Tomorrow Algarve Magazine - July 2025

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Sophie Sadler sophie@tomorrowalgarve.com +351 912 176 588

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Editor's note

Dear readers of Tomorrow magazine,

Welcome to the July edition! As the school holidays begin, the tourist season reaches its peak, and the sun beckons us to embrace the joys of summer, we’re excited to bring you a vibrant snapshot of life in the Algarve. This month, we’ve curated an array of enthralling stories that will give you an insight into diplomatic relations, inspire your dreams of adventure, exploration, and even potential relocation.

And if you are looking for a page-turner to enjoy while soaking up the sun and sipping on a pina colada, look no further. We have a special feature you won’t want to miss: an insightful interview with Lisa Bandari, the British ambassador to Portugal, as she shares her experiences with me before attending a military display in Lagos alongside President de Sousa. It’s a wonderful glimpse into the diplomatic ties and history that exist between the UK and Portugal, as well as a fascinating glimpse into the workings of the EU and NATO.

Additionally, we celebrate extraordinary achievements with the story of a remarkable figure skating champion who, at over 50, has just won a gold medal here in Portugal. Her journey is a testament to perseverance and the spirit of never giving up.

For those with an eye on the future, we explore the groundbreaking investment of 8.5 billion euros into Start Campus – Portugal’s largest investment to date. This endeavour is set to transform the landscape of innovation and technology in our region, bringing with it exciting opportunities.

Thinking about settling down in sunny Portugal? Our resident expert, David Woodward, has crafted a thoughtful article detailing the pros and cons of relocating, highlighting the realities of the process. Plus, dive into the local scene with a profile on Ricardo Jorge Correia, a trailblazer in open swimming in the Algarve. His passion and commitment to the sport will surely inspire you to take the plunge!

And don’t forget to meet the fabulous roller skating drag queen, Eubrite, who adds a sprinkle of glitter and joy to Pink Street, should you be travelling to Lisbon in the near future. For those looking to send a postcard home during their holidays, learn how you might turn that simple gesture into something more meaningful through Postcrossing. And there is plenty to write home about with an array of fun and festivals to discover by reading our What’s On section.

So, whether you’re lounging on a sunbed or seeking shade under a palm tree, let Tomorrow magazine be your companion for a colourful and informative read. This month’s edition promises to be hot, vibrant and scintillating just like the sun-kissed days of summer.

Wishing you sunny days with a good read,

Sophie, Tom, Phil, and the Tomorrow team

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A Diplomatic Triumph

When I arrive at the Tivoli hotel in Lagos to meet the British Ambassador to Portugal, the atmosphere feels very surreal. As I walk down the street, soldiers dressed in camouflage and carrying guns march alongside me. Turning onto the Tivoli´s access road, every single car is a Mercedes with a country flag flying mounted on its bonnet. The tourists who usually frequent this hotel in June are looking confused as the foyer is filled with serious-looking men and women in suits.

It is the day before Dia do Portugal and Lagos has the honour of hosting the event this year. Ambassador Lisa Bandari is just one of many dignitaries invited to celebrate alongside President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa.

An ambassador´s reception

I confess to feeling slightly nervous at meeting a person of such gravitas, but then the ambassador arrives in the foyer and ushers her two young children away so we can chat.

“Hi, I’m Lisa,” she says. I am immediately at ease. In a smart trouser suit and apologetic for being late, she immediately comes across as incredibly accessible, down-to-earth, and definitely not cut out of the normal diplomatic mould.

I ask her how long she has to talk, and she generously gives me 35 minutes before, as she says, “I have to put on a frock.” Along with many of the other diplomatic corps and heads of mission, she has been invited to meet with the President.

“Each diplomat has a couple of minutes to greet the president and convey our best wishes for the Dia de Portugal,” she

explains. “And then there’s a dinner event tonight. Tomorrow morning will be the military parade that we’ve been invited to watch, followed by a lunch, hosted by the câmara.”

Images of the President in Lagos have been popping up on my feed all day, as excited locals have been posting photos of themselves with de Sousa (who is known to love a selfie). I ask the ambassador about her experiences with the popular head of state and known Anglophile! “I presented my credentials to him when I started my job in January last year. And then I’ve met him on several occasions since then. He loves Britain. He remembers both of the Queen´s state visits to Portugal, and then he met her in the United Kingdom. So he has very warm memories of her.”

Are there any plans for King Charles to visit Lisbon? “Not that I’m aware of, but we would obviously love that.”

An impressive resumé

I have briefly reviewed the ambassador’s résumé, and it includes some challenging roles and diverse postings, so I am keen to ask her about how someone so young achieved this highly sought-after position. “My route into the Diplomatic Service was through studying languages at university.” The ambassador studied French and German at the University of Oxford. “I spent 10 months living in Germany and I loved it. And I think that’s where I got the idea of learning languages and living abroad. Every day felt a bit like an adventure. And that was probably the start of my interest in that kind of international career.”

Becoming an ambassador is a competitive process that involves submitting a paper application, participating in an interview with a panel, and completing a written assessment. Although the ambassador began her role on 15 January 2024, for family reasons, she moved to Portugal in 2022, along with her husband, two children and their black Labrador, Lily.

I wonder how, as a linguist, she is progressing with learning the notoriously difficult language of Portuguese. “Well, I learned it in 2023 before I started the job. So, I try to use it as much as I can now. And as a linguist, it’s a brilliant opportunity to be supported in learning another language. I’ve already learned Farsi with the Foreign Office and now Portuguese.”

Before becoming an ambassador, Lisa Bandari served as Director of Policy at the Aga Khan Foundation in Afghanistan and as Head of the Internal Political Section at the British Embassy in Kabul. “I was in Afghanistan from 2008 to 2011. It was a time of optimism in a beautiful country with beautiful people. We felt like we were making a difference working on supporting the elections in Afghanistan. I think about it a lot; it’s very sad what’s happened now. But I hope there are better days ahead.”

Before this posting, Ms Bandari was the FCDO Deputy Director for India and HMG India Coordinator. The Ambassador´s father was from Mumbai and emigrated to the UK, which is where she grew up. “I was based in London but working on a 2030 roadmap that covered everything from science to defence cooperation to trade. We also negotiated a free trade agreement, which we delivered.”

Britain and the EU

In a role that I suggest was not so rewarding, Ms Bandari worked for the Department for Exiting the EU as Deputy Director for Ongoing EU Business and Third Country Preparation. The ambassador disagrees, “For me, it was absolutely fascinating. I wanted to do something that felt important and I felt that was something really vital for the country to get right. I was involved in preparations for the negotiations and participated in some of the initial rounds of negotiations on the withdrawal agreement. It was an interesting experience of a multilateral negotiation, which I really enjoyed.”

I try to draw Ambassador Bandari as to whether, in hindsight, she thinks Brexit was right to exit the EU, but with true diplomatic aplomb, she skirts around the question. “It was advantageous to be involved in those initial negotiations, and now, as the British Ambassador to Portugal, I see how the relationship has evolved with the UK-EU summit and a strategic partnership, which is forward-looking, bringing benefits for British people and for EU citizens, including here in Portugal.”

The Anglo-Portuguese alliance

I ask Ms Bandari how her job is made easier by the strong friendship between England and Portugal. “Yes, it´s the oldest diplomatic alliance still in existence in the world, and that’s really special. I’m deeply aware of the weight of history and the friendship that we’ve always shared as our countries. I think we need to respect that history, but also consider what the modern chapter we’re creating now looks like. And I think part of that is our bilateral relationship, but it’s also what we do with Portugal as an EU member state. This gives us the framework to work closely together, on everything from security, to defence and trade.”

Reflecting on the display of Portuguese military strength in Lagos, it is an interesting fact that the British military works closely with the Portuguese military on a variety of projects. “We’re both founding NATO member states, so we’ve always had that link since 1949 within NATO. And now we have it within the framework of the new partnership with the EU as well. “

The importance that Ambassador Bandari places on the NATO friendship was exemplified in June, when she hosted Model NATO, an event for university students that simulates the workings of NATO. It was attended by students from Birmingham University as well as Portuguese students from six different universities.

“The idea behind this is partly to introduce them to the world of international diplomacy and hopefully, some of them will be interested in a career. It also aims to raise awareness of the five NATO institutions in Portugal and the importance of NATO for the safety and security of all Europeans.”

Defence and security

I ask the ambassador if she gets the impression that NATO has suddenly become more relevant in diplomatic circles. “With Russia’s illegal invasion of Ukraine, we all need to consider how we can work more closely with security and defence. The UK government has done that with our pledge to increase defence spending. The Portuguese government is moving in the same direction. At this time of global turbulence and uncertainty, you need to be working with your friends and allies.”

The Ambassador congratuates the Portuguese President on Dia de Portugal in Lagos
Sophie Sadler with the British Ambassador at the Tivoli in Lagos

I suggest to the ambassador that this is one of the greatest challenges in her role at the moment. “Yes, I think the context we’re in feels volatile, and I think that is where, as a diplomat, you think about your friendships, where are your alliances, who do we need to work with. And Portugal is our oldest ally. We are two Atlantic powers who have always shared a common worldview. We now share common values as two modern democracies. We need to work together.”

Women in the diplomatic corps

I would like to know if there are any additional hurdles to overcome as a woman in the foreign service. “Actually, there are a huge number of female ambassadors in Lisbon. I’d say most European ambassadors here, or certainly EU ambassadors, are women. There is also a fantastic network among ourselves, which provides a great deal of solidarity and support. I run a programme called Ambassador for a Day, which we started last year, where we invite 10 inspiring young women between the ages of 16 and 18 to spend the day with me while learning about a career in diplomacy and international relations.”

So while the ambassador thinks that the number of women in the role reflects an acceptance of women’s aptitude for the role, she points out, “I think still it’s fair to say that when I walk into a room, I’m not everyone’s idea of what the British ambassador looks like. So, I think we still have a job as women to challenge those historical expectations. However, I hope to demonstrate that there are many different individuals and approaches to performing this role. And I hope that, in other ways, I’m able to connect with audiences that other people might not be able to, and thereby widen the reach of what we’re doing in diplomacy.”

I ask her how she manages to balance her diplomatic role with being a mother. “There is certainly a lot of planning and organisation that goes into our daily lives. I travel extensively throughout Portugal and serve as the nonresident ambassador to Cape Verde, so I need to visit at least once or twice a year. However, we’re very fortunate to have a strong support network. I think like any working parent, you need to sort of prioritise and manage your time well to do both, to be a parent and to do your job.”

The darker side of Portugal

Of course, just like every country, Portugal does have its dark side, and at the time of my interview with the ambassador, Portugal had hit the headlines in the UK for the wrong reasons.

The first being another search for Madeleine McCann, with German and Portuguese police searching for fresh evidence in the Atalaia area of Lagos. I ask the ambassador how she is dealing with this situation.

“At the embassy, we continue to follow the case closely. And we’ve provided consular assistance to the family over the years. We do continue to liaise with the Portuguese government and authorities as appropriate. But it’s not something we comment on in detail out of respect for the family and their privacy. I would, however, like to say that we continue to encourage anyone with relevant information relating to her disappearance to approach their local authorities.”

I then asked the ambassador about the heart-wrenching case of Greg Monk, who went missing while on holiday in Albufeira and whose body was subsequently found at the bottom of a ravine. “We have been supporting the family of

a British man who died in Portugal while working closely with the local authorities. That’s true for all cases of British nationals who go missing.”

This case has prompted a number of negative tabloid reports on the rather unsavoury side of the nightlife in Albufeira and I ask her if she feels that the unsocial and loutish behaviour of British tourists is something we need to deal with.

“Before I came here, I was actually with our vice consulate in Portimão, talking about how we can work more closely with the local authorities on this. We’re eager to explore how we can support them in improving this situation. I know Albufeira is planning to implement a code of conduct, so we will be helping them with that. And I think it’s in all of our interests that British visitors here stay safe and well. So we’re very keen to do anything we can to make sure that people who come for a holiday have a really positive experience.”

The FCDO runs various campaigns to ensure that, before tourists come on holiday, they receive messages about potential dangers to be aware of when visiting, such as being cautious about their drinks in bars. “I would encourage everyone to check our travel advice for people travelling to Portugal. We also conduct consular campaigns, such as ‘Stick With Your Mates’, which aims to encourage people to adopt safe behaviours and prevent them from coming to harm.”

Reducing queues at passport control

Following the continued negative publicity surrounding the long queues for British nationals at airports, I ask the ambassador why the Portuguese Immigration authorities can´t seem to sort this problem, which is hurting tourism and Anglo-Portuguese relations.

“We’ve been working with the Portuguese authorities to make sure that British visitors can use the e-gates. And as of 4 June, they were open to British visitors to Portugal at Faro Airport. This move is already easing queues and making it easier for both arriving and departing passengers. In Lisbon, we’re aware that there has been some software upgrading, which is causing some disruption at the moment. But our understanding is that this is a temporary issue and should be resolved within a couple of weeks. As

you may know, British nationals have always been able to use the e-gates at Lisbon Airport.”

AIMA and visas

Our time slot is coming to an end, and I am eager to address another pressing issue among British expats: the challenges of obtaining visas to reside in Portugal, which has a significant backlog. The Agency for Integration, Migration, and Asylum (AIMA) has taken over from SEF, and many are reporting that people are queuing overnight to get an appointment before their visa expires.

The ambassador is aware of the problem. “So, one thing I would say is there is a form that you can fill out on the AIMA website. If people need to wait for an appointment, renew their existing card, or permit, they should fill out the form and send it to this email address geral@aima.gov.pt.

“We work really closely with Portuguese ministers and with senior officials in AIMA and we’re looking to see how we can resolve issues. I know that the Portuguese government is working diligently to clear the backlog of cases. We’re in regular contact with them to monitor the progress of this process and ensure that the backlog is cleared and expedited. We also continue to talk about issues, including, for example, those renewing their biometric cards.”

Portuguese culture

The ambassador and her family are enjoying the high quality of life Portugal offers. “The climate means you can be outside most of the year. One of the things I have loved is the idea of being able to visit the woods or the beach all year round and simply enjoy nature and being outdoors. I also believe that the Portuguese diet shares

similarities with the Mediterranean diet. It’s so good for you. And in an age of ultra-processed food, I think it’s even more appreciated being in a country where you can just access fresh food.”

Legacy

An ambassador´s posting is just four years, so I ask Ms Bandari what she thinks she can achieve in this relatively short time. “I think there’s a real moment of focus in both our countries on economic growth and a really important part of my job is supporting British businesses, who want to trade with Portugal. There are really strong links between our businesses, which go back nearly seven centuries, and I want to make sure that they carry on during my time.”

A prime example is the Portuguese company TEKEVER, now a ‘unicorn’ valued at over £1 billion, which has announced a £400 million investment in the UK over the next five years. Several large solar farms are being established and operated by British firms in the Algarve, alongside significant and productive Portuguese investment in the UK in areas such as renewable energy, offshore wind, and technology.

“Energy and climate is another huge area where Portugal and the UK can work together with our focus on renewable energy, including our private sector collaboration, but also in policy terms, we’re like-minded and we’ll be working closely together for COP 30 in Brazil,” says the ambassador.

On a personal level, Ambassador Bandari will also continue to support young women in pursuing international careers through the Ambassador for a Day initiative and other similar programs. “There’s a huge benefit to all of us if we have a more diversified set of international diplomats.

Here in Portugal, we have a huge talent pool that we can nurture.”

The ambassador concludes, “I would like to contribute to a modern 21st-century relationship between the two allies that will act as a firm foundation for decades to come.”

Soup and pigeons!

As I look at my clock, I realise my time is up and as we round off the conversation, we laugh a bit about how the ambassador was surprised by one thing about the Portuguese culture – the prevalence of soup! “In the UK, we think of soup as a kind of winter food, so the idea that you have it with every meal was new to me. My children have it with every school lunch, even in the summer. As a British parent, the idea of giving a bowl of soup to pre-school children and seeing what happens is a surprise. But I think it’s wonderful!”

The ambassador then slightly floored me when she mentioned that she had read Tomorrow, and thought it had great value as it informed English speakers about the events, culture, and history of the Algarve. If I had started to like this impressive lady during our chat, I was now a fully signed-up member of her fan club! I mentioned how interesting my job was, as I had interviewed some pigeon fanciers from Odiáxere the previous month, and I was now chatting with the British ambassador. She agreed that my article on pigeon racing was interesting.

Lisa Bandari is one class act. Friendly, approachable, articulate, intelligent, incredibly well-researched and a Tomorrow reader! I tried to beat a dignified retreat as the ambassador rushed off to put on her frock, while quickly stopping to greet another ambassador who was also sitting in the foyer.

I left the Tivoli, walking past the rows of diplomatic cars, high on having met the British ambassador to Portugal, having managed to cover such a diverse range of subjects in 35 minutes, and knowing that she had read my pigeon article!

A longer version of this article with more quotes from Ambassador Bandari is available at www. tomorrowalgarve.com

www.facebook.com/BritsInPortugal www.gov.uk/world/organisations/british-embassy-lisbon www.gov.uk/guidance/living-in-portugal www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/portugal www.gov.uk/government/collections/support-for-britishnationals-abroad

Postcrossing Connecting The World

Sending a postcard is a holiday tradition for many. A tradition that originated over a century and a half ago, when the Austrian Postal Service adopted Dr. Emanuel Herrmann’s idea for a practical and cost-effective way to send short messages by writing a note on a single card, which we now know as the postcard.

