‘I took this for granted in India’: Indian expat in Portugal lists 7 things she never appreciated in India until she left

There is a reason why posts from Indians living abroad often resonate online. They are rarely about big tourist attractions or major lifestyle changes. More often, they are about the little things that quietly make everyday life easier.

Many conveniences become so deeply woven into daily routines that people hardly think about them. Whether it is getting medicine delivered at home, finding a plumber at short notice, or booking a doctor's appointment without much hassle, these are things that can feel completely normal until someone experiences life in a different country.

A recent Instagram post has sparked a similar conversation. An Indian woman living in Portugal, Shruti Shivam, shared a video reflecting on some everyday comforts she says she never truly appreciated while living in India. Titled “POV: Things Portugal made me appreciate that I took for granted in India,” the video lists several aspects of daily life that she now views differently after moving abroad.

Deliveries at your doorstep

One of the first things Shruti mentioned was the ease of home deliveries in India.

According to her, getting groceries, food, and medicines delivered directly to the doorstep is something many people are used to.

“India: Groceries, medicines, food - everything comes home. Portugal: Many things still require physical pickup,” she wrote.

When urgent work does not have to wait

Another point she highlighted was the ability to get things done quickly when required.

She said that many tasks in India can often be managed immediately, while planning ahead is much more important in Portugal.

Fast delivery culture

The content creator also spoke about delivery speeds.

She pointed out that same-day deliveries and even 10-minute deliveries have become common experiences for many people in India.

“India: 10-minute, same-day, next-day delivery can feel normal now. Portugal: Even next-day delivery can feel ‘fast,’” she wrote.

Easy access to doctors and medicines

Healthcare was another area where she noticed a difference.

According to Shruti, access to doctors, pharmacies, and medicines is generally easier in India.

“India: Easily get appointments with doctors and pharmacies everywhere; easy medicine access. Portugal: Healthcare systems are structured but slower for small needs,” she said.

Local transport whenever you need it

Shruti also compared transportation in the two countries.

While she acknowledged Portugal's organized transport system, she said India offers the convenience of readily available local travel options.

Finding help for household repairs

The availability of skilled workers also made it to her list.

“India: Electricians and plumbers are often available quickly. Portugal: Appointment and labour costs feel heavier,” she said.

A repair culture she now values more

The final point she mentioned was India's repair culture.

According to her, many everyday items can often be repaired nearby at a relatively low cost instead of being replaced.

“India: Almost anything can be repaired cheaply nearby. Portugal: There is no repair culture. Instead, people often replace,” she wrote.

Through her post, Shruti shared how moving to Portugal changed her perspective on several everyday conveniences in India. Her observations highlight how some of the most appreciated parts of daily life are often the ones people rarely notice until they are no longer around.

Disclaimer: This article is based on a social media post shared online and user-generated content. The views and experiences mentioned belong to the individual concerned and do not reflect the official stance of The Times of India.We have reached out to the creator for a comment and will update the story if a response is received.Thumb image: Instagram