All about travel

Alabama: Visiting the Cotton State of the USA

United States

PatrickJullien

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16. April 2022

Alabama: Visiting the Cotton State of the USA

Alabama is one of the best known among the so-called southern states of the USA. For a long time, Alabama was associated with racial segregation and slavery because of its history. Because in this state, plantation agriculture predominated economically. Cotton was mainly grown, which is why Alabama is also known as the Cotton State . In the past, dark-skinned slaves from Africa were often used to harvest cotton. Today, Alabama is trying to get rid of the bad image that has arisen more and more, which is also succeeding. Because Alabama has a lot to offer visitors.

There are several larger cities, such as Birmingham or Montgomery, that are worth visiting. There, as well as in the smaller towns of the state, there are numerous bars and clubs where live music is played. Alabama has produced many great musicians such as Aretha Franklin, Nat King Cole and the Rolling Stones. The musical spectrum that is played here ranges from blues to country and gospel to rock and jazz. In addition, there are interesting museums of all kinds to visit in Alabama and exciting outdoor adventures to experience.

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A visit to the lively industrial metropolis of Birmingham

Skyline of Birmingham, Alabama — View of the Birmingham skyline, Image: ESB Professional / shutterstock

Birmingham is the largest city in Alabama with a good 215,000 inhabitants. Many well-known jazz musicians were born here, for example Billy Valentine. If you stop off in Birmingham, you should definitely visit the Birmingham Museum of Art. Founded in 1951, the art museum has a collection of no less than 17,000 exhibits. In addition to paintings and drawings, sculptures, graphics and video installations are also on display. The thematic arc that the collection of the Birmingham Museum of Art covers is enormous. Because the works on display come from a wide variety of cultures and epochs.

On display are African, Native American, European and Asian works of art. Contemporary art is represented in the Birmingham Museum of Art as well as works of art from the Renaissance or Baroque periods. If you prefer to exercise in the fresh air rather than in a closed building, you should visit the city’s zoo and botanical gardens in Birmingham. Both facilities are located right next to each other. There are about 550 animals in the zoo , which can be attributed to 180 different animal species. Among them are some that are already threatened with extinction. The Birmingham Botanical Garden has numerous expertly landscaped themed gardens and the impressive Long Life Lake Bridge, which is considered the main attraction of this botanical garden.

Learn all about space in the Rocket City of Huntsville

Huntsville, Alabama — In Huntsville, (almost) everything revolves around space, Image: Philip Arno Photography / shutterstock

Huntsville is only the fourth largest city in Alabama, but you should definitely stop by the city in the far north of the state. Especially if you are enthusiastic about technology and space. Because Huntsville is not called Rocket City for nothing. With the Redstone Arsenal, a rocket development center and test site of the US Army is located here. And NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center, where the Apollo space program was developed, can also be found here. Visitors can visit the US Space and Rocket Center in Huntsville. Here you can learn everything about the American space program and visit rockets and rocket parts. In addition, there is the opportunity to feel like a real rocket scientist and astronaut in flight or underwater simulators. If you are more in the mood for dignified art, visit the Huntsville Museum of Art. The collection focuses on American and regional art. Around 2,300 exhibits can be visited, including works by Andy Warhol.

Alabama’s pristine white coast: the city of Gulf Shores and Orange Beach

Alabama’s coastline is not necessarily one of the longest in the USA, but the beaches of the city of Gulf Shores, which has only about 12,000 inhabitants, easily make up for the lack of space with breathtaking beauty. The beaches here have pristine white and extremely fine-grained quartz sand, which shimmers in the sun in a very special way. Nestled between Gulf Shores and Orange Beach is Gulf State Park. The beach section there is three kilometres long and invites you to take relaxing walks on the beach. However, Gulf State Park has a whole host of other exciting things to do.

You can play golf, kayak, sail, surf or dive in the park’s man-made reefs. Deep sea fishing is also possible here under guidance. In addition, a wide variety of themed tours by boat are offered. Here, tourists can, for example, familiarize themselves with the world of dolphins and visit them in their natural habitat. If you prefer to move on land rather than in the water, Gulf State Park has a variety of well-marked hiking and mountain biking trails. These lead through pine forests as well as through swamps. If you are lucky, you will meet a bald eagle on the way.

Among other things, alligators swim in the park’s lakes, which is why you should strictly follow the instructions regarding any bathing bans here. Spending the night in Gulf State Park is also no problem. In addition to lodges that can be rented, there is also a campsite. Visitors interested in history also have the opportunity to learn about the history of the Native Americans and the civil war that once took place here. The Baldwin County Heritage Museum takes an in-depth look at local history surrounding Orange Beach. The Fairhope Museum of History focuses on the history and traditions of the region’s Native Americans.

Antibes: the pearl of the Côte d’Azur

France

PatrickJullien

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15. April 2022

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Antibes is located in the very southeast of France, directly on the Riviera. The famous cities of Cannes and Nice are each just a stone’s throw away. But to spend a fabulously beautiful holiday, you don’t necessarily have to travel to the neighbouring towns of Cannes or Nice, because Antibes also has a lot to offer.

