The closest point to Europe from the US: The Azores, which are becoming a desirable destination for visitors not only from Boston, where they are four hours away by air, but also from others parts of the Americas.
Some recent accolades:
• The National Geographic Center for Sustainable Destinations named the Azores as the world’s second most appealing islands destination.
* “One of 10 Best Values,” according to USA Today.
* One of the “Top 10 Places for Whale Watching,” says Sherman’s Travel.
* Also, one of the “Top 10 Islands You Never Heard Of,” says Budget Travel.
* Two World Heritage Sites, designated by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO).
“The top five things or so things to do there include whale watching, hiking volcanic landscapes, swimming with dolphins (diving and scuba), mountain and cliff climbing, and trying the local tea,” says a spokesperson for the area.
The Azores’ year-round mild climate gives the islands a fresh, spring like quality year-round, tourism officials say.
While tourism was down last year, American numbers of visitors are on the upswing, according to tourism officials.
The islands are located about midway between Boston and mainland Portugal. They are an autonomous region of Portugal.
By David Wilkening
