The Real Reason Americans Are Leaving Portugal: Has the Dream Soured?

[@OurRichJourney]

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[@Gullvivas]

Americans are lieving Europe bc they found out it is not normal to have many guns in their homes?

[@jairushendley]

As an American, I find that many times when we move a broad, we don't adapt to the culture. We want all the benefits of the US and none of the negatives of the new country. Life doesn't work that way. To enjoy a new country, you really need to learn the language and the culture. Also, we can complain about bureaucracy etc...but at the same time the US also has it. We just didn't have to experience it, because we were born there. Also, I really dislike the term expats. If we leave US and go to a new country, we are immigrants. The glory days of being special because we are American are over. We have to come to grips with that. If we want to be accepted in a new country, we have to play by there rules...

[@joseh3564]

Exactly, and the same goes for those coming to live in the USA.

[@beyourself2444]

Exactly,why do Europeans and American think they're expats but anyone not from those groups are inmigrants?

[@marianhunt8899]

Well said.

[@geertstroy]

You fully get it!

[@wildseifen]

Thank you for that answer. Also take the positives of the other country btw. Regards from Austria, Hedi

[@victordossantos1113]

I'm a Portuguese/South African currently living between the Netherlands and South Africa. Portugal is a much softer landing than say the Netherlands. People are way more friendly and accepting of foreigners in Portugal. But culture is always different wherever you go, so learning the language and culture is a must to find some connection. If you're straight out of say the US, then avoid the rural areas, you'll be lost there. If you're looking for good work opportunities and a bump-up in your career then the Netherlands is a great European destination for that. Portugal is an extremely safe and child-centred society. If you are looking for good weather, cheap accommodation and beautiful landscapes then South Africa is your place, but safety and basic services are hugely problematic and getting worse. So hey, in my view pick-your-poisin as there is no perfect place on this planet. Practice humility and gratitude and that will take you far anywhere you go. Muito obrigado e bem apresentado!

[@ninobk196]

South Africa is also very far and even if one wants to travel "within" Africa, it is expensive and one has to hop and skip a lot just to go to a neighboring country. Africa is HUGE and if you like traveling to Europe, Asia, etc just getting out of Africa is at least 7 hours. It is indeed beautiful but not "travel friendly". And the crime is off the charts!

[@jeffScotty]

South Africa!!! what…

[@tanicouture]

I definitely want to live in 1 of the 3 places you listed!

[@jayclarke6671]

'S Africa' you must be joking. Yea if you don't mind widespread violent crime and regular blackouts which just makes it more dangerous, then absolutely, head to SA! 'Affordable housing in Portugal, lol. I've been based in Spain from California since the 90s and had thought about moving to Portugal during the upcoming summer months. But minimum rents for a basic studio is 1200€+ a month during summer, and to rent a room in a shared home is 500+ a month. I'm 55, I don't want to share with others at my age being constantly reminded that I'm over the hill!

[@thandisilec835]

So you’re South African of Portuguese descent; there are many such people here in South Africa. Been here for centuries. One of my high school friend’s family in Pretoria are originally from a place called Madeira. Apparently her great great grand parents over 2 centuries ago came to South Africa and been here ever since

[@chenoweezi]

People don't understand some of these challenges are the same in the US as a foreigner entering....You can't do anything without an SSN but you need a phone, bank account, drivers license etc. You have to roll with the punches, understand and accept the things you have no control over. Pick your battles! Expats always congregate to come and complain about the same topics, every place always has good and bad and if you don't stop to smell the roses you will regret it. Live in the moment, be patient and think about why you left your country of residence.

[@NankitaBR]

Exactly! People forget that expats are immigrants too, the difference in words is just the point of reference. To the country you're originally from you're an expat, to the country you went into you're an immigrant, doesn't matter where you came from or for how long you plan to stay in the new country. And that comes with all the problems that immigrants have, so you have to be prepared to face adversities before moving to another country.

[@AbuFawzan-dl5ww]

😊😊 thank you life in every city has it own challenges so one have be super prepared before traveling to new destinations

[@saimaleon7115]

Somehow the millions pouring into the US illegally are able to do all these things.

[@tripperm10011972]

I originally was going to retire to Portugal, but chose France instead. I preferred the language and being closer to the rest of Europe. Now, after being in France for the last five months, I've decided to head back to the USA. For me, it is the beurocracy and just how difficult it is to get anything done. I knew this going in, but knowing something and living it are two different things.

[@jimi94u]

Thanks for sharing this. Are you a "true" retiree ? i.e. visiting the country, making new friends, etc... Or do you have a small side business going on ?

[@LisaSoulLevelHealing]

Lol, n'est pas possible is commonly said lol.

[@teenatravelsabroad]

Hi, I have traveled all over Europe and there are so many other great places in Europe to live as an American. Croatia, Czechia, Austria, Spain, Poland and many more. Portugal is also too far from the other EU Countries if you like traveling by train, bus or car. Why not try another Country before going back to the US?

[@agl5132]

Have you thought of crossing up into the UK or Ireland as a homebase and exploring neighboring countries from there?

[@matthewsmith2362]

Just curious what were you trying to have done ? Construction stuff?

[@ruinunes8251]

One very important point to remember is, wherever country you go, respect the country, the culture and the people. If you do all these 3 things you most certainly will be just fine.

[@saintpreferred9223]

Not with a 40% tax rate.....ridiculous.

[@SausageandWine]

@@saintpreferred9223tax rate in France for capital gains, dividends etc. Are between 30-40% so …

[@Here4TheHeckOfIt]

Spot on

[@evelynniemeyer1119]

and learn the language.

[@paulblueosyter1472]

Except illegal immigrants that come there in the USA

[@ScottBrooker-oh5ym]

Expat 17 years now. I rarely intermingle with other expats and thats the secret to my success!

[@geertstroy]

...immigrant 17 years......

[@lynnm6413]

Maybe you could start calling yourself a happily integrated immigrant then…ex-pat is a dishonest word

[@andreb.thomas5926]

Exactly. Chao. Retired Vietnam era veteran, ex Detroiter, expatriate currently living in México and Colombia.

