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Take a stroll along the river bank, hand-in-hand with history
Enjoy the city's delightful weather. Nip down to Belém and explore the monuments to the Discoveries by the sparkling Tagus. But there are other unique places such as Terreiro do Paço, one of Europe's largest squares, and Cais do Sodré. Or even Portas do Sol in Alfama, where the view will take your breath away!
Enjoy a traditional Lisbon evening
After a day walking the picturesque cobbled streets and being stunned by the beauty of S. Jorge Castle, it's time to relax and let your hair down. Chiado and Bairro Alto are the places to be for avant-garde culture and a night out on the town. There's a bit of everything: traditional fado houses, bars, clubs and live music.
Culture and Business
Before leaving
Make sure you have your citizen’s card or passport and boarding pass with you. Depending on your country of origin, arrange your visa or other required documentation well in advance.
Climate
The climate is of the maritime temperate type with hot summers and rainy winters, with Atlantic, continental and Mediterranean influences. The climate also varies according to the altitude and proximity to the ocean.
Time zone
Mainland Portugal and Madeira = GMT
Azores = GMT - 1
Geography and Politics
Portugal is part of the Iberian Peninsula, in southwest Europe. It includes two archipelagos: the islands of Madeira and the islands of the Azores. Portugal is a semi-presidential representative democratic republic, where the Prime Minister is the head of government. It is a member of the European Union.
Tips and Payment
Portugal is part of the Eurozone, so the currency used will be the Euro (EUR). Many businesses accept credit cards, but it is always useful to have cash with you. There are many ATMs where you can withdraw cash. It is customary to tip around 10% if you are satisfied with the service provided.
Language and expressions to memorize
The official language is Portuguese. Some useful phrases in Portuguese are: “olá” = hi, “por favor” = please; “muito obrigado/a” = thank you very much; “desculpe” = sorry.
What to do
Do not be surprised if you are invited to lunch to do business - it is customary that these lunches last a long time. Family and the social side of life are very important and it is essential to establish good relationships when you are doing business.
What not to do
Do not try to rush negotiations. The Portuguese take their time and like to be meticulous, so try to accompany the pace. Do not be late for meetings - although the culture is not as punctual as other European countries, you are expected to arrive on time when you are doing business.
What to wear
Men should wear suits and ties and women the formal equivalent, with elegance. Appearance is important, be conservative and professional, adjusting your choices to the industry you work in and the type of meeting.
First contact
When meeting someone in a business context, greet him or her with a handshake. After certain meetings and in social situations it is considered normal to give two kisses on the face. The handshake or a hug continues to be the appropriate greeting between men. If you are invited to someone's house, bring a box of chocolates or good bottle of Portuguese wine to show your appreciation.