A scouting trip to Portugal

So you want to move abroad but aren’t sure about it? Find out 7 tips to make your scouting trip to Portugal a success before relocating.

Moving to Portugal

Moving abroad is a bold move. Still, in the last few years, thousands of people from all over the world are choosing to relocate to Portugal. As the relocation process involves a great deal of decision-making, going on a scouting trip to Portugal is extremely helpful.

But how can going on a trip help you plan your relocation? What exactly is a scouting trip and what should you pay attention to before moving to Portugal?

We’ve selected some excellent tips for ex-pats moving to Portugal. So if you want to make sure you make the best relocation decisions ever, keep reading!

Going on a scouting trip to Portugal before relocating

Sometimes, the only way to make sure something is done right is by doing it yourself. You can read tons of articles about living in Portugal. Then you can ask ten people their opinions, and you’ll get ten different points of view. But either way, it is still not your own opinion.

The best way to be sure that you should make a life-changing experience, really, is by doing it yourself.

A Scouting trip to Portugal

So, a scouting trip to Portugal is perfect for giving you a sneak peek of what your life can be like.

Even though there are expenses related to it regarding transport, accommodation, and so on, if you’re definitely considering doing it, it is worth it.

So turn your scouting mode on and let’s dive into what makes a scouting trip to Portugal successful! Here is what you need to know to make your trip as certain as it can be.

1. Know what you should look for

Remember, this is a scouting trip. You’ll be examining the terrain before attacking it. So have in mind what it is you’re looking for.

A scouting trip to Portugal may help you to:

Choose the best city to live in Portugal;

Discover what the day-to-day routine and the cost of living are;

Choose a neighbourhood to move into;

Visit schools or houses before committing to an investment;

Decide if you even like Portugal or not.

2. Consider meeting a Portuguese guide

Once you are in Portugal and are going to learn all you can about the country before moving, why not have a local guide with you?

It’s always great to have a local friend show you around in a new place, especially if you don’t speak the language yet. You will have plenty of time to learn to speak Portuguese as well, but talking to residents really helps you get a better idea of what it’s like to live in Portugal.

Not to mention, by hanging out with Portugal residents, you get to know the best places to eat, to shop, and also day-to-day tips, like short ways and the fastest post-office.

3. Make your own to-do list

If you’re taking your time to explore Portugal with your own eyes before settling down, you should go prepared.

Have in mind what it is that you will be looking for. What cities you’re considering, and what you should pay attention to out there.

Your to-do list could go a bit like this:

Stay at an Airbnb in Príncipe Real neighbourhood;

Get to know other ex-pats in the area (maybe online or at a bar?);

Take the subway to Cascais, the bus to Sintra, and the train to Setúbal;

Explore Lisbon without a car (check out the trams?);

Go grocery shopping and stock a week’s worth of food to check prices and the local market;

Go on a road trip to the Algarve;

Visit Porto and the Douro wine region;

Avoid fast food and try only Portuguese food;

Ask for an espresso in Portuguese at least once.

But of course, this is just an example. Depending on what lifestyle you want in Portugal, and what goal you have for your scouting trip, you should set different activities.

4. Prepare your exploration in advance

Whether you’re going for a house hunt or exploring different neighbourhoods, be sure to schedule your visits in advance.

Especially since the pandemic started, travel rules change often and you never know when you’re going to have extra expenses. And, of course, you can never be too careful with your own health. Healthcare in Portugal is known for its high quality, especially in Lisbon and Porto, but visiting the hospital during a trip is not something to look forward to.

5. Don’t be a tourist

It’s easy to lose focus and think this trip is simply a vacation, but this isn’t a pleasure trip. Think of your scouting trip to Portugal more like a business trip for your future self.

There sure is a lot to do in Portugal. And tourists do have a lot of fun. But if you’re planning on living here, you need to work harder on your relationship.

Visit Portugal before moving abroad

Dive deeper into what it means to be a Portuguese. This European country offers a great quality of life, a rich culture, and very pleasant weather all year round at surprisingly low costs.

6. Get to know how other ex-pats in Portugal live

The idea of moving to Portugal is not that new anymore. Many ex-pats from English-speaking countries are choosing to enjoy life here. So there are many ex-pat communities all over the country.

However, the matter of how families adapt to a new country is often underestimated. It should be on your mind from the moment you decide to move.

Living in Portugal is great, and moving is exciting. But being away from family and loved ones is hard. You will have to learn to deal with the distance and also to make new friends. Having a support network after relocating is crucial for your adaptation!

So don’t be shy and contact other ex-pats in Portugal for lunch, coffee, or picnic. You can learn new things from anyone, even if it means learning from their mistakes.

7. Don’t rush

Even though it may seem like a big deal to get to know the country before officially settling down, take your time.

You don’t need to make any choices right away if you’re not comfortable. Portugal will still be there tomorrow, and you’ll be better off making choices that you’re sure about.

If Portugal does not seem right for you, keep looking. I’m sure you’ll find your ideal place in the world somewhere else.

Article by VIV Europe - Official Legal and relocation Partner to KipperTree

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