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Cost of Living in the Azores: Sao Miguel Monthly Budget

Lara Silva
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Cost of Living in the Azores: Sao Miguel Monthly Budget

The largest and most populated island in the Azores, São Miguel is known as the Green Island due to its beautiful forested terrain and large lakes. Many visit the island and fall in love with it, leading them to seek to move here short-term or more permanently.

The island has around 140,000 inhabitants, with 45,000 people residing in Ponta Delgada, the island’s largest city.

Is it expensive to live in the Azores? What is the cost of living like in the Azores? Every island in the archipelago is different, but generally, it is more affordable than living in most places in mainland Portugal, especially Lisbon and Porto.

Consumer prices, including rent, are around 17% lower in Ponta Delgada, the capital of Sao Miguel, than in Lisbon. Restaurant prices are around 6% lower, and grocery prices are almost 4% lower. 

If you’re considering Sao Miguel as a permanent or temporary home, let’s take a look at the average monthly budget for expats without children, families, and digital nomads in the capital of Ponta Delgada.

Guide to Sao Miguel

Cost of Living in Ponta Delgada, Sao Miguel for an Expat

The monthly budget for an expat in Ponta Delgada, Sao Miguel is less than €1000.

A one-bedroom apartment costs around €600. If you are looking for a larger apartment, this could cost around €900. 

A monthly transportation pass is around €40 or less for buses. Utilities cost around €100, including phone data and cable TV which is a lot cheaper than in mainland Portugal. 

For exploring the island and eating out at your favorite restaurants, budget around €150 a month. You can easily spend less or more, depending on your lifestyle. 

Groceries for a single person average out at around €40 a week.

Health care could add to your monthly budget in Sao Miguel. EU citizens with a valid European Health Insurance Card can use the National Health Service (SNS) for free for up to 90 days in Portugal. This allows them time to get registered as legal residents to continue using the public health system.

However, non-EU citizens are only entitled to use the public health system if they are employed and pay social security in Portugal, having to be registered as legal residents as well.

Even if this is the case, they must purchase private health insurance to cover medical care before arriving in Portugal and becoming a legal resident.

 

Cost of Living in Ponta Delgada, Sao Miguel for a Digital Nomad

The cost of living in Faro for a digital nomad is at least €950 a month. This is the case if you sleep in a hostel’s dorm and cook most of your meals. If not, expect to need at least €2,200 a month in Ponta Delgada. 

How did we get from 950 to over 2000? Well, if you opt for the budget option of a shared dorm in a hostel, expect to only need to pay €15 a night, so around €450 a month. However, a private Airbnb would cost you at least €1200.

Renting a desk at a co-working place in Ponta Delgada costs around €100. Transportation costs around €40. 

Budget at least €200 for leisure such as eating out, bars, and tourists to discover the island.

Food can easily max out your monthly budget. If you want to save and have a kitchen at your disposal, a weekly shop shouldn’t cost more than €40.

However, if you plan to eat out, an affordable meal is around €8. This would set you back around €700 in a month.

Cost of Living in Ponta Delgada, Sao Miguel for a Family of Four

This last Azores monthly budget for Sao Miguel is the most expensive because let’s be honest, so are kids. Expect to spend at least €2000 a month for a family of four in Ponta Delgada.

However, if you need health insurance for the entire family and your two kids will attend private school, you will spend over €3000.

A three-bedroom apartment in Ponta Delgada will set you back around €900. However, prices can go up to €1200, depending on the apartment type and amenities. 

Budget around €160 a month for monthly transport passes. However, it is more convenient for a family of four to own a car and drive around the island. Fuel will cost you anywhere between €150 and €250 a month. 

Utilities cost around €120 and include electricity, heating, water, etc. However, this can be much higher in the winter or depending on your family’s consumption.

Groceries for a family of four in Ponta Delgada should cost around €100 a week, so budget at least €400 a month.

If you need to purchase health insurance for the whole family, this will cost you at least €200 a month.

However, you might be eligible to use access to healthcare for free, even if you are not an EU resident. Non-EU citizens are only entitled to use the public health system if they are employed and pay social security in Portugal, having to be registered as legal residents as well.

While public schools are free, private schools can cost anywhere between €300 and €500 depending on the establishment and age of your child. You could pay around €1000 a month for two kids just for education. 

Guide to the Azores

10 Best Paid Jobs in Portugal

Lara Silva
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10 Best Paid Jobs in Portugal

Despite the delicious food and sunny weather, Portugal is not all rainbows and butterflies. A downside to living in Portugal is the low salaries. The average gross monthly salary in 2020 in Portugal was around €1,300 a month.

However, a few in Portugal make good money, with some top roles making over six figures a year. The best paid job in Portugal right now is a general director in the private health sector. 

Let’s take a look at the 10 best paid jobs in Portugal.

