Cleveland – an underrated city by many, showcasing what the Midwest of the USA has to offer.
The Ohio city has a down-to-earth charm. Beer, sports and rock and roll mingle with cultural highlights such as the world-famous Playhouse Square and the Cleveland Orchestra. In recent decades, Cleveland has developed from an industrial center to a metropolis and has not forgotten how the chat with the neighbors works.
Sports play a big role in Cleveland. The three major professional sports teams and their stadiums are places of worship. There are the Cleveland Browns, who play in the NFL, the Cleveland Cavaliers basketball team, and the Cleveland Indians, the city’s baseball team. When staying in Cleveland, you should not miss a visit to a game. You can feel how the city stands behind its teams and the sports fever is contagious.
And what goes better with a visit to the stadium than a cold beer? The inhabitants of Cleveland are very proud of their brewing skills. With a stamp book you can go through the city and try a beer at every tap. Sports and beer, the down-to-earthness of the Midwest has not been lost in Cleveland, despite the great growth, and you can feel that in the togetherness of the people.
From Rock & Roll to Classical Music
View of the Cleveland skyline, Image: f11photo / shutterstock
If you prefer music instead of sports, you will also get a taste for it in Cleveland. The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame features everything from Elvis to the Beatles to Jimi Hendrix. In addition to exhibitions on certain artists, the roots of rock and roll are also told. The Hall of Fame is a must for all fans of the music genre of the 80s.
From rock and roll it goes into classical music. The Cleveland Orchestra is one of the five largest symphony orchestras in the United States. The musicians are treated like local celebrities in the city. The orchestra is currently on display at the Masonic Auditorium and Severance Hall.
Experience theater culture in Cleveland
The Terminal Tower, Image: Kenneth Sponsler / shutterstock
Sports and music, what is still missing? Theatre, of course. In the Gateaway District is the so-called Playhouse Square. Here, one big theater follows the next. Playhouse Square in Cleveland is the second largest theater district in the country after Broadway in New York . Five major theaters play over 300 different shows. Brightly lit in the evening, the district also offers the most popular restaurants and bars in the city.
A little piece of Italy
A special feature of Cleveland is the well-known Little Italy district. It is very suitable if you want to go out in the evening. The many restaurants and bars of Italian gastronomy range wines and delicacies from Italy. On the streets there are almost exclusively shops selling goods from Italian manufacturers. The designed house facades and murals also contribute to the Italian flair.
The district also has a lot to offer historically. The Church of the Holy Rosary was built around 1905 and is always worth a visit. At the same time, the Alta House was built, which is located in the neighborhood. It belongs to the Italian community and should definitely be visited.
Vancouver is one of the most beautiful cities in the world. This is mainly due to the fantastic location between the sea and the mountains. Modern skyscrapers, countless parks, elegant shopping streets, restaurants, cafés, bars and well-known cultural sights are close together in the centre of Vancouver and invite visitors to varied discovery tours. A vibrant metropolis that you should have seen once in your life.
Full moon over Stanley Park, Image: Pictureguy / shutterstock
It’s not uncommon for Vancouvers to see whales swimming in the ocean in the morning, eat in hip restaurants, and start the weekend on Fridays with a mountain hike or skiing.
The city offers a high recreational value, which Canadians appreciate very much. 2.4 million people live in the city on the Pacific. This makes it one of the largest in western Canada. Every year, hundreds of thousands of visitors travel to Vancouver to explore the city’s charms. Many sights make your stay in the big city metropolis eventful.
In short: Anyone who visits Vancouver falls head over heels in love with the city and is enchanted by its beauty. The large city centre alone inspires with very different districts such as the maritime harbour district of Gastown, the beach of the West End or the cosmopolitan Yaletown.
In addition, the interesting, diverse cultural landscape of the city, in the heart of the state of British Columbia, is impressive. The UBC Museum of Anthropology provides visitors with vivid information about the life and history of the First Nations, Canada’s indigenous peoples. Modern galleries, on the other hand, represent the culture of the present. Robson Square is home to international fashion stores and large shopping arcades selling the trends of tomorrow. Chinatown is the heart of an Asian city.
The Capilano Suspension Bridge, Image: Yingna Cai / shutterstock
There are tens of thousands of small shops and delicious restaurants here. A look at the city’s calendar of events makes it clear that night owls also get their money’s worth here. Popular music festivals, art exhibitions and other event highlights take place regularly. Tourists really realize Vancouver’s unique location from a bird’s eye view: huge fjords, large forests, and the white peaks of the Coast Mountains surround Vancouver and Stanley Park.
Vancouver City Garden
Canada’s largest urban park is located in the center of the city, on a 400-hectare peninsula. Stanley Park is also known as Vancouver’s green lung, as over 500,000 trees grow high into the sky here.
View of Science World, Image: SvetlanaSF / shutterstock
Inconceivable! The park is known among day-trippers for the totem poles – carvings of the indigenous people that tell interesting stories from ancient times. In addition, a large network of cycle paths and walking paths runs through the park. You will pass lovingly designed rose gardens, children’s playgrounds and romantic places to relax. The Stadtgarten is surrounded by the 9 km long waterfront promenade – Seawall.
If you cross it, you stand on the beach and have an indescribable view of the Pacific Ocean and the big city behind you. The waterfront promenade is perfect for a morning jog or for relaxed bike rides. Especially in good weather, there is an unforgettable view of the skyline. Families with young children should plan a visit to the Vancouver Aquarium. It is located in the middle of the peninsula and is home to around 70,000 species of fish.
Foodlover: Discover Vancouver’s culinary delights
On the other hand, if you want to get to know the country’s cuisine, you should visit the Granville Island Public Market. Here you will find a large selection of typical local specialties, freshly caught fish and sea bulls as well as regional delicacies. Book a guided tour with a local guide and discover delicacies from all over the world together.
Lions Gate Bridge, Image: LeonWang / shutterstock
Tastings included! Another culinary treat that is part of any Vancouver vacation is a visit to the Honey Dip Donut at Lee’s. Here you can find by far the best donuts in town. A souvenir that should not be missing in any suitcase is of course the popular Canadian maple syrup. It can be bought everywhere in the city. So you can revive holiday memories at home while enjoying freshly baked pancakes.
