Your videos are great and have me seriously considering a move to Madeira. Thank you and congratulations for having the courage to leave the U.S. and live your dreams.
@@carlferreira6905 Couldn't agree more, Carl. First step will be to spend at least a month there, and probably three. I'm leaning more toward a part-time nomad lifestyle and spending 3 - 6 months in different locations around the world while keeping my "home base" in Northern California.
Ola Greg, Thanks for the Super Thanks! We are grateful for your support. Please let us know what we can do to be of service as you go through your journey. Leslie and Alan
As a portuguese i have to say that we are really bleassed to have a health system like this comparing with other countrys. I often used our health system and normally the coast is zero euros.thanks and enjoy your retirement here in my country.may god blease your life.
Boa tarde marco Martin's Thanks for supporting our channel. You are blessed in your country to know you will not be forced into bankruptcy due to an illness. We truly appreciate the ability to purchase private insurance for a reasonable price and to know that we will be able to get good quality care if needed. Have a wonderful day Leslie and Alan
I know! I'm a Portuguese immigrant living in Canada and keep in touch with my country that I frequently visit and where I have family and friends. I'm contemplating to return to enjoy my retired years there as I still love my country and the lifestyle in Canada has deteriorated markedly over the years and it's becoming more and more like the States!
Bom dia! New and Improved! Join our Patreon community! Click the link www.patreon.com/itllbefun As always we would like to thank you for watching and for being our subscribers. Each and every one of you mean the world to us! And if you are not already, we invite you to subscribe and become part of our TH-cam community. We would love for you to join us on our journey! Enjoy your journey, Alan and Leslie
Tell your American friends and family that paying more on taxes is not so bad, if you get proper and affordable health care in return… like the European counties have ;)
As a European, when I see someone from the USA posting their experience of Health care in a European country I never know if I should laugh or cry. Always leaves me feeling thankful for sure.
Olá Gordon, Thanks for watching and supporting our channel. Our experience with the health care here has been very good, and we are very pleased with how we are treated 😀 Obrigado Alan and Leslie
Hi, so nice to hear you describe our Health System in such wonderful (but true) tones. My daughter has just had a baby in a public hospital (she has a very good private medical insurance but preferred a public hospital). I was present at the birth - it was complicated and long but the whole treatment and assistance were sterling. They asked for her Birth Plan and followed it meticulously. They had to deviate on 2 accounts but they informed duly and apologised profusely for having to deviate from her plan. All the nurses treated us as royalty - called her Princess, Darling, her own name (which I found wonderfully soothing), etc. The nursing staff were always by her side with the difficult breast feeding process and were immediately by her side when she had a hormonal meltdown, offering a wonderful support. Yes, it's not all roses and there is much to still be done in Health, Education, Bureaucracy, Judicial, but, I wouldn't trade living here for ANY other country in the world.
Olá Manuela, Thanks for supporting and watching our channel. And thanks for sharing your story . We love it here, and will continue to make positive videos. Obrigado Alan and Leslie
Also in an emergency you can go to a public hospital and be treated just as well. Maybe it will be a bit longer a wait, but care will be very good, and english will also be available. And it will be comoletelly FREE
Olá Lígia, Thanks for the continued support of our channel. That is correct. As we have insurance, we go to the private hospital. I'm sure the public system is fine. Obrigado, Alan, Leslie and Wolf
Here in Portugal, on the mainland, the laboratory where I take my exams sends me by email. And I send them to the clinic, to the hospital, to the doctor I want. The concept is this: the exams are mine. I do with them what I want.
Hello, can you tell us what made you decide to move to Madeira if you don't mind. And how long did you plan the move? Me and the wife are maybe 4 years out but would like to gather as much info so I can plan better. Can you compare healthcare in Canada vs Portugal. thank you.
Ola Seinfeld costanza, Thanks for watching and supporting our channel. We worked through our plans for over 3 years. And after lots of research a d planning we found Madeira Portugal to be the best choice for us. Weather. Culture, safety, Healthcare, friendliness, cost of living, visa process, etc. We made Our channel in order to share our adventures, process, wins and loses as we go. We hope you will subscribe a d stay with us. Have a wonderful day Leslie and Alan
@@ItllBeFun thank you for the reply. And oh yes I'm subscribed. Love the way you guys do your videos and explain life and costs of Healthcare. They are very specific. Other channels will just say they are cheaper than this or that and don't give any specifics. 🥂
We have loved Madeira for over twenty years and have visited there at least once or twice each year (Covid permitting). We love the island, the climate and the politeness of the people. It’s so much much much more than a refuge where you go to live to get your ailments fixed because it’s cheaper there than in the USA.
Olá Susan, Thanks for supporting and watching our channel. It's a complete lifestyle change from where we came from. Enjoy your journey Obrigado Alan and Leslie
Hi Alan and Leslie. I love this one. It's great to get real dollar amounts. I love that you get your labs because they are yours. What a concept. Thanks for all the effort you put into creating these helpful videos.
Bom dia DesertDweller Glad you are here. The numbers really do help . We know that we were looking for education as well as any numbers we could find during our planning. Thanks again for your support. Enjoy your journey Leslie and Alan
Here in Portugal, on the mainland, the laboratory where I take my exams sends me by email. And I send them to the clinic, to the hospital, to the doctor I want. The concept is this: the exams are mine. I do with them what I want. And if I want, I can get the opinions I want, from different hospitals or doctors with the same tests.
I really appreciate your SPECIFICITY here! So often, TH-camrs talk in generalities and I can understand why. However, you gave the sort of detailed information that really helps your viewers get a handle on what they might expect. So thank you for going above and beyond. Have high hopes that if the economy escapes a complete meltdown, that a Madeira Fact-finding trip will happen in the first quarter of 2023. Hoping your friend/neighbor is on the mend. Thanks for what you do -- as always.
Ola admin desk, We hope you still get to come. Our friend is healing nicely. Thank you for asking. Fingers crossed that the economy doesn't crash. It will make it harder on everyone. Enjoy your journey Leslie and Alan
Ola Bernadette, Nice to hear from you again! Thanks for your continued support. The healthcare system here is fabulous. Enjoy your journey Leslie and Alan
Thank you so much for this. I will be coming to Madeira soon and your excellent, informative video has answered a lot of my questions. Keep at it! I liked the video a lot.
Boa tarde Carlos de la Garza, We feel the same way about our supporters. Thank you very much for making our efforts worth while. Have a wonderful day Leslie and Alan
That's the advantage of having a public system which drives prices down. The private system cannot drive up the price because people would go to the public system.
Bom dia Wanda, We are glad you are here. Welcome! Portugal is wonderful and as you know we truly love Madeira island. However Carl has a point. We encourage you to do a scouting trip and visit as many areas as you can. This way you will be sure to choose your perfect next adventure. We hope to see you in Madeira in the future. Enjoy your journey Leslie and Alan
We hope to meet you thanks for watching. If you are going to rent or buy a property we would appreciate it if you would give our relocation team a chance. You can find all of support team at www.itllbefunretirement.com and you can email the real estate group with this email claudia.ribeiro@imocabrera.com
I’m happy that you’re channel found me😊 very informative. It’s mind blogging how much we are ripped off here in America, plus trust me most of us here aren’t treated that nice at hospitals, especially now . You both are blessed to experience a more relaxed peaceful life in Portugal . Thanks TH-cam for listening to the conversation I was having with my husband over the weekend about retiring to Portugal, now I have info and you got a new subscriber 😂
Bom dia Regi Franco, We are glad you found us. Even if TH-cam was hanging out in your kitchen, listening.😊 We hope you continue to follow our journey. Don't forget to give us ideas of things you would like to learn about. Enjoy your journey Leslie and Alan
There is nothing to talk about. you know the origin of your family (Franco). most likely you are a descendant of Madeiran emigrants who went to the USA. you must come home.
I am totally gobsmacked at your sensational effort. What an inspiration you are. I have travelled extensively and have tried to document some of it here on TH-cam but it’s nothing compared to this. Good on you both and keep up the great videos and your experiences.
@@ItllBeFun thanks a lot, I am just in awe of you both. Hope I get some people to my channel soon but not holding my breath as I cannot match your great effort.
