All about travel

The Adriatic city of Pescara: more than a typical Italian seaside resort

Italy

PatrickJullien

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7. April 2022

The Adriatic city of Pescara: more than a typical Italian seaside resort

Pescara is pretty much right in the middle of the Italian boot. The city, which has just under 120,000 inhabitants, is directly connected to the Adriatic Sea. In Germany, Pescara is mainly known as a holiday destination for beach and sun lovers. But the city has much more to offer than just 20 kilometers of expansive sandy beaches, gelato, pizza and Campari Orange. Pescara has many interesting museums, such as the Museo delle Genti d’Abruzzo, which provides information about the rich historical past of the city.

In addition, the red wine Montepulciano d’Abruzzo, which is known and loved far beyond the borders of Italy, is grown and pressed around Pescara. The best conditions for gourmets, because you can enjoy excellent antipasti and freshly caught fish. In addition, the Pescara Jazz Festival takes place here every year in July and August, where international jazz greats such as Joan Baez perform again and again.

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In the midst of locals on the Adriatic beach of Pescara

Sacro Cuore di Gesu, Image: Dariusz Jarzabek / shutterstock

Pescara is not only very popular with international guests. Local tourists also like to travel here, especially from the capital Rome. That’s why on the beaches of Pescara you often have the feeling of immersing yourself deeply in Italian everyday life, as Italian is usually spoken around you. All the beaches of the seaside resort of Pescara have one thing in common: they have an excellent infrastructure. Bathing loungers are rented, there are changing rooms and showers everywhere and the physical well-being is not neglected between cafés and beach bars. No wonder that Pescara attracts families and older tourists in particular, who appreciate this comfort very much.

The closer the beaches are to the city centre, the better equipped they are with children’s play areas and sports facilities such as volleyball courts or surfing and diving schools. If you like it quieter, you can still travel to Pescara and simply visit one of the beaches a little further away, for example the Spiaggia di Punta Ferruccio, which is located a little south of the city. Here it is relatively lonely to swim below a cliff. As a rule, this enchanted-looking sand and pebble beach is only shared with a few campers. By the way, if you travel to Pescara in August, you often have the opportunity to be sailed across the Adriatic Sea by a real local fisherman on his fishing boat.

Because then there is a fishing ban in Pescara’s fishing grounds and the fishermen use the free time for a small sideline and tourists drive along the coast in their fishing boats. In addition, the great fishermen’s festival takes place in the port and off the coast of Pescara in August, which is a real highlight in the city’s calendar of events.

A visit to Gabriele D’Annunzio, the city’s most famous son

Gabriele D’Annunzio was born in Pescara on March 12, 1863. The writer is still considered the city’s best-known son. In the meantime, a museum has been housed in his honour in his birthplace. On display here are all kinds of personal items from the writer’s possession, such as letters and writing instruments. In addition, when visiting the museum, you can take a journey through time that will take you back to the turn of the century 19. To 20th century, because the building is furnished in the style of that time. There is original furniture and room furnishings as well as clothing and everyday objects of that time to visit.

Small but nice: the Museo delle Genti d’Abruzzo

The Museo delle Genti d’Abruzzo is all about the region where Pescara is based, Abruzzo. It is housed in a former Bourbon prison building. The collection includes archaeological finds from the city area as well as historical everyday objects from a time when Pescara and the surrounding region were still extremely rural. A variety of historical agricultural equipment completes the museum’s interesting collection.

The most important religious buildings in the city: The Basilica of the Madonna dei Sette Dolori and the Cathedral of San Cetteo

As probably in all of Italy, there is a church, basilica or cathedral to visit on every corner in Pescara. The Cathedral di San Cetteo was not built until around 1930, but it is still the most important Catholic church in the city. It is furnished with valuable paintings donated by the prince of poets Gabriele D’Annunzio. The Basilica of the Madonna dei Sette Dolori is dedicated to St. Mary. Here, too, the interior of the basilica, built in the 17th century, is particularly worth seeing. Legend has it that the basilica was built in a holy place. According to legend, an image of Saint Mary was once sighted on the square where the Basilica of the Madonna dei Sette Dolori stands today.

The Museo dell’Ottocento Fondazione Di Persio-Pallotta: a haven of art

All those who are into art and paintings, and especially appreciate landscape painting, should not miss a visit to the Museo dell’Ottocento Fondazione Di Persio-Pallotta when they are in Pescara. The focus of the permanent collection is on paintings, sculptures and drawings from the 19th century. The works of Italian painters and sculptors, such as Vincenzo Caprile, Giuseppe Casciaro and Edoardo Dalbono, are exhibited here. However, there are also some works of art by French artists such as those of Théodore Rousseau, Narcisse Virgilio Diaz de la Pena or Constat Troyon.

New Mexico – where adventure and culture meet

United States

PatrickJullien

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7. April 2022

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New Mexico – where adventure and culture meet

Ancient cultures and fascinating landscapes: deserts, plains, hot springs, high mountains and a boundless expanse known from the West. This is New Mexico, the fifth largest state in the USA. It is located in the southwest on the border with Mexico. Almost as big as Germany, however, it has only 2.2 million inhabitants. “Land of Enchantment” is what the locals call New Mexico: the “Land of Enchantment”. It attracts all those who like to spend their free time with outdoor activities such as horseback riding, climbing, fishing, biking, hiking or skiing.

