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

[@MiaHemstad]

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]

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

[@nyegreg]

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]

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

[@jeannewoods3221]

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]

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

[@michaelsix9684]

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

[@bibo3878]

@@jeannewoods3221 check out Southern Africa

[@GraceMilagros]

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]

Aww thank you so much! ♥️

[@tonyalaw8197]

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]

@@tonyalaw8197 thank you so much!! 🙏🏽

[@robertasimes8875]

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

[@pnmoura]

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.

[@MiaHemstad]

Thank you so much!!

[@ginger732]

@Pedro thank you✨

[@annechorix]

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.

[@jfjbiscaia]

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 kzbin.info/www/bejne/iqqziYlviNmLl7c

[@MiaHemstad]

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

[@josecaetano2388]

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]

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..

[@luistheserrano4785]

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]

Thank you for welcoming me!

[@robertasimes8875]

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

[@patricethomas5368]

wow this post makes me want to move today

[@jamesliyala1681]

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

[@Cobalt1520]

Nice, glad to hear you liked Portugal, just one thing: here in Portugal (and I guess everywhere in Europe) we don't "identify" as anything. Either we ARE or we ARE NOT. So if you find a black person from Portugal, he will NOT say he is "African-Portuguese" or "I identify as Black Portuguese" there is no such thing, we don't divide society by color of skin. HOWEVER, its true that due to internet, this kind of dividing categories are starting to find some ground here, imported from the US, amongst certain people. I hope that racist filth stops soon, or else we will end up having the same problems as in the US.

[@KrishnaTheDiverse]

Wonderful if that exists! Appreciate that spirit

[@dinisabreu5619]

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!

[@nekoleamber]

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

[@MiaHemstad]

Thank you, Nekole! ♥️

[@ezell7079]

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]

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

[@默-c1r]

Congratulations! I really want to leave the open air prison that the US has become. Please remember to vote from abroad when you leave though to help save the people like me who are stuck here for now.

[@MiaHemstad]

That's my goal! To keep voting, even from here!

[@angeliquemechel]

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]

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

[@user-oq3yw3ul7x]

@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]

@@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]

@@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]

@@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!

[@gloofisearch]

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

[@MiaHemstad]

Thank you!

[@toriwayne7983]

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.

[@mariusjrgensen6112]

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

[@MiaHemstad]

Thank you!!

[@koolkokujin7015]

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]

Thank you!! Good luck with everything!

[@luisvasconcelos1053]

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.

[@Pamela-travels]

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.

[@kay9din]

welcome to Portugal... just a correction, if you like our health system and that your children get a good education in a public school, you are not liberal, for the European reality... because if it depended on European liberals, you would pay the same as in the US and you would also have the same problems with weapons...

[@sierrashavon6459]

So what would a person who is in favor of affordable health care and quality education be called?

[@kay9din]

@@sierrashavon6459 By the name that is like the "boogeyman" of the Americans... Socialist/Communist... Or at most, Social Democrat, although those are on the right from the political spectrum, such as liberals, whose plans are to hand over essential services to the private, as in the US ... And that is why it is very difficult for you to achieve the objective of having these rights in the USA, because there, in the two ruling parties, there is no real right or left, only the right... 😉

[@frsrs5501]

4000 euros a month in Portugal makes you middle-high class. you can cut 2000 euros of your budget and still live a good life.

[@sbkpilot1]

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]

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.

[@melg1838]

Hi Mia! KZbin 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]

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

[@jamescalifornia2964]

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

[@MiaHemstad]

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

[@jamescalifornia2964]

@@MiaHemstad 💕Thank you...

[@deutugal]

Portuguese can not afford the 100€ and the americans can do the 275 € for sure mich easier.... Portugal is wonderful for whom who makes about average money in the country... I am sure you ar aware of that....

[@LiyaZuluM]

Yeah I have seen this on a lot of videos commenting on the cost of living being too high for native Portuguese, but all the USA expats (or immigrants) tend to continue earning in USD and so the cost of living is much more manageable. This is possibly why more young Portuguese citizens are still emigrating from Portgual, while alot more US citizens are immigrating to Portugal.

[@arturjcrebelo3275]

The only thing, please let your liberal way of think in California. We dont care about your race, your gender, your sexual orientation, your religion, your believes. Everybody is equal to our eyes, you can think what you want, dont push that on us, because Portugal is a country with a family orientation and traditional values.

