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Qatar and the capital Doha

PatrickJullien
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Qatar and the capital Doha

The Emirate of Qatar is likely to have become a household name for most people, especially through the many discussions surrounding the 2022 World Cup. While the country itself can hardly be found on a map – actually it is only a small tip of the Arabian Peninsula – the emirate has developed into a global player in recent years. This can be seen not only in the fact that more and more major events are being held, but also in the development of the capital Doha, which is now attracting attention with impressive sights of modernity. What is worth visiting the emirate and what should you pay attention to when travelling?

Qatar’s history from a small emirate to a global player

Like all countries in the region, Qatar was created by the final collapse of the Ottoman Empire and subsequent control by the British. In 1971, it refused to join the United Arab Emirates and preferred to become independent, with its own borders and control. The fact that they could simply afford it was of course due to the valuable resources that they had found in their own national borders in the meantime. Qatar is rich not only in oil, but also in natural gas and thus plays an important role as an exporter to the entire world and is able to raise appropriate financial resources for the development of its own economy.

While contact with its immediate neighbours and the other countries of the Arab world was rather difficult, Qatar was one of the first oil states to discover that diversification of its own economy would be necessary, as the oil would eventually no longer be there. Accordingly, the company has been expanding strongly in all relevant industries for many years. Tourism plays the biggest role in Qatar’s plans, and Doha competes with Dubai when it comes to the reputation of the most exciting metropolis in the Western world. In fact, Doha is still more of an insider tip, while Dubai is developing into a destination for mass tourism.

The must-see sights of Qatar

Countdown Clock World Cup Qatar
The countdown clock to the World Cup in Qatar, Image: HasanZaidi / shutterstock

In general, a trip to Qatar is always a trip to Doha. The emirate has little to offer beyond the sights in the capital and over 90 percent of the state’s population can be found in the big city. One of the peculiarities is that there are only a few hundred thousand Qataris – most people in Doha are guest workers or foreigners who are here for certain projects and would not call the country their home. However, this does not mean that the development of recent years has not brought with it some interesting cultural peculiarities.

Doha is above all a city of views. The imposing skyscrapers that rise throughout the city are not only a sign of Qatar’s economic strength, but also include some of the best hotels in the world. With the numerous observation decks, you have a great view of the skyline, especially at night, or you can take your time for the sunset and enjoy it from some of the tallest houses in the city.

Galleria Lafayette at Katara Cultural Village
Galleria Lafayette in the Katara Cultural Village, Image: HasanZaidi / shutterstock

The fact that Doha is trying to combine modernity with the historical Arab world can be found as evidence in the various parts of the city. The Katara Cultural Village is probably one of the best examples of this. In the historical style, the former construction method in this region of the world is recalled. The buildings are decorated with works of art by Arab artists. Whether it’s a look at the amphitheatre, the planetarium or an extended trip for shopping – all this is possible without any problems in the new cultural district of Doha.

The absolute must-see on a walk through Doha is the new Museum of Islamic Art. Even from the outside, the hotel gives an idea of the passion that has gone into the construction here. Inside, some of the most impressive works of art in the Islamic world and some interesting exhibitions about the importance of art in the desert state are gathered. Art lovers in particular will get their money’s worth here for a few hours and it is a pleasant change from one or the other shopping trip in the heat in the well-cooled building.

Luxury, shopping and nightlife in the Qatari metropolis

When visiting Doha, it is inevitable that you will quickly notice that everything is new here – even if the builders make an effort to make one or the other building look historic. The crowning glory of this architecture is certainly the “The Pearl” district, which was built over the area where the Qataris once dived for pearls. Luxury brands from all over the world have settled here and the replica Venice is without question an eye-catcher.

If you want to discover Doha in a more down-to-earth way, you should definitely visit the markets such as Souq Waqif. Both day and night, life in the metropolis of Doha takes place here. Over a good coffee, you can watch locals and tourists and get an insight into how the Arab metropolis behaves after nightfall. This is probably the closest you can get to the real and unposed culture of the country.

Cybersecurity: the tourism sector is caught in the crossfire of hackers

PatrickJullien
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Cybersecurity: the tourism sector is caught in the crossfire of hackers

These days, the number of hacker attacks on the travel and tourism sector is increasing more and more. It is therefore becoming increasingly urgent for those responsible to find a suitable prevention system.

Below, you can learn more about the impact and what it all means for individuals.

Cyber attacks in the tourism sector are on the rise

Looking back on the pandemic years, the worst seems to be over now. Nevertheless, this time is still in the bones of many. The travel industry is likely to feel the same way. The Covid 19 virus has hit them particularly hard.

However, this may not seem like it at first glance. Even at the peak of the pandemic in 2020, the travel and tourism industry still contributed a total of 121.9 billion US dollars to gross domestic product. By 2028, this figure is expected to grow to 512 billion US dollars.

