On the edge of the Sporades is the island of Alonnisos, a true natural paradise. Unspoilt beaches and a lush landscape characterize the rather unknown island, which looks back on an eventful past. The magic of the destination also lies in the fact that the island is rather sparsely populated and there are only a few small villages apart from the main town of Patitiri.
Of course, there is no airport on the idyllic island. If you choose Alonnisos as your holiday destination, you can either travel via the city of Volos or via the neighbouring island of Skiathos . Both Volos and Skiathos are served by numerous European airlines several times a week during the peak tourist season and offer a ferry connection to the island of Alonnisos. In the low season, you can travel via Athens or Thessaloniki. Even if a little longer distances have to be accepted for the journey, the effort is forgotten at the latest at the sight of the island paradise of Alonnisos.
Port of Alonnisos, Image: Pit Stock / shutterstock
Even the first view of Alonnisos from the ferry gives an idea that the island has a very special magic. The island’s capital Patitiri, framed by pine trees, is practically the gateway to the island paradise for travellers. Around the atmospheric harbour there are some lovely taverns and cafes from which guests can enjoy the view of the fishing and sailing boats moored in the harbour as well as the uninhabited islands of Dyo Adelfia.
The breathtaking island landscape immediately makes you want to explore and so the island with its lush flora is also a hiker’s paradise. The island, which consists mainly of limestone, is overgrown with spruce, olive, fig and almond trees. In addition, viticulture is also practiced on the sun-drenched island, so that hikers always come across romantic-looking vineyards. If you walk mindfully through nature, you can also discover numerous wild herbs on the island, which beguile with their scent.
There are also numerous myths surrounding the island. Among other things, Peleas, the father of Achilles, is said to have chosen the island at the end of the Mycenaean epoch to spend his last years there and find his final resting place here. Regardless of mythology, numerous finds prove that the island was one of the first inhabited islands in the Aegean Sea and was exposed to a wide variety of influences throughout history.
Ultimately, Alonnisos seems to take his guests into another world. The island paradise makes it possible to enjoy nature and the special silence of the island world.
Chora – a journey into the past
Anyone who explores the villages of the island quickly gets the feeling of having traveled into the past. Especially the former capital Chora, which today is also often referred to as the “old village”, is extremely worth seeing. Only 2.5 km from the new capital Patitiri, the historic streets of Chora invite you to a very special exploration tour. The narrow and winding streets of the village are lined with ancient stone houses. Small shops and boutiques characterize the place as well as cozy taverns and nice little cafés. Once built as a medieval fortress to protect pirates, the village is still surrounded by the castle walls and only accessible through two entrances. This also ensures that the “village” is completely car-free, which further underlines the historic townscape.
Alonnisos National Marine Park – Northern Sporades
Agios Dimitrios (Saint Demetrios) beach on the island of Alonnisos, Image: Pit Stock / shutterstock
With a unique combination of land and marine biotope, it is the Alonnisos National Marine Park that delights nature lovers from all over the world. The unique flora and fauna, the natural beaches and the fascinating underwater world are thus under special protection.
So it is not only wonderful to enjoy the sun on the natural beaches and refresh yourself in the crystal-clear sea, but it is also particularly worthwhile to explore the underwater world. The unique ecosystem of the Northern Sporades ensures, among other things, that the rare Mediterranean monk seals cavort here.
But the underwater world around Alonnisos also combines the beauty of nature with the myths and legends that surround the island. Thus, numerous historically valuable shipwrecks, some of which originated from the seabed, can be found on the seabed. 4. and 5th century BC originate.
Excursion tip – Pelagonisi
The northern Sporades hold some treasures and so a boat trip from Alonnisos to the island of Pelagonisi (Kyra-Panagia) is worthwhile. It is the largest uninhabited island in the archipelago. But this was not always the case and numerous finds prove that the now uninhabited island was built as early as 6,000 years BC. was settled. There is evidence that the ancient city of Alonnisos was located on the island. A testimony to the former settlement are the ruins of the Kyra Panagia monastery complex, a windmill and a historic wine press.
Culinary tips for your holiday in Alonissos
To this day, the inhabitants of Alonnisos are very conscious of tradition, which is reflected not only in the authentic places, but also in the gastronomic offer. Fresh fish should not be missing from the menu in any tavern on the island and the tasty fish dishes also convince gourmets.
Especially the traditional fish soup Kakavia is worth trying, but also delicious meat dishes prepared according to family recipes can be found in the taverns. However, local specialties also include desserts such as fauskakia or hamalia. A very special sweet called Amigdalota is also very suitable as a souvenir to extend the holiday season, at least culinarily.
On the far eastern edge of Canada, directly on the Atlantic Ocean, lies its second smallest province: Nova Scotia. Offshore islands and a peninsula belong to the province, whose capital Halifax is located directly on the Atlantic coast. This means that it can be reached from Frankfurt Airport in barely 7 hours by plane. With less than 400,000 inhabitants, Halifax is not very large compared to other Canadian provincial capitals and has retained the charm known from romantic port towns. In addition, the Canadian city has a lot to offer with its long shipping history. As early as 1758, the construction of the first shipyard began here.
The historic harbour alone is a great attraction. On the harbour promenade, visitors can stroll comfortably along the water and explore the interesting area. A good place to start is the Canadian Immigration Museum, which deals with the history of the very many cultures in one of the largest countries on earth. Located at Pier No. 21, it was once the gateway to the country for more than 1 million people who came here as immigrants between 1928 and 1971 for a variety of reasons in the hope of a better life.
The harbour is undoubtedly characteristic of the city on the ocean. The harbour district has an old complex of warehouses. The trading offices and small alleys now house shops and restaurants. Small galleries and shops invite you to take a stroll here. There are also many small cafés, restaurants and bars to linger in. Something special is the “Seaport Farmers’ Market”, the oldest farmers’ market on the North American continent, which exists continuously.
Founded in 1750, it now offers over 250 vendors the opportunity to offer their fresh goods such as local wine, fruits, fish and organic vegetables. This also applies to the most extravagant seafood for which the province is world-famous, the lobster. A freshly grilled lobster is an inseparable part of a visit to Halifax. Not far from the market, visitors can expect a replica of the “Bluenose”, a schooner who became a Canadian legend and national shrine. Today, the ship can be found on the 10-cent coin in Canada as an embossing and was also already on sale as a stamp. Another ship has left its mark on the city.
The survivors of the Titanic came here in 1912 after their shipwreck. The “Maritime Museum of the Atlantic” deals with this in its exhibition about the Titanic, which is well worth seeing. Although Halifax is the capital of Nova Scotia and a metropolis, it is compact enough to be easily explored on foot. Especially in the evening it is worth a stroll, because this is where there are supposedly the most pubs in North America, converted to the number of inhabitants. Live music is the order of the day here, as the city is also full of students who go to the six local universities and want to be entertained in the evenings.
Halifax – Strategically located
Halifax is literally the “gateway to Nova Scotia”, as it is located on a headland directly in the Atlantic Ocean. The British recognized the strategically important situation early on. As early as 1749, they built the “Citadel”, a fortification of unimagined proportions, in which the British troops were accommodated. The citadel is located behind the natural harbor on the “Citadel Hill” hill and overlooks the action. This makes the star-shaped complex a popular vantage point, but also the city’s landmark. Tours with knowledgeable guides introduce visitors to the arsenal of ancient weapons. It is always fired at noon as a tradition and is an attraction for tourists. The clock tower in the old town is also an inseparable part of Halifax. The father of the English King Victoria, then commander-in-chief of the British soldiers living in Halifax, was responsible for its construction in 1803. He loved punctuality, so he put clocks on all sides of the tower so that his subordinates were always in the right place at the right time.
