All about travel

Bibione – Italy’s diverse holiday paradise

Italy

PatrickJullien

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29. June 2021

Bibione – Italy’s diverse holiday paradise

Located on the right bank of the Tagliamento River, the town of San Michele Al Tagliamento is rather unknown, but the Bibione district is known worldwide and is considered a true holiday paradise for all ages and types of holidaymakers. Since the 1950s, the seaside resort has been magically attracting sun worshippers and those hungry for relaxation and inspires with its wonderful sandy beach, a good tourist infrastructure and excellent excursion opportunities.

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Holidays between beach and pine forests

Lighthouse of Bibione, Image: AerialVision_it / shutterstock

The popular resort of Bibione comes alive during the holiday season. With only 3,000 inhabitants and over 100,000 places to stay for holidaymakers, Bibione is very quiet out of season. But in the summer months, the resort delights with its extensive sandy beach, pine forests, a variety of hotels, holiday resorts, campsites, restaurants and bars and discos. Depending on your personal preferences, you can spend your holidays in Bibione very individually, as the lively resort offers suitable opportunities for every type of holiday.

Bibione – pure beach fun

Bibione’s 11-kilometre-long sandy beach offers plenty of space to sunbathe and relax, and at the same time there is plenty of space for sporting activities and for children who want to enjoy their stay on the family-friendly beach while playing and romping. Depending on the stretch of beach, there are also entertainment programmes for children and adults, so you are guaranteed not to get bored. While the beach at Bibione Spiaggia is ideal for families and offers a very good infrastructure and many sports and leisure facilities, the beach at Lido del Sole is much quieter and invites you to relax.

Beach in Bibione — The extensive beach of Bibione, Image: Climber 1959 / shutterstock

The beach section of Lido di Pini and Bibione Pineda is particularly idyllic, because here the beach is surrounded by shady pine trees. There are 6 first aid stations spread over the entire length of the beach and the beach is supervised by lifeguards. In addition, there are 6 service islands with changing rooms, toilets, showers and much more. Water sports enthusiasts can work out with surfing, sailing, kayaking, diving and many other activities. In addition, on the beach at Bibione Spiaggia there are courts for bocce, tennies, football, beach volleyball and other sports. On the beach there are also some playgrounds for children, who can quickly come into contact with their peers.

Bibione Thermal Baths

Picturesquely surrounded by pine trees, the state-approved Bibione thermal baths attract visitors with its wide range of spa, wellness and beauty treatments. The complex with its indoor thermal pools and a large outdoor area with thermal pools offers a magnificent view of the sea. The 52 ° C warm, mineral-rich thermal water also ensured that the level of awareness of Bibione was significantly increased beyond the borders of Italy. Today, the spa also scores with saunas, a hypersaline bath, a Turkish bath, a polarium, experience showers and a salt grotto.

Sights and attractions in and around Bibione

As a touristic place, Bibione itself offers only a few sights. However, if you are exploring the town, it is worth stopping at the Chiesa Santa Maria Assunta. Also worth seeing is the historic lighthouse of Bibione, which can be found directly at the mouth of the Tagliamento and is surrounded by a nature reserve and is a nice destination for a short hike. A very nice way to explore Bibione and the surrounding area is to take a bike ride, because the inner-city cycle path leads to the most beautiful places in Bibione and runs from east to west along the seafront. On this occasion, it is worth visiting the historic fishermen’s huts.

One of the attractions for families is the Luna Park in Bibione. The amusement park with its nostalgic rides inspires its visitors just as much as the Parco Zoo Punta Verde, which presents animal species from all over the world with its large, well-kept facility. Fun for the whole family is also guaranteed by a visit to the Unicef Adventure Park in Lignano Sabbiadoro. The Parco Junior also attracts visitors with play facilities for small children.

Excursions from Bibione

A holiday in Bibione can be crowned with a trip to the lagoon city of Venice . Here, unique sights such as the Basilica of San Marco and the Doge’s Palace beckon. But a trip to Trieste with its fantastic historical sights is also extremely worthwhile not only for art lovers. But the towns of Concordia, Sagittaria and Aquileia, located near Bibione, also attract visitors with unique sights and allow you to walk in the footsteps of Italian history. Around Bibione, for example, you can marvel at an ancient forum, a Roman inland port, basilicas and many other historical gems, such as the Abbey of Santa Maria in Sesto Al Reghena or the Palazzi Signorili monastery complex in Cordovado. In addition, there are numerous museums that beckon, such as the Museo Paleontologico, which offers a glimpse into history.

Tips for a relaxed trip with pets

All about travel

PatrickJullien

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28. June 2021

0

Survey shows: Most pet owners take their pet with them on vacation in 2021

After the pet boom in Corona times, more pet owners than ever are asking themselves questions such as: What do you need to consider when choosing a destination? And what do I have to do to make the trip a positive experience for my pet as well? The World Animal Welfare Society (WTG) gives tips and reveals which destinations are particularly popular for holidaymakers with animals this year.

A survey of more than 1,000 pet owners by the World Animal Welfare Society (WTG) has shown that almost 60 percent of respondents are planning a trip with an animal this year. When animals accompany their owners on vacation, they are overwhelmingly dogs (94 percent). All other animals are far less common on trips. The most common among them is the cat (4 percent), followed by horses and guinea pigs (each under 1 percent).

Almost half of those surveyed emphasized that vacationing without an animal was unimaginable. The animal is a family member who also belongs on vacation. “To experience shared experiences and the joy of the animal, to explore a new area, is simply beautiful,” one participant left in the comments.

