Winter Stay In Portugal - What You Need To Know

[@ThisIsOurRetirement]

Please subscribe to our Channel it’s Free 👍

[@robertbeland462]

I was sincerely impressed by your GREAT advice about accessing local currency. 1) Bring destination cash for about 1-2 days. 2) At destination, withdrawal local cash from ATM, using your domestic card. In fact, credit card conversion rates are often more competitive than debit card rates. Some credit card programs even offer "no fees for currency conversion". 3) Decline all invitations to "pre-convert" your transaction to CAD. As a former banker, that was always my advice to travellers.

[@ThisIsOurRetirement]

Glad it was helpful! and thanks for adding to it Robert Cheers 🍷🇵🇹🇨🇦🌺

[@bearders22]

Rental car prices in The Algarve have gone through the roof so don't be surprised when you try and book something

[@ThisIsOurRetirement]

We have heard that , do you usually rent a car 🚗 we were thinking of not having a car all the time this visit Cheers 🍷🇵🇹🙂

[@bearders22]

@@ThisIsOurRetirement in the summer we go for a month and take the car on the ferry to Northern Spain and then drive down. We’ve recently used Luzcar who have an office in Lagos but will meet you at Faro. Cars are generally older with a few scrapes but I’d give them 5* for service and reliability

[@ThisIsOurRetirement]

Sounds great we will check them out , we prefer companies with older cars 🚗 you normally get a better deal 🌺

[@majinbuuuh]

You guys are amazing! The locals like to use the highways, problem is that it gets expensive to use it on a regular basis. Enjoy my country, it's an amazing country for tourism. Good food, friendly people, warm weather, beautiful landscapes, etc. Be happy!

[@ThisIsOurRetirement]

Thank you we love visiting Portugal 🇵🇹 and have missed it these last two years due to Covid , have a great week Cheers 🍷🇨🇦🇵🇹🌺

[@hawkeye5829]

My wife and I just returned from Madrid, Lisbon and Porto on March 24, 2023. Watched many of your videos before our trip, and the information you provided was a big help. This was our first trip to Spain and Portugal, and we will be going back in March of 24. This time we will be going down to the Algarve. Keep up the good work.

[@sharonburkhart3528]

Hi Tina and Norm. You are now my first ever KZbin subscription. 😁Just a note, we flew Air Transat non-stop to Faro this winter from Toronto (and the planes were half empty,). The website shows they are flying the same, once a week, in winter 2023. In case some of your viewers want to try that option. Love your videos!

[@ThisIsOurRetirement]

We have tracked Air Transit flights in 2019 they didn’t fly to Faro until March for the first time, then in 2020 they flew the last week of January, we were on that flight. Before that we had to fly TAP. Thanks for the subscription.

[@johnduxter1105]

Thanks for these tips. Making our first short trip to test things out. Looking forward to it. Great retirement videos.

[@ThisIsOurRetirement]

Your welcome glad it was helpful! have a lovely trip Cheers 🌺🍷🙂🇵🇹🇨🇦

[@elainehamlyn5446]

Hi Tina and Norm. Been following since I think you had

[@ThisIsOurRetirement]

That is awesome! Elaine we hope you have a wonderful retirement Cheers 🍷🇵🇹🌺🇨🇦🍺

[@elainehamlyn]

@@ThisIsOurRetirement Hello Tina and Norm, What did you do for a cell phone while in Portugal? Our provider is quoting us $16/day. And, do you drink tap water? I usually buy bottled water when travelling but if at a restaurant or out and about am wondering how cautious we need to be. Thanks again!

[@marianneeichler648]

Well done show. I began watching your videos to hear about Portugal and have continued to watch because I just limelight your videos. I have been to Portugal twice and want to go again.

[@ThisIsOurRetirement]

Awesome, thank you! we hope you get there again we will be back there this Winter Marianne Cheers 🍷🇵🇹🇨🇦🌺

[@geraldmilligan493]

Hope we run into you on the streets in Portugal this winter. You sold us! Carol & Gerry Milligan, Tamworth, On.

[@ThisIsOurRetirement]

Sounds great! we hope you have a great time Gerald we will probably be there for two months Jan and Feb can’t wait Cheers 🍷🇵🇹🇨🇦🌺

[@timhennigar1468]

bacalou = cod - in case those dont know - camarão is shrimp

[@ThisIsOurRetirement]

Thanks for sharing and it’s delicious 😋 Tim Cheers 🍷🇨🇦🇵🇹🌺

[@pandabearoceanpark]

You are the sweetest retired couples I've seen! You always matching outfits :-) Love watching your channel and dream about my retirement in a year!

[@ThisIsOurRetirement]

Thank you so much!! you are on your countdown to retirement that is wonderful Cheers 🍷🇵🇹🇨🇦🌺

[@beverlywalker4111]

Always enjoy our Saturday morning visits! Knoxville TN

[@ThisIsOurRetirement]

Us too! have a great weekend Beverly Cheers 🍷🇺🇸🇨🇦🇵🇹🌺

[@DonSalmonMusic]

Retirement, Travel, Lifestyle … and PORTUGAL 🇵🇹 Way to go Norm! (Stand up comedy is not far off) Loved the photos, and the advice. Nice to hear a travel video from a 🇨🇦viewpoint. Loved the gourmet food advice. Fantastic Video! Kudos 🫡🫡🫡

[@ThisIsOurRetirement]

Glad you enjoyed it! we hope you have a wonderful weekend Cheers 🍷🇵🇹🇨🇦🙂

[@sammie44]

That’s great news !!! We might join you in Portugal (north), 😃 you guys need to see the north! Worthwhile! 😆 but the Algarve is swimming water temperature perfect! 😀 Take care, Tina and Norm! 🌷Sam and Pedro

[@ThisIsOurRetirement]

Sounds great! we would love to meet you both and yes we need to explore the North , next visit we hope to see Setubal and the Silver Coast enjoy your weekend guys Cheers 🍷🇵🇹🇨🇦🌺

[@beckycillis4703]

Prato do dia ❤️ Between 1:00-3:00 their main meal of the day. Many friends have soup for dinner because it’s so filling! My favorite! Comes with Main dish, salad, bread Olives, a drink 🍷🍺 dessert 🍰☕️& coffee. We’re residents now this is $11 Euros near our local mall. Delicious fresh fish wonderful weather! We’re so happy you are getting to go back soon❣️ Lovely video! Hope to see you there!

