Coming Up - Paderne Medieval Festival

1 to 3 January, 2010 with exhibitions, stalls and traditional medieval music throughout the village of Paderne. A trip back to the 14th century - the different cultures, beliefs, religions are all brought to life with tournaments, musical performances and parades.

Programme

1st January:

14.30 – Opening

16.00 – Official Tournament
23.00 – Market closes
.

2nd January:

12.00 – Opening

23.00 – Market closes
.

3rd January:

12.00 – Opening
16.00 – Historic parade
23.00 – Market closes
.

Organised by the Town Hall in Albufeira Tel.: 289 599 500 www.cm-albufeira.pt

Calendar of Events - 2010

Events in the Hotel

Friday, 12th February, 2010 - An Introduction to Travel Photography
Friday, 12th February - Bike Tour
Saturday, 13th February - Valentines Night Dinner Dance
Sunday, 14th February - Carnival Fancy Dress Party in Bar Boa Vista
Tuesday, 16th February - Pancake Racing on the Beach
Tuesday, 16th February - Carnival Fancy Dress Party in Bar Boa Vista
Wednesday, 17th February - Royal British Legion Monthly Lunch
Friday, 19th February, 2010 - An Introduction to Travel Photography
Friday, 19th February - Bike Tour
Friday, 19th February, 2010 - 'Oops we forgot Valentines' Dinner Quiz Night
Wednesday, 24th February - Theatre Dinner - Raj Indian Restaurant
Thursday, 25th February - Theatre Dinner - Raj Indian Restaurant
Friday, 26th February, 2010 - An Introduction to Travel Photography
Friday, 26th February- Bike Tour

Monday, 1st March - Charity Quiz

Monday, 8th March - International Women's Day Dinner

Friday, 19th March - Father's Day Dinner
Saturday, 20th March - Old Time Musical Evening
Monday, 22nd March - Marketing Workshop with the Marketing Magician
Tuesday, 23rd March - Marketing Workshop with the Marketing Magician

Easter Sunday, 4th April - Charity Easter Egg Hunt and Easter Bonnet Parade

Tuesday, 6th April - Algarve Ladies Lunch

Sunday, 2nd May - Mother's Day Lunch

Saturday, 25th December - Swim for Shoes - Dip in the Sea for Charity
Saturday, 25th December - Christmas Day Gala Dinner
Friday, 31st December - New Years Eve Gala Dinner and Dance
Saturday, 1st January - Swim for Shoes - Dip in the Sea for Charity

Events Nearby
Sunday, 14th February - Carnival Parade - Armação de Pêra
Tuesday, 16th February - Carnival Parade - Armação de Pêra

5th and 6th June - Algarve International Fair - Lagoa
23rd June - Traditional Dancing through the streets of Armação de Pêra
24th - 26th June - Caldeirada (Typical Fish Dish) Festival - Armação de Pêra
7th - 15th August - Medieval Fair - Silves

Sunday, 8th August - Procession in Honour of Our Lady of the Fisherman

20th - 29th August - Fatacil - Lagoa

16th - 19th September - Lit. Algarve (International Literature Festival)

Sunday, 19th September - Procession in Honour of Nossa Senhora dos Aflitos

21st - 29th August, 2009 - Fatacil in Lagoa

August White Night - Loule

Treasure Hunt Success

An afternoon of bright sunshine greeted the 14 teams who took part in the first Boxing Day Treasure Hunt from the Hotel Garbe in Armacao de Pera. After a brisk walk around the town and a small excursion to the beach the contestants returned to mince pies and drinks in the hotel bar.

Cap’n Whitebeard happily shared his treasure with the winners (Mary King and Mardie Cunningham) and also presented a mystery bottle to the team in second place before announcing that the event had raised nearly 200 Euros for Castelo de Sonhos in Silves.



More photos can be found at http://picasaweb.google.com/HotelGarbe/BoxingDay2009TreasureHunt#

Swimming in the Rain.........

Congratulations and thanks to all those who participated in the Swim for Shoes on Christmas Day.



Despite not very good weather conditions, more than fifty Father Christmas came along to take part in the Swim and help to raise more than 650 Euros to buy new shoes for children in an Algarve Orphanage.

This year it was a swim with a difference - due to the enormous waves of the Atlantic Ocean on Christmas morning, it was decided that the dip should be in the Hotel Garbes' outdoor swimming pool, which was much warmer than the sea. However, there were still a few, who followed up the pool dip with one in the sea.

From Christmas Day, 2009 - Swim for Shoes

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.

A big thank you to everyone who participated.

In order to raise more funds - there is another "Swim for Shoes" on 1st January at 11.00am - just the way to recover from the festivities of New Years Eve - welcome in 2010 by paddling or swimming in the Atlantic Ocean - what an achievement !

Please join us - Fancy Dress Optional.

More photos at http://picasaweb.google.pt/HotelGarbe

Christmas Quiz Winner

Congratulations to Mrs. Stephenson who is the winner of a weekend for two at the Hotel Garbe.

Please see below the answers to our 2009 Christmas Quiz.

1) Holiday Inn

2) 9

3) Ghost of Christmas past, present and future and Marley's ghost

4) 34th Street

5) Capricorn

6) 3 - Dasher, Donder and Dancer

7) Nutcracker

8) 1700's

9) Christmas tree

10) 1895

11) The early Church banned mistletoe, so holly was substituted

12) Turkey

13) Santa Claus is coming to town

14) Wenceslas, Ohio

15) 16 points

16) Come all ye faithful

17) Stone of Scone

18) Please to put a penny in the old man's hat

19) Noel

20) Perfume

Newsletter

Our latest newsletter is now available - please click here

2009 Christmas Quiz - Win a weekend for two

1) From which original film did the song "White Christmas" come?

2) According to the song "12 days of Christmas", how many ladies were dancing?

