Home/Art of Living

Art of Living

Portuguese lifestyle and art of living

50articles

•

4themes

Themes:

Did You Know?Shopping Lifestyle Practical Life

To discover

Featured

Transport Cards (Viva Viagem, Andante) Explained

Travelling in Portugal also means learning how to move smoothly through its transport systems. In both Lisbon and Porto, two main cards rule the urban networks: Viva Viagem and Andante. Both appear simple, yet they can be confusing for newcomers. Here’s a clear guide to help you understand how they work and avoid common day-to-day mistakes.

Cultural Differences Between France and Portugal in Everyday Life

France and Portugal share a long common history built on respect and friendship. But living between the two countries means discovering how much small habits, ways of speaking, or daily routines differ. These cultural nuances, sometimes amusing, sometimes surprising, reveal a lot about the character of both peoples. Between lifestyle, communication, cuisine, family, or work, this is a journey into the heart of the French-Portuguese differences that make this relationship so rich.

Buy or Rent in Portugal: Which Housing Choice?

Portugal continues to attract: mild climate, vibrant culture, sunny gastronomy, and a relaxed pace of life. But when the time comes to settle or invest, one big question arises: should you buy or rent? The choice of housing, often emotional, becomes here a truly strategic decision. This guide helps you understand the differences, weigh the advantages, and choose the solution that best suits your project.

The Portuguese Colonial Empire, greatness and the end of an era

It is astonishing to think that a small country on the edge of Europe once ruled the seas and shaped global history. In the fifteenth century, Portugal, with barely over a million people, became the beating heart of the Age of Discovery. It was the age of sailors, dreamers and merchants who turned the unknown into possibility.

Truly Integrating into Portugal: Understanding the Local Mentality

There are countries where you arrive, unpack your bags, learn three words of the language, and think, “I’m integrated.” Portugal isn’t that kind of country. Here, integration isn’t about ticking boxes. It’s a slow conquest, a story of listening, of observation, of small gestures, and above all, of humility.

Port Wine, A Guide to Understanding and Enjoying It

Port wine is a true gem of Portugal’s wine heritage, admired worldwide for its richness, complexity, and fascinating history. It’s produced exclusively in the Douro Valley, a breathtaking region classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where vines cling to steep terraces as if reaching for the sky. This fortified wine embodies both Portuguese tradition and the expertise of generations of passionate winemakers, the time artisans who age wine the way others nurture love stories. But Port is much more than a drink : it’s a living chapter of Portuguese culture, a symbol of conviviality and gastronomy…in short, a glass that tells the story of a nation.

The Cost of Living in Portugal in 2025: Between Reality and Myth

For years, Portugal had that image of a small sunny paradise, where life cost almost nothing, where you could live like a king on a modest salary, and where retirees from Northern Europe came to settle down to “enjoy life.”

Mistakes to avoid when moving to Portugal

It’s a common mistake: imagining that moving to Portugal means leaving all modern life’s problems behind. The country may be welcoming, stable and warm, but it’s still a European nation with its own challenges.

Living in Portugal without speaking Portuguese myth or reality

Portugal is one of those rare countries where you can arrive without feeling completely lost. Young people speak English fluently, waiters switch easily between several languages, and even in public offices there’s almost always someone ready to help in French or Spanish. It’s not a myth: the Portuguese have a real talent for languages and, above all, they never make you feel bad for not speaking theirs.

Parfois: the accessories brand winning over all of Europe

Few Portuguese brands have achieved such widespread success. Founded in 1994 in Porto by Manuela Medeiros, Parfois began with a simple yet powerful idea: to offer stylish, trendy and affordable fashion accessories for women. Today, the brand operates in over 70 countries, with hundreds of stores across Europe, Africa and the Middle East.

The Most Popular Neighborhoods for Expats in Lisbon and Porto

Moving to Portugal has become, in recent years, a true social phenomenon. Between quality of life, mild climate, and warm hospitality, more and more expats are choosing Lisbon or Porto as their new home. But beyond clichés and postcards, each neighborhood has its own personality, atmosphere, and secrets. Let’s explore together the places most beloved by expats, where Portuguese authenticity meets modern comfort and a cosmopolitan spirit.

Ecolã, Portugal’s Oldest Wool Blanket Factory

Tucked away in the heart of the Serra da Estrela (more precisely, in Manteigas) Ecolã stands as a living symbol of Portugal’s rich textile heritage. Since its founding in 1925, this family-run company has beautifully combined tradition, ancestral craftsmanship and innovation, becoming the undisputed reference in burel production in Portugal.

Portuguese Designers Rising on the International Stage

Portuguese fashion is deeply rooted in a rich artisanal tradition, especially in the regions of Minho and Alentejo, where weaving, embroidery and lace-making are ancestral crafts. And good news : these techniques are still alive today !