[@ThisIsOurRetirement]

That’s sounds wonderful Becky glad you like our videos have a great weekend Cheers 🍷🇵🇹🇨🇦🌺

[@lorrainethomson9850]

Hello! Our friends highly recommended staying in Alvor. They stayed there for 10 winters and explored everywhere in their motorhome but always came back to Alvor. We are planning to do the same for winter 2023, (we are British but have retired to Bulgaria)

[@ThisIsOurRetirement]

We have friends too that always stay in Alvor it is a nice place Cheers 🍷🇵🇹🇨🇦🌺

[@desertdweller8520]

I'm moving to Madeira in January 2023! Woohoo!!

[@ThisIsOurRetirement]

We are hearing of a few people all moving to Madeira are you retiring there 🤔 we wish you well Cheers 🍷🇵🇹🇨🇦🌺

[@JohnEddieg]

Love your helpful videos, you are a very nice couple and do easy to watch travel videos. We are a retired couple living in Milwaukee wi , we travel a lot , have stayed in Malaga for month and a half. Now wanted to try Portugal and the Algarve for winter. So we have booked ARMAÇÃO DE PÊRA for Feb through most of March and saw your video of that location cheers and thank you

[@ThisIsOurRetirement]

That is awesome! great choice John we love it there hope you have a great time Cheers 🙂🇺🇸🌺🇨🇦🇵🇹

[@victorlima9373]

There are direct flights to Faro Portugal from Toronto check Air Transat. Good luck

[@ThisIsOurRetirement]

Thanks for sharing , yes they have extended it to during the summer as well , when we went it was just over Winter Cheers 🍷🇵🇹🇨🇦🌺

[@pensacola321]

That's right Norm. Yes it is, Tina...☺

[@ThisIsOurRetirement]

Thanks for watching 🍷🇨🇦🇵🇹🌺

[@GYX2021]

Both of you look so adorable as usual! I am going to nova Scotia and Newfoundland next month. Cannot wait to visit Canada 🇨🇦

[@ThisIsOurRetirement]

We hope you have a wonderful trip to Canada 🇨🇦 Heidi have a great weekend Cheers 🍷🇨🇦🌺

[@libbyannstew8775]

Hi Heidi, if you’ll be renting a car when in Nova Scotia and Newfoundland you might want to book before you set off from home (if you haven’t already done so). Apparently rentals are in very short supply this year, especially in Newfoundland. Enjoy your vacation!!

[@GYX2021]

@@libbyannstew8775 thank you so much! Yes we already got a rental booked. Canada here we come ❤️😃

[@libbyannstew8775]

@@GYX2021 Terrific! I hope you have a wonderful vacation - you have 2 beautiful provinces to explore. Enjoy. ;-)

[@Dutchy-1168]

We had no problems in the Algarve…. Been a few year now, but I’m sure everyone will thoroughly enjoy it today .

[@ThisIsOurRetirement]

We agree Andy Portugal 🇵🇹 is beautiful and we love visiting Cheers 🍷🇵🇹🇨🇦🌺

[@movetoparadise]

Love Portugal! From the food, the people, the language and the landscape, definitely a lovely place to visit long term

[@ThisIsOurRetirement]

Couldn't agree more! have a wonderful weekend Cheers 🍷🇵🇹🇨🇦🌺

[@libbyannstew8775]

Happy Saturday Norm & Tina! So exciting that you’re heading back to Portugal for the winter months. Do you find you get much rain when you’re there at that time of the year? I don’t know if it’s appropriate for me to recommend an aparthotel and a tour company on your channel so if that’s ok, can you let me know, and I can share what worked for us when we were in Albufeira. If it’s not the done thing, totally understand. When we pack now we don’t even bother with basic personal care items - we do a shop when we arrive for toothpaste, deodorant etc which is kind of fun because you can try products from another country. Thanks for the great insights and happy travel planning to everyone. So fun to think of escaping the winter doldrums in Canada (although I’m glad I have Canada to come home to). Keep up the great work - Bon weekend.

[@ThisIsOurRetirement]

Hi Libbyann no we don’t get much rain ☔️ if we do it dries quickly, sure we would love to know who you used as we are always looking for new places to stay ourselves let us know the cost roughly so we can compare🤔how long do you go for ? Yes we agree always great to come home to Canada 🇨🇦 Cheers 🍷🇵🇹🇨🇦🌺

[@libbyannstew8775]

@@ThisIsOurRetirement Ok sounds good - I’ll get back to you with the the information asap!

[@kathrynmcmeekin9931]

I would be interested in the tour company

[@bridgetlove1884]

My father is from Algarve but I haven't visited in over 25 years. We would visit occasionally during my childhood during summer vacation (Also Galicia Spain as my mother was born there) I am sure it would be unrecognizable to me now. I can't wait to visit again one day but unfortunately we are not retired yet and still have minor children.

[@ThisIsOurRetirement]

We hope you get there one day Bridget maybe 🤔 when you are retired or just for a summer holiday Cheers 🍷🇵🇹🇨🇦🌺

[@annecramb2297]

I have just discovered your channel and just love it! Like you, I am retired and have been thinking about spending the winter in a warmer climate than Scotland’s. You give very helpful advice and are an inspiration to other retirees. I am looking forward to watching lots of your posts so thank you 😊 PS Visiting Canada is also on my list of places to go.