Since 1856, sending a card in the post to loved ones back home whilst abroad is something I’m sure most of us have done at some point, and continue to do, even in this age of social media, where a message can be delivered in a matter of seconds. However, some people, including me, love sending postcards so much that we send them to other postcard enthusiasts around the world as part of a hobby known as Postcrossing.

It was July 2023 when I signed up as a Postcrosser. Two years later, with intermittent spells on the platform, I have sent over 70 cards and counting, and received the same amount from countries all over the world, including China, Russia, Japan, Azerbaijan, and even Libya! If one thing Postcrossing has taught me, it is that we are all just human, and getting a postcard in the letterbox is a lot nicer than a brown envelope from the tax office.

For those unfamiliar with this niche hobby, Postcrossing is a website that allows anyone to send and receive postcards from all over the world at random. Each Postcrossing member can send a postcard to another randomly selected member, and in return, receive a postcard from another random Postcrossing member. This process enables members to connect with people from all over the world, forming a global community of postcard enthusiasts that promotes cultural understanding through the simple act of exchanging postcards.

From the Algarve with love

The idea was conceived by Algarvian resident Paulo Magalhães back in 2005 during his student years. With a love for receiving mail in the post, especially postcards from friends and family holidaying abroad, he set out to create a community of postcard enthusiasts, and before long, the Postcrossing platform was born.

Anyone can join the Postcrossing site for free. Members add their postal details and generate a random member’s address somewhere in the world to which the sender sends a postcard. Upon receiving, the recipient enters a special postcard ID number assigned to that specific card and adds it to their profile. Meanwhile, someone else in the world generates your address and sends you a postcard in return.

This fun activity only costs the price of a card and a stamp, and connects you with people all around the world. Just as Paulo said, “our goal is to connect people across the

WORDS Luka Alexander
The Creators
Luka

Did you know?

CTT – Portugal’s postal service was founded in 1520 when King D. Manuel I launched the Correio Público. Today, it is the oldest company still operating in Portugal.

The first postcard to be sent in Portugal was on 1 January 1878, when Portugal officially adopted them as part of its postal system.

The top five Postcrossing Countries: Russia, Taiwan, USA, China, and Germany

The top five countries for sending postcards are Germany, the USA, Russia, the Netherlands, and Finland.

world through postcards, independently of their country, age, gender, race, or beliefs”. A positive message given the troubled times we are currently living in.

Now in its twentieth year, Postcrossing has over 800,000 members spanning across 211 countries and territories. As of January 2025, Postcrossing has registered over 80 million postcards since its launch two decades ago. The member who has sent the most postcards is Willherm from Germany, who has sent a staggering 40,481 postcards since joining back in 2007. Willherm states that his favourite cards are “UNESCO World Heritage Sites, city-views, maps, churches, and castles, to name a few.

Closer to home, Portuguese Postcrosser Miguel, from the Viseu region, takes the lead as Portugal’s most active postcrosser, having sent over 15,608 postcards since joining back in 2010. In total, Portugal has around 5,821 postcrossers nationwide. At the time of writing, Portugalbased members have sent around 759,756 postcards and received 767,306 from around the world, and ranks 21st on the post crossing charts.

Meeting fellow postcrossers

In addition to sending and receiving cards, some members have created enthusiast meet-ups where like-minded hobbyists can exchange, buy, and sell postcards, as well as make new friends over a cup of coffee. Meet-ups are organised in

all four corners of the globe, and Germany alone is hosting over 80 meet-ups this year.

The last Portuguese Postcrossing meet-up, held near Leiria, was in March and was organised by Ana, a veteran Postcrosser with 20 years of experience. The small but friendly group of 12 Postcrossers met not just to discuss postcards, but also to plant trees to help reforest Pinhal de Leiria.

In addition to the site-generated postcard exchange, members can also message each other and request a ‘direct swap’ at their discretion. This means both members, usually from different countries, send each other a card privately. Ivan, one of the newest members, from Spain, kindly sent me a card from his hometown in Galicia, as I have not yet received a card from our neighbouring country. Likewise, I sent him a card from the Algarve, showing our unique architecture. Ivan said he joined Postcrossing to learn about other countries, people, and languages, whilst sharing his knowledge about Spain with others.

Over the years, Postcrossing has spread far and wide, connecting people the old-fashioned way through snail mail. It’s not only about connecting nationalities, but also about people from all walks of life, many of whom are happy to share a little bit about themselves, even if it’s just a couple of sentences long.

If you’re looking to take up a new hobby this summer, why not sit down with a glass of wine and start Postcrossing. It’s a great way to share the wonders of your hometown with others, right from the country where Postcrossing began. Who knows, you might just make a pen pal along the way.

www.postcrossing.com

Meet the Locals An Ocean Explorer

Ricardo Jorge Correia is a pioneer of swimming in the Algarve. His passionate love of water, be it a swimming pool or the ocean, is his livelihood, and water is very clearly his natural habitat. Brimming with ‘nerdy’ knowledge of the ocean and its creatures, he is fascinating to spend time with.

A water baby Ricardo was born in 1980 in Portimão. He is a full-time swimming teacher at Silves Municipal Pool and the Technical Director of Clube Aquático de Silves. He also offers guided swim tours in the open seas of the Algarve and the Azores.

His father’s favourite pastime was line fishing, and Ricardo would accompany him to their local beach, Praia do Vau. Ricardo was a water baby at a very young age, learning to swim in the vast ocean. His father instilled some strong words of wisdom into the young Ricardo that have remained with him. “You’re in the wilderness and the elements out at sea, son. You have to fend for yourself. To survive, you must know how to deal with whatever comes your way.”

Impacted by these words, Ricardo quickly learnt to read the waves, the weather and the currents. He began to know Praia do Vau like the back of his hand, being aware of the positioning of all the rocks beneath the surface, understanding the currents, the swell and the effects of the wind. He was entirely at home in the water.

Ricardo’s mother worked at the local swimming pool, so he often swam there. Alternating between swimming in the sea and the pool, he quickly became a competent swimmer.

“I began snorkelling at age eight. Using the specialised mask, I was fascinated to see the captivating marine life. Thus, an insatiable appetite for learning about the natural world

started,” remembers Ricardo. “Always a curious guy, I was forever asking questions. I wanted to know everything there was to know about the ocean, its creatures and the birds that inhabit it. I am still learning today. I never tire of gaining more knowledge and have an overwhelming desire to share it with others!”

During his teenage years, Ricardo won the open-water regional championships seven times, and then again twice as an adult. At the age of 13, he decided he would become a swimming coach. Incredibly, to this day, he has stayed on track, remaining steadfast in his career.

“Throughout my childhood and teenage years, I witnessed the boom in tourism,” recalls Ricardo. “Growing up in Portimão, an increasingly popular tourist destination, was a sweet and sour experience. Although it was exciting and fun meeting people from other countries, with the lure of parties and nightclubs, it was also quite overwhelming.”

Not tempted by the drinking culture, Ricardo, ever-focused, pursued his swimming training. At the age of 22, he attended university in Rio Maior, where he studied biomechanics and earned a degree in Sports Training. During this time, he also discovered a new passion for snowboarding in the nearby hills of Sierra Nevada, which he continues to pursue as a hobby.

The sea is an environment that you have no control over. It humbles you
WORDS Helen Daniel

A mentor and motivator

Ricardo returned to Portimão, where he taught for a year before accepting a swimming teaching job in Albufeira. In 2011, Ricardo was in high demand and was offered a job at the municipal pool in Silves, where he has been ever since. “I instruct children from age six up to age 20, which I love! It’s a tough sport for young people, though,” he stipulates. “This type of swimming world is very competitive, and consistent training is imperative.” Nevertheless, the kids always arrive with a smile and leave with an even bigger one.” Ricardo, an affable, natural communicator, liaises with parents, organises events and monitors the abilities of the other coaches.

As the technical manager of Clube Aquático de Silves, Ricardo coaches adult swimmers to win national competitions. A positive motivator and swimming enthusiast, Ricardo is an accomplished trainer who can adapt his teaching methods to suit his students. “Our team has grown from 10 swimmers when I started to 125 members now,” he explains.

Open sea swimming

Ricardo began his own business, Adamastor, one year ago. He provides daily guided swimming tours and holidays in the Algarve and the Azores. “In my coaching work, I must push my students to achieve their best and win. Swimming in the sea, in contrast, is for relaxing and having fun. There is no line to follow and no champion.”

Ricardo is well-acquainted with nine swimming routes along the Algarve coastline. Depending on the route and the swimmers’ level of competency, they vary in time from one-and-a-half hours to three. “I have an innate ability to judge the fitness level and speed of someone from their first strokes,” he points out.

Before a tour, Ricardo checks the waves and the weather. He instructs everyone precisely and ensures they understand the protocol for their well-being. He instils in them the need to listen to his commands. “The sea is an environment that you have no control over. It humbles you,” he says.

Safety comes first

Safety is paramount to Ricardo. He possesses a solid character, a sense of dependability and a strong impression of being a protector. Trained in first aid and fully qualified as a swimming instructor with a vast knowledge of the sea, the novice swimmers are in safe hands.

Although Ricardo enjoys swimming in the sea, he is constantly alert to possible dangers. He carries a mobile phone, and the group swims with a buoy. “In the summer, there is a huge volume of sea traffic to watch out for. Up to 200 boats operate from Portimão alone, not forgetting that there are also kayaks, jet skis, etc. I am always attentive.

Alone, I can take up to five people on a tour. When it’s a bigger group, there is another guide in a kayak for added safety.”

Ricardo has competent acquaintances at each beach, if help is needed, and knows all the places where an easy exit can be made. He does not take risks if anyone is in jeopardy; the whole group must get out of the water. “In the Algarve,” he explains, “there are no dangerous sea creatures. Occasionally, we see jellyfish, so I carry an antidote for their sting. I have never seen a shark in over 30 years of sea swimming, but I am used to taking people out to sea who have a fear of them. I have seen small hammerhead sharks in the Azores, but they are terrified of humans. I couldn’t even get close enough to take a photo!”

Learning from the ocean

Ricardo, chatty and articulate, is a font of information, and his tours have become lessons in geology, biology and history. He is passionate about swimming and intends to expand his business in Portugal and the Azores while continuing his coaching career. “Swimming is not only good for our health, it is also therapeutic as we disconnect from everything else in our lives. Many see it as a form of meditation. It clears our minds.”

Living in Silves, Ricardo, a father of two daughters, loves his country and its people. “I am not a city guy,” he laughs. “Two days is enough for me, and I want to return home.”

Ricardo has consistently maintained a sporty lifestyle, competing in triathlons and half-ironmans for several years. “As an advocate for learning new skills, I recently took up carpentry. I also find time to go spearfishing, free diving, snowboarding and mountain biking. My rightful place, though, has always been and always will be in the water.”

 Ricardo +351 965 551 899

Lisbon’s Drag Show on Rollerskates

Meet Eubrite: She is arguably the only urban drag show on roller skates in the world, and she’s taken Lisbon and social media by storm.

WORDS Luka Alexander

If you walk through Lisbon’s bustling Cais do Sodré district, you may be in for a surprise. Over the faint sound of Fado and diners’ chitter-chatter, Eubrite blasts Britney Spears music from a portable speaker and snaps into character, performing stunts combined with dance on roller skates while dressed in drag.

Resplendent in tight-fitting colourful cat suits complete with a long blonde wig, Lisbon’s Roller-skating diva wizzes past onlookers, navigating the capital’s uneven cobbled streets, climbing lamp posts and performing stunts on street furniture. She has become one of the most wellknown street artists in the capital, catching the eyes of residents and tourists alike.

Eubrite was created by artist Jarbas Figueiredo Krull in 2020 as a tribute to Britney Spears, who at the time was fighting for control of her personal and financial life in the United States courts against her conservatorship. The ‘Free Britney’ movement inspired Jarbas to incorporate the Britney theme into his character, saying, “Because of what she was going through, I wanted to pay tribute to her.”

Jarbas, aged 39, was born in Teixeira de Freitas in the state of Bahia, northeastern Brazil, but grew up in Posto do Mata, before emigratimg to Portugal 15 years ago and worked as a hairdresser before finding fame as the only Rollerskater in drag, earning her appearances on TV in both Portugal and Brazil.

Pink Street

It was during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, when the streets were empty, that Eubrite was born. With more space to work with, she used the mostly abandoned streets to dance and play music, later adding roller skates to zip around the city and bring a little happiness to the odd onlooker in a time of uncertainty. Eubrite explained that she became a symbol of happiness as described in Portuguese media, and that “while the world didn’t know what was going to happen, I was there dancing and bringing joy to people”.

Starting out on Rua Augusta in the downtown area of the capital, she can now mainly be found on the aptly named Pink Street. This pedestrianised stretch of Rua Nova do Carvalho, in the Cais Sodré district, is painted pink and lined with colourful bistros decorated with umbrellas that have become a popular tourist attraction in recent years. The drag performer discovered Pink Street while filming an advertisement and quickly adopted the street’s colour and its open space, which offered plenty of people to perform for. Finding Pink Street allowed Eubrite to form a solid fan base, leaving her former performance spaces behind because, as she explained in an interview with Público last year, “tourists would ask me where I was, they would go there and, when they got back, I would already be somewhere else.” Now with a fixed performance space where people can find her doing what she loves best.

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Passers-by can’t help but film, take photos, and rave about Lisbon’s unique character.

Free Eubrite

Amongst her avalanche of supporters, it’s not only on the street that she has a following. With 102,000 followers on Instagram, she often appears on many For You pages (FYP) and engages in advertisements. But it was back on the street that one of her admirers, Felipe De Brêtas, a filmmaker from Brazil, snapped her up as the star of his new film. Seeing Eubrite perform while drinking a beer with friends on Pink Street, Felipe was so impressed by the artist that he started filming the eccentric dancer. It would be two years later, during a visit to Paris, that he saw Eubrite doing what she loves, this time on the streets of the French capital. Felipe began documenting the only drag show on skates and editing the footage into a film, titled Free Eubrite, which he has submitted to several film festivals and has already debuted in Brasília.

It’s not only the streets of Lisbon that have been graced by Eubrite; France, Brazil, and Belgium have also had the pleasure of her street performances. However, it was in 2023 when she appeared for the first time on the Moda Lisboa catwalk at the invitation of fashion designer Luis Burges that she felt complete. It was a career highlight for Lisbon’s well-known street artist, who makes a living from busking.

Although Britney Spears’ music plays a key role in Eubrite’s repertoire, she avoids contemporary music, instead opting to evoke nostalgia among her audience. While a talented rollerskater with nine years of experience, including five as Eubrite, danger is only one misstep away. Having hurt

herself a handful of times, the skater says she’s much more careful these days and makes sure that safety is her main priority for her audience. When the occasional slip-up happens, she manages to laugh it off, sometimes even incorporating an embarrassing mishap to thrill the audience, such as her famous wig flip, where her wig catapults through the air, often landing on an unsuspecting tourist to the amusement of onlookers. Although she is a talented skater, she doesn’t take herself too seriously, often joking with the crowds that gather to cheer her on.

An icon of street art

Over the past five years, performing as Eubrite, Jarbas’ show has now become a landmark of Pink Street. You could say that she is, in some way, an icon of Lisbon’s street art scene. During her early days, when she would perform only in the light of day, people’s reactions were one of curiosity, she recounts. People didn’t know if she was performing or training. But today, many already know the character Eubrite, which one can only assume loosely translates as “I’m Brit” (Britney), thanks to her popularity on social media. While a few cycle paths exist within the capital, the challenging, cobbled, and somewhat uneven, steep streets of Lisbon have become part of her character’s narrative, navigating the streets on rollerblades. “It’s a challenge. If I skate on a smooth surface, I’ll be ordinary. This difficulty gives me something different,” she explained.

“Different” is just one word I could use to describe Eubrite’s performance, said in the nicest possible way. Bringing dynamic showmanship, energy, and fun to the street is something Libson has strived for as an artistic city, and it’s lucky to have such a bubbly personality like Eubrite –Lisbon’s only drag show on skates.

 Instagram: @eubrite

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In a new series Anna Alcott tells the untold stories of local talent

Meet the hidden stars of Albufeira

In a region better known for its beaches than its backbeat, one local musician is quietly making waves. Carlos Braga, born in Faro and residing in Paderne, is a man who plays not for fame, but for the pure joy of lifting others out of their everyday worries.

WORDS Anna Alcott

Carlos was born in Faro but has spent his entire life in Paderne, where he lives with his wife and family. He worked in a bar for five years before finally deciding to follow his true passion: music. His biological father, known for his Freddie Mercury tribute performances, left the family when Carlos was five years old. Despite this early loss, his mother and stepfather nurtured his interest in music.

In his 15 years of performing, Carlos tells me that the early days were especially challenging, with fierce competition making it difficult for him to establish himself. His influence spans a range from pop to rock. He mainly performs cover songs but has written around ten original tracks, inspired by moments of happiness or sadness.

