Sports holidaymakers and hikers spend a large part of their holiday in the great outdoors. That is why this group of tourists attaches particular importance to sustainability and environmental protection. The Vorarlberg-based manufacturer Alpin Loacker attaches particular importance to high quality and environmentally friendly production in its production. Below we would like to introduce you to a selection of the products:
Men’s Merino Underwear (Boxer Shorts, Long Underpants, Socks)
Shirts
Hoodys
Jackets
Hats & Headbands
West
Hiking pants
Walking shoes
Glasses
The men’s underwear is made from the popular merino wool. Merino wool has many positive properties that are especially advantageous in the sports sector:
Due to the special fineness compared to conventional new wool, it does not scratch
Natural wool smells less quickly than synthetic materials
Wool textiles provide particularly good protection against the cold
A great advantage for nature is that sheep’s wool textiles can later be processed into rice wool.
Hiking poles
Hiking poles support the joints – especially when descending from the mountain. This saves a lot of energy to move safely in nature. Who would want to do without their trekking poles when hiking? You should pay particular attention to the correct adjustment of the hiking poles. So the hiking poles should always be adapted to the terrain. The pole should be set a little longer on the descent and shorter on the ascent. In general, however, it should be adjusted so that the hand can grip the handle well when the arm is at right angles to the floor. The forearm is parallel to the floor and bent at the elbow.
Alpin Loacker offers foldable touring poles, aluminum telescopic and carbon telescopic hiking poles in its online shop. These are made of lightweight aircraft-grade aluminum or super lightweight 3K carbon.
Sleeping bags
With the right sleeping bag, you can recover at night and be fit for the next day, Image: everst / shutterstock
Whether in summer or winter: Without suitable down sleeping bags, the night becomes torture and so does the next day in the mountains. Especially recommended for year-round hikers is the Down Pro 3 Seasons Down Sleeping Bag. With a weight of just 860 grams, it is easy to transport. If you prefer to travel in summer, you can save another 400 grams of weight with a summer sleeping bag.
Grödel
Grödel are the ideal upgrade for your hiking boots when hiking or trekking in icy or slippery terrain. The shoe offers good grip on both flat and hilly surfaces. With 18 nails per Grödel, the risk of falling is greatly reduced and mountain hiking in autumn, winter and spring becomes a real pleasure again. These shoe hangers are also suitable for running in ice and snow.
The features at a glance:
Winter hiking, trekking
elastic silicone – secure hold on (almost) any shoe
Durable stainless steel
18 spikes per Grödel
light: 415g per pair
Outdoor Clothing for Women
The Merino Thermo clothing is particularly suitable for jogging, skiing, climbing, hiking and mountaineering. The women’s range is similarly extensive to that of men’s outdoor clothing:
When traveling to Austria, the various cities are usually overshadowed by Vienna or Salzburg, which are also known to most foreign tourists. Graz is another city that has a variety of interesting places to offer. The capital of Styria is a pleasant size and can be easily explored on foot or by public transport. In addition to some sights, however, it is above all the interesting culture of the city that attracts thousands of tourists every year. It is not for nothing that the old town, which has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1999, is home to some of the best cafés in the country.
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The visit to Graz – why here?
The old town of Graz, Image: Boris Stroujko / shutterstock
Austria has a long history behind it, which can still be experienced up close in many cities today with breathtaking sights. But while you can simply get lost in Vienna, for example, and Salzburg is mainly associated with the castle for visitors, Graz has retained the charm of a small town and still offers many interesting testimonies from the long history of Austria. It is very easy to move through the streets and the excellent public transport system allows you to visit most of the sights easily by bus.
In addition, Graz not only has historical buildings to offer, but also an interesting and old culture, which can be seen here on every corner. A large number of interesting museums, for example, deal with art in the former empire. Testimonies from the city’s long history can also be seen in exhibitions and museums. And if you’ve had a long day of history and culture, you’ll find a variety of cafes for a break or restaurants serving local cuisine. The hearty dishes of Austria are known all over the world and here you can enjoy them authentically in a historic setting.
The main attractions
The Herrengasse in Graz, Image: K3S / shutterstock
The city’s landmark is the majestic Graz Clock Tower, which rises in the old town of Graz. It can also be found on most postcards, coins and other souvenirs and is the figurehead for the inhabitants of the city. It is also located on the Schlossberg and if you make your way to visit the tower, you will have the city’s second major attraction right in front of you. This is where the true history of the city is located. The ascent can be done in two ways: Either you use the footpath to the top and enjoy the view of the city, or you take the elevator that takes visitors to the top. From here you have an impressive view, especially in the evening, and can enjoy Graz in the play of lights.
The Schlossberg offers some restaurants and beer gardens and of course probably the most beautiful exhibition of history in the city. From here you not only have a great view, but you can also spend a few hours exploring the locations. Fittingly, Graz is also home to the Landeszeughaus, probably the oldest ammunition and weapons depot in the country, where today not only modern weapons can be found, but above all historical pieces that once adorned the army in the many wars of the Empire.
Last but not least, there are many buildings from former times in the old town. From here you also have an easy way to the Graz Cathedral, which also adorns the skyline of the city and was built in the typical magnificent construction of the Middle Ages. If you have had enough of history and prefer to devote yourself to culture, you can walk to the art museum, which also offers some interesting exhibitions about the long history of the country and the city.
In the end, it is always worthwhile to end the day on Graz’s main square. This is where the city comes together and there are also many bars, cafes and restaurants in this place. So if you want to regain your strength after a long day exploring the city, you can do so with an original Wiener Schnitzel or other delicacies of Austrian cuisine.
She was the last of no more than four women on the Egyptian throne. Cleopatra inspires and fascinates historians and history buffs to this day. After all, it played a major role in numerous historical developments. She was instrumental in the establishment of the Roman Empire.
