Living the Dream: in the Algarve, Portugal

by Alyson Sheldrake

The story of one couple's move from the UK to live in the sun.
From propositioning a builder, to battling bureaucracy, and adapting to a slower pace of life in the sunshine; this is the refreshingly honest and often hilarious account of one couple's move from the rainy UK to the sunny Algarve in Portugal.
Alyson and Dave Sheldrake were determined to realise their dream of living abroad; so they ended their jobs, packed up everything they owned and moved to the Algarve to start a new life. Follow them as they battle with the Portuguese language, set up their own businesses, adopt a rescue dog and navigate the 'expat' world.
Part guidebook, mostly memoir; this book is for anyone who has ever wondered what moving abroad is really like; and is essential reading for anyone considering moving to Portugal.

Genres: Travel, Nonfiction, Memoir

282 pages, Kindle Edition

Published April 21, 2020

About the author

Alyson Sheldrake has an honours degree in sport and a teaching qualification in physical education, English, and drama. She has always loved art and painting, although she found little time for such pleasures, working full time after graduation. Alyson joined the Devon and Cornwall Police and served for thirteen years before leaving and working her way up the education ladder, rapidly reaching the dizzy heights of a Director of Education for the Church of England in Devon.
Managing over 130 schools was a challenging and rewarding role. However, after three years, her husband, Dave, retired from the police, and their long-held dream of living in the sun became a reality.
Alyson handed in her notice, and with her dusty easel and set of acrylic paints packed and ready to move, they started their new adventure living in the beautiful Algarve in Portugal.
She is now an accomplished and sought-after artist and author working alongside Dave, who became a professional photographer. Being able to bring their much-loved hobbies and creative interests to life has been a wonderful bonus to their life in the Algarve.
Alyson is the former editor of Portugal Letter magazine and a feature writer for the Algarve’s Tomorrow magazine. She is the author of the Algarve Dream Series of travel memoirs and the author/curator of the Travel Stories Series of anthologies.
Her animal memoir, Kat the Dog: The remarkable tale of a rescued Spanish Water Dog, was released in 2002, and is a multi-award-winning bestseller.
Her latest book, The Rainbow Bridge, is her first foray into fantasy fiction.
When she is not painting or writing, you can find Alyson walking Zara, their newly rescued Spanish water dog, along the riverbank in Aljezur.

Reviews

[Beth Haslam · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ever wondered what it’s like to up sticks and move to a country you’ve fallen in love with? If so, read this book.

The author and her husband take the brave decision to leave successful careers in the UK and settle in the Algarve. Determined to immerse themselves in the local culture, they buy a house on the outskirts of a village, adopt a gorgeous rescue dog and begin a new life.

I know the Algarve well and was charmed by the author’s vivid descriptions of the places they visit, the scenes, sights and customs. I could easily imagine having that daily coffee and delicious pastel de nata in the village café. It’s a delightfully Portuguese tradition.

Throughout the book, Alyson provides terrific advice on different areas and the sometimes tortuous processes involved in becoming a resident in a country hyper-keen on bureaucracy. They manage, though, and often with refreshing ease.

The book is a fun travel memoir with bags of appeal for anyone who enjoys an informative read, and especially those interested in moving to Portugal. The author’s love for their adopted country shines through her writing. So much so, it has inspired the couple to discover new talents and new careers. I look forward to reading about their continued adventures.

[Sandy McKenna · Rating 5 out of 5]

The good life.
I read this very descriptive memoir during mid Winter in Australia, and all I wanted to do was pack my bags and head to the Algarve.
After regular holidays in Portugal, Alyson and her husband Dave take early retirement to move there permanently. No hurdle is insurmountable for them, as they adjust to the change in lifestyle, the local community, customs, food and language.
The wonderful photo album accessed from the memoir would certainly tempt any person considering a holiday in that region.

[Valerie Poore · Rating 4 out of 5]

Part memoir, part guide, this is a friendly and enthusiastic account of life in Portugal as the author has experienced it. She's very honest about the downs, especially about the endless bureaucracy and paper trails they had to chase concerning every aspect of life there, but she still manages to imbue what must have been very frustrating times with good humour and lots of good advice. As for the ups, they are pretty much self-explanatory: sunshine, relaxed lifestyle, kind people and an easy-going existence. I think much of this book will be very useful to wannabe Portuguese residents, but for me, the best parts were the descriptions of their interaction with the Portuguese people themselves. I think Alyson and her husband must be very nice people as they drew so much kindness from their neighbours. I also enjoyed the stories about her adventures with the language and I admire the fact they set up their own businesses and are contributing to Portugal in a real and positive way. Well done, Alyson and David Sheldrake. I enjoyed your journey and I'm sure you've given others hope and encouragement with your constructive tips and description of your experiences.

