A COMMUNITY MAGAZINE FOR THE ALGARVE
4000 PRINTED COPIES
EDITORIAL
Sophie Sadler sophie@tomorrowalgarve.com +351 912 176 588
SALES
Tom Henshaw tom@tomorrowalgarve.com +351 919 918 733
DESIGN
Phil Harding phil@tomorrowalgarve.com +351 916 606 226
FOLLOW
TomorrowAlgarve
@TomorrowAlgarve
www.tomorrowalgarve.com
Bibiana Maria da Silva de Jesus Gonçalves at her stall in the Mercado Municipal da Avenida, Lagos © Ness Vie
Dear readers,
Welcome to 2025.
As we welcome the new year, I always like to amuse myself by reading up on the trends that are set to evolve in the new year.
One of the biggest trends that we can expect to see in 2025 is the continued integration of technology into our daily lives. I was interested and alarmed in equal measure to read a report from Gartner that by 2030: “30% of knowledge workers will be enhanced by technologies such as bidirectional brain-machine interfaces (BBMIs)”. Our friend Elon Musk is, of course, at the forefront of this field, developing implants that allow individuals to control devices with their thoughts. I am imagining this will take a while to reach the Algarve, so let’s not panic just yet!
The fashion world is predicting the return of the leopard print and moho boho chic, whatever that is! But I was interested in reading that the Pinterest Predicts trend report is anticipating a fashion trend that will suit us very well here in the Algarve – ‘the fisherman aesthetic’! “Utilitarian garb and fair isle flair take on a touch of camp with nautical kitsch.” Think fisherman sandals and boat shoes with warm, woolly socks. Timeless fisherman jackets, cable knits, traditional fishermen’s sweaters, and the Breton stripe. Now we all must have some of these in our wardrobes, or we can buy them in our local Algarvian products store!
Employer wellbeing is going to be a big theme in 2025, according to Forbes: “Trends like ‘Bare Minimum Monday’ and ‘Quiet Quitting’ speak volumes about where employees are at these days, with many concerned about mental health issues.” For those
like me who are not familiar with these terms, ‘Quiet Quitting’ is a term that went viral on TikTok in 2022. It describes employees who do the minimum required of their job but put in no additional effort, time or initiative. While ‘Minimum Monday’ states the obvious, it also promotes an initiative to take care of yourself and prioritise self-care. It seems that the world is just catching up with the Portuguese, they have had the word ‘amanhã since the beginning of time!
We can expect to see a greater emphasis on wellness in 2025. With the stresses of modern life continuing to take their toll on our mental and physical health, many people are turning to practices like yoga, meditation and mindfulness to help them stay centred and balanced and we know the Algarve is becoming a mecca for such wellbeing activities.
Another trend that we can expect to see in 2025 is a growing focus on sustainability. As awareness of environmental issues continues to grow, more and more people are looking for ways to live more sustainably. From recycling and reducing waste, to using renewable energy sources and driving electric vehicles, sustainability will be a key focus for many in our community, and we will continue to focus on water saving here in the Algarve.
So you might want to take note of the new trends for 2025 or just reflect that the reason many of us live in or visit the western Algarve is because it is beautifully free of fads, fashions and technology. You may prefer to get out in the beautiful landscape and forget about the outside world altogether! This edition includes an abundance of places to visit and ideas for ways to enjoy our trend-free paradise!
Have a fad-free January!
From Sophie, Tom, Phil and the Tomorrow team.
SEDE: R. SENHORA LORETO LOTE 6 RC D PARIO CONVENTO 8600-683 LAGOS PERIODICIDADE: MENSAL . TIRAGEN: 6,500 TIPOGRAFIA: C/ AL MEDITERRÁNEO, 29, POLÍGONO DE SAN RAFAEL, 04230, HUÉRCAL DE ALMERÍA CIF: B04250056 Whilst we take every care to ensure details are correct the publisher will take no responsibility for errors or omissions. Where prices or dates are quoted they are correct at the time of publication and are subject to change. Links to third party websites are by no way an endorsement of the linked material and the publisher takes no responsibility for the content or security of any third party website. Unless specifically stated Tomorrow magazine does not endorse any product or service appearing in the directory, classified, editorial or display advertising featured on the website. Observação: os números de telefone presentes nesta publicação podem estar sujeitos a cobranças: números que começam por 2 chamada para rede fixa nacional e números começados por 9 chamada para rede móvel nacional.
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Lagos’ municipal market celebrates its 100th anniversary in January.
This month, Lagos celebrates the centenary of the Avenida municipal market. The facility was constructed in the first quarter of the 20th century (1923/1924), however the official inauguration took place the following year, on 15 January 1925. A plaque will be unveiled to commemorate the centenary.
Two researchers, Artur de Jesus and Francisco Castelo, consulted historical records to write a commemorative book Mercado Municipal da Avenida (1924) – Um Mercado Centenário, to mark the occasion.
Formerly Praça da Fruta, the Avenida municipal market is divided into three floors. Fish and meat stalls occupy the ground floor, while the second floor has a café, shops, and stalls selling fruit, vegetables and other regional products. On the third floor, there is a restaurant and a terrace overlooking the promenade and the bay of Lagos. There is pedestrian access to the Science Museum (Centro Ciência Viva de Lagos) from the back of the market.
The first market in Lagos was built by the local câmara (council) in 1850, close to the Paços do Concelho building. It served as a fish market until 1904, when another building was built nearby (to the north) for this purpose, and the original one became a temporary fruit and vegetable market.
In August 1923, Lagos council decided to buy land next to this building as well as an adjacent property which, since 1885, had housed a fish canning factory owned by the French firm J. Labrouche. The following year, preparations were made to open the new fruit market, including designing new gates and tiling the building’s façade, as well as creating a new entrance at the Porta de Portugal. The market was recognised as being of great importance to Lagos. The technical director of the works was Jaime José.
wrote a foreword to the book:
“There are places in a city that are meeting and living spaces par excellence. The market is one of these places, where people get to know each other and intersperse the hustle and bustle of shopping with a chat, be it with the vendors, the neighbourhood or people they meet by chance.
“If the walls could talk, those of the Lagos Municipal Market would tell us many stories. Stories of the times when the city overlooked the sea, of the times when life was hard and painful for most of the population, when we ate what the land produced locally each season and the sea let us catch., Stories of the times when communication and transport routes were scarce and rudimentary, when almost all people knew each other and visitors were occasional. A lot separates us from those times, but the municipal market is still there, renovated, adapted to new tastes and demands, welcoming those who dedicate their lives to the fresh food trade and receiving customers who, despite the current proliferation of commercial spaces and diversification of the offer, still seek out the oldest market in Lagos in operation.”
With thanks to Câmara Municipal de Lagos for allowing us to source information from this commemorative book.
26
1st
*Based on a 12 month property management contract
Email: sales@algarveaccommodation.co.uk
Tel: (+351) 968 038 570 www.algarveaccommodation.co.uk
Located at the Marina de Lagos with free parking, enjoy freshly prepared food, daily specials, fresh sh, and options for vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free diets.
Quiz Nights
14th & 28th January, 7pm €16.50 per person
Entry to the quiz and homecooked meal. Booking essential
Dinner Deal - €60
3 courses for 2 people & bottle of house wine. Saturday 18th January, from 6pm. Booking essential
Burns Night - 25th January, 3 course dinner
McSweens Haggis being piped in & toasted with a wee dram. €45 per person. €20 deposit required. Booking essential
Super Bowls - €10 homemade dishes. Weekly special served from 12 noon daily.
Pie and Pud Night
Thursdays from 12pm €16.50 including dessert
Happy Hour
Monday to Saturday 3-5.30pm €2.50 pints & glasses of wine
Don’t forget! Sunday
5
With the redevelopment of the former canning factory – which had ceased operating after a fire around 1915 – the 1850 market was demolished. The fish market, built in 1904 and overlooking the river, remained until it was demolished in 1958 to build the Avenida dos Descobrimentos. After that, the market in Rua Porta de Portugal was also used to sell fish.
Between 2003 and 2004, the building was remodelled to make it more user-friendly. The original features were retained while the rear wall was extended by five metres. The construction of this additional space was complicated by the presence of the Casa Fogaça, now the Living Science Centre, at a higher level – it was crucial not to destabilise that building during the remodelling of the market. Several safety, hygiene and quality problems were resolved at the same time.
Article 1.0: The New Municipal Market in this city is intended for the sale of fruit, vegetables, olives, poultry, game, meat, sweets, flowers, green and dried vegetables, crockery, eggs, cheese and any other foodstuffs or objects that the City Council deems appropriate to be sold there.
Organised as part of the Avenida Market Centenary and the 452nd anniversary of the elevation of Lagos to a city (1573–2025).
Guitarradas, with Vítor do Carmo, Nuno Martins and António Correia
A hundred years after its conception, the Avenida Municipal Market is not only a place to buy and sell food but is also a place where Lagos residents meet and socialise. From time to time, it hosts cultural and recreational events which contribute to the liveliness of the historic centre. This makes it an excellent place for tourists to enjoy the Algarve way of life. To mark this important milestone in the market’s life, some events will take place in January, such as a cooking show, a guitar show and a guided tour.
www.cm-lagos.pt
1. Facade of the Municipal Market in 2024 - Francisco Castelo / Lagos Municipal Photo Library
2. Fish Market (until 1904) and the Town Hall building. Unknown author/ reproduced in PAULA R., Lagos - Urban Evolution and Heritage, Municipal Council of Lagos, 1992
3. Fish and Vegetable Markets (between 1904 and 1925). Malva & Roque/ reproduced in PAULA R., Lagos - Urban Evolution and Heritage, Municipal Council of Lagos, 1992
4. Municipal Market and Jardim dos Amuados, 1930s. XX. Artur SeguradoFashion Bazaar/Lagos Municipal Photo Library
5. Municipal Market, 1950s (before 1958). José Júlio Marreiros Dias Collection / Lagos Municipal Photo Library
6. Interior of the Municipal Market in 2024 – Francisco Castelo / Lagos Municipal Photo Library
16 January | 10.30 am
Venue: Avenida Market
Instrumental music session with Vítor do Carmo (Portuguese guitar), Nuno Martins
and António Correia (bass guitar). An initiative organised as part of the centenary of the Avenida Market and the 452nd anniversary of the elevation of Lagos to a city (1573–2025).
Showcooking of Algarvian flavours with Chef Diogo Pereira (Cascade Wellness Resort)
23 January | 10.30am
Venue: Avenida Market
Guided tour from Santo Amaro to Praça do Peixe. A journey through memories with Artur de Jesus.
25 January | 10am
Location: Santo Amaro Market (departure)
Participation is free upon registration using the online form
Tomorrow visited the Avenida market to hear the stories of the local traders. To help keep the market and its traditions and stories alive, consider going there to buy your fresh produce and meeting the men and women whose families have worked there for generations.
Originally from Odiáxere, Sr José tells us that the village just outside Lagos used to be called Vietnam by the residents because it was considered to be the ‘Wild West’! The people who lived there were given that nickname to distinguish themselves from the Lacobrigenses.
His family worked in a tavern and grocery store in Rua de Barragem, which also served food. He remembers his mother would serve caldeirada de peixe (fish stew) to the regular customers, such as the street cleaners, farmers or the men who worked on the dam. They would also sell the local abafadinho, a sweet wine served in little glasses like a shot. He recalls how the store would display their produce, onions, garlic and oregano, which were hung outside on poles so people could see what they sold. They also sold tobacco, fruit, vegetables and oils for lamps, as many still didn't have electricity. He remembers that rabbits were hung up in the square to be eaten, along with live rabbits in cages.José's father also would farm salt from the Alvor lagoon near their home.
When he was five years old, the family moved to Lagos so that he could attend school. They lived near the army barracks, which in those days still housed 1,200 soldiers. His mother worked in the fish factory for a time (Fabrica do Sr Assunção). They began work in the early morning when the fishing boats arrived. He remembers that the ladies used to take the leftover small pieces of sardines and mackerel, and his mother would make a big soup and take it to the factory for lunch. His parents still continued to run the tavern, while his father took a stall in the Lagos market and Sr José still owns the old family home in Odiáxere.
Sr José has worked on the stall in the Avenida market for almost 40 years, working initially with his father before he took it over. They initially sold fruit and vegetables, but he has had to evolve. As he says, “No one comes to the market to buy fruit these days and there are
so many other markets selling fresh produce. So, I started adding spices from Morocco and Turkey, like saffron, cumin, turmeric and raw cinnamon. And the customers also embraced this change.”
He also sells Portuguese produce, such as alfarrobeira (carob) and piri piri, along with Portuguese preserves, like tinned sardines and high-quality sardine pâté. He also sells the traditional Algarvian teas Bela Luisa and Chá Principe, which he assures me are delicious.
Sr José also reflected on the change in the status of the alfarrobeira fruit. “In the past, it was only for horses and pigs. Now, it’s for the people. The gypsies and the older generation used to come here to sell it to traders, but the authorities now insist that it is bought from a certified grower.”
We are there on a cold December morning, and it is quiet. We ask him if this is normal. “The market only works with tourism in summer. The old people have left,” he tells me. “They used to bring their children and grandchildren, and now the new generation only wants to go to the supermarket.”
As a young man, Sr Vítor served in the Guerra Ultramar (Portuguese colonial wars). While he was with the army in Mozambique, he was contacted by a friend who had a butcher’s stall in the market. “He asked if I wanted to come and work with him at the end of the commission.” When he arrived home from Mozambique in January 1973, Vítor immediately took up the offer of work.
His new employer, Sr Mário Dias, already had enormous prestige in the city, and his father had the stall before him. “He said he would help me. He was an extraordinary person who gave me the chance to stay with him.”
