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Cuba – Pearl of the Caribbean

PatrickJullien
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Cuba – Pearl of the Caribbean

The Caribbean is a place of longing for stress-ridden Europeans and offers the best conditions to unwind. White-powdered beaches, surrounded by the turquoise sea with its magical coral reefs, while the bright red sun sends out its cosy warmth in the blue fairytale sky – that’s what the Caribbean stands for. A fun-loving population with its diverse musical performances does the rest to get tourists in the holiday mood.

Culturally, Spain’s colonial buildings provide insights into a past that meant the development of power for the conquistadors and slavery for the locals. Cuba is the largest island in the Caribbean and a unique adventure, not least because of its special political position.

The most important information at a glance

Cuba stands out for its elongated shape, with the capital Havana in the west and Santiago de Cuba in the east marking the political centers. While the southern coast of Cuba is reached by the Caribbean Sea, on the northwest coast it is the Gulf of Mexico and on the rest of the north coast the Antilles that shape the current of the sea from the Atlantic.

In the Antilles and on the south coast, the most spectacular hotspots for divers are located on beautiful coral reefs. Cuba’s nature is diverse, so excursions into the interior with its numerous national parks are worthwhile. A round trip through Cuba is highly recommended: Erlebe-kuba.de/rundreisen/.

The capital Havana

With its approximately 2.4 million inhabitants, Havana is the undisputed center of Cuba. For centuries, Havana was the most famous city in the heyday of colonialism and piracy. Legendary is the Malecón, Havana’s majestic waterfront where the nightlife takes place. The old town of the metropolis, founded by the Spanish in 1519, is a single open-air museum.

In the center of Havana, the skyline is dominated by the Capitoline Hill, the Cathedral, the Grand Theater, the National Museum of Fine Arts and the Presidential Palace of San Salvador de la Punta, which was converted into the Museum of the Revolution of 1959. They are all representative magnificent buildings that exude great fascination both inside and out.

Cuba is an Eldorado for classic car fans – in Havana, vehicles built before 1959 still dominate traffic. If you want to take it more leisurely, you can make do with one of the typical bicycle rickshaws, the so-called “bicis”, or a horse-drawn carriage. Both trips are offered to tourists.

The most beautiful places in Cuba

The dreamlike beach life offers holidaymakers stability in reliable sunny weather. Excursions into the hinterland provide variety and increase the suspense. We present three top destinations:

Viñales Valley – Halong Bay in the dry

Valley of Viñales, Cuba
Valley of Viñales, Image: oliverdelahaye / shutterstock

In the west of Cuba, the Viñales Valley is a wildly romantic and enchanted area that represents a kind of Halong Bay in the dry. The huge karst mountains that have piled up due to corrosion in rock layers that are around 170 million years old awaken this association.

Waters flow around the bizarre mountain landscape, which have undermined the mountains. Majestic waterfalls enchant the eye, while dark green forests and eerie caves are other highlights. UNESCO chose the region around the national park as a cultural landscape of the people.

No view in the cloud forest – Sierra Maestra National Park

A rugged mountain landscape with its seemingly impenetrable valleys and slopes in the middle of the rainforest is what makes this area in southeastern Cuba so appealing. Since the humidity in the mountains rarely drops below 90%, the area is constantly immersed in a thick fog, so that the rainforest here is a cloud forest. The interplay of bizarre mountain formations and lush green rainforest vegetation creates a dramatic atmosphere. Mountaineers can climb Pico Turquino, the highest mountain in Cuba at 1974 meters.

Island of Youth – Where the Pirates Lived

Divers get their money’s worth on the Isla de la Juventud. In the heyday of pirates in the Caribbean, the island was both a hiding place and a retreat for the pirates in the Caribbean. Robert Louis Stevenson had Cuba’s largest offshore island as a panorama in his mind’s eye when he wrote Treasure Island .

Two-thirds of the island is permeated by forests, while many beaches have a dark hue due to the rich marble deposits on the coastal stretches. The Isla de la Juventud is considered a paradise for hikers, is inhabited and the island’s capital is Nueva Gerona.

 

 

The most beautiful camping destinations in Normandy

PatrickJullien
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The most beautiful camping destinations in Normandy

In addition to the south of France with its numerous campsites, the Normandy coast is one of the most charming landscapes in France. The coast of Normandy is considered to be particularly rough. Normandy is located on the English Channel and has a unique nature that once attracted many artists and painters. The secluded beaches, which are particularly popular, but also the white limestone cliffs and the picturesque landscape are still a popular destination today. The villages with cobbled streets are also popular with tourists. But not only the unique nature, but also the interesting history attracts many people. Even today, the traces of the 2nd World War can be visited in the form of museums and cemeteries.

Huttopia Calvados-Normandie

Huttopia Calvados-Normandie is located on a former castle park in the Calvados region. Surrounded by a view that is typical of the region. Cow pastures, apple trees and fields surrounded by hedges. The harvested apples are used to make the famous sparkling wine, “Route du Cidre” can be tasted. There are also some cheese shops where you can taste delicious Camembert and Livarot cheese. On the nearby beach, sports such as sailing or speed sailing can be practiced. Here it is also possible to enjoy a nice ride with a horse on the beach or in the woods.

Camping de la plage

The campsite, which is located directly on the sea, is located in Houlgate, a municipality of about 1,689 inhabitants. It is known for its very long and wide sandy beach and is located on the flower coast. The campsite is terraced. This means that everyone who spends their holidays at the campsite has a sea view. Even without a camper, a nice holiday can be spent there, because the holidaymaker can also spend the night in a shingle trailer, holiday home, mobile home, chalet or teepee.