3) Name the ghosts that appear to Scrooge.

4) Finish off the title of of this seasonal film "Miracle on ?th Street.

5) What is your star sign if you were born on Christmas day?

6) How many reindeer start with the letter "D" and can you name them?

7) What is the name of the most famous Christmas ballet?

8) Most Christmas carols today were first composed in the 1300, 1400, 1500, 1600, 1700 or 1800's?

9) Traditionally, German children are not allowed to see what before Christmas Eve?

10) Electric Christmas tree lights were first introduced in 1776, 1835, 1895, or 1925?

11) What significance is holly in celebrating Christmas?

12) The real Saint Nicholas lived in Turkey, canada, Denmark or Germany?

13)Work out the famous Christmas song from this anagram "To snog a clown is a must cant I"

14) Which of the following places is NOT a real US city or town - Wenceslas,Ohio, Noel, Missouri, St. Nicholas, Florida, or Santa Claus, Georgia?

15) In scrabble, what is the face value number of points of the word "Christmas"?

16) From which Christmas carol do the following lyrics come " Come and behold him, born the King of Angels"?

17)What was stolen from Westminster Abbey on Christmas day in 1950?

18) What is the next line - "Christmas is a-coming, the goose is getting fat........."?

19) What is Christmas called in France?

20) According to the bible, the three wise men brought gold, frankincense and myrrh. What is myrrh?


Send your answers by e-mail to info@hotelgarbe.com before 3.00pm on 26th December, 2009 - 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.

Theatre Dinner - 20th and 21st January, 2010

Raj Indian Restaurant

Presents

A comedy

“ANGELS FEATHERS ”

written by Nicky Moran

Starring

Nicky Moran

Thomas Hartmann

Gladys Roper, a 75 year old widow, lives alone with her tabby cat, Bobby.A little forgetful, she often finds herself in unfamiliar surroundings butshe has come to accept these lost moments without distress orapprehension and on the opening of the play, we find her inone of these moments…..

Stage Manager - Midge Ridgley

Wednesday 20th and Thursday 21st January 2010 7.00 for 7.30 pm

3 Course Indian Dinner with Wine and Coffee

€ 30,00 per person
Don’t miss it book now.

Tel: 282 320260 Fax: 282 315087 e-mail - info@hotelgarbe.com

Nicky Moran and Thomas Hartmann

Hotel Garbe – 8365-909 Armação de Pêra – Algarve - Portugal

December and January Special Rate

€22 per person per person per night - valid until 31st January.

Relax and unwind for a few days
Twin or Double landview room from only €22 per person per night inclusive of full buffet breakfast and afternoon tea and biscuits

Blog Index

We have been asked if we can index some of the posts on this blog - so they are easily available at all times:-

Hotel Services
Golf Holidays
Breakfast at the Hotel
Dinner menu - tonight
Junior Suites
Wedding Receptions
Raj Indian Restaurant
Television Channels
Afternoon Tea and Biscuits
Our Lunchtime Salad Menu
Summer Lunches
Barbeque Nights
Boa Vista Sandwich Menu

Useful Information
Directions from Faro Airport
Car Hire

Christmas and New Year
Christmas Programme
New Years Eve Programme
Christmas Day Swim for Shoes
Swim for Shoes Video
Boxing Day Treasure Hunt
Christmas in Portugal
Company Christmas Parties

What's On - Hotel Garbe
Bridge Club
Exercise at the Hotel Garbe
Folklore Dancing
Introduction to Travel Photography
Bike Tour Every Friday
Quiz Nights

Reviews and Comments from our Guests
In our mail box this morning
From our golf desk
Review - Perfect
Great Hotel in Great Location
"Great for relaxing beach holiday"
"excellent hotel cannot wait to stay there again"

Places to Visit
Days Out - Lagos Zoo
Krazyworld
Algarve Shopping
Zoomarine
Days Out - Costume Museum - Sao Brás de Alportel
Algarve Karting
Days Out - Aqualand Water Park

Armacao de Pera
Fisherman's Beach - Armacao de Pera
Armacao de Pera Market
Nativity Scene - Armacao de Pera

The beach
A perfect day
View from Hotel Garbe at 8.30pm
The view this morning
The beach this morning


THE WAY IT WAS
THE WAY IT WAS - 1962
Nearly Forty years on

You can also search the Blog by using the search facility at the top of the page.

Comments and Suggestions pleaseIn order to improve this blog - we would be very pleased to hear from you if there is any information you feel we should add to the blog.

We also accept "contributions" - eg. something you specifically enjoy about our Hotel, a "don't miss" activity, or just general information about Portugal - all of which will be very useful to our future guests. These will be marked as a "contribution" and carry your name.Please send comments, suggestions and "contributions" to info@hotelgarbe.com

Bank Holidays in Portugal - 2010

Friday, 1st January - New Year Day
Tuesday, 16th February - Carnival
Friday, 2nd April - Good Friday
Sunday, 4th April - Easter Day
Sunday, 25th April - Dia da Liberdade
Saturday, 1st May - Dia do Trabalhador
Thursday, 3rd June - Corpus Cristi
Thursday, 10th June - Dia de Portugal
Sunday, 15th August - Assunção de Nª Senhora
Tuesday, 5th October - Implementação da Republica
Monday, 1st November - All Saints Day
Wednesday, 1st December - Restauração da Independência
Wednesday, 8th December - Imaculada Conceição
Saturday, 25th December - Christmas Day

90th Birthday Celebrations

We thought you might enjoy this picture of Stan Williamson in our Bar Boa Vista celebrating his 90th birthday yesterday.

Network Christmas Fair at the Hotel Garbe

Contributed

This is always the Algarve Christmas fair with everything for everybody, and was very well organised. That makes a big difference to those of us who had stands, so many thanks to all concerned.

