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.

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.

Medieval Market of Obidos dedicated to Love and War

The 2008 edition of the Medieval Market of Obidos (Silver Coast – Portugal), 10 to July 20, will have more space and more animation.

The park's Village, opened on June 5 - World Environment Day, will stage a wide range of activities, including an International Meeting of Groups of Historical Recreation and "Medieval Hunts." The entrance of the Medieval Market will be the Port of Talhada, through the park.

"O Amor e a Guerra" (Love and War) is the theme of this Year’s Medieval Market of Obidos, which will have two distinct areas: a more rural one in the Town Park, with weapons and camps, and a more urban one, by the Castle wall, with new design.

The International Meeting of Groups of historical recreation joins seven groups of six European countries: Portugal, Spain, Poland, Belgium, the Czech Republic and Germany.

Also in the Village Park will take place medieval tournaments and hunting. A novelty in this year's edition of Obidos Medieval Market, where those interested, dressed accordingly, with arrows, bows and crossbows will have to shoot (and adjust) on targets in three dimensions, mimicking animals.

The wooded area is bounded by a rope for security reasons. This activity is subject to a paid membership. A kind of medieval "paintball" that promises to attract many visitors.

The Park will also stage the Village of exposure of individual animals, including horses, donkeys among others.

Another novelty in the 2008 edition is the parade of Medieval Costumes, on July 19, by 21:00, by the Castle wall.

The costumes are the same as those used in mainland Europe in the centuries XII, XIII and XIV, and represent either the economic and social classes of that period.

During the public presentation, a jury, composed of five experts in the field of history, will examine the costumes, with particular attention to the historical accuracy of the design, manufacture of quality craftsmanship and accessories.

The three best costumes will be distinguished, being ranked the best and rewarded with the offer of a voucher for purchases amounting to 500€ in the company's products "The Master of Arms" (www.omestredearmas.com).

Even the children were not forgotten in this event, with a space to play in the Auditorium of S. James, with traditional board games and face painting.

Like previous years, the entire animation will happen in different places, without appointment. The entry is five euros, except for householders, children under 12 years and people dressed the season.


Schedule

Week-ends - from 12.00 to 24.00

Day 10 - from 18.00 to 24.00

Other working days - from 17.00 to 24.00

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.

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.

Walking for Cultural Diversity at Obidos

The village of Obidos (Silver Coast-Portugal) was coupled with the celebrations of the European Year for Intercultural Dialogue with the completion of a journey on the morning of May, the 25th.

This initiative resulted from a challenge of the High Commissioner for Immigration and Intercultural Dialogue at all places Centers Support Integration of Immigrants (CLAII) existing in the country.

The organization of the trek was in charge of CLAII of Obidos. The initiative was also supported by the assembly 753 of the Boy scouts of Obidos and Joaquim Elias Timoteo Carlos (who provided the pieces of fruit distributed by the participants at the end of the trek).

The location and route were chosen based on the theme of walking. The town of Obidos, one of the 7 Wonders of Portugal, is an excellent example of the intersection of diverse cultural influences, not only in the past, with the various civilizations that passed through this place, but also in this, where many foreign nationals seeking this county to live or visit.

The definition of the route concerned accessibility for all who wished to participate, regardless of age or physical preparation.

The hike had around a hundred participants, aged between 2 and 77 years of age and several nationalities.

The meeting point was in the tourist office of the village of Obidos, where t-shirts were distributed to all participants. Some tourists wanted to join the walk. On arrival, each participant received a certificate.

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 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.

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.

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.

The fair will take place in the Parque Verde das Bandorreiras, on the 7^th and 8^th of June and will include music, art as well as street animation throughout the week-end.

Entries must be made in the Municipal Library of Sobral de Monte Agraco through the location Rua (street) do Municipio, 2590-038 Sobral de Monte Agraco, the phone number 261948265 or by fax 261948266.

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.

