From The Silver Coast it is Easy to Visit the Whole of Portugal

The Silver Coast of Portugal is such a great place to visit for many reasons, one of which is the easy access.

I took a little trip to the airport yesterday morning, it was the first time I had ventured to Lisbon for ages and had completely forgotten how easy it was to get there. The A8 motorway has made a great difference to the Silver Coast, opening up the area and allowing more people to discover the wonderful beaches and historic towns and villages.

Buying an apartment or villa on the Silver Coast allows you enjoy the whole of Portugal with relatively short journey times not only to Lisbon but Porto in the north as well, allowing you to discover more of Portugal every time you visit.

Have a look at our beautiful apartments in Sao Martinho do Porto and imagine the fun you could have enjoying the Silver Coast and the whole of Portugal, as well as making a sound financial investment for the future.


By Stephanie Johnson

Lisbon vs. Madeira

It was the battle of Lisbon vs. Madeira this weekend in Portugal’s Premier Football league. For such a small island it is an incredible achievement that Madeira has consistently produced to teams that always finish in the top half of Liga Sagres. This weekend both Madeiran teams squared up against Lisbon giants Sporting and Benfica.

The first game of the weekend saw Nacional travel to Estadio Alvalade in to face my beloved Sporting Lisbon, usually I make the short hour trip from São Martinho do Porto to watch them play but unfortunately due to work commitments I was unable to make the trip, I did however get to watch from a local pub in Nazare, and what a game it was. Sporting winning comfortably 3-1 with goals from Miguel Veloso and a brace from Liedson.

Then on Sunday Benfica travelled to the island to take on Maritimo, again it was a comfortable victory for a Lisbon team with Benfica winning 5-0, goals from Saviola, Luisão, Pereira, Cardoza and an own goal from Roberto Sousa contributed to a miserable evening for Maritimo.

So the weekend ended heavily in favor of Lisbon. Lisbon 8 Madeira 1. Benfica remain in second, behind Braga only on goal difference and Sporting Lisbon moved up to 4th.

By Dylan Herholdt

What a Small World!

I first had thoughts about moving to Portugal when over here on holiday and had dreamed about it ever since. But although I couldn’t think of a nicer place to live I was a little concerned about leaving behind family, friends and all things familiar.

However, that was in the days before the use of the internet became commonplace. This millennium it seems that everyone has internet access making the world feel like a much smaller place.

I eventually realised my dream and came to live on Portugal’s Silver Coast in the summer of 2005 and by making the most of everything the internet has to offer I have never felt cut off from things back in the UK.

I listen to BBC Radio 4 every morning while having breakfast and continue to moan about John Humphrys just as I did before, and I never miss The Archers!

Keeping in touch with my friends and family by email is easy (and free!) and of course now it is very straight forward to use live chat and webcam and actually see the person you are talking to. Then there is Skype if you just want to give someone a call.

I can follow the test match without missing a ball and I can buy just about anything via online shops. Amazon is my current favourite, so now there is no problem buying English language books and DVD’s whenever I want to.

If you enjoy watching television then that is not a problem either. You can watch anything you care to via the internet or satellite, although Portuguese TV does show a lot of English language films with Portuguese subtitles, which is actually a great way to learn the language.

Moving with my family to the Silver Coast proved to be one of the best decisions I have ever made. We enjoy all the benefits of living in a beautiful part of the world with the beach on our doorstep and places like Sao Martinho do Porto and Salir do Porto just up the road, without having to miss a thing from the UK.

We often jump in the car and take a short drive up to Nazare for Sunday lunch in a restaurant on the seafront, or maybe go to Obidos for a look around the lovely little shops to do a spot of Christmas shopping.

Then there is Caldas da Rainha also very close by and Lisbon less than an hour away. We really couldn’t be better placed to get the best of all worlds.

They say you only live once – I say make sure you live the life you wish for.

By Stephanie Johnson

Why Are We Called Prestige?

We took a lot of care choosing a name for our business, we are not called Prestige by accident.

Allow me to explain:

P – Property on the Silver Coast, a product we truly believe in.
R – Reasonable prices. You still get great value for money on the Silver Coast when compared to other holiday destinations such as Spain.
E – Experience. We have many years experience during which time we have established ourselves as one of the leading agents on the Silver Coast.
S – Silver Coast. Where else?
T – Trust. Our knowledge of the area and the real estate business means we are able to offer a professional, reliable service.
I – Investment. Property on the Silver Coast of Portugal is recommended as a wise investment due to the stable government, unspoilt coastline and countryside and ease of access. The Silver Coast is only a short drive from Lisbon airport.
G – Good rental potential. Our apartments and villas in beautiful locations such as Nazare, Sao Martinho do Porto, Salir do Porto and Obidos provide consistent rental income for their owners.
E – Endless miles of sandy beaches. Which as an owner of a property on the Silver Coast are available for you to enjoy whenever you wish.

Prestige by name, prestige by nature.

By Stephanie Johnson

Traditional Music on the Silver Coast

Music and Portugal are synonymous going back through history to the beginning of civilisation.

The Portuguese 12 string guitar produces the most beautiful music, (in the right hands of course!) and lends a unique atmosphere to any proceedings. One of my most memorable trips to Lisbon involved sitting in the shade of a tree surrounded by glorious sunshine in the grounds of the famous Castelo de Sao Jorge listening to a musician who played beautifully. It was truly moving.

