All about travel

Catania – the pearl of Sicily

Europe
Italy

PatrickJullien

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30. May 2025

Catania, so the story goes, is a pearl forged from water and fire. For more than two and a half millennia, the metropolis has flourished on the white beaches of the Ionian Sea.

The “city under the mountain”, which is what the word Catania actually means, is located at the foot of Mount Etna, the largest volcano on our continent. With its more than 300,000 inhabitants, it is the second largest city in Sicily in Italy after Palermo. It is also the capital of the metropolitan city of the same name. The metropolis is one of the late Baroque towns of the Val di Noto, which have been declared a World Heritage Site by UNSECO.

Piazza del Duomo Catania — Santa Agatha at Piazza del Duomo, Image: Sergey Kelin / shutterstock

The city is a highly interesting and attractive destination for several reasons. Both their rich history and their intercultural diversity make it possible to experience a piece of ancient identity. The baroque buildings, the colourful and noisy markets and the numerous restaurants invite you to stroll through the city and take a walk. The cheap local transport also allows you to explore the region around the city. Catania is also an excellent seaside resort due to its immediate proximity to the coast. Below are some of the biggest highlights and sights in and around Catania.

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Churches, cathedrals and monasteries in Catania

The Elephant Fountain, Image: Giuseppe Piazzese / shutterstock

Catania is home to a large number of impressive churches, cathedrals and monasteries. Among other things, the church of San Benedetto, the monastery of San Nicola and the Collegiata stand out.

Perhaps the most imposing cathedral, however, is the Cathedral of Sant’Agata. It is the cathedral of the Archdiocese of Catania and is located on the east side of Piazza Duomo. It was dedicated to St. Agatha, the patron saint of the city. The architecture of the church is characterized by a longitudinal building with a triple apse and transverse building.

Catania Skyline — Image: NAPA / shutterstock

In the course of restoration work, the apses were stripped of their Baroque decoration and once again show the original Norman construction of the building. However, its baroque west façade has been preserved. This was designed by Giovanni Battista Vaccarini. The interior of the church is divided into three naves with the help of pillars. The beautiful main altar is located in the awe-inspiring central apse. In the two side apses there is the Chapel of the Blessed Sacrament and the Chapel of St. Aghata, where her relics are also kept.

Palazzi

Piazza Duomo — Image: trabantos / shutterstock

Another architectural feature of the city is its numerous and diverse pallazi. The Palazzo degli Elefanti, the Palazzo Valle, the Palazzo di Giustizia and the Palazzo Biscari are particularly noteworthy.

The latter is the most important palazzo in Catania. It was built at the end of the 17th century, after Catania had been almost completely destroyed by an earthquake in 1693. Almost a century later, none other than Johann Wolfgang Goethe visited the palace.

Beaches in the Catania region

Ancient Theatres of Taormina — The Ancient Theatre of Taormina, Image: K. Roy Zerloch / shutterstock

The region around Catania is home to numerous beaches of various colors, all of which are very easy to reach by public transport and offer bathing fun for every taste. Three of them will be presented here.

La Playa is the largest and longest beach in Catania with its 18 km. It is particularly popular for its golden and fine sand, as well as the high density of beach bars and services. It also offers a breathtaking view of Mount Etna. It can be reached from the city in 15 minutes. The shallow waters and the numerous tourist attractions make the beach ideal for visits with small children.

Riviera dei Ciclopi is a smaller beach located near Aci Trezza. It represents one of the most fascinating coastal areas of Catania. In addition to the large, rounded pebbles, its trademark is the free-standing, black rocks and the island of Lachea, which rise out of the sea here. The crystal clear water is particularly suitable for snorkelers.

The coast of Paiola is particularly characterized by its black beaches, which indicate the volcanic geology of Sicily. Here you can spend a few hours by the sea in peace, because the coast stretches along agricultural land, which means that there is comparatively little traffic and tourist hustle and bustle. In addition, the rich Mediterranean vegetation provides a natural ambience here.

Mount Etna

The Roman Theatre of Catania (1), Image: Romas_Photo / shutterstock

If you are on holiday in Catania, you should plan at least one day for excursions to Mount Etna! The volcano is excellently developed and easily accessible from the city by bus, taxi or private car. Depending on whether you want to climb the summit or visit one of the countless side craters of Etna, there are different tours. Here you will be guided safely and reliably by a knowledgeable guide through the rugged landscape of Europe’s highest volcano.

Let’s go – Let’s go to Catania

Roman Theatre Catania — The Roman Theatre of Catania (2), Image: Leonid Andronov / shutterstock

Catania is a holiday destination for everyone! It is well connected by land, air and sea. The city itself has a lot to offer for all tastes: those interested in art, culture and architecture get their money’s worth here, as do nature lovers or bathing enthusiasts! An excellent culinary offer and an exciting city life round off the holiday experience in a memorable way.

Travel in Costa Rica

America

PatrickJullien

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30. May 2025

0

South and Central America are increasingly becoming the focus of tourism around the world. Costa Rica is becoming increasingly popular: In 2017, Costa Rica recorded over three million tourists throughout the country.

It is not for nothing that the growth rates in this area are constantly in the upper range. But what is there to visit in Costa Rica, which regions are particularly attractive and what is the best time of year?

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General, weather and temperatures in Costa Rica

Rio Celeste Waterfall, Image: William Berry / shutterstock

Although Costa Rica does not have the geographical area of Brazil, Argentina or Chile, the country still has a lot to offer with the area of Lower Saxony.

The weather there is tropical and therefore never really cold like in Europe. The high humidity contributes to the fact that flora and fauna thrive at a breathtaking pace. In the months of May to October, the majority of the precipitation of the whole year falls, so holidaymakers should pay attention to waterproof clothing and include the rain on excursions.