The seaside resort with around 75,000 inhabitants impresses above all with its picturesque old town, which can boast winding streets and a genuine French attitude to life. In addition, on the azure blue Côte d’Azur, which is right on the doorstep, there are wonderful sandy beaches where you can relax or do sports according to all the rules of the art. And art and culture lovers will not miss out in Antibes either, as the city combines several high-ranking museums, such as a Picasso Museum, in its urban area.

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Unwind on the beaches of the Côte d’Azur

Antibes is a popular destination for beach vacationers. This is no wonder, because it is teeming with white sandy dream beaches where you can relax. Just a few steps from the old town is the Plage de la Gavotte. This is a small beach that is a little hidden in a bay near the marina Port Vauban. Despite its good accessibility, the Plage de la Gavotte is rarely overcrowded. The fine-grained sand is interspersed with stones and rocks, which gives the beach a very rustic appearance. Very popular with locals and tourists alike is the Plage de la Salis, which can be reached via the entrance to the peninsula at the small port of Port de la Salis. Families with children also like to cavort here. Just a few kilometres south of the town centre is the quieter La Garoupe beach, which is lined with a small chapel and a romantic lighthouse.

A walk through the winding old town of Antibes

Plage de la Gravette, Antibes — Sunset at Plage de la Gravette, Image: Sergey Dzyuba / shutterstock

The old town of Antibes is perfect for walks. The small alleys are narrow and winding, in many places they even seem a little enchanted. Drivers are not welcome here, there are very few parking spaces in the city center area, and walking is also much more flexible. There are a lot of quaint buildings and backyards to discover. To do this, you stroll past small shops. The maze of alleys is repeatedly broken up by small squares, around which cafés, bars and also narrow bistros with outdoor seating areas are often grouped. The best conditions to take a short break and drink a coffee or an aperitif. You should definitely stop at the Marche Provencal. This is a covered farmers’ market where all kinds of specialties from the region are offered. If you feel like it, you will find cheese, honey, fresh fruit and vegetables, meat and fish, flowers as well as fresh and dried herbs that have been grown in the region or collected wild. The market vendors are happy to let interested gourmets taste their spices. The best offer is at the Marche Provencal in the morning.

Visit the Château Grimaldi and the Picasso Museum

Château Grimaldi was built as early as the 12th century. From 1385 until the 17th century, it was used by the Grimaldi family, which gave it its name. After that, there were changing owners and the building was under equally changing use. For example, Château Grimaldi has served as a town hall, barracks and seat of various governors. In 1946, the artist Pablo Picasso moved into the venerable walls of Château Grimaldi, which is now home to the Picasso Museum. In addition to works created here by Pablo Picasso, there are also paintings and sculptures by other artists such as Nicolas de Staël or Max Ernst.

Die Festung Fort Carré

We then continue to the Fort Carré fortress, which is not far from the port. Fort Carré was built in 1553 on a small hill that was already located directly behind the port of Antibes. Initially, Fort Carré served to protect and defend Antibes and its harbor entrance. Over the centuries, the building has been expanded and rebuilt several times. The building, which is a listed building, is now open to the public and can also be visited inside. A visit to Fort Carré is also worthwhile for those who do not want to visit the interiors, because from the fortress there is a magnificent panoramic view of the historic old town of Antibes.

Antibes Cathedral

One of the city’s landmarks is undoubtedly the Cathedral of Antibes, which is located directly opposite the Picasso Museum. It is also known as Notre Dame de la Platea and may seem a little inconspicuous at first glance. More like a normal church than a cathedral. However, when you enter the cathedral of Antibes, the altar of the rosary immediately catches your eye, which is of a very special beauty. The Romanesque-style cathedral was built as early as the 12th century.

Why use a VPN when traveling?

All about travel

PatrickJullien

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15. April 2022

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Especially when traveling, it happens again and again that you want to use the Internet in the usual way. It often happens that you are faced with the problem that many things don’t work on the road. This is not only because many service providers on the Internet work in the same way in every country, but also because of the countries they visit. Many countries regulate the Internet for users. In China , for example, many services are blocked by the government and are not available.

A VPN offers the possibility that the internet works well in the same way in every country and that any service can be used without any problems. If you travel for work and are therefore dependent on the Internet, it is essential to pay attention to a possible restriction of Internet use before traveling abroad.

Some reasons that show the benefits of a VPN:

Internet restrictions due to political reasons
◦ Countries such as the USA, China or Switzerland limit many social media.
Free Wi-Fi is all too often not tap-proof
◦ you use WhatsApp, for example, for a free call and are listened to.
Online banking and other secure sites
◦ It often happens that online banking is not accessible from abroad, which can have fatal consequences in the event of theft of a mobile phone or laptop.
Non-existent net neutrality
◦ Unimaginable, but still possible that not the state, but a hotel or generally an operator of a freely available WLAN censors the Internet and thus restricts it.
Restricted media in general
◦ You try to watch a TV series or documentary on the Internet from abroad and get the message “only available in xxx”. This depends on how the license for the film or series is determined and therefore cannot be seen with a foreign IP.

All these restrictions are excluded with VPN use and the Internet can be used as usual.
VPN for Windows
is a possibility, especially if you need the Internet for work and need a secure data line for business purposes.

VPN for Windows can be installed easily and quickly and protects the laptop or PC from cybercrime excellently. Business data thus remains in the secure area and no one can access it. Due to the encryption, which is always carried out with VPN, you are always protected from data theft.

