There’s something pretty wonderful about the ending of summer. Cooler days, although shorter, encourage outings away from the beach –to lesser-known villages where life goes on as it has for many a decade, to galleries and specialist exhibitions that were too hot to handle a few months ago, to those little home-from-home stay-aways where the welcome is overwhelming, and the luxury hotels dressed to impress.
It’s time to travel – right here in Portugal – and there is so much to see that cannot fail to fascinate. Old cities with an amazing history but a modern-day culture, ancient ruins that tell of bygone civilisations, wild countryside with spectacular views that are nature’s best.
There are concerts and theatre performances, dance spectaculars, festivals big and small, which introduce local traditions. There are more markets across the Algarve, from the bustling colourful gypsy markets to the antique and bric-a-brac gatherings. And local farmers’ markets and fish markets are also worth the visit. Just take a big bag with you for those irresistible purchases.
And what about eating out? It is so much more enjoyable when the temperatures drop a little and all those dishes that seem a challenge when the temperatures reach 30°C+ delight the tastebuds now. Try specialities, always made with the freshest ingredients and herbs plucked straight from the garden.
This month, take time out to investigate the local charities and how you can get involved in their work; you’ll be busier now than ever getting ready for the autumn.
At Kit & Caboodle (Almancil and Alcantarilha) you’ll find Annie Sloane’s Scandinavian Stencil kit, which features an exclusive folk-floral stencil design and two best-selling Chalk Paint™ shades: Svenska Blue and Scandinavian Pink. Use it on everything from furniture and fabric to flooring, and small items like trays. €35. kitandcaboodle.pt
COVER: Fresh fruit and veg. Farmers’ Market, or growing your own. Best flavours every time, all year round.
Have-to-haves. Colourful seagrass baskets in various designs and sizes, from Martina in Loulé, at Rua José Fernandes Guerreiro 39. €12–€135.
martina-loule.com
FRONT
Pink, pretty, and the sort of kitchen accessory you won’t believe you lived without before.
Smeg’s Milk Frother, from Simple Taste in Almancil and Albufeira, €189. Lots of other colours, too. And available online. simpletaste.pt
For the best apple pie ever, you need to head for Bean 17 coffee and more by the side of Loulé municipal market. Ilona’s baking is supreme. facebook.com/ bean17coffee
Quacking good fun. Duck lamps, 100% waterproof, remote controlled, LED and with eight hours of autonomy, they can even sit on the pool. From Ideko, in Almancil, instagram.com/ideko.conceptstore/
Portuguese brand Torres Novas debuts its first set of table linens. 100% cotton, in soft stripes of pink, green, blue or beige with white, there are tablecloths in three sizes, runners, napkins and cocktail napkins. And, a great touch... they can be personalised with a name or initials. torresnovas1845.com On the side. A
The Turner Table Lamp by Covet House was inspired by the electrifying and memorable dance moves of the iconic pop singer. 60cm high, it is handmade in brass and aluminium, the body has a gold plated finish, while the shade is lacquered. It is simply ‘The Best’. POA. covethouse.eu
Shortie cardigan in khaki, with a round neck, long sleeves, deep ribbed edging and covered buttons. S-XL, from Zara, €22.95. zara.com/pt/en/
Fur Shampoo, by Loulé-based Andorinha Algarve Soap and Beauty, will keep your fourlegged friends feeling – and smelling – great. €14.50. And do check out the brilliant organic skincare range that Andorinha has created for us humans – everything from Cleansing Oil to Face Mist. andorinhaalgarve.com/
From Massimo Dutti comes Sabrina, these nifty little side-buckled pumps in animal-printed sheepskin, with leather-finished interior. Apart from looking great, there’s an AIRFIT® insole, a flexible technical foam insole, designed to provide greater comfort. €89.95. massimodutti.com
TAVIRA - OLHÃO - LOULÉ - LAGOS
In the nick of time
THE FINAL WALK. NICK ROBINSON HAD A SMALL SECTION LEFT OF HIS TRANS-ALGARVE WALKING ODYSSEY TO COMPLETE, BUT WAS ALREADY THINKING ABOUT HIS NEXT ADVENTURE AND REVISITING SOME OF HIS FAVOURITE PLACES
IT WAS ALL set to be an exciting day. My work colleagues Nick and Duarte were joining me. Better still, Lucy from Ocean Blue Portugal had agreed to put us up for the night in Burgau and was keen to join us for the walk the next day.
We arrived in Burgau on a typically hot Algarvian evening and I did some preparatory filming for a Burgau video (which for a small town, did surprisingly well later on YouTube).
At the last minute, Lucy had to dump us in her massive caravan as their luxury accommodation was fully booked. We didn’t mind and all bunked down after wolfing delicious portions of pizza and beer in the village.
The next day dawned slightly cloudy, and five of us pushed out from Salema on foot, thanking our lucky stars that it wasn’t going to be too hot. Lucy and her friend, Natasha, led us along the beach and we just clinched it before the tide came in. It was easy going along Praia Figueira and Praia das Furnas before we had to turn into the cliffs and ascend the rocky, gravelly sections ahead.
Normally, as you walk along the Algarve, you’re spoilt for choice as cafés, restaurants and food stops litter the route. Not so much down in this neck of the woods. We came across our first potential café at Zavial and found it to be closed (or only opening much later for lunch). We pushed on to Ingrina and there were absolutely no signs of life in their beachside café either.
We were a little early in the season and it was too early in the morning, so we shared out a few jelly babies, drank our own water and pushed on over majestic cliffs with stunning sea views sweeping out from beneath our feet. I stopped for a while and
unleashed my drone in order to capture some aerial footage as two surfers lazily carved artistic arcs in the waves below. It was beautiful to watch.
It was still warm, but overcast, as we crested a rise and Martinhal Resort popped into view. I had stayed there a few years ago, both with the family and with a friend, whilst we filmed Sagres and Aljezur videos. It was lovely to be back and we sauntered past the pool area, which was by now filled with families enjoying their early summer holidays.
We had put in 17km of walking so far and the crew seemed very keen on an early lunch. We settled into Restaurant Martinhal just off the sand. Prawns, calamari, burgers and coffees came rolling out of the kitchen in no time and we were feeling satisfied and satiated. Life was good and I was ready to push on into the centre of Sagres to complete the mission.
I was met with glum stares. No one was really keen on the last three kilometres into Sagres itself. I shrugged and this was good enough. Walking from the Spanish border all the way to Martinhal Beach was a great effort and definitely good enough in my book. If you’d like to see the whole playlist of videos it’s all on my Algarve Addicts YouTube channel.
So what next? I entertained thoughts of e-biking the Via Algarviana from Cape St Vincent back to Spain; I thought about completing my series on the border castles of Portugal; I thought about revisiting all the towns in the Algarve region for a second time, but I settled on covering some of the smaller towns in the Eastern Algarve, like Fuseta and Santa Luzia, and paddling around Tavira Island.
However, I needed to get back to serving people up with some good solid info, so I’m currently covering the Algarve train line and it’s going really well! Maybe I’ll tell you about that next month...
WE EMBARK ON A 72HOUR JOURNEY THROUGH THE ALGARVE ’ S HIDDEN HILLTOP TREASURES— QUERENÇA, CACHOPO AND AMEIXIAL. THESE THREE VILLAGES, EACH WITH ITS UNIQUE HISTORY, CULTURAL FESTIVALS AND LOCAL OFFERINGS, PROVIDE A CAPTIVATING BACKDROP FOR A SHORT BUT MEMORABLE ROAD TRIP
Words: KAYLA MEIRINHO
OUT TRIPPING
MARIANA CARRIÇO, SUL INFORMAÇÃO
CACHOPO
With origins tracing back to Roman times, Cachopo is a place where history isn’t just in the past—it’s woven into daily life. This village, with fewer than 1,000 residents, offers a peaceful retreat where you can experience the true essence of rural Algarve. Here, life moves at a slower pace, and the strong mountain identity is evident in the local traditions, like weaving, basketry, and cork production.
Cachopo’s cork industry is vital to the local economy. Picture Cork Oaks dotting the landscape, harvested every nine years to yield a renewable resource. The process, done entirely by hand, ensures the tree isn’t harmed, allowing a new layer to grow. It’s a beautiful example of sustainable practices and a deep connection between the land and its people.
Notable Landmarks and Activities
Núcleo Museológico de Cachopo: Step back in time at this museum, where you can explore traditional crafts and the rural lifestyle that has shaped Cachopo for centuries.
Estação da Biodiversidade do Cachopo: A hiker’s paradise! Explore the diverse flora and fauna of the region as you wander through this biodiverse area.
Piscina Cachopo / Fonte Férrea: Need a cool down? This quiet aquatic centre, nestled in the mountains, is a serene spot for swimming and picnicking. Don’t forget to stop by the on-site café.
Igreja de Cachopo: Visit the historic Church of Santo Estevão, dating back to 1535. This site was once a place of pilgrimage and remains a significant part of the village’s heritage.
Moinho Branco de Cachopo: Explore the surrounding hills to discover traditional mountain architecture, including old windmills and community ovens, now mostly in ruins or converted into houses.
Miradouro de Cachopo: For breathtaking views over the Caldeirão mountain range, this lookout point is a must-visit.
Places to Eat
Restaurante A Charrua: Cosy up in this countryside restaurant, offering affordable, home-cooked meals. Their wild boar dishes
Cachopo: far left: Irene Gonçalves of Restaurante A Charrua; left: wading in the waters. Main picture: the centre of the village with its beautiful church; above: one of Cachopo’s many windmills
are a highlight, and the egg pudding dessert is not to be missed.
Restaurante Palmeiras: Enjoy a relaxing coffee or beer on the vine-covered terrace of this charming village café. It’s a truly local experience, so make sure to have some cash on hand.
Retiro dos Caçadores: Restauração e Alojamento: A family-run restaurant known for its traditional dishes, like grilled lamb chops and pork cutlets. This spot is the social hub of Cachopo and offers a great chance to immerse yourself in local culture.
Local Festival
Festa de São Sebastião: Celebrated every January, this festival honors the town’s patron saint with lively processions, traditional music, and dancing. Another significant event is the festival in honour of Saint Stephen, held at Largo dos Bombeiros, featuring music, folklore, and entertainment.
QUERENÇA
Querença is like stepping into a postcard, with its traditional whitewashed houses, cobbled streets, and rich cultural heritage. Imagine wandering through a village that dates back to the Moorish period, where every corner holds a piece of history. With
around 750 residents, this quaint village is also home to the Algarve’s largest aquifer, the Querença-Silves, making water a central part of its identity.
Historically, the villagers relied on lime processing and agriculture, utilising the abundant water sources through mills and waterways. You’ll find local products like fig brandy, cane basketry, and the famous chouriço sausage that will delight the senses. The landscape here is a mix of sandstone, marl, and limestone, giving Querença its unique character.
As you explore, don’t miss the ancient olive trees, some over 1,300 years old. One of these giants can be found along the Manuel Gomes Guerreiro Eco-Botanical Trail, and another stands proudly by the chapel of Nossa Senhora do Pé da Cruz, tying the present to a deep-rooted past.
Notable Landmarks and Activities
Polo Museológico da Água: Dive into the village’s history at this small museum, dedicated to Querença’s long-standing relationship with water. It’s the perfect starting point for exploring the town’s waterrelated walking routes.
Fonte da Benémola: If you’re a nature lover, this serene park is a must. Spanning
392 hectares, it’s ideal for hiking and birdwatching. Picture yourself enjoying a peaceful picnic by the clear waters of the Menalva stream, surrounded by rich biodiversity.
Fonte Filipe: Another great picnic spot, complete with BBQ areas, tables, and fresh water from the source—perfect for a refreshing drink after a hike.
Igreja de Nossa Senhora da Assunção: This 16th-century church is a hidden gem for architecture enthusiasts. The late-Gothic style and intricate interior decorations offer a glimpse into Querença’s religious heritage.
Fundação Manuel Viegas Guerreiro: A cultural hub hosting art exhibitions, literary festivals, and more. It’s also home to the Centre for Algarve Studies, making it a great stop for those interested in the region’s history and culture.
Places to Eat
Casa do Pasto: A relaxed spot to savour traditional Algarvean cuisine, perfect for unwinding after a day exploring. The game of foosball adds a fun twist!
Sol e Serra: Enjoy homemade dishes and friendly service at this charming eatery. The outdoor patio is a lovely place to soak in the mountain air while sampling dishes like
alheira balls and black pork loin kebabs, and artisan ice cream for dessert.
Restaurante de Querença: Perched on a hilltop, this restaurant offers breathtaking views and hearty Portuguese fare like pork cheeks and monkfish with prawn rice. The cosy atmosphere, complete with a log fireplace, makes it a perfect evening stop.
Local Festival
Festa das Chouriças: Held every January, this lively festival celebrates the village’s sausage-making tradition.
Imagine the aroma of grilled chouriço filling the air as you explore a market showcasing regional products and enjoy street entertainment. The festival wraps up with a solemn mass, a procession, and an evening dance—truly a perfect glimpse into local culture.
AMEIXIAL
Perched at the crossroads between the northern Algarve and southern Alentejo, Ameixial is a village steeped in history. Imagine walking the same paths where battles were fought during the Portuguese Restoration War. This village, lying along the scenic National Road 2, has been a vital stopover for travellers for centuries.
Archaeological finds suggest that Ameixial has been inhabited since the Neolithic period, with ancient communities leaving behind traces like the enigmatic
Writing of the Southwest.
In 2008, the ESTELA Project uncovered new archaeological sites, including a necropolis where the Corte Pinheiro stele was found, emphasising Ameixial’s significance in the study of this mysterious writing system. It’s like walking through a living history book!
Notable Landmarks and Activities
Igreja Matriz do Ameixial: Dating back to at least the 17th century, this church is dedicated to Santo António. The architecture reflects the historical changes it has undergone, including damage from the 1755 earthquake.
Fonte da Seiceira: Perfect for a picnic! This popular spot also hosts the traditional Festa da Seiceira. You can take a dip in the spring-fed pool, relax in shaded areas equipped with BBQ grills, and savour local delicacies at the nearby bar, known for its fresh sardines and daily specials.
Anta do Beringel and Anta da Pedra do Alagar: These prehistoric megalithic monuments, dating back approximately 7,000 years, are key archaeological sites in Ameixial. Recent excavations have provided deeper insights into the ancient human occupation of the area.
Cortelha Motocross Circuit: For something a bit different, check out the motocross track just outside Ameixial. Watch bikes race across the landscape,
with plenty of opportunities to explore the paddock area and enjoy a relaxed day out. Miradouro do Caldeirão: This picturesque lookout point along the N2 is perfect for a picnic or a moment of relaxation while taking in the breathtaking views. The site also features swings, making it a fun stop for families and travellers alike.
Places to Eat
Café Central da Serra: A family-run gem, this café is beloved for its fantastic food, friendly service, and excellent value for money. The cosy atmosphere and welcoming locals make it a must-visit spot.
Bar da Fonte: Situated along the RN2, this charming bar offers a perfect spot for a relaxed meal under the shade of trees, overlooking a pond and fountain. The smoked local ham and cheese platter is a particular favourite among visitors.
Local Festival
Festival de Caminhadas de Ameixial: Held every April, this hiking festival is a must for outdoor enthusiasts. It’s not just about walking – it’s about connecting with the region’s natural and cultural heritage. With over 50 activities, this festival celebrates sustainable development, tradition, and the natural beauty of the area. Expect guided walks, workshops, and an opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture.
Opposite page, top left clockwise: local chorizo cooking at Querença’s annual festival; a village house in Ameixal; fresh water flowing in Fonte de Benémola; the village church in the square in Querença. This page: Sit beside this old tree walk, and enjoy the view of the countyside around Querença
Honey, I bought a ruin! Building on rustic land…
PWHO DOES NOT DREAM OF LIVING IN AN OLD FARMSTEAD IN THE MIDDLE OF A MYSTERIOUS FOREST OR THE QUIET COUNTRYSIDE? OR MAYBE YOU FANCY THE IDEA OF BUYING AN OLD OLIVE FARM AND TURNING THE LAND INTO YOUR OWN OFF-GRID LIVING AREA? THESE DREAMS CAN BECOME REALITY, BUT ONLY A FEW GRASP THE CHALLENGES. SAYS ROB DOES
ORTUGAL is not the Wild West country it used to be. It has turned into a modern European nation, with some of the strictest planning laws in Europe, which have been introduced to ensure sustainable development and to protect green areas.
Here, there are two types of land (simplifying here a bit): Rústico and Urbano. On the first type, Rústico, you can only build barns and such, no living quarters. You can get rustic electricity, which is on a pole on the land but no domestic electricity or domestic water. Due to this, rustic land is many times cheaper than the second type, Urbano, where you can build a house. The reclassification of rustic land to urban land is difficult but with new laws coming in effect this year, the process has been simplified.
So, let’s live in a tent then…
Land that doesn’t have ruins or existing property is likely to be classified as rustic, which means you can’t build on it. Contrary to popular belief, loose or detachable buildings are also not permitted. So, prefabricated buildings such as wooden houses, mobile homes, containers, tents, igloos, yurts and other similar solutions, regardless of their demountable or removable nature, are considered to be houses if they are intended for human use; as such, they will need a habitation license and are subject to council control.
Which brings us to the famous 1951 rule: the foundation for many building agreements. It specifies that if the home was built before August 1951 (and did not have any additions built after that date) then the home only requires a certificate to be on record with the local municipality that states it is a home meant for dwelling and that it was built before the habitation certificate was required.
It is vital that buyers approaching the prospect of purchasing and restoring a ruin in Portugal do so with a realistic mindset
In this case, no habitation license is required. In general, it is possible to sell a building constructed before August 1951, where only maintenance work has been carried out, without a Usage Authorisation Permit, provided no reconstruction, expansion, or significant alteration work has been undertaken that would significantly modify the building’s characteristics.
So a ruin can be changed into a house?
Older buildings will always require a prior evaluation (licensing/legalisation, including architectural details) before serious changes can be made. A habitation license cannot be obtained without this. This license gives the individual the right to use and transact with the property once it has been issued.
As a result, it is vital that buyers approach the prospect of purchasing and restoring ruins in Portugal with a realistic mindset. The allure of low land prices must be balanced with a clear understanding of the mountain of regulatory processes and timeframes. Restoring a ruin is possible, but you should be aware of the legal and bureaucratic obstacles involved.
Obtaining the necessary permits is in the heart of the matter, a process that can extend over several years. Furthermore, even after securing these permits, navigating the subsequent acquisition of habitation licenses can be a complex and timeconsuming process.
You can start living on the land while overseeing the works – a motorhome, tent, small wooden house, container, or other temporary structure are permissible on rustic or mixed land, but must be disassemblable in under 90 minutes. But before taking the plunge, always make sure you contract a lawyer to check the risks of the land and the property you are purchasing.