Olá Winter Biker, Thanks for supporting and watching our channel. If they have an Ernest Hemingway look alike contest here I'll enter! Ha!!Ha!! Obrigado Alan and Leslie
Thank you for your very informative video. An avid fan here from Canada. We are seniors and retired and we find your vlog very helpful. Thank you and God bless.
Bom dia Margarita Trinidad, We are so glad you have been following us and commenting along the way. Your comments and support really help our channel to grow. Thank you very much. Have a wonderful day Leslie and Alan
Had to go to private hospital in Dublin with health insurance and it cost with tests & Doctors just under E500 in A& E, then the prescription on top of that. That is wonderful health care. As I visited the Public A & E after 12hrs no meds no results just go home. I have Asthma/ COPD and was very unwell.
Sorry I meant, I posted a link of your TH-cam channel to one of the Madeira Facebook groups I recently joined. It's mostly full of people asking about this and that. Group is called "Moving to Portugal". There was an older couple there asking about Healthcare costs in Portugal and I thought your channel would answer a lot of their questions.
Would be nice if you also included the date of the video so we know if this is relatively current info or may be a bit dated. Also, nice video. Thanks.
Olá Ben, Thanks for watching and supporting our channel. The published date of all our videos can be found in the video description. Beside the video title, touch the down arrow to open the description. Obrigado Alan and Leslie
Your videos are so well done. I love all the shots at the ocean! The beaches look gorgeous! Thanks for posting another very informative vlog. I look forward to more! Stay safe! ✌🏻🙂✌🏻
Bom dia Ocean Lover, We are glad you are enjoying the views! We are amazed every single day by the views. To our surprise the mountain views are truly as wonderful as the ocean. Thanks for watching and supporting our channel. Have a wonderful day Leslie and Alan
Olá Alan and Leslie. This a great follow up video to your previous one on healthcare in Portugal. Judging by the number of views already, it's really generating a lot of interest. Congratulations on the growing success of your channel. You'll reach 5K subscribers in no time with your great content. Looks like your a dab hand at mixing your own Poncha! Cheers!
Olá John, Thanks for the continued support for our channel. Yep, making Poncha is almost as fun as drinking them! Thanks for the kind words. More to come. Obrigado Alan and Leslie
Great video. My wife and I were on Madeira last summer and it really is a great island. For us though, unfortunately, we couldn’t get used to the steepness of the roads. We’ll be looking at the Azores next and then possibly continental Portugal. I am in middle of getting my Portuguese citizenhip as all my grandparents were born in Portugal so once that happens (in early 2023) we’ll be looking at making a move.
Bom dia Skip DaCosta, Thanks for watching and supporting our channel. The Azores was on the top of our list as well. Have fun making your final choice. We are jealous and happy that you will qualify for Português citizenship. We only have 9% Português blood between us. 😊 Enjoy your journey Leslie and Alan
Good evening Thank you so much for the great videos, I look forward each week and really enjoy the content and your laid back humor. Thanks for taking so many hours editing. It looks like paying for Private insurance and paying out of pocket for emergencies at a private hospital visit is no comparison to healthcare in the USA Cheers! Andrew
Bom dia Andy w, Thanks for being here each week. We appreciate your support. We are getting a little better at filming, editing, writing and recording. Fingers crossed we get a lot better and faster soon!!!!😊 Enjoy your journey Leslie and Alan
Very encouraging. My wife and I are in our fifties and healthcare is one of our top considerations as we plan our move to Portugal for next November. Did you bring your dog from the States? We have a 65 lb. golden doodle, eight years old, who we need to factor into the equation. Thanks again - your vids are inspirational.
Olá Rob, Thanks for watching and supporting our channel 😀 We brought a dog and a cat from USA. Here's a link to our pet video th-cam.com/video/V6wKTMKDmLM/w-d-xo.html Hope it helps Alan
Thanks for the beautiful video 👍🇵🇹 enjoy the Portuguese way of life that is respect each other helping one person at time in the end we all become a big family !!!! When you have a chance, Please visit the Azores 🇵🇹🇵🇹🇵🇹
Olá paula, Thanks for watching and supporting our channel. We very much enjoy the Portuguese way of life. And we plan to visit the Azores, too. Obrigado Alan and Leslie
Thank you for another very helpful video it really is so nice that you share your experiences with us as it gives us more and more confidence to make our move to Madeira 🌸
Boa noite Alan Sue, Thanks for your continued support. We appreciate it. Glad you are enjoying the videos and subjects. Have a wonderful day Leslie and Alan
Thank you for the info on what is probably the main worry for us older Americans when considering an overseas move. Jen and I just got back from eight days in Sao Miguel, Azores. By the third day Jen - always the skeptic - declared she was ready to move in :)
Another great video Alan! I too have MGEN and for the sake of your viewers who read comments, I pay €122mo for my coverage which includes Dental. I've been fortunate not to have to visit the doctor but wanted to share.
Yeah, you don’t wanna mess around with dog bites. They could lead to sepsis. Strong work. But the neighbor should definitely offer to pay for her expenses. Also steer clear of that dog, and get pepper spray.
Ola Heron, Nice to hear from you again. Thanks for your continued support. Agreed. Her hand is healing nicely. And she is not going near the dog again. Enjoy your journey Leslie and Alan
Thanks for the heads up & info we are looking into moving to mainland Portugal healthcare is a major issue for me with very little first hand info out there
Bom dia David I, Thanks for watching and supporting our channel. When we were exploring we were looking for more first hand experiences as well. Hence our TH-cam channel. Enjoy your journey Leslie and Alan
Bom dia Hermes, We are glad you are here. Let us know what other topics you are ready to learn about as you go through your journey. Enjoy your journey Leslie and Alan
Very informative. See myself join the journey in a few years. just hope the real estate won't get too hot to afford. I would like to know if the older people have trouble with the roads, thank you.
Olá Amerlin, Thanks for watching and supporting our channel. Hard to predict the real estate market. I'm an older person, and so far the roads are fine 🙂 Obrigado Alan
Hi thanks for giving such detailed description of your experience with health services. We’ll be spending over a month in Madeira, but meanwhile my husband had a motorbike accident, he broke 7 ribs and the clavicular. He is 77. I just got back from a second back surgery, which was planned for. We live in Spain and we have both public and private health. For emergencies here always best to go to the public service, for planned surgeries you have to wait longer to get it done through public health. I know that in the States my daughter’s mother in law would pay over 100 dollars for her monthly dosage of cholesterol control meds, if she didn’t have the health care she is entitled to. Here even paying full price it costs about 28€ for the more modern cholesterol med that I take. I guess no more motorcycles for us, and I don’t know if my husband will be able to swim. Also no hiking for me 😔 . Mas será divertido!
Olá Luciana, Thanks for the continued support for our channel. I'm sorry to hear about your husband. Hope he heals ok. Thanks for sharing your thoughts about health care. Obrigado Alan and Leslie
@@ItllBeFun We’ve been down the path you have chosen to take, only we did it ten years ago. Of course it was easier for us to learn the language, but we started taking classes before moving. The big difference for us is that we came from a big vibrating metropolis to a much smaller vibrating city. I have been thinking a lot about US lifestyle because as you know my daughter lives there. Therefore I understand your comments, and I might add that our experiences and conclusions have a lot in common. Best wishes for you and Leslie.
Bom dia Helen Dudden, Thank you for providing information from the UK. We appreciate extra the information. Thanks also for watching and supporting our channel. Enjoy your journey Leslie and Alan
Alan please accept my humble and respectful observation in the way it is intended. The waving is more than a little weird in this context. I’m glad your friend found such great care. Funnily I was in ER today for stitches after banging my head. I was treated by a Kosovon. I love this world city.
Ola Witofthestaircasecase1, Sounds like you enjoyed the video. 😀 But did miss the fact that we went to have ponchas three times during the footage? That's what we thought was not correct based upon the subject matter. Anyway sorry about the stitches and hope you are ok. Have a wonderful day Leslie and Alan
Olá Tony, Thanks for supporting and watching our channel. If you are referring to the rock, I'll save it for you. If you meant that small boat out there, you are on your own. Ha ha. Obrigado Alan and Leslie
Thanks for the video. I had to have major back surgery at 39 without insurance. After all was said and done I had to come up with $33.000 before they would operate. If I had insurance it would have cost my insurance company $200.000. The American health care system is so far out of reach of reality for what the common man can afford. This and the cost of living here is what causes people to have to work until they die. Following you all's foot steps and trying to get out of this rat race by 56 years old.
