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Portugal: A Peaceful, Surprisingly Affordable European Destination
Portugal offers dazzling coastlines… charming towns… friendly people… incredibly safe living… 3,300 hours of sunshine annually… a mild climate… and is home to some of the world’s best beaches and golf courses… and that’s just for starters…
Portugal wasn’t a well-known destination and attracted very few foreign visitors: It remained largely undiscovered until the mid-1990s, when Europeans began immigrating en masse.
The country is described as a peaceful and surprisingly affordable European destination.
Expats enjoy its beautiful landscapes, historical architecture, stunning beaches, and welcoming residency programs.
Nowadays, Portugal is home to 700,000 expats: mostly Europeans and North Americans. Most importantly, Portugal ranks as the 6th safest country in the world.
The origin of the name Algarve is Al-Gharb, meaning “west” in Arabic.
Despite its small size (225 kilometers wide and 612 kilometers long), Portugal rewards the visitor at every step, offering a mild climate, and hospitable locals.
You’ll enjoy beautiful white-sand beaches throughout the country… almond trees in the African-looking Algarve region… fields of golden wheat in Alentejo, ranches in Ribatejo… ox-driven carts across Minho… and vineyards in Douro.
The country is rich with artistic and cultural treasures, tasty cuisine, and a unique architectural style (called Manueline).
Reviewed By Lief Simon
Lief Simon is the managing editor of Global Property Advisor, Simon Letter, and Offshore Living Letter. He has purchased more than 45 properties, investing in 23 different countries around the world.
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According to the 2023 Global Peace Index, Portugal is the seventh safest country in the world.
Violent crime is rare, and petty crime is limited to street crime during the busy tourist season. As well, this country has managed to keep itself separate from the immigration crisis that is playing out in other parts of Europe.
When deciding whether or not to live in Portugal, expats want to know is: do people speak English in Portugal? The answer is yes. English is widely spoken by most of the locals (especially in urban cities such as Lisbon or Porto).
Living in Portugal avails itself to be a very different pace of life compared to the United States and Canada, or even compared to other European destinations.
Everything tends to move at a slightly slower pace in Portugal, with the culture being heavily geared towards taking your time with life and enjoying yourself.
For example, instead of a one-hour lunch break at noon, most Portuguese take a two-hour lunch break.
This should be seen as a pro, and not a con. After all, if you are looking for somewhere with gorgeous architecture, rich history, a hefty wine culture, stunning beaches, and more, then Portugal should be at the top of your list.
No matter where you choose to go in Portugal, you will always find the shoe that fits you.
Portugal offers luxuries and amenities. So, you can take your time, enjoy your day, and relax (while still getting plenty done).
Retirees and digital nomads looking for a new place to live can’t go wrong with Portugal. It doesn’t draw as much attention as its Iberian sibling, Spain, but Portugal has a lot going for it — medieval castles, vineyards, sparkling beaches, great food and the best weather in continental Europe.
Many resorts and rental properties in Portugl are set up to accommodate people using wheelchairs, and many beaches in the Algarve are wheelchair-friendly, even offering rental chairs that can go over the sand and into the water.
The centers of Lisbon and other towns and cities across the country. However, with their steep hills, cobblestoned streets, and few ramps, are generally not wheelchair- or disabled-friendly.
The cost of living in Portugal is extremely affordable, which is what makes it such a sought after luxury destination.
While more and more people are migrating towards Portugal and the varied lifestyles it has to offer, the prices are competitive and affordable on a budget.
Compared to other countries in Western Europe, the cost of living in Portugal is on average 30% to 35% cheaper. When you compare it to the United States, it’s on average 37% cheaper.
Currency conversion at today’s exchange rate.
No matter where you are coming from, moving to Portugal will cut your budget in about a third of what it already was.
Portugal is an enviable tax destination for new residents, and offers bargain real estate opportunities outside of Lisbon and non-tourist areas.
