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Meet Steve from Sunseeker
Steve Handy from Sunseeker Portugal
Steve moved over to Portugal with Sunseeker as it makes a lot of sense for this international boat builder to have a presence down here in the Algarve. I got to chat to him about how it all started for Sunseeker in the Algarve and what life is like for Steve in Europe's favourite holiday destination. Listen along!
Show notes
Steve has been here for three years and relates the story of how Sunseeker came to be in Vilamoura.
He was selling a boat to a client on the marina and the client was hesitating as there was no representation in Portugal. He suggested it to the Sunseeker Group and they did it in 2014.
Hunting for an office, hiring staff and having high standards in the Algarve business environment. Steve mentions how to adapt to the working environment down here.
Choosing a location to move the business to: https://goo.gl/maps/VnVFuhnaYWL2 (Vilamoura )and then https://goo.gl/maps/k4haiKTvJHz (Boliqueime).
That pub in Boliqueime is called https://goo.gl/maps/wKXBPt6Peh72 (Pub 37).
We discuss finding long term rentals and how tough it is. We have a lovely lady in our https://www.facebook.com/groups/algarveaddicts/ (Algarve Addicts Facebook group) who has a business helping people find long term rentals.
The Algarve from a boat owners perspective and naturally the weather plays a big role (as any seagoing person should know :) ).
6-8 restaurants run boat tender services:
https://goo.gl/maps/2abUDoQytHR2 (Estamine Restaurant)
https://goo.gl/maps/jT6KVJtgybC2 (Restaurant A Sardinha) at Praia Arrifes near Albufeira.
Gibraltar isn't far away, Lagos is 2 hours away from Vilamoura, Faro is a fantastic destination to cruise in the Ria Formosa.
Steve mentions how much fun you can have on a boat as a floating platform and he mentions a https://seabob.com/en/ (Seabob) (a type of underwater mini jet ski).
https://www.instagram.com/p/BQQ77JFDCHe/
Check out the Seabob! That might be quite fun for those cave visits AND surfing!
The Guadiana River for cruising and we talk about Vila Real Santo Anonio and the proximity of Spain.
Can you just drop anchor wherever you want?
Motorbiking in the Algarve and off-roading buggies. If you'd like to do the same thing get in touch with Maverick Tours and Vista Experience.
Great motor cycling road between São Brás de Alportel and Tavira - EN270.
Steves recommendations:
Beach: https://goo.gl/maps/LGyfhwS7UCm (Praia do Carvalho) and the West Coast.
Restaurants: https://goo.gl/maps/A3Kojb6T2xm (The Shack) and https://goo.gl/maps/nW1uVAi2A1x (Pure) in Quinta do Lago.
You can find Steve online through https://www.sunseeker.pt/en-GB/ (Sunseeker Portugal) or https://www.axoparlondongroup.com/ (axoparlondongroup.com) -
Alexandra Vanstalle is a mother of four kids, husband of one and runs unbelievable distances along rural tracks. Her latest adventure is to train for a 111km long trail run… Listen to her story:
Show notes
Alex was born in Oeiras, close to Lisbon, studied in Lisbon and worked at a Mexican restaurant, before setting off for Mexico and heading back to the Algarve!
Holidays in her youth were spent in https://goo.gl/maps/6oRWa8NwSSR2 (Manta Rota) in the Algarve. Teenage party times!
We talk about https://goo.gl/maps/2r5TjaE4MxH2 (Praia Verde) and https://goo.gl/maps/bPxaxqFiuws (Pézinhos na Areia).
Her first few months living in the Algarve just outside Loulé near Boliqueime.
Trail running and how she became addicted to it and the free group https://www.facebook.com/corridas6f/ (Corridas a Sexta Feira)
She joined ATR (https://www.facebook.com/AlgarveTrailRunning/ (Algarve Trail Running)) and helped with the http://utrp.pt/ (Rocha da Pena race) and ended up entering the 50km run which is held in August in 40ºC temperatures.
Alex trains 50, 60, 70 kms a week before a big race.
We discuss the http://alut.pt/ (ALUT) which stands for the Algarviana Ultra Trail which is a 300km race from one end of the Algarve to the other (Alcoutim to Sagres).
If you’ve just arrived in the Algarve and want to do some great trail runs, Alex suggests heading for https://goo.gl/maps/ACeWkFSkcxG2 (Querença), https://goo.gl/maps/VA7LHcUUjmx (Salir )or https://goo.gl/maps/eAtHoi2yX8H2 (Falesia )or even https://goo.gl/maps/LPcHm7VDVcF2 (Monchique)! We talk about the https://goo.gl/maps/NkubQtB2ACu (Cerro do São Miguel) above Moncarrapacho.
Alex’s Algarve recommendations:
Loulé – schools, hospitals, restaurants and safe to live in.
Beaches: Ilha Deserta and Rhttps://goo.gl/maps/eAJK3agY6CH2 (estaurant Estamine)
The west coast (Chttps://goo.gl/maps/HyRtA9uV6E42 (osta Vicentina)).
You can find Alex online on Facebook or at http://byvanstalle.com/ (http://byvanstalle.com/) where she does image consulting. She helps people build self confidence through clothing and body language among other things. -
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I interviewed Maria in the new https://www.tivolihotels.com/pt/tivoli-marina-vilamoura/meetings (Centro de Congressos do Algarve) and we managed to sneak into an empty conference room as the sound was GREAT in there. Her life is really varied taking in a lot of projects like online tourism startups, the Lagos Food Fest, other big events, food tours, the Rota de Petisco (http://rotadopetisco.com/en/ (read all about it) as we didn't have time to discuss it).
Show notes
Born in Lisbon, moved to Macau, China when she was 2 due to her fathers involvement with Portugal broadcasting.
Her first impression of the Algarve was at Cabanas de Tavira when she was really small. The next time she visited was Vilamoura in her teens... (!)
Typical vacation spot for the whole of Portugal.
Escaping from the Algarve in August.
How she moved to the Algarve.
First job in the Algarve and then working for Eddie Murphy!
https://algarvetechhub.com/ (Algarve Tech Hub) makes its way into one more of our conversations.
https://algarveaddicts.com/a-ground-breaking-event-explodes-the-algarve-tech-scene/ (Share Algarve) is coming soon and we discuss the new vision for the conference.
