Easter Occupancy Rates at 87%

In Search of Hope – by Sam Gannon

Seconded to the parish of Tililngdon, the Reverend Dolores has been presented with a challenge.

She’s living in an antiquated house and she’s cold. Furthermore, her new Bishop, Bishop Alice does not approve of ‘showgirls in dog collars.’

Determined to prove the Bishop wrong, she sets about warming her house – who cares if it smells of horse! There is the crochet club, jumble sale, and soup run to organise. And this year, the church bells will ring, no matter what threats are made. Even more so, the newly formed choir will spread a little joy this Christmas, even though they can’t sing – yet! And with a little help from Phil, her bassist, this year could be full of magic.

However, she has a fight on her hands as the townies out in Knob Hill – she must stop calling it that, are trying to stop her from ringing her bells. When Krystal with a K decides to do some volunteer work, Dolores sets out to see just how committed she really is.

Up to her ears in granny squares and squawking choristers, Dolores is revving up for Christmas, yet a deeper darker secret is beginning to emerge!

A secret that could blow the whole parish apart and put Dolores in danger.

(available from Amazon)

This year’s Easter occupancy rates are expected to be around 87%, two percent more than last year.

In a statement, Eduardo Jesus said:

“It is with great satisfaction that we see an expected occupancy rate of 87% for this Easter, which demonstrates the continued attractiveness of the Madeira destination and the strengthening of visitors’ confidence in the region.”

The rate released by the Regional Secretariat for Economy, Tourism, and Culture refers to the expected occupancy between the 17th and the 20th of April. The figures were determined through a survey carried out by the Directorate of Tourism with regional tourism operators. Another point to note is the increased demand for 5-star accommodation.

According to statistical data for 2024, Madeiran tourism broke records, accounting for 2.2 million guests who generated 11.7 million overnight stays.

In February this year, according to the preliminary results released, Madeira registered the entry of 152.1 thousand guests, which generated 826.1 thousand overnight stays, reflecting positive year-on-year rates of change of 2.6% and 5.0%.

Tourism remains the region’s principal economic sector.

Samantha Ganon

info at madeira-weekly.com