News Porto.

The traditional real estate market is changing, with different approaches to living, working and socializing. Student’s residences can meet these changes as a place to live and to work. That concept is starting to take shape in Porto with Smart Studios construction of 280 rental apartments already commencing. The endeavour is targeted at students and young professionals, and offers meetings rooms, dining rooms, study and lounge areas, gymnasium and also fitness and yoga spaces.

Libraries refuse to be defined by lockdown measures and will resume book lending. Porto Municipal Libraries will adopt the take-away regime as regards books, CDs or DVDs, starting today, 9th February.

The Municipal Executive approved the first 2021 budget review yesterday morning, in the exact amount of 51.7 million euros, during a private meeting held by videoconference. Rui Moreira admits to the possibility that the Municipality further reinforces the pandemic fight effort in the nearest future. But, as these are uncertain times, Mayor Rui Moreira deems wise not to “be out of ammunition just yet”, even so because this crisis can get worse.

The University of Porto opened an international competition to find a design solution that solves the pandemic conviviality crisis and provides fresh interpretations of social interactions. Applications are open until 15th March. First prize is three thousand euros.

As soon as possible, when the pandemic preventive measures are lifted, be delighted with “The Butterfly's Burden” mural by artist from Porto Teresa Rafael, aka RAFI die Erste, at the intersection of Rua de Vilar and the Rua de D. Pedro V. In the meantime we offer you a hint on what to expect.

Av. Dom Carlos I is halted as of this evening, at 10 pm due to the worsening of weather conditions in the seafront. Circulation restrictions will be lifted when weather conditions permit. This situation is re-assed on 10th February.

STOP and read this if you are an artist or producer with an interest to take part in the line-up opening event for Womex 2021, in Porto, at Casa da Música, between 27th and 31st October. The application deadline is 10th February. See here for further information.

Within a broader scope of the transition to the circular economy, the Municipality of Porto reaffirmed its commitment towards a “circular recovery and a resilient future”, in the beginning of the year, by signing the Circular Cities Declaration.

Take the opportunity provided by lockdown days and while strolling with your kids to keep the exercise regime on or just to beat lockdown blues, pick up some material you find in nature, gardens and parks, and head home to build yourselves the ultimate dreamcatcher. Take some cues by the Environmental Department Team of Porto City Hall and put your heart into it.

Confinement is no excuse to stop leading an active lifestyle. You can still continue your sports routines, by adjusting and adapting your lockdown schedules with the help of the challenge by the programme #Treinaemcasa. This 20-minute class will help boost your stamina while it delivers guidelines to avoid personal injuries.