In this episode, I'm joined by Matt and Dawn — better known as The Unretirees — who traded their big-city grind for a brand-new life on Portugal’s Silver Coast. We talk about how they sold almost everything they owned, why the pandemic was a turning point, and what made Portugal the obvious choice (spoiler: fast-track citizenship and serious beach vibes helped).
We get into the real talk about integration challenges, why expat groups are a double-edged sword, and what you must know about taxes and healthcare before considering moving abroad. Plus, Matt and Dawn share how they’re helping other midlife adventurers turn career expertise into online income — and why starting small could be your ticket to freedom.
Takeaways:
- They downsized their entire life to chase a long-held dream of living abroad.
- Portugal stood out for its fast-track citizenship, lower cost of living, and overall safety.
- Language barriers and cultural differences are real — but kindness and persistence make all the difference.
- Expat groups can offer support but aren't a substitute for truly integrating.
- Turning midlife expertise into online income is possible — even if you don't feel like an "expert."
- Moving abroad is about running toward the life you want, not away from the one you had.
Connect with Dawn & Matt
Moving to Portugal Course (Affiliate link)
Armchair Expat is hosted by Shannon Acton, founder and Chief Bargain Hunter of Bargain Homes Abroad
- Follow on Instagram @bargainhomesabroad
- Visit our Website: https://www.bargainhomesabroad.co
- Subscribe to our E-Mail Digest
- Join for VIP Access
If you enjoyed this episode, please like, subscribe, and leave a review. It helps us reach more future expats and keep these stories coming.
If you're interested in sponsoring or partnering with Armchair Expat, please reach out to Shannon at the following email: info AT bargain-homes DOT com
Popular Podcasts
Stuff You Should Know
If you've ever wanted to know about champagne, satanism, the Stonewall Uprising, chaos theory, LSD, El Nino, true crime and Rosa Parks, then look no further. Josh and Chuck have you covered.
Dateline NBC
Current and classic episodes, featuring compelling true-crime mysteries, powerful documentaries and in-depth investigations. Follow now to get the latest episodes of Dateline NBC completely free, or subscribe to Dateline Premium for ad-free listening and exclusive bonus content: DatelinePremium.com
On Purpose with Jay Shetty
I’m Jay Shetty host of On Purpose the worlds #1 Mental Health podcast and I’m so grateful you found us. I started this podcast 5 years ago to invite you into conversations and workshops that are designed to help make you happier, healthier and more healed. I believe that when you (yes you) feel seen, heard and understood you’re able to deal with relationship struggles, work challenges and life’s ups and downs with more ease and grace. I interview experts, celebrities, thought leaders and athletes so that we can grow our mindset, build better habits and uncover a side of them we’ve never seen before. New episodes every Monday and Friday. Your support means the world to me and I don’t take it for granted — click the follow button and leave a review to help us spread the love with On Purpose. I can’t wait for you to listen to your first or 500th episode!