Ola Brian Davis, Thanks for watching and supporting our channel. We appreciate it. Sorry to hear about your back. We hope you are better now. Yes, it is really nice to know you will be able to afford health insurance in Portugal. Enjoy your journey Leslie and Alan
Good stuff for sure. Is the VW your own car or the rental. I could definitely live out the rest of my life driving that car. I had a 67 and a 69. Same color. I close my eyes and I can still smell it. Easy to work on and maintain. Great fuel consumption. The health insurance conundrum here in the US…….it’s embarrassing. Like you, I definitely hope to make my last 20 years my best 20 years. Language is an interesting topic. I chose Italy, so far, because I have always loved the language. I have four years before my permanent move to build language skills. It seems to me that any bona fide effort will be appreciated. In Italy the drivers license procurement is an issue where language plays a part. A level A-2 proficiency is required and the extensive test is only in Italian. No US reciprocity. I believe that true integration will require the ability to communicate in the local language. Again, effort will always be rewarded. It appears that Portugal has a vibrant US ex-pat community and that can be helpful. At the same time, it can also hold you back. None the less, your hospital experience is encouraging and helpful. Thanks for the great video.
Olá Brian, Thanks for watching and supporting our channel. I've owned the car almost 30 years, and I'm the second owner. You should watch " Cost of importing car" video we did. It will tell you about the car. Enjoy your journey. Obrigado Alan and Leslie
Olá DarthDaddy1701, Thanks for watching and supporting our channel 😀. Diabetes care is free of charge in Portugal if you are part of the National Healthcare system, and insulin is usually reimbursed up to 90%. So I would say it's great. Obrigado Alan
Bom dia Enough, Thanks for sharing. Your information is on point and helps others to understand. We appreciate your support and comments. Enjoy your journey Leslie and Alan
I left the states 4 yrs ago. I'm in Europe now and heading to Portugal this Fall. I know I know I need to buy insurance before I apply for residency but unclear if it's six months or one years worth.
Ola AGL, Thanks for watching and supporting our channel. When we applied for our VISAS the required amount was 4 months insurance 30k minimum with expatriation. However I just met someone coming from Britain who was required to have 6 months. Hope this helps. Enjoy your journey Leslie and Alan
Unbelievable! We paid over $3000 for basically the same service (dog bite irrigation and x-ray) at an emergency room WITH insurance. We still didn't reach our deductible, and we pay over $400 a month for this crappy insurance for our family.
Ola Auror... Thanks for watching and supporting our channel. We know. It is hard to explain this to other people around the world. Thanks for adding your story. Have a wonderful day Leslie and Alan
This was great information. On a separate note, in case you did not do so before, could you tell us about the process and experience of importing your baby, the VW Bug, into Portugal? Cheers.
Olá Alex, Thanks for supporting and watching our channel. You should watch, "Cost of importing car" video we did. It's a good one to watch, and should answer your questions. Obrigado Alan and Leslie
Alan and Leslie....can you tell us how are you adjusting from say a single family home with a yard etc and now going to an apartment? do you guys feel a need for more space? if you are not on the ground floor, how easy it is to take Greer out for his personal business?
Bom dia Seinfeld Constanza, Welcome back! We are glad you are here. What a great question. That one definitely needs to go in a video. We worried about an apartment. We have always had lots of space large yards to gardens and garages to tinker in. So this is very different. But so far so good. We had to find new hobbies. So we made a TH-cam channel! 😊 And we are having lots of fun learning how, meeting new people on line and in person. It keeps us out and very busy. Enjoy your journey Leslie and Alan
@@ItllBeFun yes, amazing. You guys found another hobby. I bet you won't get tired going around the island. You have Funchal and when you want a bit of serenity you go North, East or West. Win win!
Bom dia Rosalinf Hicks, Thanks for your support. You are right Greer needs to have her own video soon. Maybe we can film her going to have her hair done, shopping for dog food and visiting the vet. Enjoy your journey Leslie and Alan
@@carlferreira6905 Obrigado Carl. You are correct. Greer is allowed most places as long as we are outside. There are a few where she is not but usually food is being prepared and served.
Man that would have been my co-pay in the US! I'm thinking of spending a month there next spring and hope to make a long-term move to Portugal. This channel will be super helpful. Here's my question. Is it fairly quiet there? One of the reasons I want to move from LA is the CONSTANT noise here. I haven't heard much about the noise level in videos. Thank you!
I only have much experience in northern portugal in the countryside near Ponte de Lima. There are a few things... Everyone has a rooster that starts crowing at daybreak (well, not everyone but somebody nearby will!). They do quiet down later but expect it early in the morning. Second, many people have dogs that bark. Both of these may be at a distance so maybe not much problem. The other thing is some holidays. Easter, all day long people set off fireworks that are just big booms - nothing visible except a little smoke. As far as I know that happens on only a few holidays but it can be a bit shocking. Otherwise I would tend to say it is fairly quiet.
@@MrBswede Interesting about the roosters. Would you say they are in the city areas too? That stood out to me when I was in Kauai as well. Where I live it's just a lot of city noise. Construction, sirens, lawn work (mowers and leaf blowers), loud music, and the entire month of July is fireworks here. lol.
@@carlferreira6905 Ha! Not really complaints just comments about the noise I hear in the countryside. It's kind of different than in the city. You just have to realize roosters are going to start crowing. Early! If your next door neighbor has a dog that barks all night and day... that's not entirely uncommon and it's annoying. In the cities I think the traffic noise is not as bad as in U.S. cities because the cities themselves don't have as much traffic. More rail and bus service but you do hear sirens etc. -- generally I think less so than Salt Lake City where I live (and I grant SLC may be somewhat quieter but it has a LOT of traffic).
@@TonyaS No, you wouldn't have rooster sin the city. At least I've never hear them. Dogs are probably more controlled in the city as well. Traffic is probably a little lighter since streets are often narrow and it doesn't allow for a lot of traffic. However often the streets are cobblestone so you might find a place with some rumbling. There are major highways into and around the cities of course so those could be noisy. Again, I feel like it would generally be a bit quieter there than in the U.S. cities. But really, go and experience it! By the way - major cities are probably Lisbon and Porto, lesser extent Braga. Funchal I bet would be very quiet!
@@MrBswede Right now my sights are set on Medeira, but I still have some research to do. My goal would be spend a month next year somewhere in Portugal to get a feel but it feels very appealing to set my sites on it longer term and apply for the D2v visa. Thanks SO MUCH for your feedback!
Ola OffGrid Wanabe, Nice to hear from you again. Thanks for your support We understand. Having proper medical coverage is very important and something we take seriously. Have a wonderful day Leslie and Alan
I like your demeanor and without having seen all of your videos, can you tell me what the weather is like s far as how it feels to be out and about there? I know I can check a weather report for Portugal, but I'd rather hear from an American living there if it always feels really hot and you're always sweating. I noticed your dog was panting a lot which makes me think it's pretty hot there. I'm not sure where in the US you're from as you may already be used to heat, but I live in an area that is usually around 70 degrees in the summer and then horribly cold in the winter months. I'm looking to leave deep snow and the cold. Thank you for the video.
Olá Ramey, Thanks for watching and supporting our channel. Today it was pretty warm, 82 degrees f. This is the hottest time of the year, so you'll see some like that. Most summer days in the mid to upper 70s. The weather is very nice here. Greer is older, and a little overweight. Just like me! We both need to lose a few pounds. It's a work in progress. Obrigado Alan
Ola JP, Our friend is healing nicely. Thank you for asking. Nice to hear from you again. We appreciate your support. Enjoy your journey Leslie and Alan
Just watched you video on Madeira healthcare system. This weekend is feira do gado do gado up in santa in Porto Moniz and please visit us as we live by the natural lava pools. Peace
Bom dia Anabela Costa, Thanks for watching and supporting our channel. Please send us an email. It is in the description of our videos. Obrigada Leslie
Wonderful video & great information. I'll have to try some Ponca. Wife & I plan to visit Madeira this fall or next spring; can't wait. We're 1-2 years out from retirement. PS. We love your videos and dry sense of humor!
