We're excited to expand our portfolio with The Creek’s luxury apartments and penthouses, perfectly located in the heart of Vilamoura
DISCOVER THE ART OF INTERIOR DESIGN
I love this time of year. And it’s not just because the shops are spilling over with all things shiny, or because the streets of every town and village are strung with sparkling lights, or because of the smell of roast chestnuts and hot mulled wine. It’s rather the cool crisp air, the brilliant green of the countryside, and the spirit of the festive season that is both positive and optimistic. That’s what we need right now, after a 2024 that has challenged the world.
Putting together an end-of-year issue is always exciting; we start the content planning early, and look back on the features of recent months that have attracted attention. Readers – and there are some 50,000 of them now – are fast to voice opinion, and the more we tell them where to go and what to see, the bigger the response. Finding interesting destinations, innovative products, creative talents and clever individuals will always be the starting point for us, coupled with suggestions of initiatives that could add a new dimension to life in the Algarve for people who have made this special place their own.
This issue has a real flavour of Christmas and that means food and drink, alongside seasonal entertainment and yes, gifts galore. Enjoy it, enjoy the month, and enjoy thinking ahead to 2025.
Our thanks, as always, to our writers, our photographers, our designers, our distributors, and our advertisers who reach out to you, our readers, with their individual messages. You all make our life a joy.
Ange Boutik in São Brás remains a favourite shopping experience for those looking for something a little different and a lot special for their homes. For Christmas, there are always wonderful fragrance collections from the house of Essências de Portugal. This Vanilla flower diffuser is a must have. angeboutik.com
The festive season. And our December issue. Beautifully tied up to bring you the best ever reads
GIFTED
Ready to decorate? It doesn’t have to be red and green and sparkling, you know. Martina has some great starring numbers with sheen and shimmer... €12 to €75. And you’ll find more - woolly hats and scarves to keep you warm, and chain necklaces with fish pendants to keep you stylish. martina-loule.com
FRONT COVER:
The Gypsy Sun pendant by Tamara Comolli has diamonds, multi-coloured sapphires, and tsavorites, set in 18K yellow gold. €4,100 (€5,750 with the gold chain). Discover more of this hugely talented jewellery designer’s work at her boutique in V-Life at Vila Vita Park. tamaracomolli.com
Those looking to expand their gin repertoire beyond the classic ‘ice and slice’ will appreciate professional drinker Andy Clarke sharing his industry secrets in The Gin House. From quick mixes to batch drinks for parties, classic cocktails and Andy’s own personal concoctions, there is a tipple for every palate. Published by Quadrille, €15.70, at Worten.pt
Each Opala Daisy cushion is handmade by local artisans from a soft and opulent 100% cotton velvet. 45x45cm, they are made to order in Portugal. €95. opalahome.com
COMPORTA
Loved for its landscape, for its influx of famous names, and for its special fragrance collection from Comporta Perfumes. This one, Sela, for him and for her, is by perfumer Chris Maurice, and has a heart of Bulgarian rose, Indian jasmine sambac, Indian cypriol, patchouly from Singapore, leather, civet and amber with base notes of musk, benzoin and Australian sandalwood. €225. comportaperfumes.com
One to bag. And it’s a complete original. Same size, same detail, but hand carved in solid marble, €5,500. In a choice of colours. From
Books are always a much-appreciated gift, especially when they are of the coffee table variety. There are some great editions of photographers’ works at In The Pink Fine Photo Art galley in Loulé. This one, the work of David Yarrow, is a stunner. €165. in-the-pink.com
Feet first. Footed bowl, made by hand, at Olaria Pequena at the EN125 on the Porches roundabout. The range is a delight, so it’s worth going and taking your pick.
The pottery is open Monday to Saturday, 10h00–13h00 and 15h00–17h30. Prices for the fancy footwork start at €50. olariapequena.com
Candles are the perfect gift for birthdays, anniversaries, Christmas, dinner party hosts – you name it and the Algarve Candle company has something that is right for the occasion (if you can bear to actually give it away). In addition to candles there are home fragrances, ceramic diffusers, liquid hand and body soaps. Feel a shop coming on? Go visit them on the EN125, Patã de Cima, Boliqueime. The Dalmatian candle in a hand-blown vase is €28. Algarvecandleco.com
Who would say no to a handcrafted, bespoke bag by Rosa Diniz, from big and slouchy to small and tailored, made at her atelier in the finest of leathers? This small pouch, measuring approximately 19x12x5cm, has an adjustable strap and can be worn on the shoulder or cross body. €680. rosadinizatelier.com
tavira - loulé - olhão - lagos
Delight the bibliophiles in your life… these vegan capsules are filled with curated quotes from timeless voices, printed on plantable seed paper. Each bottle offers wisdom to contemplate and seeds to cultivate beautiful wildflowers after reading! Handcrafted with love. €15. pillosophy.eu
LOVEFIZZ
The enchanting new collection from Portuguese jewellery house, Rosekey, includes earrings, necklaces, bracelets, and rings in 18k gold with diamonds, pearls, emeralds and sapphires. These earrings, €1,180, are available at Boutique dos Relógios Plus. boutiquedosrelogios.pt/pt/rosekey
A special present for your home. Take a look the House of Hommés 2025 collection, which includes amazing statement pieces that are both decorative and functional. This is the way to dress your hall! houseofhommes.com
Game time. Good old noughts and crosses. And even if you don’t play, this is a pretty good conversation piece. In black wood. 25x25x4cm, €95, from Equilibrio on the Vale do Lobo Road. equilibriointeriors.com
Alamaya in Almancil has just taken delivery of some wonderful new pieces from Colombia. Time to treat yourself. alamayadeco.com
Limited-edition candles by Baobab, which draws its inspiration from Africa for the remarkable design of its collection of interior fragrances and candles, where glass blowing, engraving and painting come together to create treasured possessions. See the collection at Dunas in Almancil. dunas-living.com
In the nick of time
THIS
IS PICOS DE EUROPA, PART 2, AS NICK ROBINSON, WITH GREAT SPIRIT, DETERMINATION
BUT AN
ACHING KNEE CONTINUED HIS JOURNEY WITH THE CREW OF CHARLIE PERRIN ’ S DRIFT ADVENTURES IN THE MOUNTAINS
LAST MONTH, I recounted our first hiking day in the Picos de Europa and as I woke up stiff and sore on day two, I glanced out the window. Light came late in these mountain-bordered valleys and my glance became a long, long gaze as I marvelled at the light touching the craggy peaks. Tendrils of clouds draped their clothlike coverings over the landscape. It was time to head out again, pathetic knee pain or not, I wasn’t going to sit inside while the others hiked up secret valley gorges.
Breakfast was a jovial affair and a few rich coffees later we were slipping through the passes on our way to a quaint little hamlet called Tielve. Now Tielve was the setting for a little bit of drama…
Everything was going sweetly as we eased out of the car and started walking up a radically steep and slippery concrete road. As my mission on the trip was to capture it all on video for the Algarve Addicts YouTube channel, I dutifully hauled out the drone. She flew off with her usual alacrity, and excited by the stunning view I opted for a risky sidewards fly-by of the village with towering peaks in the background. “Man, this shot was going to really work for the video”, I thought.
However, flying sideways in the drone means two things: One: you can’t see where you’re going. Two: the drone I have only has front and back sensors not side sensors. WHACK! The remote screen went all green and blurry as my little drone hit a large tree and rolled down to the ground below and stopped. Oops.
The third challenge I faced was that there was zero internet connectivity in this valley and I only had a bearing on its last position. Normally, these things have a ‘find my drone’ feature and it can pinpoint
The remote screen went all green and blurry as my little drone hit a large tree and rolled down to the ground below and stopped.
precisely where it is on a map. Not today.
The fourth challenge was after walking straight up this near vertical hillside, my knee was acting up from yesterday. I gingerly looked around aimlessly and after 20 minutes I urged Charlie and the Drift Adventures team to head on without me. I’d find the drone and drive the car around to meet them at the halfway point. Good plan!
They left, and peace and quiet descended on me. I really loved this place and just sat and absorbed everything. Cows munched on grass nearby; the clouds moved high overhead and it was warm.
Eventually, I managed to find the drone. Sadly, it was unserviceable but I headed to the meeting point along a mindblowing valley road and grabbed a coffee, setting up for some gorgeous time lapse videos. I met the crew in Sotres, the halfway point, for a long tasty lunch. The next day it poured with rain and I managed to find a physiotherapist who advised me not to walk for a week. “But that’s what I’m here for… walking!” I exclaimed. She advised me that I would do permanent damage if I kept on. I accepted her opinion and headed out to join the others. Luckily, there was a cable car running through the mountain beside their route. I took it and joined them for lunch in Bulnes. We transferred to a new hotel on the eastern side of the mountain range later that day and explored our new village, Potes. It was delightful, and a few drinks and a fantastic meal later we were all ready for bed.
The following day, the ride through the clouds in the ‘funicular’ to Fuente Dé was spectacular. The view from the top was spectacular. And the 2km stroll along the flat bits with the crew was spectacular, too. I didn’t mind that I hadn’t been able to walk all the routes, I just loved experiencing this incredible region.
Get away now
THE WEEKS LEADING UP TO CHRISTMAS ARE FILLED WITH FESTIVE GET-TOGETHERS, FRANTIC SHOPPING AND, YES, A FAIR BIT OF STRESS. SO WHY NOT ESCAPE FOR A FEW DAYS BEFORE THE RUSH?
Words: SANDRA GATO
THE SO-CALLED ‘most wonderful time of the year’ seems to get underway earlier and earlier. With street decorations up and lit in midNovember, markets selling seasonal products busy in October, and the shopping centres spilling over with christmassy stuff in September, the pressure is on! The holiday season is beautiful, but rarely peaceful due to all the tasks we take on in order to make it perfect.
So, this year our gift to you is a simple suggestion: head off to one of these calm little hideaways now for a few days ahead of panic-station time. You’ll go home relaxed and composed, and ready to face all the inevitable turmoil. Or, brave your way through to year end, and take time out to recover after the 31st. Our hand-picked selection of properties is not about the ultimate in luxury... it is rather about the effect that true comfort and wonderful surroundings will deliver.
SOAKING IT UP
Grande Hotel Thermas
São Pedro do Sul
São Pedro do Sul, just half an hour from Viseu, has been known for many years for the healing power of its spring waters. Since 1919, Grande Hotel Thermas has welcomed anyone who needed a special place to stay while undertaking a week or two of daily water treatments. But, although the local termas are much used today for addressing specific health issues, the hotel was recently remodelled, retaining its main buildings but extending the concept to include all the facilities that we appreciate.
Surrounded by beautiful mountains – from where the therapeutic waters come – and located next to the Vouga river, the setting is both stunning and welcoming. But what really sets this hotel apart is, in fact, its spa –
Previous page: Grande
believe me when I say that after a morning or afternoon enjoying the facilities, you’re ready to face all the forthcoming festive demands with a relaxed body and mind, and a smile on your lips.
You can book one of the many available treatments (several kinds of massage, hydrating facials, etc) but even if you decide just to enjoy the spa facilities you’re in for a treat.
The focal point is on the big heated pool that runs both indoors and outdoors, with numerous water jets aimed at different parts of the body. There are also many jacuzzis and two other unmissable features: the underground river and the relaxing pool. The first one is a path to walk, with water up to the waist, to experience climate changes: a rainstorm – and it pours down on you – or a light rain in the jungle to name just two. It is very entertaining but also soothing for body and soul.
The relaxing pool is an absolute must for those who enjoy meditation (or just being quiet for a while): the idea is to float – helped by the simple devices provided – while watching a projected waterfall and listening to relaxing music. If the weather allows, end the day in one of the cosy ‘nests’ (preferably with a drink in your hand) that were built next to the outside pool and allow amazing river views. grandehotelthermas.pt
BY THE VINEYARDS
Quinta da Centieira Santarém
Just a 30-minute drive from Lisbon is Quinta da Centieira, a wine-producing farm that can be r ented for families or groups. A traditional house, built and decorated in ‘Ribatejano’ style, it has five bedrooms, three big living rooms with fireplaces, a barbecue area, tennis court, exterior pool (with protection for children) and, of course, vineyards and quality wines nearby.
Quinta da Centieira is a good choice to escape with a group of fun friends who like to cook (altough there are incredible restaurants in the area) and go for walks before dinner while a roaring fire awaits your return.
quintadacentieira.pt
ZEN & THE VILLAGE
In Bulla, Country and Wellness
Seixo do Côa, Sabugal
In Bulla means ‘inside the bubble’ in Latin and sometimes that is exactly what we need – to feel detached from the real world for a couple of days. Located in the heart of the rural interior of Portugal, this really is a destination to get away from it all. Seixo do Côa is a tiny village where you wake up listening to birds and all the sounds of nature that you only notice when you have left the city behind you. Here, the idea was to keep the rural feeling but create a modern vibe, with well-chosen architectural options that maintain the village atmosphere but do it stylishly.
In Bulla has eight units, all different in size and form but following the same vision. In fact, they are small houses, rebuilt from ancient stone village dwellings. If in need to have your morning coffee under a fig tree, book number 8, the one with the small adorable garden. A delightful detail is that when you check-in, you’re asked what you want for breakfast, and the next morning – at the time you have previously chosen – it is delivered to you in a basket, at the doorstep of your villa.
If all this back-to-basics rural comfort still isn’t enough to totally relax you, In Bulla also has a spa, where one can laze in the jacuzzi facing the green hills (it is easy to understand why some yoga and wellness retreats take place here).
It is not far from Sabugal, where there are some good traditional restaurants where you can taste the local delicacies, such as Serra da Estrela cheese, and lamb cooked in the oven – there is a booklet with recommendations inside each property. Inbulla.pt
Hotel Thermas São Pedro do Sul. This page: In Bulla, Sabugal; Opposite page, main picture: The Vagar, Belmonte; centre: In Bulla; below: Quinta da Centieira, Santarém
MOUNTAIN HIGH
The Vagar Countryhouse Belmonte
This lovely country house is nestled in Serra da Esperança, close to Belmonte, and not very far from important Beira interior towns like Covilhã and Guarda.
Enter TheVagar (vagar means ‘slowly’ in Portuguese) and as soon as you pass through the big gate that leads up to the house and its 245 hectares of land, the pace really starts to slow down. Before you get to your suite – there are only six, all with inspiring names: Hope, Balance, Peace, Light, Simplicity and Essence, and furnished in soft neutral materials – you are greeted with a warm smile (gentleness must be a requirement to work here), and also presented with a slice of homemade cake.
The air is pure, thanks to the proximity with Serra da Estrela. Relaxing out-of-the-box activities is another plus. Claiming to have a “new concept of slow down hospitality”, they invite you to take time to enjoy the fire pit at the bathtubs (filled with ice if you’re brave enough!) while gazing over the moutains. Take a moment to breathe (or meditate or pray) in the small house provided for that, or for something more radical, walk the barefoot sensory path to have all your senses stimulated.
Everyone in need to relearn how to live ‘devagar’ and reconnect with the elements must head north to this unique county house in the middle of the mountains.
TheVagar.pt
The Algarve... the buying choices
EONCE AN AREA HAS GRABBED EXPAT ATTENTION AND ATTRACTED A GROWING NUMBER OF BUYERS, PRICES GO UP AS WILL DEMAND. BUT CHOOSING WHAT IS NOW A LESSER KNOWN REGION CAN HAVE REAL BENEFITS, ESPECIALLY IF YOU’RE SEEKING A LIFE OUTSIDE THE EXPAT BUBBLE, SAYS ROB DOES
VERY NOW AND THEN, home buyers ask the illustrious question on social media about where in the Algarve to buy their new home. As a result, hordes of foreigners mention that they enjoy living in Lagos, Tavira, Lagoa, Ferragudo, Messines, São Brás, Olhão, Portimão, as well as the elegant resorts of Vale do Lobo and Quinta do Lago. All cities are mentioned and the final take away is as useless as throwing a dart on the map of the Algarve…
Of course everybody is different and before deciding on an area, you need to feel the atmosphere. But there are also objective numbers that can help decide which areas are the best choices right now and beyond.
The Algarve is a relatively compact area, so all amenities – from deserted islands to Michelinstarred restaurants – are tops an hour away by car; the whole area is your backyard. But house prices vary significantly. Birds of a feather flock together, so locations popular with expats are in high demand. But for a more authentic Portuguese experience, you might want to choose a typical working town.
The least expensive houses and apartments can be found in two municipalities in the Algarve with housing prices below the national median. These are Alcoutim (€750 per m²) and Monchique (€2,200 per m²), both located in the interior of the Algarve, further away from the oceanside.
Monchique is ideal for those looking for a more relaxed lifestyle, away from the stress of everyday life. Properties with lovely mountain views are actually quite affordable there. And the third most affordable municipality when it comes to property in the Algarve is São Brás de Alportel, with prices at around €2,400 per m².
If you are looking for an upcoming area, you might
Buying a house in a popular tourist area could in the long term be a better investment because of the higher rental opportunities.
also want to consider Mértola. Although this quiet, charming, medieval town is officially in the Alentejo, the Algarve is never far away and the average house price here will come in at around €1,000 per m².
The areas we are talking about, and the associated property costs, are very different to those in the most sought after areas; houses in Loulé, for example, go for a median of €3.900 per m².
The term Golden Triangle is there for a reason... The municipality of Loulé offers a well-developed infrastructure, beaches, tennis schools, golf courses, shopping centres, churches, casinos, choice restaurants and much more.
Lagos is also popular, with an average house price of €3,700 per m². There is something for everyone here; a picturesque old town, a beautiful marina and miles of sandy beaches as well as beautiful bays in the postcard-worthy rock formations.
To make a definite decision on the area, you might also want to include tourism in your equation. After all, many property owners will use their second home as a source of additional income by renting out to tourists.
Buying a house in a popular tourist destination might be more expensive but it could in the long term be a better investment because of the higher rental opportunities. Looking at the average earnings with Airbnb, the most profitable Airbnb markets are Loulé, Portimão and Carvoeiro. Less profitable are towns like Olhão, Faro and Tavira.
Whether you want your new life under the sun to be filled with sea view, city life or nature, the Algarve has something for everyone! With so many amazing places to choose from, deciding where to buy your home in this region can be a difficult decision. The good news is that no matter where you end up, all areas are sure choices that will guarantee you a sunny and relaxed life style!
“Gotta Have Faith” by Dom Pattinson Original Painting - 140cm x 140cm
IN A BUILDING THAT TIME NEARLY FORGOT, FUN AND CULTURE UNITE IN A VIBRANT KALEIDOSCOPE OF YESTERDAY, TODAY AND TOMORROW. THIS IS OLH Ã O ’ S REP Ú BLICA 14 CULTURAL ASSOCIATION... AND IT ROCKS
Words: DEBBIE REYNOLDS
Photography: GARRETT WALSH
IT’S A FRESH autumn night in Olhão and there’s a buzz going on at number 14 Avenida da Republica, a restored 19th century building that was once home to a wealthy Spanish family. They would probably be surprised to find a 100-strong multinational audience in their ballroom cheering loudly for a Nigerian-born American singer.
IO is on stage with fellow American musician, acclaimed guitarist Jean-Francis Varre, and the audience is lapping up their blend of soul, jazz and pop including songs by Michael Jackson, Lauryn Hill, Sergio Mendes, The Temptations and Tracy Chapman.
I’m disappointed when the hour-long concert finishes, but then am promised that I can return any Saturday to experience more music, from jazz and blues, to electronic, traditional and bossa nova.
A special find
Discovering República 14 has opened up a whole new world of art and culture in the heart of one of my favourite towns in the Algarve. Here I can
OLH Ã O ’ S TREASURE
learn Portuguese, sing a capella, dance, do yoga, Pilates or capoeira, play an instrument, browse fine art, shop at an organic market, meet a friend for an evening snack at the café bar or just curl up in cosy corner with a coffee. And then there’s the Saturday night concerts.
Maria João Cabrita and Fernando Júdice are two of the people who make all of this happen. President and vice-president, respectively, of the association’s Board, they are the pulse of this vibrant community, which first opened its doors in 2017.
