All about travel

Morocco – the magic of the historic imperial cities

Morocco

PatrickJullien

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23. June 2022

Morocco – the magic of the historic imperial cities

The sky shines like a mystical lapis lazuli, and the snow-capped peaks of the High Atlas shimmer on the distant horizon. Holidaymakers in Morocco rave about the magic of this North African light and the sensuality of the Orient. In the bazaars of the Berber cities it smells of cinnamon and saffron and between the old walls acrobats, snake charmers, shoe shiners and the sellers of melons find their stages and their audience.

This country, south of the Strait of Gibraltar , professes moderate Islam and a constitutional monarchy with a king from the Alawite dynasty. It is a country bordered by the infinity of the Sahara but also by the Mediterranean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean. Since Morocco has a long history of tourism, it is recommended as an exceptional destination.

View of the capital Rabat, Image: saiko3p / shutterstock

In front of the medina, the carriages, the traditional means of transport of Morocco’s historic cities, are waiting. Behind panting horses, you carefully walk through the labyrinth of this oriental picture-book splendour. Morocco serves its guests the fascination of the imperial cities on a silver platter, so to speak, and if you don’t get lost in the maze of alleys of the souks, you will enjoy this atmosphere with all your senses.

Marrakech, Fez, Meknes, Casablanca and Rabat are the cornerstones of Moroccan history, stone witnesses of a great past and at the same time pearls of the present.

All of them were capitals of the North African country in different periods of history, and their respective rulers were apparently overwhelmed by the ambition to leave behind something significant for posterity. Anyone who strolls through these cities, which are so different in their building fabric, today embarks on a journey through time and space and walks in the footsteps that UNESCO has declared a World Heritage Site.

Fez sees itself immodestly as the memory of the Moroccan nation, because the metropolis has a wealth of art treasures like hardly any other oriental city. Since the late 8th century AD, there have been no wars here. Fez is the work of Prince Idriss I, who, according to Islam, was a descendant of the Prophet Muhammad. The Karawijin Mosque can accommodate 20,000 worshippers for their prayers. Affiliated with it is the oldest university in the Muslim world.

Morocco, Shop — A colorful store in Morocco, Image: Peter Wollinga / shutterstock

The Qur’anic writings are also studied in the Koranic schools of Marrakech. This is a mysterious royal city on the edge of the desert and with the Square of the Jugglers as the lively center. When the heat of the day evaporates and the coolness of the evening also beguiles the senses of the holidaymakers, the scent of the numerous food stalls hangs over the city.

Meknès impresses with a forty-kilometre-long and almost intact city wall, the shady parks and the government palace. Rabat is the traditional “white royal city” and has been the residence of the Alawite dynasty for more than a hundred years. No metropolis in the north of the Black Continent has given itself such a modern coat of paint as Rabat with its covered souk Es Sebat.

If you decide to go on a tour to the nearby Sahara, you will soon notice that the heat sometimes leads to fallacies and that the horizon disappears into the pale nowhere. But the desert also has many faces in Morocco. There are the karstic mountain ranges with their serpentine roads that end at the top of the passes. But there are also the many oases with their proud date palms and sleepy-looking small villages.

Zagora was once a caravan station – the starting point for journeys through the infinity of the African north. Somewhere the holidaymaker finds the much-photographed sign “52 days to Timbuktu”. This signpost is probably also understood as a threat in the land of the Berbers and nomads. Anyone who not only feels the hot breath of the Sahara as a holidaymaker, but is lucky enough to witness the mystical atmosphere of the traditional “Guedra” in the light of a fire, will never forget this “dance of the desert”.

Travel information Morocco

Capital	Rabat
Form of government	Hereditary Monarchy constitutional monarchy
Currency	Dirham (MAD)
Area	approx. 446,550 km² including Western Sahara: 710,850 km²
Population	approx. 35,740,000 (2017)
Languages	Arabic and Mazir (Berber)
Electricity grid	127/220 volts, 50 Hz
Area code	+212
Time zone	UTC±0 UTC+1 (March to October)

Mexico – in the footsteps of faded cultures

Mexico

PatrickJullien

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23. June 2022

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Mexico – in the footsteps of faded cultures

If the mountains of Mexico could talk, they would have a lot to tell. They would report on the important Indian civilizations of a bygone era, on the colonial era of the country, on volcanic eruptions and earthquakes and, last but not least, on a revolution that led to a bloody civil war. This is all a past in this treasure trove of faded cultures and in a country that is still the “garden of the gods” for many Mexicans. “Viva Mexico” – this region of Central America tells the story of love and sorrow, of rise and decline. It is a land full of scenic wonders and it is blessed with the testimonies of the Maya and their secrets that hardly anyone has completely deciphered so far.

