Latest news and stories about social norms in Portugal for expats and residents.
If an adult doesn't know how to interact with a child, then they shouldn't do it, appeals Inês Rogeiro in the new episode of 'Irritações'.
Portugal is often described as a resource-poor country, citing a small market, low scale, and structural limitations. However, this diagnosis is biased. Portugal is not poor, but it is exceptionally rich in 'complaint capital'—a cultural asset that shifts the focus from action to justification. This mindset fosters low ambition and hinders economic growth by prioritising excuses over innovation. Drawing comparisons with countries like Finland and South Korea, the article argues that Portugal must replace this culture of lament with a culture of initiative and execution to overcome its structural challenges.
There is a small social ritual that my friends and family already know well. We sit down at a restaurant, open the menu — and when it comes time to order drinks, I repeat the same phrase as always: “I would like tap water, please.” It is at this moment that I see the looks of amused resignation. Not because...
A recent study indicates that 7 out of 10 Portuguese people find it difficult to express “I love you”. Pride, fear, or shyness are the reasons cited for this difficulty in expression.
In Portugal, where nobody respects schedules, it seems a bit indifferent to me. People will arrive late regardless of whether it is summer time or winter time.
An exploration of the emotional well-being and benefits of men expressing their feelings through crying.
Is it a kind of prophecy? Or is it said with a certain tone of superiority? Many ask: are they preparing us for what is to come or devaluing what we have now?
On Father's Day, gestures and affections are celebrated, but so are expectations and doubts. Between the desire to be present and the demands of daily life, many fathers live divided between the ideal and the possible.
The time of having colours for boys and colours for girls is long gone, thanks to common sense and having eyes in one's head. A column by Miguel Esteves Cardoso.
The terms 'partner' (parceiro/parceira) are gaining ground among heterosexual couples, replacing traditional labels like 'husband' and 'wife'. The language is seen as more neutral and inclusive.
A personal admission that the author has unwittingly supported or reinforced patriarchal norms, describing themselves as a 'useful idiot' of the patriarchy.
Bilingual headline repeating the word 'family' in Portuguese and Italian; likely referring to family themes or a comparison between Portuguese and Italian family life.
