Essential asked the Entertainment Manager of Casino da Madeira what is it that makes Madeira ‘his’.
Madeira has belonged to me for as long as I have drawn breath. As any islander, from a very early age, I have been proud to call this island my home. The mountains and deep valleys, the smell of trees, the water of the Levadas, the trails along which I used to play, all bring to memory the beautiful times and joyful childhood I had. I lived abroad, studied and worked in one of the largest cities in the whole world, the grey London.
Amidst the hustle and bustle, at rush time, in overcrowded streets with greyish buildings, something gave the impression of not belonging there. I love cities, culture, music and art, I am urban but I really do love my island, my people and their traditions. I am part of Madeira and Madeira is a part of me.
I leave but always return, with a big smile on my face, because this is where I belong!
What is "Essential"? The North Coast, especially Rabaçal and Fanal. The Levadas, the Laurel Forest, Porto Santo.