Maria has a https://www.foodtoursalgarve.com (food tour company) which started "by accident" over three years ago. Canned food from Maria do Mar in Portimao.
Culinary Tourism as an incentive from the Tourism Boards, both the https://www.turismodoalgarve.pt/pt/menu/462/algarve-cooking-vacations.aspx (Região Turismo Algarve) and https://www.visitportugal.com/en/experiencias/gastronomia-e-vinhos (Portugal Tourism).
https://www.facebook.com/lagosfoodfest/ (Lagos food fest) 25,000 people come to Lagos for one weekend. It's in July 2019.
Gastronomic Conference has been designed to build a strategy around the food and beverage industry in the Algarve. The web site is coming soon and will be here: http://congressogastronomiadoalgarve.com/ (http://congressogastronomiadoalgarve.com/)
Maria's top spots! Beaches (all Google Maps links):
https://goo.gl/maps/yExdMJx5F322 (Camilo,)
https://goo.gl/maps/kax1jPoEoqj (Ingrina),
https://goo.gl/maps/qwbfursgG232 (Amado),
https://goo.gl/maps/oFH6XpRskGC2 (Arrifana),
https://goo.gl/maps/Zx7gWMPUj2y (Tavira)
Restaurants: https://goo.gl/maps/orZ2TqLfHn52 (Polvo e Compania (Santa Luzia),) https://goo.gl/maps/iuu2Cih7vbw (Come Na Gaveta (Tavira)), https://goo.gl/maps/CmqUzaRZ5GL2 (Ferradura ()Lagos)
Coastline: Walk the cliffs of Lagos from https://goo.gl/maps/bKSymTDmteR2 (Ponta da Piedade )to https://goo.gl/maps/4dsCiVdMyMq (Burgau)
(about 10kms)
https://goo.gl/maps/RaPRX7JEx5R2 (Monchique): Find a medronho distillery and then enjoy the different food. Maria talks about the origin of Carne de Porco Alentejano (pork and clams).
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Jason Brown, originally from South Africa made the move to Portugal a few years back and loves it here. We met at my house in São Brás de Alportel and had a great 30 minute discussion filled with tips for people arriving in the Algarve and how to acclimatize to the area.
Show notes
Moving to Portugal and pre-arrival impressions: A sleepy fishing village and similar to South Africa.
Vilamoura, Carvoeiro and Lagos get heavily marketed but smaller and more local places don't get as much attention which is totally understandable.
Getting off the plane from Wales and looking forward to an outdoors lifestyle with beach, barbecues and getting out and about. What more could anyone want?
Why Lagos? His parents were already there but Jason mentions history, tradition and culture all richly present in Lagos' modern day appearance. Young, vibey travellers, sometimes surfers and #vanlife followers. We chat about the Three Monkeys bar in Lagos and here's the https://www.alexinwanderland.com/earning-abroad-bartending-in-portugal/ (blog post) I mentioned.
Activities in the Algarve: how to join a group?
Jason suggests typing in "soccer algarve" (for example) into Facebook (or ask in our very own https://www.facebook.com/groups/algarveaddicts/ (Algarve Addicts Facebook group)!),
asking at your local sports store or local sports centre,
or chatting to the staff of a local bar/restaurant.
Be bold and set your own group up.
We talk walking football and the https://www.facebook.com/BurgauBarbarians/ (Burgau Barbarians)!
The reality of moving to and living in Portugal. Basic Portuguese is helpful and makes you feel more at home, but not entirely necessary. There are quite a few companies that can do the awful bureaucratic services for you. :)
Where to settle in the Algarve. Do a recce trip and use Airbnb to experience life like a local. Look at the main cities - you can find more info in my https://algarveaddicts.com/unfold-your-maps-algarve-geography/ (Algarve Geography podcast). Drive around and explore! Speak to people online and listen to all the https://algarveaddicts.com/category/podcast/ (Algarve Addicts podcasts,) they really will help you to acclimatize.
Jason's tells us the story of his business: https://www.accessalgarve.com/ (Access Algarve). In a nutshell it is a 2 for 1 voucher system.
Buy the book from Intermarché, Yellowfish, Visacar or
get the app directly through www.accessalgarve.com It costs €10 but I have organized a 10% discount for you if you quote "ALGARVEADDICTS" in the promotion section.
Jason's Algarve recommendations: "https://goo.gl/maps/TYaTsh5NB2n (A Rampa)" restaurant in Monchique for chicken piri piri.
Best beach is https://goo.gl/maps/KeV9h3aB8pK2 (Praia da Mareta) in Sagres. -
Yvette Martins
Yvette grew up in Canada and moved to our beautiful Algarve. She now owns an online travel business and is brimming with advice and tips. Listen to her one important takeaway from this podcast.
Show notes
Yvette grew up https://goo.gl/maps/fRv85JKv7nr (close to Vancouver) in Canada from Portuguese parents.
In her youth figure skating was a pastime, motocross was a passion.
Her move to Portugal when she was 14. Her parents were from https://goo.gl/maps/2EWCm88zGfs (Sabugal), near Castelo Branco in Portugal.
On moving to the Algarve, https://goo.gl/maps/CYhLEgToV3U2 (4 Estradas) near Almançil, she fell in love with the people and the natural landscapes.
After school she focused on nutrition and sports (The Academia Gym in Loulé, now called https://goo.gl/maps/4TFR4VHCsH82 (Moov Fitness Centre)), the restaurant industry, real estate and now online business through https://www.olalocal.pt/ (www.olalocal.pt)
We talk about being a local social media influencer and product placement.
A brand she recently worked with was The Holiday Inn in Armação de Pêra, which you may have seen our video of back in http://algarveaddicts.com/a-free-night-out-in-the-holiday-inn-algarve/ (VLOG number 3).
She also works with local clothing brands too.