With these numbers, it’s no wonder that cybercriminals are also taking notice of the sector. This has been particularly evident in the last 2 years, as their attacks on the industry have become more frequent. The problem is that the attacks are not only becoming more frequent, but also becoming more sophisticated.

So the travel and tourism industry has now come to a clear conclusion: cybersecurity must become an absolute priority.

The unique challenges facing the travel and tourism industry

But it’s not just the revenue that makes the tourism sector such a popular target for hackers. For her, it is also convenient that this area is so strongly focused on the Internet. Whether it’s payments, bookings or marketing measures – almost everything takes place online here. And in the wake of the Corona pandemic, these online interactions have of course increased again. For cybercriminals, this means that they can use this industry to access sensitive data and also large sums of money.

Safety measures that every travel and tourism company should take

If customer data is lost as a result of a hacker attack, the company in question must expect a loss of prestige and, as a result, a loss of customers, as well as high fines. Especially if the data was not sufficiently secured.

Every company should be aware of this and under no circumstances do without basic security measures. These are, for example:

  • the use of secure websites
  • the use of strong passwords
  • Using reputable antivirus programs and updating them regularly
  • Control over who has access to what data

and so on.

However, these basic security measures no longer seem to be sufficient. A sound prevention system is needed.

How consumers can protect themselves

Of course, it is the responsibility of travel and tourism companies to ensure that you can book with them safely. But everyone here is also responsible for themselves in a certain respect. After all, there’s no 100% guarantee anywhere that your data won’t fall into the wrong hands.

We’ll tell you what you need to look out for when booking a flight, hotel or anything else online.

  1. Stay away from public networks

VPN while traveling
Surf safely with VPN when traveling, Image: Kaspars Grinvalds / shutterstock

Public networks are questionable anyway when it comes to security. Therefore, they should avoid them if possible. But what you definitely shouldn’t do is enter personal information somewhere when you’re logged into a public hotspot. There are often cybercriminals there who are just waiting for them to access information.

All kinds of purchases, as well as bookings and reservations, are therefore better made via your own home network.

2. Use a VPN

With a VPN, you create a protected network over which your data is transmitted in encrypted form. This means that all their online activities are well protected from the eyes of unauthorized persons. This way, no one can easily access their personal information. Their IP address is also not displayed.

This makes a VPN an optimal solution if you are on public networks.

3. Beware of scams

Unfortunately, you can also come across fraudulent offers in the travel sector again and again. To then have to find out on the day of arrival that you have booked accommodation that does not exist in reality is of course an absolute horror idea.

However, there are a few points where you can tell that an offer is likely to be a scam:

  • Extremely cheap offers
  • Booking via unknown travel providers
  • No personal communication with the provider
  • Imprint on the website is missing or incomplete
  • Increased negative reviews on the Internet
  • Provider provides false information about travel locations or accommodations
  • the pictures all look very professional and staged
  • any seals of approval do not lead to the exhibitor’s website

If it has actually happened and they have fallen for a scam, then it is time to act quickly. First of all, you can try to get the money you have already paid back from your bank.

Everything that has to do with the fake booking, from messages to receipts, should be kept in any case. They need this if they then file a criminal complaint with the police in the next step.

If they are still unsure whether they have fallen for a scam, they can contact the responsible consumer advice centre. Often the question can be clarified here.

Top tips for renting a car in Mallorca

PatrickJullien
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Top tips for renting a car in Mallorca

If you take a trip to Mallorca, you will certainly not only want to lie on the beach on the beautiful Balearic island, but also explore special areas. This is possible if you choose the right rental car for you and if you also know the traffic rules on the island. We give you the most important tips on what to look out for when choosing.

Attention traffic rules – everything is different in Mallorca

Mobility in Mallorca is important, car rental in Mallorca with ROIG works optimally. But before you get behind the wheel and set off, you need to learn the traffic rules on the island. You can drive from the age of 18, but you can only rent a car from the age of 21. The driver’s license must have been in your possession for at least one year.

It is important to note that there are special speed limits in Spain . In built-up areas, you are allowed to drive a maximum of 50 km/h, and 90 km/h is allowed on country roads. Motorways are an exception, where you are allowed to accelerate up to 120 km/h. The regulations are also strict with regard to drinking and driving. If you have had your driving licence for less than two years, you may have a maximum of 0.3 per mille in your blood, drivers with a longer driving licence may have a maximum of 0.5 per mille in your blood!

It pays to book your rental car in good time

Car Rental Palma
A visit to Palma de Mallorca is a must, Image: lunamarina / shutterstock

Prices are regulated by supply and demand. When many bookings come in, cars become more expensive. Therefore, book before your trip and then you can look forward to your dream car. Also keep in mind that you plan the return carefully, one day is valid for 24 hours at the car rental. A sufficient time buffer is therefore important.