As long as you limit your travels to Europe and don’t use free Wi-Fi, VPN is not absolutely necessary. If, on the other hand, you use every opportunity to use a free Wi-Fi as a hotspot, it is strongly recommended to use a VPN not only abroad. Cost savings, data saving or other reasons take a back seat to cybercrime, because it can cause much greater damage. Cybercrime also exists within Europe. Almost every shopping center now offers free Wi-Fi for use. These networks are not properly secured and are therefore a risk factor, especially when it comes to personal data.

When traveling to certain countries such as China, the US, and even Switzerland, it proves to be an excellent solution to use a VPN. There is not only the risk of data theft, but also the risk of internet restriction.

Kentucky – Whiskey, Barbecue and Jazz

United States

PatrickJullien

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13. April 2022

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The bluegrass state of Kentucky in the central-eastern part of the USA enjoys great fame beyond the country’s borders. Even though it is not actually a historical southern state, many people associate the southern states with this state. The “Commonwealth of Kentucky” is particularly famous not only for its barbecues and culinary specialties, but especially for the production of American whiskey. Bourbon originated here and even today many of the most famous whiskey brands from the States are closely associated with the state. But there is more to see than old distilleries and steakhouses.

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Pure nature in the green Commonwealth of Kentucky

Louisville, Ohio River — The skyline of Louisville on the Ohio River, Image: Sean Pavone / shutterstock

If you are looking for impressive historical sights or a lot of entertainment, Kentucky is probably the wrong place for you. The state is considered one of the green meadows of the USA especially because of its nature and it is the sights of nature that attract vacationers from the USA but also from the rest of the world to the state. The name Bluegrass State, for example, comes from a special coloring of the meadows in autumn, when the extensive grassland shimmers almost blue. Even the Native Americans discovered these peculiarities for themselves and before their expulsion, countless tribes could be found in the fertile land.

The most important cities include the capital of the state, Frankfort, as well as the cities of Louisville and Lexington. Especially in the vicinity of Louisville there are many historic buildings and it is not for nothing that the city has built up the reputation of being a metropolis for country music and jazz. Beyond that, however, urbanization in Kentucky is rather low. Small villages and towns lead along the busiest roads in the state and holidaymakers will quickly find that they are welcomed with intense hospitality, especially here. One more reason why you don’t necessarily have to spend the night in the cities, but can also work your way through Kentucky on your own.

The most beautiful sights in the vast nature of Kentucky

Mammoth Cave National Park, Kentucky — Mammoth Cave National Park, Image: ukawajung / shutterstock

Mammoth Cave National Park is certainly one of the things you should see when visiting Kentucky. It is one of the areas where human activity can be detected well before the year 0 on the American continent. The underground caves are considered to be the most extensive area of their kind and finds by indigenous people probably date back up to 6,000 years. Between the 19. and In the 20th century, it was businessmen and slaves who explored the caves and painted them on the first maps. Over time, the caves with their underground waterfalls and the River Styx developed into a sight to see and have remained so to this day.

Not quite the Grand Canyons, but still an impressive area of canyons and the work of the Red River, is the Red River Gorge. A paradise for climbers and hikers, who can work their way along the bulges that the river of the same name has left in the landscape over millions of years and is now considered one of the most impressive natural spectacles in the state.

If you are looking for beautiful destinations for the hike, you should pay a visit to the Cumberland Falls. The falls in the southeastern part of Kentucky are now a state park in their own right and are crisscrossed by hiking routes that are well suited for both hikers and cyclists. The highlight, of course, are the many small and large waterfalls that the Cumberland River feeds and that run like a swath through the green landscape.

Experience Kentucky’s historic landmarks and culture

As a link between the southern and northern states, Kentucky is of course also an important part of US history and has some landmarks to offer that are worth a visit. For example, there is the Abraham Lincoln Birthplace National Historical Park, which commemorates the birthplace of the famous president. Not only the replica of the former huts is interesting, but also the memorial square that was built and the museum, which deals with the life of the so important president, whose work is of course also strongly connected with the fate of the northern and southern states.

The famous Fort Knox is also worth a visit, although you shouldn’t hope to catch a glimpse of the gold that is supposedly stored here. It is above all a historical museum for the history of the place. In addition, there are many works of the famous whiskey brands in the area that can be visited. But here, too, the expectation should not be that you are allowed to come to a whiskey tasting. This is forbidden in these works and no alcohol may be poured out to the visitors.

Finally, of course, you should also have seen the beautiful cities of Kentucky, with Livingston standing out in particular. The city is still a center of culture in the United States and has a particularly active nightlife with bars and music. In addition, it is home to many famous museums, which can boast exhibits from the history of the USA and especially the southern states, as well as dealing with exactly how jazz and country music came to Livingston.

Explore the world from Dortmund

All about travel

PatrickJullien

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13. April 2022

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If you are looking for the right departure airport for your next vacation, you will also come across Dortmund Airport more and more often in flight comparisons. The third-largest airport in North Rhine-Westphalia offers flights from easyJet, Eurowings, Ryanair, SunExpress and Wizz Air, among others. On its website , Dortmund Airport presents a travel guide with its destinations. We have picked out some highlights for you.