PORTUGUESE ARCHITECTURE – CLASSIC AND CONTEMPORARY – STANDS APART FROM THE REST OF EUROPE. MUCH LIKE ITS CUISINE, SIMPLICITY REIGNS SUPREME, WITH A MINIMALIST APPROACH THAT ACHIEVES AN IDEAL BALANCE BETWEEN FUNCTIONALITY AND AESTHETICS
Words: CHRISTINA MORENO
FTER THE CATASTROPHIC 1755 earthquake, Lisbon became a pioneer in disaster recovery and seismic-resistant architecture. The rebuilding of the city was led by Sebastião José de Carvalho e Melo, also known as Marquês de Pombal, along with his architectural team that included two military engineers.
Pombal aimed to re-launch Lisbon as a modern 18th-century city, one which was meticulously planned and resilient to future disasters. The rebuilding process included the innovative ‘Pombaline cage’ system, which used an internal wooden framework to allow buildings to flex during earthquakes without collapsing. The resulting architecture transformed Lisbon into a model of resilient design that has endured.
The aesthetic of azulejos and calçada
Portuguese architecture evolved through a diverse range of historical influences, showcasing a vibrant blend of cultural interactions. It began to gain prominence during the Age of Discoveries, particularly from 1700 onwards, aligning with the Baroque period and the emergence of the Pombaline style.
Historically, two iconic elements of Portuguese architecture are azulejos (decorative tiles) and calçada (cobblestones). Introduced during the Arab period, azulejos became widespread in the 18th century, transforming the façades of churches, palaces, and public buildings into vibrant displays of art. Meanwhile, the typical ‘calçada’ has added a distinctive character to the urban landscape. These features not only define Portugal’s architectural aesthetic but also highlight the country’s ability to blend historical tradition with modern innovation, creating spaces that resonate with both past and present.
The beginning of contemporary Portuguese architecture
In the 1950s, Portugal’s architectural identity emerged through a complex interplay of its geography and traditions, as well as the constraints of the prolonged authoritarian regime. This gave rise to a group of talented architects who maintained the country’s design integrity amid political repression.
The University of Porto became known internationally for its architecture programme through its luminaries like Fernando Távora, Álvaro Siza, and Eduardo Souto de Moura. Their distinctive ‘soft Portuguese style’ was characterised by sharp lines, clean design, and light colours – a harmonious mix of modernist sensibilities and regional influences.
Importantly, Portugal has been at the forefront of sustainable architecture, blending modern technologies with time-honoured, eco-friendly practices. Portuguese design has demonstrated a deep reverence for the environment, utilising local materials like schist and rammed earth. Today, this country continues to push the boundaries, embracing renewable energy sources, energy-efficient building components, and green roofs and walls to provide natural insulation, reduce carbon footprints and promote biodiversity.
A BUILDING A DREAM
FERNANDO TÁVORA
Fernando Távora is recognised as the founder of the Porto School of Architecture and served as a mentor to renowned architects Eduardo Souto de Moura and Álvaro Siza Vieira. His architectural journey was significantly enriched by a transformative world tour in 1960, made possible by a scholarship from the Gulbenkian Foundation that allowed him to engage directly with diverse cultures across the USA, Mexico, Japan, and several other countries.
Távora’s notable projects include the expansion of the Assembly of the Republic in Lisbon (1994-1999), the restoration of Freixo Palace in Porto (1995-2003), the Penafiel Municipal Museum, which was completed by his son José Bernardo Távora in 2009, and the extension of the Pousada Mosteiro de Guimarães, now a luxury hotel.
In recognition of his contributions, the Fernando Távora Prize was established in 2005 by the Ordem dos Arquitectos to honour his legacy in the field.
ÁLVARO SIZA VIEIRA (1933–
Álvaro Siza Vieira is considered Portugal’s most influential modern architect, and known for his modernist designs. Though initially aspiring to be a sculptor, which his father thought was too ‘bohemian’, Siza pursued architecture, graduating from the Porto Fine Arts School in 1949 at age 26. His multidisciplinary background as a painter and sculptor is reflected in the artistry of his buildings. Siza’s iconic projects include the Boa Nova Tea House, Serralves Museum of Contemporary Art in Porto, and the restoration of Lisbon’s fire-damaged Chiado neighbourhood.
Siza’s contributions have been recognised with numerous prestigious awards, such as the Pritzker Prize in 1992, the Mies van der Rohe Prize in 1988, and the Royal Institute of British Architects Gold Medal in 2009.
In 2014, Siza announced that he would be donating a significant portion of his architectural archive to the Canadian Centre for Architecture (CCA) in Montreal, Canada. He wanted to make his materials accessible alongside the works of other modern and contemporary architects.
This page: Eduardo Souto de Moura: The Braga Municipal Stadium and Paula Rego Museum.
Manuel Gomes da Costa: Tavira and Faro. Opposite page: John Mendes Ribeiro and Manuel Aires Mateus
EDUARDO SOUTO DE MOURA (1952
This prominent Portuguese architect is known for blending minimalism with vibrant colours and local materials. In 2011, he won the prestigious Pritzker Architecture Prize, praised for the “intelligence and seriousness” of his work, noted for its effortless and serene quality. Initially a sculpture student at the Porto Higher Institute of Fine Arts, he shifted to architecture after being convinced by minimalist artist Donald Judd that architecture was much more communal than being a lone sculptor. Souto de Moura initially collaborated with Álvaro Siza, a fellow Pritzker laureate, before founding his own firm in 1980.
One of the most notable works by Souto de Moura is the Casa das Histórias, also known as the Paula Rego Museum. Characterised by its bold red geometry and innovative use of natural light, the design incorporates elements of the surrounding landscape, creating a harmonious blend of architecture and environment, while serving as a vibrant cultural space in Cascais.
The University of Porto has consistently ranked among the world’s top architecture programmes, producing some of the most acclaimed designers of the modern era, including Pritzker Prize laureates Eduardo Souto de Moura and Álvaro Siza Vieira, as well as their mentor, Fernando Távora.
During the Portuguese regime, women architects were largely absent from the domestic architecture scene. Many women
MANUEL GOMES DA COSTA (1921–2016)
Manuel Gomes da Costa was a pivotal figure in modernist architecture in the Algarve. Over his career, he designed approximately 400 buildings, primarily in the eastern Sotavento area, including Vila Real de Santo António, Tavira, and Faro. Recognised for his extraordinary skill, Gomes da Costa’s architecture broke away from traditionalist norms, earning him numerous accolades and establishing him as a leading representative of modernist architecture. His legacy includes significant projects such as the Casa de Retiros and Colónia de Férias in Alcantarilha (1957-1962), the expansion of the Colégio da Senhora do Alto in Faro (19601965), and the Igreja de Santa Luzia in Tavira (1956-1958).
DID YOU KNOW...
architects, including Maria José Braga, left Portugal to work in the colonies, contributing to the development of colonial architecture. This exodus of talent and the lack of opportunities in Portugal led to a significant underrepresentation of women in the country’s architectural profession during this period.
Architecture was once an Olympic sport. From 1912 to 1952, the International
Olympic Committee awarded medals for artistic disciplines like music, painting, sculpture, literature, and architecture. Formal education is not the sole determinant of one's ability to excel in architecture. Surprisingly, some of the most renowned 20th century architects, including Frank Lloyd Wright, Le Corbusier and Tadao Ando, achieved greatness without formal architecture degrees.
JOHN MENDES RIBEIRO
An architect and educator, Ribeiro served as an assistant to Fernando Távora from 1991 to 1998. He currently teaches Design at the University of Coimbra, where he holds a PhD in Architecture with a focus on Theory and History. His diverse work spans architecture, scenography, heritage, and urban design, earning him several national and international awards.
One of his notable projects is the Montemor-o-Velho Tea House, a minimalist glass structure that harmoniously integrates the surrounding ruins and landscape, showcasing his ability to blend modern design with historical context. This design exemplifies his skill in merging contemporary architecture with historical settings.
MANUEL AIRES MATEUS (1963 –)
Along with his brother Francisco, he founded the architectural practice Aires Mateus in Lisbon in 1988. Influenced by notable Portuguese architects like Álvaro Siza and Gonçalo Byrne, their work is distinguished by a dynamic interplay of solid volumes and voids, emphasising the importance of both occupied and empty spaces.
The Aires Mateus brothers have garnered numerous national and international awards. Manuel was honoured as a Commander of the Order of Infante D. Henrique in 2006 and received the Pessoa Prize in 2017. Among their significant projects are private residences such as Casa de Alenquer (2001) and public buildings like the Rectory of Universidade Nova de Lisboa (2001) and the Sines Arts Centre (2000).
EXPLORE MORE
Want to dive a little deeper into the world of Portuguese Architecture? Check out the Architects Portugal. With gorgeous video, content and sound, this mini docu-series brings you bite-sized ‘innerviews’ with some of Portugal’s best creative architect minds. The series is hosted by Portobased architect, university professor Nuno Ladeiro, known for his minimalist aesthetic that emphasises rational forms and simplicity. You can get unlimited access to all content by signing up for a free account. You can also watch other series such as The Architecture of Sensations with Mário Martins.
VILHENA (1971–)
Vítor Vilhena is a distinguished Portuguese architect known for his ability to harmonise modern design with the rich cultural heritage of the Algarve. Vilhena’s designs are not only visually striking but also deeply connected to their surroundings, reflecting that thoughtful integration of landscape and structure. In 1999, two years after graduating from the University Lusíada in Lisbon, he founded his practice, Vítor Vilhena Architects. Among his notable works is the Casa em Messines, a striking all-white structure that harmonizes with its surroundings while offering stunning views from its rooftop pool. His portfolio also includes various refurbishment projects and residential buildings that reflect a commitment to sustainability and community integration. His contributions to the field have earned him prestigious accolades, including recognition in the Holcim Awards and the EU Mies van der Rohe Award, underscoring his significant impact on the architectural landscape. Through his work, Vilhena continues to make a lasting impression both locally and internationally.
MORE TO DISCOVER
Are you interested in architectural tours in the Algarve, including cities like Faro, Tavira, and Loulé? Visit former architecture and urban planning consultant Will Köhlen’s site. You can download the app to learn interesting facts to go on a self-guided tour or book a fascinating guided experience.
UPCOMING EVENTS: Explore Faro’s Modernist treasures during The Modernist Weekend, 8-10 November 2024. More information: architouralgarve.com/
JUTTA HOEHN (1966–
Born in a picturesque spa town in Germany, Jutta Hoehn’s passion for architecture was ignited by the town’s renowned style. In 1999, she was selected to lead the redesign of one of Algarve’s first five-star hotels, a project that deepened her love for Portugal’s landscape and the design possibilities. Recognising the opportunity to bring her unique style and expertise to the region, she settled here in the south and founded JSH Algarve. Her passion for exploring diverse architectural styles has refined her instinctive creative approach, resulting in both the inner and outer design of bespoke luxury homes that seamlessly integrate aesthetic appeal with functional elements, particularly in the Algarve’s ‘Golden Triangle.’
Hoehn’s projects, such as the award-winning Villatura in Quinta do Lago, showcase her commitment to high-quality construction and sustainability, which has always been a standard in her practice. This visionary architect skilfully incorporates eco-friendly elements, like cleverly concealed solar panels, to maintain the visual harmony of her designs. She emphasises that a well-crafted home typically takes three to four years to complete, with sustainability only occasionally constrained by clients’ budgets. Known for her meticulous attention to detail, Hoehn’s designs prioritise both elegance and practicality.
She also infuses each of her projects with distinctive and unexpected elements that reflect her eclectic style, often incorporating unique features, such as an antique door imported from Morocco that becomes a striking focal point, or a vibrant neon sign that adds a fun/modern twist. These personalised touches help to make each home truly unique.
Check out JSH’s display at Quinta Shopping.
FLY RIGHT
COMING TO THE ALGARVE FROM THE UK? WE ’ VE TAKEN A LOOK AT SOME OF THE BIGGEST COMPARISON SITES TO SEE THE RIGHT TIME TO BOOK SO THAT YOU OR YOUR GUESTS GET THE BEST DEALS, AND WHETHER THE MUCH TALKED ABOUT SPEEDY BOARDING SCHEME IS REALLY WORTH THE HYPE
words: LUCY MAYER
AFLIGHT TO THE Algarve’s only airport, Faro – or Gago Coutinho International Airport as it has now been renamed – is around three hours from London airports like Luton, Gatwick, Heathrow and Stanstead. The same goes for Dublin. If one is flying out of Edinburgh or Glasgow, it’s another 20 minutes. Expecting visitors? Share the following with them...
Skyscanner compares cheap flight prices from all of the major airlines and travel agents. The website says the best time to book a flight to the Algarve is 45 to 60 days in advance. TravelSupermarket.com says the further you book in advance, the more likely you are to bag a cheaper flight. Flights are obviously more cost-effective in the low season –November to February – but as the warm weather now lasts for much longer on the Algarve, going out of season for some winter sun is very appealing.
The fact that flights to the Algarve are in constant high demand keeps prices relatively competitive, but the school summer holiday months of July and August mean they will always rise then. Ryanair, easyJet and Wizz Air are some of the most popular airlines; a quick scan for the best prices as of August 2024 had flights with Ryanair listed for as little as £60 for a roundtrip, with easyJet advertising prices for £61 and Wizz Air at £97. However, a good deal heavily depends on the time of day that you are travelling; early morning flights can be much cheaper, while later flights on easyJet and Ryanair were advertised at £244 and £175 respectively for the same day that I looked at.
Next, it’s baggage. Airlines differ, but Faro Airport says travellers can expect to be able to take a single item onto the plane, but it must respect the weight and size restrictions at checkin. Hand luggage should contain only essential items and for those who are carrying medicines
and medical items like syringes for Diabetes, they may be asked to provide a medical certificate.
Speedy Boarding is a process unique to easyJet, but is it really of value? It’s only available for customers who have an easyJet Plus card, have bought Standard Plus or FLEXI fares, or paid to add a large cabin bag to their booking. It cannot be bought separately. It’s down to individual choice but Speedy Boarding may best serve those who are travelling at peak times when the plane is likely to be busier and you want first dibs on the overhead luggage holdall or getting settled into your seat, especially if you have little children with you.
Be aware
There are also certain caveats to bear in mind at the time of booking flights. It’s always necessary to check the individual terms and conditions –for example, easyJet tickets are non-refundable with only a few exceptions like Travel Restriction Protection, which gives you flight flexibility if there was a health crisis like another COVID-19 lockdown.
Spelling mistakes on bookings will be updated free of charge by this airline but making changes to bookings will cost you and is cheaper if you do it online rather than on the phone with an airline operator. A name change online will cost £55 while over the phone, it’s £60. Ryanair charges £115 online or £160 with an agent and for Wizz Air, it’s €60 per person. So, there are benefits to being internet savvy when booking a flight.
There are also Rescue Fees for easyJet customers; if you miss your flight but arrive within two hours after the scheduled departure time, you can get on the next available flight for £110 per passenger. There are also other fees to take into account like name changes to bookings, extra luggage, and allocated seating which, with easyJet starts at £12.99... but you’ll need to be quick, as those tend to be some of the first seats to go fast.
SCIENTISTS ARE SLOWLY DISCOVERING WHAT SINGERS ALL OVER THE WORLD ALREADY KNOW IN THEIR HEARTS: SINGING IS THE MOST EXCITING AND TRANSFORMATIVE HOBBY YOU CAN FIND. IT TAKES SOMETHING INCREDIBLY INTIMATE, A SOUND THAT BEGINS INSIDE YOU, SHARES IT WITH A ROOMFUL OF PEOPLE AND IT COMES BACK AS SOMETHING EVEN MORE THRILLING: HARMONY
Words: ROB DOES
“I FEELING THE JOY OF MUSIC
F CANNOT FLY, let me sing,” said the composer Stephen Sondheim, one of the most important figures in musical theatre in the last century. And he was right! Group singing lowers stress, relieves anxiety, and elevates endorphins. It is the one thing in life where feeling better is pretty much guaranteed. Even if you walked into a rehearsal exhausted and depressed, by the end of the evening you’ll walk out high as a kite on endorphins and good will. And when you have learned a new song, you will experience an enormous sense of achievement, especially if it’s tricky or has complex harmonies. “Yes, we’ve nailed it!”
Why is group singing so popular?
Choirs and vocal ensembles are becoming increasingly popular. Covid and the ‘no meeting policy’ have had a major impact on choirs worldwide, but the desire to sing continues unabated and people are (re)discovering the many benefits of singing together.
Singing in a group can strengthen a sense of community and has even been shown to synchronise the heartbeat, making it comparable to guided meditation. Singers respond to each other in the moment and make constant tiny adjustments. There are moments when it’s effortless and the whole group is functioning like a single organism with nobody leading. Moving around, meeting like-minded people and immersing yourself in the joy of singing alleviates feelings of loneliness and depression. What’s so special about singing is that it’s a physical experience, also that it’s producing something which you can’t produce on your own. And then, if you add to that the sense of being in the middle of voices singing in harmony, that’s a physically exciting phenomenon, it’s euphoric.
And the fantastic thing is that you don’t have to be a professional singer or strive for perfection to reap the benefits of singing for yourself. Everybody has a voice and everybody can sing. It’s a brilliant way of just giving yourself some quality time. You do not have to become the next Beyoncé or Michael Bublé. Singing is unique because you don’t need to buy any expensive instruments to create sounds and actively participate in the creation of music. Through its physical activity and the related endocrine system triggering, singing can allow us to feel better about ourselves and about the world around us. When we sing together, we develop a rich connection, similar to if we eat together or have lengthy conversations. That makes a chorus a great place to make friends. Even if we don’t necessarily talk to everyone in the chorus, singers experience a general feeling of being
connected with the group, leading to a sense of increased community and belonging.
A capella singing in the Algarve
One of the established musical ensembles in the Algarve is the mixed a capella (singing without musical accompaniment) group Bella Acapella in Olhão. They have been singing for 15 years and many people know them for their enthusiastic and professional concerts at various venues. The chorus does a great variety of music, ranging from classical barbershop songs to hits by some of popular artists like Queen, Miley Cyrus, Elvis and even the Eagles and Toto.
In recent years, Bella Acapella has seen an influx of new members from many countries. The Algarve is a great mix of nationalities and the choir reflects this well. Patricia, a long-time member, remembers very well: “For many years we were a small choir, but since we found our inspiring rehearsal venue in the heart of Olhão, we have new members from France, Italy, the USA, Germany, Scandinavia and Portugal. It’s a great feeling to sing together with so many different people”.
LIGHT & EASY
Packs and stores in 3 bags
Easily pulled up on the beach
Easy to sail alone, + 3 more
Alexandra is one of the newer members: “I missed being around people. I missed the lightness, the fun and the silliness of being in a group of normal friends and I thought to myself, what do I know that will help me find new friends and make me feel better…? I was like, I want to sing with people! ”
Bella Acapella has not only grown in singers but also in quality. Being a bigger chorus, they now have the opportunity to bring in specialised coaches and invest in new arrangements and learning tracks. This spring, the chorus has participated in the international chorus competition in Calpe (Spain) and won a gold medal! They even won a special award for being best in class in the ‘singing’ category. Next step on their journey is a trip to Sweden! The score they achieved in Spain has qualified them for the European championships in Helsingborg in May 2025.
