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FR

EastAlgarve
M A G A Z I N E
EE

VILLA REAL · TAVIRA · CABANAS · OLHÃO · SÃO BRÁS · MONCARAPACHO · CASTRO MARIM

Tavira
Dec 08/Jan 09

New Tourist
license laws
EXPLAINED! What’s new
Out & about
Gardening
Summer
survivors

WIN!
Christmas a relaxing
pedicure
gifts & food
Our guide to buying gifts
online plus Festive food
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EastAlgarve
Welcome...
M A G A Z I N E

PUBLISHER, ...to the brand new East Algarve magazine.


EDITOR &
ART DIRECTOR We hope you agree the time has come for
Richard Bassett the East of the Algarve to have it’s very
EDITORIAL own media, a way of communicating and
CO-ORDINATORS
Susan Purvis advertising to the local community. Our aim
Richard Bassett Snr.
Katie Bassett is to produce a free bi-monthly magazine
PHOTOGRAPHS for the English speaking community. We
Gordon Railton are looking for your support with any issues
ADVERTISING
CO-ORDINATOR or questions you may have with relevance
Susan Purvis to your particular area in the East Algarve.
CONSULTANT If you have any interesting stories or
Arne Jakobsen
the Great Dane information about your town we would love
PRINTED BY to hear it and pass it on to our readers. Like-
Litografis-Artes
Graficas Lda, Ferreiras wise if there is anything you would like to
DISTRIBUTION know or would like to see a feature on we’re
Advertisers will be
issued copies for happy to help. If you would like to contact
distribution, along us please email info@eastalgarvemag.com or
with retail outlets.
All rights reserved. Except for normal if you are interested in advertising with us
review purposes, no part of this magazine
may be reproduced without the written
permission of the publisher. Every care
please see details on page 32.
has been taken in the preparation of this
magazine, but the contents are only meant
as a guide to readers. The proprietors of this
magazine are publishers not agents or sub
agents of those who advertise therein.
The publisher cannot be held liable for
any loss suffered as a result of information
gained from this publication

The QM garden centre has been


kitchen going through some changes...
garden
New owners, New look and New approach! We are now
FORMERLY stocking a fantastic range of gifts, cards and craft ideas, jigsaws,
books and much, much more at prices we feel are new to the
Algarve! We would love to see customers past, present and new
to come and experience our changes and value for money!
Come and share a glass or two of mulled wine & mince
pies on the Saturday 13th December from 10am until 4pm
FA R M S H O P – G I F T S – C A R D S – U K I M P O R T E R S
BRING THIS ADVERT FOR A FURTHER 20% OFF ALL PLANTS THAT HAVE ALREADY BEEN PRICED TO SELL!

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15
28
CONTENTS 22
4
8
YOUR VIEWS
let us know your thoughts

5 WHATS’S ON
What’s happening in and
around the East Algarve.

6 NEWS
Get up to date on the
latest East Algarve news!

29 8 TAVIRA TOWN WALK


Join us in a stroll around
the beautiful city of Tavira.

12 PEOPLE FOCUS
Explore Tarans glass
workshop and home

15 INTERIOR DESIGN
Tips and advice from
Panache Interiors

18 SHOPPING
Internet shopping ideas
and books for Chrismas

20 PROPERTY
The latest local property
information and legislation

26 ENVIRONMENT
Rising fuel costs plus
local interest article on Cork

30 GARDENING
Summer survivors

34 FOOD & DRINK

30 22
Festive cuisine

39 CLASSIFIEDS
Business services
and general classifieds
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Your views
Your chance to let us and our
readers know your concerns
and an opportunity to help.

Dear East Algarve


I think the atmosphere at the
grandson had a very lucky
escape in our pool. I still have LETTER OF
market on Saturday in Olhão
is great. A bustling area where
nightmares about the pool
incident as there were adults THE MONTH
all the local characters pass around the pool but no one Each month the
through, but Olhão itself ap- noticed his difficulty. best letter, whether
pears such an untidy place. A fence or a cover wouldn’t
The graffiti scrawled any- have prevented that accident
it be the most
where and everywhere makes as we were all using the pool interesting, funny
the place look bad. area at the time. We have or informative will
I have complained about the heard about the tragic cases, win a fantastic
worsening situation in Tavira but how many near misses
by using the official camara do we not hear about? Re- prize! This month
site but unfortunately got no alistically what can we do, we are giving away
reply. anybody know anything that a relaxing
Is there a department in the does work?
camara who deals with this, Sue, São Bras(name and pedicure, so get
and what do they actually do address supplied) writing and you
if you do complain?
Dear East Algarve could be our lucky
A concerned resident
We have recently moved to winner.
the tavira area and have a
very lively 20 month old little
girl. Does anyone know where
there’s a place at a Nursery in
the area?
Shane, Tavira

Postal Address:
EN270, CXP797A, Fonte Bispo, Tavira
Dear East Algarve email info@eastalgarvemag.com
Our family spent their holi-
days with us this summer in

TAINÁ’S FUN PARK


our new house. I was reading
a list of the health and safety
rules to which villas have to
comply when they rent out in
summer. Two on the list, which Birthday Parties
I thought were a bit over the
top were marking glass doors Gifts & surprises
to avoid people running into
them and fencing around the we’re waiting for you
pool.
Weekends & Holidays
Within 2 hours of their ar-
rival, one of my very exicted
in the fire house
granddaughters ran into the
sparkling clean patio door Vila Real de San Antonio
trying to get to the pool and
ended up with a bloody nose. Tel 914 487 450 / 965 362 105
Then within a half an hour my
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What’s on
This Christmas
and New year
Your guide to what’s going
on in the Eastern Algarve
area. If you would like to
advertise your event free of
charge please email us on
info@eastalgarvemag.com
TAVIRA LOULÉ MARKETS
13th December 7th-8th December
Procession of Santa lucia Festival of Our lady of the Loulé
16th & 23rd December conception, Quarteira Every Saturday of the
Tavira music academy’s children’s 31st December
choir. 06,13 & 23/12 NY concert & firework display, month
Mercado da Ribeira Praça do Mar 22.00 Estoi
19th December 2nd Sunday of month
Happy day concert with the gospel
choir, Misericórdia
V.R.S ANTÓNIO Moncarapacho
Every day until 24th December
20th December Artificial snow storm, Praça
1st Sunday of the month
Choral gospel, the Lisbon Grego- Marquês de Pombal Quelfes
riano and the Tavira choir, Psalyte 20th - 21st December
chorus, Carmo church 21.30
4th and 5th Sundays of
The chocolate house, this month
28th December Christmas’s musical, The Glória
Boot sale, Quinta Fonte do Bispo, football club at 15.00 Tavira
near Sta Catarina, Tavira 31st December 3rd Saturday of month
Until 31st December New dimension music group
Land and people exhibition by 30th and 31st December
Vila Nova de Cacela
Kärsti Stiege Sto Estêvão Dance music, DJ Miguel 3rd Sunday of month
31st December Maravalhas, zona poente de Monte Castro Marim
New Years Eve Party, Quinta Fonte Gordo 22.00
do Bispo tel 281 971 484 2nd Saturday of month
New Years Eve celebration, Praça
da Republica
ESTOI Sta Catarina
20th December 4th Sunday of month
Until 17th January 09 Opening of the Estoi nativity scene.
Exhibition last lines by Margarida
Palma, Galeria Palace
Until 1st June 09 DID YOU THE TOP THREE NEW YEAR RESOLUTIONS ARE:
1 Increase exercise 2 Be more conscientious about
Tavira Heritage of the Sea, Galeria
Palace
KNOW? work or school 3 Develop better eating habits

2009 BANK HOLIDAYS AND FESTIVALS


Here’s your handy cut out & keep guide to the 2009 bank holidays and
festivals (holidays in red), compliments of East Algarve magazine.
New year ........................................Jan 1st Feira de Boa Morte ........................Aug 1st
Mardi Gras .....................................February 5th Assumption Day.............................Aug 15th
Good Friday ....................................April 10th Festival of St Francisco .................October 4th-6th
Anniversary of the Revolution .......April 25th Republic Day ..................................Oct 5th
Labour Day .....................................May 1st All Saints Day.................................Nov 1st
National Day...................................June 10th Festival of St Martin ......................Nov 11th
Corpus Christi ................................June 13th Independence Day .........................Dec 1st
Municipal Day ................................June 24th Feast of Immaculate Conception ..Dec 8th
Festival of St Peter.........................June 29th Christmas Day ...............................Dec 25th
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News
East to West
Green track extends
across the East
Algarve!
A lgarve’s EcoVia is a proj-
ect which was originally
planned for completion Nov
2007. Despite deadline exten-
sions the project in certain
areas is far from completion.
Community financial invest-
ment is due to cease at the
end of this year. The objective
of the project was to have a
green track extending 214 ki-
lometers from Sagres to V.R.S.
Antonió. Passing through
nature reserves, woods and
countryside and the coastline.

Ryanair Boosts
In fact the East Algarve mu-
nicipalities with the exception
of Olhão have completed their
work. The problem in Olhão is
the linkage point to Faro is on
Local Trade
private land. Good news for Faro Airport and winter
tourism as Ryanair announce new flights

R yanair has announced new


Winter flights to Faro from
Glasgow, Liverpool and East
just across the Spanish border,
less than an hour’s drive along
the A22. Faro is in fact closer to
Midlands Airports in addition Huelva than Seville, the closest
to the existing routes from Spanish airport, and the traf-
Dublin, Shannon and London fic is far less congested along
Stanstead. These extensions of this stretch of motorway, so the
services significantly highlight cross-border association is not
the appeal of the Algarve to UK as strange as it seems.
citizens. Also, the decision by In these days of internet search-
Formula One bosses to host a es, this change should have a
Test Event in the region’s new positive influence on the aware-
Autodroma International Race ness of these benefits to trav-
Did you Circuit in December will raise
awareness and bring in a lot
elers, and any increase in the
number of passengers opting
know that... of new visitors to the Algarve;
many will want to see the Mc-
for Faro instead of Seville will
have a knock-on effect to the lo-
During the time of Claren that Lewis Hamilton will cal economy: car rentals, shut-
Caesar, the Romans be defending his championship tle-bus, overnight hotel stops
created a new port, some in next year. and hopefully they will spend
7 km from Tavira, named Just as Gatwick, Luton and just a fraction of their time and
Balsa. Balsa became a Stanstead all became London money here in the East Algarve.
big town, in fact much Airports, Ryanair has altered Who knows, if vendors make it
bigger than Tavira the name of Faro Airport to inviting enough, they may stop
Faro-Huelva Airport. Huelva is here next year.
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Lets promote the East Algarve!
In your own interest - get the message out:
The East Algarve is the place to be!

