All about travel

Tips for more safety: How to make your cycling holiday a success

All about travel

PatrickJullien

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25. January 2022

Tips for more safety: How to make your cycling holiday a success

If you are planning a holiday, you don’t always have to fly far or drive a car. There are many beautiful cities in Germany that can be discovered by bike during a cycling holiday. To ensure that the joy of the holiday is not clouded, safety has top priority. The traffic density is getting higher and higher. Cars clog up the cities. Cyclists are rarely taken into account. It depends on the safety of the bike and the cyclists so that the holiday remains a pleasant memory.

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Sources of danger for cyclists in urban traffic

There are numerous sources of danger for cyclists lurking in city traffic. One problem in many German cities is the lack of infrastructure for cyclists. Only rarely are cycle paths structurally separated from the road. They are only marked on the roads. Another problem is narrow but busy roads. Most accidents involving bicycles occur at intersections and junctions. Intersections are often confusing. The situation is often made even more difficult by shrubs and parked cars. Turning trucks have often led to deaths or serious injuries to cyclists. Road damage and poorly fastened edge stones pose further dangers:

Tips for more safety on the bike

With the following tips, cyclists can contribute to more safety in cities so as not to put themselves and other road users in danger. In addition to a safe bike, personal equipment is also important. The weather conditions must also be taken into account. You can find out more about bicycle safety in the free e-book “The two-wheeler in urban areas”.

The right bike helmet

Wearing a bicycle helmet should be a matter of course, as falls with a bicycle often lead to serious head injuries. Many cyclists find a helmet uncomfortable. This makes the right fit all the more important. The helmet must not be too big, otherwise the head will slide back and forth. It must also not be too small, otherwise it will constrict. The helmet must be certified according to DIN EN 1078. After about five years, the helmet should be replaced, as the material becomes porous over time. After a fall, a new helmet is also needed.

The roadworthy bicycle according to StVZO

The basic condition for an untroubled cycling holiday is a safe bicycle. Before the holiday, the bike must be checked and possibly upgraded. The equipment must include a few things:

Tail light, if possible with parking and brake light function
Category Z reflectors
Reflective strips on tire sidewalls or rims
Two yellow reflectors per pedal
Two independently acting brakes
Bright-sounding bell
Headlights, if possible with parking light function
White, forward-acting reflector that can be integrated into the headlight
Energy source, such as battery or alternator.

Safe on the road in all weather conditions

If you want to spend your holiday in Germany by bike, you are never safe from capricious weather. The different weather conditions have to be planned for. On hot days, don’t forget the sunscreen. Since the body consumes a lot of water, cyclists have to drink a lot. Sodium-containing drinks are best. Light, cool snacks are perfect for a small hunger in between.

In the dark, nothing works without good lighting on the bike. In addition, cyclists should not do without a high-visibility vest that is certified according to EN ISO 20471.

In ice and snow, the risk of falling is increased. The braking distance is extended. Less air pressure in the tires leads to better grip.

What to do in the event of a bicycle accident?

Despite all precautions, accidents can never be completely ruled out. Cyclists should keep their nerve, secure the accident site and call the police. Photos of the accident site and the vehicles involved should be taken as evidence. The names, addresses and telephone numbers of all those involved as well as the witnesses to the accident must be noted.

Protection against bicycle theft

To protect against theft, cyclists should secure their bike even if they only let it out of their sight for a short time. Stable fastening options such as lampposts are important. The safest are U-locks or chain locks. The bicycle number should be noted down so that the bike can be found more quickly in the event of theft.

Gran Canaria – a dream island for many

Spain

PatrickJullien

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24. January 2022

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What speaks for the island of Gran Canaria – Above all, the constant climate as well as the wonderful unique beaches make the island something very special for tourists and visitors. Temperatures are usually almost never less than 15 degrees Celsius and hardly more than 30 degrees Celsius, a true feel-good climate. It is not for nothing that the great island is called the island of “Eternal Spring” by many visitors.

All Canary Islands have a warm-temperate climate, and long-lasting periods of bad weather are almost non-existent. Once the sun is really covered by clouds, you only have to drive a few kilometers to the next town to enjoy sunshine and a beautiful blue sky again.

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Play del Ingles Maspalomas

Playa del Ingles, Gran Canaria — The beach of Playa del Ingles, Image: Valery Bareta / shutterstock

The white sandy beach, which is about seven kilometres long, is the most famous and also the most visited beach in Gran Canaria. It stretches from the lighthouse at El Oasis to San Agustin and impresses above all with its great and unique dune landscape. The entire landscape mentioned is under nature conservation.

This extraordinary coastal performance is the main attraction of the island. During the day, a never-ending procession of beach walkers is on the way along the shore of the sea.
The beach of Puerto Rico can boast almost never-ending sunshine. The sun is still shining here, when in Maspalomas the sun has already disappeared behind the horizon. Since this is also the case in the winter months, it occasionally happens that things can get tight in this environment. The beach is one of the most beautiful places in Gran Canaria.

Sights

Artenara is located in the middle of an almost untouched natural landscape and is the highest place in Gran Canaria. Most visitors pay a visit to the place to visit the cave church located there and get an impression of the population living there. A few people still live in the caves today.

Forest area Pinar de Tamadaba

This wooded area can be reached by car through the village of Artenara. The curvy ride is compensated by the most beautiful pine forest in Gran Canaria. Some of these tall tendrils are hung with long lichens.

The Mirador (glazed balcony) at the end of the route offers a view all the way to the coast, visitors are impressed and enthusiastic about this unique panoramic view of Gran Canaria.

Recommended routes

There are numerous different routes, a tour of the island (190 km) is recommended, which is a day trip.

Drive into the interior of the island (130 km) which leads mainly through the mountains of Gran Canaria, the time takes about half a day.

The longest route (220 km) leads through the north of the island, where participants get to know the vegetation-rich north of the island. The route is paved with winding roads, so you need a relatively long time for this excursion.

Result: These are just a few reasons and attractions that contribute to the fact that the island of “Gran Canaria” is a dream island for many people. Not to forget the hospitable locals who welcome tourists from all over the world and pamper them hospitably. Numerous restaurants cater for the physical well-being of holidaymakers.

