All about travel

Sights in Vienna

Austria

PatrickJullien

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20. July 2021

Vienna is the capital and at the same time the most populous city in Austria. The Danube city still convinces today with a variety of sights that reflect an eventful history and glorious past. Below you will find a list of the most important sights in Vienna.

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St. Stephen’s Cathedral

Austria, Vienna State Opera — The Vienna State Opera, Image: Guniva / shutterstock

St. Stephen’s Cathedral is located on Vienna’s Stephansplatz and is considered the city’s most famous landmark. Its name goes back to Saint Stephen, who is considered the first Christian martyr. The main tower of the building, the South Tower, is 136.44 meters high. The cathedral has a total of four towers and 13 bells. The most famous bell, the Pummerin, is the second largest free-swinging ranged bell in Europe. On the roof, the Austrian double eagle, the Viennese coat of arms and the coat of arms of Austria, are depicted in colorful tiles. The interior of the cathedral has been constantly changed over the course of many centuries.

Prater and Ferris wheel

The Vienna Prater is known for its Ferris wheel located at the northwestern tip. However, the Prater itself consists of a spacious park. The Vienna Giant Ferris Wheel was built between 1896 and 1897 on the occasion of the 60th anniversary of Emperor Franz Josef I’s accession to the throne. It has been preserved ever since.

Belvedere Palace

The Baroque Belvedere Palace was built for Prince Eugene of Savoy. It is divided into the Upper and Lower Belvedere and, together with the associated Baroque gardens, forms a magnificent overall picture. Today, the palace houses the collection of the Austrian Belvedere Gallery and changing art exhibitions in various rooms.

Hofburg

The Vienna Hofburg was the Viennese residence of the Habsburgs from the 13th century until 1918. It has been the official residence of the Austrian Federal President since 1945. This is where most of the Austrian National Library is located, museums such as the Albertina, the Hofburg Chapel, the Augustinian Church and the Federal Monuments Office. A highlight is the Sisi Museum, which depicts the true personality of the famous empress. Another highlight are the imperial apartments of Emperor Franz Joseph and Empress Elisabeth.

Albertina

The Albertina is located in the Albrechtspalais, right next to the Hofburg. It is one of the most important museums in the world. In addition to permanent exhibitions, the Albertina also houses works by changing exhibitions by various artists. So if you buy Dogecoin in Austria and are successful with it, you might be able to acquire one of the beautiful works.

Schönbrunn Palace and the Carriage Museum

Schönbrunn Palace was built between 1638 and 1643 as a residence for Empress Eleonora Gonzaga. It is open to guests all year round and can be visited. On its grounds is the Imperial Carriage Museum, a museum in which carriages from the fleet of the Austrian emperors and other noble houses can be seen.

Schönbrunn Zoo

Schönbrunn Zoo was founded in 1752 and is the oldest zoo in the world that exists today. The zoo was created by Francis Stephen of Lorraine. He commissioned an architect, also from Lorraine, to build a menagerie (then the name of a zoo) in the park of the Schönbrunn Residence. The park was opened in 1852. Today, 8,775 animals live here on an area of 17 hectares.

Kunsthistorisches Museum

The Kunsthistorisches Museum contains a huge collection of paintings, antiques, coins, weapons, books and musical instruments. The Kunsthistorisches Museum also includes other museums, such as the Treasury of the Hofburg or the Carriage Museum of Schönbrunn.

House of the Sea

The House of the Sea is a zoo specializing in marine animals. There are various aquariums and terrariums where sharks, rays, turtles as well as tropical and domestic fish and other marine animals live. In addition to the animals, the “Café ocean’sky” offers a view over the city of Vienna.

House of Music

The Vienna House of Music is located in the middle of Vienna’s old town in the palace of Archduke Carl. Visitors will gain an intensive insight into the entire world of music, from sound production to contemporary music.

Vienna City Hall

One of Vienna’s landmarks and at the same time a masterpiece of neo-Gothic architecture is the Vienna City Hall. Its five towers are remarkable, including the 98-metre-high main tower in the middle. The offices of the mayor, the governor, the municipal council and the state parliament are still located here.

Danube Tower

The observation tower was built between 1962 and 1964 on the occasion of the International Vienna Garden Show, which was taking place at the time.

Museumsquartier

Built in 1725 as the imperial court stables, the building complex was converted into the Trade Fair Palace in 1922. In 1998, another conversion into the Museumsquartier began. The following are located here:

the Museum Moderne Kunst Stiftung Ludwig,
the Leopold Museum,
the Kunsthalle Wien,
Tanzquartier Wien,
the Architecture Centre,
the jungle of Vienna,
the ZOOM Children’s Museum,
the wienXtra children’s info and
Hall E+G for music and performing arts.

Holidays in Riccione

Italy

PatrickJullien

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8. July 2021

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If you are traveling in the province of Rimini in northeastern Italy, you should definitely pay an extensive visit to the small town of Riccione. The city of 35,000 inhabitants in the middle of Emilia Romagna, which is located directly on the beautiful Adriatic Sea, has been an extremely popular holiday destination for many years – both for tourists from all over the world and for locals. Especially in the summer months, many people from near and far cavort on the popular Adriatic beaches.

Both children and adults feel right at home in the region. During the day, the wide range of water sports such as diving, water skiing or sailing are used just as intensively as the beaches for swimming, having fun and relaxing. On the many balmy summer nights, the beach sections belong mainly to the many young people who regularly celebrate exuberant parties here to rhythmic music. So there really is something for every holidaymaker. In addition, the Riccione region is also a very popular starting point for extended bike tours, climbing tours and extensive hikes.

