We live in Sintra. We are five minutes from the major palaces, a castle, and Madonna.
We are eight minutes from the beach. If we were closer to the coast (around Cascais) my house would easily be twice as expensive. Cascais probably has the most expensive real estate in Portugal.
We took some classes in Portuguese but it is a difficult language to learn. Most people where I live speak some English so I can easily get along.
The people are great. They are very friendly, laid back, and helpful.
The weather and food are amazing, especially the seafood.
The ocean is cold but I have a swim spa.
Some things (like food at the market) are very reasonable, but there is a VAT tax that makes autos and other purchases very expensive. Restaurants and real estate are more expensive where I live than the rest of Portugal.
Overall, my cost of living is considerably lower and my quality of life is better in every respect.
I haven’t spotted Madonna yet.