Ready to start singing?
PUMP & GO
Approx. 1 hour for (dis)mounting Motor can be fitted Fast and sportive
Many people have a complex, maybe even ashamed relationship with their voice because we are told in choir, in school: “Oh, don’t sing.” or, “You’re not getting it right”, but singing is a natural way to communicate. People sang together before we spoke together. Some younger members just wanted to train their singing voice, others work on their English and meet new international friends. The joy of singing in front of a live audience and conveying all the strength that singing gives us is contagious. Bella Acapella welcomes new members from all genders, nationalities and phases of life. They rehearse in Olhão every Wednesday evening in the main hall of the República 14 cultural centre, an evening of singing and friendship. All new members get extra guidance to help them through the audition process and the chance of a lifetime to enjoy all the benefits of healthy singing!
Want to know more? Visit bellaacapella.pt
THE BEST BOAT TO SAIL ON THE RIA FORMOSA
Open: Tuesday to Saturday, 09h00 to 15h00
Rua Dr. Miguel Bombarda, 42, Olhão | casaamor-olhao.com | Insta: casa_amor_olhao
Garden leave
WEATHER COOLER – WELL A BIT. TIME TO VISIT PORTUGAL’S MOST BEAUTIFUL GARDENS. ALL DIFFERENT IN SIZE, FORM AND VEGETATION, THEY WILL DELIGHT YOU AND POSSIBLY GET YOU THINKING ABOUT YOUR OWN OUTDOOR SPACES
Words: SANDRA GATO
THE FACT that we live in a warm sunny country with a magnificent coastline makes us run straight to the beach whenever possible: the woodlands, countryside and gardens are not our first thought when the weather is inviting. And since we don’t get as much rain per year as many other European countries, our green nature does lack in lushness.
Despite that, and especially since the pandemic, we all feel a need to escape into wide open spaces, and proof of that is the recent creation of so many passadiços, trekking routes, all over the country.
And gardens, usually located in the middle of cities, are where we go to play with the kids, walk the dog or just breathe.
The following six are a bucket-list-worthy – we do love the beach but we also need our greens to have a healthy life!
SERRALVES PARK, PORTO
Designed by Jacques Gréber in the 1930s, Serralves Park has 18 hectares formed by different areas perfectly intertwined: formal gardens, woods and a traditional farm. Part of the Serralves Foundation, that also includes one of the most important Portuguese museums of contemporary art, visiting this beautiful park with more than 200 local and exotic botanic species is spending the morning (or the day!) amidst not only nature but also art.
Some incredible exterior pieces that belong to the museum pop up between the trees and bushes, making the whole experience absorbing. Not to be missed is the fabulous Treetop Walk. As the name implies, it is a wood structure – created by the Serralves Foundation in collaboration with the Portuguese State Environmental Fund and designed by two Portuguese architects: Carlos Castanheira and Álvaro Siza Vieira – that enables a new approach to nature. The feeling of flying amonsgt the trees or of seating in a nest is definetly there. Until 31 October, Serralves in Light is on. It happens in the park, at night, and is considered by The Times as one of the ten best exhibitions in all of Europe. serralves.pt
Situated in the city that is home to the oldest Portuguese university, Coimbra’s Botanic Garden is part of the academic compound. Founded in 1722, its mission has always been education, research and biodiversity conservation. Open to the public and with no entrance fee, it is organised in two different areas: the classical garden and the arboretum. The first is designed in a neoclassical style, with beautiful terraces and alleys; its flowerbeds are laid out geometrically and its plants chosen so they can display symmetry. The arboretum takes two thirds of the garden’s total area and has an enormous variety of trees and bushes representing many different regions of the world. uc.pt
TERRA NOSTRA PARK, AÇORES
Considered one of the 250 best gardens in the world, it is so much more than a garden. Located near the famous Furnas Valley (one of the world’s largest hydropolises), Terra Nostra Park has a big thermal pool fed by a volcanic spring with a temperature of 42°C. The water is really hot but of a rusty brown colour – a different kind of swim, to say the least.
Apart from the thermal pool, there’s a hotel inside the park that is ideal for a full Terra Nostra immersive experience, and in the restaurant, you have to try the amazing cozido das Furnas, similar to the traditional Portuguese cozido but cooked for hours in holes made in the earth that reach very high temperatures. And the garden. This is an idyllic scenario where nature thrives – 12.5 hectares of forest and garden
Estufa Fria, Lisboa
Below: Estufa Fria, the ‘cold greenhouse’ in Lisbon; Bottom: More than a touch of the East, in Monte Palace, Madeira; Right: Terra Nostra Park, the pride of the Açores
inhabited by 1,800 botanical species. It is rather like an open-air museum where one can admire the most luxurious vegetation grown in volcanic soil. Some botanical collections were created and grown in the park – the Camellia Collection and the Fern Collection, to name just two. No wonder Parque Terra Nostra is one of São Miguel’s island main attractions. parqueterranostra.com
MONTE PALACE, MADEIRA
Madeira is known for its tropical climate. If you can go to just one place to acknowledge that, the place has to be Monte Palace, in Funchal. Monte means Hill and this Monte is where one of Madeira’s most wellknown attractions is located: the basket cars or Monte toboggans, carts made of wicker baskets that are pushed down the Hill by two men called the carreiros. Before embarking on this ride downhill to the centre of the city, visit Monte Palace. Originally an estate that had different owners and housed a hotel, it was bought in 1987 by the entrepreneur Joe Berardo, and since then the garden has been re-established with exotic plants from all over the world (azaleas from Belgium, heather from Scotland, protea from South Africa) and also local species from Laurissilva in the Madeira forest – the largest surviving area of primary laurel forest. montepalacemadeira.com
ESTUFA FRIA, LISBOA
The name translates to ‘Cold Greenhouse’ and, in fact, it does feel like an oasis of intense green and freshness right in the middle of Lisbon. The cold comes from the
lack of mechanical heating in place when it was built.
Located in Parque Eduardo VII – a great place for a walk and where many of the city’s key events are held –Estufa Fria was designed by the Portuguese architect Raul Carapinha and opened in 1933. It was restored in 1945 by architect Francisco Keil do Amaral.
Although it is called Cold Greenhouse, the whole complex is in fact formed by two other gardens: Estufa Quente (Hot Greenhouse) and Estufa Doce (Sweet Greenhouse), so there's real variation.
Besides a large number of exotic trees and plants that have to be kept in different temperatures and soils, hence the name of the gardens, the compound features several lakes, sculptures and small waterfalls.
It is easy to understand why this place is so sought after for weddings and other special occasions. estufafria.lisboa.pt
JARDIM DA ALAMEDA JOÃO DE DEUS, FARO
When we reach the south of Portugal, there is only one thing in our minds: the big blue ocean! But there is so much more to the Algarve. Although there is no abundance of gardens down south, this one does deserve a visit.
The Alameda João de Deus garden is the biggest in Faro and it’s where peacocks strutt freely. In the grounds, one can admire several botanical species, a small waterfall and a lake, and dedicated play areas. Also deserving a stop: the façade of the matadouro (slaughterhouse), a neo-arabic style building that is now Faro’s Library. cm-faro.pt
20 questions...
IF YOU WANT TO MAKE THE RIGHT IMPRESSION, AND A LASTING ONE, YOU NEED SPECIALIST GUIDANCE FROM AN IMAGE-MAKING EXPERT WHO WILL GET YOU OUT THERE AND NOTICED BY THE AUDIENCE THAT COUNTS. TIME TO MEET SUZI STEINHOFEL OF DESIGN WORKS
1 When did you arrive in the Algarve and what brought you here? I arrived here in 1983 and worked on the Albufeira camp site for a season to check out whether Portugal was for me.
2 Where you already in a design career? I left a great job at a multi-national advertising Agency in Liverpool (Rex Stewart Forbes Keir) at age 25. They offered me an account director’s position. But the pull of the sunshine and a lack of desire for the admin side convinced me – Portugal was to be my new home.
3 Where did you study? A small boutique art college in Northwich, Cheshire. I started with a basic ground course and went on to study advertising and graphics, which was very different then than it is today.
4 Where did you find work here? I’d been here for a few weeks and was looking around; back then there was only graphic work in a printer’s office, which wasn’t for me, and luckily I bumped into Fred Phillips of Atelier do Sul (on a squash court), which was the Algarve’s leading design agency – after a very short interview I was offered a position. I remained there for 25 years, first managing the studio and very quickly becoming a partner.
5 What sort of work came your way when you set up Designworks? It was in 2009. I already had a good design reputation so I continued doing what I knew best – branding, advertising, sign projects and promotional print work.
6 What were you offering potential clients then and what were their key objectives? I provided a full service – everything from naming a development to designing logos, branding, print work, stationery, advertising, sign and vehicle projects. Clients were focused on selling – from property to rounds of golf and golf memberships to berths at the marina... and all to Northern Europeans.
7 Who were your first clients? I was lucky to win Four Seasons Fairways Resort in a pitch – they have been my client ever since – Vilamoura Marina, Vale d’Oliveiras Resort, Fine Dining Catering, Sovereign Financial Services and Solambiente Kitchens and Bathrooms, amongst many others.
8 How did they find you – was it all word of mouth? Yes to word of mouth, and networking.
9 What unique services does Designworks offer today? I like to think that all of the work from Designworks is unique – every piece of work has the hallmark of its client, each project has unique thought behind it to match the personality and objectives to communicate a clear message to its particular audience.
10 Individuals and businesses that approach you – do they have a clear idea of what they want to achieve? A lot of my role is to define objectives and create a clear path of communication –piece by piece, with an A to Z approach that fits with budgets over the desired time-span – any campaign
NEW great TASTES
A Tavola, Vale de Parra
A TASTE OF RETRO ITALY IN THE HEART OF THE ALGARVE – THAT IS HOW DAVID CAMPUS, CO-FOUNDER OF AUSTA IN ALMANCIL, DESCRIBES HIS LATEST FIND. NOT ONLY IS IT A GREAT PLACE TO LUNCH, BUT IT ALSO OFFERS SUBLIME CATERING SERVICES IN YOUR OWN HOME
NESTLED IN the village of Vale de Parra in the Algarve, on the way to the sun-soaked beaches of Galé, lies the newly-opened A Tavola – a deli, apéro-antipasti bar and a nostalgic journey into the heart of Italy, infused with a whimsically retro flair.
Oozing the vibrancy and cosiness of southern Italy, A Tavola (which translates as At The Table in Italian) is the brainchild of two sisters from Germany, Julia and Franzi, young and fervent foodies whose combined backgrounds in finance and creating successful restaurant concepts complement each other’s keen eye for business and detail.
Together, the sisters have created a small space that feels both intimately familiar and refreshingly unique – a perfect reflection of their shared love for Italian ingredients and convivial hosting.
Stepping inside, the retro fonts
and achingly cool and graphic décor, vintage posters, and carefully curated details such as bottles of Martini Rosso lined up on the walls immediately evoke the nostalgic charm of a classic Italian lunch-spot, but with a playful twist that could easily be the backdrop of a recent Wes Anderson film.
Blending a love for Italian gastronomy and their expertise in creating irresistible hospitality concepts, it’s clear that A Tavola has thoughtfully and playfully curated every corner of the space to transport visitors to a moment where life is relaxed and local gossip flows as freely as the Aperol.
At the heart of the deli is its antipasti bar that is brimming with Italian delights, all of which are impossible to resist. Stoppers-by can indulge in a variety of picky bits and small plates.
Take your pick from marinated olives and artichokes to creamy burrata drizzled with olive oil, juicy tomatoes and prosciutto, or more tummy-filling bites like warm, soft focaccia sandwiches stuffed with
FOOD Italian deli with a focus on delicious antipasti that combines the best ingredients.
DECOR
Laid back, full of authentic Italian charm and detail. Eat there or picnic on the beach. PRICE
Spend €15 and enjoy every mouthful. Drinks are sensibly priced, too.
mortadella, each dish a humble celebration of Italy’s unbeatable ingredients. The menu, though rooted in these classic Italian flavour combinations, is ever-changing, with creative twists and specials keeping things fresh and exciting.
We pull up a chair on the street outside and tuck in while watching holiday makers stream down to the beaches nearby, while locals chatter outside their doors.
But A Tavola isn’t just about sitting down to eat – it’s about making memories. Whether you’re planning a simple lazy beach day or an active special event, Julia and Franzi have you covered.
Pick up a vintage picnic cooler filled with your chosen deli treats and you’re all set for a seaside feast. If you’re planning something bigger, the girls offer a unique catering service, transforming ordinary gardens into vibrant, pop-up festas.
Their catering service goes beyond just food – they provide their signature retro décor, furniture, tableware, and even playlists to create an authentic southern Italian street food vibe.
Whether you’re popping in or popping up at home, A Tavola is the perfect recipe for savouring the simple pleasures of holiday-era Italy... and it is right here on our doorstep in the Algarve.
Buon appetito!
KETTAL & TUUCI
In the heart of
West Algarve
CASA STEPHANIE DAS FLORES, A HIDDEN GEM IN THE COUNTRYSIDE TOWN OF ALJEZUR, DEMONSTRATES HOW PASSION, KNOWLEDGE, AND THE PURSUIT OF PERFECTION CAN TURN WHAT WAS ONCE A RUIN INTO A SPLENDID HOMEFROM-HOME FOR THOSE LOOKING FOR A QUIET ESCAPE
Words: EMMA CAMPUS Photography: @ ESCOLHIDO.CO
TUCKED AWAY in the tiny countryside town of Aljezur on the West Coast of the Algarve, the rugged mountains meet the wild Atlantic and a new hidden gem that blends the old-world charm of the authentic Algarve with effortlessly stylish comforts – Casa Stephanie das Flores appears. This serene village house, designed with love and a deep respect for local traditions, is the brainchild of ex-fashion PR Janete Rodas, whose journey from the picturesque Minho region to the bustling streets of New York City has come full circle, back to her Portuguese roots. A spot of solace for beach lovers, nature enthusiasts and peaceful retreat hunters, this new little holiday home – in the stillness of its golden light – is a welcome addition to our collection of hidden gems dotted across our beloved region.
Janete’s watchful eye, her focus on individuality, and her wish to support local artisans have led to the creation of something truly special
A Journey of rediscovery
Meeting Janete at the house on a warm summer’s day, it’s clear that her story is as rich and layered as the home she has lovingly created. Born in the lush Minho region in the North of Portugal, her earliest memories are steeped in the earthy scents and rustic rhythms of her grandmother’s farm. “Life was simple – tending to the cows and sheep, gathering vegetables from the garden for family meals, and living in harmony with nature,” she says. These experiences left a lasting imprint, forging a deep connection to her heritage and the land.
At the age of four, Janete’s family moved to New York City, a world away from the tranquil landscapes she was born into. In the bustling metropolis, she flourished, building a successful career in PR and Communications for luxury brands. But despite her achievements, the call of her roots remained strong. In 2020, she made the life-changing decision to return to Portugal, settling in Lisbon with her partner and young daughter and it was here that her long-held dream began to take shape – a dream of creating something uniquely her own in the place she left so young.
Where the past meets the present
Taking time to explore the country in search of that special and personal connection, she found her muse in Aljezur, a place that captivated her with its untouched beauty and historical charm. Where time stands still and where traditional whitewashed cottages dot the rolling hills, it was the dramatic coastline behind Praia da Amoreira and Praia
Each element of Casa Stephanie das Flores has been thoughtfully chosen to create a space that feels both authentic and welcoming.
da Arrifana that washed over her and inspired her to seek out the perfect pad.
“After much searching, it was in this enchanting hillside setting that I finally discovered an old ruin, more than 70 years old, and saw the potential to create a space that would honour the past while embracing the present,” she says. With permission, Janete salvaged as much materials from the house as she could, including the beautiful stone and Santa Catarina flooring, which now adorn Casa Stephanie, adding layers of history and character to the adobe.
Embracing local heritage
Tucked amongst other charming white-washed cottages, her now twobedroom home offers those who stay the perfect blend of style, relaxation and connection with nature. And from the moment we step inside, we are greeted with breathtaking views of rolling hills and swaying trees, inviting us to unwind and immerse ourselves in the tranquil coastal lifestyle of a place that Janete fell in love with.
“I wanted the house to be a celebration of Portuguese craftsmanship, inspired by my old family connections to the country, and my own personal style and taste in design that has evolved through my travels since then” she says. Constructed using ‘taipa,’ a traditional building material, and featuring the iconic blue windows and white shutters characteristic of the region, the space beautifully embodies the architecture of the Algarve and Alentejo regions. The interior is a harmonious blend of modern comfort and authentic Portuguese charm, with each piece of furniture and décor, curated by Janete, telling a story of its own.
An expression of craft and style
The kitchen showcases custom-made azulejos designed in collaboration with Cortiço & Netos, adding Janete’s personal
style and touch to the space. The vintage bamboo sofa, a 1970s treasure passed down by a Portuguese family, has been given new life with upholstery in striped yellow Portuguese fabric. From the carefully selected vintage furniture to the handcrafted crochet curtains in the kitchen, each element of the home has been thoughtfully chosen to create a space that feels both authentic and welcoming.
Supporting local artisans and craftsmen has been a cornerstone of Janete’s vision. “It was important for me to use local artisans and shed a light on all the amazing talent in Portugal,” she explains.
As she continues to bring in more pieces from local creators, Casa Stephanie will only grow richer in stories and character.
An invitation to unwind and explore
We make use of the fully-equipped kitchen during our stay, cosying into the dining area for supper on hand-crafted chairs by Orlando Artesanatos of Algarve.
In the morning we take breakfast in the garden, shaded by a 20-year-old bougainvillea tree before curling up with a book on irresistible linen sofas in the living area or swaying in the hammock at sunset, both a reminder of life’s simple pleasures, disconnected from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
“Casa Stephanie is about emotions and memories. It’s about connection –connection to food, gratitude, and to one another. Sitting around a table that has its own story, creating new memories around this table, connecting while being in stillness, listening to the soundtrack of birds in the garden or the stork that built its nest above the house. We come to Casa Stephanie to gather, to enjoy late hours with views of the mountains until the wine stains the tablecloth, coexisting in the harmony of nature’s melodies and its beauty,” says Janete.
And we couldn’t agree more.
CASA STEPHANIE DAS FLORES / INSTAGRAM.COM/CASA_STEPHANIE_ALJEZUR/
ade in Madeira
MMADEIRA IS A TROPICAL PARADISE IN THE MIDDLE OF THE ATLANTIC WITH STUNNING LANDSCAPES AND A MILD CLIMATE THROUGHOUT
THE YEAR. AN ENCHANTING COMBINATION OF HISTORY, CULTURE AND NATURAL BEAUTY, IT IS ALSO FAMED FOR ITS FORTIFIED SPIRITS
Words: LÍVIA MOKRI
PONCHA is the most traditional drink of Madeira. Made from sugar cane spirit, bee honey and lemon juice, it is believed that it was sampled on the island in the mid-18th century by the English who, at that time, were frequent visitors, but that a similar drink was the choice of Portuguese navigators in the 16th century, and used to treat or prevent diseases typical of sailors and traders. Today, however, it is appreciated more for its delicious taste than its medicinal attributes, and can be prepared with various ingredients such as passion fruit, tomato and orange, with absinthe or whiskey.
