DISCOVER Magazine

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Year 7 . Issue 15 . Fall 2016

www.discoverbrazil.ca

PORTUGAL

Special Report

Azores, outstanding natural beauty BRAZIL

Lençóis Maranhenses, love at first sight

CANADA

Peterborough & the Kawarthas, where cottage country and urban lifestyle meet

CANADA IN FOCUS Interview Manuel da Costa



CONTENTS

Lençóis Maranhenses (bedsheets of Maranhão), a national park filled with dunes and lakes in Maranhão, Brazil. by Embratur

CONTRIBUTORS

BRAZIL TOURISM

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Lençóis Maranhenses, love at first sight

Ingrid Coifman CULTURE

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10

TIFF 2016 | AQUARIUS: Sônia Braga in the most profound role of her career

CANADA PAGE

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24

Danielle Marinho

BUSINESS Peterborough & the Kawarthas: where cottage country and urban lifestyle meet

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is a journalist and huge sports fan. From Rio de Janeiro, she has been working as an international correspondent, public relations manager and social media expert.

COMMUNITY Manuel da Costa, a life dedicated to the Portuguese community in Canada

PORTUGAL PAGE

is a journalist and PR, who specializes in technology, economics, and tourism, having in her portfolio Culture TV, CBN Radio, McDonalds and Microsoft.

TOURISM

Gwen McCauley off the beaten path adventurer, writer for small businesses and about culinary travel. Portugal’s rich food culture is Gwen’s culinary tour focus, plus publishing Algarve Dining and articles to numerous social media sites.

Special Report: Azores, outstanding natural beauty

Jose Francisco Schuster

GASTRONOMY

has been a journalist for 30 years. He is the producer and host of the radio show “Fala Brazil”.

A Taste of Portugal

Rosana Dias Lancsarics

REGULARS PAGE

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PAGE

YOUR LETTERS

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NEWS IN BRIEF

is a journalist and Public Relations. In Brazil, she has worked for companies such as Folha de Sao Paulo newspaper, Exame Magazine, Fiat Automoveis, and Embraer. In Canada, she was part of the communications teams of Toronto Pan Am/Parapan Games and Prostate Cancer Canada. www.discoverbrazil.ca | DISCOVER | 2016 | 03



FROM THE PUBLISHER Whale watching, Pico Island, Azores by Pedro Madruga

Executive Director | Founder Leila Monteiro Lins Director Teresa Oliveira Executive Editor Ingrid Coifman Contributors Danielle Marinho Francisco Alvim Gwen McCAuley Jose Francisco Schuster Rosana Lancsarics Dias Translator Rafael Alcantara

DISCOVER magazine’s team at Santa Iria lookout, in São Miguel Island, Azores.

Copy Editors Cecilia Chin Joan Sheppard

Discovering untamed natural beauty

Art Director Bruna Lopes Cartoonist Hemeterio Neto

R

io 2016 Summer Olympics closed with a spectacular ceremony, record breaking performances by international athletes, and a positive outcome in the

Photographers Diego Barros (Brazil) Dave Burke (Canada)

international media. It was a boost for the nation’s morale, uplifting the spirits of

Marketing Rodrigo Diniz (Brazil) Richard Turner (Canada) marketing@discoverbrazil.ca Digital Marketing Agencia Vetta

millions of Brazilians and making them forget, even for just 16 days, the economic-political challenges they face every day. The spotlight was on Brazil’s rich culture, creativity and hospitality! Our reporter Danielle Marinho covered the Olympics directly from the first South American city to host the mega event and shares some

Frequency Is published twice a year (April & September)

highlights.

Photographer Teresa Oliveira and I (photo) travelled to the Azores at

the invitation of the Azores Promotion Board. It is hard to imagine a place better DISCOVER magazine is member of the National Ethnic Press and Media Council of Canada (NEPMCC)

suited to nature lovers. Each island is unique and offers untamed natural beauty. The archipelagos’ volcanic origin gave birth to an Eden-like paradise packed with unique craters, geysers and thermal waters. The islands are the Atlantic’s best kept-secret and, perhaps, they can become your next destination after you read our special report.

This issue also uncovers stunning landscapes in Lençóis Maranhenses

National Park. Canadian Photographer Graham French went to Maranhão state, in PUBLISHER INFORMATION: LML COMMUNICATIONS & MARKETING INC.

Brazil, to capture a paradise shaped with white sand dunes filled with crystal-clear

Contact: Leila Monteiro Lins Email: leila@discoverbrazil.ca Website: www.discoverbrazil.ca Phone: 1- 647- 227-5514 Toronto, Canada

water. You can read about his impressive work and find out more about his exhibition

Distribution Brazil, Canada & Portugal ISSN nº1920-7859 Folow us on: Twitter: @DiscoverBrazilM Facebook: Discover Brazil Magazine Facebook: Connect Portugal & Brazil Linkedin: Discover Brazil Instagram: CanadaEmFoco There are more great content and exclusive features at Discoverbrazil.ca. To get there, simply download any of the free QR code readers available for your Smartphone and scan the square QR code on the left using your Smartphone’s camera. The information contained in this publication has been obtained from sources the proprietors believe to be correct. However, no legal liability can be accepted for any errors. No part of the publication may be reproduced without prior consent of the publisher.

in Toronto.