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Porto – Portugal’s secret capital

Porto, Duero — The Douro River flows through Porto, Image: Sean Pavone / shutterstock

Historic Porto unfolds in the north of Portugal. The port city is not only the second largest settlement in Portugal after Lisbon , but also the economic and cultural center of northern Portugal. Like Lisbon, the city is rich in UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The city is also known as the Baroque city throughout the country due to its impressive historical architecture. Here you can discover numerous sacred buildings with unique architectural styles.

The city owes its name to its location on the water: Porto – port in Portuguese – is located on the right bank of the Douro, just a few kilometres from the mouth of the river.

Rhodes

Rhodes is perfect for a holiday with the whole family. The numerous hotels offer entertainment for young and old. In addition, numerous sights are waiting to be explored by you. In the footsteps of the historical wonder of the world “Colossus of Rhodes” you walk in Rhodes Town. There is a special peace and quiet in Petaloudes – the Valley of the Butterflies. On the entertaining hike through the valley, you will meet numerous butterflies in a wonderful environment in the summer months. Another special destination on a Rhodes holiday is the white city of Lindos. The Acropolis found here is the postcard motif par excellence on Rhodes.

And the most beautiful: Due to the rather small size, all destinations can be reached quickly, regardless of the place of accommodation.

Vienna

If you want to spend your city holiday in Austria’s most populous city, you should bring one thing above all: time. One sight follows the other. The absolute highlight is certainly St. Stephen’s Cathedral on Vienna’s Stephansplatz. The main tower of the building, the South Tower, is 136.44 meters high. Numerous visitors then flock to the Hofburg. This was the residence of the Habsburgs in Vienna from the 13th century until 1918. Since 1945, it has been the official residence of the Austrian Federal President. Here you will find most of the Austrian National Library, the Albertina Museum, the Hofburg Church, the Augustinian Church and the Federal Monuments Office. A highlight is the Sisi Museum, which depicts the true personality of the famous queen, as well as the royal apartments of Emperor Franz Joseph and Empress Elisabeth. Zoo lovers will get their money’s worth at Schönrunn Zoo. The zoo, which opened in 1852, is now home to over 8,500 animals.

Our tip: Take a look at the city from the Ferris wheel at Vienna’s Prater.

Fuerteventura

The Canary Island is a popular destination all year round. Especially in the winter months, of course, when your heart only warms up in front of the fireplace at home.

Due to the constant winds, Fuerteventura is particularly popular with surfers and surfers. But of course, the island is also a perfect destination for the family due to its beautiful beaches and family-friendly hotels. If you also like to go shopping on holiday, the capital Puerto del Rosario with 40,000 inhabitants is recommended. This is where the life of the island pulsates. The city has some churches worth seeing, such as the Iglesia de Nuestra Señora del Rosario or the Iglesia Santo Domingo de Guzmán. At Ecomuseo La Alcogida, just a few kilometers from Puerto del Rosario, you can discover the traditional village life in Fuerteventura. The museum consists of a total of seven courtyards, which were built in traditional island architecture with natural stone from the surrounding area. In the courtyard, agricultural equipment, handicrafts and everyday necessities are exhibited.

At night, bars and clubs in downtown Puerto del Rosario open their doors and attract partygoers. Those who prefer it quiet can enjoy the picturesque beaches of the city, such as Playa Chica, which is located right next to the harbor.

Antalya

Even the Romans had a soft spot for the area around Antalya. Many sights that are still preserved today date from this time.

Antalya is still a fairly young city, but it has grown significantly in recent decades. This is also due to the fact that the city not only has a rich history and numerous sights, but also offers a particularly well-developed infrastructure for travelers and tourists. The nearby beaches and climate offer holidaymakers optimal temperatures from April to October.

An absolute highlight is Hadrian’s Gate. The gate was an important part of Antalya’s city wall and was built as early as the second century AD.

Wolfsburg, a young and up-and-coming city in Lower Saxony

Germany

PatrickJullien

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13. April 2022

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Wolfsburg, a young and up-and-coming city in Lower Saxony

Wolfsburg – the beautiful city is located on the eastern edge of Lower Saxony. When you think of Wolfsburg, the car manufacturer Volkswagen immediately comes to mind. Originally, the city was founded in 1938 for this very purpose – this is where the company’s employees were to live. Today, it not only attracts car enthusiasts, but is also the perfect destination for the whole family, nature lovers and sports enthusiasts.

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Arrival and accommodation

Volkswagen Arena, Wolfsburg — The Volkswagen Arena, Image: © WMG Wolfsburg, Tim Schulze

The best way to get there is by car or train. From the south, the A39 leads from Braunschweig to the western part of the city, via Braunschweiger Straße or Heinrich-Nordhoff-Straße you can reach the heart of Wolfsburg within a few minutes. If you are travelling from the northwest, you will come to the northern part of the city on the B 188. The main train station is located opposite the Autostadt, directly on the riverbank. The Hanover-Berlin high-speed line makes a stop here. Intercity and Intercity-Express trains from numerous major German cities also stop in Wolfsburg several times a day.

