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An Oman Family Holiday

By
Jo Dickie
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Oman Family Holiday
Oman Family Holiday
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An Oman Family Holiday

Sometimes there is a destination in the world that was never on your radar but subconsciously you keep hearing positive references to it. At first, you don’t take it in, however, there comes a point, with so many glowing references being shared, that your attention is finally caught and you have to find out what all the fuss is about.

This has been the case with me in Oman. When the company I most recently worked for decided to launch a selection of holidays, it was time to understand why there has been this outpouring of affection for this relatively unknown corner of the Middle East.

Thankfully at Beachcomber Tours, there is someone who truly knows her stuff and takes it upon herself to discover the true heart of a country before unleashing her knowledge to the wider audience – that person is Jo Dickie who has visited on business and for her Oman family holiday. Here is what she has made of Oman during her visits.

A Unique Yet Unknown Paradise

I have a confession to make, I might have painted the country of Oman with the same brush when I first heard about it. I just assumed it would be just another country in the Middle East, all glitzy glamorous hotels and amazing shining skyscrapers. Having been to Dubai and Abu Dhabi I just thought it would be another tick box like them… how wrong was I!!

Oman is so diverse, from the ancient forts in Nizwa, the abandoned villages in the Palmaries, the breathtaking views in the Jebal Akdhar Mountains, the Musandam peninsula in the north and the green tropics of Salalah in the South. Natural wadis to explore, the incredible deserts, the wild and marine-rich coastal areas and the most friendly and welcoming people. It has been THE most amazing and surprising place I have ever visited. I went three times in 2019 as I just had to explore more and more!

My first visit took me to Muscat, Nizwa and the mountains of Jebal Akdhar. The Desert at Bidiyah and Wadi Bani Khalid and then down to Salalah in the South.

We had the most amazing guide Ahmed (follow @OmanHoliday on Instagram for inspiring photos!) he was patient and happy to answer all my questions about the country, and the Bedouin lifestyle and had so much knowledge of his beautiful country, he is truly proud of his heritage and enjoys sharing his passion to make sure his guests experience the best of Oman.

Nizwa

After our first night in Muscat, we were taken to Nizwa, the impressive ancient fort was fascinating to explore learning about the many defence tactics used all those years ago! The Friday market here is a real eye-opener to the ancient times too and has to be seen, organised chaos comes to mind! The souk is another favourite to be explored, with little alleyways full of mystery and so many local things to buy with a fun haggle with the locals from textiles, silverware and jewellery and of course dates, nuts, spices and lots of pottery!

We travelled up to the mountains, where the village at Jebal Akdhar stands at over 2000m, as you wander the streets there are no street names or numbers but the personalised doors, with stars and symbols, are the way the houses are identified.

Jebal Akdhar

Two hotels up here give a real sense of escapism, Alila and the Anantara Jebal Akdhar with incredible views of the gorges and mountain ranges. Both are relaxing with amazing spas and offer treks and activities whilst in the area. Travelling down the next day to the Desert, when the dunes appear before you, the camels freely roam and realise how remote you are. How can people live here?!

We met our guide’s family at their camp. We enjoyed coffee and dates and were shown true Bedouin hospitality by being invited back the next day for Omani breakfast. The Desert has so much nature and the best dark skies for star gazing.

There is something so special about being out in the Desert and visiting this area shouldn’t be missed.

Salalah

In the last part of this trip, we visited the tropical south of Oman, Salalah. It is a beach paradise, open wide Sandy beaches with no one in sight, it’s much quieter in the south and has more of a beach vibe, this area is mainly known for the Frankincense that grows here and from June to September the Monsoon season which is high season for the locals as they flock here for the rain!

Wadi Shad

After returning from such an adventure, I booked an Oman family holiday as I couldn’t wait to explore more of this beautiful country of Oman. I decided to take my boys to stay at the Shangri La Al Waha for family time. This is a fantastic family resort part of the Barr Al Jissah, my boys especially loved it here, soft play, slides and the lazy river pool but it was also the perfect base to see more of Muscat and for a long day out to explore Wadi Shad, a huge gorge with a river running through it about a 90-minute drive.

As you meander deeper into the Wadi there are freshwater pools which are perfect for a refreshing dip, you can swim up and through the pools, until you come to a cave at the end and are rewarded with a beautiful cascade inside, we drove back via the Bimmah sinkhole, where locals were climbing high and diving into the water.

