All about travel

Bordeaux – Culture and Cuisine in Western France

France

PatrickJullien

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5. February 2022

Bordeaux – Culture and Cuisine in Western France

In the middle of the French region of Nouvelle-Aquitaine lies historic Bordeaux, home to about 260,000 inhabitants. If you take the metropolitan region together, Bordeaux even breaks through the wall of over 1.2 million inhabitants – one of the largest settlements in western France. Historical sights such as the Place de la Bourse, the Pont de Pierre and the Cathédrale Saint-André prove that Bordeaux is at the top of the list of French cultural cities. Bordeaux is more than just a name for gourmets and wine connoisseurs: thanks to the famous Bordeaux wine, the hearty oysters and the sweet canelés, the city is an extraordinary culinary stop for visitors.

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Old Town and Place de la Bourse – The historic heart of Bordeaux

View of the famous La Bourse square in Bordeaux — View of the famous La Bourse square, Image: RossHelen / shutterstock

The highly respected title of UNESCO World Heritage Site has been held by the old town of Bordeaux since 2007. The award refers in particular to the historic core that unfolds within the old city walls. Nestled against the natural meanders of the Garonne River is the city’s historic architecture, defined by striking streets and old walls. Architecturally interesting are the old city gates Grosse Cloche and Porte Cailhau. The Great Cloche owes its name to the gigantic eight-ton bell, and the former historic town hall tower now towers over the cityscape, visible from afar.

In the late 15th century, the Porte Cailhau was built, which is now one of Bordeaux’s famous landmarks and monuments. When it comes to the city’s great landmarks, the name Place de la Bourse comes up again and again. The large square was built directly on the Garonne River in the 18th century. The historic harbour stock exchange once existed here, but today the square with its large fountain is considered evidence of the special classicist architecture of the 18th century. Under Napoleon, the Pont de pierre was built on the Garonne between 1819 and 1821, the stone bridge steeped in history, which is now only open to pedestrians and cyclists and invites you to stroll along the banks of the river. One thing is clear: The old town of Bordeaux has impressive facets to offer for fans of historical sightseeing. For example, there is the Cathédrale Saint-André, whose construction stretched from the 12th to the 15th century. Today, the Romanesque-Gothic façade is one of Bordeaux’s most important monuments – and is undoubtedly the largest and one of the most fascinating sacred buildings in the city.

Modern Bordeaux and its beaches, museums and places to visit

Old Town of Bordeaux — Out and about in the old town of Bordeaux, Image: LucVi / shutterstock

Bordeaux, however, is not only made up of the old town. This is exactly what makes the versatile city so attractive to tourists. Within Bordeaux, prominent buildings of modern architecture can be discovered. These include museums such as the Cité du Vin, the city’s wine museum – which also offers wine tastings of regional varieties. When it comes to the museums of Bordeaux, the Musée des Beaux-Arts is worth mentioning, which houses works by Rubens, Renoir, Matisse and Picasso.

Above all, the immediate destinations revolve around Bordeaux, but with Saint-Émilion there is also a fascinating cultural settlement in the vicinity of Bordeaux. About three-quarters of an hour’s drive away is the village, whose wine-growing region and settlement are now UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Here you will find a historic rock church and the facades of a historic place that was already known under the Romans for its viticulture. Bordeaux itself scores with an exposed coastal location, in fact the city is not far from beautiful Atlantic beaches. Beach holidays can be experienced on nice days at Archachon Bay, which is not even a kilometre away, a popular destination for sea holidaymakers. But not only touristically, but also culinarily, the sea at the Bay of Archachon – and the oysters it contains – is characteristic of the region.

Wine and specialities – Culinary Bordeaux

The magnificent wines of the Bordeaux region are born in the vineyards of the Médoc. Located directly on the Atlantic Ocean, the aromas of French Bordeaux wines from grape varieties such as Carbernet-Sauvignon to Merlot unfold here on carefully cultivated vines. The tradition of these western French wines can be traced back to Roman times. Unquestionably: For wine fans, a visit to the region is an absolute must. In general, the region is extremely multifaceted in culinary terms, Bordeaux is a paradise for gourmets. A typical Bordeaux wine is sometimes accompanied by specialities such as the oysters of the Bay of Archachon. Fresh seafood is typically part of the menus of regional restaurants. The Boeuf de Bazas, the beef from the region that is considered very tender, is also often served with regional wine. Popular desserts include the Cannelé caramel cakes and the Noisettine de Médoc nut chocolate. All of this – from the UNESCO-listed old town to the coastal location and the culinary richness – are good reasons to visit Bordeaux

The most beautiful destinations & sights in Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka

PatrickJullien

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4. February 2022

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The most beautiful destinations & sights in Sri Lanka

Paradisiacal beaches, impressive national parks and breathtaking temple complexes: Sri Lanka is rich in sights, attractions and excursion destinations. There is guaranteed to be something suitable for every holiday. After all, diversity is very important. Every year, many millions of visitors from all over the world visit the island state in the middle of the Indian Ocean for themselves. Sri Lanka is also known as the pearl of the Indian Ocean – and rightly so. After all, you can collect an incredible number of impressions here that you will probably never forget.

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Numerous dream beaches on 1,000 kilometres of coastline and diving paradises

Coral Reef Sri Lanka — A coral reef in Sri Lanka, Image: Dudarev Mikhail / shutterstock

Thanks to the approximately 1,000 kilometers of coastline, the coastal regions of Sri Lanka are of course predominantly characterized by beautiful beaches and idyllic bays. Thanks to the tropical climate, there are pleasantly warm temperatures in the air and in the water all year round. This means that bathing season is also all year round. Some of the most popular places for a beach and water sports holiday are located in the southwest of the island. These include Mirissa and Beruwala. In addition to plenty of space to relax on the wide sandy beaches and have fun swimming in the beautiful blue water, there are also plenty of water sports opportunities here. One of the most beautiful beaches in Sri Lanka is Nilaveli beach in the northwest of the country. Hikkaduwa is considered a Mecca for divers and surfers on the island. The dive station is located about 100 kilometers south of the capital Columbo in the middle of the Hikkaduwa Marine National Park. More than 170 different species of fish and countless other sea creatures live here.

