All about travel

The most beautiful camping destinations in Normandy

PatrickJullien

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11. January 2023

The most beautiful camping destinations in Normandy

In addition to the south of France with its numerous campsites, the Normandy coast is one of the most charming landscapes in France. The coast of Normandy is considered to be particularly rough. Normandy is located on the English Channel and has a unique nature that once attracted many artists and painters. The secluded beaches, which are particularly popular, but also the white limestone cliffs and the picturesque landscape are still a popular destination today. The villages with cobbled streets are also popular with tourists. But not only the unique nature, but also the interesting history attracts many people. Even today, the traces of the 2nd World War can be visited in the form of museums and cemeteries.

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Huttopia Calvados-Normandie

Huttopia Calvados-Normandie is located on a former castle park in the Calvados region. Surrounded by a view that is typical of the region. Cow pastures, apple trees and fields surrounded by hedges. The harvested apples are used to make the famous sparkling wine, “Route du Cidre” can be tasted. There are also some cheese shops where you can taste delicious Camembert and Livarot cheese. On the nearby beach, sports such as sailing or speed sailing can be practiced. Here it is also possible to enjoy a nice ride with a horse on the beach or in the woods.

Camping de la plage

The campsite, which is located directly on the sea, is located in Houlgate, a municipality of about 1,689 inhabitants. It is known for its very long and wide sandy beach and is located on the flower coast. The campsite is terraced. This means that everyone who spends their holidays at the campsite has a sea view. Even without a camper, a nice holiday can be spent there, because the holidaymaker can also spend the night in a shingle trailer, holiday home, mobile home, chalet or teepee.

Camping Le Cormoran

Beautiful beach in Cotentin, Image: CatherineLProd / shutterstock

Right in the heart of the Cotentin and Bessin marshes, you’ll find Camping Le Cormoran. This campsite is located directly by the sea. In addition, there is an aqua park in the immediate vicinity, which is not only fun for children, and also a glass-covered indoor pool. In the petting zoo, chickens and dwarf goats can be petted. The famous World War II landing beaches, also known as Utah Beach, are within walking distance. This beach is not only beautiful, but also historically very interesting. In Cherbourg, the nuclear submarine “Le Redoutable” can also be visited. If you visit the Cité de la Mer, visitors will be introduced to the sea, because the museum revolves around life in the sea.

Camping Haliotis

Camping Haliotis is located in the bay of Mont Saint Michel and also on the banks of the Couesnon. At Camping Haliotis, a path leads past the typical salt marshes. This path leads to the bay of the monastery mountain Mont Saint Michel. In this bay you have a very nice view. There is also a lot to discover in the old town of Saint Malo. There it is only bursting with history. The city takes visitors back to the time of buccaneers and corsairs and shows the remains of a medieval castle. There are also book illuminations of monks to see there.

Camping L’Anse du Brick

Camping L’Anse du Brick is located on the Cotenin peninsula. The lighthouse of Gatteville, which is located in the immediate vicinity, gives you a good overview of the entire area. There is also an interesting planetarium here. The Ludiver Planetarium invites you to embark on a journey into space not only on rainy days. In the traditional fishing port of Saint-Vaast-la-Hougue, seafood such as mussels, scallops or oysters can be tasted, but there are also local products. At the Ravenel watermill, some local products are offered, and the watermill also offers taster courses and shows visitors how bread is baked there.

Camping Léry-Poses

If you are looking for a break in nature, you are in good hands on the picturesque banks of the Seine. On one part of the Seine, Normandy draws its loops, there are spacious pitches on a beautiful campsite, which have been separated by hedges. There is also electricity and a water connection here. It is also possible to rent a small cabin. The cabins have a pretty, covered veranda. The location of the campsite is perfect for all cyclists, as the “Seine à vélo” cycle path runs from Paris to Honfleur and Deauville. On the bike tour, the medieval town of Pont de l’Arche can be visited, as well as the nearby fortress Château Gaillard. Richard the Lionheart had this fortress converted into a fortress by 6000 men in a short time.

Camping La Forêt

Also in a loop of the Seine is Camping La Forêt. Camping La Forêt is located in the middle of the forest. The Abbey of Jumièges, is in the immediate vicinity and is only a short walk away. She has a lot to tell and through a tour with a 3D tablet, the story is brought to life here. The city of Rounen is also a good destination for explorers. It insists on a lot of historical events and the 100 towers are also waiting to be discovered. In addition, the stolen statue of Notre Dame de Barre-y-Va can be searched for on a playful treasure hunt with the help of investigator Arsène Lupiy-Vas. An exploration trip through the city of Rive-en-Seine is also worthwhile. The ride takes place in a Dyane. A Dyane is an older car, which was very popular, from the Citroën brand.

Camping Château de Martragny

Camping Château de Martragny is very idyllic. A romantic fountain, a beautiful carp pond or the view into the courtyard of the old barns. The barns and stables at the castle park are now used for Pommeau tastings. In the castle park, two hundred years of history are waiting to be explored. The tapestry of Queen Mathilde in Bayeux Cathedral is also well worth seeing.

Result

Normandy is worthwhile for anyone interested in camping. There is a lot to discover, but Normandy is also worth it to just relax and enjoy nature. The many campsites with the not boring activities invite you to visit Normandy again and again after a first visit.

What is the best way to discover Germany?

Germany

PatrickJullien

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10. January 2023

0

What is the best way to discover Germany?

