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Advertisement: Wellness hotels in the Bavarian Forest – beacons of hospitality

PatrickJullien
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Advertisement: Wellness hotels in the Bavarian Forest – beacons of hospitality

It is said of the Bavarian Forest that the trees there are enchanted. The fact is that this beautiful piece of Germany feels like a fairytale forest and that many of the ancient and gnarled spruce trees could tell stories. This region was first and foremost ennobled in this country and elevated to the rank of a “national park”. The courage to go wilderness was rewarded, and today the Bavarian Forest is a first-class address to take a deep breath and do good for body and soul in a wonderful environment. Many a person gets answers to the questions about the meaning of life here. Anyone who enjoys the most beautiful days of the year in one of the numerous comfortable hotels in the Bavarian Forest will take the longing for a “comeback” with them on their journey home.

“Refreshingly natural…!” The tourism managers of the Bavarian Forest have come up with a slogan that brings the mood there and probably also the expectations of holidaymakers to a very short denominator. Because behind these two words is a premium offer in a class of its own. Where the forests “sing”, wellness and well-being enter into a sophisticated synthesis in the hotels. The noble hostels are beacons of hospitality, and when the spirit seeks refreshment in the vicinity of the forests, naturalness is immediately included. In the Bavarian Forest, it smells of hay in a village atmosphere on summer days, and those who treat themselves to a sound therapy massage in the hotel will not be irritated even when the milk cans clatter in front of a farm next door.

Wellness holiday Bavarian Forest
The Bavarian Forest also offers excellent recreational opportunities in winter, Image: moreimages / shutterstock

60 hotels in the Bavarian Forest have been decorated with stars. They offer everything that the international wellness palaces would like to adorn themselves with. But they stand out from the often oversized comfort hostels with their individual charm. Guests feel it as soon as they arrive, when helpful spirits take care of the luggage they have brought with them and their stay in the hotel begins with a tingling refreshment at the bar. Hospitality is by no means a foreign word in the premium hotels of the Bavarian Forest, but a matter of course.

If you want to combine your wellness holiday with intensive leisure activities, the Bavarian Forest is the right place for you. The wildly romantic surroundings invite you to actively enjoy and discover this region. A hike in the snow, the flair of spring, the beguiling scent of green forests, the rustling of leaves in autumn – a stay in this unique region of Germany knows no seasonal boundaries. Many of the hotels that offer pampering programmes in the Bavarian Forest are family-run. And this guarantees personal service. To unwind there is synonymous with a holiday with friends.

With the hotel key, a wonderful world of well-being opens up, and the wellness treatments in the Bavarian Forest are versatile and without exception health-promoting. Centuries-old practices are now booming. For example, the release of essential oils by heating hay. The mild form of therapies in the so-called Kraxenofen is popular in many wellness hotels. It got its name from the carrying frames with which the freshly harvested hay was transported from the fields in earlier times. The heat from the Kraxenofen protects the circulation and relaxes the muscles.

If you want to fight your cravings for sweets and reduce excess fat deposits during your stay in the Bavarian Forest, you can take a whey-algae cure in a wellness hotel. The minerals of the algae stimulate the metabolism, while the whey helps with purification. Wellness days in the Bavarian Forest can give the organism a rejuvenation boost. Or how about herbal stamp massages? Herbs from Bavarian lands are used. They nourish the skin and promote blood circulation at the same time. If you open your heart to the beauties of the Bavarian Forest after a sauna session, you very often get a completely new perspective.

Forest Bathing Bavarian Forest
Switch off while “forest bathing”, Image: moreimages / shutterstock

Some of the wellness hotels in the Bavarian Forest have a wellness area that often covers more than a thousand square meters with its various treatments. Of course, this also includes massages and beauty treatments. But some guests also look forward to a few quiet laps in the pleasantly warm water of the swimming pool. Or a few kilometers on the treadmill. And the impressive landscape of the Bavarian Forest always beckons on the hotel’s doorstep.

With a medically supervised dose of jogging or on a hike with poles to relieve the knee joints and spine. Wellness in the Bavarian Forest – but that is also the effort of all feel-good oases to offer guests culinary highlights in addition to tropical showers and crystal steam baths. Creative, young and Bavarian is what is conjured up in the kitchens and served in the restaurants of the wellness hotels.
The alphabet of the spas in the Bavarian Forest ranges from Arrach to Zwiesel. Bad Kötzting and Bodenmais are just two of a number of state-approved climatic health resorts. And everywhere people are convinced that spending time in a forest has positive effects on maintaining health.

The so-called “forest bathing” was invented in distant Japan, but has also been practiced in the Bavarian Forest for some time. Experiences in a wooded environment are a blessing for mind and body, reduce stress and have been proven to lower blood pressure.

No question: Anyone who puts themselves in the care of one of the wellness hotels in the Bavarian Forest enjoys a very special gift. He opens himself to the beautiful things in life, can feel with his eyes and see with his soul.

The Sternberg Lake District: idyll and action away from the tourist strongholds

PatrickJullien
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0
The Sternberg Lake District: idyll and action away from the tourist strongholds

Idyllic natural landscapes, a species-rich flora and fauna and some popular sights: The Sternberg Lake District has developed into a popular holiday destination in recent years. The nature park, founded in 2005, is located in the east of Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania , east of Lake Schwerin in the district of Ludwigslust-Parchim. With the founding of the nature park, the Förderverein Naturpark Sternberger Seenland e.V. was also founded.

