Logo Reisemagazin
Monday, June 9, 2025
Home Blog Page 187

Holidays in 2021

PatrickJullien
-
0
Holidays in 2021

This year, unfortunately, the well-deserved vacation has been cancelled for many people due to the Corona crisis. After all, the borders were closed for a few months due to the epidemic and due to the travel warnings, many people refrained from vacationing to other countries. In some cases, the various regions in Germany experienced a boom, which were able to enjoy a large influx in the phases without lockdown. Next year, however, a particularly large number of people will certainly go on a trip again during the school holidays . For this reason, it could well happen that things could get particularly tight in some popular holiday regions at home and abroad. Therefore, it is highly recommended to start thinking about holidays in 2021 now. After all, it is not particularly pleasant when the holiday destination is totally overcrowded during the most beautiful time of the year and the holiday fun is considerably clouded as a result.

Germany will certainly be popular again in 2021

Föhr, North Sea Island
The North Sea island of Föhr, Image: Axel Fischer / shutterstock

Already in the recent past, a clear trend towards vacationing in one’s own country has emerged. This is actually not surprising, because more and more people are realizing how beautiful and varied their home country is. When planning for your next holiday, you should definitely take a close look at the calendar. After all, for example, you can take up to 10 days off directly in January with a clever use of bridging days and only have to use four days of vacation in some federal states. This allows you to plan a longer vacation right at the beginning of the year. Depending on your taste, you can then travel to the German coast or the mountains, for example. If the situation around the Corona crisis improves significantly, a more carefree holiday abroad may be possible again.

Travelling during the summer holidays 2021

This year, many people have cancelled their summer holidays for well-known reasons. For this reason, it can be assumed that even more people will probably want to travel on their holidays next year. For this reason, it is advisable to start planning your next holiday as early as possible. Because in many regions it could be quite crowded in 2021, especially during the summer holidays. But nevertheless, with early planning, it should not be a problem to fulfil your wish for a relaxing holiday. It is important at this point that many tour operators are working with extended cancellation options due to the events this year. From the customer’s point of view, this has the advantage that it is much easier to cancel an already booked holiday trip in 2021 if travel restrictions are still ongoing. Due to these options, it makes sense to deal with the upcoming vacation early on and book your own trip.

Travel to Southern Europe could be in demand again

For their next vacation, many people are already setting their sights on the countries in southern Europe again. This is understandable, because in Spain, Portugal and Italy, for example, the prospects of a great holiday with appealing temperatures are relatively high. It remains to be seen what the situation will be for long-haul destinations in the coming year. Here, too, there could be a strong increase in bookings if the epidemic can be brought under control in a timely manner.

These technical devices should not be missing on any trip!

PatrickJullien
-
0
These technical devices should not be missing on any trip!

Whether it’s a business trip or a pleasure, preparing for a vacation is never easy. Despite pages of packing lists, there is always something you forget to pack. However, frequent flyers and experienced travelers have gained a lot of expertise in recent years when it comes to efficient and best packing. In addition to essential things such as the passport and the right clothing, there are also some technical devices that travel experts should not miss on any trip.

Noise-cancelling headphones

Headphones Holiday
Relaxed flying with noise-cancelling headphones, Image: GaudiLab / shutterstock

There are few things more annoying than screaming babies on an airplane, loud conversations in a packed coach or the loud noises of an older model of a regional train of the railway. Luckily, nowadays there is a wide range of different headphones available, which ensure that instead of nerve-wracking noise, you can listen to soothing classical music or the latest pop hits according to your taste. One of the best models is the Bose QuietComfort 35.

Power Bank

An external battery is something you should never travel without. Whether for charging a smartphone or other technical devices, such as wireless headphones or a tablet, so-called power banks offer the possibility of keeping the mobile phone alive thanks to the strong integrated battery. In addition, many portable chargers can charge several devices at the same time through several USB ports. For regular travelers, it is therefore worthwhile to invest in a quality product here. Among the best devices are the models from Varta and Ansmann.

Laptop

Computers are now more integrated into our lives than ever before. Whether a laptop is used for work, university or playing video games, it should also be with you on every trip. Because in the age of Netflix, there is nothing better than making yourself comfortable on your hotel bed after a long day and watching the latest episode of your favorite series. With an HDMI cable, this can also be easily connected to the TV. But be careful: Especially when traveling to other countries with different sockets, not only a simple travel adapter should be used to charge the device. Often, technical requirements are not the same in different countries. That’s why leading suppliers in the electronics industry, such as RS Components , recommend investing in a suitable power cord. This way you can be sure that the expensive laptop is not damaged or even short-circuited.

