SIMPLY
ALGARVE ISSUE NO. 41 SEPTEMBER 19
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Contents
RICHARD BASSETT
JAKE BASSETT
SUSI ROGOL-GOODKIND
DENIS O’LEARY
PUBLISHER Richard Bassett
4 WORTH KNOWING News, views, and some very good ideas
8 THE CHURCHES OF TAVIRA
EDITOR Susi Rogol-Goodkind +351 965 581 831 susi@rogol-goodkind.com
The history and the present day
12 WHAT’S BREWING Craft beers rock on forward
ART DIRECTOR Jake Bassett +351 966 044 143 simplyalgarvemag@gmail.com
16 FAVOURITE PLACES The images that capture the brief 18 FASHIONISTA FOOTNOTES Now is the time to get into trainers
CONTRIBUTORS Anthony Martin Carolyn Kain Chris Partridge Chris Wright Gail Priestnall José Almeida Lynne Booker Mary Berry Ricardo Chaves Richard Hudson Robert Bijker Russell Newton
20 WAY TO GO Taking to the sea... and the sky
24 MAKING AN ENTRANCE Doors that tell their own story
26 PROPERTY OF THE MONTH Luxurious countryside living
28 GET COOKING Mary Berry stirfries a treat
31 WHY ARE YOU HERE? Falling for the Algarve’s charms
32 A BIG BITE OF APPLE
ADVERTISING Denis O’Leary +351 912 678 194 denisoleary48@gmail.com
The latest in the product line up
34 AS SAFE AS HOUSES Property market update
37 RESTAURANT OF THE MONTH We find a treasure in the hils near Querenca
38 GADGETS & GIZMOS The gadgets that keep an eye open
40 FINANCE
DISTRIBUTION 6,000 copies monthly, distributed via 100+ quality retailers, shopping centres, restaurants and more within the central Algarve region.
Making your money work for you
41 MONEY MATTERS Your questions answered by our expert 42 NOT TO BE MISSED
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
Get the diary out and plan your month
49 SPORTS NEWS Where it is all happening
50 LAST WORD Pausing for thought, biting nails
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News
NEED TO KNOW Cover image: Marina de Vilamoura by Cristina Bergoglio, at ArtCatto, Loulé
We bring you more news, local happenings, shop openings, bright ideas as well as helpful hints and charity updates, so you know what to look out for where. Send us your news, too – we’ll always include anything of special interest
LOOKING AFTER MEN’S HEALTH
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he Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride was founded in Sydney, Australia by Mark Hawwa. It was inspired by a photo of Don Draper of TV show Mad Men, astride a classic bike and wearing his finest suit. Mark decided a themed ride would be a great way of connecting niche motorcycle enthusiasts and communities while raising funds to support men‘s health. If you have been to Mar Shopping in the past few weeks, you will hve seen the centre’s support for the Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride which, in addition to a line-up of classic and vintage bikes, included a photography exhibition of the best moments of the initiative in 2018, tattoo sessions with Paulo Badinha of studio Badinha Tattoo, and appropriatelystylish hair trims at The Barber House. Key to this major better-health initiative that is active in more than 700 cities in 110 countries, has been the need to
raise funds and awareness for prostate cancer research and men’s mental health. At the time of going to press more than 77,000 riders had registerered – 205 in Portugal – and close to US$3,500,000 raised. From now until 20 October, Mar Shopping in partnership with the HPA Clinic, will offer all men a free blood analysis and screening service; appointments must be made in advance at the HPA Clinic at MAR Shopping or by contacting 707 28 28 28.
SNEAKER PEEK
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eady to step out in the new season’s footwear? Sneakers are the big story and the fancier the better, as you’ll see on page 20. You’ll need an adventurous approach to fashion, as well as a hefty budget for some of the designerdriven brands, but if fancy footwork is your thing, you’ll be spoilt for choice this autumn. We love these, by Orlebar, that come in a great range of colours. You will find them and lots more to whet your appetite for style at Dunas Lifestyle in Quinta Shopping.
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DRIVE AGAINST PLASTIC
ccording to online campaigner SumofUs, who petition a growing audience to raise key issues with politicians, the public appetite to fix the global plastic crisis is getting through to supermarket chains in the UK; Sainsbury’s has promised to scrap plastic bags from its fruit and veg sections with immediately effect as part of a plan to halve the plastic packaging in its stores by 2025. Joining the campaign, Waitrose is giving shoppers in six stores the option to shop plastic-free. All supermarkets are being urged to offer loose produce, priced more cheaply, or no more than plasticwrapped equivalents. Plastic pollution is one of the biggest threats to our oceans. A total of 8 million tonnes of plastic ends up in our seas every year and as a result, it is estimated that every year, over a million seabirds and over 100,000 other marine animals – like sea
turtles and whales – die. Here in Portugal, Lidl sold 25 million plastic bags last year, which corresponds to a turnover of ¤2.5 million per year as each bag costs 10 cents. The phasing out of plastic bags across its 250 stores here is due to be complete in December this year, with paper or raffia bags offered as an alternative. In August, the Portuguese parliament voted to end the distribution of plastic bags and disposable non-renewable containers for food products such as bread, fruits and vegetables. A draft law by Portugal’s Green Party to ban ultra-lightweight plastic bags and polystyrene trays from June 2020 onwards, has been approved. Do your bit now – don’t buy anything pre-wrapped in plastic. When stores are left with foods that are past their sell-by dates, they’ll think twice about re-stocking them.
THE MOST INSTA-WORTHY COCKTAILS
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ere are the top five most beautiful cocktails according to Instagram: 1 Mojito - 4.2 million Instagram hashtags 2 Bloody Mary - 1.4 million hashtags 3 Piña Colada - 1.1 million hashtags 4 Pimm’s - 445,000+ hashtags 5 Bellini - 407,000+ hashtags
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News
ANOTHER WIN FOR VILAMOURA
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lready with a clutch of awards to its name, Vilamoura Marina was voted ‘International Marina of the Year 2019/2020,’ by the Yacht Harbour Association at the Southampton Boat Show. What makes this title so valued is that boat owners themselves nominate contenders, choosing from 160 marinas with Gold Anchor accreditation. Vilamoura Marina has a current capacity of 825 moorings, a fully operational shipyard, a professional training centre, a strong commercial environment and the marina is a host to various international nautical events, such as the 2019 420 sailing World Championship. And for non-boaters, there are plenty of shops, restaurants, bars and clubs, making the Marina a destination hugely popular destination for tourists and locals alike.
AN EATING EXPERIENCE
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elebrate the Day of the Dead. A spectacular food event will be held at Casa de Mondo in Boliqueime on Saturday 2 November. The €45 per head price includes a welcome cocktail, possibly the best Mexican cuisine you have ever tasted, complimentary drinks, and a programme of traditions and surprises throughout the night. It will be noisy, and great fun. Limited places available for what promises to be a real foodie special. Email info@casademondo.com for info and to book.
EDP FINED A WHACKING €48M
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s reported in Algarve Daily News, the production arm of Energias de Portugal, the country’s leading power utility, has been fined ¤48m for abuse of market dominance over a five-year period, with the regulators saying it was responsible for “a serious restriction of competition”. The Competition Authority (AdC) stated that EDP Produção, had manipulated its tele-regulation services between 2009 and 2013 to the detriment of consumers, manipulated its services in such a way that it was “paid twice”, simultaneously receiving higher compensation payments for one set of generating plants and higher revenues from another set. EDP said it would appeal against the decision, stating it
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had “always acted in accordance with the existing legal and contractual framework and with competition law in mind”. EDP shares were down 1.46 percent on 20 September. This news came as EDP and BP jointly inaugurated the first of 30 fast-charging electric car stations in Faro. The two companies are already committed to opening ten more across Portugal in the coming weeks, meeting the commitment to promote electric vehicles here.
