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Outfit ideas for your next city trip

To ensure that you are properly dressed on your next city trip, we have put together two outfit ideas for you. Get inspired and stay true to your style even when traveling!

Outfit 1: The ideal look for sightseeing

Sightseeing is a must on a city trip. Above all, the outfit should be comfortable, but still convince with a sense of style. If the sporty look is something for you, it’s best to simply grab a pair of jeans and combine it with a T-shirt and a cardigan. A jacket that is adapted to the current weather conditions completes the look. When it gets warmer during the day, the individual layers can be taken off one by one. If you are more in the mood for a feminine outfit, you can also put on a dress or wear a tunic over leggings. It is important that you feel comfortable and can move well in your outfit.

Bag

A backpack is the ideal choice for city tours. This is because it is simply carried on the back, so that the body is not burdened on one side. Travel backpacks made of breathable materials and with lots of practical features, such as beverage compartments on the sides, are best suited for this. If you are an athletic type, these will of course also fit perfectly with your look. But there are also very chic daypacks made of leather or with a glossy lacquer surface.

Shoes

Don’t underestimate the kilometers you will walk during a city trip. Often people stroll leisurely from one sight to the next, so that you don’t even notice which paths you have already covered. Your feet will notice! This is especially true if you are walking around on hard asphalt all day, which will inevitably be the case on a city tour. Flat shoes such as sneakers or boots are a good option. These can be selected to suit your individual style. It is best to choose shoes that you have already broken in well and of which you know that you will not get blisters in them. After all, it would be very annoying if you had to break off the sightseeing tour because of aching feet.

Accessories

With the right accessories, the sightseeing look is skilfully rounded off. A scarf or shawl is always a good choice. Because it is simply super practical and keeps you pleasantly warm. At the same time, it is a chic fashion accessory with which you can give your look that certain something. Since there are different tying techniques for shawls and scarves , one and the same shawl can be staged again and again.

Outfit 2: The stylish evening look

Opera on holiday
End the day with a nice visit to the opera or concert, Image: BearFotos / shutterstock

After spending the day looking at impressive buildings and strolling through the city centre, the time has come for a fancier outfit in the evening. Maybe you want to dine at an upscale restaurant, go to the theater, or go to the opera. The classic trouser suit, for example, is back in vogue. It exudes seriousness, but can also look casual if you choose an oversized model. Alternatively, the little black dress is always a good choice. This takes up little space in your luggage and can be combined in many ways.

Bag

A handbag to wear around your neck or a clutch are suitable companions for the chic evening look. Now, after all, you don’t have to carry around a water bottle or camera. It is sufficient if there is room for a smartphone, wallet and hotel keys. You can’t go wrong with a noble model made of black leather here. At the same time, however, a clutch in an accent colour or with a shiny metallic surface can create a successful contrast to the black dress.

Shoes

Since the shoes are only worn for a few hours and not the whole day, they are welcome to have a heel. Classic pumps or ankle boots with a slim shape are an excellent choice. If you prefer it flat, ballerinas are a good choice.

Accessories

Get your best jewelry out of the box. Gold earrings or an eye-catching statement necklace will instantly make your look look more luxurious.

 

 

 

Discover the most beautiful national parks in the world

National parks are a very special destination because they offer unique insights into life and nature. Making the right selection is anything but easy, because in the USA and Canada alone there are impressive national parks that are worth several weeks of travel at a time. The following places are worthwhile for all those who have always wanted to spend an enchanting holiday in harmony with nature and be carried away into foreign spheres.

Kakadu National Park in Australia

Kakadu National Park is a place in Australia that becomes a real paradise for wildlife watchers and anglers. The billabongs in the Australian countryside are populated by birds and are also considered the largest habitat for saltwater crocodiles in the Northern Territory. Mystical landscapes and unique wildlife fascinate Kakadu National Park.

The Northern Territory itself is well worth a visit, as there are incredible and breathtaking experiences here. The Red Centre and the tropical north of the Northern Territory offer the ultimate contrasts. With the Litchfield National Park, another nature park invites you to visit. Here, it is mainly termite mounds that attract attention.

The Great Gobi National Park in Asia

Along southern Mongolia is the largest national park in Asia, which has a size of 27,000 m² to offer. In this park there is a part of the Gobi Desert, a large proportion of mountain and steppe landscapes, and a large ice area. Hardly any other region in the world offers so much breathtaking beauty in one place.

The approach is possible via the tranquil town of Dalanzadgad, which also invites you to stay for a few days. In the park itself, not only impressive landscapes await, but also completely foreign animal species such as lamb vultures, snow leopards and giant wild sheep. At the same time, a breathtaking panorama with an unforgettable view is offered.

