Funchal (coming from the word for fennel) is an amazing island city, being the capital city of the Madeira archipelago. It was discovered in 1420 by Portuguese explorers. It has a dramatic setting with volcanic mountains creating a giant ampitheatre around the city. The city has a population of around 106k.

We had a spectacular day, clear and sunny. We wlaked the cobbled streeted paths to visit the traditional embroidery shop ,Boral. where I suffered a great bought of decision anxiety. I ended up procuring a beautiful linen scarf , embroidered with white lilies.

We picked up a tuk tuk driver who was amazingly knowlegable. SHe (Tony) took us all around the beauty spots of Funchal.

Dining at Jacques with Vera and Bryan.