Musandam

In November I was able to visit the Musandam region whilst staying in Ras Al Khaimah… I chose the more adventurous transfer of flying into the resort by paragliding off the mountains into Zighy Bay, otherwise, arrivals by speedboat or 4×4 can also be arranged.

The Six Senses hotel is incredible and would recommend adding it to your bucket list, the hotel’s ethos is all about sustainability, experience and wellness, you relax as soon as you arrive, and your GEM looks after all your needs. Tucked away in a bay, the local village and natural wonders around this area make this one of the most special places I have ever stayed.

When you experience a moment it stays with you and mine was sitting alone on the beach at Zighy Bay at 5 am to watch the sunrise, the sun slowly rose out of the sea to the East, so peaceful just sitting watching and listening to the waves and in the distance, I could hear the call to prayer from the nearby mosque this remains a special moment that will always stay with me.

I feel so lucky to have been able to experience just some of what an Oman family holiday has to offer.

Contact Information

Beachcomber Tours is a specialist tour operator featuring a wide selection of luxury holidays to several destinations including, of course, Oman in the Middle East.

You can contact Jo and her team directly or please visit your local travel agent for more details.

T: 01483 445610
E: holidays@beachcombertours.uk
W: www.beachcombertours.UK

The Wildlife of Canada

By
Prestige Travel
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Wildlife of Canada Moose
Wildlife of Canada Moose
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Wildlife Of Canada

Some of my most memorable travelling adventures and experiences have taken place in Canada – whilst I love the cities, and the people it is the wildlife of Canada that grabs my attention the most.

Back in 1986 I won a holiday at a travel industry event to Hawaii in a raffle with Canadian Pacific Airlines and stopped en route in Vancouver. From that brief 48-hour stay my love of the country was cemented.

In the mid-nineties, I travelled through the heart of the US ending up in Toronto where I stayed with an old school friend who had landed a job with a bank. I loved Toronto both in the cosmopolitan city itself and also just out of town where I skied at the pretty Blue Mountain resort.

Fast forward to 2018 and it was my 50th birthday. I needed an adventure so once again it was a US road trip that was calling. This time I took a journey from New York up through Cape Cod followed by an epic drive along the “Old Canada Road” up to Montreal and on to Quebec where I disappeared from all human trace (and the internet) in the sensational national parks north of the city.

I intended to see bears and moose however I was unlucky – in fact, all I saw aside from the awe-inspiring scenery was a few birds. If I ever choose to try to discover the wildlife of Canada again then it’s with the specialist Prestige Travel who I would contact. Their knowledge of the country, its attractions, the best places to stay and also the wildlife is outstanding.

If you need proof – here is their blog on the wildlife of Canada!

Natures Best

Canada offers a wide range of wildlife diversity and some of the most accessible viewing opportunities in the world. From the Atlantic Provinces to British Columbia on the Pacific Coast, you’re spoiled for choice; whale watching, a host of other marine wildlife, birds galore, black, grizzly, polar and even the elusive Spirit Bear, elk, moose, deer, mountain sheep and goats….the list is endless.

There are many pre-bookable excursions available together with multiple nights’ stays at lodges specifically aimed at wildlife viewing but throughout the Rocky Mountains, you can often see black bears, elk, mountain sheep & goats along the roadside.

Here is a brief overview but, of course, for more information just contact us at Prestige Holidays Canada!

Atlantic Provinces

From either Digby in Nova Scotia or St Andrews by the Sea in New Brunswick, enjoy a boat excursion looking for whales in the Bay of Fundy, where in the summer, up to 12 species of whales are to be found. Used as a feeding ground and as a nursery, the waters are rich with krill, squid, and schools of young herring. Common sightings are Humpback, Minke and Finback whales while other species include Sei, Pilot, and North Atlantic Right whales together with quite an elusive Blue, Sperm, Beluga and Killer Whales.

During June, Twillingate in Newfoundland offers a chance to see both icebergs and Humpback whales on one excursion. When taking the trip from Bay Bulls, there is the chance to spot puffins and whales. Gros Morne National Park is home to both moose and caribou.

The Cape Breton Highlands area of Nova Scotia boasts a large population of moose and black bears and from Cheticamp, you can take a whale-watching excursion and frequent sightings include Pilot, Minke and Finback Whales.

