Sam_Jan19 by Richard Bassett

Simply

FR E

January 2019 Issue 33

Loulé, Almancil, Vale do Lobo,

Quarteira, Quinta do Lago, Vilamoura, S. Brás

Welcome... At the end of one year and the start of the next, one almost always looks back at achievements with a smile of satisfaction, and mistakes as an indicator of what needs improving, and then looks forward to the year ahead with a plan in mind. Isn’t that what resolutions are all about? Here at Simply Algarve we have a list going, and a priority is to continue driving the magazine forward with ever-more entertaining content covering topics you have stated an interest in. What has been really satisfying for us in the past year, is your reaction to the Simply formula and your request for more. And that’s precisely what we aim to deliver in 2019 – more news, more views, more people, more places. A pat on the head from readers is an indication of success and underpins that Simply Algarve has a personality of its own, so thank you for your comments, your questions and your ideas. Another resolution of ours is to get YOU more involved each and every month. Got an opinion? Let’s hear it. Got a favourite restaurant/book/beach? Then share it. Want to rave… or rant? Use us as a sounding board. We’re are proud of this issue, the first for the year. Hope you, too, enjoy it.

PUBLISHER Richard Bassett

EDITOR Richard Bassett

ART DIRECTOR Jake Bassett

WRITERS

DISTRIBUTION

6,000 copies printed. All advertisers are issued copies for distribution, along with retail outlets.

COVER PHOTO Jake Bassett

Susi Rogol-Goodkind Anthony Martin

ADVERTISING

Call Jake on 966 044 143 or email 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 publication.

Unipessoal Lda

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Contents UPFRONT 4

GRACIOUS LIVING

SNAP 8

THE PROPERTY MARKET 28

Our news round up

Loal photographers favourites

CHARITY 12 Another success for ACCA

GOOD READS

VROOM SERVICE

Book ‘em

Roaring through Loulé

ARTY-FACTS 22 A visit to Martina

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Property of the month

Is Brexit talk affecting prices?

GETTING INVOLVED

RESTAURANT GUIDE

MONEY MATTERS

Volunteers needed

Your choice, your taste

How the Euro is doing right now

FINANCE 38

20 SIMPLY DELICIOUS

Tom Kerridge dishes up a treat

AGENDA 42

What’s un-missable this month

GOLF 46

Pro tips from PGA professionals

SPORTS NEWS

Brought to you by Chris Wright

EXPATS 50

Tales from an expat in Portugal

Vital tax documentation

Susi RogolGoodkind is a freelance journalist/ editor who works between the UK and the Algarve where she and her husband have had a home for 30 years. She is also a member of the ACCA children’s charity committee. susi@rogol-goodkind.com

Upfront...

Keep up to date with this month’s news

SILVES LYNX COME BACK HOME FROM SPAIN

odrigo Serra, director of the National Centre for Reproduction of the Iberian Lynx, located near the Arade Dam, has announced that the remaining of the 29 moved to Spain as the Monchique fire advanced on Silves in August, are returning to the Algarve. He expects to receive them by the end of this week as the repair work to fire-damaged areas has been completed. The animals had been taken to the safety of centres in Andalucía, Extremadura and Castilla la Mancha, where they have been for the past four months. The Secretary of State for Nature Conservation, Célia Ramos, this week visited the Silves centre to inspect the repaired enclosures and the new water sprinkler system. Of the 29 Iberian lynxes sent to Spain, only 26 will be coming back as one old lynx died and two others will be released into the wild from their Spanish foster home. The first 14 lynx returned on December 5, as work to their accommodation was complete.

Serra said this operation is delicate as the animals naturally suffer a degree of stress when being moved around. “It’s always complex, but the first animals have settled in much better than we expected under the circumstances, we’ll wait and see what the next few months show us about their adaptation and well-being,” said Rodrigo Serra. The repair and improvement work was carried out with funding from the Institute of Nature Conservation and the Environmental Fund. Célia Ramos said: “It is important to demonstrate that, with the on-going work and commitment of the people who work here every day, it is possible to carry out these projects.” The Monchique wildfire that had swept into the neighbouring county of Silves, having already affected areas of Portimão and Odemira, was declared over on 10 August after a full week,

CINETEATRO SÃO BRÁS UNDERGOING LIFESAVING REVAMP

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sources: algarvedailynews.com

n 21 December 1952, the Cineteatro São Brás opened its doors with a showing of the romantic classic, Duas Causas, with Artur Semedo and the locally-born actress, Mariana Vilar. Some 66 years later, there again is cause for celebration as the theatre is undergoing a revamp costing around €100,000. The stage area is being upgraded and made safe, there is to be a new projection screen, automatic curtains and new equipment to ensure the building can continue as intended at the heart of the community. The investment is part of the Urban Action and Regeneration Plan being auctioned by the Council which expects to receive 65% back from the European Community under CRESC 2020. “In the service of culture, the Cineteatro São Brás has been the main stage for the great moments of community life in São Brás. for the past 66 years and will continue to be. It is a meeting place, a space for debate and reflection, a stage for a wide variety of shows and occupies a very special space the heart of the Sao-Brasenses,” gushed a Council statement. The Cineteatro was the idea of a group of friends who loved cinema and created the Unidos company to get the Cineteatro built and operating. They decided that São Brás de Alportel needed a central arts venue and when it opened locals queued to watch that movie and its famous ‘staring at the full moon with fishing boats in the background,’ scene which, despite the schmaltsy music, still gets audiences. Duas Causas had its debut at the Trindade cinema in Porto and received great praise from critics. Its Algarve showing in São Brás, just 26 days later, was received with great pride and acclaim, especially for ‘the local girl made good,’ Mariana Vilar.

HOT NEWS: VIV THOMAS’S COOK BOOK PUBLISHED

ou may well recognise the book here – we previewed it some months ago and author Viv Thomas let us use one of his recipes. Well, those of you who have been asking the when and where of getting a copy, can now relax and shop – email vivthomasportugal@gmail.com s. I’m No Chef but I Can Cook contains the foodie adventures of photographer Viv Thomas, communicated through entertaining anecdotes, beautiful images and delicious, easy-to-make recipes gathered from an eclectic mix of family, friends, restaurateurs and chefs-who’vebecome-best-friends from around the world. Here you’ll find the authentic flavours of Portugal, Mozambique, South Africa, the Maldives and the Alps; if you love simple yet tasty food prepared with genuine passion, you’ll love the way Viv does it. Born in 1948 in South Africa, Viv attended school in Rhodesia (now Zimbabwe) where he developed his love of rugby. He moved to Swaziland where he met his wife, Avril Mouton, a showgirl, which led him to become one of world’s biggest glamour photographers; Viv was also an icon in the adult film industry. After doing what he loved for 35 years, he sold his company and now, living in Tavira, he and Avril have a buzzing business creating spicy Piri Piri condiments, chilliboy.com. “My friends and family were forever asking me for my recipes but basically everything I devised was off the top of my head, with a pinch of this and a dash of that. I never really knew exactly what I put into a dish, so I started keeping notes.”

I’m No Chef but I Can Cook goes behind the scenes – to where and how the recipes came about. Each recipe has a heart and a soul and a history. “And it you want to add something special to make the recipe your own – go ahead,” says Viv. “Likewise, if a recipe contains some-thing you don’t enjoy, coriander for example, substitute it with parsley. Have fun and be adventurous.” Viv sold his business and officially retired on a Friday, the last day in June. “The next morning I woke up, made a cup of coffee and walked out onto my terrace and thought: ‘What am I going to do?’” He started cooking in earnest, writing down recipes, measuring things – “sometimes I forgot to measure ingredients, so I had to go back and redo the dish. The project took on a whole new reality then.” Viv is already working on a follow-up, focusing, unsurprisingly, on spicy, hot food. I’m No Chef but I Can Cook (will be published by Olympia, 14 February, €30pb, €50hb), ISBN 9781848978386.

WOOF

etting your dog off the leash is always a bit of a worry, but you can keep track of it with the Mishiko, a small puck secured to its collar. It has GPS and a built-in data phone that sends your pet’s position continuously to your mobile, accurate to within 4m. It even has a light to help you find the dog in the dark. The Mishiko also has motion sensors to monitor the dog’s activity, so you can make sure it gets enough exercise. It is also waterproof so when your dog dives in the pond it will survive. Recharging is wireless so all you have to do is take the collar off and plonk it on the charger when you get home – the charge should give you a full day’s use. Available from Amazon.

FARO BRIDGE...A JOKE TOO FAR

he latest step has been taken in an attempt to build a bridge to Faro island, a long-running saga that has kept locals and newsrooms entertained for years. The new tender is for €3.5 million, €1.12 million higher than the last tender in October that not a single contractor was lured by, as it was based on out-of-date figures. This latest tender was published by the Polis Litoral Ria Formosa Society, a company due to cease to exist on 31 December after twice cheating death with two, 12-month extensions. Faro Council said that it has topped up the tender price with over a million euros of ratepayers’ funds as: “this additional investment in the construction is due to the lack of funding from the Polis and the Government.

