## New Health Measures by DGS

The **General Directorate of Health (DGS)** has announced a comprehensive set of measures aimed at **accelerating the prevention and control of obesity** in Portugal. This initiative comes in response to the alarming statistic that **over one in four adults** in the country is affected by this pressing public health issue.

![Obesity Impact](https://asset.skoiy.com/jnrcnjwljorqgsbu/fkzgskpdd43l.jpg?w=1852&q=80&)
*Photo: David Tiago / Archive*

### The Impact of Obesity
Obesity significantly contributes to the disease burden within the Portuguese population, making it crucial for health authorities to address the situation effectively. The DGS's new measures focus on various strategies to promote healthier lifestyles and prevent obesity-related complications among adults.

Stay tuned for more updates on this important health initiative!

A Direção-Geral da Saúde (DGS) lança hoje um conjunto de medidas para acelerar a prevenção e o controlo da obesidade, um dos principais problemas de saúde pública, que afeta mais de um em cada quatro adultos em Portugal.

Portugal Takes Bold Steps to Combat Obesity: New Health Measures Unveiled

**With nearly 2000km of stunning coastline, Portugal offers countless beach options.** We've curated a list of the best towns and villages that provide easy access to these beautiful shores. Here are the top 9 beach towns you must visit:  

### 1. Nazaré  
**Best for the classic Portuguese summer beach experience**  
Nazaré boasts a **1.5km-long beach** that attracts tens of thousands during summer. Experience the vibrant atmosphere with aged vendors selling seafood and traditional sunbathing tents. **Activities:** Climb to Sítio for breathtaking views and the famous big wave surfing. **Eat at:** [Taberna d’Adélia](https://www.tabernadadelia.pt/) for delicious local fish. **Stay at:** [Hotel Ribamar](https://pt-pt.facebook.com/ribamar.hotel.restaurante/) with a charming retro vibe. **Tip:** Visit from **October to March** for epic waves.  

![Nazaré Beach](https://lp-cms-production.imgix.net/2025-03/202307-Coast-Portugal-6798.jpg?auto=format,compress&q=72&fit=crop)  
*A sun-filled afternoon on the beaches of Nazaré. Austin Bush/Lonely Planet*  

### 2. Peniche  
**Best for island-hopping**  
Peniche offers a charming historical center and is a gateway to the **Berlinga Islands**. **Activities:** Take a boat to Berlenga Grande for hiking and birdwatching. **Eat at:** [Tasca do Joel](https://www.tascadojoel.pt/) for fresh fish and local delicacies. **Stay at:** [Surfers Lodge Peniche](https://surferslodgepeniche.com/) close to the beach.  

![Peniche](https://lp-cms-production.imgix.net/2025-03/shutterstock2523325109.jpg?auto=format,compress&q=72&fit=crop)  
*The coastal fishing town of Peniche offers access to the Berlinga Islands. Mazur Travel/Shutterstock*  

### 3. Porto Santo  
**Best for lounging in the sand**  
Part of the Madeiran Archipelago, Porto Santo features a **7.5km-long golden-sand beach**. **Activities:** Enjoy the therapeutic sands and relax by the water. **Eat at:** [Mercado Velho](https://www.facebook.com/oMercadoVelho/?locale=pt_PT) for local dishes. **Stay at:** [Hotel Porto Santo & Spa](https://www.hotelportosanto.com/) for a funky vibe. **Tip:** Visit in the off-season for a quieter experience.  

![Porto Santo](https://lp-cms-production.imgix.net/2025-03/shutterstock675416026.jpg?auto=format,compress&q=72&fit=crop)  
*Porto Santo's sandy beaches are ideal. Russ Heinl/Shutterstock*  

### 4. Arrifana  
**Best for dramatic scenery**  
Nestled in Costa Vicentina, Arrifana offers stunning cliff views and great surfing spots. **Activities:** Explore nearby beaches like Praia da Bordeira. **Eat at:** [O Paulo](https://restauranteopaulo.com/) for grilled seafood with a view. **Stay at:** [Beco da Liberdade Beach Houses](https://becodaliberdade.com/) for a unique experience.  

