Spain is known for its sunny skies, delicious food, iconic landmarks and rich culture, making it a popular destination for British expats. However, the process of moving to Spain from the UK can be filled with challenges. The logistics involved with an international relocation, from packing your items securely to dealing with customs regulations, can be a lot to handle. Ensuring the safety of your possessions during transit is a top priority, as not only do they hold monetary value, but sentimental value as well. 

With some careful planning and the right strategies, you can safely transport your items and make your relocation stress-free. Here’s a guide to help you navigate the process of arranging removals to Spain from the UK, ensuring your belongings arrive safely at your new home, ready for you to start this new chapter of your life. 

Start with a Plan

The key to a successful overseas move is planning. Begin by creating a detailed inventory of everything you’re planning to transport to your new home. This not only helps you stay organised but also makes it easier to determine what you really need to take with you. Consider the layout and size of your new home in Spain, it might not accommodate all of your current furniture or decor. This is the perfect opportunity to declutter, reducing the number of items you’re transporting and potentially the cost of your move. 

Choose the Right Removal Company

For removals to Spain from the UK, selecting a reputable and experienced removal company is essential. Look for companies that specialise in international removals and have a good understanding of the logistics involved in moving to Spain. They should offer comprehensive services, including full packing services and secure storage services. Removal teams should be equipped with the knowledge and expertise to help you navigate the challenges of relocating to Spain, providing you with peace of mind. Their experience ensures they can offer tailored advice and solutions, making the transportation of your belongings as seamless as possible.

Professional Packing Services

The safety of your belongings is directly impacted by how well they are packed. Professional packing services are always worth exploring, especially for your most valuable and fragile items. Removal teams will use high-quality materials to properly secure your belongings, reducing the risk of damage during transit. If you decide to pack some items yourself, ensure you use the correct protective materials and follow the best practices for securing and cushioning your items. Remember, the right packing techniques can ensure your belongings reach your new home in the same condition they left the UK. 

Insurance is Essential

Whenever you’re moving belongings overseas, the correct insurance is crucial. It protects your items against loss or damage during the move and can provide peace of mind. Discuss insurance options with your removal company to find out whether it’s included in the quote you receive for removal services and ensure you have adequate coverage. Make sure you understand the terms and conditions of the policy too, including any deductibles and the claims process. Adequate insurance coverage offers much-needed protection, knowing that you’re prepared for any eventuality during the move.

Understand Customs Rules 

Moving to Spain involves navigating customs regulations. It’s beneficial to familiarise yourself with the required documentation and any restrictions on items that can be imported into Spain. Your removal company should assist you with this process, ensuring that all paperwork is correctly completed and kept with your items in case it’s needed by customs or local authorities. This preparation can prevent delays and ensure a smoother customs clearance for your belongings. Being well-prepared in this aspect can reduce the chances of unexpected fees or legal issues, reducing the stress associated with an overseas move. 

Prepare for Arrival

Once your belongings arrive in Spain, inspect everything carefully for any signs of damage. If you’ve opted for a door-to-door service, the removal company will handle the unloading and placement of items in your new home. However, it’s useful to have a plan for the unpacking process. Prioritise unpacking essential items first and work through your boxes to make the settling-in process as smooth as possible. This can help to speed up the process of making your new house feel like a home, and it also enables you to identify any issues with your items or damages that need addressing. 

Booking Removals to Spain from the UK

It’s fair to say that moving to Spain from the UK requires careful planning and preparation. By following these steps, you can ensure the safe transport of your belongings overseas. Choosing the right removal company is a key step in the process and our team at Malaga Removals is here to help you with your relocation. We have an unparalleled understanding of removals to Spain from the UK and we can help you to start a new life with everything you need to make your new house feel like home. Don’t hesitate to contact our team if you’d like to discuss your removal needs in more detail and find out more about how we can help you.

