As the year winds down and the clock ticks towards New Year’s, I find myself reflecting on what has undoubtedly been one of the most transformative years of my life. A rollercoaster of emotions, decisions, and milestones, each step has nudged me closer to a dream I’ve cherished for what feels like an eternity.
This was the year I made some of the biggest decisions of my life. The apartment in the Netherlands—my home for so many years—is officially sold. (Cue a celebratory yay!) While that chapter is now firmly closed, the memories and the comfort it provided will always hold a special place in my heart. That said, I won’t deny I’m also rather relieved to leave it behind. It’s been the backdrop to many highs but also its fair share of lows.
Now, I’m ready to step into something entirely new—something deeply personal and utterly thrilling: my next adventure in Portugal. Am I terrified? Absolutely. Excited? Even more so. It’s a heady mix of emotions, but isn’t that what makes life interesting?
Looking Back on a Year of Change
2024 has been a year of goodbyes, preparations, and bold new plans. Selling the apartment wasn’t just a practical step; it was a symbolic one—a final bow to the life I built in the Netherlands and the opening act of something entirely new, set against a completely different backdrop. The process was far from easy, filled with the expected stress of paperwork, decisions, logistics, and, of course, the occasional bout of doubt. Then there were the bittersweet emotions that inevitably come with leaving behind the familiar.
Yet, despite the challenges, there’s been a quiet excitement bubbling beneath the surface. Behind the scenes, I’ve been working on something that feels like a calling—a long-lost dream from 20 years ago, now reappearing as if it had been patiently waiting for me. This dream has found its home in the heart of Portugal.
It’s a project for 2025 that combines everything I hold dear: hosting, creating a space where people can feel truly at home, and embracing a simpler, more connected way of life. It’s thrilling, a little terrifying, and deeply, wonderfully personal.
Looking Ahead to 2025
As the New Year approaches, I find myself caught in a whirlwind of emotions: excitement, nervousness, and overwhelming gratitude.And then there’s the warm embrace of friends who cheer me on, wishing me well as I step into this new adventure.
2025 will be the year many of these dreams begin to take shape. There’s still so much to do—finalising details, tackling the logistics of moving, and preparing everything for this next chapter. But if 2024 has taught me anything, it’s that while change is challenging and a touch terrifying, it’s also wildly invigorating. Letting go may be scary, but it’s the only way to make room for growth and possibility.
I can already picture the small moments of joy ahead: welcoming friends to my new home, creating and sharing memories under the warm Portuguese sun, and, naturally, raising a glass of wine to celebrate it all. Good food, good company, and the chance to share my experiences of living under the vast, beautiful Portuguese sky—what more could I ask for?
Closing the year with gratitude
As I sit here reflecting on the past twelve months, I feel an overwhelming sense of gratitude and anticipation for what lies ahead. Gratitude for the people who’ve supported me on this journey, for the opportunities that have appeared, and for the courage to follow my heart (yes, this is a shoutout to you, Lady I. and Miss M.), even when the path wasn’t entirely clear.
So here’s to 2024—a year of goodbyes and brave new beginnings. And here’s to 2025—a year of dreams taking flight, challenges embraced, and a fresh start in a place that already feels like home.
To everyone who has been part of this journey so far, thank you. And to those who will join me in the adventures ahead, I can’t wait to share this next chapter with you.
Wishing you all a wonderful New Year, filled with hope, joy, and endless possibilities. Cheers to what’s to come!
I’ll catch you in the next one. Até à próxima!
com carinho,
Paulo