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Golf trips: the sporty holiday for players of all levels

PatrickJullien
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Golf trips: the sporty holiday for players of all levels

Escaping everyday life, that’s what each of us wishes for sometimes. The options are already diverse and in many cases cost-effective. If you find the local golf course too monotonous on your own holiday, you can try your luck on golf trips. This varied experience is suitable for players of all levels, which guarantees fun and a certain learning effect. This makes golf trips the perfect change for your holiday without having to do without the beach and a hotel. For this reason, we have summarized the advantages and reasons for a golf trip for you.

Many destinations and facilities, thanks to the wide choice when booking

The idea of golf trips is not new, which is why many offers can already be found in travel agencies and on the Internet. Nevertheless, it is worthwhile to compare the advantages of these trips with classic holidays. In this way, it quickly becomes clear what makes golf trips so extraordinary and attractive for golfers. If you are an athlete who feels like playing golf on your holiday, you are faced with a big task in simple hotel complexes. It is not uncommon for the nearest courses to be far away and there is no concrete program for golfers and athletes of other sports.

It’s different with golf trips, where special offers are already waiting for you when booking. Starting with the green fee already paid, to the game time reservation: staying in a sports-friendly hotel has various advantages. Travel providers with experience in the industry are clearly ahead here: through special prices and offers, golf trips to Mallorca, Portugal or Turkey are offered at low prices. Planning a vacation around the sport has thus become the standard for many to be able to play the golf courses of this world.

Licence to play on holiday: this is how the programme works

Golf trip
Relax and work on your handicap while golfing on holiday, Image: Supermop / shutterstock

Since golf trips are not only reserved for professionals, more and more beginners and casual players are also enthusiastic about this type of holiday. Hotel complexes with a direct focus on golf trips are usually located close to the course and have their own trainers who can accompany you to the course license and beyond. Especially for partners and children, this is an ideal opportunity to develop their own skills in a relaxed and at the same time intensive training environment or to start with the sport. The golf license can be achieved in as little as seven days of vacation, which various hotels advertise on golf trips. Collaborations with surrounding golf courses have been established so that the green fee is not incurred for every training session.

Depending on the destination, players can obtain the course license throughout the year, which is thanks to particularly warm holiday regions. The favorable location of the golf courses accompanies you to the new level even out of season, with which you can start at the beginning of the season after your vacation. This means that golf trips differ only partially from conventional holidays: the trip to the warmth, however, has a sporting background. If you want to go to the golf resorts of this world alone or with your family, you should keep an eye on the offers of tour operators.

The perfect combination – with relaxation and sport

A golf trip is not always associated with effort. While many hours a day can be invested in sports, the relaxed time-outs are a welcome change. Whether on the beach or pool, swimming and relaxing is not neglected on almost any golf holiday. This makes destinations with both aspects ideal for families in which at least one member wants to focus on the sport. The enthusiasm can quickly rub off, which also offers children the opportunity to immerse themselves in the sport with a coach.

If you want a little more of the beach in good weather, golf trips are the optimally flexible choice. Here, playtime reservations for the following day allow the journey to and from the golf course to be comfortably accommodated in the quiet everyday holiday routine. If, on the other hand, you want to have more green than sand under your feet, you will not be disappointed either: this is due to the almost continuous offer of training sessions, games and the hotel’s own tournaments. At every level of player, first-class experience can be gained on sometimes large golf courses.

Our conclusion: Golf trips for more variety in everyday holiday life

The advantages of golf trips are varied and at the same time individual for each of us. Nevertheless, playing on foreign courses is an experience that should not be missed, especially abroad. While Germany, Austria and Switzerland can also be destinations for golf trips, it is above all the warm regions in the cold season that are a charming option. Booked on site or in advance, a golf trip can be the long-awaited change for sports-loving holidaymakers. If you are not yet sure, you can find out more about the topic from the usual tour operators.

Macau is a city of casino games

PatrickJullien
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Macau is a city of casino games

Politically, Macau, formerly a Portuguese colony, is a special administrative region of the People’s Republic of China and there is indeed a lot special in the urban area. The city is known for its lush casino worlds, which are oriented towards Las Vegas and can now hold a candle to the desert city in the USA. UNESCO has already listed Macau as a World Heritage Site. A Macau vacation is worthwhile for players who do not want to miss out on their casino experience. There is a lot to see and experience on a Macau vacation. The various Macau sights offer a successful contrast to the casino world and an all-round successful holiday can be planned.

The most beautiful casinos in Macau

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

There are quite a few extraordinarily beautiful and interesting casinos in Macau. The design in particular is often decisive for a casino to be able to occupy a very special position. Here, tourists can be surprised at the architectural features that await them in Macau. If you want to visit Macau and get in the mood a little, a visit to the online casino is ideal to take advantage of attractive bonuses and promotions. You can still play free slot games in Macau as a demo version in an online casino.

The Venetian in Macau

True to its name, the hotel creates an atmosphere that is not only reminiscent of St. Mark’s Square in Venice , but almost replicates it. Nobody in Macau would really expect that and it seems impressive right from the start. The casino is divided into four themed areas: Golden Fish, Imperial House, Red Dragon, and Phoenix. It possesses 6000 slot machines and 800 gaming tables, making it an enormous place to gamble. It is certainly one of the most beautiful Macau casinos and has a classy atmosphere that is reminiscent of classic casino movies. The dress code is correspondingly less casual.

