Logo Reisemagazin
Tuesday, June 10, 2025
Home Blog Page 184

Manchester: Working-class city with a lot of heart

PatrickJullien
-
0
Manchester: Working-class city with a lot of heart

For most tourists, the classic city trip to England leads to London or Edinburgh in Scotland. Two cities that are undoubtedly worth a trip and have their charm. But the cities in the northwest of England are still considered undiscovered by many tourists. Cities like Manchester have a lot of heart and soul that are worth getting to know.

Beetham Tower, Manchester
View of the Beetham Tower, Image: SAKhanPhotography / shutterstock

Grey, dark and a lot of industry: the historical image of Manchester has little glamour to offer and suffered from the same impression as the British capital London. As a textile centre in the 18th century, the city was considered an important hub for the British economy, in which Manchester played an important role in the Industrial Revolution. Due to the numerous canals that flow through the city, the city was perfect for cotton mills. The water power, which was thus naturally available, was a valuable advantage for the workers and production. However, the boom also brought disadvantages.

The increasing population caused overpopulation, which led to unemployment. Today, however, Manchester has developed into a modern, open and diverse city that is highly recommended for a weekend getaway.

Getting to Manchester

Many providers fly to Manchester from German airports. Whether Munich, Hamburg or Berlin: Almost every major German city offers the possibility to fly to Manchester. The relatively short non-stop flight time of three to four hours makes it easy to get there for spontaneous city trips from mainland Europe . Due to the convenient connection between the airport and the centre, the journey takes 40 minutes by train and can be enjoyed in a relaxed manner without changing trains.

Most tourists will get off at Manchester Piccadilly. Anyone who thinks of the London namesake here will be disappointed. The Manchester Piccadilly is the main train station and has nothing to do with the imposing neon signs in the City of London . In this area you can find many cheap hotels that offer good rooms for little money. Furthermore, it only takes 10 minutes on foot to reach the city center. There is hardly a better starting point for weekend travelers!

What should visitors discover in Manchester?

No question: When you think of Manchester, you will inevitably think of Manchester United’s “Red Devils”. Real fans will try to experience one of the coveted home games live. If there is no one during the travel season, it is still recommended to visit the stadium on a tour. Old Trafford is located just outside behind Quayside MediaCity in the Trafford district of the same name. It’s worth taking the journey – even for non-fans! If there is not enough time, you should at least try to watch one of the games among fans in a pub (be careful when choosing!). The atmosphere is legendary and can be heated up when betting on the right sports betting tips . Currently, the betting odds for ManU in the British Premier League are 101.00 (as of 15.3.). Arch-enemy Manchester City, on the other hand, leads the possible victory table with 1.01. In the event of a fierce derby, ignorant tourists should rather beware.

Old Trafford, Manchester
Old Trafford, Manchester United’s home ground, Image: berm_teerawat / shutterstock

Apart from the passion for football, the city has even more to offer. A stroll through Chinatown lets you immerse yourself in another world for a short moment. It is considered the second largest quarter of its kind within the UK and the third largest in Europe. At the imposing entrance gate, which cannot be overlooked, a souvenir photo should definitely be taken. In the Chetham’s Library, on the other hand, a touch of philosophy, history and Harry Potter wafts through the corridors. The wonderful building, founded in 1635, is one of the oldest public libraries in England. Even Friedrich Engels and Karl Marx sat in the venerable rooms and put their thoughts on paper.

Adventure and good humor

Fountain in Piccadilly Garden in Manchester city centre
Fountain in Piccadilly Garden in Manchester city centre, Image: SAKhanPhotography / shutterstock

More action can be experienced in the live experience “The Crystal Maze”. Visitors need devilish challenges and a lot of strength when they go in search of the crystals. Based on the TV show of the same name from the 1990s, fans are transported to the real setting and have to solve various puzzles in different eras. Whether as a motley group or with friends: This adventure is a real highlight!

To end the day full of impressions, a walk along Canal Street is the right choice. In the lively pubs and bars, which are mainly run by the LGBTQ community, it is clear that Manchester continues to impress with good humour, quirky characters and dazzling charm even after sunset. At the regular karaoke evenings, strangers very quickly become friends that you take to your heart. Cosmopolitan and a bit rough: This is where Europe shows its warm, down-to-earth side to visitors.

 

Santa Maria in the Azores

PatrickJullien
-
0
Santa Maria in the Azores

Roland Kaiser already sang in his song “Santa Maria” about the longing that the Portuguese Atlantic island triggers in many travellers. The small island of about 5,000 inhabitants is not usually in the spotlight. It is not only the geologically oldest island in the Azores, but also offers good conditions for a relaxing holiday with its unique geology, nature and tranquillity.

Arrival and climatic features

Santa Maria belongs to Portugal and is part of the archipelago of the Azores, of which it is the southernmost island. From the island of Sao Miguel you can take the ferry to the island within 2.5 hours. However, the most common way to enter the country is by plane. There are daily flights from Sao Miguel via the airport and several times a week from the Portuguese capital Lisbon . In principle, the island can be visited all year round, although the summer months are particularly suitable for beach holidays, as it rains more often in autumn, especially in the east. The island’s climate is warmest from April to September, with an average of 23 degrees Celsius, and around 17 to 18 degrees in the winter months.

Scenic and cultural features of the island

Santa Maria is known for its different landscapes, among other things. The island combines beaches as well as green hilly landscapes, mountains and barren landscapes. Although it is of volcanic origin, it is formed from sedimentary rock and continues to rise to this day.

In the center of the island is the Pico Alto, the highest mountain, which is actually only 587 m high and is connected to the plain by a road. From the local panorama you can follow the scenic division of the island into the fundamentally different western and eastern parts. In the west of the island, which is generally rather flat, there is a semi-desert, the “Barreiro da Faneca”. It is a unique, undulating landscape of red-coloured clay deposits that give the landscape its typical appearance and is a protected area.