Her life became known to a wide audience centuries ago through the Shakespeare drama “Antony and Cleopatra”. In recent decades, the historical figure has become the leading actress in numerous films and books. Her preference for linking politics and love affairs made Cleopatra popular for posterity.
Today, the Egyptian queen is known not only from the famous film “Cleopatra” starring Liz Taylor, but also from numerous examples in pop culture. She celebrates them as an icon just as much as the art world. Her eventful life inspires and fascinates. This is also evident in the controversies that the life of the pharaoh repeatedly evokes. The eternal diva is not only represented in painting, photography or video art, but even adorns slot machines.
It is not for nothing that historical Egypt has become a popular motif in the gaming industry. The Egyptian queen serves as a leitmotif for many Cleopatra slots, which have been examined and evaluated in detail here . Her life and her spectacular suicide offer enough material for all genres of the art and entertainment industry, from which many stories can be formed.
At the age of 18 she became regent
Cleopatra was born in Alexandria in 69 BC. She was the third of five children of Pharaoh Ptolemy XII. He ruled the country as a result of the conquest of Alexander the Great. His wife, Cleopatra VI, was almost certainly not the mother of the future queen, but an unknown woman from a noble family. Even before his death, the pharaoh appointed his daughter Cleopatra as co-regent. After the death of her father, Cleopatra VII ascended the throne in 51 BC together with her brother, who was only 10 years old. She was 18 years old at the time. At that time, Egypt was merely a satellite state of the Roman Empire. As was customary at the time, she married her brother, who also ruled as co-pharaoh. But just two years later, the power struggles within the court escalated. Her brother’s guardians pushed Cleopatra from the throne. As a result, she was even forced to leave the country.
Power struggle with the brother
But the ruler did not give up. From Palestine, she fought her brother and his advisor with mercenaries. At that time, Egypt was drawn into the Roman fratricidal war, Julius Caesar, who won this war, also landed in Alexandria and made himself ruler of the country. Cleopatra sneaked into the royal palace hidden in a sack and thus convinced the Roman emperor of herself. She began an affair with Julius Caesar, who subsequently reinstated her as co-regent.
But her brother’s advisors did not give up. They assembled an army that was five times superior to the Roman troops. But Caesar and Cleopatra secured the support of Jewish troops and defeated their enemies. In the course of the fighting, the famous library of Alexandria also went up in flames, Cleopatra’s brother died in this war.
Mistress of Julius Caesar
After the end of the fighting, Cleopatra, together with another brother, rose to become ruler of Egypt before Rome’s grace. Caesar left three legions for their protection, but also as a guarantee of a policy that corresponded to his ideas. The two had a son together in 47 BC with the name Caesarion.
In the following years of her reign, Cleopatra traveled frequently for fame, trying to consolidate her influence on the Roman dictator Julius Caesar. Although he was still married to his Roman wife Calpurnia, he elevated Cleopatra to the divine rank by donating a golden temple statue. Their influence may have contributed significantly to Caesar’s increasingly absolutist style of power. This was increasingly criticized by the Roman elites and could have served as a motive for the conspiracy against Julius Caesar. In 44 BC, the Roman emperor fell victim to an assassination attempt. With this, Cleopatra lost her most important support in Rome for the time being.
Mark Antony goes to war against Octavian
Image: Wirestock Creators / shutterstock
Caesar had not appointed their son Caesarion as heir, but his nephew Octavian. However, the later Emperor Augustus was not able to assert himself for the time being. Marcus Antonius claimed power and triggered a ten-year conflict. In it, Cleopatra took his side and became his lover. The two had twins. After the death of her brother, Cleopatra had meanwhile risen to become the sole ruler of Egypt.
Mark Antony came into the line of fire of his opponents, who accused him of squandering Roman provinces. Cleopatra, on the other hand, cultivated a cult that culminated in her embodiment of the goddess Isis. She wanted to stand in a row with Roman gods, such as the sun god Ra. In Rome, Octavian and Mark Antony had shared power, but Octavian won in the final power struggle. The naval battle of Actium ended in favor of the future emperor. In 30 BC, the battle was finally lost. Mark Antony threw himself on his sword and died in the arms of Cleopatra.
The victorious Octavian took Cleopatra into custody. In order not to be dragged along as a trophy in Octavian’s planned triumphal procession, the then 39-year-old Cleopatra took her own life. Whether it was actually the bite of a snake, however, is still historically disputed today. Cleopatra was buried at the side of Mark Antony in her mausoleum in Alexandria, according to her wishes. After her death, Egypt became a Roman province with special status, and the rule of the Ptolemies was over.
The story of this fascinating woman still captures the imagination of many fans. Cleopatra has proven to be a cunning ruler who was able to successfully assert herself in a male-dominated world.
Brazil is a country of contrasts and contrasts. From breathtaking beaches and deep rainforests to the Iguaçu Falls and swamps of Pantanal to vibrant metropolises – on a trip through Brazil you will experience an incredible diversity.
There are also a variety of reasons for the diversity of the country. One of the most striking is probably the richness of the landscapes and cultures that are present here. In no other country in the world is there such a large number of different environments to discover. From the vast rainforests of the Amazon to the endless beaches of the coasts of Brazilian dreamscapes, everyone will find their own personal paradise here.
Brazil is also known for its exotic wildlife. The Amazon is home to many species of monkeys, sloths and anacondas, while the Pantanal is home to armadillos, giant snakes and jaguars. The birds are also unique and impressive, from the small hummingbirds to the giant harpies.
But it’s not just the world of animals that is busy. The people in the country are also very diverse and come together from all kinds of cultures and backgrounds. This makes Brazil one of the most interesting places on earth to meet new people and cultures.
What are the sights to explore in Brazil?
