In January 2023, the Roman family, from the US, decided to treat themselves to a long stint of remote working in Portugal. Accompanied by their two adult daughters, Bailey and Riley, Jeremy and Jeanette packed their bags and headed to a charming house in Lagos, in the heart of the Algarve. While the parents worked inside, the two young women made the most of the warm sunshine on the veranda.
It was at that exact moment that an elegant black cat, about a year old, made her appearance. Showing no signs of shyness, the little feline calmly strolled over and curled up on 22-year-old Bailey's lap without hesitation. For the young woman, it was love at first sight. She looked at her mother and made a firm decision: this cat was coming back to the United States with her.
The incredible journey across the Atlantic
Bringing a stray cat to another continent seemed like a logistical nightmare. However, seeing her daughter's determination, Jeanette gave her the green light. Bailey rushed the little kitty to a local vet. An examination confirmed she had neither a microchip nor an owner. Vaccinated, microchipped, and sporting a brand-new European pet passport, the little creature was now ready for the big journey.
But the trip was not without its dramas. During the drive to Lisbon airport, the soft travel bag was no match for the cat's curiosity, and she managed to escape and explore the car! The family quickly bought a sturdy plastic carrier and managed to convince the airline crew to let the little runaway on board. After a smooth flight over the ocean and an easy pass through customs in New York, the former Portuguese street cat officially became an American resident.
A twist of fate and a brand-new life
Named Binx, in honour of the famous black cat from the film Hocus Pocus, the feline has settled wonderfully into her new life in Pennsylvania. She now lives amidst a happy household of pets, including another cat, a dog, and some reptiles.
But the story does not end there. For the Roman family, Binx remained a living symbol of Portugal, a country they had fallen madly in love with. Touched by the laid-back lifestyle, the entire family is now preparing for a permanent move to Europe. It is a poetic homecoming for Binx, who is about to cross the Atlantic once again — this time for good.