15 routes on which you can easily travel in a climate-conscious way
Sustainable choices are taking up more and more space in everyday life. Significantly more people want to take responsibility and change their behavior for the sake of the climate. This is also shown by a recent YouGov survey commissioned by the travel search engine Omio. The representative survey showed that travelers from Germany are willing to make some compromises for the sake of the environment: More than one in three (39 percent of respondents) would accept a travel time up to 30 minutes longer if the trip were more sustainable. For more than one in five (23 percent), a travel time of up to 60 minutes longer would even be justifiable, and twelve percent would even accept a two-hour longer journey.
Three routes in which the train is significantly faster than the airlines are (source: Omio):
Frankfurt am Main <> Cologne
124 min. faster by train than by plane and saves 25 kg of emissions
Hanover <> Frankfurt am Main
27 min faster by train than by plane and saves 33 kg of emissions
Stuttgart <> Paris
15 min. faster by train than by plane and saves 74 kg of emissions
It is hardly surprising that members of GenZ are much more concerned about the environment. In this group, 69 percent of respondents accept a longer travel time in favor of the climate, compared to only 56 percent of the population as a whole. In general, respondents in Germany are quite willing to use the train instead of the plane. Almost one in two respondents (45 percent) say they prefer trains to planes if the connection is faster. The long-distance bus, on the other hand, is not so well received. When deciding between bus or plane, the price seems to play a role above all. One in five respondents would choose the bus if the ticket was significantly cheaper.
Routes in which the train is not significantly slower than the plane (source: Omio):
Frankfurt am Main <> Paris, +22 min., but 63 kg emissions saved
Frankfurt am Main <> Munich, +30 min., but 38 kg emissions saved
Berlin <> Food, +32 min., but 49 kg emissions saved
Düsseldorf <> Hamburg, +34 min., but 47 kg of emissions saved
Frankfurt am Main <> Amsterdam, +39 min., but 48 kg emissions saved
Munich <> Zurich, +41 min., but 43 kg of emissions saved
Munich <> Vienna, +42 min., but 62 kg of emissions saved
Hamburg <> Frankfurt am Main, +44 min., but 68 kg of emissions saved
Berlin <> Munich, +47 min., but 48 kg of emissions saved
Hanover <> Amsterdam, +55 min., but 47 kg of emissions saved
Berlin <> Frankfurt am Main, +58 min., but 49 kg of emissions saved
<> Cologne Hamburg, + 59 min., but 195 kg emissions saved
The summer holidays are now over and we are getting closer and closer to autumn. But that doesn’t mean that you have to hide at home now and wait for spring. No. Quite the opposite: Even in the autumn and winter months, there are great places to discover throughout Germany. And if you prefer to wait until it gets warm again, you can keep the places presented here in mind, because they are beautiful to look at in summer and winter.
Relaxing at Lake Constance, Image: Yolo Art / shutterstock
The first region that we recommend everyone to visit is the Lake Constance region in the south of Germany. This is where the national borders of Switzerland, Germany and Austria meet on Lake Constance. The result is a great mix of snow-capped mountain peaks in Switzerland and Austria on the one hand, as well as great lidos on the German side and above all Meersburg Castle on the other side. There is really something to discover and experience here in any weather.
Berlin
From the south, it goes to the northeast of the country. This is where the capital of the Federal Republic is located: Berlin. In the meantime, however, Berlin is much more than just the capital of Germany. It is a melting pot of cultures where the most diverse people and ways of life come together and create a unique cultural mix. From the well-known shopping mile on Kudamm to Alexanderplatz, there are many attractions and sights from Germany’s eventful history. The Spielbank Berlin, which was founded in 1975, is also worth a visit, although today you can also gamble away real money directly on your own PC or mobile phone thanks to online casinos such as the NetBet Casino . The odds in online casinos are usually even better than in classic gambling halls. In addition, a visit to the fragments of the Berlin Wall as well as to the Victory Column and the Brandenburg Gate is absolutely and really worth a visit at any time of the year.
The Harz Mountains
From the hustle and bustle of the city we move back into nature. More precisely, to northern Germany, where the Harz Mountains , the highest mountain range in northern Germany, run through the federal states of Lower Saxony, Saxony-Anhalt and Thuringia. The highest point of the elevation, which belongs to the summit group of the low mountain range, is the well-known Brocken. But even beyond the Brocken, the Harz has something for everyone. Especially the Devil’s Wall a little north of the Harz Mountains, which stretches over a length of 20 kilometers, is worth a visit. The elevation appears to have been created by unnatural forces and vividly demonstrates the work of tectonic plate shifts in Germany as well.
Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania
Rügen is one of numerous holiday highlights in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, Image: Sina Ettmer Photography / shutterstock
We stay in the north of the Federal Republic and move to the outermost tip and the northernmost state of Germany: Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania. Here, the country has a lot to offer in terms of nature and holiday factor. Not only is the Mecklenburg Lake District located here. No. The way to Rügen to the Königsstuhl is also not far. The majestic contrast of white rocks and blue sea can enchant the observer in a split second and make you forget all stress. According to tradition, the 118-metre-high chalk cliff gets its name from the fact that the Swedish King Charles XII led a naval battle against the Danes from here.
Saalfeld Fairy Grottoes
Now it’s back to the east of the Federal Republic, more precisely to Thuringia. Here, visitors can expect a very special natural spectacle and an extraordinary sight. The Saalfeld fairy grottoes seem to have fallen out of time. The stalactite cave has developed over time and tells numerous stories. But the origin is not, as one might assume, supernatural beings, but mining work in the Thuringian Slate Mountains. Today you can explore the caves on foot and by boat and enjoy the numerous colorful chambers. There is guaranteed to be something for every visitor.
The state of Texas is the second largest state in the United States of America, both in terms of area and population. The state’s more than 29 million inhabitants live in a varied landscape that is home to mountains, deserts and coastal areas. On the south side of Texas, the state of Mexico borders to the west and the Gulf of Mexico bay to the east. In addition, Texas looks back on an eventful history in which the state was under the influence of various states.
The population of Texas is diverse due to the state’s history: while almost half of the inhabitants can be classified as white, about 40% have a Hispanic background. The white population are descendants of former European immigrants. The largest proportion is of German descent, followed by Irish and English descent. The Hispanic population is usually descendants of the Spanish occupiers. After Texas was able to break away from the Spanish occupiers in 1821, they joined the state of Mexico . In 1936, however, today’s federal state succeeded in becoming an independent republic. Another 9 years later, Texas was admitted to the U.S. Confederation, whose condition continues to this day.
Economically, Texas is enriching itself in particular from the oil and natural gas deposits in the state. Of all states in the USA , Texas has the highest oil production rate. In addition, agriculture and livestock farming is very pronounced. As a result, a large food industry also emerged, which was locally integrated into agriculture and livestock farming. Overall, Texas accounts for over 8% of the total GDP of the United States.
Texas cuisine is directly influenced by the history of the state: The dishes are characterized by the generous use of chili, which has Mexican origins. In addition, barbecue plays a relevant role in the everyday life of Texans, which is a special cooking method. Due to its relevance, the “International Barbeque Cookoff” takes place annually, where various barbecue dishes are offered to visitors worldwide.
But sport also has a great significance in the southern state of the USA. Texas can boast at least one team in the respective top national leagues in basketball, American football, baseball, ice hockey and, more recently, football. At the Dallas Mavericks basketball club, the German star player Dirk Nowitzki was active until 2019.
Major Cities in Texas
The Alamo in San Antonio, Image: Dean Fikar / shutterstock
While a total of 41 cities in Texas are home to over one hundred thousand inhabitants, only three cities have more than one million inhabitants: Houston, San Antonio and Dallas.
With over 2.3 million inhabitants, Houston is the largest city in Texas. The city is located directly on the Gulf of Mexico and has grown in size thanks to the brisk shipping traffic. Even today, large quantities of oil products are shipped through the port of Houston. Various large companies have settled here due to the infrastructural location.
The city of San Antonio is the oldest city in Texas, founded in 1735 by the Spanish colonial empire. Due to its southern location, San Antonio is still strongly influenced by Spanish, Mexican, German and Anglo-American influences. The city is considered a figurehead of the cultural diversity that exists in Texas.
With over 1.3 million inhabitants, Dallas is the third largest city in Texas. A variety of railroad lines make the city the Texas center for the transportation of oil and cotton. However, the computer and financial services industry is also strongly represented in Dallas .
The capital of the state of Austin is only the fourth largest city in Texas. The city is particularly characterized by the high number of students. In addition, the city is home to many music clubs and is the venue for concerts and live music.
Texas is home to breathtaking nature, which is reflected in the national parks, among other things. In particular, the Big Bend National Park and the Guadalupe Mountains National Park impress with unique rock formations, raging rivers and canyons that invite you to hike and visit. In addition, the second largest canyon in the United States can be found – the Palo Duro Canyon. With a length of 193 kilometers and an average width of 10 kilometers, it is one of the largest specimens in the world.