This lovely instrument is the usual accompaniment to Fado the traditional music of Portugal, greatly revered throughout the country. The word Fado actually means ‘fate’, but as all the songs are terribly sad it would seem that ‘lament’ might be a more accurate description.

You may think that as a non-Portuguese speaker it would be difficult to understand this music considering the lyrics are so important, but a night of Fado in a Portuguese bar is a unique experience that really shouldn’t be missed.

Such importance is placed on the singer or ‘fadista’, either a man or woman and always dressed in black, that when they take their place in front of the musicians a respectful hush falls over the room.

Fado music is played in bars all along the Silver Coast in towns such as Nazare, Sao Martinho do Porto and Salir do Porto, and in Obidos there is a wonderful cosy bar that is built into the castle walls and has Fado music every Friday night, an atmospheric evening not to be missed.

Visit Portugal, a land of culture.

By Stephanie Johnson

New easyJet Edinburgh-Lisbon route for 2010

UK airline easyJet announced yesterday the introduction of yet another new route to Lisbon. Now people from Scotland have the chance to fly direct from Edinburgh to Lisbon. Portugal was recently awarded the prize for ‘Best City Break’ at the travel awards and this latest route will give people the opportunity to enjoy Lisbon and places like Obidos, Fatima, Sintra and other Silver Coast destinations like Nazare or Sao Martinho do Porto which are both under an hour from the Portuguese capital.

easyJet’s regional general manager is very positive about the new route saying: “Lisbon is a vibrant and historic city, which we expect to be popular as a city break destination . . .”

Fares are very reasonable £28.99 one way and £53.98 return.

By Dylan Herholdt

Royalty on the Silver Coast

Zara Phillips’ has just purchased new property on the Silver Coast of Portugal. This should come as no surprise to anyone who has ever been here, it is definitely a land fit for royalty.

The daughter of the Princess Royal, who is 11th in line to the throne, has purchased an off plan villa at an inland golf resort north of Lisbon. Her reasoning is simple; the wonderful nature, weather and people of the Silver Coast make this a special place to visit.

If you wish to live the life of royalty consider our villas at Perola da Lagoa, not only offering golf but historic Obidos, the lagoon and fabulous beaches as well.

Perhaps better than Zara’s. . .

By Stephanie Johnson

London-Lisbon highspeed rail link brings the Silver Coast closer

It was announced this week that Spain and France are to form a company that will construct a high speed rail between Paris and Madrid, with construction due to begin in 2012 this brings the beautiful Silver Coast that much closer to the rest of Europe.

This means Londoners would be able to catch the Eurostar from London to Paris, and then take the high speed rail from Paris to Madrid.

The journey does not end there. It was announced in October that a high speed rail would be constructed between Lisbon and Madrid and that it would be finished by 2013. The rail link will have one of its main stops at Torres Vedras, which is exciting news as this town is just 10-20 minutes from some of the most beautiful seaside locations you will ever see; Nazare, Foz do Arelho, Obidos, Sao Martinho do Porto and Salir do Porto.

There has never been a better time to invest on the Silver Coast . . .

By Dylan Herholdt

Sporting vs Benfica . . . this is huge!

Two of the biggest names in Portuguese football meet this weekend in a game that divides families, towns, companies and bars for a weekend. FC Porto may have been the most successful Portuguese football team in recent years but the oldest and most well known clubs are Lisbon giants Benfica and Sporting.

The stadiums are only 200 meters away from each other and this weekend the two teams will meet in the most anticipated club game on the Portuguese calendar. Benfica are the team to beat at the moment, they have splashed out this season on some big name signings and currently sit in joint first place. Sporting has not had a good season, they lie in seventh and their coach Paulo Bento resigned last week. However Sporting have been encouraged by their recent 4-1 cup victory and some indifferent results for Benfica, including a shock cup exit at the hands of Victoria Guimaraes.

So the stage is set, our company, based here on the Silver Coast is divided and this game will be spoken about for weeks to come with fans of the winning team given bragging rights for the next 6 months in restaurants, pubs, schools, on building sites and in the office.

On Saturday the 28th of November at 21:15 the country will stand still as these two teams go head to head, the Silver Coast will be no different as fans from both teams will gather in pubs and restaurants in Nazare, Obidos, Caldas da Rainha, São Martinho do Porto and Foz do Arelho to cheer their favorite team on to victory.

I will be taking the short 45 minute drive to the Alvalade stadium in my green and white hooped shirt and scarf, hoping for a Sporting win.

Let the rivalry begin . . .

By Dylan Herholdt

Christmas Magic in Obidos Castle

‘Vila Natal’ the traditional Christmas celebrations that last for more than a month commence on November 28th. Obidos Castle on the Silver Coast has always been a magical place but from the 28th until the New Year something special happens inside the ancient castle walls.

The lights go up, the smell of delightful treats fill the air, Christmas songs can be heard on the cobble stone streets, live music, concerts and plays entertain children and adults alike and don’t forget the ice rink.

There is something for everyone with events planned every night for more than a month. Christmas inside the walls of Obidos castle is an experience like none other and families always make the short drive from surrounding areas like São Martinho do Porto, Caldas Da Rainha, Nazare, Lourinha, Foz do Arelho and even Lisbon to savor the Obidos Christmas magic.