Day trips by boat to the neighbouring islands of Tenerife, Lanzarote and Fuerteventura are also possible. Worth seeing especially on Tenerife the famous “Botanical Garden” and on Fuerteventura the incomparably beautiful sandy beach.

Peru round trip: These are the most important things to consider

Peru

PatrickJullien

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24. January 2022

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Peru round trip: These are the most important things to consider

South American Peru offers travelers a multifaceted mix of grandiose landscapes that are interspersed with testimonies of long-gone advanced civilizations. In addition, there are lively metropolises to explore Peruvian city life. The population is very warm and hospitable. Due to the diversity of the country, a round trip is a good way to see and experience as much as possible. However, there are a few important things to keep in mind.

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Organizational aspects for the success of the Peru round trip

German citizens do not need a visa for Peru if the planned stay does not last longer than three months. A passport that is valid for at least six months is required for entry. In this part of South America, the inhabitants speak the Spanish language, English is not so widely spoken. The Peruvian currency is called Nueva Sol and can be exchanged for euros in many places. When planning the round trip, the size of the country must be considered. Thus, the length of the coastline from the northern border with Ecuador to the southern end at the Chilean border is more than 3,300 km. Due to the large distances, it is a good idea to set a thematic focus for the round trip. These can be the following topics:

In the footsteps of the Incas
Trekking in the mountains
Discover historical treasures
Explore coasts and cities

The Peruvian landscapes and regions are extremely diverse, there is tropical rainforest, the high mountains of the Andes, extensive deserts and the coasts of the Pacific. To make the Peru round trip a complete success, organized tours with experienced tour guides and hiking guides are available.

Determine the type and period of the tour in Peru

Machu Picchu, Peru — Machu Picchu, Image: Bluesnaps / shutterstoclk

Peru is the original empire of the Incas, as evidenced by numerous historical buildings and monuments such as Machu Pichu and Cusco. Many of the places are located high up in the mountains and are best explored on hikes. In general, trekking is an optimal method to discover the numerous treasures in Peru. The best months for a Peru round trip are from May to September, as this is the dry season. On the other hand, a lot of rain is to be expected in the autumn and winter months, which mainly falls in the Peruvian mountain landscape. On the Peruvian coastal region, the sun shines all year round and it is pleasantly warm. If you want to go all the way up into the mountains, you have to keep in mind that altitude sickness can occur there.

Hygiene and vaccination protection

In view of the Corona pandemic, there are also certain restrictions in Peru, but these can change daily. Therefore, holidaymakers should inform themselves sufficiently before starting their trip, for this purpose the Federal Foreign Office has all the necessary data and facts ready. Apart from Covid vaccination, no other vaccinations are required, but yellow fever and hepatitis A and B are recommended. In addition, the normal vaccinations should be refreshed if they were given some time ago. Tap water is not drinking water and should not be consumed.

Result

If you pay attention to the things mentioned, you can enjoy the Peru round trip with all your senses. In an organized group trip, possible problems can be avoided.

Alonnisos – the unknown island paradise of the Aegean Sea

Greece

PatrickJullien

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23. January 2022

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Alonnisos – the unknown island paradise of the Aegean Sea

On the edge of the Sporades is the island of Alonnisos, a true natural paradise. Unspoilt beaches and a lush landscape characterize the rather unknown island, which looks back on an eventful past. The magic of the destination also lies in the fact that the island is rather sparsely populated and there are only a few small villages apart from the main town of Patitiri.

Of course, there is no airport on the idyllic island. If you choose Alonnisos as your holiday destination, you can either travel via the city of Volos or via the neighbouring island of Skiathos . Both Volos and Skiathos are served by numerous European airlines several times a week during the peak tourist season and offer a ferry connection to the island of Alonnisos. In the low season, you can travel via Athens or Thessaloniki. Even if a little longer distances have to be accepted for the journey, the effort is forgotten at the latest at the sight of the island paradise of Alonnisos.

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The magic of the magical Sporades island

Port of Alonnisos, Image: Pit Stock / shutterstock

Even the first view of Alonnisos from the ferry gives an idea that the island has a very special magic. The island’s capital Patitiri, framed by pine trees, is practically the gateway to the island paradise for travellers. Around the atmospheric harbour there are some lovely taverns and cafes from which guests can enjoy the view of the fishing and sailing boats moored in the harbour as well as the uninhabited islands of Dyo Adelfia.

The breathtaking island landscape immediately makes you want to explore and so the island with its lush flora is also a hiker’s paradise. The island, which consists mainly of limestone, is overgrown with spruce, olive, fig and almond trees. In addition, viticulture is also practiced on the sun-drenched island, so that hikers always come across romantic-looking vineyards. If you walk mindfully through nature, you can also discover numerous wild herbs on the island, which beguile with their scent.

There are also numerous myths surrounding the island. Among other things, Peleas, the father of Achilles, is said to have chosen the island at the end of the Mycenaean epoch to spend his last years there and find his final resting place here. Regardless of mythology, numerous finds prove that the island was one of the first inhabited islands in the Aegean Sea and was exposed to a wide variety of influences throughout history.

Ultimately, Alonnisos seems to take his guests into another world. The island paradise makes it possible to enjoy nature and the special silence of the island world.

Chora – a journey into the past

Anyone who explores the villages of the island quickly gets the feeling of having traveled into the past. Especially the former capital Chora, which today is also often referred to as the “old village”, is extremely worth seeing. Only 2.5 km from the new capital Patitiri, the historic streets of Chora invite you to a very special exploration tour. The narrow and winding streets of the village are lined with ancient stone houses. Small shops and boutiques characterize the place as well as cozy taverns and nice little cafés. Once built as a medieval fortress to protect pirates, the village is still surrounded by the castle walls and only accessible through two entrances. This also ensures that the “village” is completely car-free, which further underlines the historic townscape.

Alonnisos National Marine Park – Northern Sporades

Agios Dimitrios (Saint Demetrios) beach on the island of Alonnisos, Image: Pit Stock / shutterstock

With a unique combination of land and marine biotope, it is the Alonnisos National Marine Park that delights nature lovers from all over the world. The unique flora and fauna, the natural beaches and the fascinating underwater world are thus under special protection.

