Life Abroad in Portugal with Bob Tapper 🇵🇹
Hosted by American expat Bob Tapper, Life Abroad in Portugal is your go-to resource for navigating life in one of Europe’s most welcoming countries. Each episode dives into the real questions people ask when considering the move:
— How do immigration laws and residency options work?
— What’s the process of starting a business in Portugal?
— How do you handle insurance, banking, and taxes as a foreigner?
— What are the cultural traditions, local events, and hidden gems worth exploring?
Whether you're actively planning your move or just curious about the expat experience, this podcast offers practical advice, up-to-date information, and the occasional fun story from life on the ground in Porto.
Life Abroad in Portugal with Bob Tapper 🇵🇹
S7:Ep4 - Making Friends in Portugal: Why It’s Hard (And What Actually Works)
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Making friends in Portugal isn’t always easy — and for many people moving abroad, it can feel surprisingly lonely.
In this episode of Life Abroad in Portugal, I share my experience building a real group of friends after relocating, and what actually worked for me. From stepping outside my comfort zone to starting my own Meetup groups, this is a practical, honest look at how friendships really form in a new country.
I talk about why this can be challenging, especially as an adult, and why waiting for friendships to happen rarely works. Instead, creating opportunities — whether by joining groups or starting your own — can completely change the experience.
What helped me most:
• Starting a filmmaking Meetup around something I genuinely love
• Creating a simple monthly expat Meetup in my neighborhood
• Joining an existing business group
• Showing up consistently over time
If you’re living in Portugal or planning your move and wondering how to build a social life here, this episode offers real, actionable insight.
You’re not alone — and with a little intention, it gets better.
🎧 Life Abroad in Portugal is available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts.