All about travel

Maupiti – the enchanting atoll in French Polynesia

PatrickJullien

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1. May 2021

Maupiti – the enchanting atoll in French Polynesia

Maupiti is one of the still unknown holiday regions and is perfect for a dream stay away from the usual tourist crowds. Even the geographical location of the atoll sounds magical. Maupiti is one of the Society Islands and is located in the center of the Leeward Islands. The affectionate nicknames also describe this magical island excellently. Maupiti is also called the preserved, the natural, or the untouched.

Also full of magic is the legend about the history of the island’s origins. The neighboring islands of Raiatea and Tahaa were once said to have been of enormous jealousy for the beauty of Maupiti. So the sisters’ island have chased away the small island so that they will no longer be dazzled by its beauty.

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How to get to Maupiti Island

Maupiti can be easily reached by plane from Bora Bora, Papeete or Raiatea. The island is located about 280 kilometers northwest of Tahiti. Maupitis Airport is located on the Motu Tuanai. Maupiti Island can also be reached via express ferry several times a week by express ferry.

On the island itself, the infrastructure plays only a subordinate role. The island in the Pacific Ocean has an area of only 11 km². The island therefore has only one road and cars are hardly started. By moped, bicycle and also on foot, all routes can be made on Maupiti. Do as the locals do and explore the islet in a relaxed way.

Maupiti is surrounded by 5 motus. Motu are the only so-called reef islands in Polynesia , which are located off the coast of an atoll. You can visit these motus comfortably by boat.

Living and vacationing on Maupiti

Even though Maupiti visually resembles the island of Bora Bora, it is absolutely not comparable to this island in terms of tourism. Maupiti is almost untouched and pristine. It is not a glamorous island, but offers peace, serenity and pure privacy. Here you can experience the fauna and flora of French Polynesia up close and also get to know the country and its people intensively culturally and socially.

If you are looking for a South Seas feeling, a Robinson Crusoe island and a holiday for body, mind and soul, then Maupiti is the right place for you. Here, the slowness of being is celebrated and this decelerating flair will surround you in no time.

The island itself is the sight in itself. Here you don’t have to prepare for a sightseeing marathon, but can explore the natural beauty of the island at your leisure.

The highlights on Maupiti Island

Maupiti Mountains — Dreamlike nature in the middle of the ocean, Image: Tibor Scholz / shutterstock

Of course, Maupiti is a highlight for nature lovers. Divers, snorkelers, mermaids and sun worshippers in particular get their money’s worth here. The coral reef with the five moti that nestle around the island scores with a breathtaking underwater world. Other water sports such as kayaking or canoeing are also very popular here. Fishing trips are also available.

But adventurers are not neglected on Maupiti either. The highest elevation on the island is Mont Teʻurafaʻatiu with its height of 380 meters. In Vaiea you can start and hike the highest mountain on the island. About every 100 meters above sea level, a fabulous vantage point awaits you. It offers spectacular views of the island and the ocean. From the summit you can admire the lagoon and the Moti and, on a clear day, you can even see Bora Bora and Raiatea on the horizon.

For climbers, a trip to the Hotu Paraoa Steep Rock is recommended. This towers majestically above Vaiea and is a remarkable 165 meters high. Lush flora lines the path and you will be accompanied by blooming hibiscus and chestnuts. Here, too, you can overlook the upstream Moti from the highest point. However, you should do the climbing tour with a local guide.

By bike you can also visit the historical sites of the island. To the valley of Haranai you follow a magical path. From the Mormon Church north of Vaiea, all you have to do is follow the course of the river. Stones with carvings and tikis can be seen and the pirogue of the god Hiro is also worth seeing.

The Marea Vaiahu is also a cultural site of the island. This separate square was once used for important ceremonies and cultural gatherings. The Marae Vaiahu is located in the south of Maupiti and its temple is dedicated to the four gods of fishermen.

The most beautiful beaches of Maupitis

Maupiti Beach — Of course, Maupiti also offers beautiful beaches, Image: Piotr Gatlik / shutterstock

The most beautiful beach on the island is Terei’a Beach. It seduces with its powdery white sand and invites you to enjoy sunbathing. From the lagoon you can walk through the shallow water to the offshore motu. The romantic sunsets here are also breathtaking.

But as soon as you are by the sea, you have already reached a true dream beach. Maupiti is a dream beach and where you put your beach towel in the sand, you can enjoy the sun of the South Seas.

Don’t miss the five upstream motus, which are laid out like a ring around Maupiti. From the boat, you can admire the colorful variety of fish in the crystal-clear, turquoise lagoon. Here you will discover small leopard rays and manta rays and the colorful fish of the reef.

