Useful Tips

Research is the most important part of planning before the trip, followed by booking flights and accommodation. Make a checklist, ask someone to water the plants and take care of the pet. Leave everything organized to leave without worries!

Trip planning

Deciding when to come
Obviously, you’ll travel when you can get away from work and other commitments, but you should also consider the cheaper travel seasons which are the periods before and after summer (January to April and October to December). The summer months (June to September) are the most expensive. Determine when to travel based on the weather, special festivals or events on the island, and travel deals. Keep in mind that during low seasons, the places you want to visit may have more limited opening hours.
Getting around at the destination
If you’re renting a car, research the best options and consider companies that offer free insurance, unlimited mileage, or complimentary child car seats. Car rental companies tend to have many hidden costs.
Documents and essentials in your wallet

Check if you have a valid passport for at least three months from the return date. Make sure you have the necessary visa to enter Europe. It is recommended to apply for a visa at least 6 weeks before your trip.

Consult your bank about an international credit card, where you can use it, and how. Inquire about any hidden fees for using your credit card outside of your country and keep the contact number in case of loss or theft of your card. Get travel insurance and decide if you want only health coverage or baggage loss and trip cancellation insurance. Your credit card company or health insurance may sell travel insurance. If you plan to drive, make sure you have an international driver’s license.
Health concerns
Organize the medications you regularly use to take with you on your trip.
How to get here
Flight booking is an art these days. There are several travel websites that conduct thorough searches to find the ideal time to buy and the cheapest time and day to fly. Check out the many budget airlines and see if it might be cheaper to fly with a layover. Plan transportation from the airport to your accommodation.
Where to stay

After working out your budget, you’ll have a general idea of the type of accommodation to look for. Accommodation and flights are the two things you should book in advance.

When selecting accommodation, consider your budget, personal preferences, any needs you may have (such as breakfast included, wheelchair access, family room, etc.), and most importantly, consider the location. Find out how to get to the accommodation from the airport. Check what the cancellation and payment policy is. At this stage, you’ve already chosen accommodation that you like, is within your budget, and provides everything you need. The next step is to pay and print your accommodation voucher. Contact the accommodation to arrange any special extras and ask your questions. Save the email responses. Some travelers prefer to book a hotel only for the first and last night of their trip and to find other accommodations once they arrive. This is only for the brave-hearted and super spontaneous.
Special Experiences
Make your trip even more special by including a unique activity, experience, or day tour. Wine tasting, boat tours, bike rides, stand-up paddleboarding, or many others are available. This type of activity usually needs to be booked in advance, but don’t book specific activities until you’ve booked your airfare.
Packing List
Get a sturdy suitcase; check with your airline for permitted dimensions of carry-on luggage. Start making a list and whenever you remember things to bring, jot them down to check when packing.
What is your budget?
The amount of time you spend on your trip and the activities you do and places you stay will largely be determined by your budget. Decide roughly how much you can afford before researching accommodations and plane tickets! Research where the exchange rates are best, convert your travel money into euros.
What to eat
Research local delicacies, the best restaurants, and must-try dining spots.
Planning what to see
Map out your basic itinerary, leaving some wiggle room, and then start filling in the blanks to see if you can fit in everything you want to see and do and on which days. Start with the top 10 attractions and after adding those essentials to your travel plan, add some attractions that personally interest you. If you have enough time, plan a day trip or two to another island. For each attraction, check when it’s open and if there’s availability. There’s nothing worse than arriving at a museum to find it’s closed! Have a basic plan but remain flexible. To truly experience Terceira, include both urban and rural activities in your itinerary.
Travel Gadgets and Apps
Today, travel can be enhanced with a few simple gadgets. There are endless apps you can download to facilitate your trip. For example, use the Exploreterceira mobile app as your guide and use online resources to create your own travel plan. Download a currency converter app, metric conversion app, translation apps, and mapping apps. Organize your smartphone plan so you can use your phone at minimal cost, check if you can access the internet from your phone, and if your phone charger is compatible with the European system. Save the phone numbers of your airline and accommodation in your contacts. If you prefer taking photos with a camera instead of your phone, remember to bring the charger and batteries. Equip yourself with a good pair of headphones and enough music to listen to during your adventure on Terceira Island.