When choosing a holiday destination in 2021, almost half of travellers are drawn to German holiday destinations. The other top destinations are Italy, France, the Netherlands and Austria. Long distances to the destination are therefore more likely to be avoided by pet owners, which could also be due to the pandemic. With a few exceptions, the participants refrain from long-distance travel when planning – especially with animals. This is also reflected in the choice of means of transport: 84 percent of people travelling with pets use the car. In second place is traveling by motorhome or camper van (7 percent), again an individual means of travel. Trains (4 percent) and airplanes (3 percent) apparently play only a minor role in traveling with animals this year.

The survey also shows that a third of pet owners have already had difficulties or problems in the past when traveling with animals. By far the most frequently mentioned problem was finding pet-friendly accommodation. Also widespread were problems when traveling by public transport and the prohibition of having dogs with you during activities on vacation (e.g. on the beach or in shops).

But with good planning and travel preparation, unpleasant surprises can usually be avoided.

Common difficulties in choosing animal-friendly accommodation can be prevented from the outset. For example, it is important to ask whether pets are allowed. For the travel budget, it must also be taken into account that daily flat rates for animals are charged and that an adapted final cleaning must be paid in holiday homes or apartments. “It is important that the animal feels as comfortable as possible in the holiday accommodation and can be undisturbed. Therefore, third parties should not have access to the accommodation, especially if the animal is alone,” says WTG Managing Director Katharina Kohn.

“A trip with an animal should definitely be a positive experience for all travelers – including the four-legged friends,” explains Katharina Kohn, Managing Director of WTG. “Sufficient lead time in travel planning is one of the most important factors for this to succeed.” Travel preparations should include having the animal checked by a veterinarian in advance and researching the contact details of a veterinary practice at the destination. It is also important to deal with the destination country or place with regard to the local rules for animals. A bag with the most important emergency utensils, e.g. wound spray and bandages, should also always be kept ready.

Pet owners should also take a close look at their way to their destination in advance and, for example, look for suitable resting places for dogs off the motorway.

Ultimately, it is crucial that the needs of the animal are sufficiently taken into account when travelling. “Then the chances are good that the holiday will bring many positive shared experiences for both humans and animals and at the same time strengthen the bond between animal and owner,” says Katharina Kohn.

Even if traveling without an animal is unimaginable for most people, the following should still apply: If it is already clear in advance that the well-being of the animal cannot be sufficiently taken into account on vacation or that the journey would be associated with a lot of stress for the animal, care by a third party should be considered: “An animal whose needs cannot be satisfied on vacation, better stay in good hands at home, in a guesthouse, with friends, family or neighbors,” says Katharina Kohn.

Interested parties can find a lot of other advice on travelling with animals at:
https://welttierschutz.org/reisen-mit-tieren/

Most beautiful beaches in Vietnam

Viet Nam

PatrickJullien

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28. June 2021

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Blue clear, bathtub-warm water, white sand and sea turtles, these are the Vietnamese dream beaches for every vacationer. The 5 most beautiful beaches of Vietnam are presented here. They are one of the sights that you should have seen on Vietnam tours .

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An Bang Beach near Hoi An

An Bang, Vietnam — The beautiful beach An Bang, Image: Irina Sokolovskaya / shutterstock

An Bang is one of the most beautiful beaches ever. The most beautiful beaches in Vietnam are located at the northern end of Hoi An. Bang Beach is in the list of the 50 most beautiful beaches in the world, which was voted by CNN Go in 2011. Bang beach is known by many domestic and international tourists and has become a famous seaside resort. An Bang Beach is located in the Cam An district, about 7 km from the center of Hoi An city. It is relatively quiet and there are a few round of Vietnamese fishing boats there. The water is sometimes a little chilly and not quite as warm, especially if you fly there a little earlier in the year. There you can enjoy the sun wonderfully and you should not forget the picnic head. Hoi An Old Town is one of the most popular tourist destinations.

Here are tips for Hoi An beach and sights that invite you to visit. It offers beautiful old houses and an atmospheric harbour. The city is located on the South China Sea. Many excursions can also be easily organized from there. Don’t forget the old town in the heart of Hoi An. Many charming little houses and an old temple as well as restaurants, bars and shops are waiting for the tourists there. The city was also declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1999. An Bang beach is still very unspoilt and rustic. The sea water is as pure as a clear jade green color. Unlike the hustle and bustle of other beach resorts, An Bang Beach in Hoi An brings a sense of relaxation through its simplicity. A peaceful beauty, gentle but strangely attractive.

Dam Trau Beach on Con Son Island – Con Dao

Dam trau Beach is also called Airport Beach in Con Dao. It is one of the most beautiful beaches in Vietnam. A golden beach with fine sand is perfect for bathing in the warm turquoise waters. The beach is surrounded by a jungle with two slightly rustic beach cafes. There is something delicious to eat or drinks if needed. The beach is relatively quiet and the Con Son airport has its runway right behind it. However, this is not particularly disturbing, as a maximum of 8 flights a day depart from there. Con Dao is one of the largest dung sites for sea turtles ever. They come to the beaches from May to November and lay their eggs. In addition, the National Park of Con Dao presents itself and offers an insight into the habitat of sea turtles. For those interested in history, you can visit the prison of Con Dao. The French built it in 1862 and imprisoned Vietnamese revolutionaries there. But the highlights are still the beach and the national park. During hikes, the biodiversity of the national park can be viewed and the beach offers enough space for relaxation. Divers and snorkeling are also having fun there.