E-Book Reader

Gone are the days of wasting a large part of the allowed weight of luggage on air travel by packing several books. Today, e-book readers are considered an alternative for the diligent reader, because the digital versions of a book are often cheaper. For example, the purchase of the Amazon Kindle or a similar device can even save money in the long run and the latest part of a crime series can be downloaded on the go.

 

Start the winter sports season safely

PatrickJullien
-
0
Start the winter sports season safely

Snowboarding, skiing, ice climbing – hardly any other leisure activity is as varied as outdoor sports in winter. Rapid descents alternate with relaxing hours in the midst of untouched nature. A break from everyday life included. The longing for this tempting mixture of activity and tranquillity attracts millions of winter sports fans to Europe’s ski resorts every year. The scenery is impressive, but holds many dangers. Only those who know the safety requirements in the icy heights can get through the winter sports season unharmed.

Important factors for safe outdoor sports in winter

The greatest danger comes from the cold and the unstable weather in the ski resorts. In addition, the number of winter sports enthusiasts on the slopes is increasing continuously. This makes it all the more important to know and follow the
guidelines for safety in winter sports
.

In order to meet the increasing number of visitors, the operators of the alpine areas drastically strengthened their team of rescue workers. Sportswear manufacturers followed suit and developed equipment that can withstand the freezing temperatures even more reliably.

Winter sports enthusiasts often make the mistake of relying exclusively on their good equipment. Instead, accident-free winter sports are about a targeted combination of different factors.

These are:

  • Physical fitness
  • Safe and complete equipment
  • Personal rules of conduct
  • Choosing the right area
  • Rules for behavior in the group

Many ski resorts offer safety training courses in which the practical application of the rules is practiced.

Prevent injuries and act correctly in an emergency

The safety rules are made up of measures to prevent accidents and guidelines in the event of an emergency.

The winter sports enthusiast

In the high-altitude ski resorts, the oxygen content of the air is significantly lower than in the lowlands. Physical fitness is therefore a basic prerequisite for avoiding medical emergencies in the mountains. Furthermore, it is important to observe the rules of conduct on the slopes. Consideration for other drivers and a realistic assessment of one’s own skills are essential.

The equipment

The onion look helps against cold and wind. It should consist of three layers (thermal underwear, insulating layer, water-repellent outer clothing). Sunscreen on the face and lips as well as glasses protect against UV rays. A helmet protects the head from injuries caused by falling rocks and ice. The backpack should offer enough space for a first aid kit and food.

The amount of equipment should be tailored to the activity. In addition to the basic equipment, it should include a map and a navigation device for high-altitude ski tours, glacier hikes and ice climbing. Ice axes and crampons provide a secure grip in frozen terrain. An avalanche transceiver, probe and shovel are essential as emergency equipment.

If you want to save a euro or two on equipment, you should take a look at Sport Outlets like Picksport.de .

The ski area

Enjoy winter sports, Image: Lisitskiyfoto / shutterstock

On a panorama board in front of the mountain hut, the weather conditions and avalanche danger should be read off every day. At higher altitudes, weather conditions can change abruptly, so it is advantageous to establish a plan B in advance. In the group, consideration for the weakest member applies. The selection of the slope and the scope of the tour are based on this.

Result

Taking into account the rules of safety and conduct, nothing stands in the way of an accident-free winter sports season. Those who honestly assess their abilities and are considerate of weaker athletes protect themselves and others. In an emergency, suitable equipment, a safe approach in terms of navigation and first aid prevent worse. Taking advantage of the safety courses on site keeps the knowledge fresh and strengthens the feeling for dangerous situations.

10 tips for your holiday trip with pets

PatrickJullien
-
0
10 tips for your holiday trip with pets

If you’ve ever been on vacation with a dog, cat, guinea pig, ferret, or other pet, you may know that things don’t always go as smoothly as you might have imagined. To make the trip with your four-legged friend as relaxed as possible, we have summarized 10 simple tips for you.

Prepare well for the trip

If you are traveling with your pet, the amount of preparation depends on several factors. Especially within Europe, you can travel with your pet very easily with a Pet Passport. However, in other countries it may be different and there may be additional requirements if you are entering with animals. Therefore, you should plan every trip with your pet well, find out about vaccinations and quarantines and plan your destination early on.

Before the big trip, if possible, make a smaller one

Some animals tolerate travel better than other animals. If you have never been out with your pet for a long time, it therefore makes sense to plan a small trip in advance. Longer journeys by car, train, ship or plane can cause stress for sensitive animals. Therefore, try to take breaks whenever possible, avoid large temperature fluctuations, excessive use of air conditioning and also make sure that the animal has enough space in a transport box that is as large as possible. If you do a small one for testing purposes before the big trip, you can learn how it beats your pet and how well it handles transport.

