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Saxon Switzerland: Natural beauties invite you to climb and marvel

Dr. Daniela Egert
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Saxon Switzerland: Natural beauties invite you to climb and marvel

Saxon Switzerland in the German state of Saxony has always captivated fine minds and nature lovers alike. In 1819, August von Goethe, the son of the poetic genius, expressed his enthusiasm about the rock cave called “Kuhstall” in the Elbe Sandstone Mountains. Even today, the idiosyncratic rock opening on the “Neuer Wildenstein” attracts thousands of tourists here every year. Anyone who has walked up to the second largest rock gate in the low mountain range – at an altitude of just over 300 metres – will be surprised with a fabulous panoramic view of the surrounding area. But that’s not all: a few steps away, the so-called iron “ladder to heaven” leads through a narrow crevice in the rock up to a Platteau: From which another impressive view opens up over the stony beauties of this region.

Kuhstall, Saxon Switzerland
The “Kuhstall” – a rock formation/ famous rock hole – in Saxon Switzerland, Image: German Egert

The way back is on a path through the forest that is particularly suitable for families. This hike is undemanding, but especially beautiful. Once back down, the corridor leads back to your own car, which can be parked up here in a parking lot. If you want to put the icing on the cake of the day trip, you can instead make the short journey back to Bad Schandau on the “Kirnitzsch Valley Railway”, which has been in service since 1898.

The Kirnitzsch Valley Railway
The Kirnitzsch Valley Railway, Image: German Egert

This historic, bright yellow overland railway connects the spa gardens of Bad Schandau with the Lichtenhain waterfall, which is also always worth a photo. After the train driver has briefly waited the “old lady” with her three wagons, the train with the Friends of Nature on board reliably starts moving. The path seems to be the goal, because things don’t move too fast here. Bad Schandau is extremely proud of the stylish attraction on rails, with the small town shining with a whole range of other tourist pluses. For example, the recognized Kneipp health resort, which was simply called “Schandau” until 1920, also offers the “Historic Passenger Elevator”. The Art Nouveau building takes visitors to a platform at a height of a good 50 metres, from which they can enjoy a picturesque view of the “Lilienstein”, the symbol of the “Saxon Switzerland National Park”. Young people and children in particular are happy about another animal attraction up here on the “Ostrava Disc”: a lynx enclosure with elegant inhabitants. Wild lynxes would be more than welcome in the Elbe region, so far the shy wildcat has already left one or two tracks in the forest.

View of Königstein in Saxon Switzerland, Image: German Egert

If you still have some time for a tour on the next day of your holiday, you can, for example, go on a hike to the Papststein, Gohrisch and Kleinhennersdorfer Stein. The way up can also be followed quite effortlessly here, and younger elementary school kids should also enjoy the adventurously winding paths. Occasional fireplaces and highly rugged, wildly romantic boulders and formations offer an unforgettable experience for the whole family! Even sprightly pensioners are by no means overwhelmed here, as long as they are generally good on their feet. The three friendly table mountains mentioned can be walked in loose succession, and there may be a little chat with other excursionists along the way. Fortunately, you don’t have to hurry here – even in the sunset, the peaks always provide new and magical impressions. Alternatively, the hike from Cunnersdorf to the Katzstein, Rotstein and Spitzer Stein could be mentioned. Or a trip to the rock labyrinth Langenhennersdorf, a popular classic for all those who are traveling with children.

If you still can’t get enough of the attractions of Saxon Switzerland, you may want to venture deep into the bowels of the earth in Berggießhübel. In front of the entrance gate of the Marie Louise Stollen, mine guide Norbert is already waiting for the guests in full gear. After a hearty “Good luck!”, the nice Saxon hands out a work helmet or a safety helmet to the waiting people. Then we bravely enter the narrow maw behind the entrance grille. For centuries, miners carved the rock here under adventurous conditions in order to finally wrest the coveted iron and copper from it. An underground lake, mysteriously illuminated from below, awaits visitors in the tunnel.

“Watch out, it’s over a small bridge!” shouts Norbert, who is particularly concerned about the well-being of everyone. Sturdy shoes are essential here, occasionally a trickle crosses the path. And then a real surprise: Norbert sings the famous Steigerlied to the tourists in the middle of the rock, whose roots go back to the 16th century. He performs the melody simply and modestly, with a full, pleasant voice. A reverent moment, then the local expert finally leads the participants back into the daylight – which is now perceived all the more gratefully. From Gottleuba, it takes about 20 minutes from the region’s only visitor mine back to Königstein. Where the Elbe ferry will once again cause joyful excitement among young and old. The navigable vessel calmly starts moving; without haste it goes dignified across the Elbe.

