Hey! Who are you, and what are you working on?
I'm Marco, 44, Physical Education teacher and living on the island of São Miguel. Came here alone thinking of staying just for one year and 20 years later, a beautiful wife, an incredible kid, and an amazing dog, life on the island couldn't be more perfect.
With the pandemic situation, I'm currently working mostly on the Azores Atlantic Surfers project, taking more photos than ever and learning more every day, about the island, the people, the ocean, and everything around me.
How did you come up with the idea?
I was challenged by my friend Bruno "Crook" Gomes to go on with this idea of creating something different from what actually existed on the island.
A project that reflects the island life and pays tribute to all the Azorian local surf culture, mixing photography, art, and some good wine along the way.
We really want to meet interesting people and bring them together in the same space, whether they surf or not. Soon we hope to have a little art gallery/surf shop open here on the island.
What are the main challenges in your business right now?
There are a few, but one of the best things about our project is that the business part is not driving us. We are putting our love and soul into the project and most importantly doing what makes us happy.
We want to share more art, more Azorian surf culture, photography, get-togethers, events, and collaborations. Uniting all the Atlantic and surfers of other oceans. Obviously, the biggest challenge right now is the impossibility of people gathering and traveling. But we believe it will change fast.
One thing is for sure, we will be here on the island waiting for you.
What is your favorite surf spot and why?
Like in the north shore of Hawaii, in São Miguel island is no different.
More exposed to the swells, the north shore of the island is where the most consistent surf is. My favorite spot is there, Areal de Santa Barbara. A black sand beach with over a km, and several breaks along with the lineup.
Perfect to surf, walk along the beach and to take photos of other surfers
Where can we learn more about you?
We really don't have a lot to teach, but plenty to share 😀
Know more about the island life, our favorite people, and the Azorean surf culture at https://www.azoresatlanticsurfers.com/ or follow us @azoresatlanticsurfers / @marco.pcovo
