Cost of Living in the Algarve: The Breakdown
Portugal’s minimum wage is €920 per month in 2026, and that number matters because it is also the baseline many people use when they first look at moving to Portugal. In some cases, if you have at least that amount in passive income, such as a pension or US Social Security, you may potentially qualify to move here on the D7 Visa. But that figure does not tell you what it actually costs to live well in a place like …
The Algarve Without A Car – Here’s How To Do It
When planning a trip to the Algarve or considering a move to this stunning region of Portugal, many people assume that having a car is essential. However, there are several reasons why you might prefer to explore the Algarve without a car. While it is indeed possible to visit and even live in the Algarve without a car, it’s important to choose the right base. The quality of public transport in the Algarve can be described as mediocre, but its …
An Overview of International Schools in the Algarve
Are you considering making the Algarve your family’s new home? You’re in good company! The Algarve’s expat community in this stunning region is growing, and with it, the number of international schools has risen, offering a variety of educational options for families from the UK, USA, Canada, South Africa, Germany, the Netherlands, and all over. While the Portuguese education system is excellent and accommodating to foreign students, you might prefer an international education for your children. This is often the …
Interview: From Berlin to Porto – David McNeill of Expat Empire
David McNeill is the owner of Expat Empire, a website that helps you in the process of moving abroad and which he runs from Porto. But although he’s based in Portugal now, this wasn’t where he initially thought he’d end up. James: Tell me a little bit about yourself and how you ended up in Porto David: I’m originally from California but moved around a lot growing up due to my parents’ jobs. For me, the travel passion all started …
Porto For Foodies: 10 Regional Dishes to Look out for
I’ve spent a lot of time in Porto, and a lot of that time was spent eating. Over the years I’ve tried everything on this list, often making special pilgrimages to find each of the dishes. Hopefully it’ll help you, fellow foodie, make the most of your time in Porto. Loosen those belts foodies! Porto has some great regional dishes, many of which you’ll struggle to find in the rest of Portugal. Francesinhas, hot dogs, tripe, and Port – food …
A Guide to Living in the Western Algarve
The Algarve is often split into three sections: the Eastern Algarve, the Central Algarve, and the Western Algarve. Every region of the Algarve has its areas of natural beauty, but the Western Algarve, and in particular the Western Coast of the Algarve, is considered to be the more scenic part of the Algarve. It’s made up of rugged cliffs, a national park, and numerous small, often empty, and incredibly beautiful beaches. One of the most appealing aspects of the Western Algarve is its …
Algarve Foods: 10+ Local Dishes You Have to Try
While most people visit the Algarve for its warm weather and beautiful beaches, the region’s gastronomy is a hidden gem, offering a rich array of regional Portuguese dishes that you probably have never heard of before. Even within Portugal, Algarve cuisine isn’t particularly renowned, particularly when compared to the food of the North and Alentejo. Yet, there are quite a few regional dishes that are absolutely deserving of your attention — and your palette. The Algarve proudly presents iconic dishes …
Living in Lisbon as a Digital Nomad
Over the past few years, Lisbon has become one of the world’s top destinations for digital nomads looking to establish a base rather than simply pass through. While some people do visit for a few weeks or months, what sets Lisbon apart is the number of remote workers who choose to move here long-term. The Meetup group has more than 20,000 members and the Thursday night meetup regularly draws 100-300 attendees – evidence of a thriving community of people who’ve …
The Pros & Cons of Living in the Algarve
The Algarve has earned a fantastic international reputation: sunshine, beaches, and an global community that makes moving abroad feel less like jumping off a cliff and more like stepping onto something almost familiar. But it’s also Portugal—which means you get the good (safety, lifestyle, pastéis de nata) and the frustrating (bureaucracy, housing quirks, healthcare bottlenecks). And because so much of the Algarve runs on tourism, the experience can change dramatically depending on where you live and what month it is. …
Silver Coast Guide: What It’s Like to Live on Portugal’s Costa da Prata
Imagine waking up to the sound of Atlantic waves, strolling along golden sandy beaches, and immersing yourself in authentic Portuguese culture. This is the essence of life on Portugal’s Silver Coast, or Costa de Prata. Stretching roughly 150 kilometres (93 miles) north from Lisbon, this picturesque region offers a captivating blend of natural beauty, rich history, and modern amenities. The Silver Coast is home to a diverse array of towns and cities, each with its own unique character. From the …