We’re starting a new series on Drogheda Life to highlight people from the town and wider North East who are now living and working abroad.
Whether it’s for work, study or a change of pace, more and more people are taking the opportunity to experience life in different parts of the world. Through this series, we want to share those stories, what brought them there, what life is like, and what they’ve learned along the way.
It’s a chance to stay connected to the community at home, while also getting a glimpse into where Drogheda people are making their mark across the globe.
For many young people in Drogheda, the idea of heading abroad for work is something they think about.
First up in the series is Cian Barry, who is currently living and working in Portugal.
For Cian Barry, it’s something he’s already doing.
Cian is currently based in the Algarve in Portugal, working in the well known resort of Quinta do Lago.
He is part of the food and beverage team in a beach bar and grill called The Shack, where no two days are the same.
“I am bartending, drink running, food running and everything else that comes with the job,” he says.
The move came about through his course in DKIT, which offered a six month work placement. Students could choose their destination once they secured a job themselves.
“I said why not the sunny Algarve,” he explains.
Since arriving, Cian says he has settled well into life abroad and is making the most of the experience.
“I am loving life out here. It’s an unreal opportunity to broaden my horizons and see the beauty around. On my two days off I explore the Algarve and I’m really enjoying it.”
Alongside the work, he has also been picking up the language and getting to know the local culture.
“The work is great too. I’m learning some Portuguese and all about their culture.”
Like many who move away for the first time, being far from home has been the biggest adjustment.
“My biggest challenge has been being away from everyone. Not seeing the usual faces around every day and missing my family and friends. It was weird at first but you get used to it.”
Despite that, he says the independence that comes with living abroad has been a highlight.
“I’m enjoying the freedom the most while living abroad. As my first time living away from home I’m enjoying the independence of it all. I also enjoy the whole experience. It’s a beautiful resort.”
The contrast with home is something that stands out too.
“It is completely different to home in Drogheda. They call this resort the Beverly Hills of Portugal. It’s an exclusive resort so it’s definitely been a change of scenery.”
While he misses home, especially his dog, Cian says being able to travel back makes it easier.
“I miss my dog the most. It’s been weird not seeing him every day. I obviously miss my family and friends too. I am missing Drogheda as a whole but I’m only over the road so I can fly back on some of my days off.”
Looking back on his experience so far, he believes more people should take the opportunity to live abroad if they can.
“I think everyone should try moving out of their hometown at some stage in their life. It really opens your eyes to what else the world has to offer. It’s good to experience cultures that aren’t our own. You bring home a lot of good experiences.”
For now, his focus is on finishing his placement before returning home later this year.
“I plan to finish my college course once I get home in September and we’ll see how it goes from there. I might try see if I can come back over to Portugal in the coming years.”
For Cian, it’s been a chance to step outside his comfort zone, experience something new and bring a bit of Drogheda with him while he’s at it.
Living or working abroad from Drogheda or the North East? We’d love to hear your story. Get in touch to be part of the series.
Contact; news@droghedalife.com
