Feb09 East Algarve Magazine by Richard Bassett

MAGAZINE FREE VILA REAL · TAVIRA · CABANA S · OLH Ã O · S Ã O BR Á S · MONCARAPACHO · CASTRO MARIM East Algar ve FOCUS ON WIN! February 2009 Valentines SPECIALGardening sAlgarvianpringﬂowers apedicurerelaxing © Natural poolsswimming Olhão and its future Eastalgarve_Issue2.indd 1 28/1/09 12:16:59

ARTPUBLISHER,EDITOR&DIRECTOR Richard Bassett CO-ORDINATORSEDITORIAL Susan Purvis Richard Bassett Snr. Katie Bassett PHOTOGRAPHS Gordon Railton CO-ORDINATORADVERTISING Susan Purvis CONSULTANT Arne Jakobsen the Great Dane PRINTED BY GraficasLitografis-ArtesLda,Ferreiras DISTRIBUTION Advertisers will be issued copies for distribution, along with retail outlets. All rights reserved. Except for normal review purposes, no part of this magazine may be reproduced without the written permission of the publisher. Every care has been taken in the preparation of this magazine, but the contents are only meant as a guide to readers. The proprietors of this magazine are publishers not agents or sub agents of those who advertise therein. The publisher cannot be held liable for any loss suffered as a result of information gained from this publication ...to the second issue of the East Algarve magazine. Firstly may I say thank you for all your positive comments, the 1st issue has been well received, copies have flown out of the shops so quickly that we have decided to become a monthly publication from this issue. We are also introducing two new sections; a Focus on, this month being Olhão and a page or two on Ayamonte. Inside you will meet the new owners of the QM garden centre, discover the beauty of a natural swimming pond and get some inspiration for Valentines day, amongst our regular features. Remember, we are always looking out for people to write about and new ideas to tell our readers. Contact us on info@eastalgarvemag.com if you have any comments or suggestions, in the mean time, enjoy our February issue. Welcome...MAGAZINEEast Algar ve NEIL & EMILY RICHARDSON REMOVALS “Caring for your possessions is second nature and we strive to care for yours as if they were our own” TLM. +351 939 486 870/+351 939 486 807 Member of the British-Portuguese Chamber of Commerce Tel +351 281 963 191 Email: neilandem@sapo.pt Website www.ne-internationalremovals.comApartado166,8800TAVIRAREMOVALS&STORAGELOCAL,NATIONAL&UK Packing service • Mudancas e Armazenagem Page 2 info@eastalgarvemag.com Eastalgarve_Issue2.indd 2 28/1/09 12:17:11

CONTENTS to spruce up your home. 15THINGS TO DO Fun and games at the brand new Adventure park 16PEOPLE Meet the new owners of the QM garden centre. 19FOCUS ON OLHÃO A closer look at the developments around Olhão. 23GARDENING Algarves spring ﬂowers 24FINANCE The ups & downs of your money & investments. 26TECHNOLOGY Internet safety for kids. 28PROPERTY Make sure your home is best prepared for selling. 30ENVIRONMENT Is now the time to invest in Solar heating? 32VALENTINES IDEAS Gifts, traditions and food. 34SPORT Olhanense heroes! 36AYAMONTE Meet our neighbours. 38KIDS Just for kids!!! 39CLASSIFIEDS Free classiﬁed ads.32 13 Page 3 23816 Eastalgarve_Issue2.indd 3 28/1/09 12:17:40

Dear East Algarve Magazine

info@eastalgarvemag.com Postal Address: EN270, CXP797A, Fonte Bispo, bestTHELETTERTaviraOFMONTHEachmonththeletter,whetheritbethemostinteresting,funnyorinformativewillwinafantasticprize!Thismonthwearegivingawayarelaxingpedicure,sogetwritingandyoucouldbeourlucky VALENTINE’S BALL 14TH F EB .30 T IL 12.00 NLY €20 3 course meal with a choice of meat or vegetarian maincourse plus a bottle of wine, followed by live music.Find us on the EN270 near Santa Catarina, TEL 281 971 484 email info@qtfontebispo.com - website www.qtfontebispo.com LETTER OF THE WellCongratulationsWINNERMONTHtoSuefromCabanas.doneSue,yourlettergaveustheideatoFocusonOlhãothismonth. Eastalgarve_Issue2.indd 4 28/1/09 12:17:44

I am an English lady living in the Algarve for the last 22 years. I absolutely love this country. My home is near Tavira in the Eastern part of the Algarve. It would be very nice to meet other people who are on their own, like myself. It can become very lonely at times, so a meet and greet column would be very interesting for your magazine. Maybe also some hints on The Garden in the Algarve what to grow,or not as the case might be, wishing you all the best, Marianne Dear Marianne, Thank you for your letter, if we have enough interest in starting a meet and Greet group, we will look into starting up a Yahoo group network. In the mean time try www.argarveexpats.com It’s a great place to meet local people. Your chance to let us and our readers know your concerns and an opportunity to help.

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We have recently spent Christmas in Tavira and were delighted with the wonderful Christmas lights in the town including some on the river side . What a surprise to see council street cleaners at work on Christmas Day. However what a shame that there are residents who allow their dogs to foul the pavements and do not clear up the mess. Could not the Municipality impose ﬁnes on such dog owners? Perhaps Camara could supply free “pooper bags “ and place suitable bins around the town. I also note that grafﬁti is becoming more prevelent and hope the Municipality take action before it becomes a big problem and spoils a very pretty town. Mrs P Evans Stamford UK Dear East Algarve I wrote to you last month asking if anyone knew of a childminder, thanks to you we now have our daughter in a playgroup. Shane, Tavira Dear East Algarve I ask myself does Tavira really need a new shopping centre. The disruption is has caused me has been huge! The only good thing is that the new petrol station has very good prices which saves me a trip to Spain. Name & address supplied,Tavira email

Your views Dear East Algarve Magazine

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info@eastalgarvemag.com What’s on Your guide to what’s going on in the Eastern Algarve area in carnival season... Have fun! MARKETS Loulé Every Saturday of the month Estoi 2nd Sunday of month Moncarapacho 1st Sunday of the month Quelfes 4th and 5th Sundays of month Tavira 3rd Saturday of month Vila Nova de Cacela 3rd Sunday of month Castro Marim 2nd Saturday of month Sta Catarina 4th Sunday of month Page 5 New year ........................................ Jan 1st Mardi Gras ..................................... February 5th Good Friday .................................... April 10th Anniversary of the Revolution ....... April 25th Labour Day ..................................... May 1st National Day................................... June 10th Corpus Christi ................................ June 13th Municipal Day ................................ June 24th Festival of St Peter ......................... June 29th Feira de Boa Morte ........................ Aug 1st Assumption Day ............................. Aug 15th Festival of St Francisco ................. October 4th-6th Republic Day .................................. Oct 5th All Saints Day ................................. Nov 1st Festival of St Martin ...................... Nov 11th Independence Day ......................... Dec 1st Feast of Immaculate Conception .. Dec 8th Christmas Day ............................... Dec 25th 2009 BANK HOLIDAYS AND FESTIVALS Here’s your handy cut out & keep guide to the 2009 bank holidays and festivals (holidays in red), compliments of East Algarve magazine. It’s EasttimeCarnivalintheAlgarve Carnivals take place in towns and villages across the Algarve ei ther on Shrove Tues day or the weekend before. The parade is normally just the start of it with parties going on into the night! ● 20th: CarnivalChildren’s in São Brás de Alportel at 10.00 ● 21st: CarnivalChildren’s in Loulé at 15.00 ● 22nd, 23rd and 24th: Loulé at 15.00 ● 22nd and 24th: Tavira at 15.00 ● 24th: São Brás de Alportel at 15.00 FRIENDLYFOOTBALLPortugalvs. Finland February 11th, Faro Venue: Estádio Algarve at 20.45 Ticket sales: Associação de Fute bol do Algarve, Fórum Algarve and Garveture More information on 289 893 200 35TH CYCLE TOUR OF THE ALGARVE February 18th to 22nd. Starts on 18th Feb at 11.00 in Albufeira and ﬁnishes on 22nd February in Portimão. The event has 5 stages and there will be 23 teams of which 10 are Pro Tour.

700 WORLD CUP WARMUP IN THE ALGARVE They are based in the region between the 5th and 12th,of February Events are:Lithuania vs Poland in the Stadium of the Algarve at 7pm on Saturday 7th, Lithuania vs Andorra in Albufeira at 5pm on February 11. Wales vs Poland in Vila Real de Santo António.at 5pm on February 11th The word “Carnival” in the Milanise dialect, Carnevale means “the time when the use of meat is taken away”. The Carnival is precisely the night before lent began and during Lent, Catholics abstain from meat. DID KNOW?YOU 5

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PORTIMÃO SKYSURF PROTOUR 7th and 8th - 14th and15th - 1st Round of the Portugal Skysurf Challenge Cup simul taneously with the VF4 Portugal Cup 21st and 22nd - 1st Round of the 6th Portugal Freeﬂy Cup Event Location Portimão Municipal Airdrome Contact Information Federação Portuguesa de Paraquedismo e Câmara Municipal de Tel.:Portimão282470

info@eastalgarvemag.com News Did knowyouthat...

P ortuguese banks state that nearly 875.000 cheques were refused by banks, 75% of which were due to insufﬁcient funds in 2008. This goes against the previous signiﬁcant downward trend for 2006/7. A sad sign of the times!

In 1650 AD ~ The First use of tea in England, attributed to Catherine of Braganza, the Portuguese princess and queen consort of Charles II of England. Testing times! Big names and Bad weather at the Algarve Motor Park track

Page increaseonchequesBounced6the

A Portuguese Water Dog from Olhão could be come the future pet for the Obama family at the Wash ington DC residence, according to Carla Peralta an East Algarve breeder who has offered a puppy to the Obama family. This breed do not moult, so they are ideal for people with allergies like Barack Obama’s 10-year-old daughter Malia. Carla, who has bred Portuguese Water Dogs for six years, was contacted by the regional tourism board (ERTA) and asked if she would offer a puppy.”

It is hoped that her four-year-old female Portuguese Water Dog Coral will conceive soon so that if Barack Obama accepts her offer, the puppy will be on its way, but this all very recent and a reply has not been received yet. to last

A Portuguese Water Dog in the White House?

Plenty of top machinery was on view to the West of Por timão as Williams, Toro Rosso and Toyota also un veiled their 2009 cars. Disappointment at the last-minute cancellation by Ferrari either due to the adverse weather conditions, or the rumour that the latest F60 isn’t ready, did not spoil the event. The Formula One world champion Lewis Hamilton was at the Algarve Motor Park track near Portimão with fellow team driver Heikki Kovalainen during a week of testing of the new McLarenMercedes MP4-25 at the circuit.

months AlgarvianaViaNewsarticle

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T he Algarve Way is an alter native walking route which runs from the Spanish bor der at Alcoutim on the Rio Guadiana to Cabo de São Vicente and is provided by the Algarve Wednesday Walkers. The route is identiﬁed by painted white cistus Althoughﬂowers. both routes do coincide at various points, they also diverge greatly taking in different scenic paths of the Algarve. As a challenge, it compares with most of the long-distance walks in Britain, with the advantage that the weather is usually more pleasant. For information please visit www.algarveway.com or call 289 489 295.