[@hughleocullen9497]

Totally agree

[@mwhite1474]

I do not like the entitled attitude of many expats. That would not be everyone, but too many behave badly and give the rest of us an undeserved bad reputation.

[@rallealyt]

The main question should be: Why are americans leaving the US...?

[@ChatGPT1111]

There's already a quadrillion videos on that 😂😂😂

[@ThePsychicGodfather]

That’s an easy answer. It never can compare to the USA 🇺🇸!!

[@ohioskane363]

Portugal is safer.

[@maryreilly5092]

Crime, cost and China has purchased the most important industries and farm land here in the U.S.

[@EarlCo]

We know the answer. It started in 2016.

[@JoelGrant-ie4ly]

You are the perfect expat. Seriously, any immigrant that's willing to work hard, learn the customs and culture and language adds to the society that they're adopting. I hope for continued success for you and your family.

[@anthonybutler3157]

Good video. Came here for retirement in 2018. Bought a small house in a village and have been there for 6 years. We wanted a quieter life after 30 plus years in nyc. We have been welcomed. All the problems you mentioned are real but your insight into the bad effects of negativity is spot on. One has to move to portugal and embrace it. My wife and I have found the adventure of adopting a new homeland invigorating and satisfying.

[@Seabasshunting]

All the best to you guys! 👍

[@monicabastardo6898]

😊

[@lzrd8460]

I agree wholeheartedly! Embrace the new country, see it as an adventure. So many Americans never leave their country and I often think this is a reason why Americans are so negative about foreigners. Being a tourist is not the same thing as being a traveler, going on a tour is not the way to experience other cultures and lifestyles. Living, even for just a few years, in other countries is an education of its own! All the wonderful ppl I have met over my travels and living in Europe for decades now has been so worth it.

[@luongo7886]

I am Vietnamese living in America and I LOVE Portugal!!! I LOVE the warm, friendly Portuguese people, culture, language, history, DELICIOUS FOOD and society. I want to live among one of the nicest peoples in the world!! VIVA PORTUGAL!!! 😍🥰

[@neliaferreira1492]

Agree

[@luciatheron1621]

Thank you for your appreciation of Portuguese culture and it's people. ❤Peace and goodwill to you.

[@charliesalema]

Portuguese people also love Vietnamese culture, at least me and my family did like most part of that same area of Asia very kind people very humble and lots of friendly people that love children

[@kenandbarbie-b6c]

Good time for you to move!

[@cristinapita5913]

Same back at you. I love most Asian countries (still missing a lot of them but loved all that I have visited). The weather is great. Culture is amazing. The food is so yummy.. and the temperature of the water is heaven (the sea is too cold in Portugal). A Portuguese fan of Asia.

[@mariadaponte2440]

thank you for the post. I am originally from the Azores, came to the US back in 1971 as a very little girl. US Citizen, have loved growing up in the States, but now am going to move back to Portugal for retirement. I want a different quality of life and we find it in Portugal.

[@SophiasOasis]

Portugal is a country that we are considering moving to after retirement. 😊

[@SwissMiss138]

Beautiful! I’m Azorean Portuguese too (grandmother came to US as a baby) but my dad never leaned Portuguese 😢sadly. Im an expat in Switzerland for last 10 years and learning German has been tough! But kids are going through citizenship process now. I’m next this fall! Enjoy relocating back to your homeland!

[@Bran08Eman]

Met many people who returned back to their homeland after decades of absence. The place and mentality greatly changed with the times. Romantic notions from our childhood are just that. It will be an emotional roller coaster. Happy Retirement!

[@carlosdores2036]

Faz muito bem, os Açores são o paraíso na terra.👏👏👏

[@JuanBarberis]

As I understand it, the # of tourists and the # of new residents has increased rapidly over the last couple of years. Hopefully - São Miguel will not be ruined culturally and economically like Hawaii and Puerto Rico. What are you seeing, and what do you think will happen?

[@marrlena947]

I moved to the Andalucían mountains from Barcelona during lockdowns. Best decision of my life. I'm not leaving. You can keep city life. The beauty, social life and peace is never boring for me. It only gets more interesting. City life is overrated. I go to Granada or Almeria or Madrid and can't wait to get out.

[@37tara]

Never liked Portugal!! Greece is a lot better !!!!!

[@Margi183]

​@@37taraPlease tell us why? ❤

[@eddycarpenter8989]

My parents had a house in Orgiva Spain growing up I used to visit the alpujarras a lot as a child. So many great memories there. Such a beautiful part of Spain

[@francarranza434]

Im thinking about moving retired in Spain too ❤

[@michelehernandez5992]

I think it is essential that those who want to move anywhere should always go and visit a few times. ALWAYS do the homework prior to any major move especially to a different country.

[@LaAerial]

Unfortunately, and perhaps out of desperation, many Americans have NOT being doing the due diligence of visiting a few times first and undoing their expectations.. 😅

[@LisaSoulLevelHealing]

Right. I thought i might like spain....but another country fits me better.

[@agl5132]

Visits aren't enough. A person needs to stay for a few months and really see what it's like. Take a sabbatical from work and try it first.

[@rhill3453]

I agree wholeheartedly. Also inform Urselves about the laws & rights.

[@enrique55455]

I see the same back in Latin America, people watch these KZbin videos then decide to move, the language and culture barrier, the talk about (foreigners) EXPATS communities, half the time they don’t engage with locals and they expect the same on the spot fix like they had back home, I live in Europe but to be honest I’m sick of hearing their bull crap complaints when I’m back home, we didn’t drag you nor imprisoned them so just leave. All I see them doing is making the cost of living high for the locals.

[@livelaughlove4635]

Unfortunately the prices in Portugal have been going up which is making it hard for people who are from there and those of us who were born there and have dreamed of retiring there one day.

[@konraddobson]

It's the same in other European countries. I'm from Belgium and saw a big influx of young Portugese people, along with everyone else. (mostly non-Europeans though) All those people coming in rapidly increased our house prices too, so as a result, a lot of people from Northern Europe with a bit of savings move South in the hopes of ever owning a home. Also, in the North there's a lot more crime as a result of mass immigration. Not politically correct to say, but it is what it is. Portugal is very safe by comparison.

