On the south coast of the Caribbean island of Hispaniola lies Santo Domingo de Guzmán. The capital of the Dominican Republic presents itself as a modern metropolis and is the largest city in the country with around 3 million inhabitants.
The special fascination of the city lies not least in the fact that Santo Domingo de Guzmán was the first city built by Europeans on the American continent, from which today’s metropolis could grow. Santo Domingo de Guzmán is one of the most fascinating cities today, because from modern, sparkling shopping streets to the colonial city center, Santo Domingo surprises its visitors with a very special atmosphere and numerous contrasts, which combine in the metropolis to create a unique cocktail.
As early as 1496, the first Europeans settled at the mouth of the Ozama River. Bartolomeo Columbus officially founded Santo Domingo de Guzmán in 1498 and thus the current metropolis of the Dominican Republic is the oldest city founded by Europeans in the New World.
Originally founded as La Neva Isabela, the city was rebuilt on the west bank of the Ozama River due to a hurricane and an ant plague and received its current name. The new foundation was accompanied by the fact that the city was built according to plan. Accordingly, a colonial city emerged, as the city planners of the Renaissance wished. The Plaza de Armas was laid out as the center of the ideal city. Around the square, the streets were laid out at right angles, which was unique in Latin America and served as a blueprint for later colonial cities.
The Cathedral of Santo Domingo was built between 1521 and 1540, making it the oldest cathedral on the continent. In addition, the first university on the continent of America was founded in 1538. In 1990, the historic old town was named a World Heritage Site, because the old town on the western bank of the Rio Ozama is largely preserved and gives interesting insights into the colonial era. An impressive collection of buildings from the founding period ensures that Santo Domingo de Guzmán has unique sights.
The main attractions of Santo Domingo
Metropolitan Cathedral Basilica of the Annunciation of the Virgin Mary
The statue of Columbus in front of the cathedral, Image: Baranov E / shutterstock
The Cathedral of Santo Domingo is part of the colonial city of Santo Domingo and therefore part of the World Heritage Site. With its coral limestone façade, the church attracts attention. Architecture enthusiasts will be fascinated by the church with its Gothic and Baroque elements. Equally impressive are the art treasures of the basilica and the treasury with its art collection, with the high altar made of silver proving to be an absolute eye-catcher.
Alcázar de Colón
Alcázar de Colón, Image: murkalor / shutterstock
Located directly on the Rio Ozama, the Alcázar de Colón Palace, which was once built under Diego Columbus between 1510 and 1514, is impressive. The palace in the old town was already listed as a national monument in the 19th century and renovated in the 1950s. Today, the Renaissance-style building impresses with its architectural subtleties, excellent location and, of course, its eventful past.
Fortaleza Ozama
At the mouth of the Ozama River, the Forteleza Ozama was built in the 16th century. The historic castle complex rises above the port area of Santo Domingo and the view that reveals itself to visitors here is correspondingly charming.
Museo de las Casas Reales
Once when kings held audiences here and later the building was used as the governor’s palace. Today, the historic building is worth a visit because of its architectural features, its beautiful courtyard and also the exhibitions, because the palace is now used as a museum. Exhibitions about the history of the country and colonization inspire with interesting details and fascinating exhibits.
Most people associate Freiburg im Breisgau with “university, students, the Black Forest and pleasant temperatures”. Many also have the small watercourses in mind, which are called “Bächle” by the locals and which can be found again and again in the alleys of the city centre. Freiburg is located in the southwest of Germany, in the region with the mildest climate in the country and offers visitors a great mix of picturesque old town and beautiful nature. During a city trip to Freiburg, neither cultural activities nor activities in the wonderfully green surroundings close to the Black Forest are neglected.
The most important sights of Freiburg
The city center of Freiburg, Image: Sina Ettmer Photography / shutterstock
Freiburg’s medieval old town was largely destroyed during the air raids in World War II and later restored. Fortunately, however, some of the most important buildings were spared from the bombs. While walking through the picturesque little alleys, the Bächle attract not only all children, but also many adults like magnets. You can’t help but splash around in the clear water with your hands or feet at least once. It comes from the Dreisam, the river on which Freiburg is located.
But be careful: If you are not planning to marry a Freiburger, you should not accidentally “dappen” into a Bächle, because that would lead to such a wedding, as they say here. The small watercourses were created shortly after the city was founded in the 12th century to supply households with water and to always have sufficient extinguishing water within reach. During a stroll through the historic center, artistically decorated house facades catch the eye again and again, which make great photo motifs.
The city’s landmark is the Freiburg Cathedral, which was completed in 1513 after a construction period of more than 300 years. The west tower is 116 m high and was already described by a historian in the 19th century as “the most beautiful tower on earth”. It has 16 bells and especially the sound of the 750-year-old Hosanna bell is unmistakable. It is the oldest Angelus bell in Germany. Around the cathedral, the cathedral market takes place every weekday morning, where out-of-towners and locals stock up on fruit and vegetables.
