5 Reasons Why I Moved from the U.S. to Portugal | Postcards from Portugal

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  • čas přidán 9. 06. 2024
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Komentáře • 478

  • @MiaHemstad
    @MiaHemstad  Před rokem

    Get my eBook: 25 Things You Should Know Before Moving to Portugal. www.miahemstad.com/shop/p/25-things-you-should-know-before-you-move-to-portugal-ebook

    • @jamesliyala1681
      @jamesliyala1681 Před rokem

      Hi dear,kindly share with me contacts for wine importers in Portugal,am in kenya and wish to relocate to Portugal,I wish to get ajob as a sales and marketing representative

  • @GraceMilagros
    @GraceMilagros Před 2 lety +89

    This brought tears to my eyes. So happy you and your family have been met with kindness and grace in Portugal. I left the US in 2013 and I can’t imagine going back now.

    • @MiaHemstad
      @MiaHemstad  Před 2 lety +1

      Aww thank you so much! ♥️

    • @tonyalaw8197
      @tonyalaw8197 Před rokem +4

      Great video! I am new on your page. But I have been living abroad since 2012 and I can't imagine going back now either. I now have a little 5 year old boy and I feel safer in the country, I'm in now. I wish you and your family all the best in your new endeavors in Portugal.

    • @MiaHemstad
      @MiaHemstad  Před rokem +1

      @@tonyalaw8197 thank you so much!! 🙏🏽

    • @robertasimes8875
      @robertasimes8875 Před rokem +2

      Oh my goodnesssss I got misty eyed too. She’s literally talking to me/my family 😣

  • @nyegreg
    @nyegreg Před rokem +53

    So glad we found your channel. Thank you for this post. I am retired law enforcement, white. For me carrying a gun was akin to a carpenter carrying a hammer, just a tool. The widespread proliferation of guns in this country scares the hell out of us both. Today there was another mass shooting in Chicago. It’s like everyday. We will be in Portugal, Spain and France next month. Our take on Europe mirrors yours. Our oldest son and his wife are a mixed race couple. We worry that one day our grandchild will become yet another dark skinned victim of the crazy right wing, including police. We have never been anywhere in Europe where we feel unsafe. And we love the Portuguese people. We so admire the decision you and your husband made to improve your life. Congratulations!

    • @MiaHemstad
      @MiaHemstad  Před rokem +2

      Thank you so much for taking the time to share this with me!! I hope you find your new home in Europe!

    • @jeannewoods3221
      @jeannewoods3221 Před rokem +3

      I am looking into moving to Portugal but I will be alone. A single 70 year old black woman. Can you share a way for us to get in touch?

    • @MiaHemstad
      @MiaHemstad  Před rokem +1

      @@jeannewoods3221 hi! I recommend joining the Facebook group called Black in Portugal. It's a great place to connect with people!

    • @michaelsix9684
      @michaelsix9684 Před rokem +2

      America is so messed up violence, drugs, crime, and politics, how did our nation become such a nightmare

    • @bibo3878
      @bibo3878 Před rokem +1

      @@jeannewoods3221 check out Southern Africa

  • @annechorix
    @annechorix Před rokem +23

    In Portugal we are always aware that elderly people, pregnant women or parents with little kids, and disable people are priority everywhere. It’s something we are taught as kids and although there will be signs of “reservado” in many areas, for us is just common sense and we will act this way regardless. I never thought this wouldn’t be a reality in other countries but thank you for sharing your experience. It’s interesting to see some of the differences.

  • @pnmoura
    @pnmoura Před rokem +26

    We, the portuguese, welcome you to Portugal. About the racism questions, unfortunately Portugal isn't free of those kind of questions, but you won't find, here, the problems that you have in the US. First and most important of all, we do not carry guns. That it's illegal in Portugal, only the police, the army, and anyone who as a job that requires protection, is allowed to carry a gun. The people who carry the money from the vans to the ATM's, they walk around with the bag full of money, and no one does anything....for us it is normal that situation. So I hope you and your family would find happiness, calmness and enjoy your life with no worries...everything will be alright. Welcome to Portugal.

  • @dinisabreu5619
    @dinisabreu5619 Před rokem +10

    Hi Mia! I’m so glad, as a Portuguese that you are loving this country♥️
    Related to the health care I can tell you that you paid all of that because it’s a private hospital here we have a free public health system and it’s open for ALL the people, doesn’t matter if you are Portuguese or not, if you are on visit or living here! You can go to any ER without paying nothing! If you need some surgery or something it’s completely free!

  • @luistheserrano4785
    @luistheserrano4785 Před 2 lety +61

    Welcome to Portugal, hopefully you find your inner peace in our country...absolutely true what you mentioned about races, in Portugal people don't understand or even grasp terms like interracial, multiracial, afro-american, First Nations, Latino, etc., all those jargons mean nothing in Portugal, people from from former portuguese colonies from Africa, Americas, Asia, etc. they're all portuguese and that's it

    • @MiaHemstad
      @MiaHemstad  Před 2 lety +4

      Thank you for welcoming me!