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Aquafan: The largest water park in Europe

Aquafan Riccione — The Aquafan water park in Riccione, Image: Serhiy Chaiko / shutterstock

An absolute tourist magnet in the region is Aquafan. The largest water park in all of Europe covers an area of about 100,000 square meters and attracts several 100,000 visitors every year. Inaugurated in 1987, the park has numerous attractions for children and adults in and around the water. Among them are several spectacular slides with a total length of about three kilometers. Other attractions of the water park include the Extreme River and a huge wave pool.

To relax, guests at Aquafan have several spacious green areas at their disposal. And if you want to party, Aquafan is also the right place for you. After all, the largest foam party in the world with the best and most famous DJs regularly takes place here. Another large water and nature park, known far beyond Italy’s borders, is the Oltremare. Here, among other things, dolphins can be found in their natural habitat in the largest lagoon in Europe. The outdoor park is also a popular refuge for rare birds such as snowy owls, eagles or eagle owls.

The park is a great destination for families with children looking for action and adventure as well as for nature lovers. Holidaymakers will find countless different accommodations in and around Riccione – from several luxurious five-star hotels to small holiday apartments for the small budget. In addition, there are three large campsites available on the coastal city on the Adriatic Sea for the numerous camping tourists from all over Europe. And the range of restaurants, bars, discotheques and clubs is also very large in the region. Of course, there is always something going on on the large promenade as well as on the sandy beaches.

Church of San Martino, Castello di Gradara or Arch of Augustus: Sights in and around Riccione

Sunset in Riccione — Riccione is also one of the most popular travel destinations among Italians, Image: TinoFotografie / shutterstock

If you are looking for sights and photo motifs on holiday, Riccione is also the right place for you. The church of San Martino, the impressive Congress Palace or the Palazzo del Turismo are definitely worth seeing. And there is also a lot to see and experience at the gates of the town. An absolute must for tourists in the region is a visit to Rimini. The capital of the province of the same name also has some beautiful sights to offer in addition to the world-famous beaches. Among other things, you can walk in the narrow streets on the numerous traces of the ancient Romans. Among other things, you should see the large Arch of Augustus, the oldest Roman arch still in existence.

Not far away is the Castello di Gradara. The impressive medieval fortress is also a must-see if you are travelling in the region. Around Riccione you will also find numerous impressive natural landscapes. Because of the many cycle paths, the region is also a popular destination for cycling holidaymakers. If you feel like it and are looking for sporting challenges on holiday, you can complete several mountain bike tours with different levels of difficulty here.

Beachline Festival and KOMM-MIT football tournaments

Athletes and sports fans from all over Europe will also get their money’s worth in and around Riccione. For example, the largest beach volleyball camp in Europe takes place every year in the week after Easter. At the “Beachline Festival”, more than 1,000 participants are at the start. For youth footballers from all over Europe, the international youth football tournaments of KOMM MIT are always a real highlight. Here, too, several thousand young people from all over Europe take part every year. Especially in the summer months, concerts, festivals and theatre performances take place regularly in the region.

Montreux – Scenic holiday on Lake Geneva

Switzerland

PatrickJullien

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3. July 2021

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Montreux – Scenic holiday on Lake Geneva

A fantastic view of the picturesque Lake Geneva is promised by the urban shore scenery near Montreux. The Swiss lakeside city is one of the popular tourist destinations on the shores of the water, which is located in the southwest of Switzerland. Located on the largest lake in Switzerland, Montreux is surrounded by the majestic panorama of the Vaud Alps. In addition to the local sights, Montreux is a wonderful place to get to know the surroundings of the fascinating Lake Geneva in more detail. If you are looking for a holiday idyll on the shores of the lake, Montreux offers an excellent scenery with lake and mountain panoramas as well as cultural flair.

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The cultural roots of Montreux

Even in prehistoric and ancient Roman times, the region of Lake Geneva and today’s Montreux was considered a lively area – for example, a historic Roman villa was discovered in the region. According to today’s assumptions, the city of Montreux owes its name to the Latin word monasterium, which means monastery and refers to the city’s sacred past – in the Middle Ages, the region was temporarily subordinate to the Abbey of Saint-Maurice. Modern Montreux has its roots in the 19th century, and the fascinating municipality developed early on as a tourist and cultural hotspot on Lake Geneva. For example, today’s urban region of Montreux has long exerted a magnetic aura on great personalities – in the meantime, 18. and 19th century Jean-Jacques Rousseau and Lord Byron. Because the idyll on Lake Geneva is undoubtedly one of the most fascinating places in Europe’s lake landscapes.

The main activities and sights near Montreux

When the wonderful view of the Alps and the lake in Montreux unfolds, many visitors have one thought above all: enjoy the panorama on a relaxing walk. There is hardly a better place in Montreux than the scenic waterfront promenade, which offers a picturesque view of the region. It is one of the highlights within the city that should not be missed. But another thought comes to mind: why not get to know Lake Geneva for yourself? For example, a boat or boat tour along Lake Geneva is a good way for visitors to get to know the region from a central perspective.

Not far from the shores of Montreux lies the small island of Île de Chillon, which has one of the most fascinating buildings in the region. Chillon Castle is enthroned here, a medieval moated castle whose roots date back to the 12th century. The popular photo motif is not only one of the most impressive historical walls in the region, but against the backdrop of the mighty Alps, the building has already inspired numerous historical paintings. As a counterpoint to Chillon Castle, another historic building is enthroned on the hills near Montreux – the Château du Châtelard, a small castle from the 15th century surrounded by green landscape with vines.

