Graciosa "different island" since "Azores Fare" was implemented, highlights José Manuel Bolieiro - Communication

Presidência do Governo Regional

The President of the Regional Government, José Manuel Bolieiro, highlighted on Tuesday that Graciosa is a "different island" in terms of air accessibility and tourism, with a "very significant" increase in the number of passengers travelling to the island with the "Azores Fare." 

José Manuel Bolieiro spoke after a meeting with the Graciosa Island Council, the last item on the programme for the second day of the Regional Government's statutory visit.

It should be noted that the Regional Government approved the maintenance of the "Azores Fare" for 2024 and the allocation of funds for this purpose when the number of trips under this measure is nearing one million.

The measure, which consists of each Azorean paying a maximum of 60 Euros for round trips between any two islands in the Region, was created by the PSD/CDS-PP/PPM coalition in 2021. 

Regarding the hotel unit currently run by the Region, the President of the Government expressed his "good expectations" about a future sale.

"Graciosa is becoming an increasingly attractive tourist destination. The hotel is an asset for the consolidation of tourist accommodation on the island," he said.

As far as health is concerned, the President of the Government pointed out the "increase in the number of medical specialists" travelling to the island and the ever-growing "availability of consultations and examinations." He also stressed that, in the case of the Carapacho Thermal Spa, after years of "neglect" in terms of its "thermal potential," the current Government is looking for a way to harness that potential.