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Sustainable Tourism: 9 Eco-friendly Hotels in Portugal

Lara Silva
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Sustainable Tourism: 9 Eco-friendly Hotels in Portugal

When you think of sustainability, traveling isn’t the first thing that comes to mind, but sustainable tourism is an up-and-coming niche in Portugal’s tourism industry. If you’re planning to fly to Portugal but would like to make sure the rest of your trip is relatively sustainable, finding the right eco hotel with sustainable practices can go a long way in reducing your carbon footprint. From the food waste produced, packaging of toiletries, energy consumption, and more, there are a lot of factors to consider when picking a sustainable and eco-friendly hotel. We have picked our 9 best eco hotels and sustainable accommodations in Portugal so you know where to go for the perfect sustainable stay. Happy green travels!

1. Monverde, Amarante

Surrounded by Quinta da Lixa’s grapes and vineyards in Amarante, Hotel Monverde is a gorgeous sustainable property that has an EU Ecolabel, saving up to 50% energy using efficient lamps and appliances, water-saving approaches, and more. One of the best eco hotels in Portugal, the guest rooms are modern with wood touches and feature private balconies. The green hotel features a spa with an indoor pool heated by solar panels, a sauna, and a Turkish bath, as well as a variety of treatments and massages. Guests can enjoy a wine tasting of the local grapes with views of the vineyard. The property’s restaurant is run by Chef Carlos Silva and serves cuisine that fits into the culture of the region, combining the fresh products of Quinta da Lixa with Portuguese flavors.

Book your Monverde eco hotel stay

2. Gavião Nature Village, Alentejo

Located near the Alamal beach in Alentejo, Gavião Nature Village seeks to provide guests with a unique experience in contact with nature, without sacrificing comfort. The eco hotel features an open camping area, 10 cork eco-friendly shelters made of local materials, and 13 Glamping tents that feel like a hotel room, but were constructed sustainably, featuring solar panels. The village also includes a spa circuit offering a jacuzzi, sauna, Turkish bath, and outdoor swimming pool overlooking the Alentejo. The accommodation’s restaurant, Cadafaz, offers a panoramic view of Belver Castle and serves regional cuisine such as meats, olive oil, and wines made of bioproducts.

Book your Gaviao Nature Village eco hotel stay

3. Cucumbi, Alentejo

Located in the Herdade da Serra dos Mendes in Alentejo, Cucumbi is a countryhouse offering suites and cottages offering views of the Alentejo landscape. Cucumbi is committed to conscious consumption and has its own organic garden selling eggs and vegetables, allowing guests to enjoy a homemade vegetarian breakfast. With a farm-to-table concept, the restaurant features a large table for all guests to enjoy meals together. The farm is set on 100 hectares between fruit trees, crops, and a greenhouse, as well as pets, dogs, cats, chickens, and sheep, perfect for a family getaway. The property also features a saltwater pool, a games room with offline entertainment, a gift shop, and a learning space offering workshops. 

Book your Cucumbi eco hotel stay

4. Pestana Troia Eco-Resort & Residences, Grandola

Located on the tropical-like Troia Peninsula around 1 hour away from Lisbon, Pestana Troia Eco-Resort features private villas surrounded by native plants and white sands to protect the environment and natural species of the region. The spaces between the villas are meant to promote an environmentally-friendly experience, inviting guests to use sustainable vehicles such as bicycles or walking. The winner of the Best Eco-Tourism Project in 2015, this resort covers an area of more than 100 hectares and has exclusive access to the beach, featuring indoor and outdoor swimming pools, sports facilities, saunas, Turkish baths, and gyms. There is also an 18-hole golf course nearby.

Book your Pestana Troia Eco-Resort stay

5. Azul Singular, Faial

Located on the island of Faial in the archipelago of the Azores, Azul Singular features a series of tents and yurts within a magical plantation of plants, making you feel like you are living in a jungle. A sustainable eco hotel with approximately 30 years of vegetation, including palm trees, wild fern, flowers, and bushes, you can enjoy the noises of blackbirds, sparrows, and even owls. Every unit comes with an equipped chicken, a dining table, and a gorgeous bathroom. You get a continental or vegetarian breakfast, brought to your unit every morning.

Book your Azul Singular eco hotel stay

6. Cerdeira – Home for Creativity, Lousã

In the heart of Serra da Lousa, lies a historic village called Cerdeira that was once abandoned, but renovated as a tourist village. Made up of ten schist houses made of local shale, guests can stay at these sustainably remodeled homes that keep both tradition and modern comfort in mind. The houses feature balconies and terraces with beautiful views of the Lousa mountains and village. Along with private shist houses, the village features a hostel with dormitory rooms for those looking for a more affordable option and to connect with fellow travelers. The project is committed to ecological sustainability and involving the local community using organic products, measuring the waste produced to reduce it yearly, favoring ecological products for cleaning, and more.

Book your Cerdeira Home for Creativity eco hotel stay

7. Impact House Belem, Lisbon

Located in the capital Lisbon, Impact House aims to be the most sustainable eco hostel in Portugal, accommodating up to 41 guests and featuring both dormitories and private rooms. The hostel has innovative projects based on the circular economy in partnership with local non-profits. The communal facilities include a spacious living area, swimming pool, and an activities room. Impact House includes a homemade food restaurant made with local and seasonal ingredients, as well as a cafe by the pool. There are many family activities such as yoga, dance meditation, as well as regular events to raise awareness of a sustainable lifestyle. The eco hostel focuses on food waste management, composting, upcycling, using ecological cleaning products, and more. They even compensate 100% of their CO2 emissions and have a plan to achieve carbon neutrality in 2030.