Mexico, El Ángel de la Independencia — The El Ángel de la Independencia in Mexico City, Image: Vincent St. Thomas / shutterstock

Scientists and historians have learned a lot over the centuries from the time when Aztecs and Maya populated this area. For both cultures, the rivers were of magical power and every volcano was a sacred place. Only stones remain from the heyday of the Indian peoples of today’s Mexico , but the winding palaces and gigantic pyramids still pose puzzles, because many puzzle pieces have not yet been used to create an overall construct. However, it is known that the Maya of Palenque were not only gifted picture houses, but that they wanted to appease the gods of the underworld with blood sacrifices. This magical place in the sprawling jungle with its bright red houses was a highlight of Mayan culture, where the scholars of their time observed the celestial bodies and developed one of the earliest calendars in human history.

Mexico, Baja — The Baja in Mexico, Image: Grey82 / shutterstock

However, the Maya were probably not a peaceful people of hunter-gatherers, and the decline of their culture could also have been linked to armed conflicts. Twice a year, thousands gather on the Yucatán Peninsula in the ruined city of Chichén to observe the equinox and the course of the sun. Shortly before dusk, the sun paints a ribbon on the steps of the Castillo, then unites with a snake’s head made of stone. This is an astronomical phenomenon and a spectacle for many holidaymakers.

But the mysterious sanctuaries of the Maya alone do not make a trip to Mexico an unusual holiday experience. On a round trip, there are the picturesque village churches, the evergreen rainforest, idyllic bays and hissing volcanoes. This is a land full of grace and beauty, rich in temples and dream beaches. Cancún is no longer a blank spot on the map of international tourism. At Playa del Carmen, all holidaymakers who hope for water sports activities in addition to sun and sand feel at home. The beaches convey a Caribbean flair and the glass-bottom boat takes you out to a dazzling underwater world.

Mexico is also an Eldorado for divers, because the waters on the doorstep are very clear almost everywhere and the galleries of the coral gardens are teeming with colorful schools of fish and turtles. Near Isla Mujeres is the “Cave of the Sleeping Sharks”, where not only reef sharks, nurse sharks and tiger sharks but even the bullsharks can be found. Romano Bravo, one of the most famous oceanographers, was laid to rest there. His urn was brought to the cave in 1988 by the then Mexican President Ernesto Zedillo himself, and a mortality table reads: “Sleep forever at the side of your sharks…”
Less exciting is the island of Cozumel, which is recommended for those who are looking for peace and relaxation. If you want to dive there in the National Marine Park, you can take boats out to the Santa Rosa and Palancar areas. A stay in the metropolis of Mexico City is vital and exciting. It’s a million-dollar juggernaut, but if you take your time, you’ll enjoy the colorful markets, the secluded parks and, above all, the canals of Xochimilco. In Mexico City, the gate to an unusual journey opens.

Travel information Mexico

Capital	Mexico City
Form of government	Federal republic Presidential democracy
Currency	Mexican peso (MXN)
Area	approx. 1,972,550 km²
Population	approx. 124,574,795 (2017 est.)
Languages	Spanish
Electricity grid	110-135 volts, 60 Hz
Area code	+52
Time zone	UTC−6 to UTC−8 UTC−5 to UTC−7 (with daylight saving time)

Monaco – small and fine and not always expensive

Monaco

PatrickJullien

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23. June 2022

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Monaco – small and fine and not always expensive

Of course, it doesn’t always have to be Kavier, but in Monaco’s best company, the expensive is part of the good manners. However, if you go to Monte Carlo as a vacationer, you will by no means fall out of character there when you feast on a fish sandwich on a bench in the picturesque Japanese Garden. This principality is far less snobbish than most people think. For some, the city-state on the Mediterranean Sea is more like an operetta, others see Monaco as an illustrious refuge of good humour and sometimes also good taste. However, here and there the old splendor has faded and is probably getting on in years. But what remains is an affordable luxury from a world between appearance and reality.

Monaco, Formula 1 Grand Prix — The annual highlight of the Formula 1 season: The Monaco Grand Prix, Image: cristiano barni / shutterstock

Monaco has always afforded itself the form of government of a constitutional monarchy. In all important decisions of the miniature state, the prince himself decides. The coastline measures just 4,100 meters and the entire territory is only two square kilometers in size. If you stroll through the English Garden on the Isar in Munich , you will be on the road longer than in Monte Carlo. The small principality is rich, beautiful and sought-after. After all, 41,000 jobs await the approximately 32,000 inhabitants – that is a lonely world record.

The narrow parking space on Avenue Princesse Grace could have sprung from the flashing Who’s Who of the automotive industry, because hardly a mid-range car gets lost here between the Porsches, Lamborghinis and Ferraris. If you take a seat in one of the bars at the marina, you can order a dish of the day for just under ten euros, but when you look at the styled boats, it can also be an expensive lobster. The rental fees in the marina amount to a proud 200,000 euros per year and ship.

Monaco at night, Image: tichr / shutterstock

Monaco would like to expand by landfilling, but the sea on its doorstep is up to seventy meters deep, which would cause costs that would be disproportionate to the yield even in the principality. So they stay small and a pinch immodest…

Prince Albert’s income is estimated at a good hundred million euros. But exact figures are state secrets. After all, he also holds the majority of shares in the casino company “Société des Bains de Mer” and various luxury hotels. If you are a holidaymaker inspecting Monte Carlo, you should start your day with a cup of coffee on the terrace of the legendary Café de Paris . Caruso already treated himself to a petit noir here and Frank Sinatra had a regular place there.

