If you live within a reasonable distance of Logan airport you must visit the Azores. The islands are full of pristine nature, stunning vistas, idyllic villages, and temperate weather year round. The direct flights through SATA/Air Azores are two hours shorter than flights to San Francisco, one recent flight was 4h 15m!
I just returned from my sixth trip (some were two day stopovers on the way to other parts of Europe but deliberate nonetheless) and I still want to go back more.
People are friendly, the islands are safe and easy to explore, and they don't have to be expensive at all.
The last trip, lasting five days, cost $700 including a stay at a horse ranch B&B, rental car, gas, dinners and lunches out, and gifts for friends and family.
A first time traveler might want to checkout https://azoresgetaways.com/en. They have packages at really competitive prices for all times of the year.
Really I cannot recommend visiting enough. If anyone needs advice or assistance I'm happy to help.