![Arrifana](https://lp-cms-production.imgix.net/2025-03/shutterstock2501335051.jpg?auto=format,compress&q=72&fit=crop)  
*Left: Beachgoers walk along the shore in Arrifana. Shutterstock*  

### 5. Ericeira  
**Best for an active beach stay**  
Just north of Lisbon, Ericeira is famous for surfing, kitesurfing, and more. **Activities:** Enjoy various water sports and land activities. **Eat at:** [Snack-Bar Clube Naval da Ericeira](https://www.facebook.com/snackbarcnericeira/?locale=pt_PT) for local grilled fish. **Stay at:** [Hotel Vila Galé Ericeira](https://www.vilagale.com/br/hoteis/costa-de-lisboa/vila-gale-ericeira) for a beachfront experience. **Tip:** Kitesurfing season runs from **May to October**.  

![Ericeira](https://lp-cms-production.imgix.net/2025-03/Portugal-2024-Kerry-Murray-LP-698.jpg?auto=format,compress&q=72&fit=crop)  
*Ericeira is home to dramatic cliffs and luxurious beaches. Kerry Murray/Lonely Planet*  

### 6. Tavira  
**Best for a quiet side of the Algarve**  
Tavira offers access to less-visited beaches in the Algarve. **Activities:** Visit Ilha de Tavira for beautiful sandy shores. **Eat at:** [Casa do Polvo](https://casadopolvosantaluzia.pt/) for octopus specialties. **Stay at:** [Pousada Convento Tavira](https://www.pousadas.pt/pt/hotel/pousada-tavira) in a historic convent.  

![Tavira](https://lp-cms-production.imgix.net/2025-03/shutterstockRF1286109199.jpg?auto=format,compress&q=72&fit=crop)  
*Avoid the crowds in Algarve by opting for the small beach town, Tavira. Joo Adlio Moreira/Getty Images*  

### 7. Odeceixe  
**Best for a local-style beach escape**  
Every August, locals flock to Odeceixe for a beach getaway. **Activities:** Enjoy paddleboarding and surfing. **Eat at:** [Näperõn](https://www.instagram.com/naperon.restaurante/?hl=en) for upscale dining. **Stay at:** [Amaria](https://amaria.pt/) for a chic experience.  

![Odeceixe](https://lp-cms-production.imgix.net/2025-03/shutterstock120508258.jpg?auto=format,compress&q=72&fit=crop)  
*Visitors lounge in the soft sand of Odeceixe. Shutterstock*  

### 8. Comporta  
**Best for a chic beach destination**  
Comporta is known as the “Hamptons of Portugal” with designer hotels and excellent beaches. **Activities:** Explore the Tróia Peninsula's beautiful beaches. **Eat at:** [Canalha Comporta](https://www.instagram.com/canalhacomporta/?hl=en) for gourmet dining. **Stay at:** [Sublime Comporta](https://www.sublimecomporta.pt/) for a luxurious experience.  

![Comporta](https://lp-cms-production.imgix.net/2025-03/shutterstockRF1285479409.jpg?auto=format,compress&q=72&fit=crop)  
*One of the rare, yet wonderful beaches of the Azores. Alfred Velosa/Shutterstock*  

### 9. Almagreira, Santa Maria Island  
**Best for a remote beach**  
The Azores offer beautiful coastline, with Praia Formosa being an exception for white sand. **Activities:** Enjoy swimming and surfing at this family-friendly beach. **Eat at:** O Paquete for great sunset views. **Stay at:** [Villa Natura](https://villanaturaazores.com/en/) for a cozy atmosphere. **Tip:** Visit during **August** for the Maré de Augusto festival.

With nearly 2000km of coastline (if you include its islands), visitors in search of a beach in Portugal are spoiled for choice. The only hard part is choosing,…

Discover Portugal's Top 9 Beach Towns: A Coastal Paradise Awaits

# Severe Weather in Algarve

**At least four trees have fallen**, with three structures including advertising panels and fences affected, alongside floods in various areas, three landslides, and one fallen electricity pole due to strong winds across the Algarve this morning, according to the National Emergency and Civil Protection Authority (ANEPC).

## Key Incidents

The tree falls occurred mainly around **11 AM** in locations such as Ferreiras (Albufeira), Perdigão in the Rogil parish (Aljezur), Loulé, and Olhão. The structural damage was reported in Faro (two incidents) and Loulé.

In the **Conceição and Estoi** parishes (Faro), power outages were reported due to the collapse of parts of the electrical network.