Costa Rica had a very species-rich and colorful flora and fauna, which stretched from the beaches of the Caribbean to the mountains and into the tropical rainforest. A little anecdote: The Spanish navigator and explorer Christopher Columbus already recognized the treasure that the country held and called the coast where he arrived “rich coast”. In Spanish, it means Costa Rica, so the name speaks volumes.

Places of interest in Costa Rica

Arenal Volcano, Costa Rica — The Arenal Volcano, Image: Parkol / shutterstock

Nature is probably the largest and most fascinating monument that can be visited here. The diversity of geography and landscape alone is enough to fill entire weeks with experiences. Below we present 4 particularly charming places that you can take with you on your trip through Costa Rica.

1. The Tortuguero National Park

Snorkeling Costa Rica — Snorkeling on Tortuga, Image: Joan Vendrell / shutterstock

This unusual piece of nature is located directly on the coast towards the Caribbean Sea and cannot be reached via highways. Only visitors by plane or ship can visit the park, and intensive attention is paid to the protection of its local flora and fauna.

One of the most famous species in Tortuguero Park are turtles, which also gave part of its name to the facility; “la tortuga” is the turtle in Spanish. During the mating season and the following egg-laying, visitors to Tortuguero can watch the animals on the beach, a spectacle that is only visible in a few places.

Another popular aspect of the park is extensive excursions by boat or on foot in the jungle. Here you can observe the diverse, colorful and exotic flora, with a bit of luck you can even see caimans, various species of monkeys, colorful macaws or anacondas.

2. The Puerto Viejo region

Ballena Bay, Image: Tami Freed / shutterstock

This area is also located on the paradisiacal beach of the Caribbean coast and is traditionally a melting pot of different nations. Immigrants from Jamaica, Europe and other South American countries settled here, bringing their culture, gastronomy and music with them.

The result today is many small cafes, taverns, bars and squares where festivals and music events take place and attract people from all over the region. Reggae fans in particular get their money’s worth here. Another attractive point are the numerous beaches, some of which are untouched and outside the tourist influx.

The Caribbean Sea is particularly popular with snorkelers, divers and avid swimmers, as it is home to many exotic fish and other marine animals. Among other things, dives and supervised snorkeling trips to small reefs or sunken ships are offered. Here you can admire the colorful and, in the best case, intact underwater world of Costa Rica, in which rays, clownfish, moray eels, small sharks and other marine animals cavort.

3. The Manuel Antonio region

Landscape Costa Rica — Image: SeSm / shutterstock

Here you are on the Pacific side of Costa Rica, the province includes spacious white sandy beaches and a national park, the Parque de Manuel Antonio.

The beaches are particularly popular with European and US tourists, as the water here is turquoise and clear and the coast slopes gently into the sea. The directly adjacent rainforest provides the basis for the livelihood of the local population. Many of the Ticos (as Costa Ricans are colloquially called) live from guided tours of the country, from their own restaurants or from renting authentic accommodation to visitors.

A particularly large number of sloths and tapirs live here, these animals are cute and have already become accustomed to humans through the many visitors. This may give you the chance to get up close and personal with one of the animals and get a special snapshot!

4. The capital San José

National Theatre Costa Rica — The National Theatre in San José, Image: Mihai-Bogdan Lazar / shutterstock

San José is the largest in Costa Rica and at the same time the economic and political center. Surrounded by volcanoes and the Talamanca mountain range, the surrounding area offers a fascinating view of the metropolis, which is home to over 300,000 people. Popular attractions are the central square Plaza de la Cultura, where life flourishes especially in the evening, the colonial-style Melico Salazar theatre or the municipal park Parque Central. There, many of the residents take a break and enjoy the silence in the midst of green plants and colorful hibiscus bushes.

Costa Rica undoubtedly has tremendous riches in terms of tourist destinations and local nature. There are many travel guides that deepen special topics such as dives or jungle tours and give interesting tips. Especially outside the rainy season, a round trip through the Central American country is particularly recommended, as all places can then be visited with dry feet. Vamos a Costa Rica!

Toronto – The hippest city in Canada

PatrickJullien

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30. May 2025

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Toronto, the largest city in Canada with its 2.6 million inhabitants, is one of the most popular destinations in the country. Located directly on Lake Ontario and only 100 kilometers north of the US border, this city has numerous sights, highlights and experiences to offer its visitors. Toronto International Airport is the largest in the country and can be reached from Germany with a direct flight in about 8 hours.

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The sights of Toronto

CN Tower

The CN Tower is one of Toronto’s most famous sights, which is hardly surprising, as it stands out from the rest of the city skyline with its 533 meters in height. The Canada National Tower was built in the 1970s and held the title of the tallest building in the world for some time.

The view from the tower’s panoramic deck is breathtaking and allows visitors to see as far as the United States on a clear day. For particularly brave guests, there is also a glass floor through which you can look down between your feet. The so-called Edge Walk, in which the participants run along the edge of the tower, secured by belts, promises a thrill in a class of its own. The Edge Walk is definitely an experience that you won’t forget in a hurry.

Lake Ontario

The city of Toronto is located right on the shores of Lake Ontario, so no visit to the city would be complete without a stroll along the lakefront. Lake Ontario is the smallest of the Great Lakes in terms of area and is connected to the Atlantic Ocean by the gigantic St. Lawrence River. In winter, the lake often freezes over, in summer it is a heat reservoir and enables the cultivation of fruit and wine in the region. It also supplies the city with fresh water and is used for numerous water sports. A panoramic cruise on Lake Ontario also gives you a great view of Toronto’s skyline.

Distillery District

Arguably Toronto’s most photogenic neighborhood, the Distillery District is home to countless bars, pubs, restaurants, and trendy shops. By the way, the district got its name from the many distilleries that used to be located here and supplied the entire city with alcohol. In addition to a handful of distilleries, there are numerous breweries here today, which produce, among other things, the well-known Mill Street organic beer. Art objects, graffiti images and light installations are displayed throughout the Distillery District, making a walk through the district a true discovery tour.

