Moving internationally can be a complicated process. The excitement of starting a new chapter in a different country comes with a unique set of challenges, especially when it comes to packing and transporting your belongings across borders. Ensuring the safety of your items, dealing with customs and navigating the logistics of an overseas move can quickly become overwhelming. Fortunately, you can book professional packing services to help with your move. 

These services can transform your overseas move into a more manageable and organised process. In this post, we have explored how an international moving company in Portugal, like Algarve Removals, can transform your moving experience from stressful to seamless, making your transition smoother and allowing you to focus on the excitement of your new adventure.

The Importance of Professional Packing

Professional packing services offer more than just packing your items, they provide peace of mind. Knowing that your belongings are carefully handled, wrapped and packed by experts can alleviate some of the stress associated with moving abroad. At Algarve Removals, we are a reliable international moving company in Portugal and our full range of packing services are designed to meet every need. Our expert team will ensure every item, regardless of its size or shape, receives the attention it deserves, making the packing process hassle-free.

Customised Packing Solutions

Every move is unique and so are the packing requirements. Professional services offer customised solutions, whether you’re moving your entire household, valuable collectables or awkwardly shaped furniture. With many years of experience in the removal industry, at Algarve Removals we will assess your items and suggest the best packing methods and materials for each piece. From sturdy boxes and bubble wrap to custom crates, we ensure your belongings are protected throughout the journey. Our tailor-made packing plan for international removals to Portugal guarantees maximum protection for your belongings. 

Efficient and Time-Saving

Packing can be incredibly time-consuming, often taking days or even weeks to complete. By booking a professional service, you can save precious time. Removal teams are trained to pack efficiently, ensuring your home is packed up and ready to go in a fraction of the time it would take to do it yourself. This is essential when you’re working within the tight timelines often associated with international moves. Our streamlined process not only speeds up packing but also ensures that every aspect of your move is completed as planned, allowing a smooth transition and preventing unnecessary stress.

Expert Handling and Safety

The safety of your items is paramount during an international move. Professional packers have the knowledge and skills required to carefully pack fragile items, ensuring they are well-protected during transit. By using high-quality packing materials, we can significantly reduce the risk of damage when you relocate to Portugal. Our knowledge of international shipping regulations and customs requirements also ensures your belongings are fully compliant with international standards, so you have one less thing to worry about.

Comprehensive Services

When you choose a professional packing service, you also have access to a comprehensive range of moving services. At Algarve Removals, we offer door-to-door services, including packing, loading, transportation and even storage solutions if needed. This approach simplifies the moving process, providing a single point of contact for all your moving needs. From the moment the packing begins to the final delivery, every detail of your move to Portugal will be managed with care and expertise.

Insurance and Peace of Mind

Despite best efforts, accidents can happen when you’re moving house, particularly when moving abroad. Professional moving services provide insurance to protect your belongings against damage or loss. This added layer of protection offers peace of mind, knowing you’re covered in any eventuality. We offer full insurance and it’s included in the quotes for our removal services at no extra cost. When choosing an international moving company in Portugal, always check what cover is provided and whether you will need to arrange additional insurance for specific items, such as items of high value.

Finding an International Moving Company in Portugal

An international move presents a unique set of challenges, but with the right support, it can be an exciting and hassle-free experience. Professional packing services play a key role in streamlining the process of moving abroad and it’s easy to see why they are so popular among homeowners. If you’re interested in getting some expert help with your packing, contact our team at Algarve Removals. You can turn to us in confidence knowing your belongings are in safe hands and you can focus on the adventure ahead. When moving from the UK to Portugal, we can assure you that you won’t be disappointed when you choose us to help you.

Relocating to Portugal provides an opportunity to start fresh in a stunning new country. Whether the warmer climate, rich culture or beautiful landscapes is what attracted you to Portugal, moving overseas offers a unique chance to create your perfect living space. However, one of the biggest challenges that comes with an international move is deciding what to do about your furniture. Do you bring your old pieces with you or do you start anew? This is where our online shopping service at Algarve Removals can be useful. We provide a convenient solution that enables you to easily order new furniture for your home in Portugal.

