Apart from being able to fit right in with the Portuguese, there are many reasons why the British prefer to say goodbye to the UK to live in the 6th safest country in the world.
Rain and snow aren’t for everyone, and that’s just one reason why ex-pats relocate. You could say the weather tops most of the reasons, especially for people who had never gotten used to the weather in the UK.
Let’s talk about the 10 reasons, one by one, why British people decide to move to Portugal!
Portugal is a country that boasts some of the most breathtaking and diverse landscapes in the world. From its stunning coastline to its rolling hills and majestic mountain ranges, Portugal has something to offer for everyone who loves nature and adventure.
Starting with the coast, the country is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in Europe, with miles of pristine sand, crystal-clear waters and rugged cliffs that drop dramatically into the sea. The Algarve region, in the south of Portugal, is especially renowned for its stunning coastline, dotted with picturesque fishing villages and charming seaside resorts.
Moving inland, the landscape changes to rolling hills dotted with vineyards, olive groves, and fields of wildflowers. The Alentejo region is especially famous for its expansive plains, dotted with traditional cork oak trees and white-washed villages, that create a timeless and peaceful atmosphere.
Further north, the landscape becomes more dramatic, with the Serra da Estrela mountain range reaching heights of over 1,000 meters and providing some of the most breathtaking views in the country. The mountains are also home to some of Portugal's most iconic natural parks, such as the Parque Nacional da Peneda-Gerês, where visitors can hike
In UK, the cost of living is much higher than in Portugal even in the most affordable cities of the country. Whether it's as simple as buying a coffee or the menu of the day, to traveling around the country by train. British may raise an eyebrow in surprise at the sheer affordability of sunny Portugal.
Compared to many other countries in Europe, the cost of housing, food, and other everyday expenses is quite reasonable, allowing for a comfortable standard of living without breaking the bank.
Housing in Portugal is generally more affordable than in other European countries, with a wide range of options available to suit different budgets and lifestyles. Whether you're looking for a small apartment, a traditional townhouse, or a spacious villa, you're sure to find something that meets your needs and budget.
Food is also relatively cheap in Portugal, with a variety of fresh produce, meats, and seafood readily available at local markets and supermarkets. Eating out is also affordable, with many local restaurants serving up delicious, hearty meals at reasonable prices.
In addition to housing and food, other everyday expenses, such as transportation and utilities, are also relatively low in Portugal. This allows residents to enjoy a comfortable standard of living without having to worry about excessive bills or unexpected costs.
Overall, the low cost of living in Portugal makes it an attractive destination for those looking to live, work, or retire abroad. With its warm climate, beautiful scenery, and rich cultural heritage, Portugal offers a great quality of life at an affordable price.
The Portuguese are well known for their genuine and friendly spirits. So much, so that a recent survey, by ex-pat insiders, recently placed them as the friendliest group of people in the world.
This warmth and hospitality is a defining characteristic of the Portuguese culture, and it's something that visitors to the country are likely to experience first-hand.
One of the key elements of the Portuguese spirit is a strong sense of community. Whether it's a group of neighbors chatting on the street, or a group of friends sharing a meal, people in Portugal have a strong bond that helps to create a warm and inclusive atmosphere.
This friendliness extends to visitors as well, with many locals going out of their way to help those in need. Whether it's providing directions, making recommendations, or just chatting, the Portuguese are always happy to lend a hand and make newcomers feel at ease.
The Portuguese also have a strong appreciation for the arts, and their culture is rich with music, dance, and other forms of expression. This love of the arts is reflected in the many festivals and cultural events that take place throughout the year, showcasing the best of what the country has to offer.
Move to a place where you will feel welcomed while the Portuguese will certainly make you feel at home.
If you are planning to move with your family, Portugal is an excellent option. There are very good international schools in the country, particularly in Lisbon and Porto.
One of the standout features of international schools in Portugal is the diversity of their student bodies, with students from all over the world coming together to learn and grow in a supportive and inclusive environment. This diversity allows students to broaden their perspectives and develop a deeper understanding of different cultures and perspectives.
In terms of academic excellence, international schools in Portugal are known for their high standards and rigorous curricula. These schools place a strong emphasis on critical thinking, problem-solving, and hands-on learning, preparing students for success both in their studies and in their future careers.
The schools are also well-equipped with state-of-the-art facilities and resources, including modern classrooms, science labs, libraries, and sports facilities. These resources help to create a dynamic and engaging learning environment, where students can explore their passions and interests and develop new skills.
