All about travel

Mudflat hiking – a nature experience

PatrickJullien

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1. August 2022

Walking through the mudflats relaxes the mind and soul. See the endless expanse, feel the power of nature, enjoy the mud under your bare feet: For this alone, it is worth taking a walk through the mudflats. But the mudflats also have dangers in store, so a detailed mudflat hike should not be carried out without an experienced mudflat guide.

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Wadden Sea as a place of learning

At first, you may not be thrilled when the water, for which you went to the sea, is gone, leaving only a dreary, muddy plain. But there are many reasons why this change of tides in particular can be enjoyed. Children are happy about the mud, in which they can muddy to their heart’s content. And the parents can also watch in a relaxed way, because it is quickly washed off as soon as the water comes back. But the Wadden Sea has much more to offer than silt – that’s the name of the grey mud. After all, the receding sea exposes the seabed, which can then be explored. And it is teeming with life, even if it is not recognizable at first glance.

The Wadden Sea was protected as a national park in 1985 and divided into 3 national parks:

The Schleswig-Holstein Wadden Sea
the Lower Saxony Wadden Sea
and the Hamburg Wadden Sea.

It is also part of the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and thus serves to preserve biological diversity. Because not only worms, mussels, snails and crabs live in the Wadden Sea. It is also a unique source of food for birds and serves as a breeding ground for them. For migratory birds, the Wadden Sea is an indispensable resting place on the way south. Many fish use the Wadden Sea to raise their young. You can get to know this and much more information on a mudflat hike. Where does the mussel get its name? What are those heaps on the ground? And what happens when you tickle a shell? Especially for families with children, the hike with a qualified mudflat guide is a real nature experience. But even as an adult, you always learn something new.

Mudflat hiking for young and old

Mudflat hike for children — For children, exploring the mudflats is particularly exciting, Image: Company V / shutterstock

There are different forms of mudflat hiking. Depending on fitness and group composition, different routes and guided tours can be booked. With children, a special family tour is recommended, which includes a shorter route and child-friendly information. A real experience for fit people is a tour from the mainland to an island or vice versa. Some islands can be reached on foot at low tide, but some physical fitness is a prerequisite, as there is only a certain amount of time available for the route before the water comes back. Depending on the tide (i.e. the tide), the day trip begins or ends with the mudflat hike and the rest of the day can be spent on the island or the mainland.

Equipment

The equipment depends on where and how far you want to hike. Suitable sun protection is particularly important when hiking through the mudflats. Due to the lack of shade, you are exposed to the sun for the entire time when the sky is cloudless, which also reflects on the wet seabed and can lead to severe sunburns. Sunscreen and a hat are therefore mandatory! Sunglasses with UV protection should also be carried.

But wind and cold must also always be taken into account. On the water, the weather changes quickly and in the mudflats you are completely unprotected, so a rain jacket should also always be in your luggage to protect against wind and moisture.

It is best to wear shorts on the mudflats, even if it is a little cooler. Because in some places you sink into the mud up to your knees, long pants that are then wet cool even more than bare legs.

Of course, the foot cover is important. The mudflats are teeming with shells and stones, which can lead to severe injuries due to their sharp edges. Therefore, either special cotton socks with a cut-proof coating on the underside or neoprene surf shoes should be worn. Rubber boots are rather unsuitable, because you can’t walk in them for long and they don’t fit tight enough and therefore get stuck in the silt. They also fill up quickly when you cross a tidal creek. It is best to ask directly when registering for the hike what the mudflat guide recommends. For shorter tours near the beach, old tennis socks are often sufficient, which you simply dispose of afterwards. A small plaster set for any injuries is also recommended.

Wadden Guide Wadden Hike — Wadden Sea guides provide additional exciting information about the habitat of the animals in the North Sea, Image: Wild Poets Society / shutterstock

If the tour is at the beginning of the day trip and a stay on the island or the mainland is planned afterwards, you should have spare clothes in a waterproof plastic bag with you. But a plastic bag is also worthwhile to transport dirty clothes afterwards, especially if you still have a car journey ahead of you. An old towel to dry the cleaned feet afterwards and something to drink should also not be missing. However, the backpack should not be heavier so that you can enjoy the hike. If in doubt, you should distribute the weight on the different shoulders. Children can also carry a towel and a water bottle in their backpack themselves.

If children are involved, a magnifying glass or binoculars are also good for the finds in the mudflats.

With the right equipment and a little curiosity, the mudflat hike is sure to be a success, will be remembered fondly and ensures relaxation of body and mind on holiday.

Extraordinary accommodation options – Simply special

All about travel

PatrickJullien

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1. August 2022

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Extraordinary accommodation options – Simply special

Ready for a holiday but not in the mood for an ordinary hotel? Fortunately, the world has more to offer. Whether tree house, yurt or circus wagon, there is a lot to discover. Here comes a portion of travel inspiration!

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Unique accommodations for unforgettable trips – more options than you think

A nice hotel is a fine thing. But who really remembers it afterwards? Especially if you travel more often, all hotel stays somehow merge with each other. A hotel is just a hotel: relatively interchangeable. Unusual accommodation options, on the other hand, remain in the memory for a long time. After all, you rarely sleep in a unique accommodation. This list shows what is possible worldwide:

Treehouse
Railway carriage
Houseboat
Igloo
Yurt
Lighthouse
Lock
Tiny House on Wheels
Teepee
Trullo (Italian Round House)
Wine cask
Windmill

So there are many options that are a great alternative to normal hotels or holiday apartments. In addition to the types of accommodation mentioned, there are of course many more. One thing they all have in common, however, is that they are definitely anything but normal and are definitely a special experience.

High in the treetops: Spend the night in treehouse hotels

Sleeping in the tree house is a unique experience. You are in the middle of nature, can experience the animal world from a completely different perspective and feel the wind in the treetops up close. Representatives of the most beautiful treehouse hotels can be found on practically every continent. If you prefer a cooler climate, you will find beautiful tree houses in the forests of Sweden. For friends of warm temperatures, there are tree houses in the South American rainforest or on the Southeast Asian island of Bali. And anyone who thinks that tree houses are spartan is mistaken. There are now really luxurious treehouse hotels and treehouse villas. In some cases, even entire complexes in which several tree houses are connected.

