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Perugia – historic and cosmopolitan metropolis of Umbria

PatrickJullien
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Perugia – historic and cosmopolitan metropolis of Umbria

Perugia is not only considered the largest, but also the most beautiful city in Umbria. The old town, located on a 450-metre-high hill, offers a view all the way to the mountain ranges of the Apennines. The city of 150,000 inhabitants is rich in history and presents itself as multifaceted, cosmopolitan and full of charm and character.

History at your fingertips

The history of Perugia dates back to the Paleolithic Age. A first settlement existed in today’s city area as early as the 11th century BC. The roots of the city can be traced back to the 6th century BC. At that time, the Etruscans founded the first larger settlement.

Perugia developed into one of the most important cities of the Etruscans thanks to its strategic position. On a tour of the city, visitors can still convince themselves of the former heyday. The historical sights are concentrated along the Piazza Grande.

If you want to learn more about the city’s history, you can do so at Perugia’s Archaeological Museum. In the monastery of San Domenico you can admire ceramics and tombstones from the Etruscan period.

Defiant walls and babbling fountains

View of the picturesque Piazza IV, Perugia
View of the picturesque Piazza IV, Image: Marco Rubino / shutterstock

The city center is surrounded by two rings of walls. The fortifications built by the Etruscans date back to the 3rd century BC. Furthermore, there was a medieval fortification ring with five city gates, which extended over more than six kilometers.

The Porta Marzia is a preserved city gate from Etruscan times. In the 15th century, another Etruscan city gate, Porta Trasimena, was renovated. At the highest point of the city is the Porta Sole, one of the oldest city gates, which today is also characterized by medieval architecture.

The part of the city wall built by the Etruscans is called Arco Etrusco. In the immediate vicinity of the historic walls, the Fontana Maggiore rises on Piazza IV Novembre, probably the most beautiful fountain in the city of Perugia.

Proud buildings

One of the most important religious buildings in the city is the Cathedral of San Lorenzo. The foundation stone for the church was laid in the middle of the century 14th century. The interior decoration dates mainly from the end of the 15th century. The construction work was completed in 1587 without really having come to an end. One of the most important pieces of decoration is, in addition to the pulpit, a statue of Pope Julius III.

The church of Sant’ Angelo dates back to the 5th century. It is a rotunda. The city’s cathedral was completed in 1490 and is considered a prime example of Gothic architecture. The cathedral also includes an extensive seminar and chapter complex. In 12. and In the 13th century, Perugia hosted five conclaves.

Perugia for art connoisseurs

San Francis in Assisi
Panoramic view of the Basilica of San Francis in Assisi, in the province of Perugia, Image: essevu / shutterstock

Art lovers can visit the Galleria Nazionale dell’ Umbria, the most important art gallery in the region. In 2018, the institution celebrated its 100th anniversary. The museum is housed in a Gothic-style mansion.

Visitors enter the exhibition through a richly decorated portal. The interior is dominated by works by Umbrian and Central Italian artists. The treasury houses works by Gentile da Fabbriano or Piero della Francesca. The collection is complemented by Umbrian masterpieces by Pinturicchio and Perugino.

In the adjoining building, the tour continues to the Collegio del Cambio. The medieval exchange office is decorated with numerous frescoes.

City of contrasts

It is not only the numerous students who give the city its very own colour. Perugia can also be explored underground. The path system leads through the foundation of an old fortress and is often the scene of events and exhibitions.

In a city where time seems to have stood still, escalators are less suspected, and yet they also shape the cityscape. Escalators provide the connection between the upper town and the old town. Past a historic backdrop, the path leads up to the historic city center.

In Goethe’s footsteps

At the gates of the city lies Lake Trasimeno, a popular local recreation area. Historically, the water gained importance when Hannibal inflicted heavy losses on the Romans here in 217 BC. The German prince of poets also seemed taken with the water. Goethe is said to have highly praised Lake Trasimeno on his trip to Italy in 1786.

Today, people are drawn to the lake in summer to swim. In winter, the nearby Monte Vettone with its 2,500-metre-high summit is considered a much-visited ski area.

Attention those with a sweet tooth – Perugia in a festive mood

Not to be missed is the tasting of Baci Perugina. The hazelnut pralines produced by the traditional company, which was founded in 1907, are known far beyond the borders of Perugia.

There is even a festival dedicated to sweet seduction. If you travel to Umbria in October, you can attend the Eurochocolate, the festival of chocolate. Those with a sweet tooth will find a wide range of chocolate specialties that can be tasted and serve as popular souvenirs.

Music lovers visit the annual Umbria Jazz festival. National and international artists who have dedicated themselves to jazz or blues perform there.

The surrounding area of Perugia is the scene of the sagre between August and the end of October. The weekly events resemble a harvest festival. The celebrations are usually held in the open air. Regional dishes are served with mushroom dishes, risotto or truffles

Liechtenstein – a small principality surrounded by Europe

PatrickJullien
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Liechtenstein – a small principality surrounded by Europe

The Principality of Liechtenstein is manageable, traditional, cosmopolitan and modern at the same time – just like the people who live here. The sixth smallest country in the world is located on the Rhine, between Vorarlberg, Austria and the Swiss canton of St. Gallen. Eleven municipalities are still subject to a constitutional hereditary monarchy today. The head of state is Prince Hans-Adam II of Liechtenstein. The official language is German.