This supports the daily work of the nature park administration with various campaigns for the preservation and sustainable protection of the nature park and its biodiversity. A good starting point for all those who are guests in the region for the first time and want to explore it is the Nature Park Centre in the 4,000-inhabitant town of Warin. Here, visitors can find out about a wide variety of excursion destinations, the history of the nature park and the numerous special features of the regional flora and fauna. In addition, everyone can equip themselves here for their discovery tour through the Sternberg Lake District. For example, you can buy binoculars, hiking maps, nature books or backpacks in the nature park centre. The Nature Park Centre is open from May to September from Monday to Friday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., and in the autumn and winter months (from October to April) from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Four nature guards offer guided tours of the Sternberg Lake District in the season from May to October.

Spectacular steep slopes, idyllic gems, unspoilt nature

The Sternberg Lake District is particularly popular with nature holidaymakers and those seeking relaxation – and for good reason. After all, in addition to many small and large bodies of water, the nature park also offers numerous hiking and cycling trails as well as idyllic gems and unspoilt nature away from the big tourist strongholds. The largest lake in the nature park is the Großer Wariner See, but the Neuklostersee and the Großer Sternberger See are also very popular with tourists and locals.

The spectacular steep slopes up to 40 metres high in the Warnow-Mildenitz breakthrough valley are just as worth experiencing as a hike to the Warnow breakthrough valley. There is an approximately four-kilometre-long circular trail here, which leads, among other things, to a Slavic castle ruin in Groß Raden. The largest inland salt marsh in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania near Sülten also captivates many tourists every year. Among other things, numerous rare plant and animal species can be found here. Among other things, the kingfisher, the osprey and the liverwort have become native here in recent decades.

Sternberg Lake District – hiking, cycling and paddling

Pinnower See, Sternberg Lake District
At Lake Pinnow in the Sternberg Lake District, Photo: TMV/Susanne Krauss

Active holidaymakers are also in the right place in the Sternberg Lake District. After all, the region offers ideal conditions for hikers, cyclists and water sports enthusiasts. For example, the cycle path from Dobbertin to Sternberg is considered one of the most beautiful in Germany. The many idyllic waterways and lakes are bustling with activity. And if you don’t have your own boat, you can rent padel boats and canoes at various points in the region. In addition, the region is a true paradise for young and old anglers. A very special one in the Sternberg Lake District is the so-called Sternberg cake. The sandstone chunk, which is about 25 million years old, owes its name to its appearance, which is reminiscent of a layered cake. Fossil shells, snails and shark teeth are densely packed in the rock. These lived in the sea many millions of years ago and reached the earth’s surface through the Ice Age, among other things.

Relaxed stroll through Sternberg

In the middle of the approximately 540 square kilometre area is the small town of Sternberg, which gave the Lakeland its name and, with its 4,000 inhabitants, is also the largest village in the Lakeland. Among other things, it is worth taking a relaxed stroll through the historic old town, on the edge of which the church of St. Maria and St. Nicholas is idyllically enthroned on hills. From the approximately 60-metre-high church tower, you can enjoy a wonderful view over the entire region.

Sternberg Market Square
Blick auf die Stadtkirche St. Maria & St. Nikolaus Sternberg und das alte Postamt // view of the city church St. Maria & St. Nikolaus Sternberg and the old post office

And the surrounding villages also offer a lot of sights in addition to the idyllic nature. The Archaeological Open-Air Museum Groß Raden should not be missed. The more than 1,000-year-old temple castle has been extensively reconstructed in recent decades. Here, among other things, the early settlement by Slavic tribes is made visible and tangible. The region also has several monasteries from the 13th century – including Temzin, Neukloster and Dobbertin. Another attraction is the Zülow hydroelectric power plant. The largest hydroelectric power plant in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, which has been designated as a technical monument for about 40 years, has been privately owned since 2004.

Accommodation in the Sternberg Lake District

Throughout the region, there are of course numerous accommodations for every taste and budget – from various star hotels, to private holiday homes and apartments, to four campsites. Popular accommodations include the “Feriendorf Sternberger Seenland” in Dabel and the group house & guesthouse “Haus am Walde” in Borkow.

Côte d’Ivoire – An underrated country on the Gulf of Guinea

PatrickJullien
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0
Côte d’Ivoire – An underrated country on the Gulf of Guinea

The country of Ivory Coast is noticed by few travelers, although it has a lot to offer. They try to attract tourists to the country with the motto “Dream, sunbathe, swim, forget Europe for a moment and discover the deep black Africa”. Currently, however, very few guests come to Ivory Coast for a holiday, but the first tour operators have already discovered the country for themselves.

Côte d’Ivoire – The country at a glance

Beach vacationers will find long sandy beaches overgrown with palm trees. Fans of animals and plants get their money’s worth in the nature reserves and the peoples and cultures immerse the visitor in a completely different world. A great potential that has hardly been noticed so far. The Ivory Coast is slightly smaller than Germany and about the same size as Norway.

The many natural areas form contrasts and give rise to many different climate zones and vegetation. On the Atlantic coast there are the long sandy beaches, the bays and cliffs, swamps, lagoons and mangrove forests. In the interior you will find the rainforest, which is about 100 to 200 kilometers deep. The thicket of the jungle is broken up by small clearings where bananas, coffee and cocoa are grown. Further north you reach the so-called South Sudanese climate area and reach the plateau. The plateau is mainly cultivated by farmers and occupies most of the state’s area. Further north, you can only find the savannahs, where the nights are cool, the days warm and the dry periods sometimes last for weeks.

