From Rock Star Dreams to Lisbon Streets: Why Jim Left It All Behind for Portugal

From Rock ‘n’ Roll to a Quiet Life in Lisbon

Jim’s story begins in the bustling streets of New York, where he was born and raised. His journey as a musician took him to Boston, then to Los Angeles for 15 years, where he lived the quintessential “city of dreams” lifestyle. But life has its way of prompting change, and for Jim, that change was Portugal.

“I’ve always wanted to give my kid an adventure, and to be honest, I wanted one myself,” Jim shares, a spark of excitement in his voice. What followed was a decision to leave behind the suburban monotony of child-rearing in the U.S. for a year-long experiment in Lisbon - a move that turned into a transformative chapter in his life.

Why Portugal? A Safe and Vibrant Escape

Safety was one of the first factors that drew Jim to Portugal. “Coming from where we’re coming from, it feels good to be in a place where safety isn’t a constant worry,” he explains. Lisbon delivered on that promise and more.

“There’s something exotic and crazy about Lisbon, but it’s also safe. It’s an excellent pairing,” he adds. For families considering a move, Portugal’s reputation as one of the safest countries in the world is often a decisive factor. And for Jim, it wasn’t just about safety - it was about finding a place that could offer his family an adventure without sacrificing peace of mind.

Choosing the Right Neighborhood: Campo de Ourique, a Family-Friendly Oasis

When it came to choosing a place to live, Jim and his family settled in Campo de Ourique, a charming and family-friendly neighborhood in Lisbon. “We chose Campo de Ourique because it’s flat,” Jim explains. As a parent, he wanted his eight-year-old daughter to have an easy time exploring their surroundings without the challenge of Lisbon’s iconic hills.

Known for its vibrant local life, green spaces, and excellent schools, Campo de Ourique is often described as a “village within the city.” For Jim, the neighborhood’s flat terrain and relaxed atmosphere were perfect. “You’ve got to think about what makes day-to-day life easier, especially with kids,” he emphasizes.

Campo de Ourique offers the best of both worlds: a lively community vibe and close proximity to Lisbon’s city center. For expats with children, it’s a practical and welcoming choice.

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Adapting to Portuguese Life: When Dinner Starts at 7 PM

Of course, moving to a new country comes with its quirks. For Jim, one of the biggest adjustments was meal times. “You can’t really eat dinner at 5:30 here,” he laughs. “It sounds silly, but when you have an eight-year-old who needs to eat early, it’s a challenge.”

This cultural difference highlights an important piece of advice for would-be expats: Be prepared to adapt. Portuguese dinner times may be later than what many Americans are used to, but they also present an opportunity to embrace the local way of life. Jim admits, “It’s part of the adventure, and honestly, it’s cool to just take a break and live differently.”

A Year of Adventure: Why It’s Worth the Effort

Jim originally planned to stay in Portugal for just a year—a trial run of sorts. “Even with the complications and inconveniences, the experience has been so… what’s the word… formative,” he says, pausing thoughtfully. “It’s the kind of experience that defines you for the rest of your life.”

For families considering a move abroad, Jim’s advice is clear: “If you have the luck in your life to make it happen, just do it. It’s cool. It’s cool to get out of America, to take a breather.” The temporary nature of the initial plan gave Jim and his family the freedom to experiment, knowing they weren’t locked into a permanent decision.

What Moving to Portugal Taught Jim About Life

Beyond the logistics of relocating, Jim’s move to Portugal offered profound personal insights. “There’s something about stepping out of your comfort zone, about giving yourself—and your kids—the chance to experience something completely different,” he reflects.

Lisbon, with its mix of old-world charm and modern vibrancy, provided the perfect backdrop for this self-discovery. “It’s a place where you can reinvent yourself, where every day feels like an adventure, but in the most grounded way possible,” he explains.

Tips for Aspiring Expats: Lessons from Jim’s Journey

If Jim’s story has you daydreaming about a life in Portugal, here are some practical tips inspired by his experience:

1. Visit First, Then Decide

Jim and his family visited Lisbon before making the leap. “We visited, and we decided to do it,” he says simply. A visit can help you understand the city’s vibe, neighborhoods, and culture—essential intel for a smooth transition.

2. Prioritize Your Lifestyle Needs

For Jim, choosing a flat neighborhood in Caparica was key. Think about what matters most to your daily life, whether it’s proximity to schools, walkability, or access to public transport.

3. Embrace the Challenges

Moving abroad isn’t without its hurdles—Jim’s struggle with dinner times is a lighthearted example. But he insists it’s worth it: “The inconveniences are minor compared to the rewards.”

4. Make It an Adventure

Whether you’re moving for a year or a lifetime, treat it as an adventure. “It’s cool to just take a break, to breathe,” Jim emphasizes. Let the experience shape you in unexpected ways.

5. Safety Matters

For families, safety is often a top priority. Portugal delivers on this front, offering peace of mind alongside its cultural richness.

Why Portugal Could Be Your Next Home

Jim’s story is a testament to the transformative power of moving abroad. From his roots in New York to his current life in Lisbon, the journey has been nothing short of life-changing. Portugal, with its blend of safety, culture, and opportunity, has become a haven for Jim and his family - a place where they’ve found not just adventure, but a new sense of belonging.

If you’re considering a move to Portugal, take a page from Jim’s book: Visit, plan, and dive in. As he puts it, “If you have the chance to do it, do it. It’s cool. It’s formative. It’s an experience you’ll carry with you forever.

Ready to start your own adventure in Portugal? Book a call with moviinn here and let our experts guide you every step of the way!