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Experience the real Central America with a small-group tour

PatrickJullien
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Experience the real Central America with a small-group tour

There is so much to see and experience in Central America that it is difficult to plan the itinerary yourself. Because if you don’t know your way around, you might miss some of the most beautiful sights. But even the usual group tours by bus are not a solution, because they usually only visit well-known tourist attractions. An alternative is travel in small groups. They also usually lead to places that are away from the tourist crowds. It’s not just more tranquil there. Visitors from abroad are also welcomed here as guests and not as a pure source of income. This enables personal encounters with the people of the country, many of whom still pursue a traditional way of life that has long since disappeared in the tourist hotspots. Small group tours are therefore a good way to experience Central America in an authentic way.

What are the advantages of a small group trip?

Group tour Central America
Getting to know Central America in a group, Image: Dmitry Molchanov / shutterstock

On a round trip in a small group, participants benefit from the expertise and experience of the organizers. On the one hand, they know what expectations and demands their customers have of the travel experience. On the other hand, they also know the conditions in the destination country as well as the Culture of the hosts. In this way, they can ensure that the trip runs smoothly and that relaxation and comfort are not neglected. In addition, the tour guides know many hidden sights and insider tips that remain hidden from most tourists. Compared to a larger tour group, small groups offer an intimate atmosphere that allows participants to get to know each other better.

What is included in small group tours?

Another advantage of small group travel is the cost. They are often lower compared to an individual trip. Flights, accommodation and numerous activities are already included in the price. The cost of tour guides and rental vehicles is shared and therefore less significant. Travelers also have to plan less money for food, because this is often part of the activities. Reputable providers are transparent about the costs and clarify in advance which services are included. Participants then only have to take a small amount with them for daily expenses, e.g. for Gratuities for waiters and guides, souvenirs and restaurant visits. This provides planning security about the costs of the trip.

Destinations in Central America

Panama Beach
Panama offers fantastic beaches, Image: Stefan Neumann / shutterstock

On the mainland, Central America is made up of seven countries, of which Costa Rica is by far the most popular destination. The good tourism infrastructure is an advantage, but it is also all the more important to avoid tourist traps. Puraventura offers a small group tour through Costa Rica and Panama, where the participants visit an indigenous community in the rainforest. This type of experience will be remembered forever. But many Caribbean islands are also attributed to Central America. The largest of them is Cuba, home of rum and cigars, of vintage cars and Buena Vista Social Club, of mountain rainforests and dream beaches. One Trip to Cuba is a lifelong dream for many, because with its many facets, this country fascinates like no other. The Cubans’ joie de vivre is contagious, and the many sights inspire amazement and reflection.

How long should a round trip take?

There are enough sights in Central America for a few months. Unfortunately, hardly anyone can afford the luxury of taking such a long vacation. That’s why most round trips focus on the highlights of the respective country. Experienced tour guides manage to fit in an astonishing number of rewarding activities even in a short time. Nevertheless, a week is the minimum time to travel to a country. Below that, it is hardly possible to experience the different facets of flora, fauna and national culture. It’s even better if you bring two weeks or more to reach even a few remote places and enjoy some quiet moments.

Cala Mesquida: Lonely dune landscape, beach and historic stone buildings

PatrickJullien
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Cala Mesquida: Lonely dune landscape, beach and historic stone buildings

If you want to avoid the tourist crowds on Mallorca and relax in peace on the beach or while hiking, the settlement of Cala Mesquida, which has only about 40 inhabitants, is the right place for you. Cala Mesquida is located in the northeast of Mallorca. Cala Mesquida is best known for the bay of the same name, which borders the settlement. There you can lie wonderfully in the fine sand. If you are more in the mood for active relaxation, you can take a trip to the mountains on foot or by mountain bike around Cala Mesquida. In addition, the nearby small town of Capdepera attracts visitors with historic buildings and a colourful market.

A natural dune area: Cala Mesquida

The bay of Cala Mesquida is 350 metres long and consists of a crescent-shaped sandy beach in front of which the sea water shimmers crystal clear in all shades of turquoise to dark blue. Since there are only a few hotels, holiday homes and guesthouses in the area, tourists are often still among themselves on their beach section. Part of the dune area of Cala Mesquida is protected. Seagulls and cormorants nest there and the area is surrounded by pine trees. There is a little infrastructure at Cala Mesquida, there is a bar and a restaurant and also showers, but no changing rooms on the beach. The range of sports on offer is dignified: holidaymakers can rent a pedal boat and snorkel in the shallow sea water. In the low season, the weather conditions at Cala Mesquida are also suitable for surfers. Several diving schools also offer diving courses at Cala Mesquida.