Camping Le Cormoran

Beautiful beach in Cotentin
Beautiful beach in Cotentin, Image: CatherineLProd / shutterstock

Right in the heart of the Cotentin and Bessin marshes, you’ll find Camping Le Cormoran. This campsite is located directly by the sea. In addition, there is an aqua park in the immediate vicinity, which is not only fun for children, and also a glass-covered indoor pool. In the petting zoo, chickens and dwarf goats can be petted. The famous World War II landing beaches, also known as Utah Beach, are within walking distance. This beach is not only beautiful, but also historically very interesting. In Cherbourg, the nuclear submarine “Le Redoutable” can also be visited. If you visit the Cité de la Mer, visitors will be introduced to the sea, because the museum revolves around life in the sea.

Camping Haliotis

Camping Haliotis is located in the bay of Mont Saint Michel and also on the banks of the Couesnon. At Camping Haliotis, a path leads past the typical salt marshes. This path leads to the bay of the monastery mountain Mont Saint Michel. In this bay you have a very nice view. There is also a lot to discover in the old town of Saint Malo. There it is only bursting with history. The city takes visitors back to the time of buccaneers and corsairs and shows the remains of a medieval castle. There are also book illuminations of monks to see there.

Camping L’Anse du Brick

Camping L’Anse du Brick is located on the Cotenin peninsula. The lighthouse of Gatteville, which is located in the immediate vicinity, gives you a good overview of the entire area. There is also an interesting planetarium here. The Ludiver Planetarium invites you to embark on a journey into space not only on rainy days. In the traditional fishing port of Saint-Vaast-la-Hougue, seafood such as mussels, scallops or oysters can be tasted, but there are also local products. At the Ravenel watermill, some local products are offered, and the watermill also offers taster courses and shows visitors how bread is baked there.

Camping Léry-Poses

If you are looking for a break in nature, you are in good hands on the picturesque banks of the Seine. On one part of the Seine, Normandy draws its loops, there are spacious pitches on a beautiful campsite, which have been separated by hedges. There is also electricity and a water connection here. It is also possible to rent a small cabin. The cabins have a pretty, covered veranda. The location of the campsite is perfect for all cyclists, as the “Seine à vélo” cycle path runs from Paris to Honfleur and Deauville. On the bike tour, the medieval town of Pont de l’Arche can be visited, as well as the nearby fortress Château Gaillard. Richard the Lionheart had this fortress converted into a fortress by 6000 men in a short time.

Camping La Forêt

Also in a loop of the Seine is Camping La Forêt. Camping La Forêt is located in the middle of the forest. The Abbey of Jumièges, is in the immediate vicinity and is only a short walk away. She has a lot to tell and through a tour with a 3D tablet, the story is brought to life here. The city of Rounen is also a good destination for explorers. It insists on a lot of historical events and the 100 towers are also waiting to be discovered. In addition, the stolen statue of Notre Dame de Barre-y-Va can be searched for on a playful treasure hunt with the help of investigator Arsène Lupiy-Vas. An exploration trip through the city of Rive-en-Seine is also worthwhile. The ride takes place in a Dyane. A Dyane is an older car, which was very popular, from the Citroën brand.

Camping Château de Martragny

Camping Château de Martragny is very idyllic. A romantic fountain, a beautiful carp pond or the view into the courtyard of the old barns. The barns and stables at the castle park are now used for Pommeau tastings. In the castle park, two hundred years of history are waiting to be explored. The tapestry of Queen Mathilde in Bayeux Cathedral is also well worth seeing.

Result

Normandy is worthwhile for anyone interested in camping. There is a lot to discover, but Normandy is also worth it to just relax and enjoy nature. The many campsites with the not boring activities invite you to visit Normandy again and again after a first visit.

What is the best way to discover Germany?

PatrickJullien
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0
What is the best way to discover Germany?

Germany offers visitors from all over the world an incredible amount to see, whether picturesque cities or spectacular natural landscapes. But many people wonder what is the best way to discover and travel to all the different corners of the country. Of course, personal preference plays a very important role: some people prefer a short flight, while others prefer to explore the country leisurely by train. Due to the excellently developed infrastructure, there are numerous options, all of which have their own advantages and disadvantages.

You should inform yourself well from the beginning and make the appropriate preparations. However, this already starts with the planning of all accommodations, which it is best to book in advance. If you fall in love with a certain corner while exploring Germany, you can find attractive apartments on this site , for example, so that you can even live there long-term.

Explore Germany by plane

Berlin, Museum Island
The Museum Island in Berlin, Image: Boris Stroujko / shutterstock

If you mainly stick to the larger cities of the country, then the domestic flight connections are the best way to cover longer distances within a very short time. The flight from Berlin to Munich takes just over an hour. In addition, of course, there is the journey to and from the respective airport, which can usually also take one to two hours. The rule is that the further the distance, the better the total flight duration scales compared to the alternatives.

Flights are no longer quite as cheap as they were a few years ago. Fuel inflation, airline bankruptcies and additional climate protection requirements have made the low-cost flights of yesteryear virtually disappear from the scene. In addition, there are often the comparatively high costs at the airport, if you want to have a bite to eat before departure. Flying is therefore now one of the more expensive options. In general, it is only recommended if there is no fast railway line or easily passable motorway.