So it is not only wonderful to enjoy the sun on the natural beaches and refresh yourself in the crystal-clear sea, but it is also particularly worthwhile to explore the underwater world. The unique ecosystem of the Northern Sporades ensures, among other things, that the rare Mediterranean monk seals cavort here.

But the underwater world around Alonnisos also combines the beauty of nature with the myths and legends that surround the island. Thus, numerous historically valuable shipwrecks, some of which originated from the seabed, can be found on the seabed. 4. and 5th century BC originate.

Excursion tip – Pelagonisi

The northern Sporades hold some treasures and so a boat trip from Alonnisos to the island of Pelagonisi (Kyra-Panagia) is worthwhile. It is the largest uninhabited island in the archipelago. But this was not always the case and numerous finds prove that the now uninhabited island was built as early as 6,000 years BC. was settled. There is evidence that the ancient city of Alonnisos was located on the island. A testimony to the former settlement are the ruins of the Kyra Panagia monastery complex, a windmill and a historic wine press.

Culinary tips for your holiday in Alonissos

To this day, the inhabitants of Alonnisos are very conscious of tradition, which is reflected not only in the authentic places, but also in the gastronomic offer. Fresh fish should not be missing from the menu in any tavern on the island and the tasty fish dishes also convince gourmets.

Especially the traditional fish soup Kakavia is worth trying, but also delicious meat dishes prepared according to family recipes can be found in the taverns. However, local specialties also include desserts such as fauskakia or hamalia. A very special sweet called Amigdalota is also very suitable as a souvenir to extend the holiday season, at least culinarily.

Vatican City: Visiting the Pope and Precious Art Treasures

Vatican City

PatrickJullien

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23. January 2022

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Vatican City: Visiting the Pope and Precious Art Treasures

Vatican City is unique in many ways. Not only that the dwarf state, whose name would actually indicate more to be a city than a state, is the smallest state in the whole world with an area of only 0.44 square kilometers. It is also the only country that has made Latin its official language. In addition, no country in the world has fewer inhabitants than Vatican City. At the last official census in 2020, there were 932, but only 552 of them were considered citizens.

In addition, the national territory is not surrounded by a country, but only by a city, namely the Italian capital Rome. The Pope is the head of state of the dwarf state, which was built on the Vatican Hill, a 75-meter-high tuff hill. Vatican City is the only country in the world whose entire territory has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. These include St. Peter’s Basilica and the Vatican Museums, which are not located in Rome, as many people believe, but in a completely different country than Italy.

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St. Peter’s Basilica

The name St. Peter’s Basilica is only known in the German-speaking world. The Italian name San Pietro in Vaticano gives an indication of the location of the basilica. Anyone who visits St. Peter’s Basilica enters the territory of the Vatican. In addition to this outstanding fact, St. Peter’s Basilica impresses with its size. The floor area of the basilica is exactly 20,139 square meters. 20,000 people can be in the building at the same time.

Of course, not for sightseeing, but for the trade fair. If you want to take in the beauties of St. Peter’s Basilica, built between 1506 and 1626, then a visit during the viewing hours, when the streams of visitors are well channeled, is a good idea. Before you enter, you have to take a look at the dress code, because of course it is chaste in this Catholic church. In any case, the shoulders must be covered and it is best to wear long trousers or a skirt that reaches at least above the knees. Otherwise, the visit can also be denied by the staff. St. Peter’s Basilica is spanned by a striking main dome and ten small side domes, all of which can be viewed from the inside. In addition to the 778 columns, 395 statues and 44 altars are grouped under these domes. Under St. Peter’s Basilica lies the tomb of St. Peter.

In addition, there are 20 tombs and monuments of popes positioned within St. Peter’s Basilica. Taking a closer look at the interior, tourists quickly notice that a single visit to St. Peter’s Basilica will not be enough if you want to deal with all the art treasures. The domes, for example, and also the altarpieces are designed with mosaics. Anyone who has seen all the mosaics of St. Peter’s Basilica has seen a 10,000 square meter mosaic together.

The Vatican Museums with Sistine Chapel

Among other things, the Vatican Museums house most of St. Peter’s Basilica’s altarpieces. The so-called Papal Art Collection also contains a whole range of other important art treasures. Oriental antiquities from ancient Egypt and Assyria, Greco-Roman art from classical antiquity, Etruscan antiquities, early Christian and medieval art from the third to the 14th century, as well as works of art from the Renaissance to the present day. The exhibition is complemented by a well-stocked ethnological collection.

Sistine Chapel Vatican City, Image: amw213 / shutterstock

In addition, the Sistine Chapel, which is housed in the official residence of the Pope, the Apostolic Palace, is also part of the Vatican Museums. The Sistine Chapel is known for its outstanding murals depicting scenes from the life of Jesus. These include, among other things, a depiction of the Last Supper. Parts of the ceiling paintings of the Sistine Chapel show scenes from the Old Testament, which were often depicted in art and textbooks, or used, for example, for advertisements. For example, The Creation of Adam and The Fall of Man and the Expulsion from Paradise. Another part of the Vatican Museums area are the Vatican Courtyards. The courtyard of the Belvedere invites you to stroll between pines, pines, palms and cypresses. Together with the Cortile della Biblioteca, it frames the Vatican Library, which was established as early as 1475. Among other things, there are 150,000 extremely valuable manuscript volumes here.

Vatican City seen from above

Even if you may have to queue for a while, you should not miss the walk to the main dome of St. Peter’s Basilica. From there, visitors have a fantastic view over the entire Vatican and St. Peter’s Square in front of St. Peter’s Basilica. The view over the Italian capital Rome, which surrounds Vatican City, also extends far. If you are athletic, climb the 551 steps to the false roof on foot. All others can get here by elevator. However, it is really only possible to go all the way up on foot and there are still 320 steps of the ascent to the final viewing platform.

What else you should know about Vatican City

More important than anywhere else in the area is to behave appropriately in Vatican City on the one hand, but on the other hand to be aware that the crowds of people pouring into this holy place also attract a lot of dubious people. Pickpockets often try their luck in the confusing hustle and bustle, which is why you should take special care of your valuables here. By the way, if you need cash, you can also use an ATM in Vatican City, which guides you with Latin operating instructions.