This is the aura of high society, the playground of the paparazzi, a sophisticated dwarf state. But also a particularly beautiful and contrasting refuge on the Mediterranean. Those who do their business there often travel from neighboring France every day, because even Nice is not very far. Those who can afford it, however, float in by helicopter – to the airport in Fontvieille. It is said of Monte Carlo that everyone knows everyone in this illustrious spot. Most of them also know the prince, because the city is actually a village.

Many tourists are drawn to the photogenic market stalls on the Place d’Armes and in the evening to the Texan restaurant, where Prince Albert’s sister Stephanie can also be seen. Even if you don’t stay there, holidaymakers should stop by the Hotel Hermitage and admire the lobby under the glass dome. And if you try your luck in the casino in the hall of the rattling machines or even at the roulette tables, you first have to pat the knee of the bronze horse with the Sun King Ludwig at the entrance. Then, they say, luck would be on your side in the casino.

Monaco is an illustrious stage of vanities – but also one of the sunniest places in the south of the continent. A small realm of elegance and extravagance.

Travel information Monaco

Capital	Monaco
Form of government	Hereditary Monarchy constitutional monarchy
Currency	Euro (EUR)
Area	approx. 2.02 km²
Population	approx. 38,400 (2015)
Languages	French
Electricity grid	127/220 volts, 50 Hz
Area code	+377
Time zone	UTC+1 CET UTC+2 CEST (March to October)

Namibia – the home of the San and many wild animals

Namibia

PatrickJullien

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23. June 2022

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Namibia – the home of the San and many wild animals

There is no question that Namibia is a particularly strong part of the African south. With the endless expanses of the oldest desert in the world, with mountains of sand stretching up to a height of three hundred meters in the monster dunes of Sossusvlei, with the life-threatening region of the Skeleton Coast, with picturesque towns, the game-rich Etosha Pan and with many small and large wonders along the way. Namibia is in vogue because word has spread in international tourism that the former German colony is a largely safe travel destination, as long as you adapt to the conditions of the gravel roads. They require time, because the tires of the off-road vehicles are badly strained there and you should exercise caution in the curves on this unsafe terrain. But if you take this to heart, you will embark on an eventful journey through a land of light, emptiness and colours.

Namibia, Windboek, Christ Church — The Christ Church in Windboek, Image: Vadim Nefedoff/shutterstock

When the sun has sent its last rays over the fascinating Namib, those stories are told under the camel thorn trees that are passed on from generation to generation among the Bushmen. They are the stories of sun and sand, of thirst in waterless times and of hunting antelopes. There are still one hundred thousand indigenous people of the San people in Namibia and in neighboring Botswana. They are semi-nomads who have always built their houses out of branches and grass and can easily leave them if there are reasons for a change of location. They are collectors and hunters and they entrusted their dreams to the rocks of Namibia centuries ago, mostly in the form of animals. Just like in Twyfelfontein in southern Damaraland.

The self-esteem of the San has received a considerable boost in some regions of Namibia since they were encouraged to convey their rituals and lifestyle habits to holidaymakers in so-called “living museums”. The Living Culture Foundation Namibia was created thanks to a German initiative and enables the San villages to make an acceptable living. In the evening, they return to their homes, and when a warm wind blows through the trees, they are convinced that, true to ancient traditions, the sky has “slaughtered” the sun.

The Skeleton Coast in Namibia, Image: Radek Borovka / shutterstock

Sand and silence – these are the characteristics of the Namibian deserts. The red-yellow Kalahari and the Namib, which gave the country its name. Namibia is actually only green in the Zambezi region in the north, where the dangerous hippos populate the rivers and ponds. To the south, the elements have created the Fish River Canyon, the second largest in the world. The Skeleton Coast, so called because a number of stranded seafarers lost their lives there, is wildly romantic. The highlight of the varied Namib-Naukluft National Park are the dunes of Sossusvlei. In no other region of the world do they pile up in such dimensions. If you are good on foot there, you should go to Deadvlei, where gnarled tree remains bear witness to the fact that the river Tsauchab once silted up here.

There are only three cities in Namibia that deserve the name: the metropolis of Windhoek, Lüderitz and Swakopmund. And almost everywhere you can find traces of the German colonial era more than a hundred years ago. Walfis Bay on the rough and cold Atlantic coast has the only seaport in Namibia. South West Africa was once a gold and diamond mine, but when the treasures were unearthed, most Europeans left the country. Where the soldiers of fortune lived back then, today a hot wind blows through houses without window panes in Kolmanskop.

Namibia was the first country in the world to commit to nature conservation and enshrined this in its constitution, which contributed to the fact that many elephants, rhinos, lions and leopards can still be found in Etosha National Park today. The region around the dry and salt-solidified inland lake is one of the most interesting game reserves in Africa. Etosha and the neighbouring Waterberg are treasures of nature and proof of the thesis that the preservation of wilderness and tourism do not have to be mutually exclusive.

