Sam_May19 by Richard Bassett

SIMPLY

ALGARVE ISSUE NO. 37 MAY 19

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Contents

RICHARD BASSETT

SUSI ROGOL-GOODKIND

4 WORTH KNOWING News, views, and some very good ideas

8 THE ULTIMATE WATCH WARDROBE We’re talking big-time here, the brands that are first choice of the rich and very famous

12 DOGS’ DELIGHT One man’s dream of a safe haven for dogs and cats has been realised and now needs your support

14 S-T-R-E-T-C-H Easy does it. Making you body work its best

18 WHAT A CORKER Portugal leads the way in cork production. And the story is fascinating.

22 BEACHWALKERS’ PARADISE An artist who makes every day a holiday

26 RECIPE OF THE MONTH Chef Ben Tish serves up Moorish tastes

29 TRADER PLACES A photo-story of local trades and traders

32 PROPERTY UPDATE Selling? Buying? The time is right

34 GADGETS & GIZMOS The new breed of phones that take the best snaps

36 HOME sweet HOME Getting your place kitted out cost-effectively

39 RESTAURANT OF THE MONTH Eat, drink, and buy wines at the best prices

41 FINANCE Currency ups and downs and dealing with them

43 MONEY MATTERS Your finance questions answered

JAKE BASSETT

MEHREEN NAWAZ

PUBLISHER Richard Bassett EDITOR Susi Rogol-Goodkind +351 965 581 831 susi@rogol-goodkind.com ART DIRECTOR Jake Bassett simplyalgarvemag@gmail.com +351 966 044 143 CONTRIBUTORS Anthony Martin Brian Redmond Carolyn Kain Chris Partridge Chris Wright Jose Almeida Ricardo Chaves Richard Hudson Robert Bijker Stefan Humpenöder Tracey Llewellyn ADVERTISING Mehreen Nawaz +351 920 470 883 mehreen0782@gmail.com COVER PICTURE Kris Kirkham DISTRIBUTION 6,000 copies monthly, distributed via 100+ quality retailers, shopping centres, restaurants and more within the central Algarve region.

45 NOT TO BE MISSED Our guide to really special events

51 GOLF Expert advice from the pros in the know

53 SPORTS NEWS Who are the winners this month?

54 EXPAT TALK Anthony Martin reckons pirating could be big

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All rights reserved. Except for normal review purposes, no part of this magazine may be reproduced without the written permission of the publisher. Every care has been taken in the preparation of this magazine, but the contents are only meant as a guide to readers. The proprietors of this magazine are publishers not agents or sub agents of those who advertise therein. The publisher cannot be held liable for any loss suffered as a result of information gained from this publication. Unipessoal Lda

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om fr s n 5 Mi lé Lou

We buy and sell high quality furniture.

An enjoyable shopping experience with amazing choices at affordable prices. Why go anywhere else? Bedroom - Dining room - Lounge - Garden - Office - Kitchenware - Lighting - Soft Furnishings - Pictures - Mirrors - Objets d’art 4 www.simplyalgarvemag.com www.simplyalgarvemag.com

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OPEN MONDAY TO FRIDAY, 10am-5pm TEL: 289 395 197 OR VISIT HOUSE2HOUSE.PT

41 11

Pet topic

DOGS’ DELIGHT

ARA (Animal Rescue Algarve) has a mission to make the world a better place for the oft-mistreated dogs of the Algarve. Safety and security, health and well-being are the priorities... and your help is needed to ensure a better life awaits the animals in the sanctuary’s care

n the hillside of Vale de Rosa, just north of Loulé, a ﬁve-acre piece of land is the temporary home for up to 100 dogs at any one time – dogs that have been rescued from cruelty and neglect. From tiny unwanted puppies abandoned by the roadside or dumped in rubbish tips to older dogs who have been beaten and starved, these are the animals to whom love and kindness is life changing. ARA is an ofﬁcial association: Abrigo dos Animais, Associacao de Protecao de Animais. Three years ago its founder, Sid Richardson, took the decision to create a sanctuary for up to 200 animals in his lifetime, committing to provide the capital if local councils were prepared to help with ongoing costs. Both Loulé and São Brás showed an interest, and an initial willingness to support the project but, nothing has materialised. Building a dream Twelve months ago, Sid, frustrated and saddened, decided to go the private route and do things his way to realise a long-held dream. ARA now can provide a short-term home and medical care for dogs and around 40 cats, and has onsite accommodation for 20 staff, the majority of whom are volunteers on the Work-Away programme.

Staying for anything from a week to a month, they come from different backgrounds and countries across the globe but they have one thing in common – a shared desire to bring an end to the mis-treatment of animals. Some 20% of volunteers, in fact, leave with a dog they have rescued and cared for while working at the sanctuary. Jessica, a 23-year-old volunteer arrived in February and is staying until August. She has fallen in love with Leila, a puppy of a badly traumatised hunter’s dog called Luna, and will adopt Leila when she leaves. Jessica is studying zoology and dreams of working in a place like ARA when she graduates. Happily Luna, through TLC at ARA, is a now transformed and is being adopted soon, too. Her journey through rehabilitation after not trusting humans, shaking and staring with haunted eyes, is nearly complete. Where you come in ARA needs funding to keep up its work. Of course oneoff donations help the cause enormously, but regular contributions are vital – running costs just covering food, medication, sterilisation and re-homing exceed �180,000 a year. Grain-free dog food, plastic dog beds, rope toys, dog biscuits/treats, stainless-steel dog bowls and harnesses and leads are just a few of the items needed every month.