The Doi Inthanon National Park in Thailand

Doi Inthanon National Park
Doi Inthanon National Park, Image: ploypemuk / shutterstock

Located in the north of Thailand is the highest mountain in the country, Doi Inthanon. It has a total height of 2,565 meters and is considered the highest point in Thailand. At its height is the most popular Thai national park, which was opened in 1954. As an excursion destination, it offers an impressive view of the natural unfolding of life.

Here you can admire enchanting waterfalls, gibbon monkeys and tigers and an appealing fauna. Thailand , which is otherwise quite dry, literally blossoms in this place. Instead of seeing classic rainforest, visitors come across peat mosses, orchids, oaks, pines, and even ferns. An excursion destination for enthusiastic mountaineers and all those who want to relax in nature.

The fascination of the national park – why it’s so exciting here

A visit to a national park is more than a holiday, because there is a variety to discover here that would otherwise remain hidden. Not every natural region has the chance to be declared an outstanding habitat and national park. Parks can be found all over the world, but America, Australia and Asia offer the most beautiful and greatest variety for travelers from all over the world. For a trip to one of the national parks of the world, a travel time of at least 14 days should be planned.

Croatia: The most beautiful cities in the interior

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When you hear “Croatia”, you probably think of summer, sun and shine. Of course, this is not wrong, after all, the small country on the Adriatic Sea with only 3.8 million inhabitants is one of the most popular travel destinations for Germans. In the record year 2019, shortly before the start of the pandemic, the Central European country was able to record 19.6 million tourists, according to statista .

Most tourists are drawn to the sea – but Croatia has and is more than the sea. The beauty of Croatia includes sacred buildings that are UNESCO World Heritage Sites, forests, rivers, lakes and historic towns.

In this article, we present four cities off the Croatian coast that are worth a trip.

Zagreb

Croatia, Zagreb
The capital Zagreb at sunset, Image: Razvan Ionut Dragomirescu / shutterstock

Zagreb is an excellent choice for a weekend getaway. The city is served by Ryanair and other airlines from several German cities. With around 800,000 inhabitants, the capital of Croatia is the economic, political and cultural centre of the country.

Most of the buildings date back to either the Baroque period or the time of the Austro-Hungarian Empire, which had a great influence on Zagreb . Zagreb offers a very cozy atmosphere and is located at the interface between the Balkans and Central Europe due to its geographical position.

Culinary delights get their money’s worth here – the city is characterized by traditional, hearty cuisine with lots of fish and meat. The most popular sights include the Upper Town (Gornji Grad), the “Uspinjaca” cable car and the Zrinjevac Park.

Motovun

Motovun, Croatia
Motovun, Image: xbrchx / shutterstock

Motovun is a small town located in Istria, which is the northwest of the country. It is located on a 277 m high hill in the valley of the Mirna River. The medieval city belonged to the Venetian Republic from the 13th to the 18th century before it fell under the influence of Napoleon.

In the centre of the city, where time seems to have stood still, sits St. Stephen’s Church with its 13th-century bell tower. The city wall, which is even older, offers fantastic views of the Istrian countryside.

Haute cuisine is the order of the day in Motovun – in addition to tastings of wine and olive oil, truffles are the gastronomic highlight.

Imotski

Imotski
Imotski, Image: Joachim Bago / shutterstock

We are heading south – about 100 kilometers from the famous city of Split is Imotski. Imotski is great for a day trip if you are spending your summer vacation in Split, Makarska, or anywhere in between. Imotski, while not spectacular, is an authentic Croatian town that came under Ottoman rule in the 15th century.

Tourists will notice that nature here is already more barren and rugged than in the rest of Croatia. The surrounding area of Imotski is untouched and is home to two geological wonders of the world, which are within walking distance of the centre. These are the Red and Blue Lakes. At a depth of around 530 metres, both are among the deepest collapse sinkholes in the world and are absolutely worth seeing.

Varazdin

Varazdin
Varazdin, Image: xbrchx / shutterstock

In the northern, continental part of Croatia is the baroque city of Varazdin, which shows the diversity of Croatia in all its glory. The city was the capital of Croatia in the 18th century and is nicknamed “little Vienna” due to its architecture.

The most famous attraction in the city of 50,000 inhabitants is the castle from the 12th century, which is now a museum. It is also worth paying a visit to the Sermage Palace. The historic centre of Varazdin is very well preserved and it is a good idea to stroll through the cobblestone city and enjoy the atmosphere.

Result

Croatia has long since ceased to be an insider tip and has been on everyone’s lips for several years. This is especially true for the Adriatic coast, where prices have also risen in recent years. With a flash loan , such a vacation can be financed more easily. Away from the tourist strongholds on the Adriatic, the prices for accommodation and gastronomy are much lower. Maybe your next trip will take you to the Croatian interior!

