Home is not where you wish to escape to, but where you are willing to stop, invest in, build a life, participate in the community, and work to preserve the qualities that makes home wonderful. Home, is where you are willing to stay and put in the effort. Anything else is just a temporary vacation spot. The Portuguese are used to having foreigners in their midst for hundreds of years - from the Brits who built up the Port wine trade, to Genoans who came during the Age of exploration, to ex-colonial citizens who chose Portugal and stayed, to friends and family of Portuguese ex-pats who devided to move and live in Portugal permanently. NOBODY can escape the forces of change. The real question is, are you part of a positive change thats happening in Portugal, or are you part of a negative change? If you are going to live in Portugal, learn the language, pay your taxes, or at least, pay into the health system in some way. Shop in the mom and pop places, find any local clubs, societies and join them. The most important thing is when you move to Portugal, do not act like a forever tourist to be catered to. Get "your hands dirty" and pitch in.
while i strongly agree, it is no reason that locals take advantage of anyone. It is not being negative, it ruins the experience. Even if you are a temporary resident. I live in italy, now i speak the language(still broken), I even have family here now through my wife, but it wasnt like this always. And yes they can rip you off at a touristy spot somewhere in positano, or even in cinque terre or by the colosseum, but if you live in the local areas they never EVER did this to me. If coffee is 1eur then also 1Eur to me "the idiot blonde foreigner" who stands out with broken italian. I can buy margherita for 6eur and get the same meat anywhere even if they think i stay here temporary. I never felt they are trying to take advantage of me in any way, again except the really touristy spots where this happens anywhere in the world anyway.
@@DarthFurball if you really attempt, you won't fail, and most certainly not miserably. I'm learning Portuguese and it's my 4th language. It's not the easiest language but you definitely don't have to be a genius to learn it. All it takes is consistensy, just like learning anything else if you're not consistent you won't get anywhere. Revise 20 minutes a day and talk to as many Portuguese people as possible...before you get there. I am planning to move there in a year and have already been studying the language for a year and a half.
Great vlog. You're young Rafael. Go where you are happiest, treated well, and can have a better quality of life. You have this ability now. Life is short!!
If you're moving to one of these countries for renting or to take on a mortgage.. it's not for you. The only way it makes sense for a foreigner to come and live in Portugal or something is if they have money to buy something outright. Only then can you really enjoy the quality of life amenities that Portugal has to offer. Also don't move to cities expecting traditional culture and whatever to be intact. If you want that, you have to move to a village where hardly anyone speaks english, which I recommend as it's like going back in time 20 years.. and you will have to learn the language
One of the only reasons people are flocking to Portugal, is because the residency was one of the easiest in Western Europe. (But that will soon change- they can't handle, nor want, all these immigrants and migrants from Africa and North Africa also. But the country is poor and the infrastructure is bad. People wait forever for services, sometimes two months to get their utilities turned on. The bureacracy of the government makes the country very inefficient. If you import your car, even from Germany, you have to pay like 24 - 40% of the value of the car in tax just to get it registered. Many flats and homes are damp and have mold issues. Most of the people are wonderful, but they can barely afford their own country. Most American expats return to the US after 2-3 years. So, if you go, find a way to make it work, or don't come - it's too expensive to move across the world, to just turn around and go back home. I live in the EU, portugal used to be my first choice, but after I saw how ineffienct everything was- I went elsewhere. I'm in Prague- now that's a paradise.
Healthcare in Portugal is fast in private hospitals. Definetely not in public ones 🙄 So, get an Health Insurance, to access the private sector, which is quite good.
I agree, the cost of housing has gone up significantly. However, Portugal seems to have escaped the food inflation that the US experienced. We can still get a good meal for €15 - €20 each.....good luck even getting fast food for that in the US.
At my taco truck, a carne asada taco costs $2.60. I usually get 3. The chef cooks it right when u order it. I am a regular and when I go on vacay they always ask me where I’ve been. I’m in the US
@ Portuguese are welcoming but Italians are really mean to foreigners. I also think the healthcare is worse than in Portugal. I have a medical condition and often having to see doctors.
Here in California I am experiencing the same type of situation when it comes to health care. It can take months for me to see my main doctors or specialists, and several times I had them cancel on me last minute.
Great review. You don’t owe an explanation to anyone of these critics of why or how you feel the way you do. It’s ridiculous some of these comments. I’ve lived in the SF Bay Area for 20 years and I too am tired of the cost and taxes on my home. I am seeking a cheaper country because I can not because I’m not committed. I’ve been an excellent neighbor for all these years but it’s no loner working for me. I am free to go wherever I please and I suppose some could be envious because perhaps they are tied down. Well some of us are not. I only want to say thanks for a great review.
Tough beef in Rome too and it costs an arm and a leg, filet cuts cost even more, chickens are tough because they eat male chicks here, price of food keeps going up. Rafi, what is next for you? Where will you try next? Will you move again on your own and leave your family behind? What are your thoughts on this?
Rafi, I haven't heard you talk about Sardegna, in particular Cagliari, which I love. My wife's Italian (from Naples) and we've lived in Italy, so I well know the pros and cons, but I think the key to living in Europe is to establish a solid base there and then to use that base to investigate other countries.
What makes you a local is what you give to a place. I have strong connections with Portugal but live in Scotland and here I see what people of other nationalities have given to the place. Everyone simply mucks in together and what truly matters is what is happening in the here and now and how we support each other. These are challenging times everywhere and the question is are we willing to stand with our friends and neighbours in the communities where we have chosen to live and to rise above the petty niggles that I'm sorry to say I find in this video.
I would say comparisons across the world need to be current not from your past experiences. Locals are complaining about inflation, lack of service, lack of housing, etc in most places right now. Maybe visit your favorite place and talk to locals there. I bet it’s changed and not for the better.
It sounds to me like you’re looking to give yourself permission to leave. But, the wheel has turned yet again. The world is not what it was even 3 years ago. Fear, uncertainty and Doubt (FUD) are everywhere. As for the housing crisis, much of it had to do with greed. Large and small investors buying up properties and turning them into short term rentals. Most major cities and popular tourist destinations have suffered a lot from this. In Porto for example, there are nearly 7900 registered short term rentals; and that is only the studios and one bedroom units.
I can't say I'm looking for permission, after a number of international moves I can say it's not something that I seek, even from myself... If I don't feel a place is right for me and see that something else could be a better fit then it's an easy choice from there. But regarding the stat you mentioned, that's actually one that I hadn't seen. Quite fascinating that it's such a large number, I'd be curious as to how spread out they are throughout the area.
@ no worries. It just sounds like the “divorce” that we all go through when separating from what we’re currently doing. I didn’t mean to offend, hope that’s the case. As to short term rentals, it’s a problem worldwide. Many cities are trying to clamp down on it and pass laws to restrict/ limit how much housing can be short term. In Italy, for example, it is much easier to turn a property into a short term rental then it is to do a long term rental. Long term, requires lots of contracts and paperwork. Rentals less than 30 days don’t require this. But you probably know this far better than I do. I don’t know if it quite fits your channel(s) but it could make an interesting video.
Agree about the rental "investments" (vs those being bought by those actually emigrating to live here). You can see this clearly in the off / shoulder seasons where entire developments or blocks of flats sit empty. There's a reason AirBnb is now banned in major cities in the US.
@@RafaelDiFuria A simple Google search states: " Porto, Portugal has 10,450 registered short-term rentals, also known as local accommodation (AL) units. However, the number of AL properties listed has decreased sharply due to a number of factors, including: The government's Mais Habitação (More Housing) legislative package A new tax called the Extraordinary Contribution for Local Accommodation AL owners choosing to stop offering ALs The Mais Habitação package includes a new tax and requires AL registration holders to prove they are still active within two months. In 2024, new short-term rental regulations in Portugal will remove some restrictions, including the non-transferability of licenses and the ban on new licenses in coastal areas."
Spain, Spain is the country of choice, 8 years in Rome and I continue to hear how great Spain is, a great place to live, better than Italy, warm inviting people who actually help you settle in.