There was a range of stands offering all the cards and gift-wrap you could ask, and all sorts of foodstuffs for the season, together with a great choice for presents and stocking-fillers. Of course there were also books and jewellery, wines and pies, meaning almost everybody left with something, and the raffles & tombola were well supported by all.

From my own point of view, having a travelling shop, I am used to setting up and packing up, so I appreciate the organisation put into this fair each year. We were all in the main dining-room this year, which I'm sure was easier for the hotel, and left the bar free for those who needed a break!

I loved having the opportunity to put on a ' Fashion Flash ', and had 12 ladies happy to wander round showing off some of my party outfits, and would like to add my thanks to Chris Winstanley, who seemed to have been dragooned into a sideline as MC!

Mention of Chris leads me nicely on to thank those members of The Algarveans who came in costume or otherwise to promote February's pantomime - ' A Boy and Some Beans'.

Happy Christmas to all,

Alison
Collections

Christmas Fair Film

Our thanks to Algarve Channel 5 for filming the Network Spirit of Christmas Fair, which can be seen at http://www.algarvechannel5.net/ click on the NEW CLIPS button and it's #1 on the list.

OR the direct link http://www.algarvechannel5.net/clips/evcr038.html

What's On - December, 2009

“Boa Vista” Bar

Happy Hour - 20% - Every Day From 6.00 To 9.00pm Daily Entertainment – 9.00pm

Tuesday, 1st December - Arte Viva – Music For Dancing
Wednesday, 2nd December - João Caracol- Music For Dancing
Saturday, 5th December - Sandra & Jorge -Music For Dancing
Tuesday, 8th December – Ilze – Singer
Wednesday, 9th December - João Caracol-Music For Dancing
Friday, 11th December – Xico – Guitar Player
Saturday, 12th December-Sandra & Jorge- Music For Dancing
Sunday, 13th December - Carlos Pontes – Music For Dancing
Tuesday, 15th December - Arte Viva - Music For Dancing
Wednesday,16thdecember - João Caracol-Music For Dancing
Thursday, 17th December - Nuno - Resident Organist
Friday, 18th December – Nuno - Resident Organist
Saturday, 19th December - Sandra & Jorge- Music For Dancing
Monday, 21st December - Nuno - Resident Organist
Tuesday, 22nd December – Nuno - Resident Organist
Wednesday, 23rd December- João Caracol- Music For Dancing
Thursday , 24th December – Ilze - Singer
Friday, 25th December – Nig Ericson – Music For Dancing
Saturday, 26th December-Sandra & Jorge-Music For Dancing
Sunday, 27th December - Carlos Pontes – Music For Dancing
Monday, 28th December – Nuno - Resident Organist
Tuesday, 29th December - Arte Viva - Music For Dancing
Wednesday, 30th December - Nig Ericson - Music For Dancing
Thursday, 31st December – All Night Dancing To Live Music

The facilities and entertainment featured may change without notice.

New Year's Eve Gala Dinner

Thursday, 31st December, 2010 - 20.30Hrs

Creme de Lagosta Perfumada com Pernod
Cream of lobster with Pernod
****
Saladas à Escolha
Selection of Salads
****
Espelho de Frango Grelhado com“Piri-Piri”
Cold grilled chicken with piri piri
****
Espelho de Perú Assado
Cold roasted breast of turkey
****
Espelho de Mariscos
Seafood platter
****
Espelho de Pasteis Mistos
Traditional Portuguese rissoles
****
Espelho de Leitão Assado à Bairrada
Traditional roast suckling pig
****
Espelho de Salmão Fumado
Smoked salmon
****
Espelho de Perna de Porco Assada
Roast leg of pork
****
Lombinhos de Tamboril crocantes com Ameijoas e Molho de Cenoura
Fillet of monkfish with clams and carrot sauce
****
Tranches de Salmão Grelhados com Molho de Alcaparras
Grilled salmon with caper sauce
****
Supremos de Cherne com Frutos Secos do Algarve
Suprême of sea bass with dried fruits from the Algarve
****
Lascas de Frango na Chapa com Ananás dos Açores
Grilled ribbons of chicken breast with pineapple from the “Açores”
****
Costeletas de Borrego sobre cama de Migas Crocantes com Bacon
Lamb cutlets served on a bed of crunchy fried bread with
onions, garlic and bacon
****
Lombinhos de Porco Preto com Alecrim
Fillets of black pork with rosemary
****
Medalhões de Novilho Grelhados
Grilled medallions of veal
****
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

****
Música ao Vivo e Grupo de Dança
Dancing to Live Music and Live Dance Show

€:150,00 12 % Iva Incl

Rehearsal for next week

We thought you might enjoy this photo of the Silves Keep Carol Singers rehearsing for the Christmas Fair next week.

Don't miss them - Network Spirit of Christmas Fair - 1st December, 2009 - Hotel Garbe, Armação de Pêra.

Spirit of Christmas Cocktail

New for this year! First day - 1st December, 2009.

Available in the Boa Vista Bar.

For only € 4.50 this delicious combination of Kir Royale, Crème Cassis and Espumante is a wonderful way to get you into the Christmas mood and fully enjoy the festive season.

Available from 1st - 31st December, 2009 - Bar Boa Vista, Hotel Garbe

"All you want for Christmas"

"All you want for Christmas" will be at the NETWORK Spirit of Christmas Fair taking place on Bank Holiday Tuesday, 1st December at the Hotel Garbe in Armação de Pêra from 1100 till 1700.

This year in an exciting new development the Algarve’s biggest and best Christmas Fair will be held in the main Por do Sol Restaurant, which is extremely spacious and light, has spectacular views of the beach and access to the terraces.

The fair at the Hotel Garbe has grown to be one of the most popular in the region, hundreds of people come from far and wide.