TALKING POINTS... The ARA complex is impressive. There are super-sized fully-insulated eco-friendly kennels, large ‘social’ areas, enough staff for the most part to socialise and walk dogs twice a day, specially-designed washrooms, and soon-to-be-completed treatment rooms where animals can be vaccinated, micro-chipped, sterilised, and trained so that they can live better than ever before. The re-homing rate, ARA says, is three times better than the national average and that is a huge achievement. Volunteers from within the community make a big difference, too, coming together as like-minded individuals who want to help. But so much more needs to be done. Government will hopefully meet its promise and one day soon deliver aid and amend planning laws regulating animal shelters. And there needs to be legal enforcement of sterilisation of animals allowed to roam free. Be a dog’s best friend Arrange a visit / socialise or walk a dog / spread the awareness in the community / Join a WhatsApp (or email) group for volunteer dog walkers – call 912 306 182 for details ARA Vale de Rosa Cabanita, 8100-910 Loule T: 910 476 885 / E: info@animalrescuealgarve.com W: animalrescuealgarve.com

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The good news: In October 2018 the Portuguese government passed a law protecting animal rights and outlawing the euthanizing of healthy animals The bad news: They have provided neither the ďŹ nance nor the infrastructure for this to work. www.simplyalgarvemag.com

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Seriously fit

Low back release Hold each position for one minute. Keep the feet turned inwards to keep the spine in a neutral position and anatomically correct.

Plank 4th position Stay in this position with the feet parallel, breathing deeply for one minute to intensify the exercise; flex the foot in front. Change feet and repeat.

Back stretch Hold each leg position for one minute to stretch the upper back and to support the fingers on the floor.

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Head up Project the head to stretch the legs and tendons. Alternate this with the 90-degree plank.

90-Degree Plank Stay in this position with feet parallel, breathing deeply for one minute. Repeat with arm across back. Repeat again with other arm.

A rustic charming oasis set in the Hills of Boliqueime offering Creative Courses. Cooking, Writing and Art. A venue to hold your Special Birthday or even an intimate wedding. Up and coming Events: • 23 May Italian Cooking Course • 24 May A Hatha Yoga Day with a Vegetarian Italian Lunch • Mexican Pop Up Night 21 June Please email for reservations or viewings info@casademondo.com Tel 911 076 846 +44 790 352 59 41

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䄀刀䄀一䜀䔀䌀伀伀䬀䔀刀昀漀爀攀瘀攀爀礀猀琀礀氀攀

Truly innovative space with rigorous vintage strokes. The Moon is an alternative in good taste and welcoming, tranforming 䤀䴀倀伀刀吀䔀刀匀⼀䐀䤀匀吀刀䤀䈀唀吀伀刀匀愀昀琀攀爀猀愀氀攀猀猀攀爀瘀椀挀攀猀Ⰰ 爀攀瀀愀椀爀猀愀渀搀洀愀椀渀琀攀渀愀渀挀攀

and aisseminating Glamour.

刀甀愀䈀漀愀瘀攀渀琀甀爀愀倀愀猀猀漀猀Ⰰ 一먀 ㄀㠀刀⼀挀㠀㄀㔀 ⴀ㄀㈀㄀匀漀䈀爀猀搀攀䄀氀瀀漀爀琀攀氀

toldos - awnings sun wind rain protection

toldolanda

info@toldolanda.com | www.toldolanda.com | 914 609 517 www.simplyalgarvemag.com

Our Chef Phillipp Glass will serve you with mediterranean and international cuisine broadened with several influences, his cuisine merits itself through its ttention to detail and delicate flavours. Vila Sol Plaza - Loja 2 8125 - 307 Reservations: +351 925 323 098 bookings@restaurantmoon.com Opening Hours: Tuesday to Saturday 6:30 pm to 12:00 pm

ART

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BEACH WALKER’S PARADISE Our beaches are among Europe’s best. The ever-changing movement and power of the sea along our coast inspires artist Carlos Martin who photographs and then paints his chosen stretch of sand and water. Carolyn Kain explains his work

n an average summer’s day, 14,000 waves strike the Algarve’s southern shore. This action caused by the power of the Atlantic Ocean has created some of Europe’s most exceptional beaches. The colour of the Algarve sand varies from pale beige to gold, often sparkling with particles of finely ground-down shells that are subjected to the constant movement of the waves. Grains of sand eroded from towering cliffs of red clay and limestone are carried along the coast by the long-shore current. On a calm day, a single grain is moved about six metres but during winter storms the distance can be four times farther. Where the current is slowed down or deflected by inlets, bars, headlands or man-made structures, the sand begins to settle and accumulate. Like a conveyor belt, the down-current takes sand from one beach to another. Simultaneously, over the course of every day, the beaches are changed from a narrow strip to a broad expanse and back again by the tide; incredibly, the wavelength of the tide is half the circumference of the earth, caused by the gravitational pull of the moon. It is at low tide when artist Carlos Martin combs the Algarve’s beaches with his camera. An accomplished photographer it is these photographic compositions that inspire his highly-collectable paintings. Carlos deliberately selects beaches where the slope at the bottom of the sea is shallow and the surf takes the form of lightly-spilling breakers. The shallow incline causes the water to cascade in quiet lines of foam leaving traces of surface water. The shadows of people on this shimmering plane of wet sand add a further dimension to his art works. Collectors of his pieces come from around the globe – Sydney and Moscow, Los Angeles and Singapore. His paintings are currently on display at Galeria Côrte-Real. Galeria Côrte-Real is located on the outskirts of Paderne and signposted from the centre of the village, and from Boliqueime and Ferreiras. Open Thursday to Sunday, 11am-5pm T: 912 737 762

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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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OF THE MONTH PROPERTY DETAILS

Luxurious and welldesigned modern villa in great location in Vila Sol/ Vilamoura

• Large light-drenched entrance hall • 3 bedrooms ensuite • Spacious lounge and dining room with double-sided gas fireplace • Modern fully-fitted and equipped kitchen • Laundry room • Large carport (convertible into a closed garage) • Underfloor heating • Air conditioning • Electric shutters