Travelling around the country by train

If, on the other hand, you prefer to travel by train, you will get your money’s worth in Germany. The popular cities of Berlin and Munich are only 4.5 hours away from each other by train. At first glance, this seems to take much longer than the almost one-hour flight time. But on the other hand, you save a lot of important time by eliminating check-in. In addition, the main train stations of both cities are located directly in the city center, so a long journey is usually not necessary.

The other advantages of the train are obvious: the journey is more pleasant and you can see much more of the surroundings. Travelers enjoy more freedom, can move more freely and, for example, make a detour to the on-board bistro at any time. In addition, the costs are now comparatively cheap. For example, the train journey costs between 50 and 70 euros if you book early, while a flight costs an average of 100 euros. There are also often attractive discounts on train journeys, which are simply impossible for flight connections due to the high tax burden.

The bus as a cheap alternative

Dresden, Semperoper
The Semperoper in Dresden, Image: TTstudio / shutterstock

Ultimately, however, there is still an excellent road and motorway network in Germany. This can serve as a perfect complement to traveling by plane or train, also because it can sometimes be much cheaper. If you want to travel from Berlin to Munich with a provider like Flixbus, you ideally only pay 15 euros for the route. So there is a lot of potential for savings compared to the train or plane. On the other hand, the travel time on this route also increases to 7.5 hours.

Nowadays, you don’t have to do without amenities on the bus. The seats are comfortable and there is usually good Wi-Fi that allows access to the internet even on long journeys. There are power outlets to charge your phone and even a small selection of snacks and drinks. Depending on the route and coach, you will even find a toilet on board. However, this is usually only the case on longer routes with correspondingly large buses.

By car even to the most remote places

Ultimately, your own car or a fancy rental car are the best options for exploring even somewhat remote places without any problems. Especially in rural areas without a large number of tourists, there is only a limited possibility of being able to rely on public transport . In such a case, your own car can make the most of all the advantages. While it’s usually the most expensive option (if you factor in acquisition or rental costs), it also offers you the most freedom by far.

The drive from Berlin to Munich takes about 6.5 hours, but offers the advantage over the bus that you can stop at any time if necessary. Travellers can therefore stretch their legs at the many well-equipped motorway service stations in Germany without having to wait for predetermined breaks. All other destinations can also be explored at your own pace. Holidaymakers from abroad should of course inform themselves beforehand about all the general conditions on German roads.

Holidays at the most beautiful campsites in Germany

PatrickJullien
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Holidays at the most beautiful campsites in Germany

Camping holidays are very popular. Owners of camping cars have it comparatively comfortable and can start an activity practically at any time of the year. You will not only benefit from particularly comfortable sleeping places, but also from practical showers and convenient cooking facilities. If you still want to make a cozy outdoor fire with proper firewood, you will find specially marked places for this purpose on many campsites.

Open fires at campsites

Most campsites have specially prepared fireplaces or barbecues available. The necessary firewood, on the other hand, often has to be provided by yourself. If you budget cleverly, you have a small supply of kiln-dried logs stowed away in his caravan. With its low moisture content, this ensures that the fire burns for a long time and therefore only rarely needs to be refilled. After all, no one wants to spend an unnecessary amount of money on a few relaxing days. And the luggage will also thank you. Because the less load the car has to carry, the lower the fuel costs. But where in Germany are holiday-hungry people who are on the road with caravans and tents drawn to?

Germany has many beautiful campsites

There are some nice campsites where it is allowed to make a fire. Of course, it is important to comply with the respective regulations and only light your firewood where it is explicitly allowed. At open fireplaces, stove-ready firewood made of beech, oak, ash, alder or birch can serve excellently. Chopped firewood also fits into smaller grills and provides long-lasting heat over which meat and vegetables can be well prepared. This is especially true for kiln-dried logs, which contain no more than 18% residual moisture.

Camping in beautiful Bavaria

With our finger on the map, we move from Bavaria up to the beautiful island of Rügen. We start in Schliersee, where a popular campsite is located. Here everyday life can rest for a while and the soul can dangle. If you want, you can connect with other holidaymakers and spend a cosy evening with them around the campfire.

The Black Forest, a camper’s paradise

For all those who are planning a camping trip with their family, the campsite in the Münstertal is recommended. Here, young and old will find a place with a long tradition. For all those who want to prepare something culinary with their kiln-dried firewood, you can even buy the right barbecue food here. There is even a swimming pool and sauna on site.

Holidays in Thuringia

Thuringia is also an excellent place to camp. Located directly on a babbling stream, visitors can let their gaze wander through nature. The family-run facility offers all kinds of possibilities. If you don’t want to barbecue every day, you can find yourself in the existing restaurant and be served here.

Camping on the island of Rügen

With child, dog and cone we go to the beautiful island of Rügen. Here you will find a campsite as it is in a picture book. Away from the crowds of tourists, the visitor can enjoy peace and quiet. But the beach is not far away and the sunset can be experienced in all its glory with a cozy campfire. Again, be sure to ask about the applicable regulations before you make a fire on the campsite!

Hygiene when camping: these products should not be missing on your trip

PatrickJullien
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0
Hygiene when camping: these products should not be missing on your trip

For many people, camping means freedom and adventure. However, if you are not on a campsite with freely accessible sanitary facilities, but opt for a pitch in the great outdoors, the usual personal hygiene can bring some challenges. By the way, wild camping is not allowed in Germany, but in other holiday countries it is often different. Therefore, find out about the applicable rules in the destination before you travel. We’ll show you which hygiene products you should definitely pack and give you tips for a relaxed, clean trip .

