Move Portugal - A Place in the Sun

In the ‘Place in the Sun’ September issue MovePortugal gave a helping hand to a couple who were looking for a holiday rental property in Portugal’s Silver Coast.

Their article presents four properties to Mark & Kerry who wanted a holiday home for their young family plus they wanted a return on their investment from rental income and capital growth. Prior to the actual event the research team from the magazine contacted us and gave us their run down as to the type of property they wanted to show the young couple, to be honest their budget was low for what they required, but as always we dug deep and gave them a selection of properties to choose from. The exclusive MovePortugal property they selected was over their budget of €100,000, but it ticked all the boxes. On the day Sharon Clarke, the manager of MovePortugal took them to show the property and with her knowledge of the local property market and the land and building permits of the property Sharon advised the clients of the possibilities with the property and the 10,000 m2 plot. The young couple fell in love with the property and decided to put in an offer based on Sharon’s hunch. And she was right the owner accepted the offer and Mark & Kerry got an absolute bargain!!

MovePortugal have many success stories like this to tell. We can help you find a villa, a renovation project, an investment property, a plot of land to build your own house or even a small restaurant or bar to start your own business. With over 500 properties on our books in the Silver Coast and over 7 years of living experience in this wonderful party of the world we can assure you that we will always try to give you the best advice!

http://www.aplaceinthesun.com/magazine/september-2008

Amendment to the PDM allows private hospital in Nazare

In order to allow the installation of a health unit of private capital in a land of 30 hectares located in the Royal Path, in Pederneira, the City Council of Nazare has initiated a process to amend the Municipal Director Plan (PDM).

This amendment, advanced by the local authority announced and approved at meeting of a municipal executive in the past day August 11, focuses on the land chosen for the location of the new hospital of the future, addressed in the PDM by two different classifications, one part in the area of tourist development of the town, and the other in forested areas. The use of the land should now be done, with equipment assigned to the occupation of collective nature of regional relevance, in an amendment to PDM which will articulate itself with the plans, projects and programmes under way for that zone, from which stand out the first review PDM and the Urban Plan of Pederneira.

The municipality justifies this amendment to the "strategic importance of the investment" that represents the installation of a hospital in Nazare, vanguard - with cutting-edge technology and part of research - and its proximity to the future variant of the National Road 242 and the IC9. Another argument raised is that, in addition to not allow the construction unit of health, the PDM currently in force no longer corresponds "to the current strategy of tourism development of Nazare, which now passes through areas such as S. Giao, Caixins and North Beach, "where the detailed plans are already underway.

To discuss the changes in the PDM the municipality will allow a period of 15 days of participation, with suggestions for the formulation and submission of relevant information. It follows a period of 180 days to make the necessary and final changes.

It is recalled that the hospital to be constructed is a result of a protocol between the City of Nazare and the Chamber of Commerce Israel-Portuguese and represents an investment which amounts to 100 million. The area of deployment of the building, which should take a bold appearance, will occupy about 10 square meters.

French Football Star does TV commercial at Beaches of Peniche (Silver Coast – Portugal)

The former French international Bixente Lizarazu, the world champion in 1998 and European in 2000 for the national team of French football is the head star of a television ad that was recorded last week on the beach of Cova da Alfarroba, in Peniche.

Surrounded by kids of various national football clubs, Lizarazu, who left the competition early this year, appears to play the ball on the beach, when the group hears a noise and notes that this is a family that behind the dunes is a picnic and enjoy themselves with a kind of chocolate cream - the Danete, a product of French agro-food group Danone.

That is the story of the "spot" recorded over two days in Portugal and will only be shown on French television. A strategy that is not new in Danone, which has used Luis Figo to advertise the same product.

Six times winner of the Bundesliga for Bayern Munich, Lizarazu, who also played in Bordeaux, in Bilbao and Atletico de Marseilles, announced his farewell in 2006 four days after Zinedine Zidane did the same, but only left professional football on January 1 this year.

The passageway of Lizarazu by Portugal was very discreet.

The other athletes of the ad were chosen from football schools, because some participants had to show us that they knew how to play football. Salome, of ten years, is the only girl to show football skills. "She is a bit timid but is pleased to have been chosen," said mother, Maria Joao.
With executive producer of the Tagus Films company, contracted by the French agency Bollywood, the ad will last about twenty seconds.

The choice of Portugal for the recording of the ad was due to the fact that it is cheaper. The search of the place was made through the Internet and came to place the possibility of recordings taking place in Praia do Meco, option abandoned in favour of the beach Cova, da Alfarroba at Peniche (Silver Coast –Portugal), taking advantage of the long sandy peninsula of Baleal with the landscape to be lost sight of, and the existing dunes. The recordings took place outside the concealed area and far the eyes of the turists.

The production was supported by the City Council and the Capitania of the Port of Peniche, bringing together a "staff" of around 60 people.

XXV Festival of Portuguese Wine (Silver Coast - Portugal)

The oldest wine event in the country, the Portuguese Wine Festival, is back at Bombarral (Silver Coast - Portugal), between days 19 and 27 of July.

Created in the 60s, the 1st Festival/ Exhibition of Portuguese Wine, as designated at the time, usually ran, as was reported at the time by the newspaper "Echos of Bombarral," between the days 6 and 9 of October.

Conducting as a non continued for some years, was from the year 1993, when the 10th edition, showed that the event was definitely affirming annually, assuming itself as a national event.

The 25th edition of the Portuguese Wine Festival, apart from being a high point of life for this event, it should also be understood as "a moment of reflection on the contribution of this event for the development and the dynamics of wine in Bombarral and across the Silver Coast in general, states the municipality promoter.

"Apart from a moment of celebration around the wine, the Portuguese Wine Festival is also an excellent vehicle for promotion, placing the county, the west region and Bombarral in the calendar of regional and national tours," notes.

According to the Board "from year to year the event has grown in a sustained and eventually asserting itself in the national scene, as one of the key events for the promotion and dissemination of national wines. This is evidenced by the increase of participants and the high number of visitors, who have during the event had opportunity to participate in wine tastes, buy good wines at more inviting prices, to attend various cultural and music shows and enjoy the local cuisine the traditional offers of the small local pubs. "

Over the years the Portuguese Wine Festival has had the ambition to raise its quality, contributing to disclose the name of Bombarral throughout the country and the good wines that are produced in the area as well as nation wide.

Painting’s of Jose Figueira at the Cultural Center of Nazare (Silver Coast – Portugal)

The painter Jose Figueira exhibits from July, the 5th, some of his work in the town which is his place of birth. Until July 20, at the Cultural Center of Nazare, an exhibition of oil paintings of naturalist inspiration, where aspects as sunlight, the setting sun shades and colours of fruit are focused the most.

Self learner, Jose Figueira began to paint in the eighties. Only after his retirement did he devoted himself full time to painting and has participated in several exhibitions, both individual and collective, with some of his works incorporating private collections in Portugal and abroad.

Now you can see some of his work in the building of the former fish market Nazarene, an organization of the local city hall, between 10.00 and 24.00 hours on working days and 15.00 and 24.00 for week-end and holidays, as the Cultural Center closes for lunch from 13:00 to 15:00 and for dinner from 19:00 to 21:00.

Fiscal incentives for good construction policies (Silver Coast - Portugal)

The City Hall of Obidos (Silver Coast - Portugal) is finalising a regulation of tax incentives for buildings that are made taking into account its sustainability. These incentives translate themselves into reductions in the amount of tax payable on the Municipal buildings or other fees.

This measure appears through the project Obidos Social Carbon, which aims to implement 24 measures that have as their main objective to contribute to 40% fall in emissions of greenhouse gases by 2020.

The announcement was made by Humberto Marques, councillor for the Environment, during a seminar devoted to the Environment and Nature, sponsored by the Obidos School of Advanced Studies of Tourism (ETUR) in the auditorium of the House of Music, June 27. This regulation is now being finished and will be released anytime soon.

During the seminar, were presented by Luis Rodrigues, the new courses of this school, which are "Eco tourism and Energy Certification", "Best Practices for Energy and Water Management in Tourism" and "Waste Management and Waste Water Treatment."

The first course has the duration of 16 hours (for two Saturdays) and plans to address the bio-climatic architecture, which allows substantial savings in energy consumption of buildings. This happens through air conditioning, lighting and ventilation. The course has the price of 195 euros.
The course of "Best Practices for Energy and Water Management in Tourism" is to the fact the invoice to pay for these two aspects in hotels is very high. "The costs of energy and water occupy the second place of bills to be paid on lodging, then human resources," said Luis Rodrigues.

The trainees will be able to structure a system for a tourism organization that includes details on the management of energy and water. The price of tuition is 97.50 euros (eight hours).

The third course aims to respond to growing legislative requirements in the area of waste and water treatment

The completion of these courses is subject to the number of entries received. Luis Rodrigues stressed that the courses are practical, so people will know what and how to do.