Deciding to move to a new country is an exciting opportunity to start a new life. Whether you’re relocating for the sunnier climate or a career transition, for instance, the process involves significant planning and organisation. One of the main concerns for lots of homeowners is managing the costs associated with moving

Removal costs from the UK to Spain can vary considerably depending on several factors, including the number of items being moved, the services required and the distance between locations. However, there are strategies to minimise moving expenses without compromising the quality and safety of your move. Here are some practical tips to help you reduce your removal costs and make your relocation as hassle-free and affordable as possible.

Declutter Before You Pack

The number of items you’re transporting is a major factor in your removal costs. One of the most effective ways to reduce these costs is by decluttering your home before you start packing. This not only minimises the number of boxes that need transporting, but also gives you a chance to start afresh in your new Spanish home. You can sell, donate or recycle items you no longer need or use, and this can also help to reduce packing and unpacking time. By moving only what is necessary, you can significantly cut down on transportation costs. 

Plan Your Move During Off-Peak Times

When you move can impact your removal costs. Generally speaking, moving during off-peak times, such as during the winter months, can be more cost-effective than moving during the summer. Many removal companies, including those who specialise in removals to Spain, offer lower rates during these periods due to decreased demand. So, planning your move for these times can lead to considerable savings. Not to mention, less demand means more flexibility in scheduling your move, potentially allowing for a smoother transition. 

Compare Different Quotes

Whenever you’re relocating to Spain, it can be useful to get removal quotes from different companies. This not only helps you understand the average cost of international removal services, which are almost guaranteed to be higher than removal services you’ve used previously in the UK, but it puts you in a better position to choose the best company for your move. Make sure you’re comparing like-for-like services and looking out for any hidden costs that could drastically affect the overall cost of your move. 

Consider Part-Load Services

If you’re not moving a full household, part-load or shared-load services can offer significant savings. This option involves sharing container or truck space with other customers who are also moving to the same destination. While this might mean a longer delivery window, it can be much more budget-friendly. Part-load removal services are ideal for anyone with smaller moves and flexible timelines, and they’re a cost-effective alternative to private removal services.

Pack Smartly and Efficiently

The cost of packing materials can add up quickly. While ensuring your belongings are secure is essential, there are ways to reduce costs. Use suitcases, for example, to pack clothes and other smaller items. For padding and protection, use towels and linens, instead of purchasing bubble wrap. However, professional packing services might be a worthwhile investment for valuable and fragile items to prevent costly damages. Efficient packing not only saves on materials but also maximises space, potentially reducing the size of the vehicle needed.

Insure Your Belongings

While this might seem counterintuitive when looking to reduce the cost of removals, ensuring your belongings are insured can save you a significant amount of money if something is lost or damaged. Speak to your removal company and find out whether insurance is included in the removal services, as well as how much cover is provided. Insurance not only protects your belongings but also provides reassurance, knowing that you’re covered against unforeseen circumstances during the move.

Getting a Quote for International Removals  

Moving home is always an expensive process and if you’re relocating abroad, there are a range of expenses to consider. Hopefully, the information above will help you to reduce your removal costs and ensure you’re getting the best value for your money when booking removal services. Careful planning and preparation can go a long way in making your move to Spain more successful and enjoyable.

If you’d like to get a quote and find out more about removal costs from the UK to Spain, you can complete the form on the Malage Removals’ website today. By telling us more about your move, including collection and delivery addresses, as well as the items you’d like to be included in your move, we can provide you with an accurate estimate. We offer free, no-obligation quotes for people moving to Spain from the UK and we’re happy to help you budget for your upcoming move. Don’t hesitate to contact us today if you have any questions. 

Relocating from the UK to Spain is an exciting journey, but before you can start settling into your new home, there is a lot to organise. The process of moving house can be overwhelming and when you add in the factor of moving overseas, it can be incredibly stressful. To help ensure a smooth transition, it’s essential to approach your house removal from the UK to Spain with careful planning and the right support. Here’s a guide to help make your move as stress-free as possible, ensuring a seamless adjustment to your new life abroad. 

Start with Early Planning

The key to a successful move is to start planning early. Create a comprehensive checklist of tasks you need to do, such as sorting through your belongings and notifying relevant parties of your move. Early planning gives you enough time to handle unexpected challenges and reduces last-minute rushes that can cause additional stress. Not to mention, this allows you to prioritise tasks and manage your time effectively, ensuring everything gets done before moving day. 