For daily personal hygiene, washing your clothes and washing dishes, we recommend that you take the following utensils with you on your camping trip :

  • 2-in-1 products (shampoo & shower gel)
  • Soap
  • Hand sanitizer
  • Toothbrush
  • Toothpaste
  • Hairbrush
  • Deodorant
  • Nail Case
  • Toilet paper
  • Dishwashing and laundry detergent
  • Microfiber towels (save space & dry quickly)
  • Feminine hygiene items
  • (Folding) Canisters for fresh water

Especially if you are camping outdoors, it is advisable to use biodegradable products to protect untouched nature.

Hygiene on the campsite

Especially for adventurers with little camping experience, we recommend, for example, a campsite with sanitary facilities and washing up facilities. Compared to buying or renting a camper, a tent is cheaper in many cases and a popular alternative, especially for short stays .

In contrast to camper vans, which are usually equipped with at least one sink, you are dependent on the sanitary facilities of your campsite when camping. In addition to toilets and sinks, showers are usually also available. In addition, in most cases you will also find devices at the campsite where you can wash your dishes.

Even if the sanitary facilities are cleaned regularly, they can become contaminated more quickly , especially in the high season with an increased number of holidaymakers. Coarse dirt, such as sand on the toilet seat, can be easily removed with a damp cloth. For hygienic disinfection of the toilet seat, however, we recommend disinfectant wipes pre-soaked with alcohol. You can find these, for example, in the ARNOWA online shop for disposable medical products. When buying, look for the product property “bactericidal” in order to specifically fight bacteria during disinfection. The label “limited virucidal” shows you that the disinfectant wipes kill the most important enveloped viruses and thus reduce the risk of infection.

Furthermore, you should be careful not to walk barefoot, especially in the toilet cubicles and shower rooms. The risk of athlete’s foot infection is enormously high, especially when running on warm, damp ground. We therefore advise you to wear suitable footwear such as flip-flops or flip-flops.

If you don’t find soap in the sanitary facility, it can be useful to bring your own bar of soap on your trip. Alternatively, you can pack a small bottle of hand sanitizer . Of course, this does not replace washing your hands with soap in the long run, but it serves to protect your hygiene and ensures that your hands feel pleasantly clean.

When buying a hand sanitizer, as with disinfectant wipes, we recommend that you pay attention to the product properties “bactericidal” and “limited virucidal” in order to deactivate important germs, bacteria and viruses. If you have sensitive skin, product properties such as “dye-free” and/or “fragrance-free” are other important product features. Hand disinfectant products, which are also moisturizing, provide your hands with moisture during disinfection at the same time.

Hygiene tips for travelling in a camper van

For camping enthusiasts who do not yet have their own camper van, but still want to travel mobile, a rented van is a sought-after alternative. The equipment of a camper is usually very individual. While a sleeping accommodation, seating and a small kitchenette with sink are usually standard equipment , showers and toilets are not always found in these.

If you are on a campsite with your camper, you will of course also have the opportunity to use the sanitary facilities. If, on the other hand, you look for a place in the great outdoors, personal hygiene is more difficult.

Create water reservoirs for hygiene when camping

For daily, short personal hygiene, the sink of your camper can usually be sufficient. However, keep in mind that your water tank has a limited capacity and therefore needs to be refilled regularly with fresh water.

You should also keep the limited water availability in mind when it comes to washing clothes . If necessary, you can of course wash your T-shirt by hand, but this will consume a lot of water. Since laundromats are usually very common and can be found in almost every city, you can therefore also use a washing machine in the laundromat , especially on longer trips. If you wash your clothes in a laundromat, it is also a good idea to wash the bed linen at regular intervals for good hygiene.

If you already know in advance that you will not be able to fill up the fresh water for a long time, a folding canister with a small supply of water can help. However, you should keep in mind that a filled water canister also takes up space, which is often already scarce in a camper.

There are various options for filling your water tank, depending on the holiday region. Below is a list of places that can provide you with fresh water :

  • Camping: If you are staying at a campsite anyway, you can of course fill your water tank there. Otherwise, it’s often worth just asking, even if you haven’t booked a pitch. Often you can fill up your fresh water for a small amount even as a non-visitor.
  • Gas stations: You can ask at any gas station if you can fill up your water tank. There is usually an outdoor tap available for this purpose, to which you can attach your hose. If this is not the case, a hose can also be attached to a sink if necessary.
  • Service stations: Similar to petrol stations, service stations are a popular spot for obtaining fresh water.
  • Drinking fountain: Particularly in southern Europe, but also in numerous German cities, publicly accessible drinking fountains are now available to the population. You can’t connect a water hose here. However, if you have a foldable water canister with you, you can fill it and then transfer the water into the tank of your camper van using a funnel.
  • Supermarkets: Since the water from the tap in some countries contains chlorine or, in the worst case, is even contaminated, it can be advisable to buy canisters of drinking water directly in the supermarket. Therefore, be sure to find out about the drinking water quality in the destination region before you start your trip.

Save water on your camping trip

Despite having a freshly refilled tank, it may be necessary to save water on your trip. However, since good personal hygiene contributes to your own well-being, we will introduce you to some shower options if you do not have public sanitary facilities available.

  • Showers in swimming pools, rest stops or at freely accessible beach showers
  • Laundry in the sea, lake or river
  • Use of a mobile camping shower
  • Short shower with water from a canister

For brushing your teeth or for the most necessary body washing , the sinks in gas stations or rest stops are available to you. In addition, it can be helpful to use hand disinfectant gel regularly, e.g. if there is no possibility of washing hands in sight. However, you should make up for this with soap as soon as you can.

