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The most beautiful places to visit in Corsica

PatrickJullien
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The most beautiful places to visit in Corsica

The French island of Corsica is one of the most beautiful insider tips that the Mediterranean has to offer. Located between the French and Italian coasts, it is a bit overshadowed by Sardinia and Sicily, which are also visited by holidaymakers. Corsica not only has a variety of historical sights to offer, but also an impressive nature that attracts with numerous interesting excursion destinations. The island doesn’t look that big at first glance, but if you want to see the most beautiful destinations in Corsica , you should plan a few days to make sure you don’t miss anything.

1. Bonifacio

Apart from the capital, which of course should get its own attention, it is above all the medieval town of Bonifacio that you should have seen when visiting the island. Built on a headland, the city with its historic core still stands on the impressive limestone cliff. With 40 historical sights, all of which are under monument protection, you really get a deep insight into life on the island in the Middle Ages. If you can’t get enough of it, you could also board one of the excursion boats after a hike through the city. The view of the city from the sea offers a magic of its own.

2. Monte Cinto

Monte Cinto is the highest mountain on the island and rises around 2,700 meters in the massif of the same name. There are several ways to approach this impressive mountain on the island. In addition to guided tours, which usually do not lead to the top, the area has become the most popular destination in Corsica, especially for hikers and climbers. Those who dare the adventure of climbing can not only discover many historical elements along the way, but will also be rewarded with a view over the island that is absolutely unique. However, it is recommended that you have a bit of experience, as the area is not very developed for tourism and there is therefore little help for the adventure.

3. Ajaccio

Ajaccio, Corsica
The island’s capital Ajaccio, Image: Evannovostro / shutterstock

The capital of Corsica is entirely under the influence of the island’s most famous son: Napoleon. This is where he grew up and where he made his first political and military experiences. During his reign, he bestowed a lot of good things on Ajaccio and the city thanks him to this day. Apart from beautiful streets lined with palm trees, there are many historic buildings and museums to discover here. Actually, you are also everywhere in the shadow of Napoleon, who greets you with statues or pictures. If you want to experience this important part of Corsican history for yourself, you will also be rewarded with a beautiful harbour, from which many excursion boats to the rest of the island also start.

4. Fango Valley

The Fango Valley is a wonderful contrast to the mountain massifs that can be found especially in the heart of the island. Here, too, one or the other curious rock formation can be discovered, but all in all it is above all the green lung of the island. Waterfalls, rivers, small ponds and a not infrequently evergreen landscape entice you to take a long hike. There are very different holidaymakers who discover the magic of this region. In addition to hikers who might want to experience a little day of swimming in the heart of the island, there are also climbers who meet on the more rustic parts of the route and climb up the rocks to have a great view of the valley below.

5. Genoese Towers

One of the most impressive historical sights of the island extends over the entire coastal area. The so-called Genoese Towers were built in the Middle Ages by the protected state of Genoa in an attempt to combat the increasing plague of pirates on the coasts of Corsica. Many of the towers have been preserved to this day and have a view of each other. Of the once 150 towers, about 60 are still preserved today and around 35 are in a condition in which they can be visited. But the ruins are also worth a look, as they often lead to more remote parts of the island and can therefore be easily combined with a hike or climbing tour.

6. Corte

The third city that you should definitely have seen when visiting Corsica is Corte. In contrast to Ajaccio or Bonifacio, this is less about the historic core – which still exists – but about the pulsating life in the city. With the only university on the island, you are automatically an attraction for a young crowd and there is a lot to do here, especially at night. In addition, there are good restaurants and one or two sights from the eventful last centuries on the island.

7. Palombaggia Beach

Palombaggia Beach Corsica
Palombaggia beach, Image: Alexandre G. ROSA / shutterstock

The beach of Palombaggia has the reputation of being the most beautiful piece of sand on the coast of Corsica for a reason. Especially with the backdrop of the red rocks that stand everywhere on the edge, you have the opportunity to spend a great day at the sea and just enjoy the sun. In addition, the path is well developed in this direction and many tours lead to the beach. If you just want to relax for a day after the many hikes and discoveries, you will have the best opportunity to do so here and also have a long and great view of the sea

S’Illot – between beach fun and Bronze Age

PatrickJullien
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S’Illot – between beach fun and Bronze Age

The town of S’Illot on the east coast of Mallorca is remembered for its geographical location. The village of 2000 inhabitants is divided by the torrent “Torrent de Ca n’Amer”. Where it reaches the sea, a handsome bridge spans over it, which was only renewed in 2019. S’Illot is an urbanization that was built from 1959 especially for tourists. It is located exactly between the larger tourist magnets Cala Millor in the north and Porto Christo in the south. And always seems to be a bit in their shadow.

Hotels and apartments dominate the townscape today. In order to remain competitive, a lot has been invested in hotel renovations in recent years. The big plus of the town is the sandy beach Cala Moreia near the hotel – about 350 meters long and 50 meters wide. A little further south is Cala Morlanda with its sandy and rocky beach, which is often visited by divers. It is only 60 kilometres from S’Illot to Palma de Mallorca Airport and only 16 kilometres to the city of Manacor, which is well worth seeing, and has become famous for the “Pearls of Mallorca”.

S’Illot hit the headlines in the winter of 2018 due to an accident: the Ca n’Amer torrent became a flash flood, damaging the bridge and washing cars and rubbish into the sea. At that time, ten people were killed. The damage has since been repaired, and the reconstruction has upgraded S’Illot.

Excavation site of the “tower culture” at the entrance to the village

Holidaymakers who arrive in S’Illot via the Ma-2021 road are at the destination of a journey through time: they are the first to land… in the Bronze Age. Right at the entrance to the town, on Carrer Rosa del Vents, is the archaeological site “Talayotic Settlement of S’Illot” (Poblat talaiòtic de S’Illot). Visitors can walk over footbridges and bridges with display boards and learn that people of the so-called Talayotic culture lived in the tourist resort 3000 years ago. There are only ruins on the site, but you can learn how our ancestors built impressive dwellings, two-storey towers and village enclosures made of thick stones. The neighboring museum brings you this culture of the Balearic Islands even closer. In Sa Coma, which adjoins S’Illot to the north and is within walking distance, there is also an excavation site.

