The Real Reason Americans Are Leaving Portugal: Has the Dream Soured?
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- Опубліковано 29 тра 2024
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Our Rich Journey - The Real Reason Americans Are Leaving Portugal: Has the Dream Soured?: Portugal has been a popular destination for American expats in recent years, attracting them with its beautiful landscapes, affordable living, and welcoming culture. However, not all expat stories have happy endings. In this video, we explore the reasons we've personally observed behind Americans leaving Portugal. We'll discuss the challenges they face, from bureaucratic hurdles to rising costs and cultural differences. Sometimes, despite the best intentions, things just don't work out as planned. Join us as we uncover the real experiences of those who've lived the dream and faced the reality. Whether you're thinking about moving to Portugal or just curious about the expat experience, this video will provide valuable insights into the complexities of living abroad.
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As an American, I find that many times when we move a broad, we don't adapt to the culture. We want all the benefits of the US and none of the negatives of the new country. Life doesn't work that way. To enjoy a new country, you really need to learn the language and the culture. Also, we can complain about bureaucracy etc...but at the same time the US also has it. We just didn't have to experience it, because we were born there. Also, I really dislike the term expats. If we leave US and go to a new country, we are immigrants. The glory days of being special because we are American are over. We have to come to grips with that. If we want to be accepted in a new country, we have to play by there rules...
Exactly, and the same goes for those coming to live in the USA.
Exactly,why do Europeans and American think they're expats but anyone not from those groups are inmigrants?
Well said.
You fully get it!
Thank you for that answer. Also take the positives of the other country btw.
Regards from Austria, Hedi
The main question should be: Why are americans leaving the US...?
There's already a quadrillion videos on that 😂😂😂
That’s an easy answer. It never can compare to the USA 🇺🇸!!
Portugal is safer.
Crime, cost and China has purchased the most important industries and farm land here in the U.S.
We know the answer. It started in 2016.
Expat 17 years now. I rarely intermingle with other expats and thats the secret to my success!
...immigrant 17 years......
Maybe you could start calling yourself a happily integrated immigrant then…ex-pat is a dishonest word
Exactly.
Chao.
Retired Vietnam era veteran, ex Detroiter, expatriate currently living in México and Colombia.
Totally agree
One very important point to remember is, wherever country you go, respect the country, the culture and the people. If you do all these 3 things you most certainly will be just fine.
Not with a 40% tax rate.....ridiculous.
@@saintpreferred9223tax rate in France for capital gains, dividends etc. Are between 30-40% so …
Spot on
and learn the language.
Except illegal immigrants that come there in the USA
Good video. Came here for retirement in 2018. Bought a small house in a village and have been there for 6 years. We wanted a quieter life after 30 plus years in nyc. We have been welcomed. All the problems you mentioned are real but your insight into the bad effects of negativity is spot on. One has to move to portugal and embrace it. My wife and I have found the adventure of adopting a new homeland invigorating and satisfying.
All the best to you guys! 👍
😊
I agree wholeheartedly! Embrace the new country, see it as an adventure. So many Americans never leave their country and I often think this is a reason why Americans are so negative about foreigners. Being a tourist is not the same thing as being a traveler, going on a tour is not the way to experience other cultures and lifestyles. Living, even for just a few years, in other countries is an education of its own! All the wonderful ppl I have met over my travels and living in Europe for decades now has been so worth it.
People don't understand some of these challenges are the same in the US as a foreigner entering....You can't do anything without an SSN but you need a phone, bank account, drivers license etc. You have to roll with the punches, understand and accept the things you have no control over. Pick your battles! Expats always congregate to come and complain about the same topics, every place always has good and bad and if you don't stop to smell the roses you will regret it. Live in the moment, be patient and think about why you left your country of residence.
Exactly! People forget that expats are immigrants too, the difference in words is just the point of reference. To the country you're originally from you're an expat, to the country you went into you're an immigrant, doesn't matter where you came from or for how long you plan to stay in the new country. And that comes with all the problems that immigrants have, so you have to be prepared to face adversities before moving to another country.
😊😊 thank you life in every city has it own challenges so one have be super prepared before traveling to new destinations
Somehow the millions pouring into the US illegally are able to do all these things.
I'm a Portuguese/South African currently living between the Netherlands and South Africa. Portugal is a much softer landing than say the Netherlands. People are way more friendly and accepting of foreigners in Portugal. But culture is always different wherever you go, so learning the language and culture is a must to find some connection. If you're straight out of say the US, then avoid the rural areas, you'll be lost there. If you're looking for good work opportunities and a bump-up in your career then the Netherlands is a great European destination for that. Portugal is an extremely safe and child-centred society. If you are looking for good weather, cheap accommodation and beautiful landscapes then South Africa is your place, but safety and basic services are hugely problematic and getting worse. So hey, in my view pick-your-poisin as there is no perfect place on this planet. Practice humility and gratitude and that will take you far anywhere you go. Muito obrigado e bem apresentado!
