Few people without Portuguese roots or friends with Portuguese roots have ever heard of the Azores. They are a group of nine islands located in the mid-Atlantic, hence, in the fold of an atlas. Few tourists come here, although this is slowly changing, which makes the islands a unique place for those who want to visit a place that has an air of being untouched.

My family originates from São Miguel, the largest of the islands, and my parents retired early and moved back. I've visited numerous times since I was a kid, and it's been four years since my last visit. I was so glad to see my parents and especially my grandma.

I had forgotten that people clap when the pilot lands the plane, but it was a reminder of how thing are here: quiet and kind of old-fashioned.