A Fresh Start
2023 has seen a rise in women arriving to Portugal seeking to start over. This is at least my impression, as landlord, as there have been about 7 new tenants in 2023, coming from all over the world. In talking with these strong, independent and courageous women, I've learned that they are all seeking a new adventure and have chosen Portugal as that place.
Some have arrived here having never been on a plane, their first plane trip is to Portugal, other's have come with just a carry-on suitcase or like the other day, one arrived with 4 giant suitcases! All with the intention to stay!
These women deserve a bow as they are a new breed of females looking to find their place in the world.
Job Market
Portugal is not necessarily the country to get rich as an employee. It is however, a gateway to the rest of Europe if that is what one seeks.
There is a growing job market, for all types of qualifications, especially in the service and health sector. Many international tech companies have moved their headquarters to Porto which provides new opportunities.
Quality of Life
We all know that Portugal, in spite of lower salaries, one can still have a decent quality of life, something maybe these women could not have in their respective countries. If you have a decent salary, you can afford to buy the things you want. The only thing one cannot afford upon arriving will be a home, but that goes for most people these days, along with the locals. Other than that, a person can easily obtain a 2nd hand car and go wherever they want to go. Portuguese women are known for being independent and having to make it on their own, as their past resonates this from the history of the first world explorers to the present day fishermen.
My Question to them is "Why did you decide to move abroad?"
It's the adventure of it, the new cultures, meeting new people, or the opportunities to study abroad.
How will they make new friends or meet new people?
This can happen through various means, like if they do yoga. Yoga is a very casual way of exercising of both the mind and the body, and "yoggies" are usually easy to get along people and the classes are in a more chill environment so everyone feels more at ease to chit chat. And you all share the love of yoga which is a starting point to any new friendship.
Other ways to meet new people can be through MeetUp or Facebook Groups, where you find people of similar interest.
Missing Family
Probably one of the hardest aspects about living abroad is missing your friends and family. Nowadays though these moments of missing loved ones are cured by technology, like Video and internet calls which are free, so there's no excuse not to call loved ones more often. Also, every day things that we may miss back home, are everywhere being sold these days!
Do you plan to move back or you're here for good?
That's a very tough question to answer and I don't think anyone can give a clear cut answer, unless of course they are a student for 1-2 semesters, knowing and wanting to return home once completed. It's a tougher question to answer for those that come with one suitcase or four suitcases! There are so many factors to evaluate. You find your dream job? Is Portugal the place for you? Did you adapt?
Build a Support Network
Creating a strong support network is crucial when adjusting to life in a new country. Seek opportunities to connect with fellow Erasmus students through orientation programs, student organizations, and social events.
Many universities have dedicated student associations for international students that organize activities and provide a platform to meet others from different backgrounds. Additionally, consider joining local clubs or communities to meet people from the host country.
Building meaningful relationships and connections will provide a sense of belonging and support during your time abroad. Reach out to your classmates, roommates, or neighbors and take the initiative to socialize. Remember, adjusting to a new culture, language, and environment can be an exhilarating yet challenging experience.
Embrace Cultural Differences
Don't forget, one of the key aspects of living in a new country is embracing and appreciating cultural differences. Each country has its unique customs, traditions, and social norms. Take the time to learn about the local culture, including greetings, gestures, and cultural taboos. Understanding and respecting the local culture will help you navigate social interactions and avoid unintentional misunderstandings.
Ways to Improve Co-Living in 2026
Building Better Co-Living Communities for the Future
As housing costs continue to rise and remote work becomes more common, co-living has emerged as an attractive solution for students, young professionals, digital nomads, and even retirees. In 2026, successful co-living spaces must go beyond simply providing shared accommodation. They should create environments that promote comfort, community, sustainability, and personal well-being. This article explores key ways to improve co-living in 2026.
1. Integrate Smart Technology
Technology can significantly enhance the co-living experience. Smart home systems can improve convenience, security, and energy efficiency.