South Africa is also very far and even if one wants to travel "within" Africa, it is expensive and one has to hop and skip a lot just to go to a neighboring country. Africa is HUGE and if you like traveling to Europe, Asia, etc just getting out of Africa is at least 7 hours. It is indeed beautiful but not "travel friendly". And the crime is off the charts!
South Africa!!! what…
I definitely want to live in 1 of the 3 places you listed!
'S Africa' you must be joking. Yea if you don't mind widespread violent crime and regular blackouts which just makes it more dangerous, then absolutely, head to SA!
'Affordable housing in Portugal, lol. I've been based in Spain from California since the 90s and had thought about moving to Portugal during the upcoming summer months. But minimum rents for a basic studio is 1200€+ a month during summer, and to rent a room in a shared home is 500+ a month. I'm 55, I don't want to share with others at my age being constantly reminded that I'm over the hill!
So you’re South African of Portuguese descent; there are many such people here in South Africa. Been here for centuries. One of my high school friend’s family in Pretoria are originally from a place called Madeira. Apparently her great great grand parents over 2 centuries ago came to South Africa and been here ever since
I originally was going to retire to Portugal, but chose France instead. I preferred the language and being closer to the rest of Europe. Now, after being in France for the last five months, I've decided to head back to the USA. For me, it is the beurocracy and just how difficult it is to get anything done. I knew this going in, but knowing something and living it are two different things.
Thanks for sharing this. Are you a "true" retiree ? i.e. visiting the country, making new friends, etc... Or do you have a small side business going on ?
Lol, n'est pas possible is commonly said lol.
Hi, I have traveled all over Europe and there are so many other great places in Europe to live as an American. Croatia, Czechia, Austria, Spain, Poland and many more. Portugal is also too far from the other EU Countries if you like traveling by train, bus or car. Why not try another Country before going back to the US?
Have you thought of crossing up into the UK or Ireland as a homebase and exploring neighboring countries from there?
Just curious what were you trying to have done ?
Construction stuff?
You are the perfect expat. Seriously, any immigrant that's willing to work hard, learn the customs and culture and language adds to the society that they're adopting. I hope for continued success for you and your family.
thank you for the post. I am originally from the Azores, came to the US back in 1971 as a very little girl. US Citizen, have loved growing up in the States, but now am going to move back to Portugal for retirement. I want a different quality of life and we find it in Portugal.
Portugal is a country that we are considering moving to after retirement. 😊
Beautiful! I’m Azorean Portuguese too (grandmother came to US as a baby) but my dad never leaned Portuguese 😢sadly. Im an expat in Switzerland for last 10 years and learning German has been tough! But kids are going through citizenship process now. I’m next this fall!
Enjoy relocating back to your homeland!
Met many people who returned back to their homeland after decades of absence. The place and mentality greatly changed with the times. Romantic notions from our childhood are just that. It will be an emotional roller coaster. Happy Retirement!
I am Vietnamese living in America and I LOVE Portugal!!! I LOVE the warm, friendly Portuguese people, culture, language, history, DELICIOUS FOOD and society. I want to live among one of the nicest peoples in the world!!
VIVA PORTUGAL!!! 😍🥰
Agree
Thank you for your appreciation of Portuguese culture and it's people. ❤Peace and goodwill to you.
Portuguese people also love Vietnamese culture, at least me and my family did like most part of that same area of Asia very kind people very humble and lots of friendly people that love children
Good time for you to move!
Same back at you. I love most Asian countries (still missing a lot of them but loved all that I have visited). The weather is great. Culture is amazing. The food is so yummy.. and the temperature of the water is heaven (the sea is too cold in Portugal). A Portuguese fan of Asia.
A lot of the price increases are due to people (expats and digital nomads) coming here and offering 2000€ for a month's rent. In the small town where I live you can't really get anything for less that 1000€ these days. Which is ridiculous, when you consider what the minimum wage is.
The world is geting very difficult to live all over
So true,still trying to figure out where is best.Germany‘s weather awful,Greece seems best till now
After years of traveling outside the US, I had an attack of homesickness. I was surprised. I never thought it would happen to me.
Well I like to live in scandinavia/Norway (I also have lived in Denmark)
I love it here. Safe. Hubby has cancer but love the healthcare. Living in a small city .
Not much happening.
@@Fegga1955 I’m moving to one of the Balearic Islands and can’t wait to leave the US. I think most European countries are better than the US. You just need to decide what you want. Do you want to live in the country side, in a city, near the beach, ect.
Est Europe or North Europe but one day they will become the same ... People don't learn 😮
Unfortunately the prices in Portugal have been going up which is making it hard for people who are from there and those of us who were born there and have dreamed of retiring there one day.
It's the same in other European countries. I'm from Belgium and saw a big influx of young Portugese people, along with everyone else. (mostly non-Europeans though) All those people coming in rapidly increased our house prices too, so as a result, a lot of people from Northern Europe with a bit of savings move South in the hopes of ever owning a home. Also, in the North there's a lot more crime as a result of mass immigration. Not politically correct to say, but it is what it is. Portugal is very safe by comparison.
