5 Reasons Why Single Females Are Retiring in Portugal

When I spent nearly one month living and working in the southwestern corner of Portugal in a small village of winemakers just outside Santerém, I fell in love with the country. The people were incredibly warm and welcoming, and I felt completely safe the entire time.

Everywhere I looked, there were orange trees, lemon trees, or olive trees, all laden with fruit that would sometimes fall and rot on the ground. It was such a fertile and bountiful place that it almost seemed like a paradise, and every meter of soil was put to good use.

What was truly amazing was how affordable the whole experience was. Including my flights from England, the entire trip cost me less than £300. For the beauty, friendliness, and cultural richness I experienced, it was a genuine bargain. 

One of the things that struck me about Portugal was how different it was from Italy in terms of how people reacted to strangers. People would look at me as I walked down the street, often doing a double take, but no one ever catcalled or made me feel uncomfortable. The Portuguese are respectful and kind, which made me feel at ease even though I didn't speak a word of Portuguese.

I was pleasantly surprised by how often I could communicate with the locals in Spanish, and they would understand me, and I could understand them. This made daily interactions much easier and made me feel more connected to the community.

During my visit, I stayed and worked with an English retired police officer who had also fallen in love with Portugal. She loathed the idea of living in the UK and wasn't afraid to share her reasons. Her enthusiasm for Portugal was contagious and validated my own feelings about the place. I also had the opportunity to speak with other single females who had retired in Portugal, and they all echoed the same sentiments about the affordability, safety, community, healthcare, and leisure activities in the country.

Contemplating a retirement destination is a significant step for everyone. However, Portugal has emerged as a distinctive choice for single women worldwide. Let's delve into five unique reasons why Portugal is increasingly becoming the retirement haven for single females. Here are the 5 Reasons Why Single Females Are Retiring in Portugal

1. Affordable Living Costs

Portugal, with its very affordable cost of living, offers financial security that is hard to find in many other countries. The prices for housing, food, and healthcare are much lower, allowing your retirement savings to stretch further. This means you can live comfortably without worrying about running out of money, giving you a strong sense of financial security in your retirement years.

2. Beautiful and Safe Environment

Portugal, with its beautiful scenery, including stunning beaches, charming towns, and lush countryside, offers a sense of security that is hard to match. It is one of the safest countries in the world, with a low crime rate that gives single women a strong sense of peace and security. This makes it a perfect place to relax and enjoy their retirement years, knowing they are in a safe and secure environment.

3. Welcoming Community

The Portuguese people, known for their friendly and welcoming nature, create an atmosphere that makes it easier for single females to feel at home. This supportive community makes it easier to build a new social network, whether you are in a big city or a small town. There are numerous ways to meet people, from joining local community groups to attending expat meetups. You can expect to be greeted with warmth and kindness, making you feel accepted and part of a community.

4. Excellent Healthcare

Healthcare is a major concern for anyone considering moving. Portugal offers high-quality healthcare services at a fraction of the cost compared to the United States and many European countries. The country has both public and private healthcare systems, with well-trained doctors, many of whom speak English, and modern facilities. Accessing healthcare is straightforward, with a range of health centres and hospitals available across the country.

5. Rich Culture and Leisure Activities

There is no shortage of things to do in Portugal. From exploring historic sites like the Tower of Belem and the Jeronimos Monastery to enjoying local festivals such as the Festa de Sao Joao and the Festa de Santo Antonio, to relaxing on the beach in Algarve or hiking in beautiful parks like Peneda-Geres National Park, the country offers a rich cultural experience. For women who enjoy an active and engaging lifestyle, Portugal provides endless opportunities to explore and enjoy.

My time in that small Portuguese village left a lasting impression on me. The people, the landscape, and the sense of being part of that special community are memories I will cherish forever. Portugal's affordable living costs, safe environment, welcoming community, excellent healthcare, and vibrant culture make it an ideal place for single females to retire or if you're looking for a change of scenery. For those looking to make the most out of their time on Earth, Portugal is certainly worth considering.

L J Louis is an aspiring international trade lawyer, writer, foodie, and women's advocate with a double major degree in psychology and criminology, a Bachelor of Law(Hons LLB) degree, and an advanced fitness and health promotion diploma. She writes and creates content about human sexuality, sex positivity, health, psychology, and Meghan Markle.

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