Golf at the Silver Coast

The detailed plan of the golf course, to be deployed on the land between Alfeizerao and S. Martinho do Porto as well as for a hotel near the picture perfect bay is already being prepared.

With a total of 16 holes, the green is planned for a land classified as agricultural reserve, but its construction is justified because it is "a project of great interest to the region" as guarantees the vice Mayor of Alcobaca, Carlos Bonifacio. Therefore the municipality wants to closely monitor the development detail plan, which responsibility of creation was delegated to the private group promoting the enterprise, through the private buildings council.

More tourists, generating more wealth and more jobs are the major advantages given to projects whose protocol between promoters and the local authority of Alcobaca should be signed soon. Political rivals PS and PSD together make for a majority in favour of an investment whose study of environmental impact, already completed and without any problems reported, still hasn’t convinced the CDU, which also criticizes the over-supply of such equipment.

Silver Coast is slowly becoming a force to reckon with in the golf tourism business.

Crazy Cars race the Silver Coast

The second edition of the Crazy Cars Race is back to Caldas da Rainha on May 25th, a Sunday, with the inscriptions under way until the contest day.

After having participated last year about 100 people, divided into 18 teams and some individual shares, the councillor Hugo Oliveira hopes that in 2008 the participation level will be even greater. "We want to have more crazy cars and to involve more people, encouraging their creativity and at the same time to make disclose more about our city," explained the councillor for Youth.

Apart from building an original and no motor car that travels the streets of Caldas da Rainha, participants must also participate in a proof of knowledge, responding to several questions about the city. This time there will also be some physical evidence.

As for cars, there are no limits to the imagination. They can be processed bicycles, cars, bearings, skates, roller blades or other means of transportation other than motor. According to Hugo Oliveira, there are groups that have started to build their cars, but there is still time for new subscriptions. The deadline for admission is up to 13:00, on the day of the race.

There will be two categories, individual and in groups and in both cases is distinguishing the means of transport that has the greatest creativity (60%) and best score in the test of knowledge (40%). The first prize will be a week-end in a European capital, but is not yet defined the destination. The second and third prize will be a week-end in a youth hostel.

Last year the winners were a group of students of the Training Centre for the metal industry (Cenfim) and Claudino Moreira.

The route will start in front of Town Hall, crossing the street Herois da Grande Guerra, among other streets, and ending at the statue of Queen Leonor.

In the first edition, the fact that the route required cutting traffic off of several streets was very complicated, even taking into account the fact that it wasSunday, which caused many complaints. So, this year, was chosen pedestrian areas for the race.

Since Hugo Oliveira is also responsible for the Trade matters at City Hall, he wants to use this event to encourage more people to come to the city on a Sunday afternoon and make their purchases. "What people have had this experience in Caldas on a Sunday afternoon?”

The City Hall has already contacted the trade association for this entity awareness among its members at the centre of Caldas to be open doors for the day. The municipality also defies traders to join the initiative.

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.

Berlenga Island, Silver Coast protects its jewels

The Natural Reserve of the Berlenga Island, off the coast of Peniche – Silver Coast of Portugal, has new marine inhabitants, revealed Julio Coelho, chairman of the Technology University of the Sea-ESTM, at the end of the ceremony of a protocol signing by the local municipality with Institute for the Conservation of Nature and Biodiversity - ICNB, Institute for Environment and Development - IDAD - University of Aveiro, and the Polytechnic Institute of Leiria - ESTM, aimed at drawing up the dossier of the candidacy of Berlenga Biosphere Reserve under UNESCO.

"There are species that have appeared here, in our seabed, which supposedly was not anticipated being there for these latitudes," said Julio Coelho. This is a specificity that "already identified and will be released, through a sub-aquatic photo investigation" which will be published shortly. "These are species of algae, which are set in stone, that it was not supposed to be there, and a species of fish that was not supposed to go there, as was identified," he explained.