Humpback Whale, Wildlife of Canada

Quebec

From Tadoussac & Baie-Sainte-Catherine take a whale-watching trip on the mighty St. Lawrence River at the mouth of the Saguenay River. Recognised as one of the best whale-watching areas in the world, the waters are rich with krill and attract Minke, Humpback, Finback and Sperm whales and also Blue whales. There is also the chance of seeing Beluga whales as they are the only cetacean species to live in the St Lawrence year-round.

Not far from Tadoussac is Sacre-Coeur and here you can take an excursion to see black bears and the occasional beaver. Watch the bear in their natural environment as your guide offers commentary on specific habitat needs and behavioural traits.

Quebec Canada

Ontario

Algonquin Provincial Park is home to moose, black bear, moose, porcupine, white-tailed deer, and wolves. Generally, moose are best spotted early morning/evening in ponds and lakes feeding on lilies, pondweed, and grasses. There is also a host of birdlife in the park including great blue heron, loon, ducks, jay and chickadees to name just a few.

Manitoba

Riding National Park offers the chance to see moose, black bears, elk, and even bison together with a wide range of birdlife and butterflies. However, Manitoba is best known for polar bear viewing with Churchill, on the Hudson Bay, having the nickname of ‘Polar Bear Capital of the World. In summer, the Bay is home to around 60,000 beluga whales who come for feeding, mating and giving birth in the warm waters. In summer too it’s also quite possible to see polar bears as they leave the melting sea ice.  Other sightings include arctic fox, hare, seals, and a host of nesting or migrating birds

Between October and mid-November, visitors flock to Churchill to see the majestic polar bears who are waiting for the winter icepack to freeze on Hudson Bay. Tours by specially designed vehicles take you to the Churchill Wildlife Management Area where the bears congregate; they are very curious and far from shy so sometimes they come right alongside the vehicles – a great photo opportunity! As well as polar bears you’ll often see an arctic fox, arctic hare, ptarmigan, and even snowy owls.

Hiking, Wildlife of Canada

Alberta

Banff and Jasper National Parks are home to a cornucopia of Canada’s Wildlife including black and grizzly bears, mountain goats and sheep, elk, deer, moose, wolf, and coyote and many of these can be seen while driving around. In both Banff and Jasper towns, there are guided wildlife viewing excursions with local guides who know the area so well and therefore know where the best opportunities are to see certain animals.

For example, in Banff, mountain sheep can often be seen around Two Jack Lake viewpoint and elk around Vermillion Lakes. Lake Louise offers the best chance of seeing grizzly bears and a ride on the sightseeing lift is recommended as they can often be seen on the ski slopes feeding on clover, grasses, and wildflowers.

The road between Lake Louise and Jasper is the Icefields Parkway, recognised as one of the top 10 drives in North America. The only time you’ll see a traffic jam is when there’s wildlife roadside; look out for cars pulled off to the side and see if it’s a ‘bear jam’….the name says it all!

In Jasper, the road leading to Maligne Lake is a wildlife corridor with frequent sightings of black bears, mountain sheep and elk along the roadside.

British Columbia

Where to start? The province of British Columbia will enthral you with its diversity of wildlife viewing due to the variety of landscapes. Just to whet your appetite here are some ideas:

Vancouver Island – 3 resident pods of Orca inhabit the waters around Victoria and sometimes a pod of transient Orca can be seen. Humpback whales, dolphins, porpoises, seals, sea lions, sea otters and a myriad of sea birds can be seen including bald eagles.

Tofino – Specific excursions can be taken to view whales (mainly Pacific Gray) and other marine wildlife while, at low tide, you can enjoy a black bear viewing tour. The bears come to the shoreline in search of their favourite food, rock crabs, but they’re also over-turning rocks looking for clams and other molluscs.

Telegraph Cove – The area of Johnstone Strait is recognised as one of the world’s best areas for Orca viewing but there’s also a good chance of seeing Humpback as well as other marine wildlife.

Campbell River – Whale watching excursions operate from here to Johnstone Strait and full-day excursions travel to Bute or Knight Inlet looking for grizzly bears during September & October.

Grizzly Bear Watching

Grizzly Bear Viewing Lodges – Offering multi-day packages there are some amazing lodges in remote areas specifically aimed at Grizzly Bear viewing. For example, Knight Inlet Lodge (spring to late August – mum & cub viewing while late August to mid-October – it is viewing bears feasting on salmon), Farewell Harbour Lodge (bears and whales) and Great Bear Lodge. There’s also Spirit Bear Lodge looking, as the name suggests, for the elusive Spirit Bear (Kermode bear) which is a black bear with a double-recessive gene which gives the bear creamy-coloured fur.

