Madeira with Kids: A Family Adventure
A Portuguese island in the Atlantic Ocean, closer to Africa than mainland Europe, Madeira really does have something for everyone—cliffs, mountains, endless ocean views. It also offers a rich cultural scene and diverse culinary experiences, and of course, it's the home of Cristiano Ronaldo—that was my selling point for my husband. Even the airport is named after him: Cristiano Ronaldo International Airport. Who knew? What I didn't know was the airport's infamous landing. Apparently, the whole world knew about it—except us. There are entire YouTube videos on crazy landings in Madeira. I had no idea. Our landing there was, by far, the most intense landing I've experienced—and it wasn't even a windy day. The geography makes the approach tricky and windy, with cliffs on one side and the ocean on the other. Our plane was shaking and swaying, and when we finally touched down (back wheels first), the brakes were applied very forcefully. The runway is very short—although it...