When you order a Poncha in Madeira, you will also get a cup of peanuts, and do not worry, it is fine to throw the shells on the ground.
The classic recipe
Serves 4
¼ litre of brandy cane sugar or Madeira rum
3-5 tbsps of honey
juice of 2 lemons
Make it
1 Squeeze the lemons and pour the juice into a jar with honey.
2 Stir together well (in Madeira they use a stirring stick, a caralhinho).
3 Add some cane sugar spirits and stir again.
4 Add the remainder of the spirits and stir some more.
5 Add more honey or brandy, to taste.
6 Serve in small cups or glasses. To sweeten your poncha even more, add the juice of one orange.
If you don’t feel like DIY-ing your Poncha, you can buy it ready to drink. Visit portuguesewinesshop. com/shop/wine-regions/ponchada-madeira/poncha-da-madeiratradicional/
RUM
Nowadays, Madeira Rum is one of the archipelago’s best-known regional products and appreciated by visitors and locals alike.
Its origins date back to the period of discovery of the region and the arrival of Portuguese navigators in the 15th century, when sugar cane was introduced using cuttings from Sicily. Sugar became one of Madeira’s main products, called ‘white gold’, and was exported to mainland Portugal, the Gulf of Guinea, Africa, Northern Europe and the Mediterranean area, leading to a prolific processing industry by the 17th century.
Initially, Madeiran rum was made using rudimentary processess, distilled in traditional Portuguese stills. However, at the end of the 19th century, the first sugarcane spirit distillation devices appeared, imported from Cognac in France.
Originally, the rum was produced mainly to fortify Madeira wines, but the emergence of the local cocktail, Poncha, helped popularise it. However, as was the case throughout the world during the 20th century, the sugar crisis hit and production was concentrated in large factories, such as that of William Hinton, a veritable sugar giant. This factory, founded in 1845, was the last one on the island and closed in 1986, but the WH Distillery was reopened in 2006 and, in addition to its rum, produced special editions, such as the Single Cask with Madeira, Whisky, Carcavelos and Sauternes, among others. Rum can be enjoyed alone, with an ice cube or a little mineral water, or with the addition of an orange peel. In the classic Old Fashioned, you can replace the whisky with aged rum.
Madeira rum, commonly known as ‘cane spirit’, has a minimum alcohol content of 37.5% vol. From natural rum, an essential raw material for the typical Poncha, to Madeira rum aged in oak casks, you will find an extensive range of taste options, from anise and fresh grass to sweet fruit flavours with spicy herbal notes. You can also find blends of two different years, aged in French oak barrels.
Obtained exclusively from the alcoholic fermentation and distillation of sugar cane juice, which has been widely recognised, excellent quality Madeira rum is one of the most appreciated traditional products of this Atlantic region. The cane is harvested from March to May, the time of the annual distillation programme.
Around 95% of the world’s rum is industrial, made with sugarcane remains and molasses (a by-product distillation; in Madeira, only fresh juice is used, which then ferments for 48 hours, often without yeast but with fresh bread dough from the bakery, which serves as yeast). In the end, the big difference between Madeira rum and rum from Cuba is that the latter has more acidity, is purer, and has very little sugar.
There are currently six active sugar mills on the island, where the production of a myriad of small sugarcane producers takes place. Worth a visit, certainly. And the annual Madeira Rum Festival in April is an event for all rum lovers!
Take your pick
1. ENGENHOS DO NORTE – NORTH 3 YEARS
On the north coast of Madeira, in the village of Porto da Cruz, is the Engenhos do Norte, one of the three old mills operating today. Built in 1927, it still uses the machines of that time, being the only one in Europe to use steam as a driving force.
The North 3 Years rum has a distinct character, with light notes of spices and is amber in colour. This complexity of flavours is developed after the rum has aged in French oak casks for three years in Engenhos do Norte. vinha.co.uk/wine/rum-north-70clmadeira/
2. RUM WILLIAM HINTON MADEIRA 3 YEARS
This three-year-old drink is based on the original William Hinton rum but, as it is aged in French oak barrels for three years, it gains a character with a unique and unmistakable taste. A very particular rum with a minty nose, clean and crisp taste, very light, hardly any burn; impressive, and a bit bitter. garrafinhas.pt/produto/rum-williamhinton-madeira-3-anos/
3. O REIZINHO AGED 6 YEARS
The ‘Aged 6 Years’ rum from O Reizinho distillery in Madeira is a cask-strength, column-still distilled spirit made from sugar cane juice. This rum boasts a 61.2% alcohol level, and a rich and unique flavour profile. It presents the aromas of raisin, wood, chocolate, popcorn, and cookie, while the flavour notes include syrupy, raisin, roasted, and oak. It has a harmonious balance, with the distinct Madeira cask influence, tannins, and dried fruit. A complex and bold drink with a captivating character. garrafeiragenuina.pt/en/destilados/oreizinho-rum-da-madeira-6-years
1 2 3
Rum in aged old barrels in a factory in Porto da Cruz
LANDSCAPES
THE USA IS NOT THE ONLY COUNTRY WITH DIVIDED VIEWS BUT THE ART SCENE THERE THRIVES. BEING CORNELIA DRUTA IN MOLDOVA, IS A MUCH MORE CHALLENGING EXPERIENCE. HER LANDSCAPES ILLUSTRATE THE BEAUTY OF HER HOMELAND
words: CAROLYN KAIN
MOLDOVA’S topography of a Hundred Rolling Hills is a unique phenomenon. Broad leafed forests, pasture, plains and vineyards planted on rolling uplands make up the rest of the landscape, but as artist Cornelia Druta explains: “In Moldova many families live in poverty with wages that are often less than €400 a month. How to put food on the table is more important to most people than thinking about art. Our population is made up of Moldovans, Romanians and Ukrainians, most of them living in rural areas with some of the older generation feeling a sense of nostalgia for the Soviet Era. This can result in conflict between generations in one family. Another point of tension exists for those people who live alongside the border of Transnistria where half a million ethnic Russians supported by the Russian army have formed a breakaway republic”.
Four years ago a pro-European, female candidate, Maia Sandu won the Moldovan Presidential election. After a stream of corrupt post communist leaders the country was on its economic knees and the new President was in a position to improve the situation. Remarkably, new parliamentary reforms are paying dividends and a referendum this year may result in Moldova joining the EU.
Always looking towards the west for inspiration, a degree of optimism can be felt especially in the capital city of Chișinäu. Its international airport brings tourists, mostly to experience the 120 vineyards and wineries for which Moldova is famous.
about the artist
How long have you been painting?
At the age of 9, I started studying at an Art School for children. Over the years, I have been lucky enough to participate in several group exhibitions, both locally and internationally.
What is your favourite colour palette?
To echo nature, a colour palette I find appealing often includes a mix of calm and vibrant tones that add warmth and energy.
The art scene is beginning to awaken and with the rise of social media the interest in art and artists has increased. There are signs of more cultural activity with art exhibitions, events and a demand amongst the younger generation for art studies. Cornelia’s paintings recently featured in an art fair in Chisinäu but her work is deserving of a wider audience.
In a time-taking bureaucratic process, Côrte-Real, the inspiring gallery in Paderne, arranged to transport a series of her landscape paintings into the EU and clearing them through customs in Lisbon. The resulting exhibition is impressive.
Working with soft creamy oils using an impasto technique, the paint has been layered upon layers, thick enough so that strokes made with her brush and palette-knife add texture, creating views of the luscious countryside, humble rural homes surrounded by woodlands, surging streams and the serene slow-flowing waters of the Dniester River as it reaches out towards the Black Sea.
Galeria Côrte-Real is delighted to represent Cornelia Druta, a young woman whose paintings bring a breadth of warmth and pleasure.
And the greens and blues that can bring a touch of life, freshness and peace.
Do you paint from your imagination, or from subjects around you?
Simple subjects such as the forest, the sunset, the flowers inspire me, and at the same time, the corners of the world where I travel in my mind – the lakes of Italy, the streets of Holland, the sunsets of Cornwall. Creating a landscape is not about making a faithful
reproduction of what you see, but rather about creating a visual experience and reinventing the image in front of you.
Which artists inspire you?
I love the works of Claude Monet and Van Gogh and how they challenged traditional notions of art. A contemporary example is Bato Dugarzhapov. Their bold use of colour, form and composition inspired me to push my own artistic boundaries.
WHETHER YOUR PASSION IS FOR CONTEMPORARY MUSIC, THE CLASSICS, OR DANCE OR THEATRE, YOU CAN SATISFY YOUR THIRST FOR QUALITY PERFORMANCES AT COUNTLESS VENUES ACROSS PORTUGAL, MANY OF WHICH WILL FEED YOUR APPETITE, AS WELL AS ENTERTAIN YOU. AND IN MANY CASES, THE SETTING BECOMES AS IMPORTANT TO THE AMBIENCE AS THE NOTES BEING PLAYED
Words: LAURA SHEA
ON STAGE
A
S WITH ANY DAY or evening out, getting the best experience for your money relies on a few simple rules that can make things easier. Concerts, plays or live music events nearly always require pre-purchased tickets, and getting these as early as possible usually means best seats at the best price. If you are travelling a little bit further afield, then securing tickets early means you can also find accommodation without paying through the nose. Usually, hotels will be aware of big productions and will increase prices as space becomes more sought after. If possible, avoid Friday evening to Sunday afternoon shows as staying overnight will be more expensive, and restaurants won’t be providing any meal deals or set menus at a discount. Also, do consider the option of
renting an Airbnb for a couple of nights rather than staying in a hotel. In city centres such as Lisbon and Porto, there are some amazing options. When it comes to buying tickets, there can sometimes be last minute ticket prices. Check out sites such as getyourguide. co.uk, viator.com and eventbrite.ca/d/portugal/events to see a range of things organised by date and location. For a special occasion, where you sit can have a huge impact on the experience. For live music, the nearer to the stage the better, but for open air concerts, finding a spot a bit further back and laying down a picnic blanket can be ideal. In theatres, front and centre are premium spaces but definitely worth the cost. For large scale productions, the dress circle will offer a clear view and has a height benefit, but for smaller and more intimate venues, the stalls will provide you with the up-close view to see all details. Take a look at these:
Zé Dos Bois, Lisbon: Live music, a wide range of events and art exhibitions make this one of the most current and exciting places to visit when in Lisbon. Part of RPAC, Rede Portuguesa de Arte Contemporânea, ZBD is known for being forward thinking and inclusive, and guaranteed to provide an unforgettable night. You can sit on the beautiful terrace and enjoy your favourite drink and soak up the vibe, or you can be in the thick of it and dance the night away to some of the newest acts on the Lisbon music scene. This establishment is well respected in musical circles and many people make regular visits purely to take in an evening of superb quality jazz. Check out the programme of events for the year at zedosbois.org/en/ and book tickets early to avoid disappointment. The events vary dramatically, and include new and well established musical acts, alongside dance troops and performance artists. zedosbois.org
Casa da Música, Porto: Soon to mark its 20th anniversary, the Casa da Musica is an essential destination for music lovers when visiting the city. Built purely to the dedication to musical arts in multiple forms, the architecture itself is stunning in its very difference to the traditional, and the selection of events is impressive.
Featuring a modern and exciting restaurant as well as a café, it would be easy to spend a day at this venue as there are so many different spaces to explore. Book a guided tour to fully understand the meaning behind the building, indulge in an exquisite lunch, and then enjoy one of the varied offerings of concerts and shows. Known for hosting some of classical music’s rising stars, the various concert rooms envelope you in the stirring sounds thanks to the impeccable acoustic planning of the architectural vision. casadamusica.com
Teatro Nacional de São Carlos, Lisbon: Opened by Queen Maria in 1793, the opera house was created to replace the previous building destroyed in the 1755 earthquake. Built in dedication to Princess Charlotte of Spain, the theatre has been the ultimate venue to enjoy the opulent performances for hundreds of years, and its history can be felt within the gilded walls. Check the schedule for the upcoming year to ensure you get your hands on tickets before they sell out and book accommodation early to get the best rates. The best seats you can purchase are the balcony options to give you the optimum view of the stage. Go for a delicious dinner near the theatre and then treat yourself to a glass of bubbles before the curtain goes up. tnsc.pt
Palácio e Jardins do Marquês de Pombal, Oeiras: A national monument in Portugal, the gardens are open daily from 10am and well worth a visit with a guided tour to learn the secret details of this stunning area. Hosting a yearly festival in the picturesque surroundings, this is not your typical camping and portaloos type of event. Think more of warm summer evenings with the air filled with floral scents, and a gathering of like-minded people drinking in every second of blissful songs performed on a state-of-the-art stage with a matching sound system. To make this even more of a truly magical moment, invest in a Garden Valley VIP Lounge ticket and delight in the chilled out atmosphere with food and drink themed to compliment the performers of the night, at an absolute steal of €25 per person (performance tickets are purchased separately) this adds a dash of luxury to an already culturally nourishing evening. Each concert offers tickets priced according to seating area, and if possible always opt for the golden
circle, or incredible. Plan ahead and try to book your tickets as soon as the programme is announced, as the best seats and VIP packages sell out quickly. jardinsdomarques-pt
Teatro Lethes, Faro: For somewhere a little closer to home, check out Teatro Lethes in Faro. Originally a Jesuit college from 1600, the building became the much loved theatre in 1845 when an Italian doctor purchased it and had dreams of mimicking the National Theatre in Lisbon. Named after one of the five rivers of Hades, supposedly with the power to cleanse your memory of sadness, the structure has had a rich and not always rosy past, and you cannot ignore the history when you step inside. Like something from an emotional opera, a ballerina took her own life on stage due to heartbreak from unrequited love, and the remains of a Napoleonic soldier were found inside a wall during one stage of renovations. If the memoirs of this building aren’t enough to entice you in, then the architecture will do. A stunning painted ceiling watches over several floors of balconies and boxes, and the seats offer comfort to enhance your experience. The theatre offers a varied programme of events from plays to fado nights, and is known for being very good value. One tip from anyone who visits regularly is to bag yourself one of the boxes for the feel of a VIP experience for the same price as a normal ticket! teatrolethes.com Teatro Municipal, Portimão: This theatre offers more of a modern experience, having been built in 2008 and equipped with state-of-the-art tech and two auditoriums. Classical and contemporary dance, children’s plays and puppet shows, rock concerts and experimental theatre have all taken to the stage for everyone to enjoy. Known for being a cultural meeting place for all who visit Portimão, the theatre is built in the grounds of the Sarrea Palace and has kept its façade, blending in perfectly with the modernisation of the interior. Priding itself on supporting local artists as well as international performers and offering up the spaces to promote festivals of all kinds, this is one place to keep an eye on for unique and memorable productions. teatromunicipaldeportimao.pt/
Cineteatro Louletano, Loulé: If you are a fan of modern performance arts and like to see the unusual and thought provoking, then this is the one for you. Opened in 1930, the theatre has continued to uphold its original founding ideals to display the arts in any form for the people of Loulé to enjoy. Famous actors have graced the stage here, and world-renowned films have drawn in huge crowds. After renovation works were completed the teatro reopened in 2011 and since then has provided a space for families and school children to learn, as well as an area for community projects to be displayed. cineteatro-cm-loule-pt
Previous page: The stunning Palácio e Jardins do Marquês de Pombal. This page, above left: Tetro Lethes in Faro; right: the great classic, the Teatro Nacional de São Carlos in Lisbon. Below: Porto’s Casa da Música, which never fails to amaze
Black pork cheek pani puri with parsnip purée
SOUNDS ADVENTUROUS? GOT THE TASTE BUDS TINGLING? IN THIS RECIPE, SEBASTIÃO VASCONCELOS, CHEF OF LISBON ’ S LAID BACK MESA DO BAIRRO RESTAURANT, BRINGS TOGETHER UNUSUAL ELEMENTS TO CREATE DISHES WITH A FLAVOUR OF THE EAST
INGREDIENTS
3 pieces pani puri (see opposite page)
200g black pork cheeks or trimmings
5g garlic, chopped
1 onion, chopped
3 carrots, coarsley chopped
1 celery stalk, coarsley chopped
Tomato paste concentrate to taste
1 litre red wine
1 sprig rosemary
2 sprigs thyme
1 bay leaf
200g cherovia (parsnips)
500ml milk
20g butter
300ml peanut oil
Fresh parsley leaves
METHOD
1 Marinate the cheeks overnight in red wine to which you have added the chopped rosemary and thyme leaves from 1 sprig, onion, carrot and celery.
2 The next day, sauté 5g of garlic, 10g of onion, 20g of carrot and 10g of celery in a pan. When golden, add the drained cheeks and let them take on a caramelised colour.
3 Add the concentrated tomato paste and the red wine to cover the meat. Add a bay leaf, a sprig of rosemary and a sprig of thyme and bring the wine to the boil. Cover and cook on a low heat for two and a half to three hours.
4 Remove the cheeks and put on one side. Reduce the sauce for about half an hour over a medium heat. Use a blender to smooth and then pour the sauce through a sieve. Discard any vegetables and herbs remaining.
5 For the parsnip purée: peel the parsnips and cook in milk, salt to taste and remaining thyme leaves until cooked (about 10/12 minutes). Transfer to a blender, without the milk, and add
butter. Blend until you get the desired texture.
6 To fry the pani puri: Heat the oil in a saucepan to 180°C degrees. Fry the pani puri until they take on a golden/brown colour – about two minutes on each side.
7 Remove the pani puri from the oil onto a piece of kitchen paper to drain. Dip the parsley leaves into the oil for ten seconds to crisp.
8 Crumble the cheek meat into a bowl, add a little of the sauce and parsley. Make a hole in the pani puri with your finger or the tip of a knife on one side only and fill with the cheek.
9 To plate, put the purée on the bottom of the dish, then top with the stuffed pani puri and finish with the parsley.
ABOUT THE CHEF
Sebastião Vasconcelos of Mesa do Bairro restaurant studied economics but discovered his passion for cooking after attending the Lisbon Hotel School and doing an internship at the Tivoli Lisboa hotel in 2012. He was a trainee at Vítor Mouro’s Assinatura restaurant and at the Epic Sana hotel, and moved on to work with chef Vítor Claro at Mercado da Ribeira before becomig João Lobão’s right-hand man at Substância restaurant. He has been chef at Mesa do Bairro restaurant since 2018 supported by the team he has trained.
