Living In The Silver Coast Portugal – that will be the topic of today’s article.

Before introducing this article, if you are interested in our core services which are expat financial, insurance and mortgages, you can contact me here. 

The best time to consider your financial situation is when you are moving to a new country.

Introduction

As living in other parts of the world seems so expensive, many people are looking for a more affordable place to live. The search for the perfect place to live can be tricky, but there are plenty of hidden gems out there. Portugal’s Silver Coast is one of those places.

As we’ve mentioned in our post, Reasons to Move to Portugal‘s Silver Coast, the cost of living is relatively low in this region compared to other parts of Europe. Additionally, the climate is mild year-round, making it a great place to live for those who want to avoid extreme temperatures.

However, it’s quite essential to understand the living cost to anticipate. Moreover, you should ensure you’ll have access to the services and amenities you need before making the move. This includes healthcare, transportation, the internet, and more.

I’m sure you might have many questions regarding day-to-day living on Portugal’s Silver Coast. So, to help you out, we’ve put together this guide that covers everything you need to know about life in this region. Worry less, if you’ve been surfing the web for “what’s it like living in silver coast Portugal,” you’re in the right place.

That being said, we have put together the cost of living in terms of price to expect. Also, we’ll give you some useful tips on how to get by without spending too much. So, are you willing to get a glimpse of what we’ve unleashed? Here’s a breakdown of the cost of living on Portugal’s Silver Coast.

Accommodation

Renting an apartment will be your best option if you’re planning to stay in Portugal for a long time. A one-bedroom apartment in the city center would cost you around $400 per month. If you want a place with more space, you could get a three-bedroom apartment for about $700 per month.

If you want to live in a more rural area, the prices would be much lower. You could rent a three-bedroom house for as little as $500 per month.

Food

Eating out can be quite expensive in Portugal, but it’s still possible to find affordable options. A meal at a mid-range restaurant would cost you about $15 per person. If you’re on a budget, you can find plenty of places to get a meal for less than $10. Groceries are also quite affordable in Portugal. A week’s worth of groceries for one person would cost around $60.

Transportation

Portugal has an excellent public transportation system, and it’s very affordable. A one-way ticket on the bus or train costs about $2. You can also buy a monthly pass for around $40, which gives you unlimited rides. If you’re planning to buy a car, you should expect to pay approximately $10,000 for a used car. Gasoline is also quite affordable in Portugal, costing about $1.50 per liter.

Healthcare

Portugal has high-quality and affordable healthcare. The country has a public healthcare system that is available to all residents. However, you can also choose to get private health insurance if you want. Private insurance starts at around $50 per month.

Education

Portugal has several excellent schools, both public and private. If you’re planning to send your children to a private school, you should pay around $250 per month for each child. Besides, several international schools are also available.

Internet and Phone

The price of internet and phone service in Portugal is relatively affordable compared to other countries. A basic internet plan would cost you around $30 per month. As for phone service, you can expect to pay about $20 per month.

Utilities

Utilities can be somewhat expensive in Portugal, especially during the summer. A typical utility bill for a one-bedroom apartment would cost around $100 per month. However, this price can go up to $200 during the summer months.

Finding Your Dream Job on Silver Coast

Finding your dream job in Silver Coast can be an exciting and daunting proposition. There are many factors to consider when looking for work in this beautiful region of Portugal, but with a bit of planning and research, you can surely find the perfect position.

One crucial aspect to keep in mind when seeking employment is the local economy. The region is home to a number of industries, including tourism, agriculture, and fishing. As such, job prospects will vary depending on the sector, you wish to work in.

However, it is important to have a clear idea of what you would like to do before beginning your search. Another thing to keep in mind is the language barrier. While many people in Silver Coast speak English, Portuguese is the predominant language.

This way, it would be beneficial to learn at least some basics before arriving in the region. Inspite of that, let’s quickly take a look at the ways to get jobs in this region as an expat.

1.    Utilize Online Job Search Engines

This is one of the first things you should do when looking for work in any region. A quick search on Google or indeed will reveal a number of job openings in the Silver Coast region. In fact, you can even set up alerts for specific keywords so that you are notified as soon as a new job is posted.