Anyone who has ever been to Brazil is certainly familiar with the many tourist sights and attractions. But the country has much more to offer than just the well-known media places. If you want to discover the beauty of the country and culture off the beaten track of Brazil, you should not miss the following places on your trip:
The Iguaçu Falls
The Iguaçu Falls are undoubtedly one of the most impressive natural wonders of Brazil. They are located on the border with Argentina and Paraguay and consist of a total of 275 individual waterfalls. The natural spectacle is particularly impressive when the masses of water plunge into the Iguaçu River. A visit to these impressive and natural waterfalls is breathtaking and will remain in your memory forever.
The Pantanal Marshes
The Pantanal swamps are a vast wetland that is particularly popular with animal lovers. The swamps are home to about 650 different species of birds, 150 species of mammals and more than 80 species of reptiles. Particularly worth seeing are the beautiful stilted flamingos that live in the swamps. A visit to the Pantanal marshes is an unforgettable experience for nature lovers and the whole family.
The Amazon
The Amazon is clearly the most famous river in Brazil. With a length of 6400 kilometers, it is the longest river in the world. In the area of the water-bearing lifeline in the Amazon region, about 30 million people live in around 4000 different tribes of the indigenous people. On a trip to the Amazon, travelers can experience the breathtaking nature of the rainforest up close and observe the diverse wildlife in its original state.
Salvador de Bahia
Salvador de Bahia, Image: Helissa Grundemann / shutterstock
Salvador de Bahia is the capital of the state of Bahia in northeastern Brazil. The city is located at the mouth of the river Bahia de Todos os Santos in the Atlantic Ocean and has around 2.9 million inhabitants. At the time of its discovery by Europeans in 1500, Salvador was the capital of all of Brazil. The city was elevated to episcopal status in 1549 and is now one of the most important cultural centers in Brazil.
Brazilian culture – what makes it special?
Brazilian culture is very diverse. There are many different influences that shape them. These include in particular indigenous culture, African culture, but also Portuguese colonial rule and the cultural diversity created by immigration from all over the world. All these influences have contributed to the Brazilian way of life being so diverse and rich.
An essential part of this vibrant culture is music. It plays a very important role in all areas of people’s lives. Many different styles of music are common in Brazil, including samba, bossa nova, MPB, and reggae. Music is an essential part of the Brazilian identity.
Of course, this is accompanied and firmly linked to the carnival. Carnival is an annual festivity where people celebrate and dance in an exuberant atmosphere. The carnival season is a period of joy and exuberance without restrictions. Everyone can feel free, have fun and live out this feeling.
Brazilian culture is therefore extremely free, lively and colourful. It reflects the diversity of the population and allows everyone present to participate in it. It is unique and something very special.
Travelling to Brazil – it’s worth it!
Due to its many positive facets, Brazil is one of the most fascinating countries in the world. There is so much to see and do that it is not easy to fit all your wishes into one visit. Nevertheless, a trip to Brazil is worthwhile to get to know the breathtaking nature, the lively culture and the warm people.
Brazil is home to some of the most impressive natural beauty in the world. The powerful, imposing waterfalls of Iguazú National Park are overwhelming to look at.
The region of mighty rainforests is also very impressive. In the Amazon region, you can experience the diverse flora and fauna up close.
But what actually leaves a lasting impression on tourists in Brazil are the people themselves. The locals are very warm, hospitable and always willing to show a stranger their country. Even if you don’t speak Portuguese, you won’t experience any language barriers in Brazil. Because most Brazilians also speak English or at least a little Spanish.
The ideal time to travel!
Rio de Janeiro at night, Image: SJ Travel Photo and Video/shutterstock
The best time to travel to Brazil is spring and autumn. These are the seasons when the climate is most pleasant. However, if you can stand the Brazilian summer heat, you can also travel to Brazil in summer. However, you should then spend a few days in the cooler areas of the country before continuing on to Rio de Janeiro or São Paulo.
When you travel to the South American country, you can look forward to unique experiences and unforgettable moments. The gorgeous weather and stunning scenery are just some of the reasons why so many people come to Brazil every year.
If you want to determine the best time to travel for your individual needs and ideas, you should look at the weather conditions in different regions of the country. The seasons in particular can have a big impact on the weather.
Find out about the best time to travel to Brazil for your holiday.
Spain is one of the most popular travel destinations for Germans. In addition to the Balearic Islands and Canary Islands, the country also has some great destinations to offer on the mainland. Below you will find a selection of the most popular sights in Spain.
The famous Sagrada Familia Basilica in Barcelona, Image: TTstudio / shutterstock
Barcelona is one of the top destinations in Spain. The capital of Catalonia has two of the most visited sights in the country, the Sagrada Familia and the Parc Güell. The Sagrada Familia remains unfinished to this day and represents the main work of Antoni Gaudí in the style of Modernisme, the Catalan form of Art Nouveau. The “Sermon of Stone” fascinates with its differently designed facades and towers as well as the light-flooded interior. Gaudí was inspired by motifs from nature during the construction and most recently lived on the construction site itself.
Alhambra in Granada
The Alhambra, Image: Shchipkova Elena / shutterstock
The Alhambra towers high above Granada as a landmark and symbol of Andalusia’s Moorish heritage. For centuries, it was the seat of the Moorish Caliphate in the south of today’s Spain. The Alhambra complex is made up of the Generalife, the summer palace outside the fortress walls, the medina, the Nasrid palaces and the Alcazaba, i.e. the citadel. The most famous part, however, is the Löwenhof with the Löwenbrunnen. Later, the palace of Charles V was added, for which parts of the Nasrid palaces were demolished. With the construction of the Alhambra in the 13. and It began in the 14th century under the first Nasrid sultan, but the origins of the castle go back even further.