Yvette's tips for young, budding Instagrammers. Be genuine, be yourself and get your profile up on http://www.influence.co (www.influence.co)
She prefers writing (inside tips for the Algarve) and photography and she tells a story from a community member requesting some romantic advice off her. See the related image on www.algarveaddicts.com/39
Yvette's Recommendations
https://goo.gl/maps/Wv4naxxqGFz (Loulé): one of her favourite places in the Algarve, a great place to experience local Portuguese culture, especially at the https://translate.google.com/translate?hl=&sl=pt&tl=en&u=http%3A%2F%2Fcineteatro.cm-loule.pt%2Fpt%2Fmenu%2F465%2Fhistoria.aspx (Loulé CineTeatro) (this link is a Google Translate version of the original Portuguese website). Also https://goo.gl/maps/76La8DLibNt (Ferragudo).
Yvette's most important piece of advice for you - hire a car!
Where is the best place to visit:
Lagos and Ponta Piedade, Praia do Camilo, Meia Praia
Beaches and caves in Lagoa: Praia da Marinha, Benagil
Our five barrier islands in the Ria Formosa and especially Armona Island.
Yvette's recommended seafood restaurant: https://goo.gl/maps/8MgzKuauJ5G2 (Sol e Mar) in Quarteira. Also https://goo.gl/maps/c6cGpXHKC6z (O Chiringuito Last Chance) in Sagres.
Coffee shop in Loulé called https://goo.gl/maps/nHiaaVZvSZ42 (Cafe Q)! -
Moving to Portugal
The Tilleys arrived this summer, hailing from Surrey and settling in the Algarve. We talk about where exactly a little later into the podcast. It was fantastic meeting them and great to hear their story! Listen along...
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Show notes
They're currently living in Olhão but originally from Kent and Surrey
Prior to the move, they spent a lot of time in Portugal and actually got married in https://goo.gl/maps/hv2Dj9oXeU82 (São Lourenço church) in Almançil, with a reception at https://goo.gl/maps/kzcMbJE7iNz (Pine Cliffs) (Albufeira).
Sam runs a software company and has always been keen to move to Portugal full time.
Schools - we discuss quite a few issues with schooling.
Working in the Algarve and the opportunities for growth, particularly in the IT industry. Sam has a wonderfully positive outlook. We discuss the https://algarvetechhub.com/ (Algarve Tech Hub) and the https://www.sharealgarve.com/ (Share Algarve) conference.
Using https://www.algarveremovals.com/ (Algarve Removals) to relocate their entire house was a stress free experience.
They found a villa in https://goo.gl/maps/XNpBjuySLm62 (Santa Barbara de Neixe) but didn't stay for long, are staying in Olhão now and will be moving to Faro.
Lou has found a lot of help from Facebook groups with https://www.facebook.com/groups/2262551864031032/ (Loulé Mums and Tots) and other groups.
We talk about the shopping centers a little: Mar Shopping, Forum Algarve in Faro, Algarve Shopping, Tavira Shopping.
How to connect in the Algarve? Find a group that shares similar interests to yours. Go to events. Get out there.
From Olhão we talk about Farol Island and Armona Island.
We talk about boat trips to the caves near Armação de Pera, dolphin watching in the wild (and in Zoomarine).
Ria Formosa https://goo.gl/maps/38GeymyU4iA2 (walking trail) with tons of chameleons and a tide mill next to the Ria Formosa.
We talk about Olhão and the fish markets, the nature trail, the fish rodizio restaurants (all you can eat) and all the things that are good about Olhão (http://algarveaddicts.com/olhao-outlaws-and-the-algarve-daily-news/ (including it's history)).
Suggestions! Restaurant Sardinha in Arrifes. -
Diogo Sousa, SUP Champion
Diogo has lived in Albufeira for most of his life and still loves it. It's probably the most contentious city in the entire Algarve when it comes to tourism as many people hate it, others love it! Do you love it or hate it? Listen up for Diogo's take on Albufeira...
Show notes
Welcome to Diogo Sousa who was born and still lives in Albufeira.
We discuss the quality of life that the beach affords us here in the Algarve.
When he was young he started skim-boarding on the beach and started working on the beach at 14 years old.
Three month long summer holidays working on his family's beach concession in Albufeira.
We talk about the http://algarveaddicts.com/algarve-night-life-where-would-you-like-to-party/ (night life) in Albufeira.
We talk about https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UXJ85RCcyPU (Zezé Camarinha), a self proclaimed local Playboy (this may only be funny to Portuguese people, although I found it hilarious).
The Portuguese Navy in Almada and then University in Faro: Sports Science.
Learning watersports and Sports Science in https://goo.gl/maps/sHFt4WgoBeu (Centro Nautico) (Faro Beach) and Penha Campus in Faro.
Thursday nights in Faro!
Working as a personal trainer in a gym in Portimão.
Teaching sailing to the kids in Marina Yacht Club in https://goo.gl/maps/HhvcQnmqxGQ2 (Albufeira Marina).
Opening his own business.
Being the best paddle boarder in Portugal and going to Sardinia to represent his country.
Portuguese food! Cataplana (fish stew in a big copper bowl) We talk about "Sete Maravilhas a Mesa" or the seven marvels of the table (literally translated). Sadly https://7maravilhas.pt/ (the website) is only really for Portuguese speakers. It's quite a big thing on TV.
We also discuss Javali (wild boar), Arroz de Pato (duck rice) and Bacalhau (codfish).
Diogo's suggestions: to party, go to Albufeira (listen to our http://algarveaddicts.com/algarve-night-life-where-would-you-like-to-party/ (night life podcast)), to relax head over to the west side of Albufeira to Praia Galé or even Falésia over on the eastern side of Albufeira.
Diogo's best beaches: no crowds and natural beauty: https://goo.gl/maps/r6N6f5rt84T2 (Praia Santa Eulália), https://goo.gl/maps/xsVaU9x1Xnr (Praia Galé), https://goo.gl/maps/DasZTKfCaqE2 (Praia da Coelha) and a secret beach...
Cliff-jumping in https://goo.gl/maps/iuHvoqHUjWo (Algar Seco) near Carvoeiro.
Find Diogo online with https://www.albufeira-watersports.com/ (Albufeira Watersports) and https://www.supalbufeira.com/ (SUP Albufeira.) -
Meet Becky. She dances at the Vilamoura Casino in their regular show, entitled "https://www.solverde.pt/eventos/timeless-e-motions/ (Timeless E-Motions)" this year. It's on at all three SolVerde Casinos: Praia da Rocha, Vilamoura and Monte Gordo, so wherever you are in the Algarve you'll be able to catch a glimpse of this highly entertaining show (and no, they aren't paying me to say this!).