Book your Impact House Belem eco hotel stay

8. Eco Soul Ericeira Guesthouse, Ericeira

Eco Soul Ericeira is a beachfront eco-friendly guest house offering five stunning rooms with balconies and sea views. The property features an outdoor fireplace, outdoor showers, and a communal terrace to watch the sunset overlooking the sea. The guest house has won a Green Key every year since its opening, an international award attributed to sustainable accommodations. Along with other certifications, this place has incredible energetic efficiency, 80% of the land are green spaces, the materials of the building are natural and renewable, food waste is mitigated, and more.

Book your Eco Soul Ericeira stay

9. Vale do Rossim Eco Resort, Serra da Estrela

Located in Serra da Estrela, the highest mountain range in mainland Portugal, Vale do Rossim Eco Resort features a series of yurts, chalets, bungalows, and rooms for a luxurious glamping experience. A sustainable eco-resort, the property also features a shared stone fireplace, a bar, and a summer terrace, as well as a pond that guests can fish in. Between January and March, it tends to snow in Serra da Estrela, making it the best time to visit some ski resorts.

Book your Vale do Rossim Eco Resort stay

Portugal with highest number of new covid cases in EU

Lara Silva
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Portugal with highest number of new covid cases in EU

According to Sic Noticias, Portugal remains the country in the European Union with the highest number of new cases of covid-19 per one million population, as well as the second in the world. 

The daily cases have risen from 2.290 per one million inhabitants last week to 2.580 today, followed by Spain with 449, Greece with 351, and Germany with 3380. Taiwan has the largest daily case average currently with 3.420, followed by Portugal, and then Singapore (1.460), Australia (1.440), New Zealand (1.360), and Panama (727).

The average daily deaths per one million inhabitants also remain the highest in Porto with 3,19, followed by Finland (2,99), Spain (2,15), and Ireland (1,72).

There are around 180,000 news cases of covid-19 in Portugal every week and the R(t) is close to 1, according to DGS. Between May 17 and 23, there were 230 deaths associated with covid-19, as well as an increase in admissions to intensive care. 

The regions of Lisbon and Vale do Tejo recorded the most cases, with Madeira and the Azores recording the least cases. People between the ages of 40 and 49 years had the highest number of cases, whereas children younger than 9 years old had the least infections. 

92% of the population has been vaccinated, with 62% having had the first booster and 1% having had the second booster. The second booster has only been given to those 80 and over, with 7% of those in that age group having received it. 

The “open house” strategy for vaccination is still in place. Those over 18 without a COVID-19 booster, those over 12 without the first COVID-19 dose, and those over 50 without a booster against the flu can get vaccinated without an appointment. To get vaccinated in Portugal, head to a vaccination point or a health center. 

Entering Portugal: Covid Restrictions & Current Measures

Guide to Healthcare in Portugal: Portuguese Healthcare

Lara Silva
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Guide to Healthcare in Portugal: Portuguese Healthcare

Under the World Health Organization (WHO)’s ranking of healthcare systems, Portugal takes 12th place. Featuring both a private and public health sector, the country offers universal health coverage through the Servico Nacional de Saude (SNS). All residents in Portugal, as well as visitors with a European Health Insurance Card (for up to 90 days), can access universal healthcare. However, the public health system does occasionally charge low amounts (less than 20 euros) for particular treatments, prescriptions, and specialists. However, children under 18 and people over 65 can enjoy 100% free healthcare.

For those who cannot access the SNS such as non-residents and non-EU visitors, the private sector is easily accessible to all. Doctors at private clinics and hospitals are also more likely to be fluent in English. However, these will need to purchase private health insurance to cover any medical assistance while in Portugal.

Keep in mind that the emergency number in Portugal is 112, which connects you to an ambulance, police, and fire services. Our guide to healthcare in Portugal provides an overview of Portuguese healthcare for expats, residents, and non-residents.

Public Healthcare System in Portugal

The Servico Nacional de Saude (SNS), the national healthcare service is managed by the Ministry of Health and is free to all residents, including internationals and expats in Portugal. The SNS covers primary and secondary Portuguese healthcare services such as maternal care, community healthcare, some dental care, and more.

To access public healthcare, you must register with your local council called a junta de freguesia. You will get a proof of address which you will give to your local healthcare center for your registration, known as a centro de saude. You must also bring your residence card to register. After successfully registering with your health center, you will be given a Portuguese healthcare numero, a numero de utente. This number will be used whenever you access public healthcare services.

Can expats in Portugal access the public healthcare system?

Public healthcare is available through the Servico Nacional de Saude (SNS) for legal residents in Portugal, as well as those on short visits from the European Union, European Economic Area, and Switzerland through their European Health Insurance Card (EHIC). These can use their EHIC for free for up to 90 days. Non-residents and non-EU visitors will need to purchase private health insurance to cover any medical assistance while in Portugal.

Private Healthcare in Portugal

Portugal has a private and public healthcare sector so you can choose to access the private sector if you prefer. Many doctors work in both sectors, but the private sector is naturally an added cost, but that can be covered through medical insurance. Private healthcare is less expensive than in most countries, with an appointment costing around €40 to €50. However, certain doctors will charge higher prices at around €100, particularly specialists such as dermatologists. The waiting times are also a lot shorter for private clinics and hospitals.