Same complaints from my friends in Belgium, France and Germany where I’ve lived and also Austria, Italy, Spain, England, Netherlands, Poland, Croatia, Denmark etc etc
The US is the same way because of COVID it's sad 😔
Prices are going upwards everywhere!
The U.S. is the same because of COVID??? What are you talking about?
I moved to the Andalucían mountains from Barcelona during lockdowns.
Best decision of my life.
I'm not leaving. You can keep city life. The beauty, social life and peace is never boring for me. It only gets more interesting. City life is overrated. I go to Granada or Almeria or Madrid and can't wait to get out.
Never liked Portugal!! Greece is a lot better !!!!!
@@37taraPlease tell us why? ❤
My parents had a house in Orgiva Spain growing up I used to visit the alpujarras a lot as a child. So many great memories there. Such a beautiful part of Spain
It’s the same here in Italy, we too are happy and retired in our slice of paradise one hour out of Roma. We too have a great community of expats that surround us. La vita e bella❤
Where are you in Italy? My family is near Rome, and I'm fluent in Italian. Locating there is possible for me.
I bet who you havent met in Lisbon, because I never met one in Barcelona... a parent whos burried a child to violence. We left FL after the Marjorie Stoneman Douglas shooting. My daughter was tired of worrying if her school was next. We moved to Spain and everyone gained a level of personal safety that cant be explained to the average American. No a single person says... be safe or call me when you get home or let us know your ok... we just hug eachother, say "love you, see you next week" and at 0100, walk our separate ways home after a night of rooftop tapas and cava. Really an amazingvfeeling to have your 15yo walk out the door to meet friends at a noodle bar across town, and not be on pins and needles until they come back home. All the USD cant replace our babies. I hope we reach a point where we refuse to raise the next class of kindergarteners who have active shooter drills.
This is our #1 reason for looking to leave the US. Everywhere has bureaucracy, education issues, economic issues, etc. but, not many places have the same general lack of safety.
Excellently stated!
Immigrants will change that
It may sound like an odd question but are you and your family Black? Like is there any outright racism for Black children?
What part of Spain?
Some Americans are leaving Portugal but others are arriving. The ones that arrive unprepared may not stay, the ones that arrive prepared will probably never leave.
I agree, but it is more to be flexible, able to adjust your plan, you could research PT for 10 years and still do not feel fully prepared, sometime you just have to pack your bags and be flexible!
Prepared - as in learned the local language as much as they could before moving there.😂
Exactly.
Well if the new comers buy from the leavers then a lot of work will have already been done presumably! But the prices will be higher! It’s funny how we don’t learn from the experiences of others. We think we’re different. And perhaps we are!
@davidmartinspresents
I agree. How can you move overseas without checking everything out before making such a move. Visit, study the laws, the money situation, the towns and cities, the jobs available. 🤷
I think it is essential that those who want to move anywhere should always go and visit a few times. ALWAYS do the homework prior to any major move especially to a different country.
Unfortunately, and perhaps out of desperation, many Americans have NOT being doing the due diligence of visiting a few times first and undoing their expectations.. 😅
Right. I thought i might like spain....but another country fits me better.
Visits aren't enough. A person needs to stay for a few months and really see what it's like. Take a sabbatical from work and try it first.
I agree wholeheartedly. Also inform Urselves about the laws & rights.
I see the same back in Latin America, people watch these UA-cam videos then decide to move, the language and culture barrier, the talk about (foreigners) EXPATS communities, half the time they don’t engage with locals and they expect the same on the spot fix like they had back home, I live in Europe but to be honest I’m sick of hearing their bull crap complaints when I’m back home, we didn’t drag you nor imprisoned them so just leave. All I see them doing is making the cost of living high for the locals.
This video is spot on. I got to know my favourite part of Portugal over 14 years. Made connections and friends in advance. Moved in 2023 and hitting all the usual issues re bureaucracy, residency card delays etc. But love it here. The people, the beauty, the climate. Nothing in life is permanent but embrace the adventure. Happiness and positivity come from within
I’m still going but am a senior who will be renting
Nobody can be happy when they don't have the basics of life such as food clean water and shelter. Humans physically die without those basics and nobody wants to have children when the prospect of being unable to afford extortionate rents may land them homeless and living in squalor on the streets. Looking within will not meet your very basic physical needs to remain physically alive on this planet.
Thanks for this video. I had a good laugh about the expat groups. I lived in Denmark 20 years ago for two years and I specifically avoided expat groups and had only Danish friends at that time. I understand the soft landing concept but these groups are not always what they are cracked up to be. These groups had people I normally wouldn't have hung out with in the US, so I didn't think being abroad would change that...
How tolerant and accepting are places like Lisbon towards Muslims?
Right! The expat groups in france suck....i since a lot of racism to be honest, and classism, and the warmth and welcome of the locals has been so amazing. I even get the french pricing on items.
@@fizzahraza4926and how accepting are Muslims towards the culture of the countries they move in??? That’s the real question
Leaving Portugal is ok but going back to states? No way
Compare the crime statistics in US versus most other countries. Also, go to foreign cites and then visit San Francisco. Disgusting
Just moved to Hawaii and I love it
The US is a crime filled hell hole. Cannot wait to leave.
