A Family's Journey to Portugal
In early 2020, my family of three made the bold decision to move from Florida to a charming village in Central Portugal. After spending years in West Palm Beach, we embarked on a six-month adventure around Europe and fell in love with the region, eventually purchasing a home there.
Cost of Living: A Breath of Fresh Air
One of the most significant differences we noticed was the affordability of life in Portugal. Homes in our neighborhood were priced under $250,000, compared to the $363,000 median in Palm Beach County. Basic necessities such as groceries and medicine were also remarkably cheaper; we spent about $80 weekly on essentials in Portugal, compared to $150 in Florida. Dining out was similarly affordable, with meals costing around $31 in Portugal versus $50 in the US.
We found going out to eat in Portugal to be pretty affordable.
Welcoming Communities
The kindness of the Portuguese people was another pleasant surprise. Our neighbors frequently offered us fresh produce, and we were often ushered to the front of lines at stores. This warm hospitality starkly contrasted with our experiences in Florida, where distractions could lead to being cut in line.
Natural Beauty Everywhere
Driving through Portugal felt like exploring a national park, with breathtaking landscapes and abundant wildlife. The country boasts numerous nature trails, walking paths, and natural pools, making outdoor adventures easily accessible, unlike in Florida where such beauty felt less present.
A Different Rhythm of Life
We also noticed a significant shift in daily routines. Many Portuguese families dine around 8 p.m., and children often stay up until 9 p.m. or later. This was a stark contrast to our earlier schedule in the US, where dinner was typically at 6 p.m. and bedtime was enforced by 7:30 p.m..
Our move to Portugal has opened our eyes to a more affordable, kinder, and nature-rich lifestyle, making it a worthwhile adventure for our family.
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