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Pleasant temperatures all year round

Santa Fe, New Mexico — Santa Fe, Image: Sean Pavone / shutterstock

New Mexico has so many national parks that you can’t list them here. But the state – especially the city of Santa Fe – is also a magnet for artists who are inspired by the landscape and culture of past and living indigenous peoples. The caves carved in stone and the pueblo architecture are considered unique. The temperatures are pleasant, only in desert regions it can get very hot in summer – and in the desert very cold at night.

Downtown Albuquerque becomes a trendy district

The state’s capital, Albuquerque on the Rio Grande, has a population of 500,000. Almost half of them are Hispanics – have Latin American-Spanish roots. They speak a “New Mexican” Spanish that has mixed with Native American and English words. In New Mexico, Spanish and English are official languages. Albuquerque is crossed by the legendary Route 66, which is identical to Interstate 40. The city is currently changing and is becoming a trendy meeting place with galleries, boutiques, bars and restaurants. There, the culinary qualities of New Mexico can be tested: The burger with red and green chili sauce (“Christmas style”) already gives an idea of the exotic delicacies that will be served. On weekends, it gets crowded around the “Pueblo Deco KiMo Theater”. That’s when opera lovers flock to the building in the Indian-American Art Deco style. Be sure to check it out!

In the old town there are still old mudstone houses

Albuquerque was already settled by Indian tribes in the 12th century, and in the 16th century the Spaniards occupied the city. The Old Town was founded in 1706 by Spanish settlers and is now worth a visit for its last historic adobe buildings. Albuquerque’s modern architecture pays homage to the indigenous people of the Pueblo culture: even high-rise buildings are often built in steps and with rounded corners, and their facades shine in natural rust and clay colors. In October, visitors can’t miss the Balloon Fiesta – with hundreds of colourful hot-air balloons in the sky. If you are drawn to the Sandia Mountains, you can take the cable car to the 3000m peak.

Via the “Turquoise Trail” to the City of Art

Instead of driving from Albuquerque to Santa Fe via the highway, there is the “decelerated alternative” of reaching the city via the “Turquoise Trail” (Byway 14). This is a scenic road that leads through the mountains and some nice villages and abandoned ghost towns with former gold mines. Santa Fe is located 3000 meters above sea level. The city has around 90,000 inhabitants and is considered the oldest in the USA. The Governor’s Palace and the San-Miguel Chapel are from 1610. Jewellery is sold in front of the palace. Here, holidaymakers have the opportunity to buy Indian turquoise jewellery.

Spanish colonial buildings next to pueblo houses

The cityscape inspires every visitor: a successful mixture of the rust-red, nested houses in the Pueblo style (correctly it is called “Adobe style”) and the old Spanish colonial buildings. Santa Fe has more than 200 art galleries, making it an outstanding arts center. The New Mexico Museum of Art is worth a visit – as is the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum with paintings by the artist (1887-1986). Wacky but no less fascinating is the multi-media art in the “Meow Wolf” cultural centre.

Via the Pueblo Trail to ancient cave dwellings

Taos Pueblo, New Mixico — Taos Pueblo, Image: Traveller70 / shutterstock

Between the Chihuahua Desert and the Sangre de Christo Mountains, New Mexico offers natural wonders and important cultural sites on virtually every mile. 9.5 percent of New Mexico’s inhabitants are indigenous, mainly Pueblo Indians of the Navajo peoples. About 60 kilometers northwest of Santa Fe, Bandelier National Monument is located in an area of rugged canyons and flat plateaus. The Pueblo Trail leads to the cave dwellings with hewn walls and carved rock signs. With rangers, visitors can hike the stunning Tyuonyi Overlook Trail and learn all about plants, animals, and pueblos along the way.

Holy Land for ceremonies at Chaco Canyon

If you go to the Chaco Cultural National Historical Park at Chaco Canyon northwest of Albuquerque, you will drive through “Indian country”. The canyon is sacred land of the Pueblo peoples. It was and still is a place for ceremonies. The ruins of the ancient pueblos bear witness to the highly developed culture of the First Nation, which very early applied its knowledge of astronomy and geometry to its buildings. North of Farmington is the Aztec Ruins National Monument, which is well worth seeing. You can see a large labyrinth of ruins of the Pueblo Indians, in which visitors can roam. Aztecs have never been to this place. But the first settlers in the mid-19th century thought it was Aztec settlements and left the name.

Snow-white giant dunes made of gypsum sand

In the southeast of New Mexico lies the beautiful and photogenic (!) Nationalpark White Sands National Monument. It is located 25 kilometers southwest of the town of Alamogordo in the north of the Chihuahua Desert. A 712 square kilometre gypsum field with impressively high, snow-white dunes lies in a valley, the Tularosa Basin. The grained gypsum was formed by sediment deposits, as no water could drain off here. 250 million years ago, there was a sea here that dried up due to faults. In 2009, the 23,000-year-old footprint of a Homo sapiens was found in the area.

Holidays at the Kaiserstuhl

Germany

PatrickJullien

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7. April 2022

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The sun terraces of the Kaiserstuhl rise like islands between the Black Forest and the Rhine. With a mild climate and many hours of sunshine, nature has not only left us a gem for viticulture, but also offers an abundance of flora and fauna that is second to none. This wonderful nature can be explored all year round with many possibilities. Whether by bike, e-bike or the classic hiking stick. After the day-long excursion, you will find the right food depending on your culinary taste.