 

Qatar and the capital Doha

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The Emirate of Qatar is likely to have become a household name for most people, especially through the many discussions surrounding the 2022 World Cup. While the country itself can hardly be found on a map – actually it is only a small tip of the Arabian Peninsula – the emirate has developed into a global player in recent years. This can be seen not only in the fact that more and more major events are being held, but also in the development of the capital Doha, which is now attracting attention with impressive sights of modernity. What is worth visiting the emirate and what should you pay attention to when travelling?

Qatar’s history from a small emirate to a global player

Like all countries in the region, Qatar was created by the final collapse of the Ottoman Empire and subsequent control by the British. In 1971, it refused to join the United Arab Emirates and preferred to become independent, with its own borders and control. The fact that they could simply afford it was of course due to the valuable resources that they had found in their own national borders in the meantime. Qatar is rich not only in oil, but also in natural gas and thus plays an important role as an exporter to the entire world and is able to raise appropriate financial resources for the development of its own economy.

While contact with its immediate neighbours and the other countries of the Arab world was rather difficult, Qatar was one of the first oil states to discover that diversification of its own economy would be necessary, as the oil would eventually no longer be there. Accordingly, the company has been expanding strongly in all relevant industries for many years. Tourism plays the biggest role in Qatar’s plans, and Doha competes with Dubai when it comes to the reputation of the most exciting metropolis in the Western world. In fact, Doha is still more of an insider tip, while Dubai is developing into a destination for mass tourism.

The must-see sights of Qatar

Countdown Clock World Cup Qatar
The countdown clock to the World Cup in Qatar, Image: HasanZaidi / shutterstock

In general, a trip to Qatar is always a trip to Doha. The emirate has little to offer beyond the sights in the capital and over 90 percent of the state’s population can be found in the big city. One of the peculiarities is that there are only a few hundred thousand Qataris – most people in Doha are guest workers or foreigners who are here for certain projects and would not call the country their home. However, this does not mean that the development of recent years has not brought with it some interesting cultural peculiarities.

Doha is above all a city of views. The imposing skyscrapers that rise throughout the city are not only a sign of Qatar’s economic strength, but also include some of the best hotels in the world. With the numerous observation decks, you have a great view of the skyline, especially at night, or you can take your time for the sunset and enjoy it from some of the tallest houses in the city.

Galleria Lafayette at Katara Cultural Village
Galleria Lafayette in the Katara Cultural Village, Image: HasanZaidi / shutterstock

The fact that Doha is trying to combine modernity with the historical Arab world can be found as evidence in the various parts of the city. The Katara Cultural Village is probably one of the best examples of this. In the historical style, the former construction method in this region of the world is recalled. The buildings are decorated with works of art by Arab artists. Whether it’s a look at the amphitheatre, the planetarium or an extended trip for shopping – all this is possible without any problems in the new cultural district of Doha.

The absolute must-see on a walk through Doha is the new Museum of Islamic Art. Even from the outside, the hotel gives an idea of the passion that has gone into the construction here. Inside, some of the most impressive works of art in the Islamic world and some interesting exhibitions about the importance of art in the desert state are gathered. Art lovers in particular will get their money’s worth here for a few hours and it is a pleasant change from one or the other shopping trip in the heat in the well-cooled building.

Luxury, shopping and nightlife in the Qatari metropolis

When visiting Doha, it is inevitable that you will quickly notice that everything is new here – even if the builders make an effort to make one or the other building look historic. The crowning glory of this architecture is certainly the “The Pearl” district, which was built over the area where the Qataris once dived for pearls. Luxury brands from all over the world have settled here and the replica Venice is without question an eye-catcher.

If you want to discover Doha in a more down-to-earth way, you should definitely visit the markets such as Souq Waqif. Both day and night, life in the metropolis of Doha takes place here. Over a good coffee, you can watch locals and tourists and get an insight into how the Arab metropolis behaves after nightfall. This is probably the closest you can get to the real and unposed culture of the country.

Halkidiki, the trident of Poseidon

The most striking geographical feature of the peninsula in northern Greece are the finger-like headlands of Cassandra, Sithonia and Athos, which extend far into the Aegean Sea, known as the so-called three fingers. The inhabitants of Halkidiki, on the other hand, refer to their homeland more as a trident of the sea god Poseidon turned into stone. There are many good reasons to take a holiday in Halkidiki. Here you will find pure nature, romantic places and, in addition to many sights, beautiful beaches.

Whether nature lovers, culture enthusiasts, sun worshippers and beach lovers, Halkidiki offers unforgettable holiday fun for every taste. Summer on the Greek peninsula is pleasantly warm with daytime temperatures between 29 and 32 degrees. At night it will be a little cooler, the temperatures can drop to 15 to 18 degrees. It can rain more often between November and April. The summer months of May to September are therefore the best time to explore and get to know Halkidiki.

