All about travel

Belfast – Sights in Northern Ireland’s capital

PatrickJullien

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18. August 2020

Belfast – Sights in Northern Ireland’s capital

As diverse as the city itself, so diverse are its sights. Belfast is steeped in more history than almost any other city in the north of Ireland. Numerous museums and monuments remind us of stormy times that divided an entire nation. Just as buildings, paintings and sculptures remind us of peace and tolerance. Especially in recent years, Belfast has established itself as an exciting and interesting travel destination. We have summarised here what makes the city special and which sights should not be missing on a holiday.

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Belfast Titanic Experience

In March 2012, the monument to what was once the largest and probably most famous passenger ship in the world opened in Belfast. Even from the outside, the building is worth seeing, because with its shiny aluminum exterior façade, it is strongly reminiscent of the fateful iceberg that sank the Titantic in 1912. The Titanic originated in Belfast. In memory of the construction project and the dramatic event, visitors can travel through that time on a total of six floors. Exhibits, replicas and artifacts are waiting here.

St. George’s Market

It is probably the oldest attraction in Belfast: St. George’s Market is popular with both travellers and locals. While the Victorian building still looks a bit inconspicuous from the outside, there is a lot of hustle and bustle inside. Fresh fruit, Irish delicacies, delicious street food and typical Irish music await. While the artists provide the right atmosphere, around 250 market stalls entice with their offers. A visit to this market is a must on a holiday in Belfast.

The Crown Liquor Saloon

Crown Liquor Saloon, Belfast — Crown Liquor Saloon, Image: Min Jing / shutterstock

It is probably the most famous and oldest pub in Northern Ireland: The Crown Liquor Saloon. The first owner had the entire pub decorated with gas lamps, Corinthian columns and wood panelling by artists from Italy . The seating areas are guarded by imposing griffins and lions. In addition, there are fabrics made of brocade with lilies and feather patterns. Overall: it is probably one of the most beautiful pubs in the world, which should definitely be visited for a Guinness when visiting Belfast. Of course, the appropriate atmospheric music is also regularly available here.

Crumlin Road Goal

The Crumlin Road Goal is also one of the most popular sights in Belfast and should not be missing from the list when visiting. Insurgents, criminals, fighters for freedom and feminists. They have all been locked up in prison in the north of Ireland. During this time, even children were behind bars here. Innocent people also often died here by the gallows, although some of them were demonstrably innocent. Even today, their souls are said to haunt the old walls. During the day, visitors can visit the house on their own, and in the evening there are special horror tours in search of the restless poltergeists.

Belfast City Hall

Thanks to the reigning Queen Victoria, Belfast was recognised as a city in 1888. It was not until 20 years later that the plans for a town hall were implemented, which today separates the industrial area from the business district. With its gigantic dome and green towers, City Hall is an impressive building. Sculptures and marble adorn the interiors and halls. The gardens around the building land in summer with the large gardens to linger in. Belfast City Hall is equipped with modern lighting technology. On special occasions, the building shines in a breathtaking backdrop of light.

Ulster Museum and Grand Opera House

The Ulster Museum could be described as a mixture of art, history and naturopathy. Today, it is one of the most visited sights in the city. One million objects are waiting for visitors here. From the mummy to exciting art collections to dinosaur replicas. So you certainly won’t get bored in this museum.

On Great Victoria Street, right in the middle of the city centre, is the Irish Grand Opera House. The building dates back to 1895 and brought an oriental flair to the city at the time. In the following years, the house was renovated several times. It now offers the perfect backdrop for opera, dance, theatre, musicals and comedy.

St. Anne’s Cathedral and Botanic Gardens

Where an old church once stood until the end of the 19th century, St. Anne’s Cathedral now stands. This was built from 1899 and it took a whole 80 years until the imposing work was completed. Visitors can visit the fair here or simply admire the magnificent interior. Impressive paintings and artifacts are also at home here. As a sign of hope, the high church tower is illuminated every night, which is a nice photo opportunity for holidaymakers.

Another must-see stop for holidaymakers in the Northern Irish city is the botanical garden. Here you will find relaxation and peace. The garden is located right next to the University of Belfast and offers a welcome change from the hustle and bustle of the city on over 100,000 square metres. Tropical greenhouses, roses, orchids, a palm house and sculptures await you here. The piece of green in the green city is particularly suitable for a cosy picnic.

Das Belfast Castle

The magnificent Belfast Castle at the bottom of Cave Hill is the last castle in Belfast. It was built in the heart of the city in the 12th century, but a building made of wood and stones replaced it 400 years later. The reason for this was a fire, which prompted the planners to have the castle rebuilt on the outskirts of the city. The castle can be visited after a short drive out of the city center. Not only a magnificent view of Belfast, but also historic interiors and a cozy park invite you to linger. Afterwards you can visit Cave Hill.

Sóller – Valley of Gold

PatrickJullien

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18. August 2020

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In the “Valley of Gold” lies the small town of Sóller in the northwest on the island of Mallorca. With its approximately 13,000 inhabitants on an area of about 43km², this place is certainly not one of the largest, but it is difficult to surpass in beauty.

Extensive orange plantations round off the natural look of Sóller and provide a colourful change from the lush greenery of the small town. You might think that the name “Valley of Gold” is due to the oranges, but after a short research it was clear that liquid gold was extracted from the olive groves at that time, which can only be seen sporadically today.

After this short historical digression, we turn our full attention back to the sights of the small town idyll.

What to see in Sóller

Sóller is located 3 kilometres inland from the coast, but with the district of Port de Sóller it offers direct access to the Mediterranean Sea. The small harbour town offers a beautiful view of the water and shines in full splendour, especially at dusk. The numerous restaurants and bars invite you to a cozy dinner with friends and offer a fantastic view of the setting sun off Mallorca’s coasts.

