What do expats find most challenging?
We asked expats and digital nomads what they find the most challenging about the local culture in Portugal. They wrote...
"The bureaucracy is frustrating at times but eventually as your life chills out so does your reaction. You have to just roll with it sometimes and be patient. Leave lots of time for health, financial related issues," commented one expat who made the move to Tavira , Portugal.
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"Expats in Portugal may find it difficult to adjust to the slower pace of life as well as the more relaxed attitude towards timeliness and deadlines. Language can also present a challenge for expats, as Portuguese is the predominant language and English is not always widely spoken. Other cultural adaptation issues for expats can include understanding the subtleties of local customs and etiquette, such as taking the time to greet others prior to engaging in a conversation or conducting business. Portuguese culture is also very family-oriented, so expats may find it difficult to transition to the longer working hours and different expectations for childcare," remarked another expat in Portugal.
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Other Questions:
- What should I pack when moving to Portugal?
- Where should I setup a bank account in Portugal?
- Will I be able to find a job in Portugal?
- What is life like in Portugal?
- What do expats in Portugal appreciate most about the local culture?
- What do expats find most challenging?
- Is there a lot of crime in Portugal?
- Is there a lot of diversity? Are people in Portugal accepting of differences?
- What are the schools in Portugal like?
- What are healthcare services like in Portugal?
- What are medical services in Portugal like?
- Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Portugal?
- What are emergency services like in Portugal?
- Will I need to travel to see a specialist?
- Are common prescription medications available in Portugal?
- How are local medical facilities in Portugal?
- As a foreigner living in Portugal, will I have access to public healthcare? What is it like?
- What have your experiences during the pandemic with the local healthcare system been like?
What do expats find most challenging?
If you live in Portugal, newcomers to Portugal would love to hear your answer to this question.
About the Author
Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International
and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University
with a BA in International Business and German.
Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.