[Mary K · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a really fun read, fast-paced, well-written. There were some laugh-out-loud moments. For people wanting to move to - or visit - this part of Portugal, it’s also a great travel guide

[Rebecca · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a fun and informative book. For anyone considering a move to the Algarve and for those who simply love it as a holiday destination, this is a must read. Her descriptions are so lively and vivid it certainly makes me want to visit again When Alyson and her husband retired, they sold up and moved to Portugal where they have both built up new and fulfilling careers. I’m filled with admiration for their determination to fit in with the local community and not to live the ‘expat lifestyle’ and had a few laughs at the author’s language faux pas! I loved the conversational style of writing and enjoyed the many stories and historical details as well. There are links to some beautiful photos of the area taken by her husband and some of her own lovely artwork. I’m looking forward to reading more from Alyson Sheldrake, hopefully fairly soon.

[Elizabeth Lloyd · Rating 5 out of 5]

Living the Dream describes the experiences of Alyson and David Sheldrake as they began a new life in Portugal. It includes amusing anecdotes, useful information for prospective residents and delightful descriptions of this beautiful locality. At this point I should declare my personal interest. We have a holiday home in the Algarve and we seriously considered becoming permanent residents. Eventually we rejected the idea for family reasons, but I still yearn to be there now.
So why Portugal? Alyson tells her readers how a short holiday captured their imagination and after returning several times they couldn’t resist buying a property in Ferragudo in the western Algarve. Of course the weather is a plus, not just the sunshine, but also the fact that there are seasons with spring flowers and cool damp winters. As well as the tourist resorts there are quaint villages with beautiful old churches and traditional customs and best of all, the warmth and friendliness of the Portuguese people.
The practicalities of their permanent move abroad were time consuming but achievable and they soon settled into the mainly Portuguese community. Alyson’s efforts with this difficult language were appreciated even though she sometimes made some amusing mistakes. We share her experience in adopting the abandoned dog called Kat and laugh with her over the eccentric driving in the area. Those who need more information about day-to-day life will appreciate the details on healthcare, cost of living and entertainment and even if you just go there for a holiday, the chapter highlighting some of the best beaches is superb.
You will find this an easy to read book, in the style of a friendly blog, which is enjoyable even when you are locked down in an English winter!

[Nikki McArthur · Rating 5 out of 5]

After the first 2 chapters I was ready to pack up and move to Portugal as Alyson gave a wonderful description of life there. This book is essential reading for anyone considering moving or visiting Portugal. Alyson takes you on a tour of the good and bad aspects of living abroad, many of which I can relate to as they are similar in some respects to our experiences of moving to SW France. However, the noise they were greeted with at midnight on their first New Years Eve is a stark contrast to the deathly silence we experienced on ours in rural France. She gives a wonderful description of her favourite beaches, walking routes, places of interest and restaurants to visit which I will definitely be referring back to on our next visit. Inspiring too to hear how Alyson and her husband Dave have turned their hobbies of painting and photography into a profitable income and are truly living the dream in every aspect. A thoroughly inspiring and enjoyable read. 

[Jack Montgomery · Rating 5 out of 5]

As someone who currently lives in Portugal, albeit a different part of the country, I was especially interested in reading about Alyson's experiences. It was like a trip down memory lane, her journey taking me back to moving to another country back in 2003 (Spain at that time) and the sheer joy of living somewhere the pace is more relaxed, communities still thrive, and life is mostly lived outside – as well as the downsides i.e. dealing with officialdom. I didn't know the Algarve as well as some other parts of Portugal, so it was a pleasure to get to know it better through Alyson's eyes.
Living the Dream is ideal for anyone who wants a taste of what it's like to actually live in a place many people only know as a holiday destination.

[Neal Atherton · Rating 5 out of 5]

An affectionate memoir and guide

Really enjoyed this first book by Alyson about her move to Portugal. It works on a few levels, part memoir, part travel guide but I suspect extremely useful to anyone thinking of moving abroad. She has a clear warmth and affection for the people and it is good to see the humour is not directed at the locals but she injects plenty of fun moments. A lovely relaxing read that draws you in to her story and new life. The photography and artwork provided is a nice touch and of exceptional quality and there are more photos on her husbands website.

 

 


 

[Gary Michaels · Rating 4 out of 5]

How to Algarve?