The staff at international schools in Portugal are highly qualified and experienced, and they are dedicated to helping students reach their full potential. With small class sizes and a supportive learning environment, students are able to receive the individual attention and guidance they need to succeed.
International schools in Portugal offer a high-quality education that is designed to prepare students for success in an increasingly globalized world. With their strong academic programs, diverse student bodies, and supportive learning environments, these schools provide an excellent option for families looking for an international education for their children.
In America, as in many other countries, you can get into the habit of jumping from one thing to the next. We're not going to pretend that Portugal is all sunshine and rainbows but one thing that the Portuguese excel at is their ability to take time to appreciate the little things. There is a certain kind of peace that comes with just soaking it all.
Portugal is widely regarded as a country with a high quality of life, offering residents a warm and sunny climate, beautiful scenery, and a rich cultural heritage. This combination of factors has made Portugal a popular destination for those looking to live, work, or retire abroad, and it's something that visitors are sure to appreciate and remember long after they've gone home.
In terms of scenery, Portugal is a country of incredible natural beauty, with miles of pristine beaches, rolling hills, and rugged mountains. This landscape provides a stunning backdrop to daily life, and it's something that residents are able to enjoy year-round.
Another highlight of life in Portugal is the country's rich cultural heritage, with a rich history and vibrant cultural scene that encompasses music, dance, and the arts. This culture is celebrated in the many festivals and events that take place throughout the year, showcasing the best of what the country has to offer.
In terms of quality of life, Portugal also offers a number of practical benefits, such as a relatively low cost of living, excellent healthcare, and a high standard of living. These factors, combined with the country's warm and welcoming spirit, make Portugal a great place to call home.
Overall, the quality of life in Portugal is something that is hard to beat. With its warm and sunny climate, beautiful scenery, rich cultural heritage, and high standard of living, it's no wonder that so many people are drawn to this enchanting country.
Let's not forget the non-habitual residence scheme where, if structured correctly, you can gain generous tax benefits for a 10-year period. Perfect for British moving to the country.
The Non-Habitual Residence Scheme (NHR) in Portugal is a tax program that was introduced to attract high net worth individuals, entrepreneurs, and foreign professionals to the country. The scheme provides these individuals with a special tax status, which allows them to take advantage of Portugal's favorable tax regime for a period of ten years.
Under the NHR program, qualifying individuals are exempt from paying Portuguese tax on certain types of foreign-sourced income, including pensions, rental income, and certain professional services. Additionally, the program also offers a reduced tax rate on other types of income, such as dividends and capital gains, making it an attractive option for those looking to minimize their tax liability.
To qualify for the NHR program, individuals must be resident in Portugal for 183 days or more per year, and they must not have been tax resident in the country in the preceding five years. Additionally, the individual must prove that they have no intention of remaining in Portugal beyond the ten-year NHR period.
One of the standout features of the NHR program is its simplicity and ease of use. Individuals who wish to take advantage of the scheme simply need to apply through the Portuguese tax authorities, and once they have been approved, they can start enjoying the benefits of the program immediately.
The NHR program has been highly successful in attracting high net worth individuals and entrepreneurs to Portugal, and it has helped to bolster the country's economy by providing it with a steady stream of investment and talent. Additionally, it has also made Portugal an attractive destination for those looking to retire abroad, with its warm climate, beautiful scenery, and excellent quality of life.
In conclusion, the Non-Habitual Residence Scheme in Portugal is a tax program that provides individuals with a special tax status, allowing them to take advantage of Portugal's favorable tax regime for a period of ten years. With its simplicity, ease of use, and favorable tax benefits, the NHR program is an excellent option for those looking to minimize their tax liability while enjoying all that Portugal has to offer.
Portugal is renowned for its warm and sunny climate, making it an ideal destination for those looking to escape colder climates and enjoy a more relaxed, outdoor lifestyle. With temperatures that average in the mid-60s to low-70s (°F) throughout the year, it's easy to see why so many people are drawn to this enchanting country.
In Portugal you'll be blessed with more than 300 days of sunshine per year and able to venture outside for most of the year. Great if you are moving with kids as you can head to the beach pretty much anytime and try your hand at surfing, paddle, boarding, golf, or any other outdoor sport that you so desire.
Whether it's the warm, sunny beaches of the Algarve or the mild, Mediterranean climate of Lisbon, Portugal is a place where visitors can expect to see plenty of sunshine.
Another highlight of the Portuguese weather is its lack of extreme temperatures. Unlike many other countries that experience hot, humid summers or cold, harsh winters, Portugal's climate is mild and temperate, making it an ideal place to live or visit year-round.