But, first, the history of this beautiful 19th century building as explained by Fernando Cabrita, who humbly describes himself as: “just an old man, who has lived in Olhão my whole life”.
Senhor Cabrita is also a lawyer, poet and author and, in this case, an honorary historian. “Some people think the Recreativa house belonged to the Conde
(Earl) of Alte, but the old stories of Olhão suggest it was built in the late 1800s by a wealthy Spanish man, Pantoja Soares, who lived there with his wife and two sons,” says Fernando. “Sadly, the oldest son, Manuel, was killed by gun shot in Lisbon in 1919 and the youngest son, Soarinhos, was also killed by gunshot in Faro a few years later.”
While it seems Manuel’s death was a grievous mistake, the younger son was killed by a cuckolded husband. Fernando says the people of Olhão at the time wrote a song about the unfaithful wife called Ungrateful Woman.
With no one to inherit the home after Pantoja Soares died an “old, lonely and blind man”, the building sat empty until 1933 when it became the property of the Sociedade Recreativa Olhanense, an association, says Fernando, which aimed to emulate the English gentlemen’s clubs of the time.
“It was really quite funny considering there were not that many gentlemen in Olhão,” he chuckles. “While there were some educated people, like lawyers and doctors, most of whom didn’t have much money, there were many uneducated people who ended up with a lot of money from the fishing industry”.
Exclusion in every sense
It was no wonder the townspeople nicknamed the association Recreativa Rica (rich), considering the admission process was reportedly done by white and black ball, a method of social elitism that made it difficult for new members to be accepted.
Women were only allowed to enter the building during Carnival and other special occasions.
The status quo remained until the revolution in 1974, when, says Fernando, that elite kind of association was suddenly not very popular. “There were no big balls and banquets anymore, and they became lower key, even allowing the general population in to watch the outdoor cinema.”
Finally, the Sociedade Recreativa closed, and the house was left to its own devices. It began to decay, and there was talk of knocking it down to make place for modern high-rise buildings.
“There was a lot of gossip about that, but it was never the intention,” says Maria João. “By then it was privately owned by a family trust, who had no idea what to do with it.”
And then the change
Unwittingly, a group of artists known as the Olhão Painters, got the ball rolling when
they asked if they could use the building for an exhibition.
“You must understand,” says Fernando Júdice, “that the building was completely ruined, with no electricity or water, but the exhibition went ahead, and it was a huge success.”
The seed was planted for what the building could become and there were suggestions that it would be a great venue for a cultural association, but this time for all the people, not just a select few.
Being an esteemed musician who has played in various bands in Portugal through the years, Fernando was a perfect founding member for the association, along with Maria João, who started her career as a photographer, then studied law before running her family company.
The association was formed on 9 October 2017, and on 9 December República 14 hosted its first activity, a Christmas market, with live music.
“The building was still a mess, and we had no furniture, but we decided to just do it and see if it could work,” says Maria João. “A lot of people came to sell and to buy and everyone loved it.”
In January 2018 they started offering Portuguese lesson for foreigners (for which
there was a great demand), and classes, such as yoga and meditation. “Then came the idea of opening the café bar so that people could have somewhere central to enjoy a drink and a snack,” says Maria João.
All the time, the Board knew that the building had to be restored, so they decided to raise money through membership fees, which currently stand at just €36 a year. “Our activities also raise money, and the owners of the building are a big help with their investments,” says Fernando.
Deciding to host a three-day official opening party in April 2018, the Board was encouraged by the attendance and by how much people enjoyed the space. “Initially we took a big risk, but with the money we made we were able to pay for everything. It was the first time we realised that we could do this, and it could work,” says Maria João.
Currently, República 14 hosts concerts every Saturday night (at 19h00 and 21h30), except during the big music festivals in Loulé and Faro, and for the last two weeks in December.
“When we started, we had to borrow equipment, but now we have been able to buy everything we need ourselves, from chairs to sound and lighting equipment,” says Maria João.
Making an impression
They are incredibly proud of their around 1,200 members and their benefactors who have helped with projects such as replacing the floor in the exhibition/concert hall.
“We needed almost €20,000 to fix the floor, which was totally destroyed,” says Maria João. “Through generous donations from our members we raised more than half of that with the rest paid by the association. We also have volunteers who help with everything from taking care of the garden to putting out chairs for the concerts.”
There have also been donations of gorgeous antique furniture, some from Maria João’s old family home.
“Our first impulse to give this lovely old building back to the people has worked. We have elderly local people passing by who can now come inside, when before they could only watch from outside.”
She says it is also rewarding to see such a great mix of local Portuguese people and expatriates sharing the space, meeting up and making friends.
“But definitely the concerts are the most interesting and richest thing we do here,” says Fernando. “Being a musician, I know how important it is to have a space where we can go and play. And here you will definitely
hear good music, which is why people come back. There’s something for everybody from instrumental and traditional to Argentinian and Afro-American and jazz to rock.”
In summer, patrons can enjoy outdoor movies on the big screen in the courtyard and on Wednesdays from 10h00 to 14h00 there’s an organic and crafts market. On Sundays from 16h00, you can relax to the sounds of a DJ while enjoying an end-ofweekend drink.
Looking to the future, they hope to be able to make the Association “more professional”, as in being able to hire and pay staff rather than mostly relying on interns and volunteers.
“A lot of planning goes into what we do, and we are all busy with our jobs, so it does take a lot of time and energy,” says Fernando. “We get some help from the municipality, but it would be nice not to have to rely on government money – the problem with that is if it goes away, we can no longer exist.”
Their dream is to get private enterprise involved so investment and support can be ongoing. “We need committed sponsors, so that this special space can continue being a place where everyone feels at home and can help create meaningful experiences,” says Maria João.
República 14 today is the result of the vision and determination not only of the Board who have taken charge, but also of the local community who are clearly focused on regenerating the property itself and developing an on-going programme of activities
Luxury Retirement Village and
Nursing and Care Home
The tranquil village of Monte da Palhagueira in the sun-dappled Portuguese hills has elevated luxury retirement living to new heights.
A traditional development of beautiful villas, houses and apartments, Monte da Palhagueira offers luxury independent retirement living with the added reassurance of qualified medical assistance on hand should it ever be required.
Our English Nursing and Care Home offers a wide range of professional services. From convalescent and respite to full residential care with 24/7 Nursing safety. We offer tailored Person-centric holistic care: it is all about you and your needs.
Contact: Alexandre Neves mdpmanager@amesburyabbey.com
montedapalhagueira.pt
Tel.: +351 289 990 900
New years eve
AUSTA
Almancil
DRESS UP, GET ON THOSE DANCING SHOES, AND TAKE YOUR PICK OF SOME OF THE AMAZING NEW YEAR ’ S EVE CELEBRATIONS ON OFFER AT THE TOP RESTAURANTS. EXPECT FULL-ON FLAVOUR AND SERVICE WITH A VERY BIG SMILE. BUT GET YOUR BOOKING IN FAST
whatsapp 965 896 278 / eat@austa.pt
A special and adventurous tasting menu of around seven courses will celebrate the best of the season’s ingredients identified from small and independent producers across Portugal and Spain.
Head Chef David Barata has some real treats in store using many of the best winter ingredients, including wild guinea fowl, foraged mushrooms from Monchique, and line-caught fish from our Atlantic coast.
€260pp plus optional low intervention, natural and organic wine pairing.
FORTALEZA DA LUZ
Praia da Luz
282 789926 / info@fortalezadaluz.com
Authentic Portuguese flavours with a brilliantly creative twist from the restaurant that was named ‘Best of the Best’ for 2024 by TripAdvisor, placing it in the top 1% of reviewed dining destinations, worldwide!
The New Year’s Eve seven-course gala menu includes:
Broccoli involtini stuffed with octopus, prawn sauce and rose perfume
Smoked duck with grapes in passion fruit sauce, roast figs with gorgonzola cheese, and rocket salad with nori seaweed
Fresh cod loin wrapped in peas with wasabi, chorizo risotto and asparagus tempura
Wagyu beef, truffle puree, heart of palm vinaigrette, plantain chips and mustard sauce
Fried brownie filled with homemade vanilla ice cream, strawberry flambé and amarenata whipped cream or homemade almond and fig ice cream
Owner Luc St John Webb promises great tastes, live music, dancing, and lots of mischievous nonsense as the clock strikes midnight.
€180pp, which includes drinks and a bottle of bubbly for two.
Above: Fortaleza in Praia da Luz promises some extraordinary dishes. Right: dine and wine in style at austa in Amancil
One of the most-loved luxury restaurants in the Algarve will be serving a spectacular menu in its intimate winter dining room, where the walls are dressed with artworks by chef Henrique Leis.
The eight-course tasting menu will be followed by a spectacular fireworks display at midnight on the terrace, which has views from Faro to Vilamoura.
Dishes of the night include:
Crispy sphere with carabineiro, beetroot macaroon and Quail breast Bluefin tuna, avocado and yellow tail tartare with Japanese dressing
Potato galette with Oscietra caviar Celeriac velouté, foie gras and truffle ravioli
Stuffed sea bass fillet, beurre blanc with lemon
Black Forest venison tenderloin with poivrade sauce
Algarvian citrus fruits panaché
Petit fours €140pp excluding beverages
PINE CLIFFS
Praia da Falesia, Albufeira
289 500 300 / pinecliffs.com
Maré at Pine Cliffs will be the stage for a great New Year celebration in an exclusive event for adults. Dinner begins with a welcome cocktail served on the upper deck, and soft shell crab tempura and avocado corneto with citrus fruits. Then, at the entrance station, expect:
A selection of seafood (ceviches, lobster, stuffed crab, oysters, bellinis, oscietras and smoked salmon), salads, cheeses and national charcuterie
And at the table on the lower floor: Hot starters of fried cuttlefish, guillo-style prawns, seafood with bolhão duck and mushrooms with honey and balsamic
And for the main course, a choice of sea bass fillet, grilled tiger prawns, sirloin steak or grilled beetroot
For dessert, the chef suggests: Abade de Priscos Pudding, Tiramisu and Banana Split. From 2am, there will be live entertainment €295 pp
Other restaurants on the resort will offer their own menus.
VILA VITA PARC
Porches
282 310 100 / fb@vilavitaparc.com
Welcome cocktails in the Oasis Bar
Champagne for a midnight toast Fireworks at the resort gardens
NEW YEAR’S EVE GRAND GALA
Hollywoodparc themed entertainment
Menu of six moments
€375pp
ATLÂNTICO RESTAURANT
Menu of five moments €290pp
OCEAN RESTAURANT
Menu of 12 moments with wine pairing €590pp
ANANTARA
Vilamoura
289 317 000
rsv.vilamoura@anantara-hotels.com
The Great Gatsby Party should be spellbinding, offering a vast menu that covers all tastes – and all ages – and includes salads, soups and sushi – and that’s just for starters!
There are live stations serving: Roasted suckling pig, Bairrada pepper sauce, Algarve orange
Roasted beef, Yorkshire pudding, Port wine sauce
Seafood bar (boiled shrimps, oysters, mussels, clams, crab claws)
Seafood cataplana
And the hot buffet choices that includes:
Salmon fillet en croûte with spinach
Slow-roasted pork cheeks
Veal scallops witht jus and mushrooms
Cauliflower steak, tofu and vegetable ragoût
Jewelled rice pilaf
The dessert table is another treat, and there are special menus for children with all their favourites.
€280pp with Anantara drinks selection
€140 for children aged 3 to 12.
Main picture: the magical touch of Henriques Leis. Opposite page left: Fireworks at midnight at Pine Cliffs. Hollywood glamour at Vila Vita Parc. This page below: Anantara in Vilamoura sets the style for a great night
THE CONRAD ALGARVE
Quinta do Lago
289 350 700
experiences.algarve@conradhotels.com
The theme is ‘A Night at the Palace’ and it promises to be one of unparalleled luxury and festivity in the Conrad Algarve Ballroom. An unforgettable night in the exquisitely decorated venue, inspired by the grandeur of historic palace gardens. Indulge in a culinary journey with a lavish buffet, paired with a diverse wine selection, whilst enjoying live entertainment.
Welcome the New Year with a bottle of Laurent Perrier Champagne, per couple, to enjoy with the fireworks.
There is a starter dish of lobster tartare, cream of awase fermented miso, kiwi gel and sturgeon caviar
Followed by scallops in a broth of scallop beard and vermouth, with
black truffle
Then venison Wellington, filled with wild mushrooms and foie gras
And a dessert of honey sourdough cake, mascarpone mousse, blackcurrant compote served with Champagne
In addition, and there to meet particular requests, is a plant-based menu of: Turnip cooked on sea salt, cream of awase fermented miso, Kiwi gel
Extraction of celery in textures, black truffle tuber melanosporum
Red kuri squash slowly roasted in olive oil, vegetable sauce, herbal oil, tuber melanosporum
Creamy vanilla tapioca pearls, tapioca crisp and blackcurrant compote served with Champagne
€445pp
€356 per child (6–12 years)
If you are looking for something simple and laid back, check out regular eateries early as many will be closed on New Year’s Eve
Left:
RESTAURANTE FIGUEIRAL
Almancil
289 395 558 / info@figueiral.pt
With a focus on high-quality culinary experiences, everything crafted in the kitchens here is a blend of flavours, aromas, and textures, masterfully captivating even the most discerning palate.
Brazilian-style Picanha is one of Figueiral’s long-standing favourites but for New Year’s Eve, this is what is planned:
Cheeses buffet and regional sweet jams
Crab soup
Goat’s cheese rapped in brick pastry served with red port sauce and mixed green salad
Grouper served with Champagne sauce on a bed of spinach and pink peppercorns
Rump steak served in Brazilian style or Surf-and-Turf beef medallions, served with bearnaise sauce and gratin potato
Buffet with variety of sweets and fresh fruits
Quality wine selection, served during dinner and Champagne (one bottle per four adults), served at midnight €155pp drinks are included, and Champagne at midnight (one bottle for four)
While the Christmas feasts will be setting the stage, it’s the Wyndham’s New Year’s Eve Spectacular celebration that promises to steal the show.
As 2024 draws to a close, guests can expect to be dazzled by ‘The Grand Show,’ an amazing circus-themed extravaganza that aims to elevate the circus experience, promising unique moments from start to finish.
The party will feature an array of artistic performances during dinner, including eastern dance, majorettes, B-boys, contortion acts, juggling, and acrobatics.
Guests can also look forward to live cooking stations, a DJ
spinning tunes into the night, and an open bar, all contributing to an unforgettable evening. There will be entertainment and supervision for children aged four to 12 years.
And what about dinner? How’s this for just a sampler:
Oysters, prawns, crab, picked mussels and marinated anchovies
Favourites like grilled cod salad, suckling pig, spring rolls and prawn tempura
Monkfish cataplana, roasted veal, thai green curry and mushroom and truffle ravioli
And a seriously huge list of desserts
€350pp
Figueiral in Almancil has been serving top dishes since 1986, and is known for its meats
SEASONAL GREETINGS
DISCOVER OUR SELECTION OF ART BOOKS AT THE WINTER MARKET IN QUINTA SHOPPING ON THE 7TH OF DECEMBER
PRAÇA DA REPÚBLICA 69-75
LOULÉ | PORTUGAL
QUINTA SHOPPING LOJA 6
ALMANCIL | PORTUGAL
The other side of
Albufeira
YOU MIGHT BE SURPRISED TO FIND THAT THERE IS MUCH IN ALBUFEIRA AWAY FROM THE TOURIST ATTRACTIONS AND THE NOISE AND NIGHT LIFE OF ‘ THE STRIP’. OUT OF SEASON IS THE TIME TO DISCOVER THE LESSER KNOWN CHARMS OF THE COASTAL RESORT
Words: KAYLA MEIRINHO
THE NAME ‘Albufeira’ traces back to the Arabic term Al-Buhera, meaning ‘the lagoon’ or ‘sea castle,’ a nod to the Moorish influences that are still visible in the old town’s architecture and layout. The 1755 earthquake was a turning point, reshaping the area and paving the way for modern development. Yet Albufeira retains considerable charm with historical sites and picturesque streets. You just need to know where...
What to visit
Paderne Castle: This ancient Moorish castle lies just outside Albufeira and provides a beautiful walk with great views over the surrounding Algarve countryside. Due to its history and surroundings, it is always a great excursion for anyone interested in both nature and history.
Chapel of Nossa Senhora da Orada: This little modest chapel, close to the marina, serves as a quiet refuge, reflecting its history. This is a place of respect for locals, showing
how spiritual life was valued.
Museu Municipal de Arqueologia de Albufeira: This little, newly-renovated museum provides an intimate glimpse into the area’s history, with displays detailed in Portuguese, English, and Braille. The museum also contains interactive games that kids will have lots of fun with.
Self-Guided walking tours
Albufeira Marina: Known for its colourful buildings, the marina offers numerous restaurants and cafés and an indoor arcade with bowling; it also acts as a starting point for countless boat trips – from fishing expeditions to dolphin watching.
Old Town Albufeira: Full of small traditional shops, tiny cafés, and wonderful views along narrow, winding alleys, the old town is lively yet relaxed. In the Fisherman’s Square you will often find live music in the evenings.
Reserva Natural Caminho da Baleeira: For outdoor lovers, this coastal reserve has excellent hiking trails and cliff walks with breathtaking ocean views. It leads along a
path to Ponta da Baleeira, with vistas of the marina and surrounding coastline, perfect for photography or a peaceful retreat away from busier areas.
Art and Local Galleries
Galeria de Arte Pintor Samora Barros: In the old town, this gallery showcases works from regional artists, offering a mix of contemporary pieces with Algarvian themes. It’s a great spot to appreciate local talent and see modern takes on traditional subjects.
Centro de Artes e Ofícios
Carlos Silva e Sousa: This artisan hub offers workshops and a rotating gallery with exhibitions. Past displays have included Vanessa Barragão’s textile work, and the centre hosts workshops for visitors interested
in learning a new craft. It’s a community gem, making for a hands-on art experience.
The Art Hive Gallery: Run by local artists, this gallery features an impressive portfolio that includes handmade jewellery, decor pieces and modern abstract paintings.
Family-Friendly Outings
Adventure Mini
Golf Park: With 22 unique holes and a well-maintained course, this mini-golf park is a hit with both kids and adults.
The staff are friendly, and the activity is affordable, making it an ideal outing for families looking for light-hearted fun.
Parque de Vale Faro:
This park has a large wooden castle play area surrounded by greenery, perfect for younger children. Parents can relax on benches around the playground, and there’s a small exercise
area just outside the park. Plus, there’s a supermarket nearby for snacks.
Hot Shot Bowling & Leisure Centre: Friendly staff and a welcoming atmosphere make this bowling centre a great option for families. Their ice cream and weekend games are a big hit with kids.
Outdoor and Adventure Activities
Johnny’s Tours: Offering land-based tours across the Algarve, Johnny’s Tours specialises in customisable experiences, including those for families. Choose from wine tours, coastal trips, and historical sites as you explore hidden gems with knowledgeable guides. johnnystours.com
Dream Wave Algarve: This boat tour company offers everything from dolphinwatching to cave exploration, jet-skiing, and powerboat rides. Friendly guides share the region’s natural and cultural history. dreamwavealgarve.com
Albufeira Bike Rentals: Take a guided bike tour with Algarve Bike Holidays, which tailor routes to your skill level. Their ebikes have extended battery life, allowing for longer
Carlos Ferreira sculpture at Galeria de Arte Pintor Samora Barros
excursions along scenic back roads and trails. Experienced guides provide a well-rounded adventure, complete with GPS navigation to keep you on track. algarvebikeholidays.com
Horseback Riding with Albufeira Riding Centre: The staff at this stable take pride in their horses and offer trail rides suited to all levels. For families, group rides along coastal paths are a memorable way to experience Albufeira’s landscape from a unique vantage point. albufeiraridingcentre.com
Shopping and Souvenirs
Albufeira’s Municipal Market: A vibrant place to pick up fresh Algarvian produce, from honey and olive oil to cheeses and locally caught seafood. Take home a taste of the Algarve or to share with others as a look back on your travels.