If you are in downtown Halifax, you should take a look at the Anglican St. Paul’s Church. It dates back to the 18th century, making it the oldest building in the port city. It is also the oldest Protestant church in the entire country. With its old and new buildings, Halifax is therefore a city between history and modernity. Promising buildings are integrated into the historic cityscape. In 2014, the new library was built as a cubist cube. It is made entirely of glass and steel and stretches like an open atrium with its stairs and bridges over 5 piecework. A special feature is the oversized beam, which was placed across the flat roof. The library roof thus forms the axis of history between the harbour and the star-shaped citadel.
Festivals – celebrating life on the Atlantic
In the warm season, Halifax is a city of festivals. In July, there is a jazz festival, which is very popular. The homosexual movement also likes to celebrate with the “Pride Festival” with about 120,000 visitors in the port city. Underground art forms will be showcased at the Fringe Festival in August. Performances at various locations in the city surprise with wit and unusual ideas. There is even a festival for the popular lobster, the “Lobster Carnival”, which is celebrated in the Halifax area in July.
Popular Restaurants in Halifax
The Press Gang Restaurant & Oyster Bar: Located in the historic downtown, this fine restaurant offers a mix of fresh seafood and local ingredients. Specialties include raw or baked oysters and dishes such as lobster thermidor.
2 Doors Down: This casual downtown restaurant is known for classic comfort dishes with a modern twist, such as mac and cheese with lobster and fish and chips.
The Old Triangle: A lively pub in the heart of Halifax offering traditional Irish dishes such as Irish stew and fish and chips, accompanied by a selection of beers and whiskeys.
The Auction House: A popular downtown gastropub that serves an eclectic mix of dishes with international influences, including Korean fried chicken and fish tacos.
The Wooden Monkey: A restaurant that specializes in healthy and sustainable food, with a variety of vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options, as well as sustainably sourced meats and seafood.
La Frasca Cibi & Vini: An Italian restaurant in Halifax’s North End that offers traditional Italian dishes with a modern twist, including bucatini all’amatriciana and beef tenderloin carpaccio.
The Five Fishermen: A top-notch seafood-focused restaurant known for its fresh oysters, daily ceviche, and extra succulent scallops.
The Kitchen Table: An intimate restaurant behind Ratinaud’s Charcuterie in the hip North End that offers an 8-course meal with a strong French influence.
The Bicycle Thief: A popular waterfront restaurant serving Italian-inspired gourmet cuisine with an impressive selection of champagnes and fine wines.
Little Oak: An intimate wine and snack bar in Bishop’s Landing on the Halifax Waterfront, serving high-quality, locally sourced snack dishes and shared platters of rare wines and incredible craft cocktails.
The Brooklyn Warehouse: A popular local restaurant in Halifax’s West End known for its fresh, local ingredients and part of Taste Nova Scotia and the Slow Food movement.
Studio East: A trendy West End restaurant that combines Asian flavors with Nova Scotia flavors, offering a wide range of dishes including oysters, sushi, ramen, burgers, and curries.
Hotel recommendations for Halifax
The Halliburton: A cozy, upscale inn located very close to downtown. It offers a lovely restaurant and a charming atmosphere, ideal for guests looking for quiet and elegant accommodation.
Cambridge Suites Hotel Halifax: This stylish and reliable hotel is located on the edge of the city centre and offers great views of the historic Citadel. It has nice breakfast options, rooms with kitchenettes, and a rooftop terrace.
The Prince George Hotel: A clean, upscale hotel in the heart of downtown that’s known for its excellent location and service. It offers a variety of amenities, including an award-winning restaurant and an indoor pool.
DoubleTree By Hilton Halifax Dartmouth: Located in Dartmouth overlooking downtown Halifax, this hotel offers modern amenities and comfortable rooms. It is a great choice for guests who want to enjoy a view of the city.
Hampton Inn By Hilton Downtown Halifax: An updated, functional hotel located in the northern part of downtown, just steps from the historic Citadel and waterfront. The hotel offers breakfast, a fitness centre and a swimming pool.
On the northeast coast of the rocky Seychelles island of Mahé lies the capital of the island state, which is well worth seeing. Founded in 1778 by French settlers, the city with just 25,000 inhabitants has retained its special charm to this day. After the Anglo-French War in 1814, the British gained control of the Seychelles and in honor of the queen, the city was named Victoria.
To this day, the most diverse influences are omnipresent in Victoria. This makes the city a real gem, because neon signs and the like are not to be found in the capital. There are just two traffic lights in the picturesque city, which inspires its visitors with its numerous sights and unique flair.
Arulmihu Navasakti Vinayagar Hindu Temple in Victoria, Image: Reiner Conrad / shutterstock
Victoria is mainly characterized by buildings and residential buildings from the early 20th century. Colourful facades, varied architecture and palm-lined streets create a special picturesque overall picture. One of the classic sights is the “Cathedrale of Our Lady of Immaculate”, which was built in 1892 and can be found on a small hill on the outskirts of the city. The sacred building, which is well worth seeing, is surrounded by a well-kept garden. Right next to the cathedral is the two-storey priest’s residence from 1934.
No less worth seeing is the Clock Tower, which is located in the middle of an intersection. This was erected in 1903 by the English governor in honour of the Queen and strikes twice on the hour. But not only the Clock Tower is a reminder of the rule of the British, but also the State House. The former governor’s residence is surrounded by a lush garden and is now used as a presidential residential and office building.
An absolute highlight is the National Botanical Garden. This was founded in 1901 and covers 10,000 m². With over 500 plant species, including 150 species of orchids, the green jewel inspires its visitors. Special highlights such as the natural cloud forest and a large enclosure with Aldabra giant tortoises provide unforgettable impressions.
If you want to learn more about the history and development of the city, you should definitely head for the National Cultural Centre.
Victoria’s unusual sights
The Little Big Ben in Victoria, the capital of the Seychelles. Image: dvoevnore
Victoria not only shines with classic sights, but there are also some extraordinary sights to be found in the dreamlike city. Particularly impressive and symbolic is the Bicentennial Monument, which was erected in 1978 for the 200th anniversary of the founding of the Monument. Birthday of the city. Designed by the Italian artist Lorenzo Appiani, the monument consists of three wings, which stands for the different roots of the inhabitants of the Seychelles. The wings stand for the continents of Asia, Africa, Europe and the resulting multicultural mix that characterizes Victoria.
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The Bel Air Cemetery also takes its visitors back in time and bears witness to the fact that people from all over the world were drawn to Victoria. The historic cemetery with its dilapidated gravestones and memorial plaques is one of the oldest surviving places of worship in the Seychelles and still commemorates the first citizens of the city.
Many visitors to the city are surprised by the small Arul Mihu Navasakthi Vinayagar temple complex. The magnificently designed temple was built in 1992 and is an absolute eye-catcher and testifies to the fact that around 5,000 Hindus live in Victoria. But not only the temple complex surprises, but also the small mosque with its gilded dome, which serves as a meeting place for the Muslim community of Victoria.
