Hidden Gems of the
Atlantic & Africa

Lisbon

Lisbon has somewhat rediscovered itself in recent years,
reclaiming its rightful place as the 'golden city' of southern
Europe. Much of this is due to the officials of Lisbon having
elected to rejuvenate the city during the 1990s. This ongoing focus
on the future has meant making the most of the attractions, both
old and new.

One day can span centuries as visitors move between the
picturesque medieval section of the Alfama district and historic
São Jorge castle to being amazed by the spectacle of the futuristic
Oceanarium of Lisboa.

Infrastructure has also been improved, with additions like the
impressive Vasco da Gama Bridge across the River Tagus, which links
the city's airport to a network of national motorways and has
facilitated access to other parts of Portugal. There is also a new
showcase railway hub, the Gare de Oriente, which is the pride of a
new modern suburb on the east bank of the Tagus, creating an even
better link between Lisbon and the rest of Europe. But if tourists
really want to see the city in style, they must be sure not to miss
a ride on the famous Tram 28, which winds its way through the
oldest parts of the city and gives visitors a feel of the history
and rich culture Lisbon has to offer.

Porto Santo Island

Porto Santo Island is a hidden gem in the country of Portugal, located in the Madeira archipelago. With its pristine golden beaches, breathtaking landscapes, and rich historical heritage, Porto Santo Island attracts visitors from all over the world seeking relaxation, adventure, and exploration.

Known as the "Golden Island," Porto Santo is renowned for its 9-kilometer long sandy beach, considered one of the finest in Europe. The warm and crystal-clear waters of the Atlantic Ocean are perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and various water sports activities. Relaxing on the beach and soaking up the sun is a popular pastime, especially given the island's subtropical climate with mild temperatures throughout the year.

Apart from its stunning beaches, Porto Santo is also known for its unique natural scenery. The island offers fantastic opportunities for hiking and exploring its rugged landscapes. The Pico do Facho, the highest peak on the island, provides panoramic views of the surrounding sea and landscapes. Nature lovers can also visit the Rocha do Navio natural reserve, home to a variety of plants and bird species.

While Porto Santo is a small island, it has a rich history and cultural heritage. The island was discovered by Portuguese explorers in the 15th century and became an important trading post. History enthusiasts can visit the Christopher Columbus House Museum, the house where the explorer lived, and learn about his connection to the island. The Porto Santo Museum offers insight into the island's history, including its volcanic origins, archaeological findings, and traditional culture.

The main town on the island is Vila Baleira, a charming and picturesque town with a relaxed atmosphere. The town's narrow cobbled streets are lined with traditional white-walled houses and colorful gardens, giving it a distinctive Mediterranean feel. Visitors can explore the town's historic center, visit the local market, and dine in the traditional restaurants that serve regional delicacies such as the famous "limpets" and "bolo do caco" bread.

For those seeking adventure, Porto Santo Island offers a range of activities to satisfy all interests. The island's clear waters are perfect for diving and snorkeling, allowing visitors to explore the fascinating underwater world and discover colorful marine life. The island's wind conditions also make it an excellent spot for windsurfing and kitesurfing.

Being only a short boat ride away from Madeira Island, Porto Santo is an ideal destination for a day trip. Visitors can take a ferry from the harbor in Vila Baleira and explore the larger and more vibrant island of Madeira. Madeira is known for its lush landscapes, impressive cliffs, and charming capital city of Funchal, making it a perfect addition to a trip to Porto Santo.

In conclusion, Porto Santo Island is a true paradise for beach lovers, nature enthusiasts, history buffs, and those seeking adventure. With its pristine golden beaches, stunning landscapes, rich history, and range of activities, Porto Santo is an ideal destination for anyone looking for a unique and unforgettable experience. So pack your bags and get ready to discover the beauty and tranquility of Porto Santo Island.

Funchal, Madeira

Funchal is the capital and largest city on the island of
Madeira, off the coast of Portugal. Home to just over 100,000
people, the city was founded in 1424 and quickly became an
important port of call for European ships.

Named for the abundant fennel trees in the area, Funchal has
many beautiful parks and gardens, including the Madeira Botanical
Gardens, which offer a stunning view of the city as well as more
than 2,000 species of plant life. This is also a stopping point for
the Funchal Cable Car, which goes up the mountain to Monte. The
Madeira Botanical Gardens is one of the most popular attractions in
Funchal, but also worth a visit are the Jardins Do Palheiro and the
Monte Palace Hotel Gardens.

Funchal is home to lovely old buildings and cultural sites,
including the 15th-century Santa Clara Convent, the São Lourenço
Palace, the Colegio Church, and Sé Cathedral. However, even
aimlessly wandering through the 'Old' city centre is a pleasant way
to spend a day, with the port and promenade, and numerous shops,
cafés and restaurants lining the winding streets.

The city is known for its excellent cuisine and local Madeira
wine, and foodies will have no trouble finding treats like fresh
seafood and baked goods to satisfy their appetites. To burn off
those calories, there are plenty of active pursuits to enjoy in
Funchal including golf, swimming, paragliding, boat trips, and the
unforgettable Levada Walks.

Funchal, Madeira

Funchal is the capital and largest city on the island of
Madeira, off the coast of Portugal. Home to just over 100,000
people, the city was founded in 1424 and quickly became an
important port of call for European ships.

Named for the abundant fennel trees in the area, Funchal has
many beautiful parks and gardens, including the Madeira Botanical
Gardens, which offer a stunning view of the city as well as more
than 2,000 species of plant life. This is also a stopping point for
the Funchal Cable Car, which goes up the mountain to Monte. The
Madeira Botanical Gardens is one of the most popular attractions in
Funchal, but also worth a visit are the Jardins Do Palheiro and the
Monte Palace Hotel Gardens.

