“`html
Image courtesy of Vitor Urbano
- Vitor Urbano relocated from London to Latvia seeking a more tranquil lifestyle before the arrival of his child.
- Latvia provided enhanced job prospects for his partner and a more affordable living situation.
- Although amenities are limited, the warm community and abundant natural beauty in Latvia resonate with him.
This narrative is derived from a conversation with Vitor Urbano, a freelancer who transitioned from London to Latvia. The content has been edited for brevity and clarity.
I made the move from Sintra, Portugal, to London in 2011 on an impulse. I started my journey working in pubs to support myself.
While bartending at an eatery near Heathrow Airport, I met my girlfriend. Our connection blossomed into something special over time.
Now we enjoy a serene life together in Latvia, which I truly appreciate.
Choosing to Leave London When We Found Out About the Baby
The pivotal moment came in 2018 when we learned that my girlfriend was expecting. This prompted us to leave London before our baby arrived.
London can be overwhelming; while it offers excitement and endless options initially, after years there we felt exhausted and overworked.
The news of our impending parenthood pushed us towards seeking out a quieter environment that felt more personal and intimate.
Opting for Latvia for My Partner’s Career Growth
We had two main options: stay in Portugal or relocate to Latvia where my girlfriend hails from.
By this time, I had shifted away from bar work and was freelancing as a tech journalist. This allowed me flexibility since I could work remotely within the EU without needing additional visas.
The decision leaned towards Latvia because it would facilitate her job search post-maternity leave—she could utilize her native language rather than having to learn Portuguese. Additionally, housing costs were slightly lower in her hometown of Saldus compared to Portugal’s market rates.
Lower Housing Costs but Similar Daily Expenses Compared to London
Salaries tend to be lower in Latvia compared with those offered by companies based in London; thus if you’re employed locally here your cost of living balances out accordingly. While overall expenses are higher back home due primarily to inflated prices across various sectors like housing or transportation—Latvia presents an attractive alternative especially regarding real estate costs which are significantly less than those found within London’s competitive market landscape!
Since we’ve purchased our home outright now we’re free from rent obligations; however everyday items such as groceries remain comparably priced between both locations!
A typical monthly budget includes around 500-600 euros spent on groceries alongside utility bills averaging about 50-60 euros per month plus another 60-80 euros allocated toward fuel expenses while internet services run approximately at just 35 euros monthly!
Fewer Luxuries but A Warm Community Spirit
I don’t often miss life back home but occasionally feel nostalgic about its vibrant atmosphere filled with events galore!
When transitioning into Latvian culture one major adjustment was realizing how different Amazon operates here! After leaving bartending behind I’d also worked part-time delivering packages through them during my tenure there—but unfortunately next-day delivery isn’t available nor do they offer free shipping options either!
The UK boasts incredible cultural diversity allowing access not only high-quality cuisine spanning numerous global flavors—but sadly this isn’t quite mirrored within Latvian food offerings which tend towards traditional roots instead.
In contrast though while London’s fast-paced lifestyle provides limitless choices—from restaurants & shops all way down cinemas/shopping centers—Saldus lacks these luxuries yet still meets essential needs adequately without overwhelming excesses!
Despite initial challenges faced upon arrival positives emerged too! Contrary popular belief Eastern European cultures aren’t always cold/unwelcoming—in fact I’ve found locals incredibly friendly easing transition immensely!
My wife’s family lives nearby providing support network along side new friendships formed through learning basic Latvian phrases whilst conversing comfortably amongst English speakers alike!
Embracing Tranquility: My Life In Beautiful Nature-Rich Surroundings
Growing up surrounded by nature instilled deep appreciation within me—I fondly recall childhood days spent exploring mountains & forests filled lush greenery! Moving UK posed difficulties accessing lakes/rivers/beaches easily however residing Saldus means being enveloped by stunning landscapes daily.
Experiencing all four seasons adds charm too—even winter’s chill feels manageable thanks well-prepared infrastructure designed withstand harsh conditions unlike homes built southern climates where temperatures drop unexpectedly causing discomfort instead!
Life here moves at slower pace promoting relaxation among residents who seem less rushed/stressed overall—a stark contrast compared frenetic energy found elsewhere making raising children simpler/safe choice indeed!
For instance enrolling child sports activities proves far cheaper enabling participation five times weekly versus single option available back home costing same amount!
If You Feel Inspired To Move – Just Do It!
If something calls you somewhere else don’t hesitate—many people merely think/dream without taking action so seize opportunity when presented!
I no longer worry about providing best possible future for child—we plan stay long-term here feeling grateful every day having chosen make this leap toward new beginnings!
Source
“`