Another difficulty on the trip with the camper van can be the lack of a toilet . It would be advisable to look in advance on the planned route for opportunities to go to the toilet. In addition to rest stops, which often offer toilets for their customers, you can also visit restaurants, cafés or public toilets.

In addition, there is also the possibility of a mobile camping toilet. However, keep in mind that this requires additional storage space and must be emptied regularly . In most cases, these are so-called cassette toilets. You will find stations for emptying primarily at campsites. Here, too, it can be helpful if you get an overview of the disposal stations in your area beforehand. To empty it, you can remove the toilet from the device and drain the waste water at the disposal station. To protect yourself from faeces, viruses, bacteria and other pathogens , it is recommended to wear disposable gloves . You will also find a large selection of reliable disposable products in the ARNOWA online shop. Whether you choose nitrile, latex or vinyl gloves is up to your personal preference. While nitrile gloves are among the all-rounders among disposable gloves, latex gloves score with a high grip. Vinyl gloves, on the other hand, are particularly soft and enable a high tactile sensitivity just like the other two glove materials.

Tip: You should also keep disposable gloves on for the subsequent cleaning of the toilet!

Cleanliness in the motorhome with its own wet room

Compared to the camper van, motorhomes usually have their own wet room, i.e. a small washroom, including a permanently integrated toilet. This can be particularly advantageous if you opt for a secluded pitch in nature or if you are travelling longer distances where there are no freely accessible sanitary facilities.

Since both the fresh water and waste water tanks of a motorhome have a larger capacity than that of a camper, you can usually get there longer with your water supply.

Nevertheless, it is also necessary here that the toilet and the waste water tank, which fills with shower and flush water, are emptied and cleaned regularly. While with mobile toilets the container is taken away and emptied at a disposal station , larger motorhomes in particular are equipped with permanently mounted toilets. These are connected to the waste water tank. In this case, you can connect the hose of the tank directly to the emptying station.

Regardless of whether you choose a camping site with sanitary facilities or a pitch in the countryside: Make sure that the water tank is sufficiently filled and get an overview of public toilets, refilling stations for fresh water and disposal stations in advance. So nothing stands in the way of your next camping adventure!

 

 

 

 

Tips for a safe holiday in Dalmatia

PatrickJullien
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Tips for a safe holiday in Dalmatia

Although Croatia is a small and relatively young country that experienced the Patriotic War about 30 years ago, this Adriatic country is particularly safe.

According to the Global Peace Index, Croatia is the 15th country on the list of the safest countries in the world. Various factors were taken into account, such as acts of violence, potential terrorist attacks, the number of killings, social security, etc.

So you can travel to Croatia without worries and enjoy your vacation in peace.

Book accommodation with a verified landlord

If you have already decided on the beautiful Croatian region of Dalmatia and want to spend your vacation there, then there is only one thing left –
to rent the accommodation
! Treat yourself to a beautiful holiday home and enjoy your holiday to the fullest.

When booking a holiday, it is important to book accommodation with a verified landlord or secure websites. Because you certainly don’t want to make a long trip to find out that your accommodation is already rented to someone else.

Why
book your accommodation with MyLuxoria
to be sure that you get what you paid for. On their website, decide on a luxurious villa or a beautiful holiday home where you can enjoy a dream holiday with a beautiful panoramic view and a large outdoor pool.

Singles

If you have decided to go on holiday alone, you don’t have to worry at all. Because you will surely be warmly welcomed throughout Croatia. Women traveling alone also don’t have to worry about their safety in Croatia at all.

The locals are friendly and helpful and will always be happy to help you. Many Croatians speak English and German, so you can easily communicate with them as well.

Traffic

If you are traveling to Croatia with your own car or a rented car, be careful when driving. Do not drive too fast and above the permitted speed, because you certainly do not want to pay fines on vacation.

If you use public transport, take good care of your belongings.

Pickpocketing

On public transport, such as buses, trains or trams, you should make sure that you do not leave your belongings unguarded or walk around with an open bag when there are crowds.

Although pickpocketing is really rare in Croatia, you should be sure and not give the thieves a reason to do so.

Our tip is to leave the most important documents and the most money in your accommodation. Bring only some money to the city or the beach, which you need for coffee or lunch, for example. On the beach, you should also take good care of your belongings and close all your bags.

Result

Although small, the whole of Croatia is a safe country where you can walk carefree even at night. Even the children and young people use public transport and can come home alone without fear.

Croatia is therefore also well suited for all solo travelers, especially for women.

Since some regions, such as
Dalmatia
, are quite popular and many tourists sometimes create crowds in the city center or on the beach, it is always good to take care of your belongings and money.

 

Frankfurt Regional Court overturns Ryanair conditions

PatrickJullien
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0
Frankfurt Regional Court overturns Ryanair conditions

The German Regional Court of Frankfurt has overturned Ryanair’s controversial general terms and conditions, thus facilitating passengers’ compensation claims. The present case concerned the terms and conditions of the Irish low-cost airline Ryanair. For the Passenger processing and compensation the company allowed itself particularly long processing times. In addition, Ryanair wanted to exclude legal service providers from taking on customer claims. Compensation should only be paid directly to customers.

If this practice had prevailed, it would have meant the end of legal tech services for flight reimbursement. However, in the opinion of the Frankfurt Regional Court, all the criticized paragraphs in Ryanair’s terms and conditions violate the European Air Passenger Rights Regulation. The company could neither invoke Irish law, nor deny passengers what they consider to be the easiest way to compensation.

