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Tenerife – holiday paradise in the heart of the Canary Islands

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Picturesque hills with laurel and pine forests, which alternate with a wildly romantic volcanic landscape, fantastic beaches, historical monuments and a diverse cuisine characterize the Canary Island of Tenerife. The most populous island in Spain attracts sun worshippers, families and active holidaymakers year after year. Party-goers get their money’s worth at Playa de las Americas, while history lovers walk in the footsteps of the indigenous people, the Guanches. Traditional towns with quaint pubs and narrow, flower-filled streets invite you to take a stroll, and in the hinterland the majestic Mount Teide rises.

Picturesque natural scenery and relaxed beaches

Tenerife is an island born of fire. Visitors can see this especially near the fishing village of Garachio. The interesting rock formations were created by a volcanic eruption in the 18th century and formed natural pools with deep blue water in which it is wonderful to swim. The most famous fire-breathing mountain on the island is the Teide volcano. It erupted for the last time in 1909 and is now located in a national park.

The summit of Mount Teide is above the clouds and is a popular destination for hiking – provided you wear warm clothing. There are also many beaches that bear witness to Tenerife’s volcanic past, including Playa El Bollullo with its fine, black sand. But white sand can also be found on the coast around the island. The crystal clear waters are suitable for diving, for example to the Tabaiba, a shipwreck that is now home to an impressive underwater world. In addition, whales and dolphins are at home in the waters off the coast.

If you want to admire idyllic lakes and waterfalls , you should take a boat trip to the island of La Gomera . Visitors can also see the small island from the Barranco de Masca mountain range with its majestic gorges. On the other hand, guests can experience adventures underground in the Cueva del Viento cave with its cooled lava lakes and bizarre rock formations. A special landmark of Tenerife is the thousand-year-old tree with its gnarled trunk. It is also called the dragon tree because, according to legend, it germinated from a drop of dragon’s blood.

Cultural sights and museums

Tenerife, Teide
View of Mount Teide, Image: Mikadun / shutterstock

Many peoples and cultures have left their mark on Tenerife , and holidaymakers can understand this by visiting the numerous historical monuments. Among the most interesting are the Pirámides de Güímar, stone pyramids that were discovered in the 90s and whose purpose scientists have still not sufficiently clarified.

The city of San Cristóbal has an old town worth seeing. Many buildings, including Laguna Cathedral, date back to the 16th and 18th centuries. Millions of guests make the pilgrimage to the Basílica de Nuestra Señora de Candelaria with its golden altar every year, and visitors marvel at ornate Renaissance buildings in the small town of La Orotava with its narrow streets. Next to it is the Jardín de aclimatación. The Botanical Garden is home to a variety of exotic plants that were originally stored for acclimatization and then brought to Spain.

In addition to historical monuments, visitors to Tenerife will find a number of interesting museums. The Tenerife Espacio de las Artes (https://teatenerife.es/) mainly exhibits contemporary artists. You can learn more about the geography and flora and fauna of Tenerife at the Museo de la Naturaleza y el Hombre. Here, visitors also learn everything they need to know about the cultural history of the original inhabitants. If you’re interested in space travel and astrology, head to the Museo de la Ciencia y el Cosmos, which houses interactive exhibits and a planetarium.

Modern attractions and culinary delights in Tenerife

Tip: Also visit our article: The most beautiful beaches of Tenerife
For active holidaymakers and families with children , Tenerife offers a variety of exciting leisure activities. Southeast Asian flair spreads the Siam Park adventure pool. Spread over 48 acres, the water park features thrilling waterslides amid colorful Thai buildings like a palace and floating market. Visitors can experience even more bathing fun at Aqualand, which has slides and wave pools as well as a dolphinarium and a dolphin museum. Loro Parque Zoo is particularly known for its colorful parrots, but it is also home to other exotic animals such as sea lions, whales, tigers, chimpanzees and alligators. Water sports enthusiasts will get their money’s worth at El Médano beach, which is particularly popular with kitesurfers. And if you visit Tenerife in February, you should definitely experience the carnival in Santa Cruz. The whole city celebrates this festival with colourful parades and samba rhythms.

Canarian cuisine is known for its hearty dishes such as meat stews, boiled potatoes and spicy paprika sausage. But fish, seafood and squid are also served here. Of course, a glass of red wine should not be missing. Fortunately, the dry climate and the many sunny days ensure that the vines thrive magnificently on the wine terraces.

Verbier – A Valais mountain village of the world

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Verbier, a quaint mountain village located above the Val de Bagnes in the Swiss canton of Valais, attracts hikers and ski enthusiasts from all over the world. As part of the “Les Quatres Vallées”, the largest winter sports area in Switzerland, Verbier is referred to by connoisseurs as the world capital of mountain sports. Here you can find out why a visit to the cozy mountain village is worthwhile all year round.

Les Quatres Vallées – Four Valleys and One Vision

Verbier
Image: Alexander Chizhenok / shutterstock

The region “Les Quatres Vallées” (4-Vallées for short) includes six villages, including Nendaz, La Tzoumaz, Veysonnaz, Thyon, Les Collons, Les Masses, Bruson and Verbier. All six villages are located south of the Rhône and extend over four side valleys, which is why the region is called 4-Vallées (French for four valleys).

