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Corona blues – With these tips and tricks you can drive away melancholy

PatrickJullien
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Corona blues – With these tips and tricks you can drive away melancholy

The corona pandemic has been keeping us on our toes for more than a year. Curfews, closures and isolations are the order of the day. The home office is considered an unwritten law for the majority of the population and confines people even more to their own four walls. These are now increasingly losing their function as a place of refuge and are increasingly turning out to be personal prisons. Unfortunately, this situation will continue for a few more months. With the right mindset and activities, you can still make everyday life pleasant. In the following article, we will show you how to drive the gloomy thoughts out of your head!

Every year again: Corona is still present in 2021

The year 2020 was marked by fear and the hope of being able to resume normal life the following year. In 2021, it is now becoming clear that this will not be the case. Birthday parties, public events and long-distance travel are also cancelled this year. Especially those who like to travel suffer greatly from the regulations. If the last vacation had to be postponed indefinitely, there is currently no longer any question of spending a vacation abroad.

How to get your mind off things

Despite the pulsating pandemic, you should not hang your head. An end is in sight and we have already survived the worst. While you are longing for a mask-free time and absolute freedom and self-determination, you can make the wait easier for yourself with some tips and tricks.

Relive old memories

Your motivation to try out new hobbies is coming to an end, you’re fed up with sports and DIYs are just not your thing? How about rummaging through dusty boxes and chests and immortalizing the treasures you find for future generations? Because many households still own VHS cassettes, floppy disks or records that cannot be played back with our modern devices. Videos from childhood days, old holiday memories and moments from times long past can be made ready for use again with just a few tools and movements. For example, there is software for digitizing VHS cassettes. The video clips can be transferred to DVD with the program or saved as a video file in the computer. All that is necessary are:

  1. Video capture device, such as a USB device, TV tuner, or capture card
  2. VHS Video Recorder
  3. Analog Cables

Plan your next long-distance trip

Travelling with Corona
Traveling with Corona, Image: Viacheslav Lopatin / shutterstock

You can also use the excess time to find your next destination. Go in search of hidden places and cities that are away from the typical tourist strongholds. With the help of travel guides, specialized websites and travel blogs, you can already work out a round trip or find true insider tips. In addition, the advantages of Corona must also be seen! Due to the pandemic, expenses for leisure activities, restaurant visits and vacations have been eliminated for over a year. As a result, many people were able to accumulate a small fortune. These savings can be invested in an exceptionally long and spectacular journey. Have you ever wanted to fly over New York by helicopter or swim with dolphins? The upcoming trip is your opportunity to turn this dream into reality.

Bringing paradise into your own home

It is also possible to get into the holiday mood within your own four walls. Give your bathroom a maritime flair or bring exotic cultures directly into your own living room. There is no need to start major renovations or replace the furniture. With small changes, a big impact can be achieved!

With a new wall colour, for example, you can set a colour accent and influence the basic mood of the room. Move the furniture around and think about how you could still use the furnishings. For example, a dessert table and some cushions can suddenly become a small seat. Decoration can also make a decisive contribution to the ambience. Sort out and replace the items that have been obsolete a long time ago. Above all, decorative items with unusual colours and patterns, tropical plants and furnishings from foreign cultures can conjure up a foreign paradise from the well-known room. In addition, redecorating passes the time and is hellishly fun!

 

Holidays in the Pyrenees

PatrickJullien
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Holidays in the Pyrenees

The Pyrenees are a mountain range that forms a natural barrier between the countries of France and Spain, as well as between the Iberian Peninsula and the rest of Europe. They are located in the southwest of Europe and are one of the most famous mountains on the continent. It is said that the name of the mountain range comes from Pyrene, a princess in Greek mythology who was loved by Hercules. For holidaymakers, the Pyrenees offer a diverse and exciting landscape with picturesque mountain villages, monasteries and unique nature.

Peculiarities of the Pyrenees

The mountain range, which is about 491 km long from west to east, stretches from the Cantabrian Sea to the Mediterranean Sea. They are usually divided into the French Pyrenees, which include the Eastern Pyrenees, the High Pyrenees and the Atlantic Pyrenees, and the Spanish Pyrenees, which extend to Catalonia, Navarre, Aragon and the Basque Country.

yellow train, Pyrenees
Explore the Pyrenees in a relaxed manner with the yellow train, Image: Leonid Andronov / shutterstock

Physiographically, the mountains are divided into three sections: East, Central and West. In the Eastern Pyrenees, the altitude is average, while the central section is represented by the highest peaks, including Pico Aneto at 3,404 meters. The entire mountain range is home to more than 50 peaks over 3,000 meters. As for the climate, it is dry and cold in the Central Pyrenees; in the Eastern Pyrenees, summers tend to be hot, while the western part is more affected by humid air.

In the mountains, tourists will find rocky slopes, impressive gorges and karst plains. There are a variety of caves, underground rivers and hot springs that were already used as thermal baths by the Romans. In addition, the Pyrenees are home to many small villages, fantastic castles and ruins of former fortresses to discover, offering magical history and impressive views over the town. The Pyrenees are one of the most diverse mountain ranges in the world, thanks to the many differences in altitude between the individual sections.

