algarvePLUS - January '24 by Martin

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info@sevenquintas.com Centro O Tradicional - Almancil

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Seven Quintas Property Search Mediação Imobiliária Lda. - AMI 7490

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SUSI ROGOL-GOODKIND, EDITOR

+351 965 581 831 | susi@rogol-goodkind.com

C O N T A C T S MARTIN GOODKIND

KIM COLLEY

Publisher +351 963 146 398 martin@algarveplusmagazine.com

Art Director +44 (0)7973 426196 dk.colley@btinternet.com

(COST OF CALLS AT YOUR MOBILE PROVIDER’S RATE)

APT 1093, EC Olivas de St Ant (Loulé) 8101-904. Printed by Jorge Fernandes Ldª AlgarvePLUS is published monthly. 6,000 copies are made available through a hand-picked distribution network from Tavira to Guia, Almancil, the Golden Triangle, Loulé, São Brás and Santa Bárbara. Copyright 2023. All rights reserved. Reproduction of any written material or illustration in any form for any purpose other than short extracts for agreed review purposes, is strictly forbidden. AlgarvePLUS does not accept liability for loss or damage to any materials submitted for publication. Or claims made by advertisers. The views expressed by interviewees or contributors do not necessarily reflect those of the Editor or AlgarvePLUS. algarveplusmagazine.com

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Phew! Year end festivities done. Christmas lights off. Thoughts of turkey and mince pies shelved for the next eleven months. The start of a new year is always special here on the Algarve, certainly in the countryside where the fields are covered in a blanket of green moss, wild mimosa is blowing in the breeze and the almond trees are starting to blossom. Each day gets a little longer, and it’s beginning, already, to look a lot like spring! Putting this issue together has been a special pleasure as we discover more and more home-grown artists and artisans and learn about their chosen fields. Being able to follow a dream and fulfill a passion is what we all want but so many of us let other things – practicalities – get in the way of achieving that end objective. Finding those who have put their past and present on one side in order to create the future they want really makes you think, and consider the options available to you. Could this new year be the time for the start of a new chapter? This month we take to travelling – way out west, for starters, and then to some of the small villages that never fail to delight. All bucket list material, and so easy to get to. We introduce you to the best of Portuguese eats, a wardrobe of cool pyjamas to keep you warm, the properties you will want to read about, and the talents you’ll want to know. So much to enjoy when the focus is on all things Portuguese.

Welcome

Côrte-Real Gallery Simply the best in the Algarve

Join us!

TM: 961 528 679. Gallery Open Thurs. Fri. Sat. Sun. 11.30am - 4.30pm Email: algarvegallery@gmail.com - www.corterealarte.com

From the village of Paderne or Boliquetime

Follow Signs ‘Galeria’ Follow us on Instagram and discover new work on a regular basis.

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NEW THINGS PLUS

Jeans and a hoodie? No way when you can go stylish at Kozii with highly individual pieces that bring together weaving traditions and original handprinted farics. Shop Tavira, Olhão or Lagos. Koziishop.com

F R O N T COV E R : Weaving wonderful stories. Read about the amazing work of wool sculptress Vanessa Barragão, page 18

wish list WOW! There’s no other word for this attention getter. And no other look that could compete. From Zara, €189

IF YOU HAVE ANYTHING YOU WOULD LIKE TO SHARE, EMAIL susi@rogol-goodkind.com

Your move Check this one out. A

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beautiful wood and nickel chess set, 57x57cm, €850, from Equilibrio. Visit the elegant showrooms on Estrada Vale do Lobo, where you’ll be inspired by stunning furniture, lighting and decorative accessories. And do visit the adjoining art gallery equilibriointeriors.com Pantone’s Colour of the Year 2024 is Peach Fuzz that nestles between pink and orange, chosen to express a yearning for community and cosiness during uncertain times. Bunny, €34.90, from takatomo.de

Handpainted wooden pots from India, in different shapes and sizes, from Alamaya in Moncarapacho, open Tuesday to Friday, and packed with wonderful pieces. alamayadeco.com

ZIP IT Banana bag made in Portugal, in organic cotton canvas. Lots of colours to choose from, at Zé e Maria’s new store in Olhão. €53. @zeemariaolhao

Aude Touly’s new year’s resolution was to buy less flowers. But happily, this is one resolution that was made to be broken – flowers, after all, are her business. Check out some of her creations for weddings and special events @flowersbyaude And see how others are getting on with their promises for 2024 on page 62.

We found Bart Mooji at República 14, with his beautiful bespoke wooden door pictures, faithful reproductions of the originals. The detail is fantastic, taken from photographs. Bart will also make house signs, children’s toys – this man can do anything. Check out B_art_olhao

JUGGLING Handmade ceramic jugs in various sizes and designs all wantable. €29–€32, from Martina in Rua 5 de Outubro, Loulé.

NEW THINGS PLUS

TAVIRA - LAGOS - OLHÃO KOZIISHOP.COM

From L’OBJET come four new nogender perfumes that appeal to different personalities and/or moods: Bois Sauvage: like a walk in the woods after it rains. Côté Maquis: like strolling along the coast of Corsica, scenting the dry herbs and the saltiness brought by the tides. Rose Noire: the aroma of a rose garden at twilight. Oh Mon Dieu: a time travel to Paris in 1969 and the revolutions (sexual, artistic, political) that were happening there at the time. Smells of lipstick and brandy. Eau de parfums from €150. eu.l-objet.com/ pages/fragrance-collections

Keep the festive feeling going. In Lisbon, until 7 January, an incredible statement piece developed by artist and architect Joana Astolfi of Studio Astolfi will remain on show in the lobby of the Ritz Four Seasons Hotel. There’s a big wheel surrounded by tiny figures. And another piece, called the Letter Box where a large amount of letters – each embroidered by hand – seemingly fly around the place. Take time there to enjoy an afternoon tea with scones, and beautiful small cakes, or go for a cup of mulled wine or cocoa (made with Valrhona chocolate). A great close to the festive season. fourseasons.com / studioastolfi.pt

CMY

Catarina Gonçalves is a Lacobrigense ceramist who began her journey with clay in 2020, with the potter’s wheel her chosen technique. Working in the Loulé Criativo clay office, she produces contemporary pieces with a minimalist touch. loulecriativo.pt

ANSWERS PLUS

be aware of? We accept only four days minimum, but with certain exceptions. The owner must bear in mind that the house will be shared with travellers, and that they will be looking for practicality and functionality, comfort in both summer and winter, and a simple but refined décor that will make them feel at home.

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20 questions... O L H ÃO - B A S E D P R O P E R T Y C O M PA N Y L U Z D O A LG A R V E S P E C I A L I S E S I N R E N TA L S O F H O U S E S A N D A PA R T M E N T S I N T H E A R E A T H AT H AV E A S E N S E O F C H A R M A N D C O M F O R T YO U WO N ’ T F I N D E L S E W H E R E

1 Luz do Algarve, what exactly is it? We put charming house or appartment owners in Olhão in touch with travellers who want to spend a holiday in Olhão BUT in local restored houses… We are very close to our partners (owners and hosts ) and deliver premium quality services. 2 How did it start? We met Claudia Lichtenstein who started this business and was moving on. We visited her house and within five minutes decided to buy it. And that’s how Luz do Algarve began. 3 Who are the people involved and what are their roles? Bruno Barbier is head of administration and finance and has been working between France and Portugal with Caroline North for four years; Olivier Pereira is the local manager, and a team of three manage the check ins/ outs and housework etc. 4 What attracted you to Olhão? It is a wonderful place – the atmosphere of the town is special, authentic and simple. There is little mass tourism, many restaurants, nice people, and wonderful surroundings. 5 How many properties do you look after today? Currently 25.

6 Do you manage rentals for owners, or do you own the properties on your books yourselves? One is ours; the others belong to owners. 7 What’s the largest property you have on your books? Number 42, an exceptional six-bedroom house with vast outdoor spaces at different levels and a saltwater pool 8 And the smallest? Luz Corner House, a charming one-bedroom house in the heart of the historic centre. 9 How do you attract holiday makers? Through our website (luzdoalgarve.eu); Airbnb and our social media platforms, Instagram and facebook. 10 What is the average length per stay? One week. 11 Where are your travellers from? Mostly from France, Germany, Holland, Scandinavia, Portugal, and a growing number from America. 12 If someone is interested in short term rentals of their own property, what are the key things they need to

13 What do you look for in a property before you take it on your books? Charm, a house with a soul; and we need to be on the same wavelength as the owners otherwise it does not make sense to work together. 14 Do you spend time with your clients when they arrive? We spend an hour explaining the house, the town and its surroundings. They have direct contact with a link person during their stay. 15 Can you arrange for extra services, like car hire, tickets for events and tours etc? Absolutely, we have a concierge attitude like that of premium hotels. 16 Do you see growing your portfolio in terms of numbers and also locations? We began with five houses and now have 25. But quality is our priority at all times, not quantity. 17 How does the financial side work – do you get a percentage of each rental fee? Yes, that is how we operate. It is a very straight-forward proposition for owners and hosts. 18 What makes the properties you handle stand out from others? For all the reasons set out above. We have a high quality service with our houses, our owners and our hosts. We choose our houses meticulously. The owners have to follow specifications to present their property on our website. 19 Do you arrange things like weddings, and wedding guests? Right now we don’t have properties suitable for this but we certainly have partners who do. 20 Do you have a Luz do Algarve mantra? We certainly do... We believe there is always a solution, always an answer.

Co n tac t E: cath e r in e @lu zd o alg ar ve.eu / ol i vi er@l uzdoal garve.eu / W: l uzdoal garve.eu

PHOTOGRAPHY EXHIBITION

TERRA & 25.01 MAR FROM

João Mariano, “Guerreiros do Mar”

SAGRES

RISI N G U P TO 20 0 FE E T ABOVE AN D STE E PI N G I N TH E DE E P B L U E C H U R N I N G S E A AT T H E M O S T S O U T H W E S T E R LY P O I N T O F MAI N L AN D EU RO PE , SAG R E S IS A RU GG E D I M M E RS IVE M A S T E R P I E C E D E S T I N E D T O D E L I G H T N AT U R E L O V E R S , S U R F E R S , B E A C H C O M B E R S O R A N Y O N E E L S E S I M P LY Y E A R N I N G F O R A N A W E - I N S P I R I N G D O S E O F V I TA M I N - S E A

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GO THERE PLUS

A mythical place not named after the beer

AT THE EDGE OF AWE

It seems fascinating that this magical-feeling land has been inhabited since the final part of the stone age. While the precise origin of the name Sagres remains somewhat elusive, it is probable that its roots came from the Latin word sacrum, signifying ‘sacred’. According to historical sources, the area was of great spiritual significance and was once called Promontorium Sacrum (sacred promontory) by the Romans. As the last sheltered port before the open raging Atlantic, many Mediterranean sailors setting out with Far West commodities would arrive here and climb the promontory to consult gods and make vows. If you wander just a few miles from both main sites, near the tranquil Vila do Bispo, you will find a surprising number of Neolithic menhirs (vertical stones) still standing, some alone and others in groups and alignments.

The Fortress Within this gorgeous setting, the two most visited sites in town today are the one-of-a-kind fortress and the commendable lighthouse, both perched at the top of the same salty windswept cliffs that have witnessed much of Portugal’s nautical history. Both sites offer walks along the stunning dramatic coastline and in the midst of a space-like landscape of limestone rock formations from the late Jurassic period. The Fortress of Sagres was built on the orders of Prince Henry the Navigator and dates back to the 15th century. It is unique in that it was strategically and ingeniously built with only one exterior wall since the surrounding cliffs were deemed insurmountable by would-be attackers, often pirates from

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beloved Algarve, Sagres deserves to be set apart for its dramatic scenery, wild nature and gorgeous sunsets alone. But the unique allure of Sagres is also about what you will not find there: crowds and tourist-typical stuff found all over the rest of this sunny province. After just a 90-minute drive from Faro, you can step onto the barren, untamed splendour that was once thought to be the ‘End of the World’, and feel like you have just entered another era in time. The Sagres promontory has long held high significance for sailors, providing a sheltered haven where they could wait for favourable winds before safely navigating around Cape St.Vincent. Lining the southwestern edge of the ‘Parque Natural do Sudoeste Alentejano e Costa Vicentina’, this tranquil region today exudes a ‘hang loose’ meets ‘wild and free’ kind of vibe from the continual convergence of lovers of raw land and sea. Beyond gorgeous surf-worthy waves, you can find pristine beaches to relax on, birds to watch and photograph, interesting trails to hike along and tranquil roads for stunning, unhurried bike rides. Tip: Even in high season, the beaches and streets are much less crowded than further along the coast. While you are there, try to spot some white storks nesting on the face of these choppy cliffs as this is apparently the only place in the world where this happens.

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F ALL luring and romantic places in our

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This page, top: Sagres is a favourite with surfers; above: graffiti with a surfing theme... but still graffiti; left: the coastline in Parque Natural do Sudoeste Alentejano e Costa Vicentina. Opposite page top: Sagres fortress, entered through a single door; centre: freshly-caught fish, grilled to perfection; bottom: The Voice of the Sea installation

North Africa. It was from the fort that Prince Henry planned voyages and studied seafaring. He employed cartographers, map and instrument makers so that his captains might have the best nautical information to date. It was here that Henry spent a significant amount of time organising voyages which initiated what would become known as the golden era of Portuguese exploration. Much of the fortress was destroyed in the devastating earthquake of 1755, then later – some time in the 20th century – parts of the fortress were restored. Aside from the entrance and the cannons, what remains today inside the fortress itself are the former barracks, the small church and the giant compass rose measuring 43 metres in diameter. Since the 1990s, the fortress has been subject to architectural additions and renovations by the Porto-based architect, João Carreira. Though it has gone through many stages and changes since then, you will now find a Temporary Exhibitions area, a Multimedia Centre, some shops and a cafeteria. Since 2015, visitors can hear and feel the booming sounds of waves from a deep hole in the rocks in an impressive chamber of sound installation called ‘A Voz do Mar’ (The Voice of the Sea) by Pancho Guede. Tip: The entrance fee is just €3.50. It should take around one hour to do/see everything. Remember to wear comfortable walking shoes and make sure you arrive layered up as it is almost always windy and at least a bit chilly.

The Lighthouse Only four miles away, on what is considered the most south-western point in all of continental Europe, is the very powerful lighthouse of Cape St.Vincent which can be seen 35 miles out to sea. This guardian of one of the world’s busiest shipping lanes is also considered to house one of the ten largest optical lenses in the world. At this site, where Prince Henry once built the home he lived in, you will simply find a few souvenir stalls and a small cafe.

The Age of Discoveries and Maritime Legends With ancient stories about Saint Vincent’s remains being flown by ravens into the cape later named after him and beliefs like the sun sank into the ocean full of sea monsters, Sagres and its vicinity have to this day retained the feel of a magical place. And the rich navigational history and legends of Sagres make it feel timeless. One prominent local legend revolves around the supposed existence of a Nautical School and Navigational Centre in Sagres. While historians concur that there wasn’t an actual navigational school or nautical centre, at least not by modern definitions, Prince Henry did invite great minds like Magellan, Diaz, and Vasco da Gama to study with him, transforming Sagres into a focal point for nautical discussions. (Note: The centre of Prince Henry’s expeditions was originally in Lagos then later Portuguese voyages left from Belém, near Lisbon).

Hiking, birding and sea-ing Sagres Nature enthusiasts will find Sagres to be a sanctuary of biodiversity. The Parque Natural do Sudoeste Alentejano e Costa Vicentina, surrounding

GO THERE PLUS

Sagres, is a haven for hikers, birdwatchers and those seeking a closer connection to land and sea. There are many challenging hiking trails to choose from, including at least two long-distance hikes, the Via Algarviana GR13 route east across the country, and the Rota Vicentina, which heads north for 280 miles to Santiago do Cacém. Sagres happens to also be a birders’ dream. Every autumn, thousands of birds fly over this area on their way to wintering grounds in Africa. The yearly four-day Sagres Birdwatching Festival, considered Portugal’s largest nature event, takes place in the first week of October. Since shedding the ancient notion of sea monsters and a drop off into a big black hole, Sagres has steadily earned a reputation as a surfing paradise, attracting wave enthusiasts from around the world. Considered the capital of surfing in the Algarve, Sagres offers beaches, lessons and equipment rentals catering to all skill levels. For those arriving strictly for the sea but not surfing, there are also deep-sea fishing adventures ready to depart (with you) from its often overlooked scenic harbour.

Culinary Delights: Tasting Sagres Could there be a more ideal setting for savouring delicious Algarvian seafood cuisine? Seafood, fresh and abundant, takes centre stage in the town’s restaurants. From grilled mackerel and sardines to octopus and monkfish stews, the flavours of the Atlantic are showcased in every dish. You will wonder if your fresh meal was caught by one of the fearless fishermen you saw earlier on the cliffs. And you will

probably pair your meal with a glass of local wine or a refreshing Sagres beer. One thing is for sure: you will find that the culinary experience in Sagres is as rich and diverse as its landscape and maritime history.

The untouristy benefits of feeling (AWE-fully) small Finding yourself in the face of a grand natural wonder is one way to evoke a profound sense of awe in us. Along with amazement and reverence for the greater-thanusness comes the humble reminder that we are ‘small’. By breathing in the salty air and tuning into the natural symphony of waves and birds around you and feeling small, you will somehow end up leaving with some kind of clarity or a new perspective you might have been needing. In Sagres, time seems to stand still, allowing visitors to connect with Portugal’s maritime past while immersing themselves in the raw beauty of the natural present. Whether you're drawn to the historical landmarks, the wild and quirky landscapes, or the thrill of riding Atlantic waves, Sagres offers a timeless experience that is a refreshing departure from what we are used to seeing in our Algarve. So if you haven’t been – or if it’s been a while – bundle up one of your favourite humans and go enjoy something different and stay for the spectacular sunset.

MY WAY PLUS

In the nick of time

HAVE A DREAM. Actually, I have many dreams, but this one, I’m halfway through. The mission is to walk all the way across the Algarve. I started back in last January in the depths of a freezing cold winter. It was cold as we arrived in Vila Real de Santo António. The sun was warming up Spain a little more than Portugal at the time and eventually it picked up and illuminated the frost in the forest as we trekked through thick pine trees, wedged in between the town and the beach. We slipped past a camping cyclist and broke out into the wide open stretch of sand that continued all the way to the beginning of the Ria Formosa. It turned into a wonderfully warm day, spent jabbering away with my new buddy from South Africa, who had recently immigrated with his family to Portugal. This was definitely going to be a thing. My plan was to invite a guest and spend a day walking westwards from sunup to sundown and to see where we got to. Eventually, we’d reach Sagres and that would be it, end of mission. A few months later, my second day started in Tavira, where we had previously left off. My partner in crime for the day was renowned adventurer and global guide extra-ordinaire Charlie Perring. He has also written articles for this very magazine, interestingly enough. We led his dogs through the salty salinas, enjoyed a liquid lunch and managed to plough on to Olhão as the scathingly hot sun dipped down. It was a wonderful day spent walking through paths I had never been on, and through areas I had never travelled in my 20 years in the Algarve. Naturally, I was filming all these trips for my YouTube channel and we were showcasing some of

There is so much to explore – especially a walk out across the water-covered sand dunes to semi deserted barrier islands.

