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Antalya by Night: Safety Tips and Recommendations for Driving in the Dark

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The beautiful city of Antalya on the Turkish Riviera attracts numerous visitors every year. At night, the city transforms into a lively hub full of activities and offers a unique atmosphere to explore. You’ll be able to travel with ease to the various attractions and have the flexibility to plan your own routes. Make sure you check the terms and rates of Antalya Car Rental to choose the most suitable vehicle for your needs. However, there are some safety aspects that should be considered, especially when driving in the dark.

Visibility is key

When driving in Antalya at night, good visibility is crucial. Make sure that all the lights on your vehicle are working properly, including headlights, brake lights, and turn signals. Regularly check the Floodlight and replace them if necessary. Also, keep your windshield clean to avoid glare and have a clear view of the road.

Avoid distracting factors

Riding at night can already be challenging, so it’s important to minimize distractions. Mute your mobile phone or put it out of range to avoid the temptation to read messages or take calls while driving. Also, be careful not to be too tired before you get sick.h ans tax. Exhaustion can slow down reaction time and increase the risk of accidents. If possible, share the ride with a passenger to reduce fatigue.

Observe the traffic regulations

Even though the roads in Antalya may be less busy at night, it is still important to follow the traffic regulations. Stick to the speed limits and adjust your speed to the road conditions. Be attentive to road signs and traffic lights to avoid accidents. Make sure you have a valid driver’s license and watch out for other vehicles and pedestrians.

Plan ahead

Panoramic view of Antalya
Panoramic view of Antalya’s old town, Image: Boris Stroujko / shutterstock

Before you set off, plan your route in advance. Use navigation devices or maps to find the best route to your destination. Also take into account any roadworks or road closures that could affect your route. Find out about parking options near your destination to avoid stress and lost time when looking for a parking space.

Be vigilant and careful

In an unfamiliar environment, it is important to be extra vigilant. Keep an appropriate distance from other vehicles and watch out for unforeseen obstacles or sudden braking maneuvers by other drivers. Stay focused and react quickly to potentially dangerous situations. Avoid excessive braking or sudden acceleration to ensure a stable and safe ride.

Use public transport or taxis

If you’re concerned about driving at night or just prefer a stress-free alternative, consider public transportation or taxis. Antalya has a well-developed public transport network that allows you to travel around the city comfortably and safely. Taxis are also a practical option and offer you the convenience of professional driver assistance.

Find out about local security situations

Before you start your nighttime adventures in Antalya, it is advisable to find out about the current security situation. Check travel warnings or advice from official sources to be aware of any risks or special precautions. Note that security conditions are subject to change. Therefore, it is important to stay up to date.

Result

Driving at night in Antalya requires special attention and caution. Ensure good visibility of your vehicle, minimize distractions and comply with traffic regulations. Plan ahead, be vigilant and careful, and use public transport or taxis if necessary. Find out about the current security situations and enjoy the nocturnal beauty of Antalya in a safe way.

A journey into nature: Why motorhome tours are environmentally friendly

A journey into nature: Why motorhome tours are environmentally friendlyIt is not only since Corona that the enthusiasm for independent, nature-oriented travel has been growing – whether by tent or motorhome. The latter in particular, long ridiculed as pensioner-like, is experiencing a revival among younger people. The reasons are obvious: With a motorhome, campervan or caravan, it is possible to travel far away from civilization and mobile in nature. It is also more luxurious than a tent holiday. The best way to start your holiday or road trip is with your own mobile hotel right on your doorstep. Long and environmentally harmful journeys by plane are avoided in this way.

Motorhome and sustainable

Anyone who likes to travel knows that the size of the CO2 footprint is largely determined by the type of journey. Cruises are the most harmful to the climate, followed by travel by plane. All other mobility variants are among them – i.e. they have a lower CO2 footprint. Especially with the topic of sustainability in mind, the question certainly arises for one or the other: How environmentally friendly are motorhome tours?

The answer depends on several factors. Among other things, of course, on the length of the distance to be covered and the length of the stay at the destination(s). But driving behaviour or the number of passengers also have an influence.

If the holiday destination is not too far away and the stay is comparatively long, a motorhome holiday is more environmentally friendly than, for example, travelling by car plus staying in a hotel. This is because classic hotels often release significantly more CO2 equivalents than an overnight stay at a campsite or even camping close to nature.

Climate-friendly holidays with a motorhome = slow travel

It goes without saying that holidays in the vicinity are more environmentally friendly than those with long, fuel-intensive journeys. So if you want your motorhome holiday to be as climate-friendly as possible, it is advisable to travel slowly. This means: rather few, but longer vacations that start right on the doorstep and/or lead over shorter distances. If the destination is further away, it is worthwhile to travel by train in a climate-friendly way and rent a camper or motorhome on site.

