a guide for visiting researchers - the Instituto Gulbenkian de Ciência ...

CONTENTSTHE INSTITUTO GULBENKIAN DE CIÊNCIA(IGC)Rua da Quinta Grande 6, 2780-156 OeirasTelephone: + 351-21-4407900Fax: + 351-21-4407970E-mail: info@igc.gulbenkian.ptWeb: http://www.igc.gulbenkian.ptWHO WE ARE 7ooDirectorDeputy DirectorUNITS AND SERVICES 7ooooooooCell Imaging UnitGenomics UnitTransgenics UnitBioinformatics UnitInformatics UnitTeaching UnitAnimal FacilityLibraryIGC – GENERAL INFORMATION 11ooooooooooRegistrationGeneral secretariatDeclarationsE-mail account and other informatics servicesIGC IntranetTravel and accommodation arrangementsInsurancesLibraryMaintenance of scientific equipmentGeneral maintenanceIGC- PRACTICAL INFORMATION 13oooooTelephonesFaxesPhotocopiesCafeteriaCar parkingIGC- OTHER INFORMATION 14oRenewal of visas3

ooooApplications to fellowships and grantsIGC guest and internal seminarsValuablesChildrenGETTING TO THE IGC 15ooooArrival by airArrival by trainArrival by roadMapsGENERAL GUIDE FOR VISITORSTHIS IS PORTUGAL 19oooooooFast factsGeographyClimateHistoryCultureLanguageReligionTHE TOWN OF LISBON 21PLANNING YOUR STAY IN PORTUGAL 21ooooooPassport and visaVaccinationsResidence permit and work permitInsurancesAccommodationCustomsTRANSFERRING MONEY 22oOpening a bank accountINCOME TAXES 23oGeneral overviewPENSIONS 23ACCOMODATION 23oooAverage costsRent contractsHouse-buying4

ooExtra chargesProperty taxHEALTH 24ooooooStructureDoctorsHospitalsE-formsPrivate medical and dental care in the IGC neighbourhoodPharmacies and chemistsSCHOOL FOR THE CHILDREN 26oooGeneral overviewKindergartenInternational schoolsPRIVATE LIFE 27ooBirthMarriagePUBLIC AND PRIVATE TRANSPORT 28oooooUrban and public transportTaxisTrainsFlightsDriving in PortugalCOMMUNICATIONS 30oooPost officeTelephoneTelevisionSHOPPING 30oooShopping hoursDepartment stores, shopping malls and supermarketsMarketsLEISURE TIME ACTIVITIES 31ooooooooooWalking tours in LisbonMuseumsOceanárioClassical music, opera & balletCinemasGolfTennisSwimmingSpectator sportDisco & clubs5

GOOD TO KNOW 33o Timeo Electricityo Weights & measureso Tippingo No smokingo Toiletso National public holidayso In case of emergency – Dial 112The purpose of this booklet is twofold: (1) to be a guide when you are planning and preparing togo to the IGC and (2) to be a practical handbook when you have arrive and settled here.You will certainly meet aspects of life in Portugal not covered in this guide, but we hope that itwill be useful when you feel a little lost among the many rules and details coming in your waywhile you are planning your stay and after you have settled in Portugal. Although every efforthas been made to ensure that the information is correct, changes may occur after publication.If you would like to have further assistance or need any kind of information, you can alwayscontact the IGC Direction Secretariat.6

THE INSTITUTO GULBENKIAN DE CIÊNCIAWHO WE AREThe Instituto Gulbenkian de Ciência (IGC) was founded and is supported by the FundaçãoCalouste Gulbenkian (FCG) to carry on biomedical research and education.The Institute's scientific interests are focused on the genetic basis of development and evolutionof complex systems, privileging organism-centred approaches in experimental models. The IGCis located in the campus of Oeiras, a suburb west of Lisbon. The campus includes other basicand applied research institutions in biology, biotechnology and chemistry (the Institute forChemical and Biological Technology – ITQB of the New University of Lisbon, the Institute forExperimental Biology and Technology - IBET, and the National Agronomical Station – EAN, ofthe Ministry for Agriculture) with complementary interests and competencies: protein structureand design, synthesis and theory of chemicals with biological interest, molecular microbiology,plant biotechnology, fermentation, downstream processing, etc).DIRECTORAntónio CoutinhoDEPUTY DIRECTORJosé Mário LeiteJosé Mário Leite is responsible for all matters concerning financial administration, generalmaintenance and telephone communications.Direction Secretariat:Ana Paula Pires (Ext. 201) and Greta Martins (Ext. 643)UNITS AND SERVICESCELL IMAGING UNITHeads of Unit:José FeijóResearch Assistants:Rosa Maria Santos (Monoclonal Antibody Production, Labelling)Nuno Moreno (Confocal microscopy, Image Analysis)Gabriel Martins (Confocal microscopy, Image Analysis)Rui Gardner (Flowcytometry)The Cell Imaging Unit provides cell and tissue imaging facilities, as well as flowcytometry andhistology services. The Unit also provides services in antibody purification and labelling and7

hybridoma tissue culture. The usage of most of the equipment is in self-service, however,technical assistance is provided where necessary.The following services are available:Flowcytometry ServiceThe Flowcytometry Service is equipped with the following instruments:• Moflo HighSpeed 8 Color 3 Laser Cell sorter• FacsAria HighSpeed Cell Sorter• FACSCalibur 4C• FACScan 3CImaging ServiceThe Imaging Service is equipped with the following instruments:• Jeol 100CX Transmission Electron Microscope• Bio-Rad MRC 1024 Confocal and MultiPhoton Microscope• Zeiss LSM510/Meta• Leica SP5 Confocal Microscope• Leica DMRA2 Fluorescent Microscope with a Photometrics SNAP HQ Cooled CCDCamera and Metamorph Imaging Software• Two conventional (Olympus, Leitz) Fluorescent Microscopes• Molecular Dynamics PhosphoImager• Olympus DIC/phasecontrast Microscope• PowerMac G4 Image Analysis Worstations• Roche Light Cycler• Varian Spectofluorimeter• Antibody Purification and Labelling System and hybridoma Tissue CultureHISTOLOGY UNITHead of Unit:Miguel SoaresResearch Assistant:Marisa PardalThe Histology Service provides assistance to scientists in processing tissue samples for routinehistochemical and in situ hybridization procedures at both the light and electron microscopicallevels.GENOMICS UNITHead of Unit:Carlos Penha GonçalvesResearch AssitantsIsabel Marques (Lab manager)Julia Lobato (Gene expression)Paulo Almeida (Bioinformatics)João Costa (Genotyping)8

