Meet Simone Cimiluca-Radzins, an American entrepreneur and community builder who went from Santa Monica to the South of France to Lagos, all while raising a young daughter. Her story shows what happens when you trust your gut about where you're meant to be.

After building a life in the French Riviera through COVID lockdowns, Simone and her French husband visited Lisbon in January 2022. The warmth and openness they felt was undeniable. Within months, they'd packed up and moved to Lagos based on a consultation call and pure intuition, without ever visiting first.

Simone shares the reality of that first year (she didn't actually like it at first), how she went from feeling isolated to co-organizing TEDx Lagos, and why building community became central to her life here. We also tackle the complexities of being a foreigner in Portugal right now and practical ways expats can integrate and give back.

Perfect for families considering Portugal with young kids, entrepreneurs building location-independent businesses, or anyone navigating what it means to be a thoughtful expat in today's Portugal.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction: Entrepreneur, Mom, Community Builder

01:58 Life in the South of France During COVID

03:18 Having a Baby During French Lockdown

05:36 The Lisbon Trip That Changed Everything

07:09 Booking a Consultation and Choosing Lagos Sight Unseen

08:06 Landing in Lagos and the First Impressions

39:59 Words of Advice for Future Relocators

➣ CONTACT US for relocation assistanceGet on a free discovery call and we can outline how we can work with you.https://www.algarveaddicts.com/contact

Check out our Instagram @algarveaddicts - we'd love to connect with you there!

Connect with Elena: https://freedomseekerphoto.com/

Meet Elena Dimitrova, the Bulgarian marketer and photographer behind Freedom Seeker who's building a life of creative freedom in Lagos. From discovering marketing through Seth Godin's "Purple Cow" at 15 to co-organizing TEDx Lagos, Elena's journey shows what happens when you follow your intuition and let things unfold naturally.

Elena shares how she went from studying business in Bournemouth to becoming a freelancer in Portugal, why she asked strangers for advice before launching her business, and how audience-first marketing actually works in practice. You'll discover what it's like running multiple businesses under one brand: from managing marketing campaigns to hiding behind rocks to capture secret proposals at Ponta da Piedade.

We dive into the magic of TEDx Lagos (and why you should come to the next one!), the challenges of Portuguese bureaucracy, and how living near the ocean changes your entire relationship with life. Elena also reveals her favourite secret Algarve spots and why Portugal has made her feel freer than ever before.

Perfect for aspiring freelancers wondering how to start, creatives building portfolio careers, marketers who want to do it differently, or anyone curious about what life looks like when you design it around freedom instead of fitting into someone else's structure.

Chapters00:00 Introduction00:30 Meet Elena: Freedom as a Core Value01:07 Growing Up in Bulgaria with Outdoor Freedom03:48 Moving to Bournemouth and a Career in Marketing09:00 Moving to Portugal and Starting Fresh21:30 What is TEDx Lagos and Why Come?29:30 The TEDx Lagos Experience32:30 Life as a Freedom Seeker: Marketing and Photography33:34 Secret Proposals in the Algarve36:23 How Portugal Changed Elena36:51 Reconnecting with Nature in Portugal

➣ CONTACT US for relocation assistanceGet on a free discovery call and we can outline how we can work with you.https://www.algarveaddicts.com/contact

Check out our Instagram @algarveaddicts - we'd love to connect with you there!

Meet Johanne Halliday, who's living proof that sometimes the best moves happen when you stop overthinking and just go for it. After years of visiting her mum in Portugal, Jo knew the Algarve was where she wanted to be—she just didn't know how to make it work.

When her request to work remotely from Portugal was declined, Jo could've given up on the dream. Instead, when redundancies were announced, she saw her opportunity. Within months, she'd ticked off everything on her list: found somewhere to live, secured her residency (just before Brexit!), rented out her UK property, and booked her one-way ticket to Lagos.

Jo shares the practical reality of starting fresh in Portugal—from navigating the job market to discovering why Lagos has become her forever home. You'll hear about the best beach walks, her favourite local spots, why the expat community here feels different, and how she's gone from wishing her weekends would come faster to genuinely embracing every single day.

Perfect for anyone who's been dreaming about Portugal but struggling with the "how," single professionals wondering about making the move solo, or anyone who needs to hear that sometimes things just fall into place when you commit to what you really want.

➣ CONTACT US for relocation assistanceGet on a free discovery call and we can outline how we can work with you.https://www.algarveaddicts.com/contact

Check out our Instagram @algarveaddicts - we'd love to connect with you there!

