All about travel

A journey along the coast of Mallorca

PatrickJullien

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12. June 2022

The interior of Mallorca offers many attractions, but if you want to be honest, the main attraction for most tourists who visit the island is none other than taking one bath after another on the paradisiacal Mallorcan coast. No wonder: Of the 550 kilometres of coastline, 125 kilometres are accounted for by 348 beaches and bays of all types and conditions. Among them, the coves are the jewels in the crown: small, intimate, many of them wild, hidden… For this reason, exploring the coast in summer to discover them as if they were gems can become the most pleasant adventure.

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Discover the best coves in Mallorca

Cala Gran beach in Cala D'or — Cala Gran in Cala D’or, Image: Anna Lurye / shutterstock

Some of the most impressive coves on the island are located in the resorts of Cala Mondragó, Cala d’Or and Cala Sant Vicenç – resorts with beautiful beaches. You won’t be able to experience the tranquility of being alone in nature here, but you’ll see homes, hotels, and all kinds of services in close proximity to the water – a convenient option to consider if you live nearby. The fantastic sandy beaches of Cala d’Or in the southeast of the island are a convenient choice for those staying in this popular resort town with its marina and lively nightlife.

About 6 km away, which can be traveled by tourist train from Cala d’Or, are Cala Mondragó and Cala S’Amarador, two beautiful beaches surrounded by the pine forests of the Mondragó Natural Park, which are excellent for walks in the surrounding area. However, the bays are located in a very touristy area and are usually very crowded. There are some beach bars and restaurants right on the beach, as well as hotels in the area. Another attractive option, 20 kilometres from Cala d’Or, is Cala Figuera, a curious Y-shaped sea cove that houses a traditional fishing port. The most remarkable thing about this cove is not so much the bathing area, but the fishermen’s cottages by the water, where the llaüts, small fishing boats typical of the Balearic Islands , are always stranded.

In the northwest of the island, near Pollensa, is the small resort of Cala Sant Vicenç. With a variety of accommodation and services right on the beach, the place has retained its old, traditional village charm, and its three beaches with crystal clear waters have the impressive landscape of the Tramuntana mountains as a backdrop.

Sa Calobra, Cala del Moro, Cala S’Almonia… hidden gems in Mallorca.

A big part of the charm of the following coves is their difficult access, which unfortunately does not always mean that they are not crowded. Sheltered between cliffs and rocks, they are as pleasant to swim in as they are to reach. In Sa Calobra, in the northwest of Mallorca, there are two small beaches wedged between rocks and separated by the Torrent de Pareis, a ravine through which a torrent flows. To get there, the first thing you have to do is turn off the main road of the Tramuntana mountains and take the diabolical MA-2141, full of curves and chasms. From the first bay, where you can park, you can only reach the second – larger – bay via a kilometre-long path that leads through a narrow tunnel. Adventure is guaranteed!

Cala del Moro, tucked away between two steep cliffs in the southeast of the island, was one of Mallorca’s best-kept secrets until word got around. For this reason, this narrow cove surrounded by vegetation is very popular in summer, even if access via a dirt path that goes down the cliffs is difficult. Just 9 kilometres away is Cala S’Almonia, which is similarly laid out, but less crowded and even wilder, and is great for snorkelling in the calm, crystal clear waters. One of the attractions is the rock trampolines in the cliffs. To get there, you have to walk about 200 meters up a steep staircase.

Cala Mitjana, Cala Varques and Cala Castell: unspoilt coves to escape the world

Cala Varques, Majorca — Cala Varques, Image: Konstantin Tronin / shutterstock

For those of you who prefer to travel into the wilderness and forget about everything, a visit to three of the most pristine and pristine bays on the island is recommended. In Cala Mitjana, located on the northwest coast in the Natural Park of the Llevant Peninsula, you will find no other proof of civilization than your car parked next to it. Surrounded by wild vegetation and exposed to the winds and waves of the open sea, this is not a beach for families, but for adventurers and locals.

To the southeast, despite its proximity to the tourist resorts of Porto Cristo and Porto Colom, is Cala Varques, one of the most unspoilt coves in Mallorca, as it is slow to access: from the car park it is a 15-minute walk through pine groves. This means that surrounded by low cliffs, this sandy beach exudes a “hippie” vibe frequented by artisans, jewelry sellers, nudists, and locals.

Finally, in the northwest of Mallorca, Cala Castell stands out, a wild cove at the end of a ravine that can only be reached after a walk of several kilometers, either from Cala Barques or from the Possessió de Ternelles. The town owes its name to the nearby ruins of Castell del Rei, a 13th-century rock castle of Saracen origin.