The Genomics Unit provides technological support in three areas:The Genotyping Service, offers Sequenom MALDI-TOF technology allowing SNP genotypingassays with up to twenty eight SNPs assayed simultaneously. Taqman technology is availablefor SNP genotyping and Real-Time PCR.The Gene Expression Service, offers high-density array technology for gene expression andgenome-wide SNP genotyping using the latest Affimetrix Scanning Station.DNA Sequencing, offers DNA sequencing and fragment analysis using both multi-capillary andslab-gel electrophoresis.TRANSGENICS UNITHead of Unit:Moises MalloTechnician:Ana Nóvoa (Microinjection)The Trangenics Unit provides transgenic services to the research staff. Both, classictransgenics, pronuclear microinjection, and gene targeting, blastocyst injection, are offered as aservice. The unit also offers the cryopreservation of embryos for long term storage.BIOINFORMATICS UNITHead of Unit:José LealScientific Staff:Pedro FernandesAna Sofia OliveiraResearch Assitants:Isabel MarquesThe Bioinformatics Unit provides the following services:• Direct user support in biological data analysis using computational methods.• Conduct research and development in bioinformatics, in particular in data-flows, datawarehousing and data analysis.• Develop and maintain an infra-structure for high performance bio-computing.• Support the IGC Graduate Programmes.Hosts for PEN (Portuguese node of the European Molecular Biology network – EMBnet) since1992.INFORMATICS UNITHead of Unit:João SousaSystems Administrator:João Garcia9

Technicians:Ana Maya (Software)Manuel Carvalho (Hardware)The Informatics Unit manages infra-structural computing, networking and telecommunicationsfacilities in the IGC.TEACHING UNITSecretary:Manuela Cordeiro (Ext. 210)Post-graduate education has always been a strong valence of the IGC, and this tradition hasbeen maintained through the establishment of the In-House PhD Programme (Director:Henrique Teotónio), the PhD Programme in Computational Biology (Director: Jorge Carneiro),the Gulbenkian/Champalimaud PhD Programme in Neuroscience (Director: Zachary Mainen)and the Gulbenkian Biology Courses (our international advance-course programme). The IGCalso organizes several other international courses, notably in the area of bioinformatics as wellas workshops. Teaching activities at the IGC are also directed at the teaching of biology insecondary schools and include initiatives that aim at a better public understanding of science.ANIMAL FACILITYHead of Unit:Jocelyne DemengeotSecretary:Ana Licia Pires (Ext. 507)The animal facility is a modern SPF (specific pathogen free) breeding facility (30.000 mice). Thefacility maintains more than 100 different mouse strains, inbred, natural mutants, transgenics,knock-outs and congenics. The facility also has one axenic (germ-free) mouse colony andoffers, as a service, the rederivation of animals to SPF conditions. The animal facility also hostsZebrafish (approximately 45 wild type and mutant lines) that are available to the scientific stafffor research purposes.LIBRARYLibrarian:Margarida Meira (Ext. 506)The IGC Library houses a collection of 30 years of holdings of journals in the bio-medical area.Currently, it provides local access to more than 16.800 titles.10

IGC - GENERAL INFORMATIONREGISTRATIONAny person wishing to spend a training period at the IGC must apply personally to the Directorof the IGC, using the application form intended for this purpose that can be found on ourwebsite: http://www.igc.gulbenkian.pt. This application must be received at least one monthbefore the beginning of the training period.First day at the IGCOn the first day of your stay at the IGC you should contact Ana Paula Pires (Ext. 201).She will provide you with the necessary forms that need completing to obtain the IGC Identitycard, authorization for car parking, e-mail account and access to the Library.Any person spending a training period at the IGC pledges to abide by the regulations enforcedat the IGC, pertaining especially to the organization of work, to general discipline, and tohygiene and safety.DECLARATIONSTo obtain a letter concerning the IGC and your work here, please contact Jorge Costa Ext. 248.E-MAIL ACCOUNT AND OTHER INFORMATICS SERVICESTo open an e-mail account and for any other information regarding IGC informatics servicesplease contact Ana Maya (Ext. 213) or Manuel Carvalho (Ext. 249).IGC INTRANETAna Maya (Ext. 213) will give you a password that will also allow you access to the IGC Intranet(at our website: http://www.igc.gulbenkian.pt for IGC users only) where you will find furtherinformation on:• Telephones and e-mails list• List of secretarial support• Information on fellowships• Rules on IGC Fellowships• Rules on the IGC internal PhD Programme• Safety Manuals• Risk of fire• Schedule of Telephone AttendanceTRAVEL AND ACCOMMODATION ARRANGEMENTSTravelLogistics for any travel abroad and hotel arrangements while staying at the IGC will be dealtwith by Greta Martins (Ext. 643).Travel permissionAccording to operational rules, permission to travel (in Portugal or abroad) is to be granted bythe IGC Director if travel expenses are to be charged to accounts managed by the IGC/FCG.11