Lisbon Fashion Week, Showcasing Portuguese Creativi

When Lisbon dons the attire of a creator and its streets transform into runways, it’s clear that ModaLisboa, the Lisbon Fashion Week, has returned !

Lost in Translation, Portuguese-English False Friends You Should Know

Learning Portuguese as an English speaker (or the other way around) can be both fascinating and occasionally… confusing. The two languages share a fair number of Latin roots, which makes many words look deceptively similar.

The Must-Have Apps for Living in Portugal

Moving to or living in Portugal may sound simple on paper… but once you get there, you quickly realise a few apps can make life so much easier !

Payment Methods in Portugal Cards, MB Way, and Cash

Portugal attracts millions of visitors every year, as well as a growing population of expatriates from Europe, Africa, and the Americas. For newcomers, understanding how payment methods work in the country is essential for managing a budget, making everyday purchases, and avoiding unpleasant surprises.

Mortgage Loans in Portugal : Conditions and Rates

Portugal attracts numerous people every year (expatriates, investors, and future homeowners) drawn by its climate, quality of life, and property prices that are still relatively affordable compared to other European countries.

Before putting down your suitcases in Portugal, vaccines, mosquitoes & other medical delights

So that’s it, you’ve decided to drop everything for the Portuguese sunshine, grilled sardines and 80-cent coffee. Excellent choice. But before you picture yourself sipping your vinho verde on a Lisbon terrace, there’s a small detail you’d better not skip: your health.

Uber, Bolt & Taxis: How to Move Around Efficiently

Getting around Portugal has never been easier. Between traditional taxis, ride-hailing apps like Uber and Bolt, and local alternatives, the country offers a wide range of options to travel comfortably, whether you are a resident, tourist, or expat. But each solution has its advantages, fares, and particularities. Here’s a guide to understanding how to move around efficiently every day, from Lisbon to Porto, without stress.

Long-Distance Buses: Rede Expressos, FlixBus and Other Companies

Travelling by bus in Portugal has become, in recent years, a true alternative to trains or cars. Between national routes and international companies, the network is dense, efficient, and often very affordable. Rede Expressos, FlixBus, Alsa, and CitiExpress crisscross the country from north to south and also connect major European capitals. Here’s a guide to understanding how these companies work and why they appeal so much to travellers and expats alike.

Portuguese Schools and Universities: Choosing the Right One for Your Children

Settling in Portugal is often a dream of sunshine, culture, and quality of life. But for families, another challenge quickly arises: schooling. Whether for young children or teenagers, choosing the right school or university is an essential step toward successful integration. Portugal offers a dynamic, modernized, and globally oriented education system, standing at the crossroads of Latin tradition and European innovation. Here’s a full overview to help you make the right choices.

Starting your business in Portugal when you come from abroad

In recent years, Portugal has established itself as one of Europe’s most dynamic countries for foreign entrepreneurs. It’s a subtle balance: a mild climate, relatively favorable taxation, a bureaucracy that’s modernizing, and above all, a mindset open to ideas from elsewhere.

Money Transfers France ↔ Portugal: Best Solutions

More and more French citizens are living, working, or investing in Portugal. Whether expats, students, retirees, or entrepreneurs, money transfers between France and Portugal have become a daily reality. But with hidden fees, varying transfer times, and sometimes unfavorable exchange rates, choosing the right transfer method is essential.

Private Clinics: Standards and Prices

If there is one area where Portugal quietly excels, it is private healthcare. The country has successfully combined high-quality care, modern technology, and genuine hospitality, creating a model appreciated by both locals and foreign residents. Faced with delays in the public system and the growth of medical tourism, private clinics are booming, particularly in Lisbon, Porto, and Faro.

Health Insurance for Expats: Options and Costs

Moving to Portugal is, for many, the fulfillment of a dream. Sunshine, the sea, gastronomy, and quality of life attract thousands of expats every year. But before diving into the calm rhythm of Portuguese life, one essential question arises: how to ensure proper healthcare coverage?

How to Avoid Tourist Scams in Portugal, Practical Tips and Local Anecdotes

Every year, millions of visitors discover Lisbon, Porto, the Algarve or even the Azores. Portugal is a warm, affordable country, famous for the kindness of its people. But even in the land of pastéis de nata, a few clever tricksters lurk around. Yes, just like in any popular destination, a few little scams still wander between the cobblestones.

Ferries and Boats: Crossings in Lisbon, Algarve and the Azores

Portugal isn’t discovered only by road or rail. Bordered by the Atlantic Ocean and crossed by majestic rivers, the country also offers an extensive network of ferries and maritime connections linking cities, beaches, and islands.

Canned fish, from everyday staple to gourmet art

In Portugal, canned fish embodies a true culinary tradition, an artisanal savoir-faire, and a way to elevate everyday meals. Sardines, tuna, mackerel, clams, and even octopus, each tin tells the story of fishermen, Portugal’s Atlantic coastlines, and the nation’s deep passion for the sea. And if you still think canned fish is just for lazy nights or quick fixes… think again !