Here in the west are also many agricultural areas and farms as well as the island’s civil airport. The east of the island is rather green, humid and characterized by mountainous landscapes. Here you can cross the landscape lined with vineyards and many country estates on a variety of hiking trails. On the coasts of the island in the south and east, bays and sandy beaches predominate, which are frequented by many bathers. Overall, the landscape of Santa Maria can therefore be described as varied.

Sights and possible activities

Farol da Maia, Santa Maria
Farol da Maia, Image: Anibal Trejo / shutterstock

The cultural life of the island takes place in the small towns and villages. The oldest town of Vila do Porto is also home to one of the oldest churches, the Igreja Matriz Nossa, which appears completely in white. In addition, the fortress of São Brás and the Franciscan monastery are places of tourist interest. Typical of the city are the gray-painted houses, which differ in color from city to city. In Vila do Porto, as in the rest of the island, wine consumption plays an important role.

Important original industries of Santa Maria are the production of pottery, which can be purchased all over the island as souvenirs, fishing and agriculture. The cultural highlight of the island is the Mare do Agosto music festival, which takes place every year in August on the white sandy beach of Praia Formosa and features artists from different musical genres. For tourists, the scenic aspects and hiking activities are of particular interest. The hiking trails and roads throughout the island lead to geological formations worth seeing, such as the Ribeira do Maloas waterfall or the Gruta do Figueiral cave, among others.

The numerous diving reserves with their great diversity are also popular and are home to one of the highest biodiversity in the region. You can learn more about underwater life at the Centro de Interpretacao Ambiental museum in Vila do Porto, among other places. A popular vantage point is the Farol de Gonçalo Velho lighthouse at the southeastern tip of the island. Next to it is another panoramic point in the town of Santa Bárbara, from which you can easily overlook the landscape of the island and the sea. Here in the region are the small island of Ilhéu de São Lourenço and the unique rock face Poço da Pedreira, which are also worth a visit.

Short trip to Amsterdam – insider tips for your next city trip

PatrickJullien
-
0
Short trip to Amsterdam – insider tips for your next city trip

Unfortunately, it is not yet clear to what extent large holiday trips will be possible again in the coming summer. It is therefore worthwhile to plan spontaneously. City trips are particularly suitable for this, because you can see and experience a lot in a short time. Along with London, Paris and Rome, Amsterdam is one of the top destinations for city trips in Europe – no wonder, because the Dutch metropolis has a lot to offer visitors.

These are the must-see sights

What do you have to see in Amsterdam? If you want to explore Amsterdam, you should of course choose a few hotspots to visit before the trip. The best activities are packed with the most beautiful places the city has to offer. These are our favorites:

  • the wonderful city centre near the train station
  • The Anne Frank House
  • the picturesque canals and bridges
  • the Red Light District

Away from the tourist destinations

It is worth checking out these sights, because they are simply part of it. But many travel enthusiasts are also looking for destinations that are off the beaten track.

In Amsterdam, the flea market at the Waterlooplein is particularly recommended. There, nostalgics can browse through vintage items and cool designs from Monday to Saturday. If you don’t want to buy typical souvenirs such as magnets for friends, you are sure to find unique souvenirs there.

If you want to admire the canals in peace, you can visit the two man-made islands Prinseneiland and Realeneiland. These are considered less touristy and offer pure Amsterdam flair.

A shopping spree through the 9 Straatjes is also a hit. The small side streets are bursting with unique and loving boutiques. If you don’t want to shop, you can simply enjoy the ambience of the picturesque houses from the 17th century.

Intoxicatingly good activities

The headline already reveals what we are getting at. Amsterdam without a visit to the coffee shop is like never having been to Amsterdam. Of course, you don’t have to smoke a joint, but you should still experience the atmosphere once. The hustle and bustle in the most popular coffee shops will remain in your memory forever.

If you don’t want to go to coffee shops on principle, you can also get a taste of the Trippy World far away from marijuana consumption. Small hostels such as St. Christopher’s Inn near the train station or The Bulldog Hotel pick up on the scene and give even the most sober visitors insights into the world of intoxication.

Artists have turned the hotel rooms into works of art that become real cinema after a joint. But even when sober, the exciting design elements and paintings are absolutely fascinating.

And so the visit rightly ranks among the 15 best things to do in Amsterdam after Zamnesia.

Sundays in Amsterdam – what you can do

Tulips Amsterdam Netherlands
A beautiful sea of tulips in the middle of Amsterdam

In the Netherlands, too, things are rather quiet on Sundays. Nevertheless, most museums are open, as are the coffee shops. After getting up, you can pass the time in one of the beautiful restaurants on the canals with a hearty English breakfast. Likewise, some smaller markets in hip neighborhoods are open on Sundays – including, for example, the one in the Jordaan district, which connoisseurs call the SoHo of Amsterdam. If you are mobile, you can also go to the beach on Sundays – it is not far away. Within about 40 minutes, you can then unwind on the Dutch coast. In this way, the short city trip can be combined with a beach holiday.

Tips for rainy days

Amsterdam – what to do when it rains? You must have imagined your city trip to be more beautiful. In the sunshine, “fietsen” along the canals, i.e. cycling, or simply strolling through the city. Unfortunately, the weather in the northern metropolis does not always play along.

But museums help to experience something even in the worst weather. The National Art Gallery or the Van Gogh Museum are among the must-sees, but time also flies at the EYE Film Museum. If you like sports, you might even be able to attend a game of the famous Ajax Amsterdam in the stadium of the same name. Although the arena cannot be assigned to the secret corners of Amsterdam, a visit to a football match there is one of the real insider tips. The arena can be reached by bus or train with a dry head.