Montreux’s local mountain is the limestone-rich elevation of the Rochers de Naye, which rises up to 2042 metres above the panorama of Lake Geneva and Montreux. One of the popular excursions on site is a ride on the cogwheel train to the mountain landscape of the Rochers de Naye. Here you can enjoy a fantastic view of the mountainous lake region. One last highlight of the city is closely linked to the magnetic aura for stars: the statue of Freddy Mercury. Mercury had a great passion for the city and region, lived here for many years – even at the end of his life – and had a recording studio here with his legendary band Queen, where some of their famous musical works were created. The statue has not only gained cult status among fans of the famous singer of the band Queen. Today, the Freddie Mercury Memorial is considered a central attraction of Montreux.

Music and stars in Montreux

Statue Freddie Mercury, Montreux — Statue of Freddie Mercury in front of the dreamlike backdrop of Lake Geneva, Image: Emanuela Vigna / shutterstock

Music fans also know the city of Montreux on Lake Geneva for another reason – the Montreux Jazz Festival. Launched by the music and culture manager Claude Nobs, the festivity has been held annually in Montreux in July since 1967. Today, it is one of the most important jazz festivals in the world and has a great musical influence beyond the musical genre. Not only jazz greats such as Ella Fitzgerald, Herbie Hancock or Pat Metheny performed here, but also world-famous artists and bands such as Deep Purple, Frank Zappa, Led Zeppelin, James Brown or Simon & Garfunkel did not miss a performance at the festival in Montreux. The Swiss city of Montreux proves that it is so much more than just an idyllic holiday resort on Lake Geneva. Montreux is a cultural and cultural-historical highlight among the cities of Switzerland.

Beautiful excursion destinations in the area

One of the prominent neighbouring towns of Montreux is the settlement of Vevey, which is just under 8 km away. The city is considered the pinnacle of wine culture on Lake Geneva – this is also commemorated by the traditional winegrowers’ festival Fête des Vignerons, which takes place here every 25 years or so. Vevey has a similarly important history as Montreux in terms of stars and starlets. Not only did Dostoyevsky write segments of his story The Idiot here, the British writer Graham Greene spent the last moments of his life here – as did Charlie Chaplin, who lived here in a villa and to whom a Chaplin statue is now dedicated on site. From Montreux to Vevey you can also go on a hike. Basically, Lake Geneva presents ideal conditions for distinctive hikes. Whether culture or scenic nature – Montreux and the surrounding area promise a holiday in fantastic surroundings. The stars also felt at home here.

Wellness holiday – a completely different kind of relaxation

All about travel

PatrickJullien

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1. July 2021

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Wellness holiday – a completely different kind of relaxation

Wellness has been a term for several years now, which is always used when it comes to doing something good for yourself, your body and your soul. And that means a holiday far away from disturbing influences. Wellness holiday in the tranquility of nature. However, the term wellness is not an invention of the modern age. The word appeared in the Oxford dictionary as early as 1654 as “wealnesse” and was translated as “good health”. From this , Halbert Dunn, an American social physician, developed the word wellness in the 1950s, a neologism from the two English terms wellbeing and fitness. He focused on positive health and distanced himself from what is still understood by health today, namely not being sick.

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Nutritional awareness and fitness

However, his wellness idea was initially not well received. The idea that diseases do not stand on their own, but must be seen in a context, seemed too far-fetched. Dunn knew that lifestyle, environment, working conditions and social relationships have a major influence on the development of diseases and their causes. It was not until the 1970s that Dunn received support from two American colleagues: Dr. John W. Travis and Donald B. Ardell. They defined the term wellness more precisely. According to her, wellness is an attitude to life that consists of satisfaction and well-being. To achieve this state, several factors are required: nutritional awareness, fitness, stress management and self-responsibility. This holistic approach, as it can also be found in alternative medicine, is intended to lead to the harmony of soul, mind and body. Halbert Dunn is the father of the wellness movement, but Travis and Ardell gave it the right momentum to worldwide popularity. Although it took until the 1980s for the concept to find its way to Europe.

The focus is on one’s own needs

Today, wellness holidays in Germany are absolutely trendy. Those who treat themselves to this form of vacation want more than beach and sun, but rather focus on themselves and their needs. The offers of wellness hotels are extensive: nutrition, fitness, relaxation, massages, sauna, spas and much more are included in this all-round wellness package. If you can, you can not only treat yourself to a weekend in a wellness oasis, but also say goodbye for a week or even two.

Nature and tranquility

The most important thing for a relaxing wellness holiday is undoubtedly the environment. No matter how many massages, sauna sessions or yoga exercises are offered. They are of no use if it takes place in a hotel on a busy street. Therefore, it is the top priority: Pay attention to the location of the wellness oasis. Whether at a lake, in the mountains, in the park or in the forest. The main thing is peace and lots of nature. This is the only way to create the freedom and to blow your mind through in healthy air outside of the treatments. Be it jogging, cycling or just going for a walk.

Vitality cuisine as a wellness principle

By the way, good wellness hotels can be recognised, among other things, by the fact that they run a so-called vitality kitchen according to the wellness principle. This means that the menu must include wholesome dishes as well as vegetarian or vegan dishes. Fruit and vegetables must be fresh and organically grown, meat must come from species-appropriate animal husbandry. And of course, the chef takes into account the wishes and preferences of his guests.

No compulsion to do anything

The range of services offered by a wellness hotel is usually very extensive. This starts with massages and does not end with the sauna. However, if you decide to take this kind of time-out, you should make sure from the beginning that you don’t sign up for every sports and yoga program, hop from one massage table to another and do three sauna sessions a day. Stress has no access to the wellness paradise. In addition, wellness is a very individual matter. Everyone has different ideas about such a time-out and can put together their own desired program. If you want to swim at noon, good. If you just want to spend a day in a deck chair in the park, that’s fine. And if you put on your jogging shoes early in the morning and want to end the evening with a glass of wine. Optimally. No one should feel forced to do anything. No matter what is offered. If you don’t feel like fitness equipment or a massage with the hot stones, just don’t do it. A wellness holiday is about very individual needs. And these should be taken into account.

