Colossus: The Rise and Fall of Madeira’s Hotel Atlantis
Rising in 1972, Hotel Atlantis was Madeira’s modernist masterpiece. Once a symbol of luxury, this concrete colossus collapsed within 22 years under the weight of a changing world.
IN FOCUS
Tourist Laughs at Being Ripped-Off at Mercado dos Lavradores
Reputation under fire: Madeira is once again being ridiculed as a viral TikTok shows a tourist at Madeira’s Mercado dos Lavradores laughing to tears and rolling on the floor after being charged a staggering €72 for a few pieces of fruit.
IN FOCUS
Madeira Tourism Hits Record €756 Million in 2024
Madeira's tourism industry hit a record €756.7 million in 2024, growing 15.3%. Key figures show increases in revenue, occupancy, and visitor numbers, with German, UK and Portuguese markets driving growth.
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.