On the mainland, there are also bear-viewing lodges such as Tweedsmuir and Wild Bear Lodge.

Whistler offers a great chance of seeing black bears as the area is home to around 80 bears, and they can often be seen on the ski slopes feeding on wildflowers, clover, and grass.

As you can tell British Columbia offers amazing viewing opportunities for bears, whales and other marine wildlife. Bear viewing day excursions or lodges for multi-day viewing are also available. Whale watching can be by boat, zodiac or even kayak!

The Yukon

Another province which offers more amazing wildlife in Canada is the Yukon. Chances are you may see black bears, red foxes, deer, moose, wolves, Dalls’ sheep, woodland caribou, lynx and more.

As there’s little traffic, animals think nothing of just walking across the road so always keep a lookout.

Contact Information

Prestige Travel is a travel specialist for Canada and Alaska in the United States of America. Each of their holidays is tailored to your specific needs and interests. The unique combination of cities, countryside, mountains, train journeys, cruises and wildlife make for many fantastic and varied memories to cherish.

You can book Prestige Travel to Canada with your local travel agent or contact them as below.

T: 01502 567222
E: Canada@prestigeholidays.co.uk
W: www.prestigecanada.co.uk

72 Hours in Istanbul

By
Lorna Willis Edwards
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72 Hours in Istanbul
72 Hours in Istanbul
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72 Hours In Istanbul

Istanbul, formerly known as Constantinople, Byzantium and Stamboul, is the largest city and principal seaport of Turkey. This vibrant metropolis has always intrigued me, in part due to its history but mainly due to its unique location at the crossroads of where Europe meets Asia on the iconic Bosphorus Strait.

In recent years and with my travel industry “Fez” on, I have become increasingly aware of the size and quality of Turkish Airlines. They have been regularly voted the Best Airline in Europe and often top the rankings in various Worldwide Airline Award ceremonies too. What’s more, the country has in recent times, created an impressive NEW Istanbul airport, the largest in the world and a major international hub with six runways and four terminals. Turkey is a country ready for business and indeed ready for tourism!

One such tourist who also happens to be a very good friend of mine is Lorna Willis Edwards and she recently got in touch offering to send in a guest blog following her recent visit to the city.

Here is what she had to say about her 72 hours in Istanbul:

What To See during 72 Hours in Istanbul

An extraordinary mix of sights, sounds, smells and experiences is around every corner!

On our first evening, we took a sunset yacht cruise on the Bosphorus which helped us get our bearings. We saw both European and Asian sides and magnificent views of some of the beautiful Ottoman palaces and mansions which line the shores. These ornate buildings catch the glorious pink sunset with the mosques, bridges, and palaces silhouetted against the sky.

In Sultanahmet, we found it easy to fit quite a few of the main sights in one day. The Topkapi Palace and Harem give a fascinating idea of how the Sultans lived during the Ottoman Empire, the buildings are beautiful! The Hagia Sofia, a World Heritage Site recently (and controversially) converted back into a mosque after operating as a museum since the 1930s, now has less to view but no entrance fee.

The Basilica Cistern is part of an impressive ancient water filtration system underneath the city and the Blue Mosque with its 6 minarets with amazing architecture and impressive interiors.

Strolling The City

On our second full day, we took the funicular up to Taksim Square and took a leisurely walk down the Istakil Caddesi (the main street) taking in the mixture of local and international shops, and bars, funky side streets, the historical red trams and the Galata Tower. A fabulous walk which takes you downhill to vibrant Karaköy with its trendy cafes. From there you can cross Galata Bridge and take lunch or dinner in one of the many fish restaurants!

On our final day, we had a stroll through the back streets and made our way to the historic and colourful Spice Bazaar and markets and then to the Grand Bazaar which is just mind-bogglingly huge but be prepared to haggle… lots!

If you’re a fan of Turkish Delight or Baklava, then this is the place where the shops and stalls look amazing and have some perfect sweet and sticky gifts for friends and family back home.

Where To Stay

The two main areas close to the sights are Sultanahmet and across the river in Beyoğlu. We stayed in the old city, Sultanahmet. Home to the Hagia Sofia, Topkapi Palace, Blue Mosque, Basilica Cistern, Grand Bazaar & Spice Market.