Us foreigners surely contributed to raising house prices - but the main fault lies with the government who time and time again, failed to impose proper measures to protect renters and ensure official filing of rental contracts and that the landlords keep their properties in good condition. We lived in a house full of mould, no hot water in the kitchen and 5 months in our ceiling fell down... the owner offered me 20 euros to clean it up. The politicians have also failed to impose measures to increase people's salaries, across the country. Some earn less than they did in 2008 (when accounting for inflation) and they have also failed to impose proper measures of consumer prices. The grocery stores in Portugal are making record profits, yet their employees have to live with their parents or grandparents, or with 20 other people in one apartment. There's been a massive effort on private hospitals, when Portugal used to have an excellent public healthcare system. Failing to address people's wages and working conditions there has led to massive issues in the healthcare sector. I too, have fallen in love with what Portugal once was. 12 years ago. Unfortunately, the government wants to make Portugal closer to the northern European countries. Now we have the same breakfast cafés and specialty coffee shops as we have in northern Europe. The cities all look the same. I wish Portugal would focus more on what it could be, without trying to copy its northern friends. Portugal is multicultural, it has African, Arabic, Indian and Brazilian influences, which make it such a special place. Portugal would have so much to offer, but not as a "startup hub" or "tech hub".
@@annacatarina4310 I agree. Portugal has such an amazing multi-cultural blend of citizens that needs to be emphasized. I just saw exactly what you are talking about. On November 9 average Portuguese workers exercised their democratic rights by peacefully marching through where I stayed in the Cedofeita neighborhood of Porto, “Em Luta”. I support their fight for a living wage, safer working conditions, and affordable housing for their youth. Good luck finding a T0 flat rental in the historic center for less than €1,000.00 per month. With an average wage of €10,000.00 per annum, these housing costs are way out of reach for most. I am told that there are specialized garment factory workers in Leiria that earn higher than minimum wage. But evidently it is still below what their French counterparts are earning up in northern Europe. It’s a cruel world!
I'm Portuguese and disagree completely, it wasn't US immigrants who contributed to the increase in house prices, they are a very small minority or feoreigners in Portugal, the huge increase of people from brazil, african and asian countries has had a much bigger impact, and Portugal is not "multicultural", that is some stupid socialist cliche to make it seem as if the Portuguese need to accept the disappearance of their culture.
@@periscope7731 Yeah, it's a huge problem. I'm happy to hear that you support the fight for better wages :) In Switzerland there are regulations as to when and by how much you are allowed to raise the rent per year and you always have to declare how much it was for the previous tenant, I think we should incorporate something like this in Portugal too, besides raising the wages. @TheMountainBeyondTheWoods I appreciate your difference in opinion and I am sorry to hear that you feel Portuguese culture is disappearing. I didn't mean American immigrants in specific, I meant northern Europeans, Americans, and anyone else who comes to Portugal to live, but stays on their foreign salary (on 5-6 K s month), is not legally registered in Portugal and thus doesn't pay taxes. I know several people who do that and I don't think this is fair to the Portuguese people. When I say, Portugal is multicultural, I mean it because Portugal colonized Brazil, Angola, Mozambique, Cabo Verde, Guinea, Goa, Timor Leste, etc. and Africans have been in Portugal even before colonization, which can be found in historical books. Portugal has always had strong relationships with the UK (oldest alliance in the world) and France, which I also count as different cultures. I think all of this rather contributes to the country than takes away from it, needless to say immigrants are the ones doing the jobs the Portuguese don't want to do (construction, fishing, farming aka farm-hands, cleaning, etc.) and if they all stopped working tomorrow, the country would stop working too. Here on the country-side, Portuguese culture is still going very strong. What is it that you feel is disappearing from Portuguese culture?
@@annacatarina4310 The more one travels, the more one hopefully attains the ultimate souvenir: Empathy! I am not surprised to discover that there are well-heeled people living in Portugal trying to subvert the tax system. Alas, I have lost sympathy for HNWI collectors of highly coveted wishlist accessory items that cost €10,000 which is the annual salary of working class Portuguese citizens. Instead of being grateful for what they already have, they complain bitterly about having to wait another two years for their second status wrist watch or handbag. Absolutely tone deaf!
This episode was an interesting variation to your normal RUclips offerings. It was very short, and it had a surprise ending in that it just faded to black. Not your standard ending with recognition of supporters or signing off. I'm guessing that maybe you were pressed for time to meet your weekly deadline. Regardless, I still enjoy hearing your perspective on living here in Portugal and Braga specifically.
This is the first of your videos i have watched but I agree. For some reason, Portugal is very immature and it's difficult to assimilate without feeling like you are regressing.
29 дней назад+1
like all the things that are in fashion mode the prices rise so...............
I had to wait for 8 months to see a dermatoligist and gynecologist at New York Hospital Langon at Trinity Place in lower Manhattan. Follow up is better if there is a need for it. The worse part is i got sick for my dermologist initial consult and now have to wait another 8 months.
No exactly it’s to expensive now. I live in the Algarve Hoping to move to Sicily better food and cheaper properties. Yes 👍. Certain companies rip you off. I am owed 900 euros from an electric company refusing to pay or take it off future bills. Same happens with phone network providers.
It´s funny how many foreigners come to Portugal and want to have the whole pack: cheap cost of living, cheap housing, irreprehensible national health care system, good weather, amazing people, breathtaking views, history and culture , good beaches, security and relaxation (did I forget something?). You won´t find all of that anywhere. Every country as its downsides and you have to make choices and establish priorities. I've been to the USA and I found that country an absurd: the lifestyle, some people, infrastucture. I had never been to such a boring country. Going to the mall seems to be the only way to entertain yourself and you have to drive for miles. As for Italy, traffic is crazy in major cities as well as pollution and insecurity. Italian bureaucracy is insane and the same applies to Spain. And if you want something fixed in Spain most likely you will get the answer "mañana". You will have some trouble finding paradise, but never give up. I wish you good luck. PS - The "boina" doesn't become you.
Globally, challenges like the high cost of living, being taken advantage of, and blaming foreigners are quite spread. Efficiency is not a characteristic you'll find in Portuguese systems and institutions, but you could ask any local and we would tell you that. I hope you find a place that meet your expectations and the issues regarding family members are sorted out. Portugal for now is an oasis in some aspects of life and a nightmare in others. I am afraid like the rest of the world
Portugal shot itself in the foot w/ the golden visa program and investment into real estate for residency @ 500k. i know they got rid of it, but the damage is done.
@@MPovinho yea when 1% of the market comes in and buys up whole blocks of lisbon, its an issue - so much so the Portuguese govt has to make short term rentals fixed prices lol
Portugal is beautiful but if I’m learning a language, it won’t be Portuguese. France is my choice. Yes, taxes are high but so is the quality of life. Their healthcare system is top notch and inexpensive. Housing is reasonable and the food and wine are amazing. France is beautiful. The middle class is still strong. Have to see what happens with the upcoming election. Fascism is a hard pass.
Umm, the US/French tax treaty prevents double taxation. I’m still looking into their wealth tax. Re: the healthcare, there might be a bit u would have to pay depending on your annual income, it’s not much compared to the US. If u buy a place, u need to title it in the name of a company that u form and name the owners as shareholders ( this is to avoid inheritance tax for ur heirs).
@ yes, you’re right and social security won’t be taxed. I don’t mind taxes too much if they make life better for all and from what I see, French taxes do. As to the wealth tax - I think it isn’t a bad thing if it keeps the world’s greediest billionaires away. Let them ruin other countries and destroy middle classes elsewhere. That tax protects the French lifestyle.
Your feeling represents a movement across Europe, in every country. when life becomes a bit more difficult in terms of cost of living, people are looking for someone to blame. When expats and immigrants are on the news a lot, people end up blaming them. Does't matter if it's right or not. If you really want to live in a country, make the effort to help the people who live there for a long time and blend in, learn the language and if you really try, people will see it and respect your effort.
I think it could be fair to say it's not just seen in Europe, but in humanity as a whole. It's easy to blame the outsider, the other, the person not a full fledged member of the community. I do agree with you that it's important to make an effort, however, the issue is that the person from abroad (in many places) will always be treated as an outsider, at least to some extent.
Given that crime and violence really have increased due to the out of control floods of people coming in from less reputable places, and the housing market really is horrible due to an increase in demand, and that an increase in the numbers of people willing to do anything keeps down pressure on wages, maybe there is something to it and people all over Europe are not that wrong. You guys can talk all you wan about humanity, and blah blah blah, but Western countries can't just take the whole world in just because leftists think they should, the system simply won't be able to function and people will resent who they perceive as part of the problem.