Coconut Beach – Phu Quoc

Coconut Beach is surrounded by palm trees. One of the most beautiful beaches in Vietnam is located at a small resort of a Swiss-Vietnamese family. It is relatively remote and also surrounded by a dense jungle. The place scores not only with its sandy beaches, but also with colorful markets and other sights, such as the Dinh Cau Temple, which was built in 1937 in honor of the Thien Hau nautical charts. There, local fishermen and sailors are asked for protection before setting off for the sea. At the An-Dong Market, fish and seafood are delivered from the nearby port. For culinary friends, there is an interesting variety of food there. Colorful fruit and vegetable stalls make the market very worth seeing. In addition, there is the relatively new attraction, the hon Thom Cable Car, a cable car. It is about 8 km long, making it one of the longest cable cars in the world. The gondola ride takes about 20 minutes and leads to the holiday island of Hon Thom.

The Nhat Beach on Con Son Island near Con Dao

Nhat Beach Con Dao, Vietnam — Nhat Beach on Con Dao, Image: Tappasan Phurisamrit / shutterstock

Con Dao is an archipelago east of mainland Vietnam. Tourism is not very developed and the beaches are relatively remote and empty. Nhat Beach is located on the western side of the island and is surrounded by meadows and forests. The only companions are thousands of crabs that like the warm water. Bai Nhat is listed in the top 6 wild, beautiful beaches in Asia. The best time to admire the perfect beauty of Nhat Beach is from May to September. At this time, the weather in Con Dao is very nice, the temperature is a bit high, but ideal for pleasurable activities and swimming.

Ninh Chu Beach at Phan Rang

Ninh Chu Beach is located near the city of Phan Rang. One of the most beautiful beaches in Vietnam is suitable for kite surfers and is aimed at professional kite surfers. The city presents corresponding events. Of course, you can also swim wonderfully here. During the day, the beaches are rather deserted. Only in the evening do the locals cavort there. There are also small food stalls that provide everyone with food. Phan Rang is also located on the South China Sea. The ideal time to visit Ninh Chu Beach is from June to August.

These five traditional casinos and casinos are worth a trip

All about travel

PatrickJullien

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28. June 2021

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These five traditional casinos and casinos are worth a trip

Gambling was and still is one of the most popular pastimes in the world. For this reason, there are many different casinos all over the world that continue to do well even after the advent of online gambling.

Casinos have become great and diverse entertainment hubs that offer much more than just gambling. For those who don’t feel like going to a conventional casino, the Internet offers many opportunities to play comfortably in one of the popular online casinos.

On the Internet, you can find just the right casino for every taste, such as
on http://www.neueonline-casinos.com/pay-n-play
. But if you prefer to go to a real casino and take a look at one of the most traditional casinos in the world, you will find them in this article.

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Bellagio, Las Vegas, USA

When it comes to the most famous and traditional casinos in the world, the Bellagio in Las Vegas simply cannot be missed. The Bellagio is both a casino and a luxury hotel and was first opened in 1998. Shortly after, the Bellagio became a Las Vegas landmark. With a total area of over 100,000 square meters, the Bellagio is one of the largest real-world casinos in the world.

The adjoining hotel has about 4,000 rooms. Among them are a few luxury suites where a single night can cost tens of thousands of dollars. The casino also boasts one of the most popular poker tables around the world. Large poker tournaments with professional players are regularly held there.

The interior of the Bellagio is already very impressive, but the big and well-known feature of this casino is the oversized fountain in front of the hotel and casino. It attracts a lot of tourists due to its choreographed performances, which are accompanied by music and lights and are a real spectacle.

If travel is possible again in the near future, then the Bellagio and Vegas in general are always worth a trip. The Bellagio also plays an important role in many films, which is why it should not be missing from the list of the most traditional casinos in the world.

Taj Mahal Casino Resort, Atlantic City, United States

The official name of this casino is now Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, but despite this, it is still called by the old name Taj Mahal by many visitors. The name Taj Mahal was only active from 1990 to 2016 and was replaced by the name Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, but this was met with disappointment by visitors.

The casino was opened by the last president of the United States in the person of Donald Trump and gained its fame due to huge investments that were necessary to build the huge building. There are even some estimates that the cost of building the casino has reached almost a billion dollars.

The Taj Mahal didn’t really start at the beginning and it took a few years for the casino to have the reputation it has today. But its fame earned the Taj Mahal the reputation of Atlantic City’s landmark. In 2016, the casino was closed for a short time in 2016 and reopened after a complete renovation.

In the course of this, the name was also changed, but this did not detract from the fame. The casino has an area of approximately 167,000 square meters and offers its visitors thousands of slot machines and gaming tables, as well as luxury restaurants, theaters, and hotel rooms.

Casino Baden-Baden, Baden-Baden, Germany

Baden-Baden is a German spa town in Baden-Württemberg and a very popular tourist spot for well-to-do, elderly people. The Casino Baden-Baden is housed in the old Kurhaus Baden-Baden and convinces the players not only with its beautiful building.

The building was built in 1824, making it one of the oldest casino buildings in the world. Baden-Baden is very popular with tourists and is now opening its doors again. When gambling was banned in France in the 1830s, many rich people from France decided to open the casino in Baden-Baden. The reason for this is Baden-Baden’s immediate proximity to the French border.

The casino and the old Kurhaus are also known for having hosted many important events such as chess tournaments, various congresses and, above all, a NATO summit. Another notable fact about the casino is that the Russian writer Dostoyevsky was supposedly inspired to write his famous novel “The Gambler” when he visited the casino in Baden-Baden.

Casino Baden-Baden trumps all other casinos in that it is not just a casino, but a true luxury temple for the rich upper class and not really a place for the simple gambler. Guests must also strictly adhere to the dress code in Baden-Baden and also pay expensive entrance fees.

Venetian Casino, Macau, China

Casinos in Macau — View of Macau, Image: trabantos / shutterstock

If you’ve ever looked at Macau from a distance, you’d immediately wonder where the many unmissable lights come from and what they illuminate. The reason for the light is the gambling city of Macau in China. Macau is one of the largest gambling cities in the world after Las Vegas in the USA.