Halifax – romantic port city on the Atlantic Ocean

Canada

PatrickJullien

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21. January 2022

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Halifax – romantic port city on the Atlantic Ocean

On the far eastern edge of Canada, directly on the Atlantic Ocean, lies its second smallest province: Nova Scotia. Offshore islands and a peninsula belong to the province, whose capital Halifax is located directly on the Atlantic coast. This means that it can be reached from Frankfurt Airport in barely 7 hours by plane. With less than 400,000 inhabitants, Halifax is not very large compared to other Canadian provincial capitals and has retained the charm known from romantic port towns. In addition, the Canadian city has a lot to offer with its long shipping history. As early as 1758, the construction of the first shipyard began here.

The historic harbour alone is a great attraction. On the harbour promenade, visitors can stroll comfortably along the water and explore the interesting area. A good place to start is the Canadian Immigration Museum, which deals with the history of the very many cultures in one of the largest countries on earth. Located at Pier No. 21, it was once the gateway to the country for more than 1 million people who came here as immigrants between 1928 and 1971 for a variety of reasons in the hope of a better life.

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The harbour – the hub of the city

Halifax Waterfront — Halifax waterfront, Image: Darryl Brooks / shutterstock

The harbour is undoubtedly characteristic of the city on the ocean. The harbour district has an old complex of warehouses. The trading offices and small alleys now house shops and restaurants. Small galleries and shops invite you to take a stroll here. There are also many small cafés, restaurants and bars to linger in. Something special is the “Seaport Farmers’ Market”, the oldest farmers’ market on the North American continent, which exists continuously.

Founded in 1750, it now offers over 250 vendors the opportunity to offer their fresh goods such as local wine, fruits, fish and organic vegetables. This also applies to the most extravagant seafood for which the province is world-famous, the lobster. A freshly grilled lobster is an inseparable part of a visit to Halifax. Not far from the market, visitors can expect a replica of the “Bluenose”, a schooner who became a Canadian legend and national shrine. Today, the ship can be found on the 10-cent coin in Canada as an embossing and was also already on sale as a stamp. Another ship has left its mark on the city.

The survivors of the Titanic came here in 1912 after their shipwreck. The “Maritime Museum of the Atlantic” deals with this in its exhibition about the Titanic, which is well worth seeing. Although Halifax is the capital of Nova Scotia and a metropolis, it is compact enough to be easily explored on foot. Especially in the evening it is worth a stroll, because this is where there are supposedly the most pubs in North America, converted to the number of inhabitants. Live music is the order of the day here, as the city is also full of students who go to the six local universities and want to be entertained in the evenings.

Halifax – Strategically located

Halifax is literally the “gateway to Nova Scotia”, as it is located on a headland directly in the Atlantic Ocean. The British recognized the strategically important situation early on. As early as 1749, they built the “Citadel”, a fortification of unimagined proportions, in which the British troops were accommodated. The citadel is located behind the natural harbor on the “Citadel Hill” hill and overlooks the action. This makes the star-shaped complex a popular vantage point, but also the city’s landmark. Tours with knowledgeable guides introduce visitors to the arsenal of ancient weapons. It is always fired at noon as a tradition and is an attraction for tourists. The clock tower in the old town is also an inseparable part of Halifax. The father of the English King Victoria, then commander-in-chief of the British soldiers living in Halifax, was responsible for its construction in 1803. He loved punctuality, so he put clocks on all sides of the tower so that his subordinates were always in the right place at the right time.

History and modernity in perfect combination

Halifax Clock Tower, Image: cworthy / shutterstock

If you are in downtown Halifax, you should take a look at the Anglican St. Paul’s Church. It dates back to the 18th century, making it the oldest building in the port city. It is also the oldest Protestant church in the entire country. With its old and new buildings, Halifax is therefore a city between history and modernity. Promising buildings are integrated into the historic cityscape. In 2014, the new library was built as a cubist cube. It is made entirely of glass and steel and stretches like an open atrium with its stairs and bridges over 5 piecework. A special feature is the oversized beam, which was placed across the flat roof. The library roof thus forms the axis of history between the harbour and the star-shaped citadel.

Festivals – celebrating life on the Atlantic

In the warm season, Halifax is a city of festivals. In July, there is a jazz festival, which is very popular. The homosexual movement also likes to celebrate with the “Pride Festival” with about 120,000 visitors in the port city. Underground art forms will be showcased at the Fringe Festival in August. Performances at various locations in the city surprise with wit and unusual ideas. There is even a festival for the popular lobster, the “Lobster Carnival”, which is celebrated in the Halifax area in July.

Popular Restaurants in Halifax

The Press Gang Restaurant & Oyster Bar: Located in the historic downtown, this fine restaurant offers a mix of fresh seafood and local ingredients. Specialties include raw or baked oysters and dishes such as lobster thermidor.
2 Doors Down: This casual downtown restaurant is known for classic comfort dishes with a modern twist, such as mac and cheese with lobster and fish and chips.
The Old Triangle: A lively pub in the heart of Halifax offering traditional Irish dishes such as Irish stew and fish and chips, accompanied by a selection of beers and whiskeys.
The Auction House: A popular downtown gastropub that serves an eclectic mix of dishes with international influences, including Korean fried chicken and fish tacos.
The Wooden Monkey: A restaurant that specializes in healthy and sustainable food, with a variety of vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options, as well as sustainably sourced meats and seafood.
La Frasca Cibi & Vini: An Italian restaurant in Halifax’s North End that offers traditional Italian dishes with a modern twist, including bucatini all’amatriciana and beef tenderloin carpaccio.
The Five Fishermen: A top-notch seafood-focused restaurant known for its fresh oysters, daily ceviche, and extra succulent scallops.
The Kitchen Table: An intimate restaurant behind Ratinaud’s Charcuterie in the hip North End that offers an 8-course meal with a strong French influence.
The Bicycle Thief: A popular waterfront restaurant serving Italian-inspired gourmet cuisine with an impressive selection of champagnes and fine wines.
Little Oak: An intimate wine and snack bar in Bishop’s Landing on the Halifax Waterfront, serving high-quality, locally sourced snack dishes and shared platters of rare wines and incredible craft cocktails.
The Brooklyn Warehouse: A popular local restaurant in Halifax’s West End known for its fresh, local ingredients and part of Taste Nova Scotia and the Slow Food movement.
Studio East: A trendy West End restaurant that combines Asian flavors with Nova Scotia flavors, offering a wide range of dishes including oysters, sushi, ramen, burgers, and curries.