Insurance is also crucial. If you choose a fully comprehensive insurance with no excess, you don’t have to worry and you can drive through the streets of Mallorca. However, it should be borne in mind that the statutory minimum insurance in Spain is just 350,000 euros.

Don’t be deterred if the car rental company talks about other insurances. All you need is a fully comprehensive insurance with Mallorca policy, so you can drive carefree.

Check your chosen car directly at the reception

When you receive the car, you must first check it for possible errors. Before you have put your car through its paces, you should not even get in. Always keep a handover log and make a note for all defects. Important points to consider are the tread depth, the light and the lenses. If there are any defects here, have them noted. If you see stone chips, do not accept the car, as this may be a source of danger for you.

Also take a look at the wiper fluid and cooling tank and check the additional equipment for functionality. Always remember, everything you have not recorded in the handover protocol will be charged to you later in the worst case. However, a reputable car rental company will make sure that this protocol is created satisfactorily for both sides and that you do not have to worry.

Small, but pretty and nice: Cala Bona

PatrickJullien
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Small, but pretty and nice: Cala Bona

The internationally known and popular holiday resort of Cala Bona is a small district of the municipality of Son Servera in the comarca of Llevant on the east coast of Mallorca in the Bahia de Arta near Cala Millor. Cala Bona currently has about 1,100 permanent inhabitants, most of whom live from tourism. Thanks to its picturesque location in the middle of a natural harbour and the many beautiful and clean beaches, the relatively small Cala Bona has a special attraction and a lot of charm and attracts many tourists who like to return as regular guests. Travellers will also find a wide range of high-quality apartments and hotels on site, as well as fantastic restaurants, numerous shops and many excursion options in the surrounding area.

100 years ago, people here lived from fishing and not from bathers

The exact historical origins of the place are not known, but it is probably rightly assumed that the inhabitants here, as in the entire surrounding area, lived almost exclusively from fishing, agriculture and maritime trade for centuries. It was only about 100 years ago that the first holidaymakers “got lost” in this pleasantly quiet area in the northeast of Mallorca. In 1924, the first guest house was opened on site, laying the foundation for today’s approximately 15 hotels in and around Cala Bona. With the boom in tourism on the Balearic Islands from the 1960s onwards, the rapid urbanisation of Cala Bona and the larger neighbouring town of Cala Millor began. Since the late 1970s, the two places have developed considerably from picturesque fishing villages with little tourism to tourist hotspots and have now grown together practically at the height of Calle de Rafel.

Strolling, walking, cycling and enjoying specialities with a view of the Mediterranean Sea

Port of Cala Bona
Small cozy harbor of Cala Bona, Image: lunamarina / shutterstock

Thanks to the fundamental and generous redesign and expansion of the local harbour and the adjoining seafront promenade in 2006, Cala Bona has become even more attractive and attractive to visitors. In addition to the new harbour master’s building and a petrol station for pleasure boats, a specially designated and now intensively used cycle path from Son Servera via Cala Millor and Cala Bona to Sa Coma was also built at that time. Bicycles of almost all shapes and sizes can be rented by the hour or day from various providers along the route, including the versions with four or six wheels, which are particularly popular with families with children and tour groups. The main beach of Cala Bona is easily accessible from the pedestrian promenade, also suitable for the disabled, sun loungers and umbrellas can be rented for a fee. In the summer season, lifeguards are on duty there during the day.

The audience in Cala Bona is well mixed by nationality and season

Opposite the main beach there is also a manageable children’s playground, which is ideal for smaller children up to 4 years old. In Cala Bona itself there are few water sports facilities, but in Cala Millor , which is within easy walking distance and quickly accessible, there are numerous offers in this regard. In the months of June, July, August and September, Cala Bona is mainly frequented by families and younger couples. In the low season in spring and autumn as well as the months of March, April, May and October, older couples tend to spend their holidays here, and in winter between November and February, many pensioners also like to spend their holidays here. Especially with holidaymakers from Great Britain and Scandinavia, Cala Bona is quite popular as a quiet and tranquil holiday resort all year round. Groups of young people with a desire for entertainment and nightlife, on the other hand, are more drawn to the south of the island and to the resorts of Magaluf, Palmanova and Santa Ponsa.

The harbour is almost always very busy and a good starting point for excursions

However, regardless of age, the main meeting places for both locals and holidaymakers are the marina and the adjacent seafront, where restaurants with excellent Spanish and Mallorcan, Scandinavian, British, Italian and Asian cuisine are lined up. During the high season in July, August and September, however, it is advisable to reserve a table in good time, especially for lunch and dinner, due to the large crowds. In summer, souvenir dealers, street artists, jugglers, fire-eaters, musicians and dancers often meet on the promenade. There is a lot to see and observe here almost around the clock. On the “Paseo Maritimo” (beach promenade) there are also several car rental companies for rental cars. The two taxi ranks in Cala Bona are located at the entrance to the port, on the corner of Calle de la Tramuntana, as well as in the central Calle Llambies, opposite the main beach.

