Moving country often reveals itself not in the big decisions, but in the small, daily adjustments — how people talk, what they value, how quickly they expect life to move. For Colin Martorana, relocating to Mallorca in May 2024 was less about changing location than learning how to slow down and pay attention.

After years working on water, flood, and sea-level-rise infrastructure projects in California, the Santa Barbara–born environmental engineer moved to the island with his wife Carmen. What followed was not a reinvention, but a recalibration — of work, pace, humour, and the question of what it means to belong.

Now living in Bonanova near Portopí, Colin works in real-estate consulting focused on the rehabilitation and sustainable maintenance of Mallorca’s historic architecture and landscapes. Alongside learning Spanish, navigating Mallorcan social codes, and building community, he’s found himself thinking more deliberately about how he lives and works.

You grew up in Santa Barbara and studied environmental engineering. What shaped you early on?

I was born and raised in Santa Barbara and left for university with no clear idea of what I wanted to be — something that’s followed me most of my life. As a kid, I loved cars and building things. My room was covered in car magazine clippings, and I spent hours with Lego. Creating something tangible with my hands has always been fulfilling.

My parents were academics and environmentally conscious people. My dad eventually became a professor of American politics after a winding career, and my mother worked her entire career as a librarian at UC Santa Barbara. They came of age in the hippy era — curious, open-minded, critical thinkers — and passed on a sense of responsibility toward the world. That outlook shaped how I think about work and place.

I went on to study Environmental Engineering at UC San Diego, which gave me a practical way to engage with those values.

What did your career look like before Mallorca?

After graduating, I worked in water and wastewater infrastructure, then moved to the Bay Area to work on flood infrastructure. That eventually led me to become the first employee of a new government agency — the San Mateo County Flood and Sea Level Rise Resiliency District — focused on responding to sea-level rise, flooding, coastal erosion, and water supply challenges.

It was meaningful work, but moving to Mallorca created a rare pause in my life — space to ask where I actually wanted to go next.

How did that reflection change your direction?

That pause was the most complicated part of the move. Stepping away from an established career and asking what genuinely energises me — outside expectations — wasn’t easy.

It led me to real-estate consulting, specifically focused on rehabilitating and maintaining Mallorca’s historic architecture and landscapes. I’m drawn to working with what already exists — recognising value and character rather than demolishing and rebuilding without soul.

After a year of reflection, searching, and cold calls, I signed my first contract with a Mallorca-based company managing development strategy and operations. Seeing tangible outcomes, done sustainably, feels aligned.

Why Mallorca, and how did the move happen?

Carmen is from Mallorca, and we always knew that if our relationship continued, we’d likely end up here. In May 2024, we made the move with our two dogs, leaving behind a community we loved in the Bay Area.

We now live in Carmen’s family home in Bonanova near Portopí. My in-laws have been incredibly generous, giving us time to get established while staying close to Palma and outdoor spaces.

What has been most difficult about settling in?

There are significant cultural differences coming from the US, and language adds another layer. I’m still early in Spanish, which naturally slows integration.

Initially, I’ve built much of my community among other immigrants. Building community was a major motivator for our move, so it’s something we prioritise — though I do miss the community we left behind.

I joined a Men’s Circle last December — about 40 immigrant men building community together. We meet regularly and organise hikes, BBQs, and family gatherings. It’s been a major shift.

I’ve also met people through Spanish classes, remote-worker groups, pick-up football — and padel may be next.

And yes, I miss certain foods — some of those dishes are just goofy snacks, many of which are probably illegal here in Europe (being highly processed, and all). But other meals, like BBQ, the influence of Mexican food particularly in Southern California, and the broad array of Asian cuisines in the Bay Area are sorely missed. 

How do people in the US see Mallorca?

Most people I know aren’t very familiar with Mallorca. Ibiza has more name recognition. That said, a close friend had visited several times and spoke highly of it, so Mallorca was already on my radar — long before Carmen and I met.

Were any stereotypes confirmed?

There are broad stereotypes about Spain being slower paced and more relaxed. Coming from the Bay Area’s hustle culture, that idea was part of what attracted us — and in many ways, it holds true.

What has surprised you about people in Mallorca?

Most of the people I’ve connected with so far are immigrants, largely because of language. They all have fascinating stories about what brought them here.

As for Mallorcans, I’ve found them warm and patient, especially when I struggle through Spanish. I’ve heard that they can seem closed at first — hesitant with outsiders — but once you’re in, you’re treated like family. Having local family has helped open doors for me.

Looking at Mallorca’s history — centuries of changing rulers and external pressures — I wonder how much that shapes a protective instinct today, alongside rising tourism and living costs.

What feels most different in communication?

Humour. My sarcastic, deadpan humour doesn’t always land here. It’s a new audience, and I’m still learning the nuance.

Career and politics are also different. In the US, they often become part of identity. Here, people relate to both in a more detached way.

Why would you recommend Mallorca to others?

If you’re seeking a slower pace, access to nature, and deep cultural and historical richness, Mallorca has a lot to offer. There’s also an energy — especially among immigrants — to live more intentionally and rethink what matters.

What are you looking ahead to this year?

Welcoming our first child. Beyond that, growing into my new professional role, continuing Spanish, getting my driver’s licence, and building a lasting home and community here.

And your goal in life?

To be present. When I manage that, I trust I’m making the right decisions.