Hotel recommendations for Halifax

The Halliburton: A cozy, upscale inn located very close to downtown. It offers a lovely restaurant and a charming atmosphere, ideal for guests looking for quiet and elegant accommodation.
Cambridge Suites Hotel Halifax: This stylish and reliable hotel is located on the edge of the city centre and offers great views of the historic Citadel. It has nice breakfast options, rooms with kitchenettes, and a rooftop terrace.
The Prince George Hotel: A clean, upscale hotel in the heart of downtown that’s known for its excellent location and service. It offers a variety of amenities, including an award-winning restaurant and an indoor pool.
DoubleTree By Hilton Halifax Dartmouth: Located in Dartmouth overlooking downtown Halifax, this hotel offers modern amenities and comfortable rooms. It is a great choice for guests who want to enjoy a view of the city.
Hampton Inn By Hilton Downtown Halifax: An updated, functional hotel located in the northern part of downtown, just steps from the historic Citadel and waterfront. The hotel offers breakfast, a fitness centre and a swimming pool.

The climate in Halifax

Month	Average maximum temperature (°C)	Average low temperature (°C)	Average rainfall (mm)	Average amount of snowfall (cm)
January	-1	-9	144	49
February	-1	-9	107	37
March	2	-5	116	24
April	8	1	115	6
May	14	6	114	0
June	19	11	108	0
July	23	15	102	0
August	23	15	107	0
September	19	11	99	0
October	13	6	124	0
November	7	1	135	6
December	2	-4	149	30

The most popular destinations in South Africa

South Africa

PatrickJullien

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21. January 2022

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The most popular destinations in South Africa

South Africa owes its attractiveness to its scenic beauty, the breathtaking biodiversity of flora and fauna and, last but not least, the attitude to life of the local population, which can be felt in many places. The landscapes of South Africa have something for every type of holiday: from lonely sandy beaches and bays to lively stretches of beach, from the red, parched soils of the Kalahari to the lush green forests along the Garden Route, from Cape Town and Pretoria on the cold Atlantic to Durban on the warm Indian Ocean, from extreme heat in the Kaaro to cool temperatures on the high Drakensberg Mountains.

#Die diverse natural conditions of South Africa create habitats for an overabundance of plants and animals. There are 16,000 species of plants, around 300 different mammals and over 830 species of birds. Africa’s national flower is the protea, an evergreen shrub with large inflorescences that cannot be found anywhere else on earth. In South Africa , it exists in over 400 forms.

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Wild South Africa

South Africa’s diversity of game reserves and national parks is the country’s main attraction, offering holidaymakers some of the continent’s most thrilling safari experiences. In the reserves, there are a wide variety of landscapes, from forests and deserts to coasts and mountains, which are home to every imaginable animal species. The so-called “Big Five” – elephant, rhinoceros, buffalo, lion and leopard – are at home in several reserves and can be observed and photographed by travellers. If you also want to see running ostriches, zebras, giraffes and wildebeests as well as cheetahs and lynxes or a herd of graceful antelopes in their natural habitat, a visit to a South African national park is worthwhile.

The world-famous “Kruger National Park”, which with an area of about 20,000 square meters is half the size of Switzerland , is one of the most popular holiday destinations in South Africa. From the dainty antelope species of the dikdiks, which is not even 50 cm tall, to the elephant colossus of 6 tons, many animals are at home here. The biodiversity is gigantic. The national park is home to around 150 species of mammals, 114 reptiles and over 500 species of birds. The 12 main camps with restaurants, shops and gas stations resemble small towns and ensure a pleasant stay of several days in the national park. Some of the most popular camps include Lower Sabie, Orpen, Letaba, Olifants, and Pretoriouskop.

During a car ride through the “Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park”, one of the oldest African wildlife reserves, travellers can, with a bit of luck, discover the endangered white rhinoceros in addition to elephants, buffaloes, cheetahs, lions and wild dogs.

Lively South Africa

Cape Town

Cape Town is one of the most beautiful cities in the world and therefore one of the most popular holiday destinations in South Africa. The oldest city in the country and the immediate surroundings offer visitors an interesting mix of colourful multiculturalism, recent history of the country, harbour feeling and shopping pleasure as well as spectacular natural formations. Founded in 1652 as a supply station for shipping, the city is located at the foot of the majestic Table Mountain. The old fort from 1666 is the oldest building in South Africa. In addition, there are a number of buildings in the Dutch colonial style to visit.

Cape Town’s landmark is the mighty Table Mountain, which travellers can easily reach by gondola. For all those who like it more sporty, about 300 hiking trails with different levels of difficulty lead from the valley station to the summit. Due to its location, about 1,500 different plants grow on the Table Mountain massif. All nature lovers can admire this extraordinary variety of plants in the Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden. One of the most popular destinations in Cape Town is the notorious prison island of Robben Island, where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned until 1982. Other highlights include the lively entertainment and strolling district “V&A Waterfront” and an organized township tour. No one knows exactly how many people really live in the townships. For those who want to understand the history of South Africa, a visit to Soweto is a must on their trip.

Johannesburg and Pretoria

Skyline Johannesburg — View of the Johannesburg skyline, Image: Nataly Reinch / shutterstock

The province of Gauteng, with the two metropolises of Johannesburg and Pretoria, which are only 50 kilometres apart, is a popular holiday destination for all travellers interested in history. Here you will find important testimonies to the very eventful history of the country. The Apartheid Museum in Johannesburg is one of the most interesting and provocative museums in the world. Other sights include the Nelson Mandela Bridge, Museum Africa and the reconstructed old gold mining town of Gold Reef City. South Africa’s capital Pretoria fascinates with magnificent avenues, imposing government buildings, historical sights and a variety of interesting museums. Highlights include the impressive Union Buildings complex, the Pretoria Art Museum and Church Square Park with the Palace of Justice and the Kruger Museum.