[@ThisIsOurRetirement]

Thank you Anne! It's good to have you here, we have enjoyed The Algarve Portugal in the winter, no too cold not too hot and no crowds! We do hope you make it to Canada, it's very pretty. 😀😀💕

[@johnreilly8131]

Hi, Tina & Norm on the back of your advice my wife and I have decided to spend a month in the Algarve this winter January 2023 to escape the Scottish winter weather, We have holidayed in the area many times in the summer but never stayed longer than two weeks Your videos are great and are very informative If you are in the Algarve and we bump into you at Pico Dolce👌 Supermarket I will buy you a drink! Cheers from Scotland

[@ThisIsOurRetirement]

That is awesome! we hope you both have a great time have a great weekend John Cheers 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿🍷🇨🇦🇵🇹😎

[@benyablonski6278]

Good Saturday Morning, Great tips. You shared a lot of options for people to look at. • we look forward to your updates & hearing what your up to.

[@benyablonski6278]

~ Vancouver Island

[@ThisIsOurRetirement]

Thanks so much! have a great weekend Ben Cheers 🍷🌺🇨🇦

[@ThisIsOurRetirement]

People often say we should move there for the milder climate 🌺

[@mariaburlington4440]

I’m going for a month from January to February. Thanks for all the tips/info!

[@ThisIsOurRetirement]

You are so welcome! have a great time we hope to be there then as well Cheers 🍷🇵🇹🇨🇦🌺

[@nairmiller2658]

Bon Dia, thanks for all your information. We may get the courage to do the same, sure would beet being stuck in the cold winter. Finding the right accommodations with some kind of heat, hear it can get cold at nights. Have a great week.

[@ThisIsOurRetirement]

Most rentals that we have had have a heat /AC unit that has provided both just make sure hydro /electricity is included Cheers 🍷🇵🇹🇨🇦

[@skimmyskemmed]

Hi norm and Tina could you do a video on some of the 1 bedroom apartment you have stayed in and price guide cheers.

[@ThisIsOurRetirement]

We have done two or three videos on the apartments we have stayed in and costs , please take a look at our other ones Cheers 🌺🍷🙂

[@pensionadosontour]

My husband and I hope to travel again to Portugal this winter. There are many Dutch "snowbirds" in Monte Gordo. Maybe we'll meet you there! Have a Nice Day from The Netherlands..

[@ThisIsOurRetirement]

Sounds wonderful, have a good visit.

[@frankc609]

Lots of great tips. Tina and norm you sold me on a trip in to Portugal

[@ThisIsOurRetirement]

That’s great Frank we hope you have a great time 🍷🇵🇹🇨🇦🍺

[@lisajel52]

My vision for my retirement, in Aug 2020, was to travel 4 times a year for 4 weeks at a time to really get to know a bit better the place I was traveling to. My husband and I had always traveled, but it was a week at a time and sometimes 2 weeks. Since my husband passed away before I retired I wanted to delve into a bit more of visiting a place for a month instead of a week. Unfortunately, I fell off a ladder, 3 weeks after retiring while picking apples for the deer in my yard(they’re on their own for apples now!) and I’ve spent the last almost two years dealing with surgeries, recoveries and finally a knee replacement this past January. I love your channel and will watch how you do Portugal. I would love to visit there, it looks divine!

[@ThisIsOurRetirement]

Wow Lisa sorry to hear about your accident we hope you are recovering nicely and yes if you can go to Portugal 🇵🇹 it’s a lovely place to visit Cheers 🍷🇵🇹🇨🇦🌺

[@lisajel52]

@@ThisIsOurRetirement Thank you! I feel almost 90% back to normal now after my knee replacement! Your channel has inspired me! I have a planned trip, with my son, to go to the Tokyo Ramen Festival in Oct for 7 days. Maybe Spain in January for a month or two? And then a S.African Safari in September with my sister-in-law. It’s been a long two year recovery and I’m ready to go! 😄

[@ThisIsOurRetirement]

@@lisajel52 Sounds wonderful Lisa we wish you happy travels Cheers 🌺🍷🤗

[@jacquibrooks7059]

Another great video both. Have you thought about a few days exploring theSilver Coast, can highly recommend the beach resorts of Foz da Arelho and San Martinhoe do Porto, both stunning. There is also the Obidos lagoon and the walled castle town of Obidos and of course Nazare with its huge surfing waves. We moved here permanently last August and can highly recommend this part of Portugal.

[@ThisIsOurRetirement]

Great suggestion! we would like to explore the Silver Coast Jacqui and it sounds like have made it your home 🏡 now which is great hope you have a wonderful week Cheers 🍷🇵🇹🇨🇦🙂

[@pault1839]

thank you for walking us through the options, love your videos! Another option for Euros and paying for things is the AC Conversion card through CIBC - it's a pre-paid debit card you can load different funds, including the Euro, and use it like a debit card on your trip so you don't need to go to the bank or carry cash! It's simple to purchase your foreign funds online to load the card anytime (like now when it's low). Any amount remaining on the card you keep until your next trip!

[@ThisIsOurRetirement]

Thanks Paul that sounds like a great option we will check it out, someone also said a prepaid visa from CIBC. Thanks for watching.

[@YYZWanderers]

We are also newly retired also from Ontario and it’s so much fun deciding what our travel plans will be. This winter, we spent a month in Patagonia to test being away and loved it! Doing initial research about Portugal now for next winter. This video was helpful. Subscribed!

[@ThisIsOurRetirement]

That is awesome! we do love visiting Portugal 🇵🇹 over Winter, and congratulations on your retirement 🥳glad you enjoy our channel Happy Canada 🇨🇦 Day Cheers 🍷🇨🇦🌺🙂🍁

[@elizabethpiekut4730]

This video was very good ,a lot of useful information for someone that never been to Portugal and I might just consider it this coming winter. Thank you so much and just want to tell you I really do enjoy watching you , like content of it and you are such a nice couple , you it’s so relaxing and enjoyable to watch you , really .Good luck to you both.