Choose the destination carefully

Think carefully about which destination is most suitable for you and your pet. A beach holiday with the hamster or a skiing holiday with the cat are certainly not common destinations when it comes to a holiday together with the animal. However, especially for cats and dogs, there are many ways to design the holiday in such a way that it becomes a positive experience for everyone involved. This can help ensure that your pet continues to have a positive attitude towards travel in the future.

Make your companion as comfortable as possible

Don’t just grab your pet and take it with you. It is better to deal with how you can make the holiday as pleasant as possible for your pet. There are various ways to do this. For example, a dog ramp for the car can help make it easier to get in and out of large cars. A dog coat , on the other hand, can ensure that man’s best friend feels comfortable outdoors even on cold or rainy days. For small animals, cages that are as large as possible are recommended, even on vacation, and so on. Think about how you can make the stay pleasant for your companion.

Take advantage of pet-friendly hotels and vacation rentals

Holidays with pets
A holiday with a pet must be well planned, Image: Monika Wisniewska / shutterstock

In most holiday regions, there are hotels and holiday homes that specialise in the requirements of pet owners. There are sometimes excursion options for you and your pet or special care or accessories such as food bowls, dog salons and so on. Even if you are on holiday without a pet, it is good to know that your dog, cat, mouse and co. are in good hands and looked after while you are on the road.

Know all the regulations for pets in the destination country

Before you embark on your trip or plan your trip, it’s important to take a close look at your destination’s pet policies and regulations. This includes quarantine policies, laws, and other policies. This way, you can prevent mistakes and severe penalties if you don’t follow the guidelines.

A sense of home for your pet

If you take beloved items such as blankets, bowls or toys with you, you can help ensure that the animal does not feel like a stranger in the distance. We therefore recommend taking some familiar items from home with you on holiday.

Inform airlines and car rental companies

You should check with airlines and rental car rental companies before you travel to find out what regulations apply to your pet, breed and destination country. Different providers, countries and service providers deal with pets differently. So make sure that you know all the regulations exactly.

Maintain familiar rituals

Even on vacation, you should keep the rituals that the animal has become accustomed to. This includes, for example, the times for walks or eating. The more familiar routines you can maintain, the easier it will be for the animal to settle in.

Let your pet share in the holiday

Don’t just take your pet with you, look for activities that you can experience together with your pet. Of course, this is especially true if you are traveling with dogs or cats. Also, try not to leave the animal alone in the unfamiliar environment for too long, as this can cause stress.

 

5 tips on how to find the best suitcase

PatrickJullien
-
0
5 tips on how to find the best suitcase

It is not so easy to find the perfect case, because other cases are correspondingly more recommended for different areas of use. Of course, it also depends on your personal taste, after all, a suitcase should not only be durable, but also look good and be clearly visible on the conveyor belt at the airport.

In the following, we would like to help you with five tips to narrow down the offer and to be able to find the best suitcase quickly, regardless of its appearance.

  1. The right volume

Before you just blindly buy a suitcase, we recommend that you put all your travel utensils, clothes and accessories together and pack them as compactly as possible on one surface. This allows you to measure the minimum volume you need quite easily – albeit without additional pressure.

Of course, how big a suitcase should be also depends on your usual travel time. Typically, suitcases for a weekend trip have a volume of between 20 and 40 liters. Suitcases for a one-week trip, on the other hand, should already have a volume of about 50 to 70 liters. For longer trips of 10 days or more, we recommend a suitcase with a capacity of 70 to 90 litres. Very large XXL suitcases are also available with a volume of up to 140 litres. Such models are then also suitable for three- or four-week trips.

  1. Listen to experience and tests

Since new models are constantly coming onto the market, it is practically impossible to keep track of them. Therefore, it is advisable to find out about current models and recommendations via comparison portals such as https://10toptest.de . Reviews from other buyers can also help to distinguish a bad suitcase from a good one. You should not be guided solely by product photos, because you can hardly see the quality, workmanship and handling.

  1. Hard shell, soft core

Suitcase
Hard shell, soft core, Image: aanbetta / shutterstock

When it comes to suitcases, a distinction is made between hard-shell suitcases and softshell suitcases, i.e. suitcases with a soft shell. The latter are much more flexible, softer and can be deformed a bit, which is interesting if you want to store them frequently in the trunk. In addition, they can stretch outwards, so that a little more fits in than is actually indicated.