Watch lions, monkeys and giraffes in the car in the safari park

Castell Punta de n'Amer, Sa Coma
Castell Punta de n’Amer, Image: Andrew Buckin / shutterstock

If you’ve had enough of beach life under the umbrella in S’Illot, you can visit the safari park at Sa Coma to see wild animals. With a rental car or their own car, visitors drive through the 40-hectare “steppe” and observe giraffes, monkeys and lions – almost like in the wild. There are no cramped cages here, as unfortunately still in some zoos .

A great destination is also the protected peninsula of Punta n’Amer with deciduous forest north of Sa Coma, which holidaymakers can reach by rental bike or on foot. There are beautiful hiking trails, an observation tower with a museum and a restaurant with a great view. To the left, above Cala Millor, holidaymakers can see the beautiful country town of Son Servera and to the right to Cap d’es Pinar at the end of the Costa dels Pins. If the beach in S’Illot is too narrow for you, you can switch to the wider one in Sa Coma – where, according to tourists, “there is usually a little more going on”. A beach promenade connects the two tourist resorts. There, holidaymakers will find restaurants, boutiques, beach shops, souvenir shops and grocery stores.

Excursion to the Dragon’s Cave in Porto Cristo

Dragon's Cave Porto Cristo
The Dragon’s Cave in Porto Cristo, Image: Balate Dorin / shutterstock

A special excursion leads to a visit to the “Dragon’s Cave” (Coves del Drac) in neighboring Porto Cristo. This is a spectacular 1700-meter-long cave system with an underground lake where visitors take a small boat ride. More impressive, however, are the huge, well-lit stalactites and stalagmites. Some look like columns, but others look like artistically created sculptures. The highlight of the cave visit is a concert. Music is played on a boat in the lake, which glides picturesquely past the spectators. By the way, every Sunday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. there is a weekly market in Porto Christo – with fruit and vegetables, handicrafts, textiles and accessories. The market is located directly on the sea at the entrance to the marina

Marsaxlokk – colourful boats and turquoise blue sea on Malta’s east coast

PatrickJullien
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Marsaxlokk – colourful boats and turquoise blue sea on Malta’s east coast

The Maltese islands attract thousands of visitors from Europe and all over the world every year due to their guaranteed good weather, cultural highlights and deep blue bays. Many of them then spend their holidays in the vibrant capital Valletta or the seaside resorts in the western part of the island. However, just seven kilometres from the airport, on the south-east coast of the main island, there is a gem not to be missed on a trip to Malta: the picturesque fishing village of Marsaxlokk. Located on the bay of the same name, the town attracts visitors with its bright turquoise waters, brightly coloured fishing boats and the best fish restaurants in the whole country. Since there is only a manageable number of tourist accommodations in Marsaxlokk, the place is comparatively quiet and invites you to relax, stroll and enjoy.

The old town of Marsaxlokk

Despite its busy fishing port, Marsaxlokk is a manageable size and excellent to explore on foot. There is a lot to discover in the old town and with the exhausting heat, especially in summer, the next café with a cool iced coffee is never far away. A highlight of the old town of Marsaxlokk is the Marsaxlokk Church. It is dedicated to the Holy Madonna of Pompeii and was completed in 1897. The square in front of the church also marks the beginning of the promenade along the harbour basin with its countless fish restaurants. Also worth seeing is the fortress of St. Julian, built in 1610. Originally built to defend Malta against the Turks, it was then used by British troops as an ammunition depot during World War II. Today, Fort St. Julian is home to the Malta Aquaculture Research Center. The fort can only be visited on selected days.

The harbour and the colourful Luzzu boats

Marsaxlokk Church
On the road in Marsaxlokk, Image: cge2010 / shutterstock

Probably the most famous photo motif from Marsaxlokk are without a doubt the colorful Luzzu boats in the harbor of the city. The boats, mostly blue and with yellow and red stripes, float contemplatively on the clear and bright turquoise blue water. During a walk along the bay, the boats can be photographed from different sides. Every Sunday, visitors can also enjoy Marsaxlokk’s weekly fish market. In addition to the freshly caught seafood, there is also food and handicrafts to buy here, ideal for sampling some local delicacies or buying souvenirs. However, there is no shortage of shopping or dining options for the rest of the week, as the harbour promenade is lined with fish restaurants. Located at the end of the promenade, the specialty restaurant “Haber 16 by j&j” can even be seen on a restaurant show on Netflix.

The archaeological site of Tas-Silg

Not far from Marsaxlokk in a north-westerly direction is the archaeological site of Tas-Silg. It is located on the plateau of the same name and offers a magnificent view of the bays of Marsaxlokk and St. Thomas. Here, the foundation walls of a temple from the Tarxien period were discovered, as well as traces of a Phoenician Astarte’s temple were uncovered. The Byzantines also used the area and built a basilica in the already dilapidated facilities, which was then converted into a mosque. After a long oblivion, extensive excavation work began here in the 1960s, which provided essential insights into the past of the people on the Maltese islands. Not far from the excavation site is the Church of Our Lady, built in 1833. Since 1943, a Carmelite convent has moved in here again.

Swimming and cliff jumping in the St. Peters Pool

The St. Peters Pool, which is only a few minutes’ drive from Marsaxlokk, is one of the absolute insider tips of the locals in Malta. If you come on foot or by car, you can already enjoy a great view on the descent into the picturesque bay, while the approach from Marsaxlokk takes you over the deep blue waters of the Mediterranean Sea with one of the traditional Luzzu boats. In the St. Peters Pool, you can swim in the pleasantly warm water and jump into the sea from the surrounding cliffs. A small restaurant located directly on the way to the bay offers refreshments and snacks.

