Tuesday, February 09, 2016

The Azores Island,Portugal

                                                      The Azores island, an autonomous area of Portugal form an archipelago in the mid-Atlantic. The islands were first settled in the 15th century and is famous for hiking, whale-watching, blue marlin fishing, surfing and diving. This constitute the biogeographic region of Macaronesia, a name which means "fortunate islands" for those who live there and visit there.

Top things to do:

1.Relax in the hot spring that feeds into the sea at Ponta da Ferraria on  Sao Miguel.
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2.Take a day trip to Aldeia da Cuada on Flores Island- it's the most westerly spot in the whole of Europe.
3.Spot dolphins and whales.
4.Enjoy the panoramic views from the top of Mount Pico, Portugal's highest mountain.
5.Explore the islands by cycling or horse riding.
6.Feast on a bowl of the local fish stew , known as "caldeirada de peixe
7.Visit the vineyards on Pico and try some verdelho wine-it was a favourite of Tsar Nicholas 2
8.With more than 200 endemic and migratory species ,such as the Azores bullfinch, grey wagtail and roseate terns , the region is very popular with birdwatchers.
9.Scuba dive off the coast of Terceira Island to see the graveyard of ancient ship anchors and marine life such as eagle rays and octopus.
10.Take an afternoon stroll around the beautiful 17th century buildings of the town of Angra do Heroismo-a UNESCO protected site.

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                                                               The best time to travel depends on what your interests are. But in general April and October will be the best time.24 of the planet's 80 species of whales and dolphins have been sighted off the coast of the Azores. During the summer months (Jul-Aug) migratory species including pods of baleen whales, pilot and beaked whales, Atlantic-spotted dolphins, striped dolphins and turtles pass the islands. Whereas, in winter and spring (Oct-Jun), species of baleen whales such as fin whales,  whales, humpback whales and blue whales are likely to be seen.


Highlights of Azores:
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Image result for wildlife in azores islandSea activities such as whale and dolphin watching excursions, swimming with dolphins, trips on a glass bottomed boat; guided island tours with plenty of photo stop opportunities; colourful festivals including the Festas de Santo Cristo (Christ of Miracles) – the second largest religious festival in Portugal which takes place in Ponta Delgada between 02-09 May; bathing in a thermal pool; walking through the botanical gardens of Furnas; visiting the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Angra do Heroismo (Terceira); ordering a gin and tonic at Peter's Cafe (Faial) – a must for any visitor to the island; and a climb up Mount Pico, the highest point (2,351km) in Portugal
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                                                 Totally this place is a visual treat!!
                        #beautyatitsbest
  

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