algarvePLUS - May '22

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The best properties are sold without advertising

Contact us if you wish to buy or sell

Office + 351 289 355 697

Mobile + 351 919 136 146

Centro O Tradicional - Almancil

hildegard@sevenquintas.com

www.sevenquintas.com

Seven Quintas Property Search Mediação Imobilaria Lda. - AMI 7490

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SUSI ROGOL-GOODKIND, EDITOR

+351 965 581 831 | susi@algarveplusmagazine.com

C O N T A C T S MARTIN GOODKIND

KIM COLLEY

Publisher +351 963 146 398 martin@algarveplusmagazine.com

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

APT 1093, EC Olivas de St Ant (Loulé) 8101-904. Printed by Gráficas Piquer, Almeria AlgarvePLUS is published monthly. 6,000 copies are made available through a hand-picked distribution network from Tavira to Guia, Almancil, the Golden Triangle, Loulé, São Brás and Santa Bárbara.

Copyright 2022. All rights reserved. Reproduction of any written material or illustration in any form for any purpose other than short extracts for agreed review purposes, is strictly forbidden.

AlgarvePLUS does not accept liability for loss or damage to any materials submitted for publication. Or claims made by advertisers.

The views expressed by interviewees or contributors do not necessarily reflect those of the Editor or AlgarvePLUS. algarveplusmagazine.com

facebook.com/algarveplusmag

instagram.com/algarveplusmagazine

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As our April issue went out, copies were snapped up faster than ever and people were emailing and phoning saying: “love it”, “thank you”, “learned from it” and even “can you post future issues to me in Germany/France/Holland/UK” (there was one from Austin, Texas, too!).

Very pleasing, hugely flattering, and at the same time wildly frustrating. So for May, we’ve upped the print run (though we are suffering the consequences of big increases in paper, printing and transportation costs), and promised our key distribution points that our twice-monthly deliveries will be increased to weekly.

One of the comments that comes back time and time again, is: “Until I read this issue, I didn’t know about that place, this business, those people”, so it looks like we have got a pretty good formula going, and we are certainly happy with the balance and our mission to keep the content 100 percent Portugal.

In this issue, we’ve looked at everything from national parks to local artisans, slow travel to sustainable fashion, places to eat while soaking up the sun, and operators who will create the perfect agenda.

The delight is that there is so much around us to experience. All you have to do is look, listen and take new adventures on board.

We have fresh contributors joining the team almost every month – well-travelled, highly-regarded, published writers – as well as the occasional newbie who has something to say and wants to share it with others. Being able to open new doors to emerging talents is one of the joys of publishing, and nothing gives an editor more pleasure than discovering someone special. Except, perhaps, a reader saying “love it”, “thank you”, “learned from it”.

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Welcome

The finest art in the Algarve. Tavira d’artes Art Gallery.

www.taviradartes.com Visit us: Travessa Jacques Pessoa 8,Tavira, 8800-374 Call us: 962 012 111 Email us: taviradartes@gmail.com www.facebook.com/taviradartes

www.instagram.com/tavira.dartes

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Chilli Boy Spicy Strawberry Jam on warm toast turns breakfast into something of a taste sensation.

Rich and sweet, you may never want marmalade again. €5.95. chilliboy.com

F R O N T COV E R : Get down to the farm – the mushroom farm, that is. Not a field in sight.

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MOR E EX PE R I E N C E S TH A N YOU E V E R I M AGI N E D

BLOOMING LOVELY MyFace has developed a collection, Eden Planter, that can be produced in fibreglass, or in a resin and stone powder composite, which can live beautifully in both indoor and outdoor areas. There are six styles, ranging from 50cm to 100cm high, and 50cm to 60cm wide.

Prices start at €570. myface.eu

IF YOU HAVE ANYTHING YOU WOULD LIKE TO SHARE EMAIL susi@algarveplusmagazine.com

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TRAY BIEN Set of two painted trays, 70x38cm and 49x26cm, €32. kitandcaboodle.pt

DOING WHAT COMES NATURALLY Burel Factory, up in the Serra da Estrela, brings together mountain stories and Portuguese design in a range of blankets, cushions, bags and backpacks, and fashion. The factory machines are 19th century, and many patterns come from old books. The wool is from local sheep, and the vision is one of respect for the environment, and history. Blankets start at €134. Order online at burelfactory.com

STICK WITH US Cast metal stick sculptures, in the style of Alberto Giacometti, tall and elegant at 160cm high. €210. corterealarte.com

HATS OFF Or rather hats on, now the sun is out and the heat is up. There’s a great selection at Martina, by the side of the market. These are made of cotton ribbon and have shapeable brims. €50–€100.

There are others made in straw and paper. martina-loule.com

SEA THIS This handmade ocean-themed earthenware vase with a five-glaze finish is part of a wide range of ceramics and home décor pieces at Oliveira in Tavira, a treasure trove of home furnishings. 27cm high, €90. byoliveira.com

wish list

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SITTING PRETTY Bamboo and coloured rope pouffes, made in India and sold through Candi Interiors in Almancil. 31cm and 38cm high. Set of two, €100. candilamp.pt

IMAGE: JORIEN DOHERTY THE HAPPY GUT COACH

Designed by in-Petto, and handmade in the centre of Portugal, this pottery range includes oven dishes in a variety of colours and sizes, priced from €17.50. You can make a date to see the collection in Boliquieme. 910 440 728 groothandel@in-petto.nl in-petto.nl

Annie Moore teaches yoga and meditation from her Yoga Sala at Casa Vida, near Loulé. Her call to healing and wellness came when her daughter was diagnosed with ME at the age of 12.

Annie turned to alternative therapies for assistance and cure; the recovery was a success, and it led Annie to the redirection of her career.

In 2014, Annie tragically lost her son to acute myeloid leukaemia. Tom had been a great sportsman, but his ambition to run a marathon was not to be. Annie took up running, was accepted for the London Marathon, and raised £6,000 for the Blood Cancer UK charity. Through her book, Words to Heal and Nurture the Soul, available from Amazon, Annie guides readers on a journey of healing and transformation so they can create a more positive life, filled with love, happiness and peace.

Annie also runs a health and wellness spa – Vidatherapy – in South West London.

To enquire about classes, contact Annie at moorwellbeing@gmail.com

BAGS OF STYLE Toin Abel is a Portuguese brand, a new generation of crafters with a mission to lead by example. Its designer bags are made of Portuguese reeds, resurrecting the ancestral technique of basketry that was facing extinction.

Sustainability is the key word, and style is a priority. Great colours in the collection. This is style is Justine, €119. toinoabel.com/

IF YOU HAVE ANYTHING YOU WOULD LIKE TO SHARE EMAIL susi@algarveplusmagazine.com

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DISHING UP

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LIFE CHANGES

OPEN SPACES W E H AV E F I N E C I T I E S , E N C H A N T I N G V I L L AG E S , A N D G LO R I O U S B E AC H E S . A D D I N G TO T H E PAC K AG E O F D E LI G H T S A R E T H E C O U N T R Y ’ S N AT U R A L PA R K S , A N D I N PA R T I C U L A R I T S O N E N AT I O N A L PA R K I N T H E N O R T H W H E R E W I L D A N I M A L S R O A M F R E E A N D T H E V I E W S A R E S P E C TA C U L A R BRIAN REDMOND

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ORTUGAL IS, for its size, relatively

underpopulated, with huge open spaces, vast plains, mountain ranges and unspoilt rugged coastal regions. There are designated sites in all corners of the country that are recognised as Natural Parks, protected by laws that are officially considered to be ‘adequate’ in the ‘protection and maintenance of biodiversity’ and therefore open to interpretation and quite often blatant misuse and abuse.

There are four Nature Parks in the Algarve. The Reserva Natural do Sapal de Castro Marim e Vila Real de Santo António; Parque Natural da Ria Formosa; Reserva Natural da Ria Alvor, and Parque Natural do Sudoeste Alentejano e Costa Vicentina.

The Lagoa dos Salgados near Galé has been fighting an ongoing battle for decades to achieve similar protected status, but its existence is under constant threat from developers.

Outstanding in every way There are 24 Natural Parks in Portugal, but only one

National Park, and it is situated in the north-west corner of the country. Called Parque Nacional Penedes-Gerês, it shares a frontier with Spain and covers an area of nearly 700km².

The park was created in 1971 and straddles the provinces of Minho and Trás-Os-Montes. It is located about 100km from Porto and is easily accessible from Braga. Known simply as Gerês, this is an area of outstanding natural beauty.

Formed by four granite mountain ranges and glacial valleys, it is a wilderness that is home to around 235 vertebrate species, some unique to this corner of Europe. 200 of these species are endangered and thus protected, and include Iberian Wolves, Golden Eagles, and Iberian Lynx. Brown Bears disappeared from the region in the 17th century, as did the Portuguese Ibex Mountain goat, only to be supplanted by the neighbouring Spanish Ibex, which is quite common today. Smaller animals of importance include the Iberian Shrew, the Snub-Nosed Viper, the Gold-Striped Salamander, the European Wildcat and three species of endangered Horseshoe Bats.

The region has been occupied by humans for 7,000 years

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beginning with the Celts, the Germanic ‘Buri’ tribes in the 8th century (from whom we get the name Terras de Bouro), and then the Romans. Beginning in the 12th century, the valleys were cultivated to grow maize, grain, and potatoes.

The buildings that are used to protect the corn and grain from vermin are called Espigueiros. Made from granite, the structure is a series of interlocked pillars standing on top of tables supported by more pillars. They resemble small chapels with wooden doors and wall panels that provide air circulation.

They often have a stone cross atop the entrance, enhancing the religious importance of saving the harvest.

In the 1930s, during the early days of Salazar’s Estado Novo, forestation of any patch of unused land became a priority, with a vision of the country being self-sufficient in timber to build roof trusses for houses, make cheap paper pulp, and even matchsticks.

Mix and match In a twist of those autocratic times, it may come as a bizarre

surprise to learn that up until the 1970s, it was mandatory to have a licence for a cigarette lighter in order to protect the match industry, and thereby the forestation project, thus justifying the huge swathes of eucalyptus trees that now cloak all parts of the country.

However, Gerês managed to avoid total violation by the rogue import, and is instead blessed with native species of oak, laurel, maple, and holly, along with the all the species of brush and shrubland that carpet the forest floors – something that doesn’t happen with eucalyptus.

In a large part of the region, there are communities who live by the ancient rhythms of the seasons. One such mountain community from the region of Castro Laboreiro divides its year by living above 1,000m from late spring to Christmas time, a time known as Branda, meaning gentle, while the rest of the year, Inverneira, is spent in the river valleys.

It is in these villages that you can still witness elderly women dressed in black herding their cattle through the stone streets.

The breed of cattle is called a Barrosã and this fabulous-looking

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At Parque National Penedes-Gerês, the wild Iberian Lynx; the ancient barns at Espigueiros do Lindoso granary raised to protect the grain from rodents; the bridge and waterfall

docile animal can grow horns with a span of up to a metre.

The breed has a protected geographical status of DOC. The combination of genetics and feeding habits based on foraging and grain from this pure environment give the meat from the animals a uniqueness, and hence international merit.

Wild horses called Garrano are common too. These small animals that stand barely over 1.6 metres tall, are one of the oldest breeds in existence and are the ancestors of Lusitanian and the Andalusian breeds. They roam freely throughout the hills, so caution is advised when driving in the area, but some have been domesticated and are valued as capable and dedicated workers.

The dilemma that faces many parts of the natural world, and particularly within national parks themselves, is how to balance the need for tourism with its economic benefits and the number of tourists being drawn there to enjoy what nature has to offer.

So much to see If it’s the great outdoors for you, then this is the place. There is so much to do and see. There seems to be a waterfall around every turn and in some cases the fast rivers are navigable by kayak. There are numerous hiking trails that loop around the mountains, including the GR50 PenedaGerês long-distance walk that covers the entire mountain range and stretches for 190kms. There are literally hundreds of small hamlets and villages dotted around the hills, too numerous to name here. The park’s caretakers have attempted to concentrate the arrival point into the park by providing six small camping grounds from which visitors can fan out and explore. There are also some good small hotels, mostly around the reservoir of Vilarinho das Furnas. The most visited points of interest are within easy distance of the reservoir, including the submerged original village of Vilarinho das Furnas, which becomes exposed during dry summers.

There are a couple of shrines worth visiting. Senhora da Peneda and São Bento da Porta Aberta are close to the main access roads. And in the village of Soajo you can see the granite granaries, all 24 of them making an impressive statement upon the landscape.

If time is a constraint and you would simply like a taste of the National Park, then there are organised day tours available from Porto and Braga. If, however, you have more time, then an easy option is to fly to Porto and grab some cheap car hire out of season for a few days. Whatever you choose, you will be delighted with the Peneda-Gerês National Park. In Portugal, it is as far away as you can get from the Algarve in many many ways.

CÔRTE-REAL

THE BEST GALLERY Corte Real Gallery is the place that fuels creativity, ignites minds & provides inspiration.

The very best place in the Algarve to find contemporary & decorative art.

Fine ceramics and so much more.

Call us: 961 528 679 912 737 762 Follow signs from Paderne or Boliqueime Gallery Open Thurs. Fri. Sat. Sun. 11.30am - 4.30pm Email us: algarvegallery@gmail.com www.corterealarte.com

GETTING

KOZII VENTURING INTO A CLOTHING STORE , IT’S W H AT ’ S O N T H E R A I L S T H AT A R O U S E S I N T E R E S T. B U T KOZ I I I S A B O U T M U C H MORE THAN HANGER APPEAL

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Kozii has four shops in the Algarve, two in Tavira, including the flagship store, and one each in Praia Verde and Lagos; there is also an online offering. And every piece, every fabric, every colour is exclusive.

Black is black. But red and yellow are best sellers.

New for this summer is an incredible technique that mixes hand block print with wax resist dyes, also known as batik. The result is stunning, and the collection, unsurprisingly, is selling out fast.

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HE DAUGHTER of much-travelled

couple, Cecilia Telo was born in Lisbon.

The family moved to Boston when she was just eight – her father was pursuing a doctorate at Harvard – and then to Brussels, where he worked for the European Union.

When her parents made their next move, to Mozambique, Cecilia went to New Orleans to study Anthropology, then transferred to San Francisco and later to Vancouver and the University of British Columbia.

“After I graduated – with a specialisation in Anthropology of Arts – I went to Boom, an electronic music festival in Portugal, and decided to travel the world making garments and accessories to sell at festivals.

“Ever since I can remember, I have been cutting, painting, stitching, changing garments, and designing.

I have always loved the ethnic and the exotic, so the mixing of crafts of different cultures comes as second nature to me.

“My first experience of making and selling was in India in 2000; the following year I went to Mexico and worked with leather, silver and gems, and after that to Brazil where I became familiar with seeds, and jewellery from the Pataxó Indians in the jungle. For eight years, I travelled – to Morocco, Thailand and Guatemala – partied, and learnt about crafts, materials, culture and more.

Back in Portugal, Cecilia and her husband Nuno Campos opened a restaurant on the Alentejan coast, in Vila Nova

The main Kozii shop in a little walking street in Tavira, is a delight. A melange of soft, relaxed pieces that work together to create a distinct and always successful look

de Milfontes. Four years on, they agreed it was not the life they had dreamed of, and decided to use the knowledge and experience gained on their travels, and the contacts they had made and maintained around the world, to create a brand that captured their values.

And that is what Kozii is all about. “The name makes perfect sense,” she says. “It suggests comfort and style and music. It encapsulates the underlying values of the brand, and is an expression of the life we have lived and love.

About the business “Our customers can be any age, any size, with any taste.

What our clients share is that they care for what they buy, they value and recognise the work behind our pieces; they like to travel and read, and even though they might be financially comfortable, they choose to stay low profile,” says Cecilia.

Designing all her prints, and in Jaipur, India, where the collection is made up, Cecilia creates each piece in her newest range, assisted by her master tailors. “They help me turn my ideas into reality, and I am so very grateful for their dedication, expertise and support. The success of our initiative is thanks in no small way to teamwork.”

Does sustainability, today’s most-asked question in fashion, as in other areas, play a role in the Kozii story? “It’s an extension of who we are. As an anthropologist at heart, I have always been sensitive to the impact our personal actions have around us, and try to act upon that awareness in everything I do. Kozii is not an exception.”

And moving forward – will there be more branches, more locations, more countries? Cecilia is adamant: “Less growth, less speed, better living, better care, improvement… that’s the focus. Maybe we’ll have a small shop in Lisbon, let’s see. We need time to enjoy life and to care for small details… speed goes against the rhythm we seek to achieve.” Her views are a lesson we could all learn from. And her collection is one that we will all love.

KOZII FL AGS H IP S HOP R u a D r . A u g u s t o d a S i l v a C a r v a l h o 2 C , 8 8 0 0 - 3 2 4 Ta v i r a T: 9 1 0 5 2 2 4 6 4 / E : i n f o @ k o z i i s h o p . c o m / W : k o z i i s h o p . c o m

The Finest Art Gallery in the Algarve

Pedro Guimarães

Colourful Dreams Exhibition at the

Conrad Algarve Hotel in Quinta do Lago from April to July

Acrylic on Aluminium

Dream Picture

200cm diameter

www.artcatto.com Avenida José da Costa Mealha nº43 r/c | +351 289 419 447 | info@artcatto.com

A different way THE BRAINCHILD OF EMMA CAMPUS, DESIGN ESCAPES IS A D I G I TA L D E S T I N AT I O N D E D I C AT E D T O A C U R I O U S A N D D E S I G N L E D V I S I O N F O R T R AV E L I N P O R T U G A L . H E R P L AT F O R M , C R E AT E D O N I N S TA G R A M I N 2 0 2 0 , R E C E N T LY L A U N C H E D O N L I N E

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E TALKED to Emma about transforming her passion for travel into a business, her favourite spaces to stay in Portugal, and the idea of moving more mindfully as we discover those new and hidden destinations.

What exactly is Design Escapes?

Design Escapes is an explorative online journal, a connector and a resource for the modern traveller that commits to the convergence of design-led travel and cultural experience in Portugal. Cultivating the trust of our like-minded community from first-hand experiences, we reveal the country’s places and people that contribute to the most beautiful small and independent homes and hotels in the country.