Embracing New Beginnings

Moving to a new country is the perfect time to reassess what items you love and what makes your house feel like home. While some homeowners choose to ship everything overseas, others see an international move as an opportunity to upgrade their living spaces. However, the thought of navigating local stores in a new country, dealing with language barriers and organising delivery can be daunting. Fortunately, here at Algarve Removals, we offer a seamless online shopping service that’s designed to make furnishing your new home in Portugal as easy as possible, so you can focus on other aspects of your move.

How It Works

Our online shopping service is specifically designed for British expats. This service allows you to purchase furniture and homeware from your favourite UK retailers, whether it’s John Lewis, IKEA or DFS, and have them delivered directly to your new home in Portugal. The process is very straightforward, you simply shop online at any UK store and have your items delivered to Algarve Removals’ UK depot in Essex. Our removal team will take care of the rest, ensuring your new purchases arrive safely on your new doorstep.

The Benefits of Ordering New Furniture

Furnishing your new home should be an exciting part of your relocation journey, not a source of stress. Here’s how ordering new furniture to be delivered by Algarve Removals can benefit your international moving experience;

  • Customising Your Space – Starting with a blank canvas allows you to tailor your new home to your taste. You can select new pieces of furniture that not only fit the aesthetic of your new home but also adapt to the Portuguese lifestyle. This ensures every room reflects your personal style and meets your functional needs. Whether you’re aiming for a minimalist design or a cosy traditional home, you can easily furnish your space. 
  • Stress-Free Shopping – By using Algarve Removals’ online shopping service, you can shop from the comfort of your home, avoiding the hassle of searching for furniture when you arrive in Portugal. This prevents the need for immediate shopping trips, giving you more time to settle in. It also takes the pressure off needing to find the perfect pieces of furniture within the first few weeks of living in Portugal. 
  • Streamlined Logistics – The logistics of international shipping can be complex and costly. We can simplify the process, offering a cost-effective solution for transporting your new furniture. Our expertise in home removals from the UK to Portugal ensures that your orders are handled with care. With our professional service, you avoid the delays often associated with international freight, ensuring a smooth transition to your new home.
  • Enhanced Comfort and Functionality – Ordering new furniture allows you to choose pieces specifically for your new home, suiting the unique layout of your space. This means every piece can contribute to a more comfortable and practical living environment, tailored to your new way of life. Ultimately, the right furniture enhances both the aesthetics and the livability of your home.
  • Making a House a Home – Furnishing your new home with carefully selected pieces can help create a sense of belonging from the moment you move. Your new living space will immediately reflect your personal style, creating a welcoming space that feels like home. This benefit is crucial during the transition to a new country, helping to ease the settling-in process and making your new house feel like a home sooner.

Arranging Home Removal from the UK to Portugal

If you’re considering ordering new furniture for your home in Portugal, Algarve Removals’ innovative online shopping service streamlines the process. By enlisting our help to furnish your home, you can focus on the excitement of your new adventure. You can find out more about our online shopping service on our website and don’t hesitate to get in touch with our team if you have any questions about ordering furniture to our UK depot.

Here at Algarve Removals, we understand the complexities of an international relocation. We offer comprehensive services to help with your home removal from the UK to Portugal, including packing services and storage services. With over thirty years of experience in the removal industry, you can turn to us in confidence for the assistance you need. We pride ourselves on the quality of our international removal service and customer satisfaction is very important to us.

When you’re planning a house move, especially an international one, the process can seem quite daunting. There is so much to think about and deciding how to get all of your belongings from A to B requires careful planning. While lots of smaller items can fit into suitcases or boxes, moving your furniture is slightly more difficult. This is where expert furniture removal services can be beneficial. The help of a removal team can transform a potentially stressful experience into a smooth, well-organised move. Here’s how professional furniture removal services can be beneficial for your upcoming move to Portugal. 