The motus themselves can be explored on foot. On Pitihahe, for example, you will find the Moon Goddess, an endemic flower called Tiare Hina, which is exclusive to the site. The Motu Paeao is the smallest of the islands and, in addition to a dream beach, is also home to what is perhaps the oldest cultural site in French Polynesia.

South Sea Adventure Micronesia: Diving, Dream Beaches and Exotic Culture

PatrickJullien

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30. April 2021

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South Sea Adventure Micronesia: Diving, Dream Beaches and Exotic Culture

Micronesia, officially the Federated States of Micronesia, refers to an island state whose location many may not be able to assign directly at first. The archipelago is located in the western part of the Pacific Ocean and unites more than 2,000 tropical islands and atolls. The distances between the individual islands are sometimes quite long with a maximum of 4,000 kilometers, from one to the other, and can be covered by boats or small planes. The Philippines lie to the west, Papua New Guinea and Australia to the south, and Japan to the north.

The big mass tourism has not yet arrived here. A diving or bathing holiday along the snow-white sandy beaches of Micronesia takes tourists to a true paradise of the South Seas. With a total of only around 110,000 inhabitants, the Micronesian islands are also quite sparsely populated. The best conditions for peace and relaxation on beaches that are as lonely as they are exotic. The best time to travel is from December to April, when it’s summer in Micronesia, and temperatures are around 30 degrees. There will also be hardly any communication difficulties. In addition to a number of native languages, such as Chuukese or Yapese, each of which has only a few thousand speakers, English is the official language and is mastered by the locals, at least in its basic features.

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The ancient ruined city of Nan Madol

Nan Madol, Micronesia — Nan Madol, Image: maloff / shutterstock

Once you’ve landed in Micronesia, it’s best to take a round trip across several of the islands. A highlight is the ruined city of Nan Madol off the island of Pohnpei. With an area of 334 square kilometers and a good 36,000 inhabitants, Pohnpei is one of the main islands of Micronesia. In pre-colonial times, a highly developed culture existed here. Members of this culture created 92 artificial islands, each about the size of a football field. All islands were created on a coral reef and built between 1200 and 1600 AD. The subsoil consists of basalt and coral stones. The buildings on the islands are mainly temples, tombs, rulers’ houses and places of residence for priests. Narrow waterways meander between the islands, which is why Nan Mandol is also known internationally as the Venice of the South Seas. In the meantime, some of the buildings are badly damaged and overgrown by mangroves. However, this only makes the place all the more mystical and legendary for its visitors.

Money stones, culture and dream beaches on the Yap Islands

Stone Money Yap Islands — Rai, the stone money on the Ulithi atoll in Yap, Image: Iurii Kazakov / shutterstock

The Yap Islands, which, like all of Micronesia, were once German colonial territory, consist of four larger volcanic and ten smaller coral islands, all of which are very close to each other. Only the volcanic islands are inhabited. Those who travel here in the first week of March can experience the culture of the Yap people. Every year, Yap Day takes place, which has now extended to a whole week of festivities, and honors and celebrates the local culture. There are traditional dances and canoe races, and visitors can taste traditional food and drinks.

On the atoll of Ulithi, which belongs to the Yap Islands, remains of the Rai can be found. Rai is a type of stone money that was used as a medium of exchange until 1931. The stone discs, some of which are quite large, can be found on the island, and in its houses. All stone discs stand upright and have a hole in the middle: this hole was hammered into the discs in order to be able to roll and transport them with the help of sticks. Little Raie are the size of the palm of your hand. The really valuable discs are up to four meters tall and weigh up to five tons.

The well-marked Tamilyog Trail is a great way to roam through the hilly and densely forested jungle. There are relics of the Second World War to discover, which also raged here. Crashed aircraft wrecks in particular can be visited. Local tour guides offer guided tours, including explanations. Afterwards you can relax on one of the miles of white dream beaches lined with palm trees, for example in Chamorro Bay, Wanyan or Maap Beach. The chances of having an entire section of beach to yourself are very good.

Micronesia: a paradise for divers

If you would like to use your holiday in Micronesia for diving, you will find wonderful dive sites everywhere, for example on the Chuuk Atoll. The Chuuk Lagoon consists of 57 islands, of which only eleven are inhabited. These are surrounded by a fabulously beautiful coral reef. Off the atoll, numerous wrecks of sunken warships from the Second World War lie aground, waiting to be discovered. However, you are not allowed to dig up treasures here: the wrecks are protected by the state and nothing about them may be changed or even taken away. In addition, huge schools of fish of exotic fish species and sharks attract divers. There are also stony coral gardens with more than 200 different coral species to discover. During guided dives, the professionals can be seen feeding sharks: grey reef sharks, blacktip and whitetip reef sharks are strongly represented. From time to time, rarer shark species such as zebra or hammerhead sharks can also be seen.