On foot and by bike into the mountains around Cala Mesquida

Directly from Cala Mesquida, a designated hiking trail leads to the summit of the Talaia de Son Jaumell mountain at an altitude of 273 meters. The hike leads through barren landscapes that are steeply tapering and offer little shade. It is therefore best to do this hike in the low season, or in the morning hours in summer. Before reaching the summit, it is particularly steep and hikers should have a certain surefootedness here. Once at the summit, an almost breathtaking view stretches over Cala Mesquida and the neighboring Cala Rajada to Cap Formentor and over the Mediterranean Sea.

By the way, the mountain Talaia de Son Jaumell shares its name with a tower of the same name, which was once built on its summit. Today, only ruins of this nine-meter-high round tower from the 16th century remain. The tower used to serve as an observation tower. From there, guards were supposed to spot attacking pirate ships early on and sound the alarm in the event of an imminent attack. If you still have energy after this hiking tour, you can ride from Cala Mesquida via a seven-kilometre-long cycle path to Cala Ratjada, which could already be visited from above. On the way you pass sheep and goat pastures.

A trip to the historic old town of Capdepera

Castell de Capdepera
Castell de Capdepera, Image: trabantos / shutterstock

The town of Capdepera, with a population of about 12,000, is one of the largest cities in the area. Capdepera is located seven kilometres south of Cala Mesquida and can be easily reached by rental car or by bike. Throughout the city, the typical stone houses built of natural stone catch the eye. The inhabitants of Capdepera attach great importance to a positive image of their city and so many of these quaint stone houses are decorated with colorful flower arrangements. Narrow streets of cobblestones wind through the old town of the village, which you can roam on foot during a walk. You should definitely visit the Castell de Capdepera.

It was built as early as the 14th century and used to form a complete fortification with several buildings. The Castell de Capdepera is located above the city and can be reached after a sweaty climb from the city center. The Castell de Capdepera was built on the 159-metre-high summit of the Puig de Capdepera mountain. The Castell de Capdepera is still surrounded by a fortification wall that encloses a floor area of more than 8,000 square meters. Built in the 10th century, the Torre d’en Miquel Nunis adorns the highest point of the castle and was reached by the island’s former Islamic besiegers. In addition to a church, the cistern from the 15th century located on the church forecourt is impressive. In addition, an 18th-century governor’s house has been preserved, which now houses the Castell de Capdepera Museum.

Basilicata – Insider tip in the south of Italy

PatrickJullien
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Basilicata – Insider tip in the south of Italy

The southern Italian region of Basilicata, just like its eastern and southwestern neighboring regions of Puglia and Calabria , has long been overshadowed by more prominent Italian tourist areas, be it the Amalfi Coast belonging to Campania , Tuscany, the Italian Riviera or the popular family holiday resorts on the Adriatic. But more recently, the south of the country has increasingly become the focus of travelers. And rightly so: the Mezziogiorno has so much more to offer than just being “poor but sexy” and thus serving the clichés of holidaymakers from more northern latitudes.

Tart beauty

The poverty traditionally associated with Basilicata is mainly due to its great drought. Agriculture is difficult here. However, it is precisely this aridity, the barren mountain landscapes and the almost desert-like conditions, especially in the east around the city of Matera, that make the region interesting for individual travellers. Backpackers and hiking enthusiasts, mountain bikers, adventure seekers and people who love impressive impressions of nature: all of them get their money’s worth in the Basilicata region. The fact that many parts of the landscape are still largely undeveloped for tourism increases this appeal.

Interesting cities

Potenza and Matera are the two largest cities in Basilicata. While the capital Potenza with its almost 66,000 inhabitants is centrally located in the north of the region, Matera has around 60,000 inhabitants and is located in the east of Basilicata. Unlike the capital, which scores above all with its altitude with spectacular views and its embedding in an attractive mountain landscape, Matera is also of unusual cultural and historical charm. The Roman foundation dating back to 251 BC is located on the slopes of the Murgia highlands and is one of the oldest cities in the world. Architecturally, it represents almost all epochs of its eventful history. From antiquity to the Middle Ages, the Renaissance and modern times, you can admire their testimonies in the city centre.