Sr Vítor is proud that he has been self-employed for 50 years and that his son is working with him. “I like being here, I have many friends, and every customer is a friend.” But Sr Vítor is worried that the next generation does not want to take over. “There were six of us here; they’ve all gone.” Sr Vítor observes that the shop next door is unused and he wanted to take it over to prepare meat, but he needed to put a door between the two premises. His application was refused by the administration which frustrated him.
All his meats are fresh and Portuguese. Some come from the Algarve and some from the Alentejo. His customers are a mix of Portuguese and tourists. He lists all the nationalities he serves: “English, French, Dutch, Belgians, Spanish, Italians.” He is busiest in the summer months, July, August and September, but trade also picks up around Christmas, New Year and Easter.
Along with other market traders, Sr Dias is frustrated that strict parking restrictions outside the market are having a significant impact on their trade. “I’m absolutely certain, from my experience here at the balcão, that more than 90% of the people who frequent the market have already been fined, so they don’t come and there is no place for loading or unloading.”
Sra Bibiana has worked in the market for 38 years, and her stall is one of the oldest. Her family is French, and she was born there. However, when her mother got ill with bad lungs, the doctor told them to move to a warmer climate, so her parents moved to Portugal.
Bibiana was a hairdresser in France but left for Portugal to reunite with her parents. Here, she met her husband. She started selling fish in the market to help her father “without knowing what a fish was”. Her husband worked in the fish factory belonging to Sr Pimenta, which was subsequently closed, so he became unemployed. He also started working with them in the market before Bibiana eventually took over from her father.
Bibiana sells only local fish she buys at the fish market when the boats come in. She tells me that the Portuguese love horse mackerel (carapão) and sardines. She also sells a lot of fanecas (pout fish), which are delicious when rolled in flour and then fried. If anyone wishes to visit her stall in January, she says it is a good time to buy, as the fish are fatter. Ask her for sargo (bream), dourada (golden bream) and robalo (sea bass).
I ask her about the gastronomic evolution of the sardines. “Previously, the sardine was a poor man’s fish.
Not any more. Now it belongs to the rich!” She notes that sardines have increased in price a lot. But she puts this down to increased demand and less sardines. “There aren’t as many sardines or choco (cuttlefish) as there used to be. On our coast, we had choco all year round. This summer, we didn’t have any. I asked the fishermen why, and they said it was because of the dolphins. Why? They say the dolphins eat the little black choco eggs and they eat the sardines.”
But she sees that the demand in the market is decreasing, which she puts down to the fact that there is no parking. She is also cross that the gypsy market sellers on the main Avenida occupy all of the parking spaces, which she believes should be used for the public to do their shopping. She argues that there should be a period in the morning for free parking so people can pop in and buy from the market.
Although Bibiana is a pensioner at 68, she says she still works because she couldn’t live on her pension alone. Even after all these years, Bibiana enjoys her work. “I like it very much. I like going to the fish market and seeing the fish. Going to see the boats. What they catch, what they don’t catch. And I like serving people the freshest catch.”
She won Festival da Canção and went on to represent Portugal in the Grand Final of Eurovision, performing to a global audience of 150 million people. Eighteen months after our first interview, we caught up with our friend of Tomorrow, the marvellous Mimicat.
WORDS Vaughan Willmore
Eurovision opens the door to many opportunities but also brings its own baggage, with many acts subsequently finding it difficult to establish themselves as respected artists. When I spoke with Mimicat back in May 2023, I had little doubt that she was here to stay. She has proved me right with a new album to her name and a trailblazing visit to China behind her.
In 2023, Mimicat broke new ground by becoming the first artist to win Festival da Canção with a song that wasn’t composed by one of RTP’s invited songwriters, which was quite an achievement and testament to her talent as a songwriter. ‘Ai Coração’ (Oh Heart), a rip-roaring song she performed with fantastic verve, caught the public’s imagination. It was a win which earned her entry to the semi-finals of Eurovision and ultimately the Grand Final in London.
On returning to Portugal, Mimicat was in demand, with numerous radio and television appearances, including a headline grabbing performance on RTP’s prime time show, The Voice Kids. These opportunities gave the public a chance to connect with Mimicat as a person and they obviously liked
what they saw – a lively, intelligent personality, with an abundance of talent.
Mimicat followed the success of ‘Ai Coração’ with ‘Vais Ter Saudades’ (You’ll Miss Me). Both of these songs feature on her latest album Peito (Chest), released in September. Comprising 12 tracks, Peito is an impressive and mature album incorporating elements of soul, fado, popular music, swing and jazz. Mimicat wrote and composed all of the songs.
“Peito represents my journey,” said Mimicat. “It’s really a demonstration of versatility but above all of creativity and what it has been like for ten years, where I have been, where I came from and where I am going.” Mimicat presented the
album live at Teatro Maria Matos, in Lisbon. To see her in concert is a treat. She has a wonderful voice and a terrific stage presence which enables her to connect with audiences.
In addition to the new album and numerous live shows, Mimicat fronted RTP’s coverage of this
year’s Eurovision and took part in a government-sponsored excursion to China. The ‘Cultural Week of China and Portuguese-Speaking Countries’ celebrates cultural cooperation between respective nations. Mimicat performed twice and was praised by Observador and other media outlets as ‘the highlight of the cultural week’.
Mimicat is currently performing as the Genie in Aladdin on Ice at Alegro Alfragide, in Lisbon. It’s a role that called for her to adapt her lifelong roller skating skills to ice skating! “I can’t tell you how much I love doing this show,” said Mimicat. “It’s a super team with people I admire immensely, plus my kids love their mom as a Genie!” Aladdin on Ice runs until 12 January and mixes music, dance, theatre and skating, and promises to delight the whole family.
The year ahead promises to be equally as busy for Mimicat, perhaps even more so. She’ll be returning to the recording studio to start work on original songs and a new album, which will be out later this year or very early 2026. Mimicat has worked hard to achieve her success and as a songwriter and performer, she’s most definitely the ‘real deal’ and here to stay.
www.instagram.com/mimicat_music www.facebook.com/MimicatMusic
Mimi is a name we use in my family as a term of endearment for godmothers. I’ve always liked the name but as a stage name, it needed something else. When I added ‘cat’, it sounded right. And I like the word ‘cat’ – it reflects the sassy side of my personality. Today, away from the cameras, most people call me Mimi.
She’s a star of stage and screen and one of Portugal’s most popular actresses. Currently appearing in the stage play Dear Evan Hansen, Gabriela will soon return to our TV screens in the fifth season of Taskmaster before starting rehearsals for a reimagining of one of Shakespeare’s greatest plays.
WORDS Vaughan Willmore
Gabriela Barros has starred in many of Portugal’s most popular television programmes – Morangos Com Açúcar, Inspector Max and Taskmaster – and won a Golden Globe for her hilarious performances in the iconic Pôr do Sol (Sunset). She has a similarly impressive track record in the theatre and film, and has a dedicated social media following, whom she frequently entertains with funny insights into her life, work and family.
Gabriela came to national prominence when she featured in the eighth season of the popular youth telenovela Morangos com Açúcar (Strawberries with Sugar). She was 21 years of age and had honed her skills at the Lisbon-based Escola Superior de Teatro e Cinema and Evoé
Escola de Atores. The actress went on to star in more than twenty TV series and several films, including as the lead in the highly acclaimed O Som Que Desce na Terra (The Sound That Descends to Earth). In 2022, she was the lead protagonist in Vanda, the gripping true story of a mother who, after being a victim of marital and financial betrayal by her husband, is compelled to rob banks at gunpoint.
It was Vanda and Pôr do Sol which cemented Gabriela’s reputation as a leading actress, ably showcasing her ability to undertake both dramatic and comedic roles. Looking back on the runaway success of Pôr do Sol, Gabriela told me, “It’s probably my favourite work, but we had no idea it would be so big.” Over two seasons and thirty-six episodes, Gabriela is the standout star of the show, playing three different roles and displaying exquisite comedic timing throughout. It won her a Golden Globe in 2022 for Best Actress.
Gabriela went on to star in the film adaptation, Pôr do Sol: O Mistério do Colar de São Cajó (The Mystery of the Necklace of São Cajó) and in the hard-hitting Sempre. For the last six years (over 100 episodes), she’s been a sketch show regular on the weekly RTP programme Cá Por Casa (Here at Home), hosted by the legendary comedian Herman José.
Over two seasons and thirtysix episodes, Gabriela is the standout star of Pôr do Sol, playing three different roles and displaying exquisite comedic timing throughout. It won her a Golden Globe in 2022 for Best Actress.
‘Love, passion, mystery, and betrayal make up the days at the Pôr do Sol estate.’ Pôr do Sol is a creative, irreverent and hilarious satire of TV soap operas that pokes good-natured fun at long-standing traditions. It has been broadcast by Netflix since 2022 and is also available (with English-language subtitles) on Prime.
Since September, Gabriela has been back on stage in an adaptation of the Broadway hit Dear Evan Hansen, which ranks as one of the most decorated stage shows of recent years.
Gabriela will soon be back on our TV screens in the fifth season of Taskmaster. The last time she was on the show, she emerged as the triumphant winner, so the pressure will be on this time!
Since September, Gabriela has been back on stage in an adaptation of the Broadway hit Dear Evan Hansen, which ranks as one of the most decorated stage shows of recent years. Telling the story of Evan, a high school senior with social anxiety disorder and his journey of self-discovery and acceptance following the suicide of a fellow classmate, it’s been described by one critic as ‘An excellent play, very well staged and represented’. Gabriela plays the mother of Evan in a role that allows her to showcase her dramatic range and wonderful singing voice. It runs until 2 February at O Teatro Maria Matos in Lisbon.
Gabriela will soon be back on our TV screens in the fifth season of Taskmaster. The last time she was on the show, she emerged as the triumphant winner, so the pressure will be on this time! “I love the show,” Gabriela said. “It’s really grown-ups playing like children, which is something I like a lot. It’s well hosted and terrific fun.”
In March, Gabriela joins the cast of the musical adaptation of A Midsummer Night’s Dream at Teatro da Trindade in Lisbon. Featuring wellknown Portuguese songs integrated into the story, it runs until 6 July and is another chance to see Gabriela in a musical. Indeed, music has been a constant theme throughout her life, with Gabriela once fronting the band Seda (Silk) and recently dueting with João Marques on the ballad ‘Amor Telenovela’ (Love Soap Opera).
In addition to being one of the most in-demand actresses working today, Gabriela is a loving mother to her young daughter, Laura, so understandably, she doesn’t get a great deal of leisure time. When she does, she enjoys the gym and visiting the Algarve, where her family has a property near Olhos de Água.
If you want to keep up to date with Gabriela’s work, then check out her Facebook and Instagram pages (see below). Gabriela, who speaks three languages – Portuguese, French and English – regularly posts updates about her work, family, and, even occasionally, her adorable dachshund named Olivia. You’ll soon get a sense of her self-effacing good humour and of an actress who, while taking her work seriously, does not take herself too seriously. For such a talented and acclaimed actress, that’s a wonderful outlook.
www.leonorbaboactores.com/actriz/gabriela-barros www.facebook.com/GabrielaBarrosoficial www.instagram.com/gabrielalrbarros
As the holiday season draws to a close, we find ourselves at the threshold of a new year. It’s a time of reflection, celebration, and, most importantly, hope. Here in the Algarve, the New Year brings not only a chance to look ahead but also an opportunity to embrace the traditions that make this season so special.
One such tradition in Portugal is the celebration of Epiphany, or Dia de Reis (Day of the Kings), on 6 January. This marks the culmination of the Christmas season and commemorates the arrival of the Wise Men, or Three Kings, who followed the star to Bethlehem to honour the newborn Jesus with gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh.
Portuguese homes and communities celebrate this day with great joy. You may notice the bolo ei (king cake) in local bakeries, a colourful, ring-shaped cake adorned with candied fruits that symbolise the jewels of a
crown. Inside the cake, there is often a hidden charm or bean, with the finder traditionally being crowned king or queen for the day – or tasked with buying the next cake!
The tradition of the Three Kings reminds us of the universal themes of generosity, humility and wonder. It invites us to reflect on the light that guided the Wise Men and how we might look for guiding lights in our own lives as we step into 2025.
What or who might be your guiding light in 2025?
Every New Year carries with it that sense of hope, and being in this wonderful place, with its stunning coastal beauty, reminds us daily of the gift of renewal.
Whether it’s a walk along the beach or sharing a meal with loved ones, this season encourages us to cherish these moments
and to look forward with optimism.
As we all navigate our unique journeys, let us embrace the hope that unites us. The New Year offers a clean slate – a chance to leave behind the challenges of the past and step into a future filled with promise.
So, whether you celebrate Epiphany with a slice of bolo rei or simply enjoy the slower pace of January, I wish you a year filled with light, peace and joy. May the guiding star of hope shine brightly for us all in 2025!
Happy New Year!
Fr Rob Kean is the Anglican Chaplain at Igreja Nossa Senhora da Luz
WORDS Tânia Soares
Vista Alegre attempts to replicate the treasures found in mothers’ and grandmothers’ glazed cabinets. These delicate items are only brought out on special occasions, cherished like treasures and silent witnesses to decades of family gatherings.
Whether at Christmas, Easter, or a special birthday, these porcelains transport us through time with their impeccable shine and an air of reverence. Anyone who has tried to set the table with these pieces knows that every movement is closely monitored, and any mistake is met with severe warning: “Careful’!
