Our first port of call today – Madeira – sunshine and warmth after the cold of the Atlantic . We have been here several times before so we simply went for a walk around Funchal, the main town. It is an attractive town with lots of pedestrian areas so we could move around with the wheelchair although someone needs to explain to the local builders about the need for drop pavements. The town was flooded last year and they are rebuilding part of the harbour. The picture shows the view from the promenade looking onto the hills surrounding the town. The local beach has black sand showing the volcanic nature of the island.
The local shops are aimed at the tourist trade with embroidery, cork and leather goods. Prices are high probably due to the pound/euro exchange rate. Many of them are not easy to access since they have high steps. Lots of local people stand in the street and talk to each other. It seems the local pastime. Traffic is intense and I would not like to drive here. The bus drivers seem to feel they own the roads and charge out onto each roundabout with enthusiasm.
No comments:
Post a Comment