    • @robertasimes8875
      @robertasimes8875 Před rokem +3

      That’s so so sooo good to hear 😌. I’m excited to learn Portuguese too!

    • @patricethomas5368
      @patricethomas5368 Před rokem +2

      wow this post makes me want to move today

    • @jamesliyala1681
      @jamesliyala1681 Před rokem

      Hi,nice to read about your country,may I have your WhatsApp number,I wish to ask you few things about Portugal

  • @nekoleamber
    @nekoleamber Před 2 lety +18

    Celebrating you making a positive change for you and your family! Big love, sister! 🤍🤍🤍

  • @jfjbiscaia
    @jfjbiscaia Před 2 lety +41

    Portuguese greetings.
    I hope you find in Portugal the happiness you've always wanted, because that's the only way to live makes sense. To live here and understand what surrounds us, it is necessary to know a little about Portugal's millenary history.
    Portugal is a very old country that, due to its former colonies, has cultural influences from South America (Brazil), Africa (Angola, Mozambique, Cape Verde and Guinea Bissau), India (Goa), China (Macau) and even Arab influences due to the Arab occupation of the Iberian Peninsula for over 600 years... the tiles are of Arab influence.
    The Portuguese people over the generations also learned the lesson of life as Portugal was already the richest Empire in the world and after a 50-year dictatorship (1923-1974) it became the poorest country in Europe. Today, luckily Portugal is a modern and exciting Democracy where you can live in peace and quiet. The education of the population is high and the country's economy is growing fast. For all this I hope you fall in love with Portugal, a paradise that is now also yours. Be happy and enjoy life in Portugal.
    A big kiss and all the best.
    History of Portugal czcams.com/video/TyPXV9StXaU/video.html

    • @MiaHemstad
      @MiaHemstad  Před 2 lety +1

      Thank you for sharing! I've been learning about this, and it is fascinating and good to know!!

    • @josecaetano2388
      @josecaetano2388 Před rokem

      You're a liar
      Portugal was poor before dictatorship
      We start to be poor after the Iberia Union witch Spanish King tacke over the portuguese King. King D.Sebastiāo. hi died in the battle field in North Africa
      And Spain back then wasn't Spain was Castilla and Leon. And King D. Sebastiāo Hi didn't have any decendents
      And his uncle King Philip from Castille and Leon tacke the kingdom of Portugal and macke Iberia Union they still everything from us we star the be poor after that
      So don't be liar about. 1923. 1974. You don't know the portuguese history. Or you are one of those comunistas saed that think all the time. We still be one of the poorst countries in EU

    • @antoniobranco3661
      @antoniobranco3661 Před 6 měsíci

      E não damos o valor , nem apreciamos coisas que para nós são são habituais...
      O fim da guerra , e a democracia , fez o nosso povo , " deslizar " para o seu estado natural , e sem violência ou repressao . Salvo excepções, a maioria das pessoas são boas!
      Consequência de vivermos juntos à quase 900 anos..

  • @ezell7079
    @ezell7079 Před rokem +17

    I cried because kindness and civility were extended . So sad we have gotten accustomed to rudeness as the standard. I'm soooo happy for you and your family.. Thank you for this information 🙏 😊 Portugal was definitely on my list 👍

    • @MiaHemstad
      @MiaHemstad  Před rokem

      It is so sad! Parents and children should be supported! Society wouldn't exist without us!! Thank you for your kind comment!

  • @gloofisearch
    @gloofisearch Před 2 lety +11

    Glad you are happy with the move. My wife did some bread fresh from the ground up. We used it all during a weak, however, one last piece was left after 7 days but we had to throw it away as it got bad already. Next to the home made bread, we have some Burger buns from the store. They have been there for 3 month and still look like new, nothing happening to them. That shows you how much bad stuff we are eating when bread is OK still after 3 month!!!
    Enjoy your new live and explore Europe

  • @angeliquemechel
    @angeliquemechel Před rokem +15

    Welcome to Portugal! We moved here from Carlsbad a year ago for a lot of the reasons you mentioned. Once you are out of that place you can see that America is the richest undeveloped country on the planet full of anger and greed. There is a huge world out here with much better quality of life. I wish you and your family the best!

    • @MiaHemstad
      @MiaHemstad  Před rokem +1

      Thank you!!! I wish all the best too!! Thank you for watching my video! 🙏🏽

    • @user-oq3yw3ul7x
      @user-oq3yw3ul7x Před rokem

      @M Hi - I am in RB/Poway area & looking into working abroad in Portugal for a season! Where would be a good starter location in Portugal ? Lisbon?

    • @MiaHemstad
      @MiaHemstad  Před rokem +2

      @@user-oq3yw3ul7x yes, Lisbon! It's really easy to get around because of the metro and there's so many community events. It's more fast paced in my opinion. I'm not sure if that's an issue for you. It was for me with kids. So I chose to live outside of Lisbon for a slower life.