Like the nomads: sleeping in the yurt

Trullo House — Overnight stay in the trulli house, Image: Balate Dorin / shutterstock

Traditionally, the yurt is a round tent-like building used by the nomads in Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan and Mongolia. It has enough space for the whole family, a fire pit or stove, and regular beds. In the meantime, there are yurts offered as accommodation worldwide. The unique accommodations are often located in national parks or in the middle of nature. For example, in the USA, New Zealand or Chilean Patagonia.

Not just for water lovers: holidays on a houseboat

Houseboats connect many with Amsterdam and the Netherlands. Of course, the canals of the popular capital or the Dutch canals can be explored with a houseboat . But a houseboat can also be a good alternative to a classic hotel if it is firmly anchored. Then, after an exciting day at the holiday destination, you can fall asleep in an unforgettable way with light rocking movements and the sounds of water. By the way, there are places to stay on a houseboat not only in the Netherlands.

Like the miller used to do: Spend the night in the mill

Mills are historical buildings that used to exist in practically every village. Grain, flaxseed or coffee were ground, but sawmills also existed in the past. In some places, the buildings have fallen into disrepair. In numerous places, the old watermills or windmills have fortunately been preserved, renovated and converted into overnight accommodation. There are numerous mills in Germany – from Schleswig-Holstein in northern Germany to Bavaria and from the Eifel to Upper Lusatia. They have often been restored by monument enthusiasts in such a way that they have retained their old charm and still offer overnight guests a lot of modern comfort.

Conclusion – Sometimes it can be something special

Fancy a unique accommodation? On die-besten-hotels.net there are extraordinary places to stay, whether near or far. Especially in Germany, the unusual accommodations are perfect for weekend and short trips to leave the stressful everyday life behind and recharge your batteries.

Sights on Spiekeroog

Germany

PatrickJullien

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31. July 2022

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Spiekeroog is located between the islands of Langeoog and Wangerooge in the Wadden Sea in Lower Saxony and belongs to the district of Wittmund. Except for a few logistics companies such as The post office and the emergency vehicles of the volunteer fire brigade and the ambulance, the island of Spiekeroog is completely car-free. The population of the island is 850 inhabitants. Tourism is the central economic factor – the island is visited by about 600,000 holidaymakers every year.

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The most popular sights of the island

Old Island Church

Spiekeroog Church — The Protestant Lutheran Old Island Church was built in 1696 on the East Frisian island of Spiekeroog, Image: U. Gernhoefer / shutterstock

The Evangelical Lutheran church was built in 1696 on Spiekeroog and is therefore the oldest surviving house of God on one of the East Frisian islands. It forms the heart of the island, is homely and cozy, so that you can feel quite secure. Services take place from the beginning of November to mid-March, but baptisms, weddings and funerals of islanders are held throughout the year.
However, non-residents with a “special island connection” can also be married in the Old Island Church. A prominent example of this was the Federal President Johannes Rau, who married in this church in 1982. Tip: It is only open at a few times, so check the schedule beforehand if you want to enter the church.

Museum horse-drawn tram

Spiekeroog is home to Germany’s only museum horse-drawn tram. As early as 100 years ago, this railway took passengers from the former station to the Westend. The drive through the salt marshes to the former Herrenbadestrand takes about 12 minutes. This experience is great for young and old. Tip: In the summer months, the train runs every hour from 12:00 to 16:00.

National Park – Haus Wittbülten

In this national park you can discover the Wadden Sea habitat and is especially interesting for the little ones, because in many places touching is extra desired and allowed. The nature trails and the aquarium with local fish and varied events are particularly sensational. Information on opening hours and current exhibitions can be found on the website of the National Park.

Island Museum

In an old captain’s house, in the middle of the village, the small island museum is housed. There you can learn a lot about the history of Spiekeroog, its shipping, sea rescue and about the customs and traditions of the islanders. The opening hours are daily except Tuesdays (closed day) from 3:00 p.m. to 5:30 p.m.

Dune Spa

In the Dünenspa on Spiekeroog you will find everything that pampers the body, is healthy and touches the senses. Not only the wide range of offers, but also the natural architecture invite you to linger. In the sauna area, you can enjoy beautiful dune panoramas alone, as a couple or as a family. You can find the opening hours on the spa’s website. Tickets should be reserved in advance.

Lower Saxony Wadden Sea National Park

After the rainforest, the Wadden Sea is the largest ecosystem on earth. There are about 4,000 different plant and animal species to discover here. The Wadden Sea has been a national park since 1986 and a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2009. By participating in a mudflat hike, you can learn a lot of interesting facts about the Wadden Sea and its tides. This is very interesting for the little ones, but also for the big ones.

De Utkieker

The 3.5 m tall, bronze-coloured sculpture depicts a naked man looking over the dunes to the sea. De Utkieker translates as “The Lookout” was designed by the artist Hannes Helmke and inaugurated in 2007. An enchanting walking path leads through Spiekeroog directly to the sculpture.

Island cinema

The small island has a cinema with state-of-the-art technology such as 3D film and Dolby 7.1.
Not only the current films can be watched, but also popular film classics are played again and again. The Inselkino is also booked for events such as readings, concerts and comedy performances.

Curious Shell Museum

Opposite the island cinema, in the house “Knogge” is the curious shell museum. In this museum you will find all kinds of shells that have been given imaginative names by their collector. The museum is open daily from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Special features of Spiekeroog

In the past, the island was only covered by sand. The Spiekeroogers began to plant the island, which over time made the flora more and more lush.
Today there are unique groves with ancient trees. The car-free island is interesting not only because of its landscape, but also because there are many different activities to discover.

Ostend – enjoy, stroll and “sea”

Belgium

PatrickJullien

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30. July 2022

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The port city of Ostend is located in the province of West Flanders. Almost 72,000 inhabitants live here on the Belgian North Sea coast. Numerous historic buildings and museums worth seeing bear witness to its eventful history.

With a unique promenade and the nine-kilometre-long shore area, Ostend is considered the “queen of seaside resorts” in the neighbouring country.

In addition to its well-kept, wide beach, which invites you to a relaxing beach holiday, the charming city has a number of other worthwhile destinations in store for its guests.