The city fortifications used to be equipped with five defensive towers, two of which have been preserved to this day. The Martinstor and the Schwabentor are undoubtedly among the most impressive buildings in Freiburg. The Historisches Kaufhaus should also be on the agenda of every visitor. The magnificent interiors, such as the fireplace and rococo halls, can only be visited as part of events taking place there, but even from the outside the elaborately decorated building with the red façade catches the eye. The inner courtyard is regularly used for open-air events and is an absolute highlight of the city. Freiburg has several high-class museums, especially the Augustinian Museum, which is located in a former convent and the associated monastery church from the 13. and 14th century, enjoys an excellent reputation.
It is worth taking a walk through the Old Cemetery. Tourists interested in art history in particular should take a closer look at the beautiful old tombs, all of which date from the period between 1683 and 1872.
Freiburg’s cosy cafés and restaurants invite you to stop for a bite to eat during a city tour. Since the weather here is generally much milder than in other areas of Germany, the range of outdoor gastronomy is extremely diverse and what could be nicer than having a refreshment or meal outside in your free time and watching the people strolling by? In the many boutiques and shops, most of which are housed in the historic townhouses, every tourist will find a tasteful souvenir.
In Freiburg, a classic city trip can be perfectly combined with various activities in nature. On the edge of Freiburg’s old town, the 456 m high Schlossberg rises with the Schlossberg tower on its summit, which allows a fantastic view of the near and far surroundings. In the park-like grounds, there are numerous paths for wonderfully relaxing walks, which are very popular at any time of the year.
The real local mountain of the city, however, is the 1284 m high Schauinsland. It is worth taking the cable car, which covers a distance of 3600 m, to its summit and enjoy the fantastic view on the way. The Schauinsland is an ideal area for many outdoor sports. It is crossed by hiking and cycling trails and even climbing and paragliding are possible here. The little ones are always enthusiastic about the theme trail, where well-known fairy tale characters made of wood stand at regular intervals. In winter, the mountain is firmly in the hands of winter sports enthusiasts, who find the best conditions for skiing, snowboarding and tobogganing here.
Especially for families with children, there are a variety of exciting activities in the Freiburg area. A great recommendation for an eventful day is the treetop walk in Waldkirch, which is about 23 km away. If you’ve always wanted to experience the forest from a bird’s eye view, this is the place for you. In addition, nature can be felt up close on a sensory path and a barefoot path and, to top it off, visitors of all ages can whiz down the longest giant tube slide in Europe (190 m).
You certainly won’t get bored during a stay in Freiburg, because the attractions in the city and its surroundings are incredibly diverse
Lake Geneva, or Lac Léman as it is called in French, is located between Switzerland and France. It thus connects both cultures and holds a variety of different facets and impressions. Art lovers will find many historic chapels and museums of various art movements in the old towns around the shores of the largest lake in Central Europe. Nature lovers will not only be thrilled by the unique mountain panorama that rises above the water. And if you just want to take a relaxing break, you will find numerous opportunities for long walks along the promenades, to lose yourself in the shopping paradises of the cities or to be enchanted by the gastronomic offer. Of course, the destination is particularly attractive for all water sports enthusiasts who can really let off steam on the lake.
With 580 square kilometres of water, Lake Geneva holds the title of the largest inland lake in Central Europe. At the southwestern tip is the Swiss canton of Geneva, the north shore belongs to the canton of Vaud and a small part of the eastern south bank is attributed to the canton of Valais; the rest of the south bank is in French territory. With a holiday, you can experience different cities, cultures and ways of life, each of which has its own special features. At its deepest point, it goes down 310 meters, which also makes it the deepest lake in France. In addition to the Rhône and Dranse, other, smaller rivers such as the Venoge and the Aubonne flow into it. The largest and most famous cities along the coast are Geneva, Lausanne and Montreux.
Geneva, the lake’s namesake
Lake Geneva (or Lac Léman), Image: Samuel Borges Photography / shutterstock
The city on the shores of the lake is Geneva, known above all as the cradle of watchmaking and the unofficial capital of the kingdom of chocolate. Tradition is very important here and nostalgia can arise in the streets at the sight of the historic buildings and rustic houses. The old town, which rises above the left bank, is dominated by the Cathedral of St. Pierre and is also home to the oldest square in the city, the Place du Bourg-de-Four.
Although French is the dominant language, as everywhere around the lake, Geneva is considered one of the most international cities in the world. Here, the quality of life is also said to be one of the best in the world, which is also noticeable in everyday things. The locals may seem a bit closed at times, but they have a very friendly and cheerful nature. You can feast on exquisite gastronomy right on the waterfront, enjoy an impressive performance in Geneva’s Grand Théâtre opera house or visit one of the many museums. For example, the Musée international de l’horlogie is a watch museum that presents the history and diversity of watchmaking in Geneva.
