All about travel

Why use a VPN when traveling?

All about travel

PatrickJullien

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15. April 2022

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

All about travel

PatrickJullien

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13. April 2022

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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.

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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

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

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

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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12. April 2022

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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.

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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

All about travel

PatrickJullien

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11. April 2022

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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.

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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

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.

Holidays in Didim at the best time to visit

Turkey

PatrickJullien

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10. April 2022

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Holidays in Didim at the best time to visit

Beach holidays in Didim are ideal for the period between May and October, as the temperatures are pleasantly warm and the sun shines for many hours a day. The crystal-clear, turquoise blue water invites you to swim and take long walks on the beach, while the mild temperatures in the evening make you want to take a long walk on the beach or go shopping.

If you like it particularly hot, you should fly to Turkey in July or August. At this time, temperatures are at their highest and can even get a little over the 40 degree mark on some days. The water temperatures are around 20 to 25 degrees Celsius and invite you to spend long days at the beach.

If the main focus of a holiday in Didim is on the cultural sights of the area, spring and autumn are perfect. It is not too hot then, but still warm and sunny enough to escape the German uncomfortable weather. In addition, there are only very few rainy days.

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Sights in Didim

The Amphitheatre of Miletus

The ancient city of Miletus in the immediate vicinity of Didim is worth a day trip and is historically very interesting. Miletus is home to the best-preserved ancient amphitheater in the world, which at the time could accommodate about 15,000 people. The city’s museum exhibits the most beautiful excavations and well-preserved finds. Jewellery, coins, sculptures and other relics from that time can also be found in the Milet Museum. The city consists of beautiful little alleys where visitors can drift wonderfully. Small cafés, restaurants and shops invite you to linger and stroll.

The Temple of Apollo

The Temple of Apollo in Didim also dates back to antiquity, the ruins of which can still be admired today. The remains give an insight into everyday life in the past and often show how thin the line was between poor people and the richer, splendidly furnished population.

The colorful bazaar of Didim

If you ever want to stay in the village and not have to travel, the bazaar of Didim is an ideal destination. Every Saturday of the month, it is held in the middle of the village and is considered a meeting place for every generation and every taste. The bazaar should be experienced with all the senses: it smells of oriental spices, music penetrates through the bazaar alleys from everywhere and the eyes don’t know where to see enough first. Exotic fruits and vegetables as far as the eye can see, freshly grilled fish and delicious-smelling chicken at the barbecue stand next door – the bazaar of Didim is worth it, especially with an empty stomach.

Lake Bafa and its insider tips

Didim Beach — Relaxation on the beach of Didim, Image: Nejdet Duzen / shutterstock

For nature enthusiasts, Lake Bafa in the Latos Mountains is a very nice destination. It is located only 20 kilometers from Didim in a nature park and is ideal for hiking, beautiful views or simply a little relaxation in nature. Many animals also feel very comfortable here – numerous birds live near the lake. For the excursion to the Bafa Lake National Park, holidaymakers can also rent bicycles and explore the many beautiful paths in the middle of nature by mountain bike. A small canoe tour on the lake is also extremely charming. A special feature of Lake Bafa is that there are two ancient sites along the lake, namely Hereklia and Latmos. They used to be Byzantine monasteries, whose ruins still characterize the lake area today and make it historically valuable.

The Doganbey Village

The village is located about 30 minutes by bus, car or taxi from Didim and is the perfect destination for those seeking peace and quiet who like it tranquil. Small stone houses are located a short distance from each other and are embedded in pine trees that exude a wonderful scent. The trip to Doganbey is ideal if you want a little peace and quiet away from larger tourist resorts.

The ancient city of Ephesus

Ephesus is also within easy reach of Didim and is a popular trading city that was extremely important in antiquity. Many trade routes led through its core and led to Ephesus being able to develop magnificently in a very short time. The highlights of this historic site are the Temple of Artemis and the famous Library of Celsus. Ephesus is one of the seven wonders of the ancient world and its visitors are always under its spell, because so much history is incredibly fascinating in one place.

Special features and tips in Didim

There are various booking channels for successful excursions. Most hotels have brochures and flyers of local excursion destinations in the lobby to get a first impression of the possibilities. Often the day tours can also be reserved at the reception. Another option is to book an excursion through the tour operator. In the almost daily information meetings at a central location in the hotel, the packages offered are presented and can be booked immediately for the coming holidays. In addition, there are also local providers in Didim who take holidaymakers to the most popular places and organise a nice day in the destination area.

