Don’t Move To Portugal (Residents Tell Us The Truth)

October 3, 2023

Here are some reasons why some residents of Portugal might say “don’t move to Portugal”:

The cost of living is rising. Portugal has become a popular destination for expats in recent years, and this has led to an increase in the cost of living, especially in popular tourist areas.
The bureaucracy can be difficult to navigate. Portugal has a reputation for having a complex and inefficient bureaucracy. This can be frustrating for expats who are trying to get things done, such as obtaining a visa or opening a bank account.
The language barrier can be challenging. Portuguese is a relatively difficult language to learn, and this can make it difficult for expats to integrate into Portuguese society.
The weather can be unpredictable. Portugal has a Mediterranean climate, which means that it can be hot and sunny in the summer, and cold and wet in the winter. This can be a shock for expats who are used to more consistent weather conditions.
The healthcare system can be slow and inefficient. The Portuguese healthcare system is publicly funded, but it can be slow and inefficient. This can be frustrating for expats who need to access healthcare services.

Here are some specific complaints from residents of Portugal:

“The bureaucracy is a nightmare. It takes forever to get anything done, and the government employees are often unhelpful.”
“The cost of living is rising too quickly. It’s becoming difficult to afford to live in Portugal on a modest income.”
“The weather can be very unpredictable. It can be hot and sunny one day, and cold and wet the next.”
“The healthcare system is slow and inefficient. It can take weeks or even months to see a specialist.”
“It can be difficult to integrate into Portuguese society if you don’t speak Portuguese.”

Do’s:

Learn Portuguese. Even if you don’t become fluent, learning some basic Portuguese will go a long way in helping you integrate into Portuguese society.
Be patient with the bureaucracy. It can be frustrating, but it’s important to be patient and persistent when dealing with the Portuguese bureaucracy.
Be prepared for unpredictable weather. Pack for all types of weather, as the weather in Portugal can change quickly.
Take advantage of the healthcare system. The Portuguese healthcare system is publicly funded and offers good quality care.
Enjoy the relaxed lifestyle. Portugal is a great place to slow down and enjoy life.

Don’ts:

Expect everything to be easy. Moving to a new country is always challenging, and Portugal is no exception.
Be afraid to ask for help. Portuguese people are generally very friendly and helpful.
Compare Portugal to your home country. Portugal is a unique country with its own culture and way of life.
Be negative. Portugal has a lot to offer, so try to focus on the positive aspects of living there.

Here are some additional tips from residents of Portugal:

Find a good expat community. There are many expat communities in Portugal, and they can be a great source of support and information.
Get involved in local activities. This is a great way to meet new people and learn more about Portuguese culture.
Don’t be afraid to try new things. Portugal has a lot to offer, so be open to trying new foods, activities, and experiences.

Despite these challenges, many people still love living in Portugal. The country has a lot to offer, including a beautiful climate, delicious food, and a relaxed lifestyle. However, it is important to be aware of the potential challenges before moving to Portugal.