Show notes
Accommodation in Vilamoura and one of the bigger problems in the Algarve: finding long term rentals.
Growing up in Yorkshire: rainy, cold but beautiful. Mountaineering at the age of 6, Yorkshire Dales lake district and the French alps. Glaciers and falling down crevasses.
Turning 16 and heading off to the https://www.northernballetschool.co.uk/en/welcome (Northern Ballet School) in Manchester.
8 years spent dancing in shows for https://www.ncl.com/es/en/ (Norwegian Cruise Lines) and never went to Norway!
A friend who danced for https://www.solverde.pt/eventos/timeless-e-motions/ (Solverde Casinos) (who have three casinos here in the Algarve) put her forward for a summer contract here in the Algarve.
Living in a foreign language speaking environment.
No drama with cast members like the racy 1995 film: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yCeCGcGAcfI (Showgirls)
One hour of work a day with a couple more hours of rehearsal each day. It sounds idyllic but if you look behind what it takes to get there (years of training and experience) and dancing in the face of injuries and sickness...
Mishaps in the middle of a show... Breaking props and dancers falling off the stage.
Keeping fit with gym, running, yoga and weights and coping with the heat. Free outdoor workout areas in many towns of the Algarve.
Stand up paddle boarding in the caves of the Algarve near Armação de Pêra.
Becky's suggestions: Go to https://goo.gl/maps/kesZbtv75qQ2 (Praia Marina) on the eastern side of the Marina in front of the Casino Vilamoura and the https://goo.gl/maps/5MqyLK9zpmJ2 (Tivoli Vilamoura Marina) Hotel. Also head to Praia da Falésia on the western side of the Marina (more specifically https://goo.gl/maps/tpo49ixLcgk (Praia da Rocha Baixinha Nascente)).
Here are some Google Map links to her suggestions: https://goo.gl/maps/cPcRrq794K72 (Patacas Bar), https://goo.gl/maps/4VWFeAvYGm62 (Oporto Wine Bar), https://goo.gl/maps/a7MG6ErRoUN2 (Rosas Cantina) Mexican Restaurant (we couldn't recall the name in the interview), https://goo.gl/maps/MD57r5ahjKu (Thai Beach) on Sunday afternoons and all other days too.
Albufeira, and the difference between Vilamoura.
We also mention https://goo.gl/maps/ySwXVkBafG32 (Lagos), about 75km and an hour's drive away to the west.
Public transport in the Algarve
Buses (cheap and quick) but research it before you hop on. We mention http://www.algarvebus.info/ (http://www.algarvebus.info/)
https://www.uber.com/ (Uber) is alive and well and legal in Portugal although it has had a rocky ride... Check the availability in quieter periods and more remote locations though.
https://www.instagram.com/beckylyons10/ (Follow Becky) on Instagram!
Check out the life of a dancer! Don't be fooled, a lot of seriously hard work goes into those shows too.
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I had no idea who Blair was... the only connection I had with this guy, was that he took a mesmerizing photo of Benagil cave. It was an image picturing his girlfriend. An image which was pretty sexual, but sensual, natural and bold at the same time. It showed that this guy knew a thing or two about photography but what it didn't tell me was that there was a brilliant story behind how he got down to Benagil.
Blair grew up in Cape Town into a nature friendly family. His father was a nature conservationist and his mother an entomologist. His desire for travel is evident while he designs himself a location independent career as an online teacher. What defines him though is a careless accident. Find out how he managed to look at the Algarve from a completely different perspective to the normal drinks, dinner and hotel tourist due to his traumatic accident and his resultant grateful outlook on life.
Show notes
Blair = "from the fields". We look into Blairs outdoor youth in Cape Town in South Africa.
Blair wanted to explore the world (like many young South Africans), travelling alone to the South of France after obtaining a few yacht qualifications.
What its like to fall out of a three storey window!
Split his right patella (knee), broke open his nasal cavity, broke some teeth, scarred his face, broke his ankle and spent a month in a French hospital.
Travelled with his girlfriend, https://www.instagram.com/beatriceljunggren/ (Beatrice), back to South Africa, then onto Majorca, Ibiza, Barcelona and the Caribbean before settling in Trafaria just south of Lisbon.
They set about planning a road trip from Lisbon to the Algarve (300km), with the idea to visit our iconic cliffs, caves and coves.
Driving down from Lisbon through Sines and down through the Costa Vicentina (West Coast national park) stopping off for a night on the beach on the west coast.
Do out of the norm things to have out of the norm experiences
We talk about this hidden gem below that they both found in https://goo.gl/maps/5SX4thJuWEo (Benagil Beach) and caves
https://www.instagram.com/p/BnGLy2AAB9B/?utm_source=ig_embed (A post shared by Blair Impson (@blair_withme)) on Aug 30, 2018 at 1:39am PDT
On swimming around to the Benagil cave at 7am: "Respect the ocean", really wise words. It's about 100m but this depends on the tide (high tide is a longer swim).
Floating around https://goo.gl/maps/YVDB7DMg6yC2 (Ponte da Piedade) in Lagos with a flotation device and unfriendly life guards.
Blair Impson
You can follow Blair and his girlfriend Beatrice on Instagram. Give them some love!
Blair https://www.instagram.com/blair_withme/ (https://www.instagram.com/blair_withme/)
Beatrice https://www.instagram.com/beatriceljunggren/ (https://www.instagram.com/beatriceljunggren/) -
This podcast is slightly different from my regular show where I interview people and chip away at their stories of the Algarve. Today, I speak about my experiences as I changed my career (call it a mid life crisis if you will) and stumbled across the harsh reality of the changes our beautiful planet is reeling from. Have a listen, it's only a quarter of an hour...
Show notes
https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2016/10/161027113306.htm (Global animal population) has declined by 58%
Boyan Slat develops "https://www.theoceancleanup.com (The Ocean Cleanup)".
The Facebook donation link: https://www.facebook.com/donate/1105689376236803/ (https://www.facebook.com/donate/1105689376236803/)
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Natasha Donn
Natasha is an engaging and delightful character, brimming with personality and juicy tidbits of life in the Algarve. She is a career journalist, reporting on all the fascinating stories in the Algarve. Let me tell you there are some miraculously scandalous stories about! Listen on to her engaging tale:
Show notes
On journalism in the modern day.