    • @angeliquemechel
      @angeliquemechel Před rokem +1

      @@user-oq3yw3ul7x It really depends on the lifestyle you want. You can have big city or very rural and everything in between! Just know that to have the conveniences you are used to as an American(being able to walk into a restaurant at any time of day for example) you will want Lisbon. Also, Portugal is not the land of online delivery like it is in the US.

    • @user-oq3yw3ul7x
      @user-oq3yw3ul7x Před rokem +1

      @@angeliquemechel key feedback! For my next play probably Lisbon as a starting point since I have lived in the suburbs for family reasons. Love that I can get everything in between too!

  • @geawnahernandez3106
    @geawnahernandez3106 Před 2 lety +4

    LOVE THIS VIDEO!!! Thank you for being so inspiring and also informative. All these points you've explained are so real that it's insane. Gosh, I can't wait to hear more about you life! The one on one day is so amazing. They are going to have the BEST childhood.

    • @MiaHemstad
      @MiaHemstad  Před 2 lety

      Awww thanks Geawna! Love you so much! Come visit anytime!

  • @lynna5362
    @lynna5362 Před rokem

    You are so spot on about so many things. it’s so normal for people to be caring they don’t even think about it. the food is fresh without all the toxic addictive. Love your video 💕💕

  • @farmerthd
    @farmerthd Před rokem +4

    The reasons we move are so personal, but shared as well. Really great to hear your perspective!

  • @millermusicstudioofsimpson6085

    What an amazing tribute! You go girl!

  • @thefianceediaries7848
    @thefianceediaries7848 Před rokem +1

    You just got yourself another subscriber. Thanks for being so transparent and I look forward to enjoying more of your videos!

  • @Hello_Pri
    @Hello_Pri Před 2 lety +3

    I can so relate to this in many ways. Thanks so much for sharing.

    • @MiaHemstad
      @MiaHemstad  Před 2 lety

      You're welcome! Thank you for watching ♥️

  • @mamabirdjr3194
    @mamabirdjr3194 Před rokem +1

    Thank you so much for sharing, this was so helpful!

    • @MiaHemstad
      @MiaHemstad  Před rokem

      I'm so glad!! Thanks for watching! ♥️

  • @mariusjrgensen6112
    @mariusjrgensen6112 Před 2 lety +8

    Thanks for sharing 👍 So happy for you and your family. Welcome to Europe! Best of luck from the Arctics in northern Norway ☺️

  • @koolkokujin7015
    @koolkokujin7015 Před rokem +7

    I retired from the military in 2011. I spent most of my time (more than 11 years) overseas. When I came home and started spending more time around people, it seemed like everyone was just "off"! Hard to explain.. It just feels like there is some kind of force trying to get people to kill one another. People's humanity is dwindling or non-existent! I'm moving to Portugal or Japan in the near future.
    And congratulations on making the move! Hoping you continue to live your best life wherever you go!!

    • @MiaHemstad
      @MiaHemstad  Před rokem

      Thank you!! Good luck with everything!

  • @hfkhan
    @hfkhan Před rokem

    Thank you so much for sharing your experience. Really appreciated!

  • @danams4166
    @danams4166 Před rokem

    Thank you so much for sharing! My husband and I are planning on leaving the US and Portugal is on our list. This is my first time watching- I’ll definitely look into your e book! ❤️

  • @patricethomas5368
    @patricethomas5368 Před rokem

    So glad I found this channel!!!!

  • @lovelyladyP31
    @lovelyladyP31 Před 2 lety +5

    The part about respect for mothers got me. Happy you are thriving in new ways over there.

  • @luisramos1609
    @luisramos1609 Před rokem +1

    Welcome to Portugal. We're happy to have you here.

  • @orangeocean13
    @orangeocean13 Před rokem

    also, thanks so much for your video!! very inspirational 😊

  • @melg1838
    @melg1838 Před rokem +6

    Hi Mia! CZcams just served up your channel to me and I’m so happy it did! My partner and I moved to Lisbon 1 year ago. We moved for the same reasons you did. I just want to commend you for your honesty about what life is really like in America. To put yourself on a public forum and be a truth teller is incredibly brave in these cruel and hostile times. I too was brought to tears listening to your experiences of violence so close to home. People outside of the states just don’t get it. I speak to people all the time here whose dream it is to live in the US. When I tell them my dream is to live here they are usually very confused. Lol. My partner and I vlog as well and we are currently planning our 1 year update video. We’ve been on the fence about discussing certain things but your video has given me the nudge I need to tell the truth and say what’s on my heart. You got yourself a new subscriber! ♥️

    • @MiaHemstad
      @MiaHemstad  Před rokem

      Hi Mel! Thank you so much for your kind words! And thank you for watching my video 🙏🏽😊

    • @jamescalifornia2964
      @jamescalifornia2964 Před rokem

      Have you folks had any problems with the language.. ? I believe that Portuguese is similar to Italian ... ?

    • @MiaHemstad
      @MiaHemstad  Před rokem +1

      @@jamescalifornia2964 A lot of people speak English here. Portuguese is not really like Italian, from my perspective. We are learning Portuguese though!

