Funchal, Portugal Cruise Port Guide

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.

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.

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 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 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

Se 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.