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What to see in Malaga

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As the second largest city in Andalusia, Malaga has some real treasures in store. History, art and culture meet here in a miraculous mixture. From antiquity to the present day, the city can be experienced in all its facets. Rent a car from CarGest Malaga without excess and visit the most beautiful sights of the city.

Alcazaba – Fortress of the City

The Alcazaba palace complex has towered over the city since the 11th century. It was not until the early 19th century that parts of the fortress were destroyed by Napoleon Bonaparte’s army. In 1933, restoration work was carried out and archaeological investigations were carried out. The complex is connected to the Gibralfaro fortress by a fortified passage (called “coracha”).

Visitors are welcome at the fortress after paying an entrance fee and can enjoy the architecture as well as the view over the city, harbour and surrounding area. Special exhibitions are also held within the palace from time to time.
The complex also includes a Roman theatre, which is located at the foot of the castle hill. It is the most important relic from Roman times and dates back to the 1st century. However, it lost its importance as early as the 3rd century and was later partially demolished by the Arabs for the construction of Alcazaba. It was not rediscovered until 1951.

Castillo de Gibralfaro – Protective castle with a view

Castillo de Gibralfaro, Malaga
Castillo de Gibralfaro, Image: Andrei Nekrassov / shutterstock

Once built to protect the Alcazaba fortress, the Castillo de Gibralfaro is now a tourist attraction. The castle hill Jbel-Faro was already fortified in ancient times. In the 10th century, a fortress was built on these remains, which was expanded in 1340.
In 1487, Isabella I of Castile and Ferdinand II of Aragon besieged the fortress for three months in the summer, after which they had taken the castle and also Alcazaba. The king took the castle as his residence, while his wife Isabella lived in the city. Since 1931, the fortress has been considered a historical monument and can now be visited by visitors, although this is worthwhile not only because of the architecture and history, but also because of the view of the Strait of Gibraltar.

Catedral de la Encarnación – Cathedral of the Incarnation of God

In the city centre, the cathedral of Malaga with the long name Santa Iglesia Catedral Basílica de la Encarnación stands on a site that was occupied by a mosque before 1528. Since only one tower was completed due to lack of money, the church is nicknamed “La Manquita”, which means “little one-armed lady”.
It was built for over 250 years, which resulted in a highly appealing mix of architectural styles. While it is mostly Renaissance style, there are also Gothic, Baroque, and Neoclassical elements.

Jardín Botánico-Histórico La Concepción – The city’s green oasis

The tropical garden in the northern part of the city was created in 1855. Palace-like buildings, waterfalls, fountains, pavilions and a variety of indigenous, subtropical and tropical plants create a unique atmosphere. In 1990, the former private garden was bought by the city, opened to the public in 1994 and gradually more themed gardens were added. For example, the “Cactus Garden” and the “Garden of Primordial Plants”. With its diverse botany, the garden also provided the perfect backdrop for several films. Most recently, for example, in 2003 for “The Bridge of San Luis Rey”.

The bullring – Spanish tradition

Málaga, Andalusia
View of the bullring in Málaga in Andalusia, Image: S-F / shutterstock

An improbable picture is the imposing bullring, which seems so small in the middle of the skyscrapers. The arena, built in 1874, offers space for almost 9,000 spectators. In addition to bullfights – which take place mainly in August – you can also see a museum around this Spanish tradition in the building, which may be an easier choice for those interested compared to the bloody fights. Today, the arena is also used for the training of noble horses. But you can also visit the arena for architectural reasons. The architect Joaquín Rucoba was a master at combining Renaissance architecture with influences from Islam, which is what makes up the Spanish Neo-Mudejar style.