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N I C K R O B I N S O N I S R E A L I S I N G A LO N G HELD DREAM OF TREADING THE L AND F R O M E A S T TO W E S T TO D I S C OV E R T H E P EO P L E A N D P L AC E S T H AT G I V E T H E A LG A RV E I TS U N I Q U E C H A R AC T E R

the smaller towns that you may never come across in a cursory visit to the Algarve. Let me tell you, there is so much to explore – especially a walk out across the water-covered sand dunes to semi deserted barrier islands. The third day commenced before sunrise as usual, and involved a couple who had made YouTube their workplace for the past few years. Brittany and Drew have been travelling the world in their van and have recently settled down in the Algarve. We’ve kept in touch as they negotiated their full time move and it was great to set out on a canoe trip with them; I had organised with Aukai Va’a Canoe Club in Olhão for them to let us paddle out in their large Hawaiian Outrigger Canoe to Culatra Island where we would hike to Ilha Farol and jump on the ferry to take us to Faro. Technically, we weren’t walking the whole way but I really wanted to include the water world that surrounds Faro, Olhão and Tavira. It was a perfect midsummer’s day to showcase the Ria Formosa, and it sparkled like a diamond. The only sketchy bit was where the ferry driver gunned his engines at the last minute and we scraped over a sandbank. Thankfully, the ferryboat ridged up and slipped down the other side with no one any the wiser. Disembarking in Faro, we strolled past the castle, marvelling at the Moorish Gate where many seaweary sailors had entered after months out on the water. We had a healthy breakfast just off the square and waited for our next ferry out to Faro Beach where we commenced a ten kilometre walk to Quarteira. It was a hugely satisfying day and my thoughts turned to the next stretch. Where would I end up if I started walking from Quarteira westwards? Follow my YouTube channel to find out.

F i n d N i c k o n Yo uTu b e / J o i n A l g a r v e A d d i c t s Fa c e b o o k G r o u p / D i s c ove r m o r e a t a l g a r ve a d d i c t s . c o m

Flying into

ArtCatto wishes everyone a Happy New Year

Resinglass, Murano Glass, Paper, Ink and Ash

Dreamcatcher Blue Door

140 cm x 140 cm x 15 cm

www.artcatto.com Avenida José da Costa Mealha nº43 8100-500 Loulé | +351 289 419 447 | info@artcatto.com

L AT E R T H I S M O N T H , A N A S T O N I S H I N G E X H I B I T I O N O F T H E W O R K O F I N T E R N AT I O N A L LY - A C C L A I M E D A R T I S T VA N E S S A B A R R A G Ã O O P E N S I N T H E L A G O S C U LT U R A L C E N T R E . T H I S I S O N E T H AT W I L L M A K E Y O U A P P R E C I AT E T R U E TA L E N T , A N D H E A R T F E LT P A S S I O N

submerged immersed

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HUGO MACEDO

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ART PLUS

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SK VANESSA well known to a massive audience and are

Barragão about her vision and she will say: “As an artist, I’m interested in creating an inner world, a moment for reflection and calm. Through an exploration of material and space I want to present a moment in time, abstracted and far removed from the global chaos and confusion.” And that will give you an indication of her uncompromising attitude to her work and its message. Vanessa was born in Albufeira in 1992 where she spent her early years exploring the abundant coastline of the Algarve, leading to a profound connection to the Ocean. She achieved a Masters degree in fashion and textile design at Lisbon University, exploring the possibilities of yarn and tapestries with an interest in sustainability and ecology. Today, Vanessa works in an innovative way with recycled dead yarn stock and creates an ongoing awareness of our fragile environment and ecosystem. In 2016, she relocated to Porto, the traditional home of the textile industry in Portugal, where she honed her artisanal skills working as a designer in a rug factory whilst developing her own projects and pieces. She now works out of an industrial studio in her hometown of Albufeira. Vanessa’s labour-intensive and exquisitely crafted tapestries, rugs and wall hangings are

fabricated using various textile techniques, such as latch hook, crochet, felt, weaving and fibre manipulation. For this recent series of work, which will go on show in Lagos, Vanessa has been developing her practice to create artworks that are more sculptural – exceptional pieces that can be experienced ‘in the round’. They are three-dimensional oval forms, which are suspended with long fabric elements hanging down. In addition, Vanessa has incorporated metalwork wrapped in fabric. These organic branch-like structures respond and interact with the forms, creating a visual language which moves her art beyond the tapestries and wall hangings. The metal twisted ‘branches’ are reminiscent of dead or dying coral. Vanessa adds constructed seaweed ‘leaves’ that are limp and faded, yet these outgrowths still have ‘life’ or the potential for renewal.

Record-breaking land and sea temperature will probably cause “unprecedented mass coral bleaching and mortality”, according to pioneering coral scientist, Prof Ove Hoegh-Guldberg. As coral reefs bleach and die, the habitats on which many associated reef species depend disappear, leading to ecosystem collapse, which could undermine as much as 25% of ocean biodiversity. Vanessa explains the origins of her inspiration: “In my childhood, I used to travel a lot with my parents to the Caribbean, where I was so excited at seeing – for the first-time – coral reefs in Jamaica. This experience stays in my mind like a photograph. All the colours and life present there was the most impressive and beautiful thing I have ever seen. Year after year we used to travel to this area of Caribbean Sea and the degradation of the coral reefs was more in evidence every time we visited. The corals losing their colours and the loss of biodiversity in the area troubled me greatly.”

This particular inspiration

The exhibition

The source material for this series is the underwater natural world, the threatened coral reefs which are the first indicators of climate change. The polyps which bleach when the algae (zooxanthellae) are expelled due to various stressors, such as changes in temperature, light, or nutrients.

Part of the title of this exhibition refers to this ‘submerged’ world, unseen and often ignored yet essential to the food chain and life as we know it on earth. It may also refer to the internal world of the artist and by extension the viewer; the idea of the artist exploring the uncharted and the unknown realm of the imagination, a deep dive into the subconscious and the creative process. Vanessa’s pieces are recognisable as organic forms, but there is something fantastical to the work, an otherworldliness. They appear almost alien, from another planet, like the strange species and creatures found in the depths of the oceans. Vanessa resists a literal representation of the natural world in favour of a more abstracted interpretation. The colours, the pattern and composition rendered in textile and metalwork can been appreciated as a complete artwork, whereby nothing can be added or removed. The pieces exist independently yet can form part of a larger installation, a spatial relationship, an interconnectivity that relates to our eco-system at large. The ‘Immersed’ aspect of the title refers not only to the submarine but also to the artistic process and ultimately to the exhibition experience itself. The methodical technique of production, the demand of the material means that Vanessa

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is completely absorbed and engaged with each creation. There is a meditative quality to required repetition of the various parts in the creation of the whole. This is a timeconsuming procedure, there are no short cuts. Practice and patience being vital to the making. The overall effect is mesmerising. An enchanted aquatic microcosm, whereby the visitor to the exhibition is transported into an enthralling universe, a place of wonder and intrigue.

World class Vanessa Barragão – for a young artist and in relatively short space of time – has built up an impressive list of international exhibitions and her pieces are to be found in important collections with numerous celebrities taking note of her incredible work. She has a staggering number of Instagram followers (576K, @vanessabarragao_work), which enables her to have a global reach as many people are intrigued to see her artwork develop virtually in real time. She has spawned many ‘copycats’ and imitators, for as Oscar Wilde wisely noted “imitation is the sincerest form of flattery that mediocrity can pay to greatness”. In spite of her international acclaim, Vanessa likes to stay close to her roots in the Algarve. Currently on show at the Centro de Artes e Ofícios in Albufeira is her

exhibition Maré. Elsewhere, in the United States, her work was recently featured in an exhibition entitled, Currents at the Science Museum of Oklahoma and is featured in Intricate Oceans at the Coastal Discovery Museum in South Carolina. Other recent exhibitions include a two person show, Morphosis at Mu.Sa in Sintra; Within + Without, a group show at UNIT in London, and Blooming From The Rock at CoBrA Gallery, Shanghai, China. In 2022, Vanessa participated in Festival Iminente in Lisbon, creating an incredible installation for this famous music and art festival produced by the Portuguese urban artist – Vhils. In the same year she was also featured at the prestigious Serralves museum in Porto in a group show entitled The Art of Mushrooms. And her artwork can be found in a growing number of public and private collections, such as Collección SOLO, Spain; Hotel Pullman Paris Montparnasse, France; here in the Algarve at 3HB Hotel, Faro and Vila Vita Parc, Porches; Etsy HQ, NYC, USA and Heathrow Airport, London. Last year, Vanessa was commissioned by mega star performing artist Rihanna to create the centrepiece for her first-born child’s bedroom. The result was an installation made up of three floor pieces, covering an area of more than 270 x 440cm.

Many people view Vanessa Barragão as the next generation of important female Portuguese artists, that includes Joana Vasconcelos, and although their practices and themes are very different, they do share some similarities in terms of craft and physicality. Barragão perhaps speaks more directly to a younger audience who are concerned with the environment and a natural form of aesthetics. Submerged/Immersed sees Vanessa back home in the Algarve with a solo exhibition at the Lagos Cultural Centre. An opportunity for the artist to expand her practice and push the boundaries outside of the confines of commissions and commercial gallery exhibitions. Lagos is a bustling and vibrant town, attracting a cosmopolitan crowd, who appreciates artwork that is perhaps more experimental and challenging. Vanessa Barragão invites you to explore, to walk around and investigate at close hand these incredible pieces and to think about our relationship with the ecosphere and the artistic means of creation. Submerged/Immersed opens to the public on the 20 January at the Lagos Cultural Centre, R. Lançarote de Freitas 7, 8600-586 Lagos and will remain until 23 March. For more information including invitation requests for the private view please email the show curator ben@benaustin.pt

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This amazing piece, entitled Salinas, is a vast 442x510cm, created in 2021 and installed in a penthouse in Miami

CARING PLUS

Algarve to Africa CHRIS WHITE , FOUNDER OF IDEAL H O M E S P O R T U G A L , I S A P A S S I O N AT E PH I L ANTH RO PI ST WH O E M B R ACE S O P P O R T U N I T I E S T O C R E AT E M E A N I N G F U L C H A N G E T H AT L E A D TO A BET TER LIFE FOR MANY

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Wo rd s: C A R R I E S - M A R I E B R A T L E Y

HRIS WHITE is no stranger to travel. A European awardwinning real estate agent, having sold properties in over 20 countries and lived in approximately a dozen, he is a multi-business-owner with a busy passport. But despite his international achievements, at heart Chris remains a down-to-earth Lincolnshire lad for whom personal fulfilment comes through helping others. Born in Cleethorpes in 1979, Chris’s roots are a reminder of his journey from a modest terraced house “with a toilet in the garden” to global entrepreneur. Reflecting on his past, he acknowledges the support his own family received during challenging times. “When I was young, growing up there were times when we struggled and we had to rely on help. Help gives people hope, and everyone needs help every now and again,” he shares. In November last year, Chris made a trip to Uganda as part of a tour to follow-up on projects funded through a foundation created by UK property investor Samuel Leeds. The projects include a new school hall at the Bulubandi Primary School, improving sanitation at the Bunafu Primary School with five new toilet blocks, and a new hospital wing. “It was just fantastic to be on the ground and see how these changes are helping improve the children’s and everyone’s lives. We were given such an amazing welcome from the local community, it was really moving,” he recalls. Chris was accompanied on the trip by his

son and daughter, Jacob and Daisy, and they took with them a bag full of festive treats to give to the local children: “It was great fun; at one of the bigger schools we visited, we were all up singing Heads, Shoulders, Knees and Toes.” The team of 18 benefactors also had the opportunity to scout for new projects and see where more help could make a difference. “What I really want to do is create more opportunities where the funding generates revenue for self-sufficiency. In Africa, for example, I’d like to help the schools set up their own farms, so the children have access to healthy fresh vegetables, and sustainable forms of income, like their own bakeries,” he explains. Chris had previously visited Africa, and Operation Smile, a charity specialising in repairing cleft palates, and he plans to return with Operation Smile again later this year. What tends to take people by surprise, however, is that Chris began his working life not in property, but as a chef, and his first jobs were in a kebab shop and hotel kitchen. Last October, he had the opportunity to put those skills to good use while visiting Hawaii, where he rallied with a team of volunteers to make food for around 100 fire victims, in Maui. Chris also partners with Paralympic swimming star Lyndon Longhorne, a quadruple amputee and meningitis survivor, to bring motivational speaking to events and institutions. “For me, school was a struggle,” he says. “As a young boy

I wanted to be a pilot, but I couldn’t read very well. I was described as a daydreamer. Now I know it’s because I have dyslexia and ADHD.” Sharing their personal stories of overcoming challenges, Chris and Lyndon aim to inspire audiences to embrace their uniqueness and pursue their dreams. And here in Portugal A cause particularly close to Chris’s heart is the Gaivota children’s home in Albufeira. Ideal Homes Portugal has supported the home since the onset of the company, having helped fund structural improvements to the building as well as making donations of every-day items. Every year at Christmas time, the team takes a car-full of wrapped gifts to the children and dress up for the visit, to add an extra sprinkle of festive excitement. This year, besides the traditional Christmas visit, a financial donation was made, raised through sales of units at an Algarve development that the company recently took on. For each of the units sold at the Algarve Race Apartments complex, a percentage is donated to the home. “It’s important to make people realise they’re valued. At the end of the day, we’re all just human beings trying to help each other. If you’ve got the ability to do something, then you should do it,” Chris says. To learn more about any of the causes mentioned or to get involved, visit chriswhite.com

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ALGARVE

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SAFOR LE Stylish quinta, Casa de Campo Created from an old farm estate and lovingly restored and extended under the watchful eye of its architect owner, this unique country property outside Tavira is special in every sense

URRENTLY A PERMANENT residence,

the estate makes use of its additional houses, operating as a highly successful boutique hotel in the summer months. The owners feel it is time for them to downsize, hence their intention to sell this enchanting property. If you are looking to start a boutique hotel in the Algarve, this is a prime opportunity – the house is ready to move into and is already active in the market. The estate is divided in different properties to rent out: The main farmhouse contains a studio, composed of a living area with kitchenette and stairs up to a one-bedroom suite. There is also a double bedroom suite, which could be rented out together with the studio to accommodate a family. This is joined by another bedroom suite suitable for renting. The first floor of the main farmhouse features a beautiful master bedroom, currently used by the owners themselves. On the ground floor there is a large open-plan kitchen with

dining area, a TV room and a lounge/hall with a staircase to the first-floor mezzanine with office space. Casa Nova is a beautiful duplex apartment with a large living room, dining area and separate kitchen. There is a ground-floor bedroom suite, and a further two-bedroom suites upstairs. Casa Velha comprises a living room with kitchen and a one- bedroom suite. Its fabulous terrace overlooks the rolling hills surrounding the estate. Casa Julieta is yet to be completed and will offer further accommodation. The horse stables in the grounds have been converted into accommodation. The pool is situated a little away from the house in the old water tank, providing a lovely spot to escape the heat. Open and covered seating areas are dotted around the property, providing a real sense of retreat. Lending itself to multiple purposes, including family residence, boutique hotel or retreat, the peaceful rural location offers out-of-the-way seclusion, while still very close to local beaches and islands and the charming city of Tavira.

PROPERTY PLUS

AT A GLANCE

ALGARVE P L U S

8 bedrooms, with maximum privacy 8 contemporary bathrooms Air conditioning throughout Fully furnished and equipped Covered outdoor dining area with kitchen and BBQ Horse stables Total area 34,406m2 Built area 610m2 Ref 7Q22225

€3,490,000

Centro O Tradicional 1st Floor Rua do Comércio Apartado 3373 8136-906 Almancil Algarve, Portugal +351 919 136 146 AMI: 7490

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& passion

purpose

FROM SOCIAL WORKER TO SOCIAL EVENT C AT E R E R , A N A C A R M O C O S TA , F O U N D E R O F P R I VAT E C AT E R I N G S E R V I C E S A N I S E – A C U I S I N E A F F A I R , W I L L L E AV E Y O U W I T H

A TA S T E F O R A D V E N T U R E

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Wo rd s: S A L L Y D I X O N

A delicate touch with flavours and the way each dish is dressed are part of the Anise personality

IKIGAI – it’s a Japanese word that literally means ‘life’ ‘worth’ when translated, but in broader terms is all about your reason for being, something that gives your life purpose. Many say finding your ikigai is the secret to a happy life. Event caterer and founder of Anise – A Cuisine Affair, Ana Carmo Costa, found her ikigai in the art of cooking. Born to Goan parents in Mozambique, Ana was always fascinated with watching her mum and aunt cooking. She remembers: “There was always space for an extra person if they came to our house for a bite to eat, always extra food. I became intrigued by the preparation that goes into cooking, the behind the scenes, the ingredients, the time it takes to prepare, the presentation.” As a child, Ana and her family would spend holidays in Goa, staying in a house with a very old kitchen and an in-house chef who, in exchange for a room in the house, would cook for the family. Ana recalls: “He used to cook from scratch with very

basic cooking equipment. I got my pleasure for food and eating from that experience but also from watching my mother cook – she would never have a recipe or quantities but instead would say to me: ‘if you want to learn, sit next to me and watch how to do it from scratch’. Throughout my teenage years, to get some extra pocket money I made chicken pies for my mum’s colleagues. I actually went interrailing with that money!” Following a degree in Social Studies in Lisbon and a move to London to become a full-time social worker, Ana incorporated cooking into her evenings as a way of de-stressing. “If I’m preparing a dish I really disconnect and I just wander in my mind,” she says. “I love the transformation that takes place with cooking, from the solo ingredients to creating a delicious end result. “My job on a child protection team in Bexley, London, was a difficult one as we had to work with the children of parents with substance misuse and disorganised households. It was hard to come back home and fully disconnect but cooking helped me to do that.”

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It’s not just about the food, it is the detail that adds to the difference between this private catering service and so many of the others. Whether it’s an intimate dinner party at home, or a grand affair with big numbers, everything is designed to be special, and meaningful

A career change London proved to be life-changing for Ana as it was the city where she met her now husband, Portuguese João. After seven years of London life, the couple moved back to Lisbon where Ana continued to work in social care in a government institution in Lisbon. However, it was a different kettle of fish to working in social care in London and Ana became increasingly frustrated with her role. One day, she had lunch with one of her two brothers and told him how she felt. “Why don’t you do something that you really like,” he asked. “Why don’t you pursue that passion for cooking?” Not knowing where to even begin, Ana had the idea of cooking for a housewarming party at her brother’s new home as a way of getting people to know about her. “And that’s how it all started,” she recalls. “In 2009, I catered a party at his house, got my first clients through word of mouth and started a new business, Home Food Events.” Ana worked two jobs at the same time, pursuing her love of

cooking while continuing her role as a social worker and looking after her two small children. A move to the Algarve in 2010, due to her husband’s job, saw the family put down new roots and Ana take a sabbatical from her social work career. After catering various events here, the family was soon on the move again – this time to Marrakesh in 2012, where they would stay for four years, and Ana would continue to pursue her passion for cooking through events there. The time was right to quit her old job, embrace her inner chef and take the plunge into event catering full time. 2016 saw the family head back to the Algarve where Ana rebranded her business to something less home focused. Anise – A Cuisine Affair was born.