How was Design Escapes Portugal born?

I started Design Escapes just after I moved to Portugal in 2020 after having spent ten years living

and working in the art, design and fashion industries in London. When my husband and I first settled here after leaving the UK, our goal was to search for a greater sense of purpose and well-being. To do that, we felt we needed to dive deep into getting to know the heart of our new destination and its communities, through travel, food, art and culture.

Instagram was my way of researching, collecting, and sharing inspiration, and I started saving and making lists of all the places I wanted to discover.

I created a dedicated account to keep everything together, and it just so happened that at that moment, Design Escapes was born.

What was the main goal of the project?

My goal was simply to create a place to collect my finds; beautiful places that I wanted to visit that, to me, seemed to represent a different type of tourism in Portugal. What initially began as a ‘little black book’ on Instagram that I shared with friends and

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Emma Clayton knows what she wants, and that is to fall in love with a place, a location, an owner's passion and dedication to offering something that is truly outstanding

family, quite quickly gained an engaged following of likeminded travellers and Design Escapes quickly evolved from a personal moodboard into a creative and collaborative community, and what has become a viable business.

My goal now is to present Portugal through a highlycurated and design-oriented lens and to make conscious efforts in contributing to a better version of the future of travel here. It’s important to me that we strive to re-empower both the travellers who seek alternatives to traditional tourism and the people who host them, too, which is why the curation in what I do is so important.

How has Design Escapes developed?

Where initially Instagram was our only home, I decided we needed to develop the experience and create an online space tailored to those looking for a personal approach. The purpose of the website is to make it easier for people to navigate and discover the collection of homes, hotels, travel tips and recommendations and to enable them to really understand the stories behind them.

Is the business now how you expected it to be?

I never expected Design Escapes to grow and shift in the

way that it has, especially when the world has been relatively restricted in terms of travel in the past two years. It has been an incredibly rewarding journey to turn something that was so personal into something that others feel a connection with.

Other than a go-to hotel guide and inspirational resource, what else does the Design Escapes website offer?

As I was being asked a lot for recommendations, I felt the need to pull together a collection of destination guides where I could direct people to find everything in one place.

So far we have launched the Lisbon and Porto guides on the site as well as one for Comporta. Soon it will be the Algarve, where I live, and then Alentejo, a place where I have spent endless months exploring.

For a more detailed experience, I have also developed a ‘Trip Curation’ studio, where I pull together personalised itineraries for those looking to discover Portugal in line with our unique perspective. After taking time to understand your travel goals, I will create a bespoke guide, connecting you to local home and hotel owners, artists and artisans, producers and chefs, places a local friend might know about.

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I have always felt an intense attraction to curious places that are less about ‘five star’ (something I think is very outdated) and more about ‘feeling’. Anyone can build a ‘design hotel’ and fill it with luxurious objects and shiny things, but for me what is absolutely paramount, is the authenticity in how that manifests itself, the personality of a place and the character it evokes.

Visually, a Design Escape is a reflection of its location, whether through conceptual or vernacular architecture and how that responds and interacts with the surroundings.

Through construction or renovation techniques that make use of local materials or ideas that involve the local community, working with Portuguese makers, artisans and designers for example.

How have you discovered such wonderful places?

I have always been an intense researcher, probably bordering on compulsive! For any holiday we take, I make a spreadsheet (I’ll happily admit that I fulfil all the Virgo stereotypes!) and spend hours putting together itineraries,

top 5 choices

What are the criteria for incorporating new destinations into the curation?

Hotels Dá Licença - Estremoz Casa de São Lourenço - Serra da Estrela Quinta da Corte - Douro Santa Clara 1728 - Lisbon Vila Monte Farmhouse - Algarve

Hideaway Homes Casa da Volta - Grandola Villa Lage - Luz, Algarve Monte de Palmeira - Algarve Casa nas Dunas - Comporta Adega do Fogo - Azores

Guest Houses Casa Céu - Olhão Lemon Lodge - Algarve Casas Caiadas - Alentejo Baixa House - Lisbon Na Travessa Suites - Porto Book through design-escapes.com

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seeking out places off the beaten track. I find a lot of hidden gems through Instagram (I love @out__liers and @yoliandotis) and spend time investigating in order to find out where certain places are.

There have been moments where I’ve seen a certain place, have found out that it’s a private home, and DM’d the owner to convince them to let us stay! It’s definitely about putting yourself out there, and being inquisitive. Don’t be afraid to reach out to people whose taste you admire to ask them if they have tips for you.

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What is your new-found favourite place here?

Dá Licença in Estremoz is an achingly beautiful small hotel that transcends every idea of authentic, design-led living in Portugal.

Having uprooted their lives in Paris for greener pastures, its creators, Vitor Borges and his partner Franck Laigneau, came to the Alentejo to transform what was once an old working olive farm into a monastic retreat. A collection of vernacular sail-white lodgings and just eight suites act as a study into the use of local materials. Rooms are filled with 20th-century arts and crafts pieces from Franck’s extensive collection accrued during his days as one of Paris’ most well-respected gallerists.

I fell in love after a morning spent at the local flea market before a dip in the James Turrel-esque swimming pool and an afternoon cosied up by the fire, leafing through the shelves of the library, an archive of travel books, art and design journals, before dinner in the dining room prepared by Victor himself.

What makes Design Escapes different from other travel guides?

Design Escapes, I would follow their advice and often be left disappointed, that those places weren’t necessarily a reflection of what the site portrayed. Personally visiting, spending time with the owners or getting to know them is so important to truly understand a place and present it in a way that is honest.

What has been your latest discovery?

Last year I discovered Casa da Volta in Grândola, a quiet triumph of a house located somewhere between the wild beaches of Comporta and the cork forests of the Serra da Grândola.

Encased by a walled courtyard that nods to the ancient Portuguese methodology of fortification, the house embraces a modern minimalism with a distinctly antiquated feel.

I connected with the owner, through a friend and he agreed to explore renting the house through Design Escapes. It was almost too good to share but he is the kindest and most generous man I have ever had the pleasure to meet, it was a dream to help him realise the project’s full potential.

Personally getting to know owners is so important to truly understand a place and present it in a way that is honest and relatable

I think it is the personal touch.

Personally visiting, spending time with the owners, or getting to know them is so important to truly understand a place and present it in a way that is honest and relatable.

I want people to discover Portugal by staying at hotels and hideaways created by real and independent people, eating at restaurants where young chefs have respect for sustainability and heritage rather than Michelin stars.

I like to think Design Escapes is representing the country as one at the forefront of exploring a fusion between immaculate, thoughtful design and a sustainable, more conscious approach to travel.

How do you balance building a business and retaining trust and authenticity?

It is important to me to never grow Design Escapes to the point where we value the former over the latter. There are other ‘design-led’ travel sites where it’s obvious that the owners have never personally experienced the places they have included in their content and collections. When I lived in London, before

What is next for Design Escapes and for you?

My husband David and I have finally signed the deeds on a ruined farm in the east Algarvean barrocal that we will transform into our own home with a small hideaway for selected guests who share our values.

The vision is for a physical realisation of Design Escapes, which I am excited to explore. I am hoping that everything I have learnt over the past two years will be useful in making essential decisions, whether that be around the design or the experience we hope to project.

It is also my intention to grow our collection, slowly expanding our knowledge and destination expertise further. We are yet to visit the north of Portugal, the Azores and Madeira; there is still so much to learn and discover and I can’t wait to see what’s around the next corner.

DESIGN-ESCAPES.COM Emma on Instagram @ d e s i g n e s c a p e s p o r t g u a l

+351 289 358 007 | +351 912 571 912 studioshop@quintastyle.com instagram.com/quintastyle Estrada de Vale de Éguas 30, 8135-033, Almancil

chapter

08

“Wonderful food matched by wonderful service!“ Source: Trip Advisor

Casa

Amor I N T H E P A S T M O N T H , W O R K AT C A S A AM O R I N O LHÃO HA S B E E N GAI N I N G SPEED AND IS NOW CRUISING ALONG C O M F O R TA B LY. U N F O R T U N AT E LY, T H O U G H , O N A R E N O VAT I O N O F T H I S C O M P L E X I T Y, T H E R E A R E S O M E T I M E S U N P L E A S A N T S U R P R I S E S AWA I T I N G . B U T TH E N AGAI N , TH E R E AR E SO M E PR E T T Y GOOD ONES TOO. . .

Wo rd s: E L A I N E J O Y C E P h ot og ra phy: S E N A A R C H I T E C T

O

N MONDAY 28 February, the team made

Amara 5.0

www.amararestaurant.pt Reservas: T +351 289 357 579 @amarafairways Four Seasons Fairways | Avenida André Jordan 37 Quinta do Lago

the first attack into the walls. The house is no longer recognisable – non-load-bearing or fragile walls have been destroyed, the entire upper part above the garage has disappeared; there is no longer a roof and therefore no ceiling on the first floor – at night, the old bedrooms of Pensão Helena have a view of the stars!

“I sometimes have a hard time finding myself,” jokes Jack, “all the landmarks of the building have disappeared!”

And soon the parapet that goes all around the building will disappear, too. “It is essential when a building has been abandoned for so long that the structure is stablilised and strengthened so that it lives on for the next hundred years,” explains Tatiana Bento, the architect.

The teams of Josué Medeiros, the builder, will soon install a reinforcement belt made on site, like a gigantic braid of iron bars. It will trap the concrete and tie it to the old load-bearing walls, and create the base for the future roof terrace. It will then be time to rebuild the parapet and restore it to its 1870 look with traditional ‘platibandas’, the traditional friezes you

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VISION PLUS

Scary stuff, discovering what lies beneath the crumbling plaster and rotting floorboards, but there is also good news

see at the top of houses. For Casa Amor they will be white and cream, all softness and discretion.

Then came a bit of bad news, when the dry weather we were enjoying gave way to downpours. “Heavy rain is no friend of a construction site,” says Walter. “Josué installed a huge black tarp that protects the load-bearing walls; there was no way we could allow the rain to wash these walls and weaken them!”

And there was more. It was discovered when removing old plaster from the walls, that two arches had been weakened by the wear and tear of time. Guida Gomes, the engineer in charge of the structures, found a way to consolidate them while limiting the costs as they are located in what will be a storage area. Another €10,000, an unforeseen expense!

And then there is this atrocious war that Russia is waging in Ukraine; this tragedy, this horror, these crimes against humanity. As a consequence, in other countries, stocks of materials are emptying, factories are closing, prices are soaring. Jack and Walter realise that these problems are small compared to the distress of the Ukrainian population but are aware that they need to find solutions because they cannot invest more in the Casa Amor project than already allocated.

But always taking a positive approach, the duo believe they will find the right answers with the help of their team.

Then, after all the bad news, some beautiful discoveries gave them reason to smile and introduced a fresh sense of optimism. The marble covered staircase turned out to be stone – a beautiful blonde stone that once renovated will be a splendid partner to the white walls and the landing covered with the black and cream cement tiles that had also been rescued. Finally, there are the paving stones discovered under the sand, simple and strict; ultimately, they will be be installed on the future patio, a welcome suggestion by Tatiana.

Originally, the plan was to calçada the area, “but,” says Jack, “if we can save money and revive the excellent work of the stonemasons of the late 19th century, it is even better”.

So life goes on, and new life is formed in Rua Bombarda, Rua Pádua and Rua Keil, where Casa Amor has taken on the air of an ocean liner wrapped by the artist Christo, under the Saharan wind…

Next month, Jack and Walter plan to talk about pastry, and LSF (Light Steel Frame). There is a relationship between the two, they say…

DESIGN PLUS

vision

When

becomes reality

O L D M E E T S N E W I N A C R E AT I V E C O L L A B O R AT I O N T H AT I S AT T H E V E R Y H E A R T O F L O U L É ’ S A R T I S T I C S O U L . T H E D E S I G N L A B H A S B E C O M E T H E D E S T I N AT I O N F O R TA L E N T S W H O G O O N T O R E A L I S E T H E I R F U L L

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POTENTIAL AND SHARE THEIR DREAMS

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HAT THE Loulé Design Lab is housed in the beautifully

Opposite page: Chair by ForNature Design. This page, top left, clockwise: herb cushion

by Pure; Gonçalo Gama; light

by Blow Plastic; Marta Lourenço; chair by Gonçalo Gama

accommodation for up to 17 resident artists.

The Design Lab is effectively an incubator for artists, who apply for residency through an independent jury.

“As interest in the project has grown, it is becoming more and more difficult to get in,” says Henrique. “Residencies run from one month to a maximum of three years. It all depends on the project and how it grows, and the support it needs to become a viable business.”

The Design Lab, which works with private partners, offers everything from practical assistance to legal affairs, administration, social media, marketing and publicity skills.

“Even when the designers leave our facility, they are still part of the community and we make sure to hook them up with any relevant opportunities,” says Henrique.

“Conversely, for each a month a person is part of the community, they ‘pay’ back with ten hours in the creative The stunning headquarters bank, which can be used at Criativo or for the Loulé Built in the 18th century, and once known as the Palace of the Spaniards as it welcomed Spanish refugees during the Civil War, the privately-owned building on Rua community.

“This could include offering their skills to teach at da Nossa Sra de Fatima had fallen into disrepair. Bought by the Loulé Municipality workshops or in schools, or helping other designers, for and restored with the specific aim of housing the Criativo projects, it is now example with graphic design or photography. It could also testament to how tradition and innovation can work in harmony. be leaving something for the community – a piece of art, Classically tiled floors and arched ceilings frame a sun-splashed building that some equipment.” houses a boutique shop, gallery, exhibition spaces, design studios, offices and restored Palácio Gama Lobo speaks of the essence of this unique project, which has been created to actively support ideas and projects in the areas of design applied to local culture.

“The Design Lab falls under the umbrella of Loulé Criativo, a project of the Municipality of Loulé,” explains programme director Henrique Ralheta. “Loulé Criativo started off in 2015 in an old downtown convent, with the aim of protecting and promoting traditional artisans and techniques – there are six workshops in the old town – as well as creative tourism.”

Then came the idea to integrate more contemporary artists, thereby nurturing design innovation and building a unified local creative community. The entire project is now based in the Palácio Gama Lobo, which itself tells a story of renovation and renewal.

DESIGN PLUS

The handsome Palácio Gama Lobo houses workshops and studios and exhibition spaces. Inside, there are airy, modern rooms with the special equipment the resident artists need

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A wealth of talents At any one time, the Design Lab hosts around 20 artists with projects ranging from jewellery and clothing to furniture and architecture.

The day I visit, I meet ceramic artist Bernadette Martins, who has incorporated metal and ceramic jewellery into her portfolio; Gonçalo Gama, who weaves palms into furniture; Marta Lourenço, who makes natural handcrafted children’s clothing; Susan Sutherland, who knits and hand spins; and Sandra Neto who makes recycled architectural surfaces.

The theme running through all the Design Lab projects are the environment’s 3Rs – reduce, reuse and recycle – or, as Henrique describes it, sustainable activism.

“Our designers are totally committed to sustainability and the circular economy, working in reaction to globalisation and mass production,” says Henrique. “It’s about local small-scale production making sense for local consumption.”

Take Marta Lourenço, whose Pure range of children’s clothing (birth to seven years) is inspired by nature, made only from 100% cotton and natural linen and hand-dyed with plant extracts.

“When my children were born, I didn’t want them to wear synthetic fabrics, and I battled to find anything natural,” explains the former kindergarten teacher turned designer and herbalist.

So not only does she make children’s clothing, but she now also makes dream pillows to help encourage peaceful sleep. “They are packed with various herbs that last for up to a year – the more you touch them, the better they are.”

Gonçalo Gama has taken palm weaving to a new level with his Dobra project. “I was exploring new ways of crafting palm fronds, different from baskets or bags, so I created chairs and tables and now I am working on table and floor lamps,” he says. “As a young person, I am always thinking about the challenge of sustainability. It’s about taking the old and traditional and making it new and fresh.”

Sandra Neto’s project – Mess – is turning waste or discarded materials into practical surfaces, for furniture, interiors, walls or coasters. She’s just developed a space divider prototype using biologically-based resin and expired black beans.

“My aim is to create beautiful new materials by diminishing the ecological footprint of the discarded waste of the construction,

LOULÉ DESIGN LAB

architecture and decoration industries,” she says.

Then there’s Susan Sutherland, a caterer and former restaurant owner, whose dream of owning a sheep and alpaca farm kicked off with her moving to the countryside in Loulé, where she began knitting.

“I taught myself and started making hats, gloves and jerseys, which I sold at various markets,” says Susan. “When I applied for a residency at Design Lab, I mentioned that I had an old spinning wheel and was very interested in hand spinning.”

Lockdown in 2020 gave her the opportunity to teach herself spinning and she now uses local merino wool from the Alentejo mixed with recycled sari silk to make unique wools.

“Ovelha Negra Knits is a project about integrating the creative and sustainable craft and traditions of hand spinning and knitting into a contemporary world,” she says. “Inspired by local surroundings and nature, a journey from sheep to skein to stitch resulting in custommade unique clothing, accessories and homewares.”

Bernadette Martins has been making ceramics for 25 years and recently began working with porcelain because she wanted the “challenge of working on more delicate and intimate pieces”.

After studying with an expert in contemporary jewellery, she launched Fragil Jewellery, mixing recycled metals and plexiglass with porcelain to develop a collection that depicted the birds and plants of the Algarve.

There’s not a thing there I don’t covet. Which is why I am so encouraged by Henrique’s account of one of the Design Lab’s success stories.

Treat yourself “That would be a group of four previous residents who opened a store together outside Loulé Market,” Henrique says. “It’s called Colectivo 28 and it’s a true example of community spirit.”

The shop includes ceramics, inspiring small tools, jewellery made from recycled newsprint and fabrics dyed with natural plants – all locally designed, sourced and produced.

He also mentions an interesting recycling project they were involved with last year, called Infinity, where the Design Lab partnered with waste collectors Inframoura to create objects from end-of-life materials gathered by the Inframoura team around Vilamoura and Vila Sol. “Under the banner ‘rethink, recycle and refurbish’, we did a study of the needs of three social institutions chosen by the Loulé Municipality with the aim of creating practical objects that could make a difference to the lives of those who received them.”