## Landslides and Flooding

Landslides occurred in the **Union of Parishes of Querença, Tôr, and Benafim**, as well as in Barranco dos Pisões (Monchique) and in the Pomba area of Alferce (Monchique). Flooding was noted in **Altura**, in the coastal area of Castro Marim, along with many streams in the mountainous interior of the Algarve that are currently impassable due to increased water flow from the rain.

![Structural Damage in Faro](https://www.sulinformacao.pt/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/queda-de-estruturas-em-Faro_leila_2-768x1024.jpeg)
*Structural damage in Faro – Photo: Leila Leiras | Sul Informação*

The sea is also experiencing high agitation, especially on the **west coast** and the southern Algarve coast, as shown in the image near **Praia do Carvoeiro**.

![Stormy Weather on the South Coast](https://www.sulinformacao.pt/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/temporal-no-mar_costa-de-carvoeiro_er-1024x844.jpeg)
*Stormy weather on the Algarve south coast – Photo: Elisabete Rodrigues | Sul Informação*

## Nationwide Impact

Across the country, the Civil Protection had recorded a total of **375 incidents** due to the Jana depression by **8 AM today**, primarily related to tree falls, with a higher incidence in the Central regions and Greater Lisbon.

According to Commander Elísio Pereira from ANEPC, from **midnight Friday**, when a special prevention state began due to the Jana depression, until **8 AM today**, **90 incidents** were reported in Greater Lisbon and **67** in the Setúbal Peninsula, highlighting considerable occurrences in Coimbra and Viseu.

The incidents were mostly related to **tree falls due to wind**, with no casualties reported.

## Weather Warnings

The Institute of Sea and Atmosphere has issued **orange warnings** for six districts of the mainland and the Autonomous Region of Madeira due to maritime agitation and snowfall. Nine districts are under **yellow warnings** due to wind and precipitation, as well as maritime conditions.

Orange warnings are in effect for Faro, Beja, Lisbon, Setúbal, and the northern coast of Madeira, while Castelo Branco and Guarda are under orange warnings for snowfall.

Yellow warnings apply to Leiria, Coimbra, Viseu, Aveiro, Porto, Braga, Viana do Castelo, Bragança, and Vila Real due to wind and snow, along with maritime agitation in coastal areas.

For the mainland, the IPMA forecasts **showers**, sometimes heavy and accompanied by thunderstorms, with snowfall in the highlands of the North and Central regions, strong winds on the coast and in highlands, and a slight drop in temperature, particularly in maximums.

The worsening weather conditions have led ANEPC to alert the public about the potential for flooding and accidents.

*With Agency Lusa*

Pelo menos quatro quedas de árvores, três de estruturas (painéis de publicidade, vedações), cheias em alguns pontos, três derrocadas e uma queda de postes de eletricidade é o resultado de uma manhã de muito vento em todo o Algarve, segundo os dados…

Severe Weather Hits Algarve: Trees Down, Floods, and Structural Damage Reported

## International Women's Day 2025
**“For ALL women and girls: rights, equality, and empowerment”** - this is the theme set by the United Nations for International Women's Day 2025.

![International Women's Day](https://www.ammamagazine.com/images/noticias/2025/03/03_08_03.jpg)

### CCDR Algarve's Commitment
The **CCDR Algarve** employs **262 public service workers**, consisting of **99 men and 163 women**, with a leadership team of **19 men and 18 women**. This year marks the **80th anniversary of the United Nations** and the **30th anniversary of the Beijing Declaration** and Platform for Action.

### UN Report on Women's Rights
The latest **UN report**, titled *“Women’s Rights in Review: 30 Years After Beijing”*, highlights the progress made in gender equality policies since 1995, based on data from **159 governments**. It emphasizes that when women’s rights are fully upheld, families, communities, and economies thrive.

### Gender Statistics in Portugal
In Portugal, women represent the majority of the population and excel in education: out of every 10 people with higher education, approximately **6 are women**. They outperform men in completing degrees, master's, and doctoral programs, although men dominate in technical professional courses. Despite these advancements, **significant efforts** are still needed to achieve gender equality and meet the **2030 Sustainable Development Goals**.

### New Action Agenda
The UN report introduces the **Beijing+30 Action Agenda**, which aims to tackle outstanding challenges by focusing on:
- **Equal access to technology** and empowering women in AI and digital innovation.
- Investments in comprehensive social protection, universal healthcare, and robust education and care services.
- Eradicating all forms of violence against women and girls through well-funded community support programs.
- Ensuring equal decision-making power.
- Fully financing national plans on women, peace, and security while ensuring gender-sensitive humanitarian aid.
- Prioritizing women's rights in climate change adaptation and ensuring they benefit from green jobs.