It is home to more than 4,500 species of plants, including the beautiful snow flower, which can be found at very high altitudes, and unique fir, pine and chestnut forests. In the valleys there are cork oaks, fig trees and aromatic plants such as lavender and thyme, which spread typical Mediterranean flair. The fauna is represented by brown bears, deer, wild boars and a variety of birds such as the kestrel or the bearded vulture and offers nature lovers an exciting spectacle.

Holiday opportunities

In the Pyrenees you can enjoy a relaxing holiday in both the cold and warm seasons. During the summer, the richness of the landscape is truly amazing. If you are a fan of outdoor activities, it is a perfect place for hiking enthusiasts thanks to the numerous hiking trails. The well-known long-distance hiking trail Grande Randonnée takes you on over 850 km through the French Pyrenees along picturesque villages with flowering herbs and beautiful panoramic views.

Walking through several villages, an impressive cultural and architectural heritage awaits you, where you can learn more about the way of life in the Pyrenees while spending the night in the hostel and exchanging ideas with the locals. Rafting, canoeing or simply walking along the rivers are also popular activities.

Although you can go on holiday at any time of the year, winter is also a pleasant season for a holiday. Especially if you are a lover of snow sports. One of the most popular sports is undoubtedly skiing and in the Alto Aragon region alone there are more than 138 km spread over eight different areas to practice it. And if you’re looking for even more adrenaline, you can enjoy a paragliding trip over a snowy landscape.

On the other hand, if you want a unique experience, you can experience dog sledding, ice diving, hot water baths and caves. In the cold months, the atmosphere in the surrounding villages is quite lively, especially on weekends, and activities are offered in the bars and restaurants of a cultural and gastronomic nature. Don’t forget to try their most famous dish, Migas al pastor.

Tourist attractions

Pic du Midi de Bigorre, Pyrenees
Sunset on the Pic du Midi de Bigorre, Image: Anibal Trejo / shutterstock

The Pic du Midi de Bigorre mountain is known by locals and foreigners alike and can be reached by cable car from La Mongie. At the top at 2877 meters there is a planetarium, a museum about astronomy and the history of the creation of the Pic du Midi, a traditional high-altitude restaurant and a souvenir shop.

On the north side, from the Sky Bridge, you can observe the flat part of the Occitanie region with its green meadows and picturesque villages via a metal walkway hanging into the void. Watching the sunset over the mountain range, as well as the stars in the night sky on the French side of the Pyrenees, is an extraordinary visual experience. In the southwest of France, in the Midi-Pyrénées region, lies the beautiful city of Lourdes, which makes every walk worthwhile with its alleys, gallery houses and cobblestone streets. Here you will find the listed castle of Lourdes, from which you can enjoy an exceptional view of the city and the Pyrenees.

Just three kilometres away is the lake of Lourdes, where you can picnic, fish or hike. Also in the south-west of France, in the Hautes-Pyrénées Midi-Pyrenees department, on the border with Spain , lies the unique town of Cirque de Gavarnie, which consists of a rocky colosseum and is surrounded by impressive peaks. The Great Waterfall also falls down there. It is also where two important national parks meet: the Ordesa and Monte Perdido National Park and the Pyrenees National Park.

Jaca Citadel
Aerial view of the Jaca Citadel, Image: Iakov Filimonov / shutterstock

On the Spanish side, the city of Jaca, the former capital of Aragon, is considered a special highlight. Architectural treasures can be found here with the Michaelsbrücke, the old town with its cathedral and the fortifications. There are also great kayaking and rafting opportunities on the Spanish side with the Ésera River. Also known and popular is the Embalse de Mediano reservoir, where the spire bears witness to the sunken town of Mediano, which was once here.

Another highlight of the Pyrenees is the yellow train. A 62.5-kilometre route connects the towns of La Tor de Querol and Vilafranca de Conflent, which are well worth seeing. Here you can enjoy the panoramic view along cliffs, through tunnels and over fascinating stone bridges. In summer, you may be lucky enough to enjoy the ride in one of the open carriages, from where you can enjoy the open sky and the breeze of the Pyrenees.

Sonnenwald ski area in the Bavarian Forest

PatrickJullien
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Sonnenwald ski area in the Bavarian Forest

Snow-covered treetops glistening in the sun and sparkling light between wintry branches: this is the picture you can see in the Sonnenwald ski area. Here a winter fairy tale becomes reality. A radiant mood and a satisfied smile when you fall into bed tired in the evening: the Sonnenwald lives up to its name!

This destination is one for everyone: in this ski area you can let off steam and discover a lot. Skiing for the whole family – the Sonnenwald ski area in the middle of the Bavarian Forest is a special destination for all those who really want to experience something. Here everyone enjoys an uncomplicated holiday with extra variety. Various slopes and ski lifts guarantee skiing fun for all levels. If skiing is not the focus, then there are also a lot of other activities in the Sonnenwald that young and old can pursue.

The Brotjackl and its history

The most famous mountain in the Sonnenwald ski area is the Brotjacklriegel, also a popular destination in summer. There has been an observation tower on its summit since 1925, which offers breathtaking views over Bavaria. At the Brotjacklriegel there is a varied ski area with many great offers for the whole family.