I agree...Portugal might not be the right option for YOU!! It is for us...Coming from France, it is affordable and with a fixed home mortgage it provides security and affordability!! We love it, but should Americans move here...Not sure that's a good idea!! Don't come here with your expectations...It's different, that's sure, but if you navigate properly it can be a beautiful place to call home!
Hello there. Frankly speaking I question this guy’s motivations. I just came back from visiting Porto and Braga. Cedofeita, the trendy neighborhood of Porto, is undergoing major gentrification and has new T1 listings starting at €260,000.00. The flat might be on the smaller side of what you are used to seeing in a one bedroom, but it could be a great fit for a single occupant wanting an urban vibe and quality of life.
And if you are a surfer and want to experience laidback oceanfront living with a mere 10 minute car ride to Porto airport, there is the city of Matosinhos which is a 10 minute metro ride from Porto’s historic center.
@@periscope7731 I wish it were only 10 minutes...still, 20-25 minutes from Trindade isn't bad at all. Housing prices in Matosinhos, however, aren't the cheapest.
@ Yes, I noticed that. My journey on the blue metro A line from the Heroisma stop took 40 minutes. I see that flats on Idealista for Matosinhos start at €900.00 per month for T1 unfurnished. Probably not oceanfront. Quite the posh scene there with bougie salons, laser clinics and yoga studios. I am planning to relocate to Porto area Spring 2025. I have been advised by experts that Cedofeita, Paranhos, and Vila Nova de Gaia are more tranquil and cost effective options away from the bustling historic center. Is that right? Obrigado.🙌
Former colonial empires in Europe always face a potential return of descendents of emigrants if the political or socio-economic situation deteriorates abroad. Portugal is quite a tiny country compared to Brazil, where lots of people can claim the Portuguese nationality by descendence... or any other EU nationality allowing them to move to Portugal. After all Portuguese is the language they speak, though Brazilian Portuguese sounds differently. Therefore Brazilians are immediately recognized as such. Brazil has a high crime rate. Brazilians moving to Portugal aren't necessarily angels either. Legal migration from Brazil (much less from Angola and other Portuguese former colonies) drives up the housing demand and therfore also the property prices at a rate not seen in any other EU member state. The impact of English speaking expats is secondary and it is fading, after Portugal has abandoned their favourite taxation scheme for new immigrants.
You're not wrong but it goes beyond that. Those Brazilians, angolans, and others from former colonies are, with some exceptions, mostly not descendants from portuguese, they don't think of themselves as Portuguese or care thatmuch about Portugal, they just care about getting away from their countries and live in Europe. Then you add the third-world migrants from Asian countries, like India, Bangladesh, Pakistan, and some others, who have nothing to do with Portugal, and yet have moved in high numbers to the country and you have a disaster because all these countries have gigantic populations while Portugal is tiny. I agree it's not westerners moving to Portugal who are the problem. Americans, British, and other westerners are for the most part, relatively respectful, peaceful, and culturally similar enough, the others I mentioned not as much, so the problem is not immigration or immigrants, but the type and quantity of immigration and immigrants, because it's not all the same.
Do u not cook for your self hun eating out not good for anyone these day's most things are just put in microwaves and heated up even in uk better to cook from home yourself lol
When you started talking about food, comparing it negatively with other European countries, that's where I stopped the video. Anyone who travels across Europe and finds countries where the food is terrible, such as the UK, Spain, etc., compared to the variety and quality of Portuguese food, knows how distorted the perspective you're presenting in this video is.
Many may not agree with me, but Americans romanticize Europe too much. Also, when one stays in a country where they don't speak the language- as they begin to understand the language, people don't seem so friendly. Foreigners with a lot of money are part of the problem. Portugal has a very low minimum wage, which is no secret to most of us- many Portuguese can not afford the rising cost of living. As I have said many times on this platform, I never liked Portugal to live. I found the people a bit fake, if you ask me. Many try to come across as being friendly and nice, because they want you to say that they are friendly and nice. Unfortunately, I had some really negative experiences in Portugal. I was robbed, so when people say it is a low crime country- I can't relate. I also found the Portuguese incompetent. There is no way to sugarcoat it. Some people might say their laid-back. I say that some are lazy and simply don't care. Boa sorte!
Problem with Americans is they lack the cultural understanding and nuances. They assume they're the normal ones and can't imagine some things are made differently. They also assume English can be used anywhere at any time. When they romanticize Europe it's usually a handful of countries like France and Italy.
Americans romanticize Europe because their liberals try to sell a "perfect socialist paradise" just waiting for you if you just (*insert fave bs here, like Sweden is so safe and developed >let me have a laugh; Italy is so high-end and aesthetic? Etc etc etc). Also, people are complete phonies in Portugal. If you hear their opinions on foreigners while traveling or having the upper hand on you, you'll see it. Most times, they put their good boy's mask so they can probe any future benefit from you. Repugnant! And their constant need yo be well-regarded and "everybody's friend"> except the day you actually need them, that's the day their phone broke.
I think your fail to delineate between legal and illegal immigration when it comes the sentiment towards foreigners. You don't have to look that far. Lisbon, to a slightly smaller degree Porto, in the south, recent issues in Setubal, and even in Braga where you live, the level of insecurity has risen. Once you get that in the large urban centers it is just a matter of time before that starts to spread to smaller places. The Portugal that people love and universally claim is so safe has a reason why it was like that. Portugal was ranked 3rd and has now dropped to 7th. Food for thought.
I don't think there's any reason to differentiate, simply because there's not way to know from simple interactions if a person is legally or illegally in a country. I think people just see the word "foreigner" almost written across your forehead regardless of your legal status.
@@RafaelDiFuriaand another thing, before the new gov ended "declaration of intent" there really was no reason to be ilegal, but from now on that will happen more. The sad thing is that a good number of portuguese import their fears and political knowledge from america and cant even realise how their country works and has worked for a long time. We live in an unprecedented time of ignorance and ignorant people thinking they are smart.
Same thing going on everywhere. Blame the immigrants. In reality they should be blaming their government for allowing corporations to buy government and now they are doing as they please including raising prices and not giving their employees raises to deal with the inflation.
I think though it depends on which cities you’re talking about and which areas outside of the cities. Some areas just outside of major centers can be a bit sketchy anywhere in the world. It just depends.
That is not entirely true. I just came back from two weeks visiting Porto and one week in Braga. The Porto metro system is rat free, clean, and free of litter as are the streets.
It depends on your tax situation. If you're an Italian resident, you'll be taxed on worldwide income. I think he said something about that in his "don't move to Italy" video. (Am not an expert, so someone correct me if I'm wrong)
@loumac9312 It's tough to say, better is relative depending on the person... for some Portugal may be the right choice while for others Italy may be the better choice.
I would add that you cannot generalize with Italy. For instance, Sicily and Milano are like two entirely different worlds .... culture, economy, climate, so different. It really depends on WHERE in Italy. If I had to choose a spot I would pick a place like Western Liguria (Mediterranean climate and culture but Western European cleanliness, safety, fairly good economy).
Portugal in the last 20 years has been invaded by foreigners. Surely people will react. Portugal is among the smallest countries in Europe so there is a limit.
It's an interesting point because I've heard some people argue that Portugal "invaded" so many other places... humanity is always on the move. Who is moving where and how can always grab someone's attention when they see other changes to their life, regardless of whether the changes to local life are connected or not to the new arrivals... however, I would say it's fair to say that there have been many changes do to the population of foreign in the country.
@RafaelDiFuria A somewhat flawed comparison on your part. Portuguese moving to the UK, Germany, USA or Canada can't be compared since those countries are way larger and richer. It's like saying moving to France or Morocco is the same thing.
