How Portugal The Place Came to Be
The Dream Begins
It started in 2020. The world had slowed to a halt, but for us, it became the perfect moment to start moving toward something we had been dreaming of for years: a new life in Portugal.
At the time, we launched @daddutchus as a way to document our experience—just a fun way to capture the memories. We had no idea how meaningful those early videos would become.
The Road Trip That Changed Everything
With Grandpa Bob and our dog Dutch riding along, we packed up our RV and hit the road across the U.S. while waiting for the Portuguese consulates to reopen. It was a strange, uncertain time, but we embraced the adventure. Before we left, we cracked open a fortune cookie that read:
“You will travel far and wide for both pleasure and business.”
At the time, we laughed. Now, five years later, that single sentence feels like a prophecy fulfilled.
From Journey to Brand
What began as a waiting period on wheels became the foundation of a brand, a business, and a lifestyle that we are deeply proud of. Today, Portugal The Place is more than just a relocation service—it’s a community, a movement, and a mission rooted in lived experience.
Helping Others Start Fresh
Over the years, we’ve helped thousands of individuals, couples, and families start fresh in Portugal. We’ve walked alongside them through every step of the process, offering the kind of real, human support we wish we’d had when we first started. From paperwork to personal transitions, from house hunting to heart-settling, we’ve helped others build not just a life in Portugal, but a life they love in Portugal.
The truth is, Portugal didn’t just change our address. It changed us.
Looking back at those early RV videos, it’s striking to see how far we’ve come—not just in miles, but in purpose, passion, and personal growth. We’ve grown right alongside the business we built. And now, Portugal truly feels like home in every sense of the word.
A Mission that Moves Us
We never expected that one cross-country road trip with our family would lead to building a brand and a business that means so much to so many. But here we are—living in Portugal, helping others do the same, and cultivating a community we’re incredibly proud to be part of.
At its core, Portugal The Place isn’t just about moving to a new country. It’s about creating a new life. It’s about courage, connection, and the kind of change that transforms you from the inside out.
To everyone who’s trusted us with your journey: thank you.
To those just beginning to imagine your move: we can’t wait to walk this path with you. And if you want to see where it all began—RV adventures, family milestones, and the road to Portugal—check out the full story on @daddutchus1357. We promise it’s a trip worth taking.
Here’s to living fully, traveling far and wide, and finding home in unexpected places—just like that fortune cookie said.
— The Portugal The Place Team
Meet the Team
Colleen Showalter
Clyde
Francisco
Pedro
Ula
John
Francisco Meneses
Alexandra
Ana Sofia
Inez
Chris
Margarida Mexia
Marilia
Sara
Jose
Tiago
Fiona
Meet the Team
Colleen Showalter
Clyde
Francisco
Pedro
Ula
John
Francisco Meneses
Alexandra
Ana Sofia
Priscilla
Margarida Mexia
Marilia
Sara
Jose
Tiago
Fiona
Meet Our Special Members
Dutch Bros. Showalter
Our fuzzy scouting mascot. I'm at the office to give you Dutch hugs whenever needed.
Aladdin
Our newest fuzzy family member. I'm at the office to give you Aladdin hugs whenever needed.