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GOOD WORKS
aroline Langston first got involved with charity work here in 2017 when she helped an elderly Portuguese woman who was in a far from ideal living situation. She had no idea how much work was involved but found some amazing people who helped her make a success of the endeavour. Through this, she fast came to realise that a Facebook group would be a useful tool for everyone interested in putting something back into the community. Caroline explains: “There are many amazing people, all with different expertise, some people working at grass roots level and needing help; some people with fabulous ideas but no time to act on their ideas; still more who want to help but don’t know
where they can be useful. And there are people who have things to donate but don’t know to whom or where. The aim of the Portugal Charity Chat Room Facebook Group is to bring these all these people together.” The group has begun to create resource sheets to help charity event organisers, the first being a list of potential stall holders for fundraising events; in the pipeline is a calendar of charity events and activities and more useful resource lists. Read more about the Group and its forthcoming activities in the next issue of Simply Algarve, but in the meantime, visit facebook. com/groups/122787495084085/
BACK TO SCHOOL… ANOTHER TRIUMPH FOR ACCA
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he result of many months of work as well as the kindness and generosity of donors across the Algarve, has meant that ACCA, in its joint campaign with Castelo dos Sonhos, has topped its previous best by providing back-to-school essentials for more than 700 needy youngsters who, without the charity’s help, would not be able to take part in classes. Back packs loaded with exercise books, pencils and pens, rubbers and rulers, compasses and calculators have now been distributed and will make a big difference to the lives of the recipients. ACCA’s Gwenda Daud who heads the annual drive, Sue Coles Butler of Castelo dos Sonhos and Su Davies of Families in Need in the Algarve, were overwhelmed by the response to their request for support and would like to thank everyone who left items at the elected drop-off points throughout the region, filled collection boxes or donated by bank transfer. Without that extra help, the campaign would not have been able to meet its ambitious target. The biggest donor this year was Four
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Seasons Fairways in Quinta do Lago, who gave ¤1,000, and items for school were also bought through a charity distribution centre. Other real estate companies donated too, in large and small amounts. Substantial monies came from Arm in Arm - The Charity Van; Monte da Palhagueira Retirement Village Book Club; Carvoeiro Masons; CASA Social Club; East Algarve Walking Football; St Luke’s Church Palhagueira and Pereiras Church Almancil, Santa Barbara Smile, and the ladies of Quinta do Lago golf. Thanks go, too, to the Golf Shack and Overseas Supermercados Portugal. One lady donated from Canada getting her friends involved; another asked those attending her birthday party to bring donations to the back to school programme instead of buying her gifts; and a further donor gave a great quantity of Portuguese dictionaries for students beginning 2º cyclo. For further information about ACCA initiatives and how you can get involved, contact gwendadaud@gmail.com
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Discovering
Tavira Centre
THE CHURCHES... Visiting Tavira for the first time one cannot help but be amazed at the number of churches dotted throughout the enchanting Portuguese town on the Gilão River – to many the prettiest in the Algarve. Just 28 kms from the Spanish border and with a population of 25,000, it is a place to stop at, relax in, and appreciate, says Lynne Booker
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avira´s many religious buildings reflect its immense importance in the history of medieval Portugal – there have been more than 37 in the two parishes of Tavira. There are four distinct periods of religious life in Tavira. During the first 150 years of the Christian Kingdom, after its conquest from the Moors in 1242 by the knights of the Order of Santiago, the new religion established itself through the destruction of mosques and the construction of new gothic style churches. Second, the years of Portuguese imperialism in Morocco (1415 – 1769) gave a great impetus to the construction of chapels and churches in Tavira. When the Portuguese fortress of Arzila in Morocco was under attack in 1508, for example, the relief expedition assembled on the Atalaia plain in Tavira numbered over 25,000 men, and in thanksgiving for the survival of Arzila after that particular crisis, D Manuel I founded the Mosteiro da Nossa Senhora da Piedade in the town. Third, after the suppression of the monasteries in 1834, the town endured 160 years of decline, and many church
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buildings were abandoned or neglected. Lastly, as the town begins to enjoy an economic revival because of its tourist potential, its re-found prosperity has led to church restorations, and the foundation of new churches. The history of Tavira is replete with Confrarias (Brotherhoods) many of which had their own chapels such as São Sebastião, São Roque and Nossa Senhora do Livramento, while others were established in the existing churches. These brotherhoods used to hold religious processions in the town, and the images they carried were kept for the remainder of the year in their particular chapels. As some of the brotherhoods have ceased to exist, and their chapels have been deconsecrated, their religious artefacts have usually been taken in by another church. The Suppression of the Monasteries The Civil War in Portugal (1828 – 1834) was a defining time in the country’s history, and the victorious Liberal Constitutionalists determined to eliminate the support given by the religious houses to the Absolutist enemy. In England, the monasteries were closed and their wealth was
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OF TAVIRA appropriated by Henry VIII after 1536. Three hundred years later in 1834, a similar closure happened in Portugal. The state closed all male houses with immediate effect, and female houses were forbidden to take in any novices, and were closed and sold after the death of the last occupant. These closures, of course, led to the alienation of much former church property, both buildings and religious artefacts, which were sold for the benefit of the state treasury. The Government Minister in charge of this process was Joaquim António de Aguiar, nicknamed mata-frades, the killer of friars. In a town which hosted six religious houses, these closures were bound to have a catastrophic effect on urban life. They ensured that Tavira lost both its position as the largest town in the Algarve, and also its position of the seat of the Governor of the Algarve. The new office of Civil Governor was based in Faro. The First Republic (1910 – 1926) The Implantation of the First Republic on 5 October 1910 was characterised by a violent anti-religious movement, led by the energetic Lisbon radical Afonso Costa. Soon after the establishment of the Republic, the religious orders were not only again suppressed in Portugal, but their members were also expelled from the country, the Jesuits being particularly humiliated. The Law of Separation of Church and State was enacted in April 1911, and religious property passed into state ownership with the result that more church property became alienated, and religious buildings acquired a pattern of ownership which is both irregular and difficult to trace. In Tavira, some of the effects of the Law of Separation
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Church of Santa Maria do Castelo
are as follows. The Câmara now owns certain of the buildings (eg the chapels of Santa Ana, São Sebastião, São Roque); the church owns others (Santa Maria, Santiago, São Paulo, São Brás); and various brotherhoods yet others (Third Order of São Francisco; the Third Order of Our Lady of Carmo; Nossa Senhora do Livramento). São Pedro Gonçalves Telmo was originally owned by the Compromisso Marítimo, and passed into the ownership of the Regional Centre of Social Security in Faro, now jointly with the Câmara. Some other church buildings are owned by private individuals. The town today The Câmara ensures that 13 of Tavira´s churches are open to the tourist public during the summer months: the two parish churches, Santa Maria and Santiago; the Third Order churches of São Francisco and Nossa Senhora do Carmo; the ex-monastery chapel of São Paulo; the churches of Misericórdia, Nossa Senhora das Ondas, Espírito Santo; and the chapels of São Sebastião, Santa Ana, Nossa Senhora do Livramento, Nossa Senhora da Piedade and Nossa Senhora da Consolação. There a further five not open to the public: São Roque, São Brás, Santo António, São Pedro and Nosso Senhor do Calvário. There are yet others which have been deconsecrated, and have non-religious uses: Mosteiro de Nossa Senhora da Piedade, Nossa Senhora da Graça, Convento do Carmo. A further nine have either disappeared or been ruined. And there are five new non-Catholic churches or meeting houses. Tavira is truly a religious town, one with an immensely important heritage and a place to explore and enjoy.
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Saint Mary of the Castle (Santa Maria do Castelo) church
Igreja do Convento de Nossa Senhora da Graça, now a Pousada
História presents daily fado shows in a stylish venue, equipped with a multimedia system. Enjoy a 35-minute live music performance with Portuguese guitar, classical guitar and voice traveling through some of the most representative traditional fados and a Port wine tasting accompanied by Algarve’s finest dry fruits. Rua Damião Augusto de Brito Vasconcelos 4 Restaurante Abstracto If you’re looking for a typical Portuguese restaurant, this is for you! In our opinion it’s one of the best Cataplana and sea food restaurants in the area. Staff are friendly and all speak English. There is a good size terrace to enjoy a light lunch or a hearty dinner. Rua Doutor Antonio Cabreira 34 Nomad Lounge Terrace Bar Enjoy a cocktail and watch the sunset and the best views over Tavira. Nomad Lounge Terrace Bar is the rooftop bar at Maria Nova Hotel. Stylish decoration and a wonderful terrace, this adults-only bar is a great way to start your evening. Rua Antonio Pinheiro 17 Islamic Museum Located in the Tourist information centre and built around the remains of an Islamic-era structure, this small 21st-century museum exhibits impressive Islamic pieces discovered in various excavations around the old town. One of the most important finds on display is the Tavira vase, an elaborate ceramic work with figures and animals around the rim. handouts are available at reception. The top floor of the museum is dedicated Multilingual to temporary exhibitions with a local theme. Praca da Republica 5 Biblioteca Municipal Álvaro de Campos Architecture buffs should pay a visit to Tavira’s municipal library, which was originally the town prison. João Luís Carrilho da Graça sympathetically converted the former prison’s facade and cells into a modern, harmonious cultural space in 2005, which hosts occasional exhibitions. Rua da Comunidade Lusíada 21
Interior of Church of Misericordia
TALKING POINTS... What to see in Tavira Camera Obscura The old water tower was built in 1931 on the top of Santa Maria near the Moorish castle to supply water to the entire city of Tavira. It now hosts the first and only Camera Obscura in the Algarve. The Camera Obscura, installed in the renovated tower of Tavira, offers spectacular panoramic views over the city of Tavira with its many points of interest, to the Gilao river and the lagoon system of the Ria Formosa. Calçada da Galeria 12 Fado com História Right next to the Misericórdia Church, Fado com
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Tavira D’Artes gallery Tavira D’Artes aims to support and popularise local, national and international artists and their work. The Gallery has a welcoming and friendly atmosphere, housing an ever-changing exhibition of paintings, photography and sculptures. The continuing aim of Tavira D’Artes is to make art accessible to all, and demystify the world of ‘contemporary Fine Art’. Travessa Jacques Pessoa, 8 8800-374 Kozii Shop Simply beautiful and contemporary clothing made using ancient, slow and delicate art forms. Among other processes woodcock printing remains its star technique consisting of transferring patterns onto textiles by means of hand-carved wooden blocks. Rua Dr. Augusto da Silva Carvalho, 2C and Travessa Dona Brites, 8 Sitio Café A modern bar located close to the river in the centre of town. Don’t expect great service, but sit back and enjoy the sunshine while you wait for a drink and the best toastie in town. Trust us, you won’t be disappointed! Our favourite is the garlic prawn toastie… might sound odd, but don’t knock it until you’ve tried it. Largo Trem 28
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Craft-conscious
WHAT’S BREWING There’s beer, and there’s craft beer, with a big and tasty difference between the two. Gary Hosmer and son-in-law Neil Conchie launched Algarve Rock last year, a mass of gleaming vats and wonderous aromas at Parq Vale da Venda near Faro. We plied Neil with questions while he plied us with tastebuds wake-ups Why here? For the past ten years my father-in-law and I had both been holidaying in Quinta do Lago and fell in love with the Algarve. It’s a great spot for a good work -life balance. And for me the golf and padel tennis opportunities make it perfect. Why beer? We have always really appreciated craft beer. We´ve experienced the explosion in the UK and US and decided that we wanted to make a beer that the Algarve can be proud of. The craft beer dynamic is yet to happen in Portugal so it seemed that the time was right. What research did you do into the market? We drank lots of beer from all over the world and especially craft beer from hot countries. We found that there wasn´t much available here in Portugal. And the legalities of opening the business? We had to jump through many hoops to get up and running. It was probably the most frustrating part and took a full year. How did the company name come into being? We needed ‘Algarve’ as core to the branding to meet our mission of making a beer that the region could truly support. My wife and I got married at Pine Cliffs and while the photos of the red cliffs were striking. ‘Cliff´ didn´t work as part of the company name. ‘Rock’, however, is really powerful and a perfect fit because of its association with the Algarve coast. Was your capital investment hefty? Yes indeed… around the ¤1 million mark. Explain the differences between beer and craft beer - in
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taste, in brewing techniques, in nutritional values. Our beer adheres to the 500-year-old German Beer Purity Law – essentially, there are only four ingredients in craft beer: water, hops, malted barley and yeast. Sadly for the end consumer, beer companies do not have to state all of the ingredients on the bottle label, which is why you won’t often see the full list for industrial beer. You will, however, see them on craft beer labels. There are no chemicals in Algarve Rock products. Our water replicates Burton-onTrent water, known as the finest in beer making. And our lagers take five weeks in the fermentation and maturation stage, as opposed to the five days for industrial products. Was here ever any doubt in your mind about the potential of the business? The first year was the most difficult. We invested a tremendous amount of money, without the ability to brew and sell due to licensing. Now the beer is flowing though, sales pick up month on month and the sleepless nights have become more infrequent. You have a partnership with a UK brewer. What’s his background? Our Master Brewer, Mike Hitchen, is ex Fullers, one of the largest producers of real ale in the UK. He has a huge amount of experience making award-winning beers and has been and continues to be, our mentor. What are the key lessons you have had to learn? Industrial beer producers have tremendous power and can entice outlets to ignore a locally-made craft beer. It is a worldwide problem, but we are chipping away into their dominance. Eventually, quality speaks volumes and ours shines through. Also, introducing a new product to the end consumer is really difficult. We have to stretch every euro
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to the max as we do not have the financial muscle of the industrial breweries. How many people do you employ? We team up with distributors to assist with the sales, delivery, and account management. At present we have seven people in house but when we factoring in our distribution channels, this increases dramatically. How did you first spread the word? We focused quite heavily on social media and door knocking on potential outlets. We found that bar owners and their team were very receptive to a local beer. Some consumption figures please. The beer industry in Portugal is worth around ¤1 billion annually, roughly split 50:50 between Super Bock and Sagres. The craft beer market share is a fraction of a percent. However, Sagres has acknowledged that the sector will grow to five percent in the next few years. In the UK, the craft beer market share is 18% and in the US it is 25%. Is there any price resistance here? We have a 3,000 litre brewhouse, so every brew is around 2,800/3,000 litres. This is far bigger than many other microbreweries in Portugal and Spain and means that we can produce more affordable craft beer. Bars will likely sell our beer for ¤1 more a caneca, and that is not a problem to discerning beer drinkers. Where do your raw ingredients come from? Mainly Belgium but the hops come from all of the world. How do consumers hear about Algarve Rock – or do they simply see it in a bar? The beer community is very good at sharing recommendations so we get a lot of word-of-mouth referrals. Social media and some magazine advertising work well and of course, the best way to be exposed to our beer is in a bar where it is readily available. Social media is fantastic. We like to keep things light hearted and fun as people can really connect with a brand through the various platforms. Tell us about your move towards an alcohol-free beer in your product line up. There is a real buzz around non-alchohol beers. I am asked on a daily basis so this
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Craft-conscious
is definitely something that we will be working on for 2020. It’s all in the brewing process and mainly involves boiling off the alcohol. What goes on at your gleaming headquarters – what do you offer the consumer? We run tours of the brewery. A private tour for eight or more people, includes snack food pairing and lots of beer tasting. We´ll soon be opening our taproom on certain days of the week for people to pop in and try the beers – the opening times will be announced on our socials and website soon. It is also possible to pop by and purchase from our shop where we have plenty of bottles and merchandise. Some people enjoy renting a portable dispense system and purchasing one or two 30litre kegs for their holiday/party. And what, if anything, are you doing for the region? Well, apart from the investment we have made in developing a business here, we employ local people. Spent grain goes to local farmers. And, of course, we are giving everyone the opportunity to enjoy a new and healthier taste. Ours beers contain exactly what it says on the label.
