Many come initially to finance existing loans (mortgages, car loans) back home. But the Portuguese community has a bounty to offer the Irish: rich culture, traditions and an optimistic attitude and outlook on life, not unlike the Irish one. The Irish and the Portuguese like each other.
 Their socialising and their alcohol consumption are on a par with ours. However, wherever alcohol is, food is also, thus perpetuating a healthier attitude toward both. Everything is done over food: alcohol, conversation, deals etc.
 The integration of second generation members invariably occurs faster than that of their parents. Many become more proficient in language and customs, and there are examples of offspring teaching parents to speak.  I spoke with Joano Guerra: “My son speaks perfect English in a Cork accent and tips me on the arm when I get it wrong.
He loves Ireland, he loves Portugal, he can return if he wants to. He has a dual option.” 
 With roughly 1,500 Portuguese here, community spirit is alive. The Portuguese and the Irish enjoy friendship and a patriotic sense that we all recognise. While sitting in ARCO-IRISH, a Portuguese-cuisine restaurant on Washington St, Rosinda Pimentel tells me she is homesick. She enjoys Ireland and Cork, but misses blue skies. Joao says the same and that the weather can be a thermostat for how much or little homesickness you feel on any given day. The Portuguese also choose to stay, and many stay much longer than initially anticipated. Visits home make it easier to feel balanced and helps to remain favourable towards Cork. But give me Lisbon!!!
 Excellent cuisine is available at ARCO-IRISH in Washington St. Cork.
Portuguese language classes are run at the College of Commerce, Morrisons Island, Cork.
 Go Benfica, David Lane