Exactly three years ago today, we traded Scotland's misty shores for Portugal's sun-drenched landscapes. What started as a dream to escape the cold has blossomed into a vibrant new chapter in our lives. Leaving the UK was no small feat. The allure of Portugal’s warm climate, rich culture, and laid-back lifestyle was irresistible, but we will admit the reality of uprooting our lives was a little bit daunting.
We left behind friends, family, and familiar routines for a whirlwind of adjustments — a new language, a new lifestyle, a new everything! Adopting the Portuguese way of life has been transformative. We completely embrace the slower pace of life; something we found hard in the UK, and while we are working hard, we are learning to savour the little things. We are learning to live in the moment.
Our culinary journey has been a highlight. Scottish cuisine, with its hearty dishes, will always be dear to us, but Portuguese food has been an exciting adventure for our taste buds. We love the simplicity and freshness of local dishes—grilled sardines, canja (a delicious chicken broth), and, of course, piri piri. Our BBQ has never been so well used! Fresh produce and eating seasonal fruit and vegetables is a real treat.
Three years in, Portugal is no longer foreign but a place we proudly call home. We've settled in a beautiful small city between stunning beaches, and the shimmering Atlantic coast. We have acquired Ronnie, our beautiful little Renault 4 and regularly enjoy touring around the Algarve with his ´Tour de France´ horn making everyone smile.
We also have Casa Castaway, our beautiful apartment which has been a fantastic investment; and a great place to both live, and rent out. Looking back, it´s safe to say moving to Portugal was one of the best decisions we’ve ever made. The initial challenges were stepping stones to a richer, more fulfilling life.
We've learned that home is defined by experiences and relationships, not geography. Portugal has taught us to slow down, appreciate the present, and embrace change. We’re excited about the future, and for anyone considering a similar leap, our advice is simple: take the plunge. Embrace the unknown, cherish the journey, and you might find home in the most unexpected places.
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