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Heligoland: Germany’s only offshore island

Patrick Jullien
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Heligoland: Germany’s only offshore island

Heligoland is a nature-rich island in the North Sea that offers a lot of relaxation. A beautiful sandy beach, restaurants and cafes contribute to relaxing on Germany’s only offshore island. Well-developed hiking trails and quiet places for bird watching are interesting for nature lovers. In addition, there are numerous sights and sports facilities that provide plenty of action, culture and adventure.

The following article shows what else the island on the German Bight has to offer and what insider tips there are.

This is what makes Heligoland so special

Deät Lun is Frisian for Heligoland. The island in the German Bight is Germany’s only offshore island and consists of the main island and the dune. To get to the dune, a short crossing is necessary.

Heligoland looks back on a long history: Due to the New Year’s flood in 1721, the island is divided in two. In 1947, the British Allies blew up the military installations. Since then, the island has been demilitarized.

A real highlight is the journey with the famous seaside resort ships. The passengers are taken from the large ships to the smaller Börte boats. The so-called disembarkation is very popular and provides a lot of fun. The white Börte boats are then moored at the harbour, where it is particularly romantic in the evening: The sunset is a beautiful highlight of a Heligoland trip, which is free of charge and at the same time will be remembered for a long time.

The best time to travel to Heligoland is from May to September. Then the temperatures rise to a pleasant 20 degrees Celsius. The water temperature is around 18 to 21 degrees Celsius and the quality is very clean.

The journey to Heligoland

The journey to Heligoland always takes place by sea. This can be done in an hour by ferry from Cuxhaven: a catamaran takes passengers safely to their destination.

Other ferry piers that depart for Heligoland are located in Hamburg-Wedel, Büsum or Bremerhaven. A journey from Hamburg takes around three and a half hours.

Cars and bicycles are prohibited on the island, which is why only pedestrians are allowed on the ferries. Dogs are welcome on the island and find enough space on signposted beach sections.

If you prefer a quick journey, you should rely on a light aircraft. The flight with a private airline from Cuxhaven takes about 20 minutes and leads to the only landing site on the dune.

To get to the ferry docks, it is possible to arrive by plane, car or train. There are plenty of parking options on site, which are subject to a fee. To save money, the free park-and-ride parking lots are suitable, which are located just outside.

Sights of the offshore island and the surrounding area

Lighthouse Heligoland
Lighthouse of Heligoland, Image: Petr Kahanek / shutterstock

The landmark of the island is the Lange Anna, which is definitely worth a visit. At a height of a good 47 metres, the rock ledge made of red sandstone rises up. With a weight of 25,000 tons, the Nathurn Stak, as the rock is called in Frisian, is very imposing. Not far from there is the old lighthouse, which completely survived the Allied attack in 1947.

The colourful lobster stalls are simply part of Heligoland. The houses were once intended for the fishermen, who stored their equipment in them. Today, boutiques and other shops are located in it.

A popular attraction are the cute grey seals. They can be recognized daily in close proximity on the dune. Bathers on the beach can see from the shore how the island’s well-known inhabitants sunbathe or mate.

Equally well-known are the drum guillemots, which breed on the famous guillemot rock. The birds are almost unique on the island and an absolute highlight for birdwatchers.

From the north beach it goes up via the Jägersteig. The many steps offer a fantastic panoramic view.

These tips are worth it

  • Colorful Houses Heligoland
    The colourful houses of Heligoland, Image: Christian Horz / shutterstock

    With a trip to Heligoland, visitors save twice: One advantage is duty-free shopping on the island. This is because Heligoland is a foreign country. Nevertheless, it belongs to Germany , so all other German regulations apply.

  • To save money when booking, an early bird discount or a last-minute offer is worthwhile.
  • Although a tourist tax is levied, this ensures clean beaches, a wide range of leisure activities for families with children and discounts of all kinds. Museums, mini golf and more are thus cheaper.
  • Two beautiful sandy beaches can be found on the dune. The fine sand creates a lot of holiday atmosphere. The beaches are guarded in the high season, so swimming in the North Sea is safe. On one section there is a beautiful playground, a restaurant and sanitary facilities.
  • Although there is no longer any fresh fish in the colorful lobster stalls today, they indicate the popular dish of the locals. Lobster, sprats and halibut are very popular and can still be found on the local menus today. Freshly caught goods are best obtained directly from the cutter that arrives at the port.
  • For dessert, an egg grog is typical, which consists of rum, sugar, egg yolk and cream. Sea buckthorn grows on the cliffs, known as the lemon of the north and is full of vitamin C. Sweets, schnapps or jams can be considered as souvenirs.

Result

Heligoland is a very special island in Germany that offers beautiful vantage points. Although the only offshore island in Germany is quite tranquil, it has a dream beach and interesting sights on offer. It is worth visiting all year round to come with your family, as a single or as a couple with or without a dog

Last minute holiday – what to look out for

Patrick Jullien
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0
Last minute holiday – what to look out for

Many people are increasingly deciding spontaneously to go on vacation or fly. Sometimes you can even make a real bargain if you rely on last minute trips. But what do you have to pay attention to if you want to fly spontaneously on holiday?

Plan early or use last minute?

