Azores. A natural charm in the middle of the
Atlantic, half way between Europe and North America, consisting of nine
islands forming a genuine natural beauty paradise. Lush vegetation
contrasts with the soil of volcanic origin of craters and geysers. The
climate is mild with the temperature varying between 14 and 22 degree
Celcius.
The tranquility of the archipelago is the major attraction. Angra do
Heroismo has been classified as world heritage and the remaining cities
also have a special charm. This the place to escape to and avoid the
hustle of modern life.
The islands of the Azores
are spread 650 km (400 miles) apart and
fall into three distinct groups. In the east lie Santa Maria and São
Miguel, the largest island and home to the regional capital, Ponta Delgada.
The main towns in the central group of five islands are Horta on Faial, a
popular stopover port for boats crossing the Atlantic and Angra do Heroísmo
on Terceira, a busy cosmopolitan city. From here visitors can travel to
the other islands of Sao Jorge, Graciosa and Pico, the last dominated by
a towering volcanic peak 2,350 m (7,700 ft) high. Farther west lie the
remote, weather'beaten islands of Flores and Corvo.
For more information on the
Azores Islands please visit www.azores.com
 Madeira
is a small archipelago of volcanic origin, in the middle of
the Atlantic. The weather is mild and the temperatures are very pleasant
throughout the year. The landscape is luxuriant, irrigated by cascading
streams, while mountain peaks seem to rise abruptly from the ocean.
The abundance of flowers has lent the island the name "Floating
Garden", inviting one to be in full contact with nature. The island
is a tourism paradise with first class facilities, mainly in Funchal, a
busy nightlife and excellent conditions for all type of sports. Nearby,
the island of Porto Santo has a vast and inviting sandy beach, ideal for
those who love the sun and fishing.
Funchal is the island capital and the only town of any size. This is where
most of the museums and historic buildings are to be found, as well the
best hotels, restaurants and shops. Most of Madeira's agricultural crops
are grown along the sunny, prosperous south coast. The cooler, wetter
north side has fewer settlements and more cattle. Many parts of the
mountainous and volcanic interior remain wild, and some are accessible
only on foot. Pico Ruivo, the highest peak on the island, is a favorite
destination for walkers.
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