All about travel

Punta Cana – the pearl of the Dominican Republic

Dominican Republic

PatrickJullien

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10. June 2022

Punta Cana – the pearl of the Dominican Republic

A poet once came up with an apt formulation when he was asked about the advantages of the Dominican Republic. His statement: “A holiday on this beautiful island is like bathing in a watercolour”. Anyone who has ever gone to one of Punta Cana’s dream beaches is convinced that this judgment is true. Statisticians know that more than forty percent of the approximately three million tourists who look around the Dominican Republic every year look for their own personal domicile at the eastern tip of the island. Punta Cana is unquestionably a pearl among the paradisiacal spots of the Caribbean. With an almost always blue sea and wonderfully warm waves.

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1,500 kilometres of pristine white beach

Punta Cana – these nine letters stand for dreamlike beaches and secluded bays. It is the Costa de Coco, and almost everywhere the beach drops gently into the waters of the Caribbean Sea. If you head for the Dominican Republic from Europe, you usually end up at the international airport at the gates of Punta Cana. After a long flight, the short distances on the island are quite pleasant. The republic has no less than 1,500 kilometres of beaches. It is white almost everywhere, and many of them are considered by international tourism managers to be among the most beautiful in the world. The bright white of the sand competes with the green of the palm trees and the sea, which rarely drops below 26 degrees Celsius.

Hotel offers for every budget

The majority of resorts are located in the Dominican Republic in and around Punta Cana. And these are made for everyone’s wallet. Some are more mid-range hotels, others are particularly tailored to a sporty crowd of guests. Even all-inclusive offers are available in this region of the Caribbean at surprisingly low prices. And almost everywhere, holidaymakers can look forward to top-class restaurants. Punta Cana is something of an Eldorado for gourmets. An 18-hole golf course on the doorstep of this tourist stronghold was designed by none other than the American star designer Pete Dye. The course is one of the best in the entire Caribbean. Since the Dominican Republic is located in the tropical climate zone, guests from all over the world can expect temperatures between 25 and 35 degrees Celsius all year round. If you look around Punta Cana today, it is hard to imagine that a little more than a quarter of a century ago, this place was still a blank spot on the map of international tourism.

Guests at a Caribbean wedding

Punta Cana, Dominican Republic — Punta Cana, Image: Valentin Valkov / shutterstock

Punta Cana is more than just sand and beach. It is worth visiting some of the sights of this region. Among other things, the romantic church Jesus Maestro Parish. The small church is always the scene of a Caribbean wedding. If you’re lucky enough to be here at the right time, you’ll never forget the colorful and cheerful ceremony. The sleepy-looking fishing village of El Cortecito specialises in offering typical island goods. Here you can find jewellery of all kinds in the shops. But also a wealth of CDs with merengue music. And if you want to have a bottle of rum in your luggage on the flight home, you will find the right variety in El Cortecito. Punta Cana is surrounded by the Este National Park. It has a size of 430 square kilometers and is home to rare birds and plants. If you want to visit the interesting Cuevas des Puente and Josè Maria, you should put yourself in the care of experienced guides.

Swim with dolphins in the park

A typical artists’ village is located not far from La Romana. The town of Altos de Chavón is almost a birthday present, because it was built by a certain Charles Bludhorn. He wanted to give his daughter a special present. Today, sculptors, painters, musicians and internationally acclaimed photographers work here in the various workshops. The amphitheater in Altos de Chavón has become a cultural hotspot of the Dominican Republic, offering space for five thousand people. The theme park in Bávaro-Punta Cana is very popular. In Manati Park, flowers bloom in all seasons. Especially the numerous colorful orchids. Visitors also have the opportunity to swim with dolphins or attend a show with seals. Guests get very close to the culture of the island while strolling through a typical Taino village.

Clear water and dazzling corals

If you fly to Punta Cana to enjoy the sun, sand and beach, you are spoilt for choice. Even the locals do not agree in their assessment of the ranking of the most beautiful beaches. Guests are drawn to Playa Bavaro because of the clear water and the dazzling coral world. Playa El Macao is popular for its naturalness, and Playa Arena Garda is the epitome of an exotic world with coconut palms on the beach and dives to the wreck of the MS Astron. Playa Bonita is framed by bizarre rocks. The “Beautiful Beach” is blessed with a golden yellow sand. If you are prepared for longer hikes on the beach in Punta Cana, you will find your paradise at Cabeza de Toro.

Beautiful memories of the holiday

All about travel

PatrickJullien

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9. June 2022

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A photo book or photo print is an excellent way to capture the beautiful memories of the holiday together. In the past, you shot two or three films full and brought them to development after the holidays. Those days are over thanks to digital cameras and smartphones equipped with powerful cameras. Nowadays, thanks to user-friendly software for laymen, it is also possible to order photo printing online quickly and easily.

However, before you start designing the book online, you should first sort out the desired pictures and think about the order in which they will be placed.

Rosemood Online Shop — Website of Rosemood

Once this point is ticked off, you choose the desired provider. Admittedly, the selection of providers on the Internet is extensive. If you value careful workmanship and high-quality paper grades, we recommend the French supplier Rosemood Atelier, based in Nantes in western France.

Founded in 2006, the company specialised in the printing of high-quality birth cards in 2010 after initial difficulties. A big step was already taken in 2013: the print products could be manufactured in the company’s own halls. Thus, the high quality standards of the paper lovers could be asserted. In the same year, the young company published its first German-language website, “geburtskarten.com”.

More and more print products have been added to the range over the years. From high-quality Christmas and wedding cards, photo prints to the popular photo books.

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Best print result

To authentically reproduce your photos and highlight the contrasts, Rosemood Atelier uses 5-colour digital printing. However, before the product is printed, it must of course first be designed. In the first step, you can choose from various layouts, also known as templates.

Once you have decided on a template, upload the pre-selected images to the software and start placing the images. In the photo book, the individually designed pages can be provided with text to keep the memories of certain sights or people alive in this way.