While some plan their vacation a year in advance and queue up early at the travel agency, some still rely on spontaneous offers. Especially at a time when the corona pandemic made travel more difficult and travel restrictions were the order of the day, last-minute trips were all the rage, because you often had to postpone or rebook your travel plans.

If you look in travel agencies or online agencies, you will actually find the best bargains for cheap package tours far in advance. Cheap offers are often bought by tour operators a year in advance, but the cheap offers are only available to a limited extent. If gone, then gone is the motto, which is why early bookers also like to plan for the long term. But more and more travel enthusiasts are relying on more spontaneous bookings, so that the tour operators are also increasingly postponing the early bird offers to the winter of the previous year.

But if you are sure where you want to go next year, you should still not wait too long and book your summer vacation for next year early. If there are any problems, you can usually rebook or cancel the trip planned in advance free of charge.

Be flexible

If you don’t have any plans for your next vacation yet and are flexible, you can still get a bargain on last minute trips. If the cheap offers have been gone for a long time, you can still get a good deal at short notice as a last-minute holidaymaker if you are not concerned about a specific destination, a certain hotel or high demands. Especially if you are open to offers that do not offer the high luxury, there are also some good travel offers in a timely manner.

What are the regulations in the destination country ?

Although the entry requirements in most countries have long since been overturned, of course you have to find out about the respective requirements even for a last-minute trip. There should therefore not be too little time between booking and departure, because often a lot has to be organized for the time of the vacation.

If the trip is planned abroad, the important identification documents must of course not be missing. If a passport has expired, it should be renewed before you decide to travel last minute, as the issuance of the passport can also take some time.

Refresh vaccination protection

Not only the corona vaccination is important if you want to travel. Other vaccinations can also be important, depending on which country the trip is to go to, holidaymakers should definitely make an appointment with their doctor to have their vaccination protection refreshed.

Check insurance

Anyone who likes to travel a lot should have travel insurance. However, what is covered in the respective insurance contract is often lost. Before leaving, it is therefore advisable to take a look at the policies and, if necessary, upgrade the insurance with new clauses so that you are protected against eventualities in the holiday destination.

Tips for a small budget

If you have already saved on your trip, you can keep your holiday budget low with other tips. For example, flights during the week are cheaper than departing on weekends, all-inclusive saves expensive food in restaurants and rooms with an extra bed are cheaper than large family rooms.

 

CEMPEDAK ISLAND – Sustainable Luxury in Indonesia

Patrick Jullien
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CEMPEDAK ISLAND – Sustainable Luxury in Indonesia

Cempedak is a unique adults-only private island that prioritizes sustainability and groundbreaking design. The twenty exceptional handmade bamboo villas for a maximum of 40 guests, has developed step by step over the years to preserve the natural habitat and wildlife. A destination for true visionaries.

If you want to make a contribution on holiday so that our future generations can also benefit from the natural beauty of our earth, Cempedak Island is the right place for you. The hotel promises holidays in its most authentic form and the philosophy of sustainability sets completely new standards that are forward-looking. Holiday memories such as the beach, sun and sea will become secondary if you take home the feeling of having made a valuable contribution to protecting our environment.

The rooms

Every guest will find a secluded idyll on the barefoot island, where sustainability and environmental friendliness are combined with luxury. The bamboo villas have been created in the country’s typical architectural design using natural materials as well as recycled materials such as driftwood, alang-alang grass or rubber wood.

Care was taken to ensure that no existing trees had to be felled. The gardens have been planted with native trees and bushes, irrigation is done with recycled water, lighting is minimal so as not to disturb nature, especially the nesting turtles, in their night’s rest. The hot water system is powered by solar energy.

There are a total of twenty Beach and Sea Villas to choose from.

The Restaurant

Ein mehrstöckiges Baumhaus mit Strohdach, das in der Abenddämmerung in warmem, sanftem Licht erstrahlt, liegt inmitten üppiger Vegetation, ist über einen Holzsteg zu erreichen und von tropischen Pflanzen umgeben.
The Dodo Bar in the evenings, Image: Cempedak Island

The hotel’s restaurant, with stunning views, serves three meals a day exclusively a la carte to reduce food waste. Food leftovers are fed to fish from the hotel’s own fish farm. Ingredients from our own production are used in the preparation of the dishes.

The menu includes homemade muesli, juices, jams, homemade bread, bar snacks, ice cream, as well as homemade syrups for soft drinks. Cempedak’s water uses its own carbonated water, which is sold in recyclable glass bottles. The coffee comes from Indonesia and is fairly traded.

Spa & Leisure

CEMPEDAK ISLAND , main pool right on the beach,
The main pool is located directly on the beach, Image: Cempedak Island

On offer are: diving, stand up paddling, yoga, tennis, windsurfing, sailing, and spa treatments. The Rock Spa is a unique oasis of peace, nestled on impressive granite rocks in an eastern mangrove bay. All three double treatment rooms have views of the sea and can relax to the sound of the ocean waves.

How to get there

The Indonesian island is located 85 km south of Singapore in the South China Sea. Cempedak is very easily accessible via Singapore International Airport. From Singapore, take a 55-minute ferry to Bintan, where a Cempedak representative will escort you to the Speed Boat Terminal and the island.