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Faro Council has been led a merry dance and handed over €900,000 in 2009, followed by €561,000 in 2016, imagining that throwing money at the company would get the bridge built: it hasn’t. Faro’s Mayor Bacalhau ignores the appalling waste of ratepayers’ funds on a project for which the Council is not responsible, claiming the additional €1.12 million was “the only possible solution, taking into account the need to increase the levels of service, safety and comfort of users accessing Faro beach” – note that he did not mention those that live on the island. The new bridge, says the Council, “will be even more efficient than the current one from an environmental, architectural and navigational point of view.”

Upfront... QUEEN AWARDS A MEMBER OF THE SIMPLY TEAM

ong ratulations go to Simply Algarve’s sports reporter, Christopher Wright, who has been honoured in the Queen’s New Year Honours List with the award of the British Empire Medal for services to charity and the community in Portugal.

In December, the GNR, stepped up patrols on the busiest routes to ‘help drivers along their way’ and caution or fine those who, despite adequate warning and inadequate penalties, fail to ensure their own safety and that of other road users. The patrols made 218 arrests and registered 6,912 vehicle-related infractions between the 21st and 27th, with 304 drivers done for drink-driving, 144 of whom were deemed to be so drunk that they had committed a criminal offence. The roll call of the terminally idiotic includes 25 arrested for driving a vehicle illegally, 4,079 for speeding, 408 for not having a valid vehicle inspection certificate, 263 for driving vehicles with malfunctioning lights, 202 for not wearing a seatbelt or having the wrong category of child seat, 189 for driving while using a mobile phone and 1,236 who felt driving without insurance was an acceptable practice.

GIVING SPORTING YOUNGSTERS AN AMAZING OPPORTUNITY

xciting news is that is doing the rounds now is that Quinta do Lago is to be the home of the world’s first sporting Sanctuary for youngsters from disadvantaged backgrounds. The venture, Santana Sporting Sanctuary, will provide young people with dreams of creating a better life for themselves through sport, with a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to train and learn with the best International coaches, nutritionists and emotional performance advisers; they might even get the chance to meet their sporting heroes, who focus much of their own training here in the central Algarve. Founded by Andrew Brown, an English entrepreneur and philanthropist, the Sanctuary will welcome up to 400 young people from Portugal, France, Italy, the Netherlands, Scandinavia, Spain, Switzerland and the UK to its unique facility within the golden triangle. “Many of today’s European youngsters show incredible potential in all areas of their lives,” says Andrew. “But often, the challenges of early-life experiences leave lasting doubts, low levels of confidence and, in many cases, financial barriers which prevent these amazing young people from following their dreams and starting to believe in themselves. Santana Sporting Sanctuary will provide this opportunity on a free-of-charge basis.” Selected by their own team coach, club mentor, teacher or even a supportive friend, the youngsters will enjoy a unique residential week in an amazing villa located within an exclusive gated community, where many leading international sports personalities have their homes. With an in-house nutritionist, chef, physiotherapist, emotional and performance coach and yoga and conditioning specialist, the young people – between the ages of 10 and 17 – will have the opportunity to explore their potential in an environment geared to support, encourage and nuture talent. Participants will experience the same training facilities as international athletes, many of whom

OPERATION ‘TRANQUILO NATAL’ WAS ANYTHING BUT

come to this area for mid- or out-of-season training. Due to the huge investment in the first few years, a limited number of opportunities are available for youngsters from each of the nine participating countries. This will increase in year three and four. Santana Sporting Sanctuary will also develop its initiative to create an educational trust fund for the youngsters who display the most positive contribution to their group, to their experience during their visit, and to themselves. “Each one of these talented kids has potential and we see it as our responsibility to give them every possible opportunity to achieve their dreams through the unique power of sport,” says Andrew Brown. “Each child will be chosen by their nominator as possessing the dream and belief that there could be something better for them in their lives. It is our responsibility to provide the evidence that there is,” he adds. “We can teach skills, we can teach etiquette, we can even teach resilience. We will definitely not be influenced by wealthy parents, the most well-know schools, or their choice of branded kit.” For further information, Andrew Brown can be contact on 919 770 537 or andrew@santanasportingsanctuary.com

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Snap

PHOTO FINISH

In the start of a new series, we asked a group of keen photographers for the images they feel sum up a particular feeling. This time round, the theme is ‘My Algarve’

Carol Sheridan Sagres fort cliff top at sunset “As the sun dipped into the ocean, around 30 people, couples, families and friends shared the magic.”

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Neil Adamson Fast food for a bee eater “Bee Eaters migrate from North Africa in April. At the salt pans of Tavira, this one simply leaned forward and pecked the passing bee.”

Martin Goodkind The old convent “The nuns are long gone from this now-crumbling convent but the realness of the hill communities remains.”

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Snap

Fred Bos Inspired by the restless sea “A grey day, photographed at Pine Cliffs, Praia da Falésia.”

Marion Griffiths A Portuguese tradition “Beautifully decorated tractors and horses leave Estoi for the annual picnic, to which everyone is invited.”Falésia.”

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Jan Tromp A street in Loulé “A pink house… and a pink blanket; connecting colours.”

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Charity

MAKING A DIFFERENCE Algarve Children’s charity ACCA works year round, fund-raising to support the causes it adopts. At Christmas, it ensured that more than 2,000 kiddiesin need received a gift from Santa

ecognising the importance of an organisation that focused on meeting the needs of underprivileged youngsters, ACCA – the Associacao de solidariedade com os Criancas Carenciados do Algarve – was formed back in 2000 by local residents Jane Oliphant, Andrea Viegas, Caroline Thompson, Mo Daud and Wanda Crawford. Their shared vision was clearly-defined – to help those unable to help themselves, and to make a difference to the health and well-being of children across the region, whether their need was for medical, physical or psychological support.

Today, the charity is run by a voluntary committee of ten, and deals with associations and institutions, orphanages, schools, churches and community centres and thousands of children, staging events that will generate income to pay for essentials such as vital medication, life-changing equipment, and dental work that leads to a life without constant pain. Activities that secure much-needed income for the charity include an annual bike ride around Quinta do Lago, golf and bridge tournaments, Easter and Halloween parties, Christmas markets, and the biggest fund-raiser of all, the annual gala at the Conrad Hotel. The sale of sets of

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cards, produced in conjunction with ArtCatto, and regular tombolas and auctions – made possible by the generosity of ACCA supporters – add to the funds that continue to expand the charity’s reach. Be an angel And one particular programme that has expanded beyond all expectations, is the end-of-year Angels project, which started in 2001. The concept itself is not unique, but its application here on the Algarve certainly is. ACCA gathers together the names of youngsters from deprived backgrounds and whose families are living below the poverty line. These are children, from tiny tots to teenagers, who have never had a Christmas to celebrate, and almost certainly have never had a special gift that luckier youngsters have come to expect. The names come to the charity from The Salvation Army, orphanages, community centres, schools, sometimes Social Security offices and occasionally from parents themselves; every source is verified as reliable by a Committee member. Then, early in October, ACCA approaches every contact available – from businesses to individuals to membership groups – requesting that they take names from the list and commit to buying a gift for a needy child. In its first year, the Angels supplied carefully-chosen and beautifully wrapped presents to 620 children. In 2018, for the Christmas just gone, the figure had risen to an astonishing 2,032. Some supporters donate money to the scheme in which case Committee members and volunteer helpers do the shopping, wrapping and labelling – no small feat when the numbers are so high. Emails circulate between Committee members when

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special items are found. Meanwhile others – golfers for example, collect funds from fellow members, do the shopping, and then deliver sacks full of ready-wrapped presents to the main distribution point at Curiosa, the furniture store in Almancil where a dedicated area is racked up specially for the purpose. And it is heartwarming to know that in the community here, there are dozens of Angels – the valuable volunteers who get involved. They could be estate agents, architects, hairdressers, restauranteurs, secretaries, shop assistants, you name it – and they share one thing… a wish to help the less fortunate. According to Wanda Crawford, Chair of the Committee, volunteers are essential to ACCA’s work, not just for the Angels programme, but year round. All that’s required is a bit of time and a lot of passion. The rewards are immense – a little smile speaks volumes. Interested in helping ACCA achieve its goals? Call Wanda Crawford on 919 617 995

IT’S BEEN A VERY GOOD YEAR… FR E

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201 9 PROMISES TO BE EVEN BETTER… … and you can get involved Got a story to share, a product to promote, an event to publicise? Email simplyalgarvemag@gmail.com or call 966 044 143 14

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Good reads

BOOK ‘EM

On the shelf or on your Kindle, these are the books Simply Algarve readers have picked as their recent favourites HE SAID SHE SAID by Erin Kelly

