My name is Paula I am from Uberlândia, Minas Gerais and I decided to come to Ireland to study English like many other Brazilians. I’ve been here for 7 years and I’m in love with this country!
When did you arrive in Ireland and how long did you stay? I arrived here in 2012 and since then I live here. My plan was to stay for 6 months, study English and if I could get a job I would stay for 1 year (that time the student visa was 6 months of study + 6 months of vacation). Opportunities were appearing and when I saw it it had been 7 years!
What do you think of the lifestyle of the cities where you have lived? For years I lived in Dublin and today I live in Galway. Dublin is a cosmopolitan city, Ireland’s largest and busiest city, but at the same time I have the feeling of being a small town and inland. Very wooded and with lots of parks around town. Galway is a much smaller city than Dublin, very cultural and by the incredible that seems very busy for being a university town and tourist attraction. The vibes of Galway are wonderful, artsy and the night crowded and trendy. Galway rains a lot compared to Dublin, but in the summer it is simply marvelous!
How does the lifestyle differ from the Brazilian way of life? Very different from the Brazilian. There’s traffic here, but it’s not crazy like in Brazil. People complain about rainy and cold weather, but they appreciate every minute of sunshine. They value their own well-being above work.
What is the difference between the Irish and the Brazilians? We are many similarities in several aspects: friendly, receptive, partying, family. But Irish people are generally more timid, insecure, and only open up to someone when building trust. Once this bond is created they are super curious and have a lot of interest in other cultures.
What is the best part of living in Ireland? Quality of life without a doubt! Work what is necessary to live well, have purchasing power and have security. Go out at night, return by public transport or walking without having to be afraid.
What are the things you do not want to live in Ireland? The weather! I do not care about the cold, but the rain and the wind are the most discouraging!
What are the things that you or other Brazilians feel the most about living in Ireland? Sun every day, food and the family logically!
Where is the place you like to visit in Ireland and why? Because I have lived in Dublin for many years, I love going there to meet my friends and to know that I have built ties there. But one place that fascinates me is the Cliffs of Moher: it brings peace and lots of positive vibe to that place. I’ve been several times and I go back as many times as I have to.
What advice would you give to someone thinking of moving to Ireland? Save, prepare well for your exchange and come with an open mind! Changing country in the beginning is not easy for anyone, but believe in its purpose and potential! Follow your dreams and come live intensely on the Emerald Isle!