“Q uality and good pric-


ing is key to remaining
a sought after destination be-
pat residents and many who
are in transition, semi-resident
in Portugal, are feeling the ef-
Add to this list the traditional at-
tractions of: great golf courses;
superb beaches; an unbeatable
cause the current economic fects of the recent weakness of selection of resort attractions
situation has opened the eyes the UK£ versus the €uro in their all along the coast; and very
of many buyers who want a pension receipts and in the val- few, if any traffic problems.
certain quality of life as well ue of their remaining assets in The upshot of all of this accord-
as a safe investment”. So says their home countries. ing to Muriel Muirden is that
Muriel Muirden, the director of The consensus amongst re- “We are going to have buyers
ERA commenting on the results cent purchasers who selected who are much more attentive
of a survey on residential tour- the East Algarve points to a and who really evaluate price
ism market demands that was complex series of factors for in relation to quality”. The mes-
revealed earlier this month. their decision to move here: sage to Ex-pats and residen-
Portugal as a whole is expected the cost increase in fuel; health tial tourists is to “In your own
to be affected by the downturn factors for the retirees; the cost interest, get the message out,
in residential tourism because of homes with relatively large the East Algarve is a wonder-
of the global economic crisis. grounds for small-holdings; ful location for holidays, sports
Residential Tourism refers to low - if not free - water sup- ventures and retirement”.
tourists who own property in plies; a long history of good Note: the East Algarve maga-
Portugal. A significant percent- relations with the Portuguese; zine is launching a sister web-
age of Eastern Algarve owners and most significantly; fear of site that will focus on promot-
rent out their properties and the unknown when considering ing this region and we welcome
only use them on an occasion- ex-eastern block or new EU your cooperation in expansion
al basis. member countries as an op- and distribution of this maga-
In addition to these owners, ex- tion. zine.

U-turn
The EU finally use
a common sense
approach
The EU Commissioner marks
a new dawn for curvy cucum-
bers and the nobbly carrot by
allowing member states to sell
fruit and vegetables regardless
NOT BEFORE TIME
of their shape and size in their Project to safeguard our Ria Formosa Heritage
ongoing attempt to streamline
and simplify EU rules. Rules
still apply for 10 types of fruit R ia Formosa Polis Project
due for completion in 2012
is a restoration project which
It also involves the participation
of five Algarve Town Councils:
Faro, Loule, Olhao, Tavira and
and vegetables.
will include the consolidation Vila Real de Santo Antonio. One
of the coastline, environmental of the plans is to prohibit motor
restoration of degraded areas traffic on Faro Island except for
and of the riverside area and certain resident and access for
valorisation of cultural heritage, deliveries. Another plan is to re-
It is a program which includes move all buildings on the Islands
12 beaches, 48 kilometers of of Ramalhete, Cobra, Coco, Al-
maritime coast and 57 kilome- tura, São Lourencço and De-
ters of river banks and an in- serta. This is to allow the natural
vestment of 87 million euros. flora and fauna to recuperate.
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About town

Tavira town walk


S
tart your walk from the Susan Cliffe takes us on a walk about Tavira
Roman Bridge. On your town and points out a few interesting facts and
right, note the beautiful
blue and white glazed landmarks in this beautiful City.
tile plaque, dedicated to the Photographs by Gordon Railton
courageous men of Faro and
Tavira who defended the bridge the magnificent 16th Century left, and proceed uphill. Pass
during the political revolution of Misericórdia Church. The detail through a small square. At the
1383 – 1385. of the facade shows a renais- end, look right and you will see
Cross the Praca da Republica sance portico, an image of Our the River Gilao. Turn left, pro-
with street cafes on the right, Lady of Compassion with Saint ceed up hill, until you see house
the monument commemorating Peter and Saint Paul at either number 34. This is an excellent
the Great War of 1914 – 1918 in side, and both Royal and City example of a traditional Portu-
the centre, and The Town Hall coats of arms. guese house. Note the Moorish
behind the monument.Turn The interior of this church is style wooden door, with a grille
right into the Rua da Galleria. worth a closer inspection. Note structure to allow air flow into
The steps will lead you through the impressive gold altar, the the house, without allowing pry-
the original gates of the city. woodwork painted to give a ing eyes to look upon the women
Note the holes where the cross marbled effect, and the deco- inside, strictly forbidden by their
bars once were positioned. rative glazed tiles which depict religion. The chimney, windows
The arch of Porta de D Manuel the works of the sisters of mer- and their dressing are also in
shows the royal coat of arms of cy. Previously a charitable ser- keeping with tradition.
King Manuel 1st, also known vice, many of these good works You will see examples of this
as O Venturoso. are still carried out today by the detail elsewhere in Tavira, but
Continue uphill, passing the Sisters of Mercy, employed by unlikely to view them all in one
Tourist information office on the local community. house, and in such good con-
the left, you will now be facing On leaving the church, turn dition.
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At the top of this street Ballana by a very knowledgeable, en-
Is Anna is the Nossa Senhora thusiastic guide. There is also
da Graca Convent. This build- a small cafe here.
ing dates from the 16th century Leaving the water tower, pro-
and was on the site of the for- ceed across the square. You
mer Jewish quarter. The church will see the church of Santa
with a beautiful baroque facade Maria do Castelo on the left.
and the cemetery remain. It is This church originated in the
being renovated into a pousa- 13th century from a mosque.
da. This is a state run hotel in Rebuilt following the earth-
LEFT: The Roman a restored, ancient building of quake of 1755.
bridge from the high historical interest. External features are a gothic
Praça da República Bear left, and you will ap- doorway and window and the
proach the entrance to the station of the cross on the
BELOW
TOP LEFT Tower of Tavira, a former water outer facade. Internally you
Memorial of the tower of the Alto de Santa Ma- will find the stones marking
Political revolution ria which has been developed the tombs of the seven knights
TOP RIGHT into an camera obscura. This and Dom Paio Peres Correia,
One of the gates is a must see point. Using a who were killed in the battle in
to the City
BOTTOM LEFT
series of mirrors and lenses it Tavira between the moors and
Camera Obscura offers unusual and spectacular christians.
BOTTOM RIGHT views of the town, and also a The gardens facing this church
View to river most interesting commentary are also very pleasant. This

TAV I RA
TOUR S
Tavira Horse &
Carriage tours
Why not treat someone
special to our Romance
and Roses tour
www.taviratours.com
FOR BOOKINGS
CALL 960 170 789

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LEFT
Typical Tavira
house
BOTTOM LEFT
The magnificent
16th Century
Misericórdia
BELOW
Bougainvillea
RIGHT
View from the
castle walls

square which was formerly the the unique ‘tesouro’ rooftops, of books about Tavira and in-
main Town square is one of the and the river with the salt pans teresting views. Proceed down
most exciting in the town for its in the distance. the steps towards the Rua da
historical interest. The garden is a delightful place Galleria.
Within this square is the Church to relax, and artists are often You will pass the Church of
of Sao Tiago with a unique seen here capturing the beau- Misericórdia on your left, and
construction of facade and bell ty. Take care as after dark it the tourist office on your right.
tower with yellow, gold and is rumored that the garden is Depart through the Porta de D
white detail. haunted by a ghost of a prin- Manuel and cross the road. The
Also in this square is a good cess who is looking for her Town Hall should be on your
viewing point before entering love, so do not rest too long. left. If you look up you will see
the castle grounds. There are When leaving the castle pro- the face of Paio Peres Correia,
excellent views of the castle ceed straight ahead to the a very important man in the
walls and the view towards the Calcada da Galeria. Turn right battles to end the Moors oc-
town. and proceed down this street. cupation of Tavira. On the front
Continue towards the entrance On the left is a small shop, the of the building you will see the
to the medieval castle. Origi- Tavira Association of Arts and city coat of arms depicting a
nally built during the occupa- Flavours, selling local, tradi- ship and a castle with two tow-
tion by the Moors, only the ru- tional ware. This street leads ers. The poles are adorned with
ins and one of two octagonal you to the Galleria Palace. numerous flags during civil oc-
towers remain. From this tow- This building dates from the casions.
er, which is on your left as you 16th century, but most of the
enter, are magnificent views of baroque style is from the 18th We hope you enjoy this walk,
Tavira, showing fantastic archi- century. It is worth a visit as it look out for our next tour in the
tectural detail of the churches, has exhibitions, a wide range February/March issue.
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About town
life balance.. If your life has gotten
to the point where it
how to get yours seems there are endless
demands on you, you

S
o, how do you balance your health. Also make sure you
will feel stressed out,
out your life? It doesn't are eating well, getting exer- frazzled, and fatigued.
involve major chang- cise, and being kind to yourself. You need to de-stress by
es. You don't have to balancing out your life.
make any life altering decisions, It’s easy for things to fall in a
quit your job or move to an is- heap when you are tired and
land. The first step of balancing stressed, and easy to make you will help a lot with balanc-
out your life begins within you. mountains out of molehills too. ing out your life and feeling bet-
Take care of yourself and rest, ter. Of course, you should also
Here are three steps you can then you will be able to handle examine what's going on in your
take to help balance out your life: things much better without outside life too and see what im-
having them turn into a crisis. provements and changes you

1 TIME FOR YOURSELF When


people are busy with life, they
end up sacrificing personal time.
When you take care of your-
self, you feel better, have more
energy, and restore your spirit.
can make. If someone is putting
unrealistic pressures on you, for
example a family member is ex-
Parents are busy taking care pecting you to do way too much
of children, people are focused
on their careers and job obliga-
tions, studies, taking care of oth-
3 BE FLEXIBLE Don't hold onto
rigid expectations because
real life rarely turns out the way
for them, you will also need to
deal with that by having a talk with
them and by telling them you are
ers, and taking care of the home you had it all planned. It’s fine too stressed out with pressure.
and domestic responsibilities. to have expectations, but en-
This just doesn't leave any quiet sure you are flexible when deal- Prioritize if you have too much
time for yourself. Always being ing with the outcomes. If you to deal with and your energy is
busy with demands sucks all had a picture of how everything being zapped! There are many
of your energy and makes you was supposed to be and expect things that can wait so just do
feel burdened and stressed out. everything to go according to the things you must.
plan, you will get stressed and
It’s important to find some time upset when things go differently.
for yourself. For example, go-
ing to a quiet room and curling Having a flexible mind set will
up with a good book will give really help with stress. Because
you some of that quiet time you you are flexible, things don't
need. Making time for yourself, have to go a very specific way
will mean having more energy in order for you to be happy.
and feeling better. This is also a Just discard all preconceived
great stress relief strategy. notions of how you thought ev-
erything was supposed to be.