Germany offers visitors from all over the world an incredible amount to see, whether picturesque cities or spectacular natural landscapes. But many people wonder what is the best way to discover and travel to all the different corners of the country. Of course, personal preference plays a very important role: some people prefer a short flight, while others prefer to explore the country leisurely by train. Due to the excellently developed infrastructure, there are numerous options, all of which have their own advantages and disadvantages.

You should inform yourself well from the beginning and make the appropriate preparations. However, this already starts with the planning of all accommodations, which it is best to book in advance. If you fall in love with a certain corner while exploring Germany, you can find attractive apartments on this site , for example, so that you can even live there long-term.

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Explore Germany by plane

Berlin, Museum Island — The Museum Island in Berlin, Image: Boris Stroujko / shutterstock

If you mainly stick to the larger cities of the country, then the domestic flight connections are the best way to cover longer distances within a very short time. The flight from Berlin to Munich takes just over an hour. In addition, of course, there is the journey to and from the respective airport, which can usually also take one to two hours. The rule is that the further the distance, the better the total flight duration scales compared to the alternatives.

Flights are no longer quite as cheap as they were a few years ago. Fuel inflation, airline bankruptcies and additional climate protection requirements have made the low-cost flights of yesteryear virtually disappear from the scene. In addition, there are often the comparatively high costs at the airport, if you want to have a bite to eat before departure. Flying is therefore now one of the more expensive options. In general, it is only recommended if there is no fast railway line or easily passable motorway.

Travelling around the country by train

If, on the other hand, you prefer to travel by train, you will get your money’s worth in Germany. The popular cities of Berlin and Munich are only 4.5 hours away from each other by train. At first glance, this seems to take much longer than the almost one-hour flight time. But on the other hand, you save a lot of important time by eliminating check-in. In addition, the main train stations of both cities are located directly in the city center, so a long journey is usually not necessary.

The other advantages of the train are obvious: the journey is more pleasant and you can see much more of the surroundings. Travelers enjoy more freedom, can move more freely and, for example, make a detour to the on-board bistro at any time. In addition, the costs are now comparatively cheap. For example, the train journey costs between 50 and 70 euros if you book early, while a flight costs an average of 100 euros. There are also often attractive discounts on train journeys, which are simply impossible for flight connections due to the high tax burden.

The bus as a cheap alternative

Dresden, Semperoper — The Semperoper in Dresden, Image: TTstudio / shutterstock

Ultimately, however, there is still an excellent road and motorway network in Germany. This can serve as a perfect complement to traveling by plane or train, also because it can sometimes be much cheaper. If you want to travel from Berlin to Munich with a provider like Flixbus, you ideally only pay 15 euros for the route. So there is a lot of potential for savings compared to the train or plane. On the other hand, the travel time on this route also increases to 7.5 hours.

Nowadays, you don’t have to do without amenities on the bus. The seats are comfortable and there is usually good Wi-Fi that allows access to the internet even on long journeys. There are power outlets to charge your phone and even a small selection of snacks and drinks. Depending on the route and coach, you will even find a toilet on board. However, this is usually only the case on longer routes with correspondingly large buses.

By car even to the most remote places

Ultimately, your own car or a fancy rental car are the best options for exploring even somewhat remote places without any problems. Especially in rural areas without a large number of tourists, there is only a limited possibility of being able to rely on public transport . In such a case, your own car can make the most of all the advantages. While it’s usually the most expensive option (if you factor in acquisition or rental costs), it also offers you the most freedom by far.

The drive from Berlin to Munich takes about 6.5 hours, but offers the advantage over the bus that you can stop at any time if necessary. Travellers can therefore stretch their legs at the many well-equipped motorway service stations in Germany without having to wait for predetermined breaks. All other destinations can also be explored at your own pace. Holidaymakers from abroad should of course inform themselves beforehand about all the general conditions on German roads.

Holidays at the most beautiful campsites in Germany

Camping

PatrickJullien

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9. January 2023

0

Holidays at the most beautiful campsites in Germany

Camping holidays are very popular. Owners of camping cars have it comparatively comfortable and can start an activity practically at any time of the year. You will not only benefit from particularly comfortable sleeping places, but also from practical showers and convenient cooking facilities. If you still want to make a cozy outdoor fire with proper firewood, you will find specially marked places for this purpose on many campsites.

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Open fires at campsites

Most campsites have specially prepared fireplaces or barbecues available. The necessary firewood, on the other hand, often has to be provided by yourself. If you budget cleverly, you have a small supply of kiln-dried logs stowed away in his caravan. With its low moisture content, this ensures that the fire burns for a long time and therefore only rarely needs to be refilled. After all, no one wants to spend an unnecessary amount of money on a few relaxing days. And the luggage will also thank you. Because the less load the car has to carry, the lower the fuel costs. But where in Germany are holiday-hungry people who are on the road with caravans and tents drawn to?

Germany has many beautiful campsites

There are some nice campsites where it is allowed to make a fire. Of course, it is important to comply with the respective regulations and only light your firewood where it is explicitly allowed. At open fireplaces, stove-ready firewood made of beech, oak, ash, alder or birch can serve excellently. Chopped firewood also fits into smaller grills and provides long-lasting heat over which meat and vegetables can be well prepared. This is especially true for kiln-dried logs, which contain no more than 18% residual moisture.

