Dear Reader,

Happy New Year to you! Here is your weekly news overview…

The Algarve welcomes 202 intern doctors

The Algarve Local Health Unit (ULSALG) began the year 2025 by welcoming 202 intern doctors, who chose the Algarve health units to carry out their medical internship in various areas of medicine.

At the welcome ceremony, which took place on January 3rd at Quinta do Sobral, in Castro Marim, the chairman of the board of directors, Tiago Botelho, left the new interns with a challenge: “demand, challenge, invite, summon, question your tutors, confront them, because that is where progress and knowledge come from, contact with different ideas and the demand to do better”.

The chairman of the board of directors also assured that he was available to monitor continuous improvement, highlighting that in “the Algarve we do the best that is done in the country and in the entire world”, pointing to the two new surgical robots from the ULS of the Algarve – one for the Hospital of Faro and the other for the Hospital of Portimão – as a commitment to technology at the service of health in the Algarve region.

Francisco Amaral, Mayor of Castro Marim, the municipality hosting this reception, referred to the importance of joint work between local authorities and health entities and the need for a stronger focus on preventive medicine in the country, ending with an invitation to interns to stay and develop their professional activity in the region.

Ana Paula Silva and executive director Ana Marreiros also attended the ceremony, alongside the director of pharmaceutical services, Brigitte Viegas.

Also present were the vice-president of the Algarve Regional Coordination and Development Commission (CCDR), Elsa Cordeiro, the head of the Regional Commission for General and Family Medicine Internship, Helena Boavida, and the representative of the Portuguese Medical Association, Eunice Capelo.

132 interns will be completing general training, in order to deepen their knowledge in different clinical contexts.

The remaining intern doctors, those completing specialized training, have been placed in units in the region in the following specialties: General and Family Medicine (26), Public Health (1), Anesthesiology (2), Cardiology (1), General Surgery (2), Gastroenterology (2), Gynecology/Obstetrics (3), Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (5), Intensive Medicine (2), Internal Medicine (7), Nephrology (1), Neurosurgery (1), Neurology (1), Neuroradiology (1), Oncology (2), Otorhinolaryngology (1), Clinical Pathology (1), Pediatrics (2), Pulmonology (2), Psychiatry (3), Radiology (2), Rheumatology (1) and Urology (1).

According to the Algarve Local Health Unit, the “number of intern doctors in the Algarve has been gradually increasing since 2023”.

GNR seize 93 kilos of hashish in just 2 days

The Coastal and Border Control Unit (UCCF) and the Faro GNR Territorial Command, seized 93.6 kilos of hashish as part of intensive patrols along the Algarve coast during the last two days.

According to a statement from the GNR, these patrols were carried out predominantly because of the worsening weather conditions, with the aim of detecting possible landslides along the coast, but resulted in the seizure of drugs.

On Monday, during a patrol on Rebolos/Burgau beach, in Vila do Bispo, soldiers from the Portimão Coastal Control sub-detachment identified a bulky object close to the surf, which was a bundle of burlap with a narcotic product inside.

On the same day, the Portimão territorial detachment of the same security force received a report regarding the presence of another bundle, on Mareta beach in Sagres. At the scene, the military confirmed that the bundle contained narcotics, and was accompanied by a jerrycan containing 25 litres of fuel.

On Tuesday, several packages were found near the surf on Vale de Lapa/Lagoa beach, by soldiers from the Portimão Coastal Control sub-detachment, which also contained a narcotic product.

Lagoa approves the largest ever budget, for 2025

The Lagoa Municipal Assembly have approved the largest budget in the municipality's history, for 2025, totalling more than 66 million euros, with Education, Culture, Social Action and Sports as its priority areas for improvement.

This budget for 2025, the highest ever, “is in line with the strategy defined for the current term by the permanent executive, and is based on two objectives, the construction of housing and the replacement of the mains water network pipes, as well as six commitments, Education, Culture, Social Action, Sport, the care of Public Space and Municipal Works”, explains the Municipality of Lagoa in a statement.

The budget was approved by majority, with 18 votes in favour (15 from the PS and 3 from the Lagoa Primeiro Movement), 2 abstentions (BE and CDU) and 5 votes against (4 from the PSD and 1 from CHEGA).