The Baltic Sea resort of Sellin – so much more than just sun and sand

Germany

PatrickJullien

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28. April 2021

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The Baltic Sea resort of Sellin – so much more than just sun and sand

Located in the far northeast of Germany, the island of Rügen is a popular holiday destination and one of the most beautiful destinations in eastern Germany. In the east of the island lies the municipality of Sellin, which scores with many interesting sights and a special scenic location. Sellin is located in the Southeast Rügen Biosphere Reserve in a hilly landscape. Here, bathing enthusiasts, as well as sun-seekers, hikers, cyclists and families will find a varied holiday destination. Surfers and sailors also benefit from the location of the town on the Baltic Sea. Sellin was awarded for the fact that the Baltic Sea resort is extremely family-friendly. The resort architecture is a listed building and is an attraction not only for architecture lovers. They are drawn to Sellin’s boulevard, Wilhelmstraße.

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Beach fun for all ages

Those who drive to Rügen are looking for sun and sand. Sellin offers two beaches for this purpose. The main beach is located at Rügen’s landmark, the almost 400-metre-long pier with its pretty spa architecture. The beach measures only one kilometer in length, but is 60 m wide. Here, the beach chairs are lined up and invite you to enjoy the sunny morning hours. This beach is in the shade in the afternoon, as it can be found on the high shore with its forest. Families are just as well catered for here as sun-seekers. When the little ones are not romping in the water, they can go to the bouncy castle or trampoline to jump. On the south beach there is full sun only in the afternoon. The bay is guarded and, at 2 kilometers, is significantly longer than the main beach. On the other hand, the beach measures only 25 meters in width. The very fine sand invites you to build castles, swim and play beach volleyball. Animators invite you to play games throughout the day. The physical well-being is also taken care of. There is a mobile supply on the south beach, while there is a restaurant on the main beach.

Our tip: Rent one of the 13 beautiful Sellin holiday apartments at Villa Celia. This is only 200 meters away from the white Baltic Sea beach.

A different kind of “submersion”

Sellin, Rügen — View of Sellin, Image: konradkerker / shutterstock

If you enjoy your time on the main beach, you should not miss a very special sight in Sellin: the diving gondola at the pier. If you don’t want to or can’t dive yourself, you’re in good hands in the large gondola for a good 30 people. This pressure-resistant construct dives 4 m into the Baltic Sea. The gondola is also an educational institution and provides interesting details about the Baltic Sea, as well as the plants and animals that can be observed here, in half an hour. An underwater film in 3D takes the gondola divers even further into the depths of the Baltic Sea. With the WWF as a partner for nature conservation and a marine biologist from Greifswald , a designer from the surrounding area is building the gondolas. The diving gondola in Sellin is the largest in Europe.

When the sun isn’t shining

In bad weather, families in particular are drawn to the modern “Ahoi” swimming pool with its adventure world. A ride on the “Rasender Roland” spa train is also something for a not so sunny day. Owners of a spa card can use the narrow-gauge railway with its steam locomotive free of charge. The train connects Putbus with Göhren and also runs via Sellin, as well as Binz and Baabe. The train has been chugging across the island at 30 km/h since 1895 and offers a leisurely view of the popular seaside resorts and the varied landscape.

Unusual means of transport

Sellin is scenically located on the Baltic Sea and Lake Sellin in the east of the “Granitz”, a coastal high forest with a large extent. From here, head southeast to “Mönchgut”, a peninsula with a nature reserve of the same name. There is also the village of Baabe, the seat of the municipal administration, to which Sellin also belongs. Baabe scores with its natural harbour Baaber Bollwerk, which is considered one of the most beautiful of its kind in Germany . Fishermen’s houses with roofs made of reeds line the path from Sellin. It is also worth visiting the suburbs that belong to Sellin, such as Moritzdorf, Neuensien, Altensien and Seedorf. Moritzdorf and Baabe on Mönchgut have been connected by a special vehicle since 1890. Since then, a rowing ferry has been running here from Baabe to Moritzdorf and back. The ferryman used to row goods and people. Today, it is often tourists who would otherwise have to take a detour of 8 kilometers around Lake Sellin. Bicycles are also allowed to ride. If you prefer sailing, you can go to the harbour in Seedorf. From here it goes to a popular sailing area. You can also start a discovery tour on the ground from here, because the hilly country around Sellin invites you to take long walks.

Cultural attractions

There is also always something going on culturally in and around Sellin. For example, a visit to the post mill in Altensien, the last remaining mill on the island, is worthwhile. On baking days, visitors can lend a hand here, otherwise an exhibition about the history of the mill beckons. There is an exhibition of a completely different kind in the Sellin Amber Museum. Here you can experience how amber is actually made and what it is used for. On Lake Sellin is also the “Seafarer’s House”, a small museum about the lives of the people who went to sea. In Sellin, culture, sand, sun, sea and landscape are combined to create a holiday for everyone.

