×
Interested in our Partner Program for businesses or our Local Guide Program for experienced expats and digital nomads? Click here to learn more.
Expat Exchange
Free MembershipSign In

Moving to Portugal

4 years ago
We are a family of four moving from South Florida to Portugal as soon as the Covid crisis loosens up. After having researched many of the different items necessary, I still want to hear what those expats “boots on the ground” can provide from this forum as I have gathered some great insight so far.

Here goes:

Region:
Originally, we thought Lisbon, but we do not want to be apartment dwellers. We are seeking more open space, fresh food, sports for our sons, fishing, surfing, etc. We want to travel locally and throughout Europe as well. We’re leaning Silver Coast but it appears there’s less options for rentals there (please add any other search sites besides Idealista. It’s great, but I want to capture as much info as possible).

I have also looked North of Porto, all the way to the AlGarve. I’d like to hear input overall (once you read the next line item first).

Culture:
We are coming in from one of the most inclusive and diverse areas of the US. I am Caucasian and my wife is African-American, thus our sons are bi-racial. Are there any issues in the regions as to how minorities are treated? Curious stares are ok, but outward discrimination is not something we’ll will tolerate. Stay more expat-centric areas or it does not matter?

Vehicle:
Since we are seeking not to live dependent upon only public transportation, a vehicle is likely needed for local excursions. Does anyone have experience using Leaseplan.com as it seems to be a good deal at least for the first year or so verses buying right away?

Schools:
My sons will initially remain online in schooling, but we would love, post-COVID, to transition them back to the classrooms without spending a fortune. Best regions for expat children at the middle school level?

That’s a loaded list, I know, but I’d appreciate any and all input this group collectively can provide.

Thank you all in advance and stay safe!

Portugal Residency Advisors
Portugal Residency Advisors

Cigna Global Health
Cigna Global Health

Get a quote in 2 minutes from our partner, Cigna Global Health.
Get Quote

Cigna Global HealthCigna Global Health

Get a quote in 2 minutes from our partner, Cigna Global Health.
Get Quote

Living in Portugal GuideLiving in Portugal Guide

Our Living in Portugal Guide is a primer on everything about living in Portugal: best places to live, cost of living, pros and cons, healthcare and insurance, obtaining a driver's license, how to bring your pet with you and more.

Portugal Forum Portugal Forum
Join our Portugal forum to meet other expats and talk about living in Portugal.

Contribute to Portugal Network Contribute
Help other expats and newcomers by answering questions about the challenges and adventures of living in Portugal.

Best Places to Live in Portugal Best Places to Live in Portugal

If you're thinking about living in Portugal, here are the 15 Best Places to Live in Portugal in 2023.

Healthcare in PortugalHealthcare in Portugal

Expats in Portugal with a residency visa can participate in the national health care system. Here's what you need to know about the SNS and the combination of public and private services you'll need to manage your health in Portugal.

Cost of Living in PortugalCost of Living in Portugal

Expats offer insight into the cost of living in Portugal.

Moving to PortugalMoving to Portugal Guide

Expats moving to Portugal are drawn by a variety of places to live, a rich history and so much more. Here are some tips on what it means to move there, and how to make it happen.

Real Estate in PortugalReal Estate in Portugal

Real estate listings in popular cities and towns in Portugal.

Pros Cons of Living in PortugalPros & Cons of Living in Portugal

Take off your rose-colored glasses and learn what expats have to say about the biggest challenges and the greatest rewards of living in Portugal.

Retiring in PortugalRetiring in Portugal

Advice for people retiring in Portugal.

Visa and Residency PortugalPortugal Visa & Residency Guide

Thanks to Susan Stults Korthase for this helpful overview of current requirements to begin the process of obtaining a Residency Visa when moving from the US to Portugal.

10 Tips for Living in Portugal10 Tips for Living in Portugal

If you've recently arrived in Portugal, here are 10 tips for digital nomads living in Portugal.

Cigna Global Health
Cigna Global Health

Get a quote in 2 minutes from our partner, Cigna Global Health.
Get Quote

Cigna Global HealthCigna Global Health

Get a quote in 2 minutes from our partner, Cigna Global Health.
Get Quote

Contribute to Portugal Network Contribute
Help others in Portugal by answering questions about the challenges and adventures of living in Portugal.

Portugal Residency Advisors
Portugal Residency Advisors

Copyright 1997-2024 Burlingame Interactive, Inc.

Privacy Policy Legal Partners & Local Guides