The 4-Vallées ski area, which is now connected, did not come into being overnight, but has developed over many decades from skiing in the individual areas. The region is now criss-crossed by a seamless network of slopes and lifts. The three pioneers of Swiss winter sports and mountain railway operators, Rodolphe Tissières, Michel Michelet and René Fournier, had been pursuing this vision since the 1970s and achieved a breakthrough in the unification of the valleys in 1976 through the association of existing mountain railways and the construction of additional cable cars. Meanwhile, the ski area around 4-Vallées is so large that one visit is not enough to explore the entire variety of slopes, which distinguishes the 4-Vallées from the other smaller ski resorts in Switzerland. Despite its dimensions, the entire area of the 4-Vallées with its total of 410 kilometres of slopes can be used with just one ski pass.

Verbier’s unique winter fun – with and without runners

With the first snowfall, Verbier is transformed into a paradise for winter sports. A cable car leads to the highest point of the ski area, the summit of Mont Fort, which is located at around 3,300 meters above sea level and offers a breathtaking view of the Matterhorn, Mont Blanc and the Grand Combin. From there, you have a free choice of how to get on on ski slopes, snowshoe trails, winter hiking trails and cross-country ski trails.

As one of the largest ski resorts in Switzerland, Verbier offers pure skiing fun on over 200 kilometres of slopes in the months from November to the end of April. Both absolute beginners and daring advanced skiers get their money’s worth here on blue slopes, mogul slopes and world-famous freeride routes. The mountain village is also a stage on the so-called “Haute Route”, a ski crossing along breathtaking high alpine glacier landscapes in the direction of Saas Fee and Zermatt – a must for lovers of long ski tours.

Numerous marked winter hiking trails make it possible to discover the landscape on foot. Accompanied by the winter sun, kilometre-long hikes lead through snow-covered forests and over gigantic sun terraces with breathtaking views to rustic mountain huts where you can relax with coffee, hot chocolate or tea. Particularly popular routes lead from Périn to Les Planards or from Les Ruinettes along a wide path through the Alps towards Alpage de la Chaux.

Verbier is also at the top of the world in terms of tobogganing. The toboggan run from Savoleyres to La Tzoumaz is the longest toboggan run in French-speaking Switzerland and offers fast-paced fun for young and old over 10 kilometres long and over 800 metres in altitude.

If you still haven’t had enough in the evening after the action on the slopes, hiking trails and the like, you can enjoy the varied après-ski offer and the aperitifs of Verbier.

Even in summer there is a lot going on here

Mont Fort
The Mont Fort, Image: mountainpix / shutterstock

Verbier is not only a winter sports mecca, but also offers pure fun in summer with its charming landscape on over 900 kilometres of hiking trails, 800 kilometres of mountain bike trails and perfect conditions for paragliders and climbers.

Verbier’s hiking trails stretch in the Val de Bagnes along the breathtaking backdrop of the Mont Blanc massif, Mont Velans and the Combins massif. Professional hikers can also explore the snow-covered mountain landscapes around Verbier in summer. And for those looking for something a little less action-packed, two golf courses and a sports club with sauna, tennis and squash facilities offer a weatherproof alternative.

If that’s still not enough, you get a huge range of international top events on top. In July, classical music lovers from all over the world come together at the 17-day Verbier Festival to forge a bond between old masters of classical music and talents from the younger generations against the backdrop of the magnificent Swiss Alps. Less cultural and more action is available on the Xtreme Verbier, the Freeride World Tour, where the world’s top freeride riders meet between March and April to reach for the world championship title.

… and it still remains cozy!

Despite the growth in tourism in recent years and the now about 4000 inhabitants, Verbier retains its village charm. Unlike surrounding ski resorts with a similar footfall, Verbier refrains from building huge hotels and instead remains true to the style of traditional slate-roofed chalets and small guesthouses.

Tirana – Albania’s diverse capital

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Albania is known for its numerous natural treasures and is often referred to as the wild Balkans. But not only the fantastically wild landscapes and the Mediterranean climate are worth a trip, but also the capital Tirana, which is well worth seeing. The vibrant capital attracts not only with an interesting history, but also with a wide range of cultural offerings, numerous sights and the Dajti National Park.

Tirana’s green side

View of Tirana on the Dajiti Express
View from the cable car of the Dajiti to Tirana, Image: PaulSat / shutterstock

The metropolis, port and university city of Tirana also inspires with its location. Tirana’s local mountain Dajti rises in the east of the city and gives its name to the Dajti National Park. In the particularly charming mountain landscape, there are traces of prehistoric settlements, remains of numerous fortifications, deep river valleys and the surrounding mountains.

The mountain is also often referred to as the balcony of Tirana, because it offers a fabulously beautiful view of the capital of Albania, which lies at the foot of the mountain. If you don’t want to miss the view, but don’t feel like an arduous ascent, you can easily reach the local mountain from the eastern outskirts of Tirana by cable car. However, the summit of Dajti cannot be climbed, because it is still a military restricted area today. Summiteers can alternatively climb the Maje e Tujanit.