Blue Flag for Beach of Porto Dinheiro (Silver Coast - Portugal)

During an inspection carried out by technicians of CCDRLVT and Health Centre to several beaches in the county of Lourinha (Silver Coast - Portugal), on June 20, a Blue Flag was awarded to the beach of Porto Dinheiro and the award of Accessibility for the Beach of Peralta.

The allocation of the Blue Flag for the Beach of Valmitao is dependent on an opinion of the company Lisconcebe, which had a project, awarded by the Institute of Water (INAG), for improving the local security conditions in this seaside resort. According to the planned, the City has made interventions related to the protection of cliffs, with a defined perimeter security for the fall of objects, with the construction of a ditch and putting a protective net at the base of the cliff.

Regarding the flag of Accessible Beach - which certifies the quality of access for disabled citizens - the beaches of Areal and Areia Branca may also receive this award, whose assignment is dependent on the replacement of portable toilets therein.

Fair of S. Pedro already attracts crowds (Silver Coast - Portugal)

200 thousand visitors are expected at the "Fair of San Pedro" which opened its doors on June 26 in the Regional Park of Exhibitions, in Torres Vedras (Silver Coast - Portugal), and will run until July 6 and has registered a great turnout in the first days.

The Fair of San Pedro is one of the major “general” fairs held in Portugal," according to the organization.

This year has "more than 400 commercial exhibitors, areas of restaurants, small pubs and bars with specific animation, entertainment and traditional fairground."

Causing the “buzz” this year is the the area of restoration, with kitchen facilities and renewed daily service from lunch, in addition to traditional dinners and operation of terraces night outside.

Six new spaces near the Multi Pavilion were also created, the spot where takes place Fair’s main animations.

The headliner of this year’s programme of the event animation is a traditional bullfight, promoted by the Commission, which strives to help the Association of Volunteer Firemen of Torres Vedras.

The younger will rely on "aimed animation, with inflatable, sculptors, balloons, face-painting and caricaturists."

Local and regional pole of coexistence of the traditional and modern ways, the Fair of S. Pedro is, according to organisation "a demonstration of business savvy as well as overall strength of the region."

Hunt with bow and beast is novelty in Medieval Market

The recreation of a medieval hunt and the presence of historical recreation group camps, from six European countries, are the news for this year's edition of the Medieval Market of Obidos (Silver Coast – Portugal), to be held from 10 to 20 of July, with the theme "Love and War - The Light and Darkness."

Hunting is a exciting activity aimed at a young audience and that is a game where participants (by turn or as a team), dressed at the time and armed with crossbows or bows, will have to look in a large wooded area, bounded by a string for security reasons, several targets in three dimensions represent traditional animals, looking for scoring, hitting at a distance of twelve meters. This activity is subject to a paid membership.

In view of such activities and regarding the need to meet the needs of many thousands of visitors, the existing Town Park of Obidos situated in the south, will be used, increasing significantly the area usually occupied.

The “tasquinhas” (small restaurants) will be disseminated through the enclosure. The area used for the medieval hunt will be in an area near the wooded area of Lica. The Mocharro area will be adapted for animation purposes.

Like last year, the entrance of the premises will remain the Port of Talhada and the output will be the Port of Santiago.

In contrast to the camps area, which represent the most rural and military aspects of the middle Ages, in the area of the Fence will be mounted a stage, designed to recreate the daily life of a medieval city.

On July 19, at 9 o’clock of the afternoon, will be held a parade/ contest of medieval costumes, which should correspond to the ones used in the European continent during the XII, XIII and XIV centuries, and may represent any economic and social class of that period.

The three best costumes will be distinguished, with the costume better classified being awarded with the offer of a voucher for purchases worth 500 euros in the company's products "The Master of Arms".

The daily ticket costs five euros and is free to local citizens, children under twelve years and people dressed according to the Medieval times.

The event runs on day 10 from 18:00 to 24:00 and in the remaining working days from 17.00 to 24.00 and the week-end from 12.00 to 24.00.

Silver Coast – Portugal hosts 2nd National Congress of Biological Agriculture

INTERBIO, Inter-professional Association for Biological/Organic Agriculture, is organising the 2nd National Congress of Organic Agriculture on day 24 and 25 of June in Torres Vedras (Silver Coast –Portugal), with the support of Naturlink.

The Congress enjoys the High Patronage of the Presidency of the Republic, and its opening session was chaired by Armando Sevinate Pinto, Advisor for Agriculture, matters to the President of the Republic, and the closing session will be chaired by Jaime Silva, Minister for Agriculture, Rural Development and Fisheries.

The intention with this event is to bring together the entire Portuguese professional sector of organic agriculture for reflection and through discussion of all matters that relate to this sector and which aim to enhance and consolidate its development. To this end, the first day of Congress is reserved exclusively for professionals of organic farming in all sectors: production, processing, marketing and services. This day will surely send a message of affirmation of the organic farming sector and the definition of its strategic lines.

Half a million euros in promotional campaign

From next July further, the proposals for tourist animation in the West Region - Portugal (Silver Coast of Portugal included), will emerge to the eyes of the Portuguese, especially in Lisbon and Oporto, an investment of "approximately half a million euros that could double by next year, with support from municipalities and private initiative", revealed Bernardo Trindade, secretary of state for tourism, while presenting the programme at the Municipalities Association of the West-AMO headquarters.

"Everything New at the West/The All-New West - a destination to Discover" is the motto of the campaign that will present the Portuguese with 36 events of the twelve counties of the Western Region of Portugal.

Among other changes, in promotional leaflets, is the cake of chocolate in a reference to the Chocolate Festival of Obidos, replacing other traditional sweets of the region, or the four wheel motorcycle next to a horse, the sea with a kite-surfer, golf, Wines and carnival.

Silver Coast - Portugal hosts International Golf Meeting

These days Portugal is a top reference golf destination in Europe. The quality and diversity of their courses (many of them signed by names of world reference), the quality / price ratio, the know-how existing operating, and the climate and safety factors are competitive at the destination. “This is one conclusion of the first International Meeting of Golf, held in Praia d'El Rey Marriott Golf & Beach Resort at Obidos on days 5 and 6 of June.

The event, sponsored by the Tourism Agency of Portugal, also concluded that "it is essential that the supply of golf presents himself as a distinctive and integrated experience" and that for that to happen "are the various dimensions to be taken into account", namely " the landscape of exception, the design of the field as part of that leverage and a landscape of golf unforgettable experience, the icons of the distinctive environment, quality and customization of services available to golfers, quality and variety of supplementary provision, aimed primarily to their associates, knowledge of the market and promoting the destination, cooperation in the organization of supply, the media exposure - of fields (such as areas of unique experiences), the sport (as sport in harmony with nature) and international sport events (demonstrating the quality and reputation of the destination) ".

Moreover, it is intended that there are "increasing the number of Portuguese players," pointing to as "essential to ensure sustainable development of existing supply," so that "the municipalities, the sports structures, the golf courses and administration are required to find the best solutions for boosting domestic demand for golf. "

The chairman of the Portuguese Golf Federation, Manuel Agrellos, recalled that, while there are about 70 million golf players in the world, in Portugal there are only 20 thousand.

The chairman of the agency Tourism of Portugal, Luis Patrao, revealed that the country will have by 2010 a hundred golf courses, making Portugal a qualified destination for golf.

Also present at the meeting, Severiano Ballesteros, who was one of the best players in the world, praised the quality of golf courses in Portugal.

The Spanish ensured that he ended his long and brilliant career in professional golf, not even seeing the possibility of playing in the Senior Tour (for players over 50). He now dedicates himself to family and drawing golf courses.

European tour operators visit the Silver Coast, Portugal

On days 1, 2 and 3, of June, took place a professional visit to the Silver Coast and West region of Portugal, by 20 tour operators from several European countries, particularly Germany, United Kingdom, Finland, Sweden, Denmark, Slovakia, the Czech Republic and Spain.

It was undertaken in cooperation with tour operator in Portugal DMC, one of the largest suppliers of customers for the western region.

At the choice of the DMC, the hotel Marriott Beach d 'El Rey, in Obidos, hosted large part of the event, where he held a workshop between "vendors / suppliers", also extended to companies in the area of Estoril and the Blue Coast.

Were also visited the Westin Hotel Campo Real and its golf course, the Quinta do Sanguinhal, where there was a wine tasting, Obidos and the bar Ibn Errik Rex, where he was sampled the ginja (cherry liquor) of Obidos, the Golden Eagle golf course, the Bom Sucesso golf course design, to open in September, the Laguna de Obidos and Cape Carvoeiro. There was still time for a golf tournament in Praia d'El Rey Golf Resort.

These promotional trips fall into the philosophy of bringing the Silver Coast, West Region to the eyes, ears and stomach of some of the top European tourism operators.

