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Spa town with charm and culture: Baden-Baden

PatrickJullien
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Spa town with charm and culture: Baden-Baden

Baden-Baden is located on the western edge of the northern Black Forest, in the sunny southwest of Germany. The idyllic city is not only known for its numerous sights. It is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Baden-Baden: Wellness and culture combined with glamorous gambling

In mid-2021, Baden-Baden was added to the list of “Great Spa Towns of Europe” by the UNESCO World Heritage Committee. With just over 55,000 inhabitants, the city is one of the most important health resorts in Europe.

Since ancient times, the people of Baden-Baden have known about the beneficial effects of the mineral-rich, hot thermal water, which has its origin in the soil under their feet. The townspeople’s trust in its healing power went so far that they tried to fight epidemics such as the plague by flooding their city with water. Of course, word got around.

Those who had physical ailments and had the necessary change were drawn to the spa town. As early as the 16th century, Baden-Baden welcomed several thousand spa guests per season. In the following centuries, world-class nobility also traveled there.
Together with the number of wealthy spa guests, the interest in gambling in elegant surroundings also increased. And the demand for high-quality cultural performances also increased steadily.

Baden-Baden still attracts wealthy audiences. But in contrast to earlier times, the spa town is nowadays also an attractive holiday destination for guests with a normal travel budget.

Baden-Baden: Sights in the city

Caracalla-Therme and Friedrichsbad

Holiday guests can visit two thermal baths in Baden-Baden. The Caracalla Thermal Baths offer several outdoor and indoor pools with different temperature ranges. Guests can also enjoy numerous cosmetic and wellness offers as well as an extensive sauna area. Families must note that children under the age of 7 are not allowed in the Caracalla Thermal Baths. Up to 14 years of age, stay accompanied by an adult is permitted.

The Roman-Irish Friedrichsbad takes bathers back to bygone times at various bathing stations. Wealthy customers have the luxury of reserving their own bathroom privately.

But beware: In contrast to the stay in the Caracalla Thermal Baths, bathing in the Friedrichsbad is textile-free! In addition, entry is only allowed from the age of 14 accompanied by an adult.

Casino in the Kurhaus

Casino Baden-Baden
The Casino of Baden-Baden, Image: Sina Ettmer Photography / shutterstock

In the luxuriously furnished state rooms with their breathtaking interior design, not only professional gamblers and celebrities as well as wealthy people from all over the world get their money’s worth. Travellers who want to immerse themselves in their very own, exclusive atmosphere for a few hours can also enjoy themselves at noble gaming tables and various gambling machines.

The Grill restaurant serves top-class menus. Admission to the casino is permitted from the age of 21 upon presentation of a valid ID.

A spontaneous visit is possible, but the dress code must be observed. For a fee, appropriate men’s clothing can be purchased on site.

In the area of gambling machines, there is no obligation to wear ties and jackets. However, a well-groomed appearance is also desirable there. If you don’t want to play for money in the casino, you can pass the time a little by playing online.

Readings by top-class authors also take place on the premises of the casino.
In the “Club Bernstein” world-class DJs play. And not only gambling enthusiasts, clubbers and literature enthusiasts get their money’s worth at the Kurhaus Baden-Baden. It houses gastronomy as well as a sophisticated hall for concerts, balls and other cultural events.

Current dates can be queried via the website.

Extra tip: If you want to enjoy the overwhelming ambience of the casino without gambling, you can book a guided tour outside of gambling. Exclusive guided tours during ongoing operations can be requested for groups.

Museums, shopping and parks

World Heritage Site Baden-Baden
Baden-Baden, Image: Sina Ettmer Photography / shutterstock

Baden-Baden offers numerous museums on a wide variety of topics, which also offer changing exhibitions. The Museum Frieder Burda, the Fabergé Museum and the State Art Gallery are just a few of them.

Tip for families with children: The little ones get their money’s worth in the Miniature World as well as in the TOCCARION Children’s Music World in the Festspielhaus.

What would a holiday be without extensive shopping! From seductive jewels to top-class luxury labels to handmade works of art, shopping enthusiasts get their money’s worth in the spa town. Admittedly, the city is known for high-priced things. However, the promenade offers attractive shops for all target groups.

Baden-Baden’s gardens and parks, such as Lichtentaler Allee, offer respite from shopping.

Extra tip: In late summer, the dahlia beds, which are in full bloom at this time of year, delight in the Lichtentaler Alle.

Baden-Baden: Excursion destinations in the area

For hiking enthusiasts, Baden-Baden is the perfect starting point for easier or challenging hikes. There is something for every taste. In the summer heat, a tour to the Geroldsau waterfalls beckons. Families hike to the game reserve, wine lovers explore the surrounding vineyards.

Only a quarter of an hour by car from Baden-Baden is Iffezheim. The town is world-famous for its legendary racecourse. In spring and autumn, the elite of horse racing meet here. Noble four-legged friends are just as fascinating as the illustrious company and the unique ambience.

Just under 60 km from Baden-Baden, Germany’s largest amusement park has its home. Europa-Park Rust offers numerous rides and shows for visitors of all ages.

Anyone visiting Baden-Baden can spontaneously leave Germany for a day. Because the city is close to the border with France. Guided or individual day trips to Alsace, for example to Strasbourg, Colmar or to the Haut-Koenigsbourg near Orschwiller, are therefore a good idea.

Animal lovers and families with children should make a detour from Baden-Baden to Bad Rippoldsau-Schapbach. Here, the “Alternative Wolf and Bear Park” gives abused animals a new home.