DISCOVER continues with its series on Canadian cities that stand out for

their economic development and innovation. This month, we focus on Peterborough & the Kawarthas. We also welcome off-the-beaten path Canadian adventurer and writer Gwen McCauley. In her first article, she covers Portugal’s staple foods and takes us on a culinary tour to great places to eat.

Enjoy the read and I look forward to hearing your feedback!

Leila Monteiro Lins Publisher @DiscoverBrazilM leila@discoverbrazil.ca

www.discoverbrazil.ca | DISCOVER | 2016 | 05


BRAZIL | Tourism

Dunes & lagoons, Maranhão, Brazil by Graham French

LENÇÓIS MARANHENSES

Love at first sight By Rosana Dias Lancsarics | Photos by Graham French

While browsing through a magazine, Canadian photographer Graham French came across an article about Lençóis Maranhenses, a national park filled with dunes and lakes in northern Brazil. It was love at first sight. After two trips to the park, he produced an impressive exhibition in black & white of one of the most beautiful places in Brazil. In this exclusive interview to DISCOVER magazine, French tells us about his discovery. “I’ve travelled and shot in many beautiful, remote parts of the world. But I’ve found Lençóis Maranhenses very unique. Although it has many desert like characteristics, it isn’t classified as one because of the amount of rain that falls. Images of the dunes and lagoons haunted me from the moment I saw them in photographs. I knew I had to shoot them.” Graham French 06 | 2016 | DISCOVER


DISCOVER - How did you “discover” Lençóis Maranhenses? Graham French - I buy a lot of magazines. I’m hooked on my own medium - photography - and love to keep up with what other people are doing. I regularly look at National Geographic, Lugares, GEO, Smithsonian Magazine, among others. I saw a report on Lençóis Maranhenses in a National Geographic a few years back and it immediately touched a nerve. It looked like nothing I’d ever seen before. It was exceptionally beautiful. Dune & lagoon, Maranhão, Brazil by Graham French

DISCOVER - Tell me what you experienced on your travels to Lençóis Maranhenses National Park? Graham French - I travelled with my wife for 15 days in the park, plus 2-day stopover in Rio. We stayed in three different locations with access to Santo Amaro, Atins and Barreirinhas. Travel everywhere is complicated because there aren’t roads in the park, just endless sand. The only way to get around is in a 4 x 4 with an experienced driver, though it’s not always comfortable on bone-rattling, rough tracks through the sand. Travel between Santo Amaro and Atins was smoother, as we could go by boat.

DISCOVER - Why did you decide to photograph the landscapes in black & white? Graham French - I’ve never much liked colour photography of landscapes. I’ve always thought they felt like picture postcards. I think black and white

images force the mind to think and interpret for one’s self. They become very personal and different for each of us. For me, black and white is about communicating the feeling of a place. By holding back information (colour), it makes the viewer work a little harder.

DISCOVER - As a Canadian do you see any similarities between the two countries? Graham French - Both Brazil and Canada are countries with diverse geography and vast areas of stunning wilderness. In both, there’s also a tension between managing and protecting the wilderness and its fragile ecosystems against the pressures of development. As a landscape photographer, I think of myself as a sort of “soft activist.” In a small way, I hope my photographs make people more aware of the beauty and fragility of our planet and make them care about preserving it. Lençóis Maranhenses isn’t well-known in North America. I hope to introduce its beauty to a new audience and maybe entice people to visit.


By Graham French

Graham French, 65, was born in London, England, and moved to Canada in 1976. He studied photography at the Guilford School of Art. French’s work has won numerous awards from significant industry publications.

“STAR” CATEGORY ““Lençois Maranhenses National Park is a “star” product, considered a top priority destination. It is among one the most important Brazilian tourism products,” says Ligia Araujo Barbosa, Embratur’s Public Relations Coordinator. The park is an eco-tourism destination and one of the most visited places in Brazil by foreign tourists. More info: Lençóis Maranhenses National Park is located 260 km from the capital of Maranhão, São Luis. The average annual temperature is 26° C. To visit the area, fly to São Luis.

Service Dunescapes Lençóis Maranhenses, Brazil Exhibition: From September 22nd to October 20th, 2016. Location: iX Gallery - 11 Danies Ave. Toronto, ON Hours: Monday - Friday (1:00 - 5:30pm) | Saturday (1:00 - 4:00pm) www.grahamfrench.com. DISCOVER magazine is a supporter of the exhibition.



Aquarius director Kleber Mendonça Filho with actress Sônia Braga at the premier in Recife, Pernambuco, Brazil.

