Funchal, Madeira
We docked at Funchal on the island of Madeira very early Wednesday morning. Charlie took this photo about 6:20, as we were approaching the city. Unfortunately, the ship rotated just before. docking, so our view was of empty water and sky! Our small-group excursion through Royal Caribbean was called the Foodie and Cultural Walking Tour of Funchal. We reported to the theater at 9:00 and were seated by group. About 9:20, our group of eight was walked out to a van, where we waited and waited, until 9;45, when a driver showed up, got in, and drove away without a word. Usually there is a guide! As it turned out, our lovely guide met us in town, a short drive away. If you ever visit Funchal, be warned that the port is a 45-minute walk from town, so do pay for the shuttle tickets ($15). I didn't catch our guide's name, alas, but she was excellent. As we walked, she gave us a lot of background information and also identified some of the gorgeous trees and plants we passed. Kapok tree i...
