The Southeast Asian island state of Indonesia is the fourth most populous country in the world with a population of over 250 million inhabitants. In general, Indonesia is a country of superlatives: The largest island state on our planet is home to the largest Muslim population in the world and also extends over more than 17,000 islands. So it’s no wonder that the country is extremely diverse and also has a lot to offer for tourists.
Basic knowledge about Indonesia
Jakarta, Image: Andreas H / shutterstock
The official language of Indonesia is Bahasa Indonesia, which translates as “language of Indonesia”. In addition, there are numerous other local languages, about 700 in total, including Balinese, Sasak or Javanese.
Due to the Dutch colonial period, some words have also found their way into everyday language use that are very similar to German. For example, to search for medicines, all you have to look for is a sign with the inscription “Apotek”. Bali is considered the center of country tourism, which is why English is widely understood here. If you want to explore more remote areas of the island state, you should have at least a basic knowledge of Indonesian or even a local language.
In the tropical state, temperatures are usually between 25 and 35 degrees, and there is also permanently high humidity. The ideal time to travel is the dry season from April to November.
Indonesian cuisine
Most Indonesian dishes are based on rice, including the national dish Nasi Goreng. Curry, mixed vegetables, chicken, fish or sambal, a chili sauce, are usually added to the rice.
Other typical dishes of the country are, for example, Gado Gado, various vegetables with peanut sauce, Ikan Asam Manis (fish in sweet and sour sauce) or Soto Ayam, a yellow chicken soup with noodles.
The ideal opportunity to feast to your heart’s content is offered by the so-called “warungs”. These are street restaurants that offer generous portions at low prices. So you can dine outside Bali with only two euros. In Bali, on the other hand, you have to reckon with prices of five to ten euros, and the taste palette is also more similar to the western one.
Indonesia is also a true paradise when it comes to fruits. It is particularly worthwhile to taste papayas, mangoes, dragon fruits, rambutan, soursop and the small bananas, called pisang. Durian is also a must-try, as this mallow plant comes from Indonesia and leaves no one cold: Either you love the intense taste of the fruit – or you detest it!
Sights and Islands in Indonesia
Image: Thrithot / shutterstock
To reduce such a diverse and gigantic island state as Indonesia to a top 10 list of sights would hardly do justice to the magic of the country.
Rather, every tourist can discover their own kingdom here, where they will find exactly what they enjoy most when traveling.
Sumatra
If you want to explore areas that have hardly been developed for tourism so far, Sumatra is the right place for you: Untouched nature, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and numerous national parks where orangutans can be observed in the wild know how to inspire every adventurer. The north of the island also offers spectacular attractions: the island of Pulau Weh and the volcanic crater lake Toba provide photo motifs that are still quite unknown despite their very own magic.
If you long for civilization again afterwards, you should head to the metropolis of Padang, whose beaches are a true paradise for surfers.
Java
More than half of all Indonesians live on Java , even though the island is comparatively small. The center of Java is undoubtedly the Indonesian capital Jakarta, one of the largest cities in the world. However, due to the overwhelming traffic and air pollution, many tourists simply use Jakarta as a hub to get to other places. The capital can boast some fascinating sights, including Independence Square, the Sejarah Jakarta Historical Museum or the Taman Impian Jaya Ancol amusement park.
The city of Bandung is considered particularly representative of Indonesian culture and is also the starting point for exploring the surrounding forests.
The temples of Borobodur and Prambanan in the south of the island are also worth a visit and are ideal for a stopover on the way east.
Bali
Bali, Image: Cocos.Bounty / shutterstock
In the east of Java lies the island of Bali, which is considered the most famous island and the best developed in terms of tourist infrastructure. It enjoys the reputation of being a mecca for vegans and yoga fans, which is understandable given the extensive rice fields and paradisiacal beaches.
Another classic of Bali is the volcano Mount Batur, from the top of which an impressive view over the valley and the associated lake is revealed at sunrise. Beach vacationers and divers will find what they are looking for in the south of the small island; it also offers the richest entertainment.
If you are enthusiastic about Bali , but want to avoid the tourist hustle and bustle, the surrounding islands are the right place for you. On Nusa Lembongan, Nusa Pendia or Lombok you can experience the typical Bali experience in miniature, less touristy and commercially exploited.
Result
Indonesia is a fascinating pearl that will captivate every traveler. Whether you’re the type for outdoor activities or lavish parties, you simply want to relax on the beach or immerse yourself in the local culture, the Southeast Asian island nation more than satisfies every traveler.
With about 554,000 inhabitants, Dublin is not only the largest city in the Republic of Ireland, but also its capital. Its roots go back 2000 years, when the settlement of Eblana was first noted by a Roman cartographer at the current location of Dublin. However, Dublin was not officially founded until around the year 841 by the Vikings, who gave the place the sonorous name “Dubh Linn”, which means “dark swamp”. From 1711, the city was under the rule of the English crown and became the second most important city after London. The Easter Rising, which was suppressed in 1916, marked the beginning of the end of British rule and thus the independence of Ireland.
Northside and Southside Dublins
Image: David Soanes / shutterstock Since the 18th century, the River Liffey has divided the city and its social classes into two camps: The Northside, which is mainly inhabited by the lower social classes, and the Southside, which is mainly home to the upper class. While at the beginning of the partition the better-off people initially moved to the Northside, as new quarters were created there, they later moved back to the Southside, where they finally settled. Since then, there has been a kind of war between the two sides, while the people of the Southside don’t even want to be buried on the Northside, the people of the Northside see the people of the Southside as their opponents.
St. Patrick’s Cathedral
Dublin Castle, Image: Bernabe Blanco / shutterstock As the largest cathedral in Ireland, St. Patrick’s Cathedral is one of the most important sights in Dublin. What makes it special is its diverse mix of different exhibits that can be viewed in it. The most famous is probably the grave of the writer Jonathan Swift , who was dean of the cathedral from 1713 to 1745 and published the book Gulliver’s Travels during this time. Particularly striking, however, is the grave of the Boyle family, which takes up an entire wall. Right next to the cathedral is a small park, at the southwestern entrance there is a plaque that marks the place where the holy spring is said to have been located, with the help of which St. Patrick is said to have baptized the people. Those interested in the history of the cathedral can take part in a free guided tour, which is offered daily.
National History Museum
In addition to its official name, the museum also has a nickname, due to the many stuffed animals that are exhibited in it, it is also called “The Dead Zoo“.
Opening hours Natural History Museum Dublin
Tuesday – Saturday
10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Sunday
14:00 – 17:00
Closed on Mondays and public holidays
What is special about it is that it has largely not been changed since it was opened 150 years ago and is therefore still in its original state. The same applies to the transfer of knowledge, while many museums now lend audio guides to their visitors, you will look in vain for them here. Rather, a visit to the National History Museum in Dublin is a journey into the Victorian past, where you can marvel at the underwater world, the steps of evolution, the mammals of the world and the Irish fauna. Particularly noteworthy: Admission is free.
Trinity College
In front of the campus of Trinity College. Image: trabantos/shutterstock Ireland’s most famous college was founded in 1952 by Elizabeth I to counteract the exodus of young Protestant academics from Ireland. The old library is particularly spectacular, with 200,000 valuable books housed in the famous Long Room. Even more worth seeing than the Long Room, however, is the “Book of Kells”, which is exhibited in a special room, which contains a handwritten version of the four Gospels from the 8th century. In addition to the library, Trinity College has more to offer, including the smallest cemetery in Dublin. This is located between the chapel and the dining hall.