In addition to its warm and sunny climate, Portugal is also home to a number of microclimates that provide a range of different weather conditions. Whether it's the cool, misty mountains of the interior or the arid plains of the Alentejo, each region of the country has its own unique weather patterns that are well worth exploring.
In conclusion, the good weather in Portugal is one of the country's defining characteristics, and it's something that visitors are sure to appreciate and remember long after they've gone home.
Portuguese cuisine is known for its rich and diverse flavors, reflecting the country's history and culture. Seafood plays a significant role in many traditional dishes, such as bacalhau (salted cod) and caldeirada (fish stew), while meat dishes like cozido (meat and vegetable stew) and frango piri-piri (spicy grilled chicken) are also popular.
In addition to its savory dishes, Portugal is famous for its pastries and desserts. The pastel de nata, a creamy custard tart, is a must-try for any food lover visiting the country. Other sweet treats include bolo de arroz (rice cake) and arroz doce (rice pudding).
Portugal's cuisine is also heavily influenced by its former colonies and trading partners, such as Brazil, Angola, and India. This has led to the incorporation of new spices and ingredients into traditional Portuguese dishes, resulting in a fusion of flavors that is unique to the country.
Overall, the rich and diverse Portuguese cuisine is a reflection of the country's history and its openness to outside influences, making it a must-try for any food enthusiast.
The distance between Portugal and the United Kingdom is relatively short, with the two countries being separated by approximately 1,000 miles. This proximity has led to a long-standing relationship between the two countries, both in terms of trade and cultural exchange.
Travel between Portugal and the UK is relatively easy, with regular flights operating between major cities such as Lisbon, Porto, and Faro in Portugal, and London, Manchester, and Edinburgh in the UK.
Francisco Sá Carneiro Airport, also known as Porto Airport, is widely regarded as one of the best airports in Europe due to its modern facilities, efficient operations, and excellent customer service. The airport has won numerous awards for its services, including being named the Best Airport in Europe in the 5 to 15 million passenger category by Airports Council International in 2017. In addition, the airport has a reputation for punctuality and reliability, with short waiting times and smooth check-in and security procedures. Overall, Francisco Sá Carneiro Airport is a top-class airport that offers a great travel experience for both leisure and business travelers.
Also, there are ferry services that connect the two countries, providing a more leisurely way to travel.
This close proximity has also led to a significant number of British expatriates living in Portugal, particularly in the Algarve region. The relatively short distance between the two countries makes it easy for British citizens to relocate to Portugal, and the warm climate and relaxed lifestyle have made it an attractive destination for retirees.
The Portuguese lifestyle is widely regarded as family-friendly, with a focus on enjoying quality time together and a relaxed approach to daily life. Family is an important part of Portuguese culture, and many traditions and celebrations revolve around spending time with loved ones.
One of the hallmarks of the Portuguese lifestyle is the importance placed on meals and sharing food. Families typically gather for long, leisurely meals, often consisting of several courses and accompanied by good wine and conversation. This focus on communal eating and togetherness creates a warm and welcoming atmosphere, and children are encouraged to participate in meal preparation and clean-up.
Portugal's warm climate and proximity to the sea also make it an ideal destination for family-friendly activities such as beach days, swimming, and water sports. The country's many parks and green spaces provide ample opportunities for outdoor play and relaxation.
In addition, Portugal's public transportation system is efficient and affordable, making it easy for families to explore different parts of the country without the need for a car. And with its rich history and cultural heritage, there are many educational and enriching activities for families to enjoy, such as visiting museums, historic sites, and art galleries.
Overall, the Portuguese lifestyle offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere for families, with a focus on spending quality time together and enjoying the simple pleasures in life.
Living in Portugal provides easy access to the rest of Europe, making it an ideal location for those who want to explore the continent. With its strategic location on the southwestern edge of Europe, Portugal offers direct flights to many major cities in Europe, including London, Paris, Berlin, and Madrid, among others.
In addition, Portugal is part of the Schengen Area, which means that citizens and residents of the country can travel freely within the 26 European countries that make up the Schengen Area without the need for additional visas or border checks. This makes it easy to plan trips to neighboring countries and to explore different parts of Europe.
Furthermore, Portugal's excellent transportation infrastructure, including high-speed trains, buses, and a well-developed road network, makes it easy to travel within the country and to neighboring countries. Many of Portugal's major cities are also located within a few hours' drive of major European cities, such as Madrid and Paris, making it easy to take weekend trips and explore different parts of the continent.
