Why Portugal?
The interest for Portugal has increased significantly in the last years. Not only has Portugal experienced a big increase in tourism, but a lot of internationals are also seeking to invest in a second home. But why Portugal? And why should you invest in a property here? There are several reasons, but some stand out more than others. We have listed them in this article.
Portugal has seven regions, which in itself indicates that there is a lot to visit and get to know, but we have at least 10 reasons why it is a good choice and on the list of trips you should do in your lifetime.
The country’s history and culture, gastronomy and wines, are among the main attractions, not to mention the beaches, surfing, music festivals, golf, the varied landscapes and, above all, the Portuguese people, who are seen as affable, open and sincere.
The recent award from the World Travel Awards, which considered Portugal the World’s Best Destination has just confirmed the current trend, also acknowledged by many guides, travel writers, bloggers and the media from around the world specialising in travel and tourism. And do you know why Portugal has been on everyone’s lips? We’ll give you a clue here.
The country’s history and culture, gastronomy and wines, are among the main attractions, not to mention the beaches, surfing, music festivals, golf, the varied landscapes and, above all, the Portuguese people, who are seen as affable, open and sincere.
The recent award from the World Travel Awards, which considered Portugal the World’s Best Destination has just confirmed the current trend, also acknowledged by many guides, travel writers, bloggers and the media from around the world specialising in travel and tourism. And do you know why Portugal has been on everyone’s lips? We’ll give you a clue here.
Portugal – A brief overview of the country
Portugal is located on the most Western point of Europe and considered a gateway for the international transactional market. Only 45 minutes away from Madrid, 2 hours from Paris and London, 3 hours from Central Europe, 5 hours from the American Continent and 7 hours away from the African savannah adventures. Thus, Portugal is set in the centre of the world map.
Bathed by the Atlantic Ocean, one of the main elements responsible for the Portuguese discoveries, Portugal created a strong bond with China in the 15th Century because they were the first European people to establish contact with the Chinese. It was also during this Century that the Portuguese navigator, Vasco da Gama, was allowed to purchase porcelain and tea from China, thus bringing them over to the “old continent” and introducing the tea drinking habit among the European population.
Lisbon is the capital city of this centennial country and, in 2014, was considered the best city to live, visit and invest by Bloom Consulting. Lisbon, alongside with Oporto – the second largest city of the country – are very well positioned in the cities’ ranking that offer best quality of life, reflected in its citizens’ opinion regarding safety, health care, cost of living, traffic, housing, crime and pollution.
This sunny country has endless white sanded beaches, golden mountains and cosmopolitan cities with a millennial heritage. Portugal has fresh air and drinkable water in all of the country as well as mild winters and hot summers with an average annual total of 3300 hours of sun. During summer, the temperature is around 28ºC and in winter a comfortable 12ºC, in Lisbon. It is one of the European countries with the mildest weather.
Portugal is located on the most Western point of Europe and considered a gateway for the international transactional market. Only 45 minutes away from Madrid, 2 hours from Paris and London, 3 hours from Central Europe, 5 hours from the American Continent and 7 hours away from the African savannah adventures. Thus, Portugal is set in the centre of the world map.
Bathed by the Atlantic Ocean, one of the main elements responsible for the Portuguese discoveries, Portugal created a strong bond with China in the 15th Century because they were the first European people to establish contact with the Chinese. It was also during this Century that the Portuguese navigator, Vasco da Gama, was allowed to purchase porcelain and tea from China, thus bringing them over to the “old continent” and introducing the tea drinking habit among the European population.
Lisbon is the capital city of this centennial country and, in 2014, was considered the best city to live, visit and invest by Bloom Consulting. Lisbon, alongside with Oporto – the second largest city of the country – are very well positioned in the cities’ ranking that offer best quality of life, reflected in its citizens’ opinion regarding safety, health care, cost of living, traffic, housing, crime and pollution.
This sunny country has endless white sanded beaches, golden mountains and cosmopolitan cities with a millennial heritage. Portugal has fresh air and drinkable water in all of the country as well as mild winters and hot summers with an average annual total of 3300 hours of sun. During summer, the temperature is around 28ºC and in winter a comfortable 12ºC, in Lisbon. It is one of the European countries with the mildest weather.