### Challenges Remain
Despite progress in recent decades in the EU, gender-based **violence and stereotypes** persist. According to the **2024 Statistical Bulletin on Gender Equality in Portugal**, domestic violence predominantly affects women, with **7 out of 10 victims being female**. Employment rates show that men generally have a higher employment rate (6.1%), whereas women experience a higher unemployment rate (6.9%). In 2024, men still hold the majority in significant power and decision-making roles.

The UN report reveals that **almost a quarter of governments worldwide** reported setbacks in women's rights in 2024, with Secretary-General **António Guterres** urging collective action to uphold human rights and equality for all women and girls globally.

19 anos Ao Serviço do Desporto em Portugal

Empowering Women: Celebrating International Women's Day with Key Insights from CCDR Algarve

## A Unique Culinary Experience in Lisbon

**Boato**, the latest supper club by chef **Miguel Ângelo**, combines high gastronomy with social interaction in a secretive dining setting. Guests are invited to enjoy **10 exquisite dishes** without knowing who they will dine with or what they will eat until two days before the event.

![Chef Miguel Ângelo](https://bordalo.observador.pt/v2/q:60/rs:fill:940/c:1728:2000:nowe:555:0/plain/https://s3.observador.pt/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/25162539/francisco-pereira-boato12.jpg)

The unique concept emerged from Miguel's inspiration drawn from international supper clubs, and began in May of last year. The events take place in a renovated family home in Lisbon, which can accommodate up to **10 unfamiliar guests** who come together for a **10-course dining experience** reflective of Miguel's 17 years in the culinary world, including stints at prestigious restaurants.

## The Mystery of the Menu

Guests receive the location details and hints just **two days before dinner**, maintaining the element of surprise. Each meal is a blend of fine dining techniques and seasonal ingredients, designed to impress and intrigue diners. Miguel assures that the dishes could easily feature on high-end restaurant menus.

## Engaging Social Atmosphere

As the evening unfolds, Miguel encourages guests to mix and mingle, breaking down social barriers. The atmosphere is light and informal, with guests sharing stories and experiences, often discovering **common connections**.

## Culinary Highlights

The menu showcases a variety of dishes inspired by different cultures:
- **Braised mackerel with coriander oil** - a nod to Lisbon's summer traditions.
- **Shrimp croquettes** - a culinary twist from Miguel's time in Barcelona.
- **Pâté-filled pastries** - a surprise treat that challenges guests' perceptions.

![Dining Experience](https://bordalo.observador.pt/v2/q:60/rs:fill:1440/c:3000:2000:nowe:0:0/plain/https://s3.observador.pt/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/25162602/francisco-pereira-boato25.jpg)

The supper club not only offers a meal but also a chance for socialization, with interactive elements like conversation starters and post-dinner games to foster connections among guests.

## Pricing and Availability

The experience is priced at **€50 per person** at the chef's residence, while home events cost **€65**, maintaining the blind menu concept. The menu evolves with seasonal ingredients, ensuring a fresh experience each time.

Join Miguel at Boato for an unforgettable night where culinary excellence meets social adventure in the heart of Lisbon.

Um chef, 10 pessoas desconhecidas, 10 pratos e uma localização secreta. É no Boato, o mais recente supper club do chef Miguel Ângelo onde a alta gastronomia e a socialização se misturam. 

Discover the Secret Supper Club in Lisbon: 10 Dishes, 10 Strangers, One Chef!

### Severe Weather Conditions Expected

This Saturday, **heavy showers** are forecasted, sometimes accompanied by **thunderstorms**. In the **Northern and Central regions**, there will be **snowfall** in the higher altitudes, while coastal and elevated areas will experience **strong winds** and **high maritime agitation**. Additionally, a slight **drop in temperatures**, particularly in maximum values, is anticipated.

![Severe Weather in Portugal](https://asset.skoiy.com/tsfiqogiwkcugyug/ibjbup0qteo7.jpg?w=1852&q=80)
*Estela Silva/Lusa (archive)*

### Impact on Civil Protection

The **Civil Protection** agency has recorded **24 incidents** related to the severe weather conditions, predominantly affecting the **Lisbon and Vale do Tejo** areas. Authorities are urging residents to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions during this inclement weather.