Natasha always wanted to be a journalist, ever since the age of 9.
Living in a whorehouse in Portsmouth at college.
The Surrey and South London News Group: "The Balham and Tooting News".
"Journalism is writing what someone doesn't want to see in print, everything else is just PR".
On being threatened with defamation and staying out of jail!
A part time job filing in the basement of a multi-millionaire turned into being his personal assistant around the world for a few years.
Natasha fell pregnant and moved over with the father of her child to Portugal.
"Picked up Portuguese in 5 minutes" and absolutely loved it whilst in Praia da Luz.
She started writing for Discover Lagos in 1990 and has been writing ever since.
Scratching under the surface of the Algarve and there are some pretty gritty stories to uncover:
The ongoing story of http://portugalresident.com/premier-fx-%E2%80%9Cbombshell%E2%80%9D-the-company-had-no-authorisation-to-hold-client-funds (Premier FX)
http://portugalresident.com/new-legal-bid-to-block-mega-development-near-lagoa-dos-salgados (Salgados Development)
http://portugalresident.com/judges-stall-galp-eni%E2%80%99s-oil-drilling-off-aljezur-coast (Algarve Oil) story
Natasha mentions http://portugalresident.com/protestors-demonstrate-over-televised-bullfight (stories about bullfighting).
We talk about http://www.pan.com.pt/ (PAN), the Portuguese political party.
Paul Rees' http://algarveaddicts.com/olhao-outlaws-and-the-algarve-daily-news/ (Algarve Daily News.)
Natasha's recommendations:
https://goo.gl/maps/nJya3pq6oKz (Cordoama) and https://goo.gl/maps/8ctg43wBf1t (Castelejo) Beaches.
https://goo.gl/maps/wx21Krre4F22 (Ingrina), https://goo.gl/maps/fbDWdyQjRak (Zavial) and https://goo.gl/maps/Hi3oiE5vtox (Salema) on the south coast.
"Do not go to Albufeira".
Natasha currently writes for the Portugal Resident, look for her name on the bottom of each article. Here's a good one about a person http://portugalresident.com/italian-%E2%80%9Cfalls%E2%80%9D-into-famous-sculpture-ending-up-in-hospital (falling into a sculpture)! -
Algarve Rock Brewery
Their website reads. "Algarve Rock was started by two guys that are passionate about drinking real beer. Somebody had to do something about the lack of quality craft beers available in the Algarve; why not us? That’s why we created Algarve Rock. We’re here to put Portuguese craft beer on the map." They certainly have! I interviewed Neil from http://algarverock.com (Algarve Rock Brewery). Have a listen!
Show notes
How Algarve Rock started. After 10 years of holidaying in the Algarve, Neil and his father in law took the leap.
Neil grew up near Sheffield and his father in law introduced them to the Algarve through his holiday home for the past 9 years in Quinta do Lago.
How Neil got into business and the first thoughts of a brewery whilst sitting at the https://goo.gl/maps/2go8sMktZtx (Cheeky Pup) in Quinta do Lago.
Investment through the https://www.portugal2020.pt/Portal2020 (Portugal 2020) scheme.
How Neil and his wife enjoyed the Algarve on arrival. We talk about the nightlife in Faro.
Where can you try Algarve Rock Beer? Get in touch through their website at http://algarverock.com (www.algarverockbrewery.com)
Beer festivals were a great start for the brand
The first one they attended was in Lisbon.
Minho Beer Fest
Alameda Beer Fest in Faro
Silves Beer Fest
How Neil got the idea for his seasonal beer, the Piri Piri Pilsner (see Instagram image below).
Some of the challenges in setting up the business.
We go through each of their zero chemical beers (all between 4 and 5% alcohol by volume):
STEADY Pale Ale
SOLID Red Ale
SESSION IPA
STOUT Porter Portuguesa
SHARP Pilsner
We discuss the potential for a Weiss Beer, and also the upcoming tastings and tours of the brewery.
Neil's restaurant and bar recommendations:
https://goo.gl/maps/PB3NtRKpF8U2 (Cheeky Pup),
https://goo.gl/maps/a5e9RmosMGu (Melting Pot)
https://goo.gl/maps/VcZRbGdcPLP2 (The Shack)
https://goo.gl/maps/jKDNxvfjPT52 (Wax Restobar)
https://goo.gl/maps/31EaWBhxcon (Elementos)
Watch out for the new restaurant opening next to Elementos
https://goo.gl/maps/dDbPC8A5Sd82 (Castelo Bar) in Faro
https://goo.gl/maps/2J2LxTKr4bP2 (Casa Vostra)
https://goo.gl/maps/Zcbm6JR4LTL2 (Butchers)
https://goo.gl/maps/EoYGKkKxuqs (Gamboa) for steak
https://goo.gl/maps/iKjziR4yH952 (Marufos) for chicken
https://goo.gl/maps/e9zLAMVQDPK2 (Earth Café) in Carvoeiro
Beaches
Praia do Evaristio
Praia do Carvoeiro
Praia Grande Ferragudo (Clube Nau)
Benagil Beach
https://www.instagram.com/p/Bl5oBtdH0BF/?utm_source=ig_embed (A post shared by Algarve Rock Brewery (@algarverockbrewery)) on Jul 31, 2018 at 8:04am PDT
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It's wonderful to welcome Fiona Butler from http://www.myguidealgarve.com (www.myguidealgarve.com) She has been running her website for ten years now and has picked up an awful lot of great information in the process. She shares it with you on the latest episode of Algarve Addicts. Thanks for listening!
Fiona Butler show notes
Her youth in Ireland and being a holiday rep in the Algarve.
Faro airport at 3am back in the 90s.
Praia da Rocha, Praia de Vau and Alvor, stories from the past.
Alvor walkway and the lifesavers building (where you can rent paddle-boards, windsurfers and kayaks).
Restaurant Caniço renowned for it's seafood as you move east from Alvor towards Praia da Rocha.
Alvor boat trips do great trips through the rock cliffs near Prainha.