Insider tip: Camino del Rey in Andalusia
Camino del Rey, Andalusia – The former via ferrata is now a secured hiking trail and leads at a height of 100 meters through gorges up to 200 meters deep. On the way you pass a narrow stone bridge and a waterfall. Due to the restoration, the via ferrata has largely lost its original character, but is now safe to walk on after prior registration. The Camino del Rey once served as a small supply route and connected the weir on the Gaitanejo with the hydroelectric power plant at the El Chorro waterfall. The canyon through which the path winds was created by the Guadalhorce River and passes through limestone and dolomite rock.
Royal Palace in Madrid
The Palacio Real (Royal Palace), Image: Rudy Balasko / shutterstock
A representative symbol of power in the centre of the Spanish capital is the imposing Royal Palace, the largest of its kind in Europe. It comprises about 2000 halls, rooms and cabinets, but a total of more than 3400 rooms on an area of 135,000 square meters. Several architectural styles, including Baroque and Classicism, meet in the interior. Among the most important interiors are the State Room, the Gallery of Mirrors and the Throne Room. Nor is there a richly decorated castle chapel. Parts of the Palacio Real are open to visitors.
Toledo Cathedral
Toledo Cathedral is one of the largest and most beautiful churches in Spain. As is so often the case, it was built over a mosque. The foundation stone was laid in 1226. In total, the completion took over 200 years. Inside, the artistically designed and filigree main altar attracts everyone’s attention. No less impressive is the choir stalls with organ.
Cathedral of Palma de Mallorca
La Seu, the impressive cathedral of Palma de Mallorca, Image: Boris Stroujko / shutterstock
The cathedral of Palma attracts countless visitors due to the unbridled popularity of Mallorca as a holiday island. Parts of the cathedral were designed by Antoni Gaudí. Inside, the unique lighting conditions that originate from the 61 stained glass windows are particularly fascinating. In addition, there are the rosettes at both ends of the nave. At Candlemas in February and on St. Martin’s Day in November, the rising sun shines directly through the rose window on the east side and is reflected on the opposite side. From the terraces on the roof of the cathedral, the rose windows can be inspected more closely. From here, the view sweeps far over the old town and bay of Palma.
Seville Cathedral with Giralda
Seville, the capital of Andalusia, ranks high among the most popular city destinations in Spain with its cathedral and old town. The Giralda, the tower of the immense Gothic cathedral, even became the landmark of the Andalusian metropolis. The high altar with altarpiece is covered all over with gold, but the chapels and frescoes in the cathedral are also worth seeing. The largest altarpiece in the world was built between 1482 and 1564 and measures 20 by 23 meters.
Mezquita of Córdoba
The Mezquita of Córdoba, which is one of the largest sacred buildings in the world, resembles an impenetrable forest of columns. In the 16th century, a Gothic nave was built into the huge mosque and the minaret was replaced by a bell tower. The Mezquita was the main mosque in Moorish Spain and has a floor area of 23,000 m². Construction began in the eighth century. In 1984, it was included in the UNESCO World Heritage List, along with the old town of Córdoba.
San Lorenzo de El Escorial near Madrid
Not far from Madrid , in the middle of the Sierra de Guadarrama, the famous palace and monastery complex rises as the largest Renaissance building in the world. The facades are surprisingly simple for such a symbol of power. Inside, there are 200 chambers, 3000 doors and 2673 windows, as well as 16 courtyards, 12 cloisters and 88 fountains. The historic library hall in particular is worth a longer look. In the Pantheon of Kings with several chapels, numerous Spanish kings and their entourage were buried.
Santiago
The Way of St. James, the most famous pilgrimage route, leads over a good 800 kilometers through northern Spain from the Pyrenees to Santiago de Compostela. On the way, you will pass such well-known cities as Pamplona, Burgos and León, but also magnificent natural landscapes. Every year, thousands of pilgrims walk the main route of the Camino de Santiago and spend the night in the pilgrims’ hostels that are provided. The current route was created during the 11th century and is signposted by the symbol of the scallop shell.
If you travel to the Kingdom of the Netherlands, you are spoilt for choice: exciting cities, fine sandy beaches, picturesque nature and multifaceted gastronomy. It is not for nothing that several thousand holidaymakers visit the neighbouring country in western Germany every year. The most popular holiday destinations are often only a few hours’ drive away from each other. Combining several excursion destinations is very easy in the most densely populated country in the EU. So now it’s just a matter of packing your bags and choosing one or more of the most popular holiday destinations in the Netherlands.
Texel offers beautiful beaches and pure nature, Image: TasfotoNL / shutterstock
Beach lovers will get their money’s worth in Bergen aan Zee, on the island of Texel or in the seaside resort of Domburg, among other places. On the beautiful beaches there are different ways to enjoy the holiday season. Whether it’s a walk along the beach promenade, a hike through the dunes, a swim or a visit to museums or aquariums. A stay by the sea is also ideal for a relaxing holiday with your dog.
Bergen aan Zee is located in the province of North Holland and consists of two districts: Bergen and Bergen aan Zee. The place is known for its beautiful beaches and enchants visitors with artistic charm. Since the beginning of 1900, Bergen has been considered an artists’ village. In the summer months, arts and crafts markets take place there. In addition, the highest and widest dunes in Holland extend around Bergen aan Zee.
On the island of Texel, the largest and most versatile Wadden island in North Holland, visitors can expect unique nature areas, a 30-kilometre-long sandy beach and exciting activities. There are a total of seven villages on Texel, each of which is more magnificent than the last. While the bright red lighthouse in the north of Texel looks out to sea on three sides, treasures of beachcombers (Oudeschild), mudflat walks, the Ecomare Natural History Museum (De Koog) and other sights are waiting to be discovered and admired.