Koh Kho Khao – An insider tip in Thailand

Thailand

PatrickJullien

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9. April 2022

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Koh Kho Khao – An insider tip in Thailand

The search for the original Thailand, far away from the typical tourist crowds on the most famous coasts and the largest cities, has quickly and significantly increased the popularity of one or the other island in the area. Today, island hopping, i.e. visiting many small islands in a very short time, is no longer only popular with backpackers. Especially in the Andaman Sea there are a wide variety of interesting islands, which have become known especially for their almost untouched nature and the possibility of retreating from the fast pace of everyday life. A good example of this is Koh Kho Khao. The small island has developed into a real insider tip.

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Koh Kho Khao – the insider tip among the islands of the Andaman Sea

In recent years, the various islands of the Andaman Sea have become an insider tip for normal holidaymakers who are looking for a way to spend their holidays in Thailand off the beaten track and the strongholds of hotels. The return to nature and the opportunity for relaxation are sought, which is usually not easy to find in the busy and often very dynamic tourist areas. In addition, the many islands attract with fantastic sandy beaches, opportunities for excursions and activities and, last but not least, low prices for accommodation.

In contrast to some of the other islands in the area, the development of the island has progressed, but has not penetrated the nature of the island too much. The jetty of the island offers the most shops and restaurants, but you can count them on one hand. Here you will also find an ATM. In recent years, some small hotel complexes have been built that are quite upscale and are also home to most of the other restaurants on the island. These are usually also accessible to day-trippers and offer good and, above all, local cuisine, which is typical of the islands.

Accommodation, transport and movement on the island

Sunrise on the beach of Koh Kho Khao Island — Sunrise on the beach of the island of Koh Kho Khao, Image: Patryk Kosmider / shutterstock

If you want to move around the island between the beaches and the pier, you will usually do so by moped, as is customary for Thailand. In addition, shipping naturally plays an important role. You can easily get to Koh Kho Khao by ferry or longboat and can also take advantage of the many opportunities at the pier to move to one of the many other islands. Many of the providers offer tours and therefore support island hopping to get an overview of the other islands.

Otherwise, the island, which is just 17 kilometers long, can also be easily explored on foot. With the kayak it is quite easy to make a tour around the beaches and around the island itself. In view of the large number of beaches that can be found here, you can also secure one or two interesting photo motifs. In addition, the many other options offer the option with which, for example, you can go into the sea and take a diving course in the sea.

What exactly is there to do on Koh Kho Khao?

In terms of the activities themselves, Koh Kho Khao differs little from the other islands in the immediate vicinity. Most travelers, vacationers and backpackers come to the island mainly because they are looking for peace and relaxation. And that’s exactly what you’ll find here. Although there are now a good number of accommodations and hotels on the island, they are so small in number that there is no reason why it should be cramped on the island. Instead, you can find the untouched nature of Thailand with a look off the road, which can hardly be found in this form in the strongholds of tourism today.

Among the special features on the island is an archaeological excavation center. Here you can examine some parts of the special history of the island itself and the archipelago and a small museum provides information about what is actually being searched for here. On the subject of finds from contemporary history, there is also an old airport that was used by the Japanese on the island during World War II. There are some plans that this could be expanded for tourism. One more reason why you should visit the island now before the infrastructure ensures that the insider tip becomes an open secret for all travelers from Thailand.

Of course, the beach, sun and sea are among the most important reasons why you should dare to visit Koh Kho Khao. The beautiful sandy beaches with the wonderful sand and the crystal clear sea invite you to relax and would allow you to spend the whole day under palm trees. If you are looking for a little cooling off and also want to see a little more of the impressive underwater world, there are also a wide variety of diving spots available here. The snorkeling is also supported by the locals, who offer tours to the best places for an underwater dive for a small price.

A visit to Koh Kho Khao is therefore recommended for a variety of reasons. The island is still a tip for travelers in the region – but that can change quickly. Thanks to the low availability of rooms on the island, the trip should also be planned well in advance.