Dublin Castle
The castle was built as early as 1711 and served as the seat of the English rulers of Ireland until 1922. The fact that the castle complex looks very modern can be attributed to a large fire in 1684. After this, it was decided not to rebuild the castle grounds true to the original, but to adapt to the prevailing building methods of the time during reconstruction. Of the old building fabric, only the mighty Records Tower remained. Even today, the castle serves as a place for state conceptions and swearing-in. In 2011, for example, the banquet in honour of Queen Elizabeth II took place there in St. Patrick’s Hall. The castle can be visited free of charge and there is the possibility to take part in a guided tour of the walls.
Guinness Storehouse
The Guinness belongs to Ireland like the Oktoberfest to Munich. At the Guinness Storehouse, you can see the history of the brewery and learn about the brewing process. The lease is already on display in the entrance area, which was concluded for 9000 years. At the end of the tour, there is the opportunity to drink a pint included in the entrance fee. If you want to learn more about the brewery, you can attend one of the evening courses offered. Among other things, you will learn how to tap a pint correctly and a guided tour of the brewing section.
Culinary specialties in Dublin
If you travel to Dublin, the best way to start your morning is with an Irish breakfast, which consists of sausages, soda bread, ham, grilled tomatoes and eggs. Another speciality is the “Dublin Coddle”, a stew made from potatoes, shredded ham and sausages. For dessert, you should definitely try the “Porter Cake”, which consists of Guinness, dried fruits and brown sugar. In general, you can not only drink Guinness in Dublin, but often also find it in the country’s typical dishes.
The most important questions about Dublin
What is the population of Dublin?
Dublin has a population of 1.39 million in the region as a whole. Within the city limits live about 540,000 inhabitants
How long does it take to fly from Germany to Dublin?
The average flight time from Frankfurt to Dublin is about 1 hours and 50 minutes. From Munich, the flight takes about 2 hours and 15 minutes. From Dusseldorf to Dublin, the flight time is 1 hour and 40 minutes.
How big is Dublin?
Dublin has an area of 115 km².
What time is it in Dublin?
Dublin is currently 1 hour behind the time in Germany. At 8:00 a.m. in Germany, it is 7:00 a.m. in Dublin.
Holidays in Dublin: The most important information
Important telephone numbers
Emergency number (police, fire brigade, ambulance): 112 or 999
German Embassy in Dublin: +353 1 277 6100
Dublin Tourist Information: +353 1 605 7700
German Doctors
Dr. Christian Jessen: Pembroke Road, Ballsbridge, Dublin 4, +353 1 660 2951
Dr. Andreas Koerner: The Clinic, 63 Lower Mount Street, Dublin 2, +353 1 676 6566
The most important words with translation
Hallo – Hello
Thank you
Bitte – Please
Yes – Yes
Nein – No
Excuse me / Sorry
Where is…? – Where is…?
How much does it cost…? – How much is…?
Emergency – Emergency
Doctor – Doctor
Krankenhaus – Hospital
Holidays
New Year’s Day: January 1
St. Patrick’s Day: March 17
Good Friday: variable (March/April)
Easter Monday: variable (March/April)
Labor Day: First Monday in May
June Bank Holiday: First Monday in June
August Bank Holiday: First Monday in August
October Bank Holiday: Last Monday in October
Christmas: December 25
St. Stephen’s Day: December 26
Opening hours
Shops: Usually Monday to Saturday from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., Sunday from 11:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Many shopping centers have longer opening hours.
Supermarkets: Usually daily from 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.
Restaurants: Lunch from 12:00 to 15:00, dinner from 18:00 to 22:00.
Banks: Monday to Friday from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Airport
Dublin Airport (DUB): The largest airport in Ireland, about 10 km north of Dublin city centre.
There are regular bus and taxi services to the city centre.
Post / Stamps
Post offices: In all major districts and shopping centres. Main Post Office (GPO) on O’Connell Street.
Opening hours: Monday to Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., Saturday from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
Stamps: Available at the post office and in some kiosks and supermarkets.
Costs for letters and postcards to Germany: Standard letter up to 50g: approx. 1.70 EUR; Postcard: approx. 1.70 EUR
Safety
Crime: Dublin is considered safe, but tourists should take common precautions, especially in larger cities and tourist areas.
Emergency number: 112 or 999
Current
Voltage: 230 volts
Sockets: Type G (adapters for European plugs are required)
Tip
Restaurants: 10-15% of the bill amount is customary if no service charge is included.
Taxis: Round up the amount or about 10%
Hotels: 1-2 euros per day for cleaning staff
Customs
Allowances within the EU: No customs restrictions on personal belongings.
Alcohol: Maximum 10 liters of spirits, 20 liters of alcoholic beverages with less than 22%, 90 liters of wine, 110 liters of beer.
Tobacco: 800 cigarettes, 400 cigarillos, 200 cigars, 1 kg of tobacco.
What an island! The landscapes are incomparable. Worldwide, there are hardly any parallels to this fascinating stretch of land, formed by repeated and long-lasting volcanic eruptions. Lanzarote is the island of the Canary Islands most affected by volcanism. Even the look out of the window of an airplane creates a science fiction atmosphere. Formations suddenly emerge from bare hills, while fast-moving clouds cast their shadows on a lunar landscape full of unreal shapes and colors – lined with the spray of the roaring ocean.
Lanzarote – Forget the noise of the world
If you pause, you will discover the entire magic of this island. One third of Lanzarote consists of lava, eruption craters and ash mountains. They shimmer pitch black to rusty red in the sun. Snow-white houses offer a harsh contrast. Here, breathtaking natural wonders, the colonial architecture of the Spaniards and impressive works of art enchant you.
In the steppe-stony desert, no forests and hardly any trees thrive. Nevertheless, plant life is stirring: palm trees, colourful flowers and lush cacti adorn the hotel and apartment complexes. Here and there, colorful succulents proliferate, while bright green euphorbias cover the laval fields.
“No tree, no herb”: This is how the German geologist Leopold von Buch described the island, which was marked by volcanic eruptions, around 1825. Even 200 years later, almost a third of the island’s area resembles a lunar landscape rather than a holiday paradise.
Lanzarote has had a particularly hard time of all the Canary Islands. Volcanic eruptions have repeatedly buried the agricultural regions, and the island is almost waterless. In addition, there were periods of drought, pirate raids, economic crises and plagues of locusts. Remarkable: In 1993, UNESCO named the island a “World Biosphere Protected Area”, based on the habitats in which man and nature harmonize to a special degree.
Sea, volcanoes and lots of art
Papagayo beach on Lanzarote, Image: Reisemagazin-Online
Arrecife, the Timanfaya National Park, Haría, Puerto del Carmen, Costa Teguise or impressive lava grottoes and viewpoints – Lanzarote offers outstanding and above-average sights in a relatively small area.
The island artist César Manrique receives special attention. He succeeded in combining art and nature in a unique way.
The north of Lanzarote
The region is the greenest, rainiest and most scenically varied part of the island. The northwest is dominated by the Risco de Famara mountains.
At the foot of the Famara Mountains lies Haría, the town in the “Valley of a Thousand Palms”. Snow-white houses contact black fields here. It seems African when countless palm trees suddenly appear at the foot of the mountains. This is where César Manrique lived, and where he is buried. His estate can be visited.
Souvenir shop in the cactus garden, Image: Reisemagazin Online
Jardin de Cactus: In the vast basin of a former quarry, a cactus garden was created according to the plans of César Manrique. The Jardin de Cactus was opened in 1990 near Guatiza. Visitors can walk on several floors in the midst of 1420 different cacti and other desert plants. Tall stone columns and deep black lava stones enhance the effect of this ambience – it looks like an alien world.
The cactus garden was his last work – César Manrique died in a traffic accident in 1992.