You can also travel well and safely to the big happy festivals by train

A narrow-gauge railway runs daily from June to September every few minutes between about 9.30 a.m. and 8.00 p.m. from Cala Millor via Cala Bona to Costa de Los Pinos. With a train change in Cala Millor, the nearby resorts of Sa Coma and S’Illot can also be easily reached. The trains as well as the streets of the area are particularly well filled before and after the big “Fiesta Sant Joan” every year on or around June 24th. Other traditional folk festivals in the region take place from mid to late July and in the last week of September. Recommended at any time of the year as scenic destinations for excursions and day trips from Cala Bona are the viewpoint at the end of the Avenida del Pinar in Costa de Los Pinos, the rocky bay of Cala Marjal next to the golf course of Son Servera and the imposing “Caves of Drach ” of Porto Cristo.

Mountains, nature, history – the state of West Virginia

PatrickJullien
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Mountains, nature, history – the state of West Virginia

When you think of West Virginia, most people probably think of the Blueridge Mountains, which are sung about in “Country Roads”, an absolute evergreen. In fact, this mountain range hardly touches the state. Nevertheless, West Virginia is best known as the state of mountains, wide landscapes and not least because of its long and important history in the big picture of the USA. The “Mountain State” is an important part of American history and has not only testimonies of this history to offer visitors, but above all a variety of national parks and impressive natural sights.

West Virginia is the area of the Appalachian Mountains and is shaped by them. The northwesternmost of all southern states not only has a long history to offer, but is also known for its beautiful mountain panoramas, which can actually be reached anywhere in the state. You can make a big distinction between the areas that have been developed for tourism over time and now serve as a tourist attraction for visitors to the state and the partly still untouched landscape that can be found far away from the cities of West Virginia.

West Virginia State Capitol in Charleston
West Virginia State Capitol in Charleston, Image: Sean Pavone / shutterstock

In general, life here in the state is closely linked to traditions and people are quite proud of the fact that life in this state turns a little slower. Industrialization is not a big problem and at the same time you have a beautiful nature that perhaps best represents the former America that the first colonists found. At the same time, many millions of visitors find their way to the Mountain State every year to enjoy this nature and to come to rest far away from the big cities and let nature work its magic on them.

To this day, West Virginia is 75% covered by forests, which is another reason why so many Americans but also tourists from overseas come here for an adventure in nature. In addition, there are around 50 state parks around a wide variety of natural sights. If you are looking for a little culture outside of nature, you will find interesting variety in Charleston, the capital of West Virginia, with its unique southern charm.

The Most Important Adventures in the Nature of West Virginia

New River Gorge Bridge, West Virginia
New River Gorge Bridge, Image: Sean Pavone / shutterstock

A good example of the lack of tourist infrastructure and thus the principle of adventure are the Allegheny Mountains. Although there are some paved hiking and cycling trails here, all in all, the mountains are still in their natural state today. Apart from a few small log cabins and villages with shops, you are completely on your own here. Mountain climbing, hiking and mountain biking are among the most popular activities in this part of West Virginia. Hikers will certainly get their money’s worth here with the untouched nature – but should prepare sufficiently for such a hike.

The view from the New River Gorge Bridge reveals the beauty of the West Virginia landscape, especially in the Indian summer. Here you can see the play of colours of the leaves that can be seen down in the valley. Of course, you can descend directly into the valley and go on a hike there as well. However, you should keep in mind that these areas are also rather undeveloped and you can sometimes be on the road for days before you meet the next sign of civilization. Good preparation should always be standard when hiking on your own in West Virginia.

If you like it a bit more infrastructure, you should stop by North Bend State Park. Here they cater to visitors from all over the world and offer not only various facilities for leisure, but also accommodation in all price ranges. With guided tours you can explore the landscape of the state park and in the evening you can exchange ideas with other visitors in a nice restaurant or at the bar about the great nature of West Virginia.

Discover the historic towns of West Virginia

In addition to the impressive nature, West Virginia also has a lot to offer culturally and historically. Whether it’s Charleston, Lewisburg, or Fayetteville, all of these cities have their own stories to tell. In Lewisburg, for example, you will find a variety of historic buildings that survived the Civil War and tell a story. By the way, a trip to Harpers Ferry – a real memorial on the Civil War Path that tells about the Civil War and its history – also fits in with this. The ghost stories of Lewisburg are suitable for young and old visitors and combine historical narratives with a little creepiness.

Charleston is above all the right place to discover the culture of West Virginia from a different side. The hospitality of the southern states is still very important here and in the many restaurants you not only get to see something of the hearty cuisine of the states, but can also learn more about the Civil War and the history of the state in one of the many museums. All in all, West Virginia is the place to be if you want to immerse yourself in the original America and learn more about this special stretch of land.

