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Kenya – the wild heart of Africa

PatrickJullien
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Kenya – the wild heart of Africa

If you think of holidays in Africa, Kenya is usually among the top travel destinations. The country between mountains, savannah and ocean is versatile, adventurous and has a variety of experiences and impressions in store for its visitors. The nature here is more diverse than in almost any other place in the world and the inhabitants are open, warm and hospitable. Kenya has been an independent country from Great Britain since 1963 and is now home to around 47 million people. The airport through which most tourists reach the country is located in the capital Nairobi. Occasionally, there are also direct flights from Germany to Mombasa on the Indian Ocean.

The Masai Mara National Park – a paradise spared from poachers

Located in southern Kenya, Maisai Mara National Park embodies everything you imagine Africa to be. On 1500 square kilometers, you will find one of the most animal-rich and scenic areas in the country. The Masai Mara National Park consists mainly of savannah, which is crossed by so-called inselbergs. In this national park, visitors can get up close and personal with native species such as leopards, rhinos, lions, buffaloes, and elephants. It is best to plan your visit to the Masai Mara National Park between July and September, as the animals then make their journey from the north of the park to the south and can be observed excellently at the waterholes along the way.

Nairobi – the vibrant capital of Kenya

Zebras Masai Mara
Zebras in Masai Mara National Park, Image: travelview / shutterstock

Even though Kenya is largely known for its stunning wildlife and scenery, the capital city of Nairobi is well worth a visit. This is where most tourists end up anyway and on a tour of the city there are many exciting places to discover and interesting facts about the country and its people. Nairobi is a vibrant city with over 3 million inhabitants and is also correspondingly varied for its visitors.

A visit to the Kenyan National Museum is particularly worthwhile. An impressive variety of cultural and natural history exhibits as well as Kenyan art are displayed here.
Another special attraction of the city is without question the Nairobi National Park. Just 7 kilometres from the centre of the city, this national park is separated from Nairobi by a fence and is home to lions, ostriches and hippos. The park specialises in endangered species and is one of the last refuges for the highly endangered black rhinoceros.

Amboseli National Park – Refuge for Elephants

Kenya, Masai Mara
Masai Mara National Park, Image: Andre Marais / shutterstock

The oldest national park in Kenya, the Amboseli National Park is also one of the largest protected areas in the country with an extension of 390 square kilometers. Its stunning scenery is overlooked by the backdrop of the Kilimanjaro massif, and thanks to the tireless conservation efforts of the local Masai, this national park has been largely spared from poachers. That’s why visitors to Amboseli National Park will find a unique biodiversity. One of the highlights of the park is an impressive elephant population of over 800 individuals that roam the park in small groups.

Lake Nakuru National Park – breathtaking lake scenery

Lake Bogoria Kenya
Flamingos in Lake Bogoria National Park, Image: pornpoj / shutterstock

Lake Nakuru National Park covers an area of 188 square kilometers around the shores of Lake Nakuru and is one of the most visited national parks in Kenya after the Masai Mara. The center of the park is Lake Nakuru itself, which is only deeper than 4 meters in a few places and is therefore one of the shallowest waters of its size. Another special feature of the park is the almost endless flocks of flamingos that populate the lake’s shores. Over 4 million of the colorful birds live here and are the park’s landmark. In addition to the flamingos, Lake Nakuru National Park is also one of the last refuges for the endangered black rhinos. They live here under the watchful eye of the rangers who protect them from poachers.

Beach holiday in Kenya – the most beautiful beaches

Beaches Kenya
Image: BlueOrange Studio / shutterstock

Even though most visitors come to Kenya for the safaris in the national parks, the country has a lot more to offer. The long coastline of the Indian Ocean hides some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, perfect for relaxing, sunbathing and unwinding. However, it is important to know that there are strong ebb and flow phenomena on the Kenyan coast.

If you stay in a beach hotel, you will be well informed about this, if you visit a beach on your own, it is best to communicate with the locals about the current situation. One of the most beautiful beaches in Kenya and most famous in the world is Diani Beach. It is located 25 kilometres south of the port city of Mombasa and welcomes its visitors with a 12-kilometre-long, white and fine sandy beach. The infrastructure here is very well developed and there are a large number of hotels. Especially in the south of Kenya there are countless other dream beaches, because there the coast is protected from the surf by a coral reef. The beaches on the north coast of Kenya, on the other hand, are rather wild.

Holidays in Kenya: Important information

Important telephone numbers

  • Police: 999
  • Fire brigade: 999
  • Ambulance: 999
  • German Embassy in Nairobi: +254 20 426 2100

Doctors in the most important places

  • Nairobi:
    • Dr. Markus Reichenberger: The Nairobi Hospital, +254 20 284 5000
    • Dr. Alfred Murage: Aga Khan University Hospital, +254 20 366 2000
  • Mombasa:
    • Dr. Chris Wambugu: Mombasa Hospital, +254 41 231 2191
    • Dr. Amina Abdalla: Aga Khan Hospital Mombasa, +254 41 231 3951
  • Kisumu:
    • Dr. Emmanuel Obondi: Aga Khan Hospital Kisumu, +254 57 202 8885
    • Dr. Peter Khasakhala: Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Teaching and Referral Hospital, +254 57 202 2215

Important words with translation

  • Hello – Jambo
  • Thank you – Asante
  • Please – Tafadhali
  • Yes – Ndiyo
  • No – Hapana
  • Sorry – Pole
  • Where is…? – Wapi…?
  • How much does it cost…? – At gani…?
  • Emergency – Dharura
  • Doctor – Daktari
  • Hospital – Hospitali

Holidays

  • New Year’s Day: January 1
  • Labour Day: 1 May
  • Madaraka Day: June 1
  • Mashujaa Day: October 20
  • Jamhuri Day: December 12
  • Christmas: December 25
  • Boxing Day: December 26
  • Easter Sunday and Easter Monday: variable (March/April)
  • Idd-ul-Fitr: variable (depending on the Islamic calendar)

Opening hours

  • Shops: Usually Monday to Saturday from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
  • Supermarkets: Usually daily from 8:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.
  • Restaurants: Lunch from 12:00 to 15:00, dinner from 18:00 to 22:00.
  • Banks: Monday to Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., Saturday from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.

Airport

  • Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO): In Nairobi
  • Moi International Airport (MBA): In Mombasa
  • Kisumu International Airport (KIS): In Kisumu

NUDISM

  • Not common: There are no official nudist beaches in Kenya. Nudism is not practiced and could be considered offensive.

Post / Stamps

  • Post Offices: In all major cities. Opening hours: Monday to Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Saturday from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
  • Stamps: Available at post offices and kiosks.
  • Costs for letters and postcards to Germany: Standard letter up to 20g: approx. 150 KES; Postcard: approx. 100 KES

Safety

  • Crime: Kenya has a relatively high crime rate. It is recommended to always be vigilant, especially in larger cities and tourist areas. Valuables should be kept safe.
  • Emergency number: 999

Current

  • Voltage: 240 volts
  • Sockets: Type G (British standard). Adapter required for European plugs.

Tip

  • Restaurants: 10% of the invoice amount
  • Taxis: Round up the amount
  • Hotels: $1-2 per day for cleaning staff

Customs

  • Allowances: Personal belongings are duty-free.
  • Alcohol: Maximum 1 liter of spirits or 2 liters of wine.
  • Tobacco: 200 cigarettes or 50 cigars or 250g of tobacco.
  • Other items: Value up to $500 duty-free.

Laos – A piece of original Southeast Asia

PatrickJullien
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0
Laos – A piece of original Southeast Asia

Laos – The narrow, elongated country is practically “wedged” between Thailand and Vietnam. Tourism here is not (yet) as pronounced as in most neighboring countries. One reason for this could be that Laos has no access to the sea and therefore a beach holiday is not feasible for many travellers. However, if you decide not to travel here because of this, you are missing out on a lot!

The originality of the country is what makes Laos what it is. A visit is therefore attractive, for example, for those who attach less importance to luxury hotels or other tourist amenities, but are looking for authentic Asian tranquility, courtesy and hospitality. Numerous (not overcrowded) sights and interesting regions are available and are just waiting to be explored.