Safety and Security

The main concern during any move is the safety and security of your belongings. Professional furniture removal companies have skilled teams who know exactly how to pack, handle and transport items of all shapes and sizes. With their expertise, your furniture is less likely to be damaged during transit and you can have peace of mind from start to finish. Not to mention, removal services typically include insurance cover, ensuring your belongings are protected against any unforeseen circumstances.

Efficiency and Reliability

One of the many benefits of hiring experts to assist you with your furniture is their efficiency. Professional movers have the experience and equipment required to safely pack and transport furniture. They can dismantle and reassemble pieces, navigate tricky spaces and handle heavy lifting, which speeds up the process whilst reducing the risk of injury or property damage. Their reliability also means they will stick to scheduled timeframes, ensuring your furniture arrives in Portugal when expected.

Customised Solutions

Every house move is unique and expert removal teams understand this. They offer tailored solutions to meet your individual needs and will quote your move based on the number and type of belongings you own. Whether you’re moving from a one-bedroom flat or a four-bedroom house, they can accommodate different requirements and provide a personalised service that aligns with your specific situation.

Stress Reduction

Moving, particularly to another country, can be incredibly stressful. When you book furniture removal services, an experienced team will take on the burden of the physical move, allowing you to focus on other important aspects of the relocation. They will handle the logistics from door to door and this will give you one less thing to worry about. Removal companies will alleviate a considerable amount of stress and you can enjoy a smoother transition.

Cost-Effectiveness

While some people might consider DIY moving to save costs, this can be a complicated option when you’re moving to Portugal from the UK. Professional services can actually be more cost-effective in the long run. They provide all necessary packing materials, equipment and transportation, which can be costly and time-consuming to arrange independently. Not to mention, their expertise reduces the risk of costly damages or the need for repairs.

Managing Logistics

Managing the logistics of moving furniture involves more than just transportation, it requires expert planning and execution. Furniture removal teams have invaluable expertise, ensuring timely and secure delivery of your belongings. They can handle any complex customs rules and regulations, helping to avoid potential delays. From loading to unloading, they will ensure every stage of the move is organised for a seamless transition.

Comprehensive Services

Many expert removal companies offer additional services like storage solutions, which can be incredibly useful if your new home in Portugal isn’t ready immediately. You can rest assured that your items will be stored in a secure and alarmed storage facility, and can be delivered to your house at a time that’s convenient for you. These comprehensive services simplify the process of moving, providing a one-stop solution for all your needs.

Booking Furniture Removals to Portugal

Deciding to book expert furniture removal services for your move to Portugal can be hugely beneficial and you can trust that your belongings will make it to your new home in one piece. With their skills, experience and end-to-end support, your move will be a more enjoyable experience. From safe packing to efficient transportation, a removals team can streamline your relocation process, so you can embark on your new adventure with confidence and ease.

Our team at Algarve Removals will be happy to help you with your upcoming move. We specialise in international relocations and have lots of experience supporting people with their move from the UK to Portugal. With over three decades of experience in the removal industry, you can rely on us to provide you with the professional support you need and you won’t be disappointed with the service we provide. To find out more about the different services we offer, explore the rest of our website or get in touch with us today.

Relocating to Portugal from the UK can be an exciting new chapter in your life. Whether you’re moving for a new job, retirement or a change of scenery, it’s an opportunity to make lots of new memories in your new home. However, transitioning to a different country comes with its own set of challenges and it requires careful planning and preparation. 

To help you navigate this significant life change, here are some useful tips that can make your relocation to Portugal as enjoyable and stress-free as possible. So, you can ensure you are well-equipped to start your new adventure on the right foot. 

Research and Plan Ahead

Thorough research is key to any successful move. It’s important to understand the legalities of relocating abroad, such as visa requirements, residency permits and tax implications. Familiarise yourself with the cost of living in different regions of Portugal to choose a location that suits your lifestyle and budget. Also, consider the job market and employment opportunities if you plan to work in Portugal, as this can influence your choice of location. Of course, it’s crucial to explore school districts if you have a family too. 