Olá TJ, Thanks for supporting and watching our channel. Enjoy your Poncha, and your journey. We'll keep making videos and you keep watching! Obrigado Alan and Leslie
Ola Update Name, We have temporary residency now and after 5 years we can apply for permanent. Hope this helps. Thanks for watching and supporting our channel.
Olá Hannalu, Thanks for watching and supporting our channel 😀 Here's the link to our visa video th-cam.com/video/S9YJxbHXX_8/w-d-xo.html Here's the link to the sef and residency video th-cam.com/video/vvBmwI0woac/w-d-xo.html They should help. Obrigado Alan and
Thank you for the very detailed video. Your channel has given us hope for our retirement plans 😊. I hope your friend is doing well. I am very interested in your topics because I am 57 and have a torn rotator cuff a year ago and currently nursing a torn medial meniscus. I am afraid the US health care system will just bankrupt me or take away all the savings we have worked hard for during our productive life. Enjoy your life in Madeira and wish your family including Greer to stay safe. Trying to send you some $ for more fresh orange drinks but right now can't remember my Google password lol. I'll figure this out soon.
Olá Seinfeld Costanza, Thanks for supporting and watching our channel. Yes, our friend is fine now, thanks. We are very pleased with the health care here. Thanks for your words of encouragement. Enjoy your journey. Obrigado Alan and Leslie
My wife and I are planning to move to Madeira in for final years of our retirement. We have retired two years ago and our health Insurance is Medicare advantage Plus. We are planning to have Pvt medical insurance for both of us while in Portugal. Should we discontinue our Medicare insurance and depend on travel health insurance while visiting home on family occasions.
Ola Bhaskar, Thanks for watching and supporting our channel. The medicare question is personal, as Carl mentions. However, a couple things to look into. There are medicare plans that cover international travel / living. Also some plans are tied to your residency. Are you keeping a residence in the USA. We currently keep my Medicare advantage and have Private Português insurance. If you cancel your medicare and ever go back, it will go up in price (penalty) for the rest of your life. Hope this helps. Have a wonderful day Leslie and Alan
![Our Caravan Energy Costs So Far 8 Months In [Caravan Life UK]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/foDt9vKX500/mqdefault.jpg)
Your videos are great and have me seriously considering a move to Madeira. Thank you and congratulations for having the courage to leave the U.S. and live your dreams.
Olá Greg,
Thanks for supporting and watching our channel.
And for the kind words.
Enjoy your journey
Obrigado
Alan and Leslie
@@carlferreira6905 Couldn't agree more, Carl. First step will be to spend at least a month there, and probably three. I'm leaning more toward a part-time nomad lifestyle and spending 3 - 6 months in different locations around the world while keeping my "home base" in Northern California.
Ola Greg,
Thanks for the Super Thanks! We are grateful for your support. Please let us know what we can do to be of service as you go through your journey.
Leslie and Alan
As a portuguese i have to say that we are really bleassed to have a health system like this comparing with other countrys.
I often used our health system and normally the coast is zero euros.thanks and enjoy your retirement here in my country.may god blease your life.
Boa tarde marco Martin's
Thanks for supporting our channel.
You are blessed in your country to know you will not be forced into bankruptcy due to an illness.
We truly appreciate the ability to purchase private insurance for a reasonable price and to know that we will be able to get good quality care if needed.
Have a wonderful day
Leslie and Alan
I know! I'm a Portuguese immigrant living in Canada and keep in touch with my country that I frequently visit and where I have family and friends. I'm contemplating to return to enjoy my retired years there as I still love my country and the lifestyle in Canada has deteriorated markedly over the years and it's becoming more and more like the States!
Olá Tony,
Thanks for supporting and watching our channel.
Life is a journey.
Enjoy your journey.
Obrigado
Alan and Leslie
You give such simple, useful and relevant advice in an unhurried factual way. Really enjoy your journey!
Thanks Kathleen for watching and supporting our channel 😀.
Bom dia! New and Improved! Join our Patreon community! Click the link www.patreon.com/itllbefun
As always we would like to thank you for watching and for being our subscribers.
Each and every one of you mean the world to us!
And if you are not already, we invite you to subscribe and become part of our TH-cam community.
We would love for you to join us on our journey!
Enjoy your journey,
Alan and Leslie
Tell your American friends and family that paying more on taxes is not so bad, if you get proper and affordable health care in return… like the European counties have ;)
As a European, when I see someone from the USA posting their experience of Health care in a European country I never know if I should laugh or cry. Always leaves me feeling thankful for sure.
Olá Gordon,
Thanks for watching and supporting our channel. Our experience with the health care here has been very good, and we are very pleased with how we are treated 😀
Obrigado
Alan and Leslie
I do appreciate your measured and informative voiceovers. It's a refreshing change from most talking head TH-cam channels. Mahalo!
Ola Gerald,
Thank you very much. We are so glad you enjoyed watching our video.
Have a wonderful day
Leslie and Alan
Great video, You are amazing. Glad to see so much gratitude for my country. Thanks Alan and best wishes. Portugal is real an amazing Country
Olá Brizida,
Thanks for supporting and watching our channel.
It is a great place to live.
Obrigado
Alan and Leslie
Beautifully presented and easily understood. Thank you.
Thanks, Margaret for your kind words.
Obrigado
Alan and Leslie
Hi, so nice to hear you describe our Health System in such wonderful (but true) tones. My daughter has just had a baby in a public hospital (she has a very good private medical insurance but preferred a public hospital). I was present at the birth - it was complicated and long but the whole treatment and assistance were sterling. They asked for her Birth Plan and followed it meticulously. They had to deviate on 2 accounts but they informed duly and apologised profusely for having to deviate from her plan. All the nurses treated us as royalty - called her Princess, Darling, her own name (which I found wonderfully soothing), etc. The nursing staff were always by her side with the difficult breast feeding process and were immediately by her side when she had a hormonal meltdown, offering a wonderful support. Yes, it's not all roses and there is much to still be done in Health, Education, Bureaucracy, Judicial, but, I wouldn't trade living here for ANY other country in the world.
Olá Manuela,
Thanks for supporting and watching our channel.
And thanks for sharing your story . We love it here, and will continue to make positive videos.
Obrigado
Alan and Leslie
Also in an emergency you can go to a public hospital and be treated just as well. Maybe it will be a bit longer a wait, but care will be very good, and english will also be available. And it will be comoletelly FREE
Olá Lígia,
Thanks for the continued support of our channel. That is correct. As we have insurance, we go to the private hospital. I'm sure the public system is fine.
Obrigado,
Alan, Leslie and Wolf
Here in Portugal, on the mainland, the laboratory where I take my exams sends me by email. And I send them to the clinic, to the hospital, to the doctor I want.
The concept is this: the exams are mine. I do with them what I want.
Olá AJS,
Thanks for watching and supporting our channel 😀
We love that concept.
Obrigado
Alan and Leslie
Hi Alan and Leslie. We plan to move to Portugal next year. Your videos are informative and really put my mind at ease. Thanks from Canada
Hello, can you tell us what made you decide to move to Madeira if you don't mind. And how long did you plan the move? Me and the wife are maybe 4 years out but would like to gather as much info so I can plan better. Can you compare healthcare in Canada vs Portugal. thank you.
Boa tarde Francine da Silva,
Thanks you for your support. We appreciate it.
Good luck and enjoy your journey.
Leslie and Alan
Ola carl,
You are right.
Obrigado
Ola Seinfeld costanza,
Thanks for watching and supporting our channel.
We worked through our plans for over 3 years. And after lots of research a d planning we found Madeira Portugal to be the best choice for us. Weather. Culture, safety, Healthcare, friendliness, cost of living, visa process, etc.
We made Our channel in order to share our adventures, process, wins and loses as we go. We hope you will subscribe a d stay with us.
Have a wonderful day
Leslie and Alan
@@ItllBeFun thank you for the reply. And oh yes I'm subscribed. Love the way you guys do your videos and explain life and costs of Healthcare. They are very specific. Other channels will just say they are cheaper than this or that and don't give any specifics. 🥂
We have loved Madeira for over twenty years and have visited there at least once or twice each year (Covid permitting). We love the island, the climate and the politeness of the people. It’s so much much much more than a refuge where you go to live to get your ailments fixed because it’s cheaper there than in the USA.