The Courtyard by Marriott Wolfsburg**** superior is an ideal hotel for an optimal stay, it is located in the middle of the Allerpark, with a panoramic view of the beautiful Allersee and sandy beach. For those interested in football, the Volkswagen Arena is within sight and can be reached in just a few minutes’ walk. This makes the Courtyard by Marriott the perfect place to stay for football fans and adventure seekers.
The luxury hotel The Ritz-Carlton, Wolfsburg is a slightly higher-priced place to stay when you pick up a vehicle, but it’s worth its hefty price tag with its spa offerings, unique artwork, and gourmet restaurants.
On the opposite side of the shore of the Allersee there is a spacious campsite in a quiet location. Behind the square, the Mittelland Canal flows along, several bridges lead over the crystal-clear water and invite you to go for a walk or a bike ride.
For wellness enthusiasts, we recommend the Hotel An der Wasserburg. Conveniently and centrally located, the hotel scores with 59 non-smoking rooms, a pool and a relaxed atmosphere in the gold bar.
If you like it quiet and familiar, you will feel at home in the Hotel Fallersleber Spieker in the old town of Fallersleb. The 48-room hotel scores with a rich breakfast buffet.

Our tip: Book a guided tour of the city so that you don’t miss any of the Wolfsburg highlights. Further information on sights, city tours and travel offers can be found on the portal wolfsburg-reisen.de.

What you should definitely see in Wolfsburg

View of the Autostadt, © WMG Wolfsburg, Tim Schulze

The most famous sight and highlight of Wolfsburg is clearly the Autostadt. Due to its central location in the city, it is easy to reach. One of the largest amusement parks in Germany stretches over an area of 28 hectares. The two glass car towers can be seen from afar, and inside there are new VW cars on 20 floors. Hundreds of buyers pick up their new cars in the Autostadt every day.

In addition to lush green spaces, landscaped ponds and benches, there are several exhibition rooms with novelties and museums that exhibit models from past times. If you have a driver’s license and want to sit behind the wheel of an SUV, such as a Touareg or Amarok, you should definitely take an off-road drive with a professionally trained trainer. You can also successfully master the off-road course right next door or book a guided ride through the city centre with the latest models.
Since 2007, the city has had a Designer Outlet. On almost 18,000 m² of sales space and in over 90 stores, world-famous brand products can be purchased.
If you want fun and action, you should definitely visit the Allerpark. There is a lot to discover for young and old on the grounds of the adventure park. In addition to sporting attractions such as the EisArena, the BadeLand, numerous outdoor fitness equipment, a high ropes course and beach volleyball courts, there is a huge beach, several restaurants with international cuisine and a footpath that leads once around the lake. A large car park on the Aller and in front of the Volkswagen Arena offer enough parking space.
In spring and summer months, cycling is one of the best sporting activities in the Wolfsburg area. From Magdeburg to Verden, the Aller Cycle Path runs parallel to the river that gives it its name.
Marvel, experiment, touch, inspire, fascinate – for over 15 years, the extraordinary phaeno world of experience has been a feast for the senses and captivates visitors far beyond the borders of Wolfsburg. Over 350 phenomena await you in a unique futuristic building, designed by world-renowned architect Zaha Hadid, which is one of the twelve most important modern buildings in the world.
Art lovers will find contemporary and modern art in the Kunstmuseum Wolfsburg. The museum, which opened in 1994, is home to works by artists such as Carl Andre, John M Armleder, Christian Boltanski, Helmut Federle, Gilbert & George, Douglas Gordon, Andreas Gursky, Damien Hirst, Anselm Kiefer, Gerhard Merz, Mario Merz, Bruce Nauman, Panamarenko, Julius Popp, Neo Rauch, Cindy Sherman and Jeff Wall. The collection comprises a total of more than 600 works.
People who are interested in the history and culture of the city will not miss out either. In and around the metropolis there are some castles and palaces to be found. The most popular are Wolfsburg Castle, after which the city was named, Neuhaus Castle and Fallersleben Castle. Wolfsburg Castle is located in the Alt-Wolfsburg district, where the historic city museum, the municipal gallery and the art association are located in addition to the building itself. Fallersleben moated castle and Neuhaus Castle can be visited by curious visitors. Today, both have their own museums and organize annual events and festivals.

Where to go after a busy day?

After an exciting day in Wolfsburg, it’s time for you to indulge in culinary delights:

Gourmets certainly think of Wolfsburg directly to the 3-star restaurant “Aqua” with chef Sven Elverfeld.
The best beers in the region can be found in the “Altes Brauhaus zu Fallleben” – where brewing is still done according to the German Purity Law. There are German classics to go with it. From Leberkäse to Sauerbraten
Creative, delicious and regional food awaits you at the Hotel & Restaurant Brackstedter Mühle. Our tip: The Brackstedt mill pan with medallions of beef, pork and veal – and hand-scraped spaetzle to go with it
Of course, you will also find an extensive selection of restaurants in the Autostadt. Particularly noteworthy are the in-house manufactories with delicious baked goods, the coffee roastery and the organic ice cream factory near the Škoda Pavilion.

A selection of other nice restaurants can be found in the Butler Gastronomy Guide

Result:

Wolfsburg is an up-and-coming modern city that became known far beyond Germany’s borders due to the automotive sector and the name Volkswagen. But they have now been able to convince themselves that the city has much more to offer. The city’s still youthful history makes it a unique specimen that everyone should have visited once or several times in their lives.