Since 1824, Vista Alegre has embodied porcelain and a bold vision for the future. Founded by José Ferreira Pinto Basto in Ílhavo, it was the first porcelain factory in Portugal, the result
of patience, experience and perfection. More than just objects, Vista Alegre created a way of life. From the art of moulding to the beauty of each brushstroke, everything was crafted with precision and sensitivity.
In celebration of its 200th anniversary, Vista Alegre did not merely look back. It reinvented itself, embracing collaborations with both Portuguese and international artists. Names such as Joana Vasconcelos, Siza Vieira and Christian Lacroix have left their mark, contributing to collections that blend contemporary design with tradition.
But Vista Alegre’s heritage goes beyond porcelain. In the 19th century, the factory was a true pioneering community, with housing, a theatre, a nursery and schools for its workers.
Over two centuries, the brand has faced challenges, from economic crises to rising disposable products, yet it has always maintained its essence. In today’s world of sustainability and appreciation for lasting quality products, Vista Alegre represents resilience and how the past can inform the future.
Each Vista Alegre piece holds a memory, whether of the hands that created it or the tables that have welcomed it. That may be why mothers and grandmothers keep them with such care. They are not just objects: they are fragments of shared moments, of stories told around the table, of a legacy of excellence that spans generations.
So, at your next special dinner, take a moment to view those plates and glasses from a different perspective. They are not just porcelain or crystal; they are works of art shaped by tradition and infused with the joy of owning a prestigious brand with a 200-year history.
Discover some iconic pieces from this brand at Mar d’Estórias.
mardestorias.com info@mardestorias.com
Rua Silva Lopes, Nº 30, 8600-623 Lagos
Glamorous guests arrived at the Tivoli in Lagos on 23 November for the Tomorrow Charity Ball. The money raised will go to our charity, TACT, which helps people in need in the Algarve.
After a welcome drink and a photo opportunity to show off their glad rags, party-goers were treated to a sumptuous sit-down feast courtesy of the fantastic Tivoli team. As they enjoyed their three course meal, magician Alex Darcy left everyone open-mouthed with his card tricks.
Then, the 5-ex cover band got the party started with their amazing performance of dance floor classics.
The combined money from the event and raffle raised an impressive €3500. The money was allocated to:
Riding for the disabled – who will be purchasing muchneeded equipment such as riding hats and safety equipment.
The Soup Kitchen (also known as the Mustard Seed) – the money was combined with funds from the John Aldridge Golf Day to help fund the annual Christmas dinner on 20 December, which fed around 200 people. Read more on the next page.
CASLAS – the money paid for 40 children to have a Christmas party at Oliva Pizzeria on 14 December.
For more than ten years, the Mustard Seed Association has been committed to helping families in need living in Lagos. This work has as its motto: justice, dignity and hope for the poor, regardless of race, language or nation. In other words, we help anyone, no questions asked, just those in need.
The charity is committed to providing immediate solutions to anyone who asks for help, especially with hunger. Before COVID, it ran a soup kitchen that opened three times a week, offering good hot food and a welcoming atmosphere, especially for the homeless. “We could really see the volunteers’ love for helping the poor in their eyes and in their work,” says the charity's president, Daniel, who also leads the work carried out by the ICC (International Christian Community Lagos).
After the pandemic, they were advised by some authorities to restrict crowds of people. To comply with this request, they changed the way they work, and now they give baskets of non-perishable food to an average of 200 people every last Friday of the month. This work is carried out mainly in partnership with the Anglican Church of Luz, which for many years has helped them with food parcels, and also financially, or with volunteer staff from the ICC International
Christian Community in Lagos. For those who are hungry, we immediately send the person in need to a local restaurant and offer them food to cover their needs momentarily, which is paid for by the association (especially for those who are homeless and have nowhere to cook).
The Mustard Seed Association is a legal association with its main headquarters at Travessa de Santo Amaro no. 5, Lagos. There, it also conducts all social work and ICC meetings. As well as helping people who are hungry, the association donates furniture, household appliances and clothes to those in need.
The highlight of the year is the annual Christmas Dinner, which attracts around 200 people. The best typical Portuguese Christmas food is served, including roast pork and turkey, at no charge. Various gifts are distributed to children and adults.
Thank you to all of the Lagos community and the following sponsors for your ongoing support.
www.facebook.com/themustardseed.charity
Thanks to the generosity of our local community, Algarve Families in Need were able to provide personalised boxes of food, essentials and gifts to over 120 families across the Algarve this December.
These boxes really make a huge difference to the most vulnerable in our community who would otherwise have gone without this Christmas. In delivering the boxes in the run-up to Christmas, the volunteers were often met with tears as the receivers expressed their disbelief and gratitude
to what seemed like many to be an unexpected Christmas miracle.
Algarve Families in Need would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to everyone who participated this year.
If you would like to be included in the initiative next year, please email RACalgarve@gmail.com to be added to their mailing list. To learn more about the charity or to support them at other times of the year, please refer to: www.algarvefin.com
WORDS James Plaskitt
This year marks the 40th anniversary of Portugal signing the Accession Treaty, paving the way for the country’s full EU membership. Over the four decades of membership, the Union has changed, both intensifying and enlarging. Throughout, Portugal has remained steadfast to the European vision, even though it has undergone profound changes in its relationship with the bloc.
Portugal’s political leaders opened discussions with the EU about future membership not long after the Revolution. There was a broad consensus amongst the political groups – except the Communists – that EU membership would help consolidate the country’s infant democracy and help it move away from its colonial legacy towards a continental European identity.
The EU was generally positive towards Portuguese membership, but the negotiations that led to its accession were long and tortuous. Portugal’s political structures were weak, its economy was substantially state-controlled and its military still carried substantial political influence. Before accession could occur, Portugal had to resolve these issues, as well as await the resolution of issues between the EU and Spain, whose bid to join was tied to Portugal’s.
Full membership began in 1986 and Portugal quickly felt the benefit of being a poor country joining a rich club! When membership began, Portugal’s GDP per head was just 58% of the EU average. As substantial funds began flowing into a reforming country, the economy began to strengthen. State enterprises were privatised. Financial markets were liberalised. Infrastructure development – notably motorways, airports and stadia – were rapidly constructed.
The EU’s political leaders hailed Portugal as a ‘good student’, as the reform obligations of the Union were keenly implemented. By 2000, GDP per capita had risen to 68% of the EU average. Public approval of EU membership in Portugal reached 80%.
While Portugal began to bask in a new prosperity, the EU’s attention turned eastward, embracing poorer eastern European states recently liberated from the Soviet grip. Integration took a further significant step with the creation of the euro currency zone. Portuguese governments strongly backed these initiatives. But, their impact took some toll on the country’s small economy. The flow of EU funds to Portugal slowed. Weaknesses in Portugal’s labour market
were exposed. Euro membership imposed tight new constraints on fiscal policy.
Portugal entered a recession. Government revenues tumbled and the budget deficit rocketed. The economy limped along until the 2008 global financial crisis finally tipped it towards the edge. By 2010, Portugal was being bailed out. Between them, the EU and the IMF pumped €78 billion into the country to help support the economy and stabilise government finances. State spending was cut, public salaries reduced and taxes increased. By 2014, the tough medicine had worked and the economy began to recover, with GDP per head reaching 78% of the EU average. Although the popularity of the Union had suffered, a majority of Portuguese voters still favoured continued membership.
Despite hardships, Portugal continued to champion major EU reforms, such as the establishment of the Schengen area and the substantial institutional and economic reforms enshrined in the 2007 Lisbon Treaty.
By the time the bailout period ended, Portugal was a long-established member of the Union and began playing a key role in building relations with the new, small accession states in the east, helping guide them through the reform process it had undergone itself in the 1970s and 1980s.
Portugal also helped the Union improve its relations with Latin American and African countries, drawing on its close ties with several former colonies. These links were important in securing several new trade agreements.
Financial subsidy from the centre now runs at a lower level. Portugal is receiving €16 billion between 2022 and 2026 from the Union’s Recovery and Resilience Fund, designed to support recovery from the Covid slump. A wide variety of projects in the Algarve are receiving EU funding, including smart energy projects, water conservation measures, sustainable fisheries and support for small business development.
The Union faces formidable challenges, including uncertainty over global trade and developments over the future of Ukraine, matters made more complicated by the return of Trump in the US.
To guide the Union through this problematic future, the 27 member states have turned to Portugal’s former prime minister, Antonio Costa, who has now been appointed President of the European Council.
After 40 years of EU membership, Portugal has moved from the periphery to the centre, and there has never been a referendum in sight.
James Plaskitt is a retired politician who served in the British Parliament from 1997 until 2010. He now lives in the Algarve.
Antónia Gertrudes Pusich, October 1805–October 1883, was a renowned Portuguese poet, playwright, journalist, and newspaper editor. She challenged the societal expectations placed upon women during her era and pioneered the new journalism crusade.
WORDS Dan Costinas
“Salve Estefânia! a fronte laureada, Embora tinta em sangue dos espinhos, (De lusos vates a divisa infausta...) Ante a virtude respeitosa inclino; E a homenagem Te off’reço de meus votos; De minhas affeições – puros incensos.
Hail Stephanie! Lady of the laurelled brow, Even so painted in the blood of thorns, (Of Portuguese bards the final token...) I reverently bow to virtue; And I vow to honour You; With all my affection – pure incense.”
Born on the island of São Nicolau, part of colonial Cape Verde, and daughter of the Croatian-born António Vicko Pusich and Portuguese Ana Maria Isabel Nunes, Antónia prevailed over Lisbon in the mid-19th century despite the overwhelming gender odds. She married three times, was widowed two times, and had eleven children. Antónia's life was not easy; she had to face multiple challenges every day.
Nonetheless, her character was not one to surrender to misfortunes. Refusing to accept the submissive destiny assigned to a woman of her social standing, she made the press her tribune, becoming the first woman to found, own and run newspapers in Portugal. She established and edited three influential publications: A Cruzada, A Beneficência and A Assembleia Literária, the latter being a platform for emerging Portuguese writers and thinkers. Antónia then served as a mediator in women’s education and empowerment disputes, and she participated in major national and international conferences.
In her elegant Romantic poetical works, Antónia Pusich displayed emotional richness, showing interest in themes like love, grief and the reality of humankind. These themes were exemplified beautifully in A Sua Magestade A Rainha de Portugal Dona Estephania Homenagem (Homage to Her Majesty Dona Stephanie, Queen of Portugal), from which I selected a few lines above. Queen Stephanie of Portugal passed away in Lisbon at the age of 22, after one year of marriage with King Pedro V.
Although Antónia’s plays are lesser-known, they reveal her storytelling skills and her capacity to create engaging
characters. The one-act comedy O Regedor da Paróquia (The Parish Regent) and the three-act drama Constança ou o Amor Maternal (Constance of the Maternal Love) are her two most renowned stage plays, performed when the theatres proved to be very popular at the turn of the century. Dona Antónia mastered several foreign languages perfectly (especially French, English and Italian) and acquired an excellent knowledge of music, which helped her immensely in her subsequent work as a pianist and composer.
I need to mention here the political unrest and, later, the cruel Portuguese Civil War and the Portuguese Colonial War that forever marked the life and work of this progressive writer. Antónia Gertrudes Pusich’s groundbreaking contributions also laid the foundation for future generations of female writers and journalists, establishing her as a lasting symbol of women’s empowerment and intellectual curiosity.
The impact of Senhora Pusich’s life transcends her literary achievements. She is considered to be one of the founding figures of modern feminism, a devoted proponent of women’s education and empowerment who worked relentlessly to make women’s lives better and easier in Portugal and Europe. She managed to arouse, in 19thcentury Portuguese and Cabo Verdean women, the civic sense that would be a reality in the following centuries.
Translation of words/verses: Dan Costinhas
Located in a residential area with several amenities only a few steps away such as supermarket, restaurants, hospital, schools and only 20 minutes’ walk from the historic centre. The apartment is composed by a welcoming entrance hall, a spacious and bright living / dining room with access to a south facing terrace overlooking the swimming pool and a fully fitted kitchen that flows to a rear terrace ideal for al-fresco
Nestled within the stone walls of the Palácio Gama Lobo, Loulé Criativo’s Design Lab hums with creativity, hosting resident artists who each bring their own unique crafts to life.
This month, I interviewed Paula Ramos e Ramos about her Crioula project. Paula has been part of Loulé Criativo for over a year now, and, with her bright smile and joyful energy, it’s safe to say she lights up the lab in more ways than one. Paula is a jeweller, goldsmith and artist whose elaborate desk positively brims (and even overflows) with the tools of her trade. And, just to keep the other criativos on their toes, she occasionally pulls out a flamethrower.
Shaping the unshapable
Working with metal, Paula showed me, involves plenty of patience, followed by the occasional moment of intensity – melting and shaping metal with high heat before cooling it in a special acid bath. “It’s scary at first,” she admits, “but you get used to it.”
Spending time with Paula, I came to understand that her passion for her craft is as durable – and yet open to change and experimentation – as the material itself. Paula is fascinated by how metal is both these things: seemingly so solid and permanent, yet infinitely malleable under the right conditions. “You can melt and reshape it over and over again,” she explained.
More proof that Paula has truly found her permanent passion is her fresh tattoo – a saw, one of her most-used tools – etched on her skin as a symbol of her love for jewellery-making.
But Paula’s path to becoming a jeweller wasn’t always set in stone. Let’s rewind and explore how she got here.
Fabrics to fire
Born in Faro to Cape Verdean parents, Paula grew up in the Algarve. She always loved drawing and dreamed of becoming a fashion designer. She studied visual arts in high school, where she honed her skills in painting and sculpture. Later, while living in Lisbon and Porto, she attended fashion design courses. However, it was only by chance, while babysitting for a visual artist, that Paula found herself surrounded by jewellerymaking supplies. That’s when her true calling was forged.
