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The most popular vacation spots in the Dominican Republic

Dominican Republic

PatrickJullien

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7. June 2022

The most popular vacation spots in the Dominican Republic

The Dominican Republic – a destination that many people dream of. Spend your holiday where the most beautiful beaches in the world are located. Switching off once in the Caribbean, that is the goal of many. The country is known for the most beautiful snow-white sandy beaches in the world. But the Dominican Republic also has a lot to offer historically and culturally. After all, this is where the famous explorer Christopher Columbus landed in 1492 when he discovered America. In the following, the most beautiful holiday resorts of the Dominican Republic from Santo Domingo to La Romana with their sights are briefly presented. You should definitely have seen it if you stay in this country.

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Capital Santo Domingo

Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic — View of Santo Domingo, Image: sharptoyou / shutterstock

The capital Santo Domingo should definitely be visited as part of a trip to the Dominican Republic. It is located on the south coast of the island. The capital with its 3 million inhabitants offers tourists all kinds of sights worth seeing. Here you can find the colorful life in all its diversity that the Dominican Republic has to offer. History and modernity are combined here. Impressive architecture, especially in the old town from the colonial era, is offered to visitors interested in historical buildings in this city. This part of Santo Domingo is a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its beauty that is worth preserving.

A monument to none other than the great explorer Christopher Columbus was erected in Santo Domingo. Both its statue and the Columbus Palace would be this well-known personality in the history of seafaring. Many fortresses and ruins from the past days of the colonial era offer tourists an instructive insight into history. Especially the fortress Ozama, which is still in very good condition today, is worth a visit. Many museums offer a wide range of activities for those interested in art and culture. The beautiful beach promenade “Avenida George Washington”, which is located directly on the blue sea, invites you to stroll and linger. At Playa Boca Chica, one of the most beautiful beaches in the entire Dominican Republic, there are many tourists who spend a fantastic beach holiday there. The cave lake park Los Tres Ojos should also be seen during a visit to the capital. The numerous restaurants of Santo Domingo offer all kinds of culinary delights of the region.

Puerto Plata – First settlement

Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic — Puerto Plata, Image: Fairy Lens / shutterstock

Puerta Plata is the place in the Dominican Republic where the first settlement in the New World was founded by the famous explorer Christopher Columbus. Over a total length of more than 100 kilometers, you will find beautiful beaches here. Playa Dorada in particular stands out here. This beach is also a very popular destination for surfers from all over the world. There are many sights in the city of Puerto Plata . The historically important fortress of San Felipe is a witness to the era of famous explorers and conquerors. In the Taíno Museum, those interested in culture can learn all kinds of interesting things about the indigenous people of the Dominican Republic. Another highlight is the Amber Museum, which tells about the first settlement of Christopher Columbus called “La Isabela”. Families can have fun at the fantastic Ocean World theme park .

Punta Cana

The popular holiday region of Punta Cana is located at the easternmost tip of the Dominican Republic. This is located on both the Caribbean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean. The beautiful sandy beaches with a total length of 32 kilometers attract numerous tourists every year. The water here is crystal clear. Punta Cana, together with Bávaro, is part of the Costa del Coco. This region is home to many beautiful all-inclusive hotel complexes.

Samaná Peninsula

Dominican Republic, Samana — Beaches on Samana, Image: Rafael Martin-Gaitero / shutterstock

The Samaná Peninsula is located in the northeast of the Dominican Republic. It is a popular travel destination in the region. However, it is not so much mass tourism that takes place here, but rather individual tourism. Here you will also find the well-known town of Santa Bárbara de Samaná. This is where the life of this beautiful region bustles. If you want to find a lonely spot with a beautiful white beach like Robinson Crusoe, this is the place for you. Everything here is still largely untouched. Very popular in this region is the holiday resort of Las Terrenas with the bay of Samaná. Here you have the opportunity to even watch humpback whales at certain times. Picturesque landscapes with wonderful nature also offer hiking enthusiasts many opportunities to pursue their hobby. You should definitely visit the Los Haitises National Park . Here you will find probably the most beautiful mangrove forests.

La Romana

La Romana on the south coast of the Dominican Republic is a paradise for water sports enthusiasts and golfers. But bathing enthusiasts will also find the most beautiful beaches with white sand here. Here you can also visit small fishing villages and see the grandiose sugar cane plantations of this area. La Romana is an area that offers a lot of activities, especially to sports enthusiasts. From diving and snorkeling to tennis, all these sports are numerous in the offer of the tour operators. A highlight is the Guadalupe Underwater Museum with old pirate wrecks of days gone by. The picturesque fishing village of Bayahibe is very beautiful.

The most beautiful holiday resorts in Bulgaria

Bulgaria

PatrickJullien

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6. June 2022

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The most beautiful holiday resorts in Bulgaria

The most beautiful and exotic beaches of the Balkans are located on the territory of Bulgaria – clean, hospitable and inviting for an unforgettable summer vacation! Wide sandy beach, clean sea and great nature. This makes the beaches in Bulgaria a popular holiday destination for tourists from the neighboring countries of Romania and Macedonia, as well as from far-flung countries such as Germany, Austria, Poland, the Czech Republic, and others.

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Visit Varna – the maritime capital of Bulgaria!

Varna is the largest city in northern Bulgaria and is located on the Bulgarian Black Sea coast. The city’s population is estimated at 336,505, which puts Varna in third place in Bulgaria (after Sofia and Plovdiv). Varna is often referred to as the “capital of the sea” or “summer capital of Bulgaria” and is an important tourist and educational center, as well as a starting point for resorts on the northern Black Sea coast. The city is home to a gold treasure from the Chalcolithic period, which until recently was considered the oldest gold treasure in the world. Nearby are holiday resorts that attract with their beautiful beaches. The town’s restaurants with their delicious cuisine and the beach bars are a real treat for the soul after the long cold months.

