Our culture
We have unique traditions, priceless heritage, and exemplary hospitality. All we ask is for responsible behaviour.
1. Dress appropriately
Wear clothing suitable for the place. Swimwear is for the beach; hiking boots are for the mountains. When visiting religious sites, remove hats and sunglasses.
2. Look, don’t touch
Do not touch artworks, sculptures, or exhibits. Do not climb, sit, or lean on heritage structures.
3. Share space respectfully
If you’re not staying in a hotel, you’ll likely be sharing space with locals:
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- Keep quiet after 10 p.m.;
- Follow condominium rules;
- Dispose of rubbish correctly: Ask your host if unsure;
- Use shared areas responsibly: swimming pools, lifts, and gardens deserve careful use.
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4. Sustainability in action
- Use water and energy responsibly;
- Protect the natural environment: Don’t pick flowers, remove stones, or leave litter;
- Reduce food waste: order only what you’ll eat;
- Walk, cycle, or use public transport whenever possible;
- Turn off lights, air conditioning, and appliances when not in use.
5. Courtesy is key
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- Respect queues and give priority to the elderly, pregnant women, and people with reduced mobility;
- On narrow streets, don’t block the way;
- Avoid loud talking or playing music at high volume;
- Use public or establishment restrooms. Never the street!
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6. Be original
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- Don’t copy someone else’s itinerary; discover what makes sense to you;
- Spread out your activities throughout the day: morning, afternoon, and sunset are ideal for enjoying the island;
- Explore beyond what you see on social media.
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7. Live more, document less
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- Enjoy your holidays: Good memories matter more than good photos;
- Respect people’s privacy: don’t photograph without consent;
- Don’t risk your safety for a photo.
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8. Join our traditions
- Respect religious and popular festivals, which are of great community value;
- Don’t turn sacred or devotional moments into 'tourist shows';
- Don’t interrupt processions, pilgrimages, or parades to take photos;
- In markets and fairs, ask permission before touching products.
9. Talk to us
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- Say 'bom dia' (good morning) or 'boa tarde' (good afternoon) when entering shops, cafés, or markets;
- Show interest in learning a few Portuguese words like 'obrigado' (thank you) and 'por favor' (please).
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10. Curiosity with limits
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- Respect private property: do not enter yards, land, or private 'levadas' without permission;
- Obey 'no entry' signs or physical barriers like fences and gates;
- Avoid photographing private properties or homes without consent;
- Don’t touch personal belongings or vehicles that aren’t yours;
- Respect staff-only areas in tourist or public facilities;
- Keep a respectful distance from residents’ homes and leisure spaces.
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