Getting to Laos

Luang Prabang, Laos
Luang Prabang, Image: Tortoon / shutterstock

Laos can be easily reached by plane from several surrounding Asian countries. There are a total of four international airports in the larger cities. However, the most frequented is the airport of the capital Vientiane. Another option is to enter the country overland from one of the neighboring countries of Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia, Myanmar or China in the far north. Entry from Thailand in the form of bus transfers is particularly easy and frequently used. These can be booked in advance at many travel desks, are cheap and usually work without any problems.

Landscape and climate of the Southeast Asian country

Vang Vieng
Vang Vieng, Image: Guitar photographer / shutterstock

The topography of Laos is easy to describe. From north to south, the country is almost continuously crisscrossed by sometimes higher, sometimes flatter mountain regions. Only on the southern and southwestern border with Thailand is there a flat or lowland, which also houses the capital Vientiane.

Anyone who has already traveled to surrounding countries such as Thailand or Vietnam is familiar with the Southeast Asian climate and will not experience any surprises. The climate in Laos does not differ from the rest of the region. The months from November to about the end of March are also the best time to travel here. During this period, the rainy season is over and the hot summer months have not yet been reached. So there is a relatively pleasant climate with little rain and not too warm temperatures between about 27 and 30 degrees Celsius. In the high mountain regions, it can sometimes be relatively cool, which should be taken into account when choosing clothing.

Laos’ culture – Buddhism and above all a lot of peace and serenity

Pha That Luang
Pha That Luang, Image: SmileKorn / shutterstock

Laos is shaped by Buddhism and monks in particular enjoy the highest recognition. Visitors can experience this, for example, at one of the daily alms ceremonies, where locals kneel on the side of the road and offer food and drinks to passing monks. Just like in neighboring countries, respectful treatment of people and nature is a top priority here. However, one thing always stands out during a stay in Laos: the peace and quiet. Stress simply does not seem to be present in the way of life of the locals.

The main attractions

Patuxai, Vientiane
Patuxai, Vientiane Arc de Triomphe, Image: Mazur Travel / shutterstock

Laos offers a variety of sights in the different regions. You should take enough time to get from A to B, because the road network is sometimes poorly developed or in poor condition, which can lead to longer travel times.

A visit to Vientiane, the capital and largest city of the country, is a must, so to speak. With a population of about 350,000 and over 800,000 (in the metropolitan area), it is located directly on the border with Thailand. The historic city is the center of Laos both politically and culturally. Despite the big city, it is also very relaxed here. Scattered around the city are many buildings from the long-gone French colonial era. It is worth exploring the city by bike, stopping at the Pha Tha Luang Stupa (the country’s national symbol) or the Wat Si Saket temple, for example. The latter amazes with its large number of Buddha statues. Before heading to one of the markets or eating at a food stall in the evening, you should pay a visit to Patuxai Park and admire the Patuxai Victory Monument.

Kuang Si Waterfall
Kuang Si Waterfall, Image: Preto Perola / shutterstock

The city of Luang Prabang in the north is one of the most important hubs of the mountainous region. The city itself is very worth seeing. In particular, the old town, which has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1995. An unforgettable view can be obtained after climbing Mount Phou Si, which is located in the center of the city. From a height of 150 meters, there is a magnificent view over the city, which is especially ingenious during sunset. The area around Luang Prabang is known for its exceptionally beautiful nature. There are several waterfalls here, all of which can easily serve as a postcard motif. Among the most famous are the largest waterfall Kuang Si at 50 meters and the beautiful Tad Sae waterfall.

Wat Xieng Khuan Buddha Park
Wat Xieng Khuan Buddha Park, Image: Perfect Lazybones / shutterstock

In the far south, near the border with Cambodia, is Pakse, the third largest city in the country. Even though a visit to this city is worthwhile, the real highlight of this region is the Mekong with its islands. During a boat trip on the mighty river, you will not only discover thousands of small (partly inhabited) islands, but you can also enjoy unique nature and even see the UNESCO World Heritage Site Wat Phu (mountain temple). With a bit of luck, you can even see a few splashing dolphins here and there. Really in the very south, just before the border with Cambodia, are the two most famous and popular islands for travelers. On Don Det and Don Khon (which are connected by a bridge) you can fully enjoy the Laotian serenity paired with unique island charm, unwind and prepare for an onward journey to Cambodia, for example.

Important information about Laos

Important telephone numbers

  • Police: 191
  • Fire brigade: 190
  • Ambulance service: 195
  • German Embassy in Vientiane: +856 21 312 110

German Doctors

  • Dr. Olivier Schwab: Alliance International Medical Centre, Vientiane, +856 21 513 095
  • Dr. Stefan Gössling: Vientiane International Clinic, Vientiane, +856 21 254 833

Important words with translation

  • Hello – ສະບາຍດີ (Sabaidee)
  • Thank you – ຂອບໃຈ (Khob chai)
  • Please – ກະລຸນາ (Kaluna)
  • Yes – ແມ່ນແລ້ວ (Muen laew)
  • No – ບໍ່ (Bo)
  • Sorry – ຂໍໂທດ (Khor thoad)
  • Where is…? – … ຢູ່ໃສ? (… Yuu Sai?)
  • How much does it cost…? – ລາຄາເທົ່າໃດ? (Lahka tao dai?)
  • Emergency – ສຸກເສີນ (Sukseun)
  • Doctor – ຫມໍ (Moh)
  • Hospital – ໂຮງຫມໍ (Hong moh)

Holidays

  • New Year’s Day: January 1
  • Lao New Year (Pi Mai): April 13 to 15
  • Labour Day: 1 May
  • Boun Bang Fai (Rocket Festival): variable (May)
  • Independence Day: December 2
  • Christmas: December 25

Opening hours

  • Shops: Usually daily from 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.
  • Supermarkets: Usually daily from 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.
  • Restaurants: Lunch from 11:00 to 14:00, dinner from 18:00 to 21:00.
  • Banks: Monday to Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

Airport

  • Wattay International Airport (VTE): 3 km west of Vientiane

NUDISM

  • Not common: There are no official nudist beaches in Laos. Nudism is not practiced and could be considered offensive.

Post / Stamps

  • Post Offices: In all major cities. Opening hours: Monday to Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
  • Stamps: Available at post offices and kiosks.
  • Costs for letters and postcards to Germany: Standard letter up to 20g: approx. 15,000 LAK; Postcard: approx. 12,000 LAK

Safety

  • Crime: Laos is considered relatively safe. Observe the usual precautions as in any city.
  • Emergency number: 191 (police), 190 (fire brigade), 195 (ambulance)

Current

  • Voltage: 230 volts
  • Sockets: Type A, B, C, E and F. Adapters for European plugs recommended.

Tip

  • Not common: Tipping is not expected in Laos, but can be given for good service.

Customs

  • Allowances: Personal belongings are duty-free.
  • Alcohol: Maximum 1 liter of spirits.
  • Tobacco: 200 cigarettes or 50 cigars or 250g of tobacco.
  • Other items: Value up to $500 duty-free.

More impressions from Laos

Papua New Guinea – One of the most pristine places in the world

PatrickJullien
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0
Papua New Guinea – One of the most pristine places in the world

Papua New Guinea is the eastern part of the island of New Guinea, the second largest island in the world. The West belongs to Indonesia. In total, Papua New Guinea consists of 600 other smaller islands in addition to the main island. This includes the Bismarck Chip, New Britain and New Ireland. Papua New Guinea is above all a very natural, original island state. Steep mountain regions and active volcanoes emerge from the tropical rainforests.

Location Papua New Guinea
Image: sevenMaps7 / shutterstock

The coasts are made up of swamps and mangrove forests. The mountainous volcanic island is still a popular destination for ethnologists today: up to 1000 cultural groups cavort here. Linguistically, this region is one of the most diverse in the world, with more than 820 languages spoken in Papua New Guinea.

The country is still largely untouched and seems to be stuck in the Stone Age: In the island state, men still hunt with spears, animist cults continue to be cultivated. Tourists who just want to lie lazily on the beach should stay away from Papua New Guinea. Real explorers who are also willing to take on hardships and can do without the comforts of civilization for a few days will get their money’s worth here.

