Anyone who travels today has to worry about more than just what things end up in the suitcase. Individual travelers in particular should take precautions. Not only do we as a person travel, but also our online life is always with us – and this is what should be protected more than ever when traveling.
The upcoming holiday presents people in Germany with different challenges. On the one hand, it is important to find a travel destination where you can enjoy your free time relatively safely. In addition, it makes sense not to be too careless with the data shared daily on the Internet. Especially in foreign countries and cities , the standard of digital security is often completely different from that in this country. Accordingly, the question of how it is possible to surf safely abroad is important. There are some tips for this aspect of the trip.
Accessibility is important not only at home, but also on holiday. In addition, many use the time to communicate with friends or share their experiences on social networks. Conveniently, the traveler can now access Internet access almost everywhere in the tourist strongholds – this can be found in hotels, cafés, train stations, airports, restaurants and many other places. However, public Wi-Fi networks are often insecure and the perfect place for hacker attacks.
In order not to disclose one’s own data via such a network, it is advisable to use one’s own mobile network. This is a reliable option, especially for people who want to shop online on their vacation or need to do banking.
The alternative to this is a VPN service. This secures the information sent via public hotspots by encrypting it. This means that third parties cannot simply access the data sent through the VPN tunnel. Furthermore, it is important to use a VPN provider that can also be used to manage passwords . This means that the traveller always has complex passwords at hand and knows that they are stored safely. This is because a password manager works like a digital safe that securely stores login data, credit card numbers and much more in encrypted form.
2. Back up data
Before the trip, it is important to back up the data for all devices that are carried. This way, nothing is lost in the event of loss or damage . It would also make sense to store important documents, telephone numbers and copies of travel documents in a secure cloud. If documents are lost or stolen, proof of identification is available, at least at short notice.
3. Updates and helpful apps
Before departure, all available security updates for the corresponding operating system should be applied. Apps should also be updated. In addition to the VPN service, antivirus protection is essential. Apps that help with navigation or translation also help.
4. “Holiday mobile phone”
The safest option is still an extra device with a prepaid SIM card for the upcoming trip. Especially when it’s really just about staying reachable. If you want to take photos and videos, you can do so with a real photo camera. Content created in this way can then be shared after the holiday. This also enables a “social media detox” during the free time.
Economically successful, steeped in history, remarkable nature – that’s Virginia, a state in the United States. And not to forget: Virginia is also called the ‘Mother of the Presidents’, because no fewer than eight presidents come from there, including George Washington, the first president of the USA. He found his final resting place at his own request in Mount Vernon at his country estate. It is worth a detour for several reasons. On the one hand, it is picturesquely located on the north bank of the Potomac River, and on the other hand, the former country estate of Washington attracts visitors with unusual sights.
Washington was not only a warlord and president, but also a highly committed farmer. The farm, which is praised as a model farm, is more than three hectares in size, where straw was threshed in a 16-sided granary with the help of horses. How this worked back then is faithfully re-enacted. The dark sides of that time, namely the slaves who worked for Washington on the farm, are commemorated by a monument in Mount Vernon.
On a first-name basis with bears and lynxes
Pure nature can be found in Shenandoah National Park near Waynesboro. It is located in the Blue Ridge Mountain range, which in turn is part of the Appalachian Mountains, a massive mountain system with a length of 2400 kilometers. If you have a lot of time and are good on foot, you can set off on the Appalachian Trail, one of the longest long-distance hiking trails in the world at 3500 kilometers. The shorter route of 160 kilometers, which leads right through Shenandoah National Park, is a little less strenuous. Black bears, moose, bobcats, raccoons or white-tailed deer are not uncommon as animal companions.
Hotspot for cineastes
Despite the many natural beauties, there are only two natural lakes in Virginia, Lake Drummond and Mountain Lake. The oval-shaped Lake Drummond is located in the middle of a swamp area, the Great Dismal Swamp. A meteorite impact could possibly be responsible for the formation of the lake. If you take a trip to the protected swamps, you will be rewarded with more than 200 species of birds, as well as otters, minks or grey squirrels, not to mention lizards, turtles and salamanders. Mountain Lake in Pembroke stands out for its large sandstone cliffs that surround the entire lake. And slightly elevated on the shore is a hotel that cineastes immediately recognize: The cult film ‘Dirty Dancing’ was filmed there.
Lonely island with wild ponies
Ponies on Assatague Island, Image: Scenic Corner / shutterstock
A trip to Assategue Island promises absolute solitude in nature. The uninhabited dune island is a biosphere reserve and consists of long sandy beaches and bays. The fascinating thing about the small island, however, are the wild Assateague ponies, which thunder over the sandy beaches with their small hooves. According to old stories, the animals were able to swim to the island after a shipwreck on the American east coast.
