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From Hamburg to the north with the camper

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North of Hamburg are the most beautiful camper destinations in Europe. Schleswig-Holstein attracts with beautiful beaches and picturesque fishing villages. Behind it stretches the Kingdom of Denmark with the offshore islands and over 7000 kilometers of coastline. When you cross the Øresund, you are immersed in the world of Pippi Longstocking, a colourful wooden house backdrop and the fairytale archipelago. North of it, Scandinavia shows its most beautiful side with legendary fjords and untouched nature. What are you waiting for: Rent a campervan in Hamburg and go on holiday.

Discover the land between the seas with a camper

Lighthouse Sylt, Schleswig Holstein
Sunrise on Sylt, Image: Jenny Sturm / shutterstock

Schleswig-Holstein is one of the most popular German travel destinations. Some are drawn to the quiet beaches of the Baltic Sea and others prefer the harsh climate of the North Sea. The range of campsites along the coast is almost inexhaustible. Here you will find campsites with direct access to the beach or in the middle of the fertile marshland. Many islands are also easily accessible by camper. At the very top Sylt with a large selection of idyllically located campsites.

The Rantum campsite convinces with its unique location directly on the basin of the same name and the site in Wennigstedt extends directly behind the dunes. In the south of Schleswig-Holstein there are flourishing cities and small fishing villages. The land of cabbage is crossed by the Kiel Canal and from Eiderstedt you can experience North Sea holidays in a class of their own. The peninsula is an ideal starting point for mudflat hikes and the sulphur springs of St. Peter-Ording are a treat for body and mind. Theodor Storm was already inspired by this unique landscape. Real connoisseurs go to Schleswig-Holstein in spring or autumn. At Easter, everything is in full bloom and in autumn the North Sea shows its rough side. After a stimulating walk on the beach, you can retreat to the camper and enjoy fantastic sunsets.

The small kingdom in a big way

Sttrand Havneby, Römö
On the beach of Havneby on Rømø, Image: 5149mich / shutterstock

Denmark is a paradise for campers. On every corner you will find inviting places that could not be more different. If you are looking for peace and quiet, you can retreat to the family-run campsites away from the tourist areas. The campsites on the west coast are holiday centres and offer everything that belongs to an exciting holiday, from bathing areas to wellness and daily entertainment. Just across the border up to Skagen stretches Jutland, the fixed part of Denmark. The roaring North Sea coast is known for its miles of sandy beaches. The Baltic Sea coast, on the other hand, is quieter and the beaches are sloping.

The island of Rømø offers campsites in the immediate vicinity of the beach and there is a lot of activity here in summer. Fanø and Møn, on the other hand, are more of a destination for individualists. The further north you drive, the more paradisiacal the landscape becomes. The Limfjord scores with secluded beaches and picturesque harbours. Here you can buy the crabs directly from the cutter or walk through fairytale villages. The coast of Thy attracts surfers from all over the world and in Skagen you will find the most beautiful dune landscape in Europe. We continue over the Little Belt to Funen. In Odense, visitors can walk in the footsteps of the fairy tale writer Hans Christian Andersen or go whale watching on a safari. Below the Great Belt, campers are drawn to the paradisiacal islands of Langeland, Lolland and Falster. Copenhagen’s capital is known for its cosiness.

Welcome to the home of Pippi Longstocking

After driving across the Øresund, you will reach Malmö. Here, too, the maritime flair dominates. If you continue the journey, you will be immersed in the locations that inspired Henning Mankell. Mystical villages, remote coastal strips and stony archipelagos show Commissioner Walander’s backdrop. But Sweden is opposite. In some places, the colorful wooden houses seem like a land of milk and honey and one understands why Pippi Longstocking could only have been created in Sweden. It is quiet everywhere and time sometimes seems to have stopped. Even the big cities of Stockholm and Gothenburg lack any form of hustle and bustle. Holidays in Sweden mean deceleration. If you arrive here with your camper, you are spoilt for choice. There are campsites right on the beach or along the archipelago. If you want, you can camp directly at the waterfall or in the remote hinterland. In summer, festivals are celebrated everywhere and people indulge in the bright time. But the dark winters also have flair. In Swedish Lapland , you can camp in dreamlike snow-covered landscapes and watch the fairytale play of colors of the Northern Lights.

Mysterious fjords and cute trolls

Norway is unique and full of impressions. Anyone who has ever traveled the country with a camper will never get away from it. It is the interplay of nature, the fascinating landscape, the warmth of the people and the fabulous stories that make Norway seem so different. One moment you are standing on a metre-high ledge and enjoying the fantastic view of the turquoise fjord and the next moment the cold and rough wind of the Norwegian Sea bites and ice masses of the glaciers threaten to fall down on you. Even the cities are unnatural in Norway. Oslo is far too cozy for a capital. Bergen is packed with postcard motifs. Here you can also buy Christmas decorations in winter, enjoy a panorama of superlatives with the Fløibanen or simply indulge in the maritime hustle and bustle. The fjords are indescribable and constantly changing their appearance. Bizarrely, the rocks rise up into the sky, the masses of water plunge along the stony surfaces and the boats on the water look like a miniature landscape. Many holidaymakers drive by camper to the North Cape and meet moose and learn about the traditions of the Sami.

Indiana on Lake Michigan: Between dunes and colorful deciduous forests

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The US state of Indiana is located in the northeast of the huge country. To the north, the state borders Lake Michigan. With an area of around 95,000 square kilometers, Indiana is one of the medium-sized states in the USA. Almost 6.8 million inhabitants are spread over this area. Indiana is characterized by a natural landscape that is as diverse as it is varied.