Olá Susan,
Thanks for supporting and watching our channel. It's a complete lifestyle change from where we came from.
Enjoy your journey
Obrigado
Alan and Leslie
Thanks so much. I really enjoy your videos.
Ola Josef,
Thanks for watching and commenting it really helps our channel to grow.
Have a wonderful day
Alan
Your videos and the information are a 10. You are a bit deliberate in your talking style, but a Fanta tic job. I am sold on this.
Olá RF,
Thanks for watching and supporting our channel 😀 Obrigado
Alan and Leslie
Thank you Alan , your video are super helpful and educational, we are seriously looking to coming this summer to scout the island
Olá Eddie,
Thanks for watching and supporting our channel.
Glad you liked this.
Enjoy your journey.
Obrigado
Alan, Leslie and Wolf
Great story and very informative. I am sure you are making an effort to learn the language and I hope that process is going well.
Olá Jim,
Thanks for watching and supporting our channel 😀
Enrolled in university for classes. Hopefully we will improve.
Obrigado
Alan and Leslie
Hi Alan and Leslie. I love this one. It's great to get real dollar amounts. I love that you get your labs because they are yours. What a concept. Thanks for all the effort you put into creating these helpful videos.
Bom dia DesertDweller
Glad you are here.
The numbers really do help . We know that we were looking for education as well as any numbers we could find during our planning.
Thanks again for your support.
Enjoy your journey
Leslie and Alan
Here in Portugal, on the mainland, the laboratory where I take my exams sends me by email. And I send them to the clinic, to the hospital, to the doctor I want.
The concept is this: the exams are mine. I do with them what I want. And if I want, I can get the opinions I want, from different hospitals or doctors with the same tests.
Bless you ⚘
Olá Daniela,
Thanks for watching and supporting our channel 😀
Obrigado
Alan and Leslie
Very Cool !
Bom dia Doron Matmor,
Thanks for watching our channel.
I know. Kind of amazing.
Enjoy your journey
Leslie and Alan
Your narrative it's getting better and better, keep doing it, you're my inspiration for the next step in my life.
Ola Thinking mammal,
Thanks for the encouragement. We love it!
Have a wonderful day
Leslie and Alan
I really appreciate your SPECIFICITY here! So often, TH-camrs talk in generalities and I can understand why. However, you gave the sort of detailed information that really helps your viewers get a handle on what they might expect. So thank you for going above and beyond. Have high hopes that if the economy escapes a complete meltdown, that a Madeira Fact-finding trip will happen in the first quarter of 2023. Hoping your friend/neighbor is on the mend. Thanks for what you do -- as always.
Ola admin desk,
We hope you still get to come. Our friend is healing nicely. Thank you for asking.
Fingers crossed that the economy doesn't crash.
It will make it harder on everyone.
Enjoy your journey
Leslie and Alan
unbelievable care. Just so great!! Thanks for bringing her! Guys are great❤❤👍👍👍🐶🐶🐶🐶🚙🚙
Ola Bernadette,
Nice to hear from you again! Thanks for your continued support.
The healthcare system here is fabulous.
Enjoy your journey
Leslie and Alan
i enjoyed this video very much, thank you .
Olá Catherine,
Thanks for watching and supporting our channel 😀 Obrigado
Alan and Leslie
Thank you so much for this. I will be coming to Madeira soon and your excellent, informative video has answered a lot of my questions. Keep at it! I liked the video a lot.
Olá Whiskymeets,
Thanks for watching and supporting our channel 😀
Lots more videos for you to watch.
Obrigado
Alan and Leslie
I just cannot express how much I appreciate the time you put into these videos, as well as your commentary and point of view. Well done. Thank you!
Boa tarde Carlos de la Garza,
We feel the same way about our supporters. Thank you very much for making our efforts worth while.
Have a wonderful day
Leslie and Alan
Those real life examples were very helpful and I am shocked at the prices! Thanks very much.
That's the advantage of having a public system which drives prices down. The private system cannot drive up the price because people would go to the public system.
I've just started watching your videos. I have been researching Portugal and you are enhancing my desire to move there. Thank you.
Bom dia Wanda,
We are glad you are here. Welcome!
Portugal is wonderful and as you know we truly love Madeira island. However Carl has a point. We encourage you to do a scouting trip and visit as many areas as you can. This way you will be sure to choose your perfect next adventure.
We hope to see you in Madeira in the future.
Enjoy your journey
Leslie and Alan
Thank you. Heading there this year to experience.
Thanks so much for sharing this experience. We will be in Madiera this summer. Looking for our new home.
Congratulations and hopefully you keep us updated. I am already looking at the Idealista website even though I may have a few years to go.
Olá Reality Check,
Thanks for supporting and watching our channel.
More to come; keep watching.
Enjoy your journey.
Obrigado
Alan and Leslie
Obrigado
De nada
Another super video - thank you! :)
Olá Steve,
Thanks for watching and supporting our channel.
Obrigado
Alan, Leslie and Wolf
@@ItllBeFun :) I will be moving to Madeira in about 6 months ...obrigado
I’m moving there next year maybe we’ll meet , keep enjoying your life .
We hope to meet you thanks for watching. If you are going to rent or buy a property we would appreciate it if you would give our relocation team a chance. You can find all of support team at www.itllbefunretirement.com and you can email the real estate group with this email claudia.ribeiro@imocabrera.com
Absolutely Beautiful ... ❤
Thank you! 😊
Thanks for watching and supporting our channel 😀.
I’m happy that you’re channel found me😊 very informative. It’s mind blogging how much we are ripped off here in America, plus trust me most of us here aren’t treated that nice at hospitals, especially now . You both are blessed to experience a more relaxed peaceful life in Portugal . Thanks TH-cam for listening to the conversation I was having with my husband over the weekend about retiring to Portugal, now I have info and you got a new subscriber 😂
Bom dia Regi Franco,
We are glad you found us. Even if TH-cam was hanging out in your kitchen, listening.😊
We hope you continue to follow our journey. Don't forget to give us ideas of things you would like to learn about.
Enjoy your journey
Leslie and Alan
There is nothing to talk about. you know the origin of your family (Franco). most likely you are a descendant of Madeiran emigrants who went to the USA. you must come home.
I am totally gobsmacked at your sensational effort. What an inspiration you are. I have travelled extensively and have tried to document some of it here on TH-cam but it’s nothing compared to this. Good on you both and keep up the great videos and your experiences.
Olá Global Travel,
Thanks for supporting and watching our channel. Keep watching.
More to come.
Obrigado
Alan and Leslie
@@ItllBeFun thanks a lot, I am just in awe of you both. Hope I get some people to my channel soon but not holding my breath as I cannot match your great effort.
Alan. You forget to inform your viewers the name - translet to english, of the woden stick that you use to do the juice mix
Olá Carlos,
I did not forget to translate the Poncha stick.
Let's just say, it the F word stick! Not my translation, though.
Obrigado
Alan and Leslie
You could win any Ernest Hemingway look alike contest hands down! Thanks for the great info!
Olá Winter Biker,
Thanks for supporting and watching our channel. If they have an Ernest Hemingway look alike contest here I'll enter! Ha!!Ha!!
Obrigado
Alan and Leslie
Thank you for this amazing information!
Olá Sue,
Thanks for the continued support for our channel.
Obrigado
Alan and Leslie
Thank you for your very informative video. An avid fan here from Canada. We are seniors and retired and we find your vlog very helpful. Thank you and God bless.
Bom dia Margarita Trinidad,
We are so glad you have been following us and commenting along the way. Your comments and support really help our channel to grow.
Thank you very much.
Have a wonderful day
Leslie and Alan
Greer is so cute!
This one is biased as well.
This channel is the best ever! 🤣🤣
Huh.... Biased comment...but I agree!... 🤣🤣🤣
I know!!!!!
Hi
I stayed in Arco de cahletta in 2004 . I was there for 3 months...it was super. Madelena del mar was one of our favourite places.
Olá Barry,
Thanks for supporting and watching our channel.
Yep, it's a favorite of ours, to.
Obrigado
Alan and Leslie
Love your videos.
Thank you for sharing your journey ❤️.
Olá Rena,
Thanks for the continued support for our channel. And for your kind words.
