AlgarvePLUS - July '24

Welcome

We’re often asked if producing a magazine is difficult, or hard work, or mentally and physically exhausting. And if coming up with creative ideas for contents is an overwhelming challenge, and frustrating. Well, let me tell you, the answer to all those questions is a very firm NO.

For starters, when you love what you do, and are confident you are doing it well, it is an absolute pleasure, so not like hard work at all, regardless of early starts and the occasional late night finishes. Frustrating perhaps, on occasion, when people you want to reach are not reachable, or you have a fixed idea for visuals but can’t immediately find the image you want. But think of the bliss when it all comes together and you can punch the air with sheer delight. Watching the new issue come off the printing presses remains one of the greatest experiences and to have that pleasure every single month... well what more could one ask for?

And then, when you get a real response from your audience – readers and advertisers – an email, a phone call, a post on social media saying “great stuff”, “loved it”, “thank you”, “best read around”, that confirms you’ve got it right, that your formula is delivering.

The growing number of people who want to be involved in the AlgarvePLUS story – top-notch writers, artists, photographers and business movers and shakers, add that top layer of wow factor –originality, inspiration, and a sense of dazzle. Roll on...

SUSI ROGOL-GOODKIND, EDITOR +351 965 581 831 | susi@rogol-goodkind.com

CONTACTS

MARTIN GOODKIND

Publisher +351 963 146 398 martin@algarveplusmagazine.com

KIM COLLEY

Art Director

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

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

algarveplusmagazine.com

ALGARVE

Acetate tortoiseshelleffect frames; lenses with 100% UV protection. €39.95, Zara

No ordinary dining chair, this is a true classic by Alain van Havre, hand-crafted from the finest solid woods – your choice of oak or teak – natural or dark brown.€695 (depending on the wood). Available to view at Oliveira Décor, Tavira. byoliveira.com

Unique handmade stoneware ceramic decorative pieces, designed and made by Frank Martin, reflect the beauty of the landscape. He also makes larger sculptures suitable for the garden, on commission. His work is available from his studio near Tavira, by appointment, and online. fmceramics.co.uk

POP ME UP!

Vista Alegre welcomes summer with the launch of a collection of three new glasses – Bubbles, Fresh and Lollipop –that combine different textures and art glass techniques and are the perfect recipients for creative cocktails, ice creams or even desserts. €100 each. vistaalegre.com

Giclée fine art prints, signed by the artist, Elizabeth Ockford. 66x76cm, limited edition of 75. Equilibrio Interiors, €850 each. equilibrio.interiors.com

Tea towels, with illustrations of the artist’s original acrylic ‘Marine Animals’ paintings, in 100% Oekko-Tex certified cotton, 50x70cm, exclusively from Martina, Rua 5 Outubro 68, Loule. €19.50 each. martina-loule.com

Essense of Portugal, lavender and thyme, soap €6.25; handcream €9.90; candle €22; diffuser €22 (refill also €22). Other fragrances include figs and redcurrant; coconut and vanilla; peach and passion fruit. All deliciously different. From Ange Boutik, São Brás. angeboutik.com

Jewellery designer Vera Manzoni is always playing and mixing materials. Her Candy Green earrings combine resin, turquoise, malaquite stone and stainless steel. €40. veramanzoni.com

The softest fabrics and minimalist detailing. Massimo Dutti does it so well.

LOOKING THE PART

Espace Cannelle of Estoril has opened a second branch, in the heart of the Cascais Marina Fashion Promenade. One of the best-known multi-brand ready-to-wear stores in the region, it offers a big selection of great labels including Etro, Alberta Ferretti, Leonard Paris, Diane von Furstenberg, Philosophy, Max Mara and Cecilia Prado.

HAVING FUN AND RAISING FUNDS

After four performances of Carolyn Kain’s Napoleon’s Algarve Nightmare, a comedy performed by the ‘random players’, more than €800 were raised in aid of the Algarve Network for Families in Need. The charity, which accepts financial help and items such as clothes, white goods, mattresses and furniture in good condition, was represented by Bernadette Abbott (front row wearing sunglasses) who is immensely grateful for the contribution. algarvefin.wixsite.com/ families-in-need

tavira - loulé - olhão - lagos

koziishop.com

In the nick of time

THE NAME FERRAGUDO RELATES TO THE IRON MACHINERY THAT HAULS FISHING BOATS OUT OF THE ARADE RIVER AND UP ONTO THE SAND TO SAFETY. NICK ROBINSON AND KAT, HIS COMPANION OF THE DAY, EXPLORED

MY WALKING buddy, Kat and I were back at it again and hiking from Ferragudo as far west as we could in one day. I was in good spirits as the Arade river emptied slowly out into the ocean behind us. It was velvety dark and smooth from a night of no wind.

As the sun rose, we were walking peacefully along a popular stretch of sand until we had to stop – a rocky cliff, complete with 14th century castle on its peak, had halted our stride. “No worries, let’s slip off our shoes and paddle around,” I suggested. Thankfully, it wasn’t too deep or too cold and we trudged on, silently gliding through the sleepy village of Ferragudo.

Portimão, Praia da Rocha, Alvor and Ferragudo all combine together into the largest urban population in the Algarve. It sounds massive but it’s not really, weighing in at 49,000 people (the second largest urban population in the Algarve is Faro at 46,000). Our river flowed past, swirling around the cruise ship docks as we plodded southwards, back towards the river mouth and the lively beach front.

Praia da Rocha ROCKS in summer. It’s lined with Miami-style apartment blocks, gloating over the hot sand. Volleyballers, surfers, sun bathers and tons of tourists mill around, waiting for the sun to sink and the lights to go on. Festivals, discos and casinos are all right here on the strip and it’s fun for those who enjoy it. We grabbed a coffee and pushed through into the calmer bays of Praia do Alemão. Honestly, when the prevailing wind is blowing from the north, it’s the most perfect beach in the entire Algarve. Shallow, calm and clear waters are well protected by the cliffs we looked up at. “Kat, we need to climb over these

All my buddies were busy as it was a work day, and the local boat tours people just weren’t prepared to understand our request

things”, I said. She smiled. It became a little tricky, so I wouldn’t recommend it for those of you who aren't nimble on their feet, but it was our most direct route over to Alvor, where lunch awaited.

Kat is an online mobility coach and is very into healthy food, so I let her take the lead and she ferreted out a fantastic little spot with the most delicious lunch. If you’re not aware, I have documented this whole walk in a YouTube playlist on my channel entitled Algarve Addicts – have a look over there for the details if you're interested.

Our biggest challenge of the day loomed up after lunch. We needed to cross a small but deep opening into the ocean. The Alvor river flows into a lagoon just west of the village where we had lunch, and I wanted to walk west and contract a boat to pick us up and drop us on the Lagos side of the beach.

However, no one was interested in helping us. All my buddies were understandably busy as it was a work day and the local boat tours people just weren’t prepared to even understand our request as it didn’t fit into their daily schedule of tours. After an hour, we gave up gracefully and hopped into an Uber and transited over to the other side of the lagoon.

We were dropped off in the luxurious golf resort of Palmares and tracked down to Meia Praia beach where we headed west with a freshening wind at our backs. Lagos was a welcome sight, and after we crossed the river (via a bridge) we wormed our way into the coolest rooftop bar I know – Hotel Lagos Avenida. It was gorgeous, and we sipped on a pair of non alcoholic drinks and recharged before diving into old town Lagos. Our day ended an hour or so later on Ponte Piedade, the picturesque peninsula that protects Lagos from Atlantic storms. It was a solid day and I'm looking forward to the next section!

SHORE

THING

THE ICONIC BLUE FLAG REPRESENTS ONE OF THE MOST PRESTIGIOUS AWARDS FOR BEACHES, MARINAS AND SUSTAINABLE TOURISM BOATS IN THE WORLD. PORTUGAL, RANKED SECOND WITH OVER 400 BLUE FLAG LOCATIONS, NOT ONLY HAS BEAUTIFUL COASTS, BUT ALSO A COMMITMENT TO EXCELLENCE

Words: KAYLA MEIRINHO

Discover the breathtaking beauty of Praia da Marinha in Caramujeira, near Lagoa, which is edged by orange limestone cliffs

IMAGINE WALKING along the shore of a gorgeous, clean beach, with golden sands, soft crashing waves, and a blue flag waving up above. These locations have been assessed individually in detail by the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE), resulting in them being acknowledged as Blue Flag beaches, marinas or boats.

What does it mean when a beach is adorned with the Blue Flag? It is like being given a gold seal of approval, one that showcases a beach’s dedication to maintaining high standards in environmental quality, safety and accessibility. To earn this status, a beach must excel in various areas:

High water quality: Ensuring that everyone can experience safe and clean water at all times.

Educational activities: Educating visitors on the local ecosystems, giving them a code of conduct to follow and directing them into educational programmes.

Waste management: Offering proper facilities for waste disposal and recycling.

Safety and services: Providing qualified lifesavers, sufficient first aid facilities and having emergency plans in place.

Accessibility: Ensuring the beach is accessible for people with disabilities.

The Blue Flag programme recognises more than 4,500 beaches, marinas and eco-

tourism boats spanning across 76 countries that are contributing towards a variety of sustainable development goals. And Portugal alone can claim some ten percent of those.

The best time to visit

When can you go? Well, that depends on your preferences. To those who want less heat and peace of mind away from the scorching sun, early morning or late afternoons will be much more ideal. These times also provide the best lighting conditions for taking photos because they offer a softer glow over the landscape.

While enjoying these beaches, remember that their pristine condition is the result of many people collaboratively striving to maintain high standards. All guests have an obligation to acknowledge and follow key principles:

Respect cleanliness: These beaches are awarded a blue flag for their cleanliness, so let’s keep them that way.

Follow local rules: Abide by local regulations and guidelines.

Mind your impact: Be aware of the environmental footprint of your actions.

Activity zones: Some beaches have areas that are set aside for activities like surfing or picnicking in order to ensure the safety and enjoyment of all beach goers.

Care for yourself and the beach

Remembering just a few things can ensure you have a great day out while contributing to the preservation of these spaces (and yourself!):

Keep hydrated: Drink enough water, especially when staying long under the sun. Apply sunscreen: Apply sunscreen on your skin regularly so as to protect it from harmful UV rays.

Observe safety flags: Always be aware of swimming conditions and follow the indication of flags.

Employ proper waste disposal: Place trash in bins. If you cannot find any, pack up and take your trash out with you.

Respect wildlife: Refrain from disturbing animals, picking plants, or taking shells home.

Join clean-up efforts: Participate in local beach clean-ups or just grab any rubbish you happen to find and dispose of it sensibly.

Exploring lesser-known blue flag beaches

To truly experience Portugal’s peaceful blue flag beaches, venture off the beaten track. Here are some lesser-known yet excellent choices which families and those with mobility concerns may prefer due to the existence of parking space, toilets, and food establishments among other facilities that ensure accessibility is possible.

Algarve Region

Praia do Amado (Carrapateira) This beach is a surfer’s paradise, renowned for its rugged coastline and impressive waves where golden sands meet dramatic cliffs. Be mindful of some uneven paths. After a day of surfing or sunbathing, visit the nearby village of Carrapateira for a delightful meal.

Praia da Mareta (Sagres) Overlooking the vast Atlantic, this beach offers a wide sandy stretch perfect for long, leisurely walks. Enjoy fresh seafood at one of the seaside restaurants and take a short trip to the Sagres Fortress for a touch of local history.

Praia da Ingrina (Vila do Bispo) A small, sheltered bay with calm, turquoise waters, this beach is a peaceful retreat. Spend the day lounging around or walk along coastal trails for a serene nature experience.

Praia do Vau (Portimão) Surrounded by scenic cliffs and calm waters, this beach is perfect for a relaxing day. Visit one of the beachside cafes for refreshments or explore the nearby rock formations and caves. The iodine-rich waters and clay cliffs are reputed to have therapeutic properties.

Praia do Vale de Centeanes (Carvoeiro) This cliff-backed beach with clear waters offers stunning views and nearby hiking trails and is suitable for those comfortable with some stairs. Enjoy a drink at the nearby beach bar, explore the scenic cliffside walks, and don’t miss the nearby Algar Seco rock formations.

Praia da Rocha Baixinha Nascente (Albufeira) A long stretch of sandy beach with crystal-clear waters, this one is very accessible. Spend all day swimming and sunbathing, and then wind up in a beachside restaurant or bar. For a bit of adventure, take a boat tour along the stunning Algarve coastline.

Praia dos Olhos de Água (Albufeira) A small cove with traditional fishing boats and

clear waters. After time on the beach, enjoy a taste of local cuisine – there’s a real choice of eateries. The charming fishing village atmosphere adds to the beach’s unique charm.

Praia da Fuseta (Olhão) This sandy beach with calm lagoon waters is ideal for a quiet day out. Spend the day swimming and discover the nearby Ria Formosa Natural Park, a birdwatcher’s paradise.

Praia do Barril (Tavira) A unique beach with an anchor cemetery and a long stretch of sand, this beach is accessible via a short train ride or a walk across a bridge. The historical anchor graveyard offers a glimpse into the area’s tuna fishing past.

Praia Verde (Castro Marim) An expansive sandy beach with a backdrop of green pine forests, it offers extremely easy access and flat terrain. After basking in the sun, dine at one of the nearby restaurants or cafés. Take a leisurely walk through the pine forests or visit the nearby Castro Marim Castle for a historical excursion that speaks volumes of the past.

Alentejo Region

Praia do Pego (Grândola) A long sandy beach with dunes and clear waters, it offers a peaceful escape. Spend the day chilling on this pristine beach, and then pop over to a beachside restaurant for a delicious meal or explore surrounding dunes and take in the natural scenery.

Praia de Melides (Grândola) This beach features a long sandy stretch with dunes and Melides Lagoon, a serene spot for

birdwatching and relaxation.

Praia do Porto Covo (Sines) A scenic small cove with rocky outcrops, this cute beach offers picturesque views and is suitable for those comfortable with some stairs. Explore the charming village of Porto Covo, known for its traditional whitewashed houses and narrow streets.

Praia da Franquia (Vila Nova de Milfontes) Where the river meets the sea, this beach offers serene waters and beautiful landscapes with cafés and restaurants nearby. Take a stroll along the riverbank and enjoy the scenic views of the surrounding area.

Lisbon Region

Praia da Cresmina (Cascais) Dunes and scenic coastal views create a stunning backdrop at this beach. Spend the day relaxing on the beach and enjoy a delicious meal. Explore the nearby Sintra-Cascais Natural Park, a beautiful area for hiking and nature walk enthusiasts.

Praia de Carcavelos (Carcavelos) This long sandy beach with great waves is perfect for beach activities. When the sun goes down, take a stroll on the pavement and soak in the lively atmosphere found in this lovedby-all party spot.

Praia do Creiro (Setúbal) A scenic beach with views of Arrábida Natural Park, this area is ideal for nature lovers. Simply laze around on its shores, eat well, and don’t miss a visit to the nearby Serra da Arrábida, a stunning mountain range covered with lush vegetation and panoramic views.

Opposite page: Praia do Vau in Portimão. This page, above: Praia dos Olhos de Água in Albufeira

Thinking of selling? How to achieve the best price

TMANY OF TODAY ’ S BUYERS ARE LOOKING FOR A READY-TO-MOVE-INTO HOME, FEELING THAT ONCE THERE AND SETTLED THEY CAN MAKE THEIR DECISIONS ABOUT CHANGES AND DESIGN DIRECTION. A PROPERTY THAT DELIVERS THAT OPTION WILL CERTAINLY SCORE POINTS IN TERMS OF ITS VALUE AND THE SPEED OF SALE, SAYS ROB DOES

HE SALE VALUE of a house is of course largely determined by its features, including its size and style, but the location, surroundings, views and accessibility also contribute. How can you as a seller increase the value of your home quickly? Consider these three useful strategies that you can use to quickly increase its appeal.

Make it turnkey

According to a recent study by real estate giant Engel & Völkers, four out of five houses in the Algarve are bought by non-Portuguese, and an increasing number of these foreign purchasers are under 55 years old, and have an active working life and young children. For these clients, it is becoming increasingly important to buy a turnkey house that they can live in immediately and without any problems.

Of course, there are always enthusiastic couples who want to renovate a house from scratch, just like in the real-life TV shows. But here in the Algarve, buyers mainly want a ready-to-occupy home without a lot of fuss. So make sure everything is painted properly, repair minor defects and cut back half the vegetation in the garden! Of course, no one is going to replace an old kitchen when they sell their house, but new handles, a smooth worktop and a new tap immediately give it a different look.

Optimise the floor plan

For many owners, a house is like a well-cut coat. It fits snugly, and they are used to the odd patches and maybe even the odd spots. But for a potential purchaser, the value of the house depends on how they envision living in it.

With this knowledge, you can optimise the use and routing of the various rooms and hallways. Make sure that the path from one room to another is clear. There should be no bottlenecks that cause people to bump into each other. Remove all access furniture and

Once you could sell a house with a garage that was not registered, a pool that on paper was a water basin, or an enclosed terrace that served as a bedroom.

cupboards. Realise that this is more than just staging. It’s about changing the use of different spaces.

Always create a dedicated dining area, even if you never use it yourself. Open up hallways that may have been used as storage rooms for years and create space for all the exits to the terraces.

Is there a bathroom next to your study? Perhaps you should convert the study into a bedroom and set up your workplace/snug elsewhere. A home with a good floor plan will help buyers envision how they would use the space and make it their own.

Interested in a better flow in your home? Check out Feng Shui, a Japanese technique that maximises energy flow and efficiency within a given space and on multiple levels.

Legalise!

A decade or two ago, it was not a problem, and even common, to sell a house with a garage that was not registered with the Câmara, a swimming pool that on paper was a water basin, or an enclosed terrace that served as a bedroom. But times they are a-changin’... and you must consider the needs and wants of today’s home buyers.

As mentioned earlier, purchasers do not want hassle and houses with unregistered rooms are less popular, fetching lower sale prices and often taking longer to sell. If you have the time, it is highly recommended that you legalise all spaces before putting your property on the market. In many cases this is not that difficult, but it can take time.

The first step is to appoint an architectural and civil engineering firm. Once all the drawings are ready, the local Câmara has to approve the project, which means you have to go there in person.

Normally this process takes about a month, but in some cases it can take longer.

In short, the sale value of your property depends to a large extent on variables over which you have no control, but you can increase the value of your home with some low-cost improvements.