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The region of the Kaiserstuhl

The Kaiserstuhl in the Black Forest is a small low mountain range in the south of Baden-Württemberg. Nestled between the beautiful Black Forest and the beautiful Rhine, the highest elevation of the Kaiserstuhl is the Totenkopf at 556 meters. What makes the Kaiserstuhl special is its climatic conditions, as the region is one of the warmest regions in Germany. The region owes its wealth of flora and fauna to its volcanic origin. Even today, the earth is covered with loess, which creates excellent properties for viticulture.

Excursion destinations in the Kaiserstuhl

Visitors are not only attracted to the region because of the wine. The Kaiserstuhl also has a lot to offer in terms of excursion destinations. Hikers in particular get their money’s worth due to the countless natural hiking trails. On eight different themed trails, everyone can get to know the dreamlike nature individually. Particularly noteworthy is the Kaiserstuhlpfad, which opened in 2010 and shines with several awards. It is around 21.7 kilometres long and leads from Endingen to Ihringen.

Here, the hiker first crosses the Ehrletal and the Katharinenkapelle. He then climbs the Bandberg up to the Eichelspitzturm and then reaches the Neulingerturm via the Vosges Pass. The last stage goes from Bickensohl over the Kreuzbuck to Ihringen.

Those who prefer to cycle in the Kaiserstuhl will also get their money’s worth. The entire area can be explored on numerous circular tours. Some mountains can be climbed, but relaxed tours that bypass the mountains are also possible. Both hikers and cyclists will find a varied stay in one of the countless winegrowers’ cooperatives on the Kaiserstuhl.

Culinary delights at the Kaiserstuhl

A special feature of the Kaiserstuhl is the symbiosis of cuisine and wine. Whether TOP gastronomy, traditional inn or simple snack bar – here you will always be accompanied by wine. In the expansive variety of Baden wines, the right one is found for every palate. If you want to go deeper into the kitchen and wine symbiosis, a wine menu is an excellent opportunity.

Sights

First of all, the special sights of the Kaiserstuhl include the fantastic vantage points along the hiking routes. Towers were also erected at some vantage points, such as the Neunlindeturm and the Eichelspitzturm.

But museum lovers will also get their money’s worth. In Vogtsburg, for example, viticulture can be explored in more detail in the Viticulture Museum , in Endingen you can learn a lot about the craft of cheese dairies and archaeological excavations can be admired in Riegel.

The towns of Burkheim and Endingen with their old towns are considered particularly beautiful in the Kaiserstuhl. Here, too, the winegrowers and the wine associated with them are always present.

Accommodations at the Kaiserstuhl

Hotel Landhaus Blum Kaiserstuhl, Image: Heuboden.de

When it comes to accommodation, every visitor in the Kaiserstuhl also gets their money’s worth. At the 4-star Hotel Landhaus Blum in Umkirch , you can switch off from everyday life in peace and enjoy your days off in spacious and comfortable rooms. From flat-screen TVs to toiletries and walk-in showers, every luxury is catered for. The extensive breakfast offer of the 51-room hotel is particularly popular with guests.

A varied breakfast – and plenty of time for it? Holidaymakers will find this at the Hotel Heu.Loft, which is also located in Umkirch. The design-oriented hotel, which only opened in 2019, scores with high-quality furnishings and traditional charm with Black Forest flair. In addition to 46 rooms, 6 other suites also offer enough space for smaller families to spend relaxing days in the Upper Rhine Lowlands.

But there are now also some motorhome pitches for travellers on four wheels: In addition to campsites, there are now some motorhome pitches: the offer is supplemented by private accommodation and holiday apartments.

Day trips around the Kaiserstuhl

Panoramic view of Freiburg, Image: Sina Ettmer Photography / shutterstock

If you are on holiday in the Kaiserstuhl, you should take the opportunity to visit the Feldberg . The Feldberg is the highest mountain in the Black Forest and is particularly attractive for its skiing and hiking areas.
The lakes in the Black Forest are also worth a visit. The well-known Titisee is particularly noteworthy here. But the Schluchsee is also worth a visit.
In just 30 minutes by car you can reach Freiburg im Breisgau
If there are children on the trip, it is worth a day visit to the amusement park in Rust. Numerous rides can be visited at Europapark. The fun is certainly not lacking on such a day

Tips at the Kaiserstuhl

A special tip for the Kaiserstuhl region is the Konus guest card. This gives holidaymakers free access to buses and trains. The free service can also be used over longer distances into the Black Forest.

The Kaiserstuhl offers an abundance of activities, excellent cuisine and a very good wine. Here, every visitor gets their money’s worth and can have a great time.

Greece round trip: The most beautiful destinations for island hopping

Greece

PatrickJullien

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6. April 2022

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Greece round trip: The most beautiful destinations for island hopping

Greece has more than 100 inhabited islands, all of which rise picturesquely from the Mediterranean Sea. Many tourists therefore opt for a very special type of round trip, island hopping. You move by ferry from one island to the next and let yourself be enchanted by the diversity of the island world. With so much choice, however, it is not easy to decide where the journey should lead. The following islands are among the most beautiful in the Aegean Sea and are definitely worth a visit.

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Crete

The largest of all Greek islands is also worthwhile as
a destination for your own round trip
:Crete. The ruins of the Palace of Knossos, Roman aqueducts and the Arkadi Monastery bear witness to the fascinating history of the island, which dates back to ancient times. The interior is characterized by olive groves and vines, many of the farms invite you to a tasting on site. With its turquoise waters and white sand, Elafonisi Beach can easily rival any Caribbean island. And thanks to street food, fresh seafood and local cheese specialties, a stay in Crete is also a culinary delight.

