I never imagined that life would lead me to work from home in such a beautiful place like the Algarve, with the sun shining down on me every day ☀️. But here I am, living the dream I always had.
From a young age, I, Anouk van der Meer, always wanted to live in a beautiful place, work remotely, and enjoy nature. At 27, that dream has finally come true. It all started at the beginning of 2024, when I decided I needed a radical change in my life. The Netherlands will always be my home, but I felt that the world had much more to offer me. I wanted to experience new cultures, meet people from different backgrounds, and step out of my comfort zone to discover what else was out there. The idea of working remotely while living in an idyllic place seemed like a dream, but I was determined to make it happen.
After spending weeks researching remote job opportunities, I found a position as a customer service representative for bol.com, working for the ecommerce in the Dutch market. It felt almost like a calling, since I am from the Netherlands. You can check out the job listing here: Bol.com Customer Service. The role seemed perfect: I would be supporting customers, answering questions about products and services, all with the flexibility to work from anywhere with a stable internet connection. This meant I could finally live the lifestyle I had always imagined. I was excited to take on the challenge, and the Algarve offered me the ideal environment: stunning landscapes, warm climate, and a slower pace of life that was exactly what I needed.
I arrived in the Algarve with a suitcase full of dreams 🌍, my laptop in hand, and a touch of nervousness. Leaving my life in Amsterdam behind wasn't easy, but I knew this change was what I needed. At first, it was a bit overwhelming. The Portuguese language sounded melodic but unfamiliar, the culture was warm and welcoming, and the laid-back pace of life contrasted with the fast pace of Amsterdam, where everything seems to move at lightning speed. Everything felt new, from the bustling markets to the relaxed conversations on terraces that seemed to last for hours. Despite the initial culture shock, I felt welcomed from the very first moment. The people here are incredibly kind and always willing to help. The internet connection, which was one of my main concerns, turned out to be surprisingly stable, allowing me to do my job without any problems. Soon, I found myself answering customer inquiries from all over the world, all from my small apartment in the Algarve.
I decided to immerse myself in the local culture as much as possible. I started learning a few Portuguese phrases, like 'Bom dia' and 'Obrigado', which helped me get by at the supermarket or greet my neighbors. I even enrolled in Portuguese classes to better integrate and truly become part of the community. The slower pace of life also required some adjustment, but eventually, I learned to embrace it. There was something incredibly peaceful about not having to rush everywhere, and it helped me to be more present and mindful in my day-to-day life.
Living in the Algarve has also allowed me to explore other wonderful parts of Portugal. I've traveled to Lisbon several times, a vibrant city full of history, music, and a unique energy. I love getting lost in the narrow streets of Alfama, enjoying the fado music, and watching the sunset from the Santa Catarina viewpoint. I also visited Porto, a charming city with its colorful houses, the famous Dom Luis I Bridge, and of course, the delicious Port wine. Another place that stole my heart was Sintra, with its fairytale-like palaces and lush green landscapes that seem straight out of a storybook. Every corner of Portugal has something special to offer, and being able to explore it while living here has been an incredibly enriching experience.
Working from home in the Algarve has its pros and cons. On the one hand, I have the freedom to organize my time as I wish 🚀. I spend my mornings helping customers, solving issues, and answering their questions. Sometimes, while working, I can hear birds singing outside my window, which makes my workday much more pleasant. Mornings are usually calm, and I enjoy having a consistent routine that allows me to focus on my work. But when the sun is at its peak, I take a break to enjoy a coffee on a terrace with a sea view. The energy and motivation flow differently when you're surrounded by natural beauty and rich history—the crystal-clear waters and sea breeze make even the most stressful days feel a little lighter.
However, not everything is perfect. Although the internet connection is stable, sometimes I miss the efficiency and punctuality I was used to. The people of the Algarve have a more relaxed approach to life, which is refreshing but also challenging when you have to meet the high standards of a large company. There have been times when I found myself struggling with that laid-back attitude, especially when deadlines were approaching, and I needed things done quickly. Learning to balance my structured mindset with the Mediterranean lifestyle has been an enriching experience, teaching me patience and adaptability. I've come to understand that sometimes, slowing down can lead to better results.
Another challenge has been maintaining discipline while working from home. With the beach just a few steps away and the lovely weather inviting me outside, it can be tempting to put work off. I've had to create a strict schedule for myself to ensure I stay productive. But I've also learned the importance of taking breaks and allowing myself to enjoy the unique experiences that come with living in a place like the Algarve. There are afternoons when I take a short walk along the shore or sit in a café to observe daily life, and these moments have become essential for maintaining my well-being.
One of the most rewarding aspects of living in the Algarve has been the people I've met along the way 🤝. I've made friends from all over the world—expats, locals, and travelers passing through. One of my best friends here is Sofia, a local artist who has taught me so much about Portuguese culture and taken me to some of the Algarve's best-hidden spots that only the locals know about. The nights are filled with conversations under the starry sky, accompanied by music and delicious local food. Portuguese cuisine is a delight that never ceases to surprise me. I never thought I would fall in love with bacalhau or pastéis de nata, but they have become staples in my diet. The fresh ingredients, the flavors, and the warmth with which the food is prepared make every meal a memorable experience.
I also love participating in local festivals and events. The people of the Algarve know how to celebrate life, and their festivals are full of music, dancing, and laughter. I especially remember the Festa de São João, where I danced until dawn with my new friends and tasted grilled sardines while enjoying the collective joy that filled the streets. One of my favorite memories is attending a traditional village party, where I was invited by a new friend I had made. The sense of community, the joy, and the hospitality I experienced that day were unforgettable. It's moments like these that have made me fall in love with the region and its people.
This adventure has taught me that life is about much more than routines and comfort zones 😌. Working from home in a foreign country has given me a new perspective on what truly matters. I've learned to appreciate the little things: a walk on the beach at sunset, a stranger's smile, the satisfaction of helping a customer solve a problem. I've also understood the importance of flexibility—in both work and life. Moving to the Algarve was a leap into the unknown, and it has been full of surprises, both challenging and rewarding.
Living here has helped me grow in ways I never anticipated. I've become more open to change, more patient, and more willing to take risks. Every day brings something new—whether it's discovering a hidden beach, trying a new dish, or simply watching the sun dip below the horizon while the sky turns shades of pink and orange. These experiences have added a richness to my life that I wouldn't trade for anything.
I don't know how much longer I'll be here, but for now, the Algarve is my home away from home. Every day is a new opportunity to discover something new about the world and myself. If you're thinking about taking a leap and changing your life, I encourage you to do it. Sometimes, the best decisions are the ones that scare us the most. Life is too short to stay in one place, to stick to what is familiar and safe. Embrace the unknown, take a risk, and you might find yourself living a life beyond your wildest dreams.