Tahaa – Island in French Polynesia

French Polynesia

PatrickJullien

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11. June 2022

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The islands of French Polynesia are arguably some of the most impressive regions our planet has to offer. The mostly volcanic islands are not just small paradises with turquoise blue seas, but often also real cultural treasures that have remained largely free of mass tourism and change over the centuries. A good example of islands worth visiting is Tahaa. The small island has hardly changed over the last few centuries and, around 230 kilometres from Tahiti, offers a very special insight into the unique nature of French Polynesia.

The Island of Vanilla

Tahaa, Island of Vanilla, Image: MAURURU / shutterstock

Tahaa got the nickname “Vanilla Island” mainly because a significant part of the vanilla in French Polynesia is grown here on the island. Visitors report that the smell of the fresh flowers rises to your nose virtually everywhere on the island and thus spreads a very unique atmosphere. But before you can start your visit to one of the many plantations, you first need to get to the island – and that’s not so easy. Which is probably one reason why Tahaa has been able to retain its own charm over the years, as it does not attract too many tourists to the island.

The journey is usually by boat from Raiatea. This neighboring island can be easily reached by plane from most other parts of French Polynesia several times a day, thus also offering the possibility of island hopping. It can be worthwhile to use Raiatea as your own base for your holiday. But Tahaa can also be reached quite quickly from Bora Bora . In less than half an hour you can reach Raiatea by plane and from there you can take a boat to the Vanilla Island. Ship traffic depends on the seasons and should be inquired about locally.

If you are interested in a longer stay on Tahaa, you should make your own booking as early as possible. There are only a few resorts on the island and the majority of the beds are available in small guesthouses, which are usually run by the island’s inhabitants as a part-time job. It can be worthwhile to spend a few more days on the island for one or the other activity – with the appropriate planning and the knowledge of what to expect on Tahaa.

Discover Tahaa – why is the island an insider tip?

Especially among divers, Tahaa has quickly become a hotspot. No wonder, there is hardly any other region in the world that can score with such wonderful water and such a lively and colorful underwater landscape. At Tahaa, there is simply the remoteness, which makes the diving areas easier to reach and ensures that you don’t have to fight with hundreds of other divers for the most beautiful impressions. There are a huge number of wrecks and caves under the water that can be explored. However, professionals say that the sea around Tahaa is not suitable for beginners. So if you want to take your first steps in this sport, you might want to take it elsewhere.

Another group of water sports enthusiasts who will get their money’s worth here are the sailors. Of course, these can be found everywhere in French Polynesia, but in the areas around Tahaa there are not only a variety of natural harbours for a breather or two, but also a largely undriven sea with impressive winds that can lead to a real adventure. Corresponding tours are also offered from the other islands and offer those who do not have a sailboat themselves the opportunity to live this experience.

The island itself also has a lot to offer. Above all, the colorful nature, the beautiful natural gardens and the hiking trails invite you to take a trip. From Mount Ohiri you have an impressive overview of the island and can look over to the neighboring islands or simply let the sea work its magic on you. A visit to a vanilla farm should be a matter of course, after all, the smell will be in your nose all the time anyway.

If you just want to discover a little piece of paradise in the world, a visit to Tahaa is the right place for you. If you expect a comprehensive program, want to eat well and experience action, it is better to stay on one of the more popular islands of French Polynesia and simply take the opportunity for a day trip to Tahaa.

The most beautiful islands of the Seychelles

Seychelles

PatrickJullien

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10. June 2022

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The most beautiful islands of the Seychelles

It is no coincidence that the Republic of Seychelles is named in the plural in the German language. Because the Seychelles, as it is colloquially abbreviated, is an association of no less than 115 islands. The Seychelles are located in the Indian Ocean and one of the many islands seems more beautiful to visitors than the other. Typical here are the powder-white sandy beaches in front of turquoise blue and clear sea water. Many of the islands are made of granite stone, others identify themselves as coral islands. Divers and beach lovers get their money’s worth in the Seychelles as well as nature and hiking enthusiasts. What to see in Seychelles?
We have selected the most beautiful of the 115 islands of the Seychelles for you.

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The main island of Mahé

Port of Victoria, Seychelles — View of Victoria Harbour, Image: GagliardiPhotography / shutterstock

With a length of 28 kilometres and a width of eight kilometres, Mahé is not only the largest island in the Seychelles, but also the most populous. The island has about 72,000 inhabitants and that is 90 percent of the entire population of the Seychelles. A visit to the capital Victoria with the Mont Fleuri Botanical Gardens is worthwhile. This botanical garden is located on the 150-metre-high Mount Fleur and is home to 33 different species of palm trees, among other things. Mahé is also known as the island of forests and orchids. The area of the Morne Seychellois National Park is covered by tropical rainforest. The mountain Morne Seychellois is the highest mountain in the Seychelles at 905 meters. Numerous hiking trails lead to the summit. Along the way, you will encounter exotic lianas, mangroves and turtles. Travel to the Seychelles with Voyage Privé and get to know the main island of Mahé.