Keep in mind that these yearly salaries amount to 14 months. In Portugal, the 13th and 14th salaries are mandatory, representing extra summer and Christmas pays.

Therefore, a €120,000 yearly salary does not amount to €10,000 a month, but instead, around €8,500 a month. 

Expat Guide to Working in Portugal  

10 Best Paid Jobs in Portugal

1. General Director in the Private Health Sector

€120,000 – €150,000 per year

A general director in the private health sector is the best paid job in Portugal. A general director of a hospital oversees the general administration of a private hospital with the health of patients in mind. 

These professionals make anywhere between €120,000 and €150,000 per year before tax. This is around €8,500 to €10,500 a month. 

2. Chief Information Officer (CIO)

€110,000 – €140,000 per year

A Chief Information Officer supervises a company’s IT organization, managing and implementing computer technologies. 

These professionals make anywhere between €110,000 and €140,000 per year before tax. This is around €7,800 to €10,000 a month. 

3. Commercial Director

€100,000 – €150,000 per year

Commercial directors are well paid in Portugal. These professionals are responsible for planning, developing, and implementing commercial strategies to generate revenue for a company.

These professionals make anywhere between €100,000 and €150,000 per year before tax. This is around €7,100 to €10,700 a month. 

4. Shared Service Center Director

€95,000 – €120,000 per year

A shared service center director is primarily responsible for planning and controlling the functions within a shared service center and organizing the performance of the available services.

These professionals make anywhere between €95,000 and €120,000 per year before tax. This is around €6,700 to €8,500 a month. 

5. E-Commerce Manager

€50,000 – €75,000 per year

An e-commerce manager grows an e-commerce business. They are responsible for managing orders, improving the customer experience, and evaluating the needs of customers. 

These professionals make anywhere between €50,000 and €75,000 per year before tax. This is around €3,500 to €5,300 a month. 

6. Software Engineer

€45,000+ per year

A software engineer designs, creates, and maintains computer systems and applications. Sometimes addressed as software developers, the salaries in Portugal vary.

However, the salary of a software engineer tends to start at €45,000 per year before tax, so around €3,200 a month. Nevertheless, it can reach six figures, depending on various factors such as experience, the company they work for, whether they are freelancing, etc. 

7. Cybersecurity Specialist

€45,000 – €60,000 per year

A cybersecurity specialist monitors, detects, and responds to cybersecurity risks and threats. They look for any potential attacks and solve these, keeping systems safe. 

These professionals make anywhere between €45,000 and €60,000 per year before tax. This is around €3,200 to €4,200 a month. 

8. Machine Learning Specialist

€40,000+ per year

A machine learning specialist is specialized in developing machine learning, a niche in computer science that focuses on developing algorithms that “learn” from data to make predictions. 

Similarly to a software engineer, salaries tend to start at €40,000 a year but can go higher. This is around €2,800 a month before tax.

9. Big Data Specialist

€35,000 – €50,000 per year

A big data specialist reviews, analyzes, and reports on big data stored and maintained by an organization. 

These professionals make anywhere between €35,000 and €50,000 per year before tax. This is around €2,500 to €3,500 a month. 

10. Digital Marketer

€35,000 – €45,000 per year

A digital marketer uses digital channels such as company websites and social networks to generate leads and build brand awareness. 

A digital marketer in Portugal makes between €35,000 and €45,000 a year. This is around €2,500 to €3,200 a month before tax.

125 euro support to be paid to families in Portugal

Lara Silva
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125 euro support to be paid to families in Portugal

The Portuguese government announced on September 5 a financial measure to help mitigate the impact of raising prices. A 50 and 125 euro one-time support will be paid to eligible families starting October 20 via bank transfer.

125 euros will be provided to the main adult, and 50 euros will be sent for each dependent up to 24 years of age. In the case of incapable dependents, there is no age limit.

Citizens do not need to apply for this measure as this will be sent automatically, according to the Ministry of Finance.

Residents with a gross income up to 2,700 euros per month are automatically eligible. However, they must have had a maximum of 37,800 euros (gross) declared in income tax in 2021.

This does not apply to those who were unemployed in a portion of 2021. These are still eligible for 125 euro support if they started working at some point that year. 

This yearly maximum amounts to a 14-month salary in Portugal, which includes a summer and Christmas salary. 

If the payment is not possible on October 20 “due to a lack of information or an invalid IBAN, the financial authorities will repeat the transfers monthly for half a year,” says Fernando Medina’s office. 

However, to ensure the payment runs smoothly, people can update their “IBAN in the Finances Portal. 

This 50 euro measure will support 2.2 million children and young people until the age of 24, costing 110 million euros. Both supports will include 8 million people with a total budget of 840 million euros. 

Buying a Car in Portugal

Lara Silva
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Buying a Car in Portugal

Making such a large purchase in a new country comes with its challenges. If you are planning on buying a car in Portugal, it’s essential to make sure how to get a fair deal and follow the legal requirements. 

