Moving to Portugal from the UK | Why I Left London for Lisbon!

TL;DR

Exploring why I left London for a new life in Lisbon.

Transcript

Welcome back to my channel you guys this  week the video is a little bit different I know that most of you follow me for my weekly  lessons in Portuguese but I know that lots of you also follow me because you are on the brink of  starting a new life in Portugal, maybe you're still just considering it at this stage and maybe you  have questions for ... Read More

Key Insights

• The primary motivation for leaving London was the high cost of living, which made it difficult to save money and plan for the future.
• Portugal, particularly Lisbon, offers a more affordable lifestyle with cheap yet enjoyable experiences like wine, beer, and seaside trips.
• Despite rising property prices in Lisbon and Porto, countryside areas in Portugal offer more affordable property options compared to the UK or US.
• Brexit played a significant role in the decision to move, as it felt like a personal and political disconnection from the UK.
• Moving to Lisbon allowed for a fresh start and new opportunities, including meeting a future husband and building a life together.
• The cultural and lifestyle differences in Lisbon, such as less consumerism and more focus on simple pleasures, contributed to greater happiness.
• Integrating into Portuguese culture by learning the language is emphasized as crucial for feeling at home and respecting the local community.
• The channel's growth and community have provided motivation to stay in Lisbon and help others transition to life in Portugal.

Questions & Answers

Q: What was the main reason for leaving London?

The main reason for leaving London was the high cost of living, which made it nearly impossible to save money or plan for the future. The financial strain, combined with personal circumstances like friends moving away and a desire for change, prompted the decision to move to Lisbon.

Q: How does the cost of living in Lisbon compare to London?

While property prices in Lisbon have risen, making them comparable to other European cities, the overall cost of living is lower. Simple pleasures such as wine, beer, and seaside trips are affordable, and the lifestyle is less consumerist, focusing on enjoying life’s simple joys rather than material wealth.

Q: Did Brexit influence the decision to move?

Yes, Brexit significantly influenced the decision to move. It felt like a personal and political disconnection from the UK, prompting a desire to live in a place that aligned more closely with personal values. The move also provided an opportunity to embrace a European identity and distance from a government that did not reflect these values.

Q: What are the benefits of living in Lisbon?

Lisbon offers a range of benefits, including a more affordable lifestyle, a focus on enjoying simple pleasures, and a less consumerist culture. The city’s manageable size and efficient public transport system reduce commuting stress, allowing for a more relaxed and enjoyable daily life compared to London.

Q: How important is learning Portuguese for integration?

Learning Portuguese is crucial for integration into the local culture and community. It shows respect for the new home and helps in making daily life easier, boosting confidence, and fostering a sense of belonging. Language skills also enhance the overall experience of living in Portugal.

Q: What personal changes occurred after moving to Lisbon?

After moving to Lisbon, there were significant personal changes, including meeting a future husband and building a life together in a new country. The move allowed for a fresh start and new opportunities, contributing to a greater sense of happiness and fulfillment.

Q: How does the video aim to inspire others considering a move to Portugal?

The video aims to inspire others by sharing a personal story of transformation and the positive impact of moving to Lisbon. It provides practical advice on integrating into Portuguese culture and highlights the benefits of a simpler, more enjoyable lifestyle. The content encourages viewers to take the leap and start a new adventure.

Q: What resources are offered for learning Portuguese?

The video offers several resources for learning Portuguese, including a free 60-minute lesson for beginners and links to additional language learning materials. These resources are designed to help newcomers integrate into Portuguese culture and improve their language skills before and after moving to Portugal.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• The video discusses the reasons for moving from London to Lisbon, highlighting the lower cost of living and lifestyle benefits in Portugal. It emphasizes the importance of cultural integration and language learning for a successful transition.

• Personal experiences and motivations for the move are shared, including the impact of Brexit, the desire for a fresh start, and meeting a future husband in Lisbon. The video also offers resources for learning Portuguese.

• The content aims to inspire others considering a move to Portugal by sharing a personal story and providing practical advice on integrating into Portuguese culture and enjoying the simple pleasures of life in Lisbon.