

Bruno Arcos
Portuguese citizen
Contacts
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About me
Portuguese
Speaks Portuguese, English and Spanish
Registration: 01 April 2019
Articles written or translated by Bruno Arcos

After a couple of weeks of dining on delicious Portuguese food, sipping vinho verde and snacking on pastel de nata and other sweet treats, your body may start asking for some action. From gyms to hiking, Lisbon can provide you with something that's sure to tickle your fancy, no matter your preferences.
20 September 2025
Though it is widely criticized among commuters for its noticeable inefficiency, Lisbon has a pretty reliable and diverse public transportation system, making it convenient for new arrivals to get around the city. Below is an overview of the city's transportation options, which can help expats find their way around town, plan their work commutes, and make the most of the city.
20 September 2025Enjoying a fairly recent and quite efficient metro system that reaches most of the city's outskirt districts, there are very few reasons for you to feel like you will need a car in Porto. That remark is particularly accurate if you will be living or working in the city center, where the area's steep, narrow streets and limited parking spots make it quite difficult to navigate.
20 September 2025
While walking through the streets, interacting with the people and visiting local museums, restaurants and concert halls, there are details that will forever shape your experience in Porto, as this is a city that, if you search hard enough, truly allows you to dive deep into its core. That being said, there are plenty of activities for you to choose from, depending on your mood and – of course – company.
12 September 2025
Make no mistake – food is a big part of people's identity in Northern Portugal, which means you'll necessarily spend a lot of time around the dinner table if you want to mingle with the locals! As such, and after spending some time stuffing your face with egg-custard-based sweets, pork, cod and the infamous Francesinha (not to mention all the wine), your body will surely start begging for some physical activity. Luckily, there are plenty of activities and facilities in Porto to help you get back in shape after spending a while here!
12 September 2025
A magnificent way of getting acquainted with a city's culture is to taste its food! We recommend you be open-minded about Porto's traditional dishes since some of them may sound a bit too heavy and odd at first. However, once you give them a chance, you will understand what all the fuss is about, so be prepared for a lot of fun during your culinary adventures in Porto!
12 September 2025
If you're relocating to Porto with your family and want your child to learn in their native language while following the curriculum from your home country, enrolling them in an international school could be your best bet. The city offers a wide range of options spread across several different neighborhoods.
12 September 2025
If you're moving to Portugal with your family and want to start the nerve-wrecking process of finding the most appropriate school for your kids, then we've got you covered! Luckily, Portugal has a very good education program, made up of both public and private schools. Stick around and find out how to navigate the Portuguese school system.
12 September 2025
Portugal is a fun, happening place. With plenty of cool towns and places to visit, good infrastructure, decent weather all year round, and all the conveniences one expects to find in modern, developed EU countries, finding great ways to help you pass the time is certainly not an issue when moving to Portugal!
12 September 2025
Portugal attracts thousands of foreign students every year! If you're one of the lucky students making their way to Portugal over the next school year, then here's an overview of the higher education system in the country.
12 September 2025
Moving to Portugal means adapting to a new lifestyle and a new working environment, but there are many opportunities to be found for expats in the country. Here is an overview of the country's labor market to help you build a career in Portugal.
12 September 2025
From stunning beaches on the Atlantic coast and a mild Mediterranean climate to fabulous food and rich history and culture, Portugal is a popular destination for both tourists and expats. However, the country's growing economy and the security of being an EU member state attract lots of investment from international companies, meaning Portugal is far from being all about leisure. These and other factors make it a somewhat favorable environment for new entrepreneurs and startup founders.
12 September 2025
Portugal is a popular destination for retirement for Europeans, but also for retirees from other countries. Factors such as a mild sunny climate, a lower cost of living compared to most other Western European countries, and relatively affordable real estate (though it's getting more and more expensive every year) make it a go-to location for a comfortable and relaxing retirement. With that said, before making any long-term plans, it's equally important to look into the local healthcare system.
07 September 2025
When moving to a new country, healthcare might very well be one of the most important factors to consider. This is especially true if you are relocating with your family, have small children, or are retired. So, if you are thinking about settling in Portugal, it's definitely a good idea to do some research into the country's healthcare system.
07 September 2025
Whether or not you are a tech-savvy person, this is still quite an important part of everyday life – and it is no different in Portugal! Access to high-speed internet and mobile communication is essential for expats and a great way to keep in touch with friends and family back home. Generally speaking, Wi-Fi is easily accessible throughout the country, and there are several high-speed internet providers, making it extremely easy for expats to set up local phone numbers and connect to the internet. Here's an overview of Portuguese telecommunications for expats.
07 September 2025
Portugal can be a great place to live, as the country boasts a favorable climate, a stunning coastline, a developed infrastructure and a very beneficial location. However, although the country has a relatively lower cost of living (compared to neighboring countries in Europe) and a handful of tax/visa schemes with favorable tax brackets, the government has been scrapping these policies in favor of a fairer atmosphere for locals. In this article, you will find an overview of taxation requirements in Portugal, a list of the country's basic taxes and tax rates, and your potential tax liabilities as an expat.
