For William, 82, the dream of returning to Portugal had been sitting quietly on his wish list for years. After his mobility began to decline, he feared foreign travel might be out of reach. The thought of airports, flights, and navigating new places felt daunting. But with the help of Country Cousins live-in care, William discovered that life’s great adventures don’t have to end with age or mobility challenges.
The Journey Begins
When William booked a two-week holiday in the Algarve, he arranged for a live-in carer, Lewis, to accompany him. From the moment they set off for the airport, William felt reassured knowing he had support every step of the way. Lewis handled luggage, assisted with check-in, and made the airport experience smooth and stress-free. On the plane, Lewis was on hand to ensure William was comfortable, hydrated, and able to simply relax and enjoy the journey.
Exploring the Algarve
Once in Portugal, William’s holiday became more than he’d imagined. With Lewis by his side, he had the confidence to explore local attractions he might otherwise have missed. Together they:
- Wandered through the whitewashed streets of Lagos, enjoying the vibrant colours of tiled houses and the scent of blooming bougainvillea.
- Visited the Silves Castle, where Lewis ensured William could take his time absorbing the sweeping views of the countryside.
- Enjoyed gentle strolls along the golden beaches of Albufeira, with Lewis always attentive to William’s pace and comfort.
A Taste of Portugal
Food was another highlight. With Lewis’s support, William could savour long, leisurely meals in traditional restaurants. They indulged in:
- Freshly grilled sardines served with a squeeze of lemon.
- Bowls of hearty Caldo Verde, Portugal’s famous green soup.
- Plates of tender piri-piri chicken, washed down with a glass of local vinho verde.
- And, of course, the sweet delight of pastéis de nata enjoyed in a sunny café courtyard.
Sharing meals together wasn’t just about food — it was about conversation, laughter, and soaking in the rhythm of Portuguese life.
Joy and Independence Restored
For William, the trip wasn’t just a holiday. It was proof that he could still embrace new experiences and create treasured memories. The companionship and reassurance provided by Lewis gave him the freedom to enjoy the Algarve without worry, while still feeling safe and supported.
Reflecting on his trip, William said it was one of the happiest experiences he’d had in years — a reminder that with the right support, independence and joy can continue, no matter the challenges.
Why It Matters
William’s story highlights how live-in carers do more than provide day-to-day assistance. They open the door to new experiences, travel, and cultural discovery, ensuring clients can live fully, wherever life may take them.
At Country Cousins, we believe that age or mobility challenges should never hold anyone back from adventure — and William’s Algarve journey is proof of the possibilities.