Corfu

Corfu owes its special character to the mixture of Greek and Venetian influences. The whole island is peppered with historic buildings, many of which are in excellent condition. In the old town of the main town of Corfu, you can feel like you’re in Venice in places, while fishing villages like Kassiopi are typically Greek. The Achilleion, the Empress Sisi built as a summer residence, gives an idea of what the buildings of Greek antiquity once looked like, colourful and richly decorated. Equally worth seeing are the many monasteries on the island, which are kept in good condition despite their old age. The panoramic view from the highest mountain Pantokrator is one of the most beautiful in Greece.

Santorini

Compared to Crete or Corfu, Santorini seems downright tiny. Nevertheless, the Cycladic island is one of the most popular destinations in Greece. The reason for this is mainly the picturesque architecture of places like Oía or Firá. The snow-white houses with blue roofs and shutters stand close to each other, winding alleys and hidden corners create a romantic atmosphere that thousands of visitors fall in love with every year. For a day trip, you can hike between the villages, along the rocky coast and with a view of the bright blue of the Mediterranean. The black sand beaches that give the volcanic origin of the island

are another highlight.

Tinos

Tinos may not be as well-known as other Greek islands, but that’s why it’s all the more worth seeing. The Grekaventura 10-Day Tour of the Cyclades dedicates two days to this island pearl to explore the traditional marble crafts, the pilgrimage basilica of Panagia Evangelistria and optionally a family brewery. Far away from the crowds and the tourist hotspots, visitors get insights into the traditional world of the Mediterranean islands: The island’s approximately 8,000 inhabitants are divided into 50 small villages, many of which seem like a remnant from another world. Many of the inhabitants earn their living as fishermen, so fresh seafood is one of the culinary highlights of the island. Other places of interest include the Kechrovouni Monastery, the picturesque dovecotes at Tarambados and the charming port town of Panormos.

Kołobrzeg in West Pomerania: the most tranquil Polish seaside resort

Poland

PatrickJullien

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6. April 2022

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Kołobrzeg in West Pomerania: the most tranquil Polish seaside resort

Kołobrzeg in West Pomerania is a seaside resort with a lot of tradition, also known as a port city. Especially for families and tourists who like it quiet and tranquil, Kołobrzeg is the ideal holiday destination. Because with only about 47,000 inhabitants, Kołobrzeg is a fairly manageable city where you can get around on foot. In addition, the city is located directly on the Baltic Sea coast and captivates with white sandy beaches in front of romantic waves. The beach promenade invites you to take relaxing walks. In addition, there are some sublime sights to visit, such as the Kołobrzeg Cathedral. In addition, the city, measured by its size, has a surprising number of museums that know how to turn even a rainy day into a day of adventure.

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Kołobrzeg Cathedral

The Kołobrzeg Cathedral, which is also known as the Cathedral Basilica of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary, is one of the most outstanding historical buildings in the city. The Gothic brick hall church was built in the early 14th century. The first mass was celebrated here as early as 1321. To this day, Kołobrzeg Cathedral is equipped with extremely valuable art treasures and paintings. At the time of the Second World War, these were walled up in church niches or distributed to smaller country churches to protect them from destruction and looting. Now they are open to the interested public again in Kolberg Cathedral. At a height of 40 meters, Kołobrzeg Cathedral has a viewing platform that is accessible to visitors. From there you have a wonderful view over the romantic old town of the town, where some other historical buildings, such as the so-called Luntenturm are located. This is a water tower built in the neo-Gothic style, which resembles a medieval defensive tower in its shape and construction

Walk to the town’s landmark: the Kołobrzeg lighthouse

The Kołobrzeg lighthouse is considered a landmark of the West Pomeranian city. From the center, it can be reached quickly on foot after a short walk. The lighthouse can be found exactly where the Persante River, which flows through the city, flows into the Baltic Sea . The lighthouse that exists today was built in 1945 from demolition stones. However, from 1666 onwards, there were predecessor buildings on the same site, which showed ships entering the Kolberg harbour the way with their beacons. Today, the 26-metre-high lighthouse is used less for sea navigation than as a tourist attraction. In the basement of the tower, a natural stone and mineral museum can be visited. In addition, visitors are invited to climb the Kołobrzeg lighthouse via a narrow staircase and overlook the harbour area from the viewing platform at the top. From here you have a wonderful view over the Baltic Sea and can watch ships entering the port of Kołobrzeg.

Kołobrzeg all maritime

As befits a real seaside resort, Kołobrzeg can boast some maritime highlights. The Baltic Sea beach in front of the city is no less than eleven kilometres long. Enough space for extensive sunbathing, wave adventures and romantic walks on the beach. If you don’t like it quite so lively and frolic, you will certainly find one or the other quiet place where you can be all to yourself. And of course there is a pier in Kołobrzeg. Numerous tourist ships dock at the 220-metre-long bridge. Of course, excursions by boat can also be made from there, which can lead to Usedom , for example. Right next door is the harbor, where merchant ships and local fishermen land in addition to private sailing ships and yachts. There is always a lot going on here and there is a lot to see. For example, there is a fish market at the harbour, where the Kołobrzeg fishermen sell their catch directly from the net.

The diversity of museums in Kołobrzeg

If the weather doesn’t play along and the beach day falls through, you have a lot of alternative options in Kołobrzeg, because there are several museums in the city that are worth visiting. The Kołobrzeski Skansen Morski Ship Museum is an open-air museum located in the port area. Here you can see, for example, former military ships, but also a sailing ship. Children and young people in particular are happy that all ships can be examined in detail not only from the outside but also from the inside. In the Military and Weapons Museum, you can see old military aircraft and traditional weapons – from bows and arrows to modern weapons. But also historically interesting exhibits, such as an Enigma cipher machine, are among the exhibits.

