We encountered a major problem with our suite early during our stay which I reported to the reception staff. They could not have been more professional, prompt and helpful in resolving it. I have nothing but admiration for them.

Unfortunately it recurred and a member of the the senior so-called "management" became involved, simply because she happened to be present in reception when I drew attention to the problem. I have no doubt the reception staff would have solved the problem to my satisfaction. Unfortunately the "manager" was dismissive, obstructive and totally unwilling to resolve the problem to my satisfaction (to the evident embarrassment of the junior staff). Her attitude was, in short, "take it or leave it". She refused to consider a small reduction in the price of the apartment to compensate for the major inconvenience we had experienced.

Our time in Funchal was marred by our experience. This was unfortunate since the apartments are well-located and -appointed. If you decide to use the apartments, avoid any dealings with the management. They seem, shortsightedly, only to be interested in the bottom line. Deal only with the "junior" staff who are professional, helpful and superbly competent. If it weren't for them, I doubt the business would survive. My admiration for the junior staff is matched only by my contempt for the management.

March 5th to March9th 2010
Funchal Maderia
We stayed in Funchal and had four wonderful days. The people
are so friendly and have worked so hard to clean their Island up after the floods. Fuchal is up and running and waiting for all you vistors!
We stayed in Apartmentos Turistico Altantide in Rue Ivens ,
I can recommend these as being very clean and comfortable
Try the municipal gardens across the road for early morning breakfast or a nightcap the place is buzzing and very cheap!
If you rearly want to push the boat out, I recommend Reids for
afternoon tea.

Our studio apartment was large, with a separated sleeping area. The kitchen was well equipped and the bathroom very new and fresh.

The central location was great. A large shopping complex, with a big supermarket, was 100m away and plenty of restaurants and bars were near. The seafront promenade, where most buses stop, was 300m.

Unfortunately, on the middle Saturday of our stay there was a major disaster when three hillsides collapsed after heavy rain, and mud and rockslides roared through the town. 40 people were killed. The apartments were unaffected (except no elec or water until the following day) and the staff were helpful with suggestions.

We were moved to a nearby hotel on Sat night, but by Sunday we were back to normal. The city, however, was completely devastated (see pictures).

One week later, things were getting slightly more normal. We recommend checking if you are intending to walk the Levadas in the next few months.

The apartment was wonderfully located near the Municipal gardens, where there was lots going on when we visited (just before Christmas). Near to the bus stations and shops. Excellent bakery (Opan) 1 min walk away along with supermarket (in shopping centre on lower level).
Very nicely furnished, with lots of space and a very nice bathroom.
Kitchenette was well equipped but no sharp knife, veg peeler, corkscrew in our one!
Every day the room was cleaned and the bed made up.
Reception manned all day and into the evening - very friendly staff.
We paid extra for room with balcony but the view was not so great. Still nice to have a place to sit outside. But as hotel was very quiet when we were there, surprised they made us pay the extra rather than just upgrade.
If want to explore Madeira using the local buses to go on walks in the mountains / levadas, we can thoroughly recommend "Walk and Eat Madeira" by John and Pat Underwood.