A visit to the magnificent Mirador del Rio viewpoint is a must. The Mirador is a viewpoint with a café-restaurant carved directly into the rock on the site of an old observation post in the far north of Lanzarote at an altitude of 479 metres – an impressive work by César Manrique.
A trip to the offshore eighth Canary Island of La Graciosa is also worthwhile. The graceful beauty can be reached by boat. Every day, the small barges swing like nutshells on the water. From Orzola, boats cross to Caleto del Sebo several times a day. You should choose a quiet day for the crossing. Even in reasonably calm seas, the waves are remarkable.
Where vines duck into small craters – the centre of Lanzarote
La Geria, Image: Reisemagazin Online
This is where Arrecife is located, overlooked by two castles. The main town of the island is not particularly beautiful, but authentic and lively. Particularly worth seeing is the drawbridge, which creates the connection to an upstream mini-island. Here is the Castillo de San Gabriel from the 16th century. From its roof, there is a wonderful view over the city.
Just a few kilometers to the south, lies the gigantic resort town of Puerto del Carmen with four enchanting sandy beaches. At Playa Granda, the best beach of all, loungers and colorful parasols are neatly lined up in Prussian order. A conglomerate of shopping centres, residential complexes, discos and restaurants stretches along the coast over a length of ten kilometres. The town offers all the amenities expected of a holiday resort. Night owls will find iconic music bars on Avenda de las Playas in the Centro Arena Dorada.
North of the capital, the colonial old town of Teguise inspires. On the Costa Teguise, windsurfers will find their Dorado.
By the way, Uga is the last inhabited place on the Fire Mountains. In the core area of the eruptions of the hamlets of Timanfaya , Uga is the only village to have been rebuilt. The lovingly prepared front gardens look like colorful splashes of color in a bizarre landscape.
To the Fire Mountains – welcome to Timanfaya National Park!
El Lago Verde on Lanzarote, Image: Reisemagazin Online
Here, the volcanic heritage is skilfully staged. Through a landscape of gloomy violence, you reach the bizarre Fire Mountains, which present themselves eerie and primeval in nature. They were only formed from years of violent magma eruptions in the middle of the 18th century. Born of the earth’s heat, torn crater flanks shimmer bizarrely in all earth colors. On the way in the national park, you get an intensive insight into the “creation story” of the Canary Islands.
Tip: Rangers lead on a two-hour hike through the area. You can and should register at the Centro de Visitantes. Experience has shown that the individual tours are fully booked for weeks in the high season.
These are neither parts of the African continent nor the submerged Atlantis, but volcanic elevations of the approximately 4000-metre-deep floe fragments of the Atlantic floor many millions of years ago. With dromedaries you ride to the Fire Mountains. The temperatures are up to 10 centimeters below the earth’s surface so high that eggs can be prepared in the ground.
At the southern end of the island – fascination of the desert
It’s hard to resist the desert charm of Lanzarote’s driest region. A few inconspicuous grasses, some colorful lichens – a land parched by the sun. This is what it may look like on the edge of the Sahara. That means: sun guarantee!
The fishing village of Playa Blanca could develop into a huge holiday area here. The new Maris Rubicón district is particularly successful architecturally. The Playas de Papagayo offers the most beautiful beaches on the island. In the east of the holiday town, they are the attraction.
Another highlight is a deep green lagoon. The Charco de los Clicos lies in the shape of a crescent in the arch of a sunken crater basin. In contrast to the dark blue Atlantic Ocean with white spray and pitch-black lava sand, it is an unforgettable sight.
Spain’s star director Pedro Almodóvar once enthused: “I have never seen such dramatic colors in nature.”
The Fire Mountains as well as the deep green lagoon provided a great backdrop for many a science fiction film. The fantasy remake “Clash of the Titans” (2010) was also made here.
Questions and answers about Lanzarote
What is the weather like in Lanzarote?
Weather in Lanzarote
Month
Average temperature (°C)
Precipitation (mm)
Sunny days
January
17
14
6
February
17
12
7
March
18
9
8
April
19
5
9
May
21
2
10
June
24
0
11
July
27
0
11
August
28
0
10
September
26
3
9
October
24
12
8
November
21
20
7
December
18
17
6
What is the name of the most famous citizen of Lanzarote?
The most famous citizen of Lanzarote is undoubtedly César Manrique. César Manrique was a Spanish artist, architect and environmentalist who was born in Lanzarote and played a significant role in preserving and shaping the island’s natural and cultural environment. He is particularly known for his unique architectural works and his commitment to environmental protection in Lanzarote. Manrique’s influence and legacy are pervasive on the island and have helped make Lanzarote a popular destination for tourists from all over the world.
What special holidays are celebrated?
Day of the Canary Islands (Día de Canarias): On May 30th, the Day of the Canary Islands is celebrated, in which the inhabitants of Lanzarote celebrate the cultural identity and history of the Canary Islands.
Carnival (Carnaval): Carnival is celebrated extensively in Lanzarote, as in most of the Canary Islands. The exact dates vary from year to year, as they depend on the date of Easter. The festivities include parades, costume contests, and street parties.
Día de San Juan (St. John’s Day): On June 24, the Día de San Juan is celebrated, when fireworks and bonfires are lit. This day marks the beginning of summer and is often celebrated with beach parties and other activities.
Day of the Virgin Carmen (Virgen del Carmen): This religious holiday is celebrated on July 16 and honors the patron saint of fishermen. Processions and events take place in coastal communities, especially in Puerto del Carmen.
Canary Islands Autonomy Day (Día de la Autonomía de Canarias): On August 10, the autonomy of the Canary Islands is celebrated. This is a holiday where local events and activities take place.
Christmas (Navidad): Like everywhere else in the world, the Christmas holidays are celebrated in Lanzarote. These include festive decorations, Christmas markets, and religious events.
How long is the flight from Germany to Lanzarote?
The flight time from Germany airports to Lanzarote depends on several factors, including the departure airport in Germany, the flight route, and whether there are direct flights. As a rule, a direct flight from Germany to Lanzarote takes about 4 to 4.5 hours.
Here are some estimated flight times from different UK airports to Lanzarote (Arrecife Airport):
Frankfurt am Main to Arrecife: About 4 to 4.5 hours
Please note that these are approximate flight times and may vary depending on the flight route, aircraft type and weather conditions. It is always advisable to check the exact flight times and connections with your airline or travel agency before planning a trip to Lanzarote.
You should definitely know these words:
Hola – Hello
Buenos días – Good morning
Buenas tardes – Good day/Good afternoon
Buenas noches – Good evening/Good night
Por favor – Please
Gracias – Thank you
De nada – Please (in response to “Thank you”)
Sí – Yes
No
¿Cómo estás? -How are you doing?
¿Cuánto cuesta? – How much does it cost?
¿Dónde está…? – Where is…?
¿Cómo llego a…? – How do I get to…?
Baño – Bathroom
Comida – Food
Agua – Water
Playa – Beach
Restaurante – Restaurant
Cerveza – Beer
Vino – Wine
Important telephone numbers in Lanzarote:
Emergency ( general emergency): 112 This number is valid throughout Europe for emergencies and is the first number you should call in any serious emergency.
Police (Guardia Civil): 062 For law enforcement and security issues, you should contact the local police.
Fire Brigade (Bomberos): 080 For fire and rescue services, you should call the local fire department.
Medical Emergency/Ambulance: 061 If you need medical assistance or an ambulance, call this number.
Poison Control Centre: 91 562 04 20 In case of poisoning or toxic contamination, you can contact the National Poison Centre.
Tourist information: The local tourist offices in Lanzarote offer assistance to tourists. The exact phone numbers may vary depending on your location, but you can usually search for “Oficina de Turismo Lanzarote” on the internet to find the contact information for the tourist office in your area.
