Graciosa is also classified by UNESCO as a Biosphere Reserve. The World Network of Biosphere Reserves fosters the harmonious integration of people and nature for sustainable development through participatory dialogue, knowledge sharing, human well-being improvements, as well as a respect for cultural values and society’s ability to cope with change. Read more →

The Azores were named one of the top 10 sites in the world for finding whales in their natural habitat. Whale watching here involves in the Azores is a radical sport. Here it means a trip out to sea in a small, semi-inflatable motorboat traveling at high speeds. There’s definitely a thrill to this chase. It's not for the feint of heart. An experienced guide steers the boat to where on-shore spotters, in search of the largest mammals on the planet. Perhaps that’s why the islands were named one of the top ten sites on the planet for finding the marine giants Read more →