Domburg has the title “Healing seaside resort of Holland” and is considered the oldest seaside resort in the province of Zeeland. Those who spend their holidays there will be amazed by the wide, clean beaches, the healing sea water and the clean sea air. Domburg is also perfect for water sports enthusiasts. The beaches Badpaviljoen, Badstraat, Hoogduin and Noordduin offer optimal conditions for windsurfing, surfing and kitesurfing.
An unforgettable city trip awaits holidaymakers in Amsterdam, The Hague or Utrecht . In these places, city excursions can be combined well with nature, culture and shopping.
In Amsterdam, urban flair meets international charm. Historic buildings, narrow canals, famous museums and an exciting nightlife make the city one of the most popular destinations in the Netherlands. Whether by bike or on foot, whether from the observation deck (A’DAM Lookout) or on a canal cruise – the first impression of Amsterdam makes you want more. The cultural offerings range from the Van Gogh Museum to the Vondelpark, from the Royal Palace to the Hermitage Amsterdam and the Anne Frank House. Over 8000 buildings are listed in Amsterdam and give the city its special atmosphere. After a walk in the city centre, the food halls in Amsterdam’s west invite you to take a break. In the evening, numerous restaurants open their doors with international cuisine. Countless shopping opportunities round off your stay. In Amsterdam, visitors will find something for every taste, from rare antiques to extravagant clothing.
The historic city of The Hague is located in South Holland, just six kilometres from the North Sea coast. This is where the royal family resides. The seat of parliament and government of the Netherlands is also located in The Hague. The city is home to magnificent art museums, royal palaces and architectural monuments, offers its visitors exclusive shopping experiences and even freshly caught fish from the North Sea. By tram, holidaymakers can reach Scheveningen or Kijkduin by the sea in just 20 minutes.
The student city of Utrecht is one of the oldest cities in the Netherlands. In the heart of Utrecht is the cathedral with its 112-metre-high tower. The city has arisen around it. Utrecht has a car-free city centre. This is particularly suitable for relaxed walks, boat or kayak tours as well as shopping. The largest shopping arcade in Holland, Hoog Catharijne, is characterised by a wide variety of shops. In the streets “Lijnmarkt”, “Oude Gracht”, “Choorstraat”, “Oudkerkhof” and “Korte Minrebroederstraat”, shopping enthusiasts will also find a variety of shops for fashion, home or delicatessen.
Go on a journey through time
Holidaymakers can get an insight into the past in Zaanse Schans and Giethoorn.
In Zaanse Schans, pure idyll reigns. Anyone who arrives there feels like they are on a journey through time. An authentic village with small, typical Dutch houses, mills, a tin factory, a cheese and dairy farm and other craft guilds gives a good impression of life in the 17. and 18th century. Surrounded by blooming fields and curved bridges, the picturesque village invites its visitors to explore by boat. Zaanse Schans is located on the banks of the river Zaan.
The water village of Giethoorn is located in the Weerribben-Wieden National Park and is considered the Dutch Venice. There are no roads or cars in this place, but small waterways and over 170 wooden bridges. Giethoorn emerged from a peat cutter settlement. Peat extraction has led to the creation of ponds and lakes, while houses have been built on the islands in between. A round trip on a typical Giethoorn boat, the so-called “punter”, gives travelers a wonderful view of the beautiful farms from the 18. and 19th century.
Bastian Maria is a travel-loving photographer from Friedrichshafen on Lake Constance. In March 2020, Bastian and his wife Viviane planned to hitchhike around the world from Germany to Japan. Reisemagazin Online met Maria and Viviane with Bastian:
Reisemagazin Online: First of all, how did you come up with the idea of hitchhiking to Japan ?
Viviane: Bastian and I are both very enthusiastic about sports. Above all, the Olympic Games have fascinated us since our childhood. In 2012 in London and in 2016 we were able to experience the Games in Rio de Janeiro up close. After these two events, it was clear to us that we wanted to travel to Tokyo in 2020.
And why hitchhiking?
Viviane: We thought long and hard about how we could make our trip sustainable and as close as possible to the local population. So that we can immerse ourselves in cultures that are unknown and exciting to us. In addition, we wanted to be as sustainable as possible. If a car is driving in one direction and there is space, why shouldn’t we just go with it?!
2020 was the outbreak of the Corona pandemic. Did the pandemic affect the start of your trip?
Bastian: Yes, definitely. We had quit our apartment and job and had already deregistered from Germany . When we wanted to leave, all borders were suddenly closed. Actually, we wanted to start in March 2020, but had to wait until June. Then the first national borders slowly opened again.
And how did Covid affect you during the trip?
Image: Bastian Maria
Bastian: During the trip, it was especially challenging when it came to entering a new country. It was often not entirely clear which tests and which entry requirements were valid. Entering the country by land was usually not possible. Nonetheless, Covid has taken us to countries we wouldn’t have traveled to without the pandemic. For example, when we had to leave Kyrgyzstan, Pakistan was one of the few countries that allowed tourists into the country. Unforgettable moments and unplanned experiences have been created there. All in all, everything went mostly smoothly. Except that we never made it to Japan.
Why didn’t you make it to Japan?
Viviane: Japan did not reopen its borders before the Tokyo Olympics. Only the athletes, coaches and officials were allowed to enter the country under strict conditions. Even relatives, such as the parents of athletes, were not allowed to enter Japan.
How was the moment for you when you realized that you wouldn’t make it to Tokyo?
Viviane: First of all, we were a bit sad and it took the wind out of our sails a bit. We asked ourselves the question, what are we actually on the road for? However, we quickly agreed that Tokyo was actually “only” the reason for the trip. The actual destination has not changed during the trip.
How would you describe your goal then?