Take a few hours to design it. The result will thank you and you will always have a great pleasure in reminiscing.

Good ideas to immortalize your vacation pictures on paper

Picturesque bridges on the city trip, e.g. the Charles Bridge in Prague, the Rialto Bridge in Venice or the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco
Famous sights such as the Eiffel Tower in Paris, the Acropolis in Athens or the Colosseum in Rome are ideal for a large-format print
The wonderful sunset on the beach
Family photo with all family members (especially on vacation, other tourists are always helpful and happy to help take pictures.

General tips for taking photos on holiday

Be sure to take a second battery or, depending on the device, a power bank with you
Look for exciting, unusual motifs
For high image quality, don’t overdo the use of zoom
Feel free to take two to three pictures at a time and then choose the right motif
Keep the lens clean
To save storage space, you can delete failed pictures directly

Popular holiday destinations on the Italian Adriatic

Italy

PatrickJullien

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9. June 2022

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Popular holiday destinations on the Italian Adriatic

Mediterranean holiday flair spreads on the beautiful beaches, bays and coastal towns of the Italian Adriatic. Italy’s Adriatic coast can be as diverse as the regions that lie on its shores – from Veneto to Emilia-Romagna and Abruzzo to Puglia. Film, novel and fascinating travel stories entwine around the beautiful holiday destinations on the Italian east coast, including dream destinations such as Venice, Caorle, Trieste, Rimini and Otranto. One thing is clear: The Italian Adriatic coast is a paradise for friends of Mediterranean culture and beach holidays.

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Venice – World-class Mediterranean cultural city

Murano Island — View of the colorful Venetian houses along the canal on the islands of Murano in Venice, Image: Javen / shutterstock

Hardly any other city in Italy – perhaps with the exception of Rome – fascinates international visitors as much as Venice. And for good reason. The world-famous canal city strings together a whole spectacle of magnificent buildings of the UNESCO World Heritage Site. Along unforgettable sights such as the Rialto Bridge, St. Mark’s Square with St. Mark’s Basilica or the Doge’s Palace runs Venice’s Mediterranean lifeline: the Grand Canal. If you have chosen the Italian Adriatic as your holiday destination, you should not miss Venice and its Veneto region. The Venice Lagoon is located directly on the Adriatic coast and can provide a wonderful contrast to many of the seaside resorts of the Adriatic Sea with its fascinating cultural program within the city. Not much more needs to be said about the city with its fascinating canals, except: A Mediterranean dream destination on the Italian Adriatic.

Caorle and Bibione – In the footsteps of Hemingway

Lighthouse of Bibione, Image: AerialVision_it / shutterstock

The beauty of the Italian Adriatic did not pass by the American writer Ernest Hemingway either. In the 1940s, for example, he regularly stayed in the historic coastal town of Caorle. There he is said to have laid the foundations for his work “Across the River into the Forests (1950)”. Together with the neighboring town of Bibione, Carole is now considered one of the most beautiful seaside resorts on the northern Adriatic coast. Highlights are of course the local beaches – in Caorle there are the Spiaggia di Ponente and the Spiaggia Levante to see. But the coastal town also has an old town worth seeing with picturesque alleys and colourful house façades, as well as the Madonna dell’Angelo church near the shore and a cylindrical campanile. Mediterranean beach idyll can also be seen in Bibione, a top destination for beach vacationers on the northern Adriatic.

Trieste – City of Culture on the shores of the Adriatic Sea

Trieste, Italy — Picturesque Trieste, Image: leoks / shutterstock

It is easy to forget that the historic cultural city of Trieste can also be found directly on the Adriatic coast as a holiday resort. The city is excellently located near the border to also take a tour to Croatian Istria . Trieste itself has a long history, dating back to ancient times, when the city was known as Tergeste. Today, Trieste is a well-known port city, an economic and cultural center of the northern Adriatic coast. At its heart is the central square Piazza dell’Unità d’Italia with an eclectic town hall from the 19th century, magnificent palazzos and the Fountain of the Four Continents (Fontana dei quattro continenti) from the 18th century. In the surrounding area are the scenic Castello di Duino and the Castello di Miramare – magnificent buildings located in the dreamlike panorama of the Adriatic Sea. The city has a beautiful Grand Canal at its heart as well as fascinating

Districts – whether historic or modern – and hiking routes in the area that are popular with nature lovers. When it comes to the most beautiful holiday destinations on the Adriatic, Trieste should not be forgotten.

Rimini – paradise for beach vacationers

Tiberius Bridge Rimini — The Tiberius Bridge of Rimini, Image: ALEX_UGALEK / shutterstock

None other than the world-famous Italian film director Federico Fellini (La Strada, 8 1/2, La Dolce Vita) was once born in Rimini, which repeatedly resonated in his films through characters and scenery. Even today, Rimini is one of the most popular bathing orders on the Italian Adriatic coast. This is due to the many dream beaches in the Emilia-Romagna region, but also to the optimal location to explore other highlights of Italy. A day trip to the historic city of Ravenna with its World Heritage Site is easily possible – magnificent churches and baptisteries from early Christian times await you there. Rimini itself is interspersed with historical buildings – there are especially ancient structures such as the old Arch of Augustus from 27 BC or the Ponte d’Augusto bridge, whose roots lie in the time of the Roman emperor Tiberius. Seaside tourism in Ravenna has a long tradition, so in the middle of the 19th century the first official seaside resort on the Adriatic coast was built here. And the city has lost none of its seaside charm to this day.