Learn the Language

While lots of people in Portugal speak English, especially in main tourist areas and larger cities, learning Portuguese can have a huge impact on your moving experience. It will help you navigate daily life and feel like part of the community, not to mention show respect for the local culture. Taking a language course or using language learning apps before your move can give you a head start in communication and everyday interactions.

Book a Professional Removal Service

For a hassle-free move, consider hiring a removal company that specialises in relocating to Portugal from the UK. These companies will offer services tailored to your specific needs, from full packing services to storage services, ensuring safe and efficient transport of your belongings. They can also take care of customs documents and procedures for you, so you have one less thing to worry about. 

From collection to delivery, experienced removal teams will ensure everything goes smoothly. You can focus on other aspects of your move knowing that these experts have the skills and expertise required to handle the logistics of your relocation. By choosing professional removal services, you not only streamline the moving process but also take the hassle out of getting all of your belongings from one place to another. 

Manage Your Finances

It’s beneficial to open a bank account in Portugal and learn how to transfer your money internationally with minimal fees. Tell your bank that you’re moving too, to avoid any complications with your UK accounts. Make sure you also understand the tax system in Portugal and how it affects expats. For instance, what are the implications for any pensions or investments you have? These may be subject to different regulations in Portugal.

Health and Insurance

Before you leave the UK, check you have adequate health insurance for your move. When living in Portugal, make sure you register with the local healthcare system. The UK Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) or a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) can provide you with access to state healthcare in Portugal. It’s also a good idea to familiarise yourself with the locations of hospitals and clinics near your new home.

Housing Considerations

Decide whether you want to rent or buy a property in Portugal. Renting initially can be a wise choice, giving you the flexibility to explore different areas before settling down long-term. Contact local estate agents to help you navigate the housing market and any legal requirements you need to know about. Keep in mind that property laws and tenant rights might differ from those in the UK, so it’s important to understand these fully.

Prepare for the Climate

Portugal has a diverse climate. The north has cooler and rainier weather, while the south, especially the Algarve region, has a Mediterranean climate. Prepare for your move accordingly with appropriate clothing and home necessities. If you’re not used to living in a warmer climate, it’s also important to consider how the change may affect your daily routines and health. Do some research into tips that will help you cope with the weather changes. 

Stay Positive and Patient

There is no denying that moving to a new country can have its challenges, but maintaining a positive attitude and being patient as you adjust to your new surroundings is important. Embrace this adventure and the learning experiences that come with it. Remember, it’s normal to experience a range of emotions during a relocation to a new country, and giving yourself time to adapt is key to a successful move.

Relocating to Portugal from the UK

All in all, relocating to Portugal from the UK is a journey that requires careful planning and an open mind. By following these tips and seeking the right support, your move to Portugal can be an enjoyable and fulfilling adventure. If you’re trying to arrange professional removal services to help you with your relocation, contact us at Algarve Removals

We are a family-run company with many years of experience assisting homeowners with international relocations. We understand how difficult it can be to arrange a move to Portugal and we are here to make the whole process much less hassle. Our team can provide you with first-hand advice to help you prepare for your move and ensure a smooth transition. We look forward to supporting you in this new chapter in your life.

Moving to Portugal Tips n Tricks

Cost of Living In The Algarve PortugalCost of living in Portugal is 23.99% lower than in United Kingdom (aggregate data for all cities, rent is not taken into account). Rent in Portugal is 41.64% lower than in United Kingdom (average data for all cities). (Data taken August 2017)

To Find out How Much it would cost to relocate to the Algarve Contact us for a quotation:

 

 

 

