Updated on February 26th, 2025
Did you miss me?
Last week I took a break from your Inbox, as I was away in Madeira. I usually make sure I continue to send my weekly email, no matter where I am, so this was quite a big thing for me. But before I explain why, if you haven’t been, let me tell you a little about Madeira.
Nestled in the Atlantic Ocean, Madeira belongs to Portugal, but is located about 600 miles southwest of the mainland and 300 miles from the African coast. It is a lush, volcanic island, with dramatic landscapes, a subtropical climate, and a vibrant culture.
When flying in, it literally feels like you are in the middle of nowhere (add to that, the runway is built on stilts and if the wind is too high, the pilot must find an alternative. Thankfully we never found out where this might be!).
So, why visit Madeira?
For us, it was the fact that we got a great deal on an amazing hotel, all because at a travel show we agreed to attend a 90-minute presentation on timeshare. I have lots more to say on this, but for this week, let’s leave it at that.
But if you are wondering why it would appeal to you, here are a few reasons to add it to your list:
Stunning Natural Scenery
Madeira’s landscapes are a feast for the eyes. From the towering cliffs of Cabo Girão to the enchanting Laurisilva forest, a UNESCO World Heritage site, the island is a paradise for nature lovers. We went on a tour around the west of the island to both locations. Cabo Girão is the highest cliff in Europe, 2nd highest in the world. It is known for its suspended glass platform with unparalleled panoramic views. Unfortunately, when we visited it was shrouded in mist! The forest was too, but somehow it just made this look more mystical. I guess you can’t have everything!
Stunning Natural Scenery
Cabo Girão
nd
Fantastic Hiking
The island is covered by an intricate network of irrigation channels, called levadas, which offer some amazing hiking trails, leading you through lush valleys, waterfalls, and serene mountains. Some are not for the faint-hearted. The one we chose (25 Fontes) involved walking along paved tracks where the sheer drop was guarded by a flimsy railing and often not wide enough for two people to comfortably pass. And there are plenty of people to pass!
Fantastic Hiking
Mild Year-Round Climate
Madeira has a subtropical climate, which means it enjoys mild temperatures throughout the year. Whether you’re looking to escape the winter chill or the summer heat, Madeira provides a comfortable and pleasant retreat, perfect for outdoor activities and relaxation.
Mild Year-Round Climate
Rich Cultural Heritage
There are also plenty of ways to immerse yourself in the culture of the island. Whether you choose to take a wander through the cobbled streets of Funchal, the island’s capital, visit the striking Sé Cathedral, or explore the vibrant Mercado dos Lavradores. Don’t miss the chance to sample local delicacies like espetada(marinated beef skewers), or espada (yes, it’s a little confusing!) which is locally caught scabbard fish with banana. Then, of course, there is the famous Madeira wine, or local rum in the traditional cocktail of poncha.
Rich Cultural Heritage
espetada
espada
Adventure and Relaxation
For the adventurous, Madeira offers a wealth of activities, from paragliding over the island’s dramatic landscapes to canyoning in its rugged terrain. The crystal-clear waters around Madeira are perfect for diving and snorkelling, although this time I decided to give all of these a miss. If relaxation is more your style, the island’s many luxurious spas and serene beaches provide the perfect setting for unwinding.
Adventure and Relaxation
Festivals and Events
Madeira is also known for its lively festivals. The annual Carnival in February and the Flower Festival in spring are apparently particularly spectacular. The New Year’s Eve fireworks in Funchal are world-renowned, drawing visitors from around the globe. In June, every Saturday they set off a display from the port which we were able to enjoy over a cocktail from the comfort of a sofa in a hotel which once welcomed Winston Churchill.
Festivals and Events
So, I had a lovely week enjoying all this. And in case you are wondering, we didn’t buy the timeshare.
But I did do something epic and life changing…
I got engaged!
Yes, you read that right!
It was a huge surprise to be asked. But I said “Yes” and spent the rest of the week in a little bubble while the whole thing sunk in, and I got used to wearing a gorgeous ring on my finger again.
If I’m honest, I’m still in shock!
And I decided to enjoy the moment and stay away from your Inbox for a week.
I have no doubt I will be sharing more about this part of my journey and what it means for the next chapter of life for me. Needless to say, I am excited and very, very happy.
But for now, I’ll leave you to add Madeira to your list of places to visit!
So, have you visited Madeira? What would appeal to you most about the island? Or were you ever totally surprised by something you weren’t expecting on a trip? Hit reply to this email to let me know or connect via your social method of choice (Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, YouTube, Pinterest, Threads or LinkedIn) to give me all the details.
YouTube
,
Threads
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TOn a different island on the other side of the world, in my latest video, I take you back to St Lucia. This week on YouTube, I spend a few hours walking the trails of not-to-be-missed Pigeon Island National Park. I head up to Fort Rodney for a bit of history, get a glimpse of neighbouring Martinique, explore the old barracks, indulge in a bit of snorkelling…and get run over a by a guy in a snuba kit! See it all for yourself HERE.
HERE
Until next time,
Safe Travels
Sue x
Sue x
This newsletter may contain affiliate links. By using these, Sue Where Why What may receive a small commission for which I say thank you, but you will not pay any extra charges for this. My opinions remain my own.
