Portugal - In A Nutshell

Portugal - In A Nutshell!

Portugal is an interesting proposition in terms of whether or not it is on the top of the list of places most clients want to visit. It's probably not. Historically clients wanting to seek the sun and have a short flight from Northern Europe probably chose Spain. Sunshine, familiarity, cheapness and ease of travel. After having visited Spain and then maybe enjoyed a long-haul holiday further afield, clients then ask themselves where else? Perhaps then Portugal comes into focus. Is it different than Spain? What is the food like? Does it have nightlife? Are the beaches clean and safe? Eventually, sooner or later the flight is booked and you have committed to a holiday in Portugal.

What you find when you arrive is wonderful people. A culture that, over many years, has been accustomed to working and playing alongside foreigners. The Portuguese are extremely charming, helpful and relaxed. They love nothing more than a day on the beach, surfing a few waves, eating fresh fish and drinking a coffee. They still appreciate the simple things. Family and pleasure come first. It is no wonder when they are blessed with arguably the best climate in the world backed up by nature’s styling.

Portugal is a relatively small country stretching 900km from North to South and 200km from East to West. Its population is around 10 million. The capital is Lisbon with the second largest city being Oporto. Both these cities have become increasingly popular with tourists and investors over the last ten years. In the south you have the Algarve that runs East to West and is flanked by the Monchique mountain range. The Algarve remains the most popular destination with visitors from all over the world. Geographically the Algarve has it all. Sandspit beaches, nature reserves, dune backed beaches, cliffs, rock pillars – all waiting to form part of your ideal photograph. For the fitness minded then golf, cycling, tennis, surfing, swimming, fishing and football are enjoyed in abundance.

In terms of cuisine then the Portuguese enjoy everything the Atlantic Ocean can provide; fish and shellfish are a specialty, washed down with a sparkling green wine from the Douro. Alternatively, if fish isn’t your thing then enjoy the simple creation of piri piri chicken. Chicken (with or without the spicy sauce), homemade chips and a tomato salad. Always a favourite in packed restaurants with conversation filling the air rather than music. There are two main beers – Superbock and Sagres – and Portugal has its famous wines and port to help digest whatever you are eating. It’s even mouthwatering to write this.

It is no surprise that once clients have had a taste of Portugal they want to return. Year after year. Then the seed is planted that they want to have a home here; be it short term, long term, holidays, working here or retiring here. Safety – in terms of living your life and investing your money. Quality of life – warm weather, longer daytime hours, savings in your pocket. Pleasure – beachside walks, alfresco dining, barbecues with friends. Portugal may not have one overriding feature of why you should come but what is does have is an irresistible assortment of ingredients that produce a meal worthy of paradise.

OliveHomes.com 

Remember, we are different! If you are not sure about where to buy then let us help. The location is probably the most important consideration for long term enjoyment in your new home. Or maybe you want long term capital growth? Whichever it is, whatever it is, remember we take it one step at a time. You are on a journey with us. A journey to discover whether Portugal is right for you, whether you want coast or inland, busy or quiet, expats or locals and, of course, proximity to the local restaurant! At OliveHomes.com we start with the location and make sure that is perfect before moving on to the property. So, if you are not sure then please ask. We love nothing more than showing the delights that Portugal has to offer. 

OliveHomes.com is a dedicated and hard-working real estate company with vast experience and local knowledge within the property market, helping you to buy your perfect home or to sell your existing home. Virtual selling is our reality. We offer our unique 'Virtual Experience' on as many properties as we can. Take a look around in your own time and you will find a fully immersive 3D experience; a 360° tour (allowing you to remotely access the property), overhead videos and floor plans. We believe in giving you as much information as possible. Add to this our enthusiastic thirst for the perfect service and you'll see why our reviews (on both Google and our website) are so high! We like to help and take responsibility from start to finish so we can happily recommend lawyers, furniture companies, architects, surveyors, builders - nothing is too much trouble. Need a mortgage or bank account? - let us make an appointment. At OliveHomes.com we pride ourselves in matching you to your ideal investment or holiday home in the perfect location. Turn your property purchase dream into a reality. Contact us today and let's make it happen.