Varna is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in Bulgaria – vast golden sandy beaches, green freshness, clear sea and a variety of resorts and localities, recreation areas and places of relaxation. Everyone will find their paradise here – families with children, young people looking for fun and nature lovers who prefer a quiet and peaceful holiday. The Black Sea coast of Varna offers numerous opportunities for recreation and entertainment – on the wide, up to 32 km long coastline there are over 22 beaches, some of which have been awarded the “Blue Flag” – a symbol of a clean and ecological environment.

Albena – Peace and Security

Albena, Bulgarian Black Sea Coast — Extensive beach in Albena, Image: Michael Dechev / shutterstock

Millions of tourists around the world know this name – Albena. The Bulgarian brand, which has become a symbol of high-quality family holidays, is a popular holiday destination. The hotels are lined up like a white chain along the long, fine sandy beach. The shallow and clear sea caresses the beautiful coast, and the nearby nature reserve “Baltata” fills guests with healthy air. Sunny Albena is the most popular holiday village for young and old. This paradisiacal spot on earth, surrounded by forest, sea and beach, is the ideal place for a relaxing family holiday. Albena attracts its guests with cozy hotels and thousands of recreational and sports facilities.

Albena Holiday Village is the perfect place for happy children and relaxed parents, because here the little ones have plenty of space to let off steam to their heart’s content, ride a bike, rollerblade, kick a ball without worrying. The children can let off steam in Albena without hindrance, because Albena’s Green Mission and the parking policy limit car traffic in the complex to a minimum. For an even more memorable holiday for Albena’s youngest guests, the resort also has bungees, trampolines, roller coasters, gondolas, bumper cars and water shock absorbers.

Zlatni Piasaci attracts with its picturesque coast, cozy beaches, clean air

Zlatni Piasaci (Golden Sands) is located 16 km north of the maritime capital Varna in the cool forest of the nature park of the same name, very close to the golden sandy beach. The name of the resort is very meaningful in itself. Legend has it that Black Sea pirates buried a wonderful treasure of gold on the shore of today’s resort. The sea, however, avenged the injustice of the bandits by turning the gold jewels and money into beautiful, fine, golden sand…
Do you want to enjoy a romantic sunrise or sunset on the beach, go fishing or drive as close to the beach as possible? Whether relaxing, swimming or walking, playing with the kite or building sand castles, the most beautiful beaches of Zlatni Piasaci offer something for everyone.

Sunny Beach – not everything is alcohol in Bulgaria’s largest resort!

Sunny Beach is the largest resort on the Black Sea. With its hotels and apartment complexes located along the coast and hidden in the greenery, Sunny Beach seems like a magical oasis. The resort of Sunny Beach is located on the southern Black Sea coast, about 30 km from the regional center of Burga, 100 km from Varna, the Bulgarian capital on the Black Sea, and 3 km from the ancient city of Nesebar. It is located in a wide, semicircular bay that is open to the east. In the north, the resort is surrounded by the heights of the Stara Planina Mountains, which coexist harmoniously with the sea, and in the south it borders on the picturesque Nessebar. The beach is 8 km long and 30 to 60 meters wide, covered with fine golden sand and natural sand dunes. Many rare plants grow here. The sea is clean, without dangerous fish. The average temperature of the sea water is 20-26 degrees Celsius and the salinity is twice that of the Mediterranean. The sunshine duration between May and October is about 1700 hours. Sunny Beach has been awarded the Blue Flag because it has been proven to offer clean beaches and a clean sea, as well as fresh air from the nearby mountains. In recent years, Sunny Beach has established itself as a destination for alcohol and youth tourism – but there is something for everyone! Try it out!

Shabla – lots of unspoiled nature and tranquility!

Shabla, Bulgaria — You will find peace and relaxation in Shabla, Image: naskopi / shutterstock

Shabla is a small town in northeastern Bulgaria that, with its beautiful, unspoiled nature, is a popular place for tourists who love peace and quiet. Guest houses, campsites, villas and small family hotels are fully occupied in the summer season. The locals are distinguished by their hospitality, and for tourists there is an unfathomable magic of the north that attracts them every year to the vicinity of Shabla, Tyulennovo, Krapets, Durankulak and other beautiful places.

The most beautiful holiday resorts in Fuerteventura

PatrickJullien

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5. June 2022

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The most beautiful holiday resorts in Fuerteventura

The Canary Islands have a whole repertoire of wonderful places where you can spend an incomparable stay. Fuerteventura is one of the islands of the Canary archipelago and is characterized by beautiful beaches and fantastic natural landscapes that delight the eye of any tourist. One of the greatest advantages of the island is that it has a rich repertoire of fascinating places that encourage you to discover the local culture and enjoy various recreational activities that will make your stay a unique experience.

You can also stay in a hotel just a few meters from the beach. So you can watch the landscape from your room and walk for hours along the beautiful Atlantic Ocean.

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A visit to the capital Puerto del Rosario is worthwhile

Puerto del Rosario, Fuerteventura — Puerto del Rosario, Image: MikhailBerkut / shutterstock

Puerto del Rosario, as the capital of Fuerteventura , is one of the most beautiful places on the island. The city is known for its great atmosphere and the friendly attitude of its inhabitants towards tourists. Among the leisure activities you can experience in Puerto del Rosario are windsurfing and surfing on the beaches, visiting the Casa Museo de Unamuno Museum and the Church of Nuestra Señora del Rosario or attending the wonderful performances in the island’s auditorium. The beach of Puerto del Rosario or, as it is commonly called, Playa Chica, because it is only a little more than 130 meters long, is located right in the center of the island’s capital. It borders the pedestrian street “Paseo de los demócratas”, which was inaugurated in the summer of 2012. This promenade has wooden platforms that can be used as a sun terrace or as a grandstand overlooking the sea. Playa Chica is an urban beach with golden sand, protected by a breakwater redesigned in 2012, which makes the water very calm. It is located on a wide avenue with rest areas. The beach is very easy to access, with stairs and a ramp for the disabled, strollers and people with reduced mobility. It has many services: benches and umbrellas, lifeguard tower, showers, public toilets, garbage cans, umbrellas (free of charge). In front of the beach are restaurants and terrace bars, and just a few meters away is the Las Rotondas shopping center.