Declutter and Organise

Before you even think about packing, take the time to declutter. Moving is the perfect opportunity to sort through your belongings and decide what to keep, sell, donate or discard. This not only simplifies the packing process but also reduces the amount of items you need to move, potentially lowering your moving costs. Decluttering also enables you to start afresh in your new home and embrace a new beginning in Spain. 

Choose a Reliable Removal Service

Selecting a reliable removal service is crucial for a stress-free move. Look for a company with experience in house removals from the UK to Spain, they can provide valuable insights into what to expect and assist you with customs documents and procedures to ensure a smooth experience. Ensure the company you choose can assist with everything you need, from full packing and transportation services to storage services, so you don’t have the hassle of booking different services with different providers. 

Understand Legal and Financial Aspects

Familiarise yourself with the legal and financial aspects of moving to Spain from the UK. This includes understanding visa requirements, tax implications and setting up a bank account in Spain. Getting these details sorted well in advance can prevent last-minute complications and enable you to focus on the moving process. Make sure you keep all important documents somewhere safe too, so you don’t lose passports or marriage certificates in the move. 

Plan for Your New Home

Research your new neighbourhood in Spain and visit a few times before you move. Getting to know your new home can help you to feel more prepared and less anxious about relocating to Spain. Familiarise yourself with where amenities, schools and healthcare facilities are, as well as local culture and customers, to ensure a stress-free transition into Spanish life. Doing basic research can be useful when you live in Spain. 

Pack Smart

Packing can be one of the most time-consuming parts of moving. Label boxes clearly and keep an inventory of packed items. Consider hiring professional packers, especially for bulky pieces of furniture which are difficult to move. Companies experienced in house removals from the UK to Spain can offer expert services, ensuring your belongings are safely transported. Organised packing also eases the unpacking process, helping you settle into your new home quickly. 

Prepare for the First Few Days

Pack an ‘essentials’ box with items you’ll need immediately when you arrive at your new home, such as toiletries, a few changes of clothes and important documents. Having these essentials at hand can make the first few days in your new home more comfortable when you’re waiting for the rest of your belongings to arrive. This reduces the stress of searching for necessities after a tiring journey and helps you start on the right foot.

Take Time to Relax

Amidst the hustle of moving, don’t forget to take care of yourself. Moving to a new country is a significant change and you should allocate time for relaxation and saying proper goodbyes to friends and family. Moving is not just a physical process but an emotional one too. Reflecting on the change, embracing the excitement and mentally preparing for this new chapter in your life can make the whole experience more enjoyable. 

Planning House Removals from the UK to Spain 

Moving from the UK to Spain can be a fulfilling experience with the right preparation and support. By planning ahead, staying organised and choosing experienced professionals to assist you, you can look forward to starting your new life in Spain with minimal stress. By taking into consideration everything mentioned above, this new journey will be one filled with positive experiences and memories.

If you’re searching for an experienced removal team to assist you with removal services, take a look at the Malaga Removals website. We specialise in international removal to Spain and our removal experts can make your move as straightforward as possible. You can get a quote for our services online and we will be happy to answer any questions you may have. Our local knowledge and years of experience will ensure your move is stress-free. 

When you’re moving house, there are several important decisions to make. One of which is which pieces of furniture are you going to take with you? Unlike when you’re moving elsewhere in the UK, when you’re moving abroad you may decide that selling, donating or recycling furniture pieces is a better option than taking them with you. Here at 

Malaga Removals, not only do we provide professional removals to Spain, but we offer a convenient alternative to taking your own furniture with you. Our unique online shopping service allows you to order new items for your Spanish home with ease. Below we have put together some useful advice to help you make those all-important decisions about which furniture to bring along on your international move. 