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Sunbathing, walking or water sports: a beach pleasure for all tastes

The coast off Ostend offers a completely different atmosphere on several beach sections. From the lively, popular “Groot Strand” to the quieter areas near Mariakerke or Raversijde, everyone will find the right place. Young windsurfers and water sports enthusiasts like to populate the sports beach set up especially for them. It can be a little louder here. The fine sandy areas are well equipped and await those seeking relaxation, families with children or partygoers. They all benefit from comfortable facilities and the safety of the local lifeguard.

As a special feature on the Belgian North Sea coast, the 67-kilometre-long tram line “Kusttram” connects all towns from the French to the Dutch border. On board this longest intercity tram in the world, visitors to Ostend reach their desired destination in a relaxed manner.

Not just for rainy days: art, culture and architecture in Ostend

With the St. Peter and Paul Church, which can be seen from afar, the city has a neo-Gothic cathedral full of historical details that is well worth seeing. After an extensive renovation, it is definitely worth a visit.

In the vicinity of the church building there are other interesting buildings and facilities steeped in history. But there is also a lot to discover in Ostend for fans of modern architecture. The cultural centre “De Grote Post” with its monumental copper sculpture and impressive glass and ceramic reliefs found a home in the listed Old Post Office building.

For those interested in art, a visit to the well-known “Museum by the Sea” (Mu.ZEE) is a must. It houses the works of Belgian artists from the founding of the state in 1830 to the present day; including many by the local painters Ensor and Spilliaert. Mu.ZEE also organises regular special exhibitions.
In the immediate vicinity of the city is the remarkable open-air museum Atlantikwall. Rebuilt bunkers, cannons and elaborate dioramas bring the events of the world wars to life in an impressive way.

The “Fort Napoleon” is also worth a detour. The mighty complex was intended to serve the troops of Emperor Napoleon Bonaparte as a wall against an English invasion. In the First and Second World Wars, the German occupiers then used it. Today, as a modern museum, it brings the conflicts of this time closer to its young and old visitors.

Anything but boring – Ostend with children and cones

Ostend Beach, Image: Oliverouge 3 / shutterstock

After days of sun, sand and sea, even the youngest tourists need a change. The kids can live out their urge to move in the “Hangtime” leisure facility. Numerous trampolines on 1,000 square metres and a ball pit for the little ones make possible hours of bad weather fly by. This also applies to the interesting theme park “Explorado”. In the project of the first Belgian astronaut Dirk Frimout, adults and inquisitive children alike rediscover the four elements of earth, water, fire and air in a fascinating way.

Families in particular like to visit the two lovingly preserved ships “Mercator”, a former sailing training ship, and “Amandine”, an old fishing cutter.
During the summer months, numerous events for young and old attract visitors to the city on the North Sea coast. At the “Theater am Meer”, an annual ten-day event, there are top-class performances by various artists to see. The Sand Sculpture Festival captivates thousands with its magical but ephemeral works.

Ostend, the Belgian “Queen of Sea Resorts” inspires its guests with the unique flair that only places by the sea radiate. The mixture of lively, modern city and maritime atmosphere not only conveys a relaxed mood to holiday guests. In addition to the sandy beach, which is up to 80 metres wide, and the long promenade, many cosy street cafés entice you to enjoy a relaxed aperitif.

In the parks such as Leopoldspark or the famous Japanese Garden, you can take long walks. The casino in the Kursaal, which is well worth seeing, provides some thrills for “risk-taking” travelers and the locals. Around the clock they can try their luck at roulette, blackjack and poker.
A successful holiday by the sea definitely includes extensive enjoyment. In countless restaurants, from the highly praised star restaurant to the typical snack bar, the Ostend residents themselves and their guests feast to their heart’s content. Especially along the promenade, the freshly caught fish is always very popular. It is served with the supposedly best fries in the world, which the inhabitants of the region like to emphasize with a wink.

Whether families with children, couples seeking peace and quiet, partygoers or ambitious water sports enthusiasts – everyone will find the ideal holiday pleasure in the city on the North Sea coast. The sea view and the fresh breeze of sea air are always included.

The most beautiful sights in Ostend

Tramhuisje

The historic tram station, which was built in 1903, is one of the landmarks of the spa town.
The listed building is the only surviving stop of the coastal tram, which still regularly stops there.

Lange Nelle

The Lange Nelle is popularly known as the 65-metre-high lighthouse in Ostend. It is one of the four lighthouses still in operation and has reliably guided seafarers on the high seas since 1949. The tower is not open to the public, but it is an interesting sight on a leisurely bike ride.

St. Peter’s Cathedral

St. Peter and Paul Church in Ostend — St. Peter and Paul Church, Image: Jean-Marc Pierard

The Church of St. Peter and Paul (Sint-Petrus-en-Pauluskerk) is the main church of the resort.
The building, which was built in 1899 under King Leopold II, is 72 metres tall at its highest point. The Roman Catholic church in neo-Gothic style was built on the ashes of a previous church. In 2004, Manufactur d’Orgues Thomas von Francorchamps built the Thomas organ, which has been part of the church ever since.

Anno 1465 Museum

The medieval fishing village of Walraversijde is one of the most important archaeological sites in the area. The village is being reconstructed and includes three fishermen’s houses as well as a bakery and smokehouse. In the museum, all finds and information about life in 1465 are conveyed. Tickets can be ordered online, but dogs are not allowed.

Fort Napoleon

The imposing Fort Napoleon was originally a military fortress. It was built in 1811 under Emperor Napoléon Bonaparte and was intended to serve as a base. During the two world wars, it was used by German occupying troops. After 5 years of restoration in 1995, Fort Napoleon was opened in 2000 as a museum with indoor and outdoor gastronomy for the general public.

Leisure activities for the whole family

Munical Swimming Pool

The municipal swimming pool was built in the mid-70s. It also has an outdoor area, a paddling pool for toddlers and an area for older children with two water slides. Adults can relax in the hot tub, Turkish bath and solarium. Sauna access is also popular, but it is not included in the entrance fee of about 3 euros. A café provides culinary catering during your stay.

