Simply February 2019 Issue 34
Loulé, Almancil, Vale do Lobo,
Quarteira, Quinta do Lago, Vilamoura, S. Brás
Contents
11 4 WORTH KNOWING News, views, and good ideas
PUBLISHER Richard Bassett
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TAKE TO THE STREET Get those glad rags
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FAMILY MATTERS The Proud history of
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BEAN THERE Fancy a coffee? A proper coffee?
ART DIRECTOR Jake Bassett
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PROPERTY Stefan Humpenöder of Yellow
CONTRIBUTORS Anthony Martin Carolyn Kain Chris Wright Jan Hinze Linda Taylor Goncalves Stefan Humpenöder
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out and celebrate Carnival in style Pedro Côrte Real
We tell you where to go
Homes on the difficulties with long-term rentals
MEET PETER BOOKER In conversation with
the man behind the Algarve History Association
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GOING GOING GONE Getting into the
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MAKING A DIFFERENCE How Rotary is
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GET COOKING Michelin-starred chef Tom
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TIME TO GET SOCIAL There’s more to life
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YOUR RESTAURANT GUIDE Your choice
business of auctions
aiding the local community, and also fighting vital global issues Kerridge, serves up a cold-night comfort dish
than Facebook. Get up on the platform
EDITOR Susi Rogol-Goodkind +351 965 581 831 susi@rogol-goodkind.com
ADVERTISING +351 966 044 143 simplyalgarvemag@gmail.com DISTRIBUTION 6,000 copies monthly, distributed via 100+ quality retailers, shopping centres, restaurants and more within the central Algarve region.
of where to eat
FINANCE Currencies Direct on the Brexit effect BOOK ‘EM Favourite reads this month 44 NOT TO BE MISSED Time to spare? Here’s 41
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how to fill it – from art to music to golf
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SPORTS NEWS It’s all in the game. Golf tips
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EXPAT TALK This month, Anthony Martin
and football updates, from the pros turns on Amazon
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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. Unipessoal Lda
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News
WORTH KNOWING We keep you informed, entertained, and hopefully coming back for more. And we want your news, your views, charity and community updates, new products and bright ideas POST IT NOTES
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he Association of Municipalities Terras do Infante – Aljezur, Lagos and Vila do Bispo, plus Lagoa Council – are going ahead with an injunction to halt the closure of the CTT post offices in Aljezur, Praia da Luz, Sagres and Carvoeiro. Representatives from four municipalities met managers from CTT in Lisbon on January 14, and concluded that the “destruction and degradation of a public service will penalise the population, small and medium-sized enterprises, tourists and the foreign resident community.” The Terras do Infante Association stated emphatically that the current closure was “an attack on the viability of the area, particularly in low density zones, which will greatly impair the sustainable social and economic development of these localities.” An injunction, it seems, has proved to be the only option.
THE SEASON OF THE 60’S PRINT MIX
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eady for a wardrobe overhaul? We asked Marité of luxury fashion emporium La Dolce Vita in Almancil what’s in store for the spring/summer season. “It’s all about hippy, feel-good vibes,” she says. “A medley of florals, stark monotones, pop art motifs, paisleys and even stripes going every which way. The crazier the mix, the trendier the effect. Add your animal prints from past seasons, a headband, a well-worn denim jacket, and oversized sunspecs – funky and fab. In-your-face sexiness is out and swinging 60s London is back with a vengeance- think psychedelic prints and tie-dyed fabrics.” Love it! Shown below, how the brilliant Save The Queen label does it.
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News SHARPCARDS
THE TOP 10 MOST WANTED SECOND HAND ITEMS
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hildren’s charity ACCA has been asked to continue its sets of the quality greetings cards produced in conjunction with ArtCatto and six of the leading artists it represents. Sponsored by a host of supporters – The Conrad, 5-Star Property, VIP Chauffeurs, Curiosa, and Euro Finesco – the cards, which have blank insides, are €10 for a mixed pack of six. Call 965 581 831 for details. All proceeds go to the causes ACCA supports.
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rit property agent Good Move has compiled a list of the ten mostsearched for second-hand household items in 2018. If you are selling up here or moving to a new abode, bear that list in mind – you may find a demand for those things you no longer want. Good quality household goods can, of course, go through House2House, or Auction House Algarve but if you can’t sell them there are plenty of charities here that will be thankful for them. 1 Books - 12,100 monthly searches 2 iPhones - 9,900 monthly searches 3 Playstation 4 - 9,900 monthly searches 4 Sofas - 8,100 monthly searches 5 Bikes - 8,100 monthly searches 6 Wedding dresses - 6,600 monthly searches 7 Xbox One - 6,600 monthly searches 8 Golf clubs - 5,400 monthly searches 9 Watches - 5,400 monthly searches 10 Office furniture - 4,400 monthly searches
A TRAVELLER’S DELIGHT
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ften, hotel costs – and often formalities – simply don’t suit visitors on the move and on a budget. So it comes as no surprise that the Conii Hostel & Suites in Quarteira has attracted a big, and returning audience of clients. Opened just two years ago in a beautifully-restored historical building dating back to 1896, it is in the centre of town and boasts all mod-cons including flat-screen TV, free internet, indoor and outdoor lounges, a bar, communal kitchen and a breakfast bar. There are seven twin-bedded rooms, two rooms with
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four beds each and for the truly sociable, shared rooms for eight, six and four which have deep bunk beds that are curtained off for privacy, their own lighting, and outlets for charging phones, iPads and computers. For students travelling together, and young families, perhaps with a couple of children, this is the perfect accommodation offering. The average stay is three days and the cost – best checked on the website – coniihostel. com/en/ is hugely attractive. For further details call 932 628 830 or email info@ coniihostel.com
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FAST-TRACK LANES AT PORTUGAL’S AIRPORTS FOR BRITISH TOURISTS POST-BREXIT
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s reported by algarvedailynews.com, Portugal’s government has authorised the installation of dedicated UK Passport holder corridors at two of its airports to enable the smooth flow of post-Brexit holidaymakers. Prime Minister, António Costa, said: “Millions of Britons visit Portugal as tourists every year, and we have to ensure the flow is not interrupted.” The first two sites to be prepared are Faro airport and Funchal airport on Madeira, both of which will operate special facilities for passengers with UK passports. Costa also announced a raft of measures to help Portuguese businesses that may well be hit by the UK’s exit from the European Community if there is no lastminute deal, the so-called, ‘hard Brexit.’ A €50 million credit line has been set aside for the country’s exporters most likely to be hit by a drop in
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trade, and 60 additional Customs Officers are to be hired for post-Brexit border checks. In the UK, the Portuguese Government is to boost consular assistance for the estimated 400,000 nationals that may be concerned and affected by status and employment issues. The Government line for British residents in Portugal is that they will be able to retain their residence and other rights, including access to State Healthcare. Of the estimated 45,000 Britons living in Portugal, only 23,000 of them are said to be registered. Around 13 million tourists visited Portugal last year, but the number of British fell by a tenth due to Brexit fears and the poor exchange rate. As well as keeping British residents happy, the government is to launch a major promotional campaign in the UK with the aim of boosting visitor numbers.
LOVE AND FINE FOOD
urprise your better half with a romantic dining experience in the Conrad’s contemporary Portuguese restaurant, Louro. Executive Chef Osvalde Silva will be serving up a Valentine’s special – a 5-course menu that includes a flute of premium sparkling wine. €75 per person, plus beverages.
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News
VIEWPOINT
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t is estimated that there are over 45,000 British citizens living in Portugal and I would hazard a guess that a very high percentage (if not all), if stopped in the street and asked what they consider their status to be here in this country, would reply that they consider themselves resident expats. Fair enough, I considered myself an expat for many years, but what with the topic of immigration being bandied about, I asked myself a question. What is the difference between an expat and an immigrant? The answer is nothing, there is no difference, it is playing with a made-up word originating from ex (out of) and patria (fatherland) and is exclusively used, world-wide, to denote white western Europeans who live and work abroad. There are some who will differentiate between the two, postulating that expats are in the country temporarily whilst immigrants wish to settle permanently but I think that line is somewhat disingenuous. Remarque Koutonin, in the Guardian newspaper, wrote: “Africans are immigrants. Arabs are immigrants. Asians are immigrants. However, Europeans are expats because they can’t be at the same level as other ethnicities. They are superior. Immigrant is a term set aside for inferior races.” Sadly, I believe this is held to be true in many minds. Even as you are reading this, there are thousands of homeless, penniless people, marching through deserts, crowding into carts and boarding already overcrowded boats, all hoping for a ‘better life’. Do you think they will ever be referred to as ‘expats’? I also came here for a ‘better life’; am I different? Whatever our reasons for travel, the man in the rubber dingy of the coast of Libya and the man sitting on a Ryan Air plane from Luton are both leaving their home countries. They are emigrating. Does the sub-Saharan doctor with his universityeducated family think of himself as an expat when settling in Europe, and be regarded as so? I think not. But Brit retirees from all levels of society are expats, and being expats feel that they have no need to mix with the locals or learn the language. And, before you jump down my throat and shout about ethnic and religious persecution, wars, famine, tribal differences and those people from countries where their colonial masters decided that borders should be redrawn to suit their own ignorant and misguided ideas. This is not about drawing parallels or making comparisons between these poor souls and our own decisions to continue our pampered lives as before, but in the sun. No, this is about labels, unnecessary feel-good labels. I am an immigrant, as are all others who choose to move to a new country of residence. And I shall continue to refer to myself as such. Martin Goodkind
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AT HOME ON THE RANGE
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f it is time you treated yourself to a bit of iconic kitchen kit, head down to Jose Martins’ new AGABRAS showroom in the centre of Sao Bras, Rua Boaventure Passos 18, and discover the famous AGA and Falcon British-made range cookers. Jose, a highly-experienced factorytrained technician knows these brands inside out – literally – and his passion is infectious, as is the amazing choice of 16 colours in the latest AGA line-up… that has to be the kitchen designer’s ultimate dream. Falcon – the export branding for the popular Rangemaster collection, also offers a whole range of colours and finishing options. Of course, knowing that you can get the best buying advice and the opportunity to customize your purchase, as well as experienced after-sales service, makes this a done deal. I’ll have one in purple please. 917 812 155 / info@agabras.com
GOOD BYE TO THE €500 NOTE
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s of 28 January, 17 of the 19 national banks in the eurozone will cease to issue €500 notes (Austria and Germany are the exception and will hold off until 26 April this year). The Bank of Portugal will be collecting notes and destroying them along with those held in their coffers. It appears that €1m in €500 notes weighs two kilograms, ideal for transferring large amounts of cash in small packages. However, existing notes can still be used as a means of payment.
