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Culture & Tradition, Tips
Marc Martin - Portugal
9 Things to Consider Before Buying Property in ...

Buying property in Portugal can be an exciting investment, but it’s essential to approach it with careful planning and awareness of the local market. From legal requirements to hidden costs, here are five key things to consider before buying property in Portugal. I’m Lisbob, the expat’s assistant, here to guide you through what to know so you can make an informed decision!

9 Things to Consider Before Buying Property in Portugal
Culture & Tradition, Tips
Marc Martin - Portugal
Expat vs. Migrant: What’s the Difference and ...

As someone who works closely with individuals moving to new countries, I often hear the terms expat and migrant used interchangeably. But are they really the same? Words matter, and choosing the right one can shape how we understand and discuss the experience of moving across borders. Let’s explore the distinctions between these terms, why I choose to use “expat,” and what it really means to live in a country that’s not your own.

Expat vs. Migrant: What’s the Difference and Which Term Should You Use?
Culture & Tradition, Tips
Marc Martin - Portugal
9 Things You Should Never Say to a Portuguese ...

Portugal is a welcoming and friendly country, but like anywhere, there are cultural sensitivities that it’s good to be aware of! Certain topics and phrases can be touchy, and it’s best to approach them with caution. Here are 9 things you should avoid saying to a Portuguese person if you want to keep the conversation friendly and respectful. I’m Lisbob, the expat’s assistant, here to help you navigate Portuguese culture with ease!

9 Things You Should Never Say to a Portuguese Person
Culture & Tradition, Tips
Marc Martin - Portugal
9 Things Expats Miss Most About Home After ...

Moving to Portugal is an incredible adventure, filled with new experiences, beautiful scenery, and a relaxed lifestyle. But even with all the perks, there are certain things expats often find themselves missing from home. From familiar foods to cultural traditions, here are 9 things expats commonly miss most after moving to Portugal. I’m Lisbob, the expat’s assistant, here to help you navigate the highs and lows of expat life!

9 Things Expats Miss Most About Home After Moving to Portugal
Culture & Tradition, Tips
Marc Martin - Portugal
9 Big Differences Between Northern and Southern ...

Thinking about making Porto your new home? With its stunning river views, historic charm, and vibrant culture, Porto has a lot to offer. But don’t let the postcard images fool you—living in Porto has its own quirks, surprises, and challenges that newcomers should know. Before you pack your bags and head to this beautiful city, here are 9 things you absolutely need to know. I’m Lisbob, the expat’s assistant, and I’m here to give you the real scoop on life in Porto!

9 Big Differences Between Northern and Southern Portugal
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Border between Portugal and Spain reopened after 3 and a half months of closure

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Border between Portugal and Spain reopened after 3 and a half months of closure

It had been since March 17th that the land border between Portugal and Spain was closed due to the coronavirus epidemic. After three and a half months, the two neighboring countries have decided to reopen their border this Wednesday, July 1st. And to mark the occasion, the 2 heads of state as well as the 2 heads of government will be present for a ceremony. It is now possible to move freely between the two countries. Lisbob, the expatriate assistant, tells you all about the reopening of the border between Portugal and Spain this Wednesday, July 1st.

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TAP airlines will be nationalised

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TAP airlines will be nationalised

It was a rescue that was expected. While the coronavirus crisis strongly impacted the Portuguese airline TAP, the government of Antonio Costa decided to move forward with the nationalization of the emblematic company. TAP will be nationalized because private shareholders do not accept the conditions imposed by the Portuguese government regarding the loan of 1.2 billion euros to the airline. After losing 100 million euros in 2019 and being hit hard by the covid-19 crisis, the nationalization of TAP is likely to be expensive. Lisbob, the expatriate assistant in Portugal, tells you all about the nationalization of TAP.

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New lockdown in 19 parishes of Lisbon area

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New lockdown in 19 parishes of Lisbon area

It is a complete change of strategy for the Portuguese capital. After the announcement in recent days of a tightening of the deconfinement rules, it is finally a comeback to lockdown which is confirmed for Lisbon. Only outings to work and shopping will be allowed, according to the Observador newspaper. 19 municipalities in the Lisbon region are affected. Lisbob, the expatriate assistant, tells you all about the return of lockdown in the Lisbon region.