The Cities of Papua New Guinea – Points of Light within the Jungle

Tavurvur
Rabaul near the volcano Tavurvur, Image: Tetyana Dotsenko / shutterstock

The first port of call for many travelers is the capital Port Moresby. It is located on the south coast of the island state. Here you will find some hotels, restaurants and a similar city life as in Indonesia“>Indonesia. The Parliament Building in Port Moresby was inaugurated by Prince Charles in 1984 and combines elements of modern and traditional architectural styles. In the suburb of Waigani, the National Museum and Art Gallery is open to anyone interested in art and the country’s 50,000-year history.

Discover Papua New Guinea at your own risk

Image: Keith Michael Taylor / shutterstock

The cities of the country are not the main attraction, but the island, its nature and its inhabitants. After all, the majority of the population of Papua New Guinea lives in the countryside. However, the Foreign Office advises against wanting to discover the island on your own. Most of the country is untouched and does not court travelers with cheap hotels or hiking trails prepared for tourists. Travelers are best joined by a group led through the country by experienced guides. As already indicated, exploring the country can be associated with some strains. It will certainly not be a walk in the park. In addition, even though most of the inhabitants are very friendly, there have been robberies from time to time. It’s safer in a group.

Discover nature on the Kodoka Trail

Papua New Guinea
Raja Ampat, Image: Ethan Daniels / shutterstock

Port Moresby is where the Kodoka Trail begins. The 96-kilometer hiking trail takes travelers through the dense jungle and over the Owen Stanley Mountains. A good 700 bird species of the country can be seen. In addition, relics from the 2nd World War occasionally line the path: old tanks, landing craft and planes. Australia and Japan fought battles here. Other popular hiking trails would be the Kopianga Lake-Oksapmin Trail or the Black Cat Track.

An alternative is the voyage of discovery on the Sepik River. With a simple boat, you can visit the various villages of the country and marvel at the flora and fauna from the water.

The Highland tribes and their festivals

Tufi, Papua New Guinea
Traditional canoe driven by a boy in Tufi, Image: Tetyana Dotsenko / shutterstock

You really arrived in Papua New Guinea only in the highlands. This is where the original peoples of the country live, for example the Huli, also called “Wig men” because of the wigs. The highland tribes celebrate a wide variety of festivals every year. The “Sing-Sing” is the largest of them. If you find yourself in the city of Goroka in September, you can’t miss this festival. Up to 150 tribes come together at the Sing-Sing and present their folk songs. They wear the traditional clothing of their village, such as elaborately designed skirts and masks. Apart from the sing-sing, the peoples celebrate many other colourful festivals, such as dance festivals or compensation rituals, in which roast pork is eaten in an earth oven – a speciality of the country – to settle disputes.

The highlands also have natural beauties to offer. For example, the Kutubu Lake or the Wasi Waterfalls. On Mt. Wilhelm has a wonderful view of the island.

Diving in Papua New Guinea’s Coasts

Milne Bay, Papua New Guinea
Diving in Milne Bay, Image: zaferkizilkaya / shutterstock

The country is a paradise for divers. The coastal strips are lined with numerous archipelagos and reliefs. Mangroves, coral reefs and lagoons invite you to dive and swim here. Many shipwrecks are also hidden on the seabed, many of them from the 2nd World War. Papua New Guinea’s coasts should be interesting not only for divers, but also for surfers, including on the north coast of Vanimo or near Port Moresby.

Volcanoes and ash

Volcanoes shape the shape of Papua New Guinea. In the Bismarck Sea alone, divers can discover about 100 volcanoes. Rabaul, the capital of the province of East New Britain on the island of New Britain, has itself been hit several times in recent history by the nearby volcanoes Tavurvur and Vulcan. Both volcanoes are still active today. Large parts of the city are covered in ash, many of the residents had to be resettled.

More impressions Papua New Guinea

Holidays in Papua New Guinea: Important information

Important telephone numbers

  • Emergency numbers: 111 (police, fire brigade, rescue service)
  • Embassy of Germany in Port Moresby: +675 321 1022

Doctors

  • Dr. Barry Kirby: Pacific International Hospital, 3 Mile, Port Moresby, +675 323 4400
  • Dr. John Kaupa: Paradise Private Hospital, Taurama Road, Boroko, Port Moresby, +675 325 6022

Important words with translation

  • Hello – Halo
  • Thank you – Tenkyu
  • Please – Plis
  • Yes – Yes
  • No – Nogat
  • Sorry – Sori
  • Where is…? – We em…?
  • How much does it cost…? – Hamas em i kostim…?
  • Emergency – Emergensi
  • Doctor – Dokta
  • Hospital – House sik

Holidays

  • New Year’s Day: January 1
  • Good Friday: variable (March/April)
  • Easter Monday: variable (March/April)
  • Queen’s birthday: Second Monday in June
  • Independence Day: September 16
  • Christmas: December 25
  • Boxing Day: December 26

Opening hours

  • Shops: Usually Monday to Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Saturday from 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
  • Supermarkets: Usually daily from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.
  • Restaurants: Lunch from 12:00 to 14:00, dinner from 18:00 to 21:00.
  • Banks: Monday to Friday from 8:45 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

Airport

  • Jacksons International Airport (POM): In Port Moresby

NUDISM

  • Not common: There are no official nudist beaches in Papua New Guinea. Nudism is not practiced and could be considered offensive.

Post / Stamps

  • Post Offices: In all major cities. Opening hours: Monday to Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
  • Stamps: Available at post offices and kiosks.
  • Costs for letters and postcards to Germany: Standard letter up to 20g: approx. 6 PGK; Postcard: approx. 4 PGK

Safety

  • Crime: Papua New Guinea has a relatively high crime rate. It is recommended to be vigilant at all times, especially in larger cities. Valuables should be kept safe.
  • Emergency number: 111

Current

  • Voltage: 240 volts
  • Sockets: Type I (as in Australia). Adapter required for European plugs.

Tip

  • Not common: Tipping is not expected in Papua New Guinea. However, excellent service can be rewarded with a small amount.

Customs

  • Allowances: Personal belongings are duty-free.
  • Alcohol: Maximum 2 liters of spirits.
  • Tobacco: 250 cigarettes or 250g of tobacco.
  • Other items: Worth up to 1,000 PGK duty-free.

 

Okinawa / Ryukyu Islands – Holiday paradise in Japan

PatrickJullien
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0
Okinawa / Ryukyu Islands – Holiday paradise in Japan

While Europeans on the Balearic Islands or Canary Islands enjoy good offers and the summer heat year after year, the Japanese are drawn to a completely different group of islands. The Okinawa Islands are not only the vacation paradise of the Japanese population, they have also become an insider tip for Western vacationers in recent years. Here, the opportunity for a beach holiday meets the typical Japanese culture that is praised in so many places in Western Europe. By the way, the Ryukyu Islands (Ryūkyū) get their name from a part of Japanese history that has left its mark everywhere in this little paradise today.

Ryukyu Islands – the Japanese don’t know this name

What the European gets advertised as Ryukyu Islands in some brochures or on one or the other website is usually not even a term for the Japanese. This is because the name of the archipelago is very different in modern times, and the former tribes and empires that ruled here no longer play a major role even in current Japanese culture. Therefore, these islands are usually equated with a specific name: Okinawa. It is only a part of the said archipelago, but has long since developed into the paradise par excellence for the Japanese. Here they get something like the flair of Hawaii, without having to leave their own and ancestral culture.

The problem with the name can also be found in political and diplomatic history. On the one hand, the islands have changed their names several times, and on the other hand, there is no fixed assignment which of the many small islands can be assigned to the Ryukyu archipelago at all. However, this should not stop a holidaymaker from dealing with this archipelago, after all, it stands out from the typical Japanese mainland and from the general culture of the country in general.

Over 90 percent of the inhabitants of this archipelago are located on Okinawa and accordingly a large part of the activities take place here. But that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t take a trip to the less populated islands. Here you will find not only large and small treasures of history, but also various opportunities to spend your own free time or to experience something away from the big strongholds. But what should you actually have seen on the Ryukyu Islands?

The main attractions of the Ryukyu Islands & Okinawa

Okinawa and the Ryukyu Islands break out of the well-known cliché of Japan , which is more oriented towards German temperatures and therefore has little tropical proximity. The Japanese islands are located on the edge of the climate zones and especially with the warming in recent years, Okinawa has developed into an almost subtropical paradise for vacationers from all over the world – but especially from Japan .