Picasso Museum & Birthplace – The great artist up close

Both buildings – the museum and the birthplace – are close to each other.
While the museum provides an overview of all Picasso’s creative periods with over 200 works, the birthplace provides intimate insights into the origins of the well-known artist. The former is located in the Palacio de los Condes de Buenavista, which was built in the first half of the 16th century. In 1997, the city bought the building to turn it into the first Picasso museum in his birthplace, and since 2003 the doors have been open to art lovers. In Plaza de la Merced 36 is the house where Pablo Picasso was born on October 25, 1881 and also spent the first ten years of his childhood. For visitors, the house was furnished in the style of the late 19th century and some original objects of the family can also be admired there. In addition, since 1998 there has also been a documentation center that exhibits works of art by Picasso as well as contemporary artists.

Our tip: Take advantage of car rental malaga directly at the airport. This way you can reach your accommodation as quickly as possible.

Holidays in the Hauts-de-France region

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Hauts-de-France is the northernmost region in France, bordering both Belgium and the sea, and is a popular destination for holidaymakers. In fact, this region has only existed since 2016, when the two regions of Nord-Pas-Calais and Picardy were merged. Today it consists of five smaller areas: Pas-de-Calais, Nord, Somme, Aisne and Oise. Hauts-de-France is home to the cities of Lilie and Amiens. Like any other region, this one is also shaped by culture, but can also convince with its nature. In this post, we’ll take a look at Hauts-de-France and what it has to offer for travelers.

Special sights

Hauts-de-France is a fantastically beautiful area in the north of France, which can offer both nature and culture. If you don’t want to travel directly to the interior of France , this is a suitable holiday destination. It combines many popular excursion destinations, there is something for every taste.

Experience coastal regions and nature

Since Hauts-de-France is a coastal region, it is particularly convincing here. In the north of the area you will find the largest chalk cliffs in Europe, which shimmy along the beach and rise several meters into the air. The white stone formations, covered with a green meadow, are definitely worth a visit. There are also many smaller towns and villages on the coast, and you can also see many lighthouses. The Bay of Somme is probably the most popular destination

This region is also special for cyclists, because the landscape is largely flat and offers a large and developed system of paths. Hauts-de-France, with its various natural landscapes, can also be explored in this way. There are many canals and rivers where the bike paths run. Nature lovers will definitely get their money’s worth, the region offers many national parks, gardens, parks and forests.

Experience cities and culture

Amiens Cathedral, Hauts-de-France
Amiens Cathedral, Image: karamysh / shutterstock

But there is also a lot to discover for city travellers. Lily and Amiens are the largest cities in the region, but many of the small towns and villages also have a lot to offer. The architecture alone is worth a look and offers many great photo opportunities. Lille is the modern and cultural centre, a rapidly growing city at the moment. Amiens is much sleepier, often referred to as the Venice of northern France. The city is crisscrossed by canals and many gardens. History lovers should definitely visit some of the areas, including Bergues, Cassel or Arras. There are also many imposing buildings to see, such as Lille Cathedral, Notre-Dame Cathedral in Amiens (not to be confused with the one in Paris , the one in Amiens is almost twice as large) or various castles in the Pierrefonds, Chantilly and Compiègne regions. The Louvre-Lens Museum is also worth a visit.

To learn more about the history of the region, there are also many museums and monuments. The region is tactically one of the most important in all of France, especially during the First World War. It was a protection of the capital Paris, had to fend off attackers from the sea as well as from Belgium . There are memorial sites throughout the Hauts-de-France region. The region is also known for its textile and coal processing. There are also numerous museums and sights for this.

The best time of year to travel

Due to its proximity to the sea, this region is extremely mild. In summer it is not particularly hot, but in winter it is rarely very cold. The temperatures are always in a range between 0 and 25 degrees. This makes it a perfect travel region. However, it could rain more than expected, especially the coastal regions are sometimes difficult to assess and the weather can change quickly.

Summer is definitely worthwhile for a beach holiday, but the coastal regions around Hauts-de-France are also worth a visit in autumn and spring. Only wrap a little thicker here, as it can get very windy. In the warmer seasons, a trip into nature is also worthwhile. The cities can be visited all year round, which is mainly due to mild temperatures.