The history and culture of the country can be found above all in the Alamo museums in San Antonio and the Museum of Fine Arts in Houston. While the former is a former fort that deals with the recent Texan past, the latter includes a collection of over 60,000 objects from all over the world, some of which date back to antiquity.
For fun, for example, the River Walk in San Antonio is a good choice. There are a variety of shops, restaurants and hotels along the river, which exude a cozy atmosphere due to their location and design. Houston is home to a world-famous zoo, which is home to various wild animals such as monkeys, giraffes and lions. The motto of the zoo is the closer coexistence of humans and animals. Texas is also home to the Six Flags Over Texas theme park, which specializes in roller coasters with different design themes.
It can be said that Texas is an exciting holiday destination from a cultural and historical point of view as well as in terms of leisure activities, which is under the radar from a tourist point of view.
San Antonio, the second largest city in the state of Texas, not only has enormous economic importance, but is also characterized by its cultural diversity. The former border settlement of the Wild West now presents itself as a modern metropolis and yet the historic city of the Alamos has not lost its charm. Picturesquely situated on the river of the same name, the city has skyscrapers as well as idyllic nature, excellent shopping opportunities and numerous sights to offer.
Founded in 1718, San Antonio is the oldest city in the state. At the time of its founding, the city was part of the Spanish colonial empire and so Spanish, Mexican and Anglo-American culture has left unmistakable traces. But the German immigrants were also increasingly drawn to San Antonio and so the German culture is also reflected in many places in the city.
The Riverwalk, city park in San Antonio, Image: Sean Pavone / shutterstock
With its unique cultural mix that combines Spanish, German and American elements, San Antonio is a very special destination. Founded under Spanish rule, San Antonio has some sights from the time of its origin. But Spanish and Mexican culture is also still formative for the city today.
An absolute highlight is the Alamos in the heart of the city. The mission station, with which the city’s history began, can now also be found on the UNESCO World Heritage List. There are a total of five Spanish missions in San Antonio, which are extremely worthwhile to visit due to the architectural features alone.
If you want to get to know the original San Antonio, you should definitely take time to visit “La Villita”. One of the first settlements was built here in the founding days and the historic Mexican Village looks back on a history spanning over 200 years and has been extensively reconstructed. Today, you can spend a lot of time in the National Historic District in the heart of the city, as numerous shops and craft workshops invite you to browse.
No less worth seeing is the King William Historic District on the south bank of the river. Here you will find dreamlike villas from the Victorian era, which were once inhabited by German traders. Before the settlement was built, the area was used as farmland by the Alamos Mission. In 1793, the land was handed over to the population in an auction and from 1860 onwards the current district was created. Due to the numerous Germans who settled here, the district also bore the name Sauerkrautschleife.
The city’s Spanish and Mexican heritage can be seen not only in historic buildings and settlements, but also in facilities such as El Mercado, the largest Mexican market outside of Mexico. If you go shopping here, you will quickly forget that you are in one of the largest cities in Texas , among clothing, jewelry, leather goods, art galleries and piñatas.
The most German city in the USA
San Antonio, Image: f11photo / shutterstock
Traces of German settlers can be found in many cities in the USA , but San Antonio plays a special role. No other city in the USA has such a rich cultural German heritage as San Antonio. Restaurants with Bavarian cosiness attract visitors and typical Bavarian beer gardens are a popular meeting place. It is also not surprising that German or at least a mixture of German and American is still spoken in many places and so it is no problem to shop in San Antonio at the German baker or German butcher. Numerous breweries in the city brew according to the German art of brewing, children learn German folk songs in schools and women in dirndl and men in lederhosen are not a rare sight in San Antonio. Where once German merchants embarked on an adventure in the “New World” in Victorian villas, their descendants now cultivate German traditions in almost all districts of San Antonio, enriching the city with German craftsmanship.
San Antonio’s little oases
San Antonio is a lively city that has a lot to offer. If you are in the mood for relaxation, you can not only visit the numerous amusement parks at the gates of the city, but also find quiet places in the city that are ideal for a little break. Peace and relaxation are offered by the Riverwalk, which is now one of the most important areas of the city. Here you will not only find a promenade with shops, galleries and cozy cafés, but you can also enjoy a boat tour or a walk along the green bank on the river.
One of the most popular parks in the city is HemisFair Park in Downtown. In 1968, the site hosted the World’s Fair, and today the park offers wonderful resting places, play facilities for children, and the Tower of the Americans offers a fantastic view over the city with its observation deck.
Woodlawn Lake Park is also an absolute recommendation. The lake in the city area is ideal for canoeing and fishing, and the park offers numerous sports facilities, picnic tables and much more. Especially enjoying the sunset on the lake is an absolute highlight.
