Moving from Canada to Portugal – Our Personal Journey
Have you ever traveled, visited a beautiful place, and thought, ‘What would it be like to live here?’
Well, we’ve felt that way many times, but our decision to move to another country wasn’t just based on feelings.
Come, and we’ll share our story of relocating and becoming digital nomads in the beautiful land of Portugal.
The Transformative Power of Travel: Our Journey Across Continents
Since our move to Canada in 2015 from Brazil, many things changed within us. We had the opportunity to travel to numerous countries, embark on three incredible cruises, and experience adventures like hiking, camping, and backpacking. These experiences transformed our lives forever. Our thirst for exploration and the desire to travel to other places only grew stronger.
It was after a special trip to Portugal in December of 2022 that our journey took a new turn.
Canada had been a land of opportunities for us. It was a place where we could spread our wings and explore not only the vast expanse of its landscape but also the rich diversity of its people. Yet, each passing year, our hearts yearned for new horizons and experiences. We met people from around the world in Canada, and their stories of adventure and cultural exploration ignited a spark within us.
Panorama Ridge, Canada.
Our deep-rooted desire to explore the world, ignited by our shared passion for discovering its unique beauty, led us on quite the adventure, travelling across continents. We were born in Brazil, lived in Canada for nearly nine years, strolled down the bustling streets of London, sought tranquillity in Portugal, and revelled in the vibrant culture of Chicago. With each adventure, we discovered more about ourselves and deepened our connection as a couple. It’s like our perspective on life expanded, and our dreams took on a whole new shape.
Reuniting with Family and Warm Hearts
Monastery of Serra do Pilar, Vila Nova de Gaia – Portugal
Reuniting with our family after nearly five years, the pandemic of Covid, and meeting our niece for the first time in person warmed our hearts in a profound way. That’s when we realized we wanted to be closer to our family. As Bruno’s parents had already been living in Portugal, and his brother, along with our nephew and niece, resided in the UK.
The pandemic has taught us the value of family, of being near those you love. The uncertainty and separation of those times had made us appreciate the importance of being close to them. The connection we felt with our family in Portugal was something we couldn’t ignore.
As we spent time with Bruno’s parents and bonded with our niece and nephew, we couldn’t help but envision a future where family gatherings were not an annual event but a regular part of our lives. The warmth of family, the comfort of familiar faces, and the sense of belonging were things we wanted.
Falling in Love with Portugal
In addition to the strong family ties pulling us toward Europe, Portugal captured our hearts as well.
From its delicious cuisine to its pleasant weather, stunning beaches, and picturesque mountains, it’s a country of endless charm. The relatively low cost of living, combined with the possibility of keeping our remote jobs and the opportunity to explore Europe, made it an irresistible invitation.
Portugal has an allure that goes beyond the superficial. It’s not just the breathtaking coastline, the warm climate, or the rich history that draws you in. It’s the way of life, the essence of the people, and the sense of timelessness that envelops you.
When we explored the streets of Lisbon, we felt like we were walking through a living history book. The ancient cobblestone roads led us to vibrant neighbourhoods where traditional Fado music still echoed through the air. The local markets were a sensory overload, with the smell of fresh seafood, the sound of vendors haggling, and the vibrant colours of produce. Each corner was a new discovery, each interaction a warm exchange of stories and smiles.
Trams in Lisbon (Elétricos de Lisboa)
The food in Portugal is an experience in itself. We savoured the iconic pastéis de nata, indulged in succulent seafood, and sipped on the finest Vinho do Porto.
Pastéis de Nata
Fresh octopus with black rice
The charming coastal towns, with their whitewashed buildings and terracotta roofs, were a stark contrast to the urban hustle of Lisbon. The Algarve region’s dramatic cliffs, golden beaches, and crystal-clear waters made us fall in love with the idea of living near the sea. And the majestic mountains, such as the Serra da Estrela, called out to the hiker and nature enthusiast within us.
Ribeira, Porto | The most emblematic neighbourhood in Porto.
Digital Nomad Visa: Our Key to Move from Canada to Portugal
After that visit, we were ready for a change. We started researching all our options and found the perfect visa fit for our profiles: the Digital Nomad Visa.
The Digital Nomad Visa, or D8 visa, played a crucial role in facilitating our move from Canada to Portugal.
It’s a relatively new visa in Portugal that offers remote workers the opportunity to live and work in this beautiful country. It’s designed for people like us, who can continue their jobs from anywhere with an internet connection. This visa made our decision even more compelling and achievable.
We gathered all the necessary documentation, submitted our applications, and eagerly awaited approval. The excitement of this new adventure, coupled with the prospect of being closer to our family and the enchanting beauty of Portugal, fueled our determination.
Embracing the Unknown: Sharing Our Adventures in Portugal and Beyond
We’ve embarked on this journey, leaving behind the familiar and embracing the unknown. Portugal offers us the perfect mix of family, adventure, and a beautiful environment to call home. As we move forward, we’re excited to share our experiences, challenges, and successes as we settle into this new chapter of our lives.
The decision to uproot our lives, leave behind the comforts of Canada, and make Portugal our home wasn’t without its challenges. We faced the daunting task of packing up our lives, bidding farewell to friends, and adjusting to a new culture. But the promise of new experiences, the embrace of family, and the beauty of Portugal made these challenges worthwhile.
We found a home in Porto, a city that effortlessly blends history and modernity. Its bustling streets, historic neighborhoods, and vibrant culture make it an ideal place to start our new chapter.
Porto City Hall (Câmara Municipal)
The move allowed us to live life on our own terms. We could continue our work as digital nomads, all while enjoying the beauty of Portugal’s landscapes and the warmth of its people. The ability to work remotely and explore this charming country was a dream come true.
As we continue to adapt to our new surroundings, we’re also exploring the opportunities that Europe presents. Portugal’s strategic location allows us to hop on a plane or train and discover the rich of cultures, histories, and landscapes that Europe offers. The adventures are endless, and we’re eager to share them with you.
The Invitation to Explore: Starting new from Canada to Portugal
And you? Which city have you visited and thought about living in?
Sometimes, a beautiful place can become more than just a destination—it can become your home. We hope our story inspires you to take that leap and explore the world in a new way. Portugal has opened its arms to us, and we can’t wait to see where this path leads.
Monastery of Serra do Pilar, Vila Nova de Gaia – Portugal
Our journey from Canada to Portugal has been a testament to the power of planning, determination, the importance of family, and the thirst for new adventures. We invite you to follow along as we share our experiences, challenges, and the incredible moments that await us in our new home.
From the captivating streets of Porto to the beautiful beaches of the Algarve, from the traditional Fado music echoing through old neighbourhoods to the unique flavours of Portuguese cuisine, we’re here to take you on a journey through Portugal and beyond.
The world is full of beautiful places, each offering a unique opportunity for exploration and growth. If you’ve ever wondered what it would be like to call another corner of the world home, don’t hesitate to embark on your own adventure.
Stay tuned for more updates and adventures as we make Portugal our new home, embracing the culture, connecting with the people, and exploring the landscapes that make this country so special.
Porto Cathedral (Sé do Porto)
Our journey has just begun, and we can’t wait to share it with you.
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