On the menu today From micro weddings and intimate dinners to cocktail parties and large corporate events, Ana puts the same passion and purpose into every Anise commission. “I always place myself in the position of the client, I would expect good service and

A N I S E E : a n a @ a n i s e . p t / T: +3 5 1 9 1 9 8 1 7 2 1 2 / a n i s e . p t

A chance to learn The Covid-19 pandemic didn’t do anything to quash Ana’s passion for cooking, in fact it sparked a new idea. During lockdown, a friend of Ana’s suggested she do weekly cooking classes over Teams video conferencing for the friendship group. Ana would send through the ingredients list ahead of time and then every week a new cooking class helped the friends connect and forget about what they were living through with the pandemic. Classes included a session for teenagers on how to cook to impress their friends, a Mexican night, cheese and wine pairing, and curry nights. Once the pandemic was over this gave Ana the idea to do private cooking classes with small groups of people in their homes, sharing her love for cooking and inspiring others to connect through food. If your enthusiasm for something close to your heart is anything like Ana’s, then finding your ikigai and following it can really take you places. Anise – A Cuisine Affair caters for events throughout the Algarve as well as in Lisbon.

We make your Care, our priority 24/7 OUR HOMECARE SERVICES INCLUDE: Nursing Care Live in Care Dementia & Alzheimer Care Palliative & End of Life Care Physiotherapy Speech Therapy Occupational Therapy Private Ambulance Services

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attention to detail,” she says. “I like to know exactly what they want – I’m all about providing great experiences for people through food. “For me the most satisfying thing at any event is when the client says it is exactly how they imagined it. When my team working on front of house come running into the kitchen and say: ‘The guests are loving it, the feedback is incredible’, that’s when I know I’m in the right job.” And that’s her ikigai. Ana’s hands-on approach to catering means she’s super attentive to a client’s needs, meeting with them in person to discuss ideas, view the equipment they have in their home kitchen if it is a home event, and thinking about food presentation. Aesthetics is important to her – Ana has a large collection of pottery and plates, collected from her travels, that she likes to use to present her food. “People eat with their eyes, presentation is so important,” she says. Everything is prepped in the days leading up to the event in her home kitchen which she is in the process of expanding. Cookbooks are a big source of inspiration for Ana along with the familiar Indian cuisine she grew up with. She says: “I’m a very curious person by nature, which is lucky as I don’t have a degree in cooking. I like food that comes from the heart. I’m always experimenting with new dishes and trying new flavours.” And what about her favourite place to buy cookbooks? That would be London, “Waterstones in Piccadilly is very special for me,” she giggles, “not just for the cookbooks – it’s where I started dating my husband!” Ana’s two children are now teenagers and fully appreciate the cooking queen that she is. She says fondly: “I love to cook, but what I don’t like to cook is everyday meals. So sometimes I’ll create something for my boys, like a pumpkin risotto. My older boy said the other day: ‘This is so good, I’m so lucky, I don’t think my school friends would eat like this for dinner.’ It made me laugh!”

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ACK AND WALTER chose the first day of

spring to mark the return to life of the historic home of Dr. Pádua in Olhão. In the past month they have been busy with adjustments of all kinds, running electricity tests, acoustic tests, hot water tests, furniture assembly, cleaning, team training, doubts, joys, decoration, cleaning again! Fortunately they say – but not in the least bit surprisingly to we onlookers – since the opening of reservations, messages of encouragement have been pouring in and already 223 nights have been booked at Casa Amor. “It warms our hearts to sense all these good vibes,” says Jack. “We are impatient, excited, more motivated than ever and also a little stressed.” How do they cope with all of this? “There is nothing better than walking in the middle of nature,” says Walter. We took the opportunity to ask the duo to share three favourite walks in Olhão, without needing the car to get started – three walks that they’ll be suggesting to the guests of Casa Amor. “That’s easy,” Jack responds, “Casa Amor is located in the

There is so much to see just a walk from Casa Amor. The salt flats, the islands – Armona especially – the beach at Fuseta, and the splendid Ria Formosa Natural Park with its stunning pine forests

historic centre, so in just a few minutes you can find yourself in the middle of the salt flats, or on the boat leaving for the island of Armona, or in the middle of the Ria Formosa Park.” “For the first walk, to Salinas do Grelha, you head towards the new Marina, then turn left to reach the path in the middle of the salt marshes,” says Walter. Opposite is the Farol lighthouse. “You can see the pink flamingos, always on the alert and ready to fly because here they are free, far from the zoos. Cross the railway line that connects Faro to Vila Real de Santo António via Olhão, and you can discover Sotavento, the eastern region of the Algarve, without needing a car. A small road will take you to the salt flats where there are informative guided tours available that will teach you everything about the production of salt, the tides, the mills (check the tour options at how to book, at salinasdogrelha.pt). You can buy salt, of course, and from May onwards you can float in the area’s ‘dead sea’ and smear yourself with precious mud! A great way to relax.” Jack talked us through the second destination of choice, Armona. “We take the boat, a nine-minute walk from Casa Amor. Armona is our favourite island. We cross the village

to reach the beach – on each side of the path, the small houses compete with each other in terms of charm, and during the school holidays, children sell painted shells and discover the joys of trade! When you arrive at the beach, turn left and go for a long long walk with your feet in the ocean.” Plan to return to Olhão by a different route and discover Fuseta, a charming little seaside town. In the season, you can take a boat to Fuseta beach; out of season, you may have to call a water taxi. From Fuseta, the more athletic will head back on foot, but most will take the famous little train to Olhão station... just a ten-minute walk from Casa Amor. For the third walk, Jack and Walter direct us to the Ria Formosa Natural Park. Set off on foot in the direction of the fishing port, opposite the Marina, and from there follow the camping grounds. En route, you can buy cans of sardines in one of the two local canneries. A little further, you enter the Centro de Educação Ambiental de Marim, where you learn a lot about the fauna and flora of the Ria Formosa. The scenery is amazing – the area boasts one of the few umbrella pine forests here. If it’s time for a relaxed lunch, sit down in one of the two restaurants and treat yourself to grilled fish. The boys’ favourite is Vista Formosa, in the inner courtyard... Guests must already be planning how they will spend their time in Olhão, as Jack and Walter enter the final stretch before the grand opening. No question, 2024 will be the year of Amor!

ALGARVE P L U S

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SPECIAL PERSONALITY AND UNIQUE CHARM

Wo rd s: K A Y L A M E I R I N H O

SALIR Nestled in the heart of the Serra do Caldeirão uplands, Salir awaits, unveiling itself as a charming mountain village with a captivating history and awe-inspiring landscapes. Once conquered by D. Paio Peres Correia, the region was home to Celts and later flourished under Arab influence in the 7th century, creating a distinctive blend of cultural influences.

Must-Sees Fonte Benémola Explore the captivating nature reserve, Fonte Benémola, housing the Menalva stream. It’s a haven for diverse plant species and animals, including kingfishers, tortoises, and occasional otters. Castle of Salir Step into history at this Almohad fortress dating back to the 12th century. The castle offers insights into Moorish history, featuring a small museum with artifacts from excavations and providing stunning views over the green hills of Serra do Caldeirão. Rocha da Pena For adventure seekers, Rocha da Pena, a rocky structure between Salir and Benafim, stands tall at 479 metres. It’s a popular spot for climbing and hiking, rewarding enthusiasts with magnificent ocean views.

Celebrations Festa da Espiga (Day of the Corn-Ear) Join in the festivities celebrated 40 days after Easter on the

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SCAPE THE hustle and bustle of city life and find yourself in tranquil surroundings where crowds are few and time stands still. Take a slow-paced drive to these small villages, where you’re welcome to connect with nature and the local community, discovering the region’s history and way of life. Join in unique experiences, celebrate local festivals, enjoy delicious regional bites, and explore the historical landmarks.

Below, the ancient bridge in Ponte de Lima; right: Salir is a charming village up in the Serra do Caldeirão

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Celebrations Carnaval de Alte The town bursts into life for Carnaval with vibrant decorations including parades and floats. Semana Cultural de Alte This is a wonderful cultural week filled with exhibitions, walking tours, street performances, craft markets, and live concerts.

SALEMA Nestled at the base of a cliff, Salema is a fishing village in the western Algarve, where you’ll find vibrant indigenous fishing boats that use traditional methods to haul in their daily catch. Salema also offers an array of water activities such as windsurfing, kayaking, and standup paddleboarding. And the village invites exploration through cliffside hiking and serves as a launch point for paragliding enthusiasts.

ALGARVE P L U S

Must-Sees Feast of the Ascension. The event features parades, folk music, local delicacies, and residents hanging corn ears outside their homes for good fortune. Salir do Tempo Experience medieval charm at the end of July during this celebration, Salir do Tempo. Transport yourself to historical roots with unique recreations of medieval times.

ALTE Tucked away in the hills north of Loulé, Alte boasts whitewashed houses, cobblestone streets, and rejuvenating natural springs. Renowned for its waters, Alte holds historical significance as a gathering place for women, caring for laundry, filling water pitchers, and sharing in local gossip. Today, the stream invites visitors to indulge in a refreshing swim.

Must-Sees Igreja Matriz de Alte Explore the 13th-century church adorned with angelthemed tiles portraying celestial scenes. Two crosses grace the rooftop, enhancing its architectural allure. Queda do Vigário Embark on a journey from the church to this waterfall, once a local bathing spot now frequented by those seeking respite on hot summer days. The 24m fall is shaded by fig trees, creating a serene atmosphere. Fonte Grande in Alte Higher up on the same street, Fonte Grande, or Big Spring, features a river pool developed in the 1980s. Known as Praia Fluvial, or river beach, it remains a popular spot for swimming, surrounded by trees providing ample shade.

Sunken Ship Dive into the underwater beauty off Salema beach, where a sunken ‘French Man of War’ awaits divers with captivating seascapes and marine life. Dinosaur Tracks Explore dinosaur footprints on Praia da Salema amidst layers of limescale rocks, dating back around 150 million years, revealing the region’s ancient geological history. Forte de Almadena – Fortress of Almadena Perched on the cliffside above Praia da Boca do Rio, this 17th-century fortress offers panoramic views from Sagres to the bay of Lagos. Boca do Rio Nature Reserve A small wetland created by converging streams, this reserve between Burgau and Salema attracts migratory birds, making it an ideal spot for birdwatching.

This page, top left: the fishing boats of Salema; below: the Fonte Grande de Alte spring. Opposite page, above: the ancient schist village of Piódão which has an amazing history

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PIÓDÃO Tucked away in the Serra do Açor mountains, Piódão is a captivating schist village comprised of traditional stone houses. Classified as one of the 12 Aldeias Históricas de Portugal (Historical Villages of Portugal), it holds historical significance dating back to the 14th century, and is believed to have served as a refuge for medieval fugitives hiding in the Serra do Açor mountains. Exploring this enchanting village, you’ll wander through narrow winding streets and encounter bright blue windows and doors, attributed to the blue paint said to be the only colour once available at the village shop.

Must-Sees Igreja Matriz The iconic white-washed church, completed in the second half of the 18th century, shines against the dark schist backdrop. Its Manueline-Mudejar revivalism style combines Manueline architecture with Islamic art, creating a unique and beautiful structure. Foz de Égua Just 4.3 km from Piódão, this area is often a trekking destination or accessible by car. A trekking route passes through CM1134, taking around an hour to complete. Foz de Égua offers natural

waterfalls, pools, and a slate swimming pool, providing a refreshing escape. Praia Fluvial do Piódão | Piódão River Beach Located just below the town, this river beach is a popular spot to cool off in summer and has a slate swimming pool.

Celebrations Piódão: Estrada Real As part of the Cycle of Events 12 in Network – Aldeias em Festa, the village hosts Piódão: Estrada Real, celebrating traditions and customs. The event brings to the present day the traditions and customs of this village.

PONTE DE LIMA Renowned as Portugal’s oldest town, Ponte de Lima beckons with its picturesque riverside setting, historic architecture, and vibrant cultural offerings. Named after the medieval bridge constructed by Romans in 1AD across the Lima River, this town has stood the test of time. Established in 1125 by Countess Dª. Teresa de Leão, the mother of the first king, Ponte de Lima was fortified in the 14th century for strategic purposes. The remnants of a gate and two towers now preserve the historical charm of this medieval town, offering a glimpse into its storied past.

Must-Sees Roman and Medieval Bridge Constructed by the Romans 2000 years ago, this bridge served as a vital crossing over the Lima River. Enlarged during the Middle Ages, it remains a key landmark for pilgrims on the Portuguese Way of Saint James. Vinho Verde Ponte de Lima Explore the history of Portugal’s popular Vinho Verde at the Centro de Interpretação e Promoção do Vinho Verde and Adega de Ponte de Lima. Visit here for tastings, vineyard tours, and a place to learn a little about the art of winemaking. Arnado Park An architectural theme park with styles from around the world, featuring a Roman garden, Minotaurinspired Labyrinth, Renaissance water features, and the splendor of French Baroque gardens. Discover local traditions at the Centro de Interpretação do Território within the park. Museu do Brinquedo Located near the Roman bridge, this Toy Museum showcases Portuguese toys from the 19th century to 1986. Learn about manufacturing techniques, materials used, and the toys that delighted Portuguese children.

TIME OUT PLUS

Left: Mangualde’s Church of the Misericordia shows off wonderfully ornate detailing. Below: Instantly recognisable stitching of the carpets produced in Arraiolos

Must-Sees

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Celebrations Corpo de Deus An ancient religious festival since the 16th century, marked by outdoor bullfights known as Vaca das Cordas. Festival Internacional de Jardins An annual event from May to October, showcasing 12 garden displays prepared based on contest winners’ projects. It transforms the village into a floral spectacle, highlighting international creativity and participation.

ARRAIOLOS Known across the world for its wonderful carpets, Arraiolos is hidden away in the scenic Alentejo region. Founded in the 2nd century BC, the village flourished under the medieval castle built by D. Dinis in the 14th century. The tradition of carpet making, passed down by local craftsmen since the 16th century, features distinct patterns reflecting Persian influences, popular designs, and stylized patterns, showcasing a unique blend of cultural history.

Must-Sees Arraiolos Carpets A significant heritage of the village, these renowned carpets represent a hand-embroidered history passed down through generations. Originating from abundant raw materials and skilled artisans, this ancient craft, possibly one of the oldest in Portugal, is influenced by Islamic tapestry-makers from the 8th to the 15th century. The carpets are embroidered with colourful wool on jute or cotton canvas. (visitarraiolos.pt/menu/133/casas-detapetes) Arraiolos Castle Built in the 14th

century on Mount of S. Pedro, this circular castle offers a panoramic view of Arraiolos and the Alentejo plains. Explore the interior and climb the towers to experience its unique circular architecture. Church of Nossa Senhora do Castelo Perched on Mount of S. Pedro within the castle, this old church, despite its rough appearance, stands as a preserved landmark and was once the Mother Church of Arraiolos. Convento dos Lóios A 16th-century convent, now a historic hotel, featuring Manueline-Moorish architecture on the church and Baroque styling on the convent. Restored in 1980, it offers a unique glimpse into Arraiolos’ past.

Celebrations Tapete na Rua An annual event that celebrates the local culture related to Arraiolos Carpets. The festivities include shows, exhibitions, colloquiums, and debates highlighting the craftsmanship and cultural significance of these renowned carpets.

MANGUALDE Bordered by the River Dão to the north and the River Mondego to the south, Mangualde boasts a rich history shaped by ancient civilizations, from Viriathus’s warriors to Romans, Moors, and Christian conquerors. Beyond its historical significance, Mangualde attracts visitors with a blend of cultural heritage and culinary delights, including local specialties like pork crackling, pork chops, and the renowned Serra cheese. The region also takes pride in traditional arts, featuring black clay objects and ceramics.

Palácio dos Condes da Anadia A 17th-century palace constructed by Miguel Pais Amaral. Noteworthy for its façade with Rocaille-style motifs, an emblazoned door, balcony with stone balusters, and a chapel dedicated to Saint Bernard, showcasing architectural and historical significance. Santuário de Nossa Senhora do Castelo An 18th-19th century Pilgrimage Sanctuary with a granite staircase adorned by pinnacles. In 1510, the church was restored with a Manueline design. In the 17th century, the church was subsequently decorated with glazed tile panels. Castro Senhora Bom Sucesso A settlement from the end of the Bronze Age, continuing through the Iron Age, Roman occupation, and the Middle Ages. Sections of the original wall and housing structures provide a glimpse into the village’s ancient roots. Barragem de Fagilde An arch-vault dam on the Dão River supplying multiple municipalities. Completed in 1984, it offers tranquility and scenic landscapes, providing opportunities for leisure and outdoor activities.

Celebrations Feira dos Santos A lively fair that celebrates the town’s gastronomy, wines, crafts, and traditions, entertaining all.

a creative playground to discover wood & surfaces for your next project NOW IN THE ALGARVE Ed. Portal de Vilamoura Av. Vilamoura XXI, Bloco B 1.º Andar, 8135-017 Quarteira

SHOWROOM VISIT BY APPOINTMENT ONLY Call +351 939 853 260 Scan the QR code and book your visit online banema.pt

Fragrant Pico

the island of wine T H E A Z O R E S W A S A W A R D E D T H E B E S T S U S TA I N A B L E W I N E T O U R I S M D E S T I N AT I O N I N 2 0 2 3 B Y I T E R V I T I S , A N I N T E R N AT I O N A L A S S O C I AT I O N T H AT P R O M O T E S W I N E TOU RISM AROU ND THE WORLD

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TERVITIS recognises the best practices in wine tourism for ships bound for the New World. The grape varieties that protect and promote the ancient tradition of vineyards that were planted at the time are thought to have come and wine and the landscape linked to them, as well as from Crete or Cyprus. innovation and respect for environmental, social and In the beginning, all nine islands had their own vineyards, economic sustainability. but the phylloxera epidemic in 1857 destroyed a significant The association deemed the Azores, one of the part of them. Wine production and export decreased 14 wine regions in Portugal, worthy of the Best dramatically as the result, but in the late 1900s, the downhill Sustainable Wine Tourism Destination title in 2023. trend was reversed when the Azores government focused on Let us show you why... producing and distributing local wines. Today, the number of The archipelago of the Azores, located about 1,450km vineyards on the islands has doubled – there are currently around from Lisbon, lies in the Atlantic Ocean, halfway between 500 hectares, approximately 80% of which are located on the island the European and North American continents and consists of Pico, which has become known as the floating wine region. of nine volcanic islands: São Miguel, Santa Maria, Faial, Pico took its name from the beautiful, sometimes snow-covered Terceira, Graciosa, São Jorge, Pico, Flores and Corvo. volcanic peak that dominates the landscape. At 2,350 metres, it is the Grape cultivation began here at the beginning of the highest point in the archipelago and also in Portugal. 16th century when the islands served as the main port Being a volcanic island, Pico’s rocky surface is practically a black

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mild temperatures, heavy rains (especially in winter), and increased humidity, and the ocean wind is almost constant. Frequent fog favours fungal diseases, so anti-fungal spraying is essential on the island. Due to the robust soil and the harsh wind, it is impossible to set up the usual vine trellises, so the vineyards are arranged like a chessboard, approximately divided into 3x6m rectangular cells surrounded by volcanic stone walls called ‘currais’, which collect heat during the day and radiate it back to the vines at night. Due to these special conditions, the grapes and the wines made from them have truly unique characteristics.

basalt crust that looks like burnt toast in places. This also explains why it has the most grapes, unlike the other islands, whose beautiful green landscapes provide the archipelago with fantastic supplies of cheese, butter, pineapples, and bananas. In recognition of the uniqueness of Pico Island’s viticulture, the island’s vineyards were declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2004.

The land Pico’s vineyards are located in extreme conditions, close to the ocean, on volcanic soil, surrounded by dry stone walls made of black basalt stones, in a really spectacular net structure. The ocean sprays the grapes with salt, but it also enters the soil, from where it also reaches the plant through the roots of the fruit. The climate of the island is moderate, with an average temperature of 16-18°C. The Atlantic influence causes

The grapes In the Azores, 33 grape varieties are currently allowed to be planted, 15 red and 18 white. Among these, the three main white grapes are Arinto dos Açores, Verdelho and Terrantez do Pico.

