Making the Move to Portugal? Keep This in Mind: Portugal is Not Spain

Portugal is not Spain. Although this should be clear to everyone; people’s initial visits to Portugal can begin with a slight ignorance on this topic, which something can sometimes lead to misunderstandings with the Portuguese.  

Many Germans who emigrate to Portugal, or have already moved here, make the mistake of thinking that Portugal and Spain are comparable because they are both situated on the Iberian Peninsula. There is a long history between the two countries, but the geographical situation of the Iberian Peninsula has meant that both Spain and Portugal have developed very differently. One example of this is that England and Portugal have the oldest trading alliance in the world. 

Nowadays, the countries of Spain and Portugal have a lot in common and maintain a good relationship, but they are both very different. Apart from language, there are many other striking differences between Portugal and Spain, such as culture, people, gastronomy, and landscape. You may well find yourself surprised by everything Portugal has to offer. 

Emigrating to Portugal was a wonderful experience for me. As someone of Portuguese heritage born in Germany, it was here that I returned to my origins and got to know a new culture of my own.  

Although there are many expats living in Portugal who speak German or English, anyone who wants to come here should learn some Portuguese before emigrating. You only need to have basic knowledge, because most Portuguese speak English and many also speak German, and often know someone they can ask to help you.  

Even making the effort to learn a little Portuguese will help you integrate yourself into society here much easier, and you’ll find yourself settling more quickly in this beautiful country.   

The cost of living in Portugal is significantly lower than many of its European counterparts. The difference in the cost of living here compared to Germany, France and Great Britain has attracted more and more pensioners from these countries. Poland has also recently been added to this list, along with Belgium. Portugal is still widely known as the country where you can still have lunch for 10 euros, and you can get local, affordable groceries and more for your money in terms of real estate.  

However, a distinction should be made between Portugal as a country and the more expensive areas to live like Lisbon, Cascais or Loulé in the Algarve. These are the most expensive municipalities in Portugal in terms of the price property and cost of living. In cities like Leiria, Beja or others in the interior however, that are further away from the coast you’ll a have completely different experience; these places tend to be cheaper in terms of property and the cost of living. 

Portugal offers a unique experience for gastronomy lovers! In Portugal you live and spend most of your time outdoors, and that's why Portugal offers something for everyone and everyone, whether retired, freelancer or family, Portugal has something for everyone.  

In the south of Portugal is the Algarve, probably the most famous region among Germans and retirees, because it has some of the best golf courses in Portugal and Europe as a whole, as well as wonderful beaches and incredible scenery.  

From a practical point of view, I most also point out that there are many good private clinics offering their services in various languages, including German. There are also several German and international schools for all those who want to build their future here as a family. 

Author: Paulo Lopes