Ryukyu
Yaeyama Islands, Image: tororo reaction / shutterstock

On the one hand, this means that Okinawa’s many white beaches are of course the first stop for anyone dreaming of a vacation by the sea. Everywhere there are beautiful sections that are suitable for recreation or sports. The tourism industry is well developed and thus the archipelago differs significantly from the destinations in Japan, which mainly focus on a cultural holiday of the most diverse forms. But also for those who want to discover a little more, there are a wide variety of destinations.

The most important sights give a clear indication of what kind of high culture must have once ruled over the islands. This may not seem so important among all the other activities today, but all the temples and fortresses are the original heritage – from a time when the island certainly didn’t attract holidaymakers to the beaches. Here is a small list of the most important sights:

  • Shurijo Castle: One of the most important castles in the archipelago that once protected the entire region. It is now a World Heritage Site and is undoubtedly one of the most important sights.
  • Nakagusuku Castle: Another castle that has also been awarded the title of World Heritage Site and also provides a good insight into the architecture of the Japanese Middle Ages.
  • Sefa Utaki Rock Cave: Once the holiest site of the Ryukyu Kingdom, this rock cave is now open to the public.
  • The Royal Gardens of Shikinaen: These wonderful gardens extend over 25,000 square meters and not only invite you to take a long hike, but also tell a lot about the native flora and fauna.

Of course, these are just a few examples of the things you should have visited in the Ryukyu Islands. It is the mixture of traditional sights and opportunities for your very own holiday that make this area an interesting address for more and more holidaymakers. This is also evident when you take a look at the other possible activities that can be found here.

And what can you do in the Ryukyu Islands?

Shurijo Castle, Okinawa
Shurijo Castle, Image: Mix and Match Studio / shutterstock

The islands are home to one of the last rainforests in the Western Hemisphere. The forests of Yakushima may not be home to monkeys and deadly snakes, but they do contain evidence of the pristine biotope that has made these forests so special. With due respect, holidaymakers should enter it and be surprised by the beauty of nature in these forests. With a regional guide, you will also learn a thing or two about the flora and fauna of Japan, which is sometimes so different from that of the Western world.

Tours by boat are also available through the forests and landscapes of the Ryukyu Islands. Together with the appropriate expert guides on site, you can discover the various sights that nature offers in this region of Japan. The history, culture and special features of the island are told, offering a deep insight into the life that Okinawa and the other Ryukyu Islands have to offer. The best way to finish is of course in a regional restaurant, where you get to see a little more of the culinary idiosyncrasies. Either way, the Ryukyu Islands offer every holidaymaker the right amount of culture and relaxation – whatever the people in the region are looking for at that very moment.

 

Holidays in Okinawa: Important information

Important telephone numbers

  • Emergency numbers: 110 (police), 119 (fire and rescue service)
  • German Embassy in Tokyo: +81 3-5791-7700
  • German Consulate in Osaka: +81 6-6440-5070

Doctors

  • Dr. Kazuya Nishizawa: Nishizawa Clinic, 1-9-1 Mihama, Chatan, Okinawa, +81 98-926-1100
  • Dr. Hidekazu Matsuo: Matsuo Clinic, 3-1-12, Uechi, Okinawa City, Okinawa, +81 98-937-7505

Important words with translation

  • Hello – こんにちは (Konnichiwa)
  • Thank You – ありがとう (Arigatou)
  • Please – お願いします (Onegaishimasu)
  • Yes – はい (Shark)
  • No – いいえ (Iie)
  • Sorry – すみません (Sumimasen)
  • Where is…? – … はどこですか？ (… wa doko desu ka?)
  • How much does it cost…? – いくらですか？ (Ikura desu ka?)
  • Emergency – 緊急 (Kinkyū)
  • Doctor – 医者 (Isha)
  • Hospital – 病院 (Byōin)

Holidays

  • New Year’s Day: January 1
  • Adult celebration: Second Monday in January
  • National holiday: February 11
  • Day of the beginning of spring: 20th or March 21
  • Green Day: 4 May
  • Children’s Day: May 5
  • Sea Day: Third Monday in July
  • Mountain Day: August 11
  • Day of the Elders: Third Monday in September
  • Day of Sportsmanship: Second Monday in October
  • Culture Day: November 3
  • Labor Day: November 23
  • Emperor’s birthday: February 23

Opening hours

  • Shops: Usually daily from 10:00 to 20:00.
  • Supermarkets: Usually daily from 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m., some 24 hours.
  • Restaurants: Lunch from 11:00 to 14:00, dinner from 17:00 to 22:00.
  • Banks: Monday to Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

Airport

  • Naha Airport (OKA): 4 km west of Naha, the capital of Okinawa

NUDISM

  • Uncommon in Japan: There are no official nudist beaches in Okinawa.

Post / Stamps

  • Post Offices (Yūbin-kyoku): In all major cities. Opening hours: Monday to Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
  • Stamps: Available at post offices, kiosks and vending machines.
  • Costs for letters and postcards to Germany: Standard letter up to 25g: approx. 110 JPY; Postcard: approx. 70 JPY

Safety

  • Crime: Okinawa is considered safe. Nevertheless, as everywhere: Pay attention to personal belongings, especially on beaches and in tourist areas.
  • Emergency number: 110 (police), 119 (fire and rescue service)

Current

  • Voltage: 100 volts
  • Sockets: Type A and B (US standard). Adapter required for European plugs.

Tip

  • Unusual: In Japan, no tip is expected. Outstanding service is taken for granted.

Customs

  • Allowances within the EU: No customs restrictions on personal belongings.
  • Alcohol: Maximum 3 bottles (760 ml each).
  • Tobacco: 400 cigarettes, 100 cigars, 500g tobacco.
  • Other items: Value up to JPY 200,000 duty-free.

Menorca – brittle beauty with mysterious relics

PatrickJullien
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Menorca – brittle beauty with mysterious relics

“Menorca resembles a huge broad bean in its outline” – the island geographer Paul Falot once jokingly remarked. We now have a picture of an island that appears with fundamentally different sides. Fjords that mill deep into the interior characterize the north. Rugged rocks plunge dramatically into the sea. Its high steep slopes defy the waves on the 220-kilometre-long coast.

The bizarre rock formations surround a series of natural harbors. However, large parts of the coast offer themselves as undeveloped natural areas. In addition to mysterious buildings of the indigenous people, sleepy settlements grow along the south coast. In the interior you will find many small towns far away from the sea.

At first, the Balearic island seems a little monotonous – almost like a fortress made of stone: dark slate, stony fields, a flat landscape without any particular heights and prickly vegetation. The first impression is deceptive. During a foray the island reveals all its beauty. Past magnificent carpets of flowers, along fragrant pine and holm oak forests, to sparkling clean farms – it soon becomes clear: Menorca is one of the most magical spots in the Mediterranean. Only 45 kilometres separate it from its somewhat cheeky sister island of Mallorca. Menorca stands out as the lovely silence.

Bengvinguts – we discover Menorca!

Menorca
Image: Kite_rin / shutterstock

Pitch-black horses and reddish-brown cows graze on lush green meadows. A feast for the eyes are the archaic-looking garden gates made of the wood of wild olive trees – bizarrely shaped by the wind. On the coasts, enchanted bathing spots are revealed. The center of the island attracts with probably the best lobster stew in the region. Gods and mythical creatures once ruled the windswept north coast and created captivating locations. On the other hand, vegetable gardens and orchids set colourful accents in the damp valley bottoms. Flower-covered snow-white holiday homes invite you to linger.

Maó appears as the dutiful and correct capital in the east, Ciutadella as the cheerful city in the west. For centuries, a competition has been smoldering between the two metropolises. The trigger was the English, who once occupied the island and made Maó the island’s capital in the course of some trade disputes. There are serious differences in the view of life as well as in the architecture. The real Ciutadella is reluctant to go to Maó. He only does this when he goes to the authorities. On the other hand, the capital’s eyebrow twitches when he takes on the notes of the western province.

However, travelers are magically drawn to both cities.

Discover the island in one day

Maó and the eastern tip – small towns and lots of untouched nature

The lively, official capital Maó should be dedicated to at least one day’s holiday. With an impressive natural harbour on the elongated harbour fjord and with the mighty fortress of Isabel II, the lively city, which is enthroned high up on the cliffs, inspires. On a tour of the harbour, visitors immerse themselves in colonial flair.