Corralejo attracts with beautiful beaches and azure blue water

Corralejo Beach — Fantastic beach of Corralejo, Image: Juergen_Wallstabe / shutterstock

In the north of Fuerteventura there are several charming places, including the town of Corralejo. This place is considered one of the most important tourist areas on the island, as a lot has been invested in improving the roads and the signage of the paths in recent years. In Corralejo you will have the opportunity to enjoy the beautiful beaches such as La Alzada and Bajo Negro. They all consist of crystal clear waters and large areas of white sand. And if you love adventure, there’s nothing better than exploring Lobos Island to enjoy this little landscape paradise.
And if that’s not enough for you, you can visit the Corralejo Tourist Office, where you can get information about the different excursions in the city. You can also enjoy water sports and visit various leisure activities such as bars and discos.

Morro Jable – a true paradise on the island of Fuerteventura

Morro Jable, Fuerteventura — Morro Jable, Image: Nido Huebl / shutterstock

Another charming holiday resort in Fuerteventura that you should definitely visit is Morro Jable. This place is located at the southern end of the island and is visited every year by numerous tourists who enjoy the local leisure and culture. In Morro Jable you can admire the multifaceted nature of the coast and the geographical relief and walk among the striking white houses near the golden sandy beach and the turquoise sea. In the old part of the village, you can visit the port that connects Fuerteventura with the rest of the archipelago and get to know the traditional fishing past, which is still part of the local cultural identity.

Discover Canarian architecture in Pájara

Pájara is one of the largest and most charming municipalities on the island and is located in the centre of Fuerteventura, which also includes the Jandía peninsula with a 144 km² natural park. The Pico de la Zarza, one of the highest points above sea level in Fuerteventura, is also located in Pájara. So if you have a head for heights, you should not miss this charming sight. You can also enjoy the popular Canarian architecture by visiting charming places such as the Church of Nuestra Señora de Regla.

The Jandía Peninsula invites you to visit

Jandia, Fuerteventura — Jandía, Image: 1 Media / shutterstock

And finally, the Jandía peninsula, which is one of the most charming places in Fuerteventura and has become the symbol of the island thanks to its beautiful landscapes and magnificent coastline. Among the special features of Jandía are the beaches with their golden sand and turquoise sea, which promise relaxation for those who want to take long walks in this charming place.

But you won’t just enjoy relaxation and beach walks. You can also practice various water sports such as kitesurfing and windsurfing or enjoy the best of local gastronomy in the numerous restaurants and bars in the area.

Visit the oldest village of Betancuria

When it comes to fascinating places, in the west of Fuerteventura you can’t miss the former capital of the island (until 1834) Betancuria. It was the first city of the Canary Islands and was founded in 1404 by the conqueror Jean IV de Bettencourt.

Betancuria is without a doubt an integral part of the cultural heritage and history of Fuerteventura and has one of the most attractive historic centres on the whole island. Currently, there are only 800 people living here. On your tour you will discover such well-known places as the Archaeological and Ethnographic Museum, the Church of Santa Maria, Las Peñitas, the Parque Rural de Betancuria and the viewpoints of Ayose and Guise.

Holidays in Belek in Turkey

Turkey

PatrickJullien

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3. June 2022

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Golden beaches, historic sites and world-class golf courses… Holidays in Belek are a real crowd puller. This upscale resort may still be quite new, but that hasn’t stopped it from making a name for itself on the Turkish Riviera. Famous for its 5-star hotels and 10 miles of sandy beach, Belek is the king of flies and flop vacations – think long afternoons soaking up the sun and sipping fruity cocktails. Fancy a bit of adventure? No problem! There are a lot of adrenaline-pumping activities you can throw yourself into.

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Climb the Mountain of the Gods!

Golfing in Belek — Belek is a perfect destination for playing golf (Here: Sueno Hotel Golf Belek), Image: sdf_qwe / shutterstock

Lace up your hiking boots and apply sunscreen to climb Mount Olympos – the view from up here is amazing! Or make your way to Köprülü Canyon for an unforgettable whitewater rafting experience. Oh, and did someone say roller coaster? The Land of Legends Theme Park is the ultimate place for thrills – just don’t forget your swimming trunks, there might be a splash or two!

Belek – a paradise for golf lovers

But it’s not just the rides and rapids that make a holiday in Belek so exciting. For the golf lovers out there, this resort is a little slice of heaven. With 11 clubs – and six championship courses – there’s plenty of opportunity to practice your swing. And if you’re more into sightseeing, there’s also plenty to explore in Belek. Play archaeologist as you wander through ancient ruins, or channel your inner photographer with a snap-pleasing excursion to the spectacular Kurşunlu Waterfall.

Theme Park – Land of Legends

Near Belek, a little away from the coast, there is a huge entertainment center called the Land of Legends. Upon entering the complex, one feels transported to the world of fairy tales, and this concept continues throughout the complex. It is not for nothing that the facility is called the Disneyland of Antalya. The massive water park offers a total of 55 water slides and an adventure park attraction with every imaginable ride, including gondola rides on the canal, popcorn and donut stands, and fairy tale characters everywhere you look.
This is a true paradise for children. Particularly noteworthy are the nightly laser and light shows and the impressive shopping mall with more than 100 shops. These activities attract millions of tourists annually and have been the most popular activity among tourists since it opened.

Stay at a beach resort

The Turkish Riviera offers more than 630 kilometers of coastline. With so much to choose from, it’s often hard to choose a beach. Konyaaltı Beach is set against the backdrop of the imposing Taurus Mountains, Mermerli Beach – a rocky sandy beach – is located right on the harbor and can be reached via the stairs of a restaurant, and Marmara Beach is only accessible by elevator. Families will appreciate Cleopatra Beach near Alanya , while the 18 km Patara Beach near Kaş is known for its white sand.