Since Portugal is a peaceful and surprisingly affordable European destination, you’ll find the ideal destination: Wonderful Mediterranean weather, charming and welcoming people, tax benefits, beautiful beaches, plenty of wine, and a relaxing lifestyle.
Getting to Portugal from the United States and Canada is simple and extremely affordable.
A round trip flight from the U.S. or Canada costs on average US$800 up to US$1,200.
You can fly from most major cities in the United States and Canada directly (New York, Chicago, Miami, San Francisco, Toronto, Montreal). The cities you will land in Portugal are Lisbon, Faro (in the South), and Porto (in the North).
The cities and areas we recommend are the Algarve region, Lisbon, Braga, Porto and the North, and the Silver Coast.
In The Algarve Region is where most expats end up, especially in cities like Lagos and Tavira. If you love cliffs, old towns, medieval walls, and stunning beaches, then look no further than Lagos.
For something closer to nature then the smaller coastal town of Tavira is where you should be looking.
Lisbon, the capital of the country, has one of the lowest cost of living of Portugal and most other European capitals. The locals are charming and welcoming.
The city of Lisbon has an old feel and plenty of things to do: Wonderful cuisine, unique architecture, and a vibrant lifestyle.
Porto is the second largest city in Portugal, and is widely viewed as the culture capital of the country: You can find a historic center, the Ribeira district, which is an UNESCO world heritage site.
On top of history, aesthetics, and culture, you will find plenty of beach resorts and luxurious amenities in the nearby areas.
Braga is Portugal’s third-largest city, famous for its historical buildings, monuments, gardens, and fountains.
Braga has a smaller expat community than the Algarve, Lisbon, and Porto. That’s part of its appeal—it’s authentic, laid-back, uncrowded, and tranquil.
For instance, Braga is known as the Rome of Portugal because of its numerous churches and religious sites. Pilgrims have journeyed here for centuries. But life in Braga is not all about penance, mass, and homilies…
Last but not least, we recommend the Silver Coast: A 150 mile stretch of beach along the North of Portugal, directly competing with the Algarve Region in the South.
While the weather is not as consistent and idyllic as the Algarve, the Silver Coast is seen as more authentic and is attracting plenty of expats to its beaches.
Health care in Portugal is fantastic. The state provides health care which is free for all citizens and legal residents in Portugal.
The general rule of thumb for health care here is that it is free for all procedures except for dental care and cosmetic surgery.
You can expect to pay minor fees when it comes to visits to the emergency room, your family doctor, or requesting an ambulance (these fees are extremely affordable and range from US$6 to US$22).
Health care in Portugal is made for the people. The health care systems and the medical staff are highly qualified, and the public hospitals in the larger urban cities are equipped with state-of-the-art facilities.
Once you are a resident in Portugal, register yourself with your local health center, your centro de saúde: You will be appointed a family doctor, or put on a waitlist for the next available doctor that will be assigned to you and your family.
For private facilities and primary care facilities, you will also be required to pay for a percentage of the diagnostic exams and the appointments.
While health care in Portugal is free and available to all, you will still be expected to pay some fees.
Most importantly, depending on your needs and whether or not you mind waiting for your turn in public hospitals, it’s a good idea to also get private insurance to balance out the extra fees incurred.
On average, per year, private health insurance in Portugal will run you from US$440 (for a basic plan) to US$1,100 (for a fuller plan).
In conclusion, health care in Portugal is cheap, excellent, and covers everything you would need in an emergency. Add it to the cost of living and you’ll see why Portugal is such a popular retirement destination.
The Algarve Region is the southwesternmost coast of mainland Portugal. Bordering the Atlantic, this is already home to more than 100,000 expats.
What does The Algarve offer? It’s the best of the Old World, from medieval towns and fishing villages to open-air markets and local wine, plus some of Europe’s best beaches.
Nowhere in the world could you embrace a better overall foreign visitors than in Portugal’s Algarve region.
