A few days ago, I came across a TikTok video where the leader of a London company talked about how the UK has become one of the worst places to live. He mentioned the struggling economy, high taxes, safety concerns, and the gloomy reality of going seven months without seeing the sun.
This isn’t the first time I’ve heard this.
Recently, I went back to my old beauty salon in Canning Town, near the building where I lived for seven years. I go there once a month, and every time, I notice how much the area has changed. What used to feel lively now seems overcrowded. The bridge where camera crews used to film music videos is now a shelter for homeless people. And then, something I’d never seen while I lived there: on a Friday afternoon, piles of trash on the street, surrounded by rats. People just walked by like it was nothing.
For a moment, I froze in shock. I thought, Yep, I’m not crossing this street.
Canning Town is one stop away from Canary Wharf—one of the most desirable areas in London—but it felt like nobody noticed how bad things had gotten.
Later that evening, my husband and I agreed that we were lucky to have seen the best days of that place and that we moved out at the perfect time.
Is the UK Really That Bad?
I know I painted a grim picture, but do I think the UK is one of the worst places to live? No, not at all. I’m an optimist. I believe things can and will get better. Plus, as someone once said on my podcast: Pray for and bless the place where you live.
We’re not planning to move anytime soon. I’m grateful for the opportunities I’ve had here. I genuinely like this place—it feels like home. You’ll meet some of the kindest and friendliest people, enjoy stunning landscapes, and find endless opportunities for growth. There’s a reason why, after eight years, we haven’t returned to Romania, even though everyone back home keeps telling us we’re making a mistake by staying here.
It’s all about perspective. This summer, we barely had any warm days. I remember one cold day in June when I came home from work, wearing a jumper and a jacket, still shivering. I decided to bake cookies instead of being upset about the weather. I thought, You either stay unhappy, or you adapt.
And where else did I go this year? Somewhere sunny and warm? No, I went to Norway! I guess I’ve learned to live without the sun.
Speaking of the Sun: Let’s Talk Portugal
Ah, Portugal. It’s not my first time there, but this trip was different. Lisbon and Porto have a completely different vibe compared to the Algarve, where we’d been before.
We went in June, and the main reason for the trip was to meet up with my husband’s best friends, who were visiting from Australia.
Why Portugal Is Worth Returning To
- The Weather
The sunshine alone is reason enough to visit. Compared to the UK’s gray skies, Portugal feels like a warm embrace. I remember several moments during my time there when I stopped just to acknowledge the warm sun on my face. - The Culture
Lisbon’s cobbled streets and Porto’s colorful architecture are charming and full of life. The people are welcoming, and everything feels relaxed. - The Food
From fresh seafood to warm pastel de nata, Portuguese food is simple but amazing. Every meal feels special. I’m not a foodie, but in Porto, I had the best meal I’ve had in years. - Affordability
Portugal is surprisingly affordable. You can enjoy incredible food, comfortable accommodations, and memorable experiences without overspending. In Lisbon, we stayed in a gorgeous Airbnb house, and in Porto, we stayed at a 4-star hotel. We were surprised by how affordable everything was in both locations. Meals out, taxis everywhere, and even a massage one day—it was all so affordable. And on massage, everything turned into a bit of a situation. When I arrived, I saw that the masseur was a man, and I had to refuse the service. The staff was kind and changed it for me, but it led to a lengthy discussion. Now, I’ve learned my lesson: I always mention beforehand that I’m only comfortable with female masseuses. But back to my point—everything was incredibly affordable. - The Variety
Portugal may be small, but it has so much to offer. Lisbon and Porto are vibrant cities, while the Algarve is perfect for relaxing on stunning beaches.
Porto 
The Ocean 
Porto
Portugal has my heart for so many reasons. The sunny skies, the beautiful landscapes, and the way life feels lighter there. Every visit leaves me wanting more, and I know I’ll keep going back.
For now, I’ll dream about those warm streets, delicious meals, and breathtaking sunsets.
Portugal, until next year…♡