Capital Colombo: Bazaar flair, exciting museum insights and temples

For most holidaymakers, a trip to Sri Lanka begins in the capital Colombo. After all, it is home to the country’s only international airport. You should definitely take your time to explore the cultural and economic center of the island state. After all, there is a lot to discover here. If you want to enjoy exciting market hustle and bustle in the middle of the city, the Pettah bazaar district is the right place for you. Here you can really find everything your heart desires.

The numerous museums such as the large Independence Museum or the Colombo National Museum are always worth a visit. In the latter, there are incredibly exciting insights into Sri Lanka’s eventful history. The magnificent Old Parliament Building and St. Anthony’s Church are also among the city’s top attractions. If you are looking for relaxation from a stroll through the city, Viharamahadevi Park is the right place for you. In the largest park in the city, there is a small animal park and a large Buddha statue, among other things. In and around Colombo there are also numerous impressive temple complexes.

One of the most important Buddhist sites in the country can be found about 12 kilometers from Colombo on the banks of the Kelaniya River: the Kelaniya Temple. Of course, there are also numerous sights outside of Colombo in Sri Lanka. For example, if you are traveling in the center of the island state, the city of Kandy should not be missed either. Among other things, the Sri Dalada Maligawa, the so-called Temple of the Tooth, is located here. Not far away, you will find the well-preserved remains of the former royal palace. The archaeological site, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is one of the most famous sights in the country. If you want to enjoy Sri Lanka from above, you can enjoy a beautiful view over a large part of the country from the rock temple Dambulla. Both the Temple of the Tooth and the Rock Temple are important parts of the so-called cultural triangle with countless cultural treasures. The cultural triangle can be explored as part of guided tours or on your own. Also not to be missed is the 200-meter-high Sigiriya Rock. The so-called Lion Rock with the historic rock fortress is one of the most important landmarks of Sri Lanka.

Breathtaking nature: elephants, sloth bears and colourful butterflies

Yala National Park in Sri Lanka, Image: GinaKoch / shutterstock

Sri Lanka is also famous and loved for its breathtaking nature. Most of the island is characterized by jungle. A fascinating flora and fauna has settled here in the past centuries. If you want to immerse yourself in this nature, you should definitely visit one or the other national park in the country. There are quite a few of them throughout the country. One of the most beautiful is the Yala National Park on the southeast coast. In the 1,300 square kilometer national park, leopards, sloth bears and elephants can be found, among other things. On the coast, you can also watch whales in their natural habitat.

Birdwatchers also get their money’s worth in Sri Lanka. A real insider tip for holidaymakers and locals, away from the big tourist centres, is the Gal Oya National Park. In the middle of the park is the Senanayake Samudra, the largest lake in Sri Lanka. If you have time, you should treat yourself to a traditional boat safari with locals and can also take a look at the traditional way of life of the island’s indigenous people. Probably the greatest diversity of flora and fauna can be found in the Sinharaja Forest Reserve in the southwest of the country. The reserve, which has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1988, includes the largest contiguous rainforest area in the country. If you are looking for native animal and plant species, you will definitely find what you are looking for here. Among other things, there are more than 60 different species of butterflies in the most dazzling colors

These cities should be visited by every travel enthusiast in their life

All about travel

PatrickJullien

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4. February 2022

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These cities should be visited by every travel enthusiast in their life

New York, Paris, London and Sydney are just a few examples of travel destinations that are very popular among city vacationers. If you are looking for something special, you should look outside these metropolises and focus on cities with their very own charm. We have looked around the world and made a list of the most impressive city trips that are just right for holidaymakers interested in history and culture.

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Bruges

The capital of West Flanders in Belgium bears the UNESCO label “World Heritage City” because it is characterized by a well-preserved brick Gothic style and the buildings form an architectural unit. Characteristic of the city centre are the medieval buildings, which characterise the scenery as authentic witnesses of time. Bruges is considered the birthplace of a group of artists of Old Netherlandish painting. Works of art from the “Bruges” are now exhibited in the Groeninge Museum.

The landmark of the capital of West Flanders is the belfry on the market square. A staircase with 366 steps leads to the observation deck of the 83-meter-high tower, which is located in the 13. and 14th century. At the same time, the building was intended to symbolize the power and wealth of the bourgeoisie and could not be surpassed by any other building. The climb is worth it not only because of the breathtaking views. Hidden in the tower is an old treasure chamber and the clockwork with carillon.

For centuries, the Bruges canals, known in Flemish as Reien, have been important connecting routes. The canals are reminiscent of Venice’s city scenery. Boat trips allow visitors to travel along the waterways, passing under romantic arched bridges and past enchanted gardens. On the 30-minute trip, which starts from five piers, tourists learn the most important things about the well-known sights.

Tip: A visit to the chocolaterie “Chocolate Line” is worthwhile, because the owner Dominique Persoone inspires with unusual chocolate creations such as edible chocolate color, chocolate lipstick or chocolate shooter.

Sukhotai

Today’s Thai city is located about 13 kilometers from the original capital of the kingdom of the same name. This was in the 13. and 14th century one of the larger kingdoms of the Thai. Sukhotai, which translates as “dawn of happiness”, was characterized by numerous Buddhist temples and monasteries. They have been preserved as ruins to this day and have been declared a World Heritage Site. Of the almost 30 complexes, there are some particularly valuable remains that are worth a visit. Wat Chetuphon is a walled complex with a cube-shaped pavilion in the middle. Its side walls were decorated with stucco figures of Buddha in different postures.

