Madeira is a Portuguese archipelago in the north Atlantic Ocean that lies between 32°22.3′N, 16°16.5′W and 33°7.8′N, 17°16.65′W. It is one of the Autonomous regions of Portugal, with Madeira Island and Porto Santo Island being the only inhabited islands. Although it is geographically part of Africa, some 650 km (360 mi) off its coast; it belongs politically and culturally to Europe, some 955 km (583 mi) from the mainland. Madeira, known originally to the Romans as the Purple Islands, was rediscovered, possibly accidentally, by Portuguese sailors some time between 1418 and 1420. The archipelago is considered to be the first discovery of the exploratory period initiated by Henry the Navigator of Portugal. It is a popular year-round resort, noted for its Madeira wine, flowers, and embroidery artisans, as well as its New Year's Eve celebrations that feature a spectacular fireworks show, which is the largest in the world according to the Guinness World Records.[1] Madeira lies 1000kms southwest of Lisbon and 800kms from the coast of Africa. This Portuguese archipelago of volcanic origin was discovered in 1419 by Portuguese navigators. It consists of the island of Madeira, the largest and more populated, and Porto Santo, the second major island of the Madeira archipelago. Funchal, Madeira’s capital, offers cultural heritages, luxurious hotels and a cosmopolitan buzz with its bars, discotheques and casino. But it's charms are the numerous examples of religious architecture: the Cathedral (15th century), with its Manueline pulpit; the churches of Carmo (17th century); Santa Maria Maior (Baroque facade, 16th-17th centuries), all are examples of Portugal's strong religious faith. Early birds are advised to spend a morning at the Mercado dos Lavradores (Market of the Workers) to see the vibrant flower vendors, fishermen, and local terrace farmers who sell an array of local wares (produce, fish, clothing, flowers, baskets, ceramics, prepared food, crafts) not seen anywhere else in Madeira. On the outskirts Funchal at Cabo Girao and Estreito de Camara dos Lobos is Madeira's wine production center. Here the grapes are pressed where they are grown and carried down the hills in goatskin bags by porters. Madeira wine is particularly well known for its high alcohol content and its longevity. The famous Madeira Wine Festival takes place annually in September. Most visitors make a bee-line to Porto Santo, which is easily reached by a boat or plane ride from Madeira. This small island is known for its wide beaches of golden sand along the southern coast. It's ideal for swimming or for long strolls. If you tear yourself from the beach for a day, you will find some minor attractions. Vila Baleira, a sleepy town of whitewashed stucco houses, merits an hour of your time. You'll be following in the footsteps of Christopher Columbus as you make your way along its cobblestone streets.

Renting a car can be an economical way to travel around target and the greater region. There are a few major car hire companies operating in the city, with some firms even offering discounts for rentals of three days and over. Car Hire in target usually comes as a ‘fully inclusive’ package which includes unlimited mileage, collision damage waiver, passenger indemnity insurance and cover for third party, fire and theft - but not usually insurance excess. To rent a car anywhere in Madeira you must show a full driver's licence and a credit card in the driver’s name. Cars are usually rented to customers between the ages of 21 to 70 years. Hiring a car is a great idea if you want to use target as your base for a three day minimum travel experience around the greater region