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Melissa Jane
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START OFF PLUS
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C O N T A C T S MARTIN GOODKIND
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We're nearly at the end of a year that will stay forever imprinted on the psyche and which we'll say farewell to with a sense of relief. This year, 2020, has changed us all – made us stronger but sometimes sadder, determined but often downhearted, ready to adopt new ways but always remembering the old. We're surrounded by people who put their lives out there to improve the lot of others, and we ourselves have learned new skills, taken up new interests, and rediscovered old friendships. It's time to look at what we've gained, rather than what has been lost, and just be pleased we are here in our chosen homeland. Putting together end-of-year issues is always a special treat – there's so much to talk about, from gift ideas to getting out and about to see what local businesses are working on to make the festive season live up to its name. Parties may be off the menu, but thanks to the likes of Zoom we can celebrate with friends and family, watch gifts being opened and smiles coming out. We're here to guide you to good things, share our latest discoveries, open the doors to your comments. Getting emails from readers saying: "Great suggestion, went there and loved it, thank you," puts the real pleasure into publishing. Our wishes to you for a safe and successful 2021. Be interesting to compare New Year resolutions with those of the past.
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IT HAS BEEN A YEAR LIKE NO OTHER. BUT RESOURCEFULNESS AND RESILIENCE BROUGHT OUT THE BEST IN MANY WHO DISCOVERED NEW S TR E N GTH S AN D H I D D E N PA S S I O N S
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which were inspiring. And I spent many quality hours reconnecting with old friends on Zoom, FaceTime or WhatsApp, something we didn’t do previously. On those walks and runs, the ordinary townscapes of
Portimão became fascinating, finding peculiar beauty, which I would never have noticed otherwise. In a town devoid of the usual crowds, I became obsessed with the unusual spring light that matched the feeling of apprehension brought
on by the daunting virus situation. But lockdown for me was the gift of time. The deepening of certain relationships and the challenges of others. Maybe it worked a bit like a sieve... leaving the essential.
BEN AUSTIN Art curator
The pandemic made an existing easy pace of life even slower. Time for long dog walks and time to take in the wonders of the natural world during the spring, all fresh and vernal. What else? I cooked liked a demon. Dishes were prepared, enough to feed a small family and the whole process filmed and posted on social media. Fun was also had online with Friday night ‘house parties’ with friends in the UK. I think we are all collectively grateful for the technology enabling us to reach out and connect. Video calls can
never replace the ‘in-person’ experience, but it remains a sort of sci-fi marvel in this period of isolation and anxiety. On the work front, I was delighted to have had the opportunity to curate an art exhibition entitled Fresh Colours at Fresco Gallery in Almancil. The show, I am pleased to say,
was a success for all involved. Everyone will have their own 2020 story and in spite – or maybe even because of – all the fear, confusion and division, we must try to retain our fundamental humanity, be kind to each other and look after the planet we share. Otherwise we are all buggered…
We must try to retain our fundamental humanity and look after the planet we share. Otherwise we are all buggered…
LOVE TO HEAR WHAT YOU’VE BEEN UP TO. EMAIL SUSI@ALGARVEPLUSMAGAZINE.COM
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I walked to the sea every day without fail. Then I jogged to it and haven’t stopped that habit yet. I stopped stressing about waking up regularly at four in the morning; there was no real need to be rested or sociable or efficient the next day. I would make tea and write down all my dreams, worries and doubts. without the intention to re-read any of it. Lockdown was like a mirror… I kept bumping into myself! I painted every day, discovered working on aluminium – a very different surface to canvas – and I got hooked. I learnt how to shop online. Dangerous! I also got involved with artistic initiatives online, like the @artistsupportplege,
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CAROLINE LANGSTON Charity worker
Wow 2020, what a year! It’s one of those years that will be shrouded in a black veil in our history books. However, I have turned the frown upside down and put my efforts into finding the best life I can. Top of the list of things that I am grateful for is that all my loved ones have stayed safe and well. After that I am so thankful to be living here in Portugal. Words cannot express the warm feeling I get inside when I think of this beautiful country and its people. Where I live, here in Tunes, the locals are welcoming and are always ready with a friendly “Bom dia” when our paths cross. As the realisation of the consequences of the Covid crisis became clear, we shifted the focus of the registered charity we are part of, Associação Guarda-Chuva, to help feed families who are financially affected by Covid-19. With the help of many generous local residents and businesses, we have tried to make a difference to the local community. It has been a busy but rewarding year.
I am so thankful to be living here in Portugal. Words cannot express the warm feeling I get inside when I think of this beautiful country and its people
BRIAN REDMOND Journalist
It is accepted that our conscious present and future are derived from our past experiences and despite how much we would like to hurry in the next year in the hope that things can only get better, there are aspects of this year that we cannot leave behind; if there ever was a year to scramble our consciousness, then it was 2020. In a tactile society like Portugal where friends, workmates and business colleagues are greeted with a handshake every time you meet it posed a dilemma. Should you kick them in the ankle, give a clumsy elbow or use the ‘fist bump’? Human contact is crucial in a civilised society and to be deprived of it, like millions trapped in cities across Europe since March, is impossible for me to comprehend when I am fortunate to live in the open landscapes of Algarve where a walk in the hills is just a stone’s throw away. But all was not gloom in 2020. People’s ingenuity, nature’s balancing act, animals reclaiming their rights and privileges and the art of baking have been among the high points as has the smog clearing from choked cities across the globe. This year friends, family
and acquaintances have been on our radar more than before and for a very good reason as society on the whole has become a little more in tune with our responsibilities to each other. The population of Portugal in general has reacted respectfully to the new rules – they know that patience is the key. The situation is predicted to improve midway through 2021 and hindsight then may show that we have developed in a positive way and that we have taken on board some lessons and experiences that can’t be left behind.
In Portugal, friends are greeted with a handshake every time you meet. It posed a dilemma – should you kick them in the ankle, give a clumsy elbow or use the ‘fist bump’ MORE VISIONS ON PAGE 49
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GET IN THE CAR, HEAD WEST AND IN LESS THAN AN H O U R YO U ’ LL B E I N TH E CIT Y O F L AG OS (O R YO U CO U LD H O P O N A T R A I N AT A L M A N C I L A N D E N J OY T H E € 6 J O U R N E Y ) . T H I S T I M E OF THE YEAR, SIGHTSEEING
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BRIAN REDMOND
HERE IS a very attractive classically designed and recently restored building near the waterfront in the harbour town of Lagos. It houses a museum. Given Lagos’s extraordinary maritime history one could be forgiven for overlooking yet another museum but this modest little building with its arches and cast iron railings has quite a reputation. It is the site of the first ever commercial slave market in Europe. Infante D. Henrique more famously known as Henry the Navigator was based in Lagos during the early part of the 15th century, from where he administered the exploration of the west African coast using the newly developed highly manoeuverable Caravel ships. After Henry´s defeat of the Moors on at the north African city of Ceuta in 1415, he wanted to know how far south into the African continent did the Moors actually have an influence.
The expeditions he sent came back with African slaves to compensate for the cost of the expenses of their voyages. These slaves were seen as spoils of war because they were perceived as being the Moorish enemy. Slave raids into sub Saharan Africa became commercialised in the early 1440s when the Portuguese formed trading networks with African nobilities and slave traders. In 1444 Prince Henry attended the auction of the first consignment of 235 slaves at Rossio da Trindade at Portal da Vila where the Igreja de Santo António now stands. Henry levied a duty of one fifth the value of all merchandise brought into the port of Lagos at that time and this now included the sale of slaves. In 1455, in an attempt to silence the critics of the cruel trade, the then Pope, Nicholas V, gave Portugal the right to continue its slave trade in West Africa provided that all who were slaves were converted to Christianity prior to
This page: The Baroque Igreja de Santo Antรณnio is classified as a National Monument in Portugal. Opposite page top: the view from the sea; below the statue of Prince Henry the Navigator that sits in the square named after him
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them being shipped to Portugal. The ‘Age of Discovery’ could now begin in earnest. Infante D. Henrique held the monopoly on all slave traffic until his death in 1460. Demand for cheap labour was growing in Portugal but the population was sparse and so the reliance on the slave trade grew. Portugal’s colonisation of its new found territories was made possible by the use of slave labour in the country itself. It is estimated that between the 16th and 18th centuries ten per cent of the population of Lisbon were slaves. The Marquês de Pombal would finally halt the slave trade in mainland Portugal in 1761 followed by Madeira in 1777. When Brazil became independent of Portugal in 1822, returning Portuguese were allowed to bring their slaves with them and it was not until 1888 that slavery was finally abolished altogether and Lagos’s relationship with the sea would continue down through the centuries even after the death of Henry the Navigator when the bulk of all the maritime trading houses moved to Lisbon. Recent archaeological excavations at a site outside the mediaeval walls of Lagos unearthed a mass grave of 158 African human remains, specifically of Bantu origin. That these people would have been carelessly buried outside of consecrated ground when they would most likely have been ‘Christian’ by the time they arrived in Portugal is tragic in itself but the disturbing fact is that the ground into which they were thrown was also, between the 15th and 17th centuries, the town’s dump.
The municipality is made up of four parishes – Luz, Odiaxére, São Gonçalo de Lagos, and União de Bensafrim e Barão de S. João. Each one of the parishes contributes to Lagos’s biggest industry – tourism.
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Above: One of the Algarve’s most photographed sites, the amazing caves at Benagil. Below, left to right: Pink flamingoes at the Lagos Zoo; Praça Luis de Camões in the heart of town; fishermen and their boats in the harbour
A very different picture Lagos today is far removed from its dubious past because it is a bright, easy-going, buzzing town. It has an authentic feel that some Algarvean coastal towns lack. Like its distant neighbour Tavira in the east, Lagos prospered from the tuna and sardine fishing industries. Alas, these industries have faded. The municipality is made up of four parishes namely Luz, Odiaxére, São Gonçalo de Lagos, and União de Bensafrim e Barão de S. João. Each one of the parishes contributes to Lagos’s biggest industry – tourism. The spectacular coastline of cliffs and rock formations are the main attractions as are the beautiful sandy beaches, many within easy walking distance of the town centre. In normal times and especially in the summer season, the beaches – particularly Praia da Batata – can be very busy but at this time of year they are havens of peace. Praia do Pinhão is a case in point. Perhaps the most photographed beach in Algarve is Praia Dona Ana and for sheer wow a visit to Praia do Camilo is a must. Further west along the coast the beach at Porto de Mós is broad and expansive and a little further west again lies the very picturesque village of Luz with its crescent-shaped beach overlooked by an imposing foreland of black rock. There is a trail from the village to the top of this outcrop that is worth the hike as the views from above are quite
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MORE SHOULD-SEES A R T : The Cultural Centre stages concerts (there’s an auditorium that seats 300) and everchanging exhibitions. A block away is Mar d’Estórias the place to go for delicious snacks, and to shop for artisans handicrafts and local wines and liqueurs.
The Municipal Museum, next to the Santo Antonio Church (itself a national momument), tells the story of the region’s past and is rich in artefacts and documentation. Worth a visit, too, is the Discoveries Wax Museum and, of course, the Slave Markey Museum.
M U S E U M S : There’s a fascinating science museum, Lagos Ciência Viva Science Centre, great for a family outing, with lots to see and hands-on experiences that the small ones will love.
ORGANISED T O U R S : An excellent selection here that includes walking tours with a local historian, boat trips to the caves, and dophin-spotting trips (you may just be lucky). THE L AGOS ZOO: Get to see 150 different animal species in naturalistic habitats. Penguins, pelicans, lemurs (you need a separate ticket to see them), emus, tamarins, reptiles and bats. Open 10am to 5pm, adult tickets €18, children €14. Take the A22 Sines exit. Head for Bensafrim and then Barao de S. Joao.
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Opposite page: The 17th-century Ponta da Bandeira Fort completed the defences of Lagos. This page, top left clockwise: New Year’s Eve celebrations; the narrow backstreets dressed for Christmas; shopping at Mar d’Estorias; the city gate to the old town
spectacular. Heading inland you reach the village of Barão de São João, home to a Mata Nacional or National Forest. It is a protected area comprising of a number of walking and cycling trails. There are various species of Mediterranean trees that provide shade in the summer months and importantly it is a safe haven free from hunters for many animals, birds and reptiles. The epic Via Algarviana hiking trail that stretches for 300km across the width of the Algarve passes through the village and it is also within striking distance of another trail, the Rota Costa Vicentina that follows the west coast for some 400 km. The small but busy town of Odiáxere in the east of the municipality of Lagos is often overlooked and driven through as it straddles the EN125. It has been occupied since the Bronze Age. The town boasts a good number of traditional restaurants, bars and cafés so giving plenty of opportunity for refreshments after exploring the area. In normal times there is a market that is curiously held on a Monday, the fourth Monday of each month. It is a proper rural market with livestock, farm tools and equipment plus the normal paraphernalia seen at most markets.
The nearby Barragem de Bravura is a dam project from the 1960s that formed a beautiful lake. It has marked nature walks, hiking and cycling trails and non-motorised water sports. It hosts a large variety of wildlife including two endangered species, the Boga, which is a small freshwater fish, and the Cabrera Vole, which is a large vole unique to Iberia. The area is also an ideal spot to observe the Monarch Butterfly. The species is native to the Americas and normally migrate from North America and Canada to Mexico in winter but they have made it to Iberia where there are large populations to be found and observed at the Bravura between the months of May and October. Returning to Lagos, there are many interesting monuments, sculptures and art installations dotted around the town. And as you would expect, there are plenty of places to eat – from traditional to new styles techniques and tastes. There are late-night bars (without the bawdiness) and normally one of the best New Year’s Eve parties in the entire country. This is no ordinary tourist town, Lagos has class and an accessible feel to it. Despite its dark, past it is a place worthy of discovery.