Dream beaches and palm trees on Praslin

Praslin, Anse Lazio — The wonderful beach Anse Lazio on Praslin, Image: Micha Rosenwirth / shutterstock

The second largest island in the Seychelles, Praslin is particularly popular with beach lovers. The beaches of Anse Georgette and Anse Lazio are both picture-book beaches, which are extensively overgrown by the Seychelles palm tree, which is only native here. Certified diving instructors introduce you to the beauties of the local underwater world. And there is also a national park on Praslin , which has a particularly interesting forest and palm trees. It is crisscrossed by romantic streams and narrow waterfalls. The national park, known as the Vallée de Mai, is even a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Those who visit the national park will also encounter numerous rare birds, such as the corvid parrot or the thick-billed fleeing bird.

The wedding island of La Digue

Anse Source d'Argent, La Dihue — Anse Source d’Argent on La Digue, Image: Simon Dannhauer / shutterstock

It is not uncommon for weddings to take place on La Digue. Because this island is so beautiful that international wedding couples like to choose it as a backdrop for their wedding ceremony and, of course, for their wedding pictures. The beaches of Pointe Source d’Argent and Anse Source à Jean are particularly beautiful, both interwoven with granite rocks. Since La Digue is completely car-free, you can relax on the island. If you want, you can rent a bike to explore the island. The Nid D’Aigle, the highest elevation on the island at 333 meters, is a popular hiking destination. From the summit you have a magnificent panoramic view of the whole of La Digue. In the bird sanctuary La Digue Veuve Réserve, the Seychelles paradise flycatcher breeds, which earns admiring glances with its deep blue plumage.

Great silhouette of Silhouette Island

Silhouette, Seychelles — The beautiful island silhouette in the Seychelles, Image: Serge Vero / shutterstock

The island of Silhouette was so named because of its interesting silhouette. Viewed from the neighboring islands, you can see that Silhouette is surrounded by a striking chain of rocks. There are no roads on Silhouette. Basically, the island looks wild and primeval and some corners have been little explored and developed to this day. So if you appreciate original nature experiences, you will have a lot of fun here. At Anse La Passe, the longest beach on the island, you can relax in peace and solitude. There are many bays here where you can retreat. If you want, you can stop by the breeding station for Seychelles giant tortoises.

Between luxury and eco-tourism on North Island

North Island is a very special island, because it combines luxury and eco-conscience in perfect form. On the island, which is only two square kilometres in size, you can enjoy a really expensive and at the same time high-quality luxury holiday in the luxury resort. Here, too, there are plenty of dream beaches next to densely overgrown palm beaches. In addition, North Island is a destination for many volunteers who have dedicated themselves to nature and species conservation. Here they help to protect rare turtle species.

Desroches Island: Off the beaten track

If you like to be mainly among locals, Desroches Island is the right place for you. The island is located 200 kilometers from the main island of Mahé and is best reached by plane. Here, 14 kilometres of beach invite you to snorkel, dive and relax. Desroches Island is an international insider tip among divers, because hardly anywhere else are fish and underwater plants more colorful than here. If you want to do sports in a different way, you will find countless hiking and mountain biking trails on the island, all of which are well developed and signposted. Many lead through an excitingly dense tree population with the most wonderful shades of green.

Punta Cana – the pearl of the Dominican Republic

Dominican Republic

PatrickJullien

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10. June 2022

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Punta Cana – the pearl of the Dominican Republic

A poet once came up with an apt formulation when he was asked about the advantages of the Dominican Republic. His statement: “A holiday on this beautiful island is like bathing in a watercolour”. Anyone who has ever gone to one of Punta Cana’s dream beaches is convinced that this judgment is true. Statisticians know that more than forty percent of the approximately three million tourists who look around the Dominican Republic every year look for their own personal domicile at the eastern tip of the island. Punta Cana is unquestionably a pearl among the paradisiacal spots of the Caribbean. With an almost always blue sea and wonderfully warm waves.

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1,500 kilometres of pristine white beach

Punta Cana – these nine letters stand for dreamlike beaches and secluded bays. It is the Costa de Coco, and almost everywhere the beach drops gently into the waters of the Caribbean Sea. If you head for the Dominican Republic from Europe, you usually end up at the international airport at the gates of Punta Cana. After a long flight, the short distances on the island are quite pleasant. The republic has no less than 1,500 kilometres of beaches. It is white almost everywhere, and many of them are considered by international tourism managers to be among the most beautiful in the world. The bright white of the sand competes with the green of the palm trees and the sea, which rarely drops below 26 degrees Celsius.