The new Renault R29 was also put through its paces by double world champion Fernando Alonso and his team mate Nelson Piquet Junior. Williams’ Nico Hulkenerg, enjoyed a first outing in the team’s FW31 commented “it is just a shame that the wet conditions do not allow us to push our cars to the limit at the Themoment.”features of the race track itself was compared to Spa or Instanbul. Comments like “Great traction, very safe, fast as well as tight bends, challenging and interesting and one of the best in the world - McLaren and Williams are both scheduled to return for further technical fine tuning at the end of January and during the first week of February.

Update

info@eastalgarvemag.comTAVIRA:

Somethingﬁshy?

Tavira and Sao Bras take it slow!

The Gran Plaza is on schedule Tavira’s shopping centre is due to open on time but how will it effect local commerce? Competition is a doubleedged sword; on one hand the businesses appear to be attempting to win customers from each other, but the bigger picture is that as they improve their quality, the area becomes known for their product and people will travel to the area. Think of Leicester Square in London where you would go if you want to eat, or Villamoura if you wanted to book a trip. Local Council President Macário Correia supports this principle and states that the increase in visitors to Tavira will have a nett positive effect for the existing shop owners in the town.

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One of the trump cards held by the new Gran Plaza in Tavira is its proximity to the Spanish border and being the first shopping centre it is likely to attract Spanish tourists and shoppers, the other being that it will hold an office for locals to take care of paperwork such as ID cards and motor vehicle registrations similar to a post office in the UK. Located to the east of the city, the Martifer Group owned shopping centre will have 60 shops, 12 restaurants, four cinemas, open air spaces, a Continente hypermarket and shops on three floors, all serviced by an underground car park with space for 1,000 vehicles. The New Tavira Shopping Centre will bring them in; the challenge to traditional shops is to leverage the redevelopment of the historical centre and make the visit to Tavira a holiday experience, not just another shopping trip. According to our sources as of mid January only 50% of the units have been leased, meaning there may be a good deal in the offing! Cittaslow literally means ‘slow city’ in Italian and is an international network of cities and towns with 50,000 or less inhabitants who actively work towards improving the quality of life for those who live in, work and visit the area. It is just this type of initiative that will encourage discerning visitors to visit our towns and cities and appreciate what we have to offer although one of the main aims is to guarantee and maintain this quality of life for Traditionalresidents.cultural events and the heritage of these towns are shown to be priorities by the city mayors as they join this initiative. It is about protecting the environment, about promoting local goods and produce, and about avoiding the ‘sameness’ that afflicts too many towns in the modern world. One suggestion:- It is even more important now that the official camara sites should have a link for English speakers, as we now have an international audience. For further information, please visit www.cittaslow.net

TAVIRA, and São Brás de Alportel have become ofﬁcial members of the Cittaslow.

New working ports for the East Algarve T hey’re doing their bit for the local ﬁshermen, over in the east of Algarve. New working ‘ports’ are underway for Tavira and Olhão. All of the works are sensitive, in as much as they have an effect on the ecosystem of the Ria Formosa Protected Nature areas. In our area 10 million euros is to be invested in Tavira and 9.5 million in Olhão and completion expected by 2012. That’s a lot of money, so here’s hoping that the outcome will make it all worthwhile.

Economic crisis affects our cork industry Cork producers in the Algarve may decide not to harvest their crop this year as bark is remaining unsold from one year to the next. On a national level, 25 per cent of the cork harvested in 2008 has yet to be sold. The current ﬁnancial situation, as well as the fall in the price of cork, has made producers question whether it is economically viable to harvest cork in 2009. According to the regional association of forestry producers APFSC, the future is uncertain since producers cannot easily change to another type of crop because it is illegal to fell cork oaks in Portugal.

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cropper!

Au Naturel

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Rosie

creationstorytellspondswihershowsPeddleusnaturalmmingandustheofits

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W e attended a big flower show as vol unteer helpers for a plant conserva tion charity called NCCPG. Strolling beside the Long water, my eye was caught by a pond with a little wooden jetty in it; it was edged all around with long waving fronds of plants but, wait a minute! I could see someone was swimming in it as well! It looked so inviting on a hot sum mer morning, a haven of calm, even on a busy showground. This was my first swimming pond en counter! Later on that day, I took my husband along for a look but he (not being a plantaholic) was not immediately smitten - there was no way we could fit a swimming pond into our small town garden. A long held dream of ours was to upsticks to Portugal and we had the opportunity to sell our three sto rey Victorian house in the UK buy a neglected house with four acres of old farm land in the eastern Al garve. Finally, we could think about a swimming pond. Again, my hus band had some questions: “How do you stop yourself tangling into the plants? Do you need fish in it? How do you keep the water clean? What about the mosquitoes?” etc. Sometimes being an engineer can be a dreadful handicap! These questions were understandable as our previous water feature was a half barrel with a small pump and lots of cobbles! Help was close at hand - the Mediterranean Garden Society! A new branch of the MGS was be ing formed in Portugal and two of our fellow members run a business building swimming ponds (Piscina Biologica as they are called here). A visit to a mature swimming pond and pictures of other swimming ponds on their website, and my dear husband had all his technical questions answered. The plants are in a separate area to the swim mers, no fish are allowed at all, and the water is clean and low in nutrients because the plants are planted in sand and gravel. The mosquitoes do not like clean wa ter and all their natural predators do!! He was hooked and I just fell in love with the whole thing all over again, we could not wait to have one of our very own. We did not have a suitable site near the house, but who wants to look out on a vast expanse of cold blue water and concrete in the middle of winter? Anyway, I had already earmarked these for my garden ing efforts. In the end a favourite emerged after we had discussed it in situ with the experts. We were on our way at last! One of the first steps was to have

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the water tested which we would use to fill the pond. We have our own borehole so a sample was sent away for testing, chemical, bacteria and phosphate levels all had to be taken into account in order to introduce and establish the right plant community for our Sizearea. and shape was dictated by the site we had chosen as we did not want the pond to look at odds with its setting. The advice we re ceived was very helpful and fac tors which had to be taken into account included the number of people using the pond on a regu lar basis, wind direction, proximity of trees and aspect for maximum sunshine. The mature olive and al mond trees on the margins of the area provide an invaluable instant mature setting for the pond. Excavation dates were set and the machines arrived on time. Three days later, we had a huge hole in the ground and a very large pile of Thingsrocks!! moved on swiftly after that, adjustments for the final shape of the pond, deciding on a site for the solar panel to power the pump and filters and position of the jetty all became obvious and the hole was starting to look ready for the next stage, the liner! This is an amazing tough black material which a dedi cated crew arrived to fit and weld on site. They also made the float ing walls which separate the plant ed areas from that used for swim ming. When the first water started flowing into the pond we knew we were nearly there and as soon as the pond was filled, the plants could be settled into position. This was the really exciting bit as I had never been involved in planting so many moisture loving plants. A shallow ledge all round the pond

Web Site & Membership info. mediterraneangardensociety.orwww.g Eastalgarve_Issue2.indd 10 28/1/09 12:18:50

Tel.

the

Rosie Peddle

enabled this kind of planting. When Iris kaempferi produced its lovely dark blue flowers it was wonderful and gave an idea of what we could look forward in the future. The first swim was a very special moment, we enjoyed a celebratory dip with the pond builders – well, the wheel barrows were heavy on that very hot day in June!! The pond is now an integral part of our lives; I love being able to see the plants at eye level, watching for new growth, new flower buds and shoots. An unexpected bonus was being accepted as part of the along the water, or that the huge azure blue and smaller coral red dragon flies are flitting about or sit ting in the gravel on the edge hav ing a drink. We have even seen a chameleon nonchalantly standing in the gravel having a slurp! Logs placed across rocks give the local bird population access to the wa ter near the plants. Benefits over conventional swim ming pools or the sea swimming are: the water does not sting if it goes in my mouth or eyes, the wa ter is softer and has some colour in it, sometimes green sometimes brown, but always clear and invit colour of the liner and it seems to be warm very early in the day. Our pond is 180m2 and the plants are still young and establishing them selves. It is a constant source of interest and it is pleasant just to sit by it. In our currently parched land scape, the pond is indeed a ha ven of calm away from the house, amongst the trees. An oasis for the wildlife and for us. Portugal Branch of Mediterranean Garden Society Email. rosie@thebtf. 289 791 869

Rosie Peddle Contact for the

To read more free articles from Stephanie Philp, a trainer based in Auckland, NZ, check out her web site at www.metamorphosis.co.nz Health

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In an experiment in the USA, a teacher was given a group of under-performing students to teach for a year. Although the students were considered ‘slow’ the researchers told the teacher that the children were the crème de la crème; naturally gifted and expected to excel. The teacher accepted what she was told and expected top performances from every child. Her brain had being ‘programmed’ by what she’d been told and thus what she would experience. A part of your brain determines what you experience. The Reticular Activating System (RAS) at the back of the brain consists of a bundle of densely packed nerve cells located in the central core of your brain stem. Millions of bits of information bombard your five senses every second; smells, tastes, images, sensations and sounds. Obviously you can’t consciously pay attention to everything without going crazy! The RAS filters the incoming information So the RAS determines the type of information that gets through to your conscious mind. The information that gets through is programmed and filtered according to your expectations, your interests and what’s of value to you. Some examples perhaps? Common examples that illustrate this point are; thinking about buying a specific car model and then suddenly noticing how many other drivers have the same model. Being at a noisy party yet still hearing someone say your name. Being able to screen out a How expectations create your experiences.life Glass half full or half empty? Stephanie Philp tells us how a positive outlook on life really does make the difference. huge amount of distraction when you’re engrossed in a good book or project. Negative expectations focus your attention Your expectations focus your attention. If you expect someone to be untrustworthy then you’ll be watching and noticing anything they do or say that might indicate untrustworthiness. Yet you won’t notice anything that might indicate the opposite to be true. Your expectations affect the way you behave with that person. Your body language will change and you might be guarded in how you talk or in what you tell him or her. The person may sense this guardedness and feel uneasy. You interpret the uneasiness as distrustful behaviour!

Expectations can be positive or negative If you begin to consciously expect good things, then you’ll start to notice more of them. By expecting the best for yourself you set the ﬁlters of your RAS to focus and search for the good. By expecting only the best from others you set the ﬁlters of your RAS to notice the best. When the best is reinforced - you get more of it. That’shappenedwhatto the teacher The teacher who taught the under-performing children for a year expected them to be brilliant. During that time she noticed every way in which the children were brilliant and reinforced it. At the end of the year the children were transformed from unintelligent underperformers to become the creme-de-la creme of the school. All thanks to the skills and the positive expectations of just one teacher.