Vicente Romero

11th July 2024

ArtCatto Gallery in Loulé

BOOKS CAN SERVE AS IDEAL COMPANIONS, OFFERING THEMSELVES AS PLAYGROUNDS FOR OUR IMAGINATION. THEY NOURISH OUR CREATIVITY, PROVIDE SOLACE, AND PRESENT A TREASURY OF DIVERSE THOUGHTS, CHARACTERS AND MAGICAL MOMENTS. AND LIKE THE BEST OF FRIENDSHIPS, WE CAN ALWAYS JUST PICK UP WHERE WE LEFT OFF

Words: CHRISTINA MORENO

ON THE SHELF

BOOKS CAN SERVE AS IDEAL COMPANIONS, OFFERING THEMSELVES AS PLAYGROUNDS FOR OUR IMAGINATION AS WELL AS SOURCES OF PROFOUND INSIGHTS. THEY NOURISH OUR CREATIVITY, PROVIDE SOLACE, AND PRESENT A TREASURY OF DIVERSE THOUGHTS, CHARACTERS AND MAGICAL MOMENTS. BOOKS ARE AVAILABLE ANYTIME AND LIKE THE BEST OF FRIENDSHIPS, WE CAN ALWAYS

PORTUGAL has given the world some of its greatest writers, such as Fernando Pessoa, Luís Vaz de Camões, and Nobel prize winner, José Saramago. There is abundant literary history here, and more than 40 houses and museums dedicated to Portuguese writers. In addition to that, you can find plenty of fairs, literary events, and libraries to go snoop around in. Then there is the glorious Lisbon Book Fair, which took place in Eduardo VII Park in June. It is considered one of the oldest cultural festivals and is a unique literary experience, featuring shows, concerts, book launches, and author meet-and-greets. Every year since the 1930s, it’s a place to acquire all kinds of literary treasures, including rare and vintage books, with discounts. While most books are in Portuguese, today there are many sections with English publications.

Great places

You have probably heard of Óbidos, the picturesque white town enclosed by a historic fortress wall originally built by the Moors and now known as a UNESCO Literary City. Thanks to a visionary entrepreneur named José Pinho who in 2013 set out to transform neglected spaces into bookstores, Óbidos became one of only 53 cities selected worldwide for this prestigious title. The initiative began with converting a church into a bookstore and expanded to include a green market, a winery, and in 2015, the world’s largest book hotel within a former convent from the 1800s. The village also launched the Folio International Literary Festival, attracting global writers and readers. Mark your calendars – the festival this year is set for 10-20 October.

BOOKing rooms

Feel like a fully immersive cultural-literary experience? Meet the architecturally gorgeous Lisboa Pessoa Hotel by the ‘Art and Soul Group’, inspired by the legendary Portuguese poet Fernando Pessoa. Each floor and the hotel’s 75 rooms pay homage to Pessoa and his renowned ‘heteronyms’: Alberto Caeiro, Ricardo Reis, and Álvaro de Campos.

The hotel invites guests to sip on some literary magic at their own pace or step into one of their wonderful literary tours.

Previous page, the

The hotel’s Fernando Pessoa Library has an extensive book collection for you to leisurely sift through. You won’t want to miss the Bernardo Soares Room, named after Pessoa’s semi-heteronym and the author of the acclaimed Book of Disquiet, where they host events, gatherings, book launches, and cultural lectures.

If Portugal’s literary city caught your attention, you might enjoy a stay at The Literary Man Óbidos, the world’s largest literary hotel and truly one-of-a-kind haven for lovers of the written word, situated within a charming 19th-century convent. You may want to reserve a longer stay even to just wander through their remarkable collection of nearly 100,000 books. We suspect that whether you are a seasoned book enthusiast or a voracious printed word explorer, The Literary Man Óbidos will leave you with lifetime memories gathered in their cosy reading nooks.

The charming literary town offers a variety of booklove experiences. To begin with, right outside the main entrance gates, you will find a book exchange run by The Silver Coast Volunteers, allowing visitors to donate, borrow, or take from an extensive collection of used paperbacks. Then, strolling down Rua Direita, the main commercial street, you will encounter a concentration of bookshops and book-themed stores. The Livraria do Mercado, a unique combination of fresh market and bookstore, houses a predominantly Portuguese secondhand collection with some foreign language titles.

Nearby, you will come across the atmospheric Artes & Letras, housed in a former winery, which specialises in rare and antique books in multiple languages, surrounded by artifacts, antiques, and quiet reading nooks. Then at the other end of Rua Direita you will find the Livraria Santiago, located in the former Igreja de Santiago. It is the largest bookstore in Óbidos and the only one focused on new books, with a generous selection in English alongside its Portuguese collection. This bookstore pays homage to the worship of knowledge by displaying a massive book on Leonardo Da Vinci’s Vitruvian Man on the former altar.

Useful Links: Portuguese Literary Tour Information: https://www. visitportugal.com/en/content/literary-tours

You have probably heard of Óbidos, the picturesque town enclosed by a historic fortress wall originally built by the Moors and now known as a UNESCO Literary City.

DID YOU KNOW...

Bibliosoph: One who is particularly knowledgeable about books

Bibliolater or Bibliophile: One who is mad about books

Bibliophage: A voracious reader, bookworm

Bibliopole: One who buys and sells books

Bibliomania: Madness for books

BiblioFact: Chained books, reminiscent of the Citadel Library from Game of Thrones, were a common sight in medieval libraries. Due to their high value, books were chained to shelves to prevent theft. Also, prior to the 1500s and the emergence of books with a spine, libraries consisted of scrolls on shelves.

BiblioFact: The most expensive book ever sold was the Codex Leicester, essentially Leonardo da Vinci’s science diary from 1510, purchased by Bill Gates in 1994 for US$30.8 million.

BiblioFact: That nostalgic scent of old books is a result of the chemical breakdown of compounds like lignin, releasing hints of vanilla, almond, and musky florals as books age. This unique aroma is a byproduct of the gradual deterioration of the glue, paper, and ink used in book production, giving each aged book its distinct olfactory charm. In other words, we love the smell of dying books. Try that thought on for a minute.

BiblioFact: By dedicating a modest 20 minutes to reading daily, you will end up reading around 12 books of 300 pages each in just one year. Reading a physical book before bed can have a profound impact on your sleep quality. Unlike e-books, print books have been shown to promote better sleep due to the tactile nature of turning physical pages. This may be because the physical act of turning pages provides your brain with more cues about what you’re doing, allowing it to process the activity more effectively.

famous Livraria Lello in Porto, which inspired JK Rowling. This page right: The Joanina Library in Coimbra University

Bookstores worth visiting

If you delight in the tactile experience of flipping through physical pages, we bring you good news. Portugal is home to a plethora of fascinating bookstores. While it’s difficult to narrow down the list, here are some of our top picks:

The Owl Story (Lagos)

If you find yourself in Lagos with a book-shaped hole in your heart, your inner bibliophile will thank you for making your way to this delightful literary oasis filled with English reading material.

The Algarve Book Cellar (Carvoeiro) This quaint second-hand bookshop has an impressive range of titles in English, Portuguese, German, French, Swedish and Dutch. In addition to an extensive collection of paperbacks, this beach side bookstore also boasts a selection of antique books that will delight collectors.

Biblioteca Joanina (Coimbra) Nestled within the historic University of Coimbra is a breathtaking Baroque library that has earned a reputation as one of the most beautiful in the world. Founded by King John V of Portugal in 1717, during the onset of the Age of Enlightenment, the library is home to over 70,000 volumes, including rare historical documents and first editions.

This treasure trunk of knowledge is registered as a National Monument and houses its volumes across three floors. The majority of the works date back to the 16th, 17th, and 18th centuries, and the collection includes significant works on medicine, geography, history, humanistic studies, science, civil and canon law, philosophy, and theology,

offering a glimpse into the intellectual and cultural landscape of Europe during this period. While the bibliographic collections can be consulted by request, with justification and motives for the need to consult, the rarity and age of the documents require careful handling and preservation.

Livraria Almedina (Coimbra) Located in the historic city of Coimbra, Livraria Almedina is a renowned bookstore that has been a staple in Portugal for generations. With multiple locations throughout the country, they are the go-to destination for academic and judicial books. The interior of the store is sleek and modern, with a predominantly black colour scheme and a nod to the medieval walls that inspired the brand’s unique identity. Despite their focus on academic materials, Livraria Almedina also offers a diverse selection of fiction and commercial books. Whether you’re a student, scholar, or simply a book lover, this store is a mustvisit destination in Coimbra.

Livraria Trindade –Alfarrabista (Lisbon): While Lisbon offers a range of contemporary bookstores, Livraria

Trindade – Alfarrabista is a great option for book lovers up for a journey through time. Founded in 1960, this remarkable establishment transports readers to a bygone era. Alongside its impressive book collection, this stylish shop showcases a captivating array of antique paintings, trinkets, and decorative pieces.

Menina e Moça (Lisbon)

This space of literature and libations is located on a so-called ‘night street.’ The founders envisioned a space where the rich literary heritage of Portugal and its gastronomic delights could converge. The result is this unique bar-bookstore that pays tribute to the works of Portuguese authors and also serves as a cultural hub, bringing together locals and internationals through a variety of reading and cultural events.

Livraria Lello (Porto) We’ve saved an absolute favourite for last. As one of the world’s premier book temples, it is a must-visit destination for lovers of the written word. This iconic bookstore has been hailed as one of the world’s most beautiful bookstores by publications such as The Guardian, Time, and Lonely Planet. Located in the heart

of Porto, Lello draws in visitors from around the globe. Built in 1906 in the stunning Art Nouveau style, its breathtaking staircases, ceilings, and façade have inspired some of Portugal’s most renowned writers, including Eça de Queirós, Camilo Castelo Branco, and Teóphilo Braga.

It has also become a pilgrimage site for Harry Potter fans worldwide. It’s easy to see why J.K. Rowling, who lived in Porto in the 1990s, found inspiration for her beloved wizard-world.

TIP: We highly recommend booking your visit in advance, as the lines can be quite long. But trust us, the wait is well worth it.

Mini library gems

With a primary goal to spread the love of reading, the mini libraries plan to offer a diverse selection to appeal to all ages and interests, with books in multiple languages. Everyone is invited to borrow books from the mini libraries without a set due date. You can also contribute books in exchange, helping to grow the collection and establish an informal book swap network.

These mini library gems in the Algarve are at:

Loulé: Avenida José da Costa Mealha (near the Cineteatro), and Largo de São Francisco

Ameixial: Rua do Ameixial

Tôr: Rua do Rossio

Benafim: Pátio da Dª Antónia

Quarteira: Rua Vasco da Gama

Almancil: Jardim das Comunidades

Boliqueime: Rua Dr. João Batista Ramos Faísca

Below: Livraria do Mercado bookstore in Óbidos

20 questions...

ARE

13 Tell us about the packaging. Where was it designed? Is it eco-friendly? Goconutty is a fresh young coconut wrapped in a recyclable food-safe PE foil shrink wrap. It is designed by our creative advertising agency, Bluemonque, from the Netherlands.

14 Does it need to be kept in the fridge? It is a fruit so you can keep it on your fruit bowl, where it will stay fresh for one week. Once opened, as mentioned, it can be stored in the fridge for 24 hours.

15 Calories – high or low? What does one Goconutty contain? There is a low calorie content with only 30 calories per coconut.

1 Who is behind the Goconutty brand? Husband and wife team, Rick and Helien Rebergen, from the Netherlands.

2 When did you arrive in Portugal? We settled here in 2022.

3 Where is home here on the Algarve? We live in the west, in Mexilhoeira Grande, which is bordered in the north by Monchique, by Portimão in the east, and by Alvor to the south.

4 We’ve been hearing a lot about Goconutty – let’s have some detail. It is 100% natural and raw coconut water, free of any shelf life additives, wrapped at the farm in a cheerful and modern jacket.

5 Where do the coconuts come from? We import them from Thailand.

6 Are there any restrictions placed on its production? No, the complete process from growing the coconut until it reaches the end consumer in Portugal is food safe.

7 What are the key health benefits of coconut water? It is packed with important nutrients; it is a natural source of electrolytes; it contains a lot of potassium; it is low in calories; it is a powerful antioxidant. And it is tremendously hydrating, even more so than water.

8 Is there a limit to how much one can drink in a day? Unless you have certain specific health problems, there is no real limit. One Goconutty per day keeps the doctor away, is our advice.

9 How long does the drink stay fresh once it is opened? Store your Goconutty in the fridge and it will be fine there for 24 hours after opening.

10 Can you mix it with other drinks, and which are the best/most flavoursome? That is possible, after you opened the nut with a sharp knife. You have to take some water out, of course, to be able to put something in. You can mix it with any drink you want. The best-known mix is probably the one with rum, to make a Pina Colada. We like to promote that the Goconutty is basically a mocktail.

11 Any health negatives one should be aware of? You only should be aware of the sugar, fat and carbohydrates in coconut water. In general, too much of something is never good.

12 Is it sold in single drink cartons, or by the litre, like milk? There is no carton! As I said, Goconutty is a fresh young coconut from Thailand and each contains between 250ml and 300ml of pure coconut water.

16 Does Goconutty contain sugar? It is a natural fruit – just like an orange is – not a composed drink that contains a mix of ingredients and additives. It is pure in every sense.

17 Where can we find it – which stores are carrying it? We are building our customer base not only in the Algarve, but also across the rest of Portugal. Let us know where you are based and we will share the information on points of sale closest to you.

18 How long have you been specialised in the exotic fruit sector? For more than 30 years now and we focus on the vegetable sector, too.

19 Will you be introducing other drinks? As successful and creative entrepreneurs we never sit still, because standing still means going backwards. We like to add value to the food sector and yes, there will be other concepts soon. Follow us on the social media channels and be the first to hear of new ventures.

20 What makes Goconutty different from other coconut waters that you can buy in the big supermarkets? Our product is a fresh peeled coco verde, and is in no way comparable to coconut water from a plastic bottle or cardboard packaging. In those products, substances are added to extend the shelf life or improve the taste and all health aspects have disappeared.

DAVID YARROW T THE WORLD OF

DAVID YARROW IS RECOGNISED BY MANY AS ONE OF THE WORLD ’ S GREATEST PHOTOGRAPHERS. A SPECIAL SELECTION OF HIS REMARKABLE AWARD-WINNING WORKS WILL GO ON SHOW AT AN EXCLUSIVE EXHIBITION AT IN THE PINK FINE PHOTO ART GALLERY IN LOUL É THAT OPENS ON 19 JULY AND WILL RUN THROUGHOUT THE SUMMER

Words: SUSI ROGOL-GOODKIND

HE EAGERLY-ANTICIPATED exhibition at

In The Pink will bring together some 30 iconic pieces from the hugely-respected Glasgowborn photographer, who first picked up a camera (a Nikon) at age 14, to capture his interest in sports. A darkroom at school, and another at home furthered his fascination as he learned what could be achieved with the right subject matter, and sufficient curiosity to delve into every opportunity and the options waiting to be discovered.

Influenced in those early days by the sports reportage photographers, such as the late Eamonn McCabe, Yarrow’s interest was initially centered on football, recording the reality of the game as a press photographer working for the Times, and the atmosphere created by the thousands of spectators who poured their passion into supporting their chosen team. That was at the World Cup Final in Mexico City. “It was inspirational,” he says. Portraiture of players, including tennis’s good boy/bad boy John McEnroe came next.

But wanting more in the way of concrete rewards for his work,

Opposite page top: Sex Panther, 2023; below: The man himself. This page top: The Village People, 2023; above: Catwalk, 2021

Yarrow put his photography on one side to take up a high-flying career in banking, launching a hedge fund, where the earning potential was far greater than in the world of sports journalism.

It was when the 2008 financial crisis hit, that Yarrow began doubting the future in banking and within five years his passion for the potential in photography re-emerged.

But there was no thought of reportage in his plan: he had a serious business model in mind which would generate real interest, and key to it all was working through respected galleries and exhibiting his ‘stories’ as an art form.

Yarrow’s decision proved to be one of the best he has ever made, supporting the move away from sports and concentrating on people, places, and wildlife, and a combination of all of those, juxtaposing elements to create surprise.

Showing today across the world in 50 specialist galleries, he names those in the USA, Switzerland, France, Germany and South Africa among his favourites. And now In The Pink in Loulé joins that select group. He has worked with famous names, from movie stars and models to politicians and presidents, in famous places and in the lesser-known to add intrigue to his work and raise questions.

Wildlife is key for Yarrow. As his website explains: “In 2014, I travelled to the deeply tribal South Sudan to photograph a Dinka cattle camp some 200 miles north of the capital of Juba. I was the first photographer to visit this 25,000-strong cattle camp, which was close to the heart of

This page top: The Home of Golf, 2022; above: South by Southwest I, 2020. Opposite page: Phil and Anja Burks of In The Pink Fine Art Gallery, Loulé

in the know

In the Pink is the realised vision of Phil and Anja Burks, extensive travellers and serious art collectors. Phil enjoyed a highly-successful career in commercial property and launched two companies to the IPO (International Property Office), one of which was the Big Yellow Group. Anja made Berlin her home some 25 years ago, having worked in banking and more recently with a Private Family Office where she set up the Museum Barberini in Potsdam, and looked after one of the largest private Impressionist Art Collections in the world.

Whilst travelling in Africa for three months in 2018/19, immersed in wildlife from Madagascar across to Namibia, the duo started to follow an artist on Instagram called David Yarrow. “We couldn’t believe his work and when we returned to the UK we wanted to know more about this amazing talent. We arranged a visit to his studio, and as fate would have it, he was there that day – normally he would be in a different country every week! We were mesmerised by his tales and stories – a narrative for each photograph would put you under a spell. We started collecting and adding his art to our already growing collection of photography housed in our home.

the recent civil war. I wanted the image to convey its raw enormity in a timeless and biblical setting. Many of the Dinka were fascinated by my skin and my hair but did not care about my cameras. Since cows are their passion, I brought A4 pictures of Highland Cows from Scotland and local cow medicine, which won them over.

“It was a challenging trip. My photograph gives a sense of place and an ethereal countenance – heavenly on one glance and hellish on the other.” Two days later the Telegraph dedicated a two-page spread to that image. A first.

In June 2021, David Yarrow became an ambassador for the African Community and Conservation Foundation whose mission it is to empower the communities living in the key African wilderness areas, contributing to a world in which people and wildlife live together, sustainably, forever. His association with ACCF has given him both pride and pleasure, as has the results of his fundraising activities for charities across the world where the focus is on health and in particular paediatric cancer care. Over the past five years, David Yarrow Photography has raised more than US$15m for causes across the world.

His byword today: “Photography is a focus word.” His camera of today? It’s a Nikon Z9. His advice today to youngsters looking for a career in photography: “Be your own biggest critic”.

David Yarrow’s limited-edition works are available through In the Pink, his sole representive in Portugal, together with a selection of his books, which may be signed in the gallery.

“The first piece we bought from David was Unusual Suspects – a collaboration between him and Cindy Crawford with a wolf staring at you standing on a bar full of locals in Montana. It is a masterpiece and raised a stunning US$1.5 million for Crawford’s Charity.

