Lisbon is a vibrant, beautiful city with a unique personality all its own. But living here isn’t for everyone, and fitting in with the locals can sometimes be challenging. From cultural quirks to lifestyle differences, there are a few things that might make adjusting to life in Lisbon tricky. Before you dive into Lisbon life, here are 9 reasons you might not fit in with the locals. I’m Lisbob, the expat’s assistant, here to help you understand the real Lisbon and see if it’s the right fit for you!
You’re Always in a Hurry
Lisbon locals are known for their laid-back attitude and slower pace of life. If you’re someone who’s always rushing or prefers a fast-paced lifestyle, you might struggle to adapt here. People take their time, whether it’s during a meal, a conversation, or even a business meeting. This relaxed approach can feel frustrating if you’re used to efficiency and punctuality. Learning to slow down and enjoy the moment is key to fitting in with the Lisbon vibe. If you’re not ready to embrace a slower pace, Lisbon might feel like a challenge.
You Don’t Appreciate Small Talk
In Lisbon, small talk is part of daily life, whether you’re at a café, in line at the store, or meeting new people. Locals value friendly conversations and enjoy taking the time to connect, even in brief interactions. For expats who prefer to keep interactions short and to the point, this custom can feel unnecessary or even invasive. But here, small talk is seen as polite and welcoming. If you’re not comfortable with casual chatting, fitting in with Lisbon locals might be a bit of a struggle, as they place a high value on these everyday exchanges.
You Expect Quick Service
Service in Lisbon, particularly in restaurants and cafés, isn’t always fast. The relaxed dining culture means waitstaff won’t rush to clear your table or bring your check. For locals, dining is a social experience, not something to be rushed. Expats who expect quick service might find themselves growing impatient, especially during busier times. Adapting to the slower pace and enjoying a leisurely meal is part of the Lisbon lifestyle. If you’re someone who values speedy service, you might find this aspect of Lisbon a bit challenging.
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You Prefer Formal Interactions
Lisbon locals are friendly and often prefer a casual approach, even in professional settings. The formalities that are standard in some cultures may not apply here. People are generally warm, and greetings can be informal, even with new acquaintances. If you’re used to a more formal or reserved approach, you may find this openness surprising or difficult to adjust to. Adopting a friendly, informal attitude can help you fit in better and feel more at ease with locals, who tend to value warmth over formality.
You Don’t Like Crowds
Lisbon is a bustling city, especially during peak tourist seasons. Crowds fill popular spots like Praça do Comércio, Alfama, and Bairro Alto, and public transport can get packed during rush hour. For locals, this is just part of city life, and they’ve learned to navigate the crowds or avoid busy areas when possible. But if you’re not comfortable with crowds or prefer quieter environments, you might find Lisbon’s busiest spots overwhelming. Being able to go with the flow or find hidden spots off the beaten path can help, but city life in Lisbon is rarely crowd-free.
You’re Not a Fan of Long Lunch Breaks
In Lisbon, lunch is more than a quick meal; it’s a time to relax, socialize, and take a break from the day. Long lunch breaks are the norm, and many businesses close or slow down during these hours. For expats who are used to quick, efficient meals, this extended lunch period can feel unproductive or frustrating. But for locals, it’s a cherished part of the day. Embracing the long lunch culture can help you better fit in and even enjoy the slower, more social approach to meals in Lisbon.
9 Reasons You Might Not Fit in with Lisbon Locals
You Prefer Quiet Nights In
Lisbon has a lively nightlife scene, with locals and visitors alike enjoying late nights out, especially on weekends. Bars, live music venues, and street festivals keep the city buzzing well into the early hours. But it’s not just nightlife that can disrupt the peace—Lisbon’s airport is located right in the city, meaning flights start early in the morning and continue late into the night. Depending on where you live, airplane noise can be a regular background sound, especially in neighborhoods close to the flight path. For those who love a quiet evening at home or uninterrupted sleep, Lisbon’s nightlife and air traffic might feel overwhelming. Understanding and adapting to this aspect of city life can make a difference, but it’s something to be prepared for if you value peace and quiet.
You’re Not Interested in Coffee Culture
Coffee is a way of life in Lisbon, and locals love their quick espresso breaks, often standing at the café counter. It’s a social ritual, a quick chat, and a pick-me-up all in one. If you’re not into coffee or don’t appreciate these brief social stops, you might miss out on an easy way to connect with locals. Coffee culture is more than just a caffeine fix; it’s a chance to interact and socialize. Joining in, even if it’s just for a quick tea, can help you feel more connected to Lisbon life.
You Need a Lot of Personal Space
While Lisbon locals are respectful, they’re also warm and friendly, and physical proximity isn’t uncommon in social interactions. Whether it’s a close chat at a café or two kisses on the cheek as a greeting, personal space is viewed differently here. Expats who value their personal bubble might feel uncomfortable with the close interactions that are typical in Lisbon. Adapting to this custom and embracing the warmth and friendliness can help you feel more at home, but it’s worth knowing that personal space here may be a bit closer than what you’re used to.
Thanks for joining me! I hope this article gave you insight into Lisbon’s unique social scene. I’m Lisbob, your trusty expat assistant. Until next time!
