From California to Lisbon: A Chef’s Recipe for the Perfect Expat Life

A Journey That Started with a Backpack and a Dream

Moving abroad is a life-changing experience, and for Alexandra, it all started with a summer backpacking trip to Portugal six years ago. Originally from California, she instantly fell in love with the country’s charm, food, and relaxed lifestyle. But it wasn’t until 2020, when her son was born, that she knew she wanted to make Portugal her permanent home.

Today, Alexandra is thriving as a private chef in Portugal, creating Mediterranean and Middle Eastern-inspired dishes while embracing life in Lisbon. Her story is one of passion, adaptation, and building a community in a foreign country.

From Writing to Cooking: A Career Evolution

When Alexandra first moved to Portugal, she pursued her childhood dream of becoming a writer. However, she soon realized that she wanted to be more involved in her local community. Cooking became her bridge to meeting new people, immersing herself in Portuguese culture, and traveling through food.

“Cooking was a great way to integrate myself into the community,” she shares. It allowed her to form connections with locals and expats alike, making her transition into Portuguese life much smoother.

Finding the Perfect Neighborhood

Like many new residents of Lisbon, Alexandra first settled in Lapa, a charming and historic neighborhood in the heart of the city. While she loved her time in Lisbon, her growing son needed more space, access to nature, and outdoor activities.

That’s when she moved to Oeiras, a coastal town just outside of Lisbon. Oeiras is known for its beautiful parks, proximity to the beach, and a family-friendly atmosphere, making it the perfect choice for those seeking a balanced lifestyle.

Public vs. Private Schools: Making the Right Choice

One of the biggest challenges Alexandra faced before moving was deciding on her son’s education. With experience working in private schools in Turkey, she was familiar with the international school system. However, after exploring her new neighborhood in Oeiras, she felt comfortable enrolling him in a public school.

Many expat families in Portugal grapple with this decision, but Alexandra encourages others to consider public schools as a viable option, especially in communities where integration is easy and the quality of education is strong.

A Day in the Life of an Expat Chef in Portugal

Life in Portugal offers a balance of work, family, and leisure that many expats crave. For Alexandra, a typical day looks something like this:

- Taking her son to school
- Enjoying a coffee while planning her workday
- Meeting with clients or traveling to Lisbon for private chef events
- Spending time outdoors at the beach or local parks
- Socializing with friends and family on weekends, often hiking or having picnics in Sintra, just 25 minutes from her home

This lifestyle, rich in nature, community, and good food, is a key reason why so many expats choose Portugal over other European destinations.

The Power of Community in Lisbon

For Alexandra, one of the most unexpected yet rewarding aspects of living in Portugal has been the expat community.

“I have never met such a welcoming social circle as I have in Lisbon,” she says.

Many expats are not just moving to Portugal for a short stint—they’re investing in their futures here. They are buying property, integrating into local communities, and enrolling their children in Portuguese schools. This long-term mindset fosters a strong sense of community, making Lisbon an incredibly supportive place for newcomers.

Portugal’s Universal Appeal

Alexandra’s story isn’t unique—her friends and family are constantly asking for advice on how to relocate to Portugal. Since moving three years ago, she has had a steady stream of visitors, and her house has become a revolving door for guests, including her parents, who have visited five times in just two years!

The country’s appeal lies in its affordability, safety, climate, and quality of life. It’s no surprise that more and more people from around the world are looking to make Portugal their home.

Thinking About Moving? Try Before You Commit

For those considering a move abroad, Alexandra has one crucial piece of advice: test-drive the country before making a permanent move.

“I suggest giving it at least six months. Rent out your home in your current country and come live here. Make sure it’s really what you imagined, it’s more than just the pictures you see on Instagram or the travel articles you read,” she advises.

Living in a new country comes with cultural and language barriers, and it’s essential to immerse yourself before making a long-term decision.

Why Portugal? The Final Takeaway

Portugal continues to attract expats looking for a better quality of life, strong communities, and a family-friendly environment. Whether you’re a freelancer, a remote worker, or a business owner like Alexandra, Portugal offers endless opportunities to thrive.

If you’ve ever dreamed of living in Europe, why not start with Portugal? Like Alexandra, you might just find that it’s the perfect place to build a new life.

Thinking of Moving? Let’s Make It Happen.

If Alexandra’s journey has sparked a little wanderlust in you, consider this your sign to take action. At moviinn®, we don’t just help people move, we help them thrive. From city scouting to visa assistance, from finding the perfect neighborhood to settling in like a local, we take care of everything so you can focus on what really matters: building your dream life.

Whether you’re still in the dreaming phase or already packing your bags, let’s talk. Book a call with moviinn® today, because your next great adventure starts with one conversation.

To hear Alexandra’s full story in her own words, watch her testimonial video on our YouTube channel here.