beautiful botanical garden with thermal pools
surfing the waves at santa barbara beach
late night thermal pool option
The weather in the Azores can be unpredictable. It will be cool and humid in the morning, then the sun will warm up during the day. It will also vary depending what part of the island you are. We recommend packing layers, a swimsuit (bring a dark or old swimsuit for thermal pools), and a raincoat and/or umbrella. Generally it is high 50s- mid 60s.
The Azores are part of Portugal and the European Union and use the Euro. We recommend carrying cash for restaurants and shopping.
The Azores are known for their seafood, grass-fed beef and produce including citrus and avocado. Some dishes that were recommended include: bacalhau au bras (codfish with eggs and potatoes), bife a regional (steak with garlic and potatoes), bolo levado (a sweet bread made in Furnas), Queijo Sao Jorge (hard sharp cheese from the neighboring island Sao Jorge)
Wine! Portugal is known for their many wine regions. Try Vinho verde, white wine with notes like green apple or a vinho tinto, a fresh and light red with notes of strawberry and floral. There is also a Gin Library on the island. Also, go ahead and drink the tap water. Portuguese tap water issafe to drink, though the taste varies across regions.
Old or dark bathing suit for thermal pools (natural minerals may stain) Raincoat, small umbrella if you'd like Lightweight jacket Shoes to hike in (nothing too strenuous, but may get dirty) Bring a universal plug adapter if you have one. (Most sockets in Europe have two rounded holes. BE CAREFUL as the voltage is 220-240V AC).
Most tourist destinations and restaurants speak basic english. It is also helpful to download Google Translate on your phone before you go. You can always ask "Fala ingles?" (Do you speak english?) Here are some Portuguese phrases you can practice https://www.trafalgar.com/real-word/basic-portuguese-phrases/