Logo Reisemagazin
Friday, March 7, 2025
Home Blog Page 104

Santa Clara – final resting place of the Comandante

0

Cuba, the island state in the Caribbean , has much more to offer than white dream beaches, bright sun and turquoise blue sea. This island captivates people because of its history. If you want to experience historic Cuba, you can hardly avoid a city.

Santa Clara was once an important scene in the struggle of the revolutionaries against the Batista regime. But this city is not only fascinating because of its reference to Che Guevara. Today it is a lively city with old colonial buildings, promenades and vibrant nightlife.

City with an important history

With around 240,000 inhabitants, Santa Clara is the capital of the province of Villa Clara and is very centrally located in the middle of the island. As a national transport hub, it is located on the western edge of the Escambray Mountains. The island’s capital Havana is about 280 kilometers from Santa Clara.

The history of the city began on July 15, 1689. At that time, the settlement of Cayo Nuevo was established, which quickly developed into an important place in Cuba . Later, the rapidly growing city was renamed Santa Clara. As early as the 19th century, it was an important point of the island in terms of transport.

During the time of the Cuban Revolution, Santa Clara played a decisive role. Batista sent an armored train with weapons and more than 300 soldiers to Santa Clara. But the guerrillas under Ernesto Che Guevara attacked the train and destroyed several meters of track with a bulldozer. The train derailed.

The weapons fell into the hands of the guerrilla fighters, the soldiers had to capitulate. Only a few days later, Che Guevara and Camilo Cienfuegos and their men attacked Batista’s soldiers and captured the city of Santa Clara. Shortly afterwards, Batista fled. Today, this event is considered the decisive moment of the triumph of the guerrillas.

Memories of the triumph of the “bearded men”

Center of Santa Clara, Cuba
Center of Santa Clara, Image: Tupungato / shutterstock

To this day, the Monumento al Tren Blindado is a witness to these events. The National Monument to the Cuban Revolution was created by José Delarra. Four of the train’s original cars are located in a park next to the tracks and can be visited. The bulldozer has also found a place here.

Historical photos, original weapons and various utensils immerse the visitor in the time of the revolution. They give an excellent picture of what happened at that time and are thus witnesses to an important event in the history of the island.

A very special monument in the west of the city is dedicated to the leader of the guerrillas. Comandante Ernesto Che Guevara presents himself mightily in the form of a six-metre-high bronze statue in the Plaza de la Revolución. Next to the imposing figure of the fighter are reliefs with different scenes of the Cuban guerrilla war.

Che Guevara was executed in Bolivia on October 9, 1967 and secretly buried. It was not until 1997 that his remains were discovered in Vallegrande and exhumed. With a state funeral, the bones were buried in the Monumento Memorial Che Guevara. The mortal remains of about 40 comrades in arms also rest here.

A museum is attached to the monument. Here, visitors can get a precise picture of the revolution and the Comandante. You can see equipment, his uniform, weapons and even his phone. It is hardly surprising that this monument is the most visited attraction on the island.

Cigars and colonial buildings

But Santa Clara is not only famous thanks to Che Guevara. This is where the smoking products for which the island state is known worldwide are produced. The Fábrica de Tabacos Constantino Pérez Carrodegua produces cigars of the brands Montecristo, Romeo y Julia and Partagá. These brands are among the best in Cuba and can be purchased after a guided tour in the small tobacco shop opposite.

A neo-Gothic building inevitably magically attracts the eyes of tourists. The Catedral Santa Clara de Asís was built in 1923 and impresses with its gigantic stained glass windows in the Art Deco style. The white statue of Mary seems almost magical.

From the outside, however, the Teatro la Caridad looks inconspicuous. It is one of the most important playhouses of the colonial era and hides its full beauty inside. The Santa Clara Libre Hotel is also of no interest because of its captivating appearance. Rather, it is the bullet holes of the machine guns, which are still present today, that attract attention.

Like other buildings worth seeing, the house is located around the famous Parque Vidal, the green center of the city. The later it gets, the livelier this city becomes and more and more locals and tourists populate the park. If you are in the mood for nightlife, Santa Clara is the place to be.

A city awakens

It’s not just the streets that come alive in the evening. On the roof terraces of the hotels, the bars open and welcome the night owls. Cabarets and dance performances provide nightly entertainment. Something special among all these clubs and bars is the Centro Cultural El Mejunje. A wide variety of events are offered in this cultural centre. With a lot of luck, you can even experience an extraordinary travesty show or Cuba’s drag queens here.

This makes Santa Clara an absolute must not only for those interested in history during a trip to Cuba. This city will amaze you and you should be careful not to lose your heart to Santa Clara.