Coast Mountains – a local recreation area at the gates of the big city
The Canadian coastal mountains, just outside the city, are an 85-million-year-old mountain range. The Coast Mountains stretch along the Pacific coast. The highest elevation is Mount Waddington, which is over 4000 meters high.
The mountains are one of the most diverse local recreation areas for Vancouvians. Many people spend their free time here. 342 kilometres of slopes with perfect snow conditions attract city dwellers to the mountains in winter. In the Coast Mountains alone, there are 48 ski lifts in the immediate vicinity of the city. In addition, there are countless water and leisure parks for families with children in the valley. Of course, the area is also ideal for extensive discovery tours into the Canadian wilderness. There are hikes with a guide to particularly beautiful places.
Tip: If you want to experience Vancouver’s breathtaking natural landscape from above, you should book a sightseeing flight on a seaplane. Acrophobia? Then visit the 4D simulator and take a virtual “Fly Over Canada Tour”. A unique experience paired with beautiful nature shots and special effects.
Final tips for a trip to Canada
View of the snowy mountains of Vancouver, Image: karamysh / shutterstock
Vancouver is worth a visit at any time of the year! In spring, the city shines in a delicate shade of pink, because then the blossoms of the cherry trees bloom and everywhere in the city it smells wonderfully sweet and flowery. Summer lures people out into nature. Nearby national parks offer outdoor enthusiasts a wide variety of leisure activities.
In autumn, the countless trees of Stanley Park shine in every conceivable hue. A unique spectacle! Winter is going to be cozy. Then the city is transformed into a Christmas winter wonderland and the snow attracts ski bunnies to the slopes. For a holiday in Vancouver, a minimum stay of 3 to 4 nights is recommended.
Image: mffoto / shutterstock
The city has so much to offer and you can plan great follow-up tours from Vancouver, such as a round trip through British Columbia or a ski holiday in Whistler – one of the most popular winter sports resorts in the country. One thing you should not forget during your holiday: Allow yourself enough time to enjoy and let the beautiful place work its magic on you with a coffee or Canadian delicacies. Soak up the special atmosphere of the city and experience first-hand why Vancouver is one of the most livable metropolises on earth. This love will not pass so quickly!
Geneva is a city where the world meets. The metropolis in French-speaking Switzerland is the headquarters of the United Nations, the Humanitarian Red Cross and calls itself the “Capital of Peace”. It is also a city with an unusually high density of sports cars and high-end boutiques. For travellers, Geneva is mainly about its museums and mountains.
The Geneva / Lausanne metropolitan region has about 1.2 million inhabitants. The city of Geneva is located in a bay on Lake Geneva, from which the Rhône River flows. The city is surrounded by the Jura Mountains and Mont Blanc.
Lake Geneva (or Lac Léman), Image: Samuel Borges Photography / shutterstock
There are many museums in Geneva. The city is not only known for the United Nations and banks, but also for the watches. In the Plainpalais district is the “Temple of the Watchmaker”, the Patek Philippe Museum of the same name. It contains the best movements of the local watchmakers. The Mamco is the largest Swiss museum for modern and contemporary art. The exhibitions at Mamco are world-famous.
Not far away is the Museum of Ethnology (MEG) with its ethnological collection, which includes 80,000 objects and 300,000 books. Apart from that, there are several natural science museums, such as the Musée d’histoire des sciences, the Microcosm or the Geneva Museum of Natural History.
Shopping in Geneva
The headquarters of the United Nations, Image: nexus 7 / shutterstock
Most of the high-end boutiques can be found in the area around the Rue du Rhône. If the prices here are too high for you, you can also look out for the many individual shops. This is especially good in the artists’ village of Carouge, the “Greenwich Village” of Geneva, or in the old town with its numerous alleys, boutiques, shops and galleries. The first shopping address was to be the Globus department store.
Attractions in Geneva
The city’s landmark is the Jet d’eau, a jet of water that shoots 500 liters of water at a height of 140 meters. Especially from the Bains des Pâquis you have a good view of the Jet d’eau. In summer, the city meets here for swimming and in winter for fondue in the sauna. In the old town, travelers will find the Place du Bourg de Four and the Cathedral of St. Pierre.
The Parc des Bastions is a green idyll in the middle of the city. The Reformation Monument is also located here within the city walls. In front of the concert pavilion, you can play chess free of charge with large pieces. In winter, an ice rink is built here. The headquarters of the United Nations is located on Avenue-de-la-Paix. For those interested in history, a visit to the former fortification, Fort L’Écluse, is a good idea. As far as religious buildings are concerned, there is also the Châtillon-Michaille, the Basilique Notre-Dame de Genève and the Russian Orthodox Church of Geneva.
Cafés and restaurants
Café de la Paix is one of the oldest restaurants in the city and mainly offers a mix of Italian-French dishes. However, the title of the oldest restaurant in Geneva is claimed by the Café du Soleil. Here you will find the best fondue in Switzerland and other cheese specialties. The Café de la Gare serves typical Parisian brasserie dishes such as veal kidneys, sausage, black pudding, beef bourgignon and Swiss dishes. Chez Boubier, on the other hand, is famous for its unique butter.
Around Geneva
Not only the city itself has a lot to offer. Mont Salève can only be reached within a few minutes from the city center by taking the cable car. Depending on the season, it is suitable for paragliding or skiing. Geneva’s vineyards are particularly suitable for day hikes, for example between Lake Geneva and the Arve River. Near Lausanne are the terraced vineyards of Lavaux. There are also a few castles in the area, such as the Château de Voltaire and the Château de Coppet.
A vacation in the Dominican Republic is a time-out for body and soul. Fantastic sandy beaches with crystal clear water, breathtaking sunsets, unique nature and the pure joie de vivre of the Dominicans – what more could you want?
The island state of the Lesser Antilles in the eastern Caribbean offers everything you need for a varied holiday. Below you will find our top 5 tips of the most beautiful destinations in the Dominican Republic that you should definitely have seen during your stay.