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The Azores became a demarcated wine region in 1994. The majority of Azorean wines are white, fresh and tart thanks to the humid, temperate climate, and are mainly made from the three indigenous grape varieties mentioned above, while the red wines are made from Merlot, Syrah, and other hybrid varieties. Currently, the islands produce about one million litres of wine, most of which is sold locally, and include 10% liqueur wines. The latter offers remarkable freshness and acidity. The most outstanding of them is the liqueur wine from Pico Island, which has been highly valued since the 18th century.

The Czar liqueur wine of Pico The ‘Czar’ wine, produced in the Criação Velha area of the hundred-year-old vineyards of the volcanic Pico Island, is the only wine in the world that naturally reaches 20% alcohol level. Liqueur wines have a long tradition on the island, and Tolstoy already referred to them in his work War and Peace. In 1820, more than 23,000 litres of late-harvest wine were sent to St. Petersburg, to the tsar’s court. The phylloxera outbreak of 1850 left only the vineyards of Criação Velha intact. The father of the current winemaker, José Duarte Garcia, bought the estate in the 1960s, and started making non-fortified liqueur wines. Originally, he didn’t even bottle his drink – it was consumed with family and friends. But after Duarte learned that in 1917 a large quantity of late-harvest wine from Pico Island had been found in the cellars of Czar Miklós II, he decided to start bottling his wine under the name Czar, in order to boost the island’s wine production and reputation again. To this day, he uses his own hand-drawn logo and label on his bottles. The first Czar wines were bottled in 1969 and sold the next year; from the beginning of the 2000s, the wine won one medal after another, at both local and international wine competitions. This high-acid, low-sugar liqueur wine contains all three main Azores white grape varieties, usually harvested and pressed after 15 September, then naturally fermented before being placed in old French oak barrels. During fermentation, the wine reaches a minimum alcohol content of 18.5%. Since the Czar wine – unlike Port wine – is never fortified with added alcohol, the resulting style is a product of the given vintage, so a different kind of wine is actually born every year. The wine is aged for eight years in barrels to make it richer in aroma and taste. The cellar is warm – the humidity is around 70% – according to the winemaker’s estimate, each barrel loses around 70-80 litres due to evaporation. The resulting drink has a deep amber colour, aromas of nuts, caramel, malt and tobacco, and flavours of raisins and apricots. czarwine.pt

The nine islands of the Azores are known for their astonishing volcanic landscapes, abundant flora, and quietness of life. These islands, once wild and distant, are now frequented by tourists who enjoy walking, sailing, and isolation. Wine tourism is just starting in this region and it will have undoubtedly an important word to say in the near future. And what to taste on the island? Let me show you some more great examples! Terrantez do Pico White by Cooperativa Ilha do Pico This cooperative winery produces this wine from the unique Terrantez do Pico grape, fermented and aged in very old oak barrels. Aroma notes of grapefruit and peach in an environment of earthy and volcanic notes make an impression – the palate is surprised by the striking acidity and salinity. This wine goes well with fish and seafood and its best consumption temperature is 12-13 °C. picowines.com/vinho/brancos/terrantez/ Oceânico – Arinto dos Açores by Herdade do Rocim This white wine is produced 100% from the local Arinto dos Açores grape, and was the first wine produced by this famous Alentejo winery on the Pico Island. The wine highlights the characteristics of this unique terroir – it has a goldengreenish colour and on the nose, intense aromas of sea breeze mixed with minerality and saline. On the palate, it is a good-volume wine with remarkable freshness and salinity. Consume this wine at a temperature of 10-12 °C. It pairs well with seafood, grilled fresh fish, white meats, or by itself as an aperitif. rocim.pt/product/oceanico/ Tinto Vulcânico by Azores Wine Company This rustic red wine is produced by the well-known Portuguese winemaker António Maçanita, on Pico Island. The pale ruby-coloured drink is made from the Aragonês, Castelão, Malvarisco, Merlot, Saborinho, Syrah, and Touriga Nacional grapes, among others. Discover aromas of red berry fruits on the nose, cherry and strawberry, a bit of smokiness, black pepper, and earthy notes. On the palate, elegant acidity, and gentle tannins, with spicy nuances. An easy-drinking, unoaked wine with fruitiness, minerality, and notes of salinity, it goes well with grilled red meats or spicy meals. antoniomacanita.com/pt/vinhosonline/azores-wine-company/tintovulcanico-2021

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DESMOND AND DEMPSEY A brand famed for its eye-catching lounge wear, but did you know that Desmond and Dempsey produce all their garments in Portugal? Founded by an Australian and a Brit enticed by the quality of Portuguese production, these pieces – 52 on average per set – are cut by hand, sewn together, pressed, checked and packed by teams of human beings. There are no shortcuts in creating long lasting quality – it takes time, devotion and skill. desmondanddempsey.com

A LINE A LINE designs timeless and sustainable ready-to-wear pyjama sets. Their apparel reflects what embodies women and their style – elegance, maturity, consciousness and self-confidence – and all the new trajectories that may emerge in their way. Nothing quite says January chill like a comfortable baggy cotton shirt. alineclothing.com

T H E D A N I S H H AV E A N A M E F O R I T – H Y G G E . T H E H Y G G E W AY O F L I F E E M B O D I E S A S E N S E O F C O S I N E S S , S I M P L I C I T Y, A N D B E I N G P R E S E N T. A N D W H I L S T P O R T U G A L M AY N O T G E T A S C H I L LY A S D E N M A R K , W E S H O U L D D E F I N I T E LY E N J O Y M O R E T I M E I N O U R P YJ A M A S . G E T R E A D Y T O P R E S S TH E S N OOZE B UT TO N …

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Yawn till dawn COTONE COLLECTION Wrap up and wind down in this gorgeous cotton gown. The Cotone Collection is an Irish brand that provides you with the best of what Ireland has combined with the quality and craftsmanship of Portugal. All products are manufactured in a factory in Braga. With just 25 employees, the factory is extremely efficient and known for its authentic quality and love for garment tech. cotonecollection.ie

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UNDER SLEEPWEAR

KLEED

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New year, same love affair with this sophisticated loungewear brand. We are now exploring Kleed’s Green Label, crafted from their own production wastage. This gorgeous Sati pink kimono is in limited supply and made from excess KLEED collection fabrics. Other than being green, Carolina Guedes Cruz, founder of KLEED, has spent a lot of her time in Africa where she joined several wildlife conservation projects over the past 20 years, growing a love and affinity for the culture, wildlife and communities. Her love for rhinos commenced when she worked for wildlife conservation projects during her travels. Which is why KLEED has decided to support Saving the Survivors, a non-profit organisation that cares for rhinos, elephants, lions and other African wildlife that have fallen victim to poaching or traumatic incidents. kleedkimonos.com

100% proudly made in Portugal, Under Sleepwear combines luxury products with affordable prices. This brand’s inspiration is simple; comfort and elegance, and for that, they use premium fabrics to provide us the best night sleep! Their fun and trendy designs are handmade by specialised seamstresses, with whom they are able to have a more personal connection and verify that they have fair working conditions.These men’s PJs are a real siesta suit! undersleepwear.com

NUI AMI Nui Ami brings a new approach to sleepwear, combining versatility and comfort with luxury and sophistication. Their collections soften the boundaries between night and day, between sleepwear and loungewear. They use the finest natural fabrics which make their pjs ideal for hot and cold sleepers alike. These pyjamas in particular are joyful, practical and handstitched at their women-led atelier in Portugal from consciously sourced organic cotton. nuiami.com

THE SIMPLE FOLK Founded by two mothers, The Simple Folk creates smallbatch versatile pieces that are comfortable, practical, and conscious. They craft minimalist, nature-inspired items for adults and children that are made with non-toxic fabrics and dyes, and allow for play and exploration. They produce all their garments in a factory in Portugal which runs on renewable energy. thesimplefolk.co.uk

MIRA Another choice for cotton lovers is Mira, a brand born in 1979 in a small village in the North of Portugal in Minho. This region is recognised not only for being the heart of the textile industry but also for the tranquility of its natural surroundings, for the gastronomy, and for the strong personality of the people. Mira’s customisable kid’s pyjamas are cute as a button. shopatmira.com

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Woodworks F O L L O W I N G T H E T R A D I T I O N O F T H E G R E AT O L D M A S T E R S , S P A N I S H A R T I S T M O N T S E P E L E JÁ H A S A PA R T I C U L A R A F F I N I T Y W I T H PA I N T I N G O N TO WO O D

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G A L E R I A C Ô R T E - R E A L i s s i g n p o s te d f ro m B o l i q u e i m e , F e r r e i r a s a n d P a d e r n e . O P E N : T h u r s d ay to S u n d ay, 1 1 : 3 0 – 1 6 : 3 0 / 9 6 1 5 2 8 6 7 9 / c o r t e r e a l a r t e . c o m

about the artist

How old were you when you discovered a passion for art? I have always liked art. I first dedicated myself to studying is theory and graduated in Art History and then, when I was 24, I started painting to decorate our house. Do you start each painting with a precise vision or does each work evolve as you go? Before starting a work I study its chromaticism and its

composition. I already have it well thought out in my mind. I’m not comfortable improvising. I like to control my work. Do you complete each painting before starting another? I never start a painting until the previous one is finished. I couldn’t focus on a new project if I knew I had things to do. What was the subject of your very first finished

piece? A small format rural landscape. What inspires you? Everything. Looking around takes me all day and everything is inspiring. How many pieces have you created so far in your working life? I work every day, and considering that I have been working for some 35 years, I could say that more than 1,000.

many painted versions have survived. Some of the world’s greatest masterpieces by Raphael and da Vinci were painted on solid pieces of poplar wood. Think of the Mona Lisa, the most famous portrait ever painted. It began as a radial piece of wood chopped across the width of a poplar trunk. Cut to size it would have been planed and sanded by a carpenter and taken to da Vinci’s studio. Coated with glues and resin and covered with linen, the process of applying and sanding layer upon layer resulted in a surface as smooth as ivory ready for the artistic genius to paint. To create much larger surfaces, wooden panels were fitted together and secured with glue. That is until early in the 16th century when canvas was introduced as a more convenient alternative. For several practical reasons, most artists preferred it. Not only could the size be easily determined, but it was also less costly and less prone to deterioration caused by insect damage, cracking and warping. It was lighter and could be rolled up, making it easier to transport. Nowadays, artists like Montse who choose to paint on wood are few and far between. Unlike panels from the Renaissance period the surface is prepared using plywood with a birch veneer. A layer of primer or gesso is applied and gently sanded to smooth out the brushstrokes. This provides a barrier that prevents the paint from sinking into the surface. The finish is similar to ivory and gives her paintings a classic look. Galeria Côrte-Real in Paderne is currently displaying Montse Pelejá’s wonderful paintings on wood.

that survive from earlier centuries, Montse’s pictures are mostly painted on wood. In Portugal, the best examples of such altarpieces can be seen at the Grão Vasco Museum. Executed during the Renaissance period, there are several from local churches and others that were originally painted for Viseu Cathedral. During her time at University, Montse benefitted from frequent visits to the National Museum of the Art of Catalonia in Barcelona, which houses one of the largest collections of altarpieces that includes the Altarpiece of St Vincent, an exceptional example that has survived completely intact. Painted panels for altars are most numerous in Spain, especially in the region of Catalonia which was poor at the time. They were a cheaper alternative to metalwork altarpieces decorated with gems and enamels. Over time, these elaborate altarpieces have been broken up for their materials whereas

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IKE MANY decorative altarpieces

Home

from home W H E N T W O H O U S E M AT E S W E L C O M E D T H R E E P AY I N G G U E S T S I N T O T H E I R S A N F R A N C I S C O H O M E , L I T T L E D I D T H E Y K N O W T H AT 1 6 Y E A R S L AT E R T H E Y W O U L D H AV E C R E AT E D B U S I N E S S O P P O R T U N I T I E S FO R OVE R FO U R M I LLIO N H OSTS ARO U N D TH E W O R L D . W I T H J U S T A L I T T L E E F F O R T, Y O U C O U L D G E T YO U R S I D E H U S T L E O N , TO O

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explained how he was going to “Airbnb” his granny cottage, rattling on about the extra income he could make, the people he could meet and the doors it could open. Not long after, another friend told me how she was moving her whole family out of their house in a sought-after summer vacation spot to her mom’s country cottage so that they could make some extra income on Airbnb. Back then I had never heard of Airbnb and was somewhat suspicious of the idea of strangers living in my space with my things or me living in their space with their things. It was only when my life changed, thanks to early retirement and a move from South Africa to Portugal, that the world suddenly opened up, and the concept of staying in someone’s home rather than a sterile (and usually way more expensive) hotel gained attraction. If I wanted to become an Airbnb traveller, I had to download an app which was a little daunting since apps were something kids used to listen to music, play games and stuff. My more tech-savvy husband convinced me to “just do it”. So, I did, and considering a month later most of the world closed due to the Covid 19 pandemic, it was a Godsend. Staying in hotels was mostly out of the question, but Airbnb accommodation was largely still available – under strict safety and hygiene protocols. Over the difficult Covid period, I’m blessed to say, we managed one trip to Spain, three stays in Portugal and even a family Christmas in Scotland. Meanwhile, we had invested in a one-bedroom apartment in a Tavira complex with the thought of finding a long-term tenant. There was talk of perhaps using it as a holiday rental instead, but the red tape seemed like too much effort. Then I met Airbnb Superhost Sarah Morgan and it all fell into place. Sarah has lived in London most of her life, but happily bounces between her spacious two-bedroom home in the big city and her two apartments in Tavira.

ROUND TEN years ago a friend excitedly

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Okay, so there is more to Airbnb options than the traditional houses and apartments, but how great to see some of the truly unconventional offerings, like these

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Make your property warm and welcoming – that’s what will have guests coming back for more. Cleanliness is vital, and you should always make cleaning essentials available

And she Airbnbs all three. “Living a fast-paced life in London, I loved visiting more laid-back Tavira and in 2016 I decided to buy a holiday home here,” she explains. “Being rather impulsive I quickly bought a two-bed, two-bathroom apartment with a shared pool in a complex just outside Tavira city. “Then I started panicking about whether I could afford it, so I decided to go the Airbnb route. It made perfect sense that when I was in London, I could rent the Tavira home out and earn money to cover the mortgage.”

The essentials Sarah had just three days to furnish and set up the AL (Alojamento Local) licence, which is legally required in Portugal when offering shortterm tourist accommodation. “As part of the licence, which you get from the local council, the legal requirements include a safety check, a fire blanket, first-aid kit, fire

extinguisher, complaints book and you have to display the AL sign outside the rental property,” she says. (* See important note on opposite page). Then it’s a case of setting up your rental profile on the Airbnb site. “It really is dead easy, because the templates are all there along with all the guidelines you could possibly need. It helps you build your listing like a business plan.” You have the choice of renting an entire apartment or home, or just a room, which is how Airbnb started in 2007, when cash-strapped roommates and former schoolmates Brian Chesky and Joe Gebbia came up with the idea of renting out air mattresses in their San Francisco apartment to attendees of a design conference. The initial concept was to give millennials the opportunity to turn their rented apartment into an income stream and a long grind later – against the predictions of the established hotel industry – it grew into a company which is now worth around US$31 million.

Snap decisions Says Sarah: “The most important things about your Airbnb listing is to get your description right. Be honest and highlight what is unusual or unique about your space. You want return customers, so you can’t lie. The pictures are also vital and if you are not good at taking your own, Airbnb offers to find you a professional photographer in your area.”

also good to have a hard copy in your home for guests to refer to, which should include things like how to switch on appliances, where to dump rubbish etc.

3. Bedding Good quality linen is a real bonus for guests, especially if your accommodation is asking top dollar. Linen should always be clean and fresh and for long stays, linen changes are usually offered weekly. 4. Keep in touch You should message your guests the day before they leave and the day of their arrival, with all address details, advice on how best to get to your home and lock box codes if necessary. “Some hosts prefer to do the check-ins themselves so they can interact with their guests, while others who may not be available have someone else fill this role,” says Sarah. “Or you can have a lockbox with the keys so guests can check themselves in. This is helpful if they arrive out of the recommended check-in times.” 5. House rules Make sure your house rules/manual is updated on your Airbnb profile and it’s

2. Keep it clean You get rated on cleanliness, so make sure you clean well or have a very good reliable cleaner. “Guests generally pay a cleaning fee, so they will look for dirt and call you up on it. Leave enough cleaning aids so your guests can also clean up after themselves before they leave.”

2. Keep learning Never take negative feedback personally, but rather use it constructively. Says Sarah: “If your guests have a legitimate complaint, check it out and try to rectify it as soon as possible.” 3. Stay ahead Don’t forget to keep your listings as accurate and up to date as possible – it’s a great help to your guests, for example, to know your internet speed.

1. Sell the experience Make sure everything is there for your guest. “You shouldn’t have to buy your own loo rolls, for example,” says Sarah. “And if you’re offering a self-service home, leave enough basic supplies like cooking oil, salt and pepper.” Some hosts leave “welcome packs”, which can include wine, water, tea, coffee, or a local delicacy.

1. What your guests want Unless your guests want to interact constantly, don’t irritate them with too many messages. They are mostly on holiday and don’t necessarily want to be your best buddy. However, if you are doing a room share, this might be different and your guest might not want to be left to their own devices, so find out beforehand which they prefer.

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Although apprehensive about her very first booking, Sarah says she has never looked back. “It was a Brazilian couple who had family coming to celebrate his 80th birthday. It was such a rewarding experience that my next decision was why live in the London rat race, when I could rent out my London home and live in Tavira?” In 2018, she prepared her London home, packed her personal belongings and drove to Tavira. Last year, after falling in love with a three-bedroom apartment in old-town Tavira, she decided to increase her investment with another Airbnb listing. “I managed to pay for the first apartment in three years, because of the Airbnb income, so I realised it’s a great idea to sit on the beach and sweat your assets rather than working your butt off.” She is now able to quickly move between her three homes depending on her bookings and her requirements. “The great thing about Airbnb is that you decide when you want to rent your space and you can block it off at any time. “It costs you absolutely nothing to list your space, but, of course, because of the great service you get from Airbnb, which includes a 24/7 helpline and US$1 million Aircover compensation for property damage and thirdparty injury, the service fee is about 3% for each confirmed booking.” I can concur with everything Sarah says, having taken the leap and listed our apartment in 2021. The return on investment so far has been about 5%, but the reward of having a little “side hustle” and hosting people from all over the world has been invaluable. There’s a great sense of pride in reaching Superhost status and having your guests love what you’ve done to make their holiday special and authentic. “Back in the day before apps, to do something like Airbnb would mean getting a bank loan, buying a property and trying to market it yourself, or probably having to pay someone else to do it for you,” Sarah explains. “Now the world is so much more entrepreneurial and an app like Airbnb gives people with a static income the chance to earn more money. It’s also a nice business to run. “I remember sitting in a traffic jam on the motorway in London and my phone pinged with a message saying ‘thanks for sharing your lovely home with us’. It put a smile on my face all day.”

top tips to make it happen

DON’T...