The Manhattan of Africa

ABIDJAN, Côte d'Ivoire
The metropolis of Abidjan , Image: Roman Yanushevsky / shutterstock

The city of Abidjan is located on the Atlantic coast and is spread over several headlands. It is also known as the Manhattan of Africa because of its futuristic office towers, magnificent buildings and luxury shops in the immediate vicinity. The heart of the city, however, beats in the traditional districts, where the colourful life of the population is evident and the small restaurants entice you with all kinds of specialities. Markets offer an incredible abundance of goods and the city’s residents turn night into day. The museum “Musée des Civilisations de Côte d’Ivoire” offers a great insight into the culture and life of the tribes of the Ivory Coast.

At the gates of the city is the “Banko” National Park. It covers an area of about 3,000 hectares and is intended to preserve the tropical rainforest in its original form, otherwise it threatens to disappear. To the east you reach the large beaches, palm trees and hut villages line the way. The town of Grand-Bassam is well worth a visit. It was the capital of the then French colony and houses the magnificent buildings of that time. There are some bungalow settlements in this area of the country and the region is generally designed for tourism.

A real king

A detour to the north leads the holidaymaker to a true king. Bonzou II resides in the small town of Abengourou and watches over the Agni people. This ethnic group immigrated from Ghana in the 17th century and founded a powerful kingdom. The king and his subjects have been able to preserve their cultures to this day and transfer the foreigner to another culture.

In the west, many seaside resorts await

Beaches Côte d'Ivoire
The Ivory Coast also scores with beautiful sandy beaches, Image: Dana Ward / shutterstock

West of Abidjan, along the lagoon strip, the tourist reaches several more or less well-developed seaside resorts. The hinterland is best explored from the stilt dwelling village of Tiagba. By boat or on foot, the Assigny National Park can be explored. The jungle reserve covers an area of 300 square kilometres and is home to a number of elephants. A trip to the Tai National Park, which is located on the border with Liberia, is a bit more time-consuming. It is under the protection of UNESCO and, with a size of 5,500 square kilometers, is about twice the size of Saarland. The diverse vegetation and abundant wildlife are maintained by local institutes and the park is open to tourists.

The city of 18 mountains

A few hours north of the park is the city of Man, which has a population of 300,000. It is surrounded by mountains and forests, waterfalls, bamboo groves, liana bridges and coffee plantations. This region of Ivory Coast is home to the Yacouba, who are known for their ritual dances and handicrafts. A little further north is the administrative capital of the country. Yamoussoukro is a gigantic test-tube city that seems almost bizarre. Very few people live in the city, although it is hard to beat in size. The basilica “Notre Dame de la Paix”, a replica of St. Peter’s Basilica, alone has a gigantic dimension.

Rabat – historic royal city and modern metropolis

PatrickJullien
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Rabat – historic royal city and modern metropolis

Morocco The capital Rabat is a metropolis full of fascinating impressions. In many areas, Rabat is a vibrant city whose atmosphere is shaped by a diverse, colorful and modern society. But at every turn you come across the witnesses of a long and eventful history. The city’s location on the Atlantic Ocean, but not far from the Strait of Gibraltar and the Mediterranean Sea, has always attracted many conquerors, sailors and merchants.

As early as 800 years before Christ, Phoenician merchants built a trading post here. Roman emperors turned the port town on the edge of the then known world into a flourishing small town. At the turn of the first millennium, the teachings of Islam were introduced and numerous caliphs took turns as rulers. In addition to Rabat, the cities of Fez, Marrakech, and Meknès also became so-called royal cities, where the rulers of various dynasties built their palaces.

Under Spanish influences, Rabat became an important overseas port, visited by hundreds of ships from all nations of Europe. At the beginning of the 19th century, the city was increasingly shaped by French politics and culture. Morocco became independent in 1956. The constitution of the new state is a constitutional monarchy and Rabat is now not only the capital, but once again a royal city.

Great impressions while strolling through a fascinating city

Rabat is divided into various areas of tourist interest, the origins of which lie in very different eras. There is the Arab old town, the Moorish fortress Kasbah of the Oudayas, the Hassan district with the tower of the same name, the mausoleum of Mohammed V and the royal palace Mischua. A completely different cityscape is offered by the Ville Nouvelle, the modern, French-influenced new town. A stroll through the city should also include a visit to the venerable and mysterious necropolis of Chellah.

The lively streets of the medina

Hassan Tower, Rabat
The Hassan Tower, Image: Olena Tur / shutterstock

The medina, the old town of Rabat, is enclosed on three sides by a high wall. Inside, you will encounter a symmetrically arranged maze of alleys with a lively, exotic atmosphere. A variety of merchants delight with a rich range of food, spices, clothing and souvenirs. It is the right place to buy a beautiful and original souvenir of visiting Rabat.

The Kasbah of the Oudayas

Not far from the medina rise the mighty fortress walls of the Kasbah of the Oudayas. The fortress dates back to the 12th century and has been designated by UNESCO as part of the World Heritage Site. Behind the Moors, a picturesque district awaits the visitor, which is also called the “city within the city” by its inhabitants. There is a small park in Andalusian style and some very interesting museums. The handicraft collection of the Musée des Oudaïas is particularly worth seeing. In the middle of the Kasbah is also the oldest mosque in the city, the Jama al Atiq. The almost 1,000-year-old building was extensively restored in the 18th century. In many places in the Kasbah of the Oudayas you can enjoy a great view of the mouth of the Bou-Regreg River, the beaches, port facilities and the neighboring town of Salè on the opposite bank of the river. A nice place for a rest is the nearby Café Maure, which is more than 100 years old.