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Mini-lockdown: check out the new rules for the Lisbon metropolitan area

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Mini-lockdown: check out the new rules for the Lisbon metropolitan area

Recent Portuguese figures for the coronavirus epidemic are not good, especially in the Lisbon area. Prime Minister Antonio Costa announced on Tuesday new measures that will only be in place in the Lisbon metropolitan area, AML, and will remain until the spread figures for covid-19 improve. Over the past few days, Portugal is the 2nd European country with the highest ratio of new cases and Lisbon has been forced to tighten the rules. Lisbob, the expatriate assistant, tells you all about the new Lisbon mini-lockdown rules.

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What to do in Coimbra in 2020 : Top 7 monuments and places to see and visit in Coimbra and walking tour

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What to do in Coimbra in 2020 : Top 7 monuments and places to see and visit in Coimbra and walking tour

Located between Lisbon and Porto, the medieval city of Coimbra was considered for a long time as the cultural and intellectual center of Portugal and is today one of the cities to visit absolutely. Indeed, the millennial city is full of places to visit and things to do, and Coimbra will not fail to surprise you as its cultural heritage is rich. You will also realize that the history of the city of Coimbra is closely linked to that of the country. The city of Coimbra dominates Rio Mondego and the fifteenth century monuments of the old city give it a special atmosphere, an existence as timeless. To visit Coimbra is to step back in time. What to do to make the most of your visit to the city of Coimbra ? What are the best places to visit and things to see during your stay in Coimbra ? Lisbob, expats’ assistant in Portugal, has prepared his list of the 7 best things to see during your visit to Coimbra and a walking tour.


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Portugal is the second European country with the most cases of coronavirus per 100,000 inhabitants

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Portugal is the second European country with the most cases of coronavirus per 100,000 inhabitants

Recent figures from Portugal regarding the coronavirus epidemic are not good. This is what emerges from a study that compares all European countries and Portugal is the 2nd worst country in terms of cases of coronavirus per 100,000 inhabitants. Only Sweden is worse than Portugal. A total of 6 European countries are currently closing their borders to Portuguese nationals, based in particular on this data. Portugal defends itself by showing that it tests a lot more and therefore finds more cases. Expatriate assistant Lisbob tells you all about the recent bad figures for the coronavirus epidemic in Portugal.

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Algarve on maximum alert for fire risk until Tuesday

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Algarve on maximum alert for fire risk until Tuesday

Fires are not uncommon in June in Portugal, and they can be extremely dangerous. We must remember those of Pedragão Grande 3 years ago who had claimed the lives of dozens of people. Today the IPMA (Portuguese Institute of the Sea and the Atmosphere) has put 4 municipalities of Algarve on maximum alert for fire risk, the highest level on the alert scale set up by the Portuguese authorities. The trend will worsen over the weekend with 7 Algarve municipalities on maximum fire alert, and the entire region at least at high risk. The Portuguese authorities call for the greatest caution. Lisbob, the expatriate assistant in Portugal, tells you all about this maximum fire risk alert.

A boat with 22 migrants intercepted on the beach of Vale do Lobo, in the Algarve

A boat with 22 migrants intercepted on the beach of Vale do Lobo, in the Algarve

A boat with 22 migrants from Morocco was intercepted in the territorial waters of Portugal this Monday morning around 5 a.m. The boat was spotted by fishermen who alerted the Portuguese Maritime Police in Vale do Lobo, near Faro in the Algarve. The whole group says they come from Morocco: they have all been taken care of by the SEF (Foreigners and Borders Service) and they will all be tested with coronavirus today. Their journey lasted 3 days, and they are suspected of illegal immigration by the Portuguese police. This is the second time in a few days that a boat from Morocco has attempted to reach the beaches of southern Portugal. Lisbob, the expatriate assistant, tells you all about the arrival of 22 migrants.