2.    Get In Touch With Recruitment Agencies

Recruitment agencies play a crucial role in connecting job seekers with potential employers. Many of these agencies have a presence in the Silver Coast region and can help you find work in your desired sector. Also, they are an excellent resource for learning about job openings that may not be advertised online.

3.    Attend Job Fairs

Another great way to find work in this part of the world is to attend local job fairs. These events provide an excellent opportunity to meet with potential employers and learn about available positions. Additionally, you can use these occasions to network with other professionals in your field.

4.    Use Social Media

Social media platforms like LinkedIn can be beneficial when looking for work. Many companies now use these sites to post job openings, and you can use them to connect with potential employers. Aside from this fact, LinkedIn is also a great way to build your professional network.

5.    Consider Freelance Work

In today’s digital world, there are a number of ways to find freelance work. Silver Coast is no different, and there are a number of businesses that are looking for talented freelancers. If you have a specific skill set, this can be an excellent way to find work in the region.

Best Tourist Attractions in Silver Coast

The Portuguese “Venice” in Aveiro

With its canals, colorful boats, and bridges, Aveiro has been nicknamed the “Portuguese Venice.” Located in the Silver Coast, this city is a must-see for anyone visiting Portugal. Aveiro is known for its unique architecture and picturesque views. The city center is filled with beautiful buildings and monuments. The main attraction is the Praça do Peixe, a fish-shaped square in the center of town.

The Sanctuary of Our Lady of Nazaré

The Sanctuary of Our Lady of Nazaré is one of the most popular pilgrimage sites in Portugal. Located in the Silver Coast town of Nazaré, this sanctuary is dedicated to the Virgin Mary. The sanctuary is a beautiful and peaceful place to visit, with stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Visitors can also explore the nearby caves, which are said to have been used by the Virgin Mary.

The Silver Coast Beaches

One of the best things about the Silver Coast is its beaches. With over 100 kilometers of coastline, there are plenty of beaches to choose from. Some of the most popular beaches include Praia da Rocha, Praia do Alvor, and Praia da Luz. These beaches are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and surfing.

The Castle of Leiria

The Castle of Leiria is a must-see for anyone interested in history and architecture. This castle was built in the 12th century and has been well-preserved. The castle is located on a hilltop, providing visitors with stunning views of the city of Leiria. Visitors can also explore the castle grounds, including a museum, gardens, and a chapel.

The Tomar Synagogue

The Tomar Synagogue is one of the most important historical sites in Portugal. This synagogue was built in the 15th century and is one of the oldest synagogues in Europe. The synagogue is a beautiful and unique building with a rich history. Visitors can explore the synagogue, learn about its history, and see the ancient artifacts on display.

Pros and Cons of Living in Silver Coast as an Expat

There are many reasons why people decide to move abroad, and the Silver Coast in Portugal is a popular destination for those looking for a new life. It’s not hard to see why – the region has a lot to offer, from its stunning coastline to its friendly locals. However, there are also some potential downsides to living in Silver Coast as an expat. Here are some of the pros and cons to consider before making a move.

PROS

Beautiful Scenery

The Silver Coast is renowned for its natural beauty, with miles of coastline to explore and plenty of green space inland. If you’re looking for a place to relax and enjoy nature, this is definitely the place for you.

Friendly Locals

Another big plus of living in Silver Coast is the friendly locals. Portugal is known for its hospitable people, and you’ll find this to be true in Silver Coast as well. From your neighbors to shopkeepers, people here are generally very helpful and welcoming.

Affordable Cost Of Living

Compared to other popular expat destinations, the Silver Coast has a relatively low cost of living. This is great news if you’re on a tight budget or just want to stretch your money further. Moreover, Portugal has a sound healthcare system and public transportation network, so you can be sure you’ll be well taken care of if you move here.

CONS

Language Barrier

Although English is widely spoken in Portugal, you may still find it challenging to get by without at least some basic Portuguese. This can be a barrier to making friends, getting a job, or even just doing everyday tasks like grocery shopping.

