All about travel

Holidays in the Pyrenees

France
Spain

PatrickJullien

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11. April 2021

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.

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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.

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

Germany

PatrickJullien

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6. April 2021

0

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.

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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

Cuba

PatrickJullien

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3. April 2021

0

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.

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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

All about travel

PatrickJullien

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31. March 2021

0

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.

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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

Have the airline confirm the reason for the delay in writing
Collect evidence of the flight delay (e.g. food vouchers issued)
If your flight is delayed by more than two hours, claim your right to utilities
Check your claim for compensation in the event of a flight delay

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

Turkey

PatrickJullien

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27. March 2021

0

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:

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1. The Turkish Riviera

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!

Unkategorisiert

PatrickJullien

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26. March 2021

0

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

Croatia

PatrickJullien

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18. March 2021

0

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.

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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.

Manchester: Working-class city with a lot of heart

England

PatrickJullien

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17. March 2021

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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.

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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 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, 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

Portugal

PatrickJullien

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15. March 2021

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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.

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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

Netherlands

PatrickJullien

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12. March 2021

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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.

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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.