Rabat’s landmark: The Hassan Tower

The unmissable focal point of the Hassan district is the 44-metre-high Hassan Tower. The square building has an edge length of 16 m and was intended to become a huge minaret in the early 12th century, to the top of which you could ride up with a horse. Unfortunately, the tower and the associated mosque were never completed. The fragments of walls and columns on the square in front of the tower give an idea of the gigantic size of this sacred building. Only a few meters away is the mausoleum of Mohammed V. He was the first Moroccan king after independence from the French colonial era. His son King Hassan II has also found his final resting place here.

The Chellah Necropolis

A very special place is the necropolis, the “city of the dead” Chellah. Through a gate flanked by two massive towers, one enters the area enclosed by high walls. In 13. and In the 14th century, numerous important personalities, nobles and religious leaders were buried here. The tomb of Sultan Abu l-Hasan, who was buried here in 1351, is well preserved and worth seeing. After a walk through a well-kept park, you will reach the ruins of the Roman settlement of Sala Colonia. They were discovered in the 1930s and carefully exposed. The
The surviving remains of the walls of residential buildings and shops show how everyday life was in antiquity.

Art and culture in Rabat

Rabat, Morocco's capital
View of the capital Rabat, Image: saiko3p / shutterstock

A complex insight into Moroccan history from Roman times to the present day is provided by the Musée Archéologique in the Ville Nouvelle, the new town. Just a few steps away, the Musée Mohammed VI d’art moderne et contemporain inspires with its Moorish façade and a highly interesting collection of art and paintings from different eras.

The beaches of Rabat

If you are looking for refreshment after a stroll through the city and sightseeing, you will be thrilled by the extensive beaches of the city. Directly in the city area, near the Kasbah des Oudayas, are the beaches Temara and Skirat. At the “Plage des Nations” you will even find good opportunities for surfing.

What do you need to pack when you go on holiday in Thailand?

PatrickJullien
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What do you need to pack when you go on holiday in Thailand?

A holiday in Thailand needs to be well planned. Whether it’s relaxing on Patong beach or backpacking across the country, you should be clear about what you really need in Southeast Asia before you leave.

One worry about a Thailand vacation can be taken away from the outset: If you forget to put something in your suitcase, you can be sure to find it in Bangkok, Phuket and the other large cities and settlements without any problems and to be able to fill up your travel needs. Conversely, this also means that you should not pack too much – especially as a backpacker, light travel through Thailand is appropriate.

Packing your suitcase for Thailand: Clothing for a tropical climate

Since Thailand has a tropical-humid climate, you should attach importance to light and airy clothing. Less is not necessarily more: As protection against mosquitoes and other insects, when visiting temples and in order not to attract unpleasant attention, the garments should be chosen carefully and not be too short. Swimwear is also appropriate at all times on the beach, as neither nude bathing nor topless sunbathing are allowed in Thailand. Light but sturdy shoes are also part of a well-packed suitcase.

If you are planning a longer stay, you will also want to equip yourself with electronic devices. For this, you need not only the usual accessories, such as the charging cable, but also a power adapter for the sockets. You should also not do without a flashlight, especially if you want to travel to rural areas. By the way, for a trip of up to 30 days, no visa is required if you arrive by plane.

Passport and other papers: What you shouldn’t forget

Of course, there is also a big difference in the orientation of your holiday. A backpacker needs completely different equipment than a package tourist – and that starts with the selection of the suitcases themselves.

In addition to the personal belongings that you pack in your suitcase for your Thailand vacation, there are also some official papers that you should not forget under any circumstances: The passport, or a temporary or a children’s passport, must be carried with you at all times. It must be valid for at least six months upon entry. When entering the country, you must also have your return ticket ready and may have to show it. Copies of the papers should also be taken with you as a precaution.

Protection against malaria: mosquito spray and other insect repellents

Although the Federal Foreign Office does not list any vaccination requirements, it advises protection against hepatitis A and B, typhoid, tetanus, diphtheria, whooping cough, polio, mumps, influenza, measles and rubella. You cannot be vaccinated against malaria or dengue fever, but you should be aware of the danger: A mosquito spray is indispensable at any time of the day or night for free parts of the body. Disinfectants should also be purchased there at the latest.

Over 15 million travelers to Thailand spend their holidays in Southeast Asia every year. If you are looking for a package holiday in one of the tourist strongholds to be able to recover from the worries of everyday life, or if you prefer to experience the exciting country on your own – the individual possibilities in Thailand are almost inexhaustible.

Tanzania: Dream beaches, five-thousand-metre peaks and wild safaris

PatrickJullien
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Tanzania: Dream beaches, five-thousand-metre peaks and wild safaris

Tanzania, the state in East Africa that became independent from the mandated power Great Britain in 1961, is the fifth largest country on the African continent. Climate and vegetation are tropical, the state is nestled between the Indian Ocean, volcanoes and high alpine terrain. Kibo, the highest mountain in Africa at 5,895 meters, which belongs to the Kilimanjaro massif, is also located on the territory of Tanzania. In addition, the country has several national parks to offer where exotic animals can be observed. We have presented the most worthwhile sights and corners of the country for your holiday in Tanzania here.

The Serengeti National Park

Elephants in the Serengeti National Ark in Tanzania
Elephants in the Serengeti National Ark, Image: GTS Productions / shutterstock

At the latest since its release, and the film “Serengeti must not die“, which won the Oscar for best documentary in 1960, the Serengeti National Park in Germany has been on everyone’s lips. Michael and Bernhard Grzimek, who shot the film between 1957 and 1959 at the invitation of the National Park Administration, portray the extremely exciting animal migration in the National Park in the film.