Above all, Algarve arguably boasts some of the world’s greatest weather: It enjoys 3,300 hours of sunshine per year, more than most anywhere else in Europe.
In all, Portugal offers a competitive cost of living, especially when compared with its EU neighbors, an enviable tax situation, and bargains on real estate.
Portugal is a standout in Western Europe for setting one of the lowest qualifying amounts for a resident visa. The amount quoted is equivalent to Portugal’s minimum monthly wage—760 euros (about $820).
However, approval of residency applications is at the discretion of the immigration authority, and for successful applications, it’s recommended that you show a higher monthly income amount.
Most importantly, attorneys in Portugal recommend that applicants be able to prove that they receive a monthly income of at least 1,200 euros (about $1,300).
The income should be passive, coming from sources such as pensions, financial investments, real estate, and so on.
Plus, you’ll also need proof of accommodation in Portugal and proof of health insurance with coverage of at least 30,000 euros (about $32,460), applicable across the EU and valid for one year.
The D7 is a temporary resident permit that is valid for two years and renewable so long as you continue to meet the requirements.
To maintain your Portuguese residency, you must stay in Portugal for at least 16 months during your first 24 months of residency.
After five years of temporary residency, you can apply for permanent residency or citizenship. This makes Portugal one of the quickest, easiest, and most affordable paths to an EU passport.
When traveling or living overseas it is important to learn the local customs and blend into the culture. Rather than imposing your home country’s standards on the locals, try to accept their traditions and expectations.
Tipping can be a controversial topic, especially among people accustomed to a tipping culture.
For example, tipping in Portugal differs from the States and other European destinations and those who choose to spend time in Portugal should learn the local standards.
In general, Portugal is not a tipping culture, there are no established rules, and different people follow different rules.
There is no obligation to tip in restaurants, hotels, bars, or personal service locations like salons and spas. However, a tip is always appreciated by the service provider and tips are more common in tourist areas or places with a high expat population.
To better understand how to tip in Portugal, remember these basic guidelines.
With a tip jar around, leave your change or round your bill to the next euro and leave the difference.
Tip up to 10% of your final bill, but review your check to see if service was already included. Also, when tipping with a credit card, your server may not receive the tip. Try to leave cash for your server if possible.
Tipping a bartender is not customary. But if they are creating complicated cocktails or giving excellent service, round up to the next euro for a tip.
If he helps with your luggage or calls a taxi for you, one euro and a thank you is appropriate.
Tipping one to two euros per bag is appreciated, but tip no more than five euros total.
Tip between five to ten euros for exceptional help booking special events, giving directions, and providing insider information to enhance your stay.
These workers are usually paid at the low end of the pay scale so tipping one to two euros per night goes a long way for them.
Usually no tip is expected, but if he helps with your luggage, you can tip one euro per bag.
You are not expected to tip taxis but they will appreciate it if you round up to the next five euros or pay up to 10% for exceptional service.
If you paid for your tour it is customary to tip five to ten euros for a half-day tour and ten to fifteen euros for a full-day tour. And, if the tour was free, you should tip at least ten euros because this is how the guide is paid.
Tipping tour guides is more common because most people who take tours are visitors who come from a tipping culture.
Tips are not expected, but always appreciated. Between five to ten percent of the final bill would be appropriate.
Again, tips are not expected, but if you receive exceptional service you could tip up to ten percent of your expense.
Unlike some other countries, tipping in Portugal is not expected. If you receive sub-par service, there is no need to tip.
Ask the locals and follow their lead when it comes to tipping situations. By blending into the Portuguese culture you’ll be appreciated by service providers and locals alike.
Thinking about making the move to Portugal?
That’s pretty darn exciting. But, It can also be pretty intimidating to settle in a new place.
Portugal might be a whole lot different than what you’re used to. Here at Live And Invest Overseas we have some insider tips on how to adjust to your new life in this Old World great.
First things first: let’s talk about learning Portuguese.
If you’re coming from the States, you might be thinking, “Who’s got time for that!” But trust me, it’s worth the effort.
