In the Atlantic off the north western coast of Africa is a small Portuguese Archipelago called the Madeira Islands. This volcanic and lush island has the most vegetation, the most spectacular geography and lots of history. We had some free time and walked into the city of 150K inhabitants and checked out the harbour and shops. Our tour took us on switch back peaks overlooking the Nun's Valley with its incredible views. The drop is 1055 meters to the base. We had an excellent driver. Next to the twin steeple church in Monte is the skytram which descends to sea level or if you choose, there is a toboggan that slides down smooth concrete to the base. We learned the Portuguese history and the story of Madeira wine - very interesting. The island is lush and fertile. It grows bananas, pine trees, bay leaves, oranges and lemons, eucalyptus trees - almost everything. Property values are expensive.