A seaside resort of a special kind
If you are now in the mood for a few days of beach vacation, make a detour to Virginia Beach, the largest city in the country. This popular seaside resort on the Atlantic does not have to fear sunny competitors such as California or Florida . On the unusually long sandy beach of 45 kilometers, there should be no space problems. Surfers, sailors, divers and snorkelers are out and about in and on the water. The promenade is populated by cyclists and hikers, who can admire flora and fauna (including whales and dolphins) along the route. A huge statue of Neptune on the beach promenade is a reminder of the Neptune Festival, which takes place annually at the end of September and is internationally known for the International Sandsculpting Championship, where unique sculptures are created from sand. Rubber boots instead of flip-flops are the order of the day when visiting an oyster farm, where you can experience the harvest of these delicious seafood up close, including a tasting of pleasure.
Where the English once went ashore
History and nature are close together at First Landing State Park, located on the northern stretch of Virginia Beach. This park is 2,888 hectares in size with hiking trails, forests, freshwater ponds, salt marshes and swamps. Kilometres of hiking trails lead through this natural monument, with its highly endangered coastal habitats. If you are out and about in one of the cypress swamps there in autumn, you will experience a unique natural spectacle. In the right light, the swamp is transformed into a rainbow-colored work of art. The park is historically significant because the first English settlers landed there in 1607. Later, they moved upriver and established the Jamestown colony, a good hour from Virginia Beach. A trip there is worthwhile, because the story of the landing is re-enacted in an entertaining way in typical American style.
On tour in Richmond
View of the Richmond skyline, Image: Sean Pavone / shutterstock
Of course, Virginia’s capital, Richmond, should not be missing from the tour. Cultural life takes place there at a high level. The Virginia Museum of Fine Arts has an important collection of famous painters, from Rubens to Delacroix to Rousseau. If you feel like it, you can get to know the 15 historical landmarks of the city on foot. These include the oldest church in St. John’s, the Virginia Capitol or the Slave Trail, which tells the story of the transatlantic slave trade. Not to forget the Edgar Allan Poe Museum. A more leisurely stroll is in a sightseeing bus or with a Segway. These electrically powered vehicles for one person can be found on every corner in Richmond.
Farmer’s Market and Beer Trail
Light-hearted entertainment can be found in the Carytown neighborhood of the Museum District. You can spend hours in restaurants, bars, shops, junk shops and at the farmer’s market. Beer lovers will enjoy the Richmond Beer Trail, which is home to a whopping 30 breweries. For art lovers, the Richmond Symphony, the Richmond Ballet or the Virginia Opera offer a feast for the ears and eyes.
In the north of the USA lies a natural paradise that protects much of North America’s fascinating wilderness areas. Untouched snow and ice landscapes as well as exotic flora and fauna unfold in Alaska. Whether whale watching, a road trip on the Alaska Highway or a tour with the Alaska Railroad – anyone who visits the cold north of the USA almost automatically immerses themselves in unforgettable natural worlds. Anchorage, Seward and Juneau offer an insight into everyday life in the country. The sparsely populated and extraordinary natural scenery of gigantic glaciers, the highest mountains in North America and species-rich wilderness has visibly earned the nickname The Last Frontier.
Glaciers, Mountains, Lakes – Natural Alaska
Nothing less than the largest state in the USA unfolds in the northwest of the North American continent, through Canada separated from the rest of Germany: Alaska. Thousands of lakes, about 100,000 glacier-like formations and over 200,000 km² of untouched wild landscapes characterize the extraordinary US state. In total, Alaska protects more than 50 percent of the U.S. protected wilderness. The numerous national parks offer proof – from Denali National Park to Glacier Bay National Park to Wrangell-St. Elias National Park. The latter two are home to internationally recognized UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Such extraordinary landscapes prove: Alaska is a natural paradise in the north of the USA.
Denali National Park in Alaska, Image: Marc Cappelletti / shutterstock
Denali National Park in the heart of the country is considered the most visited. Hundreds of thousands of visitors are drawn to the nature reserve, which spreads over more than 19,000 km² every year. Founded in 1917, the park is formed around the eponymous mountain, the highest in North America. 6190 meters above sea level make Denali one of the Seven Summmits, the highest mountains on the continents. Even from a distance, it forms a breathtaking photo motif that symbolizes the untouched and powerful nature of Alaska. Denali National Park unfolds in the northern part of the Alaska Range, which stretches all the way to the Yukon of Canada. The extraordinary natural world is home to wild animals such as grizzly bears, wolves, moose and over 160 bird species, some of which are exotic. The park is strictly protected and can only be reached on selected routes: whether via the George Parks Highway starting in Anchorage or via the Alaska Railroad.
In general, there are few more beautiful ways to explore the heart of Alaska than via the Alaska Railroad. If you want to get to know the region from a different perspective, the famous railway offers a route from Seward via Anchorage to Fairbanks. The scenic route leads through Alaska’s nature and landscapes and offers a comfortable alternative to the road trip. Some of the railway tours also offer integrated sightseeing opportunities. The Alaska Highway also offers a fantastic route, which is considered one of the most beautiful panoramic routes for a road trip in the world. It runs from British Columbia’s Dawsons Creek from Canada through the Yukon to Fairbanks. Long sections of the more than 2,000 km long roads lead through untouched wilderness. If you are planning a scenic road trip through Alaska, you should not miss the route.
