I don't see any travel forums or tips on The Azores

Any post regarding the Açores does belong in the Portugal forum. Not many travellers going there, I guess... Just as there's not much available about Madeira either.

You are correct about the lack of information regarding the Azores and Madeira...I wish they were both highlighted, especially my favorite, the Azores! I have visited the Azores 7 times and if there is anything you would like to know, then hopefully I can point you in the right direction, especially the islands of Santa Maria and Sao Miguel. I visited Madeira once, but researched it a lot and have some good info from there as well.

The Azores are very much undiscovered by Americans but are EXTREMELY popular with European tourists. The islands are beautiful, authentic, economical for tourism, rich in culture and history, and very peaceful. Think Hawaii...but really, really better! I am sure that if and eventually when the secrets of these islands "get out", then more Americans (and non-Europeans?) will be there in droves. They are quite easy to get to from the United States, and each island is different and unique. There is lots of good information available on the internet.

Hope I can help, or perhaps any other proud Azorean can give their input as well!

Thank you both carl & diane for your replies! I'm disappointed - I actually just received Rick Steves Portugal book and realized - there is no mention of The Azores or Medeira. "Ooops"! Anyway - yes, I would love more info as I'm planning a trip there for early October and struggling with itinerary choices. Carl I will see if I can message you privately - thank you!

I'm traveling to Azores and mainland Portugal for 3 weeks this June with my wife. I'm wondering how experienced travelers would split up their time in each region.

Leslie: Have you tried just googling "Azores Tourism" ?

I've actually found some good information on the tripadvisor.com forums. There are some good websites, yes - so I am making good progress with information. I always go to Rick Steves' first though :) (so I was just surprised there is nothing yet).

I hope someone will add some specific answers on this thread! My husband's grandfather came from the Azores and we've always wanted to go! Carl, will we have trouble language-wise? I speak some Spanish, but no Portuguese. Recommended cities? Interesting things to see?

Donna,
Almost everyone under the age of 60 speaks English, as well as one or two other languages besides Portuguese! The younger generation learn English starting at 5 years old. Anyone in the tourist business will speak English, although some may be limited, such as taxi drivers. Most Azoreans have relatives here in the United States and have lived here as well before deciding to return back to either retire or get back to their roots. I replied to finianshea a while back with some in-depth info for the Azores , I will add it as a post. Send me a PM if you have any specific questions about the Azores and I hope I can assist. You will not regret visiting your heritage and a true "gem" of a European destination!