Saxon Switzerland is guaranteed to be remembered for a long time with its natural beauty. And it also offers a wide range of other exciting highlights that make a stay here simply unforgettable. For us it is clear that we will soon make a detour to this part of Saxony and Germany again. To an area that was still mainly shaped by Mother Nature: picturesque, varied and simply beautiful.

 

 

 

Bosnia and Herzegovina: the vastly underestimated pearl of the Balkans

PatrickJullien
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Bosnia and Herzegovina: the vastly underestimated pearl of the Balkans

Bosnia and Herzegovina is greatly underestimated as an attractive holiday destination. When people hear Bosnia and Herzegovina, many still think of the Balkan War, which brought a lot of destruction, and also a lot of suffering, especially in the picturesque city of Mostar, and in the capital Sarajevo. But more than 20 years after the end of the war, much damage was repaired. In the meantime, Bosnia-Herzegovina attracts visitors with a breathtakingly beautiful landscape, warm people and delicious Balkan cuisine. Which cities and sights you should not miss in Bosnia-Herzegovina can be found here.

The historic capital Sarajevo

Trebević Cable Car Sarajevo
Trebević cable car in Sarajevo, Image: Babok Natallia / shutterstock

With just under 300,000 inhabitants, Sarajevo is manageable and easy to manage on foot. Travelers no longer have to worry about safety here: since the end of the Balkan war in 1995, the city has been no more dangerous than other European capitals. Walking through the historic city center, you quickly feel like you’re in a fairy tale from 1001 nights. The Baščaršija, the historic bazaar whose entrance is the Sebilj Fountain – the city’s landmark – could also be located in Turkey .

The Ottoman heritage can still be felt so strongly here today. The bazaar is lined with cafés where traditionally strong Turkish coffee with lokum can be enjoyed. In addition, hand-cut copper souvenirs can be purchased. The Gazi Husrev Beg Mosque, built in 1530, is one of the oldest of the city’s 200 mosques, and definitely worth a visit. We continue to the nearby Lateinerbrücke. In 1914, the assassination attempt on the Austrian Archduke Franz Ferdinand, which triggered the First World War, was carried out here. A museum at this point provides information about the details of the attack. You should also plan enough time to enjoy the beautiful nature outside the city center.

Sarajevo is located in a depression. The surrounding mountains are not only scenic: from there you also have a wonderful view down to the city center. The Trebević cable car leads up to the local mountain Trebević. Lost Places fans hike from here on signposted paths to the 1984 Olympic bobsleigh run, which is now sprayed over with graffiti and connects more and more with the surrounding nature.

Mostar: the divided city

The landmark of the city of Mostar is without question the Stari Most, i.e. the Old Bridge. Built in 1566, it is a true masterpiece of the architecture of the time, spanning the two districts divided by the Neretva River. Already during the construction period, this bridge was called a symbolic connecting element between the eastern and western hemispheres. It still connects the Christian with the Muslim world, the Croatian-influenced western part with the Bosniak-influenced eastern part of the city. During the Balkan crisis, the historic building was destroyed, then rebuilt according to the original model and reopened in 2004. Since 2005, the bridge has been part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site. The stone bridge is home to small shops, cafes and Ćevapčići roasters. Connoisseurs say that you can eat the best ćevapčići in the country here. Those who come in the summer months can also work as bridge jumpers together with the local youth. Only those who dare to jump from Stari Most into the Neretva are considered a real guy here: the male youth prefers to jump in front of an audience of local girls and amazed tourists.

The Buna spring in Blagaj

Blagaj, Bosnia and Herzegovina
Blagaj, source of the Buna, Image: Vadym Lavra / shutterstock

Only ten kilometers from Mostar is the village of Blagaj. Here, the Buna River rises from a karst spring. This natural spectacle alone is very impressive. A Turkish sultan was also very enthusiastic about this spot: so much so that he had the dervish monastery Tekija built here in the 17th century. It is located directly on the shore of the spring lake. Behind it is a cave that can be explored with a rented boat. Afterwards, it is worth climbing to the medieval fortress of Stjepan grad. Since an earthquake in 1835, there are only ruins to see here, but the view down to the spring is very beautiful. About a kilometer away is the center of Blagaj with a bazaar and a mosque complex, which used to house a harem. Many of the stone houses in the village were built between 1500 and 1760, which is why a walk through the village is quite impressive.