"Dust was your default setting" and we talk about Albufeira, Vilamoura, Vale do Lobo and Quinta do Lago (we talk a little about the airplanes... check out our podcast with http://algarveaddicts.com/the-best-job-in-the-algarve/ (Chris the pilot))
We talk about Faro as well (more with http://algarveaddicts.com/great-recommendations-from-carlos-faro-tour-guide/ (Carlos in Episode 29))
How Fiona went from holiday rep to online business owner of http://www.myguidealgarve.com (www.myguidealgarve.com)
Summer 2018 and the major events in the Algarve:
https://www.facebook.com/FestivaldejazzdeLoule (Loule Jazz)
https://www.lagoajazzfest.com/ (Lagoa Jazz Fest) at Fontes de Estombar
https://www.facebook.com/Feira-Medieval-de-Silves-231860703494421/ (Silves Medieval Fest)
http://silvesbeerfest.pt/ (Silves Beer Fest)
http://www.cm-faro.pt/pt/8063/alameda-beer-fest.aspx (Alameda Beer Fest) (270 types of beer in Faro)
Medieval Fest Alvor
Pirate Week in Armação de Pêra
Pirate Week in Alvor
http://thebpmfestival.com/ (BPM Festival) in Praia da Rocha (Sept 20-23 2018)
https://www.facebook.com/pg/SummerSoundPortimao (Summersound) at NoSolo Agua (August 17-18 2018)
Baixafest Faro
Festival F
Algarve Orchestra
Algarve Jazz Club
Sardine Festival in Portimão
Seafood festival in Olhao (we talk a little about Olhão, the islands, Maramais Bar and there's more in Episode Paul Reese).
https://vilavitaparc.com/en/upcoming-events/oktoberfest-at-the-biergarten (Oktoberfest in Porches) (also craft beer festival)
Paderne Medieval Festival and Christmas markets later in the year.
Goose Barnacle Festival ("Perceves!")
Lusa night festival in Loulé.
Querença Chouriço Festival (spring time).
Sao Bras Feira de Serra (country fair)
Fataçil agricultural fair.
Fiona's recommendations:
https://goo.gl/maps/Crtzx75qtE52 (Alvor Beach)
https://goo.gl/maps/CyThgRNnN6D2 (Windsurf Restaurant) on Alvor Beach (no TV, no music).
https://goo.gl/maps/LgSXhJWcJxL2 (Ria Formosa) (our 60km long wetlands to the east of Faro).
https://goo.gl/maps/Br9qwjBM1sG2 (Cacela Velha) (the "source" of the Ria Formosa).
https://goo.gl/maps/PQe8vVQ67w82 (West Coast) (the Costa Vicentina) near Sagres, Aljezur, Arrifana etc. -
Professor Luis Coelho
Meet Professor Luis Coelho from the University of the Algarve. He is a lecturer in the Faculty of Economics and is a respected voice in the community, writing for an online magazine as well as his day to day work and being invited to sit on various conference panels. I thoroughly enjoyed our chat and I am sure you will too. Listen here -->
Show notes
The vagaries of professional titles in Portugal - different to other places in the world.
Luis was born in Beja, just north of the Algarve in the Alentejo Province.
A dream of being a footballer, became a desire to being a vet and then he actually studied economics at the University of the Algarve.
Studying at the https://www.ualg.pt/en (UALG), what life was like... as an outsider (a non Algarvio).
Early impressions of the Algarve and https://goo.gl/maps/sdXQGtRmCr82 (Monte Gordo) in particular.
Investments in the Algarve: beautifying the cities, sewage improvements, and how clean the tap water is.
A short history of the Algarve through an economic lens: canned fish industry, Faro airport was constructed in 1969.
Tinned Food Restaurant in Portimão: https://goo.gl/maps/pKmfeELaZny (Maria do Mar)
Tourism began in Portimão and Tavira and then Vilamoura/Quinta do Lago (with Andre Jordan - see http://algarveaddicts.com/constantino-jordan-on-the-most-prestigious-developments-in-the-algarve/ (Constantino Jordan's) interview).
Waves of economic activity from the 70's until 2010 when the Economic Crisis hit.
Current economic growth in Portugal is STRONG.
Main economic activities in the Algarve. Tourism is the major catalyst.
How to diversify from tourism into other industries. Could tech be one? We discuss http://www.cria.pt/ (CRIA) and The Algarve Tech Hub.
Potential growth areas in the Algarve: AirBnb or "Alojamentio Local". Olhão and the Italians (Portimão and Tavira could be good places).
Luis' restaurant recommendations: Praia de Faro (Faro Beach) https://goo.gl/maps/7LqDwGCjE1T2 (Wax Restobar), https://goo.gl/maps/RrCMvqAHDLA2 (Ze Maria)
Luis writes for an online magazine called http://www.lugaraosul.pt/luiscoelho.html (Lugar ao Sul) in Portuguese (if you can't read Portuguese you could always try https://translate.google.com/translate?sl=pt&tl=en&js=y&prev=_t&hl=en&ie=UTF-8&u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.lugaraosul.pt%2Fentrada%2Fnos-deviamos-e-de-ser-coreanos-do-sul-claro&edit-text=&act=url (Google's laborious translator) which is better than it used to be but still definitely not perfect).
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Carlos from Take Algarve
Carlos runs regular tours around Faro through his company https://www.takealgarve.com/ (Take Algarve). Listen to his story.
Show notes
Carlos tells us the story of the place we are conducting the interview: https://goo.gl/maps/CZuxrDRTZBm (Café Aliança) (officially called Café Alliança Cervejaria) in Faro.
Carlos was born in Faro but lived in Spain and Poland and we talk about the differences between Faro now and the Faro of his youth: the University and the airport.
The people have changed, they used to play football in the streets and now all the kids are plugged into their electronic devices, which is probably the same the world over. Many of the people in the downtown area are tourists.
Free Tours in Faro and the concept of free tours. https://www.takealgarve.com/ (Take Algarve) True Tours. I love this: "Some people call it Algarve. We call it home."
Carlos and his competition started up in the same month, so they are both labelled as "the original Faro Tour".
Breaking down his tour of Faro. From Café Aliança and moving into the old town and the history of Faro. See also our podcast on http://algarveaddicts.com/algarve-history/ (Algarve History).