By Dylan Herholdt

World Cup play-offs: Portugal get lucky

On saturday night, I made the short 50 minute drive from São Martinho do Porto to Estadio da Luz to watch Portugal take on visitors Bosnia in a crunch world cup play off match. With the first leg being played in Lisbon and the second leg in ice cold Bosnia, many believed that the Portuguese team needed a 2 goal cushion going into the second leg. It was not to be, Portugal in front of 50,000 passionate fans were met by a very determined Bosnian side who were unlucky not to come away with a draw at least as they hit the bar on 3 occasions.

The stars from Portugal once again trained in Obidos on the Silver Coast and maybe it was the magic of Obidos Castle that kept the ball from entering the Portuguese goal. They now travel to Bosnia with a slender 1-0 lead thanks to a first half goal from Bruno Alves, they will hope to come away with a win or a draw on wednesday.

Força Portugal!

By Dylan Herholdt

Portuguese Lessons on the Silver Coast

I live in the beautiful town of São Martinho do Porto on the Silver Coast, there are a many things that I love about this place, the bay is stunning, Nazare is just 10 minutes away and is a sight to behold at sunset and home to the Silver Coasts only Irish pub, Obidos castle is spectacular and just 15 minutes away and if that wasn’t enough I can be in Lisbon in less than an hour and watch live sport or some of the best bands in the world perform live.

I have found one more thing that I love and it once again demonstrates the hospitality and kindness that one can experience on the Silver Coast. 5 minutes walk from my apartment is the local school in São Martinho do Porto where for € 6.50 I can attend Portuguese lessons. This is an initiative organized by the tourism board in São Martinho do Porto and a Portuguese lady volunteers her services 3 times a week and teaches me and 20 other people Portuguese.

She is a wonderful woman, warm, inviting and kind . . . just like the Silver Coast.

By Dylan Herholdt

New Hilton Hotel on the Silver Coast

The magic of Obidos is catching on. The next Hilton Hotel is to be built in Obidos, minutes away from the world heritage site Obidos Castle and under an hour away from Lisbon. The world famous hotel chain has recognized how special the Silver Coast really is and has ear marked it as a developing area and a good area to invest in.

People staying in the Hotel will have access to all the hot spots on the Silver Coast, the night life of Caldas da Rainha, the golden beaches of São Martinho do Porto, the gorgeous fresh fish restaurants of Nazare and the world class golf courses in Obidos.

The Hilton Bom Successo Obidos is scheduled to open in 2012.

By Dylan Herholdt

Cascais gets a sweet tooth and follows Obidos example.

Thousands flocked to Cascais to learn more about chocolate, not surprisingly most of those people were women. The beautiful town of Cascais just 20 minutes from Lisbon was the perfect venue for the event put together by the Portugal Cocoa club. Visitors had the opportunity to understand the chocolate making process, learn about the origins of chocolate and most importantly taste different chocolates.

What a lot of people may not have realized is that a much bigger event of this kind has been taking place for years in Obidos on the Silver Coast. The Obidos Chocolate Festival takes place every year and is one of the highlights of the Silver Coast calendar. Held inside the walls of the beautiful castle the event attracts people from São Martinho do Porto, Nazare, Caldas da Rainha and Lisbon.

By Dylan Herholdt

An Iberian world cup?

Portugal and Spain have joined forces and lodged an official bid to jointly host the football world cup in 2018 or 2022. This latest development has presented a real threat to the English world cup bid as both these countries are capable of hosting the tournament individually, but together, there is the potential for one of the greatest tournaments ever.

Portugal has the infrastructure and the stadiums to host an amazing event, as they showed when they hosted Euro 2004. The idea of a world cup here is great news for people on the Silver Coast, a lot of games will be played at the 2 big stadiums in Lisbon which is just under an hour away from places like Obidos, Nazare and São Martinho do Porto. With the high speed train to be completed by 2011 the commute to Lisbon from the Silver Coast will be even shorter.

An Iberian world cup . . . the sky is the limit.

By Dylan Herholdt

How to choose the right agent (Part 4)

What you need when attempting to purchase a property here in Portugal is an honest, hard working and straight talking Estate Agent who will act in your best interests and can be assured that if they put in the work they will get the reward. That last part may sound a little out of place but think about it this way, if you try to work with every agent in the country then firstly you will not build a relationship with any of them and secondly each agent will show you the best villa or apartment they have on that day and then forget about you because they know that you are going to meet another 100 agents afterwards.

Is it not then better for you to have one Agent who puts 110% effort in finding you exactly what you want, rather than many agents who really don’t put in any effort at all? As I mentioned before, maybe it won’t happen the first trip but rest assured if you build a good relationship with that one Agent then he will still be working for you after you have gone home. Even if you see a property online you could ask your agent to go check it out and send you more photos or additional information etc. How much will this cost you? NOTHING AT ALL. Estate Agents in Portugal are paid by the vendor so take advantage of that fact.

So what Agent should you choose to work with here in Portugal? That is an easy one …….. The best Real Estate Agent in Portugal is without a doubt “Prestige Portugal”. We have offices in the Algarve, Lisbon and the Silver Coast. Licensed and regulated by INCI our AMI number is 5185. For more information please visit the “about us” section of our website.

By Colm Wilkinson

Property Investment Tips (part3)

Prices for property on the Silver Coast range from just €150k for new build 2 bedroom apartments walking distance to the beach to only €235k for a new 3 bedroom villa with pool. With prices as low as these, every indicator points to the Silver Coast area having one of the highest growth potentials within the European Union . The area attracts buyers from all over Europe and is only a day’s drive from the centre of the EU. Many continental Europeans do in choose to drive to the Silver Coast which in turn lowers the cost of their holiday meaning they revisit the area more than once each year.