La Maddalena: The wild natural beauty of the Italian Mediterranean

Italy

PatrickJullien

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9. April 2022

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La Maddalena: The wild natural beauty of the Italian Mediterranean

La Maddalena is 62 islands in one. The archipelago of La Maddalena belongs to Italy and is located near the island of Sardinia in the Tyrrhenian Sea. However, many of the 62 associated islands are uninhabited. La Maddalena is also called the Seychelles of the Mediterranean, which can be explained by the wonderful dream beaches and bays that can be found here. The largest island in the archipelago is called, like the entire archipelago itself, La Maddalena. In addition, there are six other inhabited main islands. If you were on holiday in Sardinia anyway, you should definitely pay a visit to La Maddalena to soak up the natural beauty of the archipelago and relax on the beautiful beaches. La Maddalena can be reached from the northeast of Sardinia. Ferry from Palau to La Maddalena takes only about 20 minutes for the crossing. The frequency of the ferries is excellent, there are up to 80 trips per day during the season.

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Explore the main island of La Maddalena

Main island La Maddalena — View of the main island of La Maddelena, Image: Agent Wolf / shutterstock

Visitors usually land on the main island of La Maddalena first. Most of the approximately 11,500 inhabitants of the archipelago live here, which is why it is comparatively bustling here. So if you are in the mood for delicious food in a rustic restaurant in addition to relaxation, you should head for the island’s capital in the south of the island, which is also called La Maddalena. Here you can enjoy freshly caught fish in a romantic setting, because the old town of the small town looks like something out of an Italian film. In the evenings, you can take a walk around the harbour, where sailboats alternate with small fishing boats.

The most beautiful beaches of the main island can be found in the north of La Maddalena, because here it is even more lonely than in the already very lonely south. For example, you can relax wonderfully on the Spiaggia Monti D’A Rena beach. The fine sand shimmers here in yellow to ochre colour gradations. The Mediterranean Sea is clear and the landscape all around is characterized by rugged rock sections. If you are only making a day trip to La Maddalena and still don’t want to miss out on a dip in the cool water, the Punta Tegge beach near the island’s capital is recommended. It is more than idyllic, but still within walking distance of the town centre. It also has an excellent infrastructure with beach bars and small restaurants.

Over the bridge to Caprera

The island of Caprera, located to the west of La Maddalena, does not have to be reached by boat, but can be reached via the 600-metre-long Ponte Moneta bridge. There are some historical sights to discover on Caprera, which can be explored as part of a hike. On the main island, tourists can stock up on hiking maps. The hiking trails on Caprera cover the entire island and are well signposted. The Batteria di Punta Rossa is located in the very south of the island. This is an abandoned military complex from the 19th century. The buildings are now very dilapidated. However, if you feel a little adventurous spirit in you, you will make many a discovery here, because the area is freely accessible and can be explored on your own.

There is also the former residence of the Italian freedom fighter Guiseppe Garibaldi to visit. The former home has since been converted into a museum where personal belongings, furniture, clothing and uniforms of Garibaldi and his comrades-in-arms are exhibited. With the Batteria Poggio Rasu Superiore, the island has another former military fortress. This is suitable as a vantage point, because from there visitors can overlook the entire island and look far out over the Mediterranean Sea. Especially in the evening hours, when the sun sets over the sea, this is a real experience. If you want to enjoy even more wonderful views, climb Monte Tejalone.

This viewpoint is freely accessible around the clock. The viewpoint is located at 212 meters above sea level and is accessible by stairs. And a visit to the island is also worthwhile for bird lovers, because it is not only a nature reserve, but also a bird sanctuary. Numerous peregrine falcons, seagulls and cormorants can be found here. Bathing enthusiasts head for the south of the island. For example, the beaches Cala Caprese and Spiaggia del Relitto are recommended. Idyllically situated in a bay is the dream beach Cala Napoletana. This can be found in the northwest of the island and can only be reached on foot via a rocky hiking trail.

What else is there to discover in the La Maddalena Archipelago

The rest of the La Maddalena archipelago is best explored from the water. On the main island of La Maddalena, visitors can rent a motorized inflatable boat that allows them to travel independently from island to island. Of course, you can also join a boat tour, which is offered here in large numbers. The islands of the archipelago are all very wild and natural. On Budelli, the Spiaggia Rosa beach beckons, which has a real peculiarity: its sand shimmers from pink to red. Unfortunately, it can actually only be admired from the water, as it is not allowed to enter the island, but the sight of this natural beauty alone is a highlight of any boat tour around the archipelago. If you want to make a stop for swimming, it is best to do so on Santa Maria, because here the water is particularly clear

Travel tips for a road trip

All about travel

PatrickJullien

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8. April 2022

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Between imagination and reality

A long road, sunshine, loud music and a car full of good-humoured people sticking their hands out of the open top of the car – these are the typical images that shoot through your head when you think of a road trip.

