The key to a fulfilling experience during your vacation is preparation!
Madeira Island was elected the “World’s Leading Island Destination” in 2015, 2016, 2017 and 2018 by the World Travel Awards. If you are planning to visit this lovely island, you will find a welcoming place full of incredible experiences!
According to a 2010 study, the act of planning your trip can make you happier. However, your mind seldom thinks about the things that could go wrong and few things are worse than reacting in panic when you are in an unfamiliar location.
What if something unexpected happens? What if you are hiking and spring your ankle? What if you have an allergic reaction to exotic food? If you are not prepared, you could risk not getting the adequate treatment in these unexpected situations.
The key to a fulfilling experience during your vacation is PREPARATION!
It will be impossible to consider every possible occurrence, but you can follow some steps to help you before you travel:
1. Start preparing for your trip to Madeira at least 4 to 6 weeks before you go. We recommend you to read the health and safety advice from these sources:
- The latest guidance on travelling to Madeira – GOV.UK Foreign and Commonwealth Office;
- Recommendations when travelling to Madeira – TravelHealthPro.
2. Schedule a visit with your doctor before travelling. This will help you to assess health risks considering your medical history and planned activities. This is extremely important for people with pre-existing health conditions (like diabetes).
3. Make sure your vaccinations are up to date. You can check the Vaccine recommendations here.
4. Prepare a kit of travel health essentials, including medication for pre-existing medical conditions, painkillers, antihistaminic, insect repellent and antiseptic. Also, include sunburn treatment and sunscreen (at least 4-star UVA protection and SPF15 to protect against UVB).
5. Plan for how you will get health care during your vacation should the need arise:
- Carry a card that identifies (in Portuguese): your blood type, chronic conditions, allergies, and the name of any medications you need to take;
- Write (or add to your phone) the contact of local doctors and Hospitals or Clinics. In case you need it, our Urgent Care Service phone number(s) are (+351) 291 771 020 or (+351) 969 677 686;
- Review your health insurance plan;
- Bring all the medicines you will need during your trip (including over-the-counter medicines), add some extra quantities in case of unexpected travel delays;
You can use the official visitmadeira.pt website to Plan your trip and learn more about Madeira Walking Routes, and read updated information about walkway closures and access restrictions here.
Going on vacation is a wonderful experience. Being prepared may not prevent something unexpected from happening, but you will know what to do and the necessary resources to handle it.
In case you need medical assistance in Madeira, you can contact us. Our clinic has an Urgent Care Service, open 7 days a week from 8:30 to 21:00 with English-speaking staff that will be able to help you!
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