The dramatic waterfalls of Kravica

Kravica Waterfalls
Kravica Waterfalls, Image: Leonid Andronov / shutterstock

Very close to the village of Studenci, the Kravica waterfalls, which are under nature conservation, plunge no less than 28 meters into the depths. Swimming is allowed in the wide outlet pool. However, the water there is very cool: it hardly reaches more than 15 degrees. This is because the water cannot heat up any further due to the constant falling movement. If you don’t want to swim, you can rent a kayak. The waterfalls extend over an area of 120 meters wide, which looks quite dramatic. Around the waterfalls, the vegetation is very rich.

Pearl on the Adriatic: Neum

In the very south of the country lies the small town of Neum, Bosnia-Herzegovina’s only access to the sea. The so-called Neum Corridor leads to the Adriatic Sea. To the left and right you are surrounded by Croatian territory. On the gently sloping 20-kilometre-long coastline, there are breathtaking pebble beaches in front of crystal clear water. There are a lot of restaurants in the city that offer a view out to the sea. Here you can enjoy fish and Balkan specialties such as burek, a dough roll filled with meat, cheese or spinach, and sarma, vine leaves stuffed with minced meat, rice or fish.

Recommendations

  • Discover Sarajevo’s best cafes, artisan workshops, and quaint streets on a walking tour of the capital.
  • Visit the Unesco heritage and bird sanctuary of Hutovo Blato – the largest of its kind in southeastern Europe and a permanent home for owls, Greek partridges and herons.
  • Hike along the Rakitnica Gorge, south of Sarejevo, and enjoy spectacular views of mountain streams, waterfalls, and the Dinaric Alps.
  • Be enchanted by the turquoise river that flows under the elegant Stari Most (Old Bridge) of the Mostra.
  • Take a dip and have a picnic lunch at the stunning Kravica waterfall.

Tips

Bosnians tend to be very friendly, but if you’re having a conversation about politics or history, be aware of who you’re talking to – tensions can always be present. In Herzegovina, you shouldn’t just refer to Bosnia and Herzegovina as Bosnia. When you enter a church or mosque, make sure that you are dressed respectfully. Women should cover their heads with scarves when visiting mosques, and both men and women must take off their shoes.

The most important facts about Bosnia and Herzegovina in brief

Population: 4.6 million
Languages: Bosnia & Herzegovina, Serbian, Croatian
Time: GMT +1 (GMT +2 in summer)
Visas: Visa for Bosnia and Herzegovina
International airports: Sarajevo (SIJ), Banja Luka (BNX) and Mostar (OMO).
Money: Bosnia & Herzegovina Convertible Mark (KM/ BAM)
In Bosnia and Herzegovina, you usually pay in cash. There are plenty of ATMs in the big cities where you can withdraw cash if you need to, but don’t expect restaurants and shops to accept credit cards, and in small towns, you’ll struggle to find ATMs on your own. Euros and US dollars are useful. Waiters are paid very low salaries, so a tip of 10% or more is highly appreciated. The same applies to taxi drivers.

Best time to travel and means of travel

The climate in Bosnia and Herzegovina varies dramatically depending on where you are in the country. Herzegovina – the area in the south near the Adriatic Sea enjoys a Mediterranean climate with warm, sunny, dry weather and mild winters. Bosnia in the north has more continental conditions – warm summers and very cold, snowy winters. However, individual mountains are surrounded by microclimates. Unless you’re planning on skiing, summer is generally the best time to visit Bosnia and Herzegovina, and unlike other more established destinations, you don’t have to deal with expensive prices and crowds in the “high season”.

By train: Since the railways have been hit hard by the war and repairs are still pending on many lines, train traffic in Bosnia and Herzegovina is restricted. The existing routes are reliable and cheap, albeit very slow. The train journey between Sarejevo and Mostra is particularly scenic. Sarajevo is well served by a tram network.

By road: Every town and village in Bosnia and Herzegovina is served by a private or public bus system. The buses run more frequently than trains, but are less comfortable and about the same price for comparable trips. In the larger cities, a car can be rented. The roads are generally well maintained, but don’t expect fast driving times as there are no highways.

Accommodation in Bosnia and Herzegovina

Hotels can be found in all major cities. Many of the large hotels built during the socialist era are not very comfortable, so it is worth looking for private rooms and family-owned apartments. Feel free to knock on the door if you see a sign that says sobe/ zimmer/ rooms/ camere. There is a huge potential for ecotourism in Bosnia, but unfortunately only a few campsites. However, there are numerous mountain huts that are good starting points for hikers.