Fascinating World Heritage Site

Matera di Sassi, Basilicata
Matera di Sassi, Image: ermess / shutterstock

Of particular note are Matera di Sassi, a cave settlement that was inhabited until the 20th century. Originally, people lived here in natural grottos and caves of soft tuff, which they developed into living caves over centuries. Eventually, a complete city was created with narrow streets, small squares on the roofs and rock churches. It was not until the 20th century that the Sassi were dissolved because the Italian government no longer wanted to tolerate the poor hygienic conditions for the inhabitants. People were ashamed of the fact that there were still people in the Republic of Italy who lived in “caves”. It was not until the 1980s and 1990s that a rethink began. The Sassi was placed under monument protection and began to be restored. Since 1993, they have been a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Hiking and experiencing nature

Lake Monticchio with the extinct volcano Monture
Lake Monticchio with the extinct volcano Monture in the background, Image: canadastock / shutterstock

The interior of Basilicata is determined by the mountain range of the Apennines, which runs right through the region. Despite the already mentioned overall great drought, you will surprisingly also find lush green forests here. Mont Vulture, a now extinct volcano, is located north of Potenza and has provided fertile lava soil. Inland there are extensive nature reserves such as the youngest national park in Italy, the Parco Nazionale dell’Appennino Lucano-Val d’Agri-Lagonegrese. It encloses several interesting biotopes with beech and coniferous forests, meadows and pastures. Even outside the protected zones, in the natural areas cultivated by human hands, the fertile lava soil has provided a lush flora. Around Mont Vulture there are beautiful olive groves and vineyards – a diverse landscape that always offers new impressions and also offers extremely inspiring motifs for photographers and amateur filmmakers.

Swimming and enjoying the sea

But the Basilicata region also has a special charm for those who are attracted to water. Located between the Gulf of Policastro, which is part of the Tyrrhenian Sea, and the Gulf of Taranto on the Ionian Sea, the region is an El Dorado for coastal lovers. The coastal strip along the Gulf of Policastro is harsh and wild with steep cliffs and deeply cut bays. On the Gulf of Taranto, on the other hand, there is fine sand and shallow sandy beaches for sun worshippers and family vacationers. The water is crystal clear and known for its high quality. You can also find beaches with black sand – due to the lava ash – for example the very beautiful “Spiagga Nera” near Maratea. Maratea is another city in Basilicata that is worth seeing. In addition to the beautiful beaches, one of its highlights is the huge statue of Christ the Redeemer, which towers over the city from an imposing vantage point.

Specialties from the kitchen and wine cellar

Everywhere in the region, whether in cities or small villages, you can eat easily and well. “Fresh and local” – this kitchen credo, which once stood for traditional, peasant dishes, has now also conquered international star cuisine. A region for connoisseurs, where you can always get fresh vegetables, wine and olives from local production, as well as delicious fresh fish and seafood near the coast.

Holidays in the beach paradise of Marsa Alam

PatrickJullien
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Holidays in the beach paradise of Marsa Alam

One of the most beautiful beach paradises on the Red Sea is the seaside resort of Marsa Alam. Formerly a dreamy fishing village on the east coast of Egypt, Marsa Alam has become a popular holiday destination.

The company’s own airport is located about 60 kilometers outside the city. The convenient journey and the fact that it is the warmest region on the Red Sea has contributed to its great popularity. With only 2,000 inhabitants, the village is small and peaceful. Both the houses and the hotels are spread along the coast and do not form a concentrated center.

On the gently sloping beaches, both families with children and non-swimmers can swim safely. You will look in vain for varied evening entertainment in the village. But holidays take place on the most beautiful beaches, the most attractive underwater world and near spectacular historical sites.

Best time to visit Marsa Alam

The summer months are reserved for sun worshippers, who can also endure great heat of 35 degrees Celsius and more. In all other months, the thermometer rarely drops below 20 degrees Celsius, making the region a destination that offers warm bathing weather all year round. In addition, there are the water temperatures, which average 27 to 30 degrees Celsius in summer. Even in the winter months, the water still has a temperature of 20 to 25 degrees Celsius. These are ideal conditions for exploring the dazzling underwater world extensively.

Sun and sea are the defining elements

Diving in Marsa Alam
Marsa Alam is a diving paradise, Image: Vlad61 / shutterstock

In Marsa Alam, the holiday is mainly about the beach and the sea. Exciting reefs reach just off the coast. Others are within easy reach by boat and offer divers unique experiences. On the spectacular steep walls of “Dolphin Reef” and “Elephinstone Reef” there are exciting encounters with big fish, dolphins and now and then sharks.

The most beautiful bay is north of Marsa Alam with the “Caraya Bay”. The fine, long sandy beach and the offshore coral reefs make the holidays a constant experience.

At the “Abu Dabbab Bay” a mysterious shipwreck lures you to dive and snorkel. From the beach there is an extra highlight. From here, sea turtles, dolphins and dugongs can be spotted without the need for a boat tour or dive.