The history of Liechtenstein

Gutenberg Castle, Liechtenstein
Gutenberg Castle, Image: Boris Stroujko / shutterstock

According to tradition, today’s principality was settled in the Neolithic Age. Once conquered by Romans and incorporated into the province of Raetia, the country was later Germanized under Frankish leadership. The current state was created by the purchase of the County of Vaduz and the lordship of Schellenberg by former princes. Due to the unification in 1719, the two territories were finally elevated to the Imperial Principality of Liechtenstein. Since that day, the Principality of Liechtenstein has been a hereditary monarchy. Liechtenstein was governed absolutistically: the prince lived in Vienna and had the country administered by a bailiff. This displeased the residents. They demanded a constitutional amendment. Since 1921, Liechtenstein has been run as a constitutional hereditary monarchy on a parliamentary and democratic basis. A new constitutional proposal was approved by citizens in a referendum in 2003. Even today, the principality is divided into two independent constituencies: the Oberland in the south and the Unterland in the north.

The Princely Family

Vaduz Tourist Railway
Tourist train in Vadu, Image: RossHelen / shutterstock

The Princes of Liechtenstein originally come from Lower Austria. They first bought the lordship of Schellenberg in 1699 and later the county of Vaduz. Since the unification of the two regions, state power has been vested in the Liechtenstein princely family. It is traditionally regulated according to the domiciliary law. The current head of state is Prince Hans-Adam II of Liechtenstein. His deputy and later heir to the throne is Prince Hans-Adam’s eldest son – Hereditary Prince Alois. He also already has children of his own. The eldest, Joseph Wenzel Maximilian Maria, will one day take over the succession to the throne.

The climate in Liechtenstein

The temperatures are pleasantly mild despite the proximity to the mountains. Warm, dry downward winds affect the weather in spring and autumn. Even in the winter months, the temperature rarely drops below minus 15 degrees, while in summer it is on average 20 to 28 degrees. Precipitation is lower than in the rest of the Alpine region and the duration of sunshine is around 1,600 hours a year. Perfect excursion weather!

Well-known sights and popular excursion destinations in Liechtenstein

Vaduz, Liechtenstein
In the center of Vaduz, Image: Lightlana / shutterstock

Visit Gutenberg Castle and learn everything about the high medieval castle complex. It is located in the south of the country, in Balzer. Initially, the castle was a church building with an adjoining cemetery. At the beginning of the 20th century, the site was converted into a castle complex. Visits and guided tours take place from May to October. In the summer months, the rose garden of Gutenberg Castle is used for cultural events.

During a holiday in Liechtenstein, you can’t avoid visiting the country’s capital, Vaduz. In the city, on a slope above the city, stands the famous Vaduz Castle. It is the residence of the Princely Family of Liechtenstein. Stroll through the traffic-calmed city centre and visit well-known museums, such as the contemporary art museum or the popular Landesmuseum. If you want to learn more about the princely family, you can book the city tour “Monarchy and Democracy”. She takes a look behind the scenes of the castle and the princely family.

Vaduz
View of Vaduz

Families with children should visit the Forst rope park in Triesen. Here you can train your dexterity, concentration, strength and endurance – a special outdoor experience! Nature lovers should plan a hike through the Ruggeller Riet nature reserve. This is a 90-hectare peat area that delights with its impressive flora and fauna.

You have the best view over the Principality of Liechtenstein from the viewing terrace of Sareis in the Malbuntal. The alpine pasture is located at an altitude of 2,000 m and offers a wonderful panoramic view of the Liechtenstein mountains.

Would you like to learn more about the rural life of the people? Then visit the Peasant Housing Museum in Eschnerberg. Here you can visit an almost 500-year-old Biedermann house. It is a symbol of the late medieval settlement in the Principality of Liechtenstein.

Regional delicacies

Vaduz Castle
Vaduz Castle, Image: stifos / shutterstock

Liechtenstein has a broad culinary base: Due to its location, Liechtenstein’s cuisine is subject to influences from Austria and Switzerland. But that’s not all – some chefs have reached star level in recent years. If you look at Gault Millau, you will find four award-winning chefs. If, on the other hand, you want to explore the country’s typical cuisine, a traditional inn is the place to be. But what is typically Liechtenstein?

The roots of Liechtenstein recipes lie in the country’s rural past. It has had a strong influence on food culture. One of the oldest recipes is probably the “Ribel”. During preparation, corn semolina is boiled in milky water to a pulp and then fried in a pan. Stir until small lumps are formed. The Ribel is served with applesauce, coffee or milk. Another national dish are the small Knöpfle with sour cheese and homemade applesauce. Both dishes are also known in the border regions of Switzerland and Austria.