Camping in beautiful Bavaria

With our finger on the map, we move from Bavaria up to the beautiful island of Rügen. We start in Schliersee, where a popular campsite is located. Here everyday life can rest for a while and the soul can dangle. If you want, you can connect with other holidaymakers and spend a cosy evening with them around the campfire.

The Black Forest, a camper’s paradise

For all those who are planning a camping trip with their family, the campsite in the Münstertal is recommended. Here, young and old will find a place with a long tradition. For all those who want to prepare something culinary with their kiln-dried firewood, you can even buy the right barbecue food here. There is even a swimming pool and sauna on site.

Holidays in Thuringia

Thuringia is also an excellent place to camp. Located directly on a babbling stream, visitors can let their gaze wander through nature. The family-run facility offers all kinds of possibilities. If you don’t want to barbecue every day, you can find yourself in the existing restaurant and be served here.

Camping on the island of Rügen

With child, dog and cone we go to the beautiful island of Rügen. Here you will find a campsite as it is in a picture book. Away from the crowds of tourists, the visitor can enjoy peace and quiet. But the beach is not far away and the sunset can be experienced in all its glory with a cozy campfire. Again, be sure to ask about the applicable regulations before you make a fire on the campsite!

Hygiene when camping: these products should not be missing on your trip

All about travel

PatrickJullien

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9. January 2023

0

Hygiene when camping: these products should not be missing on your trip

For many people, camping means freedom and adventure. However, if you are not on a campsite with freely accessible sanitary facilities, but opt for a pitch in the great outdoors, the usual personal hygiene can bring some challenges. By the way, wild camping is not allowed in Germany, but in other holiday countries it is often different. Therefore, find out about the applicable rules in the destination before you travel. We’ll show you which hygiene products you should definitely pack and give you tips for a relaxed, clean trip .

For daily personal hygiene, washing your clothes and washing dishes, we recommend that you take the following utensils with you on your camping trip :

2-in-1 products (shampoo & shower gel)
Soap
Hand sanitizer
Toothbrush
Toothpaste
Hairbrush
Deodorant
Nail Case
Toilet paper
Dishwashing and laundry detergent
Microfiber towels (save space & dry quickly)
Feminine hygiene items
(Folding) Canisters for fresh water

Especially if you are camping outdoors, it is advisable to use biodegradable products to protect untouched nature.

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Hygiene on the campsite

Especially for adventurers with little camping experience, we recommend, for example, a campsite with sanitary facilities and washing up facilities. Compared to buying or renting a camper, a tent is cheaper in many cases and a popular alternative, especially for short stays .

In contrast to camper vans, which are usually equipped with at least one sink, you are dependent on the sanitary facilities of your campsite when camping. In addition to toilets and sinks, showers are usually also available. In addition, in most cases you will also find devices at the campsite where you can wash your dishes.

Even if the sanitary facilities are cleaned regularly, they can become contaminated more quickly , especially in the high season with an increased number of holidaymakers. Coarse dirt, such as sand on the toilet seat, can be easily removed with a damp cloth. For hygienic disinfection of the toilet seat, however, we recommend disinfectant wipes pre-soaked with alcohol. You can find these, for example, in the ARNOWA online shop for disposable medical products. When buying, look for the product property “bactericidal” in order to specifically fight bacteria during disinfection. The label “limited virucidal” shows you that the disinfectant wipes kill the most important enveloped viruses and thus reduce the risk of infection.

Furthermore, you should be careful not to walk barefoot, especially in the toilet cubicles and shower rooms. The risk of athlete’s foot infection is enormously high, especially when running on warm, damp ground. We therefore advise you to wear suitable footwear such as flip-flops or flip-flops.

If you don’t find soap in the sanitary facility, it can be useful to bring your own bar of soap on your trip. Alternatively, you can pack a small bottle of hand sanitizer . Of course, this does not replace washing your hands with soap in the long run, but it serves to protect your hygiene and ensures that your hands feel pleasantly clean.

When buying a hand sanitizer, as with disinfectant wipes, we recommend that you pay attention to the product properties “bactericidal” and “limited virucidal” in order to deactivate important germs, bacteria and viruses. If you have sensitive skin, product properties such as “dye-free” and/or “fragrance-free” are other important product features. Hand disinfectant products, which are also moisturizing, provide your hands with moisture during disinfection at the same time.

Hygiene tips for travelling in a camper van

For camping enthusiasts who do not yet have their own camper van, but still want to travel mobile, a rented van is a sought-after alternative. The equipment of a camper is usually very individual. While a sleeping accommodation, seating and a small kitchenette with sink are usually standard equipment , showers and toilets are not always found in these.

If you are on a campsite with your camper, you will of course also have the opportunity to use the sanitary facilities. If, on the other hand, you look for a place in the great outdoors, personal hygiene is more difficult.

Create water reservoirs for hygiene when camping

For daily, short personal hygiene, the sink of your camper can usually be sufficient. However, keep in mind that your water tank has a limited capacity and therefore needs to be refilled regularly with fresh water.

You should also keep the limited water availability in mind when it comes to washing clothes . If necessary, you can of course wash your T-shirt by hand, but this will consume a lot of water. Since laundromats are usually very common and can be found in almost every city, you can therefore also use a washing machine in the laundromat , especially on longer trips. If you wash your clothes in a laundromat, it is also a good idea to wash the bed linen at regular intervals for good hygiene.