Royal Ontario Museum

The Royal Ontario Museum, which is often abbreviated just as Rome , is one of the largest museums in all of North America and is a guaranteed eye-catcher due to its striking architecture. The museum first opened in 1914 and contains an ever-growing collection of exhibits that bring visitors closer to the history, nature and culture of Canada. The museum attaches great importance to being family-friendly and interactive and is therefore also a good destination for travelers with children. In addition to dinosaur models, the 6 million exhibits include a considerable collection of rocks and numerous Indian relics. The best overview of the almost overwhelming museum is offered by a guided tour.

Casa Loma

Casa Loma is a mansion located at the north end of Spadina Avenue, reminiscent of a European castle from the Middle Ages. The building was built from 1911 to 1914 on behalf of the Canadian industrialist Sir Henry Pellatt and was the largest private residence in North America after its completion. Due to economic upheavals, the Pellatts had to sell the house after the First World War, and after a luxury hotel and the Canadian military were housed in the mansion in the meantime, it is now a popular destination for visitors to the city. The building is surrounded by a palace park-like garden and a museum awaits visitors inside.

Destinations around Toronto

The surrounding area of Toronto also has some highlights in store for its visitors and so it is definitely recommended to leave the city limits for a longer stay.

Toronto Islands

The Toronto Islands are a group of islands in Lake Ontario off the coast of the city, which is completely closed to motorized traffic and thus offers a wonderful retreat and recreation area. You can reach the islands by ferries and water taxis, which depart from the mainland side at the harbour front and then drive to the islands.

The Toronto Islands are home to numerous beaches and hiking trails, and the area has long been an important recreational area for the city’s residents. The islands are also of great importance for nature, as many birds retreat here to breed. The Toronto Islands is also home to the oldest building in the city, the Gibraltar Point Lighthouse, which dates back to 1832.

Niagarafälle – Niagara Falls

About an hour and a half drive from Toronto, right on the U.S. border, are the world-famous Niagara Falls. Here the Niagara River, which connects Lake Erie with Lake Ontario, falls very impressively over a series of waterfalls. With over 18 million visitors, the Niagara Falls region is one of the most popular destinations in all of North America. The small town of Niagara Falls, through which the Canadian part of the falls is accessible, seems like a smaller version of Las Vegas and has numerous casinos and hotels.

New Delhi: A metropolis full of contrasts

Asia
India

PatrickJullien

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30. May 2025

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New Delhi: A metropolis full of contrasts

New Delhi is currently the third largest city in the world with more than 27 million inhabitants. It is located in the north of India, less than 500 kilometers from the Himalayan mountains. India’s capital inspires tourists with its many contrasts. Western and typical Indian lifestyle, rich and poor as well as old and new are close together here.

Famous Sights in New Delhi

Red Fort

To the east of the old town is the Red Fort fortress and palace complex. It was built in the 17th century by order of the then Mughal emperor Shah Jahan. This is best known for the construction of the famous Taj Mahal. Since 2007, the red sandstone fort has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Qutub Minar

Another UNESCO World Heritage Site in New Delhi is the 72-metre-high Victory and Watchtower Qutub Minar. It was built in the 13th century and is located on the Qutub complex site. The first Muslim mosque in India was also built there, the ruins of which can still be visited today.

Connaught Place

The center of the city is Connaught Place. On the circular streets, one of India’s largest trading centers is located in old colonial buildings. The countless shops, restaurants and cafes are popular with both tourists and locals.

India Gate and Presidential Palace

A historically important landmark is the India Gate. Among other things, the names of the almost 100,000 Indian and British war dead from the First World War are engraved in this triumphal arch. From there, the long boulevard Rajpath leads to Rashtrapati Bhavan, the official residence of the Indian president. The surrounding green areas invite you to picnic and walk.

Humayun’s Mausoleum

In 1993, the Hamayun Mausoleum was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is the tomb of the second Indian Mughal Emperor Nasiruddin Muhammad Humayun and was built for him in the 16th century. Visually, it is reminiscent of the Taj Mahal, as similar plans were used for this structure.

Lodi Gardens

In the midst of the hustle and bustle of New Delhi is a sprawling oasis of calm. The Lodi Gardens park includes several mausoleums as well as historical buildings. With its variety of flowers, countless palm trees and green spaces, it offers an ideal change from the bustling streets on an area of around 360,000 square metres and invites you to take a long walk.

Interesting markets in New Delhi

Khan Market

Spices New Delhi — Image: Curioso / shutterstock

In the immediate vicinity of the Lodi Gardens is the Khan Market. Here you can discover many international restaurants and shops. It is particularly popular with expats, as they are very likely to find all their favourite national foods here. Due to the many designer boutiques and jewellers, it is also a meeting point for the more affluent inhabitants of New Delhi.

Dilli Haat

If you are looking for traditional handicrafts, you should not miss the Dilli Haat market. In addition to saris, handbags and jewellery, many other typical souvenirs are also offered for sale here every day. After shopping, a visit to the small restaurants and snack bars there is a good idea to try Indian delicacies.

Chandni Chowk

The Chandni Chowk shopping district includes a variety of markets in New Delhi’s Old Quarter. Here, typical Indian street food, such as samosas, is offered at numerous small stalls. Tourists are particularly enthusiastic about the many foreign smells as well as the variety of colors and spices. If you want to learn more, you can take part in one of the famous food walks. There, culinary insider knowledge is imparted and a wide variety of dishes are tasted.

New Delhi’s Places of Worship

Jama Masjid

In addition to the Taj Mahal and the Red Fort, Shah Jahan had the Jama Masjid built. The largest mosque in India is also made of red sandstone and black and white marble and is located not far from the Red Fort. When visiting, tourists must be careful to wear long clothes and not to come during prayer times, as it is then not possible to enter.