Paying in Lanzarote
Currency: The official currency in Lanzarote and throughout Spain is the Euro (EUR). It is advisable to have a few euros in cash with you, especially for small purchases and for places that may not accept credit cards.
ATMs: ATMs are common in Lanzarote and can be found in towns, tourist areas and bank branches. Most ATMs accept international credit and debit cards. However, be aware of any fees that may apply to cash withdrawals, especially if you use a foreign card.
Credit cards: Credit cards are accepted in most hotels, restaurants, shops and car rental agencies in Lanzarote. Visa and Mastercard are widely available, while American Express and Discover may be less accepted. Nevertheless, it is advisable to always have some cash with you.
Tipping: In restaurants and cafés, tipping is usually not included in the bill amount. It is customary to leave about 10% to 15% of the bill amount as a tip if the service is not already included on the bill. In bars, you can give small change as a tip.
Price negotiation: Price negotiation is not common in Lanzarote, except perhaps in local markets and with independent sellers. In shops and restaurants, prices are usually fixed.
Bank opening hours: Most banks in Lanzarote are open from Monday to Friday from 8:30 am to 2:00 pm. Some banks also offer branches open in the afternoon. However, ATMs are available around the clock.
Traveller’s cheques: Traveller’s cheques are not as widely accepted in Lanzarote as credit and debit cards. It may be difficult to cash them, and you may have to pay fees for exchanging traveler’s checks.
What are the main attractions in Lanzarote?
Timanfaya National Park, Image: Travel Magazine Online
Timanfaya National Park : This volcanic landscape is breathtaking, featuring geysers, hot springs, and extinct volcanoes. It is one of the main characteristics of Lanzarote.
Cueva de los Verdes : These underground caves are part of Lanzarote’s lava tunnel system and offer fascinating geological formations.
Jameos del Agua : Another impressive cave system designed by César Manrique that features an underground lake, concert hall, and restaurant.
Mirador del Río : A viewpoint on a cliff that offers stunning views of the neighboring island of La Graciosa and the surrounding waters.
El Golfo : A green crater lake next to a black sand beach with a half-submerged volcanic cone.
Castillo de San José: An 18th-century historic castle that now houses an arts and culture center.
La Geria: A unique wine-growing area where vines are planted in crescent-shaped hollows to protect against wind and weather conditions.
Fundación César Manrique: The former home and studio of the famous artist and environmentalist César Manrique, which is now a museum.
Teguise: A charming, historic town with cobblestone streets and a weekly flea market.
Papagayo Beaches: A group of beautiful beaches in the south of the island with crystal clear waters and golden sand.
Los Hervideros: A fascinating coastal landscape with natural lava formations and waves splashing against the rocks.
Haria: Also known as the “Valley of a Thousand Palm Trees”, Haria is a picturesque village with lush vegetation and charming ambiance.
Our tip: At the ticket offices, you can purchase combo packages for various attractions. This will save you money if you want to see different sights in Lanzarote.
Our picture gallery
Die spalten Las Grietas auf Lanzarote, Bild: Reisemagazin Online
Souvenirshop im Kaktusgarten, Bild: Reisemagazin Online
Kaktusgarten in Lanzarote, Bild: Reisemagazin Online
El Lago Verde auf Lanzarote, Bild: Reisemagazin Online
Das Weinanbaugebiet La Geria auf Lanzarote, Bild: Reisemagazin Online
Papagayo-Strand auf Lanzarote, Bild: Reisemagazin-Online
Der Timanfaya Nationalpark auf Lanzarote, Bild: Reisemagazin Online
Cueva de los Verdes auf Lanzarote, Bild: Reisemagazin Online
If you want to get to know Switzerland , you should not miss Davos. Because there are a few reasons to visit the popular climatic health resort. Davos is the highest city in Europe, located in the canton of Graubünden and offers its visitors a wide range of sports, leisure and cultural activities. In summer, Davos is a wonderful destination, because the mountain landscape offers many hiking trails through meadows and forests at lofty heights. Many holidaymakers are drawn here especially in winter, which is certainly also due to the city’s winter sports history. In 1883, the first toboggan race took place in Davos, and the first ski lift was inaugurated in 1934. Even the Nobel Prize winner for literature Thomas Mann was enthusiastic about Davos and wrote his well-known novel “The Magic Mountain” here.
The special healing climate in Davos
Davos is not only known for its beautiful surroundings, but also for its special healing climate. The healthy and healing power of the Davos climate is helpful in therapies against infectious and allergic diseases of the lungs and respiratory tract. The longer the duration of the stay, the greater the health-promoting effects. Pollen allergy sufferers also appreciate a holiday in Davos, because the pollen load is reduced to only a few weeks a year due to the altitude.
Davos – the versatile city
Davos developed into a trendsetter early on with a wide range of leisure activities. Theatres, coffee houses, concerts and cinemas entertained guests 100 years ago. Even today, Davos offers a wide variety of sports and culture with galleries and museums, as well as a wide range of nightlife options, including numerous ski huts, snow bars and après-ski.
Sights and tourism in Davos
Davos in winter, Image: Leon Gutierrez / shutterstock
Winter sports are of course very important in Davos, which is also due to the total of five first-class ski resorts. The well-known ski resorts include Parsenn, Schatzalp, Jakobshorn, Rinerhorn and Pischa. In total, there are a good 320 kilometres of slopes here. In addition, there are about 60 lifts and gondola lifts. So a great skiing holiday is guaranteed.
In summer, you can explore impressive hiking trails with a total of 700 kilometers. Lake Davos is also worth a visit. With a shore length of a good 4 km, the lake can reach 20° Celsius in the summer months and offers many sports and leisure opportunities for water sports enthusiasts. In addition to Lake Davos, the lido also offers the opportunity for refreshment and extensive sunbathing. At the lake and also in the lido you can relax and unwind.
The Winter Sports Museum
The Winter Sports Museum, which opened in 1988, has two rooms. On display is the comprehensive collection of valuable winter sports equipment and documentation from a foundation of the Kaufmann family, as well as the archive of the hockey club. The museum’s numerous exhibits include bobsleighs, sledges, ice skates, skis and ski bindings. They range from the beginnings of winter sports to the present day.
The Medicine Museum at Davos Platz
The ski area in Davos, Image: mezzotin / shutterstock
If you are interested in the history of medicine, the Medical Museum Davos is the right place for you. Historical traces of medicine and the spa town of Davos are explained on display boards. Interesting details about the milestones in the history of tuberculosis and medical equipment of the first Davos sanatoriums can be admired in the museum. The medical-historical collection currently comprises more than 500 medical devices.
A visit to the Kirchner Museum
The unique Kirchner Museum is also worth mentioning. From 1918 until his death, Ernst Ludwig Kirchner lived in Davos. With his extensive oeuvre, he is considered groundbreaking for German Expressionism. In 1992, the Kirchner Museum was opened in an architecturally impressive building in Davos and has since housed the world’s largest collection of his works.
Alpinum Botanical Garden
The approximately two-hectare Alpine Garden is located in the rear part of the Schatzalp area in a varied terrain. From June to September, over 3500 plant species from all the mountains of the world bloom here, e.g. high mountain flowers from the Pyrenees, New Zealand, Nepal, China or Tibet. Each plant has its own sign listing the most important characteristics. Interested visitors can learn a lot about the botanical history of the various plants in the Alpinum. The Alpinum also offers seminars and guided tours on medicinal plants and gentle gardening.
Reading benches – A nice idea for bookworms
Along walking and hiking trails in Davos and Klosters, so-called reading benches are set up from June to October. On a total of eight benches, which invite you to linger and browse, there is a box with different books for all ages. The offer of the libraries is gladly accepted and finds more and more friends every year.