Brief summary of the ruling

According to a decision of the Frankfurt court on September 24, 2020, passengers on board Ryanair flights can claim compensation. They do not have to accept long processing times, nor do they have to do without the help of third parties or the assignment of their claims. The terms and conditions of the Irish airline are invalid in Germany because they violate air passenger rights under EU law.

What are the chances of an appeal?

The company announced that it would have the case decided on appeal and, if necessary, go through all instances. So it remains to be seen whether the decision will hold up in the long term. However, the ECJ has ruled in many cases relating to air passenger rights in a very consumer-friendly way. The source of the complaint about the Ryanair terms and conditions is also very serious. The present lawsuit was brought by the Wettbewerbszentrale Frankfurt, which has already been successful with similar lawsuits. In any case, the conditions for a precedent in Germany are very good.

What does this mean for passengers?

The Frankfurt Regional Court has ruled that the terms and conditions do not allow Ryanair to disadvantage its customers in the implementation of EU regulations. According to EU Regulation 261, consumers can claim compensation in the event of denied boarding, flight cancellations and delays. The latest decision means that passengers have more rights when flying from or to the EU and that they can more easily claim compensation in the event of flight delays or cancellations.

What should airlines do to comply with consumer law?

Airlines have their own terms and conditions, which we often don’t read, but when we read them, our eyes glaze over. Not only do airlines offer a basic service that allows passengers to get from A to B, but they must also meet certain requirements, such as compensation and baggage loss procedures. As a consumer, you have rights, and it is important that you know what they are. Airlines need to know their obligations under European consumer law to avoid hefty fines.

Tips for dealing with airline customer service?

If you’ve ever had to contact an airline with a complaint, you know that it can be difficult and often uncomfortable. However, there are some simple steps you can take to make dealing with customer service as painless as possible. If you notice that you are being turned down by the service, you are free to seek help from an online service provider like Flugrecht.de.

8 unique destinations on the IJsselmeer

PatrickJullien
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8 unique destinations on the IJsselmeer

The IJsselmeer or IJsselmeer in Dutch is not what the name suggests. In Dutch, the sea refers to an inland lake. This largest lake in the Netherlands was created in 1932 by the construction of the Afsluitdijk (Afsluitdijk) at the junction between the former Zuiderzee bay and the Wadden Sea (Waddenzee).

After the tides in the IJsselmeer had disappeared, land could then be extracted from the water by draining. The city of Lelystad, which was only founded in 1967, is not only a particularly beautiful example of the settlement of the polders that have been created in this way, but also one of 8 unique holiday resorts on the IJsselmeer, which promises its guests a varied and unforgettable holiday with its picturesque fishing villages, cycle paths over dams and through wide nature as well as good conditions for sailing and surfing.

1. Lelystad

The capital of the Dutch province of Flevoland is a good starting point for those who like it varied. Whether it’s shopping at Batavia Stad Fashion Outlet, a vivid story about the draining of Flavoland and Dutch shipping, fun and thrills at Walibi Amusement Park , or watching wild horses and white-tailed eagles in Nieuw Land National Park and the Oostvaardersplassen Nature Development Area, there is something for everyone in and around Lelystad.

2. Enkhuizen

An impressive drive over the dam with water on both sides takes you from Lelystad to Enkhuizen. The small harbour town with typical Dutch flair invites you to take a relaxing walk along the canals and have a coffee in the picturesque city centre.

3. Hoorn

Historic tower Hoofttoren in the harbour of Hoorn
Historic tower Hoofttoren in the harbour of Hoorn, Image: Boris Stroujko / shutterstock

The IJsselmeer does not lead to Cape Horn, but it does lead to where the name comes from. In the 17th century, the Dutch port city of Hoorn was an important seat of the East India Company and the starting point for many of the undertakings that shaped the Dutch Golden Age. Visitors can explore this in the Westfries Museum on Roode Steen, the central town square, while the 20th century comes back to life on a small island at the harbour. The Museum van de 20e eeuw is housed in the city’s former prison.

4. Schokland

There is even more history in Schokland. Actually, one should say “on Schokland”, because this was an island before it was drained. Its shape can still be seen today, although Schokland is surrounded by land far and wide. With the designation of Schokland as a World Heritage Site, UNESCO has erected a monument to the technical masterpiece on the IJsselmeer as well as to the achievements of past cultures that lived their lives here with and in the fight against water 10,000 years ago.

5. Volendam

Volendam, IJsselmeer,
Volendam, Image: Resul Muslu / shutterstock

The quaint colorful wooden houses of the typical Dutch fishing village have made it a popular tourist magnet. Anyone who lets themselves be carried away by the cheerful hustle and bustle today has no idea of the dark history hidden behind the cheerful facades of the houses. The interactive museum Experience Volendam immerses its visitors in the isolated, Catholic world of Volendam during the heyday of Calvinism and makes the dark sides of poverty and religious zeal tangible.

6. Makkum

With all the history and culture around the IJsselmeer, you should not forget that the inland lake also offers classic bathing holidays and water sports opportunities. However, not every place actually has a beach. Makkum does. In addition, sailors, windsurfers and kitesurfers often find ideal conditions here. If you’ve had enough of the water, you can see it on a trip over the Afsluitdijk and get to the Casemate Museum with dry feet. In the former bunker complex from the Second World War, it is told how Dutch soldiers confronted the German forces in May 1940.

7. Urk

Urk also has a beach to offer, and a particularly large, child-friendly one at that. But not only that. The nearby harbour and lighthouse provide a picturesque backdrop to end the day in one of the many restaurants and cafés in the atmospheric fishing village and to realise that Urk was once an island.