Urban Golf at Silver Coast – Portugal

Next Saturday, the lovers of golf will have another opportunity to test their dexterity in an environment very different from usual, on the Island of Baleal (Peniche, Silver Coast –Portugal).

The Urban Golf is based on traditional golf, but this is practiced in an urban setting and with some adjustments. The players exchanged the fields with a space under construction, a parking lot or a street. Creativity, irreverence, innovation are some of the concepts that make this sport a growing one in Portugal.

The intention to promote this practice is not to achieve the glamour of the sport, but to stimulate interest and promote the considerable increase of practitioners and followers of golf, especially young ones. The goal is also to put together a Portuguese team of excellence in order to promote the first European Cup.

The receipt of all stakeholders to participate in a maximum of 80, is made in the Surf Castle in Baleal, by 14:00, where are all available resources and all the information. The inscription has a cost of 20 euros and entitles the use of bat, all of 12 balls and tees, an entry to the concert of the Festival Flavours of the Sea (DapunkSportif and Blasted Mechanism), merchandising of the Festival, among other offerings.

Planning of the Silver Coast - Portugal upon public discussion

Until August 4th is underway the public discussion of the Regional Plan of Territorial Planning of the West and Tagus Valley (PROT-OVT), covering the sub-regions of the West, Middle Leziria and Mid Tagus region, which together make fore more of than 800 thousand inhabitants spread over 8 792 square kilometres and 33 municipalities of the districts of Leiria, Santarem and Lisbon.
The document was drafted over 18 months, with the participation of regional and national entities represented in the Joint Committee on Coordination (CMC), 11 plenary meetings and 26 meetings of working groups.

The technical teams, consisting of bodies and specialists in each area, made an analysis of each sector, both in terms of diagnosis, and the vision and strategic options of the plan, from agriculture to socio-economy, tourism and the conservation of nature to mobility.

For the first time a diagnosis was made of energy issues in the region, which has concluded that the West and Tagus Valley has the potential to increase by 40 percent its energy autonomy, based on their own and renewable sources (80% in electricity).
The document now subject to public discussion outlines the diagnosis of the West and Tagus Valley and proposes a vision and strategic options for its development over the next decade. The plan will be delivered to the government in September this year and place for ten years after its publication.

Were studied four strategic priorities, based mainly on competitiveness (axis 1 - win the challenge of innovation, competitiveness and internationalization), in recovery (axis 2 - leverage the territorial vocations within a framework of environmental sustainability), as (axis 3 - achieving polycentric vision and enhance the quality of urban life) and multifunctionality (axis 4 - discover the new rural ways of life).

It is expected investment of 2.8 billion euros in major projects over the ten-year period. Implementation of the plan will have a follow-up committee, supported by an observatory team.
Among the projects is the proposed rail link between the New Airport of Lisbon and the line of the North (Cartaxo / Santarem), possibly taking advantage of the channel's line of Setil, thereby creating a new axis of development and modernization into the interior of the line of the West.

The document of OVT-PROT can be found in http://consulta-protovt.inescporto.pt. At this site is also available a form for submission of contributions by all stakeholders to participate. They will also be promoted three sessions decentralised public, open to all interested parties.

International Horse Jumping Competition

This Thursday, May 29, 2008 begins the edition of the Vimeiro jumping competition, at the Horse Riding Center of the Golf Mar Hotel (Silver Coast-Portugal).

It is one of the 70 most important competitions of the international circuit, in a universe of 3700 competitions authorized by the International Equestrian Federation, named for the qualification of the Olympic Games of Beijing 2008 and the Championship of Europe 2009

The CSI of four stars and a Prize Money of 165 thousand Euros, the largest awarded so far in the Vimeiro jumping competition, are the big news of this year's edition.

The 2008 season, which has Margarida Pinto Correia and Luis Represas as special guests, includes a total of six competitions - four international, one national and the championship of Portugal - which is held between May 29^th and October 5^th.

The first CSI, the 4 star Vimeiro runs from May 29^th and June 1^st. The capacity of 260 horses is already filled, assuring largest and best-ever participation in the Vimeiro-jumping competitions. In addition to belonging to the Portuguese Equestrian Tour, this contest is qualifying for the Olympic Games in Beijing in 2008 and the Championship of Europe in 2009.

This circuit has its first edition in 2008, and it started with the CSIO 5 * of Lisbon, following after Vimeiro for CSI 4 * Ponte de Lima, CSI 4 * of Portimao and ends within a month, with the CSI 4 * of Vilamoura. This dynamic initiative surely puts Portugal as a prime destination of choice for horse riding in the international scene, favouring the Portuguese Tourism.

In this contest are represented 18 countries, among which stand out jocks Caytano Martinez de Irujo (ESP), Robert and Ellen Whitaker (ENG), Francois Mathy Jr. (BEL), Henk Van de Pol and Leon Thijssen (NED), Billu Twomey and Cameron Hanley (IRL), Pedro Andarade (Brazil) and the Portuguese Joao Chuva, Sabino Goncalves and three times national champ Marina Frutuoso de Melo.

One of the attractions of the combined jumps of Vimeiro Contests will be the "Kid Center”. With 700 m², animators and several activities, and teaching for all children who visit the Riding Centre these days.

Fishing port of Ericeira to be improved

The upgrading work on the fishing port of Ericeira (Silver Coast-Portugal) began yesterday afternoon after the signing of the consignment of the work, valued at ten million, who chaired a ceremony to the Minister of Public Works, Mario Lino.

The work is the consolidation and construction of the jetty-north pier that will have 430 meters, 60 meters more, giving a "more robust profile," assured Natercia Cabral, President of the Port of Maritime Transport - IPTM.

In construction will be used blocks of 30 and 40 tonnes, approximately double the previous, creating "a curtain that passes six to eight meters in height." The bottom of the port will be dredged, being planned dredging of 27 cubic meters inside the port and the placing of 55 cubic meters of rocks.

According to the responsible, work comes in the wake of the Planning Director of the Port of Ericeira, drawn up in 2001/03, when it was decided to proceed with the first phase of work leading to the stage of testing by the National Laboratory of Civil Engineering-LNEC in 2004.

For the second phase of the work has already been launched last week for initiating the project in order to stop at the same time that the work now begun "three years from now" said the minister.

"Fishing has declined much but we have new activities devoted to nautical tourism and we will have put 200-boat (one hundred at sea and one hundred at land) and in a short time, three years, everything will be ready," assured Mario Lino .

Students of the Tourism School were awarded

Cristina Cordeiro, attending the course of post-secondary training in techniques of Tourism, and Valter Ribeiro, attending the Advanced Course in Pastry (also post-secondary, first and only offer of training in this area throughout the country), are students of the Tourism and Hotel School of the West – Obidos (Silver Coast - Portugal), and were in the spotlight at the Inter-School’s of Tourism of Portugal Contest, held at the premises of the Tourism and Hotel School of Lamego, from 7 to May 9.

In the open area of tourism, Cristina Cordeiro was the winner, demonstrating technical skills, professional and relational that, in addition to guarantee her first place immediately put in focus the work of the Obidos School at EHT Oeste, which only began their activities two years ago.

This student will represent the Tourism Schools of Portugal in the competition for tourism, called the meeting of the European Association of Tourism Schools (international training contests), to be held in Kuressare, Estonia, in October this year.

In the area of Pastry, Valter Ribeiro failed to achieve the first place (the prize went to a student of the local Tourism School of Lamego), but the creativity demonstrated by this couple led the jury to make an exception and for the first time in these competitions, the Tourism of Portugal distinguished a competitor with a Honourable Mention.

Valter Ribeiro is a native of Alfandega da Fe, relocated to Obidos with the specific purpose of attending the Advanced Course of Pastry, for it is only in this town that there is the possibility of obtaining a professional qualification at level IV in Pastry.

Students of the Tourism School were awarded

Cristina Cordeiro, attending the course of post-secondary training in techniques of Tourism, and Valter Ribeiro, attending the Advanced Course in Pastry (also post-secondary, first and only offer of training in this area throughout the country), are students of the Tourism and Hotel School of the West – Obidos (Silver Coast - Portugal), and were in the spotlight at the Inter-School’s of Tourism Contest of Portugal , held at the premises of the Tourism and Hotel School of Lamego, from 7 to May 9.

In the open area of tourism, Cristina Cordeiro was the winner, demonstrating technical skills, professional and relational that, in addition to guarantee her first place immediately put in focus the work of the Obidos School at EHT Oeste, which only began their activities two years ago.

This student will represent the Tourism Schools of Portugal in the competition for tourism, called the meeting of the European Association of Tourism Schools (international training contests), to be held in Kuressare, Estonia, in October this year.

In the area of Pastry, Valter Ribeiro failed to achieve the first place (the prize went to a student of the local Tourism School of Lamego), but the creativity demonstrated by this couple led the jury to make an exception and for the first time in these competitions, the Tourism of Portugal distinguished a competitor with a Honourable Mention.

