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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.

The Cocos Islands in the Indian Ocean: A paradise for divers and beach vacationers

PatrickJullien
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The Cocos Islands in the Indian Ocean: A paradise for divers and beach vacationers

If you want to spend your holidays on the Cocos Islands, you should first familiarize yourself with the exact name of the archipelago that can be found in the Indian Ocean. In addition to being called the Cocos Islands, the archipelago is also known as the Keeling Islands. The Cocos Islands are a territory of Australia, although they are located 2,930 kilometers from the nearest Australian city of Perth.

The Cocos Islands are called Cocos Islands because the archipelago is known for its large population of coconut palms – it even bears their image on its flag. The islands belonging to the atoll have a total area of about 14 square kilometers. Furthermore, the Cocos Islands are extremely sparsely populated. Only about 550 inhabitants are spread over the 27 islands. If you are looking for peace and seclusion and are looking for fantastic beaches, this is the place for you. The average temperatures on the Cocos Islands are around 30 degrees all year round, which makes the islands a perfect swimming and diving destination.

How to travel to the Cocos Islands

Cocos Islands in Australia
If you are looking for peace and relaxation, you are in good hands on the Cocos Islands, Image: Bildagentur Zoonar GmbH / shutterstock

Admittedly, the Cocos Islands are indeed not easy to reach. They are therefore not suitable for a short holiday from Europe, as the effort involved in the journey would simply be too high. But if you travel to Australia anyway, for example, it is worth taking a detour to the paradisiacal islands. The best way to start is from Australia. The Australian metropolis of Perth, which is located in the far west of the country and thus comparatively close to the Cocos Islands, is particularly suitable as a starting point. The flight time from Perth is approximately 4.5 hours. Direct flights are offered. The Cocos Islands Airport is located on its main island, West Island. From there, tourists can then take a boat to the other islands of the archipelago.

What you should consider when traveling to the Cocos Islands

A trip to the Cocos Islands is especially worthwhile for beach lovers and divers. Both will find the best conditions here. However, despite the pleasant temperatures all year round, it is best to arrive in the months of June to November. Outside of this period, there can be strong tropical cyclones on the Cocos Islands. In addition, there is an increase in long-lasting rainfall between December and April. There should be no problems with communication on the Cocos Islands. Since the islands are strongly oriented towards Australia, English is the official language of the archipelago. Payment is also made here with the Australian dollar. The climate is tropical, which means that the humidity on all the islands of the atoll is always very high. If you have health restrictions, you should have an informational meeting with your doctor before traveling to the Cocos Islands and check whether a stay in a tropical climate can be recommended.

The beaches of the Cocos Islands

One thing has to be said right at the beginning when talking about beach holidays on the Cocos Islands: Basically, it doesn’t matter which of the local beaches tourists would like to visit, after all, the Cocos Islands have nothing else to offer than dream beaches. Everywhere and on all associated islands, the beaches captivate with the very finest, almost white shimmering sand. In front of it stretches clear turquoise blue water whose temperature is always around 25 degrees. Of course, tall coconut palms can be expected everywhere. On the larger islands, the beaches are a little busier, but never overcrowded.

If you want to have a little infrastructure, it’s best to sunbathe here. In addition to sanitary facilities, there is often a café or a small beach bar, or hammocks and beach loungers to borrow. However, tourists who value these things should always find out in advance how well equipped the beach they are heading for. If you prefer solitude on the beach, you have several options to have a dream beach all to yourself. Long walks on the beach for two as well as experiencing romantic sunsets are very easy to do on the Cocos Islands.

Exciting diving adventures in the Cocos Islands

Whether snorkeler, beginner diver or diving professional: on the Cocos Islands, all friends of a colorful and natural underwater world will be happy. Especially in the northern part of the archipelago, one spectacular diving area follows the next. The areas that are located in the area of the Pulu-Keeling National Park are particularly recommended. Mammals are not to be found in Pulu-Keeling National Park. However, there are a wide variety of bird and turtle species to marvel at.