Travel information Namibia

Capital	Windhoek
Form of government	Republic Semi-presidential democracy
Currency	Namibian Dollar (NAD)
Area	approx. 824,116 km²
Population	approx. 2,324,400 (2016)
Languages	English (German also very common)
Electricity grid	220 volts, 50 Hz
Area code	Phone +264
Time zone	UTC+2

With the motorhome on a long tour: eight tips for your first road trip

All about travel

PatrickJullien

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23. June 2022

0

With the motorhome on a long tour: eight tips for your first road trip

Are you planning a nice holiday with a motorhome? Have you already bought or rented a motorhome, planned your route, filled your fresh water tank and loaded your car? Especially when you are planning your first road trip, there are a few things to consider. What should you do to ensure that your first camper trip does not turn into a disappointment and brings many positive experiences. In our article, we give you eight motorhome tips for beginners on their first road trip.

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Plan your route correctly

Especially if you are planning your first trip with the motorhome, it is important to understand that it cannot go as planned. Don’t travel alone, remember that you will regularly take turns with another driver during the journey. It is also best not to plan too long daily stages and avoid night driving.

Think in advance about the suitable campsites and emptying of the holding tanks in case you drive with a toilet in the motorhome. Yes, all the details are important. In addition, not all campsites are equally equipped: some only offer sanitary facilities, while others are close to shops, pharmacies, hotels and restaurants. There are even campsites that are not far from concert halls and casinos. You may want to go to a casino during your trip instead of Slot Games virtually? When choosing a campsite, individual ideas and needs play a major role. It is also best to book campsites in advance.

An all-round check is always worthwhile

Check your motorhome before your trip: the most important things are the tyres and air pressure, the condition of the on-board battery, the water tank and the level of the gas bottles. Is the power cable disconnected and are all storage compartment flaps closed?

Drive right

Proper driving is not only safe, but also saves fuel costs. The longer you drive in a high gear, the lower the fuel consumption of your motorhome. Ride uphill and downhill like this so that you can get the most out of the momentum. And drive as evenly as possible. In addition, don’t forget that all passengers in the motorhome must always wear a seatbelt. This even applies to children and dogs. It is forbidden to lie down in the camper bed during the journey.

Pack everything correctly

Motorhome rolls, so everything has to be well stowed in the motorhome. Buy different storage systems so that they don’t fall off the shelves while driving. Objects that can fly around while driving, not only distract the driver, but also become really dangerous. Load your vehicle in this way so as not to interfere with the centre of gravity of the motorhome. Light objects are allowed in the top of the cabinets and heavy objects should ideally be at the bottom near the axle.

Never blindly trust navigation systems

This mistake is often made by camping beginners. Of course, you should use electronic navigation systems when planning your route, but it is worth always having an “analogue” simple map at hand. They should be able to follow a route parallel to the navigation system on a map and, ideally, have a certain idea of a route before the trip.

Don’t get unsociable at the campsites

Utensils Camping — When camping, you need important utensils, Image: Iam_Anupong / shutterstock

Especially those who already have experience with motorhome travel know it: you can often make nice acquaintances and meet new interesting people at campsites and pitches. Especially if you don’t think about wild camping (besides, it is generally forbidden in Germany except for one night) and want to stop at campsites, it is an important tip. Perhaps you will meet like-minded people at the campsite with whom you will take your second camper trip.

If possible, switch to the low season

If it’s not so principled for you, a road trip in the off-season can usually be pretty cheap. In addition, the campsites are not fully booked in the low season.

Observe traffic regulations and regulations of the country

This point is especially important if you are planning your trip outside of Germany. Regardless of your destination, however, your driver’s license must be valid and valid in the country where you are traveling. Find out in advance and check whether your motorhome with the certain total weight corresponds to your driver’s license.

And what else do you absolutely have to have for the trip besides a driver’s license? An inspiration! If you enjoy your road trip and are ready to experience foreign countries and cultures or places in Germany anew, your first camper trip should be beautiful and unforgettable.

The resort of Saranda in Albania

Albania

PatrickJullien

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22. June 2022

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Saranda, located on the Albanian Riviera in the south of the country, is one of Albania’s most popular tourist destinations. With its pristine Mediterranean beaches and charming old town, Saranda has something for everyone. Whether you’re looking to relax on the beach or experience a new culture, Saranda is definitely worth adding to your travel list.

The city is a popular tourist destination due to its mild climate, beautiful beaches, and clear waters. Saranda is also home to many historical sites, such as the ancient city of Butrint. Visitors to Saranda can enjoy a variety of activities, such as swimming, sunbathing, hiking, and exploring the town’s historic sites.

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What makes the resort of Saranda so special?