TALKING POINTS... Fancy visiting, tasting and buying? There are currently six beers in the product range, Sharp Pilsner, Solid Red Ale, Session IPA, Rock Stout, Steady Pale Ale and Sure Weiss; there is also a special – Piri Piri Pilsner. Unconventional names for unconventional beers. But who wants to be ordinary anyway! All priced at ¤25 for a box of six. You can order online, but don’t miss the delight of a tour. Contact Algarve Rock on 289 815 203 and check out algarverock.com...
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Snap happy
FAV OURITE PLACES Ask anyone about their favourite place and they will wax lyrical. A photographer, however, will have captured it at the right time of day and in the best light, often with magical results
Tony Woods Title: The Passage Where: Tavira Why: It is not photographed that often at this time Camera: Canon 5dmk2
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Fred Bos Title: Communication with the World Where: Cerro de São Miguel, Olhao Why: Being a radio amateur I find the various aerials interesting. The walk to the top is tasking but one is rewarded with 360 degrees views and lots more of these monsters; and you are normally all alone. Camera: Nikon D80
John McComish Title: Rio de Quarteira Where: Near the village of Paderne, north of Boliqueime Why: Many visitors to the Algarve associate it with beaches, golf and ‘fun in the sun’. Yet just a few kilometres inland are my favourite places where I go to see the quiet of the Algarve. I’m a regular walker in the Algarve hills and countryside and this photo captures it all for me: a man, his dog and a typical country house. Camera: Sony RX-100
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Trend setters
FASHIONISTA FOOTNOTES Forget classic trainers unless you’re there for the sport. Statementmaking designer sneakers will be doing the high-fashion rounds this season – the bigger, bolder and brasher the better. The name on the label is vital; and sets the money no object price tag Checkered and chunky by Dior,€950 Freya suede sneakers by Fitflop, €130
Strawberries and stripes by Gucci, €790
Paintbox brights by Nike, €135
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Triple S sneakers by Balenciaga, €745
Originals Falcon by Adidas, €130 Leather high-tops by Balmain, €650
Acne Studios Bertrand-paneled suede sneakers by Acne Studios, €590
SHOPPING AROUND mytheresa.com has an amazing selection of designer names and sneakers weird and wonderful Dunas, Quinta Shopping Fashion Clinic, Quinta Shopping La Dolce Vita, Amancil JD Sports in Mar Shopping Adidas and Puma in Designer Outlets, Mar Shopping Skechers, Forum Algarve ... and there’s always Seaside for bargain prices
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Bouclé sneakers by Tod’s,’ exclusive to Mytheresa, €520
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Flying high
WAY TO GO!
Seaplanes and flying boats went from wartime essentials here in Portugal to first choice in travel for the seriously wealthy. Carolyn Kain tells the story
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hroughout the seasons, ferries from Olhão cross the tranquil waters of the Ria Formosa. Invariably, the lagoon is calm, as residents and tourists head for the peaceful sandbar islands of Armona and Culatra. On the journey to Farol, on the island of Culatra, passengers take little notice of a group of ramshackle huts and houses. The ferry doesn’t stop but a signboard indicates that this hamlet of mostly derelict buildings is named Hangares. A century ago the scene would have been much different when Hangares was operating as the Algarve’s Centre of Maritime Aviation. The infrastructure, including a pier, seaplane hangers and a radio transmission station, were built in 1917, following the signing of an accord between the French and Portuguese.
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The First World War was at its height and German submarines were sinking allied shipping. This was becoming a serious problem particularly affecting French merchant ships sailing along the Portuguese coast. In order to support the War effort and to reduce the threat from German vessels, Portugal agreed to use French seaplanes to undertake surveillance of its coast. The base at Hangares was set up to cover an area between the port of Vila Real in the Algarve and Milfontes in the Alentejo. In Aveiro, a second naval aviation base by the lagoon was to be responsible for surveying Portugal’s north coast. Another base at Lisbon docks on the River Tagus was the first to be supplied with two French seaplanes. All three bases benefitted from their locations beside calm waters. Being suitable for the take off and landing of seaplanes, it avoided the necessity to build concrete runways.
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Hangares Island today
Boeing 314 Clipper
With the conclusion of the War in 1918 – and before Hangares was in operation – the project came to an end. Instead, Hangares provided support for naval manoeuvers and, in the late 1920s when the Portuguese Navy purchased a number of CAM 37A French seaplanes, it became a training base for naval pilots. During the Second World War, Portugal was a neutral country and the base at Hangares had no role to play. In 1952 it was decommissioned and closed. Today only the foundations of the original buildings can be seen but on 30 August 2017 a centenary anniversary was held when a monument commemorating Portugal’s involvement in the 1914-1918 War was unveiled. Dignitaries and islanders gathered by the pier to witness and applaud the flypast and landing on the water of a modern seaplane.
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Travel for the wealthy It is certain that in Portugal‘s early days of naval aviation, air traffic on the Ria Formosa caused a great deal of interest. However, the arrival of the first four-engine Boeing 314 Clipper in Lisbon was even more impressive. Bought by Pan American Airways this luxurious flying boat made its first
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Flying high
Gago Coutinho Biplane seaplane, Belem, Lisbon
Atlantic crossing in May 1939 carrying 22 passengers from Long Island, USA via Bermuda and the Azores. After a journey taking 22 hours, it landed on the Tagus close to where the Oceanarium is today. Much speedier than crossing the Atlantic by an ocean-going liner, Pan Am also paid special attention to the comfort of their wealthy passengers. A round-trip cost the equivalent of ¤10,000 in today’s money. Copying the high standards set by Cunard’s luxury liners, the interior of the Clipper was lavishly decorated with inlaid mahogany panelling and Art Deco furnishings. Stewards – named after similar personnel on ships – were dressed in immaculate uniforms and served four-course meals on linen tablecloths with silver place settings. Before passengers took to their beds in private bunks, they were able to attend to their ablutions in full size bathrooms with hot and cold running water. During the Second World War, Pan Am’s Clipper service between Lisbon and Long Island became a crucial lifeline to many American citizens and refugees. Since Portugal was not caught up in the War, people from all parts of continental Europe fled from the Nazis arriving to the safety of Lisbon. The city became busier than ever before and at the Pan Am office long waiting lists
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developed of people wanting to travel by Clipper. Crossing the Atlantic in a flying boat was judged to be much safer than a voyage by sea. One such passenger waiting for months in Lisbon for a flight was the famous American art collector Peggy Guggenheim. Her story and that of other refugees stranded in Lisbon is told in the play The Windsors In Portugal to be performed at São Brás Museum.
Travelling in style: Boeing 314 Clipper interior
TALKING POINTS... The Windsors In Portugal will be staged at São Brás Museum on 13 December at 7.30pm and 14 and 15 December at 4pm. For tickets call 966 329 073. For further information about Hangares see Memories Aviacão Naval 1917-1952 By Rosa Neves
October 2019
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toldos - awnings sun wind rain protection
toldolanda
info@toldolanda.com | www.toldolanda.com | 914 609 517
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October 2019
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History notes
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MAKING AN ENTRANCE Framed by impressive stone portals, Portugal’s front doors were often individually crafted and adorned with interesting knockers and ornate metal keyholes. Decades later these same front doors have become the subjects of artistic compositions, says Carolyn Kain
E
arly in the 20th century palatial townhouses were usually built with beautifully-panelled front doors enhanced by lattice fretwork, metal studs and wrought iron trimmings. Like the elaborate chimney pots so popular with the Portuguese, front doors were a status symbol indicating a homeowner’s wealth and good taste. Smaller residences were also given attention, their front doors brightly painted with carefully chosen door knockers adding character to their appearance. In Portugal and Spain the so-called ‘Hand of Fatima’ was by far the most popular door knocker and many can still be seen today. Showing the back of a woman’s hand –with a ring on the finger and a ruffle or bracelet around the wrist – it holds a brass or iron ball that strikes a metal panel on the door. Centuries before, during the Arab occupation of Iberia, these door knockers showed that the homeowner was of the Muslim faith. Fatima Zahra, the daughter of the prophet Mohammed, was thought to have the ability to ward off the Evil Eye so that to have her hand on the front door offered protection to the occupants. In the Jewish quarter of some Portuguese old towns, there is a different version of the hand. This is said to represent the ‘Hand of Miriam’ the sister of Moses and Aaron. More decorative in style it is an upturned palm with the shape of an eye in the centre and two thumbs at either side. A much later adaptation of the knocker shows the unadorned ‘Hand of the the Virgin Mary,’ without the addition of any jewellery. Considered to be more suitable for a Catholic country, it is approved by the Church, as is a stylised winged lion incorporated into some door knockers representing Saint John the Evangelist who, according to tradition, will keep the residents safe. Many of these older knockers have acquired an attractive green patina whilst the paintwork on the doors has flaked and crumbled. An ageing beauty has added an extra dimension to the original architectural features. Appealing especially to artists and photographers, these doors have become the subjects of detailed compositions capturing the past as seen in the present day.