Wellness thoughts in everyday life

Every holiday comes to an end. But the idea of wellness, as Halbert Dunn had formulated it, should definitely be taken with you into your stressful everyday life. Such a stay gives food for thought for the time afterwards. It teaches the art of a balanced lifestyle, conveys a harmonious relationship between active and passive, offers incentives for healthy eating and shows the way to physical fitness. And if work threatens to devour you again in the meantime, you can book your next wellness holiday to recharge your batteries.

Bibione – Italy’s diverse holiday paradise

Italy

PatrickJullien

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29. June 2021

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Bibione – Italy’s diverse holiday paradise

Located on the right bank of the Tagliamento River, the town of San Michele Al Tagliamento is rather unknown, but the Bibione district is known worldwide and is considered a true holiday paradise for all ages and types of holidaymakers. Since the 1950s, the seaside resort has been magically attracting sun worshippers and those hungry for relaxation and inspires with its wonderful sandy beach, a good tourist infrastructure and excellent excursion opportunities.

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Holidays between beach and pine forests

Lighthouse of Bibione, Image: AerialVision_it / shutterstock

The popular resort of Bibione comes alive during the holiday season. With only 3,000 inhabitants and over 100,000 places to stay for holidaymakers, Bibione is very quiet out of season. But in the summer months, the resort delights with its extensive sandy beach, pine forests, a variety of hotels, holiday resorts, campsites, restaurants and bars and discos. Depending on your personal preferences, you can spend your holidays in Bibione very individually, as the lively resort offers suitable opportunities for every type of holiday.

Bibione – pure beach fun

Bibione’s 11-kilometre-long sandy beach offers plenty of space to sunbathe and relax, and at the same time there is plenty of space for sporting activities and for children who want to enjoy their stay on the family-friendly beach while playing and romping. Depending on the stretch of beach, there are also entertainment programmes for children and adults, so you are guaranteed not to get bored. While the beach at Bibione Spiaggia is ideal for families and offers a very good infrastructure and many sports and leisure facilities, the beach at Lido del Sole is much quieter and invites you to relax.

Beach in Bibione — The extensive beach of Bibione, Image: Climber 1959 / shutterstock

The beach section of Lido di Pini and Bibione Pineda is particularly idyllic, because here the beach is surrounded by shady pine trees. There are 6 first aid stations spread over the entire length of the beach and the beach is supervised by lifeguards. In addition, there are 6 service islands with changing rooms, toilets, showers and much more. Water sports enthusiasts can work out with surfing, sailing, kayaking, diving and many other activities. In addition, on the beach at Bibione Spiaggia there are courts for bocce, tennies, football, beach volleyball and other sports. On the beach there are also some playgrounds for children, who can quickly come into contact with their peers.

Bibione Thermal Baths

Picturesquely surrounded by pine trees, the state-approved Bibione thermal baths attract visitors with its wide range of spa, wellness and beauty treatments. The complex with its indoor thermal pools and a large outdoor area with thermal pools offers a magnificent view of the sea. The 52 ° C warm, mineral-rich thermal water also ensured that the level of awareness of Bibione was significantly increased beyond the borders of Italy. Today, the spa also scores with saunas, a hypersaline bath, a Turkish bath, a polarium, experience showers and a salt grotto.

Sights and attractions in and around Bibione

As a touristic place, Bibione itself offers only a few sights. However, if you are exploring the town, it is worth stopping at the Chiesa Santa Maria Assunta. Also worth seeing is the historic lighthouse of Bibione, which can be found directly at the mouth of the Tagliamento and is surrounded by a nature reserve and is a nice destination for a short hike. A very nice way to explore Bibione and the surrounding area is to take a bike ride, because the inner-city cycle path leads to the most beautiful places in Bibione and runs from east to west along the seafront. On this occasion, it is worth visiting the historic fishermen’s huts.

One of the attractions for families is the Luna Park in Bibione. The amusement park with its nostalgic rides inspires its visitors just as much as the Parco Zoo Punta Verde, which presents animal species from all over the world with its large, well-kept facility. Fun for the whole family is also guaranteed by a visit to the Unicef Adventure Park in Lignano Sabbiadoro. The Parco Junior also attracts visitors with play facilities for small children.

Excursions from Bibione

A holiday in Bibione can be crowned with a trip to the lagoon city of Venice . Here, unique sights such as the Basilica of San Marco and the Doge’s Palace beckon. But a trip to Trieste with its fantastic historical sights is also extremely worthwhile not only for art lovers. But the towns of Concordia, Sagittaria and Aquileia, located near Bibione, also attract visitors with unique sights and allow you to walk in the footsteps of Italian history. Around Bibione, for example, you can marvel at an ancient forum, a Roman inland port, basilicas and many other historical gems, such as the Abbey of Santa Maria in Sesto Al Reghena or the Palazzi Signorili monastery complex in Cordovado. In addition, there are numerous museums that beckon, such as the Museo Paleontologico, which offers a glimpse into history.

Tips for a relaxed trip with pets

All about travel

PatrickJullien

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28. June 2021

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Survey shows: Most pet owners take their pet with them on vacation in 2021

After the pet boom in Corona times, more pet owners than ever are asking themselves questions such as: What do you need to consider when choosing a destination? And what do I have to do to make the trip a positive experience for my pet as well? The World Animal Welfare Society (WTG) gives tips and reveals which destinations are particularly popular for holidaymakers with animals this year.

A survey of more than 1,000 pet owners by the World Animal Welfare Society (WTG) has shown that almost 60 percent of respondents are planning a trip with an animal this year. When animals accompany their owners on vacation, they are overwhelmingly dogs (94 percent). All other animals are far less common on trips. The most common among them is the cat (4 percent), followed by horses and guinea pigs (each under 1 percent).