Isolation

Another potential downside of living in Silver Coast is the isolation you may feel. The region is quite rural, so if you’re used to living in a big city, it may take some time to adjust. There are also fewer expats here than in other parts of Portugal, so it can be harder to find people in similar situations.

Weather

Finally, the weather in Silver Coast is worth mentioning. The summers here are beautiful, but the winters can be quite cold and wet. If you’re not a fan of the cold, this may not be the place for you. So, be ready for some drastic changes in temperature if you move here.

Interesting Facts about Silver Coast Cultures and Traditions

When it comes to Silver Coast Portugal, there is so much to learn about its cultures and traditions. This region is known for its unique history and culture. With that said, here are some interesting facts about Silver Coast Portugal’s cultures and traditions:

• The Silver Coast of Portugal has been inhabited since the Palaeolithic era
• The Celts founded the first human settlement in the region in the 4th century BC
• The Romans occupied the region from the 2nd century BC to the 5th century AD
• During the Middle Ages, the Silver Coast was ruled by the Moors.
• In the 12th century, the first Portuguese king, Afonso Henriques, conquered the region from the Moors.

7 Types of Jobs Available For Expats in the Silver Coast

Apart from the fact that  Silver coast offers low job opportunities to expatriates, many of which are in the customer service, catering and retail sectors. Below are some popular types of jobs that expats often take up while living in the Silver Coast.

Customer Service Representative

As a customer service representative, you will be the first point of contact between a company and its customers. You will be responsible for handling customer inquiries and complaints, providing information about products and services, and promoting sales. Customer service representatives need to have excellent communication and interpersonal skills, as well as patience and calmness under pressure.

Retail Sales Assistant

As a retail sales assistant, you will be responsible for assisting customers and carrying out various tasks in a retail environment. These tasks may include stock control, cashier duties, and helping customers with their purchases. Retail sales assistants need good customer service skills and work well under pressure.

Restaurant waiter/waitress

If you want to work as a waitress, you should know that this job requires a lot of patience and hard work. You will be responsible for taking orders, serving food and drinks, and cleaning tables. Waitresses need to have good people skills and be able to work long hours on their feet.

Chef

As a chef, you will be responsible for preparing and cooking food in a restaurant or hotel kitchen. You will need to have good culinary skills and work well under pressure. In addition, chefs need to follow instructions and know food safety and hygiene regulations.

Hotel Receptionist

This is also another job to which expatriates in the Silver coast can apply. As a hotel receptionist, your work may include; handling customer enquiries, making reservations, and checking guests in and out of the hotel. You will need to have good customer service skills and work well under pressure.

Tour Guide

If you are knowledgeable about the history and culture of the Silver coast, you may be able to find work as a tour guide. As a tour guide, you will be responsible for showing tourists around the city and providing them with information about the sights and attractions. You will need to have good people skills and speak English fluently.

English Teacher

English teaching is one of the most popular jobs for expatriates in the Silver Coast. As an English teacher, you will be responsible for teaching English to students of all levels. You will need to have a good knowledge of the English language and speak it fluently. In addition, you will need to be patient and can explain things clearly.

Things People Will Not Tell You about Silver Coast

The Weather Is Really Unpredictable

Of course, everyone knows that the weather is unpredictable. But what people don’t tell you is just how unpredictable it can be. One minute it can be sunny and hot, and the next minute it could be raining or even snowing. This can make it difficult to plan, especially if you’re trying to book a vacation or travel there for business.

There Are a Lot of Tourists, But Not Many Locals

While the Silver Coast does attract many tourists, there aren’t actually that many locals. This is because it’s a popular retirement destination for foreigners, and many people who own property there don’t actually live there full-time. So, if you’re looking for a place to really get to know the locals, this may not be the best place.

The Nightlife Isn’t Really That Great

The nightlife on the Silver Coast is pretty limited, especially compared to other parts of Portugal. There are a few bars and clubs, but nothing that stays open too late or gets too crazy. If you’re looking for a party destination, you might want to look elsewhere.

It’s Quite Expensive To Live Here

While the cost of living isn’t as high as in some other parts of Europe, it is still relatively expensive compared to other places in Portugal. This is especially true if you’re looking to rent or buy property.