Places of interest in Halkidiki

Thessaloniki, white tower
The White Tower of Thessaloniki, Image: Lambros Kazan / shutterstock

Thessaloniki

The second largest city in Greece can boast numerous historic buildings, mosques and other architectural structures. Special attractions are the white tower, formerly a prison or the old city wall from the time of Byzantine rule. Furthermore, a visit to the “Agios Dimitros”, the main church of Thessaloniki, or one of the numerous mosques is a good idea. A visit to the archaeological or Byzantine museum is also worthwhile. In the city centre around the “Aristotelous Square”, tired holidaymakers can relax in peace with a coffee or enjoy a glass of Greek wine in one of the many enchanting taverns.

Neos Marmaras

The lively port city on the Sithonia peninsula is surrounded by beautiful pine forests. More than 100 beaches and small coves invite you to sunbathe and swim with their crystal clear waters and white sand. Along the waterfront promenade in the harbor, life pulsates in the otherwise rather cozy place. In the numerous restaurants with international cuisine, taverns and bars, guests can fulfil their culinary wishes or buy a holiday souvenir while shopping through the souvenir shops. From the port there is also a ferry connection to Athos.

Simonos Petras, Halkidiki
Simonos Petras, Halkidiki, Image: Andrew_T / shutterstock

Monastic Republic of Athos

Best reached by boat from Neos Marmaras, the autonomous monastic republic on Mount Athos, which rises to an imposing 2,033 meters, is an absolute magnet for visitors. However, there is a restriction for visitors. Only male guests with a corresponding permit (a so-called diamonitrion) are admitted. If you meet these two conditions, you can stay overnight in one of the many monasteries for free and stay for max. experience everyday life in the monastery for three days. In the Dochiariou Monastery, guests can even expect two special highlights: several hand bones of John Baptist the Baptist and a piece of the cross on which Jesus Christ died. Whether you believe the legend or not, everyone can decide for themselves.

Meteora

If you stay in Thessaloniki, you should definitely plan a trip to the floating monasteries of Meteora. The monastery complexes, built on cliffs rising steeply into the sky, are really worth seeing. Originally 24, there are now 6 monastery buildings open to visitors, in which nuns and monks still live today.

Other sights worth a trip

Ancient Olynthos

Those interested in culture can immerse themselves in Greece’s past at this famous archaeological site. You can visit old houses and walls, floor mosaics and other remains of the former city of Olynthos from the 8th century.

Petralona stalactite cave

There are numerous stalactite caves in Greece. Petralona is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful and a very special highlight. In the cave, 250,000 – 150,000 year old fossils of “Homo heidelbergensis”, a species of the human genus that became extinct in the Middle Pleistocene, were found. The cave with a total length of 2,000 meters and beautiful stalactites and stalagmites can be visited daily (except Mondays) from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., in summer until 6 p.m. Next to the cave is a Stone Age museum, where interested parties can learn interesting facts about the life of the Stone Age people.

The most beautiful beaches of Halkidiki

Sun-seekers can sunbathe in the sun on 550 kilometers of beaches in Halkidiki, relax wonderfully and experience a wonderful beach and bathing holiday. Located between Neos Marmaras and Nikitis, Lagomandra beach is one of the most beautiful and popular. In the beautiful bay with shady pine forests, fine white sand and crystal-clear water, you truly feel like you’re in paradise. Particularly suitable for families with children is the beach “Orange Beach” on the east coast of Sithonia. Children can splash around in the clear, shallow water. Meanwhile, parents can relax on the beach and enjoy a beautiful view of Mount Athos.

Cybersecurity: the tourism sector is caught in the crossfire of hackers

These days, the number of hacker attacks on the travel and tourism sector is increasing more and more. It is therefore becoming increasingly urgent for those responsible to find a suitable prevention system.

Below, you can learn more about the impact and what it all means for individuals.

Cyber attacks in the tourism sector are on the rise

Looking back on the pandemic years, the worst seems to be over now. Nevertheless, this time is still in the bones of many. The travel industry is likely to feel the same way. The Covid 19 virus has hit them particularly hard.

However, this may not seem like it at first glance. Even at the peak of the pandemic in 2020, the travel and tourism industry still contributed a total of 121.9 billion US dollars to gross domestic product. By 2028, this figure is expected to grow to 512 billion US dollars.

With these numbers, it’s no wonder that cybercriminals are also taking notice of the sector. This has been particularly evident in the last 2 years, as their attacks on the industry have become more frequent. The problem is that the attacks are not only becoming more frequent, but also becoming more sophisticated.

So the travel and tourism industry has now come to a clear conclusion: cybersecurity must become an absolute priority.