How can I bridge the waiting time at the airport?

PatrickJullien
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How can I bridge the waiting time at the airport?

The journey to the long-awaited vacation begins with the drive to the airport. After dropping off the suitcases and checking in, the waiting time begins until all travelers are called to get to the exit. The anticipation of sitting on the plane, which finally takes all travelers to their destination, makes the waiting time seem even longer. The impatience grows from minute to minute.

Can the waiting time at the airport be bridged?

Yes, it is possible to feel that the waiting time is not too long if you prepare for it and show the right attitude.

What is the best way to spend your time at the airport?

The building is like a large shopping mall. There are many small shops there, which are suitable for strolling through the city. The long corridors and often several floors are suitable for long walks before boarding the plane, where you can’t avoid sitting for several hours.

The most diverse items all attract curious travelers. Books, newspapers and magazines are excellent for filling the waiting time with interesting reading. There are various seats at the airport to read for a while, or even to get to know other travelers. There you quickly get into conversation, which is especially important for solo travelers.

Drinks on the go to quench thirst or snacks that encourage one mind offer a positive effect against impatience and bad moods. Getting hold of something delicious in a shop or simply ordering from one of the cafés also helps against boredom. Often these cafes or restaurants are next to the large windows, from where you can watch the comings and goings of the planes.

Observing the planes and the travelers tempts you to imagine the most diverse destinations. With a notebook and a pencil or a laptop, you can even use the time to write travel stories or a diary of your own trip. The imagination knows no bounds here.

Games at the airport against boredom

The choice of games depends mainly on whether you fly accompanied or alone. In addition, the traditional board games are also available in small format, which do not take up much space in the luggage. On the other hand, new games can also be invented.

Board games at the airport

Games at the airport
Playing together with the family at the airport, Image: Robert Kneschke / shutterstock

If you own such games by default, you can bring them with you. But you can also buy them in one of the shops at the airport. This includes the typical “Mensch ärgere dich nicht” game, chess, checkers, halma or backgammon. Card games are also well suited in such situations, especially since they do not take up much space and do not weigh much.

Games

If you have your smartphone at hand, you can pass the time with mobile games and gamble a little.

Games for solo travelers

There is the traditional Rubik’s Cube, which can now be found in different shapes and sizes. Furthermore, Sudokus and crossword puzzles also offer an interesting pastime. Some card games can also be played alone. An example of this is the memory game.

If you like to draw, you can bring a small pad and a few pencils or buy it in one of the shops at the airport. There are tons of possibilities to fill a pad with different drawings that will serve as a beautiful memory months or even years later while looking at the old sketches.

Coming up with new games

Yes why not? At the airport, you have enough time to come up with new games.

A game might look like this:

Watch the people at the airport and choose a pair. Then you can ask yourself various questions:

  • How are they dressed?
  • How old could they be?
  • Where could they come from?
  • Could the couple be married?
  • Where could they work?
  • How did the couple meet?

Based on observation as well as questions and answers, you create a story, a biography, as if you were standing in the middle of a film. Another game could be based on parables, by looking at the travelers at the airport and trying to find any similarities to other well-known people.

More ways to pass the time

Often it is enough to just relax. When do you have the time in everyday life to simply do nothing? Meditation or listening to music can also help you relax.

On the other hand, you can also use access to the Internet or buy a travel guide and plan your vacation at the upcoming vacation destination. What sights are there? What should be visited first? What are the usual dishes? You can create a daily schedule while waiting, which you then follow on arrival. Reading up on the local history, culture and customs is also beneficial to better understand the people there and know exactly where you are going.

Mental and spiritual preparation for the holiday destination can help to better enjoy and exploit the time at the destination.

Why it is so nice to have an apartment in the city of Adria

PatrickJullien
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Why it is so nice to have an apartment in the city of Adria

The Italian Adriatic Sea is worth more than just a visit. It is one of the most beautiful regions in Italy, which has a lot to offer in terms of landscape and culture. There is a large selection of different holiday apartments in the region.
A holiday apartment on the Adriatic Sea in Italy
 is a great choice for your whole family!

Summer holidays on the Adriatic Sea

Summer is probably the most beautiful time of the year for most people. And in Italy , too, people enjoy spending the hottest time of the year on holiday by the sea. For Italians, “summer vacation” almost invariably means going to the Adriatic: lying on the beach, swimming and relaxing. For many holidaymakers, it is almost a tradition to go to the sea during the summer holidays. Sun, sand and sea are an absolute “must”. Some are drawn to popular destinations such as the Maldives, the Caribbean, or Polynesia. You don’t have to travel that far for an extensive holiday. The varied landscape of the Adriatic Sea and its kilometre-long coastlines offer many great opportunities to enjoy the perfect beach holiday. In this article, you will find some highlights of the Adriatic Sea that you should not miss.

Albarella: A beautiful island for the whole family

The breathtaking beach promenades and locations on Albarella offer fun and relaxation for young and old. Albarella offers a unique combination of lush nature and a wide range of sports that are rarely found elsewhere. On the private island there are beautiful beaches and interesting fauna. The varied water sports offer ranges from sailing, windsurfing, stand up paddling to kitesurfing. And golf fans will also get their money’s worth in Albarella. On the island of Albarella you will also find a wide range of holiday homes of different sizes and facilities that you can rent during the summer.