San Antonio also has a magnificent botanical garden that is well worth a visit. However, if you want to immerse yourself in another world, you should plan a visit to the Japanese Tea Garden, which is an absolute oasis of well-being with shady walkways, a waterfall, ponds full of koi and a particularly calming atmosphere.
The Balearic Islands are made up of several island groups, a total of about 150 individual islands. These are classified in different archipelagos.
Formentera and Ibiza belong to the Pitiusas. While the Cabrera Archipelago, Menorca and Germany’s favourite holiday resort Mallorca belong to the Gymnese Islands.
The language spoken in Spain’s Mediterranean islands is divided between Spanish as spoken in Madrid and Catalan from Barcelona. By the way, the name of the Balearic Islands also has Catalan origin.
A long time ago, the Balearic Islands were defended from attackers with a slingshot, which had the name “Els Foners Balears”.
Meanwhile, the islands are among the hottest travel destinations in the western Mediterranean, which is not surprising. Wonderful sunsets, beautiful bays and nature as far as the eye can see can be expected here as a holidaymaker.
The activities on the Mediterranean islands are varied and range from strolling through the shops to discovering numerous landscapes. Water lovers are also catered for with plenty of opportunities for water sports.
Menorca and Formentera are among the smaller islands, while Ibiza and Mallorca are among the two largest.
Ibiza has been declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO for its culture. But Mallorca also knows how to convince, because the capital Palma has, among other things, a beautiful cathedral and much more.
How to get to the Balearic Islands?
La Seu, the impressive cathedral of Palma de Mallorca, Image: Boris Stroujko / shutterstock
To get to the Balearic Islands, they have two options.
On the one hand, these are easily accessible by plane from almost every airport in the world.
Because on the islands, the airports in Menorca, Ibiza and Palma de Mallorca are among the most important. Note that Formentera and La Cabrera do not have an airport and can only be reached by sea.
On the other hand, you have the option of getting to the Balearic Islands by ferry . Domestic tours between the Mediterranean islands are also offered.
If you decide to travel by sea from France to the Balearic Islands, you can take the ferry from Toulon.
Spain offers another departure option. There is a ferry from the following ports:
An evaluation shows where mountain sports enthusiasts get their money’s worth when hiking, winter sports, skiing, climbing, mountaineering and mountain biking
Out of the city, into nature: In the Alps, idyllic tranquillity, fresh mountain air, crystal-clear lakes and a unique panorama await. The diversity of the landscape guarantees an experience of nature, whether you prefer hiking, climbing, skiing or mountain biking. With an evaluation of data, the sports equipment supplier Keller Sport has looked around the five major Alpine countries to find out where outdoor enthusiasts and mountain sports enthusiasts can find particularly good conditions for outdoor fun in the Alps. The analysis looked at the tourist offer, assessed the attractiveness of the landscape on the basis of the highest peaks and national parks and shows where particularly good conditions for various mountain sports can be found.
The Alps invite you to winter sports, Image: Richard Williamson / shutterstock
The coming ski season is eagerly awaited. After the 2020/21 season was almost completely cancelled, many enthusiastic winter sports enthusiasts and also the tourism industry are hoping for an early start, an extra thick snow cover and, if possible, no incidents in connection with the coronavirus. What is certain is that the new season will be characterized by hygiene rules, 3G and mandatory masks. Austria in particular is broadly positioned in terms of tourism with around 16,000 overnight stays and 997 mountain huts. Germans in particular are hot for winter sports, the study shows.
Climbing and mountaineering
The most fearless alpine athletes are probably climbers and mountaineers by far. Hardly any slope is too steep, hardly any weather too bad when it comes to climbing up the peaks of Europe’s largest high mountain range. Probably the most famous Alpine panorama in the Swiss Alps, there are 191 peaks over 3,000 metres and 48 peaks over 4,000 metres (with 300 metres of prominence). In terms of numbers, however, Switzerland is surprisingly topped by the Italian Alps. They have 217 peaks over 3,000 meters and 38 peaks over 4,000 meters. One of the most famous mountain ranges in the Italian Alps are the Dolomites.
Wander
Hiking inspires young and old, Image: Dudarev Mikhail / shutterstock
One of the most popular outdoor activities in the Alps is hiking. The selection of unique hiking routes is huge. The longest network of hiking trails can be found in the Italian Alps with a total of 60,000 kilometers, followed by Austria with 50,000 kilometers and France with 46,000 kilometers. Trend data, which were also analysed in the evaluation, show that Switzerland is the most popular Alpine country among hikers. A total of 287 mountain huts along the Swiss routes, which stretch through the Swiss Alps over a length of 22,000 kilometres, offer opportunities to rest.