Lara Beach impresses with its close proximity to the Düden Waterfalls, which fall directly into the sea, while Olympos Beach convinces with its proximity to nature and wildlife. Here you can spend the night in a tree house and watch sea turtles. The small town of Kalkan is surrounded by high rocks and has the charming appearance of a fishing village.

Ancient Aspendos Theatre

About 40 km east of Antalya is Aspendos, famous for its Roman theatre dating back to the 2nd century AD. It is considered one of the best-preserved theaters in the world and is still used as a venue during the summer months. Every year in June, the International Opera and Ballet Festival takes place here. In addition, the famous show “Fire of Anatolia” is performed in the theater of Aspendos. Attending a performance in the old theatre is certainly an unforgettable experience. Definitely a very popular place to visit in Belek.

Day trip to Antalya

Hadrian's Gate in Antalya — Hadrian’s Gate in Antalya, Image: IgorKR / shutterstock

A day visit to Antalya, which is only 32 kilometers from Belek, offers a good opportunity to escape from everyday life in the beach hotel. Explore the city starting from the old town of Kaleiçi, the historic center. Hadrian’s Gate in Antalya, Hıdırlık Tower, Yivli Minare Mosque, Kesik Minaret and Kaleiçi with its narrow alleys, historic houses and old marina cover an area of about 1 km in diameter. It’s easy to explore everything on foot.

Don’t miss the Düden Waterfalls (Lower Düden Waterfall and Upper Düden Waterfall), and if you have the time and desire, visit the Antalya Aquarium afterwards. Here you can see around 5,000 fish and underwater creatures in a total of 64 tanks and 40 themed aquariums. Particularly impressive is the world’s largest tunnel aquarium – a 131 m long and 3 m wide tunnel that runs under the tanks and gives you the feeling of swimming with sharks…

Visit the Manavgat Bazaar

Every day there is a market in Manavgat. The open-air market in the small regional town, 75 km east of Antalya, is one of the largest in the entire region. The covered bazaar in the city center is held daily. You’ll find jewelry, leather, souvenirs, hand-woven rugs, clothing, spices, and more. An additional market is held every Monday and Thursday in the side streets, which is divided into two areas. One mainly sells textiles and clothing.

Here you will find many well-known brand imitations that may not be imported into Germany . In the other part, the farmers sell their local products – here it is mainly about fruit and vegetables.

A holiday in Belek has a lot to offer. So if you’re torn between a luxurious beach vacation and an action-packed escape, you don’t have to choose! Sunbathing, mountaineering and roller coaster rides can be done here in one day.

The most beautiful holiday islands in Thailand

PatrickJullien

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3. June 2022

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The most beautiful holiday islands in Thailand

Thailand rightfully holds the crown as the most popular tourist destination in Southeast Asia, and its popularity continues to rise. The tropical country is located on both the Andaman Sea and the Gulf of Thailand and borders Malaysia, Laos, Cambodia and Myanmar.

If you want to combine exoticism and adventure with endless white beaches, palm forests, turquoise blue sea and low prices, Thailand is the right place for you. But while the mainland also attracts with numerous attractions and is always worth a visit, the real charm of Thailand lies in its extensive island world. Thailand has a wide range of islands in all sizes and shapes in both seas, some of which are much more touristy than others.

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How to get there

If you want to visit one of Thailand’s islands, there are several options. Especially the larger, very touristy islands such as Koh Samui or Phuket have large airports and can be reached very easily, for example from the capital Bangkok . Unfortunately, direct flights from Germany are not offered. If you want to visit lesser-known or smaller islands, you can travel by boat. There are many such ferry connections, which also makes the journey relatively uncomplicated and inexpensive.

Let yourself be convinced and enchanted by the 5 most beautiful holiday islands in Thailand.

Phuket – the big island for beginners

Patong, Phuket — Patong Beach on Phuket, Image: John_Walker / shutterstock

Phuket – The largest of all Thai islands is also the most popular with tourists. The main town of Patong is therefore very well developed for tourism and those who like to move on safe paths are in good hands here. The city also offers a debauched colorful nightlife and an excellent infrastructure. If you explore the rest of the island, however, you can still find and enjoy peace and quiet and beautiful scenery and beaches very quickly. Particularly recommended is the Sirinat National Park, which has relatively empty beaches and beautiful forests.

Koh Samui – Thailand as you imagine it

Koh Samui is Thailand’s third largest island and has an area of 233 square kilometers. It is generally considered the most versatile island and, together with Phuket, is the clear leader in terms of tourist numbers. Of course, there are good reasons for this, because on Koh Samui you will find everything a holidaymaker’s heart desires in Thailand. Here you will find the right offer for every price range and for every area of interest. Whether it’s a luxury holiday with lots of culture and nightlife or a family holiday in a holiday apartment right on the beach – everything is possible on Koh Samui. The northeast is particularly known for its parties, while in the south of the island you can also marvel at quiet little fishing villages and untouched nature.

Koh Phangan – the hip party island

View of Koh Pangan, Image: Huw Penson / shutterstock

Koh Phangan is particularly popular with younger tourists and backpackers looking for alternative entertainment. Particularly well-known and popular are the so-called “Moon Parties”, which are a great attraction in themselves. Koh Phangan is also very popular with yoga lovers and offers plenty of offers for interested parties and professionals. But nature is not neglected here either: numerous temples and waterfalls characterize this island and an ascent of the 627-meter-high mountain Khao Ra is definitely worth the effort.

