Amy

<BR>I am going to Portugal in about 3 weeks and only have one week there. I was going to spend half the week in Lisbon and the other half in Porto. I am now thinking of nixing Porto and going to the Madeira Islands instead of Porto. What shall I do? Also, how many days are needed in the Madeira Islands if I decide to go there rather than Porto? <BR>Thanks,<BR>Amy

Rosa

Actually, there's quite a bit to do in the Lisbon area; don't miss Sintra, for example. You really should have about three days for Madeira; there are frequent flights from Lisbon, some going early and returning late, but my thoughts would be more toward perhaps staying in Lisbon or the Lisbon area and traveling from there through the country.<BR>Madeira is incredibly lovely, though!

kavey

Have never been to Porto but I adore Madeira. I have visited twice for a week each time and will probably return in the next year or two..

Pedro

I spent one week in Madeira but could have easily been two weeks. It is a charming place with superb landscapes and ideal for hiking along the "levadas". What I remember most about Funchal is its particular situation. It may be one of the most beautiful bays in the world. We arrived at sunset and seeing so many small lights as an amphitheatre facing the sea was something unforgettable. I do not know Porto Santo but the contrast seem to be evident (almost deserted, lovely beaches). The road between Seixal and Porto Moniz in the north coast is also something to remember carved literally in the rock.<BR>I would do Porto including the area further north as Guimaraes, Viana do Castelo, Braga, etc but although I like Porto instead of spending half the week there I would probably visit many other places not so far as Nazar&eacute; ( the view from O Sitio viewpoint is stunning ), Sintra, Batalha, Tomar, Obidos, etc or would fly to Madeira for 5-7 days.

Amy

Thanks for the advice! I have booked 4 nights at the Hotel Savoy in Funchal...but I haven't cancelled my reservation in Porto yet just in case I change my mind again! I will stay 4 nights in Lisbon and 4 nights in Funchal...I guess I will have to go back to Portugal to see Porto and the rest. Has anyone stayed at the Hotel Savoy? Reid's Palace is far too expensive...I couldn't get a deal there. <BR>Thanks Again!<BR>Amy

kavey

I have stayed there...<BR><BR>I think if you search Funchal on this forum you might find some of my comments, I will rewrite them for you here if not. Or feel free to email me.<BR><BR>Kavey

Amy

Thanks Kavey...I found your info about the Savoy! You said the hotel is older...it did look a bit 60's-ish from the picture I have seen, but nice. I wanted to search out more info on the Savoy today, but went to a Burn's Supper last night and cannot function quite well today...will have to go back to bed! Thanks for your help and info! Does my itinery for Lisbon and Funchal sound ok?<BR>Thanks,<BR>Amy

kavey

We really liked the hotel itself, the rooms were lovely, not the most luxurious I have seen, but charming and comfortable and airey.<BR><BR>We also liked the pool area, and liked the location of the hotel which is an easy walk down into Funchal (and convenient for buses in or out of town too) and also close to some very good restaurants.<BR><BR>Service in the hotel was good, and getting afternoon tea, just tea, not the whole sandwich and cake affair, was a pleasant relaxing affair.<BR><BR>The only disappointment for us was the buffet breakfast, it was OK but the less expensive and less classy Carlton Casino did better, and the lunch, in the same place. After eating lunch once in the hotel, we didn't do that again.<BR><BR>But the (expensive) roof top grill is wonderful, very good food and service. You'll need to dress for this one and reserve a table.<BR><BR>Feel free to email me about Madeira, or ask further questions, I will help if I can.<BR><BR>Kavey