It still attracts visitors from all over the world who don’t want to miss the spectacle when countless wildebeests, more than 200,000 zebras and over 300,000 Thomson’s gazelles pass through the national park. The animal migration can be observed all year round, as the herds always move a little further in the course of the year after staying in one place for one to two months. Dusty savannahs and wildly overgrown plains are roamed, there are fabulously beautiful wildflowers and tropical trees to marvel at. In addition, guided game drives are offered, on which lions, giraffes and elephant groups as well as buffalo herds are approached. Anyone who has ever watched a pride of lions having lunch will certainly not forget it in a hurry.

Trekking on Kilimanjaro

Trekking on Kilimanjaro
Trekking on Kilimanjaro, Image: Natanael Ginting / shutterstock

Since 1987, the Kilimanjaro massif, located in the northeast of the country, has been a World Heritage Site. In 1973, the Kilimanjaro National Park was founded. Kibo is one of the relatively easy five-thousanders to climb, as the mountain presents relatively few technical difficulties.

Nevertheless, the ascent should not be taken lightly, as trekkers should still beware of altitude sickness. On the way to the summit you pass several vegetation levels, from jungle-like rainforest to firn and snow fields. The views of the surrounding plains are unique. In any case, a guided trekking tour is recommended for the ascent, which takes visitors slowly and over several stages to the summit. There are routes with different levels of difficulty on offer. If you are not quite so ambitious, you can also hike only parts of the route. Below the tree line, which is at an altitude of about 3,500 metres, you can admire magnificent plants such as orchids, acacias, cedars and junipers as well as ferns and lianas. The fauna on Kilimanjaro is also very diverse. It is quite possible that hikers will encounter monkeys, leopards, zebras or buffaloes.

Dream beaches and culture on the Zanzibar archipelago

If you love the sea more than the mountains, you will feel like you are in paradise on the islands of the Zanzibar archipelago. The archipelago is located 30 kilometers off the coast of Tanzania in the Indian Ocean and attracts divers with enchanting coral reefs. Many beaches of the archipelago are populated by sea turtles, which have their breeding grounds there. Bottlenose dolphins and humpback dolphins are also native to the area and can be experienced on dolphin safaris.

And sightseeing is not neglected on the islands either. On the main island of Zanzibar , the island’s capital, Zanzibar City, attracts visitors with colonial architecture. Worth seeing is the residential palace of the former sultan of the island, which now serves as a museum. The Arab Fort, which was built between 1698 and 1701, now serves as a cultural venue with its amphitheater. Over time, the Arab Fort changed its purpose again and again and was used as a prison, market place and even as a tennis court for some years.

Visits to the Central Market and the Forodhani Gardens are also worthwhile. While fish, spices and exotic fruits and vegetables can be admired in their raw state at the Central Market, visitors often overlook their eyes when strolling through the Forodhani Gardens: because this is Zanzibar’s nightlife mile, where exotic dishes are prepared in cooking and grill kitchens. Zanzibar, by the way, bears the nickname Spice Island, and that’s no coincidence. The climatic conditions allow vanilla, cloves or nutmeg to thrive. All spice lovers are therefore recommended to take a spice tour to the cultivation areas of the aroma carriers.

The Olduvai Gorge

Olduvai Gorge, Tanzania
Olduvai Gorge, Image: Yakov Oskanov / shutterstock

Visitors interested in archaeology should definitely visit the Olduvai Gorge. Together with the Afar Triangle in Ethiopia and some archaeological sites in the South African province of Gauteng, the Olduvai Gorge is considered the cradle of humanity. Here, in northern Tanzania, numerous Pleistocene fossils have been found, which belong to the early relatives of anatomically modern humans. In addition, the gorge is the namesake for the Oldowan culture. The oldest known Stone Age tools of mankind originate from it. The gorge has a length of about 50 kilometers and is 100 meters deep. It can be hiked through today. If you are lucky, you will meet excavation teams that continue to explore the Olduvai Gorge.

Experience Macau up close: The best sights

PatrickJullien
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Experience Macau up close: The best sights

For over 400 years, the former Portuguese colony of Macau has shared its semi-autonomous status with Hong Kong, but has its own laid-back charm. The region’s unique Eurasian heritage is evident in many areas: local cuisine (often referred to as one of the earliest fusion cuisines in the world), architecture, customs, and language. And Macau’s historic squares, peaceful parks and beachfronts, despite their manageable size, are a destination for adventurers of all kinds. Which highlights are particularly worthwhile can be found here.

While the use of online casino offers has risen sharply in recent years, players in Macau are entering the glittering world of real roulette, blackjack and poker. Because it is not for nothing that Macau is called the “Las Vegas of Asia”. The so-called “Cotai Strip” is particularly recommended here. Because it is this piece of land that makes Macau a gambling metropolis. The Strip’s luxury casino resorts offer everything your heart desires. In addition to glamorous restaurants and clubs, there is even an indoor canal where visitors can take romantic rides in gondolas. From the gigantic Venetian, which is practically a city in its own right, to the Hollywood-style Studio City with an impressive Ferris wheel, the casinos are a breathtaking world of experience even for people who don’t want to gamble.

