The world’s largest 360° panorama “GREAT BARRIER REEF – Coral Reef Wonderland” will still be on display in 2022.
The world’s largest 360° panorama by artist Yadegar Asisi of the famous Australian coral reef can now be experienced in southern Germany since autumn 2018. With the panorama “GREAT BARRIER REEF – Wonder World Coral Reef”, the Gasometer in Pforzheim presents another highlight after the panorama “ROME 312”, which previously attracted over 650,000 visitors. As the second work by the Berlin artist, the Panorama will be on display at least until 2022 in the listed and extensively renovated former gas storage facility in Pforzheim’s Enzauenpark.
The 35-metre-high and 110-metre-long panorama makes it possible to experience the incomparable beauty and enormous biodiversity of the coral reef northeast of Australia. The most diverse forms of the 2000-kilometre-long underwater ecosystem are shown – artistically condensed – in a giant circular painting. As if from a vantage point below sea level, the submarine world opens up in the Pacific. Asisi’s motivation was his fascination with the diversity and fragile complexity of a habitat that is imperceptible at first glance. On site, you have to go underwater and dive to get a rudimentary impression of the diversity – in the panorama, on the other hand, the perception is total. It is an experience for the whole family.
During the respective holidays, there are always a number of interesting offers – from family tours to inexpensive products in the shop and in the adjoining bistro. Info: www.gasometer-pforzheim.de
The Gasometer Pforzheim is open daily from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. – unless it is closed due to Corona requirements. Free parking is available in the private garage directly at the entrance.
The medical tourism industry has seen an increase of up to 30% in recent years. On the one hand, this is due to the fact that flying has become cheaper and easier. In addition, governments and the health care system have adapted to foreign patients. Similar to the package holiday, there are complete packages with visas, transport, advice, translators and everything that goes with it. The biggest advantages, however, are certainly that medical treatments abroad can save you a lot of money and you can also experience a few relaxing days. Why not have the dental treatment done in Turkey and then relax on the beach?
If you have to have a medical procedure or want to take advantage of lower prices for cosmetic treatments, you can combine this with a relaxing holiday. Often this health holiday is still cheaper than the treatment in this country. There are several reasons why people choose medical tourism. A distinction must be made here as to whether it is a purely cosmetic procedure or preventive measures (health tourism) or whether the treatment is necessary from a medical point of view (medical tourism). In the latter case, Europeans benefit from the fact that necessary treatments in the Union are now also covered by the domestic health insurance funds. In many countries, this no longer even requires supplementary insurance.
Why can it be worthwhile to cross the border?
Even in primeval times, people have taken long distances for their healing. The Kneipp spa baths are probably one of the oldest and best-known examples of medical tourism. At that time, too, people went to the “healing sea air” or to the mountains. At that time, it was primarily the city dwellers who hoped for the desired healing from the untouched nature and treatments in such surroundings. Today, however, the field of medical tourism extends around the entire planet. Just to visit the dentist in Turkey and then a short vacation on the Mediterranean coast. For more and more people, this is nothing absurd, but quite normal. There are a wide variety of reasons for treatment abroad.
Relaxing on the beach after surgery, Image: Denis Belitsky / shutterstock
At the top of the list, of course, are the cost factor and relaxation far away from the hustle and bustle at home. Particularly traditional healing methods are often only available in the home country. Ayurveda in India, the Chinese art of healing or the Wadden Sea. So if you are looking for alternative therapies, you can’t avoid a trip. In addition, not all methods available to medicine are recognized or even allowed in all countries. The big keyword here is fertility treatment. Here, for example, the standards in Germany are different from those in the Scandinavian countries. The same applies to abortions. These are not legal everywhere in the EU. And then, of course, there is the beauty holiday.
“The vacation has made you 10 years younger!”
For many foreigners, Germany is an attractive destination for medical interventions. Thanks to its high standards and very good specialists, it is popular with health tourists (especially from the Gulf States and the USA). In a Europe-wide comparison, Germany is one of the most expensive countries alongside Austria and Switzerland. This also applies to cosmetic treatments and preventive measures. Many of these applications are not covered by the German health care system and stars also travel abroad for their hair transplants, for example. At the top of the list for cosmetic procedures are Turkey, Spain, Poland and the Czech Republic (the cheapest in Europe). The rejuvenation cure in a foreign clinic is therefore a topic today that is no longer taboo, but rather proudly posted in the holiday album.
Motivation determines the holiday destination
Which country, which clinic and which doctor are all questions that should be answered on a country-by-country basis. It’s not so different from any other holiday. If you like it exotic, you should look around in Asia. If you prefer mountains and a mild climate, you can find it in the Italian Alps or in the Ural Mountains.
In the case of medical tourism, there is also the question of the accreditation of the doctor and the institution. Social media and the Internet are available to obtain information in advance. However, thanks to the great demand, there are now consultants who have a large portfolio of clinics and doctors. They have experience and can provide advice and support. The good reputation precedes the good physician and his institution. Nevertheless, it is always advisable to do a little research of your own in the case of major procedures.