The Must-Visit Vintage Shops in Lisbon and Porto

In both Lisbon and Porto, vintage isn’t just a fleeting trend, it’s practically a way of life. From iconic thrift stores and retro designer boutiques to hidden gems known only to insiders, Portugal nurtures a true passion for fashion from the past, reimagined for today. Whether you’re hunting for a one-of-a-kind piece, second-hand clothing, or a rare accessory to elevate your look, these two cities are brimming with places where the past flirts with the present in a creative and laid-back atmosphere.

Portuguese healthcare system : public vs private

You might have just settled in Portugal, sunglasses on, pastel de nata in hand, and suddenly think, “Okay, but what happens if I get sick ?”. Take a deep breath (it’s going to be fine), let’s break it all down together, clearly, simply, and without boring you (promise !). Here’s what you need to know about the Portuguese healthcare system, both public and private, what’s great about it, and what to keep in mind.

Opening a bank account in Portugal : how to do it

You’ve decided to settle under the Portuguese sun, coffee in hand and maybe a pastel de nata for dessert ? Excellent choice. But before you fully relax, there’s one essential step : opening a local bank account. Because yes, even in Portugal, things “run smoother” when you’ve got a Portuguese IBAN. Here’s how to do it, without losing your mind, promise !

Lanidor, An Iconic Brand in Women’s Fashion

In the landscape of Portuguese fashion, few names are as familiar as Lanidor. Born in the 1960s, the brand has become a true reference in women’s ready-to-wear: a clever blend of national craftsmanship, commercial flair, and international ambition. Here, it’s not just about selling clothes, it’s about telling a story ! A story of family, local production, retail innovation… and a certain idea of Portuguese chic. Let’s take you behind the scenes of a brand that has been dressing women for over half a century, with style, consistency, and a touch of saudade.

Cristiano Ronaldo doesn’t just have a museum… he also has an airport named after him!

Yes, he never ceases to amaze us, that Cristiano! The beloved child of Madeira doesn’t just have a collection of Ballon d’Ors or a line of underwear (yes, the one with the 4K abs on giant billboards—don’t pretend you haven’t seen it!). He also has… an airport named after him. That’s right! Because in Portugal, when people love, they don’t hold back—especially when it comes to CR7.

Amorim, Global Leader in Cork, From Wine Stoppers to Design

In the world of sustainable luxury, few brands manage to combine tradition, innovation, and environmental respect as elegantly as Corticeira Amorim! Founded in 1870 in Vila Nova de Gaia (just a few kilometers from Porto), this Portuguese family business is now the global leader in cork processing ; a noble, natural, and 100% recyclable material.

Vista Alegre, the Portuguese porcelain with worldwide prestige

Vista Alegre… The name might sound like that of a fancy dinner set sitting proudly in a high-end sideboard, but behind those elegant plates lies a true Portuguese saga ! A story made of clay, industrial genius, espresso coffee and let’s be honest, a little bit of national pride (yes, I see you, tableware lovers).

Moving to Lisbon vs Porto: Pros & Cons

You’ve probably already closed your eyes imagining your new life in Portugal: a terrace under the sun, a pastel de nata (or maybe a glass of vinho verde in hand), the sun setting over the Atlantic. But here’s the thing: choosing between Lisbon and Porto isn’t just about “which café has the better view ?”. It’s more like picking between two pairs of sneakers, both stylish, but depending on what you want to do… one might just fit better.

Why Do the Portuguese Love Cod So Much When It Doesn’t Live in Their Seas?

Portugal is a country turned toward the sea. Its coastline stretches for more than 800 kilometers, and yet the most emblematic fish of its cuisine, bacalhau (salted and dried cod), does not live in Portuguese waters. A curiosity that intrigues travelers and fascinates food lovers alike.

José Maria da Fonseca, 200 Years of Winemaking History

This morning, I opened a bottle… (don’t worry, it wasn’t my first instinct of the day) and no, it wasn’t a rosé for a night out with friends, but a wine carrying a whole legacy, one I was taking to my parents’ for lunch. Here’s the story of a winery celebrating two hundred years without losing a single drop of genius… and with a good dose of joy in the glass!

Delta Cafés, the success story of a small family business

When you pour your morning coffee, remember that behind every cup, there’s often a story. And the one I’m going to tell you today is none other than that of Delta Cafés and trust me, it’s a particularly delicious one ! With an urban tone, a friendly touch, and a hint of humor (because yes, even coffee can have swag), we’re heading on a journey from Campo Maior (in the Alentejo) to coffee shops all around the world.

How “Saudade” Became the Most Famous Untranslatable Word in the World ?