Baby lifts, toboggan runs or fun parks bring variety to everyday winter life. There is a story about the funny name of this mountain. Supposedly, a bearded little man sought refuge on the mountain during the Swedish War. His name was Jackl and he always had enough bread to eat in front of his cave. Because he did not reveal the secret of his almost inexhaustible supply of bread to the Swedes , they rolled a boulder in front of his cave out of sheer anger. There was a thunderclap and the Swedes were turned into boulders. These are still on the mountain today…

Another, admittedly not quite as spectacular story, says that the mountain was actually called Breiter Jägerriegel and this name was transformed into “Brotjacklriegel” over time with the help of the dialect.

Up and down again

Brotjacklriegel
The bread jack bar, Image: lantapix / shutterstock

Still wobbly on the skis or already safely down the long descent? The various lifts in the Sonnenwald ski area together form a sophisticated concept in which everyone gets their money’s worth. It also has the longest conveyor belt in the entire Bavarian Forest. This allows the youngest ski talents to practice diligently. No one has to practice alone here, because in the Sonnenwald ski area the professionals from the ski school are ready.

The next level is at the Steinberg lift, because if you have practiced well enough, you can have fun here. Practice wild jumps: once through the fun park is not enough! But skiing is not everything. If you want to enjoy the winter fun to the fullest, you have a lot of other options here. In addition to the slope, there is also a toboggan run that tempts you to take fun sleigh rides. By the way, this is not only possible in daylight. Thanks to floodlights, the fun continues even in the dark. When the day comes to an end and the sun goes down, the winter fun is far from over! The lifts have very long opening hours and also good prices. In order to be able to offer families with several children great days of skiing, there are special family tickets here.

Fun off the slopes

Although the Sonnenwald ski area is not primarily famous for its Aires skiing opportunities, there are a few opportunities to have fun off-piste as well. In this ski area there are a few good places to stop for refreshments not far from skiing fun. And who serves the guests in the Yeti Hut remains a well-kept secret that requires a visit on the spot to find out! If you want to continue the sporting fun, but don’t want to ski every day, you can try cross-country skiing. In addition to the ski slopes in the Sonnenwald, there are also great cross-country trails to explore.

An exploration tour in the Bavarian Forest

So it is very worthwhile to discover the Sonnenwald ski area. The small winter paradise, hidden between ancient tree trunks and sunny slopes, is more than just an insider tip. Whether as a family, as a couple or alone – here it is easy to feel comfortable, to live out your sports and to experience special days that will be remembered forever. The paths in the ski area are short and practical, so you can spend your free time comfortably and don’t have to worry much about the daily routine. The Sonnenwald ski area shows winter at its best – with all the possibilities this season has to offer!

Havana – Cuba’s capital

PatrickJullien
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Havana – Cuba’s capital

A vacation in the Caribbean is a real dream for many people around the world. One of the most popular travel destinations is Havana. No wonder: After all, the capital of Cuba has countless small and large sights to offer for every taste and every age group.

Havana with a view of the Capitol
View of Havana with the Capitol, Image: BobNoah / shutterstock

With more than two million inhabitants, Havana is the largest city in the Caribbean. Diversity is very important in the metropolis, which is located on the northwest coast of Cuba. The city offers every visitor a very special flair of Cuban rhythms, exotic scents and historical buildings. Havana is not only the political center but also the cultural center of Cuba.

If you are visiting Havana, you should definitely take time to stroll through the narrow streets of the historic old town and enjoy the very special flair of the city. The historic centre of La Habana Vieja has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since the early 1980s. In addition to the countless historical buildings from the Middle Ages, the eventful history of the former Spanish colony is just as omnipresent on every corner as the famous Cuban attitude to life.

With the Aeropuerto Internacional José Marti, Havana has the most important and largest international airport in the country. This is located about eleven kilometers from the city center. In addition, there is another small airport at the gates of the city, which is used daily mainly for numerous domestic flights.

Sights: Landmark “Capitol”, Great Theater, Dream Beaches

If you are traveling in Havana, you should not miss Castillo de los Tres Reyes del Morro, among other places. The fortress from the 17th century is extremely imposing and impressive. Also worth seeing and experiencing is the Catedral de la Virgen María de la Concepción Inmaculada de La Habana.

One of the city’s biggest tourist magnets is the second largest cemetery in the world, the Cementerio Cristóbal Colón. When visiting the huge complex with more than 53,000 graves, you should plan a lot of time. Another must-see in the city center of the Cuban capital is a visit to the world-famous Capitol. The former residence of the Cuban head of state, which is also the city’s landmark, is one of the most popular photo motifs in the city. The Great Theatre is also always worth a visit – even outside of the top-class performances.

If you want to enjoy a fantastic sunset on your Havana holiday, you can do so from the famous El Malécon waterfront. There is a lot of activity here, especially in the evening hours – as well as in the numerous small cafés and bars. The beaches of Havana on the Gulf of Mexico are also world-famous. A popular destination for beach and relaxation vacationers are the Playas del Este. The so-called city beaches are located about 20 kilometers from the city center. One of the most beautiful and well-known beach sections is Playa Santa Maria del Mar. The wide beach is characterized by white Caribbean sand, turquoise blue water and beautiful palm trees – just as you would imagine a typical Caribbean beach. If you want to explore the fascinating Havana region on your own, you should definitely rent a car and make a round trip.

