SIMPLY
ALGARVE ISSUE NO. 46 FEBRUARY 2020
REF: 7Q19240
Contents
4 WORTH KNOWING News, views, and some very good ideas
8 WRITTEN IN THE SAND Vitor Raposo’s incredible sand creations
12 PRE-LOVED A few of our favourite items from House 2 house
14 LEAP OF FAITH Some interesting trivia about Leap years, provided by Chris Wright
16 A WHOLE NEW GARDEN How to plan out a balanced Garden when starting from scratch!
20 RESTAURANT GUIDE A look at some of our readers’ favorite venues
24 PROPERTY INVESTMENT Should you invest in property this year?
COVER: A snap of what’s to come on page 8, taken by Jake Bassett.
26 PROPERTY OF THE MONTH Could this be your dream property?
PUBLISHER Richard Bassett
28 WHY ARE YOU HERE? I found my happy place
ART DIRECTOR Jake Bassett +351 966 044 143 simplyalgarvemag@gmail.com
30 RECIPE A treat of a dish you have to try!
32 SHAKE IT UP! Time for you to sit back and enjoy the luxury cocktails and amazing decor of Columbus bar
36 YOUR HEALTH Meet Carly, she’s here to get you up and moving
38 HOW TO MAKE A T-SHIRT QUILT Don’t throw out those beloved t-shirts, reuse them!
40 RESTAURANT OF THE MONTH Janela da Serra, a treat in the hills of Salir
42 FINANCE Your questions, answered by our expert
43 CURRENCY The ups and downs of the exchange market
44 NOT TO BE MISSED Get the diary out and plan your month
48 GOLF Get it right and things are swinging
49 SPORTS NEWS Where it is all happening
50 PARTING WORDS The legend behind the Almond blossom
CONTRIBUTORS Chris Wright Brody Bassett Ricardo Chaves Richard Hudson Stephan Humpenöder Purple Carrots Carly Richards Gillian Bassett Currencies Direct Jake Cleaver Portugal News AlgarveDailyNews ADVERTISING 966 044 143 simplyalgarvemag@gmail.com 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 Unipessoal Lda publication.
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News
NEED TO KNOW We bring you more news, local happenings, shop openings, bright ideas as well as helpful hints and charity updates, so you know what to look out for where. Send us your news too, we’ll always include anything of special interest
NEW LIFE PROJECT SEEKS TO PROTECT RIA FORMOSA’S BARRIER ISLANDS “Protect the barrier islands, without which Ria Formosa would not be what it is today” - this is the main objective of the new LIFE project to be presented February 4th, at the Environmental Education Centre, in Olhão. The project is coordinated by the Portuguese Society for the Study of Birds (SPEA) which will work together with RIAS/ Aldeia, Animaris, the Institute for Nature Conservation and Forests, and the Universities of the Algarve and Coimbra. The initiative is to be launched in the week of the International Wetlands Day (2nd February) and after the first meeting of the IPCC, at the University of Algarve. The barrier islands are a set of five islands (Barreta, also called Deserta, Culatra, Armona, Tavira and Cabanas) and two peninsulas (Ancão and Cacela) that, as the name implies, form a barrier between the sea and the Ria Formosa. “The contours of these extensive dune bodies are constantly being redefined by the natural agents of coastal dynamics”, explains an SPEA spokesperson. This LIFE “Ilhas Barreiras” project will serve to assess “how this dynamic could be affected by climate change – presenting important information for the conservation of Ria Formosa, for people living on some of the islands and for species that depend on this special ecosystem”, they add. “In addition to their importance in protecting the Ria Formosa, the barrier islands are themselves an important refuge for some seabirds: the Deserta island is the only place in our country
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where the audouin gull nests, and the islands are home to important populations of little tern. The “Ilhas Barreiras” project will study the state of the populations of these species, as well as the dynamics between seagulls and dunes and assess the need for conservation measures. The project will also promote the sustainable use of these islands for local communities and visitors, aiming to involve all schools in the five municipalities of Ria Formosa in a variety of environmental awareness activities. Off the barrier islands, the endangered Balearic sparrow and several sea birds seek food in important fishing areas. In this project, researchers and environmentalists will work closely with fishermen to prevent these birds from getting accidentally caught in the fishing gear. The Institute for the Conservation of Nature and Forests, through the Regional Directorate for Nature Conservation and Forests of the Algarve, says that “this is another project that adds to scientific knowledge, involving and training society to safeguard and protect natural values in the Ria Formosa”. “These islands are much more than protection. They are a source of life that attracts tourists and birds, and supports fishermen and seagulls alike. Together, we can guarantee that they continue to be so,” says Joana Andrade, coordinator of the project and member of the Department of Marine Conservation at SPEA. source: algarvedailynews.com
February 2020
HUGE HYDROELECTRIC PROJECT TO HELP PORTUGAL ELIMINATE COAL BY 2023
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vast hydroelectric project under construction in northern Portugal is set to directly replace the power lost when the government closes the last coal plants”, Prime Minister Antonio Costa. Portugal was the first country in the world to commit to net-zero carbon emissions by 2050 and last October brought forward a deadline for closing its last coal plants to 2023. The Sines coal plant owned by domestic utility EDP will close only when a hydroelectric complex with three dams, plants and pumped-storage station being built by Spanish wind giant Iberdrola in the Douro River basin begins operating. “We will only close the Sines plant in 2023, because it will only be in 2023 that we will be able to count on this system for the country’s energy supply,” Costa told press at a sub-station for the complex.
Ensuring stable electricity supply from renewable sources that rely on the intermittent movement of wind blowing or the sun shining is one of the stickiest questions facing countries around the world as they try to reduce carbon emissions. Once completed, the Tamega complex will act as a “natural battery”, Costa said. It will have capacity to supply 2 million homes, through a process of collecting water, then storing and generating energy by moving it between reservoirs at a height difference of more than 650 metres (710 yards) Iberdrola Chief Executive Ignacio Galan said such storage technology was vital to achieve emissions-cutting targets. “If you don’t have these plants you need fossil fuel plants,” he told Reuters. “To reach the zero-emissions target you need systems that emit zero.” source: algarvedailynews.com
ALGARVE NAMED TOP TOURIST LOCATION BY IRISH TRAVEL INDUSTRY AWARDS
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he Algarve’s tourism sector is celebrating yet another international accolade after the region was named ‘Best Summer Destination’ in the 2020 edition of the Irish Travel Industry Awards. These awards are “designed to showcase excellence in the delivery of international travel services to both leisure and business customers travelling from Ireland”. The accolade is all the more impressive considering that the Algarve was up against destinations such as Spain, the Canary Islands, Greece, Italy and the American city of Orlando, home to the world’s most visited vacation resort in the world, Disney World. “This is another important distinction for our region, and it will play a strategic role in the consolidation of the prestige and notoriety that the Algarve brand has achieved in Ireland,” said Algarve Tourism Association (ATA) president, João Fernandes.
The tourism boss highlighted that Irish holidaymakers “value the diversity” that the Algarve offers, from its beaches and mountains to its golf courses, traditional food and stunning trails for walking and cycling. “In fact, the region has been establishing itself in the Irish market not only as a holiday destination but as a place to get married,” Fernandes pointed out. He also said that this is the first time that the Algarve was singled out as the ‘Best Summer Destination’ as the accolade had been awarded to Portugal as a whole since 2017. ATA stresses that Ireland is one of the region’s main tourist suppliers, accounting for around 245,000 guests and 1.3 million overnight stays at accommodation units in 2018. Taking the first nine months of 2019 into account, these numbers increased 10% and 5.4% respectively. source: .portugalresident.com
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News
FARO MUSEUM TO EXHIBIT WORKS BY 17TH CENTURY BAROQUE SCULPTOR MANUEL MARTINS
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collection of works by the Algarve’s revered 17th century Baroque sculptor Manuel Martins will be exhibited at Faro’s municipal museum between February 1 and October 18. The sculptures, many of which have been loaned by local churches especially for the exhibition, have been restored by the museum’s conservation team as part of a project headed by art historian and University of the Algarve professor Francisco Lameira. Manuel Martins lived in Faro between 1667 and 1743 and had a workshop on the former Rua dos Capuchos, now known as Rua Serpa Pinto. His workshop became “one of the busiest in the region”, says the local council, and saw him establishing himself as one of the most popular Baroque-style artists in the Algarve.