Around the turbulent capital there are also beautiful river valleys and idyllic lakes. Lake Tirana is very popular in the large park, which is located on the southern edge of the city center and was artificially created in 1956. However, Fakra Lake, Kashar Lake and Paskuqan Lake are also popular with locals and tourists.

However, Albania has more to offer than just the capital Tirana. We therefore recommend Jörg Martin Dauscher’s declaration of love “111 reasons to love Albania”. Here you will find exciting and funny stories that are a pleasure to visit the Balkan country. It is best to order the book under the ISBN 978-3-86265-786-5 from your local bookseller

The sights of the charming port city of Tirana

Tirana is not only the political center of Albania, but also the cultural one. The area of today’s Tirana has been inhabited since the Paleolithic Age. Since then, today’s capital has experienced many ups and downs. Although the city has always played an important role thanks to its port, it was not until 1920 that it was designated as the capital. Today, Tirana is a big city and attracts visitors with the country’s largest museums, excellent art galleries and other cultural institutions such as the Palace of Culture, the State Opera and Ballet Theatre and the National Library. In particular, the National Historical Museum, the National Archaeological Museum and the National Art Gallery attract visitors from all over the world. But the botanical and zoological gardens of the metropolis are also extremely worth seeing. A visit to the Sky Tower is also a special experience, as there is a revolving restaurant here that offers a magnificent view of the city.

But there is also a lot to discover on a stroll through the city. Among other things, every visitor to Tirana should visit the equestrian statue in honor of Skanderbeg, a prince from the Albanian noble family of the Kastrioti. The equestrian statue can be found on the square of the same name. The prince became known for defending the Principality of Kastrioti against the Ottomans and is now considered an Albanian national hero who is revered throughout the country. Also worth seeing is the Et’hem Bey Mosque and, of course, the city’s landmark: a 35-metre-high tower built in 1830. Likewise, in Tirana there is the Monuemtal statue of the Mother of Albania, which every visitor to the city should have seen. Some stone arch bridges from the Ottoman period have also been preserved to this day, as well as castles and mosques. However, the most famous and impressive sight is the early Byzantine fortress Petrela. In addition, there are numerous city villas that are architecturally interesting and the Piramida, the pyramid-shaped building that once housed the Enver Hocha Museum. But in Tirana there are even the settlements, some of which were built illegally, with their prefabricated buildings, some of which were colorfully embellished by the artist and politician Edi Rama in a “painting action”.

Modern metropolis and forgotten traditions

Neighborhoods like Blloku stand for the modern and lively Tirana. This booming district is often referred to as the “playground of the young elite” and is characterised by boutiques, trendy restaurants, numerous cafés and bars. Tirana’s extreme growth in recent decades can be traced back to the rural exodus in Albania, as young people in particular are drawn to the capital to attend university and work here. While very old traditions are still maintained, especially in the mountain villages of Albania, they have long been forgotten in Tirana. Tirana has become a modern and cosmopolitan university city that offers excellent shopping opportunities, attractive cultural offerings and a varied nightlife. Albania’s capital presents itself as European and can certainly keep up with other metropolises.

The capital as a religious melting pot

The metropolis is also considered a religious melting pot, because the once Sunni-Islamic capital now has many inhabitants of other denominations and also many atheists who no longer belong to any religious community after the former communist rule. Tirana is the seat of the Grand Mufti of the Muslim community of Albania, but also the world centre of the Bektashi Order and the seat of the Catholic and Orthodox archbishops. A small Jewish community has also formed in the city and opened a synagogue, and communities of the Baha’i, the Ahmadiyya and the Jehovah’s Witnesses can also be found in the metropolis.

Culinary highlights in the capital

Albanian cuisine has a lot to offer, because it has been influenced by numerous nations and so Albanian cuisine is very Mediterranean and at the same time the oriental influences are unmistakable and the typical Balkan cuisine is also strongly represented. The Albanians are generally very hospitable and like to invite. Guests are more than well catered for here, as several dishes are usually served at once. The pita, which is prepared with a wide variety of fillings, is usually not to be missed.

But Trahana is also typical. Rice dishes with meat such as pilaf are just as much a part of Albanian cuisine as ayvar, cheese in all variations, flatbread and turshia (fried and then pickled vegetables). Soups and stews are also often served and there are also a wide variety of influences when it comes to desserts, as the spectrum ranges from baklava to pancakes. One of the most popular drinks is black tea, but mocha is also popular.

Top 7 Vacation Destinations for Poker Players

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Online poker is a great invention that brings together millions of people from all over the world to bluff, raise and make profits at any time and place. If you’re one of those people who stays up in front of your computer screen until the wee hours of the morning, you’ve probably thought about taking your poker passion outside of your living room.

If playing against someone on the other side of the world is part of what attracted you to
online poker
in the first place, why not combine the love of meeting new people, traveling, and playing poker by booking a fantastic poker vacation?