Sands Macau

Sands Macau is one of Macau’s state-of-the-art casinos, which already promote a shiny, futuristic look with their architecture. The casino is linked to its big brother, the Sands in Las Vegas, and has a modern approach to casino life on the inside. In addition to recreational players, Sands Macau has created dedicated areas for VIP and premium players, so everyone can focus on their goal and do so in a very private atmosphere. The dress code is upscale and the ambience is very classy, which creates a special feeling that will seize every Macau vacationer.

Wynn Macau

At Wynn Resort, there is luxury for guests in every area. The hotel and casino have 7000 employees who dedicately take care of the guests and their holidays. The casino is laid out over two floors and has 1190 slot machines and 390 gaming tables. A dedicated poker room lets poker players be among themselves if they wish. The dress code is adapted to the luxury hotel and is described as smart business, so an evening at the Wynn Casino is a special experience that no one will soon forget. Within the framework of Macau China Casinos, the Wynn Macau is one of two foreign companies that have been allowed to obtain a license.

Historic buildings worth visiting in Macau

The visitor can find many historic buildings in Macau among the sights of Macau , which still point back to the old Portuguese colonial period. During this period, grandiose buildings were created, which today give the Far East Asian city a southern European touch. The most important buildings are:

• Camões Grotto
• Dom Pedro V Theatre
• Fortaleza do Monte
• Guia Fortress
• The Holy House of Grace
• The Leal Senado building
• The Lou Kau Mansion
• Macau Central Post Office

The ruins of St. Paul

Actually, between 1602 and 1640, a church was built in Macau by Jesuit priests, which was dedicated to the holy apostle Paul. The church has not stood the test of time, but the front of the church still stands as a ruin and has been delighting tourists on their Macau China vacation for decades. The ruins are accessible today and are a unique sign of time from the immediate history of the city, in which the spirit of the past is awakened.

The Luís de Camões Garden

The garden is centrally located in the city and is actually the largest park Macau owns. Here the friendship between Portugal and Macau is celebrated and so the tourist opens up an incredibly beautiful piece of nature in the middle of the city. It is named after Portugal’s greatest poet, Luís de Camões, who once had to go into exile in Macau for two years and thus established a connection to this part of the world.

The Holy House of Grace

As a Christian element, the Holy House of Grace was built by the Portuguese and administered by the church as a hospital and nursing home. Over time, it has had many functions and has also played an important role in the city’s history. In part, the house functioned as a bank or casino with a very popular lottery. In any case, the connection to today’s gambling center is striking.

Which museums must be visited in Macau?

A holiday in Macau would not be complete without visiting one or the other of the numerous and very well-positioned museums. Macau is known for its large number of museums, which can contribute to all kinds of areas of life and history of the region. Here you can choose at will which museums best fit into the area of interest of each individual.

The Grand Prix Museum

The Venetian Macau
The Venetian in Macau, Image: jeafish Ping / shutterstock
Grand Prix Museum in Macau
Grand Prix Museum in Macau, Image: KeongDaGreat / shutterstock

The Grand Prix Museum in Macau is a reminder of the race days in Macau, when the Formula 1 cars raced over the tar here. An original Ayrton Senna race car is on display and simulators make the museum a racing experience where every visitor can feel like a driver in the cockpit. A must for Formula 1 fans, an entertaining experience for ordinary tourists.

The Museum of Gifts

When Macau became a special administrative region, there was a ceremony in the city where Chinese regions wished the city luck and presented gifts representing each province. The museum was built on the site of the ceremony, which now deals with the culture and history of Macau within the framework of this special status. The gifts and other contemporary items are exhibited for visitors. Admission to the museum is free.

The Macau Museum of Art

This museum is all about art in every form. The museum, which was only established in 1999, collects all areas of art from Macau and other regions in order to further promote the artistic life of the city and create awareness of the enjoyment of art. Artists and experts are regularly invited to the museum to create a living museum through lectures and other events.

So much to see in Macau

Luís de Camões Garden
Luís de Camões Garden, Image: unununius photo / shutterstock

The variety of sights in Macau is enormous and it is usually not enough for a few days to see everything that is worth seeing. It is highly advisable to make a plan before the trip of which sights to see and what the greatest interest or topic of the trip should be, so that an appropriate route can be planned. Especially the numerous casinos such as The Venetian or the MGM Macau are a tourist magnet, but the historic buildings or the parks of the city are also inspiring. Public squares such as Lotus Square are a central meeting point and starting point for tourist trails in the city. Religious places, theme parks and other points of the city complete the experience.

Result

In the end, it all depends on what the tourist wants on his trip, because Macau can offer almost everything. This is where an individual route can help, which prevents it from becoming a one-sided experience with only museums or only casinos. Variety will lead to a dream holiday in Macau that will make every visitor return to the city.

In search of true wealth

PatrickJullien
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In search of true wealth

In the summer of 2021, a family of four from North Rhine-Westphalia set off in a motorhome to experience an adventure of unexpected proportions. Coming from a fast-paced and often cold interpersonal world, they went in search of a place of warmth and contentment. The adventurers found what they were looking for in a region from which one would least have expected these qualities.

Eleven years ago, “Der Spiegel” reported on a blatant connection between serious mental health problems and prosperity. For example, in countries with a high average income, there is a significantly higher percentage of people with depression than in developing countries. Among those affected is Deborah Furin from the Oberbergischer Kreis – wife and mother of two children. She also learned about this scientific finding and, together with her husband Max, her 5-year-old son Noah and her 11-year-old daughter Isabella, set out to immerse herself in a socially incomparable world. Together with their two dogs, the Furins went on a two-month adventure in a 6-meter-long camper, which they named “Constantin”, to the second poorest country in Europe – Albania.