The council adds that his works were “renowned for their beauty and creativity” and earned him “praise from the region’s clientele at the time, namely religious institutions”. His brother-in-law João Baptista Severino is credited with teaching Manuel Martins, who then passed what he learned to other reputable artists from that time period such as Tomé da Costa, Francisco Guedelha and João Baptista. The inauguration of the exhibition will begin at 6pm and will feature a musical performance by F3 and a guided tour led by Francisco Lameira. The museum is open from 10am to 6pm between Tuesday and Friday and from 10.30am to 5.30pm on weekends. +351 289 870 827 / museu.municipal@cm-faro.pt source: portugalresident.com
PORTUGUESE ASSOCIATION TO PRODUCE ADVANCED BIOFUELS FROM TREE-PRUNING-WASTE
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project to use the waste from pruning vines and fruit trees to produce advanced biofuel is being developed at the BLC3 Campus of Technology and Innovation in Oliveira do Hospital, the campus president reports. The BLC3 association “is developing a circular economy project in the agricultural sector, where it aims to use the waste from agricultural activities, such as pruning waste from olive trees, vines and other fruit trees” to “produce advanced biofuel,” the president of the BLC3 Technology and Innovation Campus, João Nunes, explained to Lusa. The project, “with potential application also to the forestry sector”, also recommends that “waste from crops” be used in the production of biofuel in the future. Production will be conducted “in an efficient way and with carbon emission levels much lower than from fossil fuels”, Mr. Nunes highlighted. The advanced biofuel produced by this method is “similar and equivalent to agricultural diesel”. “Agriculture is very important for the economy, and if we can integrate the efficient use of resources, it has a potential for growth, in terms of competitiveness”, the president continued. In Portugal “we have 3.6 million hectares of agricultural space (39.5% of the total land area), with more than 360,000 farms”, which represents an average of 10 hectares per farm. With this
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average farm size, the sector is naturally “not very competitive in terms of scale” and this has “an impact on the use of resources and carbon emissions”. Around 360,000 hectares of Portugal’s land area are olive groves, while 178,000 hectares are vineyards and 45,000 are used for producing fresh fruit. Mr. Nunes said these generate “a high amount of biomass waste” and explained that “we could be talking about one million tons of waste annually in these sectors alone”. However, this figure is “always difficult to quantify because it depends on agricultural production itself”. He added that “agricultural cultivation systems, which generate high quantities of biomass, have the potential and interest to produce their fuel” to use in their machinery. The BLC3 Campus of Technology and Innovation is a non-profit association, founded in 2010. It is a “new model of development of research activities and technological intensification of excellence, incubation of ideas and companies, and support to the economic fabric in inland and rural regions”. It is the only organisation in Portugal created for the development and industrialisation of biorefineries, the bioeconomy and “smart regions”, with a focus on the circular economy, according to the BLC3 website. source: algarvedailynews.com
February 2020
DARKNESS INTO LIGHT ALGARVE 5KM WALK To prevent Self Harm, Suicide and Mental Health Illness throughout the Algarve. In partnership with Healthy Minds Algarve Association For more information Facebook/darknessintolightalgarve www.healthymindsalgarve.org
Worth a visit
Often thought of as the annoying part of visiting the beach, sand is probably the least appreciated part of one of the Algarve’s biggest draws, Vitor Raposo and best friend Pipocas decided to make it the star attraction. As you can see, it is impressive 8
February 2020
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s we sat and watched in awe from the top of a cliff at Praia Maria Luis in Albufeira, Vitor started planning his next moves, armed with a few gardening tools and a length of rope with a stick on either end, he got to work... And for the next 4 hours (yes, 4 hours!) we kept watching as his next masterpiece came together, when he finished, we sat down and asked him some questions... Where are you from? I was born in Alentejo and grew up around Mina de São Domingos. How did you come to the Algarve? My family has been coming here for many years on holidays and we have a couple of Holiday homes by the beach. It’s one of my favourite places to be, all year round.
What is your profession? I have had a few different jobs and previously I worked as an Electrition but I am currently focussing on my work at the beach and enjoying the winter in the Algarve. Did you do anything artistic before your artwork in the sand? Actually, no. A lot of people assume I’m an experienced artist or something but this is the first time I have done anything artistic. What do you do to prepare? I have to check the tides in advance to see when It is at it’s highest, that way I know when to start and of course I need to check the weather, just incase the Algarve is having an off day. Of course these are estimations so I have to check visually when I get to the beach, but luckily our house is only a few minutes walk away from the beach helps a lot.
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Worth a visit
How did you start? I spent a lot of days just passing time on the beach with my Family and my dog Pipocas, then about three years ago I found some pictures on instagram of people stacking rocks which I thought was very interesting so I started making my own towers. About 18 months ago I saw a picture of a mandala in the sand and that’s when I decided to do my own work. Now I spend almost everyday seeing what I can come up with in the sand. Do you plan your drawings? Normally no, I just set up in the morning and do whatever comes to mind, unless it is a commissioned piece or a portrait. How long does an average drawing take? I’d say around three hours but some can take up to six. Whilst watching you we noticed many people talking to you about your work, what do they ask and have any of them asked you if they can join in?
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Many of them congratulate me and say it looks great and yes, I’ve had a few people from all over the world join in and I actually have a list of people that have asked to spend a day drawing in the sand with me. What commission work have you done? I have done commission work for various places such as hotels and restaurants, generally they want me to draw their logo and maybe a slogan. I also worked with Albufeira council and I’ve done a lot of work to raise awareness for charities and causes such as global warming and save the oceans which is a passion of mine, everyday I make sure I pick up any rubbish I find on the beach and dipose of it. Finally, what are your future plans and where can people contact you? I want to do a drawing on each beach in the Algarve each then move on to the whole portuguese coast with a crew for photography and video. If people want to reach out or see more of my work, the best place is Instagram, follow me @vitinha_rr
February 2020
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Promotional
Pre-loved but still beautiful We are long term visitors of House � House and through the years we have seen many interesting and wonderful things go in and out of their doors. Here are some of our favourites that are in the shop at the moment (while they last!).
POP ART Original oil on canvas signed AC in the style of Roy Lichtenstein. Size 120x120cm Iconic pop-art picture of Wonder Woman Price: ¤240
THE CARESS II (1993) One of a collection of Austin sculptures signed by S. Romo Height 55cms Price ¤130
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February 2020
FUNKY BARSTOOLS They have already found their new home!
LLADRO FIGURINE WITH ORIGINAL BOX “Quinceanera” “She is a beautiful young lady symbolising the entrance to womanhood” Height 30cms Price ¤200
FRENCH STYLE CONSOLE TABLE Brass bound with brass features, cabriole legs and wide lockable drawer with key Painted torquoise Size 130x70cms Price ¤495
February 2020
If any of these items interest you, or you are looking to find something unique for your home, do pay House 2 house a visit. We see amazing things there every month, it is definitely worth popping in whenever you are driving past as you never know what you might find! Open monday to friday, 10am-5pm 289 395 197 house2house.pt
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History
CHRISTOPHER COLUMBUS LEAP OF FAITH
Chris Wright brings us some interesting trivia about Leap years including an amusing little story involving Christopher Columbus
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eap Years are believed by many, especially those born on that day, to be an important occasion. Certainly 29th February in 1504 was very successful for Christopher Columbus who is honoured at the museum dedicated to his exploits in Huelva, just forty-five minutes from the border at VRSA. On his fourth expedition to the Americas he had been marooned for several months on the island of Jamaica. Though the natives had initially offered food and provisions, Columbus’ arrogant and overbearing attitude so annoyed them that they stopped their support. Facing starvation, Columbus came up with an inspired plan. Consulting a shipboard almanac and finding that a lunar eclipse was due, he called together the native chiefs and announced to them that God would punish them if they did not supply his crew with food and as an omen of God’s intent to punish them, there would be a sign in the sky: God would darken the Moon. Right on cue, the lunar eclipse started. Columbus disappeared into his cabin as the natives began to panic and begged him to restore the Moon. After more than an hour, Columbus emerged and announced that God was prepared to withdraw his punishment if the natives agreed to his demands. The native chiefs immediately agreed and within minutes the Moon started emerging from shadow, leaving the natives in awe of Columbus’ power. The need for an extra day every four years is necessary as it takes the earth 365 days and 6 hours to rotate around the sun but the calendar year is 365 days. But even this system is flawed, because the 0.25 day leap year, adds annually is a bit longer than the solar year’s leftover 0.242 part of a day. That made the calendar year some eleven minutes shorter than its solar counterpart, so the two diverged by an entire day every 128 years. Now leap years divisible by 100, like the year 1900, are skipped unless they’re also divisible by 400, like the year 2000, in which case they’re observed. Nobody alive remembers the last lost leap day, but dropping those three leap days every 400 years keeps the calendar on time. For this reason, the following years are not leap years: 1700, 1800, 1900, 2100, 2200, 2300, 2500, 2600. There are also numerous superstitions surrounding a Leap Year. The right of every women to propose on the 29th February goes back hundreds of years when the leap year day had no recognition in English law (the day was ‘leapt over’ and ignored, hence the term ‘leap year’). It was decided that the day had no legal status, meaning that a break in tradition on this day was acceptable. In some European countries, such as Denmark, tradition says any man who refuses a woman’s proposal on the
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29th has to buy her twelve pairs of gloves. Apparently, the intention behind it was so they could hide the woman’s embarrassment of not having an engagement ring. In Greece they say it’s unlucky for couples to marry during a leap year – especially on the actual Leap Day. In Taiwan there is a superstition that parents are thought more likely to die during a leap year and a married daughter should return home during the leap month and bring pig trotter noodles to her parents – to wish them good health and good fortune. In Scotland, a leap year is thought to be bad for livestock. This is why Scottish people sometimes say “Leap year was ne’er a good sheep year.” In some villages of southern Germany, there’s a tradition of boys putting up a small May tree in their love interest’s back garden during the night before May Day. But in leap years it becomes the girls’ turn to put up the trees. Karin and Henry Henriksen from Andenes, Norway appear in the Guinness Book of Records as being the only family to have three children born on different Leap Days - Heidi (1960), Olav (1964) and Leif-Martin (1968). And finally Sir James Milne Wilson, who was the British Premier of Tasmania from 1869 to 1872, was born on 29th February 1812 and died on 29th February 1880, making him one of the only known people to have been born on and also die on a Leap Day.
Statue of Christopher Columbus in Huelva
February 2020
Gardens
A whole new garden “Great landscaping lies in the eyes of its creator”
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hether you plan on “borrowing ideas” or plan on creating your own landscaping design, you should have at the very least a basic understanding of the principles of landscape design. This doesn’t mean that you have to apply every principle to every part of your plan. But just having an understanding of these principles will help you generate ideas and increase your creativity. Great landscaping lies in the eyes of its creator. So, while the principles of landscape design are great guidelines to follow, don’t feel like they’re the “have to rules” of landscaping. Abstract and creativity are allowed.
elements like plants, plant groups, or decor throughout the landscape. Consistency creates unity in the sense that some or all of the different elements of the landscape fit together to create a whole. Unity can be achieved by the consistency of character of elements in the design. By character, I mean the height, size, texture, color schemes, etc. of different elements. A good example would be in the use of landscaping rocks and accent boulders. If you’ve ever seen a landscape design that had one large white round boulder here and another large red square granite boulder there and so on, then you’ve seen that unity wasn’t created by this particular element. This is just one example but the principle applies to all other elements such as groups of plants and materials.