Macau is home to some of the largest casinos in the world, including the famous Venetian Casino. The casino is located in the middle of a beautiful cascade in a graceful and modern design. In addition, the casino shines many bright colors into the sky and offers its guests everything that makes the player’s heart beat faster on over 10,000 square meters.

The Venetian Casino in Macau is also modeled after its sister casino in the USA in Las Vegas and offers its guests a luxurious hotel with over 30,000 beds. As in Baden-Baden, the guests in Macau are mainly rich players with a lot of money and rather less normal players who like to gamble for low amounts.

MGM Grand, Las Vegas, USA

The MGM Grand in Las Vegas, Nevada is one of the most famous and best casinos in the world. In terms of revenue and profit, the MGM Grand also beats all other casinos on the Strip in Las Vegas. The traditional casino was opened in 1993 and is now the third largest casino ever. The MGM Grand has also become known worldwide through many films and series.

The MGM Grand covers more than 150,000 square meters and also has more than 3,000 slots and slot machines and also has over 130 poker and gaming tables. In addition to the casino, the MGM Grand also has many good restaurants, which are always well attended. The MGM Grand is therefore not only interesting for gamers, but also for strolling and eating out.

Holidays on the Island of Flowers: the most beautiful places in Madeira

Portugal

PatrickJullien

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26. June 2021

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Holidays on the Island of Flowers: the most beautiful places in Madeira

Madeira is a true pearl that captivates with a mild climate and plenty of sunshine all year round. The island in the Atlantic Ocean belongs to Portugal, and thus to the EU. However, geographically speaking, the island is closer to Morocco. 737 kilometres separate the European island from the African mainland. In addition to a varied and exciting flora and fauna, Madeira can also boast historic towns and villages with original charm that invite you to visit and relax.

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The island’s capital, Funchal

Funchal Botanical Garden, Madeira — The botanical garden of Funchal, Image: Cristian Mircea Balate / shutterstock

If you come to the island of Madeira , you usually end up in Funchal – whether by plane or cruise ship. With around 115,000 inhabitants, Funchal to the south is by far the largest city on the island, and the tourist magnet par excellence. Funchal’s old town is picturesquely located directly on the coast. In the narrow streets of the old town, it is wonderful to walk past small traditional shops and quaint restaurants and bars. If you want to experience the real life of the islanders, you should definitely visit the Mercado dos Lavradores. Here, locals and tourists alike stock up on fresh fruits, such as passion fruit, mangoes, guavas and bananas grown in Madeira, which are very popular here. Flower bulbs can also be purchased here.

Madeira is considered the flower island of Europe par excellence – anyone who has ever visited the Botanical Garden of Funchal will know why. The best way to get there from the city centre is by cable car. Already on the way, a breathtaking view stretches over the city. In addition, there are a whole series of churches worth seeing, such as the Sé Cathedral. Palaces that were built in colonial style often contain museums and can be visited inside and outside. For example, you can see everyday objects, antique furniture, paintings and azulejo, the typical Portuguese tiles. Football fans head for the Cristiano Ronaldo Museum, where there are numerous memorabilia of the footballer such as trophies, jerseys and fan letters to see. The ball artist is the most famous son of the island.

The Piscina Naturais of Porto Moniz

Porto Moniz, Piscinas Naturais Velhas, Madeira — Piscina Naturais of Porto Moniz, Image: Sina Ettmer Photography / shutterstock

Much smaller than Funchal is the coastal town of Porto Moniz. In the somewhat sleepy small town, at the very northwestern tip of the island, only about 1,700 inhabitants live. Nevertheless, the place, which was home to whalers in earlier times, is absolutely worth seeing. Directly in front of the waterfront promenade are several Piscina Naturais, natural swimming pools that have formed from volcanic rock. Here you can relax in the warmed Atlantic water and listen to the sound of the sea. In addition to tourism, fishing is now the main occupation of the inhabitants of Porto Moniz. Therefore, you should definitely try freshly caught swordfish with Madeira bananas and passion fruit sauce in one of the fish restaurants located directly on the harbour. Afterwards, you can track down the sea creatures in the Centro Ciência Viva, a show aquarium.

The thatched farmhouses of Santana

Santana is located on the north coast of Madeira and is widely known for its small thatched houses, which from the outside look like brick, brightly painted Indian teepees. Their peculiar architectural form made the houses one of the landmarks of the island. The thatched roofs have to be renewed about every four to five years: if you are lucky, you will come at the right time to witness this ancient task. In the past, the farmers of the village lived in the traditional houses, but today many of them are no longer inhabited, but can be visited. The houses are part of the Madeira Theme Park, which provides information about the history and culture of the entire island. Santana is also surrounded by a densely wooded mountain landscape, which has held the title of UNESCO Biosphere Reserve since 2011. If you are already here, you should take a hike into the enchanting surroundings.

The romantic fishing village of Camara de Lobos

Camara de Lobos, Madeira — Camara de Lobos, Image: Cristian Mircea Balate / shutterstock

Just a few kilometres from Funchal is Camara de Lobos. The place is considered one of the most original in all of Madeira. If you are good on foot, Camara de Lobos can be approached from Funchal via a coastal hiking trail that offers magnificent views of the Atlantic Ocean. Even from afar you can see a whole row of wooden fishing boats, which are still in service here. The place itself was built on stone cliffs. So on a walk through the small town, it goes up and down a lot. Above the fishing village lies the most important growing area of Madeira wine. In the small bars of the old town, you can enjoy a glass of it in a romantic setting.

