Is this statement true? Yes definitely, this country has been broken for many years in my view. It all started around forty five years ago when the do-gooders began to influence the justice system and it’s been going fast downhill ever since. Ineffectual polititicians who don’t live in the real world and have introduced legislation for softer sentences have added to the countries demise. Lack of discipline in the home and at schools has produced many who have no respect for anything not even themselves.

Madeira, The Mountains

The Summit Of Pico Grande

Pico Grande at 1654 metres/5426 ft above sea level is not the highest peak on Madeira but I think it’s the one that gives the most panoramic view of the mountain ridges and best view of Curral das Freiras, the village nestled in the valley below. The summit is reached by pulling yourself up on a chain fixed to the sloping east side of the mountain top.

The link below is to a copyright photograph which cannot be reproduced but it’s a stunning view of the peak shown on the top left shrouded in cloud and the village below. http://www.flickr.com/photos/ilumb/158323007/

Madeira, The Flora

The ‘Garden Of The Atlantic’ is one of the most colourful islands you will ever see, for flower and plant lovers this place is paradise. The indigenous Laurisilva that once covered the whole island is now mainly restricted to the northern slopes of the island where it is designated a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. A common site at UK airport carousels are boxes of flowers that people have purchased in Madeira and brought home.

The Queen Mary 2 in Funchal Harbour.

Funchal, The Islands Capital

Every year my wife and I spend at least two weeks in the Portuguese Atlantic island of Madeira. It is known as the ‘Garden Of The Atlantic’ and is well named as any lover of flowers and plants will testify. It also offers superb walking  and this is the main reason we keep returning.