About Portugal
As a general rule, but particularly in rural areas, the cost of living in Portugal is inexpensive with prices averaging half, or less, of their UK equivalents. Food and drink is particularly reasonable and a weekly supermarket shop for four will typically cost a third of its UK price. It is also less expensive to run a car with car tax at 80% cheaper than the UK and both petrol and diesel at much reduced prices. Property Rates and the costs of services are very reasonable, for example electricity is about half that in the UK. Labour is relatively cheap in Portugal therefore builders, decorators, cleaners and gardeners command low daily rates and are in plentiful supply.
The Country and Climate
Portugal is one of the smallest European countries but is arguably the most geographically diverse. Bordered on the west and south by the Atlantic Ocean, it has an impressive coastline of approximately 840 kms. Dramatic mountains and lush, green valleys in the north gradually recede into the gently undulating arid plains of the south. Mountain ranges are a feature throughout the length of the country – breaking up the southern plains and sheltering coastal regions. Generally temperatures in Portugal average 10-12ºC higher than those in Southern England. The climate in the north is milder and damper than the rest of the country, with warmer, drier weather in the south. The Atlantic influences the weather and tempers the summer heat on the coast to an average of 27-28ºC. Continental winds vary temperatures inland, which can reach 35+ºC in the summer. In the winter, the average national temperature is a mild 11ºC.
Accessibility
Three international airports serve the country - at Lisbon, Faro and Porto, with flight times from London approximately 2.5 hours – and there are plans for a new international airport northeast of Lisbon. Thanks to the expansion of low-cost airline services, cheap fares are now available into Portugal. Since joining the EU, Portugal has made huge investments in its infrastructure – improving the existing road network and opening new motorways - making it one of the most advanced road systems in Europe. Portugal also boasts one of the most efficient intercity railway services in Europe linking Lisbon, Coimbra and Porto and plans are in place to extend this high-speed service into other areas of the country.
Recreation
The Portuguese, Lifestyle and Language
The Portuguese more than justify their reputation as some of the most friendly and helpful people in Europe. Their ethos is one of “working to live” and they do live life to the full. Children and the elderly are treated with respect and, like many Southern European cultures, family is important. The way of life is much more relaxed, especially away from the large cities, and nothing is rushed. For the non-linguist, Portuguese is a challenging language to master although, as it is Latin-based, it is generally easy to read. The good-natured Portuguese will do everything they can to help you communicate. Historically French was the second language and many people over the age of 40 will use this. The younger generations all have English as their second language and an impressive number of them are fluent.