The cities, Lisbon and Porto
If you have only a few days, Lisbon and Porto are two very attractive cities, just a few hours flight from most major European cities. Both are bathed by a river that gives them a characteristic and different environment.
They are hospitable places with their historic neighbourhoods and streets with tiled façades, to get to know by day or enjoy on a night out, along with examples of modern architecture and urban art, and they also have a really diverse and creative cultural agenda.
Lisbon is a city with a special radiance, which comes from the Tagus river and the proximity of the sea. Porto, an ancient city, whose historic centre has been classified as World Heritage, is the point of arrival of the River Douro, on whose valley slopes the famous Port wine is cultivated.
If you have only a few days, Lisbon and Porto are two very attractive cities, just a few hours flight from most major European cities. Both are bathed by a river that gives them a characteristic and different environment.
They are hospitable places with their historic neighbourhoods and streets with tiled façades, to get to know by day or enjoy on a night out, along with examples of modern architecture and urban art, and they also have a really diverse and creative cultural agenda.
Lisbon is a city with a special radiance, which comes from the Tagus river and the proximity of the sea. Porto, an ancient city, whose historic centre has been classified as World Heritage, is the point of arrival of the River Douro, on whose valley slopes the famous Port wine is cultivated.
Sun, Beach and Sea
The presence of the Atlantic Ocean and the climate, with very sunny summers and mild winters make Portugal a holiday destination renowned for sun and sea and walks on the beach throughout the year.
In fact, the Portuguese coast is almost a single beach extending more than 850 km and offering a diversity of landscapes that allows you to choose between the rougher and cooler sea in the north and the warm, placid waters of the south.
There are large stretches of golden sand for those who love an expansive horizon, and also little coves with orange tinted rocks and cliffs. Of the wide variety of beaches, more than 300 have first rate conditions and earn the accolade of Blue Flag beaches. Nearly 200 are accessible beaches.
The presence of the Atlantic Ocean and the climate, with very sunny summers and mild winters make Portugal a holiday destination renowned for sun and sea and walks on the beach throughout the year.
In fact, the Portuguese coast is almost a single beach extending more than 850 km and offering a diversity of landscapes that allows you to choose between the rougher and cooler sea in the north and the warm, placid waters of the south.
There are large stretches of golden sand for those who love an expansive horizon, and also little coves with orange tinted rocks and cliffs. Of the wide variety of beaches, more than 300 have first rate conditions and earn the accolade of Blue Flag beaches. Nearly 200 are accessible beaches.
Walking and cycling trips
The Natural Parks and Reserves, Geoparks and Biosphere Reserves recognised by UNESCO have ensured that Portugal is also a destination very appreciated for enjoying outdoor activities, whether they are more contemplative, such as bird watching, or more extreme, like canyoning.
In the last few years, following nature trails on foot or by bike has been a good choice for those who like to combine physical exercise and contact with the local culture.
The Natural Parks and Reserves, Geoparks and Biosphere Reserves recognised by UNESCO have ensured that Portugal is also a destination very appreciated for enjoying outdoor activities, whether they are more contemplative, such as bird watching, or more extreme, like canyoning.
In the last few years, following nature trails on foot or by bike has been a good choice for those who like to combine physical exercise and contact with the local culture.
Paths of Faith
But the paths that are followed are also an encounter with spirituality. The Portuguese Road to Santiago and the Paths of Fátima are increasingly sought out by those who like walking a purpose, focusing on knowledge, nature and culture.
Portugal is also seen as an important centre of Marian devotion. The Shrine of Fátima, which celebrated the Centenary of the Apparitions of Our Lady in May 2017, is its greatest exponent, attracting thousands of visitors from around the globe every year.
But the paths that are followed are also an encounter with spirituality. The Portuguese Road to Santiago and the Paths of Fátima are increasingly sought out by those who like walking a purpose, focusing on knowledge, nature and culture.
Portugal is also seen as an important centre of Marian devotion. The Shrine of Fátima, which celebrated the Centenary of the Apparitions of Our Lady in May 2017, is its greatest exponent, attracting thousands of visitors from around the globe every year.
