Adalar, Princes' Islands - One night It all started with 'Let's get lost in Istanbul'. It was Friday at noon on the 22nd of October. This weekend reminded us why we travel. Found the first ferry, and two hours later, we were in Adalar, one of the nine Princes' Islands of Istanbul. We thought it was about a half-hour cruise... Our ferry ride with Beşıktaş Iskelesi Ferry Very comfortable and spacious ferry to Adalar, one of the Princes' Islands, in just under 2 hours, you arrive. You first board in Beshiktas and make a few stops along the Bosphorus, where you can enjoy beautiful views of Istanbul before heading to the island. It all started with 'Let's get lost in Istanbul' You also have a catering service that offers juice, coffee, tea, and a snack. Beware, these are chargeable and quite expensive at 50 TRY for a juice and a basic toasted panini. The ferry ticket costs only 15 TRY (AUD 1.60), making it a very cheap way to reach the island. You can spend a day easily strolling around and enjoying the dining on Adalar. However, our story was a little different. The island was a nice, calm escape from the intensity of Istanbul, with only electric transport, think Hamilton Island, QLD, Australia. Time for lunch. After a quick Google search, we found a secret garden restaurant called 'Secret Garden Restaurant Büyükada', where we enjoyed excellent Turkish food. After lunch, we found Palya Cafe, a cosy bar where we enjoyed a Shisha and soaked up the view before our ferry home. It all started with 'Let's get lost in Istanbul' We started chatting away with our delightful waiter, Hedayat. He recently came over from Afghanistan, listened intently to his stories, and talked about the power of positivity. After meeting a few couples/families from Iran (along with our new furry friend) and taking some happy snaps, chatting via Google Translate, we decided to book a hotel, AscotBBüyükadayukada, which we did instantly via Hotels.com. Checked in, and it was time to try Liman Restaurant, where we had passed earlier. With live music and being a Turkish grill, we were not disappointed. It all started with 'Let's get lost in Istanbul' The next day,y we were up and about (in the same clothes) to explore the beautiful architecture and views of the island. Found a lovely boutique to purchase new clothes, as it's starting to get chilly, so it's time to stock up on winter clothes. Another delicious lunch back at Liman Restaurant, the same restaurant from the night before, to the ferry home (connecting with more lovely Iranians) during the sunset over the Bosphorus A perfect getaway to Adalar, one of the nine Princes' Islands in Istanbul. It all started with 'Let's get lost in Istanbul'

A weekend of snow, sun, wine and food, enough said (ok, I'll be honest, I still need to complete this blog). Weekend in Zermatt - Switzerland However, look at the incredible photographs from the weekend.

In the final week of our 13-week Pole to Pole cruise on the MS Roald Amundsen with Hurtigruten Expeditions, we will experience the great white wonder of the world and our seventh continent—Antarctica. Day 85 - At Sea, Cape Horn & Drake Passage We started the day with the news we had been waiting for for over 85 days: we won the lottery for kayaking in Antarctica and were in Group A, which provided us with the highest chance to get out on the water should the weather permit. We were very fortunate, as most of the 400 passengers also had this activity. With only four landings scheduled, a maximum of two sessions per landing, and eight kayaks per session, you do the math. Crossing the Drake Passage takes about two days. Over the past few months, we have heard so many horror stories from fellow passengers who have experienced the Drake Shake that we were very fortunate to be blessed with the Drake Lake for our crossing. HX Hurtigruten Expeditions Pole to Pole Yesterday, we were scheduled for a landing on Cape Horn. Unfortunately, the winds were too strong, resulting in a no-go, so we continued our path to the Antarctic Peninsula. When we first set out on this cruise, we were unaware that the chances of landing on the mainland of Antarctica were meagre, as we had booked a Pole-to-Pole cruise. As most are quick to let you know, our landings would be on the South Shetland Islands and the Antarctic Peninsula; claiming this is not Antarctica; therefore, you haven't visited Antarctica. Although we suggest otherwise, as we have come this far, the peninsula is part of visiting Antarctica in our book; it is part of the mainland. It's a little like you have seen Tasmania, and then you find out you haven't been to Australia, or you have been to Koh Samui, but have you been to Thailand? Yes, of course! Today was making the most of the ocean before the big arrival. HX Hurtigruten Expeditions Pole to Pole Day 86 - Half Moon Island, South Shetland Islands, Antarctica Welcome to our final continent; all seven are now ticked off! This continent has always been on our bucket list, and finally, our dream of setting foot on the icy continent of Antarctica has been fulfilled. HX Hurtigruten Expeditions Pole to Pole As the fog lifted this morning to present the majestic views, they were breathtaking, like nothing we have ever seen. HX Hurtigruten Expeditions Pole to Pole HX Hurtigruten Expeditions Pole to Pole Blessed to be joined by the sun and blue skies, we cruised closer to the first land we had seen over the past few days. The pictures were priceless and a great taster of what was to come. HX Hurtigruten Expeditions Pole to Pole There is so much ice! The elevations were surprising; these mountains are enormous! We later learned Antarctica has the highest average height in the world. HX Hurtigruten Expeditions Pole to Pole Our kayaking adventure was postponed due to the stronger winds, so we layered up for the landing on Half Moon Island. As we approached the island, we could see all the little penguins and spotted a few whales, so we were excited! Especially as it is usually too early in the season for whales. The landing took us to a place where we could get up close and personal with the penguins. There are two breeds: the main colony is made up of chinstraps, who come to breed (up to 15,000 eventually), and then the Gentoos, who come to hang out by the water. HX Hurtigruten Expeditions Pole to Pole HX Hurtigruten Expeditions Pole to Pole HX Hurtigruten Expeditions Pole to Pole They were adorable and clumsy as they went to the sea to feed, constantly tripping over their little feet; you could sit by and watch them all day. We humans didn't seem to bother them, so they continued getting on with their day. HX Hurtigruten Expeditions Pole to Pole HX Hurtigruten Expeditions Pole to Pole It was cold, around zero, so thankfully, we layered up and enjoyed the hour on land. We were mesmerised by the natural wonder and adorable penguins surrounding us. As we were leaving, we sat with the penguins, just enjoying being near these birds full of character; overlooking the following for a giggle, the one on the left. HX Hurtigruten Expeditions Pole to Pole We can't wait for the next few days to experience this majestic place on Earth. HX Hurtigruten Expeditions Pole to Pole Day 87 - Wilhelmina Bay, Antarctica Today was fascinating; let's start in reverse! Heavy snow set in during dinner, and we scored a window table to ensure we could experience heavy snowfall while cruising. This was the first time we had been on a cruise and on the ocean with snow; it was surreal and beautiful, especially in Antarctica. HX Hurtigruten Expeditions Pole to Pole It was heavy snow, and the snowflakes were the size of a cotton plant; it was what movies and picture books are made about. As dinner progressed, the deep blue ocean that engulfed us turned a foggy grey; it was freezing over as the snow settled, and a thin layer of sea ice lay beneath us. Let's jump back to the morning. It was an early start, as our Kayaking was scheduled; take two. We made sure to fill our bellies, and during breakfast, the news came that it was cancelled. The weather was changing rapidly, and snow was making its presence known. We did enjoy the morning show, with the seals relaxing on the icebergs as we cruised by. HX Hurtigruten Expeditions Pole to Pole The ship quickly changed course from our original destination, Orne Harbour, to a new location, Wilhelmina Bay, where we could launch the zodiacs and all take a scenic cruise through the sea ice and flows, within inches of the icebergs. Before lunch, we explored the ship, and seeing it covered in snow was a surreal experience. HX Hurtigruten Expeditions Pole to Pole HX Hurtigruten Expeditions Pole to Pole HX Hurtigruten Expeditions Pole to Pole After lunch, we geared up. As the snow settled in, we loved popping back to our room to measure the snowfall. It felt like a winter wonderland with snow filling your balcony, a little like Christmas. We love it. HX Hurtigruten Expeditions Pole to Pole HX Hurtigruten Expeditions Pole to Pole Brendan was our host and Zodiac driver through the sea ice for one hour. He provided us with many insights into the icebergs and sea ice, and all about the nearby birdlife, as he expertly dodged and wove through the ice flows and icebergs with limited visibility. HX Hurtigruten Expeditions Pole to Pole Being part of the sea as it began to ice up was also fascinating. It has the same texture as a slushy; the water on the surface becomes a light shade of grey and is mushy. HX Hurtigruten Expeditions Pole to Pole HX Hurtigruten Expeditions Pole to Pole HX Hurtigruten Expeditions Pole to Pole HX Hurtigruten Expeditions Pole to Pole HX