Parco Regionale Veneto del Delta del Po

In the Parco Regionale Veneto del Delta del Po you can take some of the most beautiful hikes on the Adriatic. First, follow Via Bindola, an almost deserted road that winds through green fields for about 6 km. While walking along the Manin Canal here, you will have an unobstructed view of the Veneto Dolomites on a clear day. From here you can reach the Amolaretta Youth Hostel . Then, crossing the state road, after a very short walk through the city, you will reach the Artesura route (cycle path marking 13). Now you can walk along the Canal Bianco while enjoying the beautiful view of Piazza Castello in the city center. With a total length of 15 kilometres, this easy route is also ideal for less trained beginners. It is suitable for anyone who wants to walk their dogs in peace. The Parco Regionale Veneto del Delta del Po is without a doubt one of the most beautiful natural parks in Italy.

Museo Archeologico Nazionale of Adria

The National Archaeological Museum was founded in 1904. In the first years of its existence, the exhibits came from local finds collected for over 150 years by the noble Bocchi family. The private collection was only converted into the National Museum in 1972. The museum’s impressive exhibits include Greek ceramics, refined Roman glass, and valuable funerary objects such as Attic vessels and Etruscan bronzes from the late Archaic and Classical periods. The current location was recently enlarged and renovated, and since then offers an exhibition area of more than 1200 square meters. The permanent exhibition shows the extraordinary ancient history of the lower Polesine and the port city of Adria, which originated in the sixth century BC on a branch of the Po Delta. The historic port city is also the namesake of the nearby Adriatic Sea.

Effective protection against theft – on the road and when travelling

PatrickJullien
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Effective protection against theft – on the road and when travelling

Effective protection against theft – on the road and when travelling

You get involved in a conversation, are briefly distracted or absent, and it can happen that your smartphone, wallet or other valuable items have been stolen. The big free safety guide for everyday life shows you how you can protect yourself on the road and when traveling with the right measures.

E-Book Tink
Image: Tink

Don’t let your everyday life or your vacation spoil you: With these 5 tips

The most effective means of protecting yourself against theft on the road and while traveling is prevention. It is important to make it as difficult as possible for the perpetrators to access. Effective measures do not have to be expensive and are often easy to implement. The following 5 tips will help you protect yourself from unpleasant surprises:

1. Carry the bag close to your body

The most effective way to protect your bag and its contents from theft is to carry them close to your body. Clamp the bag and the temple under your arm with the closure side facing the body.

2. Don’t take more than you need

Only take the valuables with you on your travels that you really need. You should also take as little cash as possible with you and keep it safe. It is best to carry the most important valuables with you. Stow cash and debit cards in the inside pockets of your bag.

3. Use safe in the hotel

In the hotel, you should use the safe to store your securities and cash that you don’t need on the road. This does not cost much, but effectively protects against theft. If there is no safe in the hotel, you can also hand in your valuables, credit and debit cards as well as cash to the hotel management.

4. Copy important documents

You should copy important documents for your trip, such as your identity card or passport, before you start your trip. Keep these copies separately in your luggage. So they won’t get lost if your bag is stolen.

5. Block bank cards

For your credit and debit cards, you should always have the blocking number 116 116 ready. Abroad, dial +49-116 116. If you notice that your card has been lost, you must have it blocked immediately.

Other safety precautions you should know

Many more helpful tips for your safety when traveling and on the road can be found in the free e-book “Protection against burglary and theft: Security guide for everyday life”. If you want to travel, you should secure the house or apartment early.

The e-book also informs you about security at home, protection against car and bicycle theft, and appropriate measures if a burglary or theft has actually occurred. You will get an insight into the perpetrators’ modus operandi will learn what makes them tick through original quotes. This makes it easier for you to understand their tactics and protect yourself accordingly. In the safety guide you will find inexpensive measures that can be implemented quickly, but also more extensive security precautions.

Grand Est – a region to fall in love with

PatrickJullien
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Grand Est – a region to fall in love with

Grand Est – this region is by no means unknown, as it includes Alsace, Champagne-Ardenne and Lorraine. As a result, cities with illustrious names such as Strasbourg, Nancy and Metz are also located in Grand Est. The capital of the French region is Strasbourg. Grand Est, this huge new region in eastern France was founded in 2016. It borders Belgium, Luxembourg, Germany and Switzerland. It is an interesting cultural melting pot, which is also clearly reflected in the architecture and gastronomy.

Grand Est has an interesting history to offer. In addition to art and culture, the region in eastern France offers a unique environment. White wines and champagne are produced in the important wineries. Gastronomic tours offer holidaymakers the opportunity to taste the wines in the cellars and discover the typical products of the region. White wines from Alsace come mainly from the renowned champagne production areas in Reims, Épernay and Châlons-en-Champagne.

Top things to do in Grand Est/France

Strasbourg, Cathedral
The cathedral of Strasbourg, Image: LaMiaFotografia / shutterstock

Strasbourg, the largest city in the region, is also the administrative capital. It is also known as one of the three seats of the European Parliament. The city offers visitors tourist attractions ranging from the Notre-Dame de Strasbourg cathedral with its Gothic style to the picturesque Petite France district on the Grande Île, (which is surrounded by water). Other highlights are the Strasbourg Cathedral. With its 140-metre-high tower, the sandstone building is one of the most important cathedrals in European architectural history. The cathedral is also very worth seeing because of its filigree façade.

The famous cities of the Grand Est also include Colmar with the Cathedral of San Martino and the half-timbered houses of the Petite Venise, as well as the green Metz and Reims, the city of kings and champagne. The medieval cities of Nancy and Troyes are not to be forgotten either. In addition to the dynamic metropolitan areas, there is also no shortage of picturesque villages, beautiful mountains, forests and lakes.

