The things you ask at reception, in one place:
- Plugs: European two-pin (type F), 230 V. British and American visitors need an adapter; the hotel will usually lend one.
- Tap water: safe to drink everywhere on the island, and good. No need to buy bottles.
- Phone: EU SIM cards roam here at no extra cost. UK, US and other visitors pay roaming. A Portugal or Europe eSIM (Airalo, Holafly, Vodafone Travel) bought before you fly is the cheap fix. Coverage is good in towns and along the coast, poor in the mountains and on the levadas. Download your tours before you set off.
- Tourist tax: most councils charge €2 per person per night (under-13s free), for up to seven nights, paid at the hotel or apartment on arrival. It is not a scam.
- Pharmacies (farmácia): the green cross, everywhere, and the pharmacist can advise on small things. Out of hours, one in each area stays open, and the list is on the door.
- Doctor: the private clinics in Funchal see visitors quickly; the public hospital is Dr. Nélio Mendonça, in Funchal. Emergency number 112.
- Shops close for lunch in the villages; supermarkets do not.
- Wi-Fi: free in most cafés and in Funchal's squares.