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om fr s n 5 Mi lé Lou
We buy and sell high quality furniture.
An enjoyable shopping experience with amazing choices at affordable prices. Why go anywhere else? Bedroom - Dining room - Lounge - Garden - Office - Kitchenware - Lighting - Soft Furnishings - Pictures - Mirrors - Objets d’art
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OPEN MONDAY TO FRIDAY, 10am-5pm TEL: 289 395 197 OR VISIT HOUSE2HOUSE.PT
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Party time
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TAKE TO THE STREETS Linda Taylor Concalves puts on her dancing shoes as the annual Carnival celebrations roll round. If you’ve not witnessed it before, plan to be there; if you have, then you’ll certainly be ready to party again
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n Pagan times, carnival celebrations marked the transition between winter’s end and spring, with rituals of fertility and the quest for abundance to be reaped in the ‘new’ year. Ancient Romans also celebrated Saturalia, expressing much the same desires for regeneration and natural balance. Much later, the followers of the Catholic church in Italy began the tradition of holding a wild costume festival right before the first day of Lent. Carnevale means ‘to put away the meat’ and the celebrations focused on food, as it was the last opportunity to indulge before the 40 days of Lent – strict diet started on Ash Wednesday. The tradition, and the partying that went with it, spread to Spain, Portugal and France and was then adopted by North America, The Caribbean and South America during the Empire-building 15th and 16th centuries. Anywhere the colonising nations were involved in slavery, African traditions had an enormous influence on Carnival. Parading through villages in costumes and masks was believed to bring good fortune, and Carnival traditions also borrow from the African tradition of putting together natural objects – bones, grasses, beads and shells – to create a sculpture, a mask, or costume. Feathers were frequently used by Africans in their motherland on headdresses and African dance and music traditions transformed the early carnival celebrations in the Americas, as African drum rhythms, large puppets, stick fighters, and stilt dancers began to make their appearances in the carnival festivities.
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Party time
Brazil, once a Portuguese colony, and Mardi Gras in Louisiana, are two of the world’s most famous Carnivals. While Portugal is responsible for introducing the concept to Brazil, over the years the latter has made it very much her own, especially in Rio de Janeiro, with its extravaganza of colour, lights, samba dancers, dazzling costumes, and partying on the streets. And what are now considered as trademarks of the Rio celebrations feature heavily in the Portuguese merry-making. Get ready Here, for the three days leading up to Ash Wednesday, this year 3-5 March, most of Portugal’s major cities will host parades and pageants with floats, blasting music, costumes and masks, worn not only by those taking part, but by on-lookers, too, swept up in the atmosphere. Possibly the oldest and certainly the most famous celebration is held in Loulé. According to some aficionados it is Loulé – not Lisbon or Porto, but little Loulé – that introduced Carnival to Rio. The locals turn out in force and visitors come from far and wide, often heading first for the pop-up costume-hire shops and stalls to buy the perfect prop and sparkliest mask. The streets are lined with party-goers, from babes-in-arms to great grandparents with zimmer frames; bars and restaurants are packed – especially those, like Avenida Velha which is upstairs and affords diners by the window an up-close view of the floats below. The procession up the main Avenida in the centre of town, starts at 3pm each day and runs for a couple of hours. The atmosphere is electric,
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the noise is overwhelming, and the laughter can be heard blocks away. Participants in the parades rehearse, make costumes and build floats for many months preceding the festivities and they are set on having the most fun possible, throwing streamers and sweets into the crowds, jigging and jogging to the beat. The dancing is a bit of a free for all, and that’s what adds to the fun. And each year brings a new theme – often with blatant digs at prominent political figures – and leaflets are handed out that explain who and why and what to expect. You have to be there to see it, but don’t go smart… the occasional throwing of water balloons and even fresh eggs, have become an accepted part of the action, especially when kids are doing the throwing. The procession may be over by 5.30 but the partying continues long into the evening. There is a small charge to go through the barriers along the Avenida The monies collected go to local charities.
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DG3379
Fully refurbished 3 Bedroom Penthouse
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DG3371
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History lesson
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FAMILY MATTERS Co-owner of the Galeria Côrte-Real in Paderne, Pedro Buisel Côrte-Real has a distinguished surname. He shares it with João Vaz Côrte-Real, one of Portugal’s earliest adventurers who, some claim, reached North America 18 years before Columbus. Carolyn Kain looks at the known facts
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ecent research into Pedro’s family tree indicates he is a descendent of João Vaz, an explorer rewarded by the Portuguese monarch for his discoveries. In 1474 he was granted vast verdant tracts on the island of Terceira in the Azores and appointed Governor of the southern section where he settled with his family. As Pedro explains: “Through my father’s first cousin I have been able to trace ancestors who lived on Terceira and the Casa do Capitão Donatario, the Governor’s residence built by João Vaz. Occupied by several generations of our family, some of the original structures are still standing. Over the centuries the Côrte-Real family returned to the mainland; some to the Algarve while others settled in Barcelona.” As interesting as Pedro’s background is the continued debate surrounding João Vaz. Did he reach America before Columbus and if so, where did he land? Pedro offers the known facts: “Within the sailing fraternity on the Açores, rumours existed that there was land across the Atlantic in the far north-west. Setting out to confirm this one way or the other, João Vaz came across a windswept shore. The cold sea before it was teeming with cod and he named the discovery, Terra Nova do Bacalhau – New Land of the Codfish. The fishing grounds were a valuable discovery but, more
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importantly for present-day historians, the discovery was made 18 years before Columbus sailed.” It has been asserted that João Vaz had come across Newfoundland; proponents of the theory back it up by pointing to Baccalieu Island just off Newfoundland’s northeast tip. “Some texts state that we were the first to discover Newfoundland,” says Pedro, “but others believe it happened eight years later when the next generation of Côrte-Reals set sail.” By the time the brothers, Miguel and Gaspar, made their voyage, the family was well established in Angra, the capital of Terceira. On his father’s death, Miguel, the older brother, took over as Governor and was living in Casa do Capitão Donatario, close to the hill fort and the island’s first hospital, both founded by his father. Later the hospital became part of the Misericórdia and, with its magnificent façade, it is one of best-preserved buildings in the World Heritage city of Angra do Heroismo. Nearby, Largo Miguel Côrte-Real and promenade Gaspar Côrte-Real, are permanent reminders of the family’s illustrious past. Despite being Angra’s most influential citizens, the brothers were adventurous and in due course – on separate voyages – both were lost at sea. “From what is known,” says Pedro, “after Columbus’s historic voyage, the Portuguese king wanted to find a Northwest Passage to Asia. Many prominent seafarers took up the challenge
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History lesson
including several residents of Terceira. One of them, João Martins, who had accompanied João Vaz on his earlier journey, sailed northwest but failed to find land. In 1500, Gaspar had better fortune taking a similar route and spotting a distant shoreline. We know today that this was Greenland but Gaspar – convinced he had found the sought-after passage to the east – named it Ponta d’Asia. Due to ice flows, he was unable to land but he returned the following year, this time with his brother and three caravels. On this second visit the sea was frozen over, forcing them to change course and sail onwards to Labrador and Newfoundland where – after several skirmishes – they captured 60 native Indians. At this point the brothers went their separate ways. Miguel journeyed on to Lisbon with two caravels and the curious cargo of human beings; Gaspar headed south, intent on charting the eastern seaboard of what we now know to be North America. A year later, when Gaspar had not returned, Miguel set off to find him; he wasn’t seen again. The brothers’ name has not been forgotten. Sailors in the vicinity of Terra Nova do Bacalhau often referred to it as Côrte-Real Land and at St John’s on Newfoundland a towering statue of Gaspar was erected in 1965. The frigate flagship of the Portuguese navy is named NRP Côrte-Real. But despite the grandeur of the name, the consensus remains that Columbus reached America before the Côrte-Reals. For Pedro, this conclusion makes no difference since undeniably his heritage spans the Atlantic Ocean from mainland Portugal, 1,500 km to Terceira and a further 2,500 km to Newfoundland. Galleria Corte Real 912 737 762 Open Thursday to Sunday 11am to 5pm
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Roasted
BEAN THERE AND GOING BACK The Portuguese are big coffee drinkers and there are bars and cafés on every street ready to serve up that bica or galao on demand. So why would a newcomer to the Algarve decide to open a specialty coffee shop… and right next to Loulé’s municipal market?