What makes Cappadocia special?

Turkey

PatrickJullien

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28. April 2021

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Cappadocia is a remarkable region for a variety of reasons, not only when you look at its long history, but also because of the stunning scenery. It is estimated that Cappadocia’s human history began as early as 1800 BC. The region has always been “caught between two stools” and countless battles have been fought in and around this place. Due to the rocky formations, Cappadocia has served as a hiding place for thousands of years, especially for Christians in the fourth century who hid in the rocks from the wrath of the Romans.

But the fugitives have not only hidden, they have created something unique. If you’re visiting the Cappadocia region, especially near Goreme, you’ll find cave chapels adorned with stunning frescoes. Even in a time of great tribulation, these people managed to create a place of incredible beauty – a sanctuary carved into the rock. These frescoes are still very well preserved today. If you are on holiday in Cappadocia, you should therefore definitely inform yourself about the history of the place in advance.

As far as the eye can see, soft volcanic rock has been shaped into what is colloquially known as “fairy chimneys”. The rocks have been chiseled and worn down by the many battles over time. There are many caves, underground tunnels and bizarre formations, a whole world that you can’t see with the naked eye when you visit Cappadocia.

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What is there to do and experience in Cappadocia?

Anatolia is worth the trip on its own, but activities in the Cappadocia region are experiences that you will probably only have once in a lifetime.

Göreme Open Air Museum

This is probably the best place to get a feel for Cappadocia, both from a geological and historical standpoint. Between the architecture and the rock paintings, this is without question the top tourist attraction in the region. You can go in and out of old churches painted with frescoes and stroll through alleys carved into the rock. Consider that some of these frescoes were painted over a thousand years ago and are still as vivid as if the paint had just dried. The view from the balconies over the valley to the great expanse of the fairy chimneys is also unique. If you’ve brought a camera to Cappadocia (and you should! – If you don’t have a camera, check out Camera Express ), make sure it’s charged.

The Underground Cities

There are several large underground cities in the region that are worth visiting, with Derinkuyu and Kaymaklı being the most rewarding. The two cities are also connected underground. By the way, “Kaymaklı” means “with cream” in Turkish. The caves were mainly used by Christians as a hiding place to escape persecution, and some of these cities were built up to ten floors underground – just let that sink in. If you are claustrophobic, you should think twice about going to the lowest floors of Kaymaklı, because you can literally physically feel the weight of the rock above you. In fact, there are tunnels that served as escape routes in case the caves were entered from the front, complete with defense mechanisms and the like that made it difficult for the attackers to attack the inhabitants.

The highlight: a hot air balloon flight at sunrise

Hot Air Balloon Cappadocia — Hot air balloons before launch, Image: MarBom / shutterstock

Flying over Cappadocia in a hot air balloon can be expensive, but it’s worth every single penny (or lira). A hot air balloon flight in Cappadocia is certainly one of the most formative travel experiences you can have. You slowly climb up into the pink sky and float over the torn earth, then glide effortlessly down into the valleys, past the fairy chimneys.

Cappadocian cuisine

Turkish food in Cappadocia is diverse. Highly recommended is the Testi Kebap, a mixture of meat, vegetables and spices cooked in a sealed clay pot. The gözleme, a type of Turkish crêpe that is often served with potatoes or spinach, is also excellent and very popular in Cappadocia. Turkish tea (known as çay) is also a typical national highlight. The dishes in Goreme are cooked slowly and with care, so everything you order is a real treat for the palate, even your average kebab.

Why should you visit Cappadocia?

There is nothing like it, and that alone is reason enough. The country, its people and culinary delights do the rest to make a trip to magical Cappadocia unforgettable for you.

With the motorhome in the Alps

All about travel

PatrickJullien

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27. April 2021

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This year, the pandemic continues to have a firm grip on us. For this reason, no one yet knows exactly how the situation will present itself in the summer. Incidentally, this also applies to summer holidays, which many citizens like to use for a holiday trip. This year, however, the question arises as to the extent to which vacation trips abroad will be possible at all, and unfortunately restrictions around the well-deserved vacation are also to be expected at home. One option, for example, could be to travel with a hotel on wheels. Motorhomes and caravans can be rented in Munich and many other cities via campanda.de. The Alps, for example, are also suitable destinations with such a rented motorhome.

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Explore the Alps with a campervan

If you don’t have your own motorhome, you can also rent a vehicle for the desired period. It is important to consider whether you want to rent such a motorhome or a caravan at home. It may also be worth considering taking over the desired rental vehicle for the holiday only near the region. In this way, you can initially travel to the destination region by your own car or by train. If you want to spend your next holiday in the mountains, you can also set off for the Alps in a motorhome. After all, there are many interesting places and impressive nature to discover.

