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30.12.08
New Year’s Day Brunch
Thursday 1st January 2009
10.30 – 14.30 hrs
Variedade de Sumos de Fruta
A selection of Fruit Juices
****
Variedade de Cereais
Choice of Cereals
****
Iogurtes e Fruta Fresca
Yoghurts and Seasonal Fresh Fruits
****
Pão Branco, Pão Integral, Croissants e Torradas
White, Wholemeal Bread and Rolls, Brioches, Croissants and Toast
****
Compotas, Marmelada e Mel
Jams, Marmalades and Honey
****
Carnes Frias, Patés e Queijo
A selection of Cold Meats, Paté and Cheese
****
Ovos, Bacon e Salsichas
Eggs, Grilled Bacon and Sausages
****
Tomate Assado, Feijão Vermelho e Cogumelos no Forno
Tomatoes, Baked Beans and Sautéed Mushrooms
****
Bacalhau à Gomes de Sá
Traditional “Bacalhau “Gomes de Sá”
Traditional Cod fried with onions and garlic, sliced boiled potatoes and garnished with hard boiled eggs and black olives
****
Arroz à Valenciana
Rice “Valenciana”
A delicious rice dish cooked with ham, sausage, peppers, tomatoes and green peas
****
Variedade de Sobremesas
A choice of Portuguese cakes and pastries
****
Café, Chá, Leite, Leite com Chocolate
Coffee, Tea, Milk or Chocolate
10.30 – 14.30 hrs
Variedade de Sumos de Fruta
A selection of Fruit Juices
****
Variedade de Cereais
Choice of Cereals
****
Iogurtes e Fruta Fresca
Yoghurts and Seasonal Fresh Fruits
****
Pão Branco, Pão Integral, Croissants e Torradas
White, Wholemeal Bread and Rolls, Brioches, Croissants and Toast
****
Compotas, Marmelada e Mel
Jams, Marmalades and Honey
****
Carnes Frias, Patés e Queijo
A selection of Cold Meats, Paté and Cheese
****
Ovos, Bacon e Salsichas
Eggs, Grilled Bacon and Sausages
****
Tomate Assado, Feijão Vermelho e Cogumelos no Forno
Tomatoes, Baked Beans and Sautéed Mushrooms
****
Bacalhau à Gomes de Sá
Traditional “Bacalhau “Gomes de Sá”
Traditional Cod fried with onions and garlic, sliced boiled potatoes and garnished with hard boiled eggs and black olives
****
Arroz à Valenciana
Rice “Valenciana”
A delicious rice dish cooked with ham, sausage, peppers, tomatoes and green peas
****
Variedade de Sobremesas
A choice of Portuguese cakes and pastries
****
Café, Chá, Leite, Leite com Chocolate
Coffee, Tea, Milk or Chocolate
29.12.08
New Year's Eve Gala Dinner
Wednesday 31st December 2008
20.30 hrs
Créme Diplomata
Chicken Consommé thickened with tapioca and garnished with chicken
Saladas à Escolha
Selection of Salads
Espelho de Frango Grelhado com “Piri-Piri” Espelho de Perú Assado
Cold Grilled Chicken with Piri Piri Cold Roasted Breast Turkey
Espelho de Mariscos Espelho de Pasteis Mistos
Seafood Platter Traditional Portuguese Pasties
Espelho de Leitão Assado à Bairrada Espelho de Salmão Fumado
Traditional Roast Suckling Pig Fresh Smoked Salmon
Espelho de Perna de Porco Assada
Roast Leg of Pork
Trevo de Línguado com Legumes Crocantes
Sole with Caramelized Vegetables
Filetes de Limanda com Salmão
Fillets of Rock Sole with Salmon
Tranches de Maruca com Manga
Slices of Ling served with Mango
Lombo de Porco Recheado com Murcela
Roast Loin of Pork stuffed with Portuguese Sausage
Bifinhos de Novilho Perfumado com Vinho da Madeira
Fillet of Veal served with Madeira Wine
Peitinhos de Frango Grelhados na Chapa
Grilled Breast of Chicken
Perna de Borrego Assada no Forno com Laranja Caramelizada e Mel de Monchique
Oven Roasted Leg of Lamb with Caramelized Orange and Monchique Honey
Tábua de Queijos
Cheese Board
Doces Variados e Fruta da Época
Selection of Desserts and Fresh Fruit in season
Vinho Branco e Vinho Tinto - Champanhe à Meia Noite
White and Red Wine - Champagne at Midnight
CEIA – AFTER MIDNIGHT
Caldo Verde e Saladas à Escolha
The traditional “Caldo Verde” soup and a Selection of Salads
Dança toda a noite com Música ao Vivo e Grupo de Dança
All night dancing to Live Music and Live Dance Show
20.30 hrs
Créme Diplomata
Chicken Consommé thickened with tapioca and garnished with chicken
Saladas à Escolha
Selection of Salads
Espelho de Frango Grelhado com “Piri-Piri” Espelho de Perú Assado
Cold Grilled Chicken with Piri Piri Cold Roasted Breast Turkey
Espelho de Mariscos Espelho de Pasteis Mistos
Seafood Platter Traditional Portuguese Pasties
Espelho de Leitão Assado à Bairrada Espelho de Salmão Fumado
Traditional Roast Suckling Pig Fresh Smoked Salmon
Espelho de Perna de Porco Assada
Roast Leg of Pork
Trevo de Línguado com Legumes Crocantes
Sole with Caramelized Vegetables
Filetes de Limanda com Salmão
Fillets of Rock Sole with Salmon
Tranches de Maruca com Manga
Slices of Ling served with Mango
Lombo de Porco Recheado com Murcela
Roast Loin of Pork stuffed with Portuguese Sausage
Bifinhos de Novilho Perfumado com Vinho da Madeira
Fillet of Veal served with Madeira Wine
Peitinhos de Frango Grelhados na Chapa
Grilled Breast of Chicken
Perna de Borrego Assada no Forno com Laranja Caramelizada e Mel de Monchique
Oven Roasted Leg of Lamb with Caramelized Orange and Monchique Honey
Tábua de Queijos
Cheese Board
Doces Variados e Fruta da Época
Selection of Desserts and Fresh Fruit in season
Vinho Branco e Vinho Tinto - Champanhe à Meia Noite
White and Red Wine - Champagne at Midnight
CEIA – AFTER MIDNIGHT
Caldo Verde e Saladas à Escolha
The traditional “Caldo Verde” soup and a Selection of Salads
Dança toda a noite com Música ao Vivo e Grupo de Dança
All night dancing to Live Music and Live Dance Show
28.12.08
Dinner - 30th December, 2008
“OUT OF AFRICA” FANCY DRESS NIGHT
19.30 hrs
BUFFET
Creme de Tomate Perfumado com Coentros
Cream of Tomato Soup garnished with Coriander
*****
Saladas à Escolha
Selection of Green and Mixed Salads
*****
Espelho com Paté “Companha”
Pate “Companha”
*****
Lombinhos de Tamboril com Frutos Tropicais
Medallions of Monkfish with Tropical Fruit
*****
Posta de Solha com Molho Dois Vinhos
Fillets of Plaice with a Red and White WIne Sauce
*****
Bifinhos de Perú com Gomos de Maçã Caramelizada
Turkey Steaks with Slices of Apple Dipped in Caramel
*****
Medalhões de Porco Grelhados
Grilled Medallions of Pork
*****
Tortalones com Molho Carbonara
Oven Baked Tortalones with Carbonara Sauce
*****
Doces Variados ou Fruta da Época
Selection of Desserts or Seasonal Fresh Fruit
****
Tábua de Queijos
Cheese Board
****
Vinho Branco ou Tinto
Red or White Wine
19.30 hrs
BUFFET
Creme de Tomate Perfumado com Coentros
Cream of Tomato Soup garnished with Coriander
*****
Saladas à Escolha
Selection of Green and Mixed Salads
*****
Espelho com Paté “Companha”
Pate “Companha”
*****
Lombinhos de Tamboril com Frutos Tropicais
Medallions of Monkfish with Tropical Fruit
*****
Posta de Solha com Molho Dois Vinhos
Fillets of Plaice with a Red and White WIne Sauce
*****
Bifinhos de Perú com Gomos de Maçã Caramelizada
Turkey Steaks with Slices of Apple Dipped in Caramel
*****
Medalhões de Porco Grelhados
Grilled Medallions of Pork
*****
Tortalones com Molho Carbonara
Oven Baked Tortalones with Carbonara Sauce
*****
Doces Variados ou Fruta da Época
Selection of Desserts or Seasonal Fresh Fruit
****
Tábua de Queijos
Cheese Board
****
Vinho Branco ou Tinto
Red or White Wine
27.12.08
New Year's Eve Programme Welcome Dinner
Monday 29th December 2008
19.30 hrs
BUFFET
Créme de Agriões com Presunto
Cream of Watercress Soup with Smoked Ham
*****
Espelho de Pasteis Mistos
A selection of Rissoles
*****
Saladas à Escolha
Choice of the Salad Buffet
*****
Tranches de Cherne com Frutos Secos
Sea Bass served with Dried Fruits
Supremos de Pescada com Banana
Suprêmes of Hake with Banana
*****
Carré de Borrego com Ervas Aromáticas
Sautéed Lamb Cutlets with Aromatic Herbs
*****
Sauté de Novilho com Molho Anatado
Sautéed Veal with Cream Sauce
*****
Esparguete á Primavera
Oven Baked Spaghetti with Vegetables
*****
Doces Variados e Fruta da Época
Chef’s Choice of Desserts and Fresh Fruit
*****
Tábua de Queijos
Cheese Board
****
Vinho Branco ou Tinto
Red or White Wine
26.12.08
Christmas Quiz Answers
Q.1. Name the missing dwarf from Snow White : Doc, Dopey, Grumpy, Happy, Sleepy, Sneezy. A. Bashful
Q.2. Usually shown on T.V. at Christmas, the film Scrooge is based on which Charles Dickens novel? A. A Christmas Carol.