It is no coincidence that the Republic of Seychelles is named in the plural in the German language. Because the Seychelles, as it is colloquially abbreviated, is an association of no less than 115 islands. The Seychelles are located in the Indian Ocean and one of the many islands seems more beautiful to visitors than the other. Typical here are the powder-white sandy beaches in front of turquoise blue and clear sea water. Many of the islands are made of granite stone, others identify themselves as coral islands. Divers and beach lovers get their money’s worth in the Seychelles as well as nature and hiking enthusiasts. What to see in Seychelles?
We have selected the most beautiful of the 115 islands of the Seychelles for you.
The main island of Mahé
View of Victoria Harbour, Image: GagliardiPhotography / shutterstock
With a length of 28 kilometres and a width of eight kilometres, Mahé is not only the largest island in the Seychelles, but also the most populous. The island has about 72,000 inhabitants and that is 90 percent of the entire population of the Seychelles. A visit to the capital Victoria with the Mont Fleuri Botanical Gardens is worthwhile. This botanical garden is located on the 150-metre-high Mount Fleur and is home to 33 different species of palm trees, among other things. Mahé is also known as the island of forests and orchids. The area of the Morne Seychellois National Park is covered by tropical rainforest. The mountain Morne Seychellois is the highest mountain in the Seychelles at 905 meters. Numerous hiking trails lead to the summit. Along the way, you will encounter exotic lianas, mangroves and turtles. Travel to the Seychelles with Voyage Privé and get to know the main island of Mahé.
Dream beaches and palm trees on Praslin
The wonderful beach Anse Lazio on Praslin, Image: Micha Rosenwirth / shutterstock
The second largest island in the Seychelles, Praslin is particularly popular with beach lovers. The beaches of Anse Georgette and Anse Lazio are both picture-book beaches, which are extensively overgrown by the Seychelles palm tree, which is only native here. Certified diving instructors introduce you to the beauties of the local underwater world. And there is also a national park on Praslin , which has a particularly interesting forest and palm trees. It is crisscrossed by romantic streams and narrow waterfalls. The national park, known as the Vallée de Mai, is even a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Those who visit the national park will also encounter numerous rare birds, such as the corvid parrot or the thick-billed fleeing bird.
The wedding island of La Digue
Anse Source d’Argent on La Digue, Image: Simon Dannhauer / shutterstock
It is not uncommon for weddings to take place on La Digue. Because this island is so beautiful that international wedding couples like to choose it as a backdrop for their wedding ceremony and, of course, for their wedding pictures. The beaches of Pointe Source d’Argent and Anse Source à Jean are particularly beautiful, both interwoven with granite rocks. Since La Digue is completely car-free, you can relax on the island. If you want, you can rent a bike to explore the island. The Nid D’Aigle, the highest elevation on the island at 333 meters, is a popular hiking destination. From the summit you have a magnificent panoramic view of the whole of La Digue. In the bird sanctuary La Digue Veuve Réserve, the Seychelles paradise flycatcher breeds, which earns admiring glances with its deep blue plumage.
Great silhouette of Silhouette Island
The beautiful island silhouette in the Seychelles, Image: Serge Vero / shutterstock
The island of Silhouette was so named because of its interesting silhouette. Viewed from the neighboring islands, you can see that Silhouette is surrounded by a striking chain of rocks. There are no roads on Silhouette. Basically, the island looks wild and primeval and some corners have been little explored and developed to this day. So if you appreciate original nature experiences, you will have a lot of fun here. At Anse La Passe, the longest beach on the island, you can relax in peace and solitude. There are many bays here where you can retreat. If you want, you can stop by the breeding station for Seychelles giant tortoises.
Between luxury and eco-tourism on North Island
North Island is a very special island, because it combines luxury and eco-conscience in perfect form. On the island, which is only two square kilometres in size, you can enjoy a really expensive and at the same time high-quality luxury holiday in the luxury resort. Here, too, there are plenty of dream beaches next to densely overgrown palm beaches. In addition, North Island is a destination for many volunteers who have dedicated themselves to nature and species conservation. Here they help to protect rare turtle species.
Desroches Island: Off the beaten track
If you like to be mainly among locals, Desroches Island is the right place for you. The island is located 200 kilometers from the main island of Mahé and is best reached by plane. Here, 14 kilometres of beach invite you to snorkel, dive and relax. Desroches Island is an international insider tip among divers, because hardly anywhere else are fish and underwater plants more colorful than here. If you want to do sports in a different way, you will find countless hiking and mountain biking trails on the island, all of which are well developed and signposted. Many lead through an excitingly dense tree population with the most wonderful shades of green.
When planning their vacation, many tourists like to resort to the offers of classic tour operators. If you book a package tour, you don’t have to worry about anything. From the train to the flight to the hotel transfer – the entire trip is thoroughly organized. Experience reports from all tour operators will help you find the right provider. But who are the largest travel companies in Germany? Below we have listed the five largest tour operators for you:
1. TUI Germany
TUI (Touristik Union International) has been the undisputed number one among the largest tour operators in Germany for many years.
TUI, or rather its predecessor company Preussag, was founded in 1923. Once a steel and trading company, the company developed into a travel company, mainly through its investments in ship and aircraft construction.
From 1997 onwards, Preussag became one of the largest service companies in the leisure industry worldwide through the takeover of the shipping and logistics group Hapag-Lloyd. Later, TUI AG and TUI Travel Plc merged to form the TUI Group, which still exists today.
In the travel sector, TUI Deutschland GmbH is the executing company when it comes to package holiday offers, holiday flights and cruises. The company owns its own airline, operates cruise ships and holiday resorts in the most popular holiday destinations worldwide.
The TUI Group also includes the travel brands L’TUR, Boomerang-Reisen, 1-2-FLY, airtours, Gebeco, OFT REISEN, berge&meer, OX-TOURS and Viverde.
In addition to the online booking business, TUI operates around 1,800 brick-and-mortar travel agencies throughout Europe.
Before the pandemic, around 30 million people made use of TUI’s holiday offers every year, which brought the large group annual sales of around 6.6 billion euros. Since 2020, as with all travel providers, sales have declined somewhat.
2. REWE Group GmbH – DER Touristik and ITS Reisen
For many years, Thomas Cook Reisen took second place among the most successful travel providers in Germany. The company founder of the same name is still considered the inventor of the package tour (first offered for Egypt in 1869). In 2019, the group had to file for bankruptcy. The reason was the bankruptcy of the British umbrella company.
The German REWE Group became part of the company, which used it to expand its travel business. The Rewe Group is a German retail group based in Cologne. In addition to food retailing, the tourism sector has become the second most important division of the large group.
Package tours, flights, round trips, hotel stays, wellness trips and cruises are offered partly under the name REWE-Reisen (mainly via supermarket brochures and online). In addition, the well-known travel companies DER Touristik and ITS Reisen belong to the REWE Group. DER Touristik also includes such well-known names as DERTOUR, Meier’s Weltreisen, ADAC Reisen, Tjaereborg and Jahn Reisen.
Before 2020, sales in the travel sector were 4 to 5 billion euros annually.
3. FTI Group
The FTI Group (formerly Frosch Touristik GmbH) is a travel company founded in 1983 and headquartered in Munich. Initially, the FTI Group’s offer focused on language trips and later on trips to Mediterranean regions.
In the meantime, the FTI Group also offers worldwide package or modular tours, city trips, cruises and last-minute trips. Another focus is rental car brokerage. In addition, the FTI Group is behind the well-known travel channel sonnenklar.tv.
Other travel companies of the group are 5vorFlug, the online travel portal fly.de and the language tour operator LAL Sprachreisen.
