For Patricia Wells, moving to Portugal from the UK in her later years was the start of a new adventure. She explains: “On retirement, we were looking for a challenge in our ‘Third Age’: a new experience, a different culture and the opportunity to acquire another language.”

Patricia is one of a growing cohort of retirees who don’t simply want to stop – they want to rebalance and explore while also being able to socialise, enjoy cultural pursuits and focus of health and fitness.

Portugal has a great deal to offer those looking to do this somewhere tranquil and safe. The country ranks 7th in the 2024 Global Peace Index; the UK ranks 34th. Portugal also boasts the 16th lowest crime index score in Europe, according to the Numbeo Crime Index.

In addition to its tranquillity and sunshine, Portugal also offers a wealth of cultural pursuits, with everything from art and music to philosophy held in high regard. The better weather is, of course, an intrinsic part of the appeal, enabling residents to engage in an active, outdoor lifestyle almost year-round.

Christina Hippisley, General Manager of the Portuguese Chamber of Commerce in the UK, which organises the free-to-attend Moving to Portugal Show and Seminars, has seen a notable shift in recent years when it comes to what retirees are seeking from Portugal. She comments:

“Portugal still ticks all the same boxes in terms of affordability, stunning scenery, outstanding food and wine, and an easy relocation experience, but it now offers something more for those seeking active later living. We’ve seen new resorts spring up that cater specifically to those who want to retire, or semi-retire, and in so doing start a whole new adventure.”

For older people, relocating to Portugal is also easy from a visa perspective. The country provides a D7 visa scheme specifically aimed at older movers with a regular passive income. Under the terms of the visa, they are free to work in Portugal too, providing plenty of flexibility for those who want to rebalance leisure and work without giving up the latter entirely.

The Moving to Portugal Show and Seminars will take place in London on 17th October 2024. Taking place at London’s Pestana Chelsea Bridge Hotel, the event will provide delegates with access to a wide range of expertise relating to relocating to Portugal. Tickets for the event are free and can be booked online at https://MTP-London.eventbrite.co.uk

For more information, please contact the Portuguese Chamber of Commerce in the UK: www.portuguese-chamber.org.uk or www.movingtoportugal.org.uk, tel 00 44 7463 689666.