[@TonyHavenMusic]

Same complaints from my friends in Belgium, France and Germany where I’ve lived and also Austria, Italy, Spain, England, Netherlands, Poland, Croatia, Denmark etc etc

[@feliciahawkins4420]

The US is the same way because of COVID it's sad 😔

[@alphacharley5]

Prices are going upwards everywhere!

[@tempest411]

The U.S. is the same because of COVID??? What are you talking about?

[@davidmartinspresents]

Some Americans are leaving Portugal but others are arriving. The ones that arrive unprepared may not stay, the ones that arrive prepared will probably never leave.

[@tombishop2326]

I agree, but it is more to be flexible, able to adjust your plan, you could research PT for 10 years and still do not feel fully prepared, sometime you just have to pack your bags and be flexible!

[@curiouspenguin6887]

Prepared - as in learned the local language as much as they could before moving there.😂

[@jovinathasavoie8018]

Exactly.

[@cdh2328]

Well if the new comers buy from the leavers then a lot of work will have already been done presumably! But the prices will be higher! It’s funny how we don’t learn from the experiences of others. We think we’re different. And perhaps we are!

[@ceoa]

@davidmartinspresents I agree. How can you move overseas without checking everything out before making such a move. Visit, study the laws, the money situation, the towns and cities, the jobs available. 🤷

[@lifeisgoodjg]

This video is spot on. I got to know my favourite part of Portugal over 14 years. Made connections and friends in advance. Moved in 2023 and hitting all the usual issues re bureaucracy, residency card delays etc. But love it here. The people, the beauty, the climate. Nothing in life is permanent but embrace the adventure. Happiness and positivity come from within

[@cherizeaustin0816]

I’m still going but am a senior who will be renting

[@marianhunt8899]

Nobody can be happy when they don't have the basics of life such as food clean water and shelter. Humans physically die without those basics and nobody wants to have children when the prospect of being unable to afford extortionate rents may land them homeless and living in squalor on the streets. Looking within will not meet your very basic physical needs to remain physically alive on this planet.

[@speakeuropeanportuguese]

A lot of the price increases are due to people (expats and digital nomads) coming here and offering 2000€ for a month's rent. In the small town where I live you can't really get anything for less that 1000€ these days. Which is ridiculous, when you consider what the minimum wage is.

[@elisabethdorrer4831]

I agree! These expats wanting a cheaper life are really spoiling affordability for the locals. It is a form of neocolonialism.

[@kurok1tenshi]

Yeah, those 2+ the gold visas are forcing Portuguese ppl out of the Portuguese cities cause the prices for renting are at the min income and higher and the buy prices doubled, in some places tripled, to what it was just 5 years ago...

[@mrsmoore4937]

I bet who you havent met in Lisbon, because I never met one in Barcelona... a parent whos burried a child to violence. We left FL after the Marjorie Stoneman Douglas shooting. My daughter was tired of worrying if her school was next. We moved to Spain and everyone gained a level of personal safety that cant be explained to the average American. No a single person says... be safe or call me when you get home or let us know your ok... we just hug eachother, say "love you, see you next week" and at 0100, walk our separate ways home after a night of rooftop tapas and cava. Really an amazingvfeeling to have your 15yo walk out the door to meet friends at a noodle bar across town, and not be on pins and needles until they come back home. All the USD cant replace our babies. I hope we reach a point where we refuse to raise the next class of kindergarteners who have active shooter drills.

[@marisapollock4703]

This is our #1 reason for looking to leave the US. Everywhere has bureaucracy, education issues, economic issues, etc. but, not many places have the same general lack of safety.

[@bizhope007]

Excellently stated!

[@zm5513]

Immigrants will change that

[@kirathevirgo]

It may sound like an odd question but are you and your family Black? Like is there any outright racism for Black children?

[@committedtothejourney2023]

What part of Spain?

[@sermanojedagil2729]

Leaving Portugal is ok but going back to states? No way

[@jeffreysikesphotography5499]

Compare the crime statistics in US versus most other countries. Also, go to foreign cites and then visit San Francisco. Disgusting

[@savagegamez1674]

Just moved to Hawaii and I love it

[@a.leehilliard4716]

The US is a crime filled hell hole. Cannot wait to leave.

[@romanromanowski9038]

​@@jeffreysikesphotography5499Why not go to Carmel by the Sea ?

[@jamiedavies4545]

@@jeffreysikesphotography5499 Its Jamie Davies I live in England country but I want to move to America country in my independent apartment in America is that possible for me @jeffreysikesphotography5499 my mate?????

[@corbinprydwen4130]

Thank you for making this video as an American who is beyond baffled by this year‘s 2024 results. I’m getting the hell out of here. Portugal seems like heaven. I live in the mountains in the middle of the woods in America. So I think I’ll take the south side of Portugal. Find me an old farm and fix it up❤❤❤

[@pleasebekind9115]

I’ll join you. I’ve been debating for a while but this year’s election results have me packing my bags and booking a flight. My biggest issue: two grown kids on the west coast while I’m on the east coast. It’s workable now, easy flights to see them both, but putting the Atlantic between is a major deterrent. So, I’m trying to figure things out. I’m drawn to France because I love the culture and speak the language but I went to Portugal for the first time and fell in love with the friendly, welcoming people.

[@ahazuda2010]

Thanks for this video. I had a good laugh about the expat groups. I lived in Denmark 20 years ago for two years and I specifically avoided expat groups and had only Danish friends at that time. I understand the soft landing concept but these groups are not always what they are cracked up to be. These groups had people I normally wouldn't have hung out with in the US, so I didn't think being abroad would change that...

[@fizzahraza4926]

How tolerant and accepting are places like Lisbon towards Muslims?

[@LisaSoulLevelHealing]

Right! The expat groups in france suck....i since a lot of racism to be honest, and classism, and the warmth and welcome of the locals has been so amazing. I even get the french pricing on items.