Not only in Northern Europe, but also in Alaska, the famous Northern Lights unfold. If you are lucky, you can observe the colorful natural spectacle in national parks such as Denali in appropriate seasons. But the UNESCO World Heritage Site Glacier Bay National Park also provides good reasons for a visit. Highlights are the eponymous glaciers, which attract hundreds of thousands of visitors every year. Guided tours and boat routes take you to the park’s well-known sights, including the edges of some of the approximately 100 glaciers in the designated park area. The Wrangell-St. Elias National Park & Reserve, which is not only the largest national park in the country, but also forms the largest contiguous wilderness area in the USA with more than 3.6 million hectares. It is home to 9 of the 16 highest elevations in the United States – as well as the Kennecott Mines National Historic Landmark, a former copper mine that is now one of Alaska’s tourist attractions.
Anchorage, Seward, Juneau – Alaska from an urban perspective
View of Anchorage, Image: Rex Lisman / shutterstock
The capital of Alaska, Juneau, is itself embedded in a scenic nature area. Located on the Gastineau Channel Strait, Glacier Bay National Park is less than 100 km away. About 15 km from the city gates rests the Mendenhall Glacier, which is part of the Juneau Icefield. The Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center has been set up on site for visitors, which in normal years welcomes about half a million visitors a year – and provides a clear insight into the history of the important glacier. The capital Juneau is home to about 30,000 inhabitants – and is not only a political center of Alaska, but also an important access point to the nature of the US state. Not far away is the natural paradise of Tongass National Forest.
Anchorage is by far the largest settlement in Alaska, home to about 290,000 inhabitants. Anchorage is thus an important cultural and infrastructural center of the country. Here you can visit the Alaska Botanical Garden, the Alaska Zoo and the Anchroage Museum. The latter offers a deeper understanding of Alaska’s land, art, and history. The University of Alaska Museum of the North in Fairbanks, which offers a multifaceted look at Alaska’s rich cultural history, is also one of the country’s renowned museums. The 2,000-inhabitant community of Seward in the south of the country is rather tranquil in comparison, but it is not without reason one of Alaska’s tourist attractions. Located on scenic Resurrection Bay, it stands out as a gateway to Alaska’s nature: whether through local boat and helicopter tours or the popular whale watching from here. Whether Juneau or Seward: The fascinating nature of Alaska is only a few kilometers away.
Cala d’Or is located on the hilly slopes of a pine forest above the turquoise to deep blue sea. It is 60 kilometres from here to Palma. The resort in the southeast of Mallorca differs from other holiday resorts on the island: it is older and more beautiful. In summer it gets very crowded, but Cala d’Or (“Golden Bay”) was never suitable for excessive mass tourism. There are no high-rise hotel buildings. White, low buildings with a few floors under large pine trees dominate the picture in the old town centre. A flair of exclusivity lies over the marina on the narrow Cala Llonga in the west of the village.
Cala Gran in Cala D’or, Image: Anna Lurye / shutterstock
Cala d’Or owes its careful development to the artist and architect Josep Costa Ferrer from Ibiza. In the 1930s, he bought the piece of coast on which Cala d’Or is located today. He wanted to turn it into a holiday resort with Ibiza-style villas. He succeeded in doing so with the help of other founders. In the beginning, Cala d’Or was the preferred place for artists – for painters and architects. But Cala d’Or has grown over the years and with increasing tourism, on the edges and in the hinterland the buildings are no longer in style. Cala d’Or has almost 4200 inhabitants.
Market with flair in the nearby town of Santanyi
Cala d’Or belongs to the municipality of Santanyi – the nearby town that is also worth a visit. Every Wednesday and Saturday morning there is a market with a special flair! Mallorcans, residents and German holidaymakers meet here. From fruit and vegetables to underwear, handicrafts, souvenirs and homemade organic cheese, everything is offered at the stalls at the foot of the parish church. Cala d’Or’s neighbouring towns on the coast are also worth seeing. Porto Colom is located in the northeast, Porto Petro in the southwest – both are picturesque harbour towns with very good restaurants.
The inviting town centre is located on the bay of Cala Gran
If you come to Cala d’Or from the north, you will have passed the street villages of S’Alqueria Blanca, Calonge or S’Horta on the Ma-4012. From here it is only a few kilometers to the destination. They lead through fields and almond plantations to the right and left of the road. As early as January, the almond blossom begins early here and then envelops the country in a delicate, white-pink veil. At the entrance to the village there is a large roundabout, in the middle of which stands a modern metal sculpture. If you continue straight ahead on the tree-lined Avenida, you will reach the town centre and the main bay of the village, Cala Gran. This is the largest bay. A little above and behind it are hotels, holiday homes, apartments and countless shops.
