The Azores is a magnificent group of islands in the Atlantic Ocean. They lie around 900 kilometres from Portugal and altogether make up an archipelago of nine islands. They are the furthest islands in the European Union and it will take you 2 hours flying time from Lisbon. There are also flights and ferry services between the islands, however these can fall off schedule due to weather conditions. Since they are situated in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean these islands have become a strategic refuelling stop for all commercial ships and cruise liners. They are also becoming popular for the wine making and deep sea fishing. The whole chain of islands is becoming increasingly popular with the tourists.

Due to its strategic location there are many exciting activities to do here such as whale watching, swimming with the dolphins, snorkelling and scuba diving. These islands are also famous for many festivals which normally are held during the summer months some of which are religious. One of the most famous ones, and most famous with the tourists is the Tourada-a-corda which translates Bullfights on a rope. These are mainly held in Terceira but other islands sometimes also perform these fights. No bulls are actually killed in these fights except for maybe an overly courageous human being. There are many laws and procedures to protect the bull and no bull is allowed to fight for more then 30 minutes.

The nine islands that make up this archipelago are: Corvo, Faial, Flores, Graciosa, Pico, Santa Maria, Sao Jorge, Sao Miguel and Terceira.