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10 Common Products Useful in Skin Care Yogurt Cleanser; bleach; for normal and oily skin. Oats - Oats have a softening effect on sensitive skin and helps to reduce the irritation caused on the skin by harsh climatic conditions or in the treatment of older skin as well as problem skin Honey - Reﬁnes pores; tightens skin; moisturizes; retards wrinkles; anti-blemish Avocado - Moisturizes, reduces appearance of age spots, heals sun damage and scars. Additionally, avocado regenerates and rejuvenates the skin. therefore is an anti-aging ingredient in skin care. Avocado oil has superior moisturizing qualities.

9 Take warm showers not hot

Health A Lura dos Livros

Rua Poeta Emiliano da Costa 16, Tavira Tel 281 323 199 A wide and eclectic range of new and used books in the English language, as well as a generous helping of used and collectable books in Portuguese and French. Also a wonderful selection of children’s books. Special orders and book finding service available. Gift certificates.

Lura dos Livros Rua Poeta Emiliano da Costa 16 - Tavira - Tel: +351 281 323 199 38 E-Mail: lizbeaupied@yahoo.com

Can’t sleep? Sick of popping pills? You’ve probably been there: tossing and turning at night, feeling grumpy, washed out and tired the next day. Next time you’re having trouble getting to sleep, try out one of these herbals remedies much gentler than the chemical alternatives, but for many people, still effective. These 3 are easily available and do work. CHAMOMILE TEA: Drink a cup before hitting the sheets.

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LAVENDER: Relaxes the nervous system, reducing stress hormones that often keep you awake. and also ups the production of relaxing alpha waves in the brain for deeper sleep. tipsCommonsensetogoodskin Regular sleep 2 Regular excercise Drink 8 glasses of water a day 4 Eat foods high in natural antioxidants 5 Wash your face after you rinse out your hair products and conditioner 6 Avoid excessive use of cosmetics 7 Cleanse skin every night 8 Use sunscreen everyday: as protection against incidental sun exposure.

CELERY: Munch on some; it’s loaded with sedatives.

service, competative prices!

T he allure of gold is irresistible. It has been used to adorn and decorate throughout the ages, and now gold is enjoying a renaissance. Beaten gold, gilding, gold inlay, gold leaf – the possibilities are endless. Ensure design success by using the golden rule – mix with colour, using subtle hints in every shade and finish, from gleaming to burnished. Whites and powder greys are the perfect foil, enhancing gold’s qualities without allowing it to dominate. Gold upholstery looks elegant and opulent if tempered with white or black accessories. For an imperial result that Napoleon himself would be proud of, bring hints of black and gold together, soften edges with textural pieces in mink, caramel and camel, or keep things refined with secret pockets of gold in unexpected places. The finished result is all about relaxed glamour with hints of easy luxe... The new golden age has arrived!

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Duck-egg blue is a classic choice & combined with flashes of chocolate brown can create a contemporary, elegant look. Cool duck-egg blue and chocolate are a decorator’s dream team; keep it fresh with an Oriental twist. Create a theme by combining chinoiserie-print curtains with embroidered cushions and dark wood furniture and flooring for an oriental edge. Ornamental birdcages and orchids complete the Paintlook.walls in duck-egg blue then go for flooring and upholstery in warm neutral tones, before adding subtle accents of brown. Try to keep accessories neutral, such as frames and ceramics; the chocolate accent will have more impact if used sparingly. reliable Eastern Algarve & Central 281 328 648 or 926 615 244 masterjoiner@hotmail.co.uk

MidasThetouch

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Interiors ColourDuck-eggtrends blue 20JOINERMASTERJOINER&GENERALMAINTENANCE...yearsexperienceofﬁttingKitchens,Floors,Doors,Decking,Locksetc. Quality

info@eastalgarvemag.comPage 14 ✤ Friendly service ✤ Highest quality paints ✤ Free quotes ✤ Algarve covered 289 841 896 mob 912 780 721stephenfreeman@sapo.ptemailProfessionalpainteranddecorator&withDecoratingquiltsTextiles Q uilts and tapestries are fabulous decorative items and make impressive wall hangings. They work especially well in rooms with high vaulted or cathedral ceilings and in stairwells where large pieces are needed to fill two-story spaces. They can be hung over furniture in the place of traditional artwork for a special touch. Stacks of quilts make wonderful decorating accents to the country/ cottage style. They can be used draped over a table or hung on accent furniture for impact. If you are hanging your textiles, be sure to carefully mount them so that the piece is not damaged. Also, avoid hanging them in direct sunlight, as the sun will fade and weaken the fibres. Interiors PANACHE INTERIORS PANACHE POOLS PANACHE ART INTERIORSERVICEDESIGN whether single room or total apartment/villa. FURNISHINGPACKAGES using quality furniture Prices from €8,000. LARGEOFSELECTIONART (originals, limited editions and prints) and framing service. QUALIFIEDTECHNICIANPOOL for all your pool requirements, we offer a fully certified service. For an individual quotation tailored to your specific requirements Contact us at interiors.art@sapo.pt Tel 927 829 930 Eastalgarve_Issue2.indd 14 28/1/09 12:19:05

info@eastalgarvemag.com Page 15 Things to do Braveland offers an adventure park and ‘summer camp’ that has something for all ages, but offers a choice of fun activities for the younger person. ACTIVITIES INCLUDE: Slides, Bouncy Castles, Traditional Group Games (Mine Fields, Human Ski, Treasure Hunts), Archery, Trampolines, Mountain Biking, Kayaking, Trekking, Paintball, Spider Webs, Climbing, Rappel, Low and High Ropes, Adventure Bridges... and much more. As you can see, there are choices of activities and challenges for youngsters (and not so young) There are also Day Care facilities on offer. You can reach Braveland by leaving the A22 at the Olhao junction (no. 15) and heading toward Moncarapacho. Look for the Parque Brave Land signs - it’s only a short distance. Tel. (00351)961040740 Braveland adventure park Fun and games for all the family at the Algarves latest adventure park The Overseas Insurance People > Your Insurance www.lloydwhyteintl.com Call now Make the switch, enjoy the difference 281 32 58 42 Part of the Lloyd & Whyte Group, established 1946. Lloyd & Whyte International Ltd is authorised and regulated by the Financial Services Authority in the UK. Specialist policies, designed for expats and holiday home owners... Home  Motor  Health We have moved! Visit us in our new Tavira ofﬁce Rua 1 de Maio 26B Tavira8800-360r/c >> Travel  Commercial  Marine  Funeral Plans VilaGale Lloyd & Whyte Eastalgarve_Issue2.indd 15 28/1/09 12:19:06

for

People Eastalgarve_Issue2.indd 16 28/1/09 12:19:21

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Malcolm and Isobel Simpson with young Joshua and Eilidh relocated from the beautiful West Coast of Scotland. Malcolm and Isobel bring with them a wealth of retail and catering experience after operating their own business that they sold at the end of 2007 and facilitated the move to the Algarve in January 2008. In recent years the Algarve has seen a massive increase in Garden Centers and hence with the new competition this left QM out of the main stream. In Malcolm’s optimistic view QM reﬂected the ideal footprint and foundation to resurrect a business possessing a new approach and dynamic. Malcolm’s personal remit and focus for QM is to basically take it away from being another Garden Malcolm tells us about the re-invention of the Quinta do Medronhal and his future plans Shop local People

Situated on the main road between Estoi and Santa Barbara De Nexe you will ﬁnd one the ﬁrst established Garden Centers in the Algarve. Quinta Do Medronhal, affectionately known as the QM Garden Centre was the original creation of a Garth Merellie and much of his lifetime was devoted to developing it. Garth sadly passed away in 2001 and QM remained in Family hands until January last year when the business transferred to new owners who have been busy reviving and bringing about some much needed change.

A Local

info@eastalgarvemag.com Page 17 People

Centre in the Algarve to more of a Country Farm Shop with a twist! Gaining an understanding of the location we realized that whilst in the country we were surrounded by expats and thought it would be well received if we could supply very identiﬁable UK Food brands and products at prices that are more in line with those found with a UK Supermarket! We also stock Local fresh produce like Fruit, Vegetables and Eggs all in a relaxed atmosphere with easy and convenient parking. In addition to the foodie side of the operation we have also imported a lot of non-food products to create an Aladdin’s cave, stocking something for everyone! Greeting cards, books, Jigsaw puzzles, craft and card making materials, tools, pocket money toys, pool and beach inﬂatable’s, outside clocks, the list goes on. Again, Malcolm has taken advantage of the Euro-

Eastalgarve_Issue2.indd 17 28/1/09 12:19:36

FARMFORMERLYSHOP

Tel. 289 999 613 Tlm. 963 099 224 Loule FaroTaviraEstoiM.A.R.F S.B. De Nexe QM Garden Centre A22 J14 If you have a small business you would like to feature in this section please contact us on info@eastalgarvemag.com.

People

GIFTS CARDS UK IMPORTERS BRING THIS ADVERT FOR A FURTHER 20% OFF ALL PLANTS THAT HAVE ALREADY BEEN PRICED TO SELL! kitchengarden

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Sterling exchange rate and has driven the prices down rather than up and actually introduced some value for money to products and brands that would normally demand a premium in the Algarve. Obviously we still stock plants, cacti, palm trees, ﬂowers, fruit trees, herbs, pots, hanging baskets, soil and horse manure, bark, decorative stones and garden ornaments with lots more to arrive over the next month or so. Again all the prices have been re aligned to reﬂect the all important value for money factor. Future plans are that we will be introducing a café serving simple light lunch’s afternoon tea, coffee with maybe some home baking, although in the meantime anybody paying us a visit is more than welcome to enjoy a café tier of coffee or a pot of tea on the house, while their children make use of the 18 hole mini golf course. In due course a key element of change to be applied will be the name and a new identity for Quinta do Medronhal, The Kitchen Garden! A place for just you or the whole Family, we are sure to have something for everyone and at prices to please! Look out for the new signs and promotions in the coming months.

The QM garden centre has been going through some changes... New owners, New look and New approach! We are now stocking a fantastic range of gifts, cards and craft ideas, jigsaws, books and much, much more at prices we feel are new to the Algarve! We would love to see customers past, present and new! Pop in to see our changes & join us for a complimentary coffee or a pot of tea!

Eastalgarve_Issue2.indd 18 28/1/09 12:19:47

info@eastalgarvemag.com

In this, our ﬁrst Focus on, we take a look at Olhão. Dispite it’s chequered past it would seem that there are some big investors conﬁdent that Olhão is the place for their substantial amounts of cash to be invested. Take for example the new shopping center, a gamble considering the nearby Faro shopping and also the soon to be completed Tavira shopping centre. Then there’s the Village Marina de Olhão which is to be accompanied by a 5 star hotel, all overlooking the Ria Formosa. Reputation aside, Olhão has a lot to say for itself.

