Funchal Has the Highest Rental Costs in Portugal
Funchal households face extreme housing costs, spending 100% of their income on rent in the Q3 2025. That is the highest rate in Portugal & more than three times than the recommended 30-33%.
IN FOCUS
Teens in Madeira Drink Less Than in Any Other Region in Portugal
Alcohol and tobacco consumption among Madeira's teens drops sharply, but new challenges emerge with increased gaming, drug use, and gambling, raising concern among public health experts.
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.
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.