Portugal Living Magazine - Summer 2022

6 Feedback Your reactions—kudos and kvetches—to our contents. 8 Rant! Annoyed at SEF’s broken system. 10 Q&A Do you need to know Portuguese to be granted citizenship? 12 Portugal’s Alentejo Wines 12 Noteworthy News, condensed and compiled for your information. 25 More Cowbell Third-generation Cowbell Masters operate the last remaining handmade cowbell factory in the capital of cowbell country. 26 Exploring Portugal by Bicycle Updated annually, an online guidebook has downloadable maps of cycling routes covering more than 5,800 kilometers in every region of Portugal. 28 Creepy Crawlers While somewhat pesky, it is extremely rare to be inflicted with serious problems by any of Portugal’s flies, bugs, or creepy crawlers. 30 Algarve’s Road Less Travelled Heading down to the Algarve, pleasure is found in this leisurely route and the Fisherman’s Trail. 32 The Stranger’s Homecoming A love story to Portugal, a poignant tale of exile. 34 That Dreaded Language Test How to be prepared and pass the Portuguese language exam. 36 Portugal’s Pride: LGBT in Portugal 40 From Madeira with Love About 520 kilometers (320 mi) west of Morocco, the island has a warm, subtropical climate and is known for its namesake wine. 43 Alentejo Wines The Alentejo is famous for easy-drinking, full-bodied, fruity red wines. 44 Living Off the Grid Contrary to popular belief, you don't need to be off-the-rails to live off-the-grid in Portugal. 47 Legal Options for Opening a Small Business A historically bureaucratic country, Portugal has made a huge effort in the last decade to speed up the incorporation of companies and the opening of businesses. 49 After Your Pets Arrive Bringing your furry family members could be the most complex and frustrating part of making a new home here 52 A Taxing Situation Paying Taxes as an American in Portugal. 54 Portrait of an Artist Back from the Brink Nothing could have prepared Todd Doleshall for the life-threatening illness that transformed his life, ultimately leading him to a new career as an artist. 57 Portugal’s Top TV Chefs Henrique Sá Pessoa, Tía Cátia, Filipa Gomes, Jamie Oliver, and Nigella Lawson host standout programs on the 24Kitchen TV channel. 60 Not All Property Portals Are Alike What to look for when searching for homes. 62 On the Soul of Portuguese Shoes Portuguese shoes are really special. 64 My Story Mike Wasinski sometimes forgets how challenging his first few weeks in a new country were. 65 Neighbors 68 Espectáculos Mark your calendars for these concerts and special events. 69 Portuguese with Leo Learn Portuguese more efficiently and effectively. 70 Classified Advertising 71 Business & Professional Directory 73 Photo Finish