BRASIL | Culture

TIFF2016 | Aquarius

Sônia Braga in the most profound role of her career By Ingrid Coifman & Leila Monteiro Lins / Photo by Felipe Augusto Rocha

C

lara (veteran actress Sônia Braga) is much more than a woman who refuses to succumb to the pressure and dirty tricks of condo developers and leave her apartment. She is someone fighting the system around her, not allowing conformism, loneliness, and greed to creep into her aging years. Her struggle to preserve a 1940s’ apartment building could as well be a fight to protect Brazil’s own heritage of activism and rich cultural movements. Before its debute at TIFF 2016 this September, the drama film Aquarius directed by Kleber Mendonça Filho was selected to compete for the Palme d’Or at the 2016 Cannes Film Festival. His previous feature, 2012’s Neighbouring Sounds (O Som ao Redor), was also set in his home town, Recife, and scored four awards at the Gramado’s Festival in Brazil. The magnificent Sônia Braga gives the

performance of her life as a retired music critic that won’t let go of her memories and own identity. Nominated for three Golden Globes and an Emmy Award, Braga is cherished for her many memorable roles on TV and for her important contribution to the Brazilian movie industry in internationally acclaimed films such as “Kiss of the Spider Woman”, by Hector Babenco, and “Dona Flor and her two Husbands”, by Bruno Barreto. Aquarius is posed to be Brazil’s candidate for Foreign Language Film in the 2017 Oscars (with Sonia as a strong contender in the Best Actress category). The film was screened in TIFF’s Contemporary World Cinema on September 11th, 13th and 17th 2016 in different times and venues. Visit: http://www.tiff.net/films/aquarius.



CANADA | Business

A cottage overlooking lake in Peterborough & Kawarthas

Life in Peterborough & the Kawarthas By Ingrid Coifman | Photos by Michael Hurcomb

Trent University’s Bata Library overlooking the Otonabee River

The community is vibrant. Its natural beauty is breathtaking. It is a place with a unique blend of small town, cottage living and urban lifestyle. Peterborough & the Kawarthas region, located just 90 minutes from Toronto, appeals to those interested in quality of life and work-life balance. Its strong infrastructure includes the Peterborough Airport - Canada’s busiest small airport with the longest paved civil runway between Ottawa and Toronto, and over 65,000 flight annually.

immigrant entrepreneurship in Canada at 36%. Its diverse economy has long been represented by industrial, agricultural and cultural business cooperation. Booming sectors include: advanced manufacturing, aerospace, agriculture, water technologies, tourism and small business.

Creative City

Authentic experiences

K

nown for its affordable cost of living, Peterborough is one of Canada’s most creative cities, with more than 30% of the labour force employed in creative (driven by knowledge and innovation) occupations. The city is also home to three post-secondary institutions – Fleming College, Trent University and Seneca College’s School of Aviation. Over 11,000 full-time students attend these institutions. The region boasts the highest rate of

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Peterborough & the Kawarthas is not over-developed or over-priced. It’s relatively unspoiled, true to its heritage and easy to get to. These unique attributes, along with an impressive list of things to do (see box), ensure that the area offers truly natural and authentic experiences. Visitors can enjoy cycling on the trails, dining at restaurants with farm-fresh food; or discover the vibrant arts & culture scene via waterways by boat and dockside.


Things to do: • Outdoor Recreation: cycling, hiking, nordic skiing, snowmobiling; • Attractions include: Canadian Canoe Museum, Peterborough Lift Lock, Petroglyphs Provincial Park; • Galleries, symphony, and a free summer music festival (Peterborough Musicfest); • Lakes: boating, canoeing/kayaking, fishing, cottaging; • Food & Drink: local restaurants committed to sourcing and serving local food.

Demographics: • 2015 Population: City of Peterborough – 83,410; Total Region: 140,051 • The fastest growing cohort in Peterborough is 1834 year olds – meaning that the region has a growing pool of young professionals and entrepreneurs • It’s considered to be a supportive community for new Canadians. Peterborough has the highest rate of newcomer entrepreneurship in the country, with 36% of immigrants being self-employed.

Marcelo Sarkis: An entrepreneur strengthening ties between Brazil & Canada Marcelo Sarkis lives in Peterborough and has been involved in promoting and strengthening Canada-Brazil relations with Peterborough and surrounding regions. He has been recognized in the region and the media as an individual working to strengthen the local economy by fostering ties with Brazil. A trade mission to Brazil is being organized by Marcelo for the next months.


PORTUGAL | Azores Graciosa Island

AZORES:

OUTSTANDING NATURAL BEAUTY By Leila Monteiro Lins Photos by Teresa Oliveira

Nine different worlds of graceful forms, where mysterious lakes nestle inside the craters of ancient volcanoes. The coast is decorated with islets, true sanctuaries of marine bird life and a lush vegetation that cover the islands, where traces of native flora can be seen. A paradise to be discovered!

I

n June, DISCOVER magazine was invited to take part in a 10-day press trip organized by the Azores Regional Government. Journalist Leila Monteiro Lins and photographer Teresa Oliveira visited five of the nine islands that make up the Azores. São Miguel, Graciosa, Terceira, Pico and Faial. It was a journey full of surprises and emotions!