For Loulé Criativo and the Design Lab, it’s all about making local crafts relevant for the local economy again – reinventing traditional arts to answer contemporary needs.

“And I think we’re getting there,” says Henrique. “We are very thankful to the municipality for having the long-term vision to encourage and support our local artists.”

P a l á ci o G a m a Lo b o . R u a d e N os s a S r a . d e Fáti m a , 8 1 0 0 - 5 5 7 Lo u l é

T: 2 8 9 4 0 0 8 7 9 / E : i n f o @ l o u l e d e s i g n l a b . p t / l o u l e d e s i g n l a b . p t / Open: Monday to Friday 1 0:0 0 –13:0 0 and 14:0 0 –17:0 0: Saturday 1 0:0 0 –15:0 0 pms

LOVE FOOD

LOVE LIFE

LOVE JULIAS

JULIA'S BEACH, PRAIA DO GARRAO, ALMANCIL. FOLLOW SIGNS FOR VALE DO LOBO AND THEN RIA PARK HOTEL. Info@julias-algarve.com

00 351 289 396 512

online reservations: julias-algarve.com

@juliasalgarve

ALGARVE P L U S

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THE PROCESS

It all starts with the harvest.

Unlike red and rosé wines, white wine grapes are fully crushed in a press to extract the skins and seeds, leaving only the juice. By contrast, red and rosé wines are lightly pressed because much of their disinct character comes from the tannins found in grape skins and seeds.

Fermentation – when alcohol is created – is probably the most critical step in wine production, and sometimes yeast is added to the grapes in the tanks to trigger this vital chemical reaction.

The next process is maturation, a stage dependent on what the winemaker is trying to achieve. While some lower-quality red wines are matured in stainless steel tanks, the better reds are often matured in oak barrels, which can add a host of complex flavours and textures to the final wine.

There’s even a difference in the maker’s choice of barrel: French oak can give the wine a subtle spice, while American oak introduces hints of vanilla.

Once the wine has matured, it’s ready to be clarified. In this process, any unwanted particles, which could make the wine look cloudy or off-colour, are removed.

Next comes the bottling process, usually automated but also done by hand.

GRAPE

expectations

T O K N O W D I F F E R E N T G R A P E S A N D U N D E R S TA N D T H E I R P E R S O N A L I T I E S A N D C A P A B I L I T I E S , A N D W H AT T O E X P E C T, H E L P S Y O U M A K E T H E B E S T B U Y I N G A N D TA S T I N G D E C I S I O N S . H E R E ’ S A S H O R T G U I D E T O A B U N C H O F P O R T U G A L’ S B E S T

Wo rd s:

LÍVIA MOKRI

THE GRAPES Alvarinho, one of the most admirable Portuguese white grapes, gained fame in the Vinho Verde region.

It is found mainly in cooler areas, close to the ocean, and this is where it gains its salty flavours. With its unique ability to absorb the sun and resist fungi, it gives rise to excellent ‘green’ wines with lively acidity and different aromatic notes of peach, lemon, passion fruit, lychee, orange peel, jasmine, orange blossom and lemon balm. Appetisers and light meals, salads, seafood and lean fish are always a good match.

Good example: Quinta de Santiago Alvarinho Reserve White 2019

WINE PLUS

THE FOUR SEASONS

Great wines are made with high-quality grapes, and the health and well-being of the vines. Each season plays its role and affects the year’s vintage.

In winter, the previous year’s growth is cut back to stimulate new shoots for the coming harvest; this is critical and determines the future of the vine. With spring comes the first signs of new growth; buds are very delicate, and a seasonal storm could destroy them. If the buds survive, they create shoots and flowers.

Grape clusters remain green until late summer

when the berries change colour from green to red.

In the autumn, sugar levels rise and acidity lowers in grapes until they are perfectly ripe. In this harvest time, rainstorms are unlucky because they make for rotten grapes and watery wines.

If all goes well, some producers leave a few bunches of grapes on the vine to raisinate (dry out) and press into a sweet, dessert wine. This is called ‘late harvest’.

After the harvest, the vine goes into dormancy to survive the winter again. And so the cycle continues.

l ALGARVE P L U S

Baga is responsible for the best red wines in Bairrada, where it occupies most of the region’s vineyards. With good maturation, Baga wines take on a deep colour, with well-defined wild berry fruit, black plum, solid tannins and biting acidity, with notes of coffee, dried herb, and tobacco. This grape does produce wines with high alcohol content and its high natural acidity make it challenging in the cellar.

The different pairings make this grape extremely appealing on the table. For example, the connection between spicier Asian cuisine with dry rosés, the robust reds with grilled or oven-baked meats, and the eternal winning combination: suckling pig and sparkling wine.

Good example: Marquês de Marialva Blanc de Noirs Brut Sparkling 2019

31

Arinto is a versatile white grape, present in most Portuguese wine-growing regions, but it reaches its zenith around Bucelas in the municipality of Loures. This grape gives rise to vibrant wines, with high acidity, a strong mineral profile, and good aging potential; it is enormously refreshing. Its wines usually have a citrus colour, and aromas of green apple, lime, lemon and intense tropical fruits with particular emphasis on passion fruit.

The years can introduce notes of dried fruit, hazelnut and beeswax. Arinto is often used in the production of blended wines and also sparkling wine.

These wines make excellent friends wih grilled fish, seafood, oysters with lemon or light salads. Those aged in the barrel are served with light meats or pasta; others that have been in the bottle for a few years, go well with soft cheeses.

Good example: Adega Mãe Arinto White 2018

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WINE PLUS

Touriga Nacional is the queen of red grapes in Portugal. It comes from the north, from Dão, where it produces wines of immense elegance. However, it quickly gained national representation in the Douro, where it was originally used in Port wines, and today is featured in singlevarietal red wines and blends as well.

As a late-maturing grape, it is one of the last to be harvested, but guarantees good levels of acidity and freshness.

It is capable of producing balanced wines, with good alcohol levels and excellent aging potential; its thick skin and rich colour help create the intense personality of the wines.

An abundance of aromas is a hallmark of the variety. There are intense floral and fruity notes, the aromas of violets, bergamots, wild berries, rockrose, and some notes of pine needles.

Good example: Maçanita Touriga Nacional Cima Corgo Red 2017

Castelão thrives throughout the country, but it is in the old vineyards of the Palmela region in Setúbal, where José Maria da Fonseca originally planted it and created the red wine, Periquita, which became the first bottled red wine in Portugal and the oldest Portuguese brand marketed – where you will find the perfect example of the virtues and peculiarities of the grape.

Castelão produces structured and fruity wines, with a particular focus on currants, plums in syrup, and wild fruits.

Wines from Castelão have prominent tannins with intense acidity, strong garnet tones, and an intense fruity aroma.

Good example: Periquita Reserve Red 2019

Negra Mole, born and raised in the Algarve, can, curiously, ripen into white or red grapes. Not to be confused with the Tinta Negra grapes used for Madeira wine, Negra Mole wines are rich in alcohol, and complex by nature with fruity aromas and wood-giving influences after ageing in barrels for months.

Lightly pressed, this grape variety produces white must, to create ‘Blanc de Noirs’: a super fresh, mineral and saline wine, excellent for the best sparkling bases or for gastronomic whites. Pressed more firmly, it creates wines with pale pink, almost salmon, colour, fruity and fresh aromas, and overwhelming elegance.

Perfect pairing with tasty grilled sardines or fresh salads.

Good example: Morgado do Quintão Clarete Red 2020

Encruzado The cultivation of the white Encruzado grape is practically exclusive to the Dão area, and probably the best white variety planted in the region.

It is used in the production of most white blended or singlevarietal wines.

Encruzado gives aromas of roses and violets, light citrus notes, a little resin, and intense mineral notes with wellbalanced sugar and acidity to the wines. These are serious, structured, unctuous wines with an extraordinary aging capacity.

Good example: Quinta de Cabriz Encruzado Reserve White 2019

Fernão Pires is one of the most planted white grape varieties in Portugal.

Also called Maria Gomes, it give the aroma of Muscat and some notes of rose and lychee, producing fresh and highly aromatic wines with low acidity, with citrus notes such as orange, lime, or lemon, as well as floral aromas, such as mimosa and rose, as well as herbs like basil.

Its extreme versatility allows it to be used in monovarietal, sparkling and even late-harvested to obtain sweet wines. The wines from the Fernão Pires variety are extremely fragrant, exuberant in aromas, seduction and charm.

As a rule, Fernão Pires wines should be drunk young.

Good example: Tyto Alba 1836 Grand Reserve White 2017 It takes years of knowledge and expertise to gather, press, ferment and mature the grape and create the best possible wine. Let’s raise our glasses and toast the winemakers of Portugal.

WE LOOK FORWARD TO CELEBRATING A NEW YOU.

Jim

H A I R A RT I S TS

Pho ne or ema i l for t h at s pec i a l a pp oi n tm e n t.

T: +351 914 452 315 E : j i m h a i r a rt i st s @ gm a i l.c om E stra da Va l e do Lob o 9 47 A | 81 3 5 - 016 A l m a n c i l

Blueberry, orange and honey plait M A S T E R 3 0 B R E A D S , I N C L U D I N G C L A S S I C S A N D W I C H L O AV E S , B L O O M E R S , R O L L S , R Y E , C I A B AT TA , F O C A C C I A , F R U I T B R E A D S A N D S W E E T B U N S , P I T TA A N D B A G E L S , S O U R D O U G H A N D P I Z Z A D O U G H .

JACK S TU RG E S S’ S B A K E WITH JAC K MAK E S IT E A SY

MAKES 1 LARGE PLAIT

T O TA L T I M E : 3 – 5 H O U R S

I NGR E D I E N T S   

RECIPE

of the month...

    

 

115g warm milk, 25–30°C/77–86°F 1 medium egg, plus 1 egg, beaten, for glazing 14g fresh yeast, crumbled, or 7g fast-acting dried 250g strong white bread flour, plus extra for dusting 4g salt 35g honey, plus extra for glazing grated zest of 1 orange 35g unsalted butter, room-temperature, broken into pieces 100g blueberries pearl sugar nibs, for sprinkling

M ET HOD 1

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the milk, egg and yeast until the yeast has softened.

2 Add the flour, salt, honey and orange zest, and mix until it comes together into a rough dough.

Dimple the butter into the dough with your fingertips.

3 Turn dough out onto a work surface and knead without any additional flour for 10 minutes.

4 Cover the dough with a clean cloth and rest on the work surface for 5–10 minutes.

5 Lightly flour the work surface, roll out the dough to a 15cm circle. Evenly sprinkle over 75g of the blueberries, right to the edge, then press down with your palms to stick them to the dough.

6 Roll up your dough into a loose sausage. Turn it 90 degrees, press it flat with your fingertips and roll up again into a short sausage.

7 Shape the dough into a ball and place it back in the bowl. Sprinkle with a little flour, cover with an upturned bowl and rest for 1–2 hours.

8 Lightly flour the work surface and turn the dough out upside-down, sticky side up. Use your fingertips to flatten the dough gently into a circle.

Cut it into four equal-sized wedge. They should weigh about 240g each. Starting at the pointy end, roll up each wedge into a loose sausage.

Cover with a cloth and rest dough for 10 minutes.

9 Line a large baking tray with baking parchment.

Flatten a dough sausage and roll up again, then roll it on the work surface until it is about 40–45cm long. Repeat with other three pieces, dusting any sticky patches with flour as you go.

10 Line up the four strands vertically and pinch the tops together. Working with the strands in two pairs and starting with the right pair, fold the right strand over the left. Repeat with the left pair, folding the right strand over the left. Next, take the two strands in the centre of the two pairs and fold the left over the right. Repeat to the end: right over left, right over left, then left over right in the middle.

11 Press the ends together and tuck them underneath the plait. Place the plait on your lined tray. Cover your plait loosely with cling film dusted with flour and rest for one hour.

12 Towards the end of resting, preheat your oven to 180°C fan/400°F/Gas Mark 6 with a shelf in the middle and a deep tray on the oven floor. Half-fill a kettle.

13 Boil the kettle. Stud your puffy plait with the remaining blueberries. Place your baking tray gently on the oven shelf and pour the hot water into the tray below. Bake plait for 30–35 minutes.

14 Slide a knife underneath it and lift. If it’s golden, it’s done, but if it’s a little pale, bake for another 3–5 minutes at a time until it’s ready.

15 When it’s cool enough to handle, transfer your plait carefully to a wire rack. Place the lining paper underneath to catch any honey drips. Drizzle the top of your plait generously with honey while still hot, then use a pastry brush to brush it all over to give it a lovely sheen, and sprinkle with pearl sugar nibs.

.

Bake with Jack is published by Ebury Press.

Photography by Andrew Hayes-Watkins

AALLGGAARRVVEE PPLLUUSS l l 33 35

JACK’S WAY Turn it into French toast and top it with thick natural yoghurt, torn figs, a drizzle of honey and some crunchy toasted pecans. Mmmmm

MEMORICE comporta

www.

A L G A RV E P H O T O G R A P H Y . c o m

R E A L

E S TAT E ,

W E D D I N G ,

FA M I LY,

Clutching memories at Comporta POUCHES | TOTEBAGS | SCENTED CANDLES | HOME SPRAYS

www.memorice.pt @memoricecomporta

MENTE

P S Y C H O T H E R A P Y

Psychotherapy, Counselling & Coaching

LETʼS TALK...

Going to therapy when you feel overwhelmed should be as normal as going to the doctor for a persistent cough or unexplained pain... gen@mentepsychotherapy.com mentepsychotherapy.com The Green Building | Room 9 | Loulé Zoom or in person

G a r r e t t

Wa l s h

+351 919 259 769

P O R T R A I T

PROMOTION PLUS

ON THE BEACH

We listen to client feedback, and also take design and menu inspiration from our own travels.

Every year we re-invest in the business to improve its look and facilities

M A R I A’ S P r a i a d o G a r r ã o P o e n te

Bookings: 289 358 675 / 969 731 581

E: team@mariasbeachalgarve.com / W: mariasbeachalgarve.com

l

for a beach walk coffee, a sunset drink, and the opportunity for wonderful meals, throughout the day and night. And Maria’s beach crew is there to deliver drinks and tasty snacks direct to your sun lounger.

“We re-invest year on year to improve not only the look of the restaurant but the system that supports it,” Harriet says. “We listen to client feedback and also take design and menu inspiration from our own travels. Over the years, this has included remodelling and extending the kitchen, and investing in creating a roof terrace with a fantastic long bar.”

And it doesn’t stop there. At Christmas, they opened a crêpe station on the deck, which was so popular it has become a permanent fixture. This year, its tenth anniversary year, a new bathroom block with a shower has been added for the use of clients enjoying the beach.

Maria’s has always been loved for its ‘Sunday Fundays’, and the postpandemic demand has encouraged the team to introduce more of the same on other days, with live bands and a DJ. What about the food? “Fresh fish is always a favourite,” says Harriet “Miguel’s family owns the top fish supplier in the Algarve, so you are guaranteed to get the best.

And our clients can’t get enough of our costa prawns, and our famous curry. We are known for our desserts, too, a breakaway from the traditional Portuguese puds. People can’t wait to return for their Nutella Cheesecake, Sticky Toffee Pudding and Rocky Road.”

ALGARVE P L U S

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HEN MIGUEL Campina and William Scott, and their respective wives, Harriet and Angela, took over the long-established beach restaurant a decade ago, they felt it was important to continue with the name. “So many families, like us, remember the original restaurant, with huge affection,” says Harriet. “Today, clients bring their children, and their children bring their children – new generations are introduced as each year goes by. We are lucky to share countless celebrations of birthdays, anniversaries and engagements – new memories are made every day.”

In the years before 2012, the beach was not seen as a night destination except in high season, and many restaurants were closed for months over the winter. “Our vision,” Harriet explains, “was to create a beautiful lunch spot that could transition into a sophisticated restaurant at night. We invested in the best furnishings, whitewashed the whole wooden structure, added mirrors to reflect the sea, and installed a glass window system to give 180° views. With good lighting and indoor flame heaters, the restaurant has a cosy feeling during the winter, too.”

While the Algarve has matured from a golfer’s getaway and family summer resort to become one of the most in-demand destinations in Europe, Maria’s has moved to accommodate a new breed of traveller whose taste could be anything from laid back, to wildly adventurous. It’s the place of choice

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THERE CAN BE VERY FEW WHO H AV E N O T V I S I T E D M A R I A’ S R E S TA U R A N T O N P R A I A D O GA R R ÃO. TH I RT Y Y E A RS AG O I T WA S C H A R M I N G S H A C K O N T H E B E A C H ; T O D AY, AFTER TEN YEARS UNDER ITS C U R R E N T O W N E R S H I P, I T I S A C E L E B R AT I O N O F S T Y L E , AT M O S P H E R E , F U N , A N D G R E AT F O O D

PROMOTION PLUS

CHOOSING THE PUREST OF C O L O U R S , E N E R G E T I C A L LY APPLIED, FRENCH ARTIST SÉBASTIEN ARCOUET IS A P R E S E N T D AY ‘ F A U V I S T ’ .

FOLLOWING IN THE TRADITION OF HENRI M AT I S S E , C O N S I D E R E D T O BE THE FOUNDER OF THE STYLE, SÉBASTIEN WORKS WITH BRISK STROKES USING BRIGHT PRIMARY COLOURS

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The Brilliance of

blue

Favourite period in history?

It is surely the one when people lived more simply, hunting, fishing, gathering and craftsmanship.

Best movie of all time?

Point Break because of surfing... and Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind.

Music – your first choice Ben Harper, for sure, and I love movie spundtracks by composers like Hans Zimmer.

It helps me to paint and puts me in a good mood.

Hobbies, when not working Can I say that my favourite hobby is painting? Being an artist is not a profession, it’s a life choice. Beyond painting, it is surfing.

The subject you’d most like to paint Nature, light and shadows, days and nights. Inspiration is all around us.

