Last May 13, I flew on United Airline’s inagural non-stop flight from Newark to Ponta Delgada in the Azores. The Azores are an autonomous region of Portugal. The mid-Atlantic archipelago has nine islands, four of which I’m exploring: Sao Miguel, Pico, Faial and Terceira.

My top reasons for traveling to the Azores

It’s relatively undiscovered

In the short time I’ve been here, Azoreans have asked me how I know about their islands. They follow it up with a whisper, “This used to be a secret.”

It’s now easy to get to

In less than six hours, the Azores can be reached on non-stop flights from Boston and New York.

Dramatic Landscapes

The Azores were formed by volcanic eruptions millions of years ago. There are lava fields, crater lakes, natural pools, hydrangea-lined roads and more cows than locals.

From Whale Hunting to Whale Watching

For many islanders, whaling was their tradition and source of income. It all stopped in 1986 and now companies rely on tourists who pay to go out to sea and watch whales and dolphins. In Pico, we spotted two blue whales and schools of common and striped dolphins.

Food and Wine

Tuna, octopus salad, limpets, pineapples, volcanic white wine, passion fruit soda, Gorreana green tea, Bolo Levedo bread, grass-fed beef, Sao Jorge cheeses…these are a few of my favorite things.

Rest or Play

There are so many well-marked hiking and biking trails in the islands. Surfers love Sao Miguel and divers love Pico. The air is clean and the pace is slow. Perfect for active and nature lovers and still under-developed to feel the authentic Azorean way of life.

Best Time to Go

is between the months of April and October with July-August as high season. Azoreans will tell you to expect the four seasons in one day so dress in layers.

Know Before You Go

Sao Miguel and Terceira have international airports and bigger hotels, mostly 4* The other islands have smaller boutique properties and availability becomes an issue during high season. A car rental is a must with an availability and price issue for last minute bookings. Do not expect mainland services and offerings. Take two steps back and appreciate the Azores for its unique beauty and qualities. It’s a safe destination. Being a small island, everyone knows everyone and Azoreans are kind and friendly people. Let’s plan your trip!