Look at it’s location in relation to Faro and the airport, the unquestionable beauty of the Ria Formosa Park plus the numerous beaches within easy reach.

Exciting times ahead for Olhão!

Focus

Eastalgarve_Issue2.indd 19 28/1/09 12:20:00

on... Olhão

Some of it’s architecture is stunning and the place has a long and very interesting history.

info@eastalgarvemag.com AVENIDA 5 DE OUTUBRO RUA DO GAIBEUBARRETALARGO RUADOCOMERCIORUAVASCODAGAMA RUA DA MARQUITA RUA J SANTOS RUATEOFILOBRAGA RUA DO FINHEIRO JPATRAOPRAÇALOPES RUA PATRAO J. LOPES RUA FERRARIAS RUA LAGOA TRAVRUASOLEDACEJMENDONCARUADRABDELGADO PRACA RESTAURACAODA RUASOLEDADE RUA DOS MICANOS RUADOSOLPOSTO RUADR.PADUADR. MIGUEL BOMBARDA ARRIAGAMANUELDRRUA RUA 31 DE JANEIRO RUADEFARORUADESAUSEBASTIAO RUAOLHANENSE RUA PACMECORUAS.ESTAVIORUAS.JOSERUAS.PEDRO RUACARLOSDAMAIA RUSDRFRANCISCOFLOPES FABRICALARGODAVELHA RUA J FRANCISCO RUA ARMENIOS RUA ALEXANDRE HERCULAND RUASANTANARUANOVADOLEVANTERUAJ.F.P.LEONARDORUAEANESGILRUADACONSERVEIRARUAMANUELTOMASVIEGASVAZRUAMALBUQUERQUERUA JOAODEDEUS MARKET MARKET Page 20 1 2 3 4 5 Around... Olhão SUPPLIERS OF ALL HOME AND OFFICETOYSSTATIONARY,&GIFTS TRAV. MOUZINHO DE ALBUQUERQUE, 1 TEL./FAX 289 702 947 R.VASCO DA GAMA, 49-51 TEL.289 703 100 FAX 289 703 105 8700 OLHÃO SPECIAL OFFER ‘RODIZIO’ OF STEAKS PLUS DESSERT ONLY 12 EUROS Av.5 de Octubro, No.7 Tel. 289 722 739 8700RestauranteOlhão Vinhalgarviagarrafeira Large selection of regional spirits, Aguadentes, Medronho, Port and wine at excellent prices Telm. 963 571 863 Av. 5 de Outubro, loja 2 F 8700 Olhão 1 2 3 6 7 Eastalgarve_Issue2.indd 20 28/1/09 12:20:04

info@eastalgarvemag.com 5 DE OUTUBRO J.F.P.LEONARDO RUAEANESGILRUADACONSERVEIRA AVENIDADASFORÇASARMADAS Around... Olhão Serviços e Produtos Av. da republica, no47 r/c Esq. 8700-308 Gipysb international hairdressers Gerente Comercial Rua do comercio 11 8700-427 Olh tel 289 723 544 telm 966 163 gipysbpt@gipysb.com176 ODALISCAS DA arrakech ARABIANDecoration,EVENTSHennaanddancing Teresa Lagrouch Tel 914 778 824 teresalagrouch@hotmail.comemail Restaurante RIA FORMOSA Algarvian specialities The King of the Cataplana Av. 5 Outobro, 14/16 8700 Olhao Tel 289 702 504 OLHÃOPNEUS de Belmiro & filhos,l da Tel .289 702 561 Zona Industrial, Lote78 870 0-281 Olh ã o Friendly service & English speaking Pingo Doce EN125 Petrolstation PNEUSOLHÃO For all your CallproductsContactrequirements,opticalGlasses,lenses,cleaning&Eyetestsforanappointment. Centro Ortopedico do Sul Complete Orthopedic supplies Loja: Rua Manuel Martins Garrocho oja C-8700 Olhão Tel./Fax 289 723 863 Telm. 968 930 506 email: Centro.ort.sul@gmail.com251ENOrtopedicoCentrodoSul faro 4 5 6 7 Eastalgarve_Issue2.indd 21 28/1/09 12:20:21

info@eastalgarvemag.comPage 22 Around... Olhão

Next month we will be Focusing on Cabanas. If you would like to place an Ad in this section from only 25 Euros please contact us on eastalgavemag@hotmail.com or tel 281 971 484 W ith a scheduled opening date of March 2009, the Ria Shopping centre still has some work to do! Our picture above shows the site as of 25th Jan 09. An investment of 30 million Euros and the hope of creating 700 jobs this is surley a good thing for Olhão. Confirmed retail outlets include the supermarket Pão de Açúcar (of the Auchan group ), Box, Sport Zone, the shoe shop Loop, Book.It, Zippy and Worten Mobile. A pharmacy, hairdressers and a gymnasium are some of the other businesses that will be found there. A total of 80 shops will occupy an area of There9084m2.is however some concern surrounding the project. Local smaller businesses are obviously worried as to how this will affect them, one sweetener suggested was to cover the shopping street in the centre of town. There is also the thinking that the residents of Olhão would travel outside of town to do their shopping, and that people living on the outskirts would prefer Faro shopping or the soon to be completed Gran Plaza in Tavira. Although 1000 parking spaces have been promised, there are doubts as to whether the EN125 can support any more traffic! Due for completion early 2010, the Village Marina de Olhão promises to be a new start fo the city. The 307 apartments (T1’s, T2’s and T3’s) are currently over 65% sold, very impressive considering the current financial crisis, proving that it’s not only the developers who have confidence in Olhão. A representative from Porta Grande told us that although offers have been taken, it has not been necessary to offer substantial discounts The project took an incredible 11 years for approval. This is due to the strict rules and building regulations in place to protect the Ria Formosa national Park.Along side the the apartments and also currently under construction is a brand new 5 star Hotel. With 160 rooms, this project named “Real Marina, Hotel & Spa” is hoped to be ready for May 2010. This along with the apartments will surely breathe new life into the town’s shops, bars and restaurants, and should help revive the property prices in the area.

Eastalgarve_Issue2.indd 22 28/1/09 12:20:34

FloraPortugueseintheMarquis

Whenmaking.it comes to ground flora in the Northern region it is scarce in species compared to the more coastal regions, but Erica species such as Erica australis and Erica arborea along with lavender including the green lavender, Lavandula viridiscan, the crocus like Romulea bulbocodium and the champagne orchid, Orchis morio. The Barrocal in contrast has a rich flora and a large number of the regions 20 orchids can be seen here, but these flower in March and April so you need to explore early to see them. For those interested in these wonderful plants I have included a list of some of the species which is in the order they are known to Theflower.spring

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ﬂora has a vast array of species to be seen, some of which are native to Portugal whilst others have been introduced. The range of colours is fantastic, from the white of Cistus monspeliensis through to the yellows of the Anemone palmate and the Tulipa sylvestris ssp australis to the purples of the scabiosa atropurpurea, Gladiolus illyricus, Lavandula steochas ssp luisieri and the fratllaria lusitanica, the reds of the corn poppies, Papaver rhoeas and the electric blue of the Scilla peruviana. Mixing these with the trio of narcissus in white and yellows you can te the wonders spring ﬂowers

• Ophrys fusca • Orchis lactea • Acerasanthropophorium • Ophrysbombyliflora • O. vemixia • O. lutea • Orchis mascula • O. italica • O. morio • Anacamptispyramidalis • Neotineamaculate • Cephalantheralongifolia • Ophrys scolopax • O. apifera • Serapius lingua • S. parviflora • Epipoctishelleborine �� Mark O’Shaughnessy �� Ophrys bombyliflora Cistus Papavermonspeliensisrhoeas Explore the exciting colours of the springAlgarvesflowers Eastalgarve_Issue2.indd 23 28/1/09 12:20:38

Gardening

T he Algarve’s marquis has a rich flora, typically that of Mediterranean and Southern European species containing some of the most colourful plant communities, which are fully adapted to surviving the long, hot dry summers. Like the heathlands of northern Europe they are dominated by evergreen shrubs, though these are of a very different type to those found on the heaths. Many areas of the marquis reflect man’s interference with nature. Occurring naturally on the edges of the evergreen forest and the coast, but can be seen as the first stage of degeneration from forest to bare ground. The marquis vegetation is made up with geophytes and bulborous plants, which rest below ground during the hot summers to the annuals that flower in the spring setting seeds for the future generations and dense twiggy shrubs with small, leathery and often aromatic leaves. The intense sunshine builds up the levels of essential oils in the plants and on a hot summers day the air may be heavy with their scent. Most species are found in the coastal regions or the Barrocal with the Northern regions of the marquis having much less interest. One species found in the Northern region providing large areas of cover is the Cistus ladanifer which can grow to 1.5m high with large white flowers but like many of the Cistus species only holds its flowers for a few days, although it has had in the past a commercial value with the sap being used in the perfume industry and the wood being used as a fuel to fire outdoor ovens in bread

• January 1, 2002 - Euro banknotes and coins were introduced and replaced members' national •currencies.January1, 2007 - Slovenia adopted the single currency, becoming the ﬁrst former communist country to enter the eurozone, less than three years after joining the European Union in May 2004.

Eastalgarve_Issue2.indd 24 28/1/09 12:20:39

A fter a difficult start when the euro was forced to its knees against the dollar and for a short period traded around USD 0.82, the euro managed to initiate a lengthy uptrend, supported by central bank purchases in the open market. This uptrend lasted until mid 2008. The euro managed to force the dollar to its knees by reaching a historically high level at 160.40. However, the vision of joining - perhaps even outflanking - the dollar as the world’s preferred reserve currency is far from accomplished. The American dollar is still the world’s predominant reserve currency in spite of the American IT and financial bubbles.

Poland has set 2012 as its target date but that might be delayed, while the Czech Republic has not yet determined when it will join.

Euro milestones since its launch 10 years ago

• January 1, 1999 - The euro became the official currency for 11 European nations: Austria, Belgium, Finland, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, 12thbecame•transactions.accountingvirtualfirstcurrencyandNetherlands,Luxembourg,PortugalSpain.ThesingleexistedforthetwoyearsonlyasacurrencyusedinandfinancialJanuary1,2001-Greecetheeurozone'smember.

• Eurozone membership is obligatory for all new EU members, while old members Britain and Denmark (hopefully after a referendum) have the option of remaining outside the eurozone and Swedish voters rejected the move in their referendum. rekindled interest in joining the single currency area, but no new decisions are expected right away.

info@eastalgarvemag.comPage 24 Finance

• January 1, 2009 - The eurozone admits its 16th country, Slovakia. Of 10 countries that joined the EU in 2004, it is the fourth to adopt the single currency.

• January 1, 2008 - Malta and Cyprus were admitted to the eurozone, raising it to the present number of 15 members.