PANI PURI
Pani puri are hollow crispy ‘shells’, made with semolina or wheat flour that can be stuffed with various ingredients. This recipe uses a brilliant blend of flavours and textures. You will find pani puri at Asian food stores including Baazwsh in Albufeira and Faro
PLANNING a holiday when you have a furry member of the family can be tricky in peak season. Boarding kennels get booked up, pet-sitting friends are otherwise engaged on holidays of their own, and older kids don’t want the responsibility of being left in charge of the family pet. So, why not take your beloved pet along with you?
Travelling with pets can be a rewarding experience, turning an ordinary holiday into a memorable adventure. Plus, you don’t have to be constantly face-timing Fido and his sitter just to check he’s okay and how many poos he’s had that day (the dog, not the sitter!). Many hotels and resorts offer pet-friendly rooms and even petfriendly services like daycare – we’ve rounded up a few of our favourites.
TIVOLI MARINA VILAMOURA
With its prime location in the heart of Vilamoura, the Tivoli Marina permits cats and dogs up to 25kg to stay on the premises. You are allowed a maximum of two pets per room at a charge of €25 per room. All pets are required to be microchipped, appropriately vaccinated, and with the correct pet passport documentation. The hotel has a limit of pets per night so make sure to check availability. Dogs are not allowed to stay in the room alone, except during breakfast, lunch and dinner, so be prepared to plan lots of fun trips with your pet each day. For safety reasons, pets (except guide dogs) are not allowed in food areas, swimming pools, or hotel gardens. Feline friends can stay alone in the room but if they’re partial to ripping up the curtains and carpets then you might want to rethink that! tivolihotels.com
YOU’RE FURRY WELCOME
END-ISH OF SUMMER, TIME FOR A BREAK. WHEN LEAVING BEHIND THE MOST IMPORTANT MEMBER OF THE FAMILY ISN’T AN OPTION, CHECK OUT THE HOTELS AND RESTAURANTS THAT WILL BE DELIGHTED IF YOUR FURRY FRIENDS ACCOMPANY YOU
Words: SALLY DIXON
CONRAD ALGARVE
It is pretty much guaranteed that Fido won’t stay anywhere else after you introduce him to Conrad Algarve; you’re setting the bar very high for future holidays at this very special hotel where they have been welcoming pets since they opened in 2012.
Fido even gets a personalised welcome name card, bed, food and water bowls, a toy, and dog waste bags – see, I told you they wouldn’t want to leave!
Pets up to 30kg are allowed at this top-notch hotel for a daily fee of €50 per pet (service animals are exempt from fees), with a maximum of two animals per room. Pets are not allowed in the hotel restaurants and pool areas, but they can be in social areas if they are leashed and with their owner. hilton.com
ANANTARA VILAMOURA
Cats, and dogs up to 25kg, are welcome at Anantara Vilamoura, plus they’ll get their own pet bed and dedicated bowls for food and water. Your furry friend will set you back €45 per night/per pet for stays November to May, and €75 per night/per pet for stays June to October. Pets are not allowed to stay in the room on their own, nor are they permitted in the food and beverage areas of the hotel (with the exception of service dogs). You will need to provide your own food for your pet’s stay. anantara.com/en
MONCHIQUE RESORT & SPA
With its idyllic location in the Serra de Monchique mountains this hotel is perfectly placed for some great days out exploring
with your pet. This is five-star luxury immersed in nature, surrounded by rolling hills and dog-friendly trails. Cats, and dogs of 25kg and under, are allowed at Monchique resort for a daily fee of €25 per animal (guide dogs free of charge), one pet per room. Pet food is not included with the daily fee, and you are required to let the hotel know the breed of pet in advance of your stay. Pets are not allowed in public areas of the hotel (guide dogs only) but may use the gardens. monchiqueresort.com
REAL MARINA RESIDENCE
Ho about this: pet-friendly apartments in the heart of Olhão for a home-from-home holiday experience? Located right next to Olhão Marina, this is the ideal place for exploring the town on foot with your pet. A maximum of two animals are allowed in the apartment at a cost of €25 per pet/ per day.
All rooms and bedrooms have air conditioning to keep you and your fourlegged friends cool in the summer heat. With fully-equipped kitchens for cooking your own meals, these apartments even have their own outdoor swimming pool. realmarinaresidence.realhotelsgroup.com
NAU SAO RAFAEL SUITES
One of the few luxury hotels in the Algarve that allow furry guests. If your pet is a bit of a chunker though, you might be out of luck. Pets up to 10kg only are allowed to stay in the all-inclusive five-star suites. A cash deposit of €100/per animal is required at check-in with a fee of €25/per animal/per night for the duration of your stay. Pet food and bedding are not included in the daily rate so be sure to bring your own. Pets are not allowed in the public areas such as swimming pools, restaurants, bars and terraces. The restrictions on weight and pet-free spaces do not apply to guide dogs. nauhotels.com
W ALGARVE
World renowned W Hotels (part of the Marriott group) have an outpost in the Algarve, and you guessed it, it’s pet friendly. Pets up to 15kg can join the family holiday for a fee of €130 per stay with a maximum of one pet per room; pet baskets and bowls are available. With room categories such as ‘wonderful’, ‘fabulous’, ‘extreme wow’, and ‘mega marvellous’ your pet is in for a luxury treat. marriott.com/en-us/hotels/faowh-w-algarve
OCTANT, VILA MONTE FARMHOUSE
This delightful hotel set in nine hectares of bougainvillea-filled garden near Moncarapacho welcomes cats and dogs up to 25kg (service dogs exempt from weight rules) for a fee of €50 per night. Pet food is not included in the daily rate, but you will get an animal kit with surprises for your pet! You can have one dog, or two cats, stay in your room with you and leashed pets are free to explore the hotel accompanied by you, excluding the indoor and outdoor pool, spa, gym, Kids Club and experience rooms. Service dogs are exempt from these rules. vilamonte.octanthotels.com
This beautiful boutique hotel in the far eastern corner of the Algarve is very welcoming of furry family members up to 10kg. But be warned, as a Relais & Châteaux and Mr & Mrs Smith property, your pet could get used to living the high life! At Grand House they believe that a family holiday isn’t complete without every family member, four-legged ones included. Not only that, but all kinds of domestic pets are welcome, dog, cat, mouse, turtle, bird, fish! For €25 per night (€10 of which goes to a local animal support charity) your pet can join in the family holiday fun, with amenities including a place to sleep and bowls for food and water. Pets are limited to one per room and are not allowed in the room without supervision, but if you’re planning a night out without Fido then pet sitting services are available for an extra charge.
grandhousealgarve.com
HERDADE DA MALHADINHA NOVA
Venture further north of Faro and you will find the self-proclaimed ‘one of Portugal’s best kept secrets’, Herdade da Malhadinha Nova. This Relais & Châteaux property welcomes four-legged guests, allowing accommodation of up to two animals in the villas, Casa da Ribeira and Casa das Artes & Ofícios. To keep all guests happy, dogs and cats are not allowed in the social areas of the hotel, spa, restaurant, wine cellar and tavern. Pets will set you back €100 per night/per animal and are not allowed to be left in the villa unsupervised for more than two hours. Expect to pay a €300 deposit at check-in, just in case your pet has any aspirations of rock band-style room trashing. A four-legged guest welcome pack includes a bed, water bowl, dental care kit, biscuits, poo bags, and a toy. malhadinhanova.pt/pt/
Top tips for travelling with pets
1
Health Check: Visit the vet for a health check-up before your holiday – you don’t want to be caught out with a poorly pet. Now that the UK is no longer in the EU, your pet will need vaccinations to be able to travel in Europe. Be aware that some vaccinations are required to be done several days (currently 21 days) before travel, so last minute getaways are a no go. Ensure all vaccinations are up to date, your pet is microchipped, and get any necessary travel certificates/pet passports.
2 Travel Crate: A comfortable, wellventilated crate can keep your pet safe during any journeys. Don’t keep them in a cramped crate and remember to think about the heat levels if you’re travelling by car.
3 Familiar items: Make your pet feel more at home by bringing along any favourite toys or blankets. Do they get car sick? Make sure you’re prepared.
4 Hydration and snacks: Your pet may not be used to the temperatures of a European summer. Pack plenty of water and snacks for the trip, just as you would for yourself! And never leave your pet unattended in a car in hot weather.
5 Regular breaks: You may feel like you can drive eight-hour stints, but your pet won’t be so happy about it. Take regular breaks to allow your pet to stretch their legs and go to the loo!
GRAND HOUSE HOTEL
Grand House Hotel is known for its pet policy
PORTUGAL’S TEXTILE INDUSTRY HAS A WELL-EARNED REPUTATION FOR EXCELLENCE, ESPECIALLY WHEN IT COMES TO BED LINEN, SEAMLESSLY MERGING TRADITIONAL CRAFTSMANSHIP WITH CONTEMPORARY INNOVATION. THESE ARE SOME OF THE BEST
TORRES NOVAS
With a legacy that dates back to the early 19th century, Torres Novas is one of Portugal’s oldest and most respected textile manufacturers. Specialising in towels and bed linen, the company is known for its durable and absorbent products, that combine traditional weaving techniques with modern technology to produce linens that are both beautiful and highly functional. The collections in their portfolio are characterised by their soft feel and exceptional durability, making them a favourite among those who appreciate long-lasting quality. torresnovas1845.com
BETWEEN THE SHEETS
Words: PIPPA O’KEEFE
CELSO DE LEMOS
Celso de Lemos is synonymous with luxury and sophistication in the world of bed linen. This brand is celebrated for its use of fine materials, such as Egyptian cotton and linen, and its intricate designs; the collections often feature elaborate embroidery and rich textures, creating a sense of opulence in any bedroom. The brand’s commitment to sustainability and ethical production practices further enhances its appeal to discerning customers who value both quality and social responsibility. Why not monogram your pillow cases? celsodelemos.com
LAMEIRINHO
Lameirinho offers a wide range of great-looking bed linen that caters to all tastes and preferences. From minimalist fabrics to intricate prints, this label is a real crowdpleaser. The company is committed to sustainability, using eco-friendly materials and production processes. Lameirinho’s dedication to innovation ensures that its products remain at the forefront of design and functionality, making it a popular choice for both domestic and international markets. shop.lameirinho.pt/
AIGUAVISTA
Aiguavista is a name that celebrates the beauty and craftsmanship of Portuguese textiles. Its bed linen collections are great examples of their unique designs and high-quality materials. Aiguavista combines traditional Portuguese patterns with contemporary aesthetics, creating ranges that are classic and contemporary at the same time. A dedication to quality ensures that each piece is made to the highest standards, offering customers a luxurious sleeping experience. aiguavista.com/en
MOMO COTTON
Known as ‘the coolest sheets on the internet’ Momo Cotton is a brand that emphasises the importance of organic and sustainable textiles. By using 100% bamboo fabric, Momo ensures that its products are free from harmful chemicals and are safe for both people and the environment. The brand’s minimalist and modern designs appeal to those who prefer simplicity and elegance in their bed linen. The company’s commitment to sustainability extends beyond its products to its packaging and overall business practices, making it a responsible choice for eco-conscious consumers. momo-cotton.pt
THE PORTUGUESE LINEN SHOP
The Portuguese Linen Shop is a premier go-to spot for those seeking authentic and luxurious Portuguese bed linen. Known for its commitment to quality, it offers a wide range of products made from the finest materials. Each piece is crafted with meticulous attention to detail, ensuring comfort and durability. Visit the store in Alvor, or shop online. bedspreadsportugal.com
COTON COULEUR
Coton Couleur stands out for its vibrant and colourful bed linen collections. The brand uses he best possible cottons to create products that are not only visually striking but also incredibly comfortable; its designs are inspired by the rich cultural heritage of Portugal, featuring bold patterns and bright shades that bring a touch of Portuguese charm to any bedroom. By appointment only. cotoncouleur.com
Reach out
WHILST THE ALGARVE IS CONSIDERED BY MANY AS THE PERFECT PLACE TO LIVE, IT HAS ITS ISSUES, OFTEN RELATED TO POVERTY AND THE LACK OF INFORMATION OR EDUCATION. AN INSPIRATIONAL NETWORK OF SMALL CHARITIES ESTABLISHED BY THOSE KEEN TO ‘GIVE BACK’ TO THE COUNTRY THEY NOW CALL HOME MAKES A DIFFERENCE TO PEOPLE, PETS AND PLACES. TIME TO GET INVOLVED...
Words: STEFF TOFT
ANIMAL RESCUE ALGARVE (ARA)
Nestled in the valley above Loulé is Animal Rescue Algarve. Established in 2018, the shelter is home to 100 dogs and 50 cats, born out of a need recognised by Sid Richardson to provide homes, facilities, medical care and love to the numerous neglected animals in the area. Most of the animals housed at the shelter have been found abandoned on local streets, but some have arrived at ARA because their owners are no longer able to manage them at home.
The shelter has 15 separate areas for dogs, providing variety to their routine, with a maximum of two dogs per kennel. Cats are homed in catteries, specifically
tailored to their age and needs.
Much of the day-to-day work at the shelter is carried out by residential volunteers, who give their time in return for accommodation.
All animals are microchipped on arrival, and all are looking for their forever home.
ARA has a strict rehoming policy. Shelter manager, João Ferriera, explained: “Our priority is that the animals are a key part of the family that they go to live with”. In some instances, rehoming takes place quickly, in others, ARA works alongside the family to ensure a smooth transition for the pet from shelter to home.
Besides the shelter, ARA also has three shops across the Algarve under the name WOOFF, selling quality pre-loved household items and clothing. These provide the charity
with a substantial source of income that is vital to the continued success of the shelter. Besides donations to their shops, ARA also accepts donations of food and is keen to support any events held on its behalf.
They need volunteers at their shops and people to share information on social media regarding animals available for adoption, especially older pets. João highlighted that ARA’s most pressing need is a change in attitudes towards animals alongside better regulation of animal shelters; a long road, which requires patience and commitment. Education programmes hosted in communities and local schools are preparing the way for improvements in animal welfare across Portugal. animalrescuealgarve.com
MADRUGADA ASSOCIAÇÃO
West Algarve-based Madrugada Associação is a not-for-profit organisation providing palliative care for patients who have elected to receive end of life care in their homes. The charity offers a full nursing service handled by a dedicated clinical team, and equipment specific to the needs of individual patients and their families.
Madrugada was established in 2009 by Alison Blair MBE in response to limited endof-life care options across the Algarve. Since then, it has gone on to become a highlyregarded service, which compliments the work of state and private healthcare.
To date, the association has supported
319 patients and families of all nationalities, becoming a recognisable source of aid within the Portuguese community. In 2023, it worked with 43 families, the greatest number in one year to date, and evidence of the vital needs Madrugada can fulfill.
The charity is run by volunteer members who undertake the day-to-day management, supported by a small number of employed staff. There is no charge for the services provided and all ongoing costs are covered by funds raised from donations, membership and the Madrugada charity shops.
There are currently four shops, based in Lagos, Luz, Lagoa and Ferreiras, which welcome good quality donations, including household items.
Volunteers form an integral part of the
association. Ther work includes raising awareness of Madrugada’s role, helping in the shops, and hosting independent fundraising events. Previous events have included afternoon tea, coffee mornings and sports events. Membership is also an excellent way to become involved in the work of the charity. For a small annual fee members gain access to regular social events, creating a network of supporters across the Algarve.
Looking towards the future, Madrugada plans to extend its services to cover the Central Algarve and expand their impact, and is always looking for additional volunteers with skills in diverse areas, including admin, finance and business expertise.
madrugada-portugal.com
BANCO ALIMENTAR
It’s likely that you will have encountered volunteers with trolleys, handing out paper bags as you enter supermarkets across the Algarve. This is the work of Banco Alimentar, a foodbank providing much needed supplies to low-income households. Customers are asked to take a bag as they enter the supermarkets, fill it with staple items and donate to the charity. Banco Alimentar work with a wide range of supermarkets to ensure they receive as many donations as possible.
Michael Ferrada, co-ordinator at Almancil, explained: “All donations are sorted into food packages that are passed on to families from Banco Alimentar’s warehouses in Portimão and Faro. For those families that do not have transport, the food supplies will be delivered to them”. Families selected for support by the charity undertake a strict screening process in order to qualify.
With supermarket collections mainly around Easter and Christmas, Banco Alimentar’s work continues throughout the year, supporting ASCA (Social and Cultural Association of Almancil), building relationships with local elderly residents who also rely on food donations, and working within schools to highlight the issues of poverty in the local area, teaching children the importance of charitable involvement, aiming to tackle issues of equality moving forward.
Banco Alimentar needs Portuguesespeaking volunteers to help with distributing food to the families. And, as many volunteers as possible are needed to take on a shift hand out bags in supermarkets – the more food that is collected, the more families can be supported.
Primarily, the charity hopes for more interaction, between and among communities, to raise awareness of the issues facing families and the elderly. bancoalimentar.pt
NEED, A CHARITY FOR ALL
NEED is a Charitable Group that is very new to the Algarve but has made an incredible impact since its inception in November 2023. Founder Kristin explained: “We went down the route of a charitable group, because it meant we could focus more on the charities that already exist”. NEED organises events to raise money for other charities across the Algarve, supporting work in community outreach, educational support and supply of basic needs. So far, they have hosted a spectacular fashion show in aid of the Mudaki foundation, and an evening with Steve Perryman, raising money for Castelo de Sonhos. Co-founder Patricia Pickering continued: “We keep it as simple as we can, because it’s only me and Kristin: we work, we organise and we fundraise.”
With a mission to provide support and assistance to those in need, all the money raised goes directly to the charities they work with. NEED carefully researches the charities they choose to support, talking to local professionals or via recommendations. “We believe in going to visit the charity to get to know the people who run it, to see if it fits in with our aims and objectives. Once a charity has been selected, they are invited to join the fundraising project, for example girls from Mudaki Project performed as part of the fashion show,” says Patricia.
Following events, NEED revisits the charity they have supported. “We won’t just do one visit and then that’s it. We go back to see the impact of our fundraising.”
NEED aims to organise two major charitable events each year and provide additional support with back to school backpacks and the Christmas Box appeal. The founders are mindful of organising events with as broad an appeal as possible and need supporters to share information about their work, especially via Instagram. needacharityforall.com
THE MUDAKI PROJECT
The Mudaki Project began in 2016 created from a network of organisations that had been working together aiming to increase social inclusion for children and vulnerable young people between the ages of six and 25 – young people who typically fall in the cracks of mainstream education. Based in Almancil, they work alongside other organisations, including NEED, to raise aspirations, broaden horizons and remove barriers to success. Although Mudaki does receive some support from the Portuguese government, in order to fully achieve their aims they still require more, including donations.
Working with schools, too, Mudaki identifies those young people in need of help and finds ways to forge links across communities. Liliana Pereira explains: “We currently work with migrants to the area, and try to integrate them into education and provide extra things they may need help with.” Many of the children struggle in formal education settings, due to issues related to poverty, or special educational needs. Consequently, much of the work that Mudaki does is through cultural and artistic activities, offering a range of experiences to engage young people in different ways, developing their confidence and improving their chances of success.
