Quality of life in Madeira: dream or nightmare for freelancers?

Quality of life in Madeira: dream or nightmare for freelancers?

On January 7, 2025, the report “Happy on the Island?” was broadcast on ZDF. broadcast, which deals with the lives of freelancers on the Portuguese island of Madeira. Madeira, a popular destination in the North Atlantic, is known as a flower paradise and primarily attracts retirees and digital nomads.

The report highlights the lives of Heiko (41) and Nina (29). Heiko has separated from his partner and now lives alone in Madeira. He has difficulty finding an apartment and lives as a sublet. In order to secure his living, he has few jobs as a graphic designer and works in a bar to improve his Portuguese skills. A personal setback occurs when he has to return to Swabia because his mother falls.

Challenges for freelancers

Nina has been living in Madeira for three years and misses the sense of community she experienced in the early days. She manages co-livings for freelancers and offers an all-round service, but is faced with short-term cancellations from residents, which leads to lower income. Punta do Sol, a digital nomad village, is known for its co-working space, but has a high turnover of travelers as well as lots of parties and superficial socializing.

The increase in freelancers in Madeira has changed the island dramatically over the last five years. However, these changes also bring challenges: The cost of living and rents in Madeira have risen sharply and are now comparable to those in Germany. Both locals and newcomers have difficulty finding affordable housing.

Although both Nina and Heiko face uncertainties regarding their long-term quality of life on the island, both have a desire to preserve their dreams, despite current challenges, such as Radio Ennepe Ruhr reported. To gain further insights into the lives of freelancers on Madeira, the report offers ZDF valuable information.

– Submitted by West-East media