A busy month at Quinta do Vale da Lama Sustainable living centre Quinta do Vale da Lama is gearing up for autumn and winter, with lots on offer. A pioneering Permaculture Research Design course will be hosted at on-site educational campus Campo do Vale from October 9th-13th, a gathering that promises to strengthen networks and practical work being developed in the field of permaculture research throughout the world. The Projecto Novas Descobertas (PND) Counsellor training and Summer Camp Management course (both in Portuguese) are also running this month. They aim to expand the knowledge and experience that the team has gathered over their 22 years of running summer camps. These are now increasingly focused on bringing people closer to nature. There are still places left on the courses. The following retreat programmes are available at Casa Vale da Lama EcoResort during October too… October 2nd - 8th: Heart / Healing Retreat - The Jewel of Yoga October 9th - 16th: Yoga and Surf Autumn Retreat - Develop 360º October 16th - 22nd: Food / Healing Retreat - The Jewel of Yoga The EcoResort is now open all year round. Why not visit during the autumn and winter low season for a few relaxing days either as a couple, with family or with good friends? Packages with accommodation, food and leisure activity and relaxation around the farm are available. There is also a new voucher scheme for Casa Vale da Lama and Sweet Spot Cafe, as well as offers for farm stays, experiences, meals or pizza nights. www.valedalama.net
The advantages of being an entrepreneur in Portugal Last month, Ideal Homes Portugal founder Chris White gave us an insight into how he became a successful businessman. This month, he reveals the three biggest business advantages of being an entrepreneur in Portugal… A big benefit is the lower corporation tax – it is easier to make a profit in Portugal. And the Portuguese government are very used to small and medium sized companies – they are not dominated by major corporates, which makes life easier. Secondly, there is little competition. When the crash of 2008 occurred most of the competition vaporised. Ideal Homes Portugal rode the storm and we are the ones who have benefitted from buyers returning to the market. Thirdly, the minimum wage in Portugal is €480 a month. It means I can pay a fair wage here for a whole team of experienced, bilingual telemarketers for the price of just one in London – and of course the overheads are lower here too. And one extra advantage – the sunshine makes my staff happy. Happy staff sell houses – so this is another winning formula! www.idealhomesportugal.com
TomorrowAlgarve
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