The Principles of Landscape Design Unity should be one of your main goals in your design. It may be better understood and applied as consistency and repetition. Repetition creates unity by repeating alike
Themes A simple way to create unity in your landscape is by creating themes. And one of the simplest ways to create themes is by using a little garden decor. Creating a theme
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February 2020
garden is easier when it’s related to something you’re interested in or have a passion for. If you’re into butterflies for instance, you could create a theme using plants that attract butterflies as well as using statues, ornaments, and other decor that are related to butterflies. Unity should be expressed through at least one element in your landscape and preferably more. Using elements to express a main idea through consistent style and a specific theme is what creates harmony. Simplicity Simplicity is actually one of the principles in design and art. It’s one of the best guidelines you can follow as a beginner or do it yourselfer. Just keep things simple to begin with. You can do more later. Simplicity in planting, for instance, would be to pick two or three colors and repeat them throughout the garden or landscape. Keeping decor to a minimum and within a specific theme as well as keeping hard landscapes such as
boulders consistent is also practicing simplicity. Balance and Contrast Balance in design is just as the word implies. A sense of equality. There are basically two types of balance in landscape design. Symmetrical and Asymmetrical. Symmetrical balance is where there are more or less equally spaced matching elements of the garden design. With a garden equally divided, both sides could share all or part of the same shape, form, plant height, plant groupings, colors, bed shapes, theme, etc. You may remember creating something like this when you were a kid in art class at school. Where you take a piece of paper, splash paint on it, fold it in half, unfold it, and then it magically creates an interesting symmetrical design. So symmetrical balance or design is somewhat of, a mirror image or reflection. Asymmetrical balance on the other hand is one of the principles of landscape design that’s a little more complex.
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Gardens While textures, forms, colors, etc. may remain constant to create some unity, shapes and hard landscapes may be more random. This form of balance often has separate or different themes with each having an equal but different type of attraction. Asymmetrical may be better understood as actually being unbalanced, abstract, or free form while still creating unity and balance through the repetition of some elements. A good example of this would be where bed shapes or paths differ on both sides of the landscape dividing line while still sharing some of the same elements and plants. One side could be curved with a sense of flow while the other side is straight, direct, hard, and completely opposite. Again, unity and balance will be created through other elements. Contrast can be very interesting and this type of form can create a neat contrast. Flowing lines are pleasing to the eye but the bold contrast of a curve combined with a straight line can be very interesting. Asymmetrical balance isn’t dependant on the shape of your garden. It can be but generally it’s not, an example might be where one side of the garden is mostly large shade trees while the other side is predominately a lower growing flower garden or even a mix of both examples. Like I stated earlier, the landscaping can be abstract while still maintaining unity through other elements such as rocks, plants, and decor. Contrast and harmony can also be achieved using plants. Fine foliage verses coarser foliage, round leaves verses spiked leaves as well as color compliments and contrasts. Plant height, color, and texture may be varied from one area to the next but each area should stay consistent within its own theme. You’ll hear me talk about “themes” a lot. Many successful do-it-yourself designs follow a basic theme to achieve most of the principles of landscape design described on this page. The proper use of plants or garden decor or a mix of both is a simple way to achieve themes. Colour Colour adds the dimension of real life and interest to the landscape. Bright colours like reds, yellows and oranges seem to advance toward you and can actually make an object seem closer to you. Cool colours like greens, blues, and pastels seem to move away from you and can make an object seem farther from you. Grays, blacks, and whites are considered neutral colours and are best used in the background with bright colours in the foreground. However, to increase depth in a landscape, you can use dark and coarse textured plants in the foreground and use fine textured and light coloured plants in the background. Colours can also be used to direct your attention to a specific area of the garden. A bright display among cooler colours would naturally catch the eye. Transitions Natural transition can be applied to avoid radical or abrupt changes in your landscape design. Transition is basically gradual change. It can best be illustrated in terms of plant height or color but can also be applied to all elements in the landscape including but not limited to textures, foliage shape or size, and the size and shape of different elements. In other words, transition can be achieved by the gradual, ascending or descending, arrangement of different elements with varying textures, forms, colors, or sizes.
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An example of a good transition would be a stair step effect from large trees to medium trees to shrubs to bedding plants. This example is where a little knowledge of proper plant selection would come in handy. Transition is one of the principles of landscape design that can be used to “create illusions” in the landscape. For example a transition from taller to shorter plants can give a sense of depth and distance (like in a painting), making the garden seem larger than it really is. A transition from shorter to taller plants could be used to frame a focal point to make it stand out and seem closer than it really is. Line Line is of the more structural principles of landscape design. It can mostly be related to the way beds, walkways, and entryways move and flow. Straight lines are forceful and direct while curvy lines have a more natural, gentle, flowing effect. Proportion Proportion simply refers to the size of elements in relation to each other. Of all the principles of landscape design, this one is quite obvious but still requires a little thought and planning. Most of the elements in landscape design can be intentionally planned to meet the proper proportions. For instance if you are creating a small courtyard garden, an enormous seven foot garden statue placed in the center would be way out of proportion and a little tacky to say the
least. Or a small four foot waterfall and pond placed in the center of a large open yard would get lost in the expanse. Don’t misunderstand this to mean that if you have a large yard you can’t have smaller features or garden decor. Proportion is relative and elements can be scaled to fit by creating different rooms in the garden. The goal is to create a pleasing relationship among the three dimensions of length, breadth, and depth or height. Also, special consideration and study should be given to proper plant selection to avoid using plants that are out of proportion. Just remember it is your garden and your inspiration should come through in the design, but remember the basics and everything should work out fine. and planning. Most of the elements in landscape design can be intentionally planned to meet the proper proportions. For instance if you are creating a small courtyard garden, an enormous seven foot garden statue placed in the center would be way out of proportion and a little tacky to say the least. Or a small four foot waterfall and pond placed in the center of a large open yard would get lost in the expanse. Don’t misunderstand this to mean that if you have a large yard you can’t have smaller features or garden decor. Proportion is relative and elements can be scaled to fit by creating different rooms in the garden. The goal is to create a pleasing relationship among the three dimensions of length, breadth, and depth or height.
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Go there
Your ultimate
Restaurant
We are back with some of our readers favourite eateries. Some are close by, others worth the journey.
Guide
MONICA’S RESTAURANT Vale do Lobo The food here is amazing, from starters through to desserts, compliments to the chef(s). We have been coming to this restaurant for the past 5 years and you always get such excellent service. The owners, Luis and Monica, and all the waiting staff are very friendly and welcoming. There is such a nice ambience to this restaurant which is different to some of the usual places, it has a lovely homely interior and great outside space for the warm evenings. If you never been here before I would highly recommend it as you will not be disappointed. Avenida Cidade de Loule, Vale do Lobo, Loule 8135-034, Portugal +351 964 850 669
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VEGAN JOE’S Loulé I have been for both lunch and dinner about 4 or 5 times and always had good quality, well presented and tasty food. Vegan food is obviously not for everyone but after trying various other vegan options and restaurants in other parts of the world nothing genuinely compares to Vegan Joes! A brilliant restaurant that always has produced high quality and reasonably priced food I couldn’t recommend any higher! Rua de Portugal 47, Loule 8100-554, Portugal +351 289 053 723
���% LIVRE Loulé This restaurant is a little gem! it is an unassuming family restaurant with heart-felt values at the core of everything they do. The food was 100% free of gluten, dairy and refined sugar. These people care, they get the connection between health and the food we eat. Our lunch was simply delicious, beautifully presented. everything so thoughtful and caring of the environment. A young couple with a new baby run this restraurant, if you get a chance, don’t miss out. they deserve for their courageous intentions to have a huge success with this business. Rua Primeiro de Dezembro, 38, Loule 8100-561, Portugal +351 968 739 024
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Foodies
HENRIQUE LEIS Almancil Our friends have raved about the lunch at this place for sometime so we were tempted out of Quinta do Lago for a visit. The location, by the main road from Almancil to Loule, is not inspiring but just get there as soon as you can! The seating upstairs above the big bend in the road beautiful and the views to the coast are exceptional. I will use the words exceptional and outstanding for the rest of the whole experience! Staff, presentation, dishes and overall satisfaction is second to none. The lunch menu of 2 courses had us raving in congratulations to the whole team. We will have to go for dinner for the full works on a special occasion soon. I must stop yelling at everyone I meet about this gem or I will never be able to book a table. We go there whenever we possibley can. Rua Vale Formoso, Loule 8135-148, Portugal +351 289 393 438
BURGERS AND BOWLS Almancil We wish we had visited this place sooner! It has a brilliant selection of burgers, including chicken, salmon, fish, veggie etc. The Bowls are all adventurously put together, high quality and fresh ingredients. The wine and cocktail list is also very good., the staff superb, friendly, efficient, totally knowledgable about the extensive menu and gave excellent recommendations. It also has a very nice atmosphere, you can dine inside or outside. And very good value as well, not easy to find at times in the golden triangle... We love it! Avenida 5 de Outubro, Loule 8135-103, Portugal +351 289 391 104
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February 2020
BRITISH STYLE AUCTION HOUSE • Direct Sales • Business and House Clearances • Free Valuations • Online Catalogue & Monthly Auctions!
General Auctions Plus Antiques and Collectables General auctions are held on the 1st Saturday of the month and Start at 10:00 am.Viewings on the Thursday and Friday before the Auction between 09:00 and 17:00.
WANTED! ANTIQUE AND VINTAGE JEWELLERY AND HALLMARKED STERLING SILVER.