Puzzle Escape Room

Exciting for the whole family – Escape Rooms are a popular leisure activity for tricksters and hobby detectives. The goal is to free yourself from a room full of mysterious puzzles. Each Escape Room is individually decorated and has its own mysterious story. Time is limited and only those who crack the code solve the puzzle and make it to the next room. The ultimate challenge for bright minds.

Billekarre – Go Kart

At four locations in Ostend there is the possibility to rent the rustic pedal mobiles. Whether alone, four or even six. The go-karts are available in different versions and are a welcome change from the usual bike tours. You can rent the vehicles by the hour or all day and explore the surroundings from a different angle.

Hangtime

The indoor playground is more like a play park. In addition to the 1000 square meters of trampolines, there are foampits, basketball hoops, dodgeball, fly yoga and for the very little ones an extensive play zone that invites you to discover. Hangtime also has a restaurant and a café lounge where you can relax with a drink and a piece of cake after all the action.

Short trip to Bruges

Bruges-Belgium — Beautiful Bruges, Image: TTstudio/shutterstock

Bruges is a small, romantic town near Ostend and is ideal as a destination for excursions.
Impressive architecture, small bridges, lovingly furnished shops and small cafés – Bruges exudes a charm of its own that will wrap you around your finger.
Sights such as the Rozenhoedkaai, the Bonifazius Bridge and the 83-metre-high Belfry, which are the perfect postcard motif, are just too kitschy and beautiful. The 13th-century windmills on the outskirts of the village are also worth a visit. Both mills are still grinding grain and can be visited.

Ostend is just as suitable for a cultural trip as it is for a family holiday, the varied surroundings and the interplay of activity and relaxation ensures a successful holiday in Belgium that will remain unforgettable.

Timmendorfer Strand – holiday relaxation at the German Baltic Sea resort

Germany

PatrickJullien

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29. July 2022

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Timmendorfer Strand – holiday relaxation at the German Baltic Sea resort

Few places on the Baltic Sea attract as many travellers every year as Timmendorfer Strand. Not far from Lübeck and within easy reach of recreational destinations such as Hamburg, Kiel or Fehmarn, lies the fascinating Baltic Sea resort, which in good weather stands for holiday relaxation close to the sea. The history of the village dates back to the Middle Ages, and today it attracts tourist attention with its beach, piers and family excursion highlights such as SEA LIFE Timmendorfer Strand. So it is not surprising that the village of Timmendorfer Strand is now one of the best places to experience the Baltic Sea coast.

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Holiday highlight – The coastal panorama at Timmendorfer Strand

The real highlight of the seaside resort stretches over about seven kilometres: the beach. It is not without reason that a six-digit number of holidaymakers are drawn to Timmendorfer Strand every year. Relaxation in the typical beach chairs on the fine sandy coastal strip of the seaside resort is popular. Especially in the warm months, the region becomes a lively holiday destination in its beach area. If you’re not on the beach, you can stroll along the waterfront promenades or stop off at one of the cafés, restaurants and bars along the shore. The beach panorama is also impressive with its striking piers. The Seeschlösschen Bridge, which in its modern form protrudes 150 meters into the Baltic Sea , stands out in particular.

But the heart of Timmendorfer Strand does not only consist of the beach and promenade. In the middle of the village is the New Spa Park, which offers a pleasant contrast to beach life in the sunny months due to its lush green. The Trinkkurhalle within the park is now a popular venue for events and events. Timmendorfer Strand is also still home to the Old Spa Park, built in the 1930s, which is a little quieter with its historic face. The mix of beach, parks and sights makes the Baltic Sea resort of Timmendorfer Strand a serious option for a multifaceted Baltic Sea holiday.

Niendorf – Relaxation at the beach and pier

If you want to get away from the hustle and bustle, you can visit the Niendorf district to the east. The tranquil town has a prominent harbour that is intended for yachts and fishing boats. If you are interested in regional fishing, you can also discover the Niendorf fish market here, not far from which small restaurants and cafés are waiting for a stop. Despite the rather quieter village, Niendorf is a popular centre for events and events. Harbour festivals take place here, as well as the jazz festival JazzBaltica, which is now celebrated annually in the spa gardens of Timmendorfer Strand. Niendorf also has a section of beach, but it is a little less busy and fine-grained, like the popular sandy beach in Timmendorfer Strand. For this purpose, Niendorf has the Niendorf Bird Park, which currently offers a home to about 1,000 birds, some of them exotic species.

Local recreation destinations – Sea Life, Hemmelsdorfer See and co.

For holidaying families, the Sea Life on Timmendorfer Strand is particularly interesting. Since 1996, the large aquarium has been on display in the coastal region of the village. The aquarium takes up a lot of space: On an area of about 1,500 square meters, a wide variety of themed aquariums can be discovered – from rainforest habitats to Europe’s coastal worlds to a tropical underwater tunnel. Sea Life provides another facet in the interesting excursion program around Timmendorfer Strand. The same applies to the natural Hemmelsdorfer See, which unfolds directly south of Timmendorfer Strand and Niendorf. The lake is a popular local recreation area in Schleswig-Holstein and has existed since the last ice age. There is a prominent observation tower here, and ice sailing is particularly popular when the season is right.

Lübeck, Hansa Park, Bad Segeberg – Popular excursions in the region

The Holsten Gate in Lübeck, Image: foto-select / shutterstock

However, those who choose their tourist accommodation in Timmendorfer Strand also benefit from a convenient location not far from the holiday highlights of Schleswig-Holstein. It is about 20 kilometres to Lübeck. The old town of Lübeck is not on the UNESCO World Heritage List for nothing. If you stay at Timmendorfer Strand, you should not miss local sights such as the Holsten Gate, St. Mary’s Church, St. Peter’s Church or Travemünde with its lighthouse and beach promenade. The popular Hansa Park is also nearby, which can be reached in 15 kilometres.

