Portugal’s President: Symbolic Figure With Real Power
Between ceremony and authority, Portugal’s presidency reveals its influence at decisive moments. Here’s what the Portuguese President can - and cannot - do under the Constitution.
IN FOCUS
AirBaltic Flight Struggles to Land at Madeira Airport
An AirBaltic flight faced extreme difficulty during its descent before making a last-second touchdown at Madeira Airport today.
IN FOCUS
Housing Loans in Madeira Grow 30%, Wakening 2008 Crisis Risks
Madeirans borrowed €570 million, mostly for buying homes, a 30% increase from 2023. Experts warn that high debt levels could trigger 2008-style risks if property values drop or incomes and interest rates change.
Madeira Housing Prices Fall 8.3% in Late 2025 Despite National Rise
Madeira saw housing prices fall 8.3% in 2025, standing out from most Portuguese regions, where property values continued to rise despite fewer transactions nationwide.
Hotel Union Calls PSD Labour Proposal “Biggest Setback Since 1974”
The Madeira Hotel Union says PSD labour reforms could lead to unpaid work, weaken protections and change dismissal rules, calling them the biggest setback in workers’ rights since 1974.
Try the Madeira Bus App: An Interview with the Developer
The Madeira Bus App is the work of a single developer driven by a simple goal: to help people navigate Madeira more easily. Here’s what he has to say.
Power Without Expiry: PSD Madeira Removes Term Limits
After 50 years of being in power, the PSD has scrapped leadership term limits introduced in 2015, allowing the president - designated a formal suspect and shielded by political immunity - to remain party leader indefinitely and seek re-election.
Why Are Palms at Praia Formosa Left to Die?
Funchal’s Praia Formosa promenade welcomes visitors with dozens of dried and dying plants, left to decay for no apparent reason - a meaningful and costly investment going to waste, despite the installation of an extensive irrigation network. Why?
Rents in Portugal Fall for Third Month as Supply Increases
Prices for renting in Madeira increased 5.0% since December and 5.2% year-on-year.
Funchal Approves Small Mosque Project at Praia Formosa
A four-year legal dispute between the Espaço Islâmico da Madeira and the Funchal City Council has come to a close, paving the way for a mosque at Praia Formosa. With provisional planning approved back in 2025, construction is set to begin this summer.
Madeira Taxi Fare Cut Fails as Taximeters Reject Lower Rates
Bummer! Madeira taxis failed to lower fares by adjusting taximeters, revealing a setup that does not allow price decreases.