[@14ariel77]

@@fizzahraza4926and how accepting are Muslims towards the culture of the countries they move in??? That’s the real question

[@angelsummers6555]

@@LisaSoulLevelHealing What part of France did you move to?

[@ninaferreira9714]

The world is geting very difficult to live all over

[@Fegga1955]

So true,still trying to figure out where is best.Germany‘s weather awful,Greece seems best till now

[@marilynpeoples5099]

After years of traveling outside the US, I had an attack of homesickness. I was surprised. I never thought it would happen to me.

[@lindalund9621]

Well I like to live in scandinavia/Norway (I also have lived in Denmark) I love it here. Safe. Hubby has cancer but love the healthcare. Living in a small city . Not much happening.

[@MissRed92837]

@@Fegga1955 I’m moving to one of the Balearic Islands and can’t wait to leave the US. I think most European countries are better than the US. You just need to decide what you want. Do you want to live in the country side, in a city, near the beach, ect.

[@JoaoLuis-eh9yl]

Est Europe or North Europe but one day they will become the same ... People don't learn 😮

[@christinedelfino5322]

It’s the same here in Italy, we too are happy and retired in our slice of paradise one hour out of Roma. We too have a great community of expats that surround us. La vita e bella❤

[@SanzL1]

Where are you in Italy? My family is near Rome, and I'm fluent in Italian. Locating there is possible for me.

[@escapeearth2327]

Hello, I’ve been a subscriber for a couple or more years now and I very much appreciate your KZbin channel, I’ve learned a few things and I thank you. I opened my Fidelity account after watching a video of yours showing step by step, and I’m so glad I did. I’m retired and moved to Portugal last April 2023, I’ve been very happy here and at peace! I’d love to meet you in person at a cafe if possible! I live in Lisbon also! ❤

[@rebeccagutierrez1960]

I was thinking of continuing my retirement in Portugal. I did two scouting trips, covering diferent cities. I loved it. But I realized I save MUCH more money staying put in the island of Puerto Rico.

[@kdengo]

But how is the crime in Puerto Rico? I am from Brazil but I do not want to retire there due to the crime. I live in USA but I really want to be closer to the beach.

[@franciscoarroyo7498]

Mas vale malo conocido que bueno por conocer. Yo sigo 50/50 entre dos paises.

[@dmorales1064]

@rebeccagutierrez1960 Wow I'm pretty surprised to hear that. One of my brothers was born and raised in P.R. (I was born in NY) and he left P.R. for better work opportunities. Well he moved to Orlando, worked and retired from Disney. Decided that nothing beats that island charm and way if life so he goes back to P.R. to go house hunting. Sadly after covid, so many US based companies bought up so much land that they drove up the prices of homes in the desirable areas he went looking for. He came right back to Orlando cause he no longer could afford to go back home. Now he went looking for a house, maybe apartments are cheaper? Just surprised to read that someone finds PR more affordable.

[@leito1257]

All is ok long the money last. The problem is if you really get sick and you need a good health care. A friend of my move to Philippines for the same reason. Then he got sick and he spent all his money to cure himself. Finally his family helped to pay for his flight to back home.😢

[@stevenhenry5267]

Pay your taxes. Puerto Rico is getting ripped off by people like you.

[@LisaCulton]

I'm still in Switzerland. I love it! I'm not going anywhere.

[@expresslausanne526]

Switzerland is more reasonable as a country.

[@lbfarfullo]

How do you do with the local language? Hard? Not too bad! Appreciate your comments.

[@Nature-ep5cu]

Beautiful country 😊👍

[@SawSaw-zd1cy]

Lived in Switzerland for seven years. Expensive and closed up.

[@butterfly9274]

Good for visiting not living there😞

[@HerAeolianHarp]

There are two kinds of expats: prepared and unprepared. The prepared have done the requisite cultural and financial research. Some people also treat expat locales as trends. Lisbon and Mexico City today, Prague in the 1990s. Social media presents FOMO scenarios and glamour videos, and too many people fall for those. Your family have made sound choices all along, and that is inspiring to see.

[@wenchefauske6898]

Hope the government set regulations for foreigner to buy real-estate for renting out to other foreigner or arnb. That destroy the whole housing for those who live there. Dont do the same mistake as Spain. I'm not welcomed as a tourist in Barcelona, Mallorca and know it's start on canary Island. Hope to go to Portugal og bli Der om vinteren. Cold winters of snow and - 22 grades C is not god

[@davidbotelho888]

There's no expats. There's migrants

[@tommyd688]

There are two kinds of people.. Ones who can take things in stride and adapt or those that Expect things to meet their expectations..

[@danieldhardman5388]

We visited Porto for one week late Feb-early March and loved it. We are 99.5% sure we will move there upon retirement. BUT, we are reserving final judgment for a few reasons: 1) my GF had never been to Europe. During my 11yrs of active duty AF, I lived in Germany for 6.5yrs and spent 6yrs living amongst the citizens rather than on the bases where I was stationed. So I have a level of understanding about Europe that she will never have. Thus, even considering how much she loved Porto, I am constantly pointing out the cultural differences she will encounter once there for the long term. Like living without a car, the language, local and national customs in addition to many of the things you mention in this video.2) my mom is 92 and next month I am expecting the birth of my 3rd grandchild. We chose Porto for specific reasons. I am coming back to Porto in the fall for a 2-3week stay to explore the areas around the city so w can choose the perfect community for us. I don't buy a pair of sweats on impulse, so we will be careful, thoughtful and rational about the last .5% of our decision. Everyone should be just as intentional. For those listening, the call of Portugal is strong and loud. But choose carefully to avoid regret. Great video, hopefully we get a chance to meet with you during our next trip.

[@TheEGA4421]

I agree with your decisions. I previously decided if I was to leave the states, it would be to Italy. I did my due diligence and researched every aspects of Italy. I am still learning the language (I am beginner-intermediate). The only thing I have not done was to visit! When I came across this channel, A&C threw a monkey wrench in my decision making. My thoughts turned to Portugal. While I have never been to Portugal, I feel one of the main issue of expats leaving is that they do not know/understand the language and/or culture. Expats from the states should now understand what people from other countries arriving in the states are dealing with.