[@ThisIsOurRetirement]

Glad it was helpful! we appreciate your support and glad you enjoy our channel Elizabeth Cheers 🍷🇵🇹🇨🇦🌺

[@yolandeking336]

Happy Weekend Norm & Tina, I am heading to Albufeira for the winter. Happy to get out of TO cold winter, for 3 months. Thanks for all the tips, I found an apartment with everything included for a very good price, 5 mins from old town and Supermarkets. I love your videos. Enjoy your weekend. 🍷Cheers.

[@ThisIsOurRetirement]

We hope you have a great visit

[@yolandeking336]

@@ThisIsOurRetirement 🥰

[@REVNUMANEWBERN]

Y'all would make excellent tour guides, wish I could get my wife out of Florida

[@ThisIsOurRetirement]

Maybe one day! not sure of the tour guides , but hopefully your wife might consider some new places as Portugal 🇵🇹 is wonderful Cheers 🍷🇺🇸🇨🇦🌺

[@bearders22]

My favourite drink - Licor Beirão. I love the way you pronounced it ie Beario rather than Bearow!!

[@ThisIsOurRetirement]

It is delicious 😋🍷🇵🇹🇨🇦🌺

[@bearders22]

@@ThisIsOurRetirement We have a holiday home in Lagos. If you haven't decided on your winter break yet, I really recommend you give it a try

[@ThisIsOurRetirement]

Thanks we have visited there and enjoyed it , we are also looking at Armacao de Pera , sometimes finding a monthly deal is the problem . How many months a year can you visit ?

[@bearders22]

@@ThisIsOurRetirement Brits are restricted to 90 days in any 180 days which applies to all of the EU. Brexit has made travel more difficult for us. My Dad was Dutch so I could get an EU passport if I wanted to

[@bearders22]

Carvoeiro is also one of my favourite places but it may be too small for a 3 month trip?

[@MariaAlmeida-np3oi]

Love your channel. I just returned from Algarve yesterday. The weather was great, things are all opening up again. We stayed in Loule, not a beach town but very authentic Portuguese. Love getting my coffee, walking around the the town and then heading to the beach for a nice relaxing afternoon.

[@ThisIsOurRetirement]

That is awesome! sounds like a lovely trip Maria, we have visited Loule , a lovely little town Cheers 🍷🇵🇹🇨🇦🙂

[@shannonmann5501]

We live in Lagos and are moving to Luz for the 3 summer months. Love watching your videos!

[@ThisIsOurRetirement]

That sounds cool 😎 we have visited both places and liked both did you retire to Portugal 🇵🇹 🤔Shannon have a wonderful weekend Cheers 🌺🇵🇹🇨🇦🍷

[@shannonmann5501]

@@ThisIsOurRetirement We are Australians stuck in Europe since 2020. I am originally from the West Coast of Canada. We needed to leave Rome, Italy so Portugal was somewhere warm for us. We love it here. Yes we have retired. Enjoy your summer and we may run into you in the Algarve this winter!

[@ThisIsOurRetirement]

@@shannonmann5501 Wow so you got stuck from the start of Covid Yikes 😱, just curious how you manage with the visa situation as we can only visit for 90 days at a time 🤔 Would be fun to bump in to you 🍷

[@shannonmann5501]

@@ThisIsOurRetirement we had to apply for a temporary visa 😎

[@ThisIsOurRetirement]

@@shannonmann5501 Great way to see Portugal 🇵🇹 we thought that Australia 🇦🇺 had opened up for everyone to go back home, do you have a time limit in Portugal 🤔

[@chasingadeline]

That looks like some yummy food. Your guises KZbin channel is doing awesome. Congratulations🎉

[@ThisIsOurRetirement]

Thank you so much 🤗 have a wonderful weekend Cheers 🍷🌺🙂

[@therechargeroom8646]

Great idea to plan ahead for your winter vacation.

[@ThisIsOurRetirement]

Definitely! we can’t wait to be back there , thanks for watching Cheers 🍷🇵🇹🇨🇦🌺

[@therechargeroom8646]

Enjoy your show every week. I have a feeling we don't live too far from you so we can identify with many of your day trips. Love the Canadian content as well.

[@ThisIsOurRetirement]

Thanks we appreciate your support Cheers 🍷🌺🇨🇦

[@jaf7765]

Glad to hear that you are going to Portugal this winter, seems like forever. We too will be going to Portugal this winter but just for two months, February and March. I haven’t started researching yet because we are going to Vancouver Island this summer and Norway this fall so working on them first. We are so happy to be traveling again.

[@ThisIsOurRetirement]

Your plans sound wonderful we wish you all the best everyone says we should visit Vancouver Island in the summer Cheers 🍷🇵🇹🇨🇦🌺

[@monalisa233]

Thanks!

[@ThisIsOurRetirement]

Thanks so much Monalisa!

[@karryhuston1321]

Congratulations love your Chanel!