Mountain biking
With the growing prevalence of bikes with electric motors, excursions along more challenging routes and trails are also becoming increasingly popular. The Alpine countries offer a wide variety of different routes, from adventurous and stony trails with jumps to long panoramic routes with plenty of resting opportunities. As the venue for the Tour de France, one would think that the French Alps offer particularly good conditions for mountain bikers. The evaluation confirms this assumption, at least in part. On a multi-day tour through the French Alps, 718 campsites, more than 17,000 other overnight accommodations and 159 mountain huts await you to stop and linger.
Result
The picturesque mountain worlds of the Alps offer outdoor fans such a multifaceted selection of possibilities as hardly any other region in Europe. Whether in Germany, Austria, Italy, France or Switzerland, all countries offer some form of action during the day and something to relax in the evening. In the overall evaluation of the study, the sports outfitter selects Italy as the “ultimate Alpine country”. The Italian Alpine regions offer the best conditions for an active holiday in the mountains, according to the explanation.
Are you longing for the perfect combination of relaxation and adventure? Then a holiday on a houseboat is the right thing for you: enjoy the sun on deck while you sail through idyllic river and lake landscapes. You are completely free to design your trip: Whether you want to relax in the sun, swim in a secluded bay, do water sports, fish, or prefer to visit cities is entirely up to you. As you explore the rivers, lakes, and canals on your route, you don’t have to sacrifice the comforts of home. Renting a houseboat is not only incredibly diverse, but also easier than you might think. Create unforgettable memories!
Most houseboats can now be rented without hesitation without prior knowledge or experience. The regulations vary depending on the area and region, but many of the most beautiful houseboat areas can already be navigated with a charter license. For the license, only about three hours of instruction on the steering of the boat is required and it is valid for the entire rental period. This briefing is usually carried out directly by the boat owner for a small extra charge. You go through theory and practice together – and you’re ready to go! Take this opportunity to inquire with your landlord about the locks and lock opening hours in your holiday area.
There are many good reasons to rent a houseboat
Houseboat in Amsterdam, Image: Kite_rin / shutterstock
Renting a houseboat is becoming more and more popular, and not without reason: In addition to being close to the water, you have the luxury of having comfortable accommodation with your means of transport on a houseboat! Discover the most beautiful places and enjoy the amenities of your floating apartment. You don’t have to back down: Most houseboats today are modernly furnished and equipped with everything you could wish for. They usually have a kitchen, bathroom, living room and sleeping area and are large enough for families or groups of friends with a capacity of up to 12 sleeping places.
Independence and flexibility are a big bonus of the houseboat. As your own captain, you’ll enjoy the freedom to customize your vacation as you see fit. Whether you anchor in secluded bays or busy harbours is entirely up to you. Take the opportunity to go swimming whenever you feel like it and then dry off on the deck in the sun. Bathing fun for young and old is guaranteed!
When you holiday on a houseboat, you may be staying on the water, but you can go ashore whenever you want for walks and explore the places along the way. Discover not only picturesque lakes and river landscapes on your houseboat adventure, but also culture, history and culinary delights on land!
Where can you go? The most popular houseboat destinations
There are many dream destinations that are made to be explored by houseboat. The most popular houseboat areas are even nearby!
Holidays at home have become increasingly popular not only since the Corona pandemic. With over 1000 lakes and numerous waterways, Germany is the perfect destination for a boating holiday. The most famous houseboat regions are in the northeast, where an almost endless river and lake landscape awaits you. One of the most popular destinations is certainly the Mecklenburg Lake District. The entire area can be navigated without a licence and is extremely beginner-friendly due to the few locks. The Müritz, an inland lake in the heart of the Great Lake District, is particularly appreciated by recreational captains. The Berlin and Brandenburg waters can also be navigated by houseboat. However, a boat license is required for a boat tour through Berlin’s city center along historic places such as the Reichstag and Museum Island. The numerous tributaries of the Havel offer an endless selection of routes and anchoring opportunities, even for beginners. The river is connected to numerous bathing lakes and the towns on its banks provide a beautiful panorama along the route.
With its numerous waterways, rivers, canals and sea, the Netherlands is also one of the most beautiful destinations for a houseboat charter. The Dutch metropolis of Amsterdam is particularly beautiful from the water. What better way to explore the “Venice of the North” than on a trip through the typical canals. They stretch all over the city and take you past important landmarks. Friesland in the north of the country is also known for its enchanting water landscapes. It is particularly suitable for family trips by boat. In South Holland you sail past typical windmills and blooming tulip fields – a ride through a picture-book panorama!