Frequently Asked Questions about Silver Coast

How do I get to Silver Coast?

The best way to get to Silver Coast is by flying into Lisbon airport and then making your way to the nearby town of Leiria. From there, it is a short drive to the coast. Moreover, you can also take a bus or a train from Lisbon to Leiria.

What is the weather like in Silver Coast?

Just as we’ve mentioned earlier, the Silver Coast has a temperate climate, which means that the weather is mild and pleasant all year round. The average temperature in summer is around 25 degrees Celsius, while in winter, it hovers around 15 degrees Celsius.

How affordable is the cost of living?

The cost of living in Silver Coast is quite affordable. In fact, it is one of the most affordable coastal areas in Portugal. Expenses such as food, accommodation, and transportation are relatively low when compared to other parts of the country.

What kind of food can I expect?

The food in Silver Coast is quite varied. There are many seafood restaurants, as well as traditional Portuguese eateries. You can also find international cuisine in some larger towns and cities.

What’s the best time to visit the silver coast?

The best time to visit Silver Coast is during the summer months. This is when the weather is at its finest, and the beaches are busiest. However, if you are looking for a more relaxed atmosphere, then the shoulder seasons of spring and autumn may be more ideal.

What’s the nightlife like?

We mentioned earlier that the nightlife in Silver Coast is quite vibrant. There are many bars and clubs to choose from, as well as live music venues. Whether you’re looking to party all night or just have a few drinks with friends, you’ll be sure to find something to suit your taste.

Conclusion

As an expat, you should know that the benefits of living in the Silver coast cannot be overemphasized. It has a temperate climate which makes the weather mild and pleasant all year round. The cost of living is quite affordable, and food is also quite varied in many seafood restaurants. So, why waiting? Hurry now and book your flight ticket to Silver coast today!

Before introducing this article, if you are interested in our core services which are expat financial, insurance and mortgages, you can contact me here. 

The best time to consider your financial situation is when you are moving to a new country.

Introduction

Just like any other country, Portugal has a lot of things to offer expatriates. With the warm weather, mountains, low cost of living, Atlantic oceans, the benefits of living in Portugal cannot be overemphasized. Also, Residents are offered tax exemptions with free education and a healthcare system.

Whenever you imagine the old Europe, medieval town halls, crenelated castles on hilltops, Portugal should be the first thing in your mind. Not in a touristy contrived way but as the standard day-to-day life in the country. Moreover, the locals are quite friendly, and the country itself is a magical destination.

Now, you’d be wondering why Portugal is a magical destination for expats, right. Well, we can tell you that the people of Portugal are what make the country a magical nation to retire. More so, its excellent infrastructures, education system, and healthcare are as advanced as what you’ll find anywhere in the world.

Like many other countries around the Mediterranean, Portugal produces good food, olive oil, and wine, at an affordable price. Not only that, but Portugal is arguably Western Europe’s most affordable country. Even with the capital city, the country is rightly famous. Of course, you may have an idea of what you’re looking for.

However, we extend our research by bringing you the best things you’d want to know about Portugal. In this article, we will walk you through the pros and cons of living in Portugal. Aside from this fact, you’ll understand the interesting facts about this country, the national public holidays, and many others, to mention a few.

Top 10 Interesting Facts about Living in Portugal

While the award of the oldest nation-state in Europe goes to Portugal, Lisbon is as well seen to be among the four centuries older than Rome. Due to its excellent trading location, the Portuguese were the first Europeans to reach Japan in the 16^th century. Without further ado, below are the fun facts about living in Portugal as of 2021.

1.    Longest Reigning Monarchs

Undoubtedly, Portugal holds the record for the shortest and the longest-reigning monarchs. From research and recommendation, we found out that Henrique of Portugal was the king of Portugal for more than 73 years. On the other hand, Luis Filipe was the king for only 20 minutes before he was dismissed.

2.    Home to the Oldest Bookstore

If you take a trip to Portugal’s capital, Lisbon, you’ll definitely see an abundance of independent bookstores crammed into its tiled streets. As a nation of book lovers, it comes as no surprise that the oldest bookstore in the world can be found in the country. On the flip side, the Bertrand brand has become the largest bookstore chain in Portugal, with more than 50 shops.