Valter Ribeiro is a native of Alfandega da Fe, relocated to Obidos with the specific purpose of attending the Advanced Course of Pastry, for it is only in this town that there is the possibility of obtaining a professional qualification at level IV in Pastry.

New Marina for Ericeira, Silver Coast - Portugal

Great news for all you sailors!

The Minister of Public Works, Transport and Communications, Mario Lino, will chair the ceremony for awarding the work to repair the Fishing Port of Ericeira, where their will be presented the project of the future Marina of Ericeira, next Monday at 5 o’clock in the afternoon, informed Joaquim Casado, chairman of the Board of the local council of Ericeira.

It is a work that comes "after forty years of waiting, desolation and sadness, bitterness and lack of confidence," declared the president of the local council, for whom "there are a number of adjectives associated with all this, and fishermen of Ericeira still do not believe."

And on that occasion will be revealed, the project of the future "Marina of Ericeira."

The IPTM - the Port and Maritime Transport Institute "will bring the responsible projector and will submit to put up for discussion, observation and analysis of fishermen and Ericeira locals, the development of the so-called Marina of Ericeira, with the construction of the south pier," said Joaquim Casado.

Currently there are two hundred people who are dedicated to the various maritime activities, and professional fishermen are about eighty.

The Silver Coast of Portugal continues to take the right steps to fulfil the potential recognized for ages.

The “Neighbour Fest” is back at Nazare

The council of Nazare (Silver Coast – Portugal) is going to organize a “Neighbour Fest” once again, an initiative to celebrate the European Day of Neighbours, which marks the next day, May the 27th.

To this end, the population of the county is invited, through the organization of the “Neighbour Fest” - in the street, in the courtyard of the urbanization, in the garden of the house, anywhere. Groups of neighbours interested in joining this initiative can make the inscription at the City Council or for more information through telephone 262550010.

The Neighbours' Day was first celebrated in France in 1999 with the aim of promoting relations of proximity, promoting solidarity and to combat the isolation increasingly common in urban areas, through the simple idea of a meeting of neighbours around the table.

Only in 2002 was to be reported as a European day, with the entry of Belgium and Switzerland. In the following years, more countries have joined this initiative and by 2007, seven million citizens, throughout Europe, were in the street with their neighbours.

Nazare participated last year for the first time, with a very positive balance sheet. Some 300 people joined the initiative and promoted various parties, and almost everywhere in town, animated by the Philharmonic Association of Nazare (which this year will also be responsible for the musical animation).

The “Neighbour Fest”, in Portugal, is an organization of the Portuguese Committee for the Coordination of Social Housing.

Old ways at Nazare

The xavega art (fishing technique) is one of the more traditional types of fishing of Nazare (Silver Coast - Portugal), and will return to the beach every Saturday afternoon, from May the 17th till the end of June.

Promoted by the city of Nazare and the Tourism Region of Leiria/ Fatima, in collaboration with the Commercial, Industrial and Local Services Association, this initiative is the reconstitution of the rituals of the xavega art, which fell into disuse in recent decades because of technological developments and the new economic and legal contexts of the sector.

The recreation is made by a local group who came to practice this art. As in other times, the fishing nets are being thrown back in the morning in areas off the coast, known as "lances" (known by fishermen as special spots, called by signs of land and sea). By late afternoon, there is the extended net work - pulled from the beach, by fishermen and fish saleswomen, in what is the most emblematic moment of the xavega art.

The fish caught is then sold in a spontaneous auction on the beach in front of the Sousa Oliveira Plaza, in reconstitution of the old processes of sale, with the traditional "chui", the signal that closed the purchase.

Preserving the collective memory through the dissemination of maritime culture, contributing to the strengthening of local identity, is the main objective of rebuilding the xavega art, which also has become in recent years, a major tourist poster of the region.

The xavega art will be held on Saturdays, till the end of June, if state of the sea and weather conditions permit so. The high point of recreation takes place by 5 P.M., with extended net pulling in the sand, in the area in front of the local Tourism Office of Nazare.

Culture and Congress Centre, the CCC!

At the first hours of May the 15th, at about 20 past midnight, the Culture and Congress Centre (CCC) of Caldas da Rainha (Silver Coast –Portugal) for the first time opened its doors to the general population and made itself known as the most emblematic work of the past years in the county.

This is an investment of 18 million euros in equipment of "unique characteristics and relevance to a statement of strategy, creation, production and dissemination of cultural, artistic, business and tourism", considers the municipality.

"There are few spaces with the characteristics that the Cultural Centre has and can offer. Aiming to be a reference in the country and probably internationally, "said the representative Mayor of Culture, Maria da Conceicao.

A student of music, named Jorge Rodrigues, author of the unofficial blog of the CCC on the Internet that "the implementation of the CCC fills the empty space of a fully dedicated building to culture in the county of Caldas da Rainha." "With the overthrow of the House of Culture and demolition of the Theatre Pinheiro Chagas, the auditorium of Pimpoes was for more than two decades, the only room of shows at the service of the county, a true public service to culture. However it was necessary, required a place with better acoustics, of larger dimensions and better technical conditions ", refers.

For the City Council, the CCC "will be a place of discovery, innovation, debate and education for culture in its most diverse areas and demonstrations, for all movements, from Classic to Alternative."

"This is a project that calls for the combination of values between the business, tourism, culture, the arts and entertainment, bringing more diverse cultural products of their public, with the aim of promoting the welfare of the population and development forming into a new paradigm of opportunity", maintains, adding that "it is also why the CCC presents itself as a place of unique conditions for the holding of congresses, conferences and professional meetings."

Silver Coast can now host the best shows and that makes for a even more interesting place to live!

New property solutions

The Royal Obidos Golf Resort (Silver Coast – Portugal) will be one of the two ventures of the group Ocean in Portugal that will adopt a new solution of fractional ownership, in which it will be possible unlimited use of housing and services associated within the group.

This solution, called Prestige Fractional Ocean, is also available for residential units of Vilamoura Golf Resort & Garden and will be presented in London.

In traditional fractional ownership acquired the property can only be used on specific dates, being unavailable the rest of the year to be leased and explored.

In this alternative to each "villa" are associated eight owners, who may use unlimited, more flexible, units of five stars of the group Ocean, and access to concierge service, transfers, a golf club, among others.

This flexible fractional ownership already has been practised since 1992 in the USA, where the group Ocean as part of this solution provides the Little River Golf & Resort (in North Carolina).

In the Portuguese market, the flexible fractional ownership will be available in Vilamoura, from 250 thousand euros per fraction, and in Obidos, from 175 thousand euros per fraction,

The Royal Obidos Golf Resort is a partnership between the MSF and the Ocean Group, has been classified by the Portuguese Agency for Investment with the status of Project of National Interest (PIN).

The venture will have a golf course designed by Severiano Ballesteros and includes a hotel and holiday villages of four and five stars. It is still scheduled to be built with a club-house facilities for leisure, golf academy, tennis club, Spa and Health Club, multipurpose sports area, country club with room for nursery and children's games, cyber cafe, library, restaurant and bar and shopping.

Built on an area of 130 hectares, the Royal Obidos provides for the construction of 620 residential units and 2,252 beds, whose development will be divided into several phases. The planned total investment is 160 million.

Silver Coast sees high level Surfing

Peniche (Silver Coast – Portugal) hosted the Rip Curl Pro Junior surfing championship at the beach of Supertubos assured of world-class waves.

This year the event, originally scheduled for four days, had only three, after a joint decision with the organisation, Rip Curl, and the four athletes in the semi-final. Instead the decision to postpone the last day of waiting time, decided to end while there still where waves, at a time when the sea gave up a jump - a gift of more great waves from Peniche, as throughout the competition, and did not failed to appear at a time when the four best surfers of the event where found.

The semi-finals were held in French, by Maxime Huscenot and Marc Lacomare, France, and Medi Verminardi and Adrien Toyon, Reunion Islands, which were the athletes most in form throughout the championship, and in the last heat of the day, easily showed why
They put out a great show for the finals, hard fought, between Medi and Marc, ending a victory smile by the latter.

Medi Verminardi known for his extreme kindness and professionalism, coupled with a huge stamina for surfing. The youngster from Reunion Island made much of the championship injured, having twisted the foot on the first day of competition, and still reached the final, even though he was limping from the beach: "I am very happy, I made it to the end, even a little injured, but this is a wave that I love. Where you can make great tubes, or than when it is small, because I love when I can make many manoeuvres and Peniche offers all kinds of ramps, it seems like a skate park."

For Marc Lacomare the victory was very important and was dedicated to his mother’s birthday. This result is very important for the intentions of Lacomare, aimed to be the next European champion: "This victory makes me feel very happy, I can hardly wait for the next event, these waves in Peniche helped very much, it was always possible to find a tube, a section to blast, or a wave with sufficient quality to make a contest here."