In the south, hilly landscapes that are extremely densely wooded are lined up, while the north, on the shores of Lake Michigan, is characterized by dune landscapes. The capital of Indiana, Indianapolis, is undisputedly one of the most famous metropolises in the USA with 830,000 inhabitants. The city has a long tradition of automobile construction and motorized racing, which can be seen on every corner within the city area. In addition, a lot of interesting cultural events take place here. Outside the USA, the city is also known for the Midwest music festival and the Indy Fest jazz festival. So if you have a mixture of exciting and varied landscapes, car racing and culture in mind for your holiday in the USA, Indiana is the right place for you.

The capital Indianapolis is an exciting starting point for the journey through the state of Indiana

Skyline von Indianapolis
Skyline of Indianapolis, Image: f11photo / shutterstock

Indianapolis is the ideal starting point for a round trip through Indiana. The city is centrally located, in fact right in the middle of the US state and has an international airport. The city became known early on for the Indianapolis 500, which is one of the oldest car races in the world. If you happen to be in the city during the race days, then a visit to the race facility is mandatory.

But even outside of the race days, a visit to the Indianapolis Motor Speedway is an absolute highlight. Because the four-kilometer-long racetrack, which is built into an oval and whose grandstands offer space for a total of 300,000 visitors, is not only considered the largest sports stadium in the entire USA. The Indianapolis Motor Speedway also has the special feature of being one of the few racing areas in the world to be centrally located, and thus within the city of Indianapolis. At the attached Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum, visitors can learn all about the history of racing in Indianapolis. Indianapolis is still considered a city of art. The Indianapolis Museum of Art has an extensive art history collection that exhibits not only American but also many European, as well as some African and Asian artworks. The exhibition programme runs through numerous art epochs, such as late medieval art, the Renaissance and contemporary works of art.

Some of the most famous artists exhibited there are Domenico Tintoretto, Vincent van Gogh, Claude Monet or Albrecht Dürer. The Indiana State Museum provides information about the history and culture of the entire state. Originally, numerous Native Americans settled in Indiana, which ultimately helped the state to get its name. In addition, Indianapolis impresses with beautiful parks and green spaces. Fort Harrison Park and Eagle Creek Park are particularly popular with nature lovers and families with children. You should also take a look at the very sublime-looking Capitol of the state of Indiana. The building was largely built in the Renaissance style and can be visited free of charge from the inside and outside. Exciting festivals in the city’s streets, such as the Indy Jazz Fest, take place mainly in the autumn months from September to November.

Indiana Dunes National Park on Lake Michigan

Indiana Dunes National Park
Indiana Dunes National Park, Image: Jon Lauriat / shutterstock

If you travel to Indiana, you definitely have to make a detour to the Indiana Dunes National Park on Lake Michigan. This national park was only established in 2019 and covers an area of 61 square kilometers. The most exciting area of the spacious area is a 24-kilometer-long coastal strip that stretches along Lake Michigan. In its form, it can easily compete with the dune landscapes of the North Sea or Baltic Sea . In addition to dunes up to 60 meters high, the national park also contains some swamp and moorland areas as well as no less than 1,100 different plant species. Furthermore, all bird and butterfly lovers get their money’s worth here. the offer for tourists in Indiana Dunes National Park is enormously diverse. You can explore the park either as part of guided tours or on your own. There are numerous well-marked hiking and biking trails, a campground, fishing, horses that can be booked for horseback riding, and of course, designated swimming areas right on Lake Michigan.

The densely forested south of the state of Indiana

The south of the state of Indiana, unlike the northern spheres, is not characterized by water, but by forest. First and foremost, mixed forests are to be expected here, which reveal an incredibly colourful and dreamy face in autumn. If you like hiking, you can experience wonderful nature adventures here, especially in the autumn months. Enchanting hiking trails include the Hoosier National Forest and Brown County State Park. Mountain bikers also feel at home in the latter. However, a little attention should be paid to the reptiles living in Brown County State Park, because among them are rattlesnakes. If these don’t frighten you, you can also camp in the park. McCormick’s Creek State Park is home to passionate anglers. In the nearby Spring Mill State Park, caves can be explored. The longest cave area in the entire USA is also located in the south of Indiana: the Indiana Caverns. Here, rivers and lakes located in the caves can be crossed on guided tours by boat. The Paoli Peaks are home to snowboarders and skiers in winter

Port Louis – Capital of Mauritius

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Summer, sun, beach and sea, in Mauritius you get it all with tropical temperatures and a wonderfully relaxed atmosphere. But when it comes to Mauritius, it doesn’t necessarily have to be a beach holiday, because the island state in the southwest of the Indian Ocean has a lot more to offer. The capital, Port Louis, has some must-see sights. With about 175,000 inhabitants, the city is the center of the state par excellence. So we will be happy to tell you which spots you have to travel to and what you have to pay attention to.

Get to know the origins

Port Louis, Mauritius
View of Port Louis, Image: Ryan Chan Yam / shutterstock

The town of Aapravasi Ghat is of central importance for Mauritius, as many of the inhabitants are of Indian origin. It is assumed that the first settlers set foot on the island at this place and thus laid a foundation stone. Economic sales in Mauritius started with the cultivation of sugar cane. From 1834 onwards, Aapravasi Ghat was considered the central levy location for this economically important business. Nowadays, this location is even a UNESCO World Heritage Site. There you will learn many things about colonialism, because at that time many immigrants from the British colonies came to Mauritius. An interesting piece of history that you should not miss!