Discover the surroundings of Garmisch-Partenkirchen

Garmisch Partenkirchen, Summer — Summer panorama of Garmisch Partenkirchen, Image: Joerg Lutz / Markt Garmisch-Partenkirchen

Garmisch-Partenkirchen is well known, not least because of the organization of a ski jumping event as part of the annual Four Hills Tournament. But even apart from that, the city and the surrounding area has a lot to offer visitors.

With the motorhome, however, many holidaymakers want to experience and enjoy nature in the holiday region. The region around Garmisch-Partenkirchen is definitely the right place for this. After all, there are some fascinating mountains on the one hand and beautiful lakes on the other, which invite you to swim and often do a wide variety of water sports, especially in the summer months.

Visit the mountain village of Wamberg

If you are traveling in this region by motorhome, then you should definitely take a little time for a detour to Wamberg. After all, this is the highest mountain village in Germany that is inhabited all year round. However, the road leading to the mountain village is very narrow, so you should look for a parking space a little further away. Afterwards you can walk the way to Wamberg and enjoy the beautiful nature on this hike. You should not miss a visit to the church of St. Anna in Wamberg, because this village church has a very special charm. There is always a lot to discover near the village, so you should take enough time to discover the beautiful nature. When traveling with a motorhome, it is also important that you should not necessarily completely determine all excursions and destinations. After all, it’s also a lot of fun to just let yourself drift a little and get involved in interesting things on the itinerary.

Alaska – The Wild North

North America

PatrickJullien

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26. April 2021

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In Alaska, the wilderness is majestic and partly still untouched. With two-thirds of the area under nature conservation, this is no wonder. Mountains, canyons, lakes, dense forests and glaciers line up in an impressive way. North America’s highest mountain is also located within the borders of Alaska. The fauna also flourishes in an impressive way and invites you to observe wildlife.

Despite the enormous size of the country, only about 730,000 people live in Alaska and about half of them in Anchorage. The capital Juneau, on the other hand, has only around 30,000 inhabitants.

Alaska is the largest state in North America, which is five times the size of Germany, and is divided into five regions with different landscapes and climates, with the south and the Alaska Panhandle being somewhat milder due to the proximity to the sea.
On average, however, 270 rainy days are expected per year.

In summer, temperatures range from 16° C to 32° C, although the temperature can drop to 4° C at night. Autumn is already clearly noticeable in August in these latitudes and the days become noticeably shorter. The winter is correspondingly cold with an average low of -13°C in January.

Alaska’s nature

Glacier Bay National Park, Alaska — Glacier Bay National Park, Image: Maridav / shutterstock

Particularly impressive in Alaska are certainly fauna and flora. Both are still largely untouched and really wild. For nature lovers, the country is the ideal destination.
With 17 national parks, Alaska has more than any other U.S. state. Many of them were created between 1978 and 1980.

Above all, of course, when you think of Alaska, you think of bears, moose, eagles, otters, mountain goats, orcas and a variety of fish, especially salmon. A wilderness that is balanced, mutually regulating and also complementing each other.

Sea lions also perch on the rocks off the coast and are an impressive sight. They are also very interested in the annual salmon migration. More than 5000 salmon rivers lead from the sea to the interior of the country, where they are already awaited by bears, but also by anglers.

In summer, around 140 million seabirds also migrate to Alaska to take part in the summer feast, which consists primarily of mussels and limpets rather than fish.

Of course, friends of the ice are also catered for: the country’s 100,000 glaciers make up only 3% of the ground area, but are truly impressive. Many of them are home to stunning ice caves.

Alaska’s Cultures

The history of Alaska goes back a long way. About 10,000 to 16,000 years ago, the country was the first part of America to be settled by nomads from Asia who came over the Bering Bridge. It was not until the 17th century that the first Europeans came from Russia and in 1867 Alaska was purchased by the US government.

The official language in Alaska today is not only English, but also 20 indigenous American languages. According to the 2010 census, about 15% of the inhabitants have indigenous ancestry. Many of the indigenous people still maintain a traditional way of life and some of the settlements are also open to visitors.

It is important to the First Nations to preserve their culture and to inform about it.
At the Alaska Native Heritage Center in Anchorage, you can also get information about all indigenous cultures. A distinction is usually made between 5 main indigenous groups, which are divided according to the geography of the country.

Of course, the Russians have also left their mark on the country’s culture. Today, Russian is hardly spoken and there are almost no Russian institutions left in Alaska, but the church is Russia’s heritage. Today, about 50,000 people are still part of the Russian Orthodox Church. The Russian influence is also noticeable in the architecture of the churches with the onion domes. The services are often not only held in one language, but also different indigenous languages are used and even Christian songs are sung in Yupik or Tlingit, for example.

