Tag: travel

What does the privatisation of Açores Airlines (SATA) mean for the Azores?

by AzoresBPK

Azores Airlines (previously known as the SATA group) has been losing in the high tens of millions annually and will sell their controlling stake of the airline to private investors.

What could this mean for you, a normal person?

The up side and what to expect:

– The airline will more than likely become more efficient, and although many flight paths will be disrupted over the next 3 – 5 years, there is a chance of better connectivity in the future.

– Portuguese Tax Payers won’t have the ongoing burden (although they will cover this large debt as part of the deal).

– House price market decline on the Azores islands: With major flight disruptions and higher fare costs the Azores will see a drop in tourism, which, alongside the already falling profits generated from rental properties will further aid the rising disinterest in purchasing investment properties on the archipelago. (Specifically the remote areas of São Miguel, which analysts currently expect to be the first to see a noticeable decline in property prices)

The down side and what to expect:

– Mentioned already, the increase in costs of a private business will fall on the customer, so yes, we can expect to pay more for tickets in the near future.

– Private owners reduce or drop routes which are less profitable (that’s the Azores islands!). The only upside of lower connectivity is the fall of tourism and drop in house prices that will follow it.

– Loss of labour: Private companies often try to cut costs, that often means that some of the once secure jobs for the local population may be reduced.

– If it all goes wrong? Private companies are not supported by the taxpayers money, so if the company is badly managed and has to sell material assets, we could lose these connections altogether.

Finally, for us, as many people on the Azores view SATA as more of an Azorean institution than simply a company, selling to private investors is a risk they have been willing to take but we are tentatively watching to see if it pays off.

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If you’re more interested in house the collapse of the Azores property market, check out our most recent article about falling house prices in São Miguel here.

Where can I find a Beer Garden in São Miguel?

by AzoresBPK

The island of São Miguel has a lot to offer, but sometimes you just need to stop, take a drink under a sun umbrella and listen to some music.

Beer Gardens are very common around central Europe but where might you find something similar here in the Azores? There are a few spots, let us share them with you.

Taberna Na Boavista – Ponta Delgada

Just a few minutes from the centre of Ponta Delgada you will find Taberna na Boavista, a hybrid hostel / bar with a great vibe and a super nice garden out the back.

  • The garden is away from the street so you don’t hear traffic.
  • They also serve great food.
  • The price is a little on the high end but the vibe makes up for it.

It’s easy to park nearby and walk up the road to the bar. Find it on Google maps right here!

Something a little more crafty?

The Azores Brewing Company – Ribeira Grande

This is a great place to spend the afternoon! The Azores Brewing Company brews their own beer and boast a fun little beer garden just outside the brewery itself.

  • You can find beers here that you may not find elsewhere on the island.
  • The place has a fun vibe with games to play and toys for kids.
  • They have a plastic dome in the garden for you to shelter in if the rains do come.

Find the Azores Brewing Company here on Google maps, but you should know that they close at 9pm most days.

Something with an ocean view?

Beach Club – Santa Barbara

Although some would argue it isn’t technically a Beer Garden – it’s a place to drink surrounded by nature, so we are going to share it with you anyway.

  • It’s got it’s own little path down to the quiet end of Santa Barbara beach.
  • The parking is easy and there’s almost always space.
  • They often have live music events at the bar

You’ll find it right here on Google maps. Enjoy!

Maybe you want to go somewhere more upmarket?

Cais De Sardinha – Ponta Delgada

Right on the docks in Ponta Delgada you’ll find the great little spot with a few trees and the ocean touching the decking of the bar. The bar itself has indoor seating but you can choose to relax on the waterfront area or the picnic bench style zone right by the entrance.

  • It’s in the city so if you are staying in Ponta Delgada you can walk home after.
  • They also serve great food and snacks.
  • The ‘people’ watching of the marina and the boats going by created a perfect relaxing vibe.

It’s not far at all from the Arches of Ponta Delgada, check it our here on Google maps.

Possibly you want to bundle your beer garden experience with a day in Furnas?

A Quinta – Furnas

A Quinta is a very chill Beer Garden in the crater of Furnas, Near Parque Terra Nostra.

  • It’s in a great location and loads to do and see all around.
  • It’s open day and night, just check in advance before visiting.
  • The team running the place are super nice and have a reputation for great service, you’ll feel welcome for sure.

Tip: while you’re in the area check out these spots!

You’ll love it! You can find it here on Google maps!

more info on the Ponta Delgada indoor climbing and art space