Hurtigruten Expeditions Pole to Pole Great work, and thank you, Brendan, for keeping us safe. After being woken up on the water and showered with snow, we returned to the ship to warm up, prepare for dinner, and wait for the boat to reveal our next destination as we explore Antarctica. Unfortunately, the passengers who had booked camping on the ice due to the weather also had their bookings cancelled. Day 88 - Neko Harbour, Antarctica Will we kayak in Antarctica? It is becoming a million-dollar question. It was another early morning for take 3 for us kayakers who were the fortunate ones in Group A (this means we were first to kayak before all other groups). It was 8.05 a.m., so it was time to pop into our cold suits; one leg in, the announcement popped up that it had been cancelled, and the wind was picking up. So close! HX Hurtigruten Expeditions Pole to Pole Fortunately, the zodiac was still on, and we happened to be in the first group of the day, so we dressed up for the cruising and went down to the expedition landing. We were first on the boats and were surprised to find it a little warmer than yesterday. It was much more civilised, with only light snow dust. We navigated the sea ice and enormous icebergs for sealife; penguins were the day's target. HX Hurtigruten Expeditions Pole to Pole The icebergs glistened in the water as the sun peeked through the clouds. Just remember that the visible part of the iceberg is only 10-20% of its actual size, so most icebergs live underwater. We could see the entire length with the water pristine, and it was just wow! HX Hurtigruten Expeditions Pole to Pole On the way back to the ship, we came across a sensational raft of gentoo penguins. HX Hurtigruten Expeditions Pole to Pole HX Hurtigruten Expeditions Pole to Pole Forty-five minutes later, we were back on the ship. The weather was closing in, and the captain was concerned that the sea ice on the boat could ice us in the harbour, so it was time to pack up and move on. HX Hurtigruten Expeditions Pole to Pole We made our way to Danco Bay, and a 4-hour Kayaking trip was scheduled, fingers crossed. The ship changed direction again, and a new destination was on the map until the wind blessed us with her presence, reaching up to 90 knots at one point. So, the ship maintained its position to keep us all comfortable and to wait out Mother Nature. HX Hurtigruten Expeditions Pole to Pole HX Hurtigruten Expeditions Pole to Pole Later in the evening, she cruised along Antarctica's majestic coastline, filling our senses with icy mountain peaks and wonders. We sailed into Damoy Point, a rocky headland on the west coast of Wiencke Island, and were even more delighted by the size of the glaciers. HX Hurtigruten Expeditions Pole to Pole The ship decided to spend the evening in Antarctica because the weather was good and activities looked promising for tomorrow, our last day there. Let's go Kayaking! HX Hurtigruten Expeditions Pole to Pole Today was spent enjoying the changing weather and genuinely appreciating its perils. I was fortunate to sneak in a 'patchy video' call to Mum and Dad to share my experience of the world's wonders. Day 89 - Dorian Bay, Antarctica The million-dollar question has been answered, and we have hit the 'Kayaking in Antarctica' jackpot! 🛶 This morning, we woke early to calm waters and weather. It was five, and we were optimistic it would happen! HX Hurtigruten Expeditions Pole to Pole With our cold suits and by going straight to the meeting point, we wasted no time. The sooner we were on the water, the sooner it became a reality. Fourteen of our fellow kayakers were on the same page, and everyone was ready. We were given the finishing touches to our Kayaking outfit: a unique life jacket and gloves to keep us dry and, hopefully, warm. We piled into the zodiacs for a short five-minute cruise across to the waiting kayaks, and one by one, we were loaded into our kayaks, two per kayak. Wayne was in the back, and I was seated up front as the head photographer. That's fine by me, as poor hubby would need to do all the paddling (which, after learning my rhythm, he much preferred to take control of). Before we embarked on this magical experience through sea ice, we had a quick practice and 101 on manoeuvring the kayak and, of course, staying above the water. HX Hurtigruten Expeditions Pole to Pole This moment was one we had been waiting for. It has been nearly 90 days since we departed Vancouver, and we were hoping to kayak in the Arctic Circle; unfortunately, the weather kept closing off opportunities. The paddling commenced, and it was surreal. We were all lined up, navigating the water's surface through large chunks of sea ice; the paddles driving through the ice sounded eerie, yet were surreal and peaceful. HX Hurtigruten Expeditions Pole to Pole HX Hurtigruten