The nine islands of the Azores The archipelago of Azores is an autonomous region of Portugal located in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean, 1500 km west of Lisbon and 3400 km east of New York. The nine islands are divided into three geographical groups: the Eastern Group (Santa Maria and São Miguel islands), the Central Group (Terceira, Graciosa, São Jorge, Pico and Faial islands) and the Western Group

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(Corvo and Flores islands). Although the islands make up an archipelago, each Azorean island has its own identity, unique landscape, traditions, cuisine and architecture. They have been sculptured by ancient volcanoes and populated over the centuries by courageous and warm people. A combination of Azorean resourcefulness, progressive government, financial input from the European Economic Union, which facilitated development, and billions of dollars in assistance from islanders living abroad, helped turn the islands’ economy around. During the last two decades when whale watching replaced whale hunting, and dairy farming overtook wheat and corn production, eco-tourism gained a foothold, and attracted health-conscious Europeans to the islands.


Population: 247,372 Settlement: 1432 (Discovered by the Portuguese)

The Azores in

Numbers

Area: 105,790 ha Average annual temperature: Winter: 13ºC (55 ºF) | Summer: 23º (73ºF) When whaling ended: 1987 How to get there: Azores Airlines is the only company in Canada that offers flights to the Azores and between the islands.

Cattle: 267,000 (there are more cows than people)

TOP 5 REASONS TO VISIT THE AZORES 1 - Nature:

3 - Soft adventure:

Few destinations match the natural beauty of the Azores. Mountains soar up to the sky, deep lakes formed in craters of dormant volcanoes, gentle hills that roll out to the ocean, and floral splashes of blue and pink daubed on an vibrant green canvas;

There are countless walking and hiking possibilities for all levels, with or without a guide, and great mountain biking;

2 - Wildlife: Diverse flora and fauna flourish untamed in the Azores. The highlight for many nature lovers is spotting sperm whales and dolphins passing by;

4 – Peace and Tranquility: Perfect destination for anyone wanting to escape the stress of daily life;

5 -People: Friendly and very welcoming.

SÃO MIGUEL, THE GREEN ISLAND PONTA DELGADA: The gates marking the city’s entry point.

São Miguel is the largest and most populated island of the Azores. It is known as “The Green Island”. The island covers 759 km2 and has around 150,000 inhabitants - 50,000 of them located in Ponta Delgada, the largest city in the archipelago. It has a mountainous terrain with craters from extinct volcanoes that were transformed into enormous lagoons and hot water pools. DISCOVER | 2016 | 15


4 Must-See Spots Furnas , in the municipality of Povoação, is home to a significant geodiversity such as a volcanic caldera (photo) with a lake, fumarolic fields and various thermal springs. It is one of the largest thermal water sources in the world.

3 Caldeira Velha Caldeira Velha is a protected area classified as a Natural Monument of Sao Miguel Natural Park. This place has a thermal spring that feeds two natural pools with temperatures between 27ºC (80º F) and 38ºC (100ºF).

1 Furnas Regional Food / Cozido das Furnas

4 Boca do Inferno lookout This is one of the most emblematic dishes of the island. Baked beneath the earth in the Furnas lagoon, it uses several ingredients placed in a pot that is buried next to the hot water springs. It takes five hours to cook the meal (codfish or meat) in the warm soil.

The Boca do Inferno viewpoint is a special one. Go up to the highest point at 1,000 metres and gaze at the breathtaking views of the Seven Cities Lagoon (Lagoa das Sete Cidades), the Canary Lagoon (Lagoa do Canário) and the Shallow Lagoon (Lagoa Rasa).

2 Lagoa das Sete Cidades (Seven Cities Lagoon)

By Antonio Cunha

SERVICE: Lagoa das Sete Cidades was voted one of the seven natural wonders of Portugal in 2010. There is a 12-km vocalnic crater to the west of Sete Lagoas with two crater lakes lying next to each other: the Green Lake and the Blue Lake.Lying inside a caldera is the idylic village of Seven Cities, with exquisite architecture, green pastures and a picturesque garden with magnificent trees, azaleas and hydrangeas. 16 | 2016 | DISCOVER

WHERE TO STAY: Quinta de Nossa Senhora de Lourdes: www.quintalourdes.com Hotel Vale do Navio: www.hotelvaledonavio.com Santa Barbara Eco-Beach Resort: www.santabarbaraazores.com Terra Nostra Garden Hotel: +351 296 54 90 90 WHERE TO EAT: Caloura Bar-Esplanada: +351 296 913 283 Alcides: +351 296 629 884 Lagoa Azul: Tel: +351 916405896 +351 296915678



TERCEIRA, A PARTY ISLAND

by Azores Tourism Sanjoaninas Parade: The Sanjoaninas, a festival dedicated to Saint John, when the locals fill the streets of Angra do Heroísmo for ten solid days during the month of June.

TERCEIRA Island is one of the largest islands of the archipelago, with a population of 56,000 inhabitants. It is the location of Angra do Heroísmo, the Azores’ oldest city and a UNESCO Heritage Site. There is always a celebration taking place. An example is the “Beach Parties”(Festas da Praia) that take place in Vitoria Beach in early August. The island`s entertainment includes musical and cultural events throughout the year.