This permission must be requested at least one week before travelling. Failure to complywith this rule implies absence of travel insurance and may result in our inability to refund theexpenses involved.INSURANCESAccidentsThe IGC has an insurance for work accidents occurring within the premises. This insurance isfor everybody working at the institute, including short-term visitors. In case of accident pleaseinform Jorge Costa and the Direction of the Institute, as soon as possible, in order to notify theInsurance Company. Details regarding this insurance on accidents at work can be obtainedfrom Jorge Costa (Ext. 248).TravelThe IGC offers a travel insurance to all researchers, students and technicians (non-permanentstaff of the FCG) who travel ABROAD to participate in congresses, meetings, courses ortraining, IN REPRESENTATION OF THE IGC.It is stressed that any such travel abroad should be previously authorised by the Director. Tothis end, the researcher/students/technician, should draw up a proposal "proposta" with thefollowing indications:• Name of congress, meeting, course or traineeship• Place of the congress, meeting , course or traineeship• Title of the presentation and authors of the work (include a photocopy of the abstract)• Dates of departure and arrival in PortugalProposals for students and technicians must also include a written document from the HeadResearcher on the reason for travel.All proposals must be handed in to Jorge Costa (Ext. 248) AT LEAST ONE WEEK BEFORETRAVELLING in order to be authorised by the IGC Director. Failure to comply with these ruleswill imply that the researcher/student/technician will travel without insurance and, consequentlywill not be refunded by the insurance company in case of illness or accident abroad.LIBRARYLibrarian: Margarida Meira (Ext. 506)Library service hours are from 9.30 a.m. to 5.00 p.m., Monday to Friday.The IGC Library is situated on the first floor of building to the right of the main entrance and isavailable for references purposes. To gain access to the Library you have to registeryourself as an IGC Library user. Upon the issue of your IGC Library reader number you willreceive a card that allows access to the local photocopying machines for personal use only.This card is rechargeable at the Economato and you are required to return it upon suspensionof your activity at the IGC.MAINTENANCE OF SCIENTIFIC EQUIPMENTFor maintenance or repair of scientific equipment, please contact Ana Homem, Ext. 207.12

GENERAL MAINTENANCEFor general and electrical works, air conditioning and cold rooms and repairs contact Mr. Sousa(Ext. 250), for cleaning, contact Ms. Gomes (Ext. 262).IGC - PRACTICAL INFORMATIONTELEPHONESThe Telephone Operator, Teresa Sousa (Ext 9 or 355 / IGC general phone Nº. 21 4407900) ison duty from 9.00 a.m. to 5.00 p.m., Monday to Friday. When she is off duty, security staff (Ext.222) will answer phone calls.To access an external line please dial 0. For international long-distance calls, after the 0 dial 00followed by the country code.You can receive external calls and messages directly on your phone extension, at all times,without going through the Telephone Operator. For example, if your phone extension is 237,your direct number, for external calls, is 4407937. Messages will also be accepted at 214407937 in a personal voice mailbox.If you have technical problems with your telephone, please contact Manuel Carvalho (Ext. 249).There is a card-operated telephone for outgoing calls in the Main Hall of the IGC. Cards can beobtained from any tobacconist.FAXESFaxes can be sent or received through the telephone operator (Fax Nº. 21 4407970) in the MainHall of the IGC. If you receive a fax, you will be notified by the telephone operator to pick it up.PHOTOCOPIESThere is a self-service photocopying machine on every floor of the main building and four cardoperatedphotocopying machines in the library. This card will be given to you by Ana PaulaPires (Ext. 201) when you register at the IGC.CAFETERIAThere is a cafeteria at the IGC where you can have breakfast, lunch or a snack (building, left tothe main entrance of the Institute). It opens from 8.00 a.m. to 6.00 p.m., Monday to Friday. Inthis cafeteria you can also find coin-operated machines that provide snacks and cold and hotdrinks 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.In the Library building, on the ground floor, another cafeteria is located where you can havelunch or a snack. This is open from 9.00 a.m. to 6.00 p.m., Monday to Friday.CAR PARKINGOwing to the shortage of space, the Main Car Park (main entrance of IGC) is reserved for IGCpermanent staff and short-term visitors (maximum 1 day). However, cars may be parked, afterreceiving due authorisation from the Direction (see Jorge Costa Ext. 248), in the North CarPark, at the back of the cafeteria of the IGC.13

IGC - OTHER INFORMATIONRENEWAL OF VISASIf you need to renew your visa, please contact Ana Paula Pires (Ext. 201).APPLICATIONS TO FELLOWSHIPS AND GRANTSFor any administrative support regarding fellowships or grants applications please contactSheila Vidal (Ext. 202).IGC GUEST AND INTERNAL SEMINARSAlmost every week the IGC organizes a Guest and/or an Internal Seminar. These seminars areannounced, in due time, on the Board in the main entrance of the Institute. Internal Seminarsare generally held on Tuesdays at 12.00 p.m. and Guest Seminars on Fridays at 12.00 p.m.VALUABLESYou are strongly advised to keep your money and valuables with you AT ALL TIMES. The IGCcannot accept responsibility for your property and although the security staff keeps a closewatch, a number of losses have occurred.CHILDRENFor safety reasons children are not allowed on the IGC premises. The IGC cannot accept anyresponsibility for any accident that could occur with children within the premises.14

GETTING TO THE IGCARRIVAL BY AIRTaxisOn arrival at the Lisbon airport, go to the visitors and Convention Bureau where there is a TaxiVoucher Service from where you can get a Taxi without queuing. Bus / TrainThere is a shuttle bus service from Lisbon airport to railway station CAIS DO SODRÉ From Caisdo Sodré all trains stop at Oeiras, where the IGC is located.Instructions to get from Oeiras train station to the IGC: get out of the station on the side where agas station (GALP) is located. Keeping to the right, cross over this gas station, and walk downthe road until arrival at a set of traffic lights. Here, turn left again, cross over the pedestriancrossing and the IGC is the fenced-in area immediately after a pink house on the corner (thisroute takes around 3 minutes).ARRIVAL BY TRAINThe Sud-Express and the Lusitânia hotel-train provide the main international connections,arriving / departing from Lisbon and Porto.ARRIVAL BY ROADIt is possible to enter Portugal by road at several points along its border with Spain.15

MAPS16

GENERAL GUIDE FOR VISITORSTHIS IS PORTUGALFAST FACTSFull country name: PortugalArea: 92,389 sq km (35,672 sq mi)Population: 10 millionCapital city: Lisbon (pop 535,740)People: 99% Portuguese, 1% AfricanLanguage: PortugueseReligion: 97% Roman Catholic, 2% Protestant, 1% otherGovernment: Parliamentary democracyMember of EU: YesGEOGRAPHYPortugal lies immediately west of Spain, and is buffeted along its southern coast by the AtlanticOcean. To its west and southwest lie the islands of the Azores and Madeira, far out in theAtlantic. It is one of Europe's smallest countries, measuring 560km (350mi) north to south and apaltry 220km (135mi) from east to west. The northern and central regions are heavily populatedand characterised by rivers, valleys, forests and mountains - the highest range is the Serra daEstrela, peaking at Torre (1993m/6540ft). The south is less populated and, apart from the rockybackdrop of the Algarve, much flatter and drier.The lush landscape of the north is rich viticultural country but also features corn, potato and rye.The central and southern regions are less green, yet they support corn oaks, olive groves,vineyards, and orange and fig trees, and are a delight in spring when the almond blossoms arein full bloom.CLIMATEPortugal's climate is temperate. The country is generally warm from April to October, thoughsomewhat less so in the north, while the southern region of Algarve can experienceuncomfortably hot temperatures in midsummer. During winter, the north receives plenty of rainand temperatures can be chilly. Snowfall is common in the mountains, particularly the Serra daEstrela range.19