Whenever she had downtime, she lent a hand with the artist’s projects – and she hasn’t been able to stop taking courses and exploring this world ever since.
Passion and pen-dentes
A resident of Loulé Criativo since September 2023, Paula now thrives in a community where experimentation is encouraged.
One memorable project began with scraps of metal – oval or leaf-shaped cutouts left behind after some trophies were laser-cut. Where others saw leftovers, Paula saw potential: the opportunity to give these discarded pieces of metal a new life. She soldered them together into stunning earrings and even turned the larger Y-shaped cutouts into earring hangers to display them.
Paula also visited Loulé Criativo’s Oficina de Caldeireiros, where she worked with master coppersmith Senhor Analide. This downtown workshop is the only one in the country that still makes cataplanas (traditional cooking pots). Paula was fascinated to learn these largerscale metalworking techniques, and, together, they crafted two showstopping necklaces. One featured beads emerging from the middle – a nod to Paula’s Cape Verdean roots, as these beads are traditionally used to protect newborns from evil spirits.
Speaking of traditional techniques, Paula also showed me how she uses chocos – the white cuttlefish bones found on beaches. Paula explained how she carves designs into the soft material before pouring molten metal inside to create intricate shapes. She showed me a pair of earrings she had created this way and how this technique leaves a natural fibrous texture on the metal.
She also showed me a ring in which she used a piece of Portuguese calçada as its gemstone, as well as a necklace featuring her own wisdom tooth – a whimsical piece she calls her ‘pendente’.
It was clear that Paula enjoys creating all kinds of different things. She told me that there are almost infinite techniques in the jewellery world, and most people tend to specialise. But Paula is curious and loves learning a bit of everything.
She brings these techniques back to her work and experiments, blending different metals and methods.
I feel like this is only appropriate as Paula explained the concept behind the project’s name to me. Born in Portugal to Cape Verdean parents, Paula is herself a blend of cultures. The name Crioula is all about celebrating that rich diversity.
Follow the flame
For Paula Ramos e Ramos, metalwork isn’t just a craft – it’s a lifelong passion. The possibilities are endless, and her art evolves with her, showing just how transformative it can be to follow what you love.
If you ever visit the Palácio Gama Lobo, you might just catch her wielding a flamethrower – or turning a forgotten scrap of metal into something extraordinary.
To find out more, please follow her on Instagram. She may also have some upcoming workshops at the Palácio Gama Lobo so keep your eyes out for those.
@ajoalheiracrioula
www.loulecriativo.pt/pt/turismocriativo/experiencias
The Orquestra Ligeira de Lagos (OLL) presents a New Year's concert with a repertoire designed to promote peace between civilisations and mark the start of a new year based on hope and goodwill.
Tickets on sale at the reception of the Cultural Centre.
4 January, 7 pm
Lagos Cultural Centre
www.facebook.com/CentroCulturaldeLagos
A city is made up of people, so Portimão Museum has commissioned this exhibition as part of its centenary celebrations.
‘The City Speaks’ is an anthology of portraits of the people of Portimão taken over the last few months by photographers João Mariano, João Tuna and Filipe da Palma. The photographs will now be displayed on the façades of the Portimão Museum building and can be viewed until 24 January 2025.
1–24 January
Portimão Museum
museudeportimao.pt
A chance to brush off the January blues and get down to the rhythms of jazz at this fantastic concert offering a unique style of music.
Hosted by the Maloya Island Project, the event will showcase music from Ile de La Réunion, including singing, which is traditionally accompanied by percussion instruments. Now, new musicians are reappropriating it with jazz music to give the genre a revival. Tickets: €10
18 January
Factory Fusion Hub, Lagos
+351 933 702 078
Disclaimer: While we
To mark the day that Lagos was elevated to city status by King D. Sebastião in 1573, the Algarve Jazz Orchestra welcomes two guests: the talented jazz singer Clara Buser and Michael Lauren, one of the most important names in drumming. The concert is rounded off with some songs from the repertoire of Thad Jones, one of the world's leading jazz musicians.
Tickets on sale at the reception of the Cultural Centre.
24 January, 9.30 pm
Lagos Cultural Centre
www.facebook.com/orquestrajazzalgarve
Mostra Internacional de Cinema Social returns to Loulé. Monstrare, organised by the Loulé Film Office, is the first event in Portugal dedicated exclusively to showing international feature films and shorts focusing on social issues.
The event offers masterclasses, workshops and industry meetings, as well as being host to the CineTendinha awards. For lovers of the seventh art, this is an excellent opportunity to experience all facets of cinema and make contact with directors, critics and people from the sector.
22–25 January
Loulé
cineteatro.cm-loule.pt
Experience the tradition of Three Kings' Day with an unmissable concert featuring cultural associations from the municipality of Lagos. Free entry.
5 January, 9 pm
St Sebastian's Church, Lagos
André Sardet needs no introduction. Musician, singer, composer and lyricist, he is the author of some of the biggest hits in Portuguese music: ‘Foi Feitiço’, ‘Quando Eu Te Falei De Amor’, ‘O Azul Do Céu’ and ‘Adivinha Quanto Gosto de ti’, among many others.
In this intimate set, the artist presents a repertoire that explores both his greatest hits and the songs from his most recent album, Ponto De Partida, which celebrates 25 years of his career.
The arrangements highlight André Sardet's voice and characteristic style, emphasising the lyrics and melody of his songs.
Tickets: €5 (www.bol.pt)
5 January, 4 pm
Tempo Theatre, Portimão
www.facebook.com/TEMPOportimao
WORDS Flora Kouta
We all need a little spice in January. I’m not talking mince pies and mulled wine; we’ve had enough of those over the festive season. And I don’t mean having an affair; you don’t want that much spice. I’m talking about something to pep us up, something to bring a little oomph into the dark days of winter.
I’m not a fan of New Year’s resolutions, and I like a soakingwet January, but I do agree that the beginning of the year is a time for looking ahead and trying new things. If you have travel and exploration on your mind, but your bank balance is still reeling from Christmas, I’ve got just the tonic – a dose of rich pattern and print will whisk you away to faraway lands without ever leaving the comfort of your sofa …
January can feel like the darkest month of the year, but we’re actually getting a couple more minutes of light each day. On 21 December, the shortest day of the year, the sun sets at 5.21 pm. After that, it grows steadily lighter, and by 10 January, it's 5.36 pm, which is a whole 15 minutes more precious daylight! On 31 January, the sun doesn’t go down until almost 6 pm, and by then I’m in such a froth of excitement that I’ve put all my winter coats away, and I’m out shopping for bikinis. This looking forward goes the other way, of course. After the summer solstice on 21 June, I feel panicked that the days are getting shorter. I blame my grandad for my winter phobia. He used to ring me every 22 June and say in his gravest voice, “The nights are drawing in, lass.”
Hand-made patterns create a lively atmosphere and make everybody feel energised. It doesn’t mean you have to go all bohemian in your interior style, in fact, I think these kinds of prints work even better in minimalist spaces. If you have a sleek and modern home, they will add a lovely artistic dimension. You can create a sophisticated fusion between the clean aesthetic of current Portuguese interior design, and the personality and warmth brought by hand-drawn motifs from distant cultures.
Ikat is one of those patterns that invite anyone coming into your living space to travel and discover other flavours and landscapes. From the Malay-Indonesian verb mengikat, meaning to tie, Ikat is a unique process of resist-dyeing individual threads before weaving them into the fabric. In other techniques like batik, the resist is applied to the woven cloth, whereas in Ikat, the resist is applied to the yarns before they are woven. Although many designs are geometric, a characteristic of Ikat is a blurriness, and I think it’s that softness which makes it work well in so many different kinds of homes.
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Ikat is a complex and laborious process, but you can try Kantha and Shibori at home. Kantha is one of the oldest forms of embroidery in the world and evolved from the thrift of women in Bengal. It’s a stitching method that involves layering old saris or discarded fabrics and sewing them together using a running stitch. The patchwork bedspread in the picture on the left is a lovely example of contemporary kantha textiles. Shibori is a Japanese resist-dyeing technique that dates back to the 8th century. There are lots of ways to create the effect. In arashi, the cloth is wrapped around a pole to make a pattern that looks like falling rain; in itajime, the cloth is folded accordion-style to give a geometric grid; in kumo, the cloth is bound into tiny pleats to create spiderwebs. Similar to tie-dye, it’s fun and experimental because you’re never completely in control of how the dye is going to run and the final design is often a surprise.
Another technique that looks great on soft furnishings and gives a personality to any room is block printing. Developed in China during the T’ang dynasty, block printing is a process of applying patterns with engraved wooden stamps. It’s the earliest, simplest and slowest of all methods of textile printing and is used in countries all over the world. I managed to get my girls to put their phones down last week and try their hand at block printing on upholstery fabric.
My younger daughter Sienna made a blind for her room (pictured), but her sister Amarisse, who is more interested in fashion than interiors, made herself a sarong instead (pictured). It was the best winter’s day ever. I was over the moon that for two whole hours, they weren’t on TikTok or in their rooms with the door shut. They were totally immersed in something creative and even though I had to twist their arms to do it, they admitted to enjoying it a little bit in the end. As I watched the sun setting that afternoon, I thought about how it can be the very darkness of winter, the hours and hours spent in the house that inspire us to experiment with new things. If it weren’t for boring old January, I wouldn’t have all this beautiful block-printed fabric with which to make cushions. So maybe January isn’t the dreariest of months after all…
A fight academy based in Quarteira, on the outskirts of Vilamoura, is attracting local residents and holidaymakers alike, as well as the biggest names in martial arts and boxing.
When I met Mark Mcdonald, owner of Algarve Fight Academy, I was most struck by his focus on helping people of all ages get involved in boxing and martial arts. One might think this is down to an understandable desire to grow his already thriving business, but it’s far more than that. As Mark told me, “I’ve seen firsthand the difference this kind of environment can make to people’s lives, especially young people who might be going through a difficult time and looking for a new direction.”
Mark has worked and competed in the martial arts arena for much of his adult life, starting out in Kent in the UK before moving to Portugal just over two years ago. After initially working as a Thai boxing coach at Algarve Fitness Academy, he has since taken over its ownership and has already doubled its membership. Mark has been out visiting local schools and has organised training sessions for kids and parents. As Mark told me, “Boxing and martial arts are for everyone, regardless of age, gender or background.”
“I’ve seen kids struggling with attention deficit disorder or even making a nuisance of themselves in the locality,” said Mark. “They really benefit from the discipline that boxing and martial arts requires. The values of looking after yourself, regular exercise, perseverance and respecting your opponent so often gives kids the sense of structure and direction they’re seeking.”
Mark has created a venue that has become a beacon for boxing and martial arts enthusiasts. Kickboxing, Brazilian jiu-jitsu, amateur and professional boxing, Pilates, a well-equipped gym, Thai boxing, gymnastics, mixed martial arts, and Box Fit, along with classes to cater for all standards; it pretty much has it all. He includes
former world heavyweight boxing champion Dillian Whyte amongst his clientele. There’s also Charlie Edwards, the current European bantamweight champion and a host of top names from the world of martial arts. The academy also became a destination for fitness tourists – individuals looking to learn martial arts while enjoying the Algarve.
As we look forward to a new year, many of us will want to learn new skills and (like me) lose a kg or two. The Algarve Fight Academy, might just be what you’re seeking. As for Mark and his team, this is a journey that has always been about more than just competition; it’s about building a lasting legacy of boxing and martial arts excellence, and just as importantly, using it to change people’s lives for the better.
I’ve seen the difference this kind of environment can make to people’s lives, especially young people who are going through a difficult time and looking for a new direction.
www.algarvefightacademy.com
+351 925 690 527
info@algarvefightacademy.com
Award winning diving centre in Lagos Marina with a professional team with over 20 years of scuba diving experience. From beginner to instructor level and 5 to 40 meter dives, safety is their priority.
If you wish to publicise a sporting event, please contact our sports editor David Lugg: david.lugg@tomorrowalgarve.com
WORDS David Lugg
The 51st edition of the Volta ao Algarve (Tour of the Algarve) will take place between 19–23 February. Once again, many of the world’s best teams and riders will be taking part in what is considered one of the finest events outside of the Grand Tours. The 2024 race saw Belgian rider Remco Evenpoel take overall victory. Evenpoel went on to take gold in the time trial at the Paris Olympic Games.
The Autódromo Internacional do Algarve has officially opened its ‘Renewable Energy Community’. The racetrack near Portimão now has 2,000 photovoltaic panels to allow conversion from thermal energy into electricity. In a statement from director Jaime Costa, “This capacity allows us to supply not only the circuit but also the hotel, the apartments, the go-kart track and the ‘Celerator’, the technology hub that will soon be inaugurated.” In an attempt to become carbon neutral, the racetrack has initiated a number of ecological activities, including planting 38,000 trees.
Portugal have been knocked out of the women’s European Handball Championships. Starting as heavy underdogs, Portugal lost two very tight group matches against Spain and Poland before a comprehensive 28-16 defeat against France who are considered one of the tournament favourites. Considering that this is just the second time that the women’s national side has qualified for the championships, they can hold their heads high and be proud of their battling performances. Nineteen-yearold Matilde Rosa from Lagos was part of the 17-women squad and described playing at the tournament as a “dream”.
The Portugal Under-20 team have won the 2024 men’s Rugby Europe Championship. The competition, which is a tournament for the best sides in tier-two rugby, saw Portugal remain undefeated throughout the campaign. After a convincing 30-12 victory over Belgium in the semi-finals, Portugal faced 2023 winners Netherlands, but blew them away 46-14 with some wonderful attacking rugby. Victory also guarantees them access to the World Rugby Under 20 trophy to be held later this year.