“In The Pink was established in June 2022 and we have brought many of the world’s best-known photographers to the Algarve. The response has been amazing from local and international collectors, buyers with second homes in the Algarve, interior designers, travellers and those who simply appreciate quality art.

“We have managed to secure some of David’s most iconic works including some last editions and artist proofs. Being one of the best-selling photographers in the world, his pricing depends on size and print ranges, from €25,000 to €80,000. At the big auction houses around the world he regularly sells for in excess of £100,000.

“Earlier this year we acquired a second space, this time in Quinta Shopping, where we will offer inspiration and a wide selection of works previously shown at the gallery in Loulé, the main stay of the business. We have exhibited a huge variety of works so far from major fashion photographers like Albert Watson and Bastiaan Woudt to the dreamy landscapes of Spanish couple Albbaran Cabrerra. This summer, as well as David Yarrow, we will introduce Christian Chaize to the Algarve for his renowned beach scenes.”

IN THE PINK GALLERY Fine Photo Art Gallery. Praça da Republica 69-75, Loulé / T: 289 462 320 / E: info@in-the-pink.com / W: in-the-pink.com

What a year what a change

REBECCA MOODY AND MICHAEL LEACH ARE DOING WHAT MANY PEOPLE DREAM ABOUT BUT NEVER REALISE. AN OLD SCHIST FARMHOUSE IN FIGUEIR Ó DOS VINHOS REACHED OUT TO THEM FOR LOVE, DEDICATION AND VISION AND IS SLOWLY BUT SURELY TAKING ON A NEW MANTLE

Words: REBECCA MOODY

When you talk about DIY, it is more than likely about a basic repair job. For Rebecca and Michael, it is about a complete rebuild and renovation, and carried out just by the two of them. For over a year now, they have been chiseling off plaster to return stone walls to their original state, exposing ceilings, replacing floors and windows. The old schist farmhouse with outbuildings in Figueiró dos Vinhos, near Tomar, that they fell for is emerging as a true beauty.

IT’S BEEN a year since we sold our beautifully finished, don’t-need-to-lift-a-finger stone home and moved into a ‘cabin’ the size of our old bedroom. A year since we had the luxuries of a flushing loo and an indoor sink. Do we sometimes wonder what we’ve done? Absolutely. Do we often feel as though we might be living in the cabin forever? Definitely. Do we regret taking this leap? Never.

Casa das Parreirinhas (House of the Vines – as she’s now been named) is slowly starting to come back to life. And uncovering the history, beauty and secrets (yes, she has a few!) of this place is an honour and a privilege.

But first things first…what is cabin life really like? Basic probably covers it well. Within its four small walls we’ve got a composting loo, shower cubicle, bed, fridge/freezer, sofa, chest of drawers, wardrobe and a log burner. Add two humans, two dogs and a cat and you start to get a pretty good idea of how snug (bijoux, if you’re being kind) this place is.

Thankfully, apart from the odd day when the rain seemed relentless and cabin fever definitely did set in, we’ve all mucked along well together. With Michael working over at the house and me working in the cabin, there’s even an element of “How was your day, dear?”, even though we’ve only been a few yards apart the entire time.

Chipping away

Michael often says he feels like he hasn’t done as much as he wanted to in the last year, or that everything takes so much longer than he thought. But when you take a step back, the house is almost unrecognisable compared to this time 12 months ago.

We love to reminisce about the hands that built this farm many years ago. And I’ll often think about the person who rendered all of the walls… sometimes joking that someone will come along in another 50 years and re-render them all again! So, I think it’s only fair that we include some kind of time capsule somewhere that details the number of painstaking hours Michael spent removing the render – maybe even throwing in his chisel for good measure!

Hidden secrets

Even though the house’s previous inhabitants haven’t left us a time capsule, that’s not to say they haven’t left a few things behind. As well as an inordinate amount of rat poison packaging (and the odd dead rat), we’ve found a number of ‘treasures’ that help tell the story of this house. From dozens of old terracotta pots that were used to collect resin from pine trees to the remnants of old tools, we’ve got a great stash of antiquities for our wall of curiosities.

A huge amount of time has been spent chipping render off the walls – inside and outside. This hasn’t just transformed the overall look of the house but you can almost hear the walls breathing a sigh of relief as you take them back to their original stone.

Over 14 tonnes of render and cement later (all removed with one chisel and a hammer by Michael’s fair hand, might I add) and the house has already started to enchant passersby. Several locals have pulled up to congratulate Michael on his hard work and our “casa bonita” – apart from the few days of the year when the wisteria was in full bloom, most probably passed by without a second glance before.

A part of history

Taking the house back to her bare bones and hearing from the locals is what this project is all about for us. It’s all part of the process. Michael often says we’re just custodians of this house for a short while and restoring her is us doing our bit to keep her going for another hundred or so years (hopefully!).

14 tonnes of render and cement later (removed with one chisel and a hammer) and the house has started to enchant passersby.

Some things we’ve left where we found them, however. As well as a few horseshoes that we discovered when removing the render from some of the outer terrace walls, we also stumbled across what many have since told us is a hag stone. A hag stone is a stone with a natural hole in it that’s placed in the house to ward off evil spirits. Call us superstitious but we’re not taking any chances there!

While we have managed to piece together many of our finds, some still have us scratching our heads. In the downstairs rooms, removing the render has revealed bricked-up doorways that seem to make little sense. One even leads to an area we can’t quite figure out the location of… but that’s a discovery for another day.

Rebuilding the past

As well as the render, Michael’s also removed all of the internal walls upstairs and ceilings and started replacing the first-floor joists. When the first new joist went in and the scaffolding went up, I exclaimed: “It feels like a proper building site now!” much to Michael’s bemusement! I wasn’t detracting anything from the work that’s gone into this project so far, but the process of building things back up feels like a massive step forward.

One of the biggest jobs ahead of us is replacing the roof. And with our steadfast determination to keep everything as original as possible, it’s probably going to prove quite the challenge.

So, time for the million-dollar question: “When will it be finished?” And time for our non-committal answer: “Two or three years?” And then there’s just the small matter of the outbuildings to tackle…

Ultimately, we have no timescales or deadlines for a reason – they add pressure. But ask me again next year after another winter in the cabin!

The cabin, teeny tiny but with all the basic necessities. The whole is about the same size as the couple’s previous bedroom

R I HTED E WAVES

IF YOU’RE LOOKING FOR A NEW CHALLENGE FOR 2024 AND WANT TO COMBINE GETTING FIT WITH A THRILLING PASTIME, THEN YOU ARE IN LUCK IN THE ALGARVE.

LEARN TO SURF AND ENJOY THE MULTITUDE OF HEALTH BENEFITS AS WELL AS THE FUN FACTOR

Words: LAURA SHEA

EVEN AT a very basic beginner’s level, surfing is a great workout whilst still being enjoyable and relatively safe. From start to finish a session can easily burn 500 calories per hour and you will leave the water experiencing a heady combo of being famished, exhilarated and exhausted.

Surfing is a great source of cardio exercise as well as building and toning muscles due to the paddling motion and core strength needed to stand up on the board and balance. It is a new sport that pretty much anyone can have a go at, and certainly offers more laughs than an afternoon in the gym.

After a few attempts to ride a wave you will feel the difference in your arms, legs and stomach, even if all you do is fall off your board. The energy needed to get beyond the waves is easily overlooked as you will be having so much fun, but you will feel it when you get on to dry land for sure.

Putting the overwhelming physical benefits aside, we also cannot ignore the fact that learning to surf is going to be great for our mental health for several reasons. Being outside in the fresh air and sun is obviously a mood booster, and the views of those golden sandy beaches and turquoise waters will make anyone smile and be thankful.

Vitamin D is crucial for bone health and being in the Algarve means we have it in abundance thanks to the sunshine, but don’t skip the sunscreen on any exposed areas! Factor in the feeling of accomplishment in tackling something new and possibly overcoming a fear, this sport will leave you bursting with pride, so don’t delay and grab a board.

Last but by no means least, surfing is also a hobby that you can do with family and friends, even if they just sit on the beach and support you. You will meet a new crowd of people when you take this up, and the community is hugely welcoming to newcomers.

After a long session in the waves, one tip is to make sure you hydrate properly before reaching for a celebratory beer or glass of wine! To really make it a health kick, grab a fresh fruit smoothie or a green juice afterwards to nourish your body!

How to learn

Surfing is by no means an easy hobby to dive right into (okay, couldn’t resist that one) and it will take some time to even grasp the very basics of standing up on a board. If the sight of huge cresting waves and rough breaking seems too much, then many people recommend paddle boarding first to get a hang of the basics. Requiring similar skills and movements, paddle boarding is a gentler version to get you used to the water and help build the crucial core strength that will aid you to ride some waves.

From entering the ocean with your board to swimming out past the crests to then standing up, paddle boarding can teach you the technique on a larger more stable surface. The only difference is riding the waves back in! Hire a paddle board from your tour provider or nearest shop (there’s no shortage along the beach roads – Quarteira and Portimão are just two) and get out into the sea. You will need good balance to be able to manoeuvre the board without falling off and once really confident you’ll be able to stand and steer. A great way to find your feet is to actually kneel and paddle and try doing some gentle yoga stretches to find your centre on a board. Paddle yoga has become increasingly popular with those who want to combine strengthening and the outdoors, and this will force you to find those core muscles hiding inside. Group lessons and guided tours in the Ria Formosa are available throughout the Algarve if you want to become a pro before attempting to surf.

Once you are feeling ready to jump on the surf board, find yourself a local surf school which specialises in smaller group lessons. Learning with others is often the best way to progress and

meet find like-minded people when starting a new hobby. You will also have several people looking out for you which can help to ease any fears.

These schools will start at the very beginning and tell you all about the safety aspects of being out in the open ocean as well as the etiquette when on the waves and how to be considerate to others. You will need to know about tides and currents and what kinds of waves to avoid before you enter the water. Another benefit to this way of learning is that you won’t need to fork out on all of the equipment to begin with as you can usually hire these from the school if they aren’t already included in the lesson package. Pack yourself a bag containing the essentials such as sunscreen, water, sunglasses, swim shoes and towels. And enjoy!

farosurfrentals.com/stand-up-paddleboard-faro/ formosamar.com/tour/rent-stand-up-paddle-boarding-infaro-algarve/

Where to go

You will be spoilt for choice on where to go for your lessons so do your research carefully and pick the right fit for what you want. Viator lays out several options to peruse for a range of prices and gives great comprehensive information on what is included.

You can head to Faro beach where there will be no more than eight in a group for your lesson, or opt for Lagos where the guide provides transport to and from the beach, making it a stress free excursion. You are also able to book one-on-one lessons on the website

if you feel that you need a more private approach. Alternatively, get in touch with the Albufeira Surf & SUP group to book in the whole family. This school offers small group or private learning, highly skilled instructors as well as the gear and insurance. Galé beach is known for its stunning beauty and gentle water, so for beginners this is an ideal location to gather the skills. You can book bulk lessons and children over the age of seven can learn here, too. If you are looking for a much more holistic experience, or maybe even just to get away for a few days but still be near home, then check out the Algarve Surf School.

One of the oldest surf schools in the area and located in Sagres, these guys host a surf camp week as well as offering accommodation at their hostel. Breakfast and lunch are provided and the house is a short walk from the town and its many bars and restaurants. If you are a solo traveller then this would be an ideal spot to make some new friends and memories to cherish whilst becoming a fantastic surfer.

Whichever way you choose to embark on your education, you will end up feeling healthier, happier, rejuvenated and probably a little bit sore! But that feeling you’ll get the first time you stand up and catch a wave is priceless.

viator.com/en-GB/Algarve-tours/Surfing-Lessons/d774g26051-c32014 albufeirasurfsup.com/surf/ algarvesurfschool.com/

Paddle boarding is a great way to meet new people, learn water skills and to build confidence before you hit the surf

SPARKLING GEM

AN ICONIC POST-MODERN HIDEAWAY ON THE BANKS OF THE OCEAN IN THE EAST ALGARVE IS THE NEWEST DISCOVERY FROM OUR INTREPID TEAM OF ADVENTURERS FROM DESIGN ESCAPES

Words: EMMA CAMPUS

WE’RE WINDING through a labyrinth of rugged farm roads, past quaint family holiday houses and venerable quintas set amidst sprawling orange groves, the heady scent of salt and citrus flows through our open car windows.

Gaps in the trees offer glimpses of the glistening Atlantic Ocean beyond our path, and a shimmering promise of the tranquility that awaits us at Casa da Ria, this month’s hidden gem, a private house for rent, nestled between the quiet fishing towns of Santa Luzia and Fuseta in the Eastern Algarve.

We arrive and the sliding gates of the house slowly glide aside, revealing a resplendent, panoramic vista of the Algarve’s UNESCO-protected Ria Formosa that opens wide before our eyes. Vast stretches and intricate islands of white sand, as if nature itself has opened its arms in welcome.

Indoors and outside, every feature of this treasure of a home speaks volumes of its architect, and also of the present owners’ passion for design perfection

Suitcases in hand, we descend with curiosity down a hidden concrete staircase at the end of a gravel path flanked by river cactus to the centre of the house into the warm embrace of our newly-found nest home for the next few nights.

Casa da Ria stands as a testament to the vision of a Luso-Brazilian architect who designed it in the 1980s, showcasing a quintessential example of post-modern architecture in our region that seems straight out of a Palm Springs postcard.

Homes erected during this era in the Algarve represent a captivating chapter in the area’s diverse cultural heritage. However, with the shifting tides of design trends over time, many of these structures have been overlooked or razed to make room for more contemporary styles of construction.

The post-modern movement aimed at liberating itself from the strictures of modernism, embracing an eclectic and expressive design ethos, and these buildings were crafted to both contrast with and complement the breathtaking surroundings.

As almost a perfect example of this, walking through the front door of Casa da Ria, we are immediately struck by the sense of space and light from its expansive glass façades that frame nature’s panoramic vistas and the house’s geometric forms that play against the organic features of its unique environment. The recent renovation (adding amenities like air conditioning and heating) was completed in 2021 and has preserved the original charm of the space, embodying the sleek lines and minimalist elegance of mid-century architecture, while endowing it with modern comforts.

Owned by a Portuguese family currently residing across Portugal, London and Dubai, Casa da Ria is a private sanctuary infused with an artistic spirit inherited from their matriarch, an accomplished interior designer who has left her indelible mark on the house’s decor. Her two sons, Fred, also an interior designer based in Dubai, and Alex, a Londoner with a passion for antiques, have also poured their hearts into refurbishing this house. Their familial ties to the arts are evident in every corner, from the carefully selected pieces of furniture to the vibrant colour palette that echoes the natural beauty outside. Collectables from the family’s travels across the world add to the home’s eclectic charm, and each living space is meticulously decorated to reflect their love for art and culture.

We feel as though we have special tickets to their own private gallery. Exploring long corridors that lead to each of the four bedrooms, each with their own dramatic vistas out of floor to ceiling glass doors that open directly onto the garden, we unpack and freshen up from our private indoor-outdoor bathrooms, perfect for those who like to bathe alfresco.

Coffee in hand, we step out into the garden that protects the house from the elements. The Formosa’s labyrinth of canals, islands, and marshlands stretches out before us, a diverse tapestry of natural beauty that is a haven for birdlife and other wildlife. My mother-in-law recalls her memories of a previous, more far-flung

trip, reminded of a resemblance to the serene beauty she discovered on the banks of the Zambezi River, with its tranquil, flowing waters and rich biodiversity. Together, we tread along a pathway to the saltwater pool for a refreshing dip after our journey here, setting us up to sink into the serenity of our newly-found surroundings for the afternoon.

As golden hour arrives and the sun begins to set over the estuary, it casts a golden glow over the marshlands, inviting delightful sounds of bird life out into the cooler evening air.

We retreat to one of Casa da Ria’s little seating areas that are scattered along the water’s edge for a moment of quiet reflection, watching as small fishing boats drift by under the watchful wings of storks, seagulls, sparrows and starlings. The local fishermen continue their traditional activities on the land as the tide gives way, gathering shellfish and bivalves by hand to be taken home for supper. Meanwhile, we enjoy our own, under the stars as the night closes in, sheltered by the sound of silence. Morning comes and we gather in the modern kitchen to prepare breakfast before heading out to explore Santa Luzia, a seaside village famed for its maritime heritage and the cherished tradition of octopus fishing. Known as the “Capital of Octopus” in Portugal, it’s a place that boasts a centuries-old practice where local fishermen skillfully capture and tenderize their catch by hand.

With a table booked for lunch at Casa do Polvo, we tuck into their crispy and caramely polvo roasted with garlic and olive oil with succulent sweet potato. After lunch we mooch around the cobbled streets, drinking in scenes of floating washing lines and locals grilling more octopus outside humble whitewashed houses, families gathering for Sunday sessions – a culture deeply connected to the sea and its bounty.

Back at Casa da Ria, a siesta ensues and we gather later for the evening with a bottle of local wine kindly left for us by the family, looking out over the estuary once more with a profound sense of gratitude. This is a place that possesses the true meaning of the term hidden gem, a place to disconnect from the world and seek a reconnection with yourself and each other along with an innate appreciation for the intricate architectural history of the Algarve, and with nature.

CASA DA RIA Sitio do Arroio T: +44 7770 626159 / +971 55 622 19812 / E: resevations@casa-da-ria.com W: casa-da-ria.com

NEW great TASTES

PIZZA DOMINGO, São Luis

DAVID CAMPUS, CO-FOUNDER OF AUSTA IN ALMANCIL, VENTURED INTO THE ALENTEJO FOR A ONCE-A-WEEK LUNCHTIME TREAT THAT HE CAN ’ T PRAISE ENOUGH. IT ’ S THE HOTTEST OF HOT SPOTS IN THE TINIEST OF TOWNS, HE SAYS. GET THERE EARLY AND BEFORE THE WORD SPREADS

IN THE HEART of São Luís, a quaint village in the Alentejo, lies a delightful secret known to a select few – a pop-up wood fire pizza restaurant, Pizza Domingo, that has become the best-kept secret in the area. This charming destination spot, open for business only on – you guessed it – Sundays offers more than just a meal; it’s an experience that blends some of the best pizza in Portugal with a warm, communal atmosphere led by a couple who run a small farm nearby where they grow ingredients for their passion project.

As you wind down country roads to reach Pizza Domingo, the first thing you notice is a gathering of cars, vans and trucks, all pulled up for the festivities. A rustic setup reveals itself at the top of a hill, makeshift tables adorned with colourful tablecloths and strung with fairground lights to create a whimsical ambiance.

The place is filled with families from lunchtime to well beyond sunset, no matter the weather, and next door, a local tasca serves up the

drinks, while also bringing farmers and fishermen from the nearby Costa Vicentina to mingle with the foodies who’ve travelled for warm, hearty pizzas crafted by hand from naturally fermented dough.