We chose to stay at the Hagia Sofia Mansions, converted historical mansions, between the Hagia Sofia and Topkapi Palace, which was just beautiful! A duplex room, with fabulous Ottoman decor and the call to prayer as a morning wake-up call! The hotel is also home to a beautiful underground spa/hammam and the Sarnic restaurant, both of which are built within a 1,500-year-old cistern. Service throughout our stay was wonderfully friendly. Highly recommended!

Across the river in Beyoğlu close to Taksim Sq, Galata Tower, Istakil Street puts you in the heart of the sights and lots of bars, restaurants and shopping.

There are also some lovely areas further down the river in Besiktas and Ortaköy with a laid-back riverside café vibe and fancy hotels which I’d love to visit next time along with the beautiful areas on the Asian side of the city. 72 hours in Istanbul is simply not long enough!

Food & Drink

Kebaps of every kind, everywhere (or Kebabs to us)! Perfectly acceptable as a lunch or dinner and not just limited to a shameful 2 am after a skin full. The husband was in heaven! And if you enjoy a little entertainment with your dinner, try a traditional Testi Kebap, slow-cooked in a clay pot and hammered open over naked flames in front of you.

We also loved the Gozleme – flatbreads filled with spinach and cheese or beef, skilfully made in their 100s on a giant hot plate.

Fresh fish is abundant due to the Bosphorus and there are a wealth of fish restaurants on the Galata Bridge. Very touristy but worth a visit, even just to sit and marvel at the skill of the many ferries docking nearby and to watch the fisherman above you cast their lines and catch a bluefish or sardine!

We visited the Grand Bazaar’s branch of Nusr-Et, owned by the famous ‘Salt Bae’ (Google him if you’ve never heard). Expensive, but a great steak… and their bathrooms had the most bizarre electronic rotating toilet seat covers taking COVID precautions to a new level!

Istanbul also has some fabulous rooftop terraces. A perfect place to watch the sun go down whilst enjoying a cocktail or dinner. Loti Café and Roof Lounge hit the spot for us!

And who can decline a Turkish coffee for an instant boost (not to be drunk to the bottom) or Turkish tea for less than 50p a glass?

Getting Around

The traffic is wild in Istanbul, as we discovered on the way in a taxi from the airport. However, their tram system is amazing and so quick and cheap to travel around! Purchase an Istanbul Kart for 6TL (60p) at the many machines and every journey you make is 3.50TL (35p)! The Istanbul Kart can also be used on the Metro, funicular and ferries!

Saying that it’s so easy to walk around the city, as long as you don’t mind a few hills!

Turkey During Covid 19

At the time of travelling and writing this, Turkey is on the travel corridor list and seems to be keeping Covid rates fairly low. Masks are compulsory everywhere other than when you are seated to eat and drink, even outside in the street or a park. It honestly wasn’t a problem for us, even in 30-degree heat! Temperature checks are in place at most attractions, bars and restaurants and plenty of sanitiser and hand wipes everywhere. During our 72 hours in Istanbul, we felt very safe and they are pretty strict.

The city was quiet but by no means dead, but we didn’t face queues for any of the attractions. The only downside is that a lot of the attractions are taking this quieter period to refurbish or renovate. The Hagia Sofia, Blu Mosque and Basilica Cistern all had ongoing work and the Galata Tower was completely closed… it didn’t take our enjoyment away, but it does mean that you can’t get that perfect photo as there’s a bit of scaffolding in the way of your perfect shot!

Contact Information

I’ve worked in the travel industry since 1996 in various guises, which of course gave me a career highlight of meeting and getting to know Rupert, your host of this fabulous website!

I see travel as an escape and to experience a different world. A chance to see how other cultures live. To view both the world’s most famous sights and hidden gems. Getting to the heart of a destination or off the beaten track. And of course, some sunnier climates and fabulous cuisine along the way!

Big thanks to Lorna Willis Edwards for the blog about her 72 hours in Istanbul, Turkey. She has a wonderful Instagram page showcasing not least her excellent photography skills.

Lorna is keen to encourage readers of this article who are considering a trip to contact their local travel agent for availability and prices.

