Madeira is situated about 310 miles from Lisbon in the Atlantic Ocean , with its mild climate and out standing natural beauty it make the perfect place to relax away for the faster paces of life elsewhere. Infamous for its friendly locals and great food and drink, you can be assure that you will receive a warm welcome on the island.
English is spoken widely however locals really appreciate you having a go at the Portuguese language you will not be shunned for not speaking it. There are lots of useful publications giving basic phrases and these can be found in the numerous shops catering for tourists.
The local food and drink is fantastic and reasonably priced too! Even in the hotel area you are unlikely to be overcharged for and meals, on the subject, try the local delicacies, Portuguese food is great and has a selection that caters for 99% of taste buds. However along with the rest of Europe, your never far from McDonald's or Pizza Hut!
There many activities to do on the island again catering for every age, tours of the island are offered by several companies, you can go and visit Porto Santo with its miles of white sandy beaches, visit spectacular gardens, take a ride on the cable car, or relax by the ocean in one of the many lifeguarded natural volcanic swimming pools.