Cuba Trinidad
Colorful Havana, Image: Delpixel / shutterstock

A very special highlight is a round trip with a real American classic car, of which there are several thousand in Havana. “Pure relaxation” is also offered by the numerous parks in Havana. Central Park in the city center is always a good address for those seeking relaxation. In the center of the park is a large statue of José Marti, the national hero of Cuba. The Almendares Park on the banks of the river of the same name offers an exciting insight into the flora and fauna of the Cuban capital. In the east of Havana, there are other worthwhile excursion destinations with the nature reserves Laguna del Cobre Itabo and El Rincón de Guanabo.

Where to stay in Havana

Havana and the surrounding area offer numerous different accommodations for the countless visitors from all over the world. Whether in a luxurious five-star hotel on the beach or in the city centre, in a large holiday home in nature or a rather spartan hostel in the old town – in the city every tourist is sure to get their money’s worth. In addition, there are countless inexpensive private accommodations throughout the city.

The best time to visit Havana

The best time for an extensive and exciting trip to Havana is the winter months. From November to April, there is no major rainfall during this time due to the rainy season. Instead, tourists can look forward to “plenty of sun”. Temperatures during this time are a pleasant 28 degrees Celsius and rarely fall below the 20 degrees Celsius mark.

Destination Flanders: coast, culture and culinary delights

PatrickJullien
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Destination Flanders: coast, culture and culinary delights

Flanders is the northernmost of the three regions of Belgium and is also known as the Flemish Region. In the west, Flanders is bordered by the North Sea. The Flemish Region shares its northern and eastern borders with the Netherlands. So it is hardly surprising that the official language of Flanders is Dutch. Although the Belgian capital Brussels is a region in its own right, it is geographically located in the southern part of Flanders. Thus, a visit to the well-known EU city can be excellently combined with a holiday in Flanders.

When is the best time to travel to the Flemish Region of Belgium?

Flanders has a temperate, maritime climate. The Flemish winter is rainy and comparatively mild with temperatures averaging 5 to 10 degrees Celsius. The summer months in Flanders are usually pleasantly warm, but rarely hot. The water temperatures of the Belgian North Sea are cool and rarely reach more than 18 degrees Celsius, even in midsummer. A nice time to travel to Flanders is the sun-drenched early summer. In general, the months of May to September are recommended for a holiday in Flanders.

Holidays on Belgium’s North Sea coast

Wide sandy beaches and imposing dune landscapes adorn the almost 70 km long North Sea coast in western Belgium. Lifeguards monitor the Flemish beaches and promise passengers safe bathing in the sea. The Belgian North Sea coast can be explored particularly beautifully on a ride on the coastal railway. The longest tram line in the world runs from Knokke-Heist in the north of Flanders to Belgium’s western point to De Panne.

The seaside resort of De Panne, with its extensive sandy beach, is popular with active holidaymakers and families alike. De Panne is located in the middle of a 340-hectare dune area and offers excellent opportunities for walking, hiking, mountain biking and horseback riding. Among the busiest holiday resorts on the Belgian coast are Blankenberge and Ostend. Here, holidaymakers will find numerous restaurants, bars and leisure facilities. Lombardsijde, on the other hand, is more tranquil, where only a few international tourists spend their holidays.

Flanders’ most beautiful cities: Antwerp, Bruges and Ghent in brief

Antwerp, Belgium
The Brabo Fountain on the Grote Markt in Antwerp, Image: Mistervlad / shutterstock

The medieval port city of Antwerp is known as the world capital of diamonds. In the diamond district of Antwerp, which is only about 1 square kilometre in size, travellers can buy rough diamonds and fine jewellery at favourable conditions. In addition, Antwerp is known as the home of the Baroque painter Peter Paul Rubens. The Rubenhuis invites you to visit the former home and workplace of the world-famous painter and marvel at some of his most important masterpieces.

Four other works by Rubens can be admired in the Cathedral of Our Lady. In general, a visit to the Cathedral of Our Lady is highly recommended: The north tower of the church, built of sandstone, has been declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. It proudly rises 123 meters into the sky. Not far from the Church of Our Lady is the beer pub Het Elde Gebod, where guests can taste the different types of Belgian beer surrounded by figures of saints.

City break, Bruges
For those who like it a little quieter, Bruges is a good destination for a city trip, Image: TTstudio / shutterstock

West Flanders’ capital Bruges is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and enchants its visitors with its medieval flair, cobblestone streets and canals that invite you to take boat trips. A magnificent view over the Flemish city is offered from the Belfry Tower, which is considered the symbol of Bruges. In the Chocolate Museum of Bruges, visitors can learn everything they need to know about the history of Belgian chocolate production. Art lovers are recommended to visit the Groeninge Museum . Here you will find impressive exhibits from the Baroque, Renaissance, Realism, Neoclassicism and modern times.

Ghent is considered one of the best insider tips for city trips in Europe. In the Middle Ages, the city was one of the most important metropolises in Europe. Today, Ghent is a lively student city. The landmark of Ghent is the Gravensteen moated castle. Interesting is the extensive collection of historical torture instruments that can be admired when visiting Gravensteen. Another well-known sight of Ghent is St. Bavo’s Cathedral. Ghent’s oldest parish church houses the famous Ghent winged altar, which depicts the worship of the Lamb of God. A must for street art fans is a visit to Ghent’s graffiti alley Werregarenstraat. Constantly changing works of art by creative spray artists can be discovered on the concrete walls of the 100-meter-long street.