The three Portuguese who were better classified all lost in quarter-finals of heats with four men - Frederico Morais, Cesar Rosa and Vasco Ribeiro all finished equal 13th place, which is a result to improve in the future, but which can now count to fight for the top spots of the international Pro Junior circuit.

Antonio Pedro, from Alfarroba, organizer of the event, was very happy with the championship held, even if forced to cut one day of competition: "Great sun, many waves, very good surfing, and an opportunity for the Portuguese surfers to compete with the best waves and the best surfers. The beach of Supertubos was always packed with fans, with many following an event that will remain in the memory of surfers and surf fans alike, for many years to come."

Silver Coast and sport tourism, the best combination for the smart real estate investor

1st International Meeting of Golf

The Tourism of Portugal promotes from the 5^th till the 6^th of June, in Obidos (Silver Coast –Portugal), the 1^st International Meeting of Golf - Portugal, a destination of competitive golf. At the meeting will be presented cases of national and international success in the design and management of golf courses and promoting the country as a competitive destination for the practice of the sport.

The meeting is aimed at entrepreneurs, investors, managers and other industry players of the golf course, between public and private entities, and with the attendance of Secretary of State for Tourism, Bernardo Trindade, President of Tourism of Portugal, Luis Patrao, the chairman of the Tourist Region of the West, Antonio Carneiro, President of the Portuguese Golf Federation, Manuel Agrellos, and the Deputy Minister of Environment, Spatial Planning and Regional Development, Maria da Graca Saraiva.

During two days, the Praia d'El Rey Marriott Golf & Beach Resort in Obidos, receives conferences of several personalities of reference of the sport, as Severiano Ballesteros.

The international meeting falls within the National Strategic Plan for Tourism (PENT) that defined golf as one of ten products which will increase the development of domestic tourism.

Silver Coast better connected

On May, the 14th, The Minister of Public workings will inaugurate the new section of highway A17, which will extend the connection of the previous motorway, which begins in Marinha Grande, by Mira, in the coastal district of Coimbra.

The works of the section that will connect Lourical (which ends up to now) to Mira were visited in April by the governor, who said that the inauguration would be marked at the time.

As the A17 has a direct link to motorway A8, in Marinha Grande, the completion of these 60 kilometres will bring Lisbon and the entire Silver Coast and west region to that area, with particular reference to Figueira da Foz.

The motorway of the Centre will be a complement to A1 and an alternative to IC 2 and to EN 109.

With an investment of 353 million euros, the last leg of the A17 will produce between two to three routes in each direction, eight viaducts - among them the new bridge over the Mondego river - 50 overpasses and seven lower, a toll in Mira, an area of service and another area of support.

A year ago, also in May, had been inaugurated the first section of the motorway of the Central Coast (A17) between Marinha Grande and Lourical, county of Pombal, including the connection to Monte Real in the county of Leiria.

Traditional Cherry Liquor of Portugal

The Ginja (cherry liquor) M.S.R. Alcobaca emerged in the decade of the 20’s of the twentieth century by the hands of Manuel de Sousa Ribeiro, challenging the traditional homemade cherry liquor’s that fell outside Alcobaca, especially in the monastery of Santa Maria, proposed to make the best of liquors.

Known mainly for its bottle, of a conical shape, the Ginja MSR follows the formula of a single manufacturing, which remains unchanged until today, a craft process. For the rich flavour of liquor ruby ring smoothness contributes to the quality of the fruit manually collected only once a year in the area of Alcobaca and neighbouring counties, and the secular tradition of the Cistercian monks, who took advantage of the temperate climate and unique conditions in the region, strongly influenced by the proximity of the sea.

The history, characteristics and curiosities of what is already one of the symbols of Alcobaca, truly appreciated by thousands of tourists who pass throughout the year, are now on the Internet, on a site created by the company responsible for its production.

At www.ginja.pt is still possible to make orders and access to tips for a better tasting of the cherry liquor or as we say in the Silver Coast and Portugal, Ginja.

Creative Communities for the Silver Coast

The application "Creative Clusters in Urban Areas of Low Density", recently approved by the European Union, will be led by the Municipality of Obidos (Silver Coast - Portugal). It was one of the 24 approved applications, among 120 projects across Europe.

This is a partnership with four European cities (Reggio Emilia - Italy, Mizil - Romania, Enguera - Spain and Catanzaro - Italy), and aims to enhance the economic, social and territorial dynamic’s of low density areas, with creative activities functioning as motors of the local communities.

It will be then extended in a second phase, another five to seven partners, three of which need not be cities. The draft budget will be 710 thousand euros for the two phases: the first stage (development), with a period of 6 months and the second phase (implementation), with duration of 30 months).

The project is based on the assumption that the creative activities can be the driving force of economic development as well as social and territorial cohesion of small towns, against the traditional trend of exodus of the population (particularly the young population) for big cities. The creative activities, in addition to generating employment, create value and promote integrated local economic development, have also to take up as central strategies in marketing or affirmation of the image and identity of cities and/ or regions, can make it become more attractive to the establishment of new businesses, residents and visitors.

In this context, the goal is, first, attract creative people (including families of young talent, creative adults undergoing change of career and retired assets…) and, secondly, attract small businesses in the areas of creative design, crafts, Art, antiques, music, advertising and architecture, which are the result of entrepreneurship assets of talents who want to live and work in these creative communities.

Silver Coast receives International Meeting of Archaeology

The auditorium of the City Council of Torres Vedras will receive from 1st to May 5th, an International Meeting of Archaeology under the theme "Vases (bell-beakers): Symbols of a European Community Cultural 5,000 years ago."

This initiative brings together specialists from different countries (Portugal, Spain, Morocco, France, Switzerland, Italy, England, Austria, Poland, Hungary, Czech Republic, Netherlands and Slovakia) that share knowledge and experience in this subject.

According to a press release off the municipality, this meeting aims to "create a basis for discussion, understanding and explanation of the subject - widespread throughout Europe in the 2nd half of the 3rd Millennium a. C. -- Addressing it in different regional contexts."

The discovery of those vases in various parts of Europe indicate the existence of regular trading on the old continent five thousand years ago and, in consequence, of a community that has emerged from that European cultural exchange, which was accompanied by other events such as domestication of the horse or the use of the wheel. It is the appearance of such cultural community that is ultimately the "Bell-beaker phenomenon."

Under this meeting are planned visits to sites related to the themes of the same, as the Castro of Zambujal, the Penedo of Lexim (Mafra), Leceia (Oeiras), the Museum of Cascais, Perdigoes (Reguengos de Monsaraz) and Alcalar (Portimão ).

In parallel with this meeting will feature, from April 30th to August 31st, the Leonel Trinidad Municipal Museum, in Torres Vedras, an exhibition with the same theme of the meeting.

This exhibition aims to be a starting point for a debate on the "Bell-beaker phenomenon ", presenting the results of the latest archaeological research in this field, held in various parts of Europe.

Reservations for guided visits to this exhibition, which has an itinerant nature, shall be made by phone number 261310484.

Opera and History at the Silver Coast

The Monastery of Santa Maria in Alcobaca (Silver Coast of Portugal) is already operating on the summer schedule.

From April the 1st until September the 30th, it is now possible to visit, the monument elected in 2007 as one of the Seven Wonders of Portugal, between the time between 9 a.m. and 7 p.m., the ticket office closes 30 minutes before.

The summer schedule allows visitors to see more rooms and Cistercian cloisters for another two hours, since between October and March the doors close at 5 p.m.

Similar to what happened last year, the lyrical singer Luis Pecas will be present on a daily basis, during the summer months, for special shows in the unique monument.

At 11 a.m. and 3 p.m., the Chapter Room is the privileged stage to hear some of the most beautiful arias of opera and music by the voice of the local religious tenor, one of the best of the Silver Coast of Portugal.

Observation circuit, more than 100 species of birds

At the “Tapada” (Nature Reserve) of Mafra – Silver Coast, it will be possible to see more than one hundred species of birds, starting from May. "We will open a new circuit which is the bird observation circuit", revealed Ricardo Paiva, director of the “Tapada”. "It’s the great challenge of the year, we made the lifting of that journey and we know that is, more often, seen species" of birds, explained.

At the “Tapada” (Nature Reserve) of Mafra – Silver Coast, every year is looking to submit a new product, and this year, it will be possible to observe chapins, felozas, pintassilgos, piscos pectoris red, as well as couples of birds of prey. This is the case of the Bonelli Eagle, which can reach underground and medium-scale, and whose offspring’s are the first flight in May and can be observed accompanied by parents throughout the area of the “Tapada”, Royal Bufo, a kind of owl of large dimensions, and the Azor (similar to the hawk), specialist in hunting birds in full flight, all nesting in the “Tapada”.

Apart from this route of bird observation, which will be in operation from May, the “Tapada” (Nature Reserve) of Mafra – Silver Coast already provides "walking, train and horseback, with horses themselves, and even a treasure hunt."

