STOP Retiring To Madeira! | 5 Reasons It May Not Be The Right Choice

[@opajohn5116]

This video is timely and incredibly accurate! We just returned from Madeira and you are so correct about the steep hills / roads, and traffic noise. The motorcycles at night were particularly loud. We absolutely loved the island but it’s probably not a good fit for us in retirement. Thank you so much for these informative videos! Wishing you continued health and happiness!

[@Track_Us_Down]

Glad you found it useful! Thanks so much for the well-wishes 🙂. Yes, it may not be right for absolutely everyone to make a base out of, but still a great place for all to have a vacation or stop in on a cruise! All the best to you!! D & M

[@Track_Us_Down]

We haven't found a single reason yet that would actually change our mind about retiring to Madeira! We love it here! 💙 These are just some things to consider - "Just to be fair!" 😉 😆

[@tinglestingles]

I think the only drawback for me is the bureaucracy - it's on the next level!! BUT I think that goes hand in hand with the very laidback culture.

[@kennethfox1586]

Like Dorothy said There's no place like home

[@stuartwatkins171]

Enjoyed your informative channel. We are here for 5 weeks. Still two weeks to go if you want to meet for a coffee sometime. Stuart and Moira.

[@libbyannstew8775]

Great video Doug and Monique! Yours is the first channel that has honestly dealt with some of the important factors people need to consider before they relocate to Madeira. It’s best to be realistic. Thanks for this.

[@Track_Us_Down]

Hello Libbyann! Thank you for watching and for your kind message. We appreciate it. Cheers! M&D

[@BaBaYaga1999-p7u]

OMG thank you for this important info!! I HATE loud noises - motorcycles and dogs, no thanks. I like peace and quiet.

[@Track_Us_Down]

Thanks for that feedback! We wanted to give a fair assessment 😀. D & M

[@OrganicFreedom]

Thank you for the honest insights. They are great points to keep in mind while we visit there and see it ourselves. Much appreciated!

[@Track_Us_Down]

Hi there! You are most welcome and thanks for the comment. Enjoy your visit to Madeira. Cheers! M&D

[@tamaramadelin4831]

Another informative video so thanks! I speak French, but I am finding Portuguese a real challenge...That said, I have not really put in the effort!! As for finding an apartment or house, I found that you need to do it yourself and be persistent! Realtors seem to stay in their area and with their listings do you are right on that! In addition, lots of the information about the property is often wrong and it's frustrating!! But, with perseverance and doing the footwork you can find your dream house or apartment...Like we just did!!! Signing papers next week...SO EXCITED!!!

[@Track_Us_Down]

Thank you for the feedback, and for watching! Monique is the same, she speaks French and also finds Portuguese tough. But also just the same, we have not yet taken classes. We try with the usual small things - greetings/goodbyes, thank-you's etc. We couldn't agree more with you about finding a place to live - you have to be persistent 👍. That is fantastic you are signing papers! Congratulations! That is very nice - and encouraging to hear! Which part of Funchal/Madeira? All the very best to you! D & M

[@tamaramadelin4831]

Actually it's in Lisbon...30 mins from the center! Fixer upper, but we look forward to it and will keep our apartment until move in ready! A dream...❤

[@Track_Us_Down]

@@tamaramadelin4831 Oh that's great! Very nice to hear!

[@luisvasconcelos1053]

If you want to get more comfortable with portuguese, start listening portuguese music, TV, movies, apps, start reading newspapers/ books, and there's portuguese classes for foreign people

[@tamaramadelin4831]

I totally agree and understand! It's totally my fault for not putting in the effort!! Honestly, I never thought I'd move to a country where the language isn't Englush or French, but...Portugal stole my heart! I will get started on the language...I owe it that!!!

[@tinglestingles]

A very fair assessment - most applies to a lot of areas of Portugal in general. We were very fortunate with our rental on the mainland.

[@Track_Us_Down]

Thank you very much! That's interesting to hear that most would apply to all over the country. We certainly also feel fortunate to have secured our 2-bedroom rental, especially with a dog! Cheers!

[@thurianknight]

Another informative and entertaining video! Thank you both for taking the time to share your insights on topics like this.

[@Track_Us_Down]

Thank you very much for your support and feedback! 😀

[@peterlodewyckx6119]

Hi there greetings from Belgium I absolutely love how you guys list the pros and cons great video stay for then greetings Peter

[@Track_Us_Down]

Thanks so much! Hello Belgium! 💙😀

[@johnmull3218]

Like you, most of the "negatives" are actually things that are attractive to us. Good information about the noise and acquiring property. We will make sure we do our due-diligence and chose a home wisely when we move.