Almost half of those surveyed emphasized that vacationing without an animal was unimaginable. The animal is a family member who also belongs on vacation. “To experience shared experiences and the joy of the animal, to explore a new area, is simply beautiful,” one participant left in the comments.

When choosing a holiday destination in 2021, almost half of travellers are drawn to German holiday destinations. The other top destinations are Italy, France, the Netherlands and Austria. Long distances to the destination are therefore more likely to be avoided by pet owners, which could also be due to the pandemic. With a few exceptions, the participants refrain from long-distance travel when planning – especially with animals. This is also reflected in the choice of means of transport: 84 percent of people travelling with pets use the car. In second place is traveling by motorhome or camper van (7 percent), again an individual means of travel. Trains (4 percent) and airplanes (3 percent) apparently play only a minor role in traveling with animals this year.

The survey also shows that a third of pet owners have already had difficulties or problems in the past when traveling with animals. By far the most frequently mentioned problem was finding pet-friendly accommodation. Also widespread were problems when traveling by public transport and the prohibition of having dogs with you during activities on vacation (e.g. on the beach or in shops).

But with good planning and travel preparation, unpleasant surprises can usually be avoided.

Common difficulties in choosing animal-friendly accommodation can be prevented from the outset. For example, it is important to ask whether pets are allowed. For the travel budget, it must also be taken into account that daily flat rates for animals are charged and that an adapted final cleaning must be paid in holiday homes or apartments. “It is important that the animal feels as comfortable as possible in the holiday accommodation and can be undisturbed. Therefore, third parties should not have access to the accommodation, especially if the animal is alone,” says WTG Managing Director Katharina Kohn.

“A trip with an animal should definitely be a positive experience for all travelers – including the four-legged friends,” explains Katharina Kohn, Managing Director of WTG. “Sufficient lead time in travel planning is one of the most important factors for this to succeed.” Travel preparations should include having the animal checked by a veterinarian in advance and researching the contact details of a veterinary practice at the destination. It is also important to deal with the destination country or place with regard to the local rules for animals. A bag with the most important emergency utensils, e.g. wound spray and bandages, should also always be kept ready.

Pet owners should also take a close look at their way to their destination in advance and, for example, look for suitable resting places for dogs off the motorway.

Ultimately, it is crucial that the needs of the animal are sufficiently taken into account when travelling. “Then the chances are good that the holiday will bring many positive shared experiences for both humans and animals and at the same time strengthen the bond between animal and owner,” says Katharina Kohn.

Even if traveling without an animal is unimaginable for most people, the following should still apply: If it is already clear in advance that the well-being of the animal cannot be sufficiently taken into account on vacation or that the journey would be associated with a lot of stress for the animal, care by a third party should be considered: “An animal whose needs cannot be satisfied on vacation, better stay in good hands at home, in a guesthouse, with friends, family or neighbors,” says Katharina Kohn.

Interested parties can find a lot of other advice on travelling with animals at:
https://welttierschutz.org/reisen-mit-tieren/

These five traditional casinos and casinos are worth a trip

All about travel

PatrickJullien

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28. June 2021

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These five traditional casinos and casinos are worth a trip

Gambling was and still is one of the most popular pastimes in the world. For this reason, there are many different casinos all over the world that continue to do well even after the advent of online gambling.

Casinos have become great and diverse entertainment hubs that offer much more than just gambling. For those who don’t feel like going to a conventional casino, the Internet offers many opportunities to play comfortably in one of the popular online casinos.

On the Internet, you can find just the right casino for every taste, such as
on http://www.neueonline-casinos.com/pay-n-play
. But if you prefer to go to a real casino and take a look at one of the most traditional casinos in the world, you will find them in this article.

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Bellagio, Las Vegas, USA

When it comes to the most famous and traditional casinos in the world, the Bellagio in Las Vegas simply cannot be missed. The Bellagio is both a casino and a luxury hotel and was first opened in 1998. Shortly after, the Bellagio became a Las Vegas landmark. With a total area of over 100,000 square meters, the Bellagio is one of the largest real-world casinos in the world.

The adjoining hotel has about 4,000 rooms. Among them are a few luxury suites where a single night can cost tens of thousands of dollars. The casino also boasts one of the most popular poker tables around the world. Large poker tournaments with professional players are regularly held there.

The interior of the Bellagio is already very impressive, but the big and well-known feature of this casino is the oversized fountain in front of the hotel and casino. It attracts a lot of tourists due to its choreographed performances, which are accompanied by music and lights and are a real spectacle.

If travel is possible again in the near future, then the Bellagio and Vegas in general are always worth a trip. The Bellagio also plays an important role in many films, which is why it should not be missing from the list of the most traditional casinos in the world.

Taj Mahal Casino Resort, Atlantic City, United States

The official name of this casino is now Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, but despite this, it is still called by the old name Taj Mahal by many visitors. The name Taj Mahal was only active from 1990 to 2016 and was replaced by the name Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, but this was met with disappointment by visitors.

The casino was opened by the last president of the United States in the person of Donald Trump and gained its fame due to huge investments that were necessary to build the huge building. There are even some estimates that the cost of building the casino has reached almost a billion dollars.

The Taj Mahal didn’t really start at the beginning and it took a few years for the casino to have the reputation it has today. But its fame earned the Taj Mahal the reputation of Atlantic City’s landmark. In 2016, the casino was closed for a short time in 2016 and reopened after a complete renovation.

In the course of this, the name was also changed, but this did not detract from the fame. The casino has an area of approximately 167,000 square meters and offers its visitors thousands of slot machines and gaming tables, as well as luxury restaurants, theaters, and hotel rooms.