Romania has set 2014 as its membership target date. The Maastricht Treaty sets strict criteria for adopting the euro, and candidates must spend at least two years in an oftoERM-2mechanismexchange-rateknownasbeforejoiningtestthestabilitytheircurrency.Themainmembershipcriteriacoverinﬂation,interestrates,currencystabilityandcontainmentofthepublicdeﬁcitanddebt,togetherwiththeindependenceofthecentralbankinmanagingmonetarypolicy.–AFP–busrep.com

Hungary was aiming for sometime between 2011-2013 but has been hit hard by the global financial and economic crisis, making it difficult to meet membership criteria. The Baltic countries are hampered above all by soaring inflation, and amid the current economic slowdown their target dates could be postponed as well.

The euro’s exchange rate against the dollar hit an all-time low of 0.8230 in October 2000 and a record high of 1.6038 in July 2008. This chart uses German Dmark as a proxy before 1999.

Lithuania was aiming for 20102011, Latvia for 2011-2012 and Estonia for 2011.

After celebrating 10 years of the Euro, we take a look at its ups and downs, and highlight a few key moments.

Eastalgarve_Issue2.indd 25 28/1/09 12:20:41

Inflation, stagflationdeflation, It’s in the news everywhere but does this cloud have a silver lining?

info@eastalgarvemag.com Page 25 ALGAR V ESTNEMUCOD A PPROVE D Official documents IMPORTANT AL G A NEMUCODEVR T S APPROOVED fficial documents IMPORTANT AL G A NEMUCODEVR T S APPROOVED fficial documents IMPORTANT STOP THE HEADACHE! Let us handle your Tourism License for holiday rental purposes. Finally updated and complete information is Pleaseavailable.contact us with your questions and ask for a free quote. We also provide a wide range of administrative services to support the Expat community in dealing with the bureaucratic system of the Algarve. AlgarDocumentsAv.MariaLizarda Palermo 43b 8700-081 Moncarapacho Tel. (+351) 912 541 539 info@algardoc.cowww.algardoc.commALGARDOCUMENTS ALGARDOCUMENTS East Algar ve MAGAZINE If you would like to promote your business with the East Algarve magazine please contact us on FORFROMTHREEFORPRICESCOMPETITIVEorinfo@eastalgarvemag.comTel281971484DISCOUNTSMORETHANBOOKINGS50€,TO250€AFULLPAGE As an advertiser you automatically become a distributer and will be provided with a number of copies to issue to your customers. Finance W ith interest rates falling,housepricesdropping,rising,valuesjobs disappearing, Icelandic Banks crashed, and now British and Irish Banks are coming unstuck, can there be any good news extracted from these headlines? How can we beneﬁt from this scenario?

A more conservative view would be that anyone who can obtain a loan at these low rates and lock it in for a number of years is quite likely to beneﬁt in the long run. So it would beneﬁt anybody with a mortgage to talk to a mortgage adviser to review their options.

We have been faced with massive currency swings recently that we can ́t ignore due to the effect it has on our own finances. However, on a macro-economic scale (i.e. the BIG picture) it looks as if all currencies are being devalued at an increasing pace. We can see this most obviously by looking at the price of Gold against individual currencies. In the last few weeks, Gold has broken out to new highs against the Canadian Dollar, the Euro and the UK Pound. One of the reasons for this is considered to be the massive printing of currencies to pay for the bank-bailouts that are occurring; expanding the money supply is a precursor to inflation – always. The USA is Trillions of dollars in debt, and still borrowing 2 Billion Dollars a week to cover its balance of trade deficit. A cynical but probably correct view is that countries are attempting to purposely inflate away their debt!

As the currency drops, it costs less to repay the debt. If you believe that this is true, then you can ride the coat-tails of the governments by borrowing at very low interest rates (providing you have access to funds to repay it). In the worst case, runaway inflation or even hyperinflation (as per Weimar Germany) would virtually inflate away YOUR loan.

info@eastalgarvemag.comPage 26 W

Don’t tell people personal things about yourself. You never really know who you’re talking to online. And even if you think you know who you are talking to, there could be strangers lurking and reading your posts without letting you know that they are there. Don’t let your children put personal information, pictures etc. on proﬁles or away messages. It’s like writing your personal diary on a notice board. Some Websites, require registration before entering a contest. Before you give your permission, make sure you have read the Web site’s privacy policy.

For work or play, the internet is here to stay, here’s how to ensure your kids are using it safely.

hen our children surf the Internet, they are learning skills that they will need for their future. They become expert explorers in cyberspace, where they ﬁnd challenging ideas and discover new information.

PORNOGRAPHY AND POP-UPS

Email: PMT_East_Algarve@yahoo.co.ukwww.PMT-East-Algarve.com Eastalgarve_Issue2.indd 26 28/1/09 12:20:42

Parents over the generations have always known that children can get into trouble when they wander around aimlessly, doing it online isn’t any different. Allowing your children to spend unlimited time online, surﬁng aimlessly, is asking for trouble. Be approachable - Give your children the beneﬁt of the doubt. If you over react, they may not approach you Neveragain.ASSUME that your children think the way you Sharingdo. personal information, pictures, can put them at risk. Make sure your children understand what you consider personal information, and agree to keep it Sue 912988076 or John 915454401

While your children may know more about the technology, you know more about life. This needs to be applied to cyberspace. It’s easier than you think. Keeping your children safe online isn’t all about technology, it’s about common sense and communication.

PARENTS BIGGEST CONCERNS The 4Ps - Privacy, Predators, Pornography and PRIVACY.Pop-Ups

PREDATORS. Get to know their online friends, just as you would get to know their friends in everyday life. Talk to your children about where they go online, and who they talk to. Don’t just set up the computer in the corner of their bedroom, and leave them to surf alone. Take a look at their computer monitor every once in awhile; it keeps them honest. Online, everyone is a stranger. The 12-year-old new friend they have been chatting to may prove to be forty-ﬁve year old adult. It’s easy for our children to spot an adult in a schoolyard, but not as easy to do the same in cyberspace. Don’t start ﬁghts on line, it will certainly get a reaction from other people online - a bad one. If your child feels that someone is bullying them, they shouldn’t try to defend themselves or get involved in retaliation. It’s a battle they can never win.

Play it safe on the Technology

Your Property Management Team in the East Algarve ❋ Wanting to rent your property ❋ Not sure how to manage it? ❋ Why not give us a call? ❋ We may have the answers. FREE ADVICE OUR SERVICES COME EXTRA Tel:

www.kidzui.com

Their Pledge to Parents We are fathers and mothers who are creating ZooKazoo for our children and grandchildren and yours. We are building the ﬁnest online world we can as a safe place for them to hang out, play creatively, and learn to make their world a better place. We bring a wealth of skills, experience, and technologies to that end. We will check with you before we allow them to enter ZooKazoo and will give you the opportunity to determine how they can best participate in it. We will keep the information you share with us private in accordance with our policy and the law. We will encourage our children and yours to participate in making ZooKazoo more fun and more interesting. We encourage you to tell us how you think we could make ZooKazoo an even better place for them.

Household items Furniture Antiques Soft Furnishings

CHILD SAFE WEBSITES

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The Internet for Kids -Over a million kid-friendly games, websites, pictures, and YouTube videos reviewed by parents like you It has all the sites and games kids love and tons more. It’s a fun, safe and engaging environment that rewards curiosity and builds independence. Enhanced online and e-mail reports just for KidZui members are available so you can stay up-to-date with your kid’s online activities. Extra KidZui features just for kids, will unlock as they explore educational and entertainment content.

AUCTIONTAVIRA Saturday 21st February 2009 Doors open at

For more information:

items

before

10.00 am

6.00 pm ANYTHING TO SELL? Please

Opposite

There are sites available which are vetted by parents and teachers and are safer than most to use. Sit at their side while they compute when you can. It will help you set rules that make sense for your child. It also gives you an unexpected beneﬁt... you’ll get a personal computing lesson from the most affordable computer expert you know!

Eastalgarve_Issue2.indd 27 28/1/09 12:20:43

Technology

am Viewing

www. ZooKazoo.Com ZooKazoo is an online environment of imaginary and adventurous destinations where children can safely hang out, have fun, and make their world a better place Pictures Bric a Brac 9.00 10.00 Friday Auction to phone EMMA on 916 138 059/60 or bring your to our Warehouse on Monday or Tuesday before the Auction 10.00am to 5.00pm www.algarveexpats.com Tavira Gran Plaza Shopping Centre Vale Carangueijo, Tavira. conﬁdential online and everywhere else. Let them know that you want to encourage them to use the internet but safely. Sit with them occasionally in front of the monitor, after all games are fun for adults as well. By sharing internet experiences they will feel more relaxed and may approach you if they are worried or uncomfortable about anything they have seen or are being asked to do. Teach them what you know, and if you’re lucky enough…they may teach you what they know too!

am Auction starts

longer to sell properties.

info@eastalgarvemag.comPage 28 Property O

Times have changed and for sure it’s taking Robert tells us a few tips to make sure your property is marketed at it’s

best. EAST ALGARVE LIVE, INVEST AND ESCAPE GOLF PROPERTIES VILLAS APA R T M E N T S TO W N H O U SE S LPLOTSHV927 Covering the whole of the Algarve as independant real estate agents, we can provide you with unbiased advise when you decide to purchase a property and can introduce you to a wide choice of reputable mortgage banks, architects, lawyers, builders, chartered surveyors and interior designers We have been in business for over 12 years, finding the right property for countless satisﬁed clients. We currently hav e over 700 properties available online and would be very pleased to help you find your ideal home. If you a r e th e own er of a good qu ali ty proper ty and wish to sell, please contact us to ar r an ge an app oin tm en t Contact u s t o d ay: 2 8 1 3 20 2 8 1 w w w l a n d a n d h o u s e s a l g a r v e c o m T A V I R A R u a J o s é P i r es P a d i n ha 1 7 8 8 8 0 0 3 5 4 T a v i r a V I L A M O U R A N 1 2 5 B e n f a r r as, B o l i q u e i me 8 1 0 0 0 6 8 B o l i q u e m e AMI6232 PROPERTY MANAGEMENT HAPPY HOMES ALGARVE Happy Homes has since 2003 provided outstanding property management services and value to non-resident property owners. covering every requirement, Including Inspection, main tenance, administration,letting and marketing services, we have developed relationships we are proud of with reputable accountants, architects, local councils, builders and housing professionals. Let happy Homes ensure that you have the best possible support to maximize and protect your investment for a brighter future! Contact u s t o d ay: 2 8 1 3 20 2 8 3 w ww. portugal -accommodation . c om A brighter future h a p p y h o mes l d a R u a Dr. Parreira 1 37 next to Barclays Bank 8 8 0 0 3 46 T a v i r a Eastalgarve_Issue2.indd 28 28/1/09 12:20:50

tricks and

Make the most of your home to ensure a sale!