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Portugal could host 2 Formula 1 Grand Prix this year

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Portugal could host 2 Formula 1 Grand Prix this year

The coronavirus epidemic has disrupted the schedule of many sports competitions. Formula 1 is not to be outdone but should return this year with significant changes. Indeed, some Grands Prix will not be able to take place on the planned circuits and Portugal could benefit from it. After 24 years of absence, F1 could return to Portugal. And not to do things halfway, it would not be one but two Grands Prix that Portugal could host this year. Lisbob, the expatriate assistant, tells you all about the possible return of Formula 1 to Portugal in 2020.

Portugal is the 3rd safest country in the world (1st European)

Portugal is the 3rd safest country in the world (1st European)

Portugal stands out once again in terms of security. Renowned for its security, Portugal has just been considered the 3rd safest country in the world, the 1st at European level, according to the Global Peace Index (GPI) which indicates the safest countries. On the podium, New Zealand and Iceland accompany Portugal. Overall, however, the security index tends to fall. Lisbob, the expatriate assistant in Portugal, tells you all about this new international recognition for the security of the country and which will certainly attract tourists and expatriates.

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Uber call center in Lisbon fires 42% of its employees by videoconference

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Uber call center in Lisbon fires 42% of its employees by videoconference

The Uber call center, the famous platform of private drivers and home delivery, is known to expatriates living in Lisbon. In the space of a few years it had indeed become one of the largest employers of expatriates in the Lisbon capital. Unfortunately, the covid-19 crisis had a strong impact on Uber and after a first wave of layoffs abroad, 42% of employees in central Lisbon learned of their layoffs by videoconference. 160 new talents on the job market. Lisbob, the expatriate assistant, tells you all about the dismissal of 160 Uber Lisbon employees by videoconference.

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A "very aggressive" Nile crocodile sought in the waters of the Douro River

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A "very aggressive" Nile crocodile sought in the waters of the Douro River

It is not an April Fool: the Spanish authorities are looking for a specimen of crocodile that would weigh more than 250 kilos. The creature was spotted by three different people this weekend in the Pesquerela area, near Valladolid. Experts say it is a Nile crocodile, a species considered to be "very aggressive" and calls for maximum caution when encountering the animal. The search has mobilized more than 10 people and drones, but so far has yielded nothing. Lisbob, the expatriate assistant, tells you all about the Nile crocodile in the Douro.

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Portuguese tax authorities ordered to reimburse full ISV tax for the first time

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Portuguese tax authorities ordered to reimburse full ISV tax for the first time

Between Portugal and the ISV tax, it's a great love story. This tax (impostor sobre veiculos) concerns vehicles imported from abroad, and often represents an unpleasant surprise for expatriates who come to settle in Portugal. Being able to easily reach several thousand euros, this tax is disputed by taxpayers but also by Europe. For the first time, the Portuguese tax authorities were ordered to reimburse the full ISV tax collected for a used car imported from Germany. Lisbob, the expatriate assistant in Portugal, tells you all about this new defeat of the Portuguese tax authorities regarding the ISV tax.

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Visit Tomar in 2020 : how to go, what to do, what to see, where to eat and sleep in the Templars city

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Visit Tomar in 2020 : how to go, what to do, what to see, where to eat and sleep in the Templars city

One of the best options to spend a weekend away from Lisbon is surely to visit Tomar. Former seat of the Knights Templar, Tomar is a city that has kept a lot of charm, because of its artistic and cultural richness. Visiting Portugal is also discovering its medium-sized but XXL heritage cities, and Tomar is definitely one of them. If you like time travel then visiting Tomar will be an unforgettable experience for you. Indeed, Tomar is full of places and places rich in history and its heritage has nothing to envy to other Portuguese cities. The best proof is the convent of Christ, one of the most important works of the Renaissance in Portugal. Located 2 hours by train from Lisbon this city is one of the most interesting to visit. There are also lot of activities, like the unforgettable Private Tour from Lisbon to discover the mysteries of the headquarters of Templar Knights. What to visit in Tomar ? How to get there ? What to do in the city of the Templars ? Lisbob, the Expatriates' Assistant in Portugal, introduces you to Tomar, the city of the Knights Templar.