Other recommendations for the Grand Est

Epernay

Even if you’re not a wine lover, don’t miss a visit to the Mercier and Moêt & Chandon champagne cellars. The Maison Mercier, for example, can be explored by visitors on a small train that takes them through the cellars. Epernay is considered the center of champagne production. It is also worth strolling through the Avenue Champagne with its beautiful private villas. In the surrounding villages, there are also smaller champagne producers.

Reims

Head to Reims, where you’ll find the most famous and respected Champagne houses. In the historic village of Hautvillers, there is an abbey church that houses the tomb of the monk Dom Pérignon. In his time, he was significantly involved in the development of champagne production. Reims is known for its beautiful Notre-Dame de Reims Cathedral. Built in the 13th century, the Gothic building has been the home of many kings, hence the name of Reims as the “City of Coronations”. Visitors should also plan a visit to the Palais de Tau. There is a museum there where you can learn interesting facts about the history of the cathedral and the coronations of France’s kings. You can also take a drive through the picturesque northern vineyards of the Montagne de Reims.

Mines in Lorraine

Lorraine mines have significantly shaped the face of Lorraine as we know it today. In the Rouge-Montagne mine, for example, visitors to the region, equipped with helmets and headlamps, walk in the footsteps of the miners of the Dukes of Lorraine. Afterwards, they will be guided through an exhibition of tools, equipment and videos.

Metz

The city center of Metz (Lorraine) is full of elegant streets and villas, starting with the Temple Neuf or the Porte des Allemands, a well-preserved gateway from the 13th century. This district goes back to an idea of the German Emperor Wilhelm II, after it became part of the “Second Empire” (1871 to 1918) in 1871. An interesting bridge spans the river Seille. The Centre Pompidou in Metz exhibits temporary collections. The ramparts of Metz are still well preserved. Another eye-catcher is the stained glass windows of the Gothic Saint Étienne cathedral.

Nancy

Nancy, Grand-Est
The city center of Nancy, Image: olrat / shutterstock

The historical significance of the city is immediately noticeable. After all, Nancy is the capital of the former Duchy of Lorraine. Stanislas Square in Nancy is considered one of the most beautiful squares in Europe. Place Stanislas is also the city’s landmark. It was built in 1752 and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Around the Place Stanislas, in addition to the town hall, there is the opera theatre, the “Museum of Fine Arts” and lots of interesting shops.

The battlefield of Verdun

In 1916, the longest battle in the history of mankind took place in this place. There were 302 days of uninterrupted fighting, which ended with a French victory and the failure of the German troops. Today, the Verdun battlefield is a place of remembrance for France and the whole world. The bloody battles and unprecedented artillery duels are highlighted by memorials such as the forts of Vaux and Douaumont, as well as the Verdun Memorial and the Douaumont Ossuary. The more than 100-year-old battle sites have remained intact to this day.

Monkey Mountain

We also present the famous Affenberg, founded in 1969, below Kintzheim Castle in Alsace. The Berber macaque breeding farm is home to about 300 Barber macaques of all ages. They live freely all year round in a 25-hectare pine forest. There are several kilometers of marked educational and hiking trails in the park. During demonstrations, the feeding of the animals can be observed.

Tenerife – holiday paradise in the heart of the Canary Islands

PatrickJullien
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Tenerife – holiday paradise in the heart of the Canary Islands

Picturesque hills with laurel and pine forests, which alternate with a wildly romantic volcanic landscape, fantastic beaches, historical monuments and a diverse cuisine characterize the Canary Island of Tenerife. The most populous island in Spain attracts sun worshippers, families and active holidaymakers year after year. Party-goers get their money’s worth at Playa de las Americas, while history lovers walk in the footsteps of the indigenous people, the Guanches. Traditional towns with quaint pubs and narrow, flower-filled streets invite you to take a stroll, and in the hinterland the majestic Mount Teide rises.

Picturesque natural scenery and relaxed beaches

Tenerife is an island born of fire. Visitors can see this especially near the fishing village of Garachio. The interesting rock formations were created by a volcanic eruption in the 18th century and formed natural pools with deep blue water in which it is wonderful to swim. The most famous fire-breathing mountain on the island is the Teide volcano. It erupted for the last time in 1909 and is now located in a national park.

The summit of Mount Teide is above the clouds and is a popular destination for hiking – provided you wear warm clothing. There are also many beaches that bear witness to Tenerife’s volcanic past, including Playa El Bollullo with its fine, black sand. But white sand can also be found on the coast around the island. The crystal clear waters are suitable for diving, for example to the Tabaiba, a shipwreck that is now home to an impressive underwater world. In addition, whales and dolphins are at home in the waters off the coast.

If you want to admire idyllic lakes and waterfalls , you should take a boat trip to the island of La Gomera . Visitors can also see the small island from the Barranco de Masca mountain range with its majestic gorges. On the other hand, guests can experience adventures underground in the Cueva del Viento cave with its cooled lava lakes and bizarre rock formations. A special landmark of Tenerife is the thousand-year-old tree with its gnarled trunk. It is also called the dragon tree because, according to legend, it germinated from a drop of dragon’s blood.

Cultural sights and museums

Tenerife, Teide
View of Mount Teide, Image: Mikadun / shutterstock

Many peoples and cultures have left their mark on Tenerife , and holidaymakers can understand this by visiting the numerous historical monuments. Among the most interesting are the Pirámides de Güímar, stone pyramids that were discovered in the 90s and whose purpose scientists have still not sufficiently clarified.

