Where to live?

Hi @Kevih, Welcome.

There are small communities of English-speaking expats all over Portugal, not just in the Algarve, but also in the centre and north.

Make a trip, but don't just stay in the Algarve. I suggest you visit the Silver Coast, for example.

https://costadeprata.info/en/

Best Regards

Algarve is the best!! Has all that you mentioned! but be forewarned.

*cant find a rental for the required 12 months!

And Its freezing in the winter!! homes are not properly insulated nor offer any good heating options! some days its colder indoors than outside!!

Thanks JohnnyPT

We'll probably end up checking that out too. Winter weather is an important element which is why we are starting the search in the algarve.

@stephinnc

Thanks Stephinnc

That's actually very interesting and something we hadn't considered.

It is a good idea of basic research/reading on what others have done and encountered on similar quests - it is a very common subject on expat forums -  then you may not waste your time by repeat the same and instead seek alternatives.

https://www.expat.com/forum/viewtopic.php?id=464402

https://www.expat.com/forum/viewtopic.php?id=1020503

https://www.expat.com/forum/viewtopic.php?id=636112

@Kevih,

Please note that most rentals in the Algarve are seasonal, i.e. the months from June to September are rented separately.

On the other hand, as an EU citizen, you don't have the problem reported by @stephinnc, since renting for 12 months is a requirement for obtaining a visa for non EU citizens.

Outside of Lisbon, Cascais/Estoril has the most active expat community and the area also has a good micro-climate. Plus it is easy to get to Lisbon when there is a need to do so. If you can afford it, it is definitely a good place to live.

The Silver Coast doesn't have such a sunny climate and is often very foggy. I assume (!) that is the reason for the name. Maybe make a table of your requirements and locations and fill in how each region meets the requirements.