Private Health Insurance for Expats in Portugal

If you have decided you will be using private health services or do not qualify for the public healthcare system, getting private health insurance will cover your medical costs. You can opt for a national or international private health insurance and the cost will depend on the amount of coverage, as well as your age. Some insurance companies in Portugal only offer health insurance to people under 55, while others make it a lot more expensive for those in retirement. Make sure to also check for any clauses that give insurance companies the right to cancel or increase the price once you reach a specific age. The average price for health insurance is around €50, but again this can increase depending on various factors.

Maternal Healthcare: Giving Birth in Portugal

If you can access the public health system, you can give birth at a public hospital for free. Births in the public healthcare system usually occur during the 40th week. In Portugal, you will be offered a “natural” birth and a cesarian will only take place if necessary, with your consent. After the birth, you will stay at the hospital under care for 38 to 72 hours.

You can also choose to give birth through the private healthcare system. Having a baby in a private hospital in Portugal can cost you between €2,900 and €6,000. If you have private insurance, it will help you cover these costs, many insurers pay for the entirety of the birth and hospital stay. However, keep in mind that if you want your birth in a private hospital to be covered by insurance, companies usually require you to purchase insurance that covers maternal care at least a year prior to the birth.

In the private sector, you are more likely to get a cesarian, as well as be able to have a home birth with a private midwife (although the latter is not covered by insurance). If an emergency occurs during delivery, you will still be covered for this through your public health cover. It’s also important to note that while private hospitals can provide you extra comfort such as your own private room, in case of emergency, it’s wise to stay close to a public hospital. Public hospitals have the qualified staff and specialized equipment necessary to tackle emergencies.

Photo by Alex Hockett (Unsplash)

Guide to Having a Baby in Portugal

Children’s Healthcare in Portugal

For an expat child to access public healthcare in Portugal, their parents must be residents paying social security. However, if your child is born in Portugal, they are automatically granted access to the public healthcare system. Pediatrics is one of the top specializations in Portugal, with doctors working in health centers, hospitals, and clinics. Children and young people can see a pediatrician up to the age of 18. However, usually, your kid will be assigned a family doctor at your health center who will take care of regular checkups. They will refer you to a pediatrician when necessary. Nevertheless, parents can still take their children to a pediatrician at a private clinic where they can choose the doctor. To do so, having private insurance is pertinent to cover the costs.

There are multiple checkups your child will undertake under the national health system. At birth, between the third and sixth day of life, your baby will take the teste do pezinho to look for phenylketonuria, a rare inherited disorder. In the first year of life, check-ups occur at one week old, one month, two months, four months, six months, and nine months. For toddlers between 1 to 3 years old, check-ups occur at 12 months, 15 months, 18 months, two years, and three years. For children between 4 to 9  years old, check-ups occur at ages 4, 5, 6, and 8 years old. For those between 10 to 18 years old, a check-up occurs at 10 years old to prepare for the state of puberty, at 12 or 13 years old, and between the ages of 15 and 18 years old.

Mental Healthcare in Portugal

While the stigma surrounding mental healthcare remains in Portugal, the public system is becoming increasingly better at dealing with such care. Since the introduction of a National Mental Health Program in Portugal, there has been a 40% decrease in the institutionalization rate of those suffering from mental illness. From psychiatric hospitals, as well as local and regional care, mental health services are available under this program. To access the service, you must go to your GP to get referred to a mental health specialist.

You can also choose to pick out your specialist by going to a private clinic and booking an appointment with a private psychologist or psychiatrist. While not all private insurance companies cover mental health costs such as psychology and psychiatric appointments, many still do cover these costs to some degree.

Photo by cferdophotography (Unsplash)

Alternative Medicine & Health Treatments in Portugal

While alternative medicine and healthcare are growing in popularity in Portugal, it is not accessible through the public healthcare system. However, the government does regulate alternative treatments and licenses practitioners in treatments such as osteopathy, naturopathy, herbal medicine, massage, and more. Since 2012, all practitioners offering alternative treatments and therapies have to have the right amount of training in their specialty. While the public system does not grant access to such treatments, certain private health insurances, depending on the coverage are now open to covering the costs of alternative therapies.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Healthcare in Portugal

Do you have to pay for healthcare in Portugal? Is healthcare in Portugal free?

If you are a legal resident in Portugal, you can access the national healthcare system, which is mostly free of charge. Portuguese healthcare is funded through general taxation and social security contributions. However, there are certain costs for specific specialists, treatments, and prescriptions, but these will usually not cost more than 20 euros. The same applies to those on short visits from the European Union, European Economic Area, and Switzerland who can access the SNS with their European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) for up to 90 days.

However, Portuguese healthcare is not free for non-residents and non-EU visitors. These will need to purchase private health insurance to cover any medical assistance while in Portugal.

Can tourists access free healthcare in Portugal?

If you are on a short visit from the European Union, European Economic Area, or Switzerland with a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC), you can access the free public healthcare system in Portugal for up to 90 days.

Does Portugal have a good healthcare system?

The World Health Organization (WHO)’s ranking of healthcare systems places Portugal at number 12. The 2019 Healthcare are Index lists Portugal’s system as 22nd best out of 89 countries. However, many argue that the service can be slow and that waiting times can be high.

Do you need health insurance in Portugal?