The most beautiful destinations of the Dominican Republic:
Samaná
Beaches on Samana, Image: Rafael Martin-Gaitero / shutterstock
To the northeast is the Samaná peninsula. The region is best known for its island of Cayo Levantado, also known as Bacardi Island thanks to the commercial filmed there. A perfect place to enjoy the powdery white beach and unspoiled nature. The almost 1000 km2 peninsula is crisscrossed by a mountain range with dense vegetation and invites you to hike.
Larger places to see in Samaná are Las Terrenas and the capital of the province, Santa Bárbara. Here you can still find the original and authentic Dominican Republic. A trip to the El Limón waterfall is also worthwhile. For action seekers, the ziplines are certainly interesting. Here you race through the middle of nature and get a fast-paced and impressive overview of Samaná.
In the Samaná region, there is also the possibility of observing humpback whales up close during the winter period, which are in this region for mating and giving birth to their cubs.
Isla Saona
Catuano on Saona, Image: MaRap / shutterstock
In the southeast you will find the small island of Saona. Popular here are the excursions by catamaran to this remote island. It can also be reached by ferry or boat from La Romana, 40 km away. On the island you will find various natural swimming pools in the form of sandbanks off the coast.
The island is a paradise for snorkeling fans thanks to its coral reefs and colorful underwater world. In addition, a turtle conservation project can be visited. Saona Island is also known for its Parque Nacional del Este National Park, with a wide variety of birds and rare bird species. Also worth seeing is the small village of Mano Juan, consisting of various pastel-colored wooden houses.
Santo Domingo
Santo Domingo, Image: Maciej Czekajewski / shutterstock
In addition to beaches, national parks and jungles, the Dominican Republic also offers a big city feeling in the capital Santo Domingo, the oldest city built by Europeans in the New World. In the enchanting historic old town of the metropolis with almost three million inhabitants, you will find the main artery Calle el Conde, one of the most beautiful shopping streets, which ends at the monument of Christopher Columbus.
In general, you will find a mixture of old architecture and modernity. Palaces such as the Columbus Palace and fortresses such as Fortaleza Ozama, but also the oldest cathedral in America, Santa Maria la Menor, bear witness to the colonial era. In the middle of the city you can enjoy peace and quiet in the cave lake park Los Tres Ojos. On the beach promenade Avenida George Washington you can taste the real traditional food, dance the night away to Dominican music and drink a glass of mamajuana (a mixture of red wine, brown rum and honey).
Puerto Plata
View of Puerto Plata, Image: jvphoto.ca / shutterstock
A popular destination both because of the more than 100 km of sandy beaches in the province and because of the provincial capital of the same name. In the capital you will find many sights such as the fortress of San Felipe, various Victorian buildings, the Amber Museum and a variety of colorful Caribbean houses.
In addition to a walk through the city centre, a ride on the cable car to the summit of the local mountain Pico Isabel de Torres is also worthwhile. Here you will find a botanical garden and a replica of the famous Christ the Redeemer statue of Rio de Janeiro. For lovers of good rum, a visit to the Brugal rum factory is also worthwhile. About 30 km from the gates of the 130,000-inhabitant city of Puerto Plata are also the 27 waterfalls on the Damajagua River. Certainly a highlight for all lovers of thrills. Here you can swim, slide and climb.
Playa Rincón
Playa Rincon, Image: Jakob Fischer / shutterstock
This beach has been named one of the ten most beautiful beaches in the world by several magazines. It is located near the fishing village of Las Galeras on the Samaná peninsula. A three-kilometre-long natural beach with crystal clear waters, at the end of which the freshwater river Caño Frio flows into the sea. Often you are even lucky enough to have this section of beach almost to yourself.
There is so much more to discover and we could have included many more places in the list of the most beautiful destinations in the Dominican Republic, so that you usually fall for the magic of the island and visit it more than once.
In terms of cultural highlights, Potsdam is in no way inferior to its big neighbor Berlin in the northeast. The variety of sights is perfect for a short trip. In any case, the historical architecture deserves special attention. But art lovers also get their money’s worth. The culinary delicacies are guaranteed to make the heart beat faster. Here is a small overview of what there is to experience.
The park of Sanssouci Palace, Image: Mike Mareen / shutterstock
Potsdam is home to the Prussian Empire. Pure luxury reigns here! Today, UNESCO has declared the 150 buildings and 500 hectares of park that have been preserved a World Heritage Site. A short holiday to the capital of Brandenburg is like a journey into the past. The old town in particular is a real feast for the eyes.
The buildings that can be found on the Old Market Square and some of which have been restored date back to the time of Frederick the Great. The small Brandenburg Gate can also be visited in any case. If, on the other hand, you prefer modern art, Potsdam is just as right for you. Poetry, music, as well as various exhibitions provide variety. There is guaranteed to be no boredom. There is something for everyone here.
Especially the cultural location Waschhaus should not be forgotten. Concerts and dance are made for both young and old. A little tip: Is that not enough? The big neighbor Berlin is right nearby! Here the city trip can continue immediately.
Potsdam: Romantic castles and dreamy gardens
The University of Potsdam, Image: Lugiaz / shutterstock
Right in the heart of Potsdam is the Sanssouci Park. On an area of a total of 300 hectares, the kings used to stroll. 350 years ago, the castle still belonged to Frederick II, who was also colloquially known as Alter Fritz. The wonderful terraces date back to his time. All in all, the view falls on more than two centuries of true architectural art.
The foot of the vineyard opens up a view of the most famous rococo building in Germany . However, the true splendour only becomes apparent when you climb the stairs completely. Hard to believe! The construction took just six years. In loving detail, more than 400 statues are attached to the magnificent façade, which come from the world of the gods of ancient Greece. Amazement is already pre-programmed! Pomp and splendour are guaranteed not to be neglected!
Potsdam: Don’t miss it
Under no circumstances should the Castle Night be missed! Once a year, the park stays open until after midnight. A true firework of impressive lights shines. Over a hundred artists amaze the audience. A true highlight of superlatives. However, the tickets must be booked early. Order in advance guaranteed! Otherwise, admission will remain closed with absolute probability.