Colorful, colorful, Mauritius

When you think of Mauritius, you immediately think of an image that counts as one of the figureheads of Mauritius par excellence, namely the colorful umbrellas above the market. These can be found on the Caudant Waterfront, at the harbor district. There you stroll along a beautiful promenade, where many small shops, restaurants, cafés and more have settled. From there you can watch the many ships, including impressive yachts, that enter or leave the harbour every day. An absolute must is the “Umbrella Square”. There, the many colorful umbrellas float above your heads. It is one of the most popular photo motifs ever and looks simply stunning. Be sure to see this spectacle!

Experience past times up close

An equally important part of Mauritius’ culture are the many museums that explore the island’s rich history. Among other things, you will discover a department in the Natural History Museum that teaches the animal and plant past and present. Depictions of long-extinct animal species can be explored here. Why did they become extinct, who was responsible? How long did you live here and which relatives still live on the island today? What about the flora and fauna? All these questions and many more will be answered at the Natural History Museum.

No less interesting and just as famous is the Blue Penny Museum. In 1847, the so-called “Blue Penny” was printed. This is a stamp. This was made for the occasion of a masked ball in the building of the then government and is exhibited there. You are probably wondering what is so special about this stamp. Well, quite simply: only a limited number of 500 pieces of this brand were produced. Of these 500 brands, only five unique pieces exist worldwide today. Nowadays, a stamp is worth at least 650,000 euros. A stamp worth well over €650,000? You have to see something like this!

Racing as you only know it from movies

No other sport has such a cult status on the island of Mauritius as horse racing. You can experience this up close at the Champ de Mars racecourse. The inhabitants love their sport and actively cheer along. Every weekend, more than 30,000 people travel to the racecourse and bet on the racehorses. For some people, it’s just a place where they meet their friends again and again and spend some time together. Still others watch the spectacle to soak up the unique atmosphere. Don’t miss this spectacle and visit the Champ de Mars racecourse!

Lively, bustling and multi-layered

Le Caudan Waterfront, Port Louis
Le Caudan Waterfront, Image: wsf-s / shutterstock

The Central Market in Port Louis offers everything that makes Mauritius special: colourful variety, exotic fruits, spices and vegetables and genuine craftsmanship, which is still passionately practiced in the many small shops. These small handicraft masterpieces are ideal to take home as a small souvenir or souvenir. It may overwhelm you at first, but feel free to go for it. The wild confusion, the many bright colors and the masses of people running around are like from another world. It’s just fascinating and a bit scary at the same time. The Central Market is a place you can’t forget on your trip to Mauritius!

Result

Port Louis in Mauritius has so much to offer that you won’t be able to marvel at it all in a single day. Take the time to enjoy everything in peace. Learn from the exciting history, immerse yourself in the wild crowd of the market and let the impressive culture work its magic on you. There are so many things to discover, so many supposedly small places to marvel at. You should experience Port Louis consciously, get fully involved and you will have an unforgettable holiday.

Montana: An exciting trip to the U.S. state of mountains and the Indians

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The US state of Montana is a prime destination for those who love nature and space. Montana is located in the far north of the USA and borders Canada there. The name of the state is derived from the Latin word montanus, which translates into the English language means mountain. Anyone who knows this will not be surprised that the fourth largest of the American states is crisscrossed by sweeping mountain ranges. Montana’s most popular tourist destination is, not surprisingly, Glacier National Park, which borders Canada .

There is a sprawling nature reserve located in the middle of the Rocky Mountains. There alone, nature lovers can easily spend a holiday of several weeks that will not be boring. But Montana has even more to offer. In the south of the extremely sparsely populated US state with just over one million inhabitants, there is another of the most famous national parks in the USA: Yellowstone National Park. Yellowstone National Park is not only a UNESCO World Heritage Site, but also boasts an exciting population of wildlife such as grizzly bears and bison. Montana’s highlights are complemented by the Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument, one of the most historic places in the entire USA. Here, visitors can learn a lot about the Native Americans, the Indians.

Experience the frosty magic of Glacier National Park

Monatana - Glacier National Park
Glacier National Park, Image: Bill45 / shutterstock

Glacier National Park overwhelms everyone who visits it. On an area of around 4,047 square kilometers, there are a total of 175 mountain peaks and 25 glaciers. In addition, there are no less than 762 lakes. The national park can be visited all year round, but in winter the roads that crisscross Glacier National Park can be snowy or frozen, which requires drivers to have good driving skills to be able to move around safely.

In winter, you are rewarded for this by fairytale snow and ice landscapes, where you can go snowshoeing, for example. Cross-country ski trails are also groomed then. The very daring can try their hand at ice climbing here in the winter months and explore the diverse mountain landscape of the Glacier National Park up close. From June to September, all roads in the park are largely free of snow and therefore easily passable. These are excellent conditions for embarking on one or the other hiking adventure through exciting flora and fauna. On the way you often meet mountain goats or dockhorn sheep.

For example, you can walk around the 16-kilometer-wide Lake McDonald, which is the largest lake in the national park, on the Trail of the Cedars. If you prefer to move on the water, you can cross the lake by boat. No matter what you choose, you always have an excellent view of the mighty glaciers surrounding the lake with all possible options. The Glacier National Park can also be crossed by train. A multi-day train journey not only takes tourists to Canada, but also allows them to visit all the vegetation levels of the Glacier National Park from the train’s panoramic carriages.