Examples include:
- Keyless entry systems for residents.
- Smart thermostats that optimise energy consumption.
- Mobile apps for booking shared facilities.
- AI-powered maintenance reporting and tracking.
- Automated lighting and climate control in common areas.
These innovations help residents manage their daily lives more efficiently while reducing operational costs.
2. Foster Strong Community Engagement
One of the main advantages of co-living is the sense of community. However, community does not develop automatically.
Operators can encourage engagement by:
- Organising regular social events.
- Creating hobby and interest groups.
- Hosting networking opportunities for professionals.
- Celebrating cultural and seasonal events.
- Establishing community guidelines collaboratively.
Building meaningful relationships among residents can reduce loneliness and improve overall satisfaction.
3. Design Flexible Living Spaces
Modern residents have diverse lifestyles and needs. Flexible design can make co-living more appealing.
Key design features include:
- Modular furniture.
- Convertible work and leisure spaces.
- Private soundproof pods for focused work.
- Adaptable room layouts.
- Multi-purpose communal areas.
This flexibility allows residents to personalise their experience without requiring significant renovations.
4. Prioritise Mental Health and Well-Being
Mental health has become a major concern worldwide. Co-living spaces can play an important role in supporting resident well-being.
Suggestions include:
- Quiet relaxation zones.
- Meditation and wellness rooms.
- Access to mental health resources.
- Community support programmes.
- Natural lighting and biophilic design elements.
A healthy environment contributes to happier and more productive residents.
5. Embrace Sustainability
Environmental responsibility is expected rather than optional in 2026.
Sustainable improvements may include:
- Solar energy systems.
- Water-saving technologies.
- Recycling and composting programmes.
- Shared electric vehicles and bicycles.
- Sustainable building materials.
These initiatives reduce environmental impact while appealing to environmentally conscious residents.
6. Improve Conflict Resolution Systems
Sharing living spaces can sometimes lead to disagreements. Effective conflict management is essential.
Best practices include:
- Transparent house rules.
- Clear communication channels.
- Digital issue-reporting systems.
- Resident mediation programmes.
- Regular feedback surveys.
Addressing concerns early helps maintain a positive and respectful atmosphere.
7. Support Hybrid Work and Learning
With hybrid work and online education becoming increasingly common, co-living spaces should provide strong support for productivity.
Important features include:
- High-speed internet.
- Dedicated coworking spaces.
- Video conferencing rooms.
- Ergonomic furniture.
- Reliable backup power systems.
Residents benefit from having professional-quality facilities close to home.
8. Increase Inclusivity and Accessibility
Future co-living communities should be welcoming to people from diverse backgrounds and abilities.
Accessibility improvements include:
- Barrier-free entrances.
- Accessible bathrooms and kitchens.
- Multilingual communication tools.
- Diversity-focused community programmes.
- Affordable pricing options for various income groups.
Inclusive communities tend to be stronger, more innovative, and more resilient.
9. Enhance Privacy Without Sacrificing Community
A common challenge in co-living is balancing social interaction with personal space.
Solutions include:
- Better acoustic insulation.
- Private work areas.
- Personal storage solutions.
- Flexible room configurations.
- Resident-controlled privacy settings for community platforms.
When residents have adequate privacy, they are more likely to participate positively in communal activities.
10. Use Data Responsibly to Improve Services
Building operators can use data analytics to improve resident experiences while respecting privacy.
Examples include:
- Monitoring common-area usage.
- Tracking maintenance trends.
- Measuring resident satisfaction.
- Optimising energy consumption.
- Planning community events based on participation data.
Strong privacy policies and transparent data practices are essential to maintaining trust.
Conclusion
Co-living in 2026 has the potential to become more than a housing solution. By embracing smart technology, sustainability, flexible design, inclusivity, and community-focused initiatives, co-living spaces can offer a higher quality of life for residents. The most successful co-living communities will combine convenience, affordability, and meaningful human connection, creating living environments that meet the demands of an evolving world.