The city of San Cristóbal has an old town worth seeing. Many buildings, including Laguna Cathedral, date back to the 16th and 18th centuries. Millions of guests make the pilgrimage to the Basílica de Nuestra Señora de Candelaria with its golden altar every year, and visitors marvel at ornate Renaissance buildings in the small town of La Orotava with its narrow streets. Next to it is the Jardín de aclimatación. The Botanical Garden is home to a variety of exotic plants that were originally stored for acclimatization and then brought to Spain.

In addition to historical monuments, visitors to Tenerife will find a number of interesting museums. The Tenerife Espacio de las Artes (https://teatenerife.es/) mainly exhibits contemporary artists. You can learn more about the geography and flora and fauna of Tenerife at the Museo de la Naturaleza y el Hombre. Here, visitors also learn everything they need to know about the cultural history of the original inhabitants. If you’re interested in space travel and astrology, head to the Museo de la Ciencia y el Cosmos, which houses interactive exhibits and a planetarium.

Modern attractions and culinary delights in Tenerife

Tip: Also visit our article: The most beautiful beaches of Tenerife
For active holidaymakers and families with children , Tenerife offers a variety of exciting leisure activities. Southeast Asian flair spreads the Siam Park adventure pool. Spread over 48 acres, the water park features thrilling waterslides amid colorful Thai buildings like a palace and floating market. Visitors can experience even more bathing fun at Aqualand, which has slides and wave pools as well as a dolphinarium and a dolphin museum. Loro Parque Zoo is particularly known for its colorful parrots, but it is also home to other exotic animals such as sea lions, whales, tigers, chimpanzees and alligators. Water sports enthusiasts will get their money’s worth at El Médano beach, which is particularly popular with kitesurfers. And if you visit Tenerife in February, you should definitely experience the carnival in Santa Cruz. The whole city celebrates this festival with colourful parades and samba rhythms.

Canarian cuisine is known for its hearty dishes such as meat stews, boiled potatoes and spicy paprika sausage. But fish, seafood and squid are also served here. Of course, a glass of red wine should not be missing. Fortunately, the dry climate and the many sunny days ensure that the vines thrive magnificently on the wine terraces.

Verbier – A Valais mountain village of the world

PatrickJullien
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Verbier – A Valais mountain village of the world

Verbier, a quaint mountain village located above the Val de Bagnes in the Swiss canton of Valais, attracts hikers and ski enthusiasts from all over the world. As part of the “Les Quatres Vallées”, the largest winter sports area in Switzerland, Verbier is referred to by connoisseurs as the world capital of mountain sports. Here you can find out why a visit to the cozy mountain village is worthwhile all year round.

Les Quatres Vallées – Four Valleys and One Vision

Verbier
Image: Alexander Chizhenok / shutterstock

The region “Les Quatres Vallées” (4-Vallées for short) includes six villages, including Nendaz, La Tzoumaz, Veysonnaz, Thyon, Les Collons, Les Masses, Bruson and Verbier. All six villages are located south of the Rhône and extend over four side valleys, which is why the region is called 4-Vallées (French for four valleys).

The 4-Vallées ski area, which is now connected, did not come into being overnight, but has developed over many decades from skiing in the individual areas. The region is now criss-crossed by a seamless network of slopes and lifts. The three pioneers of Swiss winter sports and mountain railway operators, Rodolphe Tissières, Michel Michelet and René Fournier, had been pursuing this vision since the 1970s and achieved a breakthrough in the unification of the valleys in 1976 through the association of existing mountain railways and the construction of additional cable cars. Meanwhile, the ski area around 4-Vallées is so large that one visit is not enough to explore the entire variety of slopes, which distinguishes the 4-Vallées from the other smaller ski resorts in Switzerland. Despite its dimensions, the entire area of the 4-Vallées with its total of 410 kilometres of slopes can be used with just one ski pass.

Verbier’s unique winter fun – with and without runners

With the first snowfall, Verbier is transformed into a paradise for winter sports. A cable car leads to the highest point of the ski area, the summit of Mont Fort, which is located at around 3,300 meters above sea level and offers a breathtaking view of the Matterhorn, Mont Blanc and the Grand Combin. From there, you have a free choice of how to get on on ski slopes, snowshoe trails, winter hiking trails and cross-country ski trails.

As one of the largest ski resorts in Switzerland, Verbier offers pure skiing fun on over 200 kilometres of slopes in the months from November to the end of April. Both absolute beginners and daring advanced skiers get their money’s worth here on blue slopes, mogul slopes and world-famous freeride routes. The mountain village is also a stage on the so-called “Haute Route”, a ski crossing along breathtaking high alpine glacier landscapes in the direction of Saas Fee and Zermatt – a must for lovers of long ski tours.

Numerous marked winter hiking trails make it possible to discover the landscape on foot. Accompanied by the winter sun, kilometre-long hikes lead through snow-covered forests and over gigantic sun terraces with breathtaking views to rustic mountain huts where you can relax with coffee, hot chocolate or tea. Particularly popular routes lead from Périn to Les Planards or from Les Ruinettes along a wide path through the Alps towards Alpage de la Chaux.

Verbier is also at the top of the world in terms of tobogganing. The toboggan run from Savoleyres to La Tzoumaz is the longest toboggan run in French-speaking Switzerland and offers fast-paced fun for young and old over 10 kilometres long and over 800 metres in altitude.