Furthermore, divers can discover no less than 99 different species of stony corals in the national park. Nine of them can only be found exclusively on the Cocos Islands. They do not occur anywhere else in the world. In addition, there are 528 different fish species, almost 500 underwater snail species and more than 100 different mussel species. Even the most experienced diver is guaranteed to be able to make one or two new discoveries here. Snorkelers also like to visit Direction Island, as they find the best snorkeling conditions in shallow water

Top 10 in Hamburg: These are the most important sights

PatrickJullien
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Top 10 in Hamburg: These are the most important sights

Hamburg inspires with numerous sights, some of which have a long history. Several of these sights can even be explored free of charge, as
the interactive map “Hamburg for every budget”
 shows. Other sights cost little, but there are also various destinations for the slightly larger budget. In any case, Hamburg is worth a trip, whether for a short break or a long weekend.

1. The largest warehouse ensemble in the world – the Speicherstadt

Interactive map with leisure activities
for every budget

The building complex of Hamburg’s Speicherstadt is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and houses various sights. When visiting the Speicherstadt, the International Maritime Museum, the German Customs Museum and the Speicherstadt Museum should be on the program. Coffee lovers should not miss the coffee roastery.

2. Hamburg in miniature – the Miniatur Wunderland

If you visit the Speicherstadt, you can plan a visit to the Miniatur Wunderland, which shows Hamburg on a scale of 1:87 and currently has an exhibition area of 1,500 square meters. There are various special exhibitions.

3. Karoviertel in St. Pauli

The Karoviertel in St. Pauli was once a poor district. Today, many restaurants, cafés and bars invite you to linger. There are also elegant boutiques.

Hamburg, Elbphilharmonie
The Elbphilharmonie, Image: sunfun/shutterstock

4. The Elbphilharmonie as a landmark

The Elbphilharmonie is a concert hall and the landmark of Hamburg. It was completed in 2016 and is characterized by good acoustics. Classical concerts are performed there as well as modern events. The Plaza offers an excellent view of the city as a connection between the glass façade and the old Kaiserspeicher.

5. Blankeneser Treppenviertel with 5,000 steps

The Blankenese Treppenviertel with its 5,000 steps requires a good level of fitness. It inspires with beautiful houses on the Elbe slope and winding alleys. The Süllberg is the highest elevation at 72 meters and offers a beautiful panoramic view of Hamburg.

6. Planten un Blomen as a spacious park

If you want to relax in nature, you can do so in the 47-hectare Planten un Blomen park with the moat and many small lakes. Several hours should be planned for a visit to the park with various gardens such as the Japanese Garden, Rose Garden and Botanical Garden.

7. Germany’s Most Visited Star Theatre: Hamburg Planetarium

The Hamburg Planetarium is the most visited star theatre in Germany and one of nine large planetariums. It is located in a former water tower and is one of the longest-serving star theatres in the world. The technology and the changing program are fascinating. The observation deck offers a beautiful view of the city.

8. A market with tradition: Hamburg Fish Market

If you want to watch and listen to real market criers praising their goods, you should get up early. The Hamburg fish market opens every Sunday from 05:00 a.m. to 09:30 a.m. At the traditional market hustle and bustle in Hamburg, not only fresh fish but also other goods are sold.

9. Alster and Alsterpark with many possibilities

The Hamburg Alster is divided into the Inner Alster and the Outer Alster. Around the Alster is the Alsterpark with many opportunities to discover or relax. A high-rise viaduct stretches across the Alster. The park offers many sunbathing areas, trees, and sculptures by various artists. If you want to see more of Hamburg from the water, you can opt for a trip by pedal boat or canoe.

10. The Old Elbe Tunnel in new splendour

A technical masterpiece is the Old Elbe Tunnel, which connects the Landungsbrücken under the Elbe with the port area in Steinwerder. It is car-free and can be explored by bike or on foot. It is open around the clock and shows various motifs on tiles. The tunnel was extensively renovated.