FURTHER DETAILS OF ALL AUCTIONS ARE ON OUR WEBSITE
Do you have antique and vintage jewellery you would like to sell? Have you got some hallmarked sterling silver items you no longer want? These items are creating a lot of interest at Auction at the moment and are achieving realistic prices.
WWW.AHALGARVE.COM
Why not give us a no obligation call to discuss what you may like to sell? We offer honest valuations and free advise to all potential sellers.
Open: Mon - Fri 09:00 - 14:00pm Sat: Open Auction days Email: valuations@ahalgarve.com Office: 289 832 380 Tel. Mark: 914 774 438 Sitio do Besouro, Conceição, Faro
February 2020
23
Property Update
PROPERTY INVESTMENT Stefan Humpenöder, director of Yellow Homes - Land & Houses Algarve, discusses whether you should invest in property in ����
I
s buying real estate in Portugal in 2020 a good investment? After a long period of economic and real estate crisis, the European property market has been astonishingly strong over the last few years. International investors are optimistic about the property market outlook for 2020, which likely leads to further price appreciation in several countries like Germany, Holland….and also Portugal. How things can change. About 10 years ago nearly everyone was predicting the end of Europe but since around 2014, property prices have risen constantly. Economic growth and tax benefits make Portugal one of the best places for commercial and residential investment nowadays. The westernmost country in Europe has long been a well-kept secret, but today it is much more than a place to visit. Portugal, which has now become globalized, is one of the most desirable places to live and invest in, offering stable returns in a very safe environment. From successful start-ups to large established international companies…today you find them all in Portugal, while world-class education and excellent quality of life appeal to thousands of foreign families. In the last few years Portugal has won consecutive International awards and is now also ranking as best place to retire in 2020. Everything indicates that sales dynamics will remain high. Real estate properties in Portugal allow investors to make money in both the short term and long run as property
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demand continues to exceed supply for permanent living as well as investment. We can tell by the large number of new developments that the supply shortage is being addressed. Real estate prices are expected to increase over the next couple of years as Portugal consolidates its status as a mature European market. Commercial and residential real estate in Europe seem to be quite expensive, so how is it possible that several countries in Europe including Portugal still continue to attract so many foreign investors, while experiencing moderate economic growth with low inflation? One of the reasons is the monetary policy of the European Central Bank (ECB). The ECB still continues to operate with a loose monetary policy and is keeping interest rates low. Low bond yields are forcing investors to look for alternative investments with higher returns and real estate seems to offer this. Although property prices are high it still generates a net rental income of a few percent. Compared to (near) zero interest offered on bonds and saving accounts it remains attractive. However outsize returns on investment is for many investors not the most important matter. A safe and stable environment as well as capital preservation is just as important. From the perspective of a foreign buyer property in Portugal is still good value for money, therefor growing interest among investors worldwide comes as no real surprise. However, there is a great variation in property prices between different regions throughout
February 2020
Portugal due to supply and demand. to negotiate directly between you and the vendor. Some emerging economies are experiencing a productivity To view our superb selection of properties for sale please visit slowdown and growth in emerging market economies has been our user-friendly website. falling behind expectations for a number of years now. Leave Yellow Homes – Land & Houses Algarve aside China and India, emerging markets have been growing www.algarvepropertysearch.com more slowly than developed economies since 2015. Investors www.algarve-portugal-immobilien.de from emerging markets are turning to Europe for diversification and good, stable returns. Investment expenditure collapsed in Vilamoura Office Europe a decade ago, those same investors are now investing in EN 125, Benfarras Boliqueime Europe. They are convinced real estate in Portugal is equivalent 8100 - 068 Boliqueime to a secured bond, especially if you buy in prime locations such Tel: 289 301 294 as Lisbon, Porto and the Algarve. They do know there is still Fax: 289 301 439 potential for an even better economy and higher inflation, which could positively influence the investment as property is regarded Tavira Office as inflation proof. That´s why real estate in developed markets Rua Dr. José Pires Padinha 178 performed well, something that is likely to continue. Interest rates 8800 - 354 Tavira are still very low and the outlook for the coming years is that Tel: 281 320 281 they will remain low. If interest rates were to rise in the future, the Fax: 281 321 901 (AMI - 6232) cost of borrowing could be fixed for a certain period of time. It is also reasonable to assume that some taxes, charges and costs will rise in Portugal. After the financial crisis construction capacity saw a sharp decrease. GOLF PROPERTIES - VILLAS - APARTMENTS - TOWNHOUSES - PLOTS With increased demand for newly built property, the cost of labour and construction materials are increasing, despite these higher costs investors have not been discouraged. Given the above mentioned aspects and current circumstances, it is hard to escape the conclusion that buying real estate in Portugal in 2020 is still a clever decision and that we still have a couple of years to go until things may correct, unless it comes to social/political issues or threat of international instability. AMI: 6232 Bear in mind: People who lost THE ONLY MODERN 3 BED VILLA IN VILA SOL UNDER 1 MIL EUROS Located within the Vila Sol golf resort - home to one of the Algarve’s most sought after championship golf courses – this modern three bedroom villa has four bathrooms money in real estate are often and is equipped with air-conditioning and underfloor heating throughout. The carefully selected high quality finishing those who bought at the peak of are impressive. The house offers excellent comfort and luxury. the market and sold at the wrong Rare opportunity to acquire such a beautiful villa for under 1 Million Euros. Ref TPL / Price: € 965.000 Euro, EC - D time. In general, property should Contact us! Our email is info@yellowhomes.com or call us on (+351) 289 301 294 be seen as a medium to long term Find out more info on our website www.yellowhomes.com investment. It takes a savvy buyer to be able to flip property at a profit in a short period of time. Besides these promising prospects, it is still an excellent GOLF PROPERTIES - VILLAS - APARTMENTS - TOWNHOUSES - PLOTS idea to consult a professional real estate agency that can guide you along the way. You have a better chance of achieving your goal with an experienced agent who can advise you about the right price of a property. After all, if your input price is too high you will struggle to make a decent return on your investment. With just under 400 properties for sale in locations stretching the full length of the Algarve, Yellowhomes Land & Houses Algarve is well placed to advice AMI: 6232 you on all property related matters. BEAUTIFUL 5 BED QUINTA STYLE PROPERTY WITH GUEST ANNEX NEAR VILAMOURA. This character filled 4 All listed properties have been bedroom villa with separate 1 bedroom guest annex is conveniently located in a very peaceful village setting within personally visited by our sales a short drive of Vilamoura, the marina, several golf courses and numerous beaches. The 11m x 5m heated salt water teams, allowing us to perfectly swimming pool is surrounded large terrace. The property with beautiful country views also benefits from approximately 4000m2 of additional land for fruit trees, vegetable growing, tennis court, etc. Viewings recommended! match your search criteria with Ref : P-CCL / Price: € 675.000 Euro, EC – B suitable properties saving you time. Contact us! Our email is info@yellowhomes.com or call us on (+351) 289 301 294 We are in direct contact with the Find out more info on our website www.yellowhomes.com owners allowing us the opportunity
Feruary 2020
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Property
PROPERTY YELLOW HOMES Land & Houses Algarve Real Estate Agent since 1995 T: +351 289 301 294 E: info@yellowhomes.com www.yellowhomes.com EN 125, Benfarras Boliqueime (opposite DHL)
AMI: 6232
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February 2020
OF THE MONTH Beautiful detached single storey villa with 4 bedrooms set on a large, private plot close to Loulé with fantastic far-reaching country views
PROPERTY DETAILS • Villa built in 2002 set on a generous plot of just over 7000m2 • Light- drenched living room with wood burning stove • Separate dining room with brick dome ceiling • 4 Bedrooms / 4 bathrooms • Large fully fitted and equipped kitchen with breakfast bar • Large utility room • Garage with automatic door • Air conditioning pre-installation • Gas central heating throughout the house, gas tank • Double glazed windows, aluminium shutters, mosquito nets
• Solar panels for hot water • Alarm, central vacuum cleaning system • Mains water, licensed borehole with cistern • Large private swimming pool (12x6m) • Plot completely walled / fenced , automatic entrance gate • Vast landscaped garden, offering lots of privacy and space • Sold partly furnished • Construction: approx. 299 m2, Built in 2002 • Plot 7022 m2 • EC: E
¤875,000 Ref: DZO February 2020
27
Reasons
WHY ARE YOU HERE? You might find her out and about in her unmissable red van or in her shop full of wonderful items for your home, meet Donna Vinall, Where are you from? I am from from Norwich, Norfolk in the UK.
Mark my partner had never been here so the first time he came was once the apartment had already been rented but he too instantly loved it. The more I came the more I wanted to come, I couldn’t wait to be here all the time.
Your Profession? I was a carer for 26 years then I opened my own care agency which I did for 8 years before moving to Portugal. The first time you visited the Algarve and why? The first time I visited Portugal was a very spare of the moment decision I felt like I just wanted to escape from a very stressful lifestyle at the time and decided to get away. I looked up horse riding holidays and up came Portugal, I had never heard of it but it drew me because it was only a 3 hour flight and I could be back in no time if need be. The place I went to was Orique, a very quiet but beautiful part of the Algarve. I went out on the horse and it was an exhilarating feeling of freedom and an inner relaxation it drew me like a magnet. Three things that made you fall in love with the place? It’s unexplainable, Portugal just seems to have this magical pull. I’ve traveled to lots of places but Portugal is different. It makes you feel settled within yourself and relaxed, the traditions here are like going back in time, it’s very family oriented and there’s a togetherness amongst everyone. Let alone the beautiful weather and scenery around you that makes you feel content everyday. How many times did you visit before you decided to make a move? Unbelievably, that first time I visited I knew this was where I was going to be spending a large part of my life, so soon as I returned to the uk I began to plan my move. The riding teacher had taken me to Loulé for a visit one afternoon and I absolutely loved it and wanted to live not too far away and that’s where we are today. Did you rent/buy/build – where? I found a house to rent on Facebook in a place called Casa Branca, just outside Salir. It had 4 rooms in it and was set on its own with beautiful views and a large swimming pool. But I couldn’t move straight away as I had a business to carry on with and 4 grown up children and 13 dogs so I began to come over at weekends and when I could.