There are plenty of questions to consider. Are you planning on purchasing a new or used car? What’s a good place to purchase a car in Portugal? Let’s take a look at everything you need to know about buying a car in Portugal.

Guide to Driving in Portugal

Who can buy a car in Portugal?

If you are looking to buy a car in Portugal, you must first figure out if you’re eligible to do so. There are quite a few restrictions to purchasing a car in Portugal. You will need the following:

  • Proof of residence in Portugal 
  • Identification document
  • Portuguese tax identification number (NIF)

Where to buy a car in Portugal

Before you choose where to buy your car in Portugal, consider whether a new one is right for you. Buying a used car will save you money! Luckily, in Portugal, you can buy both new and used cars online and in car dealerships. 

Online

In the last few years, buying a car in Portugal online has been growing in popularity. However, there is a larger risk involved in doing so. Still, there are plenty of great sellers out there, and you can usually negotiate the price. 

You just need to make sure you are taking the right steps to ensure a fair purchase. Before even seeing the car, ask the seller about the maintenance history and the number of kilometers on the car.

Car Dealership

The old-fashioned way is sometimes best! You will find car dealerships that sell new and used cars all over the country. You will get to test-drive the vehicle, which is not usually allowed when you buy a car online. 

The good thing about buying a car from a dealership is that you are usually offered more after-sales support, including maintenance. If you buy a second-hand car at a dealership, you will have a minimum 12-month guarantee. 

Major car companies have dealerships in Portugal, such as BMW, Toyota, Renault, and more. 

Car Prices in Portugal

While Portugal is known for its relatively low cost of living, car prices are quite high. The average price for a car in Portugal in 2020 was €32,444, up almost €5,000 in 5 years.

While buying a used car is more affordable than a new one, they are still expensive compared to other European countries. On the 2017 Global Used Car Index, Portugal ranked as the 9th most expensive country as cars depreciate more slowly in Portugal. 

Despite high averages, there are still affordable second-hand cars out there, many under €5,000. 

Porto. Photo by Vita Marija Murenaite (Unsplash)

Documents After Car Purchase

When you sell your car in Portugal, you need to make the official change of ownership within 60 days. This is done by completing the Transferencia de Propriedade or the verbal contract of purchase and sale. This document will include information about the vehicle and the new owner. 

Both the seller and buyer will also have to go through the declaration of sale and purchase of the car. This form indicates the individuals involved in the registration process of the vehicle.

Registering the car with IMT is very important and mandatory for all vehicles in Portugal. You can register the car with the Institute of Registries and Notaries (IRN), either online or at a citizen’s shop. 

You will then receive your registration certificate, known as the Documento Unico Automovel, which needs to be in your car at all times. 

Driving in Portugal

To drive a car in Portugal, you must be over the age of 18. However, to rent a car, you must be over the age of 21. You can drive in Portugal with your driving license if you are an EU or American national.

An International Driving License is required if you stay longer than six months. If you do not have an EU or American license, you should obtain an International Driving Permit (IDP) before you arrive.

If you’re not quite ready to purchase a car in Portugal, consider renting a car to explore the country. Prices will vary on time of year and type of car. If you do not drive stick, beware that automatic car rentals are more expensive. 

Madeira. Photo by Danilo Santos (Unsplash)

Azorean-Americans: The Azorean Refugee Act

Lara Silva
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1
Azorean-Americans: The Azorean Refugee Act

The first wave of Azorean immigration to the United States happened as early as 1870. Most of the Portuguese immigrants were men from the Azores who were recruited to work on American whaling ships.

Later on, after World War II, many Portuguese fled the right-wing dictatorship of Antonio Salazar, settling in mainly New Jersey, New York, Connecticut, Rhode Island, Massachusetts, and Maryland.

However, what was considered a second large wave of Portuguese immigration occurred in the late 50s from the Azores archipelago. It all began in 1957 with a series of volcanic eruptions in the Azores, leading to the large population of Azorean-Americans in the US today.

Capelinhos Volcanic Eruption – Azoreans flee

Azoreans sought refuge in the US in the aftermath of the Capelinhos volcanic eruption on the island of Faial, which occurred on September 27, 1957.

While no one was killed, the eruption that lasted for 13 months caused massive destruction on the island. This period spawned 300 seismic events, destroying 300 houses. Over 2,000 people were evacuated to the US and Canada.

This was the most recent volcanic eruption in all of the Azores. Today, you can visit the Capelinhos lighthouse and Visitors Center at the volcanic site in Faial. 

Capelinhos Volcano site. Photo by Photo by Rui Amaro (Unsplash)

What was the Azorean Refugee Act of 1958?

The Azorean Refugee Act of 1958 was created in direct response to the Capelinhos eruption in Faial. Senators John F. Kennedy and John Pastore co-sponsored the act, which was then signed by President Dwight Eisenhower. 

