Ponta Delgada

Naturalists will marvel at Crater Lakes and the Botanical Gardens. You´ll even get to tour a working greenhouse and learn about the cultivation of pineapples.

Attractions

The historic center is worth exploring. The most obvious attraction is the architecture. Buildings of stark white walls are enhanced by black volcanic stone that decorate corners, doors and windows. Some of the most prominent buildings include the Town Hall, Carlos Machado Museum, Santa Catarina Palace, Fort Sao Bras and the Parish Church of Sao Sebastiao.

Shopping

The use of local materials and old patterns characterizes the handicrafts of Sao Miguel. Scrimshaw, wicker products, lace, embroideries and liqueurs make popular souvenirs. Main shopping areas include the Sol Mar Shopping Center, the Ponta Delgada Center and the Casa Regional Ilha Verde, specializing in island souvenirs.

Food

Traditional recipes are still used to prepare succulent dishes such as octopus stewed in local wine, fish stews, limpets with rice and trout stew. Shellfish lovers will be delighted to find a selection of lobster, crabs and the strange goose barnacles, which are collected from holes in the rocks. Liqueurs made from passion fruit and pineapples are popular to round out a meal.

Currency

The Euro (€), the currency of the European Union, is the official currency of the Ponta Delgada.

Cruise Lines	Dec	2009 Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov
Azamara Cruises
Carnival
Celebrity
Crystal
Cunard
Holland America
MSC Italian
Norwegian Cruise Line
Princess
Royal Caribbean
SeaDream Yacht Club
Silversea
Star Clippers

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