Lausanne – holiday region and lively cultural city
Lausanne, the capital of the Swiss canton of Vaud, picturesquely situated on three hills, impresses with a unique view. Standing on the shore of the lake, you have an unobstructed view of the Savoy Alps on the French side, which rise impressively above the water. This combination of snow-covered peaks and bright sunshine with sea flair make the city’s promenade an absolute highlight.
The city is home to a large number of historic, impressive buildings such as the cathedral, which is the focus of the cityscape as an early Gothic building. From the towers you have a wide view over the lake, the Alpine panorama and the surrounding towns. The palace hotels and associated parks also invite you to marvel and stroll. As far as art is concerned, the Olympic Museum is particularly noteworthy, where sports fans get their money’s worth. The Olympic Committee has been based here since 1914 and thus also attracts other major sporting events such as the Lausanne Marathon or the international athletics meeting “Athletissima”.
Inspiring Montreux
A touch of the Mediterranean, a touch of poetry and a picturesque setting make the town of Montreux a real gem. The greats of show business such as Freddie Mercury and Prince were inspired here; Charlie Chaplin even spent the last 25 years of his life in this place. A museum, Chaplin’s World , has been set up for him, where his fans can walk in the footsteps of their hero.
The collection of famous visitors is not surprising, as the view and the southern climate invite you to dream of past passions and better days. A full schedule of the city with a number of cultural events allows the artistic spirit to live on even today. The most famous and popular is probably the Montreux Jazz Festival, which fills two weeks of summer every year with music and good humour. Here, world-famous stars of the jazz scene perform alongside newcomers and regional artists, creating a relaxed atmosphere in which you can indulge in the music and the cheerful mood.
Lake Geneva is as diverse and special as the individual regions that frame it. Whether it’s tradition and international enjoyment in Geneva, historic buildings and a great panorama in Lausanne or art and poetry in Montreux, everyone gets their money’s worth here.
A wellness holiday is not only a good idea to escape the gloomy dirty weather in Germany. The holiday offers relaxation for body and soul with various baths, massages and other treatments. The relaxed atmosphere, but also exercise in the fresh air, make you fit, strengthen the immune system and don’t give winter depression a chance. If you want to relax from everyday life and be pampered, you don’t have to go far. There are also a large number of wellness hotels with attractive offers in Germany and neighbouring countries.
The cold season makes you susceptible to flu, colds and other infections. The skin is severely stressed by the cold air. The gloomy weather brings the mood to its lowest point – winter blues and depression are the result. This also affects the immune system, which is weakened as a result. The dry heating air dries out the mucous membranes. Viruses and bacteria have an easy time settling and spreading in the cold season. This makes it all the more important now to strengthen the immune system and pamper body and soul. Most people associate wellness with sauna visits or spa resorts. However, physical and mental well-being is important. The feel-good factor is completely subjective. While one relies on sauna visits, wellness means relaxation exercises or activities in nature for others. On a wellness holiday, everything can be combined. A holiday with a pampering programme makes you fit, gives you new strength and strengthens your immune system. If you take a wellness break, you can forget the worries of everyday life, get your body going again with exercise and master stress better again.
Current wellness trends of the season
A guest survey of 3,000 wellness enthusiasts Participants of beauty24 and Wellness-Hotels & Resorts, which took place from December 2019 to the beginning of February 2020, will be informed about the new trends. Guests are happy to pay a little more for quality. 139 wellness hoteliers also took part in this survey. At the top of the popularity scale
supervised outdoor activities
Digital detox without mobile devices in the spa area
Wellness with the family
Environmental awareness and sustainability.
As the survey showed, guests are happy to pay for good care. For example, they take part in guided hikes or rent e-bikes. An important trend with activities and wellness is also cycling holidays with guided bike tours. The renunciation of mobile devices is also an important concern of many guests, but also of many hoteliers. One reason for this is the camera function of smartphones. Since most guests now voluntarily do without their smartphones in the wellness area,
Relax and unwind on a wellness holiday, Image: Kzenon / shutterstock
this problem is solved without any prohibitions. In order to reconcile rest periods for relaxation and time for the family, many wellness enthusiasts want wellness offers for the whole family. An important aspect of this is childcare. Sustainability and environmental awareness are increasingly important topics for wellness guests. They want food with organic certification and fair trade products. Nutritional advice and cooking courses are also in vogue among the wellness offers.
Different needs of wellness guests
All wellness guests want to relax, but they have different needs. Relaxation is no longer just about all-round carefree packages with massages, beauty treatments and sauna. Young people value good sleep for relaxation. Sporting activities are of great importance. The older generation is enthusiastic about excursions into nature. The wellness hoteliers have recognized this trend and are responding to the different needs of guests.
Regions with good wellness hotels
South Tyrol is a popular region for wellness holidays at any time of the year. The range of wellness hotels, which also offer the perfect opportunities for the winter, is huge there. The whole family can relax in family-friendly wellness hotels, while romantic hotels with wellness areas are suitable for couples. Germany also has many regions to relax, for example Lower Saxony with the Emsland, East Frisia and the Harz Mountains. Popular German wellness regions are also North Rhine-Westphalia, Bavaria or Rhineland-Palatinate. Other popular destinations for a wellness holiday in winter are Austria and Switzerland.