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Jane Rodenburg is a fibre artist who runs the wonderful Weavedeck classes and recently exhibited her own work at Vale do Lobo, including this gorgeous piece which is available now for €750. Another great present for your creative friends would be a gift voucher for a class at the studio in Loulé or even a home loom
PRESENT & CORRECT WE’VE BEEN SHOPPING AROUND AND LOOKING ONLINE TO B R I N G YO U A S E L E C T I O N O F G I F T I T E M S T H AT A R E A L I T T L E BIT DIFFERENT AND, IN THE MAIN, MADE RIGHT HERE ON OUR D O O R S T E P. G E T YO U R S A N TA S A C K R E A DY…
Something to make you smile with your tea or coffee (just make sure you drink from the side!). From Monsterzeug, it costs just €14.99. Visit monsterzeug.de/Zaubertasse-Liebe
Fragrant vegan-friendly handmade candles, from €14.99 to €69.99. Buy online at algarvecandlecompany.com or visit the warehouse in Boliqueime
At Martina’s in Loulé you’ll find this adorable ceramic seahorse by artist Sylvain Bongard. It is 30cm high and priced at €125. Every wall needs one of these
GIFTS PLUS
Bola Rei is the traditional Christmas cake, stuffed with fruit and nuts and glacé peel. Continente’s takes a lot of beating
Three bars of the best soap, Floral Toile by Portus Cale. Order at simpletaste.pt, or pop into the shop in Almancil. €23.50
Twiggy bits, baubles, cones and stars with a frosting of snowflakes. One to hang on the front door or to use as a festive centre piece for the table. The gorgeous gift idea from Kit & Caboodle’s Christmas shop. €19.95
Handsculpted ceramic doves by Guasparre Palma, €130 each, Corte Real
Kikkerland Gentlemen's beard kit with comb, beard oil and stainless steel scissors. €12.50
10 Scented plaster heart to pop in a drawer, from the Mathilde M collection at Ange Boutik, São Brás. Fragrances include Peach and rhubarb, violet, raspberry and white musk. €3.80
Want a gift for someone in the UK? Definitely decadent, this set of four martini gin glasses could double up as pretty little posy holders. Order at audenza.com. Pay in sterling, £39.95
Local artist Bernadette Martins, runs classes at Loulé Creativo that include tile painting. Get online and see what dates are available. Her charming little pots here are from €79
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If you haven’t discovered the Pedemeia shop in Faro, you’re missing out on family treats. The blokes' set of three pairs is €24
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Books that the kids will love
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Artisan jewellery designer Silvia Rodrigues is one of the four local talents in the Colectivo 28 project, a shared shop at the side of the market in Loulé. Her newest collection is in copper, with her signature swirled paper. This necklace, Colar Cassima, is €163. Check out segues.pt
Chicken for Christmas? This jolly metal chap stands 18cm high and is crowned with his own festive tree, Gato Preto €9.95
Own-made plum and apple chutney with a kiss of fresh chilli. 400g jar, €5, from the kitchen of Santa Maria Madalena in Olhao
09 Retro top that the little ones will enjoy spinning and watching the swirl of colours; the olders will be tempted to have a twirl, too. 12cm high. Kit & Caboodle, €4.95
Kiddies beanie with bits to wiggle. Made by hand by Ovelha Negra Knits and just €20. Email ovelhanegraknits@gail.com
Bond Cars, by Jason Barlow. A heavyweight book in every respect, packed with pics of those flashy cars €59.89
10 Wonderful Wonderwellies from the kingdom of foot comfort, FitFlop, and just the right colour for Christmas! €95 and you won’t want to take them off. Order at fitflop.com
THE ONE AND ONLY IVAN BY KATHERINE APPLEGATE, AGE 10+ Ivan is an easy going gorilla. He lives in a display cage in a Big Top shopping centre and video arcade and has grown accustomed to humans watching him through the glass walls of his domain. He rarely misses his life in the jungle but thinks about TV shows he’s seen and about his friends Stella, an elderly elephant, and Bob, a stray dog. But, mostly he thinks about art and how to capture the taste of a mango or the sound of leaves with colour and a well-placed line. Then he meets Ruby, a baby elephant taken from her family, and she makes Ivan see their home—and his own art— through new eyes. When Ruby arrives, change comes with her, and it’s up to Ivan to make it a change for the better. Kids will adore this story and you will weep as you read to them because it’s so tragic. This is about the environment, friendship, art, and hope that maybe one day humans will stop the carnage they have created. I CAN ROAR LIKE A DINOSAUR BY KARL NEWSON, AGE 3+ This is one of those wonderful children's’ books which will make you laugh, make daft noises whilst you read and generally have so much fun being a mouse! Obviously, you’ll ideally need a child to read it to but that’s a mere technicality! Little kids will love the funny illustrations and the interactions with the characters.
It's a wrap Much of the fun of gift-giving is dressing the pressie. Susan Jenkins of Kit & Caboodle, where the Christmas shop is spilling over with bright festive ideas, gives her top ten tips
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Quality paper is important; the
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Use matte sticky tape that can’t
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Make a fan with narrow pleats of
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Wrap a wide ribbon round the
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Add a line of lollipops along the
cheap stuff creases and tears. Recycled and recyclable papers are the way to go today. And if you are playing Santa and have a full sack of goodies to wrap, invest in a cast-iron tape dispenser so you’ll have one hand free to hold the paper in place.
use your imagination for the décor! Shiny baubles on loops of narrow ribbon, or a tinsel bow, or any little wooden hanging figurines, numbers or initials make a great finishing touches.
paper, fold it in half and tape to the top of the box, standing up.
box and fix in place. Cut a strip of the wrapping paper and tape on the centre so that there’s a border of contrast colour on either side.
a flower, or sprig of holly always add a great seasonal touch.
side of a box for a kiddie’s gift.
Take a look at the Kit & Caboodle selection of papers first – there’s everything from dancing gingerbread men to robin red breasts and reindeer. €2.20
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Never throw away left over scraps. Use them to make mini name cards, or little bows to decorate the tops of wrapped boxes.
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be seen. Better still, make a loop of tape and tuck it under a top flap to hold it is place, unseen.
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to tug to make ends meet, or needing to tape one end directly onto the gift itself. Always make a narrow fold at the end of your cut-to-size wrapping paper for a really professional finish.
C H R I S T M A S
C R A C K E R S AND CR ACKERS THE Y ARE – EVERY CHOICE ON J USTIN O ’ H A N L O N ’ S L I S T O F F E S T I V E FAVO U R I T E S F O R C H R I S T M A S D R I N K I N G . E V E N I F YO U R G AT H E R I N G O N T H E 2 5 T H I S V I A ZO O M , TOA S T YO U R N E AR E S T AN D D E AR E S T WITH TH E B E S T
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HILE COVID-19 continues to cast its ominous shadow on all things social and jovial with gatherings, fairs, fêtes and festivities on hold, it won’t get hold of Christmas. I simply won’t allow it. Christmas is a time to gather with our loved ones, share the festive spirit, eat and drink well, comfy clothes and elasticated waist lines, more bottles than sense, open fires and black and white movies, reruns of Only Fools and Faulty Towers. Like a child, at Christmas I spend weeks before the day, planning my Christmas wine list: what to drink when, who to open what with, like an achemist decanting red, chilling sweet and fortified wines to optimum temperatures, filling frappes for Champagne and other sparkling endeavours, never less than three glasses on the go. Swirling, swilling, pouring, refilling, twisting and turning, a decanter-laden dervish, fueled and fulfilled with my Christmas swill. I’m like an excited child once more, the release of every cork, like the unwrapping of a present. Christmas is alive and well with me and not even this surreal lead up to the season will dampen my spirits.
SPARKLING WINE
1 Soalheiro Brut, €12.50
Traditional Champagne-method sparkling wine from Vinho Verde. 100% Alvarinho, bone dry, a fresh and persistent mousse. Granny Smith apple and pear fruit on both the nose and palate. Fresh and minerally driven, everything we have come to expect and love about Soalheiro, certainly one of the best producers from this region. It drinks like good Blanc du Blanc Champagne and at a fraction of the price. Certainly this is an ideal way to start the day, perhaps over some oysters after the morning swim... or smoked salmon and Irish soda bread.
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RED WINE
4 Quinta Varzea de Pedra Reserva Tinto, €15
3 Quinta do Cardo ‘Siria’ Reserva Vinhas Velhas, €14.90 A high-altitude production from the littleknown region of Beiro Interior, with vineyard sites at as high as 750m above sea level. This is a winery closely working with nature, encouraging bio-diversity with sustainable and organic practices at the forefront of their productions. In this racey, high-acidity white, the use of French oak is apparent, but well integrated and a natural foil for the high-acidity always present in Siria. It reminds me very much of good quality barrel and bottle aged Chenin Blanc from the Loire Valley, This will stack up nicely against even the most clovey Christmas ham.
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5 Quinta do Basilia Super Premium 2011, €32 Grown on traditionally terraced vineyards in the heart of the Douro Superior region, this is as good and as affordable an offering at this level as you are ever likely to drink. There are a number of factors to that. 2011 is among the best vintages in living memory in the Douro Valley, top wines from this vintage are in shorter and shorter supply, the ‘old vine – vinhas velhas’ vineyards used for the Super Premium are over 100 years old, which is incredible. Couple this with the aspect of the vineyard, its location, schist soils and the unwavering patience of Carlos and his team at Quinta do Basilia and you have the perfect combination of elements, care and attention. This wine has intense and concentrated aromatic and flavour profiles, nine years of barrel and bottle age to soften tannin, integrate the many aspects of the wine and leave us with a wonderfully flavoursome and harmonious example of what really fine wine from Portugal can achieve and without spending a huge amount of money. Price to quality, it must be among the finest wines I’ve ever tried.
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It is rare for me these days to find something surprising as I considered myself quite up to date on Portuguese wines, such has been my focus these past four years. But it just goes to show… every day is a school day, and it is these wonderful new discoveries – constantly evolving flavours, hidden secrets and aromatics – that make the world of wine so wonderous. Carcavelhos is a fortified wine made a little further along the coast from Lisbon, dating back to the 14th century. This particular blend is made with Galego Dourado, Ratinho and Arinto, all high-acidity white varietals. The use of aquardente in the fortifying process gives an incredible brandyish quality to the bouquet, and heat and intensity to the flavour that is complemented by the persistent acidity, and stewed fruit and honey on the palate. Quite remarkable, unlike any other fortified wines I have tried recently. This is perfect to sip at the end of the evening, or to tip away at with some paté before your supper. Embrace the season, even if we can’t embrace each other. Fill your glass with Christmas cheer. Good food, good wine and good company – it can be as simple as that. Have a wonderful Christmas one and all. A Very Merry Christmas from me.
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All of the wines listed here are also available at retail prices for next day deliver y from No Contact C atering. T : 2 8 9 All 3 9 of 7 the 784 / E listed : n o chere o n tare a c also t c a available tering@ m a iprices l.com F B day : f adelivery c e b o ofrom k.co m Contact / n o c o Catering. ntactcatering/ wines at gretail for/next No instagram - @no_contactcatering
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Currently my favourite Portuguese white wine. As delicious as it is beguiling, one of a kind. A single varietal Sangiovesse, clones and cuttings taken from Brunello di Montalcino Italy’s most iconinc production of the varietal. This Blanc du Noir white wine, made from red grapes, originating in the Tuscan hills, grown in the Peninsula da Setubul is unlike anything I’ve ever tried. Crisp, dry, but beautifully balanced, the slightest hint of red fruit from a white wine is intriguing. I will certainly be going through a few of these on the day, it is in fact my must-have default wine now, incredible for food but just as good consumed on its own.
6 Villa Oeiras Carcavelos 15 year old, €35
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2 Herdade do Portocarro ‘Manda Chuva’, €14.50
Having covered this winery in a previous article, readers may recognise the name. This incredible cool climate blend of Touriga Nacional and Syrah, produced in the Lisbon DOC is always among my first selections. Rich and generous dark bramble fruit, winter spices, licorice, cinnamon and clove all present beneath the opulent peppery texture on the palate. This beautiful wine benefits from a little air, so decant it if you can. Hell, decant two… it’s Christmas!
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GALERIA CÔRTE- REAL is signposted from Boliqueime, Ferreiras and Paderne O P E N : T H U R S D AY t o S U N D AY, 1 1 A M - 5 P M
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THE COLOURS DAZZLE AND THE CONTENT DELIGHTS; LUCY D OY L E ’ S W O R K N E V E R FA I L S T O I M P R E S S . I T I S N O S U R P R I S E T H AT H E R D E P I C T I O N O F F A M I LY R E L AT I O N S H I P S A N D F R I E N D S H I P S A R E IN REAL DEMAND
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WORTH KNOWING Purchased by the Office of Public Works and displayed at Trinity College in Dublin, paintings by Lucy Doyle form part of Ireland’s permanent state art collection. One of the country’s foremost artists, there is a striking contrast between her depictions of serene scenes and her use of flamboyant colours. Lucy Doyle was awarded the Wilkinson Scholarship in 1979. She qualified with a BA (Hons) in Painting and Printmaking at Sheffield University and a Diploma in the History of European Painting at Trinity College, Dublin. Her work can be found in public and private collections around the world.
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County of Wicklow, artist Lucy Doyle produces rich, colourful and vibrant paintings. Recently commissioned by Galeria Côrte-Real, the Algarve gallery in Paderne, she has created a series of joyful pictures. Preoccupied with family life and nature these are themes that have resonated with her for more than 30 years. Surrounded by countryside that includes the Wicklow Mountains National Park, the valley of Glendalough and Lough Tay, Lucy Doyle is stimulated by her environment. The name ‘Wicklow’ derives from the Danish word Vykyngelo meaning Viking meadow. According to the popular song and Lucy’s varied palette, Ireland’s scenery is crafted from “40 shades of green”. Close to Lucy’s studio, Powerscourt Gardens is a floral feast, voted by National Geographic as the third most beautiful garden in the world. Azaleas, camellias and rhododendrons line the woodland glades and water courses. With so much to fuel her creativity, Lucy has developed her own artistic language. Her rich and textured application of oil paint onto canvas is a hallmark of her style. Making complex observations she plays with perspective, explores space and decoration, aiming to create timeless paintings.
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ASED JUST south of Dublin in the beautiful Irish
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S A N T O T I R S O
going back in time T H E H I S T O R Y O F S A N T O T I R S O R E A C H E S B A C K T O T H E E A R LY M E D I E VA L A G E S . I N 9 8 7, T H E F I R S T M O N K S O F T H E B E N E D I C T I N E O R D E R A R R I V E D AT T H I S P I C T U R E S Q U E S P O T A N D D E C I D E D T O B U I L D T H E I R F I R S T M O N A S T E R Y, A R O U N D W H I C H S E T T L E R S G A T H E R E D . J U S T NORTH OF PORTO, IT IS A WORLD OF ITS OWN
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HE LIVES of the monks and villagers who settled in Santo Tirso way back were determined by the seasons, the crops, and the water from the Ave River, the three defining factors that remain important today. Lifestyle may be different, but the beauty of the area remains.
The Monastery I go down through the steps and wellmaintained green area. I no longer look at the church from above but, rather overwhelmed with its Baroque structure, I gaze at it towering above. In 1098, thanks to Count Henrique and his wife, Teresa, who donated the land to the monks, Santo Tirso's monastery became the richest and most significant in the whole country. I go inside. The rows of wooden benches are empty. The echo of my steps fills the air. Polychrome statues hold their insignias, pointing their painted eyes up towards the sky or looking down, silently searching for believers.
Opposite page: The monastery São Bento is a breathtaking sight to behold, vast in size, intricate in detail. In the quiet it is a place to contemplate. Abover: river waterfalls in Monte Cordova
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such a view, a cup of strong coffee tastes even better than usual. The monastery is surrounded by a halo of nearby mountains. In the background, the Ave River heads to the sea. When the bell rings to announce midday, I close my eyes and envisage this place after Sunday mass, years ago, when families came here for their midday tea and pastel de nata. The whisper of the leaves swinging in the air recalls the rustle of long dresses that scrape the ground. Scattered conversations make this place vivid. Between a sip of hot drink and a bite of torrada, I notice that the pyramidal cupolas are decorated with white and blue azulejos. They shine proudly in the sun like they would give off signals of light.
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Called out by my caffeine addiction, I started my little tour in Parque D. Maria II. Designed in the 1870s on the edge of the hill, where the ‘modern’ city of Santo Tirso starts, it is decorated with branchy trees and a little pond, where ducks and geese enjoy an afternoon bath. For years, a charming gazebo has awaited musicians that used to give joy to the local people. Now, for most of the time, it remains only a beautiful architectural decoration and brings to mind the era of outdoor concerts where people could listen to live music, in the shade of plantain and Gingko trees. The sun is still very intense, but the yellowish leaves that crack under my steps foreshadowed the inevitable end of the summer. A teahouse located nearby gives the sense of the epoch and encourages me to rest on the terrace overlooking a spectacular silhouette of the monastery. With
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Te a h o u s e w i t h a V i e w
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Right: You will find contemporary sculptures not only in the museums, but in every park in the town. And Bronze Age ruins that are respected and cared for
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The glory days of the order of São Bento are still visible in rich and good quality polychromes on the vault, and gilt-wood altars, like the one in the presbytery where holy Mary, together with a small group of putti, is reaching the gates of heaven. I leave the church through the cloister. It seems to be forgotten. The surrounding area is very messy. Burned plastic candles disfigure the beauty of this place. Plastic bottles stuck in the niches of the cloister show that we are in a time when nature has been ruined by human behaviour. But it wasn’t like this before, when the Benedictines took care of this place. Their gardens and orchards were famous, as well as all the healing mixtures they prepared using only natural ingredients. They were trying to be independent from the outside world, yet never stored crops, preferring to give them to others. According to their idea of life, they fully trusted God, who was supposed to take care of them no matter what. What remains from the old life of the monks are forgotten gardens that wait to be rediscovered. I imagine them in full blossom, with the smell of ripe apples, sweet roses, and herbs that could heal most illnesses and soothe the pain.