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TALKING POINTS... Original paintings, photographs and fine quality giclees printed by Peter Trew are displayed at Galeria Corte- Real on the outskirts of Paderne. Signposted from Paderne, Ferreiras and Boliqueime. The Gallery is open Thursday to Sunday, 11am until 5pm T: 912 737 762 W: corterealarte.com
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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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October 2019
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OF THE MONTH PROPERTY DETAILS
Impeccable 4-bedroom villa with pool, large private plot and open views in a sought-after area close to Albufeira
• 4 modern double bedrooms • 4 luxurious en-suite bathrooms • Open plan living / dining room with cupula • Modern fully-fitted and equipped kitchen with breakfast area and pantry • Cloak room / storeroom • Large terraces / balcony • All bedrooms with fitted wardrobes • South-facing property • Air conditioning throughout (LG)
• Private pebble pool 10 X 5 m • Garage / double glazing • Mains water / sewage • Garden with automatic irrigation system • Only 1.5 km from the beach / golf course • Open views to countryside and sea • Total construction: 450m2 • Plot size: 3.400m2 • EC: In Progress
¤740,000 Ref: LFG www.simplyalgarvemag.com
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Simply delicious
KING PRAWN AND BROCCOLI STIR-FRY WITH BLACK BEAN SAUCE
Here’s a special, super-fast, delicious treat from queen of the kitchen, Mary Berry. If you can’t find oyster mushrooms, use chestnut mushrooms instead. Black bean sauce is fermented black or yellow soya beans Serves 4 Prep: 10 minutes Cook: 8 minutes Ingredients 2tbsp sunflower oil 2 large shallots, very thinly sliced 2cm knob of fresh root ginger, peeled and thinly sliced (see Talking Points) 1 fresh red chilli, deseeded and thinly sliced 350g peeled raw king prawns, deveined (see Talking Points) 250g broccoli, broken into tiny florets 150g oyster mushrooms, thickly sliced 6tbsp black bean sauce 2tbsp dark soy sauce Juice of 1/2 lemon Method Heat a large frying pan or wok until very hot. Add the oil, shallots, ginger and chilli and stir-fry over a high heat for 30 seconds.
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2
Push the vegetables to one side of the pan, then season the prawns with salt and pepper and add them to the centre of the pan.
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3 4
Fry for about two minutes until starting to turn pink. Tip in the broccoli and mushrooms, toss together using two spatulas and fry for two to three minutes. Mix the black bean sauce, soy sauce and lemon juice together in a bowl. Add to the pan and toss everything together well.
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Stir-fry for another two minutes until the prawns are cooked and the broccoli is just tender but still crunchy.
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Serve piping hot on its own or with rice or noodles.
TALKING POINTS... > To peel a small knob of root ginger, which can be a bit tricky to handle, take a teaspoon and scrape away the skin – it will come off easily. > Using raw prawns makes all the difference to this dish; if you use cooked prawns, they can become rubbery and lose their flavour. > This dish is best made and served immediately > Not suitable for freezing.
October 2019
Mary Berry, author of over 70 cook books which have sold over three million copies to date, brings her no-fuss, delicious approach to quick-fix, easy cooking. Quick Cooking (Ebury Publishing, ¤26.24 from Bertrand Livreiros, or a bit less from Amazon) is her latest – and the official tie-in to the BBC series of the same name. In it she shows how being in a rush will never be a problem again. Packed with colourful photography, the book includes over 120 new recipes.
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October 2019
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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
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.
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 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
MAN & VAN
!
NEED SOME HELP GETTING THINGS SAFELY FROM A TO B? GIVE US A CALL AND WE WILL MAKE IT HAPPEN.
Up and coming Events:
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October 2019
Saturday 2nd November please come join us at Casa de Mondo for our Special Event. Day of the Dead Celebration. Includes: Welcome Cocktail Mexican Cuisine Complimentary drinks Traditions and suprises throughout the night ¤45 per head Limited spaces Email for more information info@casademondo.com for reservations
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Reasons
WHY ARE YOU HERE?
Gail Priestnall, in just two short years, has built a fashion and décor business in Amancil that has attracted a big and appreciative audience. So much so, she has now opened her second shop – in Tavira – and business is booming Where are you from? Cheshire, in the UK
family and again carried out a complete renovation; we have never looked back.
Your profession? Fashion and Design was – and still is – both my profession and my passion. I walked out of school one afternoon after just turning 16, found myself a job with a manufacturing company the same day and started work the next morning. My role was that of office junior but I loved working and soon rose through the ranks to Contracts Manager, What followed was eight years of learning how to run a business; the experience was truly invaluable. I then decided to open my first fashion shop, specialising in occasionwear for sizes 8 to 50. As a buyer for my own store I found it impossible to purchase collections above a certain size so I started my own label which was manufactured in Cheshire. I travelled to various countries sourcing fabrics for my discerning customers and built a very successful brand The first time you visited the Algarve and why? I visited the Algarve for the first time as a small child although I can’t really remember the experience. The time I do remember is when I travelled with all of my family in 2000 and hired a villa in Vilamoura; I just loved it. The three things that made you fall in love with the place? I would have to say that the first thing I fell in love with was the glorious weather – even at a young age I always wanted to live in the sunshine. The second has to be the natural beauty and tranquillity here, and the third was the people and how friendly and welcoming they are. How many times and over what period did you visit before you decided to make the move? My family bought an old farmhouse here in 2006, It was a joint venture between my parents, my brothers and me. Once the properties were renovated we visited together or separately for many years. In 2012, I met my husband and we were married at our farmhouse and we returned there on a regular basis. In 2017 we decided to make the move to Portugal... it was either then or never. We purchased the property from my
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How do you spend your time here? Quite honestly I have never known time to fly by so quickly, I was busy in the UK but I’m just as busy now. Around 18 months ago I opened my first shop in Almancil – Florentinta at The Home Centre – initially selling paint. You see, we couldn’t retire completely, I for one needed something to do, so we found a company in the UK called Frenchic which manufactures Chalk Paint on a worldwide scale and we became the Portuguese distributors of this very special brand. Then – would you believe it – we started to bring ladieswear into the mix. I couldn’t resist carry on with my first love. At the beginning of August this year we opened our second shop in Tavira called Florentinta Boutique, In both shops we stock amazing smart casual wear and accessories sourced from across the globe, as well as the fabulous Robell trousers which are THE most comfortable trousers in the world. Your perfect place? There are so many beautiful places in the Algarve but my favourite is probably Tavira, I love its history, its culture and of the course the people. The traditional Portuguese streets and buildings are idyllic and have a feeling of romanticism, Being a true romantic at heart you can imagine that I feel quite at home in this town. And it is a great place to visit if you live in the central region – a splendid day out. Your perfect day? A leisurely stroll on the beach with my husband, lunch with the wonderful friends who mean so much to us both and an afternoon swim, followed later by watching the sun go down on another perfect Algarvean day with a glass of fullbodied red wine from the Alentejo region. Your favourite local dish? I am easy to please where food is concerned but my favourite dish is succulent local dorado or robalo cooked simply with olive oil and salt with a lovely colourful salad and a dish of new potatoes.
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More kit
A BIG BITE OF APPLE The latest have-to haves… Russell Newton looks at the just-launched additions to the Apple portfolio, from a TV chanel to a credit card to a watch that can take an electrocardiogram. Prepare to be impressed
E
ven as a self-proclaimed Apple fanboy, I’m still the first to admit that Apple devices don’t always have more features or better specs than those of the competition. That being said, it doesn’t stop all eyes in the industry focusing on Cupertino several times a year when, to great fanfare, Apple announces new products. Samsung, Huawei, Microsoft, and Google all recognise that Apple’s latest offerings are the ones to compete with, and to attempt to outdo. Very few companies in any other market find themselves in such a coveted position. September is the month that, traditionally, Apple tends make announcements or release new products; and this year they did not disappoint. Apple revealed a series of new devices, software, and services - that give several industries a new bar against which to measure themselves. iPhone Although this year’s iPhone is actually the 22nd distinct model to be released by the California-based company, for reasons too longwinded to explain here, it is named iPhone 11. As expected, the iPhone 11 has better everything than previous models – longer battery life, faster processor, greater water resistance, more durability, and a muchimproved dual-lens camera system that allows you to take wider-angle photos than before, and that performs brilliantly even in low-light conditions. The iPhone 11 comes in a choice of six beautiful colour options, and at a lower price-point than last year’s models. In addition to the iPhone 11, Apple also announced the
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Phone 11 Pro and iPhone 11 Pro Max which improve on each and every aspect of the standard model, even boasting triple-lens cameras that include telephoto functionality. The Pro models have better screens, longer battery life, and even better water resistance - capable of functioning to a depth of four metres for up to half an hour. Professional photographers and videographers are already releasing rave reviews of what can be achieved with the new iPhone and strongly suggest that this is a very worthy upgrade. These various iPhone 11 models come with Apple’s brand new iOS 13 operating system pre-installed. The same software is now available to download for older iPhones (6s or later). It introduces many new features including better battery life, improved camera and photos apps, a more advanced maps app, and a new optional dark mode. iPad For the first time iPad now has its very own operating system – iPadOS. Up until this month it shared iOS with its smaller-screened cousin, the iPhone. The new iPadOS software allows the iPad, iPad mini, iPad Air, and iPad Pro to take better advantage of the large touch screens, smart keyboards and amazing Apple Pencil. Because of these advancements many iPad users are
October 2019
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finding themselves leaving their ‘traditional’ PCs behind and are discovering new immersive ways to accomplish their daily tasks. Apple also announced a better entry-level iPad model at a lower price-point than before.
on your iMac at work, continue it on the your iPhone on the bus home, then complete it on your living room TV. Apple Arcade on Apple TV is even compatible with various gaming controllers.
Apple Watch Apple Watch Series 5 takes this wrist-based super computer to a new level. New features include an alwayson display and builtin compass. This is in addition to existing popular features such as all-day battery life, fall detection, weather updates, cellular calls (without a phone), heartrate tracking, and an ECG app (yes - it can take an actual electrocardiogram!) Oh, and it can also tell the time. The new Apple Watch comes in a wider choice of sizes, colours, and finishes including aluminium, stainless steel, titanium, and a beautiful white ceramic.