Hard-shell cases, on the other hand, are much more solid, the contents are usually better protected from water and they are often more solid, especially if wheels are installed, which can simply be fixed better to the hard-shell case. Sensitive clothing that wrinkles easily can be transported much better in a hard-shell suitcase and sensitive objects are also better protected here. Hard-shell suitcases are usually made of a combination of polycarbonate and/or ABS. Prolypropylene or aluminum are also common. Soft-shell suitcases, on the other hand, are made of flexible materials such as polyester, nylon or leather.

  1. Trolley, travel bag or suitcase?

Most suitcases sold today are trolleys because they have wheels, making them easier to move around without having to carry them all the time. However, you should always pay attention to high-quality wheels, because they can be a weak point in cheap suitcases.

Compared to trolleys, you have to carry travel bags all the time and you can’t use them as a seat, which can be quite handy for a suitcase when you’re standing in a queue. Classic hard-shell suitcases without wheels are now becoming less and less common, as they can neither be wheeled nor carried with a shoulder strap. With trolleys, you can pull out a telescopic handle and pull the suitcase or bag comfortably behind you. The big advantage of a travel bag is certainly that you can also use it as a sports bag or for other purposes, for example.

  1. The maximum weight of the airlines

Especially if you want to take the suitcase with you on air travel, you should consider how much extra weight you can take with you without additional fees before buying. Especially with large hard-shell suitcases, the dead weight of the suitcase also plays a major role.

Lightweight wide-shell suitcases allow you to take significantly more clothing and other things with you before you reach the maximum weight. Most airlines allow an additional 20 kilograms of weight for checked baggage. On cheap flights, on the other hand, you are often not allowed to check in baggage at all without paying a surcharge. In these cases, it may be advisable to look at the maximum dimensions of hand luggage. However, only very small suitcases will fall within the maximum size of the carry-on bag.

Sarajevo, the pearl of Bosnia

PatrickJullien
-
0
Sarajevo, the pearl of Bosnia

A visit to the Bosnian city of Sarajevo is a moving journey back in time to past centuries. Buildings of different religions characterize the impressive cityscape of the 300,000-strong pearl of Bosnia.

The history of Sarajevo

Sarajevo Old Town
Image: Leonid Andronov / shutterstock

As early as the 13th century, there is evidence of a Slavic settlement where Sarajevo is located today. But just two centuries later, what can still be called the curse and blessing of the capital of Bosnia-Herzegovina began: its location at the transition between Orient and Occident. A Bosnian who converted to Islam developed the city as an outpost of the Ottoman Empire, and at the end of the 15th century a Turkish governor built his Saray, his palace here – Sarajevo still bears this in its name today.

In the centuries that followed, West and East fought over the Balkans, as evidenced by numerous wars between the Western great powers led by the Habsburg Empire and the Ottoman Empire. But also a very enriching cultural exchange shaped the face of the Bosnian metropolis on the Red River, the Miljacka. Oriental builders created fascinating mosques and fountains, but Ottoman tolerance also made it possible for Christian and Jewish communities to live in the city.

Towards the end of the 19th century, the Ottoman Empire, the “Old Man on the Bosporus”, weakened, the Danube Monarchy occupied Bosnia-Herzegovina and made Sarajevo the capital of the province of the same name. The First World War began with the assassination of the Austrian heir to the throne Franz Ferdinand in Sarajevo. For us today, the Bosnian war from 1992 to 1995 is still vividly remembered. Serbian nationalists shelled the besieged capital of the newly proclaimed state of Bosnia-Herzegovina from the surrounding mountains. The wounds in the cityscape have healed after a quarter of a century and today Sarajevo once again presents itself as the pearl of Bosnia.

Melting pot of cultures: The sights of Sarajevo

Even though the population of downtown Sarajevo today consists mainly of Bosnian Muslims and only a few Serbs and Croats, the cityscape is characterized by numerous mosques, Catholic and Orthodox churches and synagogues. That is why Sarajevo, as a melting pot of cultures, is often called Little Jerusalem.

The Old Town

Sarajevo City Centre
The historic city center of Sarajevo, Image: May_Lana / shutterstock

Sarajevo has an excellently preserved old town with the famous Baščaršija Square in its center. In the middle of it stands the oriental-looking Sebilj Fountain, built at the end of the 19th century, which is constantly surrounded by pigeons and provides a fascinating backdrop for the hustle and bustle of the market on the square. A stroll through the alleys of the old town is worthwhile! Here, well-preserved buildings can be used to recreate the life of Ottoman traders and dignitaries as well as that of Serbian merchant families. When crossing the famous Latin Bridge, which, despite its name, is an Ottoman stone arch bridge, you find yourself at the interface between Orient and Occident. This is even more true for the goat bridge east of the old town, which leads over the Miljacka in a tranquil angle. It belonged to an old trade route that connected Central Europe with ancient Constantinople.