In today’s competitive music scene, artists need real talent to draw a crowd, especially when live

entertainment comes at a high cost for venues. Beyond paying performers, venue owners must obtain music licenses and submit forms to Portugal’s copyright agency, the SBA, which imposes additional fees.

Though not actively chasing stardom, he says he wouldn’t turn down a record deal if the right opportunity came along. “I see myself as a simple guy,” he says. “I’m not in this for the fame.” Still, he’s candid about the reality of the industry in Portugal, like most businesses: “It’s not what you know or how talented you are – it’s who you know.”

If he weren’t a musician, Carlos believes he’d likely have found his place in the hotel industry. Few know that he was once both a Boy Scout and an altar boy, experiences that shaped his early years. While religion no longer plays a central role in his life, he reflects thoughtfully on his beliefs. “My view of God is more something that connects us all,” he says, “rather than a separate entity.”

In Albufeira’s local music scene, Carlos has observed a less-than-ideal dynamic. Rather than a unified community of musicians, he notes that fan groups can be territorial. “If a group doesn’t like the person, they won’t like the performance,” he says, suggesting that rivalry sometimes replaces solidarity among artists.

When asked what his musical journey has taught him about himself, he reflects: “I’ve become a much more confident person and learnt how to separate my stage presence from my everyday life.”

Carlos has had his fair share of mishaps and adventures over the years, but one experience stands out vividly in his memory. He was invited to perform at a wedding in Cyprus, during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, when travel was already complicated. After missing his connecting flight, he landed just five minutes before the bride was due to walk down the aisle. “There was a moment of panic,” he recalls. Fortunately, the delay was brief, and the wedding went ahead without a hitch.

Despite these challenges, Carlos is making a name for himself both at home and abroad. He has performed in Germany, Ireland, and Cyprus, gradually building international recognition. Carlos stands out not just for his soulful performances, but also for his flair – he’s even mastered the art of playing the guitar behind his back, a playful homage to the late Jimi Hendrix. When I asked what he enjoys most about performing, he replied, “I like the reaction of the crowd. It’s just pure enjoyment where people can forget their problems.”

However, on his return trip, the airline lost his luggage, along with the keys to his car. With no way to secure his guitar, he stayed up all night to protect it. When the bag finally arrived, he made the drive home, exhausted. Somewhere along the way, fatigue took over. He fell asleep at the wheel and crashed.

“No one was hurt, thankfully,” he says with a slight shake of his head. “But my car was totalled. It was a hard lesson and one I definitely won’t repeat.”

You can see Carlos perform in Albufeira on Monday, Wednesday and Friday at the Meet Bar and Barber’s Bar. Thursday and Saturday at King’s Cross (New Town).

Moving to the Algarve

How often have we all been on holiday and thought, “Wouldn’t it be lovely to live here?” Of course, when seduced by so much beauty, it’s hard to resist, but aren’t we always warned that the grass “isn’t always greener on the other side”? But, in truth, when it comes to Portugal, we have found the grass is actually greener. Perfect, no. Obstacles, certainly. But to us, the pros far outweigh the cons, and if we had our journey again, there are certainly areas I would have considered far more closely. Of course, everyone’s needs are different, and these are just my thoughts, based on my own experiences.

Our love affair with Portugal began a few years back, when we visited on holiday, determined to explore as much of the area as possible. Any rose-tinted notions were soon swept aside, quite literally, as our two-week vacation turned out to be one of the wettest on record. The weather was so torrential that even our bed and breakfast owners felt sorry for us and greeted us daily with a brolly, close at hand. But we were both overwhelmed by the beauty of the place, waking up to the smell of the orange grove in the morning, dipping our toes into pristine waters, and generally feeling a sense of ease that I hadn’t felt in years. At the time, I was running my own guest house on the Isle of Wight. Although I was just a five-minute walk from the sea, one day it hit me that due to the constant pressures of the business, I hadn’t even made it to the beach in over eight months. With my mother suffering from ill health, we were determined to make the move and change our lives around.

Having made a previous move from the UK to Switzerland, when I was just 19 and spending the next five years there,

I wasn’t overly daunted by another move. So, on arriving in Portugal and purchasing our dream home, we set about living the life we had always wanted: plenty of sun, a healthier diet, days by the sea, eating our own fruit from the garden, and generally leaving the stresses behind. Perhaps the most rewarding part of this journey has been the friendliness of the Portuguese people.

However, after looking back in hindsight after three years, there are considerations I overlooked.

Language

One obstacle I have found difficult to overcome is the language. I believe it’s the responsibility of anyone trying to integrate into someone else’s culture to try and learn the language, but boy, have I found it difficult.

This was something I hadn’t foreseen at the beginning. Being able to get by in both German and French, I had thought it would be pretty much the same in Portuguese, but I still find it hard to understand full sentences and feel somewhat embarrassed by my token efforts. Being able to order a coffee or lunch doesn’t really seem to cut it. Of course, many Portuguese happily converse in English, but I do find it frustrating when my elderly neighbour, always happy to see me, starts conversing, and then, after the usual pleasantries, we are both using hand signals to make a point. But that said, if you are looking for a good place to start, I can highly recommend Victor at the Atena language school in Tunes. I also find watching films with subtitles to be very beneficial.

WORDS David Woodward

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Jobs

In many ways, I know I’m very lucky. Lovely home, no mortgage, but unfortunately, I’m at that inbetween age where I can no longer work 16-hour days, but neither am I in a position to retire. Before arriving in Portugal, I thought that finding a job would be pretty easy, and this naivety has, in some ways, cost me dear. The other problem is that the cost of living has increased everywhere, not just in Portugal, and I have found that my frequent trips back to the UK to see my son have been curtailed somewhat.

There seems to be an abundance of seasonal hospitality jobs, but given my age and experience, I have received some fairly incredulous looks when I would want to take a job as a waiter. Again, my language skills are mostly to blame. For this reason, I am probing down the route of being self-employed and setting up my own business, but again, this is not for the faint-hearted, and more homework before I arrived would certainly have helped. Setting up a business anywhere is not an easy undertaking, but with limited knowledge of the language and the regulations, it makes the task much harder. So, to anyone making the move, if you need a job as I did, consider what you would like to do first and how much you need to survive on. If your passion is golf, like mine, work out how much you need to cover any additional expenses. Some social media pages can prove helpful, such as “Jobs in the Algarve,” which is geared up to help expats looking for work.

Practicalities

With our previous house being located on the high street and buses passing literally centimetres from our window, plus having a fairly limited garden space, we followed our hearts rather than our heads when it came to the location and practicalities of our property in Portugal. The problem is when, like me, you still think you are young and can conquer the world, but your body has other ideas. So, if, like us, you are contemplating a larger outdoor space, remember you still have to tend to this space. It seems common sense, but when the temperatures

start to soar, looking after such a place might not be as easy as you envisaged. We found an idyllic spot that seemed to suit our wish list, but in those initial few months, without a car, trekking those three kilometres to the nearest amenities brought us back to reality with a bump. I also didn’t consider that without a street name, actually finding us might be problematic, and woe betide if we actually got sick, as how would an ambulance possibly find us? Even something like popping out for a coffee and seeing other people has turned out to be more of a day out than an everyday occurrence. So, to anyone moving, I’d suggest renting and checking out as many areas as possible before making the bold step of buying.

Bureaucracy

Everywhere you go, there is always the dreaded paperwork, and finding the right lawyer, accountant, doctor, estate agent, etc, is a minefield. For us, just as it was in the UK, it’s a case of trial and error, finding the right person and the right information. With limited Portuguese and a fairly old-school mentality towards technology, I have at times found the whole process a little overwhelming. I would recommend that anyone moving try to do as much research as possible and prepare to take everything at a more leisurely pace. It’s only after a couple of years that I can say that I can navigate through the Portal das Finanças, know the taxation laws, and understand which bills need to be paid and when. I’ve also become a master of Google Translate, but this learning curve, especially as you get older, does become more demanding.

My recommendations would be to take along a Portuguese-speaking person to initial meetings with the Câmara and Juntas Freguesia. This can help break the ice. As for an accountant, I can highly recommend Vanda Baptista at Rubrica Decimal, Lda in Lagos. She not only fitted me in last minute, but also steered me through the minefield of fiscal numbers, green receipts, portals, and capital gains, all at a very reasonable price. Another place that has given me invaluable help on a number of topics, from health to pets, is Abbeygate Insurance, based in Boliqueime. As for an honest lawyer, sorry, but I’m still looking!

I knew moving abroad again would change the dynamic of my relationships with friends and family.

Isolation

I’ve always considered myself a fairly independent person, and having worked in hospitality for over 30 years, I pretty much took meeting people for granted. I knew moving abroad again would change the dynamic of my relationships with friends and family. Of course, we all know that most people jump at the chance of a holiday by the sea, but what you tend to forget is that everyone is often busy with their own lives and once making a move, especially as you get older, it is quite easy to feel isolated and dare I say lonely. Wherever you decide to move, I would recommend doing some research and finding groups with like-minded interests. For me, this has been through golf groups, animal charities, and people who enjoy writing. If, like me, you are single and are no longer in a profession that guarantees meeting people, I think maintaining these social links, becomes very important and definitely should be considered before moving.

In conclusion, I can say I have no regrets about moving to Portugal. It’s a magical place, full of charm, with wonderful people, but I would say to anyone who is moving, do as much homework as possible, prepare yourself for a mountain of red tape, and remember that not everything is as straightforward as it seems.

David Woodward is a hotelier and author of Confessions of a Waiter

Photos © Oana Costinas

Preserving the Algarve's Heritage

Currently, there are few places in the Algarve that still preserve and combine natural and cultural values within such an exceptional landscape as Boca do Rio, a remarkable estuary located in the parish of Budens, in the municipality of Vila do Bispo.

In 2023, the Boca do Rio Estate was sold to a real estate investment fund. However, Vila do Bispo Municipal Council intervened in the transaction to halt potential property development plans that could lead to the destruction of the fragile ecosystem and the degradation of the important archaeological context of the area. This process concluded in November 2024, when the municipality exercised its right of first refusal, acquiring the property, spanning over 128 hectares, from the company BDRInvestimentos, LDA, for the amount of €900,000.

Located within the Southwest Alentejo and Vicentine Coast Natural Park, Boca do Rio is an estuarine complex formed by the confluence of the Vale Barão, Vale de Boi and Budens streams, which meet and flow into the sea at Boca do Rio beach. This forms a wetland area known as Paul

da Lontreira, or Paul de Budens. The name Paul da Lontreira derives from the presence of otters, which feed in both the estuary and the sea. Boca do Rio offers excellent conditions for nature-related activities, providing the opportunity to appreciate the richness of local biodiversity, including flora, birdlife, insects, reptiles and amphibians. The marsh vegetation is dominated by common reed (Phragmites australis) and cattail (Typha spp.). These reed beds are frequented by various wetland bird species, such as the little egret (Egretta garzetta), purple heron (Ardea purpurea), white stork (Ciconia ciconia), mallard (Anas platyrhynchos) and the zitting cisticola (Cisticola juncidis).

Surrounding the wetland are thickets and patches of forest with strawberry trees (Arbutus unedo), cork oaks (Quercus suber) and pines (Pinus spp.). Among the shrubs and trees in these wooded areas live birds such as the common kestrel (Falco tinnunculus), Sardinian warbler (Sylvia melanocephala), Iberian chiffchaff (Phylloscopus ibericus), azure-winged magpie (Cyanopica cyanus) and corn bunting (Emberiza calandra). In winter, the penduline tit (Remiz pendulinus) appears, and in summer, the colourful and active European bee-eater (Merops apiaster) can be seen flying over the nearby slopes. This ecosystem is also home to some rarities in the Algarve, such as the Savi’s warbler (Locustella luscinioides), whose song resembles that of a cicada.

WORDS Ricardo Soares

Downstream from the wetland lies Boca do Rio beach, with its golden sands and calm waters.

The fishing tradition in the waters of this Mediterranean landscape has been documented since time immemorial. Archaeological research in the area of the present-day Boca do Rio beach has revealed continuous exploitation of marine resources from the Mesolithic period through to almost modern times. Between the 1st and 5th centuries AD, people from the Roman world established an important industrial complex here, specialising in the production of fish preserves and other fish-based products such as garum – a sauce made from fermented fish, salt and aromatic herbs. This industry was naturally sustained by fishing activity in these waters. Additionally, salt would have been produced in the estuary.

Later, in the 16th century, the beach served as a base for a tuna trap (almadrava). Tuna fishing structures formed a vital economic activity, regulated under feudal rights by the Portuguese Crown. In the second half of the 18th century, the Marquis of Pombal established a stateowned monopoly to better control this activity: the Companhia Geral das Reais Pescarias do Reino do Algarve (General Company of the Royal Fisheries of the Kingdom of the Algarve).

The archaeological site of Boca do Rio has been known since 1755, when it was exposed by the retreat of the tsunami caused by the great earthquake that occurred on 1 November of that year. It was the subject of pioneering archaeological campaigns in the late 19th century, led by Estácio da Veiga.

Since 2003, with the support of Vila do Bispo câmara and the collaboration of various institutions and universities, archaeological excavations have been conducted at Boca do Rio. These include excavations, cleaning, diagnostics, material collection and protection of the ruins, with the aim of preserving the cultural heritage, especially given the site’s proximity to the sea. In 2017, the research project ‘BRIO/Boca do Rio: a fishing site between two seas’ was launched in partnership with the University of the Algarve, the University of Marburg (Germany), and the câmara. This has led to multiple excavation campaigns and a substantial increase in knowledge about the site, including the discovery of an exceptionally well-preserved Roman port.

With the acquisition of the Boca do Rio Estate, the Vila do Bispo câmara aims to protect, conserve, and sustainably enhance the estuary and its natural, cultural and scenic values. To that end, it is establishing an Environmental and Archaeological Heritage Reserve, managed by the local authority to safeguard its biodiversity, ecosystems, and geological, archaeological, historical and ethnological heritage.

Ricardo Soares is the head archeologist of the Vila do Bispo Museum – Celeiro da História

museu.celeirodahistoria@cm-viladobispo.pt

Boca do Rio, 2016
Boca do Rio, 2017 © Ricardo Soares
Boca do Rio, 2018 © Ricardo Soares

An Ocean of Possibilities

Portugal is charting a new course toward sustainable industry by turning to the ocean’s vast resources. The PBA aims to establish a resilient blue economy that balances ecological integrity with economic growth, positioning Portugal as a leader in sustainable blue development within Europe.

A national effort is underway to address the scarcity of land-based natural materials by developing innovative products and processes from marine biomass. The Pacto da Bioeconomia Azul (PBA), or Blue Bioeconomy Pact, is a progressive initiative in Portugal aimed at promoting sustainable economic development through the responsible use of marine and aquatic resources.

Launched officially in 2022, this ambitious plan unites a diverse group of companies, research centres, and universities with a shared vision: to reindustrialise Portugal’s economy through environmentally friendly marine biotechnology. The various stakeholders hope to foster innovation and collaboration in sectors such as fisheries, aquaculture, and coastal tourism. By focusing on practices that enhance biodiversity, combat climate change, and support the livelihoods of coastal communities.

The PBA consortium currently comprises 83 national entities, including 53 companies ranging from global corporations to local startups, alongside 30 research institutions known as ENESII (Entidades não Empresariais do Sistema de I&I). These groups collaborate to harness the potential of the blue bioeconomy across seven key industrial sectors, known as Work Packages (WPs). These sectors have been defined as Biomaterials (WP1), Molluscs (WP2), Textile (WP3), Food (WP4), Seaweed (WP5), Feeding (WP6), and Fishes (WP7).

Among these, the textile sector (WP3) has emerged as an outstanding example of the pact’s innovative potential.

Creating sustainable material from the ocean Led by the Portuguese company TMG Tecidos, WP3 focuses on transforming marine-origin biomaterials into sustainable fibres, textiles, and footwear. This approach aims to reduce the textile industry’s notorious environmental footprint by substituting traditional materials with recycled fishing nets and bio-extracts from seaweed.

discarded at sea are collected, cleaned, and mechanically recycled into fibres ready for textile production (photo 1). Parallel to this, researchers extract natural pigments and functional compounds from seaweed biomass using eco-friendly methods (photo 2). These extracts provide colouration and enhance the properties of fabrics, delivering features such as UV protection and fluorescence (photo 3). A further phase involves applying microalgae treatments to dye and coat textiles, which can also be converted into fibres via melt-spinning or wet-spinning (photo 4), completing a sustainable manufacturing cycle that transforms marine residues into high-performance clothing (photo 5).

From the lab to market

Central to this innovative work is the Centro de Nanotecnologia e Materiais Técnicos, Funcionais e Inteligentes (CeNTI). Founded in 2006, CeNTI is a private research and innovation centre staffed by over 160 scientists and engineers. It provides the technological infrastructure necessary to bridge the gap from laboratory research to industrial-scale production. CeNTI’s collaboration has been instrumental in scaling these textile innovations for the market.

Since its inception in 2022, the PBA project has made steady progress. By 2023, the first fibres and dyed textile prototypes had been successfully produced using marine materials. Throughout 2024, research continued to refine the processes and prepare for broader scale-up. Today, in 2025, the initiative is transitioning into industrial implementation, with eco-friendly clothing lines made from marine biomaterials entering production.