Conclusion: Many regions for wellness holidays nearby
Wellness is important in the cold season to strengthen the immune system and forget the stress of everyday life. Current trends in the season are sustainable wellness offers, wellness holidays with the family and supervised activities. If you are planning a wellness holiday in winter, you don’t have to go far. In South Tyrol, Austria and Switzerland, but also in Germany, there are many scenic regions with wellness hotels.
I’m sure you’re familiar with this: although the suitcase was already full to bursting at the start of the trip, you actually come back from your vacation with more luggage. Unfortunately, this phenomenon does not only refer to material things, but is often also physically noticeable. You sweat for months in the gym to show off your bikini figure during the holidays and as soon as you’re back home, your muscles hide under a well-nourished layer of fat. No wonder that frustration returns not only with regard to the work at hand. But be careful, once you know the little pitfalls that smuggle a gram or two onto your hips, you can avoid them. Here’s what you should know the next time you travel.
Sweat on holiday? At most at 30°C by the pool. Of course, there is nothing wrong with a little lazing around. Once a year it has to be easy, otherwise the vacation wouldn’t be a vacation. Besides, you won’t get fat from a week on the beach towel.
Nevertheless, your calorie turnover in the warm, southern holiday regions drops due to the higher outside temperatures. In order for your body temperature to remain constant at around 36.5°C, your body has to convert calories into heat, i.e. heat it up, so to speak. However, an increased outside temperature partly relieves it of this task.
This is how you can prevent
Boost your calorie consumption even on vacation. Let’s be honest, sunbathing on the lounger all the time also gets boring in the long run. A game of beach volleyball will make you just as tan. Go wild in the sea and try a water sport like kitesurfing. If you have enough discipline, you can go jogging on the beach in the morning even on vacation. It doesn’t have to be long, because the soft sand puts a lot of strain on your calf muscles. As a reward, you can enjoy a colorful sunrise. By the way, exercise can not only be incorporated into your holiday by the sea. Instead of using the bus or cable car, you simply walk the distances. This way you can see more of the landscape, be more flexible and save the ticket on top of that. Last but not least, the elevator in the hotel is also taboo. Better take the stairs. To maintain your water balance, it is important to drink plenty of fluids. Of course, only water and, if necessary, juice spritzers. These drinks also purify your body.
Other temptations
Although it has been proven that heat restricts calorie consumption, you are also exposed to high temperatures at home in summer. So why do you gain weight on vacation?
Calorie trap buffet
Culinary “traps” lurk even on winter vacation, Image: Razbitnov / shutterstock
How wonderful when you wake up in the morning and smell the scent of freshly baked rolls and scrambled eggs from the covered buffet from afar. And only the sight! With so much choice of colorful foods, your mouth will water. And this is exactly where the danger lurks. Everyone feels the same way as you, you just can’t decide, you’re afraid of missing out on something and you eat everything.
It’s easy to lose track. The buffet is particularly treacherous because your taste buds are always exposed to new stimuli due to the variety of foods. Surely you know the effect that after some time you are full of a single dish. This is because you get used to the taste and lose the cravings for the food. However, if you eat different things together, this process does not occur.
Not to forget the aspect that the food is always available. When the table is cleared at home, your brain is signaled that the meal is over. A feeling of satiety sets in automatically. But if you secretly know that you have the opportunity to snack, you will usually do so. How often do we reach for food out of boredom! And then usually not to fruit, but to sweet sins.
How to prevent
It’s best to set a limit beforehand on how much you want to eat. For example, you treat yourself to three plates. Be careful not to overload them, but only load up on small portions. You can orient yourself by assigning the amount that fits in one hand to a serving. In addition, every gear is known to make you slim. So it’s better to go to the buffet once again to get a second helping. If you eat slowly, you will also feel full faster. Enjoy every bite instead of gobbling it. The staff will make sure that there is enough for everyone. Before you reach out, you should also divide your plate. One half is filled with fresh fruit and vegetables. Of the remaining half, about two-thirds may be filled with protein-rich foods such as cheese and eggs. The last third also allows for a sweet jam roll or whatever you feel like. With this method, you don’t have to do without anything. Nevertheless, the fruit ensures that your stomach fills up relatively quickly and you are full. By the way, whole grain products have the same effect. They keep insulin levels constant and store energy, so you don’t get cravings during the day. Unfortunately, there are often only baked goods made from white flour abroad. Caution is also advised with fruit juices. They are considered secret sugar traps.
Extra tip: At breakfast in the hotel – if allowed – put together a healthy packed lunch for the day. This also saves money and calories.
Calorie trap restaurant
Many love not having to cook on holiday and instead indulge in culinary delights in the restaurant. And because you certainly don’t go out to eat every day, for once you don’t pay attention to the creamy sauce and the greasy steak, but order what you feel like. However, keep in mind that restaurants often serve very large portions. Last but not least, the alcohol in beer and wine also settles on the hips.