Tram, Sóller — Old tram in Sóller, Image: Karol Kozlowski / shutterstock

In the centre of Sóller, culture fans will get their money’s worth. The church of Sant Bartomeu is located in the heart of the city, in the Plaza Constitutión, where life also takes place. Even from the outside, Sant Bartomeu impresses with extraordinary architecture and imposing details. But the interior of the church also has a lot of attention to detail and is definitely worth a tour. There is also a beautiful permanent exhibition in the Plaza Constitutión, where not only local artists are exhibited, but also heavyweights such as Kandinsky or Picasso. You can also visit the Balearic Museum of Natural Sciences or enjoy the flora and fauna of the Jordí Botànic, a garden with many plant species just a few minutes’ walk from the city centre towards the harbour.

Shopping & Dining in Sóller

Church of Sant Bortomeu, Soller — The church of Sant Bortomeu, Image: schoppino / shutterstock

But if you prefer to come to Sóller for shopping or a leisurely meal with friends, you will not be disappointed. Around the Plaza Constitutión there are lots of bars and restaurants. Cute cafés invite you to relax in a cozy atmosphere. Of course, the range of designer shops here is not as large as on Palma, for example, but you should plan your day trip on a Saturday. Saturday is market day in Sóller. The square is teeming with locals and tourists interested in shopping. Retailers offer all kinds of goods, such as sought-after designer fashion. Hand-painted furniture or self-made textiles can be found here in abundance. A perfect souvenir and memento for home.

Athletes or hobby hikers can also let off steam here. The GR221 long-distance hiking trail or dry stone route leads through the town and the harbour and thus offers a perfect alternative to culture and the hustle and bustle of Sóller for beginners as well as experienced hikers or mountain bikers. Guided hikes can also be booked for little money.

There are not many hotels in the beautiful small town, but there are enough. There, however, the selection is surprisingly large. Both small holiday apartments in country house style and modern, stylish apartments are part of Sóller’s repertoire.

As an insider tip, you should definitely visit the ice cream restaurant Sa Fábrica de Gelats . There you will find delicious ice cream with many different, extraordinary flavors. In general, you can rely on the regional products here. Due to the many orange plantations, it is obvious that there is also excellent orange juice and all kinds of products of the delicious fruit. So support the regional entrepreneurs and take a jar of jam home with you.

In conclusion, Sóller can only be recommended. Whether for a longer period of time or for a day trip on your next Mallorca holiday. This small but fine town offers everything your travel heart desires and will not disappoint you.

Galicia – Journey to another Spain

Europe
Spain

PatrickJullien

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17. August 2020

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The region of Galicia, in the northwest of the Iberian Peninsula, belongs to Spain, but it is very different. Instead of fiesta, paella and flamenco, the region captivates with its naturalness: rough coasts, ancient villages and wide forests characterize the picture. The few large cities are a lively contrast. Galicia is best known as the destination of the Camino de Santiago. But the area also offers picturesque landscapes and places steeped in history in many other places.

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Sea and originality

Galicia is characterized by the sea. The approximately 1,500-kilometre-long coastline offers an interesting mix of steep cliffs and long sandy beaches. A special feature are the many fjord-like bays, which are called Rías here. The Rías Baixas in the south invite you to swim with shallow water, while the northern Rías Altas impress with their high rock walls. There are numerous small fishing villages along the entire coast. Fishing and mussel farming still serve as a livelihood for many people here. Countless wooden rafts on which the mussels grow bear witness to this.

The interior of the country also shows itself originally. In the small villages, the stone houses covered with slate stand out. They often have a grain or corn store, the Hórreo, as an outbuilding. Away from the villages, extensive forest stands dominate the landscape. In the east of Galicia, the high mountains of the Cordillera Cantábrica represent the natural border with the rest of Spain.

The climate and cuisine are as varied as the landscape. Due to its location on the Atlantic Ocean, there is a lot of rain, wind and fog. This is reminiscent of other coastal regions of Western Europe such as Brittany. The cuisine is dominated by fish and seafood, which is unparalleled in freshness and variety. Mussel lovers in particular will get their money’s worth. Mussels, scallops, razor clams, barnacles, oysters – here you will find everything your heart desires. The fields also contribute to the cuisine. Galicians are proud of their regional potatoes, corn and cheese. An insider tip is the popular regional white wine Albariño.

By the way, many people in the autonomous region still speak Galician in everyday life. But the vast majority of locals can also communicate well in Spanish or other languages.

Galicia: Lively cities with a long history

Santiago de COmpostela, Galicia — The Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela, Image: artem evdokimov / shutterstock

The cities of Galicia form a counterpoint to the otherwise rather rural character. There you will find imposing cathedrals, lively promenades and renowned universities.

The Galician capital Santiago de Compostela is the terminus of the popular Way of St. James. There the pilgrims pick up their pilgrimage certificate in the cathedral. The church, like the lively old town, is a World Heritage Site. The port city of A Coruña is also buzzing with life. The extensive beach promenades are excellent for strolling. The city’s landmark, the Tower of Hercules, dates back to Roman times and is the oldest lighthouse in the world still in operation.

Another Roman building is the more than two-kilometre-long city wall in Lugo. Its gates and towers fit impressively into today’s cityscape. The city of Ourense was also founded by the Romans. They already used the hot springs that still bubble up from the ground all over the area today. Some of the thermal springs are located in the Park As Burgas in the center of the city.