HISTORYPortugal's history goes back to the Celts, who settled the Iberian Peninsula around 700 BC. Theregion soon attracted a succession of peoples and was colonised by the Phoenicians, Greeks,Romans and Visigoths. In the 8th century, the Moors crossed the Strait of Gibraltar andcommenced a long occupation that introduced their culture, architecture and agriculturaltechniques to Portugal. But resistance to the Moors grew and they were finally ejected duringthe 13th century.In the 15th century, Portugal entered a phase of overseas expansion due to the efforts of PrinceHenry the Navigator. Sailors set off to discover new trade routes and helped create anenormous empire that, at its peak, extended to India, the Far East, Brazil and Africa. This periodmarked the apogee of Portuguese power and wealth, but it faded towards the end of the 16thcentury when Spain's Felipe II claimed the throne. Although Spanish rule lasted only a fewdecades, the momentum of the empire declined over the following centuries.At the close of the 18th century Napoleon sent expeditionary forces to invade Portugal but theywere forced back by the troops of the Anglo-Portuguese alliance. During the 19th century theeconomy faltered and republicanism took hold. National turmoil led to the abolition of themonarchy in 1910 and the founding of a democratic republic.Portugal's democratic phase lasted until 1926, when a military coup ushered in a long period ofdictatorship under António de Oliveira Salazar. His reign came to an end in 1968 when hesustained brain damage after falling off a chair. Anachronistic attempts to hold onto colonies inthe face of nationalist independence movements resulted in costly wars in Africa and led to theRevolution of the Carnations, a bloodless military coup on 25 April 1974.During the 1970s and early 1980s, Portugal underwent some painful adjustments: the politicalclimate vacillated between right and left, and the economy suffered from wrangles betweengovernment and private ownership. The granting of independence to Portugal's African coloniesin 1974-75 resulted in a flood of over 500,000 refugees into the country. Entry into the EuropeanCommunity (EC) in 1986 restored some measure of stability, which was buttressed by theacceptance of Portugal as a full member of the European Monetary Union in 1999.CULTUREPortugal's architecture is renowned for its Moorish and surrealist flourishes, culminating in thedevelopment during the 16th century of the Manueline style characterised by the extravagantuse of twists, turns, spirals and nautical themes for decoration. The nation's best-known musicalform is the melancholic fado (songs believed to have originated from the pinings of 16th-centurysailors), while traditional folk dancing remains popular in rural towns. The most striking craft isthe making of decorative tiles known as azulejos, a technique the Portuguese learnt from theMoors. Portugal's rich literary tradition also has its origins in the 16th century, with thepublication of works by the dramatist Gil Vicente and the poet Luís de Camões. Arguably thecountry's finest poet and dramatist to emerge in the 20th century is Fernando Pessoa.Portuguese food is cheap, delicious and served in gut-expanding portions. Classic Portuguesemeals include sardinhas assadas (charcoal-grilled sardines), pastéis de bacalhau (codfishcakes) and caldo verde (a soup of cabbage and potatoes). Seafood dishes such as linguadogrelhado (grilled sole) and bife de atúm (tuna steak) are appetising staples. Meals can bewashed down with Portugal's good-quality wines (vinhos) or port - the drink synonymous withPortugal.LANGUAGEPortuguese is the main language in Portugal and it is spoken by nearly 190 million of peopleworldwide. While local residents genuinely appreciate any attempt by visitors to speakPortuguese, about half of the Portuguese population has a working knowledge of English.20

RELIGIONAs freedom of religion is included in the constitution there is no state religion in Portugal, butRoman Catholicism is the dominant faith, adhered to by roughly 95% of Portuguese.THE TOWN OF LISBONLisbon (Lisboa), the country's capital, stands breezily on the banks of the Rio Tejo. The city'slow skyline, unpretentious atmosphere and pleasant blend of architectural styles conspire tomake it a favourite with many visitors. Orientation is fairly straightforward - apart from the puffrequired to negotiate the hills - with most of the daily activity centred in the lower part of the city.A clear choice for Lisbon's finest attraction is the Mosteiro dos Jerónimos. Construction beganabout 1502 and was completed towards the end of the century. It survived a great earthquake in1755, and is today the principal remnant of Manueline architecture found in the city. Nearby isthe Torre de Belém, a Manueline-style tower which stands in the Rio Tejo, and is probably themost photographed monument in Portugal.Lisbon has a number of attractive museums, including the Museu Nacional do Azulejo, whichcontains superb displays of decorative tiles; the Museu Nacional de Arte Antiga, which housesthe national collection of works by Portuguese painters; and the immense Museu CalousteGulbenkian, considered the finest museum in Portugal, with exhibits of paintings, sculptures,carpets, coins and ceramics from around the world.Other places of interest are the districts of Baixa and Alfama. Here you'll find some of the city'soldest and most rewarding sights: anarchic cobbled streets, squares and alleys; markets andcraftspeople; and colourful buildings and brooding castles.Lisbon has a wide range of budget accommodation and cheap restaurants, mostly found in thecentral parts of the city. Lisbon's nightlife is boisterous, and includes drinking in bars, raving atdiscos, bopping to jazz and African rhythms or puzzling over fado. Local soccer matches andbullfights are the biggest thrills.PLANNING YOUR STAY IN PORTUGALPASSPORT AND VISAA valid passport is necessary when visiting Portugal. For EU citizens, it is sufficient with an IDcard provided the citizenship is stated on the card. Nationals of Canada, New Zealand and theUSA can stay for up to 90 days in any half-year without a visa. Citizens of many countries,notably in Eastern Europe, Africa, Asia and Australia need a visa in order to be able to enterPortugal unless they are the spouse or child of EU citizens. Information is available atPortuguese Embassies or Consulates.VACCINATIONSOn entry into Portugal, there is generally no vaccination requirement. Temporary regulationsmay sometimes apply to travellers from specific countries.21