1. Las Vegas, Nevada | United States

Las Vegas, The Strip
THE STRIP in Las Vegas at night, Image: Philip Bird LRPS CPAGB / shutterstock

At the top of our list is the unique Las Vegas. Located in the American state of Nevada, this is the poker vacation you can only dream of. With over 32 casinos on the Las Vegas Strip and many more in the surrounding streets, you have a wide range of tables to choose from.

Binions Casino is a great place for beginners with tables starting at $2 and $4, while the pros out there will love “Bobby’s Room” at Bellagio, one of the best casinos in the world, which offers a range of high-limit games. Aside from poker, Las Vegas is quite simply one of the most incredible places in the world – as surreal as it is captivating.

2. Paradise Island, New Providence | Bahamas

If you want to play in front of one of the most beautiful backdrops in the world, look no further than Paradise Island in New Providence, Bahamas. This island is home to the world-famous Atlantis Casino, where Poker Star’s Caribbean Adventure takes place.

This casino offers you three poker variants, including Five Card, Three Card Progressive, and Ultimate Texas Hold’em Poker. If you’re taking your family with you, there are a whole host of water parks, nightly entertainment, and fantastic beaches to give you a well-deserved break from poker. There’s not much better than the combination of sun, sand, and serious poker!

3. Monte Carlo | Monaco

Monte Carlo – the original home of upscale gambling and perhaps the most glamorous place in the world. Whether you’re interested in the history of casinos or just a big Bond fan, this is where it all started. The iconic Monte Carlo Casino is a fantastic place for a poker holiday, as not only does it host the annual Grand Final of the European Poker Tour, but it also has a wide range of poker tables to suit all budgets.

The city itself offers a wealth of attractions that make a great poker vacation even better. Watch a Formula 1 race, stroll through the charming, money-drenched streets, or try one of Monaco’s many beaches and world-famous restaurants.

4. Macau | China

Those of you looking for a truly once-in-a-lifetime poker holiday should book your next flight to the Macau region of China. Dubbed the next Vegas, this place has become so popular that PokerStars has included it in its Asian Pacific Poker Tour.

There are plenty of casinos and poker rooms to choose from (most notably the Venetian), but the best action can be found at Casino Babylon and Casino Macau Palace, which offer a good selection of limits. This is an ideal poker holiday for the adventurous gambler who wants to visit an up-and-coming center of worldwide gambling.

5. Los Angeles, California | United States

Los Angeles, Hollywood Sign
The world-famous Hollywood sign Hollywood Sign, Image: Ingus Kruklitis / shutterstock

A poker vacation in the Californian city of Los Angeles combines Hollywood glamour, sun-drenched beaches and good, old-fashioned gambling. A special mention deserves Commerce Casino, supposedly the “largest poker casino in the world” with over 240 card tables to choose from.

If you’re looking to recover from the filth after successfully turning your online poker skills into cash, you’ll find the best there is in the shops on Rodeo Drive. If success fails to materialize, there’s still plenty to do: take the kids to Disneyland, enjoy some of the best surf spots in the world, and visit the Hollywood Walk of Fame to see some celebrity stars.

6. Barcelona, Catalonia | Spain

A poker holiday in Barcelona offers the perfect mix of great culture and impressive gambling opportunities. Try El Casino de Barcelona, which hosts the EPT at the end of August and has an excellent selection of poker tables, as well as a range of other card and slot games for your enjoyment.

Barcelona is a great place for a family holiday, where your loved ones will have the opportunity to enjoy wonderful art, majestic architecture and some of the best food in Europe.

7. San Jose, San Jose | Costa Rica

For a poker vacation in South America, you should head to San Jose, the capital of Costa Rica where most of the country’s casinos are located. The city used to be one of the main stops on the Latin American Poker Tour, and nearby Playa Conchal offers some of the best gambling opportunities in the country.

Hotel Del Rey has a great poker atmosphere, perfect for a game night after a day exploring Costa Rica’s beaches, rainforest and laid-back culture that makes the country so popular.

 

Syracuse – a walk through history

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Sicily – this island is without a doubt one of the most beautiful sides of Italy. It is embraced by a sometimes gentle and sometimes wild sea and blessed with an almost permanently serene sky. If you stroll through the ancient city of Syracuse in Sicily with your eyes open, you will embark on a journey into the past and thus into the varied history of this region. Before Syracuse became what it is today, Romans and Greeks were here. The holidaymaker follows in the footsteps of this era during a stay in this cheerful yet melancholic city.

The hometown of the genius Archimedes

Syracuse is also associated with the name of a historical figure. With that of the brilliant mathematician, designer and physicist Archimedes. Even though much of the Greek’s life remained hidden behind a veil, this man became a legend. Not least because he rendered outstanding services to Syracuse in the Second Punic War between the forces of Rome and Carthage by developing completely new throwing machines for his Sicilian hometown during the siege. Several centuries later, Syracuse replaced Constantinople as the capital of the Eastern Roman Empire, albeit only for a short time. This metropolis in the deep European south can look back on a rich history. And she is proud of the testimonies of past eras.

