Retirees Choose Portugal For Their Golden Years

Sunshine, warmth, an active outdoor lifestyle and affordable, high-quality food and wine are what many of us seek when it comes to retirement.

Increasingly, according to the organisers of the Moving to Portugal Show, retirees are turning to Portugal to provide all of these elements during their golden years.

Financial considerations are also often crucial during retirement, with Portugal delivering another significant win on this front. According to Expatistan, the cost of living in Lisbon is 36% cheap than in the UK. In Porto, life is 44% cheaper, and in the sun-kissed Algarve city of Faro, it is 46% cheaper.

Portugal's glorious weather means the lifestyle that retirees can enjoy there focuses on plenty of time outdoors. The country is home to around 100 golf courses and over 390 Blue Flag beaches, as well as diverse opportunities for everything from hiking to sailing. An abundance of cafes, restaurants and bars with outdoor terraces also provides plenty of scope for sociable get-togethers – further supported by Portugal's affordable dining prices.

The excellent infrastructure in Portugal also serves those seeking semi-retirement, with working part-time and remotely easily achievable. Easy direct flights back to Ireland from Lisbon, Faro and Porto also support hybrid working arrangements, as well as keeping in touch with friends and family back home.

Christina Hippisley, General Manager of the Portuguese Chamber of Commerce, said: “Retiring to the sunshine is the dream for many. Moving to Portugal turns that dream into a reality – and is easier than many people realise. We would encourage anyone considering spending their retirement in the sunshine to find out more about the lifestyle and opportunities available in Portugal.”