Q.3. what was the name of Scrooges' partner (who visited Scrooge as a ghost)? A. Joseph Marley.
Q.4. Who was crowned King of England on Christmas Day 1066? A. William.
Q.5. In Cockney rhyming slang, what are "mince pies"? A. Eyes.
Q.6. "The cattle are lowing, the baby awakes" is a line from which Christmas carol? A. Away in a Manger.
Q.7. What were the names of the three wise men? A. Caspar, Melchior and Balthazar.
Q.8. What did my true love give to me on the 5th day of Christmas? A. 5 Golden Rings.
Q.9 On the 12th day of Christmas what was the TOTAL number of "items" my true love gave to me? A. 78.
Q.10. Which saints were the parents of the Virgin Mary? A. St. Anne and St. Joachim.
Q.11 Christmas Island in the Pacific belongs to which country's administration? A. Australia.
Q 12. On which date is Epiphany celebrated in the traditional Western Calendar ?
A. 6th January
Q.13. Traditional in Germany at Christmas, what sort of food is stollen ?
A. Cake
Q.14. Which 2 pop musicians wrote "Do they know it's Christmas?" in 1984? A. Bob Geldof and Midge Ure.
Q.15. What is the birthstone of anyone born in December? A. Turquoise or zircon.
Q.16. Where did the domesticated turkey, traditionally eaten at Christmas, originate? A. The United States.
Q.17. By which familiar names are olibanum and opopanax known? A. Frankincense and Myrrh.
Q.18.Which comedian said "Santa Claus had the right idea - visit people only once a year"? A..Victor Borge.
Q.19. How many main arms does a snowflake have? A. 6.
Q.20..Which meat was always roasted for Queen Victoria's Christmas Day dinner? A. Swan
Q.21. Which of these ports should always be decanted - tawny, vintage or ruby? A. Vintage.
Q.22. What is the common name for the evergreen plant Ilex aquifolium? A. English holly.
Q. 23 Which biblical event is commemorated by Twelfth Night? A. Visit of the three wise men to the infant Jesus.
Q.24 What are used as candle-holders at Christingle services? A. Oranges.
Q.25 Which is the driest champagne - sec, brut or demi-sec? A. Brut
Our congratulations to Sarah-Jane Harris - the winner of the 2008 Christmas Quiz. Sarah-Jane has won a weekend for two people in the Hotel Garbe.
Q.2. Usually shown on T.V. at Christmas, the film Scrooge is based on which Charles Dickens novel? A. A Christmas Carol.
Q.3. what was the name of Scrooges' partner (who visited Scrooge as a ghost)? A. Joseph Marley.
Q.4. Who was crowned King of England on Christmas Day 1066? A. William.
Q.5. In Cockney rhyming slang, what are "mince pies"? A. Eyes.
Q.6. "The cattle are lowing, the baby awakes" is a line from which Christmas carol? A. Away in a Manger.
Q.7. What were the names of the three wise men? A. Caspar, Melchior and Balthazar.
Q.8. What did my true love give to me on the 5th day of Christmas? A. 5 Golden Rings.
Q.9 On the 12th day of Christmas what was the TOTAL number of "items" my true love gave to me? A. 78.
Q.10. Which saints were the parents of the Virgin Mary? A. St. Anne and St. Joachim.
Q.11 Christmas Island in the Pacific belongs to which country's administration? A. Australia.
Q 12. On which date is Epiphany celebrated in the traditional Western Calendar ?
A. 6th January
Q.13. Traditional in Germany at Christmas, what sort of food is stollen ?
A. Cake
Q.14. Which 2 pop musicians wrote "Do they know it's Christmas?" in 1984? A. Bob Geldof and Midge Ure.
Q.15. What is the birthstone of anyone born in December? A. Turquoise or zircon.
Q.16. Where did the domesticated turkey, traditionally eaten at Christmas, originate? A. The United States.
Q.17. By which familiar names are olibanum and opopanax known? A. Frankincense and Myrrh.
Q.18.Which comedian said "Santa Claus had the right idea - visit people only once a year"? A..Victor Borge.
Q.19. How many main arms does a snowflake have? A. 6.
Q.20..Which meat was always roasted for Queen Victoria's Christmas Day dinner? A. Swan
Q.21. Which of these ports should always be decanted - tawny, vintage or ruby? A. Vintage.
Q.22. What is the common name for the evergreen plant Ilex aquifolium? A. English holly.
Q. 23 Which biblical event is commemorated by Twelfth Night? A. Visit of the three wise men to the infant Jesus.
Q.24 What are used as candle-holders at Christingle services? A. Oranges.
Q.25 Which is the driest champagne - sec, brut or demi-sec? A. Brut
Our congratulations to Sarah-Jane Harris - the winner of the 2008 Christmas Quiz. Sarah-Jane has won a weekend for two people in the Hotel Garbe.
Christmas Day Swim for Shoes
More than 200 people were on the beach to take part and/or see the Christmas Day "Swim for Shoes" on the beach in front of the Hotel Garbe in Armacao de Pera, Algarve and help to raise more than 600 Euros to buy new shoes for children in an Algarve Orphanage.Father Christmas was well represented - more than fifty attended. Who after singing "We wish you a Merry Christmas" ran down to the waiting sea.
Certificates were awarded to all those who got wet and everyone enjoyed a very welcome glass of Mulled Wine in the Hotel Garbe bar afterwards.
Thank you to everyone who participated.
In order to raise more funds - there is another "Swim for Shoes" on 1st Janauary at 11.00am - just the way to recover from the festivities of New Years Eve - welcome in 2009 by paddling or swimming in the Atlantic Ocean - what an achievement ! Please join us - Fancy Dress Optional.
More photos at http://picasaweb.google.com/HotelGarbe/ChristmasDaySwim2008#
20.12.08
Christmas Eve Dinner
Wednesday 24th December 2008
19.30 hrs
BUFFET
Sopa de Grão com Frango
Chickpea Soup with Chicken
****
Saladas à Escolha
Selection of Salads
****
Espelho de Presunto
Smoked Ham
****
Filetes de Limanda com Salmão e Uvas
Rock Sole Fillets with Salmon and Grapes
****
Tranches de Salmão Grelhadas à Grenoblesa
Fillets of Salmon “Grenobloise”
****
Perna de Borrego Assada no Forno com Molho Menta
Roast Leg of Lamb with Mint Sauce
****
Rósbife com Molho de Vinho Tinto
Roast Beef served with a Red Wine Sauce
****
Lacinhos à Bolonhesa
Oven Baked Pasta with Bolognaise Sauce
****
Doces Variados ou Fruta da Época
Selection of Home Made Desserts or Fresh Fruit
****
Tábua de Queijos
Cheese Board
****
Vinho Branco ou Tinto
Red or White Wine
19.30 hrs
BUFFET
Sopa de Grão com Frango
Chickpea Soup with Chicken
****
Saladas à Escolha
Selection of Salads
****
Espelho de Presunto
Smoked Ham
****
Filetes de Limanda com Salmão e Uvas
Rock Sole Fillets with Salmon and Grapes
****
Tranches de Salmão Grelhadas à Grenoblesa
Fillets of Salmon “Grenobloise”
****
Perna de Borrego Assada no Forno com Molho Menta
Roast Leg of Lamb with Mint Sauce
****
Rósbife com Molho de Vinho Tinto
Roast Beef served with a Red Wine Sauce
****
Lacinhos à Bolonhesa
Oven Baked Pasta with Bolognaise Sauce
****
Doces Variados ou Fruta da Época
Selection of Home Made Desserts or Fresh Fruit
****
Tábua de Queijos
Cheese Board
****
Vinho Branco ou Tinto
Red or White Wine
Early booking Promotion
Book before 31 January 2009 and get a 20% discount on your reservation - no deposit required.
Applies to all holiday dates between 1 April 2009 and 31 October 2009 (offer subject to availability). And you will automatically become a member of our Privilege Club which will entitle you to 20% off all food and drink purchases during your stay. Forget the currency drop and the credit crunch, at the Garbe your Summer 2009 holiday will cost you less. Book on line now.
(This offer cannot be combined with any other offers.)
Applies to all holiday dates between 1 April 2009 and 31 October 2009 (offer subject to availability). And you will automatically become a member of our Privilege Club which will entitle you to 20% off all food and drink purchases during your stay. Forget the currency drop and the credit crunch, at the Garbe your Summer 2009 holiday will cost you less. Book on line now.
(This offer cannot be combined with any other offers.)
18.12.08
Hotel Garbe Christmas Quiz - Win a weekend for two
Q.1. Name the missing dwarf from Snow White: Doc, Dopey, Grumpy, Happy, Sleepy, Sneezy.
Q.2. Usually shown on T.V. at Christmas, the film Scrooge is based on which Charles Dickens novel?
Q.3. What was the name of Scrooges' partner (who visited Scrooge as a ghost)?
Q.4. Who was crowned King of England on Christmas Day 1066?
Q.5. In Cockney rhyming slang, what are "mince pies"? .
Q.6. ”The cattle are lowing, the baby awakes" is a line from which Christmas carol? .
Q.7. What were the names of the three wise men?
Q.8. What did my true love give to me on the 5th day of Christmas?
Q.9 On the 12th day of Christmas what was the TOTAL number of "items" my true love gave to me? .
Q.10. which saints were the parents of the Virgin Mary?
Q.11 Christmas Island in the Pacific belongs to which country's administration?
Q 12. On which date is Epiphany celebrated in the traditional Western Calendar?
Q.13. Traditional in Germany at Christmas, what sort of food is stollen?
Q.14. Which 2 pop musicians wrote "Do they know it's Christmas?" in 1984?