Something for everyone in the family as Mums and Dads love the opportunity to do their Christmas Shopping, children flock to see Father Christmas and the seasonal carol singing will creates a traditional atmosphere that everyone appreciates.

Gifts Galore, as well as all those special Christmassy traditional treats will also be on sale,:- homemade Christmas Puddings, candles, boxes of Christmas cards, handmade tree decorations, crackers, novelty stocking fillers to name but a few.

Don't miss this opportunity to do all your Christmas shopping under one roof.

Porches Pottery, one of the Fair regulars, have a range especially for Christmas making it very easy to chose the perfect gift. Beautiful handcrafted and hand painted Cruet sets, soap dishes, candle holders to name but a few, and don’t forgot to check out their unique Christmas tree decorations. Or visit the Lemon Tree stand for a festive range of soaps and beauty care. Movison are bring giftware, and James Wilding will be there with his much sought after Jewellery.

Stay for lunch – the Raj Indian Restaurant will have its famous Indian buffet running from 12.30pm onwards. Or enjoy a turkey sandwich and a mince pie in the Hotel Bar.

Don’t miss Father Christmas and his Magic Elf arriving in his "sleigh" to open the Fair at 11.00am. The Silves Keep Fitters Carol Singers will welcome Santa at 11.00am and then sing many of the traditional Carols that we all know and love at Christmas time.in the Bar Boa Vista at 11.30am and 3.30pm.

A Grand Raffle and Tombola will raise funds for the NETWORK Charity of 2009, the Bom Samaritano in Alvor

Street theatre, Carol singing, Fashion Flashes and Dancing Displays will make up the entertainment programme of the day.

Entry to the Fair is free

NETWORK SPIRIT OF CHRISTMAS FAIR, Hotel Garbe, Armação de Pêra.
Tuesday, 1st December, 2009 11.00am to 5.00pm

For more information please contact Verna Kinder on 282 449395 or Vicki Good on 282 320260

Photo: Father Christmas helping Porches Pottery get ready for Christmas.

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!

If you would like to see some photographs of the Christmas Day Swim, 2008 please click here go to 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.

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

For more information please send e-mail to info@hotelgarbe.com

Some of the Christmas, 2008 swimmers

Gifts for him and her – give an experience this Christmas

It is not always easy to choose the right present at Christmas, it can be time consuming, tiring and expensive.

Why not give an experience - everyone loves a voucher - especially when it is to treat themselves.......

At the Network Spirit of Christmas Fair taking place at the Hotel Garbe, Armação de Pêra on 1st December you be able to choose from a large number of "treat yourself" presents.

A photography course from Portugal Photography, a beauty treatment from Lara Costa, a dance lesson from Strictly Come Dancing, a supply of smoked salmon from Fumeiro do Algarve, a Bowen Treatment from Lindsey Hanson, dinner for two in the Raj Restaurant are just a few of the experiences you will be able to buy at the Fair.

Vouchers will come with special designed cards for you to write in your own personal greeting.

Visit the Network Spirit of Christmas Fair on 1st December at the Hotel Garbe and treat your family and friends to an experience this Christmas.

Entry to the Spirit of Christmas Fair is free.

For more information please contact Verna Kinder e-mail pvkinder@mail.telepac.pt

Network Spirit of Christmas Fair, Hotel Garbe, Armação de Pêra.Tuesday, 1st December, 2009 11.00am to 5.00pm

Royal British Legion Christmas Lunch

Wednesday, 16th December, 2009

Smoked Salmon
Roast Turkey and all the trimmings, seasonal vegetables
Christmas Pudding and Brandy Butter
Coffee and Mince pies.
Water Red and White wine
Hats and Crackers

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 their Secretary David Mossman on 282332665 or e-mail dacemoss@sapo.pt

Christmas Day Gala Dinner

Friday, 25th December 2009
19.30 hrs
Jantar de Gala- Dia de Natal
Sexta–Feira, 25 de Dezembro 2009

BUFETE ««»» BUFFET

Creme de Agriões com Salmão
Cream of watercress with Salmon

****
Lombo de Bacalhau gratinado com Broa de Milho
Traditional cod baked in the oven with corn bread topping

****
Tranches de Cherne com Trio de Cogumelos
Suprêmes of seabass with mushrooms
****
Peru Recheado de Murcela e Salsichas com Castanhas Caramelizadas de Mel de Silves
Roasted succulent turkey stuffed with sausage and served with caramelized chestnuts and
honey from ” Silves”
****
Bifinhos de Novilho +com Queijo Roquefort
Fillet of veal with Roquefort cheese
****
Fussilli Gratinado com Tomate e Pesto
Oven baked fussilli with tomato & pesto sauce
****
Espelho de Presunto
Traditional Portuguese smoked ham
****
Mesa de Queijos
A selection of the finest Portuguese and international cheeses
****
Pudim de Natal
Traditional plum pudding served with brandy and orange sauce
****
Sobremesas Tradicionais de Natal
A choice Christmas desserts from Portugal
****
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

€:50,00
12 % Iva Incl.

Coming up - Christmas Fair

Start the Christmas season in style with your family and friends this year….

NETWORK, the Association for Business and Working Women in Portugal will be holding its famous SPIRIT OF CHRISTMAS FAIR at the Hotel Garbe in Armação de Pêra on Tuesday, 1st December. The fair at the Hotel Garbe has grown to be one of the most popular in the region, hundreds of people come from far and wide.

Don’t miss Father Christmas and his Magic Elf arriving to open the Fair at 11.00am.

Something for everyone in the family as Mums and Dads will love the opportunity to do their Christmas Shopping, children will flock to see Father Christmas and the seasonal carol singing will create a traditional atmosphere that everyone will appreciate.

Not only will there be gifts for him and gifts for her, all those special Christmassy traditional treats will also be on sale,:- homemade Christmas Puddings, candles, boxes of Christmas cards, handmade tree decorations, crackers, novelty stocking fillers to name but a few.