Shopping in Victoria
Sir Selwyn Selwyn Clarke Market, Image: Luca Pape / shutterstock
The historic “Sir Selwyn Selwyn Clarke Market” is a fantastic location. In 1840, estates were established by the French governor. Since then, farmers and fishermen have offered their goods for sale on the market square. To this day, visitors to the market can buy fresh fruit, vegetables and fish from the colourful stalls. But spices, clothing, leather goods, baskets, carvings and handicrafts are also offered for sale at the stalls. After shopping, a small café invites you to linger directly on the market square.
Of course, the multicultural city is also international in the field of cuisine. It is recommended to discover Creole cuisine for yourself. But restaurants with Asian, French and international cuisine can also be found in Victoria. If you don’t necessarily want to eat in a restaurant, you can try the wide range of street food. Not only is street food much cheaper than going to a restaurant, but delicious specialties are freshly prepared at the stalls in the streets of the city, so that even gourmets are enthusiastic about the fast cuisine. Also recommended are the street stalls, which offer fresh and tasty fruit as a snack. But you can also enjoy a delicious cocktail in the quiet city, because in the harbour area there are some beautiful restaurants where you can end the evening in a pleasant way.
If you are looking for peace and solitude during your holidays, and want to combine the whole thing with wonderful summer weather and originality, the Cycladic island of Amorgos is the right place for you. There are neither large hotels nor other traces of mass tourism here. Less than 2,000 people live on the island, which is around 38 square kilometres in size. On the other hand, there are breathtakingly beautiful cliffs, rock monasteries worth seeing and fascinating hiking routes on well-trodden mule tracks.
Amorgos can be reached by ferry from the Greek capital Athens, or from one of the larger Cyclades islands. Even the entrance over the emerald shimmering Aegean Sea is an experience. The ferries land alternately in Katapola and Ägiali. During the arrival of the ferries in Katapola, visitors have a fantastic view of the surrounding cliffs with their bizarre rock formations. Afterwards, it is worth stopping in the traditional fishing village. Directly by the sea, there are excellent restaurants where the fresh catch of the fishermen is tastily prepared and offered for sale. From the terraces of the restaurants, you can watch a tranquil sunset in the evening. The small village is winding, visitors stroll through enchanted and narrow alleys. The houses have been built, as on the rest of the island, entirely according to the Cycladic architectural style. Box-shaped snow-white houses, with blue decorations that can be seen occasionally, are lined up next to each other. After strolling through the village, a short hike should be taken to the excavation site of the ancient city of Minoa, which is located about three kilometers from the center of Katapola. A well-signposted hiking trail leads there. Minoa is located above the modern village. In addition to the exciting remains of a long-abandoned city, there is also a magnificent view over the bay of Katapola to enjoy.
A stroll through the idyllic island capital of Chora
Another highlight is a visit to the island’s capital Chora, which is sometimes referred to as Hora. The maze of alleys is even more convoluted here than in Katapola. In Chora, there is also a Venetian-style fortress that dates back to the 13th century. It is located high on a rock above the city. The best way to climb the fortress is in the evening hours, because then you can marvel at the setting sun in addition to the wide panoramic view over Chora. In the archaeological museum of Chora, which is open to all visitors, excavation finds from the island of Amorgos from the Minoan era are exhibited. A short walk east takes the adventurous to some traditional stone windmills.
The new Aegean crime novel by Peter Pachel promises you even more exciting experiences on holiday on Amorgos.
Content: A pensioner is found dead in an old apartment in Berlin Charlottenburg. He was brutally murdered, and the circumstances of his death horrify even hardened detectives. The first clues lead to a small coastal town on an island in the southern Aegean. Filippos Panos, the police chief of Paros, is ordered to Amorgos to support the German-Greek team of investigators. What did the old man want there shortly before his death, after he had turned his back on the island many years ago? It quickly becomes clear that he was not only on the island for his vacation, and long-forgotten things become the focus of the investigation …
On foot, over the Palia Strata to the Orthodox monastery of Panagia Chozoviotissa
View of the monastery of Panagia Chozoviotissa, Image: John Ilio / shutterstock
Palia Strata literally translates to “Old Road”. This trail, which is the most famous and also the most beautiful on the whole island, is an old mule track. From Chora, you hike over 14.5 kilometers to the Orthodox monastery of Panagia Chozoviotissa, which is known as the landmark of the island of Amorgos. The monastery complex, which stands on a 300-metre-high cliff, was built as early as the 11th century. The monastery of Panagia Chozoviotissa is not only ancient, but even the second oldest monastery in all of Greece. There are 300 steeply rising steps leading to the entrance of the monastery, which makes the ascent very sweaty on hot days. On the other hand, the view over Chora from the monastery is phenomenal.
If you want to visit the monastery not only from the outside, but also from the inside, which is free of charge, you should adhere to the strict dress code of the Orthodox monks. Men and women must wear long trousers. For men these are long trousers, for women skirts. Ladies who are not skirt wearers, for example, can improvise with a long scarf that they wrap around their hips. In addition, the shoulders must be covered when entering the monastery. Afterwards we continue via Kapsala to the villages of Asfondilitis, Potamos and Aegiali. The hiking trail, like many hiking routes on the island, is considered difficult. The climbs are sometimes very steep. The ground often consists of narrow paths covered with scree. It is therefore advisable to wear good hiking shoes in any case. Depending on the season, it can also get very hot on the hike. Therefore, you should always take enough water with you. A hat and sunscreen should also be taken with you on the hiking tour.
The most beautiful beaches in Amorgos
The Cycladic island of Amorgos is not necessarily known as a classic beach holiday destination due to its many cliffs. But even here there are some beach pearls that are worth visiting. The beaches of Psili Ammos, Levrossos and Hochlakies are all hidden at the end of a narrow hiking trail. They can also be reached by boat from the water. Ideal for sun worshippers who love to be alone.
Mexico, the southern neighbor of the USA, is the largest Spanish-speaking country in the world in terms of population. Geographically, it belongs to North America. Mexico is about 10 – 12 hours away from Germany by plane.
Most of Mexico’s residents speak Spanish. In addition, dozens of native languages are spoken. English is not understood or spoken everywhere. Because the country is very mountainous, there are large differences in the local climate. In addition to desert climates, especially in the north, there are large regions with alpine, subtropical and tropical climates. The UV radiation is very intense and the climate is generally warm and sunny. Travellers should therefore take appropriate precautions. The area of today’s Mexico was already inhabited in prehistoric times. The most famous peoples who lived there before the arrival of the Spaniards were the Olmecs, Toltecs, Mayans and Aztecs. Due to its long history, Mexico is rich in historical buildings and sights.
The most beautiful vacation spots in Mexico
One thing should be clear to every visitor to Mexico: with such a wide variety of landscapes and cultures, it is impossible to see everything. Tourists are forced to make a choice.
The Yucatan Peninsula
The Sian Ka’an Laguna in Yucatan, Image: Gimas / shutterstock
The peninsula in southeastern Mexico is at the top of the scale of popularity. There are several reasons for this. The city of Cancun has an important international airport, which is also served by flights from Germany . Yucatan is characterized by its tropical climate and beautiful landscapes. It is located in the Caribbean Sea and has some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. The region is nicknamed the Riviera Maya for a reason. Not far from the beach, lush tropical jungle is waiting to be explored. In the beautiful city of Merida, guests feel transported back to the Spanish colonial era. If you don’t just want to lie on the beach or swim, you can explore numerous Mayan ruins in the jungle. Yucatan has the great advantage that many sights are concentrated in a relatively small area. A variety of activities are possible, from beach vacations to diving and surfing on some of the best beaches in the world to adventurous expeditions to long-abandoned Mayan cities that make you feel a bit like Indiana Jones.