3.    Home to Oldest Countries in Europe

Portugal has had the same defined border as history revealed, making it the oldest nation-state in Europe. Afonso Henriques was proclaimed the first king in 1139. In addition to this fact, we discovered that the country has since then remained a kingdom for almost 800 years until a successful revolution.

4.    A Dead Queen ruled Portugal

According to research, Portugal used to be ruled by a dead queen. In fact, being a monarch for like eight centuries, you can safely bet that there were some weird rulers on the Portuguese throne. This monarchy often exercises its governing power through something that could affect the locals and expats. The problem was, the new queen was killed, and this didn’t stop her reigns as she remained coronated.

5.    Home Known as a Surfing Paradise

If you’ve been searching for the country with the best surfing experience, look no further. Portugal is one of the places in Europe to go surfing. Compared to other European countries, the country’s 800km coastline and mild climate have been drawing surfers from all over the world for many years.

To make Portugal extra special, we can say that it’s home to the Nazare resort town. While you may have never heard of it, we’re pretty sure there’s no surfer on the planet who’s not dreaming of hitting the mythical Nazare waves in Portugal. And pretty because it’s the place where McNamara set a record!

6.    Land of Affordable Port-Wine

If you’re a wine enthusiast, you probably already know that Portugal has an interesting thing that you’d likely enjoy. Since the country is known as the land of wines, you should expect more. in fact, the country’s national drink, the Port Wine, is made in a magical UNESCO recognized valley which can be found pretty much everywhere.

7.    Portuguese Love To Set Records

Portugal is known as the record beaters as they love to set records. Some of the records they’ve set in the past include; smallest newspaper in the world, the largest Aletria, the most espressos made in an hour, the largest human image, the largest Santa Claus parade, most piano hits in a minute, and many others.

8.    Most Sun-Kissed Country

Portugal, as of today, is one of the most sun-kissed countries in Europe. Aside from this fact, have it in mind that it’s only the tiny islands of Cyprus and Malta that get more sunshine hours than Portugal. Again, with more than 300 sunny days per year and countless beaches to explore, this country is definitely a prime contender for a summer beach vacation.

9.    Virgin Mary Visitation

History made it known that Virgin Mary once visited Portugal. From our research, the miracle happened in May 1917 in the town of Fatima. This visitation was witnessed by three shepherd children who reported a meeting with a lady more brilliant than the sun. Apparently, the crowd observed the sun dancing in an unusual zigzag while immediately drying their rain-soaked clothes.

10. Home to Oldest University in Europe

The University of Coimbra, established in 1920, was ranked as one of the oldest universities on the continent. Located in the historic city of Coimbra, this university is home to over 21,000 students, 10 percent of whom are international students. And this places the university among Portugal’s most international universities and lends the city a cosmopolitan feel with affordable school fees.

Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal

Expats moving abroad often lose themselves in the process of making the right decision about moving from their home country. While this can be a natural part of acclimatization, it’s better not to get too bogged down in what others perceive to be negative about visiting the country. To clear the doubt, we have compiled the pros and cons of living in this country. Now, check it out to know what works best.

Pros

Friendly Locals

People in Portugal are very friendly to locals and expatriates. With this in mind, you should know that visitors and expats alike will find a warm and welcoming culture during their first visitation to the country. Though many people in the country don’t speak English, but you’ll find them helpful to newbies.

Low Cost Of Living in Portugal

Just like other countries in Europe, the cost of living in the country is pretty much lower. Even in the city center of Lisbon, the capital and most bustling city in Portugal, rent is quite cheap compared to the amount of rent in New York City and London. That’s way; it’s easy to buy property as the country is suffering from a major economic downturn.

Portugal’s Attractive Tax Policy

Portugal’s attractive tax policy is another reason to relocate to the country. When compared to other countries, you’ll see that there are attracting investors, self-employed professionals, intellectual property owners, scientific researchers, and expatriates enjoying tax benefits for years.