How to prevent
Set yourself a limit here as well. If you have already been to the street café at noon after a stroll through the city, you have to provide yourself with a sandwich or a quick home-cooked vegetable stir-fry in the evening. You can save calories both here and abroad if you don’t touch the bread basket. Even if it seems to take forever for the food to be served, you should definitely resist. It’s better to order a glass of water that will fill you up in advance. A soup also fills the stomach in advance. At best, it is particularly spicy, because this stimulates the metabolism. Alternatively, you can usually help yourself with the spices on the table.
The area is so close, and yet with ease it gives the feeling of being deep in the south and in another time. The French Provence. Home to fragrant, purple lavender fields, vast wine-growing areas, yolk-yellow sunflowers as far as the eye can see, full-bodied wines and one of the best cuisines in Europe. There are so many small, dreamy places in this part of France that it’s not easy to choose one. So here is a little amuse-gueule, a nice starting point, and a few tips on how we explored Provence and the south of France.
As a starting point for various exploration tours through Provence, the historic, small village of Saint-Victor-la-Coste is ideal. A small, and absolutely picturesque insider tip. It is nestled between wine-growing areas on a gentle hill, is very quiet, and yet the surrounding sights are easily accessible by car. The only restaurant in the village offers the famous moules fries every second Friday and is well attended, so a reservation is recommended.
The accommodation: Chateau St Victor La Coste, Image: Melanie Stampfl
The Chateau St.-Victor-la-Coste, from which you can overlook the rooftops of the whole village, is THE place to stay. The 500-year-old chateau, inhabited and run by a Greek-English couple, offers the opportunity to stay in an incredibly lovingly designed environment in the historic cottages, which are arranged between huge cypress trees and a Provençal garden, around a dreamlike pool. They cook here themselves, in a great communal kitchen with enough space for their own food. The owners are happy to give a guided tour of the whole chateau if they are interested, and attach great importance to personal attention to their guests, which can sometimes even escalate to a glass of wine or dinner on their terrace with an enchanting sunset.
In addition, various theme weekends, such as “The Taste of the Provence”, are offered, where you can get to know life in Provence better. They cook together, try out various recipes and visit different markets. Fully organized cycling and experience combinations are also offered. Behind the chateau, you can reach the ruins at the top of the hill via a small path, from where you will be rewarded with a priceless view over the whole region.
Of course, you will also find countless other picturesque villages, beautiful accommodations and hotels in Provence, but we personally have been captivated by the Chateau, and we can only recommend it.
Cycling in Provence
Cycling in the midst of beautiful vineyards, Picture: Melanie Stampfl
Provence is an excellent area for those who want to combine their holidays with cycling. Road cycling is France’s national sport and for those who like it challenging, here, in Provence, is also the highest and last stage of the famous “Tour de France”, the famous Mont Ventoux. At the foot of the mountain, lies the small town of Bédoin, which is perfect as a starting point for various bike tours, and with its countless small restaurants and bars provides a cozy end after a strenuous day.
Even for those who like to travel on two wheels, but prefer to take it slowly, there are plenty of opportunities to explore surrounding villages via gently rolling cycle paths, through green wine-growing regions, and under bright blue skies. In short, the dear bike, on a holiday in Provence, has its advantages.
Markets
A visit to the classic markets in Provence is always a treat for the senses, Image: Melanie Stampfl
Countless market stalls, with fresh fruit and vegetables, pickled olives, handmade soaps, small restaurants offering everything from moules fries to oysters and friendly sellers. These are the famous markets of Provence that you have to visit. One of the most famous, largest and most worth seeing is the market in Uzés, which can be reached from St.-Victor-de-la-Coste in 20 minutes by car. Uzés is a small town that turns into a lively but very pleasant place on market days (Tuesday and Saturday). Especially if you have a place where you cook yourself, you will find fresh and incredibly delicious food, from olive oil to homemade tapenades.
For vegetarians and vegans, it is not easy in France, as the country is very much characterized by meat and fish. Therefore, you are usually best off at the markets, as the Sacher are pure here and you don’t have to torture yourself through long lists of ingredients. At the market in Uzés, the freshly cooked dish with aubergines and tomatoes is highly recommended. The small booth prepares only this, and has thus perfected it, of course.
If you are interested in antiques, you should not miss the market in Ville Nueve des Avignon . From silver cutlery to antique statues to old records, you can find everything here. It’s also fun to browse through the old objects and discover long-forgotten things.
No matter where you spend your Provence vacation, the Saturday markets are obligatory, and worth a visit in every small town.
History and history
If you are interested in history and history, Provence is the right place for you. Here, it feels like there is ancient history in every stone. Whether you want to follow in the footsteps of the Pope in Avignon or visit historic buildings, chateaux and churches, Provence offers a varied programme for all history buffs.
