Visit Madeira, the volcanic island of flowers that lies north of the Canaries in the Atlantic Ocean. The flight from the UK is short, only about 2 hours and it is in the same time zone which also makes things easier. A holiday villa or apartment will ensure a comfortable holiday and good quality accommodation.
Madeira is Portuguese so do take your Portuguese phrase book although you will always find someone who speaks English. Hire a car to explore the island, or take the local buses. The mountains of Madeira hide a rabbit warren of tunnels quickly linking one part of the island with another. There is a plateau on top of Madeira with an ancient forest. The dry river beds or levadas are popular with walkers and the scenery is amazing.
Exotic flowers grow wild on Madeira. Bird of Paradise flowers, and colourful succulents thrive eveywhere. Visit Madeira's flower market to marvel at the lovely displays.