- About nature and weather
- Is it easier to get to Tenerife or Madeira?
- Where to stay?
- Islands cuisine
- Shopping
- What to see?
It is rather difficult to compare Portuguese Madeira with the Canary Islands and, in particular, with Tenerife - these two recognized resorts have too different "mood". Thus, the oldest resort in Portugal bears the imprint of elitism, and the cheerful island of Tenerife has gained fame for its hospitality and entertainment for every taste and age. However, these two territories have one thing in common - a wonderful climate and excellent infrastructure. What else do you need for a tourist on vacation?
About nature and weather
The attraction of Tenerife can be called its sands, in particular, in Playa de la Arena. Some are ready to attribute even healing properties to these sands. In fact, the sandy beaches of these places are truly unique in their cleanliness and length. Windy weather and high waves make the area a surfer's paradise, while the warm, tranquil lagoons attract couples with children. In general, there is a place for everyone under the warm Canarian sun.
By the way, about the sun. Here it is almost always, like the air temperature, which is stable and during the year is kept at around + 20-25. So the swimming season never ends.
As for Madeira, here the beaches are quite tense. Some argue that you can find up to forty of them all along the coast, which, in general, is doubtful. The Madeira archipelago is of volcanic origin, so the main attraction of nature there is the rocks by the water, and not the sandy beaches. You can swim only where there are equipped exits to the ocean, as well as in the pools - they are found in almost every hotel of a decent level. And the weather in Madeira is perfect. There is practically no rain, the temperature is even, in winter from +15 and above, and in summer it is consistently comfortable +26.
Is it easier to get to Tenerife or Madeira?
In both resorts, the main mode of transport for tourists is airplane. Both points have a couple of international airports - in Tenerife, these are North and South (the latter accepts flights from Russia), In Madeira, there are airports in Porto Santo and Funchal. There are direct flights from Moscow. Ferry is also considered an alternative mode of transport, but the services are quite expensive. The ferry is more often used for internal movements within the territory. For this, there is a well-developed network of highways.
Where to stay?
Tenerife hotels are snapped up at any time of the year, so you will have to book in advance. The stars correspond to the level, but in principle, good quality of services can be obtained both in a hotel with five stars, and with two. A wide range of services and comfort distinguish all hotels, you can find both chic offers and a selection of hotels for guests with a more modest income.
Hotels in Madeira are more family oriented and relaxed. Slowly, with high quality, offering the services of numerous thalassotherapy centers. Let there be no direct access to the sea, but the treatment procedures and calmness and silence compensate for this small drawback.
Islands cuisine
We can say that in terms of prices, food in Tenerife is more democratic than in Madeira. Canarian cuisine interspersed with continental European, with a tangible influence of Thai traditions and Brazilian exoticism - you will find all this in the cheerful Canary Islands. A dinner with wine per person will cost 20-40 euros, and the street fast food there is also of high quality.
In Madeira, restaurant prices are above average, but the exotic and beautiful views of the surroundings are worth it. They offer quality food from seafood, exotic fruits and exquisite meat and fish delicacies. An excellent addition to cold seafood dishes will be young, it is also "green" wine and the famous Madeira.
Shopping
A shopaholic's paradise is Tenerife. There is a free economic zone here, because goods are significantly cheaper than on the mainland. When going on vacation in Tenerife, take an almost empty suitcase - in numerous shopping centers and shops there is everything you need, and even more. And in the season of discounts, there are especially good offers up to 70 percent lower than comparable Russian prices. There are a couple of shopping malls in Madeira, but don't expect a dizzying shopping experience.
What to see?
Tenerife has a huge selection of various places that attract holidaymakers. This is Loro Park, which combines a zoo, a dolphinarium and an oceanarium, and a National Park with lunar landscapes, and islands scattered in the vicinity, and dance and music shows.
Madeira is good for historical and natural monuments, architectural landmarks like the Franciscan monastery of the 16th century. And, of course, Madeira is a place where everything is steeped in the culture of Portugal, the history of the island, local characteristics and traditions. It is not for nothing that this particular resort receives annually hundreds of thousands of visitors from different countries of the world.
Portuguese Madeira is worth a trip to those who:
- looking for a leisurely quiet rest against the backdrop of the grandiose beauty of nature;
- accustomed to elite quality rest;
- spares no money for high-quality cuisine with elements of local Portuguese exoticism;
- wants to receive a course of thalassotherapy;
- dreams of enjoying a wonderful healing climate and magnificent rocky views.
Your way to Tenerife if you:
- fan of beach pastime;
- lover of sea walks and active recreation on the water;
- lover of authentic Canarian cuisine;
- shopaholic with experience;
- lover of night walks and a variety of daytime entertainment.