Portugal pioneering progress

Beyond its environmental ambitions, the PBA seeks to position Portugal as a global pioneer in blue bioeconomy innovation, a market projected to reach €200 billion by 2030. By fostering new products and sustainable industries, the pact

aims to create economic growth while protecting natural resources and biodiversity.

As the Pacto da Bioeconomia Azul advances, it exemplifies how scientific collaboration, industry leadership, and environmental protection can combine to redefine the future of manufacturing. Portugal’s ocean offers not only a rich ecosystem but also a promising foundation for a greener, more resilient economy.

Fractured Continuity

Portugal’s general election on 18 May produced no outright winner –again. The minority government, headed by Luís Montenegro, has been reappointed. The Socialists, mainly responsible for bringing down his last government, suffered a heavy defeat. The party that advanced in the election was the right-wing populist Chega, now the official opposition.

This was the country’s third general election in as many years, and the second to produce an inconclusive result. On the surface, it looks as though not much has changed. But in reality, there may be a chance of stability.

Montenegro’s Democratic Alliance (predominantly the Social Democratic Party) secured 31.8% of the vote, an increase of three points over the previous election. This gives them 91 seats in the Assembly, 11 more than before. Although the ‘winner’, this is in fact a low score for the party compared with most elections since the revolution.

Going into the election as the principal challenger to Montenegro’s coalition, the Socialists had hoped to capitalise on the revelations about the prime minister’s family business interests. In the end, though, the party was punished for bringing down the new government. The PS scored 22.8% of the vote, a drop of 5.2 points. It emerged with 58 seats, 20 fewer than before. This was the party’s third-worst result in the history of

the Republic, and prompted the immediate resignation of its leader, Pedro Nuno Santos. The populist Chega (‘Enough’) movement continued to gain momentum. It polled 22.8%, representing a 4.7-point increase over the previous election. Its tally of seats rose to 60, an increase of 10. From votes cast in mainland Portugal, Chega just trailed the Socialists. But once the votes of Portuguese living abroad were counted, where the party did particularly well, it was able to overtake the PS and become the official opposition.

In the Algarve, Chega topped the poll, with 33.9% of the vote and four Assembly seats. Montenegro’s Democratic Alliance came in second with 25.7% of the vote and three seats, while the Socialists dropped to 20.5% and two seats.

The election campaign centred on broadly the same issues as in the previous years. Employed Portuguese continue to feel aggrieved at the country’s low wage level. Average monthly

earnings are just under € 2,000, as compared to € 3,155 for the EU as a whole. Taxes are seen as too high by most people. The public health system is under severe strain, with waiting times getting longer and medical staff dissatisfied with the pay and conditions.

Housing presents a widespread concern: prices rose by 9% last year, three times the EU average, with many homes now unaffordable in large parts of the country to those on average incomes. Immigration – an issue brought to the forefront by Chega – is a highly contested issue. There are now 1.5 million immigrants living in the country, 14% of the population. The level is three times higher than it was just 10 years ago.

Over the last year, Montenegro tightened immigration rules and lowered both corporate and income taxes, but despite these moves his party gained only very limited additional support. Voters seem to feel that the traditional parties are only tinkering around the big issues, and hence the growing appeal of Chega leader André Ventura, who effectively articulates many of these popular grievances.

So, no outright winner from the general election – again. That might look like a recipe for further political instability. But, there may be a chance of something more stable emerging this time round. Montenegro’s advance, though small, confirms his position and neutralises the controversy around his family business. For their part in bringing down his first administration, the Socialists have had the voters’ decisive verdict. Therefore, the party is unlikely to want to repeat that operation anytime soon. Furthermore, its voters are ageing: PS support amongst voters under 55 is now around 14%; its support is now predominantly amongst those over 55. Even under new leadership, the PS must be fearful of a further trip to the ballot box.

Given that, Montenegro may be quite content to soldier on with a minority government, facing Chega as the opposition, and sure in the knowledge that the Socialists have no interest whatsoever in bringing him down.

In the face of Chega’s advance, Montenegro and the Socialists are locked in a cold embrace, demonstrating once again that in politics, my enemy’s enemy is my friend.

James Plaskitt is a retired politician who served as a member of the British Parliament from 1997 to 2010. He now lives in the Algarve.

WORDS James Plaskitt
Photos Cerimónia de Tomada de Posse do XXV Governo Constitucional © Rui Ochoa / Presidência da República

Quality Integrity Resul ts LAGOS ALGARVE

Algarve 41 Club Supports Local Charities

The Algarve 41 Club is proud to continue its commitment to charitable initiatives across the region by donating €500 to the Algarve Emporium Charity. This generous contribution was presented by Mike Trice, the current Hon. Secretary of Algarve 41 Club, to Caroline Langston of Algarve Emporium Charity.

Supporting

Algarve Emporium Charity

Algarve Emporium Charity plays a vital role in the community by providing essential food supplies to those in need in Tunes. This commitment, which incurs expenses exceeding €500 each week, is made possible through cash donations, the sale of goods generously contributed by supporters, and a variety of engaging fundraising events. Over the past five years, the charity has successfully aided more than 86 families.

Each food package includes fresh meat, vegetables, fruit, eggs, and milk, along with a selection of canned and dried goods, toilet paper, and an additional item of choice. In addition to food provisions, the charity also distributes clothes, linens, and household items to families in need. The dedication and hard work of a team of enthusiastic volunteers enable Algarve Emporium Charity to make a significant impact on the lives of those less fortunate.

Algarve 41 Club is pleased to support these noble efforts with its cash donation, reflecting a shared commitment to enhancing the lives of individuals and families in the Algarve.

If you would like to help Algarve Emporium Charity, you can do so in several ways. Donations can be made at their distribution point every Friday between 11.30 am and 12 pm at the Between the Lines Bar/Café in Tunes, or you can reach out via email at algarveemporium@gmail.com.

Join the Algarve 41 Club

Historically, membership in 41 Club was limited to former Round Tablers. However, the association now warmly welcomes those who have never been involved with the Round Table. If you are a resident of the Algarve, own property here, or are an Ex Round Tabler or 41 Club member from the UK who frequently visits the Algarve, we invite you to attend one of our monthly meetings. You will be greeted with a warm welcome and may even decide to join this unique and special club.

For more information about Algarve 41 Club and its activities, please contact our Secretary at mike.trice46@gmail.com

Readers Letters

Bom Dia Sophie,

Having just read your article on Madrugada and volunteering, I thought you may like to hear from a volunteer.

The first 16 years here in Portugal I lived in Aljezur. I volunteered in an animal charity shop there for over 10 years, and I enjoyed it. We downsized to Lagos four-and-a-half years ago, and I wanted to do something to fill the time. I have known of Madrugada since its inception, and, as they had a shop here in Lagos, I volunteered to work there.

I enjoy what I do, and I like my covolunteers. It is a very friendly and welcoming place.

We all try to make new volunteer helpers as welcome as we can.

I do this, yes, for my benefit, but also as a way to give back to the community I live in. This charity helps people at a very emotional and sad time in their lives, at no charge to them. And who knows if the day might not come when we may be asking for their help.

Consider volunteering. It may not be for you, but if you don’t try, you won’t know.

Thank you,

If you want to write to us or comment on one of our articles, please send an email to sophie@tomorrowalgarve.com

Striking the Right Note

Music and Mentorship: A Visit to Pedro Pinto’s Studio in the Algarve

Less than a mile from the beautiful beaches of Armação de Pêra, in a quiet residential neighbourhood, Pedro Pinto lives in an unpretentious, comfortable, and very well-maintained house. I came here to shoot part of a documentary series about the music scene in the Algarve and was somewhat baffled by the serene, domestic scene surrounding me.

As Pedro comes out to the street to greet me, I have no idea what to expect as we head into his basement. I step into a pristine, perfectly outfitted recording studio, with state-of-the-art equipment that exudes a sense of being built with both passion and precision. The incongruity of it all still sinks in as he hands me an excellent cup of java and introduces me to the crew currently recording at his studio.

There’s 25-year-old hip-hop artist, Sina from Alvor and singer-songwriter Rita Barata, visiting from the north. She is collaborating with Sina while also recording some of her own new work. The overall vibe is one of relaxed, friendly professionalism as we chat about the documentary project I am working on with my friend Guilherme Faust.

As we converse, I learn that Pedro is more than just the owner of the studio; he is also a professor of music at the University of Faro and a perennial fixture in the emerging music scene of the Algarve. The two young musicians regard Pedro more as a mentor than just a producer, and there is no doubt that he has played a significant role in their journey. While he produces beautifully clean and wellbalanced tracks, he also provides musical direction and career advice. For their part, the two recording artists are an anomaly in the world of music—soft-spoken, humble, yet incredibly focused and driven, they seem to live for their art while effortlessly bouncing between light-hearted banter and profound, thoughtful conversation.

As the recording session continues, I discover that Pedro first launched the studio in 2003, with Kimahera officially born in 2005. Reflecting on this journey, he explains, “The idea of starting the studio came from my growing interest in recording my own music. At the time, there wasn’t a place nearby with the right conditions to do it with quality. It really came out of necessity — and the feeling that I could make

WORDS & PHOTOGRAPHY Olaf Crato

E x p l o r e o u r s p e c i a l t i e s T a k e a m o m e n t t o u n w i n d a t o u r s u n n y

a difference!” He emphasises that while it began with him, “it was never just about my solo project, Reflect,” as he has shared the space with fellow musicians from the start.

What sets it apart are a few unique elements: Pedro’s wife, Laura, owns a dance studio, Emotion Dance Academy, less than a mile away, where many of the musicians have their choreographies supervised and created by the intrepid Laura. Moreover, the stunning allure of the Algarve’s beaches and cliffs provides a dramatic backdrop for music videos while serving as inspiration for future creations.

“Emotion Dance Academy was born 20 years after Kimahera, in 2023, with the same goal — but applied to dance: to create a space where children, teenagers, and adults can freely express their emotions, and find the right conditions to dance with quality,” Pedro shares.

Over the years, Pedro has worked with a wide range of artists from different countries, genres, and disciplines, including podcasters and audiobook creators. “Yes, the studio has welcomed several projects from people outside Portugal, or from foreigners living in the Algarve, who are looking for a comfortable and inspiring place to work on their music, whether artistic or commercial. We’ve recorded albums, ads, and even audiobooks,” he reveals.

The two young musicians’ respect for Pedro is palpable, and it is clear he has been instrumental in cultivating their talent. “Everyone who visits us falls in love with the fact that you can walk out of the studio and be at the beach in under 10 minutes,” Pedro reflects on the appeal of their location. “It’s a quiet town for most of the year, but in the summer, it fills up with life and tourists. We enjoy the calm, but also the energy Armação de Pêra brings in the summer. Being in the heart of the Algarve also matters. For us, it’s home — and for those who visit, it often becomes that too. And that’s something beautiful.”

As I leave Kimahera, I am struck by a tangible sense of optimism. It is clear to me that this is what music is supposed to do—bring people together, carry meaning, and create something long-lasting. In Pedro’s studio, that spirit is bursting from the seams and is very much alive and well.

 kimahera.pt Instagram.com/emotion.danceacademy www.instagram.com/joe.sina.85 www.instagram.com/_ritabarata

Scan to watch the video

Fresh Season. Fresh Flavour.

NEW SUMMER MENU

Experience a whole new taste of summer at Gecko Restaurant.

Our menu has been revamped and refreshed by our new Head-Chef, Elisabete Oliveira, bringing new dishes and beautifully reimagined classics to the table.

Essential Summer Reads

This summer is already shaping up to be an outstanding season for book readers, with a plethora of new releases across genres. Whether you’re looking for a thrilling mystery, a heartwarming romance, or a thoughtprovoking literary novel, we’ve got you covered.

No matter your preference, these five books mentioned above offer a fantastic starting point for your summer 2025 literary adventures. Happy reading!

A

As the Sunday Times said, Mrs Reid’s new book is “tipped to be this summer’s biggest read.” The author promises a compelling narrative that explores the extraordinary lengths people go to for love and life, pushing beyond any imaginable limits. Get ready for an emotional and fast-paced journey.

This book is undoubtedly one of the most talkedabout releases of this summer. Set two decades before the events of the original Hunger Games trilogy, the main story follows a young Haymitch Abernathy from District 12 as he is thrust into an arena where twice the usual number of tributes must fight to the death.

The story follows a journalist and a biographer who are given one month to collaborate on writing the life story of a reclusive heiress. If you’re in the right mood for a charming blend of humour, emotion, and undeniable chemistry, then this is the perfect book to enjoy by the pool or on the beach.

This 657-page novel is a braided account of four women, both in Nigeria and America, as they reflect on the choices and missed opportunities that have shaped their lives. A truly powerful literary gem that will stay with you long after you’ve turned the final page.

Does the author’s name sound familiar? Maybe from A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder, the 2019 bestseller. The new book features Jet Mason, a young woman who is told she has only seven days to live due to a tragic brain injury. Determined to finally finish something in her life, Jet sets out to solve her own murder before time runs out, unravelling secrets within her wealthy and dysfunctional family.

Atmosphere:
Love Story, by Taylor Jenkins Reid
Sunrise on the Reaping (A Hunger Games Novel), by Suzanne Collins
Great Big Beautiful Life, by Emily Henry
Dream Count, by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie
Not Quite Dead Yet, by Holly Jackson

HISTORY AND CULTURE

How to make Watercolours from Soil

The third edition of the Festival das Florestas Marinhas (Festival of Marine Forests) took place from 21– 28 May. The event was a collaborative effort between the University of Algarve, the Vila do Bispo City Council and its Centre for Marine Sciences. It showcased the marine diversity of the coastal area around Sagres, its corals and algae, and their importance to marine life and conservation. There were guided tours, lectures, boat trips and workshops. My wife Monique and I decided to attend two events, Discovering the Martinhal Lagoon and How to Make Watercolours from Soil.

Marine biology to art

This event was a hands-on workshop led by marine biologist and artist Saritta Camacho of the University of the Algarve. She began by explaining how her career had metamorphosed from marine biology to art. After 20 years as a marine biologist, she decided to follow her dream to become involved in the artistic side of science. The COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 provided her with an opportunity when her regular work significantly diminished.

Saritta, already a keen artist, studied the curriculum, took the exams and in 2019 obtained her qualification in communication and design. Her art now encompasses illustrations for scientific journals, design creations, storyboards, university projects, advertising materials, brochures and books worldwide. And of course, she makes her own paint.

The presentation began with a slideshow of the process, followed by an explanation of the ingredients, including the carefully measured amounts of each, and finally, the technique that would culminate in a watercolour paint. The cliffs

of Praia da Luz is the area where much of the sedimentary rock originates. It provides the body of the paint and its pigment. The various strata of rock visible on the cliff face tell us the era of its formation and each layer has a different colour.

Other ingredients include brightener (white crystals), binder (Arabic gum), softener (liquid glycerin), moisture retainer (honey or corn syrup) and a fungicide (clove oil).

A stroke of genius

A table was set up for the ingredients to be measured and allocated to each participant. Pieces of sedimentary rock were carefully measured with each student receiving a different colour. Then the other ingredients were measured and placed in small containers. Six workstations, one for each participant, had been previously organised with a mortar and pestle, a flat-bottomed glass pestle, two small metal palette knives, a hard square table-top surface and some water.

The first operation was to grind the rock to a fine powder with the mortar and pestle. This was hard work, but it was essential to get the powder to the right texture. A sieve was available to separate any unwanted lumps. Then the binder was added and mixed with the powder to make a soft paste. The flat-bottomed glass pestle was used to rotate over the mix to achieve an even finer paste.

Lastly, honey was added to maintain a certain moisture level, and a few drops of clove oil were used as a fungicide. Saritta moved between the students, checking the texture of the individual

paints and adding a drop of this or a drop of that to achieve as near perfection as possible.

The glass pestle was used as an added test to check the quality of the newly made paint. The bottom of the glass pestle was dipped into the paint and then an imprint was stamped onto a piece of watercolour paper. If the imprint wasn’t good enough, either more mixing was required or perhaps a few more drops of binder or water needed to be added. The expert eye of Saritta could tell if the paint was of a good quality.

When everyone had completed their paints and the quality was considered excellent, the different colours were shared between the participants and placed in a small paintbox so each person had six to take away.

Monique’s first objective is to create the beach and cliffs of Praia da Luz with the paints made from the very same sedimentary rocks of which the cliffs are formed. I’ll let you know how it goes!

Next month a report on the Martinhal Lagoon

 www.etsy.com/shop/TpotDesign www.instagram.com/saritacamaxo www.instagram.com/tpotdesign

Hairdressing & Beauty Salon

Market of Cultures

The Convent of São José in Lagoa and the surrounding streets will once again be the epicentre of the 10th edition of the Candlelight Culture Market. Over four nights, more than 60 artisans from diverse cultures and religions around the world will come together in harmony to showcase their traditions, flavours, and arts to thousands of visitors.

