Portugal offers picturesque landscapes, excellent resorts, a mild climate and the hospitality of the local people.
Despite its relatively small size, this is a very interesting and beautiful country, which is one of the oldest states in Europe. Portugal’s centuries-old history, rich cultural heritage, pristine nature and developed tourism infrastructure attract a huge number of tourists every year.
What is life like in Portugal now: place in the rankings
In 2021, Portugal became third in the top countries with the best quality of life among the local population. The average life expectancy here is 81 years.
Portugal is in 10th place in the ranking of countries with the best air quality. It is also considered one of the safest countries in the entire world, ranking fourth on the list – behind Iceland (first), New Zealand (second) and Denmark (third).
Portuguese cuisine:
The national cuisine of Portugal has been created for many centuries by simple peasants and fishermen of local villages. For this reason, any dish here is distinguished by its satiety and ease of preparation. It is very important that in this country they not only respect their cuisine, but really love food, talk about it and try to bring something new to traditions.
Each region on the coast has its own secrets of local cuisine. Everyone approaches the creation of culinary masterpieces very carefully. The basis of Portuguese cuisine is made from fish, seafood and vegetables. Many restaurateurs keep up to 300 recipes for cooking sea creatures. Particularly impressive are the local fish soup, cataplana, as well as charcoal-grilled sardines, crab croquettes and clams. However, they also treat meat and sausage products with great love, trying to cook over coals and serving dishes with wine.
Among drinks, port wine comes first, of course. The main production of this alcohol is concentrated in the north of Portugal. The most popular varieties are made in Madeira, and if we talk about different varieties of green and white wine, then they need to be sent to Setubal, Alentejo and Dan. They also make liqueurs with an almond base and vodka from the strawberry tree. Among non-alcoholic drinks, coffee is the leader.
Climate and geography of Portugal:
Portugal is located in southwestern Europe, bordering the North Atlantic Ocean and west of Spain.
Northern Portugal is mountainous and hilly and characterized by many small farms and vineyards. Regions in the north tend to be slightly cooler than those in the south, as well as more rainfall, allowing for the development of the more fertile agricultural areas that predominate in the north.
Portugal’s coastline is widespread with stunning landscapes and many fabulous beaches; The Algarve is known throughout the world for its fantastic beaches and beautiful coastline.
The coastline in central and northern Portugal is also spectacular; many kilometers of beautiful white sandy beaches set against a backdrop of stunning cliffs and stunning unspoiled nature.
Portugal – is one of the warmest European countries, where a subtropical Mediterranean climate prevails without sharp temperature fluctuations.
In the north-west of the country there are mild winters and rather short summers, in the north-east the winters are longer, sometimes snow falls and the temperature can drop below 6ºC, but the summers are quite hot, the south boasts mild winters and long hot summers.
Why Portugal is good for living:
• Low prices for products. The average price tag for a grocery basket here is 30-40% lower than in most European countries.
• Affordable medicine. Public insurance covers most of the costs of medical care, including outpatient treatment, dentistry, diagnostic tests, pregnancy support, etc. The average Portuguese pays only about 40-45% of the actual cost of services for medical care.
• Friendliness of the local population.
• Mild climate all year round. Perhaps this is one of the most valuable advantages of Portugal, for which people decide to move to the south of Europe. Almost throughout the entire country, positive temperatures are observed all year round, and only in mountainous areas does snow fall.
• Developed social sphere. In the major cities of the Republic there are numerous cultural and leisure institutions with minimal ticket prices or with free entry. There are public schools and kindergartens here, and the level of education at local universities is recognized throughout Europe. The local population is supported by the state, development programs and social assistance measures are in place.
• Ease of obtaining a residence permit. The Portuguese government is interested in attracting foreign investors and highly qualified personnel, which is why the country has numerous programs for moving to permanent residence. For this purpose, “golden visas” are issued; any foreigner can obtain the right to permanent residence in the country, even if his activity consists of freelancing.