In the neighbouring town of Es Castell, the idyllic bay of Cales Fonts inspires with former boat and fishing caves, in which quaint pubs have nested. The waterfront promenade of Es Castell is lined with great restaurants. Not far away is the legendary bar Es Cau.

The fortress of Sant Felip and Fort Marlborough are particularly worth seeing.

Menorca, Ciutadella
The port of Ciutadella, Image: Jakub Skyta Photography / shutterstock

Just a few kilometres to the north is the dreamy town of Es Grau with its many old houses. At the same time, the town is the gateway to the “Albufera des Grau Nature Park” with its wetland. The Albufera Lagoon is the heart of the protected area. The largest lagoon in Menorca reaches a depth of up to 3 meters.

To the south, Sant Lluis is the perfect starting point for a fantastic coastal trip with a view of the white villages.

Cala en Porter is worth mentioning for the cave of Xoroi, which is definitely worth a visit. From the large cave there is a wonderful view of the open sea. The east side of the bay developed more and more into a tourist settlement and has lost much of its charm since then.
Close by are the prehistoric burial caves of Cales Coves. A very special destination for island explorers.

If you want to connect even more closely with the history of Menorca, follow the historic coastal path Cami de Cavalls and walk around the island.

Migjorn and the centre of the island

The centre of the island presents itself as an enchanting hilly country. Here, the small town of Alaior is enthroned on a hill and forms the starting point for journeys of discovery. The southern part of the island is called Migjorn by the locals, indicative of the south wind of the same name. On the impressive limestone plateau, the farmers have planted orchards. Orange, lemon and peach trees adorn the plateau. A small torrent ripples in the deep gorges, pristine white bays open up to the sea, the turquoise of the crystal-clear water competes with the blue of the sky, there are enchanted bathing spots everywhere, the beaches are reminiscent of the Caribbean – a dreamlike region.

Monte Toro at an altitude of 357 meters is no less inspiring. At the foot of the highest mountain on the island is the picturesque village of Es Mercadal. This is the home of the island’s winegrowers, confectioners and best chefs. At the same time, Es Mercadal is a good starting point for a trip to the Tramuntana area. Here you can find not only the best lobster stew.

Bathers appreciate the numerous water sports facilities on the wide bay of Fornells. In the north, there are also beautiful natural beaches, the sandy bay of Arenal d’en Castell and the cactus gardens of the Playas de Fornells holiday resort. Golfers will also find their place at Son Parc.

Ciutadella and the western tip

Menorca Old Town Cuitadella
Ciutadella Old Town, Image: tuulijumala / shutterstock

Like Maó, Ciutadella in the west of the island deserves an extensive visit. After a stroll through the centuries, you can enjoy the soft light of the last rays of sunshine on the honey-yellow palaces and the ochre-coloured city wall in the late afternoon.

In the immediate vicinity, it is worth visiting the prehistoric burial site “Naveta des Tudons” and visiting the quarry museum Ses Pedreres des’Hostal.
Afterwards, the beautiful unspoilt beaches of the south await.

Oneness with the sea – the most beautiful beaches on the island:
On the beaches of Son Saura, Cala en Turqueta and Cala Macarella, sun worshippers and bathers can enjoy a wonderful break.

In the north, the beaches of Cala Pregonda and Platja de Cavalleria as well as Sa Mesquid in the east of the island are inspiring.

Divers experience their paradise in the dream bay of Cal Galdana. Not far away is the village of Ferreries, home to cheese producers and shoe manufacturers. Ferreries is also the seat of the Geology Centre.

Tips for accommodation and culinary highlights in Menorca

Port Mahón is one of the best hotels in the island’s capital. The colonial-style house is located just 10 minutes from Maós city centre. From the enchanting terrace of the hotel you can not only enjoy a great breakfast. There is also a fantastic view over one of the largest natural harbours in the Mediterranean.

Casa Ládico is a charming townhouse. Built in the middle of the 19th century by a Greek merchant family, today 14 comfortable rooms of the house guarantee a wonderful stay. In the basement, there is a sauna, steam bath and whirlpool.

All kinds of delicacies:
In Ciutadella, the traditional Ca’n Moll pastry shop is a real feast for the eyes and the palate.

On the other hand, the “Posada del Toro” on Monte Tore enchants and convinces with hearty dishes in the monastery.

The very best Mediterranean dishes at the highest level are conjured up by the operators of the “Cobbler Restaurant”. The chefs, who are English by origin, have a distinct talent for pampering their guests with Mediterranean delights. The ambience is fantastic.

A great conclusion: At Cala’n Blanes, guests enter a place with cult potential. Here you can enjoy the moment with a long drink directly above the waves. When the sun sinks into the sea in the evening, you can say goodbye to Menorca in a wonderful way.

Holidays in Menorca: Important information

Important telephone numbers

  • Emergency numbers: 112 (police, fire brigade, rescue service)
  • Police (local): 091
  • Ambulance service: 061
  • German Embassy in Madrid: +34 91 557 90 00
  • Consulate in Palma de Mallorca: +34 971 707 735

German Doctors

  • Dr. Lothar Karras: Carrer de s’Arraval, 31, 07701 Maó, +34 971 352 117
  • Dr. Wolfgang Bremer: Clínica Juaneda Menorca, Carrer de l’Arbre del Paradís, 2, 07701 Maó, +34 971 480 505

Important words with translation

  • Hello – Hola
  • Thank you – Gracias
  • Please – Por favor
  • Yes – Sí
  • Nein – No
  • Sorry – Perdón
  • Where is…? – ¿Dónde está…?
  • How much does it cost…? – ¿Cuánto cuesta…?
  • Emergency – Emergencia
  • Doctor – Médico
  • Krankenhaus – Hospital

Holidays

  • New Year’s Day: January 1
  • Epiphany: January 6
  • Good Friday: variable (March/April)
  • Labour Day: 1 May
  • Assumption Day: 15 August
  • National Holiday: October 12
  • All Saints’ Day: November 1
  • Spanish Constitution Day: December 6
  • Christmas: December 25

Opening hours

  • Shops: Usually Monday to Saturday from 9:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. and from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Many shops close at noon for a siesta.
  • Supermarkets: Mostly from 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m., even on Sundays.
  • Restaurants: Lunch from 13:00 to 15:30, dinner from 20:00 to 23:00.
  • Banks: Monday to Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

Airport

  • Menorca Airport (Aeroport de Menorca): 8 km southwest of Maó, IATA code: MAH

NUDISM

  • Official nudist beaches: Playa de Son Bou, Playa de Binigaus

Post / Stamps

  • Post offices (Correos): In all major towns. Opening hours: Monday to Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., Saturday from 9:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
  • Stamps: Available at post offices, tobacconists (estancos) and kiosks.

Safety

  • Crime: Menorca is considered safe. Nevertheless, as everywhere: Pay attention to personal belongings, especially on beaches and in tourist areas.
  • Emergency number: 112

Current

  • Voltage: 230 volts
  • Sockets: Type F (as in Germany)

Tip

  • Restaurants: 5-10% of the invoice amount
  • Taxis: Round up the amount
  • 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.

Tips for your trip on the Camino de Santiago

PatrickJullien
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Tips for your trip on the Camino de Santiago

The Camino de Santiago, one of the most famous pilgrimage routes, attracts countless people from all nations every year. The trail inspires with its impressive landscape, the high level of individuality and, of course, the exciting history all along the line. It is not without reason that more than 446,000 people made pilgrimages on the Way of St. James in 2023, almost 200,000 of them from Spain alone. The path is enjoying increasing popularity, as the sharply increasing number of visitors shows. But it is precisely on this complex journey that adequate preparation is important. For this purpose, we give the right tips and tricks so that this special type of hiking tour can be a real success.

Plan the right route for your project

Did you know that there is no fixed route for the Camino de Santiago? This is shown by the following Spanish quote: “El camino comienza en su casa” (The path starts in your house). This comes from Spaniards as an answer to the question of where the Way of St. James begins. The destination is always identical in the form of the tomb of the Apostle James in Santiago de Compostela, but in the meantime many different routes have emerged. When planning and choosing the route, it depends above all on individual taste. For example, there is the Portuguese Way of St. James along the coast, which can be walked from Porto and guarantees an impressive view of the sea and many sights. The Portuguese coastal route of the Way of St. James is considered a particularly beautiful section, but it is definitely worth a visit. Our tip: Before planning, take your time and calm, compare the different stages and routes to plan a very special trip on the Camino de Santiago.