Casino Baden-Baden, Baden-Baden, Germany

Baden-Baden is a German spa town in Baden-Württemberg and a very popular tourist spot for well-to-do, elderly people. The Casino Baden-Baden is housed in the old Kurhaus Baden-Baden and convinces the players not only with its beautiful building.

The building was built in 1824, making it one of the oldest casino buildings in the world. Baden-Baden is very popular with tourists and is now opening its doors again. When gambling was banned in France in the 1830s, many rich people from France decided to open the casino in Baden-Baden. The reason for this is Baden-Baden’s immediate proximity to the French border.

The casino and the old Kurhaus are also known for having hosted many important events such as chess tournaments, various congresses and, above all, a NATO summit. Another notable fact about the casino is that the Russian writer Dostoyevsky was supposedly inspired to write his famous novel “The Gambler” when he visited the casino in Baden-Baden.

Casino Baden-Baden trumps all other casinos in that it is not just a casino, but a true luxury temple for the rich upper class and not really a place for the simple gambler. Guests must also strictly adhere to the dress code in Baden-Baden and also pay expensive entrance fees.

Venetian Casino, Macau, China

Casinos in Macau — View of Macau, Image: trabantos / shutterstock

If you’ve ever looked at Macau from a distance, you’d immediately wonder where the many unmissable lights come from and what they illuminate. The reason for the light is the gambling city of Macau in China. Macau is one of the largest gambling cities in the world after Las Vegas in the USA.

Macau is home to some of the largest casinos in the world, including the famous Venetian Casino. The casino is located in the middle of a beautiful cascade in a graceful and modern design. In addition, the casino shines many bright colors into the sky and offers its guests everything that makes the player’s heart beat faster on over 10,000 square meters.

The Venetian Casino in Macau is also modeled after its sister casino in the USA in Las Vegas and offers its guests a luxurious hotel with over 30,000 beds. As in Baden-Baden, the guests in Macau are mainly rich players with a lot of money and rather less normal players who like to gamble for low amounts.

MGM Grand, Las Vegas, USA

The MGM Grand in Las Vegas, Nevada is one of the most famous and best casinos in the world. In terms of revenue and profit, the MGM Grand also beats all other casinos on the Strip in Las Vegas. The traditional casino was opened in 1993 and is now the third largest casino ever. The MGM Grand has also become known worldwide through many films and series.

The MGM Grand covers more than 150,000 square meters and also has more than 3,000 slots and slot machines and also has over 130 poker and gaming tables. In addition to the casino, the MGM Grand also has many good restaurants, which are always well attended. The MGM Grand is therefore not only interesting for gamers, but also for strolling and eating out.

Holidays on the Island of Flowers: the most beautiful places in Madeira

Portugal

PatrickJullien

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26. June 2021

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Holidays on the Island of Flowers: the most beautiful places in Madeira

Madeira is a true pearl that captivates with a mild climate and plenty of sunshine all year round. The island in the Atlantic Ocean belongs to Portugal, and thus to the EU. However, geographically speaking, the island is closer to Morocco. 737 kilometres separate the European island from the African mainland. In addition to a varied and exciting flora and fauna, Madeira can also boast historic towns and villages with original charm that invite you to visit and relax.

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The island’s capital, Funchal

Funchal Botanical Garden, Madeira — The botanical garden of Funchal, Image: Cristian Mircea Balate / shutterstock

If you come to the island of Madeira , you usually end up in Funchal – whether by plane or cruise ship. With around 115,000 inhabitants, Funchal to the south is by far the largest city on the island, and the tourist magnet par excellence. Funchal’s old town is picturesquely located directly on the coast. In the narrow streets of the old town, it is wonderful to walk past small traditional shops and quaint restaurants and bars. If you want to experience the real life of the islanders, you should definitely visit the Mercado dos Lavradores. Here, locals and tourists alike stock up on fresh fruits, such as passion fruit, mangoes, guavas and bananas grown in Madeira, which are very popular here. Flower bulbs can also be purchased here.

Madeira is considered the flower island of Europe par excellence – anyone who has ever visited the Botanical Garden of Funchal will know why. The best way to get there from the city centre is by cable car. Already on the way, a breathtaking view stretches over the city. In addition, there are a whole series of churches worth seeing, such as the Sé Cathedral. Palaces that were built in colonial style often contain museums and can be visited inside and outside. For example, you can see everyday objects, antique furniture, paintings and azulejo, the typical Portuguese tiles. Football fans head for the Cristiano Ronaldo Museum, where there are numerous memorabilia of the footballer such as trophies, jerseys and fan letters to see. The ball artist is the most famous son of the island.

The Piscina Naturais of Porto Moniz

Porto Moniz, Piscinas Naturais Velhas, Madeira — Piscina Naturais of Porto Moniz, Image: Sina Ettmer Photography / shutterstock

Much smaller than Funchal is the coastal town of Porto Moniz. In the somewhat sleepy small town, at the very northwestern tip of the island, only about 1,700 inhabitants live. Nevertheless, the place, which was home to whalers in earlier times, is absolutely worth seeing. Directly in front of the waterfront promenade are several Piscina Naturais, natural swimming pools that have formed from volcanic rock. Here you can relax in the warmed Atlantic water and listen to the sound of the sea. In addition to tourism, fishing is now the main occupation of the inhabitants of Porto Moniz. Therefore, you should definitely try freshly caught swordfish with Madeira bananas and passion fruit sauce in one of the fish restaurants located directly on the harbour. Afterwards, you can track down the sea creatures in the Centro Ciência Viva, a show aquarium.