[@ThisIsOurRetirement]

Thank you so much! have a great weekend Karry Cheers 🍷🇵🇹🇨🇦🌺

[@richardc488]

We are going to Italy for a month

[@ThisIsOurRetirement]

Sounds great Richard enjoy your trip Cheers 🍷 🇮🇹 🇨🇦🇵🇹🙂

[@janebaldock7995]

HI Norm and Tina. Thanks for another informative and optimistic video of all things Portuguese. As I stay in a house in Tavira for 3 months of winter( or more, hopefully in 2023) I was advised to explore Olhão in Eastern Algarve, just east of Faro. It's a different landscape to Western Algarve, has wonderful Saturday markets on the waterfront with the older part of town situated behind the seafront towards the hills. Just a suggestion of somewhere different. If you're going, might try to connect in person when I'm staying in Tavira next Jan- March 2023. Apparently extending Shengen visa to + 60 days from 90 limit is OK if you have booked an appointment at local SEF, after arriving at your residence in Portugal. If the date of appointment is AFTER the 90 days it's apparently no problem. SEF simply wants proof that you are willing to pay extension fee and patiently wait in line for the slow moving Portuguese bureaucracy! Admittedly staying this year from mid Jan- mid April, I felt as if I'd woken up from a deep sleep when I arrived. I was free to walk in the streets without boots and heavy coat, enjoy outdoor café culture and, as always, the kind sociability of the Portuguese people. These past two winters of lockdowns, snow storms and enforced hibernation seemed another world away. Boas viagens. Jane

[@ThisIsOurRetirement]

What you have said Jane is how we feel it’s been a very hard two years we are glad you had a good visit this year . We have to get going to travelling again , we might try the staying longer this year are you thinking of doing that too . We have also heard that Olhao is lovely we stopped at a shopping centre there on our way to Spain but didn’t go to the town . Lovely to hear from you hope you are keeping well Cheers Happy Portugal 🇵🇹 day Tomorrow Cheers 🍷🇵🇹🇨🇦🌺

[@janebaldock7995]

Agree that 4 or more months is very attractive. I’m planning do that and trying to contact Portuguese consulate for verification that all will be fine. When I get through to a live person will let you know. It was significantly warmer by April and would prefer to stay until end of that month; paying CRA taxes owed online! Happy Portugal Day 🇵🇹 🎉🍷👍

[@ThisIsOurRetirement]

Sounds great let us know how you get on , we were wondering if we did that how do we book the return flight ✈️ for 4 months 🤔 if they don’t let us stay we just have to change the flight 🤔what are your thoughts on that 🌺

[@ronnie9187]

Nice Norm and Tina that you are coming back to the old continent. Notice that most cars in Portugal have manual transmission which means that automatic cars are in short supply and therefore are more expensive to hire,. And secondly because of Corona the demand for rental cars is outpacing the supply of available vehicles, so rental car prices have increased. Going off saison may be extra beneficial this and next years. Positive is also that the Euro becomes cheaper, I noticed it meself living in Switzerland that has still its own currency, but it is also true for the Canadian and US dollar. Temperatures of 15-20 degrees are perfect for active outdoor life. It is nice to escape the cold Canadian winter and enjoy spring two times in a row

[@ThisIsOurRetirement]

Yes Ronnie we know about the rental car transmission, we have included it previous videos but forgot to include it, thanks for reminding us. Portugal is nice because of the weather, history and food, bonus no crowds! Florida has become very expensive so it feels better coming to Portugal or Spain. Thanks for a great comment.

[@upcycledcopycat8389]

Looking forward to Albufeira mid March. Our Airbnb booked couple months ago is in...I've just found out recently.. An area called LEGOLAND at the marina. Hope it's a good one.... Flying out of Calgary to amsterdam on Westjet just before the end of their season. So cheap flight for us. Wootwoot

[@ThisIsOurRetirement]

Sounds great! we aren’t familiar with that area but the Marina is very nice hope you have a great time Cheers 🎄🍷🇵🇹🇨🇦

[@Platypusfuss]

When I was working in Portugal years ago my Portuguse colleagues told me the inside joke is TAP means Take Another Plane

[@ThisIsOurRetirement]

We have had great fights with TAP especially when we paid for the upgrade to First Class ✈️ Cheers 🇨🇦☕️🇵🇹🇺🇸

[@silchan3196]

Good Morning Tina and Norm- I have been looking forward to your video on Portugal. I plan to go there early next year. I am hoping to go for a month or two . I am afraid of renting a car in case I bang it up. Train or bus would be my best option. thanks for all the information

[@ThisIsOurRetirement]

You are very welcome we hope you have a great stay Sil Cheers 🍷🇵🇹🇨🇦🌺

[@peacecountrycraftsmen7574]

We very much enjoy your informative videos on the Algarve. My husband and I are planning a months stay this Feb 2023. Although we are from the northern part of Canada, we are concerned the winter month there may be very damp and cool or possibly very windy?. What did you experience? Also of the 3 areas, Albufeira, Quartereira, and Portimao, which would you recommend? We are an older couple, not wanting a whole lot of crowds, but do want to explore the historical sights, with a decent amount of restaurants and pubs available. Can you also tell me which areas within these 3 towns you stayed in? Keep up the great videos!

[@ThisIsOurRetirement]

It is the rainy season but we have only experienced a few days rain at anyone time, it can be cool in the evening and early mornings. It’s windy the further west you go like Lagos. We stayed in Albufeira near the Albufeira shopping Center. Albufeira is hilly getting to the old town. Quarteira has a flat long promenade with plenty of restaurants. We also like Armacao de Pera, a little smaller than Quarteira and some interesting old buildings (fort). Best of luck and enjoy.

[@lobstahchowdah8920]

Wonderful to learn about your upcoming travel plans. Can’t wait to start making our own plans again! The Algarve is certainly on our list, thanks to all of your previous videos.

[@ThisIsOurRetirement]

That’s great glad you enjoy our videos Cheers 🍷🇵🇹🇨🇦🌺

[@jimbertrand2499]

I found that Interact fees are expensive. I've used prepaid Visa cards from CIBC attached to my bank account very cost effective.

[@ThisIsOurRetirement]

Hi Jim, thanks for the info we will check out the pre paid credit cards.

[@gerbie71r66]

Love your videos Tina and Norm, I will be off to the Algarve in 2 weeks for vacation and possible scouting locations for my retirement in 9 years, Love all the retirement tips especially for Canadians

[@ThisIsOurRetirement]

Sounds great! have a wonderful trip Cheers 🍷🇵🇹🇨🇦🌺

[@300rivers7]

Super helpful. Can't wait to get there.