Five cost-effective tips for your trip to Denmark

PatrickJullien
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Five cost-effective tips for your trip to Denmark

Are you planning a trip to Denmark but feel like it might be a bit too expensive? Take a look at our tips below and see if you should reconsider – you’ll be amazed at how much you can save with our clever tips.

Don’t stay too long in the big cities

Of course, you don’t want to miss Copenhagen and many other larger cities, but these are often the most expensive places to eat, stay and entertain. If you go to smaller towns and more rural areas, you can reduce your costs tremendously, as the prices of accommodation – and even food – tend to be lower. Plus, you can experience all the wonderful natural beauty Denmark has to offer – and luckily, the view doesn’t cost anything! So try to divide your time between urban and natural attractions.

Find a cheap holiday home to rent

Staying in the same place for a long time can really reduce your costs – especially if you can find a holiday home Denmark at great prices . Staying in the same place for a week can significantly reduce the average cost of accommodation, and you can shop online for accommodation that fits your budget.

This may not work in a huge country, but Denmark is compact and easy to get to, so you don’t have to move to a different place every night. It’s better to stay in the same place and go to a different area every day. This also saves you time (and stress) when packing and unpacking!

Balance between eating out and eating at home

Copenhagen, Mermaid
The Little Mermaid of Copenhagen, Image: footageclips / shutterstock

Another advantage of having a holiday home in Denmark is that you can find a place where you can do some of the catering yourself to keep costs down. Save the eating out for occasional pleasure and cook a few of your dinners at home.

Not only will this give you a chance to relax after a long day, but you’ll also be amazed at how much you can save in the process. Also pack sandwiches for lunch and always take a bottle of water with you when you go exploring – you can use the money you save for other leisure activities on holiday!

Check if you can travel by alternative means of transport (e.g. a bicycle)

Instead of opting for a rental car on holiday in Denmark, you should check whether you can use public transport to get to your destination and then alternative means of transport.

Denmark has an excellent network of bicycle paths and the bicycle is indeed one of the main means of transport for the locals.

Whether you’re in the city or in the countryside, you’ll see bikes everywhere (whatever the weather!) Also, Denmark is mostly fairly flat, with occasional hills – perfect for cycling. Cycling is a fantastic way to get up close and personal with a country – if you’re passing by by car, you can miss out on a lot. At the end of your holiday, you will be fitter and more relaxed – and you will also have more money in your pocket.

Plan ahead with a City Pass

Find out if you can get a city pass to save. In Copenhagen, there’s the Copenhagen Card, which gives you free entry to dozens of museums and attractions, as well as free access to public transport in Copenhagen. Also, you can get the card for free for children under 11 years old, which is certainly easy on your budget.

Choose a card that corresponds to the number of days you will spend in Copenhagen and enjoy the savings you will have this way. With the Copenhagen Card, you can even take a cruise on the canals of Copenhagen! You can also look for similar offers in Aarhus, Odense, Aalborg and Ribe.

 

Ponza – the Italian insider tip in the Tyrrhenian Sea

PatrickJullien
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Ponza – the Italian insider tip in the Tyrrhenian Sea

“Between bougainvilleas and explosions of broom, I lose myself in the beauty of these sunsets and find my paradise on earth”.

 

This quote comes from the Nobel Prize winner for literature, Eugenio Montale, who expressed his enthusiasm for the small island of Ponza. And yet it is not one of the best-known places to go in Italy, which is otherwise so much travelled. If you visit Ponza, you are following a true insider tip that is not very well known outside Italy.

Facts about Ponza

Ponza belongs to one of the Pontine Islands and is located in the Tyrrhenian Sea, between the capital Rome and Naples. The area of 7.3 km² shows the shape of a sickle and is home to about 3,300 inhabitants, most of whom live in the main town of Ponza as well as in Le Forna on the west coast.

In earlier times, the island was often used as a place for the internment of various historically relevant personalities. Benito Mussolini and Pope Silverius, among others, were arrested here. The latter found his final resting place on the small island. And Homer also immortalized the archipelago in his Odyssey, through the legend of Odysseus and Circe.

What makes Ponza an interesting destination?

Chiaia di Luna, Ponza
The Chiaia di Luna, Image: Ciro Orabona Creative / shutterstock

Ponza is considered one of the most beautiful islands in the Mediterranean and is a very well-known and popular destination for a relaxing holiday among Italians. The rugged cliffs, wonderful white sandy beaches and the enchanting little bays offer the perfect backdrop. Since Ponza has so far been spared from mass tourism, large hotel complexes are not to be seen, and so the picture is characterized by pastel-colored houses and small hotels embedded in the architecture. The island is particularly suitable for an active holiday with hiking, snorkeling and swimming, because nature is the real star of this small island.

Which sights should be visited?