If you already know in advance that you will not be able to fill up the fresh water for a long time, a folding canister with a small supply of water can help. However, you should keep in mind that a filled water canister also takes up space, which is often already scarce in a camper.

There are various options for filling your water tank, depending on the holiday region. Below is a list of places that can provide you with fresh water :

Camping: If you are staying at a campsite anyway, you can of course fill your water tank there. Otherwise, it’s often worth just asking, even if you haven’t booked a pitch. Often you can fill up your fresh water for a small amount even as a non-visitor.
Gas stations: You can ask at any gas station if you can fill up your water tank. There is usually an outdoor tap available for this purpose, to which you can attach your hose. If this is not the case, a hose can also be attached to a sink if necessary.
Service stations: Similar to petrol stations, service stations are a popular spot for obtaining fresh water.
Drinking fountain: Particularly in southern Europe, but also in numerous German cities, publicly accessible drinking fountains are now available to the population. You can’t connect a water hose here. However, if you have a foldable water canister with you, you can fill it and then transfer the water into the tank of your camper van using a funnel.
Supermarkets: Since the water from the tap in some countries contains chlorine or, in the worst case, is even contaminated, it can be advisable to buy canisters of drinking water directly in the supermarket. Therefore, be sure to find out about the drinking water quality in the destination region before you start your trip.

Save water on your camping trip

Despite having a freshly refilled tank, it may be necessary to save water on your trip. However, since good personal hygiene contributes to your own well-being, we will introduce you to some shower options if you do not have public sanitary facilities available.

Showers in swimming pools, rest stops or at freely accessible beach showers
Laundry in the sea, lake or river
Use of a mobile camping shower
Short shower with water from a canister

For brushing your teeth or for the most necessary body washing , the sinks in gas stations or rest stops are available to you. In addition, it can be helpful to use hand disinfectant gel regularly, e.g. if there is no possibility of washing hands in sight. However, you should make up for this with soap as soon as you can.

Another difficulty on the trip with the camper van can be the lack of a toilet . It would be advisable to look in advance on the planned route for opportunities to go to the toilet. In addition to rest stops, which often offer toilets for their customers, you can also visit restaurants, cafés or public toilets.

In addition, there is also the possibility of a mobile camping toilet. However, keep in mind that this requires additional storage space and must be emptied regularly . In most cases, these are so-called cassette toilets. You will find stations for emptying primarily at campsites. Here, too, it can be helpful if you get an overview of the disposal stations in your area beforehand. To empty it, you can remove the toilet from the device and drain the waste water at the disposal station. To protect yourself from faeces, viruses, bacteria and other pathogens , it is recommended to wear disposable gloves . You will also find a large selection of reliable disposable products in the ARNOWA online shop. Whether you choose nitrile, latex or vinyl gloves is up to your personal preference. While nitrile gloves are among the all-rounders among disposable gloves, latex gloves score with a high grip. Vinyl gloves, on the other hand, are particularly soft and enable a high tactile sensitivity just like the other two glove materials.

Tip: You should also keep disposable gloves on for the subsequent cleaning of the toilet!

Cleanliness in the motorhome with its own wet room

Compared to the camper van, motorhomes usually have their own wet room, i.e. a small washroom, including a permanently integrated toilet. This can be particularly advantageous if you opt for a secluded pitch in nature or if you are travelling longer distances where there are no freely accessible sanitary facilities.

Since both the fresh water and waste water tanks of a motorhome have a larger capacity than that of a camper, you can usually get there longer with your water supply.

Nevertheless, it is also necessary here that the toilet and the waste water tank, which fills with shower and flush water, are emptied and cleaned regularly. While with mobile toilets the container is taken away and emptied at a disposal station , larger motorhomes in particular are equipped with permanently mounted toilets. These are connected to the waste water tank. In this case, you can connect the hose of the tank directly to the emptying station.

Regardless of whether you choose a camping site with sanitary facilities or a pitch in the countryside: Make sure that the water tank is sufficiently filled and get an overview of public toilets, refilling stations for fresh water and disposal stations in advance. So nothing stands in the way of your next camping adventure!

Tips for a safe holiday in Dalmatia

Croatia

PatrickJullien

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9. January 2023

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Although Croatia is a small and relatively young country that experienced the Patriotic War about 30 years ago, this Adriatic country is particularly safe.

According to the Global Peace Index, Croatia is the 15th country on the list of the safest countries in the world. Various factors were taken into account, such as acts of violence, potential terrorist attacks, the number of killings, social security, etc.

So you can travel to Croatia without worries and enjoy your vacation in peace.

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Book accommodation with a verified landlord

If you have already decided on the beautiful Croatian region of Dalmatia and want to spend your vacation there, then there is only one thing left –
to rent the accommodation
! Treat yourself to a beautiful holiday home and enjoy your holiday to the fullest.

When booking a holiday, it is important to book accommodation with a verified landlord or secure websites. Because you certainly don’t want to make a long trip to find out that your accommodation is already rented to someone else.

Why
book your accommodation with MyLuxoria
to be sure that you get what you paid for. On their website, decide on a luxurious villa or a beautiful holiday home where you can enjoy a dream holiday with a beautiful panoramic view and a large outdoor pool.

Singles

If you have decided to go on holiday alone, you don’t have to worry at all. Because you will surely be warmly welcomed throughout Croatia. Women traveling alone also don’t have to worry about their safety in Croatia at all.

The locals are friendly and helpful and will always be happy to help you. Many Croatians speak English and German, so you can easily communicate with them as well.

