Expat Advice: Culture Shock in Porto, Portugal

What is the name of the city or town that you are reporting on?

Porto

Did you receive any cross-cultural training for your move abroad? If yes, was it before or after the move?

We met with expat advisors in Portugal and an attorney in Lisbon, both via Zoom. We watched and interacted with "Expats Everywhere" YouTube videos and Zoom calls. We also Zoomed with friends me met on Portuguese FB sites.

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If they speak another language in your new country, do you speak the language? If yes, did you learn the language before you moved or while abroad? If no, are you planning to learn the language?

We know very little Portuguese, but we definitely plan to learn the language.

Were you worried or concerned about culture shock before you moved abroad?

Not overly so. We were actually looking forward to the newness we would experience.

How significant was the culture shock you experienced when you moved abroad?

Other than language barriers at times, the adjustment has been quite smooth. The language is an issue most often with those in governmental positions, not the everyday people.

Expats often talk about going through the "stages of culture shock." Examples include the honeymoon phase, the irritation-to-anger stage, the rejection of the culture stage, and the cultural adjustment phase. Do you feel like you went through these or any other stages as you settled into the new culture?

We are in a "breath of fresh air" stage. We no longer feel burdened by the toxicity of what was formerly surrounding us.

What, if any, were some of the changes you noticed in yourself that might have been caused by culture shock? These might include things such as anger, depression, anxiety, increased eating or drinking, frustration, homesickness, etc.

None of these have manifested themselve.

What are some things you appreciate most about the new culture?

The appreciation of living. Taking time to enjoy coffee, wine, cheese, and good conversation. Hurrying is frowned upon. Toxic politics do not dominate discussions. They do not come up.

What are the most challenging aspects of the new culture?

Language, most definitely.

Did you "commit" any embarrassing or humorous cultural blunders? If you did and you'd like to share them, please do tell!

We were yelled at by a check out staffer at Lidl because we did not know or understand where to put the empty shopping cart. We know now.

Do you have any advice or thoughts about culture shock you would like to share?

Be adventurous. Always look forward. Enjoy the successes of each day, even the tiny one's, and do not focus on the failures.