What to See in Ponta Delgada, Ponta Delgada, Portugal (B)

Azores, the Portuguese Archipelago, although being so unique and attractive, receives only a a fraction of the hordes of tourists heading to the other parts of Macaronesia: Canaries or Madeira. Those who make it here, come mainly for hot springs and the unspoiled nature. But the towns are also truly worth mentioning. Ponta Delgada - the capital of the Azores is one of the most beautiful towns I've seen. You can clearly feel the Portuguese touch expressed in the architectural style and narrow streets, however Ponta Delgada has its own, distinctive appearance: whitewashed buildings are decorated with black volcanic basalt rock around the corners and window edges which creates a beautiful, unique design throughout the city.

It's not difficult to get to Azores anymore. Budget airlines fly to Ponta Delgada from several European cities but I guess you can get the best deals flying from Lisbon. It won't break your bank. Ponta Delgada will be your first destination in the archipelago. A good thing about Azores is that you can visit it in the most gloomy winter months of the year and still enjoy. We went there in late November and, although it wasn't too warm, it was absolutely amazing - especially being able to admire beautiful Christmas decorations! Even if you have just a few days, while visiting Portugal, it is so worth it to travel to Azores, at least for a long weekend! ...... (follow the instructions below for accessing the rest of this article).