Hodder & Stoughton ISBN: 9781444797152 I have just read and much enjoyed this book which was a 2017 publication. It opens at a festival in Cornwall to view and celebrate a total eclipse of the sun in 1999. Laura is there with her boyfriend Kit (he is a world-travelled eclipse fanatic). Together they stumble across a couple in a vigorous sexual engagement and they become involved as witnesses in a rape trial at which their recollections do not wholly correspond. The novel proceeds on two time-lines set 16 years apart and I did find myself on odd occasions having to back-check which timeline we were actually in. The book develops from a legal saga into a psychological thriller. It is slow-burning at times but with some wonderful plot and character twists that make sure that the reader is on the edge of their seat and is jolted well clear of any inertia. Brian Sobell

BORN ON A BLUE DAY by Daniel Tammet

Simon & Schuster ISBN 9780340899755 This the extraordinary autobiography of a man with a very rare form of Asperger’s Syndrome. A fractious baby, his parents struggled to stop him crying and he would keep banging his head against the wall. The health visitor insisted that this was normal and that there was nothing to worry about. As a toddler Daniel was fascinated by all the books his parents read, and loved the sound of the rustle of pages being turned over, but a door slamming was extremely upsetting. At the age of four he started having epileptic fits, one so acute he was rushed to hospital. He went to a nursery school, but did not relate to the other children, preferring to feel the texture of the floor and the colours surrounding him. This continued through his schooldays. He would not make friends, but played by himself, exploring numbers and shapes and textures. In 1988, the Olympic games were held in Seoul and he became interested in all the nationalities and knew the capitals of all the countries. His mathematical genius by now was prodigious – he could multiply any numbers in a matter of seconds but he explains that abstract ideas were impossible for him to appreciate, and he was nervous about going anywhere alone. By this time he was the eldest of seven children, all adored by his parents, but he preferred to be in his room while his siblings were playing outside. Finishing school at 18, he applied to work abroad, and went to Lithuania for a year to teach English. Within weeks he was fluent in Lithuanian and he began to relate to the students there. With newly-found competence in dealing with people, he met the love of his life, Neil, a very shy young man. Soon they were happily living together, Neil was a software programme producer and Daniel would be housekeeper and cook the meals. Asked to go to America to meet the savant Kim Peek who was the inspiration for the film The Rain Man they immediately bonded and became good friends. By now Daniel was confident enough to broadcast on radio shows, then asked to go to Iceland where he learned the language in just a week. Daniel speaks frankly about his difficulties, and his pride in overcoming his ability to relate to others. This is a moving and unique story. Ruth Gale

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Good reads WHITE HOUSES by Amy Bloom

Random House ISBN 9780812995664 The relationship between the elegant and aristocratic Eleanor Roosevelt and the decidedly rough-hewn Lorena ‘Hick’ Hickok — whose childhood included being raped by her father — was, to put it mildly, somewhat unconventional. Eleanor was America’s wartime First Lady, married to President Franklin D Roosevelt; Hick fought her way up from the bitterest of beginnings to become an eminent journalist, the first woman to be given a byline in the New York Times. In 1932, Hick was sent to interview the “dull and pleasant” wife of the then Governor of New York, FDR. All very routine but, once the two women encountered each other, a spark was ignited. The political establishment covered up what became a fullon, erotic affair. And long after the death of both women, it was still being played down. Lorena Hickok’s biographer, Doris Faber, described her subject’s liaison with Eleanor Roosvelt as an “unusually belated schoolgirl crush”. This flew in the face of the evidence contained in more than 3,000 letters between Eleanor and Hick released in 1978, a decade after the latter’s death. Writer Amy Bloom read the letters and decided to novelise their contents. The result, in White Houses, is a beautifully wrought, passionate love story. Gerald Jacobs

THE NIGHTINGALE by Kristin Hannah

Pan ISBN 9781447283072 This book is historical fiction although most of the time I felt I was reading a factual book. It is the story of two sisters struggling to cope with the German occupation of their beloved France in the Second World War and focuses on the impact of war from a woman’s perspective both emotionally and physically. It is beautifully written and holds one’s attention from the very start. I lived through their hardships and resented having to leave this book to get on with my daily life. As if surviving the War wasn’t hard enough, a young German officer requisitions their home and they then have to adapt to the turmoil that that brings; the sisters are very different characters and face the problems they encounter in very different ways. This book opens up your heart to the price families had to pay in terms of both their emotional and physical well-being. There is a quote from the book that I think will stay with me forever: “In love we find out who we want to be - in war we find out who we are”. I urge you to read this wonderful book. Loretta Adelson

THE GIRLFRIEND by Michelle Frances

Pan Macmillan ISBN 9781509821525 A girl. A boy. His mother. And the lie she’ll wish she’d never told. This book is a psychological thriller with a plot that twists and turns and the author gives us an insight into the feelings of a protective mother of an only son and his new girlfriend. The Mother, Laura has it all. A successful career, a good marriage to a rich husband, and a 23-year-old son, Daniel, who is talented and good looking. Then Daniel meets Cherry. Cherry is young, beautiful and smart but she hasn’t had the opportunities that Daniel had and she wants Laura’s life. Cherry is introduced to the family but Laura suspects that she is not all that she appears to be. When a tragic accident occurs, a lie is told, and the consequences will change their lives forever. I found this book to be a real page turner and couldn’t put it down. If you are a fan of Gone Girl or Girl on the Train then you will enjoy this book. As a first novel, I thought it was excellent and I shall look forward to reading more from this author. Carol Hoyles

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AFTER THE PARTY by Lisa Jewell

Arrow books ISBN 9780099533689 Liza Jewell’s book, which is warm, affectionate and above all thought-provoking, makes you aware that some couples, however ideally suited at the start, lose their way when living together. It is about a couple who fall madly in love and enjoy a carefree life together. He is an artist and she is the agent of a client whose popularity is fading but who has the opportunity to participate in the TV programme In the Jungle. A couple of miscarriages and two children later, Jem and Ralph feel the stresses and strains of family life and and find they are moving away from each other. This takes them on individual journeys to find themselves and when they do, they realise they are soulmates and simply need to reconnect and recapture their shared past. It is always interesting to know something about the author of a favourite book. Lisa Jewell has produced some 18 novels, including the New York Times bestseller Then She Was Gone, as well as I Found You, The Girls in the Garden, and The House We Grew Up In. In total, her novels have sold more than two million copies across the English-speaking world and her work has been translated into 16 languages. I am sure that After The Party gathered a huge following. Elizabeth Stapleton

THE TEACHING OF BUDDHA

Amazon ISBN 9784892372513 On a visit to Japan, in my hotel room there was a book of the writings attributed to Siddhartha – The Teaching of Buddha – it was just like finding a bible in a western hotel. The content is laid out in short statements, in different sections, rather like the verses in the Old and New Testaments, with stories and commentary, both stimulating and thought-provoking, without being dictatorial. The hotel sold me the book and since then I have dipped into it many many times. It is not a book to be read from beginning to end, but it really gives you food for thought. And this has stimulated my interest in Buddhism and taken over my life. I have read many other books and blogs explaining the history, the changes, the sects (there are as many breakaway groups as there are Christian churches) and the situation in Nepal, Maymar, the Dalai Lama and the peaceful nature of this way of life. Meditation and now-popular mindfulness come from this source. However, none of these other books are as interesting as The Teaching of Buddha as they tend to waffle on about one area and use Sanskrit names which make you lose track of what you are reading. But nothing can replace the initial messages which are so wise and relevant even to this day. Gwenda Daud

THE TATTOOIST OF AUSCHWITZ by Heather Morris

Zaffre ISBN 9781785763649 In the month of the year I was born (April 1942), Lale Sokolov, a Slovakian Jew, was sent to Auschwitz-Birkenau concentration camp where he – because of his language skills – was put to work as the camp tattooist, inking numbers into the arms of his fellow prisoners. Heather Morris had many meetings with Lale, over a three-year period, the intention being to turn his story– one of immense suffering, unbelievable brutality and, amazingly so, love – into a film. However, her book came first. A disturbing account of his life in the camps, his meeting Gita, a girl he tattood as prisoner 34902, his bartering for food for both her and his dying co-prisoners and his uneasy relationship with a camp guard, the book tells of his determination to outlive the war and marry his Gita. I cannot say this it a book to enjoy but it serves to remind us what life was like for many who were deemed ‘not suitable’ to live in the Europe of those times. Martin Goodkind

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Vroom service

ROARING THROUGH LOULÉ

If you’re a keen biker or are just looking for something different to do, take time out on a Saturday and check out the entertainment that goes with some stunning machines!

arly December brought a great festive atmosphere to the centre of the town and the entrance to the main market in Loulé. Giant santas stood on either side of the entrance while a charismatic crowd of Harley Davidson owners, bike fans and visitors to the area formed an enthusiastic audience for the live band performing at the start of the Harley owners Christmas party. Rock ‘n’ roll was the order of the day and a few hours of the great classic numbers could not have been more fitting, especially when backed by the thrilling sound of the comings and goings of dozens of gleaming Harley motorcycles. The atmosphere was electric. The group meets every Saturday in front of the market

with organiser Paulò Madeira in charge. The charismatic Paulò, has organised events and regular meetings for the group for 25 years, which includes visiting Harley bikers who come from across Europe as well as the local Loulé riders who never miss an opportunity for a get-together. Each Saturday, some 30 to 40 bikes pitch up by the market steps – the scene is spectacular. Onlookers are welcomed every week, especially those with an interest in the magnificent machines on show – pre-war models as well as the big contemporary bikes. Thanks to our friend Ben and the group for inviting us to, join them. For more details find Paulò on facebook by searching for Paulòmadeira.