[@Track_Us_Down]

Exactly! Glad you found some of it useful, and all the best to you in your plans! Cheers, Doug & Monique

[@alanandsuegrimshaw4629]

Great info once again thank you. It has not put us off and we are still really excited to make the move as soon as we can. Roll on next Saturday 😊

[@Track_Us_Down]

That's great to hear! We surely did not want or intend to put anyone off. This island, and the people, are simply wonderful! Cheers!

[@broadoak2006]

Love the video- full of ideas of how I can improve my Madeira videos on my channel and have subscribed today, many thanks

[@Track_Us_Down]

Hello broadoak2006! Thank you for watching and subscribing! Best of luck to you with your channel! Happy Holidays 🎄! M&D

[@broadoak2006]

@@Track_Us_Down Xmas is a very special time on Madeira M and D, enjoy!!!

[@jeanjacques9980]

There used to be a ferry to mainland Portugal, I agree the plane is the preferred way to travel. There is a ferry link from Spain to the Canaries.

[@Track_Us_Down]

Hello Jean! Thank you for watching and commenting. Yes there apparently used to be a ferry to mainland. That was before our time! We don’t mind plane travel at all but ferries are quite nice as well. Good to know about the ferry from Spain to Canaries. Cheers! M&zD

[@mscatnipper2359]

I had been wondering about most of these points as I've been binge watching videos re moving to Madeira. Sobering information, and so valuable in order to be able to make my decision based on a balance of pros and cons.

[@Track_Us_Down]

Hi there, we hope that the information provided helps with the decision making process. Best of luck to you and thank you for your support! Cheers! D&M

[@morgan97475]

Very helpful info....thanks. I enjoy your videos. I'm "shocked" by your ages. You two are a great looking couple, seemingly full of life & fun, & I look forward to watching more of your videos. I'm guessing you're from Canada...?

[@Track_Us_Down]

Hello there! We are happy to have been helpful! Thank you for the kind words and for watching our videos. You are a very good guesser! Cheers! M&D

[@limpaus123]

It's one of the best places I was so far and a good place to retire. As you mentioned, finding a house is a bit different. You can find listings multiple times, often outdated. Talking to the agencies is the best you can do and definetily check multiple of them to find your deam house. Also they give you good hints, like living above the autostrada it's louder. Some things that I've noticed: some houses had bad insulation in their bathrooms, it smelled moldy :/ and usually they have no heating; something that you might consider if you want to buy a house in the upper region

[@Track_Us_Down]

Hello and thank you for that excellent, well-though-out comment. Very appreciated! You are exactly right in what you said - the more input and info, especially from the locals, is a MUST. And of course you must be on top of everything yourself too. We also heard about the "goldy-locks" zone just above and just below the VR1 (main freeway) as far as best weather, noise, moisture levels, etc. We are just above, and it is great - the noise is not a factor at all, especially compared to where we were before down in the hotel zone. Just the distant but soft hum of tires, which we somehow find quite soothing 🙂. We've read others on Facebook speak of the possibility of so-called "mold" issues higher up in the clouds in the mountains, but have no experience or knowledge about that. Obviously an important thing to look into though when considering a place up there! Thanks again for your excellent insight and advice, and all the best! Doug & Monique.

[@shalinisharma742]

Great video! love your channel. Good luck.

[@Track_Us_Down]

Thank you!!

[@drica_barros4230]

I still consider living in Madeira. Thanks for that video!

[@Track_Us_Down]

Hello Drica_Barros, Thank you for watching and sharing your thoughts. Us too- we considered all of this and would choose Madeira all over again! Cheers! M&D

[@and2rew]

We stayed in an Airbnb in Dec 2021 right by Municpal Gardens in Funchal and then booked a different property for May 2022 that was just outside the sold Town. So in December we walked along the sea front from Marina to Old Town and as you near the Fort there are steps up to the next road level. We were attempting to make a walk to visit the booked Airbnb for May. We looked at the steep incline and turned back and rebooked for the Airbnb we are in now. So, totally agree that for anyone with even the slightest mobility issues, Madeira is not somewhere to relocate unless you have the money to live right by the marina, centre of Funchal where the terrain is at its most level.