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Your favourite place? My favourite place has always been Loulé I think because it’s a very traditional little place with it’s Saturday morning market and there’s nothing like drinking a coffee outside in the sunshine and people watching. Your perfect day? I couldn’t possibly choose because since I have been here everyday is an appreciation of something, be it the weather, the scenery, eating outside or the contentment within myself. Portugal really has become my home and when I go to the Uk I really look forward to coming back. Finally, What did you decide to do here in Portugal? When I first came to Portugal I had no idea what I was going to do and although I had bought an apartment near the sea and it was very beautiful I found myself getting a bit bored as I had always worked even through all of my children growing up. After some time I began to buy terracotta plant pots and painting them which came out, then I ventured on to old Portuguese beds and bedsides and pieces of furniture but there was something else needed. We decided to buy a ruin up in the hills of Salir and renovate it. The local people would come in and giggle but when they saw the finished product they couldn’t believe it, no sooner had we finished we put it up for sale ready for the next one but in my mind I always wanted to open a furniture shop with beautiful but quirky pieces so with my love of interior design and beautiful furniture that’s what I decided to. Now we have a shop with a difference and it doesn’t fail to impress every customer who enters and after only 9 months of opening we have decided to go into a bigger shop so we can display more and exciting pieces! donna@algarveelegance.com algarveelegance.com
February 2020
E legance
ALGARVE
Love of furniture and interior design by Donna Algarve Elegance is the beauty within your home with a taste of difference and style. Find us here: Av. Duarte Pacheco 143, Almancil or contact us on T: 960 116 396 E: donna@algarveelegance.com W: algarveelegance.com February 2020
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Simply delicious
PORK VINDALOO One of the recipes in this compilation to best illustrate Portugal’s influence on foreign cuisine and vice versa, Vindalho de Porco, or Pork Vindaloo, as many would better know it, comes from the former Portuguese colony of Goa. Back in the times of the Discoveries, Portuguese sailors are said to have introduced a garlic and vinegar seasoning (vinha de alhos) to the region, which was then adapted to its current form by the locals to incorporate chilli and a blend of spices. Ingredients • 1 kg boneless pork shoulder or pork leg, cut into bite size pieces • 2 onions, finely chopped • 5 garlic cloves, crushed • 2 tomatoes, finely chopped • 2 bay leaves • 10 fresh curry leaves • 1 tablespoon brown mustard seeds • oil for frying For the Vindalho marinade • 5 garlic cloves • 2 large cardamom pods • 8 cloves • 20 peppercorns • 2 tablespoons vinegar • 5 teaspoons Kashmiri chilli powder (this gives a nice colour but not the heat) • 1 tablespoon cumin seeds, toasted • 2 teaspoons turmeric • 1 green chilli pepper, finely chopped • 2 teaspoons mustard seeds, toasted • 3 cm fresh ginger, finely chopped
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Method: Using a mortar and pestle, make a paste of all the marinade ingredients. Place in a bowl and coat the pork. Leave to marinate for 8 to 48 hours (the longer the better). Fry the curry leaves with the mustard seeds in the oil. When the mustard seeds begin to pop, add the chopped onions with the garlic. Fry for about 10 minutes, until they become soft and translucent. Stir regularly so the spices don’t burn. Add the tomatoes and the bay leaves. Add the pork with the marinade and add enough water to cover. Leave to simmer for about 1 hour until the pork is very tender and the oil rises to the top. Serve with white rice.
February 2020
February 2020
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Worth a visit
SHAKE IT UP
Disclaimer! Once you visit this bar, you won’t be able to drink cocktails at any other establishment without feeling something is missing... 32
February 2020
W
elcome to the award winning Columbus Cocktail and Wine bar, it’s stylish, has the highest of quality and is situated in the heart of Faro. If you’re looking for a place full of character with an intensely professional feeling that makes you feel special as a client, this is it. The building it sits within is 600 years old, acting as a type of “Pousada” all those years ago and mainly used by travellers, you can still see the loops embeded in the arches where the horses were tied to. Renovated and reopened in 2004, the theme of the bar is based on Christopher Columbus and his travels, from the Asian lampshades hanging from the ceiling, to the Amazonian wine room based on his... accidental destination. There are also subtle highlights of Portugal throughout the decor, with the Portuguese Granite tables and Azuleijos. The impressive decor is designed to keep you entertained whilst the expert Mixologists perfect your selected beverage, as cocktails made to the highest standard take time, so enjoy your surroundings and conversation - they will take care of the rest. The bar is family owned, all born and raised in Faro and they take pride it, they use as many local ingredients in their cocktails as possible, choosing local shops for their stocks, recycling any and all they can and even dehydrating fruits to make sure as little as possible is wasted, it’s a
February 2020
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Worth a visit
breath of fresh air to find a place that cares so much, not just about their presentation and quality, but behind the scenes as well. The Family also owns the Eva rooftop bar, Aperitivo Bar and Lodo Ostraria, all in Faro and all follow the same standard as Columbus. As mentioned before, the Family care deeply about the area and equily as much about their customers, so they choose the best young Mixologists and Bartenders from Faro and the surrounding areas to serve their clients and they are constantly evolving and perfecting their craft, whether its their knowledge of spirits, the balance of flavours needed in the cocktails, to five star service and quality of ingredients, the owners attend seminars and workshops with the staff not just around the country but in other locations as well, like London for example. There’s no wonder why they have won awards such as “Best Portuguese Bartender”, “Best Mixologist” and many more.
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The Columbus team are currently redesigning their menu to include 30 signature cocktails and 6 “shared” cocktails, designed to be enjoyed as a group. The current menu is a delight but they plan to add fairytale stories to each cocktail to make the menu multifuctional as a book that is interesting to read not just a menu to sift through the nice pictures and choose what looks nicest. They are also rebalance the cocktails to have more volume, slightly less alcohol and less sugar so you can enjoy more than one or two cocktails before feeling too tipsy. These change should be finalized and ready to launch in March. If you are interested in visiting Columbus find them here: Praça Dom Francisco Gomes, Nº 13, Faro Or contact +351 917 776 222 info@barcolumbus.pt
February 2020
February 2020
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Health
GET FIT & STAY FIT
M
eet Carly Richards, a fully qualified Personal Trainer who is here to get you looking and feeling happy and healthy in the comfort of your own home. Carly completed her Personal Training diploma along with Nutrition and Sports massage in 2004 with Premier in London. Initially she worked in a few Gyms however she found that a lot of people don’t like the whole gym environment and feel more comfortable working one-on-one in their own home, which lead her to make the leap to being self employed. Carly will be giving us some tips and exercises that we can do ourselves to keep in shape and get our bodies moving in the coming issues. Her Personal Training sessions consist of anything from weight training, cardio, boxing, core strength and flexibility (which is based around Yoga and Pilates!). These sessions are catered to each individual client’s needs. As Carly is also trained in nutrition, she can help you keep a healthier approach to eating and drinking at the same time. “Consistency with regular exercise is so important to keep feeling strong, healthy, mobile and overall happy within”. Keep a look out for Carly’s tip next month and give it a try yourself. Make sure to send us some feedback on how you do! If you are looking to take your fitness and health more seriously then contact Carly on: Tel +351 926 671 132 / 0044 7732-801565 or email carlyrichards@yahoo.com
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February 2020
When you are just starting out with an exercise program or you aren’t seeing results with your current routine, a personal trainer can give you the help you need. Carly Richards is now living here in the Algarve and will be providing tips and exercises to help keep us fit!
Health
Also you may purchase: the Professional’s Drive, double points on a hidden hole and also Mulligans. THERE WILL BE AN AUCTION, WHICH IS ALSO OPEN TO ON-LINE BIDS PRIOR TO THE TEE OFF TIME, WHICH INCLUDES A FEW EXCLUSIVE ITEMS SUCH AS: ● 2 Executive seats at Old Trafford next season including a nights accommodation and Michelin Dinner at top restaurant. ● 2 Exclusive tickets to the Royal Enclosure at Royal Ascot with two nights accommodation and dinner at the famous San Carlo Restaurant, London. ● 1 x Original Autographed photo World Champion Anthony Joshua. ● 1 x Original Autographed photo World Champion Tyson Fury. Plus a multitude of exciting prizes for the raffle draw. For Online bids email:
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February 2020
www.eastalgarvemag.com
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Do It Yourself
HOW TO MAKE A T-SHIRT QUILT
T
Make a T-shirt quilt and turn a batch of unused (but much-loved) shirts into permanent memories.
here are no special patterns for T-shirt quilts— they can be as basic or as intricate as you wish. Every quilt is unique and although specific T-shirt quilt patterns aren’t necessary, it is true that assembly techniques are just a bit different for this type of project. Examine the shirts you plan to use and ask yourself a few questions before you begin to make the quilt. • How large are the T-shirts? • How many shirts are available? • Will all panels be cut the same size? Many quilters sewed panels of different sizes together in somewhat of a jigsaw-puzzle type layout. • How large should the quilt be? • Do you have enough shirts to make a quilt that size without adding other design elements? • Do you want to use sashing between the T-shirt panels? Sashing, with or without cornerstones, helps separate the shirts and increases size. Borders can be added to increase size, too. Use a Stabilizer with Stretchy Fabrics T-shirts are much easier to work with when fusible interfacing is used to stabilize the stretchy fabric. Many brands are available but look for a non-woven fusible interfacing, such as Pellon Quilter’s Grid 820. Your local quilt or fabric shop may have a non-woven version that’s less expensive, and available by the yard. Ask what they keep on hand for T-shirt quilts. Be sure the interfacing comes with easy to understand instructions. Stabilizer Pros and Cons A stabilizer is recommended but not everyone preps shirts with interfacing before sewing them into a quilt. • The benefits of not using a stabilizer—a softer quilt top that’s easier to hand quilt. • The drawbacks—fabric that’s more difficult to cut and sew accurately, and panels that may stretch over time if not secured to the batting and backing with fairly close quilting stitches. You may also experience puckering as the stretchy fabric folds onto itself during machine quilting. First, Cut the Shirts Apart 1 Wash and dry the T-shirts. 2 Use a pair of sharp scissors to remove the front panel, cutting near the side seams in order to leave as much fabric as possible— you’ll trim back later. 3 Cut off the sleeves and connecting seams 4 Cut below the neck banding, too, and remove any hemmed area along the bottom of the shirt. Don’t remove too much excess fabric yet—oversize panels are good to have. 5 After trimming, you’ll likely have a somewhat rectangular panel.