In an average year, millions of visitors are drawn to the park, which stands for varied entertainment with its attractions – from roller coasters to water rides. The excursion programme from Timmendorfer Strand is rounded off by popular day trips such as Bad Segeberg with its Karl May Festival on the Kalkberg, the port city of Kiel, the world metropolis of Hamburg and the holiday island of Fehmarn. One thing is clear: The popularity of Timmendorfer Strand is not only fed by the scenic beach location and the beautiful coastal region, but also by the optimal location not far from some of the absolute highlights on the Baltic Sea coast of Schleswig-Holstein

Discover Miami

PatrickJullien

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28. July 2022

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Located on the east coast of sunny Florida, which is considered one of the most popular US states for tourists, is the dream destination of Miami. When you think of the metropolis, the first thing that probably comes to mind is Ocean Drive, known from numerous Hollywood films, with its pastel-colored houses, where the city’s rich and beautiful regularly stroll. But the city is full of opportunities that usually remain hidden at first glance: In addition to beautiful sandy beaches, Miami has palm-lined piers, trendy neighborhoods with hip art scenes, living and dining culture shaped by international influences and, with the Art Deco Quarter, even one of the best-preserved area monuments in the USA.

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Miami Beach

Downtown Miami, Image: pisaphotography / shutterstock

While the city of Miami is made up of numerous districts such as Little Havana, Little Haiti, Midtown and Downtown, one district in particular is known to tourists: Miami Beach. Located on an island in front of the city proper, Miami Beach is only connected to the other districts by four bridges. With its numerous sights and long sandy beach, Miami Beach is considered the most visited district of the metropolis, which captures the relaxed and at the same time luxurious lifestyle of the city.

Hours of sunshine on Miami’s most beautiful beaches

The city’s long and wide sandy beaches are an absolute highlight, not only for sun worshippers. Under the motto ‘see and be seen’, tourists, celebrities and onlookers cavort on the popular South Beach between the colourful huts of the lifeguards, who do not want to miss the hustle and bustle of the popular tourist region. If you want to sunbathe a little more relaxed, North Beach is less touristy and offers hip and alternative restaurants, boutiques and cafés. The piers along the beach are also recommended for long walks and sports activities to watch the sunset on the sea.

Stroll along Ocean Drive

Ocean Drive Miami — The Ocean Drive, Image: marchello74 / shutterstock

The most popular and hippest promenade in Florida is Ocean Drive, which is known as the filming location of numerous Hollywood flicks. Although the promenade is considered extremely lively and touristy, it is a hotspot of the city that should be experienced. In front of the chic Art Deco-style bars and restaurants, there are numerous American classic cars that evoke nostalgia and at the same time underline the luxurious lifestyle of the district. With a bit of luck, you can even catch a glimpse of celebrities while strolling along Ocean Drive, and it’s not for nothing that the area around Ocean Drive and South Beach is considered the most decadent region of the city. For even more nostalgic moments with a real Old Hollywood feeling, take out one of the charming classic cars, which can be rented for a ride on Ocean Drive for a fee.

Local history and architectural highlights in the Art Deco District

In the center of South Beach, there are more than 900 historic buildings in the Art Deco style on an area of over two square meters, which stand out in the otherwise very modern cityscape with their house fronts in delicate pastel shades, the round shapes typical of the era and eye-catching neon signs. The neighborhood is easy to explore on your own, and the Miami Design Preservation League’s informative Visitor Center provides more information and impressions if needed.

Modern art in the open air in the Wynwood Arts District

The artistic heart of the metropolis is the Wynwood Arts District with its famous Wynwood Walls, which serve as a canvas for sophisticated graffiti artworks. Artists from all over the world present their works of art in the park in the open air, which changes the effect of the works of art depending on the atmosphere, making the district an interesting destination again and again. In the neighborhood, there are hip eateries and alternative boutiques to discover, making Wynwood all-round attractive to visitors.

Downtown Miami

In Downtown Miami, the numerous skyscrapers of the financial district rise up, which can be discovered in the nighttime skyline. The harbour in particular is a popular place to eat, dance and celebrate. The Adrienne Arsht Centers for the Performing Arts regularly hosts concerts by well-known artists as well as newcomers. With its numerous shops and restaurants, the Bayside Marketplace is also considered a highlight of Downtown, which looks like a huge open-air shopping mall. With a bit of luck, strolling around the crescent-shaped bay, where the shopping highlight is located, will be accompanied by atmospheric live music.

Little Havana – Pure joie de vivre

Miami South Beach — South Beach, Image: Richard Cavalleri / shutterstock

Lively, creative and full of joie de vivre – this is how the small district around Calle Ocho, Little Havana’s wide main street, can be described. Resounding music paves the way through the streets, which are lined with a colorful jumble of numerous cafes, restaurants, bars and small cigar stands. Due to the influences of Cuban cuisine, Little Havana is considered a culinary highlight that can best be explored on a culinary tour of Miami.

Day trip to Santorini

Carolin Prall

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28. July 2022

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Of course, Santorini offers enough sights to spend a whole week on the beautiful island of the Cyclades in the Mediterranean. Nevertheless, the location and size of the destination offers the perfect conditions for a day trip from the largest and most popular island in Greece: Crete

Perfect combination of two Greek islands

Take advantage of the island hopping opportunity and get to know two Greek islands, which are nevertheless very different, in one holiday. This way you get the most out of your annual holiday and collect many different unforgettable impressions.

For a successful day trip to Santorini , the alarm clock should be set for 6 a.m., because getting up early is a prerequisite for this. From the port of the capital Heraklion , you can use comfortable car ferries from several providers. The crossing to Thira takes 1:45 – 2:15 hours each way, depending on the ferry company. You can buy the tickets in advance online or directly at the port. However, plan enough time for this and find out about the departure times in advance to make the most of the day.

Once you arrive in Santorini, you will have enough time to marvel at the two most famous and worth seeing places on the island: Thira and Oia

To save time, consider using a taxi to combine the two places. Of course, it is also possible to drive your own car if you have decided to use the ferry crossing with your vehicle.

Santorini is of volcanic origin. Since the island is very high, you can still see the original volcanic crater from almost all known places. Powerful eruptions created a “caldera”, part of which sank into the sea. The fact that the island was actually round one day and not crescent-shaped as it is today can be guessed particularly well from the beautiful view from the city of Oia to the “caldera”.

