SIGA Bus Network Explained: Tickets, Tips, and Fares for 2026
Traveling Madeira by bus? With SIGA continuing to reshape the island’s public transport, here are 20 up-to-date answers to travel Madeira with ease. Got more questions? Leave a comment!
IN FOCUS
Portugal Slips To 15th Spot In Expat Ranking
Portugal slips to 15th position in the 2024 Expat Insider ranking from InterNations. It remains attractive due to high quality of life, favorable climate, and welcoming locals.
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.
Trespassing at Praia Formosa Now Results in Fines of Up to €300
Persistent disregard for safety warnings at Praia Formosa has led officials to activate fines under a long-standing maritime safety law.
Suffering from Obesity and Diabetes? SNS Now Covers Ozempic
The expensive drug Ozempic is now covered by SNS in Portugal, offering treatment for people with diabetes and obesity, addressing the needs of many in Madeira.
Waste Recycling? Barely a Thing in Madeira
Eco-Tourism? Not quite yet. In 2024, Madeira recycled just 17% of its growing urban waste, far below Portugal’s 70% national target for 2030.
Nurses Flag Care Risks, SESARAM Responds With 16 New Hires
Nurses in Madeira have recently spoken out, stating that they cannot be held liable for failures in care caused by excessive workloads. Their powerful protest led SESARAM to respond by announcing new hires intended to ease pressure on emergency services.
Ponta do Sol Plans to Reopen Lugar de Baixo Marina
Ponta do Sol plans to reopen the Lugar de Baixo marina, turning the failed project into a seaside leisure area by 2027 at the latest.
Should Madeira Spread Tourism Beyond Crowded Hotspots?
Sustainability consultant Paulo Brehm warns Madeira must rethink tourism, guiding visitors to less-crowded areas, involving residents, and considering a single regional tax.
Madeira Housing Values Rise 18.1% in One Year
In 2025, bank valuations for housing in Madeira increased 18.1% year-on-year.
Citizens Warn of Criminals Posing as Ministry Officials
According to JM-Madeira, residents of Madeira warn on social media about well-dressed scammers currently posing as Ministry officials, asking for personal information.