 

Experience adventures in Germany

PatrickJullien
-
0
Experience adventures in Germany

When the author Franziska Consolati talks about her travels on her blog, you don’t get to know classic holiday reports. The reader is taken on an eventful story by her narrative style. For example, you can literally hear the tension crackle when, for example, you sit still in the eye of an elephant in the African steppe.

After reporting on her trip to Mongolia in 2019, she is now publishing her second book “Around the World in Germany ” in April of this year. We are very pleased that Franziska Consolati was available to answer a few questions:

Franziska Consolati
Published: April 2021 (1st edition) Hardcover ISBN: 978-3-95889-387-0 € 24,95 [D] • € 25,70 [A] • SFr. 35,90* [CH] © Conbook Medien GmbH / Franziska Consolati
In 8 days across the Alps, by bike through Iceland and on foot through Mongolia. Is there always a certain “adventure” part of your travels? Or can it be a week’s beach vacation and putting your feet up?I haven’t actually taken a beach vacation since I came of age and can decide for myself where my travels take me. A day at the beach? With pleasure. But I’m much too curious for several days. It’s not at all that I can’t sit still, or I’m driven. Quite the opposite: Quiet breaks in nature are becoming more and more conscious and longer, and I also like to put my feet up 🙂 But preferably after being outside for a long time.

 

In your new book “Around the World in Germany” you present exotic activities from all over the world. The special thing, however, is that you can experience all these adventures in Germany. Had you been toying with the idea of exploring your home country for a long time or did this idea develop due to the Corona pandemic?
Even before Corona, I asked myself more and more often why we actually look at our homeland with different eyes than the rest of the world. An example: There is a road in the Alps that I have driven along hundreds of times in the past ten years. There we are out and about in the forest for a long time until we arrive at a hilltop and the trees open up the view: In front of us lies an impressive panorama of the Bavarian Alps. If this road were somewhere else, if this moment had happened while traveling, I would have pulled over immediately to the right to enjoy the view. I probably would have even taken a photo. But that never happened here – until a few months ago.

So I would say that the awareness that we don’t have to travel far away to experience something new, something unforgettable, has developed long before. Corona has certainly accelerated this development significantly.

Is there an adventure in Germany that has inspired you so much that you might want to experience it again?
A few! If we like something, it would be a shame to tick off the experience just because we already know it. Above all, I would like to experience the adventures that take place in nature at any time of the year. Whales, for example, I can’t see often enough.

Simssee
Franziska Consolati enjoys the sunset at the Simssee, Image: © Conbook Medien GmbH / Franziska Consolati

For many of our readers, the holiday only begins as soon as you sit on a plane or have crossed the national borders. Do you have any tips on how to fully enjoy the experiences even on a weekend trip – without thinking about everyday life?
Turn off your smartphone! 🙂 I do this regularly now, even when I “just” want to disappear into nature for an afternoon. I strongly associate the feeling of not being available, of not quickly ending up in an app during a break, with being away. Otherwise, of course, it helps to keep the favorite habits from all the long vacations on short trips: turn up the music in the car, turn down the windows, leave the clock at home. Whatever it is that we look forward to when we think about the next vacation.

I would like to go into one more statement from your book:
“And without having to fear that we may not make it to this place a second time in this life.”
 This sentence spontaneously triggers a lot of positive memories in me. Although I also believe that these special moments can no longer be experienced so intensively on a second visit to the site. What makes the perfect moment on holiday for you?
The perfect moments are usually the unplanned, the spontaneous ones. The moments that we had absolutely no expectations of, because we couldn’t know that it would be a moment at all. On a temple tour, for example, it is the moment when the sun shines through the window in the ceiling at exactly the right moment, or a nice conversation with a monk. When diving, the perfect moment is not the brightly colored school of fish that we really want to see, but perhaps the feeling when we finally lie perfectly in the current and feel like astronauts.

And if we visit a beautiful place a second time without expecting it to be exactly the same as in our memory of the first time – then we might even find something completely new in that place.

Can you tell us where your next trip will take you? Maybe across the country’s borders again?
As soon as travel within Germany is possible (and responsible) again, I am very happy to continue exploring our home country with our VW bus. For a weekend, for a little longer, on our doorstep and corners that I don’t even know yet.

In the summer, we will probably also cross a border: namely the one to Sweden. On the way there, however, we will take a lot of time in Germany.

Information about the author:

To a wine after … Veneto!

PatrickJullien
-
0
To a wine after … Veneto!

Italy is a destination for all the senses: lively cities, beautiful landscapes, culinary delights and, last but not least, world-famous wine. As a wine country, Italy is remarkable in several respects: Italy is one of the most important wine producers in the world and the cradle of Western European viticulture: with the Romans, wine came to Germany and many other countries. Italy is one of the few countries in the world that has a vibrant wine culture in all regions from north to south. Even today, “Bella Italia” is home to over 1,000 grape varieties.

The first parts of our wine tour took us to
Sicily
,
Puglia
 and
Piedmont
. The fourth part now takes us to one of the most exciting and diverse wine-growing regions in Italy: Veneto. Everyone knows the capital of Veneto: Venice. The world-famous lagoon city, like Lake Garda to the west of it, is one of the most popular travel destinations for Germans. But the northern Italian region, between the Alps and the Adriatic Sea, has much more to offer, especially from the perspective of wine lovers. Veneto is home to some of Italy’s most famous and popular wines.

Veneto: Endless variety of wines

Veneto, as Veneto is called in Italian, should not be missing on any gourmet trip through Italy. With around 75,000 hectares, Veneto is not only one of the largest wine regions in Italy, but also undoubtedly one of the most diverse. Hardly any other region combines as many well-known appellations as the designations of origin are called in wine. In total, there are said to be over 100,000 wineries in Veneto, most of which are very small. So there is a lot to discover here.