The adventure begins

The approximately 2,000-kilometer journey alone took two weeks, as the cosmopolitan family wanted to gather impressions on the way. On the “Adriatic Magistrale” – one of the most beautiful but also most dangerous coastal roads in the world – the Furins went through the countries of Croatia, Bosnia-Herzegovina and Montenegro to Albania. The parents Deborah and Max deliberately did not want to spend a classic holiday. It was supposed to be a journey of discovery through the middle of the everyday life of another society.

Priceless experiences

The family spent the following months in the form of wild camping. Completely self-sufficient, people lived in a motorhome in various places in the country. The extraordinarily poor infrastructure was particularly striking. In general, roads and buildings are in a disastrous condition, water from the tap is only available in a certain time window on a day. In order to make their own existence possible for the next week, the residents usually have to do hard physical work every day. One would think that depression, dissatisfaction and omnipresent egoism would be the order of the day without exception due to the situation. The opposite is the case and the Furin family experienced this circumstance firsthand. “I have never experienced such a degree of warmth, empathy and generosity,” said astrophotographer Deborah in an interview.

“We wanted to get a haircut in Albania and went to a hairdresser. Since we were making a documentary about our trip and wanted to include this scene as well, we asked if it would be possible to film. The hairdresser felt this as a great appreciation and subsequently did not charge a single cent for his service.” Such situations were not an exception, but everyday life. However, the North Rhine-Westphalians define another encounter as the highlight of the trip: “One afternoon we were picking a handful of figs when a man beckoned us to him. At the beginning, there was a great fear that we would have made ourselves unpopular with him with this action, but that was not the case. We got into conversation with the man and after a while he invited him to his family’s home for a coffee. After some time, we were actually offered if we ‘strangers’ would like to stay with them. Since this is the greatest possible gesture of appreciation you can get, we agreed. Theoretically, we could have been robbed. After all, our equipment could be made into good money by local standards. But this danger and the thought of it were never in the room. It was simply an act of pure humanity.”

Deborah and Max Furin are overwhelmed by the inhabitants of Albania: “Our expectations were regularly exceeded. For us, the tourist rejection of this country is absolutely incomprehensible. Albania should not be seen and traveled with the eyes, but with the heart.” To this day, the young family draws on these experiences and especially for the children, the two months were of enormous importance in terms of personality development.

Own documentary film about the trip

The Furins captured their extraordinary adventure on cameras in order to then produce a documentary film. This will be released on February 27 with the name “Lumturi – In Search of True Wealth” in feature length on her YouTube channel “Constantins Diary”. Deborah thus fulfills a lifelong dream. She and her husband deliberately chose a free platform for the release of the film, as they want to make their documentary accessible to everyone – regardless of the level of income. Nevertheless, the Furin family would be very happy about a voluntary donation due to the large financial outlay. In any case, the documentary film is worth watching. After all, it offers an excellent opportunity to significantly broaden one’s own horizons.

Author: Luca Kielhauser

 

Phu Quoc: Vietnamese “pearl” in the gold of Thailand

PatrickJullien
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Phu Quoc: Vietnamese “pearl” in the gold of Thailand

Breathtaking nature, beautiful beaches and paradisiacal sights: this is Phu Quoc. Vietnam’s largest island in the middle of the Gulf of Thailand is still a real insider tip for many holidaymakers from all over the world. More and more tourists are now discovering the advantages of this paradisiacal island for themselves, also due to the very good infrastructure. Phu Quoc has an international airport that is served daily by planes from all over the world. There are also several ports on the island. These can be approached by cruise ships as well as private boats.

Dreamlike beaches – a feeling like paradise

A large part of the tourists are drawn to the dream beaches of the island. With their white sand, crystal clear water and shady palm trees, they are among the most beautiful beaches in Southeast Asia. Here you feel like you are in the middle of paradise. The absolute number one of the beaches on the popular island is Bai Truong at the gates of the island’s capital Duong Dong. The beach, also known as “Long Beach” by Western tourists, stretches over 20 kilometers along the west coast. Beach holidaymakers get their money’s worth here, as do water sports enthusiasts. Especially on the northern section of the beach, thousands of tourists from all over the world cavort, especially in the European winter months.

In recent years, numerous large beach resorts with a comprehensive range of water sports have also been built here. Bai Truong is also famous outside the Vietnamese borders for its clean water, because no motorboats are allowed here. In the meantime, the southern section of the beach is also being developed more and more and discovered by tourists. If you like it quieter on the beach, the much smaller Bai Ong Lang in the south of the island’s capital is the right place for you. Due to the small sheltered bays, the beach is especially popular with couples. Sao Beach is also one of the most popular beaches on the island, with its white sand and gently sloping water into the sea. In addition to the numerous water sports such as jet skiing or parasailing, there are also numerous restaurants and hotels around the beach.