These new species might be able to adapt to the climate change that the planet has suffered in recent years with increase in temperature, the teacher admitted. "It will have to do with marine currents, with temperatures of water, and micro-environmental conditions that meanwhile were installed, round the Berlengas, which provided the setting of species that were not supposed to exist here," he said.

Compiling programmes of environmental management

The preparation of the application file is now in charge of Professor Henrique Queiroga, of the University of Aveiro for whom it is necessary to ensure that there is "compatibility with the Human Nature" in the archipelago of Berlengas. "We will make the compilation of information that the UNESCO requires as essential, to decide on the programmes of environmental management that are under way and show that we will articulate the political, economic, social, tourist and conservationist, to preserve the environment "of the Natural Reserve of the Berlengas, explained.

According to the mayor of Peniche, Jose Antonio Correia, the municipality intends to promote sustainable development and preservation of important natural heritage, demonstrating in practice, "attitudes of social responsibility that morally assist this." The recognition which is to be expected from the UNESCO "will also disclose to the world the full potential and unique heritage that has Berlenga Island, and that is important to unveil and value," stressed.

Silver Coast samples Soups and Tradional Food

The Cooperative Wine Cellar of Labrugeira will receive, on days 12 and 13, the VI Festival of Soups and Traditional Cookery of Alenquer.

The purpose of this festival is to show popular food and old receipts related to the inhabitants of the field of the high part of the county of Alenquer and, in particular, its food for subsistence, the Cooperative Wine Cellar of Labrugeira intends to honor the growers of this region.

At a time when farmers are preferably dedicated to agricultural production at the expense of other alternatives of urban environments, they both were the owners of these resources but also assumed the letter of its productivity. Its purpose was more the immediate livelihood of the family, producing values of use and non-exchange values.

The soups were then made of how diligent, with potatoes, beans or grain and in some cases improved with meat, pork, mutton, lamb or chicken, and, as the remaining ingredients, everything from homemade production.

The "merenda", a light meal in the afternoon, a habit lost about half a century ago, functioned in place of supper. It was composed by leftovers of the earlier meal, based on snacks, and bacon, greaves, sausage and fresh cheese. This costume has fallen into disuse but is still in memory of the oldest.

Program

Day 12 (Saturday)
-- 12:30 - Parade of "Fanfarra" by The Volunteered Fire Fighters of Alenquer;
-- 13:00 - Event Inauguration;
-- 15:00 - Sevillian "Las Guapas";
-- 16:00 - HIP-HOP (Sporting Alenquer);
-- 18:00 - Folk "Rancho" (traditional dances) of Penafirme da Ventosa;
-- 21:00 - Group "The Vindimeiros";
-- 22:30 - Musical "Tuna", University of Coimbra.

Day 13 (Sunday)
-- 13:00 - Resumption of the Event;
-- 14:00 - Light Orchestra of Olhalvo;
-- 16:00 - Voices Maduras (Child);
-- 17:00 - Voices Maduras (Adult);
-- 18:00 - Sevillian "Home of Saozinha";
-- 19:00 - Bandinha the quarter;
-- 21:00 - Folk "Rancho" (traditional dances) of Vila Verde of Francs

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!

“Flavours of the Sea”, Festival in the Silver Coast

June will be the month of the Summer launching season in Peniche, with one more edition of the Festival Sabores do Mar (Flavors of the Sea) that will be carried out between the days 6 and 15.

To the resemblance of the two last editions, the “flavours” will go beyond the gastronomy. Pottery, Animation, Knowledge and Sport will also have highlight place in the 2008 edition.

The Swim Crossing between Farilhoes (Smaller Islands next to Berlenga, the Bigger Island off the coast of Peniche) - Peniche, the 11th crossing by kayak between Peniche – Berlengas; the city’s XXVth edition of the “Triatlo”, that will count with the presence of the best national athletes, such as world champ Vanessa Fernandes, Bruno Pais, Duarte Marques, and the musical shows with Jorge Palma (7th of June), Beto (13th of June) and Blasted Mechanism (14th of June), all of these are some of the initiatives already confirmed in the program.