Pontevedra, Galicia — The picturesque village of Potevedra, Image: José Carlos Castro Antelo / shutterstock

One of the most beautiful Spanish cities is Pontevedra. The town is picturesquely situated on the banks of the Ría de Pontevedra. The historic town houses and arcades as well as the many cosy squares and narrow streets transport the visitor to another time. Nearby is Vigo, the largest city and economic center of Galicia. The old fishermen’s quarter of O Berbés and the fortress of O Castro are worth seeing. Those who climb the hilltop site will be rewarded with beautiful views of the city and the Ría de Vigo.

Dream beaches and Celtic villages

Away from the cities, there are countless places in Galicia that are worth a visit. For example, off the coast of Vigo lies the enchanting archipelago of Illas Cíes. These uninhabited islands were called “islands of the gods” by the Romans. Seabirds, dolphins and whales cavort there. The more than one kilometre long dream beach Praia de Rodas attracts with white powder sand. If you like it a little more sporty, you can admire the natural paradise on one of the marked hiking trails. As the number of visitors to the islands is limited, it is advisable to obtain permission for access well in advance.

Cape Fisterra, Galicia — Cape Fisterra, Image: Noradoa / shutterstock

At Cape Fisterra and the nearby beach of Langosteira, the Atlantic Ocean shows its rough side. The stretch of coast is called Costa da Morte (Coast of Death) because many ships used to crash between storms and cliffs there. Fisterra is considered the unofficial end of the Way of St. James. Many pilgrims still walk the approximately 100 kilometers from Santiago de Compostela to the Cape. With this section and the official part, the Camino de Santiago passes through Galicia for a total of a good 250 kilometres. If you want to avoid the crowd of pilgrims, you will find many alternatives. The various side routes of the Camino de Santiago are much quieter and just as interesting. The O Camiño dos Faros hiking trail along the coast or a tour through the Ribeira Sacra wine-growing region also offer beautiful views.

In many places, Galicia shows its millennia-old history. The oldest testimonies are the dolmen stone tombs from prehistoric times, which are scattered throughout the region. The foundation walls of the old Castro villages, such as the well-preserved complexes in A Guarda and Castro de Rei, date from the settlement by the Celts. The stone village of O Cebreiro, located on a ridge at the beginning of the Galician Way of St. James, is also impressive. This town of only 100 inhabitants exudes a magical atmosphere with its Celtic huts (pallozas) and the pre-Romanesque church. This also applies to the extensive Oseira monastery complex in the centre of Galicia. It combines architectural styles from Romanesque to Baroque and is known as the Galician El Escorial because of its size.

Diverse experiences for all tastes

Hiking along famous paths or off the beaten track, relaxing on deserted beaches, excursions into an ancient history and lively cities – Galicia convinces with incredible diversity. The region between the sea and the mountains offers breathtaking nature and testimonies of the past at every turn. Excellent seafood cuisine and down-to-earth people make the experience perfect. So the trip to Spain’s green northwest will be remembered positively for a long time.

Jerusalem – thrice holy city

Asia
Isreal

PatrickJullien

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15. August 2020

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Jerusalem is not only a tourist destination: it is a pilgrimage destination and place of pilgrimage, the center of three world religions. Nowhere else do Judaism, Christianity and Islam live so close together, nowhere else is history and religion so palpable as in Jerusalem.

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Jewish Jerusalem

Jerusalem is the cultural and religious center of Israel and Judaism. The area around the city was already inhabited 6000 years ago, making Jerusalem one of the oldest cities in the world. Around 1000 BC, the biblical kings David and Solomon ruled over the city. Later it was occupied by the Romans. Jesus visited Jerusalem and was sentenced to death there. In the seventh century AD, Muslim forces conquered the city and built some of Islam’s most important mosques.

Since the June War of 1967 , Jerusalem has been inhabited mainly by Jews, but Christians and Muslims – and their buildings – are also still represented.

Western Wall Jerusalem — The Western Wall, Image: JekLi / shutterstock

The most famous sight of Jewish Jerusalem is certainly the Western Wall, also known as the Western Wall. It was part of the Jerusalm Temple, which was built about 2500 years ago. Thousands of Jews come here every day to pray. Members of other religions can also walk through the sanctuary without any problems, which is why it has also become a popular tourist destination.

Not far from the Western Wall is the Temple Mount. It is the most important holy place of Judaism, and the third holiest place of Islam. The Jerusalem Temple used to stand here. In the seventh century, the Islamic Dome of the Rock was built, which is the oldest place of worship in Islam. It is richly decorated; the golden dome is particularly impressive. Attention: Access to the Dome of the Rock has only been allowed to Muslims for several years. Members of all other religions are denied access.

Temple Mount Jerusalem — Panoramic view of the Christians, the Jewish and Muslim sacred places of Jerusalem, Image: Kyrylo Glivin / shutterstock

By the way, all these sights are located in the old town – so a visit is almost mandatory! The streets and alleys of this old part of the city surprise at every corner with interesting buildings and historical remains. That’s why it’s a good idea to just walk around, get lost in the old town and its history. By the way, most of the sights can only be reached on foot. The old town is very small – it measures only 0.9 km².

Christian Jerusalem

Mar Elias Monastery, Image: Alon Adika / shutterstock

The monastery of Mar Elias was founded in the 6th century. Its Greek Orthodox architecture is just as fascinating as the view that offers itself over the whole of Jerusalem.
Another center of Christian Jerusalem, indeed of Christianity in general, is the Church of the Holy Sepulchre. It stands where, according to tradition, Jesus was buried. The church is almost 1700 years old, and is visited by Christians from all over the world and of all denominations.

On Palm Sunday, thousands of believers gather to celebrate the ascension of Jesus. In the New Testament Gospels, the Mount of Olives is given as the place where Christ was taken up into heaven. The hill, which is also located in the Old City of Jerusalem, is also sacred to Muslims and Jews: both religions believe that the Last Judgment will be held there.