LOCAL RUGBY
It has been a difficult start to the season for Loulé rugby club. The Algarve’s top side began their National Division One campaign with a chastening 54-7 defeat at CR Évora. The following match saw them up against another tough opponent in GD Direito and they were on the receiving end of a 31-12 loss. Loulé’s next home game is against Setúbal on 18 January. Entrance to the ground is free, though there is a small charge for a seat.
A goal in each half from Diana Silva ensured that Portugal won their play-off against the Czech Republic and duly qualified for the women’s 2025 European Championships in Switzerland. After drawing the home leg 1-1, both teams knew that the return match would be a nervy affair. However, Silva, who plays for Sporting Lisbon, scored with a leftfooted strike in the 76th minute winner to send the Portuguese through by an aggregate of three goals to two.
After a disastrous start to the season, Farense have finally climbed off the bottom of the Portuguese Primeira Liga table with a 1-1 draw at Boavista. Only a 95th minute equaliser prevented the Algarve side from taking the three points, but the draw means that they have not lost a match since a 2-1 defeat to Benfica on 2 November. In the Liga Pro 2, Portimonense have also seen a recent upturn of form following a bad start to the season. A 1-0 win over fellow strugglers Paços Ferreira saw the side from Portimão rise up to sixteenth in the league.
Algarve players Marta Gago, Lara Martins and Lara Lobo have all been called up to the women’s national under-19 side as they look to qualify for the European Championships. Portugal have only qualified once (in 2012), when they reached the semi-finals.
It’s January! We’re into a new year before the dust barely settles on the old one!
All that talk of ‘resolutions’ and a ‘fresh start’ can feel a bit much. So, instead of diving headfirst into new goals or promises of dramatic change, let’s just take a moment to reflect and reset.
First, take time to celebrate your wins from last year, no matter how small. Did you face challenges and keep going? Did you learn something new? Did you show kindness to yourself or others? Give your wins some airtime because they create a great foundation to build on this year.
Next, focus on what truly matters to you. Instead of making a long list of resolutions, choose one or two meaningful intentions. They may include prioritising your well-being, deepening relationships, or taking a small step toward a dream. Keep them simple and real.
Also, don’t forget the power of gratitude and routine. Take a few minutes each day to acknowledge what you’re thankful for and set small, manageable habits – like morning stretches or a calming evening ritual –that bring peace to your daily life.
Be kind to yourself. Don’t try to be perfect. Let this year be about finding joy in the journey. I wish you a year filled with positivity and possibilities!
What is dry eye syndrome?
Dry eye syndrome occurs when your tears can’t adequately lubricate the front surface of your eyes. Our tears are composed of three layers – the outer oily layer, the middle watery layer and the inner mucus layer – that work together to keep our eyes moist and healthy. With every blink, this tear film is distributed across the eye’s surface.
There are two primary types of dry eye syndrome:
• Water-deficient dry eye Occurs when the lacrimal glands don’t produce enough tears to keep the eyes hydrated.
• Evaporative dry eye Results from an insufficient outer oily layer, causing the middle watery layer to evaporate too quickly.
Common symptoms of dry eye syndrome
Dry eye is more than just an annoyance
– it can significantly impact your daily comfort and quality of life. Watch for these symptoms in 2025:
• Sharp pains
• Blurred vision
• Watery eyes
• Redness
• Burning or stinging
• Light sensitivity
What causes dry eye syndrome?
Let’s make 2025 the year we identify and mitigate the causes of dry eye syndrome. Some common risk factors include:
• Age: being 50 years or older increases your risk
• Gender: women are more susceptible due to hormonal changes
• Immune diseases: certain autoimmune conditions can affect tear production
• Contact lenses: long-term use can irritate the eyes
• Environmental conditions: exposure to dry climates, wind or smoke, as well as prolonged screen time or reading, can reduce blinking and exacerbate dryness
Treating and preventing dry eye syndrome
Managing dry eye syndrome often requires ongoing care and lifestyle adjustments, making it a great resolution for the year ahead. Here’s how to protect and soothe your eyes this year:
• Daily hydration: drink plenty of water to keep your body – and your eyes –hydrated
• Eat for eye health: include omega-3 fatty acids and a balanced diet rich in nutrients
• Sunglasses are essential: shield your eyes from wind and UV exposure with protective eyewear
• Use artificial tears: incorporate artificial tears into your routine to maintain tear film balance
• Break from screens: practise the 2020-20 rule – every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds to reduce digital eye strain
Make eye comfort a priority in 2025
If you’ve been experiencing dry eye symptoms, schedule an eye exam and share your concerns with our doctor at Algarvisão. Let’s make 2025 the year we put dry eyes behind us and embrace a fresh perspective on healthy vision!
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WORDS Elisabete Saunite
Through her nursing work, Elisabete Saunite identified a need to help expats easily access the healthcare system in Portugal. They often struggle due to language barriers, which challenge both them and medical professionals.
Elisabete has just developed a pilot project to ensure the migrant population receives help. Being aware of the charities Tomorrow supports, she shared this exciting news with us first.
I am from Oporto, right in the centre of the city. From a young age, I enjoyed helping with translation between friends or family members from different countries. After finishing my secondary studies, I had to decide which university course to choose. I realised that my passion for helping people in difficult health situations and my ability to translate could be more useful than an international relations degree, so I enrolled in a nursing course.
During my Master’s in nursing with a specialisation in Public and Community Nursing, I learnt about the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, which initiated my concern about the health access for migrants and the risks for all the population if not assessed. Undoubtedly, there is an increasing need to integrate everyone regardless of skin colour, belief or language. We are all humans, and we all have the same needs to be attended to. I ask, have you ever imagined what it would be like to be in a health centre for example, in India, China or Finland and not be able to understand a word or to say what you need?
Health is a legally protected right, and respect for life means all immigrants should have access to primary healthcare; otherwise, public health may be compromised.
I arrived in the Algarve around 10 years ago, bringing in my life luggage from different clinical institutions, professional experience, chronic wound expertise and a specialisation in one of the most devastating rare chronic skin diseases in the world, along with specific education in medical law, education administration and planning and occupational nursing.
A recent qualitative study I implemented among health professionals acknowledged obstacles and difficulties in Portugal and identified an urgent need to identify strategies to promote primary healthcare access for all nonPortuguese-speaking international populations.
The movement of migrants to countries other than their own requires the host country to develop strategies and solutions to integrate them into its healthcare system. Any new measure needs to comply with the international guidelines established by all United Nations member countries in the Global Pact for Migration and the Charter of Human Rights, namely accessibility to healthcare, according to the host country’s legislation.
EKSODOS is a pilot project approved for further development by the Unidade Local de Saúde do Algarve and its ethics committee. It aims to improve the health and quality of life of migrants by tackling the challenges they face in accessing primary healthcare services and eradicating the difficulties in communication between healthcare institutions, professionals, and expats.
The pilot project has been successfully developed and tested with primary healthcare professionals, updating their knowledge about the rights and duties of the migrant population to access primary healthcare and teaching them helpful communication techniques. EKSODOS implementation works in partnership with public entities, which will contribute to its success.
Additional initiatives planned for January will seek to eliminate language barriers and enable Portuguese medical professionals and immigrants to talk and understand each other without difficulties.
EKSODOS – Public and Community Health Intervention Project
My visit to the LACO business hub revealed a new ecosystem of small businesses that have grown out of a former industrial estate and been transformed into a new business community.
WORDS Sophie Sadler
I met with the operational director, Jimmy Bakker, whose enthusiasm for the project is infectious. He was involved in a similar project in the Netherlands and is already familiar with the positive benefits of bringing small businesses together and the symbiotic relationship this creates.
Located behind Lagos Retail Park, the hub was originally inspired by the vision of its four founding partners: Dave Hemminga, Jorge Lira, Karin Sligting and Jimmy Bakker. Dave and Karin are the owners of the real estate company behind the Cerro Mouro project, which specializes in sustainable homes. Jorge Lira serves as their technical manager, while Jimmy Bakker worked as a project manager during that time. In May 2024, Dave began searching for a large warehouse to establish a factory dedicated to producing closed timber frame houses.
During their search, they came across the former facility of SOLMATE, a well-known construction material supplier that shut down in 2015 the site included a number of old warehouses and showrooms. Since then, the premises had only been used by the Odiáxere Carnival Clube. This abandoned site boasted 3,892 m² of covered area and 7,344 m² of exterior space, including 11 offices, multiple functional spaces, large warehouses, and extensive outdoor areas.
The team quickly realised that the facility presented significant potential as a hub for innovation, offering flexible spaces and a wide range of services to support local businesses. Each partner brought their expertise to the project: Karin Sligting is responsible for legal and licensing matters, Dave Hemming oversees marketing and branding, and Jorge Lira serves as technical director. Together, they established the LACO Business Hub, creating a thriving space for entrepreneurship and collaboration.
LACO Business Hub officially opened its doors in March 2024, welcoming entrepreneurs from all nationalities to start or expand their businesses in the western Algarve. In early April, after clearing the site of leftover construction materials, the first tenants quickly “claimed” their spaces, marking the beginning of a vibrant entrepreneurial community.
New spaces were developed, office areas filled up and warehouses were repurposed to meet diverse business needs. In the initial days, the electricity infrastructure was restored, and a high-speed fibre optic network was installed, laying the groundwork for the hub’s rapid development and future growth. The hub already boasts a vibrant community of diverse businesses, including a food producer, a podcast studio, digital nomads, an artist collective, a mechanic, a skincare producer, and jewellery makers. These enterprises exemplify the creativity and entrepreneurial spirit that the hub seeks to nurture and expand in its next phase.
Jimmy took me on a tour, and we witnessed the construction of the space where local coffee producer The Studio Coffee will roast the coffee. He explains how this is part of the joy of businesses working in the same space. The aromas of coffee will permeate through the other business units and The Studio can provide them with coffee for their breaks or for meetings. So each business can offer services or support to the others. We also meet a surfboard shaper who is holding a workshop for surfers to build their own boards and an artist from a collective group who has established a studio there.
The first of their newly built workshop spaces are expected to be ready and available for rent by early 2025. I saw the 16 sustainable, wood-built workshop spaces taking shape within the vast cavernous space of the old warehouse. They plan to open up one side to let natural light flood the space and transform the exterior concrete jungle into attractive landscaping.
Additionally, plans are underway to develop both indoor and outdoor storage facilities, further solidifying the hub as a dynamic centre for innovation and collaboration.
Jimmy explains, “With the early adopters now settled and growing their businesses, the LACO Business Hub is entering its second phase of development. This phase includes exciting new projects within a 900m² warehouse named Just B. Here. These additions will provide versatile opportunities for entrepreneurs and significantly enhance the hub’s offerings.”
I left the site feeling elated that the LACO hub reflects a new era for Lagos and this area. It is a hub where creatives come together in a harmonious way to create new services and ideas that are sure to inspire others to do the same.
SONHOS EM MADEIRA: CARPENTRY
Jan Liebing, originally from Hamburg, completed his carpentry apprenticeship from 2004 to 2007. With a deep passion for woodworking, Jan began developing his own craft, creating bespoke furniture, joinery and cabinets.
Since joining LACO, Jan has fully immersed himself in his craft, transforming an empty 220m² space into a fully functional carpentry industrial workshop. The transition from a small workshop in Odiáxere to the spacious and dynamic environment at LACO has allowed Jan to expand his capabilities and take on larger, more complex projects. The hub’s collaborative atmosphere, combined with its diverse community of entrepreneurs, has provided Jan with invaluable support and inspiration as he works to grow his business.
LACO’s environment has not only supported Jan’s professional growth but has also become a place where his vision for his carpentry business can truly flourish.
Andreia de Jesus Sequeira Candeias decided to start her own business, determined and confident that, with hard work and dedication, she could build something special.
“The first steps weren’t easy, but persistence paid off. Little by little, the business began to grow and bear fruit, showing that anything is possible when you believe in your dreams. Later on in this journey, fate reserved a special ally for me: my husband Luís, who joined me and became an indispensable part of our company.”
Together, Andreia and Luís managed to overcome challenges and build the same values of hard work and commitment. They have been joined by several trusted employees and are starting to gain growing recognition from their clients, who trust them and their work. Having started from humble beginnings with simple cleaning jobs, they never stopped investing in growth. “We believe that knowledge is the engine of progress, which is why we have trained and expanded our services.”
Brilha Mais offers a wide range of solutions, including domestic cleaning, local
accommodation cleaning, window cleaning, sofa, carpet and mattress cleaning, commercial cleaning, offices, gyms and laundry service with collection and delivery. They opened their laundry space in the LACO hub in June 2024 and use it as their base for washing machines, ironing and other cleaning equipment.
“This new chapter brings us immense joy, as we are now part of a vibrant community of entrepreneurs where small and big ideas become success stories. Our journey is made up of hard work, dedication and passion for what we do – each achievement reinforces our commitment to providing quality services to our customers.”
They are now looking forward to the future with the certainty that there is still much to do and achieve. “This is just the beginning of a story that promises to grow every day.”
Sonhos Em Madeira
sonhosemmadeira@gmx.net
Instagram: @sonhos_em_madeira.pt
Brilha Mais
andycandeias@hotmail.com
Facebook: Brilha Mais
WORDS Steven Dunwell
Happy New Year! Enjoying your new tech purchase?
It is always exciting to explore the new features and improvements of a new device, whether it is a computer, phone, iPad or tablet.
