We arrived early this morning in Ponta Delgada on Sao Miguel in the Azores. Since our last visit, a new terminal has been built so we docked right downtown. The island has done a beautiful job of it with a large terminal with shops and an easy walk to the rest of the city. This year we decided to stay in town since we had taken a tour last year. The island itself is very lush and green. They raise lots of cows here and most of the land is being used for something. The downtown is a bustling place with lots of shops. The streets are reminiscent of those in mainland Portuguese towns with lots of wrought iron work. After wandering around and visiting the beautiful old chirch, we went shopping in a grocery store. The Azores are the only producer of tea in Europe. Last year we had bought some Azorean tea and liked it so we bought a new supply. We also decided to buy a local cheese to try at home.
As we were walking along the waterfront several vans passed us with loudspeakers blaring and signs on the sides. Crowds of people would gather and cheer. A vendor on the street told us that the island is holding an election on next Sunday and these were candidates riding around campaigning. When we boarded the ship and looked ashore we saw a political rally taking place. Darn, we can’t get away from politics even here.
We sailed mid-afternoon and are on our way home. This evening we put a message in a bottle and launched it off the stern. Maybe in a few years we’ll get a reply.
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