Parents with children love the small Cala d’Or cove
Cross-country beach skiers will not get their money’s worth in Cala d’Or, as the coves with beautiful yellow-white, fine sand are all bordered by rocks. In Cala d’Or, visitors can climb on the rocks into the nearest bay, the eponymous Cala d’Or. But for that you have to be sure-footed and fit – and have the appropriate footwear. The Cala d’Or bay seems small and intimate, the water is usually calm, because it is protected by a headland in front of it. That’s why families with children like to use it for swimming, digging and snorkeling. Other coves are the already mentioned Cala Llonga, Cala Ferrera, Cala Esmeralda and Cala Serena. If you don’t want to visit it on foot, you can explore it with the small tourist train, which also goes to Porto Petro.
Stroll and dine in the marina
Marina of Cala d’Or, Image: Krzysztof Gach / shutterstock
In the high season, it gets crowded in the pedestrian zone in the evening. Cala d’Or has a restaurant mile on Av. Bélgica not far from Puntetes Square. The restaurants are geared towards international guests. Holidaymakers can compare German, Italian, Mexican, Spanish and Mallorcan cuisines here. But it is more romantic in the evening in the marina on both sides of Cala Llonga. On the bar terraces, guests sit close to the sea and enjoy the view of the sailboats bobbing on the water. On the west side of Cala Llonga, at the tip of the headland, lies the fortification Es Forti – a castle-like quadradic structure that once served as a defence against pirates. From May to October you can take a boat from Cala D’Or to Porto Colom and also to Cala Figuera . The latter village, an old fishing village, is impressive. It is located on a very long fjord with a small, natural harbour and colourful boathouses. It is fun to eat fish in a restaurant above the rocky bay, which may have been caught off Cala Figuera.
Nature reserve with many hiking trails
A special excursion takes holidaymakers to the Parc Natural Mondragó nature reserve, southwest of Cala d’Or with large parking lots. There is also an excursion bus from Cala d’Or to get there. The beautiful large rocky bays with turquoise shimmering water and sandy beaches of this park are completely undeveloped. They invite you to swim in crystal clear water. Well-paved, well-maintained and wooded hiking trails lead over the cliffs to viewpoints from which you can enjoy the view of the coastline. Here you can walk from one bay to the other, the most beautiful is probably S’Amarador on the edge of the pine forest. Cala Mondragó, on the other hand, is suitable for resting, as there is a beach kiosk here that offers drinks and small meals.
Hawaii is not one of the most popular backpacking destinations due to the relatively high costs. On the other hand, the island chain offers fantastic nature and the best conditions for unforgettable outdoor activities. For this reason, there are still many backpackers who decide to vacation in Hawaii. Basically, there is nothing wrong with it, but as with other destinations, there are a few things to consider, which is why we have compiled 5 tips for backpacking in Hawaii in this article.
Before you get started with Hawaii backpacking , you should first find out how the whole thing works. The best way to do this is to read testimonials. Experience reports will give you a good overview of how certain things work on a backpacking vacation in Hawaii. This can help you make the right decisions. In addition, you will be able to better assess whether a trip to Hawaii really suits you.
Don’t swim everywhere
The Botanical Garden in Kaneohe, Oahu, Image: Shane Myers Photography / shutterstock
Hawaii without swimming? Most backpackers probably can’t imagine that. However, you should be aware that you should not swim in all places. As with some other destinations in America , there are many bodies of water in Hawaii – for example, waterfall pools – that are “contaminated” with leptospira bacteria. These bacteria can cause the infectious disease leptospirosis – a potentially lethal disease. It is therefore better if you swim mainly on the beach.
Always take enough provisions with you
Hiking in the great outdoors of Hawaii sounds like a beautiful dream to many. This dream can be fulfilled, but you should never go on a hike without provisions. Be sure to take enough food and especially water with you. Deaths from dehydration are unfortunately not uncommon, which should not be ignored in view of the high temperatures in Hawaii. So always take enough provisions with you and be back before nightfall, as unknown paths in the dark are anything but pleasant.
Protect yourself from the sun
The high temperatures in Hawaii are without question a good thing and one of the main reasons why tourists from all over the world are drawn to the island paradise year after year. However, you should not neglect the risks of UV radiation , but always ensure sufficient protection. Sunscreen is an absolute must, otherwise it can lead to severe sunburns or even serious conditions such as skin cancer.
Don’t be too daring
In itself, Hawaii is not too dangerous, but you should not be too daring, because the unruly nature can be a big risk. For this reason, it is better to go on hikes or outdoor activities together with one or more other people. If an accident occurs, you can be sure that someone will call for help. If, on the other hand, you are alone, you will quickly find yourself in a hopeless situation. So don’t be too daring, but calculate potential risks – then nothing should stand in the way of an unforgettable backpacking tour.
When explorers in the United States set out west from the East Coast to discover new land, they were fascinated by the endless expanses between the two oceans. As the caravans of settlers moved through Nebraska, they were greeted not only by the Sand Hills, but also by the breathtaking scenery of the Rocky Mountains, water buffalo and, above all, a seemingly endless landscape. While the buffalo have almost completely disappeared over the years, the state is still closely connected to the Rocky Mountains. And even though Nebraska is not a classic state for tourists, some would even mockingly call it a fly-over state, there is a lot to discover for the curious eye where the settlers marched west.