Traffic

If you are traveling to Croatia with your own car or a rented car, be careful when driving. Do not drive too fast and above the permitted speed, because you certainly do not want to pay fines on vacation.

If you use public transport, take good care of your belongings.

Pickpocketing

On public transport, such as buses, trains or trams, you should make sure that you do not leave your belongings unguarded or walk around with an open bag when there are crowds.

Although pickpocketing is really rare in Croatia, you should be sure and not give the thieves a reason to do so.

Our tip is to leave the most important documents and the most money in your accommodation. Bring only some money to the city or the beach, which you need for coffee or lunch, for example. On the beach, you should also take good care of your belongings and close all your bags.

Result

Although small, the whole of Croatia is a safe country where you can walk carefree even at night. Even the children and young people use public transport and can come home alone without fear.

Croatia is therefore also well suited for all solo travelers, especially for women.

Since some regions, such as
Dalmatia
, are quite popular and many tourists sometimes create crowds in the city center or on the beach, it is always good to take care of your belongings and money.

Frankfurt Regional Court overturns Ryanair conditions

All about travel

PatrickJullien

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8. January 2023

0

Frankfurt Regional Court overturns Ryanair conditions

The German Regional Court of Frankfurt has overturned Ryanair’s controversial general terms and conditions, thus facilitating passengers’ compensation claims. The present case concerned the terms and conditions of the Irish low-cost airline Ryanair. For the Passenger processing and compensation the company allowed itself particularly long processing times. In addition, Ryanair wanted to exclude legal service providers from taking on customer claims. Compensation should only be paid directly to customers.

If this practice had prevailed, it would have meant the end of legal tech services for flight reimbursement. However, in the opinion of the Frankfurt Regional Court, all the criticized paragraphs in Ryanair’s terms and conditions violate the European Air Passenger Rights Regulation. The company could neither invoke Irish law, nor deny passengers what they consider to be the easiest way to compensation.

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Brief summary of the ruling

According to a decision of the Frankfurt court on September 24, 2020, passengers on board Ryanair flights can claim compensation. They do not have to accept long processing times, nor do they have to do without the help of third parties or the assignment of their claims. The terms and conditions of the Irish airline are invalid in Germany because they violate air passenger rights under EU law.

What are the chances of an appeal?

The company announced that it would have the case decided on appeal and, if necessary, go through all instances. So it remains to be seen whether the decision will hold up in the long term. However, the ECJ has ruled in many cases relating to air passenger rights in a very consumer-friendly way. The source of the complaint about the Ryanair terms and conditions is also very serious. The present lawsuit was brought by the Wettbewerbszentrale Frankfurt, which has already been successful with similar lawsuits. In any case, the conditions for a precedent in Germany are very good.

What does this mean for passengers?

The Frankfurt Regional Court has ruled that the terms and conditions do not allow Ryanair to disadvantage its customers in the implementation of EU regulations. According to EU Regulation 261, consumers can claim compensation in the event of denied boarding, flight cancellations and delays. The latest decision means that passengers have more rights when flying from or to the EU and that they can more easily claim compensation in the event of flight delays or cancellations.

What should airlines do to comply with consumer law?

Airlines have their own terms and conditions, which we often don’t read, but when we read them, our eyes glaze over. Not only do airlines offer a basic service that allows passengers to get from A to B, but they must also meet certain requirements, such as compensation and baggage loss procedures. As a consumer, you have rights, and it is important that you know what they are. Airlines need to know their obligations under European consumer law to avoid hefty fines.

Tips for dealing with airline customer service?

If you’ve ever had to contact an airline with a complaint, you know that it can be difficult and often uncomfortable. However, there are some simple steps you can take to make dealing with customer service as painless as possible. If you notice that you are being turned down by the service, you are free to seek help from an online service provider like Flugrecht.de.

8 unique destinations on the IJsselmeer

Netherlands

PatrickJullien

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6. January 2023

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The IJsselmeer or IJsselmeer in Dutch is not what the name suggests. In Dutch, the sea refers to an inland lake. This largest lake in the Netherlands was created in 1932 by the construction of the Afsluitdijk (Afsluitdijk) at the junction between the former Zuiderzee bay and the Wadden Sea (Waddenzee).

After the tides in the IJsselmeer had disappeared, land could then be extracted from the water by draining. The city of Lelystad, which was only founded in 1967, is not only a particularly beautiful example of the settlement of the polders that have been created in this way, but also one of 8 unique holiday resorts on the IJsselmeer, which promises its guests a varied and unforgettable holiday with its picturesque fishing villages, cycle paths over dams and through wide nature as well as good conditions for sailing and surfing.

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1. Lelystad

The capital of the Dutch province of Flevoland is a good starting point for those who like it varied. Whether it’s shopping at Batavia Stad Fashion Outlet, a vivid story about the draining of Flavoland and Dutch shipping, fun and thrills at Walibi Amusement Park , or watching wild horses and white-tailed eagles in Nieuw Land National Park and the Oostvaardersplassen Nature Development Area, there is something for everyone in and around Lelystad.

2. Enkhuizen

An impressive drive over the dam with water on both sides takes you from Lelystad to Enkhuizen. The small harbour town with typical Dutch flair invites you to take a relaxing walk along the canals and have a coffee in the picturesque city centre.