[@ThisIsOurRetirement]

Glad it was helpful! we can’t wait to get back there either have a wonderful weekend Cheers 🍷🇵🇹🇨🇦🌺

[@whirltraveller1350]

Great that you are returning to travel. After two years of stagnation, we did a month in Puerto Morelos last November/December and have just returned days ago from a month in Belgium, Germany, Luxembourg and France. It is a wonderful feeling so we wish you a great time in Portugal. We plan to be there this September.

[@ThisIsOurRetirement]

Sounds great! you are a little ahead of us but we will be back to travelling and Portugal 🇵🇹 and looking forward to it Cheers 🍷🇵🇹🇨🇦🌺

[@topgun4499]

One of the most informative video out there, u answered some if my questions that I couldn’t find answers to on any other videos, Thank you so much Can you recommend any 30 day place in or around Albufera for stay going down in April-May 2023

[@ThisIsOurRetirement]

Things have changed a lot since Covid on our last visit we stayed at The Hotel Luna Solaqua for 30 days it was very nice , also stayed at Prestige Properties good luck Cheers 🍷🇵🇹🇨🇦🙂✈️

[@topgun4499]

@@ThisIsOurRetirement Thank you so much!!!

[@selwynbullock8994]

Not entirely certain about Albufeira as a base. We were there last November and were a bit disappointed. We seemed to be for ever passing bars showing English football games on giant screens sometimes at full volume. We will be returning next January to Alvor which will be quieter, but is a really pretty place with a lovely beach. Otherwise, we like the marina complex at Vilamoura or a short walk away to stay in Quarteira. Also Praia da Rocha at Portimao would be a good base. Portimao itself is a reasonable sized town so will still be busy in winter. Olhao near Faro is also really nice. It's on the edge of a lagoon so has the most amazing seafood.

[@ThisIsOurRetirement]

Alvor is beautiful as is Armacao de Pera lovely places very flat and quiet hope you have a great visit , we will be back this Winter can’t wait Cheers 🍷🇵🇹🇨🇦🌺

[@kcfd28]

I really enjoy your channel, but have never commented before. Your video made me research Albufeira all weekend. It looks like a great place in January or February. Unfortunately the flight situation from Seattle is not ideal, but we will continue to research. Most of the other videos I've found are shot during the high season, which looks much too expensive, crowded, and lively for our tastes. Thanks for showing us what it is like in the winter. Keep up the great videos. I look forward to them every week.

[@ThisIsOurRetirement]

Thanks for watching Jim, there are many nicer smaller towns like Lagos, Alvor and Armacao de Pera. Hope it works out for you!

[@JenShea]

Olá Tin and Norm! You must be happy to know you’ll be back soon! Great video, great information! Cheers ~

[@ThisIsOurRetirement]

Hi Jen! We are hoping for this winter. 🇵🇹 Have a nice weekend ☀️

[@Dbs527]

Thank you , great plan getting away for the winter...

[@ThisIsOurRetirement]

Our pleasure! we can’t wait Cheers 🍷🇵🇹🇨🇦🙂

[@Dbs527]

Jan-Mar Is it beach weather and can you take a dip. or is it a bit cooler for that ?

[@ThisIsOurRetirement]

It's beach walk weather sometimes t-shirt other times sweaters, sea is cold but some brave it.

[@davidwelty9763]

What has always surprised me about the Mediterranean region is how relatively chilly winter days are there compared to Southern California, Arizona or Florida. But I imagine if the alternative is a Canadian winter, it would be a definite improvement. I’m in Central Florida and many of my neighbors during the winter months are Canadians.

[@ThisIsOurRetirement]

The Algarve is very spring like weather, Florida is so expensive for rentals it’s not an option anymore. Plus the weather can be too hot. Thanks for sharing your comment David.

[@debbielockhart7762]

Depends where in Canada. Our winters here in Victoria, BC are very mild. It rarely snows here. Our weather is similar to Seattle (but we get less rain than they do).

[@davidwelty9763]

@@debbielockhart7762 sure, but even Seattle winters are much colder and wetter than the places I mentioned.

[@christopherbarker976]

Hi Tina & Norm good to see you both again and I’m pleased you are getting back to normal (whatever that is ) we have friends who are thinking of moving to Portugal and I think we are going back in the Autumn have been out there in September..? Regards Christopher Barker

[@ThisIsOurRetirement]

Hi Christopher we have been to Lisbon and Cascais in August before our transatlantic cruise 🚢 back home, it was very hot as we remember. Are your friends looking to retire there it’s something we wonder if it’s a retirement option too . have a great weekend Cheers 🍷🇵🇹🇨🇦🌺

[@faygallagher8425]

Thanks for another great video. So pleased to hear you are going back to Portugal. We have our Panama cruise in Nov and looking forward to husband becoming Cdn citizen next Feb (depending on ceremony dates) then we are off again. Hope you are enjoying your trailer this weekend. Beautiful and warm x

[@ThisIsOurRetirement]

Hi Fay yes the weather is lovely we are up to the trailer tomorrow and yes we can’t wait to be back in Portugal 🇵🇹 we have missed it these last two years .We are sure you are looking forward to your cruise 🚢 have a wonderful weekend Cheers 🍷🇵🇹🇨🇦🌺

[@phildodd5532]

Excellent, Tina and Norm. We have always done Mexico, Jan. to March, but we may just try Portugal this next year. Very reassuring video and info. Thank you very much ! Stay healthy😀🍉🍓and stay safe.🤠

[@ThisIsOurRetirement]

We are glad you enjoyed it, Portugal 🇵🇹 is great to experience the food and history. If you do decide to visit we hope you have a great time.