GALERIA CÔRTE- REAL is signposted from Boliqueime, Ferreiras and Paderne O P E N : T H U R S D AY t o S U N D AY, 1 1 : 3 0 – 1 6 : 3 0

/

912 528 679 / corterealarte.com

ALGARVE P L U S

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IKE MATISSE and other post-Impressionist artists, Sébastien Arcouet uses colour to create three-dimensional images. Today, we are familiar with the technique, but when this type of painting was first exhibited in France at the beginning of the 20th century, it shocked the viewing public.

When critics appraised the paintings, they condemned the aggression expressed in the style. They referred to the artists as ‘fauves’, which is to say ‘wild beasts’, who overstated themselves in colour.

Sébastien has a particular fascination for the colour blue. His use of turquoise blue and ultramarine provides depth and transparency that distinguish his paintings.

Reminiscent of the Algarve sky with its 3,000 hours of sunshine a year, blue often wins the polls as a favourite.

Popularised by artists during the Renaissance period, lapis lazuli was a pigment used to paint important figures such as the Virgin Mary. During the 14th and 15th centuries, the semi-precious stone was brought from mines in Afghanistan to Italy. The lapis lazuli was then ground into a powder, making it the most expensive pigment in use at the time. The colour it generated, ‘ultramarinus’, literally meant beyond the sea. Like lapis lazuli, blue eyes were rarely seen, and in Italy considered to be almost unique. Even today only eight per cent of the world’s population has them.

The opposite of ‘seeing red’, blue represents calm feelings and a lack of strong emotions. It is said to regulate the heartbeat and encourages a relaxed state of mind. A good reason for interior designers to favour it for home decoration schemes. This year, the designated colour for fashion-conscious aficionados is periwinkle blue, combining turquoise blue with a hint of red.

Stating that the sky and the power of nature are his sources for inspiration, Sébastien expresses himself through his paintings. He lives in Marseille in the southwest of France and exhibits his work across the country and abroad. In the summer of 2021, his paintings were exhibited at the Bon Marché, the oldest department store in Paris. Interpreting trends and seeking out creativity, he exemplifies the ‘art de vivre’.

He states that: “Drawing and painting enable me to say things that cannot be articulated with words. I am very happy to be able to share my work here in Portugal at Galeria Côrte-Real.”

An exhibition of Sébastien’s latest paintings is on display at the gallery on the outskirts of the village of Paderne.

Capital Clothing D R S S I N G U P Y O U R W A R D R O B E ? W E H AV E P L E N T Y O F O P T I O N S H E R E O N THE ALGARVE , FROM PRICE- RIGHT CHAIN STORES IN MAR SHOPPING TO T H E E L E G A N T S T O R E S I N F A R O A N D Q U I N TA S H O P P I N G . B U T A D AY O U T I N L I S B O N I S A D I F F E R E N T J O U R N E Y O F D I S C O V E R Y, N O T J U S T F O R T H E W E A LT H O F L A B E L S – I N T E R N AT I O N A L A N D P O R T U G U E S E – O N O F F E R , B U T F O R T H E S T U N N I N G B U I L D I N G S T H AT H O U S E T H E M

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SHOP PLUS

Opposite page: Lachoix offers a glorious selection of shoes. This page left: shoulder bag

by Gucci; below: panther head ring, a classic from Cartier, in Avenida da Liberdade, Lisbon's answer to the Paris’s Champs-Élysées

Unique styles If designer brands are not your thing, or you want fashion pieces with looks and personality, stop at Pinko (36D) for bold, sexy Italian style. T-shirts with a message or girly dresses, it’s impossible not to fall in love with something. Then, head to the new Casa Loewe (207) where you’ll find flowing dresses, bomber jackets, calfskin AirPod cases – all pleasure objects that combine design simplicity and quality excellence. The store itself is absolutely beautiful so there’s a chance you’ll forget the concept of time while you’re in there.

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HINK LISBON, think shopping, and think Avenida da Liberdade first, our very own Champs-Elysées where we can (and do) loose our heads in splendid international stores like Gucci (at 180), Cartier (240) or Prada (206–210) – the latter deserves a visit even if just to check the beautiful Art Deco building. But if you don’t have all the time in the world, you can find the best of international fashion design under two roofs: Loja das Meias (254) and Stivali (38B).

Loja das Meias has a long history that dates back to 1905 – they started out selling stockings and corsets, hence the name. With several stores – Lisbon, Cascais and, since March, Porto – it represents the likes of Givenchy, Salvatore Ferragamo, Stella McCartney, Marc Jacobs, Celine, Dior, Kenzo and Nina Ricci. The choice here dazzles and the service, as you would expect, is impeccable.

Stivali is a cool contemporary space where all the pieces have the chance to shine on a very minimal clean background. Here you can try and buy the likes of Alexander McQueen, Bottega Veneta, Chloé, Saint Laurent or Valentino.

SHOP PLUS

Left: At Stivali, the atmosphere is elegant and relaxed, the range of designer labels exceptional.

Below: The teeny tiny Luvaria Ulisses, the only place to buy gloves

After Italian and Spanish design, go French... IRO (224) is an of-the-minute, very Parisienne, with a mix of perfect basics – black trousers, white shirts – and trendy floral skirts and leather jackets. Understated and elegant, it’s impossible not to feel inspired in this minimal and uber-cool environment.

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Walk this way A good shopping day is not complete without a pair of perfect shoes. Although all luxury brands – including the ones mentioned – have their own selection of shoes and accessories, there’s something magical about entering a dedicated shoe shop. Call it the Cinderella syndrome, but who doesn’t feel like a princess when the beautiful boxes pile up on the floor beside you?

Still in Avenida da Liberdade, you have Luís Onofre (247).

We Portuguese have a long tradition of shoemaking and Onofre shows how to add immaculate design to ancient knowhow. His motto is “A brand for strong women with strong values”, and every season, he presents a collection of stunning styles, from boots to sandals, to his legendary high heels.

Now it is time to move on to a more hip part of town: Príncipe Real. A bit like London’s Soho, it’s a district where you can find small shops and restaurants with a lot of character. That’s the case with Lachoix (Pátio do Tijolo). The name is French but all the shoes – mainly loafers and slippers – are made in Portugal.

Who-said-flats-are-not-interesting could be their surname, and the difficult part of the process – trust me! – is to choose just one pair. The all-white store also works as a gallery or pop up store for other brands.

Portuguese only Still in Príncipe Real, the beautiful Arabic Ribeiro da Cunha Palace has been Embaixada for some years now. A multibrand store that is home to some interesting upcoming Portuguese brands. ISTO (sustainable cotton basics) and Latitid (beachwear) are just two good examples. But, more than a store, Embaixada is a meeting point where you can also go for a meal or to sit and have a gin before going back to shopping.

Traditional complements Before you end your shopping day, walk down to Baixa to get beautiful accessories that are still made as they were decades ago. Start at Chapelaria Azevedo (Praça D. Pedro IV, 69, 72, 73). If you are a hat lover, you’re in for a treat. This is the oldest hat shop in Portugal, opened in 1886 and run by the same family to this day. Here you can buy hats of different styles and shapes, in many colours and with special details, or have one made to measure to your specific taste. But if you prefer gloves, Luvaria Ulisses (Rua do Carmo 87A), the last glove-only shop in the country, is your stop. This tiny shop has the same imperial decoration and neoclassic façade that it had the day it opened in 1925. In fact, nothing has changed. All the gloves are made by hand in high quality leather – it is impossible not to keep the lovely packaging boxes – and, once you try a pair, you’ll never want any other leather gloves. And that’s a good thing, since there are so many colours to choose from.

Your last call before heading off for dinner should be Retrosaria Bijou (Rua da Conceição 91), a historic haberdashery. Admire the beautiful and delicate Art Deco entrance, and once inside, get lost in a world of satin ribbons, boxes of buttons of every shape and size, zips and other little trimmings that make all the difference in an outfit. This is the perfect place to find that special something to update favourite items or to add the finishing touches to something you are making. Something to sew or not, go anyway, it’s so beautiful!

Sarah Nicollier Interiors is responsible for exquisite interiors, renovations and refurbishments that transform empty spaces into coveted and much-loved homes.

With an acute focus on customer service, each project is tailored to meet the specific tastes of the client, with all their needs being looked after from start to finish – and beyond.

For Sarah’s team, a personal service and consultative approach is a crucial part of the design process. She works closely with each client, ensuring every detail is carefully crafted and considered, no matter how large or small.

We speak English, French, German and Swedish.

For enquiries please contact sarah@sarahnicollier.com or +351 962 109 698 +351 962 109 698 . SARAH@SARAHNICOLLIER.COM S A R A H N I C O L L I E RU K . C O M . @ S A R A H N I C O L L I E R U K

GUIDEBOOKS AND L E A F L E T S M AY C O M E I N H A N D Y, B U T T H E R E ’ S NOTHING LIKE BEING ESCORTED BY A LOCAL H E R O I F YO U WA N T TO SEE THE SIGHTS, LEARN T H E I N S I D E S T O R Y, A N D GET THE BEST FROM THE TOU RING EXPERIENCE

GO

with the

EXPERTS

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SKYDIVE SEVEN Launched: 1980, part of the Sevenair Group What’s on offer: Open all year round at Portimão Airport. Everything you need to experience the thrill of skydiving is here, even for beginners; in fact, the Tandem Skydiving jump is the most popular skydive, ideal for those who have never jumped before. The team of experienced instructors – fluent in Portuguese, English, Spanish, French, and German – will help you learn how to fly and explore all skydive emotions, from the most thrilling to the scariest.

Max numbers: 80 per day, ten per flight.

Worth knowing: The two-hour experience is suitable for all ages, from six to 116! It is a Skydive Seven priority to deliver the best experience possible, and real value for money.

A booking deposit is required, but there is a full refund on cancellations, up to 48 hours before the start of the activity.

Cost: 15,000ft jump, from €188.90 T: 937 137 137 E: info@skydiveseven.pt W: skydiveseven.pt

OUTINGS PLUS

ALGARVE RIDERS

Launched: 2018 Travel mode: Air conditioned minivan What’s on offer: Explore the West Coast, visiting Aljezur, Monte Clérigo Beach and village, and Amoreira Beach, where the river joins the sea. Then it is on to Arrifana to see the stunning black cliffs, and Carrapateira.

Discover nature as it should be, smell new smells and be wowed by some breathtaking views. During the afternoon, you’ll visit Sagres to see the acclaimed fortress, the church, the compass rose and the fantastic cliffs that are over 100 metres high. The day ends at Cape St Vincent.

Max numbers: Eight people.

Worth knowing: The trip is eight hours, and led by boss António. Lunch is not included.

Suitable for all ages.

Cost: Children (6–11 years), €45; Adults (12+), €65; private groups (max six people), €299.

T: 964 331 497 E: info@southexplorers.pt W: southexplorers.pt

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Launched: 2015 Travel mode: Quad, buggy and jeep What’s on offer: Quad and buggy tours that take you off the beaten track over a range of terrains, from asphalt and gravel roads to mountain tracks, and rocky paths. The professional guides will make sure you have all the safety instructions you need. Tour lengths are from 1.5 to six hours, and the latter includes lunch at Quinta do Freixo.

Private Jeep Safari Tours visit the hidden treasures of the Algarve; picturesque villages, orange groves, and cork oak forests, and include a visit to a castle. The panoramic views are amazing and you will have an opportunity to taste a typical Algarve liqueur and take a dip in a local river. Lunch is at Quinta do Freixo in the heart of the Algarve, where you’ll get to enjoy a typical Portuguese meal, and the Quinta’s homemade delicacies such as fig cheese, jams and chutneys.

Max numbers: Quad tours: 40 people; buggy tours: 20 people; jeep safari tours: 15 people.

For special occasions, 75 people can be hosted on the same tour.

Worth knowing: Drivers must be over 18 years old and have a valid driver’s licence, but passengers can be from five or seven years old (depending on the chosen vehicle).

Cost: Prices vary according to the vehicle, programme and number of people. Check the website for details.

T: 968 552 221 E: info@algarveriders.com| W: algarveriders.com

ALGARVE P L U S

Even beginners can fly high with the professionals at Skydive Seven. Below: There are some amazing views to take in on a South Explorers minivan tour.

Opposite page: Algarve Riders offers west coast quad, buggy and jeep tours

OUTINGS PLUS

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Right: Alsafari, with eight passengers per jeep. Below left: The main square in Vila Real de Santo António, which you'll visit with Liviagem Algarve. Below right: Johnny's Tours takes you to Carvoeiro

LIVIAGEM ALGARVE

ALSAFARI TOURS

JOHNNY’S TOURS

Launched: 2018 Travel mode: Air conditioned five-seater car What’s on offer: This eight-hour tour of the eastern Algarve, starts at 09:00, first visiting Cacela Velha, a tiny gem nestled on top of the only cliff of the East Algarve, facing the ever-changing Ria Formosa. It then continues towards Spain, stopping at Vila Real de Santo António. After a typical Portuguese lunch, it’s a ferry ride across the River Guadiana to visit the charming Spanish town of Ayamonte, where you will have some free time to walk around its picturesque streets and squares, to do some shopping, and to have a coffee.

Max numbers: Four passengers Worth knowing: Baby seats are not available.

You are required to bring and wear a mask in the car, on the ferry, and inside the monuments.

Owner/guide Lívia also offers wine tours.

Cost: €€180/car for up to four passengers, which includes pick-up and drop-off in Faro, Estoi, Olhão, Moncarapacho, São Brás de Alportel, or Tavira. Outside of those areas, there is an additional fee. The return ferry tickets are around €9. Lunch, coffees and drinks are included, as well as a bottle of water per person.

E: liviagem.algarve@gmail.com W: liviagemalgarve.com/east-algarve-tour

Launched: 2015 Travel mode: Convertible jeeps What’s on offer: With one of the eight Alsafari guides, you’ll discover the hidden Algarve off-road in 4x4 vehicles driven by experienced professionals.

Journeys go through hills and valleys, open countryside, and into orange groves and cork oak forests. Visit an Arab castle, swim in a local river, and with the full day tour lunch is included – vegetable soup for starters, followed by grilled chicken with chips and salad, and then fruit of the season. A good choice for vegetarians is also available. There’s a stop at a local farm where you can try the local firewater, liqueurs and homemade honey.

Max numbers: Eight people per jeep.

Worth knowing: Suitable for all ages; children under 11 get a 50% reduction. In addition to the day tour, there are half-day options, morning or afternoon, and a sunset tour with dinner.

Cost: Full day with lunch, €48pp; half day, €30pp; sunset tour with dinner, €48pp.

There’s a promotional video at youtube.com/ watch?v=w-uiDkf6S7g T: 967 461 741 E: alsafaritours@gmail.com W: alsafaritours.com/

Launched: 2020 Travel mode: 9-seater van What’s on offer: Get ready for an actionpacked trip that will have your camera working overtime. The guided tour takes in Senhora da Rocha, Ferragudo, Praia da Rocha, the Fort of Santa Catarina to admire the Arade River, the famous beach of Praia da Rocha, Lagos (there’s an optional boat trip from here, out to the stunning caves and rock formations of Ponta da Piedade), a visit to Lagos Municipal Market, and the Slave Market, the first in Europe, and allows time for a walk around the town.

This is a great way to discover the local culture, history, traditions and the gastronomy.

Johnny’s Tours also offers guided trips to Évora and Seville.

Max numbers: Eight people.

Worth knowing: Hosted by Johnny himself, the eight hour tour includes free time for lunch (lunch is not included in the price). The tour is adapted to suit all ages, and where necessary, any mobility issues.

Cost: €€90pp. The optional boat trip is €20pp, with children under 12 years €10.

T: 966 507 051 E: info@johnnystours.com W: johnnystours.com

FOUR SEASONS

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S u n sh i n e h ol i d ay d e a l s f or Sp r i n g a n d W i n t er Luxury villas with private swimming pool or Jacuzzi Central clubhouse with heated indoor & outdoor pools, Lounge & pool bar and two restaurants Sports & Wellness . Gym & classes . Kids club & nursery . Golf shop . Mini M arket Discover how you can benefit from the 5 year club membership deals at our inform ation centre in Quinta do Lago.

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RATINGS PLUS

1 H OW M U C H F R U I T A N D V E G D O YO U B I N E V E RY W E E K ?

H O N E S T LY ? S U R P L U S S T U F F T H AT Y O U B U Y O R G R O W YO U R S E L F, C A N B E P U T T O V E R Y D E L I C I O U S U S E A S H O M E M A D E JA M S , C H U T N E YS O R S O R B E T S . . . YO U J U S T NEED THE RIGHT INSTRUC TIONS . JARS CAN BE USED

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T I M E A N D T I M E A G A I N – A N O T H E R S AV I N G O N W A S T E

The Basic Beginner’s One

Being a complete novice to jam making, I didn’t know where to start or what I would need. I liked the informative element of this article, and the little explanations around the process.

I didn’t go out to buy new jars, I just used some that I had kept from other preserves. Either way, do make sure to follow the instructions for sterilisation – a friend told me that mould can form quickly and easily on homemade jams, ruining the entire batch.

I liked the suggestion of using frozen fruit, as I often chop up any leftovers and pop them in the freezer with every good intention of making smoothies, but once there, I always forget them.

Now I have plans to try lots of different combos and see how the jam comes out, which means no food wastage! This first time, I went with an easy mix of raspberries and blueberries as I didn’t have pectin powder to add in. I halved the quantities just in case it was a disaster on the first go, but I am pleased to say it ended up not bad! https://www.masterclass.com/articles/howto-make-the-best-homemade-jam-in-4-stepseasy-berry-jam-recipe

My rating: 7/10 Very easy to follow for a first time jam maker.

Turning waste into wonderful Wo rd s:

LAURA SHEA

My rating: 9/10 So great to watch and learn how everything should look if it is going right! Do check out more of the videos in the collection for some great recipes.

4

The Classic Crowd Pleaser One

This tomato chutney recipe does produce quite large quantities so it may be best to weigh out your tomatoes first, and then adjust the other bits accordingly. Instead of white onions, I used red onion as I prefer the taste, and I left out the cardamom as I cannot stand it, but this is the great thing about making your own… it is all about you and your preferences. I didn’t have bay leaves or allspice berries, so I left them out, along with the peppercorns, but I did include some dried Italian herb mix instead.