Saranda is known for its clear, turquoise waters, sandy beaches, and lush vegetation. The town is located on a horseshoe-shaped bay and is a popular place for swimming, sunbathing and hiking due to its sheltered location. There are also a number of historical sites to explore in Saranda, including the ruins of the ancient city of Butrint. Visitors can take a boat trip to the nearby Greek island of Corfu , or enjoy the town’s nightlife with its many bars and clubs. Whether you’re looking for relaxation or adventure, Saranda has something for everyone.

Sandara’s ancient ruins and the world-renowned Butrint National Park

Butrint National Park in Albania — Butrint National Park, Image: Aleksandar Todorovic / shutterstock

Butrint National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is located in the city of Saranda in Albania. The park is home to a variety of ancient ruins, including a Greek theater, a Roman bath, and a Byzantine church. Visitors can also see the remains of a city wall dating back to the 4th century BC. The Butrint National Park is a popular destination for history and archaeology enthusiasts. The park offers guided tours of the ruins as well as boat tours in the area. Visitors can also picnic in the park or swim in the nearby lake.

Saranda’s Mosques and Churches from the Ottoman Empire

There are countless beautiful mosques and churches in Saranda. These historic buildings date back to the time of the Ottoman Empire, when the city was an important center for trade and commerce. Today, Saranda is a popular tourist destination, and its mosques and churches are among the most popular attractions. Visitors can explore the grandiose architecture of the mosques or visit the churches to learn about the history of Christianity in Albania . Whether you’re interested in history or religion, Saranda’s mosques and churches are sure to impress.

Visitors can enjoy numerous activities in Saranda, such as swimming, sunbathing, hiking, and sightseeing

Saranda is a beautiful place to visit for your next vacation. The area offers many activities that visitors can enjoy, such as swimming, sunbathing, hiking, and sightseeing. Saranda is also home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. With its clear turquoise waters and soft white sand, Saranda beach is the perfect place to relax and soak up the sun. A must for every visitor is a boat trip to the Blue Cave. The cave gets its name from the turquoise blue water it is filled with and the sun shining through the opening in the cave, creating a stunning effect. Apart from its natural beauty, Saranda is also rich in history and culture. The city was founded by Greeks in the 4th century BC and later became an important trading port for the Romans. Today, visitors can tour the city’s ancient ruins, as well as the many museums and galleries that showcase the city’s fascinating history.

What tips should you keep in mind?

View of Pulebardha beach between Ksamil and Saranda in Albania, Image: lukaszimilena / shutterstock

Before you visit Saranda, there are a few things you should keep in mind. First, Saranda is a city that is very hilly. This means that you should wear comfortable shoes, as you will be walking a lot. Secondly, the city can get quite hot in the summer months, so be sure to pack sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water!

Booking a hotel in advance is always a good idea, but it’s especially important if you’re traveling to popular destinations like Saranda. Saranda is a beautiful city that has a lot to offer its visitors, so it’s no wonder it’s become such a popular destination in recent years. If you’re planning a trip to Saranda, make sure to book your hotel room well in advance so you won’t be disappointed. And finally, be sure to take cash with you, as many restaurants and shops don’t accept credit cards

If you follow these tips, your trip to Saranda is sure to be enjoyable and memorable.

Result

Saranda is a beautiful city in Albania that offers its visitors a plethora of activities and attractions to enjoy. The city is rich in history and culture, and its natural beauty is simply breathtaking. Whether you want to swim, sunbathe, hike or sightsee, Saranda has something for everyone

A visit to Broadway – you have to experience these musicals

All about travel

PatrickJullien

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20. June 2022

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A visit to Broadway – you have to experience these musicals

Broadway is the birthplace of the modern musical, and even though this art form can now be found all over the world, nowhere is it as authentic as in New York. The variety is great and there are also some musicals in 2022 that you should definitely experience if you can decide to travel to New York. Hundreds of performances take place here year after year, and the greatest Hollywood actors come from the theater’s largest Mecca.

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The all-time classic: The Lion King

The Lion King is one of the classics that takes place on Broadway and is definitely worth seeing. The little lion Simba, who conquers his kingdom and has to face all the adversities of the animal world, is a touching story for young and old. Elton John’s music has won a total of six Tony Awards and also received an Evening Standard Award.

The fairy tale from 1001 Nights: Aladdin

The love story of Aladdin and Jasmine captivates every fan of the Orient. Brilliantly staged, the actors succeed in fascinating the audience. At the New Amsterdam Theatre, the halls are filled to the last seat and many of the audience are not in the musical for the first time. The young crook Aladdin finds a magic lamp that can grant him three wishes. This changes his whole life.

From the heart of the country: Chicago on Broadway

It is a journey into the past, to the 20s, in combination with breathtaking jazz music and a lot of crime. Chicago is one of the most successful musicals on Broadway, has been honored with 6 Tony Awards and also received a Grammy for recording the songs. Brilliant spectacles on stage, thundering jazz sounds and a breathtaking show await visitors.

It lives in each of us: The Phantom of the Opera

The world premiere of The Phantom of the Opera took place in 1986 and since then the seasons have almost always been completely sold out. The musical, directed by Andrew Lloyd Webber, tells the cruel love story of the Phantom, who lives in the basement of the Paris Opera. When he falls in love with the young dancer Christine, he begins to shape her and crosses every boundary in the process. When he realizes that she cannot return his love, the tide turns and Christine finds herself in serious danger.