The state of Nebraska is not necessarily known as a place for huge cities. Omaha is a very lively capital city worth visiting, but of course it can’t be compared to famous metropolises like New York, Los Angeles or Miami . The treasure of Nebraska is nature. And that doesn’t even mean the Rocky Mountains, but pretty much everything you can explore by car in the state. The vast steppes with their breathtaking rock formations are worth a visit, as are the reserves of the few remaining indigenous peoples, who show their visitors how people lived here long before the Europeans came to conquer the continent.
Top attractions outside the Rockies include Scotts Bluff National Monument and Chimney Rock National Historic Site. Both are huge rock formations that can be found in the middle of the steppe. Their special feature is not only given by their striking appearance, but also by the fact that they were an important symbol for the settlers on their way west. They were used to orient oneself on the way and some of the wagon tracks of the former settlers can still be found today – in addition, there are small museums and exhibitions that remember the life of the settlers on the way to the coasts in the west.
While you can follow the famous Oregon Trail of the settlers in these places, there is another popular road in Nebraska: Route 66. Here, important parts of the important road run through the United States and diners, museums and shops remind us of the historical history of the route. If you are traveling by car or motorcycle, you should definitely have taken the chance to have ridden on the route once.
Top things to see and do in Nebraska
The Lincoln skyline, Image: marekuliasz / shutterstock
One of the most important sights of Nebraska is the natural spectacles. This is a nice contrast to the visits to the often crowded cities of the United States, which can quickly trigger a sensory overload. Instead, you have the opportunity not only to see the aforementioned National Monuments and the Rocky Mountains, but also to follow in the footsteps of the settlers who once discovered the country with excursions. Whether on horseback or with a tour in the car – a journey through the steppes of Nebraska, to the lakes and rivers of the state, gives a feeling of the incredible vastness that people must have experienced when discovering the USA .
Whether you opt for the real experience on the Oregon Trail or eat a stew to your liking at Buffalo Bill’s house, the options for activities and excursions are numerous in Nebraska, and they are always connected to nature and the state’s historical history. It is recommended that you take a rental car in Omaha or Lincoln for the duration. The distances in the state should not be underestimated and it can happen that you drive for several hours through almost deserted areas until you arrive at the next sight.
Omaha and Lincoln as a center for one’s own planning
With Omaha and the state capital Lincoln, there are two cities that are particularly interesting for a visit. While Lincoln is the political and administrative center of Nebraska, one’s own life takes place primarily in Omaha. The city of Omaha has a quite impressive skyline for its small size and is home to some of the most important sights for visiting the state, especially with the famous zoo and some museums. But beyond that, it is above all an experience for the other side of Nebraska. The restaurants and diners, the theaters and cinemas, all of this conveys a bit of the attitude to life in the center of the USA. The steaks are huge, the cars as well and the people here couldn’t be typically American. It can therefore be worthwhile to spend a few days in the cities after a trip through the special nature and let this other side of the USA work its magic on you before you make your way to the next destination in the USA.
Escaping everyday life, that’s what each of us wishes for sometimes. The options are already diverse and in many cases cost-effective. If you find the local golf course too monotonous on your own holiday, you can try your luck on golf trips. This varied experience is suitable for players of all levels, which guarantees fun and a certain learning effect. This makes golf trips the perfect change for your holiday without having to do without the beach and a hotel. For this reason, we have summarized the advantages and reasons for a golf trip for you.
Many destinations and facilities, thanks to the wide choice when booking
The idea of golf trips is not new, which is why many offers can already be found in travel agencies and on the Internet. Nevertheless, it is worthwhile to compare the advantages of these trips with classic holidays. In this way, it quickly becomes clear what makes golf trips so extraordinary and attractive for golfers. If you are an athlete who feels like playing golf on your holiday, you are faced with a big task in simple hotel complexes. It is not uncommon for the nearest courses to be far away and there is no concrete program for golfers and athletes of other sports.
It’s different with golf trips, where special offers are already waiting for you when booking. Starting with the green fee already paid, to the game time reservation: staying in a sports-friendly hotel has various advantages. Travel providers with experience in the industry are clearly ahead here: through special prices and offers, golf trips to Mallorca, Portugal or Turkey are offered at low prices. Planning a vacation around the sport has thus become the standard for many to be able to play the golf courses of this world.
Licence to play on holiday: this is how the programme works
Relax and work on your handicap while golfing on holiday, Image: Supermop / shutterstock
Since golf trips are not only reserved for professionals, more and more beginners and casual players are also enthusiastic about this type of holiday. Hotel complexes with a direct focus on golf trips are usually located close to the course and have their own trainers who can accompany you to the course license and beyond. Especially for partners and children, this is an ideal opportunity to develop their own skills in a relaxed and at the same time intensive training environment or to start with the sport. The golf license can be achieved in as little as seven days of vacation, which various hotels advertise on golf trips. Collaborations with surrounding golf courses have been established so that the green fee is not incurred for every training session.