• False ceilings with indirect light • SAT-TV / telephone / internet connections • Sound system • Landscaped garden with automatic irrigation • Swimming pool (10x5m) • Security alarm • Mains water • Plot: 1,082 m2 • Construction size: 260 m2 • EC: D

¤965,000 www.simplyalgarvemag.com

Ref: TPL 25

Simply delicious

Charcoalgrilled lamb chops With fresh peas and a hot cumin and mint vinaigrette There’s nothing like the smell of lamb chops cooked over charcoal – they seem to be made for it with the tasty fat lightly charring and crisping, the outside flesh caramelising and the centre juicy pink. Here chef Ben Tish has paired the chops with a simple dressing he sampled in Sicily, although there the vinaigrette came with broad beans and fennel fronds instead of peas and mint. Both versions are delicious Serves 4 Ingredients 180g podded fresh peas (or frozen garden peas) 8 lamb chops, trimmed of excess fat Olive oil Juice of 1/2 lemon 150ml extra virgin olive oil 100ml white balsamic vinegar 1tsp cumin seeds, lightly crushed 3 garlic cloves, finely sliced Mint leaves, to garnish Sea salt and black pepper Method Prepare a charcoal fire in your barbecue or heat a ridged grill pan.

1 2

Bring a pan of salted water to the boil and blanch the peas until just tender. Drain and refresh in iced water. Drain again and set aside.

Season the chops well and rub with olive oil. Place on the barbecue or grill pan and cook on one side for four minutes. There should be a good caramelisation when the chops are turned over, along with a slight charring along the fat. Cook on the other side for three minutes for medium rare – the meat should have a good spring when pressed. Remove the chops from the heat to a wire rack set over a tray and squeeze over the lemon juice. Leave to rest in a warm spot for 5–7 minutes.

Meanwhile, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil and vinegar in a small saucepan. Season well and add the cumin and garlic. Heat until the garlic just starts to fizz.

Add the peas and remove from the heat. Pour in the lamb resting juices that have dripped into the tray and check the seasoning.

To serve, divide some of the peas, along with some of the vinaigrette, between four serving plates. Place two lamb chops on top of each pile of peas, then spoon over the remainder of the peas and vinaigrette. Finish each plate with a sprinkle of mint leaves.

TALKING POINTS... Moorish by Ben Tish (Bloomsbury Absolute, ¤30.66 hb, published 18 April) introduces the incredible tastes that came with the Moors and were absorbed into Portuguese, Spanish and Sicilian cuisine – cumin, cardamom, saffron, coriander, ginger, apricots, watermelons and pomegranates. Big flavoured dishes with the sun-soaked, exotic aromas of North Africa and the Arabic world can be found in this exciting new book in which Ben offers his own interpretations of classic such as shakshuka, red prawn crudo, spiced venison and quince pinchos, woodbaked Moorish chicken, pine nut and raisin pie, slow cooked fish and shellfish stew with saffron and star anise and octopus and smoked paprika with black beans and rice. Yum stuff, and more of Moorish next month, too. The stunning photography is by Kris Kirkham.

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Property

PORTUGAL PROPERTY… A real success story Stefan Humpenöder and Robert Bijker, the MDs of Yellow Homes, have decades of experience that can benefit property sellers as well as buyers looking for the best possible investments

ast month, we detailed Portugal’s successful initiatives that have proven to be key to the country’s positive performance in the property market – 2018 was another year of good growth and, in the absence of unexpected global events, 2019 looks set to continue the trend. However, in most other property markets across the world, ‘uncertainty’ just might be the word that endures throughout 2019. Historically, trade wars do not have a winner, only losers. These self-inflicted wounds cause harm to the global economy, hence the downward revisions for 2019 and 2020, with the ongoing Brexit saga adding momentum to the downturn in economic activity. Questions result: can stock market volatility, political struggle and economic instability change the real estate landscape in Portugal? Will strong demand for residential and commercial properties in Portugal continue and will real estate prices stay stable? Is Portugal, in fact, swimming against the tide? Since the start of the year we entered a period of uncertainty. The ECB (European Central Bank) was quick to put monetary

policy on hold resulting in a sharp reversal in interest rates which led to new lows – even the five-year swap rate turned negative for a short period. The rate of growth Portugal’s housing prices are expected to continue to rise in 2019 albeit at a lower pace, fuelled by growing demand as well as improved economic conditions in Portugal. The national economy is expected to continue to grow at a level of at least 1% per annum. Moody’s Investor Service is predicting that house prices will increase 7-8% by the end of 2020. However, we believe that this may be over ambitious and expect prices to increase by 3-4 % in 2019 and 1-2 % in 2020. The underlying reasons for rising property prices are the low interest rate environment, demand for property outstripping supply, and a relatively good return on investment versus other asset classes. The supply of housing is an important barometer to effectively keep property prices in check. Supply and

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demand in real estate are not easy to balance. Building a property requires time – from architectural design to planning permission, construction and the updating of the property documentation. This imbalance often exacerbates upswings and downturns. And, when property prices are getting frothy, the difference in price expectation between vendors and prospective buyers widens. That said, the disparity in price expectations has not been this high for a long time which often leads to disappointment. To keep property prices in check, more supply is needed and it will have to be priced appropriately. We see supply of newlybuilt properties increasing in Portugal and gaining momentum in 2019/2020. Therefore, it is likely for property prices to top out/plateau during this period.