How about e.g. with a fresh, fruity Lugana from Lake Garda? Or an elegant, finely effervescent Prosecco Valdobbiadene? Or an opulent Amarone, that famous wine made from dried grapes? The list of wines can be continued: Soave, Valpolicella, Bardolino, Ripasso and so on. Many of the wines mentioned come from the province of Verona, which is the most important in winemaking. Verona is also home to the annual Vinitaly wine fair – the largest wine fair in Italy and a paradise for wine lovers.

Our wine tip: Tenuta Sant Antonio Monti Garbi Valpolicella Superiore Ripasso DOC 2018

This wine has a long name. But it’s worth remembering. Because this Ripasso of the Tenuta Sant Antonio offers an extraordinary amount of enjoyment for little money. Ripasso is a special Veneto specialty, which is often referred to as the little brother of Amarone. Literally translated, Ripasso means “new passage”, a reference to the special production method of this red wine: a young Valpolicella wine is subjected to a new fermentation using Amarone pomace. This gives it more volume, a stronger color and other characteristics of the Amarone, but is not quite as powerful as its big brother – and significantly cheaper. The Monte Garbi Ripasso is characterized by a very harmonious, flattering taste, which finishes out delightfully spicy. A great wine that delights both wine lovers and wine critics.

Curious? You can order this great wine
here from our partner Televino
.

 

Vanuatu – wild volcano adventure in the South Pacific

PatrickJullien
-
0
Vanuatu – wild volcano adventure in the South Pacific

The exotic names of the dream islands in the South Pacific such as Fiji, Samoa or Tonga are no longer unknown in the memory of the German holidaymaker. The situation is different with the island island of Vanuatu, which is currently still comparatively undeveloped for tourism – even though Vanuatu has so much to offer.

Spread over 83 islands, visitors will find everything an adventurer’s heart desires, from active volcanoes, beautiful sandy beaches and dense jungle to originally living peoples. Vanuatu, or as it is called, Ripablik Blong Vanuatu, has been an independent state since 1906 and home to around 293,000 inhabitants (as of 2018).

According to studies, these are among the happiest in the world. The capital and political and cultural center is Port-Vila on the island of Efate. A fifth of the inhabitants of the island state live here and Vanuatu’s only international airport is located here, which can be reached from Germany in about 22 hours with a change. In Vanuatu, payment is made with the Vatu, for one euro you get about 130 Vatu. The time zone in Vanuatu is 10 hours ahead of ours and the best time to visit is from June to September. German citizens do not need a visa to enter the country for a stay of a maximum of 90 days and a confirmed return ticket.

Sights and highlights in Vanuatu

Efate – The island of the capital Port-Vila of Vanuatu

The island of Efate is also called “Port-Vila” by the inhabitants of Vanuatu, after the capital of the country located on it. It is the most densely populated island of all and in the vast majority of cases the starting point for onward travel to the more remote islands. Efate has by far the best infrastructure in all of Vanuatu and a wide selection of hotels. For visitors, it is always worthwhile to spend a night in Port-Vila.

Here you can get in the mood for Vanuatu and buy fruit, art and souvenirs from all parts of the country while walking through the Port-Vila Markets. By the way, Port-Vila is one of the most culturally diverse cities in the world – its inhabitants are made up of over one hundred Melanesian language and cultural groups.



Efate is also home to the only surfing beach in Vanuatu. Pango Beach promises high waves and great surfing, while the waters on other beaches and islands are generally very calm. Snorkeling enthusiasts will find Hideaway Island not far from Port Vila, a true underwater paradise.

Malecula – melting pot of Melanesia

Malekula is the second largest island in the country. However, it is home to by far the greatest cultural diversity in Vanuatu and is therefore a popular destination. The island can be reached by regular flights or ferries from Santo and Port-Vila. Guided hikes on the island are particularly popular, which, among other things, visit original villages and let their guests participate in customs and rituals. There are also a variety of beautiful waterfalls on Malekula, including the Botko Waterfall and the Losinwei Waterfall. Many visitors also come to see the manatees or dugongs living off the coast of the island, although they are very shy and rare.

Ambrym – the volcanic island

Ambrym, Vanuatu
Ambrym on Vanuatu, Image: Nina Janesikova / shutterstock

The island of Ambrym is home to two active volcanoes. Both have a lava lake in their center, an extremely rare phenomenon. There are only 5 places in the world where you can see one. However, if you want to see the lava lake, you have to take an arduous path, because both can only be reached in 2 to 3 day hikes. Hikes can be arranged from Craig’s Cove, either with a return to Craig’s Cove or with a further hike to Olal in the north or Ulei in the east of Ambrym.

Santo Espiritu – the largest of the islands

Santo Espiritu
Santo Espiritu, Image: Martin Valigursky / shutterstock

Santo Espiritu, or Santo for short by the locals, is the largest of the 83 islands of Vanuatu. The east coast of Santo Espiritus is well developed and has paved roads. The interior of the island as well as the north and west coasts can only be reached via dirt roads. The biggest attraction of this island is undoubtedly the famous blue lagoons of Vanuatu. These hidden lagoons deliver what they promise and enchant their visitors with turquoise blue and crystal clear waters, surrounded by a dreamlike jungle landscape. The lagoons on Santo are called Nanda Blue Hole, Riri Blue Hole and Matevulu Blue Hole. Other highlights of the island are the Millennium Cave and the dream beaches of Lonnoc Beach, Champagne Beach and Port Olry. Divers discover a colorful and vibrant underwater world with the SS Coolridge or visit war estates at Million Dollar Point.