Duong Dong: The lively island capital

Market in Duong Dong, Phu Quoc
Market in Duong Dong, Image: Lars Ove Jonsson / shutterstock

The capital of Phu Quoc is the city of Duong Dong. The city of 60,000 inhabitants is known and loved by tourists and locals as extremely lively. In the traditional Vietnamese small town, there is always a lively market hustle and bustle and Asian flair. Directly on the beach is the Dinh Cau temple, which you should definitely see when visiting the city. It is not only one of the most popular photo motifs on the island, but is also extremely worth seeing and experiencing. From the terrace of the temple you have a great overview of the beach and the fishing port. The port of Duong Dong is also a popular starting point for small and large island tours. Near the port is also the Duong Dong Market. The rest of the island also has some spectacular sights to offer. In the south of the island, for example, you should not miss the Hon Thom cable car. With a length of almost eight kilometres, it is one of the longest cable cars in the world and extends to the offshore island of Hon Thom. On the island there is a large water park, a beautiful sandy beach and several cozy cafes and restaurants.

Species-rich flora and fauna

The island of Phu Quoc is also characterized by its species-rich flora and fauna. Nature lovers get their money’s worth, especially in the north of the island in the Phu Quoc Nature Park. The national park, which covers more than 30,000 hectares, is one of the most beautiful national parks in Asia. Almost 500 different plant species can be found here. Off the coast there are also beautiful coral reefs and a wide variety of colors. The wildlife on the island also has almost 50 different and above all rare mammal species – including small-clawed otters, dwarf gloris and silver langurs. The coasts in the south are also home to more than 120 different species of fish. The island can be explored on your own or as part of a guided tour by a trained guide. Among other things, the island still has some mountains, grottos and caves.

Best time to visit Phu Qouc: November to March

The weather on the popular Vietnamese island is determined by the tropical climate with hot temperatures and high humidity. From November to March, temperatures are around 30 degrees Celsius. Precipitation is rarely to be expected during this time. May to October is the rainy season, during which continuous and extensive rainfall is to be expected

From Hamburg to the north with the camper

PatrickJullien
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From Hamburg to the north with the camper

North of Hamburg are the most beautiful camper destinations in Europe. Schleswig-Holstein attracts with beautiful beaches and picturesque fishing villages. Behind it stretches the Kingdom of Denmark with the offshore islands and over 7000 kilometers of coastline. When you cross the Øresund, you are immersed in the world of Pippi Longstocking, a colourful wooden house backdrop and the fairytale archipelago. North of it, Scandinavia shows its most beautiful side with legendary fjords and untouched nature. What are you waiting for: Rent a campervan in Hamburg and go on holiday.

Discover the land between the seas with a camper

Lighthouse Sylt, Schleswig Holstein
Sunrise on Sylt, Image: Jenny Sturm / shutterstock

Schleswig-Holstein is one of the most popular German travel destinations. Some are drawn to the quiet beaches of the Baltic Sea and others prefer the harsh climate of the North Sea. The range of campsites along the coast is almost inexhaustible. Here you will find campsites with direct access to the beach or in the middle of the fertile marshland. Many islands are also easily accessible by camper. At the very top Sylt with a large selection of idyllically located campsites.

The Rantum campsite convinces with its unique location directly on the basin of the same name and the site in Wennigstedt extends directly behind the dunes. In the south of Schleswig-Holstein there are flourishing cities and small fishing villages. The land of cabbage is crossed by the Kiel Canal and from Eiderstedt you can experience North Sea holidays in a class of their own. The peninsula is an ideal starting point for mudflat hikes and the sulphur springs of St. Peter-Ording are a treat for body and mind. Theodor Storm was already inspired by this unique landscape. Real connoisseurs go to Schleswig-Holstein in spring or autumn. At Easter, everything is in full bloom and in autumn the North Sea shows its rough side. After a stimulating walk on the beach, you can retreat to the camper and enjoy fantastic sunsets.

The small kingdom in a big way

Sttrand Havneby, Römö
On the beach of Havneby on Rømø, Image: 5149mich / shutterstock

Denmark is a paradise for campers. On every corner you will find inviting places that could not be more different. If you are looking for peace and quiet, you can retreat to the family-run campsites away from the tourist areas. The campsites on the west coast are holiday centres and offer everything that belongs to an exciting holiday, from bathing areas to wellness and daily entertainment. Just across the border up to Skagen stretches Jutland, the fixed part of Denmark. The roaring North Sea coast is known for its miles of sandy beaches. The Baltic Sea coast, on the other hand, is quieter and the beaches are sloping.

The island of Rømø offers campsites in the immediate vicinity of the beach and there is a lot of activity here in summer. Fanø and Møn, on the other hand, are more of a destination for individualists. The further north you drive, the more paradisiacal the landscape becomes. The Limfjord scores with secluded beaches and picturesque harbours. Here you can buy the crabs directly from the cutter or walk through fairytale villages. The coast of Thy attracts surfers from all over the world and in Skagen you will find the most beautiful dune landscape in Europe. We continue over the Little Belt to Funen. In Odense, visitors can walk in the footsteps of the fairy tale writer Hans Christian Andersen or go whale watching on a safari. Below the Great Belt, campers are drawn to the paradisiacal islands of Langeland, Lolland and Falster. Copenhagen’s capital is known for its cosiness.

Welcome to the home of Pippi Longstocking

After driving across the Øresund, you will reach Malmö. Here, too, the maritime flair dominates. If you continue the journey, you will be immersed in the locations that inspired Henning Mankell. Mystical villages, remote coastal strips and stony archipelagos show Commissioner Walander’s backdrop. But Sweden is opposite. In some places, the colorful wooden houses seem like a land of milk and honey and one understands why Pippi Longstocking could only have been created in Sweden. It is quiet everywhere and time sometimes seems to have stopped. Even the big cities of Stockholm and Gothenburg lack any form of hustle and bustle. Holidays in Sweden mean deceleration. If you arrive here with your camper, you are spoilt for choice. There are campsites right on the beach or along the archipelago. If you want, you can camp directly at the waterfall or in the remote hinterland. In summer, festivals are celebrated everywhere and people indulge in the bright time. But the dark winters also have flair. In Swedish Lapland , you can camp in dreamlike snow-covered landscapes and watch the fairytale play of colors of the Northern Lights.