@@borisnegrarosa9113 I was referring to Brazil, Angola, Mozambique, Cape Verde, India, Guinea-Bissau, and others from the last hundreds of years… or even Japan for example where the Portuguese presence (as well as Spanish) and introduction of Catholicism are argueably the reason why Japan closed itself of to foreigners for about 200 years if I remember correctly with the Sakoku policy
@@RafaelDiFuria Well I'm talking about the current era. Your thinking is just limited. How far back should we go? Should we bring up Genghis Khan perhaps?
my thinking is limited? yet @borisnegrarosa9113 you’re being quite selective about the time periods being discussed.. and on top Ghengis Khan likely had no interactions with the Portuguese 😜 😆
I think I experienced a little bit of the price gauging in my local town. I went to a cafe I had never been before, it was after lunch and no one was there. I had a burger and fries and a 6 oz beer for €9.80. Seemed kinda pricey because you can get a full lunch, beef, rice, veggie and salad for €4.50 at the SuperMercado. Hhmmm.
Hmm to me that actually sounds like a fair price, depending on the quality of the burger. Supermarket lunches often from what I've seen can be quite a bit less, there's definately a markup in many restaurants and cafes... but I know I've paid more for just a burger and fries alone than €9,80. If it was just a frozen party from the freezer section of your supermarket then maybe it would be a bad deal... but in a supermarket, they can definitely be a lot less.
@ Rafael, Thanks for your response. Well, just around the corner from that place is a Kabob restaurant, full service, that sells a great burger for €5, they were closed at that time. My town, in Braga district, has a population of 50k. Everything here is cheaper than Braga. But I will take it under advisement. 👍
I watch various Twitter channels. Portugal is having some challenging illegal immigration problems. Those are enough reasons to think twice about coming there.
Rent is expensive because there are not enough houses, and everyone wants to come here. And to the big cities. Go live 30min outside of braga. You’ll have a good time. It’s not big like Italy. That’s why it’s not affordable. In general Europe doesn’t have good meat, bar Ireland. you want good meat go to the US and even Africa. We are not red meat producers. But damn our pork is great. Where are you going next? Spain?😂 Amanhã é outro dia 😂 passo a passo. We like hurdles.
It depends on your lifestyle. If you have lots of disposable income, love to shop and meet your friends for spa and lunch dates, then you will love the tranquility and poshness of Braga. If you are more into buzzy urban living, culture and contemporary art, then Porto might be a better fit.
I think things haven’t changed for worst actually it’s a bit better.its you that have changed and that’s ok. If you go to Lisbon or Porto the international cuisine is done by country locals are really good. Don’t expect a population of 20.000 to have top international food. It’s time you to go .
Месяц назад
be more portuguese, be pragmatic. if you wanna stay you are welcomed, and helped by the people; or don't and leave. portugal is not open for an outsiders cheap criticism but accepts constructive criticism, like presenting solutions and showing how it could done better. be warned that to apply good ideas to the practicality of day-to-day life it takes work, time to see it's effects and even then success is not guaranteed! one has got to be half-crazy and have more balls than tongue! and, face it, you don't seem like one needing medical care. let's put you under medication instead! one small glass of port in the morning before breakfast to fortify the stomach, one vodka martini before lunch for general fortification of the body, one bottle of white wine during lunch, 2 bottles of green red wine during dinner, after dessert any old aguardente to numb the mind. with all that fortification who needs a mind, right? repeat treatment for a month, no stops. you'll be alright in no time.
Portugal is a country that I love , I was born there , Lisbon is where I was born. All of this out of control prices of food , rents and so on is the same everywhere in the Western World , although as a Portuguese woman, what I fear the most for Portugal is the fact Portugal is being taken over as in Conquered by the Islam Cult. God help the Portuguese , eg. the UK and Iran.
Exactly what are you referring to? According to Wikipedia, only about 0.42% or less than one half of one percent of the population of Portugal is Muslim, and I would imagine that not all of that population is super religious. Could you explain?
@@lacha608because most of that imigration started 4years ago more than 1 million in 11 million country and they are everywhere even in country side. Visit lisbon today and see for yourself and its only mens
I live in Portugal, there is no Islam cult, let’s be open, there are alot of people from India that have come here illegally, infact the government cracked down on a company that was bringing loads of people in ships. Side note- Indians are mostly hindus, etc, there is a little percentage that follows Islam…
The problem with this guy is that he doesn’t know what he wants in life. Look at him. What ? Late thirties . No family , nothing . And he’s giving YOU advise on where you want to live? Went to Italy , moved to Portugal doesn’t like it anymore …well go back to the US then …or try Brazil.
I know plenty of guys with families and still don't know what they want from life. Constantly complaining about being wage slaves and getting little respect from their wives. In comparison this guy is doing pretty well.
@ShakeyAguarete it's funny you speak like you know me because you couldn't be further from reality. Firstly, I'm much younger than you think I am 🤣 Next I'm not giving advise on where to live, only sharing my perspectives and views on things. I always say where is right for one person may not be right for another. This video in short was just saying that I don't see Portugal as the place for me and a few of the many reasons why. I still love Portugal but it's changed from what I once knew when I first set foot in the country, even years before moving there. I know exactly what I'm wanting from life and that's why I've come to realize that some of what is found in Portugal doesn't align with what would fit into what I'm wanting from life. It's funny how you mention that family as some sort of benchmark for knowing what you want from life. I might argue that some get stuck in that who never knew what they wanted and still don't know nor care. Having a family is not the end all be all... also if you've ever noticed I rarely talk about my relationship status ;)
He’s not giving advice, he is only sharing experiences, and being honest as alot of people have presented Portugal as nearly a paradise. Also, why watch him if you don’t like his comments 😅
i have not been to Portugal in years. It then was so beautiful. Yet, in comparison to Italy or France it left my list. Currently live in Mexico and because of certain political issues that again have become up front.....It is time to look again. Please, France or Italy and why? My Spanish is 3rd level. Spanish taxes are not an option. What do you suggest? Have watched so many of your video"s, Am very concerned. Be well Rafael. And you just mentioned....I am retired. Abrazos.
I don’t think I’d ever consider living in France. But that’s just me personally. There are many people who seem to like it. But I don’t see it being for me. So between Italy and France, for what I look for out of life there’s only one choice… but which is right for you is unfortunately impossible for me to say. Spain though is a place I’d thought about in the past. I haven’t looked into it too deeply but I’ve been hearing about changes regarding the Spanish taxation system that could make it more interesting. Not sure when you last looked but if it was more than a year or two ago I might double check that. Wishing you all the best in your next move!
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Home is not where you wish to escape to, but where you are willing to stop, invest in, build a life, participate in the community, and work to preserve the qualities that makes home wonderful. Home, is where you are willing to stay and put in the effort. Anything else is just a temporary vacation spot. The Portuguese are used to having foreigners in their midst for hundreds of years - from the Brits who built up the Port wine trade, to Genoans who came during the Age of exploration, to ex-colonial citizens who chose Portugal and stayed, to friends and family of Portuguese ex-pats who devided to move and live in Portugal permanently. NOBODY can escape the forces of change. The real question is, are you part of a positive change thats happening in Portugal, or are you part of a negative change? If you are going to live in Portugal, learn the language, pay your taxes, or at least, pay into the health system in some way. Shop in the mom and pop places, find any local clubs, societies and join them. The most important thing is when you move to Portugal, do not act like a forever tourist to be catered to. Get "your hands dirty" and pitch in.
The language is a big one. Even if you try (and fail miserably), your attempt will still be appreciated.
while i strongly agree, it is no reason that locals take advantage of anyone. It is not being negative, it ruins the experience. Even if you are a temporary resident. I live in italy, now i speak the language(still broken), I even have family here now through my wife, but it wasnt like this always.
And yes they can rip you off at a touristy spot somewhere in positano, or even in cinque terre or by the colosseum, but if you live in the local areas they never EVER did this to me. If coffee is 1eur then also 1Eur to me "the idiot blonde foreigner" who stands out with broken italian. I can buy margherita for 6eur and get the same meat anywhere even if they think i stay here temporary. I never felt they are trying to take advantage of me in any way, again except the really touristy spots where this happens anywhere in the world anyway.
@@DarthFurball if you really attempt, you won't fail, and most certainly not miserably. I'm learning Portuguese and it's my 4th language. It's not the easiest language but you definitely don't have to be a genius to learn it. All it takes is consistensy, just like learning anything else if you're not consistent you won't get anywhere. Revise 20 minutes a day and talk to as many Portuguese people as possible...before you get there. I am planning to move there in a year and have already been studying the language for a year and a half.