Stay tuned for updates and ensure safety measures are in place during this time of adverse weather.

Para este sábado estão previstos aguaceiros, por vezes fortes e acompanhados de trovoada, queda de neve nas terras altas das regiões Norte e Centro, vento forte no litoral e terras altas, agitação marítima forte e pequena descida de temperatura, em especial da máxima

Severe Weather Alert: 24 Incidents Reported in Lisbon and Vale do Tejo This Saturday

### **Political Scrutiny Over Renovations**  
The **Socialist Party (PS)** has formally requested the **Lisbon city council president** for **clarifications** regarding the ongoing renovations at the **Montenegro family's apartments** located on **Travessa do Possolo**.  
  
### **Document Demands**  
In their inquiry, the PS has asked for **copies of all documentation** related to the **communication, licensing, inspection, and alterations** pertaining to the horizontal property title linked to these construction works.  
  
![Montenegro Family Apartments](https://asset.skoiy.com/tsfiqogiwkcugyug/b6pzxubouikz.jpg?w=1852&q=80)  
*Image Credit: António Cotrim/Lusa (archive)*

O PS requereu ao presidente da autarquia “esclarecimentos” e “cópias de toda a documentação” referente à “comunicação, licenciamento, fiscalização, vistoria e alterações” ao título de propriedade horizontal “relacionadas com as obras em execução na Travessa do Possolo”

Controversy in Lisbon: PS and BE Demand Clarity on Montenegro Family's Apartment Renovations

### Heavy Rainfall and Flood Risks in Lisbon

When intense and persistent rain falls, water must go somewhere. It rushes downstream, seeking paths of least resistance. In Lisbon, low-lying areas become particularly vulnerable, especially along the riverfront. Recent heavy rainfall events have caused chaos in the city, flooding streets, homes, and disrupting public transport.

**Alcântara and Algés** are among the worst affected areas, alongside other neighborhoods such as **Baixa**, **Martim Moniz**, and **Benfica**. These areas face significant risks due to urbanization and the heavy impermeabilization of land, which has compromised the natural drainage capacity.

![Flooding in Lisbon](https://i0.wp.com/amensagem.pt/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/cheiasconstrucao-8508.jpg?resize=780%2C520&amp;quality=89&amp;ssl=1)

### Urbanization Compromising Natural Drainage

Urban development, particularly in flood-prone river basins, has led to faster runoff and reduced infiltration, increasing the likelihood of flooding during heavy rains. **José Luís Zêzere**, a geography expert, criticizes the continuous construction in vulnerable flood zones, warning that current infrastructure cannot handle the increased water flow.

### Ongoing Construction Despite Risks

Despite the dangers, significant construction projects continue in areas like Alcântara and Algés, including new hospitals and residential buildings. For example, the **CUF Tejo Hospital**, opened in 2020, is situated in a flood-prone area, raising concerns about future flooding impacts on essential services. 

![CUF Tejo Hospital](https://i0.wp.com/amensagem.pt/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/cheiasconstrucao-8458.jpg?resize=780%2C520&amp;quality=89&amp;ssl=1)

### Measures for Flood Prevention

To mitigate future flooding, Lisbon's drainage capacity must be enhanced. The **Lisbon General Drainage Plan** aims to improve water management with two major tunnels designed to alleviate pressure on local drainage systems. These tunnels will redirect rainwater from upstream areas before it reaches already burdened urban zones.

![Drainage Tunnel](https://i0.wp.com/amensagem.pt/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/Tunel-Monsanto.jpg?resize=780%2C485&amp;quality=89&amp;ssl=1)

### Call for Better Urban Planning

Experts advocate for stricter regulations regarding construction in flood-prone areas and the implementation of permeable surfaces in urban design to enhance rainwater infiltration. A new **Municipal Master Plan** (PDM) is also under consideration to address these pressing environmental challenges. 

### Conclusion

Lisbon's ongoing struggle with flooding highlights the urgent need for effective urban planning that prioritizes sustainability and safety in the face of climate change.

Em dias de muita chuva, para evitar cheias, os túneis do Plano de Drenagem vão ajudar até ao final da década, mas há outras intervenções que podem fazer a diferença.

Portugal Takes Bold Steps to Combat Obesity: New Health Measures Unveiled

Summary:

New Health Measures by DGS

The Impact of Obesity

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