Start with a great book: “The First Global Village” My globe-traveling niece found this book, The First Global Village, How Portugal Changed the World, by Martin Page. When we became completely enamored of the Azores, my brother unearthed and allowed us to borrow it...
Most people don’t seem to know much about the Azores Islands, though the name is somewhat familiar. Where are the islands? Are the Azores safe? Are they part of Portugal? Are they a country? I will try to answer these and other questions, based on my personal...
Almost every parish also has a Zona da Balnear – very special places to swim, sun and dawdle by the water. The two cities, Angra and Praia, have beautiful sandy beaches, with such clear water that you can watch fish when you walk out on the breakwaters. Much of the...
Do you want to learn how to speak European Portuguese? If so, you are in for some good experiences! You will be able to meet new people, go new places, make new friends and get a better understanding of the somewhat enigmatic Portuguse people. European Portuguese and...
This is another (this one pre-Christian!) sweet tradition still going strong on Terceira. One cannot miss the lovely, dollhouse-like chapels located in each village and neighborhood. Each is unique, and most carefully fit the character of their neighborhood, like the...
Tourada de Cordas–Bullfight of Ropes Terceira, along with only a couple of the other smaller islands of the Azores, has a unique bullfighting tradition. No swords. Generally no blood. Lots of spectacle, with an intention to do no harm, have fun and keep everyone...