Casa dos Açores tourism concept According to Gilberto Vieira, president of the Association of Rural Tourism, Casa dos Açores offers rural tourism and authentic accomodation for those looking to explore the Azores in its essence. Contact the owners and ask about the origins of the archipelago.

Angra do Heroísmo

Biscoitos natural pools

The beautiful natural pools of Biscoitos are located in the nothern part of Terceira Island, and considered one of the most attactive summer resorts on the island.

The only city of the archipelago that has been classified as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. Angra do Heroísmo is not one, but many cities. The city was shaped by a combination of European, American and Asian influences. The importance of its past, despite the damage caused by the 1980`s earthquake, is reflected in its churches and monasteries.

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SERVICE: WHERE TO STAY: Casa Ti’Jose Borges: (351) 295-517-367 | ti.joseborges@hotmail.com | www.tijoseborges.com Quinta do Martelo: (351) 295-642-842 | quintadomartelo@ quintadomartelo.com | www.quintadomartelo.com WHERE TO EAT: O Pescado: (351) 295-513-495 | (351) 925-470-294 | jcosta@jac.pt Sabores do Chef: (351) 295-512-876 | (351) 965-708-202 | sabordochef@gmail.com


PICO, A WHALE WATCHING ISLAND PICO Island has several points of interest for visitors. Its typical architecture of simple white houses built with blocks of black lava reflects the volcanic origin of the island. The Museu dos Baleeiros (Museum of Whalers) is another must-see-spot. Other places worth visiting for their history and cultural heritage are: Lajes, São Roque and Madalena.

Vineyard culture The unique nature of wine production seen in Criação Velha (photo) and Santa Luiza led PICO to be recognized as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 2004. The grapes of verdelho wine are planted along the coastline and are protected by walls of black stone laid out in currais and curraletas. These rectangular plots comprise one of the biggest stone networks built by man. During the 18th and 19th centuries, the wine was exported to Europe to be housed in royal courts’ wine cellars.

Pico Mountain, at 2,351 meters, is Portugal’s highest mountain and a nature reserve since 1982. It is one of the largest active volcanoes in the Atlantic Ocean.

Swimming with dolphins and whale watching Watching whales and dolphins in their habitat is a fascinating experience. Pico is the best island for whale watching trips, with frequent sightings of these amazing creatures from the shore.

DISCOVER magazine’s team Leila Monteiro Lins & Teresa Oliveira at Pico Island.

SERVICE: WHERE TO STAY: Adegas do Pico: (351) 933-256-277 | info@ adegasdopico.com | www.adegasdopico.com | Fonte Resort: (351) 292-679-500 | fontepackages@aldeiadafonte.com | www.aldeiadafonte.com WHERE TO EAT: Ancoradouro: (351) 292-623-490 – Madalena do Pico (Sr Genuino Madruga) Cellar Bar: (351) 292-623-654 | info@cellabar.pt Activities: Swimming with Dolphins (€ 65) - Whale watching ( € 50 ) - AquaAçores: (351) 292-672-009 | 917-569-453 | Aquaacores@gmail.com | www.aquaacores.com.pt


FAIAL, A COSMOPOLITAN ISLAND HORTA MARINA: The most famous marina in the Azores is one of the most visited ports in the world. Its privileged geographical position has been recognised for centuries.

FAIAL is probably the most cosmopolitan of the central islands and also one of the most beautiful, rising gently through pastureland to the main crater. It has become the stoppping place for transatlantic sailors.

GRACIOSA, A PEACEFUL SMALL ISLAND Classified by UNESCO as a Biosphere Reserve, the island of Graciosa is the second smallest of the archipelago and also the one with the least imposing terrain, with several flat areas and smooth hills. The beautiful scenery of the island justifies its name: Graciosa (charming). This reserve is a nesting area of international importance for its rare species of birds.

Capelinhos Volcano

Ihéu da Baleia (Baleia Islet)

This rare, arid and volcanic beauty resulted from the 1957 eruption. The Capelinhos Volcano was active for a year and increased the size of Faial Island by 2.4 km2. In addition to the extraordinary lunar landscape, there is also an Interpretation Centre that provides explanations for the geological genesis of the Azores.

Peter’s Café Sport & Scrimshaw Museum Scrimshaw Museum is a private collection belonging to the owner of the popular Peter’s Café. Over a 100 pieces are exhibited here, engraved with beautiful sailing boats,seductive mermaids, scenes of whale-hunting, etc.

The Ilhéu da Baleia has crystaline waters and is protected by rocks. The famous whale shaped islet lies next to Ponte da Barca.

Regional Food The popular queijadas of Graciosa (Graciosa custards) was inspired by the centuries-old recipe of the Portuguese custard tart. Other local delicacies include cavacas, escomilhas, capuchas and pasteis de arroz.

Heritage and Culture About 20 windmills stand as witnesses to the island’s large production of cereals exported over the centuries, giving the island the nickname of the “breadbasket of the Azores”.