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6 Do the same to the back of the shirt if its image will be used in the quilt. 7 Cut all of the available shirts. Cut the T-Shirt Panels • Interfacing is fused to oversize panels, which are then trimmed back to the correct unfinished size. • T-shirt quilts are typically assembled with a 1/2” seam allowance, which is pressed open to reduce bulk. That means you should add 1” to the finished width and height of a panel to determine its unfinished size (the size to cut after fusing). • Images can be centred within each panel or they can be offset - which would best suit your design? Make that decision before trimming any panel. • Determine the cutting size for panels and then trim them to be somewhat larger, so that, when interfacing is fused to their backs, the final cuts will be along tightly-fused edges. For instance, if your T-shirt panels will finish at 12” x 12”, leave the panel at about 14” x 14”, and then trim back to 13” x 13” after fusing. • A large square rotary ruler makes centring the design and cutting the panel a breeze. Make rigid templates of the sizes required if you do not have the rotary cutting equipment. A window template has an opening that allows you to easily mark both the cutting and sewing line while centring the image within the panel’s finished dimensions. • Remember to make the first cut larger than the panel’s unfinished size, as explained above. Finish the Quilt After the quilt top is complete, finishing the quilt is really no different than finishing any other quilting project, although it’s easier to machine quilt a T-shirt project than to quilt it by hand. 1 Use a 1/2” seam allowance to sew panels in each row or column together. 2 Press seam allowances open and then join the rows or columns, matching intersections where seams meet if necessary, for the design. 3 Square up edges if necessary. Outer panels may seem a tiny bit off if you apply binding with a 1/4” wide seam allowance because cutting dimensions allowed a larger seam. The small difference probably won’t be noticeable, but use a 1/2” seam to bind if you wish. If mitering corners and using a 1/2” seam allowance, stop and mitre 1/2” before you reach each corner—not 1/4” before the corner. You could also carefully remove the extra 1/4” seam allowance that encircles the quilt, and then sew the binding on with a 1/4” seam. For more information, email Gillian: gillstap@aol.com More T shirt quilt pics to choose from: https://www. thesprucecrafts.com/pictures-of-t-shirt-quilts-4051125
February 2020
Janela Da Serra
Valentine’s Day menu! Starters for sharing:
Bread, butter and marinated carrots Prawns, garlic, white wine & parsley Chicken samosas, yoghurt and cucumber
Main course for sharing:
Sauteed mushrooms, peas & coriander African curry Moqueca Farmers Pork cheek on the bone
Pudding:
Warm chocolate brownie Lemon tart
15 euros per person, contact 964 850 399 to reserve your table (drink not included) Fado Night March 7th, Reserve your table now!
Monica’s by Luis, Monica & Joao
Romantic ideas... Starters:
Devilled chicken wings Melting camembert & pumpkin compote Delicious Prawns in Garlic butter sauce
Main course:
Pork Wellington (Fillet of beef, 5 euros extra cost) Wild corvine and Mussels Chef Vegetarian mushroom risotto
Dessert:
Dulce Amore Platter
25 euros per person, contact 964 850 669 to reserve your table (drink not included) Monica’s Monthly Wine Tasting & Supper Evening Wednesday March 25th February 2020
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Dining out
RESTAURANT OF THE MONTH JANELA DA SERRA, SALIR
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February 2020
J
anela da Serra is set in the historic Village of Salir which boasts stunning views and bundles of traditional Portuguese character. Just like Salir, the history behind Janela da Serra is very interesting, as it is situated opposite to Igreja Matriz de Salir, it acted as a water stable for people to leave their horses to rest and “refuel” whilst their owner attended mass, of course this is hundreds of years ago. Now, it serves as a spot for people from all over the world to enjoy some delicious tapas and beverages whilst visiting and the wonderful Village. Reopened in 2018 by Monica and Luis (of Monica’s Restaurant in Vale do Lobo), who live in Salir, having suceeded with the restaurant in Vale do Lobo they always invisioned opening another restaurant in Salir, they turned Janela da Serra into a cosy tapas restaurant with the same familiar feeling of familiy friendly comfort, something you’ll find anywhere that Monica and Luis are a part of. One thing you’ll find when ariving at Janela da Serra (once you’ve pried your eyes from the view) is the menu, whilst still including the traditional Chourico assado and Queijo e Presunto, Janela da Serra mixes it up with other tapas from around the world such as Nachos, Spiced chicken wings, “Mama’s African curry Moqueca” (Pictured
to the left) which is an African Monkfish and Prawn curry, inspired by Luis’ Grandmother. Basically, you’ll be spoilt for choice but luckily the whole idea behind the restaurant is to come as a group and enjoy great food together so you don’t have to miss out! Naturally, as much of the ingredients as possible are locally or traditionally sourced and everything is homemade, from the Fishcakes to the chilli crispy squid and Monica’s home made cakes which make a real difference in the texture and flavour of the dishes. Lastly, if you do visit, make sure you take a minute to nose around downstairs, as just to the left of the bathrooms is a room that gives the restaurant its name. A lovely cosy space decorated to give the feeling that is as if you are at home includes a huge circular window with an amazing view of the hills and valley below. We hope this is enough to get you jumping in to your cars to visit and enjoy all Janela da Serra offers and maybe even reserve a whole day to walk around Salir, but if not then just wait till next month where we will be taking you on a little tour of the town and getting to know a little more about it! Largo 25 de Abril 3, 8100-202 Salir 289 489 439
February 2020
41
Finance
In response to your questions... Each month, Ricardo Chaves of All Finance Matters gives an insight into the legalities governing tax and general financial matters We are NHR in Portugal since 2014 but we need to change our Tax Residence. In order to renounce tax residence in Portugal, what are the formalities? How quickly can they be achieved? Is our physical presence essential for them? In order to change your tax residency, it’s necessary that you provide a utility bill or bank statement with your name and foreign address. This document along with your passport needs to be presented at the local tax office who will change your tax records. It’s possible for us to do this on your behalf, providing we have a power of attorney. Please note that you should also cancel your EU residency certificate, which was obtained at the local council. Normally to do this, it’s necessary that you are present. As you are currently NHR until 31-12-2023, this means that if you return to Portugal before this date, you will still be entitled to the NHR scheme for the remaining time. For instance, if you return to Portugal and become resident in 2022, you would still benefit from this scheme, in 2022 and 2023. My Mother is moving to Portugal this year. Is there a benefit to applying for residency before Brexit potentially on 31/01/20? How long after applying for residency can she bring a car in tax free? Currently the information we have is that with or without a deal, there will be an interim period until the end of 2020 and the residency process will continue the same for UK residents. If the UK leaves the EU with a deal and you are resident of Portugal before the end of the implementation period, you will be able to stay. There is probably going to be some changes to the residency registration processes after Brexit, we will let you know once we have the full information. With reference to the car she can be exempt of tax if the car is imported within the first six months of her residency. The car must be in her name for at least 6 months before moving to Portugal, she must have lived in the country the car is from for at least 6 months and these are the documents needed: Proof of residency (a paper from the city hall or equivalent from the country you have been living in); The car’s documentation (all you have on the car that identifies your car and you as the owner); Proof that you have been living in the said country (receipts from supermarkets, restaurants, house payments, etc.) I own a property in Portugal with a bank mortgage, if I decide to rent the property, can the bank increase the interest rate? What about the IMI (council tax) exemption, will I lose this? According to a new law that started in February 2019, the banks can no longer change your interest rate just
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because you decided to rent the property. Even if the deed says the opposite, it’s no longer possible to change the rate, however there are two important requirements: The rental contract needs to make reference to the mortgage and the tenant needs to pay the rent to the bank account where the landlord pays the mortgage instalments. In what refers to the IMI council tax exemption, this will stop as the exemption is granted based on permanent residency, if the house is no longer your permanent residency, you will have to pay the IMI. You will be able to deduct the IMI council tax, when declaring the rentals to the tax authorities for the income tax. I have an imported car and the road tax (IUC) has always been very high. The tax authorities have recently informed that they will change their calculations, following the EU courts sanctions. How can I be refunded? What should I do? The tax office will automatically change the car tax. This IUC amendment applies to cars imported or admitted to Portugal on or after 1 July 2007; and first registered in a Member State of the European Union or the European Economic Area prior to 1 July 2007. With respect to taxpayers who have requested or will request a review of their situation, the tax authorities have agreed to comply with the EU Court’s interpretation for those vehicles to be taxed in IUC category A. To update the vehicle registration and apply the new tax the taxpayers should do the following: a) For vehicles imported from the EU or European Economic Area after 01-01-2018, and having only a previous registration, the tax authorities have the necessary information and there will be no need to update the registration of these vehicles; b) For vehicles imported between from 01-07-2007 and 01-01-2018, at the time of paying the IUC tax, the taxpayer must confirm the date of the first registration of this car in the European Union or the European Economic Area. This information will be registered through the tax portal, in a specific functionality that will be made available soon. If you have any other questions, please feel free to contact us; we aim our expertise and know-how to work to your benefit, keeping you tax compliant while paying only the legal minimum. Contact our office and book an appointment to find out about the tax strategy that might be more effective in your specific situation. ricardo@allfinance.pt
February 2020
Finance
Currency outlook
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BP/EUR fluctuates on Bank of England speculation – what next? The GBP/EUR exchange rate got off to a poor start to 2020, with the currency fluctuating between €1.16 and €1.18 in response to Bank of England (BoE) speculation. EUR/GBP, meanwhile, fluctuated between €0.84 and €0.87 while GBP/USD drifted to $1.30. What weakened the pound? While the spectre of Brexit continues to hang over Sterling, the pound’s recent losses have been the result of Bank of England (BoE) interest rate speculation. In January several BoE policymakers hinted about a possible rate, including Governor Mark Carney who said the bank would respond ‘promptly’ if economic weakness persisted. This speculation has been fuelled by a run of underwhelming UK data, including a surprise contraction of growth in November, the lowest inflation reading in over three-years and poor retail sales results. However, the pound did derive some support from the UK’s latest employment report as the data revealed sturdy wage growth and historically low unemployment. 3 things to watch out for in the month ahead… The currency market is always moving, but we’ve picked out the three things we think will have the most impact on the GBP/EUR exchange rate in the month ahead.