Müritz and the Mecklenburg Lake District – Retreat for nature lovers

PatrickJullien
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Müritz and the Mecklenburg Lake District – Retreat for nature lovers

Anyone who likes water and sees a little more in it than just a chemical compound of hydrogen and oxygen will rave about this landscape. The Müritz as the heart of the Mecklenburg Lake District – it is the epitome of a life on and with the water. Because there are plenty of them here. And those who have understood that water is the basis of our existence on earth are always drawn to the south of Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania. Because here nature presents itself in its originality. The shore zones of this lake district can be explored magnificently on foot, and if you want to try your hand as a leisure captain, you can rent a houseboat there. Either way, there are no limits to leisure activities on the Müritz. Müritz and the Mecklenburg Lake District are perfect for a holiday with your dog and the whole family.

1,117 lakes on 6,000 square kilometres

It is known from the Müritz that this is the largest German inland lake. But if you want to explore the entire region, you will be fascinated by other lakes. Together with the Strelitz Small Lake District, the Feldberg Lake District as well as Fleesensee, Plauersee, Tollensesee and the water landscapes around Goldberg-Sternberg and Feldberg, this is the most extensive lake district in the republic. So the Eldorado par excellence for water sports enthusiasts. To track down all the bodies of water in this region, it takes a lot of patience, because tourism managers claim to have counted no less than 1,117 lakes in Mecklenburg. And this on a total size of six thousand square kilometers. So anyone who speaks of the “land of a thousand lakes” tends to understate a certain amount there.

A nature park and the flair of the cities

Malchow Monastery Church, Mecklenburg Lake District
View of the monastery church in Malchow, Image: Bjoern Wylezich / shutterstock

The Mecklenburg Lake District with the Müritz is made for people who want to enjoy nature with all their senses and who are willing to be active on their holiday. If you prefer to live on land and do not opt for a holiday on a houseboat, you may be satisfied with the canoe. When a fresh wind is not blowing over the region, everyone can look forward to mild waters. The Müritz National Park is a true natural paradise. With a little luck, hikers can enjoy rare animals, and for cyclists there are paths and paths through a largely untouched landscape. If you love the flair of the small towns on the banks of the Müritz, you will get your money’s worth in Waren, Röbel, Plau am See or Malchow. And in the Müritzeum there is also an encounter with an interesting
Marine life.

The “Bear Sanctuary” at Lake Plau

But it is not only the small animals that have found their retreats on the shores of the Mecklenburg Lake District. If you want to come face to face with large and wild creatures, you should go to Stuer on Lake Plau. Brown bears live there in an outdoor enclosure, and in the so-called “bear sanctuary” holidaymakers can learn interesting facts about the life of these animals. The brown bears find ideal conditions there. People with a hunger for education will find some top-class museums in the towns of the Mecklenburg Lake District. Among other things, in the Rechlin Aviation Museum. There you can see fighter planes and models from the last hundred years. The facility is located on historic ground, as there was a Luftwaffe test site here during the years of the so-called “Third Reich”. In the meantime, the museum has become an interesting destination in Mecklenburg.

A place of remembrance for Schliemann

In Ankershagen, a museum pays tribute to the life of a treasure hunter. We are talking about Heinrich Schliemann, whose former parents’ house was converted into a museum a few years ago. It is located in an original 18th-century vicarage. The complex sees itself as a cultural memorial site of national importance. Where Heinrich Schliemann spent his young years, personal documents and diary entries of the archaeologist and autodidact can be seen. If you like to walk on historical paths, you will find some pretty photo motifs in Basedow. Lake Malchin is the proud backdrop of a castle built on the ruins of a 13th-century castle. The surrounding impressive park was the idea of the royal Prussian garden artist Peter Joseph Lenné. The castle was once the residence of the noble Hahn family.

A monastic town on Lake Kummerow

The walls of the monastery town of Dargun at the northern tip of Lake Kummerow are mighty. It was the monks of the Cistercian order who lived here several centuries ago and converted the huge complex into a castle after the Reformation. Since it was largely destroyed in the Second World War, the site has been restored for many years. The former monastery is already one of the most important venues in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania. A second monastery in the Mecklenburg Lake District is filled with life. In Dobbertin near Goldberg in the district of Ludwigslust-Parchim, people with mental disabilities and mental illnesses are dedicated today. This was once a Benedictine nunnery and a scene of witch burnings in the Middle Ages.

Places for families with their children

The Mecklenburg Lake District, with its abundance of natural beauty and historic buildings, is an ideal holiday destination for families with children. Because all this is a gigantic adventure playground for young and old. The landscape is unmistakable and is just as suitable for long hikes in the forests as it is for impressive bike tours and holidays on or by the water. It is a region with forests and meadows, and if you come on a sunny autumn day, you can look forward to a touch of the legendary “Indian Summer” on the Müritz. Many a holidaymaker raves about the silence at one of the countless small and large lakes. It is a region where history and culture meet in a pleasant way.

Jesolo is always worth a visit

PatrickJullien
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Jesolo is always worth a visit

The municipality of Jesolo is located on the Venetian coast of the Adriatic Sea. Particularly well-known among holidaymakers is the Lido di Jesolo, which stretches from west to east as a sandy coast with a length of 15 km. The beach has a promenade along which various hotels and apartments are arranged. The beaches from Jesolo to Grado are really beautiful. You know the long sandy beaches and the beach cabins that can be rented on a daily basis and the colorfully striped lifeguard turrets of the Salvatori, as well as the shell mountains and the legendary sand sculptures of Jesolo.

From Central Europe you can reach Jesolo easily and relaxed by train, car or bus. The nearest airport is in Venice. From there, there is an express service that takes travelers to Jesolo. The municipality of Jesolo borders Cavallino-Treporti to the west. Thanks to the newly expanded cycle path system, which is also illuminated at night, the municipality is also easy and easy to reach from there. The surrounding area of Jesolo is suitable for extended bike tours in the surrounding canals.