Expeditions Pole to Pole We arrived at the most magnificent turquoise iceberg to capture pictures up close and personal. HX Hurtigruten Expeditions Pole to Pole Unbeknownst to us, this same iceberg would calve and start tipping over a few hours later, which we were fortunate to witness from our balcony - play with sound. HX Hurtigruten Expeditions Pole to Pole HX Hurtigruten Expeditions Pole to Pole We continued closer to Damoy Point, a research station home to a Gentoo penguin colony. The station was being prepared for the arrival of four female researchers in a few weeks, so we all floated amongst the sea ice and bergs to enjoy the serenity, overshadowed by dramatic icy mountain peaks, where they would spend the summer. HX Hurtigruten Expeditions Pole to Pole HX Hurtigruten Expeditions Pole to Pole HX Hurtigruten Expeditions Pole to Pole We watched the penguins go about their day, swimming and diving, waddling, and even swimming beneath our kayaks in the crystal waters. It was one of those magical moments that will remain with you forever. HX Hurtigruten Expeditions Pole to Pole HX Hurtigruten Expeditions Pole to Pole After about 1.5 hours, we returned through the sea ice. We were all becoming familiar with paddling through (or, in my case, my darling hubby was); I was too busy trying to get my little fingers and toes to circulate again and keep the phone from going for a swim in below-zero waters. HX Hurtigruten Expeditions Pole to Pole We approached the ship and waited for our zodiacs to pick us up and take us back to our cosy cabins; they were running a little behind, so we took the opportunity to row around the ship. It was magnificent to experience this impressive vessel from the exterior and at the water level; it was surreal. Once we reached the stern, we were soon picked up and returned to the ship. Thank you to Molly and Orto from the Expedition team for a memorable kayaking experience in Antarctica; it was the perfect ending to our three months onboard. The afternoon was spent enjoying a lazy lunch, reviewing the incredible photos we captured, and celebrating having ticked off another bucket-list experience. Kudos to Hurtigruten Expeditions for being the first cruise ship to launch Kayaking in Antarctica this summer; we were the first group out on the water this season 👏 We were scheduled for a Zodiac landing later in the evening to walk through the snow and see another penguin colony, but we opted out because it was on the peninsula. We were all hoping it was on the mainland; therefore, we wanted to stay on our natural high from the morning, as it was our perfect ending to Antarctica. HX Hurtigruten Expeditions Pole to Pole Dinner was spent back in Lindstrom chatting with our new Aussie friends and enjoying drinks as we entered the Drake Passage. We kept our fingers crossed that it would bless us with a crossing of the 'Drake Lake', not the 'Drake Shake'. Day 90 - Drake Passage The Lake is slowly becoming the Shake! Therefore, it has been a slow day. We enjoyed lunch and a bottle of wine; we spent the afternoon hiding away in the suite to stay horizontal! We find it much easier on the body; the motion sickness creeps in as soon as you wander around. Fortunately, it takes quite a rocky ship now to upset us, and we know how to avoid it! Dinner was quick, and back to bed! One of those days! A little penguin love and kayaking highlights; I hope it gives you as much joy as it does me:-) HX Hurtigruten Expeditions Pole to Pole HX Hurtigruten Expeditions Pole to Pole Day 91 - Drake Passage This marks our last day at sea for three months. Fortunately, the Drake was easing up as we approached land around noon. We enjoyed our last day over a lazy lunch at Fredheim, thanking the team and preparing to pack our cases and disembark for the morning. Before dinner, we enjoyed catching up with the Pole-to-Pole guests at the captain's farewell; drinks flowed as everyone shared the unused bottles of bubbles and shipboard credit, which you can't take with you. This was followed by a fun evening with a group of lovely Aussies we met on this segment; the crew entertained us with laughter. We were incredibly grateful to the lovely crew, who cared for us throughout the cruise; you all made our trip more delightful. Thank you, team; we will miss your friendly smiles and daily chats. HX Hurtigruten Expeditions Pole to Pole Beautiful moonlight glistened over the ocean as our next and final destination, Ushuaia, welcomed us. Thank you for travelling with us as we embarked three months ago on our 'once-in-a-lifetime' cruise from North to South Pole; we hope you enjoyed our travel moments as much as we enjoyed visiting parts of the world on our bucket list. Join us for our next adventure, the 'Argentina Chapter', a month-long exploration of a new part of the world.

