31. The Azores, Portugal - Jennie's Family Adventure to "Europe's Hawaii" with Yellowstone Vibes

In this episode of Trip Tales, host Kelsey Graves interviews Jennie about her family of 4's unforgettable summer adventure to The Azores islands off the coast of Portugal. With kids ages 5 and 10, they spent their time exploring the breathtaking São Miguel Island, and Jennie was blown away by the island’s stunning beauty— from blue hydrangeas and steep cliffs to ocean overlooks, volcanic rock, and natural hot springs.

Jennie describes their trip as the perfect mix of adventure and natural beauty, saying, “Imagine Hawaii, in Europe, with some Yellowstone mixed in,” and that’s exactly what they found in The Azores.

Mentioned in this episode:
- Main island Sao Miguel
- Ponta Delgada Airport & the Hungry Whales Walking Food Tour
- SIXT rental cars
- Moon Series Azores Book and DK Top Ten Azores Guide
- Using ChatGPT to plan a trip itinerary
- Vila Franca do Campo: TERRA AZUL Whale & Dolphin Watching Excursion, AirBNB
- Caloura: Swimming pool, Bar da Caloura for fresh catch of the day seafood
- Furnas: Looks like Yellowstone! Lake Furnas, geothermal activity, active volcanic sites, boiling caldeiras, Grena Park: hiking & zipline park, Village of Furnas, Terra Nostra Botanical Garden, Pocas de Dona Beija natural hot springs
- Nordeste: More remote, giant cliffs, ocean overlooks, gardens, flowers, black sand beach, Amazing AirBNB with infinity pool that overlooks ocean.
- Povoacao: playground, mini golf, pool, snack bar, surf spot
- Ribeira Grande: Cha Gorreana Tea Factory, Tuka Tula Beach Bar: restaurant overlooking ocean
- Praia dos Moinhos: most beautiful beach with flower covered cliffs
- Sete Cidades: Volcanic lake, kayaking, sunset in Moisteros, Ponta da Ferraria thermal baths, great meal at Saca-Rolhas Taverna

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