Culinary specialties

The Hauts-de-France region also has some delicious dishes to offer. For example, the sausage varieties andouille and andouillette are well-known. However, due to its proximity to Belgium, the area is particularly influenced by its eating habits. These include, for example, the Flemish carbonate, the fluffy cake called Merveilleux and Gaufre Fourrée Lilloise, which have similarities to Belgian waffles. The most popular cheese in the region is Maroilles.

Family holidays: tips for a successful trip with the kids

Vacation is primarily for recreation. Finally we have time to forget the stress of everyday life and let our minds wander. However, families with children often forget this principle, even when they arrive. In order for the family holiday to be a wonderful experience for everyone, it is important to prepare it well.

Planning the family holiday is the be-all and end-all

Family fun on the beach
Fun on the beach with the kids, Image: Sunny studio / shutterstock

There is so much to discover in the world – for us adults, but even more so for our children. A family holiday is therefore the highlight of the year for many families.

For a harmonious holiday with the kids, it is first important to find out what each individual family member wants and hopes for from the holiday together. Both adults and children are allowed to wish for something that should be implemented later. So everyone is particularly looking forward to the upcoming holiday.

The best way to discuss holiday wishes is in a relaxed atmosphere, for example while playing together. Here you can also talk wonderfully about the holiday destination. Once the family has agreed on a destination, the actual preparation begins for the parents. The aim is to make the holiday as beautiful and stress-free as possible for everyone.

The following questions, among others, need to be answered when preparing for a family holiday:

  1. Are the accommodation and the immediate surroundings child-friendly and equipped with playgrounds for the little ones, for example?
  2. What sights and excursion destinations are nearby?
  3. Are there bad weather alternatives?
  4. What are the catering options in the accommodation and in the surrounding area?
  5. Is there childcare on site?
  6. Which journey is the shortest?

For a successful holiday with the family, general planning is very important. But there should also be room for spontaneous ideas. In addition, it should be noted that all journeys with children take longer, especially with toddlers and babies. Challenging hikes or sightseeing tours are better done without children or later. Older children are very enthusiastic about hiking and cycling tours in the mountains, for example. An active holiday with teenagers, for example in South Tyrol, is just the thing here.

For the little ones, there should be small, exciting highlights everywhere if possible. This can be a playground, a climbing tower or a fun pool. Basically, if the kids are busy, the parents have a more relaxing holiday.

 

Well-known filming locations – dream destinations for film fans

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Romantic islands, castles, fortresses, small villages, big cities or sun-drenched dream beaches: all over the world there are places that have become famous as film locations. They attract tourists who want to indulge in dreams on the spot.

Where the “Big Apple” pulsates: New York, USA

The list of films shot in the megacity of New York is endless. It ranges from “Breakfast at Tiffany’s”, “Spiderman” and “Ghostbusters” to “Man in Black” or “Kevin Alone in New York”. World-famous highlights en masse make New York an unforgettable destination in addition to the famous filming locations.

Sunny Greece: Skiathos and Skopelos, Greece

View of Lalaria beach in Skiathos
View of Lalaria beach in Skiathos, Image: Cara-Foto / shutterstock

Small bays on the clear, blue sea, picturesque villages and fragrant pine forests make the Greek Mediterranean islands of Skiathos and Skopelos not only a holiday idyll like many others in sunny Greece. At the latest when film fans discover the well-known wedding chapel enthroned on a rock, where Meryl Streep and Pierce Brosnan spontaneously marry à la Donna and Sam at the end of the first “Mamma Mia” film, everyone shouts enthusiastically: “Mamma Mia, how beautiful it is here!”.

Lake Walchensee: charming Tyrol

All children and their parents and grandparents probably also know “Vicky the Viking”. Very few people know that the well-known films were shot in the Austrian Kaiserwinkl northeast of Kufstein, more precisely on the beautiful Walchsee. Due to the particularly attractive surroundings in all seasons, the destination is also suitable as a filming location for various Viking films afterwards.