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ou would think that a professional barista from Holland would opt for a spot within the golden triangle and look to attract ex-pat clients, but no, Ilona van Meegen decided the bustling town of Loulé was ready for something different. And different her coffee shop certainly is. Bean17, at the side of the market, sandwiched between local butchers, fruiterers, and piri piri sauce sellers, is something of a surprise. “When I did my research, I found that no-one here sells fresh roasted coffee of the highest quality. What you can get is a very dark, almost bitter coffee that often tastes burned or ashy; the coffee beans themselves are not special – they are what chains like Delta, Costa and Starbucks use.” A barista who takes huge pride in her work and the product she delivers, Iona explains that it is not just down to the quality of the beans, it is also the way they are treated. “Different beans, including green varieties, allow the professional artisan to modify flavours and to play with end results, giving the expresso, cappuccino, and latte macchiato their own distinct personality and turning
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Opening hours Tuesday to Friday, from 9.30am-2.30pm Saturday 8.30am-2pm Breakast Low-carb option Greek yoghurt with homemade granola, fresh fruit and honey coffee-making into coffee art, introducing new tastes like chocolate and caramel or blueberry and apple.” Her own cappuccino is made of an espresso shot with freshly-steamed milk and a micro foam of milk – not a canister of whipped cream in sight! And her coffee has less than half the caffeine of the usual pastelaria coffee because it is 100% pure Arabica while others are Robusta or a mix. From the start Iona wanted her venture to be an experience. The décor is refreshing, calming and cosy, a contemporary take on vintage. You can sit at a big table and chat to your neighbouring indulgers, or find a quiet cosy corner all for yourself, or you can, as the working locals do, stand and sip at the counter. That locals have adopted Bean77 as their café of choice is interesting, and they are not only there for the coffee either. Iona’s homemade Dutch apple pie is famous. But it is not only the beans and the barista herself that make this place special; the roasting method, and the equipment used, play a vital part in the equation. One of Iona’s key investments has been in the best possible kit; the expresso machine by La Marzocco is regarded by the cognoscenti as the Ferrari of coffee machines. The beans themselves are roasted by a contact in Faro with special equipment and ground by Iona as she makes each cup. Thirty seconds is the max, she says, from grinding to the finished cup. No question, it is a long, long way from what you expect at your local café down the street. Robusta or a mix.
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Sweet treats The famous apple pie Banana cake Scones with jam and clotted cream Other eats Torrades, sandwiches, salads, veggie soup Mixed platters with a good wine And to drink? Espresso, americano, macchiato, cappuccino etc and specials like café brûlée (cappuccino with a topping of caramelised sugar and cinnamon) and café panna montata (americano with fresh whipped cream). Teas, including chai latte with Indian herbs. Hot chocolate from chocolate pastilles. Most popular coffee Colombian How much? €1 for espresso,€2.20 for a cappuccino Where Bean17 Coffee and more Mercado de Loulé, Loja 11 935 795 858 / Facebook: bean17coffee
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Property
PROPERTY OF THE MONTH
YELLOW HOMES Land & Houses Algarve Real Estate Agent since 1995 Tel: +351 289 301 294 Email: info@yellowhomes.com www.yellowhomes.com EN 125, Benfarras Boliqueime (opposite DHL)
AMI: 6232
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PROPERTY DETAILS
EXCLUSIVE LISTING: Modern light drenched 4-bed villa in peaceful and private setting yet positioned within a very short walk of Almancil centre simplyalgarvemag.com
• 4 bedrooms with fitted wardrobes • 5 bathrooms (3x en-suite) • Large entrance hall • Living and dining room with wood burning stove • Extensive terracing • Fully furnished and equipped kitchen with breakfast area • Pantry • Utility room • Large basement: Bar / entertainment area / discotheque / bathroom / spacious garage • Fully fenced plot • Electric entrance gates • L-shaped salt water
€795.000
swimming pool (approx. 10x6m) • External summer kitchen • BBQ • Double glazed windows • Aluminium shutters • Wood and granite flooring • SAT-TV • Broadband internet • CCTV (video intercom) • Wireless alarm system • Sound system • Air conditioning • Central vacuum system • Mains water • Construction size 455 m2 • Fully walled plot with 627 m2 land size • EC Class B-
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Property
LONG TERM RENTALS IN PORTUGAL
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n a weekly basis, our real estate company gets new enquiries from foreign and Portuguese customers regarding long-term property rentals; demand overwhelms supply, and the situation is the same in all regions of Portugal, not just the Algarve. Rentals of one year or longer are difficult to find, and also tend to be expensive. What are the reasons for this dilemma? In the past, Portuguese law was heavily weighted in favour of tenants and often discouraged new investors who feared that, as landlords, they would have difficulty removing non-paying tenants. However, in recent years a growing number of foreigners, as well as the younger generation of Portuguese, prefer to rent rather than to buy. Despite mortgage financing being available to many Millennials, they desire flexibility and do not like to remain in one location. At the same time, many owners prefer the short-term rental market as they want to use their property for their own vacations while enjoying the financially attractive benefits of holiday rentals. And tenants themselves are becoming more discerning and demand quality in the properties they are considering. But by investing heavily in the refurbishments of a property, landlords are looking for a higher return on their outlay which naturally means prices will go up. It must be remembered, too, that long-term tenants are price-driven whereas holiday rentals tend to be more flexible. The tax that landlords are required to pay on rental income from tourists is lower than that due on long-term arrangements. The effective tax rate in the simplified tax regime for a short-term let for a nonresident property owner is 8.75 % versus a flat rate of 28% for long-term rentals.
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Stefan HumpenĂśder of Yellow Homes explains the current difficulties
As a result of the lack of long-term rental properties, potential tenants are having to offer several months rent in advance in order to secure properties. In addition, salaries in Portugal are not particularly high and people are spending more than 60% of the average salary just on rent. What help is in place? The Portuguese government has started to take notice of this situation and focusing on ways to improve the property rental market. While these improvements will not solve the issues overnight, they are a helpful start. The key changes being implemented are: n Assisting tenants – the Portuguese Parliament has approved a procedure proposed by the Socialist Party (PS), which provides for a minimum duration of one year for housing rental. Contracts, which are signed for a shorter period now will have a minimum period of one year and if nothing is communicated to the contrary, they will be automatically renewed for a further three years. The new law will also make sure that during the first three years of the rental contract, the owner cannot oppose the renewal uness he requires the property for himself or for his children. n There have also been changes in the Alojamento Local (AL) law, which regulates short-term rentals (holiday lets). Councils may create contention zones, which will allow them to control the number of properties within the AL scheme. Councils now have powers to close down AL properties, if they are incorrectly registered or operating over capacity. n Condominiums will have reinforced powers to approve certain new regulations, and can set an additional contribution payment over the normal instalments, and require an owner to commit to extra liability insurance. The purpose of the new rules is also to help long-term tenants in avoiding unfair rent rises.
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n A new tax law, which reduces income tax for single persons with homes for long-term rent foresees a reduction in the current IRS income tax rate from 28% to 26% for a rental contract of two years or more, while for five-year contracts the reduction in taxes will be from 28% in 2018 to 23% for the following years. For ten-year contracts the reduced tax rate will be set at 14% whilst 20-year contracts will see it reduced to ten per cent. n The government intends to reward property owners who sign long-term lease contracts. For landlords who can guarantee that new-built properties will be used for affordable renting for a minimum period of 25 years with maximum rents to be defined by the government, the new law will provide additional tax incentives.
If you are considering purchasing a buy-to-let property and would like to speak to a member of our team, call us to make an appointment and visit algarvepropertysearch.com /algarve-portugalimmobilien.de for further information Vilamoura Office EN 125, Benfarras Boliqueime 8100 - 068 Boliqueime Tel: 289 301 294 / Fax: 289 301 439 Tavira Office Rua Dr. José Pires Padinha 178 8800 - 354 Tavira Tel: 281 320 281 / Fax: 281 321 901
GOLF PROPERTIES - VILLAS - APARTMENTS - TOWNHOUSES - PLOTS These changes can help to make the current situation on the rental market more sustainable. If you are interested in renting a property for a long-term period, take professional advice from your lawyer before signing a contract. Tips before renting Sign all the pages of the contract and read the rental contract from top to bottom; everything needs to be done in writing – don´t accept verbal agreements. The contract should specify in case of eventual repair costs who is responsible and therefore who needs to pay. Ask if your landlord or property manager lives nearby – this can help sort out problems faster. Check the condition of the property and if there are defects be sure to put them in writing to the landlord. Make sure that the meter readings are correct and paid off when you take over. Never pay rent in advance until you have visited your new home or have signed the contract. Property owners are allowed to receive up to five advances on the rent: three related to monthly rent and two more as a refundable deposit.