The Kołobrzeg City Museum is of interest to all those who want to learn about the rich history of the place. It starts with archaeological finds that carry on the history from the Middle Ages to the more recent history of the city. All explanations of the exhibits are also available here in German. The Patria Colbergiensis Museum, housed in the historic town hall of Kołobrzeg, focuses on the German past of the city, which once belonged to Brandenburg-Prussia. In the Amber Museum, visitors learn everything about the gold of the Baltic Sea. Amber is popular all over Poland’s Baltic coast. In Kołobrzeg, a 2.2 kilogram amber is on display. In addition, it is explained how amber is and was processed into jewellery and everyday objects today, and in earlier times.

Guangzhou in the south of China

China

PatrickJullien

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5. April 2022

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In the southeast of the People’s Republic of China lies Guangzhou, the provincial capital of Guangdong. It is located about 130 kilometers northwest of Hong Kong and is crossed by the Pearl River, the most important river in southern China. This river runs from Guangzhou to Macau and Hong Kong to the South China Sea (Pearl River Delta).

The metropolis is spread over an area of over 7,400 square kilometers and is divided into a total of ten city districts and two independent cities. With its more than eleven million inhabitants, it is one of the most important and largest industrial and commercial cities and has the largest foreign trade port in all of southern China. Thanks in part to its proximity to Hong Kong , Guangzhou has been a strategically important port city for centuries.
Guangzhou is also known as the “goat city”, which is also reflected in its coat of arms. That’s where the five goats can be found, which are also statues in the city’s own Yuexiu Park. This nine-hectare park in Guangzhou is China’s largest urban green space.

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Interesting sights in Guangzhou

Yuanxuan Taoist Temple in Guangzhou — Yuanxuan Taoist Temple, Image: Mathisa / shutterstock

Basically, the Chinese port city of Guangzhou is designed more for industry and trade than for tourism. Nevertheless, there are also some beautiful places and interesting sights that should definitely be taken a closer look.
In addition to old temples and buildings that tell of times long past, there are also shiny skyscrapers and buildings that are architecturally and technically state-of-the-art. Guangzhou has a lot to offer and is a popular destination in China for many holidaymakers.

The ancestral temple of the Chen family

For example, the ancestral temple of the Chen family is extremely worth seeing. It was financed by donations from the Chen family and was built between 1890 and 1894 during the reign of Emperor Guangxu of the Qing Dynasty. The temple complex has a total of 19 buildings with nine halls and six beautiful courtyards, all of which are connected by corridors. The main hall is the focal point of the temple, which was built in the traditional Chinese symmetrical style. The entrance area houses two huge stone drums as well as color paintings that are considered the best in the entire province. Today, Chen Temple is the site of the Museum of Folk Arts and Crafts and is popular with curious vacationers.

The Memorial Hall for Sun Yat-sen

This special memorial commemorates the esteemed statesman and revolutionary Sun Yat-sen (born in 1866 and died in 1925). He made a decisive contribution to the overthrow of the Qing government and is considered an important founder of the Republic of China. The memorial hall was built from 1929 to 1931 and is located on the southern slope of Yuexiu Mountain. The magnificent building is almost 50 metres high and consists of a main building and an annex. Here you can find out more about his life and work. Particularly impressive is the bronze statue of Sun Yat-sen, which stands in front of the entrance to the palatial building. The blue, octagonal roof tiles are also something very special and are often used by tourists as a photo motif. The entire building is a masterpiece of the palace architectural style.

The Canton Tower in Guangzhou

Bridge over the Zhujiang River, Image: cozyta / shutterstock

The extraordinary observation and television tower “Canton Tower” is a very special attraction of the city of Guangzhou. The building stands in the center of the city and, at 600 meters, is the tallest television tower and the fifth tallest building in the world. Its eye-catching design consists of a hyperbolic structure and looks particularly spectacular in the evening or at night, when the entire tower is illuminated in different colours. The Canton Tower consists of almost 40 levels, each with something different to offer: there are cafes, restaurants, cinemas, tea houses, exhibition and conference rooms, arcades and, of course, great corners to enjoy the fantastic view. A special highlight is the horizontal Ferris wheel at a height of 455 meters. There, a total of 16 transparent glass gondolas rotate around the Canton Tower and offer a spectacular view of the metropolis of a good eleven million inhabitants. A gondola can accommodate up to six people and a circumnavigation takes about 30 minutes. A ride costs the equivalent of about 14 euros.

Fun and variety at the Guangzhou Chimelong Tourist Resort

If tourists want to spend a different day in Guangzhou, they are in good hands at the Guangzhou Chimelong Tourist Resort. This special resort consists of an amusement park (“Chimelong Paradise”), a water park (“Chimelong Water Park”), two zoological gardens (“Chimelong Safari Park” and “Chimelong Birds Park”) and three hotel complexes.

Chimelong Paradise is an amusement park opened in 2006. It is one of the largest and most popular in all of China and has over 60 rides and spectacular attractions: water rides, half pipe, motorcycle roller coaster, bumper cars, free fall tower, carousel and much more. The associated Chimelong Water Park is the most visited water park in the whole world. It is particularly child-friendly, which is why a good 70% of the visitors are families with children. In addition to various water rides, there are also water slides for young and old. The Safari Park is also part of the facility and particularly curious visitors can book tours by jeep to get up close and personal with wild animals such as lions, giraffes, (white) tigers, elephants, koalas, panda bears and many other species. But there is also a zone where you can walk through the extensive areas and explore everything. This huge wildlife park is home to over 20,000 animals.