Image: Michal Zduniak / shutterstock

The principality also has no need to hide when it comes to the selection of drinks. Just a glance at the landscape reveals it – Liechtenstein has a long wine-growing culture. Today, 99 winegrowers cultivate over twenty different grape varieties. If, on the other hand, you prefer the enjoyment of beer to wine, you can try Liechtenstein’s beer specialties. Whether light, dark, wheat or strong beer – two Liechtenstein breweries prove that good beer is not only brewed in Germany . You should also try traditional Liechtenstein fruit brandies made from plums, pears or apples on site. Delicious!

Ciudad Perdida – Colombia’s Lost City

Marleen Langen
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Ciudad Perdida – Colombia’s Lost City

Confucius already knew: “The journey is the goal.” With every step, the anticipation increases. Is it worth the long journey? What exactly is behind the lost city (Spanish: “Ciudad Perdida”)? A few years ago, the Sierra Nevada in Colombia was still part of the guerrilla zone and thus one of the most dangerous areas in the world. Today, the jungle near the Caribbean coast is the destination of thousands of tourists. But why was the ruined city considered lost for so long? Many secrets are hidden behind the Ciudad Perdida and only those who dare to do the four-day jungle trek get the opportunity to discover this natural wonder.

The Mystery of the Lost City

Staircase Ciudad Perdida
Image: dunn4040 / shutterstock

It is the first encounter with the indigenous people, who own a large part of the area around the Ciudad Perdida, the breathtaking view over Colombia’s north and the unique opportunity to hike through the jungle of Colombia for four days. Located in the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta in northern Colombia, Ciudad Perdida is one of the largest and oldest rediscovered cities in South America, along with Machu Picchu. The ruined city is located about 40 km southeast of Santa Marta in the middle of the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta in the upper valley of the Río Buritaca and consists of almost 200 oval and round terraces. Many of these terraces now serve as a tourist attraction, but some are still considered untouched.

Ciudad Perdida in Colombia
Image: Jenny Leonard / shutterstock

For almost four hundred years, the city of Teyuna, which means “origin of the peoples of the earth” in the indigenous Chibcha language, lay forgotten in the Colombian jungle. The foundation stone for the construction was laid around 700 AD. The estimated population was around 7,000 people for a time. When the Spaniards conquered large parts of today’s Colombia, the peaceful indigenous people retreated more and more to the higher mountains to flee from epidemics and other diseases. Imported diseases such as syphilis and smallpox reduced the population until the lost city fell into oblivion a short time later. Only a few knew about the secret of the lost city, until 1972. There are many legends about the rediscovery of the Ciudad Perdida. One of them says that in 1972 a hunter discovered overgrown steps in the middle of the jungle. He followed the 1200 steps and came to the lost city. As a result, grave robbers plundered the city, looting ancient treasures and destroying houses and the landscape. As a result, there were severe restrictions on entering the lost city.

Nowadays, a four-day trek leads to the remains of the ancient Teyuna civilization. To protect the lost city, agreements have been made with the indigenous population and the government, which severely limit the number of visitors. Nevertheless, more and more visitors are embarking on an adventure through the jungle. Although the demanding hike deters many people from doing so in advance, more and more tourists come to Colombia every year to discover the secret of the lost city. The hike is not a bargain and luxury is also limited during this time. Tropical heat, instead of air-conditioned rooms, limited access to drinking water, hammocks in the open air and dangerous jungle inhabitants. As soon as you leave Santa Marta by bus, you give up any kind of modern civilization. Electricity is only available for a short time in the evening, mobile phone reception is a foreign word and this hike is also a real challenge in other respects. But maybe that’s what makes this trek special. One thing is for sure, however, for those who get involved, this hike is an unforgettable adventure.

Guided tour to Ciudad Perdida

Image: Joerg Steber / shutterstock

If you want to visit the Lost City, you have to rely on a guided tour. Several tour operators in Santa Marta and Cartagena offer hikes to Ciudad Perdida. The Ciudad Perdida Trek lasts 4 days and 3 nights and passes through some of the most spectacular landscapes in Colombia. Steep paths have to be overcome, mountain slopes lead into the abyss and ice-cold rivers flow everywhere that have to be crossed during the hike.

Day 1

The first day begins with a drive in a van through the national park to the beginning of the trek, to the village of El Mamey. After the first few kilometers, you are already immersed in the silence of the jungle. A few hours later, you come across the first accommodation, where hammocks serve as night quarters. The mud of the jungle and the dried blood of the mosquito bites on the skin are washed off under a cold shower. And the first night also brings magical moments, because the jungle only really wakes up at night.

Day 2

However, the nights are short! Every morning you are woken up early, there is breakfast and you go straight on. Past steep rock slopes and surrounded by huge swarms of mosquitoes, we pass indigenous tribes to the next camp. This also has some surprises in store. The bathing area located at the camp invites you to cool off after another energy-sapping day. However, they spend the night one camp away, just before the gates of the Ciudad Perdida – and thus shortly before the destination.

Day 3

The path is the goal and it is steep. It goes up 1,200 Teyuna steps. The steps are a challenge in themselves, but every step is worth it. The ruined city itself is much bigger than you think. Once you reach the highest point, you can look out over the breathtaking terraced landscape of the Ciudad Perdida. It almost seems as if we are in a country before our time.