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GOLF PROPERTIES - VILLAS - APARTMENTS - TOWNHOUSES - PLOTS
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Ref: JGR Price €985.000 EC class D. Contact us! Our email is info@yellowhomes.com or call us on (+351) 289 301 294 Find out more info on our website www.yellowhomes.com
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People
MEET PETER BOOKER 24 24
If you are interested in history, and events that shaped the world as it is today, you will almost certainly have heard of Peter Booker of the Algarve History Association. Here’s your chance to get to know him simplyalgarvemag.com
When did you arrive on the Algarve and what brought you here? Just over 20 years ago, on 3 October 1998. The reason? Climate; escapism; disillusion with UK. Tell us about your property search – where, why and what you learned. My wife Lynne, a former headteacher, and I rented while the house was being built; we learned about water supplies; about heating. We found this location, in the quiet of the hills above Tavira, quite early in our search, and designed the house around our joint library. How many books did you have to accommodate? I’ve never counted, but it must be around 3,000. So no e-reader for you then? Not for me, though Lynne uses one occasionally. What were you involved in before, in the UK? Did you lecture? Do you come from a family of lecturers? There were no lecturers in my family – my father was a research scientist at Harwell. I was a history graduate, with a passion for the subject. But I worked with British Coal, as Human Resources Manager. Did you arrive in the Algarve with a plan for how you wanted to spend your life here? There was no plan… it just happened. When the house was completed, Lynne persuaded me that I could fulfill that passion of mine and research and lecture on Portuguese history. The group you run – how did you develop it and how did you attract like-minded people? The marketing is all done by Lynne. She is an expert at connecting with people, and my history group has been the beneficiary of that expertise. What are the aims of the Association? To grow, to meet like-minded people; to meet like-minded people of different nationalities and backgrounds; to avoid boredom and to keep ourselves busy and connected. How do you plan the content for your talks? I have about 150 lectures in my portfolio and investigate all aspects of Portuguese history. I now know which topics and which months of the year are likely to attract the best audience figures. I also have connection with the BHS in Lisbon (The British Historical Society of Portugal).
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Are your attendees regulars or casual droppers-in? They are mostly regulars, with some casuals brought by their regular friends. What’s the average age and nationality? We seem to attract every nationality... and Englishspeakers. Most of them are post retirement, with a few who work here in Portugal. It is a good mix. Guest speakers – do you seek them out or do they come find you? Usually, they come to us and ask if they can take part; some we seek out, and persuade them to participate. Where do you research detail? Mostly in Portuguese history books and also on the internet, in both languages. How far in advance do you plan your talks? We have a yearly programme which we set up in September for the year ahead. What’s coming up then? Among others, Tuna fishing, The Pepper Empire; The tragic History of the Sea; The Conquest of the Algarve. Which topics have pulled in the biggest crowd? Death and disaster work well. The battles of the Peninsular War and the Great Earthquake. What is the cost to attend? We mention that it is possible to make a voluntary contribution, and many people are very generous. That is enormously rewarding. What do you love most about life in the sunshine? The opportunity to make and meet friends of different nationalities. What frustrates you most? The misfortunes and minor irritations in life seem to go in multiples of three, and there seem to be more than there were in UK. Your favourite Portuguese dish, walk, time of day, beach, piece of music? In that order: Alheira; in the hills here with the Daisy Doggo; first thing in the morning; Barril; today, Four Last Songs (Richard Strauss). So is there a book of your own lurking there, just waiting to be written? Yes, more than one, and mainly about Tavira.
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Sell out
GOING GOING GONE!
So often, newcomers to the Algarve arrive with lorryloads of furniture from their previous home only to find they want something different for their new surroundings in the sun. Auctioning off those unwanted or unloved goods can free up cash for a bit of a spending spree
I
f you’ve ever been to an auction – or watched any of the television programmes about auctions – you’ll know that surprises are commonplace. All you need is the right punter who wants that particular item, and they’ll be happy to bid and buy. Mark Monkman and Tracey James were here, and looking at a number of business opportunities, including a restaurant and a café bar – which they wisely struck off the list of potentials early on. Then friends suggested they set up an auction house believing that the ex operational firefighter (him) and London banker (her), had the right skill sets and personalities to make their mark and fill the niche left by two previous contenders who had pulled out of the auctions market. The build up It was 2011. The duo did their research diligently, investigating different styles and modus operandi of various auction businesses, and were mentored
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by friends of the family who were running a highlysuccessful operation in Cyprus. Mark and Tracey opened shop the same year, catering to the local community and spreading the word through leaflets and flyers distributed at Sunday markets, car boot sales, car parks and the like and advertising in the local English-language newspapers and magazines. And for two years, they studied online catalogues and various bidding platforms as part of their development plan. By 2013, Auction House Algarve boasted a website showing colour images and descriptions of every item. Just two years later, auctions were live online, allowing clients to bid in real time from the comfort of their own home. The reach of the business grew too, with interest from sellers and buyers across Europe, Russia and the USA. In 2016, aware that the Algarve has more of a transitional population than elsewhere in Europe, Mark and Tracey decided to meet all needs by offering two auctions a month, in addition to its
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main live online auction. The first deals with goods pegged at a moderate price that, if not sold, will go into a following auction without reserve; the second is an online-only auction for lower-value or limited-interest items. The live auctions, meanwhile, are held on the first Saturday of the month, and the full catalogue of items coming under the hammer is uploaded to the website eight days earlier together with measurements, conditions, estimated and start prices. In 2018, the business became a licensed Portuguese auction house and invested in insurance with Hiscox, safeguarding clients’ goods. A duty of care not to deal in stolen or misrepresented goods is core to the licence and images and information about pieces that contain precious metals or stones are passed to the police for inspection. For buyers Like eBay, the Auction House Algarve system allows registered clients to pre-bid on items, and those bids are taken into account at the auction; helpfully, the bidding platform has a built-in emailing system which keeps you notified on lots that you are winning or have been outbid on. To register is straightforward. You can either pop into the auction house on the Sao Bras road and let them do it, or you can register yourself online where your application will be authenticated. Once registered, you will have your own log in details which stay with you for all future auctions.
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Sell out
For sellers The first stage, obviously, is to get your goods valued. The service is free of charge at the auction house, by appointment. Home visits can be arranged (sensible idea if you are looking to sell a big piece of furniture) and there’s a fee attached to this of €25 per hour. But you can send images and information in and get estimates that way. Several auctioneers’ tools are used every day by the company, including paid-for data collection sites such Worthpoint and artprice.com, information gleaned from other auction house sites, and case studies from its large reference library for antiques and collectables. And then, of course, there’s the valuable experience behind Mark and his team who, over the years, have met and worked with specific specialists including jewellers, diamond experts from Antwerp, clock specialists, artists, stamp collectors and more. So, you’ll get a pretty good idea, right at the start, what you could expect to raise when the bidding gets underway. And the cost involved? The charge for live auction sales is 20% of the achieved figure plus a catalogue fee of €5 per lot which includes images, description, measurement,
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estimated and start price, and translations from Portuguese to English. Transport of goods – large van and man – is €45 per hour. What’s is demand Items being auctioned are split into categories: Table top items, furniture, art, antiques, collectibles, jewellery, outside items, and white goods. Selling best right now, unsurprisingly, are one-offs and quirky items that add a special personality to their surroundings. Far less popular are the large mid-brown furniture items like display cabinets – sad because those of us of a certain age will remember the thrill of buying that heavy chest of drawers and polished sideboards that we believed would increase in desirability and value over the years as their patina also grew richer; today, family heirlooms they are not. Want to sell, buy, or simply see what on offer? Contact Mark Monkman, Auctioneer and Valuations Auction House Algarve Estr. de São Brás de Alportel, 8005-411 289 832 380 914 774 438 valuations@ahalgarve.com
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Good works
MAKING A DIFFERENCE Contrary to popular belief, Rotary is neither political nor religious and it is certainly not a ‘club’ for rich retired gentlemen. It welcomes prospective members, male and female from all walks of life, the only criteria being that they are willing to give up some time and expertise to help raise funds for the benefit of the less fortunate
R
otary was started in February 1905 by Paul Harris, a Chicago lawyer who invited professionals with diverse backgrounds to come together to exchange ideas to give back to their communities. There are now more than 33,000 Rotary clubs worldwide with more than 1.2 million members. Here on the Algarve, Rotary is an active force, with 13 area clubs. Almancil International Rotary Club (AIRC), chartered in June 2006, was the first International Rotary Club in Portugal to use English as a common language. The founding members came from seven countries; some had been Rotarians before moving to Portugal while others were new to the organisation. Given that many were not fluent in Portuguese at the time, an English-speaking Rotary Club was the answer, and the perfect vehicle to attract new members with the shared aim – to do something for their adopted country by helping the local community.