Apple Card Following Apple’s introduction of the iTunes store way back in 2003, millions of excited users around the world entrusted Apple with their credit card numbers to make the purchasing of music, movies, TV shows, eBooks, and Apps easy, seamless and, quite frankly, addictive. Then, in 2014, came Apple Pay. Apple reasoned it this way: If we already have your credit card details then why not use your secure devices to make purchases rather than using your card? Due to the hardware encrypted ‘Secure Element’ chip found in iPhones and Apple Watches, Apple Pay is substantially more secure than carrying your physical card around in public. You can leave your card safely hidden away at home, Apple suggested. Then came the next inevitable step: why even use a bank card at all? Apple Card is a revolutionary new credit card designed by Apple, not a bank. It embodies core Apple values like simplicity, transparency, and privacy. It is designed to help you easily understand your spending and, if you forget where you made a particular transaction, it can even use your iPhone’s built-in Maps app to remind you. It pays daily cashback on your spending, and actively encourages you to pay less interest. Oh, and there are no fees... not even hidden ones.
Apple TV+ Subscription-based television was popularised by the ubiquitous Netflix. Now, companies such as Disney, DC Comics and Apple are entering the foray. Apple has reportedly invested $6billion in brand new, exclusive new content with massive stars such as Steven Spielberg, Oprah Winfrey, Jason Momoa, and Jennifer Anniston contributing. The service which Apple calls Apple TV+ will cost ¤4.99 a month - or is free for a year with purchases of new Apple devices including the Apple TV 4K settop box. It goes live world-wide on 1 November.
For further information regarding any of Apple’s products and services visit apple.com
Apple Arcade Apple Arcade is an exciting new way to enjoy video games across all your Apple devices. Instead of purchasing games individually, Apple Arcade is available for a subscription fee of ¤4.99 per month (with a free one-month trial). It features over a hundred original and exclusive video games from independent developers and large game companies alike. Not only are the games of a very high quality, but up to six family members can download them to play on iPhone, iPad, Mac, and even the Apple TV set-top box meaning you can enjoy them on your big screen TV. What’s more, you can pause and pick up between all of your devices. You could start a game
TALKING POINTS... Russell Newton is an International Apple Trainer who works all over the planet training Apple Technicians and Support Professionals. He is also one of only four AppleCare Mentor Trainers in the world, and the only one outside of the USA. When he’s not globe-trotting, he is based in the Algarve offering Apple technical support and training in the region. He is looking forward to watching the Apple TV+ shows on his new iPhone 11 Pro. You can contact him on +351 933 544 652, or email him at me@russellnewton.com
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Property Update
AS SAFE AS HOUSES Robert Bijker of Happy Homes Algarve explains the many advantages of investment in properties that will be rented out to deliver an income – the opportunity to holiday there yourself is just one of them. The market is steady, and rental yields are around 4% – and that is good news in the current climate
I
t is no secret that a long-term investment in property is rewarding. In the short to medium term there can be price volatility but over time the return on investment is good and as such this should be part of a diversified investment portfolio. The demand for self-catering short-term holiday letting accommodation around the world took off after the Eurozone crises in 2012, due to the increased popularity of holiday rental portals such as Booking.com, HomeAway and AirBnB. In Portugal these dwellings are regulated under the Alojamento Local regime – popular among homeowners as the effective tax rate can be lowered to 8.7% of gross income by opening a rental activity, versus the 28% levied over long- term lets. Some blame the rise of short-term lets for driving up property prices and changing the social fabric of some neighbourhoods as homeowners are less interested in a long-term rental contract. Low-income families often
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struggle to find affordable housing. In order to alleviate the shortage of affordable housing the Portuguese government is allowing local councils to restrict the number of AL licenses in neighbourhoods where there are already many AL accommodations available. However, the government is only paying lip service to a problem that existed for several decades. The shortage of affordable housing is not going to be resolved by restricting short-term letting, as most are second homes for families who also want to stay in the property two to three times a year. Even if such a property would become available for a long let, the rent would be too high for these families. It is easy to forget that this relatively young industry brings in muchneeded investment and economic activity. Until a few years ago there were a large number of derelict houses in town centres which were not economically viable to renovate or rebuild as the going rental rate was too low to justify the investment.
October 2019
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Increased demand for property, in combination with the have an AL license and in case you do not have a license we introduction of tax relief for renovation in town centres and can assist you in securing one. There are also accountancy and special (read ‘lower’) interest rates to finance the work, law firms who can assist you with obtaining the AL license and changed the economics leading to many properties being rental activity at a cost between ¤450 and ¤700. renovated which in turn improved life in town centres. Happy Homes Algarve is arranging this for clients free of Part of the revenues the industry brings should be set aside charge so in the first year of renting your property you can by the Government to stimulate the construction of low-cost earn back a large part of the annual property management fee. housing in the form of subsidy and/or to offer a guarantee to banks who would normally not offer mortgages to low-income Vilamoura Office families. EN 125, Benfarras Boliqueime One could say that Portugal is a victim of its own success as 8100 - 068 Boliqueime the demand for rental property has increased dramatically over T: 289 301 294 / F: 289 301 439 the years due to the country becoming a popular destination and tax incentives such as the Non-Habitual Residency Tavira Office and Golden Visa programmes. Portugal has received many Rua Dr. José Pires Padinha 178 accolades – the most recent and more important one is that 8800 - 354 Tavira country has been voted for by expats as the best European T: 281 320 281 / F: 281 321 901 (AMI - 6232) country to live in based on the excellent quality of life, the good climate and ease of settling in. On a global scale Portugal www.yellowhomes.com came third out of 64 global destinations. The time to give something back to those who GOLF PROPERTIES - VILLAS - APARTMENTS - TOWNHOUSES - PLOTS have fallen behind is long overdue. Why has Portugal become so popular over the past years? The golden beaches, golf courses, excellent choice of food and friendly population have been around for a long time; it could well be that the increase in the number of available self-catering accommodations is the reason as they offer a different experience to that of hotels – a more unique experience that many people seem to appreciate. The reasons investors buy property in Portugal are as good DETACHED MODERN 4 BEDROOM PROPERTY ON A LARGE, PRIVATE PLOT NEAR LOULE. as ever: property is relatively easy This very attractive 4-bedroom single floor villa in the central Algarve is beautifully set on a to understand and if rented out generous plot of just over 7000m2 in a tranquil setting and with beautiful countryside views. The property, built in 2002, is located just a short drive away from the bustling market town of provides a decent return versus a Loule and from Almancil, and therefore close to some of the best beaches, golf courses and AMI: 6232 saving account or bonds (exotics all amenities. Price: €825.000 Ref: DZO EC: E. not included, as their risk profile Contact us! Our email is info@yellowhomes.com or call us on (+351) 289 301 294 makes them unsuitable for the Find out more info on our website www.yellowhomes.com average investor). In addition ownership offers you the option to holiday in your own investment property. Overall, the property market remains in good condition, just GOLF PROPERTIES - VILLAS - APARTMENTS - TOWNHOUSES - PLOTS less buoyant than in 2018. There is good demand for property as long as the price is right. With rental yields of around 4% there are still good investment opportunities to be found. Some properties are more suitable for letting than others. It depends on location, proximity to an international airport, outdoor space and having a (communal) pool or not just to name a few. Moreover, if the property you are interested in purchasing is overvalued, you will struggle ELEGANT COUNTRY HOME WITH 4 BEDROOMS AND POOL IN THE CENTRAL ALGARVE. to make a decent return on This exceptional Quinta ( 400 m2 built area) is designed to highest quality and is investment. conveniently located in the hills close to the charming town of Loule. The perfectly Happy Homes Algarve is maintained Villa, with lots of character and charm, is surrounded by natural, Mediterranean currently looking to add good vegetation and is only a short drive away from amenities, beaches and golf courses. Truly AMI: 6232 quality rental villas, townhouses unique property. Price €1.950,000 Ref: R-LLJ EC: E. and apartments to its portfolio Contact us! Our email is info@yellowhomes.com or call us on (+351) 289 301 294 in the East Algarve to offer its Find out more info on our website www.yellowhomes.com clients in 2020. The property must
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Markus 3 Seat Sofa Bed with chaise from
we know
€979
comfort & price are your
priority www.simpletaste.pt
Albufeira - Vale Paraiso - N125 - Retail Park - 8200-567 | MON-SAT 10.00-19.00 Almancil - Av. 5 de Outubro 284 - 8135-103 | MON-FRI 10.00-18.00
Tel: +351 289 516 695
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BRITISH STYLE AUCTION HOUSE
• Direct Sales • Business and House Clearances
Direct sales, Business and house clearance service, online catalogue, & Monthly Auctions! Free valuations and Monthly Auctions!
• Free Valuations • Online Catalogue
General Auctions Plus Antiques and Collectables General auctions are held on the 1st Saturday of the month and Start at 10:00 am.Viewings on the Thursday and Friday before the Auction between 09:00 and 17:00.
WANTED! ANTIQUE AND VINTAGE JEWELLERY AND HALLMARKED STERLING SILVER.
FURTHER DETAILS OF ALL AUCTIONS ARE ON OUR WEBSITE
Do you have antique and vintage jewellery you would like to sell? Have you got some hallmarked sterling silver items you no longer want? These items are creating a lot of interest at Auction at the moment and are achieving realistic prices.
WWW.AHALGARVE.COM
Why not give us a no obligation call to discuss what you may like to sell? We offer honest valuations and free advise to all potential sellers.