The railway as a barrier to the Ria Formosa and Faro as a city that has turned it's back on the sea. In contradiction we talk about https://algarvedailynews.com/news/11817-faro-council-presents-170-million-dockland-development (plans for a development) near the container terminal.
We talk about events and the https://goo.gl/maps/8wi7uuLeVsy (Jardim Manuel Bivar) or the Jardim das Docas.
We talk about the football world cup and crazily you can hear a game going on in the background.
Also https://goo.gl/maps/dKVfddrdT9U2 (Hotel Eva) rooftop pool parties!
https://www.facebook.com/baixastreetfestfaro/ (Baixa Street Fest) in July and August every Friday night.
https://goo.gl/maps/bts2Qh9TVyu (Castle Beer Factory)
https://goo.gl/maps/apajSa7EQiu (Teatro Lethes)
Restaurants in Faro: Carlos' favourites.
https://goo.gl/maps/ceK2yaV1RT32 (Restaurant Travessa)
https://goo.gl/maps/jzgC2icLFo62 (Moinhos do Grelha)
Cafés in Faro
https://goo.gl/maps/kaGEXFQqCrs (Baixa Café)
Café Alliança (of course!)
https://goo.gl/maps/bfkUsB9HXAu (Eme Café)
https://goo.gl/maps/MxHexvMwM3T2 (Nautico Café)
https://goo.gl/maps/VbY22EGm1Mw (Lab Terrace Café)
The Hotel Rooftop bars as we discussed earlier.
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Greg Boegner from PortugalConfidential.com
Meet Greg, who moved to the Algarve from the USA in 2008. He runs a successful website all about Portugal over at http://www.portugalconfidential.com (www.portugalconfidential.com) Listen to his story.
Show notes
Positive growth and a new department of the business.
The story of https://portugalconfidential.com/ (Portugal Confidential), from a blog to a business.
Travelling around Portugal discovering new businesses and writing about it.
Travel boards and familiarization trips.
About Greg and his history in Houston, Texas.
We chat about Greg's time as the TV Producer for NASA's shuttle programme.
Greg moves to Hollywood in 1988 and encounters a writers strike.
Answering phones for https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pacific_Arts_Corporation (Pacific Arts) (who started the music video concept) and moved up to the Director of Acquisitions.
Workout videos and https://youtu.be/VNt9qP0_hYI?t=1m49s (yoga videos with Ali McGraw). He moved over to Fox and eventually children's programming.
Greg was looking for something new to do and looking at moving to Europe, when a friend suggested he check out a new film studio being created in the Algarve. So he moved in 2008.
We discuss the economic crisis in Portugal and after the film studio ran out of money Greg spent his days blogging on Portugal Confidential.
A renewed sense of positivity now in Portugal, with lots of investment.
Greg's recommendations: https://goo.gl/maps/8io16dK65fz (Tavira), Santa Luzia and his favourite beach https://goo.gl/maps/TGaMheUem9C2 (Praia do Barril), https://goo.gl/maps/LRZTWP9DmPn (Praia da Marinha)
The things we'll miss if we leave here: slow eating.
Greg recommends going down to https://goo.gl/maps/uqrih2Mzr122 (Cacela Velha) for lunch, https://goo.gl/maps/obpuD5WPoPB2 (Casa do Polvo) in Santa Luzia (for octopus specialities) .
We move on to discuss Portugal Confidential and a https://portugalconfidential.com/comporta-portugal-travel-guide/ (new guide to Comporta) (a lovely break from the Algarve). -
Bradley Querl (really it should be Curl, shouldn't it?) has practiced hair design (now with his salon called https://goo.gl/maps/yFpECeEovjH2 (B Hair Design)) all his life and is a 3rd generation hair designer. Bradley is the consummate professional and does a fantastic job with anyone's head, even throwing in a super relaxing head massage into the deal. I checked in with Brad to here his story and what his take is on life in the Algarve. If you resonate with any of his suggestions, let us know!
Tune in to Bradley's interview
B Hair Design Show notes
We talk about https://goo.gl/maps/yFpECeEovjH2 (B Hair Design's location), history and the tough times starting up a business in the middle of Portugal's dreaded crisis. 2008-2012 was a tough time for everyone here.
Bradley's hair history: Zimbabwe, London and Portugal.
Hair Design vs Hair Dresser - the new terminology. In Portugal all hairdressers are generally called "Cabelereiros". Personal note: I love having my hair cut while I'm travelling, it just feels like an insight to local life somehow. Do you agree?
A partnership offer in the Algarve. In Faro to be more precise.
We talk about the area where Brad lives near Quarteira and https://goo.gl/maps/D1VpFRhd5wF2 (Social Restaurant) in particular.
Brad's recommendations: Alte Hotel
We digress to Trail running and Mountain biking in the Algarve: the Trail Run
Cork: Educating visitors about cork trees!
https://goo.gl/maps/CNJN7fFzWMF2 (Sagres), the end of the world and her fantastic cliffs, rich history and authentic surf lifestyle.
New Sushi Restaurant in Loulé called https://goo.gl/maps/2AYfyfdvj5t (Artigo 3), highly recommended by both Bradley and another guest of mine, http://algarveaddicts.com/constantino-jordan-on-the-most-prestigious-developments-in-the-algarve/ (Constantino Jordan).
https://goo.gl/maps/x8RTPCfa7GA2 (Manzo Steakhouse) near Albufeira in Olhos de Água.
Starting a business in the Algarve: "a big shock", a slower pace of life, being late for meetings and how to be conscious of the traditional Portuguese lunchtime.
Parties on the beach, here's a whole selection - No Solo Agua, Thai Beach, Julias, Izzys, Temperus Beach Restaurant
Bradley turns the tables on me and quizzes me about the origins of Algarve Addicts! Good one :) -
Show notes
100% Algarvian, born in Loule and raised in Albufeira.
Shopping trips to Ayamonte in Spain.
Dreams of Archaeology, History and Architecture all led to a University degree in Lisbon.
Her love of the Algarve brought her to a job in tourism as a Duty Manager at a hotel in Albufeira, helping the clients.
Albufeira Tourism Board: familiarization trips, roadshows, workshops and promotion which she realized she really loved.
Desiderio Silva (current President of the Algarve Tourism) invited Dora to come over as his chief of staff, writing speeches and controlling his agenda.