One of the absolute highlights is the main town of Ponza. Built like an amphitheatre on the water, this place has wonderful pastel-coloured houses and a cute, picturesque harbour. Here you can sit in one of the numerous restaurants with a glass of wine and pasta. Enjoy the fantastic view of the sea and la dolce vita is perfect.

Ponza also has its own legend, as a love drama is said to have taken place here at the end of the 19th century. The young Lucia Rosa is said to have jumped from a rock to her death because she was not allowed to marry her lover, who was a poor farmer.
The place is now known as the Faraglioni di Lucia Rosa and, as a viewpoint, offers a meeting place for romantics and lovers of unhappy love stories.

And Ponza, like Capri , also has its grottoes. One of the most famous is the Grotto of Pilatus, which can be found near the port of Ponza. Old statues and other decorations still bear witness to the religious benefits that this place had in times long past. The long use of the grotto is also shown by the name, which is said to go back to Pontius Pilate. For diving enthusiasts, the Secca dei Mattoni is a worthwhile destination for a walk into the depths of the sea.
Here you can visit a wreck that was discovered in 1985 at a depth of 30 meters. The Roman ship contained amphorae and other precious objects.

Ponza also offers beautiful coves and beaches with white sand and crystal clear waters for swimming.

How to get to Ponza?

Port of Ponza
Port of Ponza, Image: Vladimir Sazonov / shutterstock

The journey is by plane to Rome or Naples airport. From there, you can continue to the island by speedboat, ferry or hydrofoil. The departure is also possible from smaller towns, so that the coast between Rome and Naples can be driven in advance with a rental car before the beach holiday on Ponza begins. It should be noted that in summer only the islanders are allowed to travel by car. So if you want to spend your time here in summer, you should leave the car on the mainland.

Tips for the perfect stay in Ponza

Since the journey to the island is a bit time-consuming, enough time should be planned.
Due to the fact that Ponza is very popular with Italians and increasingly international jet set greats, it is worthwhile to plan your own travel time outside the main season. This runs from June to September, so spring and autumn are particularly suitable for getting a relaxed impression of this beautiful island. At this time, you share the island almost exclusively with locals and get an unadulterated picture of life on Ponza and the beauties of nature.

In any case, the weather plays along and still offers pleasantly warm temperatures to explore and relax on the beaches and in the bays even after the high season.

The Egadi Islands

PatrickJullien
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The Egadi Islands

The Egadi Islands are an Italian archipelago located off the west coast of Sicily. The sea in which they are located is called the Tyrrhenian Sea and is part of the Mediterranean Sea. The largest of the three Egadi islands is the island of Favignana. In addition, there are the two islands of Levanzo and Marettimo and some other smaller islands such as Maraone and Formica. In total, all Egadi Islands have an area of about 37.45 square kilometers and about 4500 inhabitants. As a travel destination, the Egadi Islands are particularly popular with Italians. But they are also considered an insider tip internationally. In addition to Italian, most residents can also communicate in English.

Journey

The Egadi Islands are best reached via the city of Trapani. This city is located on the island of Sicily and there is a flight connection from Naples to Palermo . From Trapani you can then travel by ferry to the Egadi Islands.

Climate

Cala Rossa, cove in Favignana
View of Cala Rossa bay in Favignana, Image: Fabio Lotti / shutterstock

The climate on the Egadi Islands is very mild. The mild night is considered particularly pleasant for most tourists, because the night temperatures are hardly below the daytime temperatures. The warmest months are the months of July and August, when temperatures range between 25 and 30 degrees Celsius. There is also hardly any rain during these months. The months of May, June, September and October are a little cooler with temperatures between 20 and 25 degrees Celsius. The other months also rarely show temperatures below 15 degrees Celsius, but here there are often more than five days of rain per month. Therefore, the period between May and October is particularly recommended for a beach holiday.

History

Even before the separation from the mainland, the Egadi Islands were inhabited. This is proven by finds in the Grotta del Genovese. Here, rock carvings up to 12,000 years old can be admired.

In ancient times, the Egadi Islands were the scene of a battle in the First Punic War between Carthage and Rome. Remains of the ships are still more often recovered on the coast today. These artifacts can be seen in the former tuna factories on Favignana and Formica. These former factories are now a museum and, in addition to a reconstruction of the battle, offer many exhibitions on the history of tuna fishing, which has been practiced for a long time on the Egadi Islands. Tuna is said to have been preserved with olive oil for the first time here.

Buildings

The island of Favignana offers many special buildings. Thus, in the middle and end of the 19th century, the entrepreneurs Vincenzo and Ignazio Florio, who owned the tuna factories, lived in a villa that is still frequently visited by tourists today for its external and internal charm. The church of “Matrice” and the castle of “Santa Caterina” are also important buildings on the island of Favignana. In addition, there is the Roman fortress “Casa Romana” and the Norman “Castello di Punta Troia” on the island of Marettimo.