The Islamic Buildings

One of the oldest mosques in Bosnia and Herzegovina is the Gazi Husrev Beg Mosque from the 16th century. The spatial experience inside is characterized by a monumental dome and the stone minbar from which the sermon is spoken. In the courtyard of the mosque there is a special gem: the lovely Šadrvan fountain. Opposite the mosque is the old Medresa, the Islamic college with an arcade-lined courtyard that invites you to linger.

Also worth a visit is the small Ali Pasha Mosque from 1561, which is characterized by finely engraved ornaments and graceful domes. The famous Imperial Mosque, which was also built in the 16th century and is located outside the city, does not conclude the series of fascinating oriental testimonies. This is where the Grand Mufti of Bosnia and Herzegovina has his seat today.

The Christian and Jewish buildings

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

The city’s old Orthodox church was built under Ottoman rule, and it is a testimony to the cultural and religious diversity in the city. The church dates back to the 16th century and is now a museum. The Cathedral of the Nativity of the Virgin Mary, which was built under the Ottomans as a concession to the Western powers, is used as a Serbian Orthodox place of worship. The magnificent neo-baroque building stands not far from the Catholic Sacred Heart Cathedral from the end of the 19th century, which was used by the Croatian population.

As a testimony to the former religious diversity, the Jewish cemetery is located on a slope outside the city. The oldest surviving graves date back to the 16th century. After the crimes of the Second World War by the Germans, there are only a few Jews left in Sarajevo, but they are trying to bridge the rifts between the different ethnic groups and religions.

The museums

A rich collection on the country’s multifaceted history is housed in the monumental National Museum, built in neoclassical style. In a separate secure room, you can admire a unique testimony to the Jewish faith, the illuminated manuscript of the Sarajevo Haggadah, which was written in Spain in the 14th century and brought to Sarajevo by emigrants.

Important prehistoric, natural history and ethnographic objects are part of the museum’s diverse collection. In the country’s Historical Museum, it is possible to obtain comprehensive information about the Bosnian War, to which the rebuilt National Library bears eloquent testimony. It is housed in the magnificent former city hall of Sarajevo, which went up in flames after targeted shelling in 1992 – along with its numerous bibliophile treasures. But like a phoenix from the ashes, the National Library has risen again – just like the pearl of Bosnia as a whole.

The landscape

Sarajevo is nestled in the valley of the Miljacka, surrounded by mountains and high-altitude resorts such as Pale. Today, despite all the tensions between the ethnic groups, it is peaceful in the city and its surroundings, a discovery of the pearl of Bosnia is more worthwhile than ever.

Natural highlight Niagara Falls

PatrickJullien
-
0
Natural highlight Niagara Falls

A tourist attraction on the border between the USA and Canada is the Niagara Falls, some of which let their enormous masses of water tumble down from a height of 57 meters. The American Falls, the Horseshoe Falls and the Bridal Veil Falls form one of the most bombastic natural spectacles in the world.

Natural highlight on the US-Canadian border

Niagara Falls from above
Niagara Falls from above, Image: TRphotos / shutterstock

In a normal year, over 20 million visitors are drawn to the famous Niagara Falls, which is fed by the Niagara River. The magnificent falls are located between the two sister cities of Niagara Falls, which can be found on the Canadian and US sides. About 168,000 m³ per minute flow down the prominent waterfalls on busy days – a top value among waterfalls in North America. The Horseshoe Falls, the largest of the three waterfalls, are particularly powerful. The distinctive geological formations that favored Niagara Falls were formed before the last glacial period.

When the glaciers melted, the Great Lakes of North America were formed – and with them the permanent connection between the two North American bodies of water, Lake Eri and Lake Ontario, known today as Niagara Falls. Since the 18th century, the energy released in this way has also been used to generate electricity via dam power plants. But far away from all the facts, Niagara Falls today are above all an aesthetically impressive natural spectacle that knows how to inspire visitors from all over the world. And the famous waterfalls have also been immortalized in pop culture in unforgettable cinematic works – whether in the 1953 film classic Niagara with Marilyn Monroe and Joseph Cotton or the superhero classic Superman II (1980) with Christopher Reeve.