Climate change is a concern at the “Tapada” (Nature Reserve) of Mafra – Silver Coast, vulnerable to forest fires in summers of extreme drought. Another concern is that climate change can destroy the biodiversity due to not giving it time to make the kind of natural selection to adapt to the new climate.

"I fear very much that today's species do not have time to adapt, (climate change which were felt in centuries now occur in decades), we run a serious risk of diminishing our biodiversity, that is another area/ goal that the “Tapada” wants to seize next, he said. "We are neglecting the biodiversity issues that will be fundamental to our future," warned.

Silver Coast translates for Quality...

The National Council of Ministers approved the partial suspension of the Municipal Director Plan of Obidos, for a period of two years.

A measure, that provides ease pressure on urban ecologically sensitive areas, particularly near the coastline and the Lagoon. A government resolution published in the Daily Republic; identifies preventive measures, "aimed at the development of projects of high quality and sustainable development of the area, which involves the reduction in the rate of construction planned in the Municipal Directorate Plan in force."

Preventive measures are the ban on the holding of any urban operations, except those for the creation of holiday villages and Hotels that respect the constraints imposed, in particular with certain index of construction and environmental surroundings.

Quality development is the future for Obidos and Silver Coast in general.

Silver Coast, New Shopping Centre inspired by local culture

The future shopping center that Sonae Sierra intends to build between the hypermarket Modelo and the Health Centre of Caldas da Rainha is inspired by the legacy of Rafael Bordalo Pinheiro, a famous figure of the town.

The request for prior information given by the company in the local City Council has presented the study pictures of a North-American company based in Texas - the fd2s - with clear references to Ze Povinho and other creations by Rafael Bordalo Pinheiro.

The Rainha Shopping provides throughout its surrounding images of the universe of the ceramist, according to a protocol that Sonae Sierra signed with the Faiancas Rafael Bordalo Pinheiro. "We want the local habitants to review the local heritage in our building, and recognize what is their tradition and their culture," explained in prior note.

According to the initial designs submitted by the Texan company, Ze Povinho, tiles and ceramics from Faiancas will decorate the future shopping centre.

The fd2s has worked with Sonae in preparing the project for a shopping in Campinas, Brazil. The park D. Pedro is "the first shopping centre of thematic and specialized "of the country, according to its presentation on the Internet "The pioneer model of the Park D. Pedro is allied to the welfare and entertainment of the local community and special concern with the environment, "added.

As to the draft architecture, it is now the responsibility of Quintela Jose da Fonseca, after the Department of Planning and Urbanism (DPU) of City Council, raising some doubts about the integration planning and excessive volume the first draft presented.

The new project is more appealing to the Mayor, according to Gazeta,. But still there is no official position on the prior information.

Sonae Sierra refers, in the document presented, that they want to "develop a building 'icon', a landmark for the city, with a design of rounded forms, vertical development in terraces, with the clear objective of reducing the visual volume." Flower pots were made with natural landscaping, "thus removing the impact that the three floors could create regarding the street and passers-by."

The air link between the new building and Modelo Hypermarket, considered crucial in terms of trade and use, "is also an event in terms of Urban Design and Design." According to the images available, the impact of such air link in the new proposal is smaller than the previous one, because it is done in an area below.

The planned investment in the project is estimated of 50 million. The prior information submitted will now be examined by the DPU and the city council executive.

Obidos, Researchers prepare solutions for sustainability

The council of Obidos gave the following task to the StaR course, which occurred in Obidos from 7 to April 11: to develop practical solutions in order to transform the beautiful medieval town in an Eco-Town for a sustainable future.

The program STaR City brought together young researchers with multidisciplinary skills and aims to find solutions to current environmental issues and thus contribute to sustainable urban development in Europe.

Obidos has a great opportunity to become the first Portuguese village to reach the point of zero-emissions through the optimization of existing infrastructure, introduction of renewable energy, sustainable solutions to transport and waste management.

This course has a special focus on intelligent infrastructure systems, sustainable transport, sustainable tourism, evaluation of impacts, challenges to local authorities and others to be addressed by young researchers. The Municipality of Obidos and STaR encourages groups to submit ideas and new solutions for the future development of this town, to be replicated in other communities in Europe. Municipal authorities emerged with a vision that points to the creation of a new standard for urban spaces in Portugal and the results that flow from this event can be replicated in many other Portuguese communities.

The challenges and impacts of tourism are recognized in all municipalities and have been taking this into account which reached a basis for cooperation. The concept of Eco-Town, once implemented, should, first, protect the local environment of the negative impacts of tourism and, second, become a reference and have a role in attraction as a catalyst for the planning and improving quality of life. Funded by the Marie Curie programme, the STaR City is a unique project composed of a series of events covering the four key sectors in sustainable urban development: energy, transportation, waste management and urban planning.

The participants, students in doctoral and post-doctoral, with different skills from different disciplines and countries, provided the basis for innovative solutions and discussed real problems within the theme of sustainable solutions. They were also present, in large, internationally renowned experts, together with representatives from universities-edge, businesses, municipal and national authorities as well as the European Union.

Silver Coast and Obidos, always looking for improvement!

Silver Coast, safer and more accessible

S. Martinho do Porto will have a pedestrian bridge over the railroad.

In the near future, residents and tourists from the village of Sao Martinho do Porto can rely on a pedestrian crossing that will connect the train station to the beach sidewalk.

The installation of this equipment is the result of an agreement between the City Hall of Alcobaca, REFER and a civil construction company responsible for a resort that is already being built in the village and that is exclusively meant as second homes for English families. The contractor is responsible for building such equipment, which could be used by all, on the other hand the City Hall of Alcobaca has promised the construction company land for sidewalks and public equipment.

The new pedestrian bridge will be equipped with two lifts to facilitate access to those with reduced mobility and is justified mainly by increased security of all who have to cross the rails for access to the beach. The details of the agreement and the investment that this implies, should be signed at a meeting with a date yet to be defined.

Silver Coast of Portugal, constantly on the move! Improving every second... every day.

National Pear Fair to be held in the Silver Coast

The Association of Farmers of the West Region of Portugal will organize the XV National Fair of “Rocha” Pear (special kind of pear only found in Portugal, in the West region).

Displays of all kinds of Sweets, Crafts and Regional cookery, between the days 6 and 10 of August, at the Municipal Forrest of Bombarral.

The event, countryside originated, occurring in the full season of summer, serves as a great contribution to the promotion of key sectors of the local economy and culture of Bombarral and the Silver Coast/ Western Region of Portugal.

This event will be composed by 100 stands of exposure, taverns and rural space for cultural and musical entertainment. The first day begins with an "Inauguration Picnic", which consists of a rural menu, with regional wine and accompanied by delicious sweets, liquor and canned fruit, in particular, “Rocha” pears.

This year some innovations are planned within the dissemination of traditional agro-food products, like a giant cake of “Rocha” pear.

The Silver Coast of Portugal, waiting for your visit and pleasure!

Wines and golf, Silver Coast goes to Holland

The wine of the Quinta da Cortezia "Vinha Conchas", one of the partners of Golfoeste in the promotion of the golf resorts and wines of the Silver Coast/ West region of Portugal, was very successful in the Golf Fair of Amsterdam that elapsed in Holland between the 14th and 16th of March.

In addition of the wines, the public got to know better about the six golf fields of the Silver Coast/ West region of Portugal (Praia d’El Rey, Campo Real, Golden Eagle, Vimeiro, Botado e Bom Sucesso) and the new resort, the Ballesteros Royal Obidos Golf and SPA.

An article in the foreign press referred that "the golf in Portugal isn’t the Algarve alone anymore, and that the Blue Coast has now a fantastic new zone as well as the Silver Coast/ West region of Portugal and its Golfoeste trademark".

The Silver Coast of Portugal, the best new resorts for quality golf…

Silver Coast to receive Golf mega-tournament

A mega-tournament of golf in the Silver Coast will be one of the events that will be part of a plan of international promotion of the west region with financing of the State, to the resemblance of what was already done in the Algarve.

The guarantee was given by Frederico Costa, administrator of Tourism of Portugal, in a first meeting had with the president of the RTO (West Tourism Region) about this plan. However, it is also predicted the achievement of an international golf meeting to take place in the region in June, with the presence of 20 foreign speakers.

The main goal of this initiative will be to encourage the tourists dislocated to the Silver Coast for certain events to stay longer in the region. "Anybody going to the Opera festival in Obidos can take advantage of the day or two in the region, and go eat a sweated lobster at Peniche and buy some cavacas in Caldas da Rainha, for example", explained Antonio Carneiro.

Luis Garcia (RTO vice-presidente) highlighted the way the Silver Coast region has becoming more and more successful; referring that magazine "Golf Weekly" did an article in its central pages about golf in Portugal, where the Silver Coast/ West region fields were referred.