[@fredatlas4396]

Why would you have to be without a car in Portugal

[@jcyork1767]

What's Porto

[@mariagomes9882]

I lived and studied in Porto for 5 years and love many cities in the northern part of Portugal! I went as far as Vidago! Part of my family still lives in Lisbon. Good luck!!!

[@InMyBrz]

PORTO is nice but it's COLD AS HELL, I would never live there full time Go to the coast of Spain, it's nicer and warmer Maybe your GF doesn't want to tell you, she hates cold weather IT'S big negative

[@pauobunyon9791]

Visiting and living are two different things. Homesickness is a real pain too

[@SloMo2723]

So well said! The negativity of others are a killer! Stay away from those people. They bring nothing to the table of life!

[@gemstonegenius]

2020.. Everyone come to Portugal.. 2024: We didn’t expect all yall to really come 😂

[@Roar.]

Well, the combination of two climates does magic. Weather climate and tax climate...

[@tinglestingles]

@@Roar. Unfortunately, winter comes it's cold and damp in Portugal - tax climate is even colder.

[@luvnhappiness]

🤣

[@TheLabossShow]

Amon preaching today, "Since the beginning of time, people have been migrating around the world to find a better life"

[@fernandotereso6825]

I agree completely with your assessment. I still can’t believe how many people come to Portugal and immediately buy a home or bought a home online without ever having come into the country. Take at least a year before buying a house or apartment. I know that, as Americans, we have this need to own where we live but your money is not being “wasted” by renting for a while. Personally, my reason for returning to the US would be missing our grandchildren.

[@TOKYO64DOTCOM]

I feel the same way about living in Japan as Ahmad and Christina’s dad. We love it here. I see expats leaving here for the same reasons mentioned here. What makes things easier for us is we have family here. My wife being from Japan is a huge help when making this adjustment to our new life. Our children fit in being of Japanese descent too as we never let them forget their Japanese heritage too while living in the US.

[@user-pz8cs5dv1z]

I left the US 4.5 years ago for Portugal. I'm not planning to leave this country (yet), but that's always an option in positive way. No country is perfect and yes, there are things that I don't like about Portugal, but I just feel very fortunate to be able to live and experience other country. I know many people who want to do the same but just are not able to due to various reasons. In the future, if I find another country that I'm interested in living, maybe I'll try to move there, but until then, I'll be here with a smile.

[@Tataymuntu]

You re feeding another beast Europe ( they re already killing and doing a lot of harm in Africa with the US.. you will be hugely one day be oppressed mark my words

[@wisu3529]

I’m an expat in Australia. Could never go back to the USA, as broken as it is

[@dananderson47]

Visited Lisbon in April ‘21. It was a bit chilly for me. But I found the Portuguese people to be very friendly and accommodating. Also enjoyed the local bakeries, butcher shops and markets. Beautiful place. But I like a little warmer weather.

[@mariamatias4911]

Algarve ☀️⛱️

[@InMyBrz]

WHO wants to spend your money to move somewhere only to freeze ? FORGET IT

[@antoniobrum7514]

If you cross the river and you look for housing in Montijo or Alcochete, you'll be at 20 mins from Lisbon and houses are great and much cheaper

[@danieldhardman5388]

Excellent advice! I think too often Americans think they have to be in the center. I am purposely looking to live in a place away from the city center so I can find a reasonably affordable place.

[@14ariel77]

You just ruined those places with your words

[@ariananewcombe7737]

​@@14ariel77😂😂

[@yramkouedjin726]

This was me when I relocated here from Finland this January. I was so frustrated I wanted to go back. Rent and bureaucracy annoyed me.

[@curtisalex456]

Hard to believe it has been 5 years already.

[@josimoes3288]

I’m a US expat living in Brazil, small fishing town - love it. Wife is Portuguese citizen, we are considering relocating to Portugal - excited to visit and see what happens.

[@jecoliasjems2529]

Hi, how’s crime in Brazil and cost of living?

[@TiagoRamosVideos]

Fantastic vídeo 👏 as a portuguese that has lived in 3 different cities and that thought about leaving the country and wants to retire early, you got it 100% right 👌

[@roygarza3263]

Hi guys, once again. Another great explanation of normal living in a fantastic place, Portugal. We just returned from our month-long visit to Porto and Lisboa. We enjoyed both cities and they provided us with valuable information we were searching for. We wanted to know if the portuguese lifestyle would improve our health. It did! After the first week I had to cut in half the Rx I was taking. Now that we have returned to the US, I have had to return to the levels of meds I was taking before. I can't explain it but I'm pretty sure it's the food. I hope to see you soon.

[@Tataymuntu]

This is has nothong to do with Portugal go to Africa you will get the same feeling

[@mysticaltyger2009]

It's definitely the food.

[@briannam.8245]

Wow! Do you mind if I ask you the nature of the symptoms that went away while in Portugal?

[@blue78174]

yes it is the food! Ive lived in Europe for 25 years, and every time i go back to the States.. problems from the food.... ;)

[@joannadickerson8572]

I visited my son who lives in Lisbon. Got very I’ll and was hospitalized there. I feel my care was as good if not better than in the U.S. I loved the people, the culture, and the safety! They will be there 5 years at least and I plan on another visit. A wonderful country.❤️

[@gilbertoabreu5425]

Thanks for the video. I am a Brazilian doctor validating my certification to go live in Portugal. I have two daughters in Spain. I just need to learn from you about investments

[@ianworley8169]

It's not just Americans. I've lived here in inland rural Portugal since 2002. In that time I've seen many UK, German, Dutch etc immigrants come and go. They just couldn't adjust, integrate, make a comfortable home or make Portuguese/Spanish friends. That, or quite simply, they drank themselves to death. Living excessive and unhealthy lifestyles. Failing to adapt their homes to make themselves comfortable. We completely renovated our Alentejan cottage. Our priority was to make it dry, warm, sustainable, insulated, wi-fi connected, modern and comfortably furnished. It's taken 20 years to get it exactly how we want it, but it's now perfect. Two years ago we finished the pool. Above all else, we're financially secure. By no means wealthy, but able to live comfortably within our means. All of this was meticulously planned from the day we arrived, leaving nothing to chance. Hard work, prudent living, but I can honestly say the best twenty two years of our lives. If we won the lottery, there's nowhere on Earth we would rather be.

