Flag Hotel Madeira - Ribeira Brava

Parking took some effort: the hotel has only three spaces, so for another spot you have to search around and pay. We had the four-person suite at an affordable price, though, and the corner window gave us the best view over the bay.

The maids were incredibly sweet, and the other woman at the front desk was helpful and full of useful information. They were a few bright spots in an otherwise awful stay. The blonde staff member, though, was rude and condescending. We asked for more tissues because the ones provided were tiny and very thin for two people. She asked why we wanted more, then said no and that the maids would bring extra later. If guests ask for tissues, just give them some. The attitude at the front desk was terrible. Our room was unbearably hot and the fan barely worked. There was construction noise in the evenings while we were trying to relax. The bathroom had no vent, so the smell hung around for hours and seeped into the room. There was also a random kitchen area with no working appliances. The ancient kettle they gave us for boiling water had black mold inside. If I hadn’t noticed, I could have become horribly sick. This was the most disappointing place I’ve stayed in my life, and I’ve stayed in several Indian hotels. Don’t ruin an amazing Madeira trip here. Find somewhere better, or camp outdoors if you’re trying to save money. Everything else was atrocious, avoid at all costs. I can’t imagine how many holidays this hotel has ruined.

The room was cleaned every day, and the reception staff were very friendly. Still, the hotel needs renovation. At night, deliveries being unloaded and loaded at the store on the ground floor disturb the peace, and something should be done about it. We stayed for a week but got bottled drinking water only on the first day. The hotel’s condition also put us off buying breakfast there.

It’s a one-star hotel, so don’t expect more for the price. There’s no AC, just a fan, but temperatures are low all year. The place has what an average person needs, with decent breakfast, very friendly service, and big rooms.