Thira, Santorini — The capital Thira, Image: Mistervlad / shutterstock

Although Santorini is not the typical destination for beach vacationers, the island still has some nice bathing opportunities to offer. Especially in the southeast of the island, you can discover picturesque beaches of dark sand. Small restaurants and cafes are of course also available to round off a trip to the beach. However, if you’re only spending one day on the multifaceted island, you might want to save your beach stay for Crete. Here you will find very beautiful long sandy beaches, some with small pebbles, especially in the north of the island (e.g. in the regions of Anissaras, Malia or Georgioupolis) or in the west (e.g. Elafonisi).

The capital Thira is not considered one of the most beautiful cities in all of Greece for nothing. The absolutely breathtaking view of the dark blue sea, in contrast with the mostly cloudless light blue sky and the white houses on the rocky hillside, is incomparable and a postcard motif that you can find all over the world. The cave-like white houses with blue windows and doors on black volcanic soil offer a unique architecture. A leisurely stroll through the small streets and a coffee in one of the many small eateries overlooking the sea is a must during a stay in the capital. Of course, there are also many nice shops to stroll through, but the prices are unfortunately generally very high on the island.

Greece, Santorini — The famous white houses with blue roofs in Santorini, Image: Anastasios71/shutterstock

A little tip: When planning, try to pay attention to the arrival times of large cruise ships such as AIDA, TUI Cruises, MSC or even American shipping companies. This way you avoid overcrowded alleys and definitely save a euro or two, because many restaurants raise prices as soon as a large cruise ship docks. In general, the further away you are from the city centre, the cheaper the prices. It is also worth taking a short walk towards the city limits, because you will find many hidden small apartment buildings with abandoned terraces and balconies with breathtaking views without other tourists.

But the ancient city of Alt-Thera or the artists’ village of Oia are also in no way inferior to the capital as their “little sister”. The view is at least as beautiful as in Thira. The village is considered a little less crowded and is much smaller. It is quieter and more idyllic. Many visitors come to Oia mainly for the sunset, which is said to be the most beautiful to see here. Take a close look during a walk through the village, because you will always catch glimpses of dreamlike infinity pools in exclusive locations from various boutique hotels. In combination with the typical windmills of the island, which are located in the middle of the village, the result is an indescribable picture that you will never forget. Santorini is guaranteed to captivate you!

Tips for a legendary casino tour of Switzerland

All about travel

PatrickJullien

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28. July 2022

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Tips for a legendary casino tour of Switzerland

First and foremost, Switzerland is known for its breathtaking landscape, a unique mountain backdrop, the finest chocolate and famous cheese specialties. If you choose this country as a holiday destination, you are probably an enthusiastic outdoor fan and are either looking for hiking routes or opportunities to do winter sports there extensively. But the small state with its 26 cantons has so much more to offer.

There are great cities with a rich cultural offer and countless shopping options. The nightlife in the main centres of Zurich, Basel and Bern is also impressive. What many visitors may not necessarily be aware of, however, is that Switzerland also has a whole range of renowned casinos that have a high entertainment factor and are making a name for themselves far beyond the country’s borders.

Of course, enthusiastic gamblers can also enjoy their gaming pleasure in the comfort of an online casino Switzerland . The ambience of a sophisticated casino is of course also something special. If you would like to experience this for yourself, you will be warmly welcomed in the casinos of Switzerland and perhaps even encouraged to take a complete casino tour after the first few visits.

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How gambling is regulated in Switzerland

You may not suspect it, but compared to its neighboring countries, the density of casinos in Switzerland is actually very high. There are a total of 21 casinos, which are mainly located in the larger cities as well as the tourist magnets such as Davos or St. Moritz. In order to be able to officially offer gambling, a licence is required. Depending on the financial turnover and the size of the casino, a distinction is made between an A and a B licence.

The SFGB is responsible for awarding them. Behind this is the Federal Casino Commission, which also takes over the control of business activities and ensures compliance with the protection of minors and players.

In addition, it continues to have the important task of regulating the taxation of gambling revenues. And they are indeed not without their merits in Switzerland – between 40 and 80 percent are due on the gross gaming revenue generated by each casino, depending on the specific concession. Thus, the state earns well here and the flourishing business in turn benefits the municipalities as well as the common good.

Due to increasing digitalization, a strong market for gambling on the Internet has also developed in recent years. More and more online casinos have sprung up like mushrooms to offer their digital slot and card games to a broad target group.

Of course, this development was also noticeable in Switzerland. The oversupply quickly became opaque and of course offered a suitable breeding ground for all those companies that wanted to take money out of the players’ pockets with unfair methods. Of course, it is unthinkable to regulate, let alone monitor, this globally active industry.

However, due to the circumstances, a legal solution had to be found for online casinos in order to at least determine the handling for Swiss citizens. Finally, consumer protection should also be guaranteed in this area and a certain positive influence should be exerted on what is happening.

After a referendum in 2018 , the current regulations came into force at the beginning of 2019 and will continue until 2024. It stipulates that online casinos may not be run by private providers, but must be affiliated with one of the licensed casinos. An extension of the licence issued by the Federal Council applies to this purpose. To date, a total of 11 land-based casinos make use of this regulation and operate their own online casinos very successfully. In this way, they are opening up an additional player base that is less interested in experiencing evening entertainment in elegant casinos, but clearly focuses on fast gambling.

The law goes hand in hand with the fact that foreign providers are not allowed to operate in Switzerland. They are blacklisted and are automatically blocked by browsers to make access as difficult as possible.

Thrills of visiting casinos across the country

Getting to know several Swiss casinos at the same time is very easy to do if you are traveling across the country, because the locations are evenly distributed across Switzerland and are well connected to the transport networks. They are located in Bad Ragaz, Baden, Basel, Bern, Crans Montana, Courrendlin, Davos, Fribourg, Granges-Paccot, Interlaken, Locarno, Lugano, Lucerne, Mendrisio, Meyrin, Montreux, Pfäffikon, Schaffhausen, St. Moritz, St. Gallen and Zurich.

Exciting fun and all-round successful evening entertainment are guaranteed in all these locations. After all, they all come up with a very extensive variety of games and offer a whole range of slot machines in addition to classic table games. There is also a Swiss jackpot to crack, which, by the way, is the largest in Europe, the winnings of which do not have to be taxed.