the property market here seems to be on a strong footing, offering excellent opportunities for those looking for a stable return on investment in the foreseeable future. If you consider buying or selling a property in the Algarve and would like to speak with a member of our team then please call us now to make an appointment. All our multilingual property consultants live in the Algarve and offer a wealth of local knowledge. In business since 1995 we have experienced various property cycles – use our unbiased and independent advice to your advantage. Vilamoura Office EN 125, Benfarras Boliqueime 8100 - 068 Boliqueime T: 289 301 294 / F: 289 301 439 Tavira Office Rua Dr. José Pires Padinha 178 8800 - 354 Tavira T: 281 320 281 / F: 281 321 901 (AMI - 6232)

Interest rates Interest rates not only have an effect on business activity, mortgages and property prices, but they also influence asset allocation decisions both on an individual level, as well as investment and pension funds. While parking money in a shortterm saving account in times of GOLF PROPERTIES - VILLAS - APARTMENTS - TOWNHOUSES - PLOTS uncertainty will protect you from losses during market gyrations, in the long run they do not offer enough yield to cover inflation and, in the case of pension funds, fall short to cover pension liabilities. In other words, a glut of savings is trying to find a new home which offers a reasonable and stable return on investment as, historically, periods of low interest rates can last for decades. But right now we are seeing an increasing demand for mortgages and notice a preference for fixedUNIQUE, SPACIOUS SINGLE -STOREY VILLA BETWEEN VALE DO LOBO AND QUARTEIRA. rate mortgages over floating rates This wonderful south-facing property is for sale in the beautiful Algarve conveniently set on which signals the homeowners a large private plot within a luxurious development close to Vale do Lobo and the vibrant preference for stability. coastal town of Quarteira. The long sandy beaches are easy to reach within a few minutes’ AMI: 6232 At the same time, Portugal’s walk, as well as restaurants and a supermarket. Price: €1.190.000 Ref: HNG EC: In progress. tax initiatives and Golden Visa Contact us! Our email is info@yellowhomes.com or call us on (+351) 289 301 294 regime continue to set the Find out more info on our website www.yellowhomes.com scene for healthy demand for property. Moreover, Portugal is an increasingly desirable destination as one of the most peaceful countries in the world, with one of the lowest crime rates in Europe. GOLF PROPERTIES - VILLAS - APARTMENTS - TOWNHOUSES - PLOTS Demand for homes in the medium and medium-high sector is excellent and a growing number of new, middle-class buyers from emerging markets add to demand for real-estate investments in a safe and established jurisdiction like Portugal. The lack of alternative investment opportunities is another reason that makes Portugal an interesting investment proposition where rental yields are on average between 3–4% but can be as high as 7% in city centres. A healthy scenario So, it is good news for the Portuguese property market but, in order to sustain a healthy market, supply needs to increase to match demand. All things considered, we believe that the

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NEWLY-RENOVATED 3+1 BED VILLA NEXT TO THE BEACH IN CENTRAL ALGARVE. Set amongst mature landscapes on established plots, this modern total renovation property is within a very short walk of one of the Central Algarve’s most stunning beaches and natural lagoons. The main house offers a good size living and dining room, a fully-fitted kitchen and 3 bedrooms with bathrooms. Separate guest annex available – finished equally impressively. AMI: 6232

Ref: BHM Price €1.650.000 EC class C.

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

Gadgets and gizmos

AND IT MAKES CALLS, TOO

Today’s mobiles are rated by their ability to take top-notch shots says our techno man, Chris Partridge. Here’s his pick of the newest breed of cameras – err – phones

tidal wave of new smartphones is heading for the shops right now, from everyone except, oddly, Apple, which is not expected to unveil its next model, rumoured to be called the iPhone 11, until the autumn. Smartphone action is firmly concentrated on the cameras, with a huge range of technologies vying for attention. The Huawei P30 Pro seems to be all the cameras you will ever need, with four Leica-branded lenses on the back in addition to the selfie camera on the front. There is a standard lens with a distinctly non-standard 40MP sensor; a super-wide angle lens; a 5x zoom lens and ‘time of flight’ lens that measures depth to create arty portraits. The camera app even features an amazing 50x zoom but that is created digitally and the results can be mixed (but hey – if it is the only way of zooming in to wildlife then it must be good). The cameras also have optical image stabilisation to reduce camera shake at long zooms. The results can be spectacular even in low light, but experts are warning that the level of digital massaging of the images to get this performance can give artificial-looking images, particularly odd colour distortions. For average users however, the results are better than most compact cameras. Different again Nokia phones (now made under licence by the Chinese company HMD) have recently focused on photography with its PureView range. The latest, the Nokia 9 PureView, has no fewer than five 12MP lenses making a star pattern on the back with the flash and time-offlight imaging sensor. The Nokia 9 is based on a completely

Samsung Galaxy fold

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different philosophy than other smartphones, using the various sensors to pull in both monochrome and colour at various wavelengths to capture the full spectrum of light. All the data is combined to create images of amazing clarity and colour depth. However, the levels of software needed to combine all the data means that some images can look a bit artificial, though enthusiasts can mitigate this by exploiting the feature allowing direct loading of the images into Adobe Lightroom editing software (a free version is included) to create images to your own high standards. Samsung’s new flagship, the Galaxy S10+, sports a relatively modest number of lenses – just three on the back, though not many other phones have two selfie lenses. The main camera trio includes standard, 2x zoom and ultra-wide-angle lenses. Despite the relative paucity of lenses, however, the results are superb with low noise, exceptional detail and accurate colours. It is as good as most people will ever need.