3. Hoorn

Historic tower Hoofttoren in the harbour of Hoorn, Image: Boris Stroujko / shutterstock

The IJsselmeer does not lead to Cape Horn, but it does lead to where the name comes from. In the 17th century, the Dutch port city of Hoorn was an important seat of the East India Company and the starting point for many of the undertakings that shaped the Dutch Golden Age. Visitors can explore this in the Westfries Museum on Roode Steen, the central town square, while the 20th century comes back to life on a small island at the harbour. The Museum van de 20e eeuw is housed in the city’s former prison.

4. Schokland

There is even more history in Schokland. Actually, one should say “on Schokland”, because this was an island before it was drained. Its shape can still be seen today, although Schokland is surrounded by land far and wide. With the designation of Schokland as a World Heritage Site, UNESCO has erected a monument to the technical masterpiece on the IJsselmeer as well as to the achievements of past cultures that lived their lives here with and in the fight against water 10,000 years ago.

5. Volendam

Volendam, IJsselmeer, — Volendam, Image: Resul Muslu / shutterstock

The quaint colorful wooden houses of the typical Dutch fishing village have made it a popular tourist magnet. Anyone who lets themselves be carried away by the cheerful hustle and bustle today has no idea of the dark history hidden behind the cheerful facades of the houses. The interactive museum Experience Volendam immerses its visitors in the isolated, Catholic world of Volendam during the heyday of Calvinism and makes the dark sides of poverty and religious zeal tangible.

6. Makkum

With all the history and culture around the IJsselmeer, you should not forget that the inland lake also offers classic bathing holidays and water sports opportunities. However, not every place actually has a beach. Makkum does. In addition, sailors, windsurfers and kitesurfers often find ideal conditions here. If you’ve had enough of the water, you can see it on a trip over the Afsluitdijk and get to the Casemate Museum with dry feet. In the former bunker complex from the Second World War, it is told how Dutch soldiers confronted the German forces in May 1940.

7. Urk

Urk also has a beach to offer, and a particularly large, child-friendly one at that. But not only that. The nearby harbour and lighthouse provide a picturesque backdrop to end the day in one of the many restaurants and cafés in the atmospheric fishing village and to realise that Urk was once an island.

8. Lemmer

Lemmer on the border with Friesland brings together all the attractions of the IJsselmeer in one place. Water lovers can enjoy the beach or sailing and surfing. If you are looking for Dutch flair, walk along the many canals that run through the town. And lovers of history and engineering will find the Wouda Pumping Station (Woudagemaal) an impressive testimony to the triumph of progress that gave rise to the IJsselmeer. The steam-powered water pumping station is the largest still functioning of its kind in the world and proves this in spectacular fashion a few times a year when it envelops the area in white steam and demonstrates how new land was wrested from the water in the twenties of the last century. Guests can take to the skies themselves on a hot air balloon ride and admire the beauty of the IJsselmeer from a bird’s eye view.

A holiday on the IJsselmeer may not be a holiday by the sea. Instead, guests bathe in a former sea beech, which has been transformed into a freshwater lake by human hands, and walk through typical Dutch fishing villages built on the former seabed. From shopping to cycling and hiking to numerous museum visits and attractions for the little ones, there are plenty of activities to suit all tastes in these eight special resorts and the neighbouring villages. Whether alone or with the whole family, Holland can be experienced in a very special way on the IJsselmeer.

Ellmau – Pure winter idyll at the foot of the Wilder Kaiser

PatrickJullien

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5. January 2023

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Ellmau – Pure winter idyll at the foot of the Wilder Kaiser

Located at the foot of the Wilder Kaiser, Ellmau is an attraction all year round. Among other things, the town in South Tyrol is also known as the filming location of the well-known TV series “Der Bergdoktor”, but also film productions such as “Ruf der Berge”, “Wilder Kaiser” and “Die Hüttenwirtin” were filmed in and around the idyllically situated mountain village. The fantastic natural scenery and the impressive panoramic view with which the village is blessed inspire visitors from all over the world.

Ellmau has long since blossomed into an attractive tourist resort with a wide range of leisure activities. Accordingly, the village is now one of the places in the Tyrolean lowlands with the most overnight guests. Guests of Ellmau particularly appreciate the wide range of sports opportunities that surround the mountains, but also the cultural offerings of the village. In addition, the traditional holiday resort is also quite suitable for all wellness fans and nature lovers who want to spend a quiet and tranquil holiday at the Wilder Kaiser.

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Skiwelt Wilder Kaiser-Brixental

Ski area Wilder Kaiser / Brixental, Image: PHG Pictures / shutterstock

The Skiwelt Wilder Kaiser-Brixental ski area is not only one of the largest, but also one of the most modern ski resorts in the world. With over 284 kilometres of groomed slopes and 21 valley runs, the ski area has a lot to offer. Ellmau is one of the 9 direct entry points of the ski area, so the place is the ideal starting point to indulge in winter sports. 90 lifts and cable cars are available, so that the peaks of the ski area can be easily reached.

But not only the slopes and valley runs of the ski area are attractive, but the ski area also offers 3 illuminated toboggan runs, so that nothing stands in the way of tobogganing pleasure. In addition, there are 81 family-run huts in the ski area, so that the next refreshment is never far away and winter sports enthusiasts can easily treat themselves to a short break. In addition, there are also 3 fun parks and several adventure slopes. In total, the slopes are spread over over 70 mountains.