Around the world in 90 dishes

PatrickJullien

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12. April 2022

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In the Corona pandemic, many things had to be sacrificed. Carefree travel was part of it. Yet travel is so important to broaden horizons, including culinary ones. In a new Berlin museum, the two can now be combined in a wonderful way.

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The most beautiful disgust in Berlin

At the Disgusting Food Museum Berlin , visitors travel around the world in 90 dishes. Using selected examples, very different taste cultures and culinary traditions are presented. And as is often the case, people shy away from the strangeness of certain foods: Where are bull testicles or bull penis eaten? Where do people enjoy dog, sheep’s head or rotten fish? Where does the durian fruit produce a pleasant taste instead of a gag reflex? In which country is cheese made with mites and refined? The museum ensures that the feeling of foreignness towards such foods is reduced, because they are presented very beautifully, almost like in an art exhibition.

Prejudices in self-experimentation

In addition, the makers of the exhibition emphasize that they do not show objective disgust, but things that could be considered disgusting. In this way, visitors are confronted with their own prejudices, and they can overcome these prejudices at the museum’s Tasting Bar. In the Disgusting Food Museum Berlin, you can do what is strictly forbidden in the other museums: touching and nibbling. In this way, the worms, which were initially viewed with horror, become a delicacy. The self-experiment requires courage, and courage is rewarded. This is the quintessence of the museum.

Impressions from the Disgusting Food Museum

Foreignness pays off

Looking beyond one’s own nose ensures a better quality of life. This corresponds to a productive way of dealing with foreignness, which we often have to deal with in life. While the exhibition suddenly makes the foreign seem familiar, the seemingly familiar becomes strange again, seems downright strange: food that we buy in the supermarket unsuspectingly and without thinking. The Disgusting Food Museum Berlin shows the animal behind the sausage and that nutrition has something to do with animal welfare and the environment. No meat is grilled without animal husbandry, transport and slaughter. And why do we differentiate between farm animals and pets? The cat sleeps in our bed, and chickens, cattle and pigs go into the meat grinder. The museum shows in measured form what we are only too happy to ignore.

Everything beautiful is not in the sausage

Nutrition cannot be had without responsibility. In this way, the culinary journey around the world becomes an educational journey of a special kind, because it instructs without sacrificing entertainment. The Disgusting Food Museum Berlin is located in the rooms that used to house the German Currywurst Museum. Who knows what’s in a currywurst. After visiting the Disgust Museum, you can imagine it.

Santa Eulalia del Rio in Ibiza: Swimming and sailing on the east coast

PatrickJullien

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11. April 2022

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Santa Eulalia del Rio in Ibiza: Swimming and sailing on the east coast

The municipality of Santa Eulalia del Río (Santa Eulària des Riu) on Ibiza , which currently has a good 40,000 inhabitants in almost two dozen districts and partly widely scattered hamlets, covers an area of almost 154 km² in the eastern part of the Balearic island of Ibiza in the west of the Mediterranean.

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The sophisticated marina and picturesque beaches attract many holidaymakers

Promenade Santa Eulalia del Río — Out and about on the promenade of Santa Eulalia del Río, Image: Alexander Reshnya / shutterstock

The town is located on a wide bay with the headland of Punta Arabí at the eastern end and about 15 kilometres northeast of Ibiza Town. A nationally and internationally known crowd puller is the modern marina Port Esportiu with many shops, bars and restaurants. We currently recommend that you wear an FFP-2 mask inside the shops. The town has the beautiful, clean and well-maintained beaches of Cala Espart, Canal d’En Martí and Es Caló de S’Algar, which are ideal for families with children. At the western end of the bay rises the striking and surrounding landscape clearly dominating Puig d’en Fita, which is extensively built up with apartments, hotels and holiday homes and is illuminated by their lights at night.

The very fertile area was already coveted by the Moors as a cultivation area

At the time of the Moorish-Muslim rule over the archipelago and almost all of Spain (“al-Andalus”) from the 8th to the 15th century, this water-rich and fertile area was known as the “Xarc” due to the only river in Ibiza (“Riu de Santa Eulàlia”) that flows into the sea here. With the conquest of the Valencian coastal plain, the Balearic Islands and Ibiza as part of the “Reconquista” by the Aragonese in the 13th century, the successive expulsion of the Muslim population and Christian resettlement took place. Members of the nobility, church and military as well as civil servants received larger plots of land, simple workers, peasants and knights tended to receive medium and small plots (“repartimientos de donadíos”). The island was divided into quarters (“cuartos”), the quarter of Santa Eulalia was awarded to the conqueror, infante and mercenary leader Pedro de Portugal (1187-1258), the feudal lord of the then bishop of Tarragona, Guillermo de Montgrí ((1200-1273). Later, the King of Aragon, James I, acquired the ownership rights from him, whereupon the entire area became known as the “King’s Quarter”.

Old bridges, mills and churches are stone testimonies to history

The Riu de Santa Eulàlia river, mentioned above, made the site important for the irrigation of crops and nurseries, as well as the operation of numerous mills. The historic windmill with round tower “Molino de Puig d’en Valls”, first mentioned in a document in 1791, made of limestone and fieldstone, can still be visited today, which was used until 1940 and extensively renovated and restored a few years ago. Another historical attraction of the municipality worth seeing is the stone bridge with three arches “Pont Vell” a little inland from the mouth that crosses the rocky valley and is said to have been built by the Romans as part of the imperial road construction program on the island between about 200 BC and 400 AD, although its earliest mention is only found in a document from 1720. The village name Santa Eulalia itself comes from a small chapel that was built immediately after the conquest around 1302 on the top of the local mountain Puig de Missa.