Regarding the Knowledge theme, the Festival of this year will count on with, once again, the "I Am of from Peniche Convention ", an open forum to everybody that in some way feels connected to Peniche and that wish's to contribute with ideas or projects for the development of the area.

Preceding the 9th Festival “Flavors of the Sea”, is scheduled a gastronomic week of Peniche in the Restaurant Dom Tonho (by the Port), between the days 15 and 18 of May, that will mark the launching and official presentation of the festival.

Silver Coast, always looking for quality of life!

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!

Open inscriptions for Collector’s Fair

The inscriptions for the Collector’s Fair that the Municipal Museum of Cadaval is going to promote between the 24^th and 27^th of April are now open.

Everyone that possesses collections of any kind of articles is invited by the organization to participate in this event that is going to be not only an exposition of collectable articles, but also a trading and commercial opportunity.

The museum is seeking to enrich and diversify its expositional offering, contributing, at the same time, for the promotion and proximity between public and participants.

Despite of, already, having promoted, in previous years, two expositions of stamp collecting, this will constitute the first generic Collector’s Fair promoted by the museum of Cadaval, home of delicious wine, straight in the heart of the Silver Coast of Portugal.

The inscriptions are free and can be done directly at the Municipal Museum of Cadaval, or through the site, in that case by means of filling the online form, or yet by telephone number 262 691 690 or still by the email museu@cadaval.org.

Silver Coast, name your taste, you will probably find it here…

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!

Silver Coast is going to be Bullfighting Capital of the World

Bull Starts, training of “forcados” (the men that have to grab the bull by the horns), a historical parade, expositions, colloquies, and obviously, bullfights, are part of the First Bullfighting Journeys at Caldas da Rainha, in the Silver Coast, that will take place from the 15th to 25th of May, 2008.

The event is organized by the local businessman Paulo Pessoa de Carvalho that wants to put Caldas da Rainha back on the Bullfighting Map of the World, recuperating the tradition that the city once had.

"Bullfighting generates employment and naturally increases economy growth and above all, is part of the legacy of our country", says Paulo Pessoa de Carvalho, which is going to have the town council as essential partner in this project, which coincides with the City Festivities.

Silver Coast, indeed one of the most diverse and interesting cultures of the world!

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!

Top 15 Reasons to invest in Silver Coast Property

The information below, reasons to invest in Silver Coast property, is focused on the economic considerations, future investments and infrastructure in the Silver Coast region of Portugal.

1. A Pricewaterhouse Coopers and a Place in the Sun report put the Silver Coast Portugal within the top three countries most likely to make you the most money in the next 10 years.
   
2. A report by the Strategic National Tourism Plan states that the tourism receipts will increase to 12 thousand million (12 billion) by 2015 and the report also concludes the Silver Coast will be one of the main growth areas.
   
3. Portugal and especially the Silver Coast have strict planning regulations that will ensure the low density of new developments and keep the supply and demand levels balanced.


4. Portugal is rapidly becoming centre stage for eco-investments within the Euro zone. And the Silver Coast is no exception with signs of renewable energy dotting the countryside.
   Investments into solar panel farms, wind turbines, wave turbines and eco-villages are attracting blue chip corporations and high net worth investors into the area.
   
5. According to Barclays bank the number of Irish and British citizens who plan to buy abroad will double in the next 5 years.
   
6. Until 2013 the EU plan to fund €8.8 million per day to improve the Portuguese economy and infrastructure.
   
7. Portugal can be seen as a low risk, established and safe investment environment.
   
8. Portugal has a long established tourism market and you will find close to 100% occupancy in the summer months in the most popular tourist spots, including Nazare, Sao Martinho do Porto, Foz do Arelho and Obidos.
   
9. Portugal, the UK and Ireland all adhere to the EU double taxation treaties allowing non-residential Portuguese property owners to avoid double taxation including capital gains tax and rental income tax.
   
