I have just returned from my 24th Visit to the Vila Marta ( having already booked my 25th), and would like to just tell everyone of the best find I ever made. Having been visiting the island for the past 17 years, the day we come across the Vila Marta it was a jewel in a crown. The location, standard and service beats any other hotel I have ever stayed in on the island and I can gaurantee that from the owner and staff you will get 5 star service for 3 star prices. The location may not be in the centre of funchal, but it is easy to get to, by bus, car, taxi or a brisk lavada walk, and there are a few interesting little bars quite near. The rooms all have a sea view (at no extra cost!!) and are serviced daily at a time when it suits you, so it becomes a haven for piece and quiet with no pressure to be out in the morning to allow the maid to get on! Nothing is too much trouble, and the owner is always on hand to give recomendations on what to do and where to eat, and is fluent in a number of languages especially english, infact as he also resides there you really do feel that you are just part of the family. I have recomended these apartments to a number of friends over the years and they have never been disappointed.
So if like me you want to avoid the the formalities of staying in a big hotel and just want to do your own thing the Vila Marta is the place for you.