Stay for lunch – the Raj Indian Restaurant will have its famous Indian buffet running from 12.30pm onwards. Or enjoy a turkey sandwich and a mince pie in the Hotel Bar.

Street theatre, Carol singing, Fashion Flashes and Dancing Displays will make up the entertainment programme of the day.

The Silves Keep Fitters Carol Singers will welcome Santa at 11.00am and then sing many of the traditional Carols that we all know and love at Christmas time.in the Bar Boa Vista at 11.30am and 3.30pm

A Grand Raffle and a Win Every Time Tombola will raise funds for the NETWORK Charity of 2009, the Bom Samaritano in Alvor

No Christmas Fair would be complete without a visit to see Santa. Santa and his Magic Elf will be at the Fair from 11.00am – 5.00pm to give everyone the possibility to whisper their Christmas wishes to the man in the red suit with the big white beard. Follow the Penguin Trail in the Hotel to find him.

Entry to the Fair is free

NETWORK SPIRIT OF CHRISTMAS FAIR, Hotel Garbe, Armação de Pêra.
Tuesday, 1st December, 2009 11.00am to 5.00pm

Hotel Garbe on the Be Hip Show

We are delighted that the beach of Armação de Pêra and the Spirit of Christmas Fair that is taking place at the Hotel Garbe on 1st December, 2009 are featured on this months Be Hip Show - please see http://www.hipalgarve.net/.

Contributed - Charity Quiz Night

In the Hotel Garbe, Armação de Pera
Monday 4th January 2010

QUIZ NIGHT
Winners receive €25
Sonae Group Gift Card

With fund raising raffle
sponsored by
Diamond Cleaning Services
Home Car or Boat its sparkling!
Tlm 919 305 588

proceeds to
Castelo de Sonhos

Starts 8 pm
€2.50 per person
Teams of 2 – 6 people welcome
Bar and Snacks Available

Tlm 919 266 770 or call in to book your table

From our Golf Desk

From: @orange.net
Sent: sexta-feira, 13 de Novembro de 2009 21:18
To: golfdesk@hotelgarbe.comSubject:

RE: ALGARVE GOLF TRIP

Hi there

Just a quick note to express our thanks and appreciation for all your help and assistance before and during our break.I'm sure that without all your help and expertise our break would not have been the huge success that it was. This mirrors the views of all 18 guests in the party.Once again many thanks.

John and Jackie

Christmas fashion can sparkle even through the economic gloom!

Contributed

Alison Slater of 'Collections'

People have been asking me which are the colours for this winter season, and I am delighted to be able to say that they are much brighter than in some years. We all like more colour here than in the rather grey UK, and this year there are some really gorgeous bright purples and blues, as well as greens and a range of browns. When it comes to Christmas, there is a wide choice of the usual reds, golds and silvers, as well as other metallic finishes, and a lot of sparkle!

Times are hard financially for us all, and although I buy most of my clothes through the UK, unfortunately I don't really benefit from the weak Pound, as the international currency for cloth & clothing manufacture is.......US dollars! ( Perhaps I should be in oil instead!) Having said that, I am lucky to have built up a great relationship with my many suppliers, and have hunted down some good deals.

When it comes to Christmas parties, and just dressing up a bit for the season, we can keep the cost down by limiting the basics and adding some glitter and colour. You probably have a nice pair of black trousers or skirt ( if not, you know where to look! ), and can make a real impact with a bright but classy top. While it can be much cooler indoors here, there are lovely jumpers, both light-weight and a bit heavier, as well as some gorgeous cardigans – not a bit like our Grannies used to wear!

I hope to see you at the Network Spirit of Christmas Fair taking place on 1st December, at the Hotel Garbe in Armação de Pêra where I will be showing all the fashion you might need for the season, and where you can find almost everything else you may be looking for in the run-up to Christmas, from cards & crackers to presents for all the family

Entry to the Spirit of Christmas Fair is free

For more information please contact Verna Kinder e-mail pvkinder@mail.telepac.pt

Network Spirit of Christmas Fair, Hotel Garbe, Armação de Pêra.Tuesday, 1st December, 2009 11.00am to 5.00pm

November 25th 2009 - ‘Speed Networking’

Contributed

LADIES NETWORK

Invites members and their guests to this exciting concept, still new to the Algarve.

Here is an unrivalled opportunity to efficiently increase business contacts and generate new business opportunities!

Who will be there? NETWORK members and guests interested in growing their business, seeking new customers, investors or business partners, or passing on referrals.

How does it work? Individual briefing sessions lasting around 5 minutes with other
like-minded professionals. Establish rapport, share contacts

What do you do? Prepare 20 word concise and effective ‘Martini’ speech. Have goals, know what you want to achieve. Think about what YOU have to offer to others. Bring business cards and interested friends not yet members!

When and Where?

Hotel Garbe, Armação de Pera
Wednesday November 25th
Gather at 8.30 am to start for 9 am finish 10.30 am.

Cost: Members €6 Guests €8.

Includes, coffee or tea, pastry and water

Spaces ARE limited!!

Please book no later than end of day Friday November 20th

Contact Lindsey (Western Vice President)
Tel: 936 371 448 or Email: Bowentherapy.Lindsey@gmail.com

"A perfect day"

The view from the Hotel Garbe at 8.00am this morning

Boxing Day Treasure Hunt

New for this year

Why not come along on Boxing Day and help Captain Whitebeard of the good ship 'Garbe' retrieve his treasure.

Earn yourself a share by being the best at following the map, solving the clues and completing the tasks as you make your way around .

You get to test your brains, get some fresh sea air and walk off some of that Christmas Day Excess!!