A guest in Jesolo

Lighthouse of Jesolo
Lighthouse of Jesolo, Image: Yuriy Biryukov / shutterstock

Jesolo has more to offer than meets the eye. The beautiful old town and the beautiful and long beach promenade invite you to stroll. Maybe you can enjoy an aperitivo or a cappuccino in one of the numerous bars to enjoy the Italian flair. Connoisseurs of good food will also get their money’s worth in Jesolo. Pizza, pasta, but also various fish specialties are always a culinary highlight on every trip to Italy. In Jesolo there are numerous restaurants in all price categories. There is certainly something for everyone.

The central piazza in Jesolo is just a few minutes from the beach. There are tourists, but also locals all year round, especially in the summer months, to enjoy the flair. The location is very suitable for watching the hustle and bustle on the square and treating yourself to an espresso or an “aperitivo” on the side. The shopping opportunities in Jesolo are also not to be sneezed at. There are many shops and also some noble boutiques. In the summer months, the promenade is open from early morning until late in the evening. There is certainly something for everyone.

But in Jesolo there is also a life away from the hustle and bustle of the beach. For example, art exhibitions are often held in Jesolo, the Museo Storico Militare is an exhibition of military history since Roman times and the golf course is considered beginner-friendly and is becoming increasingly popular. In addition, it is always very well maintained. Every golfer will certainly feel comfortable on the course.

A visit to the antique market on Piazza dei Breschia is also definitely an experience. How about an aperitif followed by a stroll around the market? Maybe there will be one or the other piece that you can take home as a souvenir.

Good location for visiting the lagoon city

Cathedral of San Simeone Piccolo, Venice
Cathedral of San Simeone Piccolo in Venice, Image: Yasonya / shutterstock

Another advantage of a stay in Jesolo is the local proximity to Venice. From Punta Sabbioni, a “vaporetto” runs at regular intervals, with which you can cross to the lagoon city. Visiting the lagoon city is certainly one of the highlights of a holiday in Jesolo. In addition, you can also visit the towns of Murano and Burano, the island with the colorful houses. Both are definitely an experience for a day trip, highly recommended.

Cycling holidays in Jesolo

Due to its location, Jesolo is very suitable for cyclists. The cycling network has been enormously improved and expanded in recent years. There are plenty of bike rentals in Jesolo. Whether e-bike, road bike or gravel bike, tourists are offered an enormous range of options. But the legendary “Pedalos” can also be found there. With the vehicles on 4 wheels, which can accommodate up to 4 people, you can drive along the seafront. There is also the possibility of going to the nearby pine forests of Cavallino – Treporti. 14 cycling routes for beginners and endurance athletes are available.

Tenerife – Hiking and relaxing in the quiet southwest

PatrickJullien
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Tenerife – Hiking and relaxing in the quiet southwest

A pleasant and mild climate all year round means that Tenerife has established itself as one of the most popular holiday destinations for German tourists. However, the largest island of the Canary Islands offers holidaymakers much more than just lounging in a hotel. Tenerife has so much to offer that renting a car to explore the island is recommended. But even travelers without a driver’s license can discover exciting and wonderful places away from mass tourism thanks to a well-developed public transport network.

Someone who is particularly familiar with the Canary Island is C. Jörg Metzner. The Cologne-based author spends several weeks a year in Tenerife and searches for new hiking trails, interesting leisure activities and restaurants every time he visits.

Tenerife, Teide
View of Mount Teide, Image: Mikadun / shutterstock

He has written down his experiences and tips in the travel and hiking guide “Tenerife – Playa San Juan and the Southwest”. We are pleased that Mr. Metzner took the time for a short interview.

On none of my vacations so far have I driven more kilometers than in Tenerife. What makes this island so appealing?
The attraction lies on the one hand in the three-dimensionality of the island and on the other hand in the multitude of different attractions, which, however, are spread over this large island. Hence the kilometers.

In Tenerife , depending on the season, you can go sledding in the morning, swim in the snow and in the afternoon in the sea.

Travel Guide Tenerife – Playa San Juan and the Southwest
Travel Guide Tenerife – Playa San Juan and the Southwest by Jörg Metzner

In your guidebook, you will focus in particular on Playa San Juan and the southwest of Tenerife. Which accommodation do you prefer during your stays? Classic in a hotel or rather as a self-catering apartment in a holiday apartment?

I myself prefer the holiday apartment because I am more flexible as a self-caterer. On the other hand, more initiative is required there. Holiday apartments are less often chosen as a domicile in summer because families with children tend to go on holiday in summer. Then the hotels are in demand, with all-inclusive, animation and supervised events. Holiday apartments are more in demand over the winter. Then it is not so much the families with children who are on the road, but the best agers, i.e. the 50+ generation, mostly in pairs. They are more likely to go to an apartment.

As a part-time Tinerfeño, you will experience the development of tourism in Tenerife up close. How has tourism developed here in the last ten years?

On Tenerife, the authorities have been able to protect themselves somewhat from mass developments, such as those on Mallorca , by only allowing hotels with at least a minimum number of hotels. 4 stars may be built and 3 star hotels must be upgraded. Compared to other holiday islands, a high hotel standard apparently protects against unpleasantly escalating mass tourism.

In fact, increasing tourism is noticeable through more frequent traffic jams, longer queues. Tourism is increasing, but I have never found this unpleasant at any time of the year. Tenerife is big enough to avoid individually.

Which travel time can you particularly recommend to our readers?

Tenerife
analogicus / Pixabay

My favorite is winter, because then the climate difference between home and vacation destination is extreme. On the other hand, you see few young people and families in winter. It is interesting that even in summer the climate in Tenerife is pleasant and bearable. For example, I find the south of France hot and sometimes humid in summer. I don’t have that feeling in Tenerife . In the summer of 2018, I voluntarily extended my vacation by one week because the climate in Tenerife was much more circulatory than in Germany.