Royole Flexpai

Foldables The other big new thing in smartphones is folding screens, which have got the digerati very excited indeed. First out of the trap was an obscure company called Royole, with its FlexPai phone that folds back like a ring-binder, leaving the screen on the outside. It cleverly changes the screen to put all the icons on the front when folded, but using the whole screen when unfolded into a tablet. Next off was the Samsung Galaxy Fold, which folds like a book to keep the screen on the inside. A smaller outside screen is used when it is folded. Then came Huawei’s Mate X, an outside screen folder with a clever sidebar carrying the rear-facing cameras. The idea is to create a phone that is a tablet as well, so you can play games and watch videos on a device that pops in your pocket. However... all the foldable phones currently coming onto the market have several big drawbacks. The main one is the price – from ¤2,000 – which is a gigantic sum of money. If you bought an iPhone X plus Apple’s brand new iPad Mini you could get change out of a grand. Tech journalists say that folding phones will come down in price but don’t hold your breath – a folding phone has twice the screen, twice the battery and a complex mechanical hinge, so they will always be twice the price of a similar size smartphone. And that is before you consider they are twice as thick and twice as heavy, making them far less pocketable than regular, non-folding smartphones. They will, however, make you the centre of attention while they are still novel. Nokia 9

TALKING POINTS...

Huawei Mate X

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Chris Partridge has been writing about technology since the days of wireless sets with real mahogany cases with glowing valves inside, mainly for The Times, the Telegraph, the Observer and The Sunday Times. His own phone? The Samsung Galaxy Note, because of the stylus and handwriting recognition.

Housemates

HOME SWEET HOME Ready to refurnish? Want a new look? Searching for that special piece? Visit House2House on the Almancil-Loulé road in Areeiro, and you will be spoilt for choice

ome 15 years ago, with a successful business here specialising in outdoor living, Roger and Judith Lewis saw a niche in the market for pre-loved furnishings and accessories, having met property owners keen to change their style, and newcomers with a shopping list where quality looks and sensible prices were top priorities. They talked with contacts, investigated needs, tastes and wants, analysed opportunities and weighed up the potential for what was to become the first business of its type on the Algarve. They advertised their new venture, appropriately called House2House, in English-language papers, rented a warehouse and van and within a matter of weeks had bought in sufficient stock to get their

new business off the ground, with rental management companies as their initial target audience. Word spread fast – as it does when a concept is innovative and those behind it already have a reputation for business expertise – and Roger and Judith were approached by both local residents keen to sell and others who were interested in buying. To meet all tastes Today, the warehouse spills over with an eclectic mix of trend-setting and traditional pieces, stylish suites for every room, colours that range from bold and bright to soft and subtle, contemporary sofas and sleek dining sets and a wealth of accessories for every setting. Stock changes weekly – sometimes daily – and often the

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entire contents of an elegant designer-decorated villa that may have only been used for a few months of the year – finds its way into the showroom. Choice items get snapped up instantly so regular visits are a must for customers with an eye for quality design at an attractive price point. Roger and Judith’s clientele is broad-based and includes the furnishing professionals – interior designers looking for specific statement pieces – as well as people furnishing a property for their own use or for rental, and still others who may be planning to ship goods back to their home country. Fifteen years’ experience in the field means that the bosses and their multi-lingual team can assess sales appeal and values fast. And pristine condition is a vital ingredient. The average sale is under ¤500 but recently a beautiful

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dining suite was sold by House2House for over ¤5,000. According to Louise who manages the business: “At one time, a family would buy furniture once or twice in a lifetime. The buying decision was difficult, time-consuming and stressful, too because, after all, this was major expenditure and the resulting purchases were lived with for years. Today you can change your colour scheme, add highlights of detail, and go from classic to cool or vice versa on a whim.” House2House Areeiro, EN521, 8100-225 Loué T: 289 395 197 / 916 539 081 E: info@house2house.pt W: house2house.pt

summer c

Albufeira - Vale Paraiso - N125 - Retail Park - 8200-567 | MON-SUN 10.00-19.00 Almancil - Av. 5 de Outubro 284 - 8135-103 | MON-FRI 10.00-18.00

www.simpletaste.pt

Tel: +351 289 516 695

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Dining out

RESTAURANT OF THE MONTH VENEZA, PADERNE

e first discovered Veneza some 20 years ago and marked it as a little treasure in our must-goback notebook. Since then, we have returned many times over and continued to enjoy the food, which is the best of Portuguese, the atmosphere and the opportunity to sample some truly great wines. The place has a real history, opening in 1954 as a coffee shop-come-grocery store-come-building-material-supplier and in 1970 taking on a new personality as a dance hall. Today, where noted musicians and singers once performed, more than 1,500 different wines are stored and for sale at the best market price to appreciative diners. Unsurprisingly, countless awards for food and drink have come Veneza’s way over the years adding to the recognition and respect this family-owned business has earned so well. Chef Orlando Gonçalves Matias recently joined the team at Veneza and he is clearly focused on Portuguese specialities, adding marvellous little twists to traditional dishes such as the restaurant’s famous (and filling) Bean Soup, its flavoursome Garlic Prawns, and two of the most popular dishes, Pan-fried Pork Tenderloin Medallions with Garlic and finely-sliced Pork Liver with Onions. He has also introduced a choice of splendid petiscos (little snacks) like Quail Eggs with Chorizo, Oxtail Croquettes, Asparagus with eggs and traditional Hunting Sausage – just the thing to start a long and relaxed meal with friends. Each day, in additional to the main menu there is a choice of specials – and very special they are, using the freshest of local seasonal ingredients. For the taste adventurers there’s the likes of Veal Tongue Stew, Black Pork Cheek or Oxtail Stew, all of which, once tasted are demanded again and again and yet again. The wine store fascinates, even the teetotallers among us cannot resist a walk down the long aisles where shelves