Bringing life to the sourdough, at the centre of the tent, is the woodfired oven. A traditional cooking method that not only bakes the pizzas to perfection but also infuses them with a distinctive smoky flavour that is hard to replicate with other techniques.

The sight and smell of the oven, with its roaring fire, is an integral part of the experience at Pizza Domingo, drawing everyone in with its promise of delicious dishes.

We grab a table and settle to devour the menu, a testament to the chef’s dedication to rustic perfection which offers tantalising textures and a subtly tangy taste.

Much of the produce used for the toppings is grown on their own farm or procured from their local community, and this farm-to-table approach not only enhances the freshness of the ingredients but also

FOOD

Pizzas topped with farm-grown ingredients; locally cured meats and aged cheese

DECOR

Outdoors –temporary tables dressed with bright coloured cloths; fairground lights

We reckon you will come away with change from €20 €

PRICE

deepens the connection between us and the food we tuck into.

We start not with pizza but with several dishes inspired by the Levantine origins of the couple, a standout being pillowy pork dumplings and homemade labneh. Next, pizza, which boasts a high, airy edge that is crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, providing the perfect canvas for a variety of toppings.

We picked the farm-grown arugula, raw Alentejo ham and soft cheese pizza, which balanced fresh, peppery greens with the savoury richness of cured meat and the sharpness of aged cheese. A softer choice is dough topped with local goat’s cheese and wild mushrooms – earthy, creamy, and rich but effortless and delightful.

Top tip: Be sure to ask for the homemade spicy relish to dip your pizza crust in – it’s a game-changer!

Pizza Domingo is slowly becoming a must-visit destination for those in the know. Its blend of a charming atmosphere, expertly crafted pizzas, and intriguing dishes makes it a standout choice. We drove a bit over two hours just to indulge in the bliss of eating there. And whether you are a pizza aficionado or simply someone looking to enjoy a unique dining experience, this hidden gem is well worth seeking out. We’ll be back next Sunday, and the next, and the next!

T A NEW ONE — CLEOPATRA WAS

ALLEGEDLY A BIG FAN OF WHAT IS KNOWN TODAY AS VINOTHERAPY. A BATH IN RED WINE CAN CHANGE YOUR SKIN QUALITY AND IMPROVE YOUR ENERGY LEVELS; ARE WINE SPAS WORTH INVESTIGATING? ABSOLUTELY

Vinotherapy and its benefits

wrinkles by stimulating collagen production, reduce acne by clearing pores, add glow to the complexion like a natural blusher, and improve hair health.

But is rubbing the raw ingredients into your skin really the best way to get the health effects?

The professional route

Vinotherapy is a lavish spa treatment that utilises the powerful properties of grapes and wine. Scientific research has found that after spending at least 20-30 minutes in the red wine bath, the skin becomes more hydrated, smoother, velvety and elastic. With its regular use, the signs of ageing can be delayed.

and fewer wrinkles – in fact, it is thought that red wine grape seeds alone are more effective than Vitamin E in preventing wrinkles. In addition, the branches, vines and skins are rich in polyphenols. These compounds, when applied to your skin, give a youthful glow. One polyphenol is resveratrol, which has been proven to be highly effective when it comes to skincare. These by-products of wine provide antioxidants to fight illness, reduce

Luckily, we don’t have to travel far to enjoy a wine bath. Portugal’s geographical and climatic features are excellent for wine production, and the interest in vinotherapy treatments is huge here.

Thus, many domestic hotels also provide us with the opportunity to immerse ourselves up to our necks in the precious, healing juice. Now, let’s explore some Portuguese spa hotels, and the benefits of having the raw ingredients of wine, including whole grapes, kneaded gently into our skin.

But beware, it is forbidden to drink from the pool!

Monverde wine experience hotel

The Monverde initiative was born from the Quinta da Lixa’s grapes and vineyards in the Vinho Verde wine region. Their aim is for your stay at the hotel to be truly unforgettable.

Surrounded by a luxuriant landscape and vineyards, the Monverde is a place where your senses are stimulated and refined while delving into the world of enology. Their treatments combine the natural efficiency of the wine’s active ingredients with the dexterity and expertise of the hands of the Monverde Spa beauticians.

Vinotherapy treatments include massages, scrubs, body wraps in grape skin, and of course, barrel baths, which combine red vine leaves and water. Bathing with wine not only creates a sense of well-being, but these delicious, sweet fruits provide many remarkable skin benefits. monverde.pt/en/

Rejuvenating treatment at Herdade da Malhadinha Nova

Herdade da Malhadinha Nova is located in Albernoa, Beja, in the heart of the Baixo Alentejo region. Far away from everything, it provides privacy, harmony, and security. Here time seems to stand still.

The Malhadinha offers a rejuvenating vinotherapy treatment. This is a relaxing massage with energizing antioxidant ingredients that act upon free radicals, promoting tissue elasticity. It also contains exfoliation treatments with grape extracts that rejuvenate the skin and protect it from free radicals. malhadinhanova.pt/en/

Massage

with Madeira wine in the Vine hotel

The Vine Hotel in Madeira Island is the World’s Leading Design Hotel where you can enjoy luxury wine spa treatments at the hands of the best professionals. If you have a day in Funchal, the capital of Madeira, the Vine Hotel offers a Madeira wine massage in an elegant atmosphere that is very relaxing and experiences of one or two days, in which vinotherapy treatments such as Wine Bath, Wine Teaser, or Vinopure Detox deliver several hours of pure relaxation. hotelthevine.com/en/wellness.html

Wine Spa at Yeatman

The Yeatman Hotel is a haven for wine lovers. It is located on a hillside in Vila Nova de Gaia with a decanter-shaped pool and a spectacular view of Porto.

The Yeatmans own Taylor’s and other Port labels and were among the first English families to produce fortified Port wines. The wine resort also partners with the top wine producers of Portugal to hold special wine dinners in the hotel’s two Michelin-starred restaurants.

The owners dreamed of unique winerelated themes for each of the hotel rooms. One has a bed surrounded by a wine barrel. But the most decadent of them all is the Bacchus Suite (named after the Roman God of wine), with a copper jacuzzi in front of one of two fireplaces and a rotating bed.

Their Vinotherapy programme includes a Signature Massage or also a facial treatment at the Yeatman Wine Spa.

the-yeatman-hotel.com/en/

Wine spa at L’and Resort

The five-star Relais and Chateau resort L’and Vineyards is located in the heart of Alentejo, in Montemor-o-Novo, surrounded by vineyards, oak, and olive orchards, and offers one of the best luxury wine spas in Europe.

Its exclusive Vinotherapy Spa, operated by Vinoble Cosmetics, offers a unique experience of serenity and pleasure, with exclusive rituals and beauty treatments based on grapes and wine-related products. Treatments go from baths and wraps to massages and scrubs, taking advantage of all the benefits of the components of the grape, relaxing with grape cosmetics and sleeping under the stars.

l-and.com/

Left: Herdade da Malhadinha Nova in Albernoa; Above: Vine Hotel, Madeira; Below left; L’And resort in Montemor-o-Novo; Below right: Hotel Yeatman, Vila Nova de Gaia, Porto

Words: CAROLYN KAIN

WITH 300 days of sunshine per year and the benefit of Atlantic breezes, the Algarve is classed as Southern Europe’s climate gem. But in August, unless you’re enjoying airconditioned comfort, I expect you’re feeling hot. At this time of year temperatures in the mid-to-high 30ºC are common, occasionally topping 40ºC.

Now imagine India where this summer in New Delhi temperatures surged to 52.3ºC – that’s 126º Fahrenheit. Previously, a high of 51º was recorded in Rajasthan with hot winds blowing from the northwest throughout the day and night.

So why have a love affair with India, one of the hottest countries on Earth? What’s the attraction of Rajasthan, for instance? Ask artist Paul Wadsworth who describes it as a place of beautiful palaces, magnificent forts and picturesque lakes.

His home base in Cornwall holds none of the same attractions and this explains why he spends so much time travelling round India, staying there for months on end. Recording every place and experience he encounters, his paintings are filled with atmosphere, and invariably they are bathed in heat.

On earlier visits he mainly worked in large sketchbooks using them as a source of ideas and memories that he turned into paintings when he returned to his studio back home. More recently, he’s changed his travel habits, packing large quantities of paint and heavyweight paper to create his paintings directly on location. And his bags are so heavy that on one

about the artist

occasion the straps broke, but according to Paul the effort of coming fully equipped is worth it. This method, he says: “Guarantees the authenticity of the images”.

Coconut palms on the beach at Kerala surrounded by nature; birds, frogs and snakes; a spider that popped through the window of his shack at night, fishermen busy with their nets; all recorded at the time. His paintings read like an exotic travelogue:

A punt ride to a Hindu temple on the Golden Island.

A white knuckle taxi journey to the wall paintings at Bundi.

The sacred lake at Pushkar surrounded by its pink hills.

Lord Brahma’s only Indian temple.

The narrow winding streets in the blue city of Jodpur.

Crossing the Thar Desert to visit the hilltop citadel at Jaiselmere.

Numerous and colourful chaotic streets. Varanasi, Rishikesh, Haridwar, Cochin.

There are many new places for him still to explore and others to return to. Making a point of travelling between November and February when temperatures are less vicious, Paul explains: “India is the place where I can gather new ideas and stories, each area has its own diversities and character.

“On returning home with the paint now on the paper, every picture must be carefully packed. At my studio, I go through them all and decide what’s working and how next to proceed. Some may need attention and others not. Further images might come to mind like the temple steps I saw in Jodpur but hadn’t recorded at the time. It’s a painstaking process deciding when the collection is complete, how best to divide and display each painting and where.”

This is the first time they have come to Portugal where Galeria Côrte-Real in Paderne is Paul’s sole representative. Somehow or other they seem to fit perfectly with the Algarve’s summer heat.

Your favourite destination?

India has been my first choice for the past 12 years. It’s a place of so many contradictions – the sacred and profane, chaos and control, beauty and the grotesque.

Have you always worked while travelling?

I spent many years painting in the Middle East, mainly Oman and the Arab Emirates. Travelling around in a hired 4x4 with all my painting stuff in the boot

and venturing into deserts and beautiful wadis in this part of the world, and the stunning landscape and ocean of Oman, led to many hours painting on location.

Do you always record your journeys?

I sometimes travel with big sketch books of handmade indian paper bound in black leather made for me in Pushkar in Rajasthan. These can become a source of information when

I am back in my studio in Cornwall; they can be revealing of the actual travelling experience.

Was it instant love when you first visited India?

The feeling of colour surrounds you like the heat of the air and sea. The tropical garden landscape of Kerala brings much to my work. The deserts and architecture of Rajasthan bring magic and the power of narrative to the paintings.

HANDS ON

BORN FROM THE CREATIVE DRIVE OF TWO TALENTED GENTLEMEN, OFICINA MARQUES IS A MAGICAL PLACE WHERE BEAUTIFUL PIECES OF ART COME TO LIFE AND TRAVEL FROM LISBON TO THE WORLD

Words: SANDRA GATO

OOFICINA Marques is the shared project, the joint vision of Gezo Marques and José Aparício Gonçalves. Gezo is a Brazilian who, very early in life, realised that his mission on this planet was to “communicate with the world”. He arrived in Lisbon in 1997 and, after spending 20 years working in advertising, decided it was time for a change. José is a multi-faceted artist from Lisbon – where he was born – who navigates between painting, graphic design, photography and video. His two key passions are nature and the human presence on Earth.

In 2018 the twosome decided to create a new universe, a multi-disciplinar art and design studio – Oficina Marques – to develop stories and ideas with their own language.

With the motto Tusa de Viver (‘Excited with Life’ is a possible translation) they chose five themes that cross all the work they presently do: Sea, Bush, Body, Faith and Lisbon.

We talked to the duo to learn more about the way they work, their passions, and their plans moving forward. And importantly about the special commissions they take on, and the amazing finished products that can be discovered in their Lisbon showroom, a destination for collectors.

Gezo and José: Their imagination knows no bounds, their wish for perfection is a constant

AlgarvePlus: How can you define your art?

Oficina Marques: For us, to create is like breathing. It is a way to express our personal vision of the world we live in. Our work is based on plurality, we have a growing number of four-hand projects that reflect the balance between our two different but complementary universes and the strong points of each.

Initially, in 2018, we tended to pour everything out – it was a more visceral way of working. Then we matured as a duo and felt the need to focus our energies and to have a creative code that would enable us to have a specific approach when it comes to lines, colours, materials...

AP: What are your artistic references and where does your inspiration come from?

OM: The spark to tell stories comes in many ways, sometimes a briefing or a creative challenge. We are highly flammable, every little sparkle gets us on fire! We are not the kind of artists who choose a material or a method and that’s it. Of course there are certain materials we feel very

attached to, but we are extremely versatile, that is why it is so important to us to have codes, so people may know it’s us. Whatever the initial inspiration, it has to fit one of the five big themes we work on and, of course, our techniques, which are evolving all the time. There’s always a compromise and a dialogue between materials and stories that, after being matched with our themes and codes, materialise into pieces of art. One of the images we use often is the flaming heart because it symbolises our never-ending will to create and celebrate life.

AP: Can you please describe your work process? Which of you does what?

OM: The spark that is the very beginning of all our projects comes from the union of our personalities and experiences. We complement each other at every step of creation and production. We divide the work in a manner that explores our individual skills, but most pieces are done by us both. The creative process includes four moments: Spark, Ignition, Combustion, Light.

- Spark: Is when everything starts, what

moves us to create something new. It leads us to choose the techniques and materials that will give form to the narrative.

- Ignition: We feel the first flame and it allows us to initiate the experimentation and the development of the idea. We turn the concept into sketches and colour studies.

- Combustion: In this phase we are already creatively boiling. The idea gets shape and we start producing the piece. The materials gain life through our hands, and the story gets a body.

- Light: The light guides us after the initial flame. The piece of work is now ready to be presented. Finally, it can tell the story.

AP: Some of your work is made to order. How do you choose which commissions to accept? Or to refuse?

OM: The orders result from a symbolic dialogue between us and the client. We give form to their stories through our own eyes. It is a plural narrative, the clients ignite the spark and Oficina Marques provides the creative fire. There is a permanent dialogue between the two parties throughout the whole process. We start by presenting

sketches and moodboards, then we let creativity lead us to the final result. We have private clients, architects, interior designers... We receive a lot of requests but because we cannot possibly take them all on, we tend to accept the ones that represent the biggest conceptual challenge.

AP: How does it feel to go somewhere and recognise that your work impacts so many people?

OM: For us the will to create is visceral, like breathing. It is how we express our vision of the world. That is why our motto is Tusa de Viver – ‘Life is to be used’, and it is with great happiness that we feel that our work is, more and more, part of the world of so many people who share their lives with us, in a way.

AP: How often do you create new pieces (the ones one can buy at the atelier)?

OM: Ideally, we want to produce a new collection per year – sometimes two. The five themes we mentioned before are the

The beginning of all our projects comes from the union of our personalities and experiences.

Everywhere you look in the store (opposite page) and the working spaces there is a fusion of colour and form, in an explosion of cohesive creative thinking

base for our visual code while the different collections are our permanent way of interpreting them.

AP: Collaborations with other artists/ brands, how does that work?

OM: We like to partner with others because we believe that working together gives more strength and solidity to any project. When we decide to go ahead with a collaboration it is only with brands that share our values, that respect our creative process and that have an interesting approach to art and design.

AP: You work essentially for Portugal or also for other countries?

OM: Besides doing projects for private houses, we recently developed two panels – our favourite format – for Hotel Gyp Sea –St Barth, in the Caribbean Sea. In Portugal our work is present all over the country – in the Soul Garden restaurant inside Corinthia Hotel in Lisbon, Nem Carne Nem Peixe restaurant (Porto), in Quinta Nova Nossa Senhora do Carmo in the Douro region.

Many of the pieces from our atelier end up being taken to other countries.

AP: Can you pinpoint three pieces or projects that are especially dear to you?

OM: There are many pieces that are really special to us, especially the ones that represent technical advances. It truly is a difficult choice but we can name our biggest panel so far – eight metres long, for Eleven restaurant (Lisbon), our first ceramic collection and the ceramic panels we created in 2023.

AP: Where do you picture Oficina Marques in the future?

OM: We see the future as a multiplicity of materialisations. We want Oficina Marques to be seen as an art and design atelier that is recognised by its unique imagery, language and codes. We also want to embrace new ways of giving life to stories and ideas through new materials or techniques so we can be able to take our pieces and art to a growing number of people.

OFICINA MARQUES R. Luz Soriano 71, 1200-246 Lisboa T: 213 470 003 / W: oficinamarques.pt / E: geral@oficinamarques.pt

OPEN: Wednesday to Friday, 10h30-18h30; Saturday, from 13h00-19h30 Monday and Tuesday, open by appointment

FLORAL DESIGNER AUDE TOULY IS NO STRANGER TO FOLLOWING A NEW PATH. SUMMER 2024 SEES THE FORMER OS AGOSTOS INHOUSE FLORIST GO IT ALONE, WORKING WITH A FLOWER FARM IN S Ã O BR Á S, AND A DIARY PACKED WITH WEDDINGS

Words: SALLY DIXON

BLOOMING GORGEOUS

IF YOU’VE ever thought of jacking in your job and retraining in something more fulfilling, then Aude Touly is here to fuel that fire. If you’re already living in the Algarve, you might just have walked a similar new life path. Personally, I’m halfway there, having bought a derelict farmhouse outside São Brás, but that’s a story for another day. You’re probably familiar with the saying, ‘take the leap, and the net will appear’, backed up by stories of how pursuing your passion opens doors you never could have imagined. Aude’s journey into floristry was one such leap.

Originally from France, Aude studied journalism and cinema at university before landing a PR job in the IT industry for tech giants such as Microsoft, IBM, and Nokia in Paris. Eight years in, it dawned on her that her job felt a bit meaningless and empty, it no longer made sense to her. The idea of pursuing something more creative, connected to nature, felt much more appealing. She toyed with the idea of landscape gardening, but it still didn’t quite sit right. While pregnant with her first son, Aude decided to retrain as a florist, returning to school as a distance learner on a one-year floristry course. Online learning wasn’t a thing back in 2011 so Aude would get her oversized textbooks delivered regularly by post.

Internships in flower shops in Paris helped her pass her final exam with flying colours and a new career as a florist was born.

PHOTOGRAPHY: NEUZA SERMAINES

in Lagoa; she took a job working for her for a season and was introduced to the wedding world. “It was really amazing,” she recalls. “I was like ‘wow’, it was always my dream to be able to do that; to be with flowers all day long in an atelier creating and doing the set up for weddings.”

Aude had found her niche. In another fortuitous turn, that job led to meeting the owner of the stunning wedding venue, Os Agostos near Santa Bárbara de Nexe, where Aude was invited to be the in-house florist in 2017. Os Agostos would be her floristry home for the next seven years, playing a crucial role in many beautiful wedding ceremonies and events.