Day 4

It’s hard. It’s hot. It goes uphill and downhill. The last day of the hike is the most challenging. In just four days you walk about 70km, with 95% humidity and 30 degrees in the deepest jungle. Finally, the question arises again: Is it worth the long journey? Absolute. Exploring Ciudad Perdida is a real adventure and a unique experience.

Although the lost city is considered rediscovered today, it will probably never reveal its secrets once and for all, and that’s a good thing.

 

Sunny island of Fehmarn: Schleswig-Holstein’s pearl in the Baltic Sea

PatrickJullien
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Sunny island of Fehmarn: Schleswig-Holstein’s pearl in the Baltic Sea

When talking about Schleswig-Holstein and its islands, most people probably think of Sylt, Amrum and other insular North Sea beauties. But island fans can also find what they are looking for off the east coast of the northernmost federal state. Apart from the lock islands in Kiel-Holtenau and the two tiny Warder Islands in the Lemkenhafener Wiek, however, there is only one island in the Schleswig-Holstein Baltic Sea: Fehmarn.

Between Holstein and Denmark

The island is not only unique, but also big. With an area of 185 square kilometers, Fehmarn is twice the size of Sylt and thus the largest island in Schleswig-Holstein. In the all-German island area ranking, Fehmarn takes 3rd place after Rügen and Usedom. The island, which belongs to the district of Ostholstein with its 12,000 inhabitants, has formed a single municipality since a municipal reform, in which the former town of Burg (6,000 inhabitants) and the former municipalities of Westfehmarn, Bannesdorf and Landkirchen, which were divided into many villages, have been merged. Fehmarn is located in front of the eastern tip of the Wagrien peninsula.

The Fehmarnsund strait, which separates the mainland and the island here, is barely a kilometre wide. Since 1963, there has been a fixed crossing over this strait with the Fehmarnsund Bridge, which is passable for motor vehicles and railways. The fact that a similar bridge could ever be built on the north side of Fehmarn over the 15 km wide Fehmarn Belt between Fehmarn’s ferry port Puttgarden and the Danish neighboring island of Lolland is always considered, but so far it is speculation.

Exciting island history

Jimi Hendrix Fehmarn
The Jimi Hendrix memorial stone, Image: Oliver Foerstner / shutterstock

In some respects, Fehmarn’s history occupies a special position. In contrast to most other regions of the duchies of Schleswig and Holstein, the rural population of the “Fehmarn Landscape” was able to preserve extensive rights of freedom and self-government. The lack of serfdom, which was common on Schleswig-Holstein aristocratic estates on the mainland until the beginning of the 19th century, is particularly noteworthy. Fehmarn had been settled by members of the Slavic tribe of the Abodrites since the early Middle Ages.

The island’s name is derived from the West Slavic term “fe more”, which means “in the sea”. Later, the Slavs mixed with Holstein, Dutch and Danish new settlers. Fehmarn had changing sovereigns. Around 1020, the Bishop of Odense was the lord of the island, then the Counts of Schauenburg. In the war against Danish King Erich in 1420, most of the island’s population was wiped out. Count Adolf VIII of Holstein-Schauenburg lured members of Dithmarschen farming families from the North Sea coast in particular to the island with the promise of freedom and tax privileges for resettlement. Later part of the Danish state, Fehmarn became Prussian in 1867. Thanks to the initiative of a British diplomat, Fehmarn narrowly escaped the fate of being added to the Soviet occupation zone after the Second World War.

For many rock fans, the most important post-war event on Fehmarn was the Love and Peace Festival, celebrated in 1970: Jim Hendrix’s last appearance celebrated there is now commemorated by a memorial stone near the Flügge lighthouse.

Varied landscape, wide beaches

Beach Fehmarn
Beach on Fehmarn, Image: Lapa Smile / shutterstock

The landscape of Fehmarn, shining in lush green, shows many attractive differences. In addition to pastures for livestock farming of black Holstein cattle and the black earth fields unique to Schleswig-Holstein, wide areas with dunes, spits, small lakes and white beaches are reserved for nature conservation and recreation. There are hardly any elevations on the flat island. The highest island hill, the Hinrichsberg in the village of Staberdorf, is not particularly impressive with its 27 m height. In contrast, the cliff coast on the east side of the island has a rugged, stony drama that contrasts with the soft dune landscapes of the north coast. The beaches on the south coast, which are as wide as they are fine sand, are particularly popular with bathing enthusiasts.

Pure holiday joy

It is not in the south, but in the north that it is sunniest: With about 2,220 hours of sunshine, Fehmarn is a whopping 10% above the national average, making it the sunniest area in Germany. Even before agriculture, tourism is the No. 1 economic factor on Fehmarn. Nevertheless, the sprawling island does not make an overcrowded impression even in the high season. Fehmarn has a lot to offer its guests. In addition to holiday guesthouses, campsites, holiday farms or hotels, Fehmarn visitors can also choose an original sleeping beach chair or a well-kept holiday apartment on Fehmarn as a starting point for exploring the island. If you travel with many people and prefer to book holiday homes on the Baltic Sea , you will also benefit from the large selection of houses. In addition to beach and bathing pleasure, wellness and sauna, body and soul can be done good with kiting, hiking, cycling, surfing or sailing. Fun is also guaranteed by the Viwa Watersports water park and pedal boat rental on the south beach, a round of soccer golf in Burg or Siloclimbig in Burgstaaken.

