If you're planning on heading for somewhere warmer over Christmas, why not try Madeira? At this time of the year the weather is mild and the capital city, Funchal, comes alive as it is turned into one big nativity scene.
Funchal's location on the coast, cradled by lush green hills, makes it a natural amphitheatre for the 250,000 coloured light bulbs that are strung around the city in the run-up to Christmas. From December, the city also organises a programme of cultural and artistic events.
On 31 December there are spectacular fireworks displays, and parties in hotels, restaurants, bars and on the street. The celebrations are finally brought to a close on Epiphany (6 January) as the lights are extinguished and taken down for another year.
On 31 December there are spectacular fireworks displays, and parties in hotels, restaurants, bars and on the street. The celebrations are finally brought to a close on Epiphany (6 January) as the lights are extinguished and taken down for another year.
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