Get in touch with Adam: https://hobsonschoon.com/

Meet Adam Schoon, a renowned fine art and antique specialist who's made the Algarve his home! Known for his expertise on BBC's Antiques Roadshow and his specialization in Chinese and Japanese ceramics, Adam shares his fascinating journey from family collecting traditions to becoming one of the UK's respected antique experts.

Discover how his passion for antiques began, his experiences evaluating priceless pieces on television, and why he chose Portugal as his base for continuing his work in the antique world. Adam also reveals insights into Portugal's rich antiquities heritage and the unique treasures that can be found throughout the country.

Whether you're an antique enthusiast, curious about Portugal's cultural treasures, or interested in how international experts view life in the Algarve, this conversation offers a unique perspective from someone who truly appreciates both historical artifacts and Portuguese charm.

Perfect for anyone fascinated by antiques, Portuguese culture, or the stories of international professionals who've found their home in Portugal.

Takeaways

Adam Schoon is a general valuer with a broad knowledge of antiques.

His passion for antiques was sparked by his mother's collection and his grandmother's archaeological stories.

Handling antiques provides a spiritual connection to the past.

Chinese and Japanese ceramics are his specialty, developed through years of experience.

The Antiques Roadshow has allowed him to share fascinating stories behind various objects.

He travels frequently for antique evaluations, balancing work and life in Portugal.

Portugal's community spirit and caring nature influenced his decision to move there.

The Algarve offers a mix of tranquility and development, making it a unique place to live.

Portuguese jewellery has a rich history linked to Brazil's rare stones.

Antiques in Portugal are often hidden treasures waiting to be discovered.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Antiques and Fine Art

02:49 The Journey into Antiques

05:44 Specialization in Asian Art

08:17 The Role of Media in Antiques

11:14 Life in Portugal and Its Influence

14:15 Evaluating Portuguese Antiquities

17:03 The Hidden Treasures of Portugal

➣CONTACT US for relocation assistance

Get on a free discovery call and we can outline how we can work with you.

https://www.algarveaddicts.com/contact

Check out my Instagram on / algarveaddicts - I enjoy a little bit of Insta!

#AntiquesRoadshow #BBCAntiques #FineArtExpert #ChineseCeramics #JapaneseCeramics #AntiqueSpecialist #PortugalAntiques #AlgarveLife #ExpatsInPortugal #AntiqueExpert #PortugalLiving #CulturalHeritage #PortugueseTreasures #AntiqueCollecting #FineArt #MovingToPortugal #AlgarveExperts #PortugalCulture #AntiqueAppraisal #PortugueseHistory #AlgarveAntiques #ExpertInPortugal #BBCExpert #PortugalSpecialist #CeramicsExpert

Interested in Serenity? Contact us and get more info: https://www.algarveaddicts.com/contact

Thinking about trading US life for Portuguese beach living? Meet this inspiring American couple who made Salema their permanent home and discovered that Portugal exceeded all their expectations!

From navigating the property price surge to finding the perfect healthcare solution, they share the unfiltered reality of relocating to one of the Algarve's most charming coastal towns.

Learn why they chose the western Algarve over other regions, how they handled US bank closures when moving abroad permanently, and their game-changing experience with Portugal's healthcare system. Spoiler alert: a full emergency room visit with ambulance cost just 150 euros compared to what would have been over $10,000 in the US!

This honest conversation covers everything from daily life in a small Portuguese town to building community as American expats. Plus, discover their secret to debt-free living and why they believe moving to Portugal was "the best decision they ever made."

Takeaways

Western Algarve coastal living offers dramatic cliffs and cooler ocean breezes

Property prices surged significantly between their scouting trip and actual move

Many US banks will cut off customers with foreign addresses - plan accordinglyPortuguese banking system is surprisingly efficient once you navigate the setup

Emergency healthcare costs fraction of US prices (150€ vs $10,000+ for ER visit)

Private health insurance costs far less than US equivalent even with pre-existing conditions

Community building requires effort but rewarding connections are possible

Daily life involves more driving than expected to access activities and friends

Debt-free living goal influenced their property purchase decisions significantly

Chapters

00:00 Why They Chose Salema and Western Algarve

01:22 Property Price Reality Check

02:34 Debt-Free Living Goals

03:20 Daily Life in Salema

05:10 Beach Lifestyle vs Beach Living

06:03 Local Restaurants and Amenities

07:14 US Banking Challenges When Moving Abroad

09:11 Portuguese Banking Setup Experience

11:09 Healthcare: The Serenity Solution

13:14 Private Insurance vs US Costs

15:39 Emergency Room Reality: 150€ Total

16:02 Building Community as American Expats

17:37 Best Decision They Ever Made

➣CONTACT US for relocation assistanceGet on a free discovery call and we can outline how we can work with you.https://www.algarveaddicts.com/contact

Check out my Instagram on instagram.com/algarveaddicts - I enjoy a little bit of Insta!