Tourist highlights at Niagara Falls

Niagara
Image: Lidiia Kozhevnikova / shutterstock

Especially in the summer months, Niagara Falls are well visited. There are several ways for visitors to see Niagara Falls in all its glory. The Maid of the Mist tours, which first took place in Niagara Falls in 1846, are still very popular today. The traditional boat tours make the spectacularly thundering waterfalls immediate, but you should be prepared for a wet pleasure. A Canadian alternative is Hornblower Niagara Falls Cruises, which also offers regular boat tours. An impressive tour on the mainland is the equally popular Journey Behind the Falls, which leads through historic rock at the Horseshoe Falls.

The highlight of this tour, however, is the Observation Deck in the immediate vicinity of the Horseshoe Falls. If you prefer to enjoy Niagara Falls from a safe distance in an impressive panorama, you can visit the Skylon Tower. The approximately 160-meter-high building in Niagara Falls, Ontario presents the bombastic scenery of Niagara Falls from the Canadian side. A spectacular perspective from above is also offered at Table Rock, which is located at the Horseshoe Falls. The Table Rock Welcome Center is also the ideal starting point to start the tour to the North American natural wonder.

Sights near Niagara Falls

A visit to Niagara Falls, which is undoubtedly considered a tourist highlight of the border region between Canada and the USA, can be excellently combined with other sights in the region. In the Canadian community of Niagara Falls are the Botanical Gardens, which opened in 1936 and now cover about 40 hectares. One of the highlights of the gardens is the rose garden with over 2,000 roses. Not far from the falls, in Niagara Falls, Canada, is also the Clifton Hill tourist promenade. There are numerous attractions for visitors here. In particular, the SkyWheel with breathtaking views of Niagara Falls is worth mentioning. One thing is certain: Niagara Falls has a lot to offer in terms of tourism.

Trans Bavarian Forest – 2 x 7 days biking in “Little Canada”

PatrickJullien
-
0
Trans Bavarian Forest – 2 x 7 days biking in “Little Canada”

Display

Would you like to combine a challenging mountain bike holiday with the advantages of impressive nature and Bavarian hospitality? The Trans-Bayerwald combines all this in two almost 350-kilometre-long routes through the Bavarian Forest and is therefore the new mountain bike highlight in the Bavarian Forest.

When planning the MTB trip, you are supported by a visually sophisticated starter package. This includes a travel diary with a stamp card, the detailed stage booklet as well as information on accommodation, restaurants and public transport. You will receive this starter package free of charge by e-mail after ordering.

In order to be able to enjoy the Trans Bayerwald – a joint project of the East Bavarian Tourism Association, the district associations and numerous supporters funded with state funds – you should definitely take the time to ride all seven stages of a route. Individual sections otherwise do not reflect the entire beauty of the route. Those responsible attach particular importance to mutual consideration as well as compliance with the path requirements and consideration for the protected areas in order to preserve the uniqueness of this nature.

But let’s take a closer look at the two routes:

The northern route – from Passau to Furth im Wald

Passau Trans Bavarian Forest
Passau, starting point of the TransBayerwald Northern Route, Image: Boris Stroujko / shutterstock

The northern route of the Trans Bayerwald takes you from the three-river city of Passau to the town of Furth im Wald, which is close to the Czech border.

On this 361-kilometre-long MTB tour, you will visit the Bavarian Forest National Park, marvel at the bizarre granite rocks in the Dreisessel massif and enjoy the fabulous view over the Bavarian Forest from the peaks of the Großer Arber, which is 1,456 metres high at its peak.

It is quite possible that you will be able to catch a glimpse of wolves, lynxes, otters or the European bison when visiting Lohberg Zoo.

Mountain bikers who want to really let off steam can do so on a challenging route at the Predigtstuhl. The single trail circuit was designed by the local mountain bike club Sportivo in a natural way and equipped exclusively with natural obstacles.

The southern route – from Furth im Wald to Passau

On the southern route, you conquer a total of almost 8,300 metres in altitude over a total length of 339 kilometres. The route is characterized by longer and challenging trails and steep climbs.

MTB Bischofsmais Transbayerwald
The MTB hotspot Bischofsmais is also located on the southern route of the Trans Bayerwald, Image: Felix Seichter / shutterstock

For connoisseurs, the mountain bike hotspots Sankt Englmar and the Geisskopf bike park in Bischofsmais are also well-known. You will meet these on the stages South-4 and South-5.

If you want to get off the saddle and can’t do without action, we recommend a ride on “Da voglwuide Sepp” – with a length of 755 meters and a difference in altitude of 27 meters, the longest roller coaster in Bavaria.