Muslim Jerusalem

Al-Aqsa Mosque in Jerusalem, Image: Kyrylo Glivin / shutterstock

In addition to the aforementioned Dome of the Rock, Jerusalem is home to another important building of Islam: the al-Aqsa Mosque. It is one of the oldest mosques in the world. It was already mentioned in the Koran as a “distant place of worship”, but was not built until a hundred years later. Muslims believe that the Prophet Muhammad ascended to heaven there. The mosque is also located in the old town.

Jerusalem Today

Modernity has long since arrived, but Jerusalem is timeless. In the midst of the trendy cafés and tourist restaurants are ancient buildings, minarts and church towers adorn the city as well as multi-storey office buildings and television antennas. Backpackers and travelers mingle with believers, American fast food restaurants line up with traditional restaurants. The almost one million inhabitants and the countless tourists who find their way to Jerusalem every day make the city an extremely lively and lively place.

Since Israel is very small in area, there are several day trips from Jerusalem – e.g. to Tel Aviv. The city by the sea is considered the economic and social center of Israel, and is characterized by its beautiful beaches and first-class bars. From Jerusalem to Tel Aviv it is only an hour by car! The biblical cities of Bethlehem and Nazareth are also very easy to reach – Bethlehem is only nine kilometers from Jerusalem.

While there can sometimes be conflicts between the three religions, they live peacefully together in everyday life – if not always with each other, then at least next to each other. This multi-religious climate gives Jerusalem its very own charm, which can only be experienced so intensively in the “holy city”.

So if you want to get to know Israel, if you want to get to the source of the three Abrahamic religions, you will find no better place than Israel. The holy city makes history and religion palpable on every street corner. An experience that will remain unforgettable!

Holidays in Kenya – paradise in East Africa

Africa
Kenya

PatrickJullien

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9. August 2020

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Holidays in Kenya – paradise in East Africa

This article is a paid ad Hakuna Matata – Everything is fine. The famous saying from the movie “The Lion King” is the motto of life in Kenya. Everything is a little more relaxed there and without the pressure and hectic pace that we know all too well from Germany . But that’s not the only thing that makes Kenya a true holiday paradise in East Africa. In the endless savannahs of the country you can meet the Big 5 – elephant, rhino, buffalo, lion and leopard. And on the endless white sandy beaches of the Indian Ocean, you completely forget all the worries and stress from Germany.

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The best travel destinations in Kenya

The majority of tourists who come to Kenya every year are of course looking forward to a safari. And quite rightly so. Because having seen lions, elephants and rhinos up close once in your life is an experience you won’t forget in a hurry. In Kenya, you can meet the wild animals in untouched nature today in the national parks. The most famous park is Maasai Mara, which borders directly on the Serengeti. Every year, you can see a huge migration of wild animals as they cross the Mara River in search of better grazing grounds. Another, completely different highlight of the country is the coastal city of Mombasa directly on the Indian Ocean. Strongly influenced by the Swahili culture, the coastal region of Kenya is very different from the rest of the country. Endless white sandy beaches invite you to take walks along the turquoise sea. Of course, you can also swim or even dive wonderfully in the lukewarm ocean. Afterwards, the delicious, freshly caught seafood found in the city’s excellent restaurants is the perfect way to end a wonderful day.

If you don’t want it to go so far away: Alternatives within Europe

But maybe you don’t want to travel to another continent this year after all. We understand this and have therefore provided some great alternatives to a holiday in Kenya.

Holidays in Denmark

Beach Denmark — Relaxing in peace on Denmark’sbeaches, Image: Ioana Catalina E/shutterstock

A holiday home holiday on Denmark’s Baltic or North Sea coast is a real classic. And quite rightly so. After all, a holiday in a holiday home in Denmark promises to combine the best of two worlds at once. Firstly, in the holiday home you can enjoy the comfort of your own home without being disturbed by other guests. In addition, you will have the holiday paradise of Denmark right on your doorstep. Long sandy beaches, a pleasantly mild climate and the very friendly hosts make a holiday there unforgettable.

Holidays in London

As one of the oldest capitals in Europe, London is still one of the cultural centres of the continent. First-class museums, galleries and historical sights are lined up close together in London. It is also home to some of the best restaurants in the world. The perfect destination for a gourmet holiday full of cultural highlights.

Baku – Between History and Modernity

PatrickJullien

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9. August 2020

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Baku, the capital of Azerbaijan, is located on the western coast of the Caspian Sea. The city is home to several universities, research institutes and museums. It is also considered an important economic and cultural centre.

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Baku and the trade in oil

Due to its favorable location, the history of the city is significant. It was an important transport hub early on, and in the early modern period, Baku is mentioned as a centre of trade.

The natural oil deposits of the area are also significant. The oil was already used before the birth of Christ. Later also to illuminate the temples of the Zoroastrians. Marco Polo reported on the oil trade as early as the 13th century. Baku even delivered its raw material to India with caravans.

The first mechanical oil drilling in 1846 was followed by many more. Until the beginning of the 20th century, half of the world’s oil came from Baku. This boom led to a huge increase in the city’s population and Baku’s growth exceeded that of Paris, London and New York.

Sights in and around Baku

The Maiden’s Tower – Landmarks and Riddles

Maiden's Tower Baku — Maiden’s Tower in Baku, Image: Dmitry Erokhin / shutterstock

The almost 30-meter-high tower on the coast of the Caspian Sea belongs to the old town of Baku and is therefore also part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site.

It was probably part of the eastern fortification, which no longer exists.

Neither the time nor the purpose of the construction could be clearly determined so far. The tower dates back to the 11th century at the latest, but could also have its beginnings as early as the 5th century.