Potsdam: All natural
The Dutch Quarter, Image: D.Bond / shutterstock
If you prefer it a little quieter, the New Garden is a good choice. A real contrast to the park of Sanssouci. Here you can still find true nature. Free and wild trees adorn the lushly overgrown area. Nothing is guaranteed to be trimmed. The idea originally goes back to Frederick William II. A true masterpiece of architecture opens up. The orangery created there is really impressive. The Marble Palace and Cecilienhof Palace are also worth a visit in any case.
Potsdam: For true art lovers
Park Sanssouci, Image: Mike Mareen/shutterstock
Potsdam is guaranteed to have a lot to offer. In the Barberini Museum, true connoisseurs of contemporary art will get their money’s worth. The patron and benefactor Hasso Plattner presents his unique collection. One focus is on the former works of the GDR, among other things. The time after 1989 can also be found here. Well-known representatives such as Rodin, Renoir, Monet, Liebermann and Kandinsky can be mentioned at this point. In any case, the original will of course be presented.
Potsdam: This is where the film starts
The Filmpark Babelberg offers fun and entertainment for the whole family. Spectacular stunts are revealed on stage. Fascinating backdrops take you into the world of film and television. This is the filming location of many famous classics, such as Fritz Lang’s “Metropolis”. But the real Hollywood is also at home here. So don’t miss it!
Potsdam: Quickly to Holland
The historic center of Potsdam, Image: immodium / shutterstock
Unique galleries, cozy bars and cafés as well as a variety of small shops invite you to stroll. This small quarter, which stands out from the rest of the city in every respect due to its special construction, was built by Frederick William I in the middle of the 18th century for craftsmen who had arrived from Holland. There should be a piece of home in a foreign country.
Potsdam: Quickly to Russia
But the Russian compatriots will not miss out in Potsdam either. The colony of Alexandrowia was built by the Prussian King Frederick William III in 1826 for the last twelve singers of a soldiers’ choir. The associated history is revealed in the museum located there. Afterwards, there will be a little refreshment in the restaurant.
If you were to ask the sun about one of its favourite destinations for a successful holiday, it wouldn’t have to think twice: “Djerba.” More than 300 days a year, she takes time for the largest island in North Africa to pamper it with its warm rays. She knows every corner and every sight of the 514 square kilometre island on the east coast of Tunisia, which is a lively and varied home for around 164,000 inhabitants. You would have to be a sun or a vacationer.
The flight from Germany to a dream vacation takes about three hours. Already on the way, you dream of friendly and child-loving Tunisians, look forward to their open and always friendly hospitality and to the simple but holiday-intensive island life.
View of the capital Houmt Souk, IMAGE: Authentic travel/shutterstock
Whether Houmt-Souk, the lively island capital, or just about any other place on Djerba – everywhere holidaymakers meet donkey carts, cars, cyclists or pedestrians on the shopping route to the market. Typical are women who carry their purchases home in a basket on their heads.
If Berlin is always worth a visit, Houmt-Souk and its old town certainly are. The bazaar is particularly recommended, although the offers of the shops in narrow, partly covered alleys are almost exclusively tailored to tourists: carpets, clothes, shoes, brass and silver art as well as leather goods determine the picture in the environment of eloquent traders. In general, the largest city in Djerba is a mixture of the Thousand and One Nights and European-modern echoes with typical oriental influences.
Djerba – The will to discover is in demand
Snow-white houses, ornate wooden doors and blue shutters are sure to be remembered as long as olive groves on the way to the port city of El May. Shortly before, in Midoun, it is worth stopping to see the underground oil mill there. Speaking of watching. While there are over 100 mosques on the island, most remain off-limits to vacationers. Better is a detour to the pottery village of Guellala, beautifully laid out on a hill. Souvenir holidaymakers will find, for example, small amphorae here, in which rainwater used to be collected.
Water, beach and pirate games
Djerba is the island for package tourists and the tourist strongholds on the east coast of the island are perfectly adapted to them. The northeastern coastal strip makes children’s eyes shine and makes the hearts of adults beat faster. This is due to the fine sandy and well-kept sandy beaches, which invite you to sunbathe as well as to build sandcastles. A jump into the crystal-clear water of the Mediterranean promises to cool off. Keyword water. Above and below the water’s surface, Djerba is bursting with sports facilities: diving, 9-hole golf, horseback riding, quad and jeep tours, surfing or sailing… or pirate trips in ancient boats with the destination of the six-kilometre-long Flamingo Peninsula.
As if that were all there is to it…
“What have you looked at in Djerba?” holidaymakers at home are often asked. And they are already starting to report. Via the Roman dam, which connects the island with the mainland and supplies it with fresh water. About the picturesque ruins of the fortress near El Kantara, which they could only reach with all-terrain cars and only at low tide. Or a visit to the Bordj-el-Kebir fortress in Houmt Souk.
They tell of the street art project in the village of Erriadh, very close to Djerbahood, of its 150 artists and 250 murals. Of palm and pomegranate trees, of the sea and more, such as the great climate, their unforgettable beach holiday. Or from the trip to the market in Midoun, peppered with bazaar shops and modern shops where haggling is not allowed for once. And they don’t forget the town of Meninx on the south coast, the ancient city founded by the Phoenicians. Part of the headland hides its face below sea level.
Djerba for fine tasting palates
Typical bazaar on Djerba, Image: BTWImages / shuterstock
Red sauces and especially harissa are encountered by hungry people on the island at every turn. The cuisine is shaped by numerous cultures. The Greeks contribute wine and olives. The French brought their baguette recipes to the island, the Arabs their coffee and spices such as turmeric, cumin, ginger or saffron. Under Ottoman influence, aubergines and pies are served and the dough “brik” or its sweet pastries are considered sought-after desserts. And who doesn’t know it, the national dish couscous from Berber origin.
Fresh fish dishes are neglected due to their high prices. In restaurants, however, fish does not have to be dispensed with, they are often served grilled. Favorites include sea bream, sea bass and grouper.