The Azorean Refugee Act made 1,500 visas available to the Azorean victims of the volcano eruption in 1958. Four years later, in 1962, an extension was granted, allowing even more Azoreans to immigrate to the United States.

Azorean-Americans: 1965 Immigration and Nationality Act

The 1965 Immigration Act further increased Portuguese immigration to the United States, particularly in the 1970s and 1980s. This law stated that those with legal or American relatives in the United States could become a legal resident with their sponsorship.

Prior to that, the National Origins Formula was in place. These were a series of immigration quotas used from 1921 to 1965 that restricted immigration from the Eastern Hemisphere on the basis of national origin.

This was in place to preserve American homogeneity and proved racially discriminative, only allowing immigration from Western and Northern Europe.

While the 1965 Immigration Act still had per-country and total immigration limits, relatives of US citizens were exempted from these restrictions.

Therefore, it is no surprise that in the 70s and 80s, many Azoreans were able to move to the United States through relative sponsorships who had been there from the late 50s – early 60s.

Photo by Fabian Fauth (Unsplash).

Portuguese-Americans in the United States

According to the United States Census from 2000, there were 1,176,615 Portuguese-Americans, the majority being of Azorean descent. In 2019, 1,371,153 people in the United States reported Portuguese ancestry. 

As of 2020 figures, most Portuguese-Americans live in the states of California, Massachusetts, Florida, Rhode Island, New Jersey, and New York, in that order. 

Portuguese-Americans are the fifth largest ethnic group in Rhode Island and the eighth largest group in Massachusetts. 

Portuguese-Americans are also the fourth largest ethnic group in the State of Hawaii. Portuguese immigration to Hawaii happened in the late 19th century. Labor contracts paid for the migration of entire Portuguese families. However, the conditions were not favorable. 

Portuguese Embassies and Consulates in the USA, UK, and Canada  

Is the Azores in Portugal?

The Azores are an autonomous region of Portugal, located between Lisbon and New York. An archipelago of nine volcanic islands in the Atlantic Ocean, the Azores are around 850 miles west of mainland Portugal. The archipelago is located 1,200 miles southeast of Newfoundland, Canada, and 930 miles northwest of Morocco. 

There are nine islands of the Azores and three main groups in an islet cluster. These are Flores and Corvo to the west, Graciosa, Terceira, Sao Jorge, Pico, and Faial in the center, and Sao Miguel and Santa Maria to the east. 

The islands cover more than 600 kilometers, and all have volcanic origins. However, some islands have never recorded volcanic activity since they were settled centuries ago. 

The Azores. Photo by Martin Munk (Unsplash)

Travel Guide to the Azores  

Lisbon on the list of worst delayed airports in the world

Lara Silva
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Lisbon on the list of worst delayed airports in the world

Humberto Delgado Airport in Lisbon is one of the worst delayed airports in the world, taking 4th place in a CNN Travel ranking. 43% of flights at Humberto Delgado Lisbon Airport were delayed during the summer. 

CNN based its rankings on data by FlightAware between May 27 and September 5, “the largest data platform on flights worldwide.”

Here are the airports with the most delays in this time frame in the world:

1. Toronto Pearson International Airport: 51.9%
2. Montreal-Trudeau International Airport: 47.8%
3. Frankfurt International Airport: 44.5%
4. Humberto Delgado Airport (Lisbon): 43%
5. London Gatwick Airport: 42%
6. Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport: 41.6%
7. Munich International Airport: 40.1%
8. Manchester Airport: 39%
9. Athens International Airport: 38.5%
10. Vancouver International Airport: 37.8%

However, Portugal did not make the list for having an airport with the most canceled flights in the world. The following airports made the list:

1. Shanghai Pudong International Airport (China): 29.8%
2. Xi’an Xianyang International Airport (China): 15.6%
3. Beijing Capital International Airport (China): 14.7%
4. Nanjing Lukou International Airport (China): 14.4%
5. Chengdu Tianfu International Airport (China): 9.5%
6. Shenzhen Bao’an International Airport (China): 9.1%
7. Soekarno-Hatta International Airport (Indonesia): 8.3%
8. Wuhan Tianhe International Airport (China): 8.2%
9. Newark Liberty International Airport (US): 6.7%
10. LaGuardia Airport (US): 6.7%

Santana, Madeira Travel Guide

Lara Silva
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Santana, Madeira Travel Guide

Located along the northern coast of Madeira island lies the municipality of Santana, named after Saint Anne, the mother of the Virgin Mary. Santana is inhabited by less than 9,000 people and covers an area of 96.2 km2.

In 2011, Santana became a Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO due to its diverse ecosystem. Santana features rich landscapes with unique cultural and environmental value, including a mountainous environment that occupies river valleys. There are 120 kilometers of biosphere walking routes to discover. 