 

Wernigerode – Short break in the Harz Mountains

PatrickJullien
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Wernigerode – Short break in the Harz Mountains

Wernigerode, the colourful town in the Harz Mountains. This saying, coined by Hermann Löns, is still the motto of the city today. Located in the middle of the Harz Mountains, Wernigerode is not just colourful, but above all a state-approved resort. Generations of Germans and travellers from abroad have used the wonderful air in the Harz Mountains to recover from the exertions of their holidays. Even today, the city is still one of the absolute highlights of Saxony-Anhalt and invites you to take a short break in the Harz Mountains.

The short break in the Harz Mountains

Wernigerode Castle
Wernigerode Castle, Perekotypole / shutterstock

The Harz Mountains are one of the areas of Germany that are known to almost everyone by name, but where most people have actually never been. The Central Mountains of the Federal Republic of Germany not only attract with an impressive history and many sights, but of course above all with great nature and many opportunities for relaxation and distance from everyday life. The possibilities for hiking in the Harz Mountains alone are known far beyond the fans of the sport. So if you have never been to the Harz Mountains – Wernigerode is just one of many destinations that are worthwhile for a short holiday.

However, the city of Wernigerode is without a doubt one of the best opportunities for a first great impression of the Harz Mountains, the cities and the people. With its old town and the many historic buildings, you always have something for the eye. The motto “The colorful city” plays a very special role. It quickly becomes apparent that the buildings around the market square are painted in a wide variety of colors, that colorful decorations play an important role in the city and that the gray North German weather has no chance to dampen the mood here. The city lives the motto and that is noticeable in the first few minutes you walk through the city.

What should you see in Wernigerode?

Wernigerode has completely adapted to the tourists who move in here all year round. Especially in winter, the city centre is a festival of lights, as the local Christmas market is also known beyond the borders of the region and of course has its own charm, especially in the shadow of the many historic buildings. So if you want to go to the Harz Mountains for a short holiday, you should look around, especially in autumn and winter. However, the cultural events are spread throughout the year. Especially on Walpurgis Night, the Harz Mountains come to life with the legends about the witches and many events, celebrations and dances accompany the event.

In general, the city center is worth a visit. Not only are most of the shops and restaurants to be found here, the old houses around the market square still bear witness to the fact that the city has a long history. The market square has existed in this form since the late 16th century and has only undergone some restorations after the war. Another testimony to the former importance of this area is the Wernigerode Castle. It can be visited all year round and not only cuts a fine figure in winter, as it towers over the Harz Mountains and with its considerable towers makes a wonderful motif for postcards.

The “smallest house”, a beautiful old half-timbered house, which is particularly known for its small size, is just as worthwhile a visit as the aviation museum of Wernigerode. All in all, there is a lot on offer in the city in terms of culture, music and gastronomy. You shouldn’t have ended your short holiday in Wernigerode without having been to one of the quaint restaurants of the small town at least once, which have wonderful cuisine from the heart of Germany on their menus.

Activities and overnight stays during a short break in Wernigerode

Town Hall of Wernigerode
Town Hall of Wernigerode, Image: lunamarina / shutterstock

Hardly any other area in Germany invites you to so many activities as the Harz Mountains. If you decide to take a short break in the region, it always depends on the season. In winter, you are quickly above the snow line and find some interesting ski regions in the Harz Mountains, where you can enjoy winter sports with all its facets, especially in the depths of winter. However, you are not limited to skis or toboggans, but can enjoy the beautiful landscape on a hike and let the Harz Mountains work their magic on you. Of course, this is even better in autumn and spring, when the Harz Mountains show their green side and the vast forests on the mountains combine with folklore and the many sagas and legends associated with this region of Germany.

When it comes to accommodation, holidaymakers in the Harz Mountains actually have it quite easy. There are many offers in Wernigerode itself – with a little luck you can even spend the night right next to the historic town hall. Otherwise, tourism here has adapted to the many holidaymakers and offers overnight stays in all forms and for all price ranges, from spa hotels to simple overnight stays for winter sports enthusiasts.