However, as technology advances, so do the tactics of scammers. Here are some simple techniques to help you stay safe:
Check the source: always verify the email address. If it doesn’t look corporate, don’t reply. If you don’t know the sender, check with a third party first. Never forward
suspicious emails, as you may infect others.
Grammatical errors: be wary of emails with grammatical mistakes or that are badly laid out. These are often signs of a scam.
Personal information: never give out any personal information, especially bank or financial details.
Spam indicators: many networks now indicate if a call is spam. If you answer and are asked “Is this [your name]?” never say yes. Scammers can use this recorded response to access your personal details. Verify the caller: ask where they are calling from and the purpose
of the call. If it is a corporate call, tell them you will check with the company first. If the number is unfamiliar, block it.
Stay safe and enjoy your new tech! If you have any questions or need further assistance on this or any other IT-related subject, please feel free to ask.
info@stevendunwell.com +351 936 387 512 www.stevendunwell.com
If I were to offer my top tip for coffee drinkers in Portugal, it would be not to ask for “a coffee” unless you want an espresso. Knowing the type of coffee you want will make life a little easier for your barista and you!
WORDS Luka Alexander
January is known as being the coldest month of the year, but there’s nothing a good old cup of coffee can’t fix. While many of us presume that asking for coffee in a café means a regular white, Portugal seems to have a never-ending variety of coffees to choose from, giving even Starbucks a run for its money. So, this month, I’ll dive into the various styles of Portuguese coffee and what each one entails.
The history of coffee in Portugal
The trusty coffee bean first came to Portugal in 1727. According to an intriguing legend, in 1727, Sergeant Major Francisco de Melo Palheta was dispatched to settle a land dispute between French and Dutch Guiana. A Portuguese-Brazilian military officer, he arrived in Cayenne intent on smuggling out the coveted coffee plants that were so closely guarded. He set his eyes on the Governor of Cayenne’s wife, Madame D’Orvilliers. At the closing banquet, his amorous exploits paid off, as she handed him a bouquet of flowers which had coffee beans hidden within the blooms containing the seedling that would become the progenitor of the Brazilian coffee industry.
This led Brazil to become one of the biggest coffee producers and a rival to French Guiana! As the Portuguese colonists developed coffee plantations across Brazil, the trusty coffee bean eventually made its way to Portugal for roasting and distribution. Cafes were soon popping up across Lisbon and Porto, where the elite would meet over this newly found dark brew. Before long, coffee became the main choice of hot beverage in Portugal, which arguably became one of the first countries to expand the use of coffee to the European continent. However, the question remains, what are the differences between the many Portuguese coffees? (see the next page)
While I can't cover every variation of coffee I hope the following descriptions will encourage you to be a little more adventurous the next time you visit your local cafe. Why not take the plunge and order yourself something a little different. Asking a local barista what his favourite coffee is, he replied, “A simple coffee with milk or, as we say, meia de leite. Portugal has so many coffees even I can’t keep up.” So, there you have it, the list of the most known Portuguese coffees to keep you warm this New Year, and may it be a happy one too.
Top tip: If you’re heading over the border into Spain, just remember an espresso is known as café solo and the equivalent to a galão is called café manchado.
“Bica” is an abbreviation of “drink this with sugar” (“beba isto com açúcar”)
The bica, more commonly called “um café”, is equivalent to the widely known espresso. This small, strong shot of coffee is the perfect caffeine fix after a long meal. The name bica is popular in Lisbon and is an abbreviation of “drink this with sugar” (“beba isto com açúcar”), which made the then-new novelty of coffee more pleasant to drink. However, it’s not only Lisbon and the south that have their own way of asking for “um café”. If you’re from Porto, you would ask for a cimbalino, a name that derives from a brand of coffee machine which was once favoured among the coffee houses.
If you’re thirstier, you can ask for a pingado, meaning “a drop”. A pingado is topped with a little milk and served in a slightly taller cup, making a slightly longer and weaker version of the typical bica. If you want to spice up your coffee, you can ask for a pingado com cheirinho (literally meaning “a drop with a little smell”), which involves adding a drop of alcohol. Traditionally this would be Bagaço liqueur, but any spirit can be used.
The bica can also be served in various measurements, such as a full bica cheio or the average short bica curto Very occasionally, some might ask for a bica Italiano, which is nothing more than a teaspoon of highly concentrated coffee. If you want to be extremely fussy, you can also ask for the bica to be served in a cold cup (chavena frio) or a heated cup (chavena escada), but if you’re like me, you simply ask for a bica to avoid giving the barista (a skilled coffee maker) a mental breakdown.
The galão is probably the most favoured coffee options for visitors to Portugal. Served in the iconic tall glass, one needs asbestos fingers to hold it because it’s normally served piping hot. For those of you who are not in the know, the galão is a shot of espresso topped up with milk and it shares a similarity to a typical “flat white” that we know in Britain. Despite its translation loosely meaning “a gallon”, it’s safe to say you will get a decent-sized regular milky coffee, just not a gallon of it. Unlike the Italian requirement of their variation, the galão can be enjoyed any time of day, not only during the morning. On the other hand, if you’re looking for anything but regular cow’s milk, you might be in for a bit of a challenge. An oddity about the galão is that the plural doesn’t just add an “s”, it’s almost a different word – galões
If you’re not a milk person, you can ask for an abatanado, which is a simple bica topped up with water. It gives you a slightly longer black coffee, although it’s not as big as an American filter coffee.
For those of you who like a cup of tarmac – I mean, an extrastrong coffee – you can ask for a café duplo to give you an instant boost of energy. Meaning “double coffee,” this is simply a double bica or espresso.
Many say that the meia de leite (half a cup of milk) is basically a galão in a cup instead of a glass. In my opinion, it’s very similar to the galão, but slightly stronger, and a personal favourite of mine.
Literally meaning “a little kid”, it is basically a miniature galão in a bica cup. Who knows, maybe it was once given to kids before they were old enough for a full galão.
If you’re looking for a coffee on a hot day, an iced coffee isn’t exactly top on the list in Portugal, but a café com gelo makes a great alternative. A bica or espresso served in a glass of ice makes a refreshing cool coffee, especially during the summer months. Whilst not native to Portugal – it originated in Spain – cafe com gelo seems to be the local go-to drink on those hot sunny days when a caffeine fix is on the cards, with an extra cool down as a bonus.
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WORDS David Woodward
"Anyone can be a waiter, but to be good at it is an art."
This is what my restaurant manager told me when I took up my first position in a five-star hotel in Switzerland. Why haven’t the hospitality industry and the restaurant-going public heeded these words in the intervening thirty years?
Having worked in the industry in the UK, Portugal and Switzerland, I am increasingly alarmed at how many companies and employers abuse the whole system. In an industry where the demand for quality food and service is increasing, why is hospitality as a whole still viewed as providing menial labour for unskilled workers? Thus, it was with great interest that I read that the laws on tipping would be changing in the UK, where it is now law for all companies/ restaurants to give their staff 100% of any tips.
With guests’ expectations becoming ever more demanding and a decreasing number of youngsters entering hospitality, surely the industry must find ways to entice the next generation and not leave them disillusioned before they even start.
Yes, there are exceptions to the rule and I have worked in some top-class establishments which
have valued their staff and where the rewards have been high, but, in general, when I hear the words tips, service charge or tronc, I want to pull out what little hair I have left. Let’s make a few points clear: a service charge is not a tip. It usually contributes to almost the entire amount of an employee’s salary.
I worked in a famous restaurant in London where my salary was a measly £2,000 a year; the rest of the salary came from the service charge. I was guaranteed a set amount per annum, but the service charge far exceeded that amount, and the company never passed the excess on. This was a common practice that the new law is trying to rectify.
In many catering jobs, I have been introduced to the tronc system, where all the tips are divided between the staff. But what happens if your co-workers aren’t pulling their weight? You are then mightily annoyed that you have to share this tronc equally. Worse still, I have often found that the lion’s share of the tips usually go to the owners or the management, who already receive a generous salary.
I recently attended a recruitment day at a prestigious resort in the Algarve. The resort is worth billions and isn’t exactly relying on the same income as your local piri-piri restaurant! Despite this, I was informed that waiting staff are paid €1,100 euros a month, barely enough to cover local rent, but they did offer employees magnificent discounts. Twenty-five per cent on a round of golf that exceeded two hundred euros. Very generous on a wage of just over one thousand euros. The added bonus was that the management ‘controlled’ the tips, whatever that meant. Now, all the Portuguese staff I have met are courteous and friendly, and they excel at providing customers with outstanding service, but many are now being forced to look for employment in other industries or locations, as they are unable to afford even the most basic of living standards.
I also read about tipping in the States with interest. No, I haven’t worked there, but, apparently, 20 per cent is standard and if it isn’t forthcoming, you are likely to be chased down the street by a pretty disgruntled employee. Don’t get me wrong, I’ve always loved receiving tips and often had very generous ones, but do I think it’s my right to have one? No. That’s down to the guest. My view is that sometimes you win and sometimes you lose, but the restaurant/ hotel should pay a decent wage; it is not the duty of the guest to make up for low pay.
The one time I saw a system that benefited everyone involved was in a renowned restaurant in Zurich. You received a fair wage a percentage of sales, and you kept your own tips. You also paid for your mistakes. The management was paid well, as were the chefs, and they didn’t receive tips. The incentives were so great that no one was ever late (as you wouldn’t have a job if you were); we all queued up for extra shifts, the tips were substantial as there was no service charge, the staff stayed forever and the owner was a very wealthy man.
Most people I know who work in the industry do so because they love it, so I hope the industry, both in Portugal and abroad, wakes up before there is no one left to serve and starts valuing those individuals who sacrifice so much.
David Woodward is a British author (Confessions of a Waiter) who worked in the hospitality industry in the UK, Switzerland and Portugal for more than 30 years. Eventually, David relocated to the Algarve, where he enjoys the sandy beaches, the sunny weather, and his passion for writing.
‘We are on a mission to make healthy living easy and affordable for everyone.’
whatsapp: +351 968 921 353 - www.larutan.pt - @larutanshop Praia Da Luz, 8600-168, Lagos (next to Baptista Supermarket)
Portuguese traditional cuisine Across from Orbitur campsite in Praia da Luz
Open Tuesday to Sunday 12pm-3pm & 6.30pm-10pm
Bookings recomended: 282 761 539
If you’re opting for dry January, go for it! For many, it’s a great resolution that takes pressure off your liver, waistline and wallet, and I commend it!
Personally, I didn’t start drinking wine until I was in my late 30s, so I still feel like I have a lot to make up for. Hence, no dry January for me. Instead, I was thinking of a New Year’s resolution that does involve drinking but perhaps is outside the box. For those of you joining me and wishing to continue to imbibe into 2025, I propose a challenge/new fun resolution.Why not be more experimental with wine? I spoke to some local wine experts to help you take on this challenge. Saude!
Candace Olsen is a wine consultant, sommelier and guide for wine tasting tours and events.
candyleacane@me.com
Adega Monte Branco 100% Castelão from 2021 for 25.50€
A wine shop and wine bar that is an absolute must to visit if you’re in the Lagos area is Mosto! The wine program there is curated and directed by my good friend Sofia. Sofia’s experience as a winemaker and her time within the wine industry itself here and abroad makes her selection of wines unparalleled in the Algarve. Sofia is also absolutely the best at recommending wines suited to everyone’s proclivities, and her energy and personality are contagious.
Sofia wanted to recommend a vinho tinto from Adega Monte Branco, a winery located near Estremoz in the upper Alentejo. It is from a small family project that she respects. The winemaking team is Louis Louro and Ines Capão and the wine itself is unique from the beginning because it’s a single varietal and the adega’s latest bottling. In Sofia’s words, “It’s rough with edges that give the wine personality. It’s not rustic or refined but unique in its expression.” The wine is fresh, alive and, I can attest, undeniably drinkable to the very last drop.
Brandon, Sofia and Diane are offering a 5% discount on the purchase of the bottle they recommended Offer
Chiara Condello 2021 100% Sangiovese from Romagna Italy for 21.70€
One of my favourite wine shops to peruse international wines at great prices is Grappolo Enoteca. My friend Brandon owns and runs this surprising little wine shop here in Lagos. It always has an interesting, wellcurated variety of wines from all over Schengen, South Africa, New Zealand and Australia. It’s also always evolving, with new wines coming in weekly. Brandon’s familial roots originate in Italy so, of course, the Italian section of the shop is legit and has more than a few treasures!
I asked Brandon what his favourite “out of the box” wine was and without hesitation, he said Chiara Condello 2021. It comes from his grandfather’s region in Italy, from a new up-andcoming female winemaker. This wine is incredible; everyone who touches this wine falls in love with it.
Due to its specific terroir, this Sangiovese is more rustic than the other side of the Apennines in the Chianti region. However, it has character, unexpected nuances and an inexplicable energy that is evident in every sip!
Quinta Vila Rachel 2022 on offer for 28€.
An exciting recent addition to the bubbling night scene in Lagos is Madame. A wine bar and shop with stories, which I was thrilled about when they opened last year. The business is an organic reflection of two people coming together who just want to do wine. The focus is on the low content of sulfites or none added at all, and the mission is to remove the misconception that natural wine is all the same. From my experience of tasting and learning about their selection, Madame carefully and thoughtfully curates a natural fine wine collection with elegance, purpose, a story you’ll want to hear, terroir and reach-for-your-glass-again addictive flavours!
When I asked Diane for her recommendation for the new year, she answered Quinta Vila Rachel 2022 from the Douro. A red wine, the packaging of this particular bottle is entitled A União Faz A Força or Unity Makes the Difference.