If you are not a resident, you need to purchase health insurance in Portugal. However, residents have access to the public healthcare system and do not need private health insurance, unless they want to access the private health system whereas this could be more affordable.

Monkeypox outbreak: Cases in Portugal rise to 74

Lara Silva
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Monkeypox outbreak: Cases in Portugal rise to 74

As of Friday, there are 74 confirmed cases of monkeypox in Portugal, a 50% increase since Tuesday, according to the Directorate-General of Health of Portugal (DGS). Since Thursday, there are 16 more confirmed cases of monkeypox, known as “variola dos macacos”. The cases remain stable and are being accompanied by health care professionals.

The DGS announced that most of the infections were found in Lisbon and Vale do Tejo, but some have also been registered in the north of Portugal and the Algarve. It is also known that “all the confirmed infections are in men between the ages of 23 and 61, with most being under 40”.

The World Health Organization (WHO) has reported nearly 200 cases of monkeypox in 20 countries that are not known to have outbreaks of the disease. The WHO has stated that this epidemic is “containable”, proposing the creation of a stockpile that allows countries to equitably share the limited vaccines and drugs worldwide.

Experts still do not know what triggered the outbreak of monkeypox outside of Africa, according to the UN health agency. However, there is no evidence that genetic changes in the virus occurred and are responsible for its spread.

A leading advisor to the WHO told the Associated Press that the main theory to explain the spread of monkeypox outside of Africa was “sexual transmission at raves held in Spain and Belgium”. Nevertheless, scientists will find it difficult to figure out whether monkeypox has spread through sex or just close contact, according to the Associated Press.

Spain now has the highest number of monkeypox cases in Europe with 98 confirmed cases, including one woman. Cases have mostly been among men who have sex with men, according to Spanish authorities. LGBTQ groups in Spain are worried the spread of monkeypox will fuel stigma and homophobia, a sentiment that has also been shared in Portugal.

Mario Blázquez, the coordinator of health programs for the LGBTQ group COGAM in Madrid, told the Associated Press on Friday that “this is a disease that any member of the population can get,” Blázquez said. “We are facing an outbreak that unfortunately once again has hit LGBTQ people and especially gay and bisexual men. What’s happening is somewhat similar to the first cases of HIV.”

The WHO has also said that “stigmatizing people because of a disease is never ok. Anyone can get or pass on monkeypox, regardless of their sexuality”. The WHO says that while “monkeypox is not limited to men who have sex with men”, it has targeted a public health advice document for gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men to “ensure that as few people as possible are affected”. The WHO has also warned that “transgender people and gender-diverse people may also be more vulnerable in the context of the current outbreak”.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Monkeypox

How did monkeypox start?

Monkeypox is a rare disease that is caused by the infection of the monkeypox virus and was first discovered in 1958 in colonies of monkeys. The first human case was recorded in 1970 in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).

How does monkeypox spread? Is monkeypox contagious?

Monkeypox spreads through close contact with someone who has symptoms. Clothing, bedding, towels, or objects that have been contaminated with monkeypox can infect others. The virus can also spread through saliva as ulcers, lesions, or sores in the mouth can be infectious. According to the WHO, this means that people who have close contact with someone infected, such as health workers, household members, and sexual partners are at greater risk.

What are the symptoms of monkeypox?

Margarida Tavares, the director of the National Program for STDs and HIV for DGS has told the public to look out for symptoms such as fever, myalgia, headaches, and skin or mucosal lesions. According to the WHO, within 1 to 3 days after the appearance of fever, infected people often begin developing a rash. Monkeypox usually lasts between 2 to 4 weeks.

Why are gay and bisexual men getting monkeypox?

Monkeypox is not limited to men who have sex with men, anyone can get monkeypox, regardless of their sexuality, according to the WHO. It is still not clear why there is a higher proportion of cases among men who have sex with men. The LGBT correspondent to the BBC, Lauren Moss says: “As monkeypox is often caught through direct contact, once it’s introduced to a community, it is more likely to spread through that community among those who are in close contact with each other – for example, within a household or among sexual partners”.

Funchal Music Scene Guide: Best Music Spots in Funchal

Lara Silva
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Funchal Music Scene Guide: Best Music Spots in Funchal

Funchal, meaning ‘the place of fennel’ in Portuguese, has a population of around 111,000, making it the sixth-largest Portuguese city and the main center of Madeira. While the conventional music scene is not as abundant as in Porto and Lisbon, Funchal still boasts a number of clubs for nights out, live music spots with both traditional and mainstream music, as well as a large music festival. If you’re a music lover visiting Madeira, head out to our favorite spots in this music scene guide to Funchal.

Guide to Funchal

Best Live Music Spots in Funchal

1. Trap Music Bar

Trap Music Bar features a large leisure area with a bar area with live music, as well as a disco playing house, and a lounge bar terrace. Every night, live musicians perform at Trap Music Bar from all music genres including Portuguese music, jazz, and pop music. For a perfect night out, head to Trap Music Bar for a live show and stay until late for a club night out with a DJ.

2. Folklore Show

Folklore music is popular throughout Madeira and this night out allows you to listen to the regional genre using musical instruments such as the cavaquinho, machete, rajao, and brinquinho. The show also features traditional dances such as the Bailinho da Madeira. Guests can enjoy the show with a nice dinner and get to try the traditional espetada, beef cooked over an open fire on a skewer.