[@Track_Us_Down]

Exactly! We felt some might be "shocked" themselves on a first visit, once they see for themselves how steep the roads and walks can be in certain areas. But Madeira still keeps you coming back! Cheers, D & M

[@frenchiebrothers7379]

Hi there😊. Just wanted to say, my husband and I love your channel. We are about the same age as both of you (I am guessing)…and have been contemplating retiring abroad. Madeira is our top choice so far. The only thing we are concerned about is our daughters access to horses. We are older parents, with an 11 year old daughter, who loves horses, and riding/taking lessons. She has been in 4H horse for 4 years, doing horse shows, horse camp… lessons… and are wondering if there are many horses, or pastures there… and wondering if the island is not a great spot for keeping her involved on the horse life. Even if we found a place for lessons.. we are thinking of staying in Madeira from November through March, and coming back to Idaho from April through October. That way we can spend time with our son through the summer. He is 24. And our daughter can do her horse 4H during the summer as well. Anyway, probably a longer story than you needed 😂. Just wondering if you have seen many horse’s on the island, or stables? Also wondering what the average temp is during December, Jan, Feb? Looks like a beautiful area, and one we would like to try out. Thank you for any input you may have. Again, really enjoy your video’s. They are very genuine and love that you are both just normal people…. Not trying to sell anyone on anything, but just talk about your experiences. Thanks again.

[@Track_Us_Down]

Hello Frenchie Brothers! We were excited to read your story! So interesting! Thank you for sharing! We have close friends who have a 10 year old daughter also obsessed with horses! She takes riding lessons weekly and loves it! We also have friends from Germany who actually brought their horse over and have him at a local stable. So although we honestly don’t know much ourselves about horses🐎 - we seem to have friends who do! It’s on our list to go for a trail ride soon! We have no doubt once here that you will connect with the horse community , your daughter as well! We for sure know one 10 year old girl from England that shares her passion!! Thank you so much for watching our videos and for your kind feedback. Happy Holidays 🎄! M&D

[@georgepiteira7586]

Definitely convinced us that Madeira Portugal is the paradise that we want to spend time in whenever we get to our second half of life!

[@Track_Us_Down]

Hello George! Madeira is next level special! You’ll love it! Thanks for watching and commenting. Cheers! M&D

[@lyndajamrozik4786]

I think you guys are adorable. My husband and I are working every day getting our properties on the market to sell and get out of here . I so hope we can make it to Madeira before the end of the year. I am desperate for peace and no more gun violence and so many activities to do outside ! I just want to confirm with you it’s not worth bringing any furniture, etc…bc of the cost to ship . Correct ? It’s just best to start fresh right ? We live in Chicago . Thanks much for your input . Best Lynda P

[@Track_Us_Down]

Thank you so much. Your message really resonated with us. We know EXACTLY what you mean about craving peace and safety. We can tell you absolutely, 100 %, there is NO gun violence here. And quite literally, there is no violence whatsoever to speak of. Coming from Chicago, or almost any other N. American city, you will be "shocked" by how SAFE you feel here, and how peaceful the people and atmosphere are/is. As far as furniture and major belongings, while entirely up to you based on what you are planning or how sentimental you are about your "stuff," we would absolutely urge anyone not to bring ANYTHING, other than their suitcases. You will feel the freedom, and you are right - sometimes there is nothing better than a fresh start. That's what we did and have zero regrets. And you can buy anything and everything you need here, most often better quality, style, and fashion. Who knew? And from all we have researched, shipping can and will likely be a nightmare as far as costs, delays/loss, and logistics. We hope that helps with some of your thoughts & concerns! We wish you all the very best in your planning, selling, moving, and new life! 💙 D & M

[@josepeso2560]

Best safetty places in the world: Iceland, New Zealand and Portugal, by this order, but, note, the first two are islands

[@bobcusolito5206]

Great video, I don’t think any of the reasons would get us to stop, although the noise issue is good to know. My cousin and his wife already retired there and they mentioned the noise too. They live in the Lido area, which is probably especially noisy because it’s a tourist area. Hopefully there are other areas in Funchal that are a little quieter. Going there in a couple of weeks to visit and check it out for a possible retirement destination.

[@Track_Us_Down]

Thank you! We agree - with some thought, planning, and awareness, we believe these "shockers" can easily be overcome. And truthfully, these all pale in comparison to the issues back in N. America! Good luck to you on your scouting trip, and enjoy your time here! All the best, D & M

[@and2rew]

Around 10pm last night a refuse truck was emptying glass recycling into its container! Right by municipal garden. It was like a building was collapsing.