From Otranto to Lecce – The tourist insider tips of Puglia

Puglia, Polignano a Mare — Polignano a Mare, Image: Stefano_Valeri / shutterstock

The beautiful Apulia in the south of Italy is still one of the insider tips among the Italian travel regions. Puglia has some of the most idyllic coastal resorts in the Italian Adriatic. If you want to get to know the Adriatic coast far away from the classic hotspots such as Venice or Rimini, you should therefore go to the south of the country. Among other things, the historic Otranto with its old town and its fascinating coastal cityscape is located there. Rarely has a city been so seamlessly integrated into the cliff landscapes of the Adriatic coast. In general, a relaxed tour along the coastal region of Puglia is recommended for travelers. Here are historic cities such as Lecce with its terminal columns of the ancient Roman Via Appia, the Roman amphitheater, and its famous buildings of the Leccese Baroque, which is why the city is also known as the Florence of the Rococo. Bari, Ostuni or the beautiful Santa Maria di Leuca on the South Cape – the intersection between the Adriatic Sea and the Ionian Sea – make Puglia one of the most interesting regions to discover the Adriatic coast.

The most beautiful sights and excursion destinations on La Réunion

Reunion

PatrickJullien

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8. June 2022

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The most beautiful sights and excursion destinations on La Réunion

The Île de la Réunion, part of the French Overseas Territory, is one of the most fascinating island worlds in the Indian Ocean in terms of tourism. To the east of the coast of Madagascar, a spectacular natural paradise unfolds, whose green panoramas have their origin in the volcanic activity of the Piton des Neiges. Even today, the central formation shapes the geography of the island, whose highlights attract great attention, especially among nature lovers. Whether it’s the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Parc national de la Réunion, the striking Cap Méchant with its rock gate and the Voile de la mariée waterfall: La Réunion offers a breathtaking selection of natural sights.

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Parc national de la Réunion – The island’s UNESCO World Heritage Site

Reunion Beach — Reunion is simply paradise, Image: Balate Dorin / shutterstock

The Parc national de la Réunion is the natural heart of La Réunion. With its peaks and cirques, it was recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2010. As one of the nine French national parks, it covers about 40 percent of the island’s territory in the heart of La Réunion. It is therefore not surprising that some of the most beautiful natural formations and natural sights can be discovered within the national park. In the middle of the center is the extinct volcano Piton des Neiges, which formed La Réunion about three million years ago. Today, the Piton des Neiges is not only an attraction for experienced mountaineers, but also the natural hikes and trekking tours to the Piton des Neiges. Together with the historic calderas Cirque de Salazie, Cirque de Mafate and Cirque de Cilaos, it forms the natural heart of the Parc national de la Réunion.

Cirque de Salazie, Cirque de Cilaos and co. – The cirques in the national park

Together with the historic volcano Piton des Neiges, the Cirque de Salazie, Cirque de Mafate and Cirque de Cilaos calderas have been part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site in La Réunion’s National Park since 2010 under the title Pitons, cirques et remparts de l’île de La Réunion. Narrow road bends – such as the Road of 420 Curves – lead into the heart of the two more easily accessible calderas, Cirque de Cilaos and Cirque de Salazie. An exceptional natural panorama unfolds in the surroundings of the calderas, which, like the Piton des Neiges, form essential parts of the nature of the national park. The valley basin of Salazie is particularly popular for its natural hiking routes, which bring visitors closer to the green facets of the national park. The Cilaos cirque, located directly on the Piton des Neiges, also attracts nature and hiking enthusiasts from the region with its routes – like the tours to the Piton des Neiges, they provide the best reasons for fans of active travel to visit the National Park of La Réunion.

Cilaos cirque

If you travel to the Cilaos cirque, you will drive through very impressive hairpin bends with a breathtakingly beautiful landscape in the most beautiful greenery. At this holiday destination, it is definitely worth unpacking your hiking boots and exploring the area on foot. You should definitely visit the town of Cilaos.

Cap Méchant with rock gate – Natural archways on Le Réunion

Cap Méchant, Reunion — Cap Méchant, Image: Zourite / shutterstock

If you are looking for a contrast to the national park in the heart of La Réunion, the coast of the French island offers dreamlike bays and sea panoramas. There are the striking rock faces of Cap Jaune or the beach idyll of the Plage des Roches Noires. Cap Méchant in the south of the island is particularly photogenic, formed from the fascinating legacies of La Réunion’s volcanic activity. The unpredictable cliff landscapes require a natural safety distance, but with appropriate caution they provide one of the most beautiful views of the coastal world of Lá Reunion. In the middle of an untameable surf, a striking rock gate is also presented here, which penetrates the cooled lava with a special sight. A nice contrast to the mountains and forests in the heart of the island. By the way: If you are interested in natural rock gates, you will find a similar one in the valley of the Bras de la Plaine river, the L’Arche Naturelle, a comparatively beautiful natural spectacle.

The Cap Noir and the Mafate viewpoint

Here you will find beautiful hiking trails to explore. One of the destinations of these routes is the Mafate viewpoint, which consists of a small pavilion and a few benches. The view here is truly of breathtaking beauty. The green valley visible from here provides an amazement that never wants to end. Just beautiful and to enjoy!

Weekly market of Saint-Paul – delicacies in the coastal town

La Réunion offers a lot of untouched nature, so a trip into city life can be a pleasant alternative. The island’s weekly markets are famous, especially that of Saint-Paul. Whether blaze of colour or exotic smells and tastes, the weekly market of the coastal town is full of them. From fruit to vegetables, from regional specialities to spices and clothing – on market days, a pleasantly lively island life with interesting assortments awaits you here. As a rule, the market of Saint-Paul takes place from Friday to Saturday. The market experience is not limited to Saint-Paul, cities such as Saint-Pierre and Saint-Denis also have weekly markets or fixed market halls with culinary highlights. If you want to enrich your holiday on La Réunion with regional specialities, you should visit the island’s towns and markets.

Whale watching – whale watching in the coastal region of La Réunion

In the appropriate season, the coast of La Réunion is lively: whales are drawn to the island region, which inspire many travelers to whale watch. June to September are considered the best months to catch a glimpse of the special sea creatures. A typical starting point for the popular tours is the seaside resort of Saint-Gilles les Bains, from where some glass-bottom boats depart. Especially on the south coast of the island, the gigantic marine mammals appear during the season. Whale watching at La Réunion is strictly regulated – including minimum distances so as not to disturb the fragile ecosystem in the long term. In the corresponding season, humpback whales are particularly widespread near La Réunion. There are also isolated sightings of pilot whales, small killer whales and right whales. Dolphins are also regular visitors to the shores of La Réunion. Further proof that the island is one of the special natural paradises in the Indian Ocean.