Bastian: From the very beginning, it was important for us to come into contact with foreign cultures. And as close as possible. We wanted to get in touch with people through couchsurfing and hitchhike from A to B. Get to know the country and its people in a personal way. Off the beaten track. Maybe support non-profit organizations in between.
You have certainly experienced a lot as a result. Is there that one moment that you would describe as the most impressive event of the almost two years of world travel?
Image: Bastian Maria
Viviane: It’s not possible to define the one highlight. However, there are a few events that you probably only experience once in your life. This includes hunting with an eagle hunter in the mountains of Kyrgyzstan. In Pakistan we were allowed to attend a traditional Punjab wedding for five days. In Turkey , we were allowed to hitchhike on a sailboat on the Aegean coast for a few days.
Reisemagazin Online: “If the trip was not finished by the Olympic Games, what motivated you to end the trip? Or is the journey not over?”
Viviane: I got pregnant on the trip in Sri Lanka . This was no reason for us to go home directly. However, Bastian and I agreed that the child should be born in the familiar home in Germany if possible. And so it was that we stayed in Sri Lanka for three months in Zanzibar before we were in Germany at Christmas in the 7th month of pregnancy. The birth in March 2022 was without complications. Since then, we have been a happy trio.
That’s great news. What are you currently doing and how are you planning your near future?
Bastian: Viviane and I are both self-employed. We are using the current time intensively to further expand our independence. From our trip, we are planning a travel lecture entitled: Thumbs Up – The Hitchhiker’s Guide to Japan. Here we would like to share our experiences with pictures, videos and stories.
In the near future, we would like to go to South Korea and still like to travel to Japan. Of course, we missed the Olympic Games, but to experience the country and the people would still be a great wish of ours. From now on, of course, the three of them.
I wish you all the best for your project. Thank you very much for the interview.
Of course, dog lovers always want to have their darlings on paws with them on holiday.
Most holiday countries have now adapted to travellers with dogs. Nevertheless, there are a few countries where dogs enjoy a lot of freedom or have more fun than elsewhere and that’s exactly what we’re introducing to you now.
6 most beautiful holiday destinations with dogs worldwide
1. Austria
Hardly any other country in Europe has adapted to holidaymakers with dogs as much as the Alpine republic. Austria not only attracts with idyllic guesthouses, chic hotels or cosy holiday apartments where dogs are welcome.
Austria is simply a dream country if you want to walk or hike your dog extensively .
In Austria’s mountain railways , dogs usually travel free of charge, but you must always have a muzzle with you.
2. Italy
“La dolce vita” not only pleases us two-legged friends, but also the dogs. Italy is a dog country and the times when scatterers roamed the country in a neglected state are over, at least in central and northern Italy.
The muzzle requirement also only exists on paper (nevertheless, as a foreigner you should better have a folding muzzle in your pocket) and nowhere else do so many dogs run on a leash or peacefully along the promenade as in Italy.
Enjoy the day at the beach together with your four-legged friend, Image: PIC by Femke / shutterstock
Thailand has the easiest entry conditions for people with dogs from the EU that you can imagine.
Apart from a pet passport, a chip, a rabies vaccination and a health certificate from the German official veterinarian, you don’t need anything.
In order to protect your favorite four-legged friend well, it can make sense to take out dog health insurance in advance. Some providers also guarantee foreign protection.
In the country itself, animals of all kinds are held in honor, as the Thais are all Buddhists . Only black dogs are sometimes viewed critically, as some Thais are then afraid of dark spirits.
The best time to travel to Thailand is between November and February, because the rest of the year is part of the rainy season in Thailand.
Unlike other Mediterranean countries, dogs are welcome on most beaches.
In some places, you can even rent a lounger for your dog on the beach.
5. Canada
Another perfect long-distance destination for people with dogs is Canada. Canada is a very safe destination and entry is very easy: all you need is the EU pet passport, a microchip and the mandatory certificate of a current rabies vaccination.
Then incredible landscapes and the perhaps dog-friendly people of this earth await you in this fantastic country. In particular, cuddly, very large, rare or cute terrier breeds are admired, petted and pampered everywhere.
What more could you want?Kayaking with your dog in untouched nature! City breaks in Vancouver, Quebec or Ottawa! Trekking through nature and seeing only beauty and wild animals for days!
If this sounds tempting to you, you should check airlines right away, transport the dogs and think carefully about whether your dog can take the flight.
By the way, many airlines allow small and medium-sized dogs to fly in a box in the passenger compartment.
6. Norway
To get to this natural paradise, you don’t have to go through flies or complicated procedures. Since Norway is tapeworm-free and wants to stay that way, all you need is proof of current tapeworm treatment and a pet passport.
The journey is easily possible by boat from northern Germany, Denmark or Sweden.
After a few hours of leisurely driving, cozy cities like Oslo and Bergen, endless expanses, great (but even in summer cool!) Beaches and of course the fascinating fjord landscapes.
Result
Europe and the whole world offer beautiful and worthwhile holiday destinations with dogs. No four-legged friend really wants to stay in his dog cave !
While Europe stumbles from crisis to crisis, the countries of Central Asia are redefining themselves with China’s help. Travel book author Thomas Bauer tells of encounters in Tbilisi, Tehran and Samarkand.
“Everythingis Chinese!” says Adil, pointing to the four-lane road that connects the popular Lake Issykkul with Kyrgyzstan’s capital Bishkek. The journey used to take six hours, now only two and a half.
“All this is Chinese” is often heard when traveling between Eastern Europe and Central Asia – whether it’s roads and railway lines, nuclear power plants and dams, or toys and food.
While Europe is increasingly concerned with itself, a fundamental paradigm shift is taking place in a huge area that has received little attention in this country. It becomes more visible the closer you get to China .