The unique challenges facing the travel and tourism industry

But it’s not just the revenue that makes the tourism sector such a popular target for hackers. For her, it is also convenient that this area is so strongly focused on the Internet. Whether it’s payments, bookings or marketing measures – almost everything takes place online here. And in the wake of the Corona pandemic, these online interactions have of course increased again. For cybercriminals, this means that they can use this industry to access sensitive data and also large sums of money.

Safety measures that every travel and tourism company should take

If customer data is lost as a result of a hacker attack, the company in question must expect a loss of prestige and, as a result, a loss of customers, as well as high fines. Especially if the data was not sufficiently secured.

Every company should be aware of this and under no circumstances do without basic security measures. These are, for example:

  • the use of secure websites
  • the use of strong passwords
  • Using reputable antivirus programs and updating them regularly
  • Control over who has access to what data

and so on.

However, these basic security measures no longer seem to be sufficient. A sound prevention system is needed.

How consumers can protect themselves

Of course, it is the responsibility of travel and tourism companies to ensure that you can book with them safely. But everyone here is also responsible for themselves in a certain respect. After all, there’s no 100% guarantee anywhere that your data won’t fall into the wrong hands.

We’ll tell you what you need to look out for when booking a flight, hotel or anything else online.

  1. Stay away from public networks

VPN while traveling
Surf safely with VPN when traveling, Image: Kaspars Grinvalds / shutterstock

Public networks are questionable anyway when it comes to security. Therefore, they should avoid them if possible. But what you definitely shouldn’t do is enter personal information somewhere when you’re logged into a public hotspot. There are often cybercriminals there who are just waiting for them to access information.

All kinds of purchases, as well as bookings and reservations, are therefore better made via your own home network.

2. Use a VPN

With a VPN, you create a protected network over which your data is transmitted in encrypted form. This means that all their online activities are well protected from the eyes of unauthorized persons. This way, no one can easily access their personal information. Their IP address is also not displayed.

This makes a VPN an optimal solution if you are on public networks.

3. Beware of scams

Unfortunately, you can also come across fraudulent offers in the travel sector again and again. To then have to find out on the day of arrival that you have booked accommodation that does not exist in reality is of course an absolute horror idea.

However, there are a few points where you can tell that an offer is likely to be a scam:

  • Extremely cheap offers
  • Booking via unknown travel providers
  • No personal communication with the provider
  • Imprint on the website is missing or incomplete
  • Increased negative reviews on the Internet
  • Provider provides false information about travel locations or accommodations
  • the pictures all look very professional and staged
  • any seals of approval do not lead to the exhibitor’s website

If it has actually happened and they have fallen for a scam, then it is time to act quickly. First of all, you can try to get the money you have already paid back from your bank.

Everything that has to do with the fake booking, from messages to receipts, should be kept in any case. They need this if they then file a criminal complaint with the police in the next step.

If they are still unsure whether they have fallen for a scam, they can contact the responsible consumer advice centre. Often the question can be clarified here.

Top tips for renting a car in Mallorca

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If you take a trip to Mallorca, you will certainly not only want to lie on the beach on the beautiful Balearic island, but also explore special areas. This is possible if you choose the right rental car for you and if you also know the traffic rules on the island. We give you the most important tips on what to look out for when choosing.

Attention traffic rules – everything is different in Mallorca

Mobility in Mallorca is important, car rental in Mallorca with ROIG works optimally. But before you get behind the wheel and set off, you need to learn the traffic rules on the island. You can drive from the age of 18, but you can only rent a car from the age of 21. The driver’s license must have been in your possession for at least one year.

It is important to note that there are special speed limits in Spain . In built-up areas, you are allowed to drive a maximum of 50 km/h, and 90 km/h is allowed on country roads. Motorways are an exception, where you are allowed to accelerate up to 120 km/h. The regulations are also strict with regard to drinking and driving. If you have had your driving licence for less than two years, you may have a maximum of 0.3 per mille in your blood, drivers with a longer driving licence may have a maximum of 0.5 per mille in your blood!

It pays to book your rental car in good time

Car Rental Palma
A visit to Palma de Mallorca is a must, Image: lunamarina / shutterstock

Prices are regulated by supply and demand. When many bookings come in, cars become more expensive. Therefore, book before your trip and then you can look forward to your dream car. Also keep in mind that you plan the return carefully, one day is valid for 24 hours at the car rental. A sufficient time buffer is therefore important.

Insurance is also crucial. If you choose a fully comprehensive insurance with no excess, you don’t have to worry and you can drive through the streets of Mallorca. However, it should be borne in mind that the statutory minimum insurance in Spain is just 350,000 euros.

Don’t be deterred if the car rental company talks about other insurances. All you need is a fully comprehensive insurance with Mallorca policy, so you can drive carefree.