Food and drink: Flemish specialities

Shared meals with family and friends are very important to the inhabitants of Flanders. Accordingly, a lot of emphasis is placed on high-quality preparation of the food. Even the famous Belgian fries are not just ordinary fast food, but are prepared tastefully and with a lot of love. The tasty Vlaamse Frites, as the fries are called in Flanders, are popular with locals and holidaymakers alike. Flemish cuisine is known for its hearty meat and fish dishes. The restaurants on the North Sea coast in particular also have tasty dishes with lobster, crabs, oysters and mussels on their menus. The Flemish national dish is the soup Waterzooi. Traditionally, this consists of soup vegetables and fish. Today, however, Waterzooi is also often prepared with chicken instead of fish. For lovers of desserts, the Flemish butter waffles are popular, which can be eaten as a dessert or with coffee.

Flanders is chocolate country. Belgian chocolates are popular all over the world, both because of their wide variety and because of their high quality. In addition to classic chocolate varieties, exotic varieties – for example with hemp seeds, dill or wasabi – can also be tasted in Flanders. Just like Belgian chocolate, Belgian beers have also made a name for themselves internationally. There are around 2000 different types of beer in Belgium, some of which contain exotic ingredients such as ginger or coriander and juniper berries.

Compensation claim for flight delays

PatrickJullien
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Compensation claim for flight delays

Holidays at last! We all know that the beginning of a holiday is always a bit stressful. Especially if you travel with children, the holiday preparations incl. Packing your suitcase is a bit of a challenge. When you finally arrive at the airport, it is all the more annoying when the plane is also delayed. However, you are often entitled to compensation – which can quickly fill your holiday budget a little.

When is there a claim for damages? Only in the case of cancelled flights or also in the event of flight delays?

If your flight takes off late due to the airline’s fault, you are entitled to free food (snacks and drinks) from the airline even after a delay of two hours. The airline must pay financial compensation in the event of a delay of three hours. Since 11 February 2004, this has been legally regulated in the EU Air Passenger Law 261/2004 “Compensation for Flight Delays”. The prerequisite is that the flight has either taken off from the EU (affects all airlines) or landed in the European Union (affects airlines based in the EU).

My flight is delayed: what is the best way to proceed? How can I check whether I am entitled to compensation?

In the event of a flight delay, it is important to check whether you are entitled to compensation. Very important: Passengers have up to three years to assert their rights. So before you hastily accept the voucher offered by your airline and thus release it from its financial compensation payment by means of a waiver, you should keep a cool head.

A small checklist

On the last point, passengers receive support from the online provider Flightright. Here you have the opportunity to search for your cancelled flight via an online form and check the compensation claims within a few minutes free of charge. Flightright’s travel law experts will then – if you are commissioned – take over the unpleasant process of asserting your rights directly with the airline. This is done without risk – a commission is only due in the event of success. Hiring external experts is a good idea, as individuals can quickly reach their limits due to a lack of access to the information they need.

Flight delay
There are also opportunities for compensation in the event of missed connecting flights, Image: Hafiez Razali / shutterstock

Who is entitled to compensation?

Now it is becoming particularly interesting for employees: The decisive factor is who travels. Whether it’s a package tour or a business trip. The person who travels is entitled to financial compensation. So it doesn’t matter whether the ticket was paid for by you or your boss.

What rights do I have if I miss my connecting flight due to a delay?

If you reach your desired destination airport more than three hours late, you are also entitled to financial compensation. The decisive factor is the arrival at the destination and not the delay of individual partial flights.

How much is the financial compensation in the event of a flight delay?

The amount of compensation is generally based on the distance from the departure to the destination airport.

These are staggered as follows:

  • On short distances (up to 1,500 kilometres), you are entitled to compensation of 250 euros
  • On medium-haul flights (up to 3,500 kilometres, you are entitled to compensation of 400 euros
  • On long-haul flights (over 3,500 kilometres), you are entitled to €600

With the knowledge that you have the right to compensation even in the event of an annoying delay, you will be able to travel to the airport in a relaxed manner in the future after selecting a suitable destination .

In the event of a delay, be sure to follow the important to-do steps in the checklist above.

The most popular destinations in Turkey

PatrickJullien
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The most popular destinations in Turkey

Turkey is a very interesting and diverse travel destination. Whether you want to spend a beach holiday by the sea, explore the unique nature or visit famous historical sites, Turkey offers the opportunity to do so. It is simply impossible to list all the interesting destinations of the large country between Orient and Occident. But here are some Turkey travel tips for Turkey vacationers:

1. The Turkish Riviera

Turkish Riviera
The turquoise coast on the Turkish Riviera, Image: Bahadir Yeniceri / shutterstock

The south coast of Turkey on the Mediterranean Sea is certainly the number 1 holiday destination for German holidaymakers in Turkey.
The stretch of coastline known as the Turkish Riviera
 is located between the cities of Kemer in the west and Alanya in the east with the provincial capital Antalya in the middle. It consists of almost 1000 kilometers of coastline and is characterized by a particularly favorable climate with mild winters and not too hot summers.