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Arty-facts

GATHERING TALENTS An interior architect by profession, a gift gallery owner by passion, Martina Kaiser opened her LoulĂŠ business in the midst of the 2012 recession and, despite all odds, met with instant success, proof that being and doing something different is what makes you a winner 22

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artina Kaiser was always interested in arts and crafts and ran workshops in the local Montessori school in the South of England where she and her doctor husband lived with their three young children. In 2000, the Kaisers, originally from Germany, made their second major move, this time to Portugal and the sleepy countryside behind Loulé. “I always liked this little town with its historical centre and bustling fish market, and where you could then, and still can, find coppersmiths, potterers and basketweavers,” she says. “Some years later, walking through Loulé with the family, we noticed the number of empty shops in the town centre and I remarked that now, with so many premises to choose from, would be a good time to open a business. The starting point “It was a casual remark, but a sort of light-bulb moment. That same afternoon we phoned around the agents and looked at two potential properties that were up for rent. One week later I was the owner of a small shop in the Rua de Barbacã which is just around the corner from where I am now. It was a quick decision… and I had my own shop, but nothing to sell.” So there was Martina, full of ideas, energy and enthusiasm, with a new baby… an empty shop that needed to be filled – and filled fast. “I went to handcraft markets, visited local artists and tried to make as many contacts as possible. At the same time I was sewing tote bags and colourful sardines and started to design my first jewellery collection,” she remembers.

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The world of arts and crafts and the excitement of discovering new talents became all-consuming for this collector of collections. And, once the shop’s shelves and display cabinets were brimming over with unusual handmade pieces, the business took off, and its fast-earned reputation brought in clients from across the Algarve in search of some special. Just 18 months later, Martina moved into the much bigger premises on a prime corner in Loule’s little walking street, where her shopatelier remains today. Going local Over the years, the business has come to be regarded as a true specialist, with artists from the region creating pieces expressly for Martina. There are mystical magical sculptures of seahorses, fish and other sea creatures by Sylvain and Tara Bongard; porcelain bowls and jars by Anna Westerlund; wallplates, soap dishes and bowls by Ben & Nadrali; and bowls of Martina’s own design that are hand-thrown by Olaria Francisco Eugénio. She has stamps and notebooks by Poeta Azul and wonderful, quirky bags in linen and suiting fabrics by Sennes. My main concern is to buy locally,” she says. “I am in direct contact with the artists who provide me with their unique handmade products. These relationships often develop into close friendships where we can work together and take inspiration from each other. I am able to ask for special editions and unusual colours… Martina’s growing passion for jewellery design took her to fairs to buy beads, gemstones, silver components and other materials to create her own jewellery range and a

Arty-facts

course in silversmithing perfecting her skills. “One corner in my shop has become my creative work space, where I sit at a big table, surrounded by all kinds of materials and if I am not involved with clients I use my time to design and produce. I am lucky to have a great co-worker and in the hectic summer months one of us can look after customers whilst the other is busy making new pieces. Last year we produced around 1,500 necklaces and an equal number of bracelets; occasionally I meet one of my necklaces in the street!” As soon as a new piece is created, it goes on display, so client reaction is immediate and Martina can judge exactly how successful it will be. “Yes, I am aware of fashion trends and bear them in mind when designing, but my pieces will always have my own personal sense of style and touch.” Ensuring the difference And it is her touch, her style statement, and her distinct choice of the artists whose work she carries, that turn occasional shoppers into regular, returning clients. “I think what my customers love most about my pieces is that they are unconventional and only exist in small numbers. I spend many hours traveling, scouting, comparing, and negotiating to find works from other artists and also the material for my

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own jewellery collections. A lot of my time goes into experimenting, creating, beading and rebeading before a necklace is on display. I invest love, passion and pride in every piece that I buy in, or make myself.” Is she copied? “I suppose it is flattering when there are ‘shoppers’ who are obviously keen to imitate my work. Photographs are openly taken and questions are asked about where I buy my material and how things are put together. I try to stay polite and find pleasure in their interest rather than feel offended. My answer is to hand over a postcard with the words: ‘If you think it’s that simple, then do it yourself’. But it is not only perfecting the product offering that is vital to success. Martina tries to position her items so that they are accessible to most people. A guide line would be €20 to €50, though, of course, there are specially commissioned pieces of pottery, handwoven bags and blankets and more exclusive jewellery in silver and gemstones that command a higher price. “I am always on the lookout for new and beautiful items. Jewellery and clothing go hand in hand and as there is little in the way of unusual fashion here in the Algarve, the idea of a special collection was born last year. I started

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a trial run last summer with a small selection of dresses and they were a sell-out. Taking this as a good sign, we will be carrying a range of exclusive linen dresses, linen t-shirts and other natural clothing from this spring.” And moving forward? Here is one lady who genuinely has truly found her own special place. “Often clients ask me if I sell online or if I have other shops in other cities. For me scouting for new artwork, creating new collections and being present in the shop is my priority. And I love the contact with my customers. If I ventured into a bigger business environment or became involved with online activities, I would become more the manager and supervisor of my business and less the creative head and artist. This does not appeal to me; I love being inventive and productive and I agree with the saying: ‘do what you love and you’ll never work a day.’ “But that said, who knows what the future might bring…” Martina Rua 5 de Outubro 68 8100 Loulé 964 222 612 instagram.com/martina.loule/

Property

Property of the YELLOW HOMES Land & Houses Algarve Real Estate Agent since 1995 Tel: +351 289 301 294 Email: info@yellowhomes.com www.yellowhomes.com EN 125, Benfarras Boliqueime (opposite DHL)

AMI: 6232

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month

Rare opportunity for an impeccably presented 3-bed villa in Boliqueime with sea views in a peaceful country setting PROPERTY DETAILS • Beautiful villa in peaceful country setting • Fully walled plot with 2,000m2 land size • Landscaped garden with various fruit trees including apple, pomegranate, peach, lemon, orange and olive trees • 3 bedrooms with fitted wardrobes • 2 bathrooms (1x en suite) • Large living room with gas fireplace and dining area • Fully-fitted and equipped kitchen • Large terraces with magnificent sea views (1st floor) • Laundry room • Electric entrance gate • Heated swimming pool with electric pool cover • Gazebo and outside BBQ • Double glazed windows with aluminium shutters • Air conditioning • Central heating with electric radiators • Solar panels for hot water • Alarm system • Borehole, water softener and cistern • In excellent condition and built in 1999 • Construction size 186 m2 • EC Class B

€650.000 Ref: R-GBT www.simplyalgarvemag.com

Property

The effects of Brexit Report by property expert Paul Greenhalgh GOLF PROPERTIES - VILLAS - APARTMENTS - TOWNHOUSES - PLOTS

AMI: 6232

FONTE SANTA NEAR VALE LOBO - 3 BEDROOM VILLA ON GOOD SIZE PLOT CLOSE TO THE BEACH. Exclusive Listing! This well presented 3 bedroom single storey villa is located in the well-established urbanization in the outskirts of the well-known luxury resort of Vale do Lobo and within walking distance of long sandy beaches. The villa stands on an easy to maintain and completely fenced plot of 1.300 m2. Rare opportunity so close to the beach. Price: €525.000 Ref: SKP-FS EC class F.