Rent a motorhome instead of buying

Especially if

tours are planned for beginners

, it proves to be practical to rent the mobile sleeping place instead of owning such a vehicle yourself. But renting is also recommended for experienced caravanners. If you decide to travel by motorhome, you should think carefully about whether it really needs to be your own vehicle. This is because this already causes a large ecological footprint during production. In addition, there is the financial burden of acquisition and maintenance as well as the need for space. Because: As a rule, the vehicle stands around unused and space-consuming for many months of the year. A big plus point of renting: You don’t have to worry about where the large vehicle is parked when you are not on the road. The only costs that holidaymakers face are the rental price, petrol and pitch costs.

Other factors that reduce the CO2 footprint

Other factors have an influence on the environmental friendliness of motorhome travel. If you don’t necessarily need a rolling palace, you should choose small models or the smallest possible variant, depending on the number of passengers. If you are traveling as a couple, you could, for example, camp in a small van the size of a VW bus. A group of several people makes the right choice with a slightly larger motorhome with three or more berths. In addition, you should rely on newer vehicles, as the engines work much more efficiently and therefore require less fuel. Most motorhome rental companies have a modern fleet of vehicles. By the way: The size of the load is also a factor that should not be underestimated. Less weight means less fuel consumption and thus protects the environment. Pack as much as necessary, but as little as possible. If you want to be climate-friendly mobile at your holiday destination or during stopovers, pack your bikes or rent them on site. In this way, you can leave the motorhome on the pitch and explore the surroundings completely fuel-free by bike.

Cornwall – so dusty!

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Cornwall, the county in the far southwest of Great Britain, is known on the one hand for its past as a smuggler’s paradise, as a supplier of tin, porcelain clay (kaolin) and as a film location for Rosamunde Pilcher films or the series Poldark.

On the other hand, Cornwall is also known for its breathtaking landscape, with fantastic beaches, turquoise blue water, idyllic fishing villages and meter-high cliffs where the Atlantic waves break. In short, a beautiful holiday resort that offers everything for both the nature lover with or without a dog, artist, beach lover or athlete.

From Arthurian legend to star chef – the northwest of Cornwall

Cornwall
Image: ian woolcock / shutterstock

No country manages this balancing act between modernity and history better than Great Britain. In Cornwall, you can feel this mix, meant positively, with full force.

The North West of Cornwall is lined with a rugged and rugged coastline dotted with many small historic fishing villages. Whether Boscastle or Port Isaac, you can immediately feel the long tradition of fishing here.

Between these two places is the historical origin of the Arthurian legend – Tintagle Castle with the alleged birthplace of King Arthur, who was raised by Merlin the Great Magician. High above the Atlantic Ocean, the ruins of Tintagle Castle stretch across two headlands connected by a spectacular new suspension bridge.

A few kilometers further south, a magician of modern times is at home. Rick Stein, the famous British star chef, has set up shop in Padstow with several top restaurants and shows there that British cuisine is much better than its reputation.

Surfing, beach and art

If you drive further south, Newquay (pronounced New-Key) is one of the surfer hotspots in Europe. The elongated waves and rough cliffs offer perfect conditions for all water sports enthusiasts and Fistral Beach and Watergate Bay host international surfing events every year.

As the motherland of golf, there are of course also numerous golf courses, some with spectacular views of the coast and the sea.

St. Agnes
St. Agnes, Image: Anna Moskvina / shutterstock

The St. Agnes Heritage Cove invites you to a relaxing excursion with the town of St. Agnes of the same name. Trevaunance Cove is an absolute highlight.

From there, head to St Ives, known for the Tate art museum. With beautiful and long beaches, St Ives offers a feeling that is more reminiscent of the Caribbean than England. For art lovers, the Tate and numerous galleries offer plenty of material to linger, while beach lovers chill out under palm trees on the beach and eat delicious Cornish ice cream.

The South – the end of Great Britain

Lands’End, Image: Paolo Trovo / shutterstock

The south has two end points in Great Britain. Namely, Land’s End, the southwesternmost point, and Lizard Point, the southernmost point of Great Britain. Both sights should not be missed on any trip, as they offer completely different landscapes.

The southwest is characterized by its long history as a tin mining area. Ancient ruins and chimneys line the Penwith Heritage Coast, transporting you to a fantasy world.If you’re looking for artistic entertainment, plan a visit to the Minack Theatre. The amphitheatre, carved into the rocky coast, convinces with a varied theatre programme and indescribable views.

In addition, St. Michael’s Mount, a castle on an island that can be reached during low tide via a paved path, is one of Cornwall’s most famous landmarks. Cute fishing villages such as Porthleven, Mousehole or Marazion invite you to linger. On the Lizard Peninsula, you should definitely have Mullion Cove, Kynance Cove, Lizard Point and Cadgwith on your itinerary.

For garden lovers, a visit to the Eden Project is a must. Here, the English archaeologist and garden lover Tim Smit has created a botanical garden that is unparalleled in Europe. In two large geodesic domes, he has created greenhouses that depict plants from different climate zones. The Eden Project also includes The Lost Gardens of Heligans, a few kilometres away. On over 400 hectares, there is something for every taste on the spacious grounds.