Evaluate What to Take

Start by assessing your current pieces of furniture. Consider the size, style and sentimental value of each piece. Will your large sofa fit into your new Spanish home? Does an antique dresser hold sentimental value? It’s essential to weigh the cost and practicality of moving each item against its importance to you. Don’t forget to factor in the climate and environmental conditions of your new home. Some materials aren’t suited to warmer weather and this could influence your decision on what to bring. 

Consider the New Space

Consider the layout and size of your new home in Spain. This can impact your decision on which pieces of furniture to bring. For instance, bulky furniture might not be suitable for a cosy apartment on the coast. It’s beneficial to request a floor plan or at least the dimensions of your new space to make informed decisions. Consider the architectural style and interior design of your new home as well. Some furniture pieces may not fit the aesthetic of the space. 

Balancing Cost and Necessity

Moving furniture internationally can be expensive. Sometimes, it’s more cost-effective to sell or donate your current furniture and buy new items upon arrival. This is where Malaga Removals’ online furniture shopping service can be useful, offering a convenient way to furnish your new home in Spain from the comfort of your current one. This approach enables you to choose the most cost-effective option and find new furniture that compliments your Spanish home.

Style and Design Considerations

The style of your existing furniture should complement your new home. Spanish interiors often feature vibrant colours and Mediterranean influences, which might clash with some classic furniture styles. Consider the functionality of your furniture in the new space as well, for example, storage options that were ideal in your UK home may not be as necessary or suitable when you live in Spain. 

Practicality and Comfort

Consider the practicality of each piece of furniture. For example, your built-in wardrobe might be the perfect storage option or your favourite recliner might be ideal for relaxation, but are they practical to transport? Prioritise items that offer comfort and utility, especially for your first few weeks when you’re settling into your new home. Also, think about the long-term suitability of each item, furniture that fits your lifestyle in the UK might not translate as well to your new life in Spain, both in terms of style and function.

Shipping and Removals

Once you’ve decided on what to take, consider the logistics of transporting everything. A reputable company that specialises in furniture removal from the UK to Spain can manage the safe transportation of your cherished belongings, ensuring they arrive in perfect condition. Companies that are skilled in handling the intricacies of international moves, from packing delicate items to navigating customs, will ensure a smoother transition for your belongings.

Using Malaga Removals’ Online Furniture Shopping Service

To make the process of furnishing your Spanish home much easier, at Malaga Removals we offer an innovative online furniture shopping service. This allows you to purchase furniture for your new home from stores like IKEA, John Lewis and DFS while still in the UK. This service not only saves time and hassle, but also ensures your new home is comfortable from the moment you arrive. It also gives you the opportunity to furnish your new living space to suit your needs and tastes perfectly, so you won’t have to compromise. 

Planning Furniture Removals from the UK to Spain 

Deciding which furniture to pack when moving from the UK to Spain involves a careful consideration of space, style, cost and practicality. Don’t rush this decision and remember, you want your new Spanish house to feel like home. With the right planning and the help of experienced professionals, you can move your furniture without any problems. 

If you’d like to find out how our team at Malaga Removals can assist you with international removal services, don’t hesitate to contact us today. Our removal experts will be happy to answer any questions you have and we can provide you with useful guidance when planning a move to Spain from the UK. We can also tell you more about our online shopping service, so you can decide whether you’d like to pack old pieces of furniture or buy something new. 

Moving to Portugal Tips n Tricks

Cost of Living In The Algarve PortugalCost of living in Portugal is 23.99% lower than in United Kingdom (aggregate data for all cities, rent is not taken into account). Rent in Portugal is 41.64% lower than in United Kingdom (average data for all cities). (Data taken August 2017)

To Find out How Much it would cost to relocate to the Algarve Contact us for a quotation:

 

 

 