Hotel offers for every budget

The majority of resorts are located in the Dominican Republic in and around Punta Cana. And these are made for everyone’s wallet. Some are more mid-range hotels, others are particularly tailored to a sporty crowd of guests. Even all-inclusive offers are available in this region of the Caribbean at surprisingly low prices. And almost everywhere, holidaymakers can look forward to top-class restaurants. Punta Cana is something of an Eldorado for gourmets. An 18-hole golf course on the doorstep of this tourist stronghold was designed by none other than the American star designer Pete Dye. The course is one of the best in the entire Caribbean. Since the Dominican Republic is located in the tropical climate zone, guests from all over the world can expect temperatures between 25 and 35 degrees Celsius all year round. If you look around Punta Cana today, it is hard to imagine that a little more than a quarter of a century ago, this place was still a blank spot on the map of international tourism.

Guests at a Caribbean wedding

Punta Cana, Dominican Republic — Punta Cana, Image: Valentin Valkov / shutterstock

Punta Cana is more than just sand and beach. It is worth visiting some of the sights of this region. Among other things, the romantic church Jesus Maestro Parish. The small church is always the scene of a Caribbean wedding. If you’re lucky enough to be here at the right time, you’ll never forget the colorful and cheerful ceremony. The sleepy-looking fishing village of El Cortecito specialises in offering typical island goods. Here you can find jewellery of all kinds in the shops. But also a wealth of CDs with merengue music. And if you want to have a bottle of rum in your luggage on the flight home, you will find the right variety in El Cortecito. Punta Cana is surrounded by the Este National Park. It has a size of 430 square kilometers and is home to rare birds and plants. If you want to visit the interesting Cuevas des Puente and Josè Maria, you should put yourself in the care of experienced guides.

Swim with dolphins in the park

A typical artists’ village is located not far from La Romana. The town of Altos de Chavón is almost a birthday present, because it was built by a certain Charles Bludhorn. He wanted to give his daughter a special present. Today, sculptors, painters, musicians and internationally acclaimed photographers work here in the various workshops. The amphitheater in Altos de Chavón has become a cultural hotspot of the Dominican Republic, offering space for five thousand people. The theme park in Bávaro-Punta Cana is very popular. In Manati Park, flowers bloom in all seasons. Especially the numerous colorful orchids. Visitors also have the opportunity to swim with dolphins or attend a show with seals. Guests get very close to the culture of the island while strolling through a typical Taino village.

Clear water and dazzling corals

If you fly to Punta Cana to enjoy the sun, sand and beach, you are spoilt for choice. Even the locals do not agree in their assessment of the ranking of the most beautiful beaches. Guests are drawn to Playa Bavaro because of the clear water and the dazzling coral world. Playa El Macao is popular for its naturalness, and Playa Arena Garda is the epitome of an exotic world with coconut palms on the beach and dives to the wreck of the MS Astron. Playa Bonita is framed by bizarre rocks. The “Beautiful Beach” is blessed with a golden yellow sand. If you are prepared for longer hikes on the beach in Punta Cana, you will find your paradise at Cabeza de Toro.

Beautiful memories of the holiday

All about travel

PatrickJullien

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9. June 2022

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A photo book or photo print is an excellent way to capture the beautiful memories of the holiday together. In the past, you shot two or three films full and brought them to development after the holidays. Those days are over thanks to digital cameras and smartphones equipped with powerful cameras. Nowadays, thanks to user-friendly software for laymen, it is also possible to order photo printing online quickly and easily.

However, before you start designing the book online, you should first sort out the desired pictures and think about the order in which they will be placed.

Rosemood Online Shop — Website of Rosemood

Once this point is ticked off, you choose the desired provider. Admittedly, the selection of providers on the Internet is extensive. If you value careful workmanship and high-quality paper grades, we recommend the French supplier Rosemood Atelier, based in Nantes in western France.

Founded in 2006, the company specialised in the printing of high-quality birth cards in 2010 after initial difficulties. A big step was already taken in 2013: the print products could be manufactured in the company’s own halls. Thus, the high quality standards of the paper lovers could be asserted. In the same year, the young company published its first German-language website, “geburtskarten.com”.

More and more print products have been added to the range over the years. From high-quality Christmas and wedding cards, photo prints to the popular photo books.

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Best print result

To authentically reproduce your photos and highlight the contrasts, Rosemood Atelier uses 5-colour digital printing. However, before the product is printed, it must of course first be designed. In the first step, you can choose from various layouts, also known as templates.

