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My Dolce Casa
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Posts by: Elsa Lacock

Elsa Lacock

Elsa is a writer at My Dolce Casa, an expat from South Africa living in Portugal. She works remotely from the beautiful Castelo Branco District. When she's not writing, she enjoys exploring the magical Portuguese countryside with her family.

Portugal Flag
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Countries Guides Portugal Working

The Most Popular Jobs for English-Speaking Expats in Portugal

by Elsa Lacock on December 14, 2024
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Throughout market and economic downturns, Portugal has proven to be resilient and continued to move forward and build a strong economy. More and more companies here are welcoming employees from all parts of the world in this new era of…

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Winter in Spain
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Countries Lifestyle Spain

Winter in Spain: The Weather, Fun Things to Do and Best Places to Go

by Elsa Lacock on December 1, 2024
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Every year, thousands of Europeans and visitors from all over the world flock to Spain during the winter months. This is because winters in Spain offer some of the best weather from November to March in the whole of Europe. …

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Leiria Portugal
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Countries Guides Lifestyle Living Portugal

Tipping in Portugal: When, Whom, and How Much Do You Tip in Portugal?

by Elsa Lacock on March 17, 2024
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Exploring new places means learning about local customs. But have you ever thought about tipping practices? While tipping in the United States and Britain may be common, it’s not so typical in other countries. Portugal has its own unique approach…

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Modern buildings in Lisbon Portugal
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Countries Guides Portugal Working

Working in Portugal: How to Make a Living in Portugal as an Expat

by Elsa Lacock on February 22, 2024
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Finding employment in Portugal as an expat is a common aspiration for many seeking a change of scenery and lifestyle. Whether motivated by career opportunities, retirement plans, or simply a desire for a new adventure, working in Portugal can offer…

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Albufeira Portugal
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Countries Guides Portugal Retiring

Best Places to Retire in Portugal

by Elsa Lacock on December 20, 2023
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Imagine retiring in Portugal, a country that embraces you with its warm weather and beautiful landscapes. It has become a favored destination for American and British retirees seeking a relaxing lifestyle for their golden years. So, where are the best…

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Castelo Branco
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Countries Guides Moving Portugal Real Estate

5 Great towns to buy cheap property in Portugal

by Elsa Lacock on November 14, 2023
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In recent years, Portugal has become a hotspot for expats in search of a new home and a fresh start. Its appeal is evident in the growing number of individuals from around the world, drawn to the country’s charm, affordability,…

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Tavira Portugal
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Countries Guides Living Portugal Retiring

Expat’s guide to Tavira: Experience authentic Portugal in the Algarve

by Elsa Lacock on November 13, 2023
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With captivating architecture and beautiful Algarve Coast landscapes, Tavira is a modern Portuguese coastal town rooted in tradition. Whether you’re an expat looking to make this unique town your new home or a curious traveler seeking an authentic Portuguese experience,…

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Cascais Portugal
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Countries Guides Living Portugal

From affluent to rustic, here are the 6 best beach and coastal towns in Portugal

by Elsa Lacock on October 13, 2023
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The coastal and beach towns of Portugal are unlike any other place in the entire Europe, full of tradition, character and beauty that are uniquely Portuguese. Visiting the western and southern coast of Portugal is guaranteed to create memories to…

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Lisbon Portugal
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Countries Guides Lifestyle Living Portugal

Lisbon weather by month: What it feels like to live in Lisbon Portugal year-round

by Elsa Lacock on September 30, 2023
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If you’re envisioning a getaway or a longer stay in Lisbon, Portugal, to enjoy its timeless beauty and sunny climate, it is important to know when to go and what to expect weather-wise. Lisbon typically has sultry dry summers with…

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Porto Portugal
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Countries Guides Moving Portugal

The best cheap places to live in Portugal

by Elsa Lacock on September 19, 2023
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Are you dreaming about starting a new chapter of your life in the beautiful Portugal? Well, you’re not alone. Portugal has been gaining popularity as an expat haven, and for good reason. The beauty and affordability of Portuguese cities make…