Koh Tao – perfect for diving

This small island is also called Turtle Island due to its shape and is geographically the little sister of Koh Samui and Koh Phangan. It is famous as one of the best diving areas in the world and that is exactly the main attraction of Koh Tao – the beautiful underwater world. The diving industry here offers affordable diving courses for every level and even if you just want to go snorkeling, you will hardly find a better place to do so. Another special feature is the frequent opportunity to encounter wild whale sharks, which form a fantastic climax to the dazzling schools of fish and coral banks. The island is also one of the most beautiful in Thailand and offers beautiful beaches and other recommended attractions, such as the natural John Suwan viewpoint.

Koh Phi Phi – the backpacker stronghold

Koh Phi Phi is best known for the Hollywood film “The Beach” with Leonardo Di Caprio, which was released in 2000. And even though the island is no longer a lonely paradise, it still offers all kinds of attractions. Here, too, there is a lot to find for both party-goers and nature lovers, including Long Beach or Viking Cave. The many bays, which are best explored by boat from the sea, are also particularly recommended. Due to the high number of backpackers from all over the world, it is also very easy to make new friends here. Koh Phi Phi is therefore very attractive, especially for solo travelers. The prices are cheap and even for diving, Koh Phi Phi is ideal. A true all-rounder.

Mdina in Malta – the city of silence

Malta

PatrickJullien

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2. June 2022

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Mdina is the old capital of Malta and is located in the center of the island. The place looks back on more than 4,000 years of history and is also called the “City of Silence”. In any case, Mdina is one of the most beautiful walled cities in all of Europe. It is conspicuously enthroned on a 190-metre-high hill above the surrounding countryside. The old town is completely car-free and exudes a unique magic that hardly any visitor can escape.

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Brief history of Mdina

Already under the Romans, Mdina experienced its first heyday and was much larger at that time than it is today. Before that, the Phoenicians had already shaped this area. From 870 AD, the Arabs ruled over the city and also gave it its name. However, Mdina received its current strong fortress walls under the rule of the Normans in the 12th century. These strong walls then also prevented the Turks from invading in the 15th century. The former stables of Mdina now form an independent city, namely the neighboring Rabat. While Mdina was the capital of Malta under the Knights of St. John for a short time from 1530, it soon had to give up this role to Birgu and finally to Valletta . Since then, Mdina has experienced a significant decline in population and today has just 400 inhabitants with a declining trend. Neighboring Rabat is much larger. Last but not least, the British stopped by Mdina during their colonial rule.

The most important sights in Mdina

The Main Gate

As a rule, you enter Mdina through the large baroque city gate. It is the prelude to an atmospheric tour through the narrow streets of the old town. It was built in 1724 by order of Grand Master Manoel de Vilhena. After passing the Main Gate, the first thing you come across is the Torre dello Standardo. This is part of the massive city fortifications and was used by the Knights of St. John for communication with other cities in Malta .

The heart of Mdina – the cathedral

St. Paul’s Cathedral is the unmissable focal point of the old town of Mdina. Like so many other churches in Malta, it is built of white limestone and has two twin towers. Kept simple on the outside, the richly decorated interior of the cathedral is all the more impressive. You can see artistic baroque decorations, several tombs, beautiful frescoes and the dome enthroned above everything. Right next to the cathedral, the adjoining cathedral museum is also worth a visit.

The Palaces of Mdina

Main Gate Mdina — View of the main gate and the city wall of Mdina, Image: eldeiv / shutterstock

Mdina’s old town is characterized by several magnificent palaces. The Palazzo Falson from the 13th century and the Palazzo Vilhena on St. Publius Square are particularly impressive. The latter palace was built in the 17th century and now houses the exhibitions of the Natural History Museum. Underground stretches a branching labyrinth of corridors and chambers, the so-called Mdina Dungeons.

The fortress walls of Mdina

The mighty fortress walls surround the old town of Mdina almost squarely. Today, the walls can be visited and guarantee unique views of the narrow streets of the village and the varied surrounding area. The city wall has both medieval and baroque elements. However, an earthquake at the end of the 17th century destroyed parts of the defiant fortress walls. The alternation of light and shadow creates unforgettable plays of colour here as well as in the narrow streets of the old town.

A beautiful view can be enjoyed not least from the Pjazza Tas-Sur. It is lined with pretty town houses.

Food & Drink in Mdina

The cozy alleys of Mdina invite you to try some of the local food and drinks. Fresh fish and the fish soup Aljotta with garlic, rice and tomatoes are just as much a part of it as the Maltese vegetable stew or the rabbit stew “Stuffat Tal-Fenek”. This is also served fried. The optionally sweet or savoury pastizzi, a greasy puff pastry, should also be tried. “Qassatat” is the name of another popular snack with pea or ricotta filling. Inspired by Italy, fresh pasta is of course also served, but the Arabic influences have also left their mark on Maltese cuisine. The best way to go with it is the tart-sweet lemonade Kinnie, the national drink of Malta, or a cool Cisk lager. For example, Café Fontanella with its beautiful view is recommended for a bite to eat.

Travel time and climate for Mdina

Summers in Malta are usually warm, humid and dry. In winter, on the other hand, it can also be windy and cool. In July it is warmest with just under 30°C. Rain usually only occurs between September and March. June and July are completely free of precipitation. Spring and autumn are considered the best time to travel, but even in summer, after an extended day of swimming, it is worth taking a detour to the “City of Silence”, when most day visitors have already left Mdina. Especially in the evening it exudes a fantastic atmosphere.

Panarea – The smallest of the Aeolian Islands

Italy

PatrickJullien

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1. June 2022

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Panarea – The smallest of the Aeolian Islands

The island region around Sicily has been able to make a name for itself in recent years, especially through the volcanic activity of the islands. Stromboli is certainly a special example – in recent years, the volcano has been active several times, but has also attracted interest to the many beautiful islands that await holidaymakers near Sicily. Of course, we are talking about the Aeolian Islands – sometimes called the Aeolian Islands – all of which have their own unique charm. Especially the smallest and oldest island, Panarea, has earned a reputation as an excellent holiday destination in recent years.