The company normally has an annual turnover of around 4 billion euros.
Hint: On Monday, 3 June, the FTI Group filed for bankruptcy. If you have any questions, you can find more information in the daily press. FTI has also set up an information page: https://www.fti-group.com/de/insolvenz
4. Aida Cruises
On the road with the Aidasol, Image: Bjoern Wylezich / shutterstock
Aida Cruises is the cruise division of the British cruise company Carnival Corporation & plc, which is based in Genoa , Italy, and is specially tailored to the German market.
The company’s fleet includes the ships AIDAprima, AIDAstella, AIDAmar, AIDAblu, AIDAluna and AIDAsol.
The fleet’s trademark is the kissing lips with the four-color AIDA lettering. Cruises and club cruises are offered on the Mediterranean and in worldwide waters.
The ships are owned by the subsidiary Costa Crociere, with Carnival Maritime GmbH in Hamburg managing and organising fleet operations. The company also owns the cruise companies Costa Crociere and Costa Asia.
The company has a turnover of around 2 billion euros annually under good travel conditions and, according to its own information, is the market leader in cruises in Germany.
5. Alltours
Alltours Flugreisen GmbH is a German tour operator based in Düsseldorf. The Alltours group of companies also includes the Alltours-X and Byebye divisions. Since the end of Thomas Cook, Alltours has risen to become the fifth largest tour operator in Germany.
Alltours owns or has a significant stake in a number of hotels in the Mediterranean region. The company operates over 35 of its own large holiday resorts in Spain and Greece.
Today, the travel portal offers long-distance trips to exotic countries in addition to Mediterranean tours. In addition to the classic package tours, Alltours operates the pure rental of hotel rooms and holiday trips with self-arrival. In addition, the group also rents out entire holiday apartments or apartments in the company’s own holiday resorts.
Alltours is especially popular with families with children. The holiday resorts and hotels have received several awards for their child-friendliness.
Before the pandemic, sales were around 1.5 billion euros per year.
The picturesque white mountain village of Frigiliana on the edges of the Sierras de Tejeda Natural Park in Andalusia captivates with its white houses that shine at you from afar.
With its narrow streets, the edges of which are decorated with flowers and decorations, Frigiliana is still in typical Moorish style.
At the end of August, the Festival de las Tres Culturas – the Festival of the Three Cultures – is held in Frigiliana every year. It celebrates the coexistence and confluence of Christian, Muslim and Jewish traditions in the region. Part of the festivities are numerous live performances and street performers. Music and gastronomy are dedicated to these cultures on this occasion. Exhibitions also take place in the course of the festival.
Attractions in Frigiliana
Castillo de Lizar
Once upon a time, the Castillo de Lizar towered over Frigiliana. Today, however, hardly the foundation of the fortress remains. In 1569, the Arab castle was destroyed by a Christian army and never rebuilt.
The Castillo was built between the 9th and 11th centuries on the top of Cerro de la Sabina and occupied a total area of 4000 square meters.
For a time, the fortress housed the Moorish rebels from Malaga and Granada who had fled there from the king’s suppression of their culture and religion. However, they also had to surrender to the troops and the fortress was destroyed.
Although there are only a few remains of the fortress itself, from the summit you have a wonderful view of the village and its surroundings as far as the Mediterranean Sea when the weather is nice.
The Church of San Antonio de Padua
This typical Andalusian church was built in the 17th century on the former site of a mosque.
For the most part, it was kept in the Renaissance style. It is very simple and the ceiling inside is made of wood. Some of the original frescoes can still be seen in their entirety.
The statues are, as is customary in Spain , dressed in real clothes.
A special attraction are also the Easter traditions and processions that take place from this church.
Palace of the Counts of Frigiliana
On the road through Frigiliana, Image: Jan_S / shutterstock
The old mansion was built in the 16th century in the Renaissance style and occupies an area of over 2000 square meters. This made it once the largest building in the village.
The house is partly made of the material of the old Arab fortress.
Parts of the building are still present in their original state from over 400 years ago. These include, for example, the chapel, the halls, stables and stairs.
On the façade, for example, the beautiful sgraffito and a sundial can be admired.
Today, the only sugar factory in Europe that produces molasses is located within the walls.
Museo Arqueológico
The archaeological museum in the Casa del Apero has set itself the goal of preserving and transmitting the dissemination of the cultural and historical heritage of the municipality.
The museum allows a short journey through the history of Frigiliana and should therefore be an obligatory part of a visit to the place.
On an area of 400 square meters, the museum houses over a hundred finds. One of the oldest exhibits is dated to around 4500 BC.
The Casa del Apero, which houses the museum, dates back to the 17th century and has also housed a tourist office and library since its restoration in the 90s.
Temporary exhibitions – including exhibitions of paintings – are also held there.
Fuente Vieja
The stone fountain dates back to the 17th century and was donated to the village by the fifth count of Frigiliana, Don Inigo Manrique de Lara, as a drinking water fountain and watering place for animals.
It was originally known as “The New Fountain”, but today its name is “The Old Fountain”.
Facts about Frigiliana
Location: Frigiliana is located about six kilometers inland from the Costa del Sol and is part of the Axarquía region.
History: The village has a rich history dating back to the Moorish period. The Moors founded Frigiliana in the 9th century and their cultural influences can still be felt in the architecture and ambience of the village.
White Village: Frigiliana is known for its picturesque old town, which consists of narrow streets decorated with white houses with colorful flower pots. The village has been awarded several times as one of the most beautiful villages in Spain.
Viewpoints: There are several viewpoints in Frigiliana from which you can enjoy breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea, the surrounding mountains and the surrounding countryside.
Festivals: Frigiliana is known for its traditional festivals that celebrate the village’s Moorish past. The most famous festival is the “Festival de las Tres Culturas” (Festival of the Three Cultures), which brings together Moorish, Christian and Jewish cultures.
Gastronomy: In Frigiliana you can enjoy the local Andalusian cuisine. Popular dishes include gazpacho, fried fish and migas, a traditional dish made from breadcrumbs.
Nature reserve: Near Frigiliana is the nature reserve “Sierra de Almijara, Tejeda y Alhama”, which is ideal for hiking and nature lovers. The surrounding area offers a diverse flora and fauna.
Crafts: Frigiliana is known for its handicrafts, especially for the production of ceramics. In the small workshops of the village you can buy traditional ceramic products made by local artists.
A little-known insider tip for an unforgettable Caribbean vacation is Belize. The small country on the southeastern tip of the Yucatán Peninsula attracts visitors with beautiful beaches, tropical rainforests, lush mangrove swamps, the largest cave system in Central America and the second largest coral reef on earth. About 40% of the country is protected. Belize is home to many exotic animals, such as monkeys, tapirs, crocodiles, pumas, toucans, manatees, sea turtles, etc. It is also home to the Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary, the world’s only jaguar reserve. Notable species of Belize’s flora include the black orchid, the colorful Malter finial, as well as the mahogany tree or cocoa tree, among others.