In Avignon, the Palace of the Popes is worth a visit, which is a World Heritage Site along with the old town. So is the castle in Gordes, and of course the small town itself with its charming terracotta houses. In the end, it doesn’t matter where you go in Provence, you can find history everywhere, and the streets from village to village, from city to city are lined with fragrant lavender fields.
Gorges du Verdon
If you have a little more time on your holiday, you can take the three-hour drive to visit the Gorges du Verdon. The famous gorge, with its Caribbean blue waters, white butterflies and steep, rugged cliffs starting from Lac de Sainte-Croix, is undoubtedly worth a visit. It can be navigated by pedal boat, SUP or kayak. These can be rented everywhere at the gorge entrance. A little tip: If you visit the gorge as early in the morning as possible, you will be rewarded with solitude, silence and tranquility. From about 10:30 a.m. it gets so crowded that the whole thing is more like a slalom ride (between other boats) than a relaxed kayak tour.
If you don’t take the motorway on the way to the Gorges du Verdon, you will be rewarded with a fantastically beautiful car ride through French landscapes. A recommended stop for a break is Riez, a small town that offers a nice market and cozy restaurants.
Camargue
The pink flamingos of the Camargue, Image: pixelshop / shutterstock
If you have already worked your way to the Gorges du Verdon, you can also pay a visit to the famous Camargue, if there is time. It attracts with its white horses, black bulls and pink flamingos. In Sainte Marie de la Mer, a small but very lively coastal town, you can easily find accommodation if you are not travelling with a camper. For all those who are traveling by camper, there are plenty of campsites or WOMO pitches here, right by the sea.
Sainte Marie is a great base from which to explore the Camargue. Already on the way there, the road leads through dreamlike landscapes, and you can already admire the flamingos, whose precise flight in groups and the dance in front of them are simply breathtaking. You don’t need to book expensive tours to get closer to the birds. With a 15-minute walk, you are in the middle of bird territory. If you want to go a little deeper, pay a visit to the Ornithological Park and have the world of birds explained to you by experts.
Of course, there are also plenty of opportunities to ride the famous white horses and discover the Camargue on their backs. Here, however, it is advisable to take a good look at the riding schools beforehand and to explore yourself, so that you do not support an animal exploiting business.
Summary
Provence and the south of France are beautiful. Whether you want to discover delicious food, good wine, great bike rides, historic buildings, colorful markets or beautiful landscapes, the trip to this part of France offers all of that and more. Even for a long weekend, a trip to the herb-scented south of Europe is a good idea.
Thailand is one of the most beautiful holiday paradises in the world and attracts millions of tourists every year. Even for little money, every holidaymaker can experience Thailand from its most beautiful side. The rich culture and the breathtaking beauty of the landscape invite you to an extended discovery tour of the exotic kingdom.
Sun, beach and sea attract recreation seekers from all over the world. A holiday in paradise no longer costs a fortune today. It is worthwhile to regularly browse through the current travel offers of the big discounters. The increasing popularity of supermarket travel not only guarantees an ever-increasing selection of destinations, but also a good price-performance ratio.
A wide range of round trips and beach trips, as well as flights for individual travelers or even one or the other wine tour are offered. Discounters often offer cheap trips to Thailand .
Fascinating North
Big Buddha statue in Phuket, Image: thaisign / shutterstock
An absolute must on a trip to Thailand is a visit to Bangkok. The vibrant metropolis offers something for all the senses. There are magnificent palaces and temples to visit, historic districts to visit, spicy food to taste and the everyday hustle and bustle of the people. A canal cruise is the crowning glory of the day.
A detour to the former royal city of Ayutthaya is also worthwhile. Bangkok is the ideal starting point for a tailor-made round trip from the discounter or an individual backpack trip through the hinterland.
If you want to go further north of the country, rural regions, national parks and mountain villages await you away from the popular tourist strongholds. Golden Buddhas greet the travelers. In fantastic temples along the way, you can observe monks, observe ancient rituals or take part in colourful festivals.
Relaxation and party in the south
For many, the south of Thailand is especially worth a trip. The tropical islands and exotic beaches in the south of Thailand invite you to a wonderful beach holiday. The search for relaxation and tranquility or adventure and unique water experiences ends here. The tropical climate and the warm Gulf of Thailand create wonderful conditions for unforgettable bathing fun.
Just lazing on the beach and sizzling in the sun, making the water unsafe with a jet ski or heading for remote bays by motorboat – a day on the beach in Phuket or Koh Samui brings the necessary relaxation and then plunges into the famous nightlife of the islands. Even if you long for some seclusion, southern Thailand is the right place for you. The beaches of Ko Chang and Ko Lanta are among the longest and most beautiful in the country, so tourists rarely meet.
Italy is a destination for all the senses: lively cities, beautiful landscapes, culinary delights and, last but not least, world-famous wine. As a wine country, Italy is remarkable in several respects: Italy is one of the most important wine producers in the world and the cradle of Western European viticulture: with the Romans, wine came to Germany and many other countries. Italy is one of the few countries in the world that has a vibrant wine culture in all regions from north to south. Even today, “Bella Italia” is home to over 1,000 grape varieties.