Too often you hear about the botched cosmetic surgery. The resulting damage is often not covered by the domestic health insurance and those affected are left with the costs and the correction is associated with suffering. There are organizations that accredit doctors and clinics. These standards apply worldwide and are reliable. So it’s worth taking a closer look. In addition to the cost factor and the climate, safety should always be considered during a medical trip.
Whether backpacking or all-inclusive vacation: the most exciting thing about a vacation is to immerse yourself in both the everyday life and the peculiarities of foreign cultures. But sometimes this is easier said than done, especially when you think about the language barrier that makes many things more difficult – “Lost in translation” is the keyword here.
doesn’t exactly improve this problem… But it’s actually quite simple: English lessons are now firmly anchored in school education and accordingly many people in this country are at least familiar with the language to the extent that they can communicate about it to some extent.
How fortunate is it that English is the most widely spoken language in the world – at least if you add native speakers and second language speakers together. Speaking of native speakers, there are more than 50 English-speaking countries in the world beyond the United Kingdom and America.
Language barrier? Piece of cake – English spoken here
Among the many countries where English is spoken, there are of course many exciting destinations. Here you can create an authentic holiday experience with the appropriate language skills. And for all those who don’t (anymore) quite believe in their language skills, there is still the possibility to fall back on one of the many offers that make English lessons conveniently online possible – and thus prepare you perfectly for one of the following destinations.
Great Britain
Of course, the country where the English language originated should not be missing from this list. But that’s not the only reason why a visit to England is recommended.
In addition to exciting destinations for a city trip such as London, Manchester or Liverpool, the home country of Shakespeare, the Beatles and baked beans offers a lot more. Here, for example, you can learn English in its purest form, British English. From the imposing chalk cliffs of Dover up to the picturesque natural landscapes of Scotland, there is also a lot to discover in terms of landscape.
United States
Image: shutterupeire / shutterstock
Stroll through Central Park or catch a performance on Broadway Live? A vacation in New York is on many people’s bucket lists. But even away from the “Big Apple”, the land of unlimited opportunities shows why it has more than earned its nickname. How about a road trip along the east or west coast or through the interior? A visit to colorful Las Vegas? Or get up close and personal with the natural splendor of the Grand Canyon ?
Ireland
A safe bet for a trip to Ireland is, of course, the capital Dublin, the birthplace of Oscar Wilde and the famous Guinness beer. If you prefer a road trip to classic city trips, the “Ring of Kerry”, a picturesque panoramic coastal road, is just the thing. Fans of longer hikes, on the other hand, are guaranteed to be happy in one of the country’s six national parks.
For all those who have had English lessons for a while and therefore want to refresh their language skills, a visit to Blarney Castle is almost mandatory – after all, here you will find the Stone of Fluency, which may enable a special form of English tutoring.
New Zealand
The diversity in New Zealand is limitless, Image: Leelakajonkij / shutterstock
Not only all those who have always dreamed of roaming through the Shire or the steppes of Rohan will get their money’s worth during a visit to New Zealand. Because the scenic beauty of the country, which contributed to the success of the film adaptation of the “Lord of the Rings” trilogy, quickly captivates all visitors.
With spectacular sights such as the Fiordland National Park, one of the most beautiful national parks in the world, Lake Taupo or the Franz Josef Glacier, New Zealand offers all nature lovers what their hearts desire.
Australia
Australia is currently known as a popular travel destination to explore an exciting part of the world during “Work and Travel” after school and also to further improve the language skills acquired in English lessons.
But even apart from that, Australia is definitely worth a trip with its lively metropolises such as Sydney or Melbourne, impressive national parks and world-famous sights such as Ayers Rock.
Canada
In addition to English, French is also spoken in Canada – making the country perfect for a language trip. A city trip to Montreal, Quebec or Toronto already offers a lot worth seeing. But the real magic of Canada is the beauty of its nature. In addition to famous destinations such as the Rocky Mountains or Niagara Falls, there is so much more to discover in the country’s seemingly endless wilderness – making Canada a great destination for adventurous explorers.
Learning English and discovering the world go hand in hand
The great thing about English being spoken almost all over the world is the combination of discovering new cultures and having unforgettable experiences with the opportunity to improve your language skills. Or to put it another way: if you speak English, the world is open to you!
And if the English lessons at school have been a while ago, you can simply take some English tutoring – if necessary also online, which is no longer a problem these days.
A trip to the casino metropolis of Las Vegas sounds like an absolute dream to many. The streets are lit up in colourful neon lights, and the sounds of the jackpots can be heard from the gaming benches. However, you don’t have to travel that far for the great casino fun. In Germany , too, there are numerous establishments that invite you to play and have a long tradition. If you prefer to take it easy, just stay in your own four walls and play in the online casino instead. We have taken a closer look at what the advantages and disadvantages are!