In the last week of March, GolfeOeste has been participating in a marketing operation for tourism agencies in Germany.

West Portugal in the Healthy Beach Program

The Healthy Beach Program is the result of a protocol of cooperation established between the Vodafone Foundation in Portugal, the Navy, the Water Institute, the Institute of Nature Conservation and Biodiversity, the National Institute for Rehabilitation and the Blue Flag Association of Europe, and is going to cover beaches of the Silver Coast of Portugal (Nazare, Caldas da Rainha, Peniche, Lourinha and Torres Vedras).

This program has the main goal to contribute for the increase of the security and quality of the environment in the beaches, as well as accessibilities for people with mobility difficulties.

Concerning Security there was disposed important equipment, such as jet skis for water rescue, buoyant stretchers or watchtowers, amongst other equipment. It was also created a simplified communications net accessible to the public, supplied telephones to the life-guards and created a phone number for each beach included in the program.

The implementation of a VPN (Virtual Private Network) came to facilitate the communication between the positions of beach, Captainships of Port, Instituto de Socorros a Naufragos (Help to Castaways and emergency rescue at sea), Local and Municipal Firemen, numbers of national emergency and others, identified as prominent in the support to emergency situations.

On the other hand, the SOS Praias (Beaches), a system of alert and support to the rescue designed especially for beach zones that are not guarded that entered in operation in 2007, will continue to be applied to new beaches.

The Silver Coast, taking the right steps towards a safer summer at the beach!

Silver Coast Received Speed Boat Festival

Foz do Arelho was the location chosen by the Portuguese Federation of Speed Boats for the beginning of the activities of the present competitive season, with the realization of a festival on the last 16th of March. This initiative united the pilots, to finalize the preparations for the upcoming season.

One should remember that the current national champion of the class S850 is a local pilot, a native of Caldas da Rainha - Luis Miguel Ribeiro. The event started at 10 o’clock, just as scheduled, the program of the "Foz do Arelho / Caldas da Rainha Festival", which also included a successful exhibition of radiocontroled boats.

On the 6th and 7th of September, the National Championship of Speed Boats, is going to carry out itself a journey of competition regarding the classes S 850, T 850, T 750 and PR 750.

Silver Coast, always interesting!

Stacey Kent, Jazz in the Silver Coast

She is one of the most charismatic personalities of contemporary Jazz and was on stage of the Movie-Theatre of Alcobaca last Saturday, the 15th of March, to showcase her most recent work – "Breakfast on the Morning Tram".

The show started around half past nine. Stacy Kent was accompanied by her husband, the saxophonist Jim Tomlinson, as well as pianist Graham Harvey, the double-bass player David Chamberlain and the drummer Mathew Skelton. The passage through Alcobaca is integrated in a total of three shows that the Jazzz Diva scheduled for Portugal, in a mini-tour that contemplates stops at the House of Music in Porto and at the Cultural Center of Belem in Lisbon.

Silver Coast, home of jazz fans, obviously appreciators of the good life…of the best region in Portugal!

MercoAlcobaca: the Farmer’s Fair in Alcobaca

Alcobaca receives up till next Sunday – March the 9th, the 3rd edition of the Agricultural Fair.

In the MercoAlcobaca pavilion, expositions, gastronomy and seminaries compose the program of an event thought for present new products and service of the sector, to promote the interaction between the economical agents and motivate the possibilities of business, with organization in charge of the Farmers Association of the Alcobaca Region in collaboration with the local town council.

With the activities mainly concentrated in one unique space, extended with gigantic tents, the Agricultural Fair assumes this year a dimension that surpasses widely the previous editions. Forest, Fruit, Wine, Cattle among other subjects are the emphasized sectors at a fair that counts with around 160 exhibitors and three days of technical activities.

But not only of regional representatives is this fair composed. Producers of Spain, Belgium and France give this year an international flair to the contest. With the growth of this year’s edition of the Agricultural Fair, the Wine Fair is not going to be carried out simultaneously, as usual, having been postponed for a date still to be defined, but that will surely be after the Summer.

In the Silver Coast there is always something going on!

Silver Coast gains accessibility… and even more value

Starting March, the Government is going to open the concession contest for the connection of highways A8 and A1 in the Leiria area. It will be called "Concession of the Western Coast". Announced by the Prime-Minister, Jose Socrates, during the Parliament debate carried out last Friday, the 28th of February, 2008.

Obviously good news for the Silver Coast, as the accessibility is increased considerably, since A1 is the most important highway in Portugal. Needless to say, this event adds to what is already a very significant market value, and for a good reason, as you can’t sincerely find a flaw to this beautiful stretch of the Portuguese territory.

Obidos may be the first Portuguese Eco-Town

The Municipal Museum of Obidos staged day 27, the conference "Town Sustainability", occasion used also to present the program “OB2" (Sustainable Obidos).

The main purpose of this conference was to develop efforts in the sense of stimulating the sustainability of Portuguese Towns.

The OB2 is born of the conjugation of efforts between the municipal company "Obidos Requalifica (Requalification)" and Ecochoice, a company of consultancy in sustainable construction that integrates the sector of the Tourism and Services of the Lena Group.

The project’s main goals are the implementation of planning practices and more sustainable construction, the fulfilment of the Program "Obidos Social Carbon", and to bring innovation to the land property sector and local construction as well as to provide service level of the practical eco constructive type. The aim is to turn Obidos into the first Portuguese Eco-town.

According to Isabel Santos, executive administrator of Ecochoice, "Obidos has conditions to position itself as an innovative center for the sustainable construction business and for the implementation of renewable energies which will turn itself unique in Portugal and the OB2 project personifies that will of change and differentiation of the town".

During the conference, prominent architect Selwin Wever spoke about energy efficiency of buildings and the presence of diverse specialists in this area was very significant.

These subjects are more and more popular by the day and definitely influence many opinions and choices of the property and construction perspective. The Silver Coast is all about these kind of values. We all certainly want to leave our children a better place…

Rio Maior, 26 “Tasquinhas” for the period of ten days…

The 23rd edition of the “Tasquinhas” Fair of Rio Maior, is scheduled to start February, the 29th, and ends on March, the 9th. This gastronomical feast is going to “shelter” the participation of 26 traditional restaurants and a program stuffed with animation.

Already considered an “institution”, even on a national level, the “Tasquinhas” reconciles the gastronomic traditions of the region, authentic relics secured in the memories of the more elderly, with the familiarity between people of the region and the endless visitors that, by these days, all head to Rio Maior.

As a result out of the dedication, creativity and pride that all of the people of Rio Maior have conferred to it, the “Tasquinhas” Fair achieved since the year 2006, the importante "Interest for the Tourism Statement", emitted by the Tourism General Direction Board.

The “Tasquinhas” Fair of Rio Maior is manly promoted by the Town Council of Rio Maior, but all takings revert for each participating community association.

The “Tasquinhas” Fair of Rio Maior will open to the public every day, from 7 PM to midnight and on weekends from noon to midnight.

The Silver Coast always has a “flavour” for everyone, in this case several, traditional and tasty flavours!

Airport discussion in Portugal: Comparison between Ota and Alcochete

Public consult can be done in several Town Council City Halls or by Internet

NAER – New Airport, INC. gave beginning on the 1st of February and by a term of 30 working days, a period of public consultation in the predicted assessment of Strategic Environmental Evaluation (AAE), on the basis of the "Study for the Compared Technical Analysis of the Alternatives of Location of the New Airport of Lisbon, in the Ota area and the Shooting Field of Alcochete area.”

The procedure of public consultation is one of the phases of the Strategic Environmental Evaluation (SEE or AAE) process, predicted in the LAW nº 232/2007, of 15th of June.

In this period, of public consultation that is in course, there can be sent to the NAER, observations and suggestions on the part of public entities, associations, organizations, non governmental groups and people of the public in general.

NAER, while promoter entity of the SEE (or AAE), has made available on the Internet, at www.naer.pt, all the documentation about the process, that can also be consulted at its own installations in Lisbon.

That same documentation is also available at several Town Council City Halls, such as Alcochete, Alenquer, Arruda dos Vinhos, Azambuja, Benavente, Cadaval, Cartaxo, Coruche, Loures, Mafra, Moita, Montemor-o-Novo, Montijo, Palmela, Rio Maior, Salvaterra de Magos, Santarem, Setubal, Sobral do Monte Agraco, Torres Vedras, Vendas Novas and Vila Franca de Xira.

The SEE will incorporate the environmental values in the decision process. The documentation for consulting includes the RCM of January the 10th, the Environmental Report, and the Non Technical Resume, elaborated by the National Laboratory of Civil Engineering (LNEC).

Even though it’s seems like a “done deal” for Alcochete, Ota has it’s hopes and the definite outcome of this will result in the future major airport in Portugal, which has every investor in suspense…

Sparkling wine "Confraria" presented in Obidos

The Cooperative Wine Cellar of Cadaval presented last 24th of January, at the Pelourinho Gallery, in Obidos, the sparkling "Confraria".