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Brexit While PM Boris Johnson appears confident that a trade deal with the EU can be secured before the end of 2020, others are less certain. Now that Brexit day has come and gone investors will be keenly focused on progress in trade talks. If things appear to be progressing well the pound could climb, but any increase in tensions between the UK and EU or rising no-deal fears would be pound-negative. Potential impact on GBP/EUR: NEUTRAL/NEGATIVE
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UK Services/Manufacturing PMI The final UK services and manufacturing PMIs for January could inspire GBP/EUR exchange rate movement at the beginning of February. If it looks like UK economic output improved at the start of 2020 the pound may enjoy a stronger footing. However,
In the current climate of concern, Jose Almeida of Currencies Direct looks at how GBP/EUR will move in 2020 signs that manufacturing and services are still struggling would weigh on the British currency. Potential impact on GBP/EUR: NEUTRAL/NEGATIVE
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Eurozone retail sales The Eurozone’s retail sales report is February’s first notable data for the currency bloc. At the moment economists are forecasting a decline in consumer spending. If that estimate proves accurate it would be euro-negative. Potential impact on GBP/EUR: NEUTRAL/POSITIVE Top tip for making your money go further If you need to move money to or from Portugal in the weeks ahead, here’s our January top tip for getting a better return for your currency transfers. Take advantage of rate alerts The GBP/EUR exchange rate has experienced some dramatic movements over the last four weeks and all the volatility makes it hard to plan the right time to make a currency transfer. However, leading currency providers like Currencies Direct offer a range of handy services to help you take advantage of positive market movements. Rate alerts are one such service. Simply set the exchange rate you’d like to achieve (through your online account or over the phone with your account manager) and Currencies Direct will alert you by text and email as soon as the market moves to that level. You then have the option to make your transfer then and there, or set another rate alert. You can set up to five rate alerts at a time, so you’ll know straight away if the market moves in your favour. Please get in touch if you want to know more about the latest news or how it could influence your currency transfers. Since 1996 we have helped more than 275,000 customers with their currency transfers, so why not give us a call to find out more. For detailed information, please contact the local office by phone or visit the Currencies Direct website to register to receive regular updates on the currency markets. And do mention Simply Algarve magazine as how you heard about us. T: +351 289 395739 W: currenciesdirect.com/portugal
February 2020
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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
LOULÉ XX AL-MUTAMID MUSIC FESTIVAL
ANTI-VALENTINES DJ BRUNCH
SWAP MARKET
LOULÉ TOWN WALKING TOURS
KRAV MAGA
HEALTHY FAST FOOD WORKSHOP
Cine-Teatro Louletano 8 February, 21:30 - 22:30 Celebrating its 20th year, this event showcases music and dance from North-west Africa and the Middle East. For tickets and more information: cineteatro.cm-loule.pt ¤12 per person/¤10 for over 65’s and under 30’s.
Cafe 8100, Parque municipal de Loule 8 February, 14:30 Do you have clothes, books, shoes or other accessories that you no longer like, don’t fit you or you simply don’t use? This is a chance to swap them for something you like and give your old items a new lease of life at no cost! For more information visit facebook.com/greenvibe.pt/ Email hello@greenvibe.pt or call 969 825 873
João Paulo Krav Maga Academy Every Monday and Wednesday, 20:00 - 21:30 Get active! Come and learn this practical, simple, easy to learn martial art. Taught by João paulo,krav maga expert. For more info visit joaopaulokravmaga.pt
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Jaya - Coffee Co. & Brunch 15 February, 12:00 A themed brunch with unlimited coffee and Orange juice, with music from Dj Bruno Jorge. Reservations only. For more information or to reserve your spot send a message on facebook here: facebook.com/jayacoffeeco
Location given on registration 27 February, 10:30 - 12:30 Interesting historical walking tour of Loulé. Perfect for you to see this town in a new light or a fun excursion for when you have guests. Hosted by Expat Centre Portugal. ¤15 or ¤10 for members, includes ticket to Loulé castle. For more information and Resgistration go to expatcentreportugal.com
Loulé Coreto Hostel 1 March, 15:00 - 18:00 Learn how to make quick vegetarian burgers and pizzas that are easy to prepare and perfect to freeze for when you’re in a hurry or don’t feel like cooking! For more information call 289 411 063
February 2020
QUINTA DO LAGO
BOTANICAL ART
SOUL SPACE
THE CAMPUS 8 - 9 February The Campus is going to be hosting Healthy Minds Algarve’s two-day immersive workshop dedicated to mindfulness and wellbeing. Featuring a series of workshops with speakers who are leading specialists in the fields of performance psychology, emotional intelligence and mindfulness. Tickets can be found here: www.healthymindsalgarve.org.
THE BEATLES TRIBUTE
VALE DO LOBO
DANO’S 22 February, 21:00 - 00:00 Take a trip down memory lane with a live performance from the best Beatles tribute band in the Algarve, The Peackles! On the 22nd February, head over to Dano’s for a performance that will take you on a journey of Beatlemania, from She Loves You to I Am the Walrus and beyond. With great food, beers and cocktails at, enjoy an unforgettable night with the sounds of Liverpool’s most famous export. For more information call +351 289 351 901 or email danos@quintadolago.com
Vale do Lobo Artistic Space 8 February, 10:45 - 12:00 Make your own terrarium and find out how therapeutic it can be! For more information: 289 353 322 / tourism@vdl.pt
RHYTHM & SOUND
Vale do Lobo Artistic Space 15 February, 10:30 - 12:00 The Rhythm Workshop serves exactly to explore sounds, rhythms, musicality’s, styles, times and cultures. The main aim is to observe the rhythmic characteristics, the silences and the instruments of other cultures, at the same time that different melodies and rhythms develop. For more information: 289 353 322 / tourism@vdl.pt
JAZZ NIGHT BY THE OJA QUINTET
Vale do Lobo Auditorium 22 February, 20:30 - 22:00 Jazz Night by the OJA Quintet (Algarve Jazz Orchestra) in a concert that promises a memorable show of pure musicality that appeals to dance rhythms in a very relaxed atmosphere. For more information: 289 353 322 / tourism@vdl.pt
S I M P L E TAS T E . P T
February 2020
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Agenda
FARO
OTHERS
MARCO CINELLI & DANNY DEL TORO
Club Farense Faro 7 February, 22:00 - 23:30 Marco Cinelli & Danny del Toro come to Faro to present their album “Delta Overflowin’”, acclaimed by critics as an essential Blues album. For more information: cinellideltoro.com Tickets are available for sale at the concert site or you can book them at associacao.blues.algarve@gmail.com
LIMPEZA DA PRAIA DE FARO
Praia de Faro 9 February, 10:00 - 11:30 Volunteer your free time to join the group and clean up Praia de Faro. For more information visit facebook.com/StrawPatrol
UNTITLED INVITES...CURTEA VECHE
LAssociacao Musicos 15 February, 22:00 - 04:00 UNTITLED FARO are teaming up with UK label Curtea Veche to bring you an unforgetable night of House and Techno. For more info check their instagram @untitled_faro
SATURDAY NIGHT FEVER
Teatro das Figuras 15 February, 21:30 - 23:15 A Portuguese take on the well known musical. For more information: facebook.com/yellowstarcompany
JORGE SALGUEIRO PIANO AND ORCHESTRA CONCERT
Teatro das Figuras 7 March, 21:30 Jorge Salgueiro’s Piano and Orchestra Concert was commissioned especially for the 4th Algarve International Piano Festival, and has its world premiere at the Figuras Theatre in Faro. The Concert will be performed by young pianist António Cebola and the Central Classical Orchestra, conducted by Jan Wierzba. For more information: 365algarve.pt / artedosul.pt +351 968 741 664 / batutamota@gmail.com
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ALGARVE BIKE CHALLENGE ����
Tavira 7 - 9 February Save the date! Find out more: algarvebikechallenge.com
CHARITY VEGGIE DINNER
Quinta Estrela Montes 14 February, 19:00 - 23:00 Fancy something different this Valentine’s Day? The Farmhouse Project is excited to announce their first ‘Charity Veggie Dinner’ held in the wonderful Estrela Yoga retreat, tucked in the hills of Boliqueime. All food proceeds from the night will be going to the orphans of Santa Casa da Misericórdia de Albufeira For tickets and more information: thefarmhouseproject.pt@gmail.com Price ¤35.00 per person Only 30 seats available so book quickly!