Mudaki organises a wide range of events including talent shows, and children’s festivals, which showcase the achievements of the young people they support. They also create links with charities that have supported them, including Banco Alimentar.
The association is keen to help the children and young people in as many ways as possible, offering them a real range of experiences. Besides financial donations, they are always on the lookout for people to collaborate with them, such as artists, photographers, or English teachers –anything that might inspire the young people in a new and different way. mudakie6g.wixsite.comCorrect?
What unites these charities is their passion for their specific causes. All desire to see change across the Algarve, raise awareness and encourage involvement. Their needs are similar: financial donations to support the work that they do, volunteers to help where possible and, most importantly, to spread the word and raise awareness of their work and the issues facing people and animals across the Algarve. Volunteer, share Instagram posts, join Facebook groups and if possible, organise fundraising events. AlgarvePLUS will continue to highlight the work of the many charities across the region.
New contemporary four-bedroom villa with a stunning sea view POA
A rare find, this wonderful south-facing villa is located between Loulé and Boliqueime within easy reach of Almancil, Vale do Lobo and Quinta do Lago.
Total area 4,590m2 | build area 299m2
Salt-water swimming pool with electric solar cover, four-car garage, large basement with fully-fitted laundry room and sufficient space for a media room/cinema and/or gym.
Vaillant underfloor heating and cooling system.
Four stylish ensuite bedrooms with glorious views including a spectacular master suite with a ‘bath with a view’ .
With large bay windows, which open to provide a seamless passage between in- and outdoor living, and a feature fireplace.
Indoor dining room with a pizza oven and an outdoor dining area with BBQ and a service kitchen with exterior access.
Open-plan, with Bosch & Neff appliances, ovens, large fridges and freezer, wine fridge, dishwashers and a central island.
MY TOP TEN
IT
LOOKS LIKE THIS WILL BE A REGULAR SPOT, EACH MONTH FOCUSING
ON SOMEONE YOU MAY NOT KNOW –YET – BUT WOULD BE DELIGHTED TO LEARN ABOUT
I’M AMELIA GABIN, a 15-year-old girl with a passion for the game of golf. My parents introduced me to the game at a very early age. Although I also tried several other sports, at the age of seven I decided that I wanted to have golf lessons and joined the Paul McGinley Academy at Quinta do Lago, where I continue to train at their great facilities.
Since the age of ten, when I started competing on a National level, I have accumulated back-to-back Portuguese U14 champion titles, and I am now integrated into the Portuguese National team.
I love golf and the value it brings to me as a teenager. It’s probably one of the few sports that helps teach and uphold important morals of life which go on to define who we are. Punctuality and honesty spring to mind as being important in golf and everyday life.
Through golf, I’ve been privileged to visit and play in numerous countries competing in some of the most prestigious Junior Golf tournaments throughout Europe.
The Amundi Evian Junior Open in France; The R&A Junior Open in Scotland and the European Young Masters in Slovakia to name just a few.
The highlight, however, was my experience in Finland earlier this year where I won my first international event and was able to become part of the WAGR (World Amateur Golf Rankings).
I currently play off a +0.9 handicap and continue to strive to improve my game. My ambitions revolve around obtaining an international university scholarship, and who knows, maybe even the experience of competing at a higher level.
01 Practice Strategy Ensure that you take every opportunity to prepare ahead of a tournament.
02 Practice Session Never leave a practice session with doubts about any hole or tee shot, green, etc.
03 Rest Give your body and brain sufficient rest and recovery time.
04 Warm-up Before you start, make sure your body is warm to prevent any injuries. A little morning workout, but better, a solid routine.
05 Warm-up Timing & Routine Give yourself sufficient time for your warmup and routine (range, chipping and putting) to avoid having to rush to your tee time.
06 Energy & Hydration Ensure that you have adequate food and liquid to replenish your energy levels.
07 Mental Concentration Focus on the present and on the things you can control (routine, club selection, fundamentals).
08 Mental Reset Whatever the outcome of a previous hole, make each hole a new beginning.
09 Post Round Once you have completed your round, cool down. Hit a bucket of balls or do some chips and putts for an hour or so.
10 Enjoyment Golf is a sport. Have fun!
Above: Jasmine winds up, framing a door. Opposite: Climbing roses are a real delight, especially when colours are mixed.
Climbers, cascaders and scramblers
WHY CLIMBERS? MY REASON WOULD BE SO I HAVE SOMETHING TO LOOK AT, RELATE TO AND LOVE – A BEAUTIFUL AND ENTHUSIASTIC PLANT EITHER GROWING UP, SIDEWAYS OR DOWN. IN THE ALGARVE, WE HAVE A WEALTH TO CHOOSE FROM
Words: BURFORD HURRY
IN OLD ALGARVE, any casa or ruina worth its salt had a climbing rose or two. Roses were chosen for good reason: trouble- and disease-free, they rambled and clung enthusiastically, and in spring smothered with flowers, they delighted with their blooms. Double or single they flourish in our climate of dry summers and wet winters. No surprise there, as our mediterranean climate is ideal for roses.
There are some beauties, and a friend makes a point of taking cuttings of the ones she likes. The cuttings root easily and so she always has climbing roses to give away. They are a lovely addition to every garden. Do the same, keep your eye out for pretty climbers and take a cutting or two – with or without permission – for your garden.
Jasmine delights
Jasmines are also very much at home in our gardens as most of them have the right credentials. They have perfume, can be waterwise, and they enjoy our stony soils and the sunshine. Probably the most often found is common jasmine (Jasminum officinale), a shrubby scrambling climber with her intensely fragrant flowers. Mine grows as a bush but is more than willing to climb upwards, twining round the gutter onto the tiles. I love her as she is always filled with butterflies and humming bugs and bees.
Another strongly-scented jasmine is Arabian jasmine (Jasminum sambac), which is also shrubby. She needs a little more water than common jasmine but is certainly worth growing.
I discovered lemon-scented jasmine (Jasminum azoricum) 20 years ago in a small courtyard at the back of the Vilamoura waterfront after showing the harbour and yachts to Liz Harvey (Harveys of Loulé). I liked the look of the flowers and leaves of the climber and so I asked Liz to keep a look out while I took a surreptitious cutting. The cutting, once rooted, was planted in my courtyard and
grew extremely well. When friends saw how trouble-free and lovely and prolific the jasmine was, they asked for cuttings, and she began to appear in their courtyards and gardens.
She is an extraordinary plant. In a nearby courtyard, the jasmine was planted in the same 35cm square hole as a bougainvillea and for years now they have both flourished, the jasmine wonderfully speckled and dashed with clusters of white flowers. She is now in my present garden, climbing into a neighbouring bougainvillea. I first assumed with the botanical name of azoricum that the lemon-scented jasmine was a native of the Açores but she actually originated in Madeira – either way she could almost be described as a native.
Star jasmine (Trachelospermum jasminoides), although not a jasmine, is really worthwhile growing as she is extremely fragrant and in addition, very attractive. She flowers profusely from spring into summer and is often grown up walls and on fences. Her fragrance fills Jean François’ garden in São Romão as it does a schist hilltop in Brian’s garden in the lower Alentejo.
Another sweetly perfumed climber is the Chilean Jasmine (Mandevilla laxa). As you know, most Mandevillas have no perfume but this little South American climber does. She does so on very little water and attention. There is one growing on the fence of a garden
on a road below Quinta das Raposeiras and apparently completely neglected she flowers profusely every summer. We have a wonderful scrambler and local climber in our native wild clematis (Clematis flammula), which although not often planted or seen in our gardens has gained a reputation worldwide for her fragrance and growth in summer. Planted in our gardens she will give you a wonderful cascade of fragrant small white flowers above her leaves in June/July, creating a vibrant picture of snowy white and emerald green in an otherwise dry, dozing-inthe-summer-heat garden.
From further afield
For excitement and untidy exuberance why not think of a Port St Johns trumpet vine (Podranea ricasoliana) from South Africa? Her large bunches of fragrant pink flowers in summer are a delight. She does best in sun with her roots in nutrient rich soil. There are disadvantages – she needs to be kept in check otherwise she tends to romp all over the place sending up lots of tall strong arching branches. However, she is easily controlled. She is an excellent plant for arbours, pergolas and carports. PlantSZafrica (pza.sanbi.org) reminds us that “visitors to the World Expo in Seville, Spain, were sheltered from the blazing Andalusian sun by a kilometre-long pergola overgrown by Port St Johns trumpet vine trailing down from hydroponic troughs on top of the beams.” A quieter cascader and climber is the bower vine (Pandorea jasminoides) from Australia. Her flowers are pink, too, but their throats are also attractively splotched with a deeper colour. She is versatile – I have seen her grown as a small shrub.
I have the original paler and softer blue version of plumbago (Plumbago auriculata), which can be shrubby but can also sprawl and climb. When the vivid royal blue ‘Cape Royal’ plumbago arrived on the scene I had rather dismissed my plant, but actually her paler colour blends more with the lacy, grey artimesias and blue grey succulents around her. However, both the dark and the light blue waterwise plumbagos are worth having in the garden. The Cape Royal would give a brilliant splash of colour in spring and summer, especially if your palette is a bold one and you use shrubs such as a bright orange marmalade bush (Streptosolen jamesonii) to contrast with the blue.
Not forgetting the bougainvillea
What would our gardens be without a bougainvillea or two? My ‘Coconut Ice’ is a star. She was given to me by Maria and planted at the back of the shrubbery because at the time I couldn’t think of what to do with her. She, not having a wall to support her, took matters into her own hands and proceeded to plunge and cascade vigorously down into the riverine gulley below her.
Now, every year there is a celebration in summer of her pale pink and white ‘flowers’ which lasts for weeks. Secateurs are always at the ready as she tends to shoot sideways and up and would dominate the neighbouring shrubs and trubs if I didn’t keep her in check. Fortunately these days, the thick thorny water shoots that used to appear regularly and were cut off at their base are rarely to be seen.
There are two other bougainvilleas in my garden. One planted at the edge of a wall flows in effervescent orange down onto my middle terrace. The other, having been given the courtesy of a wooden palisade, scrambles up and over that and gives me a drift of white with the faintest touch of pink.
‘Pink marmalade’, possibly one of the loveliest bougainvilleas I know, is in Jean François’ garden in São Romão. A mixture of pale pinks and shades of acid orange, she splashes and foams up one of his garden walls. And before she puts on her show a tiny cluster of orange Sparaxis elbow their way through and between the calçadas and flower in early spring at her feet. A nice serendipitous touch.
One creeper I would warn you against is ivy (Hedera hibernica). Her botanical name Hibernica will tell you that she is a native and being native she is used to the vagaries of our climate and the challenges of our soil. In fact, she thrives on them. Given half a chance she will take over your garden. So think carefully before you plant her and then keep a close eye on her as she grows.
My ‘Coconut Ice’ bougainvillea, not having a wall to support her, took matters into her own hands and proceeded to plunge and cascade vigorously down into the riverine gulley below her.
Whatever you choose, could I make a plea to you not to simply think of climbers, cascaders and scramblers as sticking plasters to cover walls or ugly buildings. Choose those, as the song goes, who will ‘thrill and delight’ you every time you look at them. There are some lovelies out there so get the best ones. They will entrance you and enhance your garden.
Above: Feeling blue? The softer Plumbago auriculata, and its vivid sister Cape Royal, both introduce their own personality
t. +351 917 203 850 . design@suzisteinhofel.com . www.designworks.com.pt
Soma, so good
WE’RE TAKING THE TEMPO DOWN A BIT FOR THIS MONTH’S FITNESS AND WELLBEING FOCUS. PUTTING THE SPOTLIGHT ON SOMATIC EXERCISE, ONE OF THE TOP TRENDS IN WELLBEING FOR 2024.
Words: SALLY DIXON
IN TODAY’S fast-paced world, where stress and sedentary lifestyles are common, finding effective ways to enhance our physical and mental wellbeing is crucial. A recent analysis of Google search data by Steven Bartlett-backed wellness workspace provider, UNTIL, found that the keywords ‘somatic exercise’ had a 2,120% YoY search increase in the UK. That’s a heck of a lot of people looking for ways to increase body awareness and improve physical function through emotion-led exercise, as opposed to just wanting to look good in their summer wardrobe.
The rise in increased awareness of self is a wellness trend that’s gathering pace in 2024. Ironically, we’ve become all too used to Googling bodily symptoms to find out what they mean, rather than truly feeling what’s going on in our bodies.
Rooted in the connection between mind and body, somatic exercise offers a holistic approach to health. The
term ‘somatic’ coming from the Greek word somatikos, meaning “of the body”. Unlike more traditional exercise routines that often necessitate sweat-inducing physical activity, somatic exercises prioritise mindful, slow movements that help you tune into your body and the sensations within. They are often used in combination with somatic therapy, a field that combines elements of psychology and physical therapy to address chronic pain, trauma, and stress. Somatic movements teach you to listen to your body and become more attuned to its needs, rather than focusing on trying to get into your tight jeans from the 90s.
Before you start thinking this all sounds a bit woowoo, the heightened awareness can help you identify imbalances, tension, and areas of discomfort in the body before they develop into more serious issues.
The slow, deliberate nature of somatic exercise promotes much needed relaxation and relief from stress.
With an emphasis on deep breathing and mindfulness, the exercises are great practice for those dealing with anxiety or stress-related conditions.
This may help reduce the risk of injury and alleviate chronic pain, particularly in the back, neck, and shoulders. By focusing on gentle, mindful movements, somatic exercises also help improve posture and alignment. A 2020 article in Frontiers in Psychology looked at how somatic practices can provide support for those managing chronic pain. Increased internal body awareness may help those living with pain to develop coping mechanisms that encourage the body and nervous system to relax, thus reducing the sensations and emotions associated with pain. Somatic exercise techniques include practices such as Feldenkrais Method®, Alexander Technique, and Hanna Somatic Education®, each with its own unique approach to enhancing body awareness and promoting self-healing.
Gentle Somatic Yoga teacher, Leslie Possenier, runs weekly sessions in Moncarapacho and São Brás de Alportel, as well as online classes. She says: “Somatics means the mind/body experience of one’s own body, perceived and regulated from within. We call it felt sense.
“Everyone experiences stress and trauma in their lives,” she adds. “We all have one universal response to injury, surgery, and stressful situations; we tighten up and the brain just wants to protect. The brain starts to be conditioned when we continue our self-protection longer than necessary, and this leads to tension habits. Your tension habits may then lead to chronic muscle fatigue, pain, stiffness, pinched nerves, joint damage, and other illnesses such as auto-immune diseases.”
Leslie teaches Gentle Somatic Yoga based on the method of Hanna Somatics to help create awareness of how the nervous system forms habits and transform those tension habits into ones that are more beneficial for the body. She says: “I teach self-awareness because self-awareness is 80% of your healing. My dream is that if young people could start to do somatic exercise, the world would have less musculoskeletal pain.”
Alon Ritter is a second-generation, certified Feldenkrais Method® teacher with a BA in music education. He holds weekly sessions at La Casa Del Corpo movement space near Lagos during the winter months, from October onwards.
The focus of his body orientated movement classes is to become more conscious and present in the body and to be more playful with it. Classes last two to three hours and are open to adults of all ages. Alon says: “You only move through the patterns that your body is used to doing. The idea is that if you come to a somatic dance class, it’s not entertainment, it’s more like meeting places in your body that you don’t have access to.
“For me somatic dance is connected to mindfulness. It works with the lacks we have in our society – lack of touch, lack of playfulness, lack of connection. It stimulates the whole body and revisits important primal movement patterns.” He adds: “Through somatic dance work you gain more tools in your body for how to move and dance. You literally feel different, walk differently, and connect differently with other people.”
1
Aditi Yoga Lagos runs a somatic movement class on Thursday mornings and offers a six-week Somatic Movement Course with handouts to aid your home practice. aditiyogalagos.com
2
La Casa del Corpo is a multidisciplinary space near Lagos that hosts regular breathwork, somatic movement, and energy work classes and workshops. Instagram @la_casa_del_corpo_lagos
3
4
Alon Ritter offers private sessions in Feldenkrais Method® alonritter.com
Somatre Algarve Somatic Yoga teacher, Leslie Possenier, holds weekly sessions on Mondays in Moncarapacho and Fridays in São Brás de Alportel. somatre-algarve.com
5 Soul Sanctuary Sacred Feminine Retreat Cat Meffan, founder of Soul Sanctuary, is hosting a women-only retreat featuring somatic movement, breathwork, and sacred feminine dance. 21–24 February 2025 near Tavira. soulsanctuary.co
A new season is a good opportunity to declutter your wardrobe, take stock and organise what you have. And of course add a few new pieces to your existing wardrobe.
For the third year I am showcasing Maevy collection, a French label with fluid and sober cuts embodying their ‘leitmotif’ of ‘mouvement libre’ or free movement.
Their autumn and winter collection comes in natural materials, loose cuts and striking colours – sunset, clementine and popcorn.
The fact that most sweaters and cardigans are produced in Portugal is the key reason for me to team up with this brand, because producing and buying a garment should be a conscious process.
HOMES: Rua das Lojas, Rua 5 de Outubro nº 68 .
Fa SH iO n and accESSOR i ES: Rua José Fernandes Guerreiro, nº39
Portugal’s civil war... the aftermath
abolishment of slavery
Santa Justa elevator, Lisbon
Duke of Saldanha
Bussaco Palace
Dom Luis I
IT IS OVER 200 YEARS SINCE PORTUGAL WAS ON THE BRINK OF CIVIL WAR (1828–1834), WHICH WAS TO DEVASTATE THE COUNTRY. IT WAS A CONFLICT BETWEEN TWO ROYAL BROTHERS, ONE WITH CONSERVATIVE AND THE OTHER WITH LIBERAL VIEWS. WHEN IT ENDED, IT TOOK THREE DECADES TO RESTORE MUCH OF THE DESTRUCTION AND TO CLEAR THE NATIONAL DEBT
Words: CAROLYN KAIN
IMMEDIATELY FOLLOWING the Civil War, during the reign of Maria da Gloria (Maria II) there was instability in some rural areas including in the Algarve where the new liberal constitution was rejected. A period of governmental turmoil added to the volatility and was only quelled when a political alliance with the Duke of Saldanha was struck. He became the country’s most important statesman, bringing about a new normality when old enemies began to settle down.
By the time Maria’s son Luis I became sovereign in 1861 the country had started to reap the benefits of the outcome of the Civil War. He was born four years after it had ended but it had resulted in a more balanced country with an elected government and a regularised system of taxation. It was only then that the population began to see improvements in their daily lives.
There was a mood of optimism as a significant number of new schools were built and improvements were made to the education system, including new methods for helping children to read and write. At that point only 20 percent of the population was literate and João de Deus, a journalist and politician born in Silves, became a major educational reformer. Teaching and learning increased for older students with lyceums and polytechnics preparing them for university.