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are stacked with bottle after more bottle, with names and tasting notes as well as the takeaway price. And the wine cellar, of course, is one of the reasons for the popularity of Veneza; the staff are knowledgeable and always ready to offer opinion and recommendation. In all, some 3,500 different drinks are available in the restaurant – and how many eateries can claim that? Puddings – they are a real classics: carob cake, fig tart, almond and honey cookies, toasted almonds and eggs, and there’s a great choice of Portuguese cheeses to sample with fresh breads and crispy crackers. This is a great place to entertain, especially if you have guests you want to impress. No wonder Tripadvisor rates it as the Number One in Paderne. Allow ¤30 a head and do check out special events at the restaurant with carefully chosen menus designed to introduce new tastes. If you are planning a party away from home, this could be the perfect venue. Restaurant Veneza 8200-488 Paderne T: 289 367 129 E: info@restaurnteveneza.com Bookings by phone only

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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

Finance

BREXIT DELAY: impacts on the pound continues Staying on top of the latest currency news can help you time your transfers more effectively. Jose Almeida explains what you should look out for in the next few weeks… THE BREXIT DELAY FAILS TO REVERSE THE POUND’S LOSSES The pound continued to give up ground in the past couple of weeks, with another delay to Brexit failing to energise Sterling due to concerns over prolonged uncertainty. This has seen GBP/EUR slip from ¤1.16 to ¤1.15, and pushed EUR/GBP up nearer to £0.87. Meanwhile, GBP/USD fell back from $1.30 to $1.29, while EUR/USD was left at around $1.12, despite briefly reaching $1.13. WHAT’S BEEN HAPPENING? While the UK may have avoided a no-deal Brexit last month, the prospect of another six months of uncertainty and some mixed UK data has left the pound on the defensive. Meanwhile, trade in the euro has been mixed in the past couple of weeks, with the single currency relinquishing its initial gains after some gloomy Eurozone PMI figures stoked fears the bloc could face a recession this year. At the same time, after initially being clipped by improved risk appetite, the US dollar leapt back to life in mid-April on the back of some robust US economic data.

WHAT DO YOU NEED TO LOOK OUT FOR? While Brexit will remain a priority for GBP investors, expect to see Sterling increasingly influenced by UK economic data in the coming weeks as the immediate threat of the UK crashing out of the UK fades. In addition to the latest Eurozone data, the euro is likely to become increasing politically sensitive as we near the European elections.

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Finally, the outlook for the US dollar will likely depend on the outcome of US-China trade talks, with USD likely to relinquish ground again if it looks likely the two powers are able to finalise a deal. TOP TIPS: SAFETY OF FUNDS More than 275,000 people and businesses have saved time, hassle and money by using Currencies Direct We made more than 570,000 payments last year, trading £6.5bn in currency. We’re authorised by the FCA as an Electronic Money Institution (EMI). We have a level 1 credit rating with Dun & Bradstreet (that’s the highest you can get). Our customers’ money is always processed through a segregated bank account, to keep it 100% safe. Currencies Direct are here to talk currency whenever you need them, so please get in touch if you want to know more about the latest news or how it could impact your currency transfers. Since 1996 we have helped more than 275,000 customers with their currency transfers, so why not give us a call to find out more. For more detailed information, please contact the local office, email us, or visit our website and register to get regular updates on the currency markets. (Do mention you heard of us in Simply Algarve magazine.) T: 289 395 739 E: algarve@currenciesdirect.com W: currenciesdirect.com/portugal

E legance

ALGARVE

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

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Finance

MONEY MATTERS Each month, Ricardo Chaves of All Finance Matters will answer readers’questions to help you to understand the often complex tax system here I have not received my IMI (Municipal Property Tax) council bill yet – do I need to do anything? From this year the dates to make the payment of the IMI have changed. Previously payable annually in April, the first installment is now payable in May. The payment due dates depend on the amount of the IMI you pay each year: • Amount equal to or less than ¤100 - in a single installment during May • Value between ¤100 and ¤500 inclusive - in two installments during May and November • Value over ¤500 - in three installments payable in May, August and November Please note that if you wish, you can always pay the full amount in May. If you do not receive the IMI council tax bill, it may be because your address in Portugal is incorrectly listed. If you are non-resident you should rectify this and provide the address of a fiscal representative or your own address outside Portugal. This common mistake leads the tax authorities to assume you are resident, and therefore have an obligation to submit an IRS tax declaration. However, if you are classed as a resident and did not submit a tax declaration last year, that may be the reason why you did not receive notification of IMI council tax this year, which may generate problems at a later stage. Please contact us for advice, to rectify the situation. I need to file my IRS tax declaration this year. Do I need to declare my foreign bank accounts? Do I need to declare my electronic credit card? This is not new; all resident taxpayers are obliged to mention in their Personal Income Tax (IRS) any accounts opened outside the Portuguese territory. As regards the type of accounts to be declared, the law expressly refers to “deposit or securities accounts” and therefore accounts of another nature, such as non-payment or electronic payment cards, don’t need to be declared. If you are resident and do not declare your accounts outside Portugal and this is detected by the tax authorities, they may increase the period of expiration of your IRS to 12 years. This means that if your IRS is audited for any reason and any irregularity is detected, the tax authorities can only go back four years. However, if they detect that you did not disclose the foreign bank accounts, the law offers an exception to the tax authorities to go back 12 years, instead of four. We sold our property for ¤250,000 in 2018. This was our primary residency and would like to reinvest the proceedings of the sale into another property. The new property will cost ¤150,000, plus another ¤100,000 in refurbishment works; can I use this as part of the reinvestment?