#SalemaPortugal #USToPortugal #AmericansInPortugal #PortugalHealthcare #AlgarveLife #WesternAlgarve #MovingToPortugal #PortugalLiving #USExpats #AmericanAbroad #PortugalCoast #AlgarveBeach #ExpatLife #PortugalRetirement #SerenityHealthcare #PortugalBanking #DebtFreeRetirement #AmericansAbroad #PortugalProperty #AlgarveExpats #BeachLivingPortugal #PortugalRealEstate #ExpatCommunity #HealthcarePortugal #PortugalLifestyle

Portugal's government has proposed significant changes to immigration and citizenship laws that could affect expats planning to move or already living in the country.

Immigration lawyer Ana Teresa Pereira joins us to explain what these proposals mean and the timeline for potential implementation.

The key proposed changes include extending citizenship eligibility from 5 to 10 years of residency for most countries (7 years for Portuguese-speaking nations), adding cultural and historical knowledge requirements beyond basic language skills, and new restrictions on family reunification processes.

However, these are still proposals requiring parliamentary approval and presidential sign-off, with a realistic timeline extending into autumn 2025.

Takeaways

Government proposed increasing citizenship residency requirement from 5 to 10 years (7 for CPLP countries)

Additional cultural and historical knowledge tests proposed beyond current A2 Portuguese requirement

Family reunification changes include 2-year residency requirement before bringing spouses

Job seeker visas proposed to be limited to highly qualified professionals only

Proposed retroactive application date of June 19th, 2025 creating uncertainty for current applicants

Laws still require parliamentary discussion, presidential approval - timeline likely autumn 2025

D7 "accompanying visa" strategy may offer alternative to family reunification challenges

Current citizenship applications taking 1-2 years to process with significant backlogs

People eligible now considering rushing applications before potential changes take effect

Citizenship for children born in Portugal would require parents to have 3 years residency

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Immigration Changes

01:57 Key Changes in Citizenship Requirements

04:49 Execution and Timeline of New Laws

09:41 Challenges in Citizenship Application Process

14:50 Impact on Family Reunification19:58 Job Seeker Visa and Other Changes

23:55 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

➣CONTACT US for relocation assistance including legal support Get on a free discovery call and we can outline how we can work with you. https://www.algarveaddicts.com/contact

Check out my Instagram on https://www.instagram.com/algarveaddicts/ - I enjoy a little bit of Insta!

#PortugalImmigration #PortugalCitizenship #PortugalVisa #ExpatsInPortugal #PortugalLaw #ImmigrationProposals #PortugalLawyer #MovingToPortugal #D7Visa #FamilyReunification #JobSeekerVisa #PortugalResidency #CitizenshipLaw #PortugalExpats #ImmigrationLawyer #PortugalLiving #ExpatLaw #PortugalLegal #ResidencyPortugal #PortugalUpdates #ImmigrationNews #PortugalPolicy #ExpatRights #LegalAdvicePortugal #PortugalGovernment

Check out Paradise Cycling Tours to explore the Algarve's countryside: https://paradise-cycling.com/

Why would someone choose the Algarve's rural countryside over its famous beaches? Meet Fiona, a UK expat who traded coastal living for the charming inland town of Alte and built a thriving cycling business in the process!

In this inspiring conversation, Fiona shares her unique journey from the UK to one of the Algarve's most authentic Portuguese towns. Discover why she chose Alte over the popular coastal destinations, the realities of renovating a Portuguese countryside property, and how she turned her passion for cycling into Paradise Cycling Tours - a successful business showcasing the Algarve's stunning landscapes.

From navigating renovations in a rural ruin to building relationships in a traditional Portuguese community, Fiona's story reveals a different side of Algarve living.

Perfect for anyone considering a move beyond the typical coastal Algarve experience or dreaming of starting their own business in Portugal's beautiful interior.

Takeaways

Alte offers a unique lifestyle away from the coast.

Community and nature are central to life in Alte.

Integration into local life enhances the experience.

Renovation projects can be rewarding but challenging.

Cycling culture is a significant aspect of the town.

Local businesses thrive on tourism and community support.

The town has a welcoming atmosphere for newcomers.

Maintaining authenticity is crucial as the town grows.

Language skills can improve integration and relationships.

Alte's charm lies in its balance of tradition and modernity.

