Television
I love learning about Portuguese culture. Not just the obvious bits but the daily norms. And what could be more normal than mooching infront of the TV? I have put together this list for Free-To-Air and Netflix to immerse yourself.
NETFLIX
There isn’t a whole lot, which I suspect has a bit to do with production budgets required vs audience numbers. Hopefully there will be more to come in the future.
Rabo do Peixe
Based on a true story, set in Os Açores (The Azores), it follows the life of four young friends whose lives change forever when a tonne of cocaine washes up onto the island. Yes, that really happened. The second season is out now, as well as a new documentary.
In Portuguese with English Subtitles available.
Bestie tip: This article in The Guardian is a must-read. It’s absolutely wild.
Glória
Set in the late 60’s, a small town in Portugal becomes engulfed in a web of political intrigue when a young engineer is recruited as a KGB spy while also being in the pockets of the CIA.
In Portuguese with English Subtitles available.
Por Do Sol
At first glance it looks like any other cheesy telenovela. What it actually is, is a comedy that takes the micky out of the over-the-top storylines and dramatics in telenovelas. It was also on free to air and was so popular they even made a movie.
In Portuguese only with no English subtitles, unfortunately. If you don’t have Netflix, you can watch it here.
FREE TO AIR
If you have free to air TV with your internet/phone provider like I do with Vodaphone, you’re sitting on a goldmine of Portuguese content. There’s dramatic telenovelas, the usual morning/panel type shows and of course, reality TV (it seems like Big Brother is somehow always on). Then of course you have the news and the football (soooo much football) across several channels. Mostly though, I have three main things I watch.
24Kitchen
The local cooking shows on channel 24Kitchen are my go-to. I’m always seeing new Portuguese dishes, and instructions such as “adding salt” or "combine this” while demonstrating are useful for Portuguese language learning. Henrique Sá Pessoa is my favourite, I call him my Portuguese uncle cause I feel I watched so much of him, but he’s a well respected Michelin star chef. You can check out all their chefs and recipes here.
O Preco Certo (The Price Is Right)
My fave show is on channel RTP1. It’s just like the one we’re already familiar with from home, but a little more bonkers. The host, Fernando Mendes, is hilarious. The contestants shower him with random gifts from their hometown. The prizes are pretty pathetic and the whole thing is a bit unhinged. It’s also great way to learn your numbers! You can also watch it here if you don’t have TV hooked up.
I also recommend Joker if you're into game shows. Hosted by the very likable Vasco Palmeirim, a face you’ll soon become very familiar with as one of Portugal's biggest celebs.
RTP Memoria
This channel is all about nostalgia. Re-runs of old popular programs and documentaries about times gone by. It really shines when there's a national holiday to commemorate, like April 25th or Christmas.
Bestie Tip: Familiar English TV on other channels, like Property Brothers or Law & Order has Portuguese subtitles, so it’s also a good way to learn the language.