Open: Mon - Fri 09:00 - 14:00pm Sat: Open Auction days Email: valuations@ahalgarve.com Office: 289 832 380 Tel. Mark: 914 774 438 Sitio do Besouro, Conceição, Faro
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Dining out
RESTAURANT OF THE MONTH SOL E SERRA, QUERENCA
T
wenty years ago it was a snack bar, the place to stop for a coffee charge en route to someplace else. Then, four years ago, Osvaldo Santos, his wife Celeste, and their son Alexandre who trained as a chef under the watchful of eye some of the top names in Paris, moved from tosta mista and pasteis de nata to fine food, delivered with flair. And very fine it is. Imaginative fusions of flavours, unusual ingredients brought together with care, and the sort of presentation you would expect from a five-star establishment on the coast. The building itself has barely changed over the years. It is very local, very simple and certainly not decor-driven. But one doesn’t go to Sol d Serra to see the latest in luxury surroundings. One goes there to eat, and to eat something worth raving about afterwards. It is packed on Sundays, with every nationality of appreciative eaters, as well as locals who can’t get enough of Alexandre’s special dishes. The line up of starters includes succulent fried chicken wings, braised scallops with bacon, Bolinhas de Alheira (deep fried croquettes made with a thoroughly Portuguese sausage of mixed meats, bread and sometimes a hint of orange), scrambled eggs with mushrooms. There is nothing ordinary here, and no reference to fast food, which is a welcome relief. Celeste suggests, encourages a bit of expermentation, and serves – aways with a smile – and explains Alexandre’s specials of the day. It could be wild boar, or a confit of duck – it all depends what is local and at its seasonal best. During the summer local farmers bring in the best of their produce – ripe tomatoes, strawberries, plums, courgettes, and bunches of bright green coriander. The fish is local, too, caught that morning along the coast. Four of us went for lunch in September. Fish and chips were on the menu. Not any fish, but a huge chunk of hake in a crispy coating, with a stack of home-made fries with
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a hint of herbs. The linguine with seafood was amazing – forget the plate of pasta with couple of shrimps nestling atop, here it is a big bowl with moules, clams and big juicy prawns with a wonderfully-flavoured sauce that was light, perfectly-balanced and worth a return visit. And how nice to see a dessert selection of genuinely home-spun offerings, rather than something made earlier and delivered by an Aviludo van. The crème brûlée tasted like it used to, and the ice cream cannot be recomended highly enough – produced on the premises and in a whole range of flavours that appealed to Alexandre that very day. Sole e Serra is closed on Tuesdays, open for lunch and dinner the rest of the week, and closed for the month of January. Reckon on around ¤20 for three courses. And that in itself is delicious! Corte Garcia, Querença, 8100-120 Loulé T: 289 422 344 W: facebook.com/SoleSerra.Querenca
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Gizmos
GOING AWAY
A huge EDP bill and tea that’s passed its prime will make you think twice about certain forms of home automation, says Chris Partridge. Everything in the garden could be coming up roses, however
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K I’m going to say it. Out loud. Home Automation is pretty much a waste of time and money. After 30 years of development, the smart home is still pants, whatever the hype from an industry that desperately wants a new hit category to follow the smartphone. It is, of course, quite cool to get the lights to switch on just by saying “Alexa, switch the lights on.” And if you have multicoloured lights you can create all sorts of moods from workplace to romance, if you can be bothered. Most of the time, flicking the switch next to the door does the job quicker. They say, of course, that switching the house lights on while you are away deters burglars. Oh yeah? All it does is light up the room so any passing criminal can easily see it is empty. For a realistic ‘lights on, people in’ effect you would have to install motorised curtain rails, which cost a fortune (some ¤200-plus per window) and must be connected to the mains electricity. So you either run wires round the window frames and use up a precious socket, or rewire the house. You can get battery powered units but life is too short to recharge the curtains. Then there is the wifi kettle. Apparently, everyone needs to have the kettle cheerily boiling when they get in from the airport What they don’t point out is that the kettle does not fill itself – the water will have been standing in it since you left, possibly weeks previously. Which means your tea will taste perfectly foul.
There are, however, a couple of smart home items that are genuinely useful. One is home security, which I covered in Simply Algarve recently. The other is central heating control, which provides genuine cost savings when you are in, and allows you use your smartphone in the airport on your way home, so the house is nice and warm when you open the front door. But the main place where home automation delivers real benefits for people who spend a lot of time away is, unexpectedly, the garden.
And now some positives
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Plants don’t stop growing just because you are on holiday, and one of the really depressing things about the journey home is the nagging thought that you will arrive to find half the garden looking like a jungle and the other half dead from lack of water. A robot lawnmower will ensure the grass, at least, looks lovely when you get back. The latest robots are programmable so you can schedule optimum cutting, and they automatically go back into their charging dock when the battery gets low. They don’t store the clippings so the lawn gets well mulched. It is necessary to set up the area to be mowed by installing a boundary wire, but this is a very easy short job. The WORX Landroid S300 (about ¤569 from myrobotcenter.eu) navigates the lawn efficiently to minimise visits to the charging station. Its chunky rear wheels push it reliably up slopes. It even has an optional ‘find my landroid’ module which tracks it if it gets pinched. The Stihl iMow RMI 422 is a bit pricey at about ¤1,283 for the entry model, but it can cover a huge lawn (up to 800sqm) and has sensors to keep it clear of paths, bird tables, benches and so on. It can also adapt its cutting schedule so you don’t have to. Splashing out If you have a truly regal lawn, take a look at the John Deere tango E5. It costs an eye-watering few thou but can keep a 2,200sqm lawn under control with a good uniform cut. One interesting feature is that it finishes every job with a lap round the boundary wire to tidy up the edges as far as possible. People with holiday homes also get used to arriving home to a dispiriting array of wilted and dying plants if the weather has been at all warm. Automatic watering systems can keep everything in the best possible condition until you get back, though this also may apply to the weeds but nothing is perfect in life. The simplest system is a water controller that attaches to the outside tap, with a hose to a sprinkler. The Hozelock Sensor Controller Plus (about ¤45) uses a couple of AA batteries to avoid the need to connect it to the mains. A light sensor detects dawn and dusk, opening the tap to deliver a gush of water that you can set from two minutes to an hour. It also works with drip irrigation systems. If you want to control the watering process from the beach via your smartphone, however, you will need a more sophisticated system such as the Orbit B-Hyve (circa ¤100 from amazon.de) which has wifi and Bluetooth to connect to your home hub. Battery powered, it fits on the outside tap to control the water supply to your irrigation system or sprinklers. The B-Hyve app enables you to customise watering based on soil type, slope, sun exposure and live weather feeds. Very clever. If you want to go the whole hog and completely automate watering, take a look at the Gardena Smart System (not cheap at around ¤1,299 from myrobotcenter.eu)). It has its own wifi hub place in a window to cover the garden, and a sensor on a spike that measures air temperature, light intensity and soil moisture. The system also includes a tap-mounted water controller. The system is controlled by a smartphone app so you can keep an eye on what is going on from your other home. The sensor means the system can automatically increase the amount of water if the moisture level in the soil drops below a certain value.
Portugal Solicitors
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October 2019
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Finance
Sterling see-saws
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he past month was marked by significant volatility in the pound in response to a flurry of UK political developments. This saw the GBP/EUR trade between 1.09 and 1.13 with EUR/GBP retreating to 0.88. Meanwhile, GBP/USD climbed from 1.21 to 1.25 having struck a three-year low of 1.19 along the way, whilst EUR/USD held steady at 1.10. What’s been happening? The pound was affected by some dramatic swings over the past month, hitting some key levels against its peers as it was rocked by UK political developments. This began with Boris Johnson’s announcement that parliament would be suspended for five-weeks beginning early September, a move widely perceived as attempting to frustrate attempts to block a no-deal Brexit. Unsurprisingly, this knocked Sterling sentiment, even sending GBP/USD plummeting to a three-year low. However, subsequent movement in the pound has been largely positive, as Johnson faced a number of setbacks thought to lower the odds of a no-deal Brexit. This included the loss of his majority in parliament, the passing of a bill compelling him to seek another Brexit extension and the rejection of his calls for a snap election. Adding to the upside in Sterling was also a string of upbeat UK economic data, including a robust GDP reading, which helped to dispel concerns of a recession. Occupying almost all the attention of EUR investors over the last month has been the European Central Bank and its long awaited stimulus package. Alongside some worrying data from Germany, this kept a lid on the euro through much of August and the first half of September as markets speculated on what this package may include. The stimulus measures were ultimately received positively by markets, helping to buoy the single currency going into the second half of September. Finally, trade in the US dollar has been mixed in recent weeks. This has largely been in response to rising fears that a US recession could be looming following an inversion in the US bond yield curve as well as a shock contraction in the US manufacturing sector in August. The month was bookended by the Federal Reserve’s
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Stay on top of the latest currency news to time your transfers more effectively. Jose Almeida explains what you should be looking out for now... September policy meeting, which saw the bank cut interest rates again. However, the US dollar actually benefitted as the central bank’s forward guidance indicated that they may not cut rates again in 2019. The Bank of England (BoE), meanwhile, adopted a fairly neutral stance at its latest policy meeting as policymakers remain cautious about the Brexit outlook. What do you need to look out for? UK political developments are likely to continue to act as the main catalyst of movement in the pound as we get closer to the current Brexit deadline on 31 October. The upcoming EU summit in mid-October will likely be key for GBP investors, as all bets will be off if Boris Johnson fails to secure a deal by then. Meanwhile, the euro may struggle to find support over the coming month if German data remains in the doldrums. Europe’s largest economy looks to be teetering on the edge of a recession, with any additional sign that growth in the country will contract again in the third quarter likely to dent the appeal of the single currency. Finally, the US dollar may be particularly sensitive to economic data in the coming weeks, as markets look to gauge whether the US economy may be drifting towards a recession. USD investors are also likely to be preoccupied by USChina trade developments. Tensions between the two powers have thawed in recent weeks, stoking hopes an interim trade deal could be found following high level talks in October. Please get in touch if you want to know more about the latest news or how it could influence your currency transfers. Since 1996 we have helped more than 250,000 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 on 00351 289 395739 or alternatively visit the website on www.currenciesdirect. com/portugal and register to get regular updates on the currency markets, (please mention Simply Algarve magazine as how you heard about us). T: 289 395 739 E: algarve@currenciesdirect.com W: currenciesdirect.com/portugal
October 2019
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Finance
In response to your questions... Each month, Ricardo Chaves of All Finance Matters gives an insight into the legalities governing tax and general financial matters We sold our main residence in Portugal and would like to reinvest in Norway, which would become our permanent home. Does this satisfy the Portuguese tax people as Norway is not a member of the EU? Rest assured that Norway is eligible for the reinvestment. The list includes all the 28 EU countries, plus Norway and Iceland. You must make sure that you change the address at the Tax Office into the Norwegian domicile, within 60 days after the purchase of the new property. To do this you need to obtain a proof of address, which can be a utility bill or bank statement, providing it has your name and your new address on it. . While we do not have a home in Portugal currently, can we avoid IMI tax for the property we are purchasing? I have a Certificate of Residence and an American Passport, and my meeting with the Emigration Office (SEF) is scheduled for November. You can only apply for the IMI exemption, if the property is your main residency. For this to happen, you will have to change your address at the Tax Office to the address of the property. However, you can only do this once you have the residency certificate, as the tax authorities will only change your tax residency from a foreign country to a local address, with that certificate. Please note that the criteria for the IMI exemption is: annual taxable income of the household may not exceed ¤153,300 and the property cannot have a tax value greater than ¤125,000. Can you explain the tax implications of selling crypto currencies in Portugal? What is the tax rate I will pay on my gain? Bitcoins/Crypto currencies are not taxed in Portugal for the following reasons: > The law specifies what comes under tax jurisdiction in regards to capital gains generated and crypto-coins are not within that specification. > The tax authorities state that: “The valuation of CryptoCoins does not rely on any underlying asset, since their value is determined by supply and demand.” As CryptoCoins are not considered a derivative financial product, it concludes that “this is not a taxable reality under category G (capital gains)”. > Regarding capital income (Category E), if the income produced is obtained by the sale of the right, and therefore can not be taxed in Category E “. > As far as category B (self employment or sole trader) is concerned, it all depends on whether the purchase and sale of virtual currency is a habitual activity of the taxpayer. If it is, the tax payment is due, but if it is not then then exemption once again applies. It should be noted that under category B (which prevails
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over G and E in the case of competition), income earned on the basis of the exercise of an activity, and not on the origin of the income obtained, is taxable. However, this would only prevail if you were a broker or similar: buying and selling crypto-currency is not an indication of business activity. I want to ask you about the seemingly very excessive charges imposed by the local water company, due to the fact that I am an AL license holder. The increase that I have witnessed in the past 12 months is, quite frankly, astonishing as I’m now paying a lot more than before. I wondered if you have had other property owners who rent out making similar comments? The Municipal Water Company receives the information from the tourism office every time there is a rental license application. With this information, they automatically change the water tariff from domestic, to commercial. They assume that because the property is being rented under a commercial activity, the tariff should be different. This is not the case everywhere, but there are more municipalities going in the same direction. We are not able to discuss the legality of this matter; however, in Tavira, Lisbon and a few other places, home owners have seen their water tariffs increase, when they apply for a Rental License (AL). My application to become Non Habitual Residentwas denied because the tax office says I have been resident in Portugal. I never filled a tax return here, the only thing I paid was my Council Tax. Is this correct? If the address registered at the Tax Office is a Portuguese one – your property for instance – then the tax authorities consider you resident. If you are non-resident, you should either appoint a fiscal representative in Portugal or give the Tax Office the address in your home country. If your address was in Portugal, but you never submitted a tax declaration here, we can contest and revert the decision made by the Tax Office concerning your Non Habitual Residency request. You will need to show a tax residency certificate, issued by the tax authorities in your country and this needs to be officially translated to Portuguese and submitted to the relevant tax department in Lisbon that deals with all NHR applications. Contact us to find out how this can be done. If you have any other questions, please feel free to contact us; we aim our expertise and know-how to work to your benefit, keeping you tax compliant while paying only the legal minimum. Contact our office and book an appointment to find out about the tax strategy that might be more effective in your specific situation. ricardo@allfinance.pt
October 2019
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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
FLAVIO HORTA
URBAN ARTISTS
ArtCatto at the Conrad On now Dain, considered by high-profile collectors as one of the most influential urban artists to emerge out of New York today; Ben Allen who works with a range of materials including acrylic, household paints, spray paints, and screen printing; stunning land and water-scapes by Cristina Bergoglio; and works by Swedish artist Ralf Artz who sits in the borderland between painting and photography.