Santiago de Cuba – second largest city in Cuba

0

Most travelers associate a visit to Cuba with the beautiful capital Havana, which is known from film and television and attracts attention with a long history. But the second largest city on the island, Santiago de Cuba, is not only a great travel destination, but also one of the most interesting regions on the Caribbean island. With the typical colonial architecture that characterizes the city to this day, it is above all an epitome of the first settlers in Cuba. In addition, an impressive cultural self-image and a vibrant nightlife have developed here in recent years.

Insider tip among tourists in Cuba

Castille del Morro, Santiago de Cuba
Castille del Morro, Image: corlaffra / shutterstock

Although Santiago de Cuba is one of the oldest cities in the country and is the second largest metropolis and at the same time the former capital of the country, it is still considered an insider tip by many tourists and is even completely unknown to many others. This may also be due to the fact that Santiago de Cuba is located far to the east of the island and most holidaymakers tend to stay in the west and around the metropolitan region of Havana. However, this also means that there are many things to discover here that package tourists would probably not experience on a short trip to Cuba in this way.

In general, a trip to Santiago de Cuba is interesting because some of the most beautiful aspects of Cuba can be combined here. On the one hand, there are the historical sights, which give a deep insight into the history of the island and the country, and on the other hand, the picturesque beaches and impressive nature into which the city seems to merge seamlessly. In addition, Santiago de Cuba is also a city culture – Cuban dance started here and spread throughout the city. The entire metropolis exudes a very youthful charm, which I also show in the various artists’ quarters and the nightlife, which could also be interesting for tourists with some highlights.

So if you dare to take the trip to Santiago de Cuba, you have a whole spectrum of possible activities at your disposal and also outside of Havana the right base to immerse yourself deeply in the culture of Cuba. The fact that Santiago de Cuba was one of the nuclei of the former revolution plays a role here.

Discover the most beautiful sights of Santiago de Cuba

Street band in Santiago de Cuba
Street band in Santiago de Cuba, Image: Ondrej Bucek / shutterstock

Santiago de Cuba can score with a variety of cultural and historical sights. The city’s flagship is clearly the cathedral, which is located in Parque Céspedes, the city’s most central square. With its blue façade, it is not only a visual highlight, but also the official landmark of the city. In general, the many places in the city are worth a trip of their own. In places such as the Plaza de Dolores or Plaza de Marte, there are many monuments and historical features that tell something about the city.

A little outside is the Castillo del Morro. The defensive structure, which was probably completed in 1700, was an important fortress in the Caribbean. Today there is a museum here that deals primarily with the early founding period of Cuba, but also deals with the revolution and its consequences in Cuba – of course with a certain coloring in the historical presentation.

If you want to learn a little more about the city and life in Santiago de Cuba, you should visit the Museo de Ambiente Histórico Cubano in the Casa de Velázquez. It deals primarily with life during the colonial era. On the other side of the city, the Museo Bacardí is located in a beautiful old building, which in turn focuses on the time before the arrival of the Spaniards.

Of course, you should also take a look at the beautiful nature. Playa de Siboney is just the right place if you just want to dive deep into the Caribbean Sea. Then there’s Parque Baconao, with beautiful hiking trails and impressive views of an unspoiled piece of Cuba.

Nightlife and gastronomy – Santiago de Cuba live and breathe

A not inconsiderable part of the fascination of Santiago de Cuba comes from the culture here. The different artists’ quarters offer markets and crafts, and many of the districts have an active nightlife with many great restaurants where you can taste the local cuisine. Especially in the best travel months, December and January, the city seems to wake up with the sunset. So if you want to discover the city with all its facets, you should definitely take the time to wander through the streets once a night.

Discover Germany by boat

0

A holiday in Germany is everything, but not boring. Many tourists are still regularly drawn abroad, but there is also a lot to discover on their own doorstep! It doesn’t even have to be a land trip. A very special highlight is to experience Germany from the sea! A contemplative break on the water helps to forget the stress of everyday life and simply arrive in the here and now. But where in Germany is such an adventure possible?

The Mecklenburg Lake District – predestined for a holiday on the water

The Mecklenburg Lake District offers fans of water holidays everything their hearts desire. Simply rent a sailboat on the Müritz and discover Germany in a whole new way. The Müritz is located between Berlin and Rostock and is one of the most important parts of the Lake District. In total, the surface has a size of 117 m², enough space for sailing and an extensive boat tour. Natural backdrops make the trip a very special spectacle.

During the summer time, the weather conditions are optimal, the wind forces are ideal for sailing. From the Müritz it is possible to travel the entire lake district. More than 1000 lakes join together here, connected by various waterways.