Craft Stores in the Old Town: In the Old Town, you’ll come across a number of boutique shops specialising in Portuguese handicrafts. Look for intricately painted ceramics, cork products like bags and hats, and other authentic creations that make for meaningful souvenirs.
World In Shop: A charming store filled with one-of-a-kind home decor items that celebrate local Portuguese craftsmanship.
Portugal 100%: This shop showcases
authentic Portuguese artwork and handmade ceramics. The friendly staff are happy to share the stories behind each piece, making it a great place to discover one-of-a-kind works of art that capture the spirit of Portugal.
Pau de Pita: Located just off the main strip, Pau de Pita is a gem among Albufeira’s artisan shops. Known for its cosy and welcoming atmosphere, it specialises in handmade and hand-painted ceramics, original crockery, soaps, candles, and more. It also follows sustainable practices, using recycled packaging materials to wrap items with care.
Where to Eat
Panela Velha: This seafood haven, slightly away from the main tourist areas, offers an
DON’T MISS
Albufeira’s New Year’s Eve celebration is one of the largest in the Algarve, featuring a stunning fireworks display on the beach that lights up the coast at midnight and is often accompanied by live music.
Paderne Medieval Festival (28 December to 1 January) See page 92.
authentic Portuguese dining experience with fresh seafood options like grilled squid and clams. For a relaxed meal, Panela Velha’s covered terrace and local atmosphere make it a fantastic choice.
Taberna Vicentina: A family-owned spot with a cosy ambiance and a focus on Portuguese tapas, it is known for its pork with pickles, goat cheese toast, and locallyinspired dishes. A hidden gem with warm service and a distinct local vibe.
Staar Restaurante: For fine dining, Staar offers a chic, elegant setting and a menu featuring fresh seafood and wellcrafted dishes. It’s a great choice for special occasions.
Georgina: This spot in the old town is loved for its homemade pasta and pizza and family-friendly atmosphere. The garlicy cheesy bread is a hit.
Georgina Café: A must for anyone with a sweet tooth, there are delicious milkshakes, pancakes, crepes, smoothie bowls, and more – a perfect spot to indulge and start the day on a sweet note.
Al-Gharb Coffee Roasters: With a cosy play corner for kids, this café is a perfect spot for parents to unwind. The warm atmosphere, combined with quality coffee, great cakes and sandwiches and multi versions of eggs benedict is a treat.
Top left, clockwise: Igreja de Sant’Ana in the Old Town; the Marina, a blaze of colour from boats and buildings alike; the small but delightful Museu Municipal de Arqueologia, which tells the story of the town’s history; fireworks on New Year’s Eve, not to be missed
L’atelier Gourmet, Loulé
DAVID CAMPUS AND EMMA OF AUSTA IN ALMANCIL HAVE A NEW SATURDAY MORNING ROUTINE, AWAY FROM THE COAST AND IN THE BACK STREETS OF LOULÉ, THE BUSTLING MARKET TOWN THAT RETAINS ITS CHARM, RELISHES ITS HISTORY, AND WELCOMES A REAL FOLLOWING
AVISIT TO Loulé market on a Saturday morning starts with a velvety espresso at Bean 17. Then we stroll along cobbled streets of the old town, lips beginning to smack as we approach L’atelier Gourmet, one of the Algarve’s best French patisseries.
Opened in 2021 by Liliana Varlea and Stéphane da Costa, it’s clear from the burgeoning queue already that the couple’s passion for baking and their unique approach to pastry-making have struck a chord with both locals and visitors.
We join it, straining our necks while panicking to check that there’s plenty of choice left in the counter full of goodies. Phew. We can breathe, as the moment we step inside we’re greeted by the intoxicating smells of freshly baked croissants, golden brioches, and the rich sweetness of chocolate fondant. The display is filled with
Liliana’s delicate creations – from mini tarteletes, bursting with fresh fruit, to indulgent éclairs filled with an abundance of cream.
Our choice this morning? The simple croissant. Always the test of a good patisserie for their flaky lamination, perfectly crispy and soft, warm inside. Liliana’s have become a signature item for L’atelier Gourmet. I read that it takes Liliana five hours to make ten croissants and that every day the couple make 100 plain ones and 50 with chocolate.
Emma tucks into a vanilla custard and chocolate filled Pain Suisse; a rich, gooey indulgence that’s hard to resist. She doesn’t share.
The couple, who moved to the Algarve from Paris, both have Portuguese roots and had long dreamed of returning to Portugal to raise their children in a quieter, more balanced environment.
They chose Loulé for its charm that we all know and love, its vibrant yet relaxed community,
FOOD
Breads and patisserie that is simply the best you will find here. DECOR
Sweet and simple, seating for 30
and its proximity to the stunning Algarve coastline.
In L’atelier Gourmet they have created a place where French pastry techniques meet the freshness of local ingredients, many of which are sourced from the market just a few metres away. The menu is always changing, depending on what’s available and what inspires them.
While Liliana runs the patisserie side of things, Stéphane handles the bakery, crafting traditional French breads, baguettes, and more. The butter and chocolate used in their pastries come directly from France, ensuring the best possible flavours, while the rest of their ingredients are sourced from local Portuguese producers. It’s a blend of French tradition and Portuguese freshness that results in something truly unique, a perfect balance.
We pop two perfectly formed rustic baguettes in our tote bag to take home for lunch and, clutching our patisserie prizes, saunter to sit on the steps of the market and complete the ritual: soaking in the lively atmosphere of the market while tucking into our pastries, still warm from the oven.
L’atelier Gourmet is open Tuesday to Saturday, 08h30–14h00, (on Fridays till 13h00).
You don’t need to give it a thought.
For special orders, including birthday and anniversary cakes, contact them via social media.
CASA 1923
The intersection of tradition and innovation
JUST OCCASIONALLY, YOU COME ACROSS AN EXAMPLE OF TRUE DESIGN PASSION, AND NOWHERE DOES IT TELL MORE SPECIAL A STORY THAN IN ARCHITECTURE THAT BRINGS DECADES TOGETHER TO INTRODUCE A MODERN-DAY INTERPRETATION
Words: EMMA CAMPUS
LAST ISSUE, our editor met Chris and Angie, founders of Faro’s The Modernist Hotel and last month’s annual Modernist Weekend. A three-day event here in the Algarve where architecture lovers from all over the world have the chance to tour private homes and public spaces alike in the city.They see modernist buildings from the 1950s and 60s, visit exhibitions and engage with local architects and designers about the evolving architectural landscape in our region’s capital.
Inspired by her findings, I decided to delve deeper to find a hidden gem where our readers could continue to immerse themselves in true Design Escapes surrounded by awardwinning local architecture, history and heritage.
It was through Chris and Angie’s hotel collaboration with PAr (Plataforma de Arquitetura) and its founder Vânia Brito Fernandes that I found her own, newly-opened project, Casa 1923. An architecture studio and guesthouse in Faro that acts as a living testament and tribute to the Art Noveau movement, it is a rare and precious find. Here, architecture, history and creativity converge, inviting enthusiastic visitors to experience a unique blend of the past and present in the Algarve.
Vânia Brito Fernandes: from architect to curator of space
Vânia’s journey into the world of architecture has been one of both local pride and international influence. A graduate in Architecture from Lisbon University Lusíada (2008) and a former collaborator at the renowned Aires Mateus e Associados, she has always been drawn to the potential of architecture to connect people with their environment and history.
In 2009, Vânia co-founded PAr Plataforma de Arquitetura, her studio, which is now known for its innovative reinterpretations of local vernacular architecture. Her design philosophy centres on merging contemporary approaches with traditional materials, focusing on the sustainable and socially conscious development of spaces. This ethos is evident in her creation of design-media applauded Casa Modesta, a small guesthouse that she designed with her brother Carlos (now the host of the house) on the Ria Formosa near Fuseta, as well as projects across the Algarve, Lisbon and Alentejo.
Casa 1923: A Home with History
Back at Vânia’s house, she shows me how she has cleverly linked public and private areas of her guesthouse together behind the decorative façade that acts as a rare example of Art Nouveau architecture in Faro, a style that blossomed in the early 20th century but is now seldom seen in the region. Her ambition was to restore and extend the existing structure, carefully conserving
Faro is home to some amazing examples of Art Deco Modernist architecture, and also to harder-to-find Art Nouveau buildings that carry much original detailing that deserves attention
It takes a rare talent to develop historic buildings, retaining their special features while creating homes and workplaces for today
its architectural integrity while adapting it to contemporary needs. It’s clear that her careful restoration of the house respects the original design elements of the Art Nouveau style as we pass through fluid, organic lines, geometric tilework, noticing the use of wood, stone, and metal in the structural and decorative elements. She tells me that during the restoration they peeled back three layers of paint to reveal the original wall and window frame colours that, now restored, bathe the space in coloured light.
It’s clear her aim was not to merely preserve the past, but to breathe new life into it, merging historical authenticity with modern functionality. “Casa 1923 is not a simple restoration project. It’s a dialogue between the past and the present, between tradition and innovation,” she says. “We’re bringing history into the future, creating a space that can be lived in and appreciated by both architecture enthusiasts and casual visitors who want to explore the city.”
The architecture: a hybrid of past and present
The house is designed as a hybrid, blending elements of residential comfort with the professional spaces of the PAr Architecture studio. Guests have private access but there is a fluid interaction between work and leisure. The building’s central corridor, the core of the original design, remains intact, acting as the backbone of the home, connecting to just four private rooms and studios while maintaining the layout’s original sense of flow.
The guesthouse isn’t just for short stays, either. As a
PORTUGAL
page-turners
ON THE SHELF? NO, YOU WANT THOSE BOOKS OUT AND ON DISPLAY, FOR YOUR READING PLEASURE. AND IF YOU ’ RE STUCK FOR GIFT IDEAS THIS HOLIDAY SEASON, WE’VE FOUND BOOKS DESERVING OF A PLACE UNDER THE TREE, ALONG WITH SOME MUST-HAVE TRAVEL GUIDE STOCKING FILLERS
Words: SALLY DIXON
COFFEE TABLE books were once the ultimate statement pieces in home decor, bringing a sense of style and sophistication to any living space.
In the days before digital streaming and endless online content, these beautiful, oversized books served as both art and conversation starters, showcasing stunning photography, curated essays, and topics as diverse as travel, fashion, gastronomy, art, and architecture. Often taking pride of place in living rooms, on side tables, kitchen shelves, and bedside tables, more than just decorative additions, they reflected the interests and tastes of their owners, giving guests a glimpse into personal passions and current cultural trends.
Having a stack of carefully curated coffee table books was a way to express individuality, inviting others to flip through pages of inspiration and creativity. Whether they were even read by their owner was another matter. The less creative amongst us would buy boxes of pre-packed coffee table books on eBay to make ourselves look a lot more cultured than we really were.
Then minimalist and Scandi interiors came back into fashion, alongside the newly-created Japandi style, and all those opulent coffee table books were shuffled away into cupboards and onto bookshelves.
Well, cue a return to splendour! Coffee table books are once again in demand. In an increasingly digital world, these tactile, visually stunning books offer a refreshing return to the art of high-end printed media. And they make for a thoughtful gift when you’re stuck for ideas. Not content with coffee table books alone, we decided to round up some of the best books featuring Portugal for a range of gifting budgets.
PATTERNS OF PORTUGAL: A JOURNEY THROUGH COLOURS, HISTORY, TILES, AND ARCHITECTURE
Christine Chitnis / Clarkson Potter, €28.67
The beauty of Portugal as seen through the eyes of writer and photographer Christine Chitnis. Embark on a vivid journey through the country with over 200 captivating photographs that showcase its unmatched beauty and timeless charm. Celebrating the rich colours and intricate patterns that grace our landscapes – from the serene countryside and sunlit coastlines to bustling cities and quaint villages. Get immersed in the artistry of the azulejos, Portugal’s iconic ceramic tiles; the intricate embroidery of traditional lavradeira garments; the bold flavours of Portuguese cuisine; and more.
COMPORTA BLISS
Carlos Souza and Charlene Shorto de Ganay / Assouline, €105
As the longtime global ambassador for Valentino, an editor-at-large for Architectural Digest, and a photographer whose career was kick-started by Andy Warhol, you can imagine Carlos Souza knows all there is to know about style. Together with his former wife, Charlene Shorto de Ganay, they give an inside look into Comporta, the chic, off-the-beaten-path escape just over an hour south of Lisbon. Often likened to the Saint-Tropez of Brigitte Bardot’s heyday, Comporta is an ideal getaway for those seeking a slower pace and a casual bohemian vibe. This hidden gem has become a favourite among high-profile figures; even Madonna has
THE TASTE OF PORTUGAL
Edite Vieira / Grub Street Publishing, €21.78
shared photos at the local beaches and riding horseback through Carvalhal’s dunes. Comporta’s landscape is a breathtaking blend: miles of pristine beaches, lush rice paddies, and fragrant pine forests, providing an idyllic backdrop for its distinct architectural style. Rustic cabanas and thatched-roof huts, typical of Comporta’s laid-back ethos, blur the boundary between indoors and out, inspiring architects and designers to create spaces that harmonise with the natural beauty. The region’s characteristic cobalt blue sweeps from the skies and sea to the walls, shutters, and artful design accents that bring a bold yet picturesque charm to the homes celebrated within these pages.
Originally born in Portugal, author Edite Vieira moved to London where she worked with the BBC as a radio journalist and programme announcer. Winner of a Gourmand World Cookbook Award you can guarantee she knows a thing or two about food.
In this updated edition of her authoritative and captivating book, Edite explores the rich culinary heritage of Portugal, spanning from medieval times to the present. Weaving history, anecdotes, and an array of delicious recipes into a vibrant narrative. From rustic, hearty peasant dishes to intricate celebratory feasts, the book highlights ingredients that define Portuguese cuisine: the versatile salt cod (bacalhau), cumin and oranges recalling Portugal’s seafaring legacy, and green coriander as a key herb. Not forgetting the rich tradition of pork dishes. Fresh pork, ham (presunto), spicy red pepper sausages (chouriços), and black pudding (morcela) take centre stage.
TAKE THE SLOW ROAD: SPAIN AND PORTUGAL
Martin Dorey / Conway Publishing, €25.50
Have van will travel. Writer, surfer, and serial camper van owner Martin Dorey will make you wish you owned a camper van of your own with this quirky collection of photos, travel stories, and handy maps. Discover the ultimate road trip guide for camper van and motorhome adventures through Spain and Portugal! This book invites you to slow down, soak up the sights, and savour every turn as you explore stunning mountains, coastlines, and winding roads. Inside, you’ll find handpicked routes that capture the best of Spain and Portugal, from the most picturesque mountain passes to coastal drives made for lazy cruising. Whether you’re a hiker, beach lover, culture seeker, or sun chaser, there’s a route for you. He’s also included top spots to stay, things to do, and even tips on where to rent a camper if you don’t own one. The perfect book for planning your next adventure – or just dreaming of one!
TOP 10: THE ALGARVE
DK Eye Witness Pocket Travel Guide, €12.75
Fed up with telling newbies where to go and what to do in the Algarve? Pre-order this handy little book (launching 6 March 2025) and you’ll no longer have to play tourist guide to visiting friends and family. Inside this Algarve guide, you’ll discover the top ten must-see sights and experiences, including exploring Faro’s historic Old Town, visiting the charming riverside town of Tavira, and cycling through the scenic Parque Natural da Ria Formosa. You’ll find specially curated lists covering top museums, hiking trails, beaches, wineries, local dishes, and more. Plus, there are brand new itineraries tailored for day trips, weekend getaways, or a full week of exploration. To help with navigation, the guide includes a laminated pull-out map of the Algarve, along with four full-colour area maps.
DK LISBON
DK Travel, €18.50
Coming hot off the press on January 2, 2025, this lightweight pocketbook will be your most up to date guide around the Portuguese city that draws people from all over the world. Lisbon’s charm is in its contradictions. Ancient trams rumble through streets filled with modern art installations. Centuries-old buildings are repurposed as trendy cafés and shops. Lisbon’s historic yet laid-back vibe is intoxicating. So, where do you start? With its beautiful photography, detailed hand-drawn illustrations, must-see sights, maps, and easy-to-follow itineraries, this book will be your best travel buddy. Pastel de nata anyone?
DK PORTUGAL
DK Travel Guide, €25
Newly launched in September of this year, discover Portugal’s must-see and must-do experiences with this handy travel guide. With expert-led insights and trusted travel advice, it offers a comprehensive breakdown of all the must-see sights. You’ll find stunning photographs on nearly every page, alongside hand-drawn illustrations that provide a glimpse into the architecture and neighbourhoods of Portugal. Easy-tofollow itineraries and detailed maps and walks make navigating the region super easy. Covering the whole country, including the magical islands.
PORTUGAL: THE COOKBOOK
Leandro Carreira / Phaidon Press, €49.95
If cooking is your thing, then aspiring chefs will love this gem that provides hundreds of classic and contemporary recipes from every region of the country. Renowned for its rich culinary heritage, Portugal is a prime destination for food lovers around the globe. A foodie’s delight, this cookbook features fish and seafood from the Algarve coast, robust stews from the Douro Valley, and Lisbon’s famous pastries. Chef Leandro Carreira is a highly-regarded Portuguese chef celebrated for his innovative take on Portuguese cuisine. Originally from Leiria, Portugal, he trained in some of the most prestigious kitchens in Europe and worked with acclaimed chefs, including time spent at Mugaritz in Spain, one of the world’s top restaurants. Carreira then moved to London, where he continued to refine his skills and reputation, eventually earning acclaim for his inventive yet authentic approach to Portuguese cooking.
Pairing with puds
GET TO KNOW THE MAIN RULES FOR A GOOD PAIRING! WHEN IT COMES TO DESSERTS OR SUGARY SNACKS, NOT JUST AT CHRISTMAS, BUT AT ANY TIME OF THE YEAR – THE WINE SHOULD ALWAYS BE SWEETER THAN THE DISH YOU ARE ENJOYING
Pacheca 30 Year Old
Tawny, Douro
This orange tawny is soft but very persistent on the palate. It is especially suitable for accompanying desserts with dried fruits, figs, chocolate, or eggs. Its aroma is marked by the sweet aftertaste of caramelised almonds and the spices used in sweets such as Bolo Rei. cavelusa.pt/en/store/portoen/10-20-30-40-50-years/ pacheca-30-year-old-tawny/
Falcoaria Colheita Tardia 2018, Tejo
With Viognier and Fernão Pires, this white wine from Quinta do Casal immediately stands out due to its amber colour. It is marked by an aromatic exuberance and the intense fruit notes that characterise it.