[@MrRugbyprop1]

It will be interesting to see how you find the Algarve after Covid. We were in Lisbon and Madeira recently and seems like they are pinching pennies after Covid. Service was as good and we were served stale baked goods, which is typically not heard of in Portugal.

[@ThisIsOurRetirement]

Sorry to hear that someone told us a lot of bars and restaurants in Alvor haven’t opened this year , guess we might see lots of changes after countries being closed to tourists for a couple of years Cheers 🍷🇵🇹🇨🇦🍺

[@ron091]

Finally got an apartment in Lagos and travel on TAP from Toronto arranged for next Feb-Mar. Rentals have gone up several hundred euros this coming winter due to "excessive increases" in utilities, probably due to Russian gas shortages and other electricity increases. Landlord said for several apartment rentals last winter the utility costs were 300 euros monthly. So they had no choice but to raise rents this year. That's understandable so we bit the bullet and paid the new cost but only after ensuring all utilities are included. Hopefully no surprises on the COVID mutation front to ruin an otherwise brilliant plan.

[@ThisIsOurRetirement]

Thanks for sharing Ron wow 😱that’s a huge increase for utilities just curious if you don’t mind sharing what price are you paying now to include utilities 🤔we also noticed ✈️ flights have gone up we saw around $1100 which is a lot more . Hope you have a great week Cheers 🌺😎🍷

[@PlanetImo]

My pre-retirment Portugal staying intention is during Novemeber and February. Both low season and low cost and also, those are two months that I rarely work, as my work is seasonal. I just need to wait until my daughter is old enough to leave in the UK for that!

[@ThisIsOurRetirement]

Sounds like a great plan have a wonderful week Cheers 🍷🇵🇹🤗

[@chantaledaudelin]

This is great specific information very nice Thank you so much and enjoy your time wherever you might be at the moment.

[@ThisIsOurRetirement]

Thanks for watching!

[@arifaghaffar3056]

Thanks for your great information you provide for retirees. I watch your videos and got interested in Portugal. Want to go in summer. Can u tell us few places we should visit for historical experience not beach life. Thanks

[@ThisIsOurRetirement]

Fatima, Lisbon, Porto and Northern Portugal might be a starting point, good luck.

[@arifaghaffar3056]

@@ThisIsOurRetirement thanks for the reply.

[@rfmckean]

A couple of questions: How soon would you start planning; is there better air fares or hotel offer now or is this too soon? What about health insurance. Do you need a special drivers license? Why not stay in Faro? What about airBNB?

[@rfmckean]

also electricity: cost and weird plugs. I assure my devices chargers won't work.

[@ThisIsOurRetirement]

Never too early to start planning we always have travel insurance it’s a good idea to get a international driving license Faro is a bit big we like further out you do have to watch the cost of hydro 🤔🤔Cheers 🍷🇵🇹🌺🇨🇦

[@ThisIsOurRetirement]

Electricity is expensive try to get it included Cheers 🍷🇵🇹🇨🇦🌺

[@markcooke8269]

Really useful for those travelling. You guys are always spot on. Glad that you are going back to the Algarve. 🇵🇹🇵🇹🇵🇹

[@ThisIsOurRetirement]

Hi Mark, Thanks for watching we appreciate it 🇵🇹

[@danielnascimento9961]

Hi both. I'm from the island of Madeira and would love to see you guys try one winter in Madeira. You guys will love it.

[@ThisIsOurRetirement]

Thanks for the idea we were there briefly on a cruise 🚢 would like to go back Cheers 🍷🌺🙂

[@stephenjarzombek2903]

The KZbin autocaptioning function mistranslated Tina's comment at the start of the video as "Hey Norm, you look amazing in your burial hat."

[@ThisIsOurRetirement]

That is too Funny Stephen we just can’t get good help these days LOL 😂😂 thanks for watching Cheers 🍷🌺🇵🇹🇨🇦

[@lorrainethomson9850]

Please can you organize a get together for all of us who will be down on that coast next winter?! That would be a lovely thing to do! ❤️

[@ThisIsOurRetirement]

That's a great idea! we will think on this one Lorraine Cheers 🍷🇵🇹🇨🇦🌺

[@johnreilly8131]

Brilliant idea I don't think you guys have to worry about buying the drinks🍷🍺

[@ThisIsOurRetirement]

@@johnreilly8131 Thanks for the idea 🍷🇵🇹🇨🇦

[@aliceoconnor7191]

What a fab find guys... This video has been great for me as I'm so undecided how to spending time in Portugal. Coming from UK , I'm now a 'non EU passport holder' so the 90 day rule will apply to me. I was wondering what winter would be like for a good value visit, I'm excited now to get into Portuguese life 🇵🇹 Thanks for this info... I'm now a follower 👍

[@ThisIsOurRetirement]

Thanks for watching Alice yes we are the same 90 day rule but even that is wonderful, it’s a great time to be in Portugal 🇵🇹 over the winter months Cheers 🍷🇵🇹🇨🇦🌺

[@pkw5121]

@@ThisIsOurRetirement didn't you suggest a way to stay for 6 months - if you apply for Schengen visa, arrive in Europe, travel a bit there then come to Portugal and apply for extension? which YOuTube video did you cover this - i LOVE your videos - EXCELLENT stuff always!

[@ThisIsOurRetirement]

@@pkw5121 Yes we did called Best Strategy Long stay in Portugal about 9 months ago hope that helps Cheers 🍷🇵🇹🇨🇦😎

[@RetiredLovingIt]

Good to hear you guys are going back this winter! Great tips 🤗

[@ThisIsOurRetirement]

Yes! Thank you! hope you are both well have a wonderful weekend Cheers 🍷🇺🇸🇨🇦🌺

[@desertdweller8520]

Keep 'em coming! Love your down to earth videos.