More information can be found on the hotel website.

If you love luxury travel, you should visit these places

Patrick Jullien
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0
If you love luxury travel, you should visit these places

Deserted picture-book beaches in prime locations, luxurious hotels, with a service that leaves nothing to be desired or exclusive cruises to the most beautiful places in the world. Holidaymakers who have the necessary financial means at their disposal can choose from numerous offers that meet their needs. It doesn’t always have to be long-distance trips that guarantee a first-class holiday. There are also destinations in Europe that offer pure luxury and extravagance.

Yachts St. Tropez
Luxury yachts in the harbor of St. Tropez, Image: NAPA / shutterstock

One of them is the formerly sleepy fishing village of Saint Tropez on the Cote d’Azur, which was discovered by the international film industry in the middle of the last century and has been one of the favourite destinations of the Haute Volée ever since. Where small wooden boats used to set out to fish, the largest and most expensive yachts are now anchored. Filmmakers from all over the world stroll along the harbour and stay in the town’s luxury hotels. Not far from Saint Tropez is the tiny state of Monaco. It is not only famous for its glamorous princely family or the Monte Carlo Rally , but first and foremost for the noble Casino de Monte Carlo, which has served as a film set countless times.

For more than 150 years, the world’s high society has indulged in gambling. If you don’t manage to visit this Monegasque landmark in person, you can also switch to offers on the Internet and immerse yourself in the dazzling world of online casinos. A real pleasure, because attractive chances of winning are also tempting on the net. JackpotPiraten Casino is currently on everyone’s lips, because this is the first online casino with a German license, which means that you play in a completely safe and legal environment.

In addition, JackpotPiraten offers an attractive bonus with which you can top up your customer account right at the beginning. Here you can find information on how to use the JackpotPiraten Casino bonus correctly. Although this is no substitute for a visit to the Casino de Monte Carlo, it is a pleasant alternative and a fun pastime for friends of gambling. If you prefer to combine a luxury trip with winter sports, you will get your money’s worth in St. Moritz. The Swiss Alps guarantee snow, and slopes that are ideally groomed for perfect skiing fun. In addition, glamorous luxury hotels attract high society from all over the world every year.

Orient instead of Occident

For holidaymakers looking for something special, the Orient is also at the top of the ranking. Dubai is clearly at the top of the hit list. In this metropolis of superlatives you will find the most expensive and extravagant hotels of all. Among them is the prestigious Burj al Arab. This sail-shaped building houses the only 7-star hotel in the world and is considered the landmark of the emirate. In Oman, too, a number of exquisite hotels offer a sophisticated holiday in a class of its own. Fairytale temples made of marble, gold and crystal invite you to enjoy the oriental splendour up close. If you travel there in the summer months and prefer a cooler climate, you should visit Salalah . This dry desert area turns into a colorful sea of flowers during the monsoon.

Dream beaches and luxury resorts

Alimatha, Maldives
The island of Alimatha in the Maldives, Image: Marcello Landolfi / shutterstock

People looking for the sound of the sea, crystal clear waters and endless white sandy beaches will find their holiday paradise in the Maldives. There you can even book individual islands exclusively for yourself. Alimatha is hard to beat in terms of luxury. This palm-covered island has only one resort, which is of breathtaking beauty. The Seychelles also offer turquoise blue sea and white sand. It is not for nothing that the coasts are regularly awarded as the most beautiful beaches in the world. The advertising industry also discovered this for itself and filmed the Bacardi and Raffaello commercials in La Digue , among others. Of course, the hotels and resorts of the Seychelles also charge for this beauty.

Another tip for a luxury holiday on picture-perfect beaches with magical underwater worlds is undoubtedly Bora Bora. This remote South Sea island is one of the most expensive holiday destinations in the world. If you want to experience the whole magic of this island, it is best to rent one of the exclusive water bungalows. They have glass floors and tables that allow an unobstructed view of passing rays, sharks or barracudas. Tropical holiday dreams also come true in Mauritius. There, a magnificent coral reef, exclusive hotels and numerous water sports opportunities away from mass tourism beckon.

 

 

 

 

 

 

The best tips for an unforgettable holiday in Bavaria

Patrick Jullien
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0
The best tips for an unforgettable holiday in Bavaria

Holidays in Bavaria have a lot to offer: beautiful landscapes for hiking and cycling, fairytale castles in Bavaria, magnificent old towns to marvel at and discover. Whether as a holiday in the mountains, a holiday in one of the Bavarian cities or a holiday on a farm, Bavaria is extremely diverse. Make your holiday in Bavaria an unforgettable experience! We have put together our suggestions for the most beautiful places and attractions for you and explain why if you want to rent a boat in Germany , Bavaria is ideal for it.

Visit the most beautiful castles in Bavaria

No holiday in Bavaria should be complete without a visit to the most beautiful castles. The most beautiful and well-known castles in Bavaria are:

  1. Neuschwanstein Castle: This fairytale castle is known far beyond the borders of Bavaria and even Germany .
  2. Hohenschwangau Castle: One of the most beautiful and well-known castles in Bavaria is Hohenschwangau Castle. It is located almost directly next to Neuschwanstein Castle.
  3. Würzburg Residence: The Würzburg Residence is the only one of all Bavarian castles to be a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Visit a beautiful thermal spa in Bavaria to relax

There are more than 40 thermal baths in Bavaria. The thermal baths are a popular destination for a relaxing weekend not only because of their proximity to larger cities. They can also be used for another long holiday or spa stay.