@@jeffreysikesphotography5499Why not go to Carmel by the Sea ?
@@jeffreysikesphotography5499 Its Jamie Davies I live in England country but I want to move to America country in my independent apartment in America is that possible for me @jeffreysikesphotography5499 my mate?????
2020.. Everyone come to Portugal.. 2024: We didn’t expect all yall to really come 😂
Well, the combination of two climates does magic. Weather climate and tax climate...
@@Roar. Unfortunately, winter comes it's cold and damp in Portugal - tax climate is even colder.
I'm still in Switzerland. I love it! I'm not going anywhere.
Switzerland is more reasonable as a country.
How do you do with the local language? Hard? Not too bad! Appreciate your comments.
Beautiful country 😊👍
Lived in Switzerland for seven years. Expensive and closed up.
Good for visiting not living there😞
There are two kinds of expats: prepared and unprepared. The prepared have done the requisite cultural and financial research. Some people also treat expat locales as trends. Lisbon and Mexico City today, Prague in the 1990s. Social media presents FOMO scenarios and glamour videos, and too many people fall for those. Your family have made sound choices all along, and that is inspiring to see.
Hope the government set regulations for foreigner to buy real-estate for renting out to other foreigner or arnb. That destroy the whole housing for those who live there. Dont do the same mistake as Spain. I'm not welcomed as a tourist in Barcelona, Mallorca and know it's start on canary Island. Hope to go to Portugal og bli Der om vinteren. Cold winters of snow and - 22 grades C is not god
Visiting and living are two different things. Homesickness is a real pain too
Hello, I’ve been a subscriber for a couple or more years now and I very much appreciate your UA-cam channel, I’ve learned a few things and I thank you. I opened my Fidelity account after watching a video of yours showing step by step, and I’m so glad I did. I’m retired and moved to Portugal last April 2023, I’ve been very happy here and at peace! I’d love to meet you in person at a cafe if possible! I live in Lisbon also! ❤
Living in Portugal is a gift that we are grateful to be able to give ourselves, and an example we want to share with others, especially our adult children. We are subjecting ourselves to the local processes with respect and curiosity, as guests, and hopefully soon as residences. Nice job, Aman!
We visited Porto for one week late Feb-early March and loved it. We are 99.5% sure we will move there upon retirement. BUT, we are reserving final judgment for a few reasons: 1) my GF had never been to Europe. During my 11yrs of active duty AF, I lived in Germany for 6.5yrs and spent 6yrs living amongst the citizens rather than on the bases where I was stationed. So I have a level of understanding about Europe that she will never have. Thus, even considering how much she loved Porto, I am constantly pointing out the cultural differences she will encounter once there for the long term. Like living without a car, the language, local and national customs in addition to many of the things you mention in this video.2) my mom is 92 and next month I am expecting the birth of my 3rd grandchild. We chose Porto for specific reasons. I am coming back to Porto in the fall for a 2-3week stay to explore the areas around the city so w can choose the perfect community for us. I don't buy a pair of sweats on impulse, so we will be careful, thoughtful and rational about the last .5% of our decision. Everyone should be just as intentional. For those listening, the call of Portugal is strong and loud. But choose carefully to avoid regret. Great video, hopefully we get a chance to meet with you during our next trip.
I agree with your decisions. I previously decided if I was to leave the states, it would be to Italy. I did my due diligence and researched every aspects of Italy. I am still learning the language (I am beginner-intermediate). The only thing I have not done was to visit! When I came across this channel, A&C threw a monkey wrench in my decision making. My thoughts turned to Portugal. While I have never been to Portugal, I feel one of the main issue of expats leaving is that they do not know/understand the language and/or culture. Expats from the states should now understand what people from other countries arriving in the states are dealing with.
Why would you have to be without a car in Portugal
What's Porto
I lived and studied in Porto for 5 years and love many cities in the northern part of Portugal! I went as far as Vidago! Part of my family still lives in Lisbon. Good luck!!!
PORTO is nice but it's COLD AS HELL, I would never live there full time
Go to the coast of Spain, it's nicer and warmer
Maybe your GF doesn't want to tell you, she hates cold weather
IT'S big negative
I was thinking of continuing my retirement in Portugal. I did two scouting trips, covering diferent cities. I loved it. But I realized I save MUCH more money staying put in the island of Puerto Rico.
But how is the crime in Puerto Rico? I am from Brazil but I do not want to retire there due to the crime. I live in USA but I really want to be closer to the beach.
Mas vale malo conocido que bueno por conocer. Yo sigo 50/50 entre dos paises.
@rebeccagutierrez1960 Wow I'm pretty surprised to hear that. One of my brothers was born and raised in P.R. (I was born in NY) and he left P.R. for better work opportunities. Well he moved to Orlando, worked and retired from Disney. Decided that nothing beats that island charm and way if life so he goes back to P.R. to go house hunting. Sadly after covid, so many US based companies bought up so much land that they drove up the prices of homes in the desirable areas he went looking for. He came right back to Orlando cause he no longer could afford to go back home. Now he went looking for a house, maybe apartments are cheaper? Just surprised to read that someone finds PR more affordable.