But there are also many cultural highlights to marvel at on the southern route. Near Stamsried you will visit one of the largest castles in the Upper Palatinate, whose observation tower offers a great view over the Regental. A nice end to the route is a visit to St. Stephen’s Cathedral in Passau. The cathedral, built in 1662, delights its visitors with one of the world’s largest church organs in the world.

Important information: The necessary GPS data for all routes of the north and south routes can be downloaded from the Trans Bayerwald website.

No matter which of the two routes they choose. You can expect a wonderful mixture of sporting incentive, impressive nature, loving variety and well-known culinary delights.

Sand, sun and sea – Pearl of the Caribbean: Providenciales

PatrickJullien
-
0
Sand, sun and sea – Pearl of the Caribbean: Providenciales

Providenciales is an incredible tropical vacation destination in the Caribbean, offering gorgeous beaches as well as plenty of opportunities for activities beyond beach life. Almost untouched nature, countless sports opportunities and numerous interesting excursions await the holidaymaker. Providenciales is only about 24 km long and therefore not difficult to explore.

Golden beaches with powdery sand

One of the highlights of Providenciales is, of course, the number of great beaches to discover. Many of the beautiful bays are a bit remote and definitely worth exploring with the help of a guide, a local taxi driver or even by rental car. Less-visited yet impressive stretches of coastline include Turtle Tail Beach, Babalua Beach, and Malcolm’s Road Beach.

With these gorgeous beaches, it’s no surprise that most of the activities on Providenciales involve the crystal clear ocean. There are excellent reefs for diving and snorkeling, extensive bays perfect for kayaking and surfing, and romantic, hidden bays. Many of the beaches on the north coast of Providenciales are part of the spectacular Princess Alexandra National Park, which includes barrier reefs, shallow bays, and maritime wetlands.

On the “wild side” are the secluded beaches on Malcolm’s Road, West Harbor Bluff and Northwest Point, where reefs, coastal cliffs and shallow waters add variety to the landscape. The west coast is quite close to the edge of the underwater sea plateau of the Caicos Islands and therefore has a slightly rougher atmosphere with deep blue waters and landing waves.

In addition to pure bathing pleasure, visitors can also let off steam in sports: parasailing is offered on several beaches and thus opens up an impressive view of the enchanting landscape from above.

Scenic impressions of Providenciales

Split Rock, Providenciales
Split Rock, Image: Gaeta.J / shutterstock

Although Providenciales has developed considerably over the past two decades, there are still some scenic routes that run through the country far from the usual tourist trails, such as the Chalk Drive.

This paved and winding road follows the south side of the impressive Chalk Sound National Park. There are rugged little limestone bays, imposing luxury villas and turquoise waters to discover everywhere.

Once in the Chalk Sound area, the tourist should also stop at Sapodilla Hill to enjoy the views and quiet beaches of Sapodilla Bay and Taylor Bay.

The vegetation in the area is also unique. Much of the landscape is weathered limestone, and the stunted and salt-resistant straw palms, joewood trees, sea grapes, and sword bushes are somewhat reminiscent of old bonsai plants.

Venetian Road on the central Leeward Highway offers another scenic drive. This road, about 8 km long, runs unpaved along the shores of Turtle Pond and Juba Sound and ends at the eastern point of the Turtle Tail Peninsula.
The views from the 23m high Bristol Hill at the end of Venetian Road offer further breathtaking views of the Caicos Banks.

The Blue Hills Road coastal road is located directly on the beach in front of Blue Hills, the oldest settlement on Providenciales. The route is characterized by an enchanting Caribbean atmosphere with coconut trees, small churches and a sleepy, picturesque settlement. The numerous small restaurants are a great place to stop for a bite to eat with local delicacies for the rest of the journey.

Even more nature experiences

Underwater world Providenciales
Fantastic underwater world on Providenciales, Image: Eric Carlander / shutterstock

It’s difficult to compete with the spectacular beaches and marine life of the Turks and Caicos Islands, but the island’s flora and fauna are just as inspiring. There are extensive wetlands, mangrove channels and the Conch Bar Caves, the largest dry cave system in the entire Lucayan archipelago.

Much of the region has not yet been developed and it is an unforgettable experience to discover these areas that few tourists have seen so far.

Providenciales can also serve with beautiful and varied coastal hiking trails. Developed hiking routes are still very rare due to the undeveloped nature of the island. The best hiking trail in the country, the Crossing Place Trail, passes limestone coasts, beaches, wetlands, and karst caves.