A trip to Alaska

The country can be a real eye-opener. But when the best time to travel is depends heavily on the preferences of the traveler. Summer from June to the end of August is undoubtedly the best time to enjoy nature. So if you are interested in bear-watching, kayak tours or fishing, it is best to go in the warm months. At the beginning of September, the trees finally turn in the strongest shades of red and yellow and the so-called Indian Summer begins. At this time it is exceptionally warm and dry, but the nights are already harbingers of winter.

From mid-February to about mid-April, Alaska is a paradise for skiing and dog sledding, and of course, don’t forget the tremendous beauty of the Northern Lights on these sun-poor days. Festivals can also be a special highlight. In October, Sitka hosts the Alaska Day Festival for three days, which commemorates the handover of the land to the United States and on Seward Day, which is always celebrated on the last Monday in March, the purchase of Alaska by the USA is celebrated and history is resurrected in several festivals throughout the country.
Between May and August, there are many other festivals, of which the Alaska State Fair is undoubtedly the largest, but there are also get-togethers in winter, such as the Fur Rendezvous Festival, which is dedicated to all the joys of winter.

Wine journey through Italy – A wine in the … Marches!

Italy

PatrickJullien

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22. April 2021

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Wine journey through Italy – A wine in the … Marches!

Italy is a destination for all the senses: lively cities, beautiful landscapes, culinary delights and, last but not least, world-famous wine. As a wine country, Italy is remarkable in several respects: Italy is one of the most important wine producers in the world and the cradle of Western European viticulture: with the Romans, wine came to Germany and many other countries. Italy is one of the few countries in the world that has a vibrant wine culture in all regions from north to south. Even today, “Bella Italia” is home to over 1,000 grape varieties.

The first parts of our wine tour have already taken us to
Sicily
,
Apulia
,
Piedmont
and
Veneto
. The fifth part takes us to a rather unknown, but no less worth exploring region: the Marche. This small stretch of land in east-central Italy, located between the Alps and the Apennines on the Adriatic Sea, is home to only 1.5 million people, but it is home to great wines and an important winemaking tradition. With around 25,000 hectares, the Marche region has about as much vineyards as Rheinhessen, Germany’s largest wine-growing region. The mostly gently undulating hilly landscape is favoured by sunlight and warmth, protected from the sea wind and therefore ideal for viticulture.

The Marche: Insider tip for wine connoisseurs

The wines are correspondingly impressive. In the white wine sector, the ancient Verdicchio grape variety, known since the Etruscans, is the flagship of the region. Verdicchio is a white wine with a strong character, rich in acidity and fruity aromas, which is not only grown in the Marche, but indisputably produces the most beautiful wines here. Even though the Marche is internationally known above all for its aromatic white wine, slightly more red wine varieties are grown in the region. The red wines Rosso Piceno and Rosso Cònero stand out. While a Rosso Cònero from the vineyards around the capital Ancona is vinified mainly or exclusively from Montepulciano grapes, with Rosso Piceno it is usually the interplay of Sangiovese and Montepulciano grapes that makes up the special character of this red wine.

A Rosso Cònero is usually an uncomplicated everyday wine with a high drinking flow. On the other hand, the Rosso Piceno, the largest production area in the Marche, can be a little more refined and complex. The special thing about the Marche is certainly that very good qualities can be found here at very low prices compared to well-known Italian wine regions – the unbeatable price-enjoyment ratio makes the Marche a real insider tip for wine explorers!

Our wine tip: De Angelis Rosso Piceno Superiore DOC (organic) 2017

The Rosso Piceno Superiore from the Brandenburg flagship winery De Angelis is a fantastic introduction to the region’s wine world. This red wine is made from hand-picked Montepulciano and Sangiovese grapes from organic viticulture. A wonderfully harmonious, dry wine that matured for two years in large wooden barrels and impresses with a moderate alcohol content of 13 percent by volume. The De Angelis Rosso Piceno Superiore smells and tastes of wild berries, plums and a hint of liquorice, full-bodied and fresh with a beautiful structure and tasty spice. An upscale wine experience at a low price – and incredibly delicious with hearty pasta dishes!

Curious? You can order this great wine here from our partner Televino.

Traveller’s rights in the event of a flight delay

All about travel

PatrickJullien

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22. April 2021

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Traveller’s rights in the event of a flight delay

Flight delays are not only annoying: sometimes they also have a whole range of unpleasant consequences. You may miss a connecting flight, an overnight stay may be necessary, or you may have additional expenses for your meals. You can find out what rights travellers have in the event of a flight delay here.

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In which case do travelers have a right to compensation?

