Expat in Portugal warns of the biggest difference when moving there - 'it was very difficult for me to understand'

While there is a big expat community in parts of Portugal, those looking to move there should be prepared for a culture shock.

One man who relocated to Portugal shared some of his thoughts on YouTube channel Algarve Addicts.

He listed many of the pros and cons of living in Portugal, with weather, food and healthcare among the best things. However, some factors were not as good - such as culture, bureaucracy and low salaries.

The expat explained the culture can take some getting used to. He said: "It's hard to say this, but the culture of Portugal has been very, very difficult for me to understand."

He added when he arrived the sun was shining, people were friendly and the food was good, "but the minute you dig deep into it you realise there is a massive culture difference between Portugal and many other places in the world".

Expats planning to move to the country should be prepared for differences when settling in.

Residents, particularly "older people", will "tell you what you want to know if you ask a question, but they won't use initiative and tell you anything else", the YouTuber explained.

He added there is a "very, very slow pace of life" that is also part of the culture and it can be difficult to get used to.

The slower pace of life comes with a "slower pace of business too" - "things take a long time to get done".

Britons should do their research before making a move to be best prepared for potential differences in a new country.

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Another place that is extremely popular with expats is Spain. One man living in the country shared a common misconception about moving there.

He explained: "Lots of people romanticise about moving to a country like Spain and think it's going to be a breeze and be a piece of cake, but it's not the case.

"It's a huge move and it's a huge change for a lot of people and that means you've got to do your research. That is fundamental."

He added "there will be culture shocks" that some people may not expect to find.