[@Track_Us_Down]

@@and2rew OMG we’ve seen that happen. Isn’t it incredibly loud!! 😆

[@sevenofnine2233]

Thank you for this video

[@Track_Us_Down]

Hello! Thank you for watching! Cheers! M&D

[@keithmeschke9523]

Hello, my wife and I are anxious to visit Madeira sooner than later. Could you provide information on any availability of USA television stations while living in Madeira? Is it even possible to get some broadcast signals of popular USA networks? We look forward to your KZbin videos.

[@Track_Us_Down]

Hello Keith! Thank you for watching and supporting the channel. We don’t have US stations like NBC, ABC or CBS in our package. We have lots of English movie channels including Fox movies, Fox crime, Fox comedy, Fox life, and we do have CNN., MTV, Entertainment TV, and AMC. Hope that helps. Cheers! M&D

[@tehilash7292]

Thank you for your honest, eligible reasons. The noise is definitely one to consider. After watching your channel I was watching touristic videos of Madeira . I am not physically fit so I thought that I couldn't do all the tracks. Definitely not at the pace these about 30 year olds could. But maybe over time it would improve my health. I was wondering logistically- how do you travel with your dog if you feel like having a spontaneous travel. Does it come with you ? And if so, what's the last minute procedure? or do you have someone taking care of it while your travelling?

[@Track_Us_Down]

You are welcome, and thanks for watching! Even for us, not all tracks, trails, or levadas are for everyone. Some are ridiculously narrow, with 100's of meters of drop off on either side. If you have vertigo or are afraid of heights - don't do it! Then there is the inclines on some. But there are a ton to choose from, many many very walkable and enjoyable, at whatever pace and ability that is comfortable for YOU. We absolutely feel that living on this island will 100% improve one's health, fitness, and wellbeing 👍😀. As for our dog, we have connections and plans in the works to babysit him while we are gone. We thought we might rent a motor home on the mainland / Europe again for 3 months or so in the future. If we do that and he is still around, then we would take him with us for that. Otherwise, for any other trip more than a day or two, he will be getting left behind on the island with a loving babysitter, especially as he is already 10 years old. All the best, D & M

[@tehilash7292]

@@Track_Us_Down 👍👌thank you!

[@stevemills1481]

I'm so pleased to have seen your video. Madeira was high up on our list of places to move to but you video has changed my mind. We live on the Costa del Sol and it is very touristy and noisy, so it would be out the pan and into the fire. Maybe look at one of the other islands. Thanks very much

[@Track_Us_Down]

Hello Steve! We did mention that where we lived was quite touristy and noisy. However, now that we have moved into a more residential area, we no longer have that issue. As we said in the video, we wanted to give a clear picture. We hope you find what you’re looking for. Thank you for watching our channel. Cheers! M&D

[@netcreature]

We live in the suburbs of Canada and are also looking at early retirement. My wife is a teacher and I was in corporate/private security for many years. I'm enjoying following your experiences and hope to visit Madeira during our ongoing search for a home-base in our retirement.

[@Track_Us_Down]

That's great to hear! Good for you both! We definitely have a lot in common by the sounds of it. Thank you so much for watching our videos, hopefully we continue to deliver. Definitely a great idea to add Madeira to your search for a home-base. When you come, make sure to "Track Us Down" .. cheezy but appropriate! 😜 Cheers!

[@PTFighterBras]

If you're having a hard time learning european portuguese, try "brazilian portuguese", it's easier to learn, has flow and we'll understand you the same way :)

[@stephenjarzombek2903]

I have no friends in Portugal, but a number of Brazilian friends who speak fluent English--and they think either form would be difficult for native English speakers to master. They don't all agree on how different European and Brazilian Portuguese are, though. Some say it's only like the difference between Southern versus Midwestern English in the US--mostly pronunciation--but others say it's more like British versus US English. One problem is that online Portuguese courses here in the US are almost exclusively Brazilian Portuguese.

[@rickchandler2570]

@@stephenjarzombek2903 Completely agree. English is pretty much backwards than any other language. So if you learn Portuguese, Spanish, French etc, are much easier to learn. I would bet that English is pretty difficult for native Portuguese speakers to learn as well.

