Question 1

Why is it cheaper to book directly?

Accepted Answer

Airbnb and Booking.com charge a commission on every reservation, and that cost ends up in the nightly rate. Booking here removes it, so our direct price is the lowest we offer anywhere.

Question 2

Do I pay the whole amount now?

Accepted Answer

No. You pay 30% of the total when you book. The rest is due before you arrive. We keep your card on file with Stripe so settling it is one tap from your booking page rather than typing the number again, and we send a reminder nearer the time. Nothing further is taken without you. The exact amounts are shown before you confirm.

Question 3

What is your cancellation policy?

Accepted Answer

You get a full refund if you cancel more than 14 days before check-in, and 50% after that. The cleaning fee and tourist tax are always returned in full, because neither is incurred if you do not stay.

Question 4

Which payment methods do you accept?

Accepted Answer

Visa, Mastercard and American Express, plus Apple Pay and Google Pay. Payments are handled by Stripe, and card details never reach our servers.

Question 5

Is the tourist tax included in the price?

Accepted Answer

It is shown as a separate line and collected with your booking. Funchal charges €2 per adult per night for the first seven nights of a stay. We pass it straight to the municipality.

Question 6

Can I change my dates after booking?

Accepted Answer

Usually yes, subject to availability and any difference in rate. Reply to your confirmation email and we will sort it out with you directly rather than through a form.

Question 7

What time can I check in?

Accepted Answer

From 15:00 until 22:00. If your flight lands later, tell us. Late arrivals are common here and we will arrange self check-in with a key lockbox.

Question 8

What time is check-out?

Accepted Answer

By 11:00. If the studio is free the following night we can often be flexible; ask us the day before and we will tell you honestly.

Question 9

Can I leave my luggage before check-in or after check-out?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Luggage drop-off is available on both days at no charge. Just let us know roughly when you will arrive.

Question 10

How do I get here from the airport?

Accepted Answer

Madeira Airport is about 20 minutes by car. A taxi is the simplest option; there is also an airport bus into central Funchal. We send full directions with your confirmation.

Question 11

Is there Wi-Fi?

Accepted Answer

Yes, in every studio, and it is fast enough for video calls and streaming.

Question 12

Can I cook?

Accepted Answer

Each studio has a kitchenette with a hob, fridge, microwave, kettle and coffee machine, plus pans, plates, glasses and cutlery. It handles real cooking, not just breakfast.

Question 13

Is there a washing machine?

Accepted Answer

Yes, in each studio. It is the amenity guests staying a week or more mention most often.

Question 14

Is the property suitable for children?

Accepted Answer

The studios are compact and set up for two adults. We do not have cots or high chairs. Families are welcome, but please write to us first so we can be honest about whether the space will work for you.

Question 15

Are pets allowed?

Accepted Answer

By arrangement only. Ask before booking and we will let you know.

Question 16

Is smoking allowed?

Accepted Answer

Not indoors, anywhere on the property.

Question 17

Do I need a car?

Accepted Answer

Not for Funchal. We are in São Martinho, about fifteen minutes from the centre by bus, with a stop close to the house. You can walk down to the seafront in about thirty-five minutes, but the way back is a 210-metre climb, so most guests walk one way and take the bus or a taxi the other. A car is worth hiring for a day or two if you want to reach the north and west of the island.

Question 18

Is there parking?

Accepted Answer

We do not have private parking. The house is on a residential street in São Martinho; we will send you the current parking situation and the nearest options with your arrival information.

Question 19

How far is the beach?

Accepted Answer

Madeira's coast is volcanic rock rather than sand. Praia Formosa, a pebble beach, is the closest place to swim, around thirty minutes on foot downhill, or a few minutes by bus. The sea-water lidos on the Funchal seafront are a little further, about thirty-five minutes on foot. Both are a climb on the way back.

Question 20

Is the area quiet at night?

Accepted Answer

Yes. It is a residential building with neighbours who live here year-round, and quiet hours start at 22:00. Cantinho da Avó and Cantinho da Dona Maria José, both upstairs with a private entrance away from the street, are the quietest of the three.

Questions we get asked

Booking & payment

Arrival & check-in

During your stay

Location & getting around

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