Rejoice, the award-winning islands of Madeira are officially open and welcoming international travellers with open arms, after putting comprehensive plans in place and adopting various protective measures to ensure the safety of every resident and visitor in the wake of COVID-19.
In fact, Madeira was a pioneer in the whole of Portugal in developing a good practices document to deal with COVID-19. These measures will provide reassurance to those who travel and it is ultimately for the wellbeing of all.
Holidaymakers can also take comfort safe in the knowlegde that there are currently very few active cases of the virus in Madeira.
Arriving At Madeira’s Airports
The social distancing, hand washing and mask wearing measures we’ve all become accustomed to will be in place at the airport, but you will also have to complete a health questionnaire and pass a thermal screening to successfully check out.
In addition to this, if you arrive in the archipelago having not completed a COVID-19 test in the 72 hours before departure from the UK*, you will be given a FREE test at the airport. Luckily, this should take no longer than one hour to complete.
You’ll have to stay in your accommodation until the results have been confirmed, but can expect to receive them by email within 12 hours and can use this time to get all your unpacking sorted. Providing the test comes back negative, you’ll be allowed to enjoy your holiday as planned.
However, if the test is positive, you and your party will be expected to isolate at a designated hotel for a further seven days, before being subjected to a new test that will have to come back negative for you to proceed with your holiday plans. Rest assured, all costs (medical, accommodation and meals) will be paid by the local government during the mandatory confinement period.
*Please note that children younger than 12 years of age do not have to be tested, except for suspected cases.
COVID-19 Secure
In order to be renowned as a ‘safe destination’, the islands have been working with SGS, the world leader in certification to ensure good practice. Therefore, you should expect to see the reassuring “MADEIRA SAFE TO DISCOVER” symbol dotted across companies working within the tourism sector, as well as the “CLEAN & SAFE” stamp created by Visit Portugal to showcase the businesses complying with the hygiene and cleaning requirements for the prevention and control of the virus and/or any other possible infections.
As an extension of these measures, it is compulsory for everyone aged six and over to wear a face mask outdoors, unless you are exempt, exercising or on the beach. These exceptions are in place so that the comfort and enjoyment of outdoor spaces for leisure and exercise are not compromised.
Social distancing should also be maintained at all times.
Leaving Madeira
You’ll be relieved to hear that you can enjoy a holiday in Madeira and not have to quarantine on return to the UK.