Once you have decided on a template, upload the pre-selected images to the software and start placing the images. In the photo book, the individually designed pages can be provided with text to keep the memories of certain sights or people alive in this way.

Take a few hours to design it. The result will thank you and you will always have a great pleasure in reminiscing.

Good ideas to immortalize your vacation pictures on paper

Picturesque bridges on the city trip, e.g. the Charles Bridge in Prague, the Rialto Bridge in Venice or the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco
Famous sights such as the Eiffel Tower in Paris, the Acropolis in Athens or the Colosseum in Rome are ideal for a large-format print
The wonderful sunset on the beach
Family photo with all family members (especially on vacation, other tourists are always helpful and happy to help take pictures.

General tips for taking photos on holiday

Be sure to take a second battery or, depending on the device, a power bank with you
Look for exciting, unusual motifs
For high image quality, don’t overdo the use of zoom
Feel free to take two to three pictures at a time and then choose the right motif
Keep the lens clean
To save storage space, you can delete failed pictures directly

Popular holiday destinations on the Italian Adriatic

Italy

PatrickJullien

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9. June 2022

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Popular holiday destinations on the Italian Adriatic

Mediterranean holiday flair spreads on the beautiful beaches, bays and coastal towns of the Italian Adriatic. Italy’s Adriatic coast can be as diverse as the regions that lie on its shores – from Veneto to Emilia-Romagna and Abruzzo to Puglia. Film, novel and fascinating travel stories entwine around the beautiful holiday destinations on the Italian east coast, including dream destinations such as Venice, Caorle, Trieste, Rimini and Otranto. One thing is clear: The Italian Adriatic coast is a paradise for friends of Mediterranean culture and beach holidays.

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Venice – World-class Mediterranean cultural city

Murano Island — View of the colorful Venetian houses along the canal on the islands of Murano in Venice, Image: Javen / shutterstock

Hardly any other city in Italy – perhaps with the exception of Rome – fascinates international visitors as much as Venice. And for good reason. The world-famous canal city strings together a whole spectacle of magnificent buildings of the UNESCO World Heritage Site. Along unforgettable sights such as the Rialto Bridge, St. Mark’s Square with St. Mark’s Basilica or the Doge’s Palace runs Venice’s Mediterranean lifeline: the Grand Canal. If you have chosen the Italian Adriatic as your holiday destination, you should not miss Venice and its Veneto region. The Venice Lagoon is located directly on the Adriatic coast and can provide a wonderful contrast to many of the seaside resorts of the Adriatic Sea with its fascinating cultural program within the city. Not much more needs to be said about the city with its fascinating canals, except: A Mediterranean dream destination on the Italian Adriatic.

Caorle and Bibione – In the footsteps of Hemingway

Lighthouse of Bibione, Image: AerialVision_it / shutterstock

The beauty of the Italian Adriatic did not pass by the American writer Ernest Hemingway either. In the 1940s, for example, he regularly stayed in the historic coastal town of Caorle. There he is said to have laid the foundations for his work “Across the River into the Forests (1950)”. Together with the neighboring town of Bibione, Carole is now considered one of the most beautiful seaside resorts on the northern Adriatic coast. Highlights are of course the local beaches – in Caorle there are the Spiaggia di Ponente and the Spiaggia Levante to see. But the coastal town also has an old town worth seeing with picturesque alleys and colourful house façades, as well as the Madonna dell’Angelo church near the shore and a cylindrical campanile. Mediterranean beach idyll can also be seen in Bibione, a top destination for beach vacationers on the northern Adriatic.

Trieste – City of Culture on the shores of the Adriatic Sea

Trieste, Italy — Picturesque Trieste, Image: leoks / shutterstock

It is easy to forget that the historic cultural city of Trieste can also be found directly on the Adriatic coast as a holiday resort. The city is excellently located near the border to also take a tour to Croatian Istria . Trieste itself has a long history, dating back to ancient times, when the city was known as Tergeste. Today, Trieste is a well-known port city, an economic and cultural center of the northern Adriatic coast. At its heart is the central square Piazza dell’Unità d’Italia with an eclectic town hall from the 19th century, magnificent palazzos and the Fountain of the Four Continents (Fontana dei quattro continenti) from the 18th century. In the surrounding area are the scenic Castello di Duino and the Castello di Miramare – magnificent buildings located in the dreamlike panorama of the Adriatic Sea. The city has a beautiful Grand Canal at its heart as well as fascinating

Districts – whether historic or modern – and hiking routes in the area that are popular with nature lovers. When it comes to the most beautiful holiday destinations on the Adriatic, Trieste should not be forgotten.