SERVICE: SERVICE: WHERE TO EAT: Genuino Restaurant: (351) 292-701-542 | genuino@genuinomadrugada.com| www.genuino.pt Peter Café Sport: (351) 292-392-897 | info@petercafesport.com | www.petercafesport.com WHERE TO STAY: Hotel Horta: (351) 292-208-200 | reservahotelhorta@gmail.com

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WHERE TO STAY: Moinho de Pedra: Estrada do Aeroporto, 9 – Santa Cruz da Graciosa | (351) 295-712-501 | www.moinho-de-pedra.pt | João Luiz WHERE TO EAT: Quinta das Grotas: Caminho das Grotas, 28 – Guadalupe | quintadasgrotas@hotmail.com Graciosa Resort: (351) 910-205-589 | a.torres@graciosahotel.com www.graciosahotel.com


AZORES, A PARADISE FOR NATURE LOVERS Higher numbers of tourists from Canada and US Between 2012-2015, there was a large increase in the number of overnight stays by visitors who originated from markets like the United States and Canada. In 2015, there were nearly 86,100 overnight visitors originating from the U.S, representing a 125% increase. That rate of growth is almost identical coming from the Canadian Market. These results were made possible thanks to the strengthening of flight connections by the Azores Airlines, and as well as to new promotion policies showcasing the Azores. Vitor Fraga - Regional Secretary of Tourism and Transportation of the Azores

Azores Airlines is the only company in Canada to offer flights to the Azores We are very pleased with the market acceptance of the new name AZORES AIRLINES, launched in the first half of this year. The brand is becoming increasingly known in the Canadian market. We are the only company in Canada that offers flights to the Azores and between the islands themselves. The Azores does not compare to any place in the world. The archipelago of nine islands is located in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean and brings the uniqueness of its people and breathtaking natural beauty. It’s worth checking it out! Carlos Botelho - Managing Director of SATA Express

Nine Islands, ONE Paradise Think of impressive lakes, stunning waterfalls, astonishing peaks and lush greenery filled with colorful hydrangea pathways. The islands are a place full of distinctive excitement and fun, including bull fighting and bull runs, also home to many brilliant festivals and a hot spot for foodies. Each island features unique sights and history offers exciting and extraordinary itineraries; there is something for everyone to enjoy. Tania Veca - Alitours International Inc. DISCOVER magazine’s press trip was hosted by the Azores Promotion Board | Convention & Visitors Bureau.


Copacabana beach, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

NEWS IN BRIEF

“RIO 2016 LEGACY” Pride, a feeling that will last forever Brazilians are in ecstasy after they delivered a spectacular Olympics Games By Danielle Marinho Yes, the Rio 2016 Olympics have happened. And it was really good. Brazil finished in 13th place in the ranking, with a total of 19 medals, leaving behind a legacy to its nation. More than 11,000 athletes from 207 National Olympic Committees, including first time entrants Kosovo, South Sudan, and the Refugee Olympic Team, took part in the mega event. The first Olympic Games to be held in South America saw some incredible performances, with world records broken (Usain Bolt and Michael Phelps) and new stars born. According to the Rio 2016 official website, 83.1% of foreign tourists and 98.7% of Brazilians believe their experience either met or

exceeded their expectations. During the Olympics, people around the globe fell in love with Rio de Janeiro’s iconic landscapes, from Corcovado Mountain topped with the iconic statue of Christ the Redeemer to Sugarloaf Mountain, the Rodrigo de Freitas Lagoon and Rio’s famous coastline. Rio received around 500,000 visitors during the games. According to a survey by the Ministry of Tourism, 87.7% of foreign tourists intend to go back to Brazil. Brazilians, especially cariocas (people born in Rio), will never forget what happened. The next Summer Olympics will take place in Tokyo in 2020.

DOING BUSINESS IN BRAZIL Ontario’s office in São Paulo achieves two years of success By Jose Francisco Schuster The province of Ontario is celebrating the second anniversary of its International Marketing Centre (IMC) in São Paulo, under the direction of Todd Barrett, Commercial Consul of Ontario in Brazil (photo). IMC is one of the 11 units that provide an on-the-ground presence in high-potential markets, helping Ontario grow their exports, while promoting the province as an investment destination. As the world’s sixth largest economy and a member of BRIC, Brazil is targeted by Ontario for its rapid economic growth. The country`s economy is generating strong demand in areas where the province has expertise, including infrastructure development,

information technology, agro-food, mining equipment and services, and financial services. IMC’s presence in São Paulo is increasing the partnerships between Ontario and Brazil. “There are countless opportunities for Brazilian companies to invest or partner with businesses in Ontario. Many foreign companies use Ontario as their gateway into North America. The lower costs in comparison with countries such as the USA, the easiness to export to the rest of the world and the efficient process to establish a company here are very attractive to firms interested in expanding to North America”, Commercial Consul of Ontario in Brazil, Todd Barrett adds. More info: Interested companies can obtain more information at www.investiontario.com.

