Adapting to the way of life in Central Portugal may take some time. Away from the big cities, life is slower paced than that of Britain. You may find things, such as paperwork, take longer to achieve when dealing with authorities. However the people are friendly and welcoming and have time to stand and chat to you.

Before coming to Portugal it is definitely an advantage to try learn a few words of the language. There are many books, courses and dvds available to help speed you on your way to fluency.

Even if you can communicate enough to say hello to your neighbours, order your lunch and comment on the weather it will certainly help you feel at home more quickly. It will also endear you to the Portuguese, who are fiercely proud of their language.

Portuguese take gastronomy seriously. In the Central region there are many excellent restaurants and cafes, which serve a variety of regional traditional dishes including roasted kid and bacalhau com natas (cod with cream) with superb locally produced wines. Eating out in Central Portugal is inexpensive and it is not unusual for a restaurant to offer a three course lunch with wine for 6€. If you have a sweet tooth you will enjoy the large selection of regional cakes and desserts available.

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