8. Lemmer

Lemmer on the border with Friesland brings together all the attractions of the IJsselmeer in one place. Water lovers can enjoy the beach or sailing and surfing. If you are looking for Dutch flair, walk along the many canals that run through the town. And lovers of history and engineering will find the Wouda Pumping Station (Woudagemaal) an impressive testimony to the triumph of progress that gave rise to the IJsselmeer. The steam-powered water pumping station is the largest still functioning of its kind in the world and proves this in spectacular fashion a few times a year when it envelops the area in white steam and demonstrates how new land was wrested from the water in the twenties of the last century. Guests can take to the skies themselves on a hot air balloon ride and admire the beauty of the IJsselmeer from a bird’s eye view.

A holiday on the IJsselmeer may not be a holiday by the sea. Instead, guests bathe in a former sea beech, which has been transformed into a freshwater lake by human hands, and walk through typical Dutch fishing villages built on the former seabed. From shopping to cycling and hiking to numerous museum visits and attractions for the little ones, there are plenty of activities to suit all tastes in these eight special resorts and the neighbouring villages. Whether alone or with the whole family, Holland can be experienced in a very special way on the IJsselmeer.

Culinary journey through Italy – pure enjoyment

PatrickJullien
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Culinary journey through Italy – pure enjoyment

Italian cuisine is one of the best in the world. In addition to pizza and pasta, however, it has far more highlights to offer. For example, numerous excellent wines, of which there are very different varieties depending on the region. A typical Italian menu consists of three courses. The first course is pizza or pasta, followed by meat or fish and finally the meal is rounded off by a sweet dessert. Each course can be accompanied by its own wine. At the end there is an espresso. But what are the ingredients that make Italian cuisine so distinctive?

Olive oil

Italy, and Tuscany in particular, is known for its virgin olive oil. The earliest evidence of olive cultivation in the world comes from the Livorno area on the Tuscan coast. In the past, oil was so important that the land was inherited not in meters, but in the number of olive trees.

The olives are harvested between October and November, when the olives have the perfect mix of ripe and almost ripe state to ensure the right acidity in the product. To be officially considered extra virgin olive oil, the acidity must be below 0.8%, with the risk of too high acidity if harvested late.

Once the olives are picked from the trees, they are taken to a mill. While some larger growers have their own on-site mill, most smaller growers have to go to a local oil press. Since the pressing must take place as soon as possible after the harvest, the mills keep appointments throughout the day and all night during the oil season.

The olives are placed on a grate that is churned up to remove dirt, grass and the like from the olives. They are then subjected to a first cold pressing. The product obtained in this way is “extra virgin olive oil”, which has a rather green colour and can be consumed raw. The remaining pulp can then be pressed again with heat to create “extra virgin olive oil” that is used for cooking. Another chemical extraction can be done to obtain only “olive oil”. However, most Italians say that this is best used to polish the furniture.

Extra virgin olive oil is a good fat that can even lower cholesterol and other heart problems. Freshly pressed extra virgin olive oil is rich in antioxidants, minerals and vitamins. When heated, many of these properties are lost. That’s why Italians drizzle this oil over soups, boiled vegetables, salads, meat or on toasted bread with a little salt (the original “bruschetta” recipe) instead of cooking the oil with the dish. Fresh bread and raw seasonal vegetables can also be dipped in the oil as a tasty and healthy appetizer.

Here you will find an extensive selection of olive oil and other Italian delicacies!

Italian coffee

It’s certainly no secret that coffee is an integral part of Italian culture. Coffee probably came to Italy around 1500 via the Venetian ports through trade with countries in the Middle East and Africa. From Venice, coffee then spread to the rest of Europe (cf.).

After Pope Clement VIII declared in 1600 that coffee consumption was a very Christian activity, it immediately became popular throughout the peninsula. However, it took about 45 years before the first coffee house was opened in Rome in 1645. Exactly 300 years later, the first espresso machine was developed in Milan. Since then, both espresso and cappuccino have become popular coffee drinks around the world.

Italians drink about 14 billion espressos annually, which accounts for about 60% of the coffee sold in the country. Less than 15% of the coffee drunk is drunk as a cappuccino and only a little less as “caffè corretto” (an espresso with a shot of grappa or other liqueur). One in ten coffees is espresso with a dash of milk (“macchiato”).

Cappuccino and other lattes (such as caffè latte milk with coffee) are usually only served as breakfast coffee, as Italians consider the heavy and nutrient-rich milk to be too much for an after-meal drink. Therefore, Italians drink an espresso or other lighter coffee throughout the day. At home, Italians usually prepare their coffee in a moka pot on the stove.

Bruschetta

Bruschetta
bruschetta, the popular Italian appetizer, Image: Foxys Forest Manufacture / shutterstock

Probably the most famous appetizer in the Italian restaurant is bruschetta, a baked bread that is traditionally spread with olive oil, salt, pepper and a little basil. In our country, the variant with tomatoes, garlic, basil and olive oil is the most common. In the country itself, however, there are many more variations of bruschetta, for example with cheese, cured meats or olive tapenade.

Tortellini

A popular Italian pasta dish is the tortellini, a ring-shaped pasta packet that is often filled with traditional ingredients from the region (cheese, meat, or a mixture of both). Similar to ravioli, this Italian classic comes from Emilia. The very best tortellini in the country can be found in Bologna.