Grand Anse Beach

The palm beach Grand Anse is located in the south of La Réunion. This beautiful white sandy beach is a must-see. It invites you to linger for a longer time and relax in the sun. Due to the existing shark danger in the area, an area was separated from the sea with stones especially for tourism. In this separately created swimming pool you can splash around safely and wonderfully. A beautiful day of swimming under the hot sun of the Indian Ocean is guaranteed.

Cap Jaune

Cap Jaune is a rock face about 50 meters high in the south of La Réunion. But this beautiful holiday resort is not that easy to reach. First, you have to hike over lava rock for about half an hour to get to this beautiful place. But once you are there, you can observe the natural interplay of the sea and this rock face. In an impressive setting, the waves slap against the rock face again and again. This spectacle invites you to enjoy it for hours, preferably with a magnificent sunset. It is even possible to climb down this rock face. For the more adventurous, extra ropes are attached for abseiling. The Cap Jaune was created by combining glowing lava with the seawater.

Lagoon on the west coast

On the west coast of La Réunion, you will find a unique lagoon that is second to none. This is certainly one of the most beautiful places on the island. The sandy beach, which is several kilometres long, offers the ideal opportunities for a perfect bathing experience. The underwater world demonstrates a colorful spectacle to snorkelers and divers. This beach is also secured from sharks.

Piton de la Fournaise

The Piton de la Fournaise is one of the most active volcanoes in the world. Very often this spits out lava. If you are on the island, there is a good chance that you will be able to observe this spectacle for yourself. There is a volcano museum nearby, where you can learn a lot of interesting facts about it. On the one hand, this is very interesting, but on the other hand, it is also very instructive in order to better understand the whole context.

Saint-Leu Turtle Observatory

The turtle observatory in Saint-Leu is particularly interesting for children.
You will learn a lot of interesting facts about these armored inhabitants of the island. In addition, you can experience turtle rearing up close at the research station.

Crater Lake Grand Bassin

Réunion’s only crater lake, Grand Bassin, is definitely worth a visit. This is located in the center of La Réunion. Several waterfalls provide it with cool water from a great height. You simply have to see this spectacle with your own eyes. In the immediate vicinity there are breathtaking gorges and rock formations with green valleys. This place with its biodiversity of plants and animals is really a fantastic experience. Here you might think you’ve come one step closer to paradise.

The most popular vacation spots in the Dominican Republic

Dominican Republic

PatrickJullien

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7. June 2022

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The most popular vacation spots in the Dominican Republic

The Dominican Republic – a destination that many people dream of. Spend your holiday where the most beautiful beaches in the world are located. Switching off once in the Caribbean, that is the goal of many. The country is known for the most beautiful snow-white sandy beaches in the world. But the Dominican Republic also has a lot to offer historically and culturally. After all, this is where the famous explorer Christopher Columbus landed in 1492 when he discovered America. In the following, the most beautiful holiday resorts of the Dominican Republic from Santo Domingo to La Romana with their sights are briefly presented. You should definitely have seen it if you stay in this country.

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Capital Santo Domingo

Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic — View of Santo Domingo, Image: sharptoyou / shutterstock

The capital Santo Domingo should definitely be visited as part of a trip to the Dominican Republic. It is located on the south coast of the island. The capital with its 3 million inhabitants offers tourists all kinds of sights worth seeing. Here you can find the colorful life in all its diversity that the Dominican Republic has to offer. History and modernity are combined here. Impressive architecture, especially in the old town from the colonial era, is offered to visitors interested in historical buildings in this city. This part of Santo Domingo is a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its beauty that is worth preserving.

A monument to none other than the great explorer Christopher Columbus was erected in Santo Domingo. Both its statue and the Columbus Palace would be this well-known personality in the history of seafaring. Many fortresses and ruins from the past days of the colonial era offer tourists an instructive insight into history. Especially the fortress Ozama, which is still in very good condition today, is worth a visit. Many museums offer a wide range of activities for those interested in art and culture. The beautiful beach promenade “Avenida George Washington”, which is located directly on the blue sea, invites you to stroll and linger. At Playa Boca Chica, one of the most beautiful beaches in the entire Dominican Republic, there are many tourists who spend a fantastic beach holiday there. The cave lake park Los Tres Ojos should also be seen during a visit to the capital. The numerous restaurants of Santo Domingo offer all kinds of culinary delights of the region.

Puerto Plata – First settlement

Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic — Puerto Plata, Image: Fairy Lens / shutterstock

Puerta Plata is the place in the Dominican Republic where the first settlement in the New World was founded by the famous explorer Christopher Columbus. Over a total length of more than 100 kilometers, you will find beautiful beaches here. Playa Dorada in particular stands out here. This beach is also a very popular destination for surfers from all over the world. There are many sights in the city of Puerto Plata . The historically important fortress of San Felipe is a witness to the era of famous explorers and conquerors. In the Taíno Museum, those interested in culture can learn all kinds of interesting things about the indigenous people of the Dominican Republic. Another highlight is the Amber Museum, which tells about the first settlement of Christopher Columbus called “La Isabela”. Families can have fun at the fantastic Ocean World theme park .

Punta Cana

The popular holiday region of Punta Cana is located at the easternmost tip of the Dominican Republic. This is located on both the Caribbean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean. The beautiful sandy beaches with a total length of 32 kilometers attract numerous tourists every year. The water here is crystal clear. Punta Cana, together with Bávaro, is part of the Costa del Coco. This region is home to many beautiful all-inclusive hotel complexes.