Surfing
On the mainland and in the archipelagos of Madeira and the Azores alike, it is easy to see that Portugal offers ideal conditions for surfing. Surfers of all types find on the Portuguese coast the largest number of spots with the least distance between them, where they compete in events from the most important championships in the world, like the Rip Curl Pro Portugal.
There are perfect tubular waves in Peniche, giant waves in Nazareth [Nazaré], and the longest in Europe in Figueira da Foz. Ericeira, meanwhile, was the 1st Surfing Reserve in Europe and 2nd at world level. So you see, you can come to Portugal a number of times and always get a different wave! More information in https://portuguesewaves.com
On the mainland and in the archipelagos of Madeira and the Azores alike, it is easy to see that Portugal offers ideal conditions for surfing. Surfers of all types find on the Portuguese coast the largest number of spots with the least distance between them, where they compete in events from the most important championships in the world, like the Rip Curl Pro Portugal.
There are perfect tubular waves in Peniche, giant waves in Nazareth [Nazaré], and the longest in Europe in Figueira da Foz. Ericeira, meanwhile, was the 1st Surfing Reserve in Europe and 2nd at world level. So you see, you can come to Portugal a number of times and always get a different wave! More information in https://portuguesewaves.com
Music Festivals
Music festivals can be a good excuse to come to Portugal and have a different kind of holiday, taking the chance to learn about the sites in a fun way, in a relaxed setting.
The choice is yours, depending on what music you like, there are international festivals near to cities, in Lisbon and Porto, in a rural environment, next to the river, or in combination with some nice days at the beach.
See which festivals are already scheduled for 2018 and check out their line-ups at www.portuguesemusicfestivals.com.
Music festivals can be a good excuse to come to Portugal and have a different kind of holiday, taking the chance to learn about the sites in a fun way, in a relaxed setting.
The choice is yours, depending on what music you like, there are international festivals near to cities, in Lisbon and Porto, in a rural environment, next to the river, or in combination with some nice days at the beach.
See which festivals are already scheduled for 2018 and check out their line-ups at www.portuguesemusicfestivals.com.
Golf
In recent years, Portugal has consecutively won the award for best golf destination in Europe and the world, at the World Golf Awards.
Something that is not to be wondered at if we remember that the climate of Portugal is gentle throughout the year. In addition, in the Algarve and Lisbon regions in particular, quite a number of courses have won several awards and you will find good challenges there, as well as being able to attend some major events of the sport’s professional tours.
Many golf courses have been designed by renowned architects like Robert Trent Jones, Rocky Roquemore, Sir Henry Cotton, Arnold Palmer, among others. However, what best defines them is their unquestionable quality and scenic beauty, as they are often in unspoilt areas and have the sea as a backdrop.
In recent years, Portugal has consecutively won the award for best golf destination in Europe and the world, at the World Golf Awards.
Something that is not to be wondered at if we remember that the climate of Portugal is gentle throughout the year. In addition, in the Algarve and Lisbon regions in particular, quite a number of courses have won several awards and you will find good challenges there, as well as being able to attend some major events of the sport’s professional tours.
Many golf courses have been designed by renowned architects like Robert Trent Jones, Rocky Roquemore, Sir Henry Cotton, Arnold Palmer, among others. However, what best defines them is their unquestionable quality and scenic beauty, as they are often in unspoilt areas and have the sea as a backdrop.
World Heritage
The 22 classifications in Portugal portray the history and culture of the country, its people and the peoples that have inhabited the land since time immemorial. Monasteries and convents of historic and artistic importance, outstanding monuments, historic centres, cultural landscapes, which offer some of the most beautiful natural scenery in Portugal, were considered by UNESCO as being a part of World Heritage.
The list is completed with icons that express a way of being and how to be a people in their times of celebration, Fado, the Cante Alentejano [Alentejo singing] and the Mediterranean diet. And yet, with arts and crafts that unite Intangible Cultural Heritage, such as the manufacture of rattles, the manufacture of the black pottery of Bisalhães, the art of the Royal Falconry, and the manufacture of clay dolls in Estremoz.
A visit to these Portuguese contributions to world history are a must and a good excuse to get to know the country from north to south.