Chapters

00:00 Life in Ulth: A Unique Choice

02:58 Community and Lifestyle in Ulth

06:07 Integration and Local Culture

09:03 The Appeal of Ulth: Nature and Development

12:03 Renovation Journey: Building a Home in Ulth

13:00 The Excitement of Renovation

13:56 Building Relationships in Business

14:56 Creating a Bike-Friendly Community

16:03 Navigating Local Relationships

16:59 Challenges and Solutions in Hospitality

17:57 Cultural Integration and Community Impact

18:59 Experiences as a Foreigner in Portugal

20:00 Balancing Tourism and Authenticity

20:53 The Legacy of Local Businesses

21:50 The Role of Bike Cafes in Community

23:01 The Importance of Community Relationships

23:56 Final Thoughts and Future Aspirations

25:37 algarve_addicts_outro.mp4

➣CONTACT US for relocation assistance Get on a free discovery call and we can outline how we can work with you. https://www.algarveaddicts.com/contact

#AlgarveCountryside #Alte #UKToPortugal #PortugalRenovation #CyclingTours #AlgarveInterior #BritishExpats #PortugalBusiness #RuralPortugal #ExpatsInPortugal #PortugalLiving #MovingToPortugal #UKExpats #AlgarveLife #PortugalEntrepreneur #CountrysideLife #ParadiseCyclingTours #AlgarveHidden #PortugalCycling #InlandAlgarve #PortugalProperty #SmallTownPortugal #AlgarveMountains #PortugalAdventure #AuthenticPortugal

Thinking about moving from the UK to Portugal but wondering about cultural integration? Join our conversation with Charlie Perring, who shares an authentic perspective on what it really takes to build a meaningful life in Portugal beyond the expat bubble.

Charlie opens up about the personal and family motivations behind their relocation, the unexpected challenges of adapting to Portuguese regulations and lifestyle, and most importantly, how to genuinely embrace Portuguese culture rather than just living as a tourist. Discover insights on building real friendships with locals, understanding Portugal's rich history, and why respecting local customs is essential for true integration.

From navigating bureaucracy to exploring Portugal's natural beauty and venturing into the broader Iberian Peninsula, this conversation reveals what separates successful long-term residents from temporary expats. Charlie's journey demonstrates that moving to Portugal isn't just about lifestyle - it's about becoming part of a community and culture with deep historical roots.

Perfect for anyone considering the move from the UK to Portugal who wants to do more than just relocate - but truly integrate and build lasting connections.

Takeaways

Charlie shares his family's long history with Portugal.

The transition from tourist to resident involves significant adjustments.

Cultural integration is essential for a fulfilling life in Portugal.

Navigating local regulations can be challenging but rewarding.

Embracing the slower pace of life in Portugal is beneficial.

Community support plays a crucial role in settling in.

Understanding local customs and practices enhances the living experience.

The importance of learning the language to connect with locals.

Living in Portugal offers a different quality of life compared to the UK.

Respecting the local way of life is key to a harmonious existence. There's a distinct difference between the tourist and resident perspective of Portugal.

Understanding the local mindset is crucial for effective communication.

Building community requires patience and genuine interest in others' stories.

Engaging in activities you love helps in meeting like-minded people.

Portugal offers much more than just beaches and golf courses.

Exploring the interior of Portugal reveals its rich history and beauty.

Walking across Portugal provides a unique perspective on its landscape.

Adventure trips can lead to unexpected discoveries and connections.

Respect for Portugal's history enhances the experience of living there.

The Templar history in Portugal is fascinating and often overlooked.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Background

03:02 Relocation to Portugal: A Family Journey

05:56 Navigating the Move: Challenges and Adjustments

09:00 Cultural Integration and Community Life

11:48 Understanding Local Regulations and Practices

15:01 Embracing the Portuguese Way of Life

24:22 Understanding Portuguese Culture and Mindset

27:42 Building Community in Portugal

32:42 Exploring Portugal's Natural Beauty and History

37:57 Adventure and Future Plans in the Iberian Peninsula

45:17 The Rich History of Portugal

➣CONTACT US for relocation assistance

Get on a free discovery call and we can outline how we can work with you.

https://www.algarveaddicts.com/contact

Check out my Instagram on /algarveaddicts - I enjoy a little bit of Insta!

#UKToPortugal #PortugalIntegration #BritishExpats #PortugalCulture #ExpatsInPortugal #PortugalLiving #MovingToPortugal #UKExpats #PortugalLifestyle #CultureShock #PortugalCommunity #ExpatsAbroad #PortugalHistory #LocalIntegration #PortugalReality #ExpatLife #PortugalAdventure #IberianPeninsula #PortugalFriendships #AuthenticPortugal