Brazil’s Independence Day celebrations The Consul General of Brazil, Ana Lélia Beltrame. and the City Coucillor - Ward 18 for Davenport, Ana Bailão, invited the Brazilian and Portuguese community for a ceremonial raising of the Brazilian Flag at Toronto City Hall on Wednesday September 7, 2016 at 4:30pm in recognition of the 194th Anniversary of Brazil’s Independence Day celebrations. 22 | 2016 | DISCOVER


NEWS IN BRIEF Doing Business in Canada During the spring, Spark Innovation Centre hosted five companies from Brazil for its first International Soft Landing “Touchdown” Program in partnership with the Region of Durham. These five companies learned all about doing business in Canada from Spark Centre advisors and partners, and about the numerous resources available in Durham Region. The five companies from Brazil: Menvia, Twist Systems, PETREC, Engeltec, IEK Sistemas Electronicos.

Celebrating Canada’s multicultural heritage On August 21st DISCOVER magazine celebrated Canada’s multicultural heritage at the CNE (Canadian National Exhibition) in Toronto. The official booth of the National Ethnic Press and Media Council of Canada (NEPMCC) was opened by NEPMCC president Thomas Saras (right) and members, CNE president Brian Ashton (centre), and MP for Eglinton-Lawrence Marco Mendicion (left).

LIUNA 183 Jack Oliveira is among the most influential people in the Portuguese Canadian community The Business Manager of the largest construction union in North America, Jack Oliveira (photo / front right), is recognized as one of the most influential Portuguese-speaking representatives in Canada’s political and social scene today. Over 30 years of experience in the Union, and being LIUNA Local 183’s Business Manager since 2011, has helped Jack revolutionize the union by bringing new benefits to the local members, most of which belong to the Portuguese community. In addition to his responsibilities, Jack is also an Executive Board Member of the Central Eastern Canada Organizing Fund (CECOF) and Pension Trustee for the Labourers’ Pension Fund of Central and Eastern Canada. Highly respected in the Portuguese community of Canada, he has received numerous honours and awards for being extremely supportive of clubs and community associations. In 2015 he was awarded the Medal of Merit by the Portuguese government in recognition of his work in Portuguese communities in Canada.

Liuna Local 506 expanded training centre kicks off in September LIUNA Local 506 is getting ready to invest $20 million in the expansion and upgrading of its Training Centre in Richmond Hill. The project has been announced to the public by the Union’s management team and it sets a medium-term goal to increase the amount of training programs offered to LIUNA Local 506’s members in various industries. Local 506’s Business Manager, Carmen Principato ((photo/top centre) believes that training workers is the key to ensuring safety in the workplace and he adds that it may also help them earn better. Work began in September 2016 and it is expected to be completed in two years. LIUNA 506’s current training facilities were acquired by the Union in 1982 with the aim of increasing the education level of its members. www.discoverbrazil.ca | DISCOVER | 2016 | 23


CANADA | Community

Manuel da Costa,

a life dedicated to the Portuguese community in Canada Report & Photos by Leila Monteiro Lins

Officially, there are 429,000 Portuguese and their descendants in Canada (Census 2011), with the majority located in Ontario. It is estimated that between 60% and 70% are from the Azores. The pioneers came in 1953.

Manuel da Costa arrived in Canada at the age of 14 with many dreams. He dedicated himself to studying hard and working even harder. Today, the 60-year-old has lots to celebrate. He became a successful entrepreneur and a community leader. He was also awarded Comendador by the Portuguese government for his contributions towards the Portuguese community.

DISCOVER - Who is Manuel da Costa? Comendador Manuel da Costa at Camões Square in Toronto

Manuel da Costa - I was born in a poor farming and fishing village. From an early age, I was asked help my parents take care of my younger siblings. My mother worked in the fields and my father lived abroad as an immigrant. I had no choice but to help at home. We had neither electricity nor running water. We had to fight hard to survive. Since we had no access to school, I knew I would have to be resourceful. I became a self-taught man. I used to borrow books from the “biblioteca ambulante” (mobile library) that was stationed near my house.

DISCOVER - Describe your journey in your first years living in Canada. Manuel da Costa - I worked night and day and still managed to go to school. At that time, I learned that I would only be able to achieve a better life by studying hard. I finished high school, but, unfortunately, my parents could not afford to pay for my university studies. Since then, I started investing in my education. I worked in construction for a period, but always considered my studies a priority in order to obtain better opportunities.

DISCOVER - What events changed your life for the better? Manuel da Costa - At the age of 21, I decided I should leave my parents` house and invest in my own future. I studied for five years at night at Ryerson


University and finally graduated as an architect. It was a very tough period, but I reached my goal. I got married and worked at an engineering company with designs and inspections. After eight years, I felt ready to open my own business. I started with four employees and opened VIANA ROOFING, which I own until today. Eventually, I was able to acquire other companies in the construction and renovations business.

DISCOVER - What elements you say, based on your life experience, were key to achieve your most successful goals? Manuel da Costa - Firstly, it was very important to have learned how to survive in very basic conditions in Portugal. In Canada, my focus on education and hard work, as well as dedication, gave me opportunities. I always minded my own business. Ethics and honesty have always been my compass.