Samaná Peninsula

Dominican Republic, Samana — Beaches on Samana, Image: Rafael Martin-Gaitero / shutterstock

The Samaná Peninsula is located in the northeast of the Dominican Republic. It is a popular travel destination in the region. However, it is not so much mass tourism that takes place here, but rather individual tourism. Here you will also find the well-known town of Santa Bárbara de Samaná. This is where the life of this beautiful region bustles. If you want to find a lonely spot with a beautiful white beach like Robinson Crusoe, this is the place for you. Everything here is still largely untouched. Very popular in this region is the holiday resort of Las Terrenas with the bay of Samaná. Here you have the opportunity to even watch humpback whales at certain times. Picturesque landscapes with wonderful nature also offer hiking enthusiasts many opportunities to pursue their hobby. You should definitely visit the Los Haitises National Park . Here you will find probably the most beautiful mangrove forests.

La Romana

La Romana on the south coast of the Dominican Republic is a paradise for water sports enthusiasts and golfers. But bathing enthusiasts will also find the most beautiful beaches with white sand here. Here you can also visit small fishing villages and see the grandiose sugar cane plantations of this area. La Romana is an area that offers a lot of activities, especially to sports enthusiasts. From diving and snorkeling to tennis, all these sports are numerous in the offer of the tour operators. A highlight is the Guadalupe Underwater Museum with old pirate wrecks of days gone by. The picturesque fishing village of Bayahibe is very beautiful.

The most beautiful holiday resorts in Bulgaria

Bulgaria

PatrickJullien

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6. June 2022

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The most beautiful holiday resorts in Bulgaria

The most beautiful and exotic beaches of the Balkans are located on the territory of Bulgaria – clean, hospitable and inviting for an unforgettable summer vacation! Wide sandy beach, clean sea and great nature. This makes the beaches in Bulgaria a popular holiday destination for tourists from the neighboring countries of Romania and Macedonia, as well as from far-flung countries such as Germany, Austria, Poland, the Czech Republic, and others.

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Visit Varna – the maritime capital of Bulgaria!

Varna is the largest city in northern Bulgaria and is located on the Bulgarian Black Sea coast. The city’s population is estimated at 336,505, which puts Varna in third place in Bulgaria (after Sofia and Plovdiv). Varna is often referred to as the “capital of the sea” or “summer capital of Bulgaria” and is an important tourist and educational center, as well as a starting point for resorts on the northern Black Sea coast. The city is home to a gold treasure from the Chalcolithic period, which until recently was considered the oldest gold treasure in the world. Nearby are holiday resorts that attract with their beautiful beaches. The town’s restaurants with their delicious cuisine and the beach bars are a real treat for the soul after the long cold months.

Varna is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in Bulgaria – vast golden sandy beaches, green freshness, clear sea and a variety of resorts and localities, recreation areas and places of relaxation. Everyone will find their paradise here – families with children, young people looking for fun and nature lovers who prefer a quiet and peaceful holiday. The Black Sea coast of Varna offers numerous opportunities for recreation and entertainment – on the wide, up to 32 km long coastline there are over 22 beaches, some of which have been awarded the “Blue Flag” – a symbol of a clean and ecological environment.

Albena – Peace and Security

Albena, Bulgarian Black Sea Coast — Extensive beach in Albena, Image: Michael Dechev / shutterstock

Millions of tourists around the world know this name – Albena. The Bulgarian brand, which has become a symbol of high-quality family holidays, is a popular holiday destination. The hotels are lined up like a white chain along the long, fine sandy beach. The shallow and clear sea caresses the beautiful coast, and the nearby nature reserve “Baltata” fills guests with healthy air. Sunny Albena is the most popular holiday village for young and old. This paradisiacal spot on earth, surrounded by forest, sea and beach, is the ideal place for a relaxing family holiday. Albena attracts its guests with cozy hotels and thousands of recreational and sports facilities.

Albena Holiday Village is the perfect place for happy children and relaxed parents, because here the little ones have plenty of space to let off steam to their heart’s content, ride a bike, rollerblade, kick a ball without worrying. The children can let off steam in Albena without hindrance, because Albena’s Green Mission and the parking policy limit car traffic in the complex to a minimum. For an even more memorable holiday for Albena’s youngest guests, the resort also has bungees, trampolines, roller coasters, gondolas, bumper cars and water shock absorbers.

Zlatni Piasaci attracts with its picturesque coast, cozy beaches, clean air

Zlatni Piasaci (Golden Sands) is located 16 km north of the maritime capital Varna in the cool forest of the nature park of the same name, very close to the golden sandy beach. The name of the resort is very meaningful in itself. Legend has it that Black Sea pirates buried a wonderful treasure of gold on the shore of today’s resort. The sea, however, avenged the injustice of the bandits by turning the gold jewels and money into beautiful, fine, golden sand…
Do you want to enjoy a romantic sunrise or sunset on the beach, go fishing or drive as close to the beach as possible? Whether relaxing, swimming or walking, playing with the kite or building sand castles, the most beautiful beaches of Zlatni Piasaci offer something for everyone.

Sunny Beach – not everything is alcohol in Bulgaria’s largest resort!

Sunny Beach is the largest resort on the Black Sea. With its hotels and apartment complexes located along the coast and hidden in the greenery, Sunny Beach seems like a magical oasis. The resort of Sunny Beach is located on the southern Black Sea coast, about 30 km from the regional center of Burga, 100 km from Varna, the Bulgarian capital on the Black Sea, and 3 km from the ancient city of Nesebar. It is located in a wide, semicircular bay that is open to the east. In the north, the resort is surrounded by the heights of the Stara Planina Mountains, which coexist harmoniously with the sea, and in the south it borders on the picturesque Nessebar. The beach is 8 km long and 30 to 60 meters wide, covered with fine golden sand and natural sand dunes. Many rare plants grow here. The sea is clean, without dangerous fish. The average temperature of the sea water is 20-26 degrees Celsius and the salinity is twice that of the Mediterranean. The sunshine duration between May and October is about 1700 hours. Sunny Beach has been awarded the Blue Flag because it has been proven to offer clean beaches and a clean sea, as well as fresh air from the nearby mountains. In recent years, Sunny Beach has established itself as a destination for alcohol and youth tourism – but there is something for everyone! Try it out!

