Want to Move Abroad? Start here!
I'm thrilled to share my journey with you, a tale of adventure, change, and new beginnings. My name is Danielle, but most people call me DD. I'm originally from Michigan, USA, where I worked in the veterinary field. Today, I'm writing to you from my new home across the Atlantic Ocean in beautiful Portugal. Let me take you through the story of how I got here. If you don't want to read and instead watch the story, this is the best 3 mins you will spend on the internet today 😊
Traveling has always been a passion of mine. I've explored over 30 countries, mostly on my own. The idea of traveling solo came naturally to me because I wanted to visit places that weren't on anyone else's radar. So, I packed my bags and embarked on countless adventures, embracing the freedom and excitement that solo travel brings.
Among my many travels, one of the most cherished memories is a trip to Ireland with my mom. It was her first time in Europe, and we had an unforgettable time together. The Irish men were particularly enamored with her, and it was heartwarming to see how much they appreciated our mother-daughter travel duo. I was in my 30s then, and that trip remains one of my favorite travel experiences.
But my favorite day of all times would be hiking in the Tatra Mountains in Slovakia (photo above). Everything about the day was perfect and I haven't had one close to it. At that time if someone asked me "Mountains or Beach?" I would have said "Mountains all the way!" but now that I live in Portugal I'm drawn to the river and ocean of Lisbon and the surrounding area.
My love for hiking and day walks played a significant role in my decision to move to Portugal. I was captivated by the stunning trails and scenic routes, especially the Fisherman's Trail and the Camino Portuguese. Walking these paths, often with an audiobook in my ears (imagine feeling so safe you have both ear buds in ladies), brought me immense joy and a sense of peace.
As a remote worker in the veterinary field, I had the flexibility to choose where I lived. The idea of settling in Portugal grew stronger with each visit until I finally decided to take the leap. I sold everything I owned, applied for a residency visa, and moved across the Atlantic.
Moving to Portugal has been a transformative experience. The pace of life here is different—it's slower, more relaxed. I've learned to appreciate the simple pleasures, like spending hours at a café, watching the world go by. This newfound comfort in stillness has been one of the most significant changes in my life.
While much has changed since my move, there's so much more to share. In future newsletters, I'll delve deeper into the challenges and triumphs of relocating to a new country, the cultural differences, and the personal growth I've experienced.
For now, I hope this glimpse into my journey inspires you to pursue your own adventures, whether they're solo travels or bold life changes.
Thank you for being part of this journey with me. Stay tuned for more stories from Portugal!