  1. Therme Erding: Just outside the Bavarian capital is the Therme Erding, which is also known as Europe’s largest thermal spa world.
  2. Therme Bad Wörishofen: Bad Wörishofen has many opportunities for rest and relaxation due to its location in the Allgäu at an altitude of 630 meters. The Bad Wörishofen thermal spa also conveys an exotic South Sea flair and takes visitors into the water world of the Caribbean.
  3. Johannesbad Therme Bad Füssing: The Johannesbad Therme in Bad Füssing offers its visitors an extraordinary variety of thermal landscapes and treatment options.
  4. Watzmann Therme: In Berchtesgaden, the Watzmann Therme is the destination of many holidaymakers.

Visit zoo in Bavaria

Would you like to go on a trip with the whole family? Then you are in good hands at the zoos in Bavaria. There you can marvel at native wildlife such as lynx, deer and raccoons. In contrast to a zoo , the animals here live in their natural environment. Whether colorful forests, rocky landscapes or refreshing waters. The youngest guests can let off steam in the petting zoo. During a feeding, you will learn how to treat the animals with respect. The most beautiful zoos and wildlife parks in Bavaria include:

  1. Munich Zoo Hellabrunn
  2. Nuremberg Zoo
  3. Zoo Augsburg
  4. Bavarian Forest Zoo in Lohberg
  5. Höllohe Wildlife and Leisure Park in Teublitz
  6. Klaushof Wildlife Park in Bad Kissingen
  7. Poing Wildlife Park

Sailing in Bavaria

Lindau, Lake Constance
Lindau on Lake Constance, Image: FooTToo / shutterstock

To make a holiday in Bavaria perfect, you should not miss out on spending at least part of your holiday by the water. Basically, Bavaria is very suitable for a holiday by the water in Germany, due to its good water quality . On a sailing trip you can leave your everyday life behind and simply enjoy the sound of the water.

There are numerous sailing areas in Freistatt – but on many lakes the wind is rather a rare commodity. However, the larger lakes are still suitable for a one-day or multi-day cruise. These are the best lakes for sailing in Bavaria:

  • Lake Constance: of course, Lake Constance is not Lake Garda – as far as the winds are concerned. But Lake Constance should not be underestimated either: Sailing is very possible on Lake Constance and offers good conditions, especially for beginners and sailing trips. Lake Constance offers much more space for sailing than, for example, Lake Garda, and the sailor can still find a place for several nights in the harbour as a guest.

A touch of insider tip and a strong pinch of superlatives characterise Untersee, the part of Lake Constance whose multifaceted natural and cultural landscape is framed by volcanic cones and a magnificent Alpine backdrop.

  • Ammersee: The sailing paradise of Ammersee presents the sailor with many a sporting and tactical challenge. He can prove his skills not only on the sea: Lake Ammersee is sometimes difficult with approaching thunderstorms, shifting winds and flying water.
  • Chiemsee: The “Bavarian Sea” is one of the most beautiful sailing and surfing areas, where many regattas are held every year. It is home to many sailing clubs and societies, water sports enthusiasts and other water lovers.

On Lake Chiemsee, Lake Starnberg and Lake Ammersee, about 80 percent of the sailing ships in the Free State are registered.

Do I need a sailing license to sail?

There is no general obligation for sailboats in Germany to obtain a sailing license. But depending on the boat and the area, sailing without a sailing license is still not possible. If you want to rent a boat or charter a yacht, you will also need an official driver’s license.

Without a license, you can only get a pedal boat from most rental companies.

Sustainable outdoor equipment

Patrick Jullien
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0
Sustainable outdoor equipment

Sports holidaymakers and hikers spend a large part of their holiday in the great outdoors. That is why this group of tourists attaches particular importance to sustainability and environmental protection. The Vorarlberg-based manufacturer Alpin Loacker attaches particular importance to high quality and environmentally friendly production in its production. Below we would like to introduce you to a selection of the products:

Men’s Outdoor Clothing

The men’s product range consists of:

  • Men’s Merino Underwear (Boxer Shorts, Long Underpants, Socks)
  • Shirts
  • Hoodys
  • Jackets
  • Hats & Headbands
  • West
  • Hiking pants
  • Walking shoes
  • Glasses

The men’s underwear is made from the popular merino wool. Merino wool has many positive properties that are especially advantageous in the sports sector:

  • Due to the special fineness compared to conventional new wool, it does not scratch
  • Natural wool smells less quickly than synthetic materials
  • Wool textiles provide particularly good protection against the cold

A great advantage for nature is that sheep’s wool textiles can later be processed into rice wool.

Hiking poles

Hiking poles support the joints – especially when descending from the mountain. This saves a lot of energy to move safely in nature. Who would want to do without their trekking poles when hiking? You should pay particular attention to the correct adjustment of the hiking poles. So the hiking poles should always be adapted to the terrain. The pole should be set a little longer on the descent and shorter on the ascent. In general, however, it should be adjusted so that the hand can grip the handle well when the arm is at right angles to the floor. The forearm is parallel to the floor and bent at the elbow.

