What do expats find most challenging?

We asked expats and digital nomads what they find the most challenging about the local culture in Sintra. They wrote...

"Expats in Sintra often find the language barrier to be the most challenging aspect of the local culture. Portuguese is the official language and while English is spoken in many tourist areas, it is less common in more residential or rural areas. Another challenge is the slower pace of life, which can be frustrating for those accustomed to a faster, more immediate service. This is particularly noticeable in restaurants and shops, where service can be leisurely. Understanding and adapting to Portuguese bureaucracy can also be a challenge for expats. Dealing with paperwork for visas, residency permits, or setting up utilities can be a complex and time-consuming process. The cultural emphasis on personal relationships and networks, known as "cunha", can also be difficult for expats to navigate. It's common for business and personal matters to be conducted based on personal connections, which can be confusing and frustrating for those not used to this way of operating. Lastly, while Portuguese people are generally friendly and welcoming, it can take time to form deep, meaningful friendships. This can lead to feelings of isolation or loneliness for some expats," explained one expat living in Sintra, Portugal.

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