Ah, saudade… that word that drifts through the Portuguese air like a fado note, that slips into conversations without ever really being translated. If you live in Portugal, you’ve definitely heard it (maybe even felt it) without quite knowing how to explain it ! And if you haven’t yet, brace yourself : once you understand saudade, it never leaves you.

Working in Portugal : the sectors hiring in 2025

You’ve thought about it “what if I moved somewhere sunny, worked from a terrace, and forgot about traffic jams for good ?” (Let’s be honest, that thought has crossed everyone’s mind at least once !) Well, good news : Portugal’s job market is buzzing this year ! If you’re thinking about moving here or simply fancy a change of scenery, here’s a look at the sectors hiring in 2025 and where you might need to grab your laptop (or your safety boots, your call).

How to get your número de utente (Portuguese health user number)

If you plan to live in Portugal for more than a few weeks (or even a few months), there’s one phrase you’ll hear sooner rather than later : “número de utente.” It’s also called the “SNS number.” This is your personal ID within the Portuguese public healthcare system (Serviço Nacional de Saúde). Without it, you’re basically a “medical tourist.” With it, you’re officially part of the system you can book appointments at your local centro de saúde (public health center), see a family doctor, go to the ER, and get billed like a local resident. In short, it’s your ticket to public healthcare. So yes, it’s important ! And good news : getting it is totally doable even if Portuguese bureaucracy has a deep love for… paperwork. Lots of paperwork !

Portuguese Pharmacies: A Local Service

In Portugal, the pharmacy is much more than a simple place to buy medicine. It’s a space of trust, a point of reference in daily life, a place where advice, attention, and proximity meet. In both big cities and remote villages, Portuguese pharmacies play a key role in healthcare and in the human connection between professionals and the community.

Bordallo Pinheiro, when earthenware becomes pop art

Let’s be honest : when we think of earthenware, we often picture grandma’s plates or slightly dusty trinkets sitting in a heavy oak cabinet. And yet… in Portugal, one brand has managed the impossible, turning ceramics into something cool, stylish, and downright irresistible. Its name ? Bordallo Pinheiro. Yes, that name, which sounds almost like a fado chorus remixed by a good modern DJ, hides a fascinating story, a little eccentric, a lot artistic, and unmistakably Portuguese.

The Non-Habitual Resident (NHR) status, explained simply

We’re going to talk about a very serious topic (taxes) but I promise I’ll do it without putting you to sleep ! Because if you already live in Portugal, or if you’re seriously thinking about moving here in “new life in the sun + smart tax planning” mode, you’ve definitely heard this acronym : NHR. In full : Non-Habitual Resident. Or, in Portuguese (if you prefer) : Residente Não Habitual. So : what exactly was this famous NHR status ? Why was everyone talking about it ? Why did it attract so many people to Portugal ? And most importantly… what changed in 2025 ? Let’s break it down calmly, coffee in hand (and pastel de nata on the side).

Why Do the Portuguese Love Cod So Much if It Doesn’t Live in Their Waters?

It is one of Portugal’s greatest culinary paradoxes: a country proud of having one of the largest maritime zones in Europe, with kilometers of Atlantic coastline and ancient fishing traditions, has made its national fish one that doesn’t even swim in its waters. Cod is absent from the Portuguese sea, yet omnipresent in the nation’s culture, gastronomy, and collective imagination.

Online Banks and Neobanks Operating in Portugal

Portugal, known for its hospitality and relaxed lifestyle, is also a country looking toward the future. In the financial sector, it is establishing itself as a European laboratory for digital banking services. With a young, connected, and tech-savvy population, online banks and neobanks have found an enthusiastic audience here.

Futah, The Portuguese Beach Towels Everyone’s Talking About

Summer in Portugal means sunshine, golden beaches, and moments of relaxation. Among the must-have accessories for enjoying the coast, the brand Futah stands out as a symbol of style and freedom. Its Portuguese beach towels (elegant, practical, and durable) appeal to both locals and travelers. The result? Their popularity keeps growing internationally. (You see them everywhere, from the sands of the Algarve to August holiday Instagram stories !) Futah isn’t just a towel brand. It’s a lifestyle that blends tradition, contemporary design, and a commitment to nature. Owning a Futah towel means carrying a little piece of Portugal with you, combining comfort, aesthetics, and environmental respect.

The bells of Barcelos, the origin of the rooster, symbol of Portugal

The bells of Barcelos, the origin of the rooster, symbol of Portugal When you walk through souvenir shops in Portugal, you inevitably come across a colourful bird, with vivid patterns and naïve decorations: the Galo de Barcelos. This ceramic rooster, often painted red, blue, yellow, symbolises much more than a mantelpiece ornament. It has become a cultural and national emblem. But where does it really come from? What does it represent today? Here’s everything you need to know.

Discover more articles

Explore our other categories

Home