Alpin Loacker offers foldable touring poles, aluminum telescopic and carbon telescopic hiking poles in its online shop. These are made of lightweight aircraft-grade aluminum or super lightweight 3K carbon.

Sleeping bags

Sleeping Bag Outdoor
With the right sleeping bag, you can recover at night and be fit for the next day, Image: everst / shutterstock

Whether in summer or winter: Without suitable down sleeping bags, the night becomes torture and so does the next day in the mountains. Especially recommended for year-round hikers is the Down Pro 3 Seasons Down Sleeping Bag. With a weight of just 860 grams, it is easy to transport. If you prefer to travel in summer, you can save another 400 grams of weight with a summer sleeping bag.

Grödel

Grödel are the ideal upgrade for your hiking boots when hiking or trekking in icy or slippery terrain. The shoe offers good grip on both flat and hilly surfaces. With 18 nails per Grödel, the risk of falling is greatly reduced and mountain hiking in autumn, winter and spring becomes a real pleasure again. These shoe hangers are also suitable for running in ice and snow.

The features at a glance:

  • Winter hiking, trekking
  • elastic silicone – secure hold on (almost) any shoe
  • Durable stainless steel
  • 18 spikes per Grödel
  • light: 415g per pair

Outdoor Clothing for Women

The Merino Thermo clothing is particularly suitable for jogging, skiing, climbing, hiking and mountaineering. The women’s range is similarly extensive to that of men’s outdoor clothing:

  • Shirts
  • Women’s Merino Underwear
  • Warmers
  • Insulating jackets
  • Headbands and caps
  • Walking shoes
  • Coneflower
  • Softshell Jackets

Graz: The beauty of Styria

Patrick Jullien
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Graz: The beauty of Styria

When traveling to Austria, the various cities are usually overshadowed by Vienna or Salzburg, which are also known to most foreign tourists. Graz is another city that has a variety of interesting places to offer. The capital of Styria is a pleasant size and can be easily explored on foot or by public transport. In addition to some sights, however, it is above all the interesting culture of the city that attracts thousands of tourists every year. It is not for nothing that the old town, which has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1999, is home to some of the best cafés in the country.

Listen to this article as a podcast:

The visit to Graz – why here?

Old Town Graz
The old town of Graz, Image: Boris Stroujko / shutterstock

Austria has a long history behind it, which can still be experienced up close in many cities today with breathtaking sights. But while you can simply get lost in Vienna, for example, and Salzburg is mainly associated with the castle for visitors, Graz has retained the charm of a small town and still offers many interesting testimonies from the long history of Austria. It is very easy to move through the streets and the excellent public transport system allows you to visit most of the sights easily by bus.

In addition, Graz not only has historical buildings to offer, but also an interesting and old culture, which can be seen here on every corner. A large number of interesting museums, for example, deal with art in the former empire. Testimonies from the city’s long history can also be seen in exhibitions and museums. And if you’ve had a long day of history and culture, you’ll find a variety of cafes for a break or restaurants serving local cuisine. The hearty dishes of Austria are known all over the world and here you can enjoy them authentically in a historic setting.

The main attractions

Herrengasse
The Herrengasse in Graz, Image: K3S / shutterstock

The city’s landmark is the majestic Graz Clock Tower, which rises in the old town of Graz. It can also be found on most postcards, coins and other souvenirs and is the figurehead for the inhabitants of the city. It is also located on the Schlossberg and if you make your way to visit the tower, you will have the city’s second major attraction right in front of you. This is where the true history of the city is located. The ascent can be done in two ways: Either you use the footpath to the top and enjoy the view of the city, or you take the elevator that takes visitors to the top. From here you have an impressive view, especially in the evening, and can enjoy Graz in the play of lights.

The Schlossberg offers some restaurants and beer gardens and of course probably the most beautiful exhibition of history in the city. From here you not only have a great view, but you can also spend a few hours exploring the locations. Fittingly, Graz is also home to the Landeszeughaus, probably the oldest ammunition and weapons depot in the country, where today not only modern weapons can be found, but above all historical pieces that once adorned the army in the many wars of the Empire.

Last but not least, there are many buildings from former times in the old town. From here you also have an easy way to the Graz Cathedral, which also adorns the skyline of the city and was built in the typical magnificent construction of the Middle Ages. If you have had enough of history and prefer to devote yourself to culture, you can walk to the art museum, which also offers some interesting exhibitions about the long history of the country and the city.

In the end, it is always worthwhile to end the day on Graz’s main square. This is where the city comes together and there are also many bars, cafes and restaurants in this place. So if you want to regain your strength after a long day exploring the city, you can do so with an original Wiener Schnitzel or other delicacies of Austrian cuisine.

On the trail of Cleopatra in ancient Egypt – all about the controversial pharaoh

Patrick Jullien
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On the trail of Cleopatra in ancient Egypt – all about the controversial pharaoh

She was the last of no more than four women on the Egyptian throne. Cleopatra inspires and fascinates historians and history buffs to this day. After all, it played a major role in numerous historical developments. She was instrumental in the establishment of the Roman Empire.