On the bank of the river I leave the monastery and follow the road down to the river. It’s a perfect place to transfer to the world of calmness. On the other bank, the monastery, with its big garden, towers over the hill. After the bend of the Ave, a big vineyard stretches on the little hill, giving an idea of how this place may have looked when run by the monks. The vines have their first grapes, which have started to ripen in the sun. Little constructions that look like garden pavilions appear regularly on the way, providing shadow for grape pickers and giving them access to the fresh water from the river. On the water, an arthropod makes circles that diverge from its small legs, becoming larger and larger, then disappearing on the surface. In the silence of the late afternoon, the vineyards, rivers, and the monastery create an indescribable landscape.
Art of looking into the future While all around you can still hear the echoes of the old times, the modern era marks its presence on each corner of this town. Santo Tirso is dotted with over 50 outdoor sculptures, scattered around the city. Close to the train station is the building of Santo Thyrso Factory. It was created during the industrial revolution. As one of the biggest textile producers for years, Santo Thyrso was a place of hard work for seamstresses. In the '80s, the noise of spinning machines was interrupted, and the factory was abandoned. In 2010 it got its new shape. Nowadays, it's a creative centre, a space to rethink textiles, where youngergeneration brands such as less.buyless give a new, more sustainable approach to fabrics and fashion. Through the old memories of the town enchanted in the walls of the Baroque abbey, medieval cloister, and the romantic vibes of the D. Maria II park, Santo Tirso looks brightly forward. Surrounded by the trails in the natural areas, full of stunning wildlife, tied with the ribbon of the river, a spectacular feeling is created of a veiled yet progressive town which draws from its past, respects the present, and proudly looks into the future.
T R AV E L T I P S By car, from Porto, it is a 20-minute drive
A cab, a ride will cost between €23 and €28
By bus, it should take 35 minutes and cost €3-€4. With Covid-19 restrictions in place schedules may be impacted, so check in advance of travelling.
W H E R E T O E AT Alentejano O Cansêras is particularly popular, and serves are wide range of dishes including the most popular Alentejo specialities. Also in the heart of town is Restaurante 15, where the cooking is distinctly Portuguese. If you are driving it is worth heading for Maia, just 16km away – Don Forno and Tomar de Sal are among the restaurants worth a visit. W H E R E T O S TAY There are various options, from hotels like the 4-star Cidnay Santo Tirso in the centre of the town, and century-old quintas. Booking.com shows a good selection.
WORTH SEEING In addition to the Monastery and the Sanctuary de Nossa Senhora da Assunção, there are the bronze-age ruins which date back to the 9th century and are remarkably well-preserved; the Municipal Museum and its extension, the Museum of Contemporary Art where you can learn about the town’s contribution to the art scene – there is modern sculpture from international names in virtually every park – it is not for nothing that Santo Tirso calls itself the European Capital of Contemporary Sculpture in Portugal. The five-day festival that leads up to St Benedicts’ Day on 11 July is regarded as one of the region’s most important religious events. The streets are adorned with overhead decorations and there are church services, drum parades, processions, theatre performances and fireworks and in the evenings a series of pop and fado performances.
CONTACT US
+351 289 012 373 // +351 967 946 216 enquiries@casaverde-int.com QUINTA SHOPPING STORE 103 ON THE 1ST FLOOR 8135-024, ALMANCIL
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CHECK FESTIVE SEASON POINT
F O R G E T T H E H O L LY A N D T H E I V Y A N D A L L T H I N G S T R A D I T I O N A L A N D O P T F O R A C O O L A N D C O N T E M P O R A R Y A P P R O A C H T O H O M E D E C O R AT I N G T H I S C H R I S T M A S
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As ambassadors for outdoor livng, Dunas Lifestyle suggests dressing our terraces for winter with warm outdoor lighting by Gloster. Lounge outside in the sun with friends and family, long after the sun has gone down.
Nothing says Christmas like an open log fire, but piles of sculptural logs like these styled by Farmhouse of the Palms can look equally as chic placed in little corners. . Who needs shop-bought baubles when you can find them growing in your garden? Ta k e i n s p i r a t i o n f r o m C a s a M o d e s t a a n d create your own mini Christmas trees using minature lemon, persimmon or kumquat botanicals.
Hosting a (small and socially distanced!) dinner party or family get together this Christmas? Let Aude, the French Florist based in Os Agostos in Sta Bรกrbara de Nexe dress your table with her beautiful floral creations.
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Get creative with your Christmas tables. Find conversational pieces like these by local ceramicist Madalena Te l o i n M o n c h i q u e w h o u s e s f l o w e r s s h e finds in the mountains to create her unique pieces.
Introducing gold and brass makes a room feel instantly festive. Pair accessories with warm, ochre linens and natural pieces for a stylish feel perfect for Christmas in the sun, inspired by the wonderful ZĂŠ e Maria by Saudade.
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We love these fun tablecloths by Sara Speute inspired by our friends at @escolhido.co. Add a bowl of seasonal lemons, which are everywhere at Christmas in the Algarve, to add colour and a fresh feel.
Contrast neutral tones and textures that evoke warmth with decadent statement pieces. The talented White & Kaki duo say don’t forget that festive olive branch as the allimportant final touch. Go wild!
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Statement candles from Baobab at Dunas LIfestyle are so much more inviting than flashing Christmas lights that stop working after five minutes. And they bring warmth to a room. Choose one in festive colours to evoke that joyful feeling.
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A bit – or two – on the side E V E R YO N E H A S T H E I R FAV O U R I T E F E S T I V E D I S H B U T W H AT
RECIPES
F I L L E D O P T I O N S T H AT M A K E T H E P E R F E C T A C C O M PA N I M E N T T O
SW E ET A N D SOU R S P RO U T S W I T H CHEST N U TS A N D GR A PES SERVES 4 AS A SIDE 12 small shallots, peeled and left whole (220g) 5 garlic cloves, peeled and crushed 250g ready-cooked and peeled chestnuts 4 bay leaves 1tbsp maple syrup 130ml olive oil 90ml Shaoxing rice wine (or pale dry sherry) 60ml soy sauce 180g red grapes 800g Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved lengthways 2 green chillies, finely sliced into rounds 2tbsp rice vinegar 1tsp caster sugar 3tbsp parsley leaves salt 1 Preheat the oven to 160°C fan oven. 2 Put the first five ingredients into a 34cm x 26cm high-sided roasting tin with 100ml of the oil, 75ml of the Shaoxing rice wine and 2 tablespoons of soy sauce. Cover tightly with foil and cook for 35 minutes, until the shallots are soft but still hold their shape. Stir in the grapes, cover again with foil and cook for another 10 minutes. Remove the roasting tin from the oven, take off the foil and set the tin aside while you prepare the sprouts. Increase the temperature to 220°C fan.
3 Mix the sprouts with the remaining 2tbs of oil and ¼ tsp of salt, then spread out on two parchment-lined baking trays. Roast for 16 minutes, switching the trays halfway through, until the sprouts are browned. Add the sprouts to the tin of grapes and chestnuts, gently mix everything together and leave, uncovered, at room temperature for 1 hour, if you can, or at least 30 minutes, for the flavours to develop. 4 Meanwhile, in a small bowl mix the chillies with the rice vinegar, sugar and ⅛ tsp of salt and leave to pickle for at least 30 minutes. 5 Once the sprouts have sat for a while, stir in the remaining tablespoon of Shaoxing rice wine and the remaining 2tbs of soy sauce. Stir through the parsley and transfer to a large, shallow serving bowl. Top with the pickled chillies and the pickling liquid and serve.
WORTH KNOWING Something magical happens to the sprouts, chestnuts and grapes when they are left to soak with each other in a bath of Shaoxing, soy sauce and their own natural juices. A subtle sharp sweetness, with hints of bitterness, gradually emerges, giving the dish a real festive quality. The sprouts and chestnuts make this dish an obvious candidate for a Christmas feast. You can easily get ahead by cooking the shallots, garlic, chestnuts and grapes the day before and leaving them to sit in the liquids overnight (refrigerated). The sprouts should be roasted and added to the bath the day you plan to serve the dish. Don’t add the chillies and parsley until you serve.
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T H E T U R K E Y. . . O R C H I C K E N . . . O R R O A S T. . . O R F I S H D I S H
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of th e month ...
A B O U T T H O S E E X T R A S ? H E R E A R E A C O U P L E O F F L AVO U R -
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LEEKS W ITH MISO A ND CHI VE SA LSA S E R V E S 4 A S A S TA R T E R
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12 medium leeks (2.1kg) 300ml sunflower oil, for deep-frying 1¼ tsp cornflour 4 garlic cloves, finely sliced 1tbsp olive oil salt and flaked sea salt MISO AND CHIVE SALSA 15g fresh ginger, peeled and roughly chopped 1½ tbsp mixed black and white sesame seeds, very well toasted 15g chives, finely chopped, plus an extra tsp to serve 1½ tbsp white miso paste 60ml mirin ¾ tbsp rice vinegar The salsa can be made up to three days ahead and kept in a sealed jar in the fridge. 1. Remove and discard the tough outer layers of the leeks then wash the leeks well to remove any grit. Cut off and reserve the darker green tops of the leeks so each leek is about 22cm long. 2. Finely slice 60g of the reserved green leek tops into 8cm-long, thin strips. Rinse very well to remove any grit, then dry thoroughly and set aside. 3. For the salsa, pound the ginger and ¼ teaspoon of flaked salt into a paste using a pestle and mortar (or with the side of a knife). Put into a small bowl along with all the remaining salsa ingredients, stir well to combine, and set aside. 4. Half fill a pot (large enough to fit the length of the leeks lying down) with lightly salted water and place on a medium-high heat. Once simmering, add the leeks and reduce the heat to medium. Place a lid smaller than the saucepan on top of the leeks, weighing them down so they don’t float above the surface of the
water. Simmer gently for 20 minutes, or until a knife goes through easily but they still hold their shape. Transfer the leeks to a colander and stand them vertically so they drain thoroughly. 5. While the leeks are draining, put the sunflower oil into a medium, saucepan on a medium-high heat and line a plate with kitchen paper. Toss the dried, sliced green leek tops with 1tsp of cornflour. Once the oil is very hot (170°C if you have a temperature probe), add the leek tops and fry for about two minutes, stirring with a fork, until golden and crispy. Transfer to the paper-lined plate with a slotted spoon and sprinkle with some flaked salt. Toss the garlic with the remaining ¼ tsp of cornflour and fry for about a minute, stirring frequently to separate the slices, until crisp and golden-brown. Add to the fried leeks and sprinkle with flaked salt. 6. Arrange the leeks on a large plate and spoon over the miso salsa. Drizzle over the olive oil and top with the fried leeks and garlic. Sprinkle with the extra chives and serve.
MORE DELICIOUS EXTRAS, FROM OTTOLENGHI’S FLAVOUR (EBURY PRESS) €29.03 FROM FNAC
FOOD PLUS
TA S T E S
g reat ...
Tribulum IT M AY B E TH E N E W K I D O N TH E B LO C K B U T TH E D U O B EH I N D IT A R E TR U LY E S TA B LI S H ED. . . A N D TH E FO O D I E S ' FAVO U R ITE
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ET'S DEAL with the name first. A tribulum is a farm tool from Roman times. The owners of this stylish new eaterie, Jonnie Pratt and Justin O'Hanlon, are farmers on a small scale, growing their own herbs, fruit and vegetables... fresh is a vital ingredient in their repertoire. Jonnie, Executive Head Chef is five-star all the way and his passion, knowledge and experience are evident in every dish that comes out from the kitchen. Justin is the wine man, a sommelier of more than a decade who works closely with importers and local producers to present the perfect pairings. Backing the two in the restaurant,
stylishly wrought from what was Don Camillo, are Susannah Schofield OBE and Derek Thornton. There's a bit of 2020 history, too. Shortly after signing the lease, the world was plunged into global lockdown due to the pandemic and plans had to be adapted fast... and carefully. No Contact Catering was launched, delivering high-quality meals to clients at home. The venture was a big success – no surprise there – and when restrictions lifted, Contact Catering emerged and the focus was on the restaurant and the refurbishment of the building. Tribulum opened many months later than planned and is gaining attention and customer loyalty
FOOD Amazing flavours, perfectly balanced. Great cocktails
DECOR Relaxed and stylish; lots of artefacts that add charm
PRICE Starters €5.50-€13.50 Mains €13-€26; Puds average €4.50
T R I B U L U M , R . C r i s t ó v ã o P i r e s N o r t e , 8 1 3 5 - 1 1 7 A l m a n c i l / T:
289 397 784 / @tribulumalgar ve
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fast. Lockdown increased interest in food, and especially that from a acknowledged expert in good taste. OK, we've done the name, the people, the history. Now the menu, which is always adventurous, always defined, and always using the best from field to fork. Even the basic bread is anything but basic and comes with flavoured butter, carrot purée and pumpkin seed pesto. Among the line up of starters is roast beef marrow bone served with focaccia toasts and a wild mushroom cappuccino with porcini powder and truffle oil. Like chicken? you'll love the 'lollipops' with a side of truly delicious homemade sweet chilli sauce. But don't overdo it – the choice of mains is impressive and covers almost every taste and like. Crisp pork belly that comes with black pudding and apple mash; roast duck with roast fig and port wine jus; homemade pumpkin and cheese ravioli; orange and tarragon poached salmon. You'll want to try everything – the ribeye is spectacular and the lavender crème brulée not to be missed. Decisions, decisions... just book again for the following week... and the one after that. Currently the restaurant can seat 70; when restrictions ease, the capacity will increase, and with the 6,500m2 site, the boys already have big plans in place. Tribulum is open Tuesday to Sunday for lunch and dinner; the cocktails are a treat.
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‘The secret is using the best from field to fork’
Ta l k i n g
S T Y L E T H E E A S T A L G A R V E I S C E L E B R AT I N G T H E A R R I VA L OF A NEW DESIGN-DRIVEN FURNISHING STORE I N TAV I R A W H E R E A R T A N D D É C O R C O M B I N E T O P R E S E N T A N E W A N D I N S P I R AT I O N A L E X P E R I E N C E . WELCOME TO OLIVEIRA , AND THE DUO BEHIND IT
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FIRST OF ALL , WHO?
Oliveira is the vision of Lloyd Booker, photographer, from Manchester, who moved to the Algarve earlier this year, and Karen D’Oliveira, artist and art dealer from Middlesbrough, here since 1986.
W H E R E A R E YO U S O U R C I N G YO U R P R O D U C T R A N G E ?