All is ok long the money last.
The problem is if you really get sick and you need a good health care.
A friend of my move to Philippines for the same reason.
Then he got sick and he spent all his money to cure himself.
Finally his family helped to pay for his flight to back home.😢
Pay your taxes. Puerto Rico is getting ripped off by people like you.
Hi guys, once again. Another great explanation of normal living in a fantastic place, Portugal. We just returned from our month-long visit to Porto and Lisboa. We enjoyed both cities and they provided us with valuable information we were searching for. We wanted to know if the portuguese lifestyle would improve our health. It did! After the first week I had to cut in half the Rx I was taking. Now that we have returned to the US, I have had to return to the levels of meds I was taking before. I can't explain it but I'm pretty sure it's the food. I hope to see you soon.
This is has nothong to do with Portugal go to Africa you will get the same feeling
It's definitely the food.
Wow! Do you mind if I ask you the nature of the symptoms that went away while in Portugal?
yes it is the food! Ive lived in Europe for 25 years, and every time i go back to the States.. problems from the food.... ;)
The grass is always greener on the other side.
Right
And sometimes it is actually nicer to live in your adopted country. I left my country of birth in 2006. I prefer it here.
Not!
Visited Lisbon in April ‘21. It was a bit chilly for me. But I found the Portuguese people to be very friendly and accommodating. Also enjoyed the local bakeries, butcher shops and markets. Beautiful place. But I like a little warmer weather.
Algarve ☀️⛱️
WHO wants to spend your money to move somewhere only to freeze ? FORGET IT
So well said! The negativity of others are a killer! Stay away from those people. They bring nothing to the table of life!
If you cross the river and you look for housing in Montijo or Alcochete, you'll be at 20 mins from Lisbon and houses are great and much cheaper
Excellent advice! I think too often Americans think they have to be in the center. I am purposely looking to live in a place away from the city center so I can find a reasonably affordable place.
You just ruined those places with your words
@@14ariel77😂😂
Amon preaching today, "Since the beginning of time, people have been migrating around the world to find a better life"
Hard to believe it has been 5 years already.
This was me when I relocated here from Finland this January. I was so frustrated I wanted to go back. Rent and bureaucracy annoyed me.
Portugal is beautiful!!
Expectations kill dreams .
Always surround yourself with positive people.
And always do your homework.
Thanks ORJ!!
Happy Easter!!
Do you feel any hostility from locals about the nomads/expats driving up prices?
I left the US 4.5 years ago for Portugal. I'm not planning to leave this country (yet), but that's always an option in positive way. No country is perfect and yes, there are things that I don't like about Portugal, but I just feel very fortunate to be able to live and experience other country. I know many people who want to do the same but just are not able to due to various reasons. In the future, if I find another country that I'm interested in living, maybe I'll try to move there, but until then, I'll be here with a smile.
You re feeding another beast Europe ( they re already killing and doing a lot of harm in Africa with the US.. you will be hugely one day be oppressed mark my words
I’m an expat in Australia. Could never go back to the USA, as broken as it is
I agree completely with your assessment. I still can’t believe how many people come to Portugal and immediately buy a home or bought a home online without ever having come into the country. Take at least a year before buying a house or apartment. I know that, as Americans, we have this need to own where we live but your money is not being “wasted” by renting for a while. Personally, my reason for returning to the US would be missing our grandchildren.
Fantastic vídeo 👏 as a portuguese that has lived in 3 different cities and that thought about leaving the country and wants to retire early, you got it 100% right 👌
It took me three hours to sign for a phone contract. Correct, building quality is low. Unfortunately, Lisbon does not have as many direct flights to other European countries as our former home - UK. Extremely high taxation when NHR completes. Portugal is no longer as welcoming as it once was - a lot has changed in the last couple of years.
That seems to be what always happens. A place becomes popular because it's cheap for a decent quality of life. Then a bunch of people move there and make the housing and other services more expensive. Then the government tightens up the visa requirements.
1000 for a 3bdr apt is a bargain depending on the location. On the tax issue, you need to consult with a local accountant, not a UA-camr. I loved in Porto and loved the place. Returned to US for family reasons. Some of the best experiences in our lives while living in Porto.
@@edSabio572 That's what surprised us, our local accountant did a 'what if' on our income. We've applied for another residency, somewhere tropical.
I am an American living in Italy, and I stay away from those negative individuals. They will poison my good mood. I know a lot of people who moved to Portugal from the UK and they are so happy there. I applaud your willingness to listen to your teenagers needs. It is hard for young people when living in a rural area of Italy or Portugal. Bravo to you and your family. Nice to watch your video and thank you for your lovely information. K from Italy
I’m a US expat living in Brazil, small fishing town - love it. Wife is Portuguese citizen, we are considering relocating to Portugal - excited to visit and see what happens.