A new base

And now, after many wonderful years at Os Agostos, Aude is branching out with her very own atelier located within the sustainably cultivated flower farm Flores da Fé near São Brás (I’m taking notes for when I finally get my farmhouse done!) owned and run by a delightful couple from Dublin, Paul Connolly and Fidelma Meehan.

“I wanted the freedom to choose my projects and work with new venues and partners. Over the past few years, I received many proposals and projects but most of the time I couldn’t say yes due to my existing commitments. It felt like it was the right time to be independent.

Last month, Aude had a wedding where 90% of the flowers came from the farm. “That was really cool,” she says. “It was a big wedding, and it was nice to get most flowers locally. It’s not always possible, due to availability and quantity, but it’s great when it works out. I had a wedding recently that was full of white orchids and white

Current trends: One is English garden-style, full of colour; the other is all white, with a massive number of lush blooms.

Moving to Portugal

Having worked for three years in a Parisian flower shop, Aude and her family decided to move to Portugal in 2015. Her husband’s parents were born in Portugal, and as it was a place Aude and her family always loved visiting on holiday, they couldn’t resist the opportunity for a new life. She recalls: “I was excited about the move but thought I’d have to change my job again; I had no idea that the wedding industry is so important here in the Algarve.”

Handily, a flower shop near their new house in Loulé was looking for a florist (the net appeared). “I was quite lucky,” says Aude. “I started to work with them, but I found it very different to what I used to do in France. I was disappointed and didn’t like it. In France it is part of the culture to offer flowers for every occasion in life. Especially in Paris where you don’t have a lot of nature, people want to have flowers everywhere, in the house, in the office…! Here flowers do not have the same significance.”

After a few months the net appeared again when by chance Aude met an English florist who had an atelier

At Flores da Fé there are acres of growing space and a glorious array of different flowers, from bold and brights to wonderful all whites

PHOTOGRAPHY: ANDY MAC PHOTO

hydrangeas, and we don’t have these kinds of flowers at the farm, they come from Spain and Holland.”

Flower fans take note, if you’re looking for some blooms for your home, Flores da Fé is at the farmers’ market at Quinta Shopping in Quinta do Lago on the first Sunday of every month. And you can visit the farm at Fonte do Mouro every morning; it is open 07h00 to 13h00 daily – just enter by the green gates, pass the ruins and follow the pathway. At the end you will find beautiful flowers and nice people!

A crop of trends

The burning question of course is what are the top wedding flower trends this year? Aude says: “I’m seeing two trends, and they are the total opposite of each other. One is very English garden-style full of colours, from pastels to bright colours – yellow, orange, pink –featuring garden roses, dahlias, ranunculi, cosmos, and snapdragons. Really joyful and like a wild garden. The other is all white, full of big, lush blooms with a massive number of flowers!” Sounds heavenly.

I imagine working in the Algarve heat with delicate flowers is a stressful affair. “The heat is challenging in the summer months,” Aude admits, “cold room storage and speedy deliveries are key!”

As a one-woman band, set ups for weddings can often mean early starts. “Last weekend I woke up at 04h30 the day of the wedding and finished setting up at 19h00,” she says. “The next morning, I was up at 05h30 as the removal takes a long time, sometimes two days, the cleaning up is really a big part of the process.”

I’m keen to know what happens to the flowers after the weddings, and picture Aude’s home in the Serra mountains awash with a colourful haze of fragrant bouquets. The reality is somewhat different. As Aude puts it: “In French we have this saying, Les cordonniers sont les plus mal chaussés – the people who make the shoes are the ones who go barefoot!”

Friends get first dibs. “When the flowers are still in good condition, I call up some friends and ask if they want to come and take them. By the end of the season, they’re like: ‘No, it’s okay thank you’ – they’re all flowered out,” she laughs.

With a packed wedding season this year (one or two a week from April to October), Aude already has a lot of enquiries for 2025. First contact is usually one year prior to the event. The design phase typically starts the winter before, with inspiration coming from clients and other flower designers Aude admires.

Now she’s heading back to school. “It’s 13 years since I did my training and things have changed a lot,” she says. “At the end of the season, I’m going to a workshop in France with a very famous florist. I’m very excited because I really wanted to go back to learn again, to elevate my style and keep learning from the creations of others. I’m always looking to better my work and keep it fresh. Back to school I go!” Aude’s journey is a testament to the magic that happens when you follow your passion.

AUDE TOULY: IG: @flowersbyaude / E: floweraude@gmail.com

Seafood Rice

LUXURY RESORT VILA VITA PARC IN PORCHES BOASTS THE BEST OF EVERYTHING, AND SOME AMAZING RESTAURANTS MANNED BY AWARD-WINNING MASTERCHEFS. THE ADEGA RESTAURANT, IN THE PIAZETTA, OFFERS A GLORIOUS SELECTION OF DISHES INSPIRED BY TRADITIONAL PORTUGUESE GASTRONOMY, BUT INTERPRETED WITH A COOL CONTEMPORARY TWIST. THE SEAFOOD RICE IS A DELIGHT AND WE THANK VILA VITA PARC FOR SHARING ITS RECIPE WITH US

SERVES 2 PREPARATION AND COOKING 50 MINUTES

INGREDIENTS

 100g needle rice

 80g clams

 80g razor clams

 20g prawns, shelled, but keep the heads and shells for the stock

 1 lobster 450g

 100ml olive oil

 30g garlic, minced

 50g shallot, chopped

 50g coriander

 30g salt

 2g pepper

 100g carrot

 100g onion

 150g celery

 100ml white wine

 Splash of piri-piri, optional

METHOD

1 To prepare the seafood stock: Lightly toast the prawn shells and heads and the coriander stalks, coarsely chopped carrot, garlic, celery and onion. Add 400-500ml of water and simmer in a pan for 30 minutes.

5 Reduce the heat to low and add the rice. Stir well and season with salt and pepper.

6 Add sufficient seafood stock to cover the rice. Cover with a lid and cook for 12 minutes. Add the previously sautéed seafood and adjust the amount of stock if necessary, and cook for a further two or three minutes. If you fancy an extra flavour kick, add a little piri-piri.

7 Finish with chopped coriander and serve.

2 When the stock is done, strain it through a fine sieve and set aside.

3 In a large frying pan, add a generous amount of olive oil and sautée the seafood. Remove from the pan and set aside.

4 In the same pan add garlic and shallots. Let them brown slightly and add the white wine. Stir and cook for about a minute until the wine has evaporated. RECIPE of

At Vila Vita Parc’s Adega restaurant, traditional Portuguese guitarists and Fado singers add a special vibe to the authentic flavours of the unique cuisine that showcase the ingredients that make this country a culinary delight.

THE COSTUME MUSEUM IN S Ã O BR Á S IS PART OF A MOVEMENT OF SOCIAL MUSEUMS GROWING IN POPULARITY ACROSS EUROPE. YES, THERE ARE TRADITIONAL DISPLAYS THAT YOU WOULD EXPECT TO SEE, BUT IT IS ALSO A MEETING POINT, BRINGING ARTS AND PEOPLE TOGETHER

Words: STEFF TOFT

COSTUME MUSEUM: The very words conjure up images of theatre, film and flamboyance, but here in São Brás, at the Museu do Traje, it is more about a style typical of a particular country or historical period. It’s a vibrant and lively space, filled with stories and spectacle.

A must visit, without question.

As the name suggests, the collection and preservation of costumes form a major part of the work of the museum, with a combination of permanent and temporary displays open to the public. The most recent temporary exhibition was centred around the 50-year celebrations of the revolution of 1974, showcasing costumes, household items and art typical of the period. Given the size of the museum, it is impossible for them to display all the costumes at one time, and this temporary exhibition allows the museum to rotate and display more to the public.

“The style is basically European, copied from European fashions of the time,” explains Director Emanuel Sancho. “The idea is what the costume represents, and people liked to show them off. The choice of garment and accessories displayed your wealth with a Sunday stroll

providing the opportunity to reassert your position within the local community. What you wore mattered and was a symbol of status.”

A permanent exhibition is dedicated to costumes of the 1930s when the building fulfilled its role as a bank within the community. There are two things that strike you about them: the incredible quality of the gowns, and the exquisite level of detail. Each would have been made by hand, with every bead and sequin sewn on individually. The condition of the costumes themselves, given their age, is testament to the work carried out by the museum.

There is also an exhibition showcasing the years from 1900 to 1930, an important period for São Brás, when the cork industry was booming, and it was a time of wealth and prosperity within the area.

The building in which the museum is located is a symbol of that wealth. Built in 1882, it belonged to the family of Miguel Dias de Andrade, described as a man of humble origins, who capitalised on the immense wealth that came into São Brás from the cork industry. But sadly, over the decades, both the house and the cork industry entered into decline.

How, then, did a home that had deteriorated to such a point that it had been ear-marked for demolition become a museum dedicated to the history of costumes across the Algarve?

In 1986, Lucilia Dias Sancho, the granddaughter of the original owner, died

The Costume Museum is home not only to vast collections of historic apparel and accessories, but also to equipment and tools from past periods that were in use by the town workers and within the cork industry

and wanted her home to be used to serve the progress of the Algarve.

Separately from the house, the costume collection was in its infancy. “During the 1980s, one of the Catholic priests who came to São Brás was really interested in textiles and costumes. He initiated the concept of a local museum, not specifically a costume museum, but with a specialist focus on textiles and costumes,” Emanuel explained. “When the house was donated to the to the charity Santa Casa da Misericórdia in 1986, the decision was taken to use it as a permanent location for the museum.

“This has not been a quick process and the museum has undertaken slow and extensive restorations,” Emanuel continues. “In the 1990s, the municipality understood that we were serious about developing the museum and we started to attract money from the European government. Slowly, over the years, we have been able to restore the building and maintain the costumes.”

The most recent piece of restoration work is the decorative friezes in the room that operated as the bank manager’s office during the 1920s. Thought to have been painted by a local artist between 1922 and 1935, the paintings are currently being carefully restored to their original detail and richness, which, it is felt, will take a further two to three years to complete. It is known that the designs were painted by a local artist, but believed that they were copied from a European palace.

Part of the local picture

People across the Algarve have donated items of clothing that they found in their homes. Vânia Mendonça, Cultural Manager, says: “Remarkably, people are still finding historical pieces and donating them to the museum. The result is an extensive collection of costumes that is now one of the largest in Portugal.

of a piece of exquisitely embroidered but damaged fabric. A photograph of a local bride revealed that the piece of fabric the museum held was the train of a wedding dress. Both the train and the picture of the bride wearing it on her wedding day are on display.

But a costume is not just a dress or a jacket. Accessories are needed to complete the look, and again, vast numbers have been donated –hats, gloves, ties, and even a straw belt typical of the type worn by agricultural workers in the Algarve. Also, beauty items, including lipsticks, perfumes and even blushers have been donated to the museum. Together they help to present a picture of what life was like in São Brás in days gone by. And every piece is diligently researched and recorded, so when an exhibition is created it provides a true reflection of how that costume would have been worn.

Emanuel Sancho is determined that the museum isn’t simply a place where old things rest, but that life is ever-present, through the gardens, the galleries and the continuation of art and costume.

“It’s amazing that the costumes that have been in someone’s attic for many, many years have been discovered. Unfortunately, however, we never really get working costumes; people continue to use them and often families don’t think we would want them, whereas the elegant dresses of the upper classes would only have been worn a handful of times.”

Each donation undergoes rigid testing before being placed in a carefully controlled storage area, which is occasionally opened to the public. “It’s a long process,” explains Vania. “We have to check the condition of the item, check for infestations, prepare it and photograph it. The worst thing that could happen is for an infestation to enter the vast storage area, but once stored the costumes will remain undamaged into the future.”

Growing the story

Research is conducted using books in the museum’s extensive library, and also through photographs. Every Thursday, for 20 years now, people meet and bring along family photos showing the history of São Brás in terms of events, places, people and the all-important costumes. “The idea is that if hundreds of families do the same thing we have a history of the whole community,” says Vania.

“We like to mix modern details alongside antiques,” he explains, and evidence of this is provided by the presence of Palmas Douradas, the atelier of Maria João Gomes, who hand weaves Algarvian palm leaves using old traditional techniques, but fashioning them into contemporary designs. Maria’s studio and shop at the Museum are open to visitors and shoppers; her hats are instantly recognisable, worn and seen at prestigious events, such as the Ascot races.

So much happening

The Costume Museum is a living breathing place filled with vibrant life. Volunteers form the backbone of the museum from managing the reception, to organising photographs and maintaining the beautiful and extensive gardens, which have also undergone recent restoration.

Emanuel explains: “It’s not just a museum, it’s a community space and all spaces are multifunctional. An art gallery that doubles up as a yoga studio. An auditorium displaying the work of the photography club. A concert venue. A garden providing a quiet, reflective place to sit. And a space for open air jazz evenings or restorative tai chi classes. There are film shows, lectures, fairs and festivals, courses of every description, and permanent exhibitions of farming and agricultural equipment, and cork.

To date, 700 families have donated their photographs and personal letters. It was this process that enabled the museum to validate the history

The Costume Museum is constantly evolving, and besides maintaining its position as an authority on costumes in Portugal, it provides a cultural centre for São Brás, a reflection of all that the town is, has been and aspires to be.

DAVID YARROW

David Yarrow, “Don’t Worry Darling”, 2023

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MAGICAL DESTINATIONS

RECENT RESEARCH BY SLINGO INTO THE POPULARITY OF TRAVEL DESTINATIONS BASED ON GOOGLE SEARCHES, SOCIAL MEDIA POSTS AND TRIPADVISOR REVIEWS PUT SINTRA AT THE TOP OF THE FAIRYTALE LIST

words: JACK BROOKES

SINTRA, a picturesque town in the foothills of Portugal’s Sintra Mountains, is renowned for its stunning landscapes, grand palaces, historic castles and enchanting gardens. Known as a fairytale destination, its significance is enhanced by its UNESCO World Heritage status. The romantic architecture and lush scenery have made it a favourite among travellers and photographers, which has led to its status as the most Instagrammed magical destination, appearing in 2.5 million posts.

And no wonder. Sintra offers a myriad of other reasons that make it awe-inspiring. The town is home to the iconic Pena Palace, a vibrant mix of Gothic, Renaissance, and Moorish architectural styles, perched on a hilltop offering breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. Nearby, the mysterious Quinta da Regaleira entices visitors with its Gothic façade, intricate gardens, and the enigmatic Initiation Well, a subterranean tower that spirals deep into the earth, evoking a sense of mystery and adventure.

The town’s natural landscapes add to its allure. The Sintra-Cascais Natural Park, with its dense forests, dramatic cliffs, and scenic walking trails, provides a serene escape for nature lovers and hikers. The microclimate of the region, with misty

mornings and cool afternoons, enhances the mystical ambiance of the area, making every visit feel like a step into a dream world.

Sintra’s rich cultural heritage is evident in its well-preserved architecture and historical sites. The Moorish Castle, dating back to the 8th century, offers a glimpse into the area’s medieval past, with its rugged stone walls and panoramic views over the town. The Monserrate Palace, another architectural gem, showcases exotic influences and dazzling gardens filled with rare plant species from around the world.

The charm of the place is also reflected in its vibrant local culture. The town’s narrow cobblestone streets are lined with colourful houses, traditional shops, and charming cafes where visitors can sample local delicacies like travesseiros and queijadas; festivals and events, such as the annual Sintra Music Festival, introduce vibrant performances and cultural celebrations that highlight its artistic heritage.

Moreover, Sintra’s proximity to Lisbon makes it an accessible and popular day trip from the capital, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in its enchanting atmosphere. Whether exploring its historic sites, wandering through its verdant gardens, or soaking in the picturesque views, Sintra offers an unforgettable experience that truly feels like stepping into a fairytale. And it’s less than a three-hour drive from the Algarve!

Above: The Palace of Pena. Right, from the left: the underground well of Quinta da Regaleira; the Palace of Monserrate

Think f loriferous

PRACTISING THE WATER-WISE APPROACH BUT FANCY INTRODUCING SOME BRILLIANT FLORAL EXCITEMENT INTO YOUR OTHERWISE QUIET AND LEAFY GARDEN? CONSIDER FLORIFEROUS SHRUBS THAT HAVE PRETENSIONS TO BE TREES –ARMED WITH YOUR TRUSTY SECATEURS, ALL YOU WILL NEED TO DO IS TO CONTROL AND DIRECT THEIR ENTHUSIASM

Words: BURFORD HURRY

FIRST OFF, don’t dismiss oleanders (Nerium oleander). This native may be common, but they can make the most attractive flowering shrubs and trubs. There are some real beauties. I like the white oleander with just the faintest blush of pale pink. There are also ones with watercolour washes as well as an unusual pale yellow variety. Being yellow, she sometimes struggles with aphids, which will inhibit growth, but they won’t kill her. All oleanders are very powerful growers, so they need to be given direction. To train them as trubs allow one stem to shoot upwards and snip off the side shoots as they appear. There is an avenue with a parade of oleander trubs in dazzling colours on the pavement outside the Escola Secundária de Loulé. But honeyman Silva has a lovely unclipped hedge of them jostling with each other in May and June in different hot and blazing colours, which are set off by several, also glorious, ‘cool’ white bushes scattered in between. Orchid bushes (Bauhinias), too, are worth growing as shrubs or trubs. They are very versatile, seem to enjoy the Algarve, and they

make a lovely addition to any garden. The colour of their orchid-shaped flowers vary and the butterfly –sometimes called camel foot – shape of their leaves comes in different sizes, too. Some varieties of bauhinia grow into reasonably tall trees but whatever sizes seem to form a rounded shape. There is large purple flowering bauhinia trub above the Jolibela in Loulé. She comes with seeds, which could be a problem.

The Bauhinia X blakeana, aka the Hong Kong orchid tree, sets few or no seeds but grows much bigger so would be fine as a specimen tree rather than a trub. For the smaller garden the Natal bauhinia (Bauhinia natalensis) is ideal. Her white, lightly fragrant, delicate flowers cover the bush in May and can continue to make a show for longer. She grows neatly and fairly fast, and when trimmed is an excellent candidate for a shrubbery or even a thicket.

Introducing orange

Grevilleas from tough, dry Australia are another story. I first got to know them on the highveld of South Africa. The horizontal splashes of bright orange of silky oaks (Grevillea robusta) arrived with jacaranda blossom (Jacaranda mimosifolia) in early spring and together both trees made a dramatic and beautiful statement. The flowers have a sticky syrup and the birds love them – less so the cars that happened to park underneath them. The cars were also not too happy with the smaller branches of the trees as they were brittle and liable to snap off. The tops of the trees could also be untidy and scruffy. I have one here in front of the apartment block

Oleanders are powerful growers, so they need to be given direction. Snip off the side shoots as they appear.

opposite me and she has flowered well apart from her crown, but the gardeners of Santana da Serra in the lower Alentejo have successfully solved the problem by hard topping the trees – fortunately their branches grow strongly sideways, not up. But silky oaks are trees for the larger garden and not for a herbaceous border.

