IN FOCUS Government Accused of Favoring Companies at Praia Formosa

Government Accused of Favoring Companies at Praia Formosa

PSD-Madeira faces criticism over luxury building plans at Praia Formosa. The party is accused of prioritizing business interests over local residents and reducing public access to one of Funchal’s last free seaside areas.

IN FOCUS Portugal Offers 100% Loan Financing for Young People's First Home

Portugal Offers 100% Loan Financing for Young People's First Home

Until December 2026, the Government offers young people (up to 35) the chance to purchase their first home with 100% financing, eliminating the need for a downpayment and allowing everyone with a decent income to stop renting and purchase a home.

IN FOCUS King of Madeira? Alberto João Jardim’s 37-Year  Legacy of Power

King of Madeira? Alberto João Jardim’s 37-Year Legacy of Power

Alberto João Jardim, known as the King of Madeira, led the island for 37 years, transforming its economy and infrastructure. A charismatic yet polarizing leader, he championed autonomy but faced criticism for debt and authoritarian tendencies.

Madeira Taxi Fare Cut Fails as Taximeters Reject Lower Rates

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

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

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

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 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 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?

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

Madeira Housing Values Rise 18.1% in One Year

In 2025, bank valuations for housing in Madeira increased 18.1% year-on-year.