However, if you are planning a road trip, you should take into account that especially in Germany , only a few kilometer-long, straight and hardly used roads are rather rare. Likewise, the local weather makes it difficult to rely on being able to drive with the top down, sunroof open or open windows. Therefore, it is important to prepare for all eventualities, such as traffic jams, bad weather and crowded roads, before starting the road trip. Only the good mood has to be taken care of spontaneously.

Well prepared for any weather

You can’t influence the external conditions, but you can influence the equipment of the car and the equipment for the road trip.

Bad weather not only often ruins the mood, but can also leave quite a mess in the car. For example, if you want to make a stop in the rain, you should provide good floor mats to keep the car as clean as possible. Easy to clean and beautiful in design are, for example, floor mats from the Mercedes brand of floor mats.

Rain ponchos are also useful in rainy weather. Here you can freely choose between disposable and reusable products. The advantage of the disposable product is clearly the space saving, whereas reusable ponchos are much more sustainable and therefore more environmentally friendly. In addition, these often keep the rain out better than disposable products, as their material is thicker.

An insider tip for bad weather is also to always have a blanket on board so that you can make yourself comfortable in the car.

In hot temperatures, on the other hand, enough drinks must be packed in any case. A cool box with ice packs provides a special refreshing kick here, which keeps the drinks cold. It is also advisable to check the air conditioning – if available – for its functionality before starting the road trip.

Tips and tricks for a good mood

Music Road Trip — Good music is one of the decisive factors for a good mood on a road trip, Image: silverkblackstock / shutterstock

In contrast to the weather, which cannot be influenced, the mood of the passengers is very much in their hands.

What should never be missing on a road trip is therefore good music. In order not to waste time in the car downloading the right songs, it makes sense to create a playlist of feel-good songs before the start of the journey. This way, bad mood and boredom do not arise in the first place.

Snacks are also a good tip against a bad mood, because hunger not only affects the stomach, but also the mind. Good alternatives here are, for example, pretzel sticks, rolls, fruit and vegetables. To keep the car clean, the floor mats of the Mercedes brand are recommended. Thanks to the Mercedes floor mats, crumbs and other food scraps do not end up on the floor of the car, but the Mercedes floor mats can be easily shaken out and cleaned at the next stop.

In addition to snacks and good music, small games also help against a low mood. A tried and tested and popular game on long car journeys is “I see ‘something’ that you don’t see“. It not only dispels boredom and travel time, but also helps to perceive the surroundings much more attentively. Guessing games and a quiz can also lift the mood. Another advantage of this type of game is that the driver can also take part. With card or board games, on the other hand, this is a bit problematic.

Get started

So now all you have to do is pack the car and the journey can begin!

The Adriatic city of Pescara: more than a typical Italian seaside resort

Italy

PatrickJullien

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7. April 2022

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The Adriatic city of Pescara: more than a typical Italian seaside resort

Pescara is pretty much right in the middle of the Italian boot. The city, which has just under 120,000 inhabitants, is directly connected to the Adriatic Sea. In Germany, Pescara is mainly known as a holiday destination for beach and sun lovers. But the city has much more to offer than just 20 kilometers of expansive sandy beaches, gelato, pizza and Campari Orange. Pescara has many interesting museums, such as the Museo delle Genti d’Abruzzo, which provides information about the rich historical past of the city.

In addition, the red wine Montepulciano d’Abruzzo, which is known and loved far beyond the borders of Italy, is grown and pressed around Pescara. The best conditions for gourmets, because you can enjoy excellent antipasti and freshly caught fish. In addition, the Pescara Jazz Festival takes place here every year in July and August, where international jazz greats such as Joan Baez perform again and again.