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The most beautiful of the Aeolian Islands?

Capo Milazzese, Panarea — Capo Milazzese, Image: Emilio messina / shutterstock

It is certainly a matter of taste which of the Aeolian Islands would win the award as the best representative. Above all, however, it is also a question of what you actually want to do. The islands are known among holidaymakers in Italy, especially among hikers. It is quite easy to get from Sicily to the different ports and has small islands available here, which are ideal for a day trip including a hike in the mixture of volcanic rock and virtually untouched nature. In Panarea, there is also the charm of the small villages, which has caused a small image change on the island in recent years.

Even the journey to the island is a small highlight. Usually you start the tour from Lipari and leave the beautiful natural harbour here to arrive in Panarea in the shortest possible time. The small village of San Pietro is home to the island’s harbour and quickly gives a first glimpse of what to expect when visiting. The beautiful sea is of course only one of many reasons – after all, you have it everywhere on the Italian south coast. Above all, it is the impressive cliffs and the flora and fauna that have made the island such a popular destination for hikers and excursion guests in the region in recent years. But what quickly catches the eye are the bright facades and the luxurious-looking houses, which you wouldn’t expect on a small island with just 300 permanent residents.

The island of Italy’s rich and beautiful

Especially in summer, Italian high society is drawn to the island. From influential Italian families to pop stars from the USA , many have a booking for a holiday home or even their own home here. Especially the youth of these families like to use the seclusion for one or the other party, because paparazzi don’t just come here like that, of course. For the simple holidaymaker, this means above all that a good infrastructure is available. There are no classic hotels, but especially out of season you have the opportunity for beautiful holiday homes, which usually offer a unique view of the sea.

Since life on the island has actually been completely converted to tourism, there are no classic sights outside the villages. The church of the Assunta is an example of things to see on the island. If you decide to go on a day trip, you usually do so either for a hike through the untouched parts of the island or for a long party night, which is also possible here without any problems. The small bars and restaurants in particular cater to holidaymakers who want to turn night into day and therefore not only offer the right refreshments, but usually also a good selection of bars.

The most beautiful hiking routes in Panarea

Many of the hiking trails have been expanded in recent years and offer different levels of difficulty for visitors. However, there are also some little-known paths on the island that nature has already reclaimed, which are correspondingly overgrown but offer a special experience. The two most important paths lead either to the highest point of the island and are of course associated with a corresponding level of difficulty on the ascent – here you should already be an experienced hiker. As a rule, there are corresponding tours that also offer accompaniment in a larger group. The other path leads once around the island to one of the most beautiful beaches, where you can even find a small bar to reward yourself after the activity.

A visit to Panarea, especially as a day trip, is always a good way to discover the islands with all their beauty. If you can afford it, you should also consider an overnight stay – especially in summer, the nightlife on the island is impressively exciting.

Colónia de Sant Jordi – Sand and sun at the southern tip of Mallorca

PatrickJullien

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31. May 2022

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Colónia de Sant Jordi – Sand and sun at the southern tip of Mallorca

The further south you drive in the east of Mallorca, the drier the wide and flat country becomes. But numerous fjords with picturesque bays invite you to take a fabulous break by the almost Caribbean turquoise sea. This is where Colónia de Sant Jordi is located. The “colony” – a holiday resort with a pretty marina – is surrounded by beautiful beaches. With its wide coves, Colónia de Sant Jordi is the ideal place for beach enthusiasts.

Now that you’ve really got into the mood, you want to float forever through the lonely landscapes of the south. Here, Mallorca is still a bit as it once was. Even the sun seems to shine a little brighter here than elsewhere – and that’s not just because of the glistening white of the nearby salt flats.

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Island feeling and coastal magic

View of Colonia de Sant Jordi, Image: Video Media Studio Europe / shutterstock

Superb beaches, salty lakes and the island paradise of Cabrera on your doorstep; a nice coastal promenade with restaurants and cafés and a lively harbour from which boats depart for the Archipiélago de Cabrera – boredom is certainly not an option in Colónia de Sant Jordi.

When entering the village, you should not be deceived by the faceless cityscape. Dreamlike, almost unspoilt beaches that are not overcrowded even in the high season make the place a paradise for sun worshippers and water rats. From the small colorful harbor, you can walk to the beautiful beaches of Platja els Dols, and the dream beaches of Ses Roquetes and Es Carbo, further southeast. Some linger for a while at the romantic harbour with its palm-fringed pedestrian zone. Instead of ostentatious yachts, fishing boats bob in the bay – they are a real eye-catcher.

To the west of Colónia de Sant Jordi is one of the most popular beaches on the island. Es Trenc is a fine sandy beach pleasure over a length of five kilometres. There are no hotel towers in the background, but dunes and Aleppo pines line this stretch of coast.

The islands of Cabrera belong to nature: but visitors are welcome! The main island of Cabrera is a beautiful swimming and hiking destination. A steep path leads from the harbour up to the castle, which once served as barracks and prison for Napoleonic soldiers. Down at the bay there are tiny stretches of beach. The Cabrera Archipelago can be visited by boat from Colónia de Sant Jordi. The crossing takes about 45 minutes.

Worth seeing – at a glance

At the harbour and along the promenade, Colónia de Sant Jordi shows its most beautiful side. The promenade leads along the flat rocky coast over a wooden footbridge. In the harbour bay there is a small beach, cafés and fish restaurants.
Attractive natural beaches flank the town. Mallorca’s dream beach, the Platja de Trenc, joins the Platja Estanys to the west.
You should also not miss a tour of the large botanical garden at Ses Salines Santanyi . The Botanicactus is home to numerous cacti and a wetland with Mediterranean plant species on 15 hectares.
Cabrera: Once a pirate’s hideout, visitors can now approach the island safely. A visit to the idiosyncratic visitor center Centro de Vistiantes Parque Nacional de Cabrera is definitely worthwhile. The main attraction is a huge seawater aquarium.