Obrigado
Alan and Leslie
Love,love, this video! 😊 Thanks
Olá Joan,
Thanks for watching and supporting our channel.
Obrigado
Alan and Leslie
Had to go to private hospital in Dublin with health insurance and it cost with tests & Doctors just under E500 in A& E, then the prescription on top of that. That is wonderful health care. As I visited the Public A & E after 12hrs no meds no results just go home.
I have Asthma/ COPD and was very unwell.
Ola majella lynch,
Thanks for watching and sharing your experience. We appreciate your support.
Have a wonderful day,
Leslie and Alan
Amazing! How informative this video is. Thank you!
Olá Jeanne Cronce,
Thanks for the continued support for our channel.
Keep watching. More to come.
Obrigado
Alan and Leslie
How nice, how wonderful! Thanks ❤️👍
Ola Redgree16,
Nice to hear from you again. Thanks for your support.
Have a wonderful day
Leslie and Alan
@@ItllBeFun I do really enjoy and appreciate your presentation, your sound is excellent. I’m from the states now in Alcobaca.
Thanks so much 👍❤️
Loved it. Thank you for all the details.
Boa tarde Rise alapatt,
Thanks!
Have a wonderful day
Leslie and Alan
Very good video with very important information for people moving into portugal. Thanks Alan for sharing.
Boa tarde Cleaning Time,
Thanks. Have a wonderful day!
Thanks!
Olá Seinfeld Costanza,
Obrigado
Alan
@@ItllBeFun if you don't mind, I posted a link of your TH-cam channel to one of the Facebook groups that I have joined about Portugal/Madeira.
@@seinfeldcostanza9433 can you repost the link?
Sorry I meant, I posted a link of your TH-cam channel to one of the Madeira Facebook groups I recently joined. It's mostly full of people asking about this and that. Group is called "Moving to Portugal". There was an older couple there asking about Healthcare costs in Portugal and I thought your channel would answer a lot of their questions.
@@seinfeldcostanza9433 Absolutely! We will take any help we can get!
Would be nice if you also included the date of the video so we know if this is relatively current info or may be a bit dated. Also, nice video. Thanks.
Olá Ben,
Thanks for watching and supporting our channel.
The published date of all our videos can be found in the video description. Beside the video title, touch the down arrow to open the description.
Obrigado
Alan and Leslie
Your videos are so well done. I love all the shots at the ocean! The beaches look gorgeous! Thanks for posting another very informative vlog. I look forward to more! Stay safe!
✌🏻🙂✌🏻
Bom dia Ocean Lover,
We are glad you are enjoying the views! We are amazed every single day by the views. To our surprise the mountain views are truly as wonderful as the ocean.
Thanks for watching and supporting our channel.
Have a wonderful day
Leslie and Alan
@@carlferreira6905 Sounds amazing! Much prettier than most the beaches here in California!
✌🏻🙂✌🏻
@@ItllBeFun Yes! I noticed the mountains too! Gorgeous all around! ✌🏻
Nice explanation of the Portuguese healthcare system
Olá Luísa,
Thanks for the continued support for our channel.
Obrigado
Alan and Leslie
Ola Luisa,
Thank you. Nice the hear from you.
Have a wonderful day
Leslie and Alan
Welcome to Madeira. 👍👍👍👍❤️❤️❤️❤️
You should be sleeping!
Bom dia Paulo Camara,
Obrigado!
@@ItllBeFun 👍👍👍👍❤️
Olá Alan and Leslie. This a great follow up video to your previous one on healthcare in Portugal. Judging by the number of views already, it's really generating a lot of interest. Congratulations on the growing success of your channel. You'll reach 5K subscribers in no time with your great content. Looks like your a dab hand at mixing your own Poncha! Cheers!
Olá John,
Thanks for the continued support for our channel. Yep, making Poncha is almost as fun as drinking them!
Thanks for the kind words.
More to come.
Obrigado
Alan and Leslie
@@ItllBeFun Well that didn't take long! I see you just broke the 5K subscribers barrier! Time to celebrate with another jug of Poncha! Cheers.
@@John_McFadden I know! It'll be fun! I wonder if we get two for 10k?
Great video. My wife and I were on Madeira last summer and it really is a great island. For us though, unfortunately, we couldn’t get used to the steepness of the roads. We’ll be looking at the Azores next and then possibly continental Portugal. I am in middle of getting my Portuguese citizenhip as all my grandparents were born in Portugal so once that happens (in early 2023) we’ll be looking at making a move.
Bom dia Skip DaCosta,
Thanks for watching and supporting our channel.
The Azores was on the top of our list as well. Have fun making your final choice.
We are jealous and happy that you will qualify for Português citizenship.
We only have 9% Português blood between us. 😊
Enjoy your journey
Leslie and Alan
Good evening
Thank you so much for the great videos, I look forward each week and really enjoy the content and your laid back humor. Thanks for taking so many hours editing.
It looks like paying for Private insurance and paying out of pocket for emergencies at a private hospital visit is no comparison to healthcare in the USA
Cheers!
Andrew
Bom dia Andy w,
Thanks for being here each week. We appreciate your support.
We are getting a little better at filming, editing, writing and recording. Fingers crossed we get a lot better and faster soon!!!!😊
Enjoy your journey
Leslie and Alan
Very encouraging. My wife and I are in our fifties and healthcare is one of our top considerations as we plan our move to Portugal for next November. Did you bring your dog from the States? We have a 65 lb. golden doodle, eight years old, who we need to factor into the equation. Thanks again - your vids are inspirational.
Olá Rob,
Thanks for watching and supporting our channel 😀
We brought a dog and a cat from USA. Here's a link to our pet video th-cam.com/video/V6wKTMKDmLM/w-d-xo.html
Hope it helps
Alan
Great video, what a good lookimg dog.
Olá Blind spot,
Thanks for watching!
You are speaking about the 4 legged one? 😄
Obrigado
Alan
Thanks for the beautiful video 👍🇵🇹 enjoy the Portuguese way of life that is respect each other helping one person at time in the end we all become a big family !!!! When you have a chance, Please visit the Azores 🇵🇹🇵🇹🇵🇹
Olá paula,
Thanks for watching and supporting our channel.
We very much enjoy the Portuguese way of life.
And we plan to visit the Azores, too.
Obrigado
Alan and Leslie
Life is Good if you do not weaken!!!! Gubby statement!
Makes me smile
Enjoyed your video.
Ola Charles,
Thanks for your support. We appreciate it.
Glad you enjoyed watching.
Have a wonderful day
Leslie and Alan
Thank you for another very helpful video it really is so nice that you share your experiences with us as it gives us more and more confidence to make our move to Madeira 🌸
Boa noite Alan Sue,
Thanks for your continued support. We appreciate it.
Glad you are enjoying the videos and subjects.
Have a wonderful day
Leslie and Alan
Thank you for the info on what is probably the main worry for us older Americans when considering an overseas move. Jen and I just got back from eight days in Sao Miguel, Azores. By the third day Jen - always the skeptic - declared she was ready to move in :)
Yeah Andrew and Jenn,
Sounds like you have found your next adventure!
Enjoy your journey
Leslie and Alan
Another great video Alan! I too have MGEN and for the sake of your viewers who read comments, I pay €122mo for my coverage which includes Dental. I've been fortunate not to have to visit the doctor but wanted to share.
Do you also live in Portugal? All this info gives me hope in retirement.
@@seinfeldcostanza9433 Yes, I live in Porto.
@@OhMyPortugal wow, another beautiful place. We were there 2 years ago and we loved the place too.
Boa tarde Jeff Hill,
Thanks for sharing. This is very helpful information.
Thanks for supporting our channel. We appreciate it.
Leslie and Alan
Hi Jeff, please provide if you can who you used to purchase your health insurance in Portugal? We are moving soon and getting quotes now. Thanks JP
That's amazing how cheap it was to be treated !!! Wow . If you go to the USA emergency room is would have been $2k.and up .. Very nice .
Ola Wild Bill,
Nice to hear from you again.
It is amazing.
Have a wonderful day
Leslie and Alan
Yeah, you don’t wanna mess around with dog bites. They could lead to sepsis. Strong work. But the neighbor should definitely offer to pay for her expenses. Also steer clear of that dog, and get pepper spray.