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The early meetings were held at the then Couleur France restaurant in Almancil, but for the past six years the Club has had a permanent home at the Conrad Hotel in Quinta do Lago where it meets for dinner on the first Wednesday of each month and for lunch on all other Wednesdays. The first fundraising event was a golf tournament and dinner with the specific aim of helping children in need in the Algarve. Since then the club has raised many thousands of euros for good causes. “We generally do not give money,” said current President, Brian Giles. “We receive specific requests from organisations which our Community Services Committee will consider and, once approved, will purchase and donate the items requested”. Who gets help Organisations for which the Club has provided help in the way of equipment have included UNIR in Loulè, which supports and delivers day care facilities for adults with mental disabilities. Funds were made
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Quarteira who stayed with families in Ibbenbüren, Germany, and 17-year-old Ionela Chiperi, also from Quarteira, who stayed with families in Cagliari, Sardinia; these students were sponsored by Rotary Clubs in Germany and Italy. The Almancil Club also sponsored a student from Olhão who went to Houston, Texas and, in return hosted Lexi Carley, also from Houston, who spent a school year in the Algarve living with two families.
available for eight of the adults to receive dental treatment, which was kindly provided by AIRC member Patsy Delgatto at her surgery in Almancil. For many years the Club has been associated with Associação Social e Cultural de Almancil, (known locally as ASCA) which delivers valuable services to the local community including day care and domiciliary services for the elderly. ASCA is one of the few exceptions where money is occasionally given directly but it is always ring-fenced for the purchase of specific items such as beds for the new residential wing for the elderly built in 2016 and, currently, equipment for the proposed new crèche. Young people are not forgotten. Each year the Club sponsors a number of students so that they can attend summer camps throughout Europe where they experience different cultures and meet other young people. For many students it is a lifechanging experience and they continue to maintain contact with the people they have met. The Club also participates in the Rotary LongTerm Youth Exchange Scheme. In 2016/17, it hosted Adrian Chang, a 19-year-old from Taiwan. Adrian spent a school year in the Algarve living with two families during his stay. He attended Escola Secundaria de Loulé where he studied Portuguese, maths, physics and science. At the same time, two students from Portugal were sent on long-term exchanges: 18-year-old Loredana Privilean from
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Food for thought For a number of years AIRC, together with the Rotary Club of Silves, has organised a cookery competition between students from schools across the Algarve with the generous help of Honorary Member and the then General Manager of the Conrad Hotel, Joachim Hartl, and his kitchen team. The finals of the competition were held at the Conrad under the supervision of the professional staff with the winning team being offered work experience at the hotel. This coming year AIRC is again sponsoring the cookery competition with help from the Conrad’s General Manager Katharina Schlaipfer and Executive Chef Osvalde Silva. And AIRC is currently sponsoring a group of children with learning difficulties related to autism from Escola Dr António de Sousa Agostinho in Almancil. These youngsters are being given surfing lessons to help improve their coordination and grow their confidence. Most recently, Club members recently attended a school year awards ceremony for pupils studying at Escola EB 2/3 Dr Antonio de Sousa Agostinho in Almancil. The ceremony, held at the beautiful Igreja de Nossa Senhora de Fátima in Almancil, courtesy of Padre George, was attended by proud parents and AIRC members. As an extra incentive to the students, AIRC past President, Clare Busbridge, decided the Club should award a prize to the pupil who had been most outstanding in overcoming personal or educational difficulties in the year. For the year 2017/18 the prize was awarded to David Martins Guerreiro. Recommended by his teachers, David had proved to be an interested, extremely committed and hardworking young man with strong moral values who overcame the difficulties he encountered in learning and achieved an excellent school performance. The final fund-raising event of 2018, organised by AIRC member Uschi Kuhn and sponsored by local companies, raised enough money to pay for 66 bags filled with gifts which were presented to disadvantaged elderly people in the municipality.
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To enquire about joining AIRC and to find out more about the Association,contact the secretary, Richard Campbell by visiting rotaryalmancil.org
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Good works
A team working at a polio-vaccine transit post at a toll plaza in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, northwest Pakistan aims to vaccinate children missed during routine immunisation campaigns on either side of the Pakistan-Afghanistan border
ROTARY INTERNATIONAL AT A GLANCE
Rotary brings together a global network of volunteers who dedicate their time and talent to tackle the world’s most pressing humanitarian challenges. Their work impacts lives at both the local and international levels, from helping families in need in their own communities to working toward a polio-free world. Rotary International also offers expanded service opportunities including: Interact – a service organisation run and sponsored by Rotary clubs for young adults aged 12-18. There are more than 12,300 Interact clubs in 133 countries. Rotoract groups – organised by Rotary clubs to promote leadership, professional development, and service among young adults aged 18-30. There are more than 8,000 Rotaract Clubs in 167 countries. Rotary Community Corps (RCCs) – groups of non-Rotary members who work to improve their communities. There are more than 7,500 RCCs in 80 countries, organised and sponsored by Rotary clubs. MEMBERSHIP SNAPSHOT Who Rotarians are the kind of people who step forward to take on important issues for local communities worldwide and come from a range of backgrounds – they could be doctors, artists, small business owners and executives. Where From Haiti and Greenland to Nigeria and Singapore, Rotary unites a truly diverse set of leaders from across the world. Currently, the largest number of Clubs comes from the United States, India, Japan and Brazil. The fastest-growing Rotary regions include Southeast Asia and Africa. What Rotarians contribute their time, energy and passion to sustainable, long-term projects in local communities across the globe. Projects focus on important issues like peace and conflict
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resolution, disease prevention and treatment, water and sanitation, maternal and child health, basic education and literacy and economic and community development. ROTARY AND POLIO ERADICATION Rotary is close to eliminating the second most widespread disease in history after smallpox, with a 99.9 percent reduction in polio cases worldwide since 1985, when Rotary launched its PolioPlus programme. In 1988, Rotary spearheaded the creation of the Global Polio Eradication Initiative with the World Health Organization, UNICEF and the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Polio eradication remains Rotary’s top priority. To date, Rotary has contributed more than US$1.8 billion and countless volunteer hours to help immunize more than two billion children against polio in 122 countries. Rotary will raise $50 million per year over the next three years, with every dollar to be matched with two additional dollars from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. Since Rotary became involved in the fight against polio, case counts have plummeted from 350,000 a year in 1988, to 30 in 2018. Rotary has a growing roster of public figures and celebrities participating in its ‘This Close’ public awareness campaign, including actresses Kristen Bell and Archie Panjabi; WWE superstar John Cena; supermodel Isabeli Fontana; Nobel Peace Prize laureate Archbishop Emeritus Desmond Tutu; action movie star Jackie Chan; boxing great Manny Pacquiao; pop stars Tiwa Savage and Psy; golf legend Jack Nicklaus; conservationist Jane Goodall; premier violinist Itzhak Perlman; Grammy Award winners AR Rahman; Angelique Kidjo and Ziggy Marley; and peace advocate Queen Noor of Jordan. These ambassadors help educate the public about polio through public service announcements, social media and public appearances.
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Simply delicious
Chicken and pearl barley soup The sky may be blue, the sun may be shining, but the evenings have a distinct chill. A warming soup that serves up a mingling of delicious flavours is perfect, says Tom Kerridge
Serves 6 670 calories per serving 690 calories with Parmesan
INGREDIENTS • 4tbsp olive oil • 1 onion, diced • 3 large carrots, peeled and diced • 3 garlic cloves, peeled and sliced • 4 celery sticks, diced • 2 courgettes, diced • 2 leeks, trimmed, well washed and diced • 2L fresh chicken stock • 1L water • A bunch of thyme sprigs, tied with string • 2 bay leaves • 250g pearl barley • 40g dried porcini mushrooms • 1.5kg free-range whole chicken, spatchcocked or quartered, skin removed • 200g cavolo nero, tough stalks removed, chopped roughly • 250g frozen peas • Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper • Extra-virgin olive oil, to drizzle • 30g Parmesan, freshly grated, to serve (optional)
METHOD
1
Heat the olive oil in a large flameproof casserole dish over a medium-high heat. Add the onion and carrots and cook, stirring often, for five minutes. Add the garlic, celery, courgettes and leeks and cook for a further five minutes, or until softened.
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2
Pour in the chicken stock and water and add the thyme, bay leaves, pearl barley and dried porcini. Stir and bring to a gentle simmer.
3
Lay the chicken in the casserole, season generously with pepper and simmer gently for one hour, turning the chicken over halfway through cooking.
4
Lift the chicken out of the broth onto a plate and allow to cool a little. Remove and discard the thyme and bay leaves from the broth. When the chicken is cool enough to handle, remove the meat from the bone and shred into bite-sized pieces.
5
Bring the broth back to a simmer and stir in the cavolo nero and peas. Cook for two minutes, then return the chicken to the soup and stir well. Taste to check the seasoning and add salt and pepper if needed.
6
Ladle into warmed bowls, and drizzle with extra virgin olive oil. Best served with grated Parmesan.
This tasty dish comes from Fresh Start (ISBN 9781472962805, Bloomsbury Absolute) by Michelin-starred superchef Tom Kerridge. Yummy photography to accompany the 100 recipes is by Cristian Barnett.
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Communicate
SPREAD THE WORD Social media, with its many guises, is growing at an incredible rate. But which is the best platform for you, and also for your business?
