Portugal:
Modern Portugal contains enough World Heritage Sites and other natural and cultural wonders to keep any visitor busy for a long, long time. It is a country of astonishing beauty and diversity, not to mention clear blue skies and friendly, courteous people. Pick any destination and the view from your window might be a rugged stretch of windswept coastline (Cabo do Sao Vicente, Castelejo, Cabo Espichel), a pristine beach where fishermen mend their nets beside brightly painted sardine boats (Albufeira, Bordeira, Praia do Camilo) or a cobbled street overlooked by dazzling whitewashed houses with wooden balconies and red-tiled roofs. Portugal is a land of infinite options. You can mingle with the crowds in one of the more sophisticated beach resorts or wander through the medieval quarters of historic cities like Lisbon, Porto, Braga or Coimbra.
To explore the more remote beauty spots (car rental is relatively cheap, and driving through Portugal is a delight) stay overnight in a romantic pousada - a converted farm, monastery or manor house enjoying a wonderful setting - an amazing bargain. If it is an activity holiday you are looking for, Portugal is one of Europe's premier golfing destinations while the tennis schools are second-to-none. You could try your hand at big game fishing or horse riding, learn how to windsurf or water ski. Other un-misable experiences include Fado (Portugal's answer to soul music), country fairs where centuries-old folk traditions are lovingly reenacted, Port wine tasting and mouthwatering fish suppers. Portugal is a country ripe for discovery.
Madeira:
Madeira is a singularly beautiful island. The scenery is memorable and remarkably diverse, especially bearing in mind the island's modest size. Madeira has been described as a 'floating garden', reflecting centuries of cultivation. The rich volcanic soil, mild climate and abundant rainfall (especially in the north) have been responsible for contrasting landscapes: lush river valleys, terraced hillsides planted with vines and bananas and dense primeval forest. The most enjoyable way to explore the island is to follow the course of the levadas (irrigation channels) which crisscross the countryside. The island's burgeoning coastal resorts are geared to the demands of modern tourism and the expansion of Santa Catarina Airport is expected to lead to a marked increase in the number of foreign visitors over the next decade.