Words: LÍVIA MOKRI
In addition to the tangerine, there’s an aftertaste of fig, dried apricot and orange blossom. This one pairs well with Broas de Natal, the Christmas version of Broa –small oval biscuits made with sweet potatoes, corn or almond flour, sugar and spices like aniseed and cinnamon. casalbranco.com/pt/produto/ falcoaria-colheita-tardiabranco/?v=20c8bd0136e3
Boeira Porto White Diamond, Douro
This nectar is sold in a unique bottle, enhancing the essence of the exquisite Port wine. Think luxury, elegance and authenticity. This wine, produced with the Malvasia Fina, Viosinho, Gouveio and Côdega de Larinho grape
varieties has an intense aroma of citrus fruits, tangerine peel and peach jam and honey. Pairs well with fruits or chocolatebased desserts. elcorteingles.pt/club-delgourmet/0105213350800291quinta-da-boeira-vinho-doporto-diamond-white-garrafa75-cl/
Dalva Porto Colheita White 2011, Douro
With a golden orange colour, this wine has a sophisticated aroma, with notes of honey, elegantly combined with vanilla, stone fruit and tangerine. On the palate, molasses stands out, elegantly combined with spices and apricot. Enjoy it with the perfect partner, red fruit crumble. granvinho.pt/dalva-portocolheita-white-2011
Quinta da Atela Reserve Licoroso 2017, Tejo
Marked by notes of orange and candied orange peel, this is a floral, light and elegant wine that pairs perfectly with Pudim de Ovos (Egg Pudding). portugalvineyards.com/ en/licoroso/23099quinta-da-atela-reservelicoroso-2017-5600727818169.html
Ravasqueira Late Harvest 2022, Alentejo
A slow and gentle 24-hour pressing with frozen grapes reveals notes of ripe citrus fruits with guava, tangerine peel, marmalade, honey and pineapple in syrup. Try it with the Algarvian Carob, Almond and Fig cake. However, it can also be drunk on its own or with raisins for New Year’s wishes. ravasqueira.com/en/shop/wines/ late-harvest-2022
Quinta da Alorna Abafado 5 Years 2016, Tejo
With intense notes of honey, figs and almonds, this Ribatejo wine glides with a smooth and elegant texture. It pairs well with Crème brûlée or Pastel de Nata. alorna.pt/en/produto/dessertabafado-5-years-fernao-pires/
CTX – Licoroso Abafado Branco 2019, Tejo
This intense and fruity fortified wine from Adega do Cartaxo is produced with Fernão Pires grapes. Sweet and unctuous, it has a hint of jam and fig. It goes well with very sweet desserts. adegacartaxo.pt/pt/produto/ctxvinho-licoroso-abafado-doc-dotejo-branco-2019
Quinta dos Muros Vintage Port 2018, Douro
This fortified wine is a blend that results from the combination of Touriga Nacional, Touriga Franca and Tinta Roriz. It is wonderful with fruit desserts such as the Peras Bêbedas. portugalvineyards.com/en/ vintage-port/8941-quinta-doportal-quinta-dos-muros-vintageport-2014-5604242008807.html
A BIT OF SPARKLE
Come midnight on the 31st, the Portuguese begin eating their 12 raisins to represent the 12 months. One raisin is traditionally eaten at each stroke of the clock. And for those who want to accompany the raisins with sparkling wine, here are some super delicious suggestions to start the new year.
Marquês De Marialva Espumante Blanc Des Blancs Doce, Bairrada
Citrus appearance with defined and persistent bubbles. Fresh aromas with nuances of toast and dried fruits. vinha.pt/vinho/espumantemarques-de-marialva-blanc-deblancs-doce-75cl-bairrada/
Raposeira Reserva Doce, Távora-Varosa
A light straw-coloured, crystalclear sparkling wine, it has fruity, fresh, and delicate aromas. It has a characteristic sweet flavour with balanced acidity, ideal to accompany cakes and sweets. onwine.pt/pt/vinhos/espumante/ raposeira-reserva-doce
Murganheira Reserva Doce, Távora-Varosa
A sparkling wine made with the Malvasia Fina, Chardonnay, Cerceal, Pinot, Tinta Roriz and Touriga Nacional grapes, it has the aroma of cooked fruits and a fresh flavour with floral notes. cavelusa.pt/loja/espumantee-champagne/espumantes/ murganheira-reserva-docebranco/
Aliança Danúbio Doce, Bairrada
This sweet sparkling wine has a pale citrine colour. Fruity aromas on the nose, where notes of pear and apple predominate. On the palate, it is persistent, soft, and with a slightly acidic finish that gives it a balanced freshness. A perfect aperitif, or with desserts. vinha.pt/vinho/espumantealianca-danubio-doce-75clbairrada-4365/
QMF (Quinta da Mata Fidalga) Tinto, Bairrada
This one is a ruby colour, with a clear appearance, fine bubbles, and a very persistent foam. A smooth and balanced sparkling wine for the festive season. vinha.pt/vinho/espumante-qmftinto-75cl-bairrada-doc-4411/
Fita Azul Celebration
Reserva Meio Seco, Douro
On the nose, you can feel notes of evolution from ageing in the cellar, pastries, and dried fruits. On the palate, it has a delicate acidity and a velvety flavour. onwine.pt/pt/vinhos/espumante/ fita-azul-celebration-reservameio-seco
Vinhas de Monção Rosé Sparkling, Vinho Verde Elegance and exuberance live hand in hand in this sparkling wine whose creaminess is captivating. portugalvineyards.com/pt/vinhoverde/10178-vinhas-de-moncaorose-sparkling-5601531430127. html
Monte da Ravasqueira
Alfrocheiro Grande
Reserva, Alentejo
This sparkling wine is the result of dedication, passion and art and made exclusively from grapes of the Alfrocheiro variety, harvested by hand. When tasting, it is complex, with very fine bubbles and lively acidity, with notes of candied fruit and biscuit. cavelusa.pt/loja/espumante-echampagne/espumantes/monteda-ravasqueira-grande-reservabrut-nature-branco/
Espumante Luis Pato
Vinha Formal, Bairrada
Made with Bical and Touriga Nacional, this one has a light pink tone. Delicate bubbles open the door to the palate, followed by elegant aromas and hints of fresh fruits. A gourmet sparkling wine. The time in the cellar gave this elegant sparkling great sophistication. vinosofia.pt/pt/espumante-luispato-vinha-formal.html
SAND ARMIES ON THE MARCH
PARTICLES OF SAND STOPPED IN THEIR TRACKS BY DRIFTWOOD, SEAWEED AND STONES FORM SOME OF THE ALGARVE’S MOST BEAUTIFUL DUNES. THEY ARE THE SUBJECTS OF AN EXCEPTIONAL NEW EXHIBITION AT GALERIA CÔRTE-REAL CREATED BY THE ARTIST GRAHAM RIDER
Words: CAROLYN KAIN
CAPTURING THE essence of the seashore, Graham Rider is inspired by annual visits to the gallery in Paderne. Working as artist-in-residence, he never tires of seeing the coast and watching the daily action of the Atlantic tides and waves. At low tide, deposits of sand begin to move inland where, exposed to the wind, they start to dry and an army of grains move up the beach. Any object in their way will cause the larger grains to drop in front and the smaller grains to fall behind. From this sandy embryo the dune will grow in size and may become colonised by small plants.
Graham prefers beaches where the sand dunes are mature enough to support European beachgrass. A type of marram grass, it is sustained by a system of fibrous matted roots that also help to stabilise the dunes. The tufts of grass are hardy and bend with the prevailing wind. Remarkably, even when the wind blows fiercely and the whole plant is buried, the curled leaves will elongate and re-emerge.
Observing, recording and producing oil painted sketches, Graham notes the changing shape of the dunes as more shifting particles advance inland. On returning to the gallery he uses his sketches to produce enhanced artworks of the scene. The choice of looser paintwork and ‘impressionistic handling’ gives a more general feel of the surroundings. In Graham’s opinion, including too much detail would create
a static picture, difficult for a viewer to relate to. Evoking childhood memories of playing amongst the dunes seems to appeal to many people, and Graham is reminded of his own family holidays and the pleasure of the seaside in summer. In his paintings he tries especially to capture the quiet and privacy that hiding amongst the dunes and grasses provided.
As he explains, the importance of marram grasses is their ability to protect fragile sandy habitats, enabling other larger plants to set down roots and grow. For this reason they are no longer harvested, although past generations collected huge quantities of blades and put them to use. Traditionally, each household was allocated its own sand dune or group of dunes. Using a scythe, the blades were cut and woven into mats, barn roofs, fishing nets and shoes. Nowadays, in order to maintain such delicate habitats, in many places it is illegal to disturb these plants or their rhizomes that burrow beneath the sand. In the Algarve many new board walks for pedestrians have been built to prevent their destruction. The usefulness of these grasses for reinforcing sand dunes is so significant that European beachgrass has been introduced to other coastal areas that are vulnerable to erosion. It can be found in Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, the Falkland Islands, Argentina and Chile. With that in mind there are many places where Graham could find his preferred surroundings, but for now he remains loyal to visiting the Algarve. His exhibition is a real delight.
HILE WE MAY have mobile phones to prompt us, there is nothing quite as easy, reliable, and charming as a mechanical reminder, and the humble wristwatch can do this in one of two ways.
The simplest method is with a GMT (Greenwich Mean Time) watch that shows two time zones simultaneously. In contrast, a worldtime watch displays the time in all of the world’s main 24 time zones simultaneously. The local zone is set to 12 o’clock, and the time in other zones is read through the numbers aligning with the relevant city.
TRAVEL TIME W
The simple and elegant mechanism was developed by Louis Cottier in 1931 and remains popular among collectors, with dials that often feature maps of the world.
Both GMT and worldtime watches are functional for those who travel frequently or conduct business across multiple time zones, as well as for professionals such as pilots who operate internationally. Whether you want to track two specific zones or get a broader view of global times, there is an array of travel watches on the market to suit every situation.
GMTS
Tudor Pelagos FXD GMT ‘Zulu Time’
€4,690
Developed in collaboration with the French Marina Nationale in 2021, the newest version of the Pelagos FXD – named for the fixed bars on the watch case – includes a Zulu time function that aviators use to keep track of a third time zone. A military term, Zulu time corresponds to the time at zero degrees of longitude (also known as GMT), with ‘Zulu’ representing ‘Z’ in the phonetic alphabet. On the FXD, an orange arrow-tipped hand tracks Zulu time, completing its journey around the dial once in every 24 hours.
Tudor’s signature ‘Snowflake’ hand shows local time and is set through the winding crown, jumping in one-hour increments; the date changes in either direction when the hour hand passes midnight. The strap is a green woven ribbon embroidered with the Aéronautique Navale’s roundel. tudorwatch.com
Vacheron Constantin Overseas
Dual Time
€82,810
In 2024, Vacheron Constantin led the way with a big trend in watch design – the combination of pink gold and olive green. Four Overseas models were introduced in this lush colourway, including a new 41mm dual time model. The red-tipped arrow hand indicates a second time zone and travels around the dial in 12 hours. An AM/PM indicator at 9 o’clock lets the wearer know whether it is morning or afternoon in their home city.
The watch is sold with three quick-change straps that can be swapped without any tools – a green calfskin strap, a green rubber strap and a pink-gold bracelet with folding clasp and polished and vertical satin-brushed links that are reminiscent of Vacheron’s house logo, the Maltese cross. vacheron-constantin.com
AS ANY TRAVELLER WHO HAS ACCIDENTALLY CONFUSED THEIR AM S WITH THEIR PMS WILL ATTEST TO, THE EASE OF SEEING THE TIME IN ANOTHER COUNTRY, OR SEVERAL COUNTRIES AT ONCE, AT THE GLANCE OF A WRIST IS A CONVENIENCE THAT CAN PROVE PRICELESS
Made in collaboration with its ambassador, NBA hero Giannis Antetokounmpo, Breitling has introduced a set of limitededition Chronomat models, including a 40mm steel GMT. Introduced in 1983 when it was presented as the official watch of the Italian aerial squadron Frecce Tricolori, the first Chronomats for civilians were released a year later.
On this new version, a forest green sunburst dial features baton style indexes and hands coated with Super-LumiNova. A second timezone is read via a 24-hour chapter ring and a yellow GMT hand.
References to Antetokounmpo are scattered across the timepiece, from the ‘GA’ initials on the central seconds hand to the ‘Good Land Green’ coloured dial of his team, the Milwaukee Bucks, and his signature on the steel caseback. The watch is a limited edition of 1,750. The timepieces come in special-edition Giannis Antetokounmpo packaging along with a note from the man nicknamed the Greek Freak, thanks to his super-human skills on the court. breitling.com
Santos de Cartier Dual Time
€9,850
Created by Louis Cartier in 1904 for Brazilian aviator Alberto Santos-Dumont as a watch that could be easily read while flying, the Santos is often credited as being the first man’s wristwatch. By 1911, the model was being made commercially, with a movement from Jaeger inside, making it the very first production wristwatch. Distinctive by design, it became known for its simple aesthetic, including its square case with rounded lugs.
Considering its origins, it should have been a shoo-in for a second time zone; however, that complication was never added. Until now…
This year’s Santos de Cartier Dual Time is different to most standard GMTs, displaying an independent second time zone via a subdial positioned between 5 and 7 o’clock with a 12-hour indication plus an AM/PM indication. Simple and elegant, the watch has a sunray brushed grey dial with applied Roman numerals and a railway minute track.
Inside the case is customised movement based on the self-winding Sellita SW330 with a 48-hour power reserve. The watch comes with both a quick-change bracelet and a grey alligator-leather strap. cartier.com
Panerai Luminor Quaranta BiTempo PAM01640
€10,000
Panerai first introduced metal bracelets to its collection in 1999, with improved models being added in 2008 and 2017. For 2024, the brand has delivered the most functional and ergonomic version to date with a V-shape design that tapers from case to buckle. The large links are brushed on their top surface and polished on the edges and central links giving a 3D effect.
Included in the new collection is a Luminor Quaranta BiTempo with a 12-hour GMT function shown via a white tipped arrow hand – here there is no 24-hour scale and the wearer will need to know whether it is AM or PM in their home time zone.
The GMT hand is coated in blue SuperLumiNova to readily distinguish it from the standard hour and minute hands in low light conditions. Making sure that nobody forgets the Italian roots of the company, the dial bears the legend BiTempo, Italian for ‘dual time’. panerai.com
WORLDTIMERS
Patek Philippe World Time Date, ref. 5330G-001
€83,859
When Patek Philippe launched a new World Time Date at the Tokyo edition of its Grand Exhibition Watch Art in 2023, it was as a limited edition for the Japanese market only. But this year the piece entered the brand’s core collection with the release of the new ref. 5330G-001.
The watch contains a patented world first in the form of a date display synchronised with local time – the time zone selected at the 12 o’clock position on the city disc – both at midnight and when crossing the International Date Line. This resulted in the creation of a brand-new movement, Calibre 240 HU C.
In another first, the date display has a transparent glass hand with a hammershaped red lacquer tip in that moves along a scale from 1 to 31. All adjustments for the World Time complication are controlled via the crown and a pusher in the case band at 10 o’clock.
On the city disk, a red dot between Auckland and Midway marks the International Date Line. patek.com
Frederique Constant Classic Worldtimer Manufacture in forest green
From €4,395
This year saw two limited-edition versions of Frederique Constant’s Classic Worldtimer Manufacture added to the popular line-up. With a forest green theme, the timepieces are housed in 42mm cases in either steel (718 pieces) or rose gold (36 pieces).
Both models have a world map on the dial and a date window at 6 o’clock. The backdrop for the dial map is a sunburst green that changes shade in different light conditions.
All 24 zones are displayed via a city disc and an outer 24-hour disc that is highlighted in a lighter and darker shade to denote day and night at a glance.
For ease of use, all the functions can be adjusted using the winding crown – in its default position, it winds the automatic movement, pulled out by one notch it adjusts the worldtimer function – the date by rotating it upwards, the city ring by rotating it downwards. frederiqueconstant.co.uk
Carl F Bucherer Heritage Worldtimer
From €7,500
One of the newest travel watches on the market is the Heritage Worldtimer from Carl F. Bucherer. A chic, 1950s-inspired model in a 39mm case, it is as minimalist as a timepiece displaying 24 time zones can possibly be.
Available in five versions in gold or steel, it is at its vintage best in a monochrome form with steel case, rhodium city ring, matte silver 24-hour ring, sunray brushed silvered dial and steel Milanese bracelet. The city ring is large and easy to read and operated by a second crown positioned at 9 o’clock, directly opposite the winding and time setting crown.
Powering the watch is the COSC-certified CFB A2020 self-winding movement with 55-hour power reserve. The calibre is equipped with the brand’s signature peripheral winding rotor, which enables an unobstructed view of the movement, including the balance spring, plates and bridges that are decorated with Côtes de Genève (Geneve stripes) and snailing.
A big advantage to having a rotor that spins around the edge of the calibre instead of being placed on top is that it means the overall thickness of the watch can be kept to a minimum – just 10.5mm – enhancing the overall elegance of the piece.
carl-f-bucherer.com
IWC Pilot’s Watch Timezoner
Top Gun Woodland
€18,000
Not as new as others in this list, but one that deserves its place, IWC’s Pilot’s Watch Timezoner debuted in 2016 as the world’s first worldtimer where a new time zone could be set via the bezel. Originally including a chronograph function, several other versions followed, and in 2023 the Pilot’s Watch Timezoner Top Gun Woodland edition, in a dark green ceramic case, was launched.
white and in IWC’s own solution to DST, the bezel has a small ‘S’ to indicate the cities that recognise summertime.
iwc.com
Bovet Récital 28 Prowess 1
Price on request
While not a limited edition, the model is limited by production due to the difficulties in manufacturing the 46mm ceramic case in IWC’s specific shade of green. The olive tones continue to the Arabic numerals, ceramic bezel that is a touch lighter and a green rubber strap with nylon insert.
The Pilot’s Watch Timezoner enables the owner to set another time zone together with the date and 24-hour hand by simply rotating the bezel. The patented mechanism is powered by the self-winding calibre 82760 with Pellaton winding system and components made from ceramic. Extremely user friendly, all you need to do is push the bezel down, turn it to the desired time zone, and release it. It’s as simple as that.
Central hour and minute hands display the local time, while the 24-hour arced indication at 12 o’clock shows the home time of the selected time zone. The 24 reference cities for the worldtimer are in
Winner of the 2024 Grand Prix d’Horlogerie de Genève (GPHG) Mechanical Exception Prize, the Bovet Récital 28 Prowess 1 does what no watch before it has done, by mechanically taking account of Daylight Saving Time (DST), which is not possible on a traditional worldtimer. Bovet has solved this problem by displaying the cities representing time zones on 24 rollers, each with four positions: UTC (Universal Time Coordinated), AST (American Summer Time), EAS (Europe and America Summer Time), and EWT (European Winter Time).
As well as worldtime shown on rollers, the watch’s functions include a flying tourbillon and a perpetual calendar. A ‘Function Isolator’ prevents damage to the calendar through incorrect manipulation. Taking five years to perfect, the timepiece is made up of 744 components and holds four patents. While the watch is extremely complex, it is easy to set and to read. Only eight of the hand-finished movements can be made per year, and just 60 will be made in total. bovet.com
Tracey Llewellyn is regarded as one of the world’s leading journalists specialising in the watch industry. She is the Telegraph Time Editor and Editor of the British Horological Institute’s Horological Journal, the oldest journal in continuous production in the world.
What a treat! chilli garlic prawns
SHELLFISH IS ONE OF THE MOST POPULAR CHOICES HERE IN PORTUGAL, AND READILY AVAILABLE AT LOCAL FISH MARKETS AND SUPERMARKETS.
THIS RECIPE BY SUPERCOOK SEEMA PANKHANIA SMOTHERS PRAWNS IN GARLIC AND FRIES THEM IN COCONUT OIL. MAKE SURE YOU MOP UP THAT CRISPY GARLIC CHILLI OIL WITH SOME NAAN
SERVES 4 30 MINUTES
INGREDIENTS
1kg head-on and shell-on raw prawns (750g de-shelled)
100ml coconut oil
1 bulb of garlic, peeled and roughly chopped
2tbsp desiccated coconut
10 long dried chillies (eg Sichuan chillies, De arbol chillies, but definitely not Thai chillies), finely chopped
1tbsp chilli flakes (plus an extra tbsp if you like)
1tbsp chilli powder optional*
3tbsp crispy shallots
½ tsp sugar
1tsp salt
10 fresh curry leaves
2 limes, cut into wedges RECIPE
Crispy Chilli Garlic Kerala Prawns is a favourite of Seema Pankhania from her cookbook Craveable (Penguin Michael Joseph, €21.99 at amazon.de). The photography by Haarala Hamilton is very tasty, too.
METHOD
1 Remove the shells and devein the prawns, keeping the heads on – they give lots of flavour to the oil and are great to suck on.
2 In a large pan, melt the coconut oil and add the garlic and desiccated coconut. Cook for five minutes on a medium heat, until the garlic is golden brown and crispy.
3 Turn the heat to low and add the chopped chillies and chilli flakes, chilli powder (if using), shallots, sugar and salt. Cook for a further two minutes, until the oils starts to look red.
4 Add the prawns to the pan and cook for two minutes on each side. Before flipping them over, add the fresh curry leaves.
5 Toss the prawns well in the garlic and lay them out on a platter. Add some wedges of lime and enjoy with rice or hot naan.
NOTE
* D ried chillies and chilli flakes vary a lot in heat, so try your chilli oil and add a bit more chilli powder if you want it spicier.