The thatched farmhouses of Santana

Santana is located on the north coast of Madeira and is widely known for its small thatched houses, which from the outside look like brick, brightly painted Indian teepees. Their peculiar architectural form made the houses one of the landmarks of the island. The thatched roofs have to be renewed about every four to five years: if you are lucky, you will come at the right time to witness this ancient task. In the past, the farmers of the village lived in the traditional houses, but today many of them are no longer inhabited, but can be visited. The houses are part of the Madeira Theme Park, which provides information about the history and culture of the entire island. Santana is also surrounded by a densely wooded mountain landscape, which has held the title of UNESCO Biosphere Reserve since 2011. If you are already here, you should take a hike into the enchanting surroundings.

The romantic fishing village of Camara de Lobos

Camara de Lobos, Madeira — Camara de Lobos, Image: Cristian Mircea Balate / shutterstock

Just a few kilometres from Funchal is Camara de Lobos. The place is considered one of the most original in all of Madeira. If you are good on foot, Camara de Lobos can be approached from Funchal via a coastal hiking trail that offers magnificent views of the Atlantic Ocean. Even from afar you can see a whole row of wooden fishing boats, which are still in service here. The place itself was built on stone cliffs. So on a walk through the small town, it goes up and down a lot. Above the fishing village lies the most important growing area of Madeira wine. In the small bars of the old town, you can enjoy a glass of it in a romantic setting.

Machico: a visit to the oldest city in Madeira

Bay of Machico, one of the famous beaches of Madeira Island, Image: Cristian Mircea Balate / shutterstock

In July 1419, Portuguese explorers landed on the island of Madeira for the first time, and started the settlement of the island from here. This was the beginning of the history of the island as part of Portugal. Machico quickly developed into the center of sugar cane cultivation. The Capela dos Milagres church, built in the 15th century, is not only worth a visit, but also the oldest church on the island. Just like in the chapel of São Roque, the famous Portuguese tile paintings can be admired there. The Solar do Ribeirinho, a former mansion built in colonial style, houses a museum on local history. Near the quay of Machico, the Fort São João Baptista, built in the 18th century, rises above the city. Tourists are also attracted by a Caribbean-looking sandy beach, which was artificially created in the middle of the city center. This sandy beach is an absolute speciality in Madeira, where there are otherwise only stone beaches.

Three strong company outings in 2021 – finally getting out together again

Germany

PatrickJullien

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24. June 2021

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Three strong company outings in 2021 – finally getting out together again

We have been living in a very unusual situation for more than a year – one lockdown followed the next and personal contact with our fellow human beings, work colleagues and friends has been neglected. Reason enough, then, to be able to take a deep breath again. Summer is here and with it we are all happy to be able to get out again: whether in nature, in the city or at the lake it doesn’t matter for the time being – the main thing is that we are together again.

What is important for each and every one of us privately is all the more important for the job. We have now seen enough of our colleagues in front of the camera in the home office. Now it’s time to get out again and enjoy the summer together – for example, at exciting

company outing ideas

that will become a real hit, especially in summer 2021. We take a look at three of the best company outings and tell you about our experience:

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1. Off-road through the terrain of the Eifel

The Eifel is embedded in western Germany and is divided into the North Eifel and Volcanic Eifel and stretches from north to south on a line from Euskirchen in North Rhine-Westphalia almost to Trier. Many also speak of the South Eifel when it comes to the geographical area in Bitburg in Rhineland-Palatinate. We dared to take part in an off-road challenge on Polaris vehicles and raced cross-country through nature. The team event provides adrenaline and a lot of fun, although you don’t necessarily have to be very sporty to participate.

We steered the vehicles ourselves and thus made our way through rough terrain deep in the Eifel. In between, we stopped and were able to enjoy bread on a stick at the campfire at the edge of a cave. If you want, you can abseil down a cliff that goes down about 20 meters – it’s a real adrenaline rush. Finally, we enjoyed a picnic at a lake and learned how to build a raft. In the best weather, we then ventured out onto the lake with our watercraft, which meant a wet adventure for some of us. Due to the perfect weather we were able to dry quickly and the barbecue in the evening inspired everyone once again.

Learn more about

the off-road rally through the Eifel

2. Scavenger hunt with app through the city

First of all: if someone thinks that a scavenger hunt is only for children, you are far from it. We are absolutely thrilled with this company outing, which, by the way, can take place almost anywhere. We booked the scavenger hunt in Cologne and were able to see various hot spots up close. We started at the cathedral in Cologne – during the first tasks we already noticed that real Cologne knowledge is not really available – but we still did well. The scavenger hunt is carried out with an innovative app and includes quiz questions, some of which are very funny, music rate games, video challenges and portrait shots. We played in two teams to strengthen the challenge character.

The scavenger hunt led us along the Rhine towards Cologne’s old town. Fortunately, the local restaurateurs were allowed to reopen, at least in the outdoor area, which is why we were able to enjoy a few “snacks”. Exciting tasks were also partly physical puzzles, in which we had to draw certain caricatures and thus create connections.

The app is very easy to understand and we were thrilled. You can use the app for private events. Best of all, it is free of charge for private users, so you can also spontaneously design the children’s birthday party innovatively at any time.

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the scavenger hunt with app

Beach party or farm event as a company outing

The combination sounds a bit crazy, but both topics for company outings have so much in common. Because both team events are about winning. At the Beach Olympics and Farm Olympics, we showed who is physically and mentally ahead of the others. At the Farmers’ Olympics, wheelbarrow races, rubber boot throwing and, as the supreme discipline, cow milking competitions on a noble wooden cow called “b-etty” are not neglected. On the other hand, it is different at the Beach Olympics, where the aim is to knock over the opposing team in the sand in a tug-of-war or to compete together and against each other in beach volleyball games.

Both company outings also have it in terms of culinary delights: a barbecue awaits all guests at the end, cool drinks throughout the day and music ensures the best atmosphere. For us, this is a reason to plan both events again, as they – like the other tips – last a whole day and really provide distraction.