High Standard of Living

Towards the end of 2019, the Social Progress Index placed Portugal in 18^th on the best countries ahead of other nations such as France, England, Spain, and Austria. Moreover, the country stood out because of its performance in terms of freedoms, guarantees, right, and being considered an inclusive nation.

However, Forbes Magazine ranked Portugal as one of the best places to live your retirement years. Not only that, but it’s also referred to as the easiest and safest country in the world.

Diverse Cultural Uniqueness

Portugal has a rich culture that makes it different from other countries in Europe. As expected, for a country with such a long history, their cultural life is extremely interesting and very intense. More so, theatre, shows, international exhibitions, and stage comedies entice expats to relocate to the country. And besides, the country imbibes the cultures of resident communities of Latin America, Africa, and Asia.

Great Weather Conditions

Portugal is a popular holiday destination among many expats in the world. With that being said, expatriates can enjoy one of the most stable climates in the world. However, in the south of Lisbon, there are over 300 days of sunshine per year, meaning more sunny days than anywhere in Europe. With this fact, Portugal has a longstanding reputation as a top summer destination among European sun-seekers.

Affordable and Spacious Properties

As an ex-pat, this is an important thing to consider when relocating to another country. While accommodation is an essential factor, you should be willing to buy a house in the long run. In Portugal, you can choose whatever kind of spacious apartment that you want. This is because; many charming properties are available, and there’s a growing trend towards heritage-style apartments.

Cons

Language Barrier

Language barrier seems to be of the major problems expat could face while relocating to Portugal. This is because; there are few native English speakers in the country, and Portuguese is quite difficult to understand and learn for a foreigner. And more so, alternative language makes the language even harder to master.

Low Wages/Salaries (Labour Market)

As of today, Portuguese salaries have been ranked low compared to other European countries. With advances in distance working and online resources, it’s easier to keep living in one country and working in another, which helps to overcome the salary gap. The truth is that there are a number of new opportunities arising in Portugal, but the problem still remains low wages and salaries are given to expats.

Essential Travel Tips to Portugal

If you’ve never been to Portugal, the essential tips could be among the things you’ve been looking for. While you might even fall in love with several outdoor activities in the country, it is better to prepare and make your first trip go as smoothly as possible. Without much talk, below are some of the travel tips.

• Before you travel to Portugal, try and avoid the busiest, hottest, and most expensive months of July and August if possible. Moreover, you’ll likely find great deals and good weather with fewer crowds if you travel to the country off-season.
• If you’re making your own travel arrangements, ensure you have your accommodation booked before time. And if you’re planning to use public transport for transfers, there’s a need to get there on time.
• More and more destinations in Portugal offer a tourist cards for discounts. With that being said, cities such as Lisbon could give you discounted public transport and discount on all manner of typical holiday expenditures.
• Double-check that your document is complete. In fact, ensure that your passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond the date of travel if coming from outside the EU.
• If you’re planning to rent a car to get around in Portugal, don’t forget that your driving license is essential. Meanwhile, you may need an International Driver’s Permit to check with the rental company and confirm your trip.
• Ensure you have some local currency on you when you arrive in the country. But if you do land in Portugal without Euros, there are ATMs in all international airports and towns to withdraw Euros directly from your bank account
• If possible you might have to exchange your money before traveling to Portugal, try to avoid bringing large bills of more than 50 Euros.

Cost of Living in Portugal

Since Portugal remains one of the most reasonably priced countries in Western Europe, you should know that it offers a comfortable lifestyle to many expats. However, this guide provides an in-depth overview of what you’ll likely expect in Portugal.

With an enviable climate, affordable cost of living, and stunning landscapes, this country is a growing reputation amongst expats. Although living in some parts of Western Europe can be very expensive for expats unless you earn a good salary. But Portugal breaks the mold and offers affordable living.

Additionally, you can see that busses are the most widely-used public transportation if you’re living in Portugal. With this in mind, you should keep in mind that the cost of bus tickets ranges from €1 to €6 respectively. Besides, most location in urban areas could even offer a cheaper cost. And when it comes to education in Portugal, you’ll pay an average of €400-500 per month from primary to high school.