Marsa Alam Adventure

The small town of Marsa Alam has not only lived from fishing. Large deposits of gold and emeralds, semi-precious stones, copper and lead were mined here. Emeralds were the symbol of power and immortality. The most famous mines are the “Cleopatra Mines”. In the desert towards Edfu and the Nile, there are numerous clues and historical mines and places. Mines were operated in the “Wadi Miya” during the time of the pharaohs. These days, remnants can be seen. At that time, a small rock temple was built for the workers, which can still be visited today. Rock carvings depict animals that lived here at the time.

Marsa Alam, the gateway to the national park

A special destination near Marsa Alam is the third largest national park in Egypt. In the “Wadi al-Gamal National Park“, the “Valley of the Camels” in the middle of the East Arabian Desert, dorcas gazelles, slate falcons and the rare “African donkeys” and the “Syrian ibex” live on 7450 square kilometres. They cope well with both the heat and the severe drought.

On the coastal strip, mangrove forests, four islands in the Hamata archipelago and Wadi al-Gamal Island are part of the national park. In addition to mangroves, numerous shrubs have settled. Its roots are formed by small elevations such as dunes.

It is forbidden to enter the national park without a ranger. These knowledgeable guides will show you all the natural beauties and special features, as well as the historically important places from Roman and Ptolemaic times in the park.

Experience Marsa Alam and the surrounding area actively on land

Going on a desert tour by quad bike is the goal of many guests. If you want it less fast, entrust yourself to the back of a camel and swing comfortably through the desert sand. A trip to the wonderland of the desert should be on every holiday programme. The indescribable scenery of a sunset in the desert remains unforgettable.

They are exciting excursions into the past in the land of the pharaohs.
The most impressive tours lead to the Valley of the Kings and the temples of Karnak. The world-famous archaeological sites at Luxor, the former Thebes, are worth a trip from Marsa Alam. Impressive columns and colossal statues or the rock temples of Abu Simbel are within easy reach.

Marsa Alam is the ideal destination to combine fascinating cultural experiences with a relaxed beach holiday

Denver – Capital of Colorado

PatrickJullien
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Denver – Capital of Colorado

The capital of the US state of Colorado, Denver, is one of the most exciting cities in the USA and one of the real insider tips for a city trip. Away from the well-known metropolises such as New York City, Los Angeles, New Orleans or Miami, you will not only find a melting pot of different cultures, but above all a vibrant metropolis with history and character. With the Rocky Mountains in the background, an exciting nightlife and all kinds of sights, the city has developed into a real hotspot for culture and typical life in the USA in recent years. Both cultural travelers and foodies will get their money’s worth here.

The city of mineral resources – from gold mining village to oil metropolis

Colorado State Capitol, Denver
Colorado State Capitol, Image: f11photo /and shutterstock

As so often in the history of the USA, it was the gold diggers who made sure that Denver developed. At the foot of the Rocky Mountains, first silver and then gold were found, and at some point the loose villages merged to form a city. Over time, new raw materials were discovered in the area from time to time, and most recently it was oil fields in the 1980s that led the already rich metropolis to new prosperity. Around 750,000 people now live directly in the city and well over a million people in the suburbans of Denver in the shadow of the Rocky Mountains.

The history of the city and the surrounding area can still be admired today on every corner of the city. In addition to a wide selection of museums, there are many historic buildings that document the construction of the city over the past centuries and are proof of how Denver has developed from a small village into one of the most important metropolises in the USA. Denver is not only interesting for tourists itself, but also various places in the immediate vicinity invite you to excursions and give you the opportunity to discover even more sights.

Discover the must-see attractions in Denver

Daniels & Fisher Tower, Denver
Daniels & Fisher Tower, Image: Kit Leong / shutterstock

If you only want to spend time with the most interesting sights of Denver itself, you should definitely take a path to the State Capitol. In addition to being the Colorado state legislature, the historic building is located in the middle of a green area in the heart of the city and also offers guided tours to learn more about the history of the state and the country. With a little luck, you can get a room at the Brown Palace Hotel in the immediate vicinity – it was built in 1892 and is still a striking eye-catcher in the middle of the city and offers some interesting history about the development in the past decades.

The Daniels & Fisher Tower is one of the city’s landmarks and is hard to miss, even in the spectacular skyline. From here you can orientate yourself well and perhaps find your way to one of the most interesting shopping centers in the city. The 16th Street Mall offers a variety of restaurants, cafes and bars and is one of the centers of the city where there is actually something going on at any time of the day or night. By the way, if you want to move around the city, you don’t necessarily have to take a taxi. Especially the free shuttle buses in Denver are a convenience that you don’t want to miss when exploring the capital of Colorado.