Playa del Carmen
The place is one of the most popular destinations in Mexico. Playa del Carmen is located about halfway between Cancun and Tulum. Playa, as the city is called by its approximately 250,000 inhabitants, is particularly popular with German holidaymakers because it can be easily reached by bus via Cancun International Airport. In contrast to other seaside resorts, Playa del Carmen has retained much of its original flair. The beautiful beach, for example, is not lined with huge hotel towers. The place is ideal for travelers who are planning a pure beach vacation and just want to swim and relax. Since Playa del Carmen is a large city, there are also good shopping facilities and many restaurants with Mexican and international cuisine. Most of the bathers in Playa del Carmen are Europeans. Americans prefer Cancun.
Tulum
Fantastic beach in Tulum, Image: andrmoel / shutterstock
Tulum is another well-known beach resort on the southern part of the Riviera Maya. The place is characterized by a lot of sunshine, tropical temperatures. The landscape is as beautiful as a photo in a travel brochure. The sea is azure, the sand is white, and the coast is lined with dark green palm trees. Very close to the modern city of Tulum are the ruins of the Mayan city of the same name, a visit to which is an essential part of a stay. Inland, cenotes (caves with fresh water) are waiting to be explored. If the sea water is too warm for you, you can refresh yourself in the clear and cool fresh water. Dives are also offered under guidance. Not far from Tulum is the Sian Kaan National Park, where you can watch coatis, iguanas, turtles and dolphins.
Cozumel
The Mexican island of Cozumel, Image: lunamarina / shutterstock
If you want to experience a real Caribbean feeling, you should book a stay on the island of Cozumel . It is the easternmost point of Mexico and is one of the dream destinations in the world. The main town, San Miguel de Cozumel, is full of lively life and offers plenty of culture. However, most of the island is hardly populated. There, visitors can relax in untouched nature. The east coast in particular is almost unpopulated. Not only bathers, but also divers and snorkelers feel like they’re in paradise on Cozumel . The coral reefs off the coast are considered by connoisseurs to be among the best diving areas in the world.
The Pacific Coast
This region of Mexico is characterized by its tropical climate. It stretches over several of the 31 Mexican states and is also called the Mexican Riviera. Many of the beaches have strong surf, which makes them very popular with surfers. The weather will be mostly sunny. There are no hurricanes like in the Caribbean. The most famous is probably the seaside resort of Acapulco . Guadalajara, the second largest city in Mexico, is located inland. The region is known for its many historical sights and good cuisine. From this region come such typical Mexican cultural assets as tequila and mariachi music.
Central Mexico
The El Ángel de la Independencia in Mexico City, Image: Vincent St. Thomas / shutterstock
In the center of the region is Mexico City, the capital and largest city of the country as well as the main international airport. Mexico City has a lot to offer in terms of culture. For tourists, the world-famous ruined city of Teotihuacan with its mighty pyramids should be of particular interest. The cities of Puebla and Veracruz with their colonial architecture are also worth seeing. Central Mexico is a highland characterized by vast plains and mighty volcanoes. Mexico City, for example, is more than 2,000 meters above sea level.
Baja California
The elongated narrow peninsula is located in western Mexico and stretches over a distance of more than 1,200 km from the far north in Tijuana, the border city to the USA, to San José del Cabo at the southern tip. Baja California is characterized by a desert climate. The region has retained much of its originality and, with a few exceptions (including Los Cabos in the south), is hardly touched by mass tourism. The beaches are mostly lonely. Every year from December to April, you can watch the impressive natural spectacle of the whale migration there.
If visitors follow a few simple rules of conduct, nothing stands in the way of a relaxing vacation in Mexico. The hotel staff will be happy to advise and give useful tips.
The Algarve is by far the most popular holiday region in Portugal in the German-speaking world. When you think of Portugal, you often think of the picturesque beaches, romantic fishing villages and rugged cliffs. And indeed, the Algarve keeps its promises. The more than 200-kilometre-long coastline attracts tourists with its sandy beaches and fascinating flora and fauna. But athletes are not neglected here either, because the rough sea is known for its great opportunities for surfing and sailing.
The southernmost region of Portugal has everything you need for a special and varied holiday. Above all, this variety is unique. In the port city of Lagos, those interested in culture will find their first port of call. The historic old town is unique and the Fort Ponta da Bandeira is definitely worth a visit. Of course, the capital of the region, Faro, is also exciting for holidaymakers. Here, the influence of the Romans in Portugal is particularly visible. A tour along the historic promenade and a detour to the bishop’s palace Paco Episcopal or the baroque city palace Solar do Capitao-Mor is a must. So after you have arrived, it is time to discover the many great offers of the region.
Surfing and sunbathing in the Algarve
If you are looking for adventure, you will also find it in the Algarve. On the rugged west coast of the Atlantic, surfers will find the perfect waves, almost 365 days a year. The first hotspot is the Praia de Odeceixe Mar near the small village of Odeceixe. Located near a nature reserve, surfers will find the best conditions here. A little further south is the popular beach of Carrapateira. Especially in the early morning hours, the panorama is fantastic.
For sun worshippers, there are fantastic beaches to discover along the entire south coast. No matter in which direction, you can hardly miss the many hidden bays and beaches. For example, the bay of Praia da Marinha and Praia do Tonel are particularly beautiful. One of the most famous and beautiful beaches is Praia da Marinha near Caramujeira. Once you’ve been here, you’ll have a hard time being impressed by other beaches. In contrast to other coastal regions, the Algarve manages to appear largely untouched and wild despite an enormous amount of tourism.
Fantastic nature and exciting sights
Cabo de São Vicente, Image: DaLiu / shutterstock
The most beautiful sights of the Algarve are actually of natural origin. Especially the many unique caves and grottoes are fascinating to discover. The most visited place in the region is Cape Cabo de São Vicente, with its small lighthouse in the middle of the cliffs. The cape is the southwesternmost point of the European continent and was considered the end of the world for people for a long time. Also highly recommended is the cave of Benagil.
But the Algarve is also not stingy with man-made sights. The city of Sagres, for example, offers plenty of room to lose track of time, with a historic fortress and its famous port. The cities of Lagos, Odeceixe and Aljezur should also be on the agenda of every visitor. This is where Portugal’s long history becomes visible. For those interested in architecture, the Algarve has many sights such as small and large churches and picturesque old towns. Especially in Lagos there are many sights such as the church of Santa Maria, a famous fortress and a spectacular zoo for the little ones. In the bone chapel of Faro, on the other hand, it gets morbid, because here over 1200 real skulls have been built into a 24 square meter chapel.
The Algarve – one of the most beautiful regions in Europe
The Algarve is one of the most popular destinations in Europe for a reason. Sun, great sandy beaches, the wild Atlantic Ocean or historic old towns – the region offers the right activity for every holidaymaker. Surfers ride along the west coast in search of the perfect wave, while families with children ride from one beach to another, soaking up the sun and discovering regional delicacies.