Rimini – paradise for beach vacationers

Tiberius Bridge Rimini — The Tiberius Bridge of Rimini, Image: ALEX_UGALEK / shutterstock

None other than the world-famous Italian film director Federico Fellini (La Strada, 8 1/2, La Dolce Vita) was once born in Rimini, which repeatedly resonated in his films through characters and scenery. Even today, Rimini is one of the most popular bathing orders on the Italian Adriatic coast. This is due to the many dream beaches in the Emilia-Romagna region, but also to the optimal location to explore other highlights of Italy. A day trip to the historic city of Ravenna with its World Heritage Site is easily possible – magnificent churches and baptisteries from early Christian times await you there. Rimini itself is interspersed with historical buildings – there are especially ancient structures such as the old Arch of Augustus from 27 BC or the Ponte d’Augusto bridge, whose roots lie in the time of the Roman emperor Tiberius. Seaside tourism in Ravenna has a long tradition, so in the middle of the 19th century the first official seaside resort on the Adriatic coast was built here. And the city has lost none of its seaside charm to this day.

From Otranto to Lecce – The tourist insider tips of Puglia

Puglia, Polignano a Mare — Polignano a Mare, Image: Stefano_Valeri / shutterstock

The beautiful Apulia in the south of Italy is still one of the insider tips among the Italian travel regions. Puglia has some of the most idyllic coastal resorts in the Italian Adriatic. If you want to get to know the Adriatic coast far away from the classic hotspots such as Venice or Rimini, you should therefore go to the south of the country. Among other things, the historic Otranto with its old town and its fascinating coastal cityscape is located there. Rarely has a city been so seamlessly integrated into the cliff landscapes of the Adriatic coast. In general, a relaxed tour along the coastal region of Puglia is recommended for travelers. Here are historic cities such as Lecce with its terminal columns of the ancient Roman Via Appia, the Roman amphitheater, and its famous buildings of the Leccese Baroque, which is why the city is also known as the Florence of the Rococo. Bari, Ostuni or the beautiful Santa Maria di Leuca on the South Cape – the intersection between the Adriatic Sea and the Ionian Sea – make Puglia one of the most interesting regions to discover the Adriatic coast.

Planning a city trip: How to prepare properly

All about travel

PatrickJullien

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8. June 2022

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Planning a city trip: How to prepare properly

There are countless ways to travel during your well-deserved vacation. Some swear by a relaxing holiday on the beach, others like to be active in nature and still others prefer to explore the most beautiful cities. With the latter, the advantages are obvious: you get to know many new people and come into contact with the culture there. But being on the road in a completely foreign city can quickly develop into a culture shock. For this reason, good planning in advance is important. We’ll show you how to do it.

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City trips are always an experience

City trips are not so popular for nothing. They make it easy for you to immerse yourself in the culture of a region or country. A lot of history has usually happened here. You will also meet new people, get to know a new cuisine and explore a whole new culture. At the same time, it is very exciting to discover new things again and again.

Take your time and don’t overwhelm yourself. Take it easy and then a city trip can even be really relaxed. Of course, planning in advance, as is the case with any trip, should be mandatory, although it should not be too detailed.

It doesn’t necessarily have to be abroad

There are really more than enough cities to explore in the world. But before you venture abroad, you should first pay attention to the cities in your immediate vicinity. Because even a few hundred kilometres away, completely new cultural horizons may open up for you.

Take a look at the graffiti scene in the capital , for example. This is by no means graffiti, but real art. Munich also has much more to offer, especially culturally, than just white sausages, lederhosen and dirndls.

Even a beach holiday in Germany can be combined with a city trip, for example if you visit Cuxhaven, Kiel or other German cities on the water.

Consider travel time

Especially in cities, you should consider some special features when booking your trip. Find out in advance whether there may be any major events at your chosen travel time. Then the city could be quite crowded and the accommodations quite rare. Therefore, you should inform yourself as early as possible.

Often the cities are quite empty in the summer months, i.e. the main holiday season. However, if you want to visit such an event as part of your city trip, you should plan and book early.

Plan sights

The big cities in particular offer you a whole range of famous sights. If you travel to Paris, for example, you should not miss the Louvre with Leonardo Da Vinci’s “Mona Lisa”. In Barcelona , you will definitely want to visit the Sagrada Familia, the city’s famous landmark.

If you want to avoid long queues or even disappointment , we recommend that you reserve tickets for the sights in advance. In addition, there are some other tips on how to see the sights in an uncomplicated way. However, you should not plan your stay too much either.

Getting around a city

Walk as many distances as possible. This will allow you to take most of the impressions from your trip with you and perhaps discover beautiful places that are not necessarily on a tourist map. Away from the tourist routes, the real treasures are often waiting.