    • @jamescalifornia2964
      @jamescalifornia2964 Před rokem

      @@MiaHemstad 💕Thank you...

  • @xastephen03
    @xastephen03 Před rokem +3

    Excellent summary, and these are all things that we discuss enthusiastically with other immigrants and visitors here. We've lived here just over 4 years now, and still feel the differences now as much as when we first arrived. I'm glad you are also having a good experience in Portugal, and I wish you and your family continued happiness here!

  • @toriwayne7983
    @toriwayne7983 Před rokem +6

    I remember when the dream was to live in the US 💀 so thankful with everything going on I never made that move. I’m from the Caribbean and it’s not perfect but the easy living, affordable healthcare etc make it worth it.

  • @darlenebarrington3534
    @darlenebarrington3534 Před rokem +1

    Thank you for making this video. We are looking at moving to Portugal and these real life experiences are so encouraging and helpful.

    • @MiaHemstad
      @MiaHemstad  Před rokem

      I'm so glad!! Best of luck to you, Darlene!

  • @katdodd5801
    @katdodd5801 Před 11 měsíci

    It's always inspiring to hear that someone has made a decision to better their lives. Good for you!

  • @blove2719
    @blove2719 Před 21 dnem

    Great video, brought happy tears to my eyes! Thanks for sharing! Take care and stay well!

  • @margottomasik2108
    @margottomasik2108 Před 2 lety +2

    I am so happy for you and your family.

  • @antonio.mineiro
    @antonio.mineiro Před rokem

    All the best for you and family! Welcome "home" 😊

  • @suebowman7258
    @suebowman7258 Před 2 lety +1

    Excellent video! I agree with all 5 reasons!!!

  • @alignedinfaith
    @alignedinfaith Před rokem +1

    Thanks so much for making this video. It’s hard to find info about moving there with a young family (most people are retired or kidless lol). So glad to hear you’ve had a good experience and hoping we can make the move soon too.

    • @MiaHemstad
      @MiaHemstad  Před rokem

      I felt the same when I was looking for info!! I'm glad you found my video. Good luck with everything!!

  • @donlang2661
    @donlang2661 Před rokem +1

    Thanks for this video. I visited Portugal for the first time during the holidays last year ('21) and fell in love. Now I'm investigating what it's gonna take to relocate there when I retire in a few years.

  • @antoniodefreitas2957
    @antoniodefreitas2957 Před rokem

    Wishing you and your family all the best.

    • @MiaHemstad
      @MiaHemstad  Před rokem

      Thank you so much! That's so kind!!

  • @MelissaC269
    @MelissaC269 Před rokem

    this is great. Thank you for sharing.

  • @lilithswonderlust4travel920

    This is so awesome, I’m so happy that you guys have found your new home in Portugal 🇵🇹 My hope is to one day visit and enjoy the beauty of Portugal. Stay blessed 😊

  • @paulor9086
    @paulor9086 Před rokem

    Excellent choice. Enjoy Portugal , you and your family deserve the best.

  • @EvanTateMusic
    @EvanTateMusic Před rokem +4

    Kudos to you for leaving the US! I left the US (NYC) over 30 years ago. I originally wasn't intending to be away for so long, but I'm very comfortable in Europe (I live in Germany). I discovered I was "recovering" from the US! I've been to Portugal on vacation and I just LOVE the vibe (more than I do in Spain)! Peace to you and your family!

  • @9575Pizza
    @9575Pizza Před rokem

    You are so incredibly adorable!
    thank you for being open about your mental health care.
    im seriously looking at moving out of here!!!

    • @MiaHemstad
      @MiaHemstad  Před rokem

      Aww thank you! 🤗 I wish you luck! It's worth it!

  • @OurBlackUtopia
    @OurBlackUtopia Před 2 lety +18

    One of our clients said that she was diagnosed with PTSD after all of the crap is going on in the US. I think we all, especially BiPOC folks are suffering from PTSD. We had to get out too and we're trying to let everyone that we know that you do not have to stay in the US if you do not want to. There's a big world out there - discover it. We're in Almada Portugal right now trying to figure out if this will be our next 'home'. Thanks for sharing.

    • @MiaHemstad
      @MiaHemstad  Před 2 lety +1

      ♥️🙏🏽 so glad y'all are out. Hope you find your next home too!

  • @alfig001
    @alfig001 Před rokem

    Great video!

  • @sabrinamadison8769
    @sabrinamadison8769 Před rokem

    Omg.I love your channel. So much good information. I completely understand your reasons for leaving. As a mother I am completely scared all the time. I wish you and your family the best.

    • @MiaHemstad
      @MiaHemstad  Před rokem

      I am so sorry that you feel scared every day. That's how I felt too. You're not alone in that feeling, and it's so wrong that you have to live that way. Thank you for your kind comment.💗

  • @Diana-nv5ey
    @Diana-nv5ey Před rokem +1

    Thank you for this information. My husband and I have been entertaining the idea of moving to Portugal. We also live in south OC and can relate to the reasons why you moved out of CA.