Personal cheques from abroad are not cashed at Portuguese banks. Though travellers chequesare easily exchanged, and at rates about 1% better than for cash, they are very poor value inPortugal because additional fees are so high - sometimes up to 13% for a US$100 cheque. Theexception is American Express travellers cheques, which can be exchanged commission-freewith AmEx agents. Most credit cards, including American Express, Diner's Club, Eurocard,MasterCard and Visa are widely accepted. Automated Teller Machines (ATMs), calledMultibanco, are found in all towns of any size where you can withdraw cash from credit anddebit accounts. These automated teller machines are generally tied to international networks,such as Cirrus and Plus.INCOME TAXESGENERAL OVERVIEWA percentage of your personal income is deducted each month for tax and other purposes("retenção na fonte") and you are obliged to present a final statement of earnings andcontributions at the end of each year (Income tax is only for work contracts and not forfellowships). The percentage that is deducted by your employer varies according to your incomeand your family status (single, married, with children, etc).This annual assessment must be made by the end of February or the middle of April, if you areself-employed.For more information on taxes in Portugal consult the following website:- http://europa.eu.int/scadplus/citizens/en/inter.htmPENSIONSUnder EU regulations if you work in two or more EU countries you will be able to combine statepension contributions paid in each state in order to qualify for a state pension. For moreinformation it is advisable to contact the Ministry of Social Security in your own country beforeyou leave for Portugal.The legal retirement age in Portugal is 65 for men and 65 for women (it is fixed a transitoryperiod of 6 years for this purpose, which increases 6 months every year). The qualifying periodis 15 years of paid or credited contributions. Old-age pensions are paid to all insured employeesfor each calendar year which is covered by paid contributions.ACCOMMODATIONIt is necessary to have accommodation available when you arrive in Oeiras. Note thatapartments are in high demand and must be reserved well in advanceAVERAGE COSTSDue to the shortage of accommodation in the large cities and towns (Lisbon, Porto and Algarve)rents are rather expensive: for example, 1-2 bedroom apartments range from 500 Euros to 100023

Euros per month, while 4 bedroom apartments range from 1300 Euros to 1500 Euros permonth.Unfurnished apartments are not necessarily cheaper than furnished apartments.The purchase price of a house in Lisbon of 100 m² is between 150.000 and 300.000 Euros.RENT CONTRACTSThe minimum rental contract is usually 6 months. Accommodation can either be furnished orunfurnished. However, this does not affect the price. If you are planning to stay for a longerperiod, it may be cheaper and easier to buy accommodation instead of renting accommodation,which is expensive and scarce.HOUSE-BUYINGMortgages can be arranged through banks. They vary according to the financial situation of themortgagee and the location of the property. There are also variations between the differentbanks. Real estate acquisition tax normally amounts to 10 % of the purchase price. (You willneed a Portuguese fiscal number "cartão de contribuinte" - to buy property, which you musthave in any case for your income tax). A notary takes care of the whole house-buyingtransaction (escritura). In general, a temporary purchase contract (contrato promessa decompra e venda) will be signed before the "escritura" is finalised.EXTRA CHARGESWater is usually paid for on a monthly basis.Mains gas is only available in Lisbon, bottled gas is widely used elsewhere.PROPERTY TAXThere is a local municipal tax (Contribuição Autárquica - CA) based on the value of theproperty, the desirability of the location and the standards of local services. The value of this taxranges from 0,7% to 1.3%.HEALTHSTRUCTUREThe national health service is run by the "Ministério de Saúde" (Ministry of Health).Contributions to the national health system are deducted directly from your pay. All personscovered by the general social security scheme are covered for health care.As soon as you take up employment a "Livrete de Assistência Médica" will be automaticallyissued to you by the state health centres (Centro de Saúde) or the regional centres(Administracões Regionais de Saúde) or directly from your employer.Regional social security offices (Centros Regionais de Segurança Social - CRSS) or the specialinformation department for foreign nationals in Lisbon (Departamento de RelaçõesInternacionais e Convenções da Segurança Social) may be contacted for further information.Free emergency treatment is available to visitors/employment seekers but you shouldremember to bring appropriate E-forms with you.24

DOCTORSThere is a free choice of doctors (general practitioners as well as specialists).No fees have to be paid for doctors working either in health centres (Centro de Saúde) or underagreement between the Order of Medical Practitioners and the Ministry of Health.Treatment by dentists is given on the same basis as medical treatment, that is, free of chargewhen the dentist is working in a health centre or is on the Ministry of Health list.HOSPITALSHospital treatment within the health service (public hospitals and institutions approved by theMinistry of Health) is free (subject only to a flat-rate charge) and there is free choice amongthem. Private hospitals and clinics may be paid for by the national health service if publichospitals cannot provide the required treatment within a period of 3 months.In a public hospital there are no charges for a public ward or for a private room, whenrecommended by the doctor. If the private room is freely chosen, charges are payable in full.E-FORMS"E-forms" are used to speed up the process of claiming social security benefits when you goabroad. They are standardized throughout the Union and can be obtained from the socialsecurity institutions of the country in which you are insured.When you arrive in another country, you should present the appropriate forms to the socialsecurity institution in order to speed up your claim for benefits. Generally, it is also useful tobring your passport or valid identity card for identification purposes, a copy of your birthcertificate and copies of any other appropriate documents such as proof of marriage or a child'sbirth certificate.To prove you are covered in your own country, Form E 111 must be carried. You are thenentitled to urgent treatment for accident or unexpected illness. This only covers temporary stayswith a maximum of 1 year (or, exceptionally, 2 years if on secondment).For more information concerning “E-forms” consult the following website:- http://europa.eu.int/scadplus/citizens/en/pt/1100.htmPRIVATE MEDICAL AND DENTAL CARE IN THE IGC NEIGHBOURHOODYou can ask one of the Secretaries of the General secretariat to book you an appointment for aGP or a specialist (English speaking doctors) at the following Private General Clinics:Clínica EuropaRua de Catembe, 107, 2775 CarcavelosTel. 21 4569780/ 21 4578946Opens from 8.30 a.m. to 7.00 p.m., Monday to Friday and Saturday from 9.00 a.m. to 1.00 p.m.After normal working hours there is a permanent on-call service (GP, Pediatrician, Dental careand home visits) you will be directed to an answering machine which will give you the telephonenumber of the Doctors on duty).25