Depending on the destination, players can obtain the course license throughout the year, which is thanks to particularly warm holiday regions. The favorable location of the golf courses accompanies you to the new level even out of season, with which you can start at the beginning of the season after your vacation. This means that golf trips differ only partially from conventional holidays: the trip to the warmth, however, has a sporting background. If you want to go to the golf resorts of this world alone or with your family, you should keep an eye on the offers of tour operators.
The perfect combination – with relaxation and sport
A golf trip is not always associated with effort. While many hours a day can be invested in sports, the relaxed time-outs are a welcome change. Whether on the beach or pool, swimming and relaxing is not neglected on almost any golf holiday. This makes destinations with both aspects ideal for families in which at least one member wants to focus on the sport. The enthusiasm can quickly rub off, which also offers children the opportunity to immerse themselves in the sport with a coach.
If you want a little more of the beach in good weather, golf trips are the optimally flexible choice. Here, playtime reservations for the following day allow the journey to and from the golf course to be comfortably accommodated in the quiet everyday holiday routine. If, on the other hand, you want to have more green than sand under your feet, you will not be disappointed either: this is due to the almost continuous offer of training sessions, games and the hotel’s own tournaments. At every level of player, first-class experience can be gained on sometimes large golf courses.
Our conclusion: Golf trips for more variety in everyday holiday life
The advantages of golf trips are varied and at the same time individual for each of us. Nevertheless, playing on foreign courses is an experience that should not be missed, especially abroad. While Germany, Austria and Switzerland can also be destinations for golf trips, it is above all the warm regions in the cold season that are a charming option. Booked on site or in advance, a golf trip can be the long-awaited change for sports-loving holidaymakers. If you are not yet sure, you can find out more about the topic from the usual tour operators.
Politically, Macau, formerly a Portuguese colony, is a special administrative region of the People’s Republic of China and there is indeed a lot special in the urban area. The city is known for its lush casino worlds, which are oriented towards Las Vegas and can now hold a candle to the desert city in the USA. UNESCO has already listed Macau as a World Heritage Site. A Macau vacation is worthwhile for players who do not want to miss out on their casino experience. There is a lot to see and experience on a Macau vacation. The various Macau sights offer a successful contrast to the casino world and an all-round successful holiday can be planned.
There are quite a few extraordinarily beautiful and interesting casinos in Macau. The design in particular is often decisive for a casino to be able to occupy a very special position. Here, tourists can be surprised at the architectural features that await them in Macau. If you want to visit Macau and get in the mood a little, a visit to the online casino is ideal to take advantage of attractive bonuses and promotions. You can still play free slot games in Macau as a demo version in an online casino.
The Venetian in Macau
True to its name, the hotel creates an atmosphere that is not only reminiscent of St. Mark’s Square in Venice , but almost replicates it. Nobody in Macau would really expect that and it seems impressive right from the start. The casino is divided into four themed areas: Golden Fish, Imperial House, Red Dragon, and Phoenix. It possesses 6000 slot machines and 800 gaming tables, making it an enormous place to gamble. It is certainly one of the most beautiful Macau casinos and has a classy atmosphere that is reminiscent of classic casino movies. The dress code is correspondingly less casual.
Sands Macau
Sands Macau is one of Macau’s state-of-the-art casinos, which already promote a shiny, futuristic look with their architecture. The casino is linked to its big brother, the Sands in Las Vegas, and has a modern approach to casino life on the inside. In addition to recreational players, Sands Macau has created dedicated areas for VIP and premium players, so everyone can focus on their goal and do so in a very private atmosphere. The dress code is upscale and the ambience is very classy, which creates a special feeling that will seize every Macau vacationer.
Wynn Macau
At Wynn Resort, there is luxury for guests in every area. The hotel and casino have 7000 employees who dedicately take care of the guests and their holidays. The casino is laid out over two floors and has 1190 slot machines and 390 gaming tables. A dedicated poker room lets poker players be among themselves if they wish. The dress code is adapted to the luxury hotel and is described as smart business, so an evening at the Wynn Casino is a special experience that no one will soon forget. Within the framework of Macau China Casinos, the Wynn Macau is one of two foreign companies that have been allowed to obtain a license.
Historic buildings worth visiting in Macau
The visitor can find many historic buildings in Macau among the sights of Macau , which still point back to the old Portuguese colonial period. During this period, grandiose buildings were created, which today give the Far East Asian city a southern European touch. The most important buildings are:
• Camões Grotto
• Dom Pedro V Theatre
• Fortaleza do Monte
• Guia Fortress
• The Holy House of Grace
• The Leal Senado building
• The Lou Kau Mansion
• Macau Central Post Office
The ruins of St. Paul
Actually, between 1602 and 1640, a church was built in Macau by Jesuit priests, which was dedicated to the holy apostle Paul. The church has not stood the test of time, but the front of the church still stands as a ruin and has been delighting tourists on their Macau China vacation for decades. The ruins are accessible today and are a unique sign of time from the immediate history of the city, in which the spirit of the past is awakened.