2 TAKE CARE OF YOURSELF Be-


sides making some time just
for yourself, you also need to be
Making these changes within

taking care of yourself. Are you


getting 8 hours of sleep? Getting
enough sleep is very important
because not getting enough
can have a negative ef-
fect on your mood and

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People
A touch of
glass Local artist Taran
and her husband
Robert show us
their home and
introduce us to her
beautiful artwork Photographs by Gordon Railton

I
n a valley by the Ribeira de Alpor- Hundreds of stones have been way many years ago. After seeing
tel, about 5 km. from Sta. Cata- chosen and carried to make walls fused glass and becoming fasci-
rina, lies the little hamlet of Corte and steps, plants have been grown nated by it she was determined to
Vidreiro. from seeds or “borrowed” from learn the skill. Her first step was to
Here, four and a half years ago, around the hills to make the garden buy an introduction book and learn
Taran Flaten and Robert Har- a colourful paradise. the basics about glass. The sec-
ris fell in love with, and bought, a A walk around the garden reveals ond step was to buy a small kiln
lavender field with ruins. They did a glass Parrot under a blossom- and start experimenting. Quite a
not at that time know that Corte ing Bird of Paradise (Strelitzia) lot of glass was broken during cut-
Vidreiro means “The place of the and a glass gecko on the terrace ting and in the kiln; the temperature
Glass Maker”, nor did they know wall. Swaying gently in the breeze, was wrong, the heating went too
that Taran’s experimentation and glistening in different colours are slow or the cooling too fast. Blood,
hard work with the fusing of glass thin glass strips hanging from the sweat and tears were lost while she
would be so successful that today branches of an old oak tree. Large slowly started to master the art.
she and her husband have seri- glass panels radiate their colours Glass fusing is a very old tech-
ously discussed calling their house with the morning sun and on the nique.
“Casa Vidreira”; “The house of the walls of the house are beautifully The first fusing of glass was done
Glass Maker”. framed exhibits. by the ancient Mesopotamians
In four years they have renovated Taran and Robert wanted a garden around 2000 B.C. Later the Egyp-
the main ruin into a lovely home, with surprises, with unexpected tians, the Greeks and the Romans
the chicken run into an outdoor corners and unique views, and al- all worked with glass and exam-
shower with workroom for Robert though they have a lot more to do, ples of their work can be viewed in
and the former pig pen into Taran`s they have made an excellent start. museums around the world.
workshop. Taran’s glass work started in Nor- Glass fusing means basically that
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layers of glass are fused together room or kitchen tiles, or as frames picture frames always comple-
with a design in-between or on for mirrors. Others will be sculp- ments the glass.
top. The design is made of glass tures, jewellery or different hang- Taran and Robert’s workshop is
powders and strings of glass, of ing decorations. Most are used open most days. Everyone is wel-
metals, sand, small stones, salt as wall decorations, set in wood- come to have a look, a chat, and
and water. en frames or cement, mounted on maybe to purchase.
The glass is fused in a special river stones or slate or combined
glass kiln, the temperature reach- with metal and wire. You can phone to check
ing around 840 degrees Celsius. Robert is the one who does the if they are in
Taran’s finished products are flat fixing and making of the frames. and to get
pieces of glass for different uses, His use of both rough and fine directions,
some as windows, many as bath- wood, driftwood, old window or 281 971 585.

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Eastalgarve_Issue1.indd 14 27/11/08 14:58:44


Interiors
FURNISHING DURING
THE CREDIT CRUNCH
In this difficult financial climate, an interior designer may
seem a touch extravagant; however making the most of their
connections and bulk buying program can prove prudent.

S
o, now you have it. Your to consider furnishing your new were approached by a developer
dream apartment or villa. property. Fear not. Interior design here in Tavira with a view to de-
You may well have, like need not cost a fortune. At Pa- signing and furnishing their show
many others, put down nache Interiors we specialize in low apartment. It was a huge success
your 10% a couple of years ago cost quality furnishing solutions for resulting in us forming firm friend-
to secure your property, and now your home, whether it’s for rental ships with many of our happy cli-
comes the time to complete. Then or your own personal use. From ents. We have now moved lock,
comes the shock. If you are one of our suppliers in Portugal, UK and stock and barrel to Tavira and
many thousands of British couples Spain, we have at our disposal a look forward to maybe helping
who have chosen to buy their holi- large range of beautiful furniture you dress your dream home in
day or retirement home in the Al- (sofa’s, chairs dining tables etc), the sun. If you would like to view
garve, you may end up having to fabrics and art. several of our apartments, please
pay upwards of £10,000 more be- Who are Panache Interiors you may contact Dennis or Sue on 961 844
cause of the poor state of the cur- be asking yourself. After furnishing 788 or 281 321 000 or by e mail at
rent exchange rate. You then have on the Costa del sol for 7 years we interiors.art@sapo.pt

• Interior design service whether single room


or total apartment/villa.

• Furnishing packages using quality furniture.


Prices from €8,000.00

• Large selection of art (originals, limited


editions and prints) and framing service.

PANACHE • Hand finished furniture. Solid mahogany


furniture finished in the colour/style of your
INTERIORS choice. Chairs, console tables, coffee tables,
dining tables etc.

For an individual
quotation tailored
to your specific
requirements
Contact us at
interiors.art@sapo.pt
Tel 927 829 930

Page 15

Eastalgarve_Issue1.indd 15 27/11/08 14:58:47


Shopping
High street
shopping at
your finger tips
Your complete guide to online shopping plus
where to buy something a bit different.

I
t’s that time of year again. some of you may know,
One of the problems of living there is a courier company
in Portugal is arranging good called direct international
quality and unusual gifts for transport. This company will
loved ones both here and back accept deliveries from store
home. We have tried to find the and ship to your chosen ad- simply won’t go in a straight
best on line gift suppliers for dress in portugal. The compa- line on the green.
you. ny has a website and you can The Underwater Light Show
There are many great sites to also e-mail directransport@iol. is, admittedly, just a little bit
use and some such as ama- pt for any information and fast bling, but we can forgive it that
zon.co.uk deliver lots of items quotes on parcel delivery. They as it transforms your bath, at
to the algarve at a very reason- will talk you through the pro- the flick of a switch, into a rav-
able price. The amazon website cess step by step. You can go ing disco dance floor.
is easy to navigate and orders online and order from any high The Sat Nag is a very well-re-
can be tracked simply. They street shop such as Tesco, corded, patronising woman’s
can even suggest other items Argos, M & S, and Boots, to voice will come out with one
that people bought after buy- name a few. of a host of hysterical Sat Nav-
ing the item you did. Another type commands. Great fun- ev-
well known site is e-bay.co.uk If you’re looking for something ery car should have one.
where you can find anything out of the ordinary try these;
you want and lots of sellers will www.iwantoneofthose.com www.buyagift.co.uk
post to the algarve or at least has a good range and com- UK delivery only
can quote you a price for com- petitive prices. They deliver to Gift ideas from this site
parison. The only downside of EU and UK. Offer gift wrap ser- A great website if you’re after a
this site is that you need to be vice. that special treat! From a Ball-
a member and have a paypal Gift ideas from this site room class to driving a Ferrari,
account, it’s great for some but Four golf balls, The Exploder you’ll find it all here. With loca-
wouldn’t suit everyone. A great blows up into a spectacular tions across the country and
site for price comparison is cloud of billowing white dust. tutors who are experts in their
www.kelkoo.com, also easy to The Phantom vanishes on im- field. The relaxed and friendly
navigate, it will give you a good pact into a watery mist. The Jet atmosphere makes it easy to
idea of the price of a chosen Streamer ejects 15 feet of spi- make rapid progress and pick
item and sometimes enables ralling streaming ribbon when up the new skill, and if you en-
you to grab a real bargain. As thwacked, and the Unputtaball joy it book more lessons.

madame butterfly
boutique for men & ladies Rua 4 de Outubro, 3A - 8800-362 Tavira - Telm: 968 620 057
NOW
OPEN

Page 16

Eastalgarve_Issue1.indd 16 27/11/08 14:58:48


Here are the latest selection

Recommended of books recommended by


Liz Beaupied.

books for Christmas


T
hose of you who know someone you really really like to be clever. €12.35...
my little bookshop for € 9.20...
know that I try to “Klutz for kidz” isn’t
have a bit of every- “World without end” the title of a book...
thing to cater to our diverse by Ken Follett. Just I just made that up.
population here in the East- when you were won- but i do stock a good
ern Algarve. What you don’t dering if he was ever variety of books by
find on one visit you are likely going to get it written, Klutz press. These
to find the next time you come comes the sequel to are great products for kids who
by. I hope that I make up in “Pillars of the earth” (1989, like to make things, sometimes
quality what I lack in quantity, and also, coincidentally, in with the assistance of a will-
and to that end allow me to stock). This big (1014ppg) book ing adult. For girls ages 4 and
toot my own horn and tell you is not for the faint of heart but up, I’ve got the cutest “Paper-
a bit about what I have on hand for the lover of a detailed his- doll-dogs” you’ve ever seen,
at the moment (the fact that torical novel set in 14th century including two dogs and 12 out-
christmas is just around the England. Available for €18.60 fits, plus a vynil dog-carrier for
corner has absolutely nothing in trade paperback... the long car or plane ride, or for
to do with it): taking to a friend’s house for
“The big over easy” by the afternoon. For the boys,
“be happy” by Mon- Jasper Fforde. From “Rescue trucks”, four miniature
ica Sheehan is a little the author “The eyre af- vehicles with fold-out roads, so
(10cm x 13cm) book fair” (also available) and he can “Get rolling”. The Klutz
of pithy advice on The other Thursday books range in price from €6
how to live a happier next adventures, comes a new to €20 euros. Come by to see
life, and she punctuates each series of literary who-done-its what else I have for the kids.
point with funny little drawings starring inspector Jack Spratt
that will bring a smile to your and Seargent Mary Mary. I Hope to see you soon.
face. You can purchase a bit confess I haven’t read this one, Liz Beaupied
of happiness for yourself or for but it sounds just goofy enough Owner, A Lura dos Livros

A Lura
dos Livros Rua Poeta Emiliano
da Costa 16, Tavira
Tel 281 323 199
Christmas is around the corner, it is not too early to start thinking about your
book gifts for this holiday season. We are now accepting your orders for those
special books you want to present to your friends and families this christmas.
To ensure that your gifts arrive by December 24th, please place your order as
soon as possible, orders normally arrive within 2 weeks of order date.
FREE GIFT WRAP SERVICE AND GIFT CERTIFICATES ARE AVAILABLE.
Lura dos Livros 38
Rua Poeta Emiliano da Costa 16 - Tavira - Tel: +351 281 323 199
E-Mail: lizbeaupied@yahoo.com Page 17

Eastalgarve_Issue1.indd 17 27/11/08 14:58:51


Technology
PC backup
solutions
Having an up to date back-
up of important photos,
files and other data from
your computer at home
or office is something
everyone should have.

S
o why do so many people not bother?