Tavira d’artes On now This young artist from Beja has the amazing talent of painting like the old masters but adding his modern touches; the shepherds have tattoos and the farmers piercings. Always something to lead your eye. An amazing collection. 962 012 111
REMINISCENSE BY LESLEY GOLDIE
RalfArzt
Cristina Bergoglio
Flavio Horta
Galeria de Arte Pitor Samora Barros Largo Engenheiro Duarte Pacheco Albufeira Opens 2 November Make a diary date now to join this talented artist for drinks and nibbles from 2pm to 5pm to celebrate the opening of her one-man show. The Gallery is open 9.3012.30 and 1.30-17.30; closed Sindays and holidays.
ADDING PERSONALITY
BenAllen
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Galleria Corte Real On now Always in search of something different, Corte Real Gallery in Paderne has selected the most beautiful handmade papier-
October 2019
Lesley Goldie
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mâché pots from Serra Leoa, discovered at Mason Objet… Europe’s biggest and most prestigious home design fair.
MUST DO’S FUNDRAISING FINE ART AUCTION IN AID OF THE BOMBEIROS
Lady in Red Gallery de Arte Edificio Adega de Lagoa Sunday 20 October Doors open 1.30pm; bidding starts at 2.15pm In conjunction with Alerta, the Forest Fire Alert Association the Lagoa gallery will be serving wine and canapés and auctioning some 46 lots donated by various artists, in order the raise monies for the Bombeiros across the Algarve and lower Alentejo who risk their lives saving people, animals and property from the devastaton of forest fires.You can bid online in advance of the auction (alertafineartcatalogue2019. yolasite.com). Entry donation is ¤15. Numbers are limited so we advise you to book now. 917 467 874
Corte Real Gallery
PEDRO ÁGUAS
Lady in Red Gallery de Arte Edificio Adega de Lagoa On now Born and raised in Olhão and with an academic background in Visual Arts, Águas’s artistic line seeks freedom from the demands of logic and reason, expressing the world of the unconscious and dreams, where anything is possible.
Pedro Águas
PHOTOGRAPHIC EXHIBITION
CONVERSATION CLUB
Museu do Traje Sao Bras On till 27 November At The Beach is the theme for the latest Algarve Photographers’ Group show. The works range from the traditional footprints-in-the-sand charm to some real surprises.
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Coreto Hostel, Loulé Every Wednesday till 11 December Learn to fala Portuguese. Conversation groups in a relaxed atmosphere will get you past the bom dia and obrigado stage. There are two levels, which means you can be with others at a similar stage of learning. For information and to register, call 966 929 240 or email atelierpalavrascertas@gmail.com
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Agenda WINE CONNECTION TASTING EXPERIENCE
AUTUMN MEDITERRANEAN GARDEN FAIR
FISSUL exhibition centre, Silves 26 October 10am to 6m; 27 October 10am to 4pm At this annual event, now two days, there will be an extensive display of ornamental orchid species suitable for your Algarve garden and shady terraces, rare and unusual plants from arid and tropical zones, a display garden and fruit trees and herbs as well as a wonderful range of succulents. A programme of free talks, workshops and demonstrations are part of the attraction.
OKTOBERFEST
Vila Vita Biergarten Porches Till 6 October, 1pm to midnight Based on the Munich speciality, the resort offers a jolly event with a real party spirit and yes, lots and lots of beer – every day, between 3pm and 6pm it’s Happy Hour with three beers for the price of two. Live music starts at 7pm and on the weekends a band from Bavaria will play.
Vale do Lobo Auditoriam 4 and 5 October, 4pm-10pm Catering both for connoisseurs and those who want to discover a little more about world of wines, this first-edition event brings together a carefully-curated selection of wine producers and oenologists from leading Portuguese vineyards and estates, along with a handful of chosen international exhibitors, and exquisite Portuguese food plus entertainment and live music. Tickets can be purchased online at valedolobo.com/en/ events/wine-connectiontasting-experience/ or from the resort’s reception desk.
MARKETS FARMERS’ MARKET
Quinta Shopping Sunday 6 October, 10am-1pm Luscious local fruits and veggies alongside local artisan food products including oils, dried figs and nuts. Take a big shopping bag, have a coffee and pasteis de nata and watch out for the visiting folk dancers.
ESTOI MARKET
Sunday 6 October This big monthly gypsy market, along with the T-shirts and designer-look-alike handbags and watches, has a good number of plant and herb stands, and locally-grown fruit and veg, sausages and cheeses, bread and homemade biscuits. The sit-down snackeries do serve up some pretty good chicken piri piri, too. Follow the cars and park, if you can, in the big lot next to the cemetery. A walk round the corner to Estoi Palace, now a Pousada, is well worth the time. Amazing original architecture and tile work.
BLIP EXPO 2019
Portimao Area 12 October 10am-6pm 13 October 10am-4pm Organised by AFPOP, BLiP stands for ‘Better Living in Portugal’, and it is one of the largest trade shows for foreigners residing in Portugal. Exhibitors are diverse, covering a wide range of sectors including Health, Financial Services, Insurance, Technology, Home Solutions, Gastronomy, It is worth the journey west to get a good idea of what’s on offer. Free entry.
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MONCARAPACHO MARKET
Sunday 13 October Another goodie on the regular calendar, and spread out (wear comfortable shoes) over a big area. The pottery, Olaria Moncarapachense is worth a visit before you get into the main market and you’ll always find unusual hand-made items alongside the usual pots and painted plates. At one end of the market area there is a good selection of saplings
Proprietors Club Members can make themselves popular by inviting guests to play in the Guest Days for a ¤50 green fee. Find out more at valedolobo.com
SONG AND DANCE AL MOURARIA INVITES TERESA TAPADAS
Vale do Lobo Auditoriam Saturday 26 October from 7.30pm An intimate concert by the Al-Mouraria group – which includes Portuguese guitar, classical guitar, double bass and accordion – and invited Fado star Teresa Tapadas who is acknowledged as one of the best of the modern Fado singers. Tickets are ¤20 and are available from the Resort Reception now. For information and tickets call 289 353 322, email events@vdl.pt or visit valedolobo.com and healthy shrubs; elsewhere there’s the usual clothing and household plastics. And don’t forget Loulé’s Saturday market, opposite the convent. And mid-week there’s the Wednesday gypsy market in Quarteira, 8am-2pm. Chicken piri piri at Marufo down the road is worth the walk
SPORTS
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THE PORTUGAL MASTERS Dom Pedro Victoria Golf Course 24-27 October This tournament features the best golfers in the world. Every year, spectators flock to Vilamoura to attend this important competition, on the the challenging Arnold Palmerdesigned course. For tickets visit tickets.europeantour.com
VALE DO LOBO GUEST DAY
26 October Vale do Lobo Golf Club Members and Vale do Lobo
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Agenda in a show that masterfully fuses traditional folklore with contemporary dance, flamenco and tango. Tickets are ¤12; call 289 414 604 for information.
KIDS STUFF HALLOWEEN – ARGH
THE AUTUMN TRIO
AMIGOS DE MÚSICA Os Agostos, near Santa Barbara da Nexe Tuesday 15 October and Thursday 17 October, 7pm Agata Daraskaite, violin; Mikhail Shumov, cello; and Joana Vieira Shumova, piano will give two concerts at Os Agostos this month. The first will feature music by Glière, Debussy, Rachmaninov and Dvorak; the second pieces by Glière, Debussy, Schumann and Brahms. Doors open at 6.00pm and wine, fruit juices and canapés will be served. There will also be a short interval with refreshments. Entry donation is ¤25 per person for guests and non-members. Email reservasconcertos@gmail.com to book. The Amigos De Música is an international group of around 90 members who stage musical activities by internationally-renowned musicians and also sponsor young Portuguese musicians. It is a non-profit organization and celebrated its 28th anniversary last year.
ARGENTINE SENTIMENTS
Cineteatro, Loule 13 October, 6.30pm This one-hour spectacular is the result of the union between two prestigious Argentinean dance companies, Estilo y Pasión and Renovando Sueños, which will transport you to the Argentine pampas and the streets of Buenos Aires
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Vale do Lobo Daily, 19 October to 3 November, 3pm-6pm Time to embrace all that is spooky and creepy with a week of special Halloween fun and games in the Praça. Carnival cheer, especially for the little ones, with bouncy castles, ghostly face painting, balloon modelling and plenty of other treats all under the watchful eye of skilled child minders.
MORE GRISLY GHOSTLY STUFF
Quinta Shopping 31 October Ghouls and goblins and lots of fun things for the kids to do while you sit back with a coffee and looked frightened at the appropriate time.
