Portugal’s 5 Star Lifestyle

Quickly becoming the preferred choice of retirement you could be forgiven into thinking it’s all about long games of golf, lazy strolls on the beach and larges glasses of Port. As a starter that’s not bad but there’s much more to Portugal than most people first realise.

With beautiful long sunny days, a pleasant year-round climate and the most wonderful people you could meet, it’s easy to see why Portugal is a place in demand. To help you, however, here’s a recap as to why you are on this site

With flight times of less than three hours, a great choice of airports and low cost airlines the whole of Portugal is close, easy to reach and affordable.

• The Portuguese are warm, friendly and welcoming whether you are on holiday or a new neighbour. With characteristics and personalities much like ourselves it’s not difficult to see why the Portuguese are some of our oldest allies
• One of the lowest crime rates in Europe and the capital was recently voted the safest in Europe.
• Over 50 Golf Courses are available or under construction! Add to this every type of water sport, horse riding, football and even skiing in the north and there won’t be time to lie on the beach.
• The joy of speaking Portuguese (and being understood) is something for everyone to try but when it comes to legal issues or health or just a beer, it’s nice to be able to communicate in your mother tongue.
• You’ll be pleased to know the price of food and drink remains incredibly low and a 3-course meal can be less than 10 Euros/9 pounds. Running costs (gas, water and electricity) together with public transport costs are almost a pleasure to pay!
• Prevention is better than cure and with the warm climate and clean air it’s no surprise the doctor’s prescription often leads to a holiday here. If that’s not enough the healthcare here is top class with many affordable private schemes available.
• Based on the prices in the UK and Ireland, it’s nice to know prices of property here are still very affordable and allow the options of downsizing to release equity.
• The combination of hot summers cooled by the Atlantic breezes and warm winter days make the climate unbeatable. Rain keeps the country green but with short heavy bursts it’s rare for it to be grey for too long. And it’s never dull!
• With three main airports and new motorways spanning north to south and east to west it’s easy to navigate and the roads are incredibly uncongested – even in summer. Public transport by road or rail is frequent, safe and very affordable for those not wanting to drive.
• It’s a beautiful country and the Government are keeping it that way with strict planning regulations. That keeps the long beaches, countryside and wonderful pine forests free for us to value and enjoy.
• With the Atlantic on its doorstep and some of the best growing conditions in the world its clear some of the best fish and meat dishes can be enjoyed here at remarkable prices. With the increasingly popular red, white and ‘vinho verde’ wines you won’t be rushing dinner times!