Relocating to a new country is both exciting and daunting. You have to consider so many things when deciding if moving to Portugal is right for you. One of those is access to healthcare and although as a resident, you are entitled to access the state health system, sometimes it’sRead More →
Over the past decade, Lisbon has become one of the most popular destinations for expats in Europe. Perfect weather, vibrant culture and stunning scenery, especially alongside Portugal’s liberal visa policies make life in Lisbon appealing for people from all backgrounds. So where are the best neighbourhoods to live in LisbonRead More →
Having lived and worked in several different countries besides Portugal, both myself and expat coach, Deborah Dahab, are well aware that relocating is a stressful, life-changing event. Especially when you have family members to consider, both ones who may be coming with you and those you are leaving behind. There’sRead More →
If you’re going to be spending Christmas in Portugal, or New Year, and don’t know what to expect, this post is for you. Find out how and where to celebrate, how the Portuguese do things and what events are going on during the festive season, updated for 2021. Portuguese familyRead More →
If you’re moving to Portugal or buying property here, you won’t get far without a NIF number. NIF stands for Número de Indentificação Fiscal, i.e. Tax Identification Number but is most commonly referred to as a NIF (pronounced niff) or (número de) Contribuinte, i.e. Taxpayer number. Note: If you alreadyRead More →
If you’ve already visited Portugal, you might be seriously smitten and imagining yourself moving to Portugal. Or perhaps your dream of living abroad is still a seed of an idea and you haven’t decided on a country or location yet. If so, there’s a strong chance that Portugal will beRead More →
Do you really need to learn European Portuguese if you’re coming to Portugal? The short answer is yes. Even if it’s only how to say please and thank you. How far you go beyond the basics in Portuguese will depend on many factors but if you’re planning to spend anyRead More →
When I first moved to Portugal, I was nervous about driving here. Portuguese drivers have a bad reputation plus I hadn’t driven for years and never on the right hand side of the road. Even so, I was determined to get a car so that I could take road tripsRead More →
Eating out in Portugal is usually a very enjoyable, relatively straightforward and affordable experience. Even so, knowing what’s standard practice for ordering in Portuguese restaurants, cafés, bakeries and bars will help you order with confidence and avoid leaving with a nasty taste in your mouth. Find out when to eat,Read More →