Wat Mahathat was the “Temple of the Great Relic” and, as the most important temple, represented the central point. Even today, the ruinous buildings house original Buddha statues from the old days. When the kingdom was in full bloom, the central sanctuary covered an area of 40,000 square meters. In addition to smaller buildings, there are about 200 towers, the so-called chedi. Wat Ton Chan is the “Monastery on the Sandalwood Tree” and is characterized by partially collapsed chedi towers. This monastery complex became famous for the archaeologically valuable terracotta amulet finds.

When the traditional Loi Krathong festival of lights is celebrated in Thailand , a trip is particularly worthwhile. The full moon night of the twelfth month within the Thai calendar usually falls in November. On this night, Thais place floating flower boats with lights and candles on lakes and ponds, so that they turn into a sea of lights in the darkness. This ceremony takes place in honor of the water goddess Mae Kongha.

Carcassonne

Anyone who visits this southern French fortified city embarks on a journey into the medieval past. The Cité de Carcassonne is a fortress built in the Middle Ages, which today represents the old town. However, its origins lie in the Gallo-Roman period. A double wall with a length of three kilometres and 52 defensive towers encloses the complex and is completely accessible. This double ring of defensive walls was intended to make the settlement impregnable. Today, the interior of the Mauerring with its narrow alleys tempts you to relax and explore. Restaurants and cafés spoil guests with typical French delicacies and artisans present their skills in small studios.

On the left bank of the Aude, the bastide of Saint Loius was built in the 13th century during the reign of the king of the same name. The streets were laid out in a checkerboard pattern starting from today’s Place Carnot. To this day, more inhabitants live in this lower town than in the ancient upper town. It is characterized by its architectural diversity and exudes a sumptuous charm with religious buildings and the Hôtels Particuliers. The hotel complexes impress with their elaborately designed facades, impressive gates and luxurious courtyards. These structures bear witness to the heyday of the textile industry in the 18th century.

Las Vegas

Numerous myths surround the metropolis of gambling. It is known for its colorful advertisements, the shrill nightlife and the approximately 70 casinos where masses of visitors challenge their luck. About four kilometers west of the city center is a nature reserve, which was built around the city’s original most important water source: the Las Vegas Springs. Four themed trails run through the Spring Preserve and end at an oasis called “cienega.” Here, visitors explore the history of desert life, gain insights into geology and immerse themselves in the floristic and faunistic biodiversity of the region.

Few visitors know that the city is the perfect starting point to marvel at some of the most exciting natural wonders of the USA . One of them is the Valley of Fire, 80 kilometers away, where temperatures rise to over 40 degrees Celsius in April. Red sandstone formations characterize the landscape. At Atlatl Rock, petroglyphs bear witness to a past when Anasazi Indians settled the land. The forces of nature have created interesting formations in the state park: the beehives are located directly on the thoroughfare and are reminiscent of oversized beehives, while the Elephant Rock near the east entrance resembles an elephant.

Edinburgh

It is not without reason that the Scottish city is called the “Athens of the North“. The flagship of the historic capital is the castle, which was built on a former volcanic cone. Archaeological finds indicate a settlement of the rock formation, which is dated to the Middle Ages. When exactly the castle was built is not known beyond doubt. Today’s castle is home to the legendary “Stone of Scone”. Since the medieval era, this has been used to crown Scottish and English kings.

Equally steeped in history is the “One O’Clock Gun” (German: 1 p.m. cannon). In times of flourishing seafaring, the cannon was fired daily at 1 p.m. sharp to give the sailors in the Firth of Forth an exact time. Even today, the cannon shot can be heard every day except Sundays at the same time. In August, the forecourt is transformed into the stage for the Military Tattoo, a parade of military bands and dancers.

The classicist Neustadt with its magnificent boulevards of the 18th century contrasts with the old town and the castle. In the New Town, the streets are arranged at right angles. Under the suburb of Gilmerton, the visitor gets an insight into the history of the settlement. An inconspicuous hut marks the entrance to a mystical complex of seven underground chambers connected by corridors and stairs. It is not clear what Gilmerton Cove was used for. The settlement itself was inhabited by miners and quarrymen.

Ystad

The southern Swedish city is considered the setting of Inspector Kurt Wallander. The author Henning Mankell has chosen his birthplace as the setting for his crime novels. Wallander’s house is located in Mariagatan. Visitors can explore other locations such as Fridolf’s pastry shop, the Hotel Continental or the police station with the Wallander app. It is not known why the writer chose the tranquil place as the backdrop for his brutal murders.

With its half-timbered houses and cobblestones, Ystad exudes a romantic flair reminiscent of Astrid Lindgren’s Bullerbü. In the surrounding area, flat hills and a long sandy beach dominate the picture. The former fishing town houses a church dating back to 1200. St. Mary’s Church is the oldest building in the small town. A tower guard sounds a copper horn every quarter of an hour every evening. This traditional profession has been practiced since the 18th century and is considered unique throughout the country.

The Cocos Islands in the Indian Ocean: A paradise for divers and beach vacationers

Australia

PatrickJullien

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4. February 2022

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The Cocos Islands in the Indian Ocean: A paradise for divers and beach vacationers

If you want to spend your holidays on the Cocos Islands, you should first familiarize yourself with the exact name of the archipelago that can be found in the Indian Ocean. In addition to being called the Cocos Islands, the archipelago is also known as the Keeling Islands. The Cocos Islands are a territory of Australia, although they are located 2,930 kilometers from the nearest Australian city of Perth.