Our view is that there is a fashion for mixing the old with the new. Therefore, we have also chosen to stock new items from the collections of fine Portuguese and European suppliers that perfectly complement our vintage pieces which are sourced privately and through dealers across the Algarve. And we can custom-make to our clients’ tastes – be it sofas, armchairs or those special accessories. The addition of original art available to purchase provides inspiration throughout the store. We hope to make new relationships with more Portuguese suppliers over the coming months; we are keen to support the economy of the country that we now call home. Excusivity is important to us. S O W H AT A R E T H E F O R T H C O M I N G T R E N D S A N D H OW D O YO U S H OW D I S T I N C T T H E M E S I N S TO R E ?
We do not follow trends, we make them! For starters, the majority of our vintage items are unique and our new items have been hand-chosen to complete each individual story. The store has been divided into styled areas that celebrate individual colour themes and furniture styles. On entering, you are immediately treated to a celebration in turquoise and natural woods. A custommade high-back armchair finished in sumptuous turquoise velvet is a
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Opportunity, creativity and... the planet! We felt the choice of good quality, stylish furniture and home décor was under-represented in the East Algarve and decided to change this ourselves. Our business provides three areas of appeal: our beautiful and unique restored furniture which we brand Vintage Chic; a Bespoke Restoration service where a client can ask to have one of our furniture items (currently unrestored), transformed into a piece that perfectly fits their room theme; and our statement-making, design-led new ranges, which we have branded Luxurious New – we felt it was not enough to offer only renovated furniture and saw the trend for mixing old and new and including decorative items such as lighting, textiles and seating as core to the Oliveira signature. We both have artistic backgrounds, so the marriage of art and artistic furniture renovation appealed greatly to us. It is also nice to be saving items of Portuguese furniture that, despite being high quality, have lost their appeal from a visual perspective. It is both our creative eye and our strategy of combining vintage with modern which we think will give us great appeal. That, and being based in the east Algarve, in one of the most beautiful towns in the world!
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W H AT M A K E S I T S P E C I A L … A N D D I F F E R E N T ?
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Singing the blues, from deep velvety blues to turquoises with their own glow, and accessories that accentuate both colour and line. Often, it is the finishing touches that form the starting point
real showstopper, and complemented by luxurious cushions, solid oak lamps and of course a stunning piece of original artwork from a highlyrespected artist. Our Moroccan area is rich in Arabian terracotta and deep tones, and you are immediately transported to a north African hideaway where distnctive features include dark wood furniture finished with bronze metallic highlights, super soft cosy throws, iron-framed mirrors and wonderful, brass caged pendant lighting. And there’s our fabulously indulgent black and gold area which shows off solid black furniture skillfully decorated with gold detailing. This looks like being a real winner... it is loved by those with a taste for the adventurous and the exotic. There’s a wonderful selection of designer cushions, too, and decorative vases, and ornate gold mirrors that complete this particular look.
blankets, made-to-order curtains and a superb selection of modern and vintage objets d’art. H OW D O YO U B E G I N W H E N YO U A R E A S K E D F O R OPINION AND DIRECTION?
Colour and coordination are key; from a colour palette any style can be created. We believe it is important to start with a central object that all other items – including wall colours – can be themed around. In our case we are extremely fortunate to have such an impressive collection of original artworks. These have inspired colour choices, textures and even furniture renovation techniques. In most cases we have chosen a piece of art and themed the room style around it, lifting accent colours out in both surrounding furniture, textiles, and lighting. PRICES - GIVE US A GUIDELINE
W H AT H A S B E E N T H E B I G G E S T C H A L L E N G E S O FA R I N G E T T I N G O L I V E I R A O F F T H E G R O U N D?
Finding the right furniture that fits with our vision has certainly been a challenge. There is a lot of used furniture available in the Algarve but we have been extremely selective about the items we plan to renovate, aiming to create pieces that are not only going to last for a long time but are also visually appealing and, of course, functional. WI LL YO U TA K E O N CO M M I S S I O N S TO C R E ATE A N E W LO O K , D ECO R ATE /FU R N I S H P R E M I S E S FRO M SC R ATC H ?
Absolutely yes! This is a big part of our new offering. We hope customers will love what we have created with our items of furniture renovation but realise we will not have everything that they are looking for. With that in mind we have built a large stock of unrestored items that customers can view in our store, then decide which colour scheme and style of restoration they would like for that item, which will then be customised to their requirements. To build a complete story, a total picture, we have a large collection of beautiful handmade rugs, modern and traditionally-styled mirrors, a range of stylish lamps and pendant lighting, luxurious textiles and those all-important cushions in rich velvets and linens, bed and sofa throws and
We are mid-market in terms of pricing. For example, our large, luxurious high-back armchair finished in turquoise velvet is priced at €895; solid wood lamps with stunning black faux suede shades are priced from €240; cushions, which are of the highest quality, start at €30 and our vintage collection of furniture ranges from a petite bedside cabinet priced at €120 up to a stunning three-door carved wood wardrobe priced €995. W H AT A R E T H E G R E AT E S T C H A N G E S I N TA S T E OV E R RECENT YEARS?
Well, we saw and see a huge trend for now is vintage renovation, following periods of minimalist contemporary design. At Oliveira, however, we really want to offer something different, hence our strategy of blending vintage with modern. S H O U L D H O M E D É C O R B E I N K E E P I N G W I T H T H E AG E AND STYLE OF A PROPERTY?
No, not at all, contemporary styling can work in an historic property if handled well, and vice versa. Combinimg old and new really works well. THE KEY THINGS THAT GIVE A HOME ITS PERSONALITY?
Colour, texture, form and in our view… art.
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Your Personal Landscaper DESIGN | CONSTRUCTION | MAINTENANCE
T: +351 289 397 165 E: info@cape-gardens.com W: cape-gardens.com
of the month
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PROPERTY
A BLEND OF CLASSIC AND CONTEMPORARY RE ADY FOR YOUR PERSONAL SIGNATURE ST YLE OF DÉCOR , A WONDERFUL HOME IN THE CENTR AL ALGARVE NE AR VIL AMOUR A Space and light throughout this modern home
Four bedrooms and four bathrooms
Separate guest house of one bedroom, one bathroom and kitchenette
Fully equipped kitchen Separate laundry room
Windows with double glazing and thermal insulation
Wood-burning stove in the living room
Garden with automatic irrigation system Underfloor heating and air conditioning. Water heating by solar panels
30 photovoltaic panels
Swimming pool with heat pump
Plot size: 9,243m2
Total construction area: 303m2
Energy certificate: C
Price: €1,150,000
Ref: R-RBO
T O V I E W : T: +3 5 1 2 8 9 3 0 1 2 9 4 / E : i n f o @ y e l l o w h o m e s . c o m / W : y e l l o w h o m e s . c o m
Here is a rare opportunity to create the environment of your dreams. You start with a wonderful lightfilled space and have the scope for inspired design that will give your home a special personality
PROPERTY PLUS
BEDROOMS
Five large bedrooms with fitted wardrobes
B AT H R O O M S
Five well-designed and spacious bathrooms
GUESTHOUSE
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The perfect place for your visitors to stay in comfort
POOL
ALGARVE P L U S
Swimming pool with heat pump
Vilamoura Office EN125 Benfarras Boliqueime 8100-068 Boliqueime T: +351 289 301 294 Tavira Office Rua Dr. Jose Padinha 178 8800-354 Tavira T: +351 281 320 281 AMI: 6232
AL O L PE W N IN TE R
Here to help 2020 has been a challenging year, but our currency transfer services are something you can always rely on. If you need to move money to or from Portugal, benefit from: Excellent exchange rates No transfer fees Personal account management Flexible transfer options Expert insights
Let’s talk currency Algarve office Ave 5 de Outubro, No 246, Almancil, 8135-103 +351 289 395 739 algarve@currenciesdirect.com
Find out more at currenciesdirect.com/portugal Š Currencies Direct Ltd, One Canada Square, Canary Wharf, London E14 5AA, United Kingdom. Registered in England & Wales, No.: 03041197. Currencies Direct Ltd is authorised by the Financial Conduct Authority as an Electronic Money Institution under the Electronic Money Regulations 2011. Our FCA Firm Reference number is 900669.
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READS PLUS
FULLY
booked
THE SALT PATH
WHAT A FLANKER
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By Raynor Winn Publisher: Penguin Genre: Autobiography
By James Haskell Publisher: Harper Collins Genre: Sports biography
I didn’t realise this was a true-story until I was about a third of the way through the book, then I cried. Blimey – this is a pretty incredible story of tenacious love, strength and taking control of your own life – doing your own thing without fear of judgement. Raynor and her husband are given the dire news that he is terminally ill, then just days after the diagnoses their home and livelihood are taken away. With nothing left and little time, they make the brave and impulsive decision to walk the 630 miles of the sea-swept South West Coast Path, from Somerset to Dorset, via Devon and Cornwall. They have almost no money for food or shelter and must carry only the essentials for survival on their backs as they live wild in the ancient, weathered landscape of cliffs, sea and sky. Yet through every step, every encounter, and every test along the way, their walk becomes a remarkable journey. A totally honest and life-affirming true story of coming to terms with grief and the healing power of the natural world. Ultimately, it is a portrayal of home, and how it can be lost, rebuilt, and rediscovered in the most unexpected ways. Tissues at the ready.
Towards the end of James Haskell’s utterly compelling autobiography is a section titled “No longer the dickhead.” The ex-England flanker explains how he was portrayed as a dickhead by the media throughout his career, encountered countless people wary of him for that reason, and yet when he retired he was submerged by a tidal wave of affection from the public. Haskell says: “One person wrote, ‘Why did it take for him to retire for people to be so nice to him?’ They had a point.” It’s why the book title, What a Flanker, is so perfect. It reflects both the image he was lumbered with – via subtle word play, more apparent when you see the cover – and a rugby talent that earned him 77 England caps, the 14th most by an Englishman and third highest by a back-row behind Wasps teammates Lawrence Dallaglio and Joe Worsley. A brilliant, funny, fabulous gift for any rugby fan.
ALGARVE PLUS
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BOOKS MAKE PERFECT CHRISTMAS GIFTS, W H E T H E R T H E Y A R E AC T UA L PAG E -T U R N E R S , E- READER EDITIONS , OR AUDIO BOOKS B R O U G H T T O L I F E B Y G R E AT N A M E S . D AW N H A S C H O S E N S O M E T H I N G F O R E V E R Y TA S T E AND TWO KIDDIES BOOKS WHICH ARE F E AT U R E D O N PA G E 1 8
READS PLUS
THE GUESTLIST By Lucy Foley Publisher: Harper Collins Genre: Crime thriller If you are a fan of Agatha Christie, you’ll love this book! Lucy Foley’s clever new novel takes us to an island off the coast of Ireland. Foley builds her suspense slowly and creepily, deploying an array of narrators bristling with personal secrets. Pay close attention to seemingly throwaway details about the characters’ pasts. They are all clues. In fact, this is almost like a game of Cluedo – very Colonel Mustard in the drawing room with a dagger! I can’t tell you any more without giving the game away but it’s fab! A proper oldfashioned murder-mystery.
LOSING MY INHIBITIONS
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By Olivia Spring Publisher: Hartley Publishing Genre: Chick lit Perfect for the beach – an easy holiday read. OK, let’s rewind, perfect for the sofa with a mojito pretending you’re on holiday –holidays are a thing of the past in the current climate! Roxy has finally got her groove back after a messy divorce. Her ex was controlling and manipulative and, along the way, she lost herself. A hot, younger man unexpectedly pops up and the timing seems perfect – after all, Roxy is single – but she’s been warned that he’s off-limits. So much so, that if she were to get involved with him, she would be putting her career and everything she’s worked so hard for at risk. Roxy repeated refuses his advances, but he is too charming for her own good. Will she put everything on the line for a forbidden fling? Funny, happy, daft escapism which isn’t a bad thing right now!
THE TROOP By Nick Cutter Publisher: Headline Genre: Horror Once a year, scoutmaster Tim Riggs leads a troop of boys into the Canadian wilderness for a three-day camping trip; a tradition as comforting and reliable as a good ghost story and a roaring bonfire. But when an unexpected intruder – shockingly thin, disturbingly pale, and voraciously hungry – stumbles upon their campsite, Tim and the boys are exposed to something far more frightening than any tale of terror: the human carrier of a bioengineered nightmare.
I’m far too much of a scardey-cat to read horror and I only read this one for you lot because I had to! It was so scary and gross and evil and generally exactly what you expect from a great horror writer!
THE LAST DAY By Andrew hunter Murray Publisher: Penguin Genre: Sci-fi Setting aside the science stuff (if you are an astrophysicist you may well be shouting at the author as you read), I loved it. The world has stopped rotating due to the close approach of a white dwarf star and the majority of the planet is divided into two uninhabitable zones – one frozen and the other sun-scorched. Fortunately for the United Kingdom, it exists in the temperate meridional strip, and now rules over stretches of western Europe with totalitarian ruthlessness. Ocean scientist Ellen Hopper, employed on a rig in the North Atlantic, is whisked to London by government operatives. Her former Oxford tutor has earth-shattering information to impart, but dies before he can do so. What follows is a taut, thrilling runaround as Ellen, aided by her ex-husband and brother, works to uncover her tutor’s secret while keeping one step ahead of those who will stop at nothing to discover it first.
THE DREAMER By Cliff Richard Publisher: Ebury Genre: Biography After seeing Sir Cliff on TV the other night I had to google and check that he really has turned 80! In celebration of his birthday and 60 years in music, he tells the story of his incredible life, published alongside a new music project. On Saturday 13 September1958, Cliff and The Drifters appeared on ITV’s Oh Boy singing Move It. Overnight, the 17-year-old Elvis fan with big dreams became a real-life teen idol, and Britain had its first rock star. Sixty years later, with a hit in every decade and over 250 million record sales, Cliff takes us back to 1950s London, where he exploded out of the skiffle scene with his new sound. From there he is catapulted into the British film industry, and goes on to conquer Saturday-night TV. We go behind the scenes of West End musicals, and around the world with him on tour. Cliff tells his story in his own words, through the toughest times he faced, to the biggest dreams that came true.
HEADLINES PLUS
HOME STYLIST
Don’t let the current situation get you down – if you can’t get to your favourite hairdresser right now, this might be the time for you to become your own stylist.
end, I’ve tested top-rated styling tools to find the best of the best so that you can recreate your own salon hairstyle at home. But remember this – when it comes to colouring you own hair be careful and get in touch with your hairdresser for professional advice on what to buy and apply! I’m focusing today on the most expensive brand, Dyson. The Chanel of the hairdryer world, the Dyson Supersonic hair dryer, €399, is a stylish beautifullooking tool. It took six years and 200 engineers to design over 600 different prototypes to get it perfect. There are choices of temperatures, speeds and magnetic click-on styling attachments for achieving curls, waves or a straight finish. It dries without using extreme heat, so it’s kinder to your hair and eliminates frizz. Then there’s the Dyson Airwrap. It’s €499 and worth the money especially if you spend forever drying and curling your hair every morning! It comes with various styling attachments – barrels, a firm brush and a soft round brush for fine hair. Having tried and tested the Airwrap, I do find that it works better on longer hair, especially when creating curls. The Corrale Hair Straightener, €499, is the new cordless flat iron that promises to reduce damage by 50 per cent and leaves hair with a glossy shine. Pop your Corrale in your bag so you can straighten your hair when and wherever you like and say goodbye to frizzy moments. I do recommend looking at the tutorials on YouTube because it takes a bit of practice to get the most from these great hairdressing accessories.