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In the midst of locals on the Adriatic beach of Pescara

Sacro Cuore di Gesu, Image: Dariusz Jarzabek / shutterstock

Pescara is not only very popular with international guests. Local tourists also like to travel here, especially from the capital Rome. That’s why on the beaches of Pescara you often have the feeling of immersing yourself deeply in Italian everyday life, as Italian is usually spoken around you. All the beaches of the seaside resort of Pescara have one thing in common: they have an excellent infrastructure. Bathing loungers are rented, there are changing rooms and showers everywhere and the physical well-being is not neglected between cafés and beach bars. No wonder that Pescara attracts families and older tourists in particular, who appreciate this comfort very much.

The closer the beaches are to the city centre, the better equipped they are with children’s play areas and sports facilities such as volleyball courts or surfing and diving schools. If you like it quieter, you can still travel to Pescara and simply visit one of the beaches a little further away, for example the Spiaggia di Punta Ferruccio, which is located a little south of the city. Here it is relatively lonely to swim below a cliff. As a rule, this enchanted-looking sand and pebble beach is only shared with a few campers. By the way, if you travel to Pescara in August, you often have the opportunity to be sailed across the Adriatic Sea by a real local fisherman on his fishing boat.

Because then there is a fishing ban in Pescara’s fishing grounds and the fishermen use the free time for a small sideline and tourists drive along the coast in their fishing boats. In addition, the great fishermen’s festival takes place in the port and off the coast of Pescara in August, which is a real highlight in the city’s calendar of events.

A visit to Gabriele D’Annunzio, the city’s most famous son

Gabriele D’Annunzio was born in Pescara on March 12, 1863. The writer is still considered the city’s best-known son. In the meantime, a museum has been housed in his honour in his birthplace. On display here are all kinds of personal items from the writer’s possession, such as letters and writing instruments. In addition, when visiting the museum, you can take a journey through time that will take you back to the turn of the century 19. To 20th century, because the building is furnished in the style of that time. There is original furniture and room furnishings as well as clothing and everyday objects of that time to visit.

Small but nice: the Museo delle Genti d’Abruzzo

The Museo delle Genti d’Abruzzo is all about the region where Pescara is based, Abruzzo. It is housed in a former Bourbon prison building. The collection includes archaeological finds from the city area as well as historical everyday objects from a time when Pescara and the surrounding region were still extremely rural. A variety of historical agricultural equipment completes the museum’s interesting collection.

The most important religious buildings in the city: The Basilica of the Madonna dei Sette Dolori and the Cathedral of San Cetteo

As probably in all of Italy, there is a church, basilica or cathedral to visit on every corner in Pescara. The Cathedral di San Cetteo was not built until around 1930, but it is still the most important Catholic church in the city. It is furnished with valuable paintings donated by the prince of poets Gabriele D’Annunzio. The Basilica of the Madonna dei Sette Dolori is dedicated to St. Mary. Here, too, the interior of the basilica, built in the 17th century, is particularly worth seeing. Legend has it that the basilica was built in a holy place. According to legend, an image of Saint Mary was once sighted on the square where the Basilica of the Madonna dei Sette Dolori stands today.

The Museo dell’Ottocento Fondazione Di Persio-Pallotta: a haven of art

All those who are into art and paintings, and especially appreciate landscape painting, should not miss a visit to the Museo dell’Ottocento Fondazione Di Persio-Pallotta when they are in Pescara. The focus of the permanent collection is on paintings, sculptures and drawings from the 19th century. The works of Italian painters and sculptors, such as Vincenzo Caprile, Giuseppe Casciaro and Edoardo Dalbono, are exhibited here. However, there are also some works of art by French artists such as those of Théodore Rousseau, Narcisse Virgilio Diaz de la Pena or Constat Troyon.

Holidays at the Kaiserstuhl

Germany

PatrickJullien

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7. April 2022

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The sun terraces of the Kaiserstuhl rise like islands between the Black Forest and the Rhine. With a mild climate and many hours of sunshine, nature has not only left us a gem for viticulture, but also offers an abundance of flora and fauna that is second to none. This wonderful nature can be explored all year round with many possibilities. Whether by bike, e-bike or the classic hiking stick. After the day-long excursion, you will find the right food depending on your culinary taste.

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The region of the Kaiserstuhl

The Kaiserstuhl in the Black Forest is a small low mountain range in the south of Baden-Württemberg. Nestled between the beautiful Black Forest and the beautiful Rhine, the highest elevation of the Kaiserstuhl is the Totenkopf at 556 meters. What makes the Kaiserstuhl special is its climatic conditions, as the region is one of the warmest regions in Germany. The region owes its wealth of flora and fauna to its volcanic origin. Even today, the earth is covered with loess, which creates excellent properties for viticulture.