As a general rule, the delay must be at least three hours in order to be able to apply for compensation. This can be a maximum of 600 euros. If your flight is delayed by two hours, the airline must already offer services. If you are five hours late, you can claim damages. However, there is no entitlement to compensation payments in the event of delay if this was due to force majeure. Bad weather, bird strikes and strikes that are not directly related to the airline are included. That would be, for example, a strike by air traffic controllers. Strikes by airline staff, staff shortages, technical problems or icy wings are not considered force majeure.

How much is the compensation in detail?

According to EU law, the amount of compensation for flight delays depends on the flight distance. If your claim is legal, it is staggered between 250 and 600 euros. Up to 1,500 kilometers 250 euros, up to 3,500 kilometers 400 euros and beyond 600 euros. The delay time also plays a role. From a delay of two hours, passengers are entitled to services: these are free drinks and meals. From a delay of five hours, passengers have the choice of whether they still want to take the flight or not. Then it is possible to have the flight ticket refunded.

If you still want to reach your destination, you are entitled, if possible, to an alternative form of transport to your destination, for example by train. It is also possible to rebook on another flight. If the flight or train journey can only be started the following day, you have the right to cover the costs of an overnight stay in a hotel. You are also entitled to the services if the airline is not to blame for the delay of the flight. In addition, they are not offset against any subsequent compensation payments. Other services can also include a maximum of two phone calls if you need to reach your family at home from abroad to inform you of your delay.

What is the EU Air Passenger Rights Regulation for Flight Delays all about?

The regulations mentioned so far fall under the EU Air Passenger Rights Regulation. This comes into force if either the airline is based in the EU or the flight with take-off and landing takes place within the territory of the EU. Even if the delayed airline is not based within the EU. For these airlines, the following also applies: If the flight takes off within the EU and ends outside, the EU Passenger Rights Regulation also applies. However, it does not apply if the take-off was set outside the EU, but the destination is within the EU. The EU Air Passenger Rights Regulation also applies to flights that include connecting flights and have been booked as a complete flight. In this case, both flights act as one, and the total delay must be at least three hours in order to make a claim.

How do I apply for compensation?

In order to be able to apply for compensation, some documents must be available. You will need the boarding ticket with flight number, proof of purchase of the flight, any replacement tickets issued, any vouchers received, receipts for additional costs such as train tickets from the destination airport or hotel costs. In order to be able to prove the delay, you should also have a written confirmation from the airline regarding the flight delay handed over to you at the airport. Make sure that the reason for the delay is stated. In any case, you should also take a photo of the departure board at the airport indicating the delay. The delay time is indicated here. The earlier the compensation payment is submitted to the airline, the better. Internationally, there are different limitation periods for compensation claims. In Germany , it is three years.

What to do with package or business trips?

Flight delay business trip — Even on a business trip, you are entitled to compensation if the flight is delayed, Image: Ekaterina Pokrovsky / shutterstock

In the case of package tours, compensation can also be claimed from the tour operator for a delay of four hours or more. This then affects a part of the price of the package tour. From a legal point of view, it is a travel defect. The basis for compensation payments in the event of travel defects is the so-called Frankfurt Table. This regulates the actual entitlement to and the amount of the compensation payment. In the case of business trips, the passenger is entitled to any compensation. Even if the ticket was booked by the company. However, the employment contract may contain special rules for this. If necessary, check it carefully in advance.

Hiking holidays – The fascination of hiking inspires more and more

All about travel

PatrickJullien

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22. April 2021

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Hiking holidays – The fascination of hiking inspires more and more

It starts with a tingling sensation in the feet. With the desire to just grab your backpack and boots and start running, out into the wide world. Enjoy the silence of nature, its originality and the freedom that lies in it. A hiking holiday is the modern alternative to the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

From green forest paths to majestic mountain paths, past glittering lakes or small wooden huts – the decisive advantage of hiking lies in its diversity. Just take a deep breath between two steps when there are only animals around you for miles, or find happiness in a large group that creates memories together. Discovering foreign cultures under an exotic backdrop is just as conceivable as revealing the secrets of one’s own homeland. With its forests and mountains, Germany offers a good starting point for the first trip.

Regular hiking is a pure blessing for the body. The fresh air and plenty of exercise invigorate tired limbs and draw the sluggishness out of the bones. If you take the first steps slowly, you will not only feel a completely new activity, but also see your surroundings in a completely different light. A wild flower or a colorful mushroom then works like a small miracle.

Hiking holidays – The pilgrims of the modern age

In recent years, a long-established form of long-distance hiking has experienced a real renaissance: pilgrimage is once again enjoying great popularity among the masses. Inspired by bestsellers and movies, millions of people set off every year in Europe alone and run for hours every day towards a common goal. However, the religious idea is increasingly receding into the background. Unlike in the past, pilgrimage today is often an adventure trip, a kind of extreme hiking holiday among like-minded people.