Machico: a visit to the oldest city in Madeira

Bay of Machico, one of the famous beaches of Madeira Island, Image: Cristian Mircea Balate / shutterstock

In July 1419, Portuguese explorers landed on the island of Madeira for the first time, and started the settlement of the island from here. This was the beginning of the history of the island as part of Portugal. Machico quickly developed into the center of sugar cane cultivation. The Capela dos Milagres church, built in the 15th century, is not only worth a visit, but also the oldest church on the island. Just like in the chapel of São Roque, the famous Portuguese tile paintings can be admired there. The Solar do Ribeirinho, a former mansion built in colonial style, houses a museum on local history. Near the quay of Machico, the Fort São João Baptista, built in the 18th century, rises above the city. Tourists are also attracted by a Caribbean-looking sandy beach, which was artificially created in the middle of the city center. This sandy beach is an absolute speciality in Madeira, where there are otherwise only stone beaches.

Three strong company outings in 2021 – finally getting out together again

Germany

PatrickJullien

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24. June 2021

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Three strong company outings in 2021 – finally getting out together again

We have been living in a very unusual situation for more than a year – one lockdown followed the next and personal contact with our fellow human beings, work colleagues and friends has been neglected. Reason enough, then, to be able to take a deep breath again. Summer is here and with it we are all happy to be able to get out again: whether in nature, in the city or at the lake it doesn’t matter for the time being – the main thing is that we are together again.

What is important for each and every one of us privately is all the more important for the job. We have now seen enough of our colleagues in front of the camera in the home office. Now it’s time to get out again and enjoy the summer together – for example, at exciting

company outing ideas

that will become a real hit, especially in summer 2021. We take a look at three of the best company outings and tell you about our experience:

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1. Off-road through the terrain of the Eifel

The Eifel is embedded in western Germany and is divided into the North Eifel and Volcanic Eifel and stretches from north to south on a line from Euskirchen in North Rhine-Westphalia almost to Trier. Many also speak of the South Eifel when it comes to the geographical area in Bitburg in Rhineland-Palatinate. We dared to take part in an off-road challenge on Polaris vehicles and raced cross-country through nature. The team event provides adrenaline and a lot of fun, although you don’t necessarily have to be very sporty to participate.

We steered the vehicles ourselves and thus made our way through rough terrain deep in the Eifel. In between, we stopped and were able to enjoy bread on a stick at the campfire at the edge of a cave. If you want, you can abseil down a cliff that goes down about 20 meters – it’s a real adrenaline rush. Finally, we enjoyed a picnic at a lake and learned how to build a raft. In the best weather, we then ventured out onto the lake with our watercraft, which meant a wet adventure for some of us. Due to the perfect weather we were able to dry quickly and the barbecue in the evening inspired everyone once again.

Learn more about

the off-road rally through the Eifel

2. Scavenger hunt with app through the city

First of all: if someone thinks that a scavenger hunt is only for children, you are far from it. We are absolutely thrilled with this company outing, which, by the way, can take place almost anywhere. We booked the scavenger hunt in Cologne and were able to see various hot spots up close. We started at the cathedral in Cologne – during the first tasks we already noticed that real Cologne knowledge is not really available – but we still did well. The scavenger hunt is carried out with an innovative app and includes quiz questions, some of which are very funny, music rate games, video challenges and portrait shots. We played in two teams to strengthen the challenge character.

The scavenger hunt led us along the Rhine towards Cologne’s old town. Fortunately, the local restaurateurs were allowed to reopen, at least in the outdoor area, which is why we were able to enjoy a few “snacks”. Exciting tasks were also partly physical puzzles, in which we had to draw certain caricatures and thus create connections.

The app is very easy to understand and we were thrilled. You can use the app for private events. Best of all, it is free of charge for private users, so you can also spontaneously design the children’s birthday party innovatively at any time.

Learn more about

the scavenger hunt with app

Beach party or farm event as a company outing

The combination sounds a bit crazy, but both topics for company outings have so much in common. Because both team events are about winning. At the Beach Olympics and Farm Olympics, we showed who is physically and mentally ahead of the others. At the Farmers’ Olympics, wheelbarrow races, rubber boot throwing and, as the supreme discipline, cow milking competitions on a noble wooden cow called “b-etty” are not neglected. On the other hand, it is different at the Beach Olympics, where the aim is to knock over the opposing team in the sand in a tug-of-war or to compete together and against each other in beach volleyball games.

Both company outings also have it in terms of culinary delights: a barbecue awaits all guests at the end, cool drinks throughout the day and music ensures the best atmosphere. For us, this is a reason to plan both events again, as they – like the other tips – last a whole day and really provide distraction.

Find out more about the beach Olympics, a company outing or a team event on the farm

Result:

It felt like we had survived the pandemic, at least for a few hours. Despite the distance, these company outings not only offer fun and entertainment, but also provide more motivation in the team. Everyone is carried away by the group idea – this has flipped the switch for us and shown us that it is best to be outdoors together.

Pollença, the pearl of the north of Mallorca

PatrickJullien

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22. June 2021

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Pollença, the pearl of the north of Mallorca

Mallorca’s northeast is not free of surprises… Located in the northernmost part of the Serra de Tramuntana, the town of Pollenca is one of the most atmospheric on the island.
Where the mountain range and the sea meet, on a wide curving Mediterranean bay, the town invites you to stroll with its winding streets, picturesque natural stone houses and important art treasures.

And yet the country town is quite idiosyncratic. With a dozen art galleries and the annual international music festival, Pollenca stands out from the rest of the provincial towns. In addition, the mostly wealthy Pollencin residents cultivate their own dialect and traditional crafts.

You can tell that the town with its port offshoot Port de Pollenca is a special place. A place for lovers of beauty, a place for Mallorca connoisseurs.