Starting at the Hotel Garbe at 2.00pm on 26th December, 2009

5.00 Euros per person - all proceeds to Castelo de Sonhos

Book you place now - 282 320260 or info@hotelgarbe.com

Coming up - 24th November, 2009

Contributed

Bicentenary Celebrations of the French Invasions of Iberia

Battle Dinner 3: From Talavera to Torres Vedras
Tuesday 24 November 18:00
Talk by Peter Kingdon Booker followed by dinner at the Hotel Garbe, Armação de Pêra.
Tickets €20
(please book by 21 November)

After his court martial and return to Portugal in April 1809, Sir Arthur Wellesley took up his winning ways again and summarily ejected the French from Porto. Seeking to profit from Spanish hostility to the French, with Cabinet permission he then advanced into Spain and joined forces with General Cuesta. Their relationship was not harmonious, but Wellesley managed to hold their alliance together while they fought the battle of Talavera on 27-28 July, 1809. The allies won this victory by the skin of their teeth but both British and Spanish had to retire in haste before larger French armies. Ennobled as Viscount Wellington as a result of this victory, the British commander used the year of respite from French attacks to construct at Torres Vedras one of the cheapest and most effective defence systems anywhere in the world. What was his secret? During the winter of 1809 - 1810, he was nearly defeated; where was his most damaging opposition? How did he survive?

Find out on 24 November how the future ´Iron Duke´ continued to contribute his genius to the defeat of Napoleon and consider again how he earned his considerable reputation. This is the third in Peter Booker´s series of presentations on the Peninsular Wars, in this Bicentennial of Britain´s participation in the Peninsular Wars here in Iberia.

Information/reservations : lynne.booker@iol.pt/281 971 567.

Calendar of Events - November - February

Events in the Hotel

Friday, 25th December - Swim for Shoes - Dip in the Sea for Charity

Friday, 25th December - Christmas Day Gala Dinner

Saturday, 26th December - Boxing Day Treasure Hunt

Wednesday, 30th December - Wild West Fancy Dress Dinner Dance

Thursday, 31st December - New Years Eve Gala Dinner and Dance

Friday, 1st January - Swim for Shoes - Dip in the Sea for Charity

Monday, 4th January - Charity Quiz

Friday, 8th January - Bike Tour

Friday, 8th January, 2010 - An Introduction to Travel Photography

Friday, 15th January - Bike Tour

Friday, 15th January, 2010 - An Introduction to Travel Photography

Wednesday, 20th January - Theatre Dinner

Thursday, 21st January - Theatre Dinner

Friday, 22nd January - Bike Tour

Friday, 22nd January, 2010 - An Introduction to Travel Photography

Friday, 29th January - Bike Tour

Friday, 29th January, 2010 - An Introduction to Travel Photography
Monday, 1st February - Charity Quiz

Friday, 5th February, 2010 - An Introduction to Travel Photography

Friday, 5th February - Bike Tour

Friday, 12th February, 2010 - An Introduction to Travel Photography

Friday, 12th February - Bike Tour

Saturday, 13th February - Valentines Night Dinner Dance

Tuesday, 16th February - Pancake Racing on the Beach

Friday, 19th February, 2010 - 'Oops we forgot Valentines' Quiz Night

Friday, 19th February, 2010 - An Introduction to Travel Photography

Friday, 19th February - Bike Tour

Friday, 26th February, 2010 - An Introduction to Travel Photography

Friday, 26th February- Bike Tour

Monday, 1st March - Charity Quiz

Father Christmas confirmed for Network Spirit of Christmas Fair

Last month Father Christmas and his Magic Elf met with the Organisers of the Network Spirit of Christmas Fair.

And today Father Christmas has today confirmed his attendance at Network Spirit of Christmas Fair which is taking place at the Hotel Garbe in Armação de Pêra on 1st December.

Santa and his Magic Elf will arrive to open the Fair at 11.00am, and stay until it closes at 5.00pm to give everyone the possibility to whisper their Christmas wishes to the man in the red suit with the big white beard.

Don't miss this oppoortunity - He will be giving the proceeds of his visit to Castelos dos Sonhos in Silves. No Christmas Fair is complete without a visit to Santa

Follow the Penguin Trail in the Hotel to find him.

Also confirmed for the Fair are another old favourite - the Keep Fit Carol Singers who will welcome Father Christmas at 11.00am and then sing many of the traditional Carols that we all know and love at Christmas time.in the Bar Boa Vista at 11.30am and 3.30pm.

The 2009 Network Spirit of Christmas Fair is set to be the best ever.

Don't miss it - make a note of the date now.

Entry to the Fair is free

For more information please contact Verna Kinder e-mail pvkinder@mail.telepac.pt

Network Spirit of Christmas Fair, Hotel Garbe, Armação de Pêra.
Tuesday, 1st December, 2009 11.00am to 5.00pm

Photo: Father Christmas and his Magic Elf enjoying the spectacular beach in front of the Hotel Garbe when they were here last month!!!!

November Newsletter

Our November Newsletter is now available. Please click here

In our mail box this morning

We have just returned from a wonderful week at the Hotel Garbe. We can't seem to stay away, and as usual the service was first class. A special mention to all staff at reception and in the Por do Sol restaurant.

Best wishes to you all for Christmas and 2010.