This recipe uses Sichuan long dried chillies, which tend not to be too spicy. And if you want to reduce the heat, remove the seeds!
Get involved
THE NUMBER OF REQUESTS WE HAVE HAD FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT LOCAL CHARITIES HAS BEEN OVERWHELMING. IT ’ S NOT JUST FUNDRAISING THAT WE ’ RE BEING ASKED ABOUT – BUT ALSO THE ROLL-UP-YOURSLEEVES-AND-GET-STUCK-IN VOLUNTEERING
Words: LUCY MAYER
ALERTA
Following a number of years of devastating wildfires across Portugal, one of which killed three firefighters this September, we’re reminded of the importance of charities like Alerta. It was founded in 2016 as a response to a brutal fire which took hold of the region that year. Alerta’s aim is to provide information and fire warnings to the local community living and working in the Algarve and Lower Alentejo regions of Portugal, while supporting the work of the firefighters, or Bombeiros. The organisation says that: “fighting forest fires is hot, dirty and exhausting work with little respite, requiring bravery and dedication.”
It is during the fire season, which normally runs from the start of July to the end of September, that fire stations regularly run short of essentials, such as easily portable food and drink, medical supplies and even dry socks. Alerta’s dedicated team of volunteers work to ensure firefighters are kept well stocked and provided for. Money raised is also spent on new uniforms and life-saving equipment such as defibrillators. Those who want to contribute are asked to donate money or items like water bottles, wet wipes, burn cream, Vaseline and eye wash.
In 2019, Alerta founder Debby Burton was awarded the British Empire Medal by Her late Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II in recognition of her achievements in support of the local and expatriate communities of the Algarve. Debby was recognised this year, winning the Pride of the Algarve title in the Algarve Business Awards. algarvefire.info
REMAR’s mission is to improve the living conditions of people, families and communities in poor countries and regions across Portugal and the world. The charity has created a number of selffinancing and awareness-raising projects, with the ultimate goal of contributing to the complete eradication of poverty.
REMAR has several schools around the world with boarding children who receive food, clothing, shelter and a comprehensive education. It takes its vision from the Gospel of Jesus Christ – that each individual is responsible for their material improvement, their moral progress and their spiritual development and that anyone can enjoy a dignified life.
One of the many groups of people supported by the charity is prisoners. They are provided with regular meals and clothing as Remar says society tends to treat prisoners differently and so it has taken control of management at prisons in some of the poorest countries to help improve basic living standards for prisoners.
In the ‘Solidarity Shops’, which can be found across the Faro district, supporters can purchase a variety of material goods, including clothing, furniture, household appliances, books and toys, and the money raised goes into progressing the charity.
The shops also ensure those in need can obtain these goods at an affordable price. remar.pt
REMAR
GOLDRA DOG SANCTUARY
They say a dog is for life not just for Christmas, and that’s especially true here in the Algarve. The Goldra Dog Sanctuary near Loulé is responsible for the daily care and adoption process of up to 70 pups. Run by volunteers and supported by various fundraising events, sponsors and donations, most of the dogs that come into its care have been abandoned and require costly medical attention. Once they have been nursed back to health, they are ready to find their forever homes. If they are too old for adoption, the charity has a special place for them to live out the rest of their days and the dogs’ needs are met by donors.
Volunteers are constantly needed to help with cleaning kennels, feeding, walking, bathing and grooming the dogs as well as the all-important giving of cuddles. Algarve residents are also needed to foster the Sanctuary’s dogs to make the eventual transition between kennel life and their new home life easier. All vet costs will be covered by the charity and, if need be, food costs, too. thegoldradogsanctuary.com
NECI
NECI stands for the Specialised Centre for the Included Citizen. It is a not-for-profit organisation located in Lagos. Established in 1991, it helps the most vulnerable in the community – both children and adults with physical and mental disabilities – at their centre in Praia da Luz. The organisation plans a number of activities to help the people it supports lead more fulfilling lives.
In August, a group visit to Lagos Museum was undertaken. Participants had the opportunity to learn a little about the history and culture of the Municipality of Lagos while enjoying a day out. Other activities include horse riding with Riding for the Disabled.
Horse riding is particularly beneficial for pupils who have profound and multiple learning difficulties, as it provides a multi-sensory experience which is hard to replicate in any other environment. Apart from the physical benefits, other skills that a riding session can build on include numeracy, spelling and listening, as well as problem-solving. Fundraisers like carol concerts and Just Giving campaigns contribute to the financial operations of NECI. neci.pt
APAA (ASSOCIATION FOR THE PROTECTION OF ANIMALS IN THE ALGARVE)
Founded in 1994, APAA is one of the best-known animal charities on the Algarve. Over the years, it has rescued hundreds of animals and re-homed many of them in Portugal, the UK, Belgium, Germany and Holland. However, its rescue centre had to close in 2008 as the land on which it was situated was put up for sale. An extensive search was launched, but a replacement could not be found so the emphasis today has gone from rescuing animals in need to helping to pay for sterilisations, castrations, urgent treatments and operations. According to the charity, great headway has been made throughout the Algarve in the past two decades in reducing the number of births of unwanted puppies and kittens, but unfortunately the problem continues. The charity helps pet owners to get their animals spayed or neutered and also helps to pay owners’ vets bills, which can be extremely expensive. As a voluntary organisation, APAA does not receive any Government funding and relies on the public for financial help. apaaportugal.com
HONEYMOON | FAMILY | CITY BREAK | VILLA | CRUISE | ADVENTURE | SKI | SAFARI Bespoke holidays, designed with you in mind
OYEZ Let the festivities well and truly begin with Oyez’s head-turning She Red Dress. All of Oyez’s pieces are tailored to order with top-quality materials from Portugal – Christmas is for treating yourself, after all! Their store near Belém in Lisbon is also a dressmaking school. oyezbrand.com
JOSEFINAS Passionate Red toddler shoes are handmade to order, perfect for little ones who want to strut their stuff at family gatherings. These mini leather party pumps will have your tots stealing the spotlight. josefinas.com
S IMPLY R ED
‘Tis the season to spruce up your wardrobe and add a dash of festive flair to your look. From comfy shoes to eyecatching accessories, let’s explore nine innovative Portuguese brands that’ll have you turning heads at every Christmas party - without looking like you’re having to make an effort! And red, of course, is the colour for now
STUDIOCORK For a touch of sustainable glamour, check out StudioCork’s Heart Cork Crossbody Bag. This triangleshaped bag, made entirely of cork with a charming heart design, is the perfect accessory for your festive outings. Handcrafted in Portugal, it’s a stylish nod to sustainability –because who says you can’t save the planet and look fabulous doing it? studiocork.com
THE-ARE
Channel your inner fashionista with THEARE’s Blessed Indecision red trousers. These sleek polyurethane leather pants have front pockets and are straight cut, so they’re perfect for those who want to look stylish while having easy access to holiday snacks, or their phone, at least. the-are.com
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UNDER SLEEPWEAR
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Who says you can’t be stylish while snoozing? Under Sleepwear’s Cherry Pyjama Set in deep red, trimmed with pink piping and buttons, is the epitome of bedtime chic. Made in Portugal, these PJs are designed to last, ensuring you’ll be the best-dressed person at the breakfast table for many Christmases to come. undersleepwear.com
LABRADOR No festive wardrobe is complete without a luxurious knit. Labrador’s Bordeaux pullover is a bestseller for good reason. Made from 100% wool with a special treatment for unparalleled softness, this will keep you warm and stylish throughout the holiday season. Perfect for those “I’m just popping to the shops” moments when you know you’ll bump into everyone you’ve ever met. labrador.pt
BUREL FACTORY Burel Factory
is all about celebrating traditional Portuguese craftsmanship and their 100% wool polka dot shawl is a perfect example of that ethos. Whether you drape it over your shoulders for a chic evening look or wrap it around you for those chilly winter mornings, you’re embracing a piece of Portugal’s rich textile heritage. burelfactory.com
So there you have it! Nine fantastic brands to elevate your festive fashion game. Whether you’re decking the halls or rocking around the Christmas tree, these stylish offerings will ensure you do it with flair. Remember, fashion isn’t just about looking good – it’s about feeling good and supporting local craftsmanship. Now go forth, be merry, and show those reindeer jumpers who’s boss!
LACHOIX
shoes are the gift of comfort this season. Their Bordeaux calf hair loafers are the epitome of elegance and ease. Founded by Fátima Carvalho, who struggled to find elegant non-heeled shoes (a necessity in Lisbon’s hilly streets), Lachoix is the answer to your festive footwear prayers. lachoix.com
mistletoe or making a grand entrance at the office party, this vibrant headpiece adds just the right amount of seasonal flair. It’s the ideal gift for anyone who believes that a great outfit starts from the top down – or for those who simply need to hide their questionable holiday hairstyle choices. hurricane.pt
CHRISTMAS MOVIE MAGIC
WHETHER YOU ’ RE A FAN OF HEARTWARMING CLASSICS OR QUIRKY UNTRADITIONAL FESTIVE TALES, OUR CURATED SELECTION OF FILMS –INCLUDING ONE MADE RIGHT HERE IN THE ALGARVE – INVITES YOU TO DESIGN YOUR OWN JOLLY RIDE THROUGH THE SILVER SCREEN
Words: CHRISTINA MORENO
THERE IS something magical about losing ourselves in a corny holiday movie. In a world with challenging times and a holiday season approaching that can feel bittersweet for many, it is especially important to make time to pause and sip on a cup of comfort and joy.
Let’s face it: holiday flicks often follow a well-worn path, serving up traditional recipes like snowy settings, unlikely romances and joyful hometown returns. These cinematic sugary confections can be as predictable as grandma’s Christmas treats, but that’s precisely their charm – sometimes a little predictability is exactly what the season calls for.
Temporarily escaping the flurry of social obligations, financial pressures and pre-holiday deadlines to use your season’s ‘unlimited free pass’ to watch the corniest flicks you can find is beneficial for your overall wellbeing. It’s a form of effortless self-care that requires nothing more than a blanket, a remote control and your willingness to suspend disbelief.
The combination of familiarity, positive emotions, and shared experiences explains why holiday movies remain a beloved tradition, providing emotional support and a much-needed dose of joy and hope, particularly during challenging times. According to scientists, when we watch these feel-good stories unfold in expected ways, our brains reward us with a double dose of positive chemicals. This not only elevates mood but also provides us with a sense of comfort and control.
Redirecting our minds to the best
A CLASSIC
parts of humanity through tales of love, hope and kindness can actually be beneficial to our overall mental health. Movies with uplifting and inspirational messages can offer us some much-needed solace, a healthy time-limited emotional escape from our busy, demanding world. You probably have your favourites already, but in case you need – or want – some further inspiration we will take you through some interesting facts about the most popular Christmas films as well as some tempting options you may never have heard of.
If you are just not into the overly cheery festive stuff or simply need a break from it, may we suggest Billy Wilder’s The Apartment (1960). This film is not only a top-tier rom-com, it’s also a refreshingly relatable holiday classic on how sometimes the best Christmas cheer comes from embracing life’s messy realities. Expect tons of humour and heart delivered by the charming Shirley MacLaine and Jack Lemmon, making it a must-watch for anyone seeking something a bit more genuine this season. (Watch it on Prime or online at Dailymotion).
There are Christmas movies for ALL tastes from the cheesy, predictable traditional classics to films that might bring some ‘discomfort and joy’ like Silent Night, Deadly Night and Krampus, which juxtapose festive cheer with horror themes, reflecting varying cultural attitudes towards Christmas celebrations.
The
first Christmas movie ever made
In 1898, just two years after the Lumiere Brothers made crowds go wild with their 50-second clip of a train coming towards the camera, George Albert Smith made the very first Christmas movie. Despite its brief runtime of just 76 seconds, Santa Claus was a pioneering cinematic achievement and a remarkable technical feat that revolutionised filmmaking.
Smith, now regarded as the father of film editing, introduced parallel action and sophisticated double-exposure effects, allowing him to simultaneously depict Santa on a rooftop and children in their beds below. These pioneering methods, along with seamless transitions and disappearing acts, elevated this holiday marvel to becoming the most technically and conceptually advanced film of its time. https://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=-ax7ITrk5HM
Festive flicks fun facts
In contrast to the much much lower pay he received in the original Home Alone (1990) movie, Macaulay Culkin earned a whopping US$4.5 million, plus 5% of the box-office gross from the sequel.
Now a beloved American classic, It’s A Wonderful Life (1946) originally bombed at the box office. It eventually gained popularity thanks to frequent television broadcasts starting in the 1970s. In a memo issued by the FBI in 1947, the movie was declared a “Communist infiltration of the motion picture industry”.
How the Grinch Stole Christmas (2000) was adapted from the book by Doctor Seuss and almost never became a movie. The director, Chuck Jones, had to persistently pitch the concept to numerous potential sponsors before unexpectedly finding support from the Foundation for Commercial Banks. Despite the story’s anti-consumerist message, this unlikely partnership finally brought this festive favourite to life.
After combining what was originally intended to be two movies, director Richard Curtis cut four plot lines to create Love Actually (2003).
Director Robert Zemeckisthe gave a secret shout-out to his actual childhood home through the conductor of The Polar Express (2004) announcing ‘11344 Edbrooke’ near the beginning of the film.
Based on the 1985 book by Chris Van Allsburg, this movie was also listed in the
2006 Guinness Book of World Records as the ‘first all-digital capture’ film.
Sometimes movie titles get lost in translation in foreign markets. In the Czech Republic, for example, the movie Bad Santa (2003) is called ‘Santa Is A Pervert.’
The beloved holiday film A Christmas Story (1983) draws its inspiration from Jean Shepherd’s semi-autobiographical short stories, primarily sourced from his collection In God We Trust, All Others Pay Cash. Interestingly, some of these tales first appeared in Playboy magazine in the mid-1960s, before being adapted into the screenplay that would become a Christmas classic.
It took a team of around 100 people to make The Nightmare before Christmas (1993). The whole stop motion movie took three years to make.
A Charlie Brown Christmas (1965) was made possible by Coca-Cola when the company was looking for a Schulz holiday special.
Miracle on 34th Street (1946) was filmed live during that year’s actual Macy’s Thanksgiving Day parade in New York City.
National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation (1989). The Griswold family’s extravagant holiday light display actually led to a genuine power outage in their neighbourhood during the filming of the movie.
Disney may have been influenced by the spirit of the season when they made an exception in hiring Tim Allen for the movie
SOME MOVIE AND FOOD PAIRING IDEAS
Home Alone and (cheese) pizza.
The Polar Express and hot chocolate.
How the Grinch Stole Christmas and roast beef and/or green jello.
A Christmas Story and Chinese food take-away.
Little Women and old fashioned pecan pie.
The Night Before Christmas and pumpkin pie.
A Charlie Brown Christmas and peanut butter cups/treats.
Frosty the Snowman and snowball biscuits or white marzipan treats.
A Christmas Carol and Christmas pudding.
The Santa Clause (1994). The exception was made in spite of Disney’s strict policy against hiring ex-cons: Allen had been arrested in 1978 for the possession of nearly 1.5 pounds of cocaine.
Adorable animated short films
Shaun the Sheep: The Flight Before Christmas (2021), 30 minute.
Suited for all ages but especially charming for fans of Pulitzer Prize winning IrishAmerican writer, Frank McCourt, Angela’s Christmas (2018), 30 min., and Angela’s Christmas Wish (2020), 47 min, are sure to warm everyone’s heart. Malachy McCourt, Frank McCourt’s brother, an Irish-American actor, writer and politician is the narrator. Note to fans of Frank McCourt’s audiobooks: Malachy sounds very much like Frank.
Fancy a sweet vintage festive cartoon? Look up The Small One (1978), a 25- minute short film based on the book by Charles Tazewell.
Sleighing the ordinary: some bizarre festive flicks
Santa with Muscles (1996): starring WWE star Hulk Hogan as a millionaire mistaken for a mall Santa.
Rare Exports: A Christmas Tale (2010): A Finnish holiday horror film featuring an evil version of Santa Claus battling monstrous elves.
Holiday in Handcuffs (2007): This ABC Family special features Melissa Joan
Hart kidnapping a man to impress her parents during Christmas. The film’s odd premise and nonsensical character interactions contribute to its charm and popularity
Star Wars Holiday Special (1978): In spite of its bizarre storytelling and awkward execution, this weird film has since gained a cult following.
Other Christmas Horror Films include Silent Night, Deadly Night and Krampus. There is literally something for everyone.
A Portuguese TV Christmas movie
A Consoada (2021) offers a delightful way to immerse yourself in local holiday traditions and put your Portuguese into practice, too! The film unfolds on Christmas Eve as flights are rerouted due to heavy snowfall in Lisbon, leading to unexpected stories among passengers stranded at Beja airport. Watch for free at TVI player (https://tviplayer.iol.pt/)
Christmas and santa-mental documentaries
Christmas In a Day (2013): Directed by Kevin Macdonald, this documentary captures the essence of British Christmas celebrations in 2012, offering a poignant snapshot of national traditions and shared moments during the holiday season.
Christmas Under Fire (1941): from the BFI National Archive, this propaganda film intended for US audiences showcases the resilience of the British people as they maintain Christmas spirit amidst the
challenges of World War II.
I Am Santa Claus (2014): This documentary peeks behind the real yearround lives and dedication of professional Santas who bring holiday magic to life.
Becoming Santa (2010): Jack Sanderson’s journey to becoming a professional Santa Claus for a season unfolds in this charming documentary, exploring the transformative power of believing during the holiday season.
For fans of historical films
In case you haven’t seen it yet, Joyeux Noël/Merry Christmas (2005) is Christian Carion’s historical drama about the reallife Christmas truce that broke out on the Western Front in 1914.
Filmed in Loulé: an award-winning Christmas short
A Christmas Gift (2023), directed by Lou Di Giorgio, is a heartfelt film that conveys themes of love, giving, and peace in under 15 minutes. Shot in just four days in January 2022, it was completed shortly before the onset of the Ukraine-Russia war. The film has received accolades, winning ‘Best Short Film in Portuguese Language’ at the Portugal International Film Festival and ‘Best Foreign Short’ at the San Diego Movie Awards. With subtitles available in English, French, and Italian. (To watch: https://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=ii54k8xtWg0
Highest grossing Christmas movies
The Grinch (2018)
Worldwide Gross: US$526.7 million
Domestic Gross: US$271.3 million
Home Alone (1990)
Worldwide Gross: US$477 million
Domestic Gross: US$286 million
Home Alone 2: Lost in New York (1992)
Worldwide Gross: US$359 million
How the Grinch Stole Christmas (2000)
Worldwide Gross: US$345 million
A Christmas Carol (2009)
Worldwide Gross: US$325 million
The Polar Express (2004)
Worldwide Gross: US$315 million
Love Actually (2003)
Worldwide Gross: US$248 million
Elf (2003)
Worldwide Gross: US$227 million
The Holiday (2006)
Worldwide Gross: US$205 million
The Santa Clause (1994)
Worldwide Gross: US$190 million
CHRISTMAS PRESENCE
IT IS ALL AROUND. THE EARLY MORNING CRISPNESS. THE SOUND OF CHOIRS. CHRISTMAS TREES DECKED WITH BELLS AND RIBBONS. THE SMELL OF CHESTNUTS ROASTING. STREETS DRESSED WITH STRINGS OF FAIRY LIGHTS. YES, IT ’ S TIME TO PLAN THOSE PERFECT GIFTS
Words: BURFORD HURRY
AS I GET older it becomes more and more difficult to accept that Christmas seems to arrive sooner each year. It’s not Christmas that is the problem – I quite like the season as I officially recognise that with Christmas day we have passed the winter solstice and are edging towards spring, definitely time to celebrate. However, it’s the events and even more stressful the giving of presents that are a challenge. But to be honest even the latter are not that stressful these days for me as some aspects have improved. I used to dread the thought of choosing and then buying Chrismas gifts for my nearest and dearest but fortunately the last two Christmasses have been relatively painless as the family decided that a name should be drawn from a hat and only one present for one person should be bought. It certainly makes that part of the festive season much less worrying.