Active in Colónia de Sant Jordi – enchanting and excitingly beautiful

Would you like to take a look through the shop window into the underwater world of Cabrera? It’s very easy. To do this, visitors dive into the saltwater aquarium with a panorama lift and look the barracudas in the eye. Then it goes up to the observation tower. Just don’t dive up too quickly: On the way, it’s worth taking a look at the maritime wall mosaic – murals that depict the settlement history of the Mediterranean region. Finally, the upper platform offers a wonderful view.

Attention water sports enthusiasts! At Platja Estanys you can go sailing, surfing and water skiing.

Hikers also get their money’s worth. Then a walk to the Cap de ses Salines is on the program. Along the beach you can reach the southern tip of Mallorca, past old bunkers and sandy coves. After a more or less long walk, you can enjoy a solitude in the immediate vicinity of the sea, which is quite unusual for Mallorca.

Known? Colónia de Sant Jordi is mainly attracted by tourists from Switzerland. Many hotels and accommodations are run by Swiss nationals. A debauched nightlife like in Magaluf or S’Arenal is therefore not to be expected.

The most beautiful destinations in the area

Capocorb Vell, Mallorca — Capocorb Vell, Image: Karel Gallas / shutterstock

A trip to Capocorb Vell, the most important Talayotic settlement in the western Mediterranean, is worthwhile. It was probably built until the 3. and 4th century.

In the direction of Campos there are many windmills that once pumped water for the fields. Ses Salines de Levant are salt lakes with typical white crystal heaps. Occasionally you can see flamingos there.

And in Banys de Sant Joan are the only thermal springs on the island. The small spa hotel dates back to 1842. It is also accessible to day visitors.

Where it tastes best

“Port-Blau” stands out as a classically elegant fish restaurant on the harbour promenade, while Sal de Coco attracts visitors with creative and tasteful Mallorca cuisine. In addition, the terrace offers the perfect harbour view. The name of the restaurant refers to the salt residues that can be found in rock hollows by the sea.
Tambucho – this bar is cult: During the day, it’s mostly the locals who sip their coffee here. But in the evening, the team of the harbour bar is in top form, serving great cocktails and fine tapas. Music from pop to independent to flamenco is often presented live.
Probably the most famous fish restaurant on the island is Casa Manolo. Here people appreciate the freshness of the sea. There are regulars who swear that Manolo is the best tapas on the island.

The “Greek Caribbean Island” – Skiathos

Greece

PatrickJullien

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30. May 2022

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Skiathos is one of the lesser-known travel destinations in Greece, at least in the German tourism landscape. The island is the smallest island of the Sporades in terms of area, but with around 6000 inhabitants it is the busiest and also the most popular among holidaymakers. Skiathos is a true beauty with a distinctly green nature, turquoise waters and 60 different beaches. Many of them are only accessible from the sea and so the image of sailing ships and yachts anchored in the small, dreamlike bays is actually reminiscent of the Caribbean in many places. Skiathos, which is only eleven kilometers long and five kilometers wide, even has an international airport (Alexandros Papadiamantis), which is also served by foreign charter planes. The northern part of the island is virtually uninhabited and is decisively shaped by the mountain range around the 433-metre-high Mitikas peak.

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The fantastic beaches of Skiathos

Skiathos Beaches — Fantastic beaches on Skiathos, Image: Cara-Foto / shutterstock

Skiathos is famous for its approximately 60 beautiful sandy beaches, some of which are among the most beautiful in all of Greece . Lalaria Beach in the north of the island is undoubtedly one of the absolute highlights with its steep cliffs, the spectacular rock formation Tripia Petra and the white and blue pebbles. It is not accessible by road, but only by boat. The trip there is already a fantastic experience, because it goes past several sea caves with green-blue shimmering water, some of which are even large enough to drive into. The secluded Lalaria beach is located in a natural bay bordered by a vertical rock wall. There is no snack bar, sunbed or umbrella rental, but a uniquely unobstructed view of the Aegean Sea.

In the southwest of Skiathos, another beach, the crescent-shaped Koukounaries Beach, enchants tourists. It is surrounded by a dense pine forest, behind which the freshwater lake Strofylia is hidden. The fine, light sand of the “pinecone beach”, as it is translated, captivates in combination with the colors green and blue that are so typical of the whole island. There is a wide range of water sports on offer on this stretch of coast and activities in such breathtaking nature are guaranteed to be even more fun. Snorkeling and diving are also unforgettable experiences on Skiathos, which still has a relatively intact underwater world by Mediterranean standards.

Another popular beach is the lively Megali Ammos Beach. Here you can sit down in one of the picturesque taverns and enjoy a Greek scene like from the holiday brochure or the ouzo advertisement.

Due to the small size of the island, you have the opportunity to discover many different beaches on Skiathos. During a round trip, you will certainly come across your absolute favorite place by the sea.

Skiathos Town – Pure Romance

The old town of Chora on the island of Skiathos, Greece — The old town of Chora, Image: Georgios Tsichlis / shutterstock

As on many Greek islands, the main town on Skiathos is simply called Chora. The harbour is dominated by the town’s landmark, the impressive Bourtzi Castle, which was built on a small peninsula in the 13th century. Today, a variety of festivals and cultural events take place here during the summer. Through the narrow, picturesque streets with the mostly whitewashed houses, a cosmopolitan, cosmopolitan atmosphere blows during the holiday season. During the stroll, you will pass charming little boutiques and souvenir shops, inviting taverns and lots of bars. The majority of domestic and foreign tourists on Skiathos are young. Due to the varied nightlife, students, among others, like to come to the island. In the evening, the streets in Chora are closed to car traffic and the restaurants put even more tables outside.

Watching the harbour with a frappé in your hand with the sailboats and yachts swaying gently in the wind is pure relaxation. Fans of the ABBA film “Mamma Mia”, which was partly filmed on Skiathos, can be guided to the various filming locations around the attractive promenade and will find that it really is as beautiful as it was seen on the screen.