Packing effectively for a relaxed pilgrimage

When it comes to pilgrimage on the Camino de Santiago, less is more. Because with an efficiently packed backpack, you can travel relaxed and avoid overloading. Make sure you have comfortable shoes, suitable functional underwear and think about weather protection. An extensive supply of clothes is not necessary, as most hostels allow washing directly on site. The medicine cabinet for the hike includes blister plasters, skin and sunscreen. Modern technology does not necessarily have to be included. In most cases, a simple map is sufficient to reliably estimate distances. In case of emergency, however, a smartphone should of course still be at hand. Many hikers consciously use the journey on the Way of St. James to get away from the stress of everyday life.

Preparation and essential accessories for the Camino de Santiago

When preparing, you should also consider the right time to travel. Especially in summer and on holidays, it gets crowded quickly, in the low season the adventure guarantees much more peace. In addition, you should apply for the so-called pilgrim’s passport at an early stage. During the journey, the stamps of the hostels and stages are collected in it, which serve as identification. In addition, the pass allows you to stay overnight in the special, particularly cheap hostels. And at the end of the trip, only with the pilgrim’s passport you will receive the Compostela (certificate) for completing the Camino de Santiago.

What makes the perfect travel bag?

PatrickJullien
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What makes the perfect travel bag?

If you are looking for a new travel bag, you often resolve to pay attention to “everything”. But what does this “everything” actually mean? And what factors become important when it comes to creating the basis for more comfort with the right piece of luggage?

What is certain is that the demands around everyday objects of this kind have changed significantly over time. And it is certainly due to the high demand, among other things, that more and more manufacturers are trying to stand out from the rest of the competition.

Last but not least, it is personal taste that decides whether a piece of luggage really fits 100 percent. With the following tips, the available selection can often be narrowed down a little more.

Detail No. 1: A fair price

A look at the pricing of many manufacturers shows that a high-quality travel bag does not necessarily have to be expensive. Among other things, a Taschenkaufhaus discount code , for example, can also help to noticeably reduce the invoice amount.

Accordingly, it is definitely advisable to look for new offers at regular intervals if there is a corresponding need. Regardless of whether you choose one of the current collections or a sale offer, the probability of being able to benefit from a convincing price-performance ratio is high these days.

Detail No. 2: An appealing design

Almost everyone has individual requirements when it comes to spending the perfect holiday. Some have set themselves the goal of ensuring maximum comfort when camping, others want to enjoy the feeling of not having to worry about anything in a 5-star campsite.

However, the personal touch and the expectations associated with it also play an important role in the selection of luggage. This can be seen, among other things, with regard to the appearance of the suitcases, travel bags, etc. A look at the current trends underlines that numerous everyday helpers of this kind have become more colorful over time. Models with a high recognition value on the baggage carousel also help to identify your own accessory more quickly if necessary.

Detail No. 3: High-quality and robust materials

When you think of robust pieces of luggage, you often think of many classic outdoor experiences, such as hiking, backpacking and active holidays. It is often forgotten that it is of course also advantageous in connection with a classic package holiday to be able to rely on durable materials.

Often these are the pieces of luggage that may show one or two signs of wear over time, but are ideal for creating many positive memories of wonderful holidays.

Detail No. 4: Inner pockets for better orientation

A classic travel bag is by no means just a large main compartment. Ultimately, there are also different, smaller inside pockets that can help to find important items, such as the wallet, passport or other items, ideally quickly.

Of course, individual expectations also determine how much inner life is actually needed. However, one thing is certain: inner pockets that are not only sufficiently large, but can also be closed, can make everyday life on the go much easier.

Detail No. 5: A manageable amount of maintenance

Although travel bags are of course always functional accessories, there is of course nothing to stop these accessories from appearing in the perfect light as much as possible.

Among other things, the high-quality materials already mentioned, but also surfaces that are as smooth as possible, ensure that any dirt can be removed quickly. If you don’t want to damage the material, you should of course always follow the manufacturer’s care instructions to be on the safe side.

Additional tip: Choose travel bags suitable for the occasion

Tourists who go on vacation or city trips several times a year know that it can be difficult to focus exclusively on a single piece of luggage. Accordingly, it is a good idea to acquire a small selection of smaller travel bags and larger suitcases over time in order to ideally always be optimally prepared and to safely stow everything you need within a short time.

The dangers of UV radiation on summer holidays

PatrickJullien
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The dangers of UV radiation on summer holidays

UV radiation (ultraviolet radiation) is a form of electromagnetic radiation emitted by the sun. While it is invisible to the human eye, it can have a significant impact on health. Especially on summer vacation, when you spend a lot of time outdoors, it is important to be aware of the dangers of UV radiation and to take appropriate protective measures. In the following article, you will find information about UV radiation and how high it is in your holiday country.

Types of UV radiation

There are three main types of UV radiation:

  1. UVA: These rays penetrate deep into the skin and contribute to skin aging and the risk of skin cancer.
  2. UVB: These rays are responsible for sunburn and play a key role in the development of skin cancer.
  3. UVC: These rays are absorbed by the Earth’s atmosphere and do not reach the Earth’s surface.

Dangers of UV radiation

  1. Sunburn: Short-term overexposure to UVB rays can cause painful burns that damage the skin.
  2. Skin cancer: Long-term exposure to UV rays can lead to various forms of skin cancer, including melanoma, which is particularly dangerous.
  3. Skin aging: UVA rays accelerate the aging process of the skin, leading to wrinkles and a loss of skin elasticity.
  4. Eye damage: UV radiation can cause eye damage such as cataracts and photokeratitis (snow blindness).
  5. Immune system: Excessive UV exposure can weaken the immune system and interfere with the body’s ability to fight infection.

Protective measures

To protect yourself from the harmful effects of UV radiation, the following measures should be taken:

  • Sunscreen: Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a high sun protection factor (SPF) to block both UVA and UVB rays.
  • Clothing: Wear protective clothing, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunglasses with UV protection.
  • Shade: Seek shade, especially during peak hours of UV radiation between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
  • Self-tanner: Use self-tanners instead of sunbathing or tanning beds to achieve tanned skin.
  • Regular skin examinations: Check your skin regularly for unusual changes and consult a dermatologist if you suspect it.

UV radiation risk in different countries

High UV radiation (UV index 8-11)

  1. Africa
    • Egypt
    • Algeria
    • Botswana
    • Kenya
    • Libya
    • Madagascar
    • Morocco
    • Mauritius
    • Namibia
    • Niger
    • Nigeria
    • Seychelles
    • South Africa
    • Sudan
    • Tanzania
    • Tunisia
    • Uganda
    • Zimbabwe
  2. Asia
    • India
    • Indonesia
    • Iran
    • Israel
    • Jordan
    • Kuwait
    • Malaysia
    • Maldives
    • Oman
    • Pakistan
    • Philippines
    • Saudi Arabia
    • Sri Lanka
    • Syria
    • Thailand
    • U.A.E
    • Viet Nam
  3. Oceania
    • Australia
    • Fiji
    • New Zealand
    • Papua New Guinea
  4. South America
    • Argentina (Northern Regions)
    • Bolivia
    • Brazil
    • Chile (Northern Regions)
    • Colombia
    • Ecuador
    • Paraguay
    • Peru
    • Venezuela
  5. North America and Central America
    • Bahamas
    • Belize
    • Costa Rica
    • Cuba
    • Dominican Republic
    • El Salvador
    • Guatemala
    • Haiti
    • Honduras
    • Jamaica
    • Mexico
    • Nicaragua
    • Panama
    • USA (southern states such as Florida, Texas, Arizona)

Medium to high UV radiation (UV index 6-7)

  1. Europe
    • Greece
    • Italy
    • Portugal
    • Spain
    • Turkey
  2. Asia
    • Afghanistan
    • Armenia
    • Azerbaijan
    • Georgia
    • Kazakhstan
    • Kyrgyzstan
    • Lebanon
    • Tajikistan
    • Turkmenistan
    • Uzbekistan
  3. South America
    • Argentina (Middle Regions)
    • Chile (middle regions)
    • Uruguay
  4. North America
    • USA (Middle States)