[@kdclothes]

I am an American living in Italy, and I stay away from those negative individuals. They will poison my good mood. I know a lot of people who moved to Portugal from the UK and they are so happy there. I applaud your willingness to listen to your teenagers needs. It is hard for young people when living in a rural area of Italy or Portugal. Bravo to you and your family. Nice to watch your video and thank you for your lovely information. K from Italy

[@robertparsons313]

The grass is always greener on the other side.

[@sinceresong9907]

Right

[@mariatounsi5990]

And sometimes it is actually nicer to live in your adopted country. I left my country of birth in 2006. I prefer it here.

[@terry4137]

Not!

[@sheaintsaying]

Living in Portugal is a gift that we are grateful to be able to give ourselves, and an example we want to share with others, especially our adult children. We are subjecting ourselves to the local processes with respect and curiosity, as guests, and hopefully soon as residences. Nice job, Aman!

[@AileenTownsend]

My family visited Portugal years ago and thought it a beautiful country. I loved this video and how well explained and thoughtful your points are. I am now very intrigued to learn about your father's experience in Japan ❤

[@rosaromero7]

Portugal is beautiful!! Expectations kill dreams . Always surround yourself with positive people. And always do your homework. Thanks ORJ!! Happy Easter!!

[@Adsbvs5990]

We moved from Europe to NZ and did our research. Spent 1 year there before the move. The effects of COVID are so severe on the economy that the already high cost of living only got worse. So many people are leaving for Australia because they can’t afford to live in NZ. It’s not always as simple as “you weren’t prepared”

[@mysticaltyger2009]

Well said.

[@SlackHoffman]

I left NZ 11 years ago because of the extortionate prices, low wages, and crappy houses . A very beautiful country with very limited opportunities. I went to Oz and I’m much happier 😊

[@Croc555]

One thing people seem not to understand is that not only Portugal , but the rest of Europe, UK , US and basiclly most of the world is going down like a rock from the sky. Nothing to be happy about.

[@mrsmoore4937]

2019, I retired and moved to BCN with my 15yo daughter. Even through we were locked down for real for months during covid and she eneded up in online school, it was an amazing time. In Dec 2022, she graduated and we decided to leave Barcelona to roam around SE Asia for 6 mos before returning to the USA for her freshman year of college. I've dumped her in year round shared housing and claimed a global nomad life. I've gone back to see friends in Barcelona and Florence and fallen in love with Istanbul. I have 30 more days of being back in FL before I'm gone again until Jan 2025. Most issues I see with expats I run across is, they were running from something. So they were focused on solving a singular solution issues as opposed to considering the big picture. Often times they visit somewhere as a tourist, and think that's what real life is going to be like. As Americans, I don't think we think of other countries, like we think of our own. For instance, no only is the vibe different between Portugal and Spain, just inside Spain, the autonomous communities (like states) can have a different vibe like NYC to LA or TX and FL. I guess we just don't have the time to really explore things more thoroughly before we make the big leap. Unless you absolutely hate your adopted country, I'd suggest moving to a different city or region before repatriating. And, Spain def does not move on US time. Patience is a virtue was a saying invented for dealing with the govt in Catalonia. Absolutely avoid those negative Nancys and Neds. They should have stayed in America, because they needed a mindset change way more than a location change. Ive been following you guys since you started. Ive enjoyed your journey. Hope everyone looking finds their happy place to thrive and live theie best life. One Love

[@wisu3529]

You get it. I’m an American expat in Australia, have travelled everywhere over the past 30+ years, speak a bunch of different languages, etc. I’m mostly embarrassed by the bad behaviour i see from Americans abroad. The expectation that the rest of the world needs to accommodate them, speak English, deliver excessively over the top service everywhere. “Sorry honey, you’re not in Murica anymore” 😂. Love your story and glad you’re a good American who knows how to travel right 🥰🙏

[@vrrtg]

Just two points I don't agree with! 1st paying bills and taxes is one of the easiest things to do in Portugal, nearly everything can be paid through online banking or by using an ATM, and also, a lot of the bureaucracy can be done online you don't have to physically go places to book appointments and fill in paper work. 2nd leaving Portugal to study abroad when we have some of the best public universities that are extremely affordable, especially for expats, seems strange to me. There are also private universities with award winning courses but I'm not going to plug them here. 😊 Oh and one last thing, how easy is it to become a legal citizen in America or the UK or anywhere else? How about thinking what it's like for emigrants in your country of origin before poo-pooing about what it's like here in Portugal, still one of the easiest places to get a residency permit and eventually become a full citizen with all the same rights as any one born in this country. Wait 😅 just one more thing occurred to me! House prices are what they are because we've been letting to many people in and not building enough new homes to accommodate all these new residents and the first to suffer these exorbitant prices are the young portuguese looking to rent or to buy a house for the 1st time with the meagre salaries that they earn! This last point, more than anything else, is making portuguese people become less accepting of emigrants and that is just bad all over!

[@1pinestreet]

Is this Colonization 2.0? Move to another country, associate mostly with other ex-pats, run up the prices of homes, goods, and services with your American dollars, and eventually make the place unaffordable and unrecognizeable for/to the natives of the country?

[@jondeanpt]

Portugal is the UK in the 90s. Friendly, happy, good food, clean air, kids are not all on ipads and there are no people fighting about trans, palistine, and other peoples bull. The beach towns of greater Lisbon are beautiful. If you are cool and laid back you will love it. I’ve studied the Uk vs Portugal for the past two years and Portugal is worth the squeeze especially if you have kids. Lisbon is the spot my amigos

[@KevinFry-pw2jh]

This is a very good overview and I really liked how he pointed out the pros and cons of moving to Portugal. This guy is really on point!!! Thank you.