"do not act like a forever tourist to be catered to. " - LOVED it :D
Great vlog. You're young Rafael. Go where you are happiest, treated well, and can have a better quality of life. You have this ability now. Life is short!!
If you're moving to one of these countries for renting or to take on a mortgage.. it's not for you. The only way it makes sense for a foreigner to come and live in Portugal or something is if they have money to buy something outright. Only then can you really enjoy the quality of life amenities that Portugal has to offer. Also don't move to cities expecting traditional culture and whatever to be intact. If you want that, you have to move to a village where hardly anyone speaks english, which I recommend as it's like going back in time 20 years.. and you will have to learn the language
Kudos for your honest blog
One of the only reasons people are flocking to Portugal, is because the residency was one of the easiest in Western Europe. (But that will soon change- they can't handle, nor want, all these immigrants and migrants from Africa and North Africa also. But the country is poor and the infrastructure is bad. People wait forever for services, sometimes two months to get their utilities turned on. The bureacracy of the government makes the country very inefficient. If you import your car, even from Germany, you have to pay like 24 - 40% of the value of the car in tax just to get it registered. Many flats and homes are damp and have mold issues. Most of the people are wonderful, but they can barely afford their own country. Most American expats return to the US after 2-3 years. So, if you go, find a way to make it work, or don't come - it's too expensive to move across the world, to just turn around and go back home. I live in the EU, portugal used to be my first choice, but after I saw how ineffienct everything was- I went elsewhere. I'm in Prague- now that's a paradise.
Healthcare in Portugal is fast in private hospitals. Definetely not in public ones 🙄 So, get an Health Insurance, to access the private sector, which is quite good.
I agree, the cost of housing has gone up significantly. However, Portugal seems to have escaped the food inflation that the US experienced. We can still get a good meal for €15 - €20 each.....good luck even getting fast food for that in the US.
At my taco truck, a carne asada taco costs $2.60. I usually get 3. The chef cooks it right when u order it. I am a regular and when I go on vacay they always ask me where I’ve been. I’m in the US
Love Portugal but hated Italy. Worked our well for us in retirement
Why did you hate Italy?
@ Portuguese are welcoming but Italians are really mean to foreigners. I also think the healthcare is worse than in Portugal. I have a medical condition and often having to see doctors.
@@macaccount4315oh my
@@macaccount4315I’ve lived in Italy for the past 8 years and I I’ve found Italians fairly good and decent.
@ my husband is Italian. But we found a better life in Portugal
We’ve been on this ride with you before, twice in Italy and now here.
Here in California I am experiencing the same type of situation when it comes to health care. It can take months for me to see my main doctors or specialists, and several times I had them cancel on me last minute.
Great review. You don’t owe an explanation to anyone of these critics of why or how you feel the way you do. It’s ridiculous some of these comments. I’ve lived in the SF Bay Area for 20 years and I too am tired of the cost and taxes on my home. I am seeking a cheaper country because I can not because I’m not committed. I’ve been an excellent neighbor for all these years but it’s no loner working for me. I am free to go wherever I please and I suppose some could be envious because perhaps they are tied down. Well some of us are not. I only want to say thanks for a great review.
Tough beef in Rome too and it costs an arm and a leg, filet cuts cost even more, chickens are tough because they eat male chicks here, price of food keeps going up. Rafi, what is next for you? Where will you try next? Will you move again on your own and leave your family behind? What are your thoughts on this?
Rafi, I haven't heard you talk about Sardegna, in particular Cagliari, which I love. My wife's Italian (from Naples) and we've lived in Italy, so I well know the pros and cons, but I think the key to living in Europe is to establish a solid base there and then to use that base to investigate other countries.
What makes you a local is what you give to a place. I have strong connections with Portugal but live in Scotland and here I see what people of other nationalities have given to the place. Everyone simply mucks in together and what truly matters is what is happening in the here and now and how we support each other. These are challenging times everywhere and the question is are we willing to stand with our friends and neighbours in the communities where we have chosen to live and to rise above the petty niggles that I'm sorry to say I find in this video.
Okay, but many countries are experiencing all of these same issues and particularly the cost of living.
Well said . The world is in crisis😊
@@tuka24a Thanks to greedy billionaires. ;-)
I would say comparisons across the world need to be current not from your past experiences. Locals are complaining about inflation, lack of service, lack of housing, etc in most places right now. Maybe visit your favorite place and talk to locals there. I bet it’s changed and not for the better.
It sounds to me like you’re looking to give yourself permission to leave. But, the wheel has turned yet again. The world is not what it was even 3 years ago. Fear, uncertainty and Doubt (FUD) are everywhere.
As for the housing crisis, much of it had to do with greed. Large and small investors buying up properties and turning them into short term rentals. Most major cities and popular tourist destinations have suffered a lot from this. In Porto for example, there are nearly 7900 registered short term rentals; and that is only the studios and one bedroom units.
I can't say I'm looking for permission, after a number of international moves I can say it's not something that I seek, even from myself... If I don't feel a place is right for me and see that something else could be a better fit then it's an easy choice from there.
But regarding the stat you mentioned, that's actually one that I hadn't seen. Quite fascinating that it's such a large number, I'd be curious as to how spread out they are throughout the area.
@ no worries. It just sounds like the “divorce” that we all go through when separating from what we’re currently doing. I didn’t mean to offend, hope that’s the case. As to short term rentals, it’s a problem worldwide. Many cities are trying to clamp down on it and pass laws to restrict/ limit how much housing can be short term. In Italy, for example, it is much easier to turn a property into a short term rental then it is to do a long term rental. Long term, requires lots of contracts and paperwork. Rentals less than 30 days don’t require this. But you probably know this far better than I do. I don’t know if it quite fits your channel(s) but it could make an interesting video.
Agree about the rental "investments" (vs those being bought by those actually emigrating to live here). You can see this clearly in the off / shoulder seasons where entire developments or blocks of flats sit empty. There's a reason AirBnb is now banned in major cities in the US.
@@RafaelDiFuria A simple Google search states: "
Porto, Portugal has 10,450 registered short-term rentals, also known as local accommodation (AL) units. However, the number of AL properties listed has decreased sharply due to a number of factors, including:
The government's Mais Habitação (More Housing) legislative package
A new tax called the Extraordinary Contribution for Local Accommodation
AL owners choosing to stop offering ALs
The Mais Habitação package includes a new tax and requires AL registration holders to prove they are still active within two months.
In 2024, new short-term rental regulations in Portugal will remove some restrictions, including the non-transferability of licenses and the ban on new licenses in coastal areas."
@@RafaelDiFuria And this is still not even .00000001 percent of the dwellings in Porto.
This counts for allmost every country in europe. It is not just Portugal.
Spain, Spain is the country of choice, 8 years in Rome and I continue to hear how great Spain is, a great place to live, better than Italy, warm inviting people who actually help you settle in.
Nothing is perfect i love my coutry if you dont ... I have lived in thwo other countris and i came back because Portugal is a very good place to live.
Us foreigners surely contributed to raising house prices - but the main fault lies with the government who time and time again, failed to impose proper measures to protect renters and ensure official filing of rental contracts and that the landlords keep their properties in good condition. We lived in a house full of mould, no hot water in the kitchen and 5 months in our ceiling fell down... the owner offered me 20 euros to clean it up.
The politicians have also failed to impose measures to increase people's salaries, across the country. Some earn less than they did in 2008 (when accounting for inflation) and they have also failed to impose proper measures of consumer prices. The grocery stores in Portugal are making record profits, yet their employees have to live with their parents or grandparents, or with 20 other people in one apartment.
There's been a massive effort on private hospitals, when Portugal used to have an excellent public healthcare system. Failing to address people's wages and working conditions there has led to massive issues in the healthcare sector.
I too, have fallen in love with what Portugal once was. 12 years ago. Unfortunately, the government wants to make Portugal closer to the northern European countries. Now we have the same breakfast cafés and specialty coffee shops as we have in northern Europe. The cities all look the same. I wish Portugal would focus more on what it could be, without trying to copy its northern friends.
Portugal is multicultural, it has African, Arabic, Indian and Brazilian influences, which make it such a special place. Portugal would have so much to offer, but not as a "startup hub" or "tech hub".