In the hinterland of the Algarve, an almost untouched nature is waiting to be discovered. The enormous variety and flora and fauna amaze everyone.
The Algarve is not particularly large: Around 440,000 inhabitants live on just under 5,000 square kilometres (for comparison, North Rhine-Westphalia has over 34,000 square kilometres). All the more astonishing how much variety can be found in such a small area. And that’s what makes the Algarve so special: endless different experiences in such a small space offer the opportunity to experience a practically new holiday every day – and practically on your doorstep.
The most beautiful sights in the Algarve
1. LagosThe port town of Lagos, Image: Steve Photography / shutterstock
The picturesque harbour town of Lagos has numerous fabulous hotspots in store, especially for visitors interested in history: The Castelo Dos Governadores, built by the Moors, is probably the most impressive part of the old city walls. The church Igreja de Santo Antonio with its sensational baroque interior, museums, the first slave market in Europe and port facilities are among the most important sights of Lagos. They are reminiscent of the time when Portugal was still an important royal shipping power and seafarers began their famous circumnavigations westwards from Lagos in the 15th century. And for a relaxing beach stay, the much-praised Praia de Dona Ana, surrounded by spectacular orange cliffs, offers a magical ambience for an unforgettable break.
2. Ponta da PiedadePonta da Piedade in Portugal, Image: artem evdokimov / shutterstock
Undoubtedly, one of the most beautiful natural highlights of the Algarve is located about 2.5 km south of Lagos. The famous Ponta Da Piedade rock structure on the coast offers a stunning sight with its colorful sandstone cliffs. The bizarre rock formations in the rocky Algarve form an idyllic protective bay with crystal clear turquoise waters that are perfect for swimming, diving and paddling.
3. Algar de BenagilAlgar de Benadil, Image: Benny Marty / shuttersto
An absolute must on the journey through the Algarve is the fascinating Benagil Cave with its dome-shaped dome open to the sky, a much visited hotspot on the beach Praia de Benagil near the coastal town of Portimao. In principle, access to the cave is only possible from the sea, so swimming or paddling is the order of the day to experience one of the truly overwhelming natural highlights on the Portuguese coast up close.
4. Hiking routes Discover the fabulous hiking routes through the picturesque landscapes of the Algarve! The impressive Vilamoura Natural Trail, west of Faro, passes through the protected Vilamoura Environmental Park. On a route of 5 km, nature lovers can discover the unique biodiversity of the region and observe rare birds such as ospreys, black storks or little terns. Enjoy a monumental coastal landscape along the cliff hiking trails from Senhora Da Rocha to Praia Da Marinha, exploring beautiful bays, small coastal settlements and fascinating flora and fauna! The view over the wide sea is simply breathtaking!
5. Praia da Marinha Praia da Marinha, Image: Luis_Mendes / shutterstock
At the end of this hiking tour and not far from the spectacular Benagil Cave, the world-famous Praia Da Marinha beach awaits you. Here, visitors can relax on the golden sandy beach and explore a magical underwater world while swimming and diving in the incredibly clear waters. The double sandstone rock arches at the western end of the beach stretch gallantly over the sea water, offering an exquisite sight and giving this part of the coastal landscape an unparalleled rugged charm.
6. Silves and the Castelo de Silves The interior of the Algarve introduces visitors to the typical southern Portuguese flair of this unique region. To the north and not far from Praia de Marinha, the medieval fortress Castelo de Silves towers over the town of Silves with its brick-red walls and towers. From the sandstone Moorish castle, various rulers ruled over the former independent small kingdom of Silves in the Middle Ages. The picturesque town attracts visitors from near and far with its authentic Algarve atmosphere and is definitely worth a visit.
7. FaroFaro, capital of the Algarve, Image: Robin Runck / shutterstock
Directly at the southernmost tip of the country is the capital of the Algarve, the famous port city of Faro. Surrounded by ancient Roman city walls, the old town is a real magnet and delights tourists with such exquisite buildings as the Bishop’s Palace, the City Hall and fascinating churches. A leisurely walk through the narrow winding streets, past colourful shops and souvenir shops along the pedestrian zone, allows visitors to experience the cosmopolitan flair of this traditional vibrant city and to enjoy and relax in the traditional taverns or restaurants typical of the country.
The port area of Faro is particularly interesting and surrounded by a protected lagoon. It is also home to the famous Museo Maritimo. Cape Cabo de Santa Maria is the southernmost point of Portugal and is located on the offshore island of Ilha da Barreta, a nature reserve of the Parque Natural da Ria Formosa. These and other small islands are easily accessible from Faro.
8. Olhão A visit to the old town of Olhão, which is characterized by an oriental-African flair, reveals the numerous architectural peculiarities of the place, which reflect a significant Arab influence. The hustle and bustle of the fish market exerts a magical appeal on tourists and forms a fantastic backdrop for unique photographs and impressions that immortalize the vital dynamism, intrinsic mood and traditional atmosphere of these authentic port and street scenes of Olhão.
9. TaviraRomanesque bridge in Tavira, Image: anyaivanova / shutterstock
Tavira, the exclusive coastal town in the east of the Algarve, is surrounded by enchanting sandy beaches and is famous for its very own charm. The popular holiday destination is a place steeped in history, where trade and fishing once flourished, and whose magnificent architectural highlights, churches, squares and exquisite buildings with magnificent facades bear witness to a former era of economic prosperity and prosperity.
10. Dolphins and seabirds: exciting observation tours The perfect highlight on any Algarve trip is a boat trip of several hours past the island of Ria Formosa and out into the Atlantic Ocean to make exciting discoveries in search of dolphins and whales, sea turtles and seabirds. On board an official observation vessel and accompanied by an experienced naturalist guide, nature-loving tourists have the unique opportunity to get to know the marine habitat of these fascinating marine creatures.
Water parks in the Algarve In the spectacular water parks “Slide & Splash” as well as “Aqualand” and “Aqua Show”, families with children get their money’s worth. Water slides, rapids, inflatable boat slides and other great pool attractions as well as rides provide fun, exciting experiences and fantastic adventures that will delight young and old!
Holidays in Oman? In Salalah? Anyone who plays with this idea is certainly still one of the exotics among the common Western tourists. And this despite the fact that Oman, and especially the city of Salalah in the southwest of the Sultanate, has Caribbean-like beaches, excellent diving spots, natural wonders between palm trees and breathtaking UNESCO World Heritage Sites to offer. If you want to travel to Salalah, you can fly directly to the former capital of Oman, which has a population of about 375,000. In addition to a passport, a visa is required for entry, which can also be applied for online.
Salalah – The best time to travel for sea, beach and diving
Salalah is great for a beach holiday. If you are planning one, you can escape the German dirty winter here, because the best time to travel is between the months of November and March. Although temperatures are summery all year round, ranging from 25 to 40 degrees, the southern part of the Sultanate, where Salalah is located, can be hit by heavy rainfall from June to September. Then it is rainy season in this part of the country and beach holidays can fall through completely under certain circumstances.
The most beautiful beaches and diving areas
Salalah is located in the middle of the Indian Ocean. Many hotels here have their own sections of beach, each of which is only a few steps away from the hotel. All these beaches are equipped with an excellent infrastructure, ranging from sunbed rentals to bars, restaurants, toilets and playgrounds, as well as sports facilities of all kinds. Guests can play volleyball, take a surfing or sailing course or go snorkelling. One of the most popular beaches in the city area is Al Haffa Beach. The almost white sandy beach, surrounded by tall palm trees in front of turquoise blue water, looks like something out of a picture book. The nearby beaches are usually relatively busy, as locals also relax here.