Santana features a unique architectural style known mainly for the traditional Santana houses in red, white, and blue, with thatched roofs. Its unique style comes from its isolation. Santana was not accessible by sea and land, so the locals preserved its characteristics without outside influences.

This Santana Madeira Travel Guide has everything you need to know about visiting Santana, from the six parishes to the best things to do. 

Guide to Madeira

The 6 Parishes in Santana, Madeira

Santana is a municipality with six parishes: Santana, Faial, Sao Jorge, Sao Roque do Faial, Arco de Sao Jorge, and Ilha. 

1. Santana

Santana town has the highest points on the island with some of the best views. It is perhaps the most popular among tourists due to its traditional Santana homes. These houses have thatched roofs, small windows, and multi-colored exteriors. Santana also features a church in honor of Saint Anne. 

Santana traditional houses. Photo by Florian Meißner (Flickr)

2. Faial

Faial parish was created in 1550. Faial was one of the first to be populated on the north coast along with Sao Jorge and features a tree native to the Macaronesian forest. Faial is known for the beach of Foz da Ribeira do Faial. 

Fortress of Faial, Santana. Photo by Nikola Majksner (Unsplash)

3. Sao Jorge 

Sao Jorge has less than 1,500 inhabitants and was first developed from the Calhau de Sao Jorge area in the 16th century. This parish features the Levade Rei trails through forests and farmland, as well as the Cabanas de Belvedere, a viewpoint with beautiful views of the island. 

4. Sao Roque do Faial

Founded in 1848, Sao Roque do Faial is a small area with around 700 locals. It is named after a patron of a chapel, leading to the creation of a church in the 16th century that was centuries later destroyed by the sea. Sao Roque do Faial features a trout farm, a forest park, and unique trails. 

Sao Roque do Faial. Photo by Vitor Oliveira (Flickr)

5. Arco de Sao Jorge

Named after the arched-shaped mountains that surround it, Arco de Sao Jorge is the smallest parish in Santana, with only 3.5 km2. Arco de Sao Jorge features the Rose Garden of Quinta do Arco, a garden with the largest collection of roses in Portugal. It is also home to the Museum of Vine and Wine, an interactive museum about wine culture. 

Arco de Sao Jorge, Santana. Photo by vincent gressard (Flickr)

6. Ilha

Ilha is the most recent parish, only founded in 1989. It’s called island in Portuguese as it is surrounded by water on all sides. Only about 250 people live here in an area of 15.4 km2. The area is known for the natural reserves of Alchado do Marques ao Caldeirao Verde and the waterfalls. 

4 Best Things to do in Santana, Madeira

1. Discover the traditional Santana houses

The traditional Santana Houses are an iconic staple of the town which you can see in the Center for Traditional houses. The houses were built by locals from straw produced on the local plantation. The houses are triangle shaped, with red, blue, and white accents. 

Locals no longer live in these houses, but they are open to visitors. You will be able to see inside, including the quaint kitchens and where the locals kept their products. Many of the houses have been restored into shops for you to buy souvenirs. 

Photo by Daniela Turcanu (Unsplash)

2. Visit the largest rose garden in Portugal

Quinta do Arco is located in Arco de Sao Jorge. A tourism project, this farm features a hostel surrounded by a natural green environment. However, it is mostly known for its extensive rose garden.

This rose garden is the largest rose collection in all of Portugal. There are over 1,000 species of roses of distinct colors. This sea of flowers makes for unique photographs from ancient to contemporary roses.

Keep in mind that the rose garden is closed between January and March. 

Quinta do Arco. Photo by Toprural (Flickr)

3. Enjoy the Madeira Theme Park

The Madeira Theme Park, known as the Parque Temático da Madeira in Portuguese, is one of Madeira’s most famous tourist attractions. Founded in 2004, the theme park covers over 7 hectares and introduces visitors to Madeira.

From the island’s history to the science behind the area, the theme park spans every topic you can think of. Various attractions are geared toward young people and the elderly, including multimedia pavilions, Santana houses, a labyrinth, a lake, and more. You will also find a restaurant, bar, and souvenir shop on site. 

4. Explore the UNESCO Laurissilva Forest 

Queimadas Forest Park is a Laurissilva forest that has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This area has a rich biodiversity and a large variety of trees, many of which are indigenous to the area such as the Fringila coelebs madeirensis and the Fringila coelebs madeirensis.

There are also popular hiking trails at Queimadas Forest Park, leading to different parts of the island and passing through beautiful streams. One of the most popular hikes is the Caldeirao Verde Levada trail (PR9). You will also find the Casa de Abrigo das Queimadas, a gorgeous cottage-like home that is open for visitors. 

Casa de Abrigo das Queimadas. Photo by Julia Solonina (Unsplash)

Book Santana Tours

Transportation in Santana: How to get around Santana

You can get to Santana from Funchal by public transport with a 1-hour bus that costs less than 5 euros. If you choose to drive, it’s only a 40-minute ride.