 3–6 July, 7 pm–12.30 am

 Lagoa

 welcometolagoa.pt

Ria Formosa Festival

A true celebration of the gastronomic richness of Ria Formosa, highlighting the authentic flavours of the region. Over several days, visitors will have the opportunity to savour fresh seafood caught in the waters of the Ria Formosa, prepared in a variety of traditional ways that reflect the Algarve's culinary culture. It's the ideal place to enjoy regional delicacies, music, cultural activities and entertainment designed for all age groups. This event is an unmissable opportunity for those who want to discover the essence of the Ria Formosa through its gastronomy and hospitality, typical of southern Portugal.

 31 July–10 August

 Largo de São Francisco, Faro  vivmar@sapo.pt

Street Entertainment in Lagos

Praça do Infante will once again be filled with music as the summer street entertainment returns. Several artists will enliven the summer nights in Lacobrigense, namely Carlos Agapito (11/07), Filomena Batista (18/07), André Gonçalves (1/08), Fernando Pereira (8/08), Fábio Muchacho (15/08), Humberto Silva (22/08) and Ricardo Glória (28/08).

 11 July-28 August, 9.30 pm.

 Praça do Infante

 www.cm-lagos.pt

What's on

For more events and activities check our online calendar:  www.tomorrowalgarve.com/calendar

Disclaimer: While we believe this information to be correct at the time of printing, local events can be subject to change, so we always advise checking the links given before you arrive at the event.

Jazz concert

For jazz music lovers, an unforgettable night to the sound of Chuck Wansley and the Orquestra de Jazz do Algarve.

 26 July, 5 pm

 Forte do Beliche, Sagres

 www.facebook.com/orquestrajazzalgarve

Tickets: Ticketline.pt

Feira da Serra

Feira da Serra is a socio-cultural event that was born in 1991 to valorise the producers and products of the Serra do Caldeirão.

A festival of sounds, colours, and genuine flavours from the mountains and the interior and a showcase of their traditions, crafts, gastronomy, dances and songs. Every year, on the last weekend of July, São Brás de Alportel becomes the stage for the biggest event of its kind in the region, and a true celebration of the values of the interior. This year, the event celebrates honey, the gold of the Serra do Caldeirão! Musical performances feature Bárbara Bandeira, Anjos, and Diogo Piçarra, among many others.

 24–27 July

 São Brás de Alportel  feiradaserra.cm-sbras.pt

Arte Doce

Arte Doce returns to sweeten Lagos and assert itself as one of the most emblematic events of the Algarve summer. The theme this year is Meeting of Cultures for Peace. The stars of the show, of course, are the regional sweets, made with talent and dedication by the skilled hands of local confectioners. But there is much more to enjoy: live music, entertainment for all ages, crafts, food stalls, show cooking and that unique atmosphere that makes this fair a true feast for the senses. Get ready to taste, enjoy and come back for more!

 23–27 July, from 6 pm.

 Lagos Sports Complex and the surrounding area

 artedoce.pt/2025

Lagos Food Fest

Now in its 10th year, the Lagos Food Fest will bring together some of the most original national food trucks to show visitors the best that this country has to offer in terms of street food, accompanied by entertainment and musical performances.

 3–6 July, 12 pm–midnight

 Praça do Infante and Jardim da Constituição  www.cm-lagos.pt

Noitada Portimão

A two-day festival with concerts, leisure shows, silent disco, video mapping and much more in 15 different zones and four main stages. A celebration of arts and theatre, music and culture, with the city of Portimão as its stage.

 25–26 July  Portimão  noitada.pt

Al-Buhera Festival

Crafts, music and gastronomy promise to liven up the evenings of residents and tourists alike, in one of the most eagerly awaited events of the summer season in the Algarve. For five days, Praça dos Pescadores transforms into a landscape reminiscent of Arab culture in the region. Several dozen tents line the area, displaying beautiful handicrafts made from a wide range of materials, including leather goods, cork, jewellery, copper and brass, basketry, textiles, decorative arts, candles, natural soaps, aromatherapy, embroidery, knitting, and crochet. The entertainment programme also promises not to disappoint with different acts performing on stage every night.

The shows take place at 10 pm on the stage set up on the festival site, while the crafts exhibition is open daily from 7 pm to midnight.

 22–26 July.

 Praça dos Pescadores, Albufeira

 www.cm-albufeira.pt

WE DID IT!

A great test drive for our 20th anniversary next year, we would like to thank all those who made our Lagos o ce celebration a success!

It continues to be our pleasure connecting people and homes, in one of the best places in the world!

Rua Ernesto Cabrita Edificio Vales Loja A
LAGOA / CARVOEIRO
Av. Tivoli, Conjunto Varandamar Corpo B Bloco 3, R/C, Esq.
VILAMOURA
R. Dr. José Francisco
Tello Queiroz, Lote 3, Loja R
Lagos
LAGOS

How to Make Your Property Profitable?

Do you own a property in Portugal that you don’t use year-round? Instead of keeping it closed, have you considered making it profitable? When choosing between Alojamento Local (local accommodation) and traditional rental, there are legal, fiscal, and logistical advantages and disadvantages that must be weighed before making a decision.

This is the question many real estate investors in Portugal ask. In fact, in 2019, Alojamento Local accounted for around 40% of overnight stays in Portugal and, for 39% of property owners, income from Alojamento Local represents more than half of their household budget.

What Should You Consider Before Choosing?

When it comes to maximising your property’s profitability, you shouldn’t only consider the financial factor. You must also consider the type of property you own, its location, and the logistics involved in either of the two rental options.

Legalisation and Mandatory Requirements

If you’ve decided to enter the world of Alojamento Local, you must request a licence from the relevant city council. However, there are other obligations to consider before making this request. These include opening an activity with the tax authority, contracting a civil liability insurance, and equipping the property with the necessary safety equipment and mandatory signage.

Once these tasks are completed, you can proceed with submitting the application to the city council, which may take up to 60 business days for properties outside containment zones or 90 business days for those located within such zones. After registration is granted, the city council may inspect the property within 30 days to verify compliance with legal and safety requirements.

On the other hand, if you’re considering joining the traditional long-term rental market, you must be aware of the obligation to draft a written rental contract that complies with legal formalities. The contract must have a minimum duration of one year and a maximum of 30 years. It’s also important to note that for permanent residential leases signed after February 2019, contracts are automatically renewed for three years if the initial period is shorter.

After signing your rental agreement with your tenant, you must register it on the tax department portal and pay the applicable stamp duty for the contract.

Tax Differences Between AL and Traditional Rental

Are you aware of the tax implications associated with each rental option? For Alojamento Local, your income is classified as business income under Category B of your personal income tax (IRS). Traditional rental income, however, falls under Category F – Real Estate Income.

Local accommodation is VAT-exempt until your annual turnover reaches €15,000. After exceeding that threshold, VAT is applied, and you must submit mandatory quarterly declarations. However, local accommodation allows the deduction of business-related expenses (cleaning, maintenance, utilities, commissions, etc.).

Traditional rental income is subject to a tax rate of 25% on rents received. This rate can be reduced depending on the contract duration and residential leases are VAT-exempt. Also, both rental regimes require the issuance of receipts.

Risks and Benefits of Each Model

When weighing the pros and cons of each model,

Local Accommodation

one cannot ignore the battle between high turnover in AL and the stability of traditional rental.

The truth is that traditional rental ensures the tenant will use the property in a similar way to the owner, which means there’s no need for constant cleaning or maintenance, nor for check-ins as in AL.

However, long-term rentals raise some concerns among owners, such as tenant management, maintenance during the owner’s absence, and the lack of frequent inspections. Perhaps the biggest fear is non-compliance with contractual obligations, especially rent payment and the potential need for eviction.

Conclusion: What Is Best for You?

To make an informed decision, ask yourself:

• Is my property located in a tourist area?

• Am I willing to be more actively involved in management?

• Do I prefer predictable income, or am I open to more risk for potentially greater profit?

Solicitor, Professional License No. 8847

Praça do Poder Local, 8600-527 Lagos +351 924 187 339

labroinhalaw.com

WORDS Inês Labroinha

& GARDENS

Seashells

A beautiful interior design gift courtesy of Mother Nature, let seashells bring the story of the ocean into your home.

Even with the tourist season in full swing, you can still find secluded beaches in the Algarve with more shells than holiday-makers. So next time you go for a stroll, keep your eyes on the shoreline and you could be the proud owner of some of nature’s loveliest home decor.

Shells are not just pretty faces, they are a feat of engineering designed by soft-bodied creatures like snails, clams and oysters. These clever molluscs secrete a tissue called the mantle to protect themselves, which hardens into layers of shell. As the mollusc grows, the mantle continues to add layers of shell, creating an impenetrable armour. When the creatures die, their shells are left behind and wash up on the shore.

Another Algarve native is the Abalone shell, it is shaped like an ear and has a row of holes along the shell's edge. Grey and knobbly on the outside, its beauty lies within… the shell is lined with shimmering mother-of-pearl, or ‘nacre’. The iridescent interiors of these shells evolved not for beauty, but for strength. The nacre helps to make shells crack-proof, so the Abalone is a natural choice for mirror frames and decorative inlays in furniture. Mother Nature is just so clever, designing something both useful, practical and beautiful at the same time, isn’t that what every interior designer and architect in the world tries to do?

We have many types of beautiful shells in the Algarve, including one named after the region – the Algarve Volute. I see them all the time and pick them up instinctively because of their amazing colour. They’re those big snail shells with a curled shape, the ones with a blush-pinkorange-sunset hue that perfectly reflects the sunbaked tones of the Algarve cliffs. The largest shell in the Algarve is the giant clam, which can grow to a metre wide and weigh a whopping 200 kg. Can you imagine meeting one of them in your spaghetti alle vongole? I can’t say I’ve ever met anyone who’s seen one on the beach, but I live in hope.

by Mariia Demchenko

HOMES & GARDENS

I love the look of shell wind-chimes, so last week I decided to make my own. It wasn’t just original home decor I was after; it was also a way to stop the seagulls from hanging out on our balcony. They drive me mad with their noisy parties. A neighbour told me that birds don’t like reflective surfaces so shiny things fluttering in the wind will have them looking elsewhere for a place to poo and screech. I collected loads of pearly shells on Meia Praia beach and had a very pleasurable Sunday morning making wind chimes with the glittering treasure and little pieces of driftwood. When I saw my pest controllers hanging on the balcony, I stood back to congratulate myself - what a clever girl I was! I had managed to create something both pretty and useful.

After half an hour, the clinking and tinkling were starting to get on my nerves. Aren’t wind chimes supposed to be soothing and whimsical? They were irritating me more than my husband’s drone. After two hours listening to the wind lashing the shells, I decided the high-pitched racket they made was worse than the birds, and before I knew it, I’d lost my temper and cut them all down. Oh, how the seagulls laughed.

So now I’m making wall art with all the felled shells, glueing them to a large stretched canvas so they will be seen and not heard. I had been planning to use the canvas to create a piece of textured gold art, but I’ve realised that shells are nature’s very own metallics. Their iridescence is more stunning than gold paint could ever be.

Shells are natural beauties; they don’t need any embellishment or dressing up. Invite some into your living space and let them be the star of the show; they’ll bring the sounds of the sea into your home and make the whole place feel unique and special.

The great thing about shell decor is that there is no selfassembly involved, and you don’t have to be skilled with a drill or a paintbrush. You can stagger home from the beach with a haul of shell booty, fill a clear glass bowl or vase and place it on your coffee table. Simple as that. The, you can put your feet up and marvel at your stunning centrepiece.

If you are one of those people who actually like making things, the possibilities for creating your own shell decor are endless. You can create wall decor with seashells by arranging them in patterns on a canvas or within a shadow box for a unique piece of artwork. You can glue shells onto frames, mirrors or lamp bases for a custom, beach-inspired look. You can even make your own seashell candles by filling large, sturdy shells with wax. Add a wick and some essential oils for a spa experience in your bathroom.

Celebrating Caroline Grégoire

A Gold Medallist’s Journey in Figure Skating

In early April, the picturesque town of Covilhã in the Serra da Estrela region hosted the 2025 Portuguese Championships in figure skating – a sport that remains relatively niche in Portugal but is slowly gaining traction among enthusiasts. Among the competitors was Caroline Grégoire, a resident of the Algarve, who captured the gold medal in the adult intermediate category. This achievement was even more remarkable as she is over 50 years old.

Caroline’s journey in skating began in her native Canada, where ice rinks are as common as parks. “I was just five when an ice rink opened just five minutes from my home,” she reminisces. From the outset, Caroline immersed herself in the sport, taking lessons from both group and private instructors. Over the years, she participated in numerous competitions, experiencing both the highs of victory and the lows of setbacks.

Following her heart, Caroline moved to Europe in 1993. Bizarrely, though she lived in Sweden for eight years, a country associated more with ice, she only skated three times. She then moved to the North of Germany with her trusty skates accompanying her, but never felt the urge to compete again.

Caroline first visited Portugal in 2017, and ice could not have been further from her mind when she decided to move here for the warm weather, after realising she could work remotely. So, she returned in 2018 and then, in 2019, bought a property between Lagoa and Carvoeiro and moved permanently.

It was when she started exploring Portugal that she visited some Christmas markets, which had ice rinks, that she rediscovered her love of ice. She was given a trip to Viseu and time on their ice rink as a Christmas gift. It was on this trip that her life changed when she discovered they had a figure skating club, which hosted national championships. A member of the club spotted her talent and they asked her to take part in the adult category, which is for ages 28+.

Caroline participated in the Portuguese Championships last year, where she won a silver medal, after falling while doing a pirouette, which she puts down to nerves. But it reignited her competitive spirit. “I had so much fun! I skated with a 31-year-old dress and my 40-year-old skates, all while being a proud member of the 50+ club!” Caroline says with a twinkle in her eye.

In her professional life, Caroline wears many hats as a coach, mentor, and keynote speaker on leadership, communication and resilience. “Having a hobby like figure skating beautifully complements my work,” she remarks. “It gives me the tools to develop a positive mental outlook and defeat challenges

WORDS Sophie Sadler

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and nerves.” To keep fit, Caroline also enjoys walking along the coast and practising meditation. She is interested in health and mental well-being.

In her free time, Caroline is also a member of the Algarvians amateur dramatics group in the Algarve. She drew on her experience of performing quick costume changes in ice skating performances to assist the wardrobe department in their production of Sister Act. It was through this that she met choreographer Shelly, who helped her put together her routine.

She engages a personal trainer to help maintain her strength and agility, especially when approaching competitions, complementing her physical routine with cardio and choreography rehearsals in her living room.

Training for figure skating in the Algarve poses its challenges, as Caroline navigates the scarcity of ice rinks in the region. “I rejoice whenever I can skate at the Christmas market rink in Lagoa, but most often I must drive to Viseu or Covilhã—500 km away!” she explains. “Usually, I get to do the full program with the whole rink to myself a few hours before the competition. During my performance, a few things get improvised as well!”

In early April, the Portuguese Championships in figure skating (on ice) took place in Covilhã in the Serra da Estrela area. Caoline returned with a fresh outfit, new skates, but the same indomitable spirit and determination not to repeat the mistake. The competition requires you to perform one technical routine for which you are awarded points for your skating skills and the tricks you perform, like pirouettes and jumps. This time, there were no errors and she took the gold medal in her category.

Beyond the technical demands of the sport, Caroline expresses what keeps her enamoured with figure skating. “The wind in my face, gliding on the ice – it makes me feel free. The fusion of technical skill and artistry is what fascinates me the most,” she enthuses, describing how the

sport intertwines strength with elegance and storytelling with speed.

Looking ahead, Caroline has ambitious plans. There are various training camps and competitions for adults throughout Europe, and she intends to participate in one in Montpellier, southern France, in July. Every year, there are competitions for adults in Oberstdorf, Germany. She missed registration this year, but she wants to compete next year. “It’s an opportunity to learn new skills and draw inspiration from fellow adult skaters,” she reveals. “I hope to inspire younger skaters and adults alike to pursue their passions,” she shares.

Caroline Grégoire’s triumph in the Portuguese Championships is a testament to her passion and resilience—an example for anyone who believes that age and circumstance should never be barriers to pursuing what you love. With her remarkable achievement, Caroline serves as an inspiring example that age and access to facilities, or lack thereof, need not hinder one’s passion.

Sports Round Up

If you wish to publicise a sporting event, please contact our sports editor, David Lugg: david@tomorrowalgarve.com

Sport

Portimão City Council have signed a series of contracts to help local athletes participate in national and international sports development. The athletes compete in a wide range of sports including rallying, surfing, mountain biking and judo.

Darts

Portugal has been knocked out of the World Cup of Darts in the Qualifying round. Following consecutive defeats to Germany and Singapore, the Portuguese team, led by ex-world number six José de Sousa, failed to progress to the knockout stages.

Motorsport

Rugby

The British and Irish Lions rugby team have arrived in the Algarve for their training camp before they depart for their tour to Australia. The 38-man squad will use the facilities of The Campus at Quinta do Lago before they head to Dublin for a friendly against Argentina.

Sebastian Ogier has won the Vodafone Rally de Portugal for a recordextending seventh time. The French driver’s 65th rally victory sees him close in on championship leader Elfyn Evans. “It’s something I can be proud of, to stay competitive after all these years,” said 41-year-old Ogier. Armindo Araújo was once again the best-placed Portuguese driver, finishing in 26th place.

The Algarve Pro Racing team has completed its tenth appearance at the 24 Hours of Le Mans. The Portuguese outfit, based near Albufeira, finished 8th and 13th in their class, respectively.

