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Awaiting Your Return From Shore |
Volcanic
in origin, Madeira's peaks stretch out of the sea and create deep, verdant
valleys. The volcanic soil and the mild climate are credited for the
abundance of lush and multicolored vegetation. Along the center of the
island runs a mountain chain with spectacular tiers of green beauty .
Madeira is renowned for its superb embroidery, which carries the island’s
name, as does the wine, which many feel ranks among the world’s best.
Pier Information
The ship is scheduled to dock in Funchal. The center of town is
approximately 15 minutes on foot. Taxis are generally available at the
pier. Be sure to agree on the fare before setting out.
Shopping
Madeira’s most obvious souvenir is the wine that bears its name.
Embroidery, wickerwork and ceramics are equally popular buys. A folk
percussion instrument, called the quinho and decorated with traditional
dolls, is also nice souvenir. Many shops observe siesta time between
12:30 3:30 June 3 is a holiday and most shops will be
closed.
Cuisine
Espetada is beef grilled over a fire of laurel twigs. Fish is the
mainstay of the local diet, with the espada (scabbard fish) considered
the best. Afternoon tea at Reid’s Hotel is still a fashionable
thing to do. Taste some of the famous Madeira wine that comes in four
varieties: Sercial, golden and dry; Verdelho, slightly sweeter; Boal, a
semi-sweet dessert wine; and Malvasia (Malmsey), a sweet after-dinner
drink.
Other Sights
Quinta das Cruzes. Madeira’s discoverer, Zarco, is believed to
have lived in this house. Now a museum, it displays furniture and
paintings and is surrounded by fabulous gardens with magnificent
orchids.
Sé Cathedral. The cathedral's stunning design features white
stucco with contrasting black basalt and red tufa rock; the ceiling is
inlaid with ivory.
Mercado dos Lavradores. Visit this colorful market during the
morning to see the flower vendors and fish and produce stands.
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Awaiting Your Return
From Shore |
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Complimentary
Spirits Await |
Return to Your
Suite and Sail Away to The Next Adventure |
Entertainment
and Dancing Await You |