Bibi Chanum Mosque in Samarkand, Uzbekistan, Image: Thomas Bauer
“In the past, there was only one goal for us: Europe.” That’s what Hamza, who plays music on a party ship in Antalya , says. What he politely conceals from the German guest is that Europe is no longer a promise. Instead, the company is increasingly orienting itself towards the economically strong countries of the Arabian Peninsula and turning to Asia.
In the past, it was different: the whole country looked expectantly to the West; the economically weak eastern part of the country, Anatolia, was turned its back. In the meantime, however, the incomparable location between Orient and Occident is increasingly understood for what it is: a geostrategic trump card that opens up new perspectives.
Meanwhile, Hamza tries to impress a black-eyed dancer by turning up Okan & Volkan’s vows of love. “Halden Anlamaz”, it echoes across the sea – a hit created from Turkish folklore, Arabic influences and Western pop music.
Further east, in Armenia’s capital Yerevan, people do not speak well of Turkey . The latter still refuses to commemorate the victims of the massacres in the First World War appropriately. Armenia, which in 301 was the first country in the world to elevate Christianity to the state religion, has always been a bone of contention. For centuries, Romans and Persians fought over the fertile area. It once stretched from the Mediterranean to the Caspian Sea; today, the mountainous country offers a habitat for just three million people. Eight million Armenians live outside their country. Even the national symbol, Mount Ararat, where Noah’s ark is said to have stranded, is no longer in the country, but a few kilometers behind the border – in Turkey, of all places.
Thomas Bauer in the Old Persian Residence City of Persepolis, Image: Thomas Bauer
As soon as you leave the capital, you feel thrown back decades. Cows and goats cross pothole-strewn roads, “marshrutkas”, the Russian form of shared taxis, puff up dust-dry windings. Wherever you turn, your gaze quickly reaches a mountain that you can hardly get enough of – especially since a monastery that seems to have fallen out of time usually balances spectacularly on its abyss. Those who hold out here will be just as hard and frugal as the rock massifs that shape the landscape for a long time.
In the neighboring state of Georgia , on the other hand, they have managed to establish profitable tourism, which is kept alive with bus tours and bicycle excursions. The latest craze is a 240-meter-long glass bridge over the Dashbashi Gorge, with a diamond-shaped bar in the middle.
Especially in the villages, there is still genuine hospitality, which is expressed by feasting extensively with each other. The unsuspecting guest, who takes a seat at a long table for the first time, may think that the feast is over after an hour. After all, as a rule, people have not only eaten the starter – stuffed eggplant or a hearty soup – and a fish, but have also helped themselves unrestrainedly to the almost addictive cheese bread “Khachapuri”. Not to mention the wine, which the table master pours with a new toast with each course. But the fun is just beginning! Now the main course is served, shish kebab for example or mutton stew, in any case meat, with plenty of rice or potatoes and a few alibi vegetables. Of course, you drink wine with it again. Only when it comes to dessert do they hold back: some fruit and a coffee are enough – after all, the next feast begins in the early evening.
What a friend and colleague had driven you crazy when you left for Iran! You would be kidnapped there, they said, robbed anyway, spat on by fanatics and imprisoned by the mullah regime.
None of this is true. Instead, you meet friendly people who are looking for conversation, but who lack the intrusiveness that is widespread in large parts of the Orient. Yet they have reasons to hate the “Western” guest: After all, the sanctions ensure that money slips between their fingers and they have to keep their heads above water with two or more jobs. For example, they may clean hotel rooms in the morning, then cut customers’ hair and spontaneously become taxi drivers and tour guides as soon as they see a foreign visitor.
Iran’s cities are spectacularly beautiful. Tehran is a modern city where women wear body-hugging clothes and men sing along to the hits of Eminem and The Weeknd. The buildings of Isfahan and the gardens of Shiraz overwhelm you from the very first moment. In between, however, you drive for hours through semi-deserts, wastelands. At just under 50 degrees, the last shrubs wither. In the dried-up riverbed of the Zayandeh, children play football.
Iran has a water problem. Lake Hagun is completely dry at times, Lake Urmia, ten times larger than Lake Constance, could follow in a few years. This is not only due to climate change, but also to the construction of dams and the excessive irrigation of agricultural land. Perhaps, it is said behind closed doors, that is why the government is agitating so exaggeratedly against Israel and the USA: to distract from its own inability to solve the country’s most important problem. Iran is dying of thirst.
The lovable rascals of Uzbekistan
“That’s 30,000 soms, after all, I took a detour!”
Rustam smiles innocently, but at the same time sits up in the driver’s seat of his taxi and looks around him demandingly – a mixture that probably only someone who has offered services for a long time can manage. Of course, he only drove longer because, contrary to his assurances, he had no idea where in Samarkand the hotel he was looking for was located. The sum corresponds to five times the normal price; Rustam also speculates that his co-driver may only have a 50,000-som note. Then he could regrettably raise his shoulders, claim that he unfortunately has no change and see if he can get away with it. On the other hand, its price is still significantly cheaper than what a taxi driver would charge in Germany . In this respect, it is ultimately a good deal for both sides.
Even though Tehran is the largest city on the Silk Roads, its heart clearly beats in the Uzbek oasis cities of Bukhara and Samarkand. Their names alone create images of magnificent mosques, bustling bazaars and lovable rascals. And all this is true! Especially the thing with the lovable rascals.
The buildings score with sophisticated statics, curves and domes. They lack the unimaginative angularity that has the upper hand in Europe. In addition, they are richly decorated with artistic, sometimes mysterious mosaics. Above all, however, they always have new varieties of blue. Despite all their undeniable presence, they therefore seem strangely light. Perhaps they even express a longing for the sea – no wonder in one of only two countries in the world that are “double landlocked”, i.e. neither themselves nor one of their neighboring countries have access to the sea (the other such country is Liechtenstein).
