Lisbon

Emergency: 112. Keep the street, building number and apartment entrance in Portuguese on your card. Confirm how an ambulance or police officer can reach the actual entrance. [S68]

Plan around crowds and the return journey

Portuguese travel advice highlights distraction theft on public transport and at crowded stops, accommodation security, drink spiking and late-night risks. Airport or transport strikes may also disrupt a plan at short notice. Check the day's actual services before setting out. [S75]

For busy trams, viewpoints and events, put tickets and directions somewhere accessible without exposing financial accounts. Keep belongings controlled while taking photographs. Arrange the return before the group separates for dinner or a late event.

Conferences and new introductions

A conference badge, community chat or shared investment does not verify a stranger. Confirm private invitations with the host through an independent channel. Use a staffed meeting venue, a finishing time and your own transport.

Do not let a networking conversation become an impromptu OTC settlement, wallet demonstration or software installation. Keep a separate work device if demonstrations are necessary, with no access to reserves or their recovery. Review counterparties through the EU process in chapter 29. [S79]

Apartments and extended stays

Before paying for a longer rental, verify the property, host and payment route through established channels. Confirm locks, shared entrances, fire exits, cleaner access and who answers after hours. A friendly host is not a substitute for usable access control.

Give family and staff a clear delivery rule. An unsolicited parcel, urgent maintenance visit or person claiming to represent the owner should be checked with the known contact before entry or payment. If the home becomes publicly linked to wealth, ask for a tailored professional assessment.

Keep travel status and money planning separate

Do not rely on an old “crypto-friendly” or “tax-free” description. Residence, tax treatment and permission to provide or use a financial service are separate questions. Get advice for your circumstances before changing residence or arranging a substantial disposal. Provider registration is not personal tax advice. [S79]

For a coastal or countryside outing, check current weather and fire warnings, transport and the route back. Assign an adult to supervise children near water; do not assume another guest is watching them. [S75]

If the plan fails: use a staffed venue while arranging a verified alternative. Keep a conventional payment backup and the accommodation address offline. An urgent cash shortage should not force a first-time private crypto trade.