Linda & Fatima(52)

Fatima and I have been together for 18 years. She is of Moroccan descent, grew up in Haarlem. We both wanted something different — a place with sun, sea and a relaxed atmosphere. Portugal was progressive on LGBTQ+ rights, and that gave us confidence.

Tavira is a jewel in the eastern Algarve. Less touristy than Lagos or Albufeira, with beautiful Moorish architecture, a quiet river and the island beach Ilha de Tavira. We fell for its charm on our first visit.

The buying process was an adventure. We found a dilapidated townhouse for €120,000, with a CPCV (preliminary purchase contract) signed at the notary. The renovation cost another €80,000, but we now have a beautiful house with patio in the old center.

As a married couple we had no problems with recognition. Portugal has recognized same-sex marriage since 2010. At the Camara Municipal, the SEF office and the bank — everywhere we were treated as a married couple without any hesitation.

Fatima now runs a small catering business from home, specializing in Moroccan-Portuguese fusion cuisine. She is registered as empresario em nome individual at the Financas. The local Saturday market is her best sales channel — Portuguese people love her pasteis with harissa.

Our advice to other LGBTQ+ couples: Portugal is safe and tolerant, especially in cities and tourist areas. Tavira is small but cosmopolitan. We feel more at home here than we ever did in the Netherlands.