AZORES

The Azores enjoy mild, oceanic weather year-round, but the best time to visit depends on your activities:

• May–September (Summer & Peak Season): Best for hiking, whale watching, and warm weather.
• October–April (Off-Peak & Cooler Season): Ideal for hot springs, fewer crowds, and lower prices.
• June–August (Festival Season): Perfect for experiencing cultural events and vibrant island life.

• Sete Cidades (São Miguel Island) – A breathtaking twin-lake crater surrounded by lush greenery.
• Furnas Valley (São Miguel Island) – Famous for hot springs, volcanic steam vents, and Cozido stew.
• Pico Mountain (Pico Island) – The highest peak in Portugal, offering a challenging but rewarding hike.
• Whale Watching (Pico & São Miguel Islands) – The Azores are one of the world’s best places to see whales and dolphins.
• Terceira Island’s Angra do Heroísmo – A UNESCO-listed colonial town with rich history and architecture.
• Capelinhos Volcano (Faial Island) – A unique lunar-like landscape formed by a volcanic eruption.
• Lagoa do Fogo (São Miguel Island) – A pristine blue lake set in a volcanic crater.
• Algar do Carvão (Terceira Island) – A stunning lava cave with an underground lake.
• Gruta das Torres (Pico Island) – The largest lava tube in Portugal, perfect for caving enthusiasts.
• Santa Maria Island’s White Sand Beaches – The only island in the Azores with golden beaches.

• Cozido das Furnas – A traditional stew slow-cooked underground by volcanic heat.
• Lapas Grelhadas (Grilled Limpets) – A delicious seafood delicacy served with garlic butter.
• Bolo Lêvedo – A sweet, fluffy Azorean bread, often eaten for breakfast.
• Queijo de São Jorge – A rich, aged cheese from São Jorge Island, famous for its bold flavor.
• Alcatra (Terceira Island) – A slow-cooked, spiced beef stew with red wine.
• Chicharros Fritos – Fried blue jack mackerel, a local favorite.
• Ananás dos Açores (Azorean Pineapple) – Grown in greenhouses and famous for its sweet flavor.
• Passion Fruit Liqueur – A sweet, fruity liqueur unique to the islands.
• Espécies (Spiced Cookies) – A traditional sweet treat from São Jorge Island.
• Azorean Wine (Pico Island) – Volcanic wines grown in UNESCO-listed vineyards.

• Flights: Arrive at João Paulo II Airport (PDL) in São Miguel, the main gateway to the Azores.
• Inter-Island Flights: Azores Airlines connects all nine islands efficiently.
• Ferries: Atlanticoline ferries operate between islands, especially during summer.
• Car Rentals: The best way to explore each island at your own pace.
• Taxis & Private Transfers: Available in major towns and tourist areas.
• Bicycles & Scooters: Great for exploring smaller villages and coastal routes.

• For U.S. travelers: No visa required for stays up to 90 days, but a valid passport is necessary.
• For international travelers: Check Portugal’s Schengen visa requirements based on nationality.
• EU Travelers: Can enter freely with a valid national ID or passport.

• Currency: Euro (€ EUR).
• Credit cards are widely accepted, but cash is useful for small businesses and rural areas.
• ATMs are available throughout the islands, offering good exchange rates.
• Currency exchange is available at the airport and major towns.

• Portuguese is the official language.
• English is widely spoken in tourist areas, hotels, and restaurants.
• Learning basic Portuguese phrases like “Obrigado” (Thank you) is appreciated.

• Azoreans are warm and welcoming—greet people with “Bom dia” (Good morning).
• Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory – 5–10% is common at restaurants.
• Respect nature—stay on marked trails and don’t disturb wildlife.
• Island life is relaxed—things move at a slower pace, especially in smaller villages.
• Traditional festivals are an important part of Azorean culture—join in and enjoy!

• Restaurants: 5–10% tip is standard, but some places include a service charge.
• Bars & Cafés: Rounding up or leaving small change is appreciated.
• Hotels: €1–2 per bag for bellhops, €2–5 per night for housekeeping.
• Taxis: Tipping is not required, but rounding up is polite.
• Tour Guides & Excursions: €5–10 per person for excellent service.

• For peak season (June–September): Book 6–12 months in advance for hotels and flights.
• For off-season travel (October–May): Booking a few weeks ahead is usually fine.
• For whale watching and guided hikes: Book at least a few weeks in advance.

• No COVID-19 test is required for entry, but check for updates before traveling.
• Some hiking trails and natural parks require permits—check in advance.
• Swimming in volcanic hot springs? Bring a dark swimsuit—the iron-rich water can stain fabric.

Contact us at 281-229-0862 or admin@pointmetoparadise.com