Beautiful Brandenburg – not only worth seeing for water tourists

With around 3000 lakes, Brandenburg also offers a paradise for sailors. If you’ve always wanted to take a different look at the state, you should definitely rent a sailboat in Brandenburg and get to know the world in a different way. Whether it’s a quiet and relaxing trip on the water or a sporty trip, the Brandenburg Water World offers the right experience for every type of sailor.

Numerous lakes and rivers are connected here, making the sailing experience an adventure. The natural landscapes invite you to moor and walk, the small harbours to go ashore. The Havel lakes in Brandenburg are also known outside the region for their diversity and variety. If you like it sporty, you will find the opportunity for a fast-paced tour on Lake Plau.

Shore excursions enrich a holiday on the water

Whether Brandenburg or the Müritz, the most beautiful sailing regions in Germany also have a lot to offer outside the water. Brandenburg, for example, offers fascinating cultural opportunities when going ashore. Tourists can sail across the water along the untouched nature and prepare their way to the mainland at the numerous anchor points. Now there are impressive castles, enchanting castles and ruins and lots of hospitality to experience.

In the evening, it is a good idea to visit one of the lovely restaurants near the shore. Here, mainly freshly caught fish is offered, but international cuisines also await the guests. Brandenburg and the Müritz are the two most important sailing areas in all of Germany. They are characterized above all by their diversity. Those who are already experienced sailors will get their money’s worth here as well as a layman. Boats can not only be rented with a license, those who do not have a driving license use a skipper! This guides the boat safely along the planned routes and makes the dream holiday a highlight.

Holidays with a motorhome: Once around the world

0

Fulfilling their big dream, treading new paths freely and independently and exploring the world: Who hasn’t felt this longing at some point? The motorhome makes it possible. With the itinerary and the targeted destinations, you can also bake “small rolls” first. Regardless of the kilometres driven and the duration, however, there are a few things to consider when planning a trip with a motorhome.

What do I have to consider when buying a motorhome?

It goes without saying that the vehicle should be roadworthy. When planning to buy a motorhome, the question arises as to whether it should be a new vehicle with individual equipment or whether a used motorhome is sufficient. Here, year-old cars or offers with a short-term registration are alternatives worth considering. Rent can be the cheaper option in individual cases. What is particularly popular with younger people is self-conversion, usually on the basis of a van. When making your decision, you should carefully weigh up the pros and cons and also keep an eye on your own wallet. After all, these can be considerable sums that you have to raise before you start.

The acquisition costs can reach dizzying heights in the upper segment: In the luxury class, you can currently get the Volkner Mobil Performance S for a rough estimate of 2.4 million dollars with appropriate special equipment. The 18-ton truck with built-in center garage offers space for a sports car. The roadster is ready for getting bread rolls or an excursion with small luggage. Of course, the flagship has extremely luxurious equipment. In this league, it goes without saying that the rolling 12-metre comfort apartment with 460 hp is equipped with every conceivable bells and whistles.

Outside the Oberliga, new motorhomes are available from about 30,000 €. These are usually basic versions that can be equipped according to needs, taste and budget. The additional costs for expansion or more powerful motorization can be considerable. At autoscout24 there is an overview of the current range of new and used motorhomes. With almost 6000 entries and many filter functions, you can select individually here. Vehicles under €20,000 usually have over 20 years and often over 200,000 kilometres under their belts. Susceptibility to repair included.

Rent a motorhome – The clever alternative

When renting a motorhome, you shouldn’t have to worry about repairs. The motorhome rental company has a transparent offer, the offers of the ADAC motorhome rental company and the Dutch provider Goboony. In the compact area, Vany Class camper vans such as VW California, Mercedes Benz Marco Polo or HymerCar Sydney are offered for €616 for 6 nights. With 2-4 beds, this is a manageable price. The compact class has driving characteristics similar to those of a passenger car and therefore does not place any special demands on the driver or driving licence class. In the premium segment of the “mobile premier class”, prices are €120 per week higher if the vehicles are suitable for winter use. 1339 € for 6 nights are due in the Premium glamour class. In addition to liability insurance, it is advisable to take out fully comprehensive and partial comprehensive insurance. Deductible insurance significantly reduces the deductible in the event of a claim.

Once the questions of the vehicle and the driving licence have been clarified and the travel route has been roughly determined, it is best to check in advance whether your identity card or passport is sufficiently valid. What are the entry requirements in the destination countries? Are visas required? Do you need an International Driver’s Permit? The Federal Foreign Office advises copying all personal documents and keeping them separately from the originals.

Depending on the destination country, it is not only advisable to have different currencies with you. Credit card acceptance may vary from country to country. That’s why you should bet on different cards. You should also be prepared in the event that you lose your means of payment. In this case, you should have the contact details of people with you who can arrange for an instant transfer. German embassies or consulates are suitable contacts whose addresses should be ready, as well as the emergency numbers of the credit institutions to block cards.