4. Diary essentials Never, ever forget to keep your calendar up to date and double-check when your guests are arriving and leaving. “You don’t want to leave them out in the street because you’ve forgotten their arrival time,” says Sarah. 5. Communicate Always keep your communication with your guest on the Airbnb app so if anything goes wrong there is an audit trail. “Some guests will try to interact on your private Whatsapp, which is never a good idea if there is a problem.” *Important note: The “More Housing” programme draft law approved by the Council of Ministers on March 30th this year, which aims to regulate local accommodation to give Portuguese families more affordable housing, has somewhat muddied the waters when it comes to AL licences. Initially, it was predicted that it would include all rental properties in Portugal, meaning that no new AL licences would be issued until 2030. However, it seems the new law only applies to high density areas such as Lisbon, Porto and parts of the Algarve. To confirm the status of your area, it is best to check with your local authority or a property lawyer before taking the leap.

Seabass and tuna ceviche with coconut milk dressing L I G H T A N D L O V E LY, A S T U N N I N G - L O O K I N G C O M P O S I T I O N O F M A R I N AT E D F I S H T H AT M A K E S A N A D V E N T U R O U S S TA R T E R F O R A D I N N E R P A R T Y. A N A C A R M O C O S TA O F A N I S E C U I S I N E , H E R E O N T H E A L G A R V E A N D I N L I S B O N , S E R V E S U P A D E C E P T I V E LY E A S Y D I S H T H AT TA K E S J U S T 3 5 M I N U T E S F R O M S TA R T T O F I N I S H

SERVES UP TO 6

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RECIPE

of the month...

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300g fresh tuna, skinned and off the bone 300g fresh seabass, skinned and off the bone 1 medium orange sweet potato Salt Small carton Greek yoghurt, natural 1 large avocado 1 lime Mint leaves 1 can of coconut milk Edible flowers Pickled red onion

M ET HOD 1 Boil the sweet potato. When soft, remove from pan and let cool. When you can handle it, peel the skin away and pop the potato in a bowl. Use a hand blender to make a purée. Add salt and two dessert spoons of natural yogurt. Set aside. 2 Peel the avocado, remove the stone, and mix with two dessert spoons of natural yogurt and a few drops of lime juice. The avocado purée has to be silky and smooth. Set aside 3 Cut the tuna and the seabass in small chunks. 4 For the dressing, mix together the juice of one lime and eight dessert spoons of coconut milk, plus a little salt to taste. 5 In a bowl, mix the tuna and seabass chunks with the dressing, turning the fish over to make sure it is all coated. Leave the fish to marinate for 20 minutes 6 Put the sweet potato purée and the avocado mousse into two separate small plastic bags. 7 Have the mint leaves, edible flowers, pickled red onion and sweet potato and avocado purées ready, with the plates.

8 Place the tuna and seabass in the middle of each plate, making sure there’s no dressing on the plate. 9 Select a few edible flowers to decorate, as well as the mint leaves and pickled onion slice. 10 When everything is in position in the centre of the plate, cut a corner of each of the plastic bags and gently – very gently – squeeze the bag to release a small amount of each purée on the side of the plate. Add some more flowers and mint leaves. Open a chilled wine and serve! Your guests will be impressed.

Pickled Red Onion        

300ml of water 300ml cider vinegar 1 tsp salt 1 tsp sugar 3 red onions, peeled and finely sliced 1 dessert spoon of coriander seeds 1 dessert spoon of black pepper Rosemary leaves

1 Put the water, vinegar, salt, sugar in a saucepan and bring to boil. Put the red onion, coriander seeds, black pepper and rosemary in a bowl and add the liquid. Cover with cling film for 30 minutes. 2 Once cooled, pour the mixture into an airtight jar and leave it in the fridge for at least three hours before serving. There should be enough here to keep for other dishes, or with cheese.

meet the chef

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MAKE IT PLUS

Ana Carmo Costa and her team create delicious menus for events that range from elegant dinner parties at your home to corporate events and weddings at your chosen venue. Read more about Ana and her passion for food, on page 26.

F O R O U R O W N C A R E E R P AT H A N D S P E C I A L I N T E R E S T S B U T, AS A CONSUMER, FOR THE PRODUCTS WE FIND DESIRABLE . MEET ONE WOMAN WHO HAS MADE HER CHOICE AND DELIVERS S O M E T H I N G S E N S AT I O N A L E V E R Y T I M E

Wo rd s: S A N D R A G A T O

Where Art is craft

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W E A LW AY S H AV E C H O I C E S I N L I F E A N D T H AT G O E S N O T O N LY

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BY HAND PLUS

Every piece that comes out of the Rosa Diniz atelier is made by Rosa, and made completely by hand, and that includes the design, the cutting and the stitching. This is style, and great taste in timeless heritage works

BY HAND PLUS

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You are paying not only for superlative design and making, but for innovation and originality. Every bag, every accessory, every décor piece is a one off, made expressly for a particular client

ROM DANCE performer to making the most

satisfaction of achieving what I wanted by performing on stage,” she says. Add to that the fact that working in the arts does not pay well in Portugal, and a few years ago, in her forties, Rosa took the decision to change her way of life and move into a very different arena. She wanted to do something with her hands... a line of work where she could be creative and be her own boss in a field that was lucrative at the same time. She opened her first atelier in 2017 and the one where she is now – in Rua dos Poiais de São Bento, nº 44, Lisbon – in 2020. The confinement imposed by the COVID19 pandemic gave her the isolation she needed to learn – test, try, repeat – in her own time until she perfected the way she works the leather and stitches, all pieces by hand. Entering Rosa Diniz Atelier is having the chance of being face to face not only with some of her finished pieces but also to her work bench and display of materials and tools. All the leather used is Portuguese, it comes from Alcanena (near Santarém) and everything is made – entirely by hand – by Rosa herself. She works alone so she can guarantee the high quality she aims to deliver. Every single item is made to order – many only starting to take form after Rosa has had lengthy conversations with the client concerned, so that she can fully understand their lifestyle, personal taste and needs. Her portfolio includes handbags and weekenders, keyrings and coasters, leathered-bound notebooks and diaries and wallets, each with a unique design twist.

perfectly hand stiched belt, purse or weekend bag, Rosa Diniz found the best way to express her artistic spirit. Her atelier in Lisbon is testament to her talent and belief in the value of originality. In the 19th century, the Arts & Crafts movement was born from a reaction to the industrialization of decoration and fine arts that took place during the victorian era. The word ‘craft’ has since then been associated with pure manual work, as opposed to massification and factory labour. Rosa Diniz is taking the expression to another level, proving that art has many ways of manifestating itself. For her, craftsmanship is art, and that is why she describes herself as an artist and not an ‘artesã’ (craftswoman). And that is because all her life and work was and is about art. After graduating as Managing Producer from the National The best of everything Theatre and Film School in Lisbon, she had several jobs related Athough she totally respects what the client wants, Rosa always tries to culture and education. But, besides that, she also studied to make them choose what feels best and looks better. As the highly dance at the Portuguese National Conservatory and her personalised work that it is, every piece is an exclusive one. Even if occupation was that of dancer for a long time. you ask for a black weekender bag, the leather is never the same or But, along with the performative arts, Rosa always had an the way Rosa stitches it together. And that’s one of the reasons why so interest in the so-called Applied Arts, especially in the famous many people choose this kind of piece instead of buying classic luxury Arraiolos tapestry. Jewellery design and making was one of leather goods brands, like Louis Vuitton or Hermès. the other specialist areas that Rosa studied at the Escola “What I do is not cheap”, says Rosa, “The difference between buying Artística António Arroio. one of my bags or one from a well-known label is the certainty that I am not selling logos and that no one in the world will have a similar piece”. Exclusivity, artistry, craftsmanship. All that is yours. Either you buy A new chapter a small coin purse or a large briefcase. Rosa Diniz does not care about The intimate relation with all forms of art is obvious in her fashion trends, that is not what she does. She cares about making objects professional timeline; the big question is what made her that can last you a lifetime. And that is, for sure, sustainability at its best. change from a career in dancing to the leather handcrafting She is also not interested in growing her business and loosing her core that she is now famed for. values. Her clients (from all parts of the planet) not only get that, but they “First of all, you cannot dance professionally forever. actively choose that, over status and ostentation. But besides that, I always felt that I was not getting the

r o s a d i n i z a t e l i e r. c o m

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Reservations: 00 351 289 357 579

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In a stew GET TO KNOW THE LOCAL CUISINE AND YO U M I G H T F I N D YO U A R E I N FO R A T R E AT W I T H A M I X O F F L AV O U R S A N D T E X T U R E S T H AT A R E E V E R C H A N G I N G

Wo rd s: L A U R A S H E A

WARMERS PLUS

OLD NIGHTS call for comforting

food and nothing is more satisfying – and warming – than a flavour-filled stew. Here in Portugal we are spoiled for choice, with traditional dishes to which chefs add a signature twist. Local eateries offer their own versions of the best-loved stews, often incorporating whatever ingredients they have at the ready. The theme may be the same, but it’s those extras, like vegetables and herbs straight from the garden, that add a special individuality. Fancy DIY-ing it? The best part of learning to make these stews is knowing that practice makes perfect!

Opposite page: Don’t miss out on trying the stews in Spain; those with a tomato base are glorious. This page top: A hearty feijoada; above: Caldeirada

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A crowd pleaser for those fish lovers, the caldeirada is a traditional fisherman’s stew, combining any variety of fish and shellfish, which should provide different flavours and textures in one dish. Herbs and spices such as nutmeg and saffron, and white wine add a richness to the tomato and onion base. However, there are hundreds of different variations found across the country and it is all down to personal taste. If you are making this at home you can include more of your favourite fish, or have extra mussels and clams if that hits the spot! Experiment when you cook, find your favourite flavours and then you will have the ideal fish dish to offer up at a dinner party. Serve your Caldeirada with a crisp white wine and fresh crusty bread. feastingathome.com/portuguese-fish-stewcaldeirada/

CALDEIRADA

FEIJOADA You will have seen this dish on many menus, and if you are a fan then you know that the possibilities of this stew are endless. You can use any beans that you prefer, and the meat, although traditionally pork or beef, can also be chicken, fish (monkfish is a perfect fit) or can be vegetarian or vegan. The only thing that remains a constant is that the flavour is full bodied and puts a smile on your face. Most likely originating through a need to utilise as much meat from the pig as possible, this dish is similar to a French cassoulet, and the beans provide a lovely soft texture, as well as being filling. If you want to make a veggie friendly version, then use two different types of beans to mix up the textures and add cabbage and potatoes. There are very many excellent recipes. You could ask a Portuguese neighbour for their secret for a perfect feijoada, but if not try portugueserecipes.ca/recipe/1450/28/ portuguese-feijoada-recipe

WARMERS PLUS

DOBRADA Something for the slightly more adventurous out there, this tripe and bean stew is typical of Porto, but can be found in many restaurants in the Algarve. A true favourite in this country as well as Brazil, each restaurant will have its own version. The basis for Dobrada is tripe, white beans, carrots, onions, paprika and often a sausage such as chorizo or blood sausage. Some will have the addition of pork trotters or beef knuckle, too. Dating back to the 15th century, Dobrada is believed to have been developed as a tasty way to make use of tripe when other cuts of meat were much more expensive to buy. This is definitely a dish that I would suggest having when out – it is an acquired taste and tough to make at home to recreate the same quality. But if you’re ready for the challenge, check out photosandfood.ca/2018/12/18/dobradaportuguese-tripe-and-bean-stew/

ALGARVE P L U S

SPANISH STEWS

ARROZ DE TAMBORIL Monkfish can be such a versatile meat that it is no wonder it features in a couple of different, but equally delicious stews that you can find on a daily basis in restaurants everywhere. Arroz de Tamboril – monkfish rice – consists of a rich broth flavoured with a stock made using the entire fish. This is similar to a risotto, but less creamy and has much lighter broth. Tomatoes and white wine create a sauce that is packed full of taste yet has a delicate balance to it. Often you will find prawns included as these give a sweetness that is just divine. Another option to try, especially if you would rather avoid rice, is the monkfish, chorizo and bean stew. As with most of these dishes, everywhere will do it differently, but this dish is smoky and bold and like a big hug in a bowl. The fish can stand up to the strength of the chorizo and the beans give a creaminess to the stew, bulking it out. This is surprisingly easy to make at home and you could use kidney, butterbeans or even chickpeas. pipandlittleblue.com/2014/05/23/spanish-supper-monkfish-withquick-chorizo-butterbean-stew/

If you like to pop over to Seville for a weekend of sightseeing and tapas, as I do, then you may well have come across some fantastic stews while there. The sweet and tangy chickpea and prawn stew is often found as a tapas portion and is well worth a try with a crusty bread roll. Cooked in an aromatic and comforting sauce flavoured heavily with smoky paprika and passata, the prawns remain plump and moist whilst the chickpeas add a pleasant powdery aspect. Simple to whip up at home, this is a dish to make on a Saturday afternoon and then snuggle up on the sofa with a good movie. For a meatier dish, beef cheek stew is one of my favourites. Usually found in restaurants with a red wine-based sauce with onions, or a sherry flavoured sauce – both options are great served with mash potatoes and glazed carrots. When cooking at home, timing is key as you want the meat to fall apart and soak up the rich gravy. Here are two to try: rylandpeters.com/blogs/food-drink/ smoky-prawn-and-chickpea-stew and chefspencil.com/beef-cheeks-pedroximenez-recipe/

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Promises promises IT' S ALL VE RY WE LL VOWI N G TO MAK E CHAN G E WITH TH E N E W Y E A R , B U T H O W M A N Y P E O P L E J U S T F A N C Y T H E T H O U G H T AT T H E T I M E A N D T H E O N LY C H A N G E T H E Y M A K E I S T H E I R M I N D ?

“Like I said, not wanting to be in a situation for even an hour where I am not enjoying myself, I am ditching the dating apps from my phone. They’re not conducive to inner peace and happiness.” SALLY DIXON

MEINKE FLESSMAN

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“Actually, the two resolutions I made do not go together. I’ll explain. For me to avoid grape juice (aka wine), I’d need to stop working as a lot of my work involves covering social events where ‘Grape Juice’ is normally in abundance. So that isn’t going to happen for sure. And if I stop working, then the second part of that resolution of posting a random photo every day would not happen as random photos appear when I’m out on the job. So I’m guessing that one of mine will be broken, sadly, but let’s see what happens.” Daryl Gabin

“I’ve considered turning my living room into a theatre where every chair is subjected to a Shakespeare play. However, as I was given a Carcasonne extension pack, two Jigsaws and the Elon Musk biography for Christmas, I’m pretty much on track to keep my resolution! By the time 2024 is done every table in my home will have more stories to tell than a library.” Philippa Taylor

“There’s nothing quite like a January airline sale to be able to live out your New Year’s resolution of travelling more with the family. Flights booked to Berlin and New York.” KIM COLLEY

“My secret ingredient to achieve success is to be consistent. As part of my plan, I’ve implemented enough indulge-moments to keep myself going and fuel motivation on a daily basis.”

“I am delighted with my New Year’s resolution progress. For the first few days at least, I have honoured my promises - I have maintained my cheerful, positive state of mind, squeezing the juice enthusiastically out of each and every single day with great gusto, and reminding people around me that it might be their last. However, in so doing I have alienated eight good friends so far, and counting...” Sara Spalding

KAYLA MEIRINHO

RESOLUTIONS PLUS

“Resolution: Saying yes to bad ideas. They sometimes turn out OK. Keeping it: Every time I go through photos I’m reminded of fun moments I would have missed if I had said “no”. Exhibit A. So keep saying yes.”

“Did I say grow old gracefully? Probably not, eh? Ah yes, break age rules. In my own sporting way – a few triathlons, a sprinkling of half marathons, an ultra trail or two and a climb Snowdon –all doable and on the list.” Suzi Steinhofel

“I absolutely intend to keep my resolution and already have an epic African destination in mind.”

“My resolution for 2024 is alive and kicking, but it requires some investment. The time variety one, which is not easy to come by. The main purpose of learning a language is to speak – and hope you are understood at the same time! No amount of school will help if you don’t talk. I have met an Italian lady who, would you believe it, wants to practise Brazilian Portuguese, and we’re going to meet up regularly to help each other. And, with some luck, I’ll be able to speak Italian in February when I go and renew my Italian passport.” Adriana Bringuenti

Check out en.wikipedia. org/wiki/Ted_Lasso and you’ll be hooked, too.

“I have stopped counting how many calories there are in a slice - or three - of Bolo Rei. If I don’t know, I can’t fib about my intake.” SUSI ROGOL-GOODKIND

And more from others who are still resolving.... “I will not talk to, or shout at, the television.” EDUARDO COSTA

“Oscar Wilde wisely noted that ‘there is a fatality about good resolutions – that they are always made too late. They are simply checks that men draw on a bank where they have no account.’ I have made all my resolutions early, so that they can be broken sooner rather than later...” Ben Austin

I definitely need to relax more so my 2024 resolution is to turn into a cat! JILL ECKERSLEY

“I am going to exercise for at least an hour every day, first thing in the morning, regardless of late nights, an over-indulgence in wine, and too much chocolate. Actually, maybe I’ll exercise at night so I can stay in bed late in the mornings.” Elaine Joyce

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CHRISTINA MORENO

“Not only did I manage to find and fall for Ted Lasso (not on Netflix but Apple TV+), but I’ve actually been staying up late to watch him, too! 2024, and this girl is just getting started!”

LUIS NASCIMENTO

N E W TAV I R A S T O R E ~ N O W O P

Toldolanda

the awning specialist

toldolanda.com 914609517

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established 1985

PINETREES

New Year, new start!

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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.

A great way to exercise in the sunshine

F U R N I T U R E • D E C O R AT I O N • L I G H T I N G • O U T D O O R L I V I N G • I N T E R I O R D E S I G N • C Located between Vale de Lobo and Quinta do Lago Tel: + (351) 289 394 369 | + (351) 919 363 190 | bevpinetrees@gmail.com | www.pinetrees.pt | Bev Gibbons, BHS Int. Teaching Certi cate |

Pinetrees Riding

Oliveira, Tavira ~ Love your home? Why compromi

For Coffee Lovers

Café bean17, in the Mercado of Loulé, is a gem – not only because of the houseroasted espresso or cappuccino or the www.byoliveira.com organic kombucha or the wonderful

home-baked cakes,8800-318 but also the New Store Address: Rua Almirante Candido dos Reis, 243, Tavira, (Next for door to the Gran Plaza coffee and more freshly roasted organic arabica coffee Call: 962 379 584 Email: decor@byoliveira.com beans from @Peru and Ethiopia that you @ OliveiraDecor Oliveirafurniture can buy. And the new SAGE espressomachine

and

Eureka

coffee-grinders

are available at a discount in the bean17 roastery. Make an appointment to see them with Ilona in the café or email jmtromp@mac.com. bean17coffee

bean17coffeeandmore

READS PLUS

PEN

FULLY booked

ise?

a Shopping Centre)

Book of the month

COMMERCIAL SERVICES

By Edward Marston Publisher: Allison & Busby Genre: Historical fiction

This book left me feeling slightly uncomfortable. The love story between Rose and her young man, Obi, begins in Nigeria in the1920s and continues into 1990. Politics, independence and class combine in this terribly sad story. The story is not about colonialisation or the negative impact certain British policies had upon the Nigerian people; but the indignity and hardships suffered by the indigenous people is only too apparent. Obi is too inexperienced to realise the injustice of his world prior to joining the army and being shipped to Burma during the Second World War. He observes and ponders upon why the African regiments which fought alongside the British are paid less and are the last to return home. Rose and Obi love one another from early childhood but their lives take different paths as they become adults. Rose leaves the family compound and the village to travel to Lagos to become a nurse. Obi enlists and becomes a career soldier. Eventually, circumstances dictate that the difference in their social status, their family objections and Rose’s own misgivings are overruled and the couple marry. A tale of hardship, keeping up appearances and a glimpse into the effects of colonialisation.