Cozy Adventure at Home
Image: insta_photos / shutterstock
When the low temperatures move over the country and the first snowflakes fall, we actually prefer to be at home. Then it gets really comfortable on the sofa. If you don’t want to take off your pyjamas all weekend long, but still want to experience a portion of thrills, the online casino is the right place for you. Here you can find the perfect mix of adventure and cosiness. Compared to some land-based casinos, there is no dress code, you don’t even have to get up from the couch. With your smartphone or laptop, you have access to a huge selection of games and never have to change tables or even go to another casino. In addition, you can enjoy the offers at any time and do not have to stick to opening hours. If you just want to relax after a stressful week at work, but still want to experience something, this is the place for you!
Wide range of games with one click
A big advantage in the online casino is that you have numerous games to choose from within a few moments. Most land-based casinos have the same machine multiple times so that several people can use their favorite slots at the same time. In the online casino, this is not necessary, because each digital game can be used by several users at the same time. This leaves more space for different games, which are of course not subject to any space restrictions in the virtual world. The slots differ not only in gameplay and the number of reels and rows, but also in design. Each machine is dedicated to a specific theme: Slots with Greek mythology, retro slots with fruits and red sevens or games inspired by films are popular. Some online casinos also offer classic table games such as blackjack, roulette or poker. Here you either compete against an AI or can be guided by a professional croupier in the live casino.
Live games provide immersion
The live games offer a very special charm, as they bring a social component to the virtual world. Instead of experiencing the casino adventure alone, you communicate with the dealer and almost feel like you’re there. The games will be streamed via live stream and transmitted to the user in real time. The croupier sits in front of a green screen on which a lively casino backdrop is superimposed, and has a regular gaming table with decks of cards, chips or a roulette wheel in front of him. The player can specify in the software which bets he wants to place and start the game. Some live games also have a chat function that can be used to send messages to the dealer. He can then simply answer via the video. Fans of live casinos really appreciate the immersive component of the games, because here the boundaries between online casino and land-based casino are blurred. To this end, new game variants are being worked on diligently. In the future, for example, there could be VR casinos that you could visit with a VR headset.
Great conditions on the net
Image: rawf8 / shutterstock
An important aspect when deciding on an online provider are the conditions for customers. These tend to be better online, but they also vary from platform to platform. Here, for example, a distinction is made between the amount of bonus offers. Most online casinos give new customers a welcome bonus, which can even be worth several hundred euros. The amount usually depends on the amount of the first deposit. However, there are also providers who distribute free spins directly after registration. This means that players can try out the gaming experience even before making their first deposit. The payout percentages of the games are also interesting. These can be set for the entire casino or differ from slot to slot. Good payout percentages start at around 95% and go up. The higher the percentage, the greater the chance of winning something. So that you don’t have to compare each provider individually, websites like Casinos.de are available and show the best online casinos in Germany at a glance. Here you can see exactly what bonus offers are waiting for customers and what advantages and disadvantages each platform has. Factors such as the seriousness of the various providers are in the first place.
Disadvantages in the online casino
Of course, there are also some arguments against playing in an online casino. If you visit the casino to enjoy a special evening with friends, you may not get your money’s worth with the virtual games. In the casino, you can start your visit with an elegant dinner, sip exquisite cocktails at the gaming table and let yourself be pampered by the service staff the entire time. The atmosphere in the most beautiful casinos in the world cannot be compared to anything else – anyone who has ever visited the Casino of Monte Carlo in Monaco or The Venetian in Las Vegas can confirm this! Especially for poker players, the digital poker tables sometimes lack that certain something. Poker is very much based on a psychological component, as you have to constantly analyze and observe your opponents while maintaining your poker face. In the online casino, this part of the game is not relevant. While this is a real relief for some players, some poker pros will miss the thrill of the regular table!
Online casinos are an excellent alternative to a visit to a German casino or a trip to a casino hotel. Of course, the experience is completely different, so you have to coordinate which offers suit you best according to your own needs. Fun is guaranteed wherever you can hear the slots ringing!
In Germany, the classic travel season falls during the summer holidays. Families sometimes plan a year in advance where the well-deserved vacation should go. They are already looking forward to their summer holidays in January. However, it happens that this has to be cancelled at short notice. Whether illness, death or accident – many events over which humans have no influence can throw a spanner in the works.
Good for those who have travel cancellation insurance, it is said in this case. However, not all travel enthusiasts have taken precautions. Nevertheless, they do not necessarily have to worry about high cancellation fees.
Cancel the trip without travel cancellation insurance – and now?
Sun, summer, beach and sea: there are many reasons to go on holiday. Just as many can ensure that the planned trip has to be cancelled before departure. Those who have travel cancellation insurance can stay relaxed. The insurance covers the cancellation costs if:
Accidents or illness prevent the start of the trip,
the death of a close relative blows up the travel plan,
unexpected unemployment makes vacation impossible.
Of course, travelers without travel cancellation insurance are also allowed to cancel their vacation. However, the question arises as to what financial hurdles they will face. If you decide to cancel immediately after booking, you do not have to worry about any costs. For all holiday bookings – whether online or in a travel agency – the two-week right of withdrawal applies.
