The last week has been manic. Partly self-inflicted, but also due to several things happening at the same time.
The early part of the week consisted of a flurry of activity, and progress, regarding discussions on property in Portugal. In earlier posts, I shared that I am in negotiations on a particular property. Until there is progress, there is little to share. Apart from some of my frustrations.
I learnt quickly that according to Portuguese time, tomorrow means next week, next week means next month and some time typically means whenever. Now my schedule is getting concertinaed as dates are being finalised, then tomorrow and next week aren’t really working for me.
As I shared last week, I’ve planned my second scouting trip, for March, which has put some pressure on progress. Lo and behold, scheduling this trip to view alternative properties has kickstarted activity. This week I’ve been advised the Geomapping, which I have been chasing for three months, should be done in the next week. Ok, next week might mean next month, but they are now working on my schedule.
Not going to lie. It’s been frustrating. And is this action too little, too late though?
I’ve already contacted a few estate agents who will schedule appointments for me throughout the week I am in Portugal. There are some interesting properties available at the moment and several which I’ve already arranged viewings on.
This has definitely increased my dilemma. Initially, it was whether I should rent or buy. Now I’ve added in whether I should continue to look for alternative properties. I feel that my hand has been forced though as I have diminishing confidence in current negotiations. If it’s meant to be, it will happen. If not, we’ll move on.
Spring walk
The latter part of the week has been more tiring than busy. Over the last six months, I’ve been struggling with a couple of bouts of gout, and because I didn’t rest, I damaged my first metatarsal. I’m also guilty of trying to get back walking and running too early and kept having setbacks.
Progressively over the last couple of months, I’ve been getting back walking. This week I’ve managed two 15km walks. A good distance to stretch the legs, and more importantly, my foot feels good.
Preparation for Portugal
As every week goes by, there are small things I’m ticking off the list as part of my preparation to move to Portugal.
Online nugget
Like many people, I undertake lots of research online. I have been compiling a list of websites I regularly visit and some I have identified for specific information. I will add a directory of these websites in due course.
However, occasionally you find an online nugget. One of these is Deco Pro Teste. It’s probably not the first website people looking to move to Portugal are going to add to their bookmarks. But I think it’s great. I can hear the words of a few readers suggesting that I need to get a life – you know who you are!
Deco Pro Teste focuses on consumer protection and advice through a family of websites providing a vast amount of information. Just as a snapshot, there is Mais Sustenabilidade which is a portal to help people become live more sustainably, and Mais Mobilidade, supporting all forms of transportation.
For people looking for advice and support on financial matters, there are Pro Teste Crédito (personal and home finance) and Pro Teste Investe (personal investment).
Finally, there is also FitMap. This is a relatively new website providing lots of information on fitness, wellness, health and outdoor activities. It’s all free of charge and has an interactive map to locate walks and activities.
Deco Pro Teste provides lots of information through the free subscription although to get full access, there is a paid-for subscription. I understand with the free subscription, you can get a free discount card called Deco+ which appears to offer lots of discounts.
Preparing to drive in Portugal
Over the last week, I’ve delved into the world of motor insurance. Specifically, the challenge of insuring a UK registered vehicle in Portugal before it has been matriculated. Thanks to Luise from Solo 50plus Expat Portugal for a great vlog sharing her experience and giving some useful tips.
This week I’ve also purchased all the items I need in the car to drive across Europe and into Portugal. Simple things like the warning triangle, fluorescent vests, spare lamps, and the UK badge. Another small thing ticked off the list.
Muito obrigado
As always, I’d like to thank everyone who reads my blog. I am humbled by your interest in my little world. I write for myself and I write in the way I read. I’ve always approached this as my personal blog. I enjoy writing and helps me think things through. Bordering on therapy I guess.
Muito obrigado.
Marc