Sights on Skiathos

Unlike most other areas in Greece, there are no significant archaeological attractions on Skiathos. In Kastro, however, the remains of the old island capital can be seen in a hard-to-reach place on the cliffs. Between the 14th and 19th centuries, most of the islanders lived here to be safe from pirate raids. Of the approximately 300 houses at that time, only a few remain today, but some churches have been restored. The writer Alexandros Papadiamantis is the most famous son of the island and is revered by the locals almost like a saint. His home, where he died in 1911, is now a museum and his skull is even exhibited in the Church of St. Mary in Skiathos.

The pine forests, which cover about two-thirds of the island, make Skiathos an excellent destination for hiking enthusiasts. In total, the route of beautiful dirt roads and trails adds up to a length of almost 250 kilometres. Since these are mainly in the shade of trees, it is rarely too hot for this activity, even in midsummer. Of course, it is especially beautiful in spring and at the beginning of summer, when the climatic conditions are most pleasant. The fact that most of the trails eventually lead to the sea, where you can then plunge into the cool waters for refreshment, is another plus.

Skiathos differs in many ways from most well-known Greek holiday islands. It is definitely worth discovering this gem in the Aegean Sea.

Holiday photos with your smartphone: five tips for perfect success!

All about travel

PatrickJullien

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30. May 2022

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Holiday photos with your smartphone: five tips for perfect success!

Since the smartphone is ubiquitous, it has largely replaced the system or SLR camera for normal vacationers on vacation trips. Nevertheless, it is unfortunately rarely possible to capture the motifs on location with the desired liveliness and precision. We show five tips that help to make vacation photos shine in a new light.

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Tip 1: the right software

Depending on the smartphone, the software for the camera’s settings is more or less extensive. If possible, the following settings should be made, among others:

By default, most smartphones take pictures in JPG format. This reduces the file size, but JPGs are always subject to loss effects. Switching to RAW mode guarantees that images are captured without compression (which is also beneficial for post-processing).
A higher resolution potentially ensures that details in the photo are more visible. This is useful for motifs with many small elements – such as a tree with countless flowers. Activating the highest resolution should be done if necessary.
Most photo applications allow horizontal and/or vertical guides to be displayed. This helps, for example, to align a photo exactly with the horizon or to take a picture of a building without a side tilt.

Many other tips can improve the experience: A flash should be avoided unless absolutely necessary. In addition, the ISO value in the software should always be selected as low as possible. ISO values that are too high add a distinctive image noise, which looks bad, especially in the dark.

Tip 2: Image stabilizer

Older and modern smartphones show big differences in handling. When taking a photo, the preview on the display is very steady on some models, but very shaky on others. This is due to the integration of an optical or electronic image stabilizer in the smartphone. Optical models are classically superior, but the electronic variants have been able to catch up strongly in recent years.

The image stabilizer compensates for the movements caused by humans. These can be fast movements, for example when running, but also calm, small movements that may be generated by breathing. An image stabilizer is therefore extremely suitable if moving subjects are to be captured and you are also in motion.

For example, if you want to photograph a busy beach on vacation, a sporting event attended locally or similar events, you should prefer a smartphone with image stabilizer. It ensures that even in constant, flowing movement, calm images are created that capture the motifs well. This also has an extremely positive effect on recorded videos.

Tip 3: Tripod

This applies to people with high demands on the stability of their photos. Tripods with smartphone mounts anchor the small devices just as firmly as a DSLM or DSLR, for example. This makes absolutely calm photos possible and brings many advantages (Link: https://feiersun.de/5-gruende-warum-du-mit-einem-stativ-bessere-bilder-machen-kannst). Even with very steady hands, it can be difficult to take the photo absolutely free of motion blur. Many travel tripods are relatively light and they can be folded or folded. This means that taking it with you on holiday is no problem.

High-end smartphones equipped with an optical zoom benefit even more. With a high zoom factor, it is impossible for humans to keep the device still. Even the smallest movements are enough to make the preview jump back and forth on the display due to the high zoom. A tripod provides the necessary peace and quiet to capture even more distant subjects absolutely perfectly.

This advantage grows the further away the subjects are – such as shy animals that are to be captured from a great distance.

Tip 4: Image editing

Really outstanding holiday photos on the Internet are practically never unedited. At the same time, it is difficult to edit the pictures taken with a smartphone directly on this device. The following defects are to be expected:

Small display, therefore difficult precision work
Limited performance even on high-end models
App offer relatively limited
Full effect of the image difficult for humans to grasp

It is better to use at least one notebook or even better a desktop PC. Alternatively, connecting a notebook to a large monitor is sufficient. On 27 inches and more and with 4K resolution, images can be edited much better. If desired, each pixel can be changed individually – and even complex work that goes beyond cropping and horizon straightening takes significantly less computing time.

In addition, the image is much easier to capture in its entirety on a large display. Scrolling to take a closer look at details is no longer necessary. On Windows and macOS, photo enthusiasts also have a gigantic collection of high-quality applications for image editing. Special devices for ambitious photographers enhance the experience even more, but they are very expensive to buy.

Tip 5: Night photography

Due to the relatively small sensors in smartphones, they have problems capturing enough light in poor lighting conditions – i.e. at dusk, at night or in closed rooms. Some tips help:

On the one hand, activating HDR mode can improve the contrast in the photos. On the other hand, HDR photos often have a slightly “supernatural” touch. Everyone has to decide for themselves whether this look is desired or not.
The shutter speed should be increased. During the day, a short snapshot is sufficient. At night, the smartphone should be given a few seconds to capture enough light. So even dark streets are illuminated (almost) as bright as day. Here, too, a tripod is worth its weight in gold.

Some smartphones are also equipped with special night modes. These are always small software tricks that sometimes work well and sometimes not. Our tip: just try it out!