Just two points I don't agree with! 1st paying bills and taxes is one of the easiest things to do in Portugal, nearly everything can be paid through online banking or by using an ATM, and also, a lot of the bureaucracy can be done online you don't have to physically go places to book appointments and fill in paper work. 2nd leaving Portugal to study abroad when we have some of the best public universities that are extremely affordable, especially for expats, seems strange to me. There are also private universities with award winning courses but I'm not going to plug them here. 😊 Oh and one last thing, how easy is it to become a legal citizen in America or the UK or anywhere else? How about thinking what it's like for emigrants in your country of origin before poo-pooing about what it's like here in Portugal, still one of the easiest places to get a residency permit and eventually become a full citizen with all the same rights as any one born in this country. Wait 😅 just one more thing occurred to me! House prices are what they are because we've been letting to many people in and not building enough new homes to accommodate all these new residents and the first to suffer these exorbitant prices are the young portuguese looking to rent or to buy a house for the 1st time with the meagre salaries that they earn! This last point, more than anything else, is making portuguese people become less accepting of emigrants and that is just bad all over!
Is this Colonization 2.0? Move to another country, associate mostly with other ex-pats, run up the prices of homes, goods, and services with your American dollars, and eventually make the place unaffordable and unrecognizeable for/to the natives of the country?
I went to check out Portugal this year after hearing about how inexpensive and amazing it is. It is definitely an amazing, beautiful country, with amazing, beautiful people, culture and food, but it most definitely isn't inexpensive anymore. All the expats living there have driven prices way up.
2019, I retired and moved to BCN with my 15yo daughter. Even through we were locked down for real for months during covid and she eneded up in online school, it was an amazing time. In Dec 2022, she graduated and we decided to leave Barcelona to roam around SE Asia for 6 mos before returning to the USA for her freshman year of college. I've dumped her in year round shared housing and claimed a global nomad life. I've gone back to see friends in Barcelona and Florence and fallen in love with Istanbul. I have 30 more days of being back in FL before I'm gone again until Jan 2025. Most issues I see with expats I run across is, they were running from something. So they were focused on solving a singular solution issues as opposed to considering the big picture. Often times they visit somewhere as a tourist, and think that's what real life is going to be like. As Americans, I don't think we think of other countries, like we think of our own. For instance, no only is the vibe different between Portugal and Spain, just inside Spain, the autonomous communities (like states) can have a different vibe like NYC to LA or TX and FL. I guess we just don't have the time to really explore things more thoroughly before we make the big leap. Unless you absolutely hate your adopted country, I'd suggest moving to a different city or region before repatriating. And, Spain def does not move on US time. Patience is a virtue was a saying invented for dealing with the govt in Catalonia. Absolutely avoid those negative Nancys and Neds. They should have stayed in America, because they needed a mindset change way more than a location change. Ive been following you guys since you started. Ive enjoyed your journey. Hope everyone looking finds their happy place to thrive and live theie best life. One Love
You get it. I’m an American expat in Australia, have travelled everywhere over the past 30+ years, speak a bunch of different languages, etc. I’m mostly embarrassed by the bad behaviour i see from Americans abroad. The expectation that the rest of the world needs to accommodate them, speak English, deliver excessively over the top service everywhere. “Sorry honey, you’re not in Murica anymore” 😂. Love your story and glad you’re a good American who knows how to travel right 🥰🙏
I think property prices will eventually correct in a lot of Portugal. That’s when I will look at buying my place.
Probably not much in the main cities … seems that the low interest rate is keeping from getting much of a correction there .
Correct going up more. Happened everywhere in western Europe.
My family visited Portugal years ago and thought it a beautiful country. I loved this video and how well explained and thoughtful your points are. I am now very intrigued to learn about your father's experience in Japan ❤
Negative people are toxic…surround yourself with positive energy
I moved to Portugal in late 2021..I was initially looking at homes in central Portugal..but stayed in Nazare at an airbnb..I looked at many homes in centre Portugal only to realize that I had fallen in love with Nazare..the people are so warm.. culture so strong..found a perfect home in a Portuguese neighbourhood..still trying to learn the language, I can read it but speaking it is a different thing..not sure I will ever learn how to roll the 'r'
Say Diga Diga Diga ... 20x will help your tongue
We moved from Europe to NZ and did our research. Spent 1 year there before the move. The effects of COVID are so severe on the economy that the already high cost of living only got worse. So many people are leaving for Australia because they can’t afford to live in NZ. It’s not always as simple as “you weren’t prepared”
Well said.
I left NZ 11 years ago because of the extortionate prices, low wages, and crappy houses . A very beautiful country with very limited opportunities. I went to Oz and I’m much happier 😊
All valid points and worth considering BEFORE moving. I would say, find community, ask questions, visit for an extended period & make the best decision for yourself. Great video. 👍🏾
Thanks for the video. I am a Brazilian doctor validating my certification to go live in Portugal. I have two daughters in Spain. I just need to learn from you about investments
Salaries are really "low" for doctors in Portugal compared to other countries in Europe, especially if you take into account the cost of housing. So yes, be wise (and prudent) with ur investments... All the best
Figure out a way to stay at least a few months. Day to day living is very different from a few visits for a week or two at a ime.