Part memoir, part guide for others considering a move to the Algarve and part tourist guide. I enjoyed the book because it is about a part of the world I knew nothing about.

[Rebecca · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a quick and enjoyable read about a couple that retire from Britain to live permanently in Portugal. There is more in this book than many of the others I have read about the work and research it takes to make a move to another country. Lots of narrative about how the Portuguese gov. love paperwork and how much you have to have and carry with you at all times.

Some great descriptions of festivals, beaches and walks in the countryside that they took. Not as much here compared to other books I've read about the food and the people though. If you like that sort of thing than I recommend you read Victoria Tweed's books. This one was more like a Primer to Moving to Portugal, I thought.

[Nicole · Rating 5 out of 5]

Alyson’s description of the book as part memoir, part guide book is spot on. So many of the stories I could relate to. She does a great job of providing information on the Algarve. This is the perfect book for anyone who is even considering moving to Portugal.

[Linda Hawkswell · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wonderful

Well written in a very descriptive way and an excellent read, very informative and entertaining. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and it will be extremely helpful to anyone already living there or looking to move to Portugal. This book is full of lots of useful information and funny stories and I love the photos, well done Dave.
Having moved to Spain with my Son 11 years ago I can relate to a lot of the funny stories. The reams and reams of paperwork required even if you are just buying an electrical item. Everything has to be in triplicate. Alyson and Dave seem to have mastered and weathered that storm very well indeed and got if off pat.
Even if you are not looking to relocate to the Algarve this is still an interesting book to read and I can highly recommend it.
Well done Alyson and I look forward to the next installment.

[Gosia · Rating 2 out of 5]

DNR. Somehow, I'm fed up with books that glorify the "simple leaving" and demonize people who work 9-5 or want to live in the city. Just leave everyone be. You can describe your feelings of moving to a place you feel is best, but you can do so without shaming the others. And that was the vibe I got from this book. I got "We love our life because it's better than yours because our life is the only life everyone should live", and not "we love our life.". Nope. Plus, most of the stories were written in a way that there was a "challenge" or a "complaint" and then... no resolution given, just the final effect. A story to document a hassle had a half a page introduction why it was such a hassle and why Portuguese beaurocracy is a bit hard, but one or two sentences saying "finally we managed" and I'm screaming "but hoooowwwww." That' a no for me.

[Stephen Thompsn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dreaming big of the Algarve

I read this book because I had been researching a trip to Portugal and always thought about Lisbon & Porto but her book gave us such a new appreciation for the Algarve and it’s now definitely being put on our itinerary. A lovely memoir of an adventurous couple, the trials tribulations and sometimes humorous Portuguese bureaucracy. This book gives you a feel for the weather, the food, the people and their traditions, the beaches, the language, a little of everything. Well written and funny! So even if you’re not interested in moving overseas or planning to travel there it’s still a great read and I highly recommend.

[Sarah Fletcher · Rating 4 out of 5]

What a wonderful entertaining informative book. I smiled all the way through this reading the pure pleasures and trials whilst navigating the move to Portugal. I have the great pleasure of being a very old friend of this fabulous couple, having met over 20 years ago but sadly losing touch over the years. Reading Alyson's account I could picture them through every step and remembered vividly their amazing humour , their love for each other and their kindness. So good to be back in touch and so thrilled for your success and happiness.

[Anandh Sundar]

An unusual travel book about a permanent resident

Algarve is a retirement and tourist hub so a good book about a British couple who chose to retire early there. Good nuggets and practical advice (eg rent in off peak season before moving)

[Carol Rode · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great read.

Enjoyed reading this book. Moving to another country is a lot of paperwork. But the way she told of all the doings and events made this town sound so wonderful.

[Dawn · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've given this book 5* because it's a useful guide for anyone wishing to move to Portugal - it's a great way to learn about the country, its delights, beauty and quirks (and also some of its drawbacks!) through the experience of Alyson and Dave - particularly as the book is written in a logical way with useful chapter headings which covers just about every aspect of life in the Algarve, and it's also written as a memoir which makes it a very easy read. With Alyson and Dave you experience their disaffection with Britain (a place she describes as having grey skies, miserable people and dishwater coffee (!) to name but a few! - which not every reader may agree with!), but then, by contrast, we are transported with them to experience their ardent love affair with the beautiful warm and sunny country of Portugal as Alyson eloquently portrays the idyllic village of Ferragudo and the relaxed lifestyle in the sun as they move to this tiny fishing village and savour it's wonderful culture and dreamy way of life, not needing to know the time or day of the week: bliss! ......notwithstanding some of the minor frustrations mind you of making such a move (such as the bureaucracy, or discovering how domestic animals are sometimes treated). The chapter about Kat the dog is heartwarming, and I'm very much looking forward to reading Alyson's book "Kat the Dog".