Book ticket here

3. Qasbah Live Music & Cocktails

In the heart of the Funchal hotel area, Qasbah Live Music & Cocktails offers a stunning view overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. Featuring delicious meals and cocktails with a Mediterranean-style kitchen that is open every day until midnight, your live music night out can include a nice dinner. Qasbah hosts regular DJ nights, as well as live music performances of various musical genres, including Portuguese music, Jazz, and more on the outdoor terrace overlooking the ocean.

4. House Jazz Restaurante

Providing an elegant dining experience, House Jazz is a restaurant featuring a blend of French, Italian, Asian, and Portuguese cuisines. Every evening, live Jazz bands play classic tunes so that guests can enjoy some quality live music over some octopus, steak, and great Portuguese wine.

Best Clubs in Funchal

1. Vespas Club

Founded almost 40 years ago, Vespas Club is one of the best-known clubs in Funchal for a night out of music and dancing. Playing various music genres across three rooms called Vespas, Jam, and Marginal, as well as featuring seven bars. Romano Faria, known as OXY, is the resident DJ of the Vespas room, while DJ Ricardo Campos takes over the Jam room, a DJ with over 30 years of experience. DJ Miguel Rodrigues, also known as Migs, is the resident DJ for the room marginal, playing mostly electronic music from house to techno.

Guide to Clubs in Funchal

2. Copacabana

Welcoming guests of all ages for years, Copacabana welcomes Portuguese DJs, as well as hosts live concerts of national and internationally renowned artists. The main DJ at this club is Luis Goncalves who plays a variety of music genres, from 80s classics to tracks topping the charts as we speak. The club features 12 large video screens for an elevated experience, as well as a high-quality sound system.

Photo provided by establishment.

3. Mini Eco Bar

Mini Eco Bar is an eco-friendly bar and club that welcomes emerging artists and DJs, regularly hosting groundbreaking performances and even art shows. Portuguese DJs have played at the club, including Joao Garcia, Rodrigo Portugal, and Maria Branco. This club provides a guilt-free night out. All the waste produced is recycled, the appliances are energy-efficient, and lighting is of low consumption. All the furniture has been upcycled.

Photo provided by establishment.

Top Music Festivals in Funchal

1. NOS Madeira Summer Opening July 15 – 16 & 22 – 23 2022

Located in the Parque de Santa Catarina, NOS Madeira Summer Opening is an urban music festival that provides views of the Atlantic ocean and Funchal. The largest music festival in Madeira founded in 2012, this year’s edition will take place over 4 days, divided into two weekends. Hosting 20 concerts, this will be the largest edition of the festival. Artists such as Richie Campbell, Carlão, Valete, Rgula, Wet Bad Gang, Nenny, Plutonio, and more will be performing.

2. Atlantic Festival June 6 – 28 2022

Located on Praça do Povo on Avenida do Mar is a month-long music festival with Madeiran and Portuguese music, as well as classical music. The festival attracts regional and national artists. Each performance is 20 minutes long and combined with fireworks for a unique experience. This year, the Madeira Classical Orchestra and the Madeiran Group of Fados de Coimbra will be performing.

Guide to Festivals in Portugal

⬇️What are your favorite music spots in Funchal? Let us know in the comments below⬇️

Almost 40% of Portuguese believe Ukraine war will last over a year

Lara Silva
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Almost 40% of Portuguese believe Ukraine war will last over a year

The population of Portugal is becoming increasingly worried about the timeframe of the war in Ukraine. A study by Aximage in Portugal found that 39% of respondents believe the war in Ukraine will last over a year, according to the DN. In March, the number was just 16%. 82% of Portuguese people also feel that the war has impacted their personal life, a 23% increase since March.

The percentage of people that believe the war will last between six months to one year has doubled from 13% in March to 26% in May. Only 18% think the war will last less than six months, a percentage that was at 30% in March.

The study found that women (87%) feel the impact of the war more than men (77%), as well as people over 50 years old (by 93% for those between 50 and 64 and 76% for those over 65).

A loss of purchasing power was the main effect felt by 75% of those that feel impacted by the war in Portugal. In the study, many said they stopped buying certain products or started using public transportation, both activities that were reduced by 1% in the space of a month.

Over half of the respondents (55%) believe that the European Union’s (EU) help to the Ukrainian people is “enough”, particularly women. In March, 51% said the EU’s support was enough and 49% did not. Trust in NATO decreased by 14% to 49% between March and May.

The study also considered the sanctions against Russia to support Ukraine. Of the 45% of respondents that do not believe the EU’s support is enough, 54% support more severe sanctions against Russia. Moreover, the percentage of Portuguese that agree with the suspension of purchasing coal, oil, or gas from Russia decreased by 4% to 34%.

Most Portuguese people (62%) seem to look daily for information on the Ukraine war, particularly those over 65 years old (79%) and between the ages of 50 to 64 (69%). 93% of respondents get their news on the war through television, particularly women (94%) and those over 50 (95%). However, over half of those between the age of 18 and 34 prefer to obtain their information on social media.

The study was conducted through 805 interviews between May 19 and 24.

Proposal to end Portugal golden visa rejected

Lara Silva
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Proposal to end Portugal golden visa rejected

The Left Bloc (BE) and the Portuguese Communist Party’s (PCP) proposals to end the Portugal Golden Visa scheme were rejected on Tuesday, during the debate for the State Budget 2022. It seems the Portuguese left’s wish to end the golden visa will not come true any time soon.