It could be, that it sounds too complex, or


that it is going to cost a lot of money or sim-
ply that most people just assume a data loss problem
or PC failure won’t happen to them. Until it is to late. search about the different features available and
In this article we will look at what is available and then start dreaming about how great it would
methods to enable you to store your data and the be if the software could do this or that. The real-
software to create it. ity is we almost never use those technical fea-
tures, and they end up being as waste of money.
One of the biggest issues with buying anything tech-
nological is buying more features than are needed to When selecting a form of computer backup stor-
get a job done. age keep this simple feature free idea in mind.
Most times a USB drive (flash drive) or regular
Why does this occur? old DVD-R’s will get the job done. High tech al-
ternatives such as tape backups and second-
Most of the time it’s because we start doing re- ary hard drives could just complicate the issue.

REMOVALS & STORAGE


LOCAL, NATIONAL & UK
Packing service • Mudancas e Armazenagem

NEIL & EMILY RICHARDSON REMOVALS


“Caring for your possessions is second nature and
we strive to care for yours as if they were our own”
TLM. +351 939 486 870/+351 939 486 807
Member of the British-Portuguese Chamber of Commerce
Tel +351 281 963 191 Email: neilandem@sapo.pt
Website www.ne-internationalremovals.com
Apartado 166, 8800 TAVIRA

Page 18

Eastalgarve_Issue1.indd 18 27/11/08 14:58:52


Technology
Secondary hard drives
Should you have a large amount of data to back
up, a secondary hard drive is an option. As the
prices drop they are becoming a viable option
for back up and additional storage. Quite simple
to set up and use. Make sure that the model
purchased has sufficient memory for your
needs.

PC Software
Storing the backup you create is the first ALGARVE DIRECTORY
step, of course before you store it on a An on-line Business directory for the
piece of media somewhere you need to first Algarve region for Business owners to
create the backup. An easy method of doing promote themselves and for consumers to
this is to just use the standard windows Zip locate their nearest supplier.
format. This will compress everything, how ever
it’s more difficult to keep all of your files up to date To list your business in the Algarve
this way. Software can Directory, please contact:
make this a lot easier info@algarvedir.com address
on you and hands off. enquiries to Jo Wolf.
Easy to use PC appli- Free classified adverts
cations can make the
backup process a lot
www.algarvedir.com
easier then doing it man-
ually. Programs like this
are automatically integrat-
ed to store a backup on a
USB drive or even trans- ANOTHER
fer it off site via FTP. Using
the backup software is as
simple as selecting what
LEVEL, LDA
files and folders you want ✓ We are a fully licensed service
backed up and the software takes care student transportation company.
of the rest until you want to add new files or folders. ✓We are committed to running
services that are designed around
The key here is don’t go for fancy features. All this students’ needs.
does is slow you down and often you won’t com- ✓ We see our service as part of the
plete your backup because of all the options. school day and look at each student as
an individual.
Back Up and online storage ✓We strive to provide for every
This is becoming very popular as online backup servic- transportation need our clients may
es combines the software to make the backup with the have, including daily service to and from
storage solution (off site online file storage). There are school, extra-curricular sporting events,
costs associated with this method, and the software is class trips and local charter services.
about as easy as you can get for making file backups.
ANOTHER LEVEL,Lda.
If you take one thing away form this article the Rua de Montalvão,
thing to remember is that you must take action. N.o 7 - 2.o Dto. 8800-420 TAVIRA
Not backing up your files today leaves one more For more information on how our services can
day for something to crash and you lose all of best meet your needs, please call us at:
your important photos, videos, music and more.
960 170 789
So do it now. Investigate the best method of com- email: henrique@another-level-algarve.com
puter backup storage for you. Before it is too late.
Page 19

Eastalgarve_Issue1.indd 19 27/11/08 14:58:56


Property
Tourist
licences
Are you up to date
with the new Tourist
licence Laws?Arlette
Ferber from Algarve
Documents fills us in.

A
s you may already be (25.06.2008) to the original law and will give information to the
aware, recent chang- show simplified requirements, tourists about the available ac-
es in Portuguese Law which are easier to comply commodation.
now require all villa and with by the owners. At this The process of filing for an ap-
apartment owners intending to point every property owner in plication for the rental permit is
rent out their property for holi- the Algarve should be aware of a rather complicated and time-
day let purposes, consuming exercise
to hold a vaca- “holiday rentals will only be deemed and we would there-
tion rental permit legal, as long as the property owner can fore like to offer you
known as a Licen- present the respective rental permit our services in this
ça de Alojamento matter as my team
Local or Licença
issued by the Câmara Municipal” and I are well ac-
de Utilização Turística. the fact that there is no more quainted with the new legisla-
More than 300.000 bed spaces reason to postpone the appli- tion.
are rented out illegally in the cation for the License. The standard cost for filing
Algarve. The government has Those who apply for the Li- the application and obtaining
simplified the licensing process cença de Utilização Turistica the rental permit is depending
in the hope that more owners will benefit from official promo- on the location of the house/
will apply for the tourist rental tion mechanisms. The govern- apartment. This and the price
license. In the meantime ASAE ment is due to launch a Nation- of the license itself can vary
will step up inspections of ille- al Register of Tourist Resorts, from town hall to town hall.
gally rented properties. which will allow more control Once the process is entered
The recently issued additions over available accommodation in the Town Hall, the owner re-

RULES AND REGULATIONS FOR VILLA RENTALS


In order to apply for the Tourist License your Villa, townhouse or
apartment is subject to the following requirements:
• Buildings must be in good inside equipment & utensils in accordance a week (as a minimum requirement)
and outside condition. to the unit’s capacity & needs. and when new guests arrive.
• The units must be connected to wa- • Lock on outside doors and on • Fire extinguishers & fire blanket in
ter, sewage network or have its own bathroom doors. the kitchen(s), first aid kit & instruc-
systems in accordance to its needs. • One bathroom for each 3 bed- tion manuals for the equipment and
• The units need to have hot and rooms with lavatory, toilet, bath or indication of the 112 emergency
cold water. shower. numbers.
• The units must have windows • There needs to be a minimum of • Adequate security measures for
connecting them to the outside, al- information on the rules and regula- pools.
lowing for ventilation. tions of the use of the units. • An official complaints book needs
•The units must have furniture, • Cleaning and change of linen once to be available in the property.

Page 20

Eastalgarve_Issue1.indd 20 27/11/08 14:58:57


ceives a stamped document,
a “ Requerimento” stating that MAIN OFFICE – E.N.125, Cevadeiras,
the owner required the Tourist 8900-024 Vila Nova de Cacela
License for his house (Licença TEL: 281-951165 FAX: 281-951438
de Alojamento Local).
The Portaria 517/2008, Artigo CABANAS OFFICE – (Waterfront)
3º, alinea nr. 4 clearly states Ava Ria Formosa, Centro Comercial
that after receiving this docu- Loja 2, 8800-591 Cabanas de Tavira
ment the house can be opened TEL: 281-370277 FAX: 281-370761
to the public.
Although the villa or apartment EMAIL belosantospedras@hotmail.com
must still be viewed during this LICENÇA No 504-AMI WEBSITE www.estealgarve.com
process after which the council
will advise on the adaptations VILLA – MANTA ROTA


and alterations that must be
3 bed. villa w/ private pool within
made in order to comply with
the Permit, the new law is more walking distance of beach and shops.
positive and simplified. Price – Euros 315.000
The State Control Authority
of Economic Activities (Auto-
ridade de Segurança Alimentar
e Económica - ASAE) has al-
ready carried out a number of CONCEIÇÃO / TAVIRA


inspections of private property 2 bed. , 2 bath cottage, within
rented out as Holiday Lets in walking distance to golf course;
the Algarve. Property owners
shops and public transport
without the obligatory vacation
rental permit (Licença de Uti- Price – Euros 175.000
lização Turística) have already
been subjected to hefty fines.
ALGARDOCUMENTS

Therefore holiday rentals will


only be deemed legal, as long
as the property owner can
ALGARDOCUMENTS
present the respective rental
permit issued by the Câmara
Municipal. In order to avoid the
STOP THE HEADACHE!
likely fines ahead, if you do not
already have the rental permit, holiday rental purposes. POf
ROVEDfor
Let us handle your Tourism License
we recommend that you apply Pdo fici
menal
c information
TS A

Finally updated and complete


IMP u
A L G A RV

for it without delay as the pro-


ORT ts
cess of preparing the process
and the issuing of the permit,
is available.
P R O V ED ANT
Please contact us with your questions and
P
O
EN

askdforfaffree
may take up several weeks.
ocuicial
Please do not hesitate to contact quote.
A

A L G A RV

E D UM
us in case you have any specific WeIalso men a wide range of
MPOprovide
RTA tservices
OC
questions about this issue. Sim- s
TS

administrative to support the


ply allow us to explain to you N T
Expat community in dealing with the
how we can help you obtain the
EN

permit with the least amount of bureaucratic system of the Algarve.

ED AL
stress, and keep you on the right

V
side of the law.
E D UM
AlgarDocuments work closely AlgarDocuments
O
OC
together with the property man- Av. Maria Lizarda Palermo 43b
c i al
i nts
GA
APPR

agement agency Care4Casas


who will be one of the first rent-
8700-081 Moncarapacho
f f
O ume ANT
Tel. (+351) 912 541 539
docPORT
R VE D

al intermediates with “all legal


holiday rentals” www.algardoc.com
FOR CONTACT DETAILS
SEE OUR AD ON THIS PAGE
info@algardoc.com IM
S

Page 21
T

OC
Eastalgarve_Issue1.indd 21
EN 27/11/08 14:59:00
Property
Safe have gone up steadily, but
not as much as in other

as Houses
parts of Europe, like the UK
or Spain. Moreover, the Al-
garve doesn’t suffer from a
massive overhang of newly
In volatile times, one should built properties such as is
reconsider if a long term seen in Spain.
How can you benefit from this now? You may feel
investment strategy is still you have missed the market. You may be think-
appropriate. Being “overweight” ing of postponing your purchase altogether due
in any particular asset class over to the current weakness in Sterling and waiting
a long period of time is never for better times. If this is the case, you may want
to reconsider. During a slowdown, the weaker
without risk, as many sharehold- hands are shaken out of the market providing an
ers have come to learn the hard opportunity to purchase your place in the sun at
way this past 10 months. prices not seen for 5 years. Although it is not the
norm, offers of 30 - 40% below the asking price

I
f you have been considering the purchase of are currently being accepted. Timing is no differ-
a property in the Algarve you could not have ent for an investor looking to add to his portfolio
chosen a better time. The turmoil in the finan- or for a family selling up at home to live a beauti-
cial markets is affecting property prices world ful life in the Algarve. Families who already have
wide. The Algarve has also been affected, but a home usually need to sell it in order to buy their
to a lesser extent. Over the last 5 years prices next one. If a “lifestlye change” buyer wants to

EAST ALGARVE LIVE, INVEST AND ESCAPE

G O L F P R O P E RT I E S VILLAS A PA RT M E N T S T O W N H OU SE S PLOTS

LHV - 927

Covering the whole of the Algarve as independant real estate agents, we can provide you with unbiased advise when you decide to
purchase a property and can introduce you to a wide choice of reputable mortgage banks, architects, lawyers, builders, chartered
surveyors and interior designers. We have been in business for over 12 years, finding the right property for countless satisfied clients.
We currently hav e over 700 properties available online and would be very pleased to help you find your ideal home.

