The rental market in France is very buoyant at present. If you’re considering buying a second home you can let out when you’re not in residence, or perhaps you’re moving permanently and you’re looking for a property that comes with a gîte, now is a great time to do so.
The archipelago of Madeira has long been one of the most popular places in Portugal with British and other international buyers, as well as those from the Portuguese mainland itself. This is mainly due to the all year around good weather, and the islands are particularly popular with those taking retirement – in part thanks to the wide range or leisure facilities and laidback lifestyle here. The islands are also popular with those who wish to start their own business, particularly in the tourist industry – given its mass appeal.
Australia’s location in the Southern Hemisphere, just a short distance to the equator compared to the UK, means the seasons in Australia are very different compared to what we are used to at home.
Being so isolated from the rest of the world comes with its perks – one being that New Zealand wasn’t as badly struck by the global financial crisis as other nations. Over the course of last year, employment in New Zealand snuck up by 1.2%.
Life in Portugal is very much one lived outdoors. Most people who move here permanently or buy a holiday home look forward to long warm summers, year-round sun, low levels of precipitation and the opportunity this brings to spend far more time outside than back home. This often includes continuing their passion for that Great British pastime, pottering in the gardening.
British expats in Portugal who are completely fluent in Portuguese are rather thin on the ground. Portuguese is a tricky language, and friendly locals who are willing to speak English (especially in the Algarve) can reduce the need and motivation to learn the lingo.