A National Theatre was founded and a Literary Guild that sponsored authors and intellectual debate. Subjects such as civil rights were high on the agenda. Women to be given the right to own property and Catholics allowed to marry people of other religions. The death sentence, penal labour and solitary confinement to be abolished and prisoners taught new skills in order to make a living on their release. Crafts such as book-binding, carpet and basket making started to be taught in prisons. Across its Empire, Portugal banned slavery and the country’s liberal ideas became an example for the world to follow. The country’s reputation flourished as its exports gained recognition. Thanks to an increase in the use of machinery, textiles, cork, ceramics, and glass were being sold at home and abroad in large quantities. This new era of prosperity was reflected in the exuberance of the architecture that we can still admire today.
The fabulous Pena Palace, straight out of a fairy tale, was commissioned by Dom Fernando, the widower of Maria da Gloria. Set in the hills of Sintra along with the Palace’s romantic character, the area attracted writers and artists to visit and others to build mansions of their own.
Relishing in the past Dom Fernando took further inspiration when he assigned the building of the hunting lodge at Buçaco. It copied the flamboyant Manueline style that was popular in the 16th century. In the Algarve an original Manueline doorway built in 1570 surrounds the portal of the church at Luz de Tavira. Like the church, Buçaco is wonderfully ornate and reminiscent of Portugal’s golden age of maritime discoveries.
In Lisbon, the influence of the Moors can be seen in the mock-Arab façade of Rossio station and nearby, inspired by Gustave Eiffel, the celebrated Santa Justa outdoor elevator. Other public works included a cross country network of railways and roads and the erection of many steel bridges. Parks were created in most major cities for the enjoyment of all and the treasury was happy having reduced the national debt incurred during the Civil War.
The new era of prosperity was reflected in the exuberance of the architecture that we can still admire today.
Dramatic change
Portugal was by now the envy of many other southern European countries but the bubble was about to burst as the Industrial Revolution took over.
Taking their lead from dissatisfied trade unionists in Britain, Portuguese factory workers, especially those in the textile industry, began to agitate for better pay and a six-day week. Working conditions were harsh and strikes in mills and processing plants became common. Owners investing in more factory engines and other sophisticated machinery were able to sack many of their workers. In some cases the machinery was sufficiently simple to operate so that grown men were replaced by children who received much lower pay.
Tax revenues began to fall and as a result the treasury’s previously buoyant status was deflated. Making matters worse, people living in hardship could not afford to purchase manufactured goods. For some, putting food on the table became increasingly difficult. As the poor became poorer so the treasury shrank. With workers on one side and owners on the other the Industrial Revolution was blamed for causing almost as much misfortune as the country’s Civil War.
ROBERT POOL OLHÃO SIDE STREET (Olhão, April 2023)
MB: “The artist incorporated enough of the surroundings to allow the subject to exist to some extent and hover in time while also being in the present. Again, great control of exposure!”
Some street art is exceptional, and each of these examples from members of the Algarve Photographers Group tells a story. They were selected by Mark Braun who served on the task force that moved the International Photography Hall of Fame to St Louis, and is currently co-chair of the board of directors and the Collections Committee, and a member of the Hall of Fame Induction Committee
FRED BOS
PAINTBALL (Loulé, February 2024)
MB: “I like the way this image merges the theme with the human element and as such the artist herself is also included. Cropping forces the viewer to the face but is then offset by irregular balance around her.”
Street Art
HEIDI BECK
HEADING HOME
(Olhão, May 2024)
MB: “Although a large percentage of this image is the environment surrounding the specific art, it really enhances the work by placing the image of the cat in its place. Viewers can create their own story as to where the cat may be heading. Great use of exposure!”
INA TANZER
RONALDO (Portimão, July 2024)
MB: “Incorporating another artist’s work in a photograph is difficult, but this photographer included enough of the sky and the pavement to balance the composition and went further to crop through the door/window on the right creating tension in the composition.”
ROLF KNOCK
STREET ART 1&2
(Berlin, March 2024)
MB: “The photographer did a great job of cropping to guide viewers to focus on the billboard. Once there you realise that they captured the moment the cyclist paused to look at the publicity. Wonderful!”
The family-run Amesbury Abbey Group offers an elegant retirement in country house style at Monte da Palhagueira.
For those who are looking for the reassurance of constant professional care, our nursing care may be the way forward. Alongside all the benefits of residential care, our nursing care adds the additional security of 24-hour care provision from qualified nursing professionals.
Our team spend a lot of time getting to know each resident as an individual, learning their preferences and understanding their concerns, working hand in hand with GPs and other associated care professionals to provide outstanding personalised nursing care.
Our exceptional care team treat all our residents with respect, dignity and friendship, and our nursing home has a warm, family atmosphere. Each individual aspect of our nursing care is designed to give our residents the best possible quality of life and the highest standards of 24-hour care.
Flip and fold
FOLDABLE SMARTPHONES MADE QUITE AN IMPACT WHEN THEY ARRIVED FIVE YEARS AGO, PROMISING A MAGIC COMBINATION OF THE PORTABILITY OF A SMARTPHONE WITH THE EXPANSIVE DISPLAY OF A TABLET. THEN CAME A TUSSLE WITH REALITY...
Words: CHRIS PARTRIDGE
RIGHT AT THE START, Samsung had to delay the launch of its first Galaxy Z Fold because the hinges in some early units failed. Then the screens tended to crack where they were supposed to fold and the hinges let in water and dust. And they cost an arm and a leg despite lacklustre performance.
But the folding phone category has survived and more and more makers are launching new devices. Reliability has improved, the fold in the middle of the screen is still visible but acceptable and water resistance is better. Generally, however, folding phones are less powerful, have shorter battery life and lower spec cameras than top-of-the-range non-folding phones.
The other development over the past five years is the arrival of phones that flip like a powder puff instead of fold like a book.
The trend was driven by Samsung (still the market leader) with their Galaxy Fold and Galaxy Flip devices.
Folding phones appeal to people who want a huge but pocketable screen for gaming, video and spreadsheets, and flip phones appeal to people who want a phone that folds into a cute and compact shape that can be easily slipped into a bag.
The other trend has been software that exploits the folding format to enable both styles
of phone to be used in cool and useful ways, such as when half-folded it can be rested on a table and used for video calls.
The latest folding and flip phones are undeniably impressive. The new Samsung Galaxy Z Fold6 has a main screen that folds out to 7.6in, almost as big as an iPad Mini. The big screen is used for work and play (anything you sit down for, basically) and the screen on the front is used for less engrossing stuff such as messaging, taking photos, reading notifications and navigation. The front screen has an oddly narrow form factor, however.
Performance is sparkling thanks to the top-spec processor and the phone’s secret weapon is that you can use the wonderful S-pen stylus with it, though that has to be bought separately.
Sadly, the rest of the phone is a bit meh. The cameras are significantly less excellent than the non-folding Galaxy S24 Ultra, for example, and the battery life is a bit restricted.
Doing work on the Fold6 is enhanced very much with built-in Samsung Dex, which enables the phone to connect with a big screen or smart tv to work like a PC. It is very useful, especially for people travelling between home and second home regularly - just install a monitor at each place and take your Fold6 with you to help work on the plane and continue seamlessly when you get to the other end. Samsung Galaxy Z Fold6 costs €2,069.99 at FNAC.
But folding phones is not just a Samsung game. Brands including Google, OnePlus and Honor now offer excellent folding phones at somewhat lower prices. Apple is rumoured to be preparing a folding iPhone but given Apple’s notorious pricing policy the cost is likely to be truly stupendous.
Left: Motorola’s new
Folding phones are not just a Samsung game. Brands including Google, OnePlus and Honor now offer excellent folding phones at somewhat lower prices
In the flip phone area, Samsung’s new Galaxy Z Flip6 leads with flexible software, decent cameras and a small form factor. Customising the front screen to get the widgets you want can be time consuming but it looks good.
Samsung really scores on the invisible features: durability and seven year’s worth of software updates. The Flip6 is on sale at Worten at €1,249.99.
But rival Motorola has made waves with its latest Razr flip phone, partly by exploiting memories of the iconic clamshell Razr back in the dear old pre-smartphone era.
The most obvious plus point for the Razr 50 over the Flip6 is the front screen, which covers the whole top surface except for the camera lenses to make using the phone when closed a little bit more satisfying, apparently. Both screens are slightly larger than the Flip6’s, too. Folded out, the screen measures a substantial 6.9in.
One really neat feature is the ability to control many functions using gestures. Twisting the phone quickly with your wrist opens the camera, for example. Making a chopping motion switches the torch on. Placing the phone face down on your desk starts Do Not Disturb mode. Useful and fun.
Both members of the Razr50 family come with a 50MP main camera with AI-powered computational photography elements in the Ultra.
At FNAC, the Razr50 is priced at €839 and the Razr50 Ultra is €1,149. Both products come with a free pair of Motorola wireless earbuds.
The future is a bit cloudy for foldable phones. They clearly have established a niche, but the huge cost is unlikely to reduce because the hinges are complex mechanisms that are costly to make, they have two enormous screens instead of one, powered by a battery that has to fit in the very thin body.
Think of it this way: for the price of a Samsung Galaxy Z Fold6, you could get an S24 Ultra smartphone with a better camera and an S-pen (€1,119.99 at Worten), plus a Galaxy Tab A9 wifi tablet with a 7.8in screen (€149.50). A better phone and a bigger screen, both pocket size, for less money.
BARRY GIBB
In 2017, Barry Gibb was chosen to play in the Sunday afternoon Legend slot at the Glastonbury Festival – a suitable accolade for a singer and songwriter who had been making hit records for more than 50 years, not only with the Bee Gees but writing classics like Islands in the Stream for other artists.
Born in the Isle of Man in 1946, Barry formed a band in the 1950s with his younger twin brothers, Maurice and Robin. In 1958 his family emigrated to Australia and Barry has said that their years as family breadwinners before they achieved international stardom were among the best of his life.
As the Bee Gees, Barry and the twins (they had another brother, Andy, also a successful recording artist) had their first pop hits in 1967 with New York Mining Disaster 1941 and Massachusetts. The band split up briefly in the late 60s but got back together, and by the mid to late 70s the Bee Gees were leading the ‘disco boom’, especially after their involvement in the soundtrack for the smash-hit movie Saturday Night Fever in 1977. In 1970 Barry married a former Miss Edinburgh, Linda Gray, after meeting her at a Top of the Pops recording and inviting her for a cup of tea. They are still together, and have five children, two of whom work with Barry in his current musical ventures. Sadly, the other Gibb brothers have died – Andy in 1988, Maurice in 2003 and Robin in 2012.
Barry was knighted for his services to music and charity in 2018.
Where are they now?
MUSIC AND SPORTS ARE WHAT WE ’ VE LOOKED AT THIS MONTH. IT IS ALWAYS A SURPRISE TO SEE JUST HOW LONG SOME OF THE BIG NAMES OF THE PAST STAY AT THE TOP OF THEIR CHOSEN FIELDS – SO MUCH SO THAT TODAY ’ S YOUTH RECOGNISE THEIR NAMES AND ACHIEVEMENTS
s 2000 s
Words: JILL ECKERSLEY
ANDY MURRAY
British tennis fans rejoiced in July 2013 when Andy Murray beat Novak Djokovic to win the men’s singles title at Wimbledon. It was 77 years since Britain had been able to celebrate – ever since the legendary Fred Perry! Glasgow-born Andy’s mother Judy was a top tennis coach and his brother Jamie is also a tennis professional. Andy’s childhood was scarred by tragedy; he was a pupil at the primary school in Dunblane when 16 small children and their teacher were shot by an intruder. As a teenager he attended a tennis academy in Barcelona. He won the Junior US Open in 2004 but was unlucky to grow up at a time when he faced stiff opposition from Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic! He managed to defeat Roger Federer in 2012 and won Gold at the London Olympics in the same year.
Like many elite sportspersons he has been dogged by injury but continued to play until this summer. His progress in the Men’s Doubles alongside Dan Evans at the Paris Olympics had British fans on tenterhooks, as the pair fought back from ‘match point’ several times before being eliminated in the quarter-finals. Sir Andy –he was knighted in 2017 – married Kim Sears in 2015 and the couple live in Surrey with their four children. He had announced that he would retire after the Olympics and as he tearfully left the court in Paris he quipped: “I never even liked tennis anyway!” The Lawn Tennis Association have announced that the Centre Court at Queen’s Club will be named the Andy Murray Arena in his honour.
SCHOOL SATCHELS
The leather satchel, so much a part of traditional British school life, may actually have originated in Roman times. Roman soldiers are said to have carried, or worn, something called a ‘loculus’ to hold their possessions, including their food rations. There are records of Scottish monks holding their Bibles in satchel-type carriers. The first vessels students used to carry books and other school supplies seem to have been more like belts, made of cloth or leather, which could be wrapped round the possessions that needed to be carried. Traditional satchels, consisting of a plain leather pouch with a front flap, were popular by the seventeenth century. In As you Like It, Shakespeare has Jacques list the Seven Ages of Man, including “the whining schoolboy with his satchel”.
Satchels were popular among University students, too, and were traditionally rectangular or box-shaped to make carrying books easier. Some had straps which fitted over the shoulders – Japanese and German children still favour this type of school satchel. Backpacks for hikers became popular for British hikers in the 1930s and are still used as they are so practical. By the 1980s luxury satchels by designers like Louis Vuitton and Prada had become available while backpacks in modern materials, often with cartoon logos, are worn by young children well into the 21st century.
Probably the world’s best-known drummer, Ringo – otherwise Sir Richard Starkey – continues to tour with his AllStarr Band at the age of 84! Born and brought up in a working-class Liverpool home, he was a delicate child who spent much of his time in hospital. His parents separated when he was young and he missed out on a lot of schooling, working on the Liverpool ferries, on the railways and in a factory as a teenager. His stepfather bought him a drum kit and he formed his own skiffle group, later joining Rory Storm and the Hurricanes, one of the top local bands. When the Beatles were about to sign their first record contract in 1962, they decided to replace their drummer Pete Best with ‘the best drummer in Liverpool’ – and Ringo got the job. His dry humour, talent and musicianship played a vital part in the group’s international success. He had dreamed of becoming an actor and contributed not only a flair for acting, but also the title of the Beatles’ film A Hard Day’s Night.
Ringo married his local sweetheart, Maureen Cox, in 1965 and the couple had three children. They divorced and in 1981 he married actress Barbara Bach. Ringo took part in many of the legendary concerts of the last fifty years, notably the 1971 Concert for Bangladesh and the Concert for George (Harrison) after the latter’s death in 2002. He now has homes in England, Switzerland and the USA and says that he and the other surviving Beatle, Paul McCartney, are still friends and have dinner together when they are both in the same country!
RINGO STARR
PINETREES
TIDY UP: It makes sound sense
MANY PEOPLE FAIL TO REALISE THAT NASAL AND EAR HAIR THAT OFTEN INCREASES AS YOU GET OLDER, AND EAR WAX THAT OUR BODIES NATURALLY PRODUCE, NEED THE RIGHT ATTENTION. DR THOMAS KAISER EXPLAINS
IN THE NOSE, the function of hair is to clean the inhaled air and protect us from foreign bodies. The ear canals are also to some degree protected from foreign bodies entering through the hair.
Hair grows from hair follicles and these are accompanied by sebaceous glands, through which an oily substance is secreted that also protects our skin – we have all felt this oily substance on our scalp when we have not washed our hair for days.
COMMERCIAL SERVICES
Hair, like nails, are slow growning, on average 1.2cm per month. Growth depends on nutrition, hormonal levels, psychological factors, toxins, and of course genetic factors.
In puberty, the increased production of sex hormones triggers the growth of pubic and axillary hair. After the menoand andropause, reduced levels of estrogen and testosterone lead to loss of the same.
substance. In the beginning, the wax is soft but after a while it turns into a rock-like hard substance.
Too much ear wax interferes obviously with hearing and can cause ear infections because entering water can not get out. The remaining old water is ideal nutrition ground for bacteria.
Waxy ears is one of those slightly embarring problems which are often undertreated and delegated to the nurse by the doctors. There are different ways of cleaning ears, like aspiration and syringing. The first step is to check what the problem really is and then make a proper treatment plan. It can sometimes be necessary to soften earwax before it is possible to remove the blockage.
Hearing aid users should have quarterly check ups as often the function of aids is undermined by ear wax.
Hair in different places is sensitive to a number of hormonal factors. Later in life, the hair follicles in the nose, the ears, and also at the eybrows become more active and sensitive to a hormone called dihydrotestosterone, which is part of the testosterone family. That is why more mature men often have these bushy eyebrows and a lot of nasal hair.
Now, whilst the aesthetic part of the problem may be in the eye of the beholder (though hairy ears and nose are never the best look, I am told!), the functional aspect is relevant for the working of the ears especially. It is common in my practice to see ears completely obstructed by hair and ear wax.
Ear wax is a mixture of dead skin cells (normal shedding) and sebum, the above mentioned oily
Hearing aid users should have a quarterly check up because often the function of their aids is undermined by ear wax and ear hair. All of this can be corrected. There are sophisticated little ear and nose hair shavers that can be very helpful in the battle against overgrowing hair. A motivated helper with good eyesight and bright daylight is necessary to tackle the problem... especially ear hair.
A MESSAGE FROM DR KAISER
At the Family Medical Centres we have extensive experience with the problems casued by ear and nose hair and we are also supported by an excellent audiologist who will make sure your hearing aid will function at its best.
Manuela, a German beautician with 30-years experience, offers the latest technologies at her Almancil salon, including:
Evaluating your investment performance made simple
WHETHER
YOU ARE A SEASONED INVESTOR OR JUST STARTING
OUT,
UNDERSTANDING HOW TO ASSESS THE PERFORMANCE OF YOUR INVESTMENTS IS CRUCIAL FOR ENSURING THAT YOUR PORTFOLIO ALIGNS WITH YOUR FINANCIAL GOALS. MARK QUINN AND DEBRAH BROADFIELD OF THE SPECTRUM IFA EXPLAIN
Understand your goals
There are several methods to measure your investment performance, and the right ones for you depends on your goals. For example, if you are focused on short-term gains, you may be more interested in market price fluctuations; long-term investors may be more concerned with earnings growth and dividends; or retirees might be focused on income generation.
Account for fees
One of the most common mistakes investors make is overlooking the impact of fees on their returns. Fees can significantly erode your investment performance over time. Common fees include transaction costs, adviser fees, management fees, and other structural costs such as management costs for funds or ETFs (exchange-traded funds). For example, an investment that returns 7% annually may only yield 3% after accounting for fees, tax and inflation. Therefore, it is crucial to calculate your net return by subtracting all applicable costs from your gross return.
Simple benchmarking
Benchmarking is a straightforward method to evaluate investment performance by comparing your returns to a relevant standard. A few common benchmarks are:
Cash accounts: if your investment returns are similar to what you would earn with cash holdings, you might question whether the market risk or additional advice fees are worth it.
Inflation: Consider the impact of inflation on your real returns. For example, if your portfolio returns 4% but inflation is running at 3%, your real return is just 1%. Is this the outcome you expected?
