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The Azores archipelago is an autonomous region of Portugal , located
in the Atlantic Ocean . All 9 volcanic islands are inhabited.
The
eastern group comprise Santa Maria and São Miguel and Formigas
Islets, the central group include Terceira , Graciosa, São
Jorge, Pico, Faial , and the western group consists of Flores and
Corvo. The islands are situated approx. 1500 km from the European
coast and approx. 4000 km from the N. American coast. Most travel
between the islands is by air or ferry. Portuguese is the main language
so it is good to take your phrase book and learn a few words.
The Azores is covered with numerous types of flowers. The island
of Flores lives up to its name in this regard. The most seen is Hortencias
which grows on all the islands, as well as azalea, camellia, mahogany,
Japanese pine, heather and wild ginger. The islands are also a resting
stop for many migrating birds due to the location being roughly halfway
between Europe and America .
Christopher Columbus visited the islands in 1493 and the Azores
were uninhabited until the fifteenth century. The first colony was
at Porto on Santa Maria . The Azores was granted autonomy from Portugal
in 1976 and has its own parliament and government. The Azores is
still a popular stopping-off point for sailboats and all types of
vessels making Atlantic crossings.
Agriculture and fishing are the main industries. The Azores ’ tropical
climate allows for crops such as bananas, pineapples, tea and tobacco.
Breeding of livestock and dairy cattle is an important aspect along
with production of milk, cheese, butter which are the main exports
The Azores is not a primary destination for sunseekers or beach
lovers, although there are a few small white sandy beaches. However,
the islands do offer abundant natural beauty and beautiful scenery.
The lack of hoards of tourists is part of its appeal to those wishing
to avoid crowds. |
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The Azores is great for walking in the mountain areas or around
the crater lakes, which offer wonderful views. There is scuba diving
on São Miguel island and there are nautical centers located
on all the islands. Sailing cruises are available as are sport fishing
expeditions. The Azores is renowned for the variety of sport fish,
including marlin, tuna, wahoo and some types of shark. During the
summer months whale watching trips are available. All the islands
offer good hiking opportunities, or visitors may choose to explore
by horseback, bicycle or scooter. The volcano on Pico island, at
approx. 2342 meters is popular for mountaineering enthusiasts. Tennis
is also widely available.
The island of Terceira offers sights for those who like to explore
caves. The adventurous might also enjoy paragliding which is available
on several of the islands for a really spectacular view of the archipelago.
Windsurfing is available in some places. Also Portuguese bullfighting
and running with the bulls can be seen on the islands of Terceira
and Graciosa. For golf enthusiasts there are courses on both São
Miguel and Terceira islands.
There are internet cafes and restaurants, and shoppers can amble
and browse the local handicrafts, including pottery and embroidery.
Facts
President: Carlos César
Capital: Ponta Delgada
Population: Approx. 240,000 (for the 9 islands)
Time Zone: UTC-1 (summer UTC)
Currency: Euro
Country Dialling Code: 351
Weather
/ Climate
The Azores has a temperate climate for most of the year. Some rainfall
is common throughout the year, although greater during the winter
months. Average temperatures are around 17 C, but cool to around
13-14 C during the winter months (January-February) and 22-23 C during
the summer months (July-August). Due to the warming influence of
the Gulf Stream , the water temperatures are approx. 15-16 C during
the coldest months, to 20-22 C in the warmest.
Health
Links
www.drtacores.pt The official
Azores tourism board site, includes maps, history, geography and
climate information as well as sports and cultural activities.
Disclaimer: While we have tried to ensure this information
is correct we do not accept responsibility for any inaccuracy.
* Inclusion on this guide does not guarantee travel insurance is available in this country at any given time. Travel Insurance is not available in countries for which the FCO advise against travel to.
** The FCO advised against travel to countries marked thus at the time of writing. Travel Insurance is not available in areas where the FCO advise against travel to.
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