Excursion destinations in the Kaiserstuhl

Visitors are not only attracted to the region because of the wine. The Kaiserstuhl also has a lot to offer in terms of excursion destinations. Hikers in particular get their money’s worth due to the countless natural hiking trails. On eight different themed trails, everyone can get to know the dreamlike nature individually. Particularly noteworthy is the Kaiserstuhlpfad, which opened in 2010 and shines with several awards. It is around 21.7 kilometres long and leads from Endingen to Ihringen.

Here, the hiker first crosses the Ehrletal and the Katharinenkapelle. He then climbs the Bandberg up to the Eichelspitzturm and then reaches the Neulingerturm via the Vosges Pass. The last stage goes from Bickensohl over the Kreuzbuck to Ihringen.

Those who prefer to cycle in the Kaiserstuhl will also get their money’s worth. The entire area can be explored on numerous circular tours. Some mountains can be climbed, but relaxed tours that bypass the mountains are also possible. Both hikers and cyclists will find a varied stay in one of the countless winegrowers’ cooperatives on the Kaiserstuhl.

Culinary delights at the Kaiserstuhl

A special feature of the Kaiserstuhl is the symbiosis of cuisine and wine. Whether TOP gastronomy, traditional inn or simple snack bar – here you will always be accompanied by wine. In the expansive variety of Baden wines, the right one is found for every palate. If you want to go deeper into the kitchen and wine symbiosis, a wine menu is an excellent opportunity.

Sights

First of all, the special sights of the Kaiserstuhl include the fantastic vantage points along the hiking routes. Towers were also erected at some vantage points, such as the Neunlindeturm and the Eichelspitzturm.

But museum lovers will also get their money’s worth. In Vogtsburg, for example, viticulture can be explored in more detail in the Viticulture Museum , in Endingen you can learn a lot about the craft of cheese dairies and archaeological excavations can be admired in Riegel.

The towns of Burkheim and Endingen with their old towns are considered particularly beautiful in the Kaiserstuhl. Here, too, the winegrowers and the wine associated with them are always present.

Accommodations at the Kaiserstuhl

Hotel Landhaus Blum Kaiserstuhl, Image: Heuboden.de

When it comes to accommodation, every visitor in the Kaiserstuhl also gets their money’s worth. At the 4-star Hotel Landhaus Blum in Umkirch , you can switch off from everyday life in peace and enjoy your days off in spacious and comfortable rooms. From flat-screen TVs to toiletries and walk-in showers, every luxury is catered for. The extensive breakfast offer of the 51-room hotel is particularly popular with guests.

A varied breakfast – and plenty of time for it? Holidaymakers will find this at the Hotel Heu.Loft, which is also located in Umkirch. The design-oriented hotel, which only opened in 2019, scores with high-quality furnishings and traditional charm with Black Forest flair. In addition to 46 rooms, 6 other suites also offer enough space for smaller families to spend relaxing days in the Upper Rhine Lowlands.

But there are now also some motorhome pitches for travellers on four wheels: In addition to campsites, there are now some motorhome pitches: the offer is supplemented by private accommodation and holiday apartments.

Day trips around the Kaiserstuhl

Panoramic view of Freiburg, Image: Sina Ettmer Photography / shutterstock

If you are on holiday in the Kaiserstuhl, you should take the opportunity to visit the Feldberg . The Feldberg is the highest mountain in the Black Forest and is particularly attractive for its skiing and hiking areas.
The lakes in the Black Forest are also worth a visit. The well-known Titisee is particularly noteworthy here. But the Schluchsee is also worth a visit.
In just 30 minutes by car you can reach Freiburg im Breisgau
If there are children on the trip, it is worth a day visit to the amusement park in Rust. Numerous rides can be visited at Europapark. The fun is certainly not lacking on such a day

Tips at the Kaiserstuhl

A special tip for the Kaiserstuhl region is the Konus guest card. This gives holidaymakers free access to buses and trains. The free service can also be used over longer distances into the Black Forest.

The Kaiserstuhl offers an abundance of activities, excellent cuisine and a very good wine. Here, every visitor gets their money’s worth and can have a great time.