Ola Heron,
Nice to hear from you again. Thanks for your continued support.
Agreed. Her hand is healing nicely. And she is not going near the dog again.
Enjoy your journey
Leslie and Alan
Very informative video, thank you! I’m really enjoying your series on living in Portugal. (Liked and subscribed ;-) )
Olá Libyan,
Thanks for watching and supporting our channel.
And for subscribing to our channel.
Obrigado
Alan and Leslie
Thanks for the heads up & info we are looking into moving to mainland Portugal healthcare is a major issue for me with very little first hand info out there
Bom dia David I,
Thanks for watching and supporting our channel.
When we were exploring we were looking for more first hand experiences as well. Hence our TH-cam channel.
Enjoy your journey
Leslie and Alan
Another informative and nicely done video. We are planning to move to PT April 2023, most likely Madeira so your health insurance info was helpful.
Bom dia Hermes,
We are glad you are here. Let us know what other topics you are ready to learn about as you go through your journey.
Enjoy your journey
Leslie and Alan
Very informative. See myself join the journey in a few years. just hope the real estate won't get too hot to afford. I would like to know if the older people have trouble with the roads, thank you.
Olá Amerlin,
Thanks for watching and supporting our channel. Hard to predict the real estate market. I'm an older person, and so far the roads are fine 🙂
Obrigado
Alan
Hi thanks for giving such detailed description of your experience with health services. We’ll be spending over a month in Madeira, but meanwhile my husband had a motorbike accident, he broke 7 ribs and the clavicular. He is 77. I just got back from a second back surgery, which was planned for. We live in Spain and we have both public and private health. For emergencies here always best to go to the public service, for planned surgeries you have to wait longer to get it done through public health. I know that in the States my daughter’s mother in law would pay over 100 dollars for her monthly dosage of cholesterol control meds, if she didn’t have the health care she is entitled to. Here even paying full price it costs about 28€ for the more modern cholesterol med that I take.
I guess no more motorcycles for us, and I don’t know if my husband will be able to swim. Also no hiking for me 😔 . Mas será divertido!
Olá Luciana,
Thanks for the continued support for our channel.
I'm sorry to hear about your husband. Hope he heals ok.
Thanks for sharing your thoughts about health care.
Obrigado
Alan and Leslie
@@ItllBeFun We’ve been down the path you have chosen to take, only we did it ten years ago. Of course it was easier for us to learn the language, but we started taking classes before moving. The big difference for us is that we came from a big vibrating metropolis to a much smaller vibrating city. I have been thinking a lot about US lifestyle because as you know my daughter lives there. Therefore I understand your comments, and I might add that our experiences and conclusions have a lot in common. Best wishes for you and Leslie.
In the UK it would cost much more. We have terrible problems with the NHS. Many are going private.
Bom dia Helen Dudden,
Thank you for providing information from the UK. We appreciate extra the information.
Thanks also for watching and supporting our channel.
Enjoy your journey
Leslie and Alan
Alan please accept my humble and respectful observation in the way it is intended. The waving is more than a little weird in this context. I’m glad your friend found such great care. Funnily I was in ER today for stitches after banging my head. I was treated by a Kosovon. I love this world city.
Ola Witofthestaircasecase1,
Sounds like you enjoyed the video. 😀 But did miss the fact that we went to have ponchas three times during the footage? That's what we thought was not correct based upon the subject matter.
Anyway sorry about the stitches and hope you are ok.
Have a wonderful day
Leslie and Alan
@@ItllBeFun Thanks for your kind reply. There are always bumps in the road but we hope that, in retirement, they are gentler.
@@witofthestaircase1 True
Old my beer Alan, is that my retirement toy at sea (min. 13) in front of praia formosa beach? 🤣🤣
Olá Tony,
Thanks for supporting and watching our channel.
If you are referring to the rock, I'll save it for you. If you meant that small boat out there, you are on your own. Ha ha.
Obrigado
Alan and Leslie
Beautiful
Olá Bryant,
Thanks for watching and supporting our. Obrigado
Alan and Leslie
Thanks for the video. I had to have major back surgery at 39 without insurance. After all was said and done I had to come up with $33.000 before they would operate. If I had insurance it would have cost my insurance company $200.000. The American health care system is so far out of reach of reality for what the common man can afford. This and the cost of living here is what causes people to have to work until they die. Following you all's foot steps and trying to get out of this rat race by 56 years old.
Ola Brian Davis,
Thanks for watching and supporting our channel.
We appreciate it.
Sorry to hear about your back. We hope you are better now.
Yes, it is really nice to know you will be able to afford health insurance in Portugal.
Enjoy your journey
Leslie and Alan
Olá Brian,
Thanks for supporting and watching our channel.
Wishing you well.
Enjoy your journey
Obrigado
Alan and Leslie
Good stuff for sure. Is the VW your own car or the rental. I could definitely live out the rest of my life driving that car. I had a 67 and a 69. Same color. I close my eyes and I can still smell it.
Easy to work on and maintain. Great fuel consumption. The health insurance conundrum here in the US…….it’s embarrassing. Like you, I definitely hope to make my last 20 years my best 20 years. Language is an interesting topic. I chose Italy, so far, because I have always loved the language. I have four years before my permanent move to build language skills. It seems to me that any bona fide effort will be appreciated. In Italy the drivers license procurement is an issue where language plays a part. A level A-2 proficiency is required and the extensive test is only in Italian.
No US reciprocity. I believe that true integration will require the ability to communicate in the local language. Again, effort will always be rewarded. It appears that Portugal has a vibrant US ex-pat community and that can be helpful. At the same time, it can also hold you back. None the less, your hospital experience is encouraging and helpful. Thanks for the great video.
Olá Brian,
Thanks for watching and supporting our channel.
I've owned the car almost 30 years, and I'm the second owner. You should watch " Cost of importing car" video we did. It will tell you about the car.
Enjoy your journey.
Obrigado
Alan and Leslie
Thanks. How expensive are chronic conditions like diabetes and insulin?
Olá DarthDaddy1701,
Thanks for watching and supporting our channel 😀. Diabetes care is free of charge in Portugal if you are part of the National Healthcare system, and insulin is usually reimbursed up to 90%.
So I would say it's great.
Obrigado
Alan
@@ItllBeFun Thank you!
I was bitten bi a dog, in Louisiana. Waited 7 hours, private hospital and insurance. Total $3,236 + meds $38….. my out of pocket $2000.00 + meds
Bom dia Enough,
Thanks for sharing. Your information is on point and helps others to understand.
We appreciate your support and comments.
Enjoy your journey
Leslie and Alan
@@ItllBeFun nothing like the truth!
I left the states 4 yrs ago. I'm in Europe now and heading to Portugal this Fall. I know I know I need to buy insurance before I apply for residency but unclear if it's six months or one years worth.
Ola AGL,
Thanks for watching and supporting our channel.
When we applied for our VISAS the required amount was 4 months insurance 30k minimum with expatriation.
However I just met someone coming from Britain who was required to have 6 months.
Hope this helps.
Enjoy your journey
Leslie and Alan
@@ItllBeFun Thanks
Unbelievable! We paid over $3000 for basically the same service (dog bite irrigation and x-ray) at an emergency room WITH insurance. We still didn't reach our deductible, and we pay over $400 a month for this crappy insurance for our family.
Ola Auror...
Thanks for watching and supporting our channel.
We know. It is hard to explain this to other people around the world. Thanks for adding your story.
Have a wonderful day
Leslie and Alan
This was great information. On a separate note, in case you did not do so before, could you tell us about the process and experience of importing your baby, the VW Bug, into Portugal? Cheers.
Olá Alex,
Thanks for supporting and watching our channel.
You should watch, "Cost of importing car" video we did.
It's a good one to watch, and should answer your questions.
Obrigado
Alan and Leslie
Alan and Leslie....can you tell us how are you adjusting from say a single family home with a yard etc and now going to an apartment? do you guys feel a need for more space? if you are not on the ground floor, how easy it is to take Greer out for his personal business?
Bom dia Seinfeld Constanza,
Welcome back! We are glad you are here.
What a great question. That one definitely needs to go in a video.