Museums such as the Peter Wiepert Museum in Burg or the Mill and Agricultural Museum in Lemkenhafen provide information about the local history of the island. In Burgstaaken, one of the standard U-boats from the early days of the West German Navy can be visited with the Bundeswehr veteran U 11, who was active from 1968 to 1987. Fehmarn wildlife can also be admired: at various vantage points or during guided tours in the nature reserves, people can get up close to cormorants, grebes and the like.

Arrival in Fehmarn

Since Fehmarn was connected to the mainland by its Sund Bridge, the journey has become uncomplicated. From Hamburg , the driver drives on the A1 via Lübeck to Heiligenhafen at the eastern tip of Ostholstein to Fehmarn. From there, it is only a few kilometres on the B 207 to the Fehmarnsund Bridge. If you choose the train for the journey, you can reach the island stations of Burg and Puttgarden by regional trains or by the ICE trains running on the Vogelfluglinie between Germany and Denmark .

Football betting on holiday – this is the legal situation

PatrickJullien
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Football betting on holiday – this is the legal situation

When you go on holiday, you want to leave a lot behind: work stress, housework, the dreary view from the kitchen window. The farther away all these annoying things are, the better. But there are also a few things you don’t want to miss on holiday. Football fans want to follow their league from the other side of the world, with everything that goes with it. In addition to a Cool beer and a bag of chips, this can also be a little tip on the outcome of the next Bundesliga match. However, this is not always so easy. Because sports betting is not allowed everywhere in the world. And if they do, there is no guarantee that the local bookmakers will have German football in their program. This is what it looks like in the different regions of the world.

EU

For all those who travel within the EU, there is good news: online providers make it possible to bet from anywhere in the Bundesliga

Complete. Not only providers from Germany have German football in their program. Also with online bookmakers based in Malta or Curaçao it is at least possible to access the games of the 1st Bundesliga. Many of them even have the 2. and 3rd Bundesliga in the program. Because the principle of freedom to provide services applies in the EU, it doesn’t matter at all which country you are in. It is possible to access the relevant pages from anywhere. In most EU countries, there is also the possibility to place bets at a local terrestrial bookmaker. However, the betting program for the German league is often incomplete and the odds are not as good as on the Internet.

USA and Canada

The situation in the USA is much more difficult. Because sports betting is not legal everywhere. For this reason, European betting providers have blocked their sites for IP addresses from the USA. After all, since a decision by the US Supreme Court in 2018, around half of all states, including New York, sports betting. In some cases, however, legalization only applies to terrestrial bookmakers and not to online providers. If you are in a state where sports betting is legal, you still need luck: Because the German Bundesliga is a foreign word for many bookmakers there. The situation in Canada is similar: There are betting offers in most provinces. However, European sites are not accessible and the Bundesliga offer is thin.

Rest of the World

If you are in a region of the world other than Europe and North America, you should be prepared to take a short break from betting. There are many countries where sports betting is legal. But it’s not all of them. Especially in Asia In some countries, there is still a complete ban on gambling, which also affects sports betting. If you do find a bookmaker, you will still have difficulties betting on the Bundesliga. Because the demand for it is at the other end of the world extremely low. So hardly any bookmaker will take the trouble to show a match between FC Augsburg and Hertha Berlin. Anyone who
exotic countries
 , it is best to wait until the summer break – or to do without.

Travel guide for Oman with children – Everything you should read before your trip!

PatrickJullien
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Travel guide for Oman with children – Everything you should read before your trip!

Oman: classic Arabia, men in white robes with turbans, camel caravans in the sandy desert, Bedouins, oases, mosques and, of course, the mighty sultan in his palace. The small Sultanate of Oman fulfills pretty much all the clichés you would expect for a country from the Arabian Nights and offers an excellently developed tourist infrastructure for an average of rather few travelers. What is perhaps less well known is that Omanis are extremely child-friendly. In fact, your children can open many doors for you on your trip to Oman. Read here everything you need to know for a trip to Oman with children!

1. Good preparation ensures a great holiday

International travel always requires careful planning and preparation. Here are the key points:

  • The easiest way to apply for an Oman visa is online.
  • Covid 19: All restrictions have been dropped by Oman. You can find the current status and other useful information here. Regardless of this, however, your chosen tour operator or airline may make its own requirements, such as a negative PCR test or masks during the flight.
  • No other vaccinations are required. It is mandatory to take out travel health insurance. Medical care in Oman is very good, emergency care for everyone, including tourists, free of charge.
  • The best time to travel is from November to March, because it is not as hot as the rest of the year.
  • Their passports should be valid for at least six months upon entry and must not have stamps from Israel.