Après-Ski in Ellmau

Ellmau not only convinces as a direct entry point to the ski area, but also with the corresponding supporting programme and a wonderfully relaxed atmosphere. Especially when it comes to the entertainment programme, the ski huts around Ellmau attract visitors with après-ski parties. But also in the valley there are numerous pubs, bars and discos where you can party exuberantly in the evening. The Stanglleit ́n après-ski mile in Ellmau attracts locals and guests who are in a party mood every evening. Another après-ski highlight is the Ellmau Ski Night, which takes place during the ski season. This takes place every Monday below the Marienkapelle on the Stanglleit. Visitors can expect a great atmosphere and music as well as a show worth seeing.

Relax in the winter sports paradise

Ellmau in summer, Image: travelpeter / shutterstock

But even those who like it a little more leisurely will be thrilled by Ellmau. In addition to the wellness offers of the local hotel industry, the Kaiser Bad also attracts visitors. Visitors can relax here in the pine panorama sauna as well as in a brine or herbal steam bath. Highlights such as a hay barn, a contemplation room with waterbeds or a sauna bar ensure a particularly pleasant wellness experience.

A wonderful way to enjoy the dreamlike winter landscape of the Wilder Kaiser is a contemplative horse-drawn carriage ride. Whether it’s a romantic carriage ride at dusk or a family outing in a carriage to explore the beautiful old farms and village scenes, there is no better way to move through the wintry landscape.

Of course, the snow-covered landscape also invites you to go on extended winter hikes. If you set off on foot, you can explore the region at your own pace and visit the magnificent Tyrolean churches, historic farms and museums, among other things. If you would like to explore nature off the typical tourist paths, you can also go on tour with a certified mountain guide and we will be amazed at the beautiful places to be found off the slopes.

There are also wonderful rustic huts whose beautiful sun terraces invite you to linger. Basically, there are also wonderful restaurants and rustic inns in Ellmau, so that nothing stands in the way of both a cozy family dinner and a candlelight dinner.

Ellmau for film fans

For film fans, Ellmau in Tyrol has been an attraction since the 90s at the latest. At that time, the beautiful region served as a filming location for the series “Der Bergdoktor”. Since the new edition of the series in 2008, the real place and field names have also been used, so that Ellmau became known to a wide audience along with Going, Scheffau and Söll. Many of the filming locations, such as the “Gruberhof” with its beautiful panoramic view or the “practice” of the Bergdoktor in Ellmau, can be visited without any problems. Real film and series fans will be familiar with numerous houses and squares in the region, because not only the Bergdoktor was filmed around Ellmau.

Val d ́Isere – France’s winter sports paradise

PatrickJullien

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5. January 2023

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Val d ́Isere – France’s winter sports paradise

The small village of Val d ́ Isere is located in the French Alps on the border with Italy. The mountains rise around the municipality, which not only gives winter sports enthusiasts their money’s worth, but is also often part of the Tour de France in summer.

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The municipality of Val d ́Isere

Val d ́ Isere has about 1,700 inhabitants and is located in the middle of the French Alps in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region.

The municipality is made up of two districts, Le Fornet and La Daille, and is located at an altitude of 1,850 metres. It includes the two local mountains Solaise and Bellevarde.

Together with the municipality of Tignes, Val d ́ Isere forms the Escape Killy ski area, which was named after the French Olympic champion Jean-Claude Killy.

In the centre of the village is an old baroque church and around it are traditionally built chalets. This traditional construction method has also been used in the new buildings, so that you find yourself in a real mountain village here.

In addition to its large ski area, Val d ́ Isere offers a lively centre with many cafés, boutiques, ski shops, bars and restaurants.

A free bus runs through the village, which takes guests from their apartments or hotels to the slopes and brings them back in the afternoon.

A peculiarity of the municipality is the way in which the ski slopes that are located around it converge. Each slope ends at the edge of the village, so Val d ́ Isere and the surrounding mountains act like a cauldron and people meet again and again on the slopes when they reach the bottom.

The Escape Killy ski area

The entire Escape Killy ski area offers a total of 300 kilometres of slopes and 40 lifts. Of the 300 kilometres of piste, around 150 kilometres are located around the municipality of Val d ́Isere. The ski resort with the Olympic flair is very beginner-friendly, although it is considered one of the best ski resorts in Europe.

The slopes of the ski slopes are located on the two local mountains Solaise and Bellevarde as well as the two districts. Most of the slopes are especially suitable for beginners.

As the municipality is close to the Italian border, the slopes in Fornet and Pissaillas offer a particularly beautiful view of the Haute-Maurienne region. The summit can be easily reached via the Solaise Express, the Le Fornet lift station or the chairlift to the glacier.

The highest point of Val d ́Isere is located on the local mountain Bellevarde at an altitude of 2,850 meters and is the connection to the ski area of Tignes. The triangular mountain Bellevarde offers a descent in each direction. These each have different endpoints, which guarantees a lot of variety! The slope leading east is the most difficult and should therefore only be skied by experienced skiers.

The Santos slope is classified as moderately difficult and is therefore an exception, but it is not always open due to its location. If you dare to descend in a northwesterly direction, you will be rewarded with a view of the Grande Motte glacier, Mont Blanc and Grande Casse.

Basically, the slopes in the upper part are especially suitable for beginners, while the slopes in the lower part become steeper and therefore more difficult.

If you are on skis for the first time or if you want to teach your children to ski, you should orient yourself in the direction of the local mountain Solaise. The Solaise sector is home to many beginner-friendly slopes and most of the ski schools in the region are located there.