Amon! This is a great video. There is so much research that goes into moving, and let alone moving across country.
Brilliantly said! The longer I'm in Portugal, the more in love with it I am!
I appreciate too how you mentioned the complainers. I run an Expat group on our island in the Azores and that is my number one rule: no complaining! It really does bring everyone down and solves no problem.
Love your enthusiasm! And love that your dad is still in Japan! Great video!
In the last years there has been lots of property price speculation by expats, which caused a huge inflated increase in the house prices. This speculation priced out the local portuguese community, who earns on average 700 euros a month. They cannot rent or buy property in their own country anymore. Many are homeless now. Go to various parts of Lisbon, Porto or other bigger towns , including the wealthiest parts and find people sleeping in the street in tents or simply under a cardbox. The increase in poverty and homelessness among the local community has caused a increase in crimes particularly theft, robbery, rape and gun crimes ( Portugal has a huge problem with illegal guns) . The statistics portraits Portugal as a safe country but in reality is not. Also the mentally between a portuguese person and a expat from USA, UK or any other developed country is vastly different, and not helped by the ongoing resentment ( rightly) felt by the portuguese community, which leads to conflicts. At the same time Portugal opened its border in a uncontrolled manner to unqualified manual emigrants from India/ Pakistan, Bangladesh and Brazil. This in turn has put a lot of pressure on the already poor economy and lack of housing housing, because many of those immigrants, do not actually work but are allowed social benefits.Crime rate particularly rape against women has increased a lot. The Americans are increasingly not welcomed in Portugal because they are viewed as greedy people who just want to speculate on the housing market, pocket the profit , get the portuguese passport while not supporting the local economy by creating bussiness or paying taxes and not making an effort to learn the portuguese language. Thankfully the housing bubble is bursting and the government is reviewing all the benefits that brought american expats to Portugal in the first place. Another point is that many expats buy cheap dilipated places and think that it will be cheap and quick to fix it up to sell again for a profit. Its not! The bureaucracy is immense, its hard to find decent builders ( when you do, its expensive and unrealiable) . You are limited by what changes you can do in a property, and if you do it illegally, the fines are huge when you get caught and will never be able to resell. Also there has been an increase break- ins in houses with the use of guns and knives while the owners are at home ( dont go by tje statistics, instead watch the local news in portuguese, and observe your surroundings)
Are you American and do you live in Portugal now? I’m just curious bc I wanted to move there before everyone flooded the place and now I’m not so sure! I figured there would be resentment towards Americans after a while.
Muita mentira que você falou aí, qual o seu interesse em difundir notícias falsas ? salário médio de um português é de 1400 € não de 700 € como VC falou , problemas com armas em Portugal , só se forem armas de caça pois há milhares de caçadores, comentário mesquinho esse seu.
Americans have to change their mentality of have everything a phone call away
I totally agree with you. The whole world is not the USA.
Obrigada por partilhar o teu pensamento. Acho que estás 100% correto. E obrigada pela positividade do teu comentário.👍❤️
As a Portuguese living abroad, I understand the challenges when you move to a different country/culture. If you have the feeling that that´s the place you want to be (I had that feeling in Singapore) just let your hair down and let the time do its magic...you will see that after a while everything will come to place...
I love Malaysia and Kuala Lumpur! Anyone leaving should head to Asia!
But these places are not very welcoming to people with chocolate skin, Africans so ...
Always refreshing information. Portugal has been on my list before the “trend”. After visiting, country remains top of our list!!
This is a very good overview and I really liked how he pointed out the pros and cons of moving to Portugal. This guy is really on point!!! Thank you.
Love your videos, positive attitude, advice, life lessons, and perspective. Wish I'd achieved financial independence in time to give Lisbon a go before housing prices had skyrocketed. It sounds amazing. Would love to hear your Dad's story about why Japan was the place for him!
$1000/- for a 3 bedroom apartment!!;
Why would someone choose Portugal vs staying put at home ?
I think it all depends on where you are from... believe me, living in the San Francisco Bay Area, even $2000.00 seems reasonable. Thats why my husband and I are trying to move to Portugal before the end of the year.
Because I pay $2400 for the same size apartment😂
@@clbert7460Lol, I would love to jump on that deal.
@@lindastangelo1636exactly. They should try Miami/Broward Fl $2,000 for 1 bedroom, water not included.
good luck finding an apto in any decent city in PT for $1,000
Checking in from the DMV.
Very well pointed out! I love your passion when talking about having the courage to try new places, new countries, meet new people, ... . Congratulations on your success!
Thanks for this analysis…always well-thought!
Thanks for providing another option to explore.
Great video. Life is exactly what you make of it and you will find what your looking for. Look for everything that is wrong and you will find it.
Thank you. I’ve been visiting the Algarve and like it very much and I’m thinking of relocating here for a good part of the year from the US. You have given me a lot to think about. Good luck to you and your family.
