Why Funchal? I am instantly calmed by its gentleness. This has partly to do with the old-fashioned charm of the inhabitants; partly with mildness of climate. And even though traffic can at times be ...

Madeira is the place to walk. For the serious hikers there are spectacular footpaths and levadas that cover the island. And for the strollers there is the wonderful seafront promenade from Funchal to ...

Forbes contributors publish independent expert analyses and insights. David Nikel is a travel writer covering cruising and Scandinavia. Once the last stop for explorers like Christopher Columbus and ...