The wine is 100% organic with zero sulfites added and in Diane’s words, it is her coup de coeur or wine crush from 2024. It is a blend of all of the quinta’s vineyards with more than 30 different varietals. Coming from an ancient line of artists, painters and sculptors, the winemaker Tiago is the first to make wine and it is truly an art. An untraditional wine from one of the most traditional regions, it’s fresh, almost salty, and even a bit animal. It evolves once opened, pulling and calling you back to it with every sip. Endlessly surprising and paletteprovoking, it’s worth making a trip to Madame and taking the time to enjoy it there. Don’t worry, Diane will keep it in stock into 2025 just for you!
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Happy New Year! I hope everyone is looking forward to 2025 as much as I am. At this time of the year, when we are all recovering from the festivities and the weather is quite chilly, I bring out this particular chicken noodle soup. This Malay soup is a style that is heavily spiced, and then cooked low and slow for a couple of hours to achieve an immense depth of flavour. Think cloves, cinnamon, bay leaves and star anise in a homemade chicken stock. So good! I hope this bowl hugs you from the inside as much as it does me this January.
Ingredients:
• ½ chicken
• 2 litres water
• 1 tsp vegetable oil
• 5 slices ginger
• 2 big red onions sliced
• 5 cloves garlic sliced
• 2 cinnamon sticks
• 6 star anise
• 5 cardamom pods
• 4 cloves
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 tsp coriander seeds
• 1 tbsp salt
• 1 cup of iceberg lettuce chopped
• 1 tbsp fresh coriander
• 1 tbsp crispy shallots
• 100 gm rice noodles
Instructions:
In a big pot, heat up your oil and sweat your ginger, onions and garlic until fragrant. Add all your dry spices into the pot, fry for a minute and then add water. You could opt to use a spice bag here for convenience, but I never
bother. I prefer to sieve out the spices at the end.
Slowly lower your chicken into the pot of water, put the lid on and then leave it to simmer for the next hour. After an hour, you can remove your chicken from the pot and set aside. Allow your broth to simmer for another hour while you take your time to shred your chicken and prepare your other garnishes.
When you are ready to serve, blanch your rice noodles, or any noodles of your choice, and then dress your bowl with chicken, lettuce or a vegetable of your choice, fresh coriander, crispy shallots, and, finally, as much broth as you like. This bowl of noodles is best served with a side of coriander chilli chutney.
Coriander Chilli Chutney
• 1 fresh big red chilli
• 1 small red chilli (piri)
• 5 cloves of garlic
• 1 tbsp chopped fresh coriander
• 1 tbsp dark sweet soy
Blitz the chillies, garlic and coriander in your food processor or chopper, and then mix with dark, sweet soy sauce. That’s it!
Joy Entry is a Malaysian home cook based in Lagos who is obsessed with the provocative, unapologetic flavours of South-East Asian cuisine
Instagram: @thatasianhomecook joyentry@gmail.com
An authentic Thai experience at Eat Thai in Lagos marina
WORDS Peter Cruiming
This gem, located by the marina, has recently opened its doors and has quickly captured the hearts of locals and tourists alike.
A warm welcome with a smile
Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted by the warm and friendly Thai staff. The restaurant features an outside terrace with five tables where you can enjoy your meal in the sun while overlooking the picturesque marina. Inside, there are fifteen tables and a comfy bar, perfect for an intimate night out or a casual dinner with friends.
An extensive menu full of authenticity
Eat Thai’s menu is impressive and adorned with beautiful photos of the dishes. The offering is diverse, with a noticeable number of vegan options, such as pad pak with tofu, Thai pad with tofu, and khao pad pak with vegetables.
Main courses start from as low as 10,50 euros, and the house wine is a steal at only two euros per glass
Don’t forget to indulge in the delightful sweet sticky rice with mango for just eight euros.
Excellent service and ambience
What truly sets Eat Thai apart is the excellent service and cosy ambience. Food is served promptly after ordering, and the staff are very helpful and friendly, without being intrusive. The restaurant’s location is breathtaking, overlooking the marina, and its intimate size creates a personal and comfortable atmosphere.
Eat Thai – a must-visit in Lagos
In summary, Eat Thai is a welcome addition to Lagos’ culinary scene. With delicious food, a fantastic atmosphere and excellent service, this restaurant comes highly recommended. Whether you’re a Thai cuisine enthusiast or simply in search of something new and flavourful, a visit to Eat Thai will surely not disappoint.
Open seven days a week, 12–11 pm
Peter Cruiming is the founder and restaurant critic for HotspotsAlgarve.com
TUE: Quiz Nights hosted by MC Carlito!
WED: Curry Club: Pakora starter, Authentic Indian Curry with Rice
THU: Pie Day: Terri’s Famous Pies w/ Chips or Mash
FRI: Fish & Chips Fridays
SAT: Piri Piri Chicken & Chips - Bread & Olive Couvert
SUN:
Welcome to 2025 … in the midst of the twenties now!
WORDS Lars Ramquist
The march of time doesn’t seem to have slowed down this millennium, so I thought I would sit up and pay it some mind.
Until somewhat recently, I thought that I would not keep ageing, rather, just stay in some Peter Pan existence of protracted youth. It seems this plan isn’t playing out how I was expecting it to. My knees, for sure, are calling bullshit on that one! Perhaps having kids has started my chronometer ticking with the rest of the world. They certainly help me to see that five years just went by (again). The same applies for our pets. Except that the five-year swish that just went past is 1/3rd of their lifetime!
Now, here's a New Year's treat for you … I am going to blow your mind right now … ready?
A dog year is not equivalent to seven human years.
Whoah. I hope this news didn’t hit your New Year hangover too heavily. Dogs and humans actually exist in the same temporal frame of reference. Their years are the same length as our years (if this wobbles you a little, then don’t watch the movie Interstellar).
So, with a pet’s life, each of these five years is more precious as it is roughly 1/3rd of their life. With this in mind, preventative medicine and early intervention in disease become even more valuable in promoting a happy, long(ish) life in your furry loved ones.
Vets internationally have agreed to advise health tests for pets over seven years old. Certainly, once they hit double figures in age, we find that routine health checks often flag non-clinical (occult) diseases in most patients.
Undertaking a routine health check (like I did earlier this year) has helped us identify a myriad of different diseases in ageing pets that the owners were unaware of. These diseases range from heart, liver and kidney disease to endocrine diseases. If these are picked up early, the prognosis for a longer and happier life is much better in these furry people.
As your car needs an MOT every year to ensure it is safe to drive on the road, so too does your little mate, to know that he or she is firing on all cylinders. We use our blood machines, X-ray machines and ultrasound machines to check all aspects of internal health.
If you want them to enjoy many happy ‘autumn years’, they should undergo regular agerelevant health checks. You can find more articles about this on our website.
Here’s to us all skipping merrily along with the march of time. The tempo won’t change, so enjoy the dance! Happy 2025!
The municipality of Vila do Bispo has recently teamed up with Projeto Patinhas de Sagres Associação de Proteção Animal, a non-profit organisation dedicated to advocating for the rights of animals, particularly strays and felines, to improve their quality of life.
The collaboration agreement, signed by Deputy Mayor Dora Guerreiro and the president of the charity Nuno da Encarnação, aims to foster a cooperative relationship for a project focused on promoting adoption awareness and animal welfare initiatives.
As part of the partnership, the association will be responsible for implementing a Capture, Sterilize and Return (CED) programme, identifying and caring for colonies of street cats in the Sagres parish, educating the public and caregivers on proper animal care, providing medical attention to animals in need, maintaining clean colony areas to prevent disease transmission, and ensuring the animals are fed properly.
To support the association’s efforts, the municipality has pledged financial support totalling €17,221.00, as well as technical and logistical assistance.
This partnership between the municipality and Projeto Patinhas de Sagres – Associação de Proteção Animal exemplifies a commitment to animal welfare and community collaboration in the region.
hen the roof began leaking at Casa de Acolhimento Nossa Senhora do Carmo – a home for vulnerable children in Lagos – the charity needed to raise money urgently. With the rainy season fast approaching, they needed funds to ensure the home remained safe.
Casa de Acolhimento Nossa Senhora do Carmo (CASLAS) plays a crucial role in the Lagos community, providing a safe and nurturing environment for young people in need. With limited government funding, the home relies heavily on the generosity of local organisations, volunteers, and donors.
As highlighted in our March issue last year, the refuge had already been undergoing essential renovations with support from the community. However, in November the charity faced a new challenge. The roof began to leak, just weeks before the rainy season was due to start.
When Jo Halliday from Currencies Direct heard about the charity’s plight, she knew she had to help. “I moved to Lagos 18 months ago and was extremely lucky to be welcomed into the community – both in business and personally,” said Jo. “I feel it’s so important to give back, especially as an expat.”
Jo contacted Ana, the manager of CASLAS, to find out more about the refuge and its needs. “One of the things she mentioned was the leaking roof, which would cost around €14,000 to repair. I knew we could start by making their living conditions more comfortable,” she explained.
Currencies Direct is a currency exchange company. They specialise in offering a highly personalised service to help their customers get more from their money transfers. If you want to learn more, or recommend a charity for them to support, get in touch with the Currencies Direct team by scanning the QR code, or call +351 289 395 739 and quote ‘Tomorrow Magazine’
WORDS Luis Teves Costa
In the aftermath of Christmas and New Year, January is typically a month of new beginnings, starting fresh, engaging in physical activities and embracing the great outdoors. For the latter, Tomorrow brings you a resident bird in Portugal that you are likely to spot when you are out and about.
In reality, you have probably already seen one, even if you were not able to identify it. It is the Eurasia jay (Garrulus glandarius). The Latin name suggests a noisy acorn collector (Garrulus = chatter and Glandarius = relating to acorns), which is very apt for this bird.
Present in most of Portugal and, in fact, throughout a very wide distribution range that includes Europe, North Africa and Asia, this jay is highly adaptable and, although originally a forest and woodland inhabitant, it has been found in urban parks and gardens, ideal places to live.
A small to medium-sized passerine, this jay has a wingspan of 55 centimetres and measures 35 centimetres from beak to tail. It is recognisable mainly for its pale bronze colouration. Below the eyes, a black stripe, and the black and white wings show a segment of electric blue. The jay also has a distinguishable screeching call and is often heard before it’s seen. On the ground, they hop around foraging for their favourite foods, which include a variety of nuts, insects, seeds, fruits, small eggs, young birds, and even mice.
FUN FACT:
“jay anting” is the term given to a special behaviour. When preening, jays will sometimes look for ant nests and allow ants to crawl over their bodies and wings. It is thought that the formic acid released by the ants acts as a parasite repellent.
These industrious birds particularly like and seek acorns. During autumn and winter, when acorns are plentiful, jays will hide hundreds of acorns around their territory in case they will need food later on in the year, effectively creating a woodland pantry. This hoarding behaviour, called caching, is not only beneficial for the jay itself but also for other creatures of the woods that will find the hidden snacks. For the oaks, the dispersion of the nut seeds is an opportunity to germinate and grow a tree in a new part of the forest, wood or park.
Jays are members of the crow family. Corvids, in general, are renowned around the world for their intelligence and ability to solve problems creatively. The Eurasian jay is no different and shows impressive skills when mimicking other woodland sounds for its own advantage. For instance, when disputing for food with other birds or when threatened, they can call out the sound of a bird of prey to scare off competition or confuse attackers. They have also been seen mimicking the sounds of other woodland birds and even the meow of a cat.
There are around forty other species of jay worldwide, mainly distributed across the Americas and Asia. The Inca jay (Cyanocorax yncas) of South America stands out for its impressive exotic plumage of bright yellow, green, and blue.
WORDS Ann Hodges
As a volunteer at Cadela Carlota, I regularly interact with more than eighty dogs. Some have suffered appalling treatment, and they are disoriented and frightened. Usually, they learn to adapt and trust us.
However, kennel life is too stressful for some dogs. The constant barking from other dogs and the comings and goings do not help. What they need is one-to-one attention, a calm, quiet environment and a regular routine.
Sadly, this is not something we can give them. In order to cope, they ‘shut down’ and usually end up cowering in a corner. Even the regular walks we give them cannot overcome their fear. They face a life in the kennels because they are unable to establish a real bond with either a human or another dog.
We cannot allow these dogs to be overlooked. For them, the solution towards a forever home is a temporary foster family. Often, a few weeks in a more stable environment means that they are ready for a forever home within weeks. Could you find room in your home and heart to temporarily help one of these dogs? The team at Cadela Carlota will be by your side every step of the way.
PEANUT
I am only very young and I have always been alone. I know how to behave with other dogs, but I am so afraid of humans. I do not trust them. I would like a safe place to call my own where I can learn to socialise, trust people and not be afraid.
CASPAR
I am three and I have been living at the shelter for a year. Previously, I lived on the streets, so I was very scared of people and hid away a lot. I love playing with other dogs. I would like a better life where I’m not afraid of everything anymore.
WORDS Natércia Godinho
With the arrival of a new year, many of us feel inspired to break free from the ordinary and embrace fresh adventures. If your resolution is to explore beyond the Algarve’s golden beaches, Central Portugal’s ‘Twelve Historical Villages’ offer an unforgettable escape. These ancient gems, nestled amidst rolling hills and rugged landscapes, are a gateway to Portugal’s soul – where history, gastronomy, and tradition come alive. Why not trade sandcastles for medieval castles and discover the timeless beauty of Portugal's interior?
These villages are living testaments to Portugal’s resilience, whispering tales of poets, conquests and battles. Travel by motorhome or opt for cosy alojamento local, and you’ll find yourself surrounded by beauty. Some motorhome spots even sit beneath medieval castles, promising enchanting stays.