Restaurants Range
Meal, Inexpensive Restaurant 7.00 € 5.509.00
Meal for 2 People, Mid-range Restaurant, Three-course 30.00 € 20.0040.00
McMeal at McDonalds (or Equivalent Combo Meal) 5.70 € 5.006.00
Domestic Beer (0.5 liter draught) 1.50 € 1.002.00
Imported Beer (0.33 liter bottle) 2.00 € 1.033.00
Cappuccino (regular) 1.18 € 0.702.00
Coke/Pepsi (0.33 liter bottle) 1.17 € 1.001.50
Water (0.33 liter bottle) 0.85 € 0.501.00
Markets
Milk (regular), (1 liter) 0.58 € 0.490.75
Loaf of Fresh White Bread (500g) 1.02 € 0.741.50
Rice (white), (1kg) 0.83 € 0.651.00
Eggs (regular) (12) 1.59 € 1.202.00
Local Cheese (1kg) 7.30 € 5.0010.00
Chicken Breasts (Boneless, Skinless), (1kg) 5.29 € 3.797.00
Beef Round (1kg) (or Equivalent Back Leg Red Meat) 8.58 € 6.0012.00
Apples (1kg) 1.39 € 1.001.99
Banana (1kg) 1.10 € 0.901.70
Oranges (1kg) 1.12 € 0.801.60
Tomato (1kg) 1.30 € 0.901.99
Potato (1kg) 0.75 € 0.501.10
Onion (1kg) 0.81 € 0.501.34
Lettuce (1 head) 0.86 € 0.501.40
Water (1.5 liter bottle) 0.53 € 0.201.00
Bottle of Wine (Mid-Range) 4.00 € 3.005.00
Domestic Beer (0.5 liter bottle) 0.93 € 0.601.50
Imported Beer (0.33 liter bottle) 1.39 € 0.802.09
Pack of Cigarettes (Marlboro) 4.80 € 4.505.00
Transportation
One-way Ticket (Local Transport) 1.50 € 1.201.85
Monthly Pass (Regular Price) 35.65 € 30.0042.65
Taxi Start (Normal Tariff) 3.40 € 3.003.90
Taxi 1km (Normal Tariff) 0.51 € 0.471.00
Taxi 1hour Waiting (Normal Tariff) 14.80 € 14.0020.00
Gasoline (1 liter) 1.44 € 1.301.53
Volkswagen Golf 1.4 90 KW Trendline (Or Equivalent New Car) 25,000.00 € 21,000.0027,000.00
Toyota Corolla 1.6l 97kW Comfort (Or Equivalent New Car) 24,482.05 € 21,400.0028,000.00
Utilities (Monthly)
Basic (Electricity, Heating, Water, Garbage) for 85m2 Apartment 88.06 € 51.00130.00
1 min. of Prepaid Mobile Tariff Local (No Discounts or Plans) 0.14 € 0.080.27
Internet (60 Mbps or More, Unlimited Data, Cable/ADSL) 26.71 € 20.0038.00
Sports And Leisure
Fitness Club, Monthly Fee for 1 Adult 35.25 € 27.5050.00
Tennis Court Rent (1 Hour on Weekend) 11.46 € 5.0020.00
Cinema, International Release, 1 Seat 6.00 € 6.007.00
Childcare
Preschool (or Kindergarten), Private, Monthly for 1 Child 414.80 € 300.00650.00
International Primary School, Yearly for 1 Child 9,940.74 € 6,000.0011,000.00
Clothing And Shoes
1 Pair of Jeans (Levis 501 Or Similar) 78.23 € 45.00100.00
1 Summer Dress in a Chain Store (Zara, H&M, …) 27.78 € 20.0040.00
1 Pair of Nike Running Shoes (Mid-Range) 70.40 € 50.0096.00
1 Pair of Men Leather Business Shoes 77.18 € 50.00120.00
Rent Per Month
Apartment (1 bedroom) in City Centre 490.24 € 300.00750.00
Apartment (1 bedroom) Outside of Centre 340.51 € 250.00500.00
Apartment (3 bedrooms) in City Centre 859.98 € 500.001,400.00
Apartment (3 bedrooms) Outside of Centre 582.79 € 390.00900.00
Buy Apartment Price
Price per Square Meter to Buy Apartment in City Centre 1,831.75 € 1,000.003,379.00
Price per Square Meter to Buy Apartment Outside of Centre 1,151.65 € 850.001,750.00
Salaries And Financing
Average Monthly Net Salary (After Tax) 805.04 €
Mortgage Interest Rate in Percentages (%), Yearly 3.03 2.004.50

Prices in Portugal

These data are based on 13741 entries in the past 18 months from 1210 different contributors.
Last update: August 2017
Our data for each country are based on all entries from all cities in that country.