When you come to make your batch, experiment, and include anything that you want, and don’t forget to raid your spice collection to enhance the end flavour. This is a very basic recipe and guide, and I have since read that chutneys need to be stored for at least a month before consuming so that the taste has truly developed. https://www.deliciousmagazine.co.uk/ recipes/tomato-chutney/

I love a good onion chutney in a cheese sandwich or with a fishcake. I did look at several DIY options, but this one has the easiest ingredients list, and you could mix red and brown onions to up the sweetness. If you can get your hands on the large white Spanish onions, then use those as well – I think they improve any dish. I did add more balsamic vinegar for a richer finish, but this is personal choice again. The recipe is easy to follow and doesn’t need constant attention, which is nice if you want to be making other things at the same time. All the advice that I have read suggests leaving your chutneys to develop for a month or so, but this one can be enjoyed as soon as it has cooled down, which is a nice bonus. It doesn’t come out super sticky to begin with, but this might change over time. https://realfood.tesco.com/recipes/ caramelised-onion-chutney.html

My rating: 6/10

My rating: 8/10

Simple enough and lots of scope for personalisation, however I think I would like smaller quantities to begin with.

No need to buy a load of complex ingredients for this and you can test your efforts immediately!

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The Taste of Portugal One

Figs in Port is an ideal option for figs that aren’t perfect to eat as-is. If you prefer, use ruby Port rather than tawny, that’s fine – but I would leave out the peppercorns; however, the choice is yours. Serve this spooned over ice cream and with locally-made biscuits on the side. Alternatively, enjoy with your steak, or drizzled over a large fresh rocket salad and top with some grated parmesan. You cannot go wrong with this dish! https://leitesculinaria.com/96813/recipesfigs-port.html

My rating: 9/10 This one will score major dinner party points!

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The Perfect Family Treat One

Everyone loves an ice cream or a sorbet, hot weather or not, and if you want some options at the ready, this is the video for you. I couldn’t believe how straightforward it was to make a good sorbet, and the fact that these recipes don’t need egg whites means they are vegan friendly.

Experiment and think outside the box if you have friends coming over, by adding in chili, lavender or a splash of vodka, and serve your sorbet as a palate cleanser. Or get the kids involved and let them pick the ingredients and give each one a silly name. This really is a healthy, additivefree dessert where the sky is the limit on creating new tastes. https://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=1wVS8h33ttU

My rating: 10/10 I know what I will be serving to replace my usual store-bought desserts! @ L AU R A _ L OV E S _T R AV E L L I N G 2 0 2 1

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I loved this video as I found the pace easy to cope with, and being able to see the fruit mix change consistency in the process helped me to know I was on the right track.

Having the advice at the start on cutting fruit when deciding your preference for chunky or smooth textures was great, as this was something that I hadn’t considered. You can also add in extra ingredients – any colour port, muscatel or Beirão will enhance the flavour, so just add it tablespoon by tablespoon until you are happy with the taste. The handy tips about the cleaning of the jars were also a welcome addition – I had previously thought that I could use the dishwasher for sterilisation. Make sure to watch the video on lemon curd as another thing to try on this journey! https://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=dcc4ZaRYhQc

The Veggie Delight One

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The Do It Your Way One

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the awning specialist Association of British Riding Schools

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A C R O S S T H E A L G A R V E , C H A R I T I E S H AV E B E E N S E T U P T O M E E T T H E N E E D S O F O T H E R S – H O M E L E S S C H I L D R E N , H E A LT H - C H A L L E N G E D A D U LT S , T H E H U N G R Y A N D T H E S U F F E R I N G . D O N AT I O N S O F T I M E A N D M O N E Y A R E V I TA L T O K E E P G O O D W O R K S G O I N G F O R T H E S E , A N D O T H E R O R G A N I S AT I O N S I N T H E R E G I O N . Y O U R H E L P I S N E E D E D

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THE WOLF VALLEY CHARITY FUND Based in Vale do Lobo, the Wolf Valley Charity Fund works to raise money that can be distributed to worthy causes across Loulé. Beneficiaries include UNIR Saúde Mental Health and Casa da Primeira Infáncia. Founded in 1999 by a group of residents eager to support their new Portuguese community, all money raised – over €1million so far – is spent on supporting the organisations that need its help most. Wolf Valley “relies on the generosity and enthusiastic participation of Vale do Lobo companies and staff, as well as Vale do Lobo property owners, linked operators, local companies and other kind friends”. It is renowned for its annual Charity Day, which has become a firm fixture in the Vale do Lobo social calendar. This year’s Golf Tournament is being held on Saturday 21

August, with golfers and non-golfers alike being encouraged to sign up for an action-packed fun day that serves as a vital fundraiser.

E: help@wolfvalleycharity.com W: wolfvalleycharity.com

ALERTA A number of wildfires have gripped the Algarve in recent years. In 2018, more than 1,000 firefighters battled flames in the hills above Monchique. Last year, a number of people had to be evacuated from their homes near the Spanish border before the flames fanned towards Tavira.

This is where the charity Alerta comes into force. Formally established in 2016 by British ex-pat Debby Burton, Alerta is the Forest Fire Alert Association, and supports firefighters while supplying vital information to residents.

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CHARITY FLAVOUR PLUS PLUS

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cancer patients can avoid having to travel to Lisbon for radiotherapy treatments, which can last as long as six weeks. In 2017, the TRUE BEAM Linear Accelerator came into operation, allowing for greater precision in the distribution of treatment to the tumour, meaning the patient is subjected to less radiation.

To donate to the AOA, you can fill out a form via the website or send a cheque or a bank transfer to IBAN CCA // PT50 0045 7210 40222924977 44 Note: Send the transfer/deposit slip to the AOA Headquarters, with your name and NIF, and they will send you a donation receipt by return.

Volunteers work tirelessly throughout the wildfire season, distributing supplies like food, drink and clean clothing to Bombeiros. Larger monetary donations are spent on things like PPE equipment and defibrillators. You can become a team member and help update the dedicated Facebook page with information during the fire season. All you need is a laptop or iPad with a reliable internet connection; full training is provided.

Donations are welcome from members of the public, including toiletries and energy bars. The full list of what’s needed can be found online, along with drop-off points for donations. In 2019, Debby was awarded the British Empire Medal, in recognition of her achievements.

E: bombeirosalgarve@gmail.com

T: 289 807 531

W: algarvefire.info

E: geral@aoa.pt

F: Associação Alerta de Incendio

W: aoa.pt

Florestal/Forest Fire Alert

LAR DE CRIANÇAS BOM SAMARITANO

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MADRUGADA Madrugada offers help and support to people in the Algarve affected by a life-limiting illness. This includes end-of-life nursing care so people can stay in their own homes. Based in Luz, this charity is in need of volunteers and experienced carers in Luz, Lagos and Lagoa.

Madrugada, dawn in English, relies entirely on donations to be able to offer its services free of charge. Typically, end-of-life care provision can last from four to 14 days at a daily cost of some €500 for 24-hour care.

One hour of nursing care with a registered palliative care nurse costs Madrugada €25.

The charity says that it “endeavours to offset these costs through medical insurance and donations” but this is not always possible.

The charity has a number of shops, including large home stores in Lagos and Lagoa, where you can buy goods and furniture with the money going straight back into the charity. If you have a few hours to spare, be it weekly or on a regular basis, email Magrugada.

T H E A S S O C I AT I O N OF UKRAINIANS IN THE ALGARVE This Faro-based community group is now accepting donations of bedding, clothes, food, hygiene products and power banks. The charity does ask that the items are in good condition as it is unable to repair clothing and bedding before it is shipped to those in need. The full list of donations that are being accepted can be found on the group’s Facebook page.

E: auafaro@gmail.com

T: 282 761 375 for more information.

E: office@madrugada-portugal.com W: madrugada-portugal.com

AOA The Association of Oncology Algarve, founded in 1994, describes itself as “a private institution of social solidarity, non-profit of public utility and with health purposes”.

Based in Faro, it provides help and support to people on the Algarve who have been diagnosed with cancer, as well as their families. It offers services including physiotherapy and speech therapy, and promotes itself through a number of campaigns including Blue November, which aims to educate men on the prevention of prostate and testicular cancer.

Funding has helped elevate many aspects of the charity; in 2006, the Radiotherapy Unit of the Algarve was launched. It is the first radiotherapy unit south of the Tejo river, carrying out more than 19,000 treatments a year. The unit means

W: facebook.com/

Lar de Crianças Bom Samaritano in Alvor, was established in 1993. The charity takes in children up to the age of 12, providing them with a safe home, and where possible keeping siblings together.

It describes itself as a “non-profit Private Institution of Social Solidarity”. Financial support comes from monetary assistance from the government, from charity partners, and from the general public, mainly the people of Portimão. The charity is keen to replicate a family environment, providing love and stability while allowing youngsters their privacy. The home provides its children with access to medical check-ups and treatment when needed, as well as guidance on their education and future job prospects.

T: 925 405 457 E: lcbs.adm@gmail.com W: larcbomsamaritano.org

CASTELO DE SONHOS

Castelo de Sonhos, or Castle of Dreams, is a Silves-based charity that helps the poor and underprivileged in the area. Formed in 1999, it serves more than 8,500 people.

The charity supplies basic necessities like food, clothing, bedding, and some furniture to less well-off families. It also provides legal, social and psychological support where needed. The charity is run by volunteers and is funded via its shop in Silves and donations. One of its most popular initiatives is its Annual Shoebox Drive for the Elderly each Christmas. Those wishing to help are urged to fill a shoebox full of necessities like soap, body lotion, a woolly hat or socks. These boxes are then distributed by the charity to elderly residents in need. Before the pandemic began in 2020, the charity was celebrating the16th year of its Shoebox initiative.

T: 282 441 654 / 968 774 904 E: geral@castelodesonhos.pt

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N 2003, a group of talented sculptors from different countries around the world came together in Pêra to create the first major sand sculpture event held in Portugal.

Today, Sand City is the largest park of its kind in the world, and a major attraction in the Algarve, delighting visitors of all ages. It features the Land of Dreams, inspired by the world’s history and art, as well as symbols of Portuguese culture, such as the Torre de Belém in Lisbon, and personalities like Cristiano Ronaldo and Fernando Pessoa.

Occupying an area of six hectares, the park is the work of more than 60 sculptors who explore sand sculpting techniques, replicating famous sites and scenes, and whimsical and amazing celebrities. From some 55,000 tons of sand, they produce exceptional works that stand out for their sheer magnitude.

The theme park’s invitation to travel ‘around the world in sand’, takes visitors on a journey across the continents to delight in and learn about the traditions, nature, history, art, culture, gastronomy, cinema, sports and music of each. This is a trip like no other, and there’s a fair amount of humour

It’s hard to believe that these amazing and often vast sculptures are made only from sand – there's no other material in the mix. At night, they take on a mysteriousl magical feel

LÍVIA MOKRI

to it – expect to see Pope Francis riding a Vespa, Queen Elizabeth II having tea beside Big Ben, Belgian friars producing beer, Gulliver on his travels, the Eiffel Tower, African Serengeti, and more.

The sand sculptures have an amazing amount of detail and reach incredible heights; some of them tower up to an astonishing 12 metres. A newcomer to the park cannot help but assume that concrete or another material has been added to the sand to allow it to hold its shape. But that is not the case; the sculptors mix normal sand with sand taken from the bottom of lakes that is more like clay, and it is that combination that gives their work its strength.

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Across the years

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Every year, there is a new theme. In 2004, the sculptors created the World of Magic, building legends and children’s stories in the sand, and introducing Cinderella, Pinocchio, Snow White, witches, giants, and fairies to delighted children and adults alike.

In 2007, the Wonders of the World was the chosen subject, and it was then that many of the great monuments were carved out, including the two-meter-high Eiffel Tower, the Angkor Temples, Sydney Opera House, and the Empire State Building.

In 2008, a new section was added, dedicated to the best of the world of the Hollywood movie, showing some 60 large-scale scenes from films such as King Kong, Casablanca, Star Trek, Alien, ET, The Lord of the Rings, Jurassic Park and the Indiana Jones saga, with famous Marvel characters like Spider-Man and Captain America.

A Tribute to the Discoveries was the topic launched in 2009.

35,000 tons of sand were dedicated to the great technical, scientific and cultural achievements, such as Neil Armstrong landing on the moon, and inventions like the clock and the camera.

Many of the world’s finest landscapes and animals in their habitats, were sculpted in 2010 under the heading A Living World, which featured the Himalayas, the Amazon rainforest, huge gorillas, lions, pandas, elephants, kangaroos, and penguins.

And the following year, almost all the animals of the world were captured in a single space, and taking a satirical look at human behaviour and different aspects of society. For example, the animals play music, dance, paint, read, walk, ride a motorcycle, eat and drink.

Then, in the 2012 Idols presentation, much-loved characters joined the exhibits, representing ancient gods and beliefs, and contemporary icons of politics, religion and arts. The cast of stars included musicians, actors such as Marilyn Monroe, Elvis Presley and Charlie Chaplin, and sports legends like Cristiano Ronaldo.

Music was the theme of the new exhibition in 2013, dedicated to different styles, musicians and musical expressions. And the public loved the 70 new sand scenes of Ray Charles, Amy Winehouse, Lady Gaga, Madonna, Queen, Bob Marley, Pavarotti, Mozart, and others.

A Tribute to the Arts, in 2017, further broadened Sand City’s appeal since it included several themes that had been presented in previous exhibitions, and applauded by visitors. Great names from the time of the ancient Greeks, and across the centuries to show highlights from the world of music, literature, architecture, sculpture, painting, theatre, and dance, provd to be crowd-pullers.

If you are looking for a very different experience in the Algarve, particularly a family outing, then Sand City is certainly a good choice.

There are workshops and demonstrations of the sculpting technique, video projections, a shop, a snack bar, a fish spa, and different cultural shows. By day, the Algarve sun shows up the meticulous detail of the sand sculptures; after dark, indirect lighting creates a fantasy-like effect. All camera-ready.

You can visit the theme park from March to December each year.

It opens at 10:00 and closes anywhere between 18:00 and 22:00, depending on the month. The entrance fee is €11.90 for an adult, €9.50 for seniors (65+), €5.90 for children(6-12 years old). A family ticket for two adults and two children is €29.90.

SAND CITY

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DU RING LOCKDOWN , SOME PEOPLE USED THEIR TIME AT H O M E T O I M P R O V E T H E I R P O R T U G U E S E , P E R F E C T T H E I R B A K I N G , O R PA I N T T H E I R H O M E . O N E YO U N G COU PLE OPTED TO LE ARN ALL THE Y COU LD ABOUT M U S H R O O M S , A N D H AV E T U R N E D T H E I R N E W - F O U N D KNOWLEDG E INTO A G ROWING BUSINESS

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ENTION THE word ‘farm’,

and one automatically thinks of countryside, open spaces, fresh air, and animals roaming. You do not think of a grand twostorey building in the heart of Portimão’s old town, with big windows onto the narrow pedestrian streets. But it is a farm – a mushroom farm, to be exact – and the result of a particular passion.

Cláudia Martins from Covilha, near Serra da Estrela, and her husband Ion Volosciuc, who arrived here from Russia at the age of 13, were living in London but missed contact with nature, the mountains and the sea. They returned here, armed with the research they had done during lockdown, and took the decision to breed mushrooms. Gribb Farm is the result, and today

the couple cultivate 14 different types, the majority of which could well be new to you.

And very glamourous-looking mushrooms they are – shades of the palest pink, the deepest gold, ivory, grey and brilliant white. Forget the rounded dome on a fat stalk that you find in the supermarket, at Gribb, some are fan-shaped, some flower-like, some so delicate and detailed that you simply want to admire them.

Ion and Cláudia spend ten hours a day looking after their multicoloured babies, ensuring the best conditions so that they can grow healthily and beautifully. And none of that time goes on digging and picking.

“We cultivate mushrooms that grow on wood,” Ion explains. “We use shavings that we collect from a woodshop in Monchique, which otherwise would go into landfill. Mushrooms are the fruiting body of the mycelium, tubular filaments of

G R I B B F A R M R u a F r a n c i s c o B i v a r, n 2 , 8 5 0 0 - 6 7 5 P o r t i m ã o . O p e n M o n d a y t o F r i d a y 1 0 : 0 0 – 1 8 : 0 0 T: 9 1 3 3 1 1 2 2 1 / 9 1 3 0 7 9 8 7 9 / E : h e l l o @ g r i b b f a r m . c o m / g r i b b f a r m . c o m

DIFFERENT PLUS

Black Pearl King Oyster – seafood flavour, meaty texture, great grilled or stir-fried Black Poplar – earthy, nutty, umami flavour, delicate texture, equally good in pasta sauces, and soups Blue Oyster – mild flavour, fleshy chewy texture, chicken taste, works well in risotto, sauteed, or with pasta Elm – savory umami flavour, with a fleshy texture, try it stirfried with risotto or pasta Eryngii – seafood flavour, chewy texture, meaty taste, have it grilled, deep-fried or stir-fried Lion’s mane – seafood flavour, delicate texture, best deepfried or sautéed Nameko – sweet taste of cashews, and a crunchy texture, excellent with miso soup and earthy dishes Pink Oyster – meaty, bacon taste, perfect deep-fried or sautéed Shiitake – earthy flavour, crunchy texture, grilled octopus taste that’s very versatile, great in soups, pasta, risotto Yellow Oyster – flowery flavour, delicate texture, fresh taste, enjoy it raw in fresh salads, or lightly cooked

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The enthusiasm of Cláudia and Ion is infectious. They love what they are doing, and are clearly focused on driving their initiative forward. “We want to expand our offering to include species that are new to us,” Cláudia says, “and supporting the local economy and educating the community about a sustainable and ecofriendly approach to life is a priority.”

As one of this year’s winners of INOVA Algarve 2.0 in the Tourism and Agrofood category, the Gribb business is formally recognised, and applauded, as a circular and sustainable business that reduces landfill and agro waste and turns it into food in a never-ending cycle.

Gribb Farm is worth visiting and the couple behind it are certainly worth engaging in conversation. And treating yourself to that mix of wonderful tastes and textures (order online and collect in Portimão) could well change your cooking repertoire. Mushrooms keep for five days in the fridge, and there’s an ebook of recipes to get you going. From every ebook sold, a donation is made to an NGO (non-governmental organisation) that fights hunger in the Algarve.