2.27 billion (yes, billion) monthly active users It’s truly astonishing. With an estimated 28% of the world’ s entire population logging into Facebook each month, this is the giant social media channel you can’t afford to ignore whether you want to spread the word about where you had dinner, or what beach you are sitting on, or get a business message out to a potential customer base. But while you can target your audience to the best of your abilities, you can’t guarantee they’ll see it organically, since so much content passes through the hectic Facebook highway. What you need are ‘likes’ and ‘shares’ – people who are happy to show your content on their own timeline, so other users connected to them will also see your post and share it… letting the cycle continue. Over 60 million users have a Facebook business page and 93% of those users use paid advertising (Facebook ads). Users spend an average of 35 minutes a day on Facebook and access it at least eight times a day. To post is simple: you upload a photo and a few words and you’re done. You can also get your posts to a wider audience, selecting the target group of your choice, and the number of days you want to boost to run. Facebook will contact you daily to tell you how the post is doing, the audience it is reaching, and the cost you have incurred. Most social media platforms link to each other
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so a post on Facebook would also be copied and placed on your Twitter feed – two platforms covered with one post…that’s a bonus! You do need to log on to each account regularly to read people’s comments, answer messages and of course to add new content. Doing this on your phone, while chilling out on the sofa in the evening with a glass of rosé in hand, is ideal. And Facebook Messenger makes you easily contactable. Of course you could join the legions of Facebook voyeurs who never post but constantly check out what others are up to.
1 billion monthly active users Instagram is photo and video-sharing platform (owned by Facebook), where hashtags are king, inasmuch as they allow you to ‘tag’ or mark your posts giving then a stronger chance of discoverability. Instagram is much more than pretty pictures with filters, though – you can add ‘stories’ to them, too. These act like a blink-and-you’ll-missit snippet, that only stays live for 24 hours, so it’s content that, well, disappears. Think of it as a way to regularly broadcast to your followers without permanently clogging up the more important things you want your viewers to see in your feed. It’s also worth noting that Instagram, like Pinterest – another photo-heavy platform – has a much higher female audience than male.
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336 million monthly active users Short, sharp, snappy – that’s Twitter. Limited character counts for each tweet mean you have to make every word work for you, but at least that way your audience sees exactly what you want them to see with minimum effort. We’re talking one or two sentences, here. Don’t ignore the power of images to accompany your tweets, though. You want to give people a reason to stop scrolling, pause and read your tweet in among the crowded throng. In a world where space is limited, a picture that tells a thousand words is pure gold currency. And hey, you can join the followers of, say, Donald Trump (55million), although his comments are small fry compared to the big-time attractions, like singer Katy Perry who has the biggest number at 100million.
250 million monthly active users A huge 81% of Pinterest’s monthly active users are female and that’s something you can’t ignore. Subjects and topics that attract female audiences will thrive here. Gender statistics aside, the fact remains, however, that Pinterest users (‘Pinners’) use the platform to gather information about to-buy products. So if you are in business, it could be your products. Pinterest is similar to Instagram in that it uses images to tell a story, but whereas on other social media platforms you use an image or maybe two to showcase a product, Pinterest ‘boards’ let you display a whole range of images under one heading. Users, therefore, get to see lots, rather than just a little and your ‘pins’ remain there, ongoing. For business, it is absolutely worthwhile investing the time in loading up multiple images and adding the required description with all the relevant key words, as this will boost you up the SEO rankings in Google. From the users’ standpoint, Pinterest is like having your own search engine. If you put in, say, swimsuits, thousands of images will come up with category filters. Click on an image and the details come up and then take the user straight to your website where all your products are on display.
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Dining out
YOUR ULTIMATE RESTAURANT GUIDE Every month we serve up your choice of eateries. Some are close by, others worth the journey, all tried and tested by Simply Algarve readers TASQUINHA DO LAGAR, Querenca Tom Worcester What a treat! We found it on leaving the delightful countryside village of Querenca, by following the cars heading in one direction. If you are looking for hearty country cooking this charming little restaurant, serves up good, non-fuss food, piping hot and freshly-made, including dishes of the day that are incredibly wellpriced – under €10 for a huge portion. It was my first experience of pig’s cheeks, but the helpful server insisted it was special – and special it certainly was, in fact one of the best stews I have had in a long time, and much appreciated on a chilly January day. Other specials that day were ossobuco, at €9.80 and fried lulas at €8.80, while regular dishes included a cataplana that the folks on the next table were thoroughly enjoying. Set in a small garden with a terrace overlooking the vast spaces of the rolling valley – summer months at sundown must be spectacular. The restaurant is distictly local and the décor is comfortable and homely. Whatever you have it will be served by charming staff who will be pleased, if you are unsure of the menu, to point you in the right direction and suggest a local wine to go with your choice. R. da Escola, 8100-129 Querença 912 730 795
SABORES DO INDUSTRIA, Loulé Gillian Catto I know somewhere to go for lunch that is truly an unexpected great food experience. I confess that the decor leaves a lot to be desired but you are eating with an interesting cross-section of society. The buffet of home-cooked hot and cold food is fantastic. In fact, as you line up with your plate at the ready you are looking up the line and praying that they don’t all take too much of what you already have your eye on. Where is this restaurant I hear you ask? Well, it is located on the main Industrial Estate road, on the road out of town towards the EN125 and Quatro Estradas. The owner is an amazing woman who works 24/7 to provide you with an array of different choices on this huge buffet. Eat as much as you like for little money. There is also a menu which is not for the faint hearted – this restaurant is about comfort food eating. However, there is a salad bar as well for those watching their weight. This is not a fine dining experience. It is honest, fresh good food, served with love by the Portuguese owner. Open from 8am till midnight, it could turn out to be the perfect breakfast haunt, too. Parque Industrial e Comercial de Loulé 4B 964 307 077
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CHÁCHÁCHÁ, Olhã Martina Kaiser Opened in April last year, this charming restaurant quickly became my favorite place to eat out in Olhão. The clever reuse of several old spaces and the creativity in every little detail in the interior give the place a special ambiance. As charming as it is inside, in summer you can also sit outside in the little lane positioned well away from the frontline car fumes. The menu changes daily depending on what’s fresh at the near vegetable and fish market and what chef Kevin and his crew feel like cooking. Every time I have visited I had something new, something different, always totally delicious, exceptionally flavoured and served by Sónia, the friendliest person on earth. I think my favorite has been a pumpkin puree on beetroot salad followed by a flash-grilled tuna steak. Or was it the green olive and cumin dip and the grilled breast of chicken? Equally difficult to decide is whether to go for the homemade brownie, the chocolate and raspberry cheesecake or the home-made orange marmalade cake with candied oranges dipped in chocolate as desert. All full of flavour, and free of gluten. Now I spilled the beans, it will be even busier this year. Travessa do Gaibéu 19 918 727 242
MONTE DA EIRA, Clareanes David Goode Leaving the Centro da Saude in Loulé, point your car in the direction of Querenca and follow the EN396 for just over four kilometres until you reach Clareanes. There on the right you will find, set back from the road, the little jewel that is Monte da Eira. This restaurant, owned and run by the charming Pedro, is in the converted stables of what was an old threshing mill. It consists of three rooms and a small bar, with lots of quirky decorations; in summer you have the choice of eating in the main restaurant or under the trees of the sun-filled terrace. As popular with the Portuguese as with the locally-dwelling residents of every nationality and the tourists who have heard the word, you need to book so that you don’t find yourself searching for somewhere else to go because Pedro’s place is full. Sunday lunch, especially, is packed, often with three or even four generations of the same family. Dishes are all of a high quality, classic rather than adventurous, and naturally vary with the seasons and daily availability. Starters include delicious sautéed prawns with ginger (my choice) or my wife’s favourite, baby mackerel in olive oil and garlic. When our daughter comes to visit she will only ever have the fresh goat’s cheese that is served with a blob of tomato salsa on the side. There’s a daily menu, a weekly menu and a specialities menu that between them have something for everyone be they fish, meat or pasta eaters. Oven-cooked duck rice or filets of bass on casseroled vegetables continue to be among our family favourites. Monte da Eira, EN396, Clareanes 289 438 129
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Finance
ARTICLE 50 DELAYED?
Staying on top of the latest currency news can help you time your transfers more effectively, so find out what you should be looking out for over the next few weeks…
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he pound has found support in recent weeks, despite Brexit uncertainty only appearing to have heightened in the past month. This upswing in Sterling has seen GBP/EUR climb from €1.11 to around €1.14 over the same period of time. At the same time, the GBP/USD exchange rate has risen from $1.26 to $1.28, although it also briefly plummeted to a 20-month low of $1.24 on the way. What has been happening? While it has remained volatile, the pound has consistently risen so far in 2019, largely on the back of diminishing fears of a no-deal Brexit. This comes despite Theresa May’s Brexit deal being overwhelming rejected by Parliament as markets hope that MPs will now exert more authority over the process – potentially pushing to stop Brexit altogether. Meanwhile, a run of gloomy data and fears that some of the Eurozone’s largest economies may be headed towards a recession has seen the euro struggle in recent weeks. The US dollar has also given up ground this month following a number of dovish signals from the Federal Reserve, with the US Central Bank now expected to adopt a more cautious approach to monetary policy in 2019. What do you need to look out for? Brexit is expected to continue to dominate the pound over the coming month, with a potential extension to Article 50 likely to propel Sterling
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higher. Much of the Meanwhile EUR investors pound’s recent could remain weakness has focused on been caused by data coming out of the PM Theresa May Eurozone, with delaying the any additional parliamentary signs of a slowdown or vote on her Brexit a more dovish deal... outlook from the European Central Bank likely to drag on the euro. Finally, the US dollar may come under increasing pressure this month, if fears begin to mount that the ongoing US government shutdown is dragging on US growth. Currencies Direct are here to talk currency whenever you need them, so please get in touch if you want to know more about the latest news or how it could impact your currency transfers. Since 1996 we have helped more than 250,000 customers with their currency transfers, so why not call in into our branch in Almancil or give us a call to find out more. For more detailed information, please contact Chantelle at the local office on 289 395739 or alternatively visit the website on.currenciesdirect.com/portugal and register to get regular updates on the currency markets. (Do mention that you heard about us in Simply Algarve magazine.)
