A Portuguese archipelago located in the North Atlantic Ocean, Madeira was originally known as the Purple Islands. It has been home to Fatima Lopes, Christopher Columbus and the Karl of Austria among many memorable personalities. Today's Madeira is a popular year-round resort famed worldwide for its Madeira wine, a wonderful climate, striking scenery, flowers, embroidery artisans, and New Years' Eve celebrations with a fabulous fireworks show. The Madeira Island, one of the most important places of Madeira, is often referred to as the 'floating garden in the Atlantic.' The wide variety of delightful gardens and parks that can be found on the lands of Madeira are sure to render you speechless.

Visit the city of Funchal for its historical significance. The city, divided into three historically rich nuclei: Sao Pedro, Se, and Santa Maria, takes longer than a day to explore. Funchal received a gold award as the 'European Flowering City 2000.' It only takes a look to discover why this prestigious award was deservedly presented to the city. Madeira Island is also known for its world record size big game fishing. Some of the best-equipped boats for big game fishing in the Mid-Atlantic can be found in Funchal's Marina. Whether you are a newcomer to this sport or an expert already, you are bound to have an unforgettable fishing trip.

Even though tou can shop at malls and supermarkets anywhere in the world, the typical or regional markets on the islands are really out of this universe! You would love the atmosphere of Mercado dos Lavradores. Try the 'bolo de caco' bread or the wheat soup before you leave.

The renowned Levada Walks in Madeira are pleasant for all and not just for the fit, young and adventurous. The wondrous landscapes of the islands are easily accessible, while the climate is perfect, too.

Then there are cafe-bars, pubs, discotheques, night clubs, dinner shows and themed entertainment evenings for the truly young at heart. In a nutshell, Madeira includes all of your favorite ingredients to cook up a marvelous trip!

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