Again and again, lamb, less mutton, chicken or beef appear on the menus. And what about pig offers? The animals are considered unclean in Islamic countries, are usually reserved for foreign guests and are imported especially for this purpose.
In small rustic restaurants, the serving of alcohol is restricted, and again it is mostly tourists who order a Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot. The grape varieties arrive in Djerba from France , where they are cultivated and finally find their way into the glasses as dry wines.
As is well known, hunger comes with food. The stomach is opened by appetizers, usually filled with fish or meat, they are called “doigts de Fatma”. And for dessert, there is usually something sweet, along with green tea, mint, pistachios or almonds. Its name: “thé à la menthe”. However, cheese is and remains a matter of luck.
Result:
The sun has made a good choice with Djerba. And tourists from all over the world are likely to agree with her. This was impressively demonstrated by around 8.3 million Djerba guests last year. This means that the holiday island is back on the big tourist stage. In the spirit of 1001 Nights, of sun, palm trees and sea.
Boston is the cosmopolitan center of technology and finance, education, art and culture, sports, and major historical highlights on the northeastern American coast.
The largest city in New England and the capital of the US state of Massachusetts attracts millions of tourists from all over the world with its overwhelming, historic attractions. Boston enchants its residents and visitors every day anew with its indescribable charm and knows how to seduce its guests with its impulsive dynamics and impressive city highlights.
The skyline of Boston at night, Image: RomanSlavik.com / shutterstock
The graceful and at the same time dignified city on Massachusetts Bay has over 620,000 inhabitants, in the metropolitan region there are more than 4,552,000 inhabitants, which give this dynamic city its vibrant, multicultural character. The vibrant city enchants with its youthful charm, as the metropolis is largely determined by the countless students who study at Boston’s renowned universities and college institutions. Harvard and MIT universities are leading elite schools and a real magnet for ambitious students and the international academic scene.
Attractions in Boston
The city is a place steeped in history: The Boston Tea Party began the American War of Independence on Boston Harbor in December 1773.
The Massachusetts State House, Image: Sean Pavone / shutterstock
The well-known Boston Freedom Trail, the approximately 4 km long “Path of Freedom”, which leads past 16 important attractions and sites of US history, is a reminder of this. The Freedom Trail begins in the city’s oldest public park Boston Common (1634) and includes such fabulous hotspots as the Massachusetts StateHouse (1789), the RobertGould Shaw Memorial, The Park St. Church, King’s Chapel, Boston Latin School, the Old South Meeting House, where questions and essential aspects of independence were discussed for the first time.
The Old Corner Bookstore, one of Boston’s oldest brick buildings, is famous for the numerous meetings of literary luminaries such as Harriet-Beecher Stowe, Nathanael Hawthorn, Charles Dickerson and Ralph Waldo Emerson. One of the most outstanding stations on the Freedom Trail is the Old State House (1713), where the Declaration of Independence in Boston was read out for the first time, which is still recited every year on July 4 from the “Old State House”.
The “Cradle of Freedom” Faneuil Hall (1742) is located near the waterfront and is now not only an important part of Boston’s Freedom Trail, but also a dynamic marketplace.
Boston Harbor, Image: Marcio José Bastos Silva / shutterstock
Back Bay in southwest Boston was considered the most elegant district during its absolute heyday. In the 19th century, some of the world’s hottest architects built what is probably the most imposing residential district of the city on the artificially created Back Bay with noble and aesthetic buildings in the Romanesque and Victorian styles. It was once home to the nation’s wealthiest families, famous merchants, influential politicians, and wealthy industrialists. Some of the stately estates are now open to the public and make every visitor’s heart beat faster with their exclusive ballrooms, richly decorated dining rooms and extensive gardens and parks.
Boston is the city that has the right concept for every visitor. The world-famous, oldest baseball stadium in the USA, Fenway Park, has been the home stadium of the Red Sox since 1912. The impressive baseball stadium is a unique highlight for any baseball-loving Boston visitor, especially when the Boston Red Sox give their best in a home game. The Fenway Park Stadium experience has retained its original appeal and dynamism of the old days and is definitely not to be missed.
Highlights and special events
Image: DMS Foto / shutterstock
The smart city of fantastic residential districts has numerous surprises in store for visitors to Boston. Winter guests should not miss ice skating on the “Frog Pond” on Boston Common – a wonderful experience! The “Memorial Day Garden of Flags” is definitely one of the very special, rousing events in Boston Common! A visit to the Public Garden, the first botanical garden in the Americas, is an attractive attraction for young and old all year round due to its numerous monuments, rich, luxuriantly flowering and unusual plants and the magnificent lake. The unique swan boats, with which you can really unwind on the lake, are particularly enthusiastic.
Those lucky enough to visit Boston for Mother’s Day will find a lot of fun and joy at the surprising Duckling Day Parade ! Thousands of children march through the public park on this day, dressed as one of the many main characters from the book “Make way for the ducklings”. A charming spectacle!
View from Piers Park, Image: f11photo / shutterstock
Beacon Hill is one of Boston’s most traditional neighborhoods. With its inviting, picturesque cobblestone alleys, federally styled terraced houses, and nostalgic gas lanterns along the streets, the historic site offers visitors a piece of legendary history in an authentic atmosphere. Part of it is Acorn Street, probably the most photographed street in Boston. Built in 1807, the Charles Street Meeting House is a historic church that served the anti-slavery movement before the Civil War. For a few hours of relaxation and recreation in a sensationally beautiful park, the Charles River Esplanade is simply the perfect place. The fabulous landscape park is also the venue for concerts and rowing boat competitions.
Cobblestone street in Beacon Hill, Image: cdrin / shutterstock
Every year on Patriots Day in April, the Boston Marathon is held, with the finish line in Back Bay. More than 20,000 marathon enthusiasts from all over the world take part in this important marathon event.
Gastronomy and shopping
After a long walk in Boston’s Historic Downtown, traditional, historic taverns and original Irish pubs await their guests with a wide, completely appealing menu variety. The exclusive restaurants in Beacon Hill are an insider tip. Here, visitors can enjoy excellent local specialties and international culinary highlights in charming restaurants.