Learning Portuguese will show locals that you’re making an effort to fit in, and that can go a long way toward integrating faster and feeling like a local yourself.
Plus, you don’t want to be left in the dark when folks are gabbing away in their native tongue.
There are plenty of resources out there to help you get started, like apps, language exchange programs, and even good ol’ textbooks.
To get started on understanding Portuguese, try joining a local conversation group where you can practice your skills in real-time with native speakers. You might even make some new friends along the way.
Portugal is a pretty relaxed place, but there are still some things you’ll want to keep in mind.
For starters, folks here tend to be more laid-back than your average American. That might mean that customer service is a bit slower or that most people don’t rush around quite as much.
Also, folks here value family and connections, so building relationships is key. Whether you’re at work or just hanging out at the local café, take the time to get to know the people that you meet.
Portugal is full of stunning landscapes and beautiful views, but one thing that stands out is the steep hills all over the country.
From Lisbon to Porto and beyond, Portugal has some of the most dramatic hills in Europe, with breath-taking vistas at every turn.
One of the best ways to get around in Lisbon and Porto is walking, and whether you’re visiting or you choose to live there… get ready to climb. On the other hand, all those pasteis de nata (Portuguese custard tarts) aren’t going to walk themselves off.
In addition to the hills being steep, they’re often tiled. The smooth and polished surfaces provide a unique aesthetic to many Portuguese streets, squares, and sidewalks… However, they can be hazardous if you’re not careful. Walking on them requires extra caution, as it can be easy to slip and fall due to their shiny texture.
The wetter climate in Portugal means that rain and moisture add an additional layer of danger for unsuspecting visitors who aren’t used to walking on such slick surfaces.
With some practice and getting used to their environment, anyone can learn how to walk safely on Portuguese tiles. So, pack your sturdiest and stickiest shoes to tackle the steep and slippery hills.
Sesta time is a cultural quirk that you may have heard about.
While this isn’t universally practiced, it’s common enough for some shops or businesses to close mid-afternoon for a nap or lunch break, which might be from around 1 to 3 p.m.
Portugal has a large and welcoming expat community, with many areas having significant concentrations of foreign residents.
This means it’s usually easy to find people who speak the same language and have similar interests, making the transition easier.
Portugal has a variety of social networks dedicated specifically towards helping new arrivals integrate into society, such as InterNations or ExpatsPortugal, which both offer online forums where you can ask questions or get advice from other expats living in the area.
All this makes it simpler than ever before for newcomers to quickly settle down in Portugal and start enjoying all that this beautiful country has to offer.
The Vasco de Gama Bridge in Lisbon, over the Tagus River. is the longest bridge in Europe at 10.7 miles long.
The oldest bookstore chain in the world, Livraria Bertrand, is from Portugal and was launched in 1732.
Portuguese is spoken by more than 230 million people worldwide and is the official language of nine countries.
Reviewed By Lief Simon
Lief Simon is the managing editor of Global Property Advisor, Simon Letter, and Offshore Living Letter. He has purchased more than 45 properties, investing in 23 different countries around the world.
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We Value Your Privacy! We will not share your email address with anyone else, period.
Portugal is on the Iberian Peninsula, in the southwest corner of Europe. Portugal shares that peninsula Spain, its larger neighbor.
Portugal doesn’t have an age limit on mortgages, but the banks do.
Typically, banks in Europe require a local life insurance policy to guarantee a mortgage.
You can only get a life insurance policy in Europe up to age 70 or 75, depending on the country and the insurance company.
That limits your mortgage term to a maximum of age 75, although I’ve heard of some Portugal banks going to age 80.
Portugal is known for Fado music and also for being the largest cork producer in the world.
Portugal’s high season is during July and August, especially to coastal areas. Expect to pay at least a 30% premium on accommodation and encounter warm weather across the country.
Yes, Portugal is a sought after retirement destination. In fact, it’s one the world’s top retirement havens.
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