Shabla – lots of unspoiled nature and tranquility!

Shabla, Bulgaria — You will find peace and relaxation in Shabla, Image: naskopi / shutterstock

Shabla is a small town in northeastern Bulgaria that, with its beautiful, unspoiled nature, is a popular place for tourists who love peace and quiet. Guest houses, campsites, villas and small family hotels are fully occupied in the summer season. The locals are distinguished by their hospitality, and for tourists there is an unfathomable magic of the north that attracts them every year to the vicinity of Shabla, Tyulennovo, Krapets, Durankulak and other beautiful places.

The most beautiful holiday islands in Thailand

PatrickJullien

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3. June 2022

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The most beautiful holiday islands in Thailand

Thailand rightfully holds the crown as the most popular tourist destination in Southeast Asia, and its popularity continues to rise. The tropical country is located on both the Andaman Sea and the Gulf of Thailand and borders Malaysia, Laos, Cambodia and Myanmar.

If you want to combine exoticism and adventure with endless white beaches, palm forests, turquoise blue sea and low prices, Thailand is the right place for you. But while the mainland also attracts with numerous attractions and is always worth a visit, the real charm of Thailand lies in its extensive island world. Thailand has a wide range of islands in all sizes and shapes in both seas, some of which are much more touristy than others.

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How to get there

If you want to visit one of Thailand’s islands, there are several options. Especially the larger, very touristy islands such as Koh Samui or Phuket have large airports and can be reached very easily, for example from the capital Bangkok . Unfortunately, direct flights from Germany are not offered. If you want to visit lesser-known or smaller islands, you can travel by boat. There are many such ferry connections, which also makes the journey relatively uncomplicated and inexpensive.

Let yourself be convinced and enchanted by the 5 most beautiful holiday islands in Thailand.

Phuket – the big island for beginners

Patong, Phuket — Patong Beach on Phuket, Image: John_Walker / shutterstock

Phuket – The largest of all Thai islands is also the most popular with tourists. The main town of Patong is therefore very well developed for tourism and those who like to move on safe paths are in good hands here. The city also offers a debauched colorful nightlife and an excellent infrastructure. If you explore the rest of the island, however, you can still find and enjoy peace and quiet and beautiful scenery and beaches very quickly. Particularly recommended is the Sirinat National Park, which has relatively empty beaches and beautiful forests.

Koh Samui – Thailand as you imagine it

Koh Samui is Thailand’s third largest island and has an area of 233 square kilometers. It is generally considered the most versatile island and, together with Phuket, is the clear leader in terms of tourist numbers. Of course, there are good reasons for this, because on Koh Samui you will find everything a holidaymaker’s heart desires in Thailand. Here you will find the right offer for every price range and for every area of interest. Whether it’s a luxury holiday with lots of culture and nightlife or a family holiday in a holiday apartment right on the beach – everything is possible on Koh Samui. The northeast is particularly known for its parties, while in the south of the island you can also marvel at quiet little fishing villages and untouched nature.

Koh Phangan – the hip party island

View of Koh Pangan, Image: Huw Penson / shutterstock

Koh Phangan is particularly popular with younger tourists and backpackers looking for alternative entertainment. Particularly well-known and popular are the so-called “Moon Parties”, which are a great attraction in themselves. Koh Phangan is also very popular with yoga lovers and offers plenty of offers for interested parties and professionals. But nature is not neglected here either: numerous temples and waterfalls characterize this island and an ascent of the 627-meter-high mountain Khao Ra is definitely worth the effort.

Koh Tao – perfect for diving

This small island is also called Turtle Island due to its shape and is geographically the little sister of Koh Samui and Koh Phangan. It is famous as one of the best diving areas in the world and that is exactly the main attraction of Koh Tao – the beautiful underwater world. The diving industry here offers affordable diving courses for every level and even if you just want to go snorkeling, you will hardly find a better place to do so. Another special feature is the frequent opportunity to encounter wild whale sharks, which form a fantastic climax to the dazzling schools of fish and coral banks. The island is also one of the most beautiful in Thailand and offers beautiful beaches and other recommended attractions, such as the natural John Suwan viewpoint.

Koh Phi Phi – the backpacker stronghold

Koh Phi Phi is best known for the Hollywood film “The Beach” with Leonardo Di Caprio, which was released in 2000. And even though the island is no longer a lonely paradise, it still offers all kinds of attractions. Here, too, there is a lot to find for both party-goers and nature lovers, including Long Beach or Viking Cave. The many bays, which are best explored by boat from the sea, are also particularly recommended. Due to the high number of backpackers from all over the world, it is also very easy to make new friends here. Koh Phi Phi is therefore very attractive, especially for solo travelers. The prices are cheap and even for diving, Koh Phi Phi is ideal. A true all-rounder.

Colónia de Sant Jordi – Sand and sun at the southern tip of Mallorca

PatrickJullien

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31. May 2022

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Colónia de Sant Jordi – Sand and sun at the southern tip of Mallorca

The further south you drive in the east of Mallorca, the drier the wide and flat country becomes. But numerous fjords with picturesque bays invite you to take a fabulous break by the almost Caribbean turquoise sea. This is where Colónia de Sant Jordi is located. The “colony” – a holiday resort with a pretty marina – is surrounded by beautiful beaches. With its wide coves, Colónia de Sant Jordi is the ideal place for beach enthusiasts.

Now that you’ve really got into the mood, you want to float forever through the lonely landscapes of the south. Here, Mallorca is still a bit as it once was. Even the sun seems to shine a little brighter here than elsewhere – and that’s not just because of the glistening white of the nearby salt flats.