ne of the most important decisions people make in their lifetime is buying or selling a property. Preparation is everything, giving you an edge over other sellers in the marketplace which can really work to your advantage, particularly in a difﬁcult market. Firstly make sure your house looks its best. Clean thoroughly and apply a fresh coat of paint if necessary. If you have personalized your house to your own taste, it may limit its appeal to buyers, so redecorate using neutrals and de-clutter. In general buyers are interested in the property and are not interested in seeing personal photos. It stops them projecting themselves and their own lives onto your house. If you have pets, ask a friend or neighbour to check whether the house smells doggy! Ideally keep your pet(s) out of the way during a viewing as some people are allergic to them and they could prove very off-putting. Kerb appeal is very important too. Ensure your garden is looking its best. The approach to your front door should be clear and welcoming. Ask your agent(s) for advice and don’t be offended if you hear something you don’t like, remember it is in both your interests to sell your property. If you are not permanently living in the Algarve, ask your property management agent to have the house spruced up before viewings and open blinds or shutters to let in as much light as possible. Think about your prospective buyer? Do they want a holiday home or a permanent home? Is the next owner likely to be Portuguese or a foreigner? Some real estate agents are more geared towards the foreign market than others. You may choose to select one agency on an exclusive basis if you have a good reason to do so. Alternatively, don’t over-promote your property by having too many agents; it may look as if your property is difﬁcult to sell. Stick to 3 or 4 agents and if possible not all from the same town.

info@eastalgarvemag.com Page 29 EstradaOFFICE da Manta Rota 8900-038 Manta Rota Vila Nova de Cacela, Vila Real de St Antonio Officially Tel/FaxCompanyLicensedAMI7673281952820CONTACTSsarah@algarvemanta.pt00351911041862paula@algarvemanta.pt00351911041861We are an experienced team who offer a specialised service covering the East Algarve, the whole process of buying and selling is easy with our help. Our sister company Algarve Manta Property Management looks after all your maintenance and rental needs. FOR RENT This three bedroom property with private pool two mins on foot to the beach of Manta Rota. Price on request (Seasonal) SALES:RENTALS:www.algarvemantaproperties.comwww.algarvemanta.ptTOWNHOUSEonthesanddunesPraiadaLota,oceanview,privatepool,twobedrooms,fantasticvalue€250,000 MAIN OFFICE – E.N.125, Cevadeiras, 8900-024 Vila Nova de Cacela TEL: 281-951165 FAX: 281-951438 CABANAS OFFICE – (Waterfront) Ava Ria Formosa, Centro Comercial Loja 2, 8800-591 Cabanas de Tavira TEL: 281-370277 FAX: 281-370761 EMAIL belosantospedras@hotmail.com WEBSITE www.estealgarve.comLICENÇA No 504-AMI VILLA - CABANAS / TAVIRA - In need of “TLC”, type T2, semi-detached,w/several terraces, in small and quiet urbanisation w / access to s. pool, within walking distance to Cabanas, public transport, commerce etc, approx. 1 km from “Benamor” golf course. Price-Euros 190.000 SANTO ESTEVÃO / TAVIRA - In the countryside, approx. 2 kms from Santo Estevão, 6 kms from Tavira. Flat land w/ an approx. area of 2.800m2. Modernised algarvian cottage, type T2. Annex - old kitchen w/ bread oven and small roof terrace. Price-Euros 180.000 ▲ ▲ When marketing your house, don’t be tempted to over price. You’ll be losing time and valuable prospects when your house is above budget. In a market that’s trending down, it is important to get ahead of the curve. If your house is already for sale, check if it is priced competitively. If overpriced, consider lowering it but don’t over do it though! Even an attractively priced property can still take time to sell... Check if all the documents for your property are in order to avoid losing a sale. If you have an illegal pool, borehole or extensions, try to get it legalized. From the 1st of January 2009 your property will need to have an energy certificate. Not having one could cause a delay. It will not be the first time a prospective buyer changes his mind when there is a delay in signing a promissory contract because of missing and/ or incorrect documentation. Of course this won’t happen to you, you have shown you are serious about selling your house by reading this article and following its advice! If you have done all the above and you still don’t get viewings, consider having new photos taken by a professional. It is well worth the investment and can reduce the time to sell your property or avoid having to lower the price! If your house is difficult to sell, you may consider letting. If unsold, at least you are paid to wait, but remember your main objective is to sell your property. It would be pointless if you rented out your house only to find out in a year’s time prices have fallen further and your rental income pales in comparison to the drop in value. In the next edition we will talk about how to maximize rental income from your property. By Robert Bijker, Land & Houses Algarve – Yellow 8800RuaTel:www.landandhousesalgarve.comHomes.281320281AMINo-6232Dr.JoséPiresPadinha178,–354Tavira. Eastalgarve_Issue2.indd 29 28/1/09 12:20:53

info@eastalgarvemag.comPage 30 Environment

Eastalgarve_Issue2.indd 30 28/1/09 12:20:58

Continuing our discussion of renewable ener gy, we focus on Warm Water Solar Panels this month. Annually Portugal receives more so lar radiation than the typical output of 1,000 power stations, and Solar energy may be used more directly to provide domestic hot water. The average annual domestic hot water demand requires around 3,000 to 4,000 KWh per household; with a total annu al household energy demand of 26,000kWh on aver age. Even on cloudy days we still receive energy from indirect sunlight. The amount of solar energy reaching the roof of the average house would easily provide heating and hot water needs, though the energy avail able in summer is greater than in winter. A domestic solar hot water system is one which absorbs the sun’s energy and transfers it to a storage cylinder. It will not be the sole provider of hot water; it will complement a conventional system using gas, oil, electricity or solid fuel, but it will pre-heat water so that bills are drastically reduced. During sum mer months the system can pro vide all the hot water needed by a household. It is different from photovoltaics; solar hot water pan els don’t produce electricity, they heat water directly. Panels can either transfer heat to a separate pre-heat cylinder, or heat a twin-coil cylinder via the bottom coil. In a direct system, the water that passes through the panels is the water that eventually comes out of the hot tap. In this type of system, there are issues around the water in the panels freezing in winter (so they need to be drained) and lime-scale build-up; in an indirect system, the water in the panels passes through a heat exchanger (coil) in the cylinder and then back to the panels in a continuous loop. Antifreeze can be added, and there is no problem with lime-scale buildup. The two main types of collectors are ﬂat-plate and evacuated tube. Flat-plate collec tors heat the water directly, evacuated tubes contain a ﬂuid which evaporates at low tempera tures, and the resulting gas rises and condenses on a manifold, transferring its

Is now the time to invest in Solar heating? As the cost of fossil fuels rise, save money by going solar.

THE BENEFITS Solar hot water, along with photovoltaics, wind power, hydro, wave and tidal power and geothermal energy are renewable energy sources which don’t involve the burning of fossil fuels, and will continue to be available long after affordable oil has run out. YOUR OPTIONS Solar hot water is probably the most cost-effective renewable energy technology that you can install in a domestic situation in this country, with the shortest payback time. A DTI investiga tion into solar hot water sys tems in the UK from 1970-2000 found that a typical system will provide 72% of a household’s hot water over the course of a year (c. 15% in winter and 100% in summer). We can ex pect a much greater percent age provision here in Portugal. The options are evacuated tubes or flat-plate collectors. Installed prices for both are typically in the range €2500 to €5000. If you choose flatplate, make sure that the col lectors have a selective surface – a special coating that maximizes the absorption of solar radiation and minimizes re-emission; in the UK’s climate, selective surface flat-plate collectors are only slightly less ef ficient than evacuated tubes. However, there is more to go wrong with evacuated tubes, and there have been quality issues. Try asking the salesman for a copy of the product’s EN12975 test report, and re member that cheap doesn’t always mean good value. You can buy a system installed, self-build and install, or self-build and then have your system installed by a professional. Tax relief is avail able for systems (self-built or off-the-shelf) installed by a pro fessional.

SOLARPANELS4UUNISOLAR.Pt EN 125, Murteira de Baixo CP811H, 8700-121, Fuseta Algarve, portugal Tel. 289 798 121 Mobile 916 596 359 EDP GRID TIE SYSTEMS 100% Finance Solar Panels ∙ Solar Heating Wind Turbines ∙ Inverters Pool Heating ∙ Complete Kits FREE SITE SURVEYS 10% Discount with this Advert There are (cheaper) special systems for swimming pools, consisting of a large area of black tubing. If you have access to a computer check watch?v=sBAi_TVNaiwww.youtube.com/out:M Eastalgarve_Issue2.indd 31 28/1/09 12:21:06

info@eastalgarvemag.com Eastalgarve_Issue2.indd 32 28/1/09 12:21:12

Valentines

Valentine’s day is romantic occasion worldwide, here’s an insight into the different ways it is celebrated W e spend months preparing for Christmas which is only one day hugely celebrated, but we seem to let valentines day creep upon us, unless you are a newlywed,engaged or just extremely romantic. Most of us have busy lives and tend to leave the romance behind these days, what with ﬁnancial difﬁculties europe wide, it’s important to make time for the ones we love.

Page 32 Britian has provided the best-loved romantic verses associated with Saint Valentine. The sending of cards with romantic poems or saucy ditties and gifts of ﬂowers and chocolates is standard procedure throughout the entire country. It is also the time when females have the opportunity to ask males to marry them. In the United States of America, there have been many varieties of cards given over the course of the years, some of which have often been rude or even quite cruel in their humor. Many early American cards were imported from abroad, given the poor quality of American paper at the Thetime.

Giftideas

Here we have put together some ideas of how to celebrate a day to indulge that special person in our life and make them feel loved and appreciated. Whether it’s on a shoestring or something more elaborate, maybe our suggestions can give you some inspiration. We have some gift ideas available on line and have tried to include shipping costs whenever possible.

Danish valentine card is known as a “lover’s card.” Danish men may also send a form of valentine known as a gaekkebrev (or “joking letter”). The sender of this gaekkebrev pens a rhyme but does not sign his name. Instead, he signs the message with dots... one dot for each letter in his Inname..France, elegant greetings cards known as cartes d’amities, which contained tender messages, were given not totally as a Valentine but chiefly as a result of a fashion which was popular in England at the time In Germany, it has become customary for the young man of a courting couple to present his beloved with flowers on February In14.Italy, Valentine’s Day was once celebrated as a Spring Festival, to listen to music and the reading of poetry. In Spain, it is customary for courting couples to exchange gifts on Valentine’s Day and for husbands to send their wives bouquets of roses. In Japan, Valentine’s Day is celebrated on two different dates...February 14 and March 14. On the first date, the female gives a gift to the male and on the second date...known as White Day, the male has to return the gift he received on February 14. In Korea it is very similar to Japan but they celebrate not only Feb 14th, March 14.The Koreans have set aside yet another date... April 14, also known as “Black Valentine’sDay. Day is celebrated in Taiwan on February 14, but there is also a special Valentine’s Day on July 7 of the lunar calendar, based on an ancient Chinese folktale Many men purchase expensive bouquets for their sweethearts on these days. According to Taiwan tradition, the color and number of the roses holds much significance. For example, one red rose means “an only love,” eleven roses means “a favorite,” ninety-nine roses means “forever,” and one hundred eight roses means “marry me.”