Boston is a cosmopolitan city with a modern face and has a variety of large shopping malls, boutiques and outlets.
Boston: Optimal time to visit
Image: Galiptynutz / shutterstock
Due to its immediate location on the northeast coast to the Atlantic Ocean, Boston is strongly influenced by cool air currents and moisture supply. The average summer temperatures are between 24°C and 27°C, which drop to 22°C to 17°C in autumn. In June, July and August, an average of 8 to 9 hours of sunshine can be expected daily, while it rains on about 8 days. It gets particularly cold in the winter months of December, January and February, with average temperatures around -5°C to -7°C. The perfect time to travel for an extensive Boston city trip is between late April and early November, when weather conditions are ideal for exploring Boston and its many wonderful highlights.
The archipelago of the Balearic Islands, and it wants to be understood as such, is made up of the five islands of Mallorca, Menorca, Ibiza, Formentera and Cabrera . The “Isla Cabrera” is mainly to be seen as a nature reserve, which can be visited but not inhabited. Originally, the entire archipelago was part of the Spanish and Portuguese mainland.
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Only gradually, starting with today’s Mallorca, did a blasting take place, which caused the land masses to drift apart. The distance between today’s islands and the Spanish mainland is between 90 and 200 kilometres. Whichever island you want to plan your holiday on. Arriving by ferry, for example from Valencia or Barcelona, but also from the air is a spectacle that is hard to escape.
Poppy fields in Sineu, Image: vulcano / shutterstock
Starting from the late 80s, until the 21st century, Mallorca was equated with Ballermann and cheap tourists. An image that unfortunately caused all too much damage to the image and the actual beauty that was lost in the process.
An island that has such a fascinating beauty and its very own characteristics really does not deserve to be lost in cheap tourism. Now the Mallorcan government has set out to put an end to the invasions from Germany and England. With success. Quality tourism is now written on the Balearic flags.
Step by step, an island is reinventing itself that wants to be seen and treated as a natural treasure. Starting with the Tramuntana Mountains, the Isla Cabrera, one of the richest flora and fauna reservoirs in the Mediterranean, to the Isla Dragonera. Late but still they realized that Mallorca is much more than just an island where parties can be celebrated. We can look forward to the future.
Menorca – the little sister
Image: Kite_rin / shutterstock
Somewhat unjustly, Menorca is given this nickname. In fact, it is in no way inferior to its “big sister” in terms of natural beauty and, above all, tranquillity. Wonderful places await you on this island north of Mallorca.
What is the capital Palma in Mallorca is Mao in Menorca. Menorca is more tranquil and quiet. Recreation seekers have already chosen Menorca this island before the Ballermann epidemic. Which is not entirely incomprehensible. In addition to its very own quieter characteristics, this island offers a tranquillity that attracts especially, but not only, older people to the island. Many of them forever.
Apart from that, this island also has pronounced mountain ridges, which are located in the north and are used as a retreat, especially in the hot summer. Menorca has really managed to defend itself against the invasion that escalates on the neighboring island of Mallorca and a little later Ibiza. And it did her good. The island is still one of those selected holiday destinations that offers one thing above all. Peace and relaxation, away from tourist crowds.
Ibiza
Cala d’Hort, Image: Alex Tihonovs / shutterstock
For a long time, Ibiza was in no way inferior to Mallorca in its claim to be the leading party island in the Mediterranean. Admittedly, it was thought, Mallorca had to be bought off in this respect. If, even in a somewhat more noble way, depending on the location. So they knew how to attract one or the other celebrity to the island. But here, too, the island thanks it, the party plaster is crumbling. Here, too, they intend to turn the tide. They focus more on the natural advantages of the island, do everything they can to bring the island back into a more balanced state of relaxation and focus more on quality tourism. Miracles don’t happen overnight here either, but they do. The nature of the island with its beautiful bays and mountain slopes behind it is visibly recovering. New buildings are being put a stop to and the country’s typical construction methods are being used. Little by little, the two islands of Mallorca and Ibiza are succeeding in shedding their respective stamped images and reinventing themselves.
Formentera
Turquoise blue water at Cala Saona beach, Image: D.Bond / shutterstock
This second smallest island, which together with Ibiza belongs to the archipelago of the Pityusic Islands , has always led a slight shadowy existence. It certainly didn’t hurt her. The island, located just under 9 kilometers south of Ibiza , enjoyed the fact that Ibiza was so close and the hustle and bustle of celebrities and those who would like to be celebrities did not reach their island. Even today, Formentera is one of the most pristine islands. It has retained what the governments of Mallorca and Ibiza still have to work on. Natural beauty that needs nothing more than simply to be lived and experienced with pleasure.
The cuisine and food in Malaysia unmistakably and characteristically reflects the ethnic diversity of the Southeast Asian country. The most important historical and current culinary influences come from the neighboring countries of China, Thailand, India and especially Sumatra.
In addition, there are more or less strong elements, recipes and ingredients from Portuguese, Dutch and British cuisine due to colonial history. Malaysia is known worldwide among chefs as a stop on the legendary, over 5,000-year-old “Spice Road”, through which the first exotic spices such as cardamom, turmeric, ginger, pepper and cinnamon once came to Europe.
Regionally, Malaysian cuisine is particularly similar to that in geographically neighboring Brunei and Singapore and has taste similarities with the Philippines. The popular meat dishes “Satay” (grilled meat on bamboo skewers), “Rendang” (curry) and the thick chili spice sauce “Sambal” are shared with Indonesia>Indonesia . A regional speciality from eastern Malaysia that is rather unusual for some Europeans are the raw, fried, grilled or sautéed larvae of the beetle Rhynchophorus ferrugineus (“sago worm”), which lives on sago palms and is called “butod” or “ulat mulong”.
Without rice, coconut and peanuts, almost no dish in Malaysia is served
Indispensable ingredients of Malaysian cuisine are, of course, rice (“Nasi”), which is always present on the table throughout Asia, the spicy shrimp paste “Belacan”, the spice paste “Rempah” with garlic, ginger and onions, and coconut (“Kelapa”), whose oil, milk, meat and water as well as peels are often used.
