Differences

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--- moving_away_from_usa [2025.01.03 10:10] – [Ponta Delgada (Azores)] Steve Isenberg
+++ moving_away_from_usa [2025.01.16 07:48] (current) – [Recommendation] Steve Isenberg
@@ Line 308: / Line 308: @@
 ==== Recommendation ====
 If you're staying primarily in Lisbon and taking occasional trips, renting a car when needed is likely the best option. However, if you plan to live in suburban areas or travel extensively within Portugal, owning a car could make sense.
+====== What to Bring or Not Bring When Moving to or Visiting Portugal from the USA ======
+Here’s a guide to what you should **bring** and **not bring** when moving to or visiting Portugal from the USA:
+==== What to Bring ====
+=== Essentials ===
+  * **Passport & Visa Documents:** Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your stay and carry any necessary visas.
+  * **International Driver’s Permit (IDP):** Required if you plan to drive in Portugal.
+  * **Travel Insurance:** Covers medical emergencies, trip cancellations, or other unforeseen events.
+  * **Power Adapters/Converters:** Portugal uses Type C and F plugs, with a 230V supply. Many US electronics (110V) may need a voltage converter.
+  * **Prescription Medications:** Bring enough supply, plus a copy of your prescriptions. Some US medications might not be available in Portugal.
+=== Clothing ===
+  * **Season-Appropriate Clothes:**
+    * Layers for Lisbon’s mild winters (sweaters, light jackets).
+    * Comfortable summer clothes (light fabrics for hot days).
+  * **Comfortable Shoes:** Essential for walking Lisbon’s hilly cobblestone streets.
+=== Electronics ===
+  * **Unlocked Phone:** You can use a local SIM card to avoid international roaming charges.
+  * **Laptop & Chargers:** For work or leisure.
+=== Cultural Items ===
+  * **Personal Items:** Favorite books, photos, or small keepsakes for a sense of home.
+  * **Gifts:** Small souvenirs from the USA, if you're visiting friends or staying with locals.
+=== Other ===
+  * **Reusable Shopping Bags:** Useful and eco-friendly for groceries.
+  * **Travel-Sized Toiletries:** Enough to get started until you buy locally.
+  * **Travel Credit/Debit Cards:** Choose cards with no foreign transaction fees.
+==== What Not to Bring ====
+=== Restricted or Prohibited Items ===
+  * **Weapons, Knives, or Pepper Spray:** Strictly regulated and may be confiscated.
+  * **Large Quantities of Cash:** Portugal has strict customs limits (declare amounts over €10,000).
+=== Unnecessary Items ===
+  * **US Electronics without Converters:** High-powered devices like hairdryers may not work with Portugal’s voltage.
+  * **Large Appliances:** These can be purchased locally and will be compatible with Portuguese outlets.
+  * **Bulky Winter Clothes:** Portugal’s winters are mild; heavy coats are rarely needed.
+  * **Too Many Shoes or Clothes:** Portugal has great shopping at reasonable prices, especially for shoes and apparel.
+=== Food Items ===
+  * **Fresh Produce or Meat:** Strict customs regulations may prohibit certain foods.
+  * **Over-the-Counter Medications in Bulk:** Portugal has strict customs rules for medications, and pharmacies are well-stocked with alternatives.
+==== Additional Tips ====
+  * **Banking:** Notify your bank about your travel to avoid issues with US-based credit or debit cards.
+  * **Sim Cards:** You can get affordable prepaid SIM cards from companies like Vodafone or MEO in Portugal.
+  * **Local Essentials:** Many items like toiletries, groceries, and household items are affordable and widely available in Portugal, so don’t overpack.
 ====== Severe Weather Risks in Recommended Countries ======
@@ Line 355: / Line 408: @@
   * **New Zealand**: Ideal if avoiding wildfires and hurricanes is your priority, but be prepared for earthquakes.
+======things to do ======
+===== Porto =====
+==== For Adults ====
+  * **Port Wine Cellars Tour:** Visit the famous port wine cellars in Vila Nova de Gaia and enjoy wine tasting sessions.
+  * **Ribeira District:** Stroll along the scenic Douro River, explore the historic center, and dine at riverside cafes.
+  * **Livraria Lello:** One of the most beautiful bookstores in the world, known for its stunning architecture.
+  * **Clérigos Tower:** Climb the tower for panoramic views of the city.
+  * **Serralves Museum and Gardens:** Explore contemporary art exhibitions and beautifully landscaped gardens.
+==== For Children ====
+  * **Sea Life Porto:** An interactive aquarium offering a close-up view of marine life.
+  * **World of Discoveries:** A fun, interactive museum that takes visitors on a journey through the Age of Discoveries.
+  * **Jardins do Palácio de Cristal:** Beautiful gardens with peacocks, open spaces, and a great view of the Douro River.
+  * **Parque da Cidade:** The largest urban park in Portugal, perfect for picnics, cycling, and outdoor play.
+  * **Tram Ride:** Enjoy a ride on Porto’s historic trams, which is a fun experience for kids.
+===== Lisbon =====
+==== For Adults ====
+  * **Belém Tower and Jerónimos Monastery:** Explore these iconic landmarks and learn about Portugal’s maritime history.
+  * **Alfama District:** Wander through Lisbon's oldest neighborhood with narrow streets and traditional Fado music.
+  * **Time Out Market:** Enjoy a variety of Portuguese cuisine from top chefs in a lively market setting.
+  * **Lisbon Oceanarium:** One of the largest aquariums in Europe, offering an immersive experience for all ages.
+  * **Tram 28 Ride:** Take a scenic ride on the iconic tram through historic neighborhoods.
+==== For Children ====
+  * **Lisbon Zoo:** A well-maintained zoo with a wide variety of animals and an exciting cable car ride.
+  * **KidZania:** An interactive city made for children where they can role-play various professions.
+  * **Pavilhão do Conhecimento (Science Museum):** A hands-on science museum with interactive exhibits for kids.
+  * **Monsanto Forest Park:** A large park with playgrounds, walking trails, and picnic areas.
+  * **Lisbon Cable Car (Telecabine Lisboa):** A fun cable car ride offering great views of the city and the Tagus River.