Pentecost – an island for adventurers

The island of Pentecost is one of the easternmost islands in the country. There is high rainfall here almost all year round. Pentecost is famous for its liana jumpers. Every year between April and June, high diving towers are built for them, from which they plunge into the depths, secured only with lianas. The liana jumping heralds the yam harvest season and is supposed to ensure a rich harvest. Otherwise, Pentecost is difficult to travel to – there is an off-road road on the west coast and the east coast is de facto only accessible by boat.

Things worth knowing about Vanuatu

What continent is Vanuatu on?

Vanuatu belongs to Melanesia in Oceania.

What is the population of Vanuatu?

Vanuatu has 293,000 inhabitants (as of 2018)

What currency do you use to pay in Vanuatu?

The currency in Vanuatu is called Vatu. One euro is equivalent to (as of 2/2021) about 130 Vatu.

What language is spoken in Vanuatu?

Bislama, also known as Bichelamar, Bêche-de-mer, or Beach-la-Mar, is one of the official languages of the Republic of Vanuatu, along with English and French.

Skopje – a city trip for individualists and the curious

PatrickJullien
-
0
Skopje – a city trip for individualists and the curious

The Skopje Summer Festival has been held annually in Skopje since 1979. A whole summer month full of art can be experienced, with music, theatrical performances, films, multimedia performances and much more, both open air and in halls.

But what attracts tourists to Skopje besides the festival? More on this below. First of all: A visit to the city is also worthwhile for museum lovers and music enthusiasts.

It is not of beguiling beauty like Paris or Rome, not a tourist magnet like London or Istanbul. Skopje is an extraordinary destination a bit off the beaten track. It is a city for explorers.

Skopje is the capital of the Balkan state of North Macedonia, located between Serbia, Bulgaria, Greece, Albania and Kosovo. This city, which is proud to be 2000 years old, looks back on an eventful history. It is multi-ethnic and multi-religious and offers a lot of interesting sights and culture if travelers are willing to get to know the unfamiliar and foreign.

Skopje is also home to the government and economic center of the country. Both the church (Orthodox Christianity) and the Islamic religious community (Sunnis) have their headquarters in the city.

Location of Skopje

Boatmen of Thessaloniki in Skopje
The monument: Boatmen of Thessaloniki, Image: Leonid Andronov / shutterstock

Skopje is located in the north of the country, just under 20 kilometers from the border with Kosovo . The Vardar River meanders through the city, and Mount Vodno is in the immediate vicinity.

Climate and travel time Skopje

Wet and cold winters do not make a trip here at this time of year enjoyable. Summers, on the other hand, are warm and dry, giving the city an almost Mediterranean climate. April to October are good travel months; August and September offer ideal weather conditions.

History, sights and culture

Romans and Ottomans have left their mark, more recently the socialist regime of the former Yugoslavia.

The great earthquake of 1963 also changed the face of the city. The Eurasian and African plates collide here and cause tectonic activity that led to large earthquakes in 518, 1515 and 1963. The last one has reduced most of the old town to rubble, more than 1000 people lost their lives, three quarters of the population lost their homes. The reconstruction took only a few years and was realized with international help under the leadership of the Japanese architect Kenzo Tange.

Worth seeing and unique in its extent is the Roma settlement Shutka, a completely different world from the city centre of Skopje.

Travelers should not miss the bazaar, as well as the Museum of the Old Bazaar, housed in a 15th-century caravanserai, which displays photographs and maps from the period as well as goods from the Ottoman era.

Museums

Archaeological Museum Skopje
The Archaeological Museum, Image: Andrii Lutsyk / shutterstock

The largest art collection in the country can be admired in the Museum of Contemporary Art .

On the site of the railway station, built in 1938 and destroyed by the earthquake of 1963, there is now a small gallery and museum of the city, which exhibits evidence of settlement, starting with the first traces of prehistoric times.

The Mother Teresa Memorial House reports on the life and work of the nun and Nobel Peace Prize winner and her humanist commitment.

In 1991, the Archaeological, Historical and Ethnological Museums merged to form the Museum of Macedonia. It is set up in an Ottoman building from the 16th century and displays exhibits, the oldest of which date back to antiquity, on an area of about 6000 square meters.

Adjacent to the zoo, the botanical garden and the city park is the Natural Science Museum , which houses about 4000 exhibits, mainly fossils, plants and insects.

Just as many exhibits from the realm of minerals, plants and animals can be found in the Natural History Museum.

Libraries, literature and theatres

The National and University Library in the city centre is the largest library in the country, with around 60,000 books, sheet music and magazines housed in the city library .

The Linden Festival, founded in 1997 by the Macedonian Writers’ Association, is considered one of the most important literary events in the country. It takes place every year in June during the lime blossom season. Macedonian and international authors participate.

The Open Youth Theatre Festival offers a platform for experimental performances and improvisational theatre of the young scene.

Music

The May Opera Evenings at the National Theatre are dedicated to classical music.
Do you prefer blues, soul, jazz? The Blues and Soul Festival takes place in July, the Skopje Jazz Festival in October.

Arrival and arrival

German nationals do not need a visa, only an identity card or passport. (As of June 2019)

There are many very inexpensive flights. Skopje Airport is located just outside the city, with which it is connected by low-cost buses or taxis for a maximum of 20 euros.

Otherwise, payment is made in Macedonian dinars. ATMs are available at the airport. North Macedonia does not belong to the EU and not to the European Monetary Union!

Skopje, the capital of the former Yugoslav Republic of North Macedonia, is several thousand years old. Visually, however, it appears only a few years young. The reason: In 1963, a major earthquake almost completely destroyed the city. The controversial “Skopje 2014” construction project gave the city a new face in neo-baroque and neoclassical style. For tourists, this means that the biggest attraction is the city of Skopje itself.

