Portugal is a country of breathtaking monuments, such as Pena National Palace and Jerónimos Monastery. The Ria Formosa lagoon and Christ the King statue also provide wonderful opportunities for photos.
Popular destination
Around 2.1 million British nationals visit Portugal every year, which can be accessed from the United Kingdom by airplane, car, train and ferry.
Airplane is the quickest form of transportatio, with a flight from London to Lisbon, the capital of Portugal, taking just under three hours on average.
Taking this trip by train will require at least two days’ travel, driving will take around 21 hours, while the ferry can be travelled from Plymouth to Santander, however, additional arrangements will need to be in place to get you into Portugal.
If you are unsure as how to manage your diabetes while travelling Portugal, you should discuss this in advance with your diabetes team.
Time zone
Portugal is one hour ahead of Greenwich Mean time, which will not necessitate major changes to your diabetes management. However, it is always best to check online as daylight savings can ensure the time zones are the same.
Climate
Portugal has a very enjoyable climate, with warm winters and beautiful summers.
Average summer temperatures reach around 25°C across most of the country.
Regardless of what time of year visiting, travellers taking insulin should vigilantly monitor their blood sugar levels as insulin absorption can be enhanced in warmer temperatures.
You could consider reducing your dosages if you are planning any physical activity and are worried about hypoglycemia.
Currency
The currency in Portugal is the Euro, with exchange rates much better in the UK than in Portugal for those looking to exchange money. Most major debit and credit cards will be accepted in restaurants and supermarkets.
Vaccinations
There are no mandatory vaccinations required to enter Portugal, however rabies is present in bats in Portugal, so it is advised for those planning activities in remote areas that put them at risk for bat bites to receive a rabies vaccine.
UK Global Health Insurance Card
Apply for a GHIC (UK Global Health Insurance Card) – you can apply online at https://overseas-healthcare.nhsbsa.nhs.uk/get-healthcare-cover-travelling-abroad/start and you can receive free cover in some European countries.
Ensuring access to medication
Medication is available in Portugal, but payment is required from a pharmacy, for which the Portuguese translation is “ Farmácia ”.
However, possessing a GHIC card allows you to receive treatment at a lesser cost and this money can be recouped when you get back into the UK. Blood and urine testing kits are available from any pharmacy in Portugal.
If you are travelling with another person, the emergency services telephone number to be called in Portugal in the event of an emergency is 112.
Insulin
You should note which syringes are available in Portugal, with U-100 syringes the most commonly used.
The vast majority of insulin in the UK is U-100 insulin. If you need to take a different strength of insulin, say in an emergency, it’s important that you use the correct device and syringes for that insulin.
For example, you would use a U-40 syringe for U-40 insulin. You will need to work with a doctor getting the right dose if you’re using a different form of insulin.
Diabetes associations
It is important to note the diabetes associations in the country you are travelling to in case of an emergency.
There are two diabetic associations in Portugal that can be contacted for information prior to your stay. The addresses of these associations are:
- Associacao Protectora dos Diabeticos de Portugal (a member of the International Diabetes Federation (IDF) since 1952), Rua do Salitre, 118 – 120, 1250-203 Lisbo, Portugal Tel: +351-213816100 Email: [email protected]
- Sociedade Portuguesa de Diabetologia (a member of the IDF since 1997), Rua do Salitre 149, 1250 – 198 Lisboa, Portugal Tel: +351-213 524 147 Email: [email protected]
Questions
- How is blood glucose measured in Portugal? Blood glucose levels are measured in mg/dl
- What language is spoken in Portugal? Portuguese, although many locals will have a basic grasp of English, especially those that work in a customer service environment.
- Will I need an international driving license when driving in Portugal? No
- If I want to hire a vehicle during my visit, will I face any form of discrimination? No
- What sugar free drinks are available in Portugal? Diet Coke and mineral water, among others