The Cocos Islands are called Cocos Islands because the archipelago is known for its large population of coconut palms – it even bears their image on its flag. The islands belonging to the atoll have a total area of about 14 square kilometers. Furthermore, the Cocos Islands are extremely sparsely populated. Only about 550 inhabitants are spread over the 27 islands. If you are looking for peace and seclusion and are looking for fantastic beaches, this is the place for you. The average temperatures on the Cocos Islands are around 30 degrees all year round, which makes the islands a perfect swimming and diving destination.

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How to travel to the Cocos Islands

Cocos Islands in Australia — If you are looking for peace and relaxation, you are in good hands on the Cocos Islands, Image: Bildagentur Zoonar GmbH / shutterstock

Admittedly, the Cocos Islands are indeed not easy to reach. They are therefore not suitable for a short holiday from Europe, as the effort involved in the journey would simply be too high. But if you travel to Australia anyway, for example, it is worth taking a detour to the paradisiacal islands. The best way to start is from Australia. The Australian metropolis of Perth, which is located in the far west of the country and thus comparatively close to the Cocos Islands, is particularly suitable as a starting point. The flight time from Perth is approximately 4.5 hours. Direct flights are offered. The Cocos Islands Airport is located on its main island, West Island. From there, tourists can then take a boat to the other islands of the archipelago.

What you should consider when traveling to the Cocos Islands

A trip to the Cocos Islands is especially worthwhile for beach lovers and divers. Both will find the best conditions here. However, despite the pleasant temperatures all year round, it is best to arrive in the months of June to November. Outside of this period, there can be strong tropical cyclones on the Cocos Islands. In addition, there is an increase in long-lasting rainfall between December and April. There should be no problems with communication on the Cocos Islands. Since the islands are strongly oriented towards Australia, English is the official language of the archipelago. Payment is also made here with the Australian dollar. The climate is tropical, which means that the humidity on all the islands of the atoll is always very high. If you have health restrictions, you should have an informational meeting with your doctor before traveling to the Cocos Islands and check whether a stay in a tropical climate can be recommended.

The beaches of the Cocos Islands

One thing has to be said right at the beginning when talking about beach holidays on the Cocos Islands: Basically, it doesn’t matter which of the local beaches tourists would like to visit, after all, the Cocos Islands have nothing else to offer than dream beaches. Everywhere and on all associated islands, the beaches captivate with the very finest, almost white shimmering sand. In front of it stretches clear turquoise blue water whose temperature is always around 25 degrees. Of course, tall coconut palms can be expected everywhere. On the larger islands, the beaches are a little busier, but never overcrowded.

If you want to have a little infrastructure, it’s best to sunbathe here. In addition to sanitary facilities, there is often a café or a small beach bar, or hammocks and beach loungers to borrow. However, tourists who value these things should always find out in advance how well equipped the beach they are heading for. If you prefer solitude on the beach, you have several options to have a dream beach all to yourself. Long walks on the beach for two as well as experiencing romantic sunsets are very easy to do on the Cocos Islands.

Exciting diving adventures in the Cocos Islands

Whether snorkeler, beginner diver or diving professional: on the Cocos Islands, all friends of a colorful and natural underwater world will be happy. Especially in the northern part of the archipelago, one spectacular diving area follows the next. The areas that are located in the area of the Pulu-Keeling National Park are particularly recommended. Mammals are not to be found in Pulu-Keeling National Park. However, there are a wide variety of bird and turtle species to marvel at.

Furthermore, divers can discover no less than 99 different species of stony corals in the national park. Nine of them can only be found exclusively on the Cocos Islands. They do not occur anywhere else in the world. In addition, there are 528 different fish species, almost 500 underwater snail species and more than 100 different mussel species. Even the most experienced diver is guaranteed to be able to make one or two new discoveries here. Snorkelers also like to visit Direction Island, as they find the best snorkeling conditions in shallow water

Arizona: The Grand Canyon and much more

United States

PatrickJullien

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4. February 2022

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Breathtaking national parks, vast desert landscapes, canyons and numerous impressive sights: Arizona is famous for its incredible diversity. In the state in the southwest of the USA on the border with Mexico, an unforgettable vacation is guaranteed. The biggest and best-known attraction in Arizona is the Grand Canyon National Park in the northwest of the state.

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Canyon-State Arizona: The Grand Canyon as a tourist magnet

Havasu Falls, USA — The Havasu Falls in the Grand Canyon, Image: ronnybas frimages / shutterstock

The canyon of the same name in the middle of the national park, which has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site for many years, is one of the most famous sights in the world and attracts many millions of tourists and locals every year. You should take a lot of time to visit the huge gorge in the middle of an impressive rock formation. After all, the entire national park is almost 5000 square kilometers in size and there is an incredible amount to discover. You can explore the park either on your own or as part of a guided tour. From a plateau about 2,000 meters high and various smaller viewpoints, you can enjoy a breathtaking view over the entire park.

In any case, you should always have your camera at the ready to capture all impressions. If you like it a little more spectacular, you can discover the Grand Canyon National Park with a boat tour on the mighty Colorado River. The Colorado River flows into the vast Lake Mead. The largest reservoir in the USA, which is dammed by the impressive Hoover Dam, is also visited by millions of Arizona tourists every year. In addition to the flagship “Grand Canyon”, there are many other canyons to discover in Arizona, which has also earned the state the nickname “Canyon State”.

In the footsteps of the past

Montezuma Castle, Image: Pamela Au / shutterstock

But Arizona, as the state with the most so-called National Monuments, has much more to offer than the Grand Canyon. Built in the 12th century, Montezuma Castle near Flagstaff on the border with Utah is one of the best-preserved historic buildings in all of North America. Not far away, you can follow in the footsteps of the Navajo Indians in the Navajo Nation Reservation, the largest Indian reservation in the USA. In the middle of the reservation is also the world-famous Monument Valley, which should not be missing on any Arizona tour.

