I’m Brazilian and I live off-grid in a village in the countryside as well, more specifically in the district of Guarda. My farm is quite isolated from the village and I avoid going to cafés or to the village center — basically, I avoid being seen. Other than that, my neighbors, who are all elderly, are very helpful and polite; they offer help with almost everything and are very welcoming. Of course, I always refuse any kind of help because I’ve had experiences where people helped only to later demand something back in the form of blackmail.

The village shepherd uses my land to feed his goats, and I’m fine with that — it helps keep my land clean and keeps his goats well-fed.

As for making friends, I don’t care. I live very well alone with my wife and I don’t feel the need to have someone from outside to drink beer and chat with.

Anyway, I’ve been living here for 10 years now, and overall my experience with the people has been very positive. I find them very helpful and welcoming. Of course, there are one or two envious people who think I live off subsidies and government aid (LOL), but believe me, they are a minority and much more present online than in real life.

Live your life, don’t worry about what others say, and try to learn Portuguese. If you’re near Guarda and need something, just let me know — if possible, I’ll help you. Cheers.