Ravioli

An absolute highlight of Italian cuisine is ravioli, a dish that consists of stuffed pasta packets. No one really knows where the ravioli originated, because both Venice and Tuscany are vying for the title. What is known, however, is that this delicious dish can be found all over the country, especially wherever there is authentic home cooking.

Orecchiette pasta

When it comes to Italian pasta, it’s worth noting that each region of the country has its own pasta dishes and sometimes even its unique pasta shapes. A particularly unique form of pasta is the orecchiette, so called because it resembles “little ears”. This pasta shape comes from the Puglia region in southern Italy. Puglia’s cuisine is typically very vegetable-heavy, and so the dishes prepared with this pasta are no exception. Among the most popular dishes are orecchiette in tomato sauce and orecchiette with rutabaga tips.

Risotto

One of the best places to enjoy risotto is Milan, where the local dish on the menu is called risotto alla Milanese (a simple risotto dish made from saffron-spiced rice). Elsewhere in the country, this creamy broth dish is popular in bars, taverns, and restaurants. The risotto is available in countless delicious variations, with vegetables, fish, meat, tomato sauce, Parmesan and much more.

The best online activities while traveling!

PatrickJullien
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The best online activities while traveling!

“The journey is the reward!” This old wisdom is often correct. But many travelers simply want to get to their vacation destination as quickly as possible and prefer to sleep through the night on the way there or chase away the long journey time with various activities. Digitization has provided valuable services here in recent years. Because the possibilities to pass the time during a trip have multiplied through numerous feasible online activities. The best of them can be found in this article.

Book the best tours and excursions

If you want, you can get an overview of which attractions are waiting for you at your holiday destination on the plane, train or car. Depending on the location, the possibilities range from visiting the most important sights to unforgettable multi-day tours.

The problem with this is that often long waiting times have to be taken or you are “fobbed off” during a loveless mass tour. With apps such as “Get your Guide”, it is possible to book a personal tour guide during the trip, who will show you the best places and corners at your holiday destination.

In contrast to the sometimes windy local providers, the prices here are transparently shown and there are no unpleasant surprises in this regard. The quality of the offers is guaranteed by a rating system in which customers can award grades for their experiences.

Best real money casinos: Why gamble at your holiday destination?

Even if the holiday trip leads to gamblers’ paradises such as Las Vegas or Monte Carlo, this is no reason not to pass the time in online casinos during the journey and to practice for the big appearance at the Bellagio.

But here, too, it is important to rely on a reputable provider so that the holiday budget is not already gone before the trip. The search is quite simple: Best real money casinos are compared in detail here. Above all, attention should be paid to the entry bonus of the providers. Because when making your first deposit, it is possible to double your stake and also get a few free spins.

Online games make you lonely? Not this one!

If you want, you can also pass the travel time with a game on your smartphone. But somehow the contact with the other travelers is lost when everyone is always staring at their own screen and doesn’t care how the others are doing.

But there are also numerous games that can be played against each other on a laptop or smartphone. One of the classics, for example, is Quizduell. Because here there is not only the opportunity to compete against millions of anonymous opponents, but also to challenge friends or family members. The aim is to answer knowledge questions from a wide variety of categories. For example, if you travel to London or Dublin and want to take part in a pub quiz there, you will find an ideal training opportunity here.

The famous “City, Country, River” can now also be played via its own app. You are also welcome to define the categories yourself. The boring “car brand” can then be replaced, for example, by categories such as “hip influencers” or “typical of the 2000s”.

The famous Angry Birds are known to almost everyone. What few people know, however, is that in the “Angry Birds Friends” version, tournaments can also be held against other players.

Listen to audiobooks for free

If you want, you don’t have to wait until you arrive at your holiday destination to be enchanted by exotic landscapes and foreign cultures. Even on the way to your holiday destination, it is possible to take a little mental journey and be transported to another world while listening to an audiobook.

With a little know-how, the content can even be consumed for free. For example, on sites like vorleser.net, there are more than 750 free audiobooks and radio plays legally available as streams or for download. Among them are numerous classics by well-known authors such as Heinrich Heine, Jules Verne or Arthur Schnitzler.

With the “Free Version” of Spotify and Deezer, it is not only possible to listen to your favorite music, but also numerous audiobooks and podcasts. For example, works such as “Tschick” by Wolfgang Herrndorf or “The Measurement of the World” by Daniel Kehlmann. One of the best travel podcasts is “Microabenteuer und die weite Welt”, in which Rebecca and Joris talk about their travels to exciting countries.

Looking for holiday partners for the trip

If you don’t have a partner, you don’t have to travel alone or spend all your time alone at your holiday destination. On numerous platforms such as urlaubspartner.net, joinmytrip.com or travel-friends.com, it is possible to search specifically for a suitable travel companion. All you need to do is register on the website, enter the desired holiday period and destination and specify your personal requirements.

The problem with this, however, is that it is often too late for this during the trip. So what to do? While waiting to be admitted to the plane, looking for other solo travelers probably looks a little strange.

Instead, classic online dating apps such as Tinder can be used to network locally. But honesty is important. In your own description, it should be clearly stated that the search should only be a local travel acquaintance. That doesn’t mean that it can’t develop into an interesting holiday flirt.

Check the weather situation on site

Before booking excursions or tours at the holiday destination, it is advisable to find out a little about the weather conditions for the next few days in advance. As a rule, a separate app is not required for basic information. A simple Google search already provides the most important data on the expected temperatures and possible storm capriciousness. If you still want to know exactly, you can use weather apps such as MeteoBlue, AccuWeather or WeatherPro.

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