[@bansmile]

Arthur Are you kidding? A liberal in the US is a social democrat/socialist in Portugal. The Conservatives in the US, at this point, are like CHEGA in Portugal

[@ritac.6342]

So true, but this chick will never understand your request as Americans are wired to be selfish and only do whatever they want, even if it hurts their host. And Portugal is already starting to lose the traditional values from our youth absorbing the values of dear USA instead of listening to their parents... situation is already that bad.

[@OurBlackUtopia]

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]

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

[@farmerthd]

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

[@MiaHemstad]

Thank you for watching!

[@sharilove6222]

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]

Thank you so much! ♥️

[@luisvasconcelos1053]

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.

[@StevSecOps]

I am trying to seriously convince my wife to move. How is the quality of the internet where you live? I work in Tech, really important for my work needs. Also, everything you mentioned are all reason why I want to move. Not getting shot and the fact that I pay $800 every two weeks for health insurance.

[@MiaHemstad]

The area I live in has cellular internet, but I live in a more vacation-type spot. There are plenty of areas with fiber internet. A lot of people who immigrate here work remotely. I talk about that and more topics in my ebook. Good luck with convincing your wife!

[@rlopesable]

Hi, portuguese here! I also work in Tech. Portugal has an extensive optical fiber network, accessible to more than 85% of residential clients. And the network is still expanding.

[@vjn2390]

@WinSlow Perhaps take a scouting trip. Ask to try it out at least for 3 years. My husband does not like change or the unknown but I think he’s now willing to try it when we retire in a few years.

[@EvanTateMusic]

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!

[@MiaHemstad]

Thank you!!

[@hjs8092]

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

[@MiaHemstad]

Obrigada!!

[@millermusicstudioofsimpson6085]

What an amazing tribute! You go girl!

[@luisvasconcelos1053]

I heard in the US news, last year around 300k Californians left US, and this year in 6 months around 170k

[@Vinc3n7]

Yes--my eyes were teary as well listening to your story. Thanks so much for your candor and for addressing some issues that are at the forefront of many decent Americans' minds. I will actually go ahead and say it: the US is in serious danger of becoming a fascist theocracy with no actual regard for the lives of ordinary citizens! The evidence is all around us and, as recent retirees, my wife and I have had our fill of anti-family, anti-child, anti-worker, anti-diversity and anti-democratic personal freedoms mentality forced down everyone's throat and cheered on by selfish, ignorant supporters who number far too many in numbers! Sorry--not meaning to vent but want to acknowledge the reasons that so many Americans like us have given up hope for any real equality during our lifetimes. Nowhere is perfect but, from all of the research that we're in the midst of doing, Portugal sounds like the place for us. With encouragement from videos like yours and others we are watching, we have decided to begin the process of being American ex-pats in Portugal. Thank you again and best of everything to you and your family!!

[@MiaHemstad]

Thank you! Good luck with your move!!!

[@crpth1]

I'll resume it. Come in peace, stay in peace. Welcome to Portugal. ;-)

[@yurlinalonso9296]

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]

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

[@patricethomas5368]

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 .

[@GinoFerreri]

Health care ina capitalist country is what it's. I lived in Europe for 10 years and live in SoCal so I've seen the discrepancy in medical services and totally understand what your talking about.

[@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]

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

[@MillionDollarFlipper]

KZbin 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]

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.

[@stevebailey2308]

I really enjoyed your story, mainly because it is from the perspective of a person of color, and I feel the same as you on so many topics that you expressed, and it is heartening to know that there is a place where you are viewed as less of a "label" and more of a Human Being. Thank You so much for sharing your story. I am leaving the U.S. as well and had assumed Europe would be similar to the U.S. in terms of the racial issues / divide that is here, and I have had enough of that, as well as the other things you discussed concerning the U.S. I purchased your guide and now feel like I have another option to explore in regards to relocating. Once again....Thank You.

[@MiaHemstad]

Thank you so much for sharing this with me and for buying my ebook! I wish you the best in your journey!