If you still haven’t had enough in the evening after the action on the slopes, hiking trails and the like, you can enjoy the varied après-ski offer and the aperitifs of Verbier.

Even in summer there is a lot going on here

Mont Fort
The Mont Fort, Image: mountainpix / shutterstock

Verbier is not only a winter sports mecca, but also offers pure fun in summer with its charming landscape on over 900 kilometres of hiking trails, 800 kilometres of mountain bike trails and perfect conditions for paragliders and climbers.

Verbier’s hiking trails stretch in the Val de Bagnes along the breathtaking backdrop of the Mont Blanc massif, Mont Velans and the Combins massif. Professional hikers can also explore the snow-covered mountain landscapes around Verbier in summer. And for those looking for something a little less action-packed, two golf courses and a sports club with sauna, tennis and squash facilities offer a weatherproof alternative.

If that’s still not enough, you get a huge range of international top events on top. In July, classical music lovers from all over the world come together at the 17-day Verbier Festival to forge a bond between old masters of classical music and talents from the younger generations against the backdrop of the magnificent Swiss Alps. Less cultural and more action is available on the Xtreme Verbier, the Freeride World Tour, where the world’s top freeride riders meet between March and April to reach for the world championship title.

… and it still remains cozy!

Despite the growth in tourism in recent years and the now about 4000 inhabitants, Verbier retains its village charm. Unlike surrounding ski resorts with a similar footfall, Verbier refrains from building huge hotels and instead remains true to the style of traditional slate-roofed chalets and small guesthouses.

Tirana – Albania’s diverse capital

PatrickJullien
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Tirana – Albania’s diverse capital

Albania is known for its numerous natural treasures and is often referred to as the wild Balkans. But not only the fantastically wild landscapes and the Mediterranean climate are worth a trip, but also the capital Tirana, which is well worth seeing. The vibrant capital attracts not only with an interesting history, but also with a wide range of cultural offerings, numerous sights and the Dajti National Park.

Tirana’s green side

View of Tirana on the Dajiti Express
View from the cable car of the Dajiti to Tirana, Image: PaulSat / shutterstock

The metropolis, port and university city of Tirana also inspires with its location. Tirana’s local mountain Dajti rises in the east of the city and gives its name to the Dajti National Park. In the particularly charming mountain landscape, there are traces of prehistoric settlements, remains of numerous fortifications, deep river valleys and the surrounding mountains.

The mountain is also often referred to as the balcony of Tirana, because it offers a fabulously beautiful view of the capital of Albania, which lies at the foot of the mountain. If you don’t want to miss the view, but don’t feel like an arduous ascent, you can easily reach the local mountain from the eastern outskirts of Tirana by cable car. However, the summit of Dajti cannot be climbed, because it is still a military restricted area today. Summiteers can alternatively climb the Maje e Tujanit.

Around the turbulent capital there are also beautiful river valleys and idyllic lakes. Lake Tirana is very popular in the large park, which is located on the southern edge of the city center and was artificially created in 1956. However, Fakra Lake, Kashar Lake and Paskuqan Lake are also popular with locals and tourists.

However, Albania has more to offer than just the capital Tirana. We therefore recommend Jörg Martin Dauscher’s declaration of love “111 reasons to love Albania”. Here you will find exciting and funny stories that are a pleasure to visit the Balkan country. It is best to order the book under the ISBN 978-3-86265-786-5 from your local bookseller

The sights of the charming port city of Tirana

Tirana is not only the political center of Albania, but also the cultural one. The area of today’s Tirana has been inhabited since the Paleolithic Age. Since then, today’s capital has experienced many ups and downs. Although the city has always played an important role thanks to its port, it was not until 1920 that it was designated as the capital. Today, Tirana is a big city and attracts visitors with the country’s largest museums, excellent art galleries and other cultural institutions such as the Palace of Culture, the State Opera and Ballet Theatre and the National Library. In particular, the National Historical Museum, the National Archaeological Museum and the National Art Gallery attract visitors from all over the world. But the botanical and zoological gardens of the metropolis are also extremely worth seeing. A visit to the Sky Tower is also a special experience, as there is a revolving restaurant here that offers a magnificent view of the city.

But there is also a lot to discover on a stroll through the city. Among other things, every visitor to Tirana should visit the equestrian statue in honor of Skanderbeg, a prince from the Albanian noble family of the Kastrioti. The equestrian statue can be found on the square of the same name. The prince became known for defending the Principality of Kastrioti against the Ottomans and is now considered an Albanian national hero who is revered throughout the country. Also worth seeing is the Et’hem Bey Mosque and, of course, the city’s landmark: a 35-metre-high tower built in 1830. Likewise, in Tirana there is the Monuemtal statue of the Mother of Albania, which every visitor to the city should have seen. Some stone arch bridges from the Ottoman period have also been preserved to this day, as well as castles and mosques. However, the most famous and impressive sight is the early Byzantine fortress Petrela. In addition, there are numerous city villas that are architecturally interesting and the Piramida, the pyramid-shaped building that once housed the Enver Hocha Museum. But in Tirana there are even the settlements, some of which were built illegally, with their prefabricated buildings, some of which were colorfully embellished by the artist and politician Edi Rama in a “painting action”.