10. The Portuguese banks encourage non-residents to take out a Portuguese mortgage and the process is relatively easy to obtain an 80% LTV interest only mortgage.
    
11. Terminal 2 at Lisbon airport was opened for business this year 2008 to increase the volume of low cost airline traffic to the capital.
    
12. A new TGV high speed rail link Lisbon to Madrid is planned for 2010 with completion by 2015. The TGV will reduce the journey from Lisbon to Madrid to 3 hours from currently 10 hours.
    
13. Two new modern state of the art shopping centres are to be built in Caldas da Rainha. One to be finished in spring 2008 and the other in spring 2009. One of these projects will be built be the Sonae Group. www.sonae.pt. They will consist of shops, supermarkets, cinemas and restaurants.
    
14. A Jurassic Theme Park is to be built in the town Lourinha with the construction to start in 2010 with the intention to attract more than 250,000 visitors a year.
    


15. Finally and most importantly 4 new 18 hole championship golf courses are currently under construction in the council's of Obidos and Caldas da Rainha. They are Royal Obidos, Falaesia del Rei, Rainha Golf and Bom Successo. All of these golf courses will include luxury villas and apartments plus 5 start hotels thus making the Silver coast area of Portugal a dominant force in the world of golf tourism.
    

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Obidos, Is it the main attraction of the Silver Coast?

In an interview to the “Oeste online” website, the president of the town council of Obidos, Telmo Faria, shows us why Obidos has been the most dynamic ever, revealing the intention to develop a business project around chocolate, with the creation of a museum and a factory, although ideas to increase the tourism flow don’t stop here…

Oeste Online – What are the plans to take advantage of the success already achieved with the Chocolate Festival?

Telmo Faria – We want to do a business project around the chocolate theme. The town council has been working on a project that deepens the relation with chocolate, developing a product that will have the "Obidos" trademark.

We thought of doing two units, to be managed in a partnership between the two municipal companies. One more museum like, to stay inside the town and to be called "Factory of the Chocolate-Museum" - It’s a small chocolate factory, with a shop, exposition areas and ateliers for kids.

The second is to be installed in old wine warehouses, bought for 440 thousand euros by the Town council, just outside of Obidos, in nearby village of A-da-Gorda, that will be “rejuvenated” in order for a bigger factory to be done and will have dwellings for the chocolate makers to live. These projects are important job sources and who knows if new firms don’t appear and start to associate and invest. Our intention is to open doors.

Also in this extensive interview, the Mayor of Obidos talks about several other projects that he pretends to develop in Obidos, such as a new course in Advanced Bakery, unique in Portugal. Other huge projects include the “Semana Santa (Holy Week)”; The Opera Festival; the Flower Fest; a Cinema Festival; a Arte Biennial and a Silver Biennial.

The Silver Coast sometimes seems to have a capital, called Obidos, as there is no shortage of initiative here, where young Mayor Telmo Faria puts all efforts on keeping Obidos in everyone’s ears, eyes and mouth…

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!

Nazare received the “Love Fest”

In eves of S. Valentine’s Day, Nazare was invaded by love.

Between the 8th and 10th of February last, Nazare’s Cultural Centre was the main stage for the “Love Fest” (Festa do Amor), an event particularly destined to the more passionate couples, which approached the several sides of this human sentiment.

Homemade chocolates, pottery, teas and corporal oils are some of the available products that can also be good suggestions of gifts for upcoming Valentine’s Day.
For the boldest there where aphrodisiac cocktails and you could offer to your lover a full beauty service of or even a relaxing massage. Strolls in a limo, acupuncture treatments or personalized candles where other options to daze your better half. And as love and the magic walked side by side, it was still possible to “read the cards”, hear your fate or throw the shells, as well as get to know other esoteric products.