The 22 classifications in Portugal portray the history and culture of the country, its people and the peoples that have inhabited the land since time immemorial. Monasteries and convents of historic and artistic importance, outstanding monuments, historic centres, cultural landscapes, which offer some of the most beautiful natural scenery in Portugal, were considered by UNESCO as being a part of World Heritage.
The list is completed with icons that express a way of being and how to be a people in their times of celebration, Fado, the Cante Alentejano [Alentejo singing] and the Mediterranean diet. And yet, with arts and crafts that unite Intangible Cultural Heritage, such as the manufacture of rattles, the manufacture of the black pottery of Bisalhães, the art of the Royal Falconry, and the manufacture of clay dolls in Estremoz.
A visit to these Portuguese contributions to world history are a must and a good excuse to get to know the country from north to south.
Gastronomy and Wines
Portuguese gastronomy is greatly appreciated and usually leaves good memories. The country’s location and the proximity of the Atlantic explain the prominence which is given to fish and seafood. These taste even better when enjoyed on the seafront in the pleasant Portuguese sun, with the addition of a huge variety of top quality table wines. The Mediterranean diet is one of its most remarkable characteristics, with olive oil, vegetables and herbs much in evidence.
Port wine has been a great ambassador of Portugal for centuries, and nowadays it is accompanied by other genuinely Portuguese products, like the pastel de nata [custard tart] and conventual confectionery.
The mastery of talented chefs has also raised our cooking to the heights of the best cuisines in the world.
Portuguese gastronomy is greatly appreciated and usually leaves good memories. The country’s location and the proximity of the Atlantic explain the prominence which is given to fish and seafood. These taste even better when enjoyed on the seafront in the pleasant Portuguese sun, with the addition of a huge variety of top quality table wines. The Mediterranean diet is one of its most remarkable characteristics, with olive oil, vegetables and herbs much in evidence.
Port wine has been a great ambassador of Portugal for centuries, and nowadays it is accompanied by other genuinely Portuguese products, like the pastel de nata [custard tart] and conventual confectionery.
The mastery of talented chefs has also raised our cooking to the heights of the best cuisines in the world.
The People…
One of the things that tourists notice most when they visit us, is the hospitality and friendliness of the Portuguese, who are always ready to help if they are stopped on the street and asked for information. Perhaps it is the sun which gives us a good disposition, to welcome anyone, wherever they’re from…
One of the things that tourists notice most when they visit us, is the hospitality and friendliness of the Portuguese, who are always ready to help if they are stopped on the street and asked for information. Perhaps it is the sun which gives us a good disposition, to welcome anyone, wherever they’re from…
6 Reasons why you should invest in a property in Portugal
1. NHR Tax Programme
NHR stands for Non-Habitual Residency and is a tax program in Portugal. If you are planning to retire, expect to receive interest or dividends, and you have not lived in Portugal in any of the last five tax years, you are qualified for the NHR. The tax programme enables you to receive qualifying income tax free both in Portugal and in the country of source of the income.
The NHR programme is also available for Non-EU passport holders. However, it is then called “Golden Visa”. In order to be eligible for this, you will need to invest at least 500,000€ (or 350,000€ reduced option) in real estate in Portugal. This is one of the main reasons why moving to Portugal is a good investment, and the free movement within the Schengen zone, which enables you to travel freely throughout most of Europe, makes it even more attractive.
2. New Developments
As with most bigger cities, Lisbon is always developing. Since the demands are growing for apartments and houses, new developments are being built around the area. There is also a lot of renovations happening because of the older buildings. Companies are investing in modernization of older properties, as well as new developments around the city. But it does not stop in Lisbon – you will find new developments throughout the country, which breathes new life to old properties.
3. Stable Property Market
Although Portugal suffered an economic crisis, their recovery has been impressive. Much is due to the European Central Banks policies, but also because of the increase of tourists and foreign investors that are looking for their second home. Since the popularity started to rise, so did the property demand. With a stable economy, upheld by EU speculation, Portugal’s property market has made it the perfect spot to put resources into property.
