Property in Portugal remains popular among British expats, according to freelance travel journalist Marc Da-Silva.

He explains that many people are currently looking at the prospect of relocating abroad in order to raise their general quality of life.

For those planning to do so, property in Portugal, France and Spain is often a priority, along with English-speaking places further afield including New Zealand, Australia, Canada and the US.

"A lot of people have taken early retirement after the recent credit crunch, so that is certainly one factor for moving overseas," he says.

"Another one is obviously that quality of life is generally considered to be better overseas."

Factors that play a role in determining this quality of living include property prices, the cost of living itself and food, he adds.

Mr Da-Silva suggests that, along with recent retirees, young couples are also likely to be among the people looking to make a break and relocate.

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