Local buyer interest in the Silver Coast is also strong with many Portuguese recognizing the investment potential of this area. In fact the Portuguese government has been pumping funds into the Silver Coast area since early 2000. Infrastructure improvements have included new motorways, schools, hospitals, commercial centers and within a few years a new high speed train link to Madrid and a new international airport. Currently receiving over 8.8 million euro a day from the EU the government is keen to upgrade the entire greater Lisbon area including the Silver Coast. All this of course has to be taken into consideration when weighing up the investment potential of this area.

Our advice to you …… take a few days , get on a plane to Lisbon and let us introduce you to some fantastic real estate opportunities before you lose out!

By Colm Wilkinson

Ronaldo off injured but Portugal beat Hungary

The Silver Coast air must have done the trick when the Portuguese national team trained in Obidos ahead of their crucial game against Hungary on the 10th of October.

Even though Ronaldo went off injured within 30 minutes, Portugal produced a fine team performance to win 3 – 0 in Lisbon in front of 50,000 passionate supporters. 2 Goals from Simão Sabrosa and 1 goal from Liedson saw the home team come out on top with the vital win.

With Denmark beating Sweden 1 – 0 Portugal now needs to beat Malta on Wednesday to stand a chance of qualifying for the world cup.

It looks like the magic of Obidos may just have done the trick.

By Dylan Herholdt

Property Investment tips (Part 2)

Portugal is an investors paradise . It is an established and well known tourist destination yet is also hugely popular with the holiday home buyers and the retirement community due to its easy access and year round good weather . Obviously as an investor there are three important points to consider when weighing up the merits of any real estate opportunity . 1) Value for money , location , quality etc . 2) How do you intend to service the running costs during the hold period of the investment ? 3) How do you intend to realize your investment , the all important exit strategy .

It is simple to invest wisely in property if you approach it logically and do your homework . Make sure to purchase a property that is appealing to holiday makers (for rental returns) so that you can service the costs of the property during the growth period but also make sure that it is a property which in the future will be appealing to potential buyers , for example think about buyers who would like a retirement property to spend the winter months . It is this profile of client who will have the most to spend on an overseas property in the future as they will have benefited from the 90s – mid 2000 property boom in the UK and Ireland on their residential property . Many of these people will end up downsizing at home and buying an overseas home with the left over funds .

You should be asking yourselves the question where in Portugal offers the best investment potential today ? Well there are certain areas in the Algarve that are indeed interesting such as the Eastern Algarve , more so because it is not a heavily developed as other areas of the Algarve and prices are more realistic . The real winner however is the SILVER COAST region of the country , located just 40 minutes drive from Lisbon this area boasts some of the most beautiful beaches in Europe , one of the lowest costs of living in Portugal and high quality low density development which is still in keeping with traditional Portuguese design .

By Colm Wilkinson

Why Silver Coast is the place to buy

The Silver Coast, a stretch of spectacular coastline that runs for approx 150 km's north of Lisbon up towards the fishing town of Nazare, is now a popular second home destination for buyers keen on Portugal but disenchanted with the Algarve’s high property prices and in search of a more authentic rural lifestyle.

Since the new A8 motorway opened in 2001, cutting 30 minutes off the journey time to Lisbon’s international airport and opening up the region’s long sandy beaches and spectacular landscapes to outsiders, the Silver Coast has seen a steady flow of foreign buyers, attracted by the lower prices, rural lifestyle, famous local abbeys, battlefields and monasteries and its proximity to the shops and culture of Lisbon.

Future infrastructure improvements include the new high speed train link between Madrid and Lisbon, due to complete in 2012, which will cut the journey time between the two Iberian capitals from eight to three hours, and pass through the town of Rio Maior, only 20 minutes drive from Caldas da Rainha.

By Christina Hippisley

Cultural hub on the Silver Coast, Portugal

It’s a warm Friday night in mid July, and the strains of 18th century classical music drift through the streets of Caldas da Rainha, as this bustling market town on Portugal’s Silver Coast celebrates its annual Festa da Musica or Music Festival.

Founded in 1485 by Portugal’s Queen Leonor around the medieval hot springs on the site, and lying within the Estremadura region only 50 minutes drive from Lisbon, Caldas da Rainha (or the “Queen’s Springs”) is one of Portugal’s most historic spa towns, now rapidly building a fresh reputation as the region’s leading cultural centre.

“From 1485 until the late 19th century, Caldas was one of Portugal’s most famous spa towns, and a favourite destination of the Portuguese Royal Family,” says Dr. Fernando da Costa, head of the Town Hall and responsible for driving the town’s rapidly rising profile.

“Now we want to start recreating those glory days. Famous Portuguese painters and authors like Jose Malhoa, Rafael Bordalo Pinheiro and Gil Vicente have all lived and worked here in Caldas and we have just opened a new cultural centre to host our regular programme of operas, jazz concerts and recitals. Portugal’s best known art and design college is here in Caldas, and we are also just about to invest Euros 10m in renovating the historic town centre.“

By Christina Hippisley

Find out what apartments and villas we have for you in and around this exciting town.

Cascais, near Lisbon, goes green.

Not quite on the Silver Coast but close enough; in Cascais, the council has just announced that 40 new parks and green spaces will be constructed in the already beautiful area, located close to Lisbon. Cascais already well known for its Marina, beaches and breathtaking sea facing cliffs will now be well known for its parks, gardens and green spaces. In addition to this, the 100 hundred parks and public gardens that already exist will be renovated and improved.