Restaurants Range
Meal, Inexpensive Restaurant 7.00 € 5.509.00
Meal for 2 People, Mid-range Restaurant, Three-course 30.00 € 20.0040.00
McMeal at McDonalds (or Equivalent Combo Meal) 5.70 € 5.006.00
Domestic Beer (0.5 liter draught) 1.50 € 1.002.00
Imported Beer (0.33 liter bottle) 2.00 € 1.033.00
Cappuccino (regular) 1.18 € 0.702.00
Coke/Pepsi (0.33 liter bottle) 1.17 € 1.001.50
Water (0.33 liter bottle) 0.85 € 0.501.00
Markets
Milk (regular), (1 liter) 0.58 € 0.490.75
Loaf of Fresh White Bread (500g) 1.02 € 0.741.50
Rice (white), (1kg) 0.83 € 0.651.00
Eggs (regular) (12) 1.59 € 1.202.00
Local Cheese (1kg) 7.30 € 5.0010.00
Chicken Breasts (Boneless, Skinless), (1kg) 5.29 € 3.797.00
Beef Round (1kg) (or Equivalent Back Leg Red Meat) 8.58 € 6.0012.00
Apples (1kg) 1.39 € 1.001.99
Banana (1kg) 1.10 € 0.901.70
Oranges (1kg) 1.12 € 0.801.60
Tomato (1kg) 1.30 € 0.901.99
Potato (1kg) 0.75 € 0.501.10
Onion (1kg) 0.81 € 0.501.34
Lettuce (1 head) 0.86 € 0.501.40
Water (1.5 liter bottle) 0.53 € 0.201.00
Bottle of Wine (Mid-Range) 4.00 € 3.005.00
Domestic Beer (0.5 liter bottle) 0.93 € 0.601.50
Imported Beer (0.33 liter bottle) 1.39 € 0.802.09
Pack of Cigarettes (Marlboro) 4.80 € 4.505.00
Transportation
One-way Ticket (Local Transport) 1.50 € 1.201.85
Monthly Pass (Regular Price) 35.65 € 30.0042.65
Taxi Start (Normal Tariff) 3.40 € 3.003.90
Taxi 1km (Normal Tariff) 0.51 € 0.471.00
Taxi 1hour Waiting (Normal Tariff) 14.80 € 14.0020.00
Gasoline (1 liter) 1.44 € 1.301.53
Volkswagen Golf 1.4 90 KW Trendline (Or Equivalent New Car) 25,000.00 € 21,000.0027,000.00
Toyota Corolla 1.6l 97kW Comfort (Or Equivalent New Car) 24,482.05 € 21,400.0028,000.00
Utilities (Monthly)
Basic (Electricity, Heating, Water, Garbage) for 85m2 Apartment 88.06 € 51.00130.00
1 min. of Prepaid Mobile Tariff Local (No Discounts or Plans) 0.14 € 0.080.27
Internet (60 Mbps or More, Unlimited Data, Cable/ADSL) 26.71 € 20.0038.00
Sports And Leisure
Fitness Club, Monthly Fee for 1 Adult 35.25 € 27.5050.00
Tennis Court Rent (1 Hour on Weekend) 11.46 € 5.0020.00
Cinema, International Release, 1 Seat 6.00 € 6.007.00
Childcare
Preschool (or Kindergarten), Private, Monthly for 1 Child 414.80 € 300.00650.00
International Primary School, Yearly for 1 Child 9,940.74 € 6,000.0011,000.00
Clothing And Shoes
1 Pair of Jeans (Levis 501 Or Similar) 78.23 € 45.00100.00
1 Summer Dress in a Chain Store (Zara, H&M, …) 27.78 € 20.0040.00
1 Pair of Nike Running Shoes (Mid-Range) 70.40 € 50.0096.00
1 Pair of Men Leather Business Shoes 77.18 € 50.00120.00
Rent Per Month
Apartment (1 bedroom) in City Centre 490.24 € 300.00750.00
Apartment (1 bedroom) Outside of Centre 340.51 € 250.00500.00
Apartment (3 bedrooms) in City Centre 859.98 € 500.001,400.00
Apartment (3 bedrooms) Outside of Centre 582.79 € 390.00900.00
Buy Apartment Price
Price per Square Meter to Buy Apartment in City Centre 1,831.75 € 1,000.003,379.00
Price per Square Meter to Buy Apartment Outside of Centre 1,151.65 € 850.001,750.00
Salaries And Financing
Average Monthly Net Salary (After Tax) 805.04 €
Mortgage Interest Rate in Percentages (%), Yearly 3.03 2.004.50

Prices in Portugal

These data are based on 13741 entries in the past 18 months from 1210 different contributors.
Last update: August 2017
Our data for each country are based on all entries from all cities in that country.