Food and Drink

Meat lovers are in good hands in Bosnia and Herzegovina and can enjoy specialties such as cevapi (a lamb and beef mixture somewhere between kebab and sausage), jagnjetina (lamb roasted on a skewer) and begova corba (veal and vegetable soup). Vegetarians will have a hard time, as even so-called vegetable dishes are often prepared with pieces of bacon or smoked meat. Local wines and beers are very cheap in Bosnia and Herzegovina, Turkish coffee is very popular.

Vaccinations

There are no legal requirements for vaccinations in Bosnia and Herzegovina, but it makes sense to be up to date with hepatitis A, tetanus, and diphtheria vaccinations.

Flying through Switzerland

PatrickJullien
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Flying through Switzerland

Switzerland is located in Central Europe, surrounded by Germany, France, Italy, Liechtenstein and Austria. Switzerland has cantons and the capital is Bern. It is said that Switzerland is neutral and independent. Switzerland is one of the most popular holiday destinations and is a wealthy country. There are not only spectacular mountains such as the Matterhorn, the highest mountain in the Alps, to marvel at, but also many other natural sites. In winter, there is a lot of winter sports in the mountains and hiking in summer. Switzerland is also known for excellent chocolate and cheese. But not only holidaymakers, but also business people travel a lot to Switzerland, as many international shops take place here.

It is a good idea to take advantage of https://www.jetapp.at/schweiz’s offer to travel through Switzerland by private jet. You remain flexible and can travel quickly and comfortably. In addition to destinations in Switzerland, Jetapp also flies to other European cities such as Paris or London . The departure point is, for example, the Swiss Genéve Airport, from where you can cross Switzerland in 40 minutes on a charter flight. In addition to the airports in Zurich and Geneva, there are flights to Basel-Mühlhausen and 11 regional airports. In addition, there are 44 airfields and 5 civilian military airfields from where you can take off. The airports most frequently used are Geneva, Zurich, Basel-Mühlhausen, Bern-Belp, St. Gallen-Altenrhein, Sion, Lugano and Engadin the highest airport in Europe.

If you are interested in this offer and would like to book a private jet, you must select the desired aircraft and departure airport online. You then receive offers by e-mail and choose the offer that suits you and complete the booking. At the airport, a quick check-in follows before boarding. Long security and baggage checks are no longer necessary.

Zurich
View of the historic center of Zurich, Image: canadastock / shutterstock

The greatest advantages arise in the flexibility in terms of time and place and the privacy offered. You are free to determine the departure times and there are no waiting times due to check-in, security and baggage checks as well as boarding and baggage claim. You can freely decide at which airport you want to land. In addition, you can relax in the private atmosphere or prepare for upcoming appointments. In addition, there is first-class catering and on-board service. JetApp offers high security standards and is available around the clock. It is also promised that there are no hidden fees and favorable conditions are offered. The private jet types range from piston, turboprop, light, midsize and heavy jets to ultra long range and VIP airliners.

If you want to change or cancel a booking that has already been confirmed, you can call the 24-hour hotline or contact us by e-mail. In principle, the destination airport can also be changed during the flight, but is weighed up individually. The same applies if you want to add another flight or change the number of passengers. You can pay for the booked flight conveniently by bank transfer and then receive a booking confirmation.

With the kind support of JetApp

Holidays in the Pyrenees

PatrickJullien
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Holidays in the Pyrenees

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

Peculiarities of the Pyrenees

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

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

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

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

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

Holiday opportunities

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

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

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

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

Tourist attractions

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Sonnenwald ski area in the Bavarian Forest

PatrickJullien
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Sonnenwald ski area in the Bavarian Forest

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

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

The Brotjackl and its history

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

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

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

Up and down again

Brotjacklriegel
The bread jack bar, Image: lantapix / shutterstock

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

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

Fun off the slopes

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

An exploration tour in the Bavarian Forest

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

Havana – Cuba’s capital

PatrickJullien
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Havana – Cuba’s capital

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Cuba Trinidad
Colorful Havana, Image: Delpixel / shutterstock

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

Where to stay in Havana

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

The best time to visit Havana

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

Compensation claim for flight delays

PatrickJullien
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Compensation claim for flight delays

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

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

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

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

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

A small checklist

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

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

Who is entitled to compensation?

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

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

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

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

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

These are staggered as follows:

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

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

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

The most popular destinations in Turkey

PatrickJullien
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The most popular destinations in Turkey

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

1. The Turkish Riviera

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

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

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

2. Turkey’s Aegean Coast

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

3. Cappadocia

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

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

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

4. Istanbul

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

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

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

5. Turkey’s Black Sea Region

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Rovinj: Croatian port city with Mediterranean flair

PatrickJullien
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Rovinj: Croatian port city with Mediterranean flair

Romantic, dreamy, Mediterranean: these are the buzzwords that come to mind when you think of the Croatian city of Rovinj. Some even think it is the most beautiful city in Croatia. The port town of Rovinj, which has only about 15,000 inhabitants, is located in the very north of the country, on the Istrian peninsula, directly on the Adriatic Sea. The history of the city is eventful.

