Episodes
Moving to Portugal offers a picturesque setting with its stunning beaches and relaxed lifestyle, a dream for many expats and digital nomads contemplating living abroad in Portugal. For those embarking on this adventure, navigating the business landscape becomes crucial, especially for expatriates looking to blend their expat life with entrepreneurial ventures. Whether you’re freelancing with green receipts (recibo verde) or managing a formal entity like an LDA or Unipessoal LDA, understanding...
Published 05/03/24
Published 05/03/24
Considering a move abroad in 2024, such as becoming an expat in Italy or Portugal, is increasingly appealing for many facing high living costs in the U.S. or UK. The draw of expat life goes beyond economic benefits, offering the chance to immerse oneself in new cultures and languages. However, it's crucial to balance the excitement of these opportunities with the practical realities of day-to-day expat life in a new country. Understanding these implications and aligning them with your...
Published 04/26/24
Considering moving abroad? Portugal offers an ideal blend of lifestyle, safety, and ease of settling in for expats. Known for its relaxed pace of life and community-centric culture, Portugal is an attractive option for those seeking a balanced expat experience. The country’s bureaucracy is notably more navigable compared to many others, easing the transition for newcomers. With excellent connections to the rest of Europe, Portugal is perfect for expats looking to explore further afield while...
Published 04/19/24
Thinking about moving to Braga, Portugal? This city is becoming a popular choice for expats, known for its more affordable cost of living compared to larger cities like Lisbon or Porto. However, keep in mind that housing and dining costs are on the rise. Braga’s welcoming community and vibrant cultural scene make it an appealing option for those considering expat life in a truly Portuguese city. If you’re thinking about living abroad in Braga, planning a visit could be essential to fully...
Published 04/12/24
Exploring expat life in Portugal unfolds as a journey filled with contrasts—from its breathtaking sceneries to the rhythm of daily life, presenting both allure and adaptation challenges. The essence of settling in involves more than just scenic views; it's about meshing with the local tempo, which often involves a dance with bureaucracy and finding one's footing in the job market. True immersion goes beyond the surface, requiring a blend of cultural curiosity and resilience. The emotional...
Published 04/05/24
The notion of moving abroad after the election has become a hot topic among those looking to embrace an expat life, seeking not only a refuge from political unrest but a deeper connection with a lifestyle that echoes their personal values. With the increasing feasibility of living abroad, thanks to remote work and technological strides, many are meticulously planning their transition to expat life, exploring the intricacies of life abroad. Whether the aim is to move to Europe, with popular...
Published 03/29/24
Moving to Portugal in 2024 comes at a time when financial incentives such as the NHR regime and golden visas are almost completely phased out, shifting the focus for expats towards the intrinsic values of residing in this country. The true allure of expat life in Portugal lies in its deep-rooted traditions, welcoming expat communities, and the diverse landscapes that enrich the experience of living in Portugal. For those contemplating such a move, grasping the cultural and regional variations...
Published 03/22/24
Embarking on an expat journey and moving to Italy unfolds a series of enriching experiences that blend Italy's captivating traditions with the essentials of establishing a new life. This adventure, marked by significant moments, guides expats through the heart of Italy's vibrant culture and welcoming communities. Essential phases pave the way for a deep immersion into the expat lifestyle, subtly hinting at the necessary steps for seamless integration into Italian society. Living in Italy as...
Published 03/15/24
Living abroad offers a rich blend of adventures and lessons, especially for expats navigating new cultures and languages. Embracing local languages beyond relying on English is crucial for deeper cultural immersion and connection. The expatriate journey involves balancing the exploration of new places with the significance of integrating into local communities, shining a light on the value of setting down roots while maintaining the freedom to explore. Building a diverse social circle and...
Published 03/08/24
Moving to Italy unveils a journey far beyond the allure of its famed pizza, pasta, and amore, introducing newcomers to a society where the stability of one's job overshadows credit scores in the housing market, and long-term commitments in both personal and professional spheres are deeply valued. The choice between the authentic charm of smaller towns and the dynamic opportunities of larger cities presents a significant decision, further complicated by the unexpected, often chilly weather in...
Published 03/01/24
Embarking on an expat journey by moving abroad to destinations like Italy and Portugal offers a canvas of rich cultural experiences, historical depth, and picturesque landscapes. Italy captivates with its profound historical roots, diverse regional cultures, and world-renowned culinary delights, promising a deeply immersive lifestyle. However, newcomers might find its administrative system to be quite intricate, necessitating patience and a bit of perseverance to navigate. Portugal, with its...
Published 02/23/24
Navigating the nuances of expat life while living abroad, particularly when choosing between Italy and Portugal, reveals a rich tapestry of lifestyle, cost, and cultural offerings. Portugal often stands out as a budget-friendly haven for expats, offering an affordable cost of living and dining experiences, making moving to Portugal an attractive option for those seeking quality life without the hefty price tag. In contrast, Italy enchants expats with its unparalleled culinary heritage and...