  • @sagmahi
    @sagmahi Před rokem

    I'm so happy to have found your channel. I truly enjoyed this video and for all the reasons above (and maybe a couple more) I want to move to Portugal. I'm planning a visit in the fall to scout out some cities / neighborhoods. I would love to live in the Algarve, too....it sounds delightful. I'm also so happy you and your family have found tranquility and ease of living in Portugal.

    • @MiaHemstad
      @MiaHemstad  Před rokem

      Aww thanks so much!! Good luck to you!!

  • @SunnyMegatron
    @SunnyMegatron Před rokem +1

    Thank you for this video! We're (me, spouse, 2 adult kids) just starting the process of relocating to Portugal (Sao Miguel) for many of the reasons you cited. Racism, healthcare, cost of living, ease of life/slower pace, etc. The food is a big one too -- I've become allergic to a chemical that's in almost all US processed foods & it's really difficult. Subscribed! Looking forward to learning from you!

  • @davidmartinspresents
    @davidmartinspresents Před rokem

    Congratulations on your move to Portugal! I will be moving there in the next four years. 👍

    • @MiaHemstad
      @MiaHemstad  Před rokem

      Thank you! Good luck with everything!

  • @yurlinalonso9296
    @yurlinalonso9296 Před rokem +4

    Thank you for this video and the information 😊. We’re a family of 8 and are in the process of moving to Portugal. I can’t wait to leave USA and find peace and safety for our family 🙏. God bless you and your family and thank you again for being an inspiration for other families.

    • @MiaHemstad
      @MiaHemstad  Před rokem

      Aww wow, you're so welcome! Thank you for watching! Good luck to you!

    • @patricethomas5368
      @patricethomas5368 Před rokem

      Me and my family are considering the same, just so nervous about the process. Will be flying to Portugal next year for my first visit .

  • @daniellegreene6674
    @daniellegreene6674 Před rokem

    Im so happy I came across your channel! I studied abroad in Portugal 6 years ago and have been considering moving there now that we are growing our family. Everything you said about your experience living in California resonates with me as I have had to endure many of them myself while living here for about 10 years. Thanks for sharing with us!

    • @MiaHemstad
      @MiaHemstad  Před rokem +1

      Thank you for watching! I'm glad you found my channel!! I hope you're able to make the move happen!

  • @3dycham
    @3dycham Před rokem

    Bless you Mia stay positive

  • @sbkpilot1
    @sbkpilot1 Před 2 lety +7

    my friend spent 2 hours in the ER after experiencing pain in his chest and was billed $9000 for just a few checks including a CAT scan. He was fine in the end but insurance paid only partly, he still had to pay $2K which is insane!!
    I'm also from Costa Mesa originally btw!!

    • @MiaHemstad
      @MiaHemstad  Před 2 lety

      That's insane. Yeah, I'm still paying for hospital bills from an ER visit I had in the US. It was for a couple of tests, but yeah the costs can set you back a lot...or worse, keep you from getting the care you need.

  • @paulogarciadesousa
    @paulogarciadesousa Před 2 lety +4

    It’s good to know you’ve found a home for your family, and are in the process of mending. Bem-vindos!

    • @MiaHemstad
      @MiaHemstad  Před 2 lety +1

      Obrigada! 🙏🏽

    • @paulogarciadesousa
      @paulogarciadesousa Před 2 lety

      @@MiaHemstad, de nada! And do ignore the people who presume to speak for the other 10 million Portuguese. They don’t.

    • @MiaHemstad
      @MiaHemstad  Před 2 lety

      @@paulogarciadesousa 🤗

  • @lino5290
    @lino5290 Před rokem

    Welcome to this small but very varied country, both in terms of landscapes, climate and its people. Enjoy what good we have here and also contribute your part. And please be happy. Hugs from Porto.

  • @toyshiajohnson8604
    @toyshiajohnson8604 Před rokem

    Thanks for sharing 😊

  • @mariosousa2729
    @mariosousa2729 Před rokem

    Good luck in the Portugal 🇵🇹 for you and your family 👪 ❤❤❤❤❤❤

  • @emanuelcamacho9316
    @emanuelcamacho9316 Před 2 lety +2

    Welcome Mia I hope you like our humble country and I hope you are very happy💕😊

    • @MiaHemstad
      @MiaHemstad  Před 2 lety

      Your country is amazing, and I am so grateful to be here! Thank you!

  • @AmericanInPortugal
    @AmericanInPortugal Před 8 měsíci

    I moved from California over 6 years ago and am still loving it. I live in the south (the Algarve) and the beaches and warm weather are similar to CA but with the charm and culture of Portugal and ease of travel around Europe. Enjoy the lovely people and kind communities in the sweet towns.

    • @MiaHemstad
      @MiaHemstad  Před 8 měsíci

      Yes!! Hi there! I've watched some of your videos. Thanks for your comment and well wishes! ☺️ same to you!