A touch of eroticism: Moulin Rouge

Broadway in New York — Image: Allen.G / shutterstock

The award-winning 2001 movie Moulin Rouge is already impressive, but a visit to the musical will put everything in the shade. Emotions, lights, colours – it’s a journey back in time to Paris in 1900, a world that immediately captivates the viewer. In addition, it is the impressive songs like Lady Marmelade that remain in the ears of the visitors, even when the show is long over. Children from the age of 12 are allowed to attend the musical , but it is especially suitable for adults.

A Visit to the King: The Life Story of Michael Jackson

His music is world-famous and tickets for the musical, which revolves around the life of the King of Pop, are correspondingly sought-after. The Neil Simon Theatre is filled to capacity when the spectacular show kicks off in the evening. Director Christopher Wheeldon has not only hit the nerve of the fans with Jackson’s music pieces that get under your skin. There are 30 songs to listen to, a magical journey through the world of the King ensues.

This goes to the soul: Hamilton

Hamilton’s story touches the heart. Alexander, the orphan from the Caribbean, suffers through a lot of events before he becomes one of the key figures in the American Revolutionary War. Knowledge of English is important, because here a story is written with clever puns and impressive songs that is second to none. A musical for connoisseurs who want to be fascinated.

It’s going to be magical: Harry Potter and the cursed child

Harry Potter has finally found its way from Hogwarts to New York and can now also be admired on the big stage. The London production has already convinced all critics at its premiere. The impressive musical has been performed at the Lyric Theatre since 2018 and is already one of the most popular ensembles on Broadway. It is a completely independent story, written by J.K. Rowling, the author of the popular book series.

Now it’s time to go: Wicked

Wicked is the notorious prequel of the Wizard of Oz that gets under your skin. The theme of friendship plays the main role, two witch students become friends with each other, although they couldn’t be more different. But what has happened that the two tightly knit girls suddenly become bitter enemies? An enmity in which one becomes the good witch and the other the bad witch of the West.

Unknown and Good for a Laugh: The Book of Mormon

The Book of Mormon is hardly known to travelers, and yet it is one of the most popular and, above all, most harmonious musicals on Broadway. Written by the creators of the comic series Southpark, it premiered in 2011. The script is provocative, the language vulgar, but those who can deal with the crude humor will not be able to stop laughing.

Holidays in Poros: Rediscover Greece

Greece

PatrickJullien

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20. June 2022

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Greece is considered one of the most popular tourist destinations in the Mediterranean. But very few people know the Greek volcanic island of Poros. Located in the Saronic Gulf, the 23 square kilometre island with its 4000 inhabitants is a real insider tip. Here, densely overgrown hills with pine and pine trees rise out of the deep blue water. Just a few kilometers from Athens , Poros is particularly suitable for day trips or short trips from the Greek capital. The hilly island consists of two parts. While most of the cultural and culinary events in Poros Town take place on the Sferia island, the Kalavria island offers unspoiled Mediterranean nature with pine forests and tall pines as far as the eye can see.

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Explore Poros Town

Poros Town in particular offers visitors a lot to discover without having to push through the picturesque Greek towns in masses, as you know it from Heraklion or Rhodes Town. Located on the slope towards the water, you can immerse yourself in the atmosphere of the small Greek town in peace and quiet between colourful neoclassical buildings and traditional fishermen’s cottages. A tower clock built in 1927 watches over the town, which is worth visiting especially in the evening hours when the sun sets over Poros. In addition, a visit to the Greek island should not be complete without a walk along the coastal promenade. Quaint taverns, pretty cafés and small shops are lined up here. The masts of the sailboats are reflected on the water of the harbour during the day and the colourful lights of the numerous bars and clubs in the evening. Those interested in history can learn more about excavations on the island and in its surrounding region at the city’s archaeological museum.

Nature experiences on Poros

In addition to Poros Town, the little-known Greek island offers an unspoiled scenery of pine and pine forests as well as a crystal-clear Mediterranean Sea. Since the island is very green and wooded, you can at least take short hikes in the shade of the trees even in warm temperatures typical for Greece . If you are looking for relaxation on the beach and in the water, Poros will not disappoint either. Especially on the south coast of the Kalavria part of the island, there are a large number of stony and fine sandy beaches. Due to the sheltered location and the proximity to the Peloponnese peninsula opposite, which is part of the Greek mainland, the sea here is mostly calm and you can relax in the water. Those looking for more thrills can try paragliding, stand up paddle boarding, kayaking or windsurfing on Poros water. In addition, the fish-rich sea invites you to snorkel expeditions.

Sights in Poros

But Poros does not only offer a cozy city experience as well as distinctive excursions into nature. The Greek island does not have to hide its diverse sights.