[@Track_Us_Down]

There sure seems to be a lot more opportunity - at least online - to learn Brazilian Portuguese... but we figure since we're here, we'll give the original a shot! 😜

[@Track_Us_Down]

Exactly... try and find actual original Portuguese classes in N. America - good luck!

[@PTFighterBras]

@@rickchandler2570 not really, we grew up listening to english music, movies and tv shows always with subtitles

[@memoriesfootprints740]

Happy to see videos like this being a bit more realistic. The noise has definitely increased drastically the last few years, including the airplanes, if you are close to the airport, Machico. It's a bit sad, as we have been coming on holiday here for a long time, and we can see the changes, not good changes 🤔

[@Track_Us_Down]

Hello Memories and Footprints! Thank you so much for watching and sharing your insight. Cheers! M&D

[@justlanded2177]

Hey guys, what is your strategy for learning Portuguese? Please share your tips....thx

[@Track_Us_Down]

Great question. It as simple as this for us: 1) Full immersion.. it's all around us, and even the English movies on TV have Portuguese sub-titles, which is very convenient. We are often being spoken to, at least at first, in Portuguese, so we are slowly (and I mean slowly) picking some of it up, and the confidence to use some words!). 2) Classes. We will be taking in-person adult-Ed style classes once we are fully settled (soon). 3) Time. We plan on being here for the long-term! 4) Willingness to make mistakes! 😉 We'll see how it goes! 😀

[@rickchandler2570]

Brazilian Portuguese seems to be a little more easier to learn also. EU Portuguese has the same words, but it seems people don’t use many of the words in a sentence or the kinda smash the words together. I’ve been working on learning it for almost a year now and it’s been interesting….

[@Track_Us_Down]

Hi! We have heard the same thing about Brazilian Portuguese being at least a little easier. You are right about the Madeirans "smashing" their words/sentences together. When we finally learn anything, it will sound very deliberate and formal! 😂

[@module79l28]

@@Track_Us_Down - Please don't go down the Brazilian-Portuguese (PT-BR) route or you'll find out later that you won't be able to communicate with people who speak european Portuguese (PT-PT) as well as you thought you could. Also, PT-BR has a whole different set of quirks that you might find as tricky to learn as the ones in PT-PT. Plus, you're not living in Brazil, why would you learn the PT-BR variant?

[@Track_Us_Down]

@@module79l28 Agreed! We will soon be taking in-person PT-PT lessons here in Funchal! 😀

[@module79l28]

@@Track_Us_Down - I just hope it's a mainland teacher, otherwise it'll be so funny hearing you talking with the thick Funchal or Camacha or Câmara de Lobos accent. 😂

[@Track_Us_Down]

@@module79l28 OMG that’s a great point 😂

[@mundarepreciso]

Guys, please, talk about RyanAir operations in the island. It seems a good way to fly away from Madeira without passing through other cities of Portugal, despite weather conditions, of course. Is it working properly?

[@Track_Us_Down]

Hi! You are absolutely right. They haven't been here long, and although they got off to a rocky start, with no planes showing up and ridiculously delayed or cancelled flights, they seem to have that smoothed out. We'll give them the benefit of the doubt as they have unreal prices (like €15 or thereabouts) to fly to many major European destinations, right from Madeira. Cheers! D & M

[@mariemyers6747]

​@@Track_Us_Down​@TrackUsDown1 Am I reading this right? $15-$20 to fly around locally (island hop)??? My husband is a devoted skier and I'm trying to convince him that he will have easy access to skiing in Switzerland or Austria and likely countless other destinations near us that we are probably not aware of. Do you know of individuals living on Madeira island that goes skiing during ski season? If so, what are their comments about doing so (i.e. best ski destination in the world at a fraction of the cost compared to US, easy to travel to/from ski destination from the island, etc.)🤞. Also, what about finding and purchasing land and building in Portugal? Just as challenging? Lots of red tape/building permits to contend to? We were thinking of purchasing several of Elon Musk's Boxable Casitas to install on a piece of property, provided they ship outside the US.

[@kennethfox1586]

Yall make a beautiful couple 💑

[@Track_Us_Down]

Awe! Thank you very much and thanks for watching! Cheers! M&D

[@Mr.S65]

The housing issue was “chocante” for me, I thought it was the other way around. If I can’t find a place to rent in Madeira to get my D7 I can’t find anything else “chocante”.