Palm trees, orange, lemon and pomegranate trees grow here, and in spring the whole region is a sea of flowers. Another plus point are the beaches, which are often fine sandy and wide here. And while you splash around in the warm Mediterranean Sea, the snow-capped peaks of the Taurus Mountains, which are up to 3,000 meters high , can be seen almost “within reach”. But if you are on holiday here, you will also find a real treasure trove of archaeological sights that you will stumble upon practically at every turn. There are the ruins of the ancient castle Ic Kale high above the city of Alanya, the well-preserved remains of the large amphitheater of Aspendos near the city of Manavgat and the small town of Side, once an important ancient port city and today a lively open-air museum with many well-preserved ruins and open excavation sites in the middle of which modern life takes place.

2. Turkey’s Aegean Coast

Turkey’s Aegean coast is located in the west and southwest of Turkey, stretching from Izmir in the north to Mugla in the south. This stretch of coast is a bit wilder, rockier and greener than the Turkish Riviera. Countless bays cut deep into the country and there are many offshore islands but also very beautiful sandy beaches, for example in Marmaris, Fethye, Kuşadası and Çeşme. The archaeological highlight of this region is the huge excavation site of Ephesus. In ancient times, the city was one of the most important cities in Asia Minor. Its remains are visited annually by several hundred thousand tourists from all over the world.

3. Cappadocia

Cappadocia is a region in Central Anatolia that cannot be found anywhere else in the world and was formed by two mighty extinct volcanoes, Erciyes Dağı and Hasan Dağı. Their eruptions threw a lot of ash onto the area, from which a light tuff rock solidified over time. This rock was eroded and washed out by wind and rain or carved by humans, creating a landscape that looks like a fairytale world or an alien world.

Steine Cappadocia, Turkey
Cappadocia offer stunning nature, Image: Andrew Mayovskyy / shutterstock

There are the strangest stone formations, “fairy chimneys”, churches carved into the stone, houses and stables, even entire underground cities, cave hotels and restaurants. Special highlights of the region around the cities of Nevşehir, Niğde, Aksaray, Kırşehir and Kayseri are the Göreme Open-Air Museum, Uchisar Castle and the underground cities of Kaymakli and Derinkuyu, which are up to 10 stories deep and where up to 10,000 people found shelter and which were uncovered a few decades ago. In Cappadocia, balloon rides are often offered, during which the almost unearthly landscape comes into its own.

4. Istanbul

Istanbul, Ortaköy Mosque
The Ortaköy Mosque in Istanbul, Image: muratart / shutterstock

Istanbul is the only city in the world that sits on two continents and is a melting pot of history and cultures. In Istanbul there are influences of the Romans, Greeks, Byzantines and Ottomans, holy places of Christians and Muslims. It is a city like from 1001 Nights with its magnificent palaces and its mosques, but at the same time it is also a cosmopolitan city with elegant buildings in the style of the 19th century, with modern high-rise buildings made of concrete and glass, with great hotels, trendy cafes and restaurants, with modern shopping temples and at the same time with a huge bazaar and picturesque neighborhoods, where most of the houses are still made of wood.

The city of 15 million inhabitants resembles a puzzle of many different cities. A highlight of a trip to Istanbul is certainly a trip on the Bosphorus, which connects the Black Sea with the Mediterranean Sea and separates Europe from Asia. It is one of the busiest sea routes in the world, where many small ships, boats and ferries sail in addition to huge tankers. On the shores of the Golden Horn, an arm of the Bosphorus, there are very beautiful promenades and several large parks.

5. Turkey’s Black Sea Region

It is not yet so well known among Western and Central European tourists, rather a kind of insider tip, but also very attractive and a popular holiday area for Turks. This region is characterized by wooded mountains, alpine pastures and mountain huts, hazelnut groves and tea plantations, by small fishing villages with partly still lonely beaches and secluded bays. One of the most popular seaside resorts in the west of the Black Sea region and easily accessible from Istanbul (about 50 kilometers away) is Sile, a small coastal town with beautiful sandy beaches. The small quiet seaside resorts of Kilyos and Riva on the Black Sea near the mouth of the Bosphorus are also very pretty.

Georgia – The diverse country in the Caucasus

PatrickJullien
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Georgia – The diverse country in the Caucasus

Jörg Martin Dauscher has already visited many interesting countries in his life. Destinations that may not be at the top of everyone’s wish list. With his backpack, he undertook interesting tours through Macedonia, Albania and Ukraine, among other places.

He was also repeatedly drawn to Georgia. He has now written down how multifaceted and diverse the country on the Caucasus is in his book “111 Reasons to Love Georgia”.

In this interview, we talk to the former wine merchant about the advantages and culinary highlights of Georgia.

Jörg Martin Dauscher,
Jörg Martin Dauscher, Image: Phil Dera

Mr. Dauscher, why should you choose Tbilisi (Tbilisi) and not Paris, London or Rome when planning your next city trip?

So nothing against the cities mentioned, but Tbilisi has a similar amount to offer culturally, but is much more vital: the city is currently flourishing. To participate in it, or to experience it, that’s just fun! At the same time, the center of Tbilisi is quite clear and can be experienced on foot.