Contact us! Our email is info@yellowhomes.com or call us on (+351) 289 301 294 Find out more info on our website www.yellowhomes.com

ith the arrival of 2019, the hot topic of conversation is Brexit. At the time of writing, PM Theresa May had just won a vote of confidence within the Conservative party, but the muchtalked-about Parliamentary vote on the controversial Brexit deal has yet to take place. It is evident that the Government has been incapable of bargaining over the UK´s withdrawal as they are in a position of weakness – the interests of one country pitted against those of a union of 27. After 30 months and multiple negotiations, instead of improving relationship with the EU, we have a withdrawal deal that looks unlikely to be passed by Parliament. Whether the final outcome in this incredibly complicated saga is a soft

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Brexit or a hard Brexit, the question we are continuously being asked by property buyers and vendors alike is what impact Brexit is having on the Portuguese property market? It is impossible to predict the future, but the biggest problem we are faced with is the uncertainty of it all. Whatever the outcome, once it takes hold, confidence will grow as buyers and vendors can take decisions based on fact rather than speculation. The effect on expats There have been some voices of concern about expats living in Portugal suddenly being left adrift when the UK crashes out, and being made to return home. While this isn’t impossible, it is extremely unlikely. Close relations between the two countries are older than the Magna Carta. In school, from an early age, Portuguese children learn that in the 12th century many of the crusaders who helped the country gain independence from Castile and Leon were English. The alliance between the two countries was formalised in 1386 in the Treaty of Windsor and reaffirmed in 1661. The alliance is still valid today and is commonly considered the oldest in the world. There are approximately 200,000 Portuguese nationals living in the UK and roughly 50,000 British living in Portugal, and whilst being an old friend doesn’t necessarily guarantee co-operation in light of a hard Brexit, common sense should dictate that

reciprocated agreements can be implemented quickly and smoothly. There are additional steps that can be taken in order to protect expats in light of Brexit and there are numerous companies able to offer good advice on the various options. Blevins Franks (blevinsfranks.com) is one of them. It is important to point out that many British happily own homes and second residences in numerous nonEU countries including Barbados, Jamaica, South Africa, Switzerland, Turkey, and the USA. In terms of the effect that Brexit will have on the property market in the immediate aftermath, demand may be slightly subdued in some areas in the short-term, but this will simply offer opportunity to buy. With fewer buyers around, there’s less competition and more scope to negotiate on price. Whilst the complexities and uncertainties surrounding Brexit are perceived as the main issue to tackle for the expat community when deciding to buy or sell a Portuguese property, the currencies are playing a far more important role in the equation than many people believe. Money matters Currency fluctuations are nothing new – by definition they go up and down. Holding out to buy or sell a property when the exchange rate is in your favour isn’t an exact science. While Brexit has undoubtedly weakened the pound, property prices outside the non-exclusive resorts in

GOLF PROPERTIES - VILLAS - APARTMENTS - TOWNHOUSES - PLOTS

the Algarve still remain good value compared to other popular holiday destinations within Europe. The pull of the Algarve is still as strong as ever and those able to buy should be encouraged. Even within the shadow of Brexit, 2018 has been another good year with a high volume of sales across all price ranges. Buying a good value new house or holiday home in the Algarve in 2019 will still be possible, but it is important that buyers do not pay over- inflated prices on property. As a buyer, you should always seek the advice and expertise of a local and long-established real estate agent, otherwise you could be the one that pays well over market value for a property. There have definitely been times when property choices were greater and prices were lower but if you are selective about the property agency you use and the opportunities that arise then there is nothing that should stop you enjoying owning your very own property in the sun. On the flip side, British sellers of property are in the enviable position of being able to take advantage of the weakened sterling by taking back considerably more pounds back to the UK whether they have discounted their properties or not. With more property sales happening than property listings coming in, we are eager to list quality properties or plots particularly around the areas of Loulé, Almancil, Boliqueime, Vilamoura, Carvoeiro and Tavira. If you are considering selling your property or plot and would like to speak with a member of our team then please call us now on 289 301294 to make an appointment. We look forward to hearing from you soon. Yellow Homes – Land & Houses Algarve algarvepropertysearch.com algarve-portugal-immobilien.de

AMI: 6232

EXCLUSIVE LISTING - LOULE 5 BED VILLA WITH SENSATIONAL COUNTRY AND SEA VIEWS Located within a 5 minute drive of Loule centre and with spectacular views of the coastline and the sea, is this fantastic family property. Private but not isolated, the villa over 2 floors in a stunning location. The external area has separated is within the gardens including a fruit orchard, stone seating area around a fire pit, lawned areas covered and open terrace areas and the 12m x 6 m heated swimming pool. Ref: P-KOT Price €825.000 EC class E.

Contact us! Our email is info@yellowhomes.com or call us on (+351) 289 301 294 Find out more info on our website www.yellowhomes.com

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Vilamoura Office EN 125, Benfarras Boliqueime 8100 - 068 Boliqueime Tel: 289 301 294 / Fax: 289 301 439 Tavira Office Rua Dr. José Pires Padinha 178 8800 - 354 Tavira Tel: 281 320 281 / Fax: 281 321 901

Getting involved

BANKING ON YOUR HELP We are lucky, living an enviable lifestyle in a glorious part of the country that we have come to call home. For many, putting something back into the community that has treated us so well shows not only appreciation, but also a wish to help those who are less fortunate

wice a year, supermarkets along the Algarve take part in a vital campaign to raise awareness of those who are hungry and to ensure foodstuffs are collected for distribution to the most needy. We talked to Nuno Cabrita Alves, President of the charity institution Banco Alimentar contra a Fome Algarve (the Food Bank Against Hunger), who coordinates the programme and supervises ongoingactivity. Tell us about the project? For the past 11 years, as part of the national campaign, we have run two food collection programmes each year across the Algarve – usually at the end of May and the end of November – under the heading Campanha Nacional de Recolha de Alimentos. Goods collected are warehoused in Faro and in Portimao.

be severely suffering. We distribute 2,000 tons of food annually which represents nearly 92% of the food supplies distributed in the region. How frequently do those on the programme get food packages and how long do they last? Once a month each institution collects and distributes products with an extended life – such as tinned goods and dried items like rice and pasta – from the Food Bank and twice a month they collect fresh goods, like fruit and vegetables.

The Food Banks themselves – do they come under a foundation, or local government? The Food Bank is a community initiative and a private not-for-profit institution. The two warehouses belong to the city councils of Faro and Portimão and are free of all costs. Necessary equipment has been funded by private How many people do you help and how do you find them? donations and the day-to-day expenses we incur are met by We estimate that we deal with around 15,500 people each the city councils and through government initiatives, and year – more in times of crisis, up to some 23,000. The sponsors of the various institutions. families and individuals come to us through 106 different institutions including local councils and social security How do volunteers get involved – what exactly do they do services, each of which has direct contact with those in in the supermarkets and at the food bank? need of support. Volunteers are stationed at the supermarkets that take Without the work of the Food Bank, these people would part in the programme, usually for three-hour shifts. They

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“We have currently 55 volunteers but we are in need of 15 more”

issue shoppers – as many as they can – with carrier bags stamped with details of the most-needed items – milk, oil, cereals, tin food, sausages etc. Those shoppers, hopefully, fill the bag they are given, pay at the checkout, and hand their purchases to the volunteers, who in turn pass them on to the drivers who travel from one supermarket to the next, fill up their car or van and then take the bags to the warehouse. Tell us about the night-time unloading – what happens to the food stuffs collected? At the warehouse there are more volunteers. When the bags are unloaded they are weighed so we know how many tons we have collected. The food is separated by type and placed in containers or on racking. Everyone works so hard but the atmosphere is marvellous – a celebration of people’s generosity and caring for the less fortunate. How many volunteers do you have presently, and how many more do you need? We have currently 55 volunteers but we are in need of 15 more. What else can volunteers get involved with that will help the project? Volunteers are needed to visit the institutions to see how

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the food is being stored and distributed. We also require on-going help with administrative work and in the warehouse itself. And we have a new project called ‘Horta Solidária’ the objective of which is to plant vegetables – we need volunteers to help with that, too. How long does the food collected and stored last the Bank? The food collected in each campaign lasts for six months from collection. At the end of that period, the food bank is completely empty and the campaign process starts again. How old is your oldest volunteer – and the youngest? Ages go from 30 to 75 years old, and many bring youngsters with them for an extra pair of hands. Do you seek money donations, too? And if so, how does one donate? Yes, we accept donations in money although we only seek them for improvements and equipment. Donations can be made through bank transfer to PT50 0045 7100 4021 2076 2355 5. Who does one contact to enquire about volunteering opportunities? An email to Silvia Gabadinho – voluntariosba@gmail.com is a good starting point. We would welcome you.