[@antoniobranco3661]

​@@MiaHemstad Funny ! If you did not say that you are a colored person I thoght that you are a very nice portuguese girl ... Be happy @

[@geawnahernandez3106]

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]

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

[@josedc9916]

That was a very good decision, move to PT, the second one, move to the Algarve.....and the kids, put them on a public school.....no private school needed in Portugal.....enjoy and desstress.....

[@ivyc6495]

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]

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

[@lovelyladyP31]

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

[@MiaHemstad]

Me too 😭🙏🏽♥️

[@m.h.s.deepanalizethebrainm6201]

Remember something, Portugal has 1 nation, 1 kind of people, America has every nation of the world.

[@Kozette007]

I left in 2021 with absolutely no plans of returning to live. Grateful for my blue privilege to leave. (Passport)

[@tnightwolf]

THERE'S A HUSBAND?... AND MASS-SHOOTINGS?! FUCK THIS! (Just joking btw XD)

[@vivianpena5041]

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]

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]

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.

[@tubular07143]

$3,000 a month for a family of 4? Does that include rent, healthcare, groceries, car, gas? What is the job market like there? Are you on a d7 visa? Are you allowed to work while on a visa? Any thoughts on bringing pets with? Thank you in advance for your advice. We are a veteran military family (originally from the O.C. in CA) and are sick of America.

[@MiaHemstad]

Hi! I answered a lot of those questions in this video and in my other video called 5 Myths about Moving to Portugal. :)

[@scotthullinger4684]

Repeat the same video, but speaking in Portuguese. I'm serious. Otherwise, you aren't very convincing -

[@Kimllg88]

You wold have benefited by learned some history of the Portuguese in Brazil..they were colonizers but unique in that they intermarried in Brazil. Which is why that country is the most combined in the world. You shoudl actually visit Brazil..It had a huge future mid centtury but has gone downhill. Nevertheless, if yo want to experience a world where race has been more or less overcome..Brazil They had slavery but it ceased around 1865.

[@crpth1]

White Portuguese here. Born in Angola, and I happen to be whiter than my blonde Norwegian wife! This to say. Yes, there's racism in Portugal. In fact there's racism everywhere. But putting things plainly. It's neither a major issue nor, surprisingly to many, nothing even close to the US really bad example. Which is in itself an aberration to the world in general. With that said my ex-wife is "mulata", which I believe you guys call "mixed" or something like that! In all honesty, the most lovely person I met in my entire life! And I'll leave at that. 🙂 Worth mention that those absolutely ridiculous American "race" tags. Thankfully didn't enter much on the Portuguese lexicon. People in Portugal are plain black, white, etc. and that's it. Sorry guys & gals no ridiculous flowery language full of bad meanings. is just plain and simple Black and White, no pun intended! Nothing of those ridiculous definitions like "African-American", Latinos and others. Each one worse than the other. Since they come loaded with falsities! Geez! How can ANY, so called civilized, country question "race" on a job application, its beyond me! US really need to learn some manners... Live happily in Portugal remembering that your "race" is no ones concern!;-)

[@NunoFerreiraX]

When you get citizenship, and have your social security discounts in order, you’ll pay only up to 5€ without any kind of insurance. That’s what most Portuguese pay to go to a public hospital or public medical center. My mother, which is 94 y/o, pays 0€. Meds, exams, are also cheap. Dentist: I pay 50 to 60€ for appointment on a private dentist.

[@MiaHemstad]

Thank you for sharing!

[@crpth1]

@@MiaHemstad - If you have LEGAL residence in Portugal. You have full access to the normal healthcare system. Like any other Portuguese. Personally I would advise you to get it ASAP. And if your economical condition allow. Had also a private insurance. That way all sides of the issue are covered. ~1600€ should be more than enough for private health insurance for a family of 4! Remember this is PORTUGAL. ;-)

[@fernandomofreita79]

Why bother with Portugal when you can live in Mexico, Malaysia, Thailand, or Vietnam which are better alternatives than Portugal. Here is why: lower cost of living. good affordable medical care no racism safe warmer climate lots to do better food warmer people. Mexico is much closer to the U.S. Consider Mexico and the other countries instead.

[@vani.portugal]

Thank you Mia. Can i send you an email? I'm portuguese and I live in Algarve and my boyfriend is from Pensilvânia. He is moving to Portugal in November. We would love to meet you.