The construction of the tower is extremely unusual. Originally, its interior consisted of a hollow cylinder, but in the 60s several mezzanines were added. The clay tubes, which are embedded in the walls, also puzzle the researchers and give rise to various theories about their purpose. So it is possible that the tower was intended as a fire tower for the worship of the gods. But even on the outside, the otherness of the building becomes apparent. Today it serves as a museum and vantage point, from which you can see all the way into the bay, because the waves of the lake, which once broke directly under the tower, were pushed further out by artificial embankments.

The Palace of the Shirvanshahs – Pearl of Baku

Icheri Sheher, Baku’s Old Town, Image: Zatevahins / shutterstock

As the name suggests, the palace was built in the 15th century by the Muslim dynasty of the Shirvanshahs. The building complex is located on the hill of the İçəri Şəhər district.

In 1411, the construction of the residential palace began, making it the oldest building in the palace. In addition to it, the mosque, the mausoleum of Seyid Yahya Bakuviund, funerary vaults and other architectural structures are also part of the complex. UNESCO called the place “one of the pearls of Azerbaijani architecture”.

In addition to the architecture, there are also some museums and exhibitions to marvel at today.

Ateshgah of Baku – Temple of Fire

Ateshgah from Baku — Ateshgah, the fire temple of Baku, Image: Robert Nawrocki / shutterstock

The fire temple of Baku was built in the 17. and 18th century as a monastery complex. However, its origins date back to antiquity. Until late In the 19th century, Hindu and Zoroastrian rituals were performed there. It was only abandoned with the increased oil production in the vicinity because the company extinguished the sacred fire caused by natural gas. In 1925, the temple was finally completely abandoned.

Since 1975, the restored complex has been an open-air museum and with the help of gas pipes, an imitation of the sacred fire is once again created.

Flame Towers – Flames in the middle of the city

Flame Towers, Baku — The Flame Towers, Image: ETIBARNAME / shutterstock

In addition to its rich history, Baku is also a stunningly modern city. The Flame Towers are a visible testimony to this. The three towers were built between 2007 and 2013. The highest of them reaches a height of 181.7 meters.
At night, the viewer is offered a special spectacle, because in the darkness the towers seem to come to life. Due to their lighting, they actually look like flickering flames.

The buildings contain offices, apartments, shops and hotels. In addition, the observation deck is open to everyone and allows a stunning view over the entire city to the Caspian Sea.

Heydər Əliyev Merkezi – Signs of Modernity

Heydar Aliyev Center, Baku — Heydar Aliyev Cultural Center, Image: Elnur / shutterstock

Another sign of modernity is the Heydər Əliyev Merkezi (Heydar Aliyev Center). The complex offers around 100,000 m² of space for the National Museum, various exhibition, concert and conference halls and a library.

The cultural centre was designed by the Iraqi-British architect Zaha Hadid. Construction lasted from 2007 to 2012. Two years later, the building received the Design of the Year award from the Design Museum London .

With its innovative, flowing form, the building blends beautifully into the surrounding park and almost creates a sculptural impression.

Yanar Dağ – The Burning Mountain

An unforgettable natural phenomenon is the fire, which has been burning not far from Baku since ancient times. It is caused by the natural gas in the soil. Some of the flames shoot out of the 10-meter-long crack up to three meters high into the sky. This natural earth fire is one of the few that can still be admired in the world today and Marco Polo already reported on this wonder of nature. The flames are particularly impressive in the dark and have already served as a source of inspiration for many.

Summer holidays on Denmark’s largest island, Zealand

PatrickJullien

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8. August 2020

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Summer holidays on Denmark’s largest island, Zealand

Holidaymakers who tick similarly to me, in that they want to spend their holidays in the same place not only for relaxation, will find an ideal holiday area on the Danish island of Zealand. The approximately 7,000 km² island, which could also be called the “Baltic Sea country”, offers its visitors the advantage of being able to arrange their holiday stay according to individual preferences and needs. I would be happy to share with you some suggestions derived from my previous stays in a holiday home on Zealand to make your holiday more varied.

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Family holidays on the beaches of South Zealand

Karrebaeksminde, Zealand — Karrebaeksminde, Image: Gestur Gislason / shutterstock

It is up to you whether you want to reach Zealand by car ferry from Rostock or the island of Fehmarn or choose to get there by land via Flensburg and the bridge over the Great Belt. Since the island has a large number of holiday homes, you also have the option of choosing the holiday accommodation according to your budget and requirements.

South Zealand has proven to be an ideal holiday destination for me, which offers ideal conditions for a family with children. For example, the small island of Enö, which can be reached via a bascule bridge, offers wide sandy beaches that flow into shallow water, especially off Karrebaeksminde, where they form a particularly child-friendly surface. In the evenings, the sunsets offer an additional romantic experience. My family felt quite comfortable on the beaches of Faxe Bay in the eastern area of Zealand.

White sandy beaches run flat into the clear water in a child-friendly way, a bathing bridge inspires the older semesters and amber and smaller fossils trigger unimagined collecting passions. If your holiday takes you to the north coast of Zealand, some beaches on the Danish Riviera, such as the beach off Ebbelökke, which is equipped with children’s waterholes, or the neighbouring, never crowded beach of Sonnerup, are ideal for a few relaxing hours with the family.