Furthermore, public universities are quite cheaper compared to private universities in the country. For public universities, there’s a fee limit that changes every year, and you’ll need to be aware of that. And when it comes to healthcare in this country, the fee is usually between €5-20 if not free.

Suitable Places to Live in Portugal

Portugal is an expat-friendly country with spectacular beaches, historic fishing villages, and safe cities. Now, the question is; where is the best place to live in the country? Many people have taken to the internet to express their opinion. But, guess what! We’ve got you covered by revealing the places here.

Lisbon

Our explanation doesn’t imply the best places for expats to live, but we’re considering the best city in the country. Lisbon is the first on our list because it’s a diverse city with thriving cultural heritage, beautiful historical centers, and it has an excellent choice for anybody wanting the buzz of a big city. Some of the pros of living in Lisbon include high-quality education, safety, and being family-friendly.

Porto

Porto has also made it to the top five on our list. This place is often overlooked by expats moving to Portugal because it’s located in the north. However, this beautiful city should not be ruled out because it is perfect for families and it’s also a cheaper option compared to Lisbon. Also, Porto is famous for its port wine, colorful streets, and incredible local gastronomy. Some of the pros of living in Porto include; great healthcare system, safety, and affordability.

Braga

Braga is also one of Portugal’s oldest cities and a great option for cheaper and smaller cities, unlike Lisbon and Porto. In fact, it’s more and more becoming a popular destination for expats. Aside from this fact, Braga is known for its lively nightlife, rich history, and home to the oldest cathedrals in Portugal. Some of the pros of living in Braga include; great healthcare, less tourist, and affordability.

Funchal (Madeira)

Funchal isn’t a destination that expats would think of. But, this city is becoming increasingly popular, especially with remote workers who have chosen island life as their choice of destination. As the island’s biggest city, Funchal is an up-and-coming city that offers a beautiful setting with warm weather all year around. Again, this island is not overrun with tourists, and it suffered less in the coronavirus pandemic. Some of the pros of living in this city include; beautiful environment, family-friendly, and more.

Ponta Delgada (the Azores)

From one Portuguese island to another, the Azores seem to be one of the best places to live in the world. The island’s beauty makes this city one of the best places to live in Portugal. Like Funchal, the Azores is not too touristy, but it’s more expensive in terms of the cost of living and sustainable tourism initiatives. Some of the pros of living in this city include; good air quality and beautiful surroundings.

Tradition and Cultures in Portugal

Undoubtedly, Portugal is a predominantly Roman Catholic country with a close-knit family ethic and religious background. The country is rich in culture, resulting from many influences, including Celtic, Visigoth, Moorish, and Germanic. In recent decades, Portugal has also undergone a renaissance in the arts, and the cities have all been designated as the European capitals of culture.

Meanwhile, the Portuguese have a deep-seated appreciation of arts. And this is why cities like Lisbon, Braga, Porto, and the university town of Coimbra feature many museums. This means, if you’re looking for a trendy art gallery, look no further because Arte AFK, located in the north of Lisbon, is the best.

However, when it comes to music, Fado and folk music with dancing are Portugal’s most important forms of musical expression. In fact, we can tell you that Fado is on the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage List. Besides, Lisbon’s style is more popular in Western Europe and other countries.

Festivals and Holidays in Portugal

In towns and villages, year-round cultural activities is a popular thing in the country, and it often revolves around food. Meanwhile, there are festivals of oil, garlic, bread, cheese, wine, and many others, to mention a few. Also, carnivals are widely celebrated, not just on Fat Tuesday before the Roman Catholic but for several days. In June, festivals dedicated to Saints Anthony and Peter take place.

Additionally, Saint Martin’s Day is celebrated on November 11, part of three days called Saint Martin’s summer, usually a period with lovely weather. However, Christmas, Natal, is a family affair that’s celebrated with traditional Portuguese food.

Conclusion

Of course, everyone is certainly different as the Portuguese like to talk. Well, as an expat, this could be an opportunity to make new friends. As one of the oldest nations in Europe, there is more to explore in this country. In summary, read this guide carefully to get a glimpse of what living in Portugal entails.