Which sights should not be missed by the Georgia traveler?

Nature, this tremendously diverse, exuberant nature – especially in the mountains, of course. So at least include a day hike, which also works quite well not far from Tbilisi, for example at Kazbegi or Stepantsminda.

In your opinion, how has tourism in Georgia changed in recent years?

It is exploding, more and more people have discovered the country for themselves – especially because of all the new airlines. Nevertheless, 98% of them are individual tourists who find their way to Georgia. The country is not easy to travel, but it is extremely convenient for people who want to get around on their own. Bring a lot of time, two weeks is the absolute minimum, better three! In July and August, it gets quite crowded in some places, so it’s better to target June and September.

What many people don’t know: Georgia has great and inexpensive ski resorts. You write in your book that Bakuriani is hopelessly overcrowded over New Year’s Eve. What is the best time to travel for winter sports enthusiasts?

Ski Gudauri Georgia
View of the Gudauri ski area, Image: Evgeny Eremeev / shutterstock

Both Gudauri and Mestia and the Tednuldi in Svaneti – although the latter is not really a ski resort in the European sense, it is simply too small and there are only a few lifts, but this makes up for the spectacular nature effortlessly. Bakuriani on New Year’s Eve doesn’t really have to be, but that subsides a week later. The main season in Gudauri is in January and February, but it is never crowded in the European sense. Only on weekends are there more people on the road, because that’s when Tbilisi approaches.

In your book, you name 111 reasons to love Georgia. From your point of view, what is THE most important reason to get to know the country and the culture?

Eieieiei. You write down 111 reasons and then you have to pick one! I can only answer that for myself, and for me the mountains predominate. The High Caucasus is simply phenomenally massive. Must see!

Finally, a culinary question: If you had the choice, which wine would you take? Georgian Mtsvane or Rhine-Hessian Riesling?

You’re asking the completely wrong person! In Georgia definitely the Mtsvane and it can also be the cheap one from the market. In Rheinhessen then the Riesling please, this mighty St. Georgenberg from Pfannebecker, for example, preferably with a few years of maturity!

111 Reasons to Love GeorgiaAbout the author:
JÖRG MARTIN DAUSCHER, born in Franconia in 1975, worked as a wine merchant in Berlin before he took a backpack and left the city. Since then, he has repeatedly been drawn to Georgia, where he lived in mountain villages for months. Dauscher loves the mountains and the sea, he is a passionate hiker and works as an author as well as a journalist and, if necessary, also as a barista, chef or sommelier.

You can order his book 111 Reasons to Love Georgia in specialist shops or on Amazon .

Arrange to meet friends digitally: The best games and applications at a glance!

PatrickJullien
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Arrange to meet friends digitally: The best games and applications at a glance!

Due to the Corona pandemic, social contacts threaten to fall by the wayside. However, this does not have to be the case. Nowadays, it is easy to make appointments with family and friends via the Internet. Thanks to umpteen different games and applications, it is possible to defy the ongoing lockdown and maintain contacts.

Real Money Casino: Competitive Gaming
Gambling on the Internet is becoming increasingly popular. The gigantic range of games offered by the individual online casinos caters to almost every taste and leaves nothing to be desired. From card games to classic casino games to exotic applications, everything is on board. The majority of the games unfold the most fun in a communal atmosphere. So why not meet your friends for a round of poker? If you want it a little more exciting and competitive, you can even play for real money. Depending on personal preference, you don’t have to play for huge sums of money. You can find out which online casinos with real money are particularly recommended on the echtgeldcasino.co website .

Classic games as an app
Mobile gaming is a central part of public life today. Even before the outbreak of the pandemic, numerous games were romping around in the App Store and Play Store. During the lockdown, they are an ideal place to go to combine fun and social contacts. There are many classic games also available in digital versions that can be played together over the Internet.

City, Country, River
General knowledge and speed are the key factors for victory in town, country, river . In the meantime, the classic game is also available in digital form, which sets no limits to personal gaming fun with umpteen different modifications. Many of the variants can be played online via app as well as on the computer with friends.

Monopoly
One of the oldest and most popular board games is also available as an online version. Similar to analogue form, Monopoly is also playable as a digital offshoot with various modifications. The gameplay doesn’t really change much.

Quiz duel
In the Quizduell app, two players can compete against each other and prove their knowledge in different question categories. It is also possible to compete specifically against a friend. If you want, you can also play against a random opponent. Quizduell is available for all common platforms. Whether iOS, Android or PC – quizzes can be done anywhere.

Among Us: The Video Game Hype
If you call yourself a casual or hardcore gamer, you won’t have been able to get past Among Us in recent weeks and months. The video game with the simple yet so ingenious idea is to be found in the genre of mind games and experienced a huge hype until recently. Even though this has now flattened out again, Among Us remains a very good game. The recipe for success is based on human interaction.

Up to ten players per round are on a virtual spaceship and have to complete certain tasks as a crew. However, two members of the crew are encouraged to play a foul game . They are the so-called Impostors and have to kill all other players and sabotage the ship. Once a body has been discovered, a meeting can be called. Here, they discuss among themselves how the murder happened and who is a possible suspect. Depending on the skill and course of the game, it can also affect innocent people.