Check your chosen car directly at the reception

When you receive the car, you must first check it for possible errors. Before you have put your car through its paces, you should not even get in. Always keep a handover log and make a note for all defects. Important points to consider are the tread depth, the light and the lenses. If there are any defects here, have them noted. If you see stone chips, do not accept the car, as this may be a source of danger for you.

Also take a look at the wiper fluid and cooling tank and check the additional equipment for functionality. Always remember, everything you have not recorded in the handover protocol will be charged to you later in the worst case. However, a reputable car rental company will make sure that this protocol is created satisfactorily for both sides and that you do not have to worry.

Five gadgets that should not be missing on any trip

There are numerous small aids that can make life much easier during a trip. What goes into the travel bag is mainly due to the holiday destination and individual preferences. Some don’t want to do without the luxury of moist toilet paper when they’re on the go, while others want to have their favourite book with them at all times and wherever they go. But these five things have their justification on almost every trip.

Gadget #1: Power Bank

Hardly anyone wants to do without their smartphone on holiday. However, the battery is put under a lot of strain. Because especially when traveling, the phone becomes a multifunctional tool.

To find the most beautiful sights and interesting places, the navigation system helps. Once they arrive at their destination, motifs such as the Eiffel Tower, BigBen or Central Park in New York are captured as photos and published on various social media channels.

It can happen that the charge level of the battery reaches the threatening zone as early as noon. In this case, a power bank makes it possible to recharge the smartphone quickly and easily.

This is especially recommended for longer excursions into nature, where the power supply is not guaranteed all the time. A power bank can be used to charge the tablet in addition to the phone or to operate a Bluetooth speaker for a longer period of time.

The crucial question, however, is: What capacity is needed for this? As a guideline, a power bank with an output of 20,000 milliampere hours (mAh) can fully charge a tablet about one to two times and a standard smartphone about two to four times.

Gadget #2: Swiss Army Knife

Swiss Army Knife Holiday
The famous Swiss Army knife should not be missing on any camping holiday, Image: Panwasin seemala / shutterstock

Many holidaymakers are of the opinion that the good old Swiss Army knife only has a nostalgic use. However, this depends entirely on the type of trip.

This gadget is not only of great importance when camping or in the wilderness. Anyone who has ever bought a bottle of wine for a romantic evening for two on the beach and failed to organize a corkscrew to open the bottle will appreciate this multifunctional tool.

Depending on the design and price range, the pocket knives are equipped with different functions. For a camping holiday, at least the following minimum equipment is recommended:

  • Knife
  • Scissors
  • Bottle opener
  • Can opener
  • Saw
  • Screwdriver
  • Pliers

When choosing the right gadget, you should pay particular attention to quality. No-name products often look quite chic, but usually fail in an emergency. Among the most renowned manufacturers are Victorinox and Leatherman.

Gadget #3: FFP2 masks

Admittedly, the term gadget may be a little exaggerated for FFP2 masks. Nevertheless, it makes sense to always carry a few of them in your hand luggage. This means that it is possible to follow the corresponding local regulations at any time.

What many people don’t know is that there are also enormous differences in quality when it comes to FFP2 masks. Therefore, it is advisable to rely on a brand manufacturer such as Virshields. Because this goes hand in hand with the certainty that the masks were developed and sustainably manufactured in Germany .

In addition, there are also special products that can make life much easier for different target groups. For many spectacle wearers, for example, condensation when wearing the FFP2 mask is a major problem. Since the exhaled air has a higher temperature than the lenses of the glasses, they fog up constantly. The Fogfree mask from Virshields has an inlay incorporated that provides an additional sealing effect and thus effectively prevents the lenses from fogging up.

Gadget #4: Cable ties

Even if the mention of cable ties as a gadget initially triggers incredulous amazement in many people, these small plastic ribbons turn out to be a real miracle cure during a trip and can often be the last resort in many situations.

With a cable tie, for example, the travel trolley can be easily and securely secured against quick access if no lock is available for it. To do this, simply connect the sliders of the zipper with the help of the cable ties.

Even if the slider of a zipper on the jacket is lost, a cable tie can be used as a replacement. This means that it is still easy to open and close the shutter.

If the shoelaces break in the middle of the wilderness, cable ties will also help here. The eyelets of the shoes can be temporarily connected with a cable tie, providing enough stability to continue the hike comfortably.

But that’s not all. The cable ties can also be used to reseal packaging, clean drains or fix rolled-up garments to save space. The options are almost endless. There are numerous other possible applications on the Internet.

Gadget #5: Sleep Mask

What kind of complaining is it about hotel rooms that are too bright at night. Some people can sleep excellently in all conditions, but others need certain conditions to do so. And in addition to peace, darkness is part of it here.