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fungi that break down and absorb the nutrients of the sawdust. We place them in a controlled temperature and a cycle of darkness-light to mimic the forest environment, and depending on the species, we see growth after one week.”

The lower level of the farm is furnished with vast black tents that zip closed. Inside, there are layers of shelves holding what looks like big square film-wrapped packages, each sprouting their latest crop. At first sight, one’s reaction is total surprise – almost disbelief. Then curiosity sets in and you want to know more, to touch, and to taste the season’s produce.

But there is no season, Cláudia explains: vertical agriculture means you are free to harvest year-round. And top chefs can constantly experiment with adventurous new dishes, knowing that the vital ingredient will be readily available.

The rarest mushrooms at Gribb Farm are Lion’s Mane, Nameko and Pink Oyster, mostly bought by top restaurants and hotels, but home cooks can order a Mix of the Day online, where a 250g bag is a very reasonable €6.00, and 500g is €11.50.

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IT’S A GREAT PLACE TO BE

READS PLUS

FULLY

booked

By Sandra Lawrence Publisher: Welbeck Publishing Genre: Gardening The books published by the chaps at Kew Gardens are an absolute delight. The quality of the photographs is incredible. I never tire of flicking through their offerings and wanting to be transported directly to glorious Kew. Witch’s Garden describes more than 50 of the world’s most powerful, harmful, legendary and storied plants – from the screaming Mandrake to calming St John’s Wort – and details how the weather was predicted with seaweed, the creation of salves for everything from broken hearts to sore heads, how they came to be regarded as protection from evil spirits and even as a way to induce immortality.

Wise women, apothecaries, witches, herbalists: whatever you like to call them, those who cultivate plants for their apparent mystical properties have existed for thousands of years. This is a fascinating read, and tells the story of our folkloric fascination with these magical specimens, documenting the beliefs and rituals surrounding the natural world.

Illustrated with pages of herbals held within the archives of the Royal Botanic Gardens, along with botanical illustrations and archival images depicting magic and mayhem, this special book evokes the bewitching nature of mysterious plants beautifully. It would make an excellent gift for your garden-loving friends, as well as those fascinated by mysticism.

BLETCHLEY PARK BRAINTEASERS

By Sinclair McKay Publisher: Headline Genre: Puzzles I bought this book as Christmas present for a friend who adores challenges that get your brain working overtime. She absolutely loved the mixed bag of puzzles it contains that kept her thoroughly entertained, and working hard!

When I first came across it, I was so impressed with the explanations, the history lesson, and the intriguing insights into life at Bletchley during the war and subsequently.

A real brain-box has compiled these puzzles – I especially loved the brainstorming challenges, which are more of a story you have to work through logically. A real change from Sudoku and Wordle!

The history of the evolution of Bletchley is fascinating. Cryptology, the Enigma Code, recruitment of the code breakers themselves is revealed in detail, so you are really learning while meeting the challenges set to readers.

I visited Bletchley Park myself a few years ago, and it made an indelible impression; its immense contribution to England’s war effort should never be underestimated.

I loved the descriptive writing of this book. It’s a history lesson and a brain teaser combined. If you like a challenge then have a go!

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A P H O T O B O O K T H AT S H E D S N E W L I G H T A N D C O LO U R O N PA S T E V E N T S I S T H E TO P C H O I C E O F DAW N A N N A N DA L E F O R M AY. A N D S H E B E E N WA D I N G T H R O U G H A P U Z Z L E C H A L L E N G E R , A N D FA N TA S Y T I T L E S . A S P E C I A L FAV O U R I T E T H I S M O N T H IS A GARDENING BOOK WITH A REAL D I FFER EN C E . . . AN D A B IT O F MAG I C

READS PLUS

THE COLOUR OF TIME

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Book of the month

By Dan Jones and Marina Amaral Publisher: Head of Zeus Genre: History This is one of the most incredible collections of photographs ever compiled. There are so many adjectives I could use to describe the amazement I felt at each photograph.

From the mid-19th century, many of the most celebrated moments and personalities in modern history – from Gettysburg to Hiroshima and from Lincoln to Churchill – have been captured for posterity by the camera lens.

Marina Amaral uses digital techniques, underpinned by painstaking research, to colourise 200 such images embracing an entire century of world history. The results are revelatory, transforming the monochrome of early photography into the vibrant hues of real life. Statesmen and soldiers, as well as the faces of hundreds of ordinary people, thus appear in dramatically vivid guise. The images are organised in ten chronological chapters. Each image is accompanied by a 200-word caption by best-selling historian Dan Jones, telling the stories behind them.

A fusion of amazing pictures and well-chosen words, The Colour of Time offers a unique – and often beautiful – perspective on the past.

ALL HER FAULT

By Andrea Mara Publisher: Penguin Genre: Psychological thriller This was such an unexpected treat! Very different, fresh ideas, and a fabulous ending!

Marissa Irvine and her son have moved, and Milo is the new boy in his class at school.

Marissa was concerned that he didn’t have any friends at his new school, so when he went home from Kerryglen National School in an affluent Dublin suburb, with his classmate Jacob, that was good news. The plan was that Marissa would pick him up from 14 Tudor Grove a little later. What could be better?

But when Marissa arrived at the house, expecting to meet Jacob’s mother Jenny, the door was answered by Esther, who didn’t know Jenny or Jacob. The phone number she’d been given for Jenny was not recognised. Milo had disappeared. And so had Jacob’s nanny.

When something like this happens there are two immediate reactions: the first is to be part of the search for the missing child but the second – and far longer-lasting – is the rush to find someone to blame. It doesn’t need to be the person who took the child – that can happen later. Right now blame can be

loaded on the mother ‘who put her work before her child’, Jenny, who employed the person thought to have taken Milo, and of course, Milo’s nanny. There’s plenty of choice there.

First among the blamers is Adeline FurlongKennedy, Jenny’s mother-in-law, who’s never short of a barbed comment that might wound her daughter-in-law, and Jenny’s husband is doing little to protect her.

I felt for Marissa... but it was Jenny who really grabbed my attention. She might have employed the nanny but she had the guts to go to Marissa and see how she could help – and then to continue to help.

I thought I knew how the story was going to go, only to find that I was completely wrong as the plot headed off down some unexpected pathways, and I revised my opinion of various characters. The ending is stunning – and gloriously appropriate!

DAUGHTER OF THE MOON GODDESS

By Sue Lynn Tan Publisher: Harper Voyager Genre: Fantasy As you know, I am rarely a fan of fantasy but I do read this genre to pass details on. However, this is a beautiful story, and I will definitely read the next one in the series! Inspired by the legend of the Chinese moon goddess, Chang’e, it tells of how a young woman’s quest to free her mother, pits her against the most powerful immortal in the realm.

Growing up on the moon, Xingyin is accustomed to solitude, unaware that she is being hidden from the feared Celestial Emperor who exiled her mother for stealing his elixir of immortality. But when Xingyin’s magic flares and her existence is discovered, she is forced to flee her home, leaving her mother behind.

Alone, powerless, and afraid, she makes her way to the Celestial Kingdom, a land of wonder and secrets. Disguising her identity, she seizes an opportunity to learn alongside the Emperor’s son, mastering archery and magic, even as passion flames between her and the prince.

To save her mother, Xingyin embarks on a perilous quest, confronting legendary creatures and vicious enemies. But, when treachery looms and forbidden magic threatens the kingdom, she must challenge the ruthless Celestial Emperor – striking a dangerous bargain in which she is torn between losing all she loves or plunging the realm into chaos.

Daughter of the Moon Goddess begins an enchanting duology which weaves ancient Chinese mythology into a sweeping adventure of immortals and magic, of loss and sacrifice.

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Expounding

the views C O N S I D E R E D T O B E P O R T U G A L’ S G R E AT E S T 1 9 T H - C E N T U R Y N OV E L I S T – T H E O B S E R V E R N E W S PA P E R WA S TO R A N K H I M ALONGSIDE DICKENS – EÇA DE QUEIRÓS, SPENT 15 YEARS IN E N G L A N D A S P O R T U G U E S E C O N S U L . I T W A S T H E R E T H AT H E P R O D U C E D S O M E O F H I S M O S T I M P O R TA N T W O R K S

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ARING TO dwell on

contentious subjects, Eça de Queirós’s first novel was published in 1875 while he was living in Newcastle.

O Crime do Padre Amaro (The Sin of Father Amaro) highlights the double standards of the Catholic Church, the abuse of power, and the destructive effects of celibacy. Set in a provincial Portuguese town where the clergy are lascivious liars, Queirós intended that it should shock his readers. Like Dickens, his ambition was to bring about social change by exposing the hypocrisy of polite society.

Throughout his life, Queirós was never fearful of being outspoken. The illegitimate son of a prominent magistrate, he was brought up by his paternal grandparents. He qualified with a law degree from Coimbra University, but he quickly branched out in his own preferred direction. He distinguished himself as a writer of prose-poetry published in popular magazines, and as a journalist.

In an early assignment in 1869, aged just 24, he travelled from Portugal to Egypt reporting on the opening of the Suez Canal. The port of Alexandria came under his critical gaze. He described with disgust the recently-arrived Europeans, and their desire for music halls, gambling dens, seedy brothels and cafés. He highlighted their shallow thinking and disdain for the Arabs.

Recognising the Suez Canal as an element of Britain’s great dream – that is “absolute possession of the route to her empire in the East” – he lists Gibraltar as Britain’s invincible

C A R O LY N K A I N

WRITERS PLUS

I detest England, but this does not stop me from declaring that as a thinking nation, she is probably the foremost

The domestic scene of the nouveau riche was put under his magnifying glass. He ridiculed their inability to appreciate a visit to the Continent: “The Englishman spends most of his pleasure trip cursing (to himself, for neither the Bible nor his respectability allows him to curse aloud). He does not understand foreign languages; he finds the food strange; everything which is foreign – customs, clothes, ways of thinking – everything shocks him; he suspects that he is being robbed; he has the vague belief that the bed-linen in the hotel is never clean and if he loses a cane, or the train is not on time, he will compose a letter (of complaint) to The Times.”

Transferring his employment from Newcastle to Bristol, he did not grow to like England any better. He was depressed by the dreadful weather and “the indecent manner of cooking vegetables”.

Queirós continued to observe the difference between the lifestyles of the poor and wellto-do. In one of his Letters from England, he illustrates the point: “...selfishness (which) is particularly English and which allows 300 people round a lake in Hyde Park, in London’s most elegant quarter, to watch a poor child drown while no one can be bothered to take the cigar from his mouth and hold out a plank to him to save his life!”

As a self-confessed Francophile, it must have been a great release for Queirós when in 1888 he was appointed as the Portuguese consul-general in Paris. Not to mention the relief expressed by the English, who by now had heard enough of his complaints.

Today, Eça de Queirós’s works are read in 20 languages.

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(Cousin Bazilio) – and he supplemented his small diplomatic income by writing a regular column published in Gazeta de Notícias, a Brazilian periodical, where he frequently expressed his negative views about European factory owners and the privileged upper classes. Entitled Letters from England, the English aristocracy – the so-called “cream” – was frequently subjected to his scrutiny both at home and abroad.

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rock and the islands of Malta and Cyprus as her colossal war depots.

Five years later, when he found himself living in Newcastle, he complained: “I detest England, but this does not stop me from declaring that as a thinking nation, she is probably the foremost.”

He was employed by the Portuguese consular service, a job that gave him time for his personal writing. He and his wife and young family had just spent two years in Havana, Cuba, encouraging trade and friendship between the two countries.

That job was low-key and in sharp contrast to his posting in the north-east of England, where he found himself caught up in a period of social change. The demands of factory workers were becoming a matter of great concern.

Queirós reported back to the Portuguese government, dispatching facts and figures about strikes in the textile mills of Lancashire and developments in the coalfields of Northumberland and Durham. The miners there had secured a weekly coal allowance for themselves, free housing and far better wages than similar workers in South Wales.

He witnessed radical transformations brought about by the trade union movement. In Durham, the Miners’ Gala was already well established and Queirós was able to listen to the vast numbers of notable socialist and communist speakers attracted to the annual rally.

Taking advantage of the North Eastern Railway service that operated efficiently throughout Northumberland and into Scotland, Queirós also travelled to London and as far south as Cornwall. He continued to write novels – in 1876, O Primo Basílio

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Top: Eça de Queiros never liked the England or the English. Far left: Tynemoutth Station; left: Durham, where the Miners' Gala began in 1871. Below: the misspelled wall plaque in Grey Street, Newcastle-upon-Tyne

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SOCIAL PLUS

ALL ABOUT YOU AFTER SINGING THE PRAISES OF H AV I N G A Y O U T U B E C H A N N E L L A S T M O N T H , W E T H I N K I T ’ S O N LY F A I R T H AT W E G E T O U R T E C H I E E X P E R T

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JASON GRANVILLE

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HETHER YOU you are setting up your channel for friends and family, a charity or your business, first you need to know your YouTube channel’s purpose.

This is one of the most important tips for beginners. Do you want to share your passion with the world? Is YouTube part of your video content marketing strategy to promote your business? Are you looking to integrate social media and video marketing strategies?

Are you trying to make your YouTube channel your business?

Knowing what your purpose is will help guide you while you start creating content.

If this is about your business, you’ll obviously want to brand your channel with your company’s name. It is also a good idea to link your channel to your website and other social media accounts, so everything is reinforcing everything else.

Having a strong grasp on the purpose can also help you seed ideas for the types of video content that will most likely resonate with your audience. As with other social media, if you go into your YouTube channel blindly, you may suffer from having unfocused content that lacks cohesiveness and drives would-be subscribers away.

Getting started If you don’t already have a Google account, you’ll need to sign up for one, and then head over to YouTube and sign in with

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T O E X P L A I N T H E H O W -T O ’ S

your username. Next, you will find there are certain hoops you have to jump through, such as leaving a comment on a video or creating a playlist. I recommend the ‘Upload Video’ action, as it will give you prompts to guide you through creating your own channel. You will be asked if you want to use the name associated with your Google account, or with a brand account.

The advantage of using a brand account is that you’ll be able to give channel management access to multiple people. Once you choose which option you’d like to use, YouTube will set up your channel. It’s as simple as that.

Verification After you create your YouTube channel, you’ll need to verify it.

This will enable certain features that you will not have access to without verification, including having the ability to customise your video thumbnails; an engaging thumbnail can be the difference between people clicking to watch your video, or completely ignoring it.

To verify your account, navigate to ‘Channel status and features’ in the YouTube settings and click on the ‘Verify’ button.

You will be prompted to give your phone number, at which point you can select between getting a verification code via text or voice call. This verification code should arrive quickly.

First impressions We all know how important first impressions are. They can

SOCIAL PLUS

Here you will see a preview of your channel’s home page.

Click on ‘Add Channel Art’ where the banner would be, which will prompt you to upload your banner. Nice and easy.

If you are building a video content marketing strategy to promote an existing business, you’ll know what services or products you have to offer and to whom you are offering them. But if you are getting into YouTube with hopes of making it your business, you might have a harder time finding your niche. Focus on things you are already proficient in or have established credibility for. Think of a subject you are passionate about and want to share with others.

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Practice makes perfect

There is a tremenous amount of suggestion and guidance available to help you develop your own YouTube channel

set the tone for your entire interaction with any given person in any given circumstance. Your YouTube channel banner will likely be the first thing viewers and possible subscribers will see when visiting your channel.

It’s big and sits right at the top your channel’s main page. Having an effective banner is your chance to make that good first impression, enticing viewers to stay and check out some videos and maybe even gaining their trust.

Artwork

It might be a cheesy saying, but that doesn’t make it any less true. Watch enough professional YouTubers and you’ll find a similar sentiment. While it might be easy to critique the quality or consistency of your early work, you should be proud of the effort it took to get there. Plus, early work can still generate subscribers! Wherever you are on your learning curve, just press Record. Start making your videos as soon as possible. Learning how to start a YouTube channel as a beginner is largely about pointing that camera and shooting.

Play around with camera angles. Search for your voice.

Figure out how to light your shots. Dabble with editing. This is your time to start gaining experience. Just start filming.

A common concern of beginners is their camera set-up.

Some YouTubers might be afraid of looking like a rookie with bad equipment, while others might just be excited for a new toy. Either way, getting the best camera should not be a top priority. Your smartphone could probably do the job for now.

Instead of getting a new camera right away, investigate getting tools that might make it easier to shoot with your phone, such as a tripod or stand. Eventually you’ll want to upgrade your camera, and a solid DSLR should suffice when the time does come.

One of the most common mistakes new YouTubers make is concentrating too much on video quality and not enough on audio.

It should be the other way around because nothing ruins a video faster than poor sound. If your audio is not clear, your background music is too loud, or you speak too softly, you’ll certainly see complaints in the comments. Make sure that what needs to be heard is heard. The best way to do this is by having strong mics. An often-overlooked YouTube tip for beginners is to invest in a good microphone before a good camera.

As always, a few hundred words is hardly enough to give you a comprehensive guide, but please feel free to contact me if you require any further assistance.

First impressions can set the tone for your interaction with any given person in any given circumstance

Creating YouTube channel artwork should be no problem if you have design skills. If you don’t, there are several tools and templates online that will make the whole process much easier. Canva is one easy-to-use graphic design platform with several YouTube channel art templates that can help you get a jump start on designing your own banner, and it’s free. A little tip is to make sure your logo and text are centralised, as your banner will have to work on several types of devices. Once you have your design finalised, go to your channel and hover over the area where your banner would be. You’ll see a camera icon flash up on the top right of the banner area. Click on the icon and upload away!

If you have yet to upload any videos, you will need to click on ‘Customise Channel’ towards the top right of the page.

JASON GR ANVILLE East Algar ve Digital T: 9 1 6 9 8 4 6 6 8 / E : j a s o n @ e a s t a l g a r v e d i g i t a l . c o m / W : e a s t a l g a r v e d i g i t a l . c o m

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PHOTOGRAPHY PLUS

TONY WOODS

NOT RUNNING SPIKES Where Times Square, NY When 2018 What’s special Not the best shoes for a quick getaway

Advice to others Candid photo taken from a distance, so the subject was unaware of the photographer

Camera Canon 5D MK2

Garrett’s view The contrast between the harsh, studded metal and the surrounding blue works well together.