The Magnificent Private Villas of Croatia

By
Rupert Diggins
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Private Villas of Croatia
Private Villas of Croatia
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Private Villas Of Croatia

For those of you who have read my review of Croatia, you will be aware that the country is one of my favourite places in the world partly because of my many years working and promoting this Adriatic gem but also because it is a destination that I believe delivers on every level. Over the years I have spent many a day waxing lyrical about the attractions of resorts, islands, hotels, apartments, the people, the culture and the gorgeous scenery however I have rarely ever spoken about the luxury private villas of Croatia.

I was therefore delighted to be in contact recently with the specialist company “Private Villas of Croatia” which comes with a glowing reference in that they won the prestigious 2020 Luxury Lifestyle Award for Best “Villa Rental and Accommodation Service Agency”.

Whilst they offer a wide range of sensational properties I was drawn by this particular villa just for its sheer quality, luxury and of course, as you can enjoy pretty much everywhere in Croatia – those views!

At a time when many of us will be seeking seclusion and space this is a perfect villa!

Orasac

Orasac in Croatia, Europe is a 10th-century village overlooking the Bay of Zaton and just 15 minutes north of Dubrovnik in southern Dalmatia. If you are looking for a peaceful, small, traditional Croatian village then Orasac is ideal. There are plenty of narrow, meandering streets. mini markets for supplies and charismatic restaurants serving fresh local produce harvested from the local family farms nearby.

Many of these farms open their doors to visitors so Orasac has also become known for its agro-tourism. It is well worth taking a trip to one of the area’s Konoba’s or taverns to sample some delicious food and wine. Close by is the Trsteno Arboretum and Cove where you can relax in well-maintained gardens or visit the secret harbour. Trsteno also played host to some filming for the cult series “Game of Thrones”.

At the nearby Hawaii Beach, you can spend the day sun worshipping or in the evening enjoying a sundowner at the pretty little harbourside restaurants with amazing views across the Elaphite islands!

A short drive up the coast from Orasac and you will come to the unspoilt bay of Zali. The Veliki Zali beach is a local favourite with crystal clear waters and a relaxed ambience. The same can be said for Brsecine Bay also nearby.

The Villa Queen Frida, Orasac

The Villa Queen Frida Orasac is a newly built private villa located among ancient olive groves and vineyards and just 30 minutes from Dubrovnik airport. The views of the Adriatic Sea and islands are just magnificent and all set within complete privacy and wonderful natural surroundings. The beach and restaurants are just 1 km away with shops 4 km away from the property.

Throughout this exquisite villa, you will find the traditional stone and modern glass surfaces all of which blend in perfectly with the Mediterranean surroundings.

Villa Queen Frida Orasac Croatia

Accommodation

The Villa Queen Frida Orasac is spread over two floors and features four luxuriously furnished bedrooms with en suite bathrooms on the first floor offering accommodation for 8 guests. Bedrooms are equipped with luxurious linens, a flat-screen TV and a balcony overlooking the sea.

There are also two additional toilets, a fully equipped modern kitchen, an open-plan contemporary living and dining area with a direct exit to the terrace and magnificent views of the sea.

Facilities & Spaces

The spacious terrace includes a large infinity heated swimming pool with sunbeds, an outdoor shower and an alfresco dining area with a barbecue. This terrace is the perfect spot to spend your peaceful, hot summer days while enjoying a cocktail and soaking up the sun.

To add a little more sprinkling of quality let’s also throw in a Finnish sauna and Jacuzzi.

Villa Queen Frida Orasac is in the most magical of locations and the ideal private villa for a group of friends or a family holiday.

Private Villas Of Croatia Contact

Private Villas of Croatia is a holiday villa rental agency specialising in providing various services within luxury tourism.

These amazing properties can be booked through your preferred Croatia travel agent or tour operator or by contacting them directly at the following details.

Check out the links to their social media platforms and prepare to be wowed.

T: +385 98 659 496
E: booking@privatevillasofcroatia.com
W: www.privatevillasofcroatia.com

Azores

By
Rupert Diggins
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Azores Travel Blog
Azores Travel Blog
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Introducing The Azores

The islands of the Azores that are part of Portugal were created centuries ago from volcanic activity. As a result, we are now left with stunning scenery and lush green landscapes that just beg to be explored.

The archipelago was actually discovered by Portuguese navigators in the 15th century with visitors including both Vasco de Gama and Christopher Columbus.