Dining out

Your ultimate

Restaurant Every month we serve up your choice of eateries. Some are close by, others worth the journey, all tried and tested by Simply Algarve readers

guide

WILD FIRE Vila Sol

Sonia Martins This has become one of our firm favorites when dining out with friends or just for the two of us when we want to feel a little spoilt. The setting is lovely – there’s a beautiful outdoor seating area with decking and greenery and a cool, stylish but cosy interior with a cocktail bar and lounge area. And last but by no mean least there’s a kids’ club to keep those youngsters entertained and safe whilst the parents enjoy dinner at their leisure. Then there’s the food – most important part to me anyway. Fabulous hickory smoked Uruguayan beef, ribs, burgers and huge flavour-laden sharing platters for up to eight people. Side dishes include home-made baked beans with cheese and honey-glazed carrots. For those who prefer not to eat meat there are excellent prawn and fish dishes, risotto and mushroom-filled ravioli. Wildfire also has several ongoing promotions, including a great Sunday roast lunch at a set price of €24 per head for three courses. Personally, I never take desserts but my dinner companions always rave about them here with baked Alaska and Smoked Banoffee always getting the thumbs up. Without question, Wildfire – part of the group that owns the two Parrilla restaurants (the newest one, on the beach, is great when the sun shines), Gourmet Natural and The National Meat Company – is always a pleasure and a treat. Urbanização Vila Sol, 8125-307 Quarteira 289 095 813

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DOM DINIS Albufeira

Jack Chadders We were taken here by friends who live in Albufeira, so it’s a local for them. For us in Loulé, it’s a drive, but one we’d be happy to do regularly since sampling the food by Chief Chef Enrico Strube. Tucked well away from the noise and glitz of the main drag, this big, elegant restaurant offers a wonderful choice of classical Mediterranean and international dishes, served with style and a contemporary twist. But before I go into the menu, I have to comment on the staff who make the welcome warm and are happy to advise on your choices. The starters are a delight and include little duck dumplings with a spicy peanut butter sauce, and panko shrimp with lemon chive mayonnaise. For mains, the vegetarian in our group had fettucine and sautéed vegetables topped with sundried tomatoes, pine nuts and parmesan, and declared it the best mix and mingling of flavours ever, while his partner picked the highlyrecommended jumbo tiger prawns cooked in an orange, ginger and piri piri sauce served with perfectly-cooked basmati rice. As a true carnivore, I had difficulty choosing between the beef tenderloin with a truffle and pinenut sauce, and the lamb chops. I picked the latter and they arrived perfectly pink at the centre and with a delicious red wine and herb sauce. Main courses are well priced for the quality, from €12.90 for chicken breast ‘Café de Paris’ to €23.90 for Beef Wellington. We settled on a lavish shared dessert mix, that included everything from key lime pie and Toblerone mousse, to cheesecake with white chocolate and raspberry sauce. Caminho das Sesmarias, Albufeira 289 591 411

LE MARQUIS Gorjões

Ronald Swyer This restaurant is not on everyone’s radar, but worth getting out the GPS to find it. Situated in the original old buildings at the Palhagueira retirement village, it is a bit of old world charm and a reminder of how the Algarve used to be. It may not be in the Golden Triangle, but the food is as good as you will find in more expensive fine dining restaurants around Almancil. Vincent, the award-winning chef, produces a good selection of fresh dishes using top-quality meat and fish. The menu is not too long and confusing and the carefully chosen wine list is short, but you won’t have a problem pairing a decent bottle with your choice of food. The deserts are exceptional and you would be well advised to leave room to try the chocolate fondant or the individual apple pie and ice cream. The set menu which changes regularly, offers five or six choices of starters and mains, and comes in at a very reasonable €25 for two courses, €31.59 for three. Summertime dining is alfresco, but if you want to enjoy the splendid Sunday BBQ, you will need to book two weeks in advance! Sítio de Gorjões – Monte da Palhagueira, 8005-488 Santa Bárbara de Nexe 916 076 540

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Dining out

O GREGO Almancil

Sharon Henderson Located in Almancil in the quaint and cosy restaurant that was The Pig and Whistle is O Grecco a true specialist in traditional Greek fare. Philippos, the owner, has been in this area for many, many years and his new location has real charm. Here is a man who is passionate about his food and, most importantly, giving his customers the best dining experience he possibly can. The restaurant has a very family feel and requests for specials are always welcomed. There are vegetarian or vegan options on offer and, aware of the growing demand for well-thought out and constructed dishes, Philippos will have the occasional special vegetarian catered evening. There is a set €20 per head price for which you get ten to 12 meze dishes which are absolutely delicious. The food comes quickly and in my experience is always served with a smile. There is a choice of Greek or Portuguese wine and all in all it is terrific value for money. Philippos will not allow you to leave without sharing a glass of ouzo with him and you can chat to him as long a you want… he seems to relish the moment. For a group these sharing plates are so much fun and there is no better place for a birthday celebration. Rua Primeiro de Dezembro 2 8135-142 Almancil 933 242 179

PIRI PIRI Almancil

Louise Star There are many piri piri restaurants and quite a few go by the name Piri Piri. This one is next to the railway track and level crossing in Almancil and stands out from the others. There is a limited menu of starters and main courses, which makes the decision process easy. The Prawn Tempura with Pad Thai sauce is a delicious beginning to a meal and the spare ribs main course, doused in a wonderful sauce, is mouthwatering… and filling. Yes, there is Chicken Piri Piri on the menu, and it is a good one at €8.90. The Fish and Chips never fails to delight and there are always daily specials to consider. Good wines are on offer and a range of excellent desserts if you have room. The staff are friendly and helpful – and they are good with groups, and great with children, making the place a real family first. Rua Vale Formoso 1, 8135-148 Almancil 914 420 004

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A PAISAGEM Semino, Quarteira

David Rubie This classic Portuguese restaurant is situated on the roundabout leading to Vila Sol. Owned and run by Paulo and Maria, it produces fine Portuguese dishes at reasonable prices. Apart from the regular menu, there are always the Chef’s recommended dishes and an excellent selection of fresh fish from the Quarteira market. Skate with a side order of coriander rice, is always perfectly cooked and a delightful fusion of flavours. The Arroz de Marisco (shellfish rice) is a must, as is the picanha which, depending on your appetite, you can have in medium or large portions, with all the traditional accompaniments, including an excellent casserole of black beans. The idea of twosize offerings, or ‘meia’ portions goes down well with families as well as those who enjoyed a good lunch earlier in the day. A fine selection of carefully-chosen wines is available and there are some special house desserts. You won’t be disappointed if you give Paisagem a try; you will be missing out on a treat in you don’t. A very good meal, with wine, should cost €75-€85 per couple. This place is popular and does fill up, so it is wise to book in advance. N396 452A 8125-303 Quarteira 289 313 387

CHURRASQUEIRA LEONEL Loulé

Max Hampsink It took many visits to work out that the early bird not only gets a table but also gets the fastest delivery from kitchen to table. So, Monday night has become our Leonel night, and usually a party of six or so of us pitch up as the lights go on and those ordering a takeaway get in line. The chicken in this humble local is brilliant, with none of the poussin-size legs that pass for chicken elsewhere. It’s worth going for the chips alone – they are freshly cut and fried and have never seen the inside of a freezer. There’s more on the menu – pork, sausages and ribs – but it’s the chicken everyone goes for. And by everyone, I mean everyone; by 8pm there’s not a spare chair to be found and many a hungry customer sits outside, double-parked, waiting for someone to leave and free up a slot for the car and a table for the diners. Advice: Ask for some piri piri to take home. 107B, Rua Afonso de Albuquerque, Loulé 289 414 113

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Finance

Brexit news keeps pound volatile Keep up to date with our currency expert Chantelle, Client Account Executive at Currencies Direct

Much of the pound’s recent weakness has been caused by PM Theresa May delaying the parliamentary vote on her Brexit deal...

he final few weeks of 2018 have witnessed their fair share of currency volatility, with the latest Brexit developments taking a toll on the pound and the euro finding support from Italian news. Over the past month, GBP/EUR has fallen from €1.13 to €1.10 while the GBP/ USD exchange rate has slipped from $1.28 to $1.26. What’s been happening? Much of the pound’s recent weakness has been caused by PM Theresa May delaying the parliamentary vote on her Brexit deal. Although Sterling recouped some of its losses after May survived a vote of no confidence, the renewed focus on a no-deal Brexit kept the currency under pressure. However, losses against the euro were less pronounced than elsewhere as a surprise contraction in German GDP in the third quarter weighed on the euro. Indications that economic output in the Eurozone as a whole is faltering also saw the euro dip against the US dollar. That being said, the euro did gain some support from the news that the EU and Italy have finally come to an agreement over the Italian budget. Meanwhile, the Federal Reserve raised interest rates for a fourth time in December and indicated that further rate hikes could be on the cards next year.

may prove more reliant on data, with the single currency potentially softening if the Eurozone’s ecostats continue to point to a slowdown in the fourth quarter. The ECB’s economic bulletin will also be of interest. A dovish tone from the ECB would be euro-negative. At Currencies Direct we’re here to talk currency whenever you need us, so please get in touch if you want to know more about the latest news or how it could impact your currency transfers. Since 1996 we have helped more than 250,000 customers with their currency transfers, so why not call in into our local Currencies Direct branch in Almancil or give us a call to find out more. For more detailed information, please contact Chantelle at the local office on +351 289 395 739 or alternatively visit the website – currenciesdirect.com/portugal – and register to get regular updates on the currency markets, (do mention Simply Algarve magazine as how you heard about us).

What do you need to look out for? Things started to slow down in the build up to Christmas, but the pound will remain highly sensitive to Brexit developments over the coming month, with the UK’s exit from the EU now less than 100 days away. The euro, meanwhile,

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Finance

IRS: five dates you need to put in your diary Keep up to date with our Finance expert, chartered accountant Ricardo Chaves from All Finance Matters

Your role is important in determining your IRS deductions, therefore check the tax calendar, to make sure you don’t lose any deduction or pay any fines

his year, before you submit your IRS for the year 2018, you need to carry out certain tasks – validating invoices, registering them and appending information are examples of essential procedures taxpayers are responsible for. Your role is important in determining your IRS deductions, therefore check the tax calendar, to make sure you don’t lose any deduction or pay any fines.