In the Algarve

Over the years, I have become really familiar and attracted to grevillea shrubs which do well in our gardens. They are strong little plants with unusual needle-like leaves and come in a range of lovely bright colours. One that looks good in a shrubbery is Grevillea Clear View David. He can grow quite tall, has fiery red flowers and is tolerant of frost and drought.

Another useful beauty is Grevillea johnsoni which has plumper, looser, more jewel like flowers. Her long needle-like leaves add to her attraction. Then there is Grevillea rosmarinifolia with her bushy evergreen rosemary-like leaves and whose graceful growth shows off her red flowers... these are just three in the large and growing range of grevilleas. Their growth may be unfamiliar but their flowers and their water-wise characteristics make them worth growing so keep an eye open for them in your local nursery.

Of course we are probably familiar with bottle brushes (Callistemon), also from Australia, which arrived in our gardens long before grevilleas. The most familiar ones are the weeping bottle brush trub, Callistemon viminalis, and the upright bottle brush Callistemon citrinus with their bright red flowers. There is also a lovely pink variety

Previous page: Oleander, Nerium oleander, big and beautiful trub. This page, above, top left clockwise: Callistemon viminaliss, red bottle brush in bloom; Dombeya wallichii, Pink Ball Flowers; Grevillea robusta, or Silky oak flowers; Grevillea juniperina Canberra Gem (also known as juniper-leaf grevillea) flowers

‘Hot Pink’ but she is a little more particular about soils, preferring rich and well-drained neutral to acid soils.

Callistemon pallidus, sometimes called the lemon bottle brush, grows in an upright way, has smaller white brushes and does extremely well in most soils. All bottle brushes should be pruned regularly when young to encourage a bushy habit. Most live for at least ten years, flower prolifically over a long period of time and tolerate both drought and neglect. That said, the cutting back of their long thin dry stalks of accumulating seed capsules will encourage them to flower.

And think about these

Other shrubs worth considering are the coral trees (Erythrinas). Even as a young gardener in South Africa I had become familiar with the Erythrina family as there are several varieties in South Africa where they are known as coral trees and when in flower made a glorious splash of colour in spring and early summer. However, the ones I am thinking of are grown as trubs. Jan, outside Moncarapacho, has the Cockspur coral tree (Erythrina crista-galli ) in her garden. A native of South America and the national tree of Argentina, it has large voluptuous, coral red flowers that hang in bunches from her branches, which themselves twist and turn in an unusual Japonesy way. Jan’s trub is large enough to cast shade and even put a bench under. Jan also has an Erythrina caffra, which is a large tree and therefore deserves a large garden.

Other erythrinas found growing in Algarve gardens are Erythrina lysistemon which in Lindsey’s garden has grown into a fairly large and lovely trub, and the dwarf coral trub (Erythrina humeana), which I grew from seed; it took a while to settle down but is starting to look more at home in my garden. This coral trub remains a dwarf so she is ideal for the smaller garden.

When driving along the A22 you will have noticed the aptly named bridal-veil broom (Aretama monosperma) with her slender stems and frothy drifts, plumes and cascades of white flowers on the banks of the motorway. She is a large much-branched flowering shrub, growing up to three metres tall and is another native of Portugal and the Mediterranean. As is the yellow broom (Retama sphaerocarpa), not to be confused with the often shorter and smaller Cytisus scoparius. Both Aretamas grow strongly in the Algarve’s often poor soil.

Looking for something a little different?

Why not consider the pink ball Dombeya wallichii. She is a rather large shrub who grows into a fairly rotund one. Having big green leaves you might think that she wouldn’t do too well here, but she does fairly well once she has settled in. As she tends to spread sideway she needs a lot of space. She is unusual in that her tight clusters of fragrant flowers hang downwards in large fist-sized, light pink balls. These flower heads will need to be cut off once dry if you want a neat appearance, otherwise this is a pretty low maintenance shrub.

Flowering shrubs or trubs like these will infuse parts of the garden with welcome colour in the hotter months so they are worth considering. Why not seriously think of introducing them into your dry herbaceous borders or use them to provide a backdrop to your salvias or succulents. And if you do decide to get them, remember to only plant them in October.

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Oldies but goodies

STUDIES CONSISTENTLY SHOW THAT GOOD FITNESS HABITS LEAD TO LONGER, MORE SATISFYING LIVES. WE’VE PUT TOGETHER A MINI GUIDE TO FUN, SAFE AND EFFECTIVE EXERCISE IDEAS FOR OLDER ADULTS THAT WILL LET YOU CASH IN ON THE ‘ HEALTH IS WEALTH ’ REGIME THAT THOSE IN THE KNOW ARE MAKING TOP PRIORITY

Words: SALLY DIXON

IF I ASKED a group of over 60s what the most important thing is for quality of life, what do you think the majority would say? In 2009 and 2019 studies, one of the top answers was health.

Staying active is the key to unlocking a vibrant and fulfilling life. Regular exercise not only boosts physical health but also enhances mental well-being. Even moderate physical activity (15 minutes a day or 90 minutes a week) has been shown to enhance longevity. Those who prioritise their health tend to experience fewer chronic diseases in their later years. What could be more life-enriching than being able to engage fully in your favourite activities, and enjoy time with your loved ones without the limitations imposed by poor physical condition? The Algarve is a haven of health and fitness offerings so pick your activity and get moving!

1 Doctor’s approval

Before you start any new exercise routine, you should consult with your healthcare provider, especially if you have any pre-existing health conditions.

2 Ease into it

Slow and steady wins the race. Begin with lowintensity exercises and gradually increase intensity as fitness improves.

3 Stay hydrated

Glorious Algarve weather means you should always stay hydrated but

especially when active; drink plenty of water before, during and after exercise.

4 Dress for success

Supportive footwear and comfortable clothing are essential to prevent injuries and ensure comfort. Don’t blame your attire for a rubbish workout!

5

Listen to your body

It’s crucial to stop exercising if you feel any pain, dizziness, or a shortness of breath. You must seek medical advice if necessary.

Exercise ideas for later life

CARDIOVASCULAR EXERCISES

Walking: A low-impact exercise that can be easily adjusted in intensity and duration. There are so many beautiful walks in the Algarve! Get out and explore your neighbourhood. If you’re looking for flat terrain and stunning natural surroundings, then head to the Ria Formosa.

Swimming: Provides a fullbody workout with minimal strain on the joints. Check out the article in our April issue on where to swim locally.

Cycling: Stationary bikes or outdoor cycling are excellent for cardiovascular health. If you’re heading outdoors, then the Ria Formosa has a lovely off-road path starting at Quinta do Lago. No bike? No problem. You can rent one from The Bike Shed at The Campus. thecampusqdl.com

Dancing: Join a dance class or groove to your favourite tunes in your kitchen. Dancing is a fun way to stay active and improve heart health. Algarve Tennis & Fitness Club, Almancil, have a line dance class on Wednesdays. algarvetennisandfitness.com

STRENGTH TRAINING

Bodyweight Exercises: Simple moves like squats, lunges, and push-ups can help build muscle strength.

Resistance Bands: Great for gentle strength training that can be used at home or when travelling.

Light Weights: Incorporate light dumbbells into your routine to help improve muscle tone and bone density.

Chair Exercises: Modified exercises that can be done while seated are perfect for those with limited mobility.

FLEXIBILITY AND BALANCE EXERCISES

Stretching: Regular stretching improves flexibility and reduces the risk of injury. Put it on your daily to-do list!

Algarve Tennis & Fitness Club in Almancil has a stretch class on their schedule daily, Monday to Friday. algarvetennisandfitness.com

Yoga: Enhances flexibility, balance, and mental clarity. Luz Aura Yoga & Wellness studio in Vilamoura has a gentle afternoon class for those looking for a more supportive yoga practice. luzaurayoga.com

Qi Gong: If you’ve been paying attention to previous issues, you’ll already know what this is! A gentle form of exercise that improves balance, flexibility, and mental focus.

Zen Algarve do regular classes in Portimão, Albufeira, and Quarteira. facebook.com/ zenalgarve.qigong/

Casa Vida in Betunes is running a four-week well-being journey in July, a course that incorporates yoga, qigong, meditation and yoga nidra. The 90-minute classes are on Fridays, at 09h30. moorwellbeing@gmail.com

Balance Exercises: Try standing on one foot, heel-totoe walking, and using balance boards to help prevent falls.

FULL BODY FITNESS

Pilates: As a qualified Pilates teacher I have first-hand experience of how great this form of exercise can be for all ages. It is highly adaptable, low impact, improves circulation, strength, posture, balance, mobility, to name a few benefits. Try Studio 51 Pilates,

Almancil, instagram.com/ studio51pilates; B.On Pilates, Faro, beonwellness.com

Gyrotonic® exercises: Another great all round exercise modality but particularly good for those living with disability, back injuries or recovering from injury. We’re lucky enough to have expert teacher Ayse Kahyaoglu on our doorstep in Boliqueime. aysekaraoglu.com

FUNCTIONAL FITNESS

Chair Stands: strengthen your legs by repeatedly sitting down and standing up from a chair.

Step-Ups: Stepping up onto a low platform or step improves balance and leg strength.

Toe and Heel Raises: boost lower leg strength and balance with simple raises. Use a wall for stability if needed.

Movement really is medicine. Whether it’s a brisk walk, a yoga class or dancing around your living room, make movement a part of your daily routine. You’ll feel better, live healthier, and have way more fun along the way.

References sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/ S0167494308001775?via%3Dihub pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21846575/ researchgate.net/publication/229327202_Does_Physical_Activity_Increase_Life_Expectancy_A_Review_of_ the_Literature#:~:text=Results%20of%2013%20studies%20describing,by%200.4%20to%206.9%20years aging-us.com/article/203051/text ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6407786/

Is there anything better than sitting outside on a beautiful summer evening, chatting with friends and family, eating good food and having a glass of wine?

Or, are you like me and don’t drink wine because it disturbs your sleep and gives you a headache? So water becomes the choice of drink which is good for your health but not exactly exciting throughout a long evening and if the content of a glass isn’t stimulating, the design should be.

My latest discovery is glassware from Syria. Glass blowing in

Damascus is a traditional skill passed down informally, by hands-on practices and instruction in workshops. In 2023 this practice made it to the list of UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage

The craftsmen use pieces of waste glass, which they melt in a brick oven and then mouth-blow into the desired shape. The result is a drinking glass which has no seam, in different shades of charismatic colours; white, blue, green and crimson and the outcome is slightly irregular due to the hand-made craftsmanship.

HOMES: Rua das Lojas, Rua 5 de Outubro nº 68 .

Fa SH iO n and accESSOR i ES: Rua José Fernandes Guerreiro, nº39

REMEXIDO: villainous or principled

THE DEBATE CONTINUES: SHOULD REMEXIDO HAVE BEEN CONDEMNED OR PARDONED? DURING THE 1830S HE WAS THE LEADER OF A GROUP OF COMMITTED POLITICAL AGITATORS BASED IN THE ALGARVE. HOLDING CONSERVATIVE OPINIONS, THEY BELIEVED THAT DOM MIGUEL I HAD AN ‘ABSOLUTE’ RIGHT TO RULE

DURING THE previous decade, José Joaquim de Sousa Reis, renamed Remexido, was well thought of in the Algarve village of São Bartolomeu de Messines. His wife was from an established local family and they lived a comfortable existence in a large two-storey house she had inherited. He was a civil servant committed to improving the lives of the people in his village and through his efforts an elementary school and community oven were built. His reputation was honourable, that is until Portugal’s impending Civil War became a topic of conversation. A public speaker with controversial views, he cited the fact that liberalism had no historic roots and that their king was appointed by God. Miguel, he stated, was the father of the country and had the ability to maintain stability and order.

Miguel and his brother Pedro held opposing views, dragging the country into a Civil War that lasted from 1832 to 1834. Bloody battles ensued with Remexido joining Miguel’s troops fighting for the principles of conservatism against Pedro’s liberal forces favouring the new Portuguese Constitution.

During this period, Miguel amassed 20,000 troops from all across the country, including the unwavering services of Remexido. Gaining a reputation for his commitment to the cause, he and his misdeeds were legendary. On one occasion, 74 local people in the liberal-supporting town of Albufeira were massacred, their bodies either burned or buried in the sand.

Saved by a cisterna

These events were recorded by Francisco Cabrita who hid in a cisterna and survived to tell the tale. Remexido played a part in the action but it is doubtful that he was responsible for the horrors that occurred.

It was 08h00 on 23 July 1833 when surveillance pickets posted on the castle’s battlements spotted Miguelite forces approaching from the north. A warning bell was rung, but the inexperienced defenders were no match for the armed intruders. Assaulting anyone in their way, street by street they pillaged the houses, set fire to buildings and in a show of victory erected the Miguelite flag.

were shot, others stoned or bludgeoned with rifle butts. Those who fled back to the castle were mercilessly bayoneted and blood that splattered the walls can be seen on the Municipal Standard to this day. The incident was typical of the atrocities that both sides inflicted on each other.

Miguel’s abdication

The following year, defeated in battle near Santarém and losing the support of his Spanish allies, Miguel signed an agreement of surrender and abdication at Evoramonte. In exile he traveled to Vienna, the home of the Austrian Prince Metternich who he so very much admired. Encouraging Miguel to renege on the document he’d signed, Metternich mocked the long-term effect of liberalism: “A people that can neither read nor write whose last word is the dagger – fine material for constitutional principles!”

Miguel, enthused by the Prince’s rhetoric, claimed his abdication was invalid, that he had only agreed to it when put under stress, and that his supporters in Portugal should fight on. A further four years of guerilla warfare ensued and in the Western Algarve and the Baixo Alentejo Remexido led the campaign.

Remexido was captured, taken prisoner, convicted by a Council of War and sentenced to death, the royal pardon he was granted ignored

Looking down from the castle walls at the havoc being caused, Albufeira’s Governor and town councilors made a decision to surrender. A priest carrying a white flag climbed down a ladder from the castle with a message explaining that those inside were willing to offer themselves as prisoners of war. By now Remexido had arrived and he accepted their submission making an agreement with them that the people of Albufeira would support Miguel. The tension between the two sides lessened and a day of relative calm prevailed.

It might have been maintained but a boat from Faro flying the Liberal Flag approached the shore. When the surviving townspeople rushed forward it was seen as a sign of betrayal. The ship was fired upon and immediately withdrew, leaving the people of Albufeira to cope without the aid of those on board.

According to Cabrita, chaos recommenced; some people

In most towns and cities, the population – relieved the war was over – willingly accepted the Liberal Constitution. It was only in rural areas that the conflict rumbled on. Remexido had no difficulty in recruiting men to join Miguel’s cause and they engaged in bloody skirmishes with soldiers sent from Lisbon to quell any conservative uprisings.

Hiding in the caves of the Serra do Caldeirão, Remexido proved impossible to find. He and his guerilla forces were supported by the peasants living in the tiny hamlets and individual homesteads around São Marcos de Serra. Even today these places seem remote and difficult to locate. Some of the simple houses from that time can still be seen. Built of stones, they have no windows and conical thatched roofs.

The peasants who inhabited them recalled everything Remexido had done to benefit his own community in the past and how the Liberal Army had tried to destroy his house. Their loyalty was strengthened when they heard that his wife was questioned under torture and the couple’s 14-year-old son had been killed. They were evermore determined to protect the whereabouts of Remexido, but the troop’s relentless search for him continued.

An ironic execution

Despite the efforts of the locals eventually Remexido was captured, taken prisoner, convicted by a Council of War and sentenced to death. The royal pardon he was granted by the then monarch Maria II was ignored. Under the new constitution she no longer had the absolute right to rule. Despite her intervention, Remexido, who had fought so hard on behalf of the monarch’s power, was executed by firing squad in the Trindade Field in Faro.

Meanwhile, the exiled King Miguel went on to marry a Bavarian princess, with whom he fathered seven children; he lived for a further 38 years.

LIGIA GLOVER REPÚBLICA DOS KAGADOS (COIMBRA)

RS: “I picked this image because it is unlike all the rest. I am attracted to the vibrant colours and the fact that there is something visually interesting everywhere in the photograph.”

Richard Sprengeler, who specialises in architectural photography, accepted the challenge of selecting five images from those submitted by members of the Algarve Photographers Group under the ‘Back Streets’ heading. Here are his top five choices...

KEVIN SAUNDERS

MULHER DE ESTREMOZ (ESTREMOZ)

RS: “I enjoy the vibrant colours of the mural on the right, offsetting what is almost a monochromatic image. A slightly longer focal length lens would keep the distance from getting too small.”

BACKSTREETS

EILEEN HENIGHEN

QUIET (OLH ÃO)

RS: “This is a good example of a near/far composition and it gives a feeling of great depth. Two things could help improve it: straighten the vertical on the right side and crop the right to the edge of the first full circle, so that the circle touches the edge of the frame. And crop or clone out the distracting black line on the very edge of the left side.”

BINA CLINE

FESTA DE SÃO JOÃO

(PONTE DE LIMA)

RS: “This has wonderful vibrant colours that jump out at the viewer. This is a good exception to getting the camera off centre. The people are perfect, especially the one on the right whose head is centered between the doorways. The focal length is also perfect – the distance doesn’t get too small.”

HEIDI BECK

LANTERNS AND LAUNDRY (PORTO)

RS: “Two things would help this photograph. Ten seconds later, the people on the steps would appear fully on the bottom. A little more space on the left would negate the negative edge tension created by the dark lines on the edge of the frame.”

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.

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.

information,

Monte da Palhagueira, Gorjôes, 8005-488

Santa Barbara de Nexe, Algarve www.retirementvillageportugal.co.uk

Jardins

Getting the signal

IN THE TEN COMMANDMENTS OF SMARTPHONES, THE FIRST IS: “THY SIGNAL SHALL BE STRONG WHERESOEVER THOU GOEST, EXCEPT IN THINE OWN HOME WHERE THOU SHALT HAVE ONE BAR AT THE MOST”. AND THE SECOND COMMANDMENT IS THIS: “THOU SHALT HAVE NO SIGNAL AT ALL IN THE REMOTE SPOT WHERE THY CAR HAST BROKEN DOWN.”

Words: CHRIS PARTRIDGE

1THE SITUATION with signals is true, both in the UK and the Algarve, sadly. But there are many things you can do to improve things, ranging from simply moving around to installing high tech signal boosters.

Here is a handy checklist of the things you can do to improve signal strength.

Check the phone’s settings

Smartphones often make assumptions about how they need to operate, sometimes to comply with regulations, sometimes to stop your battery draining too fast or to maximise your chances of connecting. The most common culprits are Airplane Mode and Mobile Data.

