Top 10 Cultural Differences that Surprise Americans when they Move to Portugal
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Moving to a new country is an exhilarating adventure filled with new experiences, sights, and sounds. It's an opportunity to immerse yourself in a different culture, learn a new language, and broaden one's perspective. However, it can also bring about some pretty serious and unexpected culture shock.
Culture shock refers to the feeling of disorientation experienced by someone when they are suddenly subjected to an unfamiliar culture or way of life, and for Americans moving to Portugal, this can manifest in various ways.
While Portugal offers many comforts and conveniences that Americans are accustomed to, there are also many aspects of Portuguese life that can seem quite foreign and surprising to newcomers.
In this article, we will delve into some of the most common cultural differences that Americans might encounter when moving to Portugal. From the overwhelming kindness of the Portuguese people and the country's impressive safety record to the surprisingly cheap healthcare and the ubiquity of walking around towns, we'll explore the nuances of Portuguese life that might take some getting used to.
Join us as we navigate through these fascinating cultural differences, offering insights and tips to help smooth your transition and minimize culture shock. Whether you're considering a move to Portugal or have already made the leap, this guide aims to help you understand and appreciate the unique charms and quirks of Portuguese culture.
1. Kindness of the Portuguese people
One of the first things many Americans notice after moving to Portugal is the overwhelming kindness of the Portuguese people. Back in the US, people are generally friendly in a customer-service-kind-of-way, but the genuine, honest, warmth and hospitality you’ll get from the Portuguese is on a different level.
We hear regular stories about lost wallets getting returned with all the money still inside, for instance, and whether it's a shopkeeper going out of their way to help you find a product or a neighbor leaving you a bag of oranges or lemons on your doorstep for no reason other than thoughtfulness, the kindness here is genuine and heartfelt.
2. Safety and lack of crime
Any of our clients coming from big cities in the US are used to always being on their guard, especially at night - and that’s if they venture out into downtown at all. However, in Portugal, the sense of safety is palpable. The crime rate is significantly lower, and gun crime is almost zero, and it's common to see people, including women, walking around alone late at night without any fear. I, for one, could not name a single street in Lisbon or any other city in Portugal that I would avoid walking down alone late at night, and having lived here now for over 10 years, it’s just become normal.
A refreshing change for anyone coming from the States.
3. Cheap healthcare
Healthcare in the US can be a financial burden, even with insurance. Here, you will be pleasantly surprised by the affordability of the Portuguese healthcare system. Not only is the quality of care excellent, but the costs are significantly lower. Routine doctor's visits, medications, and even surgeries are much more affordable, often almost free if you are using the public systemm, easing a lot of the stress associated with healthcare.
4. Walking around towns
In the US, people are way too used to driving everywhere, but in Portugal, towns and cities are designed for walking. It's common to see people strolling around town or to the market, or walking to work, which of course contributes to a much healthier lifestyle, greatly reduced levels of obesity compared to the US (in spite of the Portuguese love of doughnuts for breakfast!) and allows you to appreciate the beauty of the surroundings more.
5. The cost of wine in supermarkets
Wine lovers will be thrilled to discover the affordability of very good wine in Portugal.
Back in the US (or most of Northern Europe), a good bottle of wine could easily set you back €10-15, more in a restaurant of course, but here, you can find excellent local wines in supermarkets for €3-4. That’s not a typo. €3. A bottle of good wine that’s cheaper than a bottle of water in the US.
It can make enjoying a glass of wine with dinner or while watching the sunset a daily pleasure rather than a luxury.
6. The total disregard for ‘sensible’ bedtimes
I love this so much. One aspect of Portuguese culture that surprised me was the late-night socializing, even among families with small children and older adults. Back in the US, it's common for families, especially those with young children, to head home early. However, in Portugal, it's not unusual to see entire families, from toddlers to grandparents, out and about at midnight on a Saturday night, in restaurants, at festivals, or simply walking the streets and having an ice cream, however this is particularly evident during family festivals, where the celebrations are a community affair and can go on into the wee hours and many a sleeping toddler will be seen getting carried home at 2am. It's a testament to the strong family bonds and the vibrant social life in Portugal.
7. Clothes lines & lack of AC
One of the charming quirks of life in Portugal is the common use of clothes lines. Back in the US, clothes dryers are way too commonplace, even in hot and dry climates, but here, it's common to see clothes drying in the fresh air. Similarly, air conditioning is not as prevalent as it is in the US. Instead, homes are designed to stay cool naturally, which is not only eco-friendly but also adds to the rustic charm of Portuguese life.
8. Take a ticket!
In Portugal, whether you're at the bakery, the bank, or the doctor's office, you'll often see a small machine at the entrance: the ticket dispenser. This was a bit strange to anyone coming from the US at first, where people often queue in line, but here you invariably will need to grab a numbered ticket. But you’ll come to appreciate this system. It's efficient, fair, and allows everyone to relax while waiting their turn.
9. Drinking in the street
In the US, public drinking is generally frowned upon, if not outright illegal. But in Portugal, it's not uncommon to see people enjoying a beer or a glass of wine in public spaces, especially on warm evenings. It's a casual, social activity, and as long as it's done responsibly, it's accepted as part of the local culture.
10. Paid time off for workers
One of the biggest shocks for anyone coming to work in Portugal is the difference in paid time off.
In the US, where 10-14 days of vacation a year is normal, but in Portugal, the standard is 22, sometimes up to 25 days. This extra time off allows for much more time to relax, travel, and spend more time with family and friends. It's a stark contrast to the 'all work and no play' culture many Americans are used to back home, and it's a change most welcome with very open arms.
Conclusion
In conclusion, moving to Portugal from the US is a journey filled with delightful surprises and adjustments. From the genuine warmth and kindness of the Portuguese people to the late-night family gatherings, the affordable healthcare, and the casual approach to enjoying a beer or glass of wine in public, life in Portugal offers a refreshing contrast to what most Americans are accustomed to back home. The cultural differences, while initially a source of culture shock, will enrich your experience and deepen your appreciation for this beautiful country.
Got any others to add? Please do so in the comments below!
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