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Simply Algarve is looking to add another member to the team. For over two years now we have been growing from the ground up and now it is time to take the magazine to a new level. To do this we need a commission-based salesman in the Central Algarve region
If you know you have what it takes then call us now on 966 044 143 SERVICES OFFERED! SELL YOUR: •Antiques •Collectables •Garden Ornaments •Architectural Salvage •Furnature FULL HOUSE CLEARANCES! Contact Mark on 914 774 438
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Good reads
BOOK ‘EM
On the shelf or on your kindle, here’s the latest collection of books that readers have enjoyed. Found a new favourite? Drop us an email
ANATOMY OF A SCANDAL by Sarah Vaughan Simon and Schuster This is an incisive book which gives an insight into how those from privileged backgrounds can manipulate the truth and run rough-shod over women. Sophie, married to charismatic politician, James – a rising star in his political party –has come from a comfortable family and her life has continued in this vein but begins to unravel when an affair comes to light and her husband is arrested. The drama in court is brilliantly described and, as the plot progresses, links are made with decadent university days and the abuse of power using persuasive charm which appears to enable certain characters to get their own way. The reader is gently led into a secret held by James and the now PM and only at the end is that secret revealed. Meanwhile, the prosecuting Queen’s counsel has her own agenda in endeavouring to get a guilty verdict. All the twists and turns hold the reader in suspense right to the end. Sarah Vaughan writes intelligently and sensitively of the heartache and dilemmas confronting women who have been sexually abused, and her description of emotions are forthright and thoughtprovoking. Angela Sobell
PEREIRA MAINTAINS by Antonio Tabucchi Canongate Books Italian born Antonio Tabucchi (1943-2012) was a contender for the Nobel Prize and won the Aristeion Prize for Sostiene Pereira in 1994. Translated as Pereira Maintains, this short novel describes Lisbon in 1938. The author´s love of beautiful Lisbon shines through the pages of this novel ...the sun beaming away and the sea breeze off the Atlantic kissing the treetops, and a city glittering, literally glittering beneath his window and a sky of such a blue as never was seen. Pereira, the unlikely hero, is a writer of cultural articles for the Lisboa magazine and he discusses his daily concerns with a photograph of his dead wife. Pereira is fat, and he drinks lemonade in the street cafés of Lisbon. We get the impression that he is lonely and dissatisfied with his life, and that he feels stifled by the censorship in Portugal. A chance encounter with an unemployed young man and his girlfriend changes his life forever. Monteiro Rossi is an idealist, uncomfortable in the fascist state, and unauthorised by his editor, Pereira offers him work on the magazine to write obituaries. Monteiro never manages to write anything useful but Pereira pays him anyway. Monteiro´s friend, the glamourous Marta turns up. She asks Pereira to dance and he danced the waltz almost in rapture, as if his paunch and all his fat had vanished by magic. This idyllic, glittering city hides violent fascist repression. People were dying and the police could do what they wanted. The city reeks of death; the whole of Europe reeks of death. Having challenged authority by hiring Monteiro Rossi, Pereira suddenly finds the courage to defy the whole censorship apparatus of the fascist state. This the story of a small and insignificant person who suddenly revolts against overbearing authority and finds personal freedom in his choice. Lynne Booker
A SPARK OF LIGHT by Jodi Picoult Penguin Random House Here is a writer who consistently delivers beautifully-wrought works that are totally original in their concept and compelling in their content. Her latest, will surely attract mixed comment simply because the subject matter invokes powerful emotions. It is set in a small Mississipi abortion centre where a doctor and nurse, potential patients and their friends, and an undercover pro-life campaigner, are held hostage by a gunman seeking revenge. Police hostage negotiator Hugh McElroy starts the conversation with the gunman when he receives a text message from his 15-year-old daughter who, to his horror, he discovers is one of the hostages. This gripping hour-by-hour narrative uncovers why each person is at the clinic on that particular day, challenges attitudes – including the reader’s – and questions the rights of both pregnant women and the unborn that they carry. Mandy Dayton simplyalgarvemag.com
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Agenda
NOT TO BE MISSED Each month, Simply Algarve brings you a hand-picked selection of the events on the region’s calendar. There are, of course, many more, but we will focus on the lesser-known and possibly more interesting. Got an event coming up? Email us with the details at simplyalgarvemag@gmail.com
THE ARTS PATTERN & SYMMETRY
Museu do Traje Sao Bras On till 27 March If you appreciate creative thinking and brilliant photography, don’t miss this inspirational exhibition from the Photographers’ Group of the Algarve. You’ll never look at certain everyday objects in the same way again. Entry is free but do join the Amigos programme for discounted tickets for various events and concerts; and check out the roster of classes on offer throughout the year – there are some fascinating options for those looking for a new hobby or to expand an existing interest. Language lessions are part of the offering.
NEW EXHIBITION
Vale do Lobo Art Gallery From 14 February Mid-month there’ll be another great new art show at this cool, contemporary gallery. At the time of going to press details were not available, but it is always worth popping down to VdL to check out what’s on.
THE NAMES
ArtCatto, Loulé On now Between now and the kick off of the big 2019 exhibition series, starting with Pedro Guimarães at the Conrad in April, you can see superb pieces at the gallery in Loule including stunning marble sculptures by Georg Scheele.
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BOHO BOATS
Corte Real, Paderne On now Hand-constructed from re-constituted tin drums, this is special-effect art translated into best ethnic antique industrial hand-tuned a wood lamp base. Some of the new special things.
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TALKS TUNA FISHING IN THE ALGARVE
THE WIND AND WATER MILLS OF YOUR MIND
Municipal Library Tavira Monday 11 February, 6pm Municipal Library Lagoa Tuesday 12 February, 6pm Retired literature and drama teacher, with a longheld fascination in wind- and watermills, Sue Cooper includes archaeological images, pictures from mediaeval art and references to romantic art, coupled with readings about windmills from early works of fiction and more modern historical fiction.
Municipal Library Tavira Friday 22 February, 11am Municipal Library Lagoa Tuesday 26 February, 6pm Peter Kingdon Booker examines the historical differences in tuna migration, and those days of plenty for the population of the Algarve, together with these days of paucity. He also looks at the method of capturing tuna and the species which are the targets for capture, the sites of tuna fishing, and whether it is sustainable, not only off the Algarve, but also in the rest of the world.
There is no set charge for the Algarve History Association talks. The Association relies on voluntary monetary contributions. The AHA is non profit-making and any money above and beyond the costs of running the Association and covering speakers´expenses, is donated to such charities as the Portuguese Red Cross and charities that support young people. The Association also provides support for the work of the Conservatório in Faro which enhances opportunities for young musicians.
HAPPENINGS CHOCOLATE WEEK
Municipal Market Loulé 9-17 February Dieters beware! A whole calorific week lies ahead as the covered market becomes home to local chocolate makers and taste-tempters. A never-ending choice of flavours to sample, along with slices of luscious multi-layered and iced cakes. Chocolatiers from all over the country will be vying for your attention.
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NATURE PRINTING WORKSHOP
Museu do Trajo São Brás de Alportel Six sessions, starting Monday 4 February, 1.15pm-4.15pm Using a variety of fresh and dried plants and preserved specimens such as wood, feathers, shells, and starfish, Rachel Ramirez will teach participants how to make prints directly from nature. The course will include how to mix colours and inks, the properties and uses of a selection of papers, composition, printing techniques, the formats and techniques for finishing and signing prints.
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Agenda
SPORTS HALF-TERM JUNIOR ACADEMY
Vale do Lobo golf courses 18-22 February, Monday to Friday 2pm-4pm Back by popular demand, the opportunity for your children to hone their golfing skills. With expert tuition and small group sizes there is no better way for children to learn the art, and the fun, of golf. But watch out, they could be challenging you by the end of the week! To find out more contact 289 353 464 or email golf@vdl.pt
VALE DO LOBO GUEST DAY
Ocean Golf Course 9 February Take part in Vale do Lobo Guest Days, an initiative that is open to Vale do Lobo Golf Club members and Proprietors Club members who can invite their guests to play at a special price of €50 per green fee which is unbeatable value. The offer is also extended to Vale do Lobo Resort and Welcome card holders (but no guests here). For further information contact 289 353 464 or email golf@vdl.pt
MUSIC AND DANCE DANIEL KEMISH
Teatro Lethes Faro Saturday 2 February, 9.30pm With a deep and husky voice, Daniel Kemish has a stage presence that catches the eye. The British singersongwriter will present a selection of his music and be joined by some invited musicians. In the past two years Kemish has performed over 250 concerts throughout Europe and the US, including performances at NOS Alive, Festival F and Festival Med in Loulé. The €10 tickets will also get you a special live recording of the concert.