If you visit a typical fish restaurant in Tenerife for the first time, you might quickly be overwhelmed by the large selection at the counter and the ordering of the desired dish due to a possible language barrier. Which fish can you recommend and what should the restaurant guest consider when ordering.

The right fish restaurants near the harbour catch the fish fresh every day. They eat what is on the table or what has just been caught. The waiters are trained, show the catch beforehand and are happy to advise. In the kitchen, the fish is expertly prepared. I would always recommend that when ordering fillets, you should also clearly point out that the fish should be boneless, in Spanish “sin espinas”, perhaps accompanied by the friendly word “por favor” for “please”. If it was boneless, the waiter is also happy about a “gracias” for “thank you”.

What is your personal insider tip in Tenerife? What do you think you should definitely visit?

I am mainly in the southwest of the island, where the sun shines. If an insider tip is a place that is comparatively less touristy, then I recommend a visit to Playa San Juan on the west coast. There is not a single hotel there, but a nice beach, many restaurants and a little fishing village atmosphere.

You should definitely visit the Teide with the Cañadas. Here you move in an extremely strange, unreal world at 2000 meters. An impression that you should definitely take home with you.

Mr. Metzner, thank you for the interview.

Info:

The travel guide “Tenerife – Playa San Juan and the Southwest” can be ordered under the ISBN number 9781790936762 and as an e-book on Amazon .

Casino Resorts: It Doesn’t Always Have to Be Las Vegas

PatrickJullien
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Casino Resorts: It Doesn’t Always Have to Be Las Vegas

Hand on heart, who doesn’t immediately think of the neon metropolis of Las Vegas in the state of Nevada when they hear the term casino resort? But even beyond “Sin City”, there are plenty of exciting destinations for you, combining luxurious surroundings, an extensive entertainment programme and gambling.

Although classic resorts are hotel complexes that offer their guests everything they need without having to leave them, there are entire cities, especially in Europe, that have developed into holiday resorts.

Hardly any casino has a more sophisticated fame than the casino in Monte Carlo, which opened in 1854 and has been considered a playground for the rich and famous since the last century. An associated concert hall and gastronomy, opulent architecture by the creator of the Paris Opera and illustrious guests make the casino an experience. Several luxury hotels can be found just a few steps away, and the palm-fringed Riviera is practically on the doorstep. If you are a novice, however, you should familiarize yourself with the games beforehand, for example in reputable online casinos with the best payouts.

Not far behind the French border, Nice offers all the amenities of a casino resort and a cultural offer that does not have to hide behind Monte Carlo. Turquoise blue water, white beaches, theatres, top-class gastronomy and museums of all kinds offer you a change from a visit to the casino. While Monte Carlo is known as the filming location for several adventures of the gambling super agent James Bond, Nice played a leading role in Hitchcock’s classic “Over the Rooftops of Nice” in 1955 with Cary Grant and the future Monegasque princess Grace Kelly.

Even closer is the Kurhaus Baden-Baden , a German resort with one of the most traditional casinos in the world. Hollywood star Marlene Dietrich, who had sat down at the gaming tables here just like Nobel Prize winners and crowned heads, even described the house as the most beautiful casino in the world. Since 2021, Baden-Baden has even been one of eleven health resorts in seven European countries that have been added to the UNESCO World Heritage List as “Great Spa Towns of Europe”.

If you’re looking to go far, you’ll also find a wide range of casino resorts for every type of holiday. Nature lovers, but also honeymooners, are in the right place at Crocs Resort in Costa Rica . Saying “I do” on the beach, lying by the pool or under a waterfall, exploring the jungle with an expert guide or riding along the Pacific shore on horseback are just a few of the most popular leisure activities. Costa Rica is also a family paradise, so parents and their children will have just as much fun here as singles and couples.

If you prefer to see elephants, giraffes and lions instead of turtles, whales, sloths and ocelots, you will find the opportunity to combine your casino holiday with a photo safari at the “Sun City” in South Africa . But golf and tennis fans also get their money’s worth here. South Africa has a wide range of world-class golf courses, and the climate allows for outdoor sports almost all year round.

Bahamas Paradise Island
Paradise Island with the Atlantis Resort in the background, Nassau, Bahamas, Image: Pola Damonte /shutterstock

The name Paradise almost says it all. On the Bahamas island, the “Atlantis Resort” is the largest casino in the Caribbean. As befits an island resort, the water is one of the main attractions. A huge water park offers fun for young and old, and eleven pools invite you to take a quieter dip or laze on a deck chair. Beach, waterfalls and caves, snorkeling and boat trips leave no room for boredom. Animal lovers can experience manta rays, sharks, turtles and dolphins.

If you prefer to experience the excitement of a vibrant metropolis instead of pure nature, you won’t be disappointed by a visit to the “Marina Bay Sands” in Singapore . Built according to Feng Shui principles, the building consists of three 194-metre-high towers reminiscent of stacks of cards, which are connected by a roof garden, and has now become the landmark of the city-state. The Sky Park, as the roof garden is officially called, allows you to enjoy a panoramic view of the entire city skyline. A public observation deck is also accessible to non-hotel guests, and the lush gardens, a jogging track, and a lofty infinity pool have made the Sky-Park one of Singapore’s top attractions. Light shows, a “Museum of Wonders” shaped like a lotus flower and a futuristic-looking pedestrian bridge modelled on a double helix make the trip to the “Marina Bay Sands” an unforgettable experience.

The 155,000-square-foot complex is considered one of the most luxurious casino resorts in the world. But there is much more in the three towers. Hotel rooms and suites, conference halls, theatres, museums, event plazas, restaurants and shops and the view of the ocean, ensure that no wish remains unfulfilled.