Medium UV radiation (UV index 3-5)

  1. Europe
    • Belgium
    • Germany
    • France
    • Ireland
    • Netherlands
    • Austria
    • Switzerland
    • United Kingdom
  2. Asia
    • China
    • Japan
    • South Korea
  3. North America
    • Canada
  4. South America
    • Argentina (Southern Regions)
    • Chile (Southern Regions)

Low UV radiation (UV index 1-2)

  1. Europe
    • Denmark
    • Estonia
    • Finland
    • Iceland
    • Latvia
    • Lithuania
    • Norway
    • Sweden
  2. Asia
    • Mongolia
    • Russia (Northern Regions)
  3. North America
    • Canada (Northern Regions)
    • Greenland

Special features and exceptions

  • In countries with a large geographical extent, such as the USA, Russia and China, UV index values can vary greatly. In the southern parts of these countries, UV levels are usually higher than in the northern regions.
  • Altitude has a significant influence on the UV index. In mountainous regions such as the Andes in South America or the Himalayas in Asia, the UV index can be higher than in the lowlands.

This classification serves as a general guide. It is always advisable to consult the daily updated UV index forecasts and local weather reports to ensure the best possible protection.

Result

UV radiation poses a significant risk to health, especially during summer holidays. By observing appropriate protective measures and being aware of local UV risks, the negative effects can be minimized. Stay informed and protect yourself and your family from the harmful effects of UV radiation to enjoy a safe and healthy holiday.

Hispaniola – the second largest island in the Greater Antilles

PatrickJullien
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Hispaniola – the second largest island in the Greater Antilles

Hispaniola is the second largest island in the West Indies of the Caribbean after Cuba and is located between the Greater Antilles . It is home to the two island states of Haiti and the Dominican Republic.

Its total area is 76,500 square kilometers, of which 48,700 are in the Dominican Republic and 27,800 square kilometers in Haiti. Hispaniola is 650 kilometers long and 240 kilometers wide. It not only has the largest area of all the islands of the Antilles, but is also its most populous island with a total of more than 21 million inhabitants. The population is almost equally divided between the two island states. In the western third of Hispaniola lies Haiti and the
the remaining two-thirds area is occupied by the Dominican Republic. Due to the unequal size of the national territories, their population density differs greatly. Haiti has 352 inhabitants per square kilometre, while the Dominican Republic has only 207 inhabitants per square kilometre.

How the natives called Hispaniola

Beaches Dominican Republic
The Dominican Republic offers fantastic beaches, Image: yotily/shutterstock

The indigenous people, the Tainos, called the island Kiskeya or Ayiti, which translates as “wonderful or mountainous land” and gave rise to today’s names “Qiusqueya” and “Haiti”. The entire island was originally called Haiti, while Quisqueya is mentioned in the lyrics of the national anthem of the Dominican Republic. Christopher Columbus landed on Hispaniola in 1492 during his conquest of paradise and gave it the name La Isla Española. Your geographical location
offered the Spanish the opportunity to push ahead with their expansion into Cuba, Mexico, Panama and South America. During the colonial period, the island was politically divided into the Spanish eastern part and the French western part. The Dominican Republic emerged from the eastern part and Haiti from the western part. Hispaniola forms the archipelago of the Greater Antilles with Cuba, Jamaica and Puerto Rico , which have only a few offshore islands. The most famous on the Haitian side are the islands
Gonâve, Tortuga and in front of the territory of the Dominican Republic the island of Saona.

Hispaniola can also boast of being home to the five highest mountains in the region in its five mountain ranges. All of them are located in the Cordillera Central, which stretches from the south coast to the northwest of the island. The Yaque is 2760m high, the Loma de la Viuda 2802m, the Loma Rucilla 3039m, the Loma La Pelona 3097m and the Pico Duarte 3098m. Parallel to the Cordillera Central, the Cordillera Septentrional runs along the north coast and then falls as the Samaná Peninsula
into the Atlantic. Between Santiago and Puerto Plata, the summit of Pico Diego de Ocampo at 1249 meters is the highest point of this mountain range. The Cordillera Oriental rises to a maximum of 736 meters in the east of the Dominican Republic. To the southwest, the Sierra de Neiba extends into Haiti as Montagnes Noires. The highest point is located at 2177 meters north of Largo Enriquillo. The mountain range in the south under the names Massif de la Selle and Massif de la Hotte forms the southwestern peninsula of Haiti.

At 2715 meters, the Morne de la Salle is the highest point of this mountain massif on the Haitian side. On the Dominican side, the mountain range rises to 2368 meters. Parallel to this runs the lowlands, which are called Plaine du Cul-de-Sac in Haiti and end in the capital Port-au-Prince.

Attractions in Haiti and the Dominican Republic

In the lowlands, there are several saltwater lakes, such as the Saumatre Lagoon in Haiti and Lake Enriquillo in the Dominican Republic. Geographically, Hispaniola is located exactly on the border of the Caribbean and North American plates and is therefore often exposed to earthquakes.

The island has four different ecoregions, of which about 50 percent are covered by wet forests and penetrate mainly at lower altitudes, but also up to altitudes of 2000 meters. 20 percent of the island is made up of dry forests in the shade of the mountains in the south and west. In the rocky terrain above 850 meters there are Hispaniolian pine forests, which make up 15 percent of the vegetation. Hispaniola is home to a diverse wildlife. In addition to seabirds, flamingos, herons, hummingbirds, there are also turtles, iguanas, amphibians and many species of fish.

The island offers consistent temperatures all year round, which usually settle around 30 °C. At high altitudes, however, they can only be in the single-digit range. Due to the local trade winds, the climate is always very well tolerated and never oppressively hot. In the rainy season from June to September, tropical cyclones can occur in the region.

Sans Souci Palace Haiti, Hispaniola
The Sans-Souci Palace in Haiti, Image: CMORimages / shutterstock

The Dominican Republic in particular is one of the most popular holiday areas, as tourists can spend a fantastic Caribbean holiday there. The wonderfully sunny weather, the beautiful dream beaches with bright white sand in front of a turquoise blue sea attract holidaymakers from all over the world every year. There is also a lot to discover off the coast, as Hispaniola offers some of the most beautiful reefs in the Caribbean . Beginners have the opportunity to take diving courses and explore the underwater world of the island. If you prefer to stay on dry land, you will find the Sans Souci Palace in the mountains of Haiti, in addition to magnificent mansions of the colonial era and the rum distilleries typical of the region. Those interested in culture also have many activities on Hispaniola. Nature lovers have the opportunity to watch whales on their journey from December to March. On the Haitian side, a visit to the capital Port-au-Prince is an unforgettable highlight of your stay. The buildings of the French colonial era still enchant visitors today with their very own flair.

Hispaniola: An Overview

Location and geography Hispaniola is the second largest island in the Caribbean and is located between Cuba and Puerto Rico. It is divided into two countries: the Dominican Republic in the east and Haiti in the west. The island is known for its diverse landscape, which ranges from beautiful beaches to mountainous regions and lush rainforests.

History Hispaniola was the first island discovered by Christopher Columbus on his voyage to America. The island has a rich and complex history, marked by colonization by Spain and France, slavery, and independence movements.

Sights

Dominican Republic

  1. Punta Cana Famous for its white-sand beaches and luxurious resorts, Punta Cana is a haven for beach lovers and water sports enthusiasts.
  2. Santo Domingo The capital of the Dominican Republic and one of the oldest cities in the New World. The Colonial Zone, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is full of historic buildings and museums.
  3. Samaná A stunning area with pristine beaches, waterfalls and the chance to watch humpback whales.
  4. La Romana Home to Altos de Chavón, a recreated Mediterranean village, and the luxurious Casa de Campo Resort.

Haiti

  1. Citadelle Laferrière An impressive fortress and UNESCO World Heritage Site perched on a mountain in northern Haiti. It was built after Haiti’s independence and is a symbol of resistance.
  2. Labadee A private resort area, often visited by cruise ships, offers beautiful beaches and plenty of recreational activities.
  3. Jacmel A city with a rich history and well-preserved French colonial architecture, known for its art and cultural festivals.
  4. Port-au-Prince The capital of Haiti, where you can visit the Musée du Panthéon National Haiti and the famous Iron Market.