This is the first sparkling with Controlled Denomination of Origin (DOC Obidos) produced in the region and also the first one produced by this cooperative.

According to Alvaro Luis, President of the Wine Cellar Cooperative of Cadaval, "to produce a sparkling was an ambition that we had and the technicians of the Regional Wine Commission (CVR) said that it had excellent quality".

Already approved and in preparation period is the production of next year, which will give around 15 thousand bottles.

Of the 10 thousand bottles produced this year "alone at the store were sold six thousand already", advanced Alvaro Luis, that considers that the new sparkling "represents a tremendous business opportunity".

The presented sparkling, “Confraria", was produced from the chaste Arento Branco of the year 2006, from the slopes of the Montejunto Mountains and in range of the Demarcated Region of Obidos.

The Silver Coast and Obidos keeps proving us every day why it is, indeed, so special. Beach, wine, sun…. Can it get any better than this? Land property investors of the world, take a good hard look at this soon to be discovered paradise…

A new airport is announced by Portugal’s Prime Minister

Jose Socrates, the Portuguese Prime Minister has made it official, and even though there has been some indecision and public discussion around where should it be built, there is no doubt that a new airport is on the way. The total cost of the new airport is estimated around 4.9 billion Euros, and the definitive location will be the Alcochete area (just under 12 miles from Lisbon), just south of the Tagus River.

This is excellent news for anyone who has his eyes set on investing near this area, especially the Silver Coast, or even the Blue Coast. The boost that this news will give to the value of properties in striking distance is huge. The gain in accessibility is bound to reward all the foreign property investors that seize this opportunity for new investments/ additions to their property portfolio.

Taking in order that the Algarve is now so priced out and with all the building restrictions down there, one can only expect that many investors should get hold of the best properties in the Silver Coast and even the Blue Coast of Portugal while they can.

Anyone receptive to a good opportunity in this business should contact Move Portugal, as it is pretty much the complete package. Any information just ask us.

Nazare at Lisbon’s Tourism Stock Market

Nazaré will have its own proper stand at Lisbon’s Tourism Stock Market

The City Hall of the Nazaré will be, once again, present in the Tourism Stock Market of Lisbon, from the 16th till the 20th of January in the FIL, in Lisbon, with a proper stand and distribution of promotional merchandising.

As in previous years, the City Hall of the Nazaré will focus on promoting Nazaré as a "year round" destination, ideal for a one weekend or off season vacation.

To reach this purpose, it will strengthen the publicity of events as New Year’s Eve, the Carnival, or activities related with the nature tourism, associated to the rich culture and superb gastronomy of Nazaré.

Decorated with elements reminiscent of the local folklore, ethnography and sea culture, Nazaré’s stand will be located in Pavilion 1 - "Destination Portugal", dedicated to the representation of some national regions.

The Lisbon’s Tourism Stock Market will be for professionals only, on the 16th and 17th, opening doors to the general public on the18th through the 20th of January.

Still related to the LTSM, the National Association of Tourism Regions (ANRET), presided by Nazareth’s Miguel Sousinha will present on the 16th, a study on the evolution and development of Internal Tourism Flows in the past decade.

The importance of tourism for the Portuguese economy and the evolution trends are the basis of this study on the sector, its segmentation by type of accommodations, motivation of trip; most visited regions in Portugal, seasonality, among other subjects, will be under analysis.

Enjoy the SILVER COAST ( OESTE ), Portugal

OESTE The most diversified tourism region of Portugal

Located between the two main cities of Portugal (Lisbon and Oporto), the SILVER COAST (OESTE, Costa de Prata) is indeed, a special place, starting off from Castelo de Paiva, all the way down south to Arruda dos Vinhos, you will be amazed by all the wonders this unique stretch of coastline can pack.

Very well served of motorways and other quality accessibilities, you just can’t miss it. From picturesque fishing towns (Nazaré, Peniche, Ericeira), to the beautiful lagoon of Óbidos that links to stunning the beach of Foz do Arelho, you’ll find it impossible to get bored, as culture meets nature and history embraces modern ways.

The SILVER COAST (Costa de Prata) has a flavour for everyone, as you can visit the worldwide famous shrine of Fátima in the morning, buy local fruit and veggies at the traditional open market of Caldas da Rainha mid day, only to finnish a perfect day with a candlelight dinner at the castle town of Óbidos.

Experience the portuguese food, arquitecture and landscapes

Anyone that has ever been to Portugal, will most certainly rave about the food, specially about all the delicious fish dishes. Sample some Caldeirada at the harbour town of Peniche and understand immediately, not to mention all the other world-class wines you haven’t tried yet, or you thought Porto was the only top wine in Portugal? And while visiting Peniche, don’t forget to try out one the many action sports, as this former island facing the deep blue is pretty much the portuguese capital of nautical sports (surfing; bodyboarding; windsurfing; kitesurfing), and with nearby islands of Berlenga and Farilhões (accessible by regular boat trips), you can always choose to contemplate a spectacular view to a always stunning coastline. For those less fond of the adrenaline rushes, a great game of golf, at one of Europe’s finest golf courses (Praia d’el Rey) will keep you relaxed and unperturbed, as you’ll be in walking distance from the pristine beaches facing the vast Atlantic Ocean.
But don’t be satisfied with how nature blessed this striking piece of Portugal, as Batalha and Alcobaça are home of two of Portugal’s seven wonders, as the ancient monasteries are very worth the visit and only a few kilometres apart.

Portugal - Buying Guide Tax & Finance

It is important for those of you who will be purchasing a property in Portugal in the near furture to understand the buying process and the buying costs of the unique Portuguese system.

I would like to introduce myself as the resident FA (financial adviser). I have been living in Portugal fo the last 6 years and have been running a independant financial consultancy business in Portugal for the last 3 years supporting non-resident individuals and companies in rasing finance, providing fiscal representation and developing tax efficency structures.

The great team at MovePortugal have kindly let me put a simple but informative buying guide together for their prospective clients and allowing me to respond to your questions relating to tax & finance in Portugal.

STEP BY STEP

1. Use a Portuguese licensed real estate like MovePortugal.com
   
2. Obtain a fiscal number using a professional fiscal representation company.
   
3. Find a regulated qualified lawyer


4. Make a reservation offer to take the property off the market. This is normally non-refundable and made on the basis that a 'Promissory Contract' will be drawn up in the next 30 days.


5. The lawyer will then collect all the house documents to check everything is in order and if you are applying for a Portuguese mortgage it is advisable that you get an offer from the bank before the Promissory Contract is made.
   
6. Promissory Contract: this is drawn up by your lawyer and signed by the seller and the buyer. The conditions are negotiable, if you are taking finance I reccommend that the contract is made for 90 days until the deed of purchase.


7. Provisional Registration: this is only made when a mortgage is being used for financing the purchase. This means that the bank will make their first legal charge on the property at the local notary.


8. Property Transfer Tax (IMT): this tax is paid normally by the lawyer on your behalf a few days before the final deed.


9. Final Deed: this is made at the local notary and the seller and buyer (or the lawyer with a power of attorney) are present along with a bank representative (only when there is a mortgage).
   

PROPERTY TAXES

Property Transfer Tax (IMT)

>85,500 1%............0

85,500 – 117,200 2%............855

117,200 – 159,800 5%............4,371

159,800 – 266,400 7%............7,567

266,400 – 511,000 8%............10,231

511,000 + 6%............0

Example: Property price is €200,000 therfore....

200,000 x
7% = 14,000

14,000 - 7,567 = €6433

Stamp Duty
Property stamp duty = 0.8% x purchase price

Mortgage stamp duty = 0.6% x loan amount



LEGAL FEES
Provisional Registration (notary & registration of banks first legal charge, mortgage only)€650 (approx.)



Final Deed Registration (notary & registration of final deed) - €750 (approx.)



Lawyers Fees
1% - 1.5%


BANKING FEES (applicable for mortgages only)........


Valuation & arrangement fee
€500 (approx.)


Bank legal fee
€250 (approx.)

IN CONCLUSION

Property value from
€100,000 - €150,000
5% Buying costs (including
mortgage)



Property values from €150,000 - €200,000
5.5% - 6%
buying
costs (incl. mortgage)

Property Values from €200,000 -
€250,000
6.5%
- 7% buying costs (incl. mortgage)

Property values
from
€250,000 -
€350,000
7.5% - 8% buying costs (incl. mortgage
costs)

Property
values from €350,000 - €500,000
8% - 10% buying
costs
(incl. mortgage)

Coming soon a Glossary of important house documents that you should know the name of.

_________________

Steve Clarke

Mortgage Adviser (CeMAP)

Move Portugal - Launches the official Blog

Move Portugal - jumped into the web 2.0 bandwagon and Launch the MovePortugal official Blog.
Check back soon and see what are we up to.

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