Skopje unites the whole world

Skopje is home to architectural highlights from all over the world in a very small space. The French L’Arc de Triomphe stands in a slightly smaller edition than the original, at the gateway to the heart of the city centre, Macedonia Square. Here the building is called Porta Makedonija. Visitors can get there on a red double-decker bus, which looks exactly like the more famous examples from London. And the Wall Street bull is represented as well as a huge edition of the Greek Alexander the Great.

This list could be continued endlessly. Skopje is teeming with sculptures depicting more or less world-famous personalities that were erected as part of the “Skopje 2014” urban renewal plan. A total of more than 70 sculptures cavort throughout the city center, with many artists and scholars populating the Art Bridge in front of the opera house. Spanned over the Vardar River, and located in a rather idyllic neighborhood of numerous bars and restaurants that offer a view of the bridge and monumental buildings on the opposite side of the river, it is a popular photo motif.

First functional, then chic

Just like the sculptures, the antique-looking buildings run through the entire city center, inviting you to take an architectural walk. After the great destruction of 1963, the city center of Skopje was rebuilt in exposed concrete using the Eastern European rapid construction method. It was functional, but it didn’t look very nice. The buildings in the socialist uniform gray are still standing. However, their facades are now clad and symbolize pomp and splendour. The best example of this is the seat of government of North Macedonia.

Formerly a purely functional building, visitors now believe they are in front of the White House in Washington. If you want to learn more about this sometimes absurd transformation of Skopje, from a disaster scene to a modern Disneyland, you can book a guided walking tour. Well-trained tour guides explain the background to the change in all kinds of foreign languages and also provide information about the political system and the social situation of the country.

Socialist Brutalism

Another highlight is the former main post office of Skopje, which was built in the 1970s in the style of socialist brutalism. It looks like a lotus flower made of concrete. A few years ago, there was a fire in the main hall of the post office. Since then, only the offices and an adjoining wing have been used as a post office. The main hall remains closed, but can be “visited” in an unchanged state for all those who dare to peek through the glass entrance door.

The Bit-Pazar

From there, cross the Stone Bridge, which has connected the two sides of the Vardar River since the 15th century, to the Old Bazaar, the Bit-Pazar. Here, many of the traders do not speak Macedonian, like the majority of the country, but Albanian. The Albanian minority, which makes up almost a quarter of the country’s population, is completely in its Muslim tradition here. Walkers are reminded of famous Ottoman bazaar streets. Small shops sell a lot of gold jewellery and Muslim traditional costumes.

Tea, Turkish coffee and sweets are available on every corner. A former hammam is now used as a museum. The five mosques in the area, such as the Mustafa Pasha Mosque, are accessible and some of them can be visited. In the garden of the Mustafa Pasha Mosque, photo or art exhibitions also take place from time to time.

Kale Fortress

In the immediate vicinity of the bazaar, the Kale fortress towers high above the old town. Or rather, what is left of it. Today, only the outer walls of the formerly stately fortress remain. These, however, are equipped with stones from the 6th century. Archaeological excavations have been taking place on the fortress grounds for years. The fortress wall can be walked on a circular path and offers a magnificent view over the old and new town.

Mother Teresa – the most famous daughter of the city of Skopje

Mother Teresa, who was born in Skopje in 1910 as a member of the Albanian minority, was world-famous. Anjezë Gonxhe Bojaxhiu, as her civil name is, grew up in poor circumstances. In her honour, the Mother Teresa Memorial House, along with the Roman Catholic Church, was built in 2008. Inside the memorial house, original furnishings from Mother Teresa’s childhood home can be seen. Some manuscripts and documents from her life, as well as numerous photos, also bring visitors closer to the work of the famous saint.

Excursion to the local mountain Vodno

Don’t miss a trip to Skopje’s local mountain, Vodno. From the city centre, the mountain can be hiked within about three hours. The path leads through quite steep forests, which offer views halfway along the route. If you are not so good on foot, take the red double-decker bus to the middle of the Vodno. From there, a cable car leads to the summit. Once there, you look far down on the city, and only here you realize how long it nestles completely left and right against the Vardar River. From the summit cross of Vodno, numerous hiking trails to the surrounding mountains and canyons can be chosen. But be careful: there are still bears in North Macedonia.

Bad Neuenahr-Ahrweiler – Relaxation and enjoyment in the charming Ahr Valley

PatrickJullien
-
0
Bad Neuenahr-Ahrweiler – Relaxation and enjoyment in the charming Ahr Valley

We are dismayed to see the current images of the heavy rain disaster in Ahrweiler. We wish all affected residents and relatives all the best. On behalf of our readers, we would like to thank the emergency services on site!

In the midst of the picturesque backdrop of the Ahr Valley lies the Rhineland-Palatinate town of Bad Neuenahr-Ahrweiler. The historical architecture dates from different eras. In the over 1000-year-old district of Ahrweiler, medieval flair prevails. The old city wall with moat, lovingly restored half-timbered houses and four imposing city gates – in Ahrweiler you unmistakably walk in the footsteps of the Romans. As in earlier days, numerous events such as winegrowers’ festivals and the traditional Christmas market invite you to celebrate and enjoy on the historic market square.

Recharge your batteries: Bad Neuenahr spa

Kurpark Bad Neuenahr
Kurpark Bad Neuenahr, Image: Sina Ettmer Photography

Much younger than Ahrweiler is the Heilbad Neuenahr. Architecture and atmosphere are determined by the Wilhelminian period. Well-kept parks, the charming spa district with its magnificent villas and spa hotels as well as the Ahr river rippling through the middle of the village invite you to take a leisurely stroll. In the spa gardens, you can linger under old trees, enjoy the sight of colourful flower beds and the rising healing spring – Bad Neuenahr became known not least for the origin of the Apollinaris spring. In addition to relaxation and recreation, the spa gardens offer cultural highlights such as concerts, theatre performances and cabaret. And if you want to try your monetary luck, head to the former Kurhaus, which is now home to the casino.