Airplane Mode switches off the cellular system and

usually WiFi and Bluetooth, as well, originally over fears they could interfere with a plane’s navigation systems, but nowadays it’s to protect mobile phone systems in the country you are flying over. It also tends to drain the battery very quickly because your phone does not know it is in the air and switches the power to maximum trying to pick up a signal.

Mobile Data switches off the data channel to protect your wallet – going over your allowance can be expensive. However, switching mobile data on can help establishing a signal.

A little-known trick is to turn Airplane Mode off and on again a few times. This forces the phone to search for the best possible signal and can make things better.

To switch modes on or off, swipe down from the top-right of the display on an iPhone, or swipe down from the top on an Android device. Then, make sure

that Airplane Mode is disabled, and Mobile Data is enabled.

If your phone is in a power-saving mode then you should disable this, too; occasionally, aggressive power-saving measures can impact your network performance.

It can also help to try switching between 4G and 5G networks, if you have a 5G phone. Sometimes, if one of the networks is congested you might have better luck on the other.

2

Try going up

Because the best signal strength needs a line-of-sight connection with the cell tower, the signal is generally better the higher you are. Try to get to an upper floor, or a hill if you’re outside. This may also take you out of the shadow of tall buildings.

3

Use Bluetooth headphones

If the best signal is found upstairs or next to a window, you can leave the phone there and use Bluetooth headphones so you can sit in your comfortable armchair or at your desk when you call.

4

Hold the phone right

Hold your phone upright and try to avoid blocking the antenna which is usually located in the upper half of the phone. Also use a case that doesn’t obstruct the antenna –cheap online products can be prone to this.

A little-known trick: turn Airplane Mode off and on a few times. This forces the phone to search for the best possible signal

5

Keep the software up to date

Software updates often include improvements to signal reception and connectivity.

6

Use Wi-Fi Calling

If your carrier supports it, enable Wi-Fi calling to make and receive calls over your Wi-Fi network and broadband connection instead of relying on a cellular signal. It is exactly the same as using the cellular network, with the same number and everything. The cost is also the same as if you were on cellular (after all, the network uses their system to connect the call). This can be very useful if you have reliable broadband but a horrible mobile signal.

7

Switch Carrier

Some carriers have better coverage in certain areas than others. Check the coverage maps of different carriers and consider switching if you can get better coverage in your location.

8

Install a Signal Booster

If you’ve tried all the above ploys without success, then you might want to try investing in a mobile signal booster, an outside antenna, wired to a booster/repeater and an antenna which rebroadcasts the signal inside the house.

Signal boosters tend to be expensive, so are aimed at businesses who want to boost coverage of a commercial site such as an office block or a warehouse, but there are consumer-grade products available. Not cheap, but a signal booster might be just what you need to get connected with an app. The first step is to check if your service provider sells a signal booster. If they do, you can be assured it will work with the frequencies that your network uses (they can vary).

If your network does not sell a signal booster at a reasonable price (they tend to assume their customers are all bloated capitalists), take a look at independent suppliers. They will need to know what frequencies your network uses in your area: the providers’ coverage maps will have this information. This is particularly important if you want to connect to the local 5G network.

Online suppliers such as mysignalboosters.com/pt or myamplifiers.com/en-pt-meo-signal-boosters sell a wide range of signal boosters in Portugal, tailored to the Portuguese market. Prices range from about €300 to €800. Plus installation, of course, although it is not difficult to do it yourself.

MONICA LEWINSKY

Monica Lewinsky is currently working as a TV producer and actress. She is also an activist campaigning against cyber-bullying – based on her own experience when, as a young intern working in the White House in the mid 1990s she had a two-year affair with her boss, who just happened to be US President Bill Clinton. The scandal broke when she admitted the relationship to a co-worker, who tape-recorded their telephone conversations and passed the information on to a lawyer who was investigating the President’s business dealings. Clinton was acquitted by the US Senate in 1999, but by then, Monica’s name and salacious details of their encounters were known across the world. Aware that she was going to have to live with this for the rest of her life, she tried to stay out of the limelight for ten years.

She then studied for a master’s degree at the London School of Economics where she said that her fellow students always treated her with respect.

Returning to her native California, she worked in show business, appearing on TV, writing for Vanity Fair magazine and forming her own production company in 2021. Most recently, she was signed by fashion house Reformation to lead their campaign encouraging women to use their vote.

When asked if she had ever considered changing her name to avoid being associated with a sex scandal, she snapped back: “Nobody ever asked him if he should consider changing his name, did they?”

Where are they now?

THOSE WHO MADE A NAME FOR THEMSELVES EARLY ON – ESPECIALLY IN THE MUSIC INDUSTRY – WENT ON TO ATTRACT AN EVER-GROWING AUDIENCE. OTHERS, WHO HIT THE HEADLINES BECAUSE OF A CERTAIN RELATIONSHIP, HAVE BEEN IN AND OUT OF THE SPOTLIGHT

Words: JILL ECKERSLEY

EMINEM

“I grew up on hip-hop and it’s the music I respect.” So says Marshalll Bruce Mathers III – better known as Eminem, the American ‘rapper’ who has been credited with popularising ‘rap’ among white audiences, not only in the States but worldwide. He was born in Missouri in 1972 but his parents separated shortly afterwards and he was brought up in poverty by his mother. His first ambition was to be a comicbook artist. However, he formed a rap duo with his friend Mike while still in High School; they were known as MnM which soon changed to “Eminem”. His Slim Shady album, released in 1999, achieved global success and also notoriety because of the often controversial subject matter. He was taken up by top rap artist Dr Dre and is credited with record sales of more than 220 million. He has won 15 Grammys and been inducted into the Rock ’n Roll Hall of Fame. Always open about his use of drugs, both prescription and illegal, he published his autobiography, The Way I Am, in 2008. Well known for his feuds with other artists, including the late Michael Jackson, he has dated some famous women, and married old flame Kim Scott twice! Their daughter Hailie was born in 1995 but the couple divorced for the second time in 2007. He has also adopted his niece’s daughter. He has criticised Donald Trump and spoken out against the restriction of women’s rights to safe abortion in many US states. His album Music to be Murdered By, released in 2020, ensured that his reputation remains as controversial as ever!

MANICURE SETS

Manicure sets – a selection of small tools which enabled women, and men, to trim and look after their nails – were a popular gift through most of the 20th century. Caring for one’s fingernails has a much longer history than most of us realise. The earliest manicure set was actually discovered by archaeologists among the ruins of Ancient Babylon –present-day Iraq – and vintage nail care items have also been discovered in Greece, Egypt and India. They were often used to indicate class or caste, and in China, long, well cared-for nails were seen as a sign of masculinity. The doctor treating France’s King Louis XV in the 18th century is credited with popularising nail care. After removing an inflamed burr from the royal finger, he created a manicure set for the common people. In the 20th century, nail care became fashionable; a set called ‘Beauty Mate’ was on sale and movie stars like Rita Hayworth popularised scarlet nails. By the Second World War it was estimated that 86% of American women were using nail products. However, in more recent times ‘having your nails done’ has become professionalised when artificial acrylic resin was introduced. By the mid-1980s, gel technology had become popular and in 2022 the global nail salon market was valued at US$11 billion.

2000s

JUSTIN BIEBER

The young Canadian singer and teen idol has been credited with having re-invented pop stardom for the 21st century, often using social media to promote himself and his work. His 2010 debut album My World, topped the US charts, making Justin the youngest solo male artist to achieve that in 47 years. By 2021 he had broken Elvis Presley’s record of eight Number One albums. The fan frenzy created by his followers – known as ‘Beliebers’ is reminiscent of the chaos created by fans of the Beatles in the sixties, Elvis in the fifties, and Frank Sinatra in the forties.

Justin was born to teenage parents and brought up by his mother. He learned to play several musical instruments and joined local groups until he was discovered when he was just 13 by executive Scooter Brown, and encouraged to make some demos. Success came quickly and was followed by more releases and worldwide tours. He named his influences as the Beatles, Michael Jackson and Stevie Wonder, and says that he wants to be the kind of artist who is respected by everybody. He has collaborated with other top artists including a duet with Ariana Grande which was released to benefit victims of the Covid pandemic. In 2013 and 2014 his clean-cut image took a knock because of some of his on-stage antics, but marriage to model Hailey in 2018 seemed to settle him down and in May this year the couple announced they were expecting their first baby. Justin and his wife are supporters of several animal charities and also generous donors to disaster relief.

(Next door to the Gran Plaza

HEALTH

is the new Wealth

DR THOMAS KAISER OF THE FAMILY MEDICAL CENTRE, WITH PRACTICES IN VALE DO LOBO AND QUINTA DO LAGO, BELIEVES THAT PREVENTATIVE MEASURES ARE VITAL TO KEEP PATIENTS IN THE BEST OF HEALTH

IAM SURE you have heard the saying “health is not everything but nothing is worth anything without health”. Most of us would agree with this wisdom and some may have experienced good examples that confirm this statement – the biggest house and the most flashy car cannot be appreciated with horrible toothache or worse things, like a heart attack.

In practice, however, we often only act when a problem has occurred. Preventative health measures seem to be less popular – patients seek medical attention quite readily when they have toothache but going to the doctor to avoid a heart attack in ten years’ time is a conscientious effort that we will make if we are informed and feel that the problem could affect us.

Curative medicine is the easy part, immediately gratifying for patient and doctor. It is also easy to measure and there are gold standards on what should happen, a ‘best practice’ for how a heart attack should be treated, for example.

deal with their heart attack in the future.

Here is how I see excellent medicine being practised: the good doctor, like a good lawyer, should not scare the client with unnecessary fears of problems that are unlikely to occur. A good doctor should be a role model; a good doctor should take pride in seeing their patients regularly before problems occur; a good doctor is empathetic, kind, a good listener, well informed and loves what they do.

Unfortunately, in normal medicine, these ideals are difficult to achieve. The average doctor has significant time constraints, and suffers bureaucratic obstacles.

A good doctor should take pride in seeing their patients regularly before problems occur.

In preventative medicine, the situation is less clear. It starts with the persona of the doctor or nurse. An overweight doctor who smokes could still be regarded as a good health professional and might be well liked because he is a ‘normal’ person who may have weaknesses.

It is easy for a doctor to be regarded as psychorigid if they are passionate about prevention. Doctors do brag about how they saved the last heart attack patient but I have not met one who boasts that only ten percent of his patients are overweight and all those with high blood pressure are treated.

You see where I am going... my patients would certainly blame me for not treating heart attacks in the right way, but I could become quite unpopular if I were to call on overweight and hypertensive patients monthly to monitor and treat them because I do not want to

I have been lucky to work in an environment where we have ample time to address all medical problems and where we can put emphasis on both prevention and cure. I have also been privileged to be able to give back my knowledge and experience to fantastic younger colleagues who I train in a collegial and fear-free atmosphere – a method we call “Intergenerational enhanced two-way training”.

In my two clinics we are about to launch a Concierge Membership Scheme. It is tailormade for clients who want to take their health seriously and are prepared to invest effort and money in having a good doctor on their side 24/7 on their terms and not when the NHS can eventually give them a ten-minute slot.

A MESSAGE FROM DR KAISER

I started this month’s article with the slogan: “Health is not everything but nothing is worth anything without health”. I would like to end with two more favourites: “Peace of mind is the new success” and “Kindness is the new cool!”

Manuela, a German beautician with 30-years experience, offers the latest technologies at her Almancil salon, including:

Portuguese tax residents and UK Inheritance Tax (IHT)

DESPITE MOVING TO PORTUGAL AND ESTABLISHING RESIDENCY, MOST BRITISH NATIONALS WILL BE UK DOMICILED FOR THE PURPOSES OF UK IHT AND THEREFORE THEIR ESTATE WILL BE SUBJECT TO 40% TAX ON DEATH (ABOVE EXEMPTIONS).

MARK QUINN AND DEBRAH BROADFIELD

OF THE SPECTRUM IFA EXPLAIN

PORTUGUESE tax residents must consider any Portuguese succession tax liability (officially a Gift Tax). It is only applied to assets located in Portugal – property, savings, bank accounts, etc –that pass to non-direct line ascendants or descendants. It is worth noting that there is no Double Tax Treaty that covers IHT, and so when making your financial plan, even if you intend to make a non-UK domicile claim, it is prudent to plan for the worst and keep detailed records.

What is UK IHT exempt?

Every individual has an exemption of £325,000 (nil-rate band), but this increases to £500,000 (inclusion of the residential nilrate-band) where your main home is passed to your children or grandchildren, and your estate is below £2m. A couple can therefore have an exemption of up to £1,000,000.

In addition to this, savings in pension plans are exempt.

Options to reduce your UK IHT liability

Potentially exempt transfer (PET): A PET is exempt from IHT if the donor survives seven years. If death occurs before this, taper relief is given reducing the amount of IHT due on a sliding scale. Examples of PETs are outright gifts of cash or assets to another person and can be unlimited in value.

Chargeable lifetime transfer (CLT): Unlike a PET, a CLT is immediately assessed for IHT and potentially chargeable. If the gift value falls within your nil rate band there is no tax to pay, anything in excess will be taxed at 20%. CLTs are cumulative and there is a look back period of seven years, which can reduce the available nil rate band. An example of a CLT is a gift to a discretionary trust.

Care must be taken as it can get very complicated where several CLTs and PETs are made over a period, and the look back period can go as far back as 14 years, potentially bringing previously exempt gifts into the estate for taxation.

Charity: Any charitable donations left on death will not be included when calculating your taxable estate. Additionally, if you leave 10% or more to charity the rate of IHT is reduced to 36%, which can increase the amount your beneficiaries ultimately receive, even when taking into account the gift.

Annual exemption: Every person has an annual gift allowance of £3,000 and any unused allowance can be carried forward for 1 UK tax year.

Small Gifts Exemptions: You can give up to £250 p.a. to

as many individuals as you like. The limit is per person, and you cannot combine it with any other allowance used to the same person.

Non-standard pensions: QNUPS: It is possible to establish Qualifying Non-UK Pension Schemes which can be IHT exempt. Whilst these are a type of pension, they are established with a capital sum and do not receive tax relief. One must be careful when setting these up if the intention is to mitigate UK IHT as they could be seen as tax avoidance if they are overfunded, illiquid or if there is no need for additional pension provision, eg if you have large pensions elsewhere. If they are set up for genuine pension provision purposes, eg with actuarial justification for income, they can be a good tool to employ.

Gift out of normal expenditure: This is the most generous of the exemptions as they are immediately outside of your estate for IHT (no need to wait seven years) and the amount is unlimited. However, you must be careful to meet the criteria:

– Gift needs to be made from income, not capital

– Gift must be regular, not a one-off

– Gift cannot affect/reduce your standard of living

– You must have mental capacity. Representatives cannot authorise such gifts.

– You cannot fund your lifestyle/care home costs from capital, and then gift income. The gift must sit on top of this.

The assessment as to whether the gift was successful will be on death so you must ensure that you keep accurate records as your executors will have to declare your income and expenditure for each year you intend to claim this relief.

A claim will only be successful if there is excess income.

ASK THE EXPERTS

With over 35 years' experience, Debrah Broadfield and Mark Quinn are Chartered Financial Planners (level 6) and Tax Advisers specialising in cross-border advice for expatriates in Portugal on financial and tax planning issues.

REMOVALS

REMOVALS

• Weekly removal service to and from the UK, Portugal and Malaga, Spain

STORAGE

• Weekly removal service to and from the UK, Portugal and Malaga, Spain

• Full or part packing and wrapping service

STORAGE

• Storage warehouses located in the UK, Algarve, Lisbon and Malaga, Spain

• Storage warehouses located in the UK, Algarve, Lisbon and Malaga, Spain

• Shop online with any furniture retailer and have your items delivered the following week

• Shop online with any furniture retailer have your items delivered the following

• Full or part packing and wrapping service

• Fully insured, secure and alarmed

• Fully insured, secure and alarmed

• One/multiple items of furniture

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• One box to full house removals

• One box to full house removals

• Villa to villa moves within the Algarve

• Storage available for long or short term

• Villa to villa moves within the Algarve

• Storage available for long or short term

• All customs paperwork and procedures taken care by our in house customs experts

Your money

RICARDO CHAVES OF ALL FINANCE MATTERS IS HERE TO HELP PEOPLE UNDERSTAND AND DEAL WITH WHAT IS ALLOWABLE – AND NOT – WHEN IT COMES TO FINANCIAL MATTERS IN PORTUGAL. THIS MONTH, QUESTIONS INCLUDE THE VALUE

OF GETTING YOUR NIF ON ALL RECEIPTS, ISA s, MEDICAL AND TRAVEL INSURANCE FOR SENIORS

QIs it really worth the hassle of getting your NIF on every receipt, including supermarket shopping, and then having to hold an entire file of paper receipts? How much, in all honesty, will that save off the taxes I pay as a freelance design consultant? Does it make sense when you could be spending your time on other, non-work-related things, like that extra round of golf?

In Portugal, many of the tax deductions are associated with the faturas that carry your NIF during the year. Depending on the activity sector you may get a tax deduction, based on the amount spent, providing you associate the fatura on your tax portal, with the associated tax deduction. However, please note that you will only be entitled to the deduction if you pay tax at the progressive tax rates.

These are some of available deductions: Up to €250 on general expenses (if you spend €715) per year; up to €1,000 in medical expenses (if you spend €6,666 per year); up to €800 on educational expenses (if you spend €2,666). In addition, you can also get 15% of the VAT on invoices from vets, hairdressers, restaurants and hotels, or car maintenance; this can be a deduction of up to €250 (if you spend approximately €8,930 per year).

QAre there any really watertight investment plans here, like the ISAs in the UK once were, that will almost guarantee a decent percentage return on your investment? I am looking to move around £80,000 of savings, which is currently in a low-performance UK scheme, which I’d like to see generating a better income.

It’s important to note that all investments carry some level of risk, and there are no guarantees of a ‘watertight’ investment. The best choice depends on your risk tolerance, investment goals, and the time frame for your investment.

It’s always advisable to consult with an independent financial advisor who understands the local market and can provide personalised advice that is tailored to your specific situation.

In Portugal, there isn’t an equivalent to the UK ISAs scheme. The most tax-efficient investments are compliant bonds or life assurance investments, most contracted through banks or insurance companies. You will find that these can offer some tax advantages, but you need to be aware that the tax benefits are much lower than those available with ISAs.

QI am NHR and have continued with my international medical insurance which covers my wife and me for every country other than the USA. That said, we hardly travel nowadays other than within mainland Europe and occasionally to the UK to see family. I am over 80 and my wife is 79. What would you recommend me to do – the international coverage is hugely expensive and thankfully, we haven’t actually needed it recently? If you travel only occasionally, travel insurance could be a cost-effective alternative or supplement to your medical insurance. It can cover unexpected medical emergencies during your trips. Some insurance companies offer plans specifically designed for seniors, which might provide better coverage or rates.