Funchal is home to lovely old buildings and cultural sites,
including the 15th-century Santa Clara Convent, the São Lourenço
Palace, the Colegio Church, and Sé Cathedral. However, even
aimlessly wandering through the 'Old' city centre is a pleasant way
to spend a day, with the port and promenade, and numerous shops,
cafés and restaurants lining the winding streets.

The city is known for its excellent cuisine and local Madeira
wine, and foodies will have no trouble finding treats like fresh
seafood and baked goods to satisfy their appetites. To burn off
those calories, there are plenty of active pursuits to enjoy in
Funchal including golf, swimming, paragliding, boat trips, and the
unforgettable Levada Walks.

Santa Cruz de La Palma

Also known as ‘La Isla Bonita’ (the beautiful island), La Palma is typified by lush forests of pine, laurel and fern which contrast with the rugged splendour of the gigantic Taburiente crater. The island is dotted with attractive villages, which are a delight to discover, and the capital Santa Cruz also makes for an interesting day of exploration. Perched on the edge of the volcanic crater of La Caldereta, Santa Cruz comfortably blends modern architecture with old colonial buildings. Perhaps visit the fascinating Natural History Museum, stroll around the historic quarters and the Plaza de Espana or travel a few miles outside the city to the exquisite Church of Our Lady. If you enjoy shopping, you can find reasonably priced silver jewellery, leather goods and beautifully embroidered clothes, tablecloths and napkins, a speciality of the Canary Islands.

Las Palmas de Gran Canaria

The third largest but most developed of the seven
islands in the Spanish-administered Canary archipelago, Gran
Canaria has been billed as a miniature continent because of the
variety of climates and landscapes that it offers, from the big
city bustle of the capital, Las Palmas, to the serenity of its lush
woodlands.

The Canary Islands lie in the Atlantic Ocean, about
125 miles (200km) from the African coast and almost 800 miles
(1,280km) from the closest European port of Cadiz. Gran Canaria is
almost circular, with a diameter of about 32 miles (50km), and is
characterised by deep ravines that radiate out from the centre down
to the coast.

The north of the island is humid and lush, with green
valleys and volcanic craters, while the south is arid and
desert-like, with vast stretches of sandy beach. The interior of
Gran Canaria has steep highlands dotted with small villages,
sporting white houses with red roofs, banana plantations, and
orchards bursting with tropical fruits.

Tourists generally favour the southern coastline,
flocking to the well-known beaches of Playa del Inglés or
Maspalomas, where the sea washes soft sands and empty dunes stretch
for miles. The capital, Las Palmas, lies on the northeast tip of
the island, between two long beaches, Las Caletas, and
Alcaravaneras.

Santa Cruz de Tenerife

The largest of the Canary Islands, Tenerife is a beautiful and scenic island which enjoys year-round sunshine and is dominated by Mount Teide. The mountain range runs through the centre of the island, with fertile valleys on the northern side. In the central part of the range is the gigantic natural crater of the Cañadas del Teide, about 14 miles in diameter. Santa Cruz, the island’s pretty capital, was originally a small fishing village but has now grown into a modern city, and also contains 16th-century civic buildings and ornate private mansions. Near the pier is the Santa Cruz Palmetum, a Botanical Garden covering an area of 29 acres, specialising in palms.

Mindelo, São Vicente Island

Your next stop will be Cape Verde’s cultural capital, Mindelo. Get along with the locals listening to the real morna in the bars of the old town and sipping the local drink, a sugarcane spirit. This island is also known by its British and Portuguese colonial architecture and pastel-coloured houses, the municipal market and the facades of the old Governor’s Palace.

Praia, Santiago Island

Start your Expedition Cruise in Praia, the capital of Cape Verde, located in the south of Santiago Island. You can explore its old centre overlooking the ocean and its historical buildings with transom windows. In the old quarter, you can also learn about the diversity of the archipelago’s cultural origins in the Ethnographic Museum. To finish your day, head to the harbour to visit the Diogo Gomes statue, paying homage to the man who discovered the archipelago in 1460.

Dakar

Situated on the tip of the Cape Verde
Peninsula in western Senegal, Dakar is a surprisingly lively and
bustling capital. It boasts luxurious hotels, beaches and
watersports, as well as casinos, a wide range of restaurants and an
active nightlife scene. This modern metro is also one of the
busiest ports for cruise ships in Africa.

Dakar has always been the capital city of
the country, including during the three centuries of French
colonialism and also since independence in 1960. The country has
retained strong ties with France, with strong French influence
still visible in the architecture of the city, where well-preserved
colonial buildings, the monumental government house and café
terraces stand testimony to its past.

For history enthusiasts, Gorée Island, a
UNESCO Historical Monument, is a must-see. Here, the painful and
violent truths of Senegal's slave trade past comes alive in 'La
Maison des Enclaves' with its cells, shackles and slave dealers'
apartments. There are also the many museums housed in former slave
houses, and the forts built to protect the lucrative business.

The architecture in central Dakar is an
attraction in itself; there are some beautiful buildings in and
around the city, including the city's cathedral and grand mosque.
However, the most famous site in Dakar is the controversial African
Renaissance Monument, a massive sculpture representing Africa's
emergence from slavery and colonialism.

Another great way to enjoy an afternoon in
Dakar is by browsing the busy markets or having a picnic in one of
the beautiful parks. Hann Park and Zoo is a great place to take the
kids, and the astonishing colours of Lake Retba make for a
beautiful and intriguing sight for visitors of all ages.

Dakar is a mixture of the old and the new,
retaining its traditional values while also developing into the
country's main economic hub. Those interested in the history of the
region will not be disappointed, as it actively engages and
explores its history under slavery and colonial oppression.