Culture and fun in the heart of Denver

If you want to experience a lot of excitement in addition to sightseeing, you should take a trip to the Denver Botanic Gardens. It is one of the largest collections in North America and is also commonly considered one of the most beautiful botanical gardens you can find in the USA. Plants from all over the world have been prepared here in a unique landscape and offer the opportunity to find out more than just about what grows in Colorado. Speaking of plants, marijuana was legalized in Colorado a few years ago and the corresponding shops can be found in many parts of the city.

Visits to the Denver Museum of Nature & Science or the Denver Arts Museum are a great way to learn more about the USA and the city and are also real architectural eye-catchers. So if you are looking for a little education, there are many other variants to choose from in addition to these two museums. At the end of the day, Denver is also a city of museums and education.

A look at the surrounding areas of Denver

If you are planning a trip out of the big city by car, you should definitely stop by Boulder. In recent years, the city has developed into the little brother of the big metropolis, is a little less hectic, but above all offers a lot of good restaurants and a large scene of artists who make their goods available at markets or in small shops.

Another popular excursion point – in addition to the Rocky Mountains, which can be reached quickly from here – is the Red Rocks Amphitheater. The theatre, which was carved into the red rocks, has already been the venue for many famous concerts and the stars regularly come and go. In addition, even on days without performances, it is a great sight to see when visiting Denver.

Alabama: Visiting the Cotton State of the USA

PatrickJullien
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Alabama: Visiting the Cotton State of the USA

Alabama is one of the best known among the so-called southern states of the USA. For a long time, Alabama was associated with racial segregation and slavery because of its history. Because in this state, plantation agriculture predominated economically. Cotton was mainly grown, which is why Alabama is also known as the Cotton State . In the past, dark-skinned slaves from Africa were often used to harvest cotton. Today, Alabama is trying to get rid of the bad image that has arisen more and more, which is also succeeding. Because Alabama has a lot to offer visitors.

There are several larger cities, such as Birmingham or Montgomery, that are worth visiting. There, as well as in the smaller towns of the state, there are numerous bars and clubs where live music is played. Alabama has produced many great musicians such as Aretha Franklin, Nat King Cole and the Rolling Stones. The musical spectrum that is played here ranges from blues to country and gospel to rock and jazz. In addition, there are interesting museums of all kinds to visit in Alabama and exciting outdoor adventures to experience.

A visit to the lively industrial metropolis of Birmingham

Skyline of Birmingham, Alabama
View of the Birmingham skyline, Image: ESB Professional / shutterstock

Birmingham is the largest city in Alabama with a good 215,000 inhabitants. Many well-known jazz musicians were born here, for example Billy Valentine. If you stop off in Birmingham, you should definitely visit the Birmingham Museum of Art. Founded in 1951, the art museum has a collection of no less than 17,000 exhibits. In addition to paintings and drawings, sculptures, graphics and video installations are also on display. The thematic arc that the collection of the Birmingham Museum of Art covers is enormous. Because the works on display come from a wide variety of cultures and epochs.

On display are African, Native American, European and Asian works of art. Contemporary art is represented in the Birmingham Museum of Art as well as works of art from the Renaissance or Baroque periods. If you prefer to exercise in the fresh air rather than in a closed building, you should visit the city’s zoo and botanical gardens in Birmingham. Both facilities are located right next to each other. There are about 550 animals in the zoo , which can be attributed to 180 different animal species. Among them are some that are already threatened with extinction. The Birmingham Botanical Garden has numerous expertly landscaped themed gardens and the impressive Long Life Lake Bridge, which is considered the main attraction of this botanical garden.

Learn all about space in the Rocket City of Huntsville

Huntsville, Alabama
In Huntsville, (almost) everything revolves around space, Image: Philip Arno Photography / shutterstock

Huntsville is only the fourth largest city in Alabama, but you should definitely stop by the city in the far north of the state. Especially if you are enthusiastic about technology and space. Because Huntsville is not called Rocket City for nothing. With the Redstone Arsenal, a rocket development center and test site of the US Army is located here. And NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center, where the Apollo space program was developed, can also be found here. Visitors can visit the US Space and Rocket Center in Huntsville. Here you can learn everything about the American space program and visit rockets and rocket parts. In addition, there is the opportunity to feel like a real rocket scientist and astronaut in flight or underwater simulators. If you are more in the mood for dignified art, visit the Huntsville Museum of Art. The collection focuses on American and regional art. Around 2,300 exhibits can be visited, including works by Andy Warhol.