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Island feeling and coastal magic

View of Colonia de Sant Jordi, Image: Video Media Studio Europe / shutterstock

Superb beaches, salty lakes and the island paradise of Cabrera on your doorstep; a nice coastal promenade with restaurants and cafés and a lively harbour from which boats depart for the Archipiélago de Cabrera – boredom is certainly not an option in Colónia de Sant Jordi.

When entering the village, you should not be deceived by the faceless cityscape. Dreamlike, almost unspoilt beaches that are not overcrowded even in the high season make the place a paradise for sun worshippers and water rats. From the small colorful harbor, you can walk to the beautiful beaches of Platja els Dols, and the dream beaches of Ses Roquetes and Es Carbo, further southeast. Some linger for a while at the romantic harbour with its palm-fringed pedestrian zone. Instead of ostentatious yachts, fishing boats bob in the bay – they are a real eye-catcher.

To the west of Colónia de Sant Jordi is one of the most popular beaches on the island. Es Trenc is a fine sandy beach pleasure over a length of five kilometres. There are no hotel towers in the background, but dunes and Aleppo pines line this stretch of coast.

The islands of Cabrera belong to nature: but visitors are welcome! The main island of Cabrera is a beautiful swimming and hiking destination. A steep path leads from the harbour up to the castle, which once served as barracks and prison for Napoleonic soldiers. Down at the bay there are tiny stretches of beach. The Cabrera Archipelago can be visited by boat from Colónia de Sant Jordi. The crossing takes about 45 minutes.

Worth seeing – at a glance

At the harbour and along the promenade, Colónia de Sant Jordi shows its most beautiful side. The promenade leads along the flat rocky coast over a wooden footbridge. In the harbour bay there is a small beach, cafés and fish restaurants.
Attractive natural beaches flank the town. Mallorca’s dream beach, the Platja de Trenc, joins the Platja Estanys to the west.
You should also not miss a tour of the large botanical garden at Ses Salines Santanyi . The Botanicactus is home to numerous cacti and a wetland with Mediterranean plant species on 15 hectares.
Cabrera: Once a pirate’s hideout, visitors can now approach the island safely. A visit to the idiosyncratic visitor center Centro de Vistiantes Parque Nacional de Cabrera is definitely worthwhile. The main attraction is a huge seawater aquarium.

Active in Colónia de Sant Jordi – enchanting and excitingly beautiful

Would you like to take a look through the shop window into the underwater world of Cabrera? It’s very easy. To do this, visitors dive into the saltwater aquarium with a panorama lift and look the barracudas in the eye. Then it goes up to the observation tower. Just don’t dive up too quickly: On the way, it’s worth taking a look at the maritime wall mosaic – murals that depict the settlement history of the Mediterranean region. Finally, the upper platform offers a wonderful view.

Attention water sports enthusiasts! At Platja Estanys you can go sailing, surfing and water skiing.

Hikers also get their money’s worth. Then a walk to the Cap de ses Salines is on the program. Along the beach you can reach the southern tip of Mallorca, past old bunkers and sandy coves. After a more or less long walk, you can enjoy a solitude in the immediate vicinity of the sea, which is quite unusual for Mallorca.

Known? Colónia de Sant Jordi is mainly attracted by tourists from Switzerland. Many hotels and accommodations are run by Swiss nationals. A debauched nightlife like in Magaluf or S’Arenal is therefore not to be expected.

The most beautiful destinations in the area

Capocorb Vell, Mallorca — Capocorb Vell, Image: Karel Gallas / shutterstock

A trip to Capocorb Vell, the most important Talayotic settlement in the western Mediterranean, is worthwhile. It was probably built until the 3. and 4th century.

In the direction of Campos there are many windmills that once pumped water for the fields. Ses Salines de Levant are salt lakes with typical white crystal heaps. Occasionally you can see flamingos there.

And in Banys de Sant Joan are the only thermal springs on the island. The small spa hotel dates back to 1842. It is also accessible to day visitors.

Where it tastes best

“Port-Blau” stands out as a classically elegant fish restaurant on the harbour promenade, while Sal de Coco attracts visitors with creative and tasteful Mallorca cuisine. In addition, the terrace offers the perfect harbour view. The name of the restaurant refers to the salt residues that can be found in rock hollows by the sea.
Tambucho – this bar is cult: During the day, it’s mostly the locals who sip their coffee here. But in the evening, the team of the harbour bar is in top form, serving great cocktails and fine tapas. Music from pop to independent to flamenco is often presented live.
Probably the most famous fish restaurant on the island is Casa Manolo. Here people appreciate the freshness of the sea. There are regulars who swear that Manolo is the best tapas on the island.

Lara – New Tourist Center of Turkey

Turkey

PatrickJullien

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27. May 2022

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The Antalya region in Turkey is probably one of the most beautiful travel destinations in the immediate vicinity of Germany. In a few hours by plane, you are not only in another culture, but in an area full of beautiful beaches, sights and opportunities for relaxation. While Side, for example, has already made a name for itself, the name Lara in particular has recently appeared again and again. As part of the city of Antalya, an insider tip for holidays in this part of Turkey has developed in recent years. With a large number of new and sometimes luxurious hotels, you have a good basis for an exciting trip.

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Remote district with beautiful sandy beach

Lara in Turkey — View of Lara, Image: fotopanorama360 / shutterstock

It is almost a bit surprising that Lara officially belongs to the city of Antalya , after all, it is a good 15 kilometers from the city center. The district has developed especially in the last twenty years. While Lara was known in the beginning mainly for very low prices on the Turkish Riviera, today there is a great infrastructure with hotels in various price ranges. A good base for visitors has also recently developed, from a variety of restaurants and cafes to a small shopping center, where you can pass the time on vacation.

The real magic of Lara does not come from the many new hotels and buildings, but above all from the beautiful nature in which you can enjoy your holiday here. Above all, the kilometre-long sandy beach invites you to linger and offers just the right basis for relaxation and fun in the sea. With the newly developed paths and the many small parks that have been created around the hotels, you always move a bit in the countryside and you can just tell Lara that the district in this form is actually only a few years old and has fully adapted to the well-being of the tourists of Antalya.