 

 

To Find out How Much it would cost to relocate to the Algarve Contact us for a quotation:

 

Algarve Removals is a family run, international relocation company. We have over 15 years’ experience in the Transport and Removals Trade. We now specialise in offering our clients a more professional and convenient solution when moving to The Algarve, Portugal.

At Algarve Removals we can assure you that your personal effects will be treated with utmost care, ensuring you with a trouble-free removal from start to finish. Moving to The Algarve could not be simpler, as we are here to give you first hand advice on moving abroad.

We offer a removal service from 1 box to a full house, and provide 3 choices of service, which makes your removal very cost effective:

Door to Door | Door to Depot | Depot to Depot

Fill out our Online Quote Forms for an easy and obligation free quote. We will answer any questions you have, using our vast first-hand knowledge and experience of relocating to Portugal and back to the UK and Ireland.

Please also visit our packing and storage service pages for more information on the different types of services we can offer.

Car Exports to Portugal

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Moving to Portugal Tips n Tricks

Moving to Portugal Tips n TricksWe have compiled a collection of helpful tips, useful websites and general information for those looking to move to Portugal. If you have any suggestions or can recommend any interesting websites – I’d love to hear from you…

To Find out How Much it would cost to relocate to the Algarve Contact us for a quotation:

 

 

1. Many motorways in Portugal have tolls. Some have tollbooths, but others only have an electronic system for paying, which is operated by Via Verde Portugal. Toll machines can be hired or bought in special Via Verde shops or at Portuguese post offices. If you end up on a Via Verde without a toll machine, you will need to pay the toll within 48 hours or you will earn a fine on top of the toll fee.

2. Attending school is compulsory in Portugal from the ages of six to fifteen and is called Ensino Básico (basic education). Education can either be state or private. Despite education being free in the state system, you will be expected to purchase books and other equipment.

3. Before the age of six, your child can attend a pre-school (kindergarten) if you so wish. There are a variety of types of pre-school, including state, private, charitable and cooperatives. Registration occurs during June and July. Requirements are typically a medical check, birth certificate, health card showing vaccinations and an inscription form.

4.There are also private schools teaching the Portuguese national curriculum and others that teach an international curriculum in various foreign languages. However, very few of these schools will go up to the secondary level. The schools should be registered with the Portuguese Ministry of Education. Note that an international curriculum is not automatically accepted by the Portuguese education system and so this should be considered when you are selecting a school and curriculum.

5. Once living in Portugal, you can apply for a Cartão de Utente (health card). This card gives foreign residents the same rights to treatment as Portuguese citizens and depending on circumstances, discounts on medicines. If you do not have this card and are permanently resident in Portugal, you will need to have private medical insurance.

6. Farmácias (chemists) are open in every town during normal shopping hours, which are typically 9 A.M. to 1 P.M. and 3 P.M. to 7 P.M. Outside of these hours there is a Farmácia de Serviço (duty chemist) available. Every chemist should have a list of the duty chemists in the area on its door. A chemist can also usually offer advice when you are unable to get to your health centre or family doctor.

7. As with all big decisions in life, research is the key and one must always remember that living somewhere is completely different to holidaying there.

8. Relocating on a permanent basis to another country, especially one which has a different language and culture, needs thorough planning. If you have children and need to work, this is even more crucial.

9. Initial Residency Certificate: After three months, and within 30 days, you must apply for an initial residency certificate at your local Câmara Municipal (council) or Freguesia (parish council).

10. The documents that may be required are a passport or national ID card, your Portuguese fiscal number, which is obtained from the local Serviço das Finanças (tax office), a European health card, proof of address and income (or you may simply be required to make a self-declaration regarding whether you are employed, self-employed or have other means to live), and proof of health insurance if you are not entitled to the Portuguese health system. Sometimes other details regarding your education and family are required.