The Southeast – the hidden diamond

Cornwall Coast
Cornwall offers fantastic beaches and coasts, Image: Albert Pego / shutterstock

The south-east of Cornwall is commonly referred to as the hidden diamond. At first glance, the coastline is not as spectacular as the north or southwest coast, but with its numerous beaches, bays and estuaries, it convinces all along the line.

If you have planned some time, we recommend a hike along the Coastal Path to St. Anthony Head. The view of the bay of Falmouth, protected by the old fortifications, is magical.

St Mawes, Mevagissey or Falmouth are interesting stops on this section. Lovers of historic ships stop in Charlestown and get their money’s worth there. Fowey, a picture-perfect town, Looe and Polperro are also highly recommended towns on this route. If you drive further east, you will slowly come to the eastern border of Cornwall before crossing it at Plymouth towards the county of Devon. Shortly before that, however, it is worth taking a detour to the Rame Head Heritage Coast and Mount Edgcumbe House and Country Park with a beautiful view of Plymouth Bay.

Where to sleep in Cornwall?

Since Cornwall is not only popular with the British as a holiday destination, there are numerous places to stay in Cornwall. From holiday homes and apartments, glamping and camping offers to bed & breakfast, there is the right accommodation for every wish and every budget. During the high season, which runs from the end of June to the end of August, you should definitely make a reservation in advance.

Cornwall is always worth a visit

The best time to travel to Cornwall for me is May to mid-June or mid-September to early October. This way you can avoid the peak travel season, find cheap accommodation offers and enjoy the tranquility of Cornwall to the fullest.

The guest post was written by Nick from the travel blog “Cornwall & Meer” (
https://cornwall-meer.de
). Nick has been travelling regularly to Cornwall for 10 years and enjoys renting holiday homes there. He writes about his experiences on his travel blog and shares his tips and tricks for Cornwall with his readers.

I’m packing my suitcase – tips for the right luggage

On an upcoming trip, preparation plays a central role for success and the relaxation factor. This way you ensure a relaxed start and have all the necessary accessories for the holiday at hand. But when packing your suitcases, but also when choosing the right luggage, there are many pitfalls lurking. We show you how to keep an eye on all the important points during your preparation.

Create a thorough checklist

Before you start the actual packing of the suitcases, you should create a thorough checklist. Certainly, meticulously writing down the necessary utensils is not only not much fun at first glance, but can also take a long time. At the same time, however, the list makes the actual packing of bags and suitcases much easier. Apps can also be a valuable tool when creating a corresponding list. The individual points can be conveniently entered here and ticked off when completed. This way, you always have an overview, and most of these planning apps are available free of charge for all common platforms. If you prefer to use the classic version with paper and pen, you can create categories with different colors to highlight particularly important medications, for example. This provides more clarity and prevents these essential accessories from being forgotten.

High-quality cases and bags make the difference

But the best list is of little use if the right luggage is missing. Especially for longer trips, sturdy, high-quality bags and suitcases are essential. These can easily cope with the high weight that has to be moved on holiday. In addition, there is the possibility to use corresponding accessories with important additional functions. This applies, for example, to practical wheels on the underside, a padded carrying strap or even an integrated lock to prevent unauthorized access to the contents. In general, good suitcases are not really cheap, but the investment is worth it. The luggage proves to be a stable and long-term companion even under high loads.

Tip: Modern suitcases and bags not only impress with a high practical use, but are also often considered a fashion accessory. Elaborate patterns and colours, different materials or well-known themes are taken up in the design to provide the desired variety. There are also elaborately designed products for children with the favorite hero from well-known series or books.

Think about your pets too

Before you successfully start your holiday with packed suitcases, you should also think about caring for your pet. In many cases, it is not easy to take with you. This applies, for example, to many small animals, such as a hamster. But in the meantime, there are good opportunities to increase the well-being of animals even when they are away with suitable pet supplies. This applies, for example, to a stable stable for animals that generally live outdoors. Corresponding offers in excellent quality are available at surprisingly low prices for chickens, for example. There is also the right product for rabbits or rabbits, for example with a large stable with numerous activities and retreats. With the right equipment, your pets can relax and enjoy their time in their familiar surroundings, while you forget your worries and gather new impressions while travelling.

Tips and tricks for entering the USA with ESTA

When planning your trip to the USA, you should be aware that the US border is one of the toughest in the world. Thousands of tourists are denied entry every year because of mistakes at the border. The typical “entry fails” can be easily avoided.

1. Passport control and conversation with U.S. border officials

Travelers from the 40 “visa waiver countries” that have been exempted from their visa requirements by the U.S. government can use ESTA to get to the U.S. cheaper, faster and easier. After filling out an ESTA application , the electronic travel authorization will land in the mailbox after 72 hours at the latest.

However, as an ESTA traveler, you are also subject to special requirements. For example, they are not allowed to work or study in the USA and are only allowed to stay for 90 days at a time. When you enter the country, a U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officer will therefore question you about these topics.