Phoenix: The City of Museums

Downtown Phoenix — View of downtown Phoenix, Image: Sean Pavone / shutterstockl

The capital of the state of Arizona, Phoenix, is also always worth a visit. The metropolis of 1.6 million inhabitants is both the largest city and the cultural center of Arizona. The city, which is about a four-hour drive from the Grand Canyon, is characterized by an exciting architectural mix of history and modernity. To take it in, it’s worth taking a leisurely stroll through the city centre. Not to be missed in Phoenix are the Phoenix Art Museum and the Musical Instrument Museum, the absolute highlights of the city’s incredibly diverse museum landscape. In the Botanical Garden, you can also get a great insight into the exciting flora and fauna of the state. An absolute highlight, especially for families with children, is the Big Surf Waterpark. The water amusement park leaves nothing to be desired with its numerous attractions in and around the water – from numerous slides to a huge wave pool and beach volleyball courts.

Diverse paradise for nature lovers

In addition to lovers of American history, nature lovers also get their money’s worth in Arizona – especially due to the numerous national parks, which are mainly characterized by desert landscapes and canyons. To discover them, many tourists rent a car on site to explore the state on their own. The flora and fauna have adapted to the high temperatures and drought in recent centuries. Among other things, the vegetation is characterized by huge cacti. On a foray through the state, you have a good chance of running into wild animals in their natural habitat – including mule deer or pronghorns. In the desert regions, you should watch out for beatings or spiders. In the mountains, with a bit of luck, you can even spot cougars or bears. On the Mexican border in southwestern Arizona, the Sonoran Desert is one of the largest and most fascinating desert regions in the world.

Best time to visit Arizona between November and March

The climate in Arizona is characterized by high temperatures of sometimes well over 30 degrees Celsius, lots of sun and dryness. The best time to travel to Arizona is during the winter months between November and March. Then, as expected, the temperatures are a pleasant 20 to 25 degrees Celsius. Precipitation is also rarely to be expected during this time.

Top 10 in Hamburg: These are the most important sights

Germany

PatrickJullien

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3. February 2022

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Top 10 in Hamburg: These are the most important sights

Hamburg inspires with numerous sights, some of which have a long history. Several of these sights can even be explored free of charge, as
the interactive map “Hamburg for every budget”
shows. Other sights cost little, but there are also various destinations for the slightly larger budget. In any case, Hamburg is worth a trip, whether for a short break or a long weekend.

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1. The largest warehouse ensemble in the world – the Speicherstadt

Interactive map with leisure activities
for every budget

The building complex of Hamburg’s Speicherstadt is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and houses various sights. When visiting the Speicherstadt, the International Maritime Museum, the German Customs Museum and the Speicherstadt Museum should be on the program. Coffee lovers should not miss the coffee roastery.

2. Hamburg in miniature – the Miniatur Wunderland

If you visit the Speicherstadt, you can plan a visit to the Miniatur Wunderland, which shows Hamburg on a scale of 1:87 and currently has an exhibition area of 1,500 square meters. There are various special exhibitions.

3. Karoviertel in St. Pauli

The Karoviertel in St. Pauli was once a poor district. Today, many restaurants, cafés and bars invite you to linger. There are also elegant boutiques.

Hamburg, Elbphilharmonie — The Elbphilharmonie, Image: sunfun/shutterstock

4. The Elbphilharmonie as a landmark

The Elbphilharmonie is a concert hall and the landmark of Hamburg. It was completed in 2016 and is characterized by good acoustics. Classical concerts are performed there as well as modern events. The Plaza offers an excellent view of the city as a connection between the glass façade and the old Kaiserspeicher.

5. Blankeneser Treppenviertel with 5,000 steps

The Blankenese Treppenviertel with its 5,000 steps requires a good level of fitness. It inspires with beautiful houses on the Elbe slope and winding alleys. The Süllberg is the highest elevation at 72 meters and offers a beautiful panoramic view of Hamburg.

6. Planten un Blomen as a spacious park

If you want to relax in nature, you can do so in the 47-hectare Planten un Blomen park with the moat and many small lakes. Several hours should be planned for a visit to the park with various gardens such as the Japanese Garden, Rose Garden and Botanical Garden.

7. Germany’s Most Visited Star Theatre: Hamburg Planetarium

The Hamburg Planetarium is the most visited star theatre in Germany and one of nine large planetariums. It is located in a former water tower and is one of the longest-serving star theatres in the world. The technology and the changing program are fascinating. The observation deck offers a beautiful view of the city.

8. A market with tradition: Hamburg Fish Market

If you want to watch and listen to real market criers praising their goods, you should get up early. The Hamburg fish market opens every Sunday from 05:00 a.m. to 09:30 a.m. At the traditional market hustle and bustle in Hamburg, not only fresh fish but also other goods are sold.

9. Alster and Alsterpark with many possibilities

The Hamburg Alster is divided into the Inner Alster and the Outer Alster. Around the Alster is the Alsterpark with many opportunities to discover or relax. A high-rise viaduct stretches across the Alster. The park offers many sunbathing areas, trees, and sculptures by various artists. If you want to see more of Hamburg from the water, you can opt for a trip by pedal boat or canoe.

10. The Old Elbe Tunnel in new splendour

A technical masterpiece is the Old Elbe Tunnel, which connects the Landungsbrücken under the Elbe with the port area in Steinwerder. It is car-free and can be explored by bike or on foot. It is open around the clock and shows various motifs on tiles. The tunnel was extensively renovated.