In the second century AD, the Romans settled here. Later, Rovinj was under Byzantine rule. From the 13th century, Rovinj was Italian, later the Habsburgs took over, and finally the city was part of Yugoslavia. The Italians in particular have left their mark here: Rovinj is still bilingual – Croatian and Italian – and the Italian minority still makes up ten percent of the population. This is reflected in the way of life, as well as in the architecture and on the plate.

Mediterranean way of life between romantic bays and beaches

Rovinj from above
Aerial view of Rovinj, Image: F8 studio / shutterstock

Rovinj is located on a narrow promontory that juts far out into the Adriatic Sea. Here, visitors still breathe the flair of a small fishing village, where time sometimes stands still. Those who like it particularly quiet will love the 22 small islands off the coast of the city. By boat, for example, you can quickly get to Crveni Otok, which translates as “Red Island”.

The landscape on the islands is still wild, and particularly charming. But there are also magical beaches on the mainland, such as Borik Beach or Lone Bay. In Istria, the beaches are made up of small pebbles. The water around Rovinj is crystal clear, which is especially pleasing to snorkelers and divers who want to explore the surrounding underwater world. There are several professional diving schools in Rovinj. Sports enthusiasts can also rent kayaks to explore the many coves lined up along the coast. In the sunset, they look particularly picturesque.

Winding and rocky: the historic old town of Rovinj

Old Town Rovinj
The old town of Rovinj, Image: Tupungato / shutterstock

Especially in the hot midday hours, a walk through the shady old town of Rovinj is good. Istria has a Mediterranean climate: this means that the summer months can be very dry and hot.

The best time for a beach holiday is from June to September. In the remaining months, the climate is mild, which makes Rovinj an attractive holiday destination even in the low season. If you stroll through the old town alleys, you are walking on natural cobblestones. You enter the old town through the Venetian Porta Balbi, built in 1680. Here you can see the coat of arms of the winged Venetian lion. The Church of St. Euphemia is considered a landmark of Rovinj.

Its 60-metre-high church tower is visible from afar. But the interior of the church is also a feast for the eyes: the baroque church, built in the 18th century, is decorated with ornate paintings and Gothic statues. The alleys continue to wind their way to the Baptistery of the Holy Trinity. The heptagonal Romanesque church from the 12th century is the oldest building in the city, and for that reason alone it is worth a visit. Also from the 12th century is the glowing red Torre dell’Orologio: the clock tower.

In the past, it functioned as the south tower of the city wall, later as a prison. If you want to find out more about the history of the city, visit the local history museum before the old town walk leads through the streets of Trevisol and Garzotto. Here, between colourful houses with low doors and flower boxes, the wheel of time turns back and visitors feel wonderfully slowed down. Before heading back to the harbour, the Batana Museum invites you to take in historic wooden boats and fishing objects.

Between fjord and cave landscapes: magical excursions around Rovinj

Who would have thought that with the Limski Channel near Rovinj there is also a fjord to cross. The narrow inlet runs along the west coast of Istria. The low-salt fjord is best known for its fish and mussel farming. Oysters, seafood or Italian-inspired fish dishes, which end up on the plate in Rovinj’s restaurants in the evening, were often fished here.

Tourists like to take a boat trip through the nature reserve. The nature around the Linski Canal is wonderfully diverse. A real highlight is the cave of Romuald at the end of the Linski Canal. According to legend, the hermit Romuald lived here around 1,000 AD. The cave is a colourful stalactite cave that can be visited as part of guided tours.

If you prefer hiking to boating, the Limski Canal is the right place for you. A well-signposted hiking trail leads from Vrsar to Dvigrad, which can be mastered as a daily stage. The trail runs largely parallel to the Limski Canal. With the difference that you can now explore the waterway almost from a bird’s eye view, as the hiking trail is located high above the rocky cliffs. The destination of the hike is the ruined city of Dvigrad. The medieval village, which was once founded by the Illyrians, has been abandoned since 1631, and has been falling into disrepair ever since. Dvigrad used to be an important trading center. Two castle ruins and a lot of dilapidated sacred and secular buildings can be visited here. People once fled Dvigrad because plague and malaria had a firm grip on the city.

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