Valentine´straditionsday

If you prefer the personal touch we have inspiration and websites to give you more ideas if necessary.

As we leave the memories of Christmas and New year behind, it’s time to focus on future events.

Goats cheese in ﬁlo pastry with a slice of apple and green pesto drizzled with honey Food

For 2 people 2 sheets of ﬁlo pastry 2 slices of goats cheese (± 1 cm. thick) 2 thin slices of apple Green pesto Mixed salad + dressing of choice honey Put the slice of goats cheese in the center of the sheet of ﬁlo pastry, place the slice of apple on top of the goats cheese and cover the apple with a teaspoon full of green pesto. Fold all tips of the pastry to the center and twist upwards (see picture) put both packages in a pre-heated oven (180°) for about 8 minutes. Take the packages out of the oven and place them on the bed of salad and drizzle them with the honey. Tim, S.B.

de Nexe Tel 912 243 220 www.mesadotim.com www.violetandblue.co.u k dispatch to europe suggest international signed for postage £3.30 on top of normal delivery Mycosts.1st dance 7” gold disc and photo presentation £99. www.needapresent.com delivery to europe £6.99 3 / 7 days delivery 0207 407 4821 accepts paypal. Intelligent wine chiller and warmer Tingling£79.99. massage glove £39.99 Cadburys share £34.99 Own a piece of paradise £29.99 Naughty bath towels £19.99 Orgasmatron trembler £17.50 His-hers key holders £14.99 Michaelangelo apron £11.99 www.theromantic.com a website for romantic ideas, recipes etc rent a hot tub for the evening www.notonthehighstreet.co easy to navigate. International delivery option for searching for gifts that can be delivered internationaly or see the ﬂag on the product page. Many items can be personalised. Reasonable delivery Crystalcosts. “art deco” perfume bottle Murano£18 glass heart necklace £38 . Personalised 12 year old malt whisky £59.45. During the “credit crunch” why not do something for free like make cards or vouchers saying “i-m sorry” or “meal of your choice”, “dinner made by me”, lets reminisce”, “anytime,anywhere”. Another idea is to make a memory poster using photos, old concert tickets, poems etc. info@eastalgarvemag.com Eastalgarve_Issue2.indd 33 28/1/09 12:21:27

Page 33 Lovers Parcel

Enjoy your meal! Recipe courtesy of Mesa do

SERVICES The club has had an outstanding season in the Carlsberg League Cup being the only 2nd Division side to reach the quarter-final stages where they were drawn against Belenenses, V.Guimarães and the mighty Benfica. 1,800 Olhanense fans travelled to Lisbon on the 14th January for what was to be a very special day. Little did they know when they left Olhão, that later that day they would be in the same stadium as the legendary Eusébio and Diego Maradona. Sixteen coaches packed with excited and noisy fans were given a police escort as the convoy approached the impressive Vasco da Gama bridge for the final 15 kms over the River Tejo and on to the magnificent Estádio da Luz.

The visiting supporters, waving their commemorative scarves, certainly made an impressive sight. The ‘Record’, the daily national football paper, praised the fans for their vociferous support which on occasions drowned out the home fans. The impressive pre-match flying display by the Benfica eagle as it soared around the stadium was worth the admission money alone and when Maradona & Eusébio were introduced to the crowd a buzz of excitement echoed around the vast stadium. Despite losing the game 4-1, Olhanense were the equal of Benfica during the first half and even had the audacity to take the lead after thirteen minutes. The home side took control of the game in the second period although the final score flattered them and at the final whistle the visiting fans were quickly on their feet to give their vanquished heroes a rousing SCovation.Olhanense, who are based at the José Arcanjo Stadium behind

E a s t algarve carpfishi n g www.eastalgarvecarpfishing.com www.eastalgarvecarpfishing.com PACKAGE B&B,VARIOUSHOLIDAYSFISHINGPACKAGESTOSUITALLYOURNEEDSINCLUDING,SELFCATERING,TRANSPORT,TACKLE&BAIT.FULLYESCORTED. DISCOUNTTRANSPORT,FISHINGESCORTEDDAYTRIPSGUIDE,TACKLE&BAITINCLUDED.PRICESSTARTFROM150EUROSFOR2PEOPLE.FORCONSECUTIVEDAYSBOOKED. TACKLE HIRE ALL TACKLE & BAIT AVAILABLE. DAILY & LONGER TERM RATES. FISHINGPRICESDISCOUNTSAVAILABLELESSONSFORALL.FORBLOCKBOOKINGS.FROM20EUROSPERHOUR. 00351 927 364 157 or eastalgarvecarpﬁshingemail@hotmail.comToenjoyanyoftheexperiencesbeloworformoreinformationpleasevisitourwebsiteorcontactShaneon:

Sporting clube Olhanense - pride of the Algarve Sport

distinct possibility. To see the likes of Benﬁca, Sporting and Porto battling against their local heroes is a mouth watering prospect. The team, managed by Jorge Costa who captained Porto under Jose Mourinho when they won the European Champions League in 2004, has a blend of experience and youth with midﬁelders Castro & Ukra together with defender João Gonçalves having represented Portugal at under 21 level this season. First choice goalkeeper Bruno Verisssimo is a native of Tavira.

info@eastalgarvemag.comPage 34

Sporting Clube Olhanense was founded in April 1912 in the small fishing village of Olhão. Football is the most prominent sport and 85 years ago the club won the Portuguese Championship. The club was the first from the Algarve Football Association to ascend to the top Division in 1941 but since 1975 they have been in the 2nd Division or lower. Currently top of the Liga Vitalis, the passionate supporters are hoping that this will be a season to remember with promotion to the top flight being a

Eastalgarve_Issue2.indd 34 28/1/09 12:21:29

Local heroes took on the mighty Benﬁca, our andWrightChristophermanwastheretellsthestory

Specialities: Home made soups, Salads, Fresh ﬁsh daily, Steaks, Cataplanas, Vegetarian dishes, Pasta dishes, Home made desserts, Irish coffee, Extensive range of wines & ports. Traditional Roast served every Sunday, Live Music Available for group bookings, large seating area by the river. *Please use entrance at rear of building due to roadworks. Rua Borda d’Agua da Asseca, 46-50 - 8800-325 Tavira Tel./Fax 00 (351) 281 323 165 E-mail www.beiroriotavira.cominfo@beirariotavira.com NOW under New Management The Mad Hatters Riverside Bar Open every day Noon till Midnight Sunday Breakfast 9.30 am till Noon NewcastleJohnGuinnessSmithsBrownBoddingtons Ciders MagnersStrongbowVintageBulmers The Ri Cervejas Importadas Old NewcastleJohnGuinnessSpeckedSmithsBoddingtons Ciders MagnersStrongbowVintageBulmers DomingServimosmeio-diaAbertodesde THE MAD RIVERSIDEHATTERSBAR Visit us at the “MAD HATTERS” by the military bridge in the centre of Tavira. Tel 00351 913 886 860 OPEN10amDAILYuntilLate SELECTED PREMIERSHIP, LEAGUE AND CUP FOOTBALL IMPORTED BEERS: Old Speckled Hen, Guinness, John Smiths, Newcastle Brown Ale, Boddingtons CIDERS: Strongbow, Magners Vintage, Bulmers Pub food served and all day English breakfast. Call to arrange early Tee time breakfast. McDonalds on the EN125, usually play on Sunday afternoons and in February will be at home to Sporting Covilhà and Varzim whilst in March the big local derby against Portimonense will attract a large following.Tickets can be purchased on the day for €12.50 or alternatively become a sócio member for €8 per month and pay only €3.50 on match days. If you want further information and would like to join the small band of Irish, Scottish and English supporters from the East Algarve then contact Chris Wright on 916 504 903 or email him at Wright@hotmail.co.uk.Christopher. Eastalgarve_Issue2.indd 35 28/1/09 12:21:50

OPENING DOORS SINCE 1990 ● Life Assurance ● Pensions ● Savings ● Investments Eastalgarve_Issue2.indd 36 28/1/09 12:21:54

For

In this, our second issue we are introducing a new section dedicated to our neighbours in Ayamonte. Residents of the East Algarve often visit Spain for many reasons such as cheaper fuel and the different variety of foods available in the supermarkets and restaurants to name but a few. Likewise residents of Spain regularly enjoy visits to the Algarve for all the same reasons we are here ourselves. We hope to be able to keep each other up to date on what’s new, where to go and what to do. So near but the cultures are quite far apart, so maybe we can help each other by sharing a few helpful key phrases or hints and tips about each others culture and lifestyle. your Portuguese mortgage, international pensions (QROPS) and straight forward ﬁnancial Western Costa de la Luz and Eastern Algarve Terry Vaughan on (0034) 637 118 199 or email Terry@mortgageshopplus.com NB. If you have recently looked in to QROPS based in the Isle of Man you need to talk to us!

advice in

Call

info@eastalgarvemag.comPage 6

janealgarveads@yahoo.emailcomorTel.0034627094770Ifyouhaveanycommentsorsuggestionspleaseemailusatinfo@eastagarvemag.comorTel.281971484 MAGAZINE

info@eastalgarvemag.com Page 37 W elcome. Over the coming months I hope to bring you some entertaining articles from the world of golf as well as keeping you updated with any local news & events. Please email me with your feedback & suggestions. Karl karl@linksgolfeurope.coBurns.m

Eastalgarve_Issue2.indd 37 28/1/09 12:21:56

Just How Difficult Can It Be? Weighing in at around 46 grams and approximately 42.5mm in diameter, this little devil is affectionately known as…the golf ball. So given that it’s a pretty small object & the initial target from the tee is usually thousands of times larger, then it shouldn’t be too difficult right? Mmmm…you’re thinking the same right now aren’t you? So if we think the Tee shot can be tough what about putting? The powers that be rule the hole into which said ball must go to score, measures 108mm in diameter which even by my poor maths, is more than twice the size. All the more amazing then that I often require more than 2 attempts to sink the little blighter when on the green & rarely do it in 1. Are you empathising? Well don’t worry because whilst we’re taking a statistical look at the game, it’s reassuring to know that only 3% of golfers are single figure handicappers! Think safety in numbers (97% of them) & you should already be feeling better, I am How did my induction into the wacky world of golf start? Well, as a lad of 11 years young I used to collect balls on my local driving range in sunny North West England. On my first day I was greeted by the Range Manager, a cranky old Scot called Billy. He grunted a few instructions, including watch out for flying objects (yeah, no kidding) & handed each one of us a solid plastic tube about 3 feet long. We were then told to crack on till dark. Now all we had to do was place the tube over the top of the ball & “plop” it in. Easy eh? Well not quite…you see if you didn’t get the angle of the tube exactly right, the ball would simply shoot off to the side - so it was quite easy to identify the “Rookies”. Sometimes it was difficult to tell if the ball had been struck from one of the driving bays or a plastic tube! It was a daunting sight for an 11 year old, looking out onto the range at hundreds of golf balls just waiting to be collected. Worst of all, just when you thought you’d finished, customers just got another bucket of balls & did it all over again! The job was somewhat akin to digging a ditch & being told to fill it again when you’d finished. My Father told me it was “Character building” I preferred “Soul destroying” Payment was £3 a shift & whadda ya know, a free bucket of balls! And guess who was sent out to collect ‘em…strange old world isn’t it? A final thought for all us golf mortals. Love him or loath him Tiger Woods hasn’t swung a club in competition since June 2008. How has this affected his world ranking…it hasn’t, he’s still No 1 by a country mile. See you again in March, Karl. lighter look at golf If you would like to advertise in is this section please East Algar ve