07 September 2025
ÍæÅ¼½ã½ãs moving to Portugal may wish to open a bank account in their new country of residence. Having a local account is very useful for making and receiving payments, as well as receiving wages from your employer, and will allow you to avoid international transaction fees from your home bank. Overall, opening a bank account in Portugal is quick and easy. Proof of employment is usually not required, so it can be helpful to open an account even if you haven't yet found employment.
07 September 2025
Many students and young professionals dream of acquiring professional experience in a foreign country. More often than not, this is highly valued by companies and recruiters, as it shows initiative and an innate ability to adapt to new circumstances. As such, taking an internship abroad can be of great benefit to your professional career. In fact, living and working overseas can broaden your horizons, improve your language skills and open new doors for your career. Portugal can be the ideal country to undertake an internship, as there are many opportunities in a wide range of fields.
07 September 2025
If you are planning to move to Portugal, it is important to get to know your transportation options throughout the country. Portugal has a modern and well-developed highway and road network and is also serviced by a decent bus network, though the rail is seriously lacking when compared to its southern European counterparts.
07 September 2025
Over the past few years, Portugal has become quite the popular destination for retirement, much due to its low tax rates, affordable cost of living and modern and attractive lifestyle, along with a mild climate. It's also an EU country, an attractive destination for other EU residents looking to relocate. If you are considering retirement in Portugal, there are a few things you should take into account.
07 September 2025
One of the most recent darlings among the digital nomad and expat community, Portugal seems to have it all! Nice weather, great food, a lot of beautiful sights, a welcoming culture and a cost of living that – although definitely on the rise – can still de deemed affordable by most Western European and North American standards. That said, if you're getting ready to make the jump and move to this wonderful country, here are 10 quick facts to help you get acquainted with the nation you're about to call home!
07 September 2025
If you are relocating to Portugal and you want to bring your pet with you, there are a few steps that must be followed. There are different steps for pets coming from inside or outside the EU, but generally, if your pet is vaccinated, including a vaccine for rabies and microchipped, then the process should be straightforward.
07 September 2025
Moving to Portugal requires appropriate planning, especially if you are moving an entire household. It is recommended to start planning as soon as possible and to allow extra time, in case of delays. Here are some guidelines to help you to prepare for your move.
07 September 2025
If you're relocating to Portugal and plan on driving, it is important to be aware of the administrative requirements for driving and obtaining a license. Portugal has invested massively in its road system over the past few decades, making the country a surprisingly good destination to drive.
07 September 2025
Portugal is a generally safe country to visit and settle in, showcasing low crime rates, a developed infrastructure and accessible healthcare. Thus, your stay in Portugal should (no matter how long) be comfortable, enjoyable and safe. With that, in the unfortunate event of running into an emergency, it's always better to be prepared. It's important to know who to call and how to deal with an emergency – and this is what we will cover below.
07 September 2025
This article offers an overview of the legal aspects of working in Portugal. Find out if you need a work visa, a work permit, how to apply for residency to work in Portugal, and more.
04 September 2025
Known for its perennial sunshine, stunning coastline and great cultural sights, Portugal welcomes over 20 million visitors every year. As such, if you are moving to Portugal (either for a short visit or a long stay), it is important to be aware of the entry requirements and visa options before planning your trip or relocation. While this article aims to provide the most up-to-date information on traveling to Portugal, it is strongly advised that you check with your local Portuguese embassy or consulate for the most recent information about entry requirements.
04 September 2025
If you are planning to visit or relocate to Portugal, it is important to be aware of the visa and entry requirements. Portugal is a member of the European Union and of the Schengen space, meaning EU passport holders and residents of certain countries who have a visa-waiver program with Portugal are able to enter the country for up to 90 days with no visa required. Non-EU passport holders may require a visa to enter Portugal.
04 September 2025
Geographically somewhat isolated from the rest of Europe, Portugal is a space of unique culture, traditions and architecture and home to some of Europe's most spectacular natural sights. Moreover, the country's illustrious history, welcoming people, and delicious food leave nobody indifferent.
04 September 2025
As you are planning your move to Portugal, one of the key things that you will need to decide is where you are going to live. You have two main options: renting or buying. In this article, we will give you a quick overview of the Portuguese real estate market so you can make an informed decision.
04 September 2025
If you've lived in Portugal for a while and plan to build a future in this country, you may want to explore options beyond rent and look into buying property. You may also be pleased to learn that buying property in Portugal can be a great investment opportunity. This article looks into the process of buying property in Portugal, real estate investment opportunities, property prices, and more.
04 September 2025
Before embarking on a journey to a new country and completely uprooting yourself towards a new life and a new geographical and cultural location, it's wise to understand the nuances behind diversity and inclusion, as well as better understand the political scene awaiting you. With that in mind, this brief guide will explore different aspects of Portugal's recent data and statistics on safety, diversity, inclusion and the current political parties and movements and their trends. Remember that diversity and inclusion are ongoing discussions, and it's essential to involve a wide range of perspectives and voices in these conversations.
04 September 2025
Moving to a new country means you will be discovering a new culture and exploring different habits, as well as a new lifestyle. You may find many familiar ways of life in Portugal, but there may also be some differences. Here's an introduction to the Portuguese way of life.