Let’s begin the journey, in the southernmost village and head north. Each stop holds stories, flavours and traditions that promise to enrich your year.
This ancient village, once a Roman city, is a paradise for history buffs. It has a Roman wall, a Visigothic cathedral, and an olive press.
• Traditions: olive oil production is part of local life.
• Gastronomy: pair olive oil with warm bread—it’s divine.
• Famous figures: historian Francisco Tavares captured its legacy.
• Motorhome tip: stay near the Roman wall for an atmospheric experience.
Sortelha is a medieval village encircled by granite walls, its cobblestone streets transporting you to the 13th century.
• Traditions: the Feira Medieval revives history with jousts and festivities.
• Gastronomy: try bolo finto, a sweet festival bread.
• Famous figures: poet Eugénio de Andrade was inspired by its beauty.
• Motorhome tip: a quiet area just outside the gates ensures peaceful parking.
Nicknamed “the most Portuguese village”, Monsanto’s granite houses blend with massive boulders, creating an otherworldly landscape. Fans of House of the Dragon will be thrilled to know that episode 10 was filmed here!
• Traditions: May’s Festa das Cruzes fills the streets with music and flowers.
• Gastronomy: try ensopado de borrego (lamb stew).
• Famous figures: writer Fernando Namora immortalised Monsanto in his works.
• Motorhome tip: park below the castle for scenic views.
The birthplace of Pedro Álvares Cabral, Belmonte celebrates its Jewish heritage with a museum and synagogue.
• Traditions: Jewish customs thrive here during Passover.
• Gastronomy: savour borrego à moda de Belmonte (lamb).
• Famous figures: explorer Pedro Álvares Cabral.
• Motorhome tip: a park near the castle offers panoramic views.
Photo courtesy of cm-belmonte.pt
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First-floor units also feature a small balcony. Built with sustainability in mind, they include robust wooden framing and modern infrastructure, ensuring reliability while adapting seamlessly to your unique requirements.
Why Choose LACO Hub?
Prime Location: Only 3 km from Lagos city centre, offering easy access to suppliers, clients, and leisure.
Customizable Spaces: Adaptable to your creative and professional requirements.
Modern Infrastructure: Sustainable construction ready for your setup.
Collaborative Community: Connect with likeminded entrepreneurs and creators.
Future Storage & Parking: Secure, flexible solutions for short and longterm needs.
Take Action Today!
Join a thriving community where creativity and ambition thrive. Secure your space now and grow your business in a space designed for success. Contact us to schedule a tour or book your spot at LACO Hub. Let’s build the future together!
Known as the “village of paragliders”, Linhares da Beira combines medieval charm with adventurous spirit.
• Traditions: paragliding competitions add excitement.
• Gastronomy: taste queijo da serra (mountain cheese).
• Famous figures: troubadour João Afonso sang of its beauty.
• Motorhome tip: park below the castle for a stunning sunrise.
This hilltop village offers sweeping views and a rich history tied to the Reconquista.
• Traditions: solemn Easter celebrations are unique here.
• Gastronomy: almond-based sweets are a local speciality.
• Famous figures: the Marquis of Castelo Rodrigo.
• Motorhome tip: a nearby park offers easy village access.
Piódão’s slate houses cling to the hillside, offering a magical retreat.
• Traditions: Christmas lights transform the village into a winter wonderland.
• Gastronomy: try broa de milho (cornbread).
• Famous figures: writer Aquilino Ribeiro captured its mystique.
• Motorhome tip: a parking spot offers sweeping views of the valley.
Encircled by walls, Trancoso brims with history, particularly its Jewish quarter and impressive castle.
• Traditions: the Feira de São Bartolomeu is one of Portugal’s oldest fairs.
• Gastronomy: try the matrinchã sausage.
• Famous figures: the poet Bandarra was born here and is remembered for his prophetic verses.
• Motorhome tip: stay by the castle walls for an immersive experience.
Nestled in the Serra da Gardunha, Castelo Novo enchants with its granite streets, fountains and scenic views.
• Traditions: craft markets showcase regional artistry.
• Gastronomy: indulge in arroz doce (rice pudding).
• Famous figures: poet Eugénio de Andrade admired its tranquillity.
• Motorhome tip: park at the village entrance.
Shaped like a star, Almeida is a fortress village steeped in military history.
• Traditions: military reenactments revive its dramatic past.
• Gastronomy: savor feijocas de Almeida (bean stew).
• Famous figures: General Junot.
• Motorhome tip: Stay near the fortress walls under the stars.
A peaceful medieval village, Marialva’s castle ruins are perfect for exploration.
• Traditions: the Medieval Festival celebrates its vibrant past.
• Gastronomy: sample honey and cabrito assado (roast kid).
• Famous figures: Queen Santa Isabel visited Marialva during her pilgrimages.
• Motorhome tip: park near the castle for stunning hill views.
Double-walled fortifications define this medieval gem steeped in history.
• Traditions: medieval reenactments breathe life into its past.
• Gastronomy: enjoy bacalhau à Brás
• Famous figures: explorer Miguel CorteReal, a nobleman of the Royal household, was murdered in the village by his own soldiers. His tomb is near the castle.
• Motorhome tip: park near the gate for a cosy stay.
Closing thoughts
This New Year, explore Portugal’s heart. The Twelve Historical Villages are unforgettable journeys through time. Whether by motorhome or visiting alojamento locals, let these magical places inspire a year of adventure.
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WORDS Julian Putley
After the excesses of the holiday season, there’s nothing like an invigorating walk, perhaps taking in fresh sea breezes, enjoying the wonders of nature or hiking through a wooded hillside.
The Algarve region of Portugal is blessed with many amazing walking and hiking opportunities. There are the hillside paths of Monchique, the Pontal da Carrapateira Trail, boardwalks adjacent to the shore, the National Park trails of Barão de São João and much more. For the adventurous, the Fishermen’s Trail could be an attractive option. It’s a 226.5 km coastal trail starting at São Torpes beach near Sines, in the Alentejo, and ending in Lagos. The trail is part of the Rota Vicentina network of hiking trails in southwest Portugal. Although it is primarily a coastal trail, it also meanders inland for some of the sections. Campsites and guest houses are available along the route.
One very popular coastal path that is part of this route runs between Praia da Luz and Burgau. It’s about three miles long and fairly flat except for a manageable hill halfway along, whose summit provides panoramic views both east and west.
It was a bright and sunny autumnal day when I decided to enjoy this beautiful walk once again. Armed with a walking stick, hat, water bottle and sunscreen, I drove to the beginning of the trail near The Bull, a well-known Luz pub, and headed west. Once past the luxury villas, the trail splits into two. I prefer the option closer to the cliff edge for viewing the various bays along the route, but caution is required. Don’t get too close to the edge – those overhangs can be unstable. Some striking stands of pampas grass, looking rather like feather dusters, adorn the edges of the trail. In spring, a carpet of wildflowers embellishes the walk, but in autumn the succulents, aloes and cacti are more noticeable.
On the western side of the hill, you can look back and see a recent landslide attesting to the unstable nature of these coastal cliffs. The structure of these cliffs is made up of soft sandstone, lending itself to erosion, as clearly seen by the many unsupported overhangs. In some places, these sedimentary rocks change colour due to the differing amounts of minerals present, like iron, magnesium and aluminium, in varying states of oxidation.
Continuing west, when you arrive at the open area past the private properties, look inland. On the ridge, you can see the ruins of a windmill and some derelict farm buildings.
I decided to investigate and took a slight detour up the hill. The shaft that used to turn the mill sticks out horizontally, but the sails are long gone. The structure is open and the mechanism that once turned the millstones to create flour from grain is clearly visible.
The abundant century plant (agave) is used as a Christmas tree in many tropical countries.
Along the rocky shore, shellfish gatherers were busy collecting tasty morsels, while at sea, day trippers on pleasure boats were enjoying the calm seas and warm weather. Inland, in every direction, stylish villas sat in manicured lawns.
I carried on and took care not to step on a couple of ladybugs that were taking their time to cross the path. Apparently, it’s bad luck to kill them and I think they knew it.
At one point, a flock of swallows seemed to be attacking a cliff face, perhaps foraging for insects. Most swallow species migrate south in winter, so they may have been en route.
A steep hill greets you about halfway along the trail, and here you have two options: go straight up to the summit or take a slightly circuitous and easier route. I took the latter and then climbed to the top at the sign; the trail is marked with turquoise and blue stripes at various points, so you can’t get lost. The views at the top are spectacular.
Across the countryside to the north is another ridge where modern wind turbines are providing power for a different purpose: electricity.
I returned to the trail and continued towards Burgau. There are forts all along the Algarve, built to protect local communities against invasion from the Barbary pirates who were prevalent in the 18th and 19th centuries. One of these forts now houses the O Navegador restaurant.From its grounds, there are spectacular views of Burgau beach, the village and the rocky promontories to the west. In Burgau, there are several good cafes and coffee shops for a relaxing rest and refreshment before returning.
Note: if you don’t want to walk the full three miles each way, there are options. From Luz, you could walk the first part of the trail and then turn around halfway at the hill to retrace your steps. Or you could drive to Burgau, park near O Navegador, walk as far as the hill and then return to Burgau. There are regular buses to and from Luz for those without a vehicle.
If you set off from Cabo de São Vicente on foot and follow the 263-kilometre Historic Way, then sooner or later, you’ll arrive at Santiago do Cacém.
WORDS Tracy Burton
The town marks the most northerly point of the Rota Vicentina region, a sprawling landscape of protected land (the Parque Natural do Sudoeste Alentejano e Costa Vicentina), magnificent coastline, whitewashed villages and vast swathes of farmland.
Yet Santiago shouldn’t be viewed only as a place of arrival or departure. The town is an interesting destination in its own right, with plenty to offer visitors.
Preferring to explore on foot, we followed the waymarked PR2 STC – Historic Santiago route, which meanders around the town, ensuring you won’t miss anything.
We arrived in town on a Sunday morning in late September and parked near the charming Parque Urbano do Rio de Figueira, built on farmland once belonging to the Counts of Avillez.
The park superbly blends modern facilities, such as two municipal pools, sports facilities, and picnic areas, with landmarks of bygone times. The Baroque-style Fonte de São João Baptista was constructed in 1705 as part of the local water supply system, which included a nearby aqueduct (no longer intact).
After a tough climb, we reached the wide, cobbled Passeio Romano encircling Santiago’s castle. Pausing for breath, we gazed at the surrounding landscape. Down to our left was industrial Sines, while to our right, the bay stretched to the Tróia peninsula and beyond.
Despite its name, the promenade was constructed in the 1840s. The first car arrived in Santiago in 1895, however, driving along the Passeio Romano remained forbidden – the walkway was intended for socialising rather than being a thoroughfare.
The Passeio Romano delivers visitors to the town’s historic centre, on the eastern slope of the castle hill and with narrow, cobbled streets unsuitable for vehicles.
It’s rare to visit a town with such a comprehensive telling of its history. Here in Santiago, every monument boasted its own interpretation board: the Pillory of Santiago, the Old Town Hall and the Hospital of the Holy Spirit. There was the distinctive yellow and white building of the Harmonica Society, founded in 1847 to promote harmony between families who were at odds following the liberal wars, particularly the recent Patuleia Civil War.
We weaved our way around the historic quarters, discovering a new landmark around every corner. The proportions of the former municipality butchery seemed too small for its original purpose of trading and controlling meat, fish and vegetables.
We passed the Igreja da Misericórdia, built in the sixteenth century and damaged in both the 1755 and 1858 earthquakes, but less so when anarchists set fire to it in 1895. The flying buttresses on one side fascinated me; between two lies an ornate Manueline portal decorated with vegetable motifs to represent the resurrection of Christ.
Torre do Relógio is another earthquake survivor, although the subsequent cracking and bulging isn’t visible from street level. The clock tower was erected between 1667 and 1687 to house the castle clock after one of the castle towers was in danger of collapse.
Every turn revealed something else to admire. My own favourite was Casa das Heras, a manor house with its walls entirely covered with ivy and only the windows peeping through.
We mustered the energy to ascend yet more cobbles and reach the peaceful Tapada dos Condes de Avillez, where we enjoyed our picnic lunch with the palace as a backdrop and great views across Santiego’s modern neighbourhoods. The gardens were dotted with pretty buildings, including a private chapel, a ruined greenhouse and a small Swiss chalet which operated as a teahouse. Wander around and you’ll encounter the grave of a much-loved horse who died on 23 March 1924 – possibly during the clash between the rebel forces and loyalist government troops in the Battle of São João do Estoril.
The hilltop castle was originally founded by the Moors but rebuilt after D. Afonso II reconquered Santiago in 1217.
We didn’t go inside the castle keep for reasons of time, but we did wander around the ramparts, taking in the views. Unusually for the Iberian peninsula, the walls were sufficiently high for this acrophobic to enjoy the experience.
Roman ruins
The ruins of Miróbriga are within easy reach of the town centre and not to be missed.
Hailing from Newport, Wales, where we have Caerleon (Roman barracks, baths and amphitheatre) and Caerwent (Roman town) on our doorstep, it takes a lot to impress me, however Miróbriga managed to do just that. The extent of the paved Roman road and the main excavations are equally spectacular. Inside a Roman villa, painted murals were clearly visible. With 60 centimetre-thick brick walls, layered with yet another 10 centimetres of cement, it’s not surprising so much remains standing.
The Miróbriga site, abandoned in the fifth century, boasts a Roman forum, a temple, public baths, a bridge, and a Roman hippodrome, which was used for chariot racing. It costs three euros each to visit the onsite museum and excavated Roman site.
turismo.cm-santiagocacem.pt/en