If you do have to make a further journey, we recommend that you use the local public transport. They are cheaper than any city tour and usually you see much more of the city here.

Food and drink away from the tourist crowds

Culinary delights open up the culture of a region or an entire country to many people. Unfortunately, this image is often distorted in the tourist restaurants near famous landmarks. Our tip: Look for restaurants, cafés and pubs where satisfied locals sit.

Here you can be sure that you will get a good cuisine that is also cheap. The sad truth is that you tend to get worse food at high prices in tourist-oriented restaurants.

Go on a discovery tour

As mentioned earlier, you shouldn’t completely plan the days you spend in the city. Take the time to simply go aimlessly on a discovery tour. Get involved with new influences, places and people. In this way, you may even have the most exciting experiences.

However, you should still be careful and not go too naïve to a foreign city. Especially after dark, avoid poorly lit corners and alleys of a city. Stay where people are. You can never be too careful.

Orientation not always easy

It’s not always easy to find your way around a new city. Therefore, rely on maps that you can get at the tourist information office, for example. In addition, you should work with your smartphone and download maps for offline use. Make sure that your mobile phone is always charged or that you at least have a power bank with you that you can use in an emergency.

Result

We wish you a lot of fun planning and of course the actual city trip. If you follow our tips, nothing can go wrong.

The most beautiful sights and excursion destinations on La Réunion

Reunion

PatrickJullien

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8. June 2022

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The most beautiful sights and excursion destinations on La Réunion

The Île de la Réunion, part of the French Overseas Territory, is one of the most fascinating island worlds in the Indian Ocean in terms of tourism. To the east of the coast of Madagascar, a spectacular natural paradise unfolds, whose green panoramas have their origin in the volcanic activity of the Piton des Neiges. Even today, the central formation shapes the geography of the island, whose highlights attract great attention, especially among nature lovers. Whether it’s the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Parc national de la Réunion, the striking Cap Méchant with its rock gate and the Voile de la mariée waterfall: La Réunion offers a breathtaking selection of natural sights.

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Parc national de la Réunion – The island’s UNESCO World Heritage Site

Reunion Beach — Reunion is simply paradise, Image: Balate Dorin / shutterstock

The Parc national de la Réunion is the natural heart of La Réunion. With its peaks and cirques, it was recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2010. As one of the nine French national parks, it covers about 40 percent of the island’s territory in the heart of La Réunion. It is therefore not surprising that some of the most beautiful natural formations and natural sights can be discovered within the national park. In the middle of the center is the extinct volcano Piton des Neiges, which formed La Réunion about three million years ago. Today, the Piton des Neiges is not only an attraction for experienced mountaineers, but also the natural hikes and trekking tours to the Piton des Neiges. Together with the historic calderas Cirque de Salazie, Cirque de Mafate and Cirque de Cilaos, it forms the natural heart of the Parc national de la Réunion.

Cirque de Salazie, Cirque de Cilaos and co. – The cirques in the national park

Together with the historic volcano Piton des Neiges, the Cirque de Salazie, Cirque de Mafate and Cirque de Cilaos calderas have been part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site in La Réunion’s National Park since 2010 under the title Pitons, cirques et remparts de l’île de La Réunion. Narrow road bends – such as the Road of 420 Curves – lead into the heart of the two more easily accessible calderas, Cirque de Cilaos and Cirque de Salazie. An exceptional natural panorama unfolds in the surroundings of the calderas, which, like the Piton des Neiges, form essential parts of the nature of the national park. The valley basin of Salazie is particularly popular for its natural hiking routes, which bring visitors closer to the green facets of the national park. The Cilaos cirque, located directly on the Piton des Neiges, also attracts nature and hiking enthusiasts from the region with its routes – like the tours to the Piton des Neiges, they provide the best reasons for fans of active travel to visit the National Park of La Réunion.

Cilaos cirque

If you travel to the Cilaos cirque, you will drive through very impressive hairpin bends with a breathtakingly beautiful landscape in the most beautiful greenery. At this holiday destination, it is definitely worth unpacking your hiking boots and exploring the area on foot. You should definitely visit the town of Cilaos.

Cap Méchant with rock gate – Natural archways on Le Réunion

Cap Méchant, Reunion — Cap Méchant, Image: Zourite / shutterstock

If you are looking for a contrast to the national park in the heart of La Réunion, the coast of the French island offers dreamlike bays and sea panoramas. There are the striking rock faces of Cap Jaune or the beach idyll of the Plage des Roches Noires. Cap Méchant in the south of the island is particularly photogenic, formed from the fascinating legacies of La Réunion’s volcanic activity. The unpredictable cliff landscapes require a natural safety distance, but with appropriate caution they provide one of the most beautiful views of the coastal world of Lá Reunion. In the middle of an untameable surf, a striking rock gate is also presented here, which penetrates the cooled lava with a special sight. A nice contrast to the mountains and forests in the heart of the island. By the way: If you are interested in natural rock gates, you will find a similar one in the valley of the Bras de la Plaine river, the L’Arche Naturelle, a comparatively beautiful natural spectacle.