This newsletter may contain affiliate links. By using these, Sue Where Why What may receive a small commission for which I say thank you, but you will not pay any extra charges for this. My opinions remain my own.
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Blog – Over 30 Epic Activities for Your Perfect
St Lucia Itinerary
Blog – Over 30 Epic Activities for Your Perfect
St Lucia Itinerary
Blog – Over 30 Epic Activities for Your Perfect
St Lucia Itinerary
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Blog – Best Beaches for Snorkelling in St Lucia
Blog – Best Beaches for Snorkelling in St Lucia
Blog – Best Beaches for Snorkelling in St Lucia
Video – What to do in St Lucia? Visit Pigeon Island National Park
Video – What to do in St Lucia? Visit Pigeon Island National Park
Video – What to do in St Lucia? Visit Pigeon Island National Park
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🏠 For accommodation, I use Booking.com. They have their Genius loyalty scheme which is easy to progress through the levels for better discounts and inclusions.
🚍 For tours and activities, my preferred supplier is Get Your Guide.
🗺️ For multi day or week tours, check out G Adventures. I used them for trips in Costa Rica, Peru, and Galapagos.
🤞 I would never leave home without travel insurance. With Safety Wing you can take out an annual policy and pay monthly. This takes the hassle out of having to remember for us regular travellers.
🛫 For cheap flights, check out Skyscanner or join Jacks Flight Club which scans the internet for error fares (UK only).
🧳 For luggage storage on your travels, I recommend the service by Bounce.
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🏠 For accommodation, I use Booking.com. They have their Genius loyalty scheme which is easy to progress through the levels for better discounts and inclusions.
🚍 For tours and activities, my preferred supplier is Get Your Guide.
🗺️ For multi day or week tours, check out G Adventures. I used them for trips in Costa Rica, Peru, and Galapagos.
🤞 I would never leave home without travel insurance. With Safety Wing you can take out an annual policy and pay monthly. This takes the hassle out of having to remember for us regular travellers.
🛫 For cheap flights, check out Skyscanner or join Jacks Flight Club which scans the internet for error fares (UK only).
🧳 For luggage storage on your travels, I recommend the service by Bounce.
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@media (max-width: 575px) {
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🏠 For accommodation, I use Booking.com. They have their Genius loyalty scheme which is easy to progress through the levels for better discounts and inclusions.
🚍 For tours and activities, my preferred supplier is Get Your Guide.
🗺️ For multi day or week tours, check out G Adventures. I used them for trips in Costa Rica, Peru, and Galapagos.
🤞 I would never leave home without travel insurance. With Safety Wing you can take out an annual policy and pay monthly. This takes the hassle out of having to remember for us regular travellers.
🛫 For cheap flights, check out Skyscanner or join Jacks Flight Club which scans the internet for error fares (UK only).
🧳 For luggage storage on your travels, I recommend the service by Bounce.
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🏠 For accommodation, I use Booking.com. They have their Genius loyalty scheme which is easy to progress through the levels for better discounts and inclusions.
🚍 For tours and activities, my preferred supplier is Get Your Guide.
🗺️ For multi day or week tours, check out G Adventures. I used them for trips in Costa Rica, Peru, and Galapagos.
🤞 I would never leave home without travel insurance. With Safety Wing you can take out an annual policy and pay monthly. This takes the hassle out of having to remember for us regular travellers.
🛫 For cheap flights, check out Skyscanner or join Jacks Flight Club which scans the internet for error fares (UK only).
🧳 For luggage storage on your travels, I recommend the service by Bounce.
.wp-block-gutenbee-column.block-19433f-3251-46 { flex-basis: 100%; }
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@media (max-width: 575px) {
.wp-block-gutenbee-column.block-19433f-3251-46 { flex-basis: 100%; }
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🏠 For accommodation, I use Booking.com. They have their Genius loyalty scheme which is easy to progress through the levels for better discounts and inclusions.
🚍 For tours and activities, my preferred supplier is Get Your Guide.
🗺️ For multi day or week tours, check out G Adventures. I used them for trips in Costa Rica, Peru, and Galapagos.
🤞 I would never leave home without travel insurance. With Safety Wing you can take out an annual policy and pay monthly. This takes the hassle out of having to remember for us regular travellers.
🛫 For cheap flights, check out Skyscanner or join Jacks Flight Club which scans the internet for error fares (UK only).
🧳 For luggage storage on your travels, I recommend the service by Bounce.
🏠 For accommodation, I use Booking.com. They have their Genius loyalty scheme which is easy to progress through the levels for better discounts and inclusions.
Booking.com
🚍 For tours and activities, my preferred supplier is Get Your Guide.
Get Your Guide
🗺️ For multi day or week tours, check out G Adventures. I used them for trips in Costa Rica, Peru, and Galapagos.
G Adventures
🤞 I would never leave home without travel insurance. With Safety Wing you can take out an annual policy and pay monthly. This takes the hassle out of having to remember for us regular travellers.
Safety Wing
🛫 For cheap flights, check out Skyscanner or join Jacks Flight Club which scans the internet for error fares (UK only).
Skyscanner
Jacks Flight Club
🧳 For luggage storage on your travels, I recommend the service by Bounce.
Bounce
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