Monday 25 February Each taxpayer has until the 15 February to query, report and verify invoices. To do this you should visit the e-Factura portal and access your personal page. There you should verify if all your invoices have been correctly logged. If you find any problems, or any invoice that is not recorded, you can add these to your file. It’s also important to check in which category your invoices are registered. Please note that it’s necessary to move your invoices into the appropriate section (ie health, education, etc) otherwise the deduction will not be accepted. These procedures need to be performed for each household expenditure holder, including dependants. Sunday 31 March Between the 1st and 31st of March, you need to check your page and if you feel the information is not correct, you can contest the calculations made by the Tax Authorities. In other words, your tax deductions will be summarized here, under family general expenses, healthcare expenses, training and education expenses, charges with property for permanent residence, invoices, VAT and costs with foster homes. If the total of your invoices is not consistent with the figure shown in the portal, you have this two-week window to contest it. Please note that it’s necessary to check this for each holder. Monday 1 April – Sunday 30 June This year you can submit your IRS tax declaration for 2018, from the 1 April, until the

end of June. This means that all declarations can be submitted during these three months, irrespective of your income category (employment income, pension income, selfemployment income, rentals etc.) Please note that Non-Habitual Residents, even if their income is only pensions and tax exempt, still need to submit the yearly tax return in Portugal. Wednesday 31 July If you have tax to receive, the settlement must be made by 31 July. This is the deadline for the Tax Authorities to refund you. Saturday 31 August If, however, you have to pay tax, you should make the payment no later than the last day of August, providing you have delivered the tax return within the time limits. If the tax return was submitted after the deadline, payment may be made until 31 December but will attract fines and interest. Last but not least, please remember that if you do not deliver your IRS on time, or if you fail to meet some of the deadlines above, you may lose some or all your tax deductions. Late delivery of your IRS may also cancel your IMI (Council Tax) exemption. There are many other alterations that may affect your IRS and it may come as a surprise that filing a correct tax return in Portugal can save you money. Submitting a tax declaration does not necessarily mean that you pay tax but it may avoid you facing fines for noncompliance and offer you peace of mind. And please remember that irrespective of your tax residency, if you have earned income from a Portuguese source you need to submit the IRS tax return. This includes the sale or rental of Portuguese property. If you have any other questions, please feel free to contact us; tax planning is critical and neither you nor your company can afford surprises. Pass by our office to discuss your personal situation and avoid any late submission fines.

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BRITISH STYLE AUCTION HOUSE

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Direct sales, Business and house clearance service, online catalogue, & Monthly Auctions! Free valuations and Monthly Auctions!

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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.

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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

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Simply delicious

Asian-style griddled squid salad Squid is a useful ‘convenience’ food, as it freezes well and cooks quickly; the freezing process even helps to tenderise it. In this fresh, crunchy salad, squid’s subtle flavour and meaty texture is a lovely contrast, and a punchy dressing pulls it all together Serves 4 275 calories per serving INGREDIENTS • 4 large squid tubes, cleaned • Vegetable oil spray, for cooking FOR THE DRESSING • 3tbsp vegetable oil • 2 lemongrass stalks, white part only and tough outer layer removed, finely chopped • 2 garlic cloves, finely chopped • 2tbsp fish sauce • 3tbsp sweet chilli sauce • 1tbsp light soy sauce • Juice of 1 lime

3 4

Add half of the dressing to the squid. Stir to coat and leave to marinate for 20 minutes.

For the salad, toss all the ingredients together in a bowl. Pour on the rest of the dressing, toss again and place on a large plate or divide between individual serving plates.

Heat a large griddle pan over a high heat. When it is smoking hot, spray with a little oil, add the squid pieces in a single layer and cook for 30 seconds on each side or until lightly charred. Depending on the size of your griddle, you may need to cook the squid in batches.

Place the griddled squid on top of the salad and drizzle with a little sweet chilli sauce. Serve with lime wedges for squeezing over.

FOR THE SALAD • 2 shallots, thinly sliced • 100g mixed baby leaves • 2 handfuls of beansprouts • A handful of coriander leaves • 12 cherry tomatoes, halved • 4 sprigs of mint, leaves picked • 1 long red chilli, finely sliced TO SERVE Sweet chilli sauce, to drizzle Lime wedges METHOD Carefully slice open each squid tube so it can lie flat, and score a lattice pattern on the softer, inner surface. Cut each one into 6 equal-sized pieces and place in a bowl.

To make the dressing, heat the oil in a small pan, add the lemongrass and garlic and cook for two minutes, then remove from the heat. Add all the remaining ingredients and mix well. Leave to cool completely.

This delicious dish comes from the justpublished Fresh Start by Tom Kerridge (Bloomsbury Absolute, £26), which features extra-tasty photography by Cristian Barnett. There’ll be more of Tom’s gorgeous flavours in the next issue of Simply Algarve.

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Agenda

NOT TO BE MISSED:

Each month, Simply Algarve brings you a hand-picked selection of the events on the region’s calendar. There are, of course, many more, but we will focus on the lesser-known and possibly more interesting. Got an event coming up? Email us with the details at simplyalgarvemag@gmail.com

THE ARTS THE NAMES

ArtCatto, Loule On now Make the time to visit this wonderful gallery in the main Avenida with its ever-changing works by top contemporary arts. Right now, there are fine pieces from Dom Pattinson, James Gill and Colin Fraser.

KRISS MACDONALD

Corte Real, Paderne On now British/American photographer and artist Kriss MacDonald, now a resident here on the Algarve, creates gorgeous flower art from home-grown cultivated and wild plants. Simply enchanting and so different.

CARLOS EVANGELISTA

Vale do Lobo Art Gallery Till 14 February If you haven’t taken the time yet to see Concrete Derivation, an exhibition of the paintings and sculptures by Spanish artist Carlos Evangelista, do make the time to visit VdL’s gallery where his work, which includes wood and lacquered steel sculptures, remains for another month.

PATTERN & SYMMETRY

ART WORKS

Museu do Traje Sao Bras Saturday 12 January until 4 March An exhibition of works by talented artists, Zélia Ferreira, Philip Lunn, Luísa Arbiol, Eliza Hafer and Vítor Santos.

Museu do Traje Sao Bras Friday 25 January until 27 March The latest show from the Photographers’ Group of the Algarve promises a selection of inspiring images. It is worth joining the Amigos programme for discounted tickets for various events and concerts; do check out the roster of classes on offer throughout the year – there are some fascinating options for those looking for a new hobby.

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TALKS THE TAVIRA: CITY OF CHURCHES

Municipal Library Tavira Friday 25 January, 11pm Municipal Library Lagoa Tuesday 29 January, 6pm East of Faro lies the fascinating town of Tavira, with a history that dates back for centuries, and a sense of old-world elegance that today attracts visitors from far and wide. More than 30 churches – 13 of which were open to the public last summer – provide Peter Kingdom Booker with material for a talk that brings the distant past and the present together through religious institutions.

Capela de São Sebastião

Igreja da Irmandade

Igreja de São Paulo

HAPPENINGS SAUSAGE FESTIVAL IN QUERENCA

Querenca Sunday 20 January, 10am to 5pm Another tasty experience, this little festival is in honour of St Luis and a sign from the locals thanking him for keeping their animals in good health throughout the year. There are dozens of stands where homemade chorizos are barbarqued and served on chunks of bread, often still warm from the oven. The air is fragranced with spicy aromas, and there is musical entertainment to add to the atmosphere. Go there hungry and enjoy the best sausages ever.

BOLA REIS BONANZA

Avenida Jose da Costa Mealha Sunday 6 January, 5pm If Christmas wasn’t sweet enough for you, do go to the amazing, bola reis festival in the Avenida in the centre of Loulé and join the crowds waiting for a slice of the action. The 150m long cake, the work Louledoce bakery, of will take centre stage, glistening with crystallised fruit and sprinkled with icing sugar. Calorific yes, but worth it.

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Agenda

SPORTS 26TH VALE DO LOBO AMATEUR WEEK

VALE DO LOBO GUEST DAY

Royal Golf Course 19 January Take part in Vale do Lobo Guest Days. The 2019 programme starts this month and the initiative is open to Vale do Lobo Golf Club members and Proprietors Club members who can invite their guests to play at a special price of €50 per green fee. The offer to play is also extended to Vale do Lobo Resort and Welcome card holders. To find out more contact 289 353 463 or email golf@vdl.pt

Vale do Lobo golf courses 20-26 January Bookings are being taken now from those wishing to take part in the hugely popular Amateur Week golf tournament. One of the highlights on the golfing calendar in Vale do Lobo, it attracts golfers from far and wide, all keen to enjoy the competition on the courses and camaraderie in the club house. A week of competition kicks off on the 20th with an induction day and welcome cocktail party. Various rounds and sub competitions will be taking place throughout the week culminating in an entertaining prize-giving dinner and ceremony for golfers and partners. To find out more contact 289 353 463 or email golf@vdl.pt

MUSIC BOREAS

Museu do Trajo São Brás de Alportel Sunday 20 January, 5pm This project is centered on the revision, through original arrangements, of songs which are part of the popular culture and have influenced the members of Boreas. In their first recording, In my Life, there are eight jazz improvisations of masterpieces by the Beatles. Álvaro Vieito, guitar; Xan Campos, piano; Luis Salto, double bass; Jesús Pazos, drums.