Colorado – Metropolises and National Parks in the Centennial State

United States

PatrickJullien

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3. February 2022

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Colorado – Metropolises and National Parks in the Centennial State

Natural Colorado unfolds in the heart of the USA, a hotspot for some of the most famous national parks in the USA: from the Rocky Mountains to the Mesa Verde. At the same time, cities such as Denver and Colorado Springs prove that the US state has a precious balance of urban city life and nature. A trademark of the US state is Colorado’s special altitude, which averages over 2,000 meters. This situation is largely due to the local Rocky Mountains, which make Colorado the Mountain State. Colorado was nicknamed the Centennial State because it was created almost exactly one hundred years after the United States declared independence. Today, the central US state with its natural landmarks and metropolises represents a tourist attraction in the middle of the USA.

Colorado’s metropolises – Denver and Colorado Springs

There are good reasons why Denver is now considered the capital of Colorado. The metropolis in the heart of the state is not only a cultural and economic center of Colorado, about 715,000 inhabitants now live here with a metropolitan region that is home to almost 3 million people. Today, Denver is recognized as a cosmopolitan city with national and international influence. In terms of tourism, the city is not only a gateway to the Rocky Mountains, here you can discover world-class cultural institutions. The Mile High City, located about a mile above sea level, offers culturally interested visitors highlights such as the Denver Art Museum with the Hamilton Building by Daniel Libeskind and over 70,000 art-historical exhibits – from Indigenous art to works by Picasso and Matisse.

The Denver Museum of Nature and Science provides visitors with an insight into natural history on over 66,000 m² and with over one million exhibits. This also includes a planetarium and an IMAX cinema. With these cultural institutions, Denver proves that it is not just any city, but a cosmopolitan city, which is not for nothing regularly at the top of the lists of cities with the highest quality of life in the USA. This is also ensured by the Denver Botanic Gardens, 93,000 m² in size, which not only showcase fascinating nature but also concerts. And in Red Rocks Park, close to the city, you can discover not only the eponymous elevations, but also the nationally known Red Rocks Amphitheatre, where world-famous live recordings by U2, Neil Young, The Moody Blues and the Dave Matthews Band were made.

Mesa Verde National Park in Colorado, Image: Sopotnicki / shutterstock

The Denver region is also home to the city of Boulder, where Stephen King once lived to write The Shining (1977). His famous novel The Stand (1978) is also set in the region. Like Denver, Boulder is known for its local quality of life: If you visit the city, you can not only stroll and shop in the city center, but outside the city center is a natural landmark. About 70 miles south, easily accessible from Denver, is Colorado Springs. Some of the most beautiful sights in the US state unfold around the city. Most notably, the Garden of the Gods is a public park that stands out with its distinctive geological shapes. At the gates of Colorado Springs sits Pikes Peak, at 4,300 meters the highest elevation of the southern Rocky Mountains. In the right weather conditions, the Pikes Peak Highway is one of the fascinating routes in the region – with breathtaking panoramas.

Colorado National Parks – From the Rocky Mountains to Mesa Verde

As Pikes Peak, Garden of the Gods, and Red Rocks Park prove, Colorado is not only an urban paradise, but also a natural one. The best proof of this are Colorado’s national parks: Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park and Great Sand Dunes National Park unfold here. But probably the most famous two are the Rocky Mountain National Park and the Mesa Verde National Park. With millions of annual visitors, the Rocky Mountains National Park attracts by far the most tourists from Colorado’s natural regions. It can be reached northwest of Boulder, which provides more reasons to visit the small town north of Denver. The national park covers an area of about 1,075 km², and there is hardly a better place to experience the Rocky Mountains. More than 110 mountain peaks break through the 3,000-metre mark here. The breathtaking panorama of the national park has already inspired quite a few visitors. Not only gigantic mountains unfold here, but also distinctive forest areas and lakes.

Since 1978, the Mesa Verde National Park has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which forms a good contrast to the Rocky Mountains with its plateau landscapes and archaeologically significant sites. Unlike the Rocky Mountains, the Mesa Verde can be discovered in southwestern Colorado. The park is closely linked to the cultural history of the Anasazi, who lived in the Mesa Verde region between the 5th and 14th centuries AD – before the European settlement of North America. The so-called Cliff Dwellings – about 600 rock dwellings that were once settled by the historical cultures of the region – provide culturally and historically significant evidence. One of the largest and most famous is the Cliff Palace in Montezuma County, the southwesternmost region of Colorado. The settlement is to be built between the 12. and the It was built in the 13th century – and is a breathtaking monument to indigenous North American history. The Mesa Verde National Park underlines the long cultural history of the state of Colorado. From livable cities like Denver or Boulder to the Rocky Mountains or the Mesa Verde – Colorado has a whole spectrum of tourist experiences to offer

Wernigerode – Short break in the Harz Mountains

Germany

PatrickJullien

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2. February 2022

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Wernigerode – Short break in the Harz Mountains

Wernigerode, the colourful town in the Harz Mountains. This saying, coined by Hermann Löns, is still the motto of the city today. Located in the middle of the Harz Mountains, Wernigerode is not just colourful, but above all a state-approved resort. Generations of Germans and travellers from abroad have used the wonderful air in the Harz Mountains to recover from the exertions of their holidays. Even today, the city is still one of the absolute highlights of Saxony-Anhalt and invites you to take a short break in the Harz Mountains.

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The short break in the Harz Mountains

Wernigerode Castle, Perekotypole / shutterstock

The Harz Mountains are one of the areas of Germany that are known to almost everyone by name, but where most people have actually never been. The Central Mountains of the Federal Republic of Germany not only attract with an impressive history and many sights, but of course above all with great nature and many opportunities for relaxation and distance from everyday life. The possibilities for hiking in the Harz Mountains alone are known far beyond the fans of the sport. So if you have never been to the Harz Mountains – Wernigerode is just one of many destinations that are worthwhile for a short holiday.