 

 

To Find out How Much it would cost to relocate to the Algarve Contact us for a quotation:

 

Algarve Removals is a family run, international relocation company. We have over 15 years’ experience in the Transport and Removals Trade. We now specialise in offering our clients a more professional and convenient solution when moving to The Algarve, Portugal.

At Algarve Removals we can assure you that your personal effects will be treated with utmost care, ensuring you with a trouble-free removal from start to finish. Moving to The Algarve could not be simpler, as we are here to give you first hand advice on moving abroad.

We offer a removal service from 1 box to a full house, and provide 3 choices of service, which makes your removal very cost effective:

Door to Door | Door to Depot | Depot to Depot

Fill out our Online Quote Forms for an easy and obligation free quote. We will answer any questions you have, using our vast first-hand knowledge and experience of relocating to Portugal and back to the UK and Ireland.

Please also visit our packing and storage service pages for more information on the different types of services we can offer.

Car Exports to Portugal

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Moving to Portugal Tips n Tricks

Moving to Portugal Tips n TricksWe have compiled a collection of helpful tips, useful websites and general information for those looking to move to Portugal. If you have any suggestions or can recommend any interesting websites – I’d love to hear from you…

To Find out How Much it would cost to relocate to the Algarve Contact us for a quotation:

 

 

1. Many motorways in Portugal have tolls. Some have tollbooths, but others only have an electronic system for paying, which is operated by Via Verde Portugal. Toll machines can be hired or bought in special Via Verde shops or at Portuguese post offices. If you end up on a Via Verde without a toll machine, you will need to pay the toll within 48 hours or you will earn a fine on top of the toll fee.

2. Attending school is compulsory in Portugal from the ages of six to fifteen and is called Ensino Básico (basic education). Education can either be state or private. Despite education being free in the state system, you will be expected to purchase books and other equipment.

3. Before the age of six, your child can attend a pre-school (kindergarten) if you so wish. There are a variety of types of pre-school, including state, private, charitable and cooperatives. Registration occurs during June and July. Requirements are typically a medical check, birth certificate, health card showing vaccinations and an inscription form.

4.There are also private schools teaching the Portuguese national curriculum and others that teach an international curriculum in various foreign languages. However, very few of these schools will go up to the secondary level. The schools should be registered with the Portuguese Ministry of Education. Note that an international curriculum is not automatically accepted by the Portuguese education system and so this should be considered when you are selecting a school and curriculum.

5. Once living in Portugal, you can apply for a Cartão de Utente (health card). This card gives foreign residents the same rights to treatment as Portuguese citizens and depending on circumstances, discounts on medicines. If you do not have this card and are permanently resident in Portugal, you will need to have private medical insurance.

6. Farmácias (chemists) are open in every town during normal shopping hours, which are typically 9 A.M. to 1 P.M. and 3 P.M. to 7 P.M. Outside of these hours there is a Farmácia de Serviço (duty chemist) available. Every chemist should have a list of the duty chemists in the area on its door. A chemist can also usually offer advice when you are unable to get to your health centre or family doctor.

7. As with all big decisions in life, research is the key and one must always remember that living somewhere is completely different to holidaying there.

8. Relocating on a permanent basis to another country, especially one which has a different language and culture, needs thorough planning. If you have children and need to work, this is even more crucial.

9. Initial Residency Certificate: After three months, and within 30 days, you must apply for an initial residency certificate at your local Câmara Municipal (council) or Freguesia (parish council).

10. The documents that may be required are a passport or national ID card, your Portuguese fiscal number, which is obtained from the local Serviço das Finanças (tax office), a European health card, proof of address and income (or you may simply be required to make a self-declaration regarding whether you are employed, self-employed or have other means to live), and proof of health insurance if you are not entitled to the Portuguese health system. Sometimes other details regarding your education and family are required.