Of course, as a child I used to enjoy getting presents – the more
the merrier. I remember clearly being very disappointed one year when I was given only one book. The fact that it was a weighty encyclopaedia didn’t soften the blow. Fast forward to when I was an uncle and my nephew and niece seem to be buried every year under colourful and shiny paper as they unwrapped each present with squeals of delight and threw the paper onto the growing mountain of the stuff. It was then I realised that I had changed and that I was no longer a devoted consumer and that more meant less for me.
Potted presents
These days, being a gardener, I tend to give plants at Christmas as presents to friends. Naturally, not all my friends have gardens, but one or two of them live in apartments that have verandas. Rosa, who is in the Loulé market on a Saturday morning, brings out boxes of gorgeous lily bulbs in all sorts of shapes and colours from September onwards. I buy several bulbs and then plant them in a number of large pots filled with a mix of my compost with one sixth of river sand. I start to water them after planting so some will have their heads pushing through the soil when Christmas arrives.
Previous spread, left hand page, top left, clockwise: hybrid aloe Aloe Vera; hyacinths; fresh hellebore and lily of the valley; a gift of seeds. Right hand page: the Christmas rose, the work od helleborus.de. This page: a favourite, the Poinsettia
I usually buy lilies, but Rosa also has a collection of small assortment of other loose bulbs such as freesias and the occasional cheerful sparaxis. As do the local supermarkets with selections of ixias and alliums. All planted in pots would make interesting and lovely gifts. Do you think you could be tempted to do the same? Friends may silently curse you with the arrival of pots of plants but when they burst into glorious bloom in March or April all will be forgiven.
Going to seed
If you usually give presents to children or if some of your friends are juniors how about giving them some seeds to plant? I remember my first couple of packets of exotic seeds given to me when I was ten and how excited I was when the seeds germinated. Give either flower or veggie seeds, flowers such as poppies, lupin beans (tremoços) or indigenous seeds (Sementes de Portugal: sementesdeportugal.pt). You could give fun seeds such as popcorn or veggie or salad seeds such as peas, carrots, beets, spinach, lettuce, watercress, lettuce, onions, coriander, turnip greens, and flat-leaf parsley. As far as the latter is concerned remind your friends on the Christmas card that once there is flat-leaf parsley plant in the garden and if she is left to seed herself they will always have volunteers in the garden.
Apart from anything else, giving seeds will get youngsters into the garden, and once they have sown the seeds and seen the magic of plants growing they will be hooked on gardening for life.
You could also give a plant you have grown from a cutting and which you think would suit their garden. I have a couple in pots for friends now. There is a rooted cutting of a hybrid aloe which grows untidily and is fairly large but has beautiful dusty orange flowers which is destined for a friend whose beloved cat ‘Dusty’‘ has
recently died. For her husband, who says that he is not a gardener but grows a wonderful dry field of rosemary bushes, I have a rooted cutting of the Canary Island sage (Salvia canariensis) so he can later take cuttings from her and easily add more of her stock with her pink flowers and silver green leaves to dance across his field of rosemary.
What about seedlings for gifts? This year I bought five seedlings of the Australian flame tree (Brachychiton acerifolius) from Mario, who also runs a small plant stall in the Saturday morning market in Loulé. He had picked the seeds off a tree in Faro. I had seen one flowering years ago on the road down from Loulé to Quarteira. It grew beautifully, flowered profusely, and then one day was no longer there. Cut down to make place for a small square of concrete slabs.
I have potted the flame tree seedlings and they are looking robust and healthy and ready to plant out. Three trees are destined for friends of mine, the other two are still a bit small for presents.
Other trees as presents for friends are Mediterranean hackberries (Celtis australis). The avenue above me is lined with these trees and their seeds often volunteer in my garden.
I transplanted four and have them growing in tall thin pots to encourage their tap roots to develop. These hackberries are destined for a large sprawling garden – it would have to be a large garden as they grow into huge trees – and will be part of a thicket of trees so I am not trimming them to a single trunk.
For a friend with a dry garden why not buy a lovely little smoky grey leaf trub such as the silver cassia (Senna artemisioides ssp. Filifolia). It has small delicate yellow flowers and is delightfully trouble free and drought resistant.
The Natal (Christmas) plum (Carissa macrocarpa), a small shrub with sweetly scented white waxy flowers, glossy leaves and plump red, edible fruit would make an attractive and appropriate gift. To make your plant more Christmassy buy some red ribbon and tie small bows in her branches. She is called a Natal plum because she originates in Natal, South Africa; Natal having acquired its name when Vasco de Gama sailed along its coast on Christmas Day in 1497 and named the country Terra Natalis, after the Portuguese word Natal for Christmas.
Carrisas are suitable for pots or the garden and although she originated in a wet, semi-tropical climate she is relatively tough and even drought resistant once established. I have seen one growing, untended, next to the road above São Romão. Think about giving a pot of agapanthus (Agapanthus africanus). They are beautiful. You might choose to give white ones for Xmas but there are some dazzling blue ones, both tall and miniature. Although they are often called Lily of the Nile I was introduced to them in the wild growing along the river banks and flowering at Xmas time in the shady kloofs of the Eastern Cape in South Africa. A fuchsia with her dangling, contrasting and glamorous shape and petals are another possible choice for a present. Her Portuguese name says it all, brincos-de-princesa, princess’ earrings so she has to be an exciting and exotic plant to give. Fuchsias are reasonably easy to grow but do have a few simple demands like a fairly rich soil followed by some sun to flower.
Make a wreath
Having sorted out the presents it would be time to think of a homemade Christmas plastic-free garland for the front door or gate and made from mastic bushes (Pistacia lentiscus) and other plants. Choose a couple of thin supple mastic branches with the brightest red berries and weave them around a suitable length of baling wire together with sprays of grey holm oak leaves (Quercus coccifera), tufts of pine leaves and a shiny scarlet ribbon.
Once that has been done it is time to relax, throw your feet up and settle down to really enjoy the season. Merry Christmas!
WHAT’S YOUR YOGA STYLE?
THE DIVERSITY OF STYLES AND FORMS OF YOGA CAN BE A LITTLE OVERWHELMING AT FIRST LOOK. HATHA, VINYASA, IYENGAR, KUNDALINI, ASHTANGA – WHERE DO YOU EVEN START? WITH THE HELP OF SOME AMAZING LOCAL TEACHERS, WE ’ VE ROUNDED UP SOME OF THE DIFFERENT STYLES AVAILABLE IN THE ALGARVE
Words: SALLY DIXON
TODAY, MAINSTREAM yoga largely centres on physical postures, or asanas, with minimal attention to the deeper spiritual and philosophical dimensions that traditionally defined the ancient practice.
As yoga entered the Western market, it was reframed to suit consumer demand, emphasising the physical aspects to fit into the health and fitness sectors and cater to a diverse audience. This adaptation helped make yoga widely accessible, but in doing so, often diluted the original essence of the practice. Yoga classes and workshops often focus on asanas because they are visually engaging, physically challenging, and offer tangible benefits—strength, flexibility, and stress relief. These make yoga accessible and marketable, but they also overshadow the more introspective practices like meditation, breathwork (pranayama), and ethical guidelines (yamas and niyamas) that form the foundation of traditional yoga.
Yoga is a holistic approach to well-being. The term ‘yoga’ comes from the Sanskrit root ‘yuj’ meaning ‘to unite’. In yoga philosophy, this union represents the connection between the mind, body, and spirit, allowing individuals to cultivate a deeper sense of self-awareness and tranquillity. Guia-based teacher, Lulu of Lulushanti Yoga, says: “‘Yoga has changed my life’ is a phrase I hear often from my students—and it’s true for me, too. Yoga heightens our awareness and teaches
us to apply the ‘management tools’ we learn on the mat to control our reactions to life’s challenges. As we age and our bodies change, yoga can offer physical acceptance and help with pain relief or management. Others find a deeper spiritual connection, gaining a sense of peace and self-acceptance.”
With Lulu’s background in psychology, she acknowledges the power of yoga to enable us to let go and accept what we cannot control. “Yoga instils selfcompassion, self-worth, and self-respect,” she says. “The physical practice on the mat serves as a gateway to selfacceptance, helping us cultivate mental clarity and connect with the deeper layers of the mind. As a teacher, I believe it’s essential to pay close attention to each student’s unique qualities, needs, and experiences. I encourage them to listen to their bodies and to approach their practice with compassion and kindness.”
Modern yoga is practised worldwide in various forms, each catering to different goals, abilities, and preferences. So, let’s dive into some of the most popular styles, their distinct features, and more importantly, where you can practise them in the Algarve.
IYENGAR YOGA
Best for: Those who want to improve alignment, balance, mental clarity and stamina, and understand each pose deeply.
Developed by Guruji B.K.S. Iyengar, this style emphasises precise alignment and uses props like blocks, belts, yoga chairs, and blankets to assist in achieving the correct posture. Poses are held for extended periods, allowing practitioners to deepen their understanding of each asana. Iyengar yoga is accessible to all levels and is particularly beneficial for those with physical limitations or injuries.
Iyengar yoga teacher and long-time Algarve resident, Sol Viegas, teaches out of her beautiful studio in Almancil. She’s a shining example of how yoga can permeate into all aspects of your life, bringing greater peace, joy, and acceptance. “Yoga works as a mirror,” she says, “The way we act or react on the mat is the way we act or react in life. And that to me is one of the biggest beauties of Iyengar yoga.”
A common misconception is that Iyengar is only about alignment. Sol begs to differ: “It’s often oversimplified as merely the ‘yoga of alignment’, ‘yoga of precision’, or ‘yoga with props’, which fails to capture its deeper essence. The true soul of
Iyengar yoga lies in its holistic approach to self-awareness, inner growth, and the integration of body, mind, spirit. Simple postures can embody profound insights. From how we approach the posture, how we enter and exit the asana, how we breathe during and after, awareness of our mind and breath in the different parts of the body, how we deal with pain, shortness of breath, movement restriction, physical and mental limitations, stiffness, etc.”
Where to do Iyengar yoga
Sol Viegas Yoga, solviegasyoga.com
HATHA YOGA
Best for: Beginners and those seeking a gentle introduction to yoga.
Hatha yoga is considered a foundational style that emphasises basic postures and slow transitions. ‘Hatha’ translates to ‘sun’ (ha) and ‘moon’ (tha), symbolising balance. It involves holding poses for a moderate duration and focuses on breathing and alignment. Hatha classes are generally slower-paced and suitable for beginners who want to go back to foundation poses.
Yoga instructor and writer, Rola Tassabehji, teaches Hatha at Conrad Algarve in Quinta do Lago. Rola says: “Early Hatha, which originated in medieval Indian subcontinent, went beyond the physical practice, with a focus on purification rituals such as neti pot and an emphasis on pranayama. As you walk into your next Hatha class, take a moment to appreciate its origin as a purification practice, a union of opposites (sun and moon), and its focus on the breath, to create a holistic experience that goes beyond the physical benefits.”
Where to do Hatha
Ishani Yoga offers hatha yoga classes in Lagoa and Ferragudo, ishani-yoga.com
Yoga with Rola at Conrad Algarve, Quinta do Lago, yogawithrola.com
Atman Centro de Yoga de Loulé, atman.pt Mashala Studio, Albufeira, mashalastudio
Le D.me, Lagos, ledome.pt
The Seed, Lagos, theseed-lagos.com
Transform to Bliss, Burgau, transformtobliss.com
VINYASA YOGA
Best for: Those who enjoy a more dynamic, fluid style.
Vinyasa, sometimes referred to as “flow yoga”, is characterised by smooth transitions between poses synchronised with the breath. It’s widely recognised and resonates with many people seeking
a structured practice. The pace of a Vinyasa class can range from moderate to fast, offering a more cardio-intensive practice. Lulu offers Vinyasa classes at The Dome. She says: “Each practice is a blend of fluidity and flow, breathwork and meditative movement, mindfulness and awareness, flexibility and strengthening. This approach ensures that no two classes are the same, allowing each session to be dynamic and deeply personal.”
Where to do Vinyasa
Lulushanti Yoga Dome, Guia, lulushantiyoga.com
Agni Way, Lagos, agniway.com
Yoga with Rola, Conrad Algarve, Quinta do Lago, yogawithrola.com
Best for: Individuals looking for a structured, disciplined practice.
If you’re looking for a fast-paced practice, with physical intensity, then Ashtanga might be your thing. Be warned, it’s not for the faint hearted or those looking to lie on the mat and not do much. Practitioners follow a specific sequence of postures in a set order. It involves six series, each progressively more challenging. Traditionally, Ashtanga practitioners follow the same sequence every class, which helps in developing muscle memory, strength, and mental discipline. The physical intensity and mental focus required make it suitable for experienced practitioners or those looking for a consistent, powerful practice. Where to do ashtanga
Agni Way, Lagos, agniway.com
Ashtanga House Faro, ashtangahousefaro.com
Transform to Bliss, Burgau, transformtobliss.com
KUNDALINI YOGA
Best for: People seeking a spiritual practice focused on energy and mental clarity.
As a Kundalini practitioner, it’s the yoga style I’m most thankful for discovering. It’s helped me through some challenging times and given me the strength to push through uncomfortable situations. What I often notice about Kundalini practitioners is that they radiate a lightness of being. You can always spot a fellow Kundalini yogi!
Trained Kundalini teacher, Agnieszka
of Kundalini Yoga Algarve, is a glowing example. She holds regular classes in Luz at Tranquility Studio, Salema Eco Camp, and Sagres, and offers 1:1 Kundalini life coaching.
Kundalini yoga combines physical postures, breathwork, chanting and meditation to awaken the ‘kundalini energy,’ which yogic philosophy describes as a dormant energy located at the base of the spine.
“Kundalini is like a medicine book,” says Agnieszka, “where you can choose what you need. Do you need more inner peace? Do you need to balance your nervous system? Do you need more endurance? Are you going through a life crisis? Kundalini can provide you with all these things and more. Everyone receives something different from a class. It’s not a cookie-cutter experience.”
I’ll be the first to admit that you might not fall in love with your first class. Kundalini yoga is a grower, it’ll keep you coming back for more. As Agnieszka puts it, “Kundalini is not something you get into, it pulls you into itself. Kundalini yoga provides an indescribable inner peace. It is the yoga of self-initiation, there is no guru outside of you. All my teachings are about the dance between the ego and the soul.”
Where to do kundalini yoga
Contact Agnieszka on Instagram @kundalini.yoga.algarve or Telegram @kundaliniyogajourneys
YIN YOGA
Best for: Those interested in a meditative, slow-paced practice focused on flexibility and joint health. Yin yoga involves passive poses that target the deep connective tissues, including fascia, ligaments, and tendons. Each pose is held for several minutes to encourage relaxation and enhance flexibility. Yin yoga is often seen as a complementary practice to more active styles, helping to restore balance and calmness. Yin can help improve flexibility, especially in the hips, pelvis, and lower spine. Over time, it can help increase range of motion and joint mobility.
Where to do Yin yoga
Ishani Yoga offers Yin yoga classes in Lagoa and Ferragudo, ishani-yoga.com
The Seed, Lagos, theseed-lagos.com Transform to Bliss, Burgau, transformtobliss.com
RESTORATIVE YOGA
Best for: Stress relief, relaxation, and mental rejuvenation. Restorative yoga is a gentle, supportive practice that focuses on relaxation, restoration, and the releases of mind-body tension. Poses are held for extended periods with the aid of props, allowing the body to fully relax without exertion. This style emphasises stillness, breath, and meditation, making it ideal for stress relief and recovery.
Where to do restorative yoga
Yoga with Rola offers yoga therapyyogawithrola.com
Tranquility Studio & Clinic, Luz, tranquilitystudioclinic.com
PORTUGAL’S THREE KINGS
ar l o Ik i ldbya single bule
K i n g
KingLuis,te shortes
RIDING WITH his family in an open landau in Lisbon, the assassination of King Carlos I resulted in his instant death. A single bullet was fired into his neck leaving his eldest son, Crown Prince Luis, as his successor. The new King fired four shots from his revolver at the assassins but almost simultaneously he was wounded by two bullets that entered his chest and skull; he was still alive but bleeding profusely. The driver of the landau dashed the family to the Naval Infirmary but within 20 minutes of their arrival, King Luis was dead. His younger brother Manuel, now the heir apparent, became the country’s King.
The death of King Luis set him apart as Europe’s shortest reigning monarch. He was on the verge of celebrating his 21st birthday and had been educated to prepare him for the role of sovereign. His marriage was already planned to his cousin Princess Patricia of Connaught, a granddaughter of Queen Victoria and considered to be one of the most beautiful and eligible royal princesses in Europe.
Meanwhile, Manuel, no less intelligent than Luis, was, like many other younger royal brothers, living a more-worldly lifestyle. His affair with the French actress and showgirl, Gaby Deslys, had been kept out of the Portuguese press but was well-known in France. Now as King, the need to be discreet was imperative.
His first official act was to ask for the resignation of the Prime Minister who had provided reassurance that the royal family was no longer under threat from dissident republicans. Having banished two of their leaders, he said the danger posed by rebels had been quashed. Having lost his father and his brother, King Manuel questioned the Prime Minister’s competence.
He wanted to know why his father had been informed that it was safe for the family to return to Lisbon from the security of their country palace in Vila Viçosa. Why had no armed guards been arranged for them when they arrived on the quayside? Why had they been provided with an open landau rather than a more secure closed coach? Why had the Prime Minister been so sure the republican movement had been suppressed? There were no satisfactory answers and he was replaced by a coalition government presided over by an independent politician.
Given the tragic circumstances and Manuel’s youthful age – he was only 18 – he received a great deal of sympathy and support. He travelled the country and was warmly welcomed by his people. He visited France and Britain where sincere condolences were expressed and, it is said, his dalliance with Gaby Deslys resumed.
Trying to get to grips with his government was too much to expect from an inexperienced King. It was seemingly impossible for him to prove his worth and seven governments were appointed and dismissed in quick succession. In the election of August 1910, the Republicans gained 14 seats, and after more than two years of instability no one doubted that some sort of takeover was inevitable.
The inevitable
It came on 4 October 1910 when the King was playing bridge inside the Palace of Necessidades. Two Portuguese cruisers anchored in the River Tagus, and manned by revolutionary sailors began to
bombard the building with their cannons. The forces at the palace were few in numbers and the King fled to the better defended palace in Mafra with his mother and grandmother.
By now there were numerous revolutionary groups spread across the countryside and it became obvious that the royal family should leave the country. Ten kilometres away the Royal Yacht Amélia was anchored in Ericeira and this was seen as a solution to their predicament.
By now the First Portuguese Republic had been declared and on its journey the Amélia avoided every Portuguese port. If it landed, the King almost certainly would have been arrested. Sailing onwards to Gibraltar the Royal Yacht Victoria and Albert was sent to collect them by their British relatives. Before departing for England, King Manuel sent a final letter expressing his loyalty to the Portuguese public, saying:
“I have the conviction of having always fulfilled my duties as King in all circumstances and of having put my heart and my life to the service of our Country. I hope that it, convinced of my rights and my dedication, will recognise this. Viva Portugal!”
D. Manuel II
As a final act he ordered that the Amélia, property of the Portuguese state, should be returned to Lisbon.
One small consolation for Manuel was the opportunity to be reunited with Gaby Deslys who was appearing on stage in London. To the annoyance of the British royal family, the couple resumed their passionate affair and in the short term this became a scandal that tainted his reputation.
Coming to life
These events are the subject of the new play Royal Tea to be staged next month at Quinta da Borboleta in Almancil, performed by the Random Players, portraying characters from the time - King Manuel, Gaby Deslys, Queen Mary of Teck, Isadora Duncan, Anna Pavlova and Harry Selfridge. The script includes adult themes, plenty of laughter, singing and dancing, and is written entirely in rhyme by Carolyn Kain. Shows include afternoon tea, cakes and a glass of Portuguese bubbles!
