Hi there!
Welcome to the very first issue of the Let’s PortuGo weekly newsletter! We’re excited to help you navigate your move to Portugal with practical tips, real stories, and the latest updates every week.
About us:
It all started in 2023 when Soleil and I decided we'd had enough of the United States. Soleil had a lifelong goal/dream of moving to Europe and I was ready to move back to Europe. [Side note: I am originally from Denmark, but lived most of my life in the US]. From all of her research, she discovered that Portugal had the easiest pathway to citizenship and some of the most straight-forward visa options. Fast forward to the end of 2024, when we had made it to Europe and Soleil created her Let's Move To Lisbon Instagram account. That account now has over 100k followers and we've registered our lil' Portugal visa company, Let's PortuGo.
We want to help more people achieve their goal of living in Portugal (or anywhere in Europe, to be honest) and this newsletter is one of the ways we're doing it.
What to expect:
- Bite-sized guides on visas, paperwork, and life in Portugal
- Insider tips from our team and local partners
- Community highlights and ways to connect
- Exclusive offers and partner spotlights
This issue’s focus:
Why Portugal? Discover what makes this country so appealing for expats—from its welcoming culture and beautiful coastlines to its affordable lifestyle and vibrant communities.
Portugal draws many Americans, Brits, and Canadians with its sunny weather, budget-friendly living, top-tier safety, and friendly vibe, ranking as a prime spot for expats eyeing Europe. Compared to high-cost cities in the US, it offers European perks at a steal. Quality of life rivaling California beaches without the price tag.
Weather and Lifestyle
Portugal boasts 300+ sunny days a year along the Algarve and near Lisbon, with mild winters (rarely below 50°F) and warm summers perfect for beach days or surfing—much like Florida or SoCal but more affordable. The chill coastal culture, historic charm, and family adventures beat the grind of U.S. suburbs, with easier socializing than many other popular European cities.
Cost Savings
Expenses run far below U.S. averages: a family of five might spend $3,500/month total versus $5,000+ stateside, with Lisbon one-bedrooms at ~$950 downtown. Groceries (milk ~$1.20/gallon), dining (~$12 meals), and healthcare crush U.S. costs, freeing cash for your ventures like AI consulting or family trips.
Safety and Health
Named the globe's safest retirement haven in 2026, Portugal's low crime outshines many U.S. cities and matches Europe's best—ideal for kids. Universal public healthcare rivals Medicare but costs pennies (free for residents), with private plans under $100/month.
Visa Pathways
Options like the Golden Visa, D7 retirement income, or D8 digital nomad visas grant Schengen travel and citizenship after 5 years (currently). There are several other visa options, but these are the most popular. Be sure to download our Portugal Visa Guide for a complete rundown on them.
Expat Hubs
There are large hubs of expats from the US, UK, Canada, and many other countries in Lisbon, The Algarve, Cascais, and Porto. It’s easy to make friends both within these groups and with the friendly, open people of Portugal. Families with children are particularly welcomed and see many benefits in the community; starting at the airport when you get whisked to the front of the line!
Portugal Fun Fact:
Did you know Portugal has over 800 kilometers of coastline? (That’s almost 1,300 miles!
Ready to get started?
- Book a consultation call (click the blue button at the top of this newsletter)
- Subscribe to the newsletter (blue button at the bottom of the page)
- Join our community, The Sardine Social
Até breve (see you soon),
Rich & the Let’s PortuGo Team
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P.S. Want more tips or resources? Follow us on Instagram @letsmovetolisbon or visit letsportugo.com.
