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Networking Options in Lisbon for Expats

Relocating is always going to be stressful. There are so many issues to organize, a little help from someone who’s been there and done that is a valuable asset. The need to socialize and make new acquaintances can not be underestimated. So moving to Lisbon or Portugal, in general, does not need to be a lonely experience. Whether you are a digital nomad or retiring, there are many social groups providing advice, friendship, and assistance.

Facebook

In our digital age, Facebook groups are a godsend for many and especially for ex-pats. There are many groups available to serve your needs. Here are just a few of the most popular groups:

  • Expats in Portugal
  • Expats in Lisbon
  • British Expats in Lisbon
  • Lisbon friendship
  • Women of Lisbon
  • Americans in Portugal
  • International friends Lisbon

Meetups

There are numerous ‘Meetups’ in Lisbon depending on your interests. Hiking, language exchange, start-up business, and mindfulness are just a few of the Meetup groups available. You can search the groups in Lisbon here.

InterNations

This community organizes social events for ex-pats in most major cities. Lisbon has a thriving InterNations membership. They help you to connect with other ex-pats in Lisbon as well as provide tips and information to assist you with your relocation. To join some fun events in the city and meet fellow ex-pats, check out their website here.

Expat Info Desk

Check out our site for loads of information, advice, blog posts, resources page, and an ex-pat forum where you can post your query.

GoExpat

This site is full of information to help you with your relocation. If you need advice about relocating services, international health insurance, finances, or safety, GoExpat has a resource page as well as blog posts with tips and advice.

International Women in Portugal

This community provides support and a safe social network for international women in Istanbul. It supports various charities in the city. If you are a digital nomad, there are networking opportunities. Check this site here.

Sporting Clubs

Another great way to meet fellow ex-pats and locals is through sporting clubs.

The Portugal News

This local newspaper is published in English and keeps you up to date with leading news stories, as well as a means of finding out about social events organized for ex-pats.

The Portugal Resident

This local newspaper is also published in English for the ex-pat community. It has all the major stories, as well as information on entertainment and what’s happening in the country.

 

Top Tips

01 When renting a flat, be sure to ask about heating. Portuguese homes are notoriously cold in winter as usually there is no heating. Houses aren’t insulated, and electricity costs are expensive. Therefore, people forgo heating. But be aware, winters are freezing as well as humid. Many ex-pats are surprised at just how severe a Portuguese winter can be.
02 Why not start your day like a local with a café and pastel de nata (traditional custard tart) sitting on an outdoor terrace. What better plaza than Lisbon’s main square Praça do Comércio.
03  Take the Ascensor da Gloria to the top arriving in Bairro Alto. Turn to your right, to find the famous viewpoint of San Pedro de Alcantara. This scenic lookout offers sensational views over the city.
04 Be very vigilant while traveling on the funiculars. Pickpockets are rife, especially in the high season. They will sit close to you, engage in conversation while a partner will take your wallet.

Useful links

https://www.visitlisboa.com/en

The official tourist information site for Lisbon. Find out everything you need to know to make the most of your trip.

https://www.lisbon.net/

Here is another site with information about activities and day trips from Lisbon.

https://imigrante.sef.pt/en/

The official website for Portuguese immigration matters. Find out about visa requirements and how you can gain Portuguese citizenship.

https://www.meetup.com/cities/pt/lisbon/
For information about residence and all immigration-related questions.

https://www.hurriyetdailynews.com/

Lisbon has a large expatriate community. This a great resource to find like-minded people in Lisbon. Whatever your interest, there is probably a group that meets up.

https://www.metrolisboa.pt/en/

This is the Lisbon Metro website in English. You can plan your journey here.

Interesting Facts

1. Portugal produces 50% of the world’s cork. Portuguese cork from the Algarve region is superior and used by Moet Chandon for bottling its famous champagne. Other famous companies like NASA, Rolls Royce, and Airbus prefer to use Portuguese cork.

2. The book shop, Bertrand, is the oldest in the world and you can visit it in Lisbon. It has been doing business since 1732.

3. Nazaré, a coastal town north of Lisbon is famous for its epic waves. It is well-known among surfers to have some of the best and biggest waves in the world. The waves are known to get as high as 30 meters or 100 feet.
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