@@annacatarina4310 I agree. Portugal has such an amazing multi-cultural blend of citizens that needs to be emphasized. I just saw exactly what you are talking about. On November 9 average Portuguese workers exercised their democratic rights by peacefully marching through where I stayed in the Cedofeita neighborhood of Porto, “Em Luta”. I support their fight for a living wage, safer working conditions, and affordable housing for their youth. Good luck finding a T0 flat rental in the historic center for less than €1,000.00 per month. With an average wage of €10,000.00 per annum, these housing costs are way out of reach for most. I am told that there are specialized garment factory workers in Leiria that earn higher than minimum wage. But evidently it is still below what their French counterparts are earning up in northern Europe. It’s a cruel world!
Sounds a lot like California
I'm Portuguese and disagree completely, it wasn't US immigrants who contributed to the increase in house prices, they are a very small minority or feoreigners in Portugal, the huge increase of people from brazil, african and asian countries has had a much bigger impact, and Portugal is not "multicultural", that is some stupid socialist cliche to make it seem as if the Portuguese need to accept the disappearance of their culture.
@@periscope7731 Yeah, it's a huge problem. I'm happy to hear that you support the fight for better wages :) In Switzerland there are regulations as to when and by how much you are allowed to raise the rent per year and you always have to declare how much it was for the previous tenant, I think we should incorporate something like this in Portugal too, besides raising the wages.
@TheMountainBeyondTheWoods I appreciate your difference in opinion and I am sorry to hear that you feel Portuguese culture is disappearing. I didn't mean American immigrants in specific, I meant northern Europeans, Americans, and anyone else who comes to Portugal to live, but stays on their foreign salary (on 5-6 K s month), is not legally registered in Portugal and thus doesn't pay taxes. I know several people who do that and I don't think this is fair to the Portuguese people.
When I say, Portugal is multicultural, I mean it because Portugal colonized Brazil, Angola, Mozambique, Cabo Verde, Guinea, Goa, Timor Leste, etc. and Africans have been in Portugal even before colonization, which can be found in historical books. Portugal has always had strong relationships with the UK (oldest alliance in the world) and France, which I also count as different cultures. I think all of this rather contributes to the country than takes away from it, needless to say immigrants are the ones doing the jobs the Portuguese don't want to do (construction, fishing, farming aka farm-hands, cleaning, etc.) and if they all stopped working tomorrow, the country would stop working too.
Here on the country-side, Portuguese culture is still going very strong. What is it that you feel is disappearing from Portuguese culture?
@@annacatarina4310 The more one travels, the more one hopefully attains the ultimate souvenir: Empathy! I am not surprised to discover that there are well-heeled people living in Portugal trying to subvert the tax system. Alas, I have lost sympathy for HNWI collectors of highly coveted wishlist accessory items that cost €10,000 which is the annual salary of working class Portuguese citizens. Instead of being grateful for what they already have, they complain bitterly about having to wait another two years for their second status wrist watch or handbag. Absolutely tone deaf!
Portugal is very different in different cities......
Don't move to Italy and now don't move to Portugal? Where will you be moving to next?
He will move to China or Rússia 😅
I guess there should be a market for fixers that engage with the local service sector and arrange for "discounts". For a monthly retainer of course.
You're in Braga? Nice. I live like 20 mins from you. I love Geres :)
and Italy hasn't?
This episode was an interesting variation to your normal RUclips offerings. It was very short, and it had a surprise ending in that it just faded to black. Not your standard ending with recognition of supporters or signing off. I'm guessing that maybe you were pressed for time to meet your weekly deadline. Regardless, I still enjoy hearing your perspective on living here in Portugal and Braga specifically.
Does this herald a possible move?
This is the first of your videos i have watched but I agree.
For some reason, Portugal is very immature and it's difficult to assimilate without feeling like you are regressing.
like all the things that are in fashion mode the prices rise so...............
France 🇫🇷 is great when you compare it
I had to wait for 8 months to see a dermatoligist and gynecologist at New York Hospital Langon at Trinity Place in lower Manhattan. Follow up is better if there is a need for it. The worse part is i got sick for my dermologist initial consult and now have to wait another 8 months.
No exactly it’s to expensive now. I live in the Algarve Hoping to move to Sicily better food and cheaper properties. Yes 👍. Certain companies rip you off. I am owed 900 euros from an electric company refusing to pay or take it off future bills. Same happens with phone network providers.
It´s funny how many foreigners come to Portugal and want to have the whole pack: cheap cost of living, cheap housing, irreprehensible national health care system, good weather, amazing people, breathtaking views, history and culture , good beaches, security and relaxation (did I forget something?). You won´t find all of that anywhere. Every country as its downsides and you have to make choices and establish priorities. I've been to the USA and I found that country an absurd: the lifestyle, some people, infrastucture. I had never been to such a boring country. Going to the mall seems to be the only way to entertain yourself and you have to drive for miles. As for Italy, traffic is crazy in major cities as well as pollution and insecurity. Italian bureaucracy is insane and the same applies to Spain. And if you want something fixed in Spain most likely you will get the answer "mañana".
You will have some trouble finding paradise, but never give up. I wish you good luck.
PS - The "boina" doesn't become you.
Globally, challenges like the high cost of living, being taken advantage of, and blaming foreigners are quite spread. Efficiency is not a characteristic you'll find in Portuguese systems and institutions, but you could ask any local and we would tell you that. I hope you find a place that meet your expectations and the issues regarding family members are sorted out. Portugal for now is an oasis in some aspects of life and a nightmare in others. I am afraid like the rest of the world
Portugal is a paradise man. For what i be seen lately in the world? This little rectangle is a dam paradise.
It didn't change a little bit, it changed a big lot. Yes, it's about time to go somewhere else.
Portugal shot itself in the foot w/ the golden visa program and investment into real estate for residency @ 500k. i know they got rid of it, but the damage is done.
That represent 1% of the market socialist narrative others fault always
@@MPovinho yea when 1% of the market comes in and buys up whole blocks of lisbon, its an issue - so much so the Portuguese govt has to make short term rentals fixed prices lol
Youre part of the same problem that youre complaining about
Prices were fine....until portugal made it easy for foreign folks to live there.
Portugal is beautiful but if I’m learning a language, it won’t be Portuguese. France is my choice. Yes, taxes are high but so is the quality of life. Their healthcare system is top notch and inexpensive. Housing is reasonable and the food and wine are amazing. France is beautiful. The middle class is still strong. Have to see what happens with the upcoming election. Fascism is a hard pass.
Umm, the US/French tax treaty prevents double taxation.
I’m still looking into their wealth tax. Re: the healthcare, there might be a bit u would have to pay depending on your annual income, it’s not much compared to the US.
If u buy a place, u need to title it in the name of a company that u form and name the owners as shareholders ( this is to avoid inheritance tax for ur heirs).
@ yes, you’re right and social security won’t be taxed. I don’t mind taxes too much if they make life better for all and from what I see, French taxes do. As to the wealth tax - I think it isn’t a bad thing if it keeps the world’s greediest billionaires away. Let them ruin other countries and destroy middle classes elsewhere. That tax protects the French lifestyle.
Your feeling represents a movement across Europe, in every country. when life becomes a bit more difficult in terms of cost of living, people are looking for someone to blame. When expats and immigrants are on the news a lot, people end up blaming them. Does't matter if it's right or not. If you really want to live in a country, make the effort to help the people who live there for a long time and blend in, learn the language and if you really try, people will see it and respect your effort.
I think it could be fair to say it's not just seen in Europe, but in humanity as a whole. It's easy to blame the outsider, the other, the person not a full fledged member of the community. I do agree with you that it's important to make an effort, however, the issue is that the person from abroad (in many places) will always be treated as an outsider, at least to some extent.
Given that crime and violence really have increased due to the out of control floods of people coming in from less reputable places, and the housing market really is horrible due to an increase in demand, and that an increase in the numbers of people willing to do anything keeps down pressure on wages, maybe there is something to it and people all over Europe are not that wrong. You guys can talk all you wan about humanity, and blah blah blah, but Western countries can't just take the whole world in just because leftists think they should, the system simply won't be able to function and people will resent who they perceive as part of the problem.
@@RafaelDiFuria Well said
If you get a 4k/Month income, than you will have a great life in Portugal, Food, Sun & Safety... Below that, avoid it at all costs...