Among Us is free to download for smartphones and tablets. For both Android and iOS, this variant is provided with advertisements. If you want to play with friends on your computer, you will find it on the Steam platform. Here, however, you have to pay 4.99 euros for the murderous fun .

Chess for long meetings
A round of chess can take its time, depending on how it goes. The classic board game is challenging and calming at the same time. This unique combination can also be experienced comfortably on the Internet via the numerous chess platforms. So if you’re looking for a longer meeting with your boyfriend or girlfriend and a lengthy game, you should try a game of chess.

As a rule, the online platforms offer the classic game for free. All you have to do is send a challenge via an invitation link or by personal request by e-mail. You get this after successful registration. Apart from the normal chess variant, modified spin-offs can also be tried out on the individual websites. If you want to improve your gameplay, you can even learn new things via tutorials.

Pen & Paper – Limitless Creativity
Classic board games, casino games and video games are not appealing enough? How about pen & paper? Here you can create your own setting as a group of players and create your own world. There are no limits to creativity. As the name suggests, Pen & Paper requires a pen and paper. The game board, characters and storyline are built only by words. The game principle can therefore be adapted on the Internet without any major problems. There are special online platforms for this purpose, where you can fantasize with friends.

Just like in the analogue version, a participant is appointed as the game master before the start of the game. He decides on the setting and the plot of the story. The other players move with their characters within the framework of the story and accordingly only have a limited radius of action. The self-created characters can learn skills in the course of the story, which are determined by the game master. In combination with simulated dice rolls, these are responsible for how the game goes.

Ideally, the player who is given the role of game master should be spontaneous and creative. This is the only way to ensure a satisfying gaming experience. Of course, a common setting can also be designed before the game night.

Go – A must for strategy fans
Go comes from Japanese gaming culture and is often compared to chess, but offers much more depth. The strategy game is based on skillful placement of the black and white pieces on a grid-like game board. The goal is to encircle the opponent and steal his stones. If you are up for a complex challenge and are looking for a longer game evening with a friend, you should try Go . On the Internet, various platforms offer the Japanese strategy game for free.

Relaxation by the sea – let’s go to Spain

PatrickJullien
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Relaxation by the sea – let’s go to Spain

Spain’s coasts are every holidaymaker’s dream. There are so many small villages and towns that as a traveler you will be spoilt for choice for your dream destination. A holiday home in Spain by the sea is the perfect starting point for your holiday.

From Mallorca to Andalusia – here you will find relaxation

Spain is not one of the most popular travel destinations for Germans for nothing. In the summer months, millions of tourists cavort on the country’s beaches. Not only Spain’s capital Madrid, but also beautifully located seaside destinations are very popular. The following five destinations are particularly popular with German tourists and are visited again and again every year.

Alcúdia in Mallorca

Old Town Alcudia
The old town of Alcudia, Image: Mariasokphoto / shutterstock

Just over 20,000 inhabitants live on Alcúdia, one of the largest cities in Mallorca. To the north, the beautiful community has numerous sights, but also has a lot to offer in terms of beaches. Cleanliness and high water quality are very important here, so that families with children will also find the perfect holiday home.

Cadaqués in Catalonia

The small village of Cadaqúes is located just before the French border, directly on the Costa Brava. Well-known artists such as Pablo Picasso and Salvador Dali have spent their holidays here. Located in the heart of the Cap de Creus Natural Park, Cadaqués is the perfect destination for a quiet and tranquil holiday without stress and with small beach coves to relax.

Conil de la Frontera in Andalusia

Málaga, Andalusia
View of Málaga in Andalusia, Image: S-F / shutterstock

One of Spain’s hotspots is the small village of Conil de la Frontera, which is visited by numerous tourists every summer. Nevertheless, the kilometre-long sandy beaches are never overcrowded. Due to the extremely mild Mediterranean climate, it is never too warm here, so that families with small children will also find a perfect place to be.

Cudillero in Asturias

Located directly on the Cantabrian Sea is the small fishing village of Cudillero. Built on a small hillside, this village offers breathtaking views over the north coast of Spain. Cudillero is the perfect destination for a quiet holiday, as the party scene has a break here. Instead, the picturesque old town beckons with its beautiful, old Spanish buildings and extraordinary dishes directly from the coast. Whether hake or shark, in the fish restaurants you can feast and linger in the traditional way.

Peníscola in Valencia

Spain, Valencia
Valencia, Image: karnavalfoto / shutterstock

Located directly on the Spanish east coast, Peníscola is the destination for those interested in culture and beach vacationers. Whether it’s a visit to the Templar Castle or a shopping tour through dozens of small souvenir shops, there is something for every tourist here in Valencia. A visual highlight is the old town with the traditional Spanish white houses, which was built directly on a rock. A fantastic panorama, a breathtaking view and the perfect holiday for all those who want to experience the special flair of Spain.

The holiday apartment as a starting point

A holiday apartment is the perfect choice for a holiday in Spain. From here you can start activities, visit the beach and in the evening retreat with your family to your personal feel-good environment. Forget the hustle and bustle of the hotels, but cater for yourself with Spanish delicacies. Numerous holiday apartments are located directly on the coast, so that nothing stands in the way of going to the sea directly after breakfast.

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