But what to do if the curtains in the hotel room are too bright or the blinds simply let too much light through? Much easier than fixing the problem in the room is to counteract it with a simple gadget. A sleep mask is placed directly on the face and darkens any environment, no matter how bright, easily and quickly.

But here, too, there are considerable differences in quality between the different products. To avoid unsightly and painful rashes, it is advisable to pay particular attention to skin-friendly material when choosing the right sleep mask.

Cotton sleep masks are not only soft, but also breathable and absorbent. This enables them to absorb sweat and release moisture. If you want to spend a little more money, you can also go for models made of velvet or silk. These also have a slightly cooling effect and are particularly suitable for allergy sufferers.

Furthermore, care should be taken to ensure that the elastic band can be adjusted exactly to your own head size with the help of a strap or Velcro fastener. After each holiday, the sleep mask should be cleaned with some detergent and water.

Small, but pretty and nice: Cala Bona

The internationally known and popular holiday resort of Cala Bona is a small district of the municipality of Son Servera in the comarca of Llevant on the east coast of Mallorca in the Bahia de Arta near Cala Millor. Cala Bona currently has about 1,100 permanent inhabitants, most of whom live from tourism. Thanks to its picturesque location in the middle of a natural harbour and the many beautiful and clean beaches, the relatively small Cala Bona has a special attraction and a lot of charm and attracts many tourists who like to return as regular guests. Travellers will also find a wide range of high-quality apartments and hotels on site, as well as fantastic restaurants, numerous shops and many excursion options in the surrounding area.

100 years ago, people here lived from fishing and not from bathers

The exact historical origins of the place are not known, but it is probably rightly assumed that the inhabitants here, as in the entire surrounding area, lived almost exclusively from fishing, agriculture and maritime trade for centuries. It was only about 100 years ago that the first holidaymakers “got lost” in this pleasantly quiet area in the northeast of Mallorca. In 1924, the first guest house was opened on site, laying the foundation for today’s approximately 15 hotels in and around Cala Bona. With the boom in tourism on the Balearic Islands from the 1960s onwards, the rapid urbanisation of Cala Bona and the larger neighbouring town of Cala Millor began. Since the late 1970s, the two places have developed considerably from picturesque fishing villages with little tourism to tourist hotspots and have now grown together practically at the height of Calle de Rafel.

Strolling, walking, cycling and enjoying specialities with a view of the Mediterranean Sea

Port of Cala Bona
Small cozy harbor of Cala Bona, Image: lunamarina / shutterstock

Thanks to the fundamental and generous redesign and expansion of the local harbour and the adjoining seafront promenade in 2006, Cala Bona has become even more attractive and attractive to visitors. In addition to the new harbour master’s building and a petrol station for pleasure boats, a specially designated and now intensively used cycle path from Son Servera via Cala Millor and Cala Bona to Sa Coma was also built at that time. Bicycles of almost all shapes and sizes can be rented by the hour or day from various providers along the route, including the versions with four or six wheels, which are particularly popular with families with children and tour groups. The main beach of Cala Bona is easily accessible from the pedestrian promenade, also suitable for the disabled, sun loungers and umbrellas can be rented for a fee. In the summer season, lifeguards are on duty there during the day.

The audience in Cala Bona is well mixed by nationality and season

Opposite the main beach there is also a manageable children’s playground, which is ideal for smaller children up to 4 years old. In Cala Bona itself there are few water sports facilities, but in Cala Millor , which is within easy walking distance and quickly accessible, there are numerous offers in this regard. In the months of June, July, August and September, Cala Bona is mainly frequented by families and younger couples. In the low season in spring and autumn as well as the months of March, April, May and October, older couples tend to spend their holidays here, and in winter between November and February, many pensioners also like to spend their holidays here. Especially with holidaymakers from Great Britain and Scandinavia, Cala Bona is quite popular as a quiet and tranquil holiday resort all year round. Groups of young people with a desire for entertainment and nightlife, on the other hand, are more drawn to the south of the island and to the resorts of Magaluf, Palmanova and Santa Ponsa.

The harbour is almost always very busy and a good starting point for excursions

However, regardless of age, the main meeting places for both locals and holidaymakers are the marina and the adjacent seafront, where restaurants with excellent Spanish and Mallorcan, Scandinavian, British, Italian and Asian cuisine are lined up. During the high season in July, August and September, however, it is advisable to reserve a table in good time, especially for lunch and dinner, due to the large crowds. In summer, souvenir dealers, street artists, jugglers, fire-eaters, musicians and dancers often meet on the promenade. There is a lot to see and observe here almost around the clock. On the “Paseo Maritimo” (beach promenade) there are also several car rental companies for rental cars. The two taxi ranks in Cala Bona are located at the entrance to the port, on the corner of Calle de la Tramuntana, as well as in the central Calle Llambies, opposite the main beach.