Gurudwara Bangla Sahib

The flagpole, wrapped in orange cloths, is the sign that characterizes every Sikh temple. Those in need of help should see him from afar. Here, everyone who needs it can get medical help, meals and overnight accommodation – free of charge. The Sikh community is considered to be extremely helpful, as the support of fellow human beings is their top priority. At the Gurudwara Bangla Sahib , you can marvel at how food is prepared for up to 50,000 people every day. And the golden interior of the temple is also worth a visit.

Lotus Temple

This Baha’i temple was built in the shape of a lotus flower and opened in 1986. Every year, around three million visitors enjoy the extraordinary architecture and this place of silence. The nine gates of the Lotus Temple symbolize the openness of the Baha’is to any kind of religion.

Akshardam

The Akshardham Temple and the surrounding grounds are one of the largest temple complexes in the world. It was opened in 2005 and, in addition to the Hindu temple, offers its guests several exhibitions, gardens and modern things, such as a water show. Within five years, about 11,000 construction workers and volunteers created this magnificent structure. In 2007, it was included in the Guinness Book of World Records.

Special festivals in New Delhi

New Delhi is loud and colorful. The joie de vivre conveyed by this can be experienced especially on the Indian holidays.

The Holi Festival

Holi is the spring festival of the Indians and is based on the calendar of the Hindus. On the first full moon day of the month of Phalgun, friends and families in northern India meet to splash each other with water and throw colorful color powder at each other. The color is intended to make all people equal and no longer differentiate according to gender, religion or caste.

Diwali

Diwali is also a Hindu festival, but is also celebrated by many followers of other religions. At this festival of lights, Indians decorate their homes with colorful lights and decorate them solemnly. Traditionally, fireworks are also set off, which has now been banned due to the air quality in New Delhi.

Culinary specialties in New Delhi

If you visit New Delhi, you won’t be able to eat enough of the countless different dishes. In addition to the filled dumpling, the samosa, and the fried snack pakora , the famous biriyani, a rice dish, should definitely be tried. At the end of every Indian meal belongs the enjoyment of a sweet. Jalebi, a confectionery with sugar syrup, is ideal for this. A masala chai, a tea with milk and spices, rounds off the meal perfectly.

Round trip Philippines – Southeast Asia’s island paradise

PatrickJullien

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30. May 2025

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Round trip Philippines – Southeast Asia’s island paradise

Until a few years ago, the island state of the Philippines was hardly developed for tourism, but the Southeast Asian island paradise is slowly thawing. We are going on a round trip in the Philippines.

Completely unjustly, the Philippines is a much lesser-known holiday destination than other Asian countries, because the island state in the Pacific is hard to beat in terms of beautiful islands, picturesque beaches and cultural highlights.

The fifth largest island nation in the world has a turbulent past and has been independent since 1946 and is now home to over 105 million people. A direct flight from Germany takes 14 hours, but it usually has to be changed again, for example in Dubai or Singapore.

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Round trip Philippines – The most beautiful islands

The state of the Philippines comprises 7641 islands and archipelagos on an area of 343,000 square kilometers, which is slightly smaller than Germany, and the nature, culture and people of the different parts of the country are correspondingly diverse and varied.

Palawan

The island of Palawan and the surrounding region are hard to beat in terms of natural beauty. Many small islands and archipelagos, some of which are hardly larger than a rock jutting out of the sea, form a tropical dream landscape here, which is often only accessible by boat and is still untouched by mass tourism.

A highlight of this region is the island of Calauit with its African animals, because during the Marcos regime, 104 African wild animals were settled here as a gift from Kenya, which coped very well with the climate on the island and have multiplied and become feral. Today, you can observe wild giraffes, zebras and impalas on a jeep safari in the middle of Southeast Asia. An experience you won’t soon forget

Boracay Island

Much more touristy is the island of Boracay , which with its white sandy beaches has probably the most beautiful bathing opportunities in the Philippines, perhaps even in the whole world. White Beach and Diniwid Beach are particularly gorgeous. In 2018, the island was closed to tourists for 6 months to give nature time to recover. In the meantime, the island is open again and the colorful life continues.

Bantayan Island

Located at the northern tip of the much larger island of Cebu , Bantayan Island is also a dream beach destination in a class of its own. With palm-fringed white sand beaches such as Sugar Beach or Alice Beach and the Spanish colonial buildings in the island’s interior, Bantayan has something for everyone. Today, the island is mainly home to luxury resorts and upscale accommodation. A special highlight of the island is also the picturesque Ogtong Cave .

Sights on a round trip Philippines

The capital Manila and the Fuerza de Santiago

Manila Cathedral, Image: Richie Chan / shutterstock

About 13 million people live in the megacity of Manila and its surroundings and most visitors to the Philippines spend as little time here as possible. Nevertheless, the city has a lot to offer, especially a visit to the Fuerza de Santiago, a former Spanish fort from the colonial era. This is a good opportunity for visitors to learn more about the eventful past of the island state. The Spanish fort together with a small restored district are a must part of every Manila tour and revive a little of the spirit of the past.

The Simala Shrine in Cebu

Located on the beautiful island of Sabu , not far from Cebu, Simala Shrine is arguably one of the most extraordinary and unexpected places in the Philippines. Located high in the mountains of the island, it is a religious shrine dedicated to the veneration of St. Mary, which attracts countless visitors every year. The hustle and bustle in and around the complex is correspondingly dense, but due to its beauty, it should not be missed.

The underground river at Puerta Princesa in Palawan

About three hours from the island’s capital Puerta Princesa is one of the 6 UNESCO World Heritage Sites of the Philippines – the underground river. To discover the river, you must either book a tour with a tour operator or buy a permit from a government office. Once you have made it to the river, the visitor is greeted by a small underground world, a cave full of stalagmites and stalactites, which leads deep into the mountain. A true miracle of nature.