Modern metropolis and forgotten traditions

Neighborhoods like Blloku stand for the modern and lively Tirana. This booming district is often referred to as the “playground of the young elite” and is characterised by boutiques, trendy restaurants, numerous cafés and bars. Tirana’s extreme growth in recent decades can be traced back to the rural exodus in Albania, as young people in particular are drawn to the capital to attend university and work here. While very old traditions are still maintained, especially in the mountain villages of Albania, they have long been forgotten in Tirana. Tirana has become a modern and cosmopolitan university city that offers excellent shopping opportunities, attractive cultural offerings and a varied nightlife. Albania’s capital presents itself as European and can certainly keep up with other metropolises.

The capital as a religious melting pot

The metropolis is also considered a religious melting pot, because the once Sunni-Islamic capital now has many inhabitants of other denominations and also many atheists who no longer belong to any religious community after the former communist rule. Tirana is the seat of the Grand Mufti of the Muslim community of Albania, but also the world centre of the Bektashi Order and the seat of the Catholic and Orthodox archbishops. A small Jewish community has also formed in the city and opened a synagogue, and communities of the Baha’i, the Ahmadiyya and the Jehovah’s Witnesses can also be found in the metropolis.

Culinary highlights in the capital

Albanian cuisine has a lot to offer, because it has been influenced by numerous nations and so Albanian cuisine is very Mediterranean and at the same time the oriental influences are unmistakable and the typical Balkan cuisine is also strongly represented. The Albanians are generally very hospitable and like to invite. Guests are more than well catered for here, as several dishes are usually served at once. The pita, which is prepared with a wide variety of fillings, is usually not to be missed.

But Trahana is also typical. Rice dishes with meat such as pilaf are just as much a part of Albanian cuisine as ayvar, cheese in all variations, flatbread and turshia (fried and then pickled vegetables). Soups and stews are also often served and there are also a wide variety of influences when it comes to desserts, as the spectrum ranges from baklava to pancakes. One of the most popular drinks is black tea, but mocha is also popular.

Top 7 Vacation Destinations for Poker Players

PatrickJullien
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Top 7 Vacation Destinations for Poker Players

Online poker is a great invention that brings together millions of people from all over the world to bluff, raise and make profits at any time and place. If you’re one of those people who stays up in front of your computer screen until the wee hours of the morning, you’ve probably thought about taking your poker passion outside of your living room.

If playing against someone on the other side of the world is part of what attracted you to
online poker
 in the first place, why not combine the love of meeting new people, traveling, and playing poker by booking a fantastic poker vacation?

1. Las Vegas, Nevada | United States

Las Vegas, The Strip
THE STRIP in Las Vegas at night, Image: Philip Bird LRPS CPAGB / shutterstock

At the top of our list is the unique Las Vegas. Located in the American state of Nevada, this is the poker vacation you can only dream of. With over 32 casinos on the Las Vegas Strip and many more in the surrounding streets, you have a wide range of tables to choose from.

Binions Casino is a great place for beginners with tables starting at $2 and $4, while the pros out there will love “Bobby’s Room” at Bellagio, one of the best casinos in the world, which offers a range of high-limit games. Aside from poker, Las Vegas is quite simply one of the most incredible places in the world – as surreal as it is captivating.

2. Paradise Island, New Providence | Bahamas

If you want to play in front of one of the most beautiful backdrops in the world, look no further than Paradise Island in New Providence, Bahamas. This island is home to the world-famous Atlantis Casino, where Poker Star’s Caribbean Adventure takes place.

This casino offers you three poker variants, including Five Card, Three Card Progressive, and Ultimate Texas Hold’em Poker. If you’re taking your family with you, there are a whole host of water parks, nightly entertainment, and fantastic beaches to give you a well-deserved break from poker. There’s not much better than the combination of sun, sand, and serious poker!

3. Monte Carlo | Monaco

Monte Carlo – the original home of upscale gambling and perhaps the most glamorous place in the world. Whether you’re interested in the history of casinos or just a big Bond fan, this is where it all started. The iconic Monte Carlo Casino is a fantastic place for a poker holiday, as not only does it host the annual Grand Final of the European Poker Tour, but it also has a wide range of poker tables to suit all budgets.

The city itself offers a wealth of attractions that make a great poker vacation even better. Watch a Formula 1 race, stroll through the charming, money-drenched streets, or try one of Monaco’s many beaches and world-famous restaurants.

4. Macau | China

Those of you looking for a truly once-in-a-lifetime poker holiday should book your next flight to the Macau region of China. Dubbed the next Vegas, this place has become so popular that PokerStars has included it in its Asian Pacific Poker Tour.

There are plenty of casinos and poker rooms to choose from (most notably the Venetian), but the best action can be found at Casino Babylon and Casino Macau Palace, which offer a good selection of limits. This is an ideal poker holiday for the adventurous gambler who wants to visit an up-and-coming center of worldwide gambling.

5. Los Angeles, California | United States

Los Angeles, Hollywood Sign
The world-famous Hollywood sign Hollywood Sign, Image: Ingus Kruklitis / shutterstock

A poker vacation in the Californian city of Los Angeles combines Hollywood glamour, sun-drenched beaches and good, old-fashioned gambling. A special mention deserves Commerce Casino, supposedly the “largest poker casino in the world” with over 240 card tables to choose from.

If you’re looking to recover from the filth after successfully turning your online poker skills into cash, you’ll find the best there is in the shops on Rodeo Drive. If success fails to materialize, there’s still plenty to do: take the kids to Disneyland, enjoy some of the best surf spots in the world, and visit the Hollywood Walk of Fame to see some celebrity stars.