Q.15. What is the birthstone of anyone born in December? ]
Q.16. Where did the domesticated turkey, traditionally eaten at Christmas, originate? .
Q.17. By which familiar names are olibanum and opopanax known
Q.18.Which comedian said "Santa Claus had the right idea - visit people only once a year"?
Q.19. How many main arms does a snowflake have?
Q.20. Which meat was always roasted for Queen Victoria's Christmas Day dinner?
Q.21. Which of these ports should always be decanted - tawny, vintage or ruby?
Q.22. What is the common name for the evergreen plant Ilex aquifolium?
Q.2. Usually shown on T.V. at Christmas, the film Scrooge is based on which Charles Dickens novel?
Q.3. What was the name of Scrooges' partner (who visited Scrooge as a ghost)?
Q.4. Who was crowned King of England on Christmas Day 1066?
Q.5. In Cockney rhyming slang, what are "mince pies"? .
Q.6. ”The cattle are lowing, the baby awakes" is a line from which Christmas carol? .
Q.7. What were the names of the three wise men?
Q.8. What did my true love give to me on the 5th day of Christmas?
Q.9 On the 12th day of Christmas what was the TOTAL number of "items" my true love gave to me? .
Q.10. which saints were the parents of the Virgin Mary?
Q.11 Christmas Island in the Pacific belongs to which country's administration?
Q 12. On which date is Epiphany celebrated in the traditional Western Calendar?
Q.13. Traditional in Germany at Christmas, what sort of food is stollen?
Q.14. Which 2 pop musicians wrote "Do they know it's Christmas?" in 1984?
Q.15. What is the birthstone of anyone born in December? ]
Q.16. Where did the domesticated turkey, traditionally eaten at Christmas, originate? .
Q.17. By which familiar names are olibanum and opopanax known
Q.18.Which comedian said "Santa Claus had the right idea - visit people only once a year"?
Q.19. How many main arms does a snowflake have?
Q.20. Which meat was always roasted for Queen Victoria's Christmas Day dinner?
Q.21. Which of these ports should always be decanted - tawny, vintage or ruby?
Q.22. What is the common name for the evergreen plant Ilex aquifolium?
Q.23. Which biblical event is commemorated by Twelfth Night?
Q.24.What are used as candle-holders at Christingle services?
Q.25.Which is the driest champagne - sec, brut or demi-sec?
Send your answers by e-mail to info@hotelgarbe.com before 3.00pm on 26th December, 2008 - all correct entries will be placed in a draw. The first one drawn will win a weekend for two in the Hotel Garbe. Answers will be posted in early January.
Our thanks to Mrs. Anne Shiel for submitting this quiz.
Boxing Day Dinner
Friday 26th December 2008
19.30 hrs
BUFFET
Sopa de Cogumelos
Mushroom Soup
*****
Saladas à Escolha
Selection of Green and Mixed of Salads
*****
Espelho de Carnes Frias Sortidas
A Platter of Assorted Cold Meat
****
Rolinhos de “Red Fish” com Quivi
Paupiettes of Red Fish with Kiwi
*****
Supremos de Línguado com Amêndoa Algarvia
Suprêmes of Sole with Almonds
*****
Peito de Pato com Molho Agridoce
Breast of Duck served with a Sweet and Sour Sauce
*****
Bifinhos Grelhados com Manteiga de Alho
Grilled Minute Steaks served with Garlic Butter
*****
“Penne Rigate” com Molho Natas e Ervas
Oven Baked Pasta with Cream and Herb Sauce
*****
Doces Variados e Fruta da Época
Selection of Desserts and Fresh Fruit
*****
Tábua de Queijos
Cheese Board
****
Vinho Branco ou Tinto
Red or White Wine
19.30 hrs
BUFFET
Sopa de Cogumelos
Mushroom Soup
*****
Saladas à Escolha
Selection of Green and Mixed of Salads
*****
Espelho de Carnes Frias Sortidas
A Platter of Assorted Cold Meat
****
Rolinhos de “Red Fish” com Quivi
Paupiettes of Red Fish with Kiwi
*****
Supremos de Línguado com Amêndoa Algarvia
Suprêmes of Sole with Almonds
*****
Peito de Pato com Molho Agridoce
Breast of Duck served with a Sweet and Sour Sauce
*****
Bifinhos Grelhados com Manteiga de Alho
Grilled Minute Steaks served with Garlic Butter
*****
“Penne Rigate” com Molho Natas e Ervas
Oven Baked Pasta with Cream and Herb Sauce
*****
Doces Variados e Fruta da Época
Selection of Desserts and Fresh Fruit
*****
Tábua de Queijos
Cheese Board
****
Vinho Branco ou Tinto
Red or White Wine
Royal British Legion Christmas Lunch
A few photos from the Royal British Legion Christmas lunch which took place here yesterday.
The Algarve Sub-Branch now has a membership of 150 and meets the 3rd. Wednesday of every month at Hotel Garbe for lunch. All visiting RBL members are welcome and please join us in the Bar for pre-lunch drinks at mid-day. For more information please contact Mr. Peter Wilkinson at thewilkinsons@iol.pt. More photos can be seen here
Christmas Day Gala Dinner
Thursday 25th December 2008
19.30 hrs
BUFFET
Créme Princesa
Cream of Asparagus
****
Rolinhos de Peixe Galo Recheados com Bacon
Paupiettes of John Dory stuffed with Bacon
****
Tranches de Cherne com Molho de Alperce
Sea Bass with Apricot Sauce
****
Perú Assado com Salsichas e Castanhas Caramelizadas
Succulent Roast Turkey with Sausages and Caramelized Chestnuts
****
Medalhões de Novilho com Molho Cogumelos Perfumado com Vinho do Porto
Medallions of Veal served with Mushrooms and a Porto Wine Sauce
****
Tagliatelle com Molho Primavera
Tagliatelle with a ”Primavera” Sauce
****
Espelho de Salmão Fumado
Smoked Salmon
****
Tábua de Queijos
Cheese Board
****
Pudim de Natal
Traditional Christmas Pudding served with Brandy and Orange Sauce
****
Sobremesas Tradicionais de Natal
A choice of Portuguese Christmas Desserts
****
Café & Petit Fours no Bar
Coffee & Petit Fours in the Bar
****
Vinho Tinto ou Branco
Red or White Wine
****
Visita Especial do Pai Natal
Special appearance by Father Christmas
19.30 hrs
BUFFET
Créme Princesa
Cream of Asparagus
****
Rolinhos de Peixe Galo Recheados com Bacon
Paupiettes of John Dory stuffed with Bacon
****
Tranches de Cherne com Molho de Alperce
Sea Bass with Apricot Sauce
****
Perú Assado com Salsichas e Castanhas Caramelizadas
Succulent Roast Turkey with Sausages and Caramelized Chestnuts
****
Medalhões de Novilho com Molho Cogumelos Perfumado com Vinho do Porto
Medallions of Veal served with Mushrooms and a Porto Wine Sauce
****
Tagliatelle com Molho Primavera
Tagliatelle with a ”Primavera” Sauce
****
Espelho de Salmão Fumado
Smoked Salmon
****
Tábua de Queijos
Cheese Board
****
Pudim de Natal
Traditional Christmas Pudding served with Brandy and Orange Sauce
****
Sobremesas Tradicionais de Natal
A choice of Portuguese Christmas Desserts
****
Café & Petit Fours no Bar
Coffee & Petit Fours in the Bar
****
Vinho Tinto ou Branco
Red or White Wine
****
Visita Especial do Pai Natal
Special appearance by Father Christmas
17.12.08
Coming Hypnosis Workshop - Wednesday, 14th January
Have you ever wondered how hypnosis works?
Would you like to be more motivated, focused or relaxed in all you do?
As you read this will you find your curiosity growing?
Tony Westwood, International Speaker, Hypnotist and Golf Professional has combined his years of experience from the golfing world and his understanding of hypnosis to create a unique learning experience.
You can begin to think yourself better by understanding how your mind actually works.
When you buy a computer it comes with a manual in many languages to help you understand how the computer works.
The computer in your head is many, many more times powerful than any computer ever created by man and no one has ever been given a user manual for their brain.
These workshops will help you understand how to control your thinking in life by learning how your conscious and unconscious minds actually communicate.
To find out how you can attend a workshop and learn more call:00 (351) 910 960 464 or e-mail hypnogolf@gmail.comNEXT WORKSHOP: Hotel Garbe, Armacao de Pera
DATE: Wednesday 14th January, 2009
TIME: 19:00COST: 15 euros
Would you like to be more motivated, focused or relaxed in all you do?
As you read this will you find your curiosity growing?
Tony Westwood, International Speaker, Hypnotist and Golf Professional has combined his years of experience from the golfing world and his understanding of hypnosis to create a unique learning experience.
You can begin to think yourself better by understanding how your mind actually works.
When you buy a computer it comes with a manual in many languages to help you understand how the computer works.
The computer in your head is many, many more times powerful than any computer ever created by man and no one has ever been given a user manual for their brain.
These workshops will help you understand how to control your thinking in life by learning how your conscious and unconscious minds actually communicate.
To find out how you can attend a workshop and learn more call:00 (351) 910 960 464 or e-mail hypnogolf@gmail.comNEXT WORKSHOP: Hotel Garbe, Armacao de Pera
DATE: Wednesday 14th January, 2009
TIME: 19:00COST: 15 euros
Murder Mystery Dinners at the Hotel Garbe
Following the great success of the Murder Mystery Dinner in November - please see photos here, three more have already been planned for 2009.
16th January - Murder at the Country Club - details below
30th January - Murder on the Silver Screen
13th February - Murder on the Silver Screen
The time is the present, the place is the Country Club Hotel, where John Dosh the millionaire owner has invited his staff to a wine tasting. But, before the corks were drawn John Dosh was found murdered in the wine cellar!