Sporty South Africa

The Golden Mile, Durban — View of the “Golden Mile” of Durban, Image: Alexandre G. ROSA / shutterstock

In South Africa, there are no limits to active holidaymakers. With almost 3000 km of coastline, the country offers plenty of opportunities for all kinds of water sports. Although the Atlantic Ocean is too cold for swimming, there are also some magnificent beaches in the Cape region. From Cape Agulhas eastwards, the Indian Ocean with its warmer sea water invites you to swim and bathe. In the province of KwaZulu-Natal and especially on the Garden Route there are beautiful sandy beaches.

The city of Durban, with its wide sandy beaches and beautiful lakeside promenade, is a popular holiday destination for all swimmers and sun worshippers. The South African coast offers a diverse habitat for marine animals and is therefore a diver’s paradise. Dives to the coral gardens of Aliwal Shoal and Sodwana Bay in KwaZulu-Natal, to the kelp forests and wrecks around the cape, as well as whale watching, lagoon diving around Knysna are unique experiences. Brave divers can get up close and personal with great white sharks in a cage. South Africa is considered a surfing hotspot. The best surfing areas are the coasts of Jeffrey’s Bay and Durban.

On foot, by bike or on horseback, holidaymakers can explore the country. There are countless hiking routes. Going on a walking safari with an armed ranger in the “Kurger National Park” is exciting and an unforgettable adventure. There are various mountain bike trails throughout the country, even in some national parks. Riding enthusiasts will get their money’s worth on the beaches of the Cape Province and in the Drakensberg Mountains. With some local providers, you can also book horseback safaris in wildlife sanctuaries.

The sky-high Drak Mountains on the border with Lesotho are particularly popular with hiking enthusiasts. Here, sporting activity can be wonderfully combined with unique nature experiences. The “uKhahlamba-Drakensberg Park” comprises a total of 12 nature reserves with a total area of almost 2,500 square kilometres. During hikes through the fascinating natural landscape with imposing mountain giants over 3,000 m high, the second highest waterfall in the world, discreet mountain lakes, holidaymakers are offered magnificent views and even ancient cave paintings

The most beautiful holiday destinations in the Black Forest

Germany

PatrickJullien

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21. January 2022

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The most beautiful holiday destinations in the Black Forest

For some, the Black Forest may remind them of a fairytale landscape. The atmosphere in this low mountain range is above all quiet and tranquil. Tourists discover wooded heights and dreamy valley landscapes with waterfalls, rivers and numerous bathing lakes, an ideal destination for hiking enthusiasts. But winter sports fans will not miss out here either. On the Feldberg, and another 70 mountains of up to 1,493 meters altitude, you can ski in winter.

In addition, the region attracts with traditional handicrafts. Who doesn’t know the world-famous cuckoo clocks, which are still made in filigree handicraft in the Black Forest today? If you like sweets, you can’t get past the Black Forest cake, which was also invented here. The Black Forest is therefore a holiday region that promises relaxing holidays all year round. And if you like culture, this is the right place for you, because cities such as Freiburg im Breisgau, Baden-Baden or Villingen-Schwenningen have high-ranking art museums and first-class architectural sights.

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Discover and hike in the Black Forest in summer

Titisee, Black Forest — Titisee-Neustadt in the Black Forest, Image: Oscity / shutterstock

The Black Forest is one of the most popular hiking regions in all of Germany. The region is known for a wide network of hiking trails that meet all requirements. Multi-day hikes can be undertaken here just as well as day tours that are suitable for the whole family. The Black Forest-Swabian-Alb-Allgäu Trail, for example, is a 311-kilometer long-distance hiking trail that leads from Pforzheim through the northern Black Forest. In the southern Black Forest, the 1,415-metre-high Herzogenhorn beckons. The mountain is located on the grounds of the Feldberg nature reserve and can be climbed via a wide variety of well-signposted hiking routes. In good weather, you can see as far as the French Vosges from the summit.

If you are more in the mood for swimming, visit the Feldsee or the Titisee in summer. The Feldsee is the highest lake in Germany. It is located 1,109 meters above sea level. By car, you can get up to a maximum of four kilometers to it. The rest of the way you have to walk. On the other hand, the surrounding nature is picturesque and untouched. A walking and mountain biking route leads around the lake. Lake Titisee is located at an altitude of 845 metres and is particularly popular with families. Because the Titisee can be explored with pedal boats and excursion boats. Anglers also like to visit Lake Titisee, as it has a rich population of lake trout, eels, pike, zander and other lake fish.

Nearby is the Wutach Gorge, which is nicknamed the Grand Canyon of the Black Forest. On a 30-kilometre area, whitewater canoeists, hikers and nature lovers meet. About 2,800 plant species can be discovered here, including more than 40 different species of orchids. The gorge also attracts bird and butterfly watchers. Furthermore, the many waterfalls and shell limestone walls of the Wutach Gorge are fascinating.

Snow adventure in the Black Forest

With the Feldberg, Hinterzarten and Todtnau, the Black Forest has several winter sports centres to offer, where World Cup competitions in ski jumping, cross-country skiing and alpine skiing take place. However, the vast majority of winter sports enthusiasts on site are amateurs. Many hiking routes are also accessible as winter hiking routes. Some are also converted into toboggan runs after the first snowfall and enable rapid toboggan runs. If you want, you can snowshoe around the Feldberg and Todtmoss. On every corner there are also wellness offers such as saunas and thermal and mineral baths, where you can relax after icy snow days. The Christmas markets are romantic. Almost every place in the Black Forest has its own. Covered in deep snow, they attract visitors with the scent of mulled wine, gingerbread and regional handicrafts. In addition to the obligatory cuckoo clocks, there are also handmade Christmas tree baubles from local glassblowing workshops to buy, for example.

Popular city trips to the Black Forest

Architecture and culture in Freiburg im Breisgau

Panoramic view of Freiburg, Image: Sina Ettmer Photography / shutterstock

Freiburg im Breisgau is a real tourist magnet. This is not surprising once you have taken a walk through the historic old town. Narrow alleys are lined with traditional half-timbered houses, while the Freiburger Bächle makes its way through the city. In the Middle Ages, the artificially created stream served as a fire water supply.