However, the city of Wernigerode is without a doubt one of the best opportunities for a first great impression of the Harz Mountains, the cities and the people. With its old town and the many historic buildings, you always have something for the eye. The motto “The colorful city” plays a very special role. It quickly becomes apparent that the buildings around the market square are painted in a wide variety of colors, that colorful decorations play an important role in the city and that the gray North German weather has no chance to dampen the mood here. The city lives the motto and that is noticeable in the first few minutes you walk through the city.

What should you see in Wernigerode?

Wernigerode has completely adapted to the tourists who move in here all year round. Especially in winter, the city centre is a festival of lights, as the local Christmas market is also known beyond the borders of the region and of course has its own charm, especially in the shadow of the many historic buildings. So if you want to go to the Harz Mountains for a short holiday, you should look around, especially in autumn and winter. However, the cultural events are spread throughout the year. Especially on Walpurgis Night, the Harz Mountains come to life with the legends about the witches and many events, celebrations and dances accompany the event.

In general, the city center is worth a visit. Not only are most of the shops and restaurants to be found here, the old houses around the market square still bear witness to the fact that the city has a long history. The market square has existed in this form since the late 16th century and has only undergone some restorations after the war. Another testimony to the former importance of this area is the Wernigerode Castle. It can be visited all year round and not only cuts a fine figure in winter, as it towers over the Harz Mountains and with its considerable towers makes a wonderful motif for postcards.

The “smallest house”, a beautiful old half-timbered house, which is particularly known for its small size, is just as worthwhile a visit as the aviation museum of Wernigerode. All in all, there is a lot on offer in the city in terms of culture, music and gastronomy. You shouldn’t have ended your short holiday in Wernigerode without having been to one of the quaint restaurants of the small town at least once, which have wonderful cuisine from the heart of Germany on their menus.

Activities and overnight stays during a short break in Wernigerode

Town Hall of Wernigerode, Image: lunamarina / shutterstock

Hardly any other area in Germany invites you to so many activities as the Harz Mountains. If you decide to take a short break in the region, it always depends on the season. In winter, you are quickly above the snow line and find some interesting ski regions in the Harz Mountains, where you can enjoy winter sports with all its facets, especially in the depths of winter. However, you are not limited to skis or toboggans, but can enjoy the beautiful landscape on a hike and let the Harz Mountains work their magic on you. Of course, this is even better in autumn and spring, when the Harz Mountains show their green side and the vast forests on the mountains combine with folklore and the many sagas and legends associated with this region of Germany.

When it comes to accommodation, holidaymakers in the Harz Mountains actually have it quite easy. There are many offers in Wernigerode itself – with a little luck you can even spend the night right next to the historic town hall. Otherwise, tourism here has adapted to the many holidaymakers and offers overnight stays in all forms and for all price ranges, from spa hotels to simple overnight stays for winter sports enthusiasts.

Getting married in Mallorca

PatrickJullien

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2. February 2022

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The Balearic island is not only popular as a holiday destination: the easy journey paired with guaranteed sunshine and fantastic locations for every taste have made Mallorca one of the most popular wedding locations for German couples. And they can benefit locally from the strong infrastructure and countless German-speaking service providers. So the wedding under palm trees does not have to be more expensive than at home.

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Wedding abroad – what should be considered?

A civil wedding is out of the question for most couples from Germany, as at least one spouse must have registered his or her residence in Spain. The compulsory portion of the marriage therefore often takes place at home. For the freestyle, however, Mallorca offers everything you could wish for. It doesn’t matter whether it’s a Catholic, Protestant or free wedding. In Mallorca, everything is possible in German and the organization is often easier than you think.

Free wedding ceremony

Unsurprisingly, the most common variant of the ceremony is the free wedding ceremony. This is the only way to celebrate the wedding at any location and is not dependent on a church or chapel. Those who get married in Mallorca usually prefer to enjoy the sun and sea. In addition to event locations or restaurants on the coast, your own (rented) finca is the ideal place for a romantic wedding ceremony.

The finca as a wedding location

In contrast to many other options, you have often already booked the accommodation and do not have to worry about renting a room. Especially in the center of the island you will find an inexhaustible selection of holiday homes, which offer a perfect backdrop for the wedding ceremony with garden and view. The large array of decorations is not necessary here. From rustic to ultra-modern, there is a suitable finca for every taste if you start planning early enough.

The cost of a wedding in Mallorca

The wedding budget is always one of the most important factors in planning. But if you do it right, you don’t have to spend more on your dream wedding on the island than you would for a comparable service in Germany. It is advisable to draw on the experience and network of local experts – although a separate wedding planner is not necessarily required in Mallorca. Lukas P. Schmidt has chosen Mallorca as his adopted home as a wedding photographer and has been living and working on the island all year round for many years. In his experience, wedding planning in Mallorca is much easier than many bridal couples initially fear. The photographer has some important tips for this:

The right time of year to get married in Mallorca

Mallorca also has a wedding season – and it hardly differs from the domestic one for German couples. From May to October, by far the most weddings take place on the island. But many couples do not consider that summer in Mallorca in swimming shorts and bikini is something different than in an elegant three-piece suit or wedding dress. With a wedding ceremony in the afternoon at well over 30 degrees, you are not doing yourself or your guests any favors. The siesta of the locals is between 2 and 6 p.m. for a reason. Especially in autumn or spring, you save on travel costs instead and have a larger selection of accommodation available than in the high season. The 300 days of sunshine in the Balearic Islands also provide the right atmosphere outside of July and August.