The "Love Fest" counted also with a cultural activities program. On Saturday, around 10 pm, a cross flute concert was held and an hour later a belly dance exhibition took place. On Sunday, the 10th, by 3 PM you could attend a violin concert. In addition was the thematic animation (a cupid with magical arrows) and an exposition of Andre Brito photography.

The "Love Fest" was an initiative promoted by Colectivo Relogio (local association), in collaboration with the Commercial, Industry and Service Association of Nazare, with the support of the Town Council, showing just how dynamic Nazare and the Silver Coast is, even outside the summer holidays.

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…

World Press Photo 2007 Photo taken in Nazare conquers award

A photo taken during the Sumol Nazare BB Special Edition (a big wave bodyboarding event), that took place in last December, at Praia do Norte (big wave spot), earned a distinction at the 2007 World Press Photo Awards (WPPh).

The awards where announced by the WPPh Foundation and the photo journalist Miguel Lopes Barreira was placed third in the "Sport Action" category with an amazing black and white image where bodyboarder Jaime Jesus is caught completely suspended in the air, about to fall in the massive whitewash.

The World Press Photo Awards are considered the most important awards in terms of international recognition of the work done by photo journalists worldwide.
The awards ceremony is to be held on the 27th of April, at Amsterdam.

Nazare and Silver Coast of Portugal are, once again, in the spotlight, as the potential for radical water sports that is found here starts to gain international attention. A natural consequence, which will obviously affect the property business in the most positive way, as every year, more, and more surfers and ocean lovers in general, make way for this beautiful stretch of coastline facing the mighty Atlantic, curious to see what all the fuss about…is.

Alcobaca wants to promote the local pottery industry

With the intent to promote, make known and rejuvenate the local pottery sector, the town council of Alcobaca presented a candidature to the Project CeRamiCa, in the scope of the Inter-Regional Cooperation Program, known as INTERREG IV C.

Alcobaca puts-itself beside others towns and non lucrative entities of countries as Spain, France, Romania, Slovenia and Greece, in a project led by the town of Hodmezovasarhely, in Hungary.

Overall, the project contemplates 2.140.600 €, of which 360,760 euros are destined to the national components. To the Portuguese entities fits a contribution of 85 %.

Experience exchanges of good practices, bench marketing actions, promotion of the pottery related industrial tourism and the accomplishment of a correct diagnosis of the sector, for which should participate all of the local industrialists are other proposals of the town council in the scope of this candidacy, that should receive an answer in the next month of June.

In conclusion, one should know that the pottery industry continues to have an important weight in the economy of the whole Silver Coast, as attested by the number of work positions related to all of the ceramics factories and tourism inflows that fine pottery generates. Ceramics is clearly an important asset to the Silver Coast, especially in areas as Alcobaca and Caldas da Rainha, where it attracts many tourists and art/ decor lovers.

Obidos Chocolate Festival scheduled to begin on Valentine’s Day

The Chocolate Festival is going to take place from the 14th to 24th of February in Obidos, embodying diverse activities, amongst these there will be three contests, “The House of Chocolate for kids”; “The Exposition of Chocolate Sculptures”, a model/ Fashion Show Runway and Courses of chocolate making.

For 12 year old’s and elder, the tickets cost five euros and the entrance at “The House of Chocolate for kids” will have the price of four euros.

Schedule

Monday through Thursday: from 3 to 11 PM
Friday: from 3 to Midnight
Saturdays: from 10 AM to Midnight
Sunday, the 17th: from 10 AM to 11 PM
Sunday, the 24th: from 10 AM to 8 PM
“The House of Chocolate for kids”: from 10 AM to 11 PM

News of the West Coast

Carnival in the Silver Coast heats up!

The theme for the Main Course of Nazare’s 2008 Carnival is already known and goes under the theme/subject: "Are you kidding". The song that won the contest promoted by the town council of Nazare has lyrics by Antonio Lopes and music by Francisco Taveira that also interprets; musical arrangements by Rui Amado.

As usually the Main Course obeys to the theme chosen for the year in force and is one of the symbols of the unique way of celebrating the Carnival by the local folks of Nazare.