All of the island’s beaches are not conducive to sunbathing however the beach at the Hotel Bahia Palace on Sao Miguel island is excellent. As a result, beach combing and beach walking are very popular as here you can relax and enjoy the natural scenery.

At the heart of Azores tourism is the ability to go whale watching. Today there are many companies offering opportunities to head out onto the Atlantic seas and witness for yourself some of the largest mammals on the planet.

Food and wine are excellent with a rich variety of organic produce grown locally on the island. These include spicy sausages, pork kebabs, and delicious soups which are served in most establishments. Vegetarians are well catered for and there is a terrific choice of cheeses!

The wine is produced locally in the many vineyards dotted around the islands with the most famous being the Pico Verdelho which is excellent.

Key Information

Continent Europe
CapitalPonta Delgada
CurrencyEuro
LanguagePortuguese
VisaFCO Advice
VaccinationsVaccination Advice
Tourist OfficeVisit Azores

Weather

Temperatures are considered to be generally quite mild on the Azores islands with figures ranging from 15 to 28°C.

The best time to visit the Azores is from June to September with the hottest month of the year being August so great for school holidays.

The Azores are very green islands caused mainly by the rainy season which runs from October to March. There is a chance of heavy storms between August and November.

For an up-to-date weather forecast check out Sunheron which provides an excellent range of weather-related information including long-range forecasts as well as current conditions.

Getting Around

Travel between the islands can be by boat or the more popular inter-island air service which runs like an efficient bus service. Naturally, both are subject to weather conditions so it’s best to coordinate your trip through a travel agent or specialist tour operator. They will ensure that should there be issues then alternative arrangements can be made.

The best way to see the Azores is on foot. There are some magnificent walking trails and routes on each of the islands. For detailed information check out these Azores Walking Guides.

Top Things To See & Do

Sao Miguel – 67km X 16km
The largest and most populated island on the Azores is known for its beautiful botanical gardens, agriculture, and vineyards. With its green hills, thermal springs, waterfalls, lakes lagoons, forests, and villages it makes for an idyllic holiday. Sao Miguel is also a popular starting point for island hopping.

Terceira – 29km X 17km
The main town of Angra do Heroismo is your picture postcard location with traditional houses and pretty cobbled streets. Back in 1983, the island was declared a World Heritage site by UNESCO.

Faial – 14km X 13km
Dominated by a volcano Faial is known as the blue island because of the abundance of hydrangeas in the summer months. There is the small port of Horta which has some hotels and Peters Cafe is popular with the sailing fraternity.

Pico – 42km X 15km
Dominated by the snow-capped volcano, Mount Pico is the highest mountain in Portugal. The area is great for hiking and is also the main base for those heading out to watch whales. In 2004 the landscape of Pico Island Vineyard Culture was named a World Heritage site by UNESCO.

Sao Jorge – 56km X 8km
The rocky island of Sao Jorge is a long narrow craggy mountainous island formed from volcanic eruptions.

Santa Maria – 17km X 9km
Santa Maria has the longest history in the Azores. The main town is Vila do Porto and is set dramatically above its harbour. There are also great walking and nature reserves to enjoy.

Flores – 17km X 12km
Flores is known as a garden island due to the abundance of hydrangeas. As well as this there are green pastures, lakes, waterfalls, stunning views, and settlements dating back to the 15th century.

Graciosa – 12km X 8km
A flat peaceful island that is reached on a 1/5 hour ferry from Sao Jorge or by air in 20 minutes from Terceira.

Corvo – 6km X 4km
The smallest and the most remote island of the Azores with just one settlement and a spectacular deep volcanic crater.

Pre-Bookable Excursions in The Azores

More Information

Visit Azores provides a wide choice of useful information including places to go, things to do and what you can expect from the weather.

Whale Watching in the Azores

By
Rupert Diggins
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Whale Watching in the Azores
Whale Watching in the Azores
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Whale Watching In The Azores

As with all the countries that we aspire to tick off the bucket list there are also mammals that live amongst us on this planet that I would love to witness in my lifetime. One of those is the largest of them all – the Blue Whale. I always thought growing up that I would have to be whale-watching miles from land and deep in the heart of one of the world’s great oceans to see this incredible animal but actually, it’s a lot closer and easier than you might think.

