Steep and hilly with barely a beach to speak of, Madeira is an island of spectacular scenery. Funchal, the capital, overlooks a sweeping bay. The botanical gardens, perched on a series of terraces, include over 2,000 species of plants which all enjoy the balmy year-round climate.

Centuries of seafaring traffic have left an eclectic mark on the Cape Verde Islands, 450 miles off the coast of West Africa. You’ll find Creole culture and cuisine among the many influences, as well as a host of unfamiliar exotic fruits that thrive in the temperate balmy climate. All around the island you can soak up a relaxed, unhurried atmosphere, whether you head for the beach or stick to the colourful streets of its main town, Mindelo, which showcases some fine Portuguese architecture.

Landfall in South America is in Recife, once known as the ‘Venice of Brazil’ because of its network of waterways criss-crossed with bridges. Five miles away and well worth the visit is Olinda. Its magnificently ornate churches and monasteries make it a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to a thriving colony of artists.

Salvador is a melting pot of cultures, its people celebrating a lineage that draws together native Americans, Portuguese colonists and descendants of the African slave trade. There are a number of imposing forts and gilded churches to visit, or why not climb into the heart of the old city dubbed “Pelourinho” by way of the continent’s oldest elevator, to discover a maze of pastel-fronted houses decorated with intricate picture tiles.

Rio de Janeiro is not only Brazil’s main attraction, but a city without peer anywhere in the world: romantic, exciting, and physically stunning. Sugar Loaf Mountain and the Christ statue of Corcovado dominate the landscape; between them and glistening Guanabara Bay, eight sugar-sand beaches lie shimmering in the tropical sun, including world-famous Copacabana and Ipanema. Optional sightseeing makes it easy to get your bearings, while an overnight stay offers the chance to absorb the atmosphere of this marvellous city.

Founded by the Spanish in 1720 and overlooking the River Plate, Montevideo is one of the prettiest capital cities in the world. It acts not only as Uruguay’s commercial and cultural centre, but as a delightful resort as well.

Buenos Aires, the most sophisticated city in South America, is known for the pure joy and splendour of its lifestyle. Broad boulevards are lined with sidewalk cafes, elegant shops offer bargains on fine leather and lively restaurants tempt you with the aroma of Argentine steaks. There is an active artists’ colony in the Boca district and intimate tango clubs display dazzling footwork until the early hours.

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