  • @ivyc6495
    @ivyc6495 Před rokem +4

    Thanks so much for this video! Me and my husband also have been considering leaving the US. I live in Arizona and I don’t feel safe. My children have dealt with stuff in school and they are ready to leave as well. So that is what is driving me to leave and focus on our family’s well being. God Bless!

    • @MiaHemstad
      @MiaHemstad  Před rokem

      Hi Ivy!! Thanks for watching! I wish you all the best for you and your family!

  • @user-nn4ek5ez9y
    @user-nn4ek5ez9y Před 3 měsíci

    Thank you for sharing your experience! Living in Portugal is my dream ❤

    • @MiaHemstad
      @MiaHemstad  Před 3 měsíci

      You're welcome! I hope your dream happens!

  • @denysunshine9752
    @denysunshine9752 Před 11 měsíci

    wow good video 😊 You have me thinking about moving❤

  • @GLCS19651106VC
    @GLCS19651106VC Před rokem

    Thank you!

    • @MiaHemstad
      @MiaHemstad  Před rokem

      You're so welcome! Thank YOU for watching!

  • @sheldonfields8834
    @sheldonfields8834 Před rokem

    Thank you for bein so candid and sharing your story. I totally understanding the feeling safe issues you discussed. Did you ever visit Portugal before moving there?

    • @MiaHemstad
      @MiaHemstad  Před rokem +1

      You're welcome! Thank you for watching, Sheldon. I did not visit beforehand. I couldn't afford twice the airfare. So I did my research and hoped for the best.

  • @hjs8092
    @hjs8092 Před rokem +3

    Welcome to our country ❤️🇵🇹!
    I hope you may achieve the happiness you look for!!
    Regards from Porto.

  • @tatianaferreira5998
    @tatianaferreira5998 Před rokem

    Welcome to Portugal. I hope you'll be happy here. 😊

  • @everythingtez
    @everythingtez Před rokem

    I enjoyed your video. I'm in the process now to move to Portugal.

    • @MiaHemstad
      @MiaHemstad  Před rokem +1

      Thank you for watching! Best of luck to you! 🤗

  • @anthonybutler3157
    @anthonybutler3157 Před rokem

    Great video. My wife and I share your reasons. We have been here in portugal for 4 years. Though an adjustment it has definitely been worth it. Keep on your journey in this welcoming country

  • @julienalexander6113
    @julienalexander6113 Před rokem +1

    Thank you for your story. I, myself is looking to get the hell up out of here. Either Spain or Portugal. So, I'm currently working on that. Glad I found this channel becuase I've felt the same way for a very long time.

  • @MillionDollarFlipper
    @MillionDollarFlipper Před rokem +1

    CZcams had your video at the TOP of my home page Recommended videos and I now know why. It's awesome! THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU for this video! We are headed to Portugal from Los Angeles later this year to check out where we'd want to live in the country. I have two children close to the same age as yours and hearing you talk about safety and the racist stuff that goes on here was soooo appreciated. I'm subscribing to your channel right now and I'm going to go watch and like more of your videos. The one question I have for you right now is do you speak Portuguese or was all of the interactions you had with doctors and others you mentioned in your video in English? Thanks again.

    • @MiaHemstad
      @MiaHemstad  Před rokem

      Hey!! Thanks for being here! I appreciate all the support and good vibes! To answer your question, 90% of my interactions are in English, including the ones at the doctor/hospital. I do not speak Portuguese, but I am learning.

  • @CTN404
    @CTN404 Před rokem

    I been thinking about this move for a long time

  • @Pamela-travels
    @Pamela-travels Před rokem +5

    Thanks for sharing your life there and even the struggles here in US. I am white but I am certainly aware of the extreme racism that black people face daily in this country ! Glad you found a nice safe place for your family.

  • @austinswart5329
    @austinswart5329 Před 2 lety +3

    I am so happy I found your video! You gave such great info! I am absolutely going to move to Portugal in a few years. What do you do for working? I am planning on owning a business, but it would be interesting to hear what you do to support yourself?

    • @MiaHemstad
      @MiaHemstad  Před 2 lety

      I work for myself! I'm a self-care coach and a website designer. Thank you for watching my video!

  • @sappir26
    @sappir26 Před 2 lety +2

    My dream is to move to Portugal but I just need to convince my family. This video will hopefully help. Thanks for sharing you wonderful experience.

    • @MiaHemstad
      @MiaHemstad  Před 2 lety +1

      You're so welcome!

    • @luisvasconcelos1053
      @luisvasconcelos1053 Před 2 lety +1

      Make sure to visit before you move, also will be new laws, making moving more difficult, Golden Visas don't work for Lisbon and Porto anymore

  • @sharilove6222
    @sharilove6222 Před 2 lety +6

    I am so very sorry for what you have been through in America. No one should have to experience hate or discrimination based on their race. I hope Portugal treats you and your family with the love, kindness and respect you deserve. Maybe we will see you there in 2023 when we move.