On the island of Macau , you can choose between two of the largest casinos in the world. The island itself is now part of China again, but the traces of the centuries-long Portuguese colonial era can still be felt, which adds to Macau’s appeal. “The Venetian Macau” is anything but typically Chinese. The casino resort, which opened in 2007, is the second largest casino in the world with 51,000 square meters of gaming space. As its name suggests, it offers a touch of Venice in the Far East, and you can have fun with a gondola ride through man-made lagoons in between. Concerts and sporting events are also on the program of the resort, which offers its guests 2905 suites.

Hip and modern instead of European-nostalgic is the place to be in the nearby “City of Dreams” in Macau. With 39,000 square meters of gaming space, it is the third largest casino in the world. Luxury shops in the resort, a video aquarium, fountains and a dancing water theater are reminiscent of the luxury palaces of Las Vegas, combined with an Asian flair. The number of visitors confirms the success. Even if the desert city in Nevada is the most famous gambling metropolis, there are now resorts for every requirement and every taste, and internationally.

The most beautiful destinations in Scotland

PatrickJullien
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The most beautiful destinations in Scotland

For many people, Scotland has become an absolute destination of longing. Unbelievable expanses in the Highlands, beautiful castles and traces of the Middle Ages, a fascinating history in general and, last but not least, a very special culture on the British Isles have triggered a small hype about the country at the tip of Great Britain. Whether it’s a journey with your own car through the endless expanses of Scotland or a targeted trip to the most beautiful attractions – a visit to the country has a lot of potential. What are the most beautiful Scottish destinations that you should have seen?

1. The Obvious Destination: Edinburgh

Old Town Edinburgh
The Old Town of Edinburgh, Image: f11photo / shutterstock

The Scottish capital Edinburgh is rightly the most visited destination in Scotland. Hardly any other city testifies so much to the changing history of the country. From traces of the Celts to medieval fortresses to popular little bar districts, you can discover everything you would expect in a Scottish city. The center is, of course, the huge castle on its mountain, which is so closely connected to British history. In addition to the many historical sights, you should also take the opportunity to take a deep look at Scottish culture. A visit to the pub should be obligatory, as should a visit to the snack bar to try out the fried specialties. At night, Edinburgh even develops into a small party stronghold. So there are many things to discover here that you wouldn’t necessarily associate with Scotland .

2. The Isle of Skye

Skye, Scotland
The Scottish island of Skye offers fantastic natural landscapes, Image: EyesTravelling / shutterstock

Scotland includes a large number of small and large islands, all of which have their own history. Some of them are said to have been settled by humans thousands of years ago, others are almost untouched and offer a deep insight into Scottish nature. The Isle of Syke offers both. The Isle of Skye not only has a variety of rugged coastlines, beautiful hiking trails and unspoilt nature, but also many historical features that you won’t see anywhere else in Scotland. So if you have the opportunity to visit the island connected by a land bridge, you should not miss this special place in Scotland.

3. The Scottish Highlands

There is no one place you should have seen in the Scottish Highlands. The Highlands themselves are the attraction. Sometimes you can drive here for hours by car and not find another soul. Shortly afterwards, village follows village and you have the opportunity to enjoy the time in quaint pubs with other Scots and enjoy a bit of life in the northernmost country of the British Isles. Aside from the nature itself being worth a visit, the Highlands are lined with many other must-see places. Castles and towers, old fortresses and ruins, small villages on the many lakes that are located in the Highlands. In addition to being able to explore this part of Scotland by car, there are also many guided tours that visit the most interesting parts of the Highlands by bus. Hikes and a tour by bike are also not a problem. So it’s no wonder that the Highlands are still exemplary for Scotland today – after all, they are part of the culture and self-image of the Scots.

4. Stirling

While Edinburgh stands for the mixture of times and combines the modernity of Scotland with history, Stirling remains almost unchanged to this day. If you take a walk through the old town here, you will walk on streets at every step, which were probably built 1,000 years ago and have since taken part in a considerable part of Scotland’s history. Especially in connection with the Scottish national hero William Wallace, the city plays a very special role. Not only was the conquest of the city’s fortress an important milestone on the way to his personal fame, but the impressive monument in his name, visible from afar in the landscape, is also a testimony to this. If you want to experience the Scottish history of the Middle Ages, you will not only find the right backdrop in Stirling, but also a variety of museums. Precisely because the city can be reached from Edinburgh in about 1 1/2 hours, it is a great day trip during the trip to Scotland and an addition to the possibilities that the capital offers for travelers.

5. Eilean Donan Castle

Actually, Eilean Donan Castle is only a representative of the many medieval castles that can be found in Scotland. This specimen has served as the backdrop for a variety of Hollywood films over time and offers a glimpse into the seclusion but also the defensiveness that the fortresses of the clans represented in the Middle Ages. The beautiful castle can be visited in its entirety today. At the same time, however, there are a large number of other castles and converted defensive towers that have not only served as the ancestral seat of families for many centuries, but are now available to the public and tourists for visits. There are corresponding offshoots in every part of Scotland and you should always find out which castles you can visit in your own area and where to visit the next fortress from the Middle Ages.

10 best excursions in Mallorca that you can’t miss

PatrickJullien
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10 best excursions in Mallorca that you can’t miss

What if I told you that there are more excursions in Mallorca than you can imagine?

Certainly, when you think of Mallorca, you think of beaches of fine sand, of the turquoise waters of the Mediterranean, of long days and slow sunsets, of the intense smells of a booming culinary culture that floods the narrow streets of the capital, right?

Mallorca is that and much more! There are many things to see and do in Mallorca.

Mallorca is not only the largest island of the Balearic Islands, it is also the largest in Spain (and the seventh largest in the Mediterranean).

Deep coves, stunning caves, capes, challenging hiking trails in the Sierra de Tramontana, catamaran and Sóller train tours, day trips and trips to neighboring islands.

Do you dare to explore the island?

In this post I have made a list of where I think they are the 10 best excursions in Mallorca. Let’s get started!