The BE said on Twitter that “the golden visas only serve the oligarchs that want to launder their fortunes. They do not serve the population in any part of the country, only hurts them”. Mariana Mortagua from BE said in the debate that “We know who the golden visas serve and we know who buys them and for what: China, Angola, Russia. Autocratic regimes where parasitic elites germinate that go shopping for real estate in Europe in exchange for a residence visa and the opportunity to launder their money”.

The PCP argued that the Portugal Golden Visa has not benefited the country, reminding parliament of the current data available. Until December of 2021, 10,254 residence visas were provided, with 9,585 from property investment, 649 from a capital transfer, and only 20 for job creation. The PCP says that “there was almost no productive investment or job creation” but rather “there is a clear contribution to real estate”, making it harder for the population to afford housing.

A proposal to end the non-habitual tax residency was also presented by the PCP on Wednesday, but this was rejected. The proposal said that the regime promotes an “unacceptable situation of fiscal injustice, privileging non-habitual residents, with access to lower taxes than those applied to residents”.

Guide to NHR Tax Regime

What is the Portugal Golden Visa?

The Portugal Golden Visa was created in 2012 to boost foreign investment and many argue it is one of the most attractive golden visa programs in the world. It allows non-EU citizens to qualify for a residency permit and eventually citizenship through investment. You do not need to live in Portugal to be eligible for the visa, you just need to stay in the country for at least 7 days in the first year and 14 days in the subsequent years. With a Portugal Golden Visa, you can follow the non-habitual resident tax regime if you would like which for some allows for a 20% flat tax rate.

Guide to the Portugal Golden Visa

16 Interesting Facts About Cristiano Ronaldo

Lara Silva
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22
16 Interesting Facts About Cristiano Ronaldo

Born and bred in Madeira, Cristiano Ronaldo is the most famous person to come out of Portugal, as well as the most followed person on Instagram with 446 million followers. To many, he is the best player in the world. Get to know CR7 with these 17 interesting facts you might not know about!

1. Cristiano Ronaldo grew up working class

Cristiano Ronaldo did not come from money. He was born in the Sao Pedro parish of Funchal and is the fourth and youngest child of an impoverished Portuguese family. His mother was a cook and his dad was a gardener who struggled with alcoholism and died in 2005 from liver failure. In her book “Mother Courage”, Ronaldo’s mother Dolores Aveiro details how she considered terminating her pregnancy with Ronaldo due to poverty and her husband’s issues with alcohol.

2. You can study the sociology of Cristiano Ronaldo at the University of British Columbia Okanagan

In 2015, BC Okanagan Associate Professor Luis LM Aguiar made the media by announcing his Sociology fourth-year course about Cristiano Ronaldo. The professor believed “Ronaldo’s social and cultural appeal transcends football, making him an interesting study”. He told UBC News, “I’m interested in how Ronaldo has been used to construct several discourses about who he is, what makes him distinct as a footballer, what is his relationship to Portugal, Madeira, and his Portuguese identity”. The course addresses issues of identity, nationality, and representation, and discusses the phenomenon of Ronaldo across the Portuguese diaspora.

3. Ronaldo is a billionaire

Not only is Cristiano Ronaldo the richest soccer player in the world, but he is also the first soccer player billionaire. According to Forbes, in 2020 he actually became the first active team-sport athlete to surpass $1 billion in career earnings. He definitely does not live the impoverished life he once did. He owns at least 8 homes and is building a retirement mansion, having a property empire of over $54 million. From a limited edition $10.7 million dollar Bugatti Centodieci and a large collection of luxury cars, Ronaldo lives the life of the 1%.

4. He was named after Ronald Reagan

This one is a random one! Cristiano Ronaldo told GQ, “My parents named me after [Ronald Reagan] because they both liked this name and thought it sounded strong”. He said his “father admired him” way long before Reagan became the President of the United States as he was his favorite actor.

5. CR7’s nickname growing up was Little Bee and Cry Baby

As a kid, Ronaldo was nicknamed “cry baby” by his family and friends as he used to cry when he passed the ball and his friends wouldn’t score, according to his mom. They also called him Little Bee because of how fast he was which remains true to this day.

6. Cristiano has scored over 800 goals in his career

Cristiano Ronaldo has scored 807 career goals, making him the highest ever goalscorer in the history of men’s soccer. Lionel Messi is 48 goals away from Ronaldo, but you never know if he will catch up due to their 3-year difference. The previous record-holder was Josef Bican scoring 805 goals between 1931 and 1955.

7. He reached 32.51 km/h in a match against West Ham in 2021

In September of 2021, Ronaldo clocked 32.51 km/h to become the fastest football player to do so in any match, in a game against West Ham. He beat the likes of his Manchester United teammate Aaron Wan-Bissaka and West Ham United forward Jarrod Bowen.

8. When Ronaldo jumps, he generates 5 times the power of a cheetah

When Ronaldo jumps in a match, he generates 5 times the power of a cheetah in full flight, allowing him to reach 44 centimeters in the air from a standing start and 78 centimeters with a run-up. This is 7 centimeters more than the average NBA player!

9. He had heart surgery at the age of 15

Cristiano Ronaldo was diagnosed with Tachycardia, a term for a rapid heartbeat of over 100 times per minute. This can lead to stroke or heart failure so, at the age of 15, he underwent heart surgery. His mother told the Daily Mail in 2009 that the doctors “used a sort of laser to cauterize the source of the problem and that “he was operated on in the morning and came out at the end of the afternoon”. He was able to play soccer again within a few days after the surgery.