Para-canoeing

Norberto Mourão has won the gold medal in the VL2 class at the European Marathon Championships in Ponta da Lima. The Algarve athlete described the 12km course as “quite challenging” but was appreciative of the support he received from followers and family. He will soon compete at the European Championships of Speed, one of the most prestigious events of the 2025 European para-canoeing circuit.

Football

Sporting Lisbon, the current Portuguese champions, will play two pre-season friendly matches against Celtic and Sunderland at the Estádio do Algarve, near Faro. Rui Borges’s men will take on the Scottish champions on 16 July before their match against English Premiership newcomers Sunderland on 21 July.

The Portugal men’s team have won the Nation’s League following a frenetic final against neighbours Spain. Cristiano Ronaldo scored the equaliser to make it 2-2 and send the teams through to extra time and ultimately a penalty shootout. Ruben Neves converted the final kick to ensure that Portugal are the first side to win two Nation’s League titles. Algarve players Gonçalo Ramos and João Neves both played in the final, with the former scoring one of the decisive penalties.

The Portugal women’s team have finished their Nation’s League campaign with a 3-0 defeat in Belgium. The result sees them finish bottom of the four-team group and they will drop into the second tier for the next tournament.

Netball

Portugal Netball have announced the details for their 2025 national tournament. The ‘Portugal Netball Festival’ will take place in Lisbon on the weekend of the 1st and 2nd of November and it promises to be the biggest and best competition to have been held in the country. This year’s event will feature both walking and running competitions as well as youth matches and international athletes. If you are interested in competing, please send a WhatsApp message to +44 7967 407713 or email info@movesports.com.

Tennis

Nuno Borges and Henrique Rocha have made history by reaching the third round of the Roland Garros, French Open. This is the first time a Portuguese player has reached this stage of the tournament. Borghes stunned world number nine Casper Ruud in four sets – 2-6, 6-4, 6-1, 6-0 – for his first win over a top ten opponent. Rocha came through a tough 5-set match against up-and-coming star Jakub Mensik. Both players were defeated in round 4.

Inês Murta has marked her return from injury by winning the W15 doubles tournament in Monastir, Tunisia. The 28-year-old from Vila Real de Santo Antonio also reached the semi-finals and two quarter-finals in two subsequent W15 singles competitions. Her fine form has helped her reclaim number three on the women’s Portuguese tennis rankings.

An Olympic Hopeful

Alexandre Bernardo may be only seventeen, but he has established himself as one of the most exciting prospects in Portuguese badminton and an Olympic hopeful. David Lugg speaks to Alexandre about how he became interested in the sport and what the future holds for Portuguese badminton.

WORDS David Lugg PHOTOGRAPHY Sayaret Selyan

Born in the Algarve, Alexandre competes for the ACD Che Lagoense club, near Lagoa. Despite his tender years, he has already compiled an impressive list of national and international achievements, including representing Portugal from under-13 to under-19 age groups.

Notable highlights include the European Championships (held in Ibiza and Vilnius) and the Junior World Championships (in Nanchang, China). In 2024, he was selected for the Olympic Hopes Project, with the goal of preparing for the Olympic Games in Los Angeles (2028) and Brisbane (2032).

At what age did you start playing badminton?

I’ve been playing since I was six. It all started during the school holidays when I had training sessions with a coach (who is still my main coach). She suggested training with the rest of the group and I liked it.

What made you choose badminton over other popular sports such as football or handball?

I chose badminton because it’s always a very dynamic and fast sport, and I noticed the energy with which the athletes played. I played football for two years, but I soon realised that badminton was where I wanted to make my career.

You are just seventeen, but you have already represented Portugal for six years. It must be so exciting to play for your country?

Playing for Portugal at international level is always a great source of pride. I have a commitment to my country, my players and coaches and all the people who accompany me. I’m always very happy to carry the flag to the highest level of badminton.

What are your biggest strengths as a badminton player? I consider myself a warrior. I fight for every point as if it were my last. I take any opportunity I get to show who I am and make the most of the moment. I’m the kind of person who doesn’t give up easily; in fact, I don’t give up at all and I face every challenge with my head held high.

Have you met any of your badminton idols?

Unfortunately, I haven’t had the chance to meet my badminton idols because most of the people I identify with, are from Asia. However, I’ve had the opportunity to meet many talented players throughout my badminton career, including Duarte Anjo, who was an Olympian.

What do you envision for the future of badminton in Portugal? Is it going in the right direction?

Portuguese badminton is on the right track. We’ve had our ups and downs, but this year we’ve changed management and, as athletes, we’re being listened to more. We’re also investing more in training and in the goals that each athlete creates. I think this is a great step towards the evolution not only of the athletes, but also of the team and the coaches that are present in each athlete’s life.

What would you say to someone (young or old) who wants to try badminton for the first time?

Badminton is a sport for all ages, so make sure you have fun and make the most of the time you have. It’s a dynamic sport and with a lot of learning, you can work hard on your motor skills.

There is no doubt that Alexandre has the natural ability to reach the top of Portuguese badminton. However, like any young athlete, he requires the support of sponsors. If you are interested in helping with the costs of training and travel, do get in contact with him and help him reach his enormous potential.

alexmbernardo07@gmail.com

day and night

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Summer Slowdown

Embracing the art of doing less

As the Algarve’s sun-soaked days stretch long and warm, we’re reminded of nature’s gentle invitation: slow down, rest, and savour the moment. Yet, many of us feel a quiet pressure to stay busy – as if our worth depends on our productivity.

What if, this summer, you gave yourself permission to do less? To trade the frantic rush for the sweet stillness of a lazy afternoon, or to linger a little longer over morning coffee without a to-do list looming overhead.

Doing less doesn’t mean you’re being lazy. In fact, slowing down can be the most nourishing act of self-care. It’s a chance to reconnect with what matters, to tune into your inner voice, and to let your body and mind recharge.

When we slow down, we make space for the simple joys we often overlook. We notice the salty breeze on our skin, the laughter of friends

drifting over café tables, and the quiet peace of an early evening swim. In these small, unhurried moments, we rediscover what it feels like to be fully present and alive.

This month, I invite you to notice the places where you can create space. Can you swap a busy evening for a sunset stroll on the beach? Can you say no to a social event you don’t really want to attend? Allow the Algarve’s summer magic to guide you – and discover the gifts that come from simply being.

Because when you give yourself the chance to slow down, you open the door to a more joyful and fulfilling summer – one that nourishes you from the inside out.

www.AlgarveTherapyCentre.com +351 937 596 679

Contact Lenses + Hot Weather…

WORDS João Albano

The heat is on, the sun’s out, and all you want is to enjoy summer to the fullest, whether you’re at the beach, dancing at festivals, or just chilling in the park. But if you wear contact lenses, there are a few essential tips to keep your eyes cool, comfy, and safe all season long.

1. Stay hydrated

Hot weather means thirsty eyes and lenses don’t help.Tip: Always carry a bottle of water and sip throughout the day. A hydrated body = happy eyes.

2. Lubricating drops are your summer sidekick

If your eyes start feeling dry and gritty, a good eye drop (made for lens wearers!) can work wonders. Avoid drops with preservatives and stick to ones labelled safe for contact lenses.

3. Sunglasses aren’t just for style

Even if your lenses have UV protection, sunglasses are still a must. They act as a shield for your eyes, guarding them from the sun, wind, and sand, and they give you that cool, mysterious vibe.

4. Lenses + water = not a good mix

Whether it’s the sea, the pool, or a river, swimming with lenses can be risky. Bacteria don’t take the summer off! If you must, go with daily disposable lenses and wear swimming goggles. Then toss the lenses right after.

5. Clean hands first, always Sunscreen, sand, sweat… and then you touch your eye? It´s a big no. Always wash your hands thoroughly before putting in or removing your lenses.

6. Sleeping in lenses? Only if you’re asking for trouble.

Even if you’re completely worn out after a beach day or festival, remove your lenses before bed (unless your optometrist has told you it´s OK to sleep with them).

7. Make a mini emergency kit

You never know when a lens might tear, pop out, or your eyes suddenly get dry. Pack: a clean case, solution, lubricating drops, and if possible, a spare pair of lenses (or backup glasses).

8. Red eyes, burning, or blurry vision? Don’t ignore it.

Maybe it’s just tiredness… or perhaps it’s an infection. If your eyes don’t feel right, remove the lenses and consult an optician.

So, can you wear contacts in summer? Absolutely! Just take these simple precautions and you can enjoy every sunny day without worries (or tears).

Need new contact lenses? Visit Algarvisão, we’ll help you find the perfect type for your summer plans.

We’ve put together a handy checklist on our blog at www.algarvisao.pt that you can print out and take with you this summer.

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Mind the (Thigh) Gap!

Why Water Alone Is Not Always Enough

In earlier years, it was a morning ritual. I’d get out of bed, stand up, put my legs together and look down to see if I had ‘space’ between my thighs –that coveted thigh gap.

Over my life, I’ve been hefty and I’ve been skinny, but always, I kept an eye on the gap. When I didn’t have one, I felt fat and ashamed. When I had one, I told myself it wasn’t enough. I’d bend down, pull the fat back from the front of my legs, and imagine how much better it could look.

Believe me, my skin crawls just saying that out loud. But that’s the point of this self-imposed experiment. I’m airing these thoughts to confront them, challenge their grip, and maybe inspire others to question their own internal scripts.

While I don’t do the morning assessing anymore, I still scan the mirror, eyes darting to my thighs. That little perverse ritual got a well-deserved kick recently when I joined group weightlifting –and realised I’d have to say goodbye to the gap.

Liberation from the thigh gap

Enter Claudia, our petite, hard-bodied, and relentlessly upbeat instructor, who casually shattered the thigh gap myth by noting that muscle – yep, the very stuff we’re building – will eventually “fill it in.”

It was a day I remember well in that, at first, I was startled by the thought of letting go of this shame goblin that had subtly kept me fixated on my perceived flaws. But then, later, I watched myself gaining ease with the idea that fitness meant no thigh gap (for me anyway).

As a woman whose sense of identity has been closely tied to her appearance, this shift has been incredibly liberating. It was one of those sneaky little shame rituals I didn’t realise had me in its grip. Like a lot of women (and, let’s be honest, plenty of men), I’ve let my mirror (subconsciously) dictate my worth for years.

I consider this kind of awareness real progress. The journey is about catching those old, self-critical thoughts we’ve carried for years and finally choosing to let them go. It’s about redefining beauty and health on our own terms.

Becca Williams is an emotions therapist and clinician who helps people free themselves from emotional burdens, traumas, and limiting beliefs to live more fulfilling lives. Contact her at becca@emotionallib.com

Many of us walk around mildly dehydrated all year, and this often worsens in the summer. By the time we feel thirsty, we are usually already dehydrated. Even a one per cent drop in hydration can affect mood, memory and energy levels, and on hot days, that can happen quickly.

As temperatures rise, we naturally reach for more water. However, even if we are drinking plenty, we might still feel tired, have a headache, or feel sluggish. That is where electrolytes come in.

Electrolytes are essential minerals, including sodium, potassium, and magnesium. They help the body maintain fluid balance, support muscles, and keep the brain and nervous system functioning properly. When we sweat, we lose not only water but also these minerals.

Water on its own does not replace what is lost. When dehydration begins, the body first pulls water from the muscles and connective tissues. This can leave us feeling stiff or less flexible. If it continues, water is drawn from more vital areas, including the brain. That is when symptoms such as headaches, poor concentration, mood dips, or dizziness can appear.

One simple way to stay ahead of dehydration is to add electrolytes to your morning glass of water. After a night’s sleep, we are already slightly dehydrated, and this small habit can help boost energy, focus and mood.

Electrolytes are not just for sport or intense activity. Most of us would benefit from them every day during the summer. Whether it is a flavoured or unflavoured powder, a dissolvable tablet, or just a pinch of sea salt , it is an easy addition that can make a noticeable difference to how we feel throughout the day.

In addition to purchasing them online, electrolytes are widely available throughout the Algarve. You can find options in most supermarkets, such as Aldi and Continente, as well as in sports shops like Decathlon. Smaller local stores, including Bica Bikes in Luz, stock them too. If you are feeling particularly dehydrated, most pharmacies also carry rehydration powders and tablets designed for faster recovery.

Ann de Jongh is a health and wellbeing Coach

www.fit2lovelife.com

WORDS Ann de Jongh

Start Campus:

Portugal’s Hi-Tech Answer to the Data Age

Situated in the port-town of Sines, on the Atlantic coast of the Alentejo, a data centre is emerging from the flat coastal plain, with a mission to revolutionise Portugal’s and Europe’s tech landscape. But, Start Campus is not just any data centre – we’re talking about the largest, most advanced and sustainable AI-ready campus in Europe, with a jaw-dropping investment of €8.5 billion. This bold venture is set to position Portugal as a leading hub for AI-ready data centres, yet surprisingly, many are still unaware of it. Prepare to be amazed!

It´s all in the clouds

My journey into the world of data centres kicked off in a rather amusing ‘blonde moment’. Picture this: a Friday night, a well-deserved glass of wine, and casual chit-chat with friends. I met Davide, an engineer working on a large data centre. “Oh yes, I’ve heard of those,” I responded. “But what data are they storing?”

Davide’s enlightening reply was, “Imagine what you store in the cloud. Where do you think that is?” I took another sip of wine and thought about it. “Well, they are in the sky, aren´t they?”

After Davide had finished laughing, he informed me that our photos do not float in the ether. Instead, our treasured memories and documents reside in colossal hubs of metal boxes, which are becoming a huge focus of investment in the modern world.

Thanks to Davide and his connections, I was able to set up a Zoom call with the Chief Marketing Officer at Start Campus. But it turns out that this facility is not just any old data centre. Start Campus is constructing a 1.2 GW hyperscale campus, meticulously designed for AI, cloud, and high-performance computing workloads. The initial building, SIN01, is already operational, and with an additional 180 MW facility set to break ground later this year, the future is looking electrifying!

This groundbreaking project will feature Europe’s most sustainable data ecosystem, boasting market-leading global connectivity. The campus will be entirely powered by renewable energy, aiming for a Power Usage Effectiveness (PUE) of 1.1 and an ambitious Water Usage Effectiveness (WUE) of zero, championing the cooling abilities of the ocean. To cap it off, Start Campus is committed to achieving Net Zero across its operations.

I had the pleasure of speaking with Omer Wilson, who guided me through this hitherto unknown tech terrain. Omer brings over a decade of experience, having previously worked with Digital Realty in London and Singapore, the world’s largest data centre provider. And if none of the above made any sense to you read on and all will be explained!

The energy dilemma

Our conversation began amid headlines about the recent power outage in the Iberian Peninsula. Omer shared his insights: “Globally, energy grids are under strain as they transition to sustainable sources. I’m sure this incident will lead to extensive discussions on prevention across Europe.”

When I asked how such outages might affect data management, Omer reassured me: “Not at all. Even when our phones weren’t working, everyone’s data remains protected with backup generators.”

He did however, emphasise the crucial role data storage plays, especially in emergencies. “In my previous role, London’s Commissioner Blair highlighted data centres as a priority after emergency services. In a crisis, secure data is as vital as securing water supplies.”

What are data centres?

So, what exactly is data storage? According to Omer, it’s akin to the bulky home computers of the 1990s but massively scaled up in secured facilities. “It’s not just about storage; it’s also about processing,” he explains. The dot-com boom gave birth to an industry where large tech companies began outsourcing their data needs to dedicated facilities.

Data centres are essentially secure facilities leased by tech companies to house and operate their servers. Traditionally, large organisations like banks and telecoms maintained their own data centres, but there has been a significant shift towards outsourcing this infrastructure.

These facilities not only store data but also process it, which has become increasingly power-intensive with the rise of artificial intelligence (AI). As Omer explains, “In recent years, these sites have grown considerably. Five to ten years ago, facilities typically ranged from 10 to 20 megawatts. Our campus, set to be the largest in Europe, has a capacity of 1.2 gigawatts – representing about eight per cent of Portugal’s total energy consumption. This substantial energy demand

is largely driven by the need to train AI models, which require powerful processors and servers.”

As AI technology continues to advance, the need for efficient and robust data centres is more critical than ever.

What makes Start Campus unique?

Start Campus was founded just four years ago, primarily funded by Davidson Kempner, a top New York hedge fund, with a minority investment from Pioneer Point, a UK-based firm. Remarkably, there’s no government funding, but the project is recognised as a national critical infrastructure initiative for Portugal.

Their first building, SIN01, is already running at 30+ MW, with plans for six buildings by the completion date in the early 2030s, amounting to a staggering total investment of €8.5 billion, the largest ever international investment in Portugal.

Portugal´s existing data centres typically operate below 15 megawatts, mostly around population hubs such as Lisbon and serve the Portuguese domestic market. Start Campus will offer a home for AI and ‘GPU-as-a-Service’ providers, enabling International companies to access AI processing without the need to invest in their own infrastructure. Omer elaborates, “This service facilitates AI training, allowing companies to process extensive data to develop and refine their models.”

Coal to green

Data centres have the fundamental problem of how to power and cool down all those black boxes, which produce a huge amount of energy, which requires water cooling rather than air conditioning.