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HILE WRITING this December column, I’m listening to the Nineties music streaming from my television, now and then having a peek at the videoclips: Rod Stewart, Boney M, the Bee Gees, Lenny Kravits. Wow! Happy vibes, big parties and great hair styles! Totally different from our situation now. But can we let our hair hang down during a possible extended lockdown and maybe a lonely Christmas? Of course not, and I’ll tell you why. If we can’t reunite with our loved ones face to face, hugging, kissing and opening Christmas presents, then the only way to be together is virtual now we’ve got Zoom, FaceTime and Google Duo to interact with our families and friends and even find a Santa or two. This month I had the privilege to be interviewed and filmed at my salon by a Dutch television production crew making a programme about the Algarvian glamour scene. It will be broadcast in March in Holland and shows that life has to move on no matter what; we just can’t sit down and wait for better days to come. Don’t let the current situation get you down – if you can’t get to your favourite hairdresser right now, this might be the time for you to become your own stylist. Of course you need all the help and advice you can possibly get and, to that
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INVEST IN THE BEST IN ST YLING ACCESSORIES AND WITH A B IT O F PR AC TI C E YO U ’ LL B E A B LE TO WH I S K U P TH OS E C U R L S , S M O O T H T H AT B O B , A N D C R E AT E A L O O K T H AT I S Y O U R O W N . A D V I C E F O R S TAY- AT- H O M E S F R O M J I M VA N H E K
Fine cotton duvet cover and pillowcases edged in a double band of e m b roid e r y, teamed with the softest velvets with a band of sparkle
DRESSED
for bed
T H R O W S A N D D E C O R AT I V E C U S H I O N S H AV E M OV E D U P S TA I R S A N D TA K E N OVER THE BEDROOM . MEET THE WOMAN WHO SETS NIGHT’S SLEEP
Silvers and greys team together for a wintery treat made all the more special with a cosy throw in quilted textured velvet. Santa would be at home here!
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ANCASHIRE LASS KATHRYN Braidwood was Home Textile Manager of Dunnes' Salford store in the UK, so when she arrived here in the Algarve in 2007, she was understandably delighted to get involved with Yorkshire Linen. She soon became a franchisee, until she and husband Michael got into bed with their own venture, opening a group of Casa Texteis stores in Almancil, Alcantarilha and Carveiro, packed with beautiful essentials. In addition to a range of over 100 beds, mattresses and headboards, there’s every colour and combination of fine quality sheets and duvet covers, cushions and bedspreads, coordinating towels, and ready-to-go curtains, as well as a really wide selection of duvets and pillows. While white is always right – and here you can go from the perfectly plain to the designer-name embossed, embroidered and ruffled – the coordination possibilities are almost endless and, of course, what better way to give a bedroom a new look… perhaps for the adventurous, a weekly new look! Fancy a velvety black with a touch of gold, or soft pastels (pinks and greys are tipped to be the next big thing), or earthy tones and sand shades? You pick the palette and you’ll find option after option. We asked Kathryn and her highly-trained staff, led by Laura, to dress the same bed six times over to show what can be achieved…
PHOTOGRAPHY: DAN BIRCH
T H E S C E N E F O R A G R E AT
PILLOW TALK PLUS Every welldressed bed has to look stylish and inviting. A palette of golds bring out the glow
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Singing the blues with multi-stripes and plains,textures and smoothies. Pick towels and throws to complete the coordination
Deep and dark, this is statementmaking at its best. And the highlights of gold add a real richness
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Because of the size and demands of the property rental market, Kathryn ensures that certain items are never discontinued so, if a tenant damages or loses a towel, the same can be replaced immediately.
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Intricate pattern on pattern underpinned with vibrant plains is a serious dĂŠcor trend right now and aqua is one of the shades of the moment
When I first met ceramic artists who wanted to showcase their collections in my shop, I knew what I liked but had little idea of the complexity of their work and the processes behind the production of their pots and platters and bowls. And no clue whatsoever about clay or the glazes or even the timespan from concept to execution to finished piece. So, when I heard about a workshop in the old pottery in Loulé, I enrolled immediately, and a completely new world opened up to me. By the time I made my first pinch pots, I had learned about the different kinds of clay, about glazes and engobes, about firing temperatures and how to stock a kiln. But mainly I learned how impatient I am.
and friends and today, every now and then,
Now, two years later, I am the owner of
a less unattractive piece made by my own
a variety of ugly plates, some unround
hands finds its way into my shop and from
bowls (one for my ignorant cat) and
there into the home of a new owner.
a butter dish which looks more like an architect’s model of a building. But for me these pieces are unique and beautiful and I love every single one.
Rua 5 de Outubro nº 68 . Loul é . +351 964 222 612 Insta gram: www.insta gram.com/martina.loul e/
It took some time before I felt brave
Fa cebook: www.fa cebook.com/martina.loul e/
enough to show my work to family
www.martina-loul e.com
PEOPLE PLUS
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V I S I O N
CO N TI N U E D FR O M PAG E 8
DAWN ANNADALE Writer
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or tweaking courgettes. I am ridiculously proud of my tomato and chilli jam, the jars of figs preserved in red wine, a splash of port and a cinnamon stick. In essence, I’ve become slightly more jam and Jerusalem and considerably less Morticia Adams bag lady. Life has morphed from rat-race on speed to bra-less, lipstick-less sunsets with a glass of wine which is definitely a step in the right direction for this battered old soul.
I have emerged from incarceration as a bit of a model 1950s housewife. Trolley tokens and bags for life are no longer forgotten; jars of homemades line the shelves of the pantry
SUZI STEINHOFEL Design Works
Lockdown? What lockdown… The pools have closed! Eek. 7:30am Monday. I measure the condominium pool – 22 metres – that will do, and I alter all of my swim plans to that length. 2,508m of splashing drills three times a week – my neighbours think the ‘old bird’ in the middle of the block is quite mad – they whisper amongst themselves, eyes raised, but smile and wave to me! The weekend is here and I’m out on the bike (am I allowed?). Sixty kilometres all
by myself, not a car on the road and for the first time in my 38 years in the Algarve I feel as safe as houses. A GNR car goes by – we wave at each other. I guess then that this ‘athlete’ is good to carry on And then there’s the run. There are plenty of lanes and tracks around my home, but I decide to run 4km to Vilamoura, meet a friend, do a socially distanced set of intervals and run back again. Maybe 12km on a Tuesday morning is a bit too much…
I will revise that in the weeks ahead. A couple of weeks later and I’m bored, so decided to create ‘MyTri’, a triathlon just for me and even though is still chilly in the morning I get in the pool, do the 1,500m, jump out, get into cycling clothes and on to the bike. After 40km I’m back and finish off with a 10km run around Vilamoura. If this is lockdown life at 63 bring it on! This old bird has flown the coop…
LOVE TO HEAR WHAT YOU’VE BEEN UP TO. EMAIL SUSI@ALGARVEPLUSMAGAZINE.COM
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is definitely less cluttered with dead triple-A batteries and ten-year-old SIM cards. I have recycled, scrubbed, polished, sorted, filed and all manner of relevant adjectives, the entire house which has really been quite cathartic. And, I have discovered gardening. I always knew it existed, but, now I do it. There is immense tranquillity to be achieved in watering the garden for an hour each summer evening whilst having a chat with the aubergines
2020 – Blimey! When I was asked: “What’s been good for you about this year?” I must admit that I did raise my eyebrows just a tad! But, thinking about it, it’s actually been a bit of a journey of realisation and discovery. That sounds awfully deep and meaningful and it’s not quite that conscious a thing – more a light-bulb moment, or several of them. Having always been dreadfully disorganised at home, I have emerged from incarceration as a bit of a model 1950s housewife. Trolley tokens and bags for life are no longer forgotten; jars of home-mades line the shelves of the pantry and we no longer have a kitchen drawer of mayhem and mysterious objects. The house
PEOPLE PLUS
USCHI KUHN
President, Almancil Rotary International Club In July, we had the Rotary handover ceremony and my new challenge began. We introduced Zoom meetings, so we could communicate with each other and connect to the world. For me, and through Zoom, the world is getting smaller – I have been connecting with Spain, Holland, Italy, South Africa, India, Germany, America, Ireland, England … it is amazing. I have asked speakers to come to the club by Zoom with the most
interesting themes. We helped each other with ideas and brought together like-minded people, trying to help each other. I have been fascinated how the new generation has found new ways to help this planet of ours, develop new ideas and keeping contact with friends or offering new developments. Now we need to look forward, stay healthy, be thankful for each day we have, and remember that we all are sitting in the same boat.
I have been fascinated how the new generation has found ways to help this planet of ours
DEBBY BURTON President of Alerta, the Forest Fire Alert Association The year started for me in January, when I went to Lisbon to receive my British Empire Medal from the Ambassador; I had been awarded it in the 2019 Queen’s Birthday Honours list. Then life changed overnight. For some two weeks, every day was a pyjama day. Then I made a vow that every day I would do at least one constructive thing. I resurrected my sewing machine and started making masks for others and still do. I
am currently making patchwork quilts to auction for the Forest Fire Alert Association. In June, I started the ‘stay at home swimathon ‘, swimming a minimum of 1km a day in my 4.5m plunge pool. I finished on 30 September having swam 147km, equal to walking from the Vila do Bispo Bombeiros station to the one in Vila Real de Santo António. So far, from this, I have raised over €2,500 for Alerta.
We have had to change our thinking on fundraising and to develop more online events. Alerta currently has a Christmas craft market on Facebook, helping crafters and shoppers and ten percent goes to Alerta, and we are putting together a ‘Cook with friends of Alerta’ recipe book with tried and tasted family favourites. This year has made me realise that there is more to life than work and money.
first book, Living the Dream – in the Algarve, Portugal. It has astonished me how successful this book has been. It is part guidebook but mostly memoir of the story of our move here, and I am so proud to have a book with my name on the cover. I then went one step further and completed the sequel – Living the Quieter Algarve Dream was published in November. I have had the luxury of time during the lockdown to fine-tune my writing and learn more about the complicated
world of self-publishing on Amazon. And book three is already in the planning stages, a compilation of stories about other people who have made the Algarve their home. It has been a genuine delight to reach out to old and new friends and invite them to share their story. This year has been a strange one in so many ways, but I tried to use the lockdown to my advantage. Who knows what next year will bring, but I intend to keep writing and painting every day.
ALISON SHELDRAKE Artist, Author
The only two successful ‘A’ level subjects for me at school were Art and English Literature. It probably comes as no surprise to learn that when my husband and I moved out here almost ten years ago, I fulfilled a lifelong dream of becoming a professional artist. Since then, I have sold well over 200 paintings and recently completed my 100th commission. My palette and paints have been very busy. This strange year gave me the chance to realise another burning ambition when I published my
Ready now for the festive season, Deborah Goodman, head baker and co-owner at Olhão’s Santa Maria Madalena has created these Christmas Pudding Cupcakes. They’re house-made moist and rich, topped with orange and ginger fondant and a smile of caramelised orange. They happen to be vegan, too. 2.50€ each, or 30€ for a bakers dozen, they both melt in the mouth and keep beautifully. Santa Maria Madalena is next door and is the sister bakery to Kevin Gould’s Chá Chá Chá restaurant.
Santa Maria Madalena - Rua do Gaibéu, 24 - Olhão 8700-428 - Call 00 351 919 990 786 viva@santamariamadalena.co - instagram @santamaria.olhao
W E TA K E A L O O K AT A F E W O F T H E O R G A N I S AT I O N S W H O G O B E YO N D F I N D I N G A F O R E V E R H O M E F O R A P E T. M A N Y A R E V O L U N T E E R - B A S E D A N D F O C U S O N A D V O C AC Y, E N F O R C I N G A N I M A L L AW, C A R E A N D W E L FA R E .
A N I M A L S A N C T U A R I E S
THE Y PROVIDE A VOICE TO THE VOICELESS
in the algarve
Wo rd s :
C AT H Y L E I B M A N
ARA - ANIMAL RESCUE ALGARVE
Congrats to Anmal Rescue Algarve which has just picked up the award for Workaway Host of the Month competing against 50,000 active hosts worldwide. ARA is also the first host to have won in Portugal. Find more at workaway.info/en/ stories/2020-10/ animal-refugealgarve
Sid Richardson, owner of ARA has a dream. Moving from the UK to the Algarve over 20 years ago, he was a consistent and muchappreciated donor to animal shelters and welfare associations. Yet it was the rescue of two particular dogs that warmed his heart and set in motion the concept behind Cabanita, the first phase of ARA. With the troubling lack of social response to the 10,000 abandoned animals in the Algarve together with limited funding, Richardson, two years ago, built his own shelter. His aim is simple – to ensure the best quality of life to animals that arrive at the centre. There are two rigorous rules –
kennels must hold no more than two (except families) and all dogs must go on walks twice a day. This self-funded endeavour guarantees that canines are socialised, walked and prepared for re-homing. Volunteers are crucial for Richardson’s entrepreneurial and charitable work. Workaway is an online platform that gives animal-rights volunteers the opportunity to work at ARA in exchange for a meal and a place to stay. So what is the protocol for a new arrival? Animals are kept in quarantine until they are vaccinated, treated for diseases and sterilised, if adults. In the last few years, 100 dogs and 40 cats
have been the maximum that the facility can handle to warrant the dignity, respect and comfort that our fluffy and furry buddies deserve. Adoption requirements from ARA
At least two visits to the proposed adoptee at ARA Home inspection. Do you have the right profile and conditions to take care of animals? Proof of sterilisation at six months for puppies and kittens Adopted animals are always welcome back at ARA should home situations change +351 910 476 885 | 910 476 880 info@animalrescuealgarve.com
PETS PLUS
SOSAA – SOS ALGARVE ANIMALS
worth knowing
CANILSFA - CANIL SÃO FRANCISCO ASSIS The coronavirus has brought unprecedented hardship to people in 2020, and similarly has had an impact on the welfare of animals. Social distancing restrictions has led to fewer drop-in monetary and food donations and decreased opening hours. Lieselotte Clauberg-Kranendonk, co-founder of Canilsfa, and affectionately known as Mrs Lilo, can attest to this. Mrs Lilo opened the doors to her kennel in 1983 with five dogs and financial support from the Loulé City Hall and independent patrons. Today, close to 40 years later, that number has ballooned to 300 dogs, cats and horses. Historically relying on charitable initiatives though annual fairs and events, the current pandemic has decreased endowment significantly. Nonetheless, there are many canines happily wagging their tails in their fur-ever homes.
THERE are other charities and volunteer groups here working round the clock to deliver care to animals that have been left to fend for themselves, or mistreated. Among those recommended to us are AEZA in Aljezur, Benafim Dogs, Goldra Dog Santuary, Mayday Algarve in Vila do Bispo, Pravi and Friends Canil Portimao and Refugio dos Burros. We must stress the importance of recommendations from those who have experience of a particular shelter and of looking into the quality of the care offered at any sanctuary you may be considering.