    • @MiaHemstad
      @MiaHemstad  Před 2 lety

      Thank you so much! ♥️

    • @luisvasconcelos1053
      @luisvasconcelos1053 Před 2 lety +1

      In Europe there's only one race humans, the discrimination based on the skin color doesn't make sense, Portuguese are white people but their color skin can be more dark than yours because the natural sun tan. Portugal isn't perfect you may find some issues but nothing compared to US.

  • @JC-ti4kn
    @JC-ti4kn Před rokem

    👋🏽 your channel just popped up on my feed and I’m glad it did as Portugal is now on my mind as the next place to live ( the PNW is getting even more expensive!)
    New subbie!

    • @MiaHemstad
      @MiaHemstad  Před rokem

      Thank you!!

    • @JC-ti4kn
      @JC-ti4kn Před rokem

      @@MiaHemstad what’s the weather like in November / December compared to US West Coast?
      Is December more of a rainy season?

    • @MiaHemstad
      @MiaHemstad  Před rokem

      @@JC-ti4kn I haven't been here in November yet, but I'm sure you could do a quick search on it! I've heard it's similar to San Francisco

  • @tiffany_124
    @tiffany_124 Před rokem

    I visited Lisbon for my birthday and completely fell in love.

  • @luisvasconcelos1053
    @luisvasconcelos1053 Před 2 lety +3

    If you have curiosity you can read online, there's a English version. Portugal is an old country with a constitution from 1976, US is a young country with a old constitution, most of the laws don't make sense nowadays. In Europe people is the most important thing, US is money.

  • @crystaltharrell
    @crystaltharrell Před rokem +1

    I am in the US now. I lived in Bali for some months and couldn't help but notice how my mental health changed once I came back. I came across your channel because I am in the process of looking for a new apartment out of the States. Thank you for this advice!

    • @MiaHemstad
      @MiaHemstad  Před rokem

      You're so welcome!!! Good luck with everything!

  • @Bessintheworld2
    @Bessintheworld2 Před rokem

    I can't wait to move to Portugal. 😀😀

  • @strattg
    @strattg Před rokem

    I’m doing research on Portugal and noticed you grew up in Guam. I’m from Guam as well and still here. Thank you for your video. I hope to visit a friend who lives there next year.

    • @MiaHemstad
      @MiaHemstad  Před rokem

      Hafa Adai! Thanks for sharing! Best of luck with your travels, Burt!

  • @expeditionconfidential8853

    Wow! Thank you for this video. Our stories are so similar. We are also from Cali and also so grateful to be immigrating to Portugal. We want to leave all of The U.S. behind and just marinate in Portugal and all the wonderful amazing that it has to offer, as soon as our Visa's arrive. It's not about Portugal being perfect.....it's about the fact that I know it's safer, the food is better quality, it's a much healthier environment all-around. We simply cannot wait.

    • @MiaHemstad
      @MiaHemstad  Před rokem

      Good for you!! And thank you for watching! 🙏🏽

  • @vivianpena5041
    @vivianpena5041 Před rokem +4

    Your video made me cry of how terrible things are here in the US but absolutely happy for you and your family to have taken this big step! I'm also a mother of two, and a woman of color living in Los Angeles. My parents immigrated to the US to give me a better future but now I find myself looking to give my children a better future and possibly get out of here. I just need to convince my husband. Thank you so much for sharing your experience, please keep making more similar videos!

    • @MiaHemstad
      @MiaHemstad  Před rokem

      I feel you and I see you!! Thank you for watching! I'm going to do my best to keep making these videos!

    • @boramy_anaya606
      @boramy_anaya606 Před rokem

      This was a great video. We are in the same boat. We'd decided to make the move after 3 years of contemplating. A few weeks ago, we had made the decision to go through with it. My parents also immigrated here for a better life but it's no longer the case for my kids. We should have done it sooner but never too late to make a change. This video really reaffirmed our decision.

  • @kaysha
    @kaysha Před rokem

    I moved here 10 years ago from Paris, France.
    Welcome home

  • @DonMaggie
    @DonMaggie Před rokem +1

    Thank you for this. You inspired this Los Angeleno for sure. It’s sad that so many of us feel the need to do this in our current situation.

    • @MiaHemstad
      @MiaHemstad  Před rokem +1

      It is sad. I feel you. I'm happy to be in Portugal, but I also feel occasional grief for having to leave. It's not easy to move to a country where you don't have citizenship. I'm grateful for the opportunity, but it's still challenging. Best of luck to you!

  • @BasicBeachCommunity1
    @BasicBeachCommunity1 Před rokem

    yeah I grew up in Orange county also.. I'm looking Portugal for the future maybe 🌊

  • @faithokpana6742
    @faithokpana6742 Před 2 měsíci

    Thank you

  • @BG01234_
    @BG01234_ Před rokem +1

    I am considering moving to Portugal in a few years. Thank you for touching base on psychiatry in Portugal. One of my big concerns is transferring my medication.

    • @MiaHemstad
      @MiaHemstad  Před rokem

      You're welcome! Thank you for watching!

