Funchal, Porto Mare Residence (Porto Bay)

August 2006 we came to Madeira and stayed at a little unknown 3* hotel only 50 yards down the road from Hotel Panoramic. We went to a timeshare talk (45 minutes) on the way to the Lido to get 40 Euros off our excursions. Never did we think we would buy a timeshare, but we did! I thought it would be thousands and that they couldn't accommodate our specific requirements (had to be six-week school break as I'm a teacher).

We bought a one-bedroomed apartment during week 33 for ten years at a cost of approximately £3,400. Considering it would cost me and my partner £1600 or thereabouts to come each year, it was a bargain. We intended to come again before we bought the apartment.

The apartment is 5* luxury. It has everything. Kitchen with full cooking facilities including a dishwasher, dining table and chairs, sitting area with huge TV and DVD player. Doors to the balcony. A huge wardrobe in the corridor. A bathroom split into two; sink, bath and over bath shower in one area and sink, toilet, bidet, and walk in shower in the other area. A queen size bed. The bedroom and sitting room have doors leading to the balcony with sea view.

We go to Madeira for the peace and relaxation, restaurants and the walking tours. It is not generally a place for hyper kids and teenagers. There are no beaches but they'll love the Lido, which is very cheap.