Clínica Médica Internacional de CascaisRua do Regimento 19, nº. 67-2ºTel. 21 484 53 17Opens from 9.00 a.m. to 1.00 p.m. and from 2.00 p.m. to 7.00 p.m., Monday to Friday. Closedon weekends. There is a 24-hour service, 7 days a week (GP and specialists, home visits).Note (1): An appointment for the GP, at the private clinics, will cost approximately 50 Euros.Note (2): A Personal Health Insurance Plan will cost you approximately 500 Euros/year.PHARMACIES OR CHEMISTSMedical prescriptions should be taken to a pharmacy. You find them under the headingFARMÁCIA. Most of them open from 9.00 a.m. to 1.00 p.m. and 3.00 p.m. to 7.00 p.m. Mondayto Friday and Saturday morning, from 9.00 a.m. to 1.00 p.m. To find a 24 hours open pharmacy,check the list posted on the door of a closed one or check a portuguese daily newspaper.Near the IGC, there is a pharmacy situated in front of the Oeiras Railway Station (2 minuteswalk).For homeopathic remedies, you could try Farmácia Homeopática Santa Justa at Rua SantaJusta 6, in Lisbon.SCHOOL FOR THE CHILDRENGENERAL OVERVIEWThe political body responsible for the education system is Ministério da Educação (Ministry ofEducation).Pre-school education is not compulsory and is dedicated to children aged between 3 and 6years. It exists in the public and in the private sector although the private sector schools aremore expensive.Elementary education is universal and compulsory and comprises 3 sequential cycles over atotal of 9 years (from 6 years until 15 years of age). Also at this level, it is possible to choosebetween the public schools (free) and private ones. In the private sector, international schoolsare also available.Secondary education is organised in two different sectors: one covers normal secondary schooleducation and the others are the so-called professional schools. Both types of schooling canlead to the qualifications necessary for entrance to university, although generally speaking, theprofessional schools are much more oriented towards qualifications for working life.In higher education, it is possible to choose between the universities (courses of between 4 and6 years in length) and polytechnics, with courses more oriented to professional working life.For more information on the education system in Portugal consult the following websites:- http://europa.eu.int/scadplus/citizens/en/inter.htm- http://www.ul.pt/Guia_est_estrangeiro/ingles.htm26

KINDERGARTENPre-school education is optional. It is provided in "Jardins de Infancia" (nursery schools) by awide variety of State organisations, by charitable institutions, by private and cooperativeschools, and by unions and other organisations.INTERNATIONAL SCHOOLSInternational schools are available in Lisbon but they are very expensive and the numbers arevery restricted. For more information on international schools consult the following websites:- http://europa.eu.int/scadplus/citizens/en/pt/107930.htm- http://www.britishcouncilpt.org/education/ischools.htm- http://www.ealisboa.com/pt/kontakt.htmPRIVATE LIFEBIRTHThe registration of a child should be made in the 20 days after the birth in the Registration office(Conservatória do Registo Civil), preferably in the commune in which the birth has occurred; itis, however, possible to register at any Office and the competent services arrange for thetransfer to the correct one. The registration can be made by either of the parents or by both.The name chosen for the child should be in Portuguese or adapted to it, unless one of theparents is not Portuguese (in this case foreign names can be used).The parents should bring their identity cards and it is also advisable to bring also the healthbulletin of the child.MARRIAGEIt is possible to have two types of marriage: the catholic and the civil. The procedures to takeinto account are the same for both types. If a catholic marriage is chosen, it is necessary tocontact the church. The current restrictions to marriage are: it is only possible for persons ofdifferent sexes and the minimum age to marry is 16 years old, subject to parents' authorisation.Other restrictions relate to familial relations and the time period between divorce andremarriage.To start the marriage process, it is necessary to go to a Registration Office (Conservatória doRegisto Civil) in which one of the parties concerned lives, with the following documents:• birth certificate ("Certidão de Nascimento") of both;• Identity cards of both or passportsThe names of the partners are then put in the respective Junta de Freguesia for publicconsultation for a month. If there are any reasons why the marriage should not take place, thecompetent authority should be informed during this period. After this formality, the marriage cantake place. It is necessary to have two witnesses for the marriage.27

PUBLIC AND PRIVATE TRANSPORTURBAN PUBLIC TRANSPORTIn the main towns there is a complete public transport network. In Lisboa there are buses, theunderground, and trams. One may also use public elevators (lifts). Tourism Information Pointsat Carris (Lisboa) and STCP (Porto) sell tourist tickets every business day from 8 am to 8 pm.TAXISThese are painted mostly cream with a roof-light to identify them. However, there are still sometaxis which keep the old colours, green and black. In towns they use taximeters, but onceoutside urban boundaries the service is charged by the kilometre, and includes the price of thedriver’s return trip to his starting point. From 10 pm to 6 am the rate increases by 20%. It isnormal to give a tip of 10% on top of the fare. Luggage weighing more than 30 kg is chargedaccording to a fixed rate. All taxis have an updated chart in two languages.At the IGC a reliable Taxi service may be obtained from Radio-Taxis Concelho de Oeiras (Tel.21 4411214).TRAINSExpress trains between Lisbon and Porto stop in Coimbra (Alfa trains), while regional trains(Intercidades and Inter-regional) connect the different parts of Portugal. These trains have firstand second class carriages, except for local and suburban trains, where there is only one class.Special tickets - including tourist tickets valid for 7, 14 or 21 days, may be bought, while thereare special return ticket discounts on “blue days” for trips exceeding 100 km.In Lisbon area, Fertagus runs the rail connection between the two banks of River Tagus,crossing the Bridge. The train leaves at Entrecampos station (in Lisbon) up to the terminus atFogueteiro (on the south bank).A reliable railway line operates from Lisbon (Cais do Sodré) to Cascais from 5.30 a.m. to 3.10a.m, 7 days a week. The closest railway station to the IGC is OEIRAS (2-minute walk from theIGC). At peak hours, there are trains running every 5-10 minutes.FLIGHTSFlights inside Portugal are expensive and hardly worth considering, given the short distancesinvolved. A domestic departure tax is levied, but it's included in the price of the ticket.DRIVING IN PORTUGALIn Portugal all road traffic drives on the right. At the main squares, crossings and junctions,vehicles approaching from the right have the right of way, unless otherwise indicated onsignposts. At crossings with roundabouts, the vehicles already on the roundabout have priority.All traffic signs are in accordance with international standards.In Portugal there is an extensive road network consisting of:AE – Auto-Estradas (Motorways)IP – Itinerários Principais (Main Trunk Roads)IC – Itinerários Complementares (Complementary Trunk Roads)28