Today he seems mainly charming. You should definitely visit the Freiburg Cathedral and the Münsterplatz. The cathedral was built between 1200 and 1513 in Romanesque, Gothic and late Gothic styles. The stained glass windows of the church building are particularly beautiful to look at. Münsterplatz is home to some medieval architectural beauties such as the Alte Wache and the Historisches Kaufhaus from 1520. With the Martinstor and the Schwabentor, there are still two magnificent gates of the former city fortifications that have been preserved. Freiburg is also known as a theater city. There are more than ten professional stages in Freiburg. These are supplemented by countless improv theatre and amateur play groups.

Baden-Baden as a city of art

The old residential city of Baden-Baden became famous above all for its casino and its tradition as a spa town. But there are many more highlights to discover here. After all, the museums in Baden-Baden attract art lovers from all over the world. In the Staatliche Kunsthalle, temporary exhibitions are shown that deal with the current trends in contemporary art. The Museum Frieder Burda exhibits paintings, sculptures and graphics by renowned artists of the 20. and 21st century. Among them are works of art by August Macke, Mark Rothko, Pablo Picasso and Georg Baselitz.

Clock tradition in Villingen-Schwenningen

The Black Forest is not only known for its precise clock craftsmanship because of the cuckoo clock. High-quality watches have been manufactured in the region for centuries. In the Schwenningen Museum of Local History and Clocks, you can follow how Black Forest clocks are built in a traditional watch workshop.

Victoria – the picturesque capital of the Seychelles

Seychelles

PatrickJullien

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20. January 2022

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Victoria – the picturesque capital of the Seychelles

On the northeast coast of the rocky Seychelles island of Mahé lies the capital of the island state, which is well worth seeing. Founded in 1778 by French settlers, the city with just 25,000 inhabitants has retained its special charm to this day. After the Anglo-French War in 1814, the British gained control of the Seychelles and in honor of the queen, the city was named Victoria.

To this day, the most diverse influences are omnipresent in Victoria. This makes the city a real gem, because neon signs and the like are not to be found in the capital. There are just two traffic lights in the picturesque city, which inspires its visitors with its numerous sights and unique flair.

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Victoria’s classic attractions

Hindu Temple Victoria Arulmihu Navasakti Vinayagar — Arulmihu Navasakti Vinayagar Hindu Temple in Victoria, Image: Reiner Conrad / shutterstock

Victoria is mainly characterized by buildings and residential buildings from the early 20th century. Colourful facades, varied architecture and palm-lined streets create a special picturesque overall picture. One of the classic sights is the “Cathedrale of Our Lady of Immaculate”, which was built in 1892 and can be found on a small hill on the outskirts of the city. The sacred building, which is well worth seeing, is surrounded by a well-kept garden. Right next to the cathedral is the two-storey priest’s residence from 1934.

No less worth seeing is the Clock Tower, which is located in the middle of an intersection. This was erected in 1903 by the English governor in honour of the Queen and strikes twice on the hour. But not only the Clock Tower is a reminder of the rule of the British, but also the State House. The former governor’s residence is surrounded by a lush garden and is now used as a presidential residential and office building.

An absolute highlight is the National Botanical Garden. This was founded in 1901 and covers 10,000 m². With over 500 plant species, including 150 species of orchids, the green jewel inspires its visitors. Special highlights such as the natural cloud forest and a large enclosure with Aldabra giant tortoises provide unforgettable impressions.

If you want to learn more about the history and development of the city, you should definitely head for the National Cultural Centre.

Victoria’s unusual sights

Little-big-ben-seychelles, Mahe — The Little Big Ben in Victoria, the capital of the Seychelles. Image: dvoevnore

Victoria not only shines with classic sights, but there are also some extraordinary sights to be found in the dreamlike city. Particularly impressive and symbolic is the Bicentennial Monument, which was erected in 1978 for the 200th anniversary of the founding of the Monument. Birthday of the city. Designed by the Italian artist Lorenzo Appiani, the monument consists of three wings, which stands for the different roots of the inhabitants of the Seychelles. The wings stand for the continents of Asia, Africa, Europe and the resulting multicultural mix that characterizes Victoria.

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The Bel Air Cemetery also takes its visitors back in time and bears witness to the fact that people from all over the world were drawn to Victoria. The historic cemetery with its dilapidated gravestones and memorial plaques is one of the oldest surviving places of worship in the Seychelles and still commemorates the first citizens of the city.

Many visitors to the city are surprised by the small Arul Mihu Navasakthi Vinayagar temple complex. The magnificently designed temple was built in 1992 and is an absolute eye-catcher and testifies to the fact that around 5,000 Hindus live in Victoria. But not only the temple complex surprises, but also the small mosque with its gilded dome, which serves as a meeting place for the Muslim community of Victoria.

Shopping in Victoria

Sir Selwyn Selwyn Clarke Market, Victoria — Sir Selwyn Selwyn Clarke Market, Image: Luca Pape / shutterstock

The historic “Sir Selwyn Selwyn Clarke Market” is a fantastic location. In 1840, estates were established by the French governor. Since then, farmers and fishermen have offered their goods for sale on the market square. To this day, visitors to the market can buy fresh fruit, vegetables and fish from the colourful stalls. But spices, clothing, leather goods, baskets, carvings and handicrafts are also offered for sale at the stalls. After shopping, a small café invites you to linger directly on the market square.

Victoria culinary

Bicentennial Monument Victoria — Bicentennial Monument , Image: bumihills / shutterstock

Of course, the multicultural city is also international in the field of cuisine. It is recommended to discover Creole cuisine for yourself. But restaurants with Asian, French and international cuisine can also be found in Victoria. If you don’t necessarily want to eat in a restaurant, you can try the wide range of street food. Not only is street food much cheaper than going to a restaurant, but delicious specialties are freshly prepared at the stalls in the streets of the city, so that even gourmets are enthusiastic about the fast cuisine. Also recommended are the street stalls, which offer fresh and tasty fruit as a snack. But you can also enjoy a delicious cocktail in the quiet city, because in the harbour area there are some beautiful restaurants where you can end the evening in a pleasant way.