[@ThisIsOurRetirement]

Glad you like them! enjoy your weekend Cheers 🍷🇵🇹🇨🇦🌺

[@cheryls2252]

FYI… Air Transat flies direct non stop to Faro.. departs Toronto on Tuesdays and returns from Faro on Wednesdays

[@ThisIsOurRetirement]

We have flown it twice, they alter the starting point in the year

[@cheryls2252]

@@ThisIsOurRetirement We just noticed that in this video you said there were no direct flights....but then we saw another of your videos and you did mention TS. We're going Jan 1 to March 31 2024, and due to the fact TS only departs Tuesdays and returns Wednesdays, we decided to fly TAP. We would love to meet up with the two of you for a chat and a glass of vino while we're there...if you are agreeable, perhaps we could send info via Messenger. Cheers!

[@ThisIsOurRetirement]

To our knowledge you can’t book that far ahead to 2024 , normally it’s only about 6 months ahead you can book . Air Transat does direct flights but only certain months not all year round hence the fact we have flown with TAP . Have a great weekend Cheers 🍷🇵🇹🇨🇦😎

[@cheryls2252]

My mistake..we’re going in 2023. Sorry about that

[@margaret2239]

We go by Air Transat.

[@ThisIsOurRetirement]

We have too as well as TAP Air Portugal

[@frenchfan1278]

So interesting and informative, thank you

[@ThisIsOurRetirement]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@fredgolland8994]

Hi there Tina and Norm! Fred and Rhona Golland here in beautiful BC... love your videos! My wife and I will be returning to Portugal this December until February in Albufeira. We'd would love to meet up with you if you're around for a drink/coffee etc... please let us know if you'll be in the Algarve....cheers!

[@ThisIsOurRetirement]

Sounds great! we are hoping to be there this Winter 🥶 so if it works would love to meet up Cheers 🍷🇵🇹🇨🇦🌺

[@desertdweller8520]

Maybe I'll met you in the Algarve!

[@ThisIsOurRetirement]

Maybe it’s a small world

[@cathybildson-cardoso6485]

Hi Tina and Norm hope you are having a great weekend. So happy for you that you will be going to Portugal this winter. It sure is a beautiful country. My husband and I are looking forward to going back there in the next year or two. Most likely the Algarve. Have a good week. Will be watching next Saturday as usual. Take care - Cheers 🍻 🌞

[@ThisIsOurRetirement]

Glad you enjoyed it Cathy and we hope you visit the Algarve it’s lovely have a wonderful weekend Cheers 🍷🇨🇦🇵🇹🌺

[@jimwulstan8592]

Hi T&N. The best part of a Winter escape is looking at the weather report back home. After more than two years of the C word we are looking forward to going anywhere at all. Portugal is a bit out of range, so it will be Northern Queensland for us, looking forward to plenty of rare steaks with wonderfull Barossa Valley red wines, and maybe a little bit of exercise to help keep the old ticker going. Still waiting for Norm’s Lynard Skynard T shirt. Our new/old moto is; we may be square but we are still a-round. Your videos are the best, keep on keeping on.

[@ThisIsOurRetirement]

Thanks so much Jim we love your new motto! and yes when you are somewhere warm and see snow ⛄️ back home it feels good Cheers 🍷🇦🇺🇨🇦🙂

[@nathalienurse3336]

Love both of you, super informative going back again this Sept/Oct. wish I could stay longer but maybe next year……..🤗🇨🇦

[@ThisIsOurRetirement]

That's great Nathalie, Have a great time 💕🇵🇹

[@iany2448]

Very practical travel tips! Thanks for sharing.

[@ThisIsOurRetirement]

Your welcome thanks for watching Ian Cheers 🍷🇵🇹🇨🇦🌺

[@stevanharrison]

Another informative video

[@ThisIsOurRetirement]

Glad you think so! enjoy your weekend Stevan Cheers 🍷🇵🇹🇨🇦🌺

[@garyroberts3859]

Hi, I found your video very helpful and thought I’d ask more advice. I’m coming to Portugal and Spain in January/February I’ll arrive in Portugal from Seville to the Algarve’s, before going to Lisbon . My first time in Portugal…which towns would you recommend in the Algarve’s . I’m an elderly artist so the architecture and arts are what interest me most. And any other towns between the Algarve’s and Lisbon I could consider…thank you in anticipation.

[@ThisIsOurRetirement]

The towns are so different from beach focused to going inland, history in Lagos and Silves are very nice. Good luck.

[@peacecountrycraftsmen7574]

Thanks again for your great videos. Can you tell me how much a one way taxi ride is from the Faro airport to Albufeira for 2 people?

[@ThisIsOurRetirement]

We don't know, we always drive a rental car.

[@PaulaJoW]

Congratulations on 50K!

[@ThisIsOurRetirement]

Thank you so much 😀 we are thrilled to have achieved 50K 🥳Cheers 🍷🌺🙂

[@cann9155]

Always great content. 👌🏾❤ Thx Norm & Tina!

[@ThisIsOurRetirement]

Thanks for watching!💕

[@paulathomas7731]

You should try visiting Lisbon and surrounding area … very beautiful ..

[@ThisIsOurRetirement]

We have been to Lisbon and Cascais Paula both beautiful, enjoy your weekend Cheers 🍷🇵🇹🇨🇦🌺

[@Carolinapetroska]

The only thing you really need to know is that winters are cold in Portugal and houses/apartments are not well isolated which means cold inside and very high electricity bills !!!

[@ThisIsOurRetirement]

Thanks for sharing Sophie we usually get all utilities included Cheers 🍷🇵🇹🇨🇦

[@SimonEllwood]

Enjoy Gibraltar, with the cheeky Barbary Apes, Marks and Spencers, and Red Call Boxes.

[@ThisIsOurRetirement]

Maybe not going too close to the apes 🦧 LOL 😂Cheers 🍷🦧🌺