A murder mystery set in 1669 London. The aftermath of the Plague and the Great Fire of London is the setting for this story of murder, intrigue and love. In the grip of the coldest winter for years, the River Thames is frozen from bank to bank and London celebrates with a traditional frost fair held on its broad back. Revellers come from far and wide to enjoy the spectacle. Among the throng is ambitious young architect Christopher Redmayne. By chance, he meets a good friend, Constable Jonathan Bale, attending with his family. As the adults talk, Bale’s sons skate around them. But their competitive nature spells trouble onto thin ice and one of them is in danger of crashing into the freezing water below. Christopher and Jonathan save the boy but make a chilling discovery – the frozen corpse of a naked man embedded in the ice. Bale vows to investigate but Christopher sees no reason to involve himself further until his own brother Henry is accused of the murder and thrown in jail. Now Henry faces execution if Christopher cannot prove his innocence. The architect must risk all he holds dear, both professionally and personally, to uncover the truth.

THE FROST FAIR

By Rosanna Amaka Publisher: Penguin Genre: Love and war

ALGARVE PLUS

ROSE AND THE BURMA SKY

G H A S TLY G H OS TLY S TO R I ES A N D TH R I L L ER S S E T I N TH E D I S TA NT PA S T H AV E K EPT O U R DAW N A N N A N DA LE B U SY I N TH E PA S T M O NTH , D ES P ITE A L L TH AT Y E A R EN D PA RT Y I N G . M I N D YO U, WITH A TR AV EL B O O K TH AT P RO M I S ES TO B U I L D YO U R B U C K E T LI S T, A N D A CO O K ERY B O O K TH AT WI L L A L LOW YO U TO M A K E SAV I N G S TH AT C A N G O TOWA R DS TH OS E TR AV EL COS TS , IT ' S A P R E T T Y G O O D S TA RT TO 2 024

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READS PLUS

1000 THINGS TO DO IN EUROPE

THE SPITE HOUSE

By Robert Lindsey Publisher: Independently published Genre: Travel

By Johnny Compton Publisher: Tor Nightfire Genre: Horror

Whether you’re an avid explorer seeking new adventures or a first-time traveller looking to experience the best that Europe has to offer, this book is your key to unlocking the heart and soul of this diverse and culturally-rich continent. From strolling through historic cobblestone streets to indulging in worldrenowned cuisine, this guide will lead you to unforgettable experiences at every corner. Explore major cities like Paris, Rome and Barcelona, or venture off the beaten path to lesser-known destinations. You can craft your dream itinerary with diverse options to suit your style of travel. Each entry provides a concise yet vivid description of the activity, site, or experience, allowing you to visualize your upcoming adventure. Practical information such as opening hours and location ensures you’re well-prepared for your explorations.

Eric Ross is on the run from a mysterious past with his two daughters in tow. Having left his wife, his house, his whole life behind in Maryland, he’s desperate for money – it’s not easy to find safe work when you can’t provide references, you can’t stay in one place for long, and you’re paranoid that your past is creeping back up on you. When he comes across the strange ad for the Masson House in Degener, Texas, Eric thinks it may be a lucky break. The Masson property, notorious for being one of the most haunted places in Texas, needs a caretaker of sorts – the owner is looking for proof of paranormal activity. All they need to do is stay in the house and keep a detailed record of everything that happens there. Provided the house’s horrors don’t drive them all mad, like the caretakers before them. The job appeals to Eric, not just because there’s a huge payout if they can make it through, but because he wants to explore the secrets of the spite house. If it is indeed haunted, maybe it’ll help him understand the uncanny power that clings to his family, driving them from town to town, making them afraid to stop running. A terrifying Gothic thriller about grief and death and the depths of a father’s love, Johnny Compton’s The Spite House is a stunning debut by a horror master in the making.

FEED YOUR FAMILY FOR UNDER A FIVER By Mitch Lane Publisher: Thorsobs Genre: Cookery Feed a family of four for under £5 with this essential new cookbook -– no fancy equipment, skills or ingredients required! This is the debut cookbook from TikTok sensation Mitch Lane, saving your family’s mealtimes, and your budget. Mitch Lane AKA @mealsbymitch is one of the UK’s most-loved home cooks, providing quality budget recipes and helping families up and down the country to cope with the cost-of-living crisis. This book is packed full of easy, comforting, crowdpleasing recipes that anyone can make on a budget, no matter your experience. Mitch set himself the challenge of walking into the supermarket with a fiver and coming out with everything he needed to make a meal, which he does incredibly successfully.

THE YEAR OF THE LOCUST By Terry Hayes Publisher: Bantam Genre: Espionage The Year of the Locust revolves around a CIA spy named Kane, who is sent to the badlands, where the borders of Pakistan, Iran, and Afghanistan meet, to extract a man with vital information for the safety of the West. However, he meets an adversary who will take the world to the brink of extinction. Excellent characterisation, plot and all the required twists and turns. I really enjoyed this book because it’s snappy, descriptive where necessary, and politically informative. The world stage seems constantly on the edge of terrible man-made disasters and this book explores the differences between men and the possible consequences of greed and prejudice. Highly recommended.

The family-run Amesbury Abbey Group offers an elegant retirement in country house style at Monte da Palhagueira. For those who are looking for the reassurance of constant professional care, our nursing care may be the way forward. Alongside all the beneﬁts of residential care, our nursing care adds the additional security of 24-hour care provision from qualiﬁed nursing professionals. Our team spend a lot of time getting to know each resident as an individual, learning their preferences and understanding their concerns, working hand in hand with GPs and other associated care professionals to provide outstanding personalised nursing care.

NURSING CARE

Our exceptional care team treat all our residents with respect, dignity and friendship, and our nursing home has a warm, family atmosphere. Each individual aspect of our nursing care is designed to give our residents the best possible quality of life and the highest standards of 24-hour care.

Here when you need us

For further information, please contact Senior Sister Hazel Gordon at T: +351 289 990 900 E: mdpnursinghome@amesburyabbey.com Monte da Palhagueira, Gorjôes, 8005-488 Santa Barbara de Nexe, Algarve www.retirementvillageportugal.co.uk

No 1 on the Algarve for Synthetic Grass Solutions. We strive for perfection and only deliver the best.

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Since 2005 Grasshopper Greens has completed over 1500 projects in the Algarve. We are a specialist team, fully experienced in all areas of Synthetic Grass installation, offering you full design and fitting. Putting Greens l Lawns l Tennis Courts l Football Pitches l Mini Golf Playing Areas l Roof Terraces l Leisure & Sporting Areas Mobile: (+351) 910 365 071 l Office Tel: (+351) 289 093 387 l info@grasshoppergreens.com

GARDENING PLUS

Short back and sides T I M E FO R A T R I M ? P E R F E C T YO U R S T Y L E I N T H E G A R D E N A N D G E T YO U R P L A N T I N G I N TO S H A P E FO R T H E Y E A R A H E A D . A N D R E M E M B E R , O R N AT E S C U L P T U R I N G I S N O T N E C E S S A R I LY T H E B E S T L O O K T O D AY

Wo rd s: B U R F O R D H U R R Y

ALGARVE P L U S

Left to right: staying in shape, Chamaerops humilis, au naturel so as to display its beautiful fronds; a pomegranate, after years of careful pruning; delightful Euphorbia characias, trimmed to sit beneath a candle plant; Salvia canariensis (Canary Island sage), which can grow to two metres if not pruned back

O TRIM or not to trim? And then how to trim?

These are some of the questions faced by the home gardener. It is a natural occurrence in nature – branches break off in the wind, leaves change colour and drop, drought and heat prevent or stunt growth. However, when I drive through the Algarvian countryside something in me winces when I look at the poor poodled olive trees, trimmed like their namesake, that thrust their unfortunate limbs and heads above fences with their smooth naked trunks, legs and arms and pubic bunches of leaves. Somehow, I don’t think in summer they will wear a nest of robins in their hair (apologies to Joyce Kilmer – see his words overleaf). Of course, one never knows, nature is extremely resourceful and it would be wonderful if they did. All I do know is that there is nothing that can beat the look of a sprawling silver green, exuberant celebration of olive leaves in a garden. With the additional knowledge that she will provide a haven for a smoky grey dove or a leafy home for a gold finch or blackbird family.

Snip away Don’t get me wrong, I am not against snipping and trimming. Most of my gardening life I have done just that. It is when topiary is carried to extremes that I grimace, especially when it speaks of control rather than revealing the beauty of a plant or shrub. Having said that,

sometimes severe shearing of plants can look very attractive. Think of rosemary (Salvia rosmarinus) shorn close and in flower splashing and eddying in blue around rocks. There may be other reasons for hard trimming as well. I have a small miniature myrtle (Myrtus communis) who I have given a very severe lateral and horizontal haircut. I did that because she is growing in a bed just in front of my private dancer, an ordinary pomegranate, which after years of selective trimming swirls her skirt of glossy green leaves around her ankles and bares her shoulders to the sky. I wanted the myrtle to underline and draw the viewer’s attention to the dancer. On the other hand, I have done nothing to a reindeerhorn euphorbia (Euphorbia enterophora) next to my dancer. The euphorbia leans drunkenly in front of my dancer, untouched since the day she fell awkwardly to one side in her large pot. Her outstretched fingered branches contribute to the movement of the shrub behind her. Also untouched except for the removal of dead fronds, is the dancer’s nearby neighbour, my mediterranean palm (Chamaerops humilis). Her dark green fronds remain because I want her to display a fountain of fronds and not become an ordinary

GARDENING PLUS

stationary palm with a trunk and a military agenda. Something else, an old female carob (Ceratonia silique) dominates my top terrace and her branches are severely trimmed back every March. As a result, she has a distinctive cloche shape. This is not done for aesthetic reasons, but because carobs provide the best and coolest shade of any local tree, she is trimmed to increase the density of her summer shade. Unfortunately, carobs are also notorious for losing branches which, being brittle and heavy, snap off often killing or injuring anyone beneath them, so her annual trim also avoids that.

ALGARVE P L U S

Early learning My fascination with trimming goes back to when I was a ten-year old and living in a small house with garden in a suburb of Johburg, South Africa. One morning, our neighbour took me aside and using her gold privet hedge (Euonymus japonica aurea) showed me what happens when you pinch out the leading leaves on a shoot. In no time a shrub becomes part of a hedge. It was one of the occasions in a garden when nature proposes, man disposes. So, at very young age I learnt that gardeners do have a say in the way a plant grows. Since then, I have used my secateurs as well as the nails of my thumb and forefinger for all kinds of trimming of plants and for all sorts of reasons. My most recent snipping was on some Mediterranean spurges (Euphorbia characias), which I have planted beneath a candle plant (Kleinia senecio). I wanted the candle plant to dominate the group and the spurges to splash up around her feet. Mind you, a couple of years ago I had trimmed the candle plant by pinching out the tips of her five grey green trunks so I now have seventeen soft green rosettes of leaves all at different heights above her stiff grey green branches. Next to her, I have a young and enthusiastic Canary Island sage (Salvia canariensis) which can grow up to two metres tall and which I would like to keep very low so I have ruthlessly pinched out all her leading shoots and will continue to do more snipping over the next few months. On a more practical level, all gardeners are faced with what to do with the leaves and shoots of a growing shrub or a tree. In nature, wind and wild weather and even drought ensure that plants don’t grow TREES as quickly and vigorously as BY JOYCE KILMER (1913) those in our gardens. The current fashion with I think that I shall never see most landscape gardeners A poem lovely as a tree. is to get hold of the electric A tree whose hungry mouth is prest trimmer to ensure that the Against the earth’s sweet flowing breast; garden is filled with globes of different coloured leaves A tree that looks at God all day, and sizes. One sees them and And lifts her leafy arms to pray; thinks of a plastic lego land – perfect in junior’s bedroom but A tree that may in summer wear out of place in a garden. A nest of robins in her hair; The alternative is more time consuming but more attractive. Upon whose bosom snow has lain; This takes some thought. First Who intimately lives with rain. think about what role the plant Poems are made by fools like me, plays in the garden. Will she But only God can make a tree. be the star of a focal point? If so, which part of the shrub needs to be accentuated? Her

Kleinia senecio, also known as a candle plant, can be trimmed by pinching out the tips of each ‘trunk’

branches, her leaves or her flowers? How will you achieve the effect you are looking for? By removing a branch or a leaf or two? Which branch or leaves? Do you want her to look plumper? If so, you will have to ensure you snip off the tips of shoots. Perhaps you would like your shrub to be part of a background of different leaves in a herbaceous border. Snipping her into a ball will certainly not do that. Here the trick is to select and then cut back hard a few of the leading shoots to the main stem in the shrub, leaving the shorter ones in between to give bulk.

Trees company For shade I planted a fiddlewood (Citharexylum quadrangulare) next to my cypress trees when I began the garden. Why a fiddlewood? Because it is a delightful small tree with sweet smelling racemes of white flowers and with bright and generous, glossy green leaves, which have gold and autumnal colours in summer. This is also a tree that has airy spaces between the branches and leaves, which gives her an ethereal look. Having said all that it was not the best choice as she tends to shoot skywards with skinny perpendicular branches, rather than sideways. To get shade while she was still growing, I lopped off all her skyrocketing branches, leaving just the ones growing laterally. Shade I now have and in summer I leave her generous gift of fallen leaves on the ground beneath her to make a rich compost. These are some suggestions on how to tackle trimming in the garden. From thoughtful shearing to selective trimming, we will be applying in life what happens to plants in the wild where over the years soil, rain, wind and heat have controlled their growth. Think of the natural look of wild pistachios in the campo, the sideways easterly facing tips of the cypress trees in the Alameda Gardens in Faro, and the closely shorn carpets of gorgeous wild flowers and bushes around Sagres. The difference is you will have achieved in a reasonably short time what nature would have taken years to do. In addition, you will have created a natural habitat, which will more than satisfy both the viewer and the animals, insects and birds that choose to live there.

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Goal Digger A G OAL D I G G E R IS SO M EO N E WH O S E TS G OAL S AN D P UTS TH E TI M E A N D E F FO R T I N TO M A K I N G T H E M H A P P E N . H E R E ’ S H OW YO U C A N H E L P YO U R S E L F TO AC H I E V E YO U R G OA L S A N D G E T 2 024 U P A N D R U N N I N G

Wo rd s: S A L L Y D I X O N

ERE WE ARE, January 1st, the day when good intentions get a rocket start. But what determines whether that rocket reaches its destination or fizzles out mid-flight path? Fitness goals are always high on the list of ‘new year, new me’ good intentions. They’re also high on the list of failures come the end of the month, or even by mid-month according to some statistics. The exercise wagon is an easy one to fall off, it seems. So easy that in 2019 the location data app Foursquare used previous data to predict a day in February (usually the second Friday or Saturday) to be “Fall Off the Wagon Day” – a day that marked the intersection of gym attendances falling and fastfood purchases rising. So, if you make it past February and you’re still exercising then pat yourself on the back, you’ll have done better than most.

With February still a little way off, how can we glide through Fall Off the Wagon Day without so much as a wobble, and see our new year exercise goals through to spring? First thing on the list would be to read through the last few issues of Algarve PLUS (if you don’t have hard copies, you can go the digital route at algarveplusmagazine.com) and our fitness-focused features, to remind yourself just how beneficial different forms of exercise are to health and longevity!

Set realistic goals If you’ve set yourself a goal such as ‘start exercising’ or ‘lose five kilos in a month’ you’re more likely to bundle off the proverbial wagon fairly quickly. Can you reframe your goal to be more realistic and with more purpose? Something more along the lines of ‘start exercising to improve energy levels’, ‘start exercising to manage weight’ or ‘start exercising to improve health and longevity’?

READY MADE Check out what is available at key resorts. The Campus in Quinta do Lago (thecampusqdl.com) offers a big range of keep fit options, as does Vale do Lobo (valedolobo.com/en/active-living). Local gyms could be an answer for those who need that bit of discipline but if walking is more to your taste check out portugalwalks.com/guided-walks-algarve/

Slogging away at a sport or exercise regime you just don’t like is a sure-fire way to say goodbye to those new year goals pretty swiftly.

ALGARVE P L U S

SHAP E UP PLUS

Find something you love Slogging away at a sport or exercise regime you just don’t like is a sure-fire way to say goodbye to those new year goals pretty swiftly. If you’ve given it your best shot and are hating it, then mix it up and move on. Try new ways of working out, explore a variety of exercises, different sports, fitness classes, outdoor activities, walking groups, and find one that resonates with you. More importantly, enjoy the process. It’s easier to stay committed to a goal when you enjoy what you’re doing.

Exercise with a friend or group Who might be a willing workout buddy ready to smash those exercise goals with you? Research shows we’re more likely to stay focused on our goals when supported by others. Accountability is half the battle when it comes to sticking to your goals.

Create SMART action steps SMART stands for Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Realistic, Timely. Instead of making a goal of “I’m going to start playing tennis”, make it SMART by saying, “I’m going to play tennis twice a week on Tuesday and Friday mornings, for one hour with my friend.” Next step is to get it booked in and in the diary. Prioritise exercise as you would any other appointments. This also makes it easier to track your progress and feel a sense of achievement when you look back and see what you’ve already accomplished.

Dig deep into self-control Whether you’ve heard it takes 21 days or 30 days to form a habit, the truth is that everyone is different when it comes to automaticity and especially with something as complex as exercise. A 2009 study looked into how habits are formed and how long it takes, using either an eating, drinking or activity-based behaviour given to university students. The study found it takes an average of 66 days before a new activity becomes automatic and is often linked to a cue. As an example, that could be going for a 20-minute walk after breakfast – breakfast being the cue. Sixty-six days is a fair amount of time to ingrain a habit, proving that self-control is needed for a little while before automaticity kicks in and that new activity starts to feel like a regular part of your life. So, if you make it past the end of February with your new year, new exercise goals then you’re doing alright, goal digger!

Reference Lally, P., van Jaarsveld, C. H. M., Potts, H. W. W., & Wardle, J. (2009). How are habits formed: Modelling habit formation in the real world. European Journal of Social Psychology, 40(6), 998–1009. https://doi.org/10.1002/ejsp.674

WE LOOK FORWARD TO CELEBRATING A NEW YOU.

