Getting the best exchange rate is a challenge. Predicting the future currency exchange market is almost impossible. The exchange rate goes up. And it goes down. When changing pounds to euros, I tend to change relatively small amounts at a time, although as the rate increases, then so does the amount I exchange. While I…
Category: Planning
Buying a left-hand drive car in the UK
It’s all in preparation. And timing is important. If you miss a deadline, then it can be costly. With that in mind, and my adventure to Portugal starting properly in about nine months, I’ve bought a left-hand drive car. A Nissan X-Trail. Yes. Some people will say it’s a premature purchase and ask why I…
My amazing, yet unorthodox approach, to property searching in Portugal
The main purpose of my scouting visit to Portugal was to get a much better understanding of the property market and, what I could get for my money. I feel my approach is different to many other house hunters. As mentioned in my previous blog about the location, the scouting trip tried to focus on…
Counting down the hours to Portugal
It’s taken a year in the planning, but the Portugal scouting trip commences now. Right here. Right now. A year ago, I would already have a trip to Portugal stamped in my passport. And almost exactly a year ago, I would be planning a climb up Mount Pico in the Azores. Neither happened. Now, on…
Portugal – Top of the world
With planning full speed ahead for my scouting trip in September, I continue to adjust to the pace of Portugal. Full speed is actually a steady first gear. It’s no problem. I feel I’m on top of things. I’ve reached out to the contacts I want to meet or need an appointment with, although as…
Bravely following the compass to Portugal
Scouting trip to Portugal In one calendar month, I will be on my way to Portugal. Fingers-crossed. I’ve been diligent in my planning to ensure I’ve as much flexibility to either cancel or postpone the flights, hotels and car hire. Although I’ve a couple of dates over the next fortnight which will make it…