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.

Eight presidents are from Virginia

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

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

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 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

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.

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.

Read testimonials

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

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.

Between Route 66 and natural spectacle

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

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.

Louisiana has many faces and is crisscrossed by a unique swamp landscape. People love the sounds of blues and jazz, the food is spicy and the Mississippi ends its 4000-kilometer journey through the USA here. The cities are full of music and the beaches are deserted even in summer. But that’s not all Louisiana has to offer.

New Orleans: Hot rhythms in front of a nostalgic backdrop

Jazz was invented in New Orleans and it is still omnipresent today. Life is casual and everyone swings their hips to the hot music. The French Quarter is the heart of the city. Nowhere else are they cocktails more high-proof and the food spicier. In the evening, it’s teeming with street musicians, and then the city turns into an open-air dance floor. Here, the cultures of the immigrants merge harmoniously: behind the historic facades of the houses are small shops with a fascinating range of goods. Art lovers from all over America look for treasures here and you can get a real bargain in the second-hand shops. Each district of the city is designed differently and lively masterpieces of architecture are lined up next to each other. Visitors need many days to discover New Orleans. The city never gets boring.

The Mississippi is the lifeline

Mark Twain made the Mississippi famous with the adventures of Tom Sawyer and Huckleberry Finn. But hardly anyone knows that Mark Twain is only the pseudonym of the writer Samuel Langhorne Clemens. In Louisiana, Mark Twain means nothing more than “two threads deep” and is a warning call from Mississippi ship pilots. The river has always remained adventurous. Sometimes it shows its peaceful side and then the paddle steamers chug past and revive the old Southern history. It can also flow at full speed towards the delta and then it carries debris and debris that it has collected on its long journey through the USA . The locals say that the river is united like man and woman. At the top he shows himself feminine with his pretty paddle steamers and under the surface of the water he becomes hard as a man with the aggressive alligators and the dangerous shallows.

The spicy cuisine of the southern states

Louisiana is also a culinary melting pot. African, Caribbean and European cuisine reinvents itself here and enriches each other. The chefs are more creative and always have new ideas. Creole specialties have the French sophistication and Mexican spiciness. The menus are dominated by crawfish étouffée, spiced lobster meat in a spicy sauce served with rice. Visitors should definitely try gumbo at various restaurants. There are over 1000 variants of this stew, the basic ingredients of which are meat and shellfish. It gets even more adventurous when you order jambalaya. The basis of the pot dish consists of rice and the cook fills up with all the ingredients that the kitchen has to offer. In Louisiana, they love it hot and spicy. All dishes are generally sharper than in other parts of the country. Nevertheless, you can still find countless varieties of hot sauces on restaurant tables. Some restaurants only have a few basic dishes, as the focus is on the range of sauces.

The charm of the southern states

White columned houses, surrounded by tall oaks, still dominate the image of Louisiana. Some areas revive the setting of Gone with the Wind and the mighty mansions of the plantation owners are still full of sad memories. Louisiana is a typical southern state, and yet it is very different from all the others. The country is enchanted with its own parishes in which its own language is spoken and which cultivate their own culture. These communities were founded by the Cajuns and have been preserved for centuries. Louisiana is full of shrill types, but they are deeply religious. Parts of the state belong to the so-called Bible Belt. In these areas, the Sunday service is the most important event of the week. It doesn’t matter whether you are a Baptist or a Protestant. The church services are happier than here and the gospel music makes some visitors fall into ecstasy. A trip through Louisiana remains an unforgettable experience if you get involved with the people and face the challenges.

Swampy and boozy Louisiana

Where the fresh water of the Mississippi unites with the sea water from the Gulf of Mexico, it becomes swampy. An ideal place for snakes, which have their breeding grounds here. Migratory birds like to stop at the delta and shrimps thrive in the muddy mud. The swamps of Louisiana are a paradise for animals. To people, they seem melancholic, mystical and dangerous. The inhabitants of Louisiana have learned to live with the swamps. They know that dangerous alligators lurk behind the enchanting strips of yew, cypress and reed grass. Nevertheless, the fishermen go out at full moon, because the bright light lures the prey to the surface. In the evening, the fish ends up on the grill. Then the violins sound, the long skirts of the women are swung and the men invite you to square dance. Guests are welcome everywhere and there is a lot of partying in Louisiana. A highlight is Madi Gras, the famous carnival of New Orleans. In August, people meet for White Linen Night. People wear only white cotton clothing and take part in numerous art events. At Hogs for the Cause, the largest barbecue in the USA is served in New Orleans