In Santana, there is a limited bus service. You will find buses riding between Santana, Sao Jorge, and Arco de Sao Jorge. There are around five services a day for each route. 

There is also a bus running from Galego and Porta da Cruz to Santana. However, these last two routes only have one to three daily services. 

Therefore, relying completely on buses in Santana is not the best option. We recommend renting a car as, without one, you won’t be able to travel to most places freely. 

Book Car Rental in Portugal

Top Picks in Santana, Madeira

Santana Restaurants

  • Sabores da Ritinha
  • Cantinho da Serra
  • Bragados Santana
  • Serra e Mar
  • Marcel’s Bistro

Santana Hotels

Santana Valley Tours

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European Court of Human Rights clears Portuguese justice in Maddie McCann case

Lara Silva
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1
European Court of Human Rights clears Portuguese justice in Maddie McCann case

The European Court of Human Rights (ECHR) has cleared the Portuguese justice of a complaint made by the parents of Madeleine McCann on Tuesday. The court found that Portugal had given the parents of the missing toddler a fair hearing in their libel battle against Goncalo Amaral, a former policeman.

Goncalo Amaral suggested in his book “Truth of the Lie” that the parents were involved in the disappearance of Madeleine McCann in 2007 after working on the investigation. 

Kate and Gerry McCann sued Goncalo Amaral for libel which they initially won in 2015. Amaral was ordered to pay damages, but two years later, the ruling was reversed by Portugal’s highest court.

The McCanns then appealed to the ECHR, arguing that many of their rights had not been respected in Portugal, including their right to a fair trial, right to private family life, and right to freedom of expression. 

Concerning their right to private family life, the court said that “by using social communication mediums, the applicants wanted to use all possible mediums to find their daughter.”

The court argued that by doing so, they “ended up acquiring a public reputation and entered the public sphere” and that they “inevitably exposed themselves” to scrutiny for their actions. 

The ECHR also argued that Goncalo Amaral’s book was in “the interest of public debate” and that the public “had a legitimate interest in being informed” about the disappearance of Maddie McCann.

Moreover, “The court believes that the declarations in question constitute value judgments based on a sufficient factual base. In fact, the elements in which Goncalo Amaral based his argumentation were gathered during the investigation and disclosed to the public”, said the court.

Regarding the right to be presumed innocent, the ECHR said that the book was released before the parents were descarded as being involved with the incident by the Portuguese Public Ministery. 

Kate and Gerry McCann’s lawyer, Ricardo Correia Afonso, said that they will not be appealing the decision but that they are “disappointed,” reports Reuters.

“The focus is now rightly on the search for Madeleine and her abductor(s). We are grateful for the ongoing work by the British, German, and Portuguese police”, said the lawyer in a statement. 

Known as Maddie, Madeleine McCann disappeared in 2017 from Praia da Luz, Algarve, at 3 years old. The British toddler went missing from her family’s holiday rental apartment while her parents had dinner with friends at a nearby restaurant.

In April of 2022, German child abuser Christian Brueckner, 44, was made an official suspect in the disappearance of Madeleine McCann by the Portuguese authorities. The investigation is being conducted with the help of the British and German authorities. 

Fall Guide to Lisbon: Fall Activities in Lisbon 2022

Lara Silva
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0
Fall Guide to Lisbon: Fall Activities in Lisbon 2022

Fall brings with it the changing color of the leaves. Gold, red, and orange fill the trees in parks and roads in Lisbon, creating a cozy atmosphere. The smell of castanhas fills the air, and the Portuguese celebrate their fall holiday, Sao Martinho.

The weather begins to cool as summer fades. However, in contrast to other European countries, Portugal, a country in Southwestern Europe, enjoys moderate temperatures in the Fall. 

During fall in Lisbon, Pumpkin lattes might not surface all over Lisbon, but the capital has its fair share of traditions, customs, and activities to celebrate the start of the new season. This guide will ensure you make the most of the Portuguese capital, from museums to exploring the city, even on rainy days. 

Travel Guide to Lisbon

Lisbon in Fall: Lisbon Weather in Fall

Fall in Portugal begins on September 23 and ends on December 21. During Lisbon fall, you can expect quite a bit of rain. Autumn is the rainiest season in Portugal. It rains the most in November and December, with 9 and 10 days of rain, respectively. In October, it rains for 8 days out of the month. 

However, fall is not as cold as in other European countries. Throughout the fall months, temperatures range between 9°C (48.2°F) and 23°C (73.4°F).

10 Best Lisbon Fall Activities

Lisbon has a ton of activities that are perfect for fall. We have selected some outdoor and indoor outdoor activities for when it rains in Lisbon. 