However, gambling itself is not the only reason to spend an evening in one of the 21 houses mentioned. Rather, guests can expect a complete package of gastronomic offerings and the typical ambience of a traditional casino. Some casinos also offer a varied evening programme, which includes, for example, a lively bar, live music or special events.

The Grand Casino Baden as a special recommendation

Grand Casino in Baden, Image: Oscity / shutterstock

As much entertainment as is certainly offered at all locations, one casino in particular stands out that should definitely not be missed – the Grand Casino in the charming spa town of Baden near Zurich. Although the rooms are elegantly furnished, there is still no strict dress code.

Rather, the house attaches great importance to putting the feel-good factor of its guests in the foreground and to creating a relaxed atmosphere. At about 20 gaming tables, you can bet to your heart’s content – regardless of whether your player’s heart beats more for blackjack, poker or roulette. And fans of heavy slot machines will also get their money’s worth, after all, there are over 200 machines

However, the Grand Casino Baden is widely known for its extraordinary culinary offerings. Among other things, the complex includes its own fish restaurant and the much-visited cocktail bar forms the centrepiece. A great outdoor area is also available to get some fresh air after hours of exciting game rounds.

If you are looking for more nightlife or want to dance until the morning hours, you can simply use the two adjoining nightclubs. If you take part in a Newcomers Night, there is a guided tour including a welcome drink for free.

St. Vincent – a Caribbean holiday paradise

Caribbean

PatrickJullien

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27. July 2022

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St. Vincent – a Caribbean holiday paradise

A popular destination for cruises through the Caribbean, and yet a little off the beaten track – the island of St. Vincent, main island of the island kingdom of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, attracts with its contrast of idyllic beaches and deserted bays as well as wild jungle, mountainous wilderness and volcanic landscapes. St. Vincent, with its capital Kingstown, an area of 346 square kilometers and about 25,000 inhabitants, is part of the Commonwealth of Nations and its name dates back to 1498, when Christopher Columbus landed there on St. Vincent’s Day. The breathtaking Caribbean landscape attracts not only vacationers and nature lovers, but also film crews, so that several places on the island became the backdrop of the famous “Pirates of the Caribbean” films.

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St. Vincent – a natural paradise

The colourful flora and fauna of the island, the tropical forests and flower fields, deserted reefs, rocks and lagoons and the still active 1,234-metre-high volcano La Soufrière in the north make the lush green volcanic island with its steep mountains alternating with deep valleys a natural paradise par excellence. While rugged cliffs and rocky beaches adorn the east coast, black and gold sand sand meander along the west coast.

The temperature is around 30°C throughout the year (with minimum temperatures between 22 and 25°C), and the trade winds make the island slightly cooler than the rest of the Caribbean islands. The rainy season lasts from June to September, with around 23 rainy days in July and sometimes even hurricanes. The high season for travel to St. Vincent is between December and April, with high temperatures and sunshine, although downpours are always to be expected when touring inland and up the volcano. However, the months of May, June and November offer almost as warm and sunny weather with often lower prices. Between July and October, there are hardly any tourists on the island, as the humidity, the amount of rainfall and also the risk of hurricanes are higher. Saint Vincent is assigned to the Lesser Antilles .

St. Vincent – a paradise for water sports enthusiasts

The Caribbean Sea around St. Vincent is enthusiastically used by water sports enthusiasts for swimming, diving, snorkeling, sailing and deep-sea fishing. There are 35 designated diving areas around the island and it is not for nothing that St. Vincent is often called the “Critter Capital of the Carribean”: the breathtaking flora and fauna of the underwater world with coral reefs, mussels and shellfish, anemones, frog fish, seahorses and much more make boredom while diving almost impossible. And if this should arise, two ships have been grounded especially for divers, so that beginners can practice wreck diving. The Bat Cave in Buccament Bay offers a special attraction: here you can observe bats in their natural environment during professionally guided dives into bat caves.

City stroll through the capital Kingstown

Kingstown, St. Vincent — On the road in Kingstown, Image: Chris Allan / shutterstock

Another nice thing to do in St. Vincent is a stroll through the lively harbor and over the cobblestones of the capital Kingstown. It is most beautiful here when no large cruise ship has docked at the harbor and the streets are emptier. The market town of Kingstown is home to numerous shops and markets where you can buy a wide variety of spices and fruits. A walk through the fish market, the market building and the bustling Long Lane Upper is undoubtedly worthwhile, as well as passing historic buildings such as Court House and St. Mary’s Cathedral. The bay at the foot of the 736-metre-high St. Andrew and the adjacent Dorsetshire Hill is also worth seeing, and from Fort Charlotte, the island’s women’s prison located on a 180-metre-high mountainside, you have a beautiful view of Kingstown, St. Vincent and the Grenadian Islands.

The jewels of St. Vincent’s west coast

Nature lovers in particular will get their money’s worth on St. Vincent. On the west coast you will find the oldest botanical garden on the American continent, which was created in 1765 and is home to the rare and endangered national parrot, the royal amazon, in addition to extraordinary tropical plants. In addition, in the Layou Petroglyph Park you can marvel at rock carvings of the Caribbean Indians with unknown significance to this day and refresh yourself in a natural pool. The Vermont Nature Trail, a three-kilometer trail through the rainforest that crosses bridges and past viewpoints, will captivate hikers and birdwatchers alike.

Wallilabou Bay, St Vincent — Wallilabou Bay, Image: chromoprisme / shutterstock

Another “must-see” is Wallilabou Bay, a bay that was used as a filming location for the film “Pirates of the Caribbean” and where many of the original film sets can still be seen. Further north, Dark View Falls and Trinity Falls, located in the rainforest, offer a pleasant refreshment. In the far north of St. Vincent, you reach the Soufrière Mountains, a mountain range that rises up to 4048 meters, where the La Soufrière Volcano Trail, a hiking trail around and into the crater of the volcano, can be found. Finally, along the west coast there are some picturesque fishing villages with delightful, colorful houses and black sand beaches.