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You have up to three years after the sale to make the reinvestment in another property that you chose as your new primary habitation. This property can be located anywhere within the EU. If the new house you purchased has a price of ¤250,000, then you avoid the payment of Capital Gains Tax. However, if the property is worth ¤150,000 and you are going to spend a further ¤100,000 refurbishing your new home, then you will be faced with paying Capital Gains Tax, as the costs for the refurbishments will only be used when you sell the new property that you now purchased. There is one alternative and that is if you were to buy a plot of land for ¤150,000 and build a new property for ¤100,000. In this case the reinvestment would be fulfilled. However, if the property you are buying already existed, then the tax authorities will not accept the refurbishment costs as part of the reinvestment. Please note that in any case, all invoices for the refurbishment or construction should have your Fiscal Number (NIF) and include the address of the property. Also, if the property has more than one owner, please ask the builder to invoice both owners for 50% each. This avoids any future confusing situation in a gain situation, as only one owner can deduct expenses.

If you are buying an existing property, the tax authorities will not accept the refurbishment costs as part of the reinvestment of the sale of your previous property

Over the past few months we have received many questions from Simply Algarve readers, and although some of them are related to specific individual situations, the advice given will, hopefully, help all readers get a better understanding of the tax system in Portugal. Whatever your tax concerns, please feel free to contact us with your questions – we are here to help at any time. Just email ricardo@allfinance.pt – the letters of most general interest will be published in the first available issue of Simply Algarve magazine.

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Opening hours: May: Thursday - Sunday 15:00Pm - 24:00Am June to September - Everyday 10:00Am - 2:00Am

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Life is a party. Celebrate it. Create an unforgettable event.

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Golf

WHY THE BEST ARE THE BEST AND YOU COULD BE TOO!

Richard Hudson and Eddie Charnock, Algarve Golf Guru, PGA Professionals discuss defying setbacks or Father Time!

iger Woods hadn’t won a major in 11 years. He had struggled through injury and personal crisis. He was dismissed as ﬁnished, struggled with the chipping yips, his years of dominance fading into memory. Then, on Sunday 14 April, he won the Masters again, at age 43. When athletes begin to fade, it’s usually all over as far as their careers are concerned. But a select few have returned in triumph, defying setbacks or Father Time. The comeback most people thought of when Woods won on that Sunday in April was the Masters victory by Jack Nicklaus at age 46 in 1986. Nicklaus had not won a major in six years and yet became the oldest player to win the Masters. Even more incredible was the return of Ben Hogan at the 1950 US Open. His car had collided head-on with a Greyhound bus in Texas in 1949, and he was nearly killed. After two months in the hospital, and a year recovering, he returned to golf and won the Open. He added ﬁve more major championships over the next three years.

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Although these are extreme examples. It goes to show that if you buckle down and focus, you can achieve whatever you set your mind on. So if things aren’t going according to plan on the course at the moment, take the time to discuss with your local PGA Professionals and set a plan to get you back in the game and enjoying yourself again. These legends of the game haven’t won by sheer good luck and talent alone! They work hard to understand their golf swing and make it repeatable under extreme pressure. So to be the ‘BEST YOU’ on the fairways, making sure you appreciate the fundamentals of golf, and that means Swing Plane, Connection, Dynamic Balance, Rhythm, Timing and Course Management. Contact Richard or Eddie to discuss coaching opportunities for 2019 E: sales@algarvegolfguru.com W: algarvegolfguru.com And do mention Simply Algarve as a point of referral

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Safety & Health Care for Vulnerable and Disabled Adults NURSING SERVICES HOUSEKEEPING SERVICES RESIDENTIAL FOR SENIORS For further information consult our website www.womensworld.pt or contact us below. Av. 5 de Outubro, N º 229, 8135-103 Almancil, Email: associacaowomensworld@gmail.com Tel. +351 911 569 975

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For further information consult our website www.buyahouse.pt or contact us below. Av. 5 de Outubro, N º 229, 8135-103 Almancil, Email: geral@buyahouse.pt Tel. 351 911 572 265

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An impressive 825 m2 luxury mansion, spacious and graced with magnificent views over the Atlantic Ocean. The outside space has been carefully designed to fully appreciate the climate of the Algarve with multiple terraces, a salt water swimming pool, a jacuzzi and BBQ area. Inside you find the 8 rooms, all with en=suite bathrroms, along with large social spaces, an office, gym, sauna and Turkish baths and more, all finished to the highest standard. EC: A

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SPORTS NEWS

Brought to you by Chris Wright

Mixed marathons in May Lagos is the venue for a fun-filled day of physical activity on Sunday 12 May. ‘Meia Maratona Internacional’ (halfmarathon) will also feature a mini-marathon and walk. Organised by the Olímpico Clube de Lagos the 21kms half-marathon is open to athletes over the age of 20 and is described as a “competitive race”, while the 5kms mini-marathon is a more light-hearted and less physically demanding race that will be open to anyone aged 16 and over. The 5kms walk is open to everyone. All events will begin at 9.30am in front of the Hotel Marina Club in Lagos. The routes will include some of the main landmarks of Lagos such as the marina drawbridge and the Ponta da Piedade beauty spot. For more information or to sign up, visit crono.aaalgarve.org Portimonense faces a difficult time The Algarve’s only Primeira Liga team will have to up their game if they are not to be sucked into a fight against relegation. Three defeats, including at home to FC Porto, and a draw in four games have seen them drop down the table. West Ham United had scouts at the Porto game as three potential targets - Yacine Brahmi, Moussa Marega and Hector Herrera - got on the score sheet as the title contenders won 3-0. Portimonense were two goals up at half-time away at Tondela but contrived to ship three goals in the second period and hence lose three vital points. A difficult run-in includes away games at Benfica (weekend 4-5 May) and SC Braga (18-19 May). Sandwiched between these two games is a vital home game against Marítimo (Madeira) on the weekend of 11-12 May. Feast of fine walking football in Ferreiras! Just five years after walking football was introduced to the Algarve over 300 mature players, ranging from 50 to 80+ years of age, competed in the EuroCopa Walking Football