France is considered the country of water tourism par excellence: countless waterways run through the entire country and connect the various waters of the regions with each other. One of the most popular areas for new houseboat captains is the Canal du Midi in the south of the country. Past the picturesque southern French city of Toulouse , it reaches into the Mediterranean. A tour on the Nantes-Brest Canal takes you across Brittany in northwestern France. Experience breathtaking natural landscapes and discover the traditional history and culture of the “Grande Nation” from the water!
Cincinnati is the third largest city in Ohio and offers numerous attractions with its historic architecture, diverse cultural offerings and sports scene. What can you expect from this city, which is also called the “Paris of America”, “Athens of the West” or “Queen City”? Here are some highlights that can make a trip to Cincinnati unforgettable.
The Contemporary Arts Center is an art museum in Cincinnati. The building that has housed this museum since 2003 was designed by architect and Pritzker Prize winner Zaha Hadid. The museum does not have a permanent exhibition, but concentrates on new developments in painting, sculpture, photography, architecture and performance art with changing exhibitions. This principle led this museum to exhibit many early works by artists who later became famous, such as Andy Warhol, in the past.
Another very worthwhile destination for art lovers is the Cincinnati Art Museum. This has a collection of more than 67,000 works. Among them are paintings by such well-known artists as Peter Paul Rubens, Frans Hals, Lucas Cranach the Elder and Andrea Mantegna.
Sports facilities
Sports fans can visit several stadiums and arenas in Cincinnati that play baseball, American football, basketball, ice hockey, and soccer. The baseball team of the Cincinnati Reds – five-time winner of the “World Series” – plays its home games in the Great American Ball Park, which has space for more than 40,000 spectators. Even larger is the Paul Brown Stadium with 65,000 seats. This stadium is the home ground of the Cincinnati Bengals American football team. Ice hockey fans can attend Cincinnati Cyclones games at the Heritage Bank Center. Since 2015, football fans have also been getting their money’s worth: In this year, FC Cincinnati was founded, which plays in the 26,000-seat TQL Stadium.
Since 1999, the “Flying Pig Marathon” has taken place every year on the first Sunday in May. A total of more than 30,000 athletes will take part in the weekend’s running events.
Parks in Cincinnati
Out and about in Piat Park, Image: Jeffrey Dean Tyler / shutterstock
If you just want to relax with a walk in the countryside, you can stroll through Piatt Park in Cincinnati, the oldest park in the city. Here you can walk in the shade of the trees or see the statues of the two US presidents from Ohio – James A. Garfield and William Henry Harrison.
Eden Park is much more extensive. From here you can overlook the Ohio River and spot the neighboring state of Kentucky on the opposite bank. In this park is the Krohn Conservatory, a well-known greenhouse with a palm garden, bonsai collection, orchid exhibition and tropical house.
Cuisine
Cincinnati has many culinary options, from gourmet restaurants to bars (“Arnold’s Bar and Grill”), ice cream parlors (“The Creamy Whip”) and burger joints (“Zip’s Cafe”). A special regional specialty is Cincinnati chili, a spicy meat sauce used with pasta and hot dogs. The Taste of Cincinnati festival attracts over 500,000 visitors each year. It always takes place in May on Memorial Day. More than 40 restaurants take part in the festival each time with their creations and compete for numerous prizes.
Attractions in Cincinnati
The Music Hall
If you like classical music, you should definitely visit the Cincinnati Music Hall. It is a magnificent building designed in the Venetian Gothic style, completed in 1878 and listed as a historic monument since 1975. In the large main hall, the Springer Auditorium, there is room for more than 2200 listeners. The ceiling of the hall is decorated with magnificent paintings and, since the 1970s, has also been equipped with the now famous Music Hall chandelier, on which there are 96 individual light bulbs. In this grandiose atmosphere, you can enjoy performances by the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra, the Cincinnati Ballet or the Cincinnati Pops Orchestra.
The Tyler Davidson Fountain, also known as the “Genius of Water,” is one of Cincinnati’s landmarks and is one of the most recognizable works by German sculptor August von Kreling. The fountain, built in 1871, is one of the most visited sights in the region. It is located in the center of Fountain Square and is surrounded by hotels, restaurants, shops, and office buildings. The impressive bronze sculpture in the middle of the fountain is 13 meters high.
The Aronoff Center
The Aronoff Center opened in 1995. Here, the inclined culture lover can attend musicals, plays, concerts and stand-up comedy shows. The building was designed by star architect César Pelli.