Priorities include replacing the mains water supply pipes, building new homes, requalifying the housing stock and modernizing the area, aligning Lagoa with the challenges of the future. The proposal also reinforces areas already recognized as regional and national examples, while maintaining the focus on proximity to the community and the education of new generations.

The proposal also guarantees a strong investment in Education, Culture, Social Action and Sports, consolidating Lagoa as an example of social cohesion and sustainable development.

“Approving the largest budget the Municipality has ever had brings us a huge responsibility. However, we, the Permanent Executive, have already shown that we are up to the challenge and will continue with our guiding line and our rigor in investing public money. The approved Budget projects Lagoa for the coming years, equipping this magnificent territory with essential infrastructures for its development”, stated Luís Encarnação, Mayor of Lagoa.

Portugal's stats as we begin 2025

 Statistics in certain sectors in Portugal have risen over the festive period, according to various reports by the Lusa national news agency.

The value of Christmas shopping between 1 and 24 December rose by 15 %, over 2023. MB WAY (Multibanco) Christmas shopping rose by over 40%.

The PSP police arrested 349 people for road offenses between Christmas and the New Year. 230 of the arrests were for drink-driving.

A record twenty deaths occurred on Portuguese roads during the “Operation Christmas – New Year 2024/2025” conducted by the GNR police.

Statistics just released show that overnight stays in tourist accommodation rose by 4.1% from January to November, to over 76 million. The increases for residents was 2.5% and for non-residents 4.8%.

The year-on-year inflation rate stood at 3.0% in December, 0.5 percentage points more than November, according to an estimate just released by Statistics Portugal.

A new study shows that 70% of people in Portugal have expressed concerns about processing personal data through artificial intelligence (AI) systems, used by financial institutions. This puts Portugal’s wariness well above the European Union average, which stands at 52%.

The Independent Doctor’s Union and the government have just reached an agreement that provides for an average salary increase of 10% by 2027. 

The legal age to retire is to rise by just two months, to 66 and nine months, according to a new government order based on estimated average life expectancy and data revealed by Statistics Portugal (INE).

Entrance fees to national museums have just gone up by between two and seven euros.

Written by Len Port  

Increase in HMPV cases concerns the World Health Organization

People suffering from the respiratory virus HMPV are filling hospitals, setting off alarm bells for the World Health Organization.

HMPV (Human Metapneumovirus) is a respiratory virus belonging to the Paramyxoviridae family, first identified in 2001. This virus is responsible for respiratory infections, mainly affecting children, the elderly and people with weakened immune systems. Like the COVID-19 virus, HMPV is transmitted mainly through respiratory droplets, from coughing or sneezing, or through contact with contaminated surfaces.

According to a Reuters report, cases of HMPV, as well as other pathogens such as rhinovirus, have recently been detected. The incidence of HMPV has been increasing, especially among people under the age of 14 in northern provinces of China. Despite this, Chinese authorities and the World Health Organization (WHO) have not yet declared a state of emergency over the situation.

The virus has already spread significantly to other countries, including Indonesia.

According to Pplware , HMPV is considered a seasonal virus, with a higher incidence during winter and early spring. Clinically, its manifestations are similar to those of the respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). Symptoms can range from mild to severe, and include fever, cough, nasal congestion, and shortness of breath. In more severe cases, the virus can lead to complications such as pneumonia or bronchiolitis.

In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, HMPV may pose a significant threat to public health, particularly due to its ability to cause severe respiratory infections, particularly for the most vulnerable populations. Surveillance and prevention measures remain essential to control the spread of this virus, which, despite not having generated emergency alarms to date, is already affecting a significant number of people in various parts of the world.

‍OTHER NEWS YOU MAY HAVE MISSED:

Police in Portimão arrest four drug traffickers with almost 2000 doses of cocaine

Vilamoura: million-euro robbery at luxury home

Skiing could become available in Lisbon, Porto and even the Algarve

‍More news next week!

Ed

‍LATEST FEATURES

Winter visitors to the Algarve

One of most globally endangered bird species has been tracked undertaking an epic journey from England to the Algarve. The birds – Curlews - are the largest European wading species, typically found in estuaries and moorlands.

