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Not typical and yet beautiful: Holidays in Paraguay

PatrickJullien
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Not typical and yet beautiful: Holidays in Paraguay

Paraguay is certainly not one of the classic holiday destinations. However, only if holidays only mean wind, water and waves. But you will definitely get all the other beauties on a holiday in Paraguay. The South American country is an underrated destination with many beautiful places and sights that we have summarized in this article.

The Iguazú Falls

Iguazu Falls
Iguazu Falls, Image: sharptoyou / shutterstock

The fact that Paraguay is not overrun by tourists has some advantages. For example, there are still many untouched sections of nature that can be admired. The almost 40 nature reserves alone speak for themselves. Among the most popular sights are the Iguazú Falls. They are located in the triangle between Argentina, Brazil and Paraguay. Right next to the breathtaking natural spectacle is the hydroelectric power plant, which should be worth a visit, especially for those interested in technology.

Jesuit reductions in Paraguay

Jesuit Reductions Paraguay
Jesuit Reductions, Image: RPBaiao / shutterstock

On the Paraná River, the Jesuits created settlements from 1610 onwards, the so-called Jesuit Reductions. In the south of the country, these can be visited by tourists. In the meantime, the ruins of the settlement have been named a UNESCO World Heritage Site. If you want to go to the city, you should pay Asunción a visit. The city centre dates back to the 19th century. It was completely demolished by the dictator Francia and then rebuilt. The architects paid attention to a typical checkerboard pattern. Many churches and museums await visitors here. The city is known worldwide as probably the greenest capital of all.

Cordillera-Caacupe

If you drive about 50 kilometers east from the capital, you will come across Caacupé, the capital of the Cordillera. Here visitors encounter one of the few mountainous landscapes in the area. The place is one of the most famous and is the scene of the Madonna de los Milagros festival every December. In addition, locals and people from neighboring countries come every year. In the heart of the city is also the largest church in the country, which was canonized by the Pope in 1988. The pilgrimage church Basilica San Francisco shines in a neo-romantic style and should definitely be visited. The huge dome of the church in particular invites you to take a good photo.

The Franciscan Monastery in Atyrá

Paraguay also has a lot of insider tips in store. One of them is located near Atyrá. The Franciscan Monastery is a new building in the classical style with strong elements from South America. Many handicraft subtleties and a cheerful architectural style land here to admire. The monastery has made it its goal to enable encounters and not to seal itself off completely. Therefore, events often take place in the monastery. Even guest rooms are offered there. For an overnight stay or a day trip, the holy Kloister is definitely a good choice.

Ciudad del Este

Ciudad del Este, Paraguay
Ciudad del Este, Image: Tupungato / shutterstock

As the name suggests, Ciudad del Este is located in the east of the country. More precisely, in the border triangle together with Argentina and Brazil. Even though Asunición is actually the economic main point of the country, Ciudad del Este generates by far the most sales. Although not always completely legal, the proximity to neighboring countries allows many shops. The town is connected to Brazil via the so-called “Bridge of Friendship”. A river forms the border here. In the middle of the river lies an island that has not yet been awarded to either country. Especially for us Western Europeans, the enormous chaos on the streets there is exciting and imposing. The place is popular as a starting point for visits to the ITAIPU power plant.

Other exciting places in Paraguay

If you are in the country, you should visit the Plaza Juan de Salazar. The city’s cathedral dates back to 1845. Directly in front of the building is an exciting monument to the first governor of Paraguay. There is also an archiepiscopal museum in the area. Here you can find paintings. relics and historically valuable objects of sacred art. In the city center is the seat of Congress – the Palacio Legislativo. In addition, you will find the Government Palace, which is modeled on the Louvre in Paris. In the Jardin Botanvio, animal and nature lovers in particular feel at home – there the entire biodiversity of Paraguayan flora and fauna can be observed and admired. In the centre of the country, on the other hand, tourists appreciate the shopping streets of Palma, Olivia and Estrella.

You should also definitely pay a visit to the gigantic Mercado Cuatro market. Here you can find food of all kinds in fresh quality at enormously low prices. Delicious fruits, vegetables and various types of meat are available for purchase. It is precisely thanks to the cattle market in the state that there is a particularly large supply of beef. If you can’t make it home to the hotel or caravan, you can also taste the delicious dishes from local suppliers directly on site. The regional food can hardly be tasted more authentically.

San Bernardino

The city was built by German settlers as early as 1881. It is located on the beautiful Ypacarai Lake and is one of the most important tourist centers for the local population. In addition, this place with around 5000 inhabitants is the place of death of the anti-Semitic agitator Bernhard Förster, who emigrated to Paraguay in 1886. The city is about 40 kilometers away from Asunción.