We worried about an apartment. We have always had lots of space large yards to gardens and garages to tinker in. So this is very different. But so far so good. We had to find new hobbies. So we made a TH-cam channel! 😊
And we are having lots of fun learning how, meeting new people on line and in person. It keeps us out and very busy.
Enjoy your journey
Leslie and Alan
@@ItllBeFun yes, amazing. You guys found another hobby. I bet you won't get tired going around the island. You have Funchal and when you want a bit of serenity you go North, East or West. Win win!
Love seeing your doggie. Can you do a video on how pet friendly the area, businesses and restaurants are? Thanks
Bom dia Rosalinf Hicks,
Thanks for your support.
You are right Greer needs to have her own video soon. Maybe we can film her going to have her hair done, shopping for dog food and visiting the vet.
Enjoy your journey
Leslie and Alan
@@carlferreira6905 Obrigado Carl. You are correct. Greer is allowed most places as long as we are outside. There are a few where she is not but usually food is being prepared and served.
Man that would have been my co-pay in the US! I'm thinking of spending a month there next spring and hope to make a long-term move to Portugal. This channel will be super helpful. Here's my question. Is it fairly quiet there? One of the reasons I want to move from LA is the CONSTANT noise here. I haven't heard much about the noise level in videos. Thank you!
I only have much experience in northern portugal in the countryside near Ponte de Lima. There are a few things... Everyone has a rooster that starts crowing at daybreak (well, not everyone but somebody nearby will!). They do quiet down later but expect it early in the morning. Second, many people have dogs that bark. Both of these may be at a distance so maybe not much problem. The other thing is some holidays. Easter, all day long people set off fireworks that are just big booms - nothing visible except a little smoke. As far as I know that happens on only a few holidays but it can be a bit shocking. Otherwise I would tend to say it is fairly quiet.
@@MrBswede Interesting about the roosters. Would you say they are in the city areas too? That stood out to me when I was in Kauai as well. Where I live it's just a lot of city noise. Construction, sirens, lawn work (mowers and leaf blowers), loud music, and the entire month of July is fireworks here. lol.
@@carlferreira6905 Ha! Not really complaints just comments about the noise I hear in the countryside. It's kind of different than in the city. You just have to realize roosters are going to start crowing. Early! If your next door neighbor has a dog that barks all night and day... that's not entirely uncommon and it's annoying. In the cities I think the traffic noise is not as bad as in U.S. cities because the cities themselves don't have as much traffic. More rail and bus service but you do hear sirens etc. -- generally I think less so than Salt Lake City where I live (and I grant SLC may be somewhat quieter but it has a LOT of traffic).
@@TonyaS No, you wouldn't have rooster sin the city. At least I've never hear them. Dogs are probably more controlled in the city as well. Traffic is probably a little lighter since streets are often narrow and it doesn't allow for a lot of traffic. However often the streets are cobblestone so you might find a place with some rumbling. There are major highways into and around the cities of course so those could be noisy. Again, I feel like it would generally be a bit quieter there than in the U.S. cities. But really, go and experience it! By the way - major cities are probably Lisbon and Porto, lesser extent Braga. Funchal I bet would be very quiet!
@@MrBswede Right now my sights are set on Medeira, but I still have some research to do. My goal would be spend a month next year somewhere in Portugal to get a feel but it feels very appealing to set my sites on it longer term and apply for the D2v visa. Thanks SO MUCH for your feedback!
One of the reasons we stopped going to Florida was the cost of health care.
Ola OffGrid Wanabe,
Nice to hear from you again. Thanks for your support
We understand. Having proper medical coverage is very important and something we take seriously.
Have a wonderful day
Leslie and Alan
I like your demeanor and without having seen all of your videos, can you tell me what the weather is like s far as how it feels to be out and about there? I know I can check a weather report for Portugal, but I'd rather hear from an American living there if it always feels really hot and you're always sweating. I noticed your dog was panting a lot which makes me think it's pretty hot there. I'm not sure where in the US you're from as you may already be used to heat, but I live in an area that is usually around 70 degrees in the summer and then horribly cold in the winter months. I'm looking to leave deep snow and the cold. Thank you for the video.
Olá Ramey,
Thanks for watching and supporting our channel.
Today it was pretty warm, 82 degrees f.
This is the hottest time of the year, so you'll see some like that. Most summer days in the mid to upper 70s. The weather is very nice here. Greer is older, and a little overweight. Just like me! We both need to lose a few pounds. It's a work in progress.
Obrigado
Alan
Hi Alan, yes, we too are moving soon for a variety of reasons the biggest is health care! 160 Euro is amazing! How is you friend doing now? JP
Ola JP,
Our friend is healing nicely. Thank you for asking.
Nice to hear from you again. We appreciate your support.
Enjoy your journey
Leslie and Alan
Just watched you video on Madeira healthcare system. This weekend is feira do gado do gado up in santa in Porto Moniz and please visit us as we live by the natural lava pools.
Peace
Bom dia Anabela Costa,
Thanks for watching and supporting our channel.
Please send us an email. It is in the description of our videos.
Obrigada
Leslie
The major illness things are my concern. What about if you were diagnosed with cancer? Surgeries, radiation, chemo?
Ola Greg,
Thanks for watching and supporting our channel.
Healthcare in Portugal is as good as the USA. So no worries.
Have a wonderful day
The cost of at the hospital wasn’t bad at all!!
Olá Linda,
Thanks for the continued support for our channel.
Very reasonable 👌
Obrigado
Alan and Leslie
Wonderful video & great information. I'll have to try some Ponca. Wife & I plan to visit Madeira this fall or next spring; can't wait. We're 1-2 years out from retirement. PS. We love your videos and dry sense of humor!
Ola TJ,
Nice to hear from you again. They say a poncha a day keeps the doctor away. Not really but you can pretend.
Enjoy your journey
Leslie and Alan
Olá TJ,
Thanks for supporting and watching our channel. Enjoy your Poncha, and your journey. We'll keep making videos and you keep watching!
Obrigado
Alan and Leslie
Very interesting. Which private hospital did you go to?
Ola Jim,
Thanks for your continued support.
We went to the one in Sao Martinho.
Enjoy your journey
Leslie and Alan
lol... ya thats about 20k worth of treatment in the U.S
Bom dia William,
Thanks for being here.
It really is amazing.
Enjoy your journey
Leslie and Alan
Did you got permanent residency or just staying on a temporary tourist visa ?
Thank you sir.
Ola Update Name,
We have temporary residency now and after 5 years we can apply for permanent. Hope this helps. Thanks for watching and supporting our channel.
How hard was to get your residency in Portugal?
Olá Hannalu,
Thanks for watching and supporting our channel 😀
Here's the link to our visa video th-cam.com/video/S9YJxbHXX_8/w-d-xo.html
Here's the link to the sef and residency video th-cam.com/video/vvBmwI0woac/w-d-xo.html
They should help.
Obrigado
Alan and
Thank you for the very detailed video. Your channel has given us hope for our retirement plans 😊. I hope your friend is doing well. I am very interested in your topics because I am 57 and have a torn rotator cuff a year ago and currently nursing a torn medial meniscus. I am afraid the US health care system will just bankrupt me or take away all the savings we have worked hard for during our productive life. Enjoy your life in Madeira and wish your family including Greer to stay safe. Trying to send you some $ for more fresh orange drinks but right now can't remember my Google password lol. I'll figure this out soon.
Olá Seinfeld Costanza,
Thanks for supporting and watching our channel.
Yes, our friend is fine now, thanks. We are very pleased with the health care here. Thanks for your words of encouragement.
Enjoy your journey.
Obrigado
Alan and Leslie
My wife and I are planning to move to Madeira in for final years of our retirement. We have retired two years ago and our health Insurance is Medicare advantage Plus. We are planning to have Pvt medical insurance for both of us while in Portugal. Should we discontinue our Medicare insurance and depend on travel health insurance while visiting home on family occasions.
Ola Bhaskar,
Thanks for watching and supporting our channel.
The medicare question is personal, as Carl mentions.
However, a couple things to look into. There are medicare plans that cover international travel / living. Also some plans are tied to your residency. Are you keeping a residence in the USA.
We currently keep my Medicare advantage and have Private Português insurance. If you cancel your medicare and ever go back, it will go up in price (penalty) for the rest of your life.
Hope this helps.
Have a wonderful day
Leslie and Alan