A look at the history book reveals: Several megalithic buildings prove that people settled in the area as early as the Bronze Age. It dates back to Roman times, which is still well
bridge over the Torrent de Sant Jordi on the northern edge of Pollenca. The proximity of the Roman city of Pollentia (near today’s Alcudia) brought prosperity, but this soon dried up due to the vandal storms of the 5th century. The really big time dawned with the Moors, who transformed the valley into a lush garden with their water pumping technology. After the Christian reconquest, churches and monasteries were built.

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Arrive & look around

Here, where the cliffs fall 200 metres deep into the Mediterranean Sea and a road boldly carved into the rock winds over 18 kilometres from Port de Pollenca to the lighthouse of Mallorca’s northeastern tip, built in 1892, the town of Pollenca spreads its very own flair: its location and atmosphere make it something special – Pollenca is a Mallorcan work of art.

Between heavenly realms and earthly pleasures

Two hundred and sixty-five steps lead to the Calvary in the shade of dark cypresses. The road struggles upwards in narrow serpentines – twelve large stone crosses testify to the importance of this hill. Via the Stations of the Cross you finally reach the small pilgrimage church with the large view. This view of the town, the Puig de Maria opposite, up to the two bays of Pollenca and Alcudia is just as stunning as the one on the stairway mountain of the “calvari” – as ochre-coloured and cypress-lined as the houses of the town.

Must see! Active and creative in the pretty artists’ town of Pollenca….

A visit to the Casa Museum Dionis Bennassár on Roca 14 is worthwhile. In the house of the artist Dionis Bennássar (1904-1967), 240 of his works are exhibited. The artist belonged to the group around the Art Nouveau painter Hermenegildo Anglada Camaraca.

Others end up in Puig de Maria, the city’s local mountain, crowned by the former nunnery Mare de Déu del Puig. Just behind the last houses of the monastery complex, the path leads to an old pilgrimage path. From there, there is a stunning view.

Tip: a stop at the Klosterstübchen compensates for a rather arduous ascent.

Attention festival fans! The popular international music festival takes place every year in August in the courtyard of the Dominican monastery, framed by the cloister. In winter, Mallorcan folklore is offered here on Sundays. In addition, the monastery houses an old people’s home as well as the local history museum.

Water rats, sun worshippers and water sports enthusiasts also get their money’s worth: They all cavort at Cala de Sant Vicenc, located northeast of Pollenca. The beach area is framed by a 300-metre-high rock face in the east.

Bay of Port de Pollenca, Image: vulcano / shutterstock

And finally you reach Port de Pollenca, a “fishing village where you live as life should be, simple and content” …., according to the journalist Gordon West in 1929 on his trip to Mallorca!

Here you walk under ancient pine trees, past beautiful villas and hotels from the Wilhelminian period. Three local areas invite you to linger:

A wide sandy beach that stretches several hundred meters from the southern entrance to the village to the extensive facilities of the marina and fishing port.
Followed by the old town centre with the tree-lined Plaza Miguel Capllonch,
And last but not least, the highlight…., the Passeig Vora Mar with the extension Carrer Colon. This magnificent footpath and cycle path runs for almost 2 kilometres along small shady stretches of beach, past old villas. Almost at the end is the Illa d’Or, the beautifully located (and most expensive) hotel in the town with one of the best restaurant terraces in Mallorca.

But that’s not all! The old fishing village is the hotspot for water sports enthusiasts: For surfers, sailors, kayakers and yacht owners, a paradise is revealed. On the beach by the harbour there is white sand, plenty of space and extensive service.

Pollenca is a lively tourist resort with a rich offer of sports and entertainment. The charming town at the foot of high mountains is undoubtedly one of the most interesting cities on the whole island. The white bay is ideal for windsurfing. In the alleys of the former fishing village, you can still feel the atmosphere that attracted wealthy Britons as early as the 1930s. The fine sandy beaches around the village and the beautiful promenade still inspire.

Don’t miss it! Enjoyment in the most beautiful places – tips for a cosy stop

There are a number of good restaurants near the harbour and on the quay of Port de Pollenca. The typical Mallorcan restaurant Bona Cepa near the harbour and a visit to the bar “Sail & Surf” for a cold beer can be particularly recommended.

No less inspiring is the “Argos”, conspicuous by its simple decoration. There’s nothing to distract from the creative Mediterranean cuisine here – except perhaps the sea view.

It doesn’t get any greener than this: The restaurant of the Pension Bellavista offers the perfect setting for the creative vegetarian recipes – heavenly delights in a magical ambience.

Durbuy – the smallest city in Belgium

Belgium

PatrickJullien

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20. June 2021

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The city of Durbuy is the ideal destination for a weekend getaway with its size. It is located in the Belgian province of Luxembourg and in the Ardennes. Its location makes it an attractive starting point to explore the region with its rich history and charming landscape. Although the village of Durbuy has had city rights since the 14th century, its dimensions do not come close to that of a city. That’s what makes it so charming. It is clearly arranged and at the same time offers numerous sights. In addition to the historic old town, these include the Ourthe, on whose banks Durbuy is located. Near the city are charming destinations such as Wéris or Barvaux.

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Old town and garden art in Durbuy

Old town of Durbuy, Image: NAPA / shutterstock

The highlight in Durbuy is the historic old town. The narrow, cobbled streets lead past well-kept half-timbered houses and remnants of the old city wall. Small shops and cafés make for a longer walk than the size of the old town would suggest. The Halle aux blés from the 16th century, which is part of Wallonia’s exceptional heritage, is worth seeing. Originally it was a grain hall, then an administration building. Nowadays, the house houses a museum of Belgian art on three floors. Rue Daufresne de la Chevalerie is considered the oldest street in the city and is completely paved with pebbles from the Ourthe. Above the old town is the Chateau d’Ursel, the castle of Durbuy. The castle creates a picturesque panorama, but cannot be visited.