Places to visit on Zealand

Frederiksborg Castle, Hilleröd, Zealand — Frederiksborg Castle in Hilleröd, Image: Kiev.Victor / shutterstock

It is not without reason that Zealand is called the island of castles and manor houses. While Copenhagen or Roskilde are widely known as attractive cities, places such as the medieval port city of Köge on the east coast of Zealand, Lejre near Roskilde or Hilleröd in the northeast of the island are among the insider tips of the excursion destinations. Köge convinces with a historic town centre, which is formed, among other things, by half-timbered houses from the 17th century and the Nicolaikirche from the 14th century. A few kilometres south of the village, the picturesquely situated Vallö Castle invites you to visit. Lejre offers interesting insights into the settlement history of the Vikings and has two worthwhile sights in store with the Land of Legends leisure centre and the Rococo castle of Ledreborg. Hilleröd is best known for its massive Renaissance Frederiksborg Castle, where the Danish National History Museum is an absolute must for museum lovers.

A day at Dyrehavsbakken Amusement Park

Although the Dyrehavsbakken had not been part of the program of my vacation trip to the island of Zealand, my youngest family member was able to convince me of the opposite. So we went to this oldest amusement park in the world, located north of Copenhagen , and in the end we didn’t regret this decision. Equipped with the necessary change – the individual rides charge individual prices – we passed the bust of the juggler Professor Tribini, who worked successfully here for 30 years, and plunged into the fun. The ride on one of the oldest wooden roller coasters in Europe and a visit to the 5D adventure cinema were among the fun highlights, while we were spoiled with culinary delights in one of the park restaurants.

A trip to Jammerland Bay

A holiday on Zealand allows you to get to places that have scenic, cultural or culinary highlights to offer away from the tourist centres in a relatively short distance. For example, I was thrilled by the port city of Kalundborg, which is located in the northern part of the Great Belt and on the northern shore of Jammerland Bay. Here it is worth visiting the brick building of the Frauenkirche, which dates back to the Middle Ages with five towers, and a detour to the tip of the Rösnaes peninsula.

South of Kalundborg and Jammerland Bay, which by the way has a very nice riverside hiking trail, lies the small peninsula of Reersö. With a little luck, you can discover one of the rare tailless cats that live here and take a little journey through time through the historic centre of the town of Reersö. And don’t forget to crown your trip with a visit to the thatched, more than 300-year-old Reersö Kro restaurant, which offers fried eel with white potatoes as a specialty.

Hike along the cliffs of Zealand

Hojerup Church, Stevns Klint — The collapsed Hojerup Church at Stevn Klints Bridge, Image: kimson / shutterstock

It is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site, the cliffs known as Stevns Klint in the southeast of Zealand. The coastal section, which consists of steep chalk cliffs and is up to 40 metres high, rises from the sea for about 15 kilometres. You can hike it on a kind of trail, which, however, requires sure-footed shoes. At the Stevns lighthouse, the highest point of the cliff, you can expect an inspiring view. In addition to Højerup Church, built in the 13th century, you can discover a wide variety of visible and underground buildings from the Cold War era. Next to the church, a path leads down to the beach of the cliff coast. In the visitor centre, which was built in a chalk quarry, you can take an informative break accompanied by a lot of information.

Brisbane: The pearl on Australia’s east coast

Australia

PatrickJullien

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31. July 2020

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Brisbane: The pearl on Australia’s east coast

It took less than 150 years from the founding of a lonely penal colony on the Brisbane River to the present day: Brisbane is a modern city that is considered a tourist hotspot in Australia because of its fantastically beautiful, sunlit location by the sea and the numerous holiday paradises all around.

What’s more, the entire eastern part of Australia is a popular hub for visitors from all over the world. First and foremost, it is the popular states of Queensland and New South Wales that make up Australia’s east. Quite the opposite to the Australian “Wild West”, which is so sparsely populated that a journey from one place to another can sometimes take day trips. On the east coast, on the other hand, things are much livelier – and one attraction follows the other.

There are also some climatic differences to other parts of the country: For example, the pronounced subtropical climate in Australia’s east ensures very pleasant temperatures – all year round. Mountain ranges rise up to 2,200 meters in height.
So: Full marks for Brisbane! While the cosmopolitan city of Sydney scores with its wealth of sights, visitors to Brisbane are also attracted to cultural highlights en masse.

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Brisbane – Australia’s third largest city

Brisbane City Hall, Image: SchnepfDesign / shutterstock

Brisbane, with its approximately 2.2 million inhabitants, is the capital of the particularly popular state of Queensland. Brisbane became popular due to its comprehensive range of cultural attractions: Especially as a concert lover or theater lover, you will appreciate the rich offers of Brisbane’s cultural sites.

As the third largest city behind the metropolises of Sydney and Melbourne , Brisbane is a particularly popular destination for tourists from all parts of the world. Brisbane’s internationality is just as characteristic as the cityscape, which is characterized by many subcultures. In addition, a strong, important cultural scene has been established, which is a magnet for artists from all parts of the world.

Brisbane’s nightlife is also lively and colourful. CBD, Brisbane’s Central Business District, is located on a peninsula in a bend of the Brisbane River. The city center is quite manageable in terms of area with only about 2.2 square kilometers, but the oversupply of sightseeing highlights and shopping offers fascinates all visitors so much that the individual time budget quickly becomes insignificant for some visitors. All streets in the CBD are named after members of the British royal family, such as the famous Queen Street with the huge Queen Street Mall. Queen Street stretches from northeast to southwest and is considered Brisbane’s most prestigious boulevard.

Lots of leisure fun

Shopping in the city, visiting art exhibitions, galleries and theatre performances, boat trips with many other people or a romantic holiday for two on a summer night: Brisbane overwhelms its visitors with interesting offers for big and small leisure fun:

Maheno Shipwreck, Fraser Island — The shipwreck of the Maheno in Fraser Island, Image: karegg / shutterstock

Culture lovers and art lovers will find numerous galleries, theatres and museums of various genres in the renowned Queensland Cultural Centre. While the South Bank Parklands offer wonderful opportunities for swimming, lots of sports fun, walks and bike rides or simply relaxing, visits to the Fraser Islands are a “must” for visitors to Brisbane:

The Fraser Islands are located off Queensland and are considered the largest sand island in the world with a longitudinal extension of over 120 km. There, holidaymakers can expect sandstone cliffs with great vantage points, a shipwreck, fascinating flora and fauna and unique dream beaches.

