Learning how to adjust to local culture in Lisbon
So, you are finally in Lisbon! You have a flat, a job, and your life is moving forward quickly. Well done! Here are a few tips to help you adjust to the Portuguese lifestyle, and avoid any predictable faux pas. You're welcome!
Greetings in Lisbon
Depending on the nature and setting of the interaction, the way you greet people may differ. If we're talking about work or a more formal meeting, a firm handshake is considered the norm. However, if it's a more laidback setting, and even if you're meeting that person for the very first time, Portuguese people usually go with two kisses on the cheek (man-woman, woman-woman) or even a hug (usually between men only).
Take it slow
If you are originally from a big metropolis, don't expect the same fast-paced environment in Lisbon. Despite being a capital - and the biggest city in Portugal - Lisbon is considerably smaller when compared to other capitals around the world, which definitely reflects in the lifestyle. Plus, the local culture also encourages people to take things slowly. Why do it all today when you can simply take longer? Well, that's sort of the mindset around here, where nothing seems to spark an imminent sense of urgency – It's both a blessing and a curse! If you're in a hurry, a “com licença” (excuse me, in English) will do the job. However, as a general rule of thumb, don't expect anything to be taken care of quickly (or efficiently).
Don't mind the tourists in Lisbon
Tourism is one of the main attractions of Lisbon, which is already considered one of the leading destinations in Europe. Although the city is extremely popular all year round, expect larger crowds during the Summer, especially around the city center and in neighborhoods such as Baixa, Bairro Alto, Cais do Sodré, Graça and even Belém. They're enjoying this beautiful city the same way you do - so help them if anyone stops you for directions, and try not to photobomb any selfies. That, or simply avoid the busier locations altogether (easier said than done!).
Digital nomads in Lisbon
As you might have heard recently, Lisbon has become quite the hotspot among the digital nomad community, with remote workers from all across the globe (especially the US) choosing the Portuguese capital as its new base camp. Although life is definitely sweet for foreigners with a high purchasing power and tremendous tax breaks, the new visa regime has driven property prices even higher, as it is now virtually impossible for your average Portuguese worker to live anywhere near the downtown area. As a result, and although this is a direct result of some dubious governmental decisions, digital nomads have found themselves at the eye of the hurricane, with many locals openly expressing their despise for the “new visitors”. Nevertheless, this outrage is mostly expressed on social media and within certain political clusters, so most foreigners won't even notice any kind of hostility. Nevertheless, it exists.
Food in Lisbon
Although this trend is growing (we are a wine country, after all), most Portuguese people don't really have the habit of hitting wine bars when meeting up with friends. When the time comes to socialize, they rather gather around a dinner table, whether at a restaurant or at home. As such, food is an integral part of interacting with others in Portugal. You don't necessarily need to set up a banquet, but if you're having some Portuguese friends over, make sure to at least have something they can sink their teeth into.
As an equally viable alternative, most Portuguese people (especially younger generations) very much enjoy hanging out at cafés, ordering an expresso and sitting at a table for hours on end while catching up. Funny enough, it's quite the other way around for older folks, who usually take a more pragmatic approach to coffee. They walk in, have their cup at the counter, drop some coins and head out to work.
Do not speak Spanish in Lisbon!
In most tourist areas, waiting staff always speak English, so communication will barely be an issue. Even in more traditional and less central places, chances are that you'll find someone who will be able to help you out: so by all means, ask away, as long as you don't do it in Spanish! Portuguese people are very sensitive about this matter and will not like it if you assume their native language is Spanish. Definitely a no-no! That being said, never say “gracias”. Instead, say “obrigado” (for men) or “obrigada” (for women) when you want to thank someone or show appreciation.