Currency Market Update - 9th January 2025

Pound Sterling has lost ground by over 1% against the majority of currencies after it emerged yesterday that Government debt and borrowing costs have risen to their highest levels since 1998. This has seen bonds rise to similar levels of the infamous Lizz Truss budget and has sent markets tumbling.

Are You Dying to Say Something?

As things to say just before you breathe your last, it is difficult to think of a more appropriate valediction than Bing Crosby's when he died on a golf course: "That was a great game of golf, fellas."  His doctor had advised him to play only 9 holes, the doc obviously wasn't a fan of lengthy tee parties.  

Hiking in Monchique: Discover the Winter Beauty of the Algarve and Enjoy the Mountain Restaurants

Monchique, located in the heart of the Algarve, is one of the most beautiful and peaceful places in southern Portugal. While the coastal region is known for its sun, sea and sand, Monchique offers an unforgettable experience for hikers and nature lovers during the winter months.

New Chaplain of St Vincent’s Chaplaincy - Jan 11th 2025

The Congregations of St. Luke’s Church, Palhagueira, and Igreja da Misericórdia de Boliqueime are delighted to announce the Service for the Licensing and Installation of The Reverend Carla Vicêncio Prior, as the new Chaplain of St Vincent’s Chaplaincy (Central and East).

‍PROPERTY NEWS

Carvoeiro: spacious 1 bedroom apartment with communal pool & parking

This spacious 1 Bedroom apartment for sale in Carvoeiro, is close to the beach and amenities and benefits from a communal pool and private parking.

Beautiful Renovated House with 5 bedrooms + Studio, Mexilhoeira Grande

This 5 bedroom detached house, located in a highly sought after location in the heart of the Algarve, is close to public transport, schools, green areas, parks and beautiful beaches.

Easiest Countries to Buy Property as a Foreigner

When looking at the easiest countries to buy property as a foreigner, the choice is much more important than the country. Investing abroad is exciting, but all buyers should approach the purchase with due diligence.

RE/MAX Diamond celebrates the opening of a new shop in Lagos and 16 years of success in the property market

RE/MAX Diamond is pleased to announce the inauguration of its new shop in Lagos, which will take place on 9th January 2025 at 16:30. This event marks not only the physical expansion of the agency, but also the celebration of 16 years of solid presence in the Algarve property market and the end of the best year for turnover in its history. 

For Sale: 2 Bedroom Sea View Apartment, Lagos

This beautiful 2 bedroom apartment with stunning sea views is located just a few minutes' walk from Meia Praia beach and Marina in Lagos!

Luxury Algarve Villa with Pool & Stunning Gardens - Alamos, Guia

This refurbished, luxury villa with heated pool features three bedrooms plus self contained studio annex, all surrounded by a large plot of mature gardens in a peaceful location.

‍COMMUNITY NEWS

UK Expats Flocking to Portugal: Join the Moving to Portugal Show & Seminars in London on April 3, 2025

The number of Brits relocating to Portugal continues to grow, with over 47,409 Britons now living in the country, according to AIMA. This figure represents the fourth-largest group of foreign residents, following Brazilians, Angolans, and Cabo Verdeans.

Best year ever for Christmas Shoeboxes for the elderly!

This Christmas marked the 20th year the Silves based family charity Castelo de Sonhos (CdeS) has been delivering shoeboxes filled with Christmas goodies and warm clothing to elderly folk in and around the Silves area. 

Vilamoura International School raises 12,500 euros for charitable causes

Promoting humanistic values is one of the cornerstones of Vilamoura International School’s (CIV) educational project. At a time when many families face significant financial difficulties, students, staff, and families came together and managed to raise 12,500€.

Lagos' first New Year's Dive in is a huge success!

For the first time ever, Lagos hosted its inaugural New Year’s Dive, organized by Algarve Tips NL and Local Lagos. While the tradition of New Year’s dives is popular throughout the Algarve, Lagos had never before held one.

Kickstarting the New Year with Wellness and Flavour - January 2025 Events at Figs on the Funcho

Join us this January at Figs on the Funcho, to embrace wellness, creativity, and flavour!

AHA Concert featuring Varoujan Bartikian and Irene Ainstein - Jan 12th

Our first concert of the New Year features our old friend Varoujan Bartikian on the cello, and Irene Ainstein at the piano, on Sunday 12th January, 2025.