The Luís de Camões Garden
The garden is centrally located in the city and is actually the largest park Macau owns. Here the friendship between Portugal and Macau is celebrated and so the tourist opens up an incredibly beautiful piece of nature in the middle of the city. It is named after Portugal’s greatest poet, Luís de Camões, who once had to go into exile in Macau for two years and thus established a connection to this part of the world.
The Holy House of Grace
As a Christian element, the Holy House of Grace was built by the Portuguese and administered by the church as a hospital and nursing home. Over time, it has had many functions and has also played an important role in the city’s history. In part, the house functioned as a bank or casino with a very popular lottery. In any case, the connection to today’s gambling center is striking.
Which museums must be visited in Macau?
A holiday in Macau would not be complete without visiting one or the other of the numerous and very well-positioned museums. Macau is known for its large number of museums, which can contribute to all kinds of areas of life and history of the region. Here you can choose at will which museums best fit into the area of interest of each individual.
The Grand Prix Museum
The Venetian in Macau, Image: jeafish Ping / shutterstockGrand Prix Museum in Macau, Image: KeongDaGreat / shutterstock
The Grand Prix Museum in Macau is a reminder of the race days in Macau, when the Formula 1 cars raced over the tar here. An original Ayrton Senna race car is on display and simulators make the museum a racing experience where every visitor can feel like a driver in the cockpit. A must for Formula 1 fans, an entertaining experience for ordinary tourists.
The Museum of Gifts
When Macau became a special administrative region, there was a ceremony in the city where Chinese regions wished the city luck and presented gifts representing each province. The museum was built on the site of the ceremony, which now deals with the culture and history of Macau within the framework of this special status. The gifts and other contemporary items are exhibited for visitors. Admission to the museum is free.
The Macau Museum of Art
This museum is all about art in every form. The museum, which was only established in 1999, collects all areas of art from Macau and other regions in order to further promote the artistic life of the city and create awareness of the enjoyment of art. Artists and experts are regularly invited to the museum to create a living museum through lectures and other events.
So much to see in Macau
Luís de Camões Garden, Image: unununius photo / shutterstock
The variety of sights in Macau is enormous and it is usually not enough for a few days to see everything that is worth seeing. It is highly advisable to make a plan before the trip of which sights to see and what the greatest interest or topic of the trip should be, so that an appropriate route can be planned. Especially the numerous casinos such as The Venetian or the MGM Macau are a tourist magnet, but the historic buildings or the parks of the city are also inspiring. Public squares such as Lotus Square are a central meeting point and starting point for tourist trails in the city. Religious places, theme parks and other points of the city complete the experience.
Result
In the end, it all depends on what the tourist wants on his trip, because Macau can offer almost everything. This is where an individual route can help, which prevents it from becoming a one-sided experience with only museums or only casinos. Variety will lead to a dream holiday in Macau that will make every visitor return to the city.
In the summer of 2021, a family of four from North Rhine-Westphalia set off in a motorhome to experience an adventure of unexpected proportions. Coming from a fast-paced and often cold interpersonal world, they went in search of a place of warmth and contentment. The adventurers found what they were looking for in a region from which one would least have expected these qualities.
Eleven years ago, “Der Spiegel” reported on a blatant connection between serious mental health problems and prosperity. For example, in countries with a high average income, there is a significantly higher percentage of people with depression than in developing countries. Among those affected is Deborah Furin from the Oberbergischer Kreis – wife and mother of two children. She also learned about this scientific finding and, together with her husband Max, her 5-year-old son Noah and her 11-year-old daughter Isabella, set out to immerse herself in a socially incomparable world. Together with their two dogs, the Furins went on a two-month adventure in a 6-meter-long camper, which they named “Constantin”, to the second poorest country in Europe – Albania.
The approximately 2,000-kilometer journey alone took two weeks, as the cosmopolitan family wanted to gather impressions on the way. On the “Adriatic Magistrale” – one of the most beautiful but also most dangerous coastal roads in the world – the Furins went through the countries of Croatia, Bosnia-Herzegovina and Montenegro to Albania. The parents Deborah and Max deliberately did not want to spend a classic holiday. It was supposed to be a journey of discovery through the middle of the everyday life of another society.
Priceless experiences
The family spent the following months in the form of wild camping. Completely self-sufficient, people lived in a motorhome in various places in the country. The extraordinarily poor infrastructure was particularly striking. In general, roads and buildings are in a disastrous condition, water from the tap is only available in a certain time window on a day. In order to make their own existence possible for the next week, the residents usually have to do hard physical work every day. One would think that depression, dissatisfaction and omnipresent egoism would be the order of the day without exception due to the situation. The opposite is the case and the Furin family experienced this circumstance firsthand. “I have never experienced such a degree of warmth, empathy and generosity,” said astrophotographer Deborah in an interview.