As suspected, entertainment lovers in Macau are in for a treat. So fans of epic love stories will also get their money’s worth. Macau is home to the world’s largest water stage show. With the help of a 14-million-liter pool, thousands of visitors marvel at the acrobatics and acting of the famous “House of Dancing Water”, which was not only written but also conducted by Franco Dragone, director of Cirque du Soleil. Since there is hardly a comparable spectacle anywhere in the world, it is at the top of most travelers’ must-see lists. And because the show is very popular, you should book tickets online in advance. By the way: The construction of the water theater took 19 months and cost over 250 million US dollars.

History buffs can experience the complete contrast to the glittering world of the “Cotai Strip” in Macau. For example, in “Coloane Village”, a picturesque village on the south coast of Coloane. Its cobblestone streets and charming houses offer not only peace and serenity, but also a magnificent panorama for holiday photos. Because the pretty buildings that line up in the black sand of “Hac Sa Beach” shine in the colors of the rainbow. By the way, this is also where the “Lord Stow’s Bakery” is located, where the best Portuguese egg cakes are supposedly offered. There’s even more history in the historic center of Macau, which is now also a UNESCO World Heritage Site . Over 20 historically significant landmarks can be found here, such as statues, public squares and military barracks.

What makes Macau so unique is the Eurasian flair, i.e. the mixing of Portuguese and Chinese cultures. In addition to many European remnants from the colonial era, there are also many highlights of Asian origin to discover. This is also the case with the small, rustic fishing village of Taipa, which is located between Chinese temples. Particularly popular is the pedestrian zone “Rua do Cunha”, which is also celebrated as the culinary hotspot. Traditional food stalls, grocery stores, bakeries and many other shops are lined up here. What you should definitely try are the “serradurra”, a kind of pudding, almond biscuits, Chinese dishes with seared pork and the famous peanut candies.

Rua do Cunha, Macau
Entrance to Rua do Cunha in Macau, Image: Francesco Bonino / shutterstock

Not only gourmets, but also art lovers will not miss out in Macau. Because there is also an extremely large art collection here. The Macau Museum of Art is housed in a five-story building and is Macau’s only art museum with works by local and international artists of all eras. Best of all, admission is completely free and visitors are allowed to stay in the museum as long as they want. And if that’s too boring for you, visit the AJ Hackett Tower, named after the man who “invented” bungee jumping. So it’s no surprise that it’s home to a sophisticated, commercial bungee jump facility that offers travelers the ultimate thrill.

Tip: If you are exploring Macau, you should also pay a visit to Hong Kong, which is only 70 kilometers away. By ferry, the journey takes just under an hour.

 

10 tips on how to ensure maximum comfort when camping

PatrickJullien
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10 tips on how to ensure maximum comfort when camping

If you don’t want to miss out on a little luxury when camping, you should consider a few things and plan a little differently than for a minimalist camping trip in the open air. Below we have summarized ten tips for you to help you make the camping trip as comfortable as possible.

1. Choose the perfect spot

The be-all and end-all of camping is the right place. You should pitch the tent in a quiet, dry and soft place, ideally well protected from the wind. As a result, it is quieter at night, the wind does not whistle and sitting and kneeling on the floor is more comfortable. Sharp stones and branches on the ground should be removed from the lying surface beforehand and filled with some soil and/or grass.

2. Various relaxation options

If you not only make your bed comfortable, but there are also different living areas around the tent to sit and lie down, you ensure maximum comfort at all times. For example, a hammock, comfortable seating and blankets are recommended to keep it soft and warm when it gets a little cooler.

Gadgets & Co.

Today, there are a variety of useful little gadgets that make camping life easier. They range from headlamps, quick-drying towels and foldable cooking pots to camping stoves that can charge the smartphone at the same time. Keep an eye out for various useful tools and tools to help you in your everyday camping life.

4. As you make your bed, so you lie

You should not be satisfied with a thin sleeping mat and a simple sleeping bag. If you really want to sleep comfortably, camp beds, air beds and thick sleeping mats are much more comfortable. Paired with a high-quality sleeping bag, you can create your own cozy bed in the tent. However, we recommend that you take a closer look at the different sleeping options in advance and take a look at one or the other air bed or camp bed test . This way you can ensure that the overnight accommodation keeps its promises.

5. Manual Coffee/Espresso Machine

This tip is certainly particularly interesting for coffee lovers, because many do without their beloved hot drink when camping. There are manual espresso and coffee machines that can be used to make excellent coffee simply with boiled water. Without electricity, without much effort and with guaranteed enjoyment; this makes the morning much more pleasant for coffee lovers.

6. Choose a campsite wisely

If you are staying at a campsite, you should of course choose it carefully. Make sure that as many amenities as possible are available, such as showers, power supply, etc. There may also be a small swimming lake and other activities such as table tennis, bicycle rental, etc. 5-star campsites offer the best facilities and the highest quality.

7. Prepare for bad weather days

Comfort at the campsite
Romantic atmosphere while camping, Image: AlexMaster / shutterstock

If you plan in advance – even in summer – with at least two days of bad weather, you will be less annoyed if it actually rains or storms. Take enough activities (especially for children) with you, make yourself comfortable in the tent and enjoy the time despite the bad weather. This is easier if you firmly expect it.

8. Romantic atmosphere

We recommend taking blankets, comfortable camping chairs, candles as well as awnings and a folding table. So you can make yourself really comfortable in the tent in bad weather and in the evening at the campfire when the weather is nice. This is not only comfortable, but also romantic and relaxing.

9. Exceptional food

First-class menus can also be conjured up on the campsite. A camping oven with an integrated oven is certainly a highlight, because pizzas, casseroles and the like can also be prepared here. With a folding grill as an addition, not much can go wrong and you can let off steam even as an amateur chef and create extraordinary menus, making the holiday unforgettable.