Brisbane’s dream beaches

Measured from Brisbane’s city centre, it’s less than 20 kilometres to the Pacific coast and the beautiful beaches around the city. Although Streets Beach in the South Bank Parklands offers beautiful beach life, visits to the sea beaches in Brisbane’s north and south are highly recommended: The Sunshine Coast is particularly beautiful and very popular. Along the way, visitors pass through Moreton Bay and Bribie Island, as well as the Gold Coast’s swimming beaches. The Gold Coast is considered a prime hotspot for the surfing community. There are also many shopping opportunities and a nightlife that is as amusing as it is exciting.

Great climate

A mild south-easterly trade wind is considered characteristic of the mild, warm climate in eastern Australia. Further inland, mountain ranges rise up to 2,200 metres high, which is why there is also uphill rain in the region from time to time. There are no pronounced temperature fluctuations between day and night. While there are temperature fluctuations behind the mountains near Canberra , Brisbane has a slightly humid, subtropical east-side climate. While the summer months from November to April are characterized by precipitation and warmth, in winter from May to October, as everywhere else in the southern hemisphere of the world, there is a dry climate with mild temperatures. On average, there is rain on 125 days a year and the sun shines for an average of 3,000 hours a year.

Overall, January is considered the warmest month and July the coldest month. The average annual high temperature is 26.4 °C. The lowest temperature is still a wonderfully mild 16.2 °C. The average water temperature of the sea is 24 °C. These are all the best conditions for an unforgettable holiday in and around Brisbane

Langkawi – Small island with a big culture

PatrickJullien

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31. July 2020

0

Langkawi – Small island with a big culture

Langkawi is Malaysia’s holiday island and still a real insider tip. Holidaymakers who are looking for relaxation, but also variety, who already know Thailand or do not want to visit it , will find a little gem here with fantastic beaches, evergreen forests and yet urban infrastructure and thus the amenities that make a holiday perfect. Langkawi is also still relatively unknown as a travel destination, so it is not too crowded even in the high season. The island, located west of the Malay Peninsula, is easily accessible and can boast many sights, diverse food and a colorful culture. Malaysia does not advertise itself as the real Asia for nothing.

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Langkawi, where Southeast Asia, Thailand, India, China and the West meet

STrand Cenang Langkawi — Dream beach in Cenang, Image: AsiaTravel / shutterstock

What makes Langkawi special is the unique fusion of different cultures into a harmonious overall picture. Malaysia not only offers the indigenous Southeast Asian way of life, but is also home to Thai, Chinese, Indians and Arabs. For over a thousand years, these cultures have lived side by side, creating a unique new culture that presents itself to visitors mainly through the wonderfully varied cuisine, but also unique architecture. Langkawi is home to the Perakanan houses, which were built by Chinese exiles in recent centuries. They are best explored in Penang. In addition to cuisine, culture and architecture, Langkawi also offers fascinating culture and friendly hosts who are just waiting to fulfil all the wishes of holidaymakers – the influence of Thailand cannot be denied.

Small island, but a lot to discover

The Langkawi Sky Bridge (pedestrian bridge) offers fantastic views, Image: Leonid Sorokin / shutterstock

Nature is probably the most important attraction of the island. c is actually not just one, but consists of almost a hundred small limestone islands and rocks, similar to the famous James Bond rock (which is in Thailand, however). In the north of the island there is a black sand beach, where the sand consists of dark volcanic rock. Inside, numerous nature parks invite you to explore rocks, waterfalls and lakes. The evergreen surroundings offer numerous photo opportunities. And there is also a lot to explore underwater. But culture is not neglected either. Those interested in culture can visit the local museum or marvel at the fascinating local architecture. The different peoples who have shaped the island have left their mark here: in addition to mosques, there are Chinese and Thai temples as well as traces from the colonial era of the Portuguese and British. Numerous festivities take place during the course of the year. Although Malaysia is Muslim, Islam meets Asian openness here. So there is also a very active nightlife, especially near the two most popular beaches of the island.

Pure nature and culture in a melting pot of cultures

What makes Langkawi perfect is the combination of beach, mountains and city, so that everyone from beach vacationers to culture seekers get their money’s worth. The long sandy beaches, lined with palm trees, invite you to swim, sunbathe or relax. The water is crystal clear and offers refreshment from the tropical heat. The limestone cliffs off the coast make the idyll perfect. Those who want to be active can go hiking in the mountains and enjoy the fresh air of the evergreen forests. There are no dangerous animals, and the island is too small to get lost. And after a relaxing stay at the beach or actively exploring the interior, holidaymakers can then review the day in the city in the evening with the delicious food on offer or with a colourful cocktail. Boutiques and shops also invite you to stroll and shop (duty-free). Langkawi offers a bit of everything.

Easy way to get to Langkawi

There are four ways to get there. There are no direct flights from Europe. The easiest option is by plane. There are connections to and from Kuala Lumpur, the capital of Malaysia, as well as Penang, a nearby island whose architecture is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. But there are also flights to Langkawi from Thailand. This makes it easy to integrate the beach holiday into holiday planning through connecting flights. The second option is by boat or ferry. However, the way from Kuala Lumpur is likely to be rather arduous. But to and from Penang there are some commercial lines. Finally, holidaymakers can also travel by train – on the mainland, of course, and then take the ferry. However, train journeys are often lengthy and exhausting due to the climate. From Kuala Lumpur to Alor Setar it takes a little more than ten hours. Theoretically, the trip can also be done by car, as an alternative. However, although safe independent and convenient, this is the most expensive alternative. Due to Langkawi’s good connections, the stay can be perfectly integrated into a round trip Thailand-Malaysia.