Furthermore, there is the possibility of hoping for the goodwill of the travel provider. Accordingly, it should not be cancelled immediately. If the travel enthusiasts describe their problem by phone or e-mail, the provider ideally offers one of the two options:
Travel resale: In this case, the trip can be sold to other holidaymakers. In this case, the flight and hotel are passed on to third parties at the booking price. Less often, the prevented travelers have to accept lower prices.
Rebooking: In some cases, the tour operators agree to a rebooking. Fees may apply for these.
If travel providers or guests do not agree to either solution, the only option is cancellation. How expensive it is for the travelers depends largely on the time of the trip cancellation. The type of trip can also affect cancellation fees. The lowest costs are usually incurred for package tours. If you plan your holiday individually, you must find out independently about the amount of cancellation costs for flights and accommodation .
With most low-cost carriers, tickets expire in the event of cancellation and cannot be reused. The situation is similar with more exclusive flight providers, where the cheapest flight class has been booked. The following applies to all trips: The later the cancellation is made, the higher the costs on average.
If a trip has to be canceled, it is bad enough for the vacationers. They don’t need any additional costs, Image: S_Photo / shutterstock
Cancelling the trip without cancellation fees – when and how does it work?
Normally, travelers cannot avoid cancellation fees if they cancel a trip at short notice. Nevertheless, there are exceptional cases in which the cancellation takes place without incurring costs. The reason for the cancellation of the trip plays a role here. If you don’t feel like going on holiday, you can’t claim this as a good reason for cancellation.
For example, even if there is a short-term hindrance, there are no costs for cancelling the trip if force majeure prevents the holiday. These can include natural disasters. Likewise, the tour operator must accept the cancellation free of charge if he changes his terms and conditions at short notice. This can happen if the price of the holiday suddenly increases or if services included in advance are no longer included in the travel price.
It should be borne in mind that the cancellation policy is decided on a case-by-case basis. If there are disputes between the guest and the tour operator, a lawyer may have to be consulted. However, if “force majeure” thwarts the vacation plans, the legal situation is clear. A similar situation occurs if:
there is an imminent military conflict or war in the destination country,
the travel area is closed due to a natural disaster,
there is a threat of disease epidemics in the holiday country,
domestic political unrest or a civil war make the journey unsafe.
The threat of a terrorist attack is not officially considered “force majeure”. Even after a terrorist attack, it is impossible for many travel providers to cancel the holiday in the affected country free of charge. If there is a concrete terror warning, on the other hand, the tour operators are obliged to inform the holidaymakers about what is happening. German travellers can refer to another case: If the Foreign Office issues an official travel warning for a region or country, the trip there can be cancelled at no cost.
What should be considered when cancelling a trip at short notice?
Regardless of the reasons for cancelling or rebooking the holiday, travellers should contact their tour operator in advance to describe the situation. At best, individual regulations for the problem can be found in conversation. If no agreement is reached, the cancellation of the trip becomes a done deal. In this case, it is important to inform the travel provider again in writing of your own intention. This can be done by letter, fax or e-mail.
A receipt for the written travel cancellation should always be kept. Consequently, it is worthwhile to send letter mail as registered mail. In the event of a dispute, the receipt serves as proof of the announcement of intent to the tour operator. In an emergency, it can be legally asserted.
Flight delays aren’t just annoying because you mess up your schedule and you may have to spend several more hours in the uninviting environment of an airport. It is also often difficult to exercise one’s own passenger rights when it comes to compensation claims against the airline. You can get support in claiming your compensation from specialized providers such as AirHelp.
The European Union’s Air Passenger Rights Regulation awards passengers flight delay compensation in the event of significant delays, which can range from €250 to €600, depending on the route. The compensation claims for delays of more than three hours are divided as follows:
Short-haul flights (e.g. Mallorca) up to and including 1,500 kilometres: 250 euros in compensation
Medium-haul flight between 1,500 kilometers and 3,500 kilometers: 400 euros compensation
Long-haul flight outside the EU from 3,500 kilometers: 600 euros compensation (for a long-haul flight within the EU, maximum 400 euros compensation)
It is true that compensation claims can be asserted from a delay of three hours. A claim for compensation arises if connecting flights are missed as a result of the initial delay. If you are two hours late, you are entitled to a free supply of drinks and snacks, as well as access to free means of communication, especially e-mail and telephone. In the event of a delay of more than five hours, you have the right to withdraw from the trip with a full refund of the ticket price. If you still want to continue the journey and a flight to the desired destination is not possible until the next day, you are entitled to reimbursement of hotel costs. You can also reclaim the transfer costs to a hotel (there and back) from the airline.
The EU’s Air Passenger Rights Regulation applies not only to flights within the EU, but to all flights departing from the EU, regardless of the location of your airline. If your flight departs from outside the EU, the regulation only applies if the selected airline is based within the EU. The EU regulation also applies to flights departing from Switzerland, Norway or Iceland. Note that especially in Switzerland, the European legal situation is not necessarily adopted and judges there often rule in favor of the airlines.