2. What should be in the holiday suitcase?

Oman is a country with a subtropical climate. In winter, daytime temperatures in the lowlands range up to 28°C, while in summer they can even rise to 50°C. So the clothing can be chosen summery. However, it should be noted that the shoulders should be covered. The Omanis are very friendly, but have a clear idea of what clothing is appropriate. For women, the knees should also be covered. Even on the beach, it is recommended to wear a T-shirt and shorts over the bikini. For a trip to the Hajar Mountains, long pants and a warm jacket are also recommended. It can even snow there in winter.

If you are taking electrical devices such as laptops or chargers with you, you will need a Type G adapter.

3. Safety and rules of conduct

Oman is a safe country to travel with simple, friendly and honest people. Even women traveling alone have no problems to fear. Only the border region with Yemen, where there is war, should be avoided if possible.

To note:

  • The left hand is considered unclean. You should not greet them or touch anyone with them. Even gestures, such as greetings or hand signals, are best done with your right hand.
  • The people often look very picturesque. However, avoid taking photos without their explicit permission.
  • For mosque visits, the knees should be covered and women should wear a headscarf.

Of course, it is always a special recommendation if you learn a few words of the local language for your Oman holiday. Even just 10 or 20 words like: Good day = As-salamu-aleikum, thank you = schukran, good, bad, excuse me and so on prove your good will to integrate into the culture and help you enormously in everyday life. Here is a small list of useful expressions.

4. What to do on holiday in Oman with children?

Oman, Muscat
View of Muscat, Image: NAPA / shutterstock

The landscape of Oman offers desert, beach and mountains. Although the mountains are actually desert, but they are interrupted by mountain lakes, the wadis, which feed green valleys and where you can cool off in the heat. The cities, especially the capital Muscat and the old capital Nizwa are also worth seeing.
The largest sand desert in the world, the Rub al-Khali, is partly located in Oman. You can take day trips from Muscat to the desert to the so-called Wahiba Sands. If you want to experience the desert very intensively, you can also book a night in a desert camp. Since Antoine de Saint-Exupéry, the author of The Little Prince, many know that a desert night is something very special, not only for stargazers.

5. Beach vacation

What could be better in tropical or subtropical countries than holidays on the beach and from beaches, Oman really has an abundance to offer. Of course, a beach holiday is also a great experience for children, where they will not be bored for a second. Book a holiday in a child-friendly family hotel if you want a fixed base for your holiday. The beaches in the Muscat region then offer quick access to desert tours and cultural attractions, while in the Salalah area you will find palm beaches in one of the greenest regions of the Arabian Peninsula. You can also dive and snorkel in Oman. Equipment is rented and there are diving schools.

Conclusion: A holiday with children in Oman requires little preparation and offers a lot of educational and entertaining things for children and parents. It is a safe and beautiful experience that you will remember fondly for many years to come.

Cheap parking at the airport and relaxed on holiday

PatrickJullien
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Cheap parking at the airport and relaxed on holiday

Just quickly look for a parking space at the airport and then off you go on your long-awaited vacation? The best parking spaces will already be gone and you will have to pay a price that is way too high. If you don’t want to blow your travel budget while parking at the airport, here are a few tips for you. So you can start your journey completely relaxed.

How do I find the cheapest parking options at the airport?

The prices for parking spaces at German airports vary greatly, which is why you should look for an offer before your trip. The earlier you book the parking space, the cheaper it will be. And this is how it works:

  1. Select your departure airport in the comparison portal and enter flight details.
  2. Compare providers at the airport – choose a service that suits you.
  3. Reserve the parking space online.
  4. You will receive the booking confirmation by e-mail.

Saving costs – how does it work?

The short-term parking spaces directly at the terminal are the first port of call for many travellers. But in fact, the short-term parking spaces are designed to drop off travelers or pick them up after a relaxing vacation. It is strongly advised not to use these parking spaces if you are in a hurry or if you are running late. We therefore recommend planning in good time. The prices are cheapest if you reserve a parking space a few months in advance. You can use alternative Park & Fly offers at many airports, which are usually cheaper.

What alternative parking options are there?

There are various parking options available at the airport, which vary in price and service. Below, we’ve compared the three most common ones so you can find out what suits you best.

Park & Walk

If you want to leave your vehicle at the airport, you can use the parking garages or parking spaces on site at the airport. These are usually within walking distance and therefore usually expensive. Due to the proximity to the airport, you have a high degree of flexibility and can decide for yourself when you want to arrive.

Parking with shuttle service

With the shuttle service, you can drive your car to the parking area and park it there. These parking spaces are often not accessible on foot, which is why the additional service is offered. You will then be driven to your terminal by shuttle or bus. When you return from your holiday, this shuttle will pick you up directly at the airport and take you to your car. The cost of the shuttle ride is already included in the parking fees.

Parking with valet service

Parking with valet service offers you a high level of comfort and additional security for your car. You drive your car to the airport terminal and can hand it over to a parking lot employee. The employee will then park your car in one of the designated parking spaces. The valet service is insured and your car is covered against damage on the crossing to the car park. This parking option saves time and allows you to get your journey off to a relaxed start.

Parking at Frankfurt am Main Airport

Frankfurt am Main is Germany’s largest airport and offers you a variety of destinations, but can also quickly become confusing. There, the prices for parking spaces vary greatly, as the cheap parking spaces sell out quickly. In order for you to find an affordable parking space, we recommend that you compare the prices here.