The statue of the Apostle Paul

The first traces of Syracuse have been found on the Ortygia peninsula. Here there was an abundant freshwater spring not far from the meandering rivers Ciana and Anapo, the Fonte Aretusa, which still bubbles today. The city was founded during the reign of the tyrant Dionysius, but the terrain of the so-called “quail island” Ortygia soon became too small to accommodate almost five hundred thousand people. But the ancient core of Syracuse is located in Ortygia, with the winding streets of a charming old town. Between the ruins of the Temple of Apollo and the historic harbor, there is haggling as always over the price of the fish caught. On the site of the former temple veneration for the deity Athena, a Christian church now rises on the cathedral square. Many devout Sicilians are convinced that the apostle Paul landed in Syracuse on his way to Rome . A statue has been dedicated to him in front of the cathedral.

The Old Town in the UNESCO List

Apollo Temple in the center of Ortigia, Syracuse
Apollo Temple in the center of Ortigia, Image: Jan Cattaneo / shutterstock

When Syracuse was almost completely destroyed by a devastating earthquake in 1693, the city was rebuilt in the Baroque style. Santa Maria delle Colonne, the main church of the city, was created as an amazing architectural mixture of different elements. Here you will find a mixture of temples of antiquity as well as Norman architectural styles and the perfect devotion to the Baroque. Inside the cathedral, the beautiful mosaic work and the four-metre-high silver statue of Saint Lucia are remarkable. The wooden roof from the 16th century has been preserved. In the evening hours, the Piazza del Duomo in the old town develops a very unusual flair and could serve as a cinematic backdrop with its palazzi. It was probably the collection of testimonies of different cultures that prompted UNESCO to include the entire historic center of Syracuse in the list of World Heritage Sites.

The famous “Ear of Dionysius”

Visitors to the city are often overwhelmed by the power and grandeur of Syracuse. After all, this metropolis was a kind of cosmopolitan city on the Mediterranean for a long time. At the latest when visiting the archaeological park Neapolis, the guest gets an impression of the former dimensions. In addition to the huge amphitheater with its once 15,000 seats, the so-called “Ear of Dionysius” is a visitor magnet in the park. This is a cave in the limestone. The entrance to this 65-metre-deep grotto actually resembles a human ear and has always been the birthplace of various legends. The cave is part of the “Latomia del Paradiso”, a quarry where material was extracted for the construction of the ancient city. Friedrich Schiller was inspired by the “Ear of Dionysius” to write his ballad “Die Bürgschaft”.

Refuge of the early Christians

Roman Amphitheater, Syracuse
Roman Amphitheater, Image: Michele Ponzio / shutterstock

This city by the sea breathes history with its archaeological sites, but also with its museums worth seeing. The city dedicates the Museo Arkimedeion to Archimedes, the most famous son of Syracuse. The mathematician’s discoveries are the focus here, and because all this has been prepared in an understandable way, a visit to this house is also recommended for young people. In the ancient area called “Tyche”, the path of the visitors leads into the underworld. Not far from Viale Teocrito, the famous catacombs of Syracuse were built. They were once the refuge of the early Christians, who had to hide from the Roman soldiers. However, the fact that the apostle Paul visited this site could be part of the legend. The fact is that in these catacombs the Christians laid their dead to rest. The Basilica of San Martino is one of the oldest places of worship in Syracuse. It dates back to the 6th century BC and is located opposite Palazzo Bellomo. And if you have studied the ancient sites on the Ortigia peninsula, you should definitely visit the Castello Maniace. It was the Byzantines who started building this house as early as the 11th century. However, the Castello was not completed until the reign of Frederick II.

Best Tours in Nepal

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The Kingdom of Nepal offers a variety of breathtaking tours for every requirement. Whether you are looking for a strenuous climb or want to hike leisurely through the countryside – there is something for everyone here! In the following article, we will introduce you to the best trekking tours in Nepal.

Why go on a trekking tour in Nepal?

Many people dream of traveling the world and discovering the most breathtaking places in the world. If you are looking for an unforgettable experience, then a trip to Nepal is for you. The landscape of Nepal is unique and the Nepalese are extremely hospitable. On a trekking tour you can experience Nepal up close and be enchanted by the beauty of the Himalayas.

The best trekking regions in Nepal

Nepal offers countless opportunities for trekking tours in beautiful nature. The best regions for trekking in Nepal are the Annapurna region, the Everest area, the Langtang Valley, and the Mustang area. Each of these regions has its own special features and offers hikers unforgettable experiences.

The Annapurna region is a popular destination for trekking tourists as it offers some of the best hiking trails in Nepal. The most beautiful trekking routes in the Annapurna region are the Annapurna Circuit and the Annapurna Sanctuary Trek. Both tours take you to viewpoints of the region, where you can admire the spectacular scenery of Nepal.

The Everest area is also a very popular destination. The best time for a trekking tour to the Everest area is from March to May and from September to November. During these times, the weather is best for a tour to the higher regions of the Himalayas. The most used trekking route in the Everest area is the Everest Base Camp Trek, which takes you to the foot of the highest mountain on earth, Mount Everest.