If the EU Passenger Regulation does not apply, your compensation claims are often in a bad position, as comprehensive regulations such as those in the EU usually do not exist. Most airlines have developed their own regulations that regulate how to proceed in the event of significant flight delays and under what circumstances the affected traveler may be able to get money back. If your flight starts outside the EU and the airline you have chosen is based in a third country, then it is worth taking a look at the airline’s general terms and conditions.
What to consider when claiming compensation
Only about 2/3 of the flights delayed by more than three hours in the EU are entitled to compensation from the airline. Whether you can claim compensation depends on whether the airline itself is responsible for the delay. If this is not the case, e.g. in the event of unusual storms or bird strikes, there is no claim for compensation against the airline. Important: Staff strikes are also usually attributed to these “extraordinary circumstances”.
Special case: cancellation of a flight as a result of the COVID19 pandemic
If your flight has been cancelled due to national measures to contain the COVID19 pandemic, the EU Air Passenger Rights Regulation No. 261/2004 stipulates that the airline must refund the full ticket price to the customer within seven days. Reimbursement is often made in the form of vouchers. However, this form of reimbursement is only permissible with the passenger’s documented written consent. Since airlines want to retain their customers, the vouchers often have a value that is higher than the price of the original tickets. You have to weigh up whether you want to accept the voucher or ask for your money back. If you accept the voucher, you must expect that it could expire in the event of the airline’s insolvency . If you insist on a refund of the money, you may have to deal with some bureaucracy if the airline does not agree to the repayment immediately.
Although air travel conditions have now largely returned to normal, this point could become more relevant again with the emergence of new and possibly more dangerous variants of the pandemic coronavirus.
What do I need to do to claim my rights after a significant delay to my flight?
In the event of a delay caused by the airline, you have various rights at your disposal, Image: David Prado Perucha / shutterstock
If you would like to claim financial compensation in the event of a delay to your flight, you should consider a few points right from the start, the following of which will later help you to claim your legally guaranteed passenger rights.
Already at the airport, you should have the delay documented with its exact duration or the reason for the cancellation of your flight by the airport staff. Keep proof of financial expenses for drinks and snacks. It is also advisable to actively approach other passengers and ask them for their address or at least a reachable telephone number, so that you have witnesses later. This can be especially important if there is a legal dispute with the airline.
If you wish to make a claim for compensation, please send a letter by post (ideally registered mail + acknowledgement of receipt) to the airline’s branch in your country, preferably by registered mail. In the case of package tours, the claim must be addressed to the tour operator.
In this letter, list exactly at what time the flight should have taken off at which location, when and at what destination the flight should have arrived. Furthermore, you inform them of the delay with which the flight ultimately took place.
By following the tips described here, you have a good chance of being able to enforce your rights against the airline.
Simply be out and about with the whole family, easily integrate the baby into leisure activities and use parental leave, for example, to go on a long journey. This is more or less the idea of many enthusiastic travellers who become parents. But not only travel fans, who are often on the road anyway, want a nice vacation with the baby. Of course, the offspring should also accompany their parents on the classic annual vacation, and many questions arise: When can a baby travel? Where is the best place to travel, and which places do you prefer to avoid? What do you have to consider when organizing, and how is traveling with baby really? We have compiled the most important answers.
Theoretically, a baby can be on the road with its parents immediately after birth. Quite a few babies are born while traveling and are then right there. In practice, however, it is not for nothing that the first weeks after a birth are called “postpartum”. Mom and child should rest and arrive in their new life. However, if you really want to, you can also go on a trip right away.
During the flight you can devote yourself entirely to the baby, Image: Tomsickova Tatyana / shutterstock
Most airlines allow children from one to two weeks of age. Whether this is the right time for a long-distance trip by plane is up to parents to decide for themselves. However, caution is advised, because of course there are not only many people on the move at airports, but also pathogens. And babies’ immune systems are still developing.
It’s a little less complicated by train or car. Especially in your own car or camper, you can enjoy the greatest possible freedom. Provided that the baby likes to lead along.
Which places are recommended, which are better avoided with a baby?
Actually, you can travel with a baby to almost any place in the world, because wherever people live, babies are born. Of course, you will prefer certain places and avoid others so as not to put yourself and your family in unnecessary danger. An overview:
When traveling with a baby for the first time, it is best to choose destinations where you already know your way around, because the new life as a family is exciting enough. You don’t necessarily have to deal with a new environment.
It is an advantage if the climatic conditions at the destination are similar to those at home. So you don’t travel with a baby to the coldest or hottest places in the world. The rainy season with its continuous rainfall and extreme humidity should also be avoided.
Destinations for which a travel warning has been issued are better avoided. As a family, you are much more vulnerable than when you are traveling alone.
Extreme altitudes are also not recommended if you do not live in such an area anyway.
In some places in this beautiful world, certain vaccinations are needed. Many of them cannot yet have a baby, and for this reason should not travel to such places.
What do you have to think about when you travel with your baby?
It depends a little on where you travel and how long you will stay there. On the one hand, it’s about everything you need for the trip itself. It’s hard to rummage in your suitcase on the road, so you have to have things at hand. This is all the baby would need at home, i.e. bottles, diapers, creams, spare clothes and pacifiers. The same applies to the stay itself, although it always depends a little on where you are going. Are you vacationing in a European country and can you even access the proven diaper brand? Or are you far away and have to expect that there are unusual animal species in the jars of baby porridge?
