Jurassic Wonders: Azores' Botanical Marvels (Dinosaurs Not Included)

Imagine this: You're stepping away from your usual day into a bright, lively world. That's exactly what I felt when I visited the botanical gardens in the Azores. It was like going from 2D Super Mario Brothers to Zelda: Breath of the Wild.

As I walked through the gardens, I was surrounded by a sea of trees, flora, and fields of various plants. Huge blooms that seemed to belong on the VHS cover of 1993’s Jurassic Park dominated the landscape. I could picture a dinosaur popping out between the layers of massive leaves. My favorite part was the calm koi pond, with a hill covered in tropical trees and plants rising up on the opposite side.

Despite the liveliness of the surroundings, a peaceful calm filled the air. Every breath I took seemed to wash away any stress, filling me with a sense of peace that was invaluable. It was in these quiet moments that I thought, "Now this is what traveling is all about."

This was my second visit to the Azores, but it felt like my first true experience. My first trip was a quick walk around the city, which, while nice, was just the tip of the iceberg. The botanical gardens showed me the real Azores, the heart of its natural beauty.

Every part of the gardens held a new surprise. The variety of plants was incredible, with each section serving as a snapshot of a different ecosystem, showing off the magic of nature.

The botanical gardens of the Azores were more than just a collection of plants; they were a place of peace, a showcase of the strength and beauty of nature. They served as a reminder that the best adventures sometimes involve winding down, enjoying the moment, and finding peace in unexpected places. If you're planning your Azores visit, make sure to pack your sense of adventure and your love for the slow, beautiful moments in life. But hold on, there's more—we’ve got another stop to explore.