Questions such as “How long are you staying in the US?” and “Who are you visiting?” are intended to find out whether you are planning to immigrate illegally or work in the USA. If there is even the slightest suspicion that you want to immigrate or lie in conversation, you will be denied entry to the USA.

Tip:

Prepare well for the conversation with the border officials and have evidence ready in case of emergency. These can be, for example, return or onward travel tickets or documents that prove a commitment to your home country (e.g. a rental or employment contract). Impeccable behavior (politeness and willingness to cooperate) are of course mandatory when talking to the border officials.

2. Baggage checks and background checks

When entering the U.S., border patrol agents are authorized to search not only your luggage, but also your electrical devices. You are not obliged to give out passwords, but in order to continue your journey, it is recommended that you at least allow the staff to look into the desired areas (e.g. your laptop drives).

It looks for illegal or critical content that you could identify as a threat to homeland security or the people of the United States. It can also happen that the authorities take a look at your publicly accessible social media profiles.

Tip:

As a security measure, we recommend that you clean up all publicly visible data of critical content and do not store any illegal photos, videos or other problematic documents on your data carriers. Even the slightest suspicion can deny you entry to the USA.

3. Luggage for the USA

The following applies to your luggage in the USA: Pack carefully! For example, there should be no copies of certificates in your hand luggage, so that there is no suspicion at the border that you are planning to take up work in the USA.

Among other things, the carriage of food and medicines is also strictly regulated. It goes without saying that you have to comply with US import regulations and the requirements of your airline when packing your suitcase.

Tip:

Shortly before your flight to the USA, read the entry requirements for the USA. You can find these on your airline’s website, for example. To prevent damage when searching suitcases, also get a TSA suitcase lock, for which the U.S. Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has a master key.

4. State of health and medication

When applying for the ESTA USA , you will be asked about your state of health. However, these are only contagious and difficult-to-treat diseases that could pose a danger to fellow travelers or the internal security of the United States.

So if you only show up at the border with a flu-like infection, there should be no problems entering the USA. However, U.S. Border Patrol agents are paying special attention to medications carried.

Tip:

Before your trip to the USA, get a doctor’s letter with letterhead, date, the reason for taking a medication and the recommended daily dose. In addition, only take as much of your medication with you as you absolutely need for your stay in the USA.

5. Watch out for entry restrictions

The political situation between the US and other countries is very dynamic. For example, it can happen that the US security authorities suddenly impose entry bans or ESTA restrictions on certain travelers.

During the Corona pandemic, for example, there was an obligation to present tests and vaccinations, and recently a visit to Cuba was declared an exclusion criterion for the ESTA procedure.

If you are not well informed, you may risk entering the USA. If you are no longer eligible for the ESTA procedure because the entry requirements have changed, you will need to apply for a US visa to cross the border.

Tip:

To prevent yourself from standing at the airport with your suitcases packed and losing a lot of time and money, apply for your ESTA early and always keep up to date with political changes and new entry requirements. The earlier you are informed, the more time you have to switch to the alternative procedure of the classic US visa in order to be able to travel to the USA as planned.

6. Good timing

It happens more often than we would like that tourists only realize at the airport: We need an ESTA to enter the USA! The result is entire families who type their ESTA data into their smartphones shortly before departure and hope for quick approval.

Although it actually often works to obtain an ESTA authorization within a few minutes, the US authorities point to a maximum processing time of 72 hours.

Tip:

Apply for your ESTA authorization at the beginning of your travel planning.

 

Remember that a valid ESTA authorization, good preparation, and some prior knowledge can go a long way toward a smooth entry into the United States. We wish you a nice holiday!

Bregenz – a city on the lake

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The city of Bregenz in the west of Austria offers locals and visitors an interplay of opposites. On the one hand, the city of 28,000 inhabitants is located on the fantastically beautiful Lake Constance, on the other hand, it is surrounded by mountains. On the one hand, there is a relaxed rhythm, as you find it in a small town. On the other hand, the Vorarlberg capital is characterised by international cultural offerings. All this gives Bregenz a very special flair.

The Bregenz Upper Town

The historic alleys, which resemble a labyrinth, are called the upper town – and that’s no coincidence. The upper town is located on a slight hill. It is recommended to take a long walk through this beautiful district of Bregenz. In the upper town, the hustle and bustle of tourists on the lakeshore is far enough away, so there is a relaxed atmosphere. There are only a few restaurants here, but there are many pretty, cobblestone streets and historic half-timbered houses.

St. Martin’s Tower

The upper town is basically a sight in itself, but there are also a few places and buildings that are very special. The view from the Martinsturm offers a great view here. It is Bregenz’s landmark and also houses a museum. It is best known for the fact that you can enjoy a wonderful view over Bregenz and Lake Constance from the top floor.

The harbour and the lakeshore

As a tourist in Bregenz, of course, you can’t avoid the famous waterfront promenade. The impressive lake stage is a real visitor magnet and should not be missing from any photo collection from Bregenz. Another popular photo motif is the so-called Fischersteg. In sunny and warm weather, you can enjoy something refreshing in the bar in the white pavilion while watching the wonderful sunset. A popular photo motif is also the so-called Fischersteg. The white pavilion actually houses a bar. So when the weather is nice, you can enjoy a glass of Prosecco here while watching the sunset.

