Descending into Madeira, I’m not sure what impresses me most: the rugged terrain framed by the Atlantic Ocean or the name gracing the airport, Cristiano Ronaldo. Emerging from the busy building and passing the bust of this local football player, I scan my mind wondering whether anyone so young — and alive — has been bestowed such an honour.
“Cristiano Ronaldo is very popular in Madeira,” my driver, Luis, reveals.
“He owns plenty of property and is often here. He has invested lots of money and has done much to promote the island internationally.”
Regardless of their sporting status, I’m sure all the 260,000-strong population are eager to showcase Madeira to the……..