..so Rafael.. Wich 10 countries in Europe are better?? .. line them up for us ;)
None . They are all in crisis 😂😂😂😂😂
Poland economic is growing fast and will overcome British economic by 2030. 😊
I agree...Portugal might not be the right option for YOU!! It is for us...Coming from France, it is affordable and with a fixed home mortgage it provides security and affordability!! We love it, but should Americans move here...Not sure that's a good idea!! Don't come here with your expectations...It's different, that's sure, but if you navigate properly it can be a beautiful place to call home!
Hello there. Frankly speaking I question this guy’s motivations. I just came back from visiting Porto and Braga. Cedofeita, the trendy neighborhood of Porto, is undergoing major gentrification and has new T1 listings starting at €260,000.00. The flat might be on the smaller side of what you are used to seeing in a one bedroom, but it could be a great fit for a single occupant wanting an urban vibe and quality of life.
And if you are a surfer and want to experience laidback oceanfront living with a mere 10 minute car ride to Porto airport, there is the city of Matosinhos which is a 10 minute metro ride from Porto’s historic center.
You're both a bunch of out of touch rich brats, who don't know what it's like working for 800 a month in Portugal.
@@periscope7731 I wish it were only 10 minutes...still, 20-25 minutes from Trindade isn't bad at all. Housing prices in Matosinhos, however, aren't the cheapest.
@ Yes, I noticed that. My journey on the blue metro A line from the Heroisma stop took 40 minutes. I see that flats on Idealista for Matosinhos start at €900.00 per month for T1 unfurnished. Probably not oceanfront. Quite the posh scene there with bougie salons, laser clinics and yoga studios. I am planning to relocate to Porto area Spring 2025. I have been advised by experts that Cedofeita, Paranhos, and Vila Nova de Gaia are more tranquil and cost effective options away from the bustling historic center. Is that right? Obrigado.🙌
I think all countries are not how they were. Blame WEF.
Oh my…😮 What are you going to do ? Moving again ? Sounds like you want to leave. Maybe try Spain ?
No matter how bad you think Portugal has become, don't change for Canada
High rents , high real estate prices and high income taxes .
Former colonial empires in Europe always face a potential return of descendents of emigrants if the political or socio-economic situation deteriorates abroad. Portugal is quite a tiny country compared to Brazil, where lots of people can claim the Portuguese nationality by descendence... or any other EU nationality allowing them to move to Portugal. After all Portuguese is the language they speak, though Brazilian Portuguese sounds differently. Therefore Brazilians are immediately recognized as such. Brazil has a high crime rate. Brazilians moving to Portugal aren't necessarily angels either. Legal migration from Brazil (much less from Angola and other Portuguese former colonies) drives up the housing demand and therfore also the property prices at a rate not seen in any other EU member state. The impact of English speaking expats is secondary and it is fading, after Portugal has abandoned their favourite taxation scheme for new immigrants.
You're not wrong but it goes beyond that. Those Brazilians, angolans, and others from former colonies are, with some exceptions, mostly not descendants from portuguese, they don't think of themselves as Portuguese or care thatmuch about Portugal, they just care about getting away from their countries and live in Europe. Then you add the third-world migrants from Asian countries, like India, Bangladesh, Pakistan, and some others, who have nothing to do with Portugal, and yet have moved in high numbers to the country and you have a disaster because all these countries have gigantic populations while Portugal is tiny. I agree it's not westerners moving to Portugal who are the problem. Americans, British, and other westerners are for the most part, relatively respectful, peaceful, and culturally similar enough, the others I mentioned not as much, so the problem is not immigration or immigrants, but the type and quantity of immigration and immigrants, because it's not all the same.
Do u not cook for your self hun eating out not good for anyone these day's most things are just put in microwaves and heated up even in uk better to cook from home yourself lol
When you started talking about food, comparing it negatively with other European countries, that's where I stopped the video. Anyone who travels across Europe and finds countries where the food is terrible, such as the UK, Spain, etc., compared to the variety and quality of Portuguese food, knows how distorted the perspective you're presenting in this video is.
This is a line of drivel. You say nothing concrete or specific. So be quiet.
Many may not agree with me, but Americans romanticize Europe too much. Also, when one stays in a country where they don't speak the language- as they begin to understand the language, people don't seem so friendly.
Foreigners with a lot of money are part of the problem. Portugal has a very low minimum wage, which is no secret to most of us- many Portuguese can not afford the rising cost of living.
As I have said many times on this platform, I never liked Portugal to live. I found the people a bit fake, if you ask me. Many try to come across as being friendly and nice, because they want you to say that they are friendly and nice. Unfortunately, I had some really negative experiences in Portugal.
I was robbed, so when people say it is a low crime country- I can't relate.
I also found the Portuguese incompetent. There is no way to sugarcoat it. Some people might say their laid-back. I say that some are lazy and simply don't care.
Boa sorte!
BINGO!
Very true.
Problem with Americans is they lack the cultural understanding and nuances. They assume they're the normal ones and can't imagine some things are made differently. They also assume English can be used anywhere at any time. When they romanticize Europe it's usually a handful of countries like France and Italy.
Americans romanticize Europe because their liberals try to sell a "perfect socialist paradise" just waiting for you if you just (*insert fave bs here, like Sweden is so safe and developed >let me have a laugh; Italy is so high-end and aesthetic? Etc etc etc).
Also, people are complete phonies in Portugal. If you hear their opinions on foreigners while traveling or having the upper hand on you, you'll see it.
Most times, they put their good boy's mask so they can probe any future benefit from you. Repugnant! And their constant need yo be well-regarded and "everybody's friend"> except the day you actually need them, that's the day their phone broke.
I think your fail to delineate between legal and illegal immigration when it comes the sentiment towards foreigners. You don't have to look that far. Lisbon, to a slightly smaller degree Porto, in the south, recent issues in Setubal, and even in Braga where you live, the level of insecurity has risen. Once you get that in the large urban centers it is just a matter of time before that starts to spread to smaller places. The Portugal that people love and universally claim is so safe has a reason why it was like that. Portugal was ranked 3rd and has now dropped to 7th. Food for thought.
I don't think there's any reason to differentiate, simply because there's not way to know from simple interactions if a person is legally or illegally in a country. I think people just see the word "foreigner" almost written across your forehead regardless of your legal status.
I agree Rafael. I hear plenty of complaints about all the legal immigrants from "wealthier" countries too. the anger is real, and felt
@@RafaelDiFuriaand another thing, before the new gov ended "declaration of intent" there really was no reason to be ilegal, but from now on that will happen more. The sad thing is that a good number of portuguese import their fears and political knowledge from america and cant even realise how their country works and has worked for a long time. We live in an unprecedented time of ignorance and ignorant people thinking they are smart.
Yes please don t move ..😊.Stay in your country..
My advice is to NOT move to the USA. If you have these issues in Portugal, you will be even more disappointed in the US.
I can say without a doubt that there really no plans for a move to that part of the world 😅
Entirely possible
True.lived there.. It's worse.
Same thing going on everywhere. Blame the immigrants. In reality they should be blaming their government for allowing corporations to buy government and now they are doing as they please including raising prices and not giving their employees raises to deal with the inflation.
Cities are expensive and way over rated everywhere (and sh!t holes IMO)..Quality of life is much better outside cities. Full stop
I think though it depends on which cities you’re talking about and which areas outside of the cities. Some areas just outside of major centers can be a bit sketchy anywhere in the world. It just depends.
That is not entirely true. I just came back from two weeks visiting Porto and one week in Braga. The Porto metro system is rat free, clean, and free of litter as are the streets.
Would you recommend Italy to live? Is it a better place to live than Portugal?
It depends on your tax situation. If you're an Italian resident, you'll be taxed on worldwide income. I think he said something about that in his "don't move to Italy" video. (Am not an expert, so someone correct me if I'm wrong)
@loumac9312 It's tough to say, better is relative depending on the person... for some Portugal may be the right choice while for others Italy may be the better choice.
@kitty_s23546 rughly speaking, the main qualifier is simply just residing in taly, regardless of your citizenship.