Her life became known to a wide audience centuries ago through the Shakespeare drama “Antony and Cleopatra”. In recent decades, the historical figure has become the leading actress in numerous films and books. Her preference for linking politics and love affairs made Cleopatra popular for posterity.

Cleopatra’s Slots, Movies and Games

Today, the Egyptian queen is known not only from the famous film “Cleopatra” starring Liz Taylor, but also from numerous examples in pop culture. She celebrates them as an icon just as much as the art world. Her eventful life inspires and fascinates. This is also evident in the controversies that the life of the pharaoh repeatedly evokes. The eternal diva is not only represented in painting, photography or video art, but even adorns slot machines.

It is not for nothing that historical Egypt has become a popular motif in the gaming industry. The Egyptian queen serves as a leitmotif for many Cleopatra slots, which have been examined and evaluated in detail here . Her life and her spectacular suicide offer enough material for all genres of the art and entertainment industry, from which many stories can be formed.

At the age of 18 she became regent

Cleopatra was born in Alexandria in 69 BC. She was the third of five children of Pharaoh Ptolemy XII. He ruled the country as a result of the conquest of Alexander the Great. His wife, Cleopatra VI, was almost certainly not the mother of the future queen, but an unknown woman from a noble family. Even before his death, the pharaoh appointed his daughter Cleopatra as co-regent. After the death of her father, Cleopatra VII ascended the throne in 51 BC together with her brother, who was only 10 years old. She was 18 years old at the time. At that time, Egypt was merely a satellite state of the Roman Empire. As was customary at the time, she married her brother, who also ruled as co-pharaoh. But just two years later, the power struggles within the court escalated. Her brother’s guardians pushed Cleopatra from the throne. As a result, she was even forced to leave the country.

Power struggle with the brother

But the ruler did not give up. From Palestine, she fought her brother and his advisor with mercenaries. At that time, Egypt was drawn into the Roman fratricidal war, Julius Caesar, who won this war, also landed in Alexandria and made himself ruler of the country. Cleopatra sneaked into the royal palace hidden in a sack and thus convinced the Roman emperor of herself. She began an affair with Julius Caesar, who subsequently reinstated her as co-regent.

But her brother’s advisors did not give up. They assembled an army that was five times superior to the Roman troops. But Caesar and Cleopatra secured the support of Jewish troops and defeated their enemies. In the course of the fighting, the famous library of Alexandria also went up in flames, Cleopatra’s brother died in this war.

Mistress of Julius Caesar

After the end of the fighting, Cleopatra, together with another brother, rose to become ruler of Egypt before Rome’s grace. Caesar left three legions for their protection, but also as a guarantee of a policy that corresponded to his ideas. The two had a son together in 47 BC with the name Caesarion.

In the following years of her reign, Cleopatra traveled frequently for fame, trying to consolidate her influence on the Roman dictator Julius Caesar. Although he was still married to his Roman wife Calpurnia, he elevated Cleopatra to the divine rank by donating a golden temple statue. Their influence may have contributed significantly to Caesar’s increasingly absolutist style of power. This was increasingly criticized by the Roman elites and could have served as a motive for the conspiracy against Julius Caesar. In 44 BC, the Roman emperor fell victim to an assassination attempt. With this, Cleopatra lost her most important support in Rome for the time being.

Mark Antony goes to war against Octavian

Eine Nahaufnahme einer Marmorstatue, die eine Person mit lockigem Haar darstellt, geschmückt mit einem Kopfschmuck, auf dem ein kleiner Vogel sitzt, und einer Halskette aus geformten Ornamenten, die ihren Kopf auf die Hand stützt.
Image: Wirestock Creators / shutterstock

Caesar had not appointed their son Caesarion as heir, but his nephew Octavian. However, the later Emperor Augustus was not able to assert himself for the time being. Marcus Antonius claimed power and triggered a ten-year conflict. In it, Cleopatra took his side and became his lover. The two had twins. After the death of her brother, Cleopatra had meanwhile risen to become the sole ruler of Egypt.

Mark Antony came into the line of fire of his opponents, who accused him of squandering Roman provinces. Cleopatra, on the other hand, cultivated a cult that culminated in her embodiment of the goddess Isis. She wanted to stand in a row with Roman gods, such as the sun god Ra. In Rome, Octavian and Mark Antony had shared power, but Octavian won in the final power struggle. The naval battle of Actium ended in favor of the future emperor. In 30 BC, the battle was finally lost. Mark Antony threw himself on his sword and died in the arms of Cleopatra.

The victorious Octavian took Cleopatra into custody. In order not to be dragged along as a trophy in Octavian’s planned triumphal procession, the then 39-year-old Cleopatra took her own life. Whether it was actually the bite of a snake, however, is still historically disputed today. Cleopatra was buried at the side of Mark Antony in her mausoleum in Alexandria, according to her wishes. After her death, Egypt became a Roman province with special status, and the rule of the Ptolemies was over.

The story of this fascinating woman still captures the imagination of many fans. Cleopatra has proven to be a cunning ruler who was able to successfully assert herself in a male-dominated world.