Some facts and important travel information about Belize
Belize borders Mexico to the north and Guatemala to the west and south. About 43.5% of Belizeans are mestizos, i.e. Mayan and European descent. Another part of the population, about 30%, is of African and Afro-European descent (hoop earrings). About 11.0% are Maya and 6.6% are Afro-Indians (Garifuna). The official language is English. The predominant colloquial languages are Spanish and Creole as well as the African Garifuna and various Mayan languages. The best time to visit Belize is during the dry season from February to May and during the period from December to January. In the rainy season from June to November, there are an average of 6 to 16 rainy days a month, in the form of short heavy rainfall. Isolated tropical storms can also occur during this time. Belize’s subtropical climate, with average annual temperatures of around 27° and humidity of 85%, is well suited for year-round travel. Even in winter, the average daytime temperature is still a pleasant 24°. Only in the mountainous region can the temperatures drop below 10°. A warming jacket can be quite helpful. A valid passport and proof of an onward or return ticket are required for the duration of your stay in Belize. A visa is not required when arriving as a tourist. The local currency is the Belize Dollar (BZD), the preferred means of payment of the USD. Most credit cards are accepted. For example, you can easily get cash at ATMs with Visa, Master Card, Pluscard and Cirruscard. Recommended vaccinations for a holiday in Belize are usually tetanus, hepatitis A and possibly rabies. Proof of yellow fever vaccination is not required. Belize is a relatively safe travel destination. Only in certain areas of the country is there an increased risk. Safe areas for vacationers are the islands of Ambergris and Caye Caye Caulker as well as Placencia, a popular coastal resort. In Belize City, caution is advised after dark. Visitors should then better refrain from going for walks. Before a holiday in Belize, it is also advisable to read the current travel and safety advice of the Federal Foreign Office.
Attractions in Belize
Lamanai Reserve in Orange Walk, Image: Mehdi Kasumov / shutterstock
No matter whether you want to explore historical sites, enjoy nature, be active in sports or sunbathe comfortably on the beach. There is a lot to do and see in Belize. The main attractions are certainly the Great Mayan Reef, a 298 km long barrier reef and thus the second largest barrier reef in the world. It stretches from Cancun in Mexico across the entire coast of Belize down to Honduras to the Bay Islands. Another attraction is the Cayes, 450, mangrove-covered atolls that lie on or around the reef. Off the coast of Belize is also Great Blue Hole. The blue hole measures over 300 meters in diameter and is up to 125 meters deep. The world-famous diving paradise is home to numerous animal and plant species. Among other things, tiger sharks and hammerhead sharks can also be observed here. Belize is also known for its many Mayan ruins. A total of 900 Mayan temple sites inspire countless tourists every year. The 3000-year-old Lamanai is particularly imposing. Here, visitors can admire spectacular large buildings such as the 33-metre-high pyramid, high temple (“El Castillo”), the nine-tiered Jaguar Temple or the Mask Temple. The well-preserved ruins of Altun Ha, Xunantunich or Caracol are also particularly worth seeing. Sports enthusiasts also get their money’s worth in Belize. Many popular water activities such as scuba diving, snorkeling, surfing, windsurfing, tubing, white water rafting and jet skiing are on offer. The gastronomy is also impressive. A typical Creole dinner includes rice and beans, various types of meat and salad. Furthermore, potatoes, vegetables or coleslaw. As well as fish, mussels and lobsters and some game varieties such as iguana and deer. It is served with ground cassava, cocoa and plantains. A special delicacy is Ducunu, a paste consisting of corn, fat, coconut milk and salt. On request, there is also a meat or vegetable filling. Ducunu is eaten wrapped in leaves, boiled, grilled or fried.
7 Important Information About Belize
1. Getting to Belize
Getting to Belize has become less complicated, even if there are no direct flights from Europe. Here is the most important information on how to get there:
Flights from Europe: Most flights from Europe to Belize City (Airport: Philip S. W. Goldson International Airport) are via the USA or Mexico. There are frequent transfer options in cities such as Miami, Dallas or Houston as well as in Mexico City or Cancún. The total travel time is usually between 15 and 20 hours, depending on the connection.
Entry requirements: No visa is required for German citizens for a stay of up to 30 days. A passport valid for at least six months is sufficient. If you plan to stay longer than 30 days, you must apply for a visa.
Best time to visit: The optimal time to travel to Belize is the dry season from November to May. During these months, temperatures are pleasant and rainfall is low. However, the rainy season from June to October can also have its advantages – nature shines in lush green and there are fewer tourists on the road.
2. Health and vaccinations
Before traveling to Belize, travelers should take some health precautions to minimize potential risks. Here are the most important notes:
Recommended vaccinations: In addition to the standard vaccinations such as tetanus, diphtheria and polio, travelers are recommended vaccinations against hepatitis A and B as well as typhoid. Vaccination against yellow fever is only required if you are entering from a yellow fever endemic area.
Malaria and dengue fever: Belize is a tropical country, and some regions are at risk for malaria and dengue fever. Especially in rural areas as well as in the rainy season, you should use insect repellent and wear long, light-colored clothing to protect yourself from mosquito bites. Taking a mosquito net with you can also be helpful.
Drinking water: Tap water should not be consumed in Belize. It is recommended to drink only bottled water or use filtered water to prevent gastrointestinal diseases.
3. Currency and means of payment
View of the small town of San Pedro, Image: Mr. Peter Ian / shutterstock
The official currency in Belize is the Belize dollar (BZD), which is firmly pegged to the US dollar (2 BZD = 1 USD). US dollars are easily accepted in most tourist areas.
ATMs: ATMs can be found in most cities and tourist centers, but they are often difficult to find in more remote areas. The use of international credit cards is widespread, but it is advisable to carry cash with you as well.
Credit cards and cash: Credit cards are accepted in many hotels, restaurants and shops. However, cash payment may be required on the islands and in smaller towns.
4. Language and culture
The official language in Belize is English, which often makes travel easier for German-speaking vacationers. Spanish and Kriol are also widely spoken, especially in certain ethnic groups and regions. Belize’s culture is strongly influenced by the diverse populations, including mestizos, Maya, Garifuna, and Mennonites. This diversity is reflected in the customs, cuisine and festivals of the country. Among the most famous festivals is the Garifuna Settlement Day in November, which celebrates the history and culture of the Garifuna people.
5. Sights and activities
Great Blue Hole, Image: Malikbros / shutterstock
Belize offers a wealth of sights and activities that will delight adventure seekers and nature lovers:
Great Blue Hole: The world-famous Blue Hole is a spectacular destination for divers and snorkelers. This huge underwater hole offers a unique opportunity to explore Belize’s rich marine life.
Mayan Ruins: Belize was once an important center of Mayan civilization. The impressive ruins of Caracol, Altun Ha and Xunantunich give a fascinating insight into the history of this ancient culture.
Caye Caulker and Ambergris Caye: These small islands are popular holiday destinations for beach lovers and water sports enthusiasts. The clear waters and vibrant coral reefs make them ideal locations for snorkeling and diving trips.
Jungle Hikes: Belize’s tropical rainforests are home to amazing biodiversity, including jaguars, howler monkeys, and numerous bird species. The nature reserves and national parks, such as the Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary, offer well-marked hiking trails.
6. Safety instructions
Belize is a relatively safe destination, but as with any country, travelers should take some precautions:
Theft prevention: Leave valuables in the hotel safe and watch out for pickpockets in cities and tourist areas. In rural and less touristy areas, the risk of crime is usually lower.
Road safety: Road conditions in Belize are not always optimal. Especially in the rainy season, roads can become impassable. In addition, many streets are poorly lit, which is why driving at night should be avoided as much as possible.
Natural hazards: Belize is located in a tropical area that is occasionally affected by hurricanes. Before you travel, find out about the current weather conditions and possible natural events.
7. Useful travel tips
Some additional tips can make your trip to Belize even more enjoyable:
Time offset: Belize is in the UTC-6 time zone. There is no change to daylight saving time.
Power connections: Belize uses type A and B sockets, the voltage is 110 volts. An adapter is necessary.
Internet and SIM cards: Wi-Fi is available in most hotels and cafes. For mobile data, local SIM cards are recommended, which are available at airports and in larger cities.