1. Celebrate Sao Martinho, the fall holiday

Known as Sao Martinho, Saint Martin’s day falls on November 11. This iconic fall holiday celebrates a man who cut his cloak in half during a snowstorm to keep a beggar warm. However, the holiday in Portugal now celebrates the maturation of wine production during the year.

The staple of this holiday is the roasted castanhas (chestnuts), which are tasted along with wine in the magusto, a celebration festival.

Most Portuguese towns have a magusto during the holiday, as well as different Sao Martinho parties. In Lisbon, head to Fabrica da Musa, where you will find castanhas, artisanal beer, wine, and loads of Portuguese food. 

Throughout Fall, you will also find castanhas being sold all over the city. They are roasted in front of you in a wheeled quiosque, and the smell is unbelievable! The castanhas are then served by being wrapped in paper into a cone.

Lisbon in Fall
Photo by F Delventhal (Flickr)
Photo by lilivanili (Flickr)

2. Take the scenic route of the number 28 Tram

One of the best ways to see Lisbon in the fall is on the number 28 tram. Although the tram is a public transport service, due to the places it rides through, think of it as an affordable tourist tour.

This tram line connects Martim Moniz with Campo do Ourique. The tram stops in popular tourist districts such as Alfama, Baixa, Estrela, and grace. 

In a traditional yellow tram, you will ride a scenic route through Lisbon’s narrow and steep streets, the perfect fall morning in Lisbon.

We recommend riding the train early in the morning to avoid crowds. Make sure to beware of pickpocketers!

Fall in Lisbon
Tram 28. Photo by Portuguese Gravity (Unsplash)

3. Explore the prestigious Calouste Gulbenkian Museum

The Gulbenkian Museum is one of the world’s best museums, housing a collection of Egyptian, Greek, Roman, Islamic, Asian, and European art. The private art collection belongs to the Calouste Gulbenkian Foundation, gathered over 40 years.

If you are an art lover, do not miss it. You will see pieces by Paula Rego, Rembrandt, Monet, and Peter Paul Rubens. The beautiful Gulbenkian gardens are also open to the public and are the perfect place for a picnic. 

Lisbon in Fall
Calouste Gulbenkian Museum. Photo by Rui Alves (Unsplash)

Book Calouste Gulbenkian Museum Entry Ticket  

4. Spot the otters at Lisbon Oceanarium

The Oceanário de Lisboa in Parque das Nações, the city ‘s aquarium, is one of the largest in Europe. With over 8,000 sea creatures and incredibly cute otters, this is the perfect activity for the whole family.

There are over 7 million liters of seawater at the oceanarium. This place is a sea life lover’s dream, from mantas and eyeball zebra sharks to rays.

The Lisbon oceanarium is geared toward conservation and does not offer any entertainment shows. The largest environmental education program is also run here. 

Lisbon in fall
Oceanario de Lisboa. Photo by Max Kukurudziak (Unsplash)

Book Lisbon Oceanarium Entry Ticket  

5. Enjoy European and American art at Berardo Collection Museum

Located in the Belem Cultural Center, Berardo Collection Museum opened in 2007. Ever since, it has been one of the most impressive museums in Portugal. There are around 1000 pieces in the collection, starting in the 20th century.

The collection focuses mostly on European and American art. You will get to see pieces from Andy Warhol, Picasso, Paula Rego, and more across two floors.

Lisbon in fall
Berardo Collection Museum. Photo by Enrico Da Prato (Unsplash)

Book Museu Colecao Berardo Entry Ticket  

6. Visit the Jardim da Estrela

What better place to see fall in action than a park? Jardim da Estrela is the perfect place to see the leaves fall. Located near Basilica da Estrela, this park is a place where all the locals meet. It’s commonplace for older people to sit in the shade socializing and to find couples taking walks through the park.

Bring some blankets and enjoy a fall picnic at the park if the weather allows it. Jardim da Estrela also features a large playground for children to enjoy. Bands also tend to occasionally play on the bandstand at the park, so you might be lucky enough to spot a free concert.

lisbon in fall
Jardim da Estrela. Photo by Freguesia de Estrela (Unsplash)

7. Walk through Avenida da Liberdade

In the fall, the hundreds of trees in Avenida da Liberdade paint a beautiful picture of red, orange, and gold. This boulevard in Lisbon is famous for being one of the most expensive shopping streets in Lisbon. Built-in 1979, the avenue is also the home to embassies, hotels, and restaurants. 

If you are not looking to splurge on luxurious items such as Prada and Louis Vuitton, we recommend walking along the 1-kilometer-long avenue. The avenue is divided by pedestrian pavements and features decorative gardens.

Lisbon in fall
Avenida da Liberdade. Photo by Alice Kotlyarenko (Unsplash)

8. Take a Tuk Tuk Tour of Lisbon

This is one is especially fun for those who get easily bored at museums but need an activity in Lisbon on a rainy day. Book this private electric tuk tuk tour of Lisbon with a local guide. This tour is an eco-friendly way to visit the best sights in the city.