10. The CR7 Museum in Funchal celebrates his life

Founded in 2013, the CR7 Museum is located in his birthplace in Funchal, Madeira, and celebrates the soccer player’s career and life. At the museum, you will find photos from Cristiano’s childhood up until now, as well as the trophies and medals he won and even soccer balls from matches he played! Above the museum stands a 4-star hotel built in partnership between Ronaldo and Pestana Group called the Pestana CR7 Funchal.

Book Private Cristiano Ronaldo Tour with CR7 Museum

11. He has vowed to never get tattoos

Cristiano Ronaldo has zero tattoos, not even a tiny one! He regularly donates blood and does not want to have to wait months after a tattoo to be able to donate. He is also registered as a bone marrow donor.

12. Cristiano Ronaldo was arrested in 2005 on charges of rape

In 2005, Ronaldo was arrested over the alleged rape of two women at a London hotel. He denied the allegations and the case was dropped by Scotland Yard due to insufficient evidence. He was then accused of allegedly raping a woman in 2009 in Las Vegas, but Ronaldo claimed they had consensual sex. The story only came out in 2017, when the German newspaper Der Spiegel revealed a non-disclosure agreement dating from January 2010 was signed with a payment of $375,000 providing the alleged victim did not go public with the allegation. As no criminal case ever came to a conclusion, Ronaldo has never been found either guilty or acquitted of any rape allegations.

13. He won a libel payout against The Daily Telegraph in 2010

In 2008, the Daily Telegraph claimed that Cristiano Ronaldo put an injured ankled at risk by partying in a Hollywood nightclub. The article said he put down his crutches to dance with models, causing offense and embarrassment. In a libel court case against the paper, the Daily Telegraph said the allegations were false and offered Ronaldo a libel payout that he accepted in 2010. In 2008, he also accepted undisclosed damages from the Sun, which claimed he had been fined for breaking Manchester United’s club rules when using a phone during training. He ended up donating the damages to a charity in Madeira.

14. Cristiano Ronaldo’s legs were insured for over €100 million

In 2009, Real Madrid announced that the team had insured Cristiano Ronaldo’s legal for around €100 million. This is not the most expensive body part insurance in soccer, as Lionel Messi’s left foot is insured at €750 million.

15. He has a lifetime endorsement deal with Nike

As of 2016, Ronaldo has had a lifetime endorsement deal with Nike worth $1 billion. He is the third lifetime deal after LeBron James and Michael Jordan. This might seem expensive but Forbes reported that in 2016, Ronaldo’s social media presence generated $474 million in value for Nike via 329 posts. This was when he had 240 million followers across platforms and today, he has 395 million on Instagram alone, making him the most followed person on the platform.

16. He met his partner Georgina Rodriguez when she was working at Gucci in 2016

Cristiano met Georgina at the Gucci store in Madrid where she was working as a shop assistant. Georgina was 22 years old and Ronaldo was 31 years old. The couple has been together for 6 years and a large family with five children, Cristiano Junior, 11 years old, the twins Eva and Mateo, 4 years old, Alana Martina, 4 years old, and now a baby boy. The baby girl was a twin to a baby boy who tragically passed away at birth in April of 2022.

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PM says Portugal is one of the safest countries in the world

Lara Silva
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PM says Portugal is one of the safest countries in the world

Prime Minister Antonio Costa took to Twitter on Wednesday to say that “Portugal remains one of the safest countries in the world. This is extremely important for who lives here and who visits us, but also essential for an environment that attracts investment, promoting the growth and progress of our country”. The Prime Minister congratulated law enforcement professionals for their dedication, “24 hours of the day, every day of the year”.


His statement comes after the release of the Annual Report of Internal Security (RASI) 2021 which says that violent and serious crime is 10% lower than the average in 2016 and 2019. Violent and serious crime represents 4% of all crimes reported and investigated in 2021.

However, crime in general increased by 0.9% in 2021 to 301,934 cases. Certain crimes also increased substantially, including youth crime, group crime, and rape in comparison to 2020.

Group crime increased by 7.7% to 4,997 cases and youth crime increased by 7.3% to 1,120 cases. Group crime is a crime committed by three or more suspects, regardless of the nature o the crime. Its increase is the second largest in the last decade after it increased in 2019 by 15.9%. Youth crime refers to crimes committed by individuals between 12 to 16 years old and there is an increase in violent crimes in this age group.

Rape increased by 26% in Portugal in 2021, being one of the largest increases in violent and serious crimes. There were 315 cases of rape reported in 2020 and 397 cases in 2021. According to RASI, the defendants are mostly men between the ages of 21 and 30 and the victims are women of the same age. In 46% of the cases, the defendant and victim knew each other.

Along with a decrease in violent and serious crime, domestic violence decreased by 3.9%, as well as thefts in homes (-8.2%).

The districts with the most incidents of crime are Lisbon (72,183), Porto (47,552), Setubal (28,679), and Faro (20,788). However, Porto saw a decrease of 2.9% for the year 2021, with around 3,000 fewer cases than in 2020. Other areas with the largest decrease in crime were Portalegre (-8.5%) and Madeira (-7.9%).