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Braga Portugal
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Countries Guides Living Portugal

How to open a bank account in Portugal as a foreigner

by Elsa Lacock on August 25, 2023
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Are you ready to start your life abroad in Portugal? In order to fully settle into this beautiful country, there’s one task you need to check off your list: opening a bank account. For many people wanting to move to…

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Porto Portugal
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Countries Guides Living Moving Portugal

Best places to live in Portugal for English-speakers

by Elsa Lacock on August 11, 2023
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Portugal has become one of Europe’s top countries to move to for English speakers seeking a new place to call home. With its warm climate, hospitality towards foreigners and low cost of living, Portugal offers many attractive places to live…

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Cascais Beach Portugal
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Countries Guides Lifestyle Living Portugal

Best places to live in Portugal for families

by Elsa Lacock on August 8, 2023
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Portugal, with its sun-kissed beaches, colorful culture, and welcoming locals, is a very popular country to move abroad for expat families. Whether you’re drawn by the relaxed Mediterranean lifestyle, the myriad of beautiful Portuguese cities, towns and villages, or its…

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Alfama neighborhood Lisbon Portugal
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Countries Guides Living Portugal Real Estate

The best Lisbon neighborhoods to live in

by Elsa Lacock on July 27, 2023
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Lisbon, the charming capital of Portugal, has been capturing hearts worldwide. Among Lisbon’s greatest assets are its diverse neighborhoods, from centrally-located historic districts adorned with splendid architecture to Jacaranda-tree-lined streets hosting fruit markets and cozy cafes.  This coastal city is…

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Historic buildings in Lisbon Portugal
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Countries Guides Living Portugal Real Estate

Your complete guide to renting an apartment in Lisbon

by Elsa Lacock on July 11, 2023
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Lisbon is the lively and cosmopolitan capital city of Portugal. With its historic beauty, vibrant culture, and coastal charm, Lisbon attracts expats from all over the world who are planning to start a new chapter of their lives in Portugal.…

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Castelo Branco
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Countries Guides Lifestyle Living Living Abroad Portugal

Castelo Branco: An authentic Portuguese experience in the heart of the country

by Elsa Lacock on June 27, 2023
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Located in central Portugal, Castelo Branco is renowned for its rich history, scenic landscapes, and unique cultural heritage. With its origins dating back to the medieval period, the city proudly showcases its architectural beauty, which stands as a testament to…

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Peniche Portugal
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Countries Guides Lifestyle Living Living Abroad Portugal

Peniche Portugal: Affordable coastal living on the Silver Coast

by Elsa Lacock on June 16, 2023
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Situated on Portugal’s stunning Silver Coast, Peniche is a true paradise for beach lovers and adventure seekers alike. Not only does this charming destination have some of the most breathtaking beaches in Europe, but it also holds the title of…

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Evora Portugal
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Countries Guides Living Portugal

Évora, Portugal: A sunny town hidden in the wine country of Alentejo

by Elsa Lacock on May 19, 2023
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Évora Portugal is a historic city located in the center of the Alentejo region, famous for its beautiful countryside, delicious cuisine, incredible wine and relaxed way of life. With its rich cultural heritage, Évora has been designated a UNESCO World…

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Braga Portugal
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Countries Guides Lifestyle Living Portugal

Braga, Portugal: A relaxed religious center in the green hills of Minho

by Elsa Lacock on May 3, 2023
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Nestled in the northwest part of Portugal is the fascinating city of Braga, the religious center of Portugal. With its perfect mix of history, culture and natural beauty, Braga is a popular location for those who are considering a move…

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Coimbra Portugal
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Countries Guides Lifestyle Living Portugal

Coimbra, Portugal: The historic student city in the heart of Portugal

by Elsa Lacock on April 19, 2023
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Nestled in the heart of the country, Coimbra is a welcoming city that offers an exceptional quality of life for those seeking to relocate to Portugal. Whether you are looking to retire, study or just start a new chapter in…

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