The most popular destinations in Spain

Spain

PatrickJullien

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20. January 2022

0

On the map, the Kingdom of Spain spreads out like a bullskin between neighboring France and Portugal. With its thousands of kilometres of coastline, the country is one of the most popular travel destinations. But beyond the bathing fun in the sunshine and the party hustle and bustle in the tourist hotspots, the big country on the Iberian Peninsula has much more to offer: the endless Meseta in the center, the massif of the Sierra Nevada, a unique culture and hospitable people.

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Viva la Vida! Long live life!

It is probably due to the mild climate that life in Spain takes place much more outdoors than behind closed doors. Popular meeting places are the small bar or the next plaza, where you can enjoy delicious tapas with wine or sherry. Because fried small fish, homemade croquettes, small, fresh salads and pickled olives are always worth a sin.

So the time is evaluated differently in this country, impatience and hectic are foreign to most Spaniards – and so the endless number of Spanish sights only become a sightseeing delight with the necessary leisure.

From the green north to the hot south

Barcelona, Place d'Espanya — The Place d’Espanya in Barcelona, Image: Marco Rubino / shutterstock

The north of the country does not correspond to the cliché of heat-shimmering Spain at all: Refreshing rain from the Atlantic allows the famous wine of La Rioja to thrive magnificently in the hinterland. To the northwest runs the centuries-old route of the pilgrims of St. James, along the way of which there are ravishingly simple Romanesque church buildings and particularly magnificent Gothic cathedrals. The Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao , on the other hand, provides a fascinating counterpoint.

Catalonia in Spain’s northeast attracts visitors to the Costa Brava and the Costa Daurada with its dream beaches and rocky bays. The most dazzling personality in Catalonia is considered to be the eccentric Salvador Dalí, to whom a bizarre museum in Figueres is dedicated.

With its avant-garde scene, the city of Barcelona presents itself as a unique capital of creatives, which always sets accents with art, architecture, design and new fashion. In addition, the built fantasies of Antoni Gaudí, huge shopping streets and a glittering nightlife make Barcelona a top travel destination.

To the south follows the Levante, a sun-drenched Garden of Eden. Lemons and oranges, almond trees, rice and sugar cane grow here. Vegetable gardens and orchards round off the opulent array of green delicacies. Beach fun and water sports of all kinds are possible on the long sandy beaches of the popular Costa Blanca and the Costa del Azahar. Incidentally, the Levante is the home of Spanish paella, the Spanish national dish with cult status.

The heart of Spain, great passion and southern temperament

View of Seville, Image: LucVi / shutterstock

Proud Castile is considered the cradle and heart of the Spanish kingdom. There, austere beauty dominates the wide, rugged meseta, where on every hill sits a fortified fort from the time of the Reconquista, in which Christians and Moors fought for every meter of land. Toledo, Avila, Segovia and Salamanca are ancient cities that house unique artistic treasures within their walls.

On the other hand, the tireless Spanish capital Madrid is not only idolized by night owls, but Madrid also shines with world-renowned museums such as the Prado. Here the visitor sees the masterpieces of Goya, Velázquez, Murillo, Zurbarán and El Greco. With the Centro de Arte Reina Sofía and the Thyssen-Bornemisza Collection, a golden triangle of art has been established here, which virtually overwhelms with the abundance of classical and contemporary art on offer.
Andalusia, the enchanting south of the country, stands for passion and temperament. This is where people live and celebrate particularly intensively. Flamenco is considered the voice of Andalusia: rough and throaty, it brings out the innermost part of the Spanish soul in staccato. Some sherry, along with olive oil the export hit of the south, oils the strained singing voices.

Visitors are magnetically attracted to both Granada’s Alhambra and the Umayyad Mosque of Córdoba, both shining highlights of Hispano-Muslim culture. Eight centuries of Arab dominance have created rich art treasures and a centre of scientific development of their time between Sierra Morena and Gibraltar .

The lively Seville with its art-historical buildings provided the appropriate templates for world-famous opera works such as “Don Juan” or “Carmen”. In addition, the mountains in the hinterland, including the snow-white villages, promise special travel impressions.
The Costa del Sol with its sunshine guarantee is also very popular with holidaymakers, while strong winds blow on the Costa de la Luz that make surfers’ hearts beat faster.

Far from the beaches

Away from the beaches stretches the sparsely populated Extremadura. Many Spanish conquerors were at home here, who built grandiose cities such as Cáceres or Trujillo after their long journeys, whose stately palaces now function as stone archives of bygone times. Many remains from Roman times testify to the fact that Mérida was once the shining centre of the Roman province of Lusitania. Nature lovers will be amazed by both the unspoiled landscape and the birdlife in the Parque Natural de Monfragüe.

Spain beckons

Cala Saona, Formentera — Turquoise blue water at Cala Saona beach on Formentera, Image: D.Bond / shutterstock

The Spanish kingdom is known to have numerous islands in the Atlantic and Mediterranean Seas. They stand for the beauty of nature, relaxation and great holiday fun. The Balearic Islands are among the most popular islands, in addition to Mallorca and Ibiza, Formentera and Menorca are among them. The mild climate with around 300 days of sunshine every year and the beautiful beaches make Spain’s island world a first-class travel destination. The Canary Islands archipelago is located in the azure Atlantic southwest of Morocco and is already part of Africa, both geographically and climatically. In addition to larger islands such as Fuerteventura, Gran Canaria, Lanzarote and Tenerife, the somewhat smaller ones such as La Palma, La Gomera and El Hierro also await holidaymakers seeking relaxation. The Canary Islands are particularly attractive to nature lovers and sports enthusiasts – hikers and surfers in particular enjoy their holidays there.

Whether mainland or islands: the lure of all these charms made Spain one of the most popular travel destinations. The bathing strongholds of the Mediterranean coast are high on the popularity scale. However, if you want to get to know the numerous colourful facets of Spain in more detail, you should also explore the interior, where hospitality is very important and an independent art with numerous treasures, which are sometimes a little further away and want to be found, provide unique impressions.