Magical: Isle of Skye, Scotland

Scotland is full of magic here: The realization not only led pop star Harry Styles to shoot the video for “Sign of the Times” on the island, but also various British film and series productions were created on the wildly romantic Scottish island. From the island town of Portree, visitors explore the cinematic landscapes with their medieval castles and picturesque fishing villages.

Wildly romantic island of Skelling Michael, Ireland

The Skellings are also known as the “Great Skelling” and are located about 12 kilometres off the Irish coast of Kerry. As filming locations for the “Star Wars” films “The Force Awakens” and “The Last Jedi”, they have become a place of pilgrimage for film fans from all over the world. With its medieval paths, an ancient monastic settlement and a historic monastery complex, it was the ideal shelter for Luke Skywalker in the films. Today, the wildly romantic rocky island is an extremely sought-after travel destination.

Location: London City, England

The imposing Houses of Parliament, Westminster Abbey as the coronation site of the British monarchs, the blows of Big Ben or the London Eye Ferris wheel, which opens up a panoramic view far over the city on the Thames: all this is London. The international megacity offers plenty of hotspots for all film lovers at Kings Cross station with platform 9 3/4 from the Harry Potter films, with James Bond’s M16 headquarters or with reminiscences of Sherlock Holmes or Paddington Bear.

Beautiful pearl on the Adriatic: Dubrovnik, Croatia

The Old Town of Dubrovnik
The Old Town of Dubrovnik, Image: SchnepfDesign / shutterstock

Croatian Dubrovnik is considered one of the most beautiful cities in the entire Mediterranean region – and so the romantic town is also called the “Pearl of the Adriatic”. One of the most successful series of recent years “Game of Thrones” was filmed here. The venues were the Pile Gate and the Lovrijenac Fortress, as well as various parts of the historic city walls, especially for the cinematic representation of the cities of King’s Landing and Quarth. In addition, Dubrovnik served as the location for various scenes of Star Wars Episode 8.

Maya Bay on Koh Phi Phi, Thailand

Leonardo DiCaprio first experienced the ideal dream of every Thailand backpacker here in his film “The Beach”. Later, the supposed ideal turned into a nightmare. Nevertheless, Maya Bay on the Thai island of Koh Phi Phi is considered an ultimate dream beach.


You can get the book at amazon, among other places: https://amzn.to/3EMA30r

Our tip:
You can also find more legendary filming locations in the book “Scene by Scene to Discover the World” by Andrea David (published by Conbook-Verlag, ISBN 978-3-95889-435-8).

Information about the book:

Germany’s best-known film tourist, Andrea David, has been travelling to legendary filming locations for 18 years, telling of her discoveries and encounters in a visually powerful way and offering unusual insights behind the scenes. The highlight: She holds photos of iconic scenes in her hand and inserts them exactly into the surroundings of famous filming locations in her pictures.

Her travel book for film fans also provides inspiration and tips for anyone who wants to discover the locations of their favourite films and series for themselves. Because one thing is clear: Films and series always create new places of longing. Be it the coastal town where Hitchcock made “The Birds” scream, the valley through which the dinosaurs ran in “Jurassic Park”, or the forest that became Winterfell in “Game of Thrones” – or Highway 163 in the US state Utah with the place of longing Monument Valley on the horizon, where “Forrest Gump” has finished his march.

Entertaining travel reports with numerous photos and over 200 film tourism tips for subsequent travel.


Vimmerby, Sweden

The Kingdom of Sweden is considered the Northern European center of joie de vivre. This impression is supported by the stories of the popular writer Astrid Lindgren, who takes all viewers and readers to the small town of Vimmerby in southern Sweden’s province of Småland. In the alleys of Vimmerby, the Falun red wooden houses are considered to be the models for the adventures of the master detective “Kalle Blomquist”, the “Children of Bullerby” and “Michel from Lönneberga”.