It was fascinating, especially as we experienced the visitor centre of the Gatun Locks chambers of the Panama Canal from the shore the day prior in Colon. Panama Canal - Panama Fun facts: Until 1979, Colon was part of America. US citizens can retire back in Colon and receive 20 years of tax-free income. 80% of Panama City is Chinese due to the construction of the railway, and 80% of Colon is from Barbados and Jamaica due to the canal. Every little town has a different influence. Ships transiting through the canals pay for all containers/cabins, whether occupied or empty. On average, it is 350k per ship to transit the canal. The canals generate an average of $ 12- $ 15 million in revenue daily, and the minimum wage is $600 per month. A dry canal refers to offloading containers at port and then using rail to transport the cargo, with another ship waiting to collect on the other side to continue the move. Some companies want to save dollars and opt for a dry canal. The The Panama Canal was inaugurated in 1914; for 85 years, the US operated it and maintained government control. In 1999, the canal was transferred to Panama; they now operate and manage the route. A new lock was built to transport more cargo, and more than 40,000 workers were involved in its construction. The larger canal was inaugurated in 2016. The old canal does not recycle water; the new one uses the same water three times, then refreshes it to avoid pollution and only recycles in the dry season. Fifty-two million gallons of water are released from the lake each transit in the old canal. Up to 10,000 people work in the canal today; the best salaries in Panama are from the canal; the top level is 500k a year for pilots. Panama Canal Transit Today was the transit through the Panama Canal, an experience both Wayne and I have had on our bucket list for over 15 years. We booked a cruise in 2009 but decided to change our plans and postponed the cruise (which never eventuated). Panama Canal - Panama We were advised we would be entering Gatun Lock (the Atlantic exit) at 8.45 am, so we set the alarm and were up and ready. The ship was on schedule, and we commenced our entry into the first chamber (as we are a smaller ship, the old canal chambers were for us); there were three in total, and we were supported by a tug boat at the front and rear, along with the mules (locomotive trains). It takes about one hour to go through the three chambers, as you experience the waters within them, with gravity raising you to the same level so that we can continue our transit to the South Pacific. Panama Canal - Panama The day was spent cruising through the Panama Canal, with luscious green jungle scenery for the next five hours. We enjoyed this from Lindstrom Restaurant on the ship, then on our balcony; it was warm and humid, but a once-in-a-lifetime experience. We captured many videos and pictures! We arrived at Miraflores Lock (the Pacific entrance) around 5 pm, and the same process to enter, lower and exit the chambers; this was perfect timing to call my Mum and Dad in Australia, who also wanted to share this moment with us; they were also able to enjoy it over the wifi. However, some video footage was blurry, but it didn't ruin the moment. Panama Canal - Panama Panama Canal - Panama Once through the last of the chambers, we had completed our entry into the Pacific Ocean; it was a beautiful evening, blessed with a vivid and colourful sunset, set against a backdrop of ships all waiting their turn to cross into the Atlantic Ocean. After experiencing the Panama Canal locks from both outside and inside the ship, we felt the visit to watch the ships transit the locks was much more enjoyable; once on the ship, it is difficult to understand the full power of the process due to visibility, but all the same, we loved having the chance to experience both sides. Panama Canal - Panama

Taupo Bungy I'm scared of heights, and, of course, while at Xerocon 2011 in New Zealand, the CEO of Xero, Rod Drury, made a bet with me to go on a bungee jump. This is possibly the world's slowest Bungy (bungee) jump. It took nearly ten minutes from when I was attached to the Bungy to the actual jump. 🤦 Let's spare you the tedium of watching Taupo Bungy's fantastic team get me to jump. First and Only Bungy Jump - New Zealand

Macedonia 🇲🇰, you are a magical country, one that we hold very close to our hearts. Friends of Macedonia The beautiful friendships, the kindness, and the generosity of everyone we met will stay with us forever. We are incredibly grateful to have experienced it all with you. A very special thank you to our wonderful friends for making our time in Macedonia extraordinary and welcoming us into your lives. We will miss you all. 💛❤️💛❤️

Alice Marmaris - Two visits Alice Cocktails & Coffee stands high amongst all the average bars and clubs in Marmaris, Turkey. The mixologists focus on quality over quantity and are passionate about ensuring you experience some simply great quality cocktails. Alice Cocktails & Coffee - Marmaris The team are so warm and friendly that we often stopped by late afternoon to enjoy a sundowner before the crowds came out. They are more than happy to push your boundaries or allow you to taste your classic cocktail (or with their specific twist), We enjoyed all the little touches, like the small free nibbles placed on your table before you ordered your favourite cocktail. There is nothing better than drinking a perfectly made cocktail, served in great glassware, made with premium spirits. Most nights, they have a DJ, and Wayne enjoys dancing with locals and making new friends. The bar is not a huge venue, so the team can focus on drinks and spending time with the guests. Alice Cocktails & Coffee - Marmaris Very reasonable pricing compared to some of the poor experiences we had at other traditional club/bar venues. Don't miss out on the fabulous cocktails, tunes and fun at Alice in Marmaris.