The Temple of Poseidon

A visit to Poros should not be complete without a detour to the Temple of Poseidon. In the interior of the island, framed by pine trees, stands the Doric Temple of Poseidon, which dates back to the 6th century BC. In the past, the inhabitants of Poros revered the Greek god of the sea and dedicated this impressive building to him. Here you can also walk in the footsteps of the ancient orator Demosthenes, who fled from the mainland to the island and committed suicide here to escape arrest.

The Monastery of Zoodochos Pigis

Chapel on Poros, Image: Ionov Vitaly / shutterstock

In the middle of the green overgrown slopes stands the monastery of Zoodochos Pigis, built in the 18th century. It is a prime example of the construction of monasteries common on Greek islands , but not only fascinates architecture enthusiasts. The name of the monastery comes from a spring located there, which is said to have healing powers.

The Russian naval base

Yes, that’s right. On the manageable and quiet island of Poros there used to be a Russian naval base. Built in 1834, the base was abandoned by the Russians in 1917. Today it is a listed building and its remains can be explored by visitors.

Die Villa Galini

The Greek Nobel Prize winner Giorgos Seferis, the Swedish actress Greta Garbo and the American writer and painter Henry Miller were able to call these magnificent villas on Poros their home. Although visitors are not allowed to visit the villa from the inside, it is still worth taking a short detour there when exploring the island.

The Lemon Tree Forest

If you visit Poros, you should definitely plan some time for the lemon tree forest. The large untouched area is densely overgrown with wonderfully fragrant orange and lemon trees. There are also some watermills along the numerous watercourses that flow through the area. Many of them originate from a picturesque waterfall on the highest point of the hill, which can be reached via a walking path.

Infrastructure on Poros

Since the island is one of the insider tips for relaxing holidays in Greece, no hotel chains have settled here so far. Nevertheless, the offer does not have to hide: The island offers something for everyone, from spa hotels to family guesthouses to medium-priced hotels. And as you are used to from Greece: Everywhere cheap taverns invite you to dine and linger. What you should keep in mind, however, is that almost all parts of the island can only be reached by car, and there is no well-developed network of public transport.
Accessibility of the Greek island

Poros can only be reached by water. From Athens via Peloponnese, the journey takes about three hours. From Galatas, the last few meters have to be covered by ferry or water taxi. It is much faster to take a fast ferry from Piraeus. This route only takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes.

Ischia, the gifted island in the Gulf of Naples

Europe
Italy

PatrickJullien

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20. June 2022

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Ischia, the gifted island in the Gulf of Naples

Anyone who walks across this island immediately understands why it has developed into a place of longing for people from all over the world, for spa holidaymakers and artists, for connoisseurs and northern Europeans. The Italian island of Ischia has always been showered with gifts. The formerly active volcanoes donated thermal springs in abundance.

Nature gifted the island with lush greenery, with paradisiacal white sandy beaches, cliffs and grottos. Princes and kings brought castles and palaces. The flora participated with dense forests, with bougainvillea violet and orange-red, with lush vegetation and was shaped into a work of art by the botanists with magnificent gardens. Wealthy northern Europeans built magnificent villas. The ancient Greeks brought viticulture and olives to the island.

The local politicians made sure that all Boom always fit into the local conditions and customs. The sea washes the coasts with the cleanest waters in 1000 shades of blue and turquoise. Ischia was created on a Sunday.

Inhalt

Ischia – Gifts of the Sea

Castello Aragonese, Ischia — Castello Aragonese, Image: IgorZh / shutterstock

Anyone who arrives in the small port of Ischia by ferry from Naples will be greeted by an enchanting scenery. Countless boats rock at their piers, locals and tourists meet on the shore in front of the picturesque houses. Bars and restaurants offer an Italian attitude to life and delicious seafood. Perched on a hill above the harbour is the Palazzo Reale, the former summer residence of the Bourbons with a magnificent view. One of the best beaches on the island, the Citara beach, with white sand and blue sea, in a bay near Forio, allows you to enjoy the sun and swim.

History and art

Off the east coast lies a rock in the water, which was first built on with a fort 2500 years ago. Since the Renaissance, the island has been connected to Ischia by a bridge. Through history, the fortress has been expanded to protect against raids, pirates and vandals as a safe haven for the inhabitants of Ischia. The Aragonese expanded the complex, the English destroyed it in the Napoleonic War.

After that, the rock was converted into a prison by the Sicilian king. Today, art exhibitions and festivals take place on the still imposing fortress grounds.

On the way to the fortress, the beautiful baroque cathedral of the island stands in the picturesque Italian Via Luigi Mazzella. Numerous other churches and chapels can be found in the streets of the island towns. Above Casamicciola Terme with its listed alley district Perrone towers a villa settlement with a magnificent view over the sea.

Henrik Ibsen wrote parts of his Peer Gynt in the Villa Pisani, the freedom hero Giuseppe Garibaldi lived in the Villa Parodi-Delfino.

The Museo di Santa Restituta presents the life and culture of the Ischitans from the Greek period to the Christian era in an excavation site.