“Coal to green” generally refers to the transition from using coal as an energy source to using renewable energy sources. The facility is adjacent to the now closed-down power station, which is being decommissioned. Soon, they will take down the two funnels and the rest of the building but Start Campus is reusing its extensive seawater infrastructure.

“In a similar way to how a coal plant puts in seawater, we’re doing the same. We’re cooling our facilities using

Omer Wilson

seawater and returning it to the sea once it’s at a safe temperature – a sustainable solution that dramatically reduces our carbon footprint and water usage. This is a unique aspect of this project as well, and that’s why this location in Sines made a lot of sense,” elaborates Omer.

Why is Portugal Ideal for Data Centres?

Start Campus

Key Facts

• Up to 200kW per rack support for dense AI workloads

• Total campus will support 1.2GW of IT load, over six different buildings

• 100% renewable energy, gridsecured

• Zero water consumption — cooled with repurposed seawater

• Carrier-neutral, AI-native architecture

• Modular construction for fast, scalable deployment

• Proximity to multiple subsea cables: connecting to North America, South America, Africa, and the Middle East

Portugal is emerging as a prime location for data centres, thanks to its exceptional connectivity and competitive power costs. The Medusa Submarine Cable System, expected in 2025, will link countries across approximately 8,700 km, while Google’s Cloud cable is set to connect Portugal to the USA in 2026.

Omer emphasises the significance of Portugal’s geographical connectivity: “Portugal has the unique advantage of connecting to every continent via subsea cables, which is crucial for our facility and its customers.”

Portugal offers lower power costs comparable to those in Scandinavia, making it a more attractive option than Central and Western European cities like London and Paris. Additionally, its renewable energy mix, exceeding 80% and moving towards 90%, appeals to companies focused on sustainability. As Omer notes, “This is a big benefit for our customers, along with a well-educated, English-speaking local workforce.”

Traditional financial hubs such as London, Paris, and New York have become saturated and are struggling with power availability, prompting investors to seek alternatives. Omer states, “In the past, London has always been a key data centre location due to its financial status, but the lack of land is now an issue.”

Spain is also gaining traction in the data centre market; nonetheless, the Sines site will be a significant step-up for Portugal, Omer explains, “Our customers are tech companies serving the US and Europe, needing to conform to EU data regulations that often require data processing within the EU jurisdiction.”

The Impact on local employment

Portugal’s strategic location, favourable energy costs, and sustainable practices position it as an ideal destination for significant data centre investments but they don’t directly employ a huge number of people. “They’re not factories, they’re digital factories,” observes Omer. “You’re talking maybe 50 to a 100 max full-time on-site and then you have the customer engineers, which boosts that figure to over a hundred. However, the construction phase will employ eight to nine thousand people as a rough estimate, a lot of those will be from within Portugal.”

The Start Campus team comprises over 65 internationally diverse members. The CEO is Australian, with a strong Irish contingent, as well as representation from the UK and Spain. However, more than 50% of executives, construction leaders, and other key roles are Portuguese. Their corporate offices are located in Lisbon, where Omer is based.

A view of the future

At the conclusion of my interview with Omer, I am reminded of the feeling of walking out of a university lecture after an intense hour of trying to make notes about a subject I am struggling to understand. However, unlike my university days of trying to understand the past, this topic has provided an insight into a future governed by AI and tech. It has slightly blown my mind!

So, this is what the future looks like. And it´s happening here in Portugal.

Lagos – between the rush and hush

In Lagos, two contrasting worlds converge: on one side, the vibrant hustle of bustling crowds and the exhilarating pace of summer; on the other, the quiet contemplation of those who lose themselves in the blue of the Vicentine coast –still wild, still hidden. Lagos stands where these two worlds meet, without ever quite blending, and that’s where its true charm lies.

Written in stone and memories

For those in no rush, Lagos gradually unveils

its layers. The historic centre is an open book, written in stone and memories. Traces of Phoenician, Roman, and Moorish presence can still be found if you know how to look. Praça do Infante, now a meeting place for tourists and locals alike, was once a hub of nautical decisions and a departure point for ships sailing into the unknown. It was also here that Europe’s first slave market was built – a painful memory, yes – but one that must be acknowledged and remembered.

Be Easy Get ready for Windows 11

Over the next couple of months, I’ll be sharing advice on what to watch out for when moving from Windows 10 (which is nearing the end of its life) to Windows 11. I’ll cover choosing the right new hardware, upgrading your current setup, and making sure you get the best experience with no unexpected issues.

Why You Should Avoid Buying an Old, Windows 11-Incompatible Computer

Windows 10’s time is almost up! Microsoft is officially ending support on October 14, 2025. Buying a cheap older computer from online marketplaces, a friend, a local store or even a charity shop may seem like a good idea; however, it may not be able to run Windows 11, it could

cause more headaches than it’s worth. Here’s why:

• Security risks – Older systems miss out on security updates, making them easy targets for hackers and malware.

A Taste of Honey

Further inland, as you climb the hills of Cotifo, the landscape shifts. Open vistas dotted with olive trees and rockroses invite you to pause. This is where Mel do Cotifo is born, crafted by the small and dedicated Melaria da Bravura. One taste and you’ll know – this is no ordinary honey.

Handmade in hives scattered between the barrel and the Espinhaço de Cão hills, this honey is distinguished by the variety of flowers from which it comes. Lavender, strawberry tree, rockrose, and even orange blossom combine into a dense, aromatic, and surprising nectar. Unlike many honeys from other regions, typically made from a single flower, Algarve honey is a spontaneous blend that changes with the seasons and the year. It’s a faithful reflection of both land and time.

You’ll find it at Mar d’Estórias, waiting to be taken home – not as a keepsake, but as an extension of the flavours of this land.

A sweet piece of the south, bottled with care and time.

 mardestorias.com info@mardestorias.com

• Slower performance – Outdated hardware can’t keep up with modern apps, leading to frustrating lag, crashes, and long load times.

• Limited software support – Some apps and programs stop working on old operating systems, meaning you’ll miss out on new features and updates.

• Worn-out hardware – Batteries degrade, hard drives slow down, and other components might need costly repairs or replacements.

• No modern features – Windows 11 comes with better security, smarter multitasking, and performance boosts—none of which you’ll get on an old PC.

It’s worth investing in something newer to avoid the hassle. If you need help picking the right machine or seeing if it’s possible to upgrade what you currently have? I’m here to help.

 +351 936 387 512 www.stevendunwell.com Facebook: StevenLagosIT

Currency made simple

Whether you’re paying an overseas mortgage, covering tuition fees, or managing living expenses, GC Partners offers a reliable and cost-effective way to make regular international transfers - giving you peace of mind while you focus on what really matters.

Contact us or visit our offices in Lagos or Vilamoura

+44 (0) 203 974 4738

+351 289 093 137 portugal@gcpartners.co www.gcpartners.co

Discover the Ultimate Coastal Experience with

Folie Motor Yacht

In our beautiful corner of the Algarve, where the sun meets the sea, an exciting venture is turning heads along the coastline. The Folie Motor Yacht, owned by local visionaries Luis Domingues and Jose Baroa, offers an unforgettable exploration of Portugal’s stunning waters.

Luis and Jose, rooted in the rich maritime traditions of their fishing families, acquired the sleek Folie in April 2024, driven by a passionate desire to share the beauty of the Algarve’s coastline through luxury boating experiences. With a deep love for the sea, they have meticulously equipped the yacht for both day charters and longer voyages, ensuring a comfortable and stylish retreat at sea.

Under the expert guidance of Captain Luis, who speaks six languages, guests are invited to indulge in a luxurious experience aboard the yacht. With a maximum of 10 guests, each outing becomes an intimate affair, where you can sip champagne and savour exquisite tapas while

soaking in the panoramic views of the Algarve coastline.

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply looking to create lasting memories, a day on the Folie Motor Yacht is more than just a trip—it’s a lifestyle experience that embodies the essence of ‘La Dolce Vita’.

Folie Motor Yacht operates three distinct daily trips tailored to suit various desires:

Morning Cruise: Set sail from 10 am to 1.30 pm for a refreshing start to your day.

Afternoon Escape: Discover hidden coves and breathtaking views from 2 pm to 5.30 pm.

Sunset ‘Proposal’ Cruise: Experience a magical evening on the water from 6 pm to 8 pm, perfect for those special moments.

Ready to embark on your adventure? Luis is just a call away on +351 917 423 883, or book your experience online at www.lagosyachtrentals.com

The Sky's the Limit

In a bold move to enhance its maritime offerings and attract more sailing enthusiasts to the stunning Algarve region, Marina de Lagos has announced a partnership with Altitude Angel, a premier provider of drone traffic management technology. This innovative platform aims to seamlessly integrate drone operations with the marina’s bustling activities, ushering in a new era of technology.

Situated in the heart of the Algarve, Marina de Lagos boasts over 470 berths and is well-known for its breathtaking views and exceptional sailing conditions. With recreational drone flights already capturing stunning aerial footage of sailing boats and the scenic coastline, the marina is now poised to expand these possibilities by introducing new services tailored to the needs of its clientele. Imagine drone delivery services

transporting items directly to boats anchored offshore – this futuristic concept is now within reach!

The Altitude Angel platform allows drone operators to gain local authorisation digitally, streamlining the flight approval process through the user-friendly Drone Assist App or via DroneSafetyMap.com. Once operators receive their official flight permits from Portuguese authorities, they can expect instant local approvals, significantly simplifying logistics for both recreational and commercial drone use.

Martinho Fortunato, CEO of Marina de Lagos, highlighted the marina’s commitment to innovation, stating, “This partnership with Altitude Angel represents a significant step forward in efficiently managing our airspace. We are eager to share our experiences at the upcoming World Marina Conference.”

Chris Forster, CEO of Altitude Angel, emphasised the importance of this initiative, stating that it will promote “greater understanding and management of shared airspace, ensuring safe and secure drone operations”.

This latest development not only reinforces the marina’s reputation as a key player in nautical tourism but also signals a bright future for the Algarve region as a beacon for innovation and investment.

Marina de Lagos Takes to the Skies with New Drone Control Platform
WORDS Sophie Sadler

Top Floor 2 Bedroom Apartment with Modern Lines & High Quality Finishes

625,000 € | Ref.: A432

Modern top-floor 2-bedroom apartment in a residential area, steps from shops, cafes, and schools, and 20 minutes from the historic centre. Features a sunny terrace, spacious living/dining area, fully equipped kitchen, two bathrooms, and fitted wardrobes. Includes air-conditioning, solar panels, parking, storage, and access to a rooftop pool with sea views—perfect for convenient, comfortable living.

Albufeira and Cabanas de Tavira
LAGOS - PORTIMÃO - ALMANCIL - ALCANTARILHA - OLHÃO - ALBUFEIRA - CABANAS DE TAVIRA

That Asian Home Cook

Soy Marinated Steak on the Grill

It’s summertime! That is your cue to fire up the barbecue. I have an Asian-inspired steak recipe to share with you. I do love a good steak myself. Typically, with a really good, fresh cut of meat, no marinade is necessary – some good olive oil, salt, and pepper are all you need.

However, I also love a good marinade on my steak, with all those spices deeply infused into the meat overnight, preferably, bringing out different dimensions of flavour. In fact, the current school of thought is that if you season and marinade your steak 24-48 hours uncovered in the fridge, it can act as a brine, tenderising and deeply flavouring your piece of meat. As you know, I always keep my recipes fuss-free, so here’s my go-to for a quick soy-marinated grilled steak, which I hope you’ll enjoy on these sunny summer days!

Ingredients

• 120-150 g sirloin steak (per person)

• 1 tbsp light soy sauce

• 1 tsp oyster sauce

• 1 tsp honey

• ¼ tsp garlic powder

• ¼ tsp ginger powder

• ¼ tsp black pepper

• ¼ tsp sea salt

Instructions

Bring all the ingredients together in a bowl and mix thoroughly. Spread the mixture evenly on the steak and marinate overnight,

Joy Entry Steak Internal Temperature Guide (Remove from the grill/ once it reaches this temperature)

either uncovered in the fridge or in a ziplock bag if you prefer. Marinate any vegetables you like with the same marinade in a separate bag.

Take your steaks out of the fridge ahead of cooking time (60 mins), bringing them to room temperature before you grill. This helps your steak cook evenly. I like to bring my grill up to a very high temperature, around 240-250°C. Do not place your steak on the grill before it is really hot, or you will not achieve the ideal sear.

Lightly oil your steak and then place it directly over the grill when it has reached the desired temperature. Please resist the urge to flip your steak over more than a couple of times. For a 1-inch steak, 5-7 minutes is all you need for medium-rare, which is my preference. You can also use a thermometer for a more accurate gauge. Below you will find a chart indicating the different types of grill inner temperatures to reference.

Once you have cooked your steak, rest it for 5-10 minutes. While your steak is resting, you can oil and flash-grill vegetables of your choice. Asparagus, capsicum and courgette cook perfectly directly on the grill. For vegetables like spinach, tomatoes, and mushrooms, I often place a pan on the grill to flash-fry with some butter. Now you are ready to assemble and enjoy your piece of steak!

Joy Entry is a Malaysian home cook based in Lagos who is obsessed with the provocative, unapologetic flavours of South-East Asian cuisine

Instagram: @thatasianhomecook joyentry@gmail.com

A Historical Journey of Orange in the Algarve More Than a Crop

Portugal’s southern coast is famous for its idyllic beaches and picturesque villages, yet beyond the allure of its coastline lies another defining feature, just as prevalent: the ever-present groves of citrus trees, laden with the region’s signature golden fruit.

The orange, more than just a crop, is deeply embedded in the Algarve’s history, economy, and identity. Its cultivation represents a centuries-old saga of agricultural change and ingenuity. But, the history of the Iberian orange, dating back to the 8th century, doesn’t have Portuguese or Spanish roots, but rather Moorish.

It was the Moors who introduced citrus fruits, including the bitter orange (also known as the Seville orange), to the Iberian Peninsula. Oranges were initially valued for medicinal properties, fragrant blossoms, and decorative beauty rather than as a staple food source.

The sophisticated irrigation systems developed by the Moors, many of which still influence agricultural practices today, were crucial for large-scale cultivation that would follow centuries later. Their innovative approach to water management transformed arid lands into lush gardens, creating the perfect conditions for citrus to thrive.

The sweet orange

The sweet orange, which we primarily consume today, arrived in Europe much later, around the 15th century, brought back by Portuguese explorers from their voyages to Asia. However, it was not until the 18th and 19th centuries that orange production in the Algarve began its significant ascent, with a more commercially oriented approach. A veritable boom occurred in the 19th century when landowners decided to invest heavily in planting new groves and expanding cultivation further inland from the coastal strips. It was then that the British merchants recognised the potential of the Algarve’s sweet oranges, perfectly ripened under the Atlantic sun, and established trade routes that would carry the fruit from the sun-drenched groves of southern Portugal to the demanding markets of northern Europe, particularly Britain itself.

The 20th century brought both opportunities and challenges. While orange production remained a cornerstone of the Algarve’s economy, it also faced periods of volatility due to market fluctuations, wars, pest outbreaks, and increasing global competition. However, the industry adapted, adopting modern agricultural practices, improving packaging, and investing in research to develop more resilient varieties and efficient irrigation systems.

A symbol of the Algarve

Today, the orange remains an iconic symbol of the Algarve, tracing its historical journey from a Moorish introduction to a global commodity that reflects a fascinating narrative of agricultural innovation, trade, and the enduring resilience of a region deeply connected to its golden fruit.

The sweet aroma that pervades the Algarve’s air during the blossoming season is not just a pleasant scent; it is the fragrant echo of centuries of cultivation, a testament to the golden legacy that continues to define this sun-kissed corner of Portugal. The enduring connection to citrus is evident in local cuisine, festivals celebrating the harvest, and the very landscape itself, where groves stretch as far as the eye can see, a vibrant testament to a fruit that is both a daily pleasure and a symbol of the region’s rich past.

So, maybe when you see a roadside stall selling the sweet manna of the Algarve, stop and pick some up. While you’re enjoying its flavour, think about its past.

WORDS Dan Costinas

Tom's Tastebuds

Once again, Tom has been selflessly sacrificing his waistline to find our readers some great food to enjoy over the summer break. It´s a tough job, but someone has to do it!

Why is it that chicken and fish taste better when grilled over charcoal in the open air? And at this time of year, there is an abundance of plump sardines, butterflyed dourada and sea bass available. That is why we love living here in the Algarve. At O Moinho in Lagos, you can enjoy local hospitality, inexpensive meals, a great selection of drinks, and experience life as a local.

Last year, the former snack bar blossomed into a lunchtime restaurant serving delicious grilled meals at extremely reasonable prices. However, this year, you can also enjoy the barbecue experience in the early evening. This is great news for all the people who have been raving about the food, which includes fish, rawns, pork, succulent homemade cheeseburgers, and chicken kebabs.

With a half-litre jarro of wine reasonably priced at €4, a halfchicken at €8, and a cheeseburger at €8, you can easily enjoy a feast for less than €12 per head. All the time sitting on the charming terrace, which is discreetly screened by bougainvillaea and climbing jasmine, outside a historic windmill, only a short walk from Lagos city centre.