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CARMEN Teatro das Figuras Faro Saturday 2 February, 9.30pm So you know the story and can probably whistle most of the arias. Gypsy Carmen meets exemplary soldier José from Seville who for love of the good – or not-so-good – woman, becomes a deserter, bandit and latterly a murderer, when she sets eyes on a certain attractive bullfighter. However, this is no opera, but a full ballet – and very beautifully wrought to Bizet’s music. TIckets are €25 and €26.
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PORTUGUESE PHILHARMONIC ORCHESTERA
Teatro das Figuras Faro Saturday 9 February, 9.30pm Founded in May 2016 by Osvaldo Ferreira and Augusto Trindade, the Portuguese Philharmonic Orchestra comprises a group of award-winning musicians, former members of the Youth Orchestra of the European Union and foreign musicians residing in Portugal who came together to create an orchestra that would be a reference and symbol of quality. Tickets €13-€15
JAZZ CONCERT
Museu do Trajo São Brás de Alportel Sunday 17 February, 5pm The Miguel Martins Quartet with Miguel Martins, guitar; Marco Martins, bass guitar; Alexande Dahmen, piano; and Alfredo Sarno, drums, will deliver a great session.
CONCERT
CONCERT, CONSORZIO DOLCE
Museu do Trajo São Brás de Alportel Saturday 16 February, 6pm 4 Cellos will play works by Couperin, Bach, Fauré, Saint-Saens, Hatton, L Anderson and Pachelbel.
Quintinha da Música Tavira Near Tavira Sunday 24 February, 4pm This exciting string trio with Alex Stewart (violin), Varoujan Bartikian (cello), Chao Bin (violin and viola) with music by Stamitz, Telemann and Haydn. Tickets are €25, details from lynne.algarvehistory@ gmail.com
THE 150-SECOND GUIDE TO LOULE Visit Youtu.be/DkQPd6sOLmA for a fast trip around the region and a fresh perspective on the sights to be seen. A well-spent couple of mins.
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Golf
TURN BACK TIME TO BE A GREAT PUTTER! Richard Hudson and Eddie Charnock, Algarve Golf Guru, PGA Professionals discuss keeping it simple!
T
hink about it – who are usually the most talked-about best putters in your golf club? It’s the juniors! Ask yourself why they are so good? They keep it simple – they have no thoughts about the mechanics, but focus purely on where they want the ball to go and how hard. They enjoy putting. Why? Because they see the ball going in the hole and an opportunity to get a par or birdie to lower their handicap. They trust in what they see when reading a putt, sometimes not bothering but just aiming straight for the hole and usually hitting the putt hard enough to take out any chance of borrow. If a putt misses they don’t refer back to it in any way. No... they think about the next hole and the next putt being an opportunity for them to lower their score. They putt with confidence, no negative thoughts,
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if they do three putt it is usually because they have been too aggressive, and certainly not negative. When they are on the practice putting green they usually play games against their friends or using two balls become Rickie Fowler and Rory McIlroy playing a match against each other or putting on their own, imagining they have putts to win the Open or the Masters. Pure fun with a competitive edge comes to mind! So next time you are struggling with your putting we suggest you think back to your junior golf days when the putting green really was a relaxed and social area! If you would like to book you a golf lesson or discuss any other golfing needs with Richard Hudson or Eddie Charnock at Pestana Vila Sol you can find them on their website algarvegolfguru.com or email sales@algarvegolfguru.com. (Mention you read about them in Simply Algarve magazine.)
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SPORTS NEWS
Brought to you by Chris Wright
Portimonense flying high
A the beginning of January Benfica arrived in the Algarve on the back of five consecutive Primeira Liga victories as their supporters doubled the average gate at the Portimão Municipal Stadium. Portimonense, who had already beaten Sporting Lisbon, shocked the Eagles with a 2-0 win, thanks to first-half own goals from Rúben Dias and Jardel. Just 72 hours later Portimonense lost 2-1 in Madeira against Marìtimo but bounced back five days later when they held second placed SC Braga to draw thanks to a Wellington goal after just three minutes. A successful month was capped by a two goal victory in Porto against Boavista with that man Wellington grabbing both the goals. A top-half finish is a distinct possibility for Portimonense who continue to confound critics with their refreshing style of attacking play. There are upcoming home games against Rio Ave on 9 February and CD Aves on the 23rd.
Casas do Benfica According to a study done by professors Luís Reto and Jorge de Sá, with the stamp of approval by the Instituto Nacional de Estatística, Benfica has approximately fourteen million supporters worldwide: over 5.5 million in Europe (4.7 in Portugal); over 6 million in Mozambique and Angola with the United States and Canada accounting for another million. Brazil, Venezuela, Caribbean, Indochina, China, Australia and India also have large groups of socio-members who all pay a subscription to be part of the Benfica family. There are fourteen Benfica Houses/Cafes in the Algarve including Albufeira, Faro, Loulé, Portimão, Quarteira, Silves, Algoz and Lagos. It was in Lagos nearly sixty years ago that Benfica hid a young player from Mozambique who went on to score 473 goals in 440 competitive matches. Eusébio, rated by many as the world’s greatest ever player, was due to join Sporting Lisbon but Benfica nipped in and offered his family a fee. According to Eusébio: “I used to play in Sporting’s feeder club in Mozambique. Benfica wanted to pay me under contract to go while Sporting wanted me as a junior player for experience with no monetary reward. Benfica made a decent approach. They went to speak to my mum, my brother, and offered €1,000 for three years. My brother asked for double
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and they paid it. They signed the contract with my mother and she got the money”. Eusébio arrived at Lisbon and was sent into hiding in Lagos with Benfica fearing a kidnapping operation by rivals Sporting. During this time he went under the assumed name of Ruth Malosso and remained in Lagos for two weeks until the furore calmed down.
Benfica sacks manager Two days after Benfica’s first-ever loss to Portimonense, Rui Vitória’s contract was terminated by the club. He spent three and a half years at the Estádio da Luz winning six major trophies included two consecutive Primeira Liga titles. Rumours were rife that José Mourinho, sacked by Manchester United prior to Christmas, might return to the club where he had been manager briefly in 2000. Mourinho refuted these rumours and may well return to lead Real Madrid where he won three major trophies between 2010and 2013.
Changes at Farense Ryan Gauld, signed by Sporting Lisbon from Dundee United five years ago, who was onloan at SC Farense has now moved to Scottish Premiership club Hibernian. Ryan made eleven appearances and scored twice during his time at Farense. To replace him the Faro club have secured the services of young midfielder Daniel Bragança, yet another product of the world famous Sporting Academy at Alcochete, onloan until the end of the season.
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Last word
EXPAT talk... Anthony Martin has become a bit of a couch potato since fiber optic broadband cable hit the hills and introduced him to a host of made-forTV series
A
while ago I used to wake in the morning, turn on the television and watch the news. This would be playing while I took a shower and got dressed, so by the time I was ready to go downstairs and have breakfast I was reasonably up-to-date with what was going on in the world. I‘d occasionally dip in again during the day to keep up to speed but television-wise that would, more or less, be my watching habit until after dinner when I’d check what was on and, if I didn’t find anything of interest, I wouldn’t bother. Oh dear, I’m beginning to sound like those pseudo intellectuals who, when asked if they saw a particular programme, claim to only watch the news and occasionally BBC’s Question Time but at the same time know all about Pointless and The Chase and never go out or answer the phone on Saturdays between September and December. Of course they wouldn’t be caught dead watching Strictly. But then those nice people at Lazer brought to our home in hillbilly-land their all-singing, all-dancing fibre optic cable. And this meant we, instead of having MEO’s three megabytes, now have 100 megabytes. And this is A GOOD THING. However, applying Newton’s third law, ‘for every action, there is an equal and opposite reaction’, this also means, that having an almost unlimited number of channels we watch more television, which in turn, produces CONFLICT, for as well as the normal channels we also have Amazon Prime and it is their made-for-TV series that are causing problems as I am following one series and my wife another. No longer can we watch one hour of something and then go to bed; it’s always “well maybe just one more episode” until we realise it’s 3am and we’ve run out of logs
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No longer for the fire. can we watch Therefore I must inform Mr Jeff Bezos one hour of of Amazon fame, that something. I am cancelling my It’s always Prime membership. I know that this is a bad “well maybe time to leave him in the just one more lurch for he is about to episode” until go through a divorce which will put a largish we realise dent in his personal it’s 3am and nett worth of $150bn. we’ve run out But, as I helped him along right at the of logs for beginning of his startthe fire up, buying his books and following that by treating the family to his new-fangled Kindles, clearing my shelves of the books I had already bought, and downloading more, I do feel that we have an affinity. After all, he must know me so well as he is constantly recommending things for me to buy – only yesterday, after I logged in, he suggested a clingfilm dispenser, an anti-snoring air purifier and a car cleaning mitt (either he’s mixing me up with someone else or he is really good friends with my wife). Where was I? Oh yes, books or rather, lack of books. Due to my actions I was left with a wall full of empty shelving screaming out to be filled. But filled with what? More tat? I think not. The only answer is to tear down the shelves and hang a brand new humongous flat-screen television. But that in itself causes a problem for the only people who hang televisions the size of the Bayeux Tapestry are the sort that watch Strictly Come Dancing. simplyalgarvemag.com
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