“We wanted to get a haircut in Albania and went to a hairdresser. Since we were making a documentary about our trip and wanted to include this scene as well, we asked if it would be possible to film. The hairdresser felt this as a great appreciation and subsequently did not charge a single cent for his service.” Such situations were not an exception, but everyday life. However, the North Rhine-Westphalians define another encounter as the highlight of the trip: “One afternoon we were picking a handful of figs when a man beckoned us to him. At the beginning, there was a great fear that we would have made ourselves unpopular with him with this action, but that was not the case. We got into conversation with the man and after a while he invited him to his family’s home for a coffee. After some time, we were actually offered if we ‘strangers’ would like to stay with them. Since this is the greatest possible gesture of appreciation you can get, we agreed. Theoretically, we could have been robbed. After all, our equipment could be made into good money by local standards. But this danger and the thought of it were never in the room. It was simply an act of pure humanity.”
Deborah and Max Furin are overwhelmed by the inhabitants of Albania: “Our expectations were regularly exceeded. For us, the tourist rejection of this country is absolutely incomprehensible. Albania should not be seen and traveled with the eyes, but with the heart.” To this day, the young family draws on these experiences and especially for the children, the two months were of enormous importance in terms of personality development.
Own documentary film about the trip
The Furins captured their extraordinary adventure on cameras in order to then produce a documentary film. This will be released on February 27 with the name “Lumturi – In Search of True Wealth” in feature length on her YouTube channel “Constantins Diary”. Deborah thus fulfills a lifelong dream. She and her husband deliberately chose a free platform for the release of the film, as they want to make their documentary accessible to everyone – regardless of the level of income. Nevertheless, the Furin family would be very happy about a voluntary donation due to the large financial outlay. In any case, the documentary film is worth watching. After all, it offers an excellent opportunity to significantly broaden one’s own horizons.
Breathtaking nature, beautiful beaches and paradisiacal sights: this is Phu Quoc. Vietnam’s largest island in the middle of the Gulf of Thailand is still a real insider tip for many holidaymakers from all over the world. More and more tourists are now discovering the advantages of this paradisiacal island for themselves, also due to the very good infrastructure. Phu Quoc has an international airport that is served daily by planes from all over the world. There are also several ports on the island. These can be approached by cruise ships as well as private boats.
A large part of the tourists are drawn to the dream beaches of the island. With their white sand, crystal clear water and shady palm trees, they are among the most beautiful beaches in Southeast Asia. Here you feel like you are in the middle of paradise. The absolute number one of the beaches on the popular island is Bai Truong at the gates of the island’s capital Duong Dong. The beach, also known as “Long Beach” by Western tourists, stretches over 20 kilometers along the west coast. Beach holidaymakers get their money’s worth here, as do water sports enthusiasts. Especially on the northern section of the beach, thousands of tourists from all over the world cavort, especially in the European winter months.
In recent years, numerous large beach resorts with a comprehensive range of water sports have also been built here. Bai Truong is also famous outside the Vietnamese borders for its clean water, because no motorboats are allowed here. In the meantime, the southern section of the beach is also being developed more and more and discovered by tourists. If you like it quieter on the beach, the much smaller Bai Ong Lang in the south of the island’s capital is the right place for you. Due to the small sheltered bays, the beach is especially popular with couples. Sao Beach is also one of the most popular beaches on the island, with its white sand and gently sloping water into the sea. In addition to the numerous water sports such as jet skiing or parasailing, there are also numerous restaurants and hotels around the beach.
Duong Dong: The lively island capital
Market in Duong Dong, Image: Lars Ove Jonsson / shutterstock
The capital of Phu Quoc is the city of Duong Dong. The city of 60,000 inhabitants is known and loved by tourists and locals as extremely lively. In the traditional Vietnamese small town, there is always a lively market hustle and bustle and Asian flair. Directly on the beach is the Dinh Cau temple, which you should definitely see when visiting the city. It is not only one of the most popular photo motifs on the island, but is also extremely worth seeing and experiencing. From the terrace of the temple you have a great overview of the beach and the fishing port. The port of Duong Dong is also a popular starting point for small and large island tours. Near the port is also the Duong Dong Market. The rest of the island also has some spectacular sights to offer. In the south of the island, for example, you should not miss the Hon Thom cable car. With a length of almost eight kilometres, it is one of the longest cable cars in the world and extends to the offshore island of Hon Thom. On the island there is a large water park, a beautiful sandy beach and several cozy cafes and restaurants.
Species-rich flora and fauna
The island of Phu Quoc is also characterized by its species-rich flora and fauna. Nature lovers get their money’s worth, especially in the north of the island in the Phu Quoc Nature Park. The national park, which covers more than 30,000 hectares, is one of the most beautiful national parks in Asia. Almost 500 different plant species can be found here. Off the coast there are also beautiful coral reefs and a wide variety of colors. The wildlife on the island also has almost 50 different and above all rare mammal species – including small-clawed otters, dwarf gloris and silver langurs. The coasts in the south are also home to more than 120 different species of fish. The island can be explored on your own or as part of a guided tour by a trained guide. Among other things, the island still has some mountains, grottos and caves.
Best time to visit Phu Qouc: November to March
The weather on the popular Vietnamese island is determined by the tropical climate with hot temperatures and high humidity. From November to March, temperatures are around 30 degrees Celsius. Precipitation is rarely to be expected during this time. May to October is the rainy season, during which continuous and extensive rainfall is to be expected