[@Track_Us_Down]

Ha ha 😄. We agree! Yes the renting/buying curve here is on a sharp upward trajectory it seems, but so is the new construction. We look back already and thank the stars we were able to make it on our D7 with only an initial 2-week rental, and be able to secure something longer-term within that 2-week period. Good luck! D & M

[@FinanceTeacher123]

Are you planning to buy an apartment any time soon? Can you make a video on buying vs renting in Madeira? Thanks

[@Track_Us_Down]

That is a great idea for a video - something we do in fact have some plans for! As far as us buying - well, stay tuned! 😉 😜

[@FinanceTeacher123]

@@Track_Us_Down Thanks!

[@adamputh1090]

Does Madeira island have train and metro and also how is the nightlife in funchal ?

[@Track_Us_Down]

Hi! No trains, but there are gondolas for fun and scenic service to remote, steep areas, as well there is excellent city bus service, island bus service, and even 5-euro island airport bus service running on the hour. As far as night life, restaurant and bars are hopping in the evening and into the night, especially in high time/summer. As for nightclubs, we see many, but haven't been. Talking to younger people, they say they have their favorites they go to. Cheers!

[@lyndajamrozik4786]

We are selling off all of our properties to retire to Madeira . I can’t wait to get out of the states . Hopefully we will buy a place within the year. Love your channel, it’s informative without being too “wordy”.

[@Track_Us_Down]

Good for you, and congratulations! You will love it here. We know exactly what you mean - we couldn't wait to get away either. And thank you very much for watching, and for the feedback, we really appreciate it. All the very best to you! D & M

[@lyndajamrozik4786]

Do you have easy access to Amazon and purchasing from Amazon ?

[@Track_Us_Down]

Absolutely! Portugal (and Madeira) uses Amazon Spain, with no additional costs, with Prime as well. Check out our March Cost-of-Living video where we bought a new E-reader and it arrived within 3 days! Cheers!

[@ennokarr]

Thank you so much for your video. We are considering moving there. However, we have a dog that we love to go for walks with. What is dog ownership like in Madeira? Here is Canada, people love their pets like their own children. But it seems like there's a different attitude to pets in Madeira and Portugal.

[@Track_Us_Down]

Hello Enno! Thank you so much for watching and so glad you found value in the video. There are stretches along the ocean boardwalk to walk- can be touristy. We mostly head up in the hills to trails to walk, which we really enjoy. Daily walking from our home is tricky. We do it, but we walk along a highway. It’s not ideal. Yes we are those who love Leo as a family member. Excellent vets and animal hospital. Check out our February cost of living, where Leo had surgery. Excellent doggie daycare while we travel as well. Check out “the 5 people you need to succeed abroad” video. The attitude towards animals is different, but changing with generations. There are stray dogs and it’s heartbreaking. Take care. M&D

[@musicbyenokk]

@@Track_Us_Down Excellent info. Thanks again. I'll be checking those videos now. Best regards, E

[@andrewtasch2299]

Have you guys ever said where you’re from? Ontario?

[@Track_Us_Down]

Hello Andrew! We are from Canada. We did live in Ontario for awhile. Our boys are living in Alberta. Thanks for watching! Cheers! M&D

[@FinanceTeacher123]

Hello, your videos are wonderful. Are there any English medium middle level schools (for age 13-16) in Madeira? Thanks.

[@Track_Us_Down]

Thank you! We know there are 1 or 2 International Schools here that go to grade 12, but we don't know any real details as we don't have kids that age. Maybe Google or other forums would know? All the best!

[@FinanceTeacher123]

@@Track_Us_Down Thanks!

[@adamputh1090]

Is Glovo food delievery available in funchal?

[@Track_Us_Down]

It sure is! They, along with Uber Eats and individual services such as Burger King which have their own.

[@dimon44]

I would add a few more based on my three visits on the island: 1. size of the island, it is quite small all in all 2. Tourists, especially in Funchal in the summer season 3. No real beach to enjoy swimming safely with kids

[@Track_Us_Down]

Hi there! Everyone has to find what fits and feels right for them. We don’t find the island too small at all for us. There are areas where there are a lot of tourists and other areas where there are fewer. We live in a local area and only occasionally see tourists. We love swimming at Praia Formosa, however it may not be ideal for children. We hope you find what you are looking for. Thank you for watching our videos! Cheers! D&M

[@PedroSantos-lp1vk]

Hi @dimon44 What beaches were you at? I was raised in Madeira and traveled all around the world, and I would say that the beaches in Madeira are some of the safest I've ever seen. Sure, the beaches in Funchal are kind of bad and boring, but if you travel around, there are a lot of safe, calm, and beautiful beaches. Some examples are the Garajau beach, the Porto Moniz natural pools, the Fajã dos Padres beach, and any of the Caniçal beaches. And if you don't feel comfortable with rocky beaches, there are some sandy ones too, in Machico, Calheta, Seixal and Caniçal as well.