The best island regions for a wedding

Wedding in Mallorca — The church of Sant Bortomeu, Image: schoppino / shutterstock

When it comes to Mallorca, many people first think of beach and sea. But the tourist strongholds such as Cala Ratjada are of course fully booked in summer. Romantic coastal flair hardly comes up anymore. Instead, things are much more relaxed in the interior and guests will thank you if they don’t have to drive for hours from the airport. Whether Sóller in the west or around the island’s capital Palma de Mallorca: You will find the best conditions for your wedding where the beach holidaymakers are a little further away.

Find a service provider for the wedding abroad

Whether flower decoration, DJ, catering or wedding photographer: the best service providers can be found almost everywhere directly on site. Benefit from the network of local experts and local knowledge and save yourself the expensive travel costs: In Mallorca you will find a large selection of German-speaking professionals for every service, who know exactly what works on site.

The honeymoon is booked at the same time

One of the great advantages of getting married on your own finca: After the wedding, you are already on your honeymoon. In the high season, minimum bookings of several days are common for all accommodations, so that the wedding location can also be used immediately. If you want, you can accommodate the family for the weekend and have perhaps the most relaxed wedding process ever: From your own bedroom only a few steps to the wedding ceremony – and the next morning start your honeymoon with a dip in the pool!

Samaná – Dreamlike beaches, like from a picture book

PatrickJullien

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1. February 2022

0

Samaná – Dreamlike beaches, like from a picture book

Many people only know the Caribbean from television. White beaches, crystal clear waters, palm trees as far as the eye can see and locals who embody a great attitude to life. But if you want to experience the Caribbean feeling up close, if you want to take endless walks on dazzling beaches with crystal clear water, you have to travel to the Samaná peninsula, which is located in the Dominican Republic , without ifs and buts. This place is like a paradise on earth, because it combines everything you imagine under the term “Caribbean”. But the beach and the unique panorama are by no means all that Samaná has to offer. Which excursions should you consider, what other sights are there to marvel at? What should you definitely see? We’ll be happy to tell you!

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Experience humpback whales face to face

Humpback whale off the Samana Peninsula, Image: Jenya_TarasoF / shutterstock

Surely you have been allowed to watch whales in various documentaries or films. What if you could see these giants of the seas right in front of you and observe them in their natural habitat? Admittedly, it is a reverent and at the same time overwhelming feeling. They will feel very small, even trivial in the face of these huge and majestic animals. To be more precise, these are humpback whales. The marine mammals, which weigh up to 30 tons, raise their offspring annually in the gentle waters off Samaná.

Every day you can book excursions to go out to sea with locals and then watch the impressive whales and their offspring. It is important that animal welfare is also taken into account here, because the number of excursions is deliberately limited. This ensures that the animals can enjoy sufficient peace and quiet and are not constantly besieged by tourists. In addition to this extraordinary experience, there are also wonderful panoramas to see on the excursion. If you decide to take this tour, it is best to book early, as the excursions are often fully booked. After all, who can claim to have stood a few meters next to a live whale?

Los Haitises, the mountain landscape

The largest national park in the Dominican Republic, Los Haitises, is over 1600 km² in size and knows how to impress with many aspects. Here you will experience untouched nature in the form of caves, monstrous rock formations and pristine forests. This also expresses the residents’ striving for sustainability and environmental protection. Less and less plastic is being used, nature should be preserved and promoted in the best possible way, and species protection is also included. Incidentally, the animals also feel this, because endangered species seek their retreat here on the many karst islands. Speaking of extinct: Parts of the well-known film series “Jurassic Park” were filmed right here. So you can walk where the robbers of prehistoric times hunted in the film, what an experience! Feel nature as it should be and let yourself be sprinkled by the wondrous and mystical atmosphere.

Even more cinematic views

Cayo Levantado ,Bacardi, Samana — Cayo Levantado, known as Bacardi Island, Image: Nikolay Antonov / shutterstock

The town of Cayo Levantado became really famous through a commercial. The original name is hardly known outside the Dominican Republic, because the place is better known as Bacardi Island. Why the name was given is basically self-explanatory, because a few years ago a commercial of the beverage manufacturer was filmed there. The drink has always been associated with white beaches, clear water and the beautiful panorama.

Since the place is relatively small and yet offers everything, including a magnificent flora and fauna, it is one of the most popular destinations for tourists. Cayo Levantado makes you feel like you’re on a deserted island, in an unspoiled paradise that you only know from stories. When you travel to Samaná, the inspiring Bacardi Island should never be left out, or you’ll regret it!

Amazing waterfalls

When it rains in the Dominican Republic, it is usually short and heavy. Long rain showers with a few litres per square metre are rare here. On the Samaná peninsula, it rains even more often than in the other parts of the Caribbean. This is an explanation of why there are so many waterfalls to admire on Samaná. After a beautiful walk through the thicket of the Dominican jungle, you will reach the most magnificent of all the waterfalls on Samaná, the waterfall “Salto El Limon”. If you stand in front of it, you can watch the water tumble down from over 40 meters.

A spectacle that leaves you speechless and robs you of your words. The water bounces with such force on the ground that it has already formed a natural basin in which the water collects. A tip: you can take a wonderful dip in the pool there and enjoy and marvel at the surrounding nature. But not only Salto El Limon, but many other, albeit smaller, waterfalls adorn the landscape. Explore these breathtaking natural spectacles and learn why Samaná is one of the most beautiful islands in the world and always worth a visit.

Result

If you want to experience a picture-perfect Caribbean atmosphere, sights like paradise and places you only know from TV, then Samaná is exactly the island you should travel to. You can expect unimagined natural spectacles, untouched places that soothe the soul and inhabitants who have the sun shining from their hearts.