10. Wi-Fi hotspot

If you don’t want to do without Netflix, Amazon Prime & Co. while camping, it may be worth setting up a mobile hotspot. For this purpose, there are so-called MiFi routers, which are equipped with their own SIM card. You can then simply dial in via tablet and smartphone.

Result

Camping is not necessarily uncomfortable and with the right preparation you can make your camping holiday very pleasant and comfortable. You don’t have to miss out on anything, so that the camping trip can also become a little luxury break from everyday life.

The most important things are small useful gadgets, sensible cooking facilities, a comfortable, wind- and weather-protected place to sleep, warmth and comfortable seating and lounging. If you also prepare for bad weather days, your holiday will certainly not fall through and become an unforgettable experience.

 

Holidays in Milos

PatrickJullien
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Holidays in Milos

The Greek island of Milos is located in the southern Aegean Sea and belongs to the Cyclades archipelago. With a total area of about 160 square kilometers, the population of the island is about 5,000 people and the island is therefore comparatively densely populated. A special feature of Milos is the construction of the houses called Syrmata directly on the water’s edge, in order to use the ground floor as a safe parking place for the fishing boat in the winter months. The often brightly painted gates of this Syrmata make for a unique sight in the villages of the island.

Milos is the site of the world-famous Venus de Milo, which is currently on display at the Louvre in Paris . A copy can be seen in the on-site Archaeological Museum.
The island is almost completely enclosed by an extensive bay, which is lined with the few harbour villages. The beaches in the flatter eastern part of the island are known for the different colouring of their rocks and sand.

Sights on Milos

Sarakiniko, Milos
Sarakiniko beach on Milos, Image: Josef Skacel / shutterstock

Milos still ranks among the insider tips and is relatively unknown in Germany , although there is a lot to discover there. In addition to history and culture, there are also beautiful white beaches on Milos. The Greeks call the island an island for lovers and it enjoys a high degree of fame among Greeks. Romance is definitely provided on Milos.

The fishing villages of Klima are densely packed directly by the sea and are partly carved into the rock like small caves. Their sometimes colourful paint makes them a popular photo motif during a relaxing walk along the coast. Especially the sun of the evening hours makes the colors shine.

The port city of Polonia is the port of call for ferries and thus the hub for ferry connections with Kimolos. Despite a population of 300, the place is very lively and, in addition to the harbour mile and the beach, also has numerous accommodations for a holiday on Milos. Polonia is best known for its bars and restaurants, all within easy walking distance.

One of the most romantic places on Milos is the mountain village of Plaka. On the hill at the church of the village, a fantastic view opens up to the horizon and is one of the most beautiful views the island has to offer. In the morning or evening hours, idyllic sunrises and sunsets can be enjoyed here.

Café Utopia opens every evening for this purpose and offers its guests a sundowner for a plus in enjoyment.

As witnesses of history, there are three windmills in the landscape between Plaka and Tripiti, all of which offer a beautiful view of the island, whose name Milos means mill in Greek. In the Mining Museum of the island’s capital Adamas, tourists can learn about the arduous work in mining and marvel at the high number of treasures found in the earth. On its upper floors is this amazing collection of minerals on display.

The fishing village of Firopotamos, located on the outskirts of Milos, has no sights to offer in the true sense of the word. On the other hand, the tranquil place can boast clear water and a silence that is rarely found on Milos. Firopotamos is the ideal retreat from the hustle and bustle of the tourist hotspots and is ideal for unwinding.

The lunar landscape of Sarakiniko is the most famous attraction of the island due to the bizarre rock formations and the cliff divers.

Beaches

Plaka, Milos
The picturesque village of Plaka, Image: Nikolaos Tamvakis / shutterstock

The colourful rocks on Firiplaka beach are a real eye-catcher and frame it along its entire length. The beach offers bars and the possibility of renting sun loungers and umbrellas. Sports enthusiasts can either climb the rocks or bathe in the water in front of them.

For adventurers, the beach of Tsigrado is suitable. It can only be reached from the land side via a rope, which is located in a narrow crevice and is rarely found in this form worldwide. Those who take on the arduous journey to the beach will be rewarded with a fantastic sight. With its turquoise blue water and grottoes, it is reminiscent of paradisiacal beaches in tropical regions.

Divers who want to explore a unique underwater world should consider diving off Paliochori Beach. Due to the sulphur springs in the region, the sea is red in one place and it is home to other species of fish compared to other beaches on the island. Paliochori is one of the most popular beaches on the island and opens up the possibility of many types of water sports. The partially
The red rocks of Paliochori are a unique sight and attract numerous tourists.
The beach on the lunar landscape of Sarakiniko is undoubtedly the highlight of Milos due to its unique rock formations, which provide a fascinating coloring of the sea. Bathers can not only swim off the coast, but also jump into the sea from the iconic rocks.

The longest beach on Milos is Achivadolimni Beach. It has a lot of sand and shady trees along its entire length. Due to its proximity to the road to Adamas, it is easily accessible and due to its dimensions you are less crowded there. The fine sandy beach slopes gently into the sea and is well suited for children and older bathers.

Getting to Milos

There is an airport on Milos, but it is only served once or four times a day by propeller planes from Athens . A direct flight to Milos is not possible, but requires a stopover.

There are regular ferry connections to Milos by ferry from Piraeus or Santorini .