Rice Terraces in Banaue – The Steps to Heaven

Rice Fields Luzon, Philippines — Always a fascinating sight: rice fields in the Philippines, Image: R.M. Nunes / shutterstock

The landscape around Banaue in the north of the island of Luzon , which is characterized by rice terraces, is so picturesque that it has even made its way onto a Philippine banknote. The rice terraces built on the mountainside can be admired most beautifully from the Banaue viewpoint and are among the most beautiful in the world. Rice was cultivated here for the first time over 3000 years ago and over time thousands of rice terraces were built into the mountainside, which are now also called “steps to heaven” by the locals.

The city of Cebu – heritage from the colonial era

The colonization of the Philippine islands began in 1521, when the Spanish explorer Magellan first landed on the island of Mactan . The city of Cebu City is still a living relic from the colonial era and offers its visitors the former Spanish Fort San Pedro and the Catholic Santo Nina Church , among other things. The Taoist temple looks somewhat unusual here in the cityscape, which takes into account the large Chinese minority of the city.

Chocolate Hill on Bohol

The island of Bohol looks like a small piece of paradise, where visitors can expect not only the white sandy beaches that gently slope into the sea, but also a dreamlike interior of the island with green vegetation and winding rivers. A special highlight of the island are the so-called chocolate hills , which, according to legend, were created from the tears of a giant with a broken heart. The limestone hills, which are over 1200 and 30 to 50 meters high, turn brownish every summer as the grass growing on them dries out, which earned it the name “Chocolate Hills”.

Experience Tallinn: modern meets historic

PatrickJullien

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30. May 2025

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Experience Tallinn: modern meets historic

Tallinn, the capital of Estonia on the Baltic Sea, is a stunning destination that many people don’t even have on their radar yet. The city is very compact and versatile, so you can experience a lot in a short time. From large, modern city impressions to magnificent Gothic architecture and wonderful impressions of the countryside and on the coast, Tallinn offers something for every taste.

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Tallinn: the jewel of the Baltic States

In every city trip , you usually aim for the city center first. If you are looking for sightseeing objects and the typical local atmosphere, you will usually find what you are looking for in the old town centre. What distinguishes Tallinn is the best-preserved Old Town in Northern Europe. Its Gothic towers, romantic cobblestone streets and medieval architecture make Tallinn the pearl of the Baltics.

Tallinn – Every side street is a photo motif!

Tallinn in winter — Image: Aleksey Stemmer / shutterstock

While in many places very special, individual buildings have to serve for photo motifs from all over the world, in Tallinn one can confidently pronounce a toast to digital photography. The authentic charm of the ancient buildings can be discovered in almost every side street. Not only old churches with Gothic, high pointed towers, but also old barns and gigantic houses of former merchants inspire in Tallinn on every corner.

Kohtuotsa: This view is inimitable

From the Kohtuotsa observation deck, holidaymakers can admire the rooftops of the Old Town and enjoy views of Tallinn and the harbour beyond towers, red roofs and chimneys (punctuated by surreal-looking modern skyscrapers). This view is truly unparalleled and is a recommendation at any time of the year.

The top 5 things to do in Tallinn

On a city trip, there are always a few must-sees. Certain fixed points almost have to be worked off in order to be able to cover the destination comprehensively. In Tallinn, these are the following five destinations:

Katharinental Castle

The Clay Gate, Image: Boris Stroujko / shutterstock

While Tallinn’s Old Town is mainly home to medieval and Gothic architecture, Catherine’s Valley Palace attracts tourists with its luxurious splendour and Baroque style, dating back to Tsarist times (Tsar Peter the First had the palace built for his wife Catherine at the time). The front and the park, including the wonderful fountains of the ensemble, is impressive. Inside there is a large collection of international art.

The Kadrioru Park

In good weather conditions, Kadrioru Park is a destination worth visiting. 70 hectares of city park captivates with dreamlike ponds, romantic pavilions, lovingly landscaped flower fields and impressive details. Under the Estonian sun, the park invites you to linger and is ideal for long walks.

The city wall

View of Tallinn, Image: GagliardiPhotography / shutterstock

What used to deter enemies is now a tourist attraction where art is exhibited and sold, and a small, traditional bakery (the Müüriääre Pagaripood) sells its delicacies. The impressive walls including defensive towers offer many photo motifs. Medieval charm at its best!

The Balti Jaam Market

At Balti Jaam (the Baltic Railway Station) there is a three-storey marketplace that is unique. Here, emphasis is placed on quality, craftsmanship and health. In addition to Estonian handicrafts and thus individual souvenirs and memorabilia, the food on offer here is fantastic. If you really want to try original and traditional Estonian food, you are in good hands at Balti Jaam Market. Specialties from Estonia/Tallinn are very similar to Russian cuisine: mostly plain and simple, but delicious. Here you will find delicious, rustic fish dishes, meat dishes mostly with pork, sauerkraut, potatoes, mushrooms and milk or cream products on the plate. Truly a delicacy and nowhere more authentic to be found than here!

The Helios Hall

To experience something in Tallinn that is truly special and modern, head to Helios Hall. When you enter this art museum, it almost feels like you’re in another world, or at least a completely different time zone, after the medieval old town, the rustic impressions, the Gothic churches and baroque palace gardens. Here, artists such as the Art Nouveau star Gustav Klimt, the tragic Van Gogh or the impressionist Claude Monet are breathed new life. Their paintings are staged by light and sound effects and appear almost three-dimensional. For art lovers, Helios Hall is a dream come true.

Las Vegas – Desert metropolis and destination for gamblers

PatrickJullien

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30. May 2025

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Las Vegas – Desert metropolis and destination for gamblers

The United States of America has always been a popular destination for vacationers and some cities have a special attraction. These include, for example, Las Vegas, which is known as a marriage and gambler’s paradise. The city in the western state of Nevada has about 650,000 inhabitants, spread over 340 square kilometers. Every year, the metropolis attracts more than 40 million visitors, who flock to the city mainly because of the numerous casinos in the large hotel complexes and because of the possibility of getting married here quickly and easily.

