As I travel, I'm learning how dire it is when these companies with massive international funds behind them invade and usurp regional cultures with global products that have no soul, no passion, and certainly no emotional resonance for those regions.

Unless you have a friend or relative from one of the islands, it's virtually unknown to the majority of the populace. This is a good and bad thing. Good -- because these islands preserve some of the most untouched and natural beauty left in the world. Bad -- because if you're not here, you're missing out.

Legend says that these nine lonely islands, 1300 km off the coast of Portugal, are leftovers from Atlantis. In reality, the archipelago was born out of volcanic activity, and first settled by Europeans starting in the 1400s. Since then, the Azores have flown under the radar for many travellers, partly due to their distance.

The city welcomes all newcomers through the Portas de Cidade. You'll also find Senhor Sento Cristo Church which welcomes thousands of pilgrims coming to worship God's image in the streets. Nature lovers will most certainly enjoy the abundant amount of trails and lakes to discover, scattered along the volcanic island.