 

To Find out How Much it would cost to relocate to the Algarve Contact us for a quotation:

 

Algarve Removals is a family run, international relocation company. We have over 15 years’ experience in the Transport and Removals Trade. We now specialise in offering our clients a more professional and convenient solution when moving to The Algarve, Portugal.

At Algarve Removals we can assure you that your personal effects will be treated with utmost care, ensuring you with a trouble-free removal from start to finish. Moving to The Algarve could not be simpler, as we are here to give you first hand advice on moving abroad.

We offer a removal service from 1 box to a full house, and provide 3 choices of service, which makes your removal very cost effective:

Door to Door | Door to Depot | Depot to Depot

Fill out our Online Quote Forms for an easy and obligation free quote. We will answer any questions you have, using our vast first-hand knowledge and experience of relocating to Portugal and back to the UK and Ireland.

Please also visit our packing and storage service pages for more information on the different types of services we can offer.

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10 Reasons to Move to the Algarve in Portugal

10 Reasons to Move to the Algarve in PortugalAlgarve Removals have for many years been moving our clients from the UK to Portugal, those relocating for business or retirement puroposes and those lucky enough to have a second home and not forgetting all the businesses that we transport goods for.

To Find out How Much it would cost to relocate to the Algarve Contact us for a quotation:

So we have compiled the Top 10 Reasons to Move to the Algarve in Portugal

1. Climate

3,000 hours of sunshine per year, cooling ocean breezes to moderate the summer heat, and seasonal rainfall all contribute to a great climate. No wonder Andalusians have been snapping up holiday homes in the area!

Boca-de-rio-beach-2
Boca de Rio Beach

2. Accessibility

Faro is among the best-served warm weather destinations for cheap flights from UK and European cities. The 2h 30m flight time puts it within easy weekend reach. A modern, fast motorway network connects the Western Algarve to Faro, Seville, Lisbon and beyond.

10 Reasons to Move to the Algarve in Portugal3. Easy Getting Around

Traffic is light, congestion non-existent and parking easy.

4. People and Community

The local Portuguese are friendly, tolerant, welcoming, and most speak English. There is a sizeable expat community drawn from many European countries, with the British and Irish accounting for more than half. Brits have been settling in the Algarve for more than 30 years, and are well established and represented in local business and social structures. There is excellent, inexpensive, English language private education to GCSE level, a thriving Anglican church, plus Lions, Rotarians, an Anglo-Portuguese Chamber of Commerce and other bodies.

5. Environment

The air and water are clean and the countryside unspoilt, with a low population and lots of wide, open space. There is no industry or large-scale agriculture. A strict national planning regime preserves areas of special biological interest and protects from over-development. West of Lagos lies the Costa Vicentina Nature Park, with its 150 km of protected coastline, its dramatic cliff and rock formations, and some of the best beaches anywhere.

10 Reasons to Move to the Algarve in Portugal6. Sports and Leisure Opportunities

The Algarve has 35 golf courses, including some of Europe’s best. The Western Algarve includes the recently re-designed 27-hole Palmares course, with its links holes and magnificent ocean views, as well as Boavista, Parque da Floresta and the soon-to-be-opened course at Espiche.

As regards water sports, the west is the best for surfing, windsurfing, parasailing, sport fishing, yacht charters and sailing courses, with water-skiing, scuba diving and sport fishing also very well served.

There are great facilities for tennis, padel, squash, bowls, mountain biking, blo-karting and microlite flying. Many of the cliffs in the Sagres area are now marked out with climbing pitches.

The Kartódromo go-kart track at Portimão’s Autódromo is among the world’s premier karting venues, while the Autódromo itself is on the World Superbike Championship circuit.

The Sagres peninsula is a superb location for bird-watching, particularly during the seasonal migrations. Sagres is also at the western end of the Rota Vicentina, a walking trail that winds its way through 300 kilometres of the Algarve’s most beautiful countryside.