In order to be on the safe side in the event of illness, international health insurance offers good protection, especially for trips to non-European countries. It should be noted that there are special conditions for increased contributions for the USA . If repatriation to the home country is not included, a separate repatriation insurance should be taken out. The ADAC also recommends travel cancellation insurance.

Under https://www.auswaertiges-amt.de/de/ReiseUndSicherheit/reise-und-sicherheitshinweise , the Foreign Ministry offers up-to-date information on the travel destinations: from Egypt to Cyprus. You will find short and compact information on the current situation in the country, entry and customs, nature and climate, general travel information and information on health and legal peculiarities. Here you will also find information on the vaccination regulations.

The authority urgently advises foreign travelers and persons with permanent residence abroad to register with the crisis preparedness list . The crisis preparedness list ELEFAND (Electronic Registration of Germans Abroad) helps in the event of a crisis or disaster and offers support from the missions abroad.

When everything is checked and in dry cloths, you can think about packing. The climatic conditions prevailing on the trip will determine the selection of clothing. The onion skin principle has proven its worth: several items of clothing are worn on top of each other. What should not be missing on any trip are the individually required medication in sufficient quantities and medicine for emergency care.

Your doctor or pharmacist will advise you here. When prophylaxis of exposure to avoid malaria or dengue, please think of insect repellent. Take a mosquito net and long, preferably light-colored clothing. Liquid disinfectants, a sufficient supply of water and water filters are part of the basic equipment of modern nomads. Have a good trip!

Booking a holiday with Paysafecard – this is how it works

0

Most people book their trips on the Internet these days. Going to the travel agency is too arduous, especially if you live in the countryside. And often the online offers are also much cheaper. Payment is usually made by credit card, PayPal or instant bank transfer. But that’s exactly what is a problem for some. According to estimates, between 500,000 and one million people in Germany do not have a current account. And older people in particular often still lack trust in digital payment methods. They don’t want to give their account details or credit card number on a website. There is an alternative for them: With the Paysafecard, it is possible to pay for online travel bookings in cash. Here’s how it works.

What is a Paysafecard?

The Paysafecard is a kind of virtual prepaid card. In many supermarkets, drugstores and gas stations there are top-up codes for it to buy. This makes it possible to pay in cash or by Girocard. The payment data is not stored. The most well-known use is probably that you can deposit in the casino with Paysafecard . Especially casual players who only want to deposit smaller amounts like to use it. But many online shops also accept the Paysafecard. However, Paysafecard is mostly used for smaller amounts. Online travel agencies such as Expedia or Booking.com therefore do not accept this payment method. It is also usually not possible to pay with the Paysafecard at airlines and hotel chains. So if you absolutely want to pay for a trip in cash, you have to use a trick.

Book directly at TripGift

The first way to pay for a trip via Paysafecard is the TripGift platform. There it is possible to buy gift vouchers for travel. Of course, you can give them as a gift, but you can just as easily use them yourself. The site’s vouchers are valid for many airlines (e.g. Lufthansa, Air France and Turkish Airlines), hotel chains (e.g. Hilton, Mercure, Ibis), car rental companies (e.g. Sixt, Enterprise, Hertz) and various travel providers. The trip itself must then be booked directly with these companies. Currently, TripGift is the only travel platform that accepts payments via Paysafecard. The service is available in Germany as well as in most other EU countries. This method is a bit cumbersome, especially when it comes to a longer trip. However, for those who do not have their own bank account, they are a good alternative.

Top up your prepaid credit card with Paysafecard

The second way to pay for a trip by Paysafecard is the prepaid credit card from Paysafecard. It can also be topped up at the supermarket checkout . However, unlike the normal Paysafecard, it is accepted wherever Mastercard can be used. If you only ever top it up with the necessary credit, you don’t have to worry about a third party misusing the card data. The prepaid credit card makes it possible to pay in cash practically anywhere on the Internet – even on most booking platforms. However, there are also some disadvantages. On the one hand, there is an annual fee of 9.90 €. There is also a 4% fee when topping up the card. This is particularly important for larger amounts.

Paying for travel bookings with Paysafecard – Does it make sense?

For most people, it doesn’t make sense to pay for their trips with Paysafecard. This is because the procedure is cumbersome and sometimes expensive. However, for all those who want to pay in cash for important reasons, it is a valuable way to book air travel and hotel accommodation via the Internet.

One of the most impressive landscapes in Cuba – the Viñales Valley

0

Cuba is not just rum, Fidel Castro and old cars. In the interior of the island, too, you can discover wonderful areas full of fascination. The Valle de Viñales is one of the absolute sights in Cuba. The valley is by far one of the most beautiful areas on the Caribbean island. The surrealist rocky hills provide a particularly exotic flair. In Spanish, the lush green rocks are called “Mogotes”. The whole valley is a dream of jungle, palm trees and tobacco fields.