Kindest Regards,

Peter

What's On - Bar Boa Vista - November, 2009

Monday, 2nd November - Nuno - Resident Organist
Tuesday, 3rd November - Arte Viva - Music For Dancing
Wednesday, 4th November - João Caracol - Music For Dancing
Thursday, 5th November - Nuno - Resident Organist
Friday, 6th November - Nuno - Resident Organist
Saturday, 7th November -Sandra & Jorge- Music For Dancing
Sunday, 8th November -Carlos Pontes – Music For Dancing
Monday, 9th November -Folk Dancing–Folk Dancers- 9.30pm
Tuesday, 10th November - The Old Tyme Songsters- 8.30pm
Wednesday,11th November-João Caracol- Music For Dancing
Thursday,12th November -- Nuno - Resident Organist
Friday, 13th November - Xico – Guitar Player
Saturday, 14th November - Sandra & Jorge -Music For Dancing
Monday, 16th November - Nuno - Resident Organist
Tuesday, 17th November - Arte Viva - Music For Dancing
Wednesday, 18th November -João Caracol- Music For Dancing
Thursday, 19th November - Nuno - Resident Organist
Friday, 20th November - Nuno - Resident Organist
Saturday, 21st November- Sandra & Jorge- Music For Dancing
Sunday, 22nd November -Carlos Pontes - Music For Dancing
Monday, 23rd November- Folk Dancing-Folk Dancers–9.30.Pm
Tuesday, 24th November – Ilze - Singer
Wednesday, 25th November- João Caracol- Music For Dancing
Thursday, 26th November – Nuno-Resident Organist
Friday, 27th November - Xico – Guitar Player
Saturday, 28th November- Sandra & Jorge- Music For Dancing
Monday, 30th November - Nuno- Resident Organist

Bar “Boa Vista - Happy Hour 20% Discount - Every Day From 6.00 To 9.00pm

Weekly
Mondays - 9.30hrs Pilates - Advance Class – Chelb Room
Mondays –11.00am - Pilates – Beginners Class – Chelb Room – Please Pre-Book At Reception
Wednesday Evenings - 6.00pm - Silver Exhibition - Reception Area
Fridays – 9.30am - Pilates - Advance Class - Chelb Room
Fridays – 11.00am - Pilates - Beginners Class - Chelb Room - Please Pre-Book At Reception
Thursday Evenings - 6.00pm – Pearl Exhibition - Reception Area
Sunday Evenings - 6.00pm - Silver Exhibition - Reception Area


Monthly
Monthly - First Thursday - 10.30pm - 12.30pm Writing Circle

The Facilities And Entertainment Featured May Change Without Notice

View from Hotel Garbe at 8.30am

Writing Circle - Thursday, 5th November

Jenny Grainer, a professional journalist who runs Creative Writing Courses is leading a Writing Circle at the Hotel Garbe. On Thursday, 5th November from 10.30am-12.30pm. All welcome.

For more information please contact Jenny Grainer on 282 381201.

Christmas Fair Favourites return

Contributed

The organisers of the Network Spirit of Christmas Fair are delighted that lots of the "Fair Favourites" have already booked their spaces at the 2009 Fair which is taking place on 1st December, 2009 at the Hotel Garbe in Armação de Pêra.

Book the date in your diary now. All you need for Christmas under one roof.

Sweet Marilyn is starting to bake the puddings, Liz Jensen has already ordered the Danish Christmas Trees. Jouk, Alison and Fiona will have the latest fashion ready for Festive parties. Rainbow Cards and Buyology will be bringing the latest in Wrapping paper, cards, and crackers, not forgetting those fun stocking fillers. A selection of books will be available from Griffin Bookshop http://www.griffinbookshop.com/ - they already have their Christmas book lists - phone them for your copy so you can plan your purchases for the Fair.

The number of first time bookings has also exceeded the expectations of the organisers. The 2009 Network Spirit of Christmas Fair is set to be the best ever.

Don't miss it - make a note of the date now
For more information please contact Verna Kinder e-mail pvkinder@mail.telepac.pt

Photo: Father Christmas enjoying a Sweet Marilyn Christmas Pudding

Marketing Magician ......... Success in the Sun

Contributed

Portuguese Businesses Work with The Marketing Magician

Businesses from across the length and breadth of the Algarve and as far away as Lisbon attended the Marketing Magician’s latest seminars designed to help Portuguese businesses to grow their businesses.

Marketing Magician, Stefan Drew, was back in Portugal at the invitation of the Hotel Garbe in Armação de Pêra, with more seminars and workshops designed to help Portuguese businesses to not only survive the downturn but to prosper. Sessions included a Website Workshop that revealed the secrets of how to get on Page One of Google with a demonstration of how this can be achieved at nil cost in just a few days. Other seminars included Advertising Secrets, PR & Media Secrets and the ever popular topic of How to Quadruple Business Turnover and Profits.

Stefan Drew commented, “Everyone thinks marketing is difficult, expensive and rarely works; but it needn’t be like this. I was able to demonstrate how simple it is to beat millions of other webpages onto Page One of Google without any expenditure whatsoever. The BBC might refer to me as The Marketing Magician but this isn’t magic… it is quite simple and anyone that makes the effort to get greast at marketing can manage it very quickly.”

He continued, “The people that attended the workshops are exceptional. They recognise that to survive and thrive in business you have to get great at marketing. These people will do well, not least because their competitors haven’t grapsed this simple fact.”

David Rowatt, director of Appreciating Portugal said, “Stefan has the ability to break down the perceived complex barriers of internet marketing and provide a user friendly solution that produces results. Thoroughly enjoyable and great nutrition for the brain.“

Fiona Lang of Portugal Property Collection commented, “These seminars have really opened my eyes up to how I can market my company in the best way without wasting time, energy and most importantly money. As a brand new business I need to make my mark quickly and Stefan’s advice has given me plenty of ways to do this.”

Sean Whitttamore of Destination Algarve said, ‘Our property management & rentals business has been growing steadily over the last 5 years - and with very little in the way of marketing; however, we are now ready to take the business to the next level and Stefan's tips, tricks, & techniques have opened our eyes to the possibilities that effective marketing can offer to small businesses such as ours and we are sure that putting even just a few of his excellent techniques into practise will help us grow more rapidly well into the future.’

