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Hi @Kevih, Welcome.

There are small communities of English-speaking expats all over Portugal, not just in the Algarve, but also in the centre and north.

Make a trip, but don't just stay in the Algarve. I suggest you visit the Silver Coast, for example.

Best Regards

Algarve is the best!! Has all that you mentioned! but be forewarned.

*cant find a rental for the required 12 months!

And Its freezing in the winter!! homes are not properly insulated nor offer any good heating options! some days its colder indoors than outside!!

Thanks JohnnyPT

We'll probably end up checking that out too. Winter weather is an important element which is why we are starting the search in the algarve.

@stephinnc

Thanks Stephinnc

That's actually very interesting and something we hadn't considered.

It is a good idea of basic research/reading on what others have done and encountered on similar quests - it is a very common subject on expat forums -  then you may not waste your time by repeat the same and instead seek alternatives.

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@Kevih,

Please note that most rentals in the Algarve are seasonal, i.e. the months from June to September are rented separately.

On the other hand, as an EU citizen, you don't have the problem reported by @stephinnc, since renting for 12 months is a requirement for obtaining a visa for non EU citizens.

Outside of Lisbon, Cascais/Estoril has the most active expat community and the area also has a good micro-climate. Plus it is easy to get to Lisbon when there is a need to do so. If you can afford it, it is definitely a good place to live.

The Silver Coast doesn't have such a sunny climate and is often very foggy. I assume (!) that is the reason for the name. Maybe make a table of your requirements and locations and fill in how each region meets the requirements.

@Kevih

Hello, the Algarve is nice with lots of English speakers. I live in Peniche as I prefer the more moderate climate while still being on the coast. I find many Portuguese speak English and I'm learning basics lol

@Kevih

Hi Kevin,

I'll be visiting Portugal in mid/late January, and staying in Coimbra. I've already been contacted by a couple of people (expat and Portuguese) willing to meet, introduce me to other expats, and answer any questions I may have. I've found one couple from here, and another from a FB group. All have been really nice.

Why Coimbra? It is centrally located, which means it will be possible to make one day trips to almost anywhere in Portugal (I do expect to make 1 or 2 two or three day trips). It is a larger city (still small compared to Lisbon and Porto) so it has good access to public transportation to get anywhere in Portugal. Also, the rentals here are cheaper than in the Algarve or larger cities.

Why January? It's during the worst weather to visit so if I do move there, there will be no unpleasant surprises.

Anyway, I wish you all of the luck and good experience during your exploratory trips, and eventual move.

Matthew

I hop that you will enjoy your exploration and find what you are looking for. Lisbon would have been more central and easier for travel by public transport, but you might rent a car anyway. Can we assume that your decision with regards to Portugal is fixed and this is only about where in the country?