Last Saturday on the 11th of November it was the day of São Martinho (St. Martin's Day) The Portuguese celebrate this day by coming together to eat, drink and have fun by organizing a ´Magusto´. This involves at least roasted chestnuts, jeropiga (a sweet drink of home made brandy and grape juice), and a light wine água pé (a wine where water was added in the process), and new wine, since it is...
Going on a road trip is one of my most favorite things to do! That day, I was on my way for a meeting near the border of Spain. After 10 minutes of driving, I looked at my dashboard pointing 29 degrees Celsius and then looked down to what I was wearing. That was why I was boiling! I decided to wear jeans, socks and my boots that day, what was I thinking? The temperature was very unusual for the time of...
Portuguese Desserts When I first entered a Portuguese restaurant I had my doubts about the prepared desserts displayed in the fridge. I was used to a dessert menu with all sorts of expensive ice creams made to order, and I wondered how long these pre-made desserts were already waiting for their host. Has it been days, weeks? Do people ever order a dessert here? But now, after multiple dinner experiences,...
I walked down the path and found Jonas watering his vegetable garden accompanied by a reggae sound coming from the speakers that brings you immediately in a state of ultimate relaxation. He looked completely satisfied with his accomplishments so far and didn't seem to worry about anything. I walked a little bit around while I left Jonas doing his job, and noticed that all the plants grew significantly in...
Tool shed They welcomed me with two big smiles and greeting kisses. Taking a quick look around at the farm of Jonas and Miho, I immediately noticed the progress they made. They have been working hard on their new house in the past few weeks. The yurt is ready to live in. Setting up the yurt took 2 days of work with 5 people. Luckily, the parents and brother of Jonas came over to give them a hand. They...
Doing the work I do for Home Key Portugal I have the privilege to meet a lot of lovely people. From different countries, with different life stories and dreams, but all with the same purpose: looking for a home in Portugal. I recently met a couple that inspired me with their courage, positivism, and kindness. We are born, raised, go to college, get a job, a partner, a house, a dog/cat and/or children. That...
Moving to another country is not something you decide overnight. Especially not to a country where people speak a foreign language, have a different culture, food habits and a typical way of living. Whether you are dreaming about it, seriously looking into it, or just being curious about what expats in Portugal can expect, these Top 5 reasons will convince every soul! #1 - Blue Sky and Yellow...
Portugal is a beautiful destination and a country that can feel like home quickly, so it’s no wonder that so many choose to plan their vacations here. With plenty to offer the tourist, plenty to see and do and delicious food to eat; you can take in the culture on your next vacation to a beautiful destination. Plan your trip ahead of time, so you can make sure to visit a few different cities and see each...
That's it, here I go. Back to my home country the Netherlands for a while. Why does it feel so different this time? I used to LOVE traveling. The entire idea of moving, moving forward, seeing places, meeting people. Alone or with friends, it didn't matter, as long as I was going somewhere. The feeling of true freedom, so exciting! But this time it feels different. It feels like I'm leaving my safe house. I...