Activities

  • Beaches and water sports The coasts of Hispaniola offer numerous opportunities for swimming, diving, snorkeling and other water sports.
  • Hiking and nature exploration The island has several national parks and nature reserves, including Pico Duarte, the highest mountain in the Caribbean, and Los Haitises National Park.
  • Cultural experiences Visit local markets, festivals, and cultural events to experience the rich culture and heritage of both countries.

Tips for travelers

  • Best time to visit The best time to visit is from December to April, when the weather is dry and pleasant. The hurricane season lasts from June to November.
  • Safety Both countries have areas that are safe for tourists, but it is advisable to check current travel advice and take precautions before traveling.
  • Entry requirements Check out the specific visa requirements for the Dominican Republic and Haiti as they may differ.
  • Language Spanish is spoken in the Dominican Republic, while Haitian Creole and French are the main languages.

Helsingborg – pearl on the Öresund

PatrickJullien
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Helsingborg – pearl on the Öresund

Helsingborg: The city sits at the narrowest point of the Öresund, only a few minutes by ferry from Helsingør in Denmark. Wide fields with magnificent farms that merge into a beautiful woodland, a charming coastal strip with a sandy beach and many castles characterize this region. Yellow and red Swedish cottages glow in the summer sun. Helsingborg not only enjoys the reputation of being one of the most elegant and modern cities in Sweden – for many, Helsingborg is the gateway to the holiday paradise of Sweden. After the holiday paradise of Sweden and Malmö, it is the third largest city on the Swedish west coast – chic, noble and eventful.

Helsingborg – Sweden’s gateway to the continent

Known? In Helsingborg, Sweden, we set foot on the mainland soil of the Scandinavian subcontinent for the first time. The city is located at the narrowest point of the Öresund and was hotly contested due to its strategic location. The Swedes conquered Helsingborg six times, only to lose it to the Danes just as often. A few millennia ago, there was even a land connection between Skåne and Denmark, while the Baltic Sea was connected to the North Sea via what is now the Central Swedish Depression.

Helsingborg has been Swedish since 1710. In the Danish-Swedish War of 1676-1679, the city was almost completely destroyed and only developed its present townscape in the 19th century.

The Danish mainland is within reach – the view extends as far as Helsingør. Whichever route was chosen, you use the ferry between Helsingør in Denmark and Helsingborg in Sweden. These ferry translations are always an experience that evokes an atmosphere of seafaring and adventure, that creates distances and gives time to look and reflect.

In the middle of the city, the fortress tower offers a fantastic view of the Öresund and the famous Kronborg Castle. The region around Helsingborg differs little from the landscape of Denmark – it is characterized by the infinity of its forests, countless lakes and numerous river valleys. Thanks to the Öresund Bridge, Helsingborg has merged with the Danish capital Copenhagen to form an exciting metropolitan region.

Helsingborg – Highlights between garden idyll and elegance

Downtown Helsingborg
The city center of Helsingborg, Image: Viktorishy / shutterstock

At first, the brick-red icon (Kärnan) attracts everyone’s attention, later the cute and historic old town with its representative Art Nouveau and half-timbered houses inspires until finally the visitors embark on an exciting journey through time at the gates of the city in the beautiful park of Frederiksdal. The museums and gardens are definitely worth a visit.

From the ferry terminal, it is only a stone’s throw on foot to the centre, to the cool, modern waterfront, the pretty, mostly car-free, old town and the lively shopping streets.

Involuntarily, the view falls on the city’s landmark, a 35-metre-high brick tower, called Kärnan, which can be seen from afar. From the park terrace of the Kärnan you can enjoy a fantastic view of the neo-Gothic town hall and over the Öresund, which is crossed here at its narrowest point by a fleet of ferries around the clock.
Stortoget is the central square, framed by the monumental Grand Hotel and the neo-Gothic town hall. From here, the wide, curved staircase leads up to the defiant castle tower.

Southwest of Stortorg, directly at the ferry port, is the Hamntorg (harbour square) with the maritime monument – a column crowned by Mercury. At the upper end of Stortorg, Norra Storgata turns left. This is where Helsingborg’s oldest private house, the “Jakob Hansens hus” from 1641, is located. On the small square in front of it, the memorial fountain with a celestial globe commemorates the Danish astronomer Tycho Brahe.

Seaside resort flair and royal culinary delights

Helsingborg Lookout Tower
Image: Anna ART / shutterstock

Excursions to the island of Ven and the Kullaberg peninsula are worthwhile. From the island of Ven, the island’s lord and astronomer Tycho Brahe once reached for the stars. He stayed on the island for 21 years and described the history of science.

An overwhelming garden idyll is offered by Sofiero Slott Castle, located on the Öresund, in the midst of old trees. The former summer residence of Crown Prince Oskar was built in 1864. The sea of flowers of the rhododendron bushes is particularly beautiful to look at in May and June.

North of Helsingborg, the Kullaberg headland juts out into the sea like an outstretched index finger. At the far end is Northern Europe’s highest lighthouse with fantastic sea views.

In addition, the Kullen peninsula inspires with its old pottery tradition. If you like, you can watch the potters at work and take a look into the kilns. Others dedicate themselves to leisure activities such as climbing, caving, kayaking and swimming. There are beautiful beaches at Viken and Farhult.

Tips for a cosy stop

On the banks of the Öresund, north of Helsingborg, inviting villas and holiday resorts are lined up. The centre also attracts visitors with many restaurants, hotels and cosy cafés.

Skåne’s Top Ten includes the noble restaurant with a French touch among the magical culinary arts of Karl Bengtsson. The restaurant is located on Järnvasgatan in the centre of the city.

We recommend a visit to the Clarion Grand Hotel on Stortorget, just 200 metres from the main train station. In the classic hotel, everything revolves around encounters: encounters between modern design and classic interiors, between tradition and innovation, between Sweden and the continent.

Nostalgics are drawn to the original retro café “Ebbas Fik” in the style of the 1950s. In addition to cake, salad and sandwiches, the “Elvisburger” is served here.

Insider tip when visiting the Kulla Peninsula: Since 1938, the coffee house “Fickorna Lundgren” has been welcoming its guests here in a lonely wooden house with a beautiful garden.

Helsingborg: An overview

Location and geography Helsingborg is a coastal town in southern Sweden, in Skåne county. It is located directly at the narrowest point of the Öresund, opposite Helsingør in Denmark. The two cities are connected by a regular ferry service.

History Helsingborg has a long and significant history, dating back to the Middle Ages. The city was a strategic point for trade and defense. The Kärnan Fortress, an impressive tower, is a remnant of the medieval castle and a landmark of the city.

Sights

  1. Carinthia The medieval fortress tower offers a fantastic view over the city and the Øresund. The fortress was built in the 14th century and is a must-see for history buffs.
  2. Sofiero Castle and Gardens This castle, which was once a royal residence, is known for its beautiful gardens, especially the rhododendron collection. It is a perfect place for a relaxing walk.
  3. Dunkers Kulturhus A modern cultural centre that houses art galleries, a museum and a theatre. It offers a varied programme of cultural events and exhibitions.
  4. Fredriksdal Open Air Museum Here, visitors can experience life in Sweden in previous centuries. The museum includes historic buildings, gardens, and agricultural land.

Activities

  • Beaches and nature Helsingborg offers several beautiful beaches such as Tropical Beach and Fria Bad. The coastal promenade is ideal for walks and bike rides.
  • Shopping and gastronomy Downtown Helsingborg offers a variety of shopping options, from boutiques to large department stores. The city is also known for its vibrant food scene, with numerous restaurants offering Swedish and international cuisine.
  • Ferry to Helsingør A short ferry crossing takes visitors to Helsingør in Denmark, where they can visit the famous Kronborg Castle, known as Hamlet’s Castle.

Tips for travelers

  • Best time to visit The best time to visit is from May to September, when the weather is mild and pleasant. Summer is particularly lively with many festivals and events.
  • Locomotion Helsingborg is easy to explore on foot, but there is also an efficient public transport system with buses. Ferry services to Denmark are also frequent and reliable.
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