Nature – Mainland

Marettimo
Marettimo, Image: Maurizio De Mattei / shutterstock

The Egadi Islands are wonderful for a hiking holiday. The cliffs of the island of Marettimo are very easy to hike. You can also climb Monte Falcone on this island. But there are also numerous mountain landscapes on the other islands that can provide beautiful views. The special thing about the Egadi Islands is the largely untouched nature. But even if you don’t like it so hilly, you can hike along the fine sandy beaches and enjoy the wide view of the sea.

Nature – Sea

The marine reserve around the Egadi Islands covers 53,000 hectares, making it the largest marine reserve in the Mediterranean. But not all of the sea is a protected area here, so there are also many freely accessible places. These are perfect for a boat tour. There are also numerous bathing bays here where you can also swim with children. Furthermore, nature can be observed particularly well while diving, as dives are offered on many beaches.

Culinary

As already mentioned, tuna fishing plays a major role in the Egadi Islands. Therefore, many restaurants offer tuna dishes, but also other fish dishes. In general, the Mediterranean diet is practiced on the Egadi Islands. It is considered particularly healthy and, in addition to the high consumption of fish, has large amounts of olive oil, fruit and vegetables. The Egadi Islands are also very well known for their wine. There are many wineries to visit here and then taste a fine wine.

Result
The Egadi Islands are an insider tip for holiday trips. From May to October, it is an excellent place to swim and dive. But also in the other months you can go on beautiful hikes and marvel at fascinating landscapes. In addition, the island has an important history and therefore many old buildings and museums can be visited.

The most photographed sights in the world

PatrickJullien
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The most photographed sights in the world

There is a selection of hot spots in the world that are not only considered absolute dream destinations for many people, but also end up in photos particularly often. Whether it’s the classic panoramic photo in front of a sight or a selfie with an impressive backdrop in the background – this is how you can capture memories of your holiday for eternity. The cameras of smartphones are now so powerful that you can take good mobile phone photos and thus also take excellent pictures of world-famous photo motifs.

But what are the places that are particularly often used as photo motifs? The lists have changed a bit with the introduction of Instagram, as it is now mainly a young target group that provides the data. At the same time, it has been proven that many of the buildings from the list are simply timeless classics.

1. The Eiffel Tower

Eiffel Tower Paris
The Eiffel Tower, Image: Catarina Belova / shutterstock

The city’s landmark Paris has always been considered one of the most popular travel destinations in the world and also one of the most popular motifs for photos of all kinds. Curious, actually, when you consider that after the tower was built, Parisians could hardly wait for it to disappear from the skyline again. Originally, it was only supposed to be a temporary set-up for the world fair. For decades, there was a dispute between those who saw the tower as a perfect landmark and those who thought it destroyed the historic backdrop of Paris. In the end, however, the building came and stayed and is now one of the reasons for millions of tourists who visit the French capital every year and have their picture taken with the tower. By the way, also high on the list: the Louvre.

Big Ben & Parliament

London, Big Ben
Big Ben, Image: S.Borisov / shutterstock

In London , you can’t actually walk twenty meters without coming across some historical sight worth taking a snapshot. But it is and remains the huge tower at the Parliament with its bell, known as Big Ben, that is of particular importance to visitors to London. In particular, the overall scenery with the tower and parliament can be found not only in countless photos, but also in games, puzzles and film sets. By the way, Big Ben has been serviced and reworked in recent years, has been given its historic coat of paint and now shines in a new splendor – just the perfect reason to plan a trip to London again.

3. Central Park in New York

Not a historical building, but of special significance and probably already shown in films from every angle. The oasis in the middle of the island of Manhattan in New York City is not only the green lung of the city, but also a little more valuable for visitors to take photos than the famous Empire State Building. The visit can be easily combined with a relaxing afternoon in the hectic city. Fun fact: The park is larger in area than Monaco, where the next popular attraction for photos can be found.

4. The Casino of Monte Carlo

Casino Monte Carlo
The Casino of Monte Carlo, Image: Robyn Mackenzie / shutterstock

Both the casino and the Hotel Paris in Monaco are still found particularly often in photos today. Whether this is due to the exclusivity that emanates from the city cannot be said with certainty. But the suspicion arises that it could have something to do with Formula 1 and not least with James Bond, who made this hotel Paris known to the entire world in “Goldeneye”.

5. The Burj Al Arab in Dubai

Burj Al Arab
Burj Al Arab, the most popular photo motif in Dubai, Image: LongJon / shutterstock

Dubai has not only become a popular travel destination in recent years, but with its modern backdrop and many highlights for the eye, it also offers many motifs for a good photo. Probably the most popular motif in the city, however, is without question the Burj Al Arab. The only seven-star hotel in the world not only knows how to convince with almost intangible luxury, but also with a unique architecture, which comes into its own especially at night.