He thought he could trust his employees, so who gave him his P45?
Join the party to solve the Murder at The Country Club.
The evenings cost 29 euros per person, please book your table or individual places at least 2 weeks prior to be able to receive your invitation with the part you will play and get together your costume (nothing outlandish, as they are all staff of the Country Club).
Proceeds of the evening will go to APAA. (Association for Protection of Animals Algarve)
16th January - Murder at the Country Club - details below
30th January - Murder on the Silver Screen
13th February - Murder on the Silver Screen
Who Murdered John Dosh?
The time is the present, the place is the Country Club Hotel, where John Dosh the millionaire owner has invited his staff to a wine tasting. But, before the corks were drawn John Dosh was found murdered in the wine cellar!
He thought he could trust his employees, so who gave him his P45?
Join the party to solve the Murder at The Country Club.
The evenings cost 29 euros per person, please book your table or individual places at least 2 weeks prior to be able to receive your invitation with the part you will play and get together your costume (nothing outlandish, as they are all staff of the Country Club).
Proceeds of the evening will go to APAA. (Association for Protection of Animals Algarve)
Christmas Programme - Welcome Dinner
Tuesday 23rd December 2008
19.30 hrs
BUFFET
Créme de Abobora com Cebolinho
Cream of Pumpkin Soup with Baby Onions
****
Saladas à Escolha
Selection of Seasonal Salads
****
Espelho de Muchelitos
Deep Fried Crab Claws
****
Tranches de Pescada com Molho de Crustácios
Slices of Hake with Seafood Sauce
****
Posta de Espadarte Grelhada com Ananás
Grilled Swordfish with Pineapple
****
Lombo de Porco Recheado com Espargos
Roast Loin of Pork stuffed with Asparagus
****
Perninhas de Frango à “Boujolais”
Legs of Chicken with Wild Berries
****
Fussilli com Molho Tomate e Pesto
Fusilli with Tomato and Pesto Sauce
****
Fruta da Época e Doces Variados
Fresh Fruit and Choice of Desserts
****
Tábua de Queijos
Cheese Board
****
Vinho Branco ou Tinto
Red or White Wine
19.30 hrs
BUFFET
Créme de Abobora com Cebolinho
Cream of Pumpkin Soup with Baby Onions
****
Saladas à Escolha
Selection of Seasonal Salads
****
Espelho de Muchelitos
Deep Fried Crab Claws
****
Tranches de Pescada com Molho de Crustácios
Slices of Hake with Seafood Sauce
****
Posta de Espadarte Grelhada com Ananás
Grilled Swordfish with Pineapple
****
Lombo de Porco Recheado com Espargos
Roast Loin of Pork stuffed with Asparagus
****
Perninhas de Frango à “Boujolais”
Legs of Chicken with Wild Berries
****
Fussilli com Molho Tomate e Pesto
Fusilli with Tomato and Pesto Sauce
****
Fruta da Época e Doces Variados
Fresh Fruit and Choice of Desserts
****
Tábua de Queijos
Cheese Board
****
Vinho Branco ou Tinto
Red or White Wine
16.12.08
Theatre Dinner - 4th and 5th March, 2008
Raj Indian Restaurant
THE JEFFERIES ENGLISH THEATRE
Presents
“THE WAITRESS”
A light comedy
by
Nick Warburton
DIRECTED BY SUZANNE JEFFERIES
Wednesday 4th and Thursday 5th March, 2009
7.00 for 7.30 pm
Only 30,00 Euros per person
3 Course Indian Dinner with Wine and Coffee
Don’t miss it book now.
Hotel Garbe, Armação de Pêra
Tel.282 320260 Fax: 282 315087
E-Mail hotelgarbe@mail.telepac.pt Web:-www.hotel garbe.com
THE JEFFERIES ENGLISH THEATRE
Presents
“THE WAITRESS”
A light comedy
by
Nick Warburton
DIRECTED BY SUZANNE JEFFERIES
Wednesday 4th and Thursday 5th March, 2009
7.00 for 7.30 pm
Only 30,00 Euros per person
3 Course Indian Dinner with Wine and Coffee
Don’t miss it book now.
Hotel Garbe, Armação de Pêra
Tel.282 320260 Fax: 282 315087
E-Mail hotelgarbe@mail.telepac.pt Web:-www.hotel garbe.com
12.12.08
Christmas Eve Dinner Menu
CHRISTMAS EVE DINNER
Wednesday 24th December 2008
19.30 hrs
BUFETE - BUFFET
Sopa de Grão com Frango
Chickpea Soup with Chicken
****
Saladas à Escolha
Selection of Salads
****
Espelho de Presunto
Smoked Ham
****
Filetes de Limanda com Salmão e Uvas
Rock Sole Fillets with Salmon and Grapes
****
Tranches de Salmão Grelhadas à Grenoblesa
Fillets of Salmon “Grenobloise”
****
Perna de Borrego Assada no Forno com Molho Menta
Roast Leg of Lamb with Mint Sauce
****
Rósbife com Molho de Vinho Tinto
Roast Beef served with a Red Wine Sauce
****
Lacinhos à Bolonhesa
Oven Baked Pasta with Bolognaise Sauce
****
Doces Variados ou Fruta da Época
Selection of Home Made Desserts or Fresh Fruit
****
Tábua de Queijos
Cheese Board
****
Vinho Branco ou Tinto
Red or White Wine
Wednesday 24th December 2008
19.30 hrs
BUFETE - BUFFET
Sopa de Grão com Frango
Chickpea Soup with Chicken
****
Saladas à Escolha
Selection of Salads
****
Espelho de Presunto
Smoked Ham
****
Filetes de Limanda com Salmão e Uvas
Rock Sole Fillets with Salmon and Grapes
****
Tranches de Salmão Grelhadas à Grenoblesa
Fillets of Salmon “Grenobloise”
****
Perna de Borrego Assada no Forno com Molho Menta
Roast Leg of Lamb with Mint Sauce
****
Rósbife com Molho de Vinho Tinto
Roast Beef served with a Red Wine Sauce
****
Lacinhos à Bolonhesa
Oven Baked Pasta with Bolognaise Sauce
****
Doces Variados ou Fruta da Época
Selection of Home Made Desserts or Fresh Fruit
****
Tábua de Queijos
Cheese Board
****
Vinho Branco ou Tinto
Red or White Wine
30 Euros per person
9.12.08
Theatre Dinner - 21st and 22nd January
Raj at Garbe Indian Restaurant
Presents
A COMEDY
“Snakes and Ladders”
written by
Nicky Moran
STARRING
Nicky Moran
A reformed bag lady - Margaret Draper ( 65 years) coming to terms
with living in shelterd accommodation.
STAGE MANAGER
Midge Ridgley
on
Wednesday 21st and Thursday 22nd January, 2009
7.00 for 7.30 pm
3 Course Indian Dinner
with Wine and Coffee
30,00 Euros per person
Don’t miss it book now.
Tel.282 320260 - Fax: 282 315087 - E-Mail: mail@hotelgarbe.com
Presents
A COMEDY
“Snakes and Ladders”
written by
Nicky Moran
STARRING
Nicky Moran
A reformed bag lady - Margaret Draper ( 65 years) coming to terms
with living in shelterd accommodation.
STAGE MANAGER
Midge Ridgley
on
Wednesday 21st and Thursday 22nd January, 2009
7.00 for 7.30 pm
3 Course Indian Dinner
with Wine and Coffee
30,00 Euros per person
Don’t miss it book now.
Tel.282 320260 - Fax: 282 315087 - E-Mail: mail@hotelgarbe.com
November Photography Competition
Congratulations to Philip Kinder who has won our November Photography Competition.
Our Judge, Adrian Bell, an experienced wedding and portrait photographer comments:-
This month the winner is number 9 - the Christmas Penguins walking on the beach towards the Hotel. Although not technically a good image, the photographer has moved on from just shooting what is there and (I presume) he has taken control by setting out the Penguins to create a compelling and humorous story.
Highly Commended are, 13 a view of the beach with an interesting foreground, 17 the sea view and lampost in sparkly light, 21 and 22 the old railings and shutters (with cat).
I also loved 18 the close up of the family in a colourful fishing boat but it looks like a very small image file and is therefore probably of poor quality.
I also loved 18 the close up of the family in a colourful fishing boat but it looks like a very small image file and is therefore probably of poor quality.
Our thanks to everyone who participated in the NovemberPhotography Competition click here to see all entries.
Also thanks to Adrian Bell for judging each month. Adrian is an experienced wedding and portrait photographer and is Director of http://www.hi-impactphotography.com/ here in the Algarve. The company specialises in Commercial Images for the Real Estate industry creating high quality photography that sells property.
Please send entries for our December competition before closing date - 31st December. For more information please click here
6.12.08
5.12.08
Christmas Day Swim for Shoes
We are doing it again!!!
Where will you be on Christmas Day?
The place to be will be on the beach at Armacao de Pera in front of the Hotel Garbe with other adventurous people willing to go for a paddle or a swim in the Atlantic Ocean to help raise money for the Swim for Shoes Appeal
All you need to do is turn up at 11.00 a.m on Christmas Day with swimwear, towel and go in for a full swim or just a paddle – the choice is yours as long as part of you gets wet! Then we can all recover in the Hotel Garbe bar with a Hot Toddy on Christmas Day and hot chocolate on New Years Day, generously donated by The Hotel Garbe, to everyone who has taken part.
Buying shoes for the children who are in care is an ongoing expense and we want to help as many as possible start 2009 with a new pair of shoes. Each child of school age needs a pair of gym shoes and a pair of trainers. Whilst some clothes can be second hand owning a pair of new shoes helps to ensure the children feel good and fit in at school.Adults and children are all welcome to take part on the understanding that you do so at your own risk. If you have family and friends staying over the festive season it will certainly be something different to do!
