Portugal is a popular destination among holidaymakers and expats alike, as it provides sunny weather, a laidback lifestyle, delicious cuisine and vibrant nightlife – not to mention it’s just a short-haul flight from the UK.
Research by Global Citizens Solutions found that Portugal is “one of the best places to live overseas”.
Travel experts at Global Citizens Solutions said: “Portugal is rated as one of the best countries to live for expats.”
In addition to its warm climate and languid lifestyle, Portugal seems to provide a safe, happy life for people that move there. Experts said: “It scores highly on the Quality of Life Index, cost of living, personal safety reports, and friendliness of locals towards expats.”
Portugal provides a more leisurely lifestyle than the UKGETTY IMAGESPortugal is a diverse, versatile European treasure. It’s ideal for Britons who want to relax on the beach, but it’s also great for adventurers, as it boasts plenty of varied hiking trails.
There is something for everyone. Take a stroll through charming Alfama, observe the fairytale-esque Qunita de Regaleira, and be mesmerised in the world-renowned Oceanário de Lisboa aquarium. Enjoy countryside, beaches and bustling cities.
Britons thinking of relocating to Portugal can rest assured that they will not struggle to communicate with Portuguese locals, as citizens typically have a high English proficiency.
Public transport is also accessible, so Britons will not necessarily need to drive if they do not want to. Large towns and cities are particularly efficient when it comes to public transport. Portugal blog Portugalist warned that in places like Madeira and The Azores, things can be a little trickier, however.
Popular spots for expats in Portugal
- The Algarve
- Cascais and Estoril
- Central Portugal
- Lisbon
- Porto
While Portugal is a very attractive prospect for retirees looking to enjoy a leisurely lifestyle, it also provides a dynamic corporate lifestyle for those still working. The experts reassured potential expats that “career prospects are abundant in major cities”.
For those who have young children, expat families can benefit from “superb international schools”.
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Colourful Porto is one of the oldest cities in Europe, and very popular among expats
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Expatica said: “You’ll find several dozen international schools in Portugal catering primarily to expats, so finding a school for your child shouldn’t be too difficult. Generally, these are clustered around the expat hubs of Lisbon, Porto, and the Algarve coast.”
However, Britons looking to relocate to Portugal were warned that because the educational system offers different education stages, a particular international school may accept students in particular cycles and not in others. Britons must make sure they do their research to check their child qualifies for entry into a school.
For those considering Portugal for their next home, one expat revealed what she “wishes she had known” before moving. She warned that Britons will need to learn “patience”.
Aside from Portugal, Spain, Greece, Cyprus and Malta are also popular options for expats who want to live in Europe.
Portugal provides a more leisurely lifestyle than the UKGETTY IMAGES
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