Soy sauce (“Masak Kicap”), turmeric (“Kunyit”), the vanilla-scented leaves of the screw palm (“Pandane”) and lemongrass (“Serai”) are just as commonly used as dried anchovies (“Ikan Bilis”), tamarinds (“Asam Jawa”) and peanuts and kukui nuts (“Buah Keras”). These ingredients are also part of typical Malaysian rice dishes such as “Nasi Himpit” in banana leaves, “Nasi dagang” with coconut milk, “Nasi kandar” with curry, “Nasi kerabu” with fish or chicken, “Nasi paprik” with chili, “Nasi ulam” with lemongrass and the national dish “Nasi Lemak” (rice fat), which is particularly popular for breakfast, with coconut milk, sambal, pepper, shrimp paste, cucumber slices as well as roasted peanuts and dried anchovies.
Enjoy the start of the day sweet or savoury
Roti Bakar, the traditional toast in Malaysia, Image: Riki Risnandar PhotoPro / shutterstock
Equally popular is the almost tasteless rice porridge “Congee”, which is flavored with bamboo shoots, fish or meat, eggs, peanuts as well as shallots and soy sauce, depending on taste. A legacy of the English colonial era in the morning is toast (“Roti Bakar”) with coconut jam (“kaya”), egg, butter and sugar, usually served with tea or coffee (“kopi”).
Also widely used as breakfast are the filled dumplings “Baozi” or “Dim Sum” from China, the always freshly baked dough flatbreads “Roti” with curry, the sandwich “Murtabak” with lamb, garlic, egg and onions or chocolate and nuts as well as bean cake (“Idli”) with chutney, the pancakes “Dosa” and the semolina porridge “Upma”, which is common in South India. As in all of Southeast Asia, nutritious soups (“laksa”) with noodles made from rice, starch or wheat are popular in Malaysia early in the day.
Locals and visitors meet at noon and in the evening for a rice table
A classic for lunch or dinner in Malaysia is the rice table “Nasi Campur”, originally from Indonesia>Indonesia, where guests help themselves to a rich buffet of meat, fish and vegetable dishes in small food stalls (“Warung”) or restaurants (“Kedai Makan”) with steamed rice and pay individually according to the respective selection.
In Chinese restaurants, this “mixed rice” is also known as “economy rice”. Such buffets can include grilled chicken (“Ayam bakar”), fried chicken (“Ayam goreng”), chicken in soy sauce (“Ayam kecap”) or tomato sauce (“Ayam masak merah”). The sweet and sour fish stew “Asam pedas”, the hot and spicy curry sauce “Gulai”, grilled fish (“Ikan bakar” or “Ikan goreng”), sticky rice cooked in a bamboo cane with coconut milk (“Lemang”), the soups “me bandung” and “Sup kambing” as well as the fish pie “Otak-otak” or “Sata”, which is popular as a snack, are also available almost everywhere.
Salads can also be surprisingly zesty and fruity when eating in Malaysia
The delicious salads in Malaysia also deserve a special mention, where sweet, sour and spicy components are often elegantly and skillfully combined. Known throughout the country is the “Pecel/Pecal” with water spinach, asparagus beans, cucumbers, salt, palm sugar, galangal, Kaffir lime and garlic, which is usually served with the vegetable balls “Perkedel Kentang” or “Bakwan Jagung” fried in oil.
Pasembur, Image: YSK1 / shutterstock
Especially in the north of the country, “Pasembur” made from grated cucumbers, boiled potatoes, tofu, beets and sprouts as well as fried seafood in nut marinade is a delicious specialty. In a more fruity version, Pasembur with mangoes, green apples, pineapple and yam beans is known as “Mamak rojak” or “Rojak Penang” in addition to water apples and honey as well as ginger lilies and peanuts. The traditional salad “Ulam” made from the briefly steamed leaves of the Indian pennywort (“gotu kola”) with dried anchovies, fermented crabs and sambal, which is also used in Ayurvedic medicine as a remedy for diabetes and high blood pressure, is also delicious.
Tropical fruit is eaten fresh from the tree or in sauces and desserts
The huge selection of exotic fruits is of course also noticeable in the national cuisine. Bananas and/or plantains are sold freshly fried or baked as “Pisang Goreng” at countless street stalls. Guava, honeymelon and watermelon as well as star fruit, papaya and grapefruit have also been known to us for a long time in our latitudes.
On the other hand, the very intensely fragrant fruits of the cempedak and especially durian tree may take some getting used to when you try them for the first time. The latter are used to make the hot sauce “Tempoyak”, especially in the Malaysian states of Pahang and Perak in the west of the country. In Malaysia, you can also buy jackfruit (“Nangka”), the raw or cooked berries of the native Lansi (Langsat) and Longan trees, dragon fruit (Pitaya), the rambutan fruit, which is related to lychee, as well as the fruits of the porridge apple tree (“Buah Ciku”) and the soursop, from which sugar is used to make the pudding “Dodol Sirsak” and other sweets.
The Malays also like to eat sweet delicacies throughout the day
Other typical sweet desserts or snacks are the small appetizers made of rice porridge “Kuih-Muih”, which can be bought in numerous colors and variants on almost every corner. These colorful little bites are particularly often prepared with coconut milk, palm sugar and tapioca starch. The same applies to many other typical Malaysian desserts, which are similarly ethnically representative as many of the dishes briefly outlined above.
The large ice cream sundae “Air Batu Campur”, also known by the abbreviation “ABC”, is pleasantly refreshing with adzuki beans, sweet corn and grass jelly as well as peanuts, gelatine (“agar-agar”) and condensed milk. The “Kek Batik” is reminiscent of the “Cold Dog” cake made of biscuits and chocolate, which is well-known in this country, “Dodol” are candies based on palm sugar, and “Keria Gula Melaka” is a pastry made of palm sugar and sweet potatoes. On festive days, people in Sarawak like to eat the layer cakes “Kek Lapis”, which are brightly coloured with food colouring, the no less colourful “Puding Diraja” or “Royal Pudding” with bananas, condensed milk, prunes, candied fruits, cashew nuts and fine threads of egg yolks with sugar syrup (“angel hair”) is particularly popular in the state of Pahang.