[Tammy Horvath · Rating 5 out of 5]

A dream come true. I don’t know how many people dream of moving to another country, but it is at the top of my bucket list. But that will never happen since my husband doesn’t want to move. That is why I lived vicariously through Alyson as she and her husband, Dave, began their adventure of moving to Portugal, where the neighbors are friendly, generous with garden produce, shower you with random acts of kindness, and are always willing to lend a helping hand. I really enjoyed their sightseeing trips, especially to Spain.
But I’m not sure I could handle all that is involved in making this transition to a new life abroad—this book has me thinking. Who am I kidding? I’d do whatever it took to live my dream, just like Alyson Sheldrake and her husband, and I’d love to explore the beaches in the Algarve, which has been voted as Europe’s top beach destination. What I found hilarious were the language issues, but I’m sure I would have done worse. I highly recommend this book if you’re a dreamer like me or love armchair travel.

[Eden · Rating 4 out of 5]

2021 bk 33: This book is pitched for the British couple interested in moving to or retiring to Portugal. It made me want to move there - maybe. I'm not sure if I would fall in love or hate the slower pace described. The couple does an excellent job of describing their new home, the processes needed in getting residency, buying a home, shopping. They had some information on local festivals and museums, but I wish there had been far more of this. One thing I did enjoy was that they included some of the volunteer groups that have sprung up among the expat community - especially the group that supports the local firefighters with equipment, food and water at fires, and other items. Interesting read.

[Carol Nash · Rating 5 out of 5]

Part memoir, part guide book, with lots of useful, factual information and interesting places to visit.
The author and her husband made the brave decision to emigrate and start a new life in Portugal after spending many enjoyable holidays there. I can empathise with them having to deal with all the bureaucracy surrounding residency etc. The author’s genuine love of Portuguese people, and her adopted country, shines through, and I love that the couple manage to turn their hobbies into businesses.
This is a great read, full of humour and anguish, highs and lows, and is a bible for anyone considering a move to Portugal.

[Shirley Read-Jahn · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a gem of a book. Not only does Alyson write in a casual, chatty style that is easy to read and flows well, but it is also packed with information that anyone moving to the Algarve would find extremely useful. She’s an amusing writer, too, and had me laughing again and again, particularly in parts where she describes the paperwork that Portuguese officials like, and demand! And her bit about trying to dismantle the waterbed cracked me up. She had me wanting to hop on a plane immediately to experience all she writes about firsthand. This is an absolute must-read for anyone moving to Portugal, plus a very enjoyable read for everyone else.

[TX Poppet · Rating 4 out of 5]

Such a fun little book of anecdotes and recommendations from English expats in Portugal. Her writing style reads like a series of short public speeches but is engaging and descriptive. I recommend this self published book as it is concise and easy to read with only minor editing problems. I wish the accompanying photos had been printed within the book rather than being located on an outside website as they were well worth the look. I have already ordered the follow up book in this series.

[Lisa · Rating 3 out of 5]

Interesting but not well written

Alyson Sheldrake seems a nice person and loves her life in Portugal, but she is definitely not a great writer. Still, for someone considering an expat life it was a good, practical if somewhat Pollyannaish read by a privileged former Brit. I was especially intrigued by her descriptions of the bureaucracy they encountered, which is my greatest fear when I think about moving. Read for the information, not the prose.

[Susanne Waldmann · Rating 4 out of 5]

Choc full of helpful advice and an entertaining read at that! The author's approach to organising the chapters makes it easy to come back to relevant information regarding for example, healthcare, festivals, beaches, local history - you name it... it's there! The author is a talented artist, a popular blogger, an empathic animal lover, and all this shines through in her writing...

[John Johnson · Rating 4 out of 5]

An excellent how-to book

If your thinking about moving to far away Portugal you might want to read this book. It explains both what you’ll need to go through (forms government stuff) and why (it’s beautiful, people are lovely) and cost (living expense.0

[Susan · Rating 2 out of 5]

There was some good stuff about the title subject in amongst the personal meanderings. Not terrible.

[Holly · Rating 3 out of 5]

This makes me want to jump on a plane and move to Portugal today. I loved reading about one couple’s experience moving to a new country.

[Wendy Fuess · Rating 4 out of 5]

Must read for anyone considering moving to the Algarve.. Skipped over the parts that had to do exclusively with being a British expat.