Digital Nomad Life in Luanda, Angola
Summary: Digital nomads like living in Luanda, Angola because it is a vibrant city with a low cost of living. The city is also known for its beautiful beaches, friendly locals, and vibrant nightlife. The approximate population of Luanda, Angola is 8.8 million. The monthly cost of living for a digital nomad in Luanda is estimated to be around $1,000 USD. To rent a centrally located, one-bedroom apartment with high-speed internet access in Luanda, it would cost around $500 USD per month. The best neighborhood to live in Luanda is the Miramar neighborhood, as it is close to the beach and has a variety of restaurants and bars. The weather in Luanda, Angola is typically hot and humid, with temperatures ranging from the mid-70s to the mid-90s Fahrenheit.
How do I meet people in Luanda?
When we asked people living in Luanda about club and activities where newcomers can meet others, they responded:
"Expats in Luanda often join clubs and activities such as the Luanda International Community, the Luanda Expat Network, and the Luanda Expat Meetup Group. These clubs and activities provide a great way for expats to meet people and make friends. Additionally, expats can meet people by attending local events such as concerts, festivals, and art exhibitions. Expats can also meet people by joining local sports teams, taking language classes, or volunteering with a local charity. Finally, expats can meet people by simply exploring the city and talking to locals," said one expat who made the move to Luanda.
What is life like in Luanda?
When we asked people living in Luanda what life is like and how people spend their time, they said:
"Living in Luanda as an expat or digital nomad can be a unique and rewarding experience. The city is a vibrant and bustling metropolis, with a diverse population and a wide range of activities and attractions. Expats and digital nomads can find plenty of opportunities to explore the city's culture, cuisine, and nightlife. The cost of living in Luanda is relatively high, but there are plenty of affordable housing options available. The city is also well-connected, with a reliable public transportation system and a growing number of international flights. Expats and digital nomads can also take advantage of the city's excellent healthcare system and its many educational institutions," said one expat who made the move to Luanda.
Where should I live in Luanda?
We asked digital nomads and expats how they chose their neighborhood and found a place to live. They answered:
"One option for finding a place to live in Luanda is to search online for rental listings. Websites such as Imovirtual, Angola-Houses, and Angola-Property are good resources for finding rental properties in the city. Additionally, you can contact local real estate agents who specialize in the Luanda area. They can provide you with more information about available properties and help you find the perfect place to live. Finally, you can also ask friends and family who live in the area for recommendations," remarked one foreigner who made the move to Luanda.
What do I need to know before moving to Luanda?
When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Luanda, they said:
"Expats considering retiring in Luanda should be aware that the cost of living is very high, and that the city is prone to power outages and water shortages. It is important to research the availability of medical care and to ensure that any necessary medications are available. Additionally, expats should be aware that the crime rate in Luanda is high, and that it is important to take necessary precautions to stay safe. Finally, it is important to research the visa requirements for Angola, as well as the process for obtaining a residence permit," remarked one foreigner who made the move to Luanda.
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What do people appreciate most about the culture in Luanda?
"Expats in Luanda appreciate the city's vibrant culture, which is a mix of African, Portuguese, and Brazilian influences. They also enjoy the city's friendly people, who are always willing to help out newcomers. The city's diverse cuisine is another highlight, with a variety of dishes from all over the world. Expats also appreciate the city's vibrant nightlife, with plenty of bars, clubs, and restaurants to explore. Finally, the city's stunning natural beauty, with its beaches, lagoons, and forests, is a major draw for expats," explained one person living in Luanda, Angola.
"Eagerness to grow, they are appreciative of what I can offer and so make me feel needed and appreciated," said one expat in Luanda.
What do people find most challenging about the culture in Luanda?
"Expats in Luanda often find the language barrier to be one of the most challenging aspects of the local culture. Additionally, the cost of living in Luanda is very high, making it difficult for expats to adjust to the local economy. Furthermore, the city is known for its chaotic traffic and lack of public transportation, which can be difficult to navigate for those unfamiliar with the area. Additionally, the cultural norms and expectations can be difficult to understand for those coming from different backgrounds," said one person in Luanda.
"Getting used to the fact that they are not a clean nation, they have adapted to live in filth and seem content to do so," remarked one foreigner who made the move to Luanda.
What residency documents or visas did I need if I will be in Luanda for a while?
"If you plan to stay in Luanda for a while, you will need to obtain a valid visa from the Angolan Embassy or Consulate in your home country. Additionally, you will need to apply for a residence permit from the Immigration and Border Services of Angola. This permit will allow you to stay in the country for a certain period of time," said one expat in Luanda.
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What cultural blunders should I try to avoid making in Luanda?
We asked people in Luanda if they could share any humorous cultural blunders they commited. They wrote:
"It is important to be mindful of cultural norms when visiting Luanda. It is considered impolite to show up late to social gatherings, so it is important to arrive on time. It is also important to dress modestly and to avoid wearing revealing clothing. Additionally, it is important to be respectful of local customs and traditions, and to avoid making negative comments about them. It is also important to be aware of the local language and to avoid speaking English in public, as this can be seen as disrespectful. Finally, it is important to be aware of the local customs regarding physical contact, and to avoid touching people without their permission," said one person in Luanda.
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What are healthcare services like in Luanda?
When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Luanda, they replied:
"Healthcare services in Luanda, are a mix of public and private facilities, with the public sector facing challenges such as inadequate infrastructure, limited resources, and a shortage of skilled medical professionals. The private healthcare sector, on the other hand, offers better quality services, but at a higher cost, making it less accessible to the general population. Expatriates and wealthier locals often opt for private clinics and hospitals, which are equipped with modern facilities and staffed by qualified professionals, some of whom have been trained abroad. Pharmacies are available throughout the city, but the availability of medications can be limited, and counterfeit drugs are a concern. Emergency medical services are also available, but response times can be slow, and the quality of care may not be up to international standards. Overall, healthcare services in Luanda are improving, but significant challenges remain in terms of accessibility, quality, and affordability for the majority of the population," remarked one member in Luanda.
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What are the pros and cons of living in Luanda?
"Expats and digital nomads living in Luanda, often appreciate the warm and sunny weather, as well as the beautiful beaches along the Atlantic coast. They also enjoy the vibrant culture, friendly locals, and the opportunity to learn Portuguese. The city's growing expat community provides a sense of camaraderie and support for newcomers. On the other hand, expats and digital nomads may dislike the high cost of living in Luanda, as it is considered one of the most expensive cities in the world for expatriates. The lack of reliable public transportation and heavy traffic can make getting around the city challenging. Additionally, the quality of healthcare facilities may not be up to the standards that some expats are accustomed to, and there may be limited access to certain medications. Safety and security can also be a concern for expats living in Luanda, as crime rates are relatively high. The language barrier can be an issue for those who do not speak Portuguese, making it difficult to navigate daily life and interact with locals. Finally, the limited availability of high-speed internet and the lack of coworking spaces can be frustrating for digital nomads who rely on reliable connectivity for their work," said one digital nomad in Luanda.
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Relocating abroad soon? Make your move with AGS! AGS Worldwide Movers is a leader in the international moving industry. Our experience and expertise allows us to guarantee our clients the best quality moving services.
Relocating abroad soon? Make your move with AGS! AGS Worldwide Movers is a leader in the international moving industry. Our experience and expertise allows us to guarantee our clients the best quality moving services.
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About the Author
Betsy Burlingame is one of the founders of Digital Nomad Exchange and the Founder and President of Expat Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange and Digital Nomad Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.
Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.
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