Find out more about the beach Olympics, a company outing or a team event on the farm

Result:

It felt like we had survived the pandemic, at least for a few hours. Despite the distance, these company outings not only offer fun and entertainment, but also provide more motivation in the team. Everyone is carried away by the group idea – this has flipped the switch for us and shown us that it is best to be outdoors together.

Pollença, the pearl of the north of Mallorca

PatrickJullien

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22. June 2021

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Pollença, the pearl of the north of Mallorca

Mallorca’s northeast is not free of surprises… Located in the northernmost part of the Serra de Tramuntana, the town of Pollenca is one of the most atmospheric on the island.
Where the mountain range and the sea meet, on a wide curving Mediterranean bay, the town invites you to stroll with its winding streets, picturesque natural stone houses and important art treasures.

And yet the country town is quite idiosyncratic. With a dozen art galleries and the annual international music festival, Pollenca stands out from the rest of the provincial towns. In addition, the mostly wealthy Pollencin residents cultivate their own dialect and traditional crafts.

You can tell that the town with its port offshoot Port de Pollenca is a special place. A place for lovers of beauty, a place for Mallorca connoisseurs.

A look at the history book reveals: Several megalithic buildings prove that people settled in the area as early as the Bronze Age. It dates back to Roman times, which is still well
bridge over the Torrent de Sant Jordi on the northern edge of Pollenca. The proximity of the Roman city of Pollentia (near today’s Alcudia) brought prosperity, but this soon dried up due to the vandal storms of the 5th century. The really big time dawned with the Moors, who transformed the valley into a lush garden with their water pumping technology. After the Christian reconquest, churches and monasteries were built.

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Arrive & look around

Here, where the cliffs fall 200 metres deep into the Mediterranean Sea and a road boldly carved into the rock winds over 18 kilometres from Port de Pollenca to the lighthouse of Mallorca’s northeastern tip, built in 1892, the town of Pollenca spreads its very own flair: its location and atmosphere make it something special – Pollenca is a Mallorcan work of art.

Between heavenly realms and earthly pleasures

Two hundred and sixty-five steps lead to the Calvary in the shade of dark cypresses. The road struggles upwards in narrow serpentines – twelve large stone crosses testify to the importance of this hill. Via the Stations of the Cross you finally reach the small pilgrimage church with the large view. This view of the town, the Puig de Maria opposite, up to the two bays of Pollenca and Alcudia is just as stunning as the one on the stairway mountain of the “calvari” – as ochre-coloured and cypress-lined as the houses of the town.

Must see! Active and creative in the pretty artists’ town of Pollenca….

A visit to the Casa Museum Dionis Bennassár on Roca 14 is worthwhile. In the house of the artist Dionis Bennássar (1904-1967), 240 of his works are exhibited. The artist belonged to the group around the Art Nouveau painter Hermenegildo Anglada Camaraca.

Others end up in Puig de Maria, the city’s local mountain, crowned by the former nunnery Mare de Déu del Puig. Just behind the last houses of the monastery complex, the path leads to an old pilgrimage path. From there, there is a stunning view.

Tip: a stop at the Klosterstübchen compensates for a rather arduous ascent.

Attention festival fans! The popular international music festival takes place every year in August in the courtyard of the Dominican monastery, framed by the cloister. In winter, Mallorcan folklore is offered here on Sundays. In addition, the monastery houses an old people’s home as well as the local history museum.

Water rats, sun worshippers and water sports enthusiasts also get their money’s worth: They all cavort at Cala de Sant Vicenc, located northeast of Pollenca. The beach area is framed by a 300-metre-high rock face in the east.

Bay of Port de Pollenca, Image: vulcano / shutterstock

And finally you reach Port de Pollenca, a “fishing village where you live as life should be, simple and content” …., according to the journalist Gordon West in 1929 on his trip to Mallorca!

Here you walk under ancient pine trees, past beautiful villas and hotels from the Wilhelminian period. Three local areas invite you to linger:

A wide sandy beach that stretches several hundred meters from the southern entrance to the village to the extensive facilities of the marina and fishing port.
Followed by the old town centre with the tree-lined Plaza Miguel Capllonch,
And last but not least, the highlight…., the Passeig Vora Mar with the extension Carrer Colon. This magnificent footpath and cycle path runs for almost 2 kilometres along small shady stretches of beach, past old villas. Almost at the end is the Illa d’Or, the beautifully located (and most expensive) hotel in the town with one of the best restaurant terraces in Mallorca.

But that’s not all! The old fishing village is the hotspot for water sports enthusiasts: For surfers, sailors, kayakers and yacht owners, a paradise is revealed. On the beach by the harbour there is white sand, plenty of space and extensive service.

Pollenca is a lively tourist resort with a rich offer of sports and entertainment. The charming town at the foot of high mountains is undoubtedly one of the most interesting cities on the whole island. The white bay is ideal for windsurfing. In the alleys of the former fishing village, you can still feel the atmosphere that attracted wealthy Britons as early as the 1930s. The fine sandy beaches around the village and the beautiful promenade still inspire.

Don’t miss it! Enjoyment in the most beautiful places – tips for a cosy stop

There are a number of good restaurants near the harbour and on the quay of Port de Pollenca. The typical Mallorcan restaurant Bona Cepa near the harbour and a visit to the bar “Sail & Surf” for a cold beer can be particularly recommended.

No less inspiring is the “Argos”, conspicuous by its simple decoration. There’s nothing to distract from the creative Mediterranean cuisine here – except perhaps the sea view.

It doesn’t get any greener than this: The restaurant of the Pension Bellavista offers the perfect setting for the creative vegetarian recipes – heavenly delights in a magical ambience.