Good Morning America Spotlights Portugal: A Rising Star for US Citizens

The beloved morning show Good Morning America, America's top-rated program on ABC, recently showcased Portugal in its broadcasts on the 18th and 20th of June. Host Robin Roberts captured the essence perfectly: "It’s easy to see why Portugal is on so many travel bucket lists…".

US tourism in Portugal has surged in 2024, reaching unprecedented levels. Initiatives like the Good Morning America TV show could pique the interest of American citizens, offering them a view into Portugal's multitude of attractions and enhancing their understanding of what this captivating country has to offer.

The broadcast of the 18th of June kicked off in Portugal's southernmost region, the Algarve. The journey began at the Benagil Sea Cave, one of Portugal's most photographed wonders, accessible only by boat or kayak. This natural wonder offers a glimpse into the natural beauty that makes Portugal so attractive.

Following the sea cave adventure, the exploration continued along the Algarve's white sandy beaches with crystalline waters and dramatic cliffs. These stunning coastal landscapes have earned the Algarve a reputation for having some of the world's most beautiful beaches. 

After the Algarve, the journey continued to Lisbon and Porto, where Roberts interviewed US expats to understand why more than ten thousand Americans now call Portugal home, with numbers steadily rising. The top three reasons cited for the growing appeal of this coastal gem are:

• Lower housing costs
• Affordable Healthcare
• Low crime rate

On a recent Belion Partners interview with retired US expatriates, the mild winters, a stable government within Europe, and, of course, the tasty and affordable food were other factors that stood out.

Exploring the interviews with Roberts, the first interviewees expressed their desire for a quieter, slower, and more peaceful way of life, which they found in Portugal. They also highlighted an interesting fact: Portugal offers a unique lifestyle that feels both close and different, being just a six-hour flight away from the US. This proximity allows them to enjoy a serene lifestyle without feeling isolated from their loved ones.

The next interview was with an American family seeking a higher quality of life for their children, particularly in terms of education. Portugal stands out as an excellent choice. The Portuguese school system is renowned for its excellence, with both public and private schools maintaining high standards. It is important to mention that private schools in Portugal often rank higher than public ones. Additionally, Portugal’s private school fees are significantly lower than those in the US, making quality education more affordable.

The final interview was held with one retired individual and another who is almost retired. They also find Portugal appealing, particularly due to its affordable living, excellent healthcare, and safety, factors that are increasingly significant in that age range. These attributes make Portugal an ideal place to spend one’s golden years.

On the broadcast of the 20th of June, the focus was entirely on Sintra, a city renowned for its enchantments. The segment showcased what makes this city special, such as the Pena Palace, steeped in romantic history, and Quinta da Regaleira, a cultural uniqueness in this corner of the world. They also explored Cabo da Roca, the westernmost point of continental Europe. Sintra’s timeless charm makes it a place worth visiting every now and then. 

The broadcast concluded with a true taste of Portugal, featuring traditional pastries like pastéis de Belém, queijadas, and travesseiros, and a sip of Port wine. It's no surprise why Americans are increasingly choosing Portugal as their new home.

When considering a move to Portugal, there are numerous residency options available to explore. One of the most popular is the D7 visa, also known as the Portugal Passive Income Visa. This visa is tailored for passive income earners, including retirees, who wish to relocate to Portugal and embrace all the opportunities and lifestyle this country has to offer. 

If Portugal has captured your interest and you're eager to learn more about this remarkable country, contact us. We specialise in offering tailored services to ensure your transition to Portugal is as seamless as possible.