6. Barcelona, Catalonia | Spain

A poker holiday in Barcelona offers the perfect mix of great culture and impressive gambling opportunities. Try El Casino de Barcelona, which hosts the EPT at the end of August and has an excellent selection of poker tables, as well as a range of other card and slot games for your enjoyment.

Barcelona is a great place for a family holiday, where your loved ones will have the opportunity to enjoy wonderful art, majestic architecture and some of the best food in Europe.

7. San Jose, San Jose | Costa Rica

For a poker vacation in South America, you should head to San Jose, the capital of Costa Rica where most of the country’s casinos are located. The city used to be one of the main stops on the Latin American Poker Tour, and nearby Playa Conchal offers some of the best gambling opportunities in the country.

Hotel Del Rey has a great poker atmosphere, perfect for a game night after a day exploring Costa Rica’s beaches, rainforest and laid-back culture that makes the country so popular.

 

Syracuse – a walk through history

PatrickJullien
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0
Syracuse – a walk through history

Sicily – this island is without a doubt one of the most beautiful sides of Italy. It is embraced by a sometimes gentle and sometimes wild sea and blessed with an almost permanently serene sky. If you stroll through the ancient city of Syracuse in Sicily with your eyes open, you will embark on a journey into the past and thus into the varied history of this region. Before Syracuse became what it is today, Romans and Greeks were here. The holidaymaker follows in the footsteps of this era during a stay in this cheerful yet melancholic city.

The hometown of the genius Archimedes

Syracuse is also associated with the name of a historical figure. With that of the brilliant mathematician, designer and physicist Archimedes. Even though much of the Greek’s life remained hidden behind a veil, this man became a legend. Not least because he rendered outstanding services to Syracuse in the Second Punic War between the forces of Rome and Carthage by developing completely new throwing machines for his Sicilian hometown during the siege. Several centuries later, Syracuse replaced Constantinople as the capital of the Eastern Roman Empire, albeit only for a short time. This metropolis in the deep European south can look back on a rich history. And she is proud of the testimonies of past eras.

The statue of the Apostle Paul

The first traces of Syracuse have been found on the Ortygia peninsula. Here there was an abundant freshwater spring not far from the meandering rivers Ciana and Anapo, the Fonte Aretusa, which still bubbles today. The city was founded during the reign of the tyrant Dionysius, but the terrain of the so-called “quail island” Ortygia soon became too small to accommodate almost five hundred thousand people. But the ancient core of Syracuse is located in Ortygia, with the winding streets of a charming old town. Between the ruins of the Temple of Apollo and the historic harbor, there is haggling as always over the price of the fish caught. On the site of the former temple veneration for the deity Athena, a Christian church now rises on the cathedral square. Many devout Sicilians are convinced that the apostle Paul landed in Syracuse on his way to Rome . A statue has been dedicated to him in front of the cathedral.

The Old Town in the UNESCO List

Apollo Temple in the center of Ortigia, Syracuse
Apollo Temple in the center of Ortigia, Image: Jan Cattaneo / shutterstock

When Syracuse was almost completely destroyed by a devastating earthquake in 1693, the city was rebuilt in the Baroque style. Santa Maria delle Colonne, the main church of the city, was created as an amazing architectural mixture of different elements. Here you will find a mixture of temples of antiquity as well as Norman architectural styles and the perfect devotion to the Baroque. Inside the cathedral, the beautiful mosaic work and the four-metre-high silver statue of Saint Lucia are remarkable. The wooden roof from the 16th century has been preserved. In the evening hours, the Piazza del Duomo in the old town develops a very unusual flair and could serve as a cinematic backdrop with its palazzi. It was probably the collection of testimonies of different cultures that prompted UNESCO to include the entire historic center of Syracuse in the list of World Heritage Sites.

The famous “Ear of Dionysius”

Visitors to the city are often overwhelmed by the power and grandeur of Syracuse. After all, this metropolis was a kind of cosmopolitan city on the Mediterranean for a long time. At the latest when visiting the archaeological park Neapolis, the guest gets an impression of the former dimensions. In addition to the huge amphitheater with its once 15,000 seats, the so-called “Ear of Dionysius” is a visitor magnet in the park. This is a cave in the limestone. The entrance to this 65-metre-deep grotto actually resembles a human ear and has always been the birthplace of various legends. The cave is part of the “Latomia del Paradiso”, a quarry where material was extracted for the construction of the ancient city. Friedrich Schiller was inspired by the “Ear of Dionysius” to write his ballad “Die Bürgschaft”.

Refuge of the early Christians

Roman Amphitheater, Syracuse
Roman Amphitheater, Image: Michele Ponzio / shutterstock

This city by the sea breathes history with its archaeological sites, but also with its museums worth seeing. The city dedicates the Museo Arkimedeion to Archimedes, the most famous son of Syracuse. The mathematician’s discoveries are the focus here, and because all this has been prepared in an understandable way, a visit to this house is also recommended for young people. In the ancient area called “Tyche”, the path of the visitors leads into the underworld. Not far from Viale Teocrito, the famous catacombs of Syracuse were built. They were once the refuge of the early Christians, who had to hide from the Roman soldiers. However, the fact that the apostle Paul visited this site could be part of the legend. The fact is that in these catacombs the Christians laid their dead to rest. The Basilica of San Martino is one of the oldest places of worship in Syracuse. It dates back to the 6th century BC and is located opposite Palazzo Bellomo. And if you have studied the ancient sites on the Ortigia peninsula, you should definitely visit the Castello Maniace. It was the Byzantines who started building this house as early as the 11th century. However, the Castello was not completed until the reign of Frederick II.

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