Algarve theme parks include Slide ‘n’ Splash, Aqualand, Zoomarine and the Fiesa sand sculpture park. The zoo at Barão S. João is focused on conservation and protection, and is a model of modern practice, with beautiful habitats for its 120 species, as well as a petting zoo for children.

The Department of Tourism sponsors Allgarve, a year-round programme of world-class cultural and sporting events, while the municipal cultural centres host concerts, art exhibitions and other activities.

7. Food and Drink

One of Portugal’s best-kept secrets is its gastronomy. Olives, figs, almonds, pine nuts, grapes and citrus, plus a wide range of seasonal produce including sweet potatoes, are all grown locally. Cheeses, particularly blended soft cheeses, cured hams, and the famous acorn-fed black pork from the Alentejo, are all excellent, as is the olive oil.

At the local fish markets you can find freshly caught Atlantic sea bass, stone bass and golden bream among other varieties, as well as oysters, mussels, clams, and a local delicacy perceves or goose barnacles.

The tradition of wine-making dates from ancient times, with Portugal even exporting to Rome during the Roman occupation. Best known for port, which is produced by a unique vinification method in the unique micro-climate of the Douro valley, Portugal actually possesses a wide array of native varietals and distinct regions, resulting in an abundant variety of excellent wines.

Modern techniques and equipment have transformed Algarve wine production, so that there are now some very good local boutique vineyards, such as Quinta do Barranco Longo in Algoz.

10 Reasons to Move to the Algarve in Portugal8. Reasonable Cost of Living

While the cheaper pound makes Portugal more expensive for Brits, it is still one of Europe’s lower-cost destinations. Property prices in the Western Algarve compare favourably to Spain and, while petrol and utility prices are relatively high, wages in Portugal are much lower than in Northern Europe. This means that basic living costs such as property ownership taxes, public transport and health are low, with services generally cheaper than in Northern Europe. Locally produced food and drink, beer, wines, spirits and cigarettes are also inexpensive.

It is worth noting that there is a favourable tax regime applicable to foreigners taking up residence in Portugal after 1st January 2010. Portuguese-sourced income from “high value-added activities” is subject to a low tax rate ceiling, while foreign-sourced income is not taxed in Portugal if it has already been taxed under an applicable double-taxation treaty.

9. Stable Political, Economic and Business Environment

Portugal joined the European Union in 1986 and has been part of the eurozone since its inception. As one of the poorer EU nations, Portugal has been the recipient of European structural funds to improve infrastructures. modernise industry and make businesses more competitive. The much lower interest rates under eurozone membership have stimulated home ownership and the economy generally, up until the current eurozone crisis.

Although bureaucracy is still an issue, there has been a gradual shift to easier, more transparent processes, and a marked reduction in tax evasion, corruption and fraud.

10. Good Health Services

The free national health service does a very good job of dealing with acute and emergency conditions, as well as routinely recurring procedures such as vaccinations. Waiting lists for non-emergency surgical procedures are limited to six months, or one year, depending upon the procedure. The cost of prescription medicines is subsidised and tax-deductible. The national health service is complemented by a network of private practices and hospitals, which are relatively Inexpensive. Private health insurance is also reasonably priced. Both dental and vetinary care are of a high standard and very reasonably priced.

To Find out How Much it would cost to relocate to the Algarve Contact us for a quotation:

Algarve Removals is a family run, international relocation company. We have over 15 years’ experience in the Transport and Removals Trade. We now specialise in offering our clients a more professional and convenient solution when moving to The Algarve, Portugal.

At Algarve Removals we can assure you that your personal effects will be treated with utmost care, ensuring you with a trouble-free removal from start to finish. Moving to The Algarve could not be simpler, as we are here to give you first hand advice on moving abroad.

We offer a removal service from 1 box to a full house, and provide 3 choices of service, which makes your removal very cost effective:

Door to Door | Door to Depot | Depot to Depot

Fill out our Online Quote Forms for an easy and obligation free quote. We will answer any questions you have, using our vast first-hand knowledge and experience of relocating to Portugal and back to the UK and Ireland.

Please also visit our packing and storage service pages for more information on the different types of services we can offer.