The US state of Montana is a prime destination for those who love nature and space. Montana is located in the far north of the USA and borders Canada there. The name of the state is derived from the Latin word montanus, which translates into the English language means mountain. Anyone who knows this will not be surprised that the fourth largest of the American states is crisscrossed by sweeping mountain ranges. Montana’s most popular tourist destination is, not surprisingly, Glacier National Park, which borders Canada .
There is a sprawling nature reserve located in the middle of the Rocky Mountains. There alone, nature lovers can easily spend a holiday of several weeks that will not be boring. But Montana has even more to offer. In the south of the extremely sparsely populated US state with just over one million inhabitants, there is another of the most famous national parks in the USA: Yellowstone National Park. Yellowstone National Park is not only a UNESCO World Heritage Site, but also boasts an exciting population of wildlife such as grizzly bears and bison. Montana’s highlights are complemented by the Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument, one of the most historic places in the entire USA. Here, visitors can learn a lot about the Native Americans, the Indians.
Experience the frosty magic of Glacier National Park
Glacier National Park, Image: Bill45 / shutterstock
Glacier National Park overwhelms everyone who visits it. On an area of around 4,047 square kilometers, there are a total of 175 mountain peaks and 25 glaciers. In addition, there are no less than 762 lakes. The national park can be visited all year round, but in winter the roads that crisscross Glacier National Park can be snowy or frozen, which requires drivers to have good driving skills to be able to move around safely.
In winter, you are rewarded for this by fairytale snow and ice landscapes, where you can go snowshoeing, for example. Cross-country ski trails are also groomed then. The very daring can try their hand at ice climbing here in the winter months and explore the diverse mountain landscape of the Glacier National Park up close. From June to September, all roads in the park are largely free of snow and therefore easily passable. These are excellent conditions for embarking on one or the other hiking adventure through exciting flora and fauna. On the way you often meet mountain goats or dockhorn sheep.
For example, you can walk around the 16-kilometer-wide Lake McDonald, which is the largest lake in the national park, on the Trail of the Cedars. If you prefer to move on the water, you can cross the lake by boat. No matter what you choose, you always have an excellent view of the mighty glaciers surrounding the lake with all possible options. The Glacier National Park can also be crossed by train. A multi-day train journey not only takes tourists to Canada, but also allows them to visit all the vegetation levels of the Glacier National Park from the train’s panoramic carriages.
Explore forests, wilderness and wildlife in Yellowstone National Park
A herd of bison moves quickly along the Firehole River, Image: YegoroV / shutterstock
If you want to explore Yellowstone National Park, which stretches over several US states, on Montana territory, choose one of the two park entrances to the north. The small town of Livingston has been the most popular entry point into Yellowstone National Park since the 19th century. On the way to the park, it is worth taking a detour to the Railway Museum of the City of Livingston. Another access point to the park is near the even smaller town of Gardiner, which is crossed by the 1,114-kilometer-long Yellowstone River. From Gardiner, you enter the park through the massive Roosevelt archway. From there, it’s on to the Grizzly and Wolf Discovery Center, where you can get up close and personal with bears and wolves. The Bear Paw Trail invites you to hike through the park’s wooded landscape. Hiking is very popular in Yellowstone National Park anyway. About 2,000 kilometers of designated hiking trails can be hiked in the almost 9,000 square kilometer national park.
Visiting the Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument
In addition to breathtaking scenery, the US state of Montana also has a rich history. This was marked by numerous conflicts between the white settlers from Europe and the North American indigenous population, the Indians. The territory of today’s US state of Montana was once home to 13 different Indian tribes. The most famous Indians among them are the members of the Sioux tribe. Even today, many of the indigenous people live on Indian reservations, of which there are seven in Montana alone.
On June 25, 1876, a battle finally took place at the Little Bighorn between cavalry troops of the white settlers and the representatives of several Indian tribes. The natives were led by the Indian chiefs Sitting Bull and Crazy Horse. The fighting was about the white settlers taking over a mountain range that was considered sacred to the Indian tribes. They hoped for the financially profitable mining of mineral resources there. Since the Indians defended their territory and put up surprisingly strong resistance, many members of both sides had to lose their lives in the battle. On the Little Bighorn Battlefield, a memorial was set up soon after the battle, which now commemorates not only the white victims of the battle, as originally, but also the Indians who died in the battle in a sincere way.
As the capital of the United Kingdom of Great Britain, London is one of the most popular destinations for tourists around the world. The populous city convinces with its eventful history with its versatility and the special contrast between antiquity and modernity. Numerous sights and the English lifestyle make a city trip through London a special experience for young and old all year round.
London – A city with history
The Tower of London, Image: Alexander Chaikin / shutterstock
London is a culturally rich city whose history began around 2000 years ago with the Romans. “Londinium” was the former name given to it by the Romans around 43 AD. This date is also generally considered to be the founding year of today’s London. The people had to accept the loss of the city and so a series of ups and downs gradually began. After the reoccupation of the Anglo-Saxons, London was hit particularly hard by the plague that raged around 1665. The great fire around 1666, called “The Great Fire”, which completely destroyed more than two-thirds of the city, is also one of the historically significant events.
London’s population density grew so rapidly from the 18th century onwards that it was the largest city in the world by 1925. From the Middle Ages onwards, London developed into one of the most important trading centres in Europe . To this day, the capital of the kingdom is one of the world’s cities alongside New York, Dubai and Hong Kong due to its position in politics, industry and technology.
In addition to railways, the London Underground, which opened in 1863, is not only a practical means of transport, but also one of the popular sights. The London Underground is the oldest in the world and also has the third longest track network in the world. Transport in one of London’s well-known red double-decker buses also remains eventful. Nowadays equipped with modern equipment, the simple journey remains as exciting as a real sightseeing tour.
The Georgian architectural style, which is particularly widespread in the north and west, is one of a variety of different architectural styles in London. There are elements of the Baroque, Victorian and modern architecture, such as “The Shard”. In any case, the numerous brick and stucco buildings provide the typical English flair and the special ambience of the city.
Attractions and tourism
The many remarkable sights and attractions of the city form the basis for tourism. In addition to numerous museums such as the Science Museum or Wax Museum, magnificent sacred buildings and squares such as Trafalgar Square, London also convinces with its great potential in terms of theatre and musicals.
View of London and the Thames, Image: Angel Ching/shutterstock
Many stars are on stage in London. The royal parks and beautiful green spaces of the city are a popular place to escape the stress of everyday life and gather new strength. The famous city also offers its guests a lot of shopping opportunities for every budget with its over 30,000 shops. Whether it’s designer shops, bookstores, department stores or the many charming flea and food markets, there’s something for everyone in London. Sports and educational institutions are also an important part of the capital of the United Kingdom. The top metropolis stands for modernity, culture, versatility and that certain something!
Climatic conditions and popular travel times
England has a temperate maritime climate. With an average temperature of around 15°C to 20°C in the country, the best time to visit London is during the summer months, when temperatures can reach 30°C and there is a chance of sunny weather. London is happy to live up to its nickname, the “City of Rain”, in German “City of Rain”. Many rainy days predominate in the city, but it remains an attractive destination all year round. In winter, for example, the city enchants with many lights, figure skating attractions, festivals and its many cozy pubs and restaurants that invite you to linger and enjoy for a long time.
Culinary delights in London
The multicultural city with over 14 million inhabitants offers extensive places to stop for food and drink. In London, everyone will find what their heart desires. During a visit, however, the English specialties are also a must. The classic fish and chips, a fish fried in beer batter with wide fries, has always delighted young and old. The apple crumble, a pastry made of apples and crumb dough, is also one of England’s true delicacies. Haggis and Cornish pasty are also subject to British cuisine. In the metropolis, the meal in the rural pub and the nostalgic bar is just as attractive an experience as at the fast food stand at the market, or the haute-cuisine restaurant in the noble district.