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From Mormon settlement to gambling paradise

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

If you visit Las Vegas, you will come across a place whose beginnings date back to 1854. In that year, the Mormon religious community founded a first settlement in the middle of the Mojave Desert. Interestingly, the city name Las Vegas (it comes from Spanish) is translated as “The Meadows” or “The Meadows”, which is surprising at first given the location in the desert. However, the city has various artesian springs where passing treks used to be able to supply themselves with water.

After the Mormons abandoned the settlement after only three years, the U.S. Army built Fort Baker from about 1865. When a widow named Helen Stewart sold much of her ranch to a large railroad company in 1903, and two years later the railroad ran from Los Angeles to Salt Lake City to Las Vegas, the acquired property was divided into individual parcels and sold to interested parties. This sale is considered the official birth of the city of Las Vegas as it exists today. The construction of the Hoover Dam between 1931 and 1935, as well as the legalization of gambling in Nevada in 1935, provided the final impetus for the city’s growth.

Las Vegas – Play, Play and Play More

Every visitor to Las Vegas should definitely visit one of the casinos, which are mainly located along the Las Vegas Strip and dare to make at least one bet. The hotel complexes in which they are located are as gigantic as they are unusual. The most famous casinos are:

For Seasons
Mandalay Bay
Luxor (a hotel in pyramid form)
Excalibur (a castle complex)
MGM Grand Hotel (venue of important boxing matches)
New York-New York (modeled on the skyline of the megacity)
Park MGM (also known as Monte Carlo)
Mandarin Oriental
Planet Hollywood (home to one of the largest casinos in the city)
The Cosmopolitan
Paris Las Vegas (recognizable by the replica of the Eiffel Tower)
Bellagio (5-star hotel)
Caesars Palace
Flamingo (hotel with 3,626 rooms)
The Mirage (one of the most famous houses in Las Vegas)
The Venetian (lagoon city-style facility)
Stratosphere (hotel, casino and observation tower in one complex)

Las Vegas Sign — The famous street sign, Image: somchaij / shutterstock

In addition to these well-known houses, there are other opportunities to try your luck with Delano, Tropicana, Bally’s, The Cromwell, The LINQ Resort and Casino, Harrah’s, Casino Royale, Wynn, Trump, Circus Circus, SLS Las Vegas and Encore. Especially the large hotel complexes often have several thousand rooms as well as huge casinos, where guests can easily pursue their pleasure at the countless slot machines or gaming tables for roulette, poker, blackjack, baccarat or craps.

Hotels in Las Vegas as sights

Not only the casinos are considered a sight in Las Vegas, but also the hotel complexes themselves, in which the casinos are integrated. If you come to the city, you should take a closer look at the Luxor in the shape of a black pyramid, the New York-New York with its skyline based on New York or The Venetian with its canals and gondolas.

The hotel operators have each focused entirely on the theme specified in the hotel name in terms of design, entertainment and equipment. No matter which hotel you go to, you enter a world of your own and feel transported to Italy, France or Egypt . There are plenty of shopping opportunities in the hotel complexes and, of course, numerous restaurants and cafés.

High Roller, Big Shot and SkyJumping – experience for the very daring

For those who want to experience more than the thrill of the casino, Las Vegas has a very special experience in store. The Stratosphere Tower is not only a hotel and casino, but also a “world of experience” for visitors with strong nerves. If you have a lot of courage, you can use the roller coaster called High Roller, which has been installed on the roof of the tower, at a height of 240 meters.

The Big Shot is a catapult with which you are catapulted about 40 meters into the air, mind you from the tower mast. With the chain carousel called “Insanity – The Ride”, which runs along the outside of the tower, pure thrills are the order of the day and those who dare can jump from the 350-metre-high Stratosphere Tower into the depths and do SkyJumping.

Las Vegas Stretch Limo Service and Dancing Fountains

Bellagio Water — Water show in front of the Bellagio Hotel in 2012, Image: Paul Brady Photography / shutterstock

Who doesn’t dream of being chauffeured in a stretch limousine at least once, like the big Hollywood stars. In Las Vegas, there are several providers for such a service. With such a vehicle, the big entrance would be guaranteed and the whole family would certainly have fun being driven to dinner in this way.

Another highlight is the water fountain in front of the Hotel Bellagio, which is up to 152 metres high and illuminated by around 5,000 spotlights. It consists of 1,200 water jets, is considered the largest fountain in the world and is launched at regular intervals of 30 or 15 minutes. Especially at night, the fountain, which dances to classical and modern melodies, is a truly impressive experience. The spectacle is complemented by the city’s incredibly extensive neon signs. With the Neon Museum, there is even a visitable “cemetery” for the disused neon lighting.

Hoover Dam, Colorado River, and Grand Canyon

If you are already a guest in Las Vegas, then you should also take a detour to the world-famous Hoover Dam and the Colorado River. The dam, named after the 31st US president, dams the Colorado River into a gigantic reservoir with a total volume of 35 billion cubic meters, is located about 45 km from Las Vegas and can be easily reached by rental car.

The dam has a height of 226 metres and the US 93 state road runs on its crest, but its traffic volume has now been reduced by a new bridge. You have to take a slightly longer trip if you want to visit the Grand Canyon National Park . There are special tour offers here.

Down-to-earthness and culture in Cleveland

PatrickJullien

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30. May 2025

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Down-to-earthness and culture in Cleveland

Cleveland – an underrated city by many, showcasing what the Midwest of the USA has to offer.

The Ohio city has a down-to-earth charm. Beer, sports and rock and roll mingle with cultural highlights such as the world-famous Playhouse Square and the Cleveland Orchestra. In recent decades, Cleveland has developed from an industrial center to a metropolis and has not forgotten how the chat with the neighbors works.