The famous Way of St. James to Santiago de Compostela, Image: gregorioa / shutterstock

The most famous example is certainly the Way of St. James, whose main route leads 800 kilometers from the Pyrenees in southern France to the Atlantic coast in western Spain . One reason for the popularity of this week-long hike, especially among younger travelers, is the ancient network that is responsible for the organization. The paths are well maintained, important information is disseminated quickly and the accommodations along the route are constantly expanded, making pilgrimage even more accessible.

Such a pilgrimage takes time. You can be on the road for weeks or even months at a time and thus detach yourself further and further from everyday life, similar to a hike on one of the world’s most famous hiking trails. On the Pacific Crest Trail, for example, the long-distance hiking trail in the west of the USA, your own camping equipment is part of the basic equipment, unlike pilgrimage. This autonomy illustrates the last major advantage that a hiking holiday has over comparable package tours : it is much cheaper. And since you wake up in a new place every day, it’s also a lot more varied.

Gibraltar – a piece of England at the end of Europe

Gibraltar

PatrickJullien

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20. April 2021

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Gibraltar – a piece of England at the end of Europe

Land is scarce in this strait, and because this is the case, Gibraltar Airport affords itself a very rare “luxury”: its runway is intersected by one of the main roads. As a result, medium traffic chaos is to be expected on Winston Churchill Avenue whenever an airplane is announced. Gibraltar is hardly larger than Baltrum, the smallest of all East Frisian islands. The British have sovereign rights over the southernmost tip of the Iberian Peninsula. There, where on clear days you can not only guess at the African continent. A rock towers four hundred meters high in Gibraltar – it is the last natural fortress in Europe before Morocco. The tax haven became a bone of contention between Spain and England – and has been for about three hundred years now.

Undoubtedly, the most famous rock in Europe has a strategic importance. Napoleon already recognized this when the British destroyed his ships off Gibraltar on their way to Egypt . The British territory on the Mediterranean Sea is exactly 6.5 kilometres in size. But not big enough for the Gibraltar national football team, which has to play its home games in Faro , Portugal, because there was no space for a stadium in their home country. 30,000 people live in Gibraltar – and a few handfuls of Barbary macaques, not all of which are tame and pretty much all very cheeky. They prefer to threaten tourists and steal their bags…

And yet Gibraltar is a popular destination for tourists, most of whom come by land and thus from Spain. A shopping paradise has established itself around the famous rock, because VAT is a foreign word here and therefore alcohol, tobacco products, perfume and watches are quite cheap. The rock is also an interesting attraction for holidaymakers because there is the Gorham Cave Complex, which has been placed on the UNESCO World Heritage List. It is said that the last Neanderthals in Europe once lived here.

According to ancient tradition, the Rock of Gibraltar is said to have been one of the pillars of Hercules. Phoenicians and Romans later became interested in the interface between the European continent and Africa, before the Berbers reached out to Gibraltar in 711. One of the landmarks of the region, once called a “colony” by the United Nations, is the Ibrahim al-Ibrahim Mosque at Europa Point. It is one of the largest Islamic sacred buildings in a non-Islamic country and was inaugurated in 1994. This was a gift from the King of Saudi Arabia, Fahd ibn Abd al-Aziz.

The British Overseas Territory is now an important port for cruise ships. Every year, more than 40,000 passengers land at the Cruise Liner Terminal, the infinitely long pier behind North Mole Road. They then besiege not only the numerous shops, but also the restaurants and supermarkets. Incidentally, their goods come almost exclusively from nearby Spain, and every day 7,000 workers and employees commute from the big neighbor to the small Gibraltar.

The cityscape is also hardly different from that in Spain, while some restaurants have adapted to their British guests in particular and enrich their menus with fish and chips. The telephone booths in Gibraltar are also typically British, which are given a peculiarly exotic coat of paint under the palm trees. The view from the Gibraltar Rock is particularly impressive, the summit of which can be reached in six minutes by cable car. The legendary O’Hara’s Battery with a disused cannon, which was mounted there in 1901 and had a range of more than 32 kilometers, is now orphaned. By the way, you should discover the British enclave at the end of Europe on foot. Featuring the Cathedral of Saint Mary the Crowned, the Governor’s residence, and the Inces Hall Theatre. And if you feel thirsty while strolling through the city, you can be helped in the famous pub The Angry Friar.

Travel information Gibraltar

Capital	–
Form of government	British Overseas Territory
Currency	Gibraltar pound (GIP)
Area	approx. 6.5 km²
Population	approx. 32,577 (2012)
Languages	English
Electricity grid	240 volts, 50 Hz
Area code	+350
Time zone	UTC+1 CET UTC+2 CEST (March to October)