I feel the same way about living in Japan as Ahmad and Christina’s dad. We love it here. I see expats leaving here for the same reasons mentioned here. What makes things easier for us is we have family here. My wife being from Japan is a huge help when making this adjustment to our new life. Our children fit in being of Japanese descent too as we never let them forget their Japanese heritage too while living in the US.
The social aspect might be underrated, especially when you have children. Lisbon has become almost unaffordable for a lot of people, but I don’t think I could live in the countryside at this stage of my life… (or just have it as a weekend home, if you can afford it)
Oh god not the Florida retirement community! Thx for the warning! Very informative video!
Yeah I moved to Florida thinking it was a good place to retire, five years and Ive never been so wrong. I wanted to move to Costa Rica or Portugal. I'm revisiting these ideas.
I found, living in spain, the number 1 reason for retired expats leaving was ill health/ bereavement. There is no social support structure, people there rely on family. But your family is thousands of miles away. And getting around if you become disabled and you can’t drive is also a major problem: for some reason women who drive back home can’t drive overseas, so if something happens to the husband they are stuck.
Very similar issues here in Malaga Spain, yet I am 10 years here and Loving it 🥰😍
I’ve traveled extensively and the lack of infrastructure in India was the worse. Waiting on a train platform for 7 hours!! I don’t think anyplace is worth being away from my family ❤️
Are you comparing a developed country with a developing country 🤔
Fantastic video. Thank you for the encouragement.
Great video! Very relevant points and realistic comments. I lived in Portugal for a short while and can relate to that. Amazing country and people. And the food... OMG, people should experience that.
Looking to move to Spain soon, we love Madrid so much. We will checking out Valencia next. Thank you for sharing ❤
Now that you've been in Portugal for 5 years, do you plan to file for citizenship?
Really appreciate your channel. Was interested in Portugal, especially the Azores, but not anymore, I'm afraid. Tax benefits are gone, and I think there are more tax-friendly places like Montenegro or Albania.
But then you’d have to live in Montenegro or Albania 😮
Montenegro is a beautiful country and people.
Thank you for sharing. Give me food for thought 😊
Fantastic description of living in Portugal as an expat and what appears to be problems. I am living here since 2023 and I love it (this is my fourth country, after Brazil, France, and USA).
I visited Portugal and loved Lagos, Tavira, Cascais, Lisbon. I’m not set to retire for a couple of years yet, so I am very disappointed that the NHR is no longer available. I am also concerned about the current political uncertainties. Now will Portugal be as lucrative an option? Will the taxes be a deterrant? I hope not, but now I feel forced to consider France as well.
I spent too months in the Algarve.
More expensive than in 90% days of the US.
And people didn’t like Americans. Most Americans I saw, when asked, said they were from Canada.
Not really. Nothing against Americans. Actually, there are too many Brits in the Algarve and people there are sick of the drunkenness and high-handedness of many of them. There are many well-publicized episodes of Brits behaving badly in the rest of Europe (remember what happened in Porto during the football championships). It's the reason so many of us said "good riddance when Brexit happened.
same in madeira
O problema é que todo mundo chega aí achando que os locais deveriam falar inglês com eles, igual aos americanos nos EUA querendo que todo mundo fale inglês (“Speak American when you’re in Murica!”) 😂
lol
@@wisu3529Os residentes precisam de aprender o idioma onde vão morar bastante tempo.
Great update!!! We visited Portugal, but decided that Panama would be our home, and now are waiting for an elderly parent to pass ti be permanent ex-pats. Always a good idea to do lots of research and be willing to move to another place, like you did!!
I agree w/ you 30%, but don't ever compare Portugal to USA, Portugal is not for ppl looking for work or ppl that want to go to the bank or any office building between 12;00 n 2;00 pm.....2 hr lunchs, even banks close down for lunch, between 12 n 2 pm even taxis are hard to find ....LOL. Only restaurants n grocery stores r open....LOL.
Portugal has made our lives so much richer and it’s not easy moving continents but we love it and I think I fall more in love with Lisbon every week. Ps - we had the same reaction to the Algarve. lol.
♨️ The only time I've seen ppls dream sour is when they have unrealistic expectations, but if you go to a new place with a big bright Fresh outlook life is beautiful no matter where you land 🎉
Thank you so much for the information I love Portugal/Lisbon. Stay blessed.
I love the story of your father. He looks cool and cute in the video. I am german and living in thailand. I am happy here and sure i am missing my friends and country from time to time. I am enjoying y our videos. thank you for sharing!
Thanks for the insight.
Im considering a retirement plan in Antarctica, cheap land, affordable housing options and i think it will be much more quiet and really chill. Whatcha think....?
And why not Siberia? It should be less cold!
I wholehearted agree with your assessment of spending time with negative people. Don't do it. Enjoy the positives about your life and where you are at.
I live in NYC. For me, I prefer living in Portugal especially East Algarve in the middle of the winter. That’s my escape where I don’t see anyone, no cars, and don’t have to wait in line for anything. It’s very pleasant depends on how you look at it.