The Azores

Taste your way through the unique, natural flavors of Sao Miguel. This afternoon, stop at a local gin production facility, where traditional botanical ingredients like rosemary and juniper are blended with local, sustainably sourced seaweed. Drinks and bottles of gin sold here support marine conservation locally, through a donation to the Ocean Azores Foundation. Enjoy a light, farmhouse-style lunch on the beautiful grounds of the facility. Cap off this afternoon excursion with a visit to a pineapple plantation that is more than 100 years old. You’ll see the plantation and where the pineapples grow before getting the chance to sip on an expertly prepared pineapple cocktail.

This morning, see what lies on the western side of Terceira Island. Take in the beautiful coastal views along the way before visiting a banana plantation, where bright green banana leaves and blue skies meet. After, sipping on coffee and sampling some bananas or other seasonal fruits, you’ll visit a family-owned cheese factory. The family owns cows that roam freely with plenty of space and grass at a nearby farm, and many say the milk of these “happy cows” leads to a tastier cheese. After learning about the production process and the family history, gather for a light lunch of local products.

Indulge your taste buds and connect with Portuguese cuisine and culture at a home-hosted meal where local wines and petiscos, or Portuguese tapas, will be the start of a great night! Enjoy different wines, liquors and taste some of Portugal's and the Azores iconic foods. Portugal has been producing and exporting wine since the age of the ancient Romans – and it’s only gotten better with time! Relax at this local home and feel as if you are meeting an old friend!

By zodiac, venture out into the blue Atlantic and keep your eyes peeled for up to 25 species of whales. Learn about the culture of whales in the Azores from an expert biologist, detailing the social shift of whale treatment in the area. From whale hunting to whale watching, you’ll understand the cultural evolution that has led to respecting these peaceful animals in present day. Witness the majestic beasts surfacing for air, spraying water in clouds of mist. Sperm whales, pilot whales, and pods of dolphins frequent the Azorean waters. End your experience with lunch of local favorites.