If you are the owner of a good quality


property and wish to sell, please contact
C o n t a c t us t o d a y : 2 81 32 0 28 1
us to arr ange an appointment www.l a n d a n d h ous es a lga r v e. c om

TA VI RA V I L A MO U R A
R ua J osé P i r es P a d i n ha 1 7 8 N1 2 5 , B en f ar r as, B o l i que i me
880 0 - 3 5 4 T av i r a 81 0 0 - 0 6 8 B o l i q ue i m e
AMI6232

Page 22

Eastalgarve_Issue1.indd 22 27/11/08 14:59:05


Property
buy a home while the market is depressed, that
means they usually have to sell one at the same Rui Horta
time. With all the opportunities currently being
offered, it tends to equal out. Trying to catch the Law Office
ESCRITÓRIO DE ADVOGADOS
bottom in the market is advisable but can eas-
ily be missed, as there will not be a bell ring-
ing. Therefore the time for bottom fishing is now.
The fundamentals for buying a property in the LAWYER
Algarve have not changed. Some obvious ben-
efits that will never be available back home are Telephone:
the mild winters, over 3000 hours of sunshine 281 325 635 or 281 325 636
per year, beautiful beaches, the low cost of living Fax. 281 325 612
and the calm pace of life in a stable part of the Mobile Phone:
world and only a short flight away. 96 4043 380 or 96 207 6556
Next edition we will talk about improving the
E-mail:
chances of selling your property. advogados.law@mail.telepac.pt
or
By Robert Bijker, mail@taviralawyers.com
Land & Houses Algarve - Yellow Homes. Web: www.taviralawyers.com
www.landandhousesalgarve.com
Rua 1o de Maio, no 9,
Tel: 281 320 281 AMI No. 6232
Rua Dr. José Pires Padinha 178, 8800-360 Tavira - Portugal
8800 - 354 Tavira

PROPERTY MANAGEMENT H A P P Y H O M E S A L G A RV E

ALGARVEAN COTTAGES V I LLAS A PA RT M E N T S TOWNHOUSES QU I NTAS

A brighter future

Happy Homes has since 2003 provided outstanding property management services and value to
non-resident property owners. covering every requirement, Including Inspection, maintenance, administration,
letting and marketing services, we have developed relationships we are proud of with reputable
accountants, architects, local councils, builders and housing professionals. Let happy Homes ensure
that you have the best possible support to maximize and protect your investment for a brighter future!

C o n t a c t us t o d a y : 2 81 32 0 28 3
h a p p y h o m e s l d a.
R u a D r. P a r r e i r a 1 3 7
next to Barclays Bank
8 8 0 0 - 3 46 T a v i r a www.portugal-accommodation.com

Page 23

Eastalgarve_Issue1.indd 23 27/11/08 14:59:09


Finances

Are you up to speed with the latest


laws regarding your rental income?
Solutions 4 you gives us the insight

W
hat expenses can condition as required by the
you claim for rental residential contract you have
income? Solutions 4 signed;
You, Lda. Can help. • Occasional work required be-
Deductible expenses: cause of faulty construction, ac- Municipal Tax on Real Estate:
Maintenance and upkeep sup- cident, or unavoidable circum- • IMI introduced on 1st Decem-
ported by bills, and property tax stances (force-majeur). ber 2003, is a tax based on the
for the relevant part of the prop- Expenditure on Maintenance: property value. IMI replaced the
erty. In the case of sub letting, • Power and maintenance of lifts, local tax which is still applied to
the difference between the rent escalators and hoists; older properties.
received and the rent paid is not • Concierge & cleaning services; • The IMI which applies to rented
deductible. • Premiums for building insur- properties is deductible, refer to
Expenditure on Upkeep: ance. art. 41o CIRS.
• Repairs and general cleaning of • Local Taxes (e.g., sewage & re- Non deductible expenses:
the building, its annexes and ad- fuse) • Construction work which alters
joining land; • expenses incurred under con- the structure of the property
• Work decreed by the local dominium laws and for which • The acquisition of furniture for
council in terms of current legisla- there is documentary evidence the rented property
tion and local byelaws and work (for example, fire insurance and • Installations of air conditioning
which aims to keep the features any annual charges by the condo- equipment
which were present when the minium). • Work carried out to improve the
building was first licensed; Note: Cleaning, insurance pre- property (for example: installation
• Work which is aimed at pre- miums, local taxes, relate to art. of an automatic irrigation system
serving the building in the same 115o CIRS. on a rented plot of land

CO M P L E T E F I NA N C I A L S E RV I C E S
➧ Fiscal, financial and business consultancy
➧ General and detailed accounting
➧ Recruitment and personnel selection
Rua Cidade de Bolama, ➧ Professional training
Lote G, Loja D ➧ Fiscal and legal advice
8000-249 Faro
➧ Life and non-life insurance and credit
T/F: +351 289821060
TM: +351 917474040 (mortgages, personal loans etc)
E: geral@solutions4you.pt ➧ Other business services

Page 24

Eastalgarve_Issue1.indd 24 27/11/08 14:59:11


Your Property Management
Team in the East Algarve
❋ Recently bought a property
in the East Algarve?
❋ Not sure how to manage it?
❋ Why not give us a call?
❋ We may have the answers.
PMT East Algarve
FREE ADVICE
OUR SERVICES COME EXTRA
Tel: Sue 912988076 or John 915454401
Email: PMT_East_Algarve@yahoo.co.uk
www.PMT-East-Algarve.com

> Your Insurance


Specialist policies, designed for
expats and holiday home owners...
> Home  Motor  Health
> Travel  Commercial  Marine  Funeral Plans
> Policy wording or key facts sheet in English
> Local offices in Boliquieme and Tavira
> Authorised and regulated by the Financial
Services Authority in the UK

> We’re moving offices


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5th January 2009 our Tavira office will be relocating to...

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Part of the Lloyd & Whyte Group, established 1946.
Lloyd & Whyte International Ltd is authorised and regulated by the Financial Services Authority in the UK.

Page 25

Eastalgarve_Issue1.indd 25 27/11/08 14:59:22


Environment
A
s the Portuguese challenged member states taxation on inefficient
Government to use the public sector as a equipment acquisitions
projects an 8% role model on energy savings Building efficiency
a year rise in the and efficiency measures, as a certification, alignment of
cost of energy way to persuade other players taxation with the efficiency
in Portugal, we look at the to assume energy efficiency class of each building and
reasons for the rise and begin behaviour. an energy audit
a review of the methods that The Portuguese government Renewables - incentive for
you can adopt to minimize the has recently approved the micro-production and for
impact it has on your finances. National Energy Efficiency the revitalisation of solar
These extracts from an Plan – Efficient Portugal 2015 thermal installation
article by Ana Luis de Sousa which sets out a number of
of International Briefings actions for energy efficiency Industry efficiency
describe the EU Directives which should, up to 2015, Incentives for the
that have fueled this flurry of enable energy end-use adjustment of
legislation: savings of 10%, going beyond production
the savings target established processes and the
MOVING FORWARD ON by the Directive. introduction of new
ENERGY EFFICIENCY technologies.
Promoting the diversification Transportation
and sustained management Vehicle renewal - retirement State efficiency
of energy resources and regime for old vehicles and Implementation
the enhancement of energy a review of the tax regime of efficiency-
efficiency has been one of the applicable to private vehicles. oriented measures
primary goals of the EU in the Urban mobility plans for office and change in
beginning of this century. parks and traffic management consumption
A recent directive of the platforms in the main urban behaviour
European Parliament requires centres) Energy audit in all
member states to adopt a 9% Transport efficiency
indicative target for energy - an increase of goods
end-use savings up to 2016 transportation by railway and
and to prepare a National sea
Energy Efficiency Action Plan
(NEEAP). Residential and
They acknowledged services
the importance of the Home renewal -
development of an emerging inefficient equipment
market for energy efficiency replacement
and energy services, and programmes,

Energy Costs to Rise


by 8% per annum
Page 26

Eastalgarve_Issue1.indd 26 27/11/08 14:59:25


public buildings component in the Petroleum (incentive for micro-production
Installation of solar, co- Products Tax; and for the revitalisation of
generation and micro- solar thermal installation).
generation systems in public Power efficiency fund More on this below.
buildings Public funding for innovation, • Green taxation
Replacement of the vehicle industry, efficiency awards - Subsidy on loans for
fleet with large CO2 emissions and financial benefits for acquisition of efficient
Introduction of efficiency replacement of equipment residential buildings; Tax
and environmental criteria Incentives for the benefits for micro-production
in tender procedures (Green incorporation of companies to and solar thermal investments
procurement) invest in energy efficiency – these are already with us, so
make sure that you check your
Behaviours Ana Luís de Sousa - entitlements before you sign
Programme Plus - front line INTERNATIONAL BRIEFINGS on the dotted line, if you don’t
technologies and awards for – for full text see http://www. do things in the correct order,
excellent behaviour in energy iflr.com/Article/711046/ you might lose the subsidy.
efficiency sectors Energy-efficiency.html
Operation E - monitoring of The Portuguese Government
power consumption in schools Undoubtedly, all of these is promoting production of
and awareness campaigns for topics will affect our daily energy by the Portuguese
energy and efficiency lives, but there are ways for us population with the
to mitigate our losses on some introduction of the new
Green taxation of them: Micro-production Law (DL
Subsidy on loans for • Transportation - The review 363/2007) which simplifies
acquisition of efficient of the tax regime applicable the access mode for small
residential buildings; to private vehicles: be sure to grid-connected systems with
Tax benefits for micro- check the tax applicable for an installed power of up to
production and solar thermal any vehicle that you intend to 5,75 kW. Micro-Production
investments; buy. is producing and selling
Accelerated • Residential and services electricity on a small scale
depreciation of - taxation on inefficient with a grid connected system.
efficient office equipment acquisitions and Any entity can be a micro-
equipment; Building energy certification producer provided that they
Progressive are both already with us. have a contract
consideration of the But the biggy for us is: for low voltage
environmental Renewables “within the hour” electricity

Europe acts to minimise the rising costs of


fuel. Undoubtedly, all of these topics will affect
our daily lives, but there are ways for us to
mitigate our losses on some of them.