The tour stops at all the major attractions such as Alfama and Mouraria, the historic neighborhoods, as well as Praca do Comercio and Belem. The tuk tuk also stops at the best Lisbon viewpoints for photo ops of the city. 

Book Private Electric Tuk Tuk Tour of Lisbon  

9. Day trip to the hidden gem of Sintra

While many prefer to visit Sintra in the Spring and Summer, there’s so much to be said about this city in Autumn. Sintra could bet the set to a Halloween movie, particularly on cloudy and foggy days. 

If you believe in that kind of stuff, Sintra is said to be a special place surrounded by mysticism. It is said that Satanists and witches take to Sintra’s forests to perform rituals and that magic fills the city. 

Regardless, Sintra remains one of the most beautiful cities in Portugal. A 30-minute drive from the center of Lisbon, Sintra is known for its forested terrain, astonishing palaces that once belonged to royal families, and the delicious “Travesseiro de Sintra.” 

We recommend taking a day tour from Lisbon to experience Sintra to the fullest. However, if you go on your own, do not miss the Pena Palace, the Castle of the Moors, and the Quinta da Regaleira.

Lisbon in fall
Sintra. Photo by Levi Ari Pronk (Unsplash)

Book Sintra & Cascais Tour from Lisbon  

10. Fado show

A Fado house, known as a Casa de Fado, is a cultural staple of Lisbon, particularly in the Fado neighborhood of Alfama. These Fado houses allow you to enjoy live music performances of Fado classics by Amalia Rodrigues and others. These usually include a dinner menu where you get to try Portuguese specialties. 

Some of the most famous Fado houses are Fado in Chiado, Clube de Fado and Parreirinha de Alfama. However, we always recommend asking the locals!

Book Fado ticket here to skip the line

Halloween in Lisbon

Halloween is not as celebrated as in the United States or the United Kingdom by adults. While a few clubs might have Halloween-themed nights, that’s about it for those over 20. You won’t find people dressing up for work in Halloween costumes.  

However, a Halloween party for the little ones is customary in schools as kids tend to dress up and enjoy candy.

Nevertheless, trick or treating is not a large custom in Portugal on October 31st. Although it can happen in smaller gated communities with international populations, it is not so common in major towns and villages.

However, many Christian Portuguese still celebrate the Day of the Dead on November 1st to remember relatives they lost.

On this day, there’s a Portuguese tradition similar to trick or treating called “Bread for God.” This is where kids ask for “Pao-por-Deus” and receive candy and bread in exchange. This is a religious tradition and is thus not done by all Portuguese. 

Halloween in Lisbon
Photo by Szabó János (Unsplash)

Lisbon Fall: What to Pack

Luckily, while it does rain a bit during Fall, temperatures are not too low. It’s still important to pack accordingly, however. Here is a list of items to pack for Lisbon in the fall:

  • Jeans
  • T-shirts
  • Long-sleeve sweaters
  • Scarf
  • Warm shoes and/or sneakers
  • Boots
  • Hat
  • Sunglasses
  • Sunscreen (the sun is strong even in Fall)
  • Jacket
  • Raincoat with hood

In the fall in Lisbon, you might be lucky to have a few days of warmer weather, especially in October. Bring a couple of items for warmer days, just in case:

  • Shorts
  • Bathing suit (you never know!)

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Hackers publish data of 1.5 million TAP clients

Lara Silva
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0
Hackers publish data of 1.5 million TAP clients

The hacker group Ragnar Locker has published the data of 1.5 million TAP clients. 581 gigabytes of personal information have been online since Monday. In a post on the dark web, the hacker group said that they still have remote access to the systems of TAP. 

The published personal data includes addresses, phone numbers, client names, and the identification documents of professionals and TAP partners.

Expresso has said that TAP did not negotiate a ransom payment to stop the publication of client data. 

In a post on the dark web, Ragnar Locker said, “the most interesting thing is that they have not resolved the vulnerabilities on their network, and these kinds of incidents can happen again. If anyone needs remote access to TAP Air, let us know.” 

TAP contacted the affected clients on Tuesday, saying that the publishing of their data can “increase the risk” of “illegitimate use” of their data. 

TAP has also said that “the adopted measures allow us to guarantee the integrity of the data and the operation of all systems safely.” 

In early September, TAP confirmed it had been a cyberattack victim but that the situation was under control.

However, at the time, Ragnar Locker said in a post, “A few days ago, TAP Air Portugal made a press announcement confidently affirming that it has successfully solved a cyberattack and that data was not compromised (but we have reasons to believe that hundreds of gigabytes could be compromised).”

TAP Air Portugal is the state-owned airline of Portugal and the largest in the country, accounting for more than 50% of arrivals and departures at the Lisbon Airport.

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