Page 38 Kids trickery!Triangle Move three matchsticks to make 4 triangles. Must not (Answeroverlapbelowright) YOU’REHAVING ALAUGHQ:youQ:Whatdoyougetwhencrossastreamandabrook?A:WETFEET!WhatdoyougetifBatmanandRobingetsmashedbyasteamroller?A:FLATMANANDRIBBON!Q:Whydidtheboyblushwhenheopenedthefridge?A:HESAWTHESALADDRESSING!Q:Whatdomonstersmakewithcars?A:TRAFFICJAMQ:Whatdosheepdoonsunnydays?A:HAVEABAA-BAA-CUE!www.mostfun.comPlayfreedownloadgames-puzzlegames,wordgames,actiongames,andmoreFamilyFriendlyFunEntertainmentforeveryone!Safenoviruses,nospyware Answers toTriangle COOLTrickery FACTS The noisiest land animal in the world is the howler monkey. You can hear a male howlers call from 3 kilometres (2 miles) away.! Things to do PEDAL KAYAKING Fun for all ages, the kayak centre even offers trial runs on Sunday mornings, should you wish to try kayak-ing before you commit. From Ilha de Faro’s Centro Nautico. A full day costs 50 euros for an adult and 25 euros for children. Tel. (0351) 289 703 269 for details! That’ right, just for kids... or for adults when no-one else is looking! Send us your jokes or anything else you think is cool enough for your own page! E-mail info@eastalgarvemag.com R W R M B U D G I E T W D Z P X X K Y D L M M F R L Z M W L I B R E G W R T P D W O G C J C Q N N T F T R R V U N N K W N G R A T L M E M S K H G J K T I B B A R K T E T Q I Z Z K D F T V T A G B O G P R Y N O P J M N N O E R O A T J K T L Z H Z S L L T D E J Q K C A T J K V D T O X N H A M S T E R M N F R I G I R M Y N M R P C G I U S H U H W G K J T K L Q S T E N G Q K Q Y Q K N R B H Q WORD SEARCH PET’S CORNER Words can go horizontally and vertically either way, but not Wordsdiagonally.may overlap but do not share RABBITGUINEACATTORTOISEPONYGOLDFISHBUDGIElettersPIG SNAKEMOUSEGERBILRATHAMSTERDOGTURTLE info@eastalgarvemag.com Eastalgarve_Issue2.indd 38 28/1/09 12:21:58

Free classifieds Page 39 CLASSIFIEDS ARE FREE Email us info@eastalgarveonmag.com PROPERTY FOR SALE Tavira, Algarve Portugal, Cottage with Pool 2 Bedrooms, 1 Bathrooms, Airport 25 kms Price €320,000 lisbethmarrs@gmail.com(euro) PROPERTY FOR RENT Silves Poco Barreto House overlooking new golf course with sea views 350 per month plus bills. 2 bedrooms lounge shower room and toilet plus kitchen. email magicjewellery@hotmail.com Long and short term property rentals in the Tavira region – selection of 1, 2 and 3 bedroom accommodation available. Contact:00351 289 798046 or email:- eastalgarveprop erty@yahoo.co.uk Tavira, spacious furnished1 bed apartment Tavira Garden long term rent Tel: 289 798 046 Quelfes, 1 bed luxury furnished apartment long term rent Tel: 289 721 361 Between Santa Barbara de Nexe and São Bras Furnished apartment to rent in rural Tel:setting,917 267 948 Tavira, 3 bedroom condominium house, pool. 900€ per month + utility bills. Tel: 289 722 409 Moncarapacho, Commercial, suitable for office/storage/studio.Totalinsidespace82m2.Covered terrace 50.8m2 plus garden. Views to countryside. Quiet location. 525€ per calendar month. Tel: 918 980 425 Sto Estevão, Tavira furnished 4 bedroom, 2 bath villa with solar heating, in peaceful area. Available from Nov. 650€ per month + bills Tel: 916 911 502 São Brás de Alportel, Real Estate EURO QUINTA Lda AMI2596 Tel: Tony 289 845 137/962 680 728 Email: eurovillas@clix.pt FOR SALE Citroen C5 HDI Estate UK registered 92k miles very good condition €3000, Sta Catarina Tel: 281 971 484 SERVICES Stephen Freeman, Painter & decorator Friendly service, Highest quality paints, Free quotes Tel 289 841 896 mob 912 780 721 email stephenfreeman@sapo.pt Garden Team, General maintenance, gardening, Villa management Tel Pia on 964 744 090 email pia@iol.pt “JANELAS DA ALDEIA - Serviço de construção civil, Lda. Located in Tavira, excellent service and competitive rates for all construction work. Please contact us for free advice and nonbinding quotes on: (+351) 966 782 621” Ceramic Tiling - kitchens, bathrooms, patios, floors and walls. 25 years experience including natural stone and slate. Tel John Dunlop 946103146 or 281328663 . Joiner & General Maintenance... Kitchens, Floors, Doors,Decking, Locks etc. Quality reliable service, competative prices! Eastern Algarve & Central 281 328 648 or 926 615 masterjoiner@hotmail.co.uk244 Bay-bee. baby equipment for hire. Tel: Hazel 934 665 057 ALDEDA, Supply of seasoned hardwood logs Mid-West Algarve 919 441 802 Mid-East Algarve 919 907 118 English spoken, Established 20 years Construction A.R.L Lda Traditional Portuguese style a speciality. Free quotations no obligation. Tel: Arlindo 289 794 696/914 905 653. email: arl-ida@sapo.pt Based in Fuzeta Handyman. Most work undertaken Tel: Alan 933 640 821 Window cleaner. Good Rates Tel: Don 927 139 198 Laundry/dry cleaning with pick up/delivery Tel:service289 109 896/962 619 820 Based in Olhão Clothing alterations & repairs Tel: 289 109 896/962 619 820 Based in Olhão East Algarve Building & Gardens. Prompt friendly service Tel: 964 508 128 Garden design and Maintenance Tel: Becky 281 326 304/912 492 246 BECKY’S BLOOMERS Based in Tavira The Plumber Tel: Mike Vickers 914 595 696 Printing, Publicity & Graphic art design. Tel: 281 325 191/962 012 105 ARTESILVA based in Tavira Acrylic Supplies Tel: 281 322 068 ACIMA DA ´MÉDIA Based in Cabanas Solar Safe Pool Covers Tel: Peter www.solarsafepoolcovers.com963346631 Dog Spa, kennels, dog sitting, Canine centre in Pechão Tel: 289 705 471/964 639 587. www.dogspa.com.pt Man with a Van Tel: Mark 967 890 058 Only €25 per hour Storage motorhomes, caravans, boats. Based in Moncarapacho Tel: 289 791 669/964 235 050. Satellite TV Specialist Sky Digital & freesat. New systems & upgrades. Problems solved by experienced Tel:technicianTrevor 964 721 714 Fancy Dress. Easier to rent than invent. SB de Nexe. Tel: Deborah 289 994 194 Computer Services based in Tavira. Tel: Ricardo 916 027 890 www.n-tad.pt Karaoke karaoke Jockey available for parties, pubs and clubs Tel 281 971 484 ACTIVITIES SARABAND DUO vocal/musical entertainment.Dinner dances/private functions/etc...now booking for 2009. Tel: 912149839 Sandie & Ray saraband. planetaclix.pt Ecotourism boat tours. Departure from www.natura-algarve.comOlhão. tel 918056674 Guitar lessons. Individual or small groups. Santa Catarina Tel: 926 615 233 Irish Music Session, trial evening soon near Sta Catarina. Musicians please phone to lodge your interest. June or John, 289 721 361 or 969 979 923 Quilting lessons. Interested in Quilting/ patchwork? Santa Catarina Tel: 281 971 484 Saturday shopping trips to Seville Four hours in the shopping centre. Min 4 -max 8 people. Have a girls “shop till you drop day”. Tell 960 170 789 or henrique@another-level-algarve.comemail: Portuguese Conversation class. Every Sunday morning 10 until 12, Quinta Fonte Bispo, near Santa Catarina. Tel 281 971 484 O Parque da Anita (Indoor childrens play area) Based in Olhão Available for parties. Tel: 916 691 050 HEALTH AND BEAUTY Organic food and natural cosmetics. Tel: 281 328 609/966 479 261 BETERRABA (left side of local market Tavira) The Bowen Technique Natural Healing for the whole body East Algarve Clinics Gareth Bullock Tel: 912 540 071 Are you struggling with an alcohol, drug or related problem? For free and confidential advice Call Sally on 918 601 365. Classical Homeopath for humans and animals. Contact:- Manuela Bussinger Dip. Telm:-Hom 696 840 295 or email:-manuelabussinger@yahoo.com WANTED Employment. Just moved to Tavira, Shane & Kim Allen, looking for work, anything considered, we have our own transport Tel 927 364 157/927 168 059 Babysitter/Au-pair looking for work in the Algarve. 3 years experience and I enjoy working with children of all ages.contact 289845749 or 927388214. Business Opportunity! Euphony: Opportunity to develop a significant income by becoming a Euphony distributor in the Algarve (telecoms and other services). Tel: David 936 626 103 E.mail: euphony.algarve@gmail.com info@eastalgarvemag.com Eastalgarve_Issue2.indd 39 28/1/09 12:21:59

info@eastalgarvemag.comPage 6 GUESTHOUSE, BAR & BISTRO QUINTA FONTE DO BISPO QUINTA FONTE DO BISPO For information and reservations please call us on 281 971 484, visit us on the EN270 near Sta Catarina, email info@qtfontebispo.comor see our website NIGHTONLYSUNDAYwww.qtfontebispo.comCARVERYEVERYSUNDAYfrom1pmAselectionofmeats,vegetables,roastpotatoesandyorkshirepudding.€10PERPERSONQUIZEverynightWednesdayfrom9pm EveryBOOTSALE4thsundayofthemonth STEAKNIGHTSFromWednesday18thFeb.ONLY10€ Large event hall available for parties, weddings and seminars. Professional kitchen facilities and sound equipment. Eastalgarve_Issue2.indd 40 28/1/09 12:22:04