6. Santa Trinità dei Monti in Rome

Santa Trinità dei Monti in Rome
Santa Trinità dei Monti at the head of the Spanish Steps in Rome, Image: AnMenshikova / shutterstock

It’s a name that even visitors to Rome might not mean anything at first glance. No wonder, many of the churches have these beautiful old names, but no one can really assign them – but which one is so famous that it makes it onto the list of the most popular photo motifs? The explanation is relatively simple – it is the church that can be found at the top of the Spanish Steps. The entire area is a central point for Rome and its travelers and one of the most popular photo motifs in the entire world.

7. Gardens by the Bay in Singapore

Gardens by the Bay in Singapore
Gardens by the Bay in Singapore, Image: Vincent.R / shutterstock

Singapore is still an exotic destination for European travellers, but it is one of the most popular destinations of longing, especially in Asia. The city itself is a cultural highlight where the most diverse cultures of Asia mix with each other. One of the city’s flagships – and thus also one of the most popular photo motifs in Asia – are the Gardens by the bay. The artificial gardens with their high hiking trails, artificial gardens, fountains and works of art are an eye-catcher for every visitor and have rightly earned their reputation as one of the most beautiful sights in the world.

Travel deals to Greece – save money when booking

PatrickJullien
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Travel deals to Greece – save money when booking

With over 3000 islands, Greece offers a breathtaking variety and countless dream beaches. The mainland also has a lot to offer, from Mount Olympus to various culturally significant places. The country offers the ideal conditions for a good mix of beach holidays and excursions. With the right package tour, this can be implemented cheaply without much planning.

Advantages of a package tour

A package tour offers the complete holiday package in one. From a hotel to the flight to the transfer from the airport to the hotel on site. This means that you invest less time in organising your holiday, because the tour operator takes care of all this. Package tours in Greece, which are also offered through travel providers such as TUI, are so popular for a reason. The tour operator, known above all for the logo with the smile, is popular with many as the tourism market leader in Germany, for example, because something suitable can be found for every wish.

If you choose all-inclusive as a meal plan for a package tour, all meals, snacks and drinks are included in the price. Often this saves you a lot of money compared to travel, where you have to pay for all drinks and restaurant visits individually. In many hotels, a tour guide with German language skills is available to you. If questions or concerns arise along the way, this can be clarified in a relaxed manner on site. There you will also find support in planning activities. You can book many activities directly with the tour guide and thus save yourself research effort. But beware – in many cases you can save money by booking activities and excursions with local providers. A little research on site can’t hurt and you can explore the immediate surroundings of the hotel at the same time.

Summer holidays in Greece

Zakynthos, Navagio Bay, Ionian Islands
The famous Navagio Bay on Zakynthos, Image: StockBrunet / shutterstock

What is the weather like in Greece? The country has a Mediterranean climate and offers its visitors hot and dry summers that provide plenty of time for sunbathing. For this reason, the best time to travel is from May to October.

The season for summer holidays is significantly longer than in other destinations in the Mediterranean. Due to the diversity of the islands and different landscapes, Greece will not be boring even on several trips. Sports fans may be wondering if there are water sports opportunities on holiday in Greece – but even here the country has enough activities to offer so that everyone gets their money’s worth.

The small and larger inhabited islands are particularly attractive, with beaches that vary from fine sand to pebbles. The Navagio beach on Zakynthos is world famous for the shipwreck lying in the sand and clear, turquoise water. But there are also many beaches that are less known and therefore more lonely. In Crete, many hotels are located directly on white sandy beaches, over which miles of walks are possible.

Culture to experience

But where is it most beautiful on the Greek mainland? It would definitely be a shame to enjoy only the beaches in Greece. The country’s long history makes for a wide range of exciting sights. On a holiday on the mainland, a trip to Athens is a good idea. In addition to the famous Acropolis, there are many excavation sites in the middle of the city that can be explored on foot.

Meteora attracts with fascinating rock formations and 24 monasteries, which are protected as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Tranquility and tradition can be found on Hydra. There are almost no cars there, but donkeys and carriages are used to get around. Also a UNESCO World Heritage Site is the amphitheater of Epidaurus, the most important in Greece. In Santorini, you can admire white houses with blue roofs that stand out against the deep blue sea and offer the ideal photo motif.

Enjoy Greece

Moussaka, Greek food
Moussaka, a popular Greek dish, Image: Nina Firsova / shutterstock

Culinarily, Greek cuisine tempts with many summer dishes. Garlic, olives, fresh vegetables and lamb are characteristic. The dishes are complemented by aromatic Greek wine. But the Greek specialty you shouldn’t miss is an original moussaka. In the end, however, there is something for every taste. Many family recipes are also passed down from generation to generation, so that the food becomes something very special.

Result

A package tour is a good starting point for exploring Greece. With the beach right on your doorstep, you can go on exciting excursions. Booking a package tour can save not only money, but also the time for elaborate organization. This way the anticipation of the holiday can be enjoyed even more and during the holiday itself you can optimally unwind.

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