[@briant3404]

beyond the grammar, and what beginners are always taught , the hardest part of learning any language is understanding colloquial native speakers... for this,,, Portuguese fairy tales on youtube is great with english subs.. when you can read portuguese subs, which makes it a lot easier to correlate the subs with the speech, which is awkward, the best show i have found with portuguese subs is ''ó sabio'' on RTP which you can find on the internet. it has 300 episodes, but most of all it is very entertaining, i love that show. music is a great way also because you can find songs you like and then watch the videos that have the lyrics ''letra'' . with music, since it is slowed down compared to speech, you have a lot more time to dip into the details of how they say things , which are usually lost when someone is speaking. especially in portuguese where a lot of sounds practically dissappear. thanks as always for great realism and practicality in your enjoyable videos.

[@Track_Us_Down]

You are exactly right. You nailed it - from the difficulties in absorbing the native slang at the same time as properly trying to learn the language, to knowing the best approach to do so, to how some of their sounds just disappear within the spoken sentence. We like the fairytale idea and will check out RTP. Thanks for the great insight and ideas!

[@isabeloliveira2165]

I live in Sintra vila center and the worse it is the dogs that people have in their houses and loose in the gardens and sometimes they are used was a way of intimidation for people not walk in the pavement and in the street that is the worse thing that happen I don't like at all .

[@Track_Us_Down]

Ha ha - yes, people don't "shush" their dogs here at all, and here, too, there are many out in the gardens and yards, especially as you get up the slopes from downtown Funchal. We walk our dog 2x a day, so we notice it! Cheers!

[@kennethfox1586]

How many children do you have? Do they visit you. What did you used to do for a living. You don't have to speak a foreign language. There are devices that do all of that for you

[@Track_Us_Down]

Hi there! We have 2 sons and they have already visited us twice since we moved here. Monique was a teacher and Doug was a police officer. And yes, technology is super helpful for communicating in another language. If you’re interested we have posted other videos answering these questions and even more about Madeira, our home and retirement. Cheers! M&D

[@kennethfox1586]

Interesting. Thank You

[@collosus81lash98]

Good information, but I have to say, if you are considering moving to Madeira, do your due diligence as with anywhere else in the world.

[@Track_Us_Down]

Hello there! Thank you for watching and commenting. Absolutely, that’s what the video is all about, doing your due diligence, as you say …. As with anywhere else in the world. For us, we did that and we love it! Cheers! M&D

[@luisvasconcelos1053]

Did you find other couples from Canada already living on the Island?

[@Track_Us_Down]

Can't say that specifically, however we have met people from all over teh world here!

[@JayGnG]

In Madeira islands new generation are speaking all type of languages it's like Portuguese is losing it's touch, certain parts it's mostly English, Spanish or French

[@Track_Us_Down]

Hello JJ! Thank you for sharing your insight about Madeira islands. In our little community our neighbors all speak Portuguese and some English. We are working hard to converse in Portuguese! This beautiful country is so welcoming, we want to honor it with speaking its language. Thanks for watching and commenting! Cheers! M&D

[@JayGnG]

@@Track_Us_Down your welcome and thank you for replying most appreciated

[@evgeniazahra3667]

If possible can you share contacts of your notary please

[@Track_Us_Down]

Hello Evgenia! Please send us an email at [e-mail] and we will share our contacts with you. Thanks for watching. Cheers! M&D

[@antoniodasilva1230]

Dirt bikes are street legal in the usa if they have turn signales and lights indoros i think we call them loud pipes save lives besides hard work makes the dream work 😂

[@Track_Us_Down]

The noise level from the little Coke-can exhausts is tremendous! 😜 Cheers!

[@antoniodasilva1230]

@@Track_Us_Down those motorcycles are classic's around 70 year old

[@cojocaruda]

Romanian is a Latin language, too 😉

[@Track_Us_Down]

Nice!

[@dom8492]

It's not a great base to explore the rest of Europe. Its probably the worst

[@Track_Us_Down]

We disagree!