Page 27

Eastalgarve_Issue1.indd 27 27/11/08 14:59:27


consumption that is integrated System and the access to steps you can take to keep
in the consumption system. cash to proceed, then the your costs down. There are
EDP contract is exceptionally similarly rewarding systems for
The promotion was vastly good; they pay a very good people who install heat pump
oversubscribed on the rate for electricity that you based systems, photovoltaic
previous two “windows of pump onto the grid. The bad or warm water solar systems,
opportunity” so be careful not news here is that the money wind powered systems, water
to assume that you will get to pay the EDP premium and powered systems or Biomass
the EDP Contract in the short probably the interest relief on mixed productions for
term. Unscrupulous vendors installation costs for the lucky household heating, though the
could sell you the system and system owners will come remuneration is not as good.
then, having got your money, from the general public, so it’s
has no incentive to promote imperative that you don’t sit We will present you with
your application to the EDP. back and wait for the big bills further information on the
to arrive. most viable options for you
If you have the space to install over the next few issues of
a Micro-production If you don’t have the space East Algarve Magazine.
to install a Micro-production
System, there are still

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Mobile 916 596 359

Page 28

Eastalgarve_Issue1.indd 28 27/11/08 14:59:33


Environment
What a corker!
You’ve seen the
stripped trees all over
the Algarve, here are
a few interesting facts
about cork & links to
São Brás de Alportel

S
ão Brás has a long cork
producing history with
more than 80 factories
at any time dedicated
to the industry. Now, however
only around 10 factories are
left in the council.
There are currently 30 cork re-
cycling units, in public spaces range of luxury goods. Pelcor
throughout São Brás. products are sold in tourist in-
Natural cork has been associ- formation shops and they have
ated with the storage of valu- a shop in São Brás de Alpor-
able foods and beverages for tel.
thousands of years. Ancient Cork has excellent soundproof-
Egyptians, Greeks and Ro- ing and fire resistant qualities.
mans used cork stoppers for A tree that has given up its bark
wine and olive oil. is left with a funny terra-cotta
Dom Pérignon, in the 1600s color. But, as long as the har-
successfully adopted cork vesting is done correctly, it will
stoppers for his champagne live on and regenerate its bark.
and cork soon became essen- Other profitable uses for cork
tial for wine bottling. vintages undrinkable, and in have emerged with new prod-
Cork is of the thick outer bark recent times alternatives are ucts in the industrial sectors,
of the cork oak (Quercus su- used resulting in a major prob- particularly in home furnishings
ber). lem for the cork industry. and fashion.
A cork oak tree will not pro- According to the Word Wildlife The carnation revolution in
duce any useful bark until it is Federation, “Cork oak land- 1974 changed the manage-
40 years old but from then can scapes are one of the best ment of the cork tree forests
have its bark stripped every 9 examples of balanced conser- and of cork factories which re-
years with no ill effects. It will vation and development any- sulted in poor quality cork.
continue to produce bark for where in the world”.
the rest of its lifetime, over 200 There is a significant differ- The cork industry took a crip-
years. ence between the first harvest, pling hit when bottlers of wine
Despite numerous attempts, or virgin harvest, this cork is began shifting away from cork
there is no mechanized or rough, crumbly, and can only stoppers in the 1990s and re-
automated process that can be used for cork board, insula- placing them with plastic plugs
compare to traditional delicate tion, gaskets, shoe soles, etc. or metal screw-tops.
harvesting techniques. By the third harvest, the cork
Cork has the tendency to de- is a smooth, clear bark that will The number on the trunk of the
velop a mold that can taint make great wine corks. tree indicates the last number
wine, making even the finest Cork is now used for a wide of the year of harvesting.
Page 29

Eastalgarve_Issue1.indd 29 27/11/08 14:59:40


Gardening
Summer Survivors
– the classic
threesome
Southern Europe is
associated with summer
holidays spent in villas
and houses smothered
in magenta bouganvil-
lea, orange lantana
hedges and pink and
white oleander lining
roadsides.

Lantana

T
he move to live here gives the opportuni- Lantana
ty to open the ‘paintbox’ and soften new Lantana is a member of the verbena plant fam-
homes and gardens with these tough and ily, the more common form is Lantana camara.
colourful plants. They are available to us in It was described by William Robinson in 1867
many colour forms – a little thought before plant- when he visited Paris and saw the new sub-tropi-
ing about the effect you wish to achieve can give cal plantings fashionable at the time. He loved
spectacular results. If you wish the cooling look the shrubby habit combined with the new flower
of white flowers and fresh green foliage, go for colours used as background to these exotic bed-
the white oleander (which can grow into a large ding schemes.
tree) coupled with white lantana hedging and the It is a rugged evergreen shrub from the tropics
white forms of bougainvillea. Does this sound a which can grow to 2m high with equal spread in
bit too restrained for you ? Turn to the ‘chilli hot’ width. Stems and leaves are covered with rough
red flowering forms which look so good against hairs and have a textured surface. They emit
classic white walls and tumbling through native an unpleasant aroma when crushed (can smell
shrubs such as the like cat pee!). The
lentisc (Pistaccio len- small flowers are
tiscus). The choice is held in clusters giv-
Lantana
yours, warm oranges, ing a jewelled look
golden yellows and as the colour is dis-
creamy double flow- tributed among the
ers, these three plant foliage. In the tropics
families offer a huge lantana is a non-stop
palette of colours to bloomer and has be-
choose the basis of come naturalised on
your own summer the Acores. Here on
‘dream garden’. the Algarve the main
Page 30

Eastalgarve_Issue1.indd 30 27/11/08 14:59:47


flowering season is May to September. Flower plant is the generally smaller weeping or trailing
colour ranges from white to yellow, orange to lantana Lantana montevidensis. A lilac/purple
red, pink to rose in unlimited combinations, in flowering shrub which is a low growing trailing
addition the flowers usually change in colour as species particularly good for overhanging walls
they age. It is recommended for use as drought and groundcover. This is also recommended
resistant hedging plant which can provide shelter for drought resistant plantings and will tolerate
for other plantings. There are more than one hun- slightly lower winter temperatures than the L. ca-
dred Lantana varieties. Choose the sterile lantana mara and it’s hybrids.
varieties and hybrids which are normally offered
for sale on the Algarve as these are better be- Bougainvillea
haved than the species - avoid digging any natu- Bougainvillea was first discovered by a French
ralized lantana from the wild for your garden as botanist, Philibert Comerson, in the late 1760’s
this is probably the whilst plant hunt-
fertile seed bearing these three plant families offer a huge ing on the coast of
species which can Brazil and named
quickly become a palette of colours to choose the basis of for the leader of the
nuisance if left un- your own summer ‘dream garden’ expedition, Louis
checked, as has Antoine de Bou-
happened in neighbouring Andalucia. gainville. It was first botanically described in 1849
Pets can become ill after ingesting lantana. The and is believed to have been brought to Europe
unripe berries are known to be very toxic and the in the late 1850’s with the first cultivated plant in
foliage is toxic to livestock. Lantana is listed as a Europe recorded as flowering in Norfolk in 1860.
Category I invasive exotic species in the south- Bougainvillea is a riot of colour for nine or ten
ern United States, and is a huge problem in Ha- months of the year. This is one of the classic
waii. The best way to propagate is by cuttings Mediterranean plants – adorning garden and
from favourite colour forms. We have used the house walls with show stopping colour effects.
single colour white and golden yellow flowering The colours available run through reds, orange,
varieties to good effect amongst silver and grey pink and white. There is a form with variegated
leaved plantings. foliage. The vibrant and long lasting colour dis-
Another lantana that is also a popular garden plays come from the leaf-like bracts which sur-

Bougainvillea

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Eastalgarve_Issue1.indd 31 27/11/08 14:59:50


round the very small white flowers. Some of the drained soils they are very tolerant and adapt to
oldest varieties come from the Brazilian species, many soil types. Light feeding and some water
B. glabra, which is also the most hardy. through the summer will be of benefit. The bou-
gainvilleas are salt tolerant but do need full sun
The natural habit is a climbing plant as the stout for best displays. Watering during the first couple
spines in the leaf axils attach themselves to of summer seasons aids establishment but they
structures, trellis, host trees or palms. They can will tolerate short periods of drought. Propaga-
grow up to nine or ten metres high so plant them tion of favourite colour forms is best done by cut-
where they can have plenty of room. They can tings taken in summer.
also be used as ground cover and will tolerate
poor soil and little water but may not produce OLEANDER
their best display under these conditions. We The botanic name is Nerium oleander, with a few
are experimenting with bouganvilleas on a rough sub-species. The main contribution to our gardens
steep bank as ground cover. comes from the many selected hybrids giving us
Bougainvillea only flower a huge range of useful co-
well on new growth so lour forms to choose from.
pruning is essential at (Over 150 named varieties
some point. Here on the in the French National Col-
Algarve hard pruning can lection). It is believed to
be undertaken at the end have been growing in the
of January or during Feb- United Kingdom for ap-
ruary – any shaping or hard proximately 350 years but
pruning needed should be is native to the Mediterra-
done before growth starts nean basin. It is pictured
in early spring. They will in wall frescoes of gardens
not tolerate wet roots in in Roman Pompeii togeth-
winter and although pre- Oleander er with the strawberry tree,
ferring rich loamy, well- Arubutus unedo and was

EastAlgarve
garve
v
ve TAVIRA
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Opposite Tavira Gran Plaza Shopping Centre
Vale Carangueijo, Tavira.