There is also the Langtang Valley. This valley is only a day’s walk from Everest Base Camp and therefore also offers spectacular views of Mount Everest.

The Mustang area is one of the more remote areas of Nepal and therefore less visited than the other areas mentioned above. However, the Mustang area is absolutely worth seeing and offers great views of the surrounding countryside.

The best time for a trekking tour in Nepal

In Nepal , you can basically go trekking all year round. However, each season has its advantages and disadvantages. The best time for a trekking tour in Nepal is from September to November and from March to May. During these months, temperatures are pleasant and rainfall is low. Many tourists come to Nepal during this time, so you should book early or hire a tour operator to reserve a tour. Because in the off-season, it can be difficult to find a tour operator for hiking tours.

Tips for a successful trekking tour

A man on the Annapurna circuit trek in Nepal, Image: MOROZ NATALIYA / shutterstock

In order for the trekking tour to be a complete success, a few points should be considered. First of all, it is important to prepare well for the exertions of the strenuous tour. That means you have to be physically and mentally fit. It is also advisable to inform yourself about the culture and mentality of the people in Nepal in order to avoid misunderstandings.

You should also be prepared for the weather, because in the Himalayas there can always be unpredictable weather conditions. Equally important is choosing the right equipment. This includes comfortable clothing and sturdy shoes. Furthermore, you should take enough food and drinks with you and have basic medical equipment ready for emergencies.

Result

Trekking in Nepal is a dreamlike experience. The hiking tours offer breathtaking views, interesting cultures and excellent opportunities to enjoy nature. If you decide to go trekking in Nepal, you will have an unforgettable experience that will stay with you for the rest of your life.

6 tips: How to keep fit during your vacation

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Lounging on the sofa at home on vacation and being really lazy is out of the question for you. You want to use your free time and do something good for your fitness. But what?

We provide you with tips and tricks about fitness on holiday.

6 fitness tips for your holiday

1. Just don’t sag!

Holidays are there for relaxation. At the same time, the free time also serves to finally do everything for which there is otherwise no time. Maybe you run a lot at work or are physically well exercised during work. If you then have time off, it would be fatal for your organism and metabolism to just hang around.

By the way, the same applies if you are a professional frequent sitter. Then you should also use the vacation for exercise and compensate for deficits.

2. Always nice and slow!

If you haven’t done much for your fitness for the rest of the year, you can’t run off and exhaust yourself on the first day of your vacation . This is also harmful to the body and you would probably quickly lose the joy
of fitness on vacation
.

Even if you only have a week or two, you should always start slowly and then increase.

3. Sensible fitness for the holiday

If you stay at home, you can use the holiday to take a leisurely walk at first. The short time will not be enough to change much in your fitness, but it can be a start ! If you enjoy it, you should practice running beyond your vacation. It’s certainly not true that you don’t have time for it for the rest of the year.

If you really want to be fit, you have to do something for it all year round.

On holiday, you can take part in short fitness seminars, special running groups or taster courses in a sport of your choice.

4. Stay fit while traveling

You are a sporty person overall, train on the treadmill on your desk in the office and disappear into the gym after work. Then it’s time for a vacation, beach, a cruise, relaxation – but doing nothing is out of the question for you!

You have many opportunities to perfectly combine fitness and vacation. Many resorts, ships and sports hotels offer great combinations of high-quality sports and relaxation.

Last but not least, you can get out your running shoes and jog a few kilometers almost anywhere in the world.

5. Use your vacation to lose weight

If you want to use your vacation for a fitness program that should finally melt a few pounds, special courses and seminars are a great thing.

Fitness studios, nutritionists and sports coaches offer one- to two-week programs in which you will learn everything about fitness, a balanced diet and your options for a fit future.

You will learn how to structure your training to suit your constitution, why there are extra running shoes for heavy runners and what tricks you can use to overcome your weaker self.

6. Use your holiday for fitness shopping

For months you have been thinking about buying a Sportstech F37 treadmill or a rowing machine, but somehow you always lacked the time and the nerves. The holiday is the perfect time to finally read up on the offers, look at them, try them out and make a good purchase.

If a fitness fair is taking place somewhere near you during this time, this is of course the best opportunity to inform yourself comprehensively and maybe make a bargain or two.

Result

There are many ways to use the holiday for your health and fitness. Despite all the good intentions, fitness newcomers in particular should proceed prudently on vacation and not overwhelm themselves. If you are already fit, you can use the vacation effectively to make up for everything that your working hours do not allow.

Warnemünde – Coastal holiday at the historic Baltic Sea resort near Rostock

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There are few places in Germany where beach recreation close to the sea is as directly possible within a big city as in Warnemünde. The Baltic Sea resort is one of the most beautiful and famous districts of the Hanseatic city of Rostock. If you want to combine inner-city sightseeing with coastal flair close to the beach on the Baltic Sea, Warnemünde is the right place for tourism!