CONCERT

Quintinha da Música Tavira Near Tavira Sunday 27 January, 4pm Pianist Nicola Meeuwsen with music by Schubert, Scriabin, Chopin. Tickets €25, contact lynne.algarvehistory@gmail.com

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Golf

New Year’s Golf resolutions!

Ideas from Algarve golf gurus, PGA Professionals Richard Hudson and Eddie Charnock

1. Work on staying fit and improving your flexibility - visit a gym for advice! 2. Take regular golf lessons! 3. Work on your short game, a sure way to lower your score! 4. Develop a pre-shot routine on the range to take on to the golf course! 5. Always use alignment sticks when you practice! 6. Find the best golf ball for you! 7. Talk with your pro to see if your equipment is right for you! 8. Take on board food and drink during your round! 9. Arrive early so you are not rushing to the first tee! 10. Don’t drink coffee or cola before you play! 11. Learn to stretch before you tee off! 12. Keep your clubs clean during play... clean grooves give better feel and control! 13. Repair your pitch marks and encourage your playing partners to do the same! 14. During play don’t get annoyed or frustrated! 15. Improve your on-course management, don’t just rely on hitting good shots! 16. When you finish your round, make notes of positive things that you did! 17. Set a golf handicap goal for 2019! 18. Always stay in the present, don’t dwell on the past! If you would like to contact Richard or Eddie for an opportunity to discuss a coaching plan for 2019 you can find them on at algarvegolfguru.com or email sales@algarvegolfguru.com and mention Simply Algarve as a point of referral.

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Action

SPORTS NEWS

Brought to you by Chris Wright LATE GOALS SINK FARENSE

S J

MOURINHO GETS THE (GOLDEN) BOOT!

osé Mourinho was ‘shown the door’ after 30 months at Manchester United and exactly three years and one day after he was unceremoniously sacked during his second spell at Chelsea. Mourinho won the Europa League and the League Cup during his first season at Old Trafford, but with the club sitting in sixth place in the Premier League – 19 points behind leaders, Liverpool – and after the club’s worst start in 28 years, it was no surprise when the announcement was made. United will now have to pay him a Champions League ‘top up’ having sacked him while the club are still in the Champions European competition. Mourinho was on a basic salary of €20m – which is what Man United were liable to pay in order to dismiss him – the contract included a 25% bonus if the club were still in the running for either of the two main competitions which could bring the total to €25m. Where now for the Setúbal-born coach who started as an interpreter for Sir Bobby Robson at Sporting Lisbon and Porto, before gaining success as his assistant at Barcelona? Real Madrid, Inter Milan and the Chinese Super League have been suggested but who knows where he might re-emerge.

C Farense conceded goals in the last five minutes of their televised games at home to Benfica ‘B’ and away at Estoril Praia in the Segunda Liga. Farense were reduced to 10-men against Estoril when Vanja Marković picked up a second yellow card midway through the second-half. The home side grabbed the winner three minutes from the end through Azerbaijani international Renat Dadashov. Farense maintain their mid-table position some eleven points away from an automatic promotion place.

PORTUGAL & ENGLAND KEPT APART

osts Portugal will face Switzerland, and England will play the Netherlands, in the semi-finals of the Nations League next June. The winners of the inaugural competition will receive €7.5m with the runners-up pocketing €6.5m. The first semi takes place on Wednesday 5 June between Portugal and Switzerland at the Estádio do Dragão, home of FC Porto, whilst the following day the Netherlands play England at the Estádio D. Afonso Henriques in Guimarães.

PORTIMONENSE RELY ON HOME FORM

FERREIRAS STRUGGLE IN CAMPEONATO PORTUGAL

erreiras FC (Albufeira), who were promoted from the Algarve Regional League at the end of last season, have not found life easy this campaign and are currently second to bottom on eight points from 15 games but, more importantly, are nine adrift of the safety zone. The five-goal drubbing at Olhanense was followed up with a goalless home draw against Louletano.

ith Primeira Liga home victories over Tondela (3-2) and V.Setúbal (3-1) the Portimão- based club has maintained a comfortable midtable slot. The 4-1 defeat at league leaders FC Porto was not the only setback in December. Highly- rated Japanese international, Shoya Nakajima, could have played his last game for the club. He has been selected for Japan’s Asian Cup squad (the match takes place this month in the USA) and is also rumoured to be on his way to Wolverhampton Wanderers although other clubs – Leicester and Southampton to name but two - have shown an interest in acquiring his services.

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Last Word

Tales from an expat in Portugal If finding out where you came from helps work out where you are going to, then dip in your pocket, spit in a glass vial, and discover yourself. Anthony Martin liked what he found…

I’ve learned that I am a member of an exclusive tribe who are early risers, have perfect pitch, muscles of elite athletes and will keep their marbles well into old age

ow I don’t normally talk about my health and I’m not about to start now but I’ve just received the results from my DNA ancestry/medical test from a highly-respected company based in Trumpland and, after sending them £124 with permission to delve deeply into my biological makeup, they have come up with around 50-pages-plus all about… me. The main reason for my interest was that my late mother, in the last four years of her life, suffered from Alzheimer’s Disease and I was concerned that I may have inherited the condition. However, under the ‘Wellness’ section of my report, that particular gene was missing, as were most of the other nasties, which means the odds are that I shall always know the name of the Prime Minister of the time, as well as remembering the things I would rather forget (mind you, that’s not necessarily a plus). But the part of the Wellness report that pleased me most was the knowledge that I have the same gene variant as elite power athletes. This I should have kept to myself as, when I boasted of it to my wife, she burst into hysterical laughter for ten minutes and then proceeded to giggle for the rest of the day. So, wind taken out of sails and having got the medical section out of the way, I moved on to discover more about the rest of me. The report shows that I am 99.5% Jewish with origins from Eastern Europe. This came as no surprise for what with my liking for both Stroganoff and blinis, coupled with what I see when looking downwards during my morning shower, confirmed this indisputably. The surprise came with the other 0.5 percent, which apparently originates from Western Asia, North Africa and indigenous North Americans. The latter possibly explains why, in my childhood, when we played Cowboys and Indians (sorry native Americans), as I was the only kid on the block without a gun, I spent a lot of the time lying on the pavement playing dead. The cowboys insisted on this – after

all, they had cap pistols and white hats and all I had was a yellow garden sprinkler that doubled up as a spear. But that was then, and today my genes prove what I have always known: not only am I a thoroughly modern man but also I am not a run-of-the-mill member of this world’s population. Hell no, I am a member of Haplogroup T-CTS8862 and, as it is said, “not a lot of people know that”. I am one of the only 1,200 known members of this group that can trace its history back a mere 30,000 years (which gives me my modernity), and, get this – I am a direct descendant of the third President of Trumpland, Thomas Jefferson. This, perhaps, is not something I should boast about as not only did Jefferson keep slaves, but he also married one, who bore him six sons. Is this is where the North African gene came from? Moving on to the ‘Traits’ section was quite interesting. This listed approximately 20 quirky facts, including preferences for taste, smell and sounds, physical characteristics – such as hair and finger length – and, best of all, it told me that I have the ability to perfectly-match musical pitch, (eat your heart out Jack Jones). It also informed me that I am likely to wake each morning at 6.37am, which is somewhat puzzling: 6.37am where? When it’s that time here in Portugal, it’s 9.37am in Minsk – the home of my grandfather – and a sensible time to wake up. But at Thomas Jefferson’s house in Washington DC it would be the middle of the night. Did Mrs Jefferson sit up and say: “Master Tom, what in darnation are you doin’ up, it’s 1.37 in the mornin’. You still writin’ that cotton-pickin’ Declaration of Independence? And if you is, don’t forget to put in that all men are created equal, you goddam hypocrite”. The ‘Relatives’ section was something of a surprise… 46 pages listing no less than 1,026 cousins from 20 countries and those were only the ones who had checked their ancestry. Predictably, the largest percentage of those relatives were in the US, then various Eastern European countries and the smallest number in France. Perhaps there are so few there because the majority had upped sticks, being too tired to get up each day at 7.37 (European time): after all, spending all day barricading the roads and their quaint tradition of cinq à sept (visiting their mistresses between 5 and 7pm) can, I’m sure, become rather exhausting. So, bottom line. I’ve learnt that I am a member of an exclusive tribe who are early risers, have perfect pitch, muscles of elite athletes and will keep their marbles well into old age. Overall, £124 well spent.

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AFM-Boat-2017-B5

20-02-2017

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SIMPLY DELICIOUS