If you like it quieter, choose the bays of Fazayah, which are about 80 kilometers west of Salalah and can be easily reached by rental car. Here you can swim intimately between bizarrely designed rock formations or in front of a high cliff. Diving enthusiasts are spoilt for choice in and around Salalah, as it is teeming with breathtakingly beautiful coral reefs. There are diving schools on every corner that organize dives and give courses. Particularly beautiful dive sites are Eagle Bay and Shaab Ashra Reef. Both are located 70 kilometers from Salalah, near the city of Mirbat. In addition to a colourful underwater world of fish and plants, you can also explore enchanted-looking fish wrecks here.
Welcome to Salalah, the city of the frankincense trade
If you want to immerse yourself in the local culture in addition to relaxation and sporting activity on the beach, you can dedicate yourself to the incense trade. Salalah stands in a centuries-old tradition in this regard and is still considered the global center of the frankincense trade today. At the Al-Husn Souk, you can look over the shoulders of the incense burners. The ancient frankincense port of Al-Baleed on the eastern edge of the city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is not a functioning port, but an archaeological excavation site that can be visited. Right next door, the Museum of the Frankincense Land beckons, which not only provides information about the trading history of the valuable commodity, but also provides a small overview of the history of Oman. You should also not miss a visit to the Sultan Qaboos Mosque. Although it is not antique, it dates from the 21st century, but it looks powerful and is richly decorated and designed. Finally, you can take a look at the Sultan’s Palace, which can be visited from the outside.
And Salalah is also a true paradise for bird lovers. Guided birdwatching tours are offered everywhere, allowing visitors to get up close and personal with cormorants, colourful flamingos, collared parakeets and Bonelli eagles. However, the bird species mentioned are only a few examples of birds that can be admired around the city, which is located on the flight path of many European species in and out of their winter quarters.
Then it’s on to the cute sea creatures that cavort around Salalah. The starting point is the port of Salalah, from where dolphin safaris with excursion boats depart. The organizers know exactly where dolphins or humpback and blue whales like to stay and guide their guests directly there.
Wadi Darbat, the desert oasis
Sultan Qaboos Mosque in Salalah, Image: Patrik Dietrich / shutterstock
An excellent excursion destination into nature is Wadi Darbat. The village of the same name is located just under 60 kilometers from Salalah and is best reached by rental car. There are various hiking trails on site, which lead through a barren desert landscape or a lush green oasis. Depending on whether the excursion is made during the rainy or dry season. The landscape around Wadi Dabat is always beautiful. In addition, cave paintings can be visited and desert tours on dromedaries can be undertaken. The highlight of the desert oasis are several waterfalls that appear out of nowhere in the middle of the desert.
The coastal city of Mirbat
Another popular destination is the city of Mirbat, 75 kilometers from Salalah. Mirbat is a mixture of a traditional fishing village and a modern trading place. In the harbour you can see the typical dhow boats, old fishing boats. There you can still watch the fishermen doing handicrafts-oriented work. You can watch how they pull the fish out of the nets and sort them and then mend the nets and hang them up to dry.
With around 1.2 million inhabitants, Mombasa is a true metropolis and, after the capital Nairobi, the second largest city in Kenya. Many tourists from abroad visit Kenya to experience exciting safaris and get up close and personal with exotic wildlife. Safaris can of course also be undertaken from Mombasa. In addition, the city on the Indian Ocean is also ideal for a fantastic beach holiday. After all, the city is largely located on Mombasa Island. This is an island enclosed by the mainland on three sides with an area of 14 square kilometers. For example, Mombasa’s old town is located here, while some more modern districts are located on the mainland. All around there are numerous city beaches with pristine white sand.
Tips on how to get there and the best time to visit Mombasa
Fort Jesus – medieval fortress in Mombasa, Kenya, Image: kavram / shutterstock
Mombasa is not served directly from Germany , usually a stopover is necessary. Nevertheless, the connections are good and frequent. The airport is about half an hour by car from downtown Mombasa. In addition to a passport, tourists also need a visa to enter the country, which can be applied for online before departure. If you would like to spend a beach holiday in Mombasa, it is best to travel between mid-December and mid-March. Because then it is the dry season and it hardly rains.
Temperatures are relatively constant around 30 degrees throughout the year. From the end of March to mid-June it is correspondingly warm, but then it is rainy season in and around Mombasa. If you are interested in a safari, Mombasa is preferably visited between June and October. At this time, most of the different wild animals can be admired, because this is the phase of the regular animal migration in Kenya.
Mombasa’s most beautiful beaches
Fantastic beach in Mombasa, Image: Plun Lix / shutterstock
If you want to go to the beach in Mombasa, you are spoilt for choice. At the foothills of the inner city area, one beach section connects to the next. There are a lot of hotels here that operate their own beaches. However, most of the beaches are open to the public. Mombasa Beach, for example, is very pretty, whose white sandy beach is lined with tall palm trees. The infrastructure here is excellent and offers everything you need for a beach holiday: bars and beach cafés, restaurants, sun loungers and sports facilities.
Mombasa beach is just a few steps away from the old town. 35 kilometers south of the city is Diani Beach. It is considered one of the absolute dream beaches on the Indian Ocean. Diani Beach is no less than 25 kilometres long and therefore offers something for every type of beach. There are busy, but also very lonely beach sections. Diani Beach is even very interesting for divers, because there are some reefs off the beach where the colorful underwater world of Kenya can be discovered. In addition, the reefs ensure that the waves at Diani Beach hit very gently. They also keep sharks away and thus ensure safe bathing pleasure.
A walk through Mombasa
Mombasa’s old town looks winding and enchanted and the best way to go on foot is to go on a sightseeing tour through the narrow old town streets. The Portuguese heritage of the city becomes obvious right away. Numerous buildings have been built here in the Portuguese style. But Arab and Asian traders have also left their mark on the former port and trading metropolis. For example, there is a wholesale market where the spice and food traders line up colourful stalls. The crowd looks like an Arabic souk. You should also definitely visit the fortress Fort Jesus, which was built here in 1593 by the Portuguese. The building, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, stands directly on the Indian Ocean. The fortress is now partially destroyed, but still houses a museum that provides information about Mombasa’s history as a trading center. The Pembe Za Ndovu is considered a landmark of Mombasa. It is an outdoor sculpture that shows four elephant tusks tilting towards each other. The tusks are not real, but made of aluminum and form the gateway to the old town.
Experience the wild wildlife of Africa
For animal lovers, there are a variety of opportunities in and around Mombasa to experience a wide variety of animal species in the wild, or at least under natural living conditions. Just outside the city gates of Mombasa is Haller Park. Here, visitors can walk independently through forests and palm avenues on designated hiking trails. Hippos, zebras or giraffes and 160 different bird species can be encountered, including pelicans. Just a few kilometers away is the Mombasa Marine National Reserve, an underwater park. Here, you can primarily see fish and sea birds above the water surface.