The first part of our wine tour took us to Sicily , the Mediterranean island so rich in wine treasures. In our second part of the wine tour through Italy, the path leads us to the extreme southeast to the heel of the Italian boot: to Puglia. The region is not only known for its beautiful beaches on the Adriatic and Ionian Seas, as well as for its vibrant, culturally rich cities such as Bari and Lecce, but also for viticulture. Puglia – Puglia in Italian – is home to the largest wine-growing area in Italy next to Sicily and is said to be home to the most grape varieties in the country. Due to the hot, low-rainfall climate, mainly red varieties grow on over 100,000 hectares, such as Aglianico, Bombina Nero, Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec, Malvasia Nera, Negroamaro, Nero di Troia, Pinot Nero, Primitivo, Sangiovese and Susumaniello. Among the white wines, Malvasia Bianca, Bombino Bianco, Chardonnay and Fiano stand out. The best wines of Puglia grow on the Salento peninsula, the actual heel of the Italian boot. Thanks to the nearby sea, the nights cool down sufficiently, which is very important for viticulture, because the differences between day and night temperatures are important for maturation and affect the aromatic quality of the wine.
Puglia: Not only Primitivo
The most famous wine from Puglia is certainly the Primitivo. With its highly aromatic profile, the red grape variety is finding more and more friends in Germany and other countries – plenty of cherries, wild berries, chocolate and spicy aromas, who can resist that? The variety originally comes from Croatia. Today it is mainly grown in Puglia and in California, where it is known under the name Zinfandel. Another characteristic wine from Puglia is the Negroamaro. As the name suggests, it is a deep dark wine that differs from Primitivo in that it usually has a much spicier character and more tannins.
But it is also worthwhile to get to know the grape varieties of Puglia, which are mostly unknown in this country, which have beautiful names such as Aleatico, Bombino, Falanghina or Susumaniello. For some time, Apulia was mainly a supplier of cheap everyday qualities. Today, however, there are more and more wineries that reflect on the old Apulian and Salento winegrowing traditions and create typical regional wines in the best sense of the word with original grape varieties and a lot of passion, in which you can really taste the sun and culture of southern Italy.
Rohesia Susumaniello from Cantele, Image: Televino
With the Rohesia Susumaniello from Cantele you get a tasty insight into the world of the autochthonous grape varieties of Puglia. Or rather: into a rarity! Because the Susumaniello grape variety was revived by Cantele after it fell into oblivion. This wine is harvested by hand and gently vinified. In the nose and mouth, the dry red wine reveals a true firework of rich aromas: Amarena cherry, currants and plums meet thyme and flint notes, and a charming hint of ink can also be discerned. An all-round successful Susumaniello with an excellent price-performance ratio, which is wonderfully balanced and delights both beginners and wine nerds with its great drinking flow.
Crystal clear water, a long coastline, rich cuisine and hospitable people – all this is Croatia. The southeastern European country has long been a popular destination for people from all over the world. The beauty of Croatia lies in its versatility. Holidaymakers who prefer the classic beach holiday as well as individual holidaymakers and travellers looking for action and adventure will find what they are looking for in Croatia . If you want to get away from the hustle and bustle on land, you can quickly and easily rent a motorboat in Croatia and go out to sea – often even without a driver’s license. We have selected the most beautiful beaches in Croatia with boat rentals, so that your holiday on the Adriatic Sea is guaranteed to be unforgettable.
In Dubrovnik , not only the beach is worth seeing. At the latest with the series Game of Thrones, the medieval city in the south of Croatia has achieved world fame and that’s no wonder. The massive stone wall from the 16th century that surrounds the old town of Dubrovnik looks like something out of legends of yesteryear. Numerous historical buildings captivate history fans. What fewer people know is that Dubrovnik is also home to one of the most beautiful beaches in Croatia. The sandy beach offers a view of the city. If you want to rent a boat in Croatia , you can explore the impressive panorama of Dubrovnik from the water, without the crowds of tourists. Especially away from the high season, Banje beach is worth a visit.
Zlatni Rat, Brač
Zlatni Rat, also known as “The Golden Horn”, is one of the most popular beaches in Croatia. Zlatni Rat owes its name to its shape – the sandy beach is in the shape of a horn and juts hundreds of meters into the Adriatic Sea. Brač is an island located in the Dalmatia region and surrounded by light blue and clear sea water. Sailing out to sea by motorboat is particularly fun here, is also possible without a license and gives visitors the opportunity to explore more hidden corners of Brač. If you want to rest on the beach afterwards, you have plenty of space on the long stretch of beach and a great view.
Zrće, Pag
If you are looking for party and action during your vacation in Croatia, Pag is the right place for you. The island of Pag has established itself as a party stronghold and offers clubs and bars as well as beautiful beaches. Zrće is considered the most beautiful beach on the island. Spacious and with light sand, holidaymakers can relax here – but attention, peace and solitude is rarely the order of the day on Zrće. The next party is usually not far away.