Published 02/16/24
Embracing expat life by living abroad, especially when moving to Europe, offers an enriching tapestry of experiences that can transform one's perspective on life in Europe. From the scenic landscapes of Portugal to the rich cultural heritage of Italy, living in Portugal or moving to Italy presents unique challenges and opportunities that define the essence of life abroad. Whether you're navigating the complexities of the healthcare system, exploring the diverse linguistic landscape, or...
Published 02/09/24
Moving to Europe opens up an exciting chapter for Americans and other expats, where history and modern conveniences meet in a unique blend of experiences. For those making the leap to ‘life in Europe’, navigating its comprehensive bureaucracy is a necessary step, albeit a challenging one, that prepares newcomers for what lies ahead. As an American in Europe, you'll find yourself immersed in a lively cultural milieu, where public spaces like cafes and squares naturally become part of your...
Published 02/02/24
Setting out on an adventure to live abroad, whether you're eyeing Portugal, Europe, or any corner of the globe, is more than a change of address – it's a whole new chapter in life. For those ready to dive into expat life, it's about laying the groundwork and adjusting your sails to the winds of change. This journey is about smart planning and embracing the unknown, a mix of anticipation and practicality. From tackling the initial steps of moving, to adapting to new cultures and laws, it's a...
Published 01/19/24
Nestled in the northern region of Portugal, Braga is a city where the culinary scene offers a delightful experience for expats in Portugal and travelers alike. The city, known for its unique blend of traditional Portuguese flavors also offers a wide array of international cuisines. Here, one can explore the robust taste of the Francesinha, a local specialty, or enjoy the classic Portuguese Caldo Verde. The famed pastel de nata, a staple in Portuguese bakeries, is a must-try for anyone...
Published 01/12/24
Living abroad in your 20s is an enriching journey filled with a unique set of challenges and opportunities. Key decisions about education and career paths significantly impact this experience, as the relevance of one's qualifications can vary greatly across different countries. Adapting to a new culture, learning the local language, and navigating the nuances of a foreign job market are essential steps in this journey. This period of life offers unparalleled opportunities for personal and...
Published 01/05/24
Living life abroad, particularly as an expat in Portugal, offers a blend of adventure and personal growth that is unparalleled. For Americans and others moving abroad alone or with families, the experience of living in another country, especially in Europe, can be both exhilarating and challenging. Expats living abroad, such as those in Portugal, often find themselves immersed in a lifestyle that balances the simplicity of café culture with the complexities of adapting to new social norms....
Published 12/29/23
Embarking on the journey of living abroad, particularly in European countries like Portugal, encapsulates a spectrum of experiences and challenges unique to expat life. Key considerations include navigating the rising cost of living, especially in urban areas, and understanding the healthcare system, which can be marked by long waiting times and occasional staff shortages. Transportation in densely populated cities adds another layer of complexity for those contemplating car ownership amidst...
Published 12/22/23
Living abroad as an expat unfolds as a journey filled with both challenges and enriching experiences. It begins with the excitement of immersing oneself in a new culture, tasting different cuisines, and participating in diverse traditions. As the initial novelty fades, the expat faces the challenge of keeping their experience vibrant and engaging. This balance involves integrating into the local culture while maintaining a connection to one's roots. Adapting to language differences,...
Published 12/15/23
Deciding to live abroad, particularly when considering moving back to the USA, encapsulates a complex blend of practical and emotional factors. For expats, the allure of native language comfort, familiar cultural norms, and potential career opportunities often weigh against the challenges of adjusting to a different lifestyle and higher living costs. This pivotal decision in an expat's life requires balancing the ease of established systems, like credit history, with the emotional toll of...
Published 12/08/23
The Portuguese government's decision to end the Non-Habitual Resident (NHR) tax scheme brings significant implications for expats living in Portugal and those considering moving to Portugal. The NHR scheme, a major draw for expatriates seeking financial advantages, played a crucial role in attracting foreign investment and skills, thereby boosting the local economy. However, its termination may lead to a reassessment among expats, who might explore relocating to other tax-friendly European...
Published 12/01/23
Deciding on an expat destination between Portugal and Italy involves considering several distinct factors. Each country has its own legal and bureaucratic processes, which can affect the ease of settling in. Portugal, with its unique cultural landscape, offers a distinctive lifestyle influenced by various historical and contemporary factors, whereas Italy is known for its deeply rooted traditions and rich culinary heritage. The ease of communication for English speakers also varies...
Published 11/24/23
Exploring new horizons by moving to a different country often stems from the pursuit of happiness and self-discovery. However, this journey is more about internal growth than geographical change. True contentment arises from within, and while a new environment offers fresh perspectives, it's not the sole happiness determinant. Such a move invites introspection, revealing personal facets in the absence of familiar routines. Challenges like cultural adaptation and rebuilding social networks...
Published 11/17/23