Explore forests, wilderness and wildlife in Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park in Montana
A herd of bison moves quickly along the Firehole River, Image: YegoroV / shutterstock

If you want to explore Yellowstone National Park, which stretches over several US states, on Montana territory, choose one of the two park entrances to the north. The small town of Livingston has been the most popular entry point into Yellowstone National Park since the 19th century. On the way to the park, it is worth taking a detour to the Railway Museum of the City of Livingston. Another access point to the park is near the even smaller town of Gardiner, which is crossed by the 1,114-kilometer-long Yellowstone River. From Gardiner, you enter the park through the massive Roosevelt archway. From there, it’s on to the Grizzly and Wolf Discovery Center, where you can get up close and personal with bears and wolves. The Bear Paw Trail invites you to hike through the park’s wooded landscape. Hiking is very popular in Yellowstone National Park anyway. About 2,000 kilometers of designated hiking trails can be hiked in the almost 9,000 square kilometer national park.

Visiting the Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument

In addition to breathtaking scenery, the US state of Montana also has a rich history. This was marked by numerous conflicts between the white settlers from Europe and the North American indigenous population, the Indians. The territory of today’s US state of Montana was once home to 13 different Indian tribes. The most famous Indians among them are the members of the Sioux tribe. Even today, many of the indigenous people live on Indian reservations, of which there are seven in Montana alone.

On June 25, 1876, a battle finally took place at the Little Bighorn between cavalry troops of the white settlers and the representatives of several Indian tribes. The natives were led by the Indian chiefs Sitting Bull and Crazy Horse. The fighting was about the white settlers taking over a mountain range that was considered sacred to the Indian tribes. They hoped for the financially profitable mining of mineral resources there. Since the Indians defended their territory and put up surprisingly strong resistance, many members of both sides had to lose their lives in the battle. On the Little Bighorn Battlefield, a memorial was set up soon after the battle, which now commemorates not only the white victims of the battle, as originally, but also the Indians who died in the battle in a sincere way.

Round trip through the USA – metropolises, coasts and national parks

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USA – three letters behind which are 50 states that attract countless travelers every year with their unique landscapes and cities. A round trip through the third largest country in the world therefore takes time. But of course, there are some pearls that have special appeal and that travelers in the United States of America should not miss.

The Big Apple – New York’s multi-layered appeal

Among the many metropolises in the USA, New York on the East Coast is one of the biggest tourist attractions. The “Big Apple” on the Atlantic used to be the first port of call for emigrants from the European continent. The first eye-catcher was the Statue of Liberty on Ellis Island in New York Harbor. Today, visitors climb the spiral staircase of the 93-meter-high statue and enjoy the view from above over the harbor to Manhattan, the urban heart of the city. Washed by the Harlem, East and Hudson Rivers, the island is home to bustling Times Square and the sprawling and popular Central Park. The green lung of the city throws twice the size of Monaco into the balance for those seeking relaxation and athletes. The 443-meter-high Empire State Building goes up. The galleries in the building impressively show the origin of the high-rise building, which is so magnificently illuminated at night. In the 86th and 102nd Observation decks offer unbeatable views over one of the most densely populated areas in the world. A visit to the city also includes the monument to September 11 at “Ground Zero”, where the two towers of the World Trade Center once stood. Right there are two water basins today, framed by the engraved names of the victims.

Hawaii – tropical paradise with lava, beaches and rainforest

Hawaii, Napali Coast on Kauai
The Napali Coast on Kauai, Image: Alexander Demyanenko

Far out in the Pacific lies the archipelago of Hawaii. The 50th US state fascinates with two of the most active volcanoes on earth, paradisiacal beaches, breathtaking nature and a warmth of the people that is second to none. The tropical paradise with its volcanic origin is the epitome of lush flora, casual joie de vivre and palm-fringed dream beaches such as Waikiki Beach on the island of Oahu. The main island of Hawaii, also known as the Big Island, has a whole series of black beaches to the south and southwest and the green beach of Papakolea. Water sports enthusiasts will find perfect conditions for snorkeling, diving and surfing. The landscape captivates with lush rainforests and unique diversity, which is also due to the climate. Warmth is guaranteed here all year round. The Big Island is dominated by the volcanoes Mauna Loa and Kilauea, which are still active. They are part of the Hawaii Volcano National Park, which is part of the World Heritage Site. In any case, Hawaii has the largest volcanic system in the world.

Spectacle in the desert – Las Vegas

It attracts people who want to get married and gamblers as well as tourists – Las Vegas, the city of casinos and legendary shows. Located in the middle of the desert of the state of Nevada in the southeast of the USA, the city turns into a sea of lights at night. Replicas of the Eiffel Tower or Venice, a pyramid or a copy of the Statue of Liberty – the hotels and buildings of Las Vegas are all eye-catchers in their own right. Trying your luck at the gaming tables or “one-armed bandits” is a must. Many trendy clubs offer the opportunity to turn night into day. Of course, the many shows also attract visitors to the desert city, where show stars such as Celine Dion make guest appearances.

Hollywood and a legendary bridge – L.A. and San Francisco

San Francisco, Golden Gate Bridge
The Golden Gate Bridge, Image: Travel Stock / shutterstock

In California on the Pacific , two special metropolises await visitors: Los Angeles and San Francisco. In L.A., stars and starlets cavort in Hollywood – the “Walk of Fame” is a must when visiting. The famous Venice Beach and the pier in Santa Monica are also worth a visit. San Francisco’s most famous landmark, the Golden Gate Bridge, spans the bay for over 2,700 meters in length. In that bay is also Alcatraz, the notorious prison that can be explored on a guided tour. The old houses from Victorian times are also an absolute eye-catcher.