The Mamba Village is a snake and crocodile farm where you can get close to these species under the supervision of animal keepers. If you want to go on a real safari with all the wildlife that the African continent is known for, you can go 180 kilometers from Mombasa in the Tsavo East National Park. Elephants, lions, buffaloes or giraffes, for example, cavort here. Halfway here, it is recommended to make a stopover in the Shimba Hills Reserve, which is 50 kilometers from Mombasa. The number of different animal species is not quite as wide as in Tsavo East National Park. On the other hand, the Shimba Hills Reserve captivates with scenic charms.
Almost circular, furrowed from the core of gorges, the third smallest island of the Canary Islands lies in the Atlantic Ocean and attracts with its untouched nature. Banana plantations, palm groves, a simple rural way of life and the 1970s of the hippies, who once discovered the archipelago for themselves, still characterize the Canary Island of La Gomera today.
The authenticity, naturalness and authenticity of the island is remarkable. Sometimes La Gomera can also be quite kitschy. At the latest when a dolphin jumps out of the Atlantic in a perfect arc or the glowing sun ball dives into the sea and glides smoothly back into the water. The island of Gomera, located off the northwest African coast, is of volcanic origin and exceptionally beautiful.
Simply wonderful, La Gomera. Image: ravelinerin / Pixabay
La Gomera is about 10 million years old. The island keeps many secrets, arouses curiosity and also raises some questions: Is there really an organ in the sea? How dangerous is a jump into the water? Who is lurking behind the stone nests? And what exactly is the Salto del Pastor? It is worth learning a lot more about La Gomera.
Fog-shrouded highlands, rainy north, barren and dry south – La Gomera combines very different climate zones in a very small area. Everything is close together here. While sun worshippers enjoy a wonderful beach feeling, weatherproof hikers walk only a few kilometers further through a mysterious cloud forest. One thing is certain: Most of the island’s highlights reveal themselves in their diverse and unique nature.
The north of La Gomera – not only a hit for hikers
The rich north can do more than just rain. It attracts visitors with pretty mansions, old churches and traditional handicrafts. First, hikers and adventure seekers penetrate the ancient laurel forest. Enchanted, it unfolds its entire beauty. Every now and then it can get really creepy: Suddenly gusts of wind howl, the damp humus soil unfolds a musty smell, and in addition, the creaking branches of the mighty treetops sink into the ghostly field of fog.
“Isla Magica” is the name given to the notorious mixed forest in the Garajonay National Park. Locals even suspect that this is a meeting place for the witches. Like an oasis, the forest stretches up to 1500 meters above sea level in a wild, torn mountain landscape.
The Gedro Valley is the centre of the national park. Here flows a bubbling stream, entwined with ivy. Over small wooden bridges, past waterfalls, you soon reach a clearing. Here lies a picturesque enchanted chapel.
But that’s not all. Agulo is the capital of the smallest municipality of the same name. Probably the most beautiful village on the island is presented on a 200-metre-high rock dome above the sea. From here, visitors can enjoy an overwhelming view of the neighbouring island of Tenerife. The centre of Agulo is also well worth seeing.
Los Órganos is no less exciting with a natural wonder located in the cliffs of the northwest. More on that later.
The south of Gomera – picturesque harbours and a sea of palm trees in eternal spring
Together with the ferry port, the city of San Sebastián forms the center of the southeast coast of La Gomera. In the immediate vicinity of the harbour there are many historical buildings from the time of the conquest. San Sebastián is the main town of the island and was also Columbus’ last stop before the sea voyage across the Atlantic.
In the church “La Asunción” there are many reminders of it. This is also the case in the “Torre del Conde”, the count’s tower from the 16th century. Also worth seeing is the old customs house, which was also used as a prison for a time, as well as “Casa Bencom”, the “Museum of Stones”. Here visitors learn all kinds of interesting facts about the origin of the island.
The small Bergorf Arure is located on the edge of a wonderful valley. Arure is the first town above the Valle Gran Rey. Traditional stone houses adorn the old settlement, which is located at an altitude of 825 meters in a picturesque landscape. People like to linger here. The restaurant “El Jape” spoils visitors with regional delicacies.
In the valley of the “Great King” – “Valley Gran Rey” – time seems to have stood still. At the edge of the world, you can enjoy and relax. Nothing is built up here, no hustle and bustle, here and there a few people sit around on the beach. The former hippie paradise is charming, impresses in a great location and shows itself in many places as alternative. White houses nestle against the terraced mountain slopes. The port district of Vueltas forms the tourist center of this region with La Puntilla, La Playa and La Calera.
La Gomera and the most beautiful beaches
Playa de Santiago is the island’s sun-drenched holiday centre with beautiful beaches.
The “Valle Gran Rey”, which is well developed for tourism, offers a special variety of beaches. Just behind the harbour pier is the sandy beach Playa de Vueltas. The beach is particularly popular with families and children due to its sheltered location from the treacherous surf.
Bathing like in a small pool – Babybeach, the mini beach near La Puntilla, offers even more protection. Rocks and stones form a kind of lagoon here and allow carefree bathing fun.
Starting at the headland of Puntilla, the longest beach of La Gomera finally stretches out. The shallow shores and the rather calm sea are bustling with tourists and locals.
And what about the organ? Of course, our questions do not remain unanswered:
In fact, it exists, the organ in the sea: Los Órganos is a church organ carved into the rock. This wonder of nature can only be reached by sea. Prismatic basalt columns line up on an 80-metre-high and 200-metre-wide rock face. The exposed basalt columns look like pipes of a huge organ. A jewel of nature, whose incredible beauty regularly takes visitors’ breath away.
Jumping into the sea is actually not entirely safe in some places. Especially where the strong current and sharp rocks make the jump a dangerous undertaking. There are hardly any bathing spots in the north of the island – the suction is too unpredictable, the waves too violent. On the other hand, you can enjoy exuberant bathing fun on the southern half of Gomera. Here you can play it safe: San Sebastián, Playa de Santiago and Valle Gran Rey.
What are the stone nests all about? It also remains a mystery for long-time Gomera travelers: The beach at Playa de Inglés seems to come and go as it pleases. Regardless of the tide and season – black gravel remains. When the rock exceeds the size of the gravel, the sun worshippers build large stone nests. In this way, they protect themselves from the wind and prying eyes.
The Salto del Pastor was once a special technique used by goatherds to make it easier to move on steep terrain. The shepherd’s leap was created. For this you need a wooden pole (astia) up to 3.50 meters long with a metal tip on top. This allowed the shepherds to overcome steep slopes, terraces, deep ditches and the ascent without any problems. Today, the Salto del Pastor on La Gomera is a popular leisure sport.
Sights and experiences on La Gomera”: From cloud forest to beach paradise
The island of La Gomera is characterized above all by its breathtaking nature and its numerous small beaches. If you are on holiday on the island, you should definitely bring sturdy shoes. After all, there is a lot to discover here on countless long and short hiking trails.
Island capital San Sebastian de La Gomera: Under the sign of Christopher Columbus
San Sebastian, the island’s capital of La Gomera, Image: Mikadun / shutterstock
If you are looking for sights, you will find them in the island’s capital San Sebastian de La Gomera in the east of the island. The small town of 9,000 inhabitants is mainly dedicated to the circumnavigator Christopher Columbus, who stopped here again and again on his voyages to America. In the Casa Colón Roundhouse, you can learn a lot about the explorer and his time on the island. La Casa de la Aguada also has a permanent exhibition on the discovery of America. You should also pay a visit to the Torre del Conde from the 15th century, which is still very well preserved. The impressive Church of the Resurrection Iglesia de la Asunción with its many small and large sacred works of art is always worth a visit. A leisurely stroll through the many narrow streets of the historic old town and a coffee in one of the numerous cosy cafés should also not be missed.