  • @anamatias6215
    @anamatias6215 Před rokem

    Hi, also in Portugal the tax we pay over food is up if you buy goods with sugar. If you drink a coca-cola ar a restaurant you pay 23% tax but if you drink a natural juice you pay 13% tax.

  • @justicevibes1252
    @justicevibes1252 Před rokem

    I'm so happy that things have been great for you and your family! That's also awesome how kind and respectful ppl in Portugal are. I'm Portuguese and lived there for a short while as a kid. I lived in the U.S. for majority of my life and I really miss Portugal. I've been thinking about moving. Thank you for this video.

    • @MiaHemstad
      @MiaHemstad  Před rokem +1

      Awww thank you for your comment!! 💗🙏🏽 And I appreciate you watching!

    • @justicevibes1252
      @justicevibes1252 Před rokem

      @@MiaHemstad of course!! I hope it only keeps getting better for you!! 🇵🇹💚✨

    • @MiaHemstad
      @MiaHemstad  Před rokem +1

      @@justicevibes1252 🥰🥰🥰🥰

    • @justicevibes1252
      @justicevibes1252 Před rokem

      ​​@@MiaHemstad aw I loved your video and your vibe!!! Eu tenho saudades de Portugal. I'm from Óbidos 🇵🇹

    • @MiaHemstad
      @MiaHemstad  Před rokem +1

      @@justicevibes1252 it's really such an incredible country! You're fortunate to be from here!

  • @holikluc6056
    @holikluc6056 Před 7 měsíci

    Hi, thank you for a lovely video. Do you have any experience with day cares in Portugal?

    • @MiaHemstad
      @MiaHemstad  Před 7 měsíci

      Hi! No, I don't. Both my kids are in school. Sorry! And best of luck!

  • @rotate14
    @rotate14 Před 2 lety

    A very warm welcome to my Portugal. Now my home is your home. And yes we give a great deal of importance family and friends... you'll get used to 5-hour lunches, which turns to night and dinner... just because we can.

    • @MiaHemstad
      @MiaHemstad  Před 2 lety

      Obrigada! I'm grateful to be here 🙏🏽

  • @89goddessgirl
    @89goddessgirl Před rokem

    We just spent the summer (6 weeks in England). I’m from Indiana, US. The point you touched on are the same things that remind me of England. Almost everyone is nice, the food is different, and it’s family friendly. We were also excited to go through the family line at the airport. We definitely learned our lesson with the food having no preservatives. I’m glad you enjoyed it, hopefully we can move one day. I don’t think people from other countries get it. Even the water was better in England. It’s just so hard to get a visa. Maybe I’ll look into Portugal

    • @MiaHemstad
      @MiaHemstad  Před rokem

      Thank you for sharing, Rachelle! I hope to visit England soon! I appreciate you sharing your experience. :) I hope you can get a visa and move to a country that works for you!

  • @jaimerodrigues7427
    @jaimerodrigues7427 Před rokem

    apreciate what you said about us here in Portugal ........WE are not perfect we have a lot of negative points but the way we receice foreigners and make them feel confortable are unik(you never felt the real way how a family can receive in their home) .....thx for your words i wish the best in life for you all!!!!!hug from Lisbon

  • @curtavidawithme
    @curtavidawithme Před rokem

    bemvinda a Portugal

  • @sarahmartin9370
    @sarahmartin9370 Před 2 lety +2

    Very good video! Loved it. I am alresdy sold on Portugal, just waiting to figure out a way to make it happen professionally but it will come! Where are you located in the Algarve? It is one of the area (Lagos mostly) my family is looking at (for whenever we figure how to make it happen 😂). And how did you decide on Algarve vs Lisbon and other area? (We aren't city people so it will be Algarve or Silver for us)

    • @MiaHemstad
      @MiaHemstad  Před 2 lety +1

      Thank you for watching! Good luck preparing for your move! I'm not comfortable sharing where I live in the Algarve region just yet! If book a call with me I can tell you more. There were so many factors that went into my husband and my decision to pick this region over others! Maybe it'll be a future video!

    • @sarahmartin9370
      @sarahmartin9370 Před 2 lety

      @@MiaHemstad completely understand! Happy you love it! Your townhouse sounds dreamy and makes me rethink my no town house policy 😂.

    • @MiaHemstad
      @MiaHemstad  Před 2 lety

      @@sarahmartin9370 Moving here has made me rethink everything!

  • @DestiniMeshack
    @DestiniMeshack Před 11 měsíci

    Totally understand this. I lived in Laguna and had major anxiety and dealt with similar issues 😢. My husband and I are moving to Portugal in November let’s be friends.

  • @Christina.Takahashi
    @Christina.Takahashi Před rokem

    Hi Mia! I am from Guam too and currently living in Hawaii! My husband and I are thinking about moving to Portugal in the future. I wish I can drop everything and go asap. Thank you for the information!

    • @MiaHemstad
      @MiaHemstad  Před rokem

      Hafa Adai, Christina! Thanks for watching! Best of luck to you!