Portugal has long been a favoured destination for retirees, and recent rankings by International Living have placed it as the best country in Europe for retirement. However, many of those relocating to Portugal aren't simply looking to relax in the sun.

For Patricia Wells, moving to Portugal from the UK in her later years marked the beginning of a new chapter. She shares, "Upon retiring, we sought a challenge in our 'Third Age': a fresh experience, a new culture, and the chance to learn another language."

Patricia represents a growing number of retirees who want more than just a quiet life-they aim to explore, engage in cultural activities, socialise, and maintain their health and fitness.

Portugal offers an ideal setting for this lifestyle. The country ranks 7th in the 2024 Global Peace Index, compared to the UK, which ranks 34th. Additionally, Portugal has the 16th lowest crime index in Europe, while the UK ranks 39th. The safety, combined with Portugal's favourable climate, provides retirees with the opportunity to lead an active, outdoor lifestyle almost year-round.

Christina Hippisley, General Manager of the Portuguese Chamber of Commerce in the UK, notes a shift in what retirees are now seeking from Portugal. "Portugal still ticks all the same boxes in terms of affordability, stunning scenery, outstanding food and wine, and an easy relocation experience, but it now offers something more for those seeking active later living. We've seen new resorts spring up that cater specifically to those who want to retire, or semi-retire, and in so doing start a whole new adventure."

Life Plan Resorts - Lisbon is a leading example of this trend. Located just 30 minutes from the capital, the resort is set in a picturesque cork tree forest and features a well-established 18-hole golf course and 2.8 kilometres of river frontage. The resort provides a sanctuary for both independent and assisted living, with homes ranging from one to three bedrooms. Residents can enjoy over 100 activities, alongside top-notch amenities and quality healthcare, ensuring a seamless continuum of care for those who need it.

The concept of healthy, active ageing is central to Life Plan Resorts - Lisbon. Founded in 2022 by healthcare entrepreneur Jack Shevel, this innovative community offers a blend of sports and cultural activities, workstations for those who wish to continue working, and on-demand health services.

Patricia Wells and her partner Chris, a retired doctor, are planning to settle at Life Plan Resorts - Lisbon soon. Chris adds, "The huge variety of activities in the Life Plan Resort particularly appeals to me. We're also excited to live near Lisbon for cultural and social activities. It is important to have a strategy as we age, and if we become unable to maintain our present levels of self-care. We have seen many sad cases where people have had to leave their homes here to return to the UK for their families to care for them. This is often heartbreaking as they leave their familiar surroundings and friends, and it's very disruptive as they return to a cold and rainy life in the UK."

Life Plan Resorts - Lisbon addresses these concerns head-on, offering 24/7 in-house care services, assisted living options, and rehabilitation services. The resort's innovative life lease option ensures security and certainty for residents, while promoting an active lifestyle that is redefining later living.

For older people, relocating to Portugal is also easy from a visa perspective. The country provides a D7 visa scheme specifically aimed at older movers with a regular passive income. Under the terms of the visa, they are free to work in Portugal too, providing plenty of flexibility for those who want to rebalance leisure and work without giving up the latter entirely.

Life Plan Resorts - Lisbon will be featured, along with other specialist exhibitors, at the upcoming Moving to Portugal Show and Seminars in London on 17th October 2024. The event, held at London's Pestana Chelsea Bridge Hotel, will provide attendees with access to a wealth of expertise on relocating to Portugal. Tickets for the event are free and can be booked online at https://MTP-London.eventbrite.co.uk.

About the Portuguese Chamber of Commerce in the UK

The Chamber runs regular online and live Moving to Portugal events in the UK all year round to advise Brits who want to move to Portugal or buy a second home there on how they can sort out their tax, residency, property, insurance, and lifestyle issues. The Moving to Portugal Shows and Seminars are the premier and largest events held in the UK that are focused exclusively on moving to Portugal and/or investing there. Over 7,500 Brits have attended these Chamber events so far, and the demand is growing exponentially now that the Labour Party is in power.

Portugal is redefining retirement by offering a vibrant, active lifestyle in a peaceful and culturally rich environment. With easy relocation options and new developments like Life Plan Resorts - Lisbon, the country is an ideal destination for those seeking to make the most of their later years.