Best excursions in Mallorca

1. Excursion to the Caves of Drach

Dragon's Cave Porto Cristo
The Dragon’s Cave in Porto Cristo, Image: Balate Dorin / shutterstock

The 25-meter-deep cave is located on the outskirts of Porto Cristo, east of the island, the 1,200-meter-long hiking trails that run through the Caves of Drach will make you oscillate between the reality of what you see and the fantasy of legends.

In his story, a dragon who used the hiding caves (hence the name) is mixed with stories of pirates and buccaneers who hid their treasures in their depths.

In any case, the Caves of Drach offer a unique natural spectacle: underground rivers, stalactites and stalagmites that let your imagination run wild, a microclimate that stays close to 20 degrees all year round and a classical music concert on Lake Martel.

Without a doubt, one of the best excursions in Mallorca!

To get there from Palma, you can take bus line 401 from the Intermodal to Majorica (if you want to go directly to the caves) or to the Porto Cristo bus station. If you have a car, all you have to do is take the MA15 eastbound for an hour.

2. Train from Sóller, one of the best excursions in Mallorca

Tram, Soller
Old tram in Soller, Image: Karol Kozlowski / shutterstock

Do you know the expression that the most important thing is the journey, not the destination?

In Mallorca, this phrase takes on a literal meaning when you take the traditional Sóller train, which runs 6 times a day from Palma train station (in high season; in low season the frequency is reduced), meters from Plaza España and an hour later to the town of Sóller.

On its rattling route, which passes through bridges, viewpoints, tunnels and viaducts, it crosses the pine forests of the Buñola road to enter (or rather, climb) the heart of the Sierra de Tramontana and its centenary olive groves, before descending down the slope of Sóller, full of orange and lemon trees, in the north of the island.

This is one of the best excursions in Mallorca with children for the day, since from Sóller you can take the only tram line on the island to Puerto del Sóller, where you can enjoy a quiet day at the beach before starting the return the same way you arrived.

3. Excursion to Cala del Moro, Cala S’Almunia and Ses Covetes

If the city beach of Puerto de Sóller has made you want more, you can take a day trip in Mallorca: get to know Caló des Moro.

An unspoilt cove of white sand and rocks, bathed by a sea of intense turquoise, protected by two rock walls covered with pine trees.

The best thing, especially in high season, is to arrive early, as the bay is narrow and usually crowded.

In any case, just 200 meters from there is Cala S’Almunia, a small group of old jetties with the back to a series of local houses from which you can bathe in the tranquility of the Mediterranean.

Finally, 20 kilometers away is the extensive sandy beach of Ses Covetes, at the end of which there is a slightly less crowded nudist cove.

4. Excursion to Cape Formentor

Cape Formentor is located on the northern tip of the island and is home to some of the most beautiful views, especially at sunset.

In addition to Formentor beach, the Calas (such as the Murta or the Figuera) and the numerous hiking trails (such as the one that leads from the Mirador Es Colomer to the watchtower of Albercuix), a visit to the cape would be incomplete without visiting the famous Formentor lighthouse, the entrance to which is free.

Getting to the Cape, if at all, can be challenging. Except in special cases and for cyclists and hikers, the Consell de Mallorca usually imposes restrictions during the summer season, according to which only authorized vehicles and resident vehicles can circulate on the Formentor road.

5. Bellver Castle in Palma de Mallorca

Bellver Castle, built by King James II about seven hundred years ago, is located on the slope of a 112-meter-high mountain, about 3 kilometers from the Mallorcan capital.

This gives you a panoramic view of the city and its bay, as well as the Sierra de Tramontana and the Llano de Mallorca.

If you don’t opt for the view, you might be interested in the oddity of Gothic architecture and its circular layout or history.

In addition to serving as a residence for kings and rulers, it also functioned as a prison during the War of Succession and during the Spanish Civil War.

6. Deltas Nature Reserve, another of the best excursions in Mallorca

One of the most popular excursions from Palma de Mallorca among those who want to add a pinch of adrenaline to their trip is the jet ski tour to the Deltas Nature Reserve, which runs between high cliffs to reach hidden coves, natural pools and fine sandy beaches.

In addition, most operators that offer this excursion offer the possibility of snorkeling in one of the coves (generally in Cala Vella).

7. Excursions to Formentera from Mallorca

Cala Saona, Formentera
Cala Saona beach in Formentera, Image: Sergio TB / shutterstock

Formentera is the most virgin, smallest and isolated of the Balearic Islands (if we don’t count Cabrera, it is of course a national park).

Just so you can imagine, the island doesn’t even have an airport, so it can only be reached by ferry, which takes about 4 hours from Palma de Mallorca.

In Formentera you will find some of the most perfect beaches in the Mediterranean.

Ideally, you should hire a full-day excursion from Mallorca and enjoy the island to the fullest.

Although all the beaches are beautiful, I recommend that you do not overlook the beaches of Ses Illetes, Llevant and Cala Saona.

8. Catamaran trip along the coast of Mallorca

Just as the Sóller train takes you to explore the green and mountainous heart of the island, a catamaran trip is the perfect way to experience Mallorca’s more than 500 kilometers of coastline.

These trips can depart from Palma, Puerto de Pollensa (near Cabo de Formentor), Cala Ratjada and Puerto de Alcudia, and almost always include the opportunity to snorkel and visit coves, beaches and sea caves such as the Blue Cave of Cabrera.

9. Hiking through the Pareis torrent

The quantity (and quality) of hiking trails you can do in Mallorca are varied, but I can’t help but mention one of the best: the Torrente de Pareis in the Sierra de Tramontana.

This path of 7 kilometres, of medium to high intensity and of 6 hours duration, starts at its highest point (630 metres) in Escorca and from there descends the Torrente de Lluc, through a forest, to the confluence with the Torrente de Es Gorg Blau.

From here, the path leads through the ravine, between high stone walls, to the end of the path, in Sa Calobra.

Before you go: remember that it is a complicated path, so it is not advisable to do it with children under 10 years old.