The grill has become a firm favourite of Julie’s and mine, so we may see you there one evening. But rememberMonday is their one day off!

Literally located just a few steps from the beach in the beautiful coastal village of Luz, this unassuming restaurant has been attracting locals and tourists for years with its beach-shack vibes and delicious food.

The original Pizza Real is a rustic and fun cabinstyle restaurant with a welcoming outdoor seating area offering lovely sea views. Whether you’re dining in or ordering a takeaway, this is the perfect spot to enjoy delicious food in a relaxed setting at very reasonable prices.

More than just a pizza place, it is known for its extensive menu featuring a wide variety of pizza, pasta, salads, burgers and flavourful Indian dishes, including vegan options to suit everyone.

Enjoy a friendly, laid-back atmosphere, attentive service, and excellent value. House wine is available for just €3.30 a glass and there’s a great selection of wines and beers to complement your meal.

Booking is a good idea to ensure you’re not disappointed, as their reputation stretches far and wide in the area.

WORDS Tom Henshaw

Rosemary Potatoes & Tofu Saganaki with Feta Cheese

Finally, summer is here. I am continuing my culinary journey as we travel to Greece. The country of the theatre, the Olympic Games, ancient history, the breathtaking island landscape, delicious food and fantastic wine!

Tofu Saganaki (4-6 People)

Vegan Recipe Daring Food & Wine with Soul

Ingredients

• 300g tofu

• 1 can of tomatoes (see tip)

• 3 garlic cloves

• 1/2 red pepper

I love Greek food! The spices and ingredients used in Greek dishes make them some of the most flavourful and mouth-watering in the world. What makes Greek dishes truly unique are the fresh, natural ingredients, the diverse flavours, the herbs, and feta cheese! So this month I decided to make vegan rosemary potatoes with feta and tofu Saganaki. You can enjoy it with your family or friends. Let’s get started!

Rosemary Potatoes (4-6 People)

Ingredients

• 1 kg potatoes

• 1 red bell pepper

• 3 tablespoons olive oil

• 8-10 green olives

• 3 garlic cloves

• 1 onion

• 1/2 tsp oregano

• 1 tsp paprika powder

• Salt and pepper (as much as you like)

• Feta cheese (as much as you like)

• 1/2 bunch of parsley

Preparation and cooking

• Rosemary (as much as you like)

• 1 tsp paprika

• 1 tsp oregano

• 1/2 tsp basil

• 100ml water

• 100ml white wine

• Feta cheese (add at your discretion)

• Salt and pepper

• Juice of 1/4 lemon

Preparation and cooking

Peel the potatoes and cut them into small cubes. Arrange them in a casserole. Chop the onion and garlic and add to the potatoes. Next, cut the bell pepper into cubes and put them aside.

Now, place all the spices and herbs, olive oil, water and wine in the casserole and put it into the preheated oven at 200 oC for 25 minutes. Add the bell pepper and return it to the oven for an additional 10 minutes. At last, remove the dish from the oven and crumble the feta cheese on top. Then, add the olives and lemon juice.

First, cut the tofu into small cubes and marinate with olive oil, garlic and paprika powder for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight. Cut the bell pepper into cubes, then fry the tofu in a pan. Add the red pepper and the spices, and fry for 10 minutes. Next, add the tomato sauce and continue cooking for an additional 10 minutes.

Crumble the feta cheese on top and remove it from the heat; it is now ready to serve.

Benefits

No Greek dish is complete without olives! Olives are known to be rich in vitamin E and other antioxidants, while olive oil is a healthier alternative to other cooking oils.

Tip

Usually, I use homemade tomato sauce from the freezer. If you don’t have any, you can use canned tomato sauce as an alternative. You can find vegan feta cheese at Natur Boticae in Lagos or Celeiro in Portimão.

Irreverente Food & Wine, Lagos

Tucked away on the charming Praça do Município 29, just a stone’s throw from the Lagos marina, you’ll find this recently opened gem. An intimate and stylish space with just five tables inside, three outside, and three bar stools. It’s one of those rare spots you discover and instantly fall in love with. The vibe is warm, relaxed, and modern – perfect for anyone who appreciates great food, good music, and excellent wine.

A top team

Irreverente combines a strong wine-focused concept with high-quality, creative cuisine. Owner and chef Carmen runs the small open kitchen, where she prepares each dish with passion and boldness. Morris, her partner in service, brings a laid-back, personal touch to the experience. Together they make a top team: hands-on, knowledgeable, and full of heart.

What makes Irreverente truly special is that both meat lovers and vegetarians will find something to get excited about. Each dish is thoughtfully crafted, beautifully presented, and bursting with flavour. Expect a creative blend of Portuguese ingredients and modern cooking techniques. Vegan options are also available – just ask. The wine list is impressive, and the cocktails are a treat. Don’t hesitate to ask the team for pairing suggestions –they know their stuff.

Intimate atmosphere, music and good vibes

The setting is cosy and modern, with the kind of background music that makes you want to take the playlist home – think soulful classics like 2Pac’s “Do for Love”. Irreverente is more than a restaurant – it’s a place to enjoy the moment, the people, and the full experience. In today’s fast-paced world, people are craving meaningful experiences – quality, ambience, and connection. Irreverente delivers all of that. The all-in-one concepts that combine daring food, top wines, and a welcoming vibe are clearly on the rise. No stiff fine dining – just honest, flavourful food, expert advice, and a relaxed setting. Irreverente nails it: it feels like coming home, only with better wine and even better food.

Review by Peter Cruiming, Hotspots Algarve – visit www. HotspotsAlgarve.com for over 350 Algarve restaurant reviews.

Discover Culinary Magic at Gecko Restaurant with

Chef Elisabete Oliveira

Nestled amidst the stunning backdrop of the Algarve, Gecko Restaurant at the Espiche Golf Club is thrilled to introduce its new head chef, Elisabete Oliveira. A proud native of Lagos, Elisabete brings a wealth of culinary expertise and a deep passion for Mediterranean gastronomy to this serene dining destination.

Elisabete’s culinary journey began serendipitously at the age of 18 when she took on a hotel job. What started as a mere job transformed into a lifelong love affair with the kitchen’s vibrant energy and the teamwork that comes with it. To hone her skills, she trained at the prestigious Algarve School of Hospitality and Tourism, where she developed a profound respect for the art of cooking and the foundations of gastronomy.

In her new role at Gecko, Elisabete is excited to shift her focus from the hectic world of hotels to a more intimate dining experience. “Cooking is a way of caring,” she shares, emphasising her approach to cuisine that respects the bounty of the land and sea while bringing joy to every table. This philosophy is

A Taste of Excellence

reflected in her menu, which showcases the simplicity of fresh, well-handled ingredients sourced from local producers, often within a 30-kilometre radius. Experience the freshest catch directly from local fishermen, skillfully prepared to bring out the natural flavours of the Algarve.

Under Elisabete’s leadership, Gecko has recently undergone a transformation, evolving into a warm and inviting space that celebrates local ingredients and dishes rooted in Mediterranean tradition. She has not only redefined the menu but has also cultivated a motivated team, fostering a collaborative environment that enhances the quality of both the food and the service.

Visit Gecko for an unforgettable culinary experience where each dish tells a story of creativity, passion, and authenticity. Allow Chef Elisabete Oliveira to guide you through a delightful journey of flavours that embody the essence of the Algarve. With every bite, discover a taste of truth amidst the tranquil beauty of this remarkable region.

Twenty years ago, our date nights revolved around Dom Sebastiao for grilled fish. The thought of a Michelin-star restaurant in Lagos seemed fanciful. Our posh outings also comprised club sandwiches at the old Palmares clubhouse, now replaced by a contemporary Michelin-star restaurant that channels Al-Andalus architecture and offers a warm atmosphere.

We arrived with scepticism, questioning ‘what could be so special?’ But as the charming maître d’ guided us to the terrace for champagne and an amuse-bouche, we were sold! The view over Lagos Bay and the Atlantic made even the most sceptical diner swoon.

Al Sud’s establishment is a testament to the rise of Portuguese cuisine. Until recently, Portugal shared the Michelin Guide with Spain, but February 2024 ushered in a new culinary era with the first Michelin Guide Gala held in the Algarve.

Our tasting menu took us on a delightful journey of maritime flavours, intertwining familiar Portuguese tastes. One amusebouche was a twist on marinated carrots, while another featured a deconstructed bacalao à brás. We relished slices of sourdough – a staple in any Algarve restaurant – while the attentive servers described each dish overflowing with local ingredients, from oysters to turbot with bivalves and bulhão pato. The addition of saffron, cumin, and coriander elevated the dining experience, showcasing the culinary history of Al Sud.

Our sommelier regaled us with stories behind each wine pairing, enhancing our joy with every bite.

Such a culinary experience doesn’t come cheap. But with just eight tables, Al Sud offers a uniquely personal experience, and its consistently full bookings attest to the demand for high-end dining in the Algarve.

Date nights are a rarity for my husband and I, so when we do indulge, it’s essential to make it memorable. Al Sud was the perfect choice, transforming an ordinary evening into an extraordinary experience.

Since opening in 2021 and winning a Michelin star in 2022, chef Louis Anjos and his team have created a tasting menu brimming with Algarve-inspired seafood. “With a location like ours, focusing on seafood made perfect sense,” Chef Anjos explained, pointing out the nearby oyster farms visible from the restaurant. He hosted the Michelin inspectors at Al Sud in 2024, solidifying its reputation.

Whether it’s a date night or a special occasion, embark on a culinary adventure at Al Sud this summer and savour the luxurious flavours of Portuguese Michelinstar cuisine.

Booking: +351 926 292 617

restaurantealsud@palmaresresort.com palmaresliving.com/al-sud-restaurant

From Litter Bin to Loving Home

Cookie, Gaspar and Naya, along with their six siblings, were found, tied up in a plastic bag, in a litter bin when they were under two weeks old. They had all been left to die slowly of starvation and dehydration. Unfortunately, one of the puppies later died from pneumonia. Sadly, all the Algarve rescue centres witness this inhumane treatment regularly. Fortunately, these puppies were taken to Cadela Carlota.

We quarantine all new arrivals to prevent them from passing on a life-threatening condition, such as parvovirus. Then, they need to be seen by a vet to ensure they are healthy, dewormed, and given a gentle treatment for fleas.

The next stage is finding a foster home, and we never seem to have enough. The puppies will need to be fed every three hours until they are

weaned. At six weeks, they are microchipped and given their first vaccination. At nine weeks and 12 weeks, they receive the second and third vaccinations. At 12 weeks, they are given the allimportant rabies vaccination. But 21 days must pass before they can travel outside Portugal.

Throughout their stay at a foster home, Cookie, Gaspar, and Naya were monitored every two weeks by Cadela Carlota to ensure they were being handled regularly and would settle quickly into a home environment. To stimulate all their normal responses, toys and playtime are encouraged.

When the puppies were ready to be rehomed, we naturally ensured that this was a happy and permanent experience for them, which is why each puppy comes with five free training

Pet´s Mate

Do you want a prescription for Viagra………but you are too embarrassed to ask??

Men often feel awkward in a chemist in three different phases of their lives: first, during adolescence, when they ask the nice lady behind the counter for a packet of condoms. Boy, we used to get red-faced and run out of the pharmacy giggling with the ignominy of that one. The second is presenting the nice lady behind the counter with shhhhhhhh: ´Just for Men´ hair dye. And third would be in the senescence years, when that nice lady behind the counter is asked if she could sell us some Viagra.

I have a plan, though it be somewhat unorthodox in its execution, to avoid this last embarrassing situation in the local pharmacy. You see, Viagra (or sildenafil, being its generic name) began its life in a research lab studying medicines which decrease blood pressure

inside the lungs. What we, in the industry, call pulmonary antihypertensive medicine. During the trial period, some of the trial patients started mentioning an unexpected side effect (that´s right, a side effect doesn’t have to be detrimental).

So, as there is much more money to be made out of erectile dysfunction (not a permanently grey chameleon; that´s a reptile dysfuntion), the nice people at Pfizer decided not to launch the drug as a pulmonary antihypertensive medication, which could save people´s lives, but rather market it to old codgers who can´t get a stiffy…

So, to bring this back into our sphere of relevance: Heartworm (dirofilaria) in dogs is a parasite in the right side of the heart – a 30cm long worm and there can be lots of them. The parasite will extend into the pulmonary vasculature and the worms which die will then

sessions with Gail Skinner at Awesome Dogs Training School.

Prospective adopters were interviewed, and home visits were made. But at Cadela Carlota, our responsibility does not end there. We are always ready to help with advice at any time. After all, we have invested a great deal of effort, not to mention money, in ensuring that each puppy has the very best start in life that we can provide.

If you would like to support Cadela Carlota in this invaluable work, please visit our website and make a donation or ask about becoming a foster carer.

www.cadela-carlota.com

fly into the pulmonary arteries, causing more pulmonary hypertension. So clever vets, like us, incorporate sildenafil into our treatment, which results in fewer fatalities from this horrible disease.

So, if you are too embarrassed to ask for a prescription for Viagra, make sure not to give your dog any heartworm protection and no tick collars or spot-ons either!!! We can prescribe sildenafil for his pulmonary hypertension and then, you can divvy up the pills between the two of you. Easy peasy. Just make sure it doesn’t get stuck in your throat…you´ll end up with a stiff neck!

For now, enjoy the summer and please ensure your pet is protected against heartworm. See you next month…

Gaspar and Naya with Charline

A Day of Adventure in the

Serra da Estrela

For those willing to take a five or sixhour drive to the Serra da Estrela area, a surprising variety of different landscapes awaits. The contrast with the Algarve could not be greater; you could be on a different continent.

Linhares da Beira

At the head of the Parque Natural de la Serra da Estrela stands a small village reckoned to be one of the oldest established settlements in Portugal, Linhares da Beira. We approach it from the west, after the city of Viseu. Leaving the motorway, we pass through a gentle rural landscape punctuated by small stone villages. One such village, Vale da Ribeira, boasts a chapel consecrated in 1875, which demonstrates the local vernacular building construction style, utilising large granite blocks. A crystalclear stream runs through the hamlet, with tiny white flowers bordering its banks. I am told that the locals fish for eels in these lowland areas.

We are viewed with ill-disguised suspicion by the farm worker gathering his hay until I wave a cheery boa tarde, which he returns. A few words of Portuguese from a foreigner apparently count for something in these seldomvisited parts of the country.

The road narrows; it’s completely empty of traffic. We climb to 800 metres and Linhares comes into view. Dominated by its twin-towered castle, the village sits at the end of the road – there is no passing trade for the small restaurant and on this June day, we count less than a dozen visitors.

The castle, dating from the late 11th and early 12th centuries, is built out of huge, lichen-covered blocks of the very granite on which it stands. There are two walled enclosures separated by an archway under the massive central tower. The other tower exhibits a worrying vertical crack at its upper levels, but the damage may be hundreds of years old, so I pray it is stable.

The village is delightful – the few streets are immaculate and carefully tended flowering plants thrive. From the mountain behind, spring water gurgles through culverts and along raceways.

For all its impressiveness, the castle offers little detail to absorb, and the church is closed, so we head off southwest, skirting the edge of the Parque Natural. Our route climbs above the tree line, we cross moorland landscapes and the mountainsides are ablaze with yellow broom.

Glacier country

We pass through Sabugueiro, nestling in a cleft between steep slopes, and then climb again through scrubland. Local information boards inform the visitor that rabbits, hares, and wild boar inhabit the area, but the only animals we see are a group of cows sheltering against a dam wall. They appear as suspicious of us as the hay-maker was.

The landscape becomes more rugged and we’re now in glacier country – 30 thousand years ago, ice shaped these valleys. The plateau icefield drained to radiating valley glaciers, and today, clouds of mist roll over the rocky terrain and drift across the road. Small tarns are visible below. From one vantage point, scars on the rock are clearly visible, marking the path of the long-vanished Loriga glacier.

Even this close to the summer solstice, drifts of snow still cling to the northern slopes. Spindly ski lift gear appears on the horizon. And ahead lies the highest point in mainland Portugal – this is Torre, 1993 metres above sea level and it’s bleak! But not as bleak as the architectural contribution of 20th-century humans – tawdry twin towers topped by decaying geodesic domes ungenerously mark this noteworthy place; there’s a Centro Comercial (a shopping centre) and an animal skin store. The layout’s central feature is a fake castellated medieval tower. It bears virtually no resemblance to the real thing at Linhares and certainly doesn’t warrant a photograph.

Overall, it’s been a spectacular day. The road down bends round vertiginous drops and we carefully descend into the Alpine landscape below the Zézere glacial valley, to our hotel. Once there, I re-examine the published information and discover that Linhares da Beira is only one of the region’s 12 places identified as Aldeias Históricas de Portugal. I look at the map and take a glass of the local Beyra wine. One of those villages is not that far away. So that’s tomorrow sorted.

To be continued…….

Best Authentic Curry House in Praia da Luz

Restaurant | Take Away | Delivery

NEW 2º LOCATION

11:30 -23:30 | Fridays 17:00 - 23:30

New location, same amazing food, atmosphere and service!

Private parties (weddings, parties, events) 100+ people

Old location near the beach, open as always:

Rua da Praia 14, Praia da Luz

(+351) (+351)

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