Exploring the Atlantic’s Best Kept Secret: The Azores
Written by: Michelle on October 09, 2018
Sometimes called “The Atlantic’s Best Kept Secret,” the Azores are quickly becoming a must-visit destination for many clients and travel agents alike. What makes it such a wonderful secret? This past August, KHM Travel Group agents and two team members got to find out on two FAM trips to the islands, hosted by InovTravel.
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Our agents, along with Madison Isom from our Operations Team and Sara Rawlings, from our Marketing Team, visited the islands of Terceira and São Miguel. The group spent three nights in Terceira with accommodations at the Angra Marina Hotel. In São Miguel, they spent two nights at the Grand Hotel Açores Atlântico. They were also able to tour Terceira Mar Hotel, Azor Hotel, and Pousada de São Sebastião. A pousada is a historical structure that is repurposed into lodging, such as forts, school buildings, or churches, adding a layer of historical interest to a stay at one of these properties.
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There’s so much to explore and take in on these islands. The plants and animals that thrive here were all brought to the islands by those who have inhabited them. This creates a unique blend of life unlike anywhere else in the world.
The dramatic landscape of the islands, which draws many hikers and nature-lovers, can be attributed to their volcanic origins. The hills and mountains of these once-volcanic islands invite guests to connect with nature on a hike and reward those who reach the summit with breathtaking views of the lava stone patchwork landscape. Or, adventurers can descend into Algar do Carvao, a once-volcanic cave that today is home to some of the world’s largest silica stalactites.
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After a day of climbing hills, our agents learned that a dip in one of the islands’ mineral hot springs is just the thing to relax. Throughout the islands, waterfalls, natural springs, and teal blue lakes add vibrant colors and plenty of opportunities to enjoy boating, kayaking, and swimming. Agents took to the seas for whale watching and caught glimpses of several sperm whales and dolphins. A local marine biologist educated them about the scientific tracking efforts that are underway to help understand the whales’ daily habits and preserve these incredible creatures.
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The culture and food was the icing on the cake for many of our agents. A local cheese factory and vineyard supplied some of the fare, while fresh seafood and still-warm bread were also among their favorites. They even had the unique opportunity to try food cooked by the heat of a volcano.
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Our agents also participated in an educational session that covered how to qualify their clients properly for a trip to the Azores.
Sara noted,
“Make sure to qualify your client first and foremost. The Azores isn’t for everyone, but for those who want adventure and love the outdoors, and also for those that want to experience Europe, this is a world-class location. It’s a great stop-over for those who want to have an island feel before going into the Europe mainland. It’s a very affordable destination right now.”
Madison also had a few tips for those agents or clients that plan to visit the Azores.
“Go to the top of the hills and mountains; the views are amazing. Try as much of the food as you can and take a good camera.”
View more stunning scenes from our trips to the Azores in our Flickr album!
If you are passionate about sharing incredible destinations like the Azores, becoming a travel agent may be the right path for you. KHM Travel Group provides our agents with online educational tools, resources, and travel industry connections to help launch and grow their travel businesses. For more information on becoming a travel agent, complete the form to the right or give us a call at 1.888.611.1220.