As your travel habits and health needs change, it’s important to review your coverage regularly to ensure it still meets your needs.

Always consult with a professional – insurance can be complex, especially when it involves international travel and medical coverage.

Please note that this is general advice and might not apply to your specific situation, which is why it is advisable to consult with an insurance professional to better understand your options. Insurance regulations vary from country to country, and it’s advisable to check the specifics in your country of residence. Stay safe and healthy in your travels!

PLEASE NOTE: tax laws can be complex and change frequently, so it’s always a good idea to consult with a tax professional or legal advisor for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

Send questions you may have to info@afm.tax for possible inclusion in AlgarvePLUS. To consult directly with the experts at AFM, email info@afm.tax

QI took some items to the local dry cleaners and they have been ruined. I didn’t realise until I returned home that my large and very expensive hand embroidered bedspread is torn in two areas and has coloured marks in a few others. When I took it in, it simply needed refreshing and now it is unusable. I went back to the cleaners who said it was not their problem. What should I do – can I do – to recoup the value of the spread (very many hundreds of euros) and also to warn others to avoid this place?

AFirstly, gather evidence incuding taking clear, detailed photos of the damaged bedspread. Keep the receipts, ensuring that you have the receipt or any documentation from the dry cleaner when you dropped off the item and any written communication regarding the issue. Send a formal letter, either written by you or preferably by a lawyer, explaining the situation, requesting the payment of the damages (the value of the items) and if you choose, compensation for moral damages, meaning the stress you incurred due to this situation.

In Portugal, there is an association to defend consumer rights (DECO), with whom you can file a claim, and they will try to help solving your problem without going to court. If you become a member of the association there are additional support and resources available. There are also official mediation centres for consumer disputes – much cheaper than going to court. You can find the list at consumidor.gov.pt/mapa-ral-simplex-

GOING LEGAL

LEGAL EXPERTS NELSON RAMOS AND ROBERTA RAMOS WHO, TOGETHER WITH THEIR SPECIALIST TEAM AT RAMOS & ASSOCIADOS IN ALMANCIL, ADVISE CLIENTS ON FARREACHING QUESTIONS. THIS MONTH, THEY LOOK AT A BUSINESS FAILING TO MEET ITS OBLIGATIONS, AND NONPAYMENT OF INVOICES FOR WORK DONE

out_2017/lista-de-centros-de-arbitragem-econflitos-de-consumo.aspx

Should none of the above work, you can resort to the Julgados de Paz (Small Claims Courts) whose decision can be legally enforced. Find out more about these courts at conselhodosjulgadosdepaz.com.pt/ However, if you opt for a full scale judicial procedure with the help of a lawyer, the dry cleaner could be ordered to pay for losses as well as moral damage.

Regarding public awareness of poor standards of service, our advice is that whatever you publish in social media or online reviews is accurate, and can be proven, sticking to the facts, and avoiding judgements of character.

QWhat is the situation when a business fails to pay its bills and ignores phone calls and emails? An established company asked me to do some freelance work for them, setting up their social media platforms, writing blogs, selecting and sizing images and posting them. I did the work, having pre-agreed a fee, and invoiced them when all was completed. It has been several months now and I have had no response, or payment; my verbal agreement and invoice both included payment due dates, and they are using the material I produced for them.

AYou may start by consulting a lawyer, preferably one with experience in commercial or contract law, who can provide legal advice tailored to your specific situation. Note that a verbal agreement can

be a valid contract. In our assessment, taking the following steps should be of assistance when it comes to getting your invoices paid.

You or your lawyer can start by sending a formal letter to the company, requesting payment of the outstanding invoice and detailing the work performed, the agreed fee, and the due date for payment. This letter would mention the consequences of nonpayment, namely the legal actions and the costs associated with it. Should you send this letter yourself, do it via registered mail to ensure you have proof that it was received.

From our experience, hiring a debt collection agency is not very common in the Algarve, but these specialist agencies exist and are certainly an option.

If private actions fail, you may have to resort to the courts of law. Your lawyer might advise you to file an injunction, which is a relatively quick procedure, if it is an undisputed debt. Once you file for an injunction with the court, the debtor will be formally notified to pay the debt.

However, presenting all evidence and the detailed description of the facts, makes this procedure more complex, more costly, and it will take longer.

As always, we emphasise the importance of a paper trail, as from our experience we are of the opinion that a very relevant factor, if not the most relevant factor in a court of law, is evidence, as even if the judge is persuaded that your claim is valid, he or she will need evidence that will support a decision in your favour.

Email questions for Ramos Associados to martin@algarveplusmagazine.com

Italian Dining Experience & Lifestyle Destination

Set

Algarve'sPremier

OPERAÇÃO BANGKOK – PARTE II

Galeria Trem – Manuel Baptista Rua do Trem 5, Faro

On until 25 August

Group exhibition, curated by Susana Rodrigues: Carlos Lobo, Christine Henry, Coletivo Artadentro, Edgar Pêra, Elisabete Sousa, Joana Patrão, João Pedro Trindade, José Oliveira, Marco Mendes, Maria Trabulo, Paulo Mendes in a celebration of Portugal’s 50 years of democracy. The artists present narratives, visions, sounds, sensations, reflections and questions about the spaces we inhabit.

DAVID YARROW

In the Pink Gallery for Fine

Photo Art

Praça da República 69-75 Loulé, 289 462 320 in-the-pink.com

Exhibition opens 19 July

An exclusive exhibition of works by one of the world’s best-known photographers – studies of sports, wild life, travel.

ANIMAL LIFE

Museu do Traje, São Brás 966 329 073

admin@amigosdomuseu.com

27 June to 2 September

New exhibition, packed with charm.

ARVAD ALGARVE

Galeria Meinke Flesseman

R. Infante Dom Henrique 126 , Portimão, 917 937 564, meinke-flesseman.com, Opens 6 July, 18h00, on until 4 September

PEDRO RODRIGUEZ

Tavira d’Artes, Tavira 962 012 111 taviradartes@gmail.com taviradartes.com Thames, oil on panel, 100x100cm

Colectivo Artadentro is a group of artists from the Algarve who have been exhibiting individually and collectively throughout the country. The key names are: Ana André, Christine Henry, Miguel Cheta, Paulo Serra, Vasco Célio, and Vasco Vidigal; joining for this exhibition are Filipe Paixão and Meinke Flesseman. Painting, drawing, sculpture, photography and projection will be presented at this contemporary art show.

DOM PATTINSON

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

Part of new group exhibition that opens 12 July

Ladies Night, mixed media on canvas, 140x140cm. Wannabe, mixed media on canvas, 140x140cm.

DAVID SCHMITT

Gama Rama

Rua do Prior 13, Faro 961 371 891

12 July to 14 September

Thoughts From The Thicket is a series of works created during an artistic residency organised by Gama Rama at Estúdio Yucca, Cabanas. David Schmitt, aka ‘Tuyo’, is a self-taught German artist from Barcelona who focuses on organic forms, archaic symbols, and a childlike approach.

MUSIC

República 14, Olhão

republica14.pt, reservas@republica14.pt

6 July, 21h00

CRISTINA CLARA with Pedro Loch present an evening where traditional songs from Portugal and Cape Verde meet, passing through Brazil in a journey between original and revisited themes. After releasing her first album, Lua Adversa in 2021, and bringing her Primavera to the Festival Da Canção 2024, Cristina returns to República 14 to showcase the dazzling new works she has been preparing.

13 July, 21h00

RODA DE SAMBA – with Nani Medeiros and band. A night of much music, dance, and warmth with this fantastic group of ‘Sambistas’. Food and drinks will match the occasion.

19 July, 21h00

CHICO NO FEMININO is a project by Sara Badalo that pays tribute to the music of Chico Buarque through the songs that Chico wrote in the feminine, or portraying female characters. The group consists of Sara Badalo on vocals; Leo Vrillaud on piano/keyboard; Luis Henrique on electric bass/ double bass; Leonardo Tomich on drums, and Marcos Badalo on acoustic/ electric guitar.

Amigos de Música

amigosdemusica.org reservasconcertos@gmail.com for concert bookings

During the first six months of 2024, the Amigos de Música have organised ten concerts at the charming Auditorium of Monte Os Agostos near Santa Bárbara de Nexe with exceptional artists from Slovenia, Italy, England, and Portugal. All concerts were fully booked and there were waiting lists for each one.

During the hot summer months of July and August, the Amigos de Música concerts will take a welldeserved break. The concert season 2024/25 will open

on 10 and 12 September, featuring a well-known piano and cello duo from Germany, Holger Groschopp and Adele Bitter.

For more information about the forthcoming concert programme, visit the website. For Membership enquiries please contact helga.hampton@gmail.com

27 July, 21h00

DIOGO PICÃO writes songs about everyday life, social relationships, the enchantment of life, nature, romantic illusions, and a handful of other things, as essential as bread. His second album, Palavras Caras, is filled with fun, beautiful, profound songs with a contagious rhythm, featuring guests like Salvador Sobral, Mônica Salmaso, and Luca Argel.

Candlelight concerts

Fever’s Candlelight concerts return with a special summer programme for the Algarve of live multi-sensory musical experiences in iconic spaces with the glow of thousands of candles. Info at feverup.com

THE BEST OF QUEEN

Hotel Tivoli Vilamoura Marina 19 July, 21h30 Tickets: €21.50

THE BEST OF COLDPLAY

Hotel Vila Galé, Lagos 20 July, 21h30, Tickets: €21.50

ELTON JOHN TRIBUTE

27 July, 20h00–22h00 Vale do Lobo Parque do Golf Elite Elton is renowned worldwide, with TV and radio broadcasts, and accolades from the National Entertainment Awards and National Music Tribute Awards. Performing on a live baby grand piano and joined by some of the UK’s finest professional musicians, Elite Elton promises a truly unique experience. The show features live drums, bass, guitar, and vocals, combined with authentic pre-recorded orchestral and brass ensembles.

MAGIC FLUTE

The Algarve Orchestra 12 July, 20h30–22h00, Vale Do Lobo Tennis Academy Opera in concert – a selection of arias, duets, and ensemble numbers from the opera The Magic Flute. Under the direction of maestro Pablo Urbina (Guest Conductor), the soprano, tenor, and baritone soloists will bring this timeless story to life.

THE DIXIE DUDES

JAZZ BAND

Museu do Traje, São Brás 966 329 073 admin@amigosdomuseu.com amigosdomuseu.com 13 July, 18h00 Jazz performance in the Museum gardens Tickets €12 (Amigos €10)

EXPERIENCES

WE ARE NOT ARTISTS SECOND LIFE

Mar Shopping (In front of the Mango store) 2 July, 11h30, till 21st Exhibition of the work of students in the PIEF class (Integrated Education and Training Programme) of the Dra. Laura Ayres School Group. This ecological initiative combines the spirit of recycling with artistic transformation and is also a strategy for working with students who are failing at school. Past ventures have been hugely successful giving these youngsters pride and new-found interests.

Vale do Lobo

valedolobo.com

Fascia Training

Tuesdays, 10h00–11h00

Fitness Centre

Core & Stretching

Wednesdays, 10h00–11h00

Fitness Centre

Social Padel Challenge

Fridays, 18h30–21h30

Tennis Academy

Tournament Round Robin Wednesdays, 16h00–18h00

Tennis Academy

Golf Guest Day

6 July, 08h00–18h00

Parque do Golf

Junior Golf Academy

July–August, 17h00–19h00

Vale do Lobo Golf Club

Loulé Criativo

loulecriativo@cm-loule.pt, loulecriativo.pt FB: @loulecriativo, IG: @loule_criativo

NEW FLORAL ARRANGEMENT IN A BASKET

11 July, Palácio Gama Lobo, Loulé Partner: Aude Touly (read more about Aude’s work on page 52) Registration: floweraude@gmail.com

SEWING WORKSHOP FOR CHILDREN AND TEENAGERS – LEVEL I

24, 25, 26 July, Palácio Gama Lobo, Loulé Partners: Verónica Tomé and Ana Guerra Registration: v.tome@sapo.pt

BY APPOINTMENT

CATAPLANA ALGARVIA Partner: Vitor Veloso Registration: aurora.restaurant.info@gmail.com

EMBROIDERY ON GARMENTS

Palácio Gama Lobo, Loulé Partner: Flavia Ferreira Registration: flaviaferreiradias@gmail.com

TILE PAINTING

Partner: Bernardette Martins Registration: bernadetteceramics@gmail.com

WORKING THE PALM

Palácio Gama Lobo, Loulé Partner: Craftswomen from Casa da Empreita Registration: loulecriativo@cm-loule.pt

Gypsy and Farmers’ markets

We’ve listed here the day of the week/month for the various local markets. Check myguidealgarve.com/usefulinfo/markets-on-thealgarve for exact locations and times. Get there early – especially in the summer months as parking can be difficult in some places and a good walk is necessary. Food is usually available in the bigger markets – follow the billowing smoke from the barbecue stands – but you will find snacks like bifanas (pork sandwiches) and for those with a sweet tooth, fried churros and farturas.

Alcantarilha 1st Friday

Algoz 2nd Monday

Aljezur 3rd Monday

Alte 3rd Thursday

Almancil 1st and 4th Sundays

Alvor Every Sunday

Ameixial 1st Thursday

Azinhal 1st Sunday

Barão de São Miguel 1st Monday

Benafim 1st Saturday

Boliqueime Last Thursday

Budgens 1st Tuesday

Castro Marim 2nd Saturday

Cortelha 2nd Saturday

Estói 2nd Sunday

Ferreiras 2nd & 4th Tuesdays

Guia 3rd Friday

Fuzeta 1st Thursday

Lagoa 2nd Sunday (not in Aug)

Lagos 1st Saturday

Loulé Every Saturday

Moncarapacho 1st Sunday

Monchique 2nd Friday

Montenegro 1st Sunday

Odiáxere 4th Monday

Paderne 1st Saturday

Pereiro 4th Sunday

Portimão 1st Monday (not in August or November)

Quarteira Every Wednesday

Quelfes 4th & 5th Sundays

Querença Last Sunday

Raposeira 1st Wednesday

Rogil 4th Sunday

Santa Catarina 4th Sunday

São Bartolomeu de Messines 4th Monday

S. Brás de Alportel Every Saturday

São Marcos da Serra 1st Saturday

Silves 3rd Monday

Tavira 3rd Saturday

Tunes 4th Saturday

Vaqueiros 2nd Thursday

Vila do Bispo 1st Thursday

Vila Nova de Cacela 3rd Sunday

Vila Real de Santo António 1st Sunday

And don’t forget, Farmers’ Market at Quinta Shopping, first Sunday of the month.

Sand city

EN125, Sítio dos Lombos 252-A, 8400-395 Lagoa, 969 459 259, geral@prosandart.com, sandcity.pt

FIESA - the International Sand Sculpture Festival is the largest exhibition of sand sculptures in the world and this year boasts some 120 works by more than 60 different artists, based on international themes, well-known personalities, or simple curiosities. It is an extraordinary site and makes for a brilliant day outing for the whole family.

OPENING HOURS

Until 15 September, 10h00 to 23h00

Open every day. 16 September–20 October 10h00 to 19h00

Open every day. 21 October–15 November, 10h00 to 18h00 Closed on Sundays and Mondays.

Free parking for 300 cars. Ticket prices vary - check the website for information.

HE

A nd f inally

TUNED

IN

AND TURNED OFF. THAT ’ S THE EFFECT THIS YEAR ’ S EUROVISION SONG CONTEST HAD ON ANTHONY MARTIN IT WAS THE CONTESTANTS ’ STANCE THAT GOT HIM, WHEN THEY USED THE OCCASION TO MAKE STATEMENTS ABOUT THEMSELVES RATHER THAN DELIVER A SONG FOR THEIR COUNTRY

ONCE UPON a time, in the notso-distant past, there was a man called Reith, John Reith, a highly principled, ex-army, Scottish son of a Reverend, who went on to become, in 1927, the BBC’s first Director General and the first Baron Reith. This lord had an autocratic view on life – so autocratic that in the early 1930s he believed a certain Mr A. Hitler’s methods of bringing order to his country were admirable.

I open with this only because I watched some of Eurovision 2024 on what was Reith’s BBC, and wondered what he, with his insistence on formally dressed newsreaders and received pronunciation (this being “educated speech as used in southern England”) would make of his beloved baby’s transmissions today, 53 years after his death. And a certain Mr A. Hitler would definitely have had a few words to say.

I, being a liberal, live-andlet-live sort of bloke, who doesn’t give a flying fig regarding the sexual preferences of consenting adults, was admittedly astonished at the sight of a pink ball of candy floss in a white mini skirt shrieking and prancing across a large stage like a demented pixie.

person who went under the enchanting name of Bambi Thug (the surname being the best description; you coud not fail to ask yourself how such a wonderful country could produce such a foul-mouthed, bigoted, talentless trainee harridan). And why did they find it necessary, in an interview, to scream “I am a Lez” along with a few choice four-letter words?

Who really cares about their sexual orientation? Do they really think that what they bring into society is new, that they are the first to claim gender fluidity, and that they will actually change the world? Perhaps they should get out more and stop wrapping themselves up in their own perceived importance – unless they are hell-bent on careercide.

Being a liberal, live-and-let-live sort of bloke, I don’t give a flying fig about the sexual preferences of consenting adults

The name of the pixie was Nemo and they (their choice of pronoun) are Swiss. Perhaps they were presenting as counterpoint to our perceived image of Swiss gnomic bankers and finishing schools for the children of the upper echelons of European society.

But, returning to the laughingly called Eurovision Song Contest (‘song contest’ is without doubt the misnomer of the year), even though I personally thought, in a Eurovisionary sort of way, the Swiss song was quite good.

Unlike the Irish entry, also sung by a non-binary

This annual camp-fest has long been a political ‘Gotcha’ when each country with a vote can reward or punish another as political bias is introduced.

For instance, the Nordic countries all vote for their geographic neighbours, Greece and Cyprus give each other the top score and if Russia, when they were in the contest, didn’t get top votes from some nine other countries, there would be hell to pay.

But what I find most amazing is that there are broadcasters who sincerely believe that this is what viewers want and beam it around the world in the name of entertainment. Are these entrants the role models we want as inspiration for our grandchildren? I don’t think that by pandering to those of a supposedly ‘alternative’ lifestyle the BBC will protect its world-wide reputation. Or have the BBC bigwigs decided that being a little ‘edgy’ is the fastest route to take younger viewers from the streaming stations and therefore guaranteeing an increase in the license fee.

And you, Lord Reith, were you still here, I’m sure these shenanigans would have you remembering the very first broadcast message made by Samuel Morse 180 years ago: “What Hath God Wrought?”