Alabama’s pristine white coast: the city of Gulf Shores and Orange Beach

Alabama’s coastline is not necessarily one of the longest in the USA, but the beaches of the city of Gulf Shores, which has only about 12,000 inhabitants, easily make up for the lack of space with breathtaking beauty. The beaches here have pristine white and extremely fine-grained quartz sand, which shimmers in the sun in a very special way. Nestled between Gulf Shores and Orange Beach is Gulf State Park. The beach section there is three kilometres long and invites you to take relaxing walks on the beach. However, Gulf State Park has a whole host of other exciting things to do.

You can play golf, kayak, sail, surf or dive in the park’s man-made reefs. Deep sea fishing is also possible here under guidance. In addition, a wide variety of themed tours by boat are offered. Here, tourists can, for example, familiarize themselves with the world of dolphins and visit them in their natural habitat. If you prefer to move on land rather than in the water, Gulf State Park has a variety of well-marked hiking and mountain biking trails. These lead through pine forests as well as through swamps. If you are lucky, you will meet a bald eagle on the way.

Among other things, alligators swim in the park’s lakes, which is why you should strictly follow the instructions regarding any bathing bans here. Spending the night in Gulf State Park is also no problem. In addition to lodges that can be rented, there is also a campsite. Visitors interested in history also have the opportunity to learn about the history of the Native Americans and the civil war that once took place here. The Baldwin County Heritage Museum takes an in-depth look at local history surrounding Orange Beach. The Fairhope Museum of History focuses on the history and traditions of the region’s Native Americans.

Why use a VPN when traveling?

PatrickJullien
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Why use a VPN when traveling?

Especially when traveling, it happens again and again that you want to use the Internet in the usual way. It often happens that you are faced with the problem that many things don’t work on the road. This is not only because many service providers on the Internet work in the same way in every country, but also because of the countries they visit. Many countries regulate the Internet for users. In China , for example, many services are blocked by the government and are not available.

A VPN offers the possibility that the internet works well in the same way in every country and that any service can be used without any problems. If you travel for work and are therefore dependent on the Internet, it is essential to pay attention to a possible restriction of Internet use before traveling abroad.

Some reasons that show the benefits of a VPN:

  • Internet restrictions due to political reasons
    ◦ Countries such as the USA, China or Switzerland limit many social media.
  • Free Wi-Fi is all too often not tap-proof
    ◦ you use WhatsApp, for example, for a free call and are listened to.
  • Online banking and other secure sites
    ◦ It often happens that online banking is not accessible from abroad, which can have fatal consequences in the event of theft of a mobile phone or laptop.
  • Non-existent net neutrality
    ◦ Unimaginable, but still possible that not the state, but a hotel or generally an operator of a freely available WLAN censors the Internet and thus restricts it.
  • Restricted media in general
    ◦ You try to watch a TV series or documentary on the Internet from abroad and get the message “only available in xxx”. This depends on how the license for the film or series is determined and therefore cannot be seen with a foreign IP.

All these restrictions are excluded with VPN use and the Internet can be used as usual.
VPN for Windows
 is a possibility, especially if you need the Internet for work and need a secure data line for business purposes.

VPN for Windows can be installed easily and quickly and protects the laptop or PC from cybercrime excellently. Business data thus remains in the secure area and no one can access it. Due to the encryption, which is always carried out with VPN, you are always protected from data theft.

As long as you limit your travels to Europe and don’t use free Wi-Fi, VPN is not absolutely necessary. If, on the other hand, you use every opportunity to use a free Wi-Fi as a hotspot, it is strongly recommended to use a VPN not only abroad. Cost savings, data saving or other reasons take a back seat to cybercrime, because it can cause much greater damage. Cybercrime also exists within Europe. Almost every shopping center now offers free Wi-Fi for use. These networks are not properly secured and are therefore a risk factor, especially when it comes to personal data.

When traveling to certain countries such as China, the US, and even Switzerland, it proves to be an excellent solution to use a VPN. There is not only the risk of data theft, but also the risk of internet restriction.

Explore the world from Dortmund

PatrickJullien
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Explore the world from Dortmund

If you are looking for the right departure airport for your next vacation, you will also come across Dortmund Airport more and more often in flight comparisons. The third-largest airport in North Rhine-Westphalia offers flights from easyJet, Eurowings, Ryanair, SunExpress and Wizz Air, among others. On its website , Dortmund Airport presents a travel guide with its destinations. We have picked out some highlights for you.