The rock city of Petra, Jordan

Jordan, Petra
Petra, the famous archaeological site in the southwestern Jordanian desert, Image: tenkl / shutterstock

Travelers to Jordan are quickly transported back in time when they visit the ancient rock city of Petra . It was the filming location for “Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade” – and anyone who visits the treasure chamber and the “Temple of the Grail” through the gorge “Al Siq” is sure to be completely enchanted. Anyone who explores the red rock city in Indiana Jones’ footsteps will never forget the unique film locations.

Venice: Drama and action in Italy

Comedy, drama, action – all of this comes together in Bella Italia. In addition to the capital Rome, the action venue of various James Bond adventures, the wonderful lagoon city of Venice, for example, was a filming location for Til Schweiger’s film “Honey in the Head”. Venice invites you to take boat trips on the Grand Canal, visit the magnificent palaces on St. Mark’s Square and, of course, visit the Hotel Bauer, where Tilda and Amadeus stayed.

Golden State, California, USA

California Dreamin: The entire US state between San Diego and San Francisco is a backdrop for lifestyle and film shoots like out of a picture book – and therefore also known from numerous series and films. Los Angeles is considered the center of the film industry; for travelers, a stroll along Rodeo Drive is a must – just like Julia Roberts in “Pretty Woman” – and Venice Beach was once the sunny location in “Baywatch”.

Winter holidays in Jahorina

Fine, bright white snow, dense treetops and an unforgettable time. This is to be expected when traveling to the hidden mountain part in the middle of Bosnia and Herzegovina. Whether spring, summer, autumn or winter. Jahorina offers diversity in every season. But what exactly makes Jahorina so unique?

One of the most beautiful places in Bosnia and Herzegovina

Jahorina is part of the Dinaric Mountains, centrally located in Bosnia and Herzegovina and south of Sarajevo. The name of the highest peak is Ogorjelica and in total the mountain range stretches over a length of 30 kilometers.

The climate near Jahorina is Mediterranean and continental. This means that summers are rainy and warm, while winters are snowy and cold. On average, there is snow on 175 days of the year and the average snow depth in winter is 106 centimeters. The main part of the mountain range is protected as the “Jahorina National Park”. It is particularly beautiful to look at in spring and summer. Because at these times of the year, the snow cover disappears and instead you get a wonderful view of the natural landscape of Jahorina.

A paradise for skiers and snowboarders

The mountain range not only has a picturesque landscape to offer in every season, but is also a diverse and eventful holiday destination. The winter sports area of the mountain range is located at an altitude of about 1300 meters to 1890 meters. Directly near Jahorina, tourists will find a large selection of hotels, apartments, restaurants, bars and ski rentals. In total, skiers and snowboarders have 47 kilometres of slopes in all different levels of difficulty at their disposal. These include 20 kilometres of easy slopes, 24 kilometres of medium difficulty and the remaining 3 kilometres of difficult routes. 16 lifts in the ski area ensure that you can explore the entire winter sports area during both a short and a long stay. These include 2 gondolas, 5 chair lifts, 5 T-bar lifts and 4 conveyor belts. The day ticket costs in the high season, from 26.11. until 23.04., 37 euros per day for adults and 31 euros for children. The ski area is open daily from 9:00-16:00.

Even at night, thanks to the floodlights, you have the opportunity to ski or snowboard and create more memories.

Jahorina’s uniqueness

Jahorina
Jahorina, Image: Boca-phototour / shutterstock

What makes Jahorina special and distinguishes the mountain range from other holiday destinations is the diversity of the place. Not only is Jahorina a fantastic area for skiing and snowboarding in winter, but also suitable for other winter sports. Cross-country skiing or snowshoeing are also possible here. And for good, not too expensive prices.

In addition, the climate and weather conditions in spring, summer and autumn are ideal for hiking or simply for a relaxing holiday in the mountains. Not too hot, not too dry, but just right. The landscape is idyllic and beautiful to look at all year round.