Despite all the enthusiasm, one should not forget that most of the buildings were built by slaves. After Tamerlane, also known as Timur Lenk or Amir Temur, became sole ruler in 1370, he began his cruel and successful campaigns of conquest. Master builders, craftsmen and artists of the defeated peoples were brought to Samarkand, where they had to build mosques and palaces in honor of the foreign ruler.
30 years after the collapse of the Soviet Union, Uzbekistan is aware of its own strength. In the semi-deserts, gold and oil are mined. The “Afrosiyob” electric train, equipped with Spanish high technology, takes you to all the country’s major cities in no time at all – at a ridiculous price and with a service that would make any Deutsche Bahn employee sink into the ground in shame. Uzbekistan has even managed to build up its own car industry. The tourist potential of the Ferghana Valley is only just being discovered.
This increases the chances that typical German idiosyncrasies will continue to meet an Asian-influenced mentality in the future: While people in Germany like to address things directly, the relevant statements in Uzbekistan take place between the lines. Did the “yes” sound enthusiastic or hesitant? People also like to ask if they are happy at the moment: “Are you happy?” Anything other than a “But of course!” would not only be met with complete incomprehension, but would also be an affront to the hosts. After all, you are offered a lot (even if you don’t want some of it). You can give feedback that you are satisfied. About every half hour.
The “brother” that can be heard everywhere, however, does not correspond to the jovial American “bro”. After all, it stems from a completely different image of the family: the family, like the neighbourhood (“mahalla”), offers orientation, but at the same time sets tight boundaries. You take advantage of opportunities and earn money, or marry and raise children. Individual life plans that go beyond this framework are not planned. This is another reason why Uzbek hospitality often slips into over-care. Above all this, however, lies a trust in God, a devotion with a tendency to fatalism, which, combined with the local aversion to haste and hecticness, can be quite suitable to increase the feeling of vacation.
An old trade network leads to a multipolar world
Some Silk Road myths persist in Europe. For example, that there is a Silk Road. This has always been a network of trade routes. The name “Silk Road” was first used in 1877 by the German geographer Ferdinand von Richthofen. On the trade routes, not only silk was transported, but also furs, carpets, porcelain, jade and rhubarb roots, a popular laxative. In return, horses, jewelry, garlic, frankincense and kohlrabi were purchased. Ideas and inventions made their way to Europe – including paper and banknotes, the spinning wheel, the compass and the stirrup.
Above all, however, the Silk Roads are by no means a thing of the past; They are alive and kicking. China is expanding it with incredible investments. For 2000 years, from 500 BC until the discovery of America and the shift of trade to sea routes, the Silk Roads formed the backbone of global trade. China wants to build on this and is now focusing on the “Digital Silk Road”, fiber optic cables, 5G coverage and mobile payment. The “China Standards 2035” research project aims to promote Chinese instead of “Western” standards.
“You used to be the masters of the world,” Adil says with un-Asian openness, while in front of us Lake Issykkul, framed by four-thousand-metre peaks, seems like a promise. In the meantime, we have been on the road together for a few days. “In the future, however, there will be more than just one center of power. And somehow that’s fairer than a world according to the will of the USA, isn’t it?”
The fact that Europe is not interested in Central Asia could soon come back to haunt it. While in this country people no longer seem to be able to think outside the box due to ever new crises, elsewhere the course for the future is being set. You don’t have to approve of the current developments. But you should take a look: The future of all of Central Asia depends on silken paths.
Nikoi is a 15-hectare island 8 km off the east coast of Bintan, Indonesia. Family-friendly Nikoi is a unique private island that prioritizes sustainability and groundbreaking design. The hotel offers 22 exceptional handcrafted rooms for a maximum of 42 guests. The barefoot island can also be rented as a whole.
Long gone are the days when a hotel can call itself eco-friendly just because guests use their towels multiple times. The fact that the bar for sustainability needs to be raised much higher is shown to us by the private island of Nikoi near Singapore. Its multi-award-winning concept is in charge of sustainable tourism and plays a pioneering role in this area. Four defining pillars form a holistic balance: sustainability, community, culture and trade.
The American architect Peter Timmer, who has a passion for working with local materials, was commissioned to integrate the hotel complex into the breathtaking natural landscape with a sustainable design. Peter Timmer developed an architectural style that combines the typical design of solid driftwood with the grace and simplicity of modern design. An absolute design highlight is the double-arched roof, which acts like a chimney, pulling the hot air upwards and keeping the houses cool even without air conditioning.
He masterfully created a total of 15 two-storey beach houses with direct beach access and a large outdoor lounge, which extend over an area of five hectares and thus guarantee complete privacy for every guest. The remaining ten hectares of the island have been left as a nature reserve and are used by guests to explore.
The restaurants
There are two restaurants on Nikoi, one for families and one for couples or families with older children. Alternatively, guests can dine on the beach or on a private balcony. For those looking for something special, picnic baskets can be ordered and taken to one of the nearby deserted islands of your choice or to a secluded spot on Nikoi.
Some of the restaurants are supplied by the in-house farm. With an eye to the future, Nikoi has planted cashews, avocados, cocoa, nutmeg, and procured a wide range of unusual and ancestral species.
Spa & Leisure
Main pool on Nikoi
The spa is located in three large safari tents near the pool. Only natural products – such as local coconut oil – are used for treatments. And best of all, there are even massages for the kids!
Diving, stand up paddle boarding, yoga, tennis, windsurfing, sailing, fishing, hiking, spa treatments or simply lazing on the white powder beaches – there really is something for every guest here.
How to get there
The Indonesian island is located 85 km south of Singapore in the South China Sea. Nikoi is very accessible via Singapore International Airport. From Singapore, take a 55-minute ferry to Bintan, where a Nikoi representative will escort you to the Speed Boat Terminal and the island.