I would add that you cannot generalize with Italy. For instance, Sicily and Milano are like two entirely different worlds .... culture, economy, climate, so different. It really depends on WHERE in Italy. If I had to choose a spot I would pick a place like Western Liguria (Mediterranean climate and culture but Western European cleanliness, safety, fairly good economy).
Chega!
dont move to portugal... why???? muito brasileiro🤣🤣🤣🤣
Portugal in the last 20 years has been invaded by foreigners. Surely people will react. Portugal is among the smallest countries in Europe so there is a limit.
It's an interesting point because I've heard some people argue that Portugal "invaded" so many other places... humanity is always on the move. Who is moving where and how can always grab someone's attention when they see other changes to their life, regardless of whether the changes to local life are connected or not to the new arrivals... however, I would say it's fair to say that there have been many changes do to the population of foreign in the country.
@RafaelDiFuria A somewhat flawed comparison on your part. Portuguese moving to the UK, Germany, USA or Canada can't be compared since those countries are way larger and richer. It's like saying moving to France or Morocco is the same thing.
@@borisnegrarosa9113 I was referring to Brazil, Angola, Mozambique, Cape Verde, India, Guinea-Bissau, and others from the last hundreds of years… or even Japan for example where the Portuguese presence (as well as Spanish) and introduction of Catholicism are argueably the reason why Japan closed itself of to foreigners for about 200 years if I remember correctly with the Sakoku policy
@@RafaelDiFuria Well I'm talking about the current era. Your thinking is just limited. How far back should we go? Should we bring up Genghis Khan perhaps?
my thinking is limited? yet @borisnegrarosa9113 you’re being quite selective about the time periods being discussed.. and on top Ghengis Khan likely had no interactions with the Portuguese 😜 😆
I think I experienced a little bit of the price gauging in my local town. I went to a cafe I had never been before, it was after lunch and no one was there. I had a burger and fries and a 6 oz beer for €9.80. Seemed kinda pricey because you can get a full lunch, beef, rice, veggie and salad for €4.50 at the SuperMercado. Hhmmm.
Hmm to me that actually sounds like a fair price, depending on the quality of the burger. Supermarket lunches often from what I've seen can be quite a bit less, there's definately a markup in many restaurants and cafes... but I know I've paid more for just a burger and fries alone than €9,80. If it was just a frozen party from the freezer section of your supermarket then maybe it would be a bad deal... but in a supermarket, they can definitely be a lot less.
@ Rafael, Thanks for your response. Well, just around the corner from that place is a Kabob restaurant, full service, that sells
a great burger for €5, they were closed at that time. My town, in Braga district, has a population of 50k. Everything here is cheaper than Braga.
But I will take it under advisement. 👍
Opportunists take advantage 🤑🤬
Dont move to portugal if you dont want to learn the language.
I’d agree and say that probably goes for just about every country out there
I watch various Twitter channels. Portugal is having some challenging illegal immigration problems. Those are enough reasons to think twice about coming there.
This is a European problem. Not a Portuguese problem. Stay off of twitter. 😂
no, we have a modern slavery problem
Very depressing. You mean immigrants being exploited?
Rent is expensive because there are not enough houses, and everyone wants to come here. And to the big cities. Go live 30min outside of braga. You’ll have a good time.
It’s not big like Italy. That’s why it’s not affordable.
In general Europe doesn’t have good meat, bar Ireland. you want good meat go to the US and even Africa. We are not red meat producers. But damn our pork is great.
Where are you going next? Spain?😂
Amanhã é outro dia 😂 passo a passo. We like hurdles.
It depends on your lifestyle. If you have lots of disposable income, love to shop and meet your friends for spa and lunch dates, then you will love the tranquility and poshness of Braga. If you are more into buzzy urban living, culture and contemporary art, then Porto might be a better fit.
Clickbait. They put the title only to fool users and then is not what it is. Clickbait
Food is not tasty, for sure!
The biggest allure is just English spoken everywhere in big cities.
Portugal. Good if you have remote income or own the property you live in. Shit if your situation is anything else.
That's the truth
That’s the case anywhere in the world.
I think things haven’t changed for worst actually it’s a bit better.its you that have changed and that’s ok. If you go to Lisbon or Porto the international cuisine is done by country locals are really good. Don’t expect a population of 20.000 to have top international food. It’s time you to go .
be more portuguese, be pragmatic. if you wanna stay you are welcomed, and helped by the people; or don't and leave. portugal is not open for an outsiders cheap criticism but accepts constructive criticism, like presenting solutions and showing how it could done better. be warned that to apply good ideas to the practicality of day-to-day life it takes work, time to see it's effects and even then success is not guaranteed! one has got to be half-crazy and have more balls than tongue! and, face it, you don't seem like one needing medical care. let's put you under medication instead! one small glass of port in the morning before breakfast to fortify the stomach, one vodka martini before lunch for general fortification of the body, one bottle of white wine during lunch, 2 bottles of green red wine during dinner, after dessert any old aguardente to numb the mind. with all that fortification who needs a mind, right? repeat treatment for a month, no stops. you'll be alright in no time.
Portugal is a country that I love , I was born there , Lisbon is where I was born. All of this out of control prices of food , rents and so on is the same everywhere in the Western World , although as a Portuguese woman, what I fear the most for Portugal is the fact Portugal is being taken over as in Conquered by the Islam Cult. God help the Portuguese , eg. the UK and Iran.
Exactly what are you referring to? According to Wikipedia, only about 0.42% or less than one half of one percent of the population of Portugal is Muslim, and I would imagine that not all of that population is super religious. Could you explain?
@@lacha608because most of that imigration started 4years ago more than 1 million in 11 million country and they are everywhere even in country side.
Visit lisbon today and see for yourself and its only mens
I live in Portugal, there is no Islam cult, let’s be open, there are alot of people from India that have come here illegally, infact the government cracked down on a company that was bringing loads of people in ships.
Side note- Indians are mostly hindus, etc, there is a little percentage that follows Islam…
We agree move to Spain , Spain is better 😉
The problem with this guy is that he doesn’t know what he wants in life. Look at him. What ? Late thirties . No family , nothing .
And he’s giving YOU advise on where you want to live? Went to Italy , moved to Portugal doesn’t like it anymore …well go back to the US then …or try Brazil.
I know plenty of guys with families and still don't know what they want from life. Constantly complaining about being wage slaves and getting little respect from their wives. In comparison this guy is doing pretty well.
Gay
@ShakeyAguarete it's funny you speak like you know me because you couldn't be further from reality. Firstly, I'm much younger than you think I am 🤣 Next I'm not giving advise on where to live, only sharing my perspectives and views on things. I always say where is right for one person may not be right for another. This video in short was just saying that I don't see Portugal as the place for me and a few of the many reasons why. I still love Portugal but it's changed from what I once knew when I first set foot in the country, even years before moving there. I know exactly what I'm wanting from life and that's why I've come to realize that some of what is found in Portugal doesn't align with what would fit into what I'm wanting from life. It's funny how you mention that family as some sort of benchmark for knowing what you want from life. I might argue that some get stuck in that who never knew what they wanted and still don't know nor care. Having a family is not the end all be all... also if you've ever noticed I rarely talk about my relationship status ;)
@jw841 thank you for the kind words
He’s not giving advice, he is only sharing experiences, and being honest as alot of people have presented Portugal as nearly a paradise. Also, why watch him if you don’t like his comments 😅
i have not been to Portugal in years. It then was so beautiful. Yet, in comparison to Italy or France it left my list. Currently live in Mexico and because of certain political issues that again have become up front.....It is time to look again. Please, France or Italy and why? My Spanish is 3rd level. Spanish taxes are not an option. What do you suggest? Have watched so many of your video"s, Am very concerned. Be well Rafael. And you just mentioned....I am retired. Abrazos.
I don’t think I’d ever consider living in France.
But that’s just me personally. There are many people who seem to like it. But I don’t see it being for me. So between Italy and France,
for what I look for out of life there’s only one choice… but which is right for you is unfortunately impossible for me to say.
Spain though is a place I’d thought about in the past. I haven’t looked into it too deeply but I’ve been hearing about changes regarding the Spanish taxation system that could make it more interesting. Not sure when you last looked but if it was more than a year or two ago I might double check that.
Wishing you all the best in your next move!
Back to Italy?😊
Portugal is done.
why you living there move out