The total raised for the swims on Christmas Day and New Years Day was over € 1,700.00 .
This was all given to pay for school shoes for the teenagers at A Gaivota in Albufeira which is run by the Santa Casa da Misericordia. The children have asked for their thanks to be sent to all who took part . The girls and boys really enjoyed choosing their own shoes as this was the first time they had been able to do so. In the shoe shop the girls kept bumping into girls from their school doing the same thing with their mums.
If you would like to see some photographs of the Christmas Day Swim, 2007 please go to http://picasaweb.google.com/HotelGarbe/SwimForShoesChristmasDay2007#
On Christmas Day we hope people will come with either a Santa outfit or hat which are in some stores now . Buy yours now before stocks run out. We will have a limited supply of outfits and hats for sale on the day. If we can raise more money this year then we can extend the scheme to other homes.
You will have another opportunity to Swim for Shoes on New Years Day but this time we hope to see you there in fancy dress so start planning your outfit now. As this is a charity event we will gratefully accept all donations offered
Coming up - Lecture - A Gardener's Life
Monday, 19th January, 2009 - 7.30pm.
A talk by Alan Mason NDT. F. Inst G. Dip Hort. M.I. Hort, garden designer and broadcaster
Alan has presented television programmes for 20 years. He is a founder member of the Professional Gardener's Guild and spent the early part of his career as Head Gardener at British Stately homes. He lectures and judges the show gardens at the prestigious Sandringham Flower show.
This talk revisits some of the gardens and gardeners he has met during his career and takes us on a tour around Europe.
Informative and humorous, it's all part of A Gardener's Life.
Tickets are available at 10 Euros per person.Includes coffee
Don't miss it
For more information contact Vicki Good on 282 320260 or e-mail mailto:info@hotelgarbe.com
A talk by Alan Mason NDT. F. Inst G. Dip Hort. M.I. Hort, garden designer and broadcaster
Alan has presented television programmes for 20 years. He is a founder member of the Professional Gardener's Guild and spent the early part of his career as Head Gardener at British Stately homes. He lectures and judges the show gardens at the prestigious Sandringham Flower show.
This talk revisits some of the gardens and gardeners he has met during his career and takes us on a tour around Europe.
Informative and humorous, it's all part of A Gardener's Life.
Tickets are available at 10 Euros per person.Includes coffee
Don't miss it
For more information contact Vicki Good on 282 320260 or e-mail mailto:info@hotelgarbe.com
Is this your shopping?
The items in this photo were left behind at the Christmas Fayre on 1st December, 2008. If the items are yours please telephone us on 282 320260.Theatre Dinner “Snakes and Ladders”
In our mail box this morning
Please find attached Nicky in full flow and at her best - what a great night and fantastic audience response.
Regards Peter
Please find attached Nicky in full flow and at her best - what a great night and fantastic audience response.
Regards Peter
2.12.08
Christmas Fayre Quiz Answers
1. Who discovered and named Christmas Island on December 25th 1777?
Answer – Captain James Cook
2. What would your star sign be if born on Christmas Day?
Answer – Capricorn
3. What is the capital of Turkey?
Answer – Ankara
4. In which city is Wenceslas Square?
Answer – Prague
5. Which song contains the line, “He’s making a list and checking it twice”?
Answer – Santa Claus is Coming to Town
Congratulations to John Brancker who won a weekend for two at the Hotel Garbe. His correct entry was the first to be drawn out.
Answer – Captain James Cook
2. What would your star sign be if born on Christmas Day?
Answer – Capricorn
3. What is the capital of Turkey?
Answer – Ankara
4. In which city is Wenceslas Square?
Answer – Prague
5. Which song contains the line, “He’s making a list and checking it twice”?
Answer – Santa Claus is Coming to Town
Congratulations to John Brancker who won a weekend for two at the Hotel Garbe. His correct entry was the first to be drawn out.
1.12.08
What's On - Bar Boa Vista - December, 2008
Monday, 1st December –Christmas Fayre – 11.00-17.00hrs
Monday, 1st December - Nuno - Resident Organist
Tuesday, 2nd December - Arte Viva - Music For Dancing
Wednesday, 3rd December - João Caracol- Music For Dancing
Thursday, 4th December - Nuno - Resident Organist
Friday, 5th December - Nuno - Resident Organist
Saturday, 6th December - Sandra & Jorge- Music For Dancing-
Sunday, 7th December - Carlos Pontes - Music For Dancing
Monday, 8th December - Folklore Dancers – 9.30pm
Tuesday, 9th December - Nuno - Resident Organist
Wednesday, 10th December - João Caracol- Music For Dancing,
Thursday, 11th December - Ilze- Singer
Friday, 12th December - Xico - Guitar Player
Saturday, 13th December - Sandra & Jorge- Music For Dancing
Sunday, 14th December - Presumed Innocent - Dancers
Monday, 15th December - Nuno - Resident Organist
Tuesday, 16th December - Arte Viva - Music For Dancing
Wednesday, 17th December - João Caracol- Music For Dancing
Thursday, 18th December - Nuno - Resident Organist
Friday, 19th December - Nuno - Resident Organist
Saturday, 20th December- Sandra & Jorge- Music For Dancing-
Sunday, 21st December - Carlos Pontes - Music For Dancing
Monday, 22nd December - Folklore Dancers – 9.30pm
Tuesday, 23rd December –Mulled Wine, Mince Pies And Carol Singing
Tuesday, 23rd December -Nuno- Resident Organist – Dancing In The Bar
Wednesday, 24th December - João Caracol –Dancing In The Bar
Thursday, 25th December - Christmas Day Dip In The Sea For Charity
Thursday, 25th December - Ilze- Singer- Dancing In The Bar
Friday, 26th December - Xico - Guitar Player – Dancing In The Bar
Saturday, 27th December- Sandra & Jorge- Music For Dancing
Sunday, 28th December - Nuno- Resident Organist – Dancing In The Bar
Monday, 29th December - Nuno - Resident Organist
Tuesday, 30th December - “Out Of Africa” Fancy Dress Night
Wednesday, 31st December – New Years’s Eve Gala Dinner With Presumed Innocent
Monday, 1st December - Nuno - Resident Organist
Tuesday, 2nd December - Arte Viva - Music For Dancing
Wednesday, 3rd December - João Caracol- Music For Dancing
Thursday, 4th December - Nuno - Resident Organist
Friday, 5th December - Nuno - Resident Organist
Saturday, 6th December - Sandra & Jorge- Music For Dancing-
Sunday, 7th December - Carlos Pontes - Music For Dancing
Monday, 8th December - Folklore Dancers – 9.30pm
Tuesday, 9th December - Nuno - Resident Organist
Wednesday, 10th December - João Caracol- Music For Dancing,
Thursday, 11th December - Ilze- Singer
Friday, 12th December - Xico - Guitar Player
Saturday, 13th December - Sandra & Jorge- Music For Dancing
Sunday, 14th December - Presumed Innocent - Dancers
Monday, 15th December - Nuno - Resident Organist
Tuesday, 16th December - Arte Viva - Music For Dancing
Wednesday, 17th December - João Caracol- Music For Dancing
Thursday, 18th December - Nuno - Resident Organist
Friday, 19th December - Nuno - Resident Organist
Saturday, 20th December- Sandra & Jorge- Music For Dancing-
Sunday, 21st December - Carlos Pontes - Music For Dancing
Monday, 22nd December - Folklore Dancers – 9.30pm
Tuesday, 23rd December –Mulled Wine, Mince Pies And Carol Singing
Tuesday, 23rd December -Nuno- Resident Organist – Dancing In The Bar
Wednesday, 24th December - João Caracol –Dancing In The Bar
Thursday, 25th December - Christmas Day Dip In The Sea For Charity
Thursday, 25th December - Ilze- Singer- Dancing In The Bar
Friday, 26th December - Xico - Guitar Player – Dancing In The Bar
Saturday, 27th December- Sandra & Jorge- Music For Dancing
Sunday, 28th December - Nuno- Resident Organist – Dancing In The Bar
Monday, 29th December - Nuno - Resident Organist
Tuesday, 30th December - “Out Of Africa” Fancy Dress Night
Wednesday, 31st December – New Years’s Eve Gala Dinner With Presumed Innocent
Bar “Boa Vista”- 9.00pm - Happy Hour Every Day From 6.00 To 8.00pm
The Facilities And Entertainment Featured May Change Without Notice
28.11.08
Christmas Fayre - 1st December, 2008
Contributed
COUNTDOWN TO CHRISTMAS - Father Christmas
How did the story of Father Christmas evolve? Pictures abound everywhere of the old man with long white beard, red coat and bags of toys who has become the human face of Christmas. He brings presents either on Dec 6th, St Nicholas´Day or the night before Christmas. But who was he ? He is based on St Nicholas which explains his other name Santa Claus which comes from the Dutch Sinterklaas. Nicholas was a Christian leader and Bishop from Myra ( in modern day Turkey) in the 4th century AD. He was very shy and wanted to give money to poor people without them knowing about it. It is said that one day he climbed the roof of a house and dropped a purse of money down the chimney. It landed in the stocking which a girl had put to dry by the fire ! This may explain the belief that Father Christmas comes down the chimney and places gifts in children´s stockings. More fascinating facts of how the kindly Christian saint became a roly- poly, red suited American symbol for merry holiday festivity and commercial activity can be found on www.stnicholascenter.org
You have an exciting opportunity to see Father Christmas opening the NETWORK Christmas Fayre at the Hotel Garbe at 1100 on Dec 1st.
Then just follow the Penguin Trail to find him in his Grotto. All proceeds will go to Castelo dos Sonhos helping to provide for the needy at Christmas time.
