Visited Madeira in November. Yes, it rained, but for the most part weather was warm enough for sitting outside in short sleeves and ideal for walking and sight seeing. Funchal is a fascinating place to explore. The cathedral is worth a visit and the market is a bright splash of colour, selling vegetables, fish of every kind and of course flowers. Even in November there are flowers all over Madeira. There are hidden gardens like the Quinta das Cruzes, a steep climb up but well worth it. The open-top, hop on hop off bus tour is good value, particularly if you realise that the ticket is valued for 2 days. Canico where I stayed had fantastic scenery but was very windy. The smaller, more sheltered bays in the South West are probably better for a winter break. For a cheap cup of tea and a cake do what the locals do and visit an Opan. This shop, selling bread and cakes has also a cafe attached. Tea (served without milk) and a cake cost around 2 Euros, depending on the kind of cake you choose. There was so much to see I will have to go back!