In the extensive wetlands, flamingos, herons, ospreys and pelicans are widespread on the island. In the arid areas and forests, smaller birds such as mangrove cuckoos, nighthawks and the graceful Bahamian hummingbird can be observed. There are no official birding tours on Providenciales, but charter trips can be arranged with many local eco-tour guides.
With so much nature, of course, the photo enthusiast also gets his money’s worth.
Nature and bird photographers are rewarded with an endless number of motifs on the island. In addition to the impressive landscapes and colorful fauna, there are also a large number of endangered animal species that are native to the area. One example is the Caicos iguana. This endangered lizard species has been found in some uninhabited bays.

Nightlife and entertainment

Providenciales is the island’s main tourist destination and offers the widest range of nightly entertainment. The bars and small nightclubs are the most popular way to spend a romantic yet fun evening. Beach barbeque, campfire evenings and sunset boat trips are also among the activities that visitors should not miss.

Club Med Turkoise offers a varied party environment for adults, with shows and dance performances that can last until late at night and into the early hours of the morning.

But many small bars also organize special events, from quiz nights and karaoke to disco parties. Often, live bands and solo entertainers also perform one or two nights a week. In any case, no one will be bored here.

Holidays on the sea 2021: Insider tips in Europe

PatrickJullien
-
0
Holidays on the sea 2021: Insider tips in Europe

Renting a boat is a great way to see a place from a different perspective. Whether you choose a boating holiday with friends for your next travel experience or rent a boat for a private family holiday, enjoying the scenery and views from the water is unbeatable.

Being on a boat near the coast makes every moment of a vacation special: a trip to a nearby island for lunch, an adventure to discover the underwater world, or a sunset cocktail on the deck can bring some lasting memories of happiness to your trip.

It is not always easy to discover new places in Europe that have not yet been conquered by mass tourism, but a boat trip certainly offers you the best opportunities to find these “hidden spots”.

Here are three places that are best visited by boat to admire the stunning coastlines from the water.

Montenegro

This holiday destination, which is still largely spared by tourists, offers so many possibilities: from mountains and gorges to fjord-like bays, from nostalgic old towns to breathtaking beaches.

Stroll through the medieval streets of Kotor and eat the most amazing seafood in the fishing village. Feel like a millionaire in Porto Montenegro, the most luxurious marina in this part of the world. Visit the nostalgic old towns of Perast, Risan, and Herceg Novi. Hike in the mountains of Kotor. Experience nightlife and party in Budva and Tivat. Relax in the newly opened, chic Lazure Marina.

As you can see, Croatia’s twin sister, Montenegro, offers you so many “hidden spots” that all want to be discovered by you from the sea.

Corsica: Bonifacio and Lavezzi Islands

Santa Giulia, Corsica
View of Santa Giulia beach in Corsica, Image: Samuel Borges Photography / shutterstock

Welcome to Bonifacio, a unique and impressive village in Corsica. The beautiful landscapes, crystal clear coves and huge rocks are just some of the attractions of this amazing village. The whole village is 60 m above sea level and stands on rocks. Port Bonifacio is a great port to leave your boat.

After exploring Bonifacio, you’ll set sail again and travel around the Lavezzi Islands. Here, when travelers go ashore, they are greeted by the fresh scents of the islands’ nature.

However, it is the relationship between the islands and wildlife that makes them such a magical destination. The main island of Lavezzi is home to a collection of evocative landscapes and enchanting coves. Some call this archipelago the Seychelles of the Mediterranean.

Located between Corsica and Sardinia, the Lavezzi Islands invite sailors to explore their dreamy azure waters. Bays with dream beaches, extravagant granite formations and a variety of rare flora and fauna make the archipelago something very special.

Of the Lavezzi Islands, only the Île de Cavallo is inhabited, the other islands remain largely untouched. A large part of the archipelago is protected and to keep it that way, only the islands of Lavezzi, Cavallo and Piana can be visited by tourists.

Piran, Slovenia

The next stop is in Piran, a beautiful port city on the Adriatic coast. Piran has a very beautiful beach and is ideal for a beach holiday in Slovenia. The streets of the old town are a bit narrow, but it is very impressive to walk along the old buildings and take a look at the old town. The local cuisine also has a lot to offer. The marina of Portoroz is the nearest port where you can safely moor your boat.

Cast off!

Europe offers an unlimited selection of beautiful and charming places. If you want a holiday full of unique and unforgettable experiences, you should visit some of these hidden gems. Of course, the best way to do this is to book a boating holiday. Even if you should feel the effects of tourism during a shore leave, one thing is certain: back on your boat and on the wide, open sea, you will never feel cramped.

1...186187188...202Page 187 of 202