EN – Estradas Nacionais (Main Roads)EM – Estradas Municipais (Municipal Roads)All motorways are clearly signposted and a toll must normally be paid. At all the toll booths,there is a Via Verde (Green Channel). This has a toll system, controlled by closed circuittelevision, that makes it possible to automatically debit toll charges from your bank account.This channel is only open to those who have previously bought a green channel identificationdisk from the motorway operators Brisa.Drivers documentsLegal ID, valid national or international driving license, both with photographs, car registrationdocuments or equivalent, proof of ownership of the vehicle or equivalent and insurancecertificate. Nationals of EU countries need only their home driving licences to operate a car ormotorcycle in Portugal. Portugal also accepts licences issued in Brazil, Switzerland and theUSA. Other visitors should get an International Driving Permit through an automobile licensingdepartment or automobile club in their home country. In the case of a hire car, the driver shouldalso bear the hire contract. Violations are punished with an on-the-spot fine payable in cash.SeatbeltsThe use of seatbelts is compulsory for both the front and rear seats, except for vehicles notoriginally fitted with rear seat belts. Any infringement is punishable with a heavy fine.Alcohol levels for driversIt is against the law to drive under the influence of alcohol, i.e. a blood alcohol level of 0.5grams/litre or more. All those violating this regulation are punishable with a heavy fine,confiscation or suspension of their driving license and/or imprisonment, according to the degreeof alcohol shown in the blood.Breaking the highway CodeIn cases of breaking the Highway Code and if the person responsible is not resident in Portugal,an on-the-spot fine in cash and in Euros must be paid, or an amount equal to the maximum finefor the violation must be deposited.Speed LimitsIn addition to any speed limits indicated by the signs, drivers of cars and motorcycles aresubject to the following speed limits: 50 km/hour (31 mph) on towns and villages, and 90km/hour (55 mph) and/or 120 km/hour (75 mph) on main roads or motorways.Breakdowns and accidentsAll cars must carry a red reflector warning triangle, which is displayed in the case of an accidentor breakdown. In case of accident drivers must exchange names and addresses, and must notleave the place until this has been done even if the damage is slight.29

COMMUNICATIONSPOST OFFICEPostage stamps may be obtained at the IGC reception (Teresa Sousa) or at the main post officein the Oeiras Town Center (5 minutes walk from the IGC) which open from 8.30 a.m. to 3.00p.m., Monday to Friday. There is also a 24-hour post office at the Lisbon airport. For first classmail, which is more expensive and faster than second class mail, put a blue sticker (CorreioAzul) on the envelope.The official postboxes are red for normal mail and blue for first class mail. But you can alwaysput your mail in a red postbox.TELEPHONETelephones are installed by Portugal Telecom. There is a basic fee for having a telephoneinstalled.A number of new telephone companies have recently been established and the telephonemarket is presently very unclear and developments hard to predict.Sometimes, you may wish to call from an official telephone. Then you need to have coins or aspecial telephone card, which can be bought in any newspaper shop.TELEVISIONIn Portugal, National TV Broadcasting is free. Therefore, if you buy a TV set, you don´t need topay a broadcasting licence fee, as in other European countries.If you live in a house that is connected to a cable system, you may be able to accessinternational TV-stations such as CNN or BBC.SHOPPINGSHOPPING HOURSFrom 9 am to 1 pm and from 3 pm to 7 pm (working days). On Saturdays, most shops close at 1pm. In the shopping centres located in larger towns, shops are normally open too on Saturdays,Sundays and other holidays from 10 am to 11 pm.DEPARTMENT STORES, SHOPPING MALLS AND SUPERMARKETSLarge department stores (e.g. El Corte Inglês – metro: São Sebastião) and shopping malls (e.g.Colombo – metro: Colégio Militar/Luz, Amoreiras and Vasco da Gama – metro: Oriente) arefound in Lisbon. Biggest and best mall outside Lisbon is CascaisShopping, between Sintra andCascais. At all of the above mentioned shopping malls you will find a large supermarket.In Oeiras, you will find small shops in the town Center and a shopping mall (PalmeirasShopping Center) which can be found in the opposite direction to the Oeiras Town Center (15minutes walk). A shopping mall and large supermarket (Oeiras Parque) is located at a 5minutes drive from the IGC. In many local shopping areas there are small grocery shops.30

MARKETSFor one of Lisbon´s most entertaining shopping experiences, browse the sprawling Feira daLadra (Thieves Market) which take place every Tuesday morning and all day Saturday atCampo de Santa Clara, beside the Igreja de São Vincente de Fora in the Alfama district. Inaddition to cheap clothes and second hand books, you´ll also find a motley array of junk. Pricierantiques and furniture are available in a cluster of shops at the centre of the market.Markets outside Lisbon include the Feira de São Pedro, held in São Pedro (an outer district ofSintra) on the second and fourth Sunday of the month; and, along the Estoril coast, the Feira deCascais every Wednesday morning; the Feira de Carcavelos every Thursday morning (great forcheap clothes); and the Feira de Oeiras on the last Sunday of the month (for bric–a-brac andantiques).LEISURE TIME ACTIVITIESWALKING TOURS IN LISBONAs long as you don´t mind the occasional muscle-aching steep street, Lisbon is a joy forwalkers. It´s generally easy to find your way around, small enough to explore over a few daysand is visually pleasing everywhere. An added bonus is the proliferation of cafes andrestaurants where you can stop for refuelling. The pick of Lisbon´s many highlights is:• The Mosteiro dos Jeronimos at Belém, a Manueline masterpiece• The tram Nº 28 ride from Largo Martim Moniz, east into the Alfama or west into theBairro Alto• Fado music in a fado house of the Bairro Alto• The atmospheric lanes of the medieval Alfama district• Castelo de São Jorge and its panoramic views• Riverside hotspots such as Doca de Santo Amaro for restaurants and late-night clubsMUSEUMSOpen from 10 am to 12:30 am and from 2 pm to 5 pm. Closed on Mondays. Some palaces alsoclose on Wednesdays. The pick of lisbon´s many museum highlights is: the world-class MuseuCalouste Gulbenkian, plus the Museu Nacional de Arte Antiga and the Museu Nacional doAzulejo.OCEANÁRIOThe Oceanário, situated in the Parque das Nações (Metro: Oriente) is Europe´s largestaquarium which boasts some 25.000 fish, birds and mammals in a strikingly designed, twostoreyfacility that re-creates the entire global scene. It´s open 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily (6 p.m. inwinter).CLASSICAL MUSIC, OPERA & BALLETPortugal´s major orchestras are the Orquestra Gulbenkian and the state-sponsored OrquestraSinfônica Portuguesa (based at Teatro Camões). Lisbon has also its own OrquestraMetropolitana de Lisboa.Opera performances take place in the city´s handsome 18 th -century opera house, TeatroNacional de São Carlos.31