How the pandemic will change air travel

PatrickJullien
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How the pandemic will change air travel

The beginning of 2021 is also marked by the pandemic. Travel to foreign countries is severely restricted. But what impact will Covid-19 have on our future air travel? We spoke to Sergio Colella, President of SITA for Europe (SITA is the world’s leading specialist in communication and information technology in aviation) about measures and future technology.

Mr. Colella, the year 2020 stands for orphaned airports, unsafe passengers and empty hotels. Even for the 2021 high season, the vaccination measures that have now been launched are probably still too early.

What measures are planned in the aviation industry to give passengers a good feeling about booking a flight in 2021?
To date, the aviation industry’s focus in the field of safety has mainly focused on aircraft and safety procedures. After 9/11, we began to consider “anti-terrorism” measures as an essential aspect of passenger safety. Today, as a result of the Corona pandemic, just as much attention is suddenly being paid to people’s health during their travels. The aim is to keep the risk of infection to a minimum in the mass operation of an airport. SITA is constantly working on technology solutions to enable almost completely contactless travel. Ideally, the passenger arrives at the airport and is “ready to fly”. At airports in Beijing and Miami , your own face as a boarding pass is enough to get through the airport without contact.

There is also SITA Airport Management technology, which tracks the flow of passengers at every turn and then provides concrete insights in real time. This allows airports to recognize where passengers are moving and develop guidance systems. The density of people must be proactively controlled, as well as social distancing in day-to-day operations and, in the long term, in planning.

New automatic border control kiosks will collect high-quality biometric data and ensure more effective control of entry conditions into the EU. At the same time, they will shorten waiting times for travellers.

Electronic health certificates are also possible – analogous to electronic visas, which are linked to the traveler’s passport number in the computers of the border guards. Vaccinations or current health tests could be noted in it. In order to be able to enjoy the freedom to travel as before, we must be willing to reveal more information about our health.

In summary: Social distancing, contactless travel, health visas and border controls are possibly the most important measures that will be taken in the aviation industry in 2021.

Sergio Colella, President of SITA for Europe, Image: SITA

What options are there – also with regard to digitization – to avoid interpersonal contact at check-in as much as possible?
We always recommend taking advantage of the technologies already available to complete the travel steps, before Travelers reach the airport and use the automated passenger solutions that allow them to complete the steps without touching surfaces in the airport. It’s a safer and often much faster way to get through the airport. Basically, the smartphone becomes a travel remote control. This means digital check-in from home, boarding card on the smartphone, checking in luggage yourself and no longer at the counter, biometric systems such as facial recognition, instead of passport control, will become more and more a matter of course in the near future.

At Beijing’s BCIA Airport this year, we integrated the SITA Smart Path, which means that all passenger handling has been automated with SITA technology, including check-in, baggage handling, entry and exit, security and boarding.
Passengers only have to register once at check-in and can then easily get through the airport thanks to facial recognition. It has already been proven that it can significantly speed up handling at Beijing Airport: More than 400 passengers of an Airbus A380 were on board in less than 20 minutes. The more efficient handling shortens waiting times for all passengers and allows them more social distancing. Another advantage in COVID-19 times is that airport equipment no longer has to be touched, which reduces the risk of infection.

The SITA Smart-Path is already being implemented at other major airports around the world and in a few years, this process will not be an exception, but the norm worldwide.

What are the implications of applying low-touch technology to flight safety?
Especially in times of the Corona pandemic, the uncertainty of air travelers is of course high. Of course, the low-touch technology has no direct influence on politically decided travel restrictions or flight cancellations. But it can help to regain the trust of passengers, which is SITA’s ultimate goal this year and next.

Air passengers want to travel again, but also demand the best possible protective measures on site at the airport, as well as on the plane itself. Our low-touch technologies make a significant contribution to regaining the trust of airline passengers and ensuring the best possible safety for their health. These include distancing, hygiene and sanitation, as well as controlling the health of passengers. Even with new vaccines, the industry will continue to exercise caution to reassure passengers.

A positive side effect is, of course, that annoying waiting times are reduced and processing takes place much more efficiently.


What preventive measures are planned “on board” in the future to protect the health of passengers in the best possible way?

Trust is being built on board by increasingly providing passengers with 4G data networks and Wi-Fi to eliminate the need for impersonal touchpoints, such as screens in the backrest, and to facilitate social distancing.
The usual precautions such as wearing a mouth-nose protection, washing hands or regularly disinfecting the vehicle interior will remain essential for the time being.

Many airlines have also greatly reduced their food offerings during short-haul flights to avoid many passengers consuming next to each other at the same time without mouth and nose protection.

In your environment, there was recently talk of “digital passports”. Can you tell us more about it?
We expect the development of a digital identity to replace the traditional passport in the coming years.

In the longer term, there are initiatives that allow travelers to store their identity credentials on their smartphones. The International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) is working on a digital travel document derived from the ePassport issued by your government, which can be stored in a secure wallet on your smartphone.

Future travelers will be able to securely exchange their IDs with governments, airports, and airlines from their phone and under their control, while ensuring the protection of their personal information. SITA is partnering with the Sovrin Foundation, an international non-profit organization that is exploring the use of blockchain technology for this purpose. The Sovrin initiative promises a solution that could be the basis for how we travel in the future.

How do you think the numbers of air travelers will develop in the coming months and years?
Based on all the predictions of well-known associations such as IATA, ERA and ACI, passenger numbers will most likely not return to 2019 levels until 2024.

Vaccines and testing are expected to prop global travel to 50% of 2019 levels in 2021, with significant increases later in the year.

 

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