HALF-TERM JUNIOR GOLF ACADEMY
Val do Lobo Golf Club 21-25 October, 2pm-4pm With expert tuition and small group sizes (max ten per class), there is no better way for children to learn the art, and the fun, of golf. This is a perfect opportunity for youngsters who have already had some golfing experience but now want to progress to a new level and to perhaps challenge their parents by the end of the week! ¤100 per child for the five days. Preregistration is required. For further information call 289 353 464, email golf@vdl.pt or visit valedolobo.com/ en/events/autumn2019-half-term-juniorgolf-academy/
October 2019
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October 2019
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Golf
THE REAL STARTING POINT
Richard Hudson and Eddie Charnock, Algarve Golf Guru, PGA Professionals discuss your takeaway
F
ollowing on from a previous article of ours in Simply Algarve, that carried the message: ‘To be the BEST YOU on the fairways make sure you appreciate the fundamentals of golf,’ we are going to discuss now the start of your golf swing... the takeaway. If you can start each swing along the right path, keeping the club in a good position early on, there’s a much greater chance that the rest of your backswing will follow that good path – and that in turn will promote a good downswing and a solid, straight strike on the golf ball, whch is exactly what you want. A number of common takeaway faults are evident in many golfers who, as a result, spend the rest of their swing working hard to adjust in order to make a decent contact with the ball. Not great if you want to become a more solid and consistent ball striker. Rather than go through each common fault, let’s stick to what a good golf swing takeaway looks and feels like... There are three very useful, very objective checkpoints that you can use to make sure your swing begins on the best possible path. They are these:
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1
Start the takeaway by allowing your left shoulder to turn towards your chin (for the right-handed golfer). Keep the left arm straight and the hands passive (no wrist hinge or rotation at this stage) until the club reaches hip height, keeping the club in front of you for as long as possible.
2
As the club reaches a horizontal position, check that the butt end of the club points at your target. If you have access to a mirror use the down the line view to check that the club is in this position.
3
The club head should cover the view of your hands. Looking down the line, the blade of the club should run parallel to your spine angle (see the photo above). Want to improve your game and up the quality of your swing? Contact Richard or Eddie to discuss coaching opportunities that will make a real difference. E: sales@algarvegolfguru.com W: algarvegolfguru.com And do mention Simply Algarve as a point of referral.
October 2019
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SPORTS NEWS
Brought to you by Chris Wright
HEARTBREAK FOR PORTIMONENSE After a bright start to their Primeira Liga campaign, SC Portimonense hit the buffers with consecutive defeats by Sporting, Moreirense, and FC Porto followed by a goal-less draw at V.Setúbal. Porto’s visit to the Algarve saw them lead 2-0 at half-time thanks to goals from Alex Telles and Zé Luís. The home side hit back with goals from Dener (74’) and Anzai (77’) but despite being reduced to ten-men – Telles was sent-off two minutes into stoppage time – the Dragons contrived to snatch all three points via Iván Marcano’s 98th-minute header. Portimonense are at home in the League Cup against Rio Ave on the weekend of 4-5 October before a difficult trip to Benfica at the end of the month.
October at the Clube Desportivo De Odiaxere, EM 534, Odiaxere, Lagos. Great facilities, entertainment across the two days and 16 teams from the UK, France, Spain and the Algarve competing in 50+ and 60+ age groups. Browns Sports & Leisure Club are hosting their autumn Algarve Walking Football Cup at their superb facilities in Vilamoura on the 4-5 October. walkingfootballalgarve.com
IMPOSSIBLE RUN, LAGOS Sunday 13 October will witness the fifth IMPOSSIBLE RUN. This steeplechase covers a distance of about 10kms with more than 30 natural and artificial obstacles. The challenge is for competitors to test their physical abilities in a rural landscape over a multifaceted terrain. The event will pass through the Municipal Stadium, Lagos Sport complex, the Fatacil Showground in Lagoa, Ribeira de Bensafrim e Paul de Lagos plus surrounding areas. The Impossible Kids Run, over a 1000m course, will take place in the Municipal Stadium and will offer different artificial and natural obstacles prepared specifically for children between 8 and 13 years of age. Parental authorisation is required. For more information: impossiblerun. pt
ALBUFEIRA CITY RALLY The Southern Rally Championship is back on the road with the sixth race, Albufeira City Rally, on 12-13 October. The Rally will bring excitement to the city centre with a Super Night Special in the Avenida dos Descobrimentos, then heading for three more special classification tests in Guia, Ferreiras and Paderne the next day. The Super Night Special, starts at 9pm on the Saturday between the intersection of the Bombeiros de Albufeira and the Rotunda dos Relogios a distance of 2.38kms in the middle of Avenida dos Descobrimentos. The following day, more tests take place between the Algoz road and the Tunis road (Guia) at 10am/11.40am/1.40pm; in Canais (Ferreiras) 10.15 am/12noon/2pm and Alcaria (Paderne) 10:35am/ 12:20pm/2:20pm. The presentation of awards will take place in front of the Albufeira Town Hall at 4pm.
WALKING FOOTBALL Lagos Strollers are staging their first International Tournament on 14-15
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SWIMMING CHAMPIONSHIPS It has recently been announced that the 11th Annual Down Syndrome Swimming World Championship – DSISO – will be held at the Albufeira Municipal Swimming Pools in 2022. The event, which was held in Albufeira in 2008, will be attended by over 300 swimmers representing 25 countries.
October 2019
FAMALICÃO WHO? On the weekend of 30 November- 1 December, SC Portimonense will entertain FC Famalicão in the Primeira Liga at the Portimão Municipal Stadium. Who is this team that won four and drawn one of their first five games? Just ten years ago they had dropped into the fifth-tier of Portuguese football playing in local competitions but returned to the Segunda Liga five years ago and in May secured promotion to the top flight. But while the drastic overhaul was designed to ensure Famalicão were competitive in the Primeira Liga, the calibre of some of those brought in raised a few eyebrows. And that is because of not only the riches of Ofer, who also has a 32 per cent stake in Atletico Madrid, but the influence of super agent Jorge Mendes and his Gestifute agency. Portugal under-21 winger Diogo Goncalves and attacking midfielder Guga, summer arrivals from Benfica, are both Mendes clients. Pedro Goncalves and Roderick Miranda have come in from Wolverhampton Wanderers, another club Mendes has close ties to. 19-year-old defensive midfielder Gustavo Assunção, who has joined from Atletico Madrid, the Spanish club Mendes’ most exciting prodigy, João Felix, joined for ¤115m over the summer. Two acquisitions came in from England. The Portuguese winger Ruben Lameiras, a former Spurs youth player before spells at Coventry City and Plymouth Argyle and Josh Tymon, the England under-20 international left-back, has joined onloan from Championship club Stoke City. Whether a small town club that averages crowds of 4,960 can really smash the glass ceiling and finish above the mighty Porto, Benfica and Sporting remains to be seen.
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Last word
EXPAT talk...
W
Anthony Martin has a problem. It’s a blockage. Not a bodily-function one, but a thinking process standstill that has rendered him incapable of flowing prose. Oh well... may be next time
e have learnt a new word, prorogue. I say we, not as in the ‘royal we’ meaning me, but as in all of us, because – and you can’t pretend you didn’t – reach for a keyboard as did I, and Google the meaning of the word. It’s a good word – even a great word, it’s a word we would all like to drop into an ordinary conversation when we want to give the appearance of being all Rees-Mogg’ish but no longer own a double-breasted chalk-striped suit. It is just unfortunate that we can’t use it, as it only has the one meaning. And I do not have and would hazard a guess that neither do you have, the right to pause the Parliament of that green and pleasant land we used to call home or indeed any other Parliament. And… and… and... well nothing I suppose; here’s not a lot I can add to that. This is a commentary that starts and immediately vanishes up its own backside. It is not just a beginning but also a middle and an end. It’s a non-piece that’s not going anywhere. I have proverbially painted myself into a corner, but I think it is a great start to what might have been a bit of fun. And now I have the dreaded writer’s block. The above was written ten days ago and, as hard as I try, I cannot think of any way to continue this thread. There are times, usually at 4am, when a flash of inspiration wakes me but by the time I have gone downstairs and booted up the computer – it’s gone and, yet again, I stare at a blank screen and wonder how I am going to get 900 words that actually say something - say anything. Looking for inspiration I read all the newspapers, but they are still banging on about Brexit, Boris and Cameron’s memoirs and after three years of it I’ve had enough. The Daily Mail ran a piece about a French Court case involving a man who, when away on a business trip, died whilst having sex with a stranger and the Court ruled that it was an industrial accident and that having sex was as normal as “taking a shower or having a meal” and that his family were entitled to compensation. That certainlhad promise but I wrote about something similar a couple of months ago. And last week I took a pair of towelling slippers from a hotel in Seville which were much smaller than the ones I took from a hotel in Italy but trying to write a piece on the comparative foot sizes of Spaniards and Italians is not going to cut it, so I’m going for a swim to clear my head. Is it just me? It is well known that those who write do occasionally get stuck for ideas, but did Wordsworth actually have this problem? Did he say: “Oi Dorothy, I’m stuck for a poem that
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I must hand in today so stop mucking about with those daffodils and come for a walk over the vales and hills”. Or did Dickens suffer with the occasioal double blank? When he came up with that great opening line It was the best of times; it was the worst of times did he then think, “bloody hell, where do I go from here?” I doubt it. Dostoyevsky wrote The Gambler in 26 days; The Boy in Striped Pyjamas took John Boyne a measly two and a half days. And here I am, after three weeks and a number of sleepless night, 250 words short, with this issue set to go to press and I’m on my third coffee in one hour and have bitten two nails.
Did Dickens suffer with the occasional double blank and think “bloody hell, where do I go from here?” Somehow I doubt it!
Would this work? I’m now wondering if I could get away with the Jeffrey Bernard ploy. Jeffrey, who was a seriously good columnist for the Spectator magazine and also a seriously good drinker at the Coach and Horses pub in London’s Greek Strreet, was often so completely legless that he could not produce his copy in time: the magazine kept his page but printed the banner Jeffrey Bernard is Unwell. But then I’m no Jeffrey Bernard. There is also the possibility of using the opposite to the adage ‘never use two words where one would suffice’ and in the world of newspapers where columnists are paid per word, the impulse to do the reverse must be overpowering. For instance, I could have said: ‘the temptation to utilise more than the necessary number of words to illustrate a situation would be beneficial to me personally’ – using 19 words instead of nine. But I don’t think I could get away with that white space filler either. Whoops, just checked the time and I now seriously need to get my finger out as the first round of Strictly Come Dancing starts in two hours and I don’t want to miss my autumn glitter-fix, let alone the lovely Oti Mabuse. Perhaps she’ll inspire me – she certainly puts ideas into my head. But with time running out I may have to keep those thoughts for the next issue.
October 2019
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