An Expat Talks about Living in Lisbon, Portugal

What is the name of the city or town that you are reporting on?

Lisbon

How long have you lived there?

two weeks

What activities, clubs and organizations would you recommend to newcomers to help them meet others?

Americans in Portugal, Democrats Abroad

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Relocating abroad soon? Make your move with AGS! AGS Worldwide Movers is a leader in the international moving industry. Our experience and expertise allows us to guarantee our clients the best quality moving services.
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In terms of religious, racial, economic and cultural diversity, are the people of this city or town diverse? Are they accepting of differences? Describe.

Lisbon is very diverse. While the vast majority of the population are Iberian (Portuguese & Spanish), there are immigrants from all over the globe (former Portuguese colonies in Africa, Brasil) Ukrainians make up the largest immigrant group (after Brasilians). While certain groups tend to stick to themselves, people appear accepting of everyone here.

What are the main industries in this city? What types of career opportunities commonly exist? How do most people find new jobs?

Job employment agencies are the best way to go for looking for work. However, most require fluency in Portuguese. If you come from the United States, the UK, or any other English-speaking country, your best bet is to look for companies from your home country that are specifically looking for English-speakers.

In general, what are peoples' priorities in this city? For example, do lives revolve around work, family, socializing, sports, etc.?

There's a little bit of everything in Lisboa (Lisbon). Public transportation is a must in this city. There are a number of outdoor cafes where you can enjoy a coffee and people-watch. However, sports is the priority in Lisbon. Futebol (Soccer) is king here. Sporting and Benfica are the top soccer teams in the city. Be careful about wearing green (Sporting colors) in the Benfica neighborhood.

If a friend of yours was thinking of moving to this city or town from far away, what other advice would you give them.

Grab a Portugese phrase book, and spend time focusing on learning crucial phrases that will help you in conversing with the locals.