10 Unspoken Rules NOT to Break in Portugal 🇵🇹

Summary

In this video, Dave shares practical tips for newcomers to Portugal, offering advice on local customs and etiquette. He highlights ten things to avoid, such as not calling Portugal 'cheap,' respecting dining etiquette, greeting people properly, and never confusing Portugal with Spain. Dave also emphasizes the importance of formal language, avoiding street drinking, and respecting priority in queues. With these insights, newcomers can navigate Portugal smoothly, showing respect for local culture and blending in better with the rhythms of everyday life.

Takeaways

• 😀 Don't call Portugal 'cheap'. Prices might feel lower, but it can come across as insensitive to locals who face lower salaries and rising costs.
• 🍽️ In Portugal, meals are an event. Eating is a time to relax and enjoy, not something to do on the go like in the US.
• 🍴 Dining etiquette matters. Always use the knife in your right hand and fork in your left. No switching hands or using fingers to push food onto the fork.
• 👋 Greetings are important. Always greet people before diving into the transaction, whether it's in a shop, elevator, or café.
• 🇵🇹 Never confuse Portugal with Spain. Portugal has its own rich history and culture, and locals are proud of their independence.
• 💼 Formality matters. Address older people using formal titles like 'Senhor' or 'Dona' before switching to first names.
• 🗣️ Don't stress about perfect Portuguese. Effort and attempting the language are more appreciated than perfection.
• ⚖️ Priority is important. Elderly, pregnant women, people with disabilities, and parents with small children have legal priority in queues.
• 🏖️ Save beachwear for the beach. In cities like Lisbon and Porto, wearing bikinis, swim trunks, or going shirtless in public is seen as disrespectful.
• 🍻 Don't walk around with street beers. Drinking is social and seated. Public drinking should be paired with food or conversation, not roaming the streets.
• 🤬 Don't swear in public. Avoid using swear words around strangers, especially women, children, or elderly people, as it is considered disrespectful.

Q & A

Why is it considered inappropriate to call Portugal 'cheap'?

While prices in Portugal may seem lower compared to some other countries, particularly the U.S., the term 'cheap' can come off as disrespectful. It undermines the reality of local wages and cost of living. People in Portugal value their lifestyle, and referring to it as cheap can unintentionally diminish that respect.

What is the cultural significance of meals in Portugal?

In Portugal, meals are more than just about eating; they are seen as a time to relax, enjoy, and engage with others. Unlike countries where eating on the go is common, meals in Portugal are typically slow, intentional events meant for conversation and enjoyment.

What are some important dining etiquette rules in Portugal?

Dining etiquette in Portugal is formal. You should always cut with the knife in your right hand and hold the fork in your left. Avoid switching hands while eating or pushing food onto your fork with your fingers. It is also customary to take off your hat at the table as a sign of respect.

How important are greetings in Portugal?

Greetings are a key part of Portuguese culture. Whether entering a shop, elevator, or taxi, it’s expected to greet people before diving into any transaction. A simple 'bom dia' (good day) can go a long way and helps establish a warm, respectful tone.

Why is it a mistake to confuse Portugal with Spain?

Portugal has its own deep and proud history, distinct from Spain. The country was a leader in the Age of Exploration, and many Portuguese people take pride in their independent culture and identity. Referring to Portugal as part of Spain or vice versa is seen as disrespectful and inaccurate.

What should you know about formality in Portugal?

Formality is valued in Portugal, particularly with older generations. Using titles like 'senhor' (sir) or 'dona' (madam) before first names shows respect. You should avoid jumping straight to using first names unless invited to do so.

Is it necessary to speak perfect Portuguese?

No, it’s not necessary to speak perfect Portuguese. The effort matters more than the accuracy. Portuguese people appreciate any attempt at their language, even if it’s a little imperfect. A small mistake can be forgivable as long as you are trying.

What should you know about priority in queues in Portugal?

In Portugal, priority should be given to elderly people, pregnant women, those with disabilities, and adults with small children, whether the line is clearly marked or not. It’s a sign of respect, and staff will intervene if necessary to uphold this social norm.

Can you wear beachwear outside the beach in Portugal?

No, it’s considered disrespectful to wear beachwear like bikinis, swim trunks, or be shirtless in cities. While the country has a casual vibe, walking through cities like Lisbon and Porto in beach attire is frowned upon. Save it for the beach.

What’s the general attitude toward public drinking in Portugal?

Public drinking in Portugal is generally not seen as a casual activity. People enjoy drinking socially, at a table or bar, rather than walking around with a drink in hand. Roaming the streets with a beer can come off as excessive and inappropriate.

What should you keep in mind regarding swearing in public in Portugal?

Swearing in public is not accepted in Portugal, especially around women, children, or older people. Even using English swear words can be frowned upon. It’s best to be mindful of the language you use in public and maintain basic courtesy.