Though there is something special about being at home and living in a familiar area, it’s hard to deny the appeal of moving abroad. For a lot of people, the warmer climate and more relaxed way of life is enough to convince them to uproot themselves and move. There are a lot of popular destinations where expats tend to gather abroad, one of which is the Algarve region of Portugal. If you are considering a move to Portugal, the Algarve should be at the top of your list. This region in southern Portugal offers a host of benefits, from its warm climate to its stunning natural beauty. In this blog, we will explore some of the many advantages of moving to the Algarve, and why it’s a popular destination for UK leavers.
Reasons People Move Permanently to the Algarve, Portugal
Climate – One of the biggest draws of the Algarve is its warm, sunny climate. The region enjoys hundreds of days of sunshine a year, with average temperatures of 25°C in the summer and 15°C in the winter. This means you can enjoy outdoor activities and a relaxed lifestyle year round, without having to worry about the cold and rainy weather that can be found in other parts of Europe. You are unlikely to spend days and days inside hiding from the rain, nor are you likely to have plans changed due to storms. In the Algarve, the weather is reliable and easy to predict.
Natural Beauty – The Algarve is known for its stunning natural beauty, with its rugged coastline, sandy beaches, and rolling hills. Whether you’re a hiker, a beach lover, or just enjoy exploring the outdoors, the Algarve has something for you. There are several nature reserves in the region, such as Ria Formosa and the Parque Natural do Sudoeste Alentejano e Costa Vicentina, where you can go on guided walks and boat tours to see the local flora and fauna. The region is also home to several picturesque towns and villages, such as Lagos and Albufeira, that are worth exploring. Even once you have lived in the Algarve for a while, you are unlikely to run out of natural beauty spots to explore.
Cost of Living – Compared to other parts of Europe, the cost of living in the Algarve is relatively low. Housing costs are affordable, particularly if you’re willing to live outside of the main tourist areas. Food and drink are also reasonably priced, with plenty of fresh produce and local wine on offer. A lot of people find that their money goes further in Portugal, and so it’s possible to have an improved quality of life. Though money worries can follow you anywhere, Portugal is unlikely to be more expensive than where you are currently living.
Quality of Life – The Algarve is known for its laid back lifestyle, with a focus on family, friends, and enjoying life. The region has a strong sense of community, with plenty of opportunities to socialise and meet new people, especially as an expat. The pace of life is slower than in many other parts of Europe, which can be a welcome change for those looking to escape the rat race. Additionally, the region is safe and has a low crime rate, making it an ideal place to raise a family.
Healthcare – Portugal has a national healthcare system that provides free or low cost medical care to all residents. The Algarve has several hospitals and clinics, as well as a network of private healthcare providers. The region is also known for its high standard of dental care, which is significantly cheaper than in other parts of Europe. You can move to the Algarve, knowing that your family will have access to any healthcare you need.
Easy to Visit – The Algarve is well connected to the rest of Europe, with several airports in the region that offer flights to major cities. The main airport, Faro Airport, is just a few hours’ flight from most European cities. Additionally, the region has a good road network, making it easy to get around by car. You can move to the Algarve, knowing that going home to visit friends and family is easy, and it’s a convenient place for loved ones to visit.
As you can see, the Algarve offers a host of benefits for those looking to move to Portugal. From its warm climate to its stunning natural beauty, the region has something for everyone. If you’re looking for a relaxed, affordable, and high quality lifestyle, the Algarve should be at the top of your list.
Should You Move to the Algarve?
There is obviously a lot to love about the Algarve, and it’s easy to see why so many people decide to move there on a permanent basis. However, this is not a decision to be made lightly. There is a lot to consider before you move to Portugal, such as where you will work and where your children will go to school. You also need to think about funding yourselves when you are there, and whether you have enough money to buy or rent a property. Though the Algarve is a wonderful place to live, making the move there permanently requires a lot of planning. You will also need to look into visas and getting permission to work in the country, which is not always guaranteed.