Dates: Saturday 18 January, 25 January and 1 February, 15h00. Tickets: €15*
To reserve a table: 963 812 846 / 918 050 085
*€2,50 from each ticket and voluntary donations (in envelopes on the tables) will be donated to local charity, Associação Algarve Families in Need, algarvefamiliesinneed@hotmail.com
PETER KAIN
Even numbers
FRED BOS
NO. 10
São Brás de Alportel, October 2024
Camera: Canon 80D ISO 100 F6.3 1/250
CS: “This engaging photograph captures the charm of urban architecture with a touch of rustic appeal. The juxtaposition of the bold red door with number 10 against the clean lines of the adjacent white wall and green-framed door creates a striking contrast, both in colour and texture. The tree on the right side of the frame softens the architectural elements, adding an inviting sense of life to the scene. The composition is thoughtfully balanced, with the chimney and wires above adding subtle details that enrich the narrative.”
Playing the numbers game, each of this month’s winning images were chosen from a large number of members’ submissions by guest judge Carly Sullens (carlysullens.com), a hugely-respected fine art photography talent who sits on several committees in the US for the International Photography Hall of Fame
NIGEL MOORE
ABSTRACT 4
Loulé, October 2024
Camera: Samsung S23
CS: “This is a brilliant take on the theme of numbers. The repetition of horizontal and vertical lines, contrasted by the diagonal ascent of the staircase, establishes a sense of rhythm and balance. The muted shades of grey and soft blues enhance the minimalist feel and the lighting is soft yet sufficient to define the forms and accentuate the subtle tonal differences on the walls and steps. This image skillfully transforms an ordinary scene into an abstract visual study.”
CS: “This photograph captures a visually engaging perspective of a row of shops, which aligns well with the number challenge. The repetition of the circular signs labelled with their corresponding numbers creates a rhythmic pattern that draws the viewer’s eye along the depth of the corridor. The subdued colours and soft natural light enhance the serene, almost contemplative atmosphere, while the two men seated in conversation add a touch of human warmth and activity to the scene.”
Paderne, June 2024
Camera: iPhone 15 Pro Max
CS: “Intricate details and patterns, the choice of black and white emphasizes the textures, shadows, and unique imperfections on each cork while simplifying the composition to focus on form. It is as though each cork holds a story or a moment in time, transforming an everyday object into a fascinating study in monochrome.”
HEIDI BECK
BIRDIE AT THE 17TH
QdL, January 2019
Camera: Fuji XT2
CS: “The focus on the bird creates a charming interaction between nature and the golfing environment. The image is not only well framed but also exudes a lighthearted mood, blending humour, simplicity, and technical skill, making it both engaging and memorable.”
JAN TROMP
Winter in the Algarve has become my favourite time of the year, walking on empty beaches, going to bed early, recharging and reflecting.
I have realised that the relationship I have with my customers is what gives me energy and makes me happy.
When familiar faces walk into my shop and conversation flows naturally, they stop being customers and start becoming friends.
Thank you for your support and friendship. I wish you all a Wonderful Christmas and a Happy New Year!
HOMES: Rua das Lojas, Rua 5 de Outubro nº 68 .
Fa SH iO n and accESSOR i ES: Rua José Fernandes Guerreiro, nº39
Pressies, when there’s no limit
HOW GENEROUS DO YOU EXPECT YOUR CHRISTMAS BONUS TO BE? IF YOU HAVE HAD A STONKING YEAR, HERE ARE SOME GADGETS YOU MIGHT LIKE TO SPEND SOME SERIOUS LOOT ON. BUT OF COURSE, YOU COULD TREAT THAT SPECIAL SOMEONE TO AN UNFORGETABLY LAVISH GIFT
Words: CHRIS PARTRIDGE
Asomething you could spend mountains of dosh on if you wanted true high fidelity with thumping bass and crisp upper registers. Probably the best headphones on the market today are the Bang and Olufsen Beoplay H100 bins from the revered Danish style icons.
The headphones have ten studioquality microphones to regulate the noise cancelling system, which can be turned up and down by a real physical knob, from no effect at all to putting-your-head-in-a-soundproof-box levels. They automatically pause play when you take them off.
The styling is classic, the build quality superb and they are amazingly comfortable. And, of course, the sound is superbaccurate, rich and sparkling. The sort of sound you used to get only from studio monitor. The price is €1,499,00 at bang-olufsen.com
If you want a more discreet listening experience than a massive pair of headphones, take a look at the Sony WF-1000XM5 earbuds, which fit neatly in the ear and don’t look like hearing aids at all.
Above: Bang and Olufsen bins for perfectly controlled sound. Left: the Mous phone case; the Truly Exquisite rose gold case
Known for outstanding noise cancellation and sound quality, these earbuds are designed to deliver a distraction-free audio experience with a sleek design (now including an attractive Smoke Pink colour), making them a popular choice among frequent travellers. €249, available at Worten.
Headphones or earbuds are great for watching the telly but that’s not very sociable so why not get a really good soundbar? The Sennheiser Ambeo Soundbar Max is a beast, impressively large and very heavy. But the physicality is key to its superb sound, both for movies and music.
The surround-sound performance is sensational, bouncing audio effects round a room and generating earth shattering oomph.
There is lots of bass, but if you want to complete the system you can buy a matching woofer. €1,899 at sennheiser-hearing.com/pt
As for the television itself, the bigger the better, naturally. After all, what is the point of 8K Ultra resolution if you don’t show it off on a massive set?
The Samsung QN990C TV has a humongous 98in screen featuring microscopic light-emitting diodes (LEDs) that give total control over light and dark. The result is an image so realistic you can almost smell it. Nature films never looked so natural.
The refresh rate is exceptional, up to 144Hz, making it an excellent screen for games, and indeed it has the Xbox app built in. And, of course, it features artificial intelligence, though this is unlikely to improve the intellectual level of the programming. If you have the room, and the budget, the QN990C is €37,949, at samsung.com
The hot trend in smartphones right now is
The hot trend in smartphones right now is foldables, which fold out like a book so they can work as a phone or a tablet
foldables, which fold out like a book so they can work as a phone or a tablet. The current leader in the folding phone stakes is Google’s Pixel 9 Pro Fold, with the largest, brightest screen and the best cameras. The main screen is 8in in diameter, which is iPad mini sort of size, and the front screen is 6.3in, which is standard for a top of the range blower.
The battery life is surprisingly good seeing as it has to power two massive screens, the mechanical hinge is durable and the finish classy. And, of course, it has AI, courtesy of Google’s new Gemini assistant. Its ‘circle to search’ feature is particularly impressive. If you want to know what something is, just draw a ring round it and it will search for it. Very clever.
The Pixel 9 Pro Fold is available at google.com from €1,329, and at FNAC.
Whatever smartphone you sport, you will need a nice case. My favourite case brand is Mous, partly because they are British but mainly because their cases provide total protection with style. A case for the Pixel Pro Fold costs €40.65 from amazon.es, for example, but you can choose a case for pretty much any phone, and backpacks for tablets and laptops, too. See eu.mous.co for the full range.
If, on the other hand, you want a phone case that shrieks good taste and sophistication, take a look at the Truly Exquisite Rose Gold iPhone case. The case is plated in real gold, which looks fantabulosa as you can imagine, but has the slight disadvantage that wireless charging won’t work. But that is not the point – the point is to spaff €1,928.76 on a phone case you can confidently display to your envious friends and family. See trulyexquisite.co.uk for details; international shipping is free – phew.
Left to right: Google’s Pixel 9 Pro Fold; Sony WF-1000XM5 ear buds; the 98in Samsung QN990C TV
s 60 s
BOB GELDOF
Bob Geldof’s first taste of fame came in the 1970s when he was lead singer and songwriter for the Irish band, The Boomtown Rats. He attracted controversy even then, basing the band’s hit song I Don’t Like Mondays on a news story from the USA about a school shooting. His life changed forever, though, in 1984, when his then-girlfriend, TV presenter Paula Yates, drew his attention to a TV News report about famine in Ethiopia.
Hoping to raise some money, he got his pop star friends together and with Midge Ure, wrote a song called Do They Know It’s Christmas? - even standing up to the then-PM Margaret Thatcher to ensure that ALL profits would go to famine relief. The record topped the charts and became the biggest-selling UK single of all time. From then on, Bob became as well known for his political activism as he was for his music. That song was followed by an even more extraordinary fund-raiser, the Live Aid concert of 1985, in both London and Philadelphia, which raised around £150,000,000. Since then – and after Live 8 in 2005 – he has continued to campaign for debt relief in the developing world, fathers’ rights, and against the war in Ukraine. He was awarded an honorary knighthood by the late Queen Elizabeth. His first wife Paula sadly died in 2000 and his daughter Peaches in 2014. He and his wife Jeanne Marine now live in South London and we can be sure we’ll be hearing more from him; as he says “It’s not in my nature to shut up!”
Where are they now?
WHEN YOU MAKE IT BIG, WHEN YOU HAVE SOMETHING TO SAY, SOMETHING TO SHOW, EVEN DECADES LATER PEOPLE ARE CURIOUS ABOUT WHERE YOU MOVED ON TO IN YOUR LATER YEARS. WE ’ VE TRACKED DOWN SOME WHO NEVER FAILED TO MAKE AN IMPRESSION
Words: JILL ECKERSLEY
SIR GEOFF HURST
“They think it’s all over…it is now!” Probably the most famous piece of football commentary of all time, when the BBC’s Kenneth Wolstenholme celebrated the winning goal in the 1966 World Cup final. That goal – and two others – was scored by Sir Geoff Hurst, who is now the last survivor of the legendary Cup-winning team. Born in Lancashire, his family moved to Essex when he was a child. His father was also a footballer but the young Geoff was equally keen on cricket. However, he began his footballing career with West Ham, where he scored 242 goals in 500 appearances. He later played for Stoke City and West Bromwich Albion, and was coach and manager in the USA, Ireland and the UK, including a spell managing Chelsea. However, his reputation really rests on his membership of the 1966 England team. The score against West Germany was 2 - 2 at full time, and the entire country held its breath until he scored a controversial third goal…and then tore down the pitch to score the winner. The day after the Final, the Press descended on the hero’s home… to find him mowing the lawn! He became an MBE in 1977 and was knighted in 1988. He lives in Cheltenham and is currently on a UK theatre tour until the Spring of 2025, talking about his career.
1900s
THE WOMEN’S INSTITUTE
The very first Women’s Institute was set in Ontario, Canada, in the early years of the last century, with the aim of helping isolated rural wives, enabling them to get together, learn from one another and make friends. ‘Making friends and making a difference’ has been part of the Women’s Institute mission statement ever since. In the UK, the National Federation was founded in 1915, in order, as they said at the time, to ‘give women a voice and be a force for good in our communities.’
At first it was based in the countryside, encouraging women to produce more food to feed the country during World War One. It also campaigned on all issues involving women, no doubt influenced by the emerging Suffragette movement. Anything to do with women’s lives, from inadequate housing to childcare, was part of their remit.
In the Second World War, the WI helped organise the evacuation of city children to the countryside, as well as focusing on food production in the years of rationing. It also began to demand equal pay for equal work.
“Making friends and making a difference” has long been part of the Women’s Institute mission statement
In the Fifties, the WI helped form the Keep Britain Tidy anti-litter campaign. In the Sixties, the WI celebrated its Golden Jubilee with a garden party at Buckingham Palace and funds were raised for Freedom from Hunger. Later in the last century the WI became involved in recycling campaigns and also the issues raised by HIV infection. The new Millennium saw campaigns against waste and projects aimed at improving life in women’s prisons.
The WI has never lost sight of its original aim of bringing women together… and yes, there are similar groups here in Portugal today.
60s
THE MUPPETS
How to describe The Muppets? A children’s TV show that adults could enjoy too, with puppet characters who became international icons. Who could forget doleful Kermit the Frog, flirtatious Miss Piggy, well-meaning Fozzie Bear and the others? Celebrities of the time lined up for the honour of appearing on The Muppet Show or taking a cameo role in one of the Muppet movies.
The Muppets were created by Jim Henson in the mid-50s and were part of the US kiddies’ TV show Sesame Street in the 60s. At first, the US networks were reluctant to screen The Muppet Show itself but in the UK, Sir Lew Grade agreed to produce it for ATV.
At first all the parts were played by Jim Henson and his wife but as the show’s popularity grew, a team was recruited; megastars like Julie Andrews and Shirley Bassey were delighted to sing along with the Muppets.
During the 70s and 80s there were Muppet movies which won awards from the US Film Institute, the Hollywood Walk of Fame and the Library of Congress.
Sadly, Jim Henson died in 1990. There is a plaque in his memory on the wall of his former home in Hampstead, London. His company was sold to Disney in 2004 and has continued to produce successful movies and TV shows, with the characters appearing at Academy Awards ceremonies and even on US Stamps – as well as having their own social media platforms.
PINETREES
CENTRO HÍPICO | RIDING CENTRE
Christmas and birthday present vouchers make lovely gifts for tuition or rides out in the forest, from €40 to €400. Riding gear, insurance and tax are all included in the prices.
Pinetrees from €25 polos or eeces, to €35
VOUCHERS MAKE PERFECT XMAS GIFTS
Address: Rua
For Coffee Lovers
Café bean17, in the Mercado of Loulé , is a gem – not only because of the houseroasted espresso or cappuccino or the organic kombucha or the wonderful home-baked cakes, but also for the freshly roasted organic arabica coffee beans from Peru and Ethiopia that you can buy. And the new SAGE espressomachine and Eureka coffee-grinders are available at a discount in the bean17 roastery. Make an appointment to see them with Ilona in the café or email jmtromp@mac.com.
Candido dos Reis, 243, Tavira, 8800-318 (Next door to the Gran Call: 962 379 584 Email: decor@byoliveira.com @ OliveiraDecor @ Oliveirafurniture
The time is right to treat certain veins
VARICOSE VEINS, SPIDER VEINS, AND ASSOCIATED CONDITIONS CAN LEAD TO PAIN, AND TO SOME PEOPLE, EMBARRASSMENT. BUT THANKS TO THE WORK OF CONSULTANT ANTONIO L. BAPTISTA AT THE FAMILY MEDICAL CENTRES, PROCEDURES ARE AVAILABLE RIGHT NOWTHAT PRODUCE THE BEST RESULTS
VARICOSE VEINS and venous chronic disease are a common condition that affects millions of people worldwide. The figures for those with this condition in western Europe is surprising: it is estimated that some 50% of females and 20% of males have different degrees of chronic venous disease, which is characterised by swollen twisted veins primarily in the legs, which can lead to pain, discomfort and serious health issues if left untreated.
However, there are effective prevention strategies and minimally invasive treatments available today that can deal with the problem. But first, let’s look at the causes of the condition.
with less discomfort for the patients.
Autumn and winter are the seasons regarded as the most ideal for treatment, so right now is the time to consider what is available and why.
The recovery period for treatments such as sclerotherapy or laser may require downtime, and winter allows patients to recover without the discomfort that hot weather can cause.
Cooler temperatures are regarded as the most ideal for treatment, so right now is the time to consider what is available
UNDERSTANDING THE VENOUS DISEASE
Varicose veins occur when veins become enlarged and overfilled with blood. This can happen as the result of thin and weakened valves in the veins which cause blood to pool, rather than circulate.
Risk factors include genetics, age, obesity, prolonged sitting or standing, hormonal changes like pregnancy or menopause. And symptoms either include itching, heaviness or fatigue in the legs, visible swollen and sometimes painful veins and, in more advanced stages of the condition, skin changes, phlebitis or ulcers.
Scientific research from the team at IPCA / University of Minho, based on artificial intelligence and recently published in Nature Magazine, demonstrates what is positive, and possible with this new approach in which minimally invasive treatments can be used
Also, cooler temperatures can help minimise swelling making it easier to evaluate the results. And then there is the clothing choices: patients may prefer to wear long pants or skirts and layers during colder months not only for warmth but to help conceal any posttreatment bruising or redness.
Varicose veins and telangiectasis can significantly impact the quality of life, but thanks to treatments available, they can be dealt with.
ANTÓNIO L. BAPTISTA
Antonio Baptista is a Cardiovascular Consultant, a post-Graduation Professor at UAH Madrid and has conducted Research at IPCA, University of Minho. Widely regarded as an expert in the field of venous disease, he can be consulted at the Family Medical Centres in Vale do Lobo and Quinta do Lago.
Manuela, a German beautician with 30-years experience, offers the latest technologies at her Almancil salon, including:
Your money
RICARDO CHAVES OF ALL FINANCE MATTERS IS HERE TO HELP PEOPLE UNDERSTAND WHAT IS ALLOWABLE – AND NOT – WHEN IT COMES TO FINANCIAL MATTERS IN PORTUGAL. AFM EXPERTS ARE THERE TO ADVISE YOU ON THE BEST WAYS OF DEALING WITH BOTH BUSINESS AND PERSONAL TAX MATTERS TO ENSURE YOU ARE IN THE BEST POSSIBLE POSITION
QThe gifts I buy clients for Christmas – and also office staff and home staff like the maid – are they fully chargeable to tax and do I just need receipts with my NIF? Is there any limit to what I can spend on these gifts?
In Portugal, Christmas gifts to employees, such as gift vouchers or Christmas hampers, are considered benefit in kind and, therefore, subject to IRS as employment income. These gifts must be included in the employees’ pay slips. In terms of corporate tax, these gifts are considered deductible expenses, provided you offer these to all the employees.
If you offer gifts to suppliers, you also need to pay attention to the tax implications. Usually, companies offer bottles of wine, chocolates, pens, diaries, or other similar items, with a unit value equal to or less than €50 and whose total annual value does not exceed 0.5% of the turnover of the previous calendar year, otherwise the company must repay any VAT that was deducted on the purchase of the items in question.
QIs everything ordered online from abroad subject to customs inspection and duty when it arrives here? Should one be requesting any particular paperwork when placing an order with, say, an American or Far East supplier?
Since July 2021, all purchases entering Portugal, regardless of their value and the date of purchase, are subject to the payment of VAT and respective customs clearance. This means that even small purchases will be inspected and may incur VAT and customs duties, although there is a simplified customs process for purchases of up to €150.
Any non-EU supplier needs to be registered at the One Stop Shop (OSS) in Portugal. This system simplifies the process by allowing suppliers to declare and pay VAT through a single electronic portal, rather than having to register for VAT in each EU member state where they sell goods.
This way, the supplier is responsible for collecting and remitting the VAT to the Portuguese tax authorities, which can help streamline the process for both the supplier and
the customer. However, it’s still important to ensure that all necessary paperwork is in order, to avoid any potential issues with customs clearance, mainly the invoice that you received when purchasing the item online.
If you are being contacted by customs, it might be because the supplier is not yet registered on the OSS. To avoid risks, it’s advisable to place orders only in the major web portals otherwise, as we say in Portugal, “cheap things may become expensive” (o barato sai caro).
QWith a new government in the UK, which is delivering unhappy surprises one after the other and nothing in line with their promises before they were elected, what should we be doing as NHR here but with pensions in the UK and also income from property rentals there?
Should we, for example, move pensions to Portugal, including State Pensions, and what about income from rentals, which currently go into a UK bank account?
I am very concerned and need direction on what is best – and possible.
The NHR status is being revoked at the end of 2024, but under certain conditions it is still available if you register your tax residency before the end of this year.
In Portugal, you are not taxed on the remittance of funds. However, you are taxed on your worldwide income each year. If you have NHR status, any rentals in the UK will be taxed solely in the UK. If you don’t have NHR status, the tax paid in Portugal is 25% of the net rental income, but you can deduct the tax paid in the UK. So, in Portugal, you will only pay the difference.
Your State Pensions will be taxed at the progressive tax rates in Portugal.
However, with regard to private pensions, it is important to ascertain first who made the contributions to the pension scheme. If you receive a pension of €10,000, 85% is excluded and only 15% is taxed.
This leads to an effective tax rate between 2% and 7.2%. So, with or without NHR, Portugal can still offer very competitive tax options for retirement.
Send questions you may have to info@afm.tax for possible inclusion in AlgarvePLUS.