The idea behind this is to encourage more time spent outdoors and for the people of the community to meet each other and interact. Another testament to the good nature and spirit amongst Portuguese communities, the council is spending €5 Million on the project.

New Library on the Silver Coast

Book worms will flock to Cadaval on the 19th of September at 3:30pm as the new state of the art library is unveiled for the first time. The National Network of Public Libraries is responsible for the initiative as it seeks to expand its amount of ‘local information centres’ throughout the country.

Cadaval, located 45 minutes from Lisbon and close to Obidos, Nazare, São Martinho do Porto and Caldas da Rainha, has funded the construction of the Library as part of their ongoing development which includes a cultural centre and new urban commercial developments.

The Library is made up of 2 floors and features a lovely outdoor reading section, sections for children and adults, a multi media section and an archive section.

Expanding horizons on the Silver Coast . . . in more ways than one.

By Ricardo Santo

Property highlight: Traditional Villa, Silver Coast

Our property highlight is this stunning countryside villa. Recently restored and in amazing condition, this villa is sitting way below market value.

This traditional 3 bed villa is situated in the peaceful area of Bombarral on the Silver Coast, 40 minutes from Lisbon and within 20 minutes of beaches, pubs, restaurants, shops and other amenities.

Find out more . . .

Property Highlight: New Villa, Silver Coast, Portugal

This new Villa is situated in the perfect location, in peaceful country side surroundings but close to the town of Caldas da Rainha with its vibrant night life, restaurants, shops, pubs, street market and cultural events. Caldas Da Rainha is one of the most vibrant towns on the Silver Coast, located under an hour away from Lisbon and 5 minutes from some lovely beaches.

The 3 bed 3 bath villa has been built on a sizeable piece of land with enough space for a big garden and swimming pool. The property features include, a fireplace, warm wooden flooring, central heating, central vacuum, alarm, double glazed windows, semi-fitted kitchen, garage and a BBQ area where you can eat, drink and enjoy gorgeous country side views

Find out more . . .

Highlighted property: Attached Villas,Sao Martinho do Porto, Silver Coast

Our highlighted property is this stunning development in the beautiful village of Salir do Porto on the Silver Coast, just under an hour away from Lisbon.

Jardins de Salir is a closed condominium of attached luxury villas. The Villas will come with fully fitted kitchens, private box garage, large balconies on both floors. Features include Exotic marble in the bathroom, stone flooring and kitchen counter tops, central vacuum, built in sound system, air conditioning in every room, warm wooden flooring in the bedrooms, double glaze windows and electric shutters. Owners will also have access to a condominium lounge and swimming pool area.

The location of this development is the most exciting thing, the property over looks São Martinho do Porto and its gorgeous shell shaped bay, almost all the villas enjoy a breath taking view of either the bay or the country side, even the view from the pool is amazing.

Completion is due in March 2010

Find out more . . .

Dinosaur walk on the Silver Coast

One of the exercises most recommended by doctors is walking and people on the Silver Coast clearly agree with the doctors. The municipality of Lourinha, a Silver Coast town located about 45 minutes from Lisbon, has organised just that... a walk. The aim being to integrate physical well-being with the enjoyment of nature. On September the 13th walkers of all ages will have the opportunity to take part in ‘The Dinosaur Route’. The start is scheduled for 09h00; the starting point will be the Lourinha Museum, ending at ‘Fort Paimogo’.

During the tour, walkers may observe various monuments and buildings of historical interest, and enjoy the pleasant coastal landscape that was once the walk route for dinosaurs.

By Ricardo Santo

Champions League Football in Portugal

Last night (19 Aug 09) I made the short trip from Sao Martinho Do Porto to Lisbon to watch the champions league qualifier between Sporting Lisbon and Fiorentina from Italy. The stadium was packed the green flags and scarves were in abundance and the Sporting fans were in good voice.

I was seated right next to the Fiorentina fans who for such a small number were also making themselves heard. At big football matches like this one there are always plenty of police on hand, football violence is a well documented occurance. But last night I saw something that I had never seen at a football match before. At halftime a large group of Sporting Lisbon fans approached the fence, on the other side of the fence were the Fiorentina fans, the sporting fans took off their green scarves and offered it as a gesture to the visitors in exchange for their purple scarves. At first the Italian vistiors looked quite confused but once the first exchange had been made many more followed, this was quite a sight to behold, oppostion fans from different clubs, different countries swopping scarves and shaking hands.

The game was a very entertaining affair ending in 2-2 draw with both sets of fans applauding the other and the game ending in high spirits, no problems and no violence.

Yet another great display of Portuguese hospitality.

by Dylan Herholdt

Football madness begins again on the Silver Coast

I am unashamedly a Sporting Lisbon supporter, I should mention now that I am usually grossly out numbered at dinner parties or even the local pub, almost everyone I meet here supports Benfica, except the elite few who have their heads screwed on right.

Much to everyones delight, football started this weekend, let the madness begin. Its that time of year again where neigbours become enemies, husbands forget the names of their wives and pubs fill up on the Silver Coast, whether it be in the Irish pub in Nazare, Status bar in Sao Martinho do Porto or Joyces in Caldas Da Rainha. This is the start of the football season and the debate is on in Portugal; Will Porto dominate the league again? Will Benfica stop underachieving after spending so much money in the summer transfer window? Will Sporting be able to qualify for the champions league again?