Worth seeing on the east coast of St. Vincent

There is also a lot to see on the east coast, starting in the fertile Marriaqua Valley with the Montreal Gardens, an anthurium farm located on the Teviot River. Here you can find all kinds of tropical plants, bananas, nutmegs, cocoa, breadfruits and coconuts are grown and numerous streams and rivers meander into the rocky Yambou gorge. Another attraction is the Black Point Tunnel, which was built in 1815 by English colonialists with the help of slave labor, was used to transport sugar cane and became another filming location for the “Pirates of the Caribbean” films. Finally, you can’t miss Owia Salt Pond: a beautiful seawater swimming pool near the village of Owia, surrounded by volcanic rock formations. Owia itself and nearby Fancy are two small towns in the north of the island that are worth seeing, which date back to Indian foundations.

Voyages of discovery into the Grenadian island kingdom

Even though the island itself already has a lot of excursion destinations and activities in store, it is a good idea to explore other islands of the Grenadines during a holiday in St. Vincent. The island of Bequia, for example, which can be reached by ferry within about an hour, attracts with its relaxed flair, the open islanders in the Caribbean harbour village of Port Elizabeth, the snow-white sandy beach Princess Margaret Beach and the beautiful views from Rainbow Castle or the district of Friendship. Canouan Island, which can be reached by plane, is also worth a day trip, especially if you want to admire the views of the Caribbean Sea, the pristine beaches and the paradisiacal bays overgrown with palm trees on a private island tour.

Grenadines – Leeward Islands

PatrickJullien

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27. July 2022

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Dreamy sandy beaches, crystal clear waters and picturesque landscapes like in paradise – the Grenadines in the Caribbean are an unforgettable destination for young and old. The cross-border island chain lies between the Caribbean Sea in the west and the Atlantic Ocean in the east. In the north, it is bordered by the island of St. Vincent , which is crossed by an impressive chain of volcanoes. The mountainous regions, on the other hand, are overgrown with dense rainforest, so that passionate hikers will get their money’s worth here.

The Grenadines are also called “the Leeward Islands”, derived from the wind direction of the northeast trade winds, which provide a humid, tropical climate in the area all year round.

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Temperatures in the Grenadines

The island state is located at the 13th parallel north latitude. Tropical rainforest temperatures prevail everywhere in the area. According to this, the islands promise wonderfully warm temperatures all year round. But especially the months of January to May are very popular with travelers, as this is the dry season in the Grenadines. From June to October, the amount of precipitation then rises sharply.

The lowest temperature is around 27°C degrees in January and February. The highest temperature is in August and September with 29°C degrees. Then there will be up to eleven hours of sunshine a day.

The water temperature fluctuates between 25°C and 28°C degrees all year round, guaranteeing ideal bathing fun.

The inhabited islands

The Caribbean island territory, which belongs to the Lesser Antilles , consists of a total of 32 islands, which are bordered west of Barbados and south of St. Lucia . Some of the larger islands are inhabited, while others live solely on nature. About 17,000 inhabitants live along the entire island chain.

Among the most famous inhabited islands are Bequia, Canouan, Mayreau, Mustique, Petit St. Vincent and many others.

Bequia

With its 18 square kilometers, Bequia is the largest island in the Grenadines and one of the most visited destinations in the Caribbean archipelago. Why? In addition to a species-rich, impressive underwater world and fabulous beach sections that look like powdered sugar, the island also has a large natural harbour in the main town of Port Elizabeth, which is a popular landing place for larger yachts and sailing ships. Port Elizabeth is the center of the entire island from a tourist point of view. An interesting and important attraction, which also vividly presents the history of Caribbean whaling, is the “Whaling and Sailing Museum”.

If you like a beach holiday, you should not leave out the most beautiful beaches on Bequia: The beaches “Friendship Bay”, “Princess Margaret Beach” and “Lower Bay” are all lined with palm trees and offer the ideal place to relax and swim. The fine sand resembles powdered sugar and promises unforgettable holiday memories.

Mayreau

The smallest inhabited island in the Grenadines is Mayreau, with about 300 inhabitants. There is only one street on the island and the only village that has a few bars and bars has had electric light since 2003. Salt Whistle Bay in the northwest is a nice anchorage for yachts.

Mustique

About 14 kilometers southeast of Bequia is the island of Mustique, which is privately owned by the “Mustique Company” and promises its visitors nothing less than 5* star holidays. First-class villas on the beach or high up on the tops of the hills offer luxurious ambience. On the island there is everything your heart desires: gigantic golf and tennis courts, breathtaking pool facilities, wellness programs and “barbecue under the stars”. With modern golf carts, the island can be explored in more detail. Particularly well-known: “Basil’s Bar“, which is located directly on the beach and is one of the top ten best bars in the world.

The uninhabited islands

The Grenadines include a large number of small, uninhabited islands: Baliceaux, Isle à Quatre, Petite Mustique, Petite Nevis, Pigeon Island and many more. All these Caribbean islands promise a picturesque backdrop and plenty of wild and beautiful nature. Particularly curious water sports enthusiasts are attracted to the uninhabited islands, as this is a popular sailing area and the ideal spot for diving. In addition to impressive coral reefs, there is another highlight for enthusiastic divers to discover: Two ships have been grounded here, where beginners and professionals can practice wreck diving.

Tobago Cays

The five uninhabited islands of the Tobago Cays also magically attract holidaymakers: The small islands are located a good two kilometres east of Mayreau and are a true paradise for nature lovers, water sports enthusiasts, sailors and sun worshippers. The best way for travelers to visit the islands is with an organized day boat trip. If you are privately on the water with a sailboat or yacht, you can moor at one of the prescribed anchorages. However, there are fees here, which the marine park supervisors collect on site.

Dreamlike bays and equally fascinating snorkeling and diving spots guarantee an unforgettable day trip on the Tobago Cays. The coral reef “Horse Shoe Reef” in the north convinces with its beautiful Caribbean underwater world and is a popular diving spot, especially for beginners. A little further east is the Sail Rock dive site, which is a popular destination for experienced underwater sports enthusiasts. A colourful variety of different fish and impressive green sea turtles are waiting to be observed more closely. If you’re lucky, you can even see nurse sharks and spotted eagle rays making their rounds through the shallow water. The clear, turquoise water guarantees perfect visibility! In addition, the Tobago Cays were the setting for the famous blockbuster “Pirates of the Caribbean”.