Also this year for just €5 you , your children and grandchildren will be able to have a photo taken with Father Christmas and printed on the spot by John Oliver (www.johnoliversphotography.com) with a €1 donation made from each print to Castelo dos Sonhos
Verna Kinder
Royal British Legion November Lunch
The monthly Royal British Legion lunch which took place on Wednesday. The Algarve Sub-Branch now has a membership of 150 and meets the 3rd. Wednesday of every month at Hotel Garbe for lunch. All visiting RBL members are welcome and please join us in the Bar for pre-lunch drinks at mid-day. For more information please contact Mr. Peter Wilkinson at thewilkinsons@iol.pt. More photos can be seen here
26.11.08
25.11.08
Murder Mystery Dinner
Contributed
Frivolous fun
It’s not often that a successful social evening commences with a Police Report!
However at a Murder Mystery dinner party held at Hotel Garbe last week, there was a crime scene investigation and vigorous cross-questioning of the suspects!
The people in the frame – a group of 48 expatriate guests – were dressed for the occasion. Participants required a sense of humour taking on roles such as Christopher Bossy-le-Boots, Nikki Melons, Renee Scrubber and Terry Plant, a gardener who likes digging the dirt!
This was the first time the hotel has hosted a Murder Mystery evening which included an Indian meal at the Raj at the Garbe restaurant.
Organised by Jenny Tucker, 350 euros were raised to support the charity, APAA (Association for the Protection of Animals Algarve). Raffle pries and bottles of wine presented to the winning participants were generously donated by Wine Mine, Let the Magic In and Pat and Alan Camplin-Smith.
By popular demand the hotel intends to run another Murder Mystery evening in January.
E-mail received from participant:
"Thank you very much for last night; I don't think we have laughed so much in ages. Roll on the next one and well done on your fundraising."
October Photography Competition
Congratulations to Grant Bremner who has won our October Photography Competition.Our Judge, Adrian Bell, an experienced wedding and portrait photographer comments:- the winner this month is the fishing trip with birds in accompaniment hoping for some scraps to be thrown their way. This reminds us that with or without tourism, Armacao continues to flourish as a colourful and vibrant fishing village.
Our thanks to everyone who participated in the October Photography Competition click here to see all entries.
Also thanks to Adrian Bell for judging each month. Adrian is an experienced wedding and portrait photographer and is Director of http://www.hi-impactphotography.com/ here in the Algarve. The company specialises in Commercial Images for the Real Estate industry creating high quality photography that sells property.
Please send entries for the November competition before closing date - 30th November. For more information please click here
21.11.08
Christmas Fayre - Monday, 1st December
Don't miss the Network Christmas Fayre at the Hotel on 1st December, 2008.
More than 70 stands selling a wide selection of crafts, Christmas gifts, clothing, home furnishings, books, , beauty therapy and much, much more.
Doors open to the public 11am – 5pm
PROGRAMME
1100 Father Christmas arrives to open the Fayre heralded by the Charity Keep Fitters Carol Singers
1130 Charity Keep Fitters Carol Singers Boa Vista Bar
1200 Charity Keep Fitters Carol Singers Raj Restaurant
1230 Rajmataz - Middle Eastern Dancing
1300 Fashion Flash by Jouk's Studio
1400 Fashion Flash by Fi -Line Fashions with Fiona
1430 Rajmataz - Middle Eastern Dancing
1500 Fashion Flash by Collections
1600 Grand Raffle Draw
1700 Fayre Closes
12.30-8.00pm - Indian Curry Buffet - 15 Euros per person Restaurant Por do Sol
Taste of Christmas Bar Snacks - Bar Boa Vista
Entry Free
More than 70 stands selling a wide selection of crafts, Christmas gifts, clothing, home furnishings, books, , beauty therapy and much, much more.
Doors open to the public 11am – 5pm
PROGRAMME
1100 Father Christmas arrives to open the Fayre heralded by the Charity Keep Fitters Carol Singers
1130 Charity Keep Fitters Carol Singers Boa Vista Bar
1200 Charity Keep Fitters Carol Singers Raj Restaurant
1230 Rajmataz - Middle Eastern Dancing
1300 Fashion Flash by Jouk's Studio
1400 Fashion Flash by Fi -Line Fashions with Fiona
1430 Rajmataz - Middle Eastern Dancing
1500 Fashion Flash by Collections
1600 Grand Raffle Draw
1700 Fayre Closes
12.30-8.00pm - Indian Curry Buffet - 15 Euros per person Restaurant Por do Sol
Taste of Christmas Bar Snacks - Bar Boa Vista
Entry Free
Calendar of Events
December, 2008 - February, 2009
Thursday, 25th December - Christmas Day Dip in the Sea
Tuesday, 30th December - "Out of Africa" Fancy Dress Night
Thursday, 1st January - New Years Day Dip in the Sea
Wednesday, 7th January - Introduction to Travel Photography Workshop
Tuesday, 13th January - Hypnosis Workshop
Wednesday, 14th January - Hypnosis Workshop
Wednesday, 14th January - Introduction to Travel Photography Workshop
16th January - Murder at the Country Club
Monday, 19th January - Lecture - A Gardeners Life
Wednesday, 21st January - Introduction to Travel Photography Workshop
Wednesday, 21st January - A Taste of Life
Wednesday, 21st January - Theatre Dinner - Snakes and Ladders
Thursday, 22nd January - Theatre Dinner - Snakes and Ladders
Friday, 30th January - Murder on the Silver Screen
Wednesday, 28th January - Introduction to Travel Photography Workshop
Monday and Tuesday, 2nd and 3rd February - Garden Design and Appreciation
Wednesday, 4th February - Introduction to Travel Photography Workshop
Thursday, 5th February - Monthly Writing Circle
Saturday, 7th February - The Walk In Wardrobe
Wednesday, 11th February - Introduction to Travel Photography Workshop
Friday, 13th February - Murder on the Silver Screen
Saturday, 14th February - Valentines Dinner
Wednesday, 18th February - Introduction to Travel Photography Workshop
Wednesday, 18th February - Theatre Dinner - The Waitress
Thursday, 19th February - Creative Computer Training
Thursday, 19th February - Theatre Dinner - The Waitress
Friday, 20th February - Creative Computer Training
Tuesday, 24th February - Pancake Racing on the Beach
Wednesday, 25rd February - Introduction to Travel Photography Workshop
Thursday, 25th December - Christmas Day Dip in the Sea
Tuesday, 30th December - "Out of Africa" Fancy Dress Night
Thursday, 1st January - New Years Day Dip in the Sea
Wednesday, 7th January - Introduction to Travel Photography Workshop
Tuesday, 13th January - Hypnosis Workshop
Wednesday, 14th January - Hypnosis Workshop
Wednesday, 14th January - Introduction to Travel Photography Workshop
16th January - Murder at the Country Club
Monday, 19th January - Lecture - A Gardeners Life
Wednesday, 21st January - Introduction to Travel Photography Workshop
Wednesday, 21st January - A Taste of Life
Wednesday, 21st January - Theatre Dinner - Snakes and Ladders
Thursday, 22nd January - Theatre Dinner - Snakes and Ladders
Friday, 30th January - Murder on the Silver Screen
Wednesday, 28th January - Introduction to Travel Photography Workshop
Monday and Tuesday, 2nd and 3rd February - Garden Design and Appreciation
Wednesday, 4th February - Introduction to Travel Photography Workshop
Thursday, 5th February - Monthly Writing Circle
Saturday, 7th February - The Walk In Wardrobe
Wednesday, 11th February - Introduction to Travel Photography Workshop
Friday, 13th February - Murder on the Silver Screen
Saturday, 14th February - Valentines Dinner
Wednesday, 18th February - Introduction to Travel Photography Workshop
Wednesday, 18th February - Theatre Dinner - The Waitress
Thursday, 19th February - Creative Computer Training
Thursday, 19th February - Theatre Dinner - The Waitress
Friday, 20th February - Creative Computer Training
Tuesday, 24th February - Pancake Racing on the Beach
Wednesday, 25rd February - Introduction to Travel Photography Workshop
AFPOP Coffee Meeting
Contributed (AFPOP)
Friday, 5th December FIRST BOOK CLUB/COFFEE MEETING!
This is our first meeting to exchange books/swap books and sell books. Remember to put your name and address on any books you wish to have returned. At the same time we can meet, chat and enjoy a coffee. This was suggested by so many of you—so do help to make it popular!
Thanks! No booking necessary—just pop in.
Hotel Garbe 10.30am until 2pm
Friday, 5th December FIRST BOOK CLUB/COFFEE MEETING!
This is our first meeting to exchange books/swap books and sell books. Remember to put your name and address on any books you wish to have returned. At the same time we can meet, chat and enjoy a coffee. This was suggested by so many of you—so do help to make it popular!
Thanks! No booking necessary—just pop in.
Hotel Garbe 10.30am until 2pm
20.11.08
Theatre Dinner - 26th, 27th and 28th November
Raj Indian Restaurant
THE JEFFERIES ENGLISH THEATRE
Presents
“THE WAITRESS”
A light comedy
by
Nick Warburton
DIRECTED BY SUZANNE JEFFERIES
Wednesday 26th,Thursday 27th & Friday 28th November 2008
7.00 for 7.30 pm
Only 30,00 Euros per person
3 Course Indian Dinner with Wine and Coffee
Don’t miss it book now.
Hotel Garbe, Armação de Pêra
Tel.282 320260 Fax: 282 315087
E-Mail hotelgarbe@mail.telepac.pt Web:-www.hotel garbe.com
Presents
“THE WAITRESS”
A light comedy
by
Nick Warburton
DIRECTED BY SUZANNE JEFFERIES
Wednesday 26th,Thursday 27th & Friday 28th November 2008
7.00 for 7.30 pm
Only 30,00 Euros per person
3 Course Indian Dinner with Wine and Coffee
Don’t miss it book now.