Carina de Sousa, marketing coordinator at IRG International Realty Group Portugal commented, “Thank you very much for these fantastic workshops about PR & Media and Website, they were very interesting and I will certainly use your valuable marketing ideas to improve our press releases and website. I found these seminars very enjoyable and informative, looking forward to the next marketing seminars.“

Carol Spires from Winkworths said, “Marketing property and assisting clients’ looking for their ‘home in the sun’ in the Algarve, Portugal is particular challenging in the current economic climate. So in a very competitive market I am very aware that it is essential to keep one step ahead whilst keeping costs to a minimum. I have just attended 2 marketing seminars with Stefan Drew, here on the Algarve which re-enforced how critical it is to get the marketing right & even more important gave me ideas on how to be more proactive and effective without blowing a hole in the marketing budget. I will certainly be recommending his seminars & magic tips to colleagues within Winkworth Real Estate and beyond – but not our competitors!!

Philippa Taylor, Director Premier FX said “Once again an excellent seminar from Stefan who gave me very practical advice that I can use straight away for my business. I look forward to more next year”

The Marketing Magician and the Hotel Garbe are planning more Marketing Magician seminars and workshops and are encouraging businesses to discuss the topics they would like covered in the future.

Royal British Legion Lunch - October, 2009

Photos of the Royal British Legion lunch which took place last 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 their Secretary David Mossman on 282332665 or e-mail dacemoss@sapo.pt

More photos can be seen here

Network Spirit of Christmas Fair - 1st December, 2009

Network, the Association for Business and Working Women in Portugal will be once again holding its famous Spirit of Christmas Fair at the Hotel Garbe in Armação de Pêra.

On Tuesday, 1st December, there will more than 50 stands selling a wide selection of crafts, Christmas gifts, clothing, home furnishings, books, beauty therapy and much, much more.

Father Christmas will arrive at 11.00am to open the Fair.

Entry is free

Don't miss it - Make a note in your diary.

Calling all Golfers

The festive season is fast approaching ..........
so why not consider the perfect Christmas treat!

December and January €220 euros per person*
5 nights bed and breakfast in a twin room with sea view
2 rounds of golf on your choice of two courses: Salgados, Pinta, Gramacho, Alto Club, Silves, Morgado and Alamos.
Dinner in The Raj at Garbe on one evening
Welcome drink
Traditional Port and mineral water in room on arrival

.

Contact Helen or Jane at : golfdesk@hotelgarbe.com
or visit our site www.golfatgarbe.com

*Subject to availability

Why not spend Christmas at the Hotel Garbe this year?

Why not spend Christmas at the Hotel Garbe this year?

For this special time of year, the four day programme creates a lovely festive atmosphere for you to share with other guests.

From mulled wine, mince pies and carol singing on the first evening to the "New" Treasure Hunt on Boxing Day - Christmas at the Hotel Garbe will be one to remember.

Buck Fizz for breakfast on Christmas Day is followed by the now famous Charity Swim for Shoes in the sea, in front of the Hotel. Swim, paddle or watch - the choice is yours. Father Christmas joins us for our Christmas Day Gala Dinner served in the Por do Sol Restaurant.

New for 2009 is the Boxing Day Treasure Hunt - which will take you on an exciting journey through Armação de Pêra exploring the history and hidden treasures of the town. Find out where the pirates treasure is
buried !

The four night programme is just € 398 per person. To book or for more information please call 282 320260 or e-mail info@hotelgarbe.com

Theatre Dinner - 25th and 26th November

Raj at Garbe

THE JEFFERIES ENGLISH THEATRE
Presents
“A HELPING HAND “
A light comedy by Nick Warburton
with
Suzanne Jefferies and Victor Graham

When a retired "Gentleman" offers to help out at the local church
as a “'elf and safety officer” the scene is set for a series ofunexpected
and highly amusing events. Victor Graham is at his best in this role with
Suzanne Jefferies left shocked, amused and exasperated in turns !

Wednesday and Thursday
25th and 26th November 2009
7.00 for 7.30 pm
3 Course Indian Dinner with Wine and Coffee
Only € 30.00 per person

Don’t miss it book now.
Tel: 282 320260 Fax: 282 315087info@hotelgarbe.com - http://www.hotelgarbe.com/

HOTEL GARBE – 8365-909 Armação de Pêra - Algarve. Portugal

The view this morning

Another perfect day for the beach - temperature today is 27 c - 80.6 f.

Wine Tasting Evening - 24th October

In association with Get Real Weekly - www.getrealweekly.com/

Wine tasting... With a difference

Introducing you to South Africa’s finest wines courtesy of Prime Wine

An excellent opportunity to relax at the beachside hotel in Armação de Pêra and partake of some particularly fine wines from such wineries as Graham Beck, Kanonkop, Meerlust, Mulderbosch and Kanu.

Saturday 24/10
Arrive at Hotel Garbe from 2.00pm
Enjoy the facilities throughout the afternoon
7pm – Wine tasting
8pm – Three course dinner
9pm – An evening with Pinky Steed

Sunday 25/10
Breakfast from 8.00am until 10.30am
Check out at midday

At a very attractive price
ONLY
€42 per person sharing double room

Single supplement on request

For more information and bookings call +351 282 320 260 or e-mail info@hotelgarbe.com

Bike Tour - Every Friday

Contributed

Discover more of the Algarve

Explore the hidden delights of the Algarve countryside with an Activity Algarve guided bike tour. The tours suit all ages and fitness and levels. More challenging routes are available on request.

Every Friday from the Hotel Garbe at 9.30am. Tour lasts approximately 3 hours.

Booking essential

Adults: €45
Includes hire of bike and helmet

To book please contact:-
Paul Beesley
Activity Algarve
Mobile ( +351 ) 913 226 954
Email paul.beesley@sapo.ptweb
www.activityalgarve.com

Riders must be in good health and able to cycle competently on a variety of surfaces and conditions.