With confinement allowing walking of pets, Canilsfa saw a noticeable increase in adoption requests. For peace of mind, Mrs Lilo’s team undertakes background checks for prospective adoptive families. Unfortunately, unsuitable families sometimes slip through the cracks, with dogs being returned with excuses such as personality differences between husbands and the new family pet. Animal lovers out there may think it could be easier to return the husband! Jokes aside, choosing to adopt a pet is an exciting time. Take your time to think about the breed – or rescue dog – that is suitable for your family together with the lifestyle you lead. Should you consider adopting a dog, be prepared to allocate time to train and provide its feeding, health and exercise needs. +351 289 416 862 | +351 919 765 600 Canil.sfa@sapo.pt
Q: What would co-founder Ginie of SOSAA do if she won the Euromillions Jackpot? A: I would donate €50 to each animal owner and pay for sterilisation of their dogs and cats. Although SOSAA was founded in 2010 by Ginie and two friends, she has been working with animal welfare for close to 25 years. Experiencing first-hand the abandonment and mistreatment of animals here in the Algarve, they decided to shift focus on providing animals with food and shelter to investing in sterilisation. This measure curtails uncontrolled breeding with the plan to minimise numbers on the streets and in shelters. They are currently working to sterilise all cats from Armona Island in conjunction with charity DPDSAA, a number close to 150. As the only organisation in the Algarve to undertake this capitalheavy project, requests are demanding and fund-exhausting. In October, 271 animals (253 cats and 18 dogs) were authorised for sterilisation. This is the highest monthly count ever, and in one week, they could authorise close to 95 feline sterilisations. This non-profit organisation also finds loving families and works on adoption abroad. Dogs will travel across borders fully vaccinated and sterilised to the Netherlands and German associations and foster families. With more rigorous controls of abandoned animals, these countries are the preferred destinations for animal welfare. sosalgarveanimals@hotmail.com
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Dogs of Portugal is a group of volunteers devoted to helping dogs and cats find loving homes. They do not run a shelter, but support the sanctuary Cantinho da Milu in Setubal. This is the brainchild of Gosia Nesterowicz, who 12 years ago used her connections to unite full-time professionals who believed in improving animal welfare practices. On Saturdays, DOP’s ten volunteers clean, walk pets and take photos to post across social media channels and their adoption blog. They are fundamental pawns in the animal welfare landscape. With stay-at-home protocols, Gosia has also seen an increase in re-homing with the premise that adoptive families will have more time to devote to puppies and hence the adaptation period will be smoother. On the flip side, sadly, donations have decreased and their usual bi-annual events have been cancelled. Regardless, Gosia and her team of volunteers are up to the challenge and, like Charles Darwin, believe, “The love for all living creatures is the most noble attribute of man.” +351 937 317 491 dogsofportugal@gmail.com
ALGARVE P L U S
DOP - DOGS OF PORTUGAL
JAN M TROMP CHRISTMAS IN LOULÉ WHERE In the Avenida WHEN December 2016 WHAT'S SPECIAL I like the layerings of lights – a little chaotic perhaps, but they work together TIPS FOR OTHERS Never forget your mobile phone (camera) when walking anywhere
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I M AG E S O F C H R I S T M A S P L E A S E … T H AT WA S T H E B R I E F. T H O U G H T T H E R E ’ D B E A C O U P L E O F S A N TA S A N D A F L A M I N G P U D O R T W O . B U T I T S E E M S I T ’ S T H E S PA R K L I N G L I G H T S T H AT I N S P I R E E V E R YO N E … A N D , O F C O U R S E , T H E F E S T I V E E AT S . T H A N K YO U AG A I N , A LG A R V E P H OTO G R A P H E R S ’ G R O U P
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CAMERA My always favourite iPhone, in 2016 it was the 7Plus
FRED BOS BOM SUCESSO WHERE Olhão WHEN December 2018 W H AT ' S S P E C I A L The reflection in the water TIPS FOR OTHERS Set your camera to manual and work out the correct settings CAMERA Nikon Coolpix P7800
PHOTOGRAPHY PLUS
VIET MUELLER B O A S F E S TA S WHERE Loulé roundabout WHEN December 2019
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CAMERA Fujifilm XT 20
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TIPS FOR OTHERS I used the 200mm zoom during a 5sec. long exposure; you have to experiment quite a while with several shots on a cold December night
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W H AT ' S S P E C I A L The sheer inventiveness of the displays
DARYL GABIN CHRISTMAS LOG CAKE WHERE My home WHEN Christmas 2019 WHAT'S SPECIAL: My wife's first attempt at baking a log cake TIPS FOR OTHERS The key to good food photography is to have viewers say to themselves: "I want some of that!". I was happy with these results and I know I had more than one slice! CAMERA Canon 5D mk3 with 24-70mm lens
THE ALGARVE PHOTOGRAPHERS GROUP Members of the group meet, under normal circumstances, at the Museu d o Tr a j e i n S ã o B r á s a n d s t a g e r e g u l a r e x h b i t i o n s .T h e n e w w e b s i t e – algar vephotographersgroup.org – will keep you updated on activities and m e m b e rs’ wo rk s a n d , wh e n lo ckd own is lif te d , e a ch n ew sh ow, wh e re yo u c a n meet the group, see their submissions, and vote for your chosen three favourite works . Check with the Museu on 9 66 329 073 to see when it is reopening.
HISTORY PLUS
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priceless P R E S E N T S NO ORDINARY JEWEL IN THE CROWN HERE WHEN IT COMES TO THE COLLECTION AMASSED BY THE P O R T U G U E S E R O YA L S . N A M E S L I K E F A B E R G É , C A R T I E R A N D P O R T U G A L’ S L E I TÃ O & I R M Ã O W E R E C O M M I S S I O N E D T O C R E AT E D O U T S TA N D I N G P I E C E S DESIGNED TO DAZZLE
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Above, left to right: Barbara Hutton in the tiara of rubies that once belonged to Princess Amélia; Princess Augusta; Painting of Princess Augusta by Philip de László. Opposite page: The famous Necklace of the Stars, made by Leitão & Irmão
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T WAS during the afternoon of 2 December 1910 that the Mafra did not belong to the dethroned monarch and his family. Most recently deposed Portuguese king, Dom Manuel II, visited of the crowns, rings, swords and daggers encrusted with precious the London premises of Carl Fabergé. Goldsmiths and court stones were sold and the revenue placed in the State Treasury. A few jeweller to the Romanovs, the shop was located at 48 Dover items, known today as the Portuguese Crown Jewels, were saved for Street in Mayfair. This was the first of many Christmas posterity and are stored at the Ajuda Palace in Lisbon. These consist shopping expeditions made that year by the young man. of the Crown and Scepter of João VI, the Scepter of the Dragon and Three months previously he had lost his throne but he had the Diadem and Necklace of the Stars. For security reasons these not lost his ability to shop. national treasures are rarely put on public view. Like the rest of his family, Manuel was In 1913 Manuel married Princess Augusta prone to extreme extravagance, a feature that Victoria of Hohenzollern in London. Lavishing THE WEDDING contributed to the fall of the Braganza dynasty. gifts upon his bride-to-be, they included a The Portuguese were a poor people, underpaid newly-created ruby tiara purchased from the LIST and overtaxed whilst the pleasures of the royal London branch of the Portuguese jewellers, Princess Amélia’s wedding gifts family involved large expenditure. It is no Leitão and Irmão. Internationally proclaimed made by the goldsmiths surprise that for years this trait had been heavily goldsmiths with a prestigious reputation, they Leitão & Irmão criticised by politicians and the general public. had fashioned jewellery for the Emperor of No one was more indulgent in personal Brazil and the Portuguese Crown. Augusta’s FROM KING LUIS: diadem of brilliants adornment than Manuel’s grandmother, Princess tiara featured the Cross of Christ, a motif that Maria Pia of Savoy. To mar her becoming the had been seen on the flags of Portugal’s famous FROM QUEEN MARIA PIA: Consort of the Portuguese king, Dom Luis I, he caravels. necklace of brilliants commissioned at his wife’s behest the Diadem Also on the occasion of their wedding, the and Necklace of the Stars. This world-renowned Dowager Queen Amélia generously endowed FROM PRINCE CARLOS: necklace of brilliants and sapphires set of jewellery consists of a diamond and her daughter-in-law with a diamond and ruby sapphire tiara and matching necklace. It was choker produced by Cartier. A wonderful FROM PRINCE AFONSO: one of many pieces especially ordered to satisfy portrait of Augusta was created by the court opera glasses, tortoise shell, Maria Pia’s vanity and love of beautiful objects. painter Philip de László. She is pictured gold and brilliants Photographs exist of Manuel’s mother wearing her tiara, the diamond and ruby Princess Amélia of Orleans wearing the same choker, a long pearl necklace and large drop FROM PRINCE AUGUSTO: diamond brooch Diadem and Necklace of the Stars. Other and ruby and diamond earrings. exquisite pieces of jewellery were given to Later the Dowager Queen fell on relatively her by her husband Dom Carlos I. Not least hard times selling some pieces of jewellery to of which was one of many wedding gifts, a necklace of brilliants the Woolworth heiress Barbara Hutton. Notably one of Amélia’s ruby (diamonds of brilliant cut)and sapphires. necklaces was reset by Cartier to create a dazzling tiara for Hutton. Manuel, his mother and grandmother fled from Portugal when One of the wealthiest women in the world, she already owned several the revolution took place. As a result of their unexpected and swift items that had once been worn by historic figures such as Marie departure, they were only able to take a fraction of their possessions. Antoinette, the Empress Eugénie of France and the emerald tiara It is as well that they had taken some, for when Manuel applied to of Princess Marie of Mecklenburg. Amélia’s rubies were in good the Republic to have them restored, the Provisional Government company when they joined the collection contained in Hutton’s ruled that jewels found in the royal residences at Lisbon, Sintra and jewellery box.
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established 1984
PINETREES CENTRO HĂ?PICO | RIDING CENTRE
GO MOVES
Off road riding through the Ria Formosa Forest Training from beginners to experienced riders wishing to prepare for competition, horse ownership or exams Riding gear included in the prices. Located between Vale de Lobo and Quinta do Lago Tel: + (351) 289 394369 | + (351) 919363190 riding@pinetrees.pt | www.pinetrees.pt Bev Gibbons, BHS Int. Teaching Certi cate Facebook: Pinetrees Riding
Association of British Riding Schools
A family-run business based in the Algarve. Full/part house removals with or without pack and wrap service. Collection and delivery service from any shop in the Algarve to your house. No job is too big or small. We cover the Algarve, Portugal, Spain, France and may consider other countries. enquiries@gomoves.eu 913 318 990 | 913 206 015
GO MOVES
TECHNO PLUS
HI FIVE T H E F I F T H G E N E R AT I O N O F MOBILE PHONE TECHNOLOGY ( 5 G F O R S H O R T ) I S G R A D U A L LY ARRIVING THROUGHOUT E U R O P E , A N D P H O N E S C A PA B L E OF E XPLOITING ITS NEW POWERS ARE L AUNCHING T H I C K A N D FA S T. M A N Y O F TH E N E W MODEL S ARE NOT AS EXPENSIVE AS CRITICS FEARED CH R I S PAR TR I DG E
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G promises to allow you to watch movies and play games on your phone without pauses or glitches wherever you can get a signal and will speed things up for people who work on long documents or big spreadsheets remotely. Ten times faster than 4G and a lot faster than broadband, 5G for some will make sense as a wifi replacement. It will be a good thing for all of us, even though many of its features are mainly aimed at making possible other technologies such as selfdriving cars, healthcare apps and the smart cities of the future. Right now, however, it has to be admitted that regular phone users don’t really need 5G… yet. But the arrival of reasonably-priced 5G handsets makes it easy to get the future today. If you buy your phones on contract, a 5G handset will come with the necessary SIM card, of course, but if you prefer to buy handsets SIM-free you will need a 5G plan from your network. If you have a newish SIM card it will already be capable of connecting to the system, but if not you may need a new one. Data on 5G plans usually cost no more than regular 4G plans, but you may find the system so quick
and convenient your data use may rise dramatically so it is good to keep an eye on consumption.
The quality is there… and the price is better Flagship phones have featured 5G for a while but at eye-watering prices. Now, however, the technology is filtering down to more reasonably priced offerings. The Nokia 8.3 5G has all you need for under €500. It has a big, crisp and beautiful 6.81-inch screen. The buttons include a fingerprint-detecting power button so you only have to press something once to wake the phone up, and a dedicated Google Assistant button that enables you to ask questions on life, the universe and everything instantly. Should you want to. The camera has four modules, a main 64 megapixel sensor, a 12-megapixel ultra-wide lens, a 2-megapixel sensor for macro images and a 2-megapixel depth sensor. The app features a Pro mode which enables you to shoot with the full 64-megapixel capacity – the standard Auto mode creates 16-megapixel images which are excellent for daytime snaps and don’t fill up your memory so quickly. Using the Pro mode allows you to zoom in on more distant scenes without losing quality. There is also a night mode
Above: 5G will make the biggest difference yet and for some will replace wifi. Left: Nokia's 8.3 5G has much to offer and promises to be the first choice of a big audience
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Motorola's Edge Plus, above, is in the mid-price range and has some excellent features. Check FNAC and Worten for prices, which often vary considerably
that enables atmospheric low light photos. The camera’s video capabilities are very impressive. The selfie camera packs a respectable 24-megapixels so quality is high for stills – and it dramatically improves pictures when video conferencing. No longer will you appear to be the only one at the Zoom meeting to be filming in fog. The 5G capabilities of the Nokia 8.3 are impressive for the price – most of the new frequencies are covered including some that are expected to be used in rural areas where coverage might be problematic. Battery life is good too – enough to power you for a couple of days between charges. And in addition, the phone runs Android One, the ‘pure’ version of the operating system with no unnecessary and memory-hogging additional apps, plus
Motorola has also moved into the mid-range 5G space with its Edge Plus phone, a lovely device with curved edges that not only look cool but can be set with arrays of touch points to control the device easily. In fact, ease of use is one of my favourite features of Motorola phones – a range of actions turn various features on and off. Picking it up automatically brings the time and notifications onto the screen before you power it up, and if you shake it up and down the torch switches on, which is surprisingly handy when you are trying to find the front door keyhole on a dark night. A twisty motion starts the camera so faffing about to get the phone started and the phone app going doesn’t cost you the shot you wanted. The main camera is an impressive 108 megapixels, with a 16 megapixel ultra-wide and 8 megapixel 3x telephoto. Like the Nokia, the Edge Plus has a full range of 5G channels. And all for around €500. The most notable stop-out on 5G was, until recently, Apple so the launch of the iPhone 12 was a big step forward for the new technology. However, being Apple, the kit is not cheap – the iPhone 12 starts at €879.99 for the smallest version, the Mini. A great phone, but not an impulse purchase. Tablets are only just beginning to feature 5G, specially for people who need to work around city centres where wifi availability may be spotty and not nearly as fast. The Samsung Galaxy Tab S7+ offers high speed connections as well as a great screen, good sound and the amazing S-Pen, a pressure-sensitive stylus
Data on 5G plans, usually cost no more than regular 4G plans but you may find the system so quick and convenient your data use may rise dramatically so it is good to keep an eye on consumption the joy of a promise of quick free upgrades to the latest versions as they arrive – Android 11 will drop in the next couple of months according to makers. The phone comes with a 3.5mm headphone jack, which is nice, but Nokia also has a really nice pair of Bluetooth earphones that pair perfectly with the 8.3. They come in a case which has a big battery inside, so they recharge themselves when not in use giving a total of 150 hours listening before the case itself needs to be charged. The stylish earbuds are waterproof, comfortable and, most importantly, pump out a good, rich sound. As is more or less standard, you can skip or repeat tracks and pause play by tapping one of the earbuds. No noise cancelling unfortunately, but this is reflected in the bargain price.
for handwriting and art. A gear piece of kit but pricey at about €850. The Huawei MatePad Pro 5G is a much cheaper option at under €700, but you don’t get the pen and, more importantly, you don’t get access to the Google Play Store so your favourite apps might not be available. However, if you want 5G on all your devices at reasonable cost, you could invest in a portable wifi hotspot. The Huawei 5G mobile router is a black box that connects to the 5G and regular 4G mobile networks and creates a wifi network wherever you are, so you can connect your phone, tablet, laptop and whatever to a fast internet connection. It also has a huge battery for charging your devices too.