 

To Find out How Much it would cost to relocate to the Algarve Contact us for a quotation:

 

Algarve Removals is a family run, international relocation company. We have over 15 years’ experience in the Transport and Removals Trade. We now specialise in offering our clients a more professional and convenient solution when moving to The Algarve, Portugal.

At Algarve Removals we can assure you that your personal effects will be treated with utmost care, ensuring you with a trouble-free removal from start to finish. Moving to The Algarve could not be simpler, as we are here to give you first hand advice on moving abroad.

We offer a removal service from 1 box to a full house, and provide 3 choices of service, which makes your removal very cost effective:

Door to Door | Door to Depot | Depot to Depot

Fill out our Online Quote Forms for an easy and obligation free quote. We will answer any questions you have, using our vast first-hand knowledge and experience of relocating to Portugal and back to the UK and Ireland.

Please also visit our packing and storage service pages for more information on the different types of services we can offer.

Car Exports to Portugal

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10 Reasons to Move to the Algarve in Portugal

10 Reasons to Move to the Algarve in PortugalAlgarve Removals have for many years been moving our clients from the UK to Portugal, those relocating for business or retirement puroposes and those lucky enough to have a second home and not forgetting all the businesses that we transport goods for.

To Find out How Much it would cost to relocate to the Algarve Contact us for a quotation:

So we have compiled the Top 10 Reasons to Move to the Algarve in Portugal

1. Climate

3,000 hours of sunshine per year, cooling ocean breezes to moderate the summer heat, and seasonal rainfall all contribute to a great climate. No wonder Andalusians have been snapping up holiday homes in the area!

Boca-de-rio-beach-2
Boca de Rio Beach

2. Accessibility

Faro is among the best-served warm weather destinations for cheap flights from UK and European cities. The 2h 30m flight time puts it within easy weekend reach. A modern, fast motorway network connects the Western Algarve to Faro, Seville, Lisbon and beyond.

10 Reasons to Move to the Algarve in Portugal3. Easy Getting Around

Traffic is light, congestion non-existent and parking easy.

4. People and Community

The local Portuguese are friendly, tolerant, welcoming, and most speak English. There is a sizeable expat community drawn from many European countries, with the British and Irish accounting for more than half. Brits have been settling in the Algarve for more than 30 years, and are well established and represented in local business and social structures. There is excellent, inexpensive, English language private education to GCSE level, a thriving Anglican church, plus Lions, Rotarians, an Anglo-Portuguese Chamber of Commerce and other bodies.

5. Environment

The air and water are clean and the countryside unspoilt, with a low population and lots of wide, open space. There is no industry or large-scale agriculture. A strict national planning regime preserves areas of special biological interest and protects from over-development. West of Lagos lies the Costa Vicentina Nature Park, with its 150 km of protected coastline, its dramatic cliff and rock formations, and some of the best beaches anywhere.

10 Reasons to Move to the Algarve in Portugal6. Sports and Leisure Opportunities

The Algarve has 35 golf courses, including some of Europe’s best. The Western Algarve includes the recently re-designed 27-hole Palmares course, with its links holes and magnificent ocean views, as well as Boavista, Parque da Floresta and the soon-to-be-opened course at Espiche.

As regards water sports, the west is the best for surfing, windsurfing, parasailing, sport fishing, yacht charters and sailing courses, with water-skiing, scuba diving and sport fishing also very well served.

There are great facilities for tennis, padel, squash, bowls, mountain biking, blo-karting and microlite flying. Many of the cliffs in the Sagres area are now marked out with climbing pitches.

The Kartódromo go-kart track at Portimão’s Autódromo is among the world’s premier karting venues, while the Autódromo itself is on the World Superbike Championship circuit.

The Sagres peninsula is a superb location for bird-watching, particularly during the seasonal migrations. Sagres is also at the western end of the Rota Vicentina, a walking trail that winds its way through 300 kilometres of the Algarve’s most beautiful countryside.