Landscapes full of differences – the national parks

The climatic conditions of the huge country make for completely different landscapes. The swamps of the Everglades in Florida are no less attractive, as are the impressive Niagara Falls. In addition, the USA has 61 national parks, all of which are worth visiting. One of the most famous national parks is, of course, the Grand Canyon. The gorge with its enormous dimensions is up to 1,600 meters deep and almost 450 km long, with an average width of 16 kilometers. The Colorado River has dug itself into the rock here over time. It is not for nothing that the Grand Canyon is considered one of the world’s greatest wonders of nature and is also part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site. Yosemite National Park, located in the Sierra Nevada in California, is also a World Heritage Site.

The diverse fauna and flora, the giant sequoia trees and the dominating, over 2,000-meter-high granite mountains Half Dome and El Capitan have brought it into the headlines worldwide. The state of Utah has 5 national parks to offer. Their common nickname “Big Five” is fitting, as Arches, Bryce, Canyonlands, Zion and Capital Reef National Parks are peppered with red mountains, impressive waterfalls, rivers and natural stone arches – a hiker’s paradise.

All these landscapes and metropolises are representative of the great diversity that makes up a round trip through the USA. Between the Pacific and the Atlantic, there are many well-known, but also some unknown beauty that are waiting to be discovered.

Looking for the perfect round trip in the USA for individual needs? You could find what you are looking for here.

Excursion destinations on Lake Garda

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Lake Garda attracts not only with great water, wonderful accommodations and all kinds of possibilities on the lake itself, but also with its perfect starting point for exploration tours. Geographically almost perfectly located, some of the most interesting destinations of northern Italy can be reached in a very short time. This is one reason why so many families, but also couples and singles, decide to spend the most beautiful weeks of the year at the lake. But what are the most interesting excursion destinations and sights that you should have experienced and seen during your stay before heading back home?

The sights in the immediate vicinity of the lake

There is a lot to see – no wonder, Lake Garda is huge and on its various shores some of its own villages and towns have developed. One of the absolute classics, however, is without question the Castello Scaligero in Sirmione. The small town of Sirmiona has existed for centuries and the magnificent castle ruins still speak of this time from the Middle Ages. The relatively well-preserved ruin can be visited and takes visitors for a moment back to times when tourists were still a rarity at the lake. Here you can also visit the thermal springs, which have been promising relaxation since Roman times.

Riva del Garda, Lake Garda
Lake Garda near Riva del Garda, Image: pointbreak / shutterstock

One of the most beautiful places in the immediate vicinity of the lake – and perfect for a trip – is Riva del Garda. The old city has a long history and especially the tower in the center of the city, which rises 35 meters into the air, is a popular destination for tourists. Once at the top, you not only have a great view over the lake, but also of the old town and the historic harbor, which is a last trace of how important the lake has always been for the people in the region.

If you are interested in the sights in the immediate vicinity of Lake Garda, you will eventually come across the Scaliger Castle in Malcesine. One of the oldest castles in Europe, which was probably built in ancient times and is closely linked to the history of the lake. Here you get a real insight into the historical development. The guided tours combine excitement and education for children as well as adults.

Enjoy the nature around Lake Garda with different activities

Of course, there are not only historical buildings and villages to discover. Lake Garda attracts above all with its diverse nature, the nearby Alps and the many opportunities for sporting activities. It is a paradise for hikers, who can explore the different landscapes around the lake as well as the nearby mountains. A variety of guided tours are offered in groups – but of course you can also go on an exploration tour through the area on your own and discover the beauties of nature here without strangers.

The many bicycle routes around the lake are particularly popular with holidaymakers. In most of the holiday resorts you can relax and rent bicycles or you can bring your own bikes and set off on the track. In addition to the destinations already mentioned, a trip to the hinterland is of course also recommended, where various smaller lakes and tributaries can be discovered. One or the other rustic tavern with northern Italian cuisine is also waiting to be visited.

Start city trips from the comfort of Lake Garda

Venice
The Grand Canal with the baroque church of Santa Maria della Salute, Image: Phant / shutterstock

From Lake Garda, you can visit some of the most beautiful cities in northern Italy in no time. Venice , for example, is only about 150 kilometers away and with a bus trip you can be in the city in less than three hours. Of course, there is little to say about the city itself – Venice is world-famous and the city of canals is always worth a visit, especially in the early months of summer and autumn. Strolling through the streets and maybe taking a ride in the canals can be a real highlight for your holiday in Italy .

Not only Venice is worth a visit, but also the city of Verona can be reached quickly from Lake Garda. It is a lesser-known destination and yet knows how to score with its very own charm. The historic buildings and the narrow streets are perfect for looking for small shops and great restaurants where you can eat authentically. In combination with a visit to Mantua, which is also in the immediate vicinity, you also have interesting destinations for city trips outside the metropolis of Venice if you are drawn back to the city from the countryside of Lake Garda.

 

Holidays with the family: why is it important and how are harmonious holidays guaranteed?

Our everyday lives are usually characterized by stress and time pressure. Reconciling work with the family is a great challenge. Only rarely do parents enjoy hours together with their children, which – especially with offspring in adolescence – often leave a bad aftertaste due to disputes. Many mothers and fathers fear that family holidays could turn into a disaster. However, if you do it right, you can only benefit from it, because it is important for young and old.

Welding the family together

Experience has shown that shared experiences weld young and old together. A time-out leads to relaxation on both sides, suddenly all family members show a completely different behavior than at home. You get to know each other in a practically new way in changed life situations. To make this possible, parents and their children should do as much as possible together on holiday. This includes enjoying daily meals, relaxing hours on the beach and varied leisure activities.