04 September 2025
If it's true that dating in general can be tricky and present its challenges, even more so when we talk about dating in a foreign country! In addition to the language barrier, you will be dealing with cultural differences, a new, unfamiliar environment, and different habits. With that said, when it comes to dating in Portugal, you shouldn't be afraid of putting yourself out there for fear of making a faux pas.
04 September 2025
Lisbon attracts hundreds of expats every year, be it for studying or working in one of the sunniest capitals in Europe. As a solo expat, it might be challenging to start mingling with other professionals — especially for those digital nomads and freelance expats out there. But worry not: we have a couple of tips for you.
12 November 2023
While walking through the streets, interacting with the people, and visiting local museums, restaurants and concert halls, there are details that will forever shape your experience in Porto, as this is a city that, if you search hard enough, truly allows you to dive deep into its core. That being said, there are plenty of activities for you to choose from, depending on your mood and – of course – company.
12 November 2023
Cultural, religious and political differences can be felt while traveling within most countries, which is even more relevant if you are a foreigner coming to a city or country for the first time! To avoid potentially awkward situations when networking and trying to conduct business, it is better to get a heads-up on the do's and don'ts in Porto. Â
12 November 2023
Like in many other places, you will need to take part in Porto's events and interact with those around you in your daily routines in order to meet new people and make some friends. However, the locals here are generally very laid-back and easy-going – friendly by nature – which is why building your social circle should not be as daunting of a task as it sounds!
12 November 2023
If you want to truly embrace Porto's culture, then getting acquainted with the locals is a must! Once you're up for it, making new friends will be rather easy, as people in the northern districts (such as Porto) are famous for being the nicest, most welcoming, and most genuine in the country. Don't be shy; put yourself out there, and people will give you a proper welcome!
12 November 2023
Most people visiting Porto for the first time spend most of their time exploring the downtown, and the same thing goes for expats looking for a home here. This means most of the remaining areas in the city are still quite under the radar. Fear not, since this article will clue you in. Take a special look at Baixa, Foz do Douro, Matosinhos, Vila Nova de Gaia and Boavista when looking for the perfect place for you to live.
12 November 2023
As a relatively big and well-developed city, you will find all kinds of companies when looking for a job in Porto. Depending on whether you are part of a very small, family-owned business or integrated into a multinational company based in Porto, the best way to properly fit in your new company is to be very upfront and verbal about what you expect from your job and how far you are willing to go to contribute to the company's growth. As long as you keep things out in the open, everything should work out just fine.
12 November 2023
In the past few years, the labor market in Porto has suffered a considerable boom. There are far more opportunities now that the 2011-2015 crisis is apparently water under the bridge, with new businesses and new companies growing as days go by. Be that as it may, you should definitely do some research about the specific area of work you are looking for, as the Portuguese economy is famous for running on low wages, making it increasingly difficult for the average Portuguese worker to afford to live in the big cities.
12 November 2023
Over the past few years, rent prices in Porto have been soaring. As the city's popularity grows among tourists and more and more digital nomads escape Lisbon's cost of living crisis, finding a decent, affordable place to rent in Porto is getting increasingly difficult.
12 November 2023
First of all, you should know that it was actually the local university (Universidade do Porto) that inspired J. K. Rowling's worldwide success — Harry Potter! In fact, the famous Hogwarts garments are based on the real-life Traje Académico (Academic Attire), the black-caped clothes which are worn by Porto students to this day! Still curious about Porto's academic traditions? We are here to clue you in!
12 November 2023
So, you are finally in Lisbon! You have a flat, a job, and your life is moving forward quickly. Well done! Here are a few tips to help you adjust to the Portuguese lifestyle, and avoid any predictable faux pas. You're welcome!
05 November 2023
Congratulations - you've made it to Lisbon, the city you will now call home! If you've managed to land your first job in the Portuguese capital, here are a few extra tips for you to know how to deal with the cultural differences you may come across when it comes to business and networking.
05 November 2023
A thriving destination for tourists and expats alike, Lisbon's labor market is the best it has been in years, with a low unemployment percentage and plenty of offers in key areas. However, while the relatively tame cost of living and great quality of life attract more and more expats looking for sunshine and great food, the Portuguese economy is famous for running on low wages, making it increasingly difficult for the average Portuguese worker to afford to live in the capital.
05 November 2023
Congratulations! You moved to Lisbon, and you've also landed your first job in the Portuguese capital. Whether you're taking your first steps as a digital nomad, a TEFL teacher, or an office worker, your first day might bring some excitement and anxiety… There's no need to be nervous, though! We are here to guide you through the Portuguese working environment.
05 November 2023
Lisbon is a vibrant city where you are not likely to get bored. Leisure activities are plenty, and there's something for all ages and tastes. That being said, here's a non-exhaustive list of things to do so that you can make your stay a memorable one.
05 November 2023
So, you have found the perfect university in Lisbon and got accepted. Congratulations! It's time to start packing, budgeting and preparing for what will undoubtedly turn out to be the best time of your life. That's what universities are for, right? Well, that and studying and getting a degree as well, of course.
05 November 2023