Medical help can also be found in Bad Neuenahr: The health centre comprises 15 clinics in almost all disciplines. The Ahr thermal baths are an excellent addition to medical treatment. They live up to their reputation as one of the most beautiful thermal spa landscapes in Europe with an extensive wellness offer. Whether indoors or outdoors, swimming through bubbling thermal pools, in the sauna area or relaxing in one of the whirlpools – pleasant relaxation is guaranteed here. The ceremony ends in the restaurant with regional and Mediterranean delicacies.

Excellent wine gastronomy

Ahr Valley, Bad Neuenahr
Viticulture plays a major role in the Ahr Valley, Image: M. Volk / shutterstock

Culinary cravings are satisfied throughout Bad Neuenahr-Ahrweiler. The fine wines from the local viticulture are widely known. In the midst of the wildly romantic beauty of the Ahr Valley with its bizarre rocks, lush green meadows and extensive forests, fine wines have been grown for centuries. The work on the steep vineyard terraces is not exactly comfortable, but it is richly rewarded: The excellent wines have received many awards and are among the top wines in Germany. The focus is on red wine, and Pinot Noir in particular enjoys the very best reputation.

Both locals and visitors can enjoy the delicious wines on site – preferably with tasty cuisine. There are plenty of opportunities to do so: Numerous traditional and modern restaurants, rustic wine taverns, bistros and cafés invite you to enjoy a culinary experience with regional and international cuisine.

Hiking, cycling, climbing

Along the hiking and cycling routes there are also opportunities to stop for a bite to eat, rest and enjoy the charming landscape. There are plenty of hiking trails in the Ahr Valley, as it is one of the most popular hiking areas in Germany. At any time of the year, the unique natural landscape with its bizarre rocks and extensive meadows can be explored at your own pace. In spring, the awakening nature fascinates, in summer shady forest paths provide pleasant cooling and in autumn you can also get up close and personal with winegrowers during the harvest. Even in winter, the Ahr Valley enchants with a very special atmosphere.

In addition to beautiful hiking tours from the source of the Ahr to the mouth of the Rhine, hiking events are also offered in summer temperatures. For example, the Ahr Valley Summit Festival, the Wine Hiking Weeks and the AhrSteig Adventure Day will be convivial. And if you want to combine hiking with culture, you can opt for routes that include the Calvarienberg Monastery or the Roemervilla.

You can also get your money’s worth here by bike and mountain bike. Whether relaxing with the whole family on the almost flat Ahr cycle path or sporty and professional on challenging routes – all tours on foot or on wheels have one thing in common: they surprise again and again with spectacular views and far-reaching views. The 70 climbing stations of the forest climbing park in Bad Neuenahr and the rope park with its high ropes course also promise beautiful views. Both locations offer both beginners and experts a lot of climbing fun.

Idyllic castle ruins of Are

Not only children are enthusiastic about a trip to Are Castle, which towers majestically above the village of Altenahr. While the Counts of Are once resided there, the restored ruins are now a place that brings times long past back to life. Perfect photo motifs included. During the extensive renovation, even the well system was exposed, the shaft allows a deep view down to the groundwater.

If you want to enjoy a historical costume tour in addition to the phenomenal view of rock massifs, vineyards and Kreuzberg Castle, you should plan your excursion on the first or third Saturday of the month.

From the government bunker to the winegrowers’ museum

Plenty of cultural fare for the rare rainy days in the Ahr Valley: A section of the government bunker – once the most secret place in the Federal Republic of Germany – has been accessible to all visitors interested in the relics of the Cold War since 2008.

The fact that viticulture and agriculture were incomparably more arduous in earlier times than today can be seen during a visit to the winegrowers’ museum in Bachem. How did it manage to cultivate the steep vineyards without today’s technology? And what is a Jrondbottem? These questions and much more are answered vividly in the Old Backhouse.

If you want to learn interesting details about the country and people of this enchanting spot on earth, make your way to Blankenheim. The Eifel Museum provides plenty of background information and insights into the historical development of the region.

The Museum of Local History and Technology in Bad Bodendorf is also dedicated to local history and the linking of old and new. As a foretaste of the visit on site, numerous objects can be admired via the Internet platform. The new Schützenmuseum in Ahrweiler is taking a similar approach and integrating new media into its exhibition. Here you get insights into shooting that are otherwise only granted at shooting festivals.

Overnight stay in Bad Neuenahr-Ahrweiler

The decision to spend a relaxing stay in Bad Neuenahr-Ahrweiler has been made, but where can you spend the night? – There are many possibilities. Whether it’s a private holiday apartment, a hospitable guesthouse, a relaxed stay in a wellness hotel or a campsite close to nature – everyone will find their own night’s sleep to start the next, eventful day well rested.

Pforzheim – The gold piece of the Black Forest

PatrickJullien
-
0
Pforzheim – The gold piece of the Black Forest

Pforzheim is the gateway to the northern Black Forest. However, the Gold City, as it is called because of its jewellery and watch industry, is more of a beauty at second sight. On February 23, 1945, 98 percent of the city center was destroyed by an Allied air raid within just 20 minutes. In the decades that followed, numerous architects tried their hand at the city and built revolutionary buildings at the time. The city is therefore an open-air museum for architecture from the 1950s to the 70s.

Green Gold

Sedanplatz Pforzheim
Aerial view of Sedanplatz, Image: Markus Born Fotodesign

The city of three rivers has much more to offer: Pforzheim is one of the greenest cities in Germany with 83.5 percent green space. Over 100 kilometres of hiking trails invite you to enjoy nature within the city area. The hiking trails lead past Roman walls, mystical castle ruins and the three rivers Enz, Nagold and Würm. Even the oldest long-distance hiking trails in the Black Forest, West, East and Middle Path, start at the city’s Golden Gate and lead to Basel.