The country and the cuisine

Ischia is a foodie’s paradise, especially for lovers of seasonal Italian cuisine. Even in the markets, the sight of artichokes, aubergines, chard, porcini mushrooms, olive oil and pasta makes your mouth water. All the better if this time it is topped with seafood. In the huge restaurant Calise in Via A. Sogliuzzo, tourists and locals meet for gourmet meals at any time of the day.

In Casamicciola, an Italian couple serves regional home food at its best in green surroundings at Il Focolare. The guest is spoiled with epicurean sensations of the season. Viticulture has shone on Ischia for centuries, as the small wine museum of the D’Ambra winery near Panza shows. In Via Mazella, on the way to the fortress, there are numerous shops where you can buy the riches of Ischia’s handicrafts, such as beautiful ceramics at Filippo Cianciarelli at number 113. Opposite, at number 148, the products of agriculture and viticulture can be admired and bought. Noble brands, fashion boutiques and other delights can be found in the nearby Corso Vittoria Colonna.

Volcanic world on Ischia

In the thermal baths in Piazza Bagni in Ischia town, underground springs and the mud treatment plant are visible. Many hotels offer wellness and thermal treatments. The mountains of Ischia are magical. From Fontana in the mountains, the summit of Epomeo can be hiked in about three hours. The reward on the top of the mountain is unforgettable. The island lies at your feet, the view stretches far over the sea. At the summit, the café terrace La Grotta presents fairytale sunsets and refreshments.

Nature in Ischia

In Citara, a cactus garden of superlatives can be visited. In Forio, the earthly paradise of La Mortella, created by landscape architects as subtropical and Mediterranean gardens, enchants. The Villa Arbusto in Lacco Ameno used to be the residence of Herbert von Karajan, Angelo Rizzoli, Sofia Loren and Richard Burton. Today you can visit the magnificent garden of the villa with a breathtaking view over the gulf on Corso Angelo Rizzoli.

These are the influencers’ favorite destinations

All about travel

PatrickJullien

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20. June 2022

0

These are the influencers’ favorite destinations

With the summer holidays just around the corner and temperatures rising across the country, many of us are planning our holidays in full swing. But where should the journey go? Here we can all be inspired by our favorite influencers, who seem to discover the world permanently. Today we make it our business to bring you closer to a few of the influencer hotspots. With a bit of luck, you can also meet one or the other influencer on your trip or maybe even boost your own Instagram account with interesting stories and pictures.

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Budapest

The capital of Hungary is not only impressive for its famous thermal baths, some of which were built as early as the 16th century. The Jewish quarter, the Buda Castle and the breathtaking parliament building rightly attract numerous tourists every year. Especially when the sun sets in Budapest’s west, everyone gets their money’s worth in the metropolis. Budapest boasts excellent restaurants, bars and a huge party scene. And all this at a low price! So it’s no wonder that the venerable city captivates many tourists and influencers, especially in summer.

Amman

Known as one of the most liberal and western cities in the Orient, Amman is still more of an insider tip, but very popular among connoisseurs and influencers. With temperatures averaging 30 degrees in the summer months, Amman is the perfect destination. In addition to an urban mixture of Arab and Western culture, the city has a lot to offer with the citadel, the Roman theater and numerous museums. The metropolis has wonderfully managed to combine Arab-Islamic culture with the modern age. That’s why Amman is one of the best insider tips in our opinion.

Punta Cana

The Caribbean, the Dominican Republic, the blue sea. These words describe Punta Cana for what it is, a paradise! But what exactly does Punta Cana offer influencers and mere mortals besides the blue waters? This, of course, goes hand in hand with the white sandy beaches and palm trees. Who wouldn’t want to swim with dolphins in the “Dolphin Island Park”, or of course visit one of the local attractions? Whether as a single, as a couple or with friends, Punta Cana is a paradise destination for every vacationer. Everyone gets their money’s worth here. What attracts so many influencers to Punta Cana is also the uncomplicated entry with direct flights from Germany, the visa not required, as well as the communication with the locals, as almost everyone here speaks English.

Marrakech

As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Marrakech is a must-see for culture-loving travelers. Enclosed by mighty city walls, you will find a large number of city gardens, street markets and of course the old ruins of the El-Badi Palace in the royal city in addition to the protected old town. After a day full of cultural impressions, there is no way around a round of poker at the breathtaking Casino de Marrakech. In the casino, built in 1952, the evening can end with cold drinks and, with a bit of luck, a win at the blackjack table. If you’ve been bitten by casino fever after your stay, you can check out the latest games online at Platinplay Casino , no matter where you are in the world!

Mykonos

It is no coincidence that there are many influencers on Mykonos. As early as the 60s, the island attracted many prominent guests. But Mykonos doesn’t just impress with its famous parties and various shopping opportunities: beautiful architecture and breathtaking landscapes round off the perfect experience. Since the island is more known as a destination for higher earners, there is a relatively high chance that you will run into one of your favorite influencers.

Result

As you can see, there are also some great destinations that may not be too well known yet. Of course, there are countless other destinations that influencers bring us closer to on social media channels. Have we already been able to awaken the spirit of discovery in you?