Hotel Garbe, Armação de Pêra
Tel.282 320260 Fax: 282 315087
E-Mail hotelgarbe@mail.telepac.pt Web:-www.hotel garbe.com
Countdown to our Christmas Fair
Contributed
Carol Singers
Carols were first sung in Europe thousands of years ago but these were pagan songs sung at the Winter Solstice celebrations as people danced around stone circles. The word carol means dance or a song of praise or joy and they used to be sung during all four seasons but only the tradition of singing them at Christmas has survived. Before public carol singing became popular bands of official singers called Waits were lead by important local leaders . The name Waits originated as they only sang on Christmas Eve which was also known as Watchnight or Waitnight because of the shepherds watching their sheep when the angels appeared to them and the Christmas celebrations began
Here in the Algarve there is a group which raises money for charity and keeps fit at the same time. The Silves Keep Fitters meet every week at the gym of the Silves Football Club. The mixed group of all ages and fitness levels are put through a gentle programme of flex and stretch incorporating tai chi and yoga by Pat Hitchinson. For the past eight years they have been raising money for Castelo de Sonhos, in particular the baby starter packs for young ,single mothers and poor families . Along with other fund raising events they have formed a Christmas choir. This has grown over the past twelve years since Pat led a group of carol singers around the streets of Armação ending the evening by singing carols in front of the church. Now they are in popular demand
For only €3 per session Pat would be delighted to see new members from 1030 – 1130 each Wed morning. Getting involved with this group would be good for you and good for charity – what more could you ask for ? 91 931 8030
You can meet and hear this friendly group at the NETWORK Christmas Fayre on Dec 1st at the Hotel Garbe as they are the Carol Singers who will be heralding the arrival of Father Christmas and singing during the fayre.
Verna Kinder
Carol Singers
Carols were first sung in Europe thousands of years ago but these were pagan songs sung at the Winter Solstice celebrations as people danced around stone circles. The word carol means dance or a song of praise or joy and they used to be sung during all four seasons but only the tradition of singing them at Christmas has survived. Before public carol singing became popular bands of official singers called Waits were lead by important local leaders . The name Waits originated as they only sang on Christmas Eve which was also known as Watchnight or Waitnight because of the shepherds watching their sheep when the angels appeared to them and the Christmas celebrations began
Here in the Algarve there is a group which raises money for charity and keeps fit at the same time. The Silves Keep Fitters meet every week at the gym of the Silves Football Club. The mixed group of all ages and fitness levels are put through a gentle programme of flex and stretch incorporating tai chi and yoga by Pat Hitchinson. For the past eight years they have been raising money for Castelo de Sonhos, in particular the baby starter packs for young ,single mothers and poor families . Along with other fund raising events they have formed a Christmas choir. This has grown over the past twelve years since Pat led a group of carol singers around the streets of Armação ending the evening by singing carols in front of the church. Now they are in popular demand
For only €3 per session Pat would be delighted to see new members from 1030 – 1130 each Wed morning. Getting involved with this group would be good for you and good for charity – what more could you ask for ? 91 931 8030
You can meet and hear this friendly group at the NETWORK Christmas Fayre on Dec 1st at the Hotel Garbe as they are the Carol Singers who will be heralding the arrival of Father Christmas and singing during the fayre.
Verna Kinder
Theatre Dinner - 3rd and 4th December
Presents
A COMEDY
“Snakes and Ladders”
written by
Nicky Moran
STARRING
Nicky Moran
A reformed bag lady - Margaret Draper ( 65 years) coming to terms
with living in shelterd accommodation.
STAGE MANAGER
Midge Ridgley
on
Wednesday 3rd and Thursday 4th December 2008
7.00 for 7.30 pm
3 Course Indian Dinner
with Wine and Coffee
30,00 Euros per person
Don’t miss it book now.
Tel.282 320260 - Fax: 282 315087 - E-Mail: mail@hotelgarbe.com
19.11.08
Coming up - Hypnosis Workshop - 10th December
Have you ever wondered how hypnosis works?
Would you like to be more motivated, focused or relaxed in all you do?
As you read this will you find your curiosity growing?
Tony Westwood, International Speaker, Hypnotist and Golf Professional has combined his years of experience from the golfing world and his understanding of hypnosis to create a unique learning experience.
You can begin to think yourself better by understanding how your mind actually works.
When you buy a computer it comes with a manual in many languages to help you understand how the computer works.
The computer in your head is many, many more times powerful than any computer ever created by man and no one has ever been given a user manual for their brain.
These workshops will help you understand how to control your thinking in life by learning how your conscious and unconscious minds actually communicate.
To find out how you can attend a workshop and learn more call:
00 (351) 910 960 464 or e-mail hypnogolf@gmail.com
NEXT WORKSHOP: Hotel Garbe, Armacao de Pera
DATE: Wednesday 10th December 2008
TIME: 19:00
COST: 15 euros
16.11.08
Countdown to Christmas…
Contributed
How lovely are your brunches?
The history of the Christmas tree goes back to 1810 in Denmark and it was Queen Victoria who brought it into British homes in 1840.
In the northern European countries, the pine tree was the kind which dropped the needles very quickly, therefore the tradition was to bring in the tree on December 24 and decorate it with candles, garlands, candies and paper flowers.
Nowadays, the Christmas tree is a different, much better type and most do not drop their needles, especially the Nordmann and Nobilis firs, which are now known as real Christmas trees.
The history of real Christmas trees in the Algarve goes back not so far, but theordinary pine, which grows wild in the region, has been used as Christmas tree for many years.
In the early nineties, we decided that we needed a real, beautiful Christmas tree and wehad the opportunity of importing 1,000 trees from Denmark. However, we then had the hard job of selling them as the Portuguese were not familiar with this kind of tree and foreigners did not expect to see it here. Nevertheless it was the start.
So now you know that, every year, you can have your very own beautiful Christmas tree, all the way from Denmark, and you do not need to decorate it with paper flowers as Lis from ESDAV Landscaping also has a variety of handmade or Danish-imported Christmas decorations.
See them for yourselves, along with other exciting gifts, at the Network Christmas Fayre on December 1 from 11am to 5pm at the Hotel Garbe in Armação de Pêra.
How lovely are your brunches?
The history of the Christmas tree goes back to 1810 in Denmark and it was Queen Victoria who brought it into British homes in 1840.
In the northern European countries, the pine tree was the kind which dropped the needles very quickly, therefore the tradition was to bring in the tree on December 24 and decorate it with candles, garlands, candies and paper flowers.
Nowadays, the Christmas tree is a different, much better type and most do not drop their needles, especially the Nordmann and Nobilis firs, which are now known as real Christmas trees.
The history of real Christmas trees in the Algarve goes back not so far, but theordinary pine, which grows wild in the region, has been used as Christmas tree for many years.
In the early nineties, we decided that we needed a real, beautiful Christmas tree and wehad the opportunity of importing 1,000 trees from Denmark. However, we then had the hard job of selling them as the Portuguese were not familiar with this kind of tree and foreigners did not expect to see it here. Nevertheless it was the start.
So now you know that, every year, you can have your very own beautiful Christmas tree, all the way from Denmark, and you do not need to decorate it with paper flowers as Lis from ESDAV Landscaping also has a variety of handmade or Danish-imported Christmas decorations.
See them for yourselves, along with other exciting gifts, at the Network Christmas Fayre on December 1 from 11am to 5pm at the Hotel Garbe in Armação de Pêra.
15.11.08
Winter Workshop - An Introduction to Travel Photography
Weekly – WednesdaysDecember, 2008 – March, 2009
First one on 3rd December
This 4-hour course starts at 9am at the Hotel Garbe.
Have you ever wished you knew more about your camera so that you could take better photographs? .This course is designed to help you develop your camera skills and techniques to enable you to create images which capture the real mood and atmosphere of your travel destinations.
After a short introductory talk, we will visit a variety of local locations where you will be guided through different approaches to photographing selected subjects and scenes. At each location the emphasis will be on composition and exposure and we’ll explore areas such as directional light, colour, tone texture and pattern, among many other topics. With a maximum of only six participants, you will be assured lots of individual attention and there will be ample opportunity for questions and answers. We’ll also provide you with a set of course notes so that your new camera skills can be applied in any location. Your course tutor is John McKinlay, one of the UK’s leading landscape and travel photographers. John has more than 17 years experience of teaching photography and he runs photographic courses and tours in Scotland, Portugal, Cyprus and North Africa. Bring along your camera, whether it’s film or digital and enjoy a fresh approach to your photography.
Price per person 40 euros
6.11.08
Christmas Treats - Traditions to Tummies
ContributedThe pull of much of Christmas relates to its history - our personal stories of the wonder of our Christmases past and the hundreds of years of tradition packed into the morsels which make up this special holiday.
Food carries much of this sensory significance. Think of the spicy smell of a freshly baked gingerbread, popped in your mouth. Savour the first spoon of Christmas pudding.
The pudding we now associate with Christmas dates to the 15th century. It was a first course containing meat (beef or mutton), onions, root vegetables and dried fruit. As more dried fruit became available in the 16th century, these were added and the meat and vegetables cut back until only suet and sometimes carrot are the remains of this more savoury pudding. By 1670, this pudding was specifically associated with Christmas.
Holly, and a sprig of arbutus, topped the pudding to keep away witches. The insertion of charms and coins could date from Stuart or Victorian England. Only the coin remains of the six objects traditionally mixed into the pudding for luck: 2 rings for love, a sixpence for prosperity, 1 trouser button for the bachelor, 1 thimble for the spinster and 1 little pig for the glutton.
It is not recorded who made the first cake with fruit, honey, nuts and alcohol, but it dates from before the birth of Christ. Initially a bread with fruit, rich fruit cakes as we know them originate in the 18th century and were made to reduce spoilage and for their travelling qualities.
