I think Cape Verde is a proper ‘fly n flop’ destination, not a lot to do beyond sunbathe eat and drink. Whereas Madeira has some history.
I’m missing Saturday’s game too. I’m also at a hotel, not an all inclusive Riu in the sunshine - the Best Western Mount Pleasant on Bawtry Road, Donny. A good mate of mine is getting married, the poor sod…
Travelled on the cable car many times hope you enjoyed it. We would ride the car up to monte then find the levada dos tornos. A couple of times walked to camacha, but recent trips walked to hortensia tea rooms (about 2 hours) then catch local bus back to funchal which is a good experience in itself. Public transport is very good and cheap. Guided levada walks are a great day out, in funchal you can see levada walks advertised 1/2 price or less in some kiosks. Don't go in, they are linked to timeshare sellers. We used "Madeira Explorers", guides are knowledgeable, entertaining, sometimes funny and really care about the island .
I can’t make it either, am busy sulking at home in Wentworth, until some dishonest barsterd at Oakwell gives us a straight answer about the West Stand & other serious issues..
I’m also missing, hotel Royal Lancaster Infirmary. I hear the foods good. Ok that’s a lie but in the absence of positives I may as well lie.
My son and I can make it, but for the first time in several seasons have decided not to use our STs and take a break from it for a few games. There's too much we're frustrated about atm and too little we enjoy about the whole experience. My annoyance is such that I went to the trouble of emailing the club earlier this week asking for an update on the West Stand and confirmation of how many ST holders have requested refunds. I'm not expecting a response. I hope our enthusiasm returns quickly although the way we both feel about it right now I doubt it will unless there's some progress with some of the off field issues.
Thanks Chippy, we went up the cable cars to the botanical gardens which were underwhelming unfortunately - enjoyed the cable cars though. We might hire a car on saturday and go round the island and do a Levada or two.
It's very good, the staff are very friendly and welcoming. The hotel is better than we expected, it's due to close before Christmas for a refurb but to be honest it doesn't really look in need of much. The food has been excellent, last night being a Portuguese cuisine night was very good. I'm probably not the best person to ask though really, it's the first time I've ever done owt like this, it's usually been self-catering, camping or lately the motorhome. My partner Anne has had many of this type of holiday though and she's more than happy with it.
I agree about the garden. I've never driven there, roads are narrow and winding, and can be busy at the beauty spots. Friday morning is a good time to visit the market in funchal. Fish market is an eye opener, Janie isn't keen on seeing the tuna even though she eats plenty of it. They're much bigger than I imagined, dolphin size.
Yes, that fish market is quite something. Plenty of Espada lying there (Black Scabbard fish) and really unappetising looking. They taste good though, done in the traditional Madeira style with baked or fried banana.
We usually go in a small restaurant 'Solar da ajuda', thought I asked for 'espetada', which is grilled meat on skewers. I received scabbard fish as you described, they call it 'espada'! Was initially disappointed but it was quite good. Should have had the 'fillet on the stone' which is always nice.
Car is booked for tomorrow, we're planning to walk the Levada do Alecrim, then just tour round the island stopping off to have a look round, any recommendations?
CuReal das freiras(nuns valley), Camara de logos small village/ bay, lovely small church. We've only done it walking on the coast path, last time we were there the school kids had done some wonderful frescoes highlighting waste, made from drinks cans and bottle tops etc. Doesn't sound much to look at they were amazing. Cabo Girao, pico do areeiro, ribeira brava, encumeada, paul da Serra, porto Monica, seixal, sao Vicente. I think these places are in the west of the island, we've done them on day trips so haven't spent long in each. If you haven't experienced levada walks I suggest a guided walk for your 1st unless you're sure it's gentle and not dangerous. Some have sections of shear drops on narrow ledges with no edge protection, if you meet people coming in the opposite direction you have to take care passing. As I explained previously your guide will drop you at the start of the walk usually the high point then you follow the levada down to where your pickup will be waiting, all the ones we've have ended up at a bar. I'll try to put some photos on but I usually struggle because it tells me their too big. The east side of the island is quite different, a bit wilder.
Excellent day, went to Ribera Brava, Levada do Alecrim, then Porto Moniz. By then the sun was setting so we went back to Funchal to see the Christmas lights.
Sounds great and weather looks good. The new year fireworks are reputed to be among the best there is. Not been at new year but have seen the June Atlantic festival display which takes place on each Saturday in June. Very impressive.