The village church has undergone some changes during its long existence

Since its construction in 1568, the “Església de Puig de Missa” has also stood on the same site, in the style of a typical fortified church of the era, which can only be reached via a spiral and steep path up the slope. Built on behalf of the parishioners by the Italian military designer Giovanni Battista Calvi, who was very renowned at the time, the church is a massive round bastion in the style of the many watchtowers on the island, the porch with Moorish-inspired columns and round arches, added in the 18th century, stands separately from the main building. The church, which was relatively sparsely furnished except for a gilded altarpiece from 1967, was thoroughly restored after the end of the Spanish Civil War in 1936 due to extreme damage by iconoclastic republicans. Around this church, which is clearly visible from afar and often photographed, Santa Eulalia has grown into a small town to the present day. Among the oldest buildings on site today are the “Ajuntament” (town hall) from 1795 on Plaça d’Espanya and the lighthouse from 193/14 on the uninhabited offshore island of Tagomago, which is only about 40 hectares in size.

In the town, shops and restaurants invite you to stroll and relax

During short walks in the centre of the tranquil and pleasantly quiet city, visitors and holidaymakers can stroll through the lively main street Carrer Saint Jaume and its parallel street Carrer da Sant Vincent with cosy bars, typical taverns and restaurants. The pedestrian zone and beach promenade Passeig de s’Alamera, lined with many old trees, is also atmospheric, where guests can buy jewellery and clothing at numerous market stalls in summer. At the southern end of Passeig de s’Alamera’ is the harbour front and ferry service from Santa Eulalia with great views of the bay. Since 1985, beautiful souvenirs of all kinds have also been offered at the “hippie flea market” Las Dalias in the district of San Carlos de Peralta, where concerts with bands of different genres often take place. Popular events with many locals and visitors alike are the home games of the local football club “Penya Deportiva Santa Eulària”, founded in 1935, at the Campo Municipal de Deportes stadium with space for 1,500 spectators. For excursions and beautiful bathing days by the sea, there are also nearby beaches of Cala Boix, Cala de S’Aigua Blanca, Cala Llenya, Cala Llonga, Cala Nova, Cala Olivera, Cala Pada, Cala Rotja as well as Es Figueral and Es Niu Blau.

These are the top locations for photo shoots in Dortmund

All about travel

PatrickJullien

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11. April 2022

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These are the top locations for photo shoots in Dortmund

Photo shoots do not always have to be carried out by professionals. Hobby photographers also like to take photos and are always on the lookout for the best locations. A photographer in Dortmund has many options, even if the city has almost been forgotten by many in this respect. However, there are some lost places here that are ideal for photo shoots.

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Hansa coking plant

The Hansa coking plant is one of the most famous lost places and photo locations in the entire Ruhr area. It was put into operation in 1928, but to this day there are still old conveyor belts and gearboxes that are suitable as motifs. They are all located in the then forbidden town of Huckarde. Coke production was discontinued in the 90s and the building has been empty ever since. In 1998, the building was still listed as a historic monument.

Hermannshütte in Hörde

The Hermannshütte used to be a steel and iron works in the Dortmund district of Hörde. Originally, steel and iron were processed here in the 19th century. The operation was then finally discontinued in 2001. While some of the machines were sold to China , some remained local. A few years later, however, the building was completely demolished. Today the beautiful Phoenix Lake is located here, which is also suitable as a photo location.

Psychiatry in Kirchhörde

In 1957, the former Catholic Marienhospital was built in Dortmund. The well-known Klöckner family was originally the owner of the property, but they left it to the Franciscan nuns. The hospital was closed in 1978 before it became a psychiatric hospital and day clinic. This facility then ceased operations in 2005 and the building has been empty ever since. Until 2017 it was still a popular photo spot, but then the demolition work began. One or the other will be pleased, because the building was said to be haunted.

Gustav Knepper power plant

The Gustav Knepper power plant used to be a hard coal-fired power plant in Dortmund. It was built in 1951 and subsequently taken over by E.ON AG. In the end, however, the power plant was only operated until 2001. It was then completely shut down in 2013 at the request of E.ON. The entire area was sold in 2017 and was actually supposed to be revived. Slowly the power plant was dismantled, but in the meantime and to this day you can still take very nice pictures here.

Former Kronen Brewery

The Kronenbier is mentioned as early as 1430. This old brewery was moved to Kronenburg in 1873 and taken over several times. In 1996, it was sold to the Actien Brewery. Production was terminated in 2000. The empty building was then used for photo shoots and is still considered a popular lost place today. However, since young people also met here again and again and accidents occurred, the police had to move in regularly and now the city of Dortmund is working on the building, which will soon serve as a city archive. Basically, there are many beautiful locations in and around Dortmund that are ideal for photo shoots. The insider tips listed can help you find the perfect motif, but visiting these memorable places alone can be enough of an experience.