Porto – Portugal’s secret capital

Porto, Duero
The Douro River flows through Porto, Image: Sean Pavone / shutterstock

Historic Porto unfolds in the north of Portugal. The port city is not only the second largest settlement in Portugal after Lisbon , but also the economic and cultural center of northern Portugal. Like Lisbon, the city is rich in UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The city is also known as the Baroque city throughout the country due to its impressive historical architecture. Here you can discover numerous sacred buildings with unique architectural styles.

The city owes its name to its location on the water: Porto – port in Portuguese – is located on the right bank of the Douro, just a few kilometres from the mouth of the river.

Rhodes

Rhodes is perfect for a holiday with the whole family. The numerous hotels offer entertainment for young and old. In addition, numerous sights are waiting to be explored by you. In the footsteps of the historical wonder of the world “Colossus of Rhodes” you walk in Rhodes Town. There is a special peace and quiet in Petaloudes – the Valley of the Butterflies. On the entertaining hike through the valley, you will meet numerous butterflies in a wonderful environment in the summer months. Another special destination on a Rhodes holiday is the white city of Lindos. The Acropolis found here is the postcard motif par excellence on Rhodes.

And the most beautiful: Due to the rather small size, all destinations can be reached quickly, regardless of the place of accommodation.

Vienna

Austria, Vienna State Opera
The Vienna State Opera, Image: Guniva / shutterstock

If you want to spend your city holiday in Austria’s most populous city, you should bring one thing above all: time. One sight follows the other. The absolute highlight is certainly St. Stephen’s Cathedral on Vienna’s Stephansplatz. The main tower of the building, the South Tower, is 136.44 meters high. Numerous visitors then flock to the Hofburg. This was the residence of the Habsburgs in Vienna from the 13th century until 1918. Since 1945, it has been the official residence of the Austrian Federal President. Here you will find most of the Austrian National Library, the Albertina Museum, the Hofburg Church, the Augustinian Church and the Federal Monuments Office. A highlight is the Sisi Museum, which depicts the true personality of the famous queen, as well as the royal apartments of Emperor Franz Joseph and Empress Elisabeth. Zoo lovers will get their money’s worth at Schönrunn Zoo. The zoo, which opened in 1852, is now home to over 8,500 animals.

Our tip: Take a look at the city from the Ferris wheel at Vienna’s Prater.

Fuerteventura

Fuerteventura, Barlovento
The beach Barlovento on Fuerteventura, Image: Tono Balaguer / shutterstock

The Canary Island is a popular destination all year round. Especially in the winter months, of course, when your heart only warms up in front of the fireplace at home.

Due to the constant winds, Fuerteventura is particularly popular with surfers and surfers. But of course, the island is also a perfect destination for the family due to its beautiful beaches and family-friendly hotels. If you also like to go shopping on holiday, the capital Puerto del Rosario with 40,000 inhabitants is recommended. This is where the life of the island pulsates. The city has some churches worth seeing, such as the Iglesia de Nuestra Señora del Rosario or the Iglesia Santo Domingo de Guzmán. At Ecomuseo La Alcogida, just a few kilometers from Puerto del Rosario, you can discover the traditional village life in Fuerteventura. The museum consists of a total of seven courtyards, which were built in traditional island architecture with natural stone from the surrounding area. In the courtyard, agricultural equipment, handicrafts and everyday necessities are exhibited.

At night, bars and clubs in downtown Puerto del Rosario open their doors and attract partygoers. Those who prefer it quiet can enjoy the picturesque beaches of the city, such as Playa Chica, which is located right next to the harbor.

Antalya

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

Even the Romans had a soft spot for the area around Antalya. Many sights that are still preserved today date from this time.

Antalya is still a fairly young city, but it has grown significantly in recent decades. This is also due to the fact that the city not only has a rich history and numerous sights, but also offers a particularly well-developed infrastructure for travelers and tourists. The nearby beaches and climate offer holidaymakers optimal temperatures from April to October.

An absolute highlight is Hadrian’s Gate. The gate was an important part of Antalya’s city wall and was built as early as the second century AD.

Around the world in 90 dishes

PatrickJullien
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Around the world in 90 dishes

In the Corona pandemic, many things had to be sacrificed. Carefree travel was part of it. Yet travel is so important to broaden horizons, including culinary ones. In a new Berlin museum, the two can now be combined in a wonderful way.

The most beautiful disgust in Berlin

At the Disgusting Food Museum Berlin , visitors travel around the world in 90 dishes. Using selected examples, very different taste cultures and culinary traditions are presented. And as is often the case, people shy away from the strangeness of certain foods: Where are bull testicles or bull penis eaten? Where do people enjoy dog, sheep’s head or rotten fish? Where does the durian fruit produce a pleasant taste instead of a gag reflex? In which country is cheese made with mites and refined? The museum ensures that the feeling of foreignness towards such foods is reduced, because they are presented very beautifully, almost like in an art exhibition.