Getting married in Mallorca

PatrickJullien
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Getting married in Mallorca

The Balearic island is not only popular as a holiday destination: the easy journey paired with guaranteed sunshine and fantastic locations for every taste have made Mallorca one of the most popular wedding locations for German couples. And they can benefit locally from the strong infrastructure and countless German-speaking service providers. So the wedding under palm trees does not have to be more expensive than at home.

Wedding abroad – what should be considered?

A civil wedding is out of the question for most couples from Germany, as at least one spouse must have registered his or her residence in Spain. The compulsory portion of the marriage therefore often takes place at home. For the freestyle, however, Mallorca offers everything you could wish for. It doesn’t matter whether it’s a Catholic, Protestant or free wedding. In Mallorca, everything is possible in German and the organization is often easier than you think.

Free wedding ceremony

Unsurprisingly, the most common variant of the ceremony is the free wedding ceremony. This is the only way to celebrate the wedding at any location and is not dependent on a church or chapel. Those who get married in Mallorca usually prefer to enjoy the sun and sea. In addition to event locations or restaurants on the coast, your own (rented) finca is the ideal place for a romantic wedding ceremony.

The finca as a wedding location

In contrast to many other options, you have often already booked the accommodation and do not have to worry about renting a room. Especially in the center of the island you will find an inexhaustible selection of holiday homes, which offer a perfect backdrop for the wedding ceremony with garden and view. The large array of decorations is not necessary here. From rustic to ultra-modern, there is a suitable finca for every taste if you start planning early enough.

The cost of a wedding in Mallorca

The wedding budget is always one of the most important factors in planning. But if you do it right, you don’t have to spend more on your dream wedding on the island than you would for a comparable service in Germany. It is advisable to draw on the experience and network of local experts – although a separate wedding planner is not necessarily required in Mallorca. Lukas P. Schmidt has chosen Mallorca as his adopted home as a wedding photographer and has been living and working on the island all year round for many years. In his experience, wedding planning in Mallorca is much easier than many bridal couples initially fear. The photographer has some important tips for this:

The right time of year to get married in Mallorca

Mallorca also has a wedding season – and it hardly differs from the domestic one for German couples. From May to October, by far the most weddings take place on the island. But many couples do not consider that summer in Mallorca in swimming shorts and bikini is something different than in an elegant three-piece suit or wedding dress. With a wedding ceremony in the afternoon at well over 30 degrees, you are not doing yourself or your guests any favors. The siesta of the locals is between 2 and 6 p.m. for a reason. Especially in autumn or spring, you save on travel costs instead and have a larger selection of accommodation available than in the high season. The 300 days of sunshine in the Balearic Islands also provide the right atmosphere outside of July and August.

The best island regions for a wedding

Wedding in Mallorca
The church of Sant Bortomeu, Image: schoppino / shutterstock
Wedding in Mallorca
Relaxed celebration in a finca in the interior of Mallorca, Image: Alex Mesa / shutterstock

When it comes to Mallorca, many people first think of beach and sea. But the tourist strongholds such as Cala Ratjada are of course fully booked in summer. Romantic coastal flair hardly comes up anymore. Instead, things are much more relaxed in the interior and guests will thank you if they don’t have to drive for hours from the airport. Whether Sóller in the west or around the island’s capital Palma de Mallorca: You will find the best conditions for your wedding where the beach holidaymakers are a little further away.

Find a service provider for the wedding abroad

Whether flower decoration, DJ, catering or wedding photographer: the best service providers can be found almost everywhere directly on site. Benefit from the network of local experts and local knowledge and save yourself the expensive travel costs: In Mallorca you will find a large selection of German-speaking professionals for every service, who know exactly what works on site.

The honeymoon is booked at the same time

One of the great advantages of getting married on your own finca: After the wedding, you are already on your honeymoon. In the high season, minimum bookings of several days are common for all accommodations, so that the wedding location can also be used immediately. If you want, you can accommodate the family for the weekend and have perhaps the most relaxed wedding process ever: From your own bedroom only a few steps to the wedding ceremony – and the next morning start your honeymoon with a dip in the pool!

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