Bicycle lovers will also get their money’s worth here: no less than eight long-distance cycle paths crisscross the city area, such as the popular Enztal Cycle Path, the Nagold Valley Cycle Path or the Black Forest Panorama Cycle Path.

The animal highlight of Pforzheim is the wildlife park. Admission is free, and some animals can even be fed by the guests. The forest climbing garden provides fun at high altitudes.

The City of Gold

Snake Bracelet Jewellery Museum Pforzheim
This snake bracelet from the pinnacle of Greek-Hellenistic jewellery art is one of the exhibits in the Pforzheim Jewellery Museum, Image: Schmuckmuseum/Günther Meyer

From the 18th century onwards, girls and boys from the local orphanage received training in the production of jewellery. The foundation stone for the jewellery and watch industry was laid. In its heyday, 90 percent of German jewellery was produced in the gold city. Today, the figure is still 75 percent.

The Jewellery Museum in the Reuchlinhaus is a globally unique museum on the history of jewellery. Around 2,000 exhibits show jewellery art from five millennia, from antiquity to the present day.

In the Technical Museum , the history of the traditional industries comes to life. Many work steps will be demonstrated on historic machines, and there will also be insights into the cultural context of the jewelry and watch industry on site.

In the Schütt gemstone exhibition , guests can marvel at the fascinating world of gemstones and crystals and discover a lot of interesting facts.

In Europe’s largest jewellery and watch house, the Schmuckwelten, jewellery can be admired and purchased. Right next door is the award-winning permanent exhibition “Gold.Money.Society”, which reveals mysteries about gold.

Gasometer Pforzheim

With the gigantic 360° panorama “GREAT BARRIER REEF – Coral Reef Wonderland” by artist Yadegar Asisi, a highlight for the whole family can be seen in the Gasometer. The panorama makes the beauty and the enormous biodiversity of the famous coral reef tangible. From the 15-metre-high visitor tower, you have a breathtaking view of the panorama, which will be on display until at least mid-2021. Information about a possible new panorama can be found on the homepage www.gasometer-pforzheim.de.

Pforzheim is diversity

Eleven museums show exciting facts from the Roman era, about the city’s most famous son, Johannis Reuchlin, or from the GDR. In the city museum there is even a replica of the first automobile with which Bertha Benz drove from Mannheim to her hometown of Pforzheim in 1888 and laid the foundation for the success story of the car. The Pforzheim Theatre offers a three-genre range of music, drama and dance. And the city’s varied gastronomy offers delights from all over the world, for example from Korea, Venezuela, India, but also the delicious Maultauschen and Spätzle can be found here.

By the way, Pforzheim is a perfect destination, especially for groups. City and themed tours, whether digital or on-site, allow you to discover the city in a relaxed way. The team at the tourist information office on the Schlossberg (tourist-info@ws-pforzheim.de; https://www.stadt-land-enz.de, 07231 39 3700).

with the kind support of the city of Pforzheim

Last minute on holiday: What you should pay attention to

PatrickJullien
-
0
Last minute on holiday: What you should pay attention to

Grey skies, rain and a gloomy mood: Cold and uncomfortable weather can drag down the mood quite a bit. Of course, the distance beckons with many hours of sunshine and great places. Early bookers can still enjoy the long anticipation of their upcoming holiday, while last-minute travellers would like to pack their bags immediately.

The German Travel Association defines last-minute holidays as trips that are taken within the next two weeks. However, those who want to book cheap last minute trips now should consider a few things in order to really be able to make the desired bargain.

Extensive research

Comparisons of different offers show whether the last-minute trip is really a bargain. Some offers are not as cheap as they seem at first glance.

For example, offers for the same trip from different tour operators can be compared on the websites of travel agencies. Price differences can thus be detected very quickly.

Continuous price monitoring

With regard to price comparisons, it is also worthwhile to observe the prices every day, because there is a great deal of price dynamics in the travel sector.

In particular, the prices of flights can differ greatly from one day to another. The development should therefore be observed for a few days.

The included services

In Germany , catalogue prices are subject to an obligation to indicate prices. Bait offers, which are ultimately much more expensive, are therefore not permitted.

However, if last-minute trips are quoted at significantly lower prices than originally stated in the catalogue, the included services may have changed. The price can be lower, for example, because no airport transfer or full board is included.

The framework conditions

Turkey Beach
Fantastic views – not uncommon in Turkey – a popular last-minute destination, Image: Denis Belitsky / shutterstock

The general conditions can also be less favourable for last-minute trips. For example, it becomes more difficult to secure the trip.

Holidays that are booked at short notice often do not offer the possibility of free cancellation. The travel price is therefore usually due at 100 percent if the trip is cancelled a few days before the actual date. In addition, in many cases it is not possible to take out travel cancellation insurance. Nevertheless, some insurance companies offer special last-minute rates. However, these are hardly attractive in terms of price.

If the trip is to be started with children, families who are planning a last-minute holiday will also have to pay higher prices – they are dependent on holiday periods in which the prices are generally increased by the tour operators. Children’s discounts are also rather rare for last-minute trips.

Be flexible

Flexibility is another important factor in making the last-minute holiday a real pleasure. Families with children often do not have this flexibility, as they need longer preparation for the upcoming trip. Couples and singles, on the other hand, can quickly find a suitable holiday destination and spontaneously pack their bags.

The offers are often lower in price if inconvenient flight times or rather unpopular destinations are chosen. Good prices can be used, for example, especially when flights depart very early in the morning or late in the evening.

The general attitude also falls under the criterion of flexibility. If the main aim is to save money by booking a last-minute trip, there should be no disappointment if no suitable offer can be found. In some cases, it is better to wait a little longer and go back to looking for a spontaneous holiday at another suitable time.

 

1...183184185...202Page 184 of 202