There is one more thing to consider, and that is the necessary documents if you are traveling abroad. Is the health insurance suitable, is the child healthy, does the other parent, if not present, agree to the trip? If you want to have a good overview, you can download a checklist for the flight here. Of course, it also applies to other long-distance journeys, such as by train.
What is it really like to travel with a baby?
Babies don’t always sleep as relaxed when traveling as they do here, Image: Jeremie86HUN / shutterstock
On Instagram and travel blogs you can always see beautiful pictures of relaxed parents and sleeping or smiling babies while traveling. They sleep in the back seat of the car, they marvel from the train window, they relax on the plane. One thing you should know before you go on a trip with a baby: Your own child can quickly throw a spanner in the works and make all the beautiful pictures ad absurdum. Every child has their own personality and the trips they enjoy can be a real surprise.
Although most children like driving, not all of them do. Some cry non-stop, which can make a road trip an ordeal. Or maybe it’s just the car seat that pinches in one place, a problem that can be solved quickly. Some babies fall asleep in the hustle and bustle, others are already annoyed (and make this known loudly) when the radio in the supermarket is too loud. While one baby really likes to be pushed through the world in a stroller, another is outraged when it has to lie alone somewhere and wants to be carried all the time.
So if you want to travel with your baby, you should first get to know it properly and try out which situations it accepts well and which ones affect it. Accordingly, you can choose your destinations, as well as the activities on site and also the type of arrival. What speaks against a few months Hiking to celebrate in the home environment when the child is slumbering in the carrier for it? As it grows up, its tolerance for new situations also grows, which it can get to know again and again through parents who love to travel.
South Tyrol, also known as Alto Adige, has its very own charm. For decades, the region has attracted countless visitors and captivated them. The ski resorts in the mountains, the hiking trails in the Dolomites, the quaint little villages and the famous wine route with its beautiful cities of Bolzano, Bressanone and especially Merano inspire every traveller.
It’s all about the accommodation: wellness and relaxation
If you long to unwind, Merano is the right place for you. The topic of wellness is very important here and in many hotels exclusive spa treatments, hay baths and massages await you. Swimming pools and lovingly furnished rooms for well-being invite you to complete relaxation, such as in the wellness hotel in Scena/Schenna. With the fantastic view of Merano , it is easy to endure here and the worries of everyday life are quickly forgotten. It is not for nothing that Merano is a spa town that has been chosen by many as a favourite destination for relaxation. With around three hundred days of sunshine a year, which Merano can proudly call its own, it is guaranteed to be a success.
The highlights of Merano
The botanical garden, Image: Stefano Ember / shutterstock
Many visitors to Merano are repeat offenders, as they are always drawn to the enchanting city with its special flair. In Merano, history meets tradition and modernity and thus unfolds many possibilities to sweeten the day.
The architecture of the houses in the oldest part of the city, the Steinach district , or the famous Merano arcades with their restaurants, bars, shops and their history, which dates back to the Middle Ages, leave a lasting impression. Every single house in the alleys of the city has a story and is worth a photo.
From the Powder Tower you have a breathtaking view of the whole of Merano with its parish church and the mountains in the background. Not far away, walking along the Tappeinerweg , you will find the public herb garden, which is definitely worth a visit. If you are already enthusiastic about the diverse flora here, you are guaranteed to find your favourite place in the city in the botanical garden .
Also worth seeing on rainy days
The river Passer flows through Merano, Image: andrea vicentini / shutterstock
If the weather doesn’t play along, you are still in good hands in Merano, because there are also many opportunities to get to know the city protected from rain or cold. A visit to the thermal baths of Merano can be a relaxing change that perfectly complements the wellness holiday. The city’s museums also invite you to discover. Trauttmansdorff Castle, for example, not only has beautiful gardens to offer, but also houses the Tourism Museum. The most important museum, the Merano City Museum in the historic and impressive building of the Palais Mamming, should also be on the bucket list. In the restored halls of the baroque palace, but also in the new annex, which was partly driven into the rock of the Küchelberg, you can learn more about the exciting history of Merano and view the large collection of magnificent exhibits.
Excursion to Merano and environs
Not only the city itself, but also its surroundings make Merano the perfect holiday destination. A mild climate all year round, delicious Mediterranean dishes and a culture in which German and Italian are mostly spoken invite you to discover and adventure. For example, you can go forest bathing with the coach and psychologist Martin Kiem, visit the mountains or discover the Alpine Road of Romanticism.
The many small exciting places in Merano and Environs, for example Scena, Lagundo, Naturs or Dorf Tirol, are also not far discovered and all have their own beautiful corners and enchant their visitors in no time at all. The landscapes, often characterized by endless vines and different shades of green, bordered by the majestic mountains, allow you to breathe a sigh of relief and pause. The sights of the region are often underestimated and forgotten treasures. The Gaul Gorge near Lana, the South Tyrolean Sculpture Trail, the mausoleum in Scena or the Ultner Urlarchen are just a few of the many possibilities that are offered on a trip to Merano and Environs.
