Amadora is a city in the Lisbon Metropolitan Area, located in the western part of Portugal. According to the latest census, the city has a population of approximately 175,000 inhabitants. The city's urban area is highly populated, with several high-density neighborhoods and social housing projects, such as the Quinta da Mina and the Venda Nova neighborhoods. Despite the high population density, the city has a good public transport network and excellent accessibility to the capital, Lisbon.
In terms of happiness, several factors contribute to the well-being of the inhabitants of Amadora. One of the primary factors that affect happiness is the quality of life in the city. Despite being an urban area, Amadora has a considerable amount of green spaces and parks, such as Parque Aventura and Parque Central. These green spaces provide residents with the opportunity to engage in outdoor activities and enjoy nature, contributing to a better quality of life. Additionally, the city has several leisure areas, including the popular Dolce Vita Tejo shopping center, which attracts many visitors.
Another significant factor contributing to the happiness of Amadora's inhabitants is access to housing. The city has a wide range of housing options, including affordable and social housing projects, which cater to the needs of a diverse population. Moreover, the city's location and excellent accessibility to Lisbon make it an attractive place to live, especially for those who work in the capital but prefer a more affordable cost of living.
The employment rate in Amadora is relatively high, which also contributes to the happiness of its residents. The city has several industrial parks and office complexes, such as the Amadora International Business Center, which provides job opportunities for many residents. Additionally, Amadora is home to several schools and educational institutions, including the Instituto Superior de Novas Profissões, which provides higher education opportunities for the city's youth.
However, there are also factors that negatively impact the happiness of Amadora's inhabitants, such as air quality and pollution. The city is located in a region that experiences high levels of pollution, mainly due to the heavy traffic that passes through the area. As a result, the air quality in the city is often poor, which can lead to health problems for residents, particularly those with respiratory issues.
Traffic and commuting are also significant issues in Amadora. The city's location makes it a busy intersection for several major highways, leading to high levels of traffic congestion during rush hour. Commuting to and from work can be stressful for residents, leading to increased levels of noise and stress.
Finally, weather can also impact the happiness of Amadora's inhabitants. The city experiences a Mediterranean climate with hot summers and mild winters, which can be uncomfortable for some residents, particularly those who are sensitive to heat. Additionally, the city can experience heavy rain and occasional flooding during the winter months, which can disrupt daily life.
Amadora is a vibrant city in the Lisbon Metropolitan Area, with a diverse population and a wide range of housing and employment opportunities. The city's green spaces, parks, and leisure areas contribute to a high quality of life for its residents, while its location and accessibility to Lisbon make it an attractive place to live. However, issues such as air quality, traffic, and weather can negatively impact the happiness of its inhabitants. Overall, Amadora is a city with both advantages and challenges, making it a unique and dynamic place to call home.