DESIGN . ENTERPRISE
C O M M U N I C AT I O N
For every client brief there’s a design to meet the goals Branding Brand Strategy Naming Logo design Brand Identity
Digital Web Design Web Development Social Media Online Advertising Newsletters emailings
Brief: produce a be tting catalogue for art gallery event
Brief: Create a hardwearing but luxurious room directory
Brief: create upmarket brochure to case study projects
Brief: to update branding in line with company evolution
Graphic Brochures Catalogues Lea ets Advertising Stationery Outdoor billboards Stands Signage
Production Copywriting emailings Photography Printing Merchandising
Brief: logo evolution to maintain the equity of the original
Brief: create a harmonious sign system to locate villas
Brief: create a book to show the life work of an architect
Brief: create a new advert and refresh current image
designworks . t. +351 917 203 850 . design@suzisteinhofel.com . www.designworks.com.pt
PAST PLUS
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FRANÇOISE HARDY
W H AT E V E R H A P P E N E D T O … W H E N I T C O M E S T O T H E M U S I C T H AT WA S PA R T O F Y O U R Y O U T H , Y O U N E V E R F O R G E T T H E S O N G S O F B R O K E N H E A R T S A N D P R O M I S E T H AT Y O U L O V E D A S A TEEN AG ER . H E A R TH EM N OW A N D YO U C A N STI LL S I N G A LO N G , WO R D PER FEC T
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If you were a guitar-playing young woman in the early 1960s, you wanted to be Françoise Hardy. After her double-million selling hit Tous les Garçons et les Filles in 1962, the shy young woman with the long straight hair and the gentle voice came to epitomise French chic. Her music was a complete and welcome contrast to the bouncy British and American pop of the time. Françoise's herself had a difficult postwar childhood and she suffered a lack of confidence. She claims that she never expected to pass her first record-company audition. However, she did, and the result was a career in music which has spanned more than 50 years. She was feted by the pop royalty including the Rolling Stones and Bob Dylan. Dylan was said to have fallen in love with her and mentioned her in a poem on the back cover of one of his early albums. She later said that when they met, they were both shy and her English less than perfect, so that the great romance never happened! Françoise later found romance with French pop idol Jacques Dutronc whom she married in 1981. The couple have a son and are still married although she lives in Paris and her husband in Corsica. She has collaborated with modern artists like Britpoppers Blur, but maintains to this day that that “the songs we all remember are the sad, romantic songs”. Her latest album, Personne d’Autre, was released in 2018.
HELEN SHARMAN Sheffield-born Helen Sharman was the first British astronaut and also the first woman to visit the Mir space station back in 1991. Helen is a scientist who had answered a radio advertisement for astronauts two years previously, and was eventually selected from among the 13,000 people who had applied for the job. Project Juno was the first British cosmonaut mission and involved Helen in 18 months’ training at Star City in Russia. Problems with funding meant that the entire mission was almost called off, but in the event Helen was launched into space together with her two Russian colleagues on 18 May 1991 on spacecraft Soyuz TM-2. Two days later they were on board the Space Station. Helen spent eight days there, conducting assorted medical and botanical experiments, as well as linking up with curious British schoolchildren via radio. She returned to Earth at the end of the month. For a time, she says, it would take her two hours to go to the supermarket because everyone she met wanted to hear what it was like in space! Since then Helen has written books, visited schools – she is especially keen to connect with children – and taken on speaking engagements. Her current ‘day job’ is in the Department of Chemistry at Imperial College, London.
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Fabian, top teen idol of the late 1950s and early 1960s, became a pop star almost by default. He was barely 16 when he was talent spotted in his native Philadelphia by a local record-company boss. Coming from a working-class family with a father in poor health, a career in show business had never entered the young lad’s head. He originally agreed to help out with the family finances but now says his first record was “Horrible! I felt like a fish out of water!” However, his managers realised that he was so good-looking that teenage girls would scream at him anyway and he had a string of pop hits and appeared on American Bandstand. He was still studying in high school and when he graduated at 18, his pop career was effectively over. Like fellow idols Elvis and Pat Boone, he then moved into acting and appeared in many successful films of the era as well as TV shows like Wagon Train. By the 1970s he was appearing in ‘nostalgia’ tours alongside other hit-makers from Philadelphia, Frankie Avalon and Bobby Rydell. He now lives on an estate in South Pennsylvania with his third wife Andrea, and still performs occasionally. “I couldn’t be happier,” he insists. “When I’m home I ride the tractor and cut the grass – there was no grass where I grew up in Philly!” Fabian recently re-recorded his 1959 hit Tiger and gave part of the proceeds to a big-cat rescue charity.
Coming from a working-class family with a father in poor health, he originally agreed to help out with the family finances
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Do the games many of us remember from our playground days – skipping, tag, hopscotch, marbles, Grandmother’s Footsteps – have anything to offer kids in the age of Fortnite and Minecraft? It seems that they do. Traditional games involving singing, clapping, ‘counting’ in-and-out and skipping can still be enjoyed and some are given a modern twist which references popular stars and TV shows. Research published a few years ago discovered a skipping game where the accompanying song featured US teen TV star Hannah Montana… Hannah Montana, dressed in yellow, went upstairs to kiss a fellow; Made a mistake, kissed a snake, how many doctors does it take? However, playgrounds have changed. Health and Safety rules mean that hard asphalt surfaces have been replaced by something more child-friendly. Many have benches and tables for children to sit, eat and chat to friends, and sheltered areas for fresh air on wet days. Kiss-chase has gone right out of style for obvious reasons, and conkers are discouraged in some schools. It’s worth remembering that traditional games were thought to be under threat from more ‘modern’ inventions of recent years, but they have survived so far…
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PLAYGROUND GAMES
MADE IN
BRITAIN
FOR A TASTIER CHRISTMAS
To discover more, visit or contact: AGAbrรกs, Lda, Rua Boaventura Passos, no. 18, 8150-121 Sรฃo Brรกs de Alportel T: 91 781 2155 | E: info@agabras.com | W: agabras.com
EXPAT INFO PLUS
PROTECT AND GROW YOUR WEALTH W I T H G L O B A L E C O N O M I C U N C E R TA I N T Y, P R O L O N G E D L O W I N T E R E S T R AT E S A N D B R E X I T I M M I N E N T, I T C A N B E C H A LLEN G I N G TO M A K E TH E M OST O F YO U R M O N E Y T O D AY. L O N G - T E R M P L A N N I N G I S E S P E C I A L LY I M P O R TA N T S AY S G AV I N S C O T T, S E N I O R PA R T N E R , B L E V I N S F R A N K S
Know your appetite for risk When investing, you need to pinpoint the right balance of risk/return for your peace of mind, but it is extremely difficult to do this effectively yourself. An experienced adviser is best placed to ask the right questions and use appropriate tools to create a clear and objective risk profile for you before recommending an appropriate blend of investments. Remember: without some element of risk, you may struggle to outpace inflation and could lose money, especially over the longer term. Explore options for controlling risk, such as staggering the timing of investments to reduce exposure to market movements.
Identif y your timeline Generally, the longer you have to invest, the more risk you can afford to take. Time helps you ride out market volatility and benefit from compound returns. Understanding your time horizon is also the key to ensuring your investments offer the right level of ‘liquidity’. You never know when your plans may change – for example, needing to return to the UK for family or health reasons – so make sure you hold some liquid assets that can be easily sold.
can take diversification further by choosing an adviser who uses a ‘multi-manager’ approach, reducing your reliance on any one fund manager making the right decisions.
Regularly review your strategy Good financial planning is not a ‘set and forget’ exercise. Not only does everyone have their own unique set of circumstances, aims and requirements, these change over time. This may be the result of moving into a different stage of life, such as approaching retirement, or following a major event, such as receiving an inheritance. Or you could simply change your mind about what you want to achieve. External influences such as changes in the law or tax rules can also prompt a rethink. Review your financial planning around once a year to keep it on track, but make sure you bring this forward if anything significant happens that might affect the effectiveness or suitability of your portfolio. With today’s challenging and changeable climate, regular reviews are even more important to help control risk and encourage a positive effect on portfolio performance. To bring all these guidelines together, take personalised, quality advice from a regulated, locally-based adviser. With the right strategy in place for your life in Portugal, you can help protect and grow your wealth – in real terms – not only during your lifetime but for the next generations to enjoy.
D ive r s i f y, d ive r s i f y, d ive r s i f y The higher your concentration in one particular investment type or area, the greater the risk. Diversification reduces risk by spreading investments across different asset classes, geographic region and market sectors to limit exposure to any one area. You
All advice received from Blevins Franks is personalised and provided in writing. This article, however, should not be construed as providing any personalised taxation or investment advice. individuals should seek personalised advice. You can find other financial advisory articles on Blevins Franks' website
T: 2 8 9 3 5 0 1 5 0 / E : p o r t u g a l @ b l e v i n s f r a n k s . c o m / W : b l e v i n s f r a n k s . c o m
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To help boost real returns and protect your wealth for future generations, tax planning is crucial when setting up your portfolio. Look for arrangements that can shelter capital from tax while providing a tax-efficient income, and that enable you to pass wealth to your heirs with minimal bureaucracy and inheritance taxes. For expatriates, tax planning is complicated by having to work with the rules of more than one country. An adviser with cross-border expertise can ensure you meet your tax liabilities, in Portugal and the UK, while taking advantage of available opportunities.
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Customise your strategy It is crucial that your investment approach is designed to meet your particular circumstances and goals, including your risk tolerance and income needs. Are your financial arrangements tailored for your life in Portugal, where your expenses are mostly in euros, or are they better suited to a UK resident? Note that some UK savings and investments could attract a higher tax bill from 2021 once they cease to be EU/EEA assets. With an ill-fitting portfolio, you could find that your money is not working as hard as you would like, is difficult to access, or is even eaten away by inflation and/or unnecessary taxation.
Santa needs your help 16th Annual shoe box drive for the elderly
With your help our charity would like to make more than 200 elderly local people happy this Christmas with the Annual shoe box drive.
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Find an empty shoe box (most shoe shops are happy to give you one)
Fill your shoe box with a variety of lovely gifts.
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Decide whether your gift is for a man or a woman.
Wrap the shoe box and label for a man, women, or a couple.
Deliver wrapped shoe boxes to: Castelo de Sonhos; Silves or the Holiday Inn; Armação de Pêra, before 9 December 2020.
Gift ideas: Toiletries, body lotion, hairbrush, comb, mirror, woollen hat, gloves, scarf, socks, hankies, tights, sewing kit, torch, face cloth, tea towel, notebook and pen, ornaments, sweets, chocolate, cakes, biscuits (please ensure they are well in date). Do not include medicines. For more information please contact: Sue Butler-Cole T: 933 374 865 or E: sueloram@gmail.com
ADVICE PLUS
YOUR money
I will be moving full time to the Algarve in the next year, having recently inherited the family home in Salir. What’s the best way to deal with cars? Do I bring mine from the UK – it is around two years old – and what will I be expected to pay for the honour? I know car prices are much higher in Portugal but does the difference balance out with shipping costs and any taxes I would have to pay to bring my car to Portugal? Also, does a non-Portuguese car need an annual MOT equivalent and if so, where is that carried out? If you are bringing your foreign-registered car to Portugal, please note that you must not use your vehicle for any purpose other than tourism or loan it to anyone else during that time. If you intend to stay longer in Portugal, you must apply to the Portuguese Customs authority to have the car legally imported. You will be fined if you leave the country without your car. So, if a Briton (or other nationality) brings in a car and uses it in Portugal for more than 183 days (six months), then they should legally register the vehicle with the Portuguese authorities. Should someone be stopped by the Police driving in a foreign-registered car then the first thing they usually will be asked is how long they have been in Portugal. If
Email your finance questions for Ricardo to martin@algar veplusmagazine.com for inclusion in the first available issue of Algar ve Plus . To c o n s u l t d i r e c t l y w i t h R i c a r d o C h a v e s e m a i l r i c a r d o @ a l l f i n a n c e . p t
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they have been here for more than 183 days, then they will be fined. However, it is also true that it is much harder for the Police to prove that someone came into Portugal when they said they did, so this is up to the honesty of each individual. If a foreign-registered car is left in a public area and is reported as abandoned or the Police become aware of it, ie parked in a street or public car park, the Police will wait 30 days before impounding it. The PSP say that it is difficult and quite a lengthy process to fine owners of abandoned foreign vehicles so if, after a substantial amount of time, the vehicle is not claimed, then it is destroyed. However, if the owner returns and wants to redeem his/her vehicle they will have to pay a hefty fine which includes: a) An amount for not having registered the vehicle within 183 days (assuming it has been in the pound for quite some time) b) An amount for the tow truck service c) An amount per day that the car has been kept in the pound So even though it is unlikely that a Briton who leaves their car in Portugal in a public space and returns to the UK without it will receive a fine, it is highly likely that if they return to Portugal to claim their vehicle that has been towed away they will have to pay a substantial fine. Please note, however, that this does not apply if the vehicle has been left in a private garage or parking area, while the 183-day rule still applies. If you are moving to Portugal, the best way is to import the car and change the plates to Portuguese. You will be exempt from the import duties, providing the car is in your name for at least six months before moving to Portugal and you lived in the country the car is from for at least six months. You will need proof of residency in Portugal, the car’s documentation (all you have on the car that identifies your car and you as the owner) and proof that you have been living in the said country (receipts from supermarkets, restaurants, house payments, etc.) There will be a special MOT in Portugal during the process and again once the car has Portuguese plates. An MOT is then required after four years, then again every two years. After the eighth year, the MOT must be carried out annually.
ALGARVE P L U S
When the UK leaves the EU at the end of this month, what is the tax implication if you are Non Habitual Resident (NHR) here but have a home in the UK, bank accounts there and pay tax there? Several UK banks have announced that they are closing banking facilities for EU residents and this will obviously have tremendous impacts on a lot of clients. This is happening because UK banks will no longer be allowed to provide services to customers in the EU without the right banking licences. This is known as passporting, a system for banks in the EU which allows them to trade freely in any other state in the European Economic Area (EEA) without the need for more authorisation. You should seek for advice as your investments in the UK may also be affected by this. Regarding taxation, the Double Tax treaties in place should not change with Brexit and in principle will remain as they are.
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R I C A R D O C H AV E S O F A L L F I N A N C E M AT T E R S I S O N T H E PLU S TE A M A N D H ER E TO A N SWER YO U R Q U ESTI O N S O N TH E I S S U E S T H AT A F F E C T Y O U R L I F E S T Y L E O N T H E A L G A R V E . T H I S M O N T H , T H E C A R I S T H E S TA R . . . I F Y O U ’ R E P L A N N I N G T O I M P O R T
very cute door stop GARDEN GIFTS FROM
5.50€ 6.95€ 19.95€ 22.50€ D E C O R AT I O N S F R O M
2.65€
45.00€
Upcycled bedside table
D E C O R AT I O N S F R O M
3.75€
with oodles of ideas
for after Christmas lunch
High quality pre-loved and upcycled furniture and gift centre Browse: www.kitandcaboodle.pt Chat: 00 351 289 394 257 GIFTS FROM
2.45€
Email: sales@kitandcaboodle.pt Visit: Almancil, next door to Algarve Express
UK - ALGARVE - UK LOCAL – NATIONAL – INTERNATIONAL – WORLDWIDE
ALGARVE Algarve Express Transport & Removals Algarve Secure Storage Service Caminho do Cerro do Galo, 8135-028 Almancil, Algarve, Portugal Mob 00351 968807244 · Tel 00351 289 393707 sales@algarveexpress.com UK DEPOT BASILDON ESSEX Open for collections Mon-Fri 8am-7pm & Sat 9am-12am Mobile 0044 (0)7989 417625 · Tel 0044 (0)1268 723601
www.algarveexpress.com
EXC HANGE PLUS
LOOKING AHEAD
2 02 1 o u t l o o k
1. Explore your options While you might think using your bank to move money abroad is the easiest option, using a specialist currency provider can actually be more convenient and more cost effective. Leading currency providers can offer more competitive exchange rates than banks, and some don’t charge transfer fees.