Los Organos Natural Monument and Garajonay Cloud Forest
If you are traveling in the north of La Gomera, you should definitely make a detour to the huge natural monument Los Organos on the north coast. The 175-metre-wide and 80-metre-high rock formation is probably the most famous sight and is also the island’s landmark. The Garajonay cloud forest in the interior of the island, which is about 2,000 years old, also attracts thousands of tourists and locals every year. As one of the oldest cloud laurel forests in the world, it is one of the most popular attractions on the entire island.
Due to the constant fog rain, a species-rich flora and fauna with 1000 different animal and almost 500 plant species has developed on the 4,000-hectare area. Among other things, green ferns up to two meters high can be found here. In addition, countless bird species, reptiles and amphibians live in the incredibly exciting national park. Instead, there are very few mammals here. In addition to animal and plant fans, hikers also get their money’s worth in the region. The national park, which is mainly characterized by the Canary Island jungle, has been a UNESCO natural heritage site since 1986 and is also a huge European bird sanctuary, is a real natural paradise for all visitors. The entire area is characterized by countless hiking trails with different levels of difficulty, making it a real paradise for hikers.
Original villages in the north, wide beaches in the south
View of the village of Agulo, Image: Mikadun / shutterstock
In general, the north side of the island is just as popular with hikers and climbers as it is with young and old nature lovers. If you are looking for tranquil holiday resorts away from the big tourist crowds, this is also the place for you. In Agulo, the smallest municipality on the island, as well as in the small village of Playa de Alojera, you can get to know the original La Gomera with its many narrow streets and small houses. A popular starting point for hikes is also the village of Vallehermoso. Nearby is the Castillo del Mar, an elaborately restored former loading station for bananas, a real eye-catcher that can also be found in many holiday photos.
Not far away is the settlement of Hermigua, which is best known as the largest banana-growing area on the island. And if you’re already out and about here, you shouldn’t miss the El Chorro waterfall. Those seeking relaxation and beach holidaymakers are in the right place in the south of La Gomera in Playa de Santiago. The region around the southernmost town of the island, which also has a small harbour, is characterised above all by its sunny location and its numerous beaches. The long and impressive waterfront is home to numerous bars, restaurants and clubs. In the summer months, it is really busy here, especially in the evening and night hours – as well as in the bungalow village Jardin Tecina, which is located in the east of Playa de Santiago.
Also very popular with tourists and locals is the Valle Gran Rey in the far west of La Gomera. Due to the extremely mild climate, in addition to the many beautiful sandy beaches, the most popular tourist center of the island with numerous water sports and a lively nightlife has developed here in recent decades – including in the small towns of La Puntilla and La Playa
The SSS Islands are a group of three islands in the Lesser Antilles in the Caribbean. They belong to the territory of the Netherlands and are among the “Leeward Islands” in the Caribbean.
The two islands of Sint Eustatius and Saba have the status of a “Special Municipality of the Country of the Netherlands”. In addition, there is the Dutch part of the island of St. Martin: Sint Maarten is an autonomous country within the Kingdom of the Netherlands.
On the island of Sint Eustatius live about 3142 inhabitants on an area of 21 km².
The island has been a Dutch colony since 1816. Since 10 October 2010, the island has been part of the Netherlands as a “Special Municipality”.
In the 18th century, the island was very prosperous through trade. However, the end of the slave trade, the supremacy of the now independent USA in transatlantic trade and the French occupation of Sint Eustatius in 1795 brought the economic heyday of the island to an end.
The official language is Dutch, but the English language dominates everyday life. As an overseas territory, the island is not only part of the European Union. Therefore, the currency is not the euro, but the US dollar. The capital of the island is Oranjestad.
The island owes its formation to volcanic activity. The almost 600m high volcano “The Quill” is now a dormant stratovolcano. Nevertheless, the volcano is still active today, as evidenced by temperature measurements in the groundwater of the volcano. Its crater attracts many tourists.
Sint Eustatius has tropical temperatures. Hurricanes are possible in the months of August to October.
The island has an airport and a port for ferries. Cruise ships cannot call at the port. Your guests will be taken to the island by tender boats. Worth seeing are the Quill/Boven National Park, the Fort de Windt and the St Eustatius Historical Foundation Museum.
Saba
A picturesque village on Saba, Image: Erika Bisbocci / shutterstock
The island of “Saba” is also a special municipality of the country of the Netherlands. The floor area of Saba is only 13 km². As of January 2021, 1918 inhabitants were registered on the island.
The capital of Saba is “The Bottom”. As in Sint Eustatius, Dutch is the official language in Saba. Everyday life is dominated by the English language. The currency is the US dollar.
Saba has no natural beaches. The island is surrounded by cliffs. Geologically, Saba is one of the young islands. It was formed by volcanic activity during the last 500,000 years. The volcano “Mount Scenery” occupies large parts of the island’s area. It is 877 meters high and is one of the dormant volcanoes. The last eruption is dated to 1640. Curiously, the volcano is the highest elevation in the entire Kingdom of the Netherlands.
Climatically, Saba is also one of the tropics. Cool trade winds from the northeast make the temperatures a little more bearable.
In colonial times, the rainforest was completely cut down. Today, however, there is again a very diverse secondary rainforest on the island, through which numerous hiking trails lead. Since there are no poisonous or dangerous animals on Saba, a hike through the rainforest is highly recommended.
However, you have to expect many mosquitoes, especially in the rainy season.
A hiking trail also leads through the rainforest to the summit of Mount Scenery.
Divers will find good conditions in the sea off Saba. The underwater world is protected by strict regulations and laws.
900 steep rock steps lead from the capital down the cliffs to Ladder Bay. Until the 2nd half of the 20th century, the island could only be entered via this arduous path. All goods and commodities also had to be transported on this route. Since 1960, Saba has had a small airport with an extremely short runway. A longer runway was not possible, as the airport was already being built on the only possible level of the island.
The most important economic sector today is tourism. Saba is very popular with divers. The island even has 4 decompression chambers for exchange accidents.
Sint Maarten
Cupecoy Beach on Sint Marteen, Image: Steve Heap / shutterstock
Sint Maarten is the southern part of the Caribbean island of St. Martin. The northern part belongs to France. It is an autonomous country that belongs to the Netherlands. Accordingly, the Dutch King Willem-Alexander is also the head of state of Sint Maarten. About 40,614 people live on an area of 34km².
A good 65% of the population are Dutch. They are descendants of Dutch settlers. Almost 75% of the population belong to the Christian faith. The capital of Sint Maarten is Philipsburg. The official languages are English and Dutch.
Sint Maarten is a tax haven. The companies that are registered on the island but do not do business in the Dutch part do not have to pay tax. VAT is only 5%.
Sint Maarten is often visited by cruise ships. The free port allows guests to shop tax- and duty-free. They therefore like to use their stay in Sint Maarten to buy tobacco products and spirits at low prices.
Sint Maarten is also famous for its airport. The runway is located directly on the beach and the planes fly directly over the heads of the bathers.
For example, it is possible to stand directly under an aircraft and photograph it from below. This is not entirely without danger, and so there are also warnings on the section of beach that is open to tourists.