[@ruslancitac506]

I think $4000 a month is luxurious lifestyle in Portugal. Very few Portuguese make that much. If you said you get by easily on under $2,000 a month- even so it’s still more than what locals make.

[@patricethomas5368]

I can definitely afford Portugal tm paying that now in Houston and I have to have my Sun!!!!!

[@First362]

Welcome to Portugal, Please don't California my Portugal

[@terryashley4674]

I visited Portugal two years ago. It was decent. I like seeing cars with manual transmissions. I'm retirement age, single and no kids. We're very different.

[@JDevCode]

Great tips!! I'd like to improve my English, I'm looking for someone to help me to talk!!!

[@DestiniMeshack]

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.

[@timmytwotone65]

I also have mental health issues…you had me to you said your a liberal…I wish you and your family well…People kill people, not guns…

[@fearlessfreedom6097]

The US was built on taking advantage of people, and that energy permeates every aspect of life. No respect for family life or personal time. Glad for you! And don't forget inner-city safety issues as well, there's a lot to navigate in the US.

[@austinswart5329]

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]

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

[@Diana-nv5ey]

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.

[@wendellhatcher7011]

Very good video abd is helping me choose where I want to retire or work remotely I am tired of the usa trump etc...

[@GazilionPT]

8:23 $220 for 2 E.R. visits is what we call "expensive" (I guess that was because you're not a resident or an EU citizen). When you become a resident (resident permit, registered with the SNS = NHS), you will pay like 20-25€ per visit, and that is if you don't have any sort of exemption. (Kids are exempt.) E.g., if you become a blood donor, fulfilling the minimum anual requirement (2 donations/year), all E.R. visits are free. (Maybe they charge some extra for x-rays or something, but it's like 5€...)

[@MiaHemstad]

Thank you for sharing! Yes, I was paying with no insurance. And that is still cheap to me!

[@xastephen03]

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!

[@MiaHemstad]

Thank you so much!!

[@m.h.s.deepanalizethebrainm6201]

4.000 a month is still a lot in Portugal. 1500, sounds better.

[@fearlessfreedom6097]

I can't even eat food in the United States any more unless it's from Whole Foods or Vegan

[@paulogarciadesousa]

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

[@MiaHemstad]

Obrigada! 🙏🏽

[@paulogarciadesousa]

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

[@MiaHemstad]

@@paulogarciadesousa 🤗

[@SunnyMegatron]

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!

[@MiaHemstad]

Welcome!! I'm glad you're here!

[@darlenebarrington3534]

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

[@MiaHemstad]

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

[@youngloenoe]

The country is more worried about abortion than the welfare of children and parents. It is just a different culture.

[@MiaHemstad]

A sad culture that's more focused on control than well-being.

[@angeebb3080]

That's what I am talking about civility!

[@AmericanInPortugal]

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]

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

[@k.h.7575]

5 min in,.. This sound absolutely awfull 🤕 I can't believe US is like this... So sad, so primitive ! I am from Scandinavia. Good you came to Europe! Warm welcome ❤️ 19 min in... Almost crying 😢 Gosh! Thank you for sharing

[@MiaHemstad]

Thank you! You're so kind! I appreciate your empathy. 🙏🏽

[@kelojae9812]

How do you handle being so far away from family like mom, dad, grandparents? ...Thanks for feedback, so glad you moved and found your bliss! Have an amazing day!

[@MiaHemstad]

I'm not close with all of my family members, and the ones that I am close to, we video call and plan trips to see each other, even if it's just once a year. 🤗

[@TruthBeToldIsMe]

Thank you so much for this information.

[@Hello_Pri]

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

[@MiaHemstad]

You're welcome! Thank you for watching ♥️

[@thefianceediaries7848]

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

[@MiaHemstad]

Thank you!!

[@omowaleakinbami]

Can I be your in-house graphic designer

[@orangeocean13]

did you learn portuguese before making the move? i REAAAAALLLY want to move there from the US, but I'm nervous about not knowing the language

[@MiaHemstad]

No, I didn't. I'm learning now, and I'm very much a beginner. A lot of people speak English here, especially in the major cities.

[@gabriellebeckford3520]

hey. how do you make a living in Portugal?

[@MiaHemstad]

Hi!! I'm a graphic and web designer part-time and a self-care coach part-time. My husband is a video editor and animator.