Festspielhaus Bregenz

Carmen, Festspielhaus Bregenz
The stage of the Festspielhaus in 2017 for the production of Carmen, Image: RukiMedia / shutterstock

Every year, the Festspielhaus counts around 400,000 enthusiastic visitors. So it has made a name for itself far beyond the region as an attractive host. In addition to social and cultural events as well as events by certain companies, the Festspielhaus has been able to visibly demonstrate its competence as an organiser of international congresses and conferences, especially in recent years. It was even named one of the three best convention centers in the world by the International Association of Convention Centers in 2004 and 2010. In 2011, it was also voted number 1 of the best event centres in its category at European level by the European Association. In the summer months, in addition to the play on the lake stage, performances of the Bregenz Festival are also shown in the rooms of the congress centre.

The Kunsthaus Bregenz

No stay in the beautiful city should end without a visit to the Kunsthaus. When visiting Bregenz, no matter how short it may be, the imposing Kunsthaus is simply not to be missed. International and contemporary art is exhibited here. Of course, the exhibitions change regularly, so it’s not so much about the respective content. The atmosphere itself is overwhelming enough, so you can only be surprised by the exhibition.

The Pfänder

Bregenz Lake Constance
Relaxing at Lake Constance, Image: Yolo Art / shutterstock

Bregenz’s local mountain (Pfänder) rises above the city on the eastern shore of Lake Constance. Once at the top, you have a fascinating view of Bregenz and Lake Constance. You can climb the Pfänder on foot or enjoy the ride up with the Pfänderbahn. It takes just six minutes from the old town to the mountain station, which is located at about 1000 meters above sea level. From there you can still decide on a hike or just fortify yourself a bit and enjoy the view.

The Vorarlberg Museum

Even if you don’t necessarily count yourself as a museum lover, a visit to the Vorarlberg Museum is still worth a visit. The great architecture alone makes this special museum a real eye-catcher. In 2013, a new building of the museum was opened, which was really impressively designed. In the Vorarlberg Museum, the history (up to the present) of the state of Vorarlberg is presented very comprehensively and extensively. A visit to the museum is therefore perfect if it rains or you are looking to cool off on a hot summer’s day. A little tip on the side – on the 4th floor you can take a great photo of Lake Constance through a panoramic window or just enjoy the view.

Heraklion: Lively island metropolis full of history and culture

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One of the most popular holiday destinations in Greece is the island of Crete. If you spend your holiday here, you should definitely visit Heraklion. The largest city on the island is not only considered one of the liveliest cities in the country, it also has a lot to see and experience.

Among other things, you should not miss a leisurely stroll through the picturesque alleys of the historic old town with its numerous small cafés and cozy taverns. An extremely popular photo motif is the large lion fountain on the Platia Venizelou, the so-called Freedom Square, right in the center of the city. The town’s town hall is also housed in a magnificent building near the square. On weekdays, the building can also be visited from the inside – even without an official tour. It is particularly worthwhile to take a look at the large hall. In addition, Heraklion is one of the most historic cities in the Mediterranean region.

Venetian port and fortress of Koules

Venetian Port, Heraklion
The Venetian harbor in Heraklion, Image: kavalenkau / shutterstock

One of the most popular tourist destinations and at the same time the most famous landmark of the city is the old Venetian harbor. Today, this is used by many locals and tourists as a marina. At the entrance to the port is the imposing medieval fortress of Koules, which also attracts thousands of tourists from all over the world, especially in the summer months. The two-kilometre-long pier of the modern harbour begins at the Venetian harbour. This is also one of the most popular hiking tours on the island. The impressive fortress, which was built in the early 16th century, has been destroyed several times in the past century, but has also been rebuilt again and again.

After extensive restoration work in the recent past, it is still in good condition today. Inside the impressive complex, you not only get an exciting insight into the history of the fortress, but also into the eventful history of the city. From the fortress you can also enjoy a great view over the entire city and the sea. Another highlight on a trip to Heraklion is the huge Minoas Palace of Knossós. It is located six kilometers south of the city and is visited by more than 1,000,000 people from all over the world every year.

“Pure nature” in the city park

Minas Cathedral Heraklion
Minas Cathedral in Heraklion, Image: Agios Minas / shutterstock

If you want to relax in Heraklion and really enjoy the local nature, the city park in the immediate vicinity of Eleftherias Square is the right place for you. At the southern end of the park is the former Venetian city wall, which is worth seeing, about three kilometers long and still borders the park today. On the southern edge of the park, you can take a closer look at the historic fortification, which has seven bastions. For example, you can descend a steep staircase into the former moat of the city wall.