Cabo San Lucas in Mexico – beautiful dream beaches

Mexico

PatrickJullien

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5. April 2022

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Cabo San Lucas in Mexico – beautiful dream beaches

Today, the seaside resort of Cabo San Lucas is mentioned in the same breath as Acapulco, Cancun and Puerto Vallarta when talking about Mexico’s most important holiday centers . The former fishing village, which was already a port of call for merchant ships in Spanish times due to its natural harbor, has developed into an absolute tourist hotspot in recent decades. Mainly super-rich or at least well-heeled Americans come to Cabo San Lucas at the extreme southern tip of Baja California. The resort is very Americanized and the price level is relatively high. Fantastic beaches, a wide range of water sports and numerous exclusive nightclubs, bars and restaurants attract holidaymakers here.

The beaches of Cabo San Lucas

Cabo San Lucas, Mexico — View of Cabo San Lucas beach, Image: Joel Hensler / shutterstock

Playa El Médano is the town’s main beach and, unlike many other stretches of coastline in the area, it’s a sheltered and safe place to swim in the sea. If you like to spend your holidays in lively surroundings, you will feel very comfortable here. El Médano starts just behind the marina and is lined with countless hotels, restaurants, cafes and bars. Active tourists get their money’s worth here, because sports and entertainment are very important. For example, you can go jet skiing or banana boating, try water skiing and parasailing or take part in a beach volleyball match. Holidaymakers seeking peace and quiet will probably not necessarily feel comfortable on this beach despite the beautiful nature, but party lovers love it.

Only about fifteen minutes by car outside the center of Cabo San Lucas is a marine reserve with extremely clear water. The horseshoe-shaped Santa Maria Bay is an excellent alternative to El Médano, as it is quickly accessible and much quieter. Divers and snorkelers are guaranteed to be thrilled by this exciting underwater hotspot.

One of the most beautiful beaches in Cabo San Lucas is Playa del Amor, or Love Beach. It is located at Land’s End on the Gulf of California side. The sand is wonderfully fine and soft and the water is extremely calm – ideal for swimming. The spectacular rock formations and deep blue sea make for a fantastic backdrop. It is worthwhile to discover the colourful underwater world while snorkelling and spend a wonderful holiday here. It is especially beautiful at sunset when peace gradually returns, as most visitors who come as part of organized tours have left.

A great contrast to the “Love Beach” is the “Beach of the Divorced” (Playa de los Divorciados), which is located on the opposite side of the Pacific. Here, unpredictable currents and strong waves often make swimming a dangerous undertaking, but the place is worth a visit for its wildness.

Sights and excursion destinations

Marina of Cabo San Lucas, Image: Victoria Ditkovsky / shutterstock

San José del Cabo is a neighboring municipality of Cabo San Lucas and is located on the Sea of Cortes. The two places could hardly be more different, as the Spanish colonial style still dominates here. A small Mexican town like out of a picture book with colorful mud houses and streets lined with jacaranda trees. In the local galleries and craft shops, everyone will find what they are looking for extraordinary souvenirs and souvenirs. There is no party scene here, but there are small restaurants with authentic, local cuisine. To spend a day away from the omnipresent hustle and bustle of Cabo San Luca, San José is an excellent destination. Even sleepier is the village of Todos Santos on the Pacific, where there is a much-visited attraction with the “Hotel California”, to which the Eagles set a musical monument at the time.

Even before tourism developed in Cabo San Lucas, well-to-do Americans came to this place on the Baja California peninsula for deep-sea fishing. To this day, the sophisticated marina is home to luxury yachts and cruise ships as well as a considerable fleet of sport fishing boats. Every year in October, Cabo San Luca hosts the world’s most highly endowed deep-sea fishing competition over three days. The prize that the winner receives is a whopping 2.3 million US dollars.

Among the most popular activities are the various types of boat tours. For example, there are relaxed trips on catamarans around the southern tip of Baja California and of course trips to the landmark of Cabo San Luca, the impressive rock arch El Arco on the headland of Land’s End. El Arco is 62 m high and can also be reached on foot at low tide. Sporty holidaymakers like to take a kayak trip to the rugged rock formations, including Pelican Rock, where a large colony of these birds has settled.

Between October and March, many tourists come to the area to observe humpback and gray whales. For all participants, these excursions are always among the holiday experiences that will be remembered for a long time.

Cabo San Lucas is a beautiful spot due to the combination of blue sea, the different shades of brown of the desert and the light green cacti, and the climate here is also relatively balanced and very pleasant in contrast to other areas of the region. In summer, temperatures never rise above 33°C, and in winter, the thermometer usually doesn’t drop below 13°C.

Cabo San Lucas is therefore an ideal destination for travelers who appreciate a beach vacation with every comfort and like to turn night into day from time to time.

Kansas – The Middle of the USA

United States

PatrickJullien

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4. April 2022

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The state of Kansas is understood as the center of the USA and is at the same time a fundamental part of the folklore around such American classics as the cowboy. The sprawling Great Plains still tell of the sheer incomprehensible size of the USA and if you want to understand the United States, you will definitely have to stop in Kansas. It is also above all this nature that attracts most vacationers to Kansas. Larger cities are the rarity here, but it is very easy to see why the Native Americans were almost all settled in this region of the states.