Winter sports enthusiasts who prefer to stand on a snowboard rather than on skis can try out over 25 obstacles in the snowboard park, including rails and walls. It doesn’t matter whether you want to discover snowboarding for yourself first or are already experienced, the park is open to both beginners and professionals. If you need a break in between, you can relax with a drink in the relaxation area of the snowboard park.

Val d ́Isere with children

Val d ́Isere is considered to be particularly family-friendly and has been awarded the “Family Plus” label. Children can learn to ski in a playful way in two specially equipped children’s parks and those who prefer to go tobogganing instead of skiing can do so on the specially equipped toboggan run.

The “L’Acticross” toboggan run offers various obstacles, such as a wave run or a tunnel, which have to be overcome.

In addition, children from 18 months can be cared for in the crèche if the parents want to go to the slopes, and children from the age of 3 go to the ski kindergarten.

Away from the slopes

In addition to the slopes, Val d ́Isere offers much more. Guests can go on six hiking trails, extensive hikes or keep fit on bad days in the “Centre Aquasportif” swimming pool.

A special highlight of the village is the natural ice rink in the heart of the community. Here you can race a car or a kart over the frozen track or try out a snowmobile.
There is also a biathlon stadium in the village, which is available to the public. In addition to this stadium, cross-country skiers can look forward to six cross-country ski trails that connect directly to Val d ́Isere and thus guarantee a lot of variety.

Espace Lumiere – The ski area for the whole family

PatrickJullien

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5. January 2023

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Espace Lumiere – The ski area for the whole family

Espace Lumière is a beautiful ski resort in the heart of the French Alps, perfect for skiers of all levels. It offers a variety of slopes for beginners and advanced skiers, as well as some more difficult runs for the experts among us.

The landscape is breathtakingly beautiful and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. The ski resort is surrounded by dense forests, which offer a beautiful, snowy landscape in winter. This makes the ski area a real experience even in the run-up to Christmas.

Espace Lumière is also a perfect ski resort for the whole family. There are numerous slopes for beginners and children of all ages who want to slowly approach skiing. There are also some wide slopes that are perfect for skiers who do not yet feel confident enough to ski on the narrow, steep slopes.

Another advantage of Espace Lumière is the wide range of accommodation and restaurants. There are numerous hotels and apartments near the ski resort that are suitable for every budget. Refreshments are also catered for: there are countless restaurants and bars offering delicious, traditional dishes and drinks.

A special highlight of Espace Lumière is the wide range of après-ski activities. After a long day on the slopes, you can meet in the numerous bars and clubs where you can end the evening. Strollers will get their money’s worth in the numerous shops and shops where you can buy souvenirs and souvenirs.

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The slopes of Espace Lumière

Val d'Allos, Espace Lumiere — Ski slopes in Val d’Allos, Image: Peter Gudella / shutterstock

Espace Lumière offers a variety of slopes for skiers of all levels. There are easy, wide slopes that are perfect for beginners and children who want to approach skiing slowly. There are also intermediate slopes that are suitable for advanced skiers who want to improve their skills. And for the advanced among us, there are also some more difficult slopes that will provide a challenge.

A special highlight of Espace Lumière are the long, wide slopes, which are perfect for skiers who want to take it easy or have not yet gained so much experience. These slopes are ideal for family outings and for those who don’t feel confident enough to ski on the steep, narrow slopes where the pros frolic.

For those who like it a little more challenging, the many more difficult slopes that lead down from the peaks of the mountains are best. These slopes are suitable for experienced skiers and offer truly breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains, while at the same time demanding the full skill of the skiers.

Espace Lumière also has some freestyle areas where skiers and snowboarders can improve their skills on jumps and rails. These areas are perfect for those who like to get a little more action-packed. Freestylers of all levels will also get their money’s worth here.

Accommodations and restaurants in Espace Lumière

Espace Lumière offers a variety of accommodation and restaurants to suit all budgets. There are numerous hotels and apartments near the ski resort that offer comfortable and cozy rooms at affordable prices.

For those who like it a little more luxurious, there are also some exclusive hotels and resorts that offer even more comfort and amenities. So if you want to enjoy the good life in addition to excellent slopes, you are in good hands in the ski area.

In terms of gastronomy, Espace Lumière has a wide range of restaurants and bars offering delicious, traditional dishes and drinks. The many cafés and bistros, which are perfect for a little refreshment in between, invite you to enjoy a hot drink.

Après-ski activities in Espace Lumière

Espace Lumire also offers a variety of après-ski activities that provide the perfect end to a day on the slopes. Holidaymakers who don’t just want to chase down the routes during the day, but also want to party in the evening, will find what they are looking for, as will all those who want to spend a quiet evening in a cosy atmosphere.

For those who long for some adventure, there are also some leisure activities such as paragliding, snow tubing or ice skating. The possibility of taking part in guided snowshoe hikes and experiencing the breathtaking landscape of Espace Lumière in this way is also part of the activities offered.

Families can also take advantage of some special offers, such as pony rides or sleigh rides for children, and entertain their loved ones in this way. There are also some wellness facilities where you can relax after a busy day on the slopes.

Overall, Espace Lumière offers something for everyone. From beginners to advanced skiers, from family outings to après-ski parties. It is a beautiful ski resort that is guaranteed to provide unforgettable experiences.