Fog, birds and UNESCO heritage

The valley is located in the Sierra de los Órgenos in the western part of Cuba. Lush and dense greenery attracts not only tourists. The valley is home to 64 species of tropical birds. This magical and unspoiled area has been under the patronage of UNESCO since 1999. It is entitled “Cultural Landscape of Humanity.” Majestic nature, romantic fog and mysterious rocks – all this makes this region the pearl of Cuba.

A variety of caves and grottos attract not only bats!

The valley is a unique attraction for tourists because of the numerous caves and secret underground passages. The largest cave, Cuevas de Santo Tomas, is definitely worth a visit. It consists of 45 km of corridors, lakes and chambers. When visiting the cave, the accompaniment of a guide is mandatory. The Indian Cave is also worth a visit. This small cave is very suitable for tours with the whole family. Even small children have fun here. There is even a bar in the cave of San-Miguel. An unforgettable, magical place.

New Year’s Eve party in Cuban

Many of the caves offer unparalleled fun. After all, who among us has ever celebrated New Year’s Eve in a cave? This adventure is possible in the valley of Viñales. Every Saturday you can also enjoy Cuban music in the caves. The show always starts with a fire show. Thrills guaranteed.

Tobacco, honey and a student of the world-famous artist Diego Rivera

Traditional country house and plantations in the Viñales Valley in Cuba, known for its mountains and tobacco
Traditional country house and plantations in the Viñales Valley in Cuba, known for its mountains and tobacco, Image: Kamira / shutterstock

The valley is famous for its tobacco cultivation. The perfect climate produces the best tobacco in the world. Here, the tobacco plant is still grown in the traditional way. The locals still work with the plough and the power of an ox. One of the outstanding product clay steps is the soaking of the tobacco leaves in rum. When rolling up the legendary cigar, local honey is used as an adhesive. This gives the tobacco its unique aroma. Of course, strict attention is paid to organic quality in all production steps. A special attraction is also a huge rock painting of gigantic proportions. The painting was commissioned by Fidel Castro. One of the painters of the “Mural of Prehistory” was Leovigildo Gonzales Morillo. He was a student of Diego Riviera, the world-famous Mexican painter. The 120-metre-long work is by far the largest open-air fresco in the world.

Here you can find the world’s best coffee and rum!

The valley is crisscrossed by endless coffee plantations. Cubans are particularly proud of their traditionally grown coffees. The home-made rum is appreciated all over the world for its quality and strength.

A small town with a wide variety of culinary delights

The city of Viñales consists of a few cozy streets, a small market and a small church. During the day, the city is quiet and peaceful. In the evening, the alleys turn into one big restaurant. The smells and exotic taste of the food attract visitors from all over the world. Be sure to try the Bistec do Cedro menu. This lightly salted piece of pork, seasoned with lime, garlic and onion, served with rice and beans, is highly appreciated by the locals. It is also worth mentioning the variant called Ropa Vieja. It is a long-cooked beef with tomato and orange juice. No pesticide is used in the production of vegetables and fruit on the entire island. All fruits are organically grown.

Happiness lies on the back of a horse. In Cuba for sure!

In the tropical valley, horseback rides are offered daily. Beginners are also welcome. The horses in the valley are well adapted and trained. The slow pace ensures appropriate relaxation for humans and animals. The beauty of nature can be particularly enjoyed in this way.

A visit to the Viñales Valley guarantees an enchanting nature journey with delicious taste sensations. Let yourself be fascinated!

Winter holiday XXL. Dream travel destinations for the extended family – via HomeExchange

0

Thursday, November 17, 2022 – The winter season is approaching and with it the holidays: For many families, this is the time to celebrate and get together together. Why not combine your winter holiday with family time, escape the cramped apartment with a folding sofa and air beds for the guests – and spend the Christmas holidays in a large house in beautiful surroundings, where grandma and grandpa, cousins and uncles can also comfortably sit? An affordable alternative to a hotel is a home exchange holiday. It is not only easy on the travel budget, but also leaves nothing to be desired in terms of sustainability and comfort: There is hardly a more authentic way to accommodate the extended family.

“After a long year that was particularly difficult for all of us, 2022 is almost over. What could be better than ending the year with your loved ones? What makes a home exchange so attractive is the character and authenticity of the homes, where you live like a local and create real memories,” muses Emmanuel Arnaud, co-founder and CEO of home exchange platform HomeExchange. And if you want to spend the holidays with grandparents, siblings, uncles, aunts or good friends, you’re guaranteed to find what you’re looking for here: Four particularly spacious domiciles in dreamlike holiday resorts that are easily accessible by car or train show where Christmas and New Year’s Eve 2022 could become a winter fairy tale for the XXL family with a house exchange.