Ca’n Picafort – Mallorca’s north coast

PatrickJullien

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11. April 2022

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Holidays in Ca’n Picafort mean above all having a good time. The long sandy beach starts right on the doorstep, the lively town is within easy walking distance, and the bars and restaurants on the seafront offer great views of the bay.

Located on the northeast coast of Mallorca, Ca’n Picafort is a purpose-built resort with wide, palm-lined streets. The range of bars and restaurants covers local and Spanish specialities, and the relaxed pace matches the uncluttered, compact layout of the place. However, the beach is by no means small – you can play with 13 kilometers of sand here.

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Endless acres of sand

In Ca’n Picafort, all roads lead to the beach. Shops, bars and restaurants line the palm-lined promenade, which turns into an endless, pearly white beach. The sand slopes gently into the water, which is so calm that even the smallest swimmers will get their money’s worth, and there is a wide range of water sports on offer.

Ca’n Picafort – easily accessible nightlife

Because Ca’n Picafort is so compact, you don’t have to do a lot of walking to get around. The main street is Paseo Colon – a long line of shops, restaurants and bars that lead down to the harbour, where you can pick one seafood restaurant after another. And down on the beach there is a selection of established pubs, bars and discos. In the surroundings of Ca’n Picafort you can enjoy many of Mallorca’s countless attractions.

Playa de Muro – an endless sandy beach and numerous water sports facilities

The 6 km long beach offers clear, shallow waters that are perfect for swimming and – what is even more popular – areas for water sports. Learn to windsurf or rent jet skis at the pier and explore the island’s coastline. The beach is adjacent to a protected wetland that is perfect for walks and offers the chance to spot native wildlife. After swimming or walking, you can have a cold drink or a meal in one of the beach cafés.

Excursion destinations from Ca’n Picafort

Alcúdia

Church of Sant Jaume in the old town of Alcudia, Image: vulcano / shutterstock

20 minutes drive north and you will reach Alcúdia. The coastal town has a sophisticated marina that is perfect for a stylish lunch. About three kilometers inland is the old city wall. Here you can stroll through the narrow streets in medieval style to the impressive church of Sant Jaume. Nearby is Pollèntia, where the excavations and amphitheatre illustrate Alcúdia’s ancient Roman past.

Surrounded by medieval walls, the old town of Alcúdia is home to numerous well-preserved houses that date back to the 13th century. Famous for its cozy outdoor restaurants, the old town is best explored on foot because of its narrow streets and limited parking facilities. The neighborhood is a pedestrian zone and always populated by tourists. There is a market here twice a week, and there are countless small bistros offering a wide range of tempting local delicacies. Visit the remains of a Roman city just outside the old city walls. Plan your visit to the old town of Alcúdia and discover what else you can see and do in Alcúdia by using our Alcudia trip planning page.

Buggy discovery tour through the east and south of Mallorca (no off-road)

Enjoy a relaxing ATV buggy tour through the east and south of Mallorca. Adrenaline seekers are welcome, but on this tour you won’t be going off-road or competing against each other: the idea is to take a relaxed tour to some of the most beautiful places along the coast while enjoying the experience of driving an open-top vehicle.

Two travelers ride in each buggy
A relaxing ride that most travelers can enjoy
See some beautiful places you might otherwise miss
Photos of the tour can be purchased after the tour

Cuevas del Drach, Porto Cristo – enjoy the world underground

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

Go underground to see one of the largest underground lakes in the world at the Cuevas del Drach. The four caves are located 25 m underground and extend over 2.4 km. Marvel at the impressive stalactite and stalagmite formations that adorn the floors and ceilings of the caves. Take a guided tour of the caves, which includes a boat ride across Lake Martel and ends with a four-piece live classical concert. The paths can be quite steep and slippery, so you should wear good hiking shoes.

Parc Natural de Mondrago

White sandy beaches, cliffs, oak forests and wetlands characterize the varied landscape of the Parc Natural de Mondrago. At the entrance to the park, inquire about the different routes proposed to explore the different ecosystems on foot or by bike. On the beaches of Mondrago and S’Aramador, you can put your feet in the sand and watch the turquoise waters lapping on the coast. The park is also home to one of the most diverse bird species in Mallorca. So bring binoculars to spot shags, Audouin’s gulls, and possibly ospreys that sometimes visit the lagoons.

Why Ca’n Picafort holidays can be your perfect holiday spot in Mallorca?

Are you ready to kick off your shoes and relax on a dreamy Balearic island? A holiday in Ca’n Picafort offers you a stunning beach right on your doorstep, seafront bars and easy access to Mallorca’s incredible attractions.

Located on the northeast coast of Mallorca, a holiday in Ca’n Picafort is all about fun in the sun. A relaxed atmosphere combines with palm-lined streets and restaurants to suit all tastes. The beach town is a popular family destination with crystal clear waters where you can splash around safely. However, romantic sunsets and a vibrant nightlife ensure that there is something for everyone.

A holiday in Ca’n Picafort takes you to the heart of Mallorca’s breathtaking landscapes that invite you to adventure outdoors. Kayak through sea caves and secluded bays, or practice thrilling water sports. Hiking and cycling are very popular on the island, as there are a variety of hiking trails and paths through pine forests and mountain gorges. The Mediterranean weather shows its sunny side most of the year.