Page 32

Eastalgarve_Issue1.indd 32 27/11/08 14:59:54


also probably used in the gardens of Conimbriga frost but foliage will be damaged. Some varieties
(Roman Coimbra) in the north of Portugal. It is are hardier than others. Semi-ripe cuttings are
recorded as an important component of Islamic best rooted in summer, seed is set occasionally
gardens as long ago as the 11th century and but it is not possible to guarantee colour forms
also of Mughal dynasty gardens of India in the of plants grown this way.
16th century so may well have formed part of the Particularly useful for screening and informal
original plantings at the famous Taj Mahal near hedges, it is a relatively quick growing and co-
Delhi. It has gradually spread throughout Europe lourful shrub for a newly laid out garden. By re-
and is believed to have been introduced to North moving suckers, and leaving just a few stems,
America as long ago as 1786. It is shrub with oleander can be formed into very attractive small
a long and distinguished history of use in royal trees.The oleander is a tough durable shrub that
gardens – receiving the same winter protection is inexpensive and easy to grow in most situa-
afforded to the fashionable newly introduced ex- tions. When the terminal flower clusters smother
otics such as oranges and lemons in the Medici the shrub it really stands out from the surround-
family gardens of Renais- ing landscape. The colours
sance Italy. vary from white, through
pink to deep red with yel-
It is a shrub which toler- low, cream and scented
ates bright sun, but some double forms. Oleander
shade is acceptable. It is toxic in all parts. Con-
is very versatile, surviv- tact with skin may cause
ing in both dry and wet reaction. We are using
soils. Fastest growth oc- it to help fill out and es-
curs when some water is tablish green shrubby
given and in Crete, where areas as it seems to be
it is naturalised, it lives in one of the few plants our
stream and river side ar- Oleander wild rabbits will not eat!
eas. It will survive some Thanks to Rosie Peddle

restaurant MENU

Beira Rio
Cream of Leek & Potato Soup
with cheese croutons
Chicken & Wild Mushroom
pate with warm toast

Christmas Party Nights


& seasonal berry glaze
Mixed Melon Balls marinated &
served in a Malibu & mint jus
Friday
Friday,12th
12th December
December Traditional Roast Turkey with
Saturday
Saturday,13th
13thDecember
December mixed herb chestnut stuffing,
served with bacon & chipolato roll

MULLED WINE LIVE MUSIC & DANCING


MENU
Pan fried Monkfish on a bed of
mustard mash drizzled in a light
MULLED WINE
Cream of Leek a n d P o t a t o S o u p
garlic, parsley & bacon sauce
Steamed Chicken breast stuffed
A limited number
with cheese of

to avoidCdisappointment.
croutplaces
ons
LIVE MUSIC
are available each night, so book early
hicken and Wild Mushroom Pate bookings must be paid for in advance
All with a light blue cheese & dressed
with creamed leeks
Only €26.00 per person
with warm toa s t a n d s e a s o n a l b e r r y g l a z e

Mixed Melon Bal l s DANCING Accompanied with potatoes


Price
marinatedincludes
and served in mulled
a Malibu andwine
mint jus reception on arrival at 7.00pm,
& seasonal vegetables.
*******3 ***course
** meal and live music.A limited number of (Vegetarian option available
places are available each
Traditional Ro a s t T u r k e y w i t h m i x e d h e r b c h e s t n u t night, so book early to on request)
stuffing, serve d w i t h b a c o n a n d c h i p o l a t o r o l l avoid disappointment.
Rua Borda d’Água d’ gua da Asseca, 46-50, 8800-325 Tavira
Pan fried Mo n k f i s h o n a b e d o f m u s t a r d m a s h d r i z z l e d i n a
All bookings must be paid
for in advance. Christmas Plum Pudding
light garlic, Tel/Fax:
parsley and bacon sa00(351) uce 281 323 165 with Brandy Sauce
€26.00 per person
Tlm: 916
S t e a m e d C h i c k e n B822 117 E-mail: info@beirariotavira.com
r e a s t s t u f f e d w i
and dressed wit h c r e a m e d l e e k s
t h a l i g h t b l u e c h e e s e Warm Apple crumble with
Price Includes, mulled vanilla custard
wine reception on arrival
CUSTOMER
Pan friedNOTICE: Restaurant
Breast of D uck with caBeira rameliRio sed will
red close
onionson
witFriday,
h 21st Novemberatuntil
7.00Friday
pm, 3 c6th
oursFebruary
e meal, 2009. Meringue pies with vanilla
However, we will open on Friday, 12th December and Saturday 13th December forlitwo
a h a z e l n u t a n d o r a n g e o i l ve mspecial
usic. Christmas Party Nights.
We will continue to serve Sunday Lunch until Sunday 7th December. & winter berry cream
Accompani e d w i t h p o t a t o e s a n d s e a s o n a l v e g e t a b l e s .
The Black Anchor Irish Bar will close from Saturday 13th December until Friday 9th January.
(Vegetarian O p t i o n A v a i l a b l e o n R e q u e s t ) Tea or Coffee
são letras gregas Unipessoal lda (Telf. 281 322 800)

************

Christmas Pl um P u d d i n g w i t h B r a n d y S a u c e Page 33
Rua Borda d’Água da Asseca , 4 6 - 5 0
Warm Apple C r u m b l e w i t h v a n i l l a c u s t a r d
8800-325 Tavira
Meringue Pi e s w i t h v a n i l l a a n d w i n t e r b e r r y c r e a m Tel/Fax: 00(351) 281323165
Eastalgarve_Issue1.indd 33 27/11/08 15:00:00
Tlm: 916822117
Food & drink
Festive favourites
Treat your guests to a classic
christmas lunch with this Mulled Wine
selection of classic recipes The following recipe has been donated by the
wine writer Alice King. Alice says that the great
thing about mulled wine is that you can keep
adding to it. If unexpected guests arrive and
you’ve no wine left, simply add some more
water and fruit. Use the recipe below as a basic
guideline, adjusting the quantities of wine if
you want it stronger and adding more sugar or
honey if you like it sweeter.

This recipe is taken from Delia Smith’s


Christmas.

SERVES 12
Ingredients
• 2 x 75 cl bottles medium to full-bodied red
wine (Bulgarian Cabernet Sauvignon is ideal)
• 1 orange stuck with cloves
• 2 oranges, sliced
• 2 lemons, sliced
• 6 level tablespoons granulated sugar or
honey
• 2 inch (5 cm) piece cinnamon stick
• 2 level teaspoons finely grated fresh root
ginger or ground ginger
• 2 tablespoons fruit liqueur such as
Cointreau, Grand Marnier or cherry brandy
(optional)

Put all the ingredients in a saucepan with 2½


pints (1.5 litres) water then heat to simmering
point, stirring until all the sugar has dissolved.
Keep it barely at simmering point for at least 20
minutes – but do not boil or all the alcohol will
evaporate. This can be made in advance, then
re-heated just before the party. Serve it warm
in half-pint mugs (in which case there will be 12
servings) or else in 24 sturdy wine glasses.

Brussels sprouts Serves 6


Preperation and cooking times

with pancetta Ready in about 10 minutes

Ingredients
Spruce up your sprouts this Christmas - Gor- • 1kg Brussels sprouts
don Ramsay’s recipe creates a really rich • 100g thinly sliced pancetta , cut into 2cm
flavour strips
• about 4 tbsp hot goose fat
Recipe by Gordon Ramsay • a handful of shredded sage

Page 34

Eastalgarve_Issue1.indd 34 27/11/08 15:00:08


FOR THE GRAVY
• 300ml dry cider
• 600ml chicken stock
• 2 tbsp quince or
redcurrant jelly

1 Heat oven to 190C/fan


170C/gas 5. Wash and dry
the turkey, removing any feath-
ers. Pull out the giblets and the
neck, then set aside. Lift up the
skin that covers the neck open-
ing, then stuff the stuffing up and
under the skin, securing it tightly
underneath with a skewer or two
cocktail sticks. Weigh the stuffed
turkey, then calculate the cooking
time, allowing 40 mins per kg (20
mins per lb).

2 Put the leeks and carrots


along the bottom of a roasting
Cider roast tin in a single layer - this will make a trivet for
the turkey to sit on and add flavour to the gravy.
turkey Add the neck to the tin. Sit the turkey on top
and coat the breast all over with butter. Pour in
Succulent, cider-roasted turkey, with tender the cider, cover with foil, then roast according to
glazed apples and pear makes the ultimate cen- your timings. Keep checking the tin - if the veg-
trepiece for your Christmas table etables look like they’re burning, add a splash
of water or cider. At 30 mins before the end of
Recipe by Jane Hornby cooking, remove the foil and season gener-
ously. To test that the turkey is ready, pierce the
SERVES 8 thigh through its thickest part; the juices should
Preperation and cooking times run clear. Take the turkey out and leave to rest,
Preparation 15 mins covered with a clean tea towel. Can leave to rest
Ready in about 4 hrs for up to 1 hr. Now make the gravy. Drain the
Approx 4 hrs cooking for a 4.5kg bird fat and juices from the tin into a jug, discarding
the veg and the neck. Place the tin over a flame,
FOR THE TURKEY then pour in the cider, scraping up the flavour-
• 4.5-6kg turkey , giblets removed and kept filled crusty bits with a wooden spoon. Reduce
• 450g stuffing the cider by half, then strain into a saucepan
• 2 leeks , trimmed and halved (this will save you hob space later).
• 2 carrots , halved Per serving (with gravy)
• 50g butter , softened 704 kcalories, protein 82g, carbohydrate 21g,
• 300ml dry cider fat 32 g, saturated fat 11g, fibre 1g, salt 1,77 g

1 Blanch the Brussels sprouts in a pan of


boiling salted water for 3 mins, then drain
and tip into a bowl of iced water to cool
quickly. Drain well again and set aside un-
til nearly ready to serve. Sauté the pancetta
in the hot goose fat until crisp. Toss in the
sprouts and stir-fry for 2-3 mins, adding the
sage to serve.
Recipe from Good Food magazine, December
2005.

Page 35

Eastalgarve_Issue1.indd 35 27/11/08 15:00:09


Food & drink
Creamy bread
& onion sauce
Sara Buenfeld’s creamy sauce will make a tasty
addition to your Christmas lunch.

Recipe by Sara Buenfeld

SERVES 8 - 10
Preperation and cooking times
Prep 15 mins
Honey-roasted Cook 30 mins

sweet potato Ingredients


• 85g butter

with red onions • 2 onions , sliced


• 2 fresh bay leaves , plus extra to serve
• 600ml whole milk
A sensational and colourful side dish, fantastic • 7 cloves
served with a roast dinner • 140g crustless white bread
• 142ml pot double cream
Recipe from Olive magazine

SERVES 8 1 Heat the butter in a pan, add the onions and


bay leaves, then gently fry with the lid on for
10 mins until soft, but not coloured.
Preperation and cooking times
Ready in 40 mins 2Add milk and cloves, then simmer gently,
uncovered, for 30 mins, stirring occasionally.
Ingredients
• 750g sweet potatoes , peeled and cut into
3 Remove bay and cloves, then tip everything
into a processor and blitz with two-thirds of
the bread until smooth. Chill for up to two days.
4-5cm cubes To serve, tip the cream into a pan, add the
• 2 red onions , peeled and cut into thick sauce, then stir until mixed. Tear in the remain-
wedges ing bread. Add a little milk if necessary to thin
• 5 tbsp olive oil the consistency. Season and serve warm.
• 1 tsp ground ginger
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 2 tsp dried chilli flakes
• ½ orange , juiced
• 1 tbsp honey
• a handful of coriander leaves, roughly
chopped
• black olives , to serve

1 Heat the oven to 190C/fan 170C/gas 5. Put


the sweet potatoes and onions in a single
layer in a roasting tin. Whisk together the olive
oil, ginger, cumin, chilli flakes, orange juice and
honey. Pour this mixture over the vegetables
and toss to coat well. Season with
salt and roast for 15-20 minutes or
until tender.

