Discovery

The Azores: Sete Cidades by Cynthia Catera

Sete Cidades might just be one of the most magical places on Earth. With its hydrangea-lined roads, rolling hills, and cattle grazing peacefully along the horizon, it’s a place where you can breathe a little easier-move a little slower-take it all-and repeat as many times needed. We were lucky enough to see a stunning rainbow as we were driving through the hilly valley on our way back into town (after I had gotten sick for 2 hours on the whale and dolphin tour). We made friends with Tiger Lilly and her 4 kittens atop of the mountain, visiting her daily with food and water and soaking in the sunset views with our 1 euro bottle of wine. Our view from the casa in the AM was equally as stunning, watching the clouds float on by while encompassed in white linens. We came across an abandoned hotel, all in concrete with its exoskeleton still in tacked-nature reclaiming it for its own with overgrown branches and moss-still water sitting in crevasses, voices echoing within and its body badly tatted with graffiti. Like a zombie apocalypse, it was left to fend for itself.   

The Drive to Furnas by Cynthia Catera

Driving from Sete Cidades, we decided to take the longer, more scenic route on the north side of the island- stopping at breath-taking overlooks. Along the way, we found natural swimming pools which we took a break for a little dip. We also saw an old-school windmill which still works and is launched once a year. We also got to see a crochet wrapped and ate at an interesting place which served us a "hamburger," since that was the only thing we knew how to order;)

Sunset Sailing by Cynthia Catera

It’s great taking a different perspective on the city you love, and doing so on a private chartered sail boat will make it even better. So for a little birthday surprise, we took off on a beautiful sunset sail, taking in all the sights we love. And so grateful for our Captain, Eric Puleio of Narwhal Yacht Charters for making us feel at home on his boat! =) The night proved to be one the most incredible sunsets I’ve ever laid eyes on (even Eric said you know it’s a good one when the Captain is taking photos!) We sailed past Lady Liberty and watched the painted sky shift and morph as the seconds expanded. Truly spectacular and one of my favorite moments to this day!!!