Gain time together

Saving time is an important aspect during the holiday trip. Our everyday life is shaped by professional and school life, plus household, shopping and much more. After school, children often have to do a lot of homework. If there are hobbies on the agenda, the day is over without parents and offspring being able to talk in peace. A trip takes us out of the daily grind and finally allows us to spend a pleasant time together.

Charging batteries

At the latest when the travel preparations such as packing our suitcases are finally behind us, our energy reserves are usually used up. Holidays are the perfect opportunity to recharge our batteries and recharge our batteries. While parents and offspring relax together, all family members recharge their energy reserves. You benefit from this not only during the holidays, but also long afterwards – a harmonious coexistence at home is therefore on the agenda.

Take souvenir photos

Haflinger herds
In summer, you can discover huge herds of Haflinger on the South Tyrolean alpine meadows, Image: ON-Photography Germany / shutterstock

Today, the majority of the population has a smartphone with a good camera function. So it’s easy to capture funny and extraordinary moments forever on a picture. Whether you print them out at home or save them in your computer, watching them regularly is always fun for the whole family. In this way, the most beautiful moments in life are remembered and remain awake in us for a long time.

Learning for life on holiday

We hear again and again that travel broadens horizons. On every holiday we meet different cultures, customs and customs. Children often take great pleasure in learning foreign languages and showing off their newly acquired knowledge on site. The exotic tastes of foreign dishes can be tasted as well as unknown sports. For young and old, cosmopolitanism becomes a matter of course. The shared experiences and also the knowledge learned provide a first-class basis for a harmonious family life.

Choose a holiday destination together

It is impossible to make a generally valid statement as to when children should or can have a say in the choice of destination. It depends above all on their level of development, which varies greatly. Furthermore, it plays a role to what extent the offspring is also involved in family decisions in everyday life. Experts say that a child from the age of about 14 should be involved in decisions in all areas of life. To protect our youngest, exceptions confirm the rules.

Find the perfect destination

If opinions about the holiday destination are completely different, compromises should be found. The holidays are doomed to failure if one or the other family member “puts a good face on the bad game”.

Diversity in South Tyrol

Fortunately, there are a variety of offers today, which offer a wide variety of activities on the one hand, and a variety of relaxation facilities on the other. For example, the sports hotels in South Tyrol offer a fantastic selection of leisure activities:

  • Guided hikes
  • Accompanied e-bike and mountain bike tours
  • Golfing at the Pustertal Golf Club including shuttle transfer
  • Personal tour advice, shuttle service and equipment for snow hikes
  • Numerous services for skiing at Plan de Corones
  • Premium SPA with fitness, wellness and body treatments, also for kids and teens

South Tyrol has long been one of the most popular holiday destinations for families with children. The Italian region owes it both to its unique landscapes, including the fascinating Dolomites, and to beautiful cities worth seeing such as Bolzano, Trento and Bressanone.

Sun, beach and sea

Family
Enjoy your holiday together as a family, Image: Song_about_summer / shutterstock

If parents only long for relaxation, but children are bubbling over with energy, a satisfying holiday for everyone seems hardly possible at first glance. But this is not the case at all, at least if you consider the numerous travel destinations by the sea. Beaches alone offer an incredible number of opportunities to spend your holidays according to your own taste and needs.

Adults can make themselves comfortable on sun loungers and enjoy relaxing sun baths and refreshing sea baths. Stand-up paddling is possible at numerous holiday resorts – a popular and leisurely sport that also inspires many children. Depending on their age, mood and mood, the offspring – with and without parents – can take a surfing or diving course as well as take part in action-packed beach ball and other organized games.

For parents with small children as well as teenagers, a holiday in a well-equipped family resort is recommended. Young and old alike benefit from countless advantageous services and facilities, including:

  • Babysitters and toddler-friendly room facilities with high chairs, cots and more
  • Kids’ clubs, where the younger offspring are professionally supervised and entertained
  • Leisure programme for teenagers, including special entertainment, joint excursions, workshops, disco, etc.
  • Extra swimming pools for adults and children
  • Family sauna and wellness offers for young and old
  • Hotel’s own gastronomy, ideally with a varied buffet or children’s plates
  • Guarded private beach

Lithuania – the southernmost country of the Baltic States

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A real insider tip for holidaymakers from all over the world is Lithuania. But anyone who visits the southernmost country of the Baltic States will take countless unforgettable impressions home with them. After all, the country has a lot to offer – from beautiful old towns to breathtaking nature to the longest sandy beaches in Europe.

Vilnius and Kaunas: Beautiful historic old towns and numerous sights

If you are on holiday in Lithuania, you can’t miss the capital Vilnius . The city of 550,000 inhabitants in the southeast of the country is also affectionately referred to as the “Pearl of the Baltic States” – and quite rightly so. To explore Vilnius, you should take a lot of time. Even a leisurely stroll through the narrow streets of the historic old town reveals a lot of exciting insights into the more than 600-year history of the city. If you want to get an overview of the versatility of Vilnius, you have a fantastic overview of the entire city from the 140-metre-high castle hill near the Neris River. Here you can also see the remains of the Gediminas Castle. You can go even higher on the almost 330-metre-high TV tower, where you can enjoy the breathtaking view in a cosy café at a height of about 160 metres.