[@gabriellebeckford3520]

@@MiaHemstad thanks for answering. 🙂 So you are digital nomads? You get paid from the US but live in Portugal?

[@MiaHemstad]

@@gabriellebeckford3520 you're welcome! And yes, our clients are based in the US :)

[@UrsusHorribilis]

1) never apologize for feeling grateful for your blessings. People will troll no matter what 2)We have been brainwashed to believe it doesn’t get better than the U.S . My brother lives in Germany and I’m thinking of moving to Portugal. We’re both black Puerto Ricans. What people don’t understand is that YES, racism exists everywhere, the difference is that racists in America are heavily armed. I’ve lost friends to gun violence. Now that I have a son I can’t get out of this country fast enough.

[@MiaHemstad]

Thank you! You're right. I don't need to be sorry. I'm thankful. ♥️🙏🏽 And you're so right about the difference between racists in the US versus elsewhere. And having a child changes everything. I hope you're able to find your way out as soon as possible. Many blessings to you and your family!

[@Aviiven]

8:10 As a Portuguese citizen $220 for 2 ER trips sound EXTREMELY expensive. Also this is the first time i heard "lethal racism" that's a term i wish didn't exist, holy shit! I hope you find your happiness here :)

[@charmynandrews9971]

It currently March 28,2024. 😅I want to purchase the book and set up a conference call please.😊

[@MiaHemstad]

Hi there! Email me at [e-mail] to book a call and you can get the eBook here: www.miahemstad.com/shop/p/25-things-you-should-know-before-you-move-to-portugal-ebook

[@emanuelcamacho9316]

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

[@MiaHemstad]

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

[@blove2719]

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

[@MiaHemstad]

Thank you! Same to you!

[@ТатьянаПетрова-п3ы]

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

[@MiaHemstad]

You're welcome! I hope your dream happens!

[@dariawillis1860]

I’m thinking of moving to Portugal, where do you live?

[@MiaHemstad]

@@dariawillis1860 in the Algarve! Southern Portugal. :)

[@holikluc6056]

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

[@MiaHemstad]

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

[@BG01234_]

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]

You're welcome! Thank you for watching!

[@robertasimes8875]

You are speaking to MEEEEE. All of your concerns were and ARE verbatim that I’ve said to my husband (who is white and we live in Cali). We are all booked for Portugal in October. Beyond excited for our recon trip. 😌 My mentals are spent living here AND I’m a nurse. We are ready to gooooo.

[@MiaHemstad]

Good for you!!! Enjoy your trip!

[@Blu6556]

Why do you keep saying one year in Portugal. Is the visa only good for one year? Is there danger you will have to Leave after a year? I want to leave the USA permanently. I don’t want to live in fear of deportation.

[@MiaHemstad]

I say "one year" because that was my original, personal commitment. I would stay for one year and see if I liked it. I love it here, and so does my family, so we've been here for two years now. My temporary visa is good for 5 years.

[@elizabetejesus6575]

Hi, go visit Madeira Iland, belongs to Portugal 🇵🇹 it’s close to North of Africa , and close to Europe. The weather is spring all year, not hot not cold, perfect 🤩 and it’s beautiful mountains 🏔 Porto Santo beach sand, also Madeira has too, but it’s so much to see and do. PEOPLE THERE ARE VERY FRIENDLY AND ALSO VERY SAFETY AND SO BEAUTIFUL 😍

[@MiaHemstad]

Thanks for the recommendation! I've heard about Madeira! Can't wait to visit as soon as I can!

[@1aespa2]

this is such a great video, i am a college student from dallas studying portuguese, my dream is to live in portugal and videos from your experience as an american help me believe it’s really possible!!! obrigada por esse video 🩷deus o abençoe

[@MiaHemstad]

You can do it!!! Best of luck to you!! 🙏🏽💗

[@jacquesjourney]

Wow, these are the same reasons I want to leave the U.S

[@rickchandler2570]

Agree with you. Too much hate here in the US. I want to live in a place where people aren’t trying to harm one another.

[@mikesmith1702]

what is the extent of obesity in the Maderia?

[@browneyesgirlie91]

Hey im starting the process to move with my son to Portugal..

[@MiaHemstad]

That's awesome! I have a guide on my website and two blog posts that can help you! Go to www.miahemstad.com if you want to check it out!