1. Val D’Anniviers, Switzerland

Source: HomeExchange

Right in the heart of the Swiss Alps lies one of the most beautiful mountain valleys and nature areas – the Val D’Anniviers. The Alpine Valley is characterised by its well-developed sports infrastructure. In winter, ski enthusiasts get their money’s worth here on over 200 kilometres of ski slopes. At around 3000 metres, the highest slope summit invites you to spectacular descents. And if you like it quieter, you can explore the numerous hiking trails. Val D’Anniviers also has a lot to offer in terms of culinary delights: Valais raclette and traditionally produced glacier wine are among the famous regional products. Located not far from the valley is the cozy mountain cabin of Michael, a member of HomeExchange. It has four bedrooms and eleven beds, spread over 120 square meters. Here the extended family can be together undisturbed and enjoy the panoramic view of the magnificent mountain range.

https://www.homeexchange.fr/maison-vacances/1983567

 

2. Florence, Italy

Source: HomeExchange

The Italian city of Florence is known for its impressive artistic and cultural heritage and is considered one of the most beautiful cities in the world. A tourist magnet in summer, the Tuscan city is less crowded during the winter months. Holidaymakers save themselves crowded streets and long queues during this time. This makes sightseeing more relaxed and allows extensive strolling. In keeping with the Mediterranean flair, a true dream accommodation is offered by HomeExchange member Helen in an unbeatable location: the frescoed apartment is located in an old palazzo and directly on the banks of the Arno. It covers 350 square meters and offers eleven sleeping places. So after a stroll through the city, everyone in the family group can put their feet up together.

https://www.homeexchange.com/holiday-home/2111123

3. Braine-l’Alleud, Belgium

Source: HomeExchange

Families who want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and everyday life will certainly find peace and quiet in the rural village of Braine-l’Alleud. The extensive fields offer wonderful sunsets and lead to numerous popular excursion destinations. A piece of history can be experienced on relaxed walks and bike tours: historic castles and monuments such as the “Lion of Waterloo” are located in the area. Despite the quiet and secluded location, there are various restaurants and shopping facilities within walking distance. An ideal place to consciously disconnect from the digital hustle and bustle and devote yourself intensively to your family. In this property you would like to stay for a long time anyway: the huge property of David and Andrea, two long-time members of HomeExchange, combines everything your heart desires and impresses with a jacuzzi, bar, library, home cinema and private garden. A postmodern, exclusively furnished house that sleeps 15. So “hyggelig” and comfortable that you would like to stay until spring.

https://www.homeexchange.com/holiday-home/2015073

4. Mladé Buky, Czech Republic

Source: HomeExchange

Mladé Buky is a village in the Czech Republic. Especially in the winter season, the village flourishes, as many ski tourists go to the slopes. The largest ski resort in the Czech Republic is located there. With golf courses, night skiing and a huge children’s amusement park with heated paddling pools and trampolines, there is something for young and old. Guests will also find the family-friendly ambience at Marek, another member of HomeExchange: Twelve beds are spread over five bedrooms. The house he offers for exchange offers 150 square meters of living space and has three bathrooms as well as a garden and swimming pool.

https://www.homeexchange.com/holiday-home/2165700

 

Business trips: practical tips for organizing

0

In this article, we would like to give you more useful tips so that you can make your business trips as pleasant and stress-free as possible. Proper preparation is key to the success of a business trip. But which practices make sense and which don’t? We have compiled the most important aspects for you.

Flight booking for a business trip

Book your flight as early as possible

It is recommended to book your flight as early as possible, as prices usually increase over time. If you are flexible, you can also try to find cheap flights. There are many websites where you can search for cheap flights. However, make sure that you read the terms and conditions of the respective website carefully before booking.

Travel flexibly by private jet

If you are in a hurry and need to travel by plane at short notice, you have the option of renting a private jet. For example, the world’s leading provider AEROAFFAIRES offers the possibility to charter an aircraft within two hours. Even if you want or need to avoid waiting times at the gate, renting a plane is a good option.

Try booking direct flights

If possible, book direct flights instead of stopovers. Direct flights are usually more expensive, but they save you a lot of time and stress. However, if you don’t have a choice and need to book a flight with a stopover, try booking a flight with only one stopover. This way you avoid taking several flights on the same day and having to change planes in several airports.

Don’t pack too much

Try to take as little as possible with you. Pack only the things you absolutely need. The more luggage you carry around with you, the harder it will be for you to move around and keep everything under control. If possible, pack light clothing and shoes so that you have more space in your luggage.

