Portugal

Portugal includes mainland Portugal, the Azores and the Madeira Island chain. Amongst the earliest countries in Europe, its name having really appeared like early as 9th Century and its land borders having really been developed and not altered considering that the 1200s. A leading spot for searching due to the Atlantic breakers, most of surfing world records have in fact been set here. Portugal was one of the most effective maritime nations during the 15th and 16th centuries. Many parts of the world were colonised by the Portuguese, both East and West which is why you can find Portuguese affects in such varied areas as Malacca in Malaysia, Mozambique in Africa, Goa in India and naturally Brazil in South America. A design of music in Portugal called Fado (Fate in Portuguese) has been classified by UNESCO under Cultural Heritage. Tempura style of cooking was established by the Portuguese and they presented it to the Japanese! Intake of fish in Portugal is the 3rd biggest on the planet, following Japan and Iceland. Ian Fleming, the author of James Bond books got his inspiration for the special Casino Royale from the well-known betting establishment at Cascais, while he was stationed in Portugal with Royal Naval Intelligence.