Question
Here is the question : THE CITY OF FUNCHAL, MADEIRA, USES WHICH UNUSUAL MODE OF TRANSPORT?
Option
Here is the option for the question :
- Donkey-back riding
- Toboggan
- Open-top tram
- Palanquin
The Answer:
And, the answer for the the question is :
Explanation:
The Portuguese island of Madeira is home to the country’s largest city, Funchal, which is situated on the steep slopes of a volcano. Since the nineteenth century, islanders have employed wicker toboggans, a clever means of transportation that allows them to quickly descend steep slopes. During the course of a ten minute thrill ride around the city streets, riders can reach high speeds of 23 mph with the help of a toboggan-pusher in a straw hat and white pants.
Funchal, the capital city of Madeira, Portugal, is famous for its beautiful scenery, rich history, and unique culture. However, what really sets it apart from other cities is its unusual mode of transport – the toboggan. The toboggan is a traditional mode of transportation that has been in use for more than a century and is still popular among tourists today.
The toboggan ride begins in the Monte neighborhood, which is located high up in the hills overlooking Funchal. The ride lasts around 10 minutes and covers a distance of about 2 kilometers. The toboggans are made of wicker, and they are pushed and steered by two men, who are known as carreiros. The carreiros wear traditional white clothing, straw hats, and rubber-soled boots for better grip while running alongside the toboggans.
The ride is a thrilling experience, as the toboggans can reach speeds of up to 48 kilometers per hour. The carreiros use their rubber-soled boots to brake and steer the toboggans as they speed down the hill, weaving in and out of traffic and around sharp corners. The ride offers stunning views of Funchal and the surrounding countryside, as well as glimpses of traditional Madeiran houses and gardens.
The toboggan ride has a long history in Funchal. It was first used as a mode of transportation in the late 19th century, when wealthy residents of Monte would use the toboggans to travel down to Funchal. The ride soon became popular with tourists, and it has been a major attraction in Funchal ever since. Today, the toboggan ride is one of the most popular tourist activities in Funchal, and it attracts visitors from all over the world.
the toboggan ride is not without controversy. Some critics argue that the ride is dangerous and that the carreiros are not properly trained or regulated. Others argue that the ride is exploitative, as the carreiros are often paid low wages and work long hours. However, supporters of the toboggan ride argue that it is an important part of Madeiran culture and history, and that it provides much-needed income for many families in the region.
In recent years, efforts have been made to regulate the toboggan ride and ensure the safety of both passengers and carreiros. The carreiros are now required to undergo training and certification, and the toboggans are regularly inspected to ensure that they are in good condition. Additionally, the government has established a minimum wage for carreiros, and efforts are being made to improve working conditions for those who operate the toboggans.
the toboggan ride is a unique and thrilling mode of transportation that has been a part of Funchal’s history and culture for more than a century. While it is not without controversy, efforts are being made to regulate the ride and ensure the safety and well-being of those who operate it. Whether you are a thrill-seeker or a history buff, the toboggan ride is an experience that you won’t want to miss on your vis