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Portugal is the first European country to receive the "Safe Travels" award

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Portugal is the first European country to receive the "Safe Travels" award

The tourism sector in Portugal stands out once again. Rather unscathed by the coronavirus epidemic, Portugal is indeed the first European country to receive the "Safe Travels" prize awarded by the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC). This award allows Portugal to be recognized as a safe health and safety destination in the post-covid world19. Lisbob, the expatriate assistant in Portugal, tells you all about this new international recognition for Portuguese tourism.

Portugal (except Lisbon) enters phase 3 of deconfinement: find out what is changing

Portugal (except Lisbon) enters phase 3 of deconfinement: find out what is changing

Portugal is continuing its deconfinement plan thanks to the positive development of the coronavirus epidemic. Portuguese Prime Minister Antonio Costa has announced that the whole country is in phase 3 deconfinement, except the metropolitan area of ​​Lisbon which is experiencing an increase in the number of confirmed cases. With this new phase, many things change and new activities are allowed. Shops, restaurants, swimming, gymnasium, the changes are many. Lisbob, the expatriate assistant, tells you all about what's new in the third phase of the deconfinement plan in Portugal.

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Check out the maximum capacity of each beach of Portugal

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Check out the maximum capacity of each beach of Portugal

As part of its fight against the coronavirus epidemic, Portugal has decided to set up a limited number of people who can be on each beach at the same time. If some Portuguese beaches are very large and can accommodate thousands of people, others are smaller and more strongly implanted by the tides and have their capacity limited to less than 20. The Portugal Environment Agency (APA) comes to disclose the maximum capacity for each range. Lisbob, the expatriate assistant, tells you what will change on the Portuguese beaches is summer.

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8 districts of Portugal under weather alert for extreme warm and UV radiation

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8 districts of Portugal under weather alert for extreme warm and UV radiation

The Portuguese Institute for the Sea and Atmosphere (IPMA) has just issued a heat alert for 8 districts in Portugal. The IPMA predicts "the persistence of high maximum temperature values", with temperatures that will reach 35 degrees this Tuesday inland, without falling below 20º overnight. This alert will be orange for Madeira, the second most serious in Portugal, and will be yellow for the rest of the districts under alert. Also, the whole of Portugal will be under UV alert, harmful to the skin. Lisbob, the expatriate assistant in Portugal, tells you everything about this hot weather alert in 8 districts.

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Concreting of the virgin beaches of Comporta will start in September

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Concreting of the virgin beaches of Comporta will start in September

Would Portugal make the same mistake as Spain? While the Portuguese beaches are renowned for their wild side and they have been (outside the Algarve) on the whole rather preserved by mass tourism, Portugal is about to sacrifice one of its most beautiful places along the Atlantic coast: Comporta beach. Located south of Troia, this long virgin beach of construction will indeed be transformed into a luxury hotel complex and works will start in September. The consortium formed by Vanguard Properties and Amorim Luxury will begin concreting one of the most beautiful beaches in Portugal in September: you will have to take advantage of the beaches of Comporta this summer. Lisbob, the expatriate assistant, tells you all about the concretion of the beaches of Comporta in Portugal.

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Lisbon pays 3 years' rent in advance to landlords who join the "Renda Segura" program

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Lisbon pays 3 years' rent in advance to landlords who join the "Renda Segura" program

Lisbon property prices have been a recurring problem for those who wish to find accommodation there for several years. On the other hand, many owners are asking their tenant for concrete guarantees in order to cover themselves in the event of default. The Lisbon city council wishes to reconcile the two with its “Renda Segura” program: a rental housing program accessible for tenants, and a payment guarantee for owners. Some may even ask to receive 3 years' rent in advance. Lisbob, the expatriate assistant in Portugal, tells you all about this “Renda Segura” program in Lisbon.