Meanwhile, the first carnival festivities have already begun, with the first Masks Ball taking place at the Recreational Association of Planalto, in Sítio of Nazare. Last Sunday afternoon took place a Street Ball with public presentation of the Kings of the Nazare Carnival in the Sousa Oliveira Square.

In Torres Vedras the Carnival even has its own website (www.carnavaldetorres.com), with all the available information about the Carnival. Last Saturday took place the inaugural ceremony of the "Monument" in ode to the Carnival, at the Republic Square.

Following the spirit largely known, the Carnival of Torres Vedras proposes this year, in the launching of this year’s edition of the " The most Portuguese Carnival in Portugal", a statue that challenges all engineering, creation and audacity, in the scope of the main theme of the event – The Super Heroes – a Monument to the Comic Books. In the construction process, that contemplates 35 Comic Book characters, 80 artists were involved.

Carnival in The Silver Coast

As if the Silver Coast wasn´t interesting as it is, anyone visiting Portugal this time of year can't help but notice that this is the place to be!

Between Nazaré, Caldas da Rainha, Óbidos, Peniche and Torres Vedras, take your pick, as there is no shortage of festivities, and overall healthy fun. Mask contests everywhere and the espectacular Carnival Parades or Street Dances and Evening Balls.

Obviously, the Carnival is another important manifestation of the portuguese culture and yet again, another exemple of the economic and tourisitic potential of this part of Portugal.

Everyear, more and more people discover the Silver Coast (aka West Coast), and naturally, just can't find it in them to leave. Land property investments just can't go wrong here, because either it's for your own use or not, it's always a win-win situation here in sunny Portugal.

Silver Coast Jurassic Park

Firm from Caldas da Rainha wants to invest in Lourinhã

An Indian businessman, administrator of a real estate firm from Caldas da Rainha has proposed to establish a partnership with the town council of Lourinhã and to invest millions of euros in the construction of a Jurassic and Amusement Park, that will transform the town of Lourinhã in a huge centre of attention in the Silver Coast, (also known as West region) attracting more than 250 thousand visitors per year.

Two of the greatest world specialists in the development of theme parks, the British Simon Ody and Keith Gray, were in Lourinhã this past Friday, to study the intentions of the town council, in order to develop the construction project of an amusement park with mechanical dinosaurs and a hotel, in a total area of one hundred hectares, that will combine a Jurassic Park with an educational and research centre.

Although it was a visit of few hours, nevertheless it cost 40 thousand euros to the sponsoring firm that wants an innovative project. The investment is faced like a unique opportunity in the market, since there does not exist in Portugal anything even similar in the area of palaeontology neither in the area of a learning/enjoyment park for children with a dinosaur theme park background.

"The product that Lourinhã has/ represents is absolutely fantastic and is
lucrative. We intend to find a balance between the recreational and playful
component", affirmed Simon Ody.
For Simon Ody, one should venture on the
recreational side, so that "the first time visitors wish to return and
eventually stay for a weekend", in order to convert this investment into a
commercially valuable project."

In Keith Gray’s words, "the famous Spielberg movie (Jurassic Park) showed how popular this product can be and that it is possible to capitalize on it."
The theme park, with 87 acres, will include a museum with a garden where the existing flora of the dinosaur age (150 millions of years) will be recreated. All properties in the area are in prospect of huge valorisation, obviously presenting itself as another asset to a wise investment in the Silver Coast region.

"Dinosaur World" opens doors in 2011. Location projected next to the west entrance of Lourinhã.
Lourinhã is the center of one of the richest dinosaur’s fossils areas of the Jurássic age in the entire world in addition to being the area where palaeontologists discovered the so called Lourinhã Dinosaur, a carnivorous animal of 4.5 meters of length that lived there 150 millions of years ago. The history of this species to which the town lent his name, Lourinhanosaurus, is counted in the current Museum of Lourinhã.

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.