By curating travel for small groups, we hope to join people from across the ocean to collaborate on ideas, projects, adventures, and to share local culture. Travel with Hotel Papel provides opportunities for people to explore different perspectives, traditions, and practices from each other. We are proud to work with local people and resources to help contribute to the local economy and help preserve the magic of the islands.
A trip with Hotel Papel is curated for small groups, for a purpose, and for an adventure.
The 10 Volcanoes Trail Run in Faial
To climb Pico Mountain in Pico
To explore the story of Hawk Island in Terceira
*We also offer fully curated trips for private groups. Send Lara a message for more information.
Hi! I'm Lara.
I am the daughter of immigrants from Terceira and Faial, two of the beautiful islands in the Açores. My journey to connect more with my heritage took a significant turn in 2011 when I became involved with the Azorean Whaleboats in New Bedford, MA. This involvement opened doors to immerse myself deeply in the culture, particularly through participating in international regattas with Pico and Faial. Through these experiences, I have built amazing friendships and discovered incredible opportunities to share the island's beauty and charm from a local perspective. My passion for the Açores continues to grow as I bring the essence of these islands to those around me.
A sister city relationship fosters cultural and commercial connections between two cities from different regions, aiming to build global friendship and understanding and draw different cultures together through what they have in common.
In the 19th century, Horta became an important port of call for the American whaling fleet. Whalers would offload whale oil, resupply their vessels, and pick up new crew members. This marked the beginning of the first wave of Azorean emigration to the U.S. , mostly to the East Coast and, in particular, to New Bedford. Another wave of Azorean emigration took place in 1957 when the Capelinhos volcano erupted on the island of Faial. Horta is the main port of the Azorean island Faial and a transatlantic meeting place for sailors. (explorenewbedford.org)
Known as the Blue Island, Faial is home to the youngest volcano in the Azores. Its main parish, Horta, is sister city to New Bedford, MA.
There is a rich international maritime culture in Horta, with the harbor hosting boats from all over the world.
APRIL 29 - MAY 5
Join us for the 10 Volcanoes Trail Race in May! Sign up for a 10k, 25k, 42k, 65k, or a 115k and explore the island through grit and adventure. Stay tuned for more details!
click the image below
Pico is the youngest of all the islands. Its landscape is visibly volcanic and is home to the highest peak in all of Portugal, Pico Mountain.
Pico is rich in vineyards, volcanic swimming areas, and Azorean Whaleboats!
SEPTEMBER
Get a whole new perspective from the top of Pico Mountain! Choose to climb in one day or as an overnight to watch the sun come up. Stay tuned for more details!
Terceira is the most metropolitan of these three islands with residents from all over the world.
From coastal city to incredible caves and cliffs, Terceira offers rich culture, breath taking views, and so much more.
TBD
Join us for an homage to the Hawk Island book series by local author, Manuela DaCosta. Read the books and explore 'Hawk Island' through the lens of the protagonist.
New Bedford, MA
Faial
Pico
Terceira