India, Nov. 4 -- While the "American dream" promises opportunity and prosperity, for many, it comes at a price, especially when it comes to healthcare. For Christina Kantzavelos, a 37-year-old therapist from California living with chronic illness, that cost became too heavy to bear, both financially and emotionally. So in 2024, she packed her life and moved to Portugal in search of better health, affordability and peace of mind.

Speaking to Business Insider, Christina said living with chronic illness in the US left her exhausted. "My nervous system just feels safer here. I feel less inflamed, more energised, more vibrant overall," she shared about her life in Portugal.

The 37-year-old told the outlet that she continues to work remotely,...