According to forum posts, travelers looking for dining venues popular with locals in Madeira recommended places like Lá ao Fundo, Gavião Novo, Taberna Madeira, and Restaurante Dos Combatentes. These spots are noted for being frequented by locals and offering authentic Madeiran cuisine.

Some travelers said that for a more upscale dining experience, Il Gallo d'Oro and Ristorante Villa Cipriani are recommended. Il Gallo d'Oro boasts two Michelin stars and offers a multi-course dining experience, while Ristorante Villa Cipriani offers classic Italian cuisine with stunning ocean views.

For vegetarians and those on a budget, forum posts highlighted that Pingo Doce supermarkets have buffet restaurants with well-priced vegetarian and fish choices. Additionally, Noodleking and 100 Montaditos were mentioned as offering affordable meals with vegetarian options available.

Travelers have called out specific restaurants for their impressive ocean views. Recommendations include the Design Centre for its perch atop the Mohle fort, offering both a spectacular view and a nice spot for a coffee or cocktail.

According to forum posts, Madeira's weather is generally mild due to its subtropical climate. Travelers have noted that temperatures can vary, typically ranging from 16°C to 28°C depending on the month and location on the island.

In December, some travelers reported experiencing temperatures between 22 and 28 degrees Celsius, suitable for wearing flip-flops and sleeveless tops. However, this seems to be above the usual averages, which are closer to 19 degrees Celsius. May temperatures are noted to hover around 18°C, while late May can see daytime temperatures of 23 or 24°C.

Travelers have called out that Madeira's weather is changeable and not guaranteed to be consistently sunny. It is common to experience multiple types of weather in a single day, including wind, rain, and sunshine. The weather in the mountains and north coast tends to be cooler compared to the south coast, which is generally milder and drier.

According to forum posts, travelers have had positive experiences with Madpoint, citing good service and reasonable prices. Madpoint has been recommended for its convenience of delivering cars directly to accommodations. Additionally, Atlantic Car Rental is noted for offering vehicles like the Renault Zoe, which is suitable for navigating the islands' hilly terrain.

Some travelers advised taking photos of the rental car from all angles before driving off to avoid charges for damages not caused by the renter. It's also suggested to be present during the final inspection of the vehicle. Moreover, using third-party insurance for excess coverage can be more cost-effective than opting for the rental company's own insurance.

Travelers have mentioned that a basic car is usually sufficient for driving around Madeira, even on steep hills. For example, a 1.4L diesel Toyota Yaris was recommended for its capability to handle steep inclines with ease.

According to forum posts, Cliff Bay is highly recommended due to its direct access to the sea, great views, and excellent facilities. Travelers have called out its perfect location for enjoying breakfast with a view. Additionally, several users have mentioned staying there multiple times, highlighting its consistency in quality and service.

For travelers looking for different budget options, the Eden Mar Hotel is suggested by some users for its family-friendly environment, spacious rooms, and proximity to local amenities. It is part of a complex that includes Porto Mare Hotel and the Residence, offering access to multiple facilities. The Pestana Promenade is also noted for its reasonable pricing and sea views from rooms above the first level.

For those interested in a central location, the Porto Santa Maria and Albergaria Dias hotels have been mentioned as suitable options. These hotels are recommended for their proximity to Funchal's city center, making them a good choice for travelers who prefer to stay close to urban activities and amenities.

According to forum posts, several bus routes serve key destinations in Madeira. For reaching Camara de Lobos, travelers can take the Rodoeste bus near the Casino Park Hotel. The Horarios do Funchal (Interurban) buses travel to Curral das Freiras and the Santana area, while SAM buses connect to the eastern parts like Santa Cruz and Porto da Cruz. Travelers have called out the convenience of the bus network for accessing various hiking trails and scenic spots across the island.

Posts highlight that different bus companies operate regionally, making it essential to plan according to specific areas. Horarios do Funchal serves the urban areas, and Rodoeste covers the western part of Madeira. Travelers have found the buses reliable for reaching hiking trails and levadas, though it's advised to check updated schedules and plan routes in advance.

For those interested in comprehensive travel, some users recommend the Yellow Bus services for combined tours and transportation, offering a practical way to explore multiple attractions seamlessly.

According to forum posts, trail running shoes are generally suitable for less demanding hikes in Madeira, such as Levada walks, especially during dry conditions. However, some travelers have recommended hiking boots for better ankle support and to handle muddy and slippery conditions, which are common in areas like the Levada dos Tornos after rain.

Travelers have called out the importance of waterproof footwear. Madeira's trails can be muddy, and conditions can change with weather fluctuations. Thus, waterproof boots or shoes with good grip are advisable for a comfortable and safe hiking experience.

For many users, lightweight hiking boots are preferred over heavier boots used in more rugged terrains like the Alps or the Pyrenees. This is due to Madeira's trails being less rugged, though still requiring sturdy and reliable footwear.

According to forum posts, solo travelers have had positive experiences staying in Funchal due to its central location and good connectivity to other parts of Madeira. The Hotel Albergaria Dias in the Old Town is particularly recommended for its great location and the presence of other solo travelers.

Some travelers suggested booking small group tours as a way to meet other people. These tours are described as more personal and conducive to social interactions compared to larger group tours. Additionally, activities like food tours or walking tours around Funchal are recommended for those looking to socialize.

Travelers have called out Madeira as a very safe destination for solo travelers, including solo female travelers. Eating out and moving around solo is generally trouble-free, and the locals are described as welcoming.

For solo travelers interested in hiking, guided group hikes are readily available and often include a diverse mix of participants, making them a good social opportunity. Companies like Madeira Explorers are highlighted for providing professional guides and comprehensive tours.

According to forum posts, Madeira offers specialized birdwatching tours. For instance, Madeira Wind Birds provides full-day birdwatching excursions, which can be accessed through their website.

Some travelers mentioned that dolphin and whale watching tours are operational throughout the year in Madeira. However, these tours are subject to sea conditions and weather. The presence of pilot whales has been spotted by visitors engaging in these trips.

For those interested in a broader wildlife experience, tours that include drone footage of hikes, such as along the PR1 trail, are highlighted by travelers as an engaging way to capture the natural beauty of Madeira's landscapes and possibly its wildlife from an aerial perspective.