Mysterious fjords and cute trolls

Norway is unique and full of impressions. Anyone who has ever traveled the country with a camper will never get away from it. It is the interplay of nature, the fascinating landscape, the warmth of the people and the fabulous stories that make Norway seem so different. One moment you are standing on a metre-high ledge and enjoying the fantastic view of the turquoise fjord and the next moment the cold and rough wind of the Norwegian Sea bites and ice masses of the glaciers threaten to fall down on you. Even the cities are unnatural in Norway. Oslo is far too cozy for a capital. Bergen is packed with postcard motifs. Here you can also buy Christmas decorations in winter, enjoy a panorama of superlatives with the Fløibanen or simply indulge in the maritime hustle and bustle. The fjords are indescribable and constantly changing their appearance. Bizarrely, the rocks rise up into the sky, the masses of water plunge along the stony surfaces and the boats on the water look like a miniature landscape. Many holidaymakers drive by camper to the North Cape and meet moose and learn about the traditions of the Sami.

Port Louis – Capital of Mauritius

PatrickJullien
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Port Louis – Capital of Mauritius

Summer, sun, beach and sea, in Mauritius you get it all with tropical temperatures and a wonderfully relaxed atmosphere. But when it comes to Mauritius, it doesn’t necessarily have to be a beach holiday, because the island state in the southwest of the Indian Ocean has a lot more to offer. The capital, Port Louis, has some must-see sights. With about 175,000 inhabitants, the city is the center of the state par excellence. So we will be happy to tell you which spots you have to travel to and what you have to pay attention to.

Get to know the origins

Port Louis, Mauritius
View of Port Louis, Image: Ryan Chan Yam / shutterstock

The town of Aapravasi Ghat is of central importance for Mauritius, as many of the inhabitants are of Indian origin. It is assumed that the first settlers set foot on the island at this place and thus laid a foundation stone. Economic sales in Mauritius started with the cultivation of sugar cane. From 1834 onwards, Aapravasi Ghat was considered the central levy location for this economically important business. Nowadays, this location is even a UNESCO World Heritage Site. There you will learn many things about colonialism, because at that time many immigrants from the British colonies came to Mauritius. An interesting piece of history that you should not miss!

Colorful, colorful, Mauritius

When you think of Mauritius, you immediately think of an image that counts as one of the figureheads of Mauritius par excellence, namely the colorful umbrellas above the market. These can be found on the Caudant Waterfront, at the harbor district. There you stroll along a beautiful promenade, where many small shops, restaurants, cafés and more have settled. From there you can watch the many ships, including impressive yachts, that enter or leave the harbour every day. An absolute must is the “Umbrella Square”. There, the many colorful umbrellas float above your heads. It is one of the most popular photo motifs ever and looks simply stunning. Be sure to see this spectacle!

Experience past times up close

An equally important part of Mauritius’ culture are the many museums that explore the island’s rich history. Among other things, you will discover a department in the Natural History Museum that teaches the animal and plant past and present. Depictions of long-extinct animal species can be explored here. Why did they become extinct, who was responsible? How long did you live here and which relatives still live on the island today? What about the flora and fauna? All these questions and many more will be answered at the Natural History Museum.

No less interesting and just as famous is the Blue Penny Museum. In 1847, the so-called “Blue Penny” was printed. This is a stamp. This was made for the occasion of a masked ball in the building of the then government and is exhibited there. You are probably wondering what is so special about this stamp. Well, quite simply: only a limited number of 500 pieces of this brand were produced. Of these 500 brands, only five unique pieces exist worldwide today. Nowadays, a stamp is worth at least 650,000 euros. A stamp worth well over €650,000? You have to see something like this!

Racing as you only know it from movies

No other sport has such a cult status on the island of Mauritius as horse racing. You can experience this up close at the Champ de Mars racecourse. The inhabitants love their sport and actively cheer along. Every weekend, more than 30,000 people travel to the racecourse and bet on the racehorses. For some people, it’s just a place where they meet their friends again and again and spend some time together. Still others watch the spectacle to soak up the unique atmosphere. Don’t miss this spectacle and visit the Champ de Mars racecourse!

Lively, bustling and multi-layered

Le Caudan Waterfront, Port Louis
Le Caudan Waterfront, Image: wsf-s / shutterstock

The Central Market in Port Louis offers everything that makes Mauritius special: colourful variety, exotic fruits, spices and vegetables and genuine craftsmanship, which is still passionately practiced in the many small shops. These small handicraft masterpieces are ideal to take home as a small souvenir or souvenir. It may overwhelm you at first, but feel free to go for it. The wild confusion, the many bright colors and the masses of people running around are like from another world. It’s just fascinating and a bit scary at the same time. The Central Market is a place you can’t forget on your trip to Mauritius!

Result

Port Louis in Mauritius has so much to offer that you won’t be able to marvel at it all in a single day. Take the time to enjoy everything in peace. Learn from the exciting history, immerse yourself in the wild crowd of the market and let the impressive culture work its magic on you. There are so many things to discover, so many supposedly small places to marvel at. You should experience Port Louis consciously, get fully involved and you will have an unforgettable holiday.