Stiniva, Vis
The small and hidden beach Stiniva is a real insider tip. Located in a sheltered and beautiful bay, there are no crowds here, but the untouched nature of Vis convinces. Rock formations surrounding the beach are a bit reminiscent of the Portuguese Algarve. The water is crystal clear and invites you to swim. If you like diving or snorkeling, you will find a largely undisturbed underwater world here. Rent a boat and explore Stiniva from the water. The island of Vis on the Dalmatian coast is picturesque and yet not overrun by tourists. Fishing boats, remains of the old city walls and a museum that houses a bronze head of the goddess Artemis from the 4th century BC, among other things, also make the stay interesting for art and history enthusiasts. Near Vis beach, local restaurants serve fresh seafood and typical Croatian dishes. If you like to go out by boat, Vis is the right place for you.
When looking for interesting short holiday destinations, the choice does not always have to fall on large Western European metropolises such as Paris or Barcelona . Rather, rather unknown or forgotten cities can also have a very special charm away from mass tourism. One such city is Lviv in Ukraine.
Lviv is located in the west of Ukraine and from here about 90 kilometers from the Polish border. The city has around 730,000 inhabitants and consists of a total of six administrative units, the so-called city districts. Lviv is also located directly on the main European watershed, which separates the inlets to the Atlantic, the North Sea and the Baltic Sea from the inlets to the Black Sea and the Mediterranean.
The special tourist attraction of the city is not least due to the fact that different ethnicities and religions – including above all Poles, Ukrainians and Jews – lived together here for many centuries. As a result, many different cultural-political influences reached Lviv, which still shape the cityscape and the mentality of the people living there today.
The history of Lviv can be traced back to the 5th century on the basis of the oldest traces of settlement found so far. However, the documented history of the city does not begin until the 13th century. In 1256, for example, the ruler of the time, Daniel of Galicia, had a castle built on a hill above today’s city centre. Since then, Daniel of Galicia has been considered the father of the city, which is made clear, among other things, by the fact that one of the many universities and the city’s own airport were named after him.
In the following centuries, Lviv was also in the field of tension of various territorial struggles due to its geopolitical location. In the 14th century, the city first fell to the Poles, then to Austria in 1772. After the end of World War I, Lviv was the capital of the Western Ukrainian People’s Republic for a short time before it fell back to Poland . After all, Lviv belonged to the Soviet Union before the end of World War II, with the result that a large part of the Polish population was expelled from the city.
Since 1991, Lviv has been part of the independent Republic of Ukraine, although Ukrainian nationalist tendencies are very pronounced in the city. For example, the right-wing radical party Svoboda was founded here, which has held the most seats in the city and regional parliament since the elections in 2010.
Sights in Lviv
In addition to the various cultural and religious influences, Lviv can also attract streams of visitors with an old town shaped by many eras. Thus, the city was affected by the destruction of the 1. and 2nd World War and therefore still has an almost completely preserved town centre with buildings from the Baroque, Renaissance, Classicism as well as Art Nouveau and Historicism. The historic center of the city was also added to the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1998.
The Chimney Sweep Monument, Image: Ruslan Lytvyn / shutterstock
Among the most important sights is a large number of sacred buildings, including the Latin Cathedral of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary, which was built between 1360 and 1481. In addition, the City Hall, the National Opera, the Ballet Theatre and the wall of the destroyed synagogue ‘Golden Rose’ are important sights in Lviv that should definitely be visited when visiting the city.
Activities and activities
In addition to exploring the historic old town with its architectural witnesses of past eras, Lviv is also known for its numerous museums, theaters, libraries and, above all, the National Opera. A visit to the theatre or opera is a must-see for tourists here.
But museums such as the open-air museum of folk architecture and rural life in Shevchenko Grove, the Lviv Beer Museum, are also worth a visit. For those interested in art, a visit to the Lviv Picture Gallery is also a good idea. Other places to visit in Lviv include the 16th-century Kornjakt Palace, where you can walk in royal apartments, and the three-storey Potocki Palace.
After all, the largest book fair in Ukraine takes place in Lviv every year, and the Alfa Jazz Fest is a great place for music lovers.
Curiosities and trivials
In Lviv, you can not only follow in the footsteps of bygone days, but also discover some curiosities. For example, there is a beer belly monument here, which probably goes back to Lviv beer as the oldest in Ukraine. Right next to it is a sculpture of a woman holding a crown in her hand – if you want to ‘put on’ the crown for a photo motif, you have to touch the sculpture’s chest.
In addition, there is a museum in honor of the writer Leopold von Sacher-Masoch – after whom masochism was named. In front of it stands a statue of this gentleman, in whose trouser pockets you can feel his best piece.
In addition to these curious monuments, Lviv also convinces with a variety of cat cafes. But you can also dine in a completely different way in a bunker-like restaurant on Rynok Square. Thus, Lviv has something to offer for each of its visitors – architecture, history, culture, as well as unusual monuments for extraordinary photo opportunities.