2 Sprinkle with the corian-


der before serving and
scatter with a few black
olives, if using.
Page 36

Eastalgarve_Issue1.indd 36 27/11/08 15:00:16


Cranberry
Christmas pud.
This is a lighter version of the traditional pud,
but it’s definitely not light on flavour

Recipe from Olive magazine

Makes 2 x 1 litre puds,

SERVE 8 EACH
Preperation and cooking times

1
30 mins, plus 4 hrs steaming, Bring the dried fruit and alcohol to a simmer,
plus 24 hrs soaking turn off the heat and leave for 24 hours. Add
the almonds, apple and zest. Pour the golden
Ingredients syrup into 2 x 1-litre pudding basins or smaller
• 100g raisins ones with a total volume of 2 litres.
• 100g sultanas
• 100g dried cranberries
• 100g candied peel
2 Collect some whole pieces of fruit from
the mix and add them to the bottom of the
basins with a few almonds. Cream the butter
• 100g currants and sugar, then add the eggs, fruit and rest of
• 100g dried figs, halved (optional) the ingredients and mix well. Spoon into the
• 100ml cherry brandy or brandy basins. Cover each with a sheet of greaseproof
• 100g whole blanched almonds paper layered with a sheet of foil. Make a pleat
• 2 Bramley apples , grated along the centre of each to allow the pudding to
• 1 lemon , zested expand, then tie around the lip of the dish with
• 6 tbsp golden syrup string.
• 200g butter , chilled in the freezer
and grated
• 180g dark muscovado sugar
3 Steam for 3 hours on the top of the stove in
a pan with a lid - the water should come 3/4
of the way up the basins. Or cook in the oven
• 4 eggs for 3 hours on a trivet - half-fill the roasting tin
• 250g self-raising flour with water and top up as you need to. Cool and
• ½ tsp baking powder wrap in clingfilm, then store somewhere cool.
• ¼ of a whole nutmeg , grated Reheat by steaming for an hour or microwaving
• ½ tsp cinnamon on full power for 5 minutes.

Feeling at home in a cosy environment! These are the main


ingredients of Mesa do Tim which in translation simply is,
Tim’s Table. In this new bistro like café and restaurant a warm
welcome is guaranteed and a relaxed atmosphere is always
assured. Whether you are coming in for just a drink, a small
bite to eat or to be wined and dined, we are here to help you
unwind and enjoy our cosy surroundings.
We have a weekly changing menu.
Also available for groups, special occasions and parties.
For reservations please call: 912243220
Mesa do Tim is located just outside Santa Barbara de Nexe
www.mesadotim.com

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Food & drink

A French
Christmas Meal
Christmas is always a magical time. It’s the mo-
ment we bring the whole family together. There are
the gifts, the games, the laughter, the carols, and in
France it always means a FAN-TAS-TIC dinner.

T
o begin with the cham- wines which suit; the wines of coffee, pear or mirabelle plum
pagne aperitif whets Bordeaux (St Emilion, Médoc) liqueur, a Cognac or an Arma-
your appetite without Bourgogne (Hautes Cotes de gnac leaves us with a gentle
spoiling your palate with Nuit), from the South West (Ca- sensation of warmth.
toasts and petis fours. With a hors, Madiran) from Cotes du
small liqueur of cassis, peach, Rhone (Chateauneuf du Pape). Happy Christmas and bon
or chestnut, the kir royal (black- At our home, a meal is not appétit!
currant liqueur with cham- complete without cheese. The
pagne) becomes very special cheese platter always comes All the products mentioned are
Then the serious stuff begins: amply provided with four or five available at our Tavira shop,
the plate of shellfish, with oys- different cheeses, cow, goat or except the sea food. Chees-
ters, prawns and cockles, ac- sheep’s milk. Sweet, fruity or es and Christmas log cakes
companied by a dry white wine strong, it may be accompanied can be ordered and in certain
(Muscadet, Sauvignon). by the whole range of Alsace cases be delivered to your
This is followed by the famous wines, white or red. home. For more information
foie gras of duck or goose with Then the long awaited dessert contact us on 960 359 496 or
or without truffles, to savour arrives; the Christmas log cake chezcarolemanuel@aol.fr
with a sweet white wine (Com- with its butter or chocolate
té Tolosan) or a smooth sweet cream. Red wine, sweet white
wine (Monbazillac, Sauternes). wine or champagne it’s your
The main course is the bird, choice
such as duck with potatoes Then the after dinner sweets
cooked in its fat or more tra- like pâtes de fruits (fruit jel-
ditionally a turkey with chest- lies) and chocolates keep us
nuts. There are various red waiting for the gifts. With the
Page 38

Eastalgarve_Issue1.indd 38 27/11/08 15:00:32


Classifieds
P R O P E RT Y F O R S A L E Printing, Publicity & Graphic art design.
CLASSIFIEDS ARE

FREE
Tel: 281 325 191/962 012 105
Tavira, Algarve Portugal, Cottage with Pool ARTESILVA based in Tavira
2 Bedrooms, 1 Bathrooms, Airport 10-30 kms Acrylic Supplies
Price €320,000 (euro) Tel: 281 322 068
lisbethmarrs@gmail.com ACIMA DA ´MÉDIA Based in Cabanas
Solar Safe Pool Covers
P R O P E RT Y F O R R E N T Tel: Peter 963346631
www.solarsafepoolcovers.com Email us on
Tavira, spacious furnished1 bed apartment info@eastalgarvemag.com
Tavira Garden long term rent Dog Spa, kennels, dog sitting, Canine
Tel: 289 798 046 centre in Pechão
Tel: 289 705 471/964 639 587.
Quelfes, 1 bed luxury furnished apartment www.dogspa.com.pt
long term rent

COMING
Tel: 289 721 361 Man with a Van
Tel: Mark 967 890 058
Between Santa Barbara de Nexe and São Only €25 per hour
Bras Furnished apartment to rent in rural

NEXT
setting, Storage motorhomes, caravans, boats.
Tel: 917 267 948 Based in Moncarapacho
Tel: 289 791 669/964 235 050.
Tavira, 3 bedroom condominium house, pool.
900€ per month + utility bills. Satellite TV Specialist.

ISSUE
Tel: 289 722 409 Sky Digital & freesat. New systems &
upgrades. Problems solved by experienced
Moncarapacho, Commercial, suitable for technician
office/storage/studio. Tel: Trevor 964 721 714
Total inside space 82m2.Covered terrace Based in Tavira.
50.8m2 plus garden. Views to countryside.
Quiet location. 525€ per calendar month. Fancy Dress.
Easier to rent than invent. SB de Nexe.
Out February 09
Tel: 918 980 425
Sto Estevão, Tavira furnished 4 bedroom, 2
bath villa with solar heating, in peaceful area.
Tel: Deborah 289 994 194
Firewood. Delivery of Hardwood.
Valentine special
Available from Nov. 650€ per month + bills
Tel: 916 911 502
Tel: Dave 919 907 118
Computer Services based in Tavira.
Kids club
São Brás de Alportel, Real Estate.
EURO QUINTA Lda AMI2596
Tel: Ricardo 916 027 890
www.n-tad.pt Portuguese
Tel: Tony 289 845 137/962 680 728 Email:
eurovillas@clix.pt
Karaoke. karaoke Jockey available for parties,
pubs and clubs Water Dogs
Tel 281 971 484
FOR SALE
ACTIVITIES
New Business
Ladies shoes various styles larger size 8-8½
Tel: 969 979 923 Guitar lessons. Individual or small groups.
focus
SERVICES
Santa Catarina Tel: 926 615 233
New shopping
centers
Quilting lessons. Interested in Quilting/
patchwork?
Bay-bee. baby equipment for hire. Santa Catarina Tel: 281 971 484
Tel: Hazel 934 665 057
Construction A.R.L Lda Traditional
Portuguese Conversation class. Every
Sunday morning 10 until 12, Quinta Fonte
Competitions
Plus regular
Portuguese style a speciality. Free quotations Bispo, near Santa Catarina.
no obligation. Tel: Arlindo 289 794 696/914 Tel 281 971 484
905 653. email: arl-ida@sapo.pt
Based in Fuzeta O Parque da Anita
(Indoor childrens play area)
features
Handyman. Most work undertaken Based in Olhão Available for parties.
Tel: Alan 933 640 821 Tel: 916 691 050
Window cleaner. Good Rates
Tel: Don 927 139 198 H E A LT H A N D B E A U T Y
Laundry/dry cleaning with pick up/delivery FINALLY, WE
service
Tel: 289 109 896/962 619 820 Based in Olhão
Organic food and natural cosmetics.
Tel: 281 328 609/966 479 261 WOULD LIKE TO
Clothing alterations & repairs
BETERRABA (left side of local market Tavira) THANK ALL OUR
Tel: 289 109 896/962 619 820
Based in Olhão
The Bowen Technique Natural Healing for
the whole body CONTRIBUTERS
East Algarve Building & Gardens.
East Algarve Clinics Gareth Bullock
Tel: 912 540 071
AND ADVERTISERS
Prompt friendly service
Tel: 964 508 128
WITHOUT WHOM
WA N T E D
Garden design and Maintenance THIS MAGAZINE
Tel: Becky 281 326 304/912 492 246
BECKY’S BLOOMERS Based in Tavira
Employment. Just moved to Tavira, Shane
& Kim Allen, looking for work, anything
COULD NOT HAVE
The Plumber considered, we have our own transport LAUNCHED
Tel: Mike Vickers 914 595 696 Tel 927 364 157/927 168 059

Page 39

Eastalgarve_Issue1.indd 39 27/11/08 15:00:34


GUESTHOUSE, BAR & BISTRO
QUINTA
QUINTA FONTE
FONTE DO
DO BISPO
BISPO
CAR BOOT SALE CHRISTMAS DINNER
Every 4th Sunday in the month for groups of 4 or more people
10.00 – 14.00 – same day as the during the two weeks leading up to
Santa Catarina market. Christmas for 25 Euros per person.
CHRISTMAS BAZAAR NEW YEARS EVE PARTY
6th December 11.00 – 16.00
Wednesday 31st December 55 Euros
CAROL SINGING per person for a three course meal
Wednesday 17th December and drinks, followed by cabaret and
19.00 – 21.00, followed by the Quiz dancing. PLEASE BOOK EARLY

SUNDAY CARVERY
STARTING SUNDAY 18TH JAN ‘09, from 1pm
A selection of meats, vegetables, roast
potatoes and yorkshire pudding.
ONLY €10 PER PERSON
For information and reservations please call us on 281 971 484,
visit us on the EN270 near Sta Catarina, email info@qtfontebispo.com
or see our website www.qtfontebispo.com
Eastalgarve_Issue1.indd 40 27/11/08 15:00:39

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