Algarve theme parks include Slide ‘n’ Splash, Aqualand, Zoomarine and the Fiesa sand sculpture park. The zoo at Barão S. João is focused on conservation and protection, and is a model of modern practice, with beautiful habitats for its 120 species, as well as a petting zoo for children.

The Department of Tourism sponsors Allgarve, a year-round programme of world-class cultural and sporting events, while the municipal cultural centres host concerts, art exhibitions and other activities.

7. Food and Drink

One of Portugal’s best-kept secrets is its gastronomy. Olives, figs, almonds, pine nuts, grapes and citrus, plus a wide range of seasonal produce including sweet potatoes, are all grown locally. Cheeses, particularly blended soft cheeses, cured hams, and the famous acorn-fed black pork from the Alentejo, are all excellent, as is the olive oil.

At the local fish markets you can find freshly caught Atlantic sea bass, stone bass and golden bream among other varieties, as well as oysters, mussels, clams, and a local delicacy perceves or goose barnacles.

The tradition of wine-making dates from ancient times, with Portugal even exporting to Rome during the Roman occupation. Best known for port, which is produced by a unique vinification method in the unique micro-climate of the Douro valley, Portugal actually possesses a wide array of native varietals and distinct regions, resulting in an abundant variety of excellent wines.

Modern techniques and equipment have transformed Algarve wine production, so that there are now some very good local boutique vineyards, such as Quinta do Barranco Longo in Algoz.

10 Reasons to Move to the Algarve in Portugal8. Reasonable Cost of Living

While the cheaper pound makes Portugal more expensive for Brits, it is still one of Europe’s lower-cost destinations. Property prices in the Western Algarve compare favourably to Spain and, while petrol and utility prices are relatively high, wages in Portugal are much lower than in Northern Europe. This means that basic living costs such as property ownership taxes, public transport and health are low, with services generally cheaper than in Northern Europe. Locally produced food and drink, beer, wines, spirits and cigarettes are also inexpensive.

It is worth noting that there is a favourable tax regime applicable to foreigners taking up residence in Portugal after 1st January 2010. Portuguese-sourced income from “high value-added activities” is subject to a low tax rate ceiling, while foreign-sourced income is not taxed in Portugal if it has already been taxed under an applicable double-taxation treaty.

9. Stable Political, Economic and Business Environment

Portugal joined the European Union in 1986 and has been part of the eurozone since its inception. As one of the poorer EU nations, Portugal has been the recipient of European structural funds to improve infrastructures. modernise industry and make businesses more competitive. The much lower interest rates under eurozone membership have stimulated home ownership and the economy generally, up until the current eurozone crisis.

Although bureaucracy is still an issue, there has been a gradual shift to easier, more transparent processes, and a marked reduction in tax evasion, corruption and fraud.

10. Good Health Services

The free national health service does a very good job of dealing with acute and emergency conditions, as well as routinely recurring procedures such as vaccinations. Waiting lists for non-emergency surgical procedures are limited to six months, or one year, depending upon the procedure. The cost of prescription medicines is subsidised and tax-deductible. The national health service is complemented by a network of private practices and hospitals, which are relatively Inexpensive. Private health insurance is also reasonably priced. Both dental and vetinary care are of a high standard and very reasonably priced.

To Find out How Much it would cost to relocate to the Algarve Contact us for a quotation:

Algarve Removals is a family run, international relocation company. We have over 15 years’ experience in the Transport and Removals Trade. We now specialise in offering our clients a more professional and convenient solution when moving to The Algarve, Portugal.

At Algarve Removals we can assure you that your personal effects will be treated with utmost care, ensuring you with a trouble-free removal from start to finish. Moving to The Algarve could not be simpler, as we are here to give you first hand advice on moving abroad.

We offer a removal service from 1 box to a full house, and provide 3 choices of service, which makes your removal very cost effective:

Door to Door | Door to Depot | Depot to Depot

Fill out our Online Quote Forms for an easy and obligation free quote. We will answer any questions you have, using our vast first-hand knowledge and experience of relocating to Portugal and back to the UK and Ireland.

Please also visit our packing and storage service pages for more information on the different types of services we can offer.