Making the decision to uproot your life and move to an entirely new country and culture is, of itself, a major decision and upheaval. Give yourself a HUGE pat on the back for having the vision and courage to make that decision.
Moving from the US to Portugal is a “Master’s Class” in learning adjustment, acceptance and letting go of the BS you’ve been brain-washed to believe is the only way to live. Prepare yourself and understand that your first year, at the least, will be filled with doubts, frustrations, and “brick walls” of bureaucracy. The “I never had to do this before…..” mantra will get you absolutely no where against the Portuguese, gently-smiling face telling you “é assim que é” (that’s how it is….)
I have had an extremely stressful, negative few weeks as I search for a permanent rental in a market that resembles the US real estate market right before the bubble burst in 2008.
Even a year into living here, it had me wondering – bordering on doubting. Then I sat on my terrace this evening, sipping a lovely Alentejo red blend, listening to the birds, feeling the breeze from the Ocean – and all of those doubts slipped away, as I realized I was exactly where I was meant to be.
Trust yourself and your decisions – even when it seems like you were crazy…
Susan Smith
Just had her 1 year anniversary in Portugal. Her daughter, Jennifer, is now getting close to her 2 year renewal. They currently live in the Eastern Algarve (Vila Real de Santo Antonio).
Air Tag
Packing Cubes
Luggage Scale
I am widowed and of an age when going through all the hoops and loops of moving permanently to another country is daunting. Ahh, to be 80 again! So I would like to rent for three months or so out of the year in the Algarve, near but not in Lisbon. Walking, exploring, eating out, and community are high on my list. I was in Portugal recently for only 8 days, so my knowledge is limited, but I loved it.
Do you have suggestions about areas and who and how to contact regarding short-term rentals? Any information you can give me is much appreciated.
Thank you,
Jan Noyes
Hi Jan,
For short term rentals (under 12-months), Airbnb is a good place to start. Look for apartments with “Super Hosts” in the area you’d like to move to. Also, reach out to local realtors specific to the area you’d like to move to or reach out to relocation services that can help you find a rental. The Algarve is in the southern part of Portugal while Lisbon is in the center so it’s difficult to be in the Algarve and near Lisbon as they are regions about 2 1/2 hrs from each other. If you’re trying to be in between those areas, look into the Alentejo as well. Good luck! 🙂
-Everyday Portugal