4. One of the Lowest Costs of Living in Europe
Portugal is one of Europe’s cheapest countries to live in and has attracted many second home buyers. Although the capital city is one of the more expensive places to settle down in Portugal, it is still quite affordable when you compare it to many other European big cities. Not only is Lisbon one of the most charming cities in Europe, it is also multicultural with a big variety of restaurants and cafés, it has become a tech startup hub, and you will get close proximity to some of the most beautiful beaches in Portugal. Combine it all and you have one of the most attractive cities to live in.
5. Stable Political Climate and Lowest Crime Rate in Europe
If you wanna live in one of the most peaceful and safe countries in the world, then why not move to Portugal. It has the lowest crime rate in Europe and has topped charts as being one of the friendliest countries in the world as well. Whether you live in the capital city of Lisbon, move up north to Porto, or settle down in the south by the Algarve, you will feel safe amongst the locals and internationals. Portugal’s political climate is also one of Europe’s most stable ones, creating a sense of secureness in the country and for the people.
6. Climate and Culture
With nearly 300 days of sun per year, Portugal offers some of Europe’s best climate, with mild winters and warm summers. Combine that with some of the most beautiful beaches and you have a winning combo. Invest in a Portugal property if you would like to live in a place where the sun will always shine on your face. However, that is not the sole reason why people love Portugal so much. The Portuguese and their culture has charmed many international second home buyers with their gastronomy, festivities, traditions and their friendliness towards foreigners. Once you’ve moved here, you will soon feel like a local yourself.
NHR stands for Non-Habitual Residency and is a tax program in Portugal. If you are planning to retire, expect to receive interest or dividends, and you have not lived in Portugal in any of the last five tax years, you are qualified for the NHR. The tax programme enables you to receive qualifying income tax free both in Portugal and in the country of source of the income.
The NHR programme is also available for Non-EU passport holders. However, it is then called “Golden Visa”. In order to be eligible for this, you will need to invest at least 500,000€ (or 350,000€ reduced option) in real estate in Portugal. This is one of the main reasons why moving to Portugal is a good investment, and the free movement within the Schengen zone, which enables you to travel freely throughout most of Europe, makes it even more attractive.
2. New Developments
As with most bigger cities, Lisbon is always developing. Since the demands are growing for apartments and houses, new developments are being built around the area. There is also a lot of renovations happening because of the older buildings. Companies are investing in modernization of older properties, as well as new developments around the city. But it does not stop in Lisbon – you will find new developments throughout the country, which breathes new life to old properties.
3. Stable Property Market
Although Portugal suffered an economic crisis, their recovery has been impressive. Much is due to the European Central Banks policies, but also because of the increase of tourists and foreign investors that are looking for their second home. Since the popularity started to rise, so did the property demand. With a stable economy, upheld by EU speculation, Portugal’s property market has made it the perfect spot to put resources into property.
4. One of the Lowest Costs of Living in Europe
Portugal is one of Europe’s cheapest countries to live in and has attracted many second home buyers. Although the capital city is one of the more expensive places to settle down in Portugal, it is still quite affordable when you compare it to many other European big cities. Not only is Lisbon one of the most charming cities in Europe, it is also multicultural with a big variety of restaurants and cafés, it has become a tech startup hub, and you will get close proximity to some of the most beautiful beaches in Portugal. Combine it all and you have one of the most attractive cities to live in.
5. Stable Political Climate and Lowest Crime Rate in Europe
If you wanna live in one of the most peaceful and safe countries in the world, then why not move to Portugal. It has the lowest crime rate in Europe and has topped charts as being one of the friendliest countries in the world as well. Whether you live in the capital city of Lisbon, move up north to Porto, or settle down in the south by the Algarve, you will feel safe amongst the locals and internationals. Portugal’s political climate is also one of Europe’s most stable ones, creating a sense of secureness in the country and for the people.
6. Climate and Culture
With nearly 300 days of sun per year, Portugal offers some of Europe’s best climate, with mild winters and warm summers. Combine that with some of the most beautiful beaches and you have a winning combo. Invest in a Portugal property if you would like to live in a place where the sun will always shine on your face. However, that is not the sole reason why people love Portugal so much. The Portuguese and their culture has charmed many international second home buyers with their gastronomy, festivities, traditions and their friendliness towards foreigners. Once you’ve moved here, you will soon feel like a local yourself.