08-04-2020, 17:16
(08-04-2020, 05:57)Jerome Wrote: When I was in Madeira a couple of years back I could only get there via Lisbon. Apparently there are only certain pilots who are allowed to land at Madeira airport because of cross winds and a fairly short runway. Anyway because I had to go via Lisbon I decided to spend a couple of days there and by chance they had a Fado Festival on the go in the old town. I rented an apartment right round the corner from the main stage in the Old Quarter. Fado is very much an 'in the moment' type of music - like jazz. It's best listened to live. Very vibrant sort of music. But also very emotional and soulful. Bought about 5 CD's of Fado music when I was there. And I have to say Portugal is a fantastic country to visit. People are really polite and friendly and they leave you alone to do your own thing which is rare for a place that sees a lot of tourists. It is also the cheapest holiday I have ever had in Europe. To get to Shannon airport from my home, which is not that far away, cost more than a three day guided tour of Madeira, including a catamaran trip to see the dolphins out at sea. Excellent value for money. I met a lot of Portuguese people who had lived in SA for many years but all left once the new government took over. And you have not had real fish n chips till you've tasted the Madeiran variety. Much better than anything I have ever had in SA, the UK or Ireland. Must try to get back someday. Oh yes that reminds me - the fishermen eat steak with a coffee sauce on top (can't remember the name) when they return to the harbor after being out on the waters all night. An acquired taste for sure!
http://www.thedragonskitchen.com/2012/10...sauce.html
Just noticed the birdsong again this morning. Much clearer without all the usual bloody traffic noise. Makes a nice change.
I have a few friends who live in Portugal now and some who are still planning to go - or were - who knows anymore! Some interesting mountainous areas to the north as well, from photos I've seen. That sauce sounds similar to a mole which is also an acquired taste. Hmmm - prefer my coffee freshly ground and brewed, I think!!
Re birdsong, came across this today - https://coneixelriu.museudelter.cat/ocells.php
"The surest sign that intelligent life exists elsewhere in the universe is that it has never tried to contact us." ~ Bill Watterson