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The folklore around Kansas

Maxwell Wildlife Refuge in Kansas — Bison in the Maxwell Wildlife Refuge, Image: Ricardo Reitmeyer / shutterstock

If you take a look at typical American stories, you will notice that many of them are closely connected to Kansas. There are, for example, the cowboys, who today are mainly associated with Texas , but actually had their origins in Kansas for years. The farm from The Wizard of Oz was also in Kansas. This is probably because every child has some connection to the state, which is so typical of the image of the USA that many people have. Above all, however, Kansas is now the Sunflower State. The sprawling sunflower fields are a quintessential sight of the Great Plains and have given Kansas one of many nicknames.

By the way, Kansas is also the country of the German-speaking minority in the USA. Many emigrants settled here after 1857. Previously, this was not possible, as it was a state that was assigned exclusively to the indigenous peoples after they had been expelled from other parts of the national territory. Since then, however, a very special culture has developed here and the traces of the “Indians” can still be found everywhere in the state. In addition, there are some reserves where the indigenous people can now live according to their own rights and often offer tourists a guided tour and talk about the fate of their people.

Top attractions in the state of Kansas

Santa Fe Trail Kansas — Out and about on the Santa Fe Trail, Image: Jacob Boomsma / shutterstock

From historic trade routes with a close connection to the Wild West to untouched prairies, the likes of which you won’t find anywhere else in the USA, Kansas has a lot to offer. It should be mentioned here that you should always rent your own car for the exploration tour. Although Topeka is a huge urban region, the expansion of public infrastructure, especially in traffic in Kansas, is rather rare. This is not least due to the sheer size of the state, where you can also travel for a few hours by car until you reach your next destination.

The Santa Fe Trail is one of the last testimonies of the journey to the West. During Kansas City when the gateway to the west was considered, the merchant wagons moved here towards the west coast and not only had to be protected from attacks by the natives, but one or the other trading post was created, which can still be visited today if you follow this path yourself. A visit to Fort Larned, where one of the most important meetings between the natives and the new Americans took place, also fits in with this.

Even though the state borders the Rocky Mountains, it is relatively flat. Hiking and mountain bikers will therefore get their money’s worth less here. But it is mainly hikers who find the vast prairies a great way to discover this almost forgotten form of nature in the United States.

Cities, culture and other sights in Kansas

The Keeper of the Plains, Wichita, Kansas — The Keeper of the Plains in Wichita, Image: KSwinicki / shutterstock

A visit to Topeka is of course an absolute must, even if it is only to take in the historic parts of the city. This is where life in the state began, and the historic State Capitol alone is worth a visit. Above all, however, you can discover some museums here, which show, for example, the eventful history of the state in connection with the tornadoes. Kansas is one of the most tornado-stricken parts of the USA and the destruction of natural phenomena is sometimes immense.

Even though Topeka is the capital of the state, Wichita is the actual urban center. Here you will not only find the international airport and thus the gateway to a visit to Kansas, but also an interesting division of the city. The Wild West meets the modern aircraft industry that has become so important to Kansas. Great restaurants and very hearty and home-style cuisine can be found in the restaurants, with the city’s excellent steakhouses in particular deserving of a special mention.

Last but not least, Hutchinson should also be mentioned. The slightly smaller city, for example, is home to the Kansas Cosmosphere and Space Center and is therefore one of the most beautiful and interesting museums when it comes to space travel and the history associated with it in the USA. All in all, this state is an excellent way to switch between natural spectacle and urban region and experience and explore a wide variety of things.

The State of New York

United States

PatrickJullien

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3. April 2022

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When you think of New York, you naturally think of the Big Apple with its many sights, the many millions of people and this unique melting pot of cultures. But the state of the same name, from which the name “New York City” is actually derived, also has its very own form of highlights and sights to offer. The Empire State, as it is called, with its capital Albany is one of the oldest areas of today’s USA with an eventful history and an extremely capricious nature. And even though a trip to NYC is of course a must when visiting, you should definitely embark on an adventure in “Upstate” New York.

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Life in the shadow of the Big Apple

The state of New York was one of the thirteen colonies that today play an important role in the founding myth of the USA . It was not so much the British as the Dutch who built their first base in the New World here. After some back and forth and various wars, it finally became part of the British colonies in America and quite quickly New York City developed into one of the most important ports on the east coast of the new country. Gradually, however, the state developed its own identity independently of the big city and above all the city dwellers themselves enjoyed the excursions to the countryside to escape the hustle and bustle of the Big Apple.

A visit to upstate New York is likely to offer a variety of surprises for most visitors. Because even away from the big city, the state has a lot of sights to offer. From historical testimonies of the early days of the USA to breathtaking spectacles of nature, everything can be found here. In addition, of course, there is the advantage that a trip to New York City or New England only takes a few hours and therefore you have a perfect base for traveling around the northeastern part of the USA.

The most beautiful natural spectacles in New York State

Niagara Falls, New York — Niagara Falls, Image: Jam Norasett / shutterstock

One of the most famous sights in New York State is certainly Niagara Falls State Park. The famous waterfalls, which can be found next to the city of the same name, are probably one of the most impressive natural spectacles you can find in the USA and the journey from New York City is done quickly. In general, it is surprising what a diverse nature the state has to offer its visitors. Hikers and adventurers on bicycles in particular get a varied landscape to offer, which is interrupted from time to time by historical monuments.