We discuss the difference between the http://www.turismodoalgarve.pt/home.html (Regional Tourism Board) and the http://www.algarvepromotion.pt/en/Default.aspx (Algarve Tourism Association).
The board helps visitors to the Algarve with Information Offices in each city, they manage a calendar of events and promote the Algarve.
The Association on the other hand, works with airlines to ensure a constant availability of flights for people wishing to travel to the Algarve, organize press trips, familiarization trips, and segment their operations in to different segments: sun and sea, golf, MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions).
Why the light is so good in the Algarve for photography...
How the Algarve is benefiting from a surge in tourism and how to retain those travellers.
Helping to create businesses in the Algarve.
Dora's suggestions for travellers to the Algarve: https://eatingalgarvetours.com/en/ (Eating Algarve Food Tours)
Algarve Tourism Association: http://www.algarvepromotion.pt/en/Default.aspx (http://www.algarvepromotion.pt/en/Default.aspx)
Visit Algarve: http://www.visitalgarve.pt/en/Default.aspx (http://www.visitalgarve.pt/en/Default.aspx)
Algarve 365: http://www.365algarve.pt/en/agenda.aspx (http://www.365algarve.pt/en/agenda.aspx) -
Mark Sebastian Kiss DJ
Mark is a wonderful character full of fascinating stories and he agreed to sit down for a chat with us. Join us for a great chat!
Show notes
Mark Sebastian was born in Cheshire, UK.
Holidays in Majorca led to getting a job there and explored playing records in clubs.
A company called "Music Service" sent Mark out to ski-resorts, like https://goo.gl/maps/QJMHh8YvWSx (Wengen).
He started at St Thomas Hospital Radio in London and then moved into the pirate radio scene in London: Kiss100 and JazzFM... Mark's training ground.
The KissFM Franchise and moving to the Algarve in 1997.
Interviewing DJ https://www.facebook.com/christianfdj (Christian F.) about his song "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wDSZky_JiPs (Secret)" which is all about the Algarve.
Mark Sebastian DJ's at a lot of weddings during the summers: best wedding location is Ferragudo. Also another great one is https://goo.gl/maps/o3SY7d81EPR2 (Praia Senhora da Rocha)
Quarteira is a great suggestion to spend some time: reasonably priced and up and coming.
Portuguese wine and the Bacchus Festival also known as the Portugal Wine Fair.
We chat about the local Jazz scene in the Algarve: Cafe Ingles in Silves, Jazz in the São Bras museum every month, Jazz in Faro and Jazz Festival in Loulé.
Changes to the Algarve in the last 20 years: Roundabouts, shopping centres and tolls on the A22 highway.
What NOT to miss in the Algarve: the Ria Formosa islands, Faro with it's funky streets and bars, Quarteira up and coming, Lagos, Monchique ... "there are not many horrible places in the Algarve".
Whats up at 5.30pm every day on http://www.kissfm.pt/ (KissFM ) Mark mentions a website called Eventa B and for the life of me I can't find it. Can you?
https://www.facebook.com/kissfmportugal/ (KissFM Facebook) Every day Mark is on KissFM Radio from 4-8pm http://www.kissfm.pt (www.kissfm.pt) -
Constantino Jordan
He has worked on the most prestigious residential and hotel developments in the Algarve region including Quinta do Lago and Vilamoura. He has a very positive outlook for the future of the Algarve, find out in this informative half hour chat with me.
Show notes
Born in Argentina, Constantino moved to https://www.google.pt/maps/place/Liechtenstein/@47.1595664,9.4135528,11z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m13!1m7!3m6!1s0x4799f3418489111d:0x1859f15333f760d!2s72805+Lichtenstein,+Germany!3b1!8m2!3d48.4338176!4d9.2559325!3m4!1s0x479b31441d472ffd:0x60eab536dd5ab189!8m2!3d47.1897125!4d9.5553589 (Liechtensten) when he was 3 and holidayed regularly in the Algarve, due to his father's business interests (his father had founded the Quinta do Lago Resort near Almançil. Read about the history of the resort https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Quinta_do_Lago (on Wikipedia)).
What the Algarve was like back in the 70s: 6 hour drives from Lisbon, only corner shops and nothing going on.
Constantino Jordan's most interesting town in the Algarve: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Olh%C3%A3o (Olhão) and why.
The family business: "Resort Development". Selling Quinta do Lago, 1994 Developing "Vilar do Golf" and the land where https://www.montedaquintaresort.com/en/ (Monte da Quinta) is today.
Moving on to Vilamoura which became a massive project up until 2007 (bigger than Euro Disney in size). The marina has 30-40,000 people in an evening in summer.
Vilamoura used to be a farm called Morgado do Quarteira (https://www.visitportugal.com/en/NR/exeres/133DE9D8-68EC-42D8-A155-E01A0DA525E8 (Estalegem do Cegonha) was the old manor house) bought in the 60s by Cupertino Miranda and he started to develop it with his partners. There is a great page illustrating the https://www.algarverealestate.com/algarve-guide/vilamoura-since-1971/ (history of Vilamoura in photos).
We talk about sustainable development and ecotourism.
Portugal tourism is booming right now and we talk about how this happened and the potential of the Algarve as a hub for other industries beyond tourism like technology.
Faro has a small but http://algarveaddicts.com/a-ground-breaking-event-explodes-the-algarve-tech-scene/ (vibrant tech scene) which is extremely exciting, "the Algarve needs revolution" (in a business sense of course).
Lisbon as an example is catering to a more discerning market and the Algarve is following suit. We talk about sushi as an example and https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g189118-d11920524-Reviews-Cozinha_Japonesa_Artigo_Tres-Loule_Faro_District_Algarve.html (Artigo 3 in Loulé). Check out their Sushi! Restaurant design is so important and entrepreneurs need training.
Good examples of restaurants: https://www.pizzeriacasavostra.com/ (Pizzeria Casavostra) in Almançil.
You can find Constantino online through his web site http://www.constantinojordan.com/en/ (www.constantinojordan.com) / https://www.facebook.com/constantinojordanpropertytourisminvestmentadvisory/ (Facebook) / https://www.linkedin.com/in/constantinojordan/ (Linkedin ) - もっと表示する