The other interesting development has been the inclusion of Leiria in Portugals top flight this year. Will they stay up? Will they surprise some of the big teams? Leiria is one of the bigger cities on the Silver Coast and it is the first time in a long time that the region has been represented in the Ligue Sagres.

There is a healthy rivalry among supporters here on the Silver Coast, it is so healthy that if you happen to be on the losing end, the opposition supporters are there to console you and even buy you a beer or two.

Whatever happens, the pubs and restaurants on the Silver Coast will be full, villages divided and the atmosphere electric.

Latest Property Listing:Newly Built Villa, countryside views.

The newly built 3 bed 3 bath Villa is located in the peaceful village of Tornada, under an hour away from Lisbon, Tornada is close to some of the most popular places on the Silver Coast; Caldas Da Rainha, Sao Martinho Do Porto, Foz De Arelho and Salir do Porto. It is a short 10 minute drive to some of the Silver Coasts amazing beaches in Foz De Arelho, Salir Do Porto and Sao Martinho Do Porto.

For a something in the evenings, the villa is 10 minutes away from Caldas Da Rainha with its vibrant pubs, street market and shopping centre. Alternatively the villa is also within 10 minutes of Foz De Arelho where you have the option of 'Green Hill' which is a very popular club or some great beach front pubs that are always busy in the summer.

The Villa is perfectly situated, close to everything you need. In addition it is beautifully finished, warm wooden flooring in the bedrooms, a cozy fire place in the living room, spacious kitchen and plenty of outside space as well as garage and BBQ.

Find out more about this Villa . . .

Sao Martinho Do Porto apartment, bar and disco in basement

Our latest listing is a T0+1 in the beautiful village of Sao Martinho Do Porto on the Silver Coast. The apartment is situated very close to the magnificent shell shaped bar with its beach fron restaurants, shops and bars.

The traditional fishing village was once the holiday destination of choice for the Portuguese royal family and remains the holiday destination of choice for Portuguese people from Lisbon and elsewhere given its lovely beaches, relaxed lifestyle, good weather and its proximty to the capital.

The apartment has a disco and bar area in the basement and essentially could be a T3 with the ammount of space it has.

Find out more. . .

Latest Listing: Semi-detached villas 200m's from the beach

Stylish semi-detached villa in prime location, less than 200m's from the beach.

Situated in the gorgeous 'Areia Branca', these villas have sea views, private basement garage, semi-fitted kitchens, modern finishes, central heating, electric shutters and more. Areia Branca is famous for its relaxed lifestyle and sun soaked beach, these villas are literally a minutes walk from these gorgeous beaches and sea front reastaurants and bars.

The area is abour 45 minutes away from Lisbon

Find out more about these lovely Villas

The Silver Coast, the perfect family destination

The Silver Coast is the perfect holiday destination for families.

Whether it be families with young children or teenagers there is something for everyone. A family would be able to rent a T3 apartment or a villa on the Silver Coast, only under an hour away from Lisbon and accesible by bus and train. Once in a place like Sao Martinho Do Porto the family can take advantage of the safe swimming beach for the kids, the playground, the cinemas and shopping centres near by and the family pubs in the evening.

This has got to be one of the safest places in the world, to teh extent where parents can leave there kids to wonder up and down the promenade or play on the beach while they enjoy some alone time over a fish meal or a chilled bottle of wine.

Being from South Africa you get used to the fact that a pub is not a safe place to take children so for me it is an amazing experience to see the whole family at the pub together until late. Another amazing experience has been how many parents leave their children to play on the beach, walk up and down the streets, go to the play ground or shops and they are never in any danger. Everyone would enjoy their holiday, teenagers can use the reliable public transport to go to the malls, cinemas, clubs or night life hot spots, children can play on the safe swimming beaches, play grounds and visit the summer circus and parents can enjoy a romantic dinner or lunch with the assurance that their children are safe and sound.

Come and visit soon and bring the whole family.

Come see, visit and experience Portugal

Portugal is a modern cosmopolitan country famous throughout the world for its Voyages of discovery, Football, Golf resorts, Fado music, dramatic coastline and beaches.

Visit Portugal with its history, its rich cultural heritage, its natural beauty, its magnificent cuisine and it’s wonderful hospitable people, Portugal will touch your soul like no other place.

Welcome to the Real Portugal!

Visit the Silver Coast
Be overwhelmed by the magnificent Silver Coast. Experience miles of pristine beaches and coast line. Stroll along or grab a coffee on the promenade in the shell shaped bay of Sao Martinho Do Porto, spoil yourself with a glorious meal, or visit the marina in the authentic fishing village of Nazare, discover the village of Obidos nestled within the walls of the historic castle and spend time in the ‘golden golf triangle’, a golfers paradise boasting some of Europe’s most prestigious golf courses. All within a short but scenic 20-minute drive of each other. If you are tired of the rush and looking for solitude here is a perfect opportunity to buy a property in this little peace of paradise!

Visit the Lisbon Coast
For a more cosmopolitan environment visit the historic city of Lisbon. Sintra Palace will capture your imagination as one of Portugal’s world heritage sites. Savour the artistic hub of Estoril with its, casino, cultural centres, amazing Jazz festivals and world famous golf courses. Or lose yourself on the Cascais coastal walkway along the Atlantic sea cliffs and picturesque beaches as the gentle sea breeze clears you of all your city stresses. Enjoy a coffee or meal, in the company of Portugal’s jet set in the many restaurants and coffee shops dotted along this stunning coast. A truly cosmopolitan and prestigious coastline, home to both foreign and local elite.

