Experience in Ponta Delgada, Portugal by Ana

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What is it like to live in Ponta Delgada? Would you recommend it? What is the city like?

"Quality of life" is the most adequate expression, I think. Everything is close by, you have the ocean right there, the closest beach is just 5 minutes away by car. Also, Azorean people are really hospitable and always ready to help.

What is the student lifestyle like in Ponta Delgada?

Ponta Delgada is not the typical student city with great academic traditions, but it still is very interesting for students in many ways.

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How much does it cost to live in Ponta Delgada?

Living in Ponta Delgada, and in the Azores in general, is quite cheap. In fact, it's cheaper than in most Portuguese cities, since taxes are lower due to the fact that it is isolated.

Is it difficult to find accommodation in Ponta Delgada? Is there any advice you can give?

No, I don't think it is difficult at all. Just look for some adds at the university or supermarkets, or ask your colleagues (in addition to browsing the web, of course).

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What is the food like? What are your favourite dishes?

Food is great all over the Azores. In São Miguel Island in particular, there are great restaurants. Fish, beef and seafood are always fresh and really tasty. There are also great cheeses and pastry.

What places would you recommend visiting in Ponta Delgada?

When in Azores, just enjoy (and respect) nature. In the municipality of Ponta Delgada, you can visit the beautiful lake of Sete Cidades, among so many other spots.

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Is it good to eat out in Ponta Delgada? Can you tell us your favourite spots?

In Ponta Delgada, I can recommend going to Taberna Saca-Rolhas for some really good Portuguese food and environment, Rotas for vegetarians and Cais 20 for seafood especially. However, there are many more restaurants all over the island of São Miguel that are worth a visit.

Is the nightlife good in Ponta Delgada? Where is good to go?

Nightlife still has a long way to go, in my opinion, but it is getting better.

There are some classic spots such as cafe Cantinho dos Anjos, Jazz Bar and Restaurant Colégio 27 and Bar/ Art gallery Arco 8. All these are great places. Cafe 3/4 is also really worth a visit (also if you feel like having some hamburguers).

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What advice would you give future students heading to Ponta Delgada?

Enjoy the natural beauty of the island and take the chance to visit some of the other Azorean islands (closer to the summer if possible). Enjoy the ocean, the food and the Azorean architecture, which is completely different from the rest of Portugal. I believe being an Erasmus student in the Azores could be a really great experience.

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