View of Vilnius, Lithuania
View of Vilnius, Image: Grisha Bruev / shutterstock

Vilnius is also famous around the world for its many historic buildings and churches. The impressive Cathedral of St. Stanislaus is the most famous church in the country. The Lithuanian National Museum, the city’s historic town hall and the Amber Museum, which is well worth seeing, are also worth a visit in Vilnius. If you are traveling in the center of Lithuania, you will also find plenty of opportunities to pass the time pleasantly in Kaunas. The second largest city in the country impresses with a beautiful historic old town. Among the biggest attractions here are the large art museum, the Devil’s Museum, the Kauno Pilis Castle and the largest reservoir in Lithuania, the Kaunas Sea.

Baltic Sea region with Klaipeda and beautiful beaches

Baltic Sea beach near Klaipeda in Lithuania
Baltic Sea beach near Klaipeda, Image: bravikvl / shutterstock

If you are traveling in the west of Lithuania, you should definitely make a detour to Klaipeda. In the popular port city, which is also the third largest in the country, it is also worth taking an extensive stroll through the old town. Extremely worth seeing are the sculpture park and the Memelburg Museum, among others. The famous historic sailing ship “Meridianas” is anchored directly in the harbour. The city’s landmark is one of the most famous and popular photo motifs in the country. The approximately 150-kilometre-long Lithuanian Baltic Sea coast is also always worth a visit. Here you will find numerous wide sandy beaches, which are among the longest and most beautiful beaches in Europe. 20 kilometres from Klaipeda is the seaside resort of Palanga with its impressive 470-metre-long pier, the most famous tourist centre in Lithuania. The ten-kilometre-long beach is also the longest beach in the country. On the Curonian Spit peninsula on the Lithuanian-Russian border is the small seaside resort of Nida, which also attracts thousands of beach vacationers every year. Nearby, on the beach of Smiltyne, you will also find what you are looking for in summer beach fun. It is striking that cleanliness is very important on the Lithuanian Baltic Sea beaches. The up to 60-metre-high shifting dunes on the peninsula are also not to be missed.

Breathtaking nature parks with lots of greenery and lots of wilderness

Lithuania’s nature also has a lot to offer. About a third of the country is covered with forest. Lithuania has five national parks. The largest is the Dzūkija National Park in the south of the country, which is divided into various nature reserves. Much better known, however, is the Curonian Spit National Park, which has many animals and plants in addition to popular beaches. With a bit of luck, you can even see moose in their natural habitat here. The Trakai Historical National Park near Vilnius is also always worth a visit. The absolute highlight here is the historic moated castle of the same name from the 14th century, which stands on an island in the middle of Lake Galve. Cyclists and hikers get their money’s worth throughout Lithuania. A special tip for this is also the Aukstaitija National Park with its dense forests and rolling hills.

Best time to travel to Lithuania: For hikers in May and June, for beach vacationers in July and August

Lithuania has a temperate climate all year round. The best time to travel to the Baltic country always depends on the plans of the holidaymakers. If you want to discover the country’s nature, you should go in May or June. During this time, pleasant temperatures of about 20 degrees Celsius prevail. If, on the other hand, you are looking for a beach holiday, the almost rain-free summer months of July and August with summer temperatures of around 30 degrees Celsius are just right.

Manacor – a shimmering pearl provides an upswing

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If you come from the west and reach Manacor, you will see a lot of concrete along the road: large supermarkets, gas stations, pearl and furniture factories. On the other hand, the centre of Mallorca’s third largest city has a lot of charm and is full of art treasures. Visitors only love Manacor at second glance. The modern city coat of arms shows a hand encircling a heart. “Man a cor” translates as “hand on heart”. Historians, however, insist that the city’s name is derived much less poetically from a Berber tribe called “Mancur”.

Surprisingly untouristy for Mallorca

In addition to the city of Manacor in the east of Mallorca, eleven other towns belong to the municipality. The city itself is surprisingly untouristy. Connoisseurs claim that it has been able to retain its Mallorcan idiosyncrasies to this day. Hectic is not one of them. The relaxed way of life of the Manacori is well known, they say, and the afternoon siesta lasts longer than elsewhere on the island, despite the otherwise urban life. It only gets touristy where beaches await holidaymakers: in S’Illot, Porto Christo, Cales de Mallorca or Cala Murada. These are just a few of the eastern districts of Manacor. In Son Macia, beautiful villas and fincas with sea views are hidden in hills and on lush green mountain slopes.

Palma’s little sister is something to be proud of

The city centre of Manacor surprises holidaymakers with ancient defensive towers, magnificent Wilhelminian buildings, spacious pedestrian zones, secluded corners and pretty cafés, bars and bistros with tables and chairs under lemon trees. Here you can enjoy the “Pa amb Oli” – the typical Mallorcan bread with garlic mayonnaise. It is worth taking a walk around the squares of Sa Bassa and Plaça Constitució. Every morning there is a vegetable market on the Constitution Square. On Plaça Ramon Llull there is a weekly market every Monday where you can buy souvenirs. Maybe a salad server made of olive wood?

Manacor is known for its olive species. The atmosphere in the city centre may be a little more rustic than in the island’s capital Palma, but Manacor doesn’t have to hide. If you’re looking for shopping, this is the place for you, because boutiques abound. Above the hustle and bustle in the middle of the old town is the mighty, neo-Gothic church “Parròquia de la Mare de Déu dels Dolors” with beautiful colorful windows, figures of saints and a cloister. Like the other churches of Manacor, it is worth seeing. The city offers a variety of accommodations – from simple guesthouses to a luxury hotel with five stars. If you are looking for something original, you will find luxury apartments housed in old sheepfolds.