Moretenders' Cocktail Crib - One visit Moretenders' is the true essence of a cocktail bar in the heart of Galata, Istanbul, tucked away in a quiet cobblestoned alleyway. Moretenders' Cocktail Crib - Istanbul The staff exude positive energy in a cosy ambience to sit and enjoy excellent cocktails mixed by the expert staff. The menu will keep you busy experimenting with new and adventurous cocktails. We were impressed by all our selections. A place for locals and tourists alike, and great value, high-quality drinks served with top-shelf ingredients. Great tunes are played in the background to complete the atmosphere. As for cocktail lovers, we definitely recommend a visit to this wonderful establishment.

Bonaca Restaurant & Lounge Bar - Three Visits Wow, this place ticks off so many boxes. This is definitely going to be our go-to beach club in Pula. Bonaca Restaurant & Lounge Bar - Pula Sunsets Live Music Cocktails Fine Food Ocean Beach Club Forget the rest, we've tried them, and they all fall short of this amazing venue. Bonaca Restaurant & Lounge Bar - Pula This is such a great value venue; we ordered two bottles of our favourite Croatian sparkling Medea Brut. The staff are amazing, very warm and welcoming. Bonaca Restaurant & Lounge Bar - Pula Shout out to Pixie for her first day at Bonaca, and she made our day very special. Each night, they have either live music or a DJ on Saturday nights. The set Toni was playing at sunset was a great way to kick back and enjoy those balmy Croatian evenings. We finally ate on our third visit and were not disappointed, great food served with a twist and as always, friendly service.

Our first destination on our 110-day Cunard world cruise on Queen Anne began after departing Southampton and rocking and rolling through the ever-predictable Bay of Biscay. At last, we arrived in Funchal, Madeira, Portugal. Funchal, the vibrant capital of Portugal's Autonomous Region of Madeira, is a city steeped in natural beauty and bustling urban energy. Situated along the expansive Atlantic Ocean, Funchal serves as the largest city and principal economic and cultural hub of Madeira. With a population of 105,000, it ranks as the sixth largest city in Portugal. The city is renowned for its scenic harbour, delightful gardens, and a charming old town area that blends historical architecture with modern amenities. Funchal is not only a major tourist destination but also a living tableau of Madeira's rich heritage. Funchal Madeira - Portugal After three sea days that were far from calm, we were more than ready to disembark and explore a brand-new island for us both. As we approached the port, Funchal revealed itself, bathed in the soft glow of the morning sun, quietly beckoning us ashore. We had our hearts set on the Funchal Cable Car to Carreiros do Monte ranked as one of the world’s seven coolest commutes the iconic toboggan ride back down the hill. Unfortunately, the cable car was undergoing a revamp and out of action until April but undeterred, we quickly booked an Uber to take us straight to the toboggan starting point. where we were fortunate with no queues and purchased tickets on the spot, and great value at €35 for 2 people, it was 1.30pm on a Thursday. This traditional mode of transport, dating back over a hundred years. The Monte Sledges are woven from wicker and set atop two polished wooden runners, each one traditionally handcrafted by skilled artisans. Guiding them are two drivers, the Carreiros, dressed in crisp white and crowned with the iconic straw boater hats. Wearing rubber-soled boots, they skim and steer with practiced ease, pressing their feet to the ground to slow or stop the sledge, turning their own steps into living brakes. Carreiros do Monte As soon as we set off, endorphins surged. The ride was every bit as exhilarating as we’d hoped. The two men propelled the cart to speeds of up to 38kph steering us around sharp bends on the smooth, glossy roads sometimes sharing the space with passing cars. Thrilling doesn’t quite cover it. Afterwards, we made our way back toward town on foot, enjoying the hour-long walk as an opportunity to soak in the sweeping views, striking architecture, and lush floral surroundings that define Funchal. We were drawn into a small patisserie along the way called Ludgero Castro Nunes , where we sampled the famous Portuguese tart. Golden, creamy, and utterly indulgent, it gave us the perfect burst of energy to continue our wander into town. Strolling through the cobblestoned streets, we began to feel the rhythm of the place, the relaxed pace, the warmth, the charm. Funchal felt like a destination you could easily spend a week or more in, lingering over slow mornings with coffee beneath tree-covered courtyards and sampling its wonderful restaurants at leisure.