To consult directly with the experts at AFM, email info@afm.tax
REMOVALS
REMOVALS
• Weekly removal service to and from the UK, Portugal and Malaga, Spain
STORAGE
• Weekly removal service to and from the UK, Portugal and Malaga, Spain
• Full or part packing and wrapping service
STORAGE
• Storage warehouses located in the UK, Algarve, Lisbon and Malaga, Spain
• Storage warehouses located in the UK, Algarve, Lisbon and Malaga, Spain
• Shop online with any furniture retailer and have your items delivered the following week
• Shop online with any furniture retailer have your items delivered the following
• Full or part packing and wrapping service
• Fully insured, secure and alarmed
• Fully insured, secure and alarmed
• One/multiple items of furniture
• One/multiple items of furniture
• One box to full house removals
• One box to full house removals
• Villa to villa moves within the Algarve
• Storage available for long or short term
• Villa to villa moves within the Algarve
• Storage available for long or short term
• All customs paperwork and procedures taken care by our in house customs experts
QI recently ordered a garden shed and paid the full price at the time. The company had my full address details. I have now been told that I will be charged not only for delivery, but also for putting it together before I receive it (the figure quoted is almost the same as the original cost). I am angry and have asked for my money back. Naturally, I got nowhere.
AAdditional delivery and assembly fees that are not detailed when you made the purchase are deemed as illegal under Portuguese law and you have grounds to challenge them.
Under EU law you are granted the Right to Withdrawal within 14 days of the delivery; the vendor is not entitled to apply any penalty or additional costs. Whether the purchase was made online, or by a method of remote payment, the vendor is in breach of the law if the refund is refused.
You can also take your case to the Portuguese Consumer Protection Association – DECO – which will assist you in different ways. If you file a complaint, they can mediate the matter or provide legal advice. (deco.proteste.pt/ )
All businesses in Portugal are legally obliged to have a Complaint Book – Livro de Reclamações – and any client can register a complaint either in the physical book or online at livroreclamacoes.pt/Inicio/ By registering the complaint, the Authority for Food and Economic Safety –ASAE – will be informed (www.asae.gov. pt/ ). This authority oversees commercial practices in Portugal, and has different
GOING LEGAL
LEGAL EXPERTS NELSON RAMOS AND ROBERTA RAMOS WHO, TOGETHER WITH THEIR SPECIALIST TEAM AT RAMOS & ASSOCIADOS IN ALMANCIL, ADVISE CLIENTS ON FARREACHING QUESTIONS. THIS MONTH, THEY TALK ABOUT THE IMPORTANCE OF INSISTENCE ON CONSUMER RIGHTS
acting powers, including the application of fines to companies that fail to comply with the law.
You can also make contact with a Small Claims Court, Julgados de Paz (www. conselhodosjulgadosdepaz.com.pt/ ) if the value is up to €15,000.00. The Julgados de Paz have full judicial powers of a court, acting within a simplified legal framework in which you can represent yourself, without resourcing to a lawyer. However, there aren’t Small Claims Court all over the country, so you need to check appropriate municipalities in link above.
A lawyer can always help and often should be the first step to take, as when you consult a lawyer, who is a qualified legal professional, he or she can direct and advise you as to the best course of action.
One can always resort to a full court case, which is obviously more costly and takes longer, but the decision to proceed with that option depends on the amount of the damages, and the availability of other less expensive legal remedies, if available and appropriate.
We are of the opinion that consumers must stand for their rights – the bigger the pressure on businesses to supply quality services and goods, the better result can be achieved, and that is in everyone’s interest.
AQIs there a transitional regime after the end of NHR?
The NHR regime was revoked by the 2024 State Budget, with effect from 1 January. Here is a summary of the transitional provisions that allow for the
application of NHR beyond that date.
The regime continues to be applicable until the end of the tenth consecutive year from the registration as NHR. You must comply with the one of following requirements:
Be registered with the Tax Authority on 1 January 2024, within the ten-year period; Meet the conditions for qualification as NHR by 31 December 2023 and have submitted the application by 31 2024.
The NHR regime is also applicable to those who become residents for tax purposes by 31 December 2024 and apply by 31 March 2025 (with effect in 2024). They must comply with the following requirements:
Promise of, or employment contract; Rental, reservation or promissory contract, or other that grants the use of a dwelling, signed by 10 October 2023;
Dependents enrolled in school in Portugal by 10 October 2023;
Visa or residence permit valid until 31 December 2023;
Application for a visa or residence permit initiated by 31 December 2023.
Household members can benefit from the NHR. If you become a resident by 31 December 2024, they must register with the TA, change their tax residence, and register for NHR.
If the application for NHR relating to 2024 is submitted and approved after 31 March 2025, taxation as an NHR will be applied from the year in which the registration is made, up to ten years.
Email questions for Ramos Associados to martin@algarveplusmagazine.com
Stall orders
IT ’ S THAT MAGICAL TIME OF YEAR, WHEN CHRISTMAS CAROLS ARE PIPED INTO EVERY SHOPPING STREET, COLOURFUL LIGHTS TWINKLE WHEN THE SUN SETS AND THE SMELL OF HOT CHOCOLATE AND GINGERBREAD IS ALL AROUND. SUPERCHARGE YOUR HOLIDAY SPIRIT, AND HEAD TO ONE – OR ALL – OF THE LOCAL SEASONAL MARKETS. THESE ARE JUST A FEW OF THE TREATS AWAITING...
Words: LAURA SHEA
VILA VITA PARC
For the Christmas season Vila Vita Parc is staging Hollywoodparc, The Golden Age festivities. Celebrating the very best of glitz and glamour from the early days of cinema, the luxury Porches resort will be providing a host of fun things for everyone to enjoy. Activities and events are planned for the kiddies, including a workshop where they can make decorations to take home. There’s a stunning market – a shopping extravaganza in the Piazetta where you’ll find designer-driven gift ideas, and the scent of glühwein will fill the air.
20-22 December
QUINTA SHOPPING
Sponsored this year by EBFT – Elaine Bain Family Trust – the one-day fair features 60 exhibitors so you’re certain to find those special gifts – porcelain, cork, fabrics, chocolates, liqueurs and traditional
cakes, essential oils and soaps, handmade jewellery and seasonal decorations. Santa will arrive at noon and there are great photo opportunities. 7 December
PORTIMÃO
If you fancy a real party atmosphere, give Portimão a go. The town will be providing a Christmas train to ride, displays of nativity scenes, festive light decorations, parades, shows, evening concerts, alongside food, drink and gift sellers. Christmas villages with snow-covered ground make for the perfect backdrop for a festive family snap! 1 December–6 January
CARVOEIRO CHRISTMAS MARKET
To really make the most of an Algarvean Christmas, then why not visit a festive gathering with a view of a picture-perfect beach? This market offers extra treats such as face painting, performers and a Santa
Claus parade which is great fun. The market is due to be held in the square at the bottom of town and there will be a tourist train running if you don’t fancy the long walk back up the hill to the car parks! Make the most of the views by grabbing some food and drink from one of the many traditional sellers, and sit on the sand and listen to the combination of soothing waves and Christmas music. 19-21 December
MONCHIQUE
Known for breathtaking views of mountainous countryside, Monchique holds a traditionally quaint Christmas market throughout December on certain days. Showcasing the best of the region, here you will find stunning produce, homemade gifts such as jams, cakes and sauces and possibly the best array of medronho. Hailed as the birthplace of the Portuguese firewater, the Monchique countryside has been home to generations of locals who specialise in the picking and distilling of the fruit. You can even visit Casa do Medronho if you wish to learn more about this ancient cultural art. At the Christmas market you will have the opportunity to sample various flavours, with each seller having their own special take
on the drink. One tip if it is your first time partaking in medronho, is to go slowly! The children can visit Santa, and there are rides and live music, and plenty of food and hot chocolate. 13–22 December
LAGOS
Lagos takes Christmas celebrations very seriously. The central square, Praça do Infante, is transformed for the month of December and provides a host of things for people of all ages to enjoy. Stalls selling traditional crafts, Christmas ornaments and thoughtful gifts are in abundance, and if you fancy getting your skates on, there is an ecological ice rink in place. You can also take the kids to Santa in his grotto, and then indulge in some local tasty treats.
1 December–6 January
FARO
The Mercado de Natal da Baixa in Faro boasts impressive light displays and nativity scenes outside the churches. As sweets and pastries are so important here at this time of the year especially, be sure to look in every pastelaria you pass as their window displays
OTHER OPTIONS
For a more modern experience, head to Vilamoura harbour for a chic and trendy Christmas market, with a few stalls dotted along the walkway. If you need to do some serious holiday shopping and get those gifts sorted, head to one of the big shopping malls – Mar Shopping in Loulé, Forum Algarve in Faro, Algarve Shopping in Guia, Tavira Plaza – yes, in Tavira – and Aqua in Portimão. There’ll be lots of special Christmas features to enjoy.
take on a seasonal theme. Take home a fruitfilled, sugary Bolo Rei in honour of the three wise men, and if you come across a seller offering freshly cooked sonhos, then grab a bag of these delicious doughnut balls dusted with cinnamon and sugar.
Every weekend in December
LOULÉ
December in Loulé offers so much and is the ideal place to buy delicious gifts for Christmas hampers. The municipal market is your one-stop shop for all things local and homemade. Grab a pot of plum and port jam, a bottle of ginjinha and a box of broas de natal, the seasonal biscuit of Christmas that combines sweet potatoes, sugar and spices. Head to Loulé’s old town for the visual delights of the market, and if previous years are anything to go by there will be a carousel, street performances and a parade to welcome Santa and his helpers to the town. Don’t miss the view of the castle walls adorned with lights once the sun goes down.
1 December–6 January
PADERNE FESTIVAL
For something completely different, visit the Paderne Medieval Festival, when the town becomes a bustling and incredibly detailed journey back in time to the 14th century. You can spend hours browsing the stalls with unique and fun gifts, meet the sellers serving up delicious foody treats and witness the jousting tournament for a real thrill. The musicians, craftsmen, knights and street performers bring the past to life. The noise and colour dazzle.
28 December–1 January
TAVIRA
This event is part of a broader festive celebration that includes light displays, live music, and special events throughout December. The market offers a range of local products and handmade gifts. Visit tavira.pt for details.
Take your pick of goods made by local artisans, and seasonal foods and drinks
Set in a beautiful setting with an adjacent lifestyle and furniture shop, enjoy thin-crust pizzas, homemade pastas, and fresh salads from our very own garden.
Kitchen: open daily from 12h -23h for dining, takeaway and delivery. Shop: open Mon-Sat 10h-23h & Sun 13h-23h
PAULINE HANUISE
Loulé Studio visit on request 920 546 908 Pauline.hanuise@gmail.com Paulinehart.com
Sun, 3D abstract, mixed media on canvas, 120x120cm
Family Reunion, acrylic, oil and charcoal on canvas. 130x 160cm
SNIZ
Aderita Artistic Space Vale do Lobo Shopping, 912 186 868 aderita.artisticspace@gmail.com artisticspace.pt 6-28 December
Works from the artist who participated in painting the wall in front of the Almancil sports centre
BALSA, ROMAN CITY
Municipal Museum Palácio da Galeria, Tavira 281 320 545/568, museumtavira@cm-tavira.pt
Until 25 January 2025
A journey of 2,000 years to the time when Tavira, the capital of a Roman municipality, flourished, next to the banks of the Ria Formosa. Throughout en rooms, around 100 pieces from various national museums will be on show. Fascinating.
MUSIC
República 14, Olhão
republica14.pt, Reservas@republica14.pt
NOTE: República 14 will be closed from 15 December to 7 January
7 December, 19h00 and 21h30
FRUTOS MADUROS
Featuring Pedro Santos on accordion and João Pedro Silva on saxophone, joined by the voice of Rita Maria. Drawing from the works of Portuguese jazz composers such as Mário Laginha, Bernardo Sassetti, Daniel Bernardes, and Lino Guerreiro, Frutos Maduros explores stylistic intersections and new interpretations of these composers’ music. A fresh sound is born – sometimes serene, sometimes exuberant.
14 December, 19h00 and 21h30
ROUGE MANOUCHE This Gypsy Jazz group based in the Algarve delivers a high-energy and rhythmically
DANIEL KEMISH
Teatro Lethes, Faro 7 December, 21h00
This night is always one of the highlights of Kemish’s touring year, and every time it’s a new and different concept. “Faro is my home and I love to push myself to create new ideas here,” he says.
vibrant swing inspired by Manouche rhythms and melodies with influences from American Jazz, all set in the aura of 1930s Paris. The group features Betty Martins on vocals and viola, João Campos Palma on accordion, and Luis Fialho on guitar. In this concert, they present a programme of iconic composers including Duke Ellington and Cole Porter and are joined by a special guest, Andalusian guitarist, Mário Pousada.
ORQUESTRA DO ALGARVE
Igreja de São Pedro do Mar Quarteira 15 December, 16h00 Free entrance
Celebrate the magic of Christmas through music in an exceptional programme that combines classic pieces with new contemporary versions. And you can join in and sing along with the likes of Hark! The Herald Angels Sing, White Christmas and Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas.
Amigos de Música
Os Agostos, Santa Bárbara de Nexe, amigosdemusica.org 3 and 5 December, 19h00
Ukrainian pianist Artem Yasynskyy will play works by Schubert, Mozart, Grieg and Szymanovski on 3 December, and Bach, Debussy and Ravel, plus some special surprises by Yasynskyy himself on the 5th.
Gates open at 18h00 and wine, fruit juices and canapés will be served. Visit the website for more information and to book and osagostos. com for venue information and directions.
Entry donation including refreshments is €30pp for guests and non-members.
The Amigos de Musica
is an international group of around 120 members who stage musical activities by internationally-renowned musicians, and also sponsor young Portuguese musicians. It is a non-profit organisation and celebrated its 30th anniversary in 2021. For membership enquiries contact helga.hampton@gmail.com
You know the story – Clara and her family have Christmas Eve dinner. The gifts are opened and a nutcracker doll stands out. Clara falls asleep and in her dream the dolls come to life and the Nutcracker becomes a handsome Prince. But the Rat Queen, furious at not having been invited, provokes all the dolls and tries to kill the Prince...
EXPERIENCES
Vale do Lobo valedolobo.com
Fight Club Tuesdays, 10h00, Fitness Centre
HIIT Wednesdays, 09h00, Fitness Centre Cross Training, Saturdays, 10h00, Fitness Centre
Morning Yoga Tuesday 17 December, 10h00, Well Social Padel Challenge, Fridays, 18h30, Tennis Academy Astronomical Observation
14 December, 19h30–21h30
Parque do Golfe
Be ready for an amazing celestial experience!
Following a short lecture, explore the universe with a large motorized telescope. You’ll have the unique opportunity to witness Saturn’s breathtaking rings, Jupiter with its four Galilean moons, and, of course, our magnificent natural satellite, the Moon. You’ll go deeper into the cosmos to marvel at the impressive Orion Nebula and the Pleiades star cluster.
Macramé Workshop (Christmas Edition)
17 December, 15h00– 18h00, Vale do Lobo Owner’s Club
Learn the art of macramé, a weaving technique that uses knots and cords, and create a unique Christmas decoration piece. At the end of the session, you can take your creation home with you, along with a special gift.
Loulé Criativo
Promoting the revitalisation of cultural heritage, handicrafts, art and design. loulecriativo@cm-loule.pt, loulecriativo.pt FB: @loulecriativo, IN:@loule_criativo
Visit the website to discover more about the very varied courses and classes on offer
ALGARVE FLOWER GARLANDS
6 December, Gama Lobo Palace, Loulé
Coordination: Aude Touly
CYANOTYPE:
CHRISTMAS POSTCARDS
Gama Lobo Palace, Loulé 7 December
Coordinator: Sandra Nascimento
CHRISTMAS BAZAAR
Exhibition and sale of Loulé Criativo products
Palácio Gama Lobo, Loulé 2 to 23 December, 10h00–18h00
CHRISTMAS POTTERY FOR YOUNG PEOPLE
Gama Lobo Palace, Loulé 19 and 21 December
Coordination: António Xavier
969 335 749
hello@figsonthefuncho.com
7 December, 11h00
Join Figs on the Funcho for a countryside walk to support Mr. No Ears Cat Haven in Silves, a local cat charity. Enjoy tea, cake, and the chance to connect with fellow attendees.
12 December, 11h00
Ottolenghi Vegetarian Delights Cooking Workshop. Dive into a hands-on experience creating vibrant, flavourful vegetarian dishes – perfect for adding inspiration to your Christmas menu!
And now for something different, a Sip & Paint party. Gather friends, family, neighbours and colleagues together to sip on your favourite drinks, and unleash your creativity with painting projects. It’s the perfect way to celebrate the season and create lasting memories. No painting experience needed – a talented instructor will guide you through the process of creating your own masterpiece. All painting materials, drinks and snacks are provided. Or, give it a try first, and sign up for the session at the Anantara.
And finally
CHRISTMAS
CHEER? THOUGHT WE MIGHT GET SOME FROM ANTHONY MARTIN. BUT NO, HE
’
S HAVING A MOAN RATHER THAN
A
YEAR-END CLEAR OUT OF THE GARAGE, WHICH HE KEEPS PROMISING BUT NEVER DELIVERS. MEANWHILE, HIS UNCOMPLAINING WIFE HAS TO PARK IN THE FIELD
IDO GET a little fed up with those people who insist on introducing idioms into their speech, proverbs or cute little sayings they think sound right. Why do they do it, are they trying to appear more erudite, sophisticated or worldly-wise, or are they just trying to score points over their listener? They use phrases such as ‘the proof of the pudding is in the eating’, and ‘actions speak louder than words’. Why do they find this necessary?
A few hundred years ago, a periwigged and powdered poet came up with the catchy sound bite “Procrastination is the thief of time.” This has resulted in another of many phrases perfect for those pseudointellectuals who, being full of their own self-importance and having heads which are well and truly lodged up their own rectums, enjoy using when pontificating to others.
Okay, I admit that last sentence was totally unnecessary, but there are some things I really enjoy writing. But, depending on the mood of the editor, together with her proximity to the blue pencil, you may, or may not, read it.
Either way, getting back to the quotation... I, who can think of more reasons not to do something than to do it, am of the opinion that the poet’s statement is not only inaccurate, but – putting it bluntly – ill-considered, ie absolute rubbish. For what you may call procrastination is, in many cases, purely a matter of using time more efficiently and prioritising one task over another.
television of the world’s greatest snooker breaks. Surely they are not stealing or wasting time, but in fact are being personally more efficient, weighing up the pros and cons and judging the greater importance of one act over the other.
After all, the storage cupboard and garage will still be there next week, and even the week or month after that, and by then most probably even more crowded with the hypothetical gizmos and gadgets that said owner has not used, or even seen for more than five years. However, he does recognise that they will be desperately needed sometime in the very near future – irrespective of his wife’s opinion, as she knows zilch about this type of thing –hypothetically, of course.
What do you do with the weirdlyshaped plastic whatsit that was obviously part of something important?
Let me take a hypothetical scenario straight off the top of my head, with it not having the slightest grain of authenticity, reality or connection with the writer, ie me. The question is this: should someone choose, instead of clearing out a storage cupboard or garage, to devote time to watching a two-hour compilation on
Regardless of all this, every man should be able to have a drawer or cupboard or even room where he can keep items such as the stand that came from the television that is now hanging on the wall and the paper tray from the printer that was thrown away last year.
Life has too many twists and turns, you never know what is around the corner. The wife of the old neighbour who died four years ago may telephone and ask if we can return her husband’s lawn mower handle that was borrowed when he was hospitalised, so it’s just as well I found it last year and kept it. Just in case...
And when you do decide that it is indeed time to clear out the storage cupboard/garage/wardrobe drawer, what do you do with the weirdly-shaped plastic whatsit that was obviously part of something important, otherwise it would not have been kept? Simple, you put it back and decide to make that decision another day.
Now, is that procrastination? I think not. It is common sense, because, in an emergency, you know exactly where a missing item is. Or where it could be. And that’s when the proof of the pudding is in the finding, and eating your words.
FESTIVE SEASON 24-25
HOLLYWOODPARC
AT VILA VITA PARC
Join us for an unforgettable festive season lled with timeless charm and sophistication. Indulge in a celebration that promises unforgettable moments and unparalleled style and grace.
