Is Madeira safe for American tourists?

Is Madeira safe for American tourists? Madeira is a fairly safe place to visit. Having said this, there are certain precautions that should be taken in order to ensure a smooth trip to the island. Like always, common sense is the most important tool used for staying safe.

Can tourists drink the water in Madeira?

There is plenty of water in Madeira and it is all drinkable and of excellent quality. Porto Santo uses desalinated water, which is perfectly safe to drink.

Is Funchal safe at night?

Funchal is usually a very safe city. However, as in any other places you go, common sense is required. Probably the unsafest place to go in Funchal is Zona Velha (near the cable car) at night, because it usually gets very crowded because of the nightlife.

Is a week in Madeira too long?

7 days are certainly enough time to get a good taste of the island and enjoy some of its most popular sights and experiences. During a seven-day itinerary, you can explore Madeira's stunning landscapes, from its rugged coastlines and lush forests to its towering peaks and charming villages.

Is Funchal safe to walk around?

Inside Funchal : Health & Safety - Tripadvisor. According to the Madeira Tourist Board's website the island has very little crime. It states that very likely the worst things that will happen to most visitors are generally sunburns and hangovers.

Is Madeira safe for Americans?

Portugal is a safe destination for solo travel—and so is Madeira. Solo travelers should take the same precautions they would anywhere else. These include: Watching your drinks made.

Which month is best for Funchal?

Weather in Funchal The average temperature is around 26°C, which lowers to around 20°C to 25°C from October to March. The best time to go to Funchal for the most heat is in the summer. August is the hottest time of the year with just nine rainy days spread over the month.

Is English common in Madeira?

Portuguese is the official language in Madeira. It is worth picking up a few key phrases if you want to be polite, such as 'please', 'thank you,' etcetera, although English is widely spoken in tourist areas. People who have visited the Portuguese mainland may notice a thicker accent in Madeira.

Is it safe to swim in the ocean in Madeira?

Calheta Beach is one of the island of Madeira's few yellow sandy beaches. A peaceful swimming experience is guaranteed by two piers, so you can exercise in the sea all year round. Ribeira do Natal Beach enjoys properties that make it one of the best places for swimming. The transparency of its waters is remarkable.

Why is Madeira so popular?

Madeira is renowned for its landscapes, lore—and its legendary wine, which graced the tables of America's Founding Fathers.

Does Funchal have mosquitoes?

The risk for mosquito activity is extremely high. Wear long-sleeved shirts and pants when spending time outdoors to prevent bites.

Is it safe to walk around Madeira?

Violent crime involving tourists is extremely rare in Madeira and so you have little to worry about with regard to personal safety. But as with any travel destination, it's important to take basic travel safety precautions such as keeping your valuables close by and/or hidden, especially at night.

Is Madeira safe for solo female?

Madeira is generally safe for solo female travellers. The island is known for its friendly locals and low crime rate, making it a great destination for solo female travellers.

Can I get around Madeira without a car?

Visiting Madeira However, there are other means of transport available such as buses, taxis, tuk-tuks, bicycles and scooters. It is also worth mentioning the importance of the cable cars, which connect to some of the archipelago's most iconic points of interest.

Is it worth going to Madeira?

I highly recommend going if you love nature, if you enjoy great food, a warm culture and breathtaking views at every turn. I stayed in the main Funchal, away from the tourist area. I didn't go to Madeira to be surrounded by other tourists taking photos of this or that.

Are Madeira people friendly?

Madeira is known for its subtropical climate, stunning natural landscapes, and friendly locals.

Is Madeira too touristy?

Yes, Madeira is a popular destination and indeed some of the main tourist attractions can get quite busy. But for the biggest part, Madeira is still very quiet and undiscovered.

Why is Madeira so rich?

The favorable climate of the island also contributed to the land thrive, and wheat production has become one of the greatest wealth of the island. This cereal was exported on a large scale for the Portuguese possessions on the African coast, giving thus the first cycle of Madeira economic history.

Where do most expats live in Madeira?

This is also the place where most expats and digital nomads live so people are more likely to speak English. With over 100,000 people living in Funchal, it is the main center of Madeira. The capital is known for its lively nightlife, incredible restaurants, and for having loads of cultural activities to enjoy.

Is it expensive in Madeira?

Madeira in general isn't an expensive place to live. Housing, transport, and food are quite affordable for expats staying in Madeira longer term.

Can Americans move to Madeira?

As an American citizen, you can stay on Madeira Island for up to 90 days without a visa, but if you plan to stay longer, you'll need to apply for a residence permit.

Why did people leave Madeira?

Many emigrated illegally to escape military service and avoid the wars in the colonies (Angola and Mozambique), and also because they could not afford the high cost of the emigration process by legal means.

Why is Madeira so cheap?

The average standard of living tends to be a bit lower than in mainland Portugal, and the local autonomous government gives generous subsidies coming from the tourist industry revenues and from the Portuguese national budget. Go where the locals go and everything will be cheap.