[@stevend481]

Do you feel any hostility from locals about the nomads/expats driving up prices?

[@DionTalkFinancialFreedom]

I spent too months in the Algarve. More expensive than in 90% days of the US. And people didn’t like Americans. Most Americans I saw, when asked, said they were from Canada.

[@ytalchemy]

Not really. Nothing against Americans. Actually, there are too many Brits in the Algarve and people there are sick of the drunkenness and high-handedness of many of them. There are many well-publicized episodes of Brits behaving badly in the rest of Europe (remember what happened in Porto during the football championships). It's the reason so many of us said "good riddance when Brexit happened.

[@briant3404]

same in madeira

[@wisu3529]

O problema é que todo mundo chega aí achando que os locais deveriam falar inglês com eles, igual aos americanos nos EUA querendo que todo mundo fale inglês (“Speak American when you’re in Murica!”) 😂

[@universoALC]

lol

[@chipyoung4396]

@@wisu3529Os residentes precisam de aprender o idioma onde vão morar bastante tempo.

[@tracyburton3458]

What you're saying is 100% true. We're UK citizens who moved here before Brexit (2018). We have lived on the Silver Coast, but ut wasn't for us and we have ultimately settled one mile from the coast in the Central Algarve. Our little town has a population of under 5,000 except in July and August when the apartment blocks fill up and the place explodes with life. Having lived in a city all my life, it was a little strange at first, but I've grown to love the peace and quiet. We are not wealthy people and still work, but I can sit in my bed with a morning cuppa and see the ocean. What could possibly beat that? The all-year hiking is also pretty special.

[@actionvj]

All valid points and worth considering BEFORE moving. I would say, find community, ask questions, visit for an extended period & make the best decision for yourself. Great video. 👍🏾

[@lynndupree1205]

I can't understand how anyone would make a major life decision such as moving to another country without first visiting for a while. Hell, I wouldn't even move to another US state without an extended prior visit!

[@Carpe-Diem]

I think many Americans want it to be a home away from home. They want something it’s not. Living in the cities is not really living in Portuguese culture because all major cities are multi cultural now. Very rare to meet a real Londoner in London nowadays! Yes countryside is quieter, and I mean away from the coast and golf resorts, 0:04 but there is a real sense of Portugal. Horses for courses.

[@kurtstergar1042]

The French hate the people from paris.

[@jann9507]

$1000/- for a 3 bedroom apartment!!; Why would someone choose Portugal vs staying put at home ?

[@lindastangelo1636]

I think it all depends on where you are from... believe me, living in the San Francisco Bay Area, even $2000.00 seems reasonable. Thats why my husband and I are trying to move to Portugal before the end of the year.

[@clbert7460]

Because I pay $2400 for the same size apartment😂

[@lorac4126]

​@@clbert7460Lol, I would love to jump on that deal.

[@bumblebay9559]

@@lindastangelo1636exactly. They should try Miami/Broward Fl $2,000 for 1 bedroom, water not included.

[@InMyBrz]

good luck finding an apto in any decent city in PT for $1,000

[@pedrojesus407]

I’m native Portuguese , but when I leave Portugal 14’years ago , never more can’t see Portugal the same way . Open your eyes and open your horizonte, I totally agree with you . Just got sun and holidays, festival , summit and good food but attention the prices . Good luck for all portuguese there!!

[@LifeUnfiltered-Raw]

Amon! This is a great video. There is so much research that goes into moving, and let alone moving across country.

[@patrickchappell5821]

Really sound, thoughtful reflections - based on your valuable experience. My over all impression from you is.... you get out of something what you put in! Thank you!

[@peterbedford2610]

Figure out a way to stay at least a few months. Day to day living is very different from a few visits for a week or two at a ime.

[@OurRichJourney]

📈Looking to learn how to invest? Enroll in our Stock Market Investing Course: www.ourrichjourney.com/investingforfire 🔥Learn more about financial independence and retiring early: Enroll in our F.I.R.E. Master Class: www.ourrichjourney.com/firemasterclass

[@kokopuravida]

Always refreshing information. Portugal has been on my list before the “trend”. After visiting, country remains top of our list!!

[@ElenaLawrence-up9tr]

I love Portugal ! Portugal is beautiful ! People are very warm and kind!

[@stephg7400]

Love your videos, positive attitude, advice, life lessons, and perspective. Wish I'd achieved financial independence in time to give Lisbon a go before housing prices had skyrocketed. It sounds amazing. Would love to hear your Dad's story about why Japan was the place for him!

[@expeditionconfidential8853]

I prepped and planned for 3 years to get us to Portugal. I sold all of belongings, car, and home. I was ready for a new beginning with my D7 Visa and a dream. 2 weeks after arriving I felt a lump. I spent the entirety of 2023 going thru biopsies, chemo, and surgeries. After receiving extraordinary medical care, I went back to the States thereafter severely depressed, and with PTSD. I never got to truly experience Portugal, or Europe, or accomplish anything I'd set out to do outside of successful arrival. I did meet kind locals and incredibly lovely and generous fellow Expats. This is where a crystal ball would have truly come in handy. I don't know if I'll ever return but I'm glad I at least took the risk. Some risks pan out...some don't. Such is life.

[@qm-sl6hy]

Thanks for being transparent about moving. I am a OG 365 member and traveled twice for the meetups. I love Portugal and plan to retire there. You and Christina continue to inspire and give sound advice.

[@kattiawood7557]

Americans have to change their mentality of have everything a phone call away

[@valsblueforrest2961]

I totally agree with you. The whole world is not the USA.

[@benitajasper4593]

I just stumbled upon this channel, and it’s the best expat I have found this far! Thank you for such an excellent job of keeping things moving yet so clearly defined. I’ve learned more within these 30 minutes than I have listening an hour or more on a couple of other channels that are well founded. Who has that kind of time? Absolutely great job!👏🏽

[@TravelGuy7]

I think property prices will eventually correct in a lot of Portugal. That’s when I will look at buying my place.