Choosing the right accommodation

Train instead of flight
Travelling through Germany by train instead of plane, Image: Denis Belitsky / shutterstock

A good hotel should be important for both the organization and the execution of your trip. If you are looking for a good hotel, you should pay attention to various aspects. First, you should pay attention to whether the hotel is close to the places where you will have conversations or meetings. The range of restaurants and shopping opportunities nearby is also important.

Another important criterion is the hotel’s facilities. Pay attention to the number and quality of the rooms, bathrooms and other rooms, as well as the comfort of these facilities. The choice of amenities, e.g. games or television in the rooms, is also important. After all, you want to relax during your trip and not have to move all the time.

The location of the hotel is also significant. Pay particular attention to the distance to public transport and the exhibition or congress centre, if necessary. The range of parks or other green spaces near the hotel also plays a role in choosing the right hotel for your trip.

Hired car

When booking a rental car for your business trip, you should always ask yourself whether you really need a car. In many cases, it is not necessary to rent your own vehicle – unless you plan to get around a lot or have special requirements for the vehicle (e.g. a towbar).

If you decide to take a rental car, you should keep the following in mind:

  • Find out in advance about the rental conditions and costs. Pay particular attention to the costs for kilometres, fuel and any additional drivers.
  • Reserve the car as early as possible to get the best prices. Compare different offers and, if necessary, different car rental companies.
  • When you pick up the car, take exactly the time to familiarize yourself with the vehicle and try out all the features (e.g. heating/air conditioning). Make sure that all damage to the vehicle is documented.
  • Before you set off, you should find out whether there are any special traffic rules in the country/region you are driving in (e.g. ban on drinking and driving).

Plan B

Nobody likes it when he or she is on a business trip. It’s always a stress to travel around and meet new people. But there is a way to improve this experience: Plan B. A plan B is a contingency strategy that you should develop before you go on your next trip. This plan should help you get the best possible experience on your trip. So if you don’t like to travel or are afraid that something could go wrong, you should think about a plan B beforehand.

The coastal town of Baracoa on the Caribbean island of Cuba is a true gem

0

Baracoa in eastern Cuba in the province of Guantánamo is the oldest settlement on the Caribbean island. The former capital of Cuba is located on the Atlantic coast, on the Bahía de Miel, the Bay of Honey. As early as 1492, Christopher Columbus discovered the remote place on one of his voyages. Surrounded by the mighty Sierra del Purial mountain range, the city, founded in 1511 by Governor Diego Velázquez, could only be reached by sea for a long time. It was not until 1965 under Fidel Castro that the breathtaking La Farola, a mountain road winding through the Sierra del Purial, was created.

Caribbean culture

Even after its connection to the rest of Cuba, the colonial village remained tranquil, far away from mass tourism. Cobblestones and colorfully painted houses give the city center of Baracoa its unique atmosphere. The pronounced French influence on the city’s design can be traced back to the French settlers who immigrated from Haiti in the 19th century and also introduced the cultivation of cocoa and coffee. In the historic old town, which has more French than Spanish influences, the Cathedral of Nuestra Señora de la Asunción rises up. The oldest church in Cuba preserves the Cruz de la Parra cross from the 15th century, which Columbus is said to have erected on his arrival. In front of the church stands a bust of tribal chief Hatuey.

Along the eastern coast of Baracoa runs the Malecón seafront. It ends at a park with a statue of the explorer Columbus. In front of the city stretches the beach Playa Negra, also called Playa Boca de Miel. Further west are the quiet beaches of Playa Maguana and Playa Nibujón.

Cuban Traditions

Baracoa, Cuba
Out and about in the streets of Baracoa, Image: Jerome LABOUYRIE / shutterstock

With the large number of cocoa plantations, it is not surprising that chocolate is a typical product of Baracoa. In the city, Cuba’s largest chocolate factory produces a wide variety of tempting products. At Casa del Chocolate, in addition to chocolate, you can also taste the specialty of the place, a sweet called cucurucho. The mixture of honey, sugar, fruit and coconut is traditionally served wrapped in a palm leaf.

The Cuban way of life, such as music and salsa, is best experienced at the Plaza de la Independencia in the heart of the city. On weekends, a colourful farmers’ market is held on the waterfront, where local farmers sell their regional products.

You can also learn interesting facts about the culture of the country, the history of the city and the indigenous people in the museum at the Fortaleza la Matachíne fortress. It was built by the Spanish colonial rulers to protect it from pirates. From the Castillo de Seboruco, the highest fort in Baracoa, you can enjoy magnificent views of Baracoa and the Bahía de Miel.

Original landscapes

Baracoa and its surroundings are characterized by unspoiled nature. On the coast of the Caribbean town, lonely white beaches beckon with turquoise blue waters, while the interior is dominated by dense tropical rainforest.