DISCOVER - What’s the relationship between the accomplishment of your dreams and the Portuguese Community in Canada? Manuel da Costa - One of my greatest accomplishments was the purchase of the building that belonged to the First Portuguese Canadian Club (722 College St), located in the heart of the Portuguese community in Toronto. It is a landmark of the Portuguese-Canadian culture and is the journey of those immigrants in this country. That is why I decided to preserve it.

DISCOVER - Tell us about two of your biggest projects amounting to $1 million that were gifted to the Portuguese Community - the Camões Square and the Gallery of the Portuguese Pioneers.

Manuel da Costa - Camões Square was built in 2013 with the intention of celebrating the 60th anniversary of the official arrival of Portuguese people in Canada. The space houses the Luis de Camões statue (the greatest figure of the Portuguese literature) and the Portuguese Canadian Walk of Fame (to celebrate Individuals of Portuguese descent who have made profound, powerful contributions to Canada). There is also a fountain to celebrate the pioneers who opened the doors to immigration. The goal of the Camões Square is to celebrate the Portuguese-Canadian culture through an exploration and discovery of language and history. The Gallery of the Portuguese Pioneers honours the first immigrants who came to Canada in 1953.

DISCOVER - One of your most recent acquisitions was Camões Radio. What does it mean to you? Manuel da Costa - I was not very happy with the news content provided by the Portuguese radio. That led me to aquire Camões Radio acquisition in 2014. My goal is to offer a programming full of trustworthy information, commentary, and different types of documentaries.

Service: Camões Square & Camões Radio: 722 College St Toronto Gallery of the Portuguese Pioneers: 960 St. Clair Ave. West, Toronto - Tuesday|Thursday: 3pm-7pm, Friday: 11am-4pm, Saturday: 11pm-3pm


PORTUGAL | Gastronomy

A Taste of Portugal Report & Photos by Gwen McCauley

Portugal’s colourful history is woven into today’s food landscape. Especially Bacalhau, Açorda, Cataplana and Pateis de Nata are integral to modern Portugal, showing how necessity, exploration, and religion all intertwined to create a contemporary food culture, diverse, satisfying and, sometimes, decadent. I get much joy showing my clients culinary tour in this magical land and one of the great food cultures of Europe.

Where to eat Bacalhau: Newfoundlanders know salt cod almost as well as the Portuguese do. My friend Gary ate Bacalhau à Bras throughout Portugal but declared that Naval Club, in Vila Real de Santo Antonio, makes the best dish. Address: Av. da República, 8900, Portugal

AÇORDA, the ‘Dry’ soup

BACALHAU, dried salted cod

H

istorically, a ready supply was critical since lack of refrigeration and transportation meant that only those living near the coast could eat fresh fish. Back then Portugal was largely agricultural with meat a cash crop, affordable only to the wealthy. A hungry population and a ready supply combined helped bacalhau become revered at the tables of rich and poor alike, inserting itself deep into the nation’s cultural psyche.

26 | 2016 | DISCOVER

Açorda is Portugal’s thousand year old legacy from the conquering Moors. It’s a hearty soup of stale bread, garlic, cilantro, olive oil and boiling water. Today Açorda is turned into a fancy one pot meal with the addition of optional eggs, bacalhau, shrimps or bits of meat. But it always harkens back to the hard scrabble days of subsistence living when simple, well-combined ingredients produced great food.


Where to eat Açorda: Try Açorda Shrimp at Restaurant Abano Address: Abano Beach, 21 miles from Lisbon, on a clifftop near Cascais.

CATAPLANA, the Algarvean treat

Where to eat Cataplana: I love the traditional take on Cataplana that my friend Paulo at Olhos D’Agua Restaurant produces. He’s fussy about his ingredients and won’t make Cataplana unless the freshest ingredients are available. Call to see if he’s cooking it! Address: Rua 25 de Abril 42, 8200-647 Olhos de Água

PASTÉIS DE NATA In 1821, convents had to find new revenue sources by selling this exquisite dessert. Back then few homes had ovens or the finances to make sweets. Today, Pasteis de Nata, sinfully delicious little custard tarts, are ubiquitous throughout Portugal. Where to eat Pastéis de Nata: Pastelaria Aloma is proud to have won the “Best Pasteis de Nata in Lisbon Award” three years running. Located in the trendy Campo D’Ourique neighbourhood, the place offers a delightful mix of creamy custard and crispy, buttery flaky pastry, plus a dash of fragrant cinnamon. Address: Rua Francisco Metrass, 67, Lisbon.

It appears that Cataplana was initially created by fishermen to quickly cook a hot meal using bits of food lying around. Today Cataplana is made with meat, fish, or seafood. Tomatoes, sweet peppers and potatoes are frequently added. It has become a chic dining delight, available throughout the country. As a former regional specialty, cataplana is now widely popular, integrating another slice of Portugal’s complex social history into modern tastes.







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