Best time to visit Langkawi

Although Langkawi is a tropical island, there are ideal times to visit. The weather is tropical and warm all year round, but typhoons also become more frequent during the second half of the year, which can lead to significant travel disruptions – not to mention rainy holidays. The best time to visit is December to April, when there is a dry season (but it is also very hot). Then the storms have subsided and it rains very rarely. During the rainy season (rest of the year) it rains daily, not all the time, but the one or two hour of rain can make it extremely humid, which makes physical activity very difficult.

The almost perfect holiday island

Langkawi offers almost the perfect holiday for those who are drawn to faraway places. Tropical sandy beaches, hospitable locals, excellent cuisine and a lot of nature and culture that you can still discover for yourself. This is either a perfect start to the Asian adventure or the end of a Malaysia or Thailand round trip. Discover Langkawi while the island is still an insider tip!

Holidays with family in Mallorca – Despite Corona

PatrickJullien

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30. July 2020

0

Holidays with family in Mallorca – Despite Corona

Holidays in Mallorca in 2020 – We dared to do it despite Corona and were not disappointed. We have summarized what preparations were necessary for this and what experiences we have gained on the island.

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Preparation of the trip

Of course, face masks are part of the hand luggage on this year’s trip, like the passport and the first-aid kit. However, before you are allowed to enter Mallorca, you must first register with the Spanish health authority, provide your contact details at home and at your holiday destination and answer a few short health questions. These health questions can be answered from 48 hours before arrival. Registration can be made a few days earlier. All you need is your identity card or passport. The form is easy to understand and comprehensible. However, it is a bit annoying that as a family of four, you have to create and fill out the form completely four times, as there is no option for a group of several people.

Airport and flight

Frankfurt Airport Corona — Nothing going on at Frankfurt Airport, Image: Reisemagazin Online

Anyone flying out of Frankfurt these days will experience the airport as empty as rarely before. Hardly any take-offs and landings and therefore only a few passengers. The check-in went absolutely smoothly with little waiting time at the baggage check-in. At the gate, the usual suspects, who are already afraid at the first boarding call that the plane could take off without them and therefore have no consideration for small children when jostling. At least something normal in these crazy days. To protect our children, we booked “Business Class” on our Condor flight for an extra charge. So the rows around us were free and of course the middle seat remained empty.

The Boeing 737 itself did not seem to be fully occupied in economy class either, so I did not notice any hygiene deficiencies here either. No open drinks were allowed to be served during the flight. Instead, the stewardesses and stewards distributed a mix of packaged sweets, snacks, yoghurt and moistening wipes in a bag. Included in Business Class, the offered mix of standard seats cost 6.50 euros.

Arrival in Palma de Mallorca

Palma de Mallorca Airport, Corona — There is also little going on at the airport in Palma de Mallorca , Image: Reisemagazin Online

Contrary to the widespread reports, we did not have any large passenger volume at the airport at 10 o’clock in the morning, so that we got through the security checks quickly and without queuing. It was a bit more crowded at the baggage claim, but all holidaymakers kept the necessary minimum distance from each other. At the rental car counters you had to bring a little patience. Apparently, many travelers here rely more on self-organized hotel transport. This can also be seen when you leave the airport building. Where one transport bus usually stands next to the other, there were large gaps this year.

Procedure in the hotel

This year’s choice fell on the Protur Biomar Gran Hotel in Sa Coma. Since we already know the hotel from previous trips to Mallorca, we can compare the situation during Covid-19 times particularly well with previous stays.

If you move around the hotel grounds, e.g. from the room to the pool, masks are compulsory from the age of 6. This is certainly a little annoying for small children, but as an adult you are already used to the mask from home. At the pool as well as at the table in the restaurant, the mask can of course be taken off.

Procedure at the buffet

In the restaurant – as usual … will present a large live cooking offer. In terms of content, the restaurant strives to provide the same scope and quality as in previous years. The buffet is set up in a classic way. The only but clear difference: service staff put the food on the guests’ plates after the choice. So you can’t portion the food yourself as usual. This limits the culinary feeling of happiness a little, as you don’t dare to try a little bit of everything. In addition, the hotel serves portioned starters and desserts in a glass or bowl, which you can take yourself. Overall, it can be said that a restaurant concept has been worked out, which nevertheless provides the guest with a special experience.

The situation in the village and on the beach

Sa Coma Beach — It is not quite as empty on the beach of Sa Coma as in this photo, even in Corona times, Image: Diego Blanco / shutterstock

One thing in advance: If you move around the village, there is a strict mask requirement in Mallorca (as of July 30, 2020). In Sa Coma, located in the southeast of the island , the Corona consequences are very clearly felt. Many shops are closed. Open shops are only lightly frequented. So far, we have always been on the road here in the pre-season and have found a lively holiday resort. This is absolutely not the case this year. On the one hand, this provides a certain security, but it also makes you a little sad because it is foreseeable how hard the Covid crisis will hit the people of Mallorca. Especially those who depend on tourism.

A few vacationers gather on the beach, but the clear majority of the official beach chairs remain empty. However, the minimum distances are observed by all beach visitors, so that a safe holiday is also possible here.

Is a holiday in Mallorca possible in 2020?

Our experience shows that a holiday in Mallorca is possible even during Corona. the Mallorcans are very keen to ensure that the restrictions are not significant and that guests can enjoy their holiday as carefree as possible. The security measures in the shops (especially in large supermarkets) are at least as strict as in Germany. We do not regret our decision to fly and would book again at any time.