11 Best Gay Bars and Clubs in Lisbon

Lara Silva
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11 Best Gay Bars and Clubs in Lisbon

Lisbon is one of the most LGBT friendliest European capitals, particularly the areas of Bairro Alto and Principe Real. The city is filled with iconic gay bars and an underground drag scene, as well as a diverse community of queer people. One of the oldest cities in Western Europe, Lisbon has always had an underground gay scene. In the 18th century, writer William Beckford escaped England after allegations that he was gay and moved to Sintra, in Greater Lisbon. Today, Lisbon is a welcoming European capital for LGBT people, hosting Gay Pride every year in June.

However, this was not always the case. During the fascist dictatorship of Salazar, homophobia was widespread, and heteronormative family values were imposed. A few years after the Carnation Revolution on the 25th of April, 1974, the once underground LGBT scene came out into the real world, with various bars popping up, particularly in Lisbon. Let’s go through our top LGBT+ bars and clubs in Lisbon, just in time for Lisbon Pride 2022.

LGBT Guide to Portugal

1. Trumps

Trumps is one of the most iconic queer clubs in all of Portugal, founded almost 80 years ago in the 80s. Located in Principe Real, the club is mostly full on Saturday nights and plays house and dance music, as well as pop. Known for its quality drag queen nights, this club is a key player in the capital’s queer scene and history. However, Trumps welcomes all and is actually quite popular with straight women. The club also hosts art exhibitions and cultural events showcasing queer art during the day. Internationally renowned artists have performed at Trumps including Fergie and Conchita Wurst, as well as queer Portuguese icons such as the one and only António Variações.

Photograph: Marta Ribeiro. Provided by establishment.
Photograph: Marta Ribeiro. Provided by establishment.

2. Finalmente

Finalmente opened its doors in 1976 and opened the doors to a rich queer nightlife, after decades of an oppressive dictatorship. Finalmente is known for having some of the highest quality drag in the country. You’ll get to watch lip-sync performances, as well as performances with up-and-coming drag talents. This place is a small venue, but don’t let that put you off, it will make you feel you are a part of the Portuguese drag community. You can catch a drag show every night at 3 am and the club is open until 6 am.

3. Posh Lisbon

Created by businessman Stefan Matarozzo who worked in the industry for over 10 years, Posh Lisbon is a queer Lisbon nightclub that is committed to creativity and professionalism. With drag nights, as well as theme nights such as stripper nights, Posh Lisbon provides a unique queer night out. From pop, Brazilian music, and more, you will find an event for you at Posh Lisbon.

Photo provided by establishment

4. Shelter Bar

Shelter Bar is a Bear Bar in Principe Real. In gay culture, a bear is a larger and hairier man who reflects an image of “masculinity”. Think of a Lumberjack with a full beard, that’s what a bear looks like. However, Shelter Bar is open to all, so no need to grow a beard. This place offers a 2 for 1 happy hour, as well as food for after those messy nights. From house to pop and 80s, you’ll find a night for every music taste at Shelter Bar.

5. Purex

Located in Bairro Alto, Purex is a gay and lesbian bar with quirky vintage decor and a vibrant environment. On the weekends, Purex bar’s dance floor is filled with visitors of all ages, as well as tables for socializing. Featuring affordable prices, make sure to visit Purex on your next night out in Bairro alto and look out for their theme nights!

6. Cru

Cru is a gay bar that features fetish parties, as well as raunchy naked and underwear nights. Entry is 5 euros including a locker for your belongings and the bar features a bar with drinks and snacks, as well as darkrooms and cabins. They also feature a sex shop selling condoms, lube, and more.

7. Side Bar

Located on a popular corner of Bairro alto, Side Bar offers a variety of cocktails in a friendly and inviting environment. This place is open in the afternoon until 2 am, featuring music at night for some dancing. Although it is quite a small space, you can take your drink outside and mingle with the rest of the queer community in Lisbon.

8. Tr3s

Serving the LGBT+ community since 2010, Tr3s was elected one of the 10 best bear bars in the world by Bear World Magazine. The perfect spot to organize a birthday party or visit on a themed party night, this place is often busy and vibrant. Located in the gay heart of the city, Principe Real, Tr3s also features an outdoor terrace to have a drink after work, which many other bars do not have.

9. Primas Bar

Primas Bar might look like a classic Portuguese tavern, but the juke-box bar is actually a lesbian bar, although it is welcoming to all. Located in Rua da Atalaia, this place serves Spanish cuisine, while later at night it becomes a place for dancing. While the bar gets quite full, you can take your drink outside as the street is often filled with queer people socializing and having beers.

10. Bar 106

Opened in 1990, Bar 106 is an iconic bar in the Lisbon queer scene, located in Principe Real. Before, you needed to ring the bell as this place always had its doors closed, allowing for an intimate environment. Now, they tend to keep their doors open but the great atmosphere is still present. The clientele at this place varies in age, and both locals and tourists frequent Bar 106. Some nights at the bar have a unique theme and 106 even hosts impromptu games to get people to mingle and get to know each other.

11. Lux Fragil

Founded in 1991 in Santa Apolonia, Lux Fragil is one of the most exclusive clubs in Lisbon and is renowned in Europe for its selection of electronic music DJs. While Lux is not officially a gay club, it is incredibly LGBT+ friendly. Major DJs from all over Europe play in Lux every week and the club mostly plays techno, especially downstairs. Lux offers views of the Tagus river from its balcony, as well as a rooftop terrace that opens in the summer. The dress code for Lux is not formal so no need to wear heels and a dress – you’ll be the only one. However, you should try to dress nice, even if you’re wearing sneakers.

⬇️Please share your favorite gay clubs and bars in Lisbon in the comments below⬇️

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