[@a.castillo9752]

Probably not much in the main cities … seems that the low interest rate is keeping from getting much of a correction there .

[@louisdewit4429]

Correct going up more. Happened everywhere in western Europe.

[@glennwagner8152]

Great video. Life is exactly what you make of it and you will find what your looking for. Look for everything that is wrong and you will find it.

[@adolumide7470]

Looking to move to Spain soon, we love Madrid so much. We will checking out Valencia next. Thank you for sharing ❤

[@MarcaoPT]

I am Portuguese, and I am not surprised at all. I fled the country and I am never coming back.

[@58joana]

I'm Portuguese and living in Portugal. After listing all those disadvantages in living in Portugal, I don't understand why someone would leave the LARGE and RICH countries like the USA. I long for the days when people living Here were the Portuguese. Now, we can hardly find them. In order to benefit foreigners, ex-pats or refugees, whatever, the real Portuguese are suffering penalties.

[@jannaissa5552]

I’m afraid this attitude of local people towards foreigners will become strong. Soon locals will not like foreigners to come and raise prices/ rent etc We could see this happening in Turkey already. Foreigners who bought houses in Turkey had to leave as their visa did not get extended.

[@kenmatthews46]

Now that you've been in Portugal for 5 years, do you plan to file for citizenship?

[@paulocalhau]

As a Portuguese living abroad, I understand the challenges when you move to a different country/culture. If you have the feeling that that´s the place you want to be (I had that feeling in Singapore) just let your hair down and let the time do its magic...you will see that after a while everything will come to place...

[@paolatrindade7263]

Obrigada por partilhar o teu pensamento. Acho que estás 100% correto. E obrigada pela positividade do teu comentário.👍❤️

[@borisnegrarosa9113]

When Americans move abroad they are really looking for a better version of USA. Americans don't understand different cultures, habits and mindsets, hence always get fed up and disappointed.

[@valsblueforrest2961]

You are so right!

[@tamick2000]

I wholehearted agree with your assessment of spending time with negative people. Don't do it. Enjoy the positives about your life and where you are at.

[@TT-by7tv]

I love Malaysia and Kuala Lumpur! Anyone leaving should head to Asia!

[@Qohelethv]

But these places are not very welcoming to people with chocolate skin, Africans so ...

[@sacroyalty]

Thanks for the video, I love this movement. I've been following you for ages, since just leaving for Portugal I feel like... We are an American (USA) family of 3 moving to Spain in February of 2025 and documenting our journey here on KZbin. We are very excited for our new adventure! :)

[@jayocean4724]

You are so smart and wise. I like getting advice from someone smarter than me. Ive learned about finances,investing and things I never learned in school.

[@seagoddess524]

I am an Expat living in Panama. I've been here 7yrs. I'm good.😊

[@jamesr1703]

In most European countries, if you do not have a family that surrounds you everyday, you will be extremely lonely and disconnected as a single person living there.

[@ElGringozable]

I am an Indian. I speak fully Portuguese, I know the Portuguese culture and I also know the national anthem and belong to a football club. Therefore, i am well integrated. Never faced an issue...

[@flordi8235]

Of course not. Portuguese people are inclusive, not racist, very friendly and trusting. Portugal in my opinion is the best place to live in the world!

[@Polemodrome]

Yeah, you will find all walks of life, particularly in the big cities. In the small village where I reside, there is even a Cuban family who has a house =) I'd say, as long as the newcomers work hard, don't try to force their native culture on the national identity and aren't acting like they come from a superior country, they will be welcome! Portugal is a humble but no-nonsense country, not taking bossy attitude. I have fallen out of fondness with France precisely because it's always been a doormat in this regard.

[@308KingsRoad]

♨️ The only time I've seen ppls dream sour is when they have unrealistic expectations, but if you go to a new place with a big bright Fresh outlook life is beautiful no matter where you land 🎉

[@namkebanyanklariti]

I like your optimism; you're quite the salesman! I hope the tourism ministry will enlist your support.

[@tonic2335]

Negative people are toxic…surround yourself with positive energy

[@tierno158]

Thank you. I’ve been visiting the Algarve and like it very much and I’m thinking of relocating here for a good part of the year from the US. You have given me a lot to think about. Good luck to you and your family.

[@sdls92110]

Portugal has made our lives so much richer and it’s not easy moving continents but we love it and I think I fall more in love with Lisbon every week. Ps - we had the same reaction to the Algarve. lol.

[@kinsondigital]

This is very good information. My wife and I moved to Porto three years ago, and even with these issues, we still love it. I don't care where you go in the world; there are always problems of some kind. People's patience and understanding are at an all-time low, and that doesn't help. But with the issues spoken about in this video, the positives outweigh the negatives by a long shot. At least they do for my wife and me. Go back to the U.S. and you will still deal with all kinds of issues, and the U.S. is not in short supply of issues by any means!

[@karenb9788]

Oh god not the Florida retirement community! Thx for the warning! Very informative video!

[@TwistedLyfofTV]

Yeah I moved to Florida thinking it was a good place to retire, five years and Ive never been so wrong. I wanted to move to Costa Rica or Portugal. I'm revisiting these ideas.

[@armystar90]

@@TwistedLyfofTV I've lived in Northwest Florida my whole life and I am ready to move out of here. It's still a lot of prejudice people here. Sometimes it feels like Alabama. They have the good old boy system. They don't try to hid it either, I went on an interview and he made it known he didn't like blacks.

[@apcostaneves]

Fantastic description of living in Portugal as an expat and what appears to be problems. I am living here since 2023 and I love it (this is my fourth country, after Brazil, France, and USA).

[@jameschaves5723]

I’ve traveled extensively and the lack of infrastructure in India was the worse. Waiting on a train platform for 7 hours!! I don’t think anyplace is worth being away from my family ❤️

[@guguncube2308]

Are you comparing a developed country with a developing country 🤔

[@olgalucanu8513]

Very well pointed out! I love your passion when talking about having the courage to try new places, new countries, meet new people, ... . Congratulations on your success!