Thomas & Lisa(38)

Lisa and I both worked full-time in Rotterdam. The kids were in daycare, we rushed from one thing to the next, and our social life consisted of hurried coffees. We asked ourselves: is this it?

Thomas works remotely as a software engineer, and Lisa is an illustrator. We had the flexibility — we just needed to find the courage. When we visited Cascais during a long holiday, we knew: this is where we want to live.

The family visa was more complex than expected. You need to prove you have enough income for the entire family. We hired an immigration lawyer, which in hindsight was the best investment.

The children attend an international school in Cascais. It was an adjustment — new language, new friends — but children are resilient. Within three months they were already speaking basic Portuguese on the playground.

What surprised us most is the quality of life. We live a 10-minute bike ride from the beach. The children play outside until dark. School meals are freshly cooked, not from packets. And us? We're calmer, happier.

Costs are comparable to Rotterdam if you include an international school. But housing is larger, food cheaper, and quality of life priceless. We haven't had a second of regret.