Jim

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HERE IN PORTUGAL , EPIPHANY HAS ITS ECCENTRICITIES , AND ITS OWN TR ADITIONS T H AT Y O U W I L L N O T F I N D E L S E W H E R E . S I N G I N G , SWIMMING AND THE SWEETNESS OF CAKE

Wo rd s: C A R O L Y N K A I N

PIPHANY IS one of the three most important religious festivals in the

Christian calendar, along with Easter and Christmas. It is a celebration of the Magi’s visit to the baby Jesus and the baptism of Jesus by John the Baptist. So what makes the celebration of Epiphany different here? Well, for a start, between Christmas Day and Epiphany (The Twelve Days of Christmas) we have groups of ‘charolas’ going from house to house, singing Janeiras (New Year’s carols). In most countries the height of the festive season is over, but in Portugal it isn’t. Like traditional carol singers, the charolas knock on the door, warble a few lines of a seasonal song and expect to be rewarded with a tit-bit to eat, a glass of brandy or some money. Janeiras have pagan roots when the rhyming verses called on Janus, the ancient Roman god, to ward off evil spirits. Standing at the entrance door to the forthcoming year, the figure of Janus had two faces that could look both back at the past and into the future. In due course, traditions that surrounded him Top: Charolas go door to door were assimilated into Christianity and Janeiras became with their version of Christmas associated with the Three Kings, to be sung between 25 songs. Above: An ancient coin with December and 6 January. Janus’s head looking back and forth

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like no others

twelfth night

DIFFERENT PLUS

For the poorest members of society begging was a humiliating experience whereas being a charola was not. The gifts of food and wine were gratefully received and to flatter wealthy homeowners the words of the songs were made up to include them by name. Chestnuts, apples, smoked sausages and black puddings were favourite items handed out to the needy. There is another oddity connected with foodstuffs eaten at Epiphany. It’s very common in Portugal for streets to be named after famous people but rarely is that honour bestowed upon a cake. Hear me out... After the demise of the monarchy in 1910, Republicans became sensitive to the mention of the word rei, meaning king. In the view of republican hardliners, the cake Bolo Rei, traditionally eaten at Epiphany, needed to be renamed. After all, a similar cake, with a similar name, was banned in France after the Revolution. In Portugal, as a tribute to the newly democratically elected president, it was suggested that Bolo Rei should become Bolo Presidente Arriaga. Some pastry shops exercised their sense of humour naming it ‘Ex-Bolo Rei’ and others called it ‘Bolo Nacional’ and ‘Bolo de Natal.’ It is a measure of the Republicans paranoia that ‘Bolo Rei’ was merely a cake that had nothing to do with the Portuguese king who had abdicated three months earlier. Nevertheless, the cake’s crown shape and colourful candied fruit resembling jewels continued to be an unwelcome reminder of the monarchy. Ironically, whatever the Christmas carols and cards suggest, the reference to the Three Kings of the New Testament is also incorrect. In the Gospel, according to Matthew, they are called Magi. Yes, the Magi were regarded as wise and it was their self-appointed task to look into the future by reading the night sky, but there is nothing to indicate that they were three in number or that any one of them was a king. Don’t tell this to the Spanish who hold huge processions led by three kings on 5 January, the eve of Epiphany. The spectacular parade held just across the border in Ayamonte wends its way through the old town but its roots are probably fictitious.

It’s very common in Portugal for streets to be named after famous people but rarely is that honour bestowed upon a cake.

ALGARVE P L U S

Below: The traditional Bolo Rei, packed with nuts and fruit – even Aldi produces its own version. Bottom: The Russian Orthodox church takes to the Douro river in Porto to get a blessing

What’s more, it’s a fanciful idea that the Magi were following a star and arrived at the stable in Bethlehem on the twelfth night after Jesus was born. Throughout the Christian world it is customary to remove decorations on that date but there is no real reason why. Some academics claim the Magi paid their respects to Jesus two years after his birth. In Portugal, many people feel disinclined to dismantle their Christmas tree on Twelfth Night and they should not feel obliged to do so. There is no law to say they have to! However, on a more serious note, there is a rule about the baking of Bolo Rei. Instated in Portugal in 1999, take note of this directive! It involves the custom of putting small ornaments into the cake mixture. In many countries, not just Portugal, the nobility might include tiny porcelain figures, religious crosses or gold and silver charms. Naturally, when eating the cake, everyone was cautious not to swallow such desirable objects. In poorer households these trinkets were substituted by a single dry bean and the person who received the slice containing the bean was obliged to provide the Bolo Rei for the following Epiphany. A harmless tradition, or so you might think, but the Health and Safety Executive knew better. It hadn’t been recorded that anyone inadvertently choked when eating the cake or deliberately swallowed the bean to avoid bringing next year’s cake! Nevertheless, a hazard was identified. ‘Perigoso!’ If by chance a dried bean was swallowed moisture from the bronchi could cause it to suddenly swell thereby creating a dangerous or even deadly obstruction. Hence in Portugal, putting a dried bean into a ‘Bolo Rei’ has been banned. Epiphany also has a number of traditions involving water as a reflection of Jesus’ baptism. Many devotees will swim in the sea as part of a service held on the beach or by a river.

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Title Azulejo Cherub Where Chapel of Our Lady of the Conception (Ermida de Nossa Senhora da Conceição) When June 2023 Camera Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra What’s Special “Portugal is rightly famed for its azulejo art. I was interested in how the many cherubs depicted are actually incorporated into the ‘architecture’ of the piece and how the 18th-century artists worked with perspective and framing.”

subject matter For 2024, we have tasked members of the Algarve Photographers Group with a fresh challenge – to submit images under a pre-agreed heading. This month, the subject we chose is ‘Tiles’, and these are the images that stood out

FRED BOS Title Coat of Arms Where: Seville, Spain When: March 2022 Camera Used: Panasonic FZ8 What’s special: “Heraldry Flags will fade and fall apart, but wall tiles will remain for as long as the building. Memories of the ruling powers of the past and their sturdy castles.”

To a p p l y f o r m e m b e r s h i p o r c h e c k e x h i b i t i o n d a te s a t t h e M u s e u d o Tr a j e , S ã o B r á s , v i s i t a l g a r v e p h o t o g r a p h e r s g r o u p . o r g

DARYL GABIN Title Freshly Made Where São Brás Terracotta Factory When February 2023 Camera Canon R6 What’s Special “It’s not every day that you get to see tiles made from scratch.”

BINA CLINE

ALGARVE P L U S

Title Panorama do Pinhão Where Pinhão Railway Station When August 2018 Camera Apple iPhone 7 Plus What’s special “It is a beautiful rendition of a view of the Douro Valley”

MARIJKE MCBEAN Title Roof Tiles Where Tavira When February 2022 Camera Sony ILCE-6000 What’s Special “The use of roof tiles on the walls of this building.”

Tucked away at the top of Scandinavia on the northern edge of Europe, it’s easy to forget that Norway’s even there. But for those who’ve been, this majestic land of fjords and mountains is utterly unforgettable. For a long time the post ship route from Bergen to the North Cape was on my bucket list of destinations and finally I was lucky enough to see the Polar lights, step into ankle high snow and thanks to my woolly hat and Alpaca sweater I was able to stay longer on the outside deck. In case you also plan to sail up North I am happy to provide you with more information and an Alpaca sweater :)

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S TAY I N G I N T O U C H W I T H F A M I LY A N D F R I E N D S I S A L L- I M P O R TA N T W H E N YO U S P E N D LOT S O F T I M E A B R OA D . V I D EO C O N F E R E N C I N G I S M U C H M O R E S AT I S F Y I N G T H A N T H E O L D - S T Y L E D O G A N D B O N E , A N D B E C A U S E I T I S C A R R I E D O V E R T H E I N T E R N E T, I T I S F R E E

Wo rd s: C H R I S P A R T R I D G E

HERE ARE downsides of course to

videoconferencing – you have to learn the etiquette and get your brain round the software, but this is not exactly challenging. There are also some tricks and techniques to presenting yourself on screen to the best effect. Step one is to choose the right videoconferencing service, taking into consideration the needs of everyone in the group. Ensure that everyone has the same platform to avoid compatibility issues. Sometimes the choice is dictated by one of the members being a subscriber to a particular platform already, especially if they pay for a package that enables everyone to join in for as long as you like. Otherwise, you may have to accept some limitations for a free service. Popular choices include Zoom, Microsoft Teams, Google Meet, Apple FaceTime and Skype.

Your choice Zoom became everyone’s favourite during the pandemic and

while it has lost market share it remains an easy-to-use and robust choice. Free calls are limited to 40 minutes and up to 100 people can join in. Google Meet allows 100 people to chat for an hour for free, and if talking for free is important to you, Skype (a Microsoft service) has limits that are so generous you will only reach them by talking all day (and even then Skype does not cut you off like Zoom does – it simply goes audio-only). Apple FaceTime is limited to 32 people but has no time limit but the drawback to FaceTime is that the app runs on iOS only so at least one participant must have an iPhone and be prepared to moderate the call. Which leaves Microsoft Teams. This is a professional platform and is not loved by many of its users. Avoid. The next step is to check your internet has a stable, highspeed connection is crucial for a smooth video call. You want to hear and see everything. Consider using a wired connection for better reliability if your wifi is a bit dodgy (although if you have dodgy wifi you might use the need for a good videoconferencing

ALGARVE P L U S l

Catch-up calls

TECHNO PLUS

experience as an excuse to upgrade). If you still get loss of picture or audio, close unnecessary applications and devices that may consume bandwidth during calls.

ALGARVE P L U S

Looking the part While it is not necessary to build a TV studio in your house to make excellent video calls, it is well worthwhile investing some time and a bit of cash in the technology to provide the best picture. First off, pick a location with a nice background and raise the camera to just above eye level. This will avoid those up-the-nose shots featuring your living room ceiling. An added benefit is that you will be angling your head slightly upwards to prevent those double chins forming. The best way to do this is to mount your device (laptop, phone or tablet) on a stand. A gazillion designs are on the market, ranging from stands that lift your laptop off the desk, to freestanding tripods that hold your phone in place in front of your easy chair. If people are using phones or tablets, try and get them to mount their devices horizontally to send a landscape picture – this almost inevitably looks better and all the images stack on everyone’s screens better. Next, look at the lighting. Don’t sit in front of a window as you will appear as a dark patch in a sea of light, like ET. Do ensure there is plenty of light as digital cameras are

poor in semi-darkness. If you wear glasses, try and position the lights so as to minimise distracting reflections. There are many LED lighting units available that are designed to provide lots of soft illumination. You may well need to invest in a good quality webcam for clearer video as they are almost inevitably better than the cameras in laptops. Phones and tablets are usually much better – do a few tests to gauge results. If audio quality is poor, use a reliable microphone or headphones with a built-in microphone to enhance audio quality. Again, mobile phones and tablets are usually much better than laptops for audio. The Anker C300 webcam is particularly suitable for family videoconferencing because it uses AI to widen the image if you are appearing as a couple, as well as adjusting the focus. It includes a pair of high quality microphones and provides full HD video quality. All for €101 at amazon.es.

Raise the camera to just above eye level to avoid those up-the-nose shots featuring your living room ceiling.

Check mate

Ensure your computer meets the system requirements of the chosen videoconferencing platform. Conduct a test call before starting actual meetings to identify and address any technical issues. Check your camera, microphone, and speakers to ensure everything is functioning correctly, and check that your videoconferencing platform or app is updated to the latest version to benefit from the bug fixes and performance improvements that are developed regularly. Adjust video settings based on your internet speed. If the connection is slow, consider lowering the video quality to prevent lagging. It is a very good idea to familiarise yourself with features such as using the mute button, screen sharing, virtual backgrounds, and chat options. Locate the button that displays the view you want, either showing the current speaker only or all participants, and whether you are there too so you can check you remain in shot. In calls, it may be useful to remind participants to mute their microphones when not speaking to reduce background noise, while remembering to unmute yourself when it’s your turn to talk. You need to be organised to get the best results. Have a backup communication plan in case of technical difficulties. Share alternative contact methods in case someone experiences connectivity issues.

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WHERE NOW PLUS

ASLI ENVER

Whatever happened to… S U C C E S S D I D N ’ T C O M E I M M E D I AT E LY F O R M A N Y O F T O D AY ’ S B E T T E R - K N O W N F A C E S , B U T W H E N I T D I D . . . B O Y, I T W A S B I G T I M E . G O O D T O K N O W I S T H AT M A N Y A R E A P P R E C I AT I V E , A N D C O M M I T T E D T O G I V I N G B A C K T O S O C I E T Y T O D AY

Wo rd s: J I L L E C K E R S L E Y

HARRISON FORD

70s

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The London-born Turkish actress is best known for her roles in a number of highly-successful Turkish TV series and especially the 300+ episode The Bride of Istanbul. Asli couldn’t speak a word of Turkish when she went to live in the country with her parents at the age of 12 but she studied hard and attended Halic University to obtain her degree in theatre. In a recent magazine interview she admitted that she suffers from dyslexia and often asks fellow performers to read a script for her before memorising it. She is a singer as well as an actress and won a song contest as a teenager. One of her most successful early roles was in the Turkish remake of Dawson’s Creek – known as Kavak Yelleri in 2007. Ten years later she won Best Actress at the Pantene Golden Butterfly Awards. Asli had a series of well-publicised romances and is now married to Turkish businessman Berkin Gokbudak and living in Istanbul. She put her acting career on hold for a while this year and announced the arrival of her first baby – a little girl, Elay – in July.

One of this century’s genuine Hollywood superstars, with movies that are said to have grossed more than US$9million worldwide, Harrison Ford once almost gave up acting to become a carpenter. Not a high-achiever in school or on the sports field, he studied acting and worked in summer stock, the US equivalent of rep, before appearing in small roles on TV in the ‘70s while becoming a qualified carpenter. His luck changed after American Graffiti in 1973, and especially when he landed the part of Han Solo in Star Wars. Raiders of the Lost Ark followed in 1981 and the Oscar and Golden Globe nominations came thick and fast. Director Steven Spielberg quipped: “Harrison really IS Indiana Jones!” after the star actually ran across a rope bridge “to test its safety”! Harrison is a qualified pilot of both fixed-wing aircraft and helicopters. An emergency landing in 2015 left him hospitalised with serious injuries but he made a good recovery. He keeps his collection of planes at Santa Monica airport and has been called upon to assist the emergency services on rescue missions several times. He owns an 800-acre ranch in Wyoming, half of which is a nature reserve. He is passionate about conservation, is Vice-Chair of Conservation International and actually has a spider and an ant named after him! Married three times, the last time to actress Calista Flockhart, he has five children.

00's

Have you ever wondered how parents – mostly mothers, of course – carried their children around before the invention of the ‘perambulator’, otherwise known as a pram, baby carriage, stroller, pushchair or, most recently, buggy? Medieval paintings show women with small children clinging to their backs or bound to their chests in cloth slings. The earliest reference to any kind of pram came in 1733 when the Duke of Devonshire asked an inventor named William Kent to devise some way of carrying small children around. Kent came up with a shell-shaped basket on wheels which was intended to be pulled along by a goat or small pony, rather than pushed by adults – although it soon became a task performed by servants. By the Victorian era, ‘baby carriages’ had become popular among the betteroff in the United States as well as Europe. Queen Victoria, as a mother of nine, is known to have bought at least three ‘perambulators’ – a term which was used by the 1850s. Victorian era prams were heavy, often made from wood, wicker and brass, and the most luxurious were named for royalty; Princess, Duchess or Windsor. By the late 19th century more lightweight strollers or ‘bassinets’ with the child facing outwards had been developed in the USA. Prams were large and heavy in the early part of the last century until in 1965 an aero engineer called Owen McLaren designed the lightweight buggy with an aluminium frame which carried his name. Traditional prams are still made in Britain, with Silver Cross being the bestknown name. This company continues to provide the Royal Family with their prams right up to the present day, with the Prince and Princess of Wales apparently choosing the ‘Balmoral’ model for their children.

Traditional prams are still made, Silver Cross being the best-known name. This company continues to provide the Royal Family with their prams.

THE PRAM

Actor, writer, producer and director Ricky Gervais is a man of many talents although even his most devoted fans acknowledge that his dark, edgy and often irreverent style of ‘humour’ is not to everyone’s taste. Born in Reading, he originally planned a career in pop music and released a couple of singles, which apparently sold respectably in the Philippines! He met his partner, the author Jane Fallon, at university and the couple live in North London. His comedy chat show was screened by the UK’s Channel Four in 2000 but it was his sitcom, The Office, which introduced the appalling – and now legendary – boss, David Brent. Other equally controversial TV shows followed, most of which were either loved or loathed by the public and dealt with themes like bereavement, which are not usually treated as subjects for comedy. He is now almost as well-known in the USA after hosting the Golden Globe Awards and emphatically not treating either Hollywood stars or show business with the respect normally paid to them. “Insensitive and outrageous” were just two of the reactions to his comments. However, there is another side to Ricky Gervais... He is a committed campaigner for animal rights and frequently attends fund-raising events near his London home. His children’s book Flanimals came out in 2004 and the animal rights charity PETA announced that they had named a rescue cow after him! Most recently he announced that he has become the co-owner of an ecofriendly distillery.

ALGARVE P L U S

1800s

RICKY GERVAIS

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How is your portfolio? W I T H T H E S TA R T O F A N E W Y E A R , N O W I S T H E T I M E T O E X A M I N E – C A R E F U L LY – H O W Y O U R I N V E S T M E N T P O R T F O L I O L O O K S A N D I S P E R F O R M I N G . I T I S A L L TO O E A S Y TO B E T E M P T E D BY T H E ‘ V E N T U R E ’ O F T H E M O M E N T O N LY T O F I N D T H AT ‘ O F T H E M O M E N T ’ I S T H E O P E R AT I V E D E S C R I P T I O N . M A R K Q U I N N A N D D E B R A H B R O A D F I E L D O F T H E S P E C T R U M I FA W I L L S E T Y O U R I G H T

MORE PITFALLS As humans, we are also prone to biases. The most common ones encountered when investing are: – Home bias: this is where we focus on investing within our home markets. Many UK advisers are guilty of this, with a weighting towards the UK market rather than a global approach. – Recency bias: this is the tendency to react and dwell on recent events and forget the long-term patterns and trends. – Confirmation bias: we often search for evidence that supports our views and see less value in opposing data. A lack of impartiality is likely to have a negative impact. – Confidence bias: We are inclined to overestimate our skills as investors. Even with all the money, backing and decades of research at their fingertips, professional fund managers often make mistakes. Can we really perform any better with consistency? Lastly, tax efficiency is often overlooked and can have a huge impact on returns when you consider the benefits of compounding over the years. It might cost you capital

How many holdings you should have will depend on your preference for stocks versus funds, investment style and the time you have to dedicate to research and monitoring. As a rule of thumb for non-professionals, a portfolio of stocks should sit at around 20 to 25 holdings, above this you are verging into professional manager territory and may not have the resources or time to back it up. For funds, diversification can be built in and so it is possible to hold just one tracker fund, or a small number of multiassets funds (spreading investment manager risk).

NEW YEAR RESOLUTIONS If your portfolio is looking a bit haphazard, start as you mean to go on and regularly set time aside to do full reviews. It is much better to do this in one go, rather than bit-by-bit, as it will allow you to look at the portfolio as a whole and remain consistent. You will want to look at what you are holding. Are you guilty of ‘sunk cost fallacy’ and holding on to stagnant holdings or losses in the hope they will recover, meanwhile missing out on returns elsewhere? Or maybe you need to look at new investment opportunities, revisit costs versus performance, or rebalance. If you are craving simplicity, utilising passive funds that focus on large markets can offer a good low-cost option with returns that even active fund managers often find hard to beat.

ASK THE EXPERTS Debrah Broadfield and Mark Quinn are Chartered Financial Planners (level 6 CII) and Tax Advisers (UK ATT) with 20 years of combined experience advising expatriates in Portugal on cross-border financial and tax planning issues.

T H E S P E C T R U M I FA G R O U P R u a S a c a d u r a C a b r a l , Lo te 2 6 2 , Lo j a C , 8 1 3 5 - 1 4 4 A l m a n c i l T: 2 8 9 3 5 5 3 1 6 / E : i n f o @ s p e c t r u m - i f a . c o m / W : s p e c t r u m - i f a . c o m

Whilst diversification is key in any portfolio, too much diversification can also be a problem and often results in an incohesive portfolio without a clear investment strategy. It also requires a lot of effort, time and research, and can even lead to inefficiency and underperformance as you spread yourself too thinly. Being overweight in certain areas can create risk, and being underweight can be a drag on your portfolio as positions are too small to make a meaningful impact on returns. It is also easy to duplicate holdings or even end up with a similar allocation of holdings to that of a tracker fund, just at double or triple the cost.