3. Pick the right service for you No two currency transfers are the same and different services will suit different requirements. If you need to move your money straight away a ‘spot contract’ might be your best bet. This allows you to move your money ‘on the spot’ at the current exchange rate. Transfers typically take 24-48 hours. However, if you don’t need to move your money for a while but are concerned the exchange rate might weaken, a forward contract might be the service for you, allowing you to fix an exchange rate up to a year ahead of making a transfer. While you would miss out if the exchange rate strengthened you’ll be protected from any negative market movements. A limit order, meanwhile, gives you the ability to target an exchange rate stronger than the current market level. You set the rate you want to achieve and your transfer is triggered automatically if that rate is hit. Regular transfer services, on the other hand, can automate recurrent transactions (eliminating all the hassle) while currency wallets let you buy currency in advance and store it until you need it, speeding up future transfers. If you need to move money to or from Portugal in 2021 and want to make your funds go further, talk through your options with a leading currency provider.
2. Keep an eye on exchange rates The currency market is always moving and exchange rates can move by a significant amount during periods of heightened volatility. Keeping an eye on what exchange rates are up to is the
Currencies Direct has helped over 325.000 individuals and businesses move money abroad since 1996. It has an ‘Excellent’ Trustscore on Trustpilot, over 20 global offices and a team of more than 500 currency experts.
By January 2021, the UK’s transition period with the EU will have come to an end, and the pound could fluctuate as the UK adjusts to life after Brexit. Investors will also be fixated on the rollout and success of coronavirus vaccines. If the chaos and uncertainty of 2020 can finally be put to bed, hopes for a rebound in the global economy could boost higher-risk currencies. Additionally, Joe Biden’s first six months in office could drive USD volatility depending on the action he takes. Other areas to keep an eye on include central bank monetary policy and the German Federal election.
P r o t e c t yo u r t r a n s f e r s i n 2 0 2 1 If you’re going to need to move money to or from Portugal next year, what can you do to protect your currency transfers from potential volatility in exchange rates?
For more detailed information , please contact the loc al of fice T: 2 8 9 3 9 5 7 3 9 or register at c u r r e n c i e s d i r e c t . c o m / p o r t u g a l to get regular updates on the currency markets , ( U s e A l g a r v e P L U S m a g a z i n e a s t h e r e f e r e n c e) .
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best way to plan your currency transfer effectively, but not everyone has the time to monitor the currency market. Signing up to receive daily currency updates from a leading currency provider is the simplest way to keep on top of market movement. They’ll send you easy-to-digest news, helping you pick the right time to move your money. Some providers also offer a service called a ‘Rate Alert’ – you simply set the exchange rate you want to achieve and they’ll let you know by text or email as soon as the market moves to that level. You can set more than one rate alert at a time and there’s no obligation to move your money once your rate alert is hit.
ALGARVE P L U S
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N THE past 12 months, the currency market has been on a bit of a rollercoaster. At the start of 2020 it looked like Brexit was going to be the main catalyst of exchange rate movement, but by March the coronavirus crisis had taken hold. The first wave of the pandemic turned financial markets on their head, and the US dollar surged as investors flocked to safe-haven assets. The GBP/EUR exchange rate plummeted from €1.20 to lows of €1.06 as the initial panic set in, and in the seven months following the pairing only managed to recover to €1.11. Other factors inspired currency movement later in the year, including the hotly-contested US election and Brexit trade talks. But what could 2021 have in store?
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W H AT C A N W E E X P E C T F R O M E X C H A N G E R AT E S I N 2 0 2 1 ? JOSE ALMEIDA DISCUSSES THE CHALLENGES
THE agenda T H I S M O N T H ’ S S P E C I A L S E L E C T I O N O F T H I N G S WO R T H S E E I N G
A R T
CRISTINA BERGOGLIO Art Catto, Loulé On now
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Porto at Sunset, mixed media on canvas 100cm x 160cm.
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MANDA BEECHING Tavira d’Artes, Tavira On now Paintings and lino cuts showing Algarvian countryside scenes.
VENEZIANO
G A L E R I A C O R T E R E A L , PA D E R N E
Ceramics from this artist who is clearly focused on the bright side of life and brilliant vibrant colours. These pieces are from a large collection. MISSING PIECES
Please Help! For the price of a coffee... Your daily coffee costs around €1 or €2, perhaps not a lot for you, but collectively, a huge amount to the support our Bombeiros. ALERTA needs to raise €10,000, to secure a donation of €40,000 for a mobile oxygen tank filling compressor that will serve the whole of the Algarve and across the border into Beja. The Iban is below for a bank transfer and Paypal details for donations are available on our web page, follow the link below: IBAN: PT50 0033 0000 4549 9091 2130 5 Bombeirosalgarve@gmail.com https://algarvefire.info/donate-to-the-bombeiros AIL-ASSOCIACAO PARA ALERTA DE INCENDIO FLORESTAL NIPC: 514208295
IF YOU HAVE ANYTHING YOU WOULD LIKE TO SHARE
Fresco Gallery, Almancil On now Another collective that includes many amazing artists. This ink on canvas work is by Helena de Medeiros. 175cm x 158cm
DATELINE PLUS
M U S I C
M U S I C
FADO
, FA R O , 4 D E C E M B E R , 7. 3 0 P M Roubados, and the songs of none other than Aldina Duarte, introduce one of the most talented pairs in Fado, Paulo Parreia on the Portuguese guitar and Rogério Ferreira on the guitar, both brilliant musicians, in a performance that is inspirational – and thrilling. Tickets €12. T E AT R O D A S F I G U R A S
AMIGOS DE MUSICA
DANIEL KEMISH CHRISTMAS SPECIAL Teatro Lethes, Faro 19 and 19 December, 9.30pm
The story of the downfall of Portugal’s monarchy is told in a new stage play, The Great Pretenders. To be performed by the ‘random players’ in the spring of 2021 it stars Denise Raines as Princess Valerie, Natalie Galland as Queen Amelia, Colette Chisea as Princess Alexandra and Sue Ward as Queen Victoria.
PETER KAIN
Theatre News
Daniel Kemish returns to Teatro Lethes with his band and special guests, and promises two very different performances. The first, Acoustic, brings together old and new favourites; the second, Rock & Roll, includes Daniel’s classics and songs from his new album. Tickets: €12.50 for one performance, €20 for the two.
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There will be four Amigos’ concerts this month. Norwegian pianist Anne Kaasa will introduce music by Haydn and Beethoven in the matinee and also Chopin in the evening. Then, with cellist Maria José Falcão. compositions by Brahms, Chopin and Beethoven. To book, email reservasconcertos@gmail.com. For more information, visit amigos-de-musica.org
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Piano recitals Os Agostos 10 and 12 December
DATELINE PLUS
THE agenda E X P E R I E N C E S
Albufeira old town
Wednesdays, 10am Places in this free guided tour, conducted in Portuguese and English, need to be booked two days in advance. Meeting point is Beato Vicente Statue by the church in Largo Jacinto d’Ayet. Register at 289599 502 or by email turismo@cm-albufeira.pt
WALKING FESTIVAL
Now is its eighth year, this programme includes walks for all, workshops, talks, public art sessions, music, and good things to eat. Visit wfameixial.com for details
CHRISTMAS GROTTO Casa de Mondo, Boliqueime, 20 -24 December
something special
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Ameixal 5-6 December
A treat for the little ones that will make this Christmas stand out. In the enchanting hilltop Casa de Mondo, they’ll wander through a magical grotto and meet Santa and his elves (fully masked), who will have a gift for each child. Enjoy, not just a wonderful atmosphere, but some Christmas turkey with cranberry sauce (or a veggie option), a mug of mulled wine or hot chocolate with marshmallows, and extra little treats on the way out. €15 for adults, €7 for kids. If new restrictions come into force and lead to cancellation of the event, the €5 deposit will go to the Bombeiros Funds, ALERTA. info@casademondo. com to book. Visits are scheduled at fixed times to ensure all safety regs are met... and that Santa can get to see as many children in the Algarve as he can.
CHANTING CIRCLE
Vale do Lobo Auditorium Strauss Room 18 December, 4pm-5.30pm Chanting and music is something that goes directly to another part of ourselves, to the heart. “Chords and melody are just a holding of our own expression of being, our voice that wants to come out, and our emotions that want to be seen.” Get your tickets through eventbrite.com and take your own towel and mat and a soup spoon for a special exercise.
IF YOU HAVE ANYTHING YOU WOULD LIKE TO SHARE
DATELINE PLUS
E X P E R I E N C E S
CHRISTMAS LIGHTS AT QDL
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Eating out this Christmas While restrictions may change many times over between now and the year end, restaurants are planning special treats for the key holiday dates. And those who will be taking well-earned time out on the 25th and eve of the 31st, will be operating on all other days
COOKING WITH POMEGRANATES
Largo Prof Cabrita da Silva Loulé 19 December, 10.30am-3pm
In this Loulé Criativo initiative, Ana Figueiras will get you cooking Christmas Eve specials – shrimp with dried figs on carob bread with pomegranate; cod salad with pomegranate vinaigrette, and rabanadas with pomegranate sauce. This could be a great family experience. €30 per adult, €15 per child, €50 for families (2 adults, one child under 12). To find out more and book, call 966 789 387 or email hufiana@hotmail.com
Bird’s Nest has long been a real favourite and those in the know travel considerable distances for a special meal there. Open Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve, with à la carte menus that include the ever-popular twice-baked mature cheese soufflé with chilli jam and the slow-braised brisket of Irish beef in red wine with red onion mash. 289 365 471 Sandbanks on the Praca in Vale do Lobo will be open on Boxing Day with its muchloved à la Carte menus for breakfast and lunch. 289 398 429 Julia’s is open every day (except Christmas Day itself), and could well be welcoming people in on New Year’s Eve.
Whatever entertainment is laid on, it will be great! Call to check… and to book. 289 396 512 Tribulum has pulled all the stops out. Christmas Day fayre will include chestnut soup, spiced beef and plum pud with a real Jonnie Pratt twist. New Year’s Eve, is bells and whistles time with an elegant five-course menu and some special entertainment. Then, of course, there are the days in between…. 289 397 784 Vila Vita Parc in Porches embraces the festive spirit. On Christmas Day there is a fine dining experience at its Atlantico restaurant where diners can watch the chef at work. €45pp, 75pp including wine pairing. A special
tasting menu is available at the two Michelin-starred Ocean restaurant at €210pp excluding beverages. The New Year’s Eve offerings promise something truly special at both restaurants and also the other eateries that are part of this magnificent resort. See full menus and all prices online and get your booking in. customerservice@ vilavitaparc.com will answer any questions. A Quinta, on the AlmancilLoulé road, will be open Boxing Day with its first-class menu and there are bound to be new additions. If you haven’t tried the guinea fowl with wild mushrooms, this could be the time. It is an adventure in taste. 925 223 838
ALGARVE P L U S
Quinta switches on the dazzle while you can enjoy mulled wine, hot chocolate and festive music on the Plaza.
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Dano’s Sports Bar & Restaurant Quinta do Lago 6 December, 5pm
HUMPH PLUS
AND finally A G E H A S I T S A D VA N TA G E S – A D D E D C O N F I D E N C E , A D E G R E E O F S E C U R I T Y, A M U LT I T U D E O F G R E AT M E M O R I E S . B U T T RY I N G TO R E - L I V E PA S T E X P E R I E N C E S I S N OT TO B E RECOMMENDED ANTHONY MARTIN DISCOVERS
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HOSE IN THE circles in which we mix are normally of the same age group as ourselves. We may refer to ourselves as ‘being of a certain age’ – we certainly do not think of ourselves as old – although we are, of course, but the perception of old age changes as we get older, and the older we get the more likely we are to feel younger. Are you still with me? Wake up at the back. I have in the past heard myself say of a particular situation: “Didn’t enjoy it, too many old people”. And how often have you heard the phrases ‘age is just a number’ and ‘you’re as young as you feel’? We trot these aphorisms out whenever we feel put down because of our longevity, and we also hear them voiced by the younger generation when trying to humour us. But it’s true. We are as young as we feel. Just visit a beach restaurant at lunchtime on a Sunday and see us singing and dancing to music from the Sixties. We forget the arthritis, the replacement hips and knees. I have a photograph taken at a jazz evening in São Brás where an elderly woman planted her walking stick firmly on the ground and was moving to the music with the best of them. So I’m in full favour of hanging on to our youth as long as possible and I decry those who moan about their aches and pains. One man I know, well past his three score years and ten, has just bought himself a two-seater sports car – which brings me conveniently to the following... I was driving through Boliqueime when I saw her. Wow, she was still beautiful, just as I remembered. She hadn’t aged and she still gave me the same adrenaline rush. I jammed on the brakes and jumped out; she was parked at the kerb waiting. Immaculate, as well she should be, walnut fascia gleaming and her green and yellow Lotus emblem shouting from the centre of her wooden steering wheel; “Look at me, look at my lines, I’m a classic”. Her retractable headlights were on full show and my mind went back 50-something years to my model, almost identical except I, being but a callow youth, had fitted her
with two-tone air horns, put eyelashes on her headlight lids and rewired them so she could wink. Grinning inanely, I allowed the memories to slowly crawl out of whatever nook or cranny they’d been held in for nearly half a century, as the faces of my past passengers smiled at me through the windows. I was totally wrapped up and wallowing in nostalgia until another face appeared, but this one was outside the car, in uniform and looking in, also holding a notebook and pencil. Yes, I remember you Officer. Wonderful summer evening, roof down, Roehampton Lane, wasn’t it? You, looking me up and down and noting the long hair, skin-tight shirt, suede jeans and carefully knotted neckerchief. Your eyes were saying: “Flash git – thinks he’s the bees’ knees, I’ll show him, while your mouth, with the hint of a smile, was saying: “Evening sir, may I see your licence and insurance.” Oh yes, those were the good times. Trying to clear my head, I climbed back into my 11-year-old four-wheel drive, but I was still back in the ‘60s with a threemonth-old Lotus. For old times’ sake I revved the engine, turned on the radio and set off towards the EN125. Big mistake, the radio that is. It was playing Money for Nothing by Dire Straights. OK, that song arrived 20 years later than where my mind was, but the melody is woven around what is possibly the greatest guitar riff ever written. So, with a gently curving, traffic-free road ahead, I red-lined the volume, pushed my foot down and let rip. One hand on the wheel, the other playing killer air guitar and belting out: “Money for nothing and your chicks for free”. Yee Haa, I was back in the time. So far back I didn’t hear or see the white car with blue markings behind me. He overtook me and waved to me to pull over. I stopped. He stopped. He walked up to the car. He looked me up and down and his eyes said: “Sad, balding old git, trying to re-live his youth,” while his mouth, with the hint of a smile said: “Documents”.
I know what he was thinking... ‘Flash git – thinks he’s the bees’ knees’.