Warnemünde – Historic coastal settlement as a Baltic Sea resort

Hanseatic City of Rostock, Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania
Hanseatic City of Rostock, Image: Oleksiy Mark / shutterstock

Visible from afar, the famous Teepott and the lighthouse of Warnemünde are enthroned above the face of the beach region. Today a tourist highlight in the north of the Hanseatic city of Rostock, the striking coastal panorama of Warnemünde geographically accompanies the Warnow River as it flows into the Baltic Sea. The popular Baltic Sea resort in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania is actually home to only a fraction of Rostock’s more than 200,000 inhabitants: almost 6,000 people live here. But Warnemünde is the place-to-be when it comes to idyllic beach life and the tourist holiday highlights in Rostock.

Warnemünde is said to have been settled by Frisians and Lower Saxony as early as 1100, and in the 14th century the small village was incorporated into the then city of Rostock. The district of Warnemünde and the city are thus linked by a long history – today the northern city region is one of the most beautiful and popular seaside resorts on the Baltic Sea. In terms of tourism, there are multifaceted highlights to see here, not only the beach, tea pot and lighthouse ensure this. Regular events such as the Warnemünde Week ensure a mostly lively holiday experience for all those who are looking for a mixture of relaxation and activities here. In terms of tourism, Warnemünde is one of the most fascinating places on the Baltic Sea.

Teepott, lighthouse and co. – Landmarks and sights of Warnemünde

Alter Strom in Warnemünde
The old river in Warnemünde, Image: Kirk Fisher / shutterstock

If you take a photo of the beach panorama near Warnemünde, you will notice two buildings for a reason: Teepott and Leuchtturm. Together, they form the modern landmark of the Baltic Sea resort, which also has a sandy beach about 150 metres wide and a distinctive beach promenade. The striking lighthouse of Warnemünde towers over 36 metres above the local coastal panorama. As early as the 14th century, there is said to have been an early form of a lighthouse here, which still consisted of a simple wooden frame and a fire basket. Today’s Warnemünde lighthouse was completed in 1898 and has shaped the scenic face of the Warnemünde coastal region ever since. Today, the lighthouse not only fulfils its original function, but also serves as a popular vantage point to see Warnemünde in its entirety in good weather.

In the immediate vicinity of the lighthouse is the ominously named Teepott, a circular building whose origins date back to 1968. Especially among the otherwise mostly uniform construction methods in the GDR era, the unusual building on the coast stood out early on. As early as the 20s of the 20th century, there was a round tea pavilion in the architectural style of the New Building on the site. Today it is assumed that the name Teepott was inspired by the predecessor building. There is now a restaurant here, and the Teepott forms a tandem of Warnemünde’s landmarks together with the neighbouring lighthouse.

In addition to these two obvious sights and the beach, a long lakeside promenade awaits you on site, where neoclassical villas and hotels are grouped in the striking seaside resort architecture of the Baltic Sea. In striking green, the small west pier welcomes travellers at the harbour entrance. The red and white east pier near Warnemünde is considered a counterpart to the coastal structure built in 1985. The waters on the coast of the Baltic Sea resort are shaped by the Old Stream and the New Stream, and there is also a fish market on the historic central pier today – for those interested in fresh or smoked fish. An insight into the history of the region is provided by the small Warnemünde Museum of Local History, which provides information about seafaring and coastal life. If you are interested in the outstanding buildings near Warnemünde, you will not only come across an old Dutch mill from 1866, but also the historic Warnemünde church from the 19th century with its neo-Gothic façade. Sightseeing in Warnemünde promises to be the opposite of a boring affair.
Festivities, excursion destinations and co. – more reasons to visit Warnemünde

The supra-regional focus on Warnemünde is not only of a tourist nature – passionate sailors and advocates of a wide variety of leisure activities are also regularly attracted to the northern city region of Rostock. This is also ensured by festivities and events such as the Warnemünde Week and the Hanse Sail. The Warnemünde Week is an annual sailing event with international appeal, with the usually more than one million visitors not only drawn to the sailing regattas, but also to the traditional costume parades and the general festival flair of the weekly event. Gigantic sailing ships also present themselves at the Hansesail, which unfolds in Warnemünde in August of each year. Instead of modern sailing regattas, the focus here is on traditional sailing ships and gigantic multi-masters.

What has not yet been sufficiently talked about: the Baltic Sea. The natural highlight on the coast of Warnemünde characterizes the entire northern region of Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania and the neighboring states. In sunny weather, you can enjoy a relaxing beach holiday on the long beach of the Baltic Sea. If you want to enjoy the coastal flair, Warnemünde is the right place for you: not only does the beach area extend over two kilometres, the more than 150-metre-wide beach is one of the widest beaches on the North German Baltic Sea coast. If you stay at Warnemünde for tourism, it is also not far to the historic city centre of Rostock – with highlights such as Kröpeliner Straße, St. Peter’s Church and Rostock Zoo .

Cruises in the Mediterranean – the classics among cruises

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A Mediterranean cruise is a true classic. Nowhere else in the world can you find so many historically significant cities, culturally outstanding sights and fascinating natural wonders close together. A cruise in the Mediterranean is always a journey along the old transport routes back in history to the beginnings of European culture.