 

Brazil – discover the beauty of this versatile country!

Patrick Jullien
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Brazil – discover the beauty of this versatile country!

Brazil is a country of contrasts and contrasts. From breathtaking beaches and deep rainforests to the Iguaçu Falls and swamps of Pantanal to vibrant metropolises – on a trip through Brazil you will experience an incredible diversity.

Diversity in nature and culture!

There are also a variety of reasons for the diversity of the country. One of the most striking is probably the richness of the landscapes and cultures that are present here. In no other country in the world is there such a large number of different environments to discover. From the vast rainforests of the Amazon to the endless beaches of the coasts of Brazilian dreamscapes, everyone will find their own personal paradise here.

Brazil is also known for its exotic wildlife. The Amazon is home to many species of monkeys, sloths and anacondas, while the Pantanal is home to armadillos, giant snakes and jaguars. The birds are also unique and impressive, from the small hummingbirds to the giant harpies.

But it’s not just the world of animals that is busy. The people in the country are also very diverse and come together from all kinds of cultures and backgrounds. This makes Brazil one of the most interesting places on earth to meet new people and cultures.

What are the sights to explore in Brazil?

Anyone who has ever been to Brazil is certainly familiar with the many tourist sights and attractions. But the country has much more to offer than just the well-known media places. If you want to discover the beauty of the country and culture off the beaten track of Brazil, you should not miss the following places on your trip:

The Iguaçu Falls

The Iguaçu Falls are undoubtedly one of the most impressive natural wonders of Brazil. They are located on the border with Argentina and Paraguay and consist of a total of 275 individual waterfalls. The natural spectacle is particularly impressive when the masses of water plunge into the Iguaçu River. A visit to these impressive and natural waterfalls is breathtaking and will remain in your memory forever.

The Pantanal Marshes

The Pantanal swamps are a vast wetland that is particularly popular with animal lovers. The swamps are home to about 650 different species of birds, 150 species of mammals and more than 80 species of reptiles. Particularly worth seeing are the beautiful stilted flamingos that live in the swamps. A visit to the Pantanal marshes is an unforgettable experience for nature lovers and the whole family.

The Amazon

The Amazon is clearly the most famous river in Brazil. With a length of 6400 kilometers, it is the longest river in the world. In the area of the water-bearing lifeline in the Amazon region, about 30 million people live in around 4000 different tribes of the indigenous people. On a trip to the Amazon, travelers can experience the breathtaking nature of the rainforest up close and observe the diverse wildlife in its original state.

Salvador de Bahia

Salvador de Bahia
Salvador de Bahia, Image: Helissa Grundemann / shutterstock

Salvador de Bahia is the capital of the state of Bahia in northeastern Brazil. The city is located at the mouth of the river Bahia de Todos os Santos in the Atlantic Ocean and has around 2.9 million inhabitants. At the time of its discovery by Europeans in 1500, Salvador was the capital of all of Brazil. The city was elevated to episcopal status in 1549 and is now one of the most important cultural centers in Brazil.

Brazilian culture – what makes it special?

Brazilian culture is very diverse. There are many different influences that shape them. These include in particular indigenous culture, African culture, but also Portuguese colonial rule and the cultural diversity created by immigration from all over the world. All these influences have contributed to the Brazilian way of life being so diverse and rich.

An essential part of this vibrant culture is music. It plays a very important role in all areas of people’s lives. Many different styles of music are common in Brazil, including samba, bossa nova, MPB, and reggae. Music is an essential part of the Brazilian identity.

Of course, this is accompanied and firmly linked to the carnival. Carnival is an annual festivity where people celebrate and dance in an exuberant atmosphere. The carnival season is a period of joy and exuberance without restrictions. Everyone can feel free, have fun and live out this feeling.

Brazilian culture is therefore extremely free, lively and colourful. It reflects the diversity of the population and allows everyone present to participate in it. It is unique and something very special.

Travelling to Brazil – it’s worth it!

Due to its many positive facets, Brazil is one of the most fascinating countries in the world. There is so much to see and do that it is not easy to fit all your wishes into one visit. Nevertheless, a trip to Brazil is worthwhile to get to know the breathtaking nature, the lively culture and the warm people.

Brazil is home to some of the most impressive natural beauty in the world. The powerful, imposing waterfalls of Iguazú National Park are overwhelming to look at.

The region of mighty rainforests is also very impressive. In the Amazon region, you can experience the diverse flora and fauna up close.

But what actually leaves a lasting impression on tourists in Brazil are the people themselves. The locals are very warm, hospitable and always willing to show a stranger their country. Even if you don’t speak Portuguese, you won’t experience any language barriers in Brazil. Because most Brazilians also speak English or at least a little Spanish.

The ideal time to travel!

Rio de Janerio at night
Rio de Janeiro at night, Image: SJ Travel Photo and Video/shutterstock

The best time to travel to Brazil is spring and autumn. These are the seasons when the climate is most pleasant. However, if you can stand the Brazilian summer heat, you can also travel to Brazil in summer. However, you should then spend a few days in the cooler areas of the country before continuing on to Rio de Janeiro or São Paulo.

