Yikes… We have made the final turn–– Madeira is the second to the last port of call with just San Juan, Puerto Rico between us and home. But what a place to visit. A place I could easily come back to.

Funchal is the Capital City of Portugal’s Madeira archipelago and one of the most underrated and beautiful ports we have seen. Our ship, The Crystal Serenity, seemed like an extension to this island as it roped onto the pier. It was Wednesday, mid-morning around 10 AM and our excursion was not until 1:30 PM so we strolled off the ship and within a minutes walk we were in the center of this stunning city–– a place one could easily call home.

Apparently, this is a popular destination for New Year’s Eve and the leading port of call for Portuguese cruise lines. It was busy, but not so busy that it felt crowded. I think that May and September would be the best time to visit and would imagine by August, with the influx of travelers descending upon the port and hotel district, the locals head to the hills until mid September. This island, with its steep cliffs must be a diver’s paradise and there are plenty of water sports here. I saw groups of kayakers, paddle boarders, jet skies, zodiac and sailboats leaving from this port. I also did some research and on the SW, W & NW points of the island, there are more than a dozen surf spots suitable for beginners to professionals. There might be a bit of protectionism by the locals in some of the premier spots, but being respectful of the lineup and an offer for drinks afterwards will get you anywhere.

The population of the island is around 250K with 100K living in the city of Madeira. The land is lush, the architecture beautiful and the people friendly. There exists an extensive Mass Transit System by bus, taxi and tuk-tuks and no shortage of restaurants, bars, or shopping.

After a quick grab of coffee and a muffin, we headed off the ship and into the city center–– a walk of about five minutes. We strolled the streets, popped into a few shops, and just enjoyed the beautiful weather here, which never seems to get too hot or two cold– a true Goldilocks zone.

By 1:00 PM we were back on the ship (with a new dress) and ready for our excursion. Not far from the ship is a funicular that starts along the water and travels 550 meters (1,800 ft) up the mountain. You travel over the homes and botanical garden with views to the sea that are spectacular.

When we reached the top, it was another short, steep, climb up to the parish of Our Lady of the Mount, passing over the Botanical Gardens and alongside a pond where dragonflies dropped down to lay their eggs on the underside of the red camellias that have fallen from above.

On many of our excursion, there inevitably lies a church, or other place of worship, which are such wonderful places to sit in silence.

I often sit back and admire the detail of architecture, the finishings and artwork, trying to cast myself back in time to when and how these structures were built by the artisans of the day. Sitting here, touching the rail in front of me where my hand now rests, can I share this quantum connection with someone from the past, reflecting upon the days, the places, life experiences and remembering those who were in my life and those who have left me.

Our guide summoned us to move on to the final part of our excursion–– but this is where it gets interesting. We were told there was a toboggan ride, but looking around we never saw any elevated rails anywhere near the area. What we did see at first I had brushed off because I thought they were just large baskets. I was wrong. Dead wrong. There is a little known thing called: Carreiros do Monte.

But not to be outdone…. The dress