The Long Island area also plays a special role in the state. In recent years, it has become one of the most popular retreats for city dwellers and today offers not only a wide selection of hotels and holiday homes, but above all some impressive beaches that invite you to linger. From here, you can start a deep-sea fishing tour or take advantage of one of the many offers to explore the coast by boat and discover even more of New York. But if you are just looking for a little relaxation after the strenuous sightseeing, you will get your money’s worth here and spend a great day.

The Indian Summer, the time at the beginning of autumn when the leaves change color and the entire state presents itself in rich shades of brown, is the time of hikers and hikers in New York. Especially in the Adirondacks State Park, the mountain range in the east of the state, there are many opportunities to experience this spectacle of nature first-hand. In addition, the area offers many great climbing opportunities or invites you to take an extensive mountain bike tour through the mountains.

Albany and other cities outside New York City

NYC is by no means the capital of the state, even if one would assume that, of course. Albany is the historic hub of New York and offers some interesting testimonies to history. Especially the State Capitol, which can now look back on several hundred years of history, is a real eye-catcher on a walk through Albany. Anyone who takes this opportunity to walk through one of the many shopping streets or sit down in one of the restaurants will also notice that the melting pot of cultures did not stop in NYC. From typical Italian-American cuisine to the classics of New England, everything is represented on the city’s menus and therefore offers a good selection.

Finally, of course, you should also have visited New York City itself. There is not enough space to describe all the must-see sights in the city. In general, it can be worthwhile to plan several days just for visiting upstate New York and then go to New York City. The contrasts that are lived and can be experienced here in the state are one reason why a visit to this region of the USA is always recommended.

Flores – The Flower Island of the Azores

Portugal

PatrickJullien

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2. April 2022

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Flores – The Flower Island of the Azores

The dream islands of the Azores are a true destination of longing and are probably among the most popular islands among European vacationers. While many of the Azores islands have adapted to tourism in recent decades, the quite small island of Flores has so far been little developed for tourism. This makes the western Azores island a real insider tip. Here you can discover the nature of the Azores without the influence of tourists, the accommodations are usually simple but comfortable and at the same time you have countless opportunities for relaxation, hiking or a trip to the lush greenery in the heart of the island.

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The flower island in the Atlantic

Azores, Flores — Waterfall on Flores / Azores, Image: Lukasz Janyst / shutterstock

Flores is the fourth smallest of the Azores islands and has lived quite isolated for many centuries. The Portuguese settlers, who settled here as early as the 17th century, began to farm on the island and become self-sufficient, as most merchant ships did not take the course to this part of the Azores anyway. So it happened that the island has only been making real attempts to make a leap into modernity since the 1990s. Since then, they have also slowly begun to woo tourists, trying to preserve the core of the island and not sacrificing a piece of greenery for hotels or other tourist infrastructure. All this makes Flores a real insider tip to this day.

If you set foot on the island, you will quickly notice that the name – “flowers” – is the program here. Hardly any other island in the Atlantic has such a comprehensive paradise of different plants to offer and it is almost like paradise how endless the meadows and forests are here. All of this makes Flores the perfect destination for those who want to experience the nature of the Azores in its natural state. In addition, entry is easy, because the Azores are officially part of the EU – so there is no need for paperwork such as a visa to decide to stay on the island.

The sights of the island at a glance

Fajazinha village centre, Flores — Fajazinha village centre, Image: EmilEn4ev / shutterstock

Of course, the greenery and untouched nature go hand in hand with the fact that there are few classic sights in the form of historic buildings. These are at most on arrival in Santa Cruz das Flores. It is also the island’s only airport and also the port that connects Flores with all the other islands of the Azores. The boat connections can fluctuate depending on the season – so if you are planning a bit of island hopping, you should find out in advance what the possibilities are for the desired travel time.

The city has had city rights since 1518 and shortly afterwards the Franciscans began a monastery in the city. However, this was converted into the Museu das Flores in modern times. Here you can take a look at the history of the island and find out how most of the settlers lived before other nations and especially Portugal itself became aware of this beautiful piece of land again in modern times and made contact.

In addition, it is above all the Igreja Matriz da Nossa Senhora da Conceição, the main church of the island, that you should have seen in the city. It has existed for several hundred years and has changed its appearance over time. Besides that, most of the accommodation and restaurants are in this part of the island – so it’s more or less the hub of the actual exploration of the island.

Discover the beautiful nature of Flores on your own

Although there are now some tours across the island, they have only played a subordinate role so far. It is usually mainly hikers on their own who make their way inland. Here, for example, you can see the seven lakes. Some of them were formed in extinct craters of volcanoes and line the country, give nature the source of its life and are also particularly easy to explore on your own and without disturbances due to the lack of tourists.

The Rocha dos Bordoes, massive columns made of basalt, rise in the center of the island, visible from afar, and are somewhat reminiscent of organs. The rock face is one of the most beautiful sights that can be found on the island of Flores. If you are lucky enough to make one of the boat trips on the island, you should definitely have seen the Gruta dos Enxaréus. The grotto is a beautiful piece of nature and can only be discovered by circumnavigating it by boat.

All in all, there is not enough space to mention every natural spectacle that you can see on a trip across the island. One should only keep in mind that the center of Flores is not populated. You won’t find any restaurants or shops where you can stock up. So a little planning is required.

When it comes to accommodation, they stick to the capital. There are not only nice little apartments and guesthouses here, but the city itself also lives from the traditional events and the good food, which is authentic and lives above all from the nearby coast.