Oktoberfest Zinzinnati
Oktoberfest Zinzinnati is based on the German Oktoberfest and is considered the largest event of its kind in the USA. Here you can choose from over 100 different types of beer and marvel at numerous fun activities: the dachshund race “Running of the Wieners”, the supposedly “world’s largest duck dance”, the “Cosiness Games” and bratwurst eating competitions.
Indianapolis is a large city in the Midwest of the United States of America and has almost 800,000 inhabitants. Indianapolis is also the capital of Indiana. The state borders Michigan to the north and Ohio to the east.
The landscape of Indiana is characterized by two geographical regions of the United States: the Central Lowland and the Interior Low Plateau.
Racing fans in particular know Indianapolis for its car races, which have been thrilling audiences for more than a century. The first 500-mile race was held in Indianapolis in 1911. In addition, there is a nature-loving, relaxed Indianapolis that is waiting to be discovered. The city is home to botanical gardens, nature reserves and parks such as the “Butterfly Paradise”.
Indianapolis is considered an economic metropolis, city of sports and cultural center. Although Indianapolis isn’t primarily cultural, the city has a lot of culture to offer. Indianapolis is considered the venue for trade fairs, exhibitions, festivals that the city organizes itself and other events on a national level.
This means that there is never a dull moment in Indianapolis. Highlights of architecture in the city include the Capitol, modern buildings, and structures from centuries past.
Indianapolis 500 – One of the most famous car races in the world
The city is best known for the oldest car race in the world (Indianapolis 500). Another special feature is the Monument Circle, which is nicknamed the “Circle City” of the city of Indianapolis.
Sights and attractions in Indianapolis
Skyline of Indianapolis, Image: f11photo / shutterstock
One of the city’s most famous sights is the Indianapolis Motorspeedway, which opened at the beginning of the 20th century. It is home to the world’s largest one-day sporting event (Indy 500), which attracts visitors from all over the world.
The Children’s Museum
This children’s museum is considered the largest museum of its kind in the world. Above all, the presentation of the areas of knowledge according to the motto: “Touch and participate” offers children an exciting insight into many topics. The museum also offers climbing opportunities, a planetarium and an amusement park. For families, there is no way around the Children’s Museum.
But in addition to fun for children, Indianapolis offers gastronomy and nightlife at its best. If the children are tired after a visit to the Children’s Museum – no problem. Enjoy the city’s nightlife and culinary delights.
The Indianapolis Zoo and Fort Harrison Park
A must-see for children is the zoo in the city, which can be reached from any hotel in the city due to its location. Here, children will find wild animals such as elephants, giraffes and dolphins.
Fort Harrison Park provides sufficient exercise for the children. An extensive network of cycle paths runs through the site. There are also a large number of playgrounds and play zones that are equipped for children. With its picnic areas, the park allows you not to use up your wallet. Family fathers get their money’s worth when they visit the military training area, which makes up part of the site, for which permission is granted.
Tropical park or “butterfly paradise”
This is the highlight when it comes to outdoor activities. The butterfly paradise is home to many different species of butterflies and birds, including species that almost no one knows. In addition, there are a large number of bird species. There are picnic areas on the extensive grounds of the park. For this reason, it is advisable to fill your picnic basket with food and drinks before heading to the park.
The Eiteljorg Museum of American Indians and Western Art
Indianapolis Motor Speedway, Image: Jeremy Christensen / shutterstock
Furthermore, Indiana’s downtown offers the Museum of Indian Culture and Western Art. This house is one of the best museums of its kind in the eastern United States . Visitors can get an insight into Native American culture as well as Western Art and contemporary Native American art.
The Indianapolis Museum of Art
The art museum, which was built at the end of the 19th century, is surrounded by forests and sculpture gardens. It offers a variety of works of European, American and African art from the period 600 BC to the present day.
The Conner Prairie Living History Museum
This is a history museum ten kilometers north of Indianapolis. This museum vividly depicts cultural, economic and environmental changes by means of costumed actors. The changes relate to the time of the settlement of the area by Europeans. Be transported back in time to another time (mid-19th century) at this history museum, with Midwestern villages like Prairietown.
The Indiana State Museum and The Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Monument
This museum connects the history of the state, from the indigenous population to the present day. That is, it presents his development in an entertaining and instructive way.
The Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Monument is a war memorial. The memorial honors the fallen sons of Indiana in the period from the Declaration of Independence in 1776 to the end of the American Civil War.
The Art Centre
Art and sport are not mutually exclusive. This is proven by car races and the cultural center in Indianapolis. Under the roof of the art centre there are studios and exhibition halls. There are also concert halls and a library.