The Parc des Topiaires is worth seeing. It is located on the banks of the Ourthe and shows topiary figures. The more than 200 figures made of boxwood attract families in particular. In addition to many animal figures, the shape trees also show people and scenes and stimulate the imagination. A visit to the park is suitable for friends of garden culture with its avenues, beds and trees. Another attraction of the city is the Homalius Rock or Roche à la Falize. On the one hand, it is the highest point in Durbuy. On the other hand, its special shape is a popular photo motif. If you don’t let yourself be distracted by the picturesque lake and the water features, you will discover the different rock layers of the rock formation. From the old town, a promenade leads to the rock.

The historic town centre is small and the distances to the other attractions of the city are short. Nevertheless, it is worthwhile for visitors to take the tourist train, the Petit Train Touristique, as it provides excellent views.

Discover Durbuy culinary or on the river

Château de Durbuy — Durbuy Castle, Image: Sergey Dzyuba / shutterstock

In addition to the romantic, medieval ambience, Durbuy scores with culinary specialties. These include, for example, the crayfish, to which a separate festival is dedicated in summer. It is worth checking the calendar before visiting the city. In September, the Beer, Bread and Cheese Festival focuses on local producers. In addition to numerous stalls with local specialties, the festival includes music and other program items. A classical music festival takes place regularly in October and a Christmas market in winter.

If you want to try the specialties of the city, the Marckloff brasserie and the Saint-Amour manufactory are the right place for you. In the manufactory, jams, syrups and jellies are made from local fruits. In the brasserie there is a micro-brewery for the Marckloff beer produced here. In addition to insights into production, both companies offer the opportunity to taste and buy the products.

For more exercise and activity, head to the nearby Adventure Valley adventure park. The adventure park benefits from the surrounding nature and offers tours by kayak and mountain bike. A high ropes course and discovery tours are among the activities available there. Away from the adventure park, kayaks can also be rented in Durbuy to explore the Ourthe. The region is ideal for extensive hiking and cycling tours.

Megaliths and labyrinths as excursion destinations near Durbuy

Only a few minutes’ drive away, the surroundings of Durbuy offer romantic nature with numerous hiking trails and man-made excursion destinations worth seeing. The labyrinth in Barvaux is not only entertaining for families with children. The labyrinth of plants is set up in such a way that you can rest in between. In addition to the large labyrinth, there are other smaller facilities and activities such as a barefoot path.

The village of Wéris and its surroundings impress with megaliths and megalithic tombs. Wéris is best known for its well-preserved dolmens and menhirs, which are considered cultural heritage. If you are interested in these Stone Age stone settings, you can find more information in the Musée des Mégalithes located there. The village centre with its typical Walloon architecture is also worth a walk.

For those interested in culinary delights, the trip to the Chèvrerie d’Ozo goat farm is worthwhile. Here you can discover environmentally conscious and authentic Belgian cheese and its producers. In addition to the farm’s own cheese sale, the farm can be explored with the goats. In addition, guided tours of the dairy are offered.

If you don’t just have a weekend for Durbuy, you will find numerous other historical destinations of the Ardennes and geological attractions such as caves and rock formations in the area. The more than ten villages around Durbuy offer deceleration and typical Walloon architecture.

TOP 5 outdoor activities in Munich

Germany

PatrickJullien

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18. June 2021

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The Bavarian capital of Munich offers many opportunities for outdoor activities. It has numerous parks and leisure facilities that invite you to enjoy activities with family or friends. If you like to relax after work, you can also do so alone with your favorite sport.

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Interactive map with the best outdoor activities

There really is something for everyone in Munich when it comes to outdoor activities. Those who are looking for a challenge and like to be active in sports will get their money’s worth, as will all those who prefer to take it easy.

The interactive map of Planet Sports shows the various possibilities in Munich and the surrounding area. It is designed in such a way that the various outdoor hotspots can be reached by Munich S-Bahn or U-Bahn. A detailed description of each hotspot is available.

These are the top 5 possibilities:

Surfing on the Eisbach wave

Eisbachwelle Munich — Surfing on the Eisbach wave, Image: RudiErnst / shutterstock

If you would like to surf, you can do so at the Eisbach wave on Prinzregentenstraße. It can be reached by the Lehel subway or the Prinzregentenplatz subway. There are no opening hours and admission, because the Eisbachwelle is accessible to everyone. The Eisbach wave is considered the most constant and best river wave in the world and is about half a meter high. It is not suitable for beginners. Only experienced surfers and professionals should surf on the Eisbach wave, as there is a greater danger for beginners. International surfing greats also appreciate the Eisbach wave for their activities.

Isar Trail – a must for mountain bikers

Mountain bikers will be thrilled by the Isar Trail. It can be reached by subway Thalkirchen. It starts at Schlichtweg and is eight kilometres long. Again, the activity is free and possible at any time, as there are no opening hours. From the city, the Isar trails always lead south along the Isar. The cycle path leads through a beautiful landscape. The good thing is that it’s not just reserved for experienced mountain bikers. Even those who rarely ride a mountain bike or dare to ride a bike for the first time will not be disappointed. It takes beginners about 50 minutes to complete the route.

Flying Fox in the Olympic Stadium

If you want to experience Munich from above, you shouldn’t miss Flying Fox in the Olympic Stadium . You climb to the roof of the Olympic Stadium at a height of 35 meters accompanied by a tour guide. The Olympic Stadium at Spiridon-Louis-Ring 21 can be easily reached by the Olympiastadion subway. It is open from Monday to Sunday from 12:00 to 18:00. A tour is subject to a fee. The fast-paced rush on Europe’s longest Flying Fox lasts 90 to 120 minutes. A flight offers a breathtaking view over Munich.