If you have time, it’s worth taking a walk along the city wall to soak up the special atmosphere of the park. In addition, concerts and festivals take place regularly in the “green oasis of the city”. In search of culture, visitors will find what they are looking for in the Thaila Aira Theatre or the Thaila Duran theatre theatre, among others. If you are travelling in the region at the beginning of August, you should not miss the traditional four-day cultural festival in the settlement of Houdetsi . In addition to lots of dance, music and art, there is also regional cuisine to experience. The festival, which is extremely popular with locals and tourists, is a good opportunity to get to know the regional culture – and with free admission. Heraklion has also been famous for the production of high-quality olive oil for decades. Wine is also considered an important cultural asset of the entire region. No wonder: after all, the city has been surrounded by numerous vineyards for years.

Museums give an insight into the culture of the Minoans

Old Port Heraklion
The old port of Heraklion, Image: kavalenkava / shutterstock

The National Archaeological Museum on the north side of Platia Eleftheria is also not to be missed when visiting Heraklion. Here is the largest collection in the world from the Minoan period, which is considered the birth of European culture. If you want to learn something about the exciting history and the unique culture of the city, the Historical Museum and the Natural History Museum are just as right as the small icon museum in the church of Agia Ekaterini. For many visitors, the holiday in Heraklion begins at the international airport. This is located about three kilometres east of the city centre and is regularly served by numerous small and large European airlines, especially in the summer months. In addition, many visitors also reach the city by ship at the port.

Webcams in Heraklion

Lofoupoli

Webcam Lofoupoli - Heraklion | SkylineWebcams

Overview of the hills of Agia Varvara

Webcam Agia Varvara | SkylineWebcams

View of the Gulf of Heraklion from the village of Rodia

Webcam Rodia | SkylineWebcams

Panoramic view of Tympaki

Webcam Tympaki | SkylineWebcams

Weather for Koutouloufari

Webcam Koutouloufari | SkylineWebcams

Panoramic view of Heraklion in Crete

Webcam Panorama of Heraklion | SkylineWebcams
View of the port fortress of Koules and the marina of Heraklion
Webcam Heraklion | SkylineWebcams
View of the Rocca Hill
Webcam Prophet Elias - Heraklion | SkylineWebcams
Beach of Ligaria
Webcam Heraklion - Ligaria Beach | SkylineWebcams

Seven Casino Tips That Will Make You a Pro in 2023

When playing and winning in online casinos, luck is the most important thing. Contrary to popular belief, no strategy can guarantee success. However, there are plenty of helpful recommendations that can make you a pro at any casino. Do these tips work well or are they useless? Professionals have strategies and approaches in the casino and you should at least know them if you want to gain an advantage over the casino.

However, there is no one plan or strategy that is used by all professionals and leads to success. Therefore, you should pay attention to a variety of tips and approaches when playing at a casino. We’ve rounded up the best casino tips that will help every player get the most out of their visit. If you follow our tips and tricks, you will be well on your way to becoming a casino professional. And you can assume that you will gain an advantage over the online casino. Some of the tips are very basic. But it is precisely here that the majority of players do a lot wrong. Therefore, you should not miss any of the tips the next time you are in a casino.

1. Register only with licensed casinos

In most cases, the best results are achieved by playing the right game on the right platform. Therefore, you should always make sure that you are playing at the right online casino.

You should only choose online casinos that are reputable and licensed. Fraudulent or unlicensed casinos do not guarantee the fairness or protection of the money deposited. There are licensing authorities that issue certificates and registration numbers for online casinos. Therefore, when deciding on a platform, you can always quickly make sure that you have a fully licensed platform in front of you.

Among online casinos, there are basically four different categories in terms of licensing. First of all, there are those online casinos that have a license in Germany . In this case, you don’t have to worry and can play with peace of mind. Online casinos with licenses in other EU countries are the next category, which you can also use without headaches. With online casinos with licenses only in non-EU countries, you have to take a closer look. Because in most cases you have a certain licensing and also fair conditions to play. But even with these platforms, problems can quickly arise. And then there are the online casinos without a license. You should keep your hands off these platforms and quickly look around for alternatives. The existing licenses can always be found at a good online casino on the main page of the respective website. Checking the casino license is the first step in ensuring security and fairness.

2. Collect the available bonuses

Bonuses offer great incentives for new and existing players. With bonuses, players can enjoy more games without risking more money. New players often don’t pay attention to these details and end up missing out on the opportunities they offer. Sometimes, these bonuses are offered in the promotions section of the site, while some casinos also send out special bonuses via email. By reading the terms and conditions of these bonuses, the player will get a clear idea of what to expect from the casino. And you should also pay attention to that. Because often bonuses are difficult to earn and then you can’t cash out the money because you don’t meet the conditions. For this reason, you should always read very carefully. However, if you have found a good bonus, then you should take advantage of it.

3. Don’t chase losses

When it comes to responsible gambling, financial literacy is the most important thing. Losing money is part of the game. Players also have to expect defeats in online casinos. So instead of continuing to play and trying to recoup the money you lost, it’s better to take some time off. Experienced players know that a losing streak is a sign that you should give up the game for today. Newbies are always trying to bet more to make up for the money they lose. Instead of making money, they end up losing even more money. It will always be a mistake to chase losses.