The seas around the Azores are some of the very best locations to observe ocean wildlife including in spring, the Blue Whale. To do so, however, it is always best to take guidance from the experts. The AITO (Association of Independent Tour Operators) specialist Archipelago Choice features a range of really fantastic niche destinations and also provides just such expertise with their dedicated whale-watching tours that include a four-day whale and dolphin watching trip, a marine biologist and whaling history lesson as well as a full day guided tour of the main capital San Miguel.

Here is what they have to say about a destination and an experience that I know I would never forget and I bet you wouldn’t too

The First Choice For The Azores

Over the past three decades, the Azores islands have transformed into Europe’s leading whale-watching destination.

Most of us are familiar with the Azores by name but locating them on a map is often a little trickier. These unique islands lie 1500km off the coast of Portugal; nine wonderfully diverse, unspoiled landscapes which form the most-westerly outpost of Europe.

From the first settlers arriving in the 15th Century, these rural island communities have strived to strike a difficult balance between sustainable island living whilst taming a wild and volcanic landscape. The islands’ calderas, crater lakes, lava caves and geothermal pools have long been an attraction for Europeans looking to escape the busy mainland.  And as you’d expect, the Atlantic Ocean has always loomed large in the Azores’ psyche.

Whale Watching, Nature, The Azores

Whale Watching Tourism

The seas around the Azores are one of the best places to observe cetaceans and ocean wildlife: resident species of bottlenose dolphins, north-Atlantic spotted dolphins, sperm whales, loggerhead turtles, blue sharks, storm petrels, and Cory’s shearwaters can be seen throughout the year. For whale and dolphin watchers, peak season begins in March and runs right through to the end of October., and the highlight for many is in April when the larger migratory species are passing through the big blue whales and fin whales heading north for the summer.

Whale tourism has become a crucial part of the islands’ economy. Whale watching helps to support cetacean studies and conservation via MONICET: a voluntary research organization that collates the sightings data from whale-watching crews across the whole of the Azores. This data provides a year-on-year record of the lives of the resident whales and dolphins, and whale tourism plays a vital role in supporting their continuing research.

Azores Attractions

Of the nine islands, Sao Miguel, Faial and Pico are three of our favourites for whale watching. Being the largest island, Sao Miguel has the most to see and do when you’re not at sea – particularly if you love keeping active and enjoy kayaking, diving, hiking, and biking.

The Furnas Valley in the east has over thirty geysers and mineral-rich springs and is home to the Azores’ most famous geothermal swimming pools. To the west is the island’s largest caldera Sete Cidades – a must-see destination for most visitors to the islands for its extraordinary beauty.

History To Discover

The small and unassuming island of Faial is also one of our favourite whale-watching locations. Faial holds a surprisingly significant place in European history. Its natural harbour was a popular resupply point for Portuguese sailing fleets in the 16th & 17th Centuries – and 20th Century seaplanes making the first trans-Atlantic crossings in the 1930s.

The 19th Century saw the island’s capital Horta become the H.Q. for the large telegraph companies whose new technologies were connecting the old world with the new – their under-sea telegraph cables which stretched from the UK and Germany to the USA and Canada all connected in mid-Atlantic Faial. In World War II, H.Q. Horta and its telegraph network became a vital communications hub connecting the D-Day landing beaches to the US during the battle of Normandy in 1944.

Volcanic Landscapes

Faial is also home to one of the most striking volcanic landscapes in the Azores at Capelinhos – the site of a major volcanic eruption from September 1957 to October 1958.

Over 2km² of land was created – however more than 300 homes were also destroyed, and the eruption led to the emigration of 4000 residents (mainly to North America).

A Sustainable Future

The neighbouring island of Pico is where Azorean whale watching all began; in the imposing shadow of Mount Pico, Portugal’s highest peak at 2,351m.

Serge Viallelle emigrated to the island from his native France when whale hunting ended in the 1980s. Settling in Lajes on Pico’s south coast, he saw a new future for the island’s whale spotters – by combining their skills and experience with his passion for marine conservation, he demonstrated that whale tourism was the sustainable way forward. Sadly, Serge passed away at the end of 2019 but his legacy lives on – not only in Pico, but across the whole of the Azores.

Contact Information

Archipelago Choice – have been exploring the world for over 20 years, creating ATOL-protected imaginative, tailor-made holidays for people who love to travel.

If you’d like to learn more about whale watching in the Azores, contact Paul from Archipelago Choice as follows:

T: 01768 775672
E: paul@archipelagochoice.com  
W: www.archipelagochoice.com

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