Find out about our €250 cash back tour.
Find out what to expect on a property tour.

Latest Listing: Traditional Villa in Foz De Arelho

This traditional Villa is in amazing condition. Located on a large piece of land with some fruit trees and space for a large garden and swimming pool. The Villa has recently been restored with stunning flooring and stylish bathrooms, including a hydro massage shower. The shower even has a remote control! The villa also has a nice outside patio, spacious fully fitted kitchen, fire place and garage.

The villa located in the beautiful village of Foz De Arelho, minutes away from the beach, and the breath taking lagoon mouth where the sea and lagoon meets. Foz De Arelho on the Silver Coast, with its stunning beaches and beach front bars and restaurants, easily accessible from the A8 motorway and under an hour away from Lisbon. It is a very popular place in the summer and also has some very popular clubs and bars in the area giving it a vibrant night life.

The price of this 3 bed villa is even more amazing. Taking into account the location and the quality of the build €250.000 is an incredible bargain.

Why Portugal?

Portugal is a cosmopolitan country, the home of Henry the Navigator and Vasco da Gama, with a rich sea fairing heritage and has for centuries witnessed all nationalities embarking and disembarking from great voyages of discovery. Portuguese, have through the centuries become accustomed to traditional visitors from both the “Old World” and exotic visitors from the “New World”. The Portuguese are a friendly and peaceful nation that welcomes all nations, languages and creeds with open arms. Portuguese tend to be multilingual a skill learned in finding the routes of discovery to the Far East and the Americas. Portugal receives visitors with “Beijinhos e Abraços” (kisses and hugs), “Bem Vindo a Portugal” (welcome to Portugal).


ESTABLISHED DEMOCRACY
Portugal has been a stable democracy since 1974. Portugal has no internal political strife and religion is practised freely with no radical elements operating on the fringe of society. Portugal also shares a positive and peaceful relationship with its neighbours and former colonies, i.e. Brazil, Angola etc.

EXTREMELY SAFE INVESTMENT LOCATION
As a location, Portugal meets all the criteria for a low risk investment. It has been a member of the European Union since 1986, part of the single currency since its inception in 2002. Portugal has a stable government and enjoys steady economic growth. Portuguese by their nature are conservative therefore Portugal has not experienced the peaks and troughs of fellow European Union member states. Both economic and population growth has been steady and the proof of this continued success is that Portugal is considered one of the safest countries in Europe to live in.

MASSIVE EU INVESTMENT IN INFRASTRUCTURE
The European Union has between 2000 and 2006, invested €25 billion in Portugal to massively improve the country’s infrastructure. Roads and transport links have been significantly upgraded and soon, construction will begin on a high-speed TGV rail line, which will cut the 10-hour journey from Lisbon to Madrid to less than 3. The European Union pledged a further €22.5 billion over the next six years to improving the infrastructure. Motorways cross the country connecting all the major Portuguese centres including neighbouring Spanish cities; Madrid, Seville etc. The government is also promoting building of a new Lisbon International airport and a new bridge across the river Tejo, to be funded by the EU. Medical, Education, Electricity, Telephone and clean water are available to all its citizens providing a good standard of living for all. Portugal has entered the electronic age as a leader, citizens are able to communicate via the Internet and attend to: banking, bill payments, administrative issues from anywhere in the world. The equation is simple – when infrastructure improves, property prices go up.

HIGH LIVING STANDARDS BUT LOW COST OF LIVING
As part of the EU, Portugal enjoys high living standards including excellent healthcare and education systems, yet it remains one of the least expensive countries in Western Europe. Daily items such as food and wine are of excellent quality and the cost of a meal for a family of four is only around €35 per head.

PLANNING LAWS TO STOP OVERDEVELOPMENT
In 1993 planning laws were introduced, following a rash of over-development in Spain. Portugal has one of the strictest planning laws in Europe, it has been instrumental in preventing Portuguese ‘hotspots’ on the Silver Coast, Blue Coast, Lisbon Coast and Algarve from suffering the same fate as the overdeveloped Spanish Costa’s, allowing the country to maintain its traditional feel and atmosphere. It has restricted the number of new-builds, which has and will continue to push property prices higher.

PRIME TOURISM DESTINATION
Portugal remains a massive destination for tourists. The World Travel and Tourism Council estimates that tourism contributes over €30 billion to the Portuguese economy and is forecasted to grow to €53.5 billion by 2016. Tourism to the country remains rock-solid, which means strong demand for quality accommodation and in turn, higher occupancy rates for investors. Portuguese have learned from the success of resort towns such as Vilamoura, Val da Lobo, Quinta da Lago, Albufeira and Tavira in the Algarve and the revitalization on cosmopolitan centres such as Lisbon, Estoril and Cascais on the Lisbon Coast and applied these valuable lesson in hot spots such as Nazaré, São Martinho do Porto and Obidos on the Silver Coast.

YEAR ROUND RENTAL RETURNS
With its mild winter climate, cheap daily flights from all over Europe and an average of 300 days of sunshine per year, Portugal is a hugely popular year-round destination. Its attractions create a strong tourist demand, which ensures investors can make solid rental returns from holidaymakers throughout the year.