Sights and recommended excursions for your holiday in Lara

Hadrian's Gate in Antalya — Hadrian’s Gate in Antalya, Image: IgorKR / shutterstock

Lara itself is perfect for planning a holiday with relaxation but also excursions in the immediate region due to its location. Antalya is of course the first place you should have seen. Both with private transfers, which are offered by most hotels, and by bus, you can be in the center of Antalya within a very short time, which is actually not as big as you imagine. Antalya is a small city in comparison, but it certainly has its history. Especially the impressive harbor should be visited – here you will also find some very good restaurants, which have quite reasonable prices for being in a hotspot for tourists.

Whether it’s the Hidirlik Tower or Hadrian’s Gate – the traces of the Romans can still be found in the city today. Above all, however, the old town is just right for a stroll through the narrow streets, where you can look at some of the beautiful old houses and go to one of the bazaars. Of course, you should not miss this when visiting Turkey. Countless goods of all kinds are offered here and haggling over the price is quite welcome. Above all, you should try some of the fresh fruits, which always taste a little sweeter on holiday.

A visit to the ruins in Side should also be planned. Here you can admire how the former cultures have settled this stretch of land long before the Middle Ages and thus the awakening began in Europe. It is not for nothing that Antalya is one of the cradles of humanity and it was here that the foray of many successful cultures began, the traces of which can still be found everywhere in Europe today.

If you like it a bit more modern, there are many options not only in Antalya, but also in the immediate vicinity of Lara. On the long sandy beach, there are numerous activities in and around the water. In addition, there are a wide variety of amusement parks and water parks for families or swimmers, which have adapted to tourists and offer a great offer. Lara is still growing and more and more shops can be found again, its own bazaar has already been found and today you don’t have to go to Antalya anymore if you want to experience a great shopping or a nice evening.

Soak up the culture of the region

If you decide to spend a holiday in Lara, Side or simply in the Antalya region in general, you should take the chance to let the culture of this unique region work its magic on you. A visit to a bazaar is only part of it, but it is especially worth exploring the coast, a visit to the many small coastal villages and towns that are not yet geared towards tourists. Here you will find some of the best restaurants with great prices and the local cuisine. Together with the various ancient ruins that can be found everywhere in the region, it is worthwhile to rent a car, for example, to simply explore Antalya on your own and discover new things that cannot be found in the travel guide.

Croatia – A pearl on the Adriatic Sea

Croatia

PatrickJullien

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27. May 2022

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Croatia with its numerous islands and bays, romantic harbour towns, luxurious accommodation and the impressive mountainous region in the interior of the country has a lot to offer holidaymakers interesting and eventful. In addition to more than 1200 islands, the water-rich country also has mountains up to 1800 m high to offer. Cities steeped in history alternate with cinematic backdrops and seemingly untouched nature. For example, it is not only since the movie “Game of Thrones” that the ancient buildings in Split such as Diocletian’s Palace or the Krka National Park, where large parts of the “Winnetou” films were filmed, have belonged.

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Swimming on the Croatian coast

The Winnetou films were filmed in the Krka National Park, Image: Seumas Christie-Johnston / shutterstock

The Croatian coast in particular is a paradise for sailors, sun worshippers and water sports enthusiasts. More than 1770 km of coastline and over 1100 islands make Croatia a destination for holidaymakers from all over the world every year. Located directly off the Dalmatian coast , each of the islands offers a very special flair with its secluded bays, azure blue sea and impressive landscape. Whether you are looking for peace and quiet or party enthusiasts – everyone is sure to find their very special favourite place here. The island of Krk with more than 2500 hours of sunshine and the beautiful island of Rab with its extraordinary beaches are very popular.

Impressive nature and national parks

Croatia also impresses with numerous nature and national parks. At the foot of the steeply rising Dinaric Mountains there are beautiful coastal towns and agricultural regions with vines, olive trees and orange groves. Nature lovers in particular will be delighted by the Vela Draga Nature Reserve in the Učka Nature Park near Rijeka. In addition to the limestone columns that rise up to 100 m, the waterfalls and caves are impressive in this canyon-like valley. Also worth seeing is the “Blue Grotto” on the island of Biševo near Vis, which can definitely compete with Capri .

The largest islands of Croatia

In a separate article from May 26, 2022, we have summarized the largest islands in Croatia :

Krk – a natural paradise in the Kvarner Bay
Cres – a dream destination for hikers and swimming enthusiasts
Brač – one of the most beautiful beaches in Croatia
Hvar – the neighboring sister island of Brač introduces itself
Pag – cheese as a speciality of the island
Korčula – the alleged birthplace of Marco Polo
Dugi Otok – Telašćica Nature Park as the main attraction of the island
Mljet – a forested beauty in the south of Croatia

Sights in Croatia

Sailing in Croatia — Explore Croatia’s islands by boat – a holiday that will be remembered forever. Image: xbrchx / shutterstock

Croatia can boast several sites that are part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Humanity. With the ancient complex of the city of Split, the old town of Dubrovnik , as well as the historic city of Trogir, there are numerous special sights throughout the country. Dubrovnik, a Croatian city, is also a popular destination for tourists from all over the world, which, together with Hvar , is now often compared to Ibiza or Marbella. Also worth seeing are the cities of Pula and Zadar with their Colosseum and an artificially built sea organ, which plays an impressive melody only through the waves of the sea.

Travel information Croatia

Capital	Zagreb
Form of government	Parliamentary Republic Parliamentary democracy
Currency	Kuna (HRK)
Area	56,594 km²
Population	approx. 4,190,670 (as of 2016)
Languages	Croatian
Electricity grid	230 volts, 50 Hz
Area code	+385
Time zone	UTC+1 CET UTC+2 CEST (March to October)