From the Stone Age settlement to defensive towers from the Middle Ages

As early as 2000 BC, people settled in Manacor. Remains of Stone Age dwellings are still there. The settlement of S’Hospitalet Vell, which archaeologists estimate to date back to 1500-1800 BC, surprises with the ruins of a square tower, a column and a huge stone slab as a ceiling. Towers also played a role in later centuries. In the Middle Ages, the mansions of noble families had to be protected against attackers: the two-storey Torre dels Enagistes (“Tower of the Jesuits”) from the 14th century, a true fortress, is now home to the “Museo de Historia de Manacor” for archaeology and ethnology. On display are exhibits from the past millennia: ceramics, sculptures, mosaics, graffiti from many eras and the skeleton of a Mallorcan cave goat, which is unfortunately extinct.

Upturn in the second half of the 19th century

Until the 19th century, the inhabitants of Manacor lived from agriculture and animal husbandry, windmills dominated the landscape. But in the second half of the century came the industrial boom. While pottery, wine and liqueur production continued to play a role, furniture production and pearl production now became an economic sector that is still of great importance today. Manacor became a rich city. This is mainly due to an imitation pearl that resembles natural pearls or cultured pearls. It was developed by a German. The son of a factory owner, Eduard Heusch from Aachen (1865-1937), opened Manacor’s first pearl factory in 1902 and called his product “Perlas Majórika”. The special feature: The Mallorca pearl is made of organic material from the sea and has a glass or stone core. Their mother-of-pearl layers are not made of mother-of-pearl, but of fish scales and shell limestone – which are specially processed into a kind of mother-of-pearl porridge. This is applied to the core in many layers and hardened several times. The colored shimmer comes from colored minerals. Jewellery experts appreciate Mallorca pearls because they are more robust than originals, but can hardly be distinguished from the real thing.

The Dragon’s Cave with classical music and illumination

Rafael Nadal Tennis Center in Manacor
Rafael Nadal tennis center in Manacor, Image: neme_jimenez / shutterstock

If you leave Manacor behind and continue east, you will cross a scenic plain. Here, tennis player Rafael Nadal – who comes from Manacor – has built tennis courts, training centres and a school for young tennis players. The name Nadal is everywhere here, because the city is proud of him. We continue towards Porto Christo. The harbour town reminds visitors of the construction boom of the 60s, when many magnificent buildings still had to make way for parking lots. But visitors should not miss the stalactite cave Coves del Drac. It was not until 1896 that Mallorca explorer Ludwig Salvator had them researched and measured by an expedition. It not only has millions of years old, bizarrely shaped stalactites and stalagmites, but also an underground lake 180 meters long and 40 meters wide, Lago Martel. The Dragon’s Cave is a major tourist attraction. The wonderful world of the dripping stones is impressively illuminated. On the lake, a boat is picturesquely passed by the audience. In it sits a quartet that plays atmospheric classical music.

This is why Thai massage is so popular

Thai massage has been around for centuries and is still gaining popularity today due to its healing properties. A traditional Thai massage can be used to treat many different ailments and conditions, including chronic pain and stress. The massage is also so popular because it has been recognized by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity and is very affordable for many people because it costs less than other massages.

Benefits of a Thai massage

A Thai massage is a traditional massage that combines deep stretching with pressure to help you relax. Massage is a type of bodywork that uses long, flowing strokes and gentle, circular motions to reduce the effects of stress and anxiety, improve circulation, and increase the flexibility of your muscles. The massage technique can also help relieve pain from chronic conditions such as arthritis or fibromyalgia.

Thai massages are also popular for their therapeutic benefits, as well as their relaxing and calming effects on the mind and body. They’re a great way to relieve tension after a long day at work or university.

This is how a Thai massage works

Thai massage usually begins with a foot bath in warm water, which helps to relax the muscles before the masseuse starts working on the client. Next comes a light oil massage on the back and neck before moving on to more important areas such as the arms and legs. This is followed by extensive kneading of the muscles with both hands, which helps to release tension in the muscles before applying more pressure with fingers, palms and balls of the thumbs. The client is fully clothed during the massage.

How to recognize a good Thai massage studio

If you are looking for a good traditional Thai massage studio, here are some helpful tips that can help you. Make sure it has a lot of good reviews from its past customers on various websites like Yelp and Google. These reviews can give you an idea of how well the massage studio is performing and whether or not it is trustworthy.

When looking for a good
Thai massage nearby
, you can consider other factors. Here are some of the most important factors:

  1. Location – You should find a studio that is easily accessible and close to your home or office.
  2. Massage quality – The quality of the massage is important, so make sure you know what you want before you go to a studio that offers numerous services.
  3. Price – Check out different studios in your area and find out which one offers the best value for money.
  4. Opening Hours – Make sure you know what times the massage studio is open so you can plan ahead accordingly if needed.

How often should you go for Thai massage?

Thai massage
Image: Kittibowornphatnon / shutterstock

There are no set guidelines on how often you should go for a Thai massage. The frequency depends on your health condition and how much time you have to spend on the healing process. If you want to improve your health and get the most out of the benefits of Thai massage, then it’s best to schedule one every two weeks.

However, a Thai massage is not suitable for those who have severe muscle tension, as it can increase the tension and cause pain. It is also not suitable for people with heart problems, high blood pressure or diabetes.

How much does a Thai massage cost on average in Germany?

The cost of a Thai massage can vary depending on the number and duration of sessions per day and the location where it is given, and in Germany it is around €55 for 60 minutes of traditional Thai massage.

Result:

Thai massages are believed to have some health benefits, such as relieving pain from arthritis, relieving muscle tension, improving circulation, reducing fatigue, and improving sleep quality.