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Friday, February 8, 2013

Tips on Visiting Saint Michael, Azores


Here are some helpful tips before traveling:
1. Research modes of transportation. The island is large. You can use cabs or rent a car (driving is scary - narrow roads, unfamiliar terrain). Not quite familiar with public transportation.
2. Organize a rough itinerary with details like directions, ways of getting to destinations and time
    needed for each entry on your list.
3. Research airfare for various months since flights' costs vary by hundred of dollars depending on month, day of the week or even day of the month.
4. Talk to people who've been there - they can give you firsthand insight so you can avoid misses while on your vacation.
5. Research attractions since many are seasonal (i.e. Santo Cristo feast, local feasts and festivals).
6. Research seasonalities to know what you're in for - mild winters are still marked with humid cold, springs can get quite rainy and cloudy and summers are very humid.
7. Know the key words in the language spoken. 
8. Make a list of all the essentials you'll need to bring (i.e. toiletries, money, passport, alarm clock, converters, etc.).
9. Pack a week in advance that way you're not scrambling and feeling you forgot something or rushing
    to do last-minute laundry because your favorite blouse is still in the wash.
10. Bring a pocket dictionary with you - wherever you go. It comes in handy since not everyone you encounter will speak English.
11. Buy your currency BEFORE the trip. I'll admit, I didn't research and track the currency rates but I knew I didn't want to try and find the kiosk and go through the lines when I got to Ponta Delgada after a red-eye flight. This avoids the hassle and prevents you from being at the mercy of high currency rates or fees.
12. Wear something comfy for the flight. You'll be better suited to sleep or relax with a movie. 
13. In your carry-on, bring a change of clothes, face wipes like Neutrogena's Pink Grapefruit oil-free cleansing wipes , "portable" toothbrush like Colgate Wisp, deodorant and anything you need to do a quick fresh-up.
14.  Also, carry on an eye mask. You never know when the bookworm or insomniac is seated next to you.
15. Before you book your flight, make sure your Passport is still and will be valid during your trip. If not, make sure you allow more than enough time for renewal.
16. Bring a travel alarm. The hotels may not always have them.
17. Always carry pain relievers, stomach remedies and anything else you might need with you - especially with new foods and differing time zones - headaches and stomach aches have no vacation, but you do.
18. Wear glasses? Bring them - even if it's only for distance. 
19. Bring warm and cold weather clothes regardless of season.
20. Bring your swimsuit even if you don't plan to use it - the mineral baths are 75-80ยบ F so it's a comfortable swim even if it's a little cool (except when you get out!).
21. Don't forget your camera - or its charger! I once went on vacation and had a fit after my battery
      died. Luckily, my brother brought his camera too.
22. Walking a lot, walking a little - either way, wear flats. Saint Michael has cobble stone streets, gardens with dirt paths - you'll want something casual and comfortable. Even if you think you'll be walking a short distance, you could get lost or change plans and will be glad you're feet aren't stopping you from keeping to your itinerary.
23. Be smart, be safe and have fun!

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