A Retirement Dream: Swapping Snow for Sunshine
John and Susan enjoy their dream retirement in sunny Portugal - affordable living, friendly communities, and year-round sunshine.
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John and Susan, from a chilly northern U.S. state, long dreamed of a retirement filled with sunshine, culture, and a relaxed pace of life. After extensive research, one destination consistently emerged: Portugal. “We’d heard so much about it,” Susan recalls. “Beautiful, affordable, and friendly - it seemed almost too good to be true.”
Affordable Cost of Living
One of the biggest draws was Portugal’s lower cost of living compared to the U.S. and Canada. “Our savings go much further here. From housing and groceries to dining out and healthcare, Portugal offers excellent value. Websites like PortugalProperty.com showed us a wide range of homes to suit various budgets.”
Quality Healthcare
Access to good healthcare was another top priority. Portugal’s public health system (SNS) is well-regarded, and private care is both of high quality and affordable. “We were relieved to see how accessible and reliable the healthcare is,” says Susan.
Safety and Stability
Portugal ranks among the world’s safest countries, ranking 7th in the Global Peace Index. With a low crime rate and a stable political environment, retirees like John and Susan feel secure. “Feeling safe was non-negotiable for us,” John notes.
Welcoming Culture and Expat Community
The Portuguese are known for their hospitality. English is widely spoken in expat-friendly areas like the Algarve, Lisbon, and Cascais. “We quickly found a supportive expat community and felt welcomed,” says Susan.
Climate and Lifestyle
Portugal’s mild winters and long sunny summers allow for an active, outdoor lifestyle year-round. Whether it’s golfing, beach days, or enjoying local cuisine, John and Susan love their new way of life. “Escaping harsh winters was a dream come true,” John smiles.
Easy Residency Options
Portugal offers accessible residency through the popular D7 Visa for retirees or anyone with passive income. “The process was manageable, especially with the right guidance,” John explains.
Finding Their Home
After exploring the country, they chose the Algarve and partnered with us here at PortugalProperty.com. “They understood our needs and made the process seamless,” says Susan. Today, they live in a cosy villa near the sea, enjoying their dream retirement.
Could you see yourself retiring under the Portuguese sun? Contact our knowledgeable and professional team of multi-lingual Property Advisors. Email hello@PortugalProperty.com or call us on +351 308 800 878 or 0800 014 8201 free from the UK.
You may find your dream retirement is closer than you think.
Published in: Guide to Portugal / Miscellaneous / Portugal Property / Portuguese Life