Montana: An exciting trip to the U.S. state of mountains and the Indians

PatrickJullien
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Montana: An exciting trip to the U.S. state of mountains and the Indians

The US state of Montana is a prime destination for those who love nature and space. Montana is located in the far north of the USA and borders Canada there. The name of the state is derived from the Latin word montanus, which translates into the English language means mountain. Anyone who knows this will not be surprised that the fourth largest of the American states is crisscrossed by sweeping mountain ranges. Montana’s most popular tourist destination is, not surprisingly, Glacier National Park, which borders Canada .

There is a sprawling nature reserve located in the middle of the Rocky Mountains. There alone, nature lovers can easily spend a holiday of several weeks that will not be boring. But Montana has even more to offer. In the south of the extremely sparsely populated US state with just over one million inhabitants, there is another of the most famous national parks in the USA: Yellowstone National Park. Yellowstone National Park is not only a UNESCO World Heritage Site, but also boasts an exciting population of wildlife such as grizzly bears and bison. Montana’s highlights are complemented by the Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument, one of the most historic places in the entire USA. Here, visitors can learn a lot about the Native Americans, the Indians.

Experience the frosty magic of Glacier National Park

Monatana - Glacier National Park
Glacier National Park, Image: Bill45 / shutterstock

Glacier National Park overwhelms everyone who visits it. On an area of around 4,047 square kilometers, there are a total of 175 mountain peaks and 25 glaciers. In addition, there are no less than 762 lakes. The national park can be visited all year round, but in winter the roads that crisscross Glacier National Park can be snowy or frozen, which requires drivers to have good driving skills to be able to move around safely.

In winter, you are rewarded for this by fairytale snow and ice landscapes, where you can go snowshoeing, for example. Cross-country ski trails are also groomed then. The very daring can try their hand at ice climbing here in the winter months and explore the diverse mountain landscape of the Glacier National Park up close. From June to September, all roads in the park are largely free of snow and therefore easily passable. These are excellent conditions for embarking on one or the other hiking adventure through exciting flora and fauna. On the way you often meet mountain goats or dockhorn sheep.

For example, you can walk around the 16-kilometer-wide Lake McDonald, which is the largest lake in the national park, on the Trail of the Cedars. If you prefer to move on the water, you can cross the lake by boat. No matter what you choose, you always have an excellent view of the mighty glaciers surrounding the lake with all possible options. The Glacier National Park can also be crossed by train. A multi-day train journey not only takes tourists to Canada, but also allows them to visit all the vegetation levels of the Glacier National Park from the train’s panoramic carriages.

Explore forests, wilderness and wildlife in Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park in Montana
A herd of bison moves quickly along the Firehole River, Image: YegoroV / shutterstock

If you want to explore Yellowstone National Park, which stretches over several US states, on Montana territory, choose one of the two park entrances to the north. The small town of Livingston has been the most popular entry point into Yellowstone National Park since the 19th century. On the way to the park, it is worth taking a detour to the Railway Museum of the City of Livingston. Another access point to the park is near the even smaller town of Gardiner, which is crossed by the 1,114-kilometer-long Yellowstone River. From Gardiner, you enter the park through the massive Roosevelt archway. From there, it’s on to the Grizzly and Wolf Discovery Center, where you can get up close and personal with bears and wolves. The Bear Paw Trail invites you to hike through the park’s wooded landscape. Hiking is very popular in Yellowstone National Park anyway. About 2,000 kilometers of designated hiking trails can be hiked in the almost 9,000 square kilometer national park.

Visiting the Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument

In addition to breathtaking scenery, the US state of Montana also has a rich history. This was marked by numerous conflicts between the white settlers from Europe and the North American indigenous population, the Indians. The territory of today’s US state of Montana was once home to 13 different Indian tribes. The most famous Indians among them are the members of the Sioux tribe. Even today, many of the indigenous people live on Indian reservations, of which there are seven in Montana alone.

On June 25, 1876, a battle finally took place at the Little Bighorn between cavalry troops of the white settlers and the representatives of several Indian tribes. The natives were led by the Indian chiefs Sitting Bull and Crazy Horse. The fighting was about the white settlers taking over a mountain range that was considered sacred to the Indian tribes. They hoped for the financially profitable mining of mineral resources there. Since the Indians defended their territory and put up surprisingly strong resistance, many members of both sides had to lose their lives in the battle. On the Little Bighorn Battlefield, a memorial was set up soon after the battle, which now commemorates not only the white victims of the battle, as originally, but also the Indians who died in the battle in a sincere way.

Excursion destinations on Lake Garda

PatrickJullien
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Excursion destinations on Lake Garda

Lake Garda attracts not only with great water, wonderful accommodations and all kinds of possibilities on the lake itself, but also with its perfect starting point for exploration tours. Geographically almost perfectly located, some of the most interesting destinations of northern Italy can be reached in a very short time. This is one reason why so many families, but also couples and singles, decide to spend the most beautiful weeks of the year at the lake. But what are the most interesting excursion destinations and sights that you should have experienced and seen during your stay before heading back home?

The sights in the immediate vicinity of the lake

There is a lot to see – no wonder, Lake Garda is huge and on its various shores some of its own villages and towns have developed. One of the absolute classics, however, is without question the Castello Scaligero in Sirmione. The small town of Sirmiona has existed for centuries and the magnificent castle ruins still speak of this time from the Middle Ages. The relatively well-preserved ruin can be visited and takes visitors for a moment back to times when tourists were still a rarity at the lake. Here you can also visit the thermal springs, which have been promising relaxation since Roman times.