A visit to the art centre, which offers a surprise at almost any time, is particularly suitable for those who decide at short notice. For everyone else, the tourist center offers sufficient information about the program in the art center.
The Indiana State Capitol
The Capitol is an imposing building and a masterpiece of architecture. Years ago, the building was renovated, so that now, partly in Renaissance garb, it exudes a special dignity. Admission to the Capitol costs nothing. The same applies to the majority of the city’s sights.
Cala Ratjada in the northeast of Mallorca attracts with its enchanting beaches. There are also wonderful destinations for a beach holiday in the surrounding area. Cala Ratjada is a district of Capdepara, a well-visited tourist resort. In summer, there are extensive and atmospheric celebrations there. In the winter months, it is mainly seniors who are out and about and spend the cooler season there. In the low season, the picturesque bay is a popular destination for families with children.
From the airport, Cala Ratjada can be reached in about 60 minutes. Actually, Cala Ratjada forms two bays and not just one. For example, Cala Agulla is located on the north side, while the Font de Sa Cala is located in the southern part. Both bays have in common that there are numerous hotels there that are well visited. German tourists are particularly numerous at Cala Ratjada.
Cala Ratjada and its surroundings score with a variety of beautiful beaches that invite you to take a detour. Visitors are spoilt for choice.
Die Cala Agulla
Cala Agulla, Image: pixelshop / shutterstock
Not only one of the most beautiful beaches of Cala Ratjada, but of the entire Balearic island of Mallorca is Cala Agulla, which is located in the eastern part of the bay. The fine sandy, idyllic beach has a length of 520 meters. This makes it larger than many other beaches. The beach dunes are wonderful as a comfortable place to retreat.
Not far from Cala Agulla is a large coniferous forest. On the north side, the beach is bordered by impressive rocks. The western beach area is framed in the pine forest. For this reason, Cala Agulla is considered a “Natural Area of Special Value”. Therefore, there is also special protection.
Another plus point is the three beach bars in containers, which invite you to refresh yourself in between. In addition, during the high season, umbrellas and sunbeds are available for hire. If you would like to eat out, you can do so in the restaurant. Furthermore, pedal boats can be rented. Participation in banana rides is also possible.
If you come to Cala Agulla by car, you can park your car in a paid car park that is guarded. From the parking lot, the bay can be reached through the enchanting forest via several paths.
In the middle of Cala Ratjada is the Platja de Son Moll. It is particularly busy in the high season, but this is not surprising. The beach is not far from the center and is considered family-friendly. With its fine white sand and azure Mediterranean waters, it is an excellent destination for a swimming trip. So the Platja de Son Moll is not so popular for nothing. The many hotels in the area do not dampen the positive impression.
The Platja de Son Moll is 150 meters long and 50 meters wide. Bathers of all ages visit it regularly. It is also good for children to splash around in, because the first few meters of the beach are flat. For snacks and drinks, there is a small beach bar, which is located directly on the beach. Not far away is the beach promenade. It establishes a connection between the town centre and the beach. There are street cafés, restaurants and boutiques.
To get a beach umbrella or a sunbed, it is advisable not to go to the beach too late. Arriving by car is no problem. There are numerous free parking spaces around Platja de Son Moll.
Die Cala Gat
Cala Gat, Image: Simon Dannhauer / shutterstock
Cala Gat, which translates as “Cat’s Bay”, is ideal for swimming. In the past, many stray cats roamed the grounds, feeding on the food of the beach visitors. In the meantime, however, only a few cats live there because their spread has been significantly reduced by the authorities.
However, the dreamlike backdrop of the bay, which reaches a length of 80 meters and a width of 7 meters, has been preserved. The natural bay is surrounded by cliffs, while the coastal area is fine sand.
Die Cala Torta
There are also some beaches in the vicinity of Cala Ratjada. These include Cala Torta, which is surrounded by a natural hilly landscape and rocks. The picturesque bay is considered a pleasant quiet zone because there is neither a beach promenade nor hotels there.
The beach of Cala Torta, framed by rocky cliffs, reaches a length of about 130 meters. The sand is fine and white. The course of the waves is usually only light and moderate. Due to the northeast wind, however, it is sometimes much livelier. Snorkeling and swimming can then only be done to a limited extent.
A break from beach life can be taken in the beach bar.
Cala Molto
About three kilometres from Cala Ratjada is Cala Molto. It is surrounded by pine groves and is considered a natural area of special interest. In a way, it represents the extension of Cala Agulla and has more naturalness.
