Madeira Autonomous Region is constituted by two inhabited islands (Madeira and Porto Santo). Madeira is a mountainous, green island of volcanic origin. Its climate with sub-tropical characteristics, the huge "colours palette" resulting from its flowers and its natural beauty, attract a luxury lovers tourism flow and segments owning a very high purchasing power standard. In spite of its hills steep slopes, the Madeira wine is produced and exported all over the world since the XVI century. Also in the Porto Santo Island long beach, high pattern "resorts" start to arise, corresponding to a growing external demand.
Constituted by 9 islands, Azores Autonomous Region owns an important strategic position relatively to the North Atlantic air and shipping traffic routes. With an economy based in the maritime navigation, milk production, beef and veal, tea and pineapple cultures, tourism starts playing an important role of economical relevance, particularly in S. Miguel and Terceira Islands.