Riva del Garda, Lake Garda
Lake Garda near Riva del Garda, Image: pointbreak / shutterstock

One of the most beautiful places in the immediate vicinity of the lake – and perfect for a trip – is Riva del Garda. The old city has a long history and especially the tower in the center of the city, which rises 35 meters into the air, is a popular destination for tourists. Once at the top, you not only have a great view over the lake, but also of the old town and the historic harbor, which is a last trace of how important the lake has always been for the people in the region.

If you are interested in the sights in the immediate vicinity of Lake Garda, you will eventually come across the Scaliger Castle in Malcesine. One of the oldest castles in Europe, which was probably built in ancient times and is closely linked to the history of the lake. Here you get a real insight into the historical development. The guided tours combine excitement and education for children as well as adults.

Enjoy the nature around Lake Garda with different activities

Of course, there are not only historical buildings and villages to discover. Lake Garda attracts above all with its diverse nature, the nearby Alps and the many opportunities for sporting activities. It is a paradise for hikers, who can explore the different landscapes around the lake as well as the nearby mountains. A variety of guided tours are offered in groups – but of course you can also go on an exploration tour through the area on your own and discover the beauties of nature here without strangers.

The many bicycle routes around the lake are particularly popular with holidaymakers. In most of the holiday resorts you can relax and rent bicycles or you can bring your own bikes and set off on the track. In addition to the destinations already mentioned, a trip to the hinterland is of course also recommended, where various smaller lakes and tributaries can be discovered. One or the other rustic tavern with northern Italian cuisine is also waiting to be visited.

Start city trips from the comfort of Lake Garda

Venice
The Grand Canal with the baroque church of Santa Maria della Salute, Image: Phant / shutterstock

From Lake Garda, you can visit some of the most beautiful cities in northern Italy in no time. Venice , for example, is only about 150 kilometers away and with a bus trip you can be in the city in less than three hours. Of course, there is little to say about the city itself – Venice is world-famous and the city of canals is always worth a visit, especially in the early months of summer and autumn. Strolling through the streets and maybe taking a ride in the canals can be a real highlight for your holiday in Italy .

Not only Venice is worth a visit, but also the city of Verona can be reached quickly from Lake Garda. It is a lesser-known destination and yet knows how to score with its very own charm. The historic buildings and the narrow streets are perfect for looking for small shops and great restaurants where you can eat authentically. In combination with a visit to Mantua, which is also in the immediate vicinity, you also have interesting destinations for city trips outside the metropolis of Venice if you are drawn back to the city from the countryside of Lake Garda.

 

Manacor – a shimmering pearl provides an upswing

PatrickJullien
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Manacor – a shimmering pearl provides an upswing

If you come from the west and reach Manacor, you will see a lot of concrete along the road: large supermarkets, gas stations, pearl and furniture factories. On the other hand, the centre of Mallorca’s third largest city has a lot of charm and is full of art treasures. Visitors only love Manacor at second glance. The modern city coat of arms shows a hand encircling a heart. “Man a cor” translates as “hand on heart”. Historians, however, insist that the city’s name is derived much less poetically from a Berber tribe called “Mancur”.

Surprisingly untouristy for Mallorca

In addition to the city of Manacor in the east of Mallorca, eleven other towns belong to the municipality. The city itself is surprisingly untouristy. Connoisseurs claim that it has been able to retain its Mallorcan idiosyncrasies to this day. Hectic is not one of them. The relaxed way of life of the Manacori is well known, they say, and the afternoon siesta lasts longer than elsewhere on the island, despite the otherwise urban life. It only gets touristy where beaches await holidaymakers: in S’Illot, Porto Christo, Cales de Mallorca or Cala Murada. These are just a few of the eastern districts of Manacor. In Son Macia, beautiful villas and fincas with sea views are hidden in hills and on lush green mountain slopes.

Palma’s little sister is something to be proud of

The city centre of Manacor surprises holidaymakers with ancient defensive towers, magnificent Wilhelminian buildings, spacious pedestrian zones, secluded corners and pretty cafés, bars and bistros with tables and chairs under lemon trees. Here you can enjoy the “Pa amb Oli” – the typical Mallorcan bread with garlic mayonnaise. It is worth taking a walk around the squares of Sa Bassa and Plaça Constitució. Every morning there is a vegetable market on the Constitution Square. On Plaça Ramon Llull there is a weekly market every Monday where you can buy souvenirs. Maybe a salad server made of olive wood?

Manacor is known for its olive species. The atmosphere in the city centre may be a little more rustic than in the island’s capital Palma, but Manacor doesn’t have to hide. If you’re looking for shopping, this is the place for you, because boutiques abound. Above the hustle and bustle in the middle of the old town is the mighty, neo-Gothic church “Parròquia de la Mare de Déu dels Dolors” with beautiful colorful windows, figures of saints and a cloister. Like the other churches of Manacor, it is worth seeing. The city offers a variety of accommodations – from simple guesthouses to a luxury hotel with five stars. If you are looking for something original, you will find luxury apartments housed in old sheepfolds.