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Cup festrival at Ferreiras FC, Albufeira. Organised by Algarve Football Tours, the event attracted teams from France, Scotland, England, Spain, South Africa and Portugal. Great strides have been taken in a short period of time mainly due to East Algarve Walking Football, Browns WF (Vilamoura) and Lagos Strollers attracting teams to the excellent astro-turf pitches and stadia in the region. England was represented by Hartshill (Warwickshire), Cottingham (Hull), Clacton (Essex), Rushden (Northamptonshire), Brackley (Northamptonshire), Northwich (Cheshire), Fulham (London), Oxford and Sheffield. From Scotland came North Lanarkshire Auld Gits WF whilst Aulany (Paris) WF flew the flag for France. Esquina Park WF (southern Spain) and Luso Africa (South Africa) completed the foreign line-up. A strong contingent from Portugal included Benfica (Lisbon), Silver Coast Strollers (north-west Portugal), Lagos Strollers, and Browns (Vilamoura) with East Algarve Walking Football entered five teams across the two age groups. Brackley Sinners and Brackley Saints took first and second place in the 60+ Tournament whilst Lagos Strollers won the 60+ Bowl Competition with EAWF Tavira finishing as runners-up. The EuroCopa 50+ Final between Sheffield United and Luso Africa was full of fast, skilful walking football with the team from the southern hemisphere taking the lead in the first period. The Blades struck back to level and take the tie to penalties with Luso Africa edging home 2-1. Clacton Knights took third place with a 2-1 victory over Esquina Park, Spain. EAWF Olhão were the best placed Algarve team in fifth place after a 5-0 win against French side Aulany. After two days of intensive activity and 149 games it only remained for Paulo Dias, Chief of Staff to the Mayor of Albufeira, to present the trophies and thank everyone for making the event an outstanding success.

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Last word

EXPAT talk...

More dates in the diary, more ‘will-we-won’twe-and-when’ debates. Anthony Martin plans to enjoy every last minute of remaining, but does see some key advantages in the UK leaving

ey, it’s May, and we Brits are still here (hanging on by the skin of our teeth) but still here, still Europeans and still doing, well… Europeany things. Not yet are we a small, lonely, friendless island, floating in the midst of two seas and a channel. Not yet have we reverted to our bowler hats and rolled umbrellas for, as we are still members of the gang, we can, should we choose, cycle around wearing a striped T- shirt with a beret and garlanded with a string of onions. We could also of course, don a Loden coat and a green felt hat mit feather or even casually throw an Armani jacket over our shoulders and, with our license to pinch bottoms tucked in our pocket, cruise the Avenidas, And we have permission, after our kleftiko dinner is finished, to throw the plates on the floor happy in the knowledge that our hand-carved Dutch wooden clogs will protect our feet from the broken china. Because – hurray – we are still officially Continentals. We are those people who, as teenagers, we used to envy (they were cool before cool existed). We may have had the music, but they had the style, the chic and the je ne sais quoi. And right now we are still members of the club – the one that is now made up of 27.5 individuals who all wear the tie, (a natty little number in blue with gold stars) but each chooses to wear it in a different way. And there is the nub of the problem: some tie it in a Windsor knot, others a half-Windsor, or wear it as a cravat, or a bandana, or even to hold up their trousers. All making the point that they want the tie that gives access to doors that otherwise would remain closed, but that they will wear it in the manner of their own choosing. That is because all are individuals who for centuries have done their own thing and would like to continue to do so. It is perhaps a mite unfortunate that one of those things was habitually killing each other but what the heck, we have since kissed, made up and moved on. And long may our uneasy and mistrusting relationship remain. There’s a big but here.... However, thinking clouds and silver linings, I do see certain opportunities arising from the UK’s impending/pending/ possible/maybe departure. I am presently waiting for a rather important delivery from Amazon and if it doesn’t come into stock before the UK leaves this civilised world there could well be duty to pay if tariffs are put in place. But historically, when duties are imposed on goods the result is smuggling, something Brits, from as early as the

13th century, have been rather good at. With many miles of poorly protected, easilyaccessible shores, smuggling was a major and profitable trade for entire towns. Forget Nissan leaving Sunderland for Japan, or even Jaguar/Land Rover going from Solihull to Slovakia, because it is possible that a mini economic power-house could arise around our glorious south-eastern coast Passengers flying out of UK airports would once again get there four hours early in order to spend their holiday money in the born-again duty-free shops and Ryanair could increase its profits by charging extra for each bottle of Gordons or carton of Rothmans taken on board. The towns could be regenerated with nocturnal activities for the retired octogenarians of Eastbourne, Worthing, Hove and even as far west as St Ives. Instead of sitting in a bus shelter on the promenade with a knotted handkerchief on their heads and staring at the sea all day they would be sleeping soundly after a hard night’s work offloading dutyfree delicacies such as Camembert, Brie and Reblochon from small boats, They could throw away their Zimmer frames and velcrofastened slippers and enjoy the excitement of running from the excise men and border guards. They could hide behind the groynes on the beaches and later meet up at the pub with their fellow miscreants for fois-gras nibbles at 3am, sharing a well-deserved bottle of Rémy Martin XO with the black-marketeers, whose heads will have risen over the parapet as they enjoyed their new-found profession. The camaraderie between such fellows could be wonderous; instead of hanging around God’s waiting room, relationships could develop, with the romance of illegal scurrying around under a moonlit sky rejuvenating the elderly and reducing the waiting times within the NHS on the southern coast. And that’s what I call a win-win situation. Who knows, perhaps the mop-haired blond politician and his tweedy beer-swilling sidekick were on to something.

We are still officially Continentals. We are those people who as teenagers we used to envy. They were cool before cool existed

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