In addition, the surroundings of Jahorina are at least as interesting as the mountain range itself. North of the mountain peak is Sarajevo, the capital of Bosnia and Herzegovina. For a day trip, it is definitely worth paying a visit to the city. Whether alone, with your partner, with a group of friends or with the family. The mood of the city is completely different. And you not only get an insight into the picturesque landscape of Jahorina and its idyllic surroundings, but also a picture of the big city flair.

Tips for the perfect trip

Before planning your holiday, you should of course think about the season in which you want to travel. For a skiing holiday in the snow-capped mountains, the months of December to April are best. If, on the other hand, you want to spend a relaxing holiday in the peaceful paradise of the Jahorina mountain range, then you should arrive in June, July, August or September. Because during these months, the low rainfall and the pleasant, summery temperature of about 20 degrees offer the ideal time to travel.

Jahorina in summer
Jahorina in summer, Image: SanjaRS / shutterstock

One advantage of the destination is that the prices in Bosnia and Herzegovina are comparatively cheap. For tourists, this means that the cost of a holiday to Jahorina, including accommodation, food and other expenses, is low. Usually, a tip of 5-10% is given here. The currency is the convertible mark, also known as “KM” or “BAM”. 1 convertible mark can be converted into about 0.51 euros. Although you can usually pay with euros, it is certainly smart to get a small amount of convertible marks and take them with you on your trip.
Bosnia and Herzegovina is safe as a travel destination. Nevertheless, as always, you should take care of your valuables during your holiday.

It is also important to know that data roaming is not free here, as Bosnia and Herzegovina is not part of the EU. For this reason, you should make sure that you are either connected to a Wi-Fi network or have turned off your mobile data.

Jahorina is a special place. The culture, landscape and diverse offers definitely make the holiday a unique experience that you will never forget.

Men’s Clothing: Create Trendy Looks with Super Slim Shirts

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With a tight-fitting shirt, you can emphasize a slim body and create a casual, but at the same time stylish or even elegant look, depending on the context. Whether Italian or button-down collar, classic or in creative colours – the slim-cut shirt fits almost like a second skin and also nestles against the arms. It can be worn open or tucked in, depending on the occasion, with the cotton fabric facilitating movement thanks to its elastane content.

Men’s Clothing: Types of Super Slim

As with the classic shirt, the collar of the Extra Slim can be French wide or more closed with the tips down, i.e. Italian: A tie is recommended with such a shirt only on formal occasions, but most of the time the slim shirt is worn more casually chic. If you don’t want to use a tie: green light also for Korean collars (without lace) or button-down, i.e. with clearly visible tips and buttoning.

In addition, extra-slim shirts can have a chest pocket; or not, if a “purist” style is desired and dark colors such as blue are used, which would rather hide a bag anyway. The colour palette ranges from the versatile white to the classic vertical blue stripe, without neglecting more intense tones for a personalised look. So black can dress perfectly in the evening and also help to underline a slim physique.

Men’s clothing: trendy combinations

Although the minimalist style is most emphasized by extra-slim shirts, you can play with volume contrasts, for example by combining wide trousers or tight-fitting trousers that you can wear with a tucked-in shirt, and perhaps a blazer or casual jacket over it.

For milder days, you can create a fresh look with silk or cropped trousers such as the classic Bermuda shorts, perhaps comfortable and equipped with large pockets. Blue jeans also work very well, whether plain or torn, perhaps cigarette-style and with a pair of sneakers that visually match the shirt. The denim jacket can complete a relaxed outfit. And the shirt itself can also be made of denim.

For a casual chic, on the other hand, you can combine the slim white shirt with more formal and perhaps dark trousers, an unbuttoned jacket or even a vest if the season allows.

To recreate a unique and modern style, it is also possible to wear an extra-slim shirt open over a tight-fitting T-shirt, playing with patterns and colors: for example, a plain check shirt or one that ideally matches the color and style of the trousers.

