ESCAPE TO THE AZORES A Journey Back in Time
If you enjoy trekking through timeless volcanic landscapes dotted with crater lakes, waterfalls, and hot springs, not to mention awe- inspiring marine life, the Azores may be the vacation spot for you! The Azores are an increasingly popular tourist destination, often called “the Hawaii of Europe” for their remote mid-ocean location and volcanic origins. The archipelago encompasses nine major islands 1,000 miles off the coast of Portugal and is one of the best whale-watching sites in the world. Visitors should plan their trip from the end of April to the beginning of May to view larger migratory species, such as the blue whale. This autonomous region of Portugal offers untamed beauty and plenty of outdoor activities, from kayaking to hiking. The climate is subtropical, with year-round temperatures ranging from 57 to 71 degrees Fahrenheit. Pico island’s rocky shorelines ascend as high as 7,713 feet atop the Ponta de Pico. Religious festivals and traditional holidays tie these predominantly Roman Catholic islands together. Beyond that, however, the islands’ culture, dialect, and cuisine vary widely. The largest island, São Miguel, is home to numerous hot springs and Europe’s only two tea plantations. An emblematic nature area, Sete Cidades, includes the famed Lagoa Azul (blue lagoon) and Lagoa
Verde (green lagoon). Numerous healing hot springs in Furnas offer opportunities for wellness and relaxation seekers. Ilheu de Vila Franca, a flooded crater islet accessible from the
southern shore of São Miguel, offers exceptional visibility of unique marine life, plus snorkeling, swimming, and cliff diving.
Wine lovers will enjoy the island of Pico, where vintners produce the islands’ complex volcanic wines. The Azores Wine Company offers tastings, tours, and overnight stays. The island of Santa Maria has the only white-sand beaches in the region and Faial Island’s bountiful hydrangea gardens have earned it the nickname “The Blue Island.” Foodies will also enjoy famous local foods, including octopus stewed in wine, kale soup, fried mackerel, and fresh yogurt and cheeses. Taken together, the Azores have something to delight any traveler.
SILKY CHOCOLATE MOUSSE This light, airy chocolate mousse is flavorful and requires only two ingredients. It’s the perfect easy-to-make treat for a weeknight or special occasion.
Train Your Brain!
INGREDIENTS
Inspired by TheKitchn.com
• 1 1/2 cup heavy cream, divided • 1 cup milk chocolate or dark chocolate chips (6 oz)
• Optional garnish: grated chocolate, crushed nuts, toffee, or brittle
DIRECTIONS
1. In a microwave-safe bowl, put 1/2 cup of cream in the microwave for 1 minute. 2. Stir in chocolate and let sit for 5 minutes, then whisk until smooth. 3. In a separate bowl, beat the remaining 1 cup of cream with a hand mixer or whisk until soft peaks form. 4. Set aside 1/2 cup of whipped cream for topping, and continue whipping the remaining cream until stiff peaks form. 5. Gently fold whipped cream into the cooled chocolate mixture in batches, mixing until combined but still light and fluffy. 6. Spoon into four ramekins or glasses, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving. 7. Top with reserved whipped cream and garnish if desired.
www.federalbenefitsmadesimple.com |3
Published by Newsletter Pro . www.NewsletterPro.com
Made with FlippingBook Ebook Creator