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Sports & Beer in Cleveland

Sports play a big role in Cleveland. The three major professional sports teams and their stadiums are places of worship. There are the Cleveland Browns, who play in the NFL, the Cleveland Cavaliers basketball team, and the Cleveland Indians, the city’s baseball team. When staying in Cleveland, you should not miss a visit to a game. You can feel how the city stands behind its teams and the sports fever is contagious.

And what goes better with a visit to the stadium than a cold beer? The inhabitants of Cleveland are very proud of their brewing skills. With a stamp book you can go through the city and try a beer at every tap. Sports and beer, the down-to-earthness of the Midwest has not been lost in Cleveland, despite the great growth, and you can feel that in the togetherness of the people.

From Rock & Roll to Classical Music

Skyline Cleveland — View of the Cleveland skyline, Image: f11photo / shutterstock

If you prefer music instead of sports, you will also get a taste for it in Cleveland. The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame features everything from Elvis to the Beatles to Jimi Hendrix. In addition to exhibitions on certain artists, the roots of rock and roll are also told. The Hall of Fame is a must for all fans of the music genre of the 80s.

From rock and roll it goes into classical music. The Cleveland Orchestra is one of the five largest symphony orchestras in the United States. The musicians are treated like local celebrities in the city. The orchestra is currently on display at the Masonic Auditorium and Severance Hall.

Experience theater culture in Cleveland

The Terminal Tower, Image: Kenneth Sponsler / shutterstock

Sports and music, what is still missing? Theatre, of course. In the Gateaway District is the so-called Playhouse Square. Here, one big theater follows the next. Playhouse Square in Cleveland is the second largest theater district in the country after Broadway in New York . Five major theaters play over 300 different shows. Brightly lit in the evening, the district also offers the most popular restaurants and bars in the city.

A little piece of Italy

A special feature of Cleveland is the well-known Little Italy district. It is very suitable if you want to go out in the evening. The many restaurants and bars of Italian gastronomy range wines and delicacies from Italy. On the streets there are almost exclusively shops selling goods from Italian manufacturers. The designed house facades and murals also contribute to the Italian flair.

The district also has a lot to offer historically. The Church of the Holy Rosary was built around 1905 and is always worth a visit. At the same time, the Alta House was built, which is located in the neighborhood. It belongs to the Italian community and should definitely be visited.

Vancouver – a city of diversity

PatrickJullien

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30. May 2025

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Vancouver is one of the most beautiful cities in the world. This is mainly due to the fantastic location between the sea and the mountains. Modern skyscrapers, countless parks, elegant shopping streets, restaurants, cafés, bars and well-known cultural sights are close together in the centre of Vancouver and invite visitors to varied discovery tours. A vibrant metropolis that you should have seen once in your life.

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Welcome to Canada!

It’s not uncommon for Vancouvers to see whales swimming in the ocean in the morning, eat in hip restaurants, and start the weekend on Fridays with a mountain hike or skiing.

The city offers a high recreational value, which Canadians appreciate very much. 2.4 million people live in the city on the Pacific. This makes it one of the largest in western Canada. Every year, hundreds of thousands of visitors travel to Vancouver to explore the city’s charms. Many sights make your stay in the big city metropolis eventful.

In short: Anyone who visits Vancouver falls head over heels in love with the city and is enchanted by its beauty. The large city centre alone inspires with very different districts such as the maritime harbour district of Gastown, the beach of the West End or the cosmopolitan Yaletown.

In addition, the interesting, diverse cultural landscape of the city, in the heart of the state of British Columbia, is impressive. The UBC Museum of Anthropology provides visitors with vivid information about the life and history of the First Nations, Canada’s indigenous peoples. Modern galleries, on the other hand, represent the culture of the present. Robson Square is home to international fashion stores and large shopping arcades selling the trends of tomorrow. Chinatown is the heart of an Asian city.

The Capilano Suspension Bridge, Image: Yingna Cai / shutterstock

There are tens of thousands of small shops and delicious restaurants here. A look at the city’s calendar of events makes it clear that night owls also get their money’s worth here. Popular music festivals, art exhibitions and other event highlights take place regularly. Tourists really realize Vancouver’s unique location from a bird’s eye view: huge fjords, large forests, and the white peaks of the Coast Mountains surround Vancouver and Stanley Park.

Vancouver City Garden

Canada’s largest urban park is located in the center of the city, on a 400-hectare peninsula. Stanley Park is also known as Vancouver’s green lung, as over 500,000 trees grow high into the sky here.

Science World Vancouver — View of Science World, Image: SvetlanaSF / shutterstock

Inconceivable! The park is known among day-trippers for the totem poles – carvings of the indigenous people that tell interesting stories from ancient times. In addition, a large network of cycle paths and walking paths runs through the park. You will pass lovingly designed rose gardens, children’s playgrounds and romantic places to relax. The Stadtgarten is surrounded by the 9 km long waterfront promenade – Seawall.

If you cross it, you stand on the beach and have an indescribable view of the Pacific Ocean and the big city behind you. The waterfront promenade is perfect for a morning jog or for relaxed bike rides. Especially in good weather, there is an unforgettable view of the skyline. Families with young children should plan a visit to the Vancouver Aquarium. It is located in the middle of the peninsula and is home to around 70,000 species of fish.

Foodlover: Discover Vancouver’s culinary delights

On the other hand, if you want to get to know the country’s cuisine, you should visit the Granville Island Public Market. Here you will find a large selection of typical local specialties, freshly caught fish and sea bulls as well as regional delicacies. Book a guided tour with a local guide and discover delicacies from all over the world together.

Lions Gate Bridge, Image: LeonWang / shutterstock

Tastings included! Another culinary treat that is part of any Vancouver vacation is a visit to the Honey Dip Donut at Lee’s. Here you can find by far the best donuts in town. A souvenir that should not be missing in any suitcase is of course the popular Canadian maple syrup. It can be bought everywhere in the city. So you can revive holiday memories at home while enjoying freshly baked pancakes.