Off the Mediterranean coast, they form a dreamlike island duo – the lively Ibiza and the quiet neighbour Formentera. They do not even cover a fifth of the area of Mallorca. At the warmest time of the year, awakened from its virgin hibernation, Ibiza declares itself the epitome of Sex & Drugs & Alcohol, Sun and Fun and one-night stands. Here they are not stingy with charms: the wildest parties are raging, covers and inhibitions fall and the disco fever rises. Anyone who stays in Ibiza is certainly not looking for contemplative peace and quiet – or is it?
The old town of Eivissa, Image: Mariusz Stanosz / shutterstock
Because they do exist, the refuges – rural and tranquil. Only a few minutes separate the common image of the entertainment centre from the peace and originality of the island’s interior. Fertile valleys with almond trees, the dazzling white of the salt flats, the colourful hustle and bustle of Eivissa Town, picturesque, deep bays with beautiful sandy beaches and shady forests – welcome to Ibiza!
Romans, Carthaginians and Moors already felt at home here. The Balearic island operates under the name Pityusic Islands. In 1960, the flower children discovered the Pitiusas. Package tourists, dropouts and profiteers followed. In a military dictatorship, of all places, the flower children took their paradise and settled in one of the most backward societies in Europe. It was time to get out and mystical gathering places were formed. To this day, Ibiza is a region for alternative lifestyles.
Eivissa town – a magical atmosphere
Cala Comte beach, Image: Pawel Kazmierczak / shutterstock
In a small space, Eivissa combines the venerable and the beautiful, the repulsive and the ugly. There can be no unanimous opinion about the city of contradictions. Today, the capital Eivissa has dressed up – decorated with the World Heritage title. The charming island metropolis attracts with a fantastically located old town and shines with a long history. Eivissa should be the first address to explore Ibiza in all its facets. There’s nothing here that doesn’t exist: restaurants, shopping, hotels – the choice is overwhelming. If you like, you can turn night into day here. Leaving the center of the action, the door of the southern beach suburb of Figueretes opens.
Free from booming bass – magical coastal regions
Bays, villages and beautiful places: the north is the most unspoilt region of the island.
The southern coastal strip of the island attracts in a westerly direction with beautiful bays between red steep slopes. On the outer west coast, bays and cliffs are lined up. The extreme southwestern tip is a natural phenomenon.
On the west coast, a trip to Sant Antoni with its beautiful beach suburbs is worthwhile. The second largest city on the island is a lively holiday centre. However, you shouldn’t expect a special flair. As the only holiday resort in the West, Sant Antoni is favoured by British package tourism.
Cala d’Hort, Image: Alex Tihonovs / shutterstock
The northeast attracts with Port de Sant Miquel, Portinatx and Cala de Sant Vicent. In the past, Port de Sant Miquel has suffered particularly from the building sins. While the tranquil church greets you from the hill of the small town of Sant Miquel, Port de Sant Miquel offers itself as a pretty bay with a deep sandy beach, but also with ugly apartment giants on the slopes of the hills.
Portinatx is the largest holiday resort in the north with a beautiful harbour area and child-friendly beaches.
Sant Vincent has little charm as a holiday resort. However, there is a picture-book section of beach with rocks in front of it. Cala Sant Vincent also stands out as a magical beach area.
The south inspires with a varied, predominantly hilly landscape and a number of charming sandy beaches. The region is particularly popular with families with children. In Cala Vadella you can enjoy a family atmosphere in a wooded landscape.
On the other hand, further north in Cala Tarida there is a little more activity. Here, apartment complexes and large club hotels form a sprawling holiday settlement.
The East is characterized by strong contrasts. To the north quiet unspoilt bays, to the south extensive beach settlements with numerous holiday clubs, which are primarily aimed at a very young audience.
Santa Eulária stands out as a family town in the centre of the east coast. Here it is worth taking a stroll along the boulevard, lined with palm trees and flower beds. The most beautiful section stretches from the middle of the promenade up to Placa d’Espanya. On weekdays, a hippie market takes place here.
The most beautiful beaches on the east coast are Cala Lllonga, in the south of the municipality of Santa Eulária. Just before the town is Cala de s’Agá. Right next door, surfers, water sports enthusiasts and water skiers have fun. In the north is the large holiday resort “Es Canar” with the popular sandy beach Cala Pada.
The largest beach settlement stands out as Platja des Figueral.
What would the Island of the Flower Children be without its hippie markets?
The old town of Ibiza Town, Image: Alex Tihonovs / shutterstock
There are hippie markets in Ibiza almost every day in a different place. It’s the atmosphere that counts – original works of art are rarely found. Stands with pretty arts and crafts mass production predominate. With the exception of the street painters, who make portraits of tourists from models or photos in a very short time. Between batik-shirted potters and shaggy-bearded street painters, visitors go on a journey through time.
Tip: Particularly original, the most beautiful of all, is the market in Las Dalias just before Sant Carles. The colorful stalls are spread around the restaurant “Las Dalias” on Saturdays. Under shady arbors and terraces, the juices and mixed drinks at the round bar taste excellent, even if the drinks have a hefty price.
Spanish joie de vivre – El Bigote, the restaurant tip in Ibiza:
East of Sant Cales is a small, hidden fishing cove – Cala Mastella. Here Juan cooks in a cauldron on an open fire. Even the way to Juan is like an adventure. In the direction of Llenya, a sign “Restaurant” hangs on a tree in a forest clearing. Once you arrive, you sit on wooden benches under a self-made roof, nibbling bread and olives.
Important: Please pre-order! Juan only catches as much fish as was ordered.
This is how the day can end: In the middle of the tranquil alleys near the Elivissa town marina, you can get the best mojito on the whole island. Great location and wonderful hosts. Even in the evening hours, you can sit in the sun at “Arte del Mojito” – you like to linger here.