JAZZ CLUB
Museu do Traje do Algarve, São Brás do Alportel 16 February, 17:00 Manuela Lopes sextet presents her new album. “Apenas família ” is her latest album produced and recorded in Faro. In it, 10 original themes by Manuela Lopes expressed in a very particular way, a voice full of musicality and passion. For more information visit amigos-museu-sbras.pt/en
THE BOTTLES
Pedras D’el Rei, Tavira 16 February, 18:30 Rock the night away to sounds of the 60s and the Beatles whilst celebrating the theme of the circus and carnival. Ticket price is ¤30 for members and ¤35 for nonmembers and includes 3 course dinner - couvert, vegetable soup, veal stroganoff and fruit with ice cream. Ticket price includes wine or beer, water, tea and coffee. Circus fancy dress (or embrace the Portugal carnival) optional but highly recommended. Profits to East Algarve Bombeiros Tickets: pinkflamingocroquet.com
February 2020
toldos - awnings sun wind rain protection
toldolanda
info@toldolanda.com | www.toldolanda.com | 914 609 517
February 2020
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Golf
SWING THROUGH
Following on from our previous article in Simply Algarve, where we covered the top of the backswing we would like to continue and discuss the follow through.
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any golfers assume that once they have hit the golf ball, what happens next is irrelevant. This is 100% false, as a balanced follow through in your golf swing isn’t just for show – it has a very important role… That role is to link the start position (top of the backswing) and the finish position together so that your body can repeat the move time after time. If your follow through position is out of balance and inconsistent, what happens before that is likely to be out of balance and inconsistent too.
• 95% of your weight should be on your left foot (for right handers)
Let’s break it down... • Your momentum and the speed of the club should pull you round and upwards, to a balanced finish
To help design an efficient practice routine tailor-made to help achieve ‘the best you’ golf swing, Contact Richard or Eddie E: sales@algarvegolfguru.com W: algarvegolfguru.com And do mention Simply Algarve magazine as a point of referral.
• Check that your belt buckle and chest is facing the target for short to mid irons. For longer irons and woods your chest should be faceing slightly left of the target
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• Check that your right foot is touching the ground with the toe of your golf shoe, not resting on the ball of your foot, which would cause too much weight to stay on your back leg. You should be able to hold your finish position till your golf ball lands, if not, this is an indication that something is wrong and if these tips don’t help then get a professional to take a look and help!
February 2020
SPORTS NEWS
Brought to you by Chris Wright
TOUR DE ALGARVE The 46th Volta ao Algarve will take place from 19th to 23rd February and will end with an individual time trial in Lagoa the day after the traditional stage with a summit finish at Malhão. The first stage of over 200 km starts in Portimão and finishes in Lagos, in the same place where Fernando Gaviria, Dylan Groenewegen and Fabio Jakobsen won in previous years. The second stage starts in Sagres and the finish line will be at Fóia, the highest point of the Algarve at 900metres. (900 metres). The sprinters will have another chance on the third day of race from Faro to Tavira. For the final weekend, the race offers two decisive stages, one for climbers and the other for time trialists. The fourth stage starts in Albufeira and finishes at the top of Malhão The 2020 Volta ao Algarve will end in Lagoa with a 20.3km individual time trial in the same route of the two previous years, when Geraint Thomas and Stefan Küng took top honours. www.voltaaoalgarve.com ALBUFEIRA WELCOMES BEACH SOCCER ICON Madjer, recently considered by the France Football newspaper as “the best player in the history of beach football”, will be the special guest at the Albufeira 2020 Sports Gala, which will take place on the 7th February, starting at 9 pm, in the Municipal Sports Pavilion. 42 year-old João Victor Saraiva, known as Madjer, will join athletes and coaches from Albufeira who have distinguished themselves over the past year. Madjer became the first player to score 1,000 international beach soccer
career goals in an 8–1 win against England in September 2016. At the 2005, 2006, and 2008 World Cups Madjer won the golden boot for most goals scored in the tournaments. In December Portugal lifted the coveted FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup with victory over Italy in Paraguay. It is only fifteen years since FIFA became the global governing body of the sport and during that time Portugal has won the title on three occasions. The irregularity of the soft-sand playing surface leads to a totally different style of play than is used in football, with a greater degree of improvisation. The compact field, much smaller than a normal football field, allows players to score from anywhere on the sand, leading to an average of sixty attempts at goal in a single game. With an average scoring rate of one goal every three or four minutes, around eleven goals are scored in total during an average game. PORTIMONENSE FACING RELEGATION Following a 3-0 defeat at bottom club CD Aves, the Algarve’s only Primeira Liga club parted company with their manager António Folha. After having a good season last year Folha and his team have won only two games this season and find themselves in penultimate place in the top flight. Bruno Lopes, until now coach of the U23 squad, has been appointed caretaker coach. During the month Portimonense face tough away games Sporting (9th February) and FC Porto (23rd February). Home games at the Portimão Municipal Stadium: 15th February 3.30pmMoreirense and 23rd
February 2020
February 8.30pm V.Setúbal. FARENSE STUTTER If Portimonense fail to avoid the drop then SC Farense could take their place. The Segunda Liga leaders were ten points clear of the third placed Mafra at the start of the year but after consecutive 3-0 defeats against Benfica ‘B’ and Penafiel plus a 0-0 home draw with SC Covilhã, they now find the gap has dropped to four points. Home games this month at the Estádio de São Luís (behind Faro Hospital): weekend 14th/15th February UD Oliveirense; weekend 29th February/1st March Ac Viseu. THIRD TIER NATIONAL FOOTBALL The top two teams in the four divisions of the Campeonato Portugal qualify for the end-of-season playoffs in May to decide the two teams promoted to the Segunda Liga. SC Olhanense led the way in Division D until last month when a change of manager coincided with a run of four draws in six games culminating with a 1-1 draw at Armacenenses. The team from Armação de Pêra revelled in the blustery conditions and despite going a goal down in first-half drew level fifteen minutes from time when João Silva arrowed in a free-kick from the right-wing touchline. DC Louletano, having won four and draw one of their five games since mid-December, moved into play-off contention just four points below Olhanense who they play at the José Arcanjo Stadium, Olhão (behind McDonalds on the EN125) on the 9th February kick-off 3.00pm
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Last word
Parting words...
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Winter in the Algarve can sometimes be gloomy, but from the grey skies and rainfall comes the beautiful Almond blossom. The way there came to be so many of them is an interesting Portuguese legend. Jake Cleaver tells us all
f you are at a loss for something nice to say to somebody you care about (and you want to be a really smooth Spanish encantador), you might consider this - “Quiero hacer contigo lo que el invierno en el Algarve hace con los Almendros”. Now, some of you may have noticed that this is a blatant misquote of the Chilean Politician and Poet Pablo Neruda, who expressed a very similar sentiment about the Cherry blossom in the Spring in his home country. However, i’m sure if he were to see how beautiful the Almond Blossom here in the Algarve is - he wouldn’t mind too much. We’re both getting at the same thing. We want to see you Bloom! For anybody feeling the winter blues after Christmas and New Year - thinking that there’s nothing to look forward to until the summer buzz returns.. how wrong you are! This next spin around our favourite fireball starts off strong, with one of the major White highlights of the year (Another one being the Noite Branca) - the event that truly turns the Algarve into a Winter Wonderland - the Almond Blossom! Starting in early January and going through till late March (or until the wind gets up), the Almond Trees, who, up until now have been quite quiet and unassuming - start taking it in turns (Nobody tries to outshine anybody else) to KA-BLOOM! and explode into beautiful white and pink flowers! (Incidentally, you might be interested to know that if you spot one of the more elusive pink flower trees - they are the bitter almonds. This is the more pleasant way to find out. Rather than tasting them later on!) The explanation for why we are blessed with so many Almond trees here in the Algarve is also lovely. The legend goes something like this:
that day on, all her sadness disappeared. The King and his beautiful Queen lived happily ever after.”
Some of you might be sceptical of this story. Was the King really so desperate to get his Queen to smile that he sent his servants for a swim in mid winter? Remember, it was them that would be preparing his dinner later! Or, maybe you think that it’s ridiculous that just a little blossom could make the Royal couple happy forever? And perhaps you are right. Life is complicated. No matter who you are. But sometimes, on cold crisp days. When the sky is that deep Algarve blue we love so much, and the sunlight is shining through the grass, and you see the first beautiful Snowball on the tree - with the promise that everyday more and more of those little buds will pop open like, well - popcorn. I think that, maybe, it’s true.
“Once upon a time, the King of Portugal wed a Nordic Princess. They were very much in love. But, every winter the new Queen would get very sad. The King tried all he could think of to cheer her up. He took her on holiday to The Algarve. He showed her the beautiful beaches. He even had his servants go skipping and pirouetting into the sea wearing their finest attire. But all to no avail. As beautiful as the Algarve is in the winter - she missed the snow of her homeland. The King was at a loss of what to do. But one day when out horse riding through the green fields in February, he noticed a lone tree with the most beautiful white flowers. It’s then that the King had his epiphany. He ordered that trees like this should be planted as far as the eye could see. The next year when the King and his Queen came back down South for the winter, the Queen stepped out of their holiday Palace, and looked up to see all the trees covered in white - just like she remembered from her childhood and snow in the form of Almond Blossom came swirling and twirling down on the wind and fell at her feet. From
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Quiero hacer contigo lo que el invierno en el Algarve hace con los Almendros
February 2020
AFM-Boat-2017-B5
20-02-2017
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February 2020
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Europe's Best Golf Venue *Membership prices for anual subscriptions.