The Cuchillas del Toa Biosphere Reserve serves to protect the world’s last preserved rainforests and their endangered rare flora and fauna. Here you will find the Parque Nacional Alejandro de Humboldt, which is well worth seeing, named after the naturalist Alexander von Humboldt. It is the largest national park in Cuba and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. On fascinating hikes through the park, visitors discover rare plants and animals, including the Cuban land snail with its interesting color spirals.

In the Cuchillas del Toa mountain range, the 575-metre-high table mountain El Yunque, the anvil, also rises in the middle of the tropical rainforest. On its summit stands a bust of Christopher Columbus, and at the foot of the limestone cliff, cocoa and bananas thrive on the plantations. From the Salto Fino, the highest waterfall in the Caribbean, the water of the Arroyo del Infierno thunders from a height of 305 meters into the depths.

On the Rio de Yumurí River, you will find a tropical paradise and the small village of Boca de Yumuri, from which you can take boat trips to the nearby canyon.

El Cobre – the holiest place in Cuba

0

El Cobre is a small town in the southeast of Cuba, only about 20 kilometers from the country’s second largest city, Santiago de Cuba. Mining has been carried out in the city since the 16th century. In the city’s nearby mine, the Spanish mined copper until 2000, when the mine was closed.

How to get to El Cobre

Santiago de Cuba Airport has international flight connections to the Spanish capital Madrid and Miami in Florida, among others. Domestic flights from the Cuban capital Havana take place several times a week. From there you can either take a rental car, bus or taxi to El Cobre. Of course, a visit to the basilica is a part of many tours offered in Santiago de Cuba. If you start your rental car tour through Cuba in Havana, you have a long journey to El Cobre ahead of you, because the small town is 850 km away from the capital of Cuba. On a three-week trip through the country, however, a visit to the small town should be possible without any problems and stress.

The most visited pilgrimage site in Cuba

The reason why three popes have already visited this small town in Cuba can be found in the Basilica de Nuestra Señora del Cobre. In this is the statue of the Merciful Virgin of Cobre (La Virgen de la Caridad del Cobre). According to legend, it was found floating in the sea by three fishermen. They pulled the supposed flotsam out of the water and at that moment the sea calmed down and was as smooth as glass. The statue of Mary contained the inscription “Yo soy la Virgen de la Caridad” – in German “I am the Virgin of Mercy”. At home in Cobre, the fishermen built a shrine to the Virgin. In 1915, Pope Benedict XV declared the Virgin the Patron Saint of Cuba at the request of veterans of the Wars of Independence. The current church, in which the patron saint stands, was consecrated in 1927. The white basilica with its red roofs is enthroned on a hill above the city and can be seen from afar. Around it, lush, green hills rise up. To have a beautiful view over the city and the church, you can hike up one of the hills.

Wishes come true

View into the interior of the pilgrimage church
View inside the pilgrimage church, Image: Sergey-73 / shutterstock

The patron saint of Cuba only leaves her place in the church for the procession, which takes place once a year in her honor. The Virgin of Mercy has always been visited by devout Christians and followers of the Santeria religion. They worship the Virgin as Ochún, a river goddess who stands for fertility. The pilgrims express their wishes to the Virgin and if they are fulfilled, they visit the Virgin again to express their thanks.

This is also a reason why many showcases display objects dedicated to the Virgin. In addition to crutches, baptismal gowns, there are numerous gold medals and trophies of famous athletes and sports jerseys. However, the most valuable items are kept under lock and key. These include the Nobel Prize medal of Ernest Hemingway and a golden partisan figure. Fidel Castro’s mother gave it to the virgin out of gratitude that her son survived the revolution unscathed.

Attractions around El Cobre

From El Cobre, you should not miss the opportunity to visit the big city of Santiago de Cuba. The pedestrian zone convinces with many markets, shops and of course colorful houses, which were built in colonial style. The national cemetery of the city of Cementerio de Santa Ifigenia, where Fidel Castro was buried, is also a worthwhile destination. A highlight of the city is the UNESCO-listed fortress Castillo de San Pedro de la Roca, which sits enthroned on the cliffs at the entrance to Santiago de Cuba Bay. The construction of the fortress was completed in the 17th century and took 42 years. The fortress was built to protect the city from pirate attacks, which lasted until the 18th century. The fortress, which was used as a prison in the meantime, consists of four levels. It has since been restored and in some rooms there is a museum that tells the history of the fortress.

Another destination is in the Gran Piedra National Park, which is located east of El Cobre. In this there is a 1225-meter-high monolith, which is one of the largest monoliths in the world. To get to it, 452 steps have to be climbed. As a reward for your efforts, a magnificent view of the surroundings awaits you at the top.