Many Britons dream of escaping the UK's dreary climate when they retire, but their destination must cater to many needs.
One European nation that "ticks a tonne of boxes for the perfect location to settle in" is Portugal, revered for its idyllic climate and laid-back tempo.
Portugal owes its high quality of life to several factors, including an unbeatable healthcare system and low cost of living, an expat recently claimed.
The content creator who posts under the username Expat Money on YouTube used his platform to list several reasons Portugal is a top pick for foreigners.
Portugal is perfect for those who love sun, sea and sandPA IMAGES“Healthcare in Portugal is top notch and [the country] is famous for its hospitals," the content creator told his followers.
Experts at Global Citizen Solutions confirm that the state-provided healthcare in Portugal “is accessible to all citizens and legal residents, completely free of charge".
It adds: “While most medical services are covered, there may be certain fees associated with emergency room visits, consultations with your family doctors, or when utilising ambulance services.”
It does warn that any applicants of the country’s Golden Visa scheme who travel to Portugal before obtaining their visa will need travel insurance from their country of residence.
Once the Golden Visa is received, however, “applicants [...] are eligible for the Portugal National Health Service (SNS)".
It adds: "However, they must first register with the SNS to benefit from its services. Note that dental costs are not covered.”
Additional benefits of moving to Portugal
Beyond the country's national healthcare system are several additional benefits that make life in Portugal idyllic for retirees.
Expat Money confirms this, citing the high quality of the local produce and safety as two examples.
“If Europe is where you want to live, Portugal ticks a tonne of boxes for the perfect location to settle down in. Here are just a few of the reasons why,” he said in his video.
“Portugal has amazing weather, which is probably one reason that most people move there. Arguably, Portugal has some of the best golf courses in Europe.
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Portugal is considered one of the best destinations in Europe for expats
GETTY“[The country] ranks as the 17th safest country in the world. It is an unbelievable country to retire in, with so much to offer, and has been rated in the top 20 countries for retiring to."
The content creator claims Portugal also boasts one of the lowest costs of living in Western Europe.
“There are loads of fresh veggies and fresh fish that not only taste great but are cheap and easily available,” he adds.
Additionally, it is “very easy” to open a bank account in Portugal, even for non-residents. “You just have to be in the country to do it,” says the travel enthusiast.