Prejudices in self-experimentation

In addition, the makers of the exhibition emphasize that they do not show objective disgust, but things that could be considered disgusting. In this way, visitors are confronted with their own prejudices, and they can overcome these prejudices at the museum’s Tasting Bar. In the Disgusting Food Museum Berlin, you can do what is strictly forbidden in the other museums: touching and nibbling. In this way, the worms, which were initially viewed with horror, become a delicacy. The self-experiment requires courage, and courage is rewarded. This is the quintessence of the museum.

Impressions from the Disgusting Food Museum

Foreignness pays off

Looking beyond one’s own nose ensures a better quality of life. This corresponds to a productive way of dealing with foreignness, which we often have to deal with in life. While the exhibition suddenly makes the foreign seem familiar, the seemingly familiar becomes strange again, seems downright strange: food that we buy in the supermarket unsuspectingly and without thinking. The Disgusting Food Museum Berlin shows the animal behind the sausage and that nutrition has something to do with animal welfare and the environment. No meat is grilled without animal husbandry, transport and slaughter. And why do we differentiate between farm animals and pets? The cat sleeps in our bed, and chickens, cattle and pigs go into the meat grinder. The museum shows in measured form what we are only too happy to ignore.

Everything beautiful is not in the sausage

Nutrition cannot be had without responsibility. In this way, the culinary journey around the world becomes an educational journey of a special kind, because it instructs without sacrificing entertainment. The Disgusting Food Museum Berlin is located in the rooms that used to house the German Currywurst Museum. Who knows what’s in a currywurst. After visiting the Disgust Museum, you can imagine it.

These are the top locations for photo shoots in Dortmund

PatrickJullien
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These are the top locations for photo shoots in Dortmund

Photo shoots do not always have to be carried out by professionals. Hobby photographers also like to take photos and are always on the lookout for the best locations. A photographer in Dortmund has many options, even if the city has almost been forgotten by many in this respect. However, there are some lost places here that are ideal for photo shoots.

Hansa coking plant

The Hansa coking plant is one of the most famous lost places and photo locations in the entire Ruhr area. It was put into operation in 1928, but to this day there are still old conveyor belts and gearboxes that are suitable as motifs. They are all located in the then forbidden town of Huckarde. Coke production was discontinued in the 90s and the building has been empty ever since. In 1998, the building was still listed as a historic monument.

Hermannshütte in Hörde

The Hermannshütte used to be a steel and iron works in the Dortmund district of Hörde. Originally, steel and iron were processed here in the 19th century. The operation was then finally discontinued in 2001. While some of the machines were sold to China , some remained local. A few years later, however, the building was completely demolished. Today the beautiful Phoenix Lake is located here, which is also suitable as a photo location.

Psychiatry in Kirchhörde

In 1957, the former Catholic Marienhospital was built in Dortmund. The well-known Klöckner family was originally the owner of the property, but they left it to the Franciscan nuns. The hospital was closed in 1978 before it became a psychiatric hospital and day clinic. This facility then ceased operations in 2005 and the building has been empty ever since. Until 2017 it was still a popular photo spot, but then the demolition work began. One or the other will be pleased, because the building was said to be haunted.

Gustav Knepper power plant

Gustav Knepper Power Plant in Dortmund
Gustav Knepper power plant in Dortmund, Image: Art_Pictures / shutterstock

The Gustav Knepper power plant used to be a hard coal-fired power plant in Dortmund. It was built in 1951 and subsequently taken over by E.ON AG. In the end, however, the power plant was only operated until 2001. It was then completely shut down in 2013 at the request of E.ON. The entire area was sold in 2017 and was actually supposed to be revived. Slowly the power plant was dismantled, but in the meantime and to this day you can still take very nice pictures here.

Former Kronen Brewery

The Kronenbier is mentioned as early as 1430. This old brewery was moved to Kronenburg in 1873 and taken over several times. In 1996, it was sold to the Actien Brewery. Production was terminated in 2000. The empty building was then used for photo shoots and is still considered a popular lost place today. However, since young people also met here again and again and accidents occurred, the police had to move in regularly and now the city of Dortmund is working on the building, which will soon serve as a city archive. Basically, there are many beautiful locations in and around Dortmund that are ideal for photo shoots. The insider tips listed can help you find the perfect motif, but visiting these memorable places alone can be enough of an experience.

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