Coast Mountains – a local recreation area at the gates of the big city

The Canadian coastal mountains, just outside the city, are an 85-million-year-old mountain range. The Coast Mountains stretch along the Pacific coast. The highest elevation is Mount Waddington, which is over 4000 meters high.

The mountains are one of the most diverse local recreation areas for Vancouvians. Many people spend their free time here. 342 kilometres of slopes with perfect snow conditions attract city dwellers to the mountains in winter. In the Coast Mountains alone, there are 48 ski lifts in the immediate vicinity of the city. In addition, there are countless water and leisure parks for families with children in the valley. Of course, the area is also ideal for extensive discovery tours into the Canadian wilderness. There are hikes with a guide to particularly beautiful places.

Tip: If you want to experience Vancouver’s breathtaking natural landscape from above, you should book a sightseeing flight on a seaplane. Acrophobia? Then visit the 4D simulator and take a virtual “Fly Over Canada Tour”. A unique experience paired with beautiful nature shots and special effects.

Final tips for a trip to Canada

Mountains Vancouver — View of the snowy mountains of Vancouver, Image: karamysh / shutterstock

Vancouver is worth a visit at any time of the year! In spring, the city shines in a delicate shade of pink, because then the blossoms of the cherry trees bloom and everywhere in the city it smells wonderfully sweet and flowery. Summer lures people out into nature. Nearby national parks offer outdoor enthusiasts a wide variety of leisure activities.

In autumn, the countless trees of Stanley Park shine in every conceivable hue. A unique spectacle! Winter is going to be cozy. Then the city is transformed into a Christmas winter wonderland and the snow attracts ski bunnies to the slopes. For a holiday in Vancouver, a minimum stay of 3 to 4 nights is recommended.

Skyline-Vancouver — Image: mffoto / shutterstock

The city has so much to offer and you can plan great follow-up tours from Vancouver, such as a round trip through British Columbia or a ski holiday in Whistler – one of the most popular winter sports resorts in the country. One thing you should not forget during your holiday: Allow yourself enough time to enjoy and let the beautiful place work its magic on you with a coffee or Canadian delicacies. Soak up the special atmosphere of the city and experience first-hand why Vancouver is one of the most livable metropolises on earth. This love will not pass so quickly!

Geneva – City of mountains, museums, fondues and peace

PatrickJullien

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30. May 2025

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Geneva – City of mountains, museums, fondues and peace

Geneva is a city where the world meets. The metropolis in French-speaking Switzerland is the headquarters of the United Nations, the Humanitarian Red Cross and calls itself the “Capital of Peace”. It is also a city with an unusually high density of sports cars and high-end boutiques. For travellers, Geneva is mainly about its museums and mountains.

The Geneva / Lausanne metropolitan region has about 1.2 million inhabitants. The city of Geneva is located in a bay on Lake Geneva, from which the Rhône River flows. The city is surrounded by the Jura Mountains and Mont Blanc.

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Museums

Lake Geneva (or Lac Léman), Image: Samuel Borges Photography / shutterstock

There are many museums in Geneva. The city is not only known for the United Nations and banks, but also for the watches. In the Plainpalais district is the “Temple of the Watchmaker”, the Patek Philippe Museum of the same name. It contains the best movements of the local watchmakers. The Mamco is the largest Swiss museum for modern and contemporary art. The exhibitions at Mamco are world-famous.

Not far away is the Museum of Ethnology (MEG) with its ethnological collection, which includes 80,000 objects and 300,000 books. Apart from that, there are several natural science museums, such as the Musée d’histoire des sciences, the Microcosm or the Geneva Museum of Natural History.

Shopping in Geneva

Geneva, United Nations — The headquarters of the United Nations, Image: nexus 7 / shutterstock

Most of the high-end boutiques can be found in the area around the Rue du Rhône. If the prices here are too high for you, you can also look out for the many individual shops. This is especially good in the artists’ village of Carouge, the “Greenwich Village” of Geneva, or in the old town with its numerous alleys, boutiques, shops and galleries. The first shopping address was to be the Globus department store.

Attractions in Geneva

The city’s landmark is the Jet d’eau, a jet of water that shoots 500 liters of water at a height of 140 meters. Especially from the Bains des Pâquis you have a good view of the Jet d’eau. In summer, the city meets here for swimming and in winter for fondue in the sauna. In the old town, travelers will find the Place du Bourg de Four and the Cathedral of St. Pierre.

The Parc des Bastions is a green idyll in the middle of the city. The Reformation Monument is also located here within the city walls. In front of the concert pavilion, you can play chess free of charge with large pieces. In winter, an ice rink is built here. The headquarters of the United Nations is located on Avenue-de-la-Paix. For those interested in history, a visit to the former fortification, Fort L’Écluse, is a good idea. As far as religious buildings are concerned, there is also the Châtillon-Michaille, the Basilique Notre-Dame de Genève and the Russian Orthodox Church of Geneva.

Cafés and restaurants

Café de la Paix is one of the oldest restaurants in the city and mainly offers a mix of Italian-French dishes. However, the title of the oldest restaurant in Geneva is claimed by the Café du Soleil. Here you will find the best fondue in Switzerland and other cheese specialties. The Café de la Gare serves typical Parisian brasserie dishes such as veal kidneys, sausage, black pudding, beef bourgignon and Swiss dishes. Chez Boubier, on the other hand, is famous for its unique butter.

Around Geneva

Not only the city itself has a lot to offer. Mont Salève can only be reached within a few minutes from the city center by taking the cable car. Depending on the season, it is suitable for paragliding or skiing. Geneva’s vineyards are particularly suitable for day hikes, for example between Lake Geneva and the Arve River. Near Lausanne are the terraced vineyards of Lavaux. There are also a few castles in the area, such as the Château de Voltaire and the Château de Coppet.