P u t ti n g th e i r f o o t i n i t , a n d th a t ’s exa c tl y w h a t m e m b e r s of th e A l g a r ve P h o to g r a p h e r s ’ G ro u p d i d . I t wa s i n te re s ti n g to s e e h ow m a ny to t a l l y d i f f e re n t a p p ro a c h e s th e re we re , a c ro s s m o re th a n 5 0 s u b m i s s i o n s . G a r re t t Wa l s h (a l g a r ve p h o to g r a p hy. c o m) we n t f e e t f i r s t i n to th e d e c i s i o n p ro ce s s

Interpretations EVELINE SAKKERS

SHOPPING Where Lille, France When 2017 What’s special The bright colours of the shoes

Advice to others Keep your eyes open for smaller things

Camera Canon G15

Garrett’s view The importance of putting ‘feet first’ is portrayed in this collection of colourful footwear.

DARYL GABIN

AND… IMPACT Where Gondomar When 2018 What’s special The subtle reflection off the water and pose of the subject before impact.

Advice to others Be prepared to be patient for your shot, but be ready.

Camera

Canon 5d Mk3

Garrett’s view A dramatic moment captured before the big splash and tastefully cropped.

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NIGEL MOORE

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ARE MY FEET TOO BIG? Where At a friend’s house When January 2021 What’s special I couldn't resist that pose!

Advice to others When taking shots of animals and pets, always try to get right down to their level

Camera

Fujifilm X100V

Garrett’s view With a clever angle, good depth of field and soft lighting, this adorable puppy was beautifully captured.

LUDI STEIBNER

TESTING THE WATER Where Funchal When March 2022 What’s special Have you ever seen statues testing the water before?

Advice to others Keep observing, observing, observing...

Camera Samsung A32 (Mobile) GARRETT’S VIEW

Nicely framed composition, emphasised by the dark, tropical background.

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TECHNO PLUS

S TAY O N T R A C K , O R R AT H E R , T R A C K A L L F O R M S O F T R A N S P O R T, W H E R E V E R Y O U A R E . Y O U J U S T N E E D YO U R P H O N E A N D T H E R I G H T A P P TO S E E WHERE THE HIGH FLIERS ARE

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CH R I S PAR TR I DG E

NE OF THE truly magical powers of

the hyper-connected world is that we ordinary travellers can find out where our train, boat or plane is and track it from moment to moment on our smartphones, eliminating the fear that you have missed it, or it has been secretly cancelled or something.

It even works with buses. In some places, they still come along in threes, but at least you can see them lining up on your phone’s onscreen map as they approach.

And it can be huge fun if you are interested in transport.

Fans of things maritime are currently avidly tracking where the superyachts so prized by Russian oligarchs are heading (Vladivostok is a popular destination, understandably, and there is a whole fleet moored off the Maldives).

Ships can be tracked because they transmit their position using AIS (Automatic Identification System) and the signals are made public. AIS is mandatory under international maritime law, though this does not stop ships from switching it off if they want to disappear from public view for a while, and several superyachts

owned by oligarchs have switched AIS off for periods as they scamper for safety from marinas in the EU and the Caribbean.

Most interest has been focused on Roman Abramovich, who apparently owns at least five of these monster vessels.

Get tracking Several websites that give free access to AIS data also have apps that make things easier on your smartphone. Take a look at marinetraffic.com or vesseltracker.com. Both show global maps with symbols attached to every vessel – click on the symbol and it shows a photo of the vessel, its technical details and its status, such as speed and heading or ‘at anchor’.

Aeroplanes are even easier to track, although they can switch off their position information. Travellers will usually use their airline’s own information system to get the latest arrival or departure times, but an entertaining alternative is Flight Board for iOS, which provides an extremely realistic rendering of the traditional flight board found in most airports, with flight information from 16,000 airports and 1,400 airlines globally. Just as if you were in the terminal instead of in a tailback on the EN125.

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Trains and boats and planes

TECHNO PLUS

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Flightradar24, above, and App in the Air, left, are impressive. They tell you which flight is where – delivering the lowdown on the high up, so to speak – and offer both entertainment and information

My personal favourite is Flightradar24, which shows aerial activity over your head, wherever you are, using your GPS position to pinpoint you on a map of the area with all the aircraft located with little icons. Entertainingly, the helicopter icons have rotors that really turn.

Click on an icon and it will show the make of aircraft, a photo, call sign if available, and its course and speed.

Commercial airliners will have the airline and flight details as well, and you can see the whole route. It is very impressive – as I write, TAP flight TP785 is flying over my house en route from Stockholm to Lisbon.

An amazing feature is the ability to ‘follow’ aircraft as if from another close by. The aircraft appears in 3D with the ground laid down beneath. However, this feature is available only to paying subscribers, for whom the ads are removed as well.

App in the Air (Android) is a flight tracker with many extra features such as airport tips and maps, and the ability to import your flight history to keep track of air miles and other loyalty programmes, all offline, and you can get gate changes and flight status updates by text message, so you don’t have to use data roaming. And there is a lot of advice from fellow travellers.

Unless you are a complete anorak, you only need to track trains and buses when you need to catch one to get places. In the UK, most bus companies have apps that show nearby buses with an estimate of their time of arrival.

The Moovit public transport app operates in a number of Portuguese cities, including Portimão. It shows buses, trains, ferries and Ubers.

Best Transportation Simulator apps

Ship Sim Navigate the high seas as captain of one of a wide range of ship types from cruise liners to bulk carriers and oil tankers in a variety of voyages.

Find out for yourself just how hard it is to stop a supertanker! Hazards include storms, rocks and running aground, so navigational skills are paramount (but not difficult to learn.)

X-Plane 10 Flight Simulator A flight sim with graphics that dramatically recreates the views from the pilot’s seat, including all instruments and a huge range of scenery.

The game offers 24 challenges to guide and test pilots as they progress from rookie to expert.

Train Sim

Coach Bus Simulator

Drive more than 50 historical and modern trains in realistic 3D landscapes with genuine train sounds.

Pick up passengers, carry freight, sit in a carriage staring out of the window or watch the train from the trackside. And yes, for your inner child you can experience derailments.

Run a coach or bus to earn money for upgrades such as new vehicles, fancy graphics on the sides and so on. Drive to the bus station where animated passengers get on and off. Depart through varied scenery and lots of lovely weather and realistic traffic. Manage your company, including hiring drivers, getting damaged vehicles repaired and so on.

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WHERE NOW PLUS

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50s

GEORGE CHAKIRIS With a screen career that spanned more than 50 years, George Chakiris is still best remembered for his starring role as Bernardo, the leader of the Sharks teen gang in the multi-Oscar winning 1961 musical, West Side Story. Ohio-born George, who moved to California with his family in his early teens, got his first job working in a department store and went to dance classes in the evenings. He began getting small movie roles as a dancer in the late 1940s and appeared in hit films such as Gentlemen Prefer Blondes (1953) and White Christmas (1954). A publicity photograph with Rosemary Clooney brought the good-looking young dancer to the notice of film scouts. He originally appeared in West Side Story on the London stage, in the role of Riff, leader of the Jets, but when casting the film it was felt that he would make a better Bernardo. The rest is history. He continued to star in films like 633 Squadron throughout the 1960s and concentrated on stage and TV work for the following two decades, guesting in a variety of shows including Hawaii Five-O, The Partridge Family, and Dallas.

His last TV role was a guest appearance on British TV in Last of the Summer Wine in 1996.

He now lives in Los Angeles and has turned what was his hobby – hand-crafting his own brand of silver jewellery – into a business, George Chakiris Collections. His memoir, My West Side Story was released to coincide with Steven Spielberg’s recent remake of the film. “I loved being a chorus dancer. We got to be around extraordinary people,” says the man who worked with Marilyn Monroe, among others.

Whatever happened to…

R EM EM B ER TH E O R I G I N A L M OVI E O F WEST S I D E STO RY – S H OWN O N T E L E V I S I O N R E C E N T LY A N D S T I L L A S V I B R A N T A S W H E N I T W A S F I R S T M A D E ?

DANCER GEORGE CHAKIRIS IS ONE OF THIS MONTH ’ S REDISCOVERIES

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JILL ECKERSLEY

MOLLY RINGWALD

70s

Although Molly Ringwald had been acting since she was five years old, she became an international star only in the 1980s as part of the so-called ‘Brat Pack’, a group of young actors that included Rob Lowe and Demi Moore. They started in a number of highly successful teen-orientated movies like The Breakfast Club and Pretty in Pink. Molly herself is inclined to play down the connection, although she and Anthony Michael Hall – the only true teens in the group – remain good friends to this day. Molly is of Swedish descent; her father is a jazz pianist and she still claims that jazz is her ‘comfort blanket’ and one of her passions, alongside acting and writing. Most recently she has appeared in Broadway shows, as well as releasing her own jazz album in 2013.

Having been educated at the Lycée Française in California, she spent some time in France in the 1990s and appeared in several French films. She says that she was always very aware of her image as a teenage role model, which she took very seriously. Molly remains proud of her most successful films like Sixteen Candles and Pretty in Pink because they were among the few films of the time that showed teen life from the perspective of girls, rather than boys. She lives in New York with her husband, Greek writer Panio Gianopoulos, and their three children.

50s

70s

JOHN CONTEH

An enterprising company in Antwerp, Belgica was in fact best known for producing Holy Communion wafers

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Thirty-four wins from 39 fights is a record to be proud of for any boxer, but especially for a Liverpool lad who was taken to a local boxing club by his dad to keep him out of trouble as a young boy. He admits he wasn’t a great success at junior level, but once he knuckled down, there was no stopping him. From 1974 to 1978, John Conteh held the WBC lightheavyweight title and was awarded an MBE for services to boxing in 2017.

By the time he had won British, European and Commonwealth titles, he had become a celebrity as well as a sportsman. Fellow Liverpudlian, Paul McCartney, chose to include him on the cover on the Wings album Band on the Run in 1973. He became a TV personality appearing in shows like Superstars and The Weakest Link and also took on several acting roles in films, stage and on TV. Handsome, witty and articulate, he still works as an after-dinner speaker, and although based in London, he often visits Liverpool, especially when there’s a big fight on! He is married to Veronica and has two grown-up children, James, who is a professional golfer, and Joanna, who is a financial adviser.

John has always been honest about his battles with alcoholism – now happily in the past – and says: “I never rode off into the sunset – it didn't happen for me – but you just do the best you can!”

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In the early 1950s, when cartoons and stories about outer space and aliens were all the rage, and Dan Dare was battling the Mekon on the cover of the Eagle comic, it wasn’t surprising that an enterprising company based in Antwerp saw a gap in the confectionery market. More surprising, perhaps, was the fact that Belgica was best known for producing Holy Communion wafers. They had found that there was a decline in demand and diversified into producing rice-paper spheres, filled with a kind of sherbet mixture – loved by children ever since. It is possible that the idea of filling a taste-free outer coating with some sort of powder had its origins in medicine, as a way of disguising unpleasant-tasting treatments back at the turn of the previous century.

Flying Saucers sold well and the company were flattered when they were officially named a ‘traditional product of Flanders’.

Eventually Belgica was taken over by sweetd manufacturer Astra, based in Belgium and the Netherlands, and the sweets were renamed UFOs to sound more up to date. Their present range includes UFO Pearl, UFO Fruit and UFO Citric. Each little sphere contains a mere 34 calories, ingredients include sugar, bicarbonate of soda and natural colourings… and they are both vegan-friendly and halal, in case you were wondering.

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FLYING SAUCER SWEETS

Another summer season is ahead of us and

hats, sourced from a small family-run

the shop is full of lightweight dresses, linen

Italian factory. The suitcase friendly cotton

trousers, shirts and loose tops for women

hats are still made by hand and are full of

and t-shirts, board shorts and Bermudas

Italian flair.

for men.

As an addition to the labels selected last year I have found some new fashion suppliers who see sustainability as their responsibility. Their collections consist of clothes which have not travelled huge distances, as they are produced in Europe, or even in Portugal. They work with fabric suppliers who are socially responsible and follow eco-friendly production processes.

My favourite find is a gorgeous brand from Italy, which focuses on simple but unique pieces in an unconventional style.

The dresses and trousers have a comfortable fit and are made of fine linen in subtle colours. For the more adventurous woman I am still a great fan of NIÚ, a young team of designers inspired by magical places.

For this summer’s season it was the colours and spirit of Mexico. They combine striped

And for the sandal lover I have extended my range of the famous Danish jute sandal for women and men, which come in three styles.

Now I have 12 different colours to match the tones of the summer season. Needless to say, yellow and orange are amongst them.

tee-shirts in bold colours with skirts and trousers which have floral and geometrical prints in warm and intense orange tones,

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violets and yellows.

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I have also found the most unusual summer

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EXPAT INFO PLUS

Strategic financial planning W H E N W A S T H E L A S T T I M E Y O U R E V I E W E D Y O U R TA X A N D F I N A N C I A L P L A N N I N G ? A N N U A L R E V I E W S A R E K E Y T O S U C C E S S F U L W E A LT H M A N A G E M E N T, A N D E X P E R T A D V I C E W I L L H E L P YO U M A K E T H E B E S T D E C I S I O N S , S AY S D A N H E N D E R S O N , P A R T N E R , B L E V I N S F R A N K S

Residency and taxation Make sure you know where you are resident for tax purposes, especially if you are new to Portugal or spend time in two countries. You then want to structure your investments and wealth in the most suitable way to minimise taxation – in Portugal, the UK and wherever you have financial interests.

Regardless of how effective your tax planning in the UK was, you pretty much need to start afresh in Portugal. What was tax-efficient in the UK is unlikely to be tax-efficient here.

Explore the compliant opportunities available in Portugal to establish what would work for your situation and aims, and how much tax you could potentially save whilst still meeting your tax obligations.

Estate planning Do not leave estate planning to the final stage of financial planning. It is vital to review your estate planning when living in Portugal, as its succession regime works very differently to that in the UK. Are you aware, for example, that Portugal’s ‘forced heirship’ rules could automatically pass a significant proportion of your

Financial planning Perhaps the key rule for financial planning is that it must be specifically structured around your personal circumstances – your lifestyle today and plans for the future, family situation, income requirements, objectives, time horizon and risk tolerance.

If you don’t already have a financial plan in place for Portugal, or you haven’t reviewed your savings and investments recently, you need to check they are suitable for you today and the current economic climate. Do they have the right balance of risk and return? Do you have adequate diversification? Can they provide income without risking the capital? Could you consolidate shares and funds so they are easier to manage?

At the same time, consider your tax liabilities on investment returns, and whether you could take advantage of tax-efficient arrangements in Portugal. Also, how will these savings be passed to your heirs? What inheritance taxes will they pay? Can the funds be passed on directly or through a lengthy probate process?

And when deciding what to do with your pensions, take care to take tax regulated advice and explore all your options to establish the most suitable approach for you.

Financial planning Every family is different. Your strategic financial planning must be carefully designed for you. All the various aspects should work cohesively together to create an overall wealth management plan that provides long-term financial security for yourself, and achieves your wishes for your heirs.

For peace of mind that you have covered everything, and that making one financial decision will not have unexpected consequences on another, take specialist, cross-border advice.

All advice received from any Blevins Franks firm is personalised and provided in writing. This article, however, should not be construed as providing any personalised taxation and/or investment advice. Keep up to date on the financial issues that may affect you on the Blevins Franks news page at www.blevinsfranks.com

T: 2 8 9 3 5 0 1 5 0 / E : p o r t u g a l @ b l e v i n s f r a n k s . c o m / W : b l e v i n s f r a n k s . c o m

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worldwide estate to your direct family? This can have unwelcome consequences for certain families unless you plan ahead. You can specify in your Will for the EU regulation ‘Brussels IV’ to apply relevant British law to your estate instead, but take care to understand your options and any tax implications.

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country it is particularly important to ensure that your finances are suitable for your life here, and the local tax and succession regulations. If you are hoping to move to Portugal soon, it’s never too early to start planning.

One reason to review your wealth management is to confirm it is up to date. Establish whether any changes in tax rules, financial regulations or your own personal circumstances mean you should adjust your arrangements. However, to ensure everything is suitable for your life in Portugal, as well as your needs and goals, your review needs to go beyond this.

Many people consider only segments of their finances at a time. They may have bought shares in companies they like or invested in funds recommended by an adviser years ago. They may speak to a tax accountant about Portuguese taxation and tax planning opportunities, then to a lawyer about setting up a Portuguese Will. At some point, they look at the options for their pension funds.

For a truly effective review, consider how your tax planning, investments, pensions and estate planning work together. Here are some key considerations:

ALGARVE P L U S

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F YOU HAVE moved to Portugal from another

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Algarve office

© Currencies Direct Ltd, One Canada Square, Canary Wharf, London E14 5AA, United Kingdom. Registered in England & Wales, No.: 03041197. Currencies Direct Ltd is

Ave 5 de Outubro, No 246, Almancil, 8135-103 +351 289 395 739 algarve@currenciesdirect.com

authorised by the Financial Conduct Authority as an Electronic Money Institution under the Electronic Money Regulations 2011. Our FCA Firm Reference number is 900669.

Our EU services are provided by Currencies Direct Spain. © Currencies Direct Spain, E.D.E., S.L., Avenida del Mediterráneo, 341, 04638 Mojácar, Almería, Spain. Registered in the Commercial Registry of Almería under the Spanish tax ID number B04897930. Currencies Direct Spain, E.D.E., S.L. is authorised by the Bank of Spain as an Electronic Money Institution under Law 21/2011 of 26 July and Royal Decree 778/2012 of 4 May. Our registration number with the Bank of Spain is 6716.

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ADVICE PLUS

YOUR money

I am shortly moving to a smaller house here in the Algarve and plan to sell off a considerable amount of furniture and paintings. Surely the monies I realise are not taxable?

