Pighuntah's Travel

Pighuntah has just returned from a relaxing holiday in Azores, Portugal (5 hours from Boston) and we have found a deal for you!

Always preferring to stay in an apartment rather than a hotel for more flexibility, we stayed at a charming (and reasonable) "apartamento" (apartment).  Located in the peaceful town of Faja de Baixo, Casa do Largo, is only three minutes away from the city center of Sao Miguel, Ponta Delgada.

There is a full kitchen equipped with a refrigerator,  gas stove, microwave oven, coffee maker and all the eating utensils, pots and pans, towels and dishes.

The living room has a couch (which a child could sleep on, if necessary), TV with more than a dozen cable chanels, several in English (BBC  and CNN  being the two most popular).  We watched CSI Miami, Conan and Larry King Live.

The apartment consists of a spacious bedroom with two twin beds that can be put together for a king-size bed.  The mattress is nice and firm. (a blessing to those with bad backs).  We had some of the best sleep here in this peaceful location.

The best part, however, is the great service the apartment owner will provide you.  There is nothing like getting invaluable information first-hand from a "local."  He can provide recommendations for restaurants, shopping, etc.  He can tell you where the locals go.  He will tell you where's the best place to buy sweet Azorean pineapple.  He insists on meeting and greeting his guests upon arrival at  the airport.  And he will personally bid you a "bon voyage" at the airport when your Azorean holiday comes to an end.

He also offers his clients a special discounted car rental rate through a reputable local car rental agency.

There is a private gated courtyard in the front with an outdoor stone BBQ for your use, if desired.  And there is a patio set in the courtyard if you want to eat meals outdoors in the cool air.

All eating utensils, towels, and linens are provided.  Also included for your use is a full size ironing board, iron and hair dryer.  Need anything else?  Just ask. 

The best travel experiences are when you mingle with the locals and experience the local living.  This is a great opportunity to experience the Azorean way of life. 

Rates as of June 2008 are 40 Euro's (US $61) per night for low season (October 1 - April 30) and 48 Euro's (US $73) per night for high season (May 1 - September 30).  The owner discounts on stays of more than 7 nights.  This is a much more economical option than a hotel (95 euro's and above --- US $146+).  It's so much fun buying your groceries at the local open market and bringing them home to "your apartment."

The owner speaks excellent English.  Please contact the owner, Joao, at joao.vasconcelos@anacom.pt, casadolargo@yahoo.com or joao.vasconcelos@iol.pt.  It's best to send your inquiry to all three email addresses because Azorean email sometimes has problems.

Pack your bags and check out this gem.