You can also travel well and safely to the big happy festivals by train

A narrow-gauge railway runs daily from June to September every few minutes between about 9.30 a.m. and 8.00 p.m. from Cala Millor via Cala Bona to Costa de Los Pinos. With a train change in Cala Millor, the nearby resorts of Sa Coma and S’Illot can also be easily reached. The trains as well as the streets of the area are particularly well filled before and after the big “Fiesta Sant Joan” every year on or around June 24th. Other traditional folk festivals in the region take place from mid to late July and in the last week of September. Recommended at any time of the year as scenic destinations for excursions and day trips from Cala Bona are the viewpoint at the end of the Avenida del Pinar in Costa de Los Pinos, the rocky bay of Cala Marjal next to the golf course of Son Servera and the imposing “Caves of Drach ” of Porto Cristo.

Mountains, nature, history – the state of West Virginia

When you think of West Virginia, most people probably think of the Blueridge Mountains, which are sung about in “Country Roads”, an absolute evergreen. In fact, this mountain range hardly touches the state. Nevertheless, West Virginia is best known as the state of mountains, wide landscapes and not least because of its long and important history in the big picture of the USA. The “Mountain State” is an important part of American history and has not only testimonies of this history to offer visitors, but above all a variety of national parks and impressive natural sights.

West Virginia is the area of the Appalachian Mountains and is shaped by them. The northwesternmost of all southern states not only has a long history to offer, but is also known for its beautiful mountain panoramas, which can actually be reached anywhere in the state. You can make a big distinction between the areas that have been developed for tourism over time and now serve as a tourist attraction for visitors to the state and the partly still untouched landscape that can be found far away from the cities of West Virginia.

West Virginia State Capitol in Charleston
West Virginia State Capitol in Charleston, Image: Sean Pavone / shutterstock

In general, life here in the state is closely linked to traditions and people are quite proud of the fact that life in this state turns a little slower. Industrialization is not a big problem and at the same time you have a beautiful nature that perhaps best represents the former America that the first colonists found. At the same time, many millions of visitors find their way to the Mountain State every year to enjoy this nature and to come to rest far away from the big cities and let nature work its magic on them.

To this day, West Virginia is 75% covered by forests, which is another reason why so many Americans but also tourists from overseas come here for an adventure in nature. In addition, there are around 50 state parks around a wide variety of natural sights. If you are looking for a little culture outside of nature, you will find interesting variety in Charleston, the capital of West Virginia, with its unique southern charm.

The Most Important Adventures in the Nature of West Virginia

New River Gorge Bridge, West Virginia
New River Gorge Bridge, Image: Sean Pavone / shutterstock

A good example of the lack of tourist infrastructure and thus the principle of adventure are the Allegheny Mountains. Although there are some paved hiking and cycling trails here, all in all, the mountains are still in their natural state today. Apart from a few small log cabins and villages with shops, you are completely on your own here. Mountain climbing, hiking and mountain biking are among the most popular activities in this part of West Virginia. Hikers will certainly get their money’s worth here with the untouched nature – but should prepare sufficiently for such a hike.

The view from the New River Gorge Bridge reveals the beauty of the West Virginia landscape, especially in the Indian summer. Here you can see the play of colours of the leaves that can be seen down in the valley. Of course, you can descend directly into the valley and go on a hike there as well. However, you should keep in mind that these areas are also rather undeveloped and you can sometimes be on the road for days before you meet the next sign of civilization. Good preparation should always be standard when hiking on your own in West Virginia.

If you like it a bit more infrastructure, you should stop by North Bend State Park. Here they cater to visitors from all over the world and offer not only various facilities for leisure, but also accommodation in all price ranges. With guided tours you can explore the landscape of the state park and in the evening you can exchange ideas with other visitors in a nice restaurant or at the bar about the great nature of West Virginia.

Discover the historic towns of West Virginia

In addition to the impressive nature, West Virginia also has a lot to offer culturally and historically. Whether it’s Charleston, Lewisburg, or Fayetteville, all of these cities have their own stories to tell. In Lewisburg, for example, you will find a variety of historic buildings that survived the Civil War and tell a story. By the way, a trip to Harpers Ferry – a real memorial on the Civil War Path that tells about the Civil War and its history – also fits in with this. The ghost stories of Lewisburg are suitable for young and old visitors and combine historical narratives with a little creepiness.

Charleston is above all the right place to discover the culture of West Virginia from a different side. The hospitality of the southern states is still very important here and in the many restaurants you not only get to see something of the hearty cuisine of the states, but can also learn more about the Civil War and the history of the state in one of the many museums. All in all, West Virginia is the place to be if you want to immerse yourself in the original America and learn more about this special stretch of land.