In addition to proper footwear and a good amount of drinking water, you should consult with the locals about the conditions of the gorge, as it becomes impassable during the rainy season (at least 15 days must pass since the last rains to make it accessible).

10. Dolphin watching in Mallorca

Another excursion in Mallorca, ideal for the family, is dolphin watching.

It’s only been a few years since this tour was organized in Mallorca, but it’s quickly become one of the most popular.

The reason? Okay, the dolphins. But also the protectionist approach of the tours (it is forbidden to swim with the dolphins) and the possibility of seeing the sunrise over the Mediterranean Sea.

As you can see, Mallorca is an island that has a lot to offer you. It’s up to you to dare to explore its coves and mountains, its caves and its paths and, in short, leave the retraced path.

If you want to help me complete the list of the 10 best excursions in Mallorca, add yours in the comments!

The 5 largest German tour operators

PatrickJullien
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The 5 largest German tour operators

When planning their vacation, many tourists like to resort to the offers of classic tour operators. If you book a package tour, you don’t have to worry about anything. From the train to the flight to the hotel transfer – the entire trip is thoroughly organized. Experience reports from all tour operators will help you find the right provider. But who are the largest travel companies in Germany? Below we have listed the five largest tour operators for you:

1. TUI Germany

TUI (Touristik Union International) has been the undisputed number one among the largest tour operators in Germany for many years.

TUI, or rather its predecessor company Preussag, was founded in 1923. Once a steel and trading company, the company developed into a travel company, mainly through its investments in ship and aircraft construction.

From 1997 onwards, Preussag became one of the largest service companies in the leisure industry worldwide through the takeover of the shipping and logistics group Hapag-Lloyd. Later, TUI AG and TUI Travel Plc merged to form the TUI Group, which still exists today.

In the travel sector, TUI Deutschland GmbH is the executing company when it comes to package holiday offers, holiday flights and cruises. The company owns its own airline, operates cruise ships and holiday resorts in the most popular holiday destinations worldwide.

The TUI Group also includes the travel brands L’TUR, Boomerang-Reisen, 1-2-FLY, airtours, Gebeco, OFT REISEN, berge&meer, OX-TOURS and Viverde.

In addition to the online booking business, TUI operates around 1,800 brick-and-mortar travel agencies throughout Europe.

Before the pandemic, around 30 million people made use of TUI’s holiday offers every year, which brought the large group annual sales of around 6.6 billion euros. Since 2020, as with all travel providers, sales have declined somewhat.

2. REWE Group GmbH – DER Touristik and ITS Reisen

For many years, Thomas Cook Reisen took second place among the most successful travel providers in Germany. The company founder of the same name is still considered the inventor of the package tour (first offered for Egypt in 1869). In 2019, the group had to file for bankruptcy. The reason was the bankruptcy of the British umbrella company.

The German REWE Group became part of the company, which used it to expand its travel business. The Rewe Group is a German retail group based in Cologne. In addition to food retailing, the tourism sector has become the second most important division of the large group.

Package tours, flights, round trips, hotel stays, wellness trips and cruises are offered partly under the name REWE-Reisen (mainly via supermarket brochures and online). In addition, the well-known travel companies DER Touristik and ITS Reisen belong to the REWE Group. DER Touristik also includes such well-known names as DERTOUR, Meier’s Weltreisen, ADAC Reisen, Tjaereborg and Jahn Reisen.

Before 2020, sales in the travel sector were 4 to 5 billion euros annually.

3. FTI Group

The FTI Group (formerly Frosch Touristik GmbH) is a travel company founded in 1983 and headquartered in Munich. Initially, the FTI Group’s offer focused on language trips and later on trips to Mediterranean regions.

In the meantime, the FTI Group also offers worldwide package or modular tours, city trips, cruises and last-minute trips. Another focus is rental car brokerage. In addition, the FTI Group is behind the well-known travel channel sonnenklar.tv.

Other travel companies of the group are 5vorFlug, the online travel portal fly.de and the language tour operator LAL Sprachreisen.

The company normally has an annual turnover of around 4 billion euros.

Hint: On Monday, 3 June, the FTI Group filed for bankruptcy. If you have any questions, you can find more information in the daily press. FTI has also set up an information page: https://www.fti-group.com/de/insolvenz

4. Aida Cruises

AidaSol
On the road with the Aidasol, Image: Bjoern Wylezich / shutterstock

Aida Cruises is the cruise division of the British cruise company Carnival Corporation & plc, which is based in Genoa , Italy, and is specially tailored to the German market.

The company’s fleet includes the ships AIDAprima, AIDAstella, AIDAmar, AIDAblu, AIDAluna and AIDAsol.
The fleet’s trademark is the kissing lips with the four-color AIDA lettering. Cruises and club cruises are offered on the Mediterranean and in worldwide waters.

The ships are owned by the subsidiary Costa Crociere, with Carnival Maritime GmbH in Hamburg managing and organising fleet operations. The company also owns the cruise companies Costa Crociere and Costa Asia.

The company has a turnover of around 2 billion euros annually under good travel conditions and, according to its own information, is the market leader in cruises in Germany.

5. Alltours

Alltours Flugreisen GmbH is a German tour operator based in Düsseldorf. The Alltours group of companies also includes the Alltours-X and Byebye divisions. Since the end of Thomas Cook, Alltours has risen to become the fifth largest tour operator in Germany.

Alltours owns or has a significant stake in a number of hotels in the Mediterranean region. The company operates over 35 of its own large holiday resorts in Spain and Greece.

Today, the travel portal offers long-distance trips to exotic countries in addition to Mediterranean tours. In addition to the classic package tours, Alltours operates the pure rental of hotel rooms and holiday trips with self-arrival. In addition, the group also rents out entire holiday apartments or apartments in the company’s own holiday resorts.

Alltours is especially popular with families with children. The holiday resorts and hotels have received several awards for their child-friendliness.

Before the pandemic, sales were around 1.5 billion euros per year.

 

Article updated on 05 June 2024

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