Located off the northwest coast of Africa, the Madeira archipelago is a beautiful and unique group of islands offering a diverse and exciting way of life. Comprising four main islands - Madeira, Porto Santo, Desertas and Selvagens - the archipelago is an autonomous Portuguese region with its own government and a rich history dating back to the 15th century. With its stunning natural beauty, warm climate and strong sense of community, it's no surprise that the Madeira archipelago is a popular place to live. To motivate you, I'm Lisbob, the expat assistant, and I'm unveiling my 9 good reasons for moving to the Madeira archipelago.
Natural beauty
When you think of Madeira, one of the first things that springs to mind is its natural beauty. The Madeira archipelago is a paradise for nature lovers, with its breathtaking landscapes and diverse range of flora and fauna.
The main island is known for its spectacular cliffs and rocky coastline, as well as its mountains and verdant valleys. It is also home to a number of rare and exotic plant species, many of which can only be found in Madeira. The smaller island of Porto Santo is renowned for its long sandy beach and crystal-clear waters, making it a popular spot for swimming and sunbathing.
Warm climate
Located in the subtropical region of the Atlantic Ocean, the Madeira archipelago enjoys a warm, mild climate all year round. With average temperatures ranging from 18 to 25°C, the weather is perfect for outdoor activities and exploring the great outdoors.
The archipelago is also relatively dry, with most precipitation occurring during the winter months. This makes it an ideal destination for those seeking to escape the cold, wet winters of the northern hemisphere.
Gastronomy & wine
The Madeira archipelago is home to a rich and diverse culinary culture, with a range of dishes and ingredients influenced by Portuguese, African and South American cuisines. The region is known for its fresh seafood, including tuna, swordfish and octopus, as well as hearty stews and casseroles prepared with locally grown vegetables and meats. Madeira is also famous for its namesake wine, a fortified wine produced on the island and enjoyed the world over.
Cultural activities
In addition to its natural beauty and delicious cuisine, the Madeira archipelago is also home to a vibrant cultural scene. The main island of Madeira hosts a number of festivals and events throughout the year, including the world-famous Madeira Flower Festival, the Madeira Wine Festival and finally the Madeira Carnival. There are also a number of museums and galleries on the island, showcasing the rich history and culture of the archipelago.
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Outdoor activities
With its breathtaking scenery and ideal climate, the Madeira archipelago is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. The island is home to a number of the world's most spectacular hiking and cycling trails, offering breathtaking views of the coast and mountains.
A number of water sports are also available, including surfing, windsurfing and stand-up paddleboarding. And for those who prefer a more relaxed pace, the archipelago is home to a number of beautiful parks and gardens, perfect for picnics and relaxation.
Community
Moving abroad can sometimes be lonely, but not in Madeira. Despite its popularity as a tourist destination, the archipelago remains a close-knit community with a strong sense of belonging. The islands are home to a wide range of cultural and social groups, including sports clubs, music and arts associations and community organizations.
This strong sense of community makes it easy to get involved and connect with others, whether you're a long-time resident or a newcomer to the island. It also contributes to a sense of safety and security, as people look out for and support each other. All in all, Madeira's strong sense of community is one of the things that makes it such a special and welcoming place to live.
9 good reasons to live in Madeira in Portugal
Employment opportunities
Despite its small size, the Madeira archipelago has enjoyed sustained economic growth in recent years, with numerous job opportunities in a variety of sectors. Tourism is a major contributor to the island's economy, with a range of hotels, restaurants and tourist attractions offering jobs.
There are also opportunities in the construction industry, as the island undergoes a period of development and modernization. Madeira is also home to a growing technology sector, with companies specializing in areas such as software development and data analysis.
Affordable cost of living
Compared to other European cities, the cost of living in Madeira is relatively low. Rents and property prices are generally more affordable (although they have risen sharply in recent years), and the price of groceries and other essentials is comparable to or slightly below the European average. This makes Madeira an attractive option for those looking to live in Europe but who want to avoid the high cost of living in some major cities.
Location
The Madeira archipelago is ideally located in the Atlantic Ocean, making it easy to reach other European countries as well as Africa. The island has its own international airport, with regular flights to cities such as Lisbon, Porto and London.
Its geographical position also makes it an ideal destination for those wishing to explore the wider region, with easy access to destinations such as Morocco, Senegal and Cape Verde. In short, Madeira is an ideal springboard from which to discover the world!
I've given you my 9 good reasons for moving to Madeira, and there are of course many more, but it would be difficult to cover them all in a single article, and everyone needs to discover their own good reasons for moving to Madeira.