Delicious wines even off the wine route
Merano is not located directly on the famous Wine Route, but delicious wine is still grown everywhere. Along the Tappeinerweg within the city or from the Powder Tower, you could already visit the first vines within the city. But even at the gates of Merano there are various wineries in magnificent buildings that almost look like small castles and in which the particularly tasty varieties for which South Tyrol is so famous are grown over many generations. In the meantime, more and more young winegrowers are taking over the business and giving the venerable tradition a modern touch. Those who set out to visit the wineries can also often take part in guided tours and tastings. The perfect addition to your wellness holiday.
An active holiday is a wonderful change from the frequent sitting in everyday office life. If you want to get to know great regions and become active, you don’t necessarily have to travel far away.
Germany has a variety of beautiful holiday regions to offer, which invite you to get active and explore the fascinating nature. From farm holidays to hiking holidays to city trips and trips to the sea, everything is open to holidaymakers. We present some of the most beautiful destinations for active holidaymakers.
A great holiday doesn’t have to go beyond national borders
One of the great strengths of Germany as a travel destination is that there are almost every conceivable holiday region here. If you are longing for a holiday in the mountains, you will find what you are looking for in the diverse German mountains and the North Sea and Baltic Sea are ideal for a holiday by the sea. At the same time, Germany is a very nature-loving country. From cycling and hiking trails to farms and nature reserves, there are numerous options to get in touch with nature on holiday.
If you want to have a great holiday time, you don’t necessarily have to book a holiday abroad. In Germany, there is a considerable number of accommodations that are suitable for very different target groups. Some hotels are geared towards families and offer an interesting program for children of different ages. Others have a wellness character, while others focus on sporting activities. Through a targeted selection, you can find accommodation that fully meets your own requirements.
Farm holidays
A farm holiday is one of the most popular types of travel for families in Germany. People find it great to get in touch with nature during their holidays and to get to know rural life up close. Different farms each offer different activities where you can have a good time during your holiday. Many travellers opt for activities such as a holiday on the Golchen farm because it combines rustic cosiness with beautiful nature and lovable animals.
A stay on a farm can be arranged in many different ways. Some like to get to know the region around the farm and to take a variety of walks or excursions by bike. Others would like to lend a hand themselves and muck out a stable, feed the animals or do other tasks that arise on a farm. For families with children, it is a good idea to choose a farm that is home to a wide variety of animal species. Goats can be petted, horses ridden and played with the farm dog.
Discover the power of nature on German hiking trails
Relaxing in touch with nature is easy on Germany’s hiking trails, Image: Corri Seizinger / shutterstock
There are around 300,000 km of hiking trails in Germany. These each have their own character and charm and are therefore suitable for different target groups. Some hiking trails are specially designed for athletes and are correspondingly challenging. Here it is advisable to have high-quality equipment with you. There are also adventure hiking trails that are specially tailored to families with children. Here, the little ones can get active in nature, perform at their best in sports and learn a lot about the local flora and fauna. Other hiking trails lead along attractive bodies of water and are ideal for leisurely walks. There are rest stations and benches on many hiking trails, so that there are always enough breaks to be taken.
Many active holidaymakers are enthusiastic about a hiking holiday. Here they have the opportunity to come into close contact with nature and breathe in the excellent air in the German forests . The individual hiking trails differ depending on the state in which they can be found. The Goldsteig in Bavaria offers the opportunity to get to know the culture of the southern state directly. The Upper Lusatian Mountain Trail in Saxony is also characterized by its remarkable buildings and the Jägersteig in Baden-Württemberg offers a fantastic view of the Schluchsee.
City trips to German metropolises
If you are on holiday in Germany, you can visit a variety of metropolises worth seeing. Berlin is particularly worth mentioning. The German capital combines the flair of a world metropolis with great cosiness and an unmistakable charm. Munich is also worth a visit. The Bavarian capital is considered one of the most liveable cities in the world and offers a good insight into the Bavarian culture and the attitude to life of the people of this state.
If you really want to experience something during your holiday, you should travel to Cologne during carnival time. Here, the Rhenish attitude to life is palpable and the locals welcome the tourists. Dresden is an immensely historic city where modernity and history go hand in hand. With Kiel, Schleswig-Holstein has an attractive city to offer that perfectly combines rurality and city life. There is the possibility to explore the various highlights of the individual cities in detail during your holiday. Likewise, on a city trip, you can head for very different metropolises to get as comprehensive a picture as possible of the German way of life.
A wonderful holiday by the sea
One of the best ways to go on holiday in Germany is to visit the sea. With the North Sea and the Baltic Sea , there are two great regions that allow visitors to immerse themselves in the world of the sea. While mudflat hiking is a real highlight on the North Sea, there are a variety of beautiful beaches on the Baltic Sea that are ideal for sports such as swimming, diving or motorboating . In addition, there are numerous North Sea and Baltic Sea islands such as Sylt, Norderney, Rügen and Usedom, which are definitely worth a visit.