Queen Elizabeth I is credited with the first gingerbread men. She favoured important visitors with likenesses of themselves stamped in this spicy dough. Initially the shapes were beautifully carved wooden moulds and the designs were impressed rather than cut.
SWEET MARILYN has made a delicious reputation supplying cakes and puddings to the Algarve including yummy Christmas puddings with brandy butter, moist fruit cakes and crisp gingerbread men. You can contact her at 282 458 391 or treat yourself at the Women's Network Christmas Fair, being held as usual on Dec. 1 from 11 am to 5 pm at the Hotel Garbe Armação de Pêra. There will also be many other wonderful stalls can inspire your Christmas decorating and gift giving.
1.11.08
What's On - November, 2008
BAR BOA VISTA
Saturday, 1st November - SANDRA & JORGE- Music for Dancing
Sunday, 2nd November - PRESUMED INNOCENT – Dancers
Monday, 3rd November - NUNO - Resident Organist
Tuesday, 4th November - ARTE VIVA - Music for dancing
Wednesday, 5th November - JOÃO CARACOL- Music for Dancing
Thursday, 6th November - NUNO - Resident Organist
Friday, 7th November - NUNO - Resident Organist
Saturday, 8th November - SANDRA & JORGE- Music for Dancing-
Sunday, 9th November- CARLOS PONTES - Music for dancing
Monday, 10th November- FOLKLORE DANCERS – 9.30pm
Tuesday, 11th November - NUNO - Resident Organist
Wednesday, 12th November - JOÃO CARACOL- Music for Dancing,
Thursday, 13th November- ILZE- Singer
Friday, 14th November - XICO - Guitar Player
Saturday, 15th November - SANDRA & JORGE- Music for Dancing
Sunday, 16th November - PRESUMED INNOCENT - Dancers
Monday, 17th November - NUNO - Resident Organist
Tuesday, 18th November - ARTE VIVA - Music for dancing
Wednesday, 19th November - JOÃO CARACOL- Music for Dancing
Thursday, 20th November - NUNO - Resident Organist
Friday, 21st November - NUNO - Resident Organist
Saturday, 22nd November- SANDRA & JORGE- Music for Dancing-
Sunday, 23rd November- CARLOS PONTES - Music for dancing
Monday, 24TH November - FOLKLORE DANCERS – 9.30pm
Tuesday, 25th November-NUNO- Resident Organist
Wednesday, 26th November - JOÃO CARACOL - Music for dancing
Thursday, 27th November - ILZE- Singer
Friday, 28th November - XICO - Guitar Player
Saturday, 29th November - SANDRA & JORGE- Music for Dancing
Sunday, 30th November - PRESUMED INNOCENT – Dancers
BAR “BOA VISTA”- HAPPY HOUR EVERY DAY FROM 6.00 TO 8.00PM
THE FACILITIES AND ENTERTAINMENT FEATURED MAY CHANGE WITHOUT NOTICE
29.10.08
Hotel Garbe welcomes Lady Golfers
The Hotel Garbe was delighted to welcome The Bracken Ghyll Ladies Golf Society from Yorkshire to the Hotel earlier this month for their Annual Golf Event. The Hotel Garbe Golf Desk as usual did their utmost to ensure that all the Lady Golfers had a superb stay in the Algarve.Club President, Lesley Sayers said the whole group thoroughly enjoyed the golf courses, the Algarve sunshine and the hotel. She promised that the event will be held once again in the Algarve next October.
28.10.08
PORTUGUESE SUPERBIKE GRAND PRIX
October 31 to November 2Portimão
The World Superbike Championship is a mammoth, worldwide event, that constitutes one of the fastest-growing sports events and one of the top three international motor sport products, hot on the heels of Formula 1 and MotoGP. In 2007, the Superbike World Championship was hosted across 13 circuits in 10 countries. This championship is a truly global event, held in the world’s most prestigious circuits and involving key motorcycle and consumer goods markets at a global scale.
Taking place at the new of the Algarve International Autodrome near Portimao.
26.10.08
Christmas Fair - 1st December
Contributed
Countdown to the Network Christmas Fair with our Charity of the Year – Bom Samaritano
This year, as ever, Network hosts the Christmas Fair on 1st December at Hotel Garbe, Armaçāo de Pera. This is a fabulous opportunity for people to display and sell products and services, and for the public to buy those special treats and presents with a difference. It is also an opportunity for Network to raise money for our charity of the year, Bom Samaritano Children’s Home. We begin our countdown to Christmas this year with a reminder of why our chosen charity needs our – and your – help.
Bom Samaritano is a children’s home providing care and support for 36 children aged between 3 and 18 years. Nestling in a quiet suburb of Alvor, the first thing you notice about it is its atmosphere of warmth and calm. The Director of the home, Dra Maragarida Cardoso is simply charming – personable, vibrant, warm, yet with a sense of dedication and determination about her. Dra Cardoso leads 15 paid staff in their quest to help children who have been neglected, orphaned, or abused to enjoy as much opportunity as anyone else in life, and to have as much of a ‘family’ life as possible. They work closely to try to reintegrate into families where possible, and to try to offer fostering or adoption possibilities where it is not. Meanwhile, they provide a safe home for these children, with a suitable attitude combining discipline with care. Older and younger children share bedrooms to support each other, all make their own beds and clean their own rooms, all have individualised touches , toys and comforters.
The second thing you notice is that there are many signs of ‘making do’ on the material side of things. Much of the furniture in the play rooms, the visitors room, is basic and cheap. A plant grows through the children’s rest/play/television room. While the home is littered with signs of joy and acitivity – paintings, the bird mural in the office – you can see that it is run on a shoestring.
When Network approached Bom Samaritano to ask what they would like to spend money on, the answer was clear – a minibus for transporting the children. Currently, one of the buses does not meet new safety criteria introduced by the Portuguese government, which creates a grave problem for the home. They are looking to raise €40,000 to buy a new vehicle, and we at Network aim to raise 2,000 of these through our Christmas Fayre this year.
There are lots of other things that you can do to support Bom Samaritano – they always need money for shoes, or brand new shoes bought in specific sizes: they are looking for paint and materials for upgrading the house: furniture, electronic equipment – the children here are ordinary children who need help, who have learned to appreciate all that they get, and who would like to be able to use computers, listen to music, and be up to date, just like any other child.
You will hear more about Bom Samaritano over the coming months, and for now we would just like to say that Network is delighted to be associated with them as we build up to the Network Christmas Fayre. So do come along and support us, book a stall or simply come along and join in the raffle and tombola – some fabulous prizes to be had – and help to make a child’s life a little more comfortable, a little more ‘normal’, and to support the staff who do such fantastic and worthwhile work.
If you would like to know more about Bom Samaritano, and how you can help, please contact bomsamaritano@sapo.pt or phone 282 459 201.
To know more about Network, or to book a stall at our Fayre, please contact Paulette Fouché on info@networkalgarve.org or phone 915 584 667
Countdown to the Network Christmas Fair with our Charity of the Year – Bom Samaritano
This year, as ever, Network hosts the Christmas Fair on 1st December at Hotel Garbe, Armaçāo de Pera. This is a fabulous opportunity for people to display and sell products and services, and for the public to buy those special treats and presents with a difference. It is also an opportunity for Network to raise money for our charity of the year, Bom Samaritano Children’s Home. We begin our countdown to Christmas this year with a reminder of why our chosen charity needs our – and your – help.
Bom Samaritano is a children’s home providing care and support for 36 children aged between 3 and 18 years. Nestling in a quiet suburb of Alvor, the first thing you notice about it is its atmosphere of warmth and calm. The Director of the home, Dra Maragarida Cardoso is simply charming – personable, vibrant, warm, yet with a sense of dedication and determination about her. Dra Cardoso leads 15 paid staff in their quest to help children who have been neglected, orphaned, or abused to enjoy as much opportunity as anyone else in life, and to have as much of a ‘family’ life as possible. They work closely to try to reintegrate into families where possible, and to try to offer fostering or adoption possibilities where it is not. Meanwhile, they provide a safe home for these children, with a suitable attitude combining discipline with care. Older and younger children share bedrooms to support each other, all make their own beds and clean their own rooms, all have individualised touches , toys and comforters.
The second thing you notice is that there are many signs of ‘making do’ on the material side of things. Much of the furniture in the play rooms, the visitors room, is basic and cheap. A plant grows through the children’s rest/play/television room. While the home is littered with signs of joy and acitivity – paintings, the bird mural in the office – you can see that it is run on a shoestring.
When Network approached Bom Samaritano to ask what they would like to spend money on, the answer was clear – a minibus for transporting the children. Currently, one of the buses does not meet new safety criteria introduced by the Portuguese government, which creates a grave problem for the home. They are looking to raise €40,000 to buy a new vehicle, and we at Network aim to raise 2,000 of these through our Christmas Fayre this year.
There are lots of other things that you can do to support Bom Samaritano – they always need money for shoes, or brand new shoes bought in specific sizes: they are looking for paint and materials for upgrading the house: furniture, electronic equipment – the children here are ordinary children who need help, who have learned to appreciate all that they get, and who would like to be able to use computers, listen to music, and be up to date, just like any other child.
You will hear more about Bom Samaritano over the coming months, and for now we would just like to say that Network is delighted to be associated with them as we build up to the Network Christmas Fayre. So do come along and support us, book a stall or simply come along and join in the raffle and tombola – some fabulous prizes to be had – and help to make a child’s life a little more comfortable, a little more ‘normal’, and to support the staff who do such fantastic and worthwhile work.
If you would like to know more about Bom Samaritano, and how you can help, please contact bomsamaritano@sapo.pt or phone 282 459 201.
To know more about Network, or to book a stall at our Fayre, please contact Paulette Fouché on info@networkalgarve.org or phone 915 584 667
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