WHAT IS THE MAGIC NUMBER?

DOWNSIDES

gains tax to restructure now, but it will save you from an even bigger tax bill in the future.

ALGARVE P L U S

ANY OF US are guilty of jumping on the bandwagon when it comes to investing. Maybe you are focused on artificial intelligence this year, or you were sucked into the crypto hype in 2021, and these trends may have left your portfolio looking like a bag of pick ‘n’ mix.

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YOUR money

I have been looking – casually at the moment – at a few neglected properties in the countryside where I live, that are in a bad state of repair – falling to pieces in fact – and I wondered if there are special grants available from the local Câmara (mine is Loulé) to purchase land and rebuild those small houses which are currently an eye sore. I would be interested in investing in the necessary work with a plan to sell the properties when refurbished, but would expect help with the costs. How do I set about this? There are few tax incentives available for property refurbishment and all of these are in the Urban Rehabilitation Areas, which are defined by each municipality. The Loulé Council has defined three areas of urban rehabilitation (ARU) where incentives for property rehabilitation are available. Two of these Urban Rehabilitation Areas are in the historic centre of Loulé and the other is in the historic centre of Quarteira. The incentives are related to tax benefits, which are decided by the government and by the exemption from municipal taxes related to rehabilitation work licenses. Please note that to benefit from some of the tax benefits,

it’s necessary that the local tax authorities are informed prior to the commencement of the works. If you are planning to make investments and refurbish several properties, it would make sense to set up a limited company for that purpose. Although there are costs associated with the management of a company, there are also costs that can be offset against the capital gains, that won’t be acceptable in an individual purchase; also, the corporate tax is fixed, contrary to the taxes on an individual basis which are progressive (the tax bracket is higher when the level of income increases).

If, in error, one does not pay a bill or settle a fine, issued by the Finances, can they access your bank account? How does this work? I have a post office box but post is often delivered to a local bar despite numerous requests, and I might not receive an invoice or notification for months. In fact, if taxes are not properly and timely settled, Finanças will notify you of the tax debt and this will lead to a tax enforcement process, through which the Tax Authority may seize the income of the taxpayer, including movable or immovable assets that are owned by the debtor. This obviously includes the bank account of the taxpayer. Please rest assured that before the coercive collection of debts, the Tax Authorities will have to notify the taxpayer of the debts and follow a chained sequence of acts and formalities aimed at making the seizure fully compliant. However, if you are not receiving the post, you may not be aware of the debt but this will not stop them from seizing the bank account. To avoid any tax debts, it is strongly advised that you have some of your taxes paid by direct debit, namely the taxes that are not posted to your address, such as car tax. It is also advisable that you have a fiscal representative or, in the case that you are resident and therefore not required to have a fiscal representative, to ask your accountant to receive the electronic notifications on your behalf, to ensure that no tax obligation is missed.

E m a i l yo u r f i n a n c e q u e s t i o n s to m a r t i n @ a l g a r ve p l u s m a g a z i n e . c o m f o r i n c l u s i o n i n t h e f i r s t av a i l a b l e i s s u e o f A l g a r ve P LU S . To c o n s u l t d i r e c t l y w i t h t h e e x p e r t s a t A F M , e m a i l h e l p d e s k @ a l l f i n a n c e m a t t e r s . p t

Is it allowable to have monies in a number of countries in savings accounts – surely some have better interest rates than others. How do I take advantage of the various possibilities? If you are a Portuguese tax resident, you will need to declare your foreign bank accounts and any income received from those saving accounts. Although there is no wealth tax, the interest will be taxed either at the progressive tax rates or at the flat rate of 28%. If you have the NHR status, under the Portuguese personal income tax code, interest (as well as foreignsource dividends, real estate income and capital gains from the alienation of real estate) are tax-exempt in Portugal if they may be taxed in the source country under a double taxation agreement or the OECD model tax convention.

ALGARVE P L U S

R I C A R D O C H AV E S I S H E R E T O H E L P P E O P L E U N D E R S TA N D A N D D E A L W I T H W H AT I S A L L O WA B L E – A N D N O T – W H E N I T C O M E S T O F I N A N C I A L M AT T E R S I N P O R T U G A L . T H I S M O N T H , Q U E S T I O N S C O V E R S AV I N G S A C C O U N T S I N OT H E R C O U N T R I E S , A N D T H E C O N S EQ U E N C E S O F N OT SETTLING FINES

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Q A

GOING LEGAL

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100 95 75

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A Yes, if the time demanded by law has elapsed. According to Portuguese law, under Usucapião, or Adverse Possession, anyone who has owned an asset either moveable or immovable (real estate), for a long period of time has the right to invoke adverse possession, becoming the owner in doing so. Through adverse possession, the ‘de facto relationship’ becomes a ‘legal relationship.’ The time required for adverse possession varies according to the type of asset – less in the case of movable things, more in the case of immovable property. The Civil Code determines that “the adverse possession of [movable] things not subject to registration occurs when possession, in good faith and based on just title, has lasted three years” (article 1299) and that “adverse possession [of real estate] can only take place after [...] 20 years, if it is in bad faith” (article 1296). Being in bad faith at the time of acquiring possession is knowing that the property belongs to another person or, due to negligence, not being aware of that. To be in good faith is to believe, with good reason,

that the property belongs to the possessor. It should be noted that Portuguese law allows Usucapião even for possessors in bad faith, although it requires a longer period of time for the effect to take place. In your case, since the time that your father passed, by law you are considered to be in possession of the land, regardless of taking physical possession of it (article 1255). If the time your father held the land complies with the required deadlines, you can obtain a title and register it in your name. To do so, you must do a Escritura de Justificação Notarial (Deed of Notarial Justification). For this, you must have three witnesses able to declare before a Notary that your father has been in possession of the land for the period stated.

I am in the midst of having a house built, which I am intending to use as a rental property in order to produce an income. The builders are now asking not only for more money as, they say, prices of raw materials have increased, but also for additional time because they have taken on more work. Where do I stand legally? We agreed a price for the whole job that is detailed in a letter of agreement, and also a timetable. I cannot afford to spend more, and do not see why I should have to. And a delay in completion means a delay in bringing in rental income. A The builders cannot extend the timetable because they took on more work. The increased cost of raw materials can only be

a valid argument for an increase in price if they were so exceptional that they posed a risk to the builder’s business (article 437 of Civil Code). If the raised price of raw materials cannot be accepted as a valid reason for an increase in the building costs, the owner is entitled to demand that the builders comply with the contract. If they fail to do so, they will need to meet all losses incurred due to the breach of contract – including rental income (if they were aware of the owner’s intention to rent the property out when completed) and moral damages relating to the stress and anxiety caused to the owner by the breach of contract (article 798). These rules are applicable if the letter of agreement signed by the builders and the owner is considered a valid building contract (contrato de empreitada) regardless of its title, fulfilling the requirements set in article 26 of Law 42/2015 of the 3rd of June. In this case, like many others, a foreigner who assumes that a document valid in his/her home country is valid in Portugal, may be putting themself at risk. It is worth mentioning that the average duration of a civil claim in Portuguese courts is around two and half years, so you should carefully assess whether it might be better to reach an agreement with the builders. You will need to ensure that whatever agreement is reached is drafted according to Portuguese law, so that in case of breach, the courts will deem it valid and enforceable in Portugal. Email questions for Ramos Associados to martin@algarveplusmagazine.com

R a m o s & A s s o c i a d o s S o c i e d a d e d e A d vo g a d o s S P R L Ave n i d a 5 d e O u t u b ro , 1 6 9 – 1 7 1 , 8 1 3 5 - 1 0 1 A l m a n c i l T: 2 8 9 41 3 0 6 3 / E : i n f o @ n r a m o s l a w ye r s . c o m / n r a m o s l a w ye r s . c o m

My late father bought land, which adjoined our property, from a Portuguese neighbour and expanded our garden. When I inherited the property, I learned that they had never signed the transfer. The neighbour died and I understand from others that his children are in France and no one has contact details. Can I register the property in my name as in UK, by adverse possession?

ALGARVE P L U S

L E G A L E X P E R T S N E L S O N R A M O S A N D R O B E R TA R A M O S , TO G E T H E R W I T H T H E I R S P E C I A L I S T T E A M AT R A M O S & ASSOCIADOS IN ALMANCIL, ANSWER QUESTIONS R A I S E D B Y R E A D E R S R E L AT I N G TO P R O P E R T Y A N D L A N D O W N E R S H I P, A N D A L S O W H E R E T H E R E S P O N S I B I L I T Y L I E S W H E N B U I L D I N G C O N T R AC T T E R M S A R E N OT M E T

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DATELINE PLUS

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

Olhão painters

TERRA & MAR In the Pink Gallery for Fine Photo Art Praça da República 69-75 Loulé in-the-pink.com Opens 26 January 2024



Pedro Guimarães KERSTIN WAGNER

Eden Pigments is the name of this very special exhibition. Dancing Dervish is 180x120cm.

Talking Eyes, acrylic on canvas. 130x130cm. A visit to this fine Loulé gallery is inspiring – every artist and artwork picked with knowledge, and passion.



Aderita Artistic Space 912 186 868 artisticspace.pt Until 15 January

ArtCatto 289 419 447 info@artcatto.com, artcatto.com

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ERNESTO MEIS Tavira d’Artes, Tavira, 962 012 111 taviradartes@gmail.com, taviradartes.com Atlantic, acrylic on canvas. 60x120cm. One of Meis’s vibrant paintings capturing the beautiful island of Culatra in East Algarve.

 IF YOU HAVE ANYTHING YOU WOULD LIKE TO SHARE EMAIL susi@rogol-goodkind.com

Tuesday to Friday, 11:00–19:00; Saturday, 10:00–14:00 Group exhibition featuring works by João Mariano, Maria Oliveira, Nuno Cera and Vasco Celio. Below: Untitled, by Vasco Celio, from the series PT2020.

ALGARVE P L U S

Twelve artists together in a single exhibition – Justine Albronda, Carola Colley, Meinke Flesseman, Paulo Gago, Fiona Gray, Edwin Hagendoorn, Rebecca Hutchinson, Sushma Legendre McIntosh, Tinneke Sorteboom, Jill Stott, Fabienne Vincent, Antonia Williams. Left: Reflections of Light – The Lighthouse, by Paulo Gago, oil on canvas, 60x60cm.

República 14, Olhão republica14.pt On until 28 January

República 14, Olhão

ALAALGARVE P L U S

republica14.pt, Reservas@republica14.pt Email for ticket prices, and to book. Concert times, 19:00 and 21:30

13 January Inma la Carbonera and Trio Flamenco/Jazz sing Flamenco and Jazz, with Chiqui Cienfuegos on the piano and Gal Maestro on double bass. A high-quality fusion project with three of the greatest musical personalities in Andalusia today.

on the Andalusian jazz scene, Javier Ortí and Nacho Megina, with Trevor Coleman, composer, pianist and trumpeter originally from New Zealand. The trio explores different sound textures in a flexible and experimental way, exploring rhythmic concepts with irregular measures. In this concert, the trio pays homage to Dave Brubeck’s famous quartet, with new works such as PolyBrubeck, PolyCOM and PolyMontuno.

20 January C.O.M. Trio Trio was the result of the meeting of two of the most active musicians

Diary dates Amigos do museu Museu do Traje, São Brás 966 329 073 admin@amigosdomuseu.com | amigosdomuseu.com ALGARVE PHOTOGRAPHERS GROUP New Exhibition: Black and White Opens 26 January, 20:00 on until 4 April Free entrance ART EXHIBITION NEW COLLECTIVE Opens 27 January, 17:00 on until 26 February Free entrance ARCHAEOLOGICAL TALK (in English) 9 January, 14:30 João Saldanha on The Rise of Monumentality in Eastern Amazonia and its link with the local Neolithization process. QUIZ – HELPING HANDS ALGARVE 9 January, 19:00 Tickets €3.50

A WORLD DIVIDED Bram Wanrooij History Talks (in English). Tickets €5 8 January, 17:30, The Cold War and the New World Order. 15 January, 17:30, Baby Boomers, Keynesianism and Welfare States . 22 January, 17:30 Decolonization and Independence. 29 January, 17:30 Neoliberalism, markets and states DOCUMENTARY CINEMA CLUB Tickets €4; €2 for members 6 January, 18:00, The Lady Bird Diaries by Dawn Porter 26 January, 18:00, Beyond Utopia, by Madeleine Gavin SECOND HAND BOOK SALE 25 January, 10:00–13:00 FADO 28 January, 21:00 Tickets €5

EXPERIEN CES

PET FESTIVAL FIL Parque das Nações, Lisbon petfestival.fil.pt 26–28 Jan 2024, Tickets €8

BELLA ACAPELLA chorus@bellaacapella.pt, bellaacapella.pt In 2023, the group of 11 nationalities and 32 members that make up the Bella Acapella Chorus, the only Barbershop chorus in Portugal, performed at Música nas Igrejas in Tavira, a concert with the Concordia choir from the US, a concert in Olhão, coachings here and in Spain with the Barbershop of Iberia Association. Preparations are underway now for the Barbershop chorus contest in April 2024 in Spain. To find out more, visit the website.

Enjoy an amazing show where you can find different activities and share experiences with your pets. You will be able to meet all types of animals, including different cat and dog breeds, talk to the experts and find out which pet is the right fit for you and your family. Check the website for times.

IF YOU HAVE ANYTHING YOU WOULD LIKE TO SHARE EMAIL susi@rogol-goodkind.com

DATELINE PLUS

Vale do Lobo valedolobo.com/en/events for locations

Loulé Criativo experiences loulecriativo@cm-loule.pt, loulecriato.pt January experiences are by appointment, so get in there fast! Walking Tour: Tuesdays 17:00–18:00 Social Running: Thursdays 17:00–18:00 Yoga: Fridays 11:15– 12:15; Sundays 09:00–10:00 Morning Yoga: 31 January, 10:00–11:00 Blue Monday Yoga: 15 January Social Padel Challenge (mixed doubles): Fridays 18:30–21:30 Cardio Tennis: Saturdays 10:00–12:00 Golf Amateur Week, 21–27 January

ALGARVE P L U S

Visit the website for locations and prices

OTTOLENGHIINSPIRED WORKSHOP Figs on the Funcho São Bartolemeu de Messines 912 595 539 cheryl@figsonthefuncho.com figsonthefuncho.com 20 January,10:45–14:00 Every participant in this adventurous cooking session not only learns the various techniques but savours and appreciates the rich tapestry of the Mediterranean diet inspired by Middle Eastern chefs such as Ottolenghi and Sami Tamimi. Whether you’re a culinary enthusiast or just looking to try something new, this workshop promises a blend of fun and flavour. Lunch with wine is included in the €45 fee.

MONTHLY CAR BOOT SALES Aljezur: 1st Sunday Algoz: 1st Saturday Almancil: 2nd, 3rd and 5th Sunday Barão de S. João: 4th Sunday Calicos: 2nd and 3rd Saturday Chinicato: 2nd Sunday Ferragudo: 2nd Sunday Fuzeta: 1st Sunday Lagoa: 4th Sunday Lagos: 1st Sunday Monte Gordo: 4th Saturday Olhos de Água: 1st Sunday Porches: 3rd Sunday Portimão: 1st Sunday Quelfes: 4th and 5th Sunday São Brás: 3rd Sunday São João: 4th Saturday Silves: 3rd Saturday Tavira: 1st and 5th Saturday Vila Nova de Cacela: 1st Saturday VRSA: 2nd Saturday visit myguidealgarve.com for locations and times

PAINTING TILES By appointment Palácio Gama Lobo Partner: Bernadette Martins To register: bernadetteceramics@gmail.com

INTRODUCTION TO THE TUFTING TECHNIQUE By appointment, Oficina dos Têxteis Partner: Sonmun To register: sonmunstudio@gmail.com

COOKING CATAPLANA WITH VITOR VELOSO By appointment, Loulé Partner: Aurora Restaurant by Vitor Veloso To register: aurora.restaurant.info@gmail.com

LAST WORD PLUS

AND finally NEW YEAR, NEW DREAMS, FRESH AMBITIONS AND SOME SERIOUS PROMISES. ANTHONY MARTIN HAS BEEN SEARCHING F O R A W O R D H E C A N C L A I M A S H I S O W N C H O I C E T H AT WILL DEFINE THE MONTHS AHEAD. HE HAS SEARCHED THE D I C T I O N A R I E S T O AV O I D A N Y T H I N G T R E N D Y

ALGARVE P L U S

O HERE we are again at the top of the

year when the world and his wife put their lives on hold, reflect on the past and make decisions for the future. Should they, during the past year, have invited the in-laws over more regularly? Should this be the year they try to beat the tax man and sign the house over to the kids, cash in part of their pension and travel the world? Should they give up alcohol or buy better wine? Should they this or should they that? For many people, for one reason or another, the first of January brings out both self-guilt and selfrecrimination and the pondering of whether this year will be different. But of course, it won’t be. It will be just as good, or bad, or indifferent, as the past year except for one thing... we will all be one year older and, hopefully having learnt from the previous year, a little wiser. However, for some august bodies, the turn of the year presents greater problems – a gut-wrenching, mind-bogglingly challenging answer to the question. What shall we have as our ‘Word of the Year?’ I have no idea why this is of such great importance that some of the best brains in the western world find it necessary to sit down and discuss the topic and detail their thoughts until they can reach a decision. The 2018 word of the year chosen by the Cambridge dictionary was the newly made-up word ‘nomophobia, this being short for ‘no mobile phobia’ – the fear of not having a working mobile phone. And in 2019, Merriam Webster, thought of as America’s favourite dictionary, picked the word ‘they, as in the non-binary ‘they’, and in 2022 ‘gaslighting’. Why do they do this? What do they/we gain? How will it improve our lives and, having chosen the word, what do we do with it and where do we go with it? And if these are the choices of academics, those

bods with serious letters after their names, it stands to reason that there must be some importance attached to the custom, and if so perhaps I should get on the band wagon and have my own word for the year 2024. But with 170,000 English words in common usage, it’s a big field to choose from. So where do I start? The 2023 word chosen by the Oxford Dictionary was ‘rizz’, defined as style, charm and attractiveness and the ability to attract a romantic or sexual partner. Rizz has been taken from the word charisma and, I’m led to believe, is in general usage by the Generation Z’ers (aged 11-26). But I, being somewhat older and belonging to what is known as the Silent Generation, know nothing of these labels. Nor do I want to. Somehow, we managed to get through life with the designations Babies, Kids, Teenagers and Adults and everyone knew what was meant. But returning to my problem, I do rather fancy having a word of my own to take with me into this coming year. It must be a positive word, a forward-looking word, a happy, optimistic word, to lift the spirits, straighten the shoulders and make me stride into the future with thoughts of positivity. There are some who would choose terms such as Winner or Champion or Victor, but these are Trumpian self-aggrandisement labels, ‘I am better than you’ tags, aggressive and challenging. They are not headings that allow you to get on with your peers and are certainly not words to make you happy or content. So, after much thought, what do I want to be in 2024? The answer, of course, is both healthy and happy, and one way to achieve this is to look around for life’s various idiosyncrasies – the situations that make you smile, the ones that tickle your fancy and up your mood. We all have it in us... it’s just a matter of allowing it to rise to the surface. It’s called humour, and that’s the word I’m taking into this New Year.

With the designations Babies, Kids, Teenagers and Adults, everyone knew what was meant.

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