Holidays in great depths and impressive heights
The Bavarian Forest is one of the most popular holiday regions in Germany. This is because there are a variety of activities here that are particularly popular with active holidaymakers. Thus, stalactite caves can be explored here, which is a real adventure for people of all ages. If you want, you can walk the treetop walks in Bavaria and see the magnificent nature from above. Last but not least, Bavaria is rich in thermal baths, which provide the necessary relaxation after the various activities.
Result
Germany has a lot to offer as a travel destination for active holidaymakers. It is important that travelers know exactly what kind of vacation they would like to experience. From high mountains to wide seas, Germany has everything to offer that makes a dream holiday. In addition, there are all kinds of holiday accommodation, from farms to hotels to bungalows, each of which has a different focus and has an individual charm.
Anyone can go on a winter holiday, but in the long run even skiing and snowboarding become boring. However, this does not mean that you have to cancel your winter holiday. There are still a lot of activities off the beaten track. Snow and ice have much more to offer. In addition, the most beautiful areas for your winter holiday in Europe make it very easy for you to occupy yourself off the slopes. We have summarised the best activities for your active winter holiday for you here.
In Europe , we can consider ourselves really lucky, because here we have some of the most beautiful winter sports resorts in the world. If you look at the Dolomites , for example. They offer several areas for enthusiastic winter sports enthusiasts.
Two of the most popular are Val Gardena and Alta Badia. Here you have the opportunity to practice winter sports on the Dolomites World Heritage Site . Treat yourself to a break in one of the wellness hotels in the Dolomites, which offer great relaxation and recreation programs.
In addition to the Dolomites, there are also other classic winter sports areas in this country, in France, Switzerland and Austria. However, it has a lot more to offer besides Ischgl. However, winter activity does not necessarily always have to be associated with an overnight stay. If you live near a ski resort, you can simply plan a day trip at the weekend to work out in the snow.
Cross country
Skiing in a different way – that’s cross-country skiing. On predetermined trails you can move comfortably on skis. This eliminates the rush of speed that you experience with regular skiing. However, this will give you much more time to enjoy the landscape and its surroundings.
However, cross-country skiing beginners should first get to grips with the sport. It may look easy, but the discipline is technically very demanding and exhausting. A wide variety of muscle groups, such as legs, arms and torso, as well as endurance are trained.
Hiking with snowshoes
You can really slow down on a hike with snowshoes. You are mainly out and about in deep snow and rather untouched nature. The snowshoes ensure that the weight of the hikers is evenly distributed on the surface and that they do not sink too deep during their steps.
In this sport, the equipment is very important. In addition to snowshoes, a warm snowsuit is essential. Since you often move around in untouched landscapes in the mountains, there is a risk of avalanches. Therefore, you should take appropriate precautions, for example with an avalanche backpack, a shovel, an avalanche transceiver and a probe.
Ice skating
Ice skating is now possible almost everywhere in larger and even smaller cities. In the corresponding ice rinks, beginners can rent skates and take their first steps on the ice.
Ice skating itself is a very good sport to train endurance. At the same time, the cardiovascular system is stimulated. In addition, coordination and the sense of balance are trained. Ice skating is particularly suitable for people with joint problems.
The gliding movements on the ice do not challenge the body as much as, for example, jogging, where every step causes a small impact shock.
Curling
Curling on a frozen lake, Image: Bernd Juergens / shutterstock
The so-called curling is a little more leisurely. However, this sport is still challenging, even if not so much physical effort is required. Two teams compete against each other.
Each team must try to glide their curling stones over an ice surface as close as possible to a set target. With the so-called curling broom, the speed of the stones as well as the distance they cover can be measured.
In curling, good hand-eye coordination and strategic thinking are particularly important. It is not for nothing that it is considered a precision sport.
Toboggan
Not only children will have fun with this winter sport, but also the adults. For tobogganing itself, you don’t need more than a sled. Ideally, it should be made of wood. Models made of plastic are simply less robust and can break down more quickly.
In ski resorts you will find specially marked toboggan runs where you can ride your sled. If you don’t want to travel that far, however, a snow-covered hill near you will do. However, tobogganing is not as easy as it looks. Above all, the control requires some practice, because it is done by shifting the weight.
Ice climbing
A breathtaking and equally dangerous winter sport is ice climbing. This is where the Dolomites come into play again, because the Val Travenanzes in the eastern Dolomites in particular offers great opportunities for ice climbers. There you will find a rock about 200 meters high and 400 meters wide, covered with various ice lines. Beginners in particular should not dare to climb the ice wall on their own, but should be guided by a mountain guide.
Swimming in the thermal baths
After so much excitement on the ice wall, you deserve a little relaxation. In addition to the wellness hotels in the Dolomites already mentioned, you can also relax in the various thermal baths. In sub-zero temperatures, you can swim outside in the wonderfully warm water. This relieves tension and gets the circulation going. This is a really relaxed way to bring an active winter holiday to a close.