Many individuals facing chronic illnesses are seeking alternatives to their home countries for better healthcare and lifestyle options. Christina Kantzavelos, a therapist and chronic illness advocate, made the decision to relocate from California to Portugal in late 2022 after experiencing the challenges of America’s healthcare system. Now based in Óbidos, a town approximately 52 miles north of Lisbon, she is enjoying a healthier lifestyle and significant savings.
Kantzavelos, 37, spent over a year exploring various European countries before settling in Portugal in March 2024. Her choice was driven by a desire for a more affordable and community-centered lifestyle that includes access to nature and a favorable climate. She appreciates the blend of locals and expats, which fosters a welcoming atmosphere. “It’s nice to know things are happening,” she said, referring to the vibrant cultural scene just a short distance from Lisbon.
For Kantzavelos, the benefits of living in Portugal extend beyond its scenic landscapes. She reports feeling “less inflamed, more energized, and more vibrant overall.” Her work-life balance has improved significantly, allowing her to prioritize her health while still maintaining her client base in the United States. Working primarily within Pacific Standard Time, she typically concludes her day around 22:00, which enables her to enjoy leisurely mornings and necessary health appointments throughout the day.
Portugal’s lifestyle strikes Kantzavelos as more conducive to living rather than working. “People here seem to work to live versus live to work in the U.S.,” she noted. This shift has contributed to her overall well-being, making it easier to manage her chronic conditions. The financial aspect also plays a crucial role; she spends considerably less on grocery bills and healthcare services in Portugal compared to the United States.
For instance, Kantzavelos estimates that a week’s worth of groceries for two people, consisting mostly of organic food, costs around 125 euros (approximately $145). In California, similar groceries would have easily reached $300. Additionally, she mentioned that her rent in Portugal for a three-bedroom, 2,000-square-foot apartment is 1,300 euros per month. In contrast, a comparable apartment in San Diego would likely cost at least $5,000 per month.
Despite being a European citizen and a resident of Portugal, Kantzavelos does not yet qualify for the country’s healthcare system and pays for all services out of pocket. Nevertheless, she finds these costs manageable. For example, she recently paid 40 euros for an hour with an osteopath, a service that would have cost $275 for just 30 minutes in California. Her weekly lymphatic massages, essential for her health, also cost 40 euros for an hour and a half. In comparison, similar treatment in the U.S. would approach $175 for the same duration.
Kantzavelos highlighted the stark contrast between her experiences in the U.S. and Europe regarding healthcare affordability. She recounted a significant emergency surgery she underwent in Greece, which cost only 50 euros at a private institution. In the U.S., she estimated that such a procedure could easily escalate to $5,000 at an emergency room.
“There are people who have had to open GoFundMe accounts for their healthcare,” she lamented. “It doesn’t make sense that we need to crowdfund to cover healthcare costs when we pay so much for health insurance.” Kantzavelos has witnessed countless instances of insurance companies denying necessary treatments, which she finds disheartening.
Her decision to relocate has resulted in a marked improvement in her mental and physical health. “Nervous system dysregulation is tied so closely to our health,” she explained. “If we’re not feeling comfortable or safe in our environment, it can impact our health significantly.” Since moving to Portugal, she has felt a profound difference in her overall well-being, even without extensive treatments.
Kantzavelos expressed gratitude for the support she has received from her clients during this transition. She has noticed a positive response to her work in her new environment and believes that making such a move can be beneficial for many seeking better health outcomes. “If we go somewhere and realize, ‘Wow, I see a difference,’ it’s worthwhile for us to make the move.”
As more individuals consider relocating for better health options, Kantzavelos’s experience sheds light on the potential benefits of seeking affordable and holistic lifestyles abroad. Her journey illustrates how access to a supportive community, affordable healthcare, and a balanced lifestyle can significantly enhance one’s quality of life.