4. Learn from professionals

With the launch of each new online casino or game, pro players begin to produce informational content for their fellow players. They often show their gameplay on YouTube and other streaming services. Some players also share their live gameplay. New players not only enjoy the video content, but they can also learn from the pros. Therefore, it is a good idea to be inspired by other players. You should focus on learning certain strategies. At the same time, you can learn to avoid typical beginner’s mistakes in the casino.

5. Understand the statistics of the matches

Only basic rules and strategies are not enough for any player to be successful in the online casino in the long term. There are various other aspects of the game that also require attention. How many players are actively playing a particular game? What are the odds of winning and the RTP values? How many professional players are involved? There are many other technical aspects that players should consider before choosing to play online casino games. This also includes knowing and understanding the statistics of the respective game. Poker is the perfect example of how understanding statistics can make a difference.

6. Practice with demo or free games

Depositing real money right after registration is not the perfect approach for every player. Neither tutorials nor guides can provide a newbie with the knowledge that they can only gain through their own experience. But luckily, free games and demos are available at every online casino. They are the perfect starting point for newcomers. Without depositing real money, you can test the respective game in real time. Only when the experience and knowledge are sufficient to develop the right strategy should you start depositing your own money.

7. Set your budget

Just like in daily life, setting a budget in the casino is an important building block of success. For example, if you want to travel to the Virgin Islands , you have to plan for this in your budget. And if you want to play a certain number of games in the casino, then you also have to plan for this in your budget. By setting a budget, you get better control over the gameplay. Once the betting limit for the day is reached, it is necessary to close the casino website and stop doing so. New players show passion and start playing without setting a budget. The money is then quickly gone. And this can be prevented by preparing a budget.

 

By car through Switzerland – tips for holidaymakers and travellers

Switzerland beckons with beautiful alpine landscapes, delicious chocolate and world-famous luxury watches. However, if you have planned a holiday in the country of the Swiss Confederation, you should definitely familiarise yourself with the regulations on Swiss roads beforehand.

Motorway use in Switzerland is only possible with a vignette

Switzerland charges a toll for the use of its motorways, which is paid with the purchase of a vignette. In the past, adhesive labels were available without exception. Since 01.08.2023, however, digital e-vignettes have also been available. This simplifies planning enormously. Instead of stopping along the way to pay the toll and purchase the small sticker, holidaymakers can simply buy the e-vignette online. It is suitable for cars, motorhomes, campers and vans with a gross vehicle weight of up to 3.5 tonnes. For vehicles that are above this, a heavy vehicle charge must be paid. The vignette is valid for one year and can then be extended. Anyone who regularly travels to Switzerland or uses it as a transit country can opt for an automatic extension.

Speed limits in Switzerland may vary

Travellers travelling by car or light motorhome are allowed to drive a maximum of 50 km/h in built-up areas, just like in Germany . Outside built-up areas, a speed limit of 80 km/h applies. On expressways, 100 km/h are permitted. Unlike in Germany, there are no motorway sections in Switzerland without a speed limit. More than 120 km/h are not allowed. If necessary, the permitted speed may also be lower. Fines are to be expected for violations of the speed limit. These should be paid at all costs, otherwise criminal proceedings or a driving ban in Switzerland may result.

Observe special right of way regulations

The right of way regulations make a significant contribution to road safety. Therefore, holidaymakers should definitely find out about the situation in the destination country before travelling. Due to the high differences in altitude, there is a special regulation for mountain roads in Switzerland: the vehicle that goes up has the right of way. At the same time, however, particularly heavy vehicles have priority over lighter ones – regardless of whether they are driving uphill or downhill.

Always drive with lights on

In Switzerland, lights are compulsory for all motor vehicles, at all times of the day. Daytime running lights and dipped beams are permitted. This is to ensure better visibility. Violations will be punished with appropriate fines. Usually, only the front headlights come on with daytime running lights. The rear light remains dark. When driving through a tunnel or in bad weather conditions, the dipped headlights must therefore always be switched on.

Color-coded parking

Parking in Switzerland is organised according to so-called zones within built-up areas. In the blue zone, free parking is possible for one hour. However, a parking disc must be used. Parking spaces in the white zone are subject to a fee. The yellow parking area, on the other hand, is reserved for certain vehicles. The colour coding makes it easy to see which zone the car park belongs to. Stopping and parking bans are not marked with signs, but with lines at the edge of the road. A line interrupted by crosses indicates a parking ban. If the line has been drawn, there is a ban on stopping.

Pay attention to safe driving on the mountain

The beautiful panorama of Switzerland is particularly evident when driving over the passes. Here, however, not only the landscape should be admired, but also more attention should be paid to safety. This is especially true for holidays with heavy vehicles such as motorhomes. Careful and anticipatory driving at a reduced speed goes without saying. To prevent the brakes from overheating, it is also advisable to use the engine brake. If there is nevertheless an unpleasant smell that suggests that the brakes are no longer cooperating, it is essential to take a forced break.