The sale of these items is not taxable, providing this is not a recurrent situation or a business activity. If you are just selling the contents of a property, you can do so without any tax implication. If you are selling the property itself, you need to detail the furniture or equipment to be sold, then the capital gains will be levied only on the property sale price, and exclude the other items. However, if you intend to continue selling items such as you described – furniture and household goods – and if you choose to attend fairs and markets to do this, you are required to register your activity with the tax authorities and pay tax and VAT on the profits.

The tax regime of second-hand items allows you to pay the VAT just on the margin you make.

Email your finance questions for Ricardo to martin@algar veplusmagazine.com for inclusion in the f ir st available is sue of A lgar ve P LU S .

To c o n s u l t d i r e c t l y w i t h R i c a r d o C h a v e s , e m a i l r i c a r d o @ a l l f i n a n c e m a t t e r s . p t

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Is it usual when one hires a handyman – in my case someone to paint the house – that when it comes to paying the bill, hundreds of euros, and I mean very many hundreds, were added on for materials and equiment including paint trays, brushes, rollers etc.

This had not been discussed originally, I had just been giving a flat price, handwritten on a piece of paper. The guy got very aggressive when I questioned these extras and I paid up only because I was nervous about what he might do. What is the right and wrong, and what path should I have taken?

If you require a service, then you should make sure you have a contract, or that the quote that was provided by the supplier includes all the details of the service and materials to be used.

When there is a conflict, you can always contact the Arbitration Centre in your area. All businesses should be registered and this form of administration of justice can be used every time a conflict is registered.

As mentioned before, we cannot offer any legal advice; in situations like this, you should talk to a registered lawyer or solicitor.

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Is the Golden Visa still available? If yes, what are the conditions, and what are the benefits? I am considering buying a property on the Algarve, for circa €1.5m, and looking at what is available now.

I’d like to have all my plans in place by the end of the summer.

The Golden Visa is a residency programme based on investment, and although there have been some changes recently, it is still available. Providing you make an investment in Portugal, you will get a five-year residence by investment permit for non-EU nationals. This permit gives the right to live, work, and study in Portugal, and allows free circulation in Europe’s Schengen Area.

The new regulations of the programme restrict and specify the areas for real estate investment within Portugal, and also make investment options more expensive. The changes took effect on 1 January 2022.

Currently, you can acquire residency by investing €350,000 in a Rehabilitation Project, available only in residential renovation projects in designated interior areas. The investment amount is reduced to €280,000 if the property you are considering is located in an interior and low-density area.

Or you can make an investment of €500,000 or more in residential property located in designated interior areas, which can be reduced to €400,000 if the property is located in an interior area that is also low-density.

In addition, there is a hybrid investment, which means that you can invest €280,000 or €€350,000 in a touristic project that grants guaranteed annual returns and/or guaranteed buyback at the same price as invested.

You can also make an investment in Private Equity Funds. This implies an investment of €500,000 in closedend funds regulated by Portuguese Securities Market Commission (CMVM) with a diversified portfolio of yielding real estate or other assets.

Or you can choose to invest in commercial real estate; providing you invest from€€500,000, this can be anywhere in Portugal including the Algarve. Investment is reduced to €400,000 if located in a classified low-density area, €350,000 in the case of a renovation project, or €280,000 if located in a low-density area.

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R I C A R D O C H AV E S I S O N T H E P LU S T E A M A N D A N S W E R S Y O U R Q U E S T I O N S O N T H E I S S U E S T H AT A F F E C T Y O U R LIFESTYLE HERE. THIS MONTH, HE EXPLAINS THE A D VA N TA G E S O F G O I N G F O R G O L D , B U Y I N G I N S E R V I C E S , A N D S E L L I N G U N WA N T E D P O S S E S S I O N S

Fill up your cart, and click deliver!

HIGH QUALIT Y PRE-LOVED FURNITURE

Kit and Caboodle are making life easy for customers with our new on-line store and delivery service, simply choose the items that you want, add to your cart and request delivery.

The delivery charges are cheaper and easier than

ADD TO CART ADD TO CART

arranging your own transport and it’s a one-off fee regardless of how many items you buy. For Loulé to Faro postcodes the delivery is just €15. Albufeira, Olhão, São Brás €20 and even far away places such as Alcoutim, and ADD TO CART

Vila do Bispo it’s still only €60!

Don’t need the delivery service? you can collect from our Almancil warehouse. What are you waiting for? get ordering!

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Website: 24/7 www.kitandcaboodle.com Warehouse: Mon-Fri 10am to 5.30pm, Sat 10am to 1pm with oodles of ideas

High quality pre-loved and upcycled furniture plus gift centre Browse: www.kitandcaboodle.pt Chat: 00 351 289 394 257 Email: sales@kitandcaboodle.pt Visit: Almancil, next door to Algarve Express

EXCHANGE PLUS

Prolonged GBP/EUR volatility WITH TENSIONS BETWEEN UKR AINE A N D R U S S I A C AU S I N G P O L I T I C A L R I F TS A S W E L L A S U N S TA B L E C O M M O D I T Y DY N A M I C S , T H E P O U N D – E U R O E XC H A N G E R AT E H A S E X P E R I E N C E D S O M E D R A M AT I C S W I N G S I N M OV E M E N T I N R EC E N T W E E K S . J O S É A L M E I DA E X P L A I N S

more times this year. This divergence in monetary policy between the Fed and the other two central banks could act as a drag on their respective currencies going forward.

Protecting your money from future volatility

Central bank policy Before the outbreak of the war, most central banks had been expected to tighten monetary policy in the coming months, in an effort to tame soaring inflation. Even the European Central Bank (ECB), which hasn’t raised interest rates in over a decade, dropped some hints that a rate hike could come before the end of year.

However, the conflict has now upended these expectations. The Bank of England (BoE) delivered its third consecutive rate hike in March, but its dovish forward guidance cast doubts over future hikes, whilst also removing a key pillar of support for the pound.

Meanwhile, the ECB announced that it plans to wind down its Asset Purchase Programme (APP) a little earlier than previously expected, but appeared to take back some of its comments regarding the possibility of raising interest rates this year, much to the chagrin of EUR investors.

On the other hand, while it delivered only a halfpercentage increase in interest rates last month, the Federal Reserve has signalled it will hike rates up to six

As demonstrated by recent events, exchange rates are susceptible to all manner of external factors. Helpfully, there are several things you can do to minimise the impact on your finances.

At Currencies Direct, two of our most popular products in times of uncertain currency movements include forward contracts and limit orders: A forward contract allows you to fix the current exchange rate for up to a year, in return for a small deposit.

You place the contract when the rate is favourable, and even if the currency deteriorates subsequently, your exchange rate will stay the same.

Limit orders involve setting a target exchange rate. If the desired rate becomes available, we transact the exchange.

Currency Direct has helped over 325,000 individuals and businesses move money abroad since 1996. It has an ‘Excellent’ Trustscore on Trust Pilot, over 20 global offices, and a team of more than 500 currency experts.

For more detailed information , please contact the loc al of fice T: 2 8 9 3 9 5 7 3 9 or register at c u r r e n c i e s d i r e c t . c o m / p o r t u g a l to get regular updates on the currency markets , (u s e A l g a r v e P L U S m a g a z i n e a s t h e r e f e r e n c e) .

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While there have been reports of ‘constructive’ progress at peace talks between Russia and Ukraine, a ceasefire still appears some way off. Any further progress in talks also looks to be in doubt, following the emergence of evidence that Russian troops committed atrocities in areas they previously held around Kyiv.

This could act as a key headwind for the euro, and see it relinquish some of the gains it has made. It’s also possible that Western powers may impose further sanctions, which could inject fresh volatility into the GBP/EUR exchange rate.

Given the high degree of uncertainty that surrounds the conflict, it’s hard to precisely estimate the direction in which the pound and euro will move, but it’s safe to assume the pairing will continue to trade erratically in the near-term.

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Negotiations, sanctions and the direction GBP/ EUR may take in the future

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INCE RUSSIA invaded Ukraine on 24 February, currency dynamics have been erratic. Initially, both the pound and the euro plummeted against counterparts, as forex traders flocked to safe-haven assets such as the US dollar.

In the immediate aftermath of the invasion, and the subsequent imposition of sanctions by western powers on Russia, the GBP/EUR exchange rate spiked, with EUR investors particularly unsettled by the Eurozone economy’s vulnerability to the conflict in Ukraine.

This initial uptick in GBP/EUR faded through March, but the pairing has been marked by bouts of volatility, usually in response to conflicting reports over the progress being made in peace talks.

Elsewhere, sterling has been hampered by a bleak outlook for UK consumer spending. GBP investors fear the war in Ukraine could exacerbate the UK’s cost-ofliving crisis, with energy and food prices being driven higher by the conflict.

DATELINE PLUS

THE agenda T H I S M O N T H ’ S S P E C I A L S E L E C T I O N O F T H I N G S WO R T H S E E I N G

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MAGDALENA MOREY

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Tavira d’Artes, Tavira 962 012 111 taviradartes@gmail.com taviradartes.com On now

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Acrylic and gold leaf on canvas, 100x100cm

TERESA PAULINO

PEDRO GUIMARÃES

Alsakia, Quarteira 914 145 199 teresapaulino@gmail.com Until 31 May, 10:00-18:00

ArtCatto at the Conrad 289 419 447 info@artcatto.com artcatto.com On now

A collection of watercolours by the famous local sculptor/artist.

Imagine. Acrylic and cardboard with lights.

170x190cm

CRISTINA TROUFA If You Could See Me Now Fresco Gallery, Almancil 911 765 566 art@fresco.gallery fresco.gallery On now, until early June A Montanha. Acrylic on canvas. 100x80cm

QUINTA ART COLLECTIVE Quinta da Tôr, Loulé, 968 427 271 5 to 8 May, 11:00–18:00 Wine tasting and art outdoors – paintings, drawings, sculpture and mosaic pieces in the courtyard of the winery. Members of the Quinta Collective – Jessica Dunn, Jane Rodenburg, Tracy Carson and Andrea M Bird will welcome you.

IF YOU HAVE ANYTHING YOU WOULD LIKE TO SHARE EMAIL susi@algarveplusmagazine.com

DATELINE PLUS

THE agenda Boat Show International

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Vilamoura Marina, 11–19 June Celebrating the 25th edition of this key event that attracts a global audience, Vilamoura’s marina is the largest in the country with 825 berths, a fully equipped and functional shipyard, and a professional sailing training centre. It hosts internationally renowned sailing events, deep sea fishing, windsurfing, jet-skiing, parasailing, diving, cruises and boat trips. The annual Boat Show, on land and sea, brings together all types of boats with accessory brands, equipment, and integrated services. It’s not just the boating fraternity who have this show in their diaries – residents and holidaymakers, too, regard it as a great day out. vilamouraboatshow.fil.pt

E V E N T S If you missed the incredible journey O REGRESSO DA MÃE SOBERANA, when the statue of our Lady, the patroness of Loulé returns to her home in the dome-shaped hilltop Nossa Senhora da Piedade, plan to be there next year. She is brought down to the Loulé’s São Fransisco church in the ‘small’ festival on Easter Sunday, and returns 15 days later, accompanied by very many thousands of followers, in what is regarded as the greatest religious festival south of Fátima. The gigantic effort of the men who carry the Virgin, despite the adversities of the terrain, the weight of the palanquin and sometimes adverse weather conditions, is remarkable.

Music, handkerchief waving and fireworks add to a truly amazing experience.

PARTY TIME – ZECA STYLE Museu do Traje São Brás de Alportel 20 May At the Algarve Motown live music event at the museum, Zeca will be serving up his street food specialities, including burritos, tacos and nachos. It will be a great evening. If you fancy impressing friends at home with a perfect paella, get in touch with the man and his food truck.

962 587 683 / zecasstreetfood@gmail.com

COFFEE BREAK The revamped Café Fresco, beside the gallery in Almancil, is now open. Iced coffee highly recommended.

IF YOU HAVE ANYTHING YOU WOULD LIKE TO SHARE EMAIL susi@algarveplusmagazine.com

CHECK OUT THE CONCERT PROGRAMMES PLANNED AT LOULÉ: cineteatro.cm-loule.pt TAVIRA: fadocomhistoria.com FARO: teatrolethes.com; teatrodasfiguras.pt

W O R K S H O P S

M U S I C

HOLGER GROSSCHOPP, piano ADELE BITTER, violin Amigos de Música Os Agostas, Santa Bárbara 24 and 26 May

ECO PRINTING

The AMIGOS DE MÚSICA is an international group of around 120 members who stage musical activities by internationally renowned musicians and also sponsor young Portuguese musicians. It is a non-profit organisation and is celebrating its 30th anniversary this year.

In the first of their two concerts, Berliners Holger and Adele will play compositions by Beethoven, Granados and Boulnois; in the second it will be Bach, de Freitas Branco, Chopin and Franck.

For information and to book, email reservasconcerto@gmail.com

República 14, Olhão reservas@re-criativarepublica14.pt Book by email, stating which performance and time, and to check ticket prices.

6 May Marco Oliveira – singer, poet and composer with roots in fado – in an intimate concert, along with José Peixoto on the guitar, with songs chosen from Marco’s three studio albums: Retrato, Amor é Água que Corre and Ruas and Memórias. Two concerts: 19:00 and 21:30.

20 May Bernardo Couto and Bernardo Saldanha – on the Portuguese guitar and the fado viola respectively, with an original repertoire that Couto composed in the ‘language’ of fadistas from Lisbon, to express the instrument’s heritage.

Concert starts 21:00.

27 May Emmy Curl – the alter ego of Catarina Miranda, born in Trás-os-Montes at the dawn of the 90s – is an artist linked to music and the visual arts. 15 Years is the name of her new work, a collection that shows the best of that period and to which she adds a new theme.

Concert starts 21:00.

CHOCOLATE TREATS Coreto Hostel, Loulé 966 660 943 loulecoreto.reservas@ gmail.com 21 May Learn to make chocolate bars, tempering dark, milk and white chocolate, combining the sweetness with the dried fruits of the Algarve. All the materials are included, as well as the recipe book, certificate and, at the end, the participants make their own origami box to take home with them. Email for details of this new Loulé Criativo activity.

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A Loulé Criativo initiative, in partnership with GadjoDilo.

Ecoprinting is a natural dyeing technique through printing that uses natural and organic materials such as leaves, flowers, roots and minerals.

Participants can choose to work with a silk shawl, an organic T-shirt or a cloth bag. This could be the start of a new wardrobe! Email for details, dates and costs.

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Casa do Artesão de Alte 910 084 192 casadoartesao.alte@gmail.com

LAST WORD PLUS

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finally

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H E ’ S B E E N T H E R E , D O N E I T – O R R AT H E R H A D I T D O N E – A N D I S N U R S I N G H I S N E W K N E E AT H O M E . A S A N T H O N Y M A R T I N H O B B L E S A R O U N D T H E H O U S E , C R U T C H E S AT T H E R E A D Y, H E ’ S LO S T F O R WO R D S A S B O R E D O M I S S E T T I N G I N

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REALLY COULDN’T resist it. As I woke from the anaesthetic and looked down at the throbbing bandage-swaddled object that I used to call my right leg, I mumbled through cracked lips. “What’s a nice joint like you doing in a guy like this,” expecting this gem to be greeted with tears of joy and laughter from my loving family who were gathered around my bed, awaiting my return to the land of the conscious. Except of course, they weren’t. All I had was a bemused “Qué?” from a mop-wielding, green-smocked staff member negotiating her way through drips and drainage tubes. What a waste of a great line – I now have to save it for when the new left knee is fitted when I may, with a bit of luck, have a more appreciative audience who will also understand the hoary old “Does it hurt? No, only when I laugh” line.

As a result of my enforced hospital stay and subsequent house arrest limiting me to the ground floor of my home, I haven’t been anywhere or seen anything for the past few weeks, which really puts the kibosh on this page. I have also, due to permanent discomfort, become anti-social, and cancelled seeing friends.

So, what to talk about this month, as the page must be filled? What with out-and-about being a non-starter, entertaining off the menu, and partygate in Westminster becoming increasingly boring, what is left for this crutch-wielding scribbler?

Not much. Writing advice states: “Write about what you know” but I don’t think you want to know that the highlight of my day arrives exactly at midnight when the new Wordle is published, and five minutes after that come the only other times of the day to look forward to, which are two sets of exercises and constant icing of the knee. Even Netflix has become a pain in the backside because you can spend as much time scrolling through films to watch as actually watching one.

So how have I relieved the boredom? Somehow, when we built the house, a void was formed between two

rooms, one and a half meters by one meter and floor to ceiling in height. No one knows how it got there but it did, so we put a door on it and called it the ‘storage cupboard’ and, being on the direct route between my sofa and a bathroom, it is passed, particularly of late, on a very regular basis. Actually, it’s always passed but rarely opened, and rarely opened because no one knows what’s in there. It’s full to the ceiling with “what shall we do with these – I dunno, put them in the storage cupboard”. This started in 1988, and now, with time on my hands, I can explore its secrets.

Did you know that I own a telescope? Not a piddly toy telescope, but a serious reflecting telescope that is mounted on its own heavy-duty tripod? You didn’t know?

Neither did I. Nor did I remember that I have a drone, an electric keyboard, an angle grinder, four – yes, four – tool chests, a fishing rod (unused), three sections of plastic drainpipes containing silkscreen prints that we had hanging in the 70s, two hammer drills, three portfolio cases and a box containing approximately 40 plug sockets and light switches. Not to mention the countless tubes of solidified silicon sealant and, strangely enough, one single crutch.

And I have yet to get to the back of my Aladdin’s Cave, yet alone the garage, which I could well leave to the next generation of Martins to sort out.

Why, why do I do it? Is it in the genes? I remember as a small boy, one of my favourite pastimes was rooting through my father’s ‘man drawer’, a drawer in his wardrobe full of odds and sods and bits and pieces that he couldn’t throw away. “What’s this for, Dad?” I would say, holding up a strangely twisted piece of metal. “Don’t know, son” he would say “but it may come in use one day”. I know the feeling, and it’s definitely time to have a clear out, not only because it’s overdue but very soon I shall have to find the room for a raised toilet seat, bath seat, walking frame and two crutches. For they, too, may come in handy some day.

On Netflix you can spend as much time scrolling through films as actually watching one