Market Indexes: Market indexes, like the S&P 500 or Dow Jones, represent the performance of specific segments of the market. Comparing your portfolio’s performance to a relevant index can provide insights into how well your investments are performing relative to the broader market. However, ensure you are comparing apples to apples—for example, comparing a globally diversified portfolio to the Dow Jones, which only tracks U.S. stocks, may not provide an accurate assessment. Peer Group Indexes: These indexes group companies or funds with similar characteristics, such as industry or market capitalization. By comparing your investment to a peer group index, you can evaluate how well your holdings are performing against similar investments.
Risk-adjusted returns
While raw returns are important, they do not tell the whole story and it is equally important to assess the risk taken to achieve those returns, ie risk-adjusted performance metrics: Sharpe Ratio: this measures the return of an investment relative to its risk. A higher Sharpe ratio indicates a more favourable risk-adjusted return and is particularly useful for comparing investments with different levels of risk.
Sortino Ratio: this differentiates between upside and downside volatility, focusing only on the downside risk. This makes it a better measure for risk-averse investors.
Beta: this measures the volatility of an investment relative to the market. A beta greater than 1 indicates higher volatility, while a beta lower than 1 indicates lower volatility. Understanding beta can help you gauge how much market risk your portfolio carries.
Long term consistency and performance
Past performance is not always indicative of future results, so stay vigilant and adaptable as market conditions change; evaluating the consistency of your investments is key to longterm success.
Quartile rankings, which compare the performance of funds within the same category, can help you identify patterns of consistent performance. Funds or investments that consistently perform in the top quartile of their peer group may indicate a strong and reliable investment.
Long-term performance analysis is also vital. Look beyond short-term fluctuations and assess how your investments have performed over several years. This will give you a clearer picture of their resilience and potential for growth.
ASK THE EXPERTS
With over 35 years’ experience, Debrah Broadfield and Mark Quinn are Chartered Financial Planners (level 6) and Tax Advisers specialising in cross-border advice for expatriates in Portugal on financial and tax planning issues.
REMOVALS
REMOVALS
• Weekly removal service to and from the UK, Portugal and Malaga, Spain
STORAGE
• Weekly removal service to and from the UK, Portugal and Malaga, Spain
• Full or part packing and wrapping service
STORAGE
• Storage warehouses located in the UK, Algarve, Lisbon and Malaga, Spain
• Storage warehouses located in the UK, Algarve, Lisbon and Malaga, Spain
• Shop online with any furniture retailer and have your items delivered the following week
• Shop online with any furniture retailer have your items delivered the following
• Full or part packing and wrapping service
• Fully insured, secure and alarmed
• Fully insured, secure and alarmed
• One/multiple items of furniture
• One/multiple items of furniture
• One box to full house removals
• One box to full house removals
• Villa to villa moves within the Algarve
• Storage available for long or short term
• Villa to villa moves within the Algarve
• Storage available for long or short term
• All customs paperwork and procedures taken care by our in house customs experts
Your money
RICARDO CHAVES OF ALL FINANCE MATTERS IS HERE TO HELP PEOPLE UNDERSTAND AND DEAL WITH WHAT IS ALLOWABLE – AND NOT – WHEN IT COMES TO FINANCIAL MATTERS IN PORTUGAL. PROPERTY OWNERS WHO RUN A BUSINESS FROM HOME UNDERSTANDABLY HAVE QUESTIONS ABOUT WHAT EXPENSES CAN BE LEGITIMATELY CHARGED TO TAX
QWhat is the accepted rate of pay for domestic workers – ie maids, gardeners, etc? If you hire them as individuals rather than through an agency or company, is the rate the same and what paperwork is needed? My office is registered at my home address, therefore are those costs chargeable to my business?
According to some internet portals, the accepted rate of pay for domestic workers is around €10 per hour minimum, but it varies depending on the season, the area of the Algarve, the complexity of the work, and the years of experience a worker has.
You should be aware that the law changed in May 2023, and employers of domestic workers in Portugal have new obligations, the objective of these changes being to strengthen the social protection of these individuals.
There needs to be a written employment contract (it can be for a fixed-term or indefinite), which should include basic information such as the employer’s and worker’s identification, the employee’s service duration, the tasks they are expected to perform, the work location, remuneration, and days off and holidays.
Employers are also required to contribute to Social Security on behalf of domestic workers and failure to declare each individual’s position and employment terms is now considered a crime, and as such is subject to imprisonment or heavy fines.
However, the good news is that employers can deduct these expenses from their Individual Income Tax (IRS). Please consult with us for details and benefits.
QHow does the school fees system work here?
Can one get a special rate under specific circumstances, like if a child in question (who is 11 years old) is particularly strong in sports? Also, is it advantageous in any way if the year’s fees are paid upfront rather than each term?
In Portugal, the education system includes both public and private schools. Public schools are free, of course, and the primary educational language is Portuguese, although English is also part of the established curriculum.
In some public schools, Portuguese lessons are also possible for those for whom Portuguese is not necessarily their first language.
Expats normally register their children in international private schools, which in most cases offer instruction in their native language. Private schools will charge you a fee for this. There is no tradition of special rates – bursaries –for those excelling in sports.
Some private schools may offer scholarships or discounts based on merit or financial need, but it is advisable to inquire directly at the school/s you are considering. And yes, some schools do offer special rates if you pay the fees for the year upfront.
QAre all electrical goods used for my business – television, computer, phones, etc – tax deductable? I work from home in a dedicated office space but the TV would be in the living area. This is a very common question, and clients need to understand that although they work from home and may need space, electricity, internet, electrical goods, etc, some of these are also required and used for their normal living. This means that there is a thin line on the deductibility of some of the costs.
So, when an expense benefits your personal life as well as your business life, it’s unlikely that any tax inspector would accept that this expense is essential for your business. However, in the case of electrical goods such as computers and phones, you should be able to justify that these are used exclusively for the business.
It is important you know that according to recent tax rulings, if your main residency is also the head office of your company, there may be tax implications should you decide to sell the property as it may not qualify for the reinvestment, and your capital gains tax can be higher than the usual accepted figures.
PLEASE NOTE: tax laws can be complex and change frequently, so it’s always a good idea to consult with a tax professional or legal advisor for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Send questions you may have to info@afm.tax for possible inclusion in AlgarvePLUS. To consult directly with the experts at AFM, email info@afm.tax
QIf you hear that dogs and cats are being mistreated in a particular sanctuary/kennel, who does one go to in order to place a complaint?
AYou cannot do something based on hearing that animals are being mistreated, but you certainly can do a lot legally if they are in fact being mistreated. Gathering evidence is crucial, such as photos, videos, witnesses’ statements.
There are two main authorities that can act: the GNR has a specialised department –SEPNA (Serviço de Proteção da Natureza e do Ambiente), within its jurisdiction, and the PSP (Polícia de Segurança Pública). Cruelty towards animals is a crime in Portugal, and the police have a specific programme created in 2015 to deal with these matters, Programa de Defesa Animal.
All municipalities in Portugal have a municipal veterinary who oversees animal welfare, and can inspect and report to the authorities, if he/she cannot solve a matter themselves. There are also associations and organisations dedicated to animal protection that can act as ‘whistle blowers’ to the authorities. These include Sociedade Protectora dos Animais and the Associação de Animais de Rua.
From our experience, police authorities act promptly and go on site within a reasonable timeline. However, one has to remember that the care and love we give our pets is probably far greater than what is required for their survival according to the law. The latter states that animals are not subject to cruel acts, and are treated with the care required for their existence within
GOING LEGAL
LEGAL EXPERTS NELSON RAMOS AND ROBERTA RAMOS WHO, TOGETHER WITH THEIR SPECIALIST TEAM AT RAMOS & ASSOCIADOS IN ALMANCIL, ADVISE CLIENTS ON FAR-REACHING QUESTIONS. THIS MONTH, THEY LOOK AT ANIMAL PROTECTION AND ALSO THE LEGALITY OF PARKING MOBILE HOMES IN NON-DESIGNATED AREAS
their specific circumstances.
This does not mean animals are not duly protected by law; on the contrary, authorities are not shy about applying the law to whoever mistreats animals, even celebrities. This was the case of one of Portugal’s most famous bullfighters who was found guilty this year of mistreating dogs on his farm by not feeding them properly.
He received four years of suspended prison sentence, had to pay €3,000 to animal protection associations which took his dogs, and was forbidden by the court to have pets for a period of five years.
QIn Portugal, can mobile homes be legally parked in a bay on a road in the countryside that is surely there for local residents? Surely there are allocated spots they can go to? How does one report them and get them to move elsewhere?
AAs stated in other editions, landscape protection is an area in which, we firmly believe, Portugal could and should do better. This applies in particular to touristic areas such as the Algarve, where citizens, residents and the public in general must be more proactive in reporting these situations to the authorities, so that awareness grows, and we can all benefit from a cleaner and better organised landscape.
Mobile homes and caravan parking is regulated by national and municipal regulations, which specify that camping parks should be used for caravans and that mobile homes should be restricted to designated parking areas. Some rural areas,
particularly those in natural parks and coastal areas, have stricter rules forbidding mobile homes parking outside the dedicated spots. Violation of these rules give the authorities the right to tow away mobile homes and impose fines for illegal parking.
In Portugal, and the Algarve in particular, there is a network of authorised parking camps and areas, some of them with water, electricity, waste disposal and bathrooms.
You can report illegally parked mobile homes to the municipal authorities and also the police authority – the GNR or the PSP.
We advise that you should report the problem of a wrongly parked vehicle to as many authorities as possible that cover the area, and also make them aware that the others have been notified. By publicising that your complaint has been shared, the different authorities may communicate with each other and collectively that will be far more effective than as separate groups.
The environment protection authorities should be informed as well, specially if the mobile home is parked in a protected area, in which case the power to the environment protection authorities is higher.
We have found that municipal authorities in this type of situation waste no time issuing a warning. We would advise that the police authorities are informed as well, as the combination of the municipality and the police leads to more effective action; the intervention of the police can and often is a factor which leads the transgressors to comply voluntarily with no need for towing.
Email questions for Ramos Associados to martin@algarveplusmagazine.com
Italian Dining Experience & Lifestyle Destination
Set
Algarve'sPremier
ERNST FOLL
O corpo da dança Rua Capitão João Carlos Mendonça 23, 8700-375 Olhão 965 755 769
On Now
Unknown Works by the late German artist Foll, who lived in the studio between 2016 and his death in 2023.
CHRISTIAN CHAIZE
In The Pink, Quinta Shopping 289 462 320
In The Pink: Art Advisory is currently exhibiting a selection of Christian Chaize’s work from his Praia Piquinia collection. This additional location provides the opportunity for discerning photography aficionados to explore the works that enhance their collections or simply dress their homes.
CHARLIE HOLT
Santo António Convent, Loulé, 26 September to 2 November In Palimsesto, all the walls of the convent will be collaged with big posters and the work on show will be hung on those ‘dressed’ walls. This wild and wonderful exhibition is a retrospective, which will include many different series of Charlie’s, from Ladakh to Morroco, Votives, Backwards Archaeology, Aleixo postcards and more.
C1 Broker Art Project Av. Duarte Pacheco 13 R/CH 8135-104 Almancil 289 392 452 jessicadunnart.com 1 September–18 October Jessica will be exhibiting a selection of her abstract landscapes. The Art Project is a philanthropic venture by C1 Broker, Corretora de Seguros, to promote contemporary artists of abstract and pop art in Portugal. The gallery space features carefully selected pieces to create curated exhibitions offering a dynamic and ever-evolving experience for art enthusiasts and the curious alike.
14 September, 21h00
CANÇÕES DE (PARA) LIBERDADE Half a century ago, two songs, ‘of’ and ‘for’ freedom, were sung in two corners of the world: Portugal and Brazil. In Portugal one could hear the chant of Freedom; in Brazil, they were singing for Freedom. The Revolution of 25 April came ten years after the April Military Coup of 1964 in Brazil. Since that time, freedom has never been as threatened as it is today. Nani Medeiros, João Pita, and Fernando Baggio introduce songs of (for) Freedom in this 50th anniversary year of the Carnation Revolution.
MUSIC
República 14, Olhão
republica14.pt, reservas@republica14.pt
20 September, 21h00
FADO NIGHT Ana Margarida Prado comes to República to perform a Fado Night and present Laço, the album that marks her debut as a recording artist. It features 17 tracks with contributions from renowned authors and composers with the lyricist João Monge. The repertoire includes traditional Fados as well as compositions by artists such as Agir, Luísa Sobral, Marco Oliveira, Pedro de Castro, Bernardo Couto, Vitorino, and Mário Laginha. Ana Margarida will be accompanied by Bernardo Couto on the Portuguese guitar, João Filipe on the classical guitar and Daniel Pinto on the bass.
Amigos de Música
amigosdemusica.org, For more information and concert programmes, visit the website. 10 and 12 September
The new Amigos new season kicks off with two concerts featuring a well-known duo from Germany, Holger Groschopp, piano, and Adele Bitter, violoncello. For membership enquiries contact helga.hampton@gmail. com but be aware that there is a waiting list as seating in the Os Agostas auditorium is limited.
28 September, 21h00
THE MIRANDAS Inês Miranda, vocals and guitar, Ivo Ferreira, guitar, Luís Caracinha, bass, Gabriel Costa, keyboard and Ruben Azevedo, drums have been gaining attention on the local music scene with their fusion of blues, rock, soul, and psychedelic rock. Drawing inspiration from the 60s and 70s, their music is a mesmerising mix of homage to the past and a bold step into the very future of rock and roll.
BELLA ACAPELLA
Open rehearsal for new members
4 September, 19h30 bellaacapella.pt for details
ANA LAÍNS
FADO WITH IDENTITY
Vale do Lobo Tennis Academy valedolobo.com
7 September, 20h30
With a voice full of musical and poetic landscapes, Ana Laíns takes to the world’s stages much more than the drama of Fado. Tickets for all concerts are available on the Vale do Lobo website, and also at the resort’s main reception, with a special discount for Resort Members.
FESTIVAL F
Vila Adentro, Faro old town 5-7 September, 18h00 till really late
This cultural initiative brings together established and emerging artists from the Portuguese music scene. The event includes standup comedy, plastic and performing arts, handicrafts and street food. One-day ticket, €20; weekly pass, €45 if bought in advance. ticketline.sapo.pt/ pt/evento/festival-f-85397
CANDLELIGHT SUMMER COLDPLAY VS IMAGINE DRAGONS
Hotel Vila Galé, Lagos 14 September feverup.com/pt/algarve/ to book
Museu do Traje
São Brás admin@amigosdomuseu.com
TAREJA BLUES BAND
8 September, 16h00
In the garden with a BBQ to raise funds for the SBA Volunteer Fire Brigade. Tickets €12 (Amigos €10)
The typical German festival atmosphere is recreated in the genuine ‘beer garden’ managed by Vila Vita Parc, with tons of fun, live music, and a menu full of Bavarian delicacies served at the usual long tables.
The weissbier from Erdinger – one of the most respected German breweries and partner in the event - is one of the stars of the festival.
DRIED FRUIT FAIR
João Campos car park in Paderne 28-29 September, 16h00
Organised by Women of Loulé and hosted by Anantara Vilamoura Algarve Resort, the event is part of Breast Cancer Awareness Month. All funds raised will go to Associação Oncológica do Algarve (AOA).
A celebration of the autumnal equinox in an evening of art and story featuring several artists and fantastic food by Chef Francesco and Francesca of Artgarve. Alicia will be doing a short reading from her new book The Shaman’s Wife, and signing copies.
Lobo Palace, Loulé
And finally
A BIGGER SPLASH. THE KIDS CAN ’ T WAIT TO GET IN THE POOL, BUT ANTHONY MARTIN CAN ’ T WAIT TO COME UP WITH A GOOD REASON NOT TO. INSTEAD, HE ’ S DISCOVERING ALL SORTS OF NEW INTERESTS – IN SEARCH OF THAT STREAMLINED BODY ACHIEVABLE FROM A CHAIR RATHER THAN A DIVING BOARD
IALMOST GAVE IN today but it’s extremely hard to break a habit of five years. Five years of waking up at 7am on a summer’s morning to a flawless blue sky, an exterior thermometer reading of 28 degrees, and without a sound to be heard, the leaves on the trees absolutely still. You don’t need to look at the forecast to know that the day is going to be a scorcher.
That is when I lie there and ponder, but only for a moment, as the decision can be made at any time, and in my heart of hearts, I know what the answer will be. After all, why should I change my habits just because eventually I will feel better, healthier and fitter. We live in an age of instant gratification, an era of ‘I want it now’ – or in my case, I don’t want it now.
‘It’ is the bloody great hole we dug in the ground 35 years ago. The hole that, for 35 years we have filled with money.
The hole that for 35-years’worth of Friday mornings, someone has arrived, removed leaves, cleaned it and checked the chemical levels until it has been deemed suitable to jump into and paddle around shouting, if you’re a guest: “Oh it’s wonderful, you are so lucky”; or if you are a pool owner: “I prefer mine at 24 degrees”.
out. Normally their car is barely through the gates before semi-naked grandchildren, rucksacks thrown aside, are in the pool shouting for me to join them.
My thoughts will be all over the place. Is swimming like riding a bicycle – you never forget how to do it?
Where are my swimming trunks and have the moths got to them? And, along with your muscle strength, hair and libido, does the human body also lose the ability to float as you get older?
Now, knowing that there is a distinct possibility that I may have to get into the pool, and as I am, perhaps, not at peak physical condition, (I can hear the editor laughing already) a few months ago I started watching Instagram videos of exercises for the more mature.
Rather than facing the pool, a few months ago I started watching Instagram videos of exercises for the more mature.
You have, by now, probably gathered that I am definitely not an Adam Peaty or a Michael Phelps type. No, I’m more the walk-slowly-down-thesteps type, gasping as the cold water reaches my waist, and then ducking my head under before doing two leisurely lengths, by which time I’m exhausted enough to roll on to an inflatable bed and float around bored, while asking myself why I am doing this. And as I was never able to come up with a rational answer I simply didn’t do it again. That was five years ago – or possibly more.
But now is the time of year, when the family come
You know the ones I mean. A fifty-something ripped sixfooter with perfect pecs and a full head of silver hair sitting in a chair, fingers clasped behind his head and touching elbow to knee, alternatively right to left, left to right and repeating the procedure ten times.
Without doubt, this is an excellent exercise, providing you don’t attempt it whilst working. By that I mean whilst sitting on your office chair –yes, the chair with wheels. Here I have to thank my dentist who did an amazing job.
And meanwhile my other half is enthralled by a much younger chap with a big smile and matching muscles, who is making all sorts of promises of what can be achieved in three minutes a day. You have to admit it, these self-help tutorials are amazing – as the world and his wife are now permanently glued to their screens, humankind will shortly become not just superbly fit, but also expert wood-turners, hedge sculptors and glass-blowers who own cute cats that can rustle up, in less than a minute, a three-course dinner in a wok.
But forgive me, I must go now. I have to come up with an excuse not to go for a swim.
