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.

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."

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.

10th anniversary of chariots in Obidos

On last 15th of June, was celebrated ten years on the beginning of service of tour operators in Obidos, the Charretes do Oeste, the company Greenservices-Environmental Projects, Ltd.

The first chariot was a old wagon from the end of the XIX century that belonged to Azeredo Perdigao, that he used on his trips to Obidos, from his farm at Ferraria in Amoreira.

Today this collector’s car, of almost incalculable value, is stationary, leaving only on very special occasions.

The Charretes do Oeste offers two cars in permanent service throughout the summer time, which runs from June 15 to September 30, and the remainder work for week-ends and holidays.
To celebrate the anniversary, a Charriot was made available, designed for the transport of children, to perform "The anniversary stroll" which went from the Tourism Park to the Village Gates, descended to the hostel Josefa de Obidos, passed underneath the Water Aqueduct and returned to the Park, completely free, in homage to children because so many times, thank to their help selling a circuit to the parents.

This car didn’t stop since 10 a.m. until 5 p.m., strolling through the kids and mothers that wanted to monitor.

In the remaining Chariots was offered to all a 50% discount. And from time to time, accompanied by an accordion player in the Chariots, the famous "Mr. Martins."

There will be some more activities to celebrate this anniversary. The Obidos Patrimonium supported this and other proposed initiatives, such as music, opera, and lunch meeting with chariots in motion and guided tours to Obidos.

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 welcomes 8th Sardine Festival

The parking lot near the Municipal Library of Caldas da Rainha (Silver Coast - Portugal) will be the stage, on 18, 19, 20 and 21 of June, for the 8th Festival of the Sardine, an organization of the Cultural, Sport and Recreation Association of Santo Onofre.

The programme is as follows: Day 18 - Group Amigos da Farra; Day 19 - Light Orchestra Carvalhense / Group SonJovem; Day 20 - Group Fox 88; Day 21 - Musical Group Som / Marcha popular.

The spectacle of colour and joy of the People Parade (Marcha Popular) will take place on June the 21st, at 22 h, at the Square of UAL, in Caldas da Rainha.

A-dos-Francos will represent itself with two parades, Santo Antonio and Espirito Santo. Saint Onofre is to be represented by the parade group of Monte Olivetti. The invited parade group won the people’s parade of Lisbon last year and brings the colours of Alfama.

The parades and their representatives will be formally received, at about 18:30 in the Cultural and Congress Centre, followed by a socialization dinner between the various groups of the parade that night.

The Marchas Populares Parade is an organization of the City Council.

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.

Silver Coast – Portugal receives Festival “Flavours of the Sea”

The 9th edition of the “Flavours of the Sea” Festival, at Peniche, the self proclaimed wave capital of Portugal. Also "home” of the triathlon, Peniche will stage all this and much more from 6 to June 15, samples of food, crafts, entertainment, sports and other cultural manifestations.

Fifteen miles, the equivalent to 24 kilometres, is what will have to swim Nuno Vicente and Miguel Arrobas, defying the waves of the sea and the danger of Peniche on June 8, with the obligatory passage through Berlengas islands. The crossing is marked departure from Farilhoes, at 11 A.M., and arriving at the 5 P.M.

Peniche will also host other important events such as regattas, sailboat and kayak races, the Beach Football Championship, at Baleal, on day 6 (from 16 to 20h), and on the 8th (from 11 to 12 hours, and from 15 to 19h); the parade of pirates through the city, a competition of Triathlon School (day 11, to 15:30 at the Quebrado Beach ) and 25th edition of the Triathlon "City of Peniche" (day 14, from 15h), in homage to the place exactly where this mode was born in Portugal, for almost 25 years.

This communion between land and sea, the flavours and adventure, follows the initiative of the Municipal Council of Peniche together with entities such as the West Region of Tourism, the Association for the Development of Peniche and the Association of Commercial and Industrial Services of the Municipality of Peniche.

The music will also be a strong dish of IX Festival "Flavours of the Sea", with three concerts scheduled to Ribeira Velha: Jorge Palma day 7, at 23:30; Beto, August 13, the 23h and the Blasted Mechanism on 14, the 22:30, with the first part of the concert by local band Dapunksportif. Campo da Republica will also stage Portuguese popular music, with showcase by ethnic band Xaile, on day 6, at 22h.

Silver Coast - Portugal, Photo Exhibit recalls Nazare of the old days

The Cultural Center of Nazare hosts until the next day June 8th an exhibition of photographs that evoke the life of this fishing village in the 40's. In Tempo(com) sentido or "Time (With) Sense" the photos are 60 persons belonging to the collection of Jose Maria Carvalho Junior, known local doctor and amateur photographer, which focus on the human element and cultural identity of the town, offering a look beyond the context of the community fishing season.

Known locally as "doctor of the people," Carvalho Junior marked the civic and cultural activity of Nazare in the mid-twentieth century. His name is directly linked to the Library of Nazare, who founded and directed for several years, the newspaper Probus, "is born by his hand and by his brother, the Orfeao of Nazare, the Philarmonic Nazare Band and several groups of amateur theatre .

"Time (With) Sense" is an exhibition sponsored by the Library of Nazare and the League of Friends of Nazare, with the support of City Hall, and can be visited from Monday to Friday from 9:30 to 13:00 and from 14:00 to 19:00. On holidays and week-ends the Cultural Center of Nazare is open between 15:00 and 19:00.

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.

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.

Development Plan for the Silver Coast foresees investments of 2.8 billion euros

The Regional Plan of Territorial Planning of the Silver Coast (PROT-OVT), which will be presented in June, provides for the launch of a regional operator of broad band internet, strengthening the system of Medical Emergency Vehicles, a program of support for the installation of routes and pathways of places of touristy value, construction of facilities for the recovery of organic waste in the Silver Coast, the creation of the Regional Energy Agency in the West, programs related to renewable energies and studies on the Railroad of the West.

In a total investment of 2.8 billion, to be held by 2013, with some of the proposed investments to be supported by EU funds, through the NSRF.

The programme of implementation is now divided by areas: "the urban system and competitiveness" (1.08 billion), "environmental system" (547 million), and "system of mobility" (1.2 billion). In the system of governance-PROT OVT will be spent 2.2 million.

The five strategic priorities set out in the first versions of PROT have gone to four new names: "Winning the challenge of innovation, competitiveness and internationalization," "Strengthening territorial Vocations ensuring the framework of Environmental Sustainability", "Implementing the vision and enhancing the polycentric quality of urban life "and" Discovering the new countryside. "

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!

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.

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.

Silver Coast “samples” the IX Fair of Handicrafts and Flavours

Until April 30 the inscriptions are open to the participation of artisans in the IX^th Handicrafts and Flavours Fair, at Sobral de Monte Agraco – Silver Coast of Portugal.