From the Stone Age settlement to defensive towers from the Middle Ages

As early as 2000 BC, people settled in Manacor. Remains of Stone Age dwellings are still there. The settlement of S’Hospitalet Vell, which archaeologists estimate to date back to 1500-1800 BC, surprises with the ruins of a square tower, a column and a huge stone slab as a ceiling. Towers also played a role in later centuries. In the Middle Ages, the mansions of noble families had to be protected against attackers: the two-storey Torre dels Enagistes (“Tower of the Jesuits”) from the 14th century, a true fortress, is now home to the “Museo de Historia de Manacor” for archaeology and ethnology. On display are exhibits from the past millennia: ceramics, sculptures, mosaics, graffiti from many eras and the skeleton of a Mallorcan cave goat, which is unfortunately extinct.

Upturn in the second half of the 19th century

Until the 19th century, the inhabitants of Manacor lived from agriculture and animal husbandry, windmills dominated the landscape. But in the second half of the century came the industrial boom. While pottery, wine and liqueur production continued to play a role, furniture production and pearl production now became an economic sector that is still of great importance today. Manacor became a rich city. This is mainly due to an imitation pearl that resembles natural pearls or cultured pearls. It was developed by a German. The son of a factory owner, Eduard Heusch from Aachen (1865-1937), opened Manacor’s first pearl factory in 1902 and called his product “Perlas Majórika”. The special feature: The Mallorca pearl is made of organic material from the sea and has a glass or stone core. Their mother-of-pearl layers are not made of mother-of-pearl, but of fish scales and shell limestone – which are specially processed into a kind of mother-of-pearl porridge. This is applied to the core in many layers and hardened several times. The colored shimmer comes from colored minerals. Jewellery experts appreciate Mallorca pearls because they are more robust than originals, but can hardly be distinguished from the real thing.

The Dragon’s Cave with classical music and illumination

Rafael Nadal Tennis Center in Manacor
Rafael Nadal tennis center in Manacor, Image: neme_jimenez / shutterstock

If you leave Manacor behind and continue east, you will cross a scenic plain. Here, tennis player Rafael Nadal – who comes from Manacor – has built tennis courts, training centres and a school for young tennis players. The name Nadal is everywhere here, because the city is proud of him. We continue towards Porto Christo. The harbour town reminds visitors of the construction boom of the 60s, when many magnificent buildings still had to make way for parking lots. But visitors should not miss the stalactite cave Coves del Drac. It was not until 1896 that Mallorca explorer Ludwig Salvator had them researched and measured by an expedition. It not only has millions of years old, bizarrely shaped stalactites and stalagmites, but also an underground lake 180 meters long and 40 meters wide, Lago Martel. The Dragon’s Cave is a major tourist attraction. The wonderful world of the dripping stones is impressively illuminated. On the lake, a boat is picturesquely passed by the audience. In it sits a quartet that plays atmospheric classical music.

This is why Thai massage is so popular

PatrickJullien
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This is why Thai massage is so popular

Thai massage has been around for centuries and is still gaining popularity today due to its healing properties. A traditional Thai massage can be used to treat many different ailments and conditions, including chronic pain and stress. The massage is also so popular because it has been recognized by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity and is very affordable for many people because it costs less than other massages.

Benefits of a Thai massage

A Thai massage is a traditional massage that combines deep stretching with pressure to help you relax. Massage is a type of bodywork that uses long, flowing strokes and gentle, circular motions to reduce the effects of stress and anxiety, improve circulation, and increase the flexibility of your muscles. The massage technique can also help relieve pain from chronic conditions such as arthritis or fibromyalgia.

Thai massages are also popular for their therapeutic benefits, as well as their relaxing and calming effects on the mind and body. They’re a great way to relieve tension after a long day at work or university.

This is how a Thai massage works

Thai massage usually begins with a foot bath in warm water, which helps to relax the muscles before the masseuse starts working on the client. Next comes a light oil massage on the back and neck before moving on to more important areas such as the arms and legs. This is followed by extensive kneading of the muscles with both hands, which helps to release tension in the muscles before applying more pressure with fingers, palms and balls of the thumbs. The client is fully clothed during the massage.

How to recognize a good Thai massage studio

If you are looking for a good traditional Thai massage studio, here are some helpful tips that can help you. Make sure it has a lot of good reviews from its past customers on various websites like Yelp and Google. These reviews can give you an idea of how well the massage studio is performing and whether or not it is trustworthy.

When looking for a good
Thai massage nearby
 , you can consider other factors. Here are some of the most important factors:

  1. Location – You should find a studio that is easily accessible and close to your home or office.
  2. Massage quality – The quality of the massage is important, so make sure you know what you want before you go to a studio that offers numerous services.
  3. Price – Check out different studios in your area and find out which one offers the best value for money.
  4. Opening Hours – Make sure you know what times the massage studio is open so you can plan ahead accordingly if needed.

How often should you go for Thai massage?

Thai massage
Image: Kittibowornphatnon / shutterstock

There are no set guidelines on how often you should go for a Thai massage. The frequency depends on your health condition and how much time you have to spend on the healing process. If you want to improve your health and get the most out of the benefits of Thai massage, then it’s best to schedule one every two weeks.

However, a Thai massage is not suitable for those who have severe muscle tension, as it can increase the tension and cause pain. It is also not suitable for people with heart problems, high blood pressure or diabetes.

How much does a Thai massage cost on average in Germany?

The cost of a Thai massage can vary depending on the number and duration of sessions per day and the location where it is given, and in Germany it is around €55 for 60 minutes of traditional Thai massage.

Result:

Thai massages are believed to have some health benefits, such as relieving pain from arthritis, relieving muscle tension, improving circulation, reducing fatigue, and improving sleep quality.

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