Go, Go, Go!

GETTING THERE

Flights were roughly R17 000R20 000 via Dubai to Lisbon and then to the Azores. You can also fly via other European hubs such as London and Frankfurt. Contact an agent at Flight Centre (flightcentre.co.za) for deals. WHEN TO GO

For surfers, the best time to visit is during the northern hemisphere winter, when huge swells roll up. Spring and autumn are the best bet for the traveller/surfer looking for the best of both worlds.

IS IT DANGEROUS?

The Azores were born to be mild! There is little to fear in terms of snakes, thorns or gnarly diseases. Rocky shorelines and volcanic rocks can be hard on unprotected feet. The main place to take caution is while driving on the single-lane, country roads. GETTING AROUND

Although there is a Europeanstyle bus system, you’ll want a rental car. There are several hire companies to choose from and rates are reasonable. For trips to other islands in the archipelago, there are (slow) ferries, but it’s best to fly.

IS IT EXPENSIVE? Accommodation cost us around R300 per night at the Azores Surf Centre Surf House in a comfortable four-bed, shared room (R750 double). A beer costs R25, an espresso R20 — always ask for a piece of cinnamon to stir it with — and a decent dinner is around R120.