Skatepark Theresienwiese

A must for all those who like to show off their skills on a skateboard is the Theresienwiese skate park (T-Wiese). It is located on the Bavaria Ring, near Hans-Fischer-Straße, and can be reached by the Poccistraße subway. It is open indefinitely, except during the Oktoberfest. The skate park has three large long boxes, several banks, hip, several manual pads and spacious tarmac areas. It is partially illuminated and is also suitable for inline skates.

Robertobeach beach complex

Munich’s largest indoor and outdoor beach facility is Robertobeach, Am Eventpark, in Aschheim. The facility can be reached by S-Bahn Feldkirchen. In summer, it is open from Monday to Friday from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. and on Saturday, Sunday and public holidays from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 a.m. In winter, the facility is open from Monday to Friday from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 a.m. and on Saturdays, Sundays and public holidays from 10:00 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. You are guaranteed to get into a holiday mood here.

The picturesque islands of Murano and Burano in the Venetian lagoon

Italy

PatrickJullien

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16. June 2021

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The picturesque islands of Murano and Burano in the Venetian lagoon

If you visit Venice during your holidays, you should not limit yourself to the old town. After an idyllic boat trip, which lasts only three quarters of an hour, you can reach the island of Burano from Venice, densely lined with colourfully painted houses. A walk through the narrow streets of the island makes your eyes glaze over with flashing colors. Halfway between Venice and Burano lies the glassblowing island of Murano, which is best visited at the same time if you are already on the road. In their structure, both islands resemble the Venetian main island. Burano and Murano are each car-free and densely built up with narrowly towering houses. Instead of roads, there are canals here and there, through which the water bus called vaporetto runs. As a pedestrian, the best way to admire the canals and lagoons is from one of the many bridges that span the water arms and lead to the many sights of the two islands.

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On the colourful island of Burano

Burano near Venice — View of Venice, Image: Aliaksandr Antanovich / shutterstock

Burano is now one of the most densely populated islands in the Venetian Lagoon. The island is made up of four individual islands, which are connected by bridges. Walking through Burano’s alleys, you will quickly be enchanted by the charm of the brightly painted houses. Burano has been a fishing island since time immemorial. Since it was often difficult for the fishermen to find the right mooring in front of their own fisherman’s cottage through the thick wafts of fog in the foggy lagoon after fishing, they painted their houses in screaming bright colours in different ways. In the past, this served exclusively for better orientation. Today, this preserved peculiarity attracts numerous tourists. Burano’s colorful houses are a popular photo motif for all visitors. The wives of the fishermen, by the way, contributed something to the meagre fishermen’s wages of their husbands by making lace. In the Museo del Merletto, the lace museum, works of art made of high-quality lace are exhibited. The building that houses the museum, the Palazzo del Podestá, dates back to the 13th century and is a work of art in itself. Scarves, tablecloths or garments made of Burano lace can be purchased in many small shops around the museum.

Between the baroque church and the leaning tower of Burano

The Chiesa di San Martino Burano church is definitely worth seeing. Its bell tower catches the eye when you approach Burano by vaporetto. Like its big brother in Pisa , this tower remains in a clear tilt. The church also contains an impressive crucifixion scene by Giovanni Battista Tiepolo. He was one of the most important Venetian Baroque painters. After the sightseeing program, the restaurants and bars on Piazza Galuppi beckon. Connoisseurs say that nowhere else in Italy can you get such excellent risotto as here. Burano is even internationally known for its Fritto Misto, fried seafood that comes straight from the fishing boat to the plate.

Part of Venice since 1924: the glassblowing island of Murano

Glass Art Murano — Murano is known as a glassblowing island, Image: Neirfy / shutterstock

The island of Murano, which is about one square kilometre in size, was independent for a long time, which is why Murano was able to develop its very own tradition and culture. It was not until 1924 that the island was added to the Venetian city area. Glass has been produced on Murano since the tenth century. Even today, one glassblowing workshop follows the next here. The 5,000 inhabitants of Murano still master this difficult craft. Hand-blown glass from Murano has a more than respectable reputation worldwide, and is now exported in all directions. Visitors to the island can look over the shoulders of the craftsmen as they practice their profession in many workshops. In addition to small craft businesses, there are also some glass factories that can be visited. In the Museo del Vetro, the history of glassblowing is told. The most valuable exhibit is the Coppa Barovier, a blue glass chalice from the 15th century. In the local glassblowing workshops you can buy pretty souvenirs. From glass beads to jewellery and decorative objects such as vases, everything is here.

Churches and sculptures

With the church Chiesa dei Santi Maria e Donato, Murano is one of the oldest churches in the entire region. Its original church was built as early as the seventh century. In the following centuries, the church building was destroyed and rebuilt several times. The church has a free-standing bell tower and a rumored dragon skeleton. The floor of the church consists of colorful mosaic stones. Other churches on the island that are well worth seeing are the churches of San Pietro Martire and Santa Maria degli Angeli. With the Cometa di Vetro, a modern glass sculpture was erected in front of the church of San Pietro Martire. Only ruins can be seen of one of the most beautiful churches on the island, the Santa Chiara Murano, but they are more than worth a look. The Palazzo da Mula from the 15th century inspires especially those interested in architecture. The building is made of red bricks and has late Gothic features. Rich noblemen from Venice used to reside here, who used the palazzo as a summer residence. If you stroll through the alleys of Murano on a city walk, you will also be able to soak up a lot of the Mediterranean flair and the slightly morbid atmosphere of the island.