Due to the distance to the airport, alternative parking options such as a shuttle service are often cheaper. In addition, the prices on site in the car park are not transparent for you as a guest, as the parking prices fluctuate constantly. Especially at Frankfurt am Main Airport, you should book a parking space in good time and early, as the traffic on site is high.

In a nutshell

➤ Planning is everything! It is best to book a parking space when booking the flight.

➤ Be sure to compare the offers beforehand and reserve in advance.

➤ Use alternative parking options.

The Austrian Zillertal – Time out in the natural idyll

PatrickJullien
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The Austrian Zillertal – Time out in the natural idyll

Fresh mountain air, boundless freedom, pure natural idyll – welcome to the Zillertal. The beautiful town is located in the Alps of Tyrol, one of the nine provinces in the west of Austria. The valley stretches over 47 kilometers and has more than 35,500 inhabitants. The name of the valley comes from the 56-kilometre-long river called “Ziller”. At an altitude of 3,510 metres, the Hochfeiler is the highest mountain in the Zillertal. This is one of the most popular destinations for holidaymakers who want to spend their holidays in the Alps and beautiful apartments in the Zillertal . Everything is on offer there, from action and adventure to relaxation and recreation.

The Zillertal in summer

Whether you want to spend a summer or winter holiday in the Zillertal – there are a wide range of leisure activities available to you at any time of the year. Numerous hiking trails invite you to go hiking in the mountains to discover the beauty of nature in all its diversity. For a relaxed sunrise hike, for example, the panoramic mountain “Gedrechter” is ideal. If you prefer a more difficult, challenging climb, you can take a hike to the high mountain chapel in Zillergrund, for example. Bike lovers also get their money’s worth in the Zillertal and can find 1,300 kilometres of bike routes for their mountain or e-bikes. For all golfers, or those who would like to become one, there is a golf course in the valley in the face of an alpine panorama. This is located in Uderns in the Zillertal and is one of the so-called “Leading Golf Courses of Austria”. Another breathtaking leisure activity is the glacier experience in Hintertux between 1,500 and 3,250 metres above sea level, which can be booked 365 days a year. This activity offers a magnificent panorama over the Tux and the mountains in the Zillertal.

The Zillertal in winter

Mayrhofen
Mayrhofen in the Zillertal, Image: Roman Babakin / shutterstock

But even in the cold winter time, there are numerous and varied leisure activities that make a holiday in the Austrian Zillertal unforgettable. For example, mountain hikes are also possible in winter. Winter hiking trails are prepared for this purpose and offer you the opportunity to discover the glittering snowy landscapes of the Zillertal. Or you can book guided snowshoe hikes, which are offered in different levels of difficulty. If you feel like tobogganing, there are 48 kilometres of groomed toboggan runs in the valley. Some of these are also illuminated at night, so you have the opportunity to toboggan in the Zillertal in bright sunshine or under the starry sky. For all skiers and snowboarders, there is a large ski area with countless lifts, which can be reached nationwide by bus and train connections.

Culinary journey to sweet South Africa – Three typical desserts of the country

PatrickJullien
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Culinary journey to sweet South Africa – Three typical desserts of the country

A journey into the culinary world of South Africa is worthwhile. If you want to save yourself the long flight, you could alternatively visit a South African restaurant . The menu then includes all kinds of delicacies – from scallops to exotic fruits to zebra ham. The desserts also sound tempting and deliciously rich. With three authentic South African desserts, it is particularly worthwhile to take a closer look at them.

Malva Pudding

The traditional Malva pudding probably originated with the Dutch settlers who settled in South Africa . It is not a “pudding” according to the classic German understanding, but rather a kind of cake or tartlet. The sweet dessert contains apricot jam and is characterized by its sponge-like, caramelized consistency.

As a rule, malva pudding is served hot, poured over with an equally hot cream sauce or eaten with ice cream as a contrast. Malva pudding consists mainly of flour, sugar, milk and the flavor-giving and typical apricot jam.

Melktert

The next dessert may also go back to the Dutch settlers in South Africa. The first historical traces can be found as early as 1510 in a recipe book by the Dutchman Thomas van der Noot. In the case of Melktert, this is referred to as a kind of tart. It is reminiscent of the Portuguese Pastel de Nata.

The tart consists mainly of a pastry crust into which a filling of milk, flour, egg and sugar is added. The Melktert is often sprinkled with cinnamon. The dessert is then served either chilled, at room temperature or even slightly warmed.

Dom Pedro

The origin of the next dessert turns out to be rather unknown and controversial. Nevertheless, Dom Pedro enjoys great popularity in South Africa and is often served there as a sweet conclusion. Compared to the other two desserts, this is a dessert in the form of a drink: Dom Pedro is comparable to a milkshake.

As a rule, Dom Pedro is received in a wine glass. Included are ice cream, usually vanilla, and a portion of cream. The liquid dessert is drunk with a straw. In addition, either whiskey or a liqueur such as Amarula is added to the shake. Some restaurants add chocolate sauce to the edges of the glass.

