Grant and Priyanka's move to Rural Portugal
Grant and Priyanka left Sacramento, California, to work remotely from the Portuguese countryside. Now living near Coimbra, they share why they chose rural Portugal over city life, what their money gets them and the adjustments they’ve made along the way.
California, USA
Vila Nova de Poiares, Portugal
MOVED FROM
MOVED TO
RELOCATION TYPE
VISA
A note from Lewis – founder of Relocation Simplified
I started working with Grant and Priyanka a year before their intended move. They were immeditiately clear that they wanted tranquillity and more space. Starting early gave us time to explore their preferences, consider areas beyond the usual digital nomad destinations and work through the process without rushing. That led us to Vila Nova de Poiares, near Coimbra, where they’ve found the countryside lifestyle they wanted, while still having everything they need to work remotely.
Meet Grant and Priyanka
Meet Grant and Priyanka, who left the busy pace of Sacramento behind to work remotely from Portugal, looking for more space and a better quality of life.
- Why they decided to leave California
- What initially attracted them to Portugal
- Finding a better balance between work and life
02:08
Why Rural Portugal?
Rather than settle in Lisbon or Porto, Grant and Priyanka chose the countryside near Coimbra. They explain what drew them there and what surprised them.
- Choosing countryside living over the city
- Proximity to Coimbra and its amenities
- Quick integration with friendly neighbours
02:54
Cost of Living
Grant and Priyanka discuss what their money buys them in rural Portugal compared to California, from a home with an orchard to their weekly grocery shop.
- Far more space for less rent
- Grocery prices and food quality
- Comparing everyday expenses with California
00:51
The Reality of Moving Abroad
Life in the countryside hasn’t been without its surprises. Grant and Priyanka talk about the inconveniences, rainy beginnings and adjustments behind their quieter lifestyle.
- Missing the conveniences of California
- Adjusting to different routines and customs
- Their first weeks in the Portuguese countryside
02:54
“
We have so much more space here, and there’s a sense of peace that’s difficult to put a price on. It’s a completely different life from California, and exactly what we were looking for.”
Grant and Priyanka – Vila Nova de Poiares, Portugal
Working with Relocation Simplified
Grant and Priyanka discuss their experience working with me, from our initial conversation to navigating Portugal’s bureaucracy and having someone oversee the different stages of their move.
- Why our first conversation gave them confidence
- Navigating the complexities of Portuguese bureaucracy
- Having someone by their side from start to finish
01:47
Their Advice for Others
Looking back on their move from California, Grant and Priyanka share what they’d recommend to others considering Portugal and why giving yourself enough time matters.
- Why starting earlier makes such a difference
- Managing expectations around delays
- The importance of support beyond the visa process
01:07
Thinking about moving to Portugal?
If you’re exploring a similar move, I’d be happy to discuss your circumstances, the visa options available to you, and what the process would involve.
More client stories
Different people. Different journeys.
Gregorita and Mike's move to Fafe, Northern Portugal
Leaving the US behind to embrace a more active retirement and a stronger sense of community.
Susan's move to Viana do Castelo
Retiring alone in Portugal, without having visited before, and building a new life in the north.