The two leading dance companies are the contemporary dance group, Ballet Gulbenkian, andthe largely classical Companhia Nacional de Bailado (based at Teatro Camões).Most classical music and dance performances are held at one of the three halls of theFundação Calouste Gulbenkian, the Centro Cultural de Belém, Teatro Camões or TeatroMunicipal de São Luis.CINEMASLisbon has some 60 cinemas, most showing current blockbusters (subtitled, not dubbed). In theOeiras/Cascais area, multiplex cinemas are found at the OeirasParque, Palmeiras andCascaisShopping shopping malls.GOLFGolfers are spoilt for choice. There are six major courses in the Lisbon area.TENNISYou´ll need to book well ahead if you want to reserve a court at popular sport centres such asInstalações de Ténis de Monsanto in Parque Florestal de Monsanto, the Jamor Tennis Club orthe Oeiras Tennis Club (at walking distance from the IGC).SWIMMINGPoolsAmong municipal indoor public pools are those at Areeiro (Avenida de Roma 28 in Lisbon) andOlivais (Avenida Dr. Francisco Luís Gomes. Kids may prefer the Piscina do Alvito (Estrada doAlvito), at Parque Infantil do Alvito, a children´s park within the Parque Florestal de Monsanto.It´s open 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. (closing at 6 p.m. in winter). In summer you can take advantage of themunicipal outdoor public ocean pool of Oeiras (5 minutes car drive from the IGC).BeachesFrom Oeiras to Cascais you will find numerous beaches that are generally crowded in summer.One of the best and unpoluted beaches in the Cascais area is Praia do Guincho, 9 km northwestof Cascais. This long, wild beach is a surfer´s and windsurfer´s paradise with its massivecrashing rollers. Beware of the strong undertow which can be dangerous for swimmers andnovice surfers.In the Setúbal Peninsula, known as the Costa Azul and easily accessible from Lisbon you canlaze on the vast beaches of the Costa da Caparica. This 8 km-long stretch of beach is Lisbon´sfavourite weekend escape, with cafes, restaurants and bars catering for every age group.SPECTATOR SPORTSIf you´re into athletics, check to see if any major championships are taking place in venues suchas the Pavilhão Atlantico at the Parque das Nações.FootballLisboetas are obsessed as everybody else in Portugal football (soccer). Of Portugal´s majorthree club sides, two – SL Benfica and the rival team, Sporting – are based in Lisbon.32

BullfightingBullfighting is still quite popular in Portugal, despite pressure from international animal-rightsactivists. Lisbon has its own Praça de Toiros (bullring) – an eye-catching Moorish-style buildingacross Avenida da Republica from Campo Pequeno metro station. Fights traditionally takeplace from April through October, usually on Thursday (and occasionally Sunday).DISCOS & CLUBSLisbon has scores of discos and clubs, some with occasional live bands, although the mainemphasis is on DJs and dance music. The liveliest nightlife areas are the Bairro Alto, theAvenida 24 de Julho, the Doca de Santo Amaro, the Doca de Alcântara and Alfama.Entertainment can also be found in the town of Cascais. There are no lack of bars to keep thenights buzzing, especially in Largo Luís de Camões, where the bars triple as cafes, restaurantsand discos.GOOD TO KNOWTIMEContinental Portugal and Madeira Island are on the Greenwich time - five hours ahead ofEastern Time & eight ahead of Pacific Time. The Azores Islands are 1 hour behind thePortuguese mainland. Daylight savings time begins the last Sunday in March (clocks are turnedone hour ahead) and ends the last Sunday in October (clocks go back one hour).ELECTRICITYThe electrical current in Portugal is 220 volts, 50 cycles AC, and outlets are two round prongs.WEIGHTS & MEASURESPortugal uses the metric system.TIPPINGIf you're not unhappy with the service, a reasonable restaurant tip is about 10%. For a snack, abit of loose change is enough. Taxi drivers appreciate about 10% of the fare. Good-humouredbargaining is acceptable in markets but you'll find the Portuguese tough opponents.NO SMOKINGSmoking is not allowed in public buildings and, as in other countries, regulations againstsmoking are getting stricter.TOILETSPublic toilets (casa de banho) are rare, though coin-operated street toilets are increasinglycommon. Most people use the facilities at the nearest cafe. Look for a “WC” sign, or “H”(homens; men) or “S” (senhoras; women).33

NATIONAL PUBLIC HOLIDAYSOn the following days, banks, offices, department stores and some shops and museums closeand public transport services are reduced.• New Year´s Day 1 January• Carnaval Tuesday February/March (variable)• Good Friday March/April (variable)• Liberty Day 25 April• Labour Day 1 May• Corpus Christi May/June (variable)• Portugal Day 10 June• Feast of the Assumption 15 August• Republic Day 5 October• All Saint´s Day 1 November• Independence Day 1 December• Feast of the Immaculate Conception 8 December• Christmas Day 25 DecemberIN CASE OF EMERGENCY – DIAL 112This is the emergency number for ambulance, fire brigade or police. You will be asked toexplain what has happened, where it has happened and from which number you are calling.34