Emilia-Romagna – historical flair meets scenic beauty

PatrickJullien
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Emilia-Romagna – historical flair meets scenic beauty

Emilia-Romagna stretches between the Po, Veneto, Lombardy and the Adriatic Sea. The northern Italian region not only presents itself as an attractive destination with breathtakingly beautiful landscapes, but also enchants with its rich cultural heritage. Vibrant cities meet authentic, small villages, traditions are maintained and historical sights characterize the historic region, which looks back on an eventful history and at the same time has made a name for itself as the home of the major Italian sports car brands and motorcycle manufacturers.

Emilia-Romagna – the underrated natural paradise

As one of the greenest regions in Italy, the region inspires with a fascinating variety of landscapes. From the forests of the Apennines to the pine forests on the coast, the region is home to two national parks, numerous nature reserves and 15 ski resorts. Emilia-Romagna invites you to outdoor activities all year round with its numerous hiking trails, bridle paths, mountain bike trails, ski resorts, snow parks and adventure parks.

The Tuscan-Emilian Apennines National Park is a cross-regional national park that has already been declared a Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO. With 22,000 hectares of natural landscapes, a fascinatingly diverse flora and fauna, unspoilt beech and chestnut forests, glacial lakes and impressive waterfalls, the national park makes the hearts of nature lovers beat faster.

But also the National Park Forest Castentinesi, as well as the cross-regional nature park Sasso Simone e Simoncello, the 14 regional parks and the 17 state nature reserves as well as the regional park of the Po Delta invite you to extensive exploration tours and inspire with their biodiversity.

Historic cities with flair

When it comes to the most beautiful cities in Emilia-Romagna, it is difficult to rank, because each city has its own charm. From the romantic small town to the capital Bologna , all the cities in the region inspire with their rich historical heritage and so history often seems to be within reach in the alleys of the old towns. But the comforts of our time are not neglected either.

Bologna – the proud capital and university city

Bologna, Towers
The Garisenda and Asinelli towers in Bologna, Image: Sergey Dzyub / shutterstock

In the Middle Ages, Bologna was one of the most important cities in Italy and this is still reflected in the cityscape today. Magnificent medieval buildings are lined up along cobblestone alleys. The impressive buildings can be found in the centrally located Piazza Maggiore, including the Basilica di San Petronio with its art treasures. The Palazzo del Podestá with its colonnade is also one of the attractions of the city. Likewise, the Archiginnasio is located right next to the cathedral and is considered the most important and impressive sight of the city, because it was the rooms of the oldest university in Europe. The lively city has a lot to offer and so architecture enthusiasts, history buffs and shop-hungry visitors alike get their money’s worth here.

Ravenna – the historic World Heritage City

Ravenna is also one of the cities that everyone should visit at least once. Located in the east of the province, the city shines with huge mosaics that brought the small town world fame. These art treasures have long since been included in the UNESCO World Heritage List , because the mosaics decorated with precious stones and gold leaf are unique. But the basilicas of the city also impress with numerous art treasures and a visit to the Museo Arcivescovile e Cappella di Sant’Andrea should not be missed. Art lovers can also follow in Dante’s footsteps and visit, among other things, the Dante Museum and the tomb of the important Italian poet and philosopher.

Rimini – the underrated jewel

Tiberius Bridge Rimini
The Tiberius Bridge of Rimini, Image: ALEX_UGALEK / shutterstock

When you think of Rimini, you often think only of sun, beach and sea, parties and celebrities. But away from the beach line, Rimini has fascinating sights to offer. Rimini’s old town surprises with numerous sights from Roman times, including the Tiberius Bridge, which has crossed the Marecchia River for over 2,000 years. An absolute highlight is also the former fish district Borgo San Giuliano. Here you will not only find lovingly renovated houses, but also for street art and film fans, the district is an absolute must. But a walk along the promenade is also worthwhile, because at its end there is the Arch of Augustus, one of the oldest preserved arches of honour in Italy.

Ferrara – the authentic World Heritage City

With the iconic Castello Estense, which rises majestically above the city and offers a fantastic view of the city, Ferrara is one of the most beautiful cities in the region. With an architectural mix of medieval and Renaissance architecture, the charming little town inspires at first sight. If you stroll through the narrow streets of the old town, you can discover a lot. Highlights such as the largely car-free former Jewish quarter or the city’s cathedral leave lasting impressions.

Tips – from handicrafts to culinary delights

Traditions are maintained in the province of Emilia-Romagna and ancient knowledge and crafts are passed on to the next generation. Accordingly, it is worthwhile to walk off the beaten track and, for example, visit the Stamperia Artigiana Marchi in Santarcangelo di Romagna. Historical fabric presses and handmade wooden stamps and traditional tools are still used here. But also in other cities and villages you can visit workshops of artisans who maintain old crafts to this day. Traditional festivals are also still celebrated in the region and so it is always worth taking a look at the calendar of events. Gourmets, on the other hand, should not miss out on shopping at the regional weekly markets as well as a visit to a restaurant or two, because the specialties of the province of Emilia-Romagna literally melt in your mouth and make every gourmet go into raptures.

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