Even crew-neck and V-neck sweaters go well over a super slim fit shirt, accentuating the collar and allowing for a subtly formal solution for an outfit between casual and elegant without the need for a tie.

Caring for a slim-fit shirt involves washing at low temperatures and with not too much spinning, especially since the best models are made entirely of cotton. Some are also non-iron, so you can wear them after you hang the garment on a hanger. However, ironing should never be done at too high a temperature.

Eight good reasons to camp in France

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Camping in France means culture, good food, friendly people and ancient history. These are just some of the reasons why so many tourists come to this beautiful country every year to go on holiday.

1. Campsites France – Prices

The price is often one of the first reasons why you decide to go on a camping holiday, only to find out that you like it and that you continue to visit campsites in France even if the cost has long since ceased to be an issue.

There are some fantastic
campsites in France
. If you take a little time to choose your pitch, you can find campsites in France with all the amenities that are essential for a pleasant and relaxing holiday.

2. The weather

The French summers in the south are legendary. They can be long and glorious, with days of hot sunshine, making them the ideal destination for sun worshippers and lovers of warm holidays. So pack your camping gear and head to a campsite in the south of France to enjoy relaxing days on warm beaches and sunny hikes through beautiful landscapes.

3. Campsites in France – Atmosphere

You will be amazed by the warm atmosphere at the campsites in France. In general, the French have a great love and passion for nature, as well as outdoor activities. This may explain why there are so many campsites in France.

4. France’s attractions

France is a fascinating country with a lot to do. No matter what your hobbies and interests are, there are tons of attractions and opportunities to keep you, your family and friends busy. You can visit the major cultural attractions in the cities and towns, hike through impressive landscapes or visit the most important historical sites.

5. Of eating and drinking

France is known for its good wines and even better cuisine, and you can take the opportunity to make the most of it during your camping holiday. The locals will be happy to show you the way to the best places to eat, or you can do some research on the internet before your holiday to visit the places whose cuisine you want to experience.

But French cuisine has more to offer than a fine meal in one of the best restaurants. Sometimes the simplest meals can be the tastiest. France offers some great options for rustic meals that taste great. You can sample fresh French bread, croissants and pastries at a local boulangerie or patisserie, and complement your meal with local cheeses and meats.

6. Magical beaches and landscapes

When choosing the destination for your holiday in France, you will be spoilt for choice. You can visit the famous Mont-Saint-Michel with its fairytale atmosphere, unique shops and culture, take a look at the endless lavender fields of Provence or enjoy the breathtaking scenery of the French Riviera.

France is such a diverse country, and you can choose where to stay based on what you want to see and do. Choose between a campsite in the warm south of France by the sea with the beautiful sandy beaches or visit the stunning countryside in central and northern France, where you can hike through some of the most beautiful scenery in Europe. One thing is for sure: you will be spoilt for choice no matter where you go.

7. Culture and History

France has a long and varied tradition that has shaped the country and culture that visitors love to explore on holiday every year. With a rich history based on religion, conflict, and the development of world-famous art, cuisine, and fashion, there’s plenty to see and learn, and France is dotted with various important historical and cultural sites worth visiting.

France has played an important role in much of world history. It has been instrumental in shaping much of what we know and love today, including cinema, fashion, cuisine, and technology, to name a few.

Take advantage of your best time of the year at one of the campsites in France to better understand and appreciate this interesting country and its rich culture.

8. The language

French is a beautiful language that most of us learned in school. There’s no better way to get acquainted with a second language than by immersing yourself in it and trying to communicate with the locals. A holiday is the best option for all children who are learning a new language!

So pack your camping gear and your kids and take them on a wonderful holiday that they’ll enjoy while learning a little more of the language while playing. Most native French speakers will be happy to help your children and encourage them to practice their French.

Santa Clara – final resting place of the Comandante

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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

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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

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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.