 

 

Travel trends 2023: Off to adventure land – but safely!

This is what holidaymakers should know to protect themselves from hepatitis

Finally vacation. Get out of the daily grind and into adventure: More and more holidaymakers expect more than just plenty of sunshine and all-inclusive. A big travel trend in 2023 is individual travel. Holidaymakers are not only more spontaneous, but also attach greater and greater importance to new experiences. This makes it all the more important to be aware of any health risks and to protect yourself from a serious disease such as hepatitis A.

Individual and sustainable forms of vacation are becoming more and more relevant and are giving rise to a number of new travel trends: active vacationers are looking for new sporting challenges, food lovers are trying their way through regional specialties and culinary trends, explorers are raving about spontaneous road trips into the blue, couchsurfers are raving about their experiences with local hosts, and for backpackers, the journey is already the destination.

What adventurous holidaymakers are often not aware of is that all these trends carry risks – not least the risk of contracting so-called travel hepatitis, a highly contagious liver inflammation caused by the hepatitis A virus.

Holidaymakers should therefore seek advice on travel vaccinations from their family doctor eight to twelve weeks before travelling. A hepatitis A vaccination is well tolerated and can be carried out together with other vaccinations.[i]

Travel trends in a risk check

If you want to get off the beaten track and experience adventures, you can’t neglect preparation. This includes finding out about health risks in good time. Caution is therefore particularly advised with the currently popular travel challenges, in which you have to complete certain tasks while traveling (such as selfies in front of spectacular backdrops, a tour of the island on a rented scooter or a long-distance spitting competition with melon seeds). It is well known that sports injuries, accidents or stomach upsets can be an issue here. Less well known is the risk of becoming infected with hepatitis A.

In addition to most tropical regions, the Mediterranean region and the increasingly popular southeastern European destinations are among the areas with a high incidence of hepatitis A.[ii] Because most infections are caused by contaminated drinking water, bath water or contaminated food,1 individual forms of vacation and travel trends in particular harbor risks: For example, the spontaneous invitation to eat with the nice local landlords can become just as much a source of infection as the ice-cold drink in the old town disco, shopping at local markets, provisions from the fruit stand on the roadside or filling up the water bottle on the way. The risk of infection is particularly high in areas with low hygiene standards[iii] – a risk to keep in mind, especially on road trips and hikes through more remote, rural regions. Since it is correspondingly difficult to avoid all contact with the pathogen, the simplest and safest way of prevention is to be vaccinated against hepatitis A in good time.

Holidaymakers should seek advice from their doctor on travel vaccinations such as hepatitis A and B. Further information is also available at: www.bereit-zu-reisen.de.

[i] Internists on the net: “Hepatitis A: Treatment, prevention & vaccination.” Available at: https://bit.ly/3YjuEWe. March 2023.

[ii] RKI: “Ratgeber Hepatitis A”. Available at: https://bit.ly/2TAOCxC. March 2023.

[iii] Internists on the net: “Hepatitis A. What is that?” Available at: https://bit.ly/3Zi1HeO. March 2023.

 

Interview with tropical and travel physician Prof. Dr. Herbinger

Start of the travel season: Protection against hepatitis A also important in the Mediterranean region

Suitcases packed and off on adventure: In the coming summer, travel will be possible again without major restrictions for the first time after the COVID-19 pandemic years. The southeastern European Mediterranean region with countries such as Slovenia, Croatia and Albania is a popular travel destination this year. In an interview, tropical and travel physician Prof. Dr. Karl-Heinz Herbinger explains what should be paid attention to when travel activities are now increasing again and which health risks on the Mediterranean are often underestimated.

Professor Herbinger, what should travellers consider when making preparations?

It can be assumed that travel activities this summer will reach a similar level as in 2018/2019 – before the COVID-19 pandemic. In 2019, 1.42 billion international air trips took place. With increased travel activity this summer, an increase in travel illnesses can be expected. I therefore recommend that holidaymakers seek advice from their family doctor about possible travel vaccinations at an early stage – and not only if a long-distance trip is planned. Health risks, especially from hepatitis A, are also often underestimated when travelling within Europe, especially in the south-eastern European Mediterranean region.

What health risks can be expected in the Mediterranean region and Southeastern Europe?

The Mediterranean region is one of the hepatitis A risk areas. Hepatitis is an inflammation of the liver. Hepatitis is often caused by viruses. Such contagious liver inflammation is one of the most common travel diseases, especially hepatitis A. It can be transmitted via foods such as raw fish, seafood, fruit and vegetables, as well as through contaminated drinking water and bathing water. The symptoms of an illness are often non-specific: loss of appetite, nausea and vomiting can occur. Yellowing of the skin is typical.

What precautions can travelers take to protect themselves in the best possible way?

Since it is difficult to avoid contact with the hepatitis A virus, the simplest and safest way of prevention is to be vaccinated in good time. The vaccination is well tolerated and can be carried out together with other vaccinations that make sense for travel medicine. A possible vaccination against hepatitis B should also be discussed with your family doctor.