AVAILABILITY OF MORTGAGES
Portugal benefits from a mature banking system unlike some of the emerging Eastern European markets, Portuguese mortgages are readily available to overseas investors. All mortgages are based on status, with proof of income and outgoings required and the mortgage secured on the property in Portugal. The global banking crisis has not affected the Portuguese banks as much as their European counterparts; Portuguese banks tend to be more conservative in boom times and therefore only have to adjust their policies marginally in the lean times. Prestige Portugal benefits from an exclusive protocol with Portugal’s largest private bank, which includes, 72-hour mortgage pre-approval, reduced spreads, 80% LTV and more on villas, townhouses, land or apartments. This means a smaller initial outlay from investors and better overall returns for your investment

Why Portugal? . . . . . . . . . Why not?

by Davide Patricio

Leonard Cohen hails Portugal as a peaceful country.

On thursday the 30th of July Leonard Cohen performed another masterpiece performance. Portuguese people and holiday makers of all ages were treated to a wonderful evening of classic music by the folk legend.

It appeared, however, that the music icon was the one who felt most privelaged. Portugal has become a favourite performance destination for many musicians and singers. Not only do they appreciate the glorious weather or beautiful beaches, but many artrists have been touched by the hospitality and enthusiasm of the Portuguese audience.

I made the trip up to Lisbon from Sao Marinho Do Porto for the spectacle and I was not disappointed. The maestro himself clearly overwhelmed by the reception he received was very vocal about his experience of the people and the country.

"In a world full of chaos and pain, it is wonderful to visit a peaceful country" these words sincerely spoken by Leonard Cohen were received with raptous cheers and applause from a grateful audience.

An amazing evening, guided by the peace and love between a man and a wonderful country.

by Dylan Herholdt

Silver Coast holds First Wine Route Equestrian Tour

The 1st ever Equestrian Wine Route Tour takes place on the 26th of July, at the XXVI Portuguese Wine Festival, which will take place in the Municipal Forest of Bombarral starting on the 18th. Bombarral is a quaint village, set in a magnificent country side location, about 40 minutes from Lisbon and close to Obidos.

The tour is organized by the Humanitarian Association of Volunteer Firemen of Bombarral with the support of the City Council and the Board of the Town of Bombarral, among others.
The participants will leave towards Quinta da Vila Vicosa, owned by Horse company Julio da Fonseca. The first stop is in the Loridos estate, owned by the company Bacalhaa Wines of Portugal, where they will savour and taste the wine on offer.

The Quinta das Cerejeiras will be the next destination where there will be opportunity to enjoy some of the wines produced by the Agricultural Company of Sanguinhal.
The last stop will be at the Portuguese Wine Festival itself, which will deliver lunch and souvenirs to all participants.

The gathering of the participants will take place in the car park of Rua Verissimo Duarte, near the headquarters of the Sport Clube Escolar Bombarralense, with the tour start being scheduled for 9 o’clock.

By Ricardo Santo

Diving baptism at the Berlenga island, Silver Coast

It’s as if I were in an aquarium," describes Jose Parreira, 39 years, at the end of his diving baptism, the scene was the crystal blue waters of the island of Berlenga. Antonio Monteiro, 49 years, was another 'rookie' that could not have accepted a better challenge to improve his first experience of contact with the fascinating underwater world. "To see the fish all around us and nature under water is something unique and unforgettable," he said, adding "we saw two octopuses and a bream" this just after he descended for ten minutes to five meters deep.

Jose and Antonio were two of about a hundred debutantes who participated in the "Underwater Feeling", organized by the Association of Dive Operators of the west region as well as the city hall of Peniche, and is part of the Festival Sabores do Mar of Peniche. Peniche is located within 40 minutes of Lisbon, and 20 minutes away from places like Nazare, Sao Martinho do Porto and Obidos. This activity presents a wonderful day out for people on holiday, staying in apartments, villas or hotels on the Silver Coast

The proposal was attractive: Traveling in a caravel replica of the Discoveries age to the "island of dreams", as referenced, and its calm and transparent waters, abundant in flora and fauna, as well as wreckage of sunken boats, to experience the diving baptism.
The desire to plunge into Berlenga’s waters is powered by enthusiasts and descriptions of various articles published in magazines of the specialty, which describe it as an idyllic place and a spot where everyone should dive at least once in their lives

The date was last 13th of June. The starting point for Berlenga is the pier of Peniche. Some divers followed in the semi-rigid high speed toward the island, while others spent more than two hours to get there. The emotions began for the pleasure of travelling in "Vera Cruz", a rough replica of the discoveries caravel, built up of wooden shipbuilding, according to what is known of the techniques used in the century. XV. It’s almost 24 meters long and the main mast reaches 18 meters.

At the end of the day every one would sit around for hours, over good food and plenty of drink exchanging stories and experiences. "It's a totally different landscape from the swimming pool and we always have our eyes open because we take the mask and oxygen bottle. It surpassed my expectations, because under the sea everything is different and we are in another dimension", reported Antonio Monteiro.

"It was fascinating. I was a fan and I did a course in diving, "says Ligia Ribeiro, 43 years."The water was clear and I loved passing through the fish.

Ana Monteiro, 18, also wants to repeat the experience. "We become fish," she exclaimed. "It is a world apart.”

Diving and shipwrecks tourism are just one of the many beautiful activities one can experience at the Silver Coast of Portugal… why wait? This is one piece of paradise you should discover!

By Ricardo Santo