When you travel to the South American country, you can look forward to unique experiences and unforgettable moments. The gorgeous weather and stunning scenery are just some of the reasons why so many people come to Brazil every year.

If you want to determine the best time to travel for your individual needs and ideas, you should look at the weather conditions in different regions of the country. The seasons in particular can have a big impact on the weather.

Find out about the best time to travel to Brazil for your holiday.

Hitchhiking to Japan

Patrick Jullien
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Hitchhiking to Japan

Bastian Maria is a travel-loving photographer from Friedrichshafen on Lake Constance. In March 2020, Bastian and his wife Viviane planned to hitchhike around the world from Germany to Japan. Reisemagazin Online met Maria and Viviane with Bastian:

Reisemagazin Online: First of all, how did you come up with the idea of hitchhiking to Japan ?

Viviane: Bastian and I are both very enthusiastic about sports. Above all, the Olympic Games have fascinated us since our childhood. In 2012 in London and in 2016 we were able to experience the Games in Rio de Janeiro up close. After these two events, it was clear to us that we wanted to travel to Tokyo in 2020.

And why hitchhiking?

Viviane: We thought long and hard about how we could make our trip sustainable and as close as possible to the local population. So that we can immerse ourselves in cultures that are unknown and exciting to us. In addition, we wanted to be as sustainable as possible. If a car is driving in one direction and there is space, why shouldn’t we just go with it?!

2020 was the outbreak of the Corona pandemic. Did the pandemic affect the start of your trip?

Bastian: Yes, definitely. We had quit our apartment and job and had already deregistered from Germany . When we wanted to leave, all borders were suddenly closed. Actually, we wanted to start in March 2020, but had to wait until June. Then the first national borders slowly opened again.

And how did Covid affect you during the trip?

Ein Mann in traditioneller Tracht reitet auf einem schwarzen Pferd über grasbewachsene Ebenen, wobei er einen großen Adler auf seinem behandschuhten Arm hält; im Hintergrund sind schneebedeckte Berge und ein strahlend blauer Himmel zu sehen.
Image: Bastian Maria

Bastian: During the trip, it was especially challenging when it came to entering a new country. It was often not entirely clear which tests and which entry requirements were valid. Entering the country by land was usually not possible. Nonetheless, Covid has taken us to countries we wouldn’t have traveled to without the pandemic. For example, when we had to leave Kyrgyzstan, Pakistan was one of the few countries that allowed tourists into the country. Unforgettable moments and unplanned experiences have been created there. All in all, everything went mostly smoothly. Except that we never made it to Japan.

Why didn’t you make it to Japan?

Viviane: Japan did not reopen its borders before the Tokyo Olympics. Only the athletes, coaches and officials were allowed to enter the country under strict conditions. Even relatives, such as the parents of athletes, were not allowed to enter Japan.

How was the moment for you when you realized that you wouldn’t make it to Tokyo?

Viviane: First of all, we were a bit sad and it took the wind out of our sails a bit. We asked ourselves the question, what are we actually on the road for? However, we quickly agreed that Tokyo was actually “only” the reason for the trip. The actual destination has not changed during the trip.

How would you describe your goal then?

Bastian: From the very beginning, it was important for us to come into contact with foreign cultures. And as close as possible. We wanted to get in touch with people through couchsurfing and hitchhike from A to B. Get to know the country and its people in a personal way. Off the beaten track. Maybe support non-profit organizations in between.

You have certainly experienced a lot as a result. Is there that one moment that you would describe as the most impressive event of the almost two years of world travel?

Eine Person überquert eine schmale, hängende Holzbrücke über einen Fluss mit felsigen Ufern, während in der Nähe eine pakistanische Flagge weht. Im Hintergrund sind schneebedeckte Berge und ein strahlend blauer Himmel zu sehen.
Image: Bastian Maria

Viviane: It’s not possible to define the one highlight. However, there are a few events that you probably only experience once in your life. This includes hunting with an eagle hunter in the mountains of Kyrgyzstan. In Pakistan we were allowed to attend a traditional Punjab wedding for five days. In Turkey , we were allowed to hitchhike on a sailboat on the Aegean coast for a few days.

Reisemagazin Online: “If the trip was not finished by the Olympic Games, what motivated you to end the trip? Or is the journey not over?”

Viviane: I got pregnant on the trip in Sri Lanka . This was no reason for us to go home directly. However, Bastian and I agreed that the child should be born in the familiar home in Germany if possible. And so it was that we stayed in Sri Lanka for three months in Zanzibar before we were in Germany at Christmas in the 7th month of pregnancy. The birth in March 2022 was without complications. Since then, we have been a happy trio.

That’s great news. What are you currently doing and how are you planning your near future?

Bastian: Viviane and I are both self-employed. We are using the current time intensively to further expand our independence. From our trip, we are planning a travel lecture entitled: Thumbs Up – The Hitchhiker’s Guide to Japan. Here we would like to share our experiences with pictures, videos and stories.

In the near future, we would like to go to South Korea and still like to travel to Japan. Of course, we missed the Olympic Games, but to experience the country and the people would still be a great wish of ours. From now on, of course, the three of them.

I wish you all the best for your project. Thank you very much for the interview.

Viviane: We say thank you.

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