Odysseus, as Homer described it, spent ten years in the eastern Mediterranean. On his odyssey, he crossed the Greek islands and survived legendary adventures before returning home. Things are not quite as dramatic on a Mediterranean cruise in 2023 . On the modern and magnificently equipped cruise ships, you can discover the fantastically beautiful Mediterranean world in a completely relaxed way. The culinary diversity of Mediterranean cuisine invites you to enjoy it in front of a spectacular scenic backdrop.

Spoilt for choice

The incredible beauty of the cultural and scenic sights cannot be captured in a single trip. A choice must be made. The Mediterranean Sea is perfect for a cruise in all its facets. The Mediterranean offers enough experience for several boat trips. Every trip is an experience in itself. But where to start?

The Mediterranean Sea is an inland sea connected to the Atlantic Ocean by the Strait of Gibraltar. It is a tributary sea of the Atlantic Ocean. Italy separates the western from the eastern Mediterranean, which in turn are divided into various bays and tributaries. So the first decision will be whether the cruise should take place in the western or eastern Mediterranean.

The Western Mediterranean

The western Mediterranean is located between France or Spain and Italy. To its north is the Ligurian Sea with the Gulf of Genoa. Further southwest, near Spain, lies the Balearic Sea. To the southeast, closer to Italy, is the Tyrrhenian Sea with the Gulf of Naples and the islands of Capri and Ischia.

The entire Mediterranean region has been dominated by seafaring for thousands of years. The economic, power-political, religious and cultural developments of the countries bordering the Mediterranean would not have been conceivable without seafaring. The port cities and sights that can be visited on the routes are correspondingly impressive.

Routes in the Western Mediterranean

Exploring the Mediterranean by cruise ship, Image: ©PONANT

Routes in the north of the western Mediterranean can, for example, start on the Italian mainland in Rome or Florence. The port of Rome is located in Civitavecchia. From Florence, the port in the city of La Spezia in Liguria is served. Starting from northern Italy, they often head towards France to Ajaccio in Corsica. The journey continues to Barcelona. They will then return to Italy with stays on the Balearic Islands, perhaps via Ibiza or Palma de Mallorca. Such a shipping route leads across the Ligurian and Balearic Seas.

A slightly longer route covers the southern part of the western Mediterranean. It runs from the Balearic Sea to the Strait of Sicily via the Tyrrhenian Sea and includes a stop at each of the major islands. Not only cathedrals or historically grown old towns can be visited, but also spectacular natural wonders such as Mount Etna, the highest active volcano in Europe. Such a route could include the following port cities: Ibiza and Palma de Mallorca, Ajaccio in Corsica, Cagliari in Sardinia, Valletta in Malta, Palermo and Messina in Sicily. The beginning of such a tour could be Rome. Naples as the end of the trip offers some highlights: past the islands of Ischia and Capri to a visit to Pompeii at the foot of Vesuvius.

The Eastern Mediterranean

The eastern Mediterranean between Italy and the Balkan countries is better known as the Adriatic Sea. South of the Adriatic, between Italy and Greece, lies the Ionian Sea. Between Greece and Turkey is the Aegean Sea. Further south, between Crete and North Africa, lies the Libyan Sea and east of it is the Levantine Sea. The latter is the easternmost part of the Mediterranean and stretches from Libya and Egypt past Israel and Lebanon to Turkey.

Routes in the Eastern Mediterranean

View of Dubrovnik
View of Dubrovnik, Image: Dreamer4787 / shutterstock

The Adriatic Sea is a classic cruise destination. The many bays with their wonderful landscapes, historic old towns and cultural highlights invite you to get to know them. Adriatic routes often start in Venice, Trieste or Ravenna and lead to Croatia, especially Rijeka, Zadar or Dubrovnik. Often an Adriatic cruise also includes Bari in southern Italy, Kotor in Montenegro and Corfu in Greece.

A longer cruise leads from the Adriatic Sea into the Ionian Sea to the islands between Greece and Italy. The following places are often visited: Argostoli on Kefalonia, Katakolon on the Peloponnese for a visit to ancient Olympia. From Greece, it will then go to Calabria in southern Italy, for example to Crotone in Calabria or Catania in Sicily.

Cruises in the Eastern Mediterranean can combine destinations in the Ionian Sea with those in the Aegean Sea. There are countless islands in the Aegean Sea. Crotone or Catania can be the starting points for such a route. Corfu and Piraeus are often called. Piraeus is part of Athens as a port city, where a trip to visit the Acropolis is an absolute must. The port city of Kusadasi in Turkey is also a popular excursion destination. Santorini and Crete are among the classic destinations of a cruise in the eastern Mediterranean.

Fascinating routes in the southern Aegean start in Istanbul and partly lead along the Turkish Mediterranean coast. Destinations of such a tour are, for example, Izmir, Bodrum, Mykonos and Piraeus. Turkey offers a tremendous variety of excursion destinations for travelers interested in history and culture. Troy was once located on the Turkish Mediterranean coast, the starting point of Odysseus’ ten-year odyssey.

Flight Delay Compensation

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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.

What rights do I have if my flight is delayed?

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?

Rights in the event of flight delays
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.