The Cap Noir and the Mafate viewpoint

Here you will find beautiful hiking trails to explore. One of the destinations of these routes is the Mafate viewpoint, which consists of a small pavilion and a few benches. The view here is truly of breathtaking beauty. The green valley visible from here provides an amazement that never wants to end. Just beautiful and to enjoy!

Weekly market of Saint-Paul – delicacies in the coastal town

La Réunion offers a lot of untouched nature, so a trip into city life can be a pleasant alternative. The island’s weekly markets are famous, especially that of Saint-Paul. Whether blaze of colour or exotic smells and tastes, the weekly market of the coastal town is full of them. From fruit to vegetables, from regional specialities to spices and clothing – on market days, a pleasantly lively island life with interesting assortments awaits you here. As a rule, the market of Saint-Paul takes place from Friday to Saturday. The market experience is not limited to Saint-Paul, cities such as Saint-Pierre and Saint-Denis also have weekly markets or fixed market halls with culinary highlights. If you want to enrich your holiday on La Réunion with regional specialities, you should visit the island’s towns and markets.

Whale watching – whale watching in the coastal region of La Réunion

In the appropriate season, the coast of La Réunion is lively: whales are drawn to the island region, which inspire many travelers to whale watch. June to September are considered the best months to catch a glimpse of the special sea creatures. A typical starting point for the popular tours is the seaside resort of Saint-Gilles les Bains, from where some glass-bottom boats depart. Especially on the south coast of the island, the gigantic marine mammals appear during the season. Whale watching at La Réunion is strictly regulated – including minimum distances so as not to disturb the fragile ecosystem in the long term. In the corresponding season, humpback whales are particularly widespread near La Réunion. There are also isolated sightings of pilot whales, small killer whales and right whales. Dolphins are also regular visitors to the shores of La Réunion. Further proof that the island is one of the special natural paradises in the Indian Ocean.

Grand Anse Beach

The palm beach Grand Anse is located in the south of La Réunion. This beautiful white sandy beach is a must-see. It invites you to linger for a longer time and relax in the sun. Due to the existing shark danger in the area, an area was separated from the sea with stones especially for tourism. In this separately created swimming pool you can splash around safely and wonderfully. A beautiful day of swimming under the hot sun of the Indian Ocean is guaranteed.

Cap Jaune

Cap Jaune is a rock face about 50 meters high in the south of La Réunion. But this beautiful holiday resort is not that easy to reach. First, you have to hike over lava rock for about half an hour to get to this beautiful place. But once you are there, you can observe the natural interplay of the sea and this rock face. In an impressive setting, the waves slap against the rock face again and again. This spectacle invites you to enjoy it for hours, preferably with a magnificent sunset. It is even possible to climb down this rock face. For the more adventurous, extra ropes are attached for abseiling. The Cap Jaune was created by combining glowing lava with the seawater.

Lagoon on the west coast

On the west coast of La Réunion, you will find a unique lagoon that is second to none. This is certainly one of the most beautiful places on the island. The sandy beach, which is several kilometres long, offers the ideal opportunities for a perfect bathing experience. The underwater world demonstrates a colorful spectacle to snorkelers and divers. This beach is also secured from sharks.

Piton de la Fournaise

The Piton de la Fournaise is one of the most active volcanoes in the world. Very often this spits out lava. If you are on the island, there is a good chance that you will be able to observe this spectacle for yourself. There is a volcano museum nearby, where you can learn a lot of interesting facts about it. On the one hand, this is very interesting, but on the other hand, it is also very instructive in order to better understand the whole context.

Saint-Leu Turtle Observatory

The turtle observatory in Saint-Leu is particularly interesting for children.
You will learn a lot of interesting facts about these armored inhabitants of the island. In addition, you can experience turtle rearing up close at the research station.

Crater Lake Grand Bassin

Réunion’s only crater lake, Grand Bassin, is definitely worth a visit. This is located in the center of La Réunion. Several waterfalls provide it with cool water from a great height. You simply have to see this spectacle with your own eyes. In the immediate vicinity there are breathtaking gorges and rock formations with green valleys. This place with its biodiversity of plants and animals is really a fantastic experience. Here you might think you’ve come one step closer to paradise.

The most popular vacation spots in the Dominican Republic

Dominican Republic

PatrickJullien

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7. June 2022

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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.