Must-haves for your next destination

PatrickJullien
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Must-haves for your next destination

This year, traveling is a little different for all of us. Nevertheless, we want to treat ourselves to a nice break from everyday life and go into the must-haves that should not be missing in any suitcase in 2020:

All-rounder bag

The bag is not only an important companion in everyday life, but also when traveling. It is therefore best to choose a model that is suitable for staying at the beach and for traveling by plane, as luggage is of course always very limited. When traveling, tote bags or shoppers are particularly suitable for storing all important utensils, such as travel documents, a book or the beach towel. A great it-piece when traveling are, for example, these practical Michael Kors bags, which can be combined with different outfits at the same time and become the perfect companion on vacation as well as on the beach!

The dress

The dress is, like every summer, the it-piece par excellence. The summer dresses of 2020 are made of light fabrics and preferably for wrapping – whether midi or mini length, they are available in almost every color and they exude pure summer feeling! You should pay attention to the right material, then they are not only comfortable to wear, but they also fit well in the suitcase and, depending on the look, can be worn on the beach, for a stroll through the city or for a night out. Particularly trendy this year: especially light pastel shades and playful floral patterns are very popular.

The sneakers

A pair of sneakers also belong in every luggage – or even better: wear to the flight/journey. Of course, the most important thing is that they are comfortable – for any hikes, long walks or even rainy days – a pair of sneakers is a must. In addition, you can now also dress them up by combining them with a beautiful dress, rather more elegant!

The Fabric Mask

This year, the mask should not be missing in our luggage, as masks are still compulsory in almost every country, especially in shops. So why not match the mask to the outfits and use it specifically as an accessory. Especially self-sewn masks made of fabric are very practical, as they can be chosen to match the outfit. In addition, the masks are more sustainable and can be easily washed after wearing.

The hat

The hat is a trendy sun protection, especially on the beach, which also enhances the outfit. Of course, both important as head and sun protection, but it can also look really elegant – Caribbean feeling included, so this year the hat in the color white is a great alternative to the boring straw hat. You can spice it up with the matching oversized sunglasses and a scarf that is casually tied around it – matching the bikini, of course – a real diva look for the beach!

The most beautiful boat routes along the Croatian island paradise

PatrickJullien
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The most beautiful boat routes along the Croatian island paradise

Croatia was neglected as a holiday destination for a long time and was known at best as an insider tip. This has changed significantly recently and Croatia has long since welcomed numerous tourists year after year. In 2018 , for example, there were around 19.7 million tourists. Croatia also offers many islands that can be worth a visit. Many of them are almost untouched and can be discovered on a boat tour. Where you can find the right boat, how the booking works and more are described in more detail below.

On tour with the right boat

When it comes to choosing the right boat for the boat tour to the Croatian islands, tourists have a free choice. It plays a role what comfort is desired or whether you want to go on a discovery tour in Croatia as a couple or as a group. Zizoo, the world’s largest booking platform for boating holidays, offers a correspondingly large selection of different boat types:

  • Sailboats
  • Powerful motorboats
  • Lightning-fast catamarans
  • Houseboats

The bottom line is that nothing is left to be desired. Each tour group will find the vehicle for their own boat tour in Croatia. A small addendum: Charter boats in Croatia are cheapest when booked from Saturday to Saturday.

 

Beautiful boat routes in Croatia

1. Visit Krk by boat

One way to experience the beauty of the islands in Croatia by boat is to take a boat tour from Split towards Krk. The island is already very popular with tourists, but still offers many beautiful and secluded corners. Ideal for getting away from it all and enjoying nature.

2. Discover Brac, Hvar and Co.

Brač, Zlatni Rat, Golden Horn
The beach Zlatni Rat / Golden Horn on #Brac, Image: artem evdokimov / shutterstock

But the island of Brac also invites you to visit Croatia by boat. From Sukosan you can reach the island, for example. Brac is the third largest Croatian island and a whole 40 kilometers long. Here, too, you have enough freedom to find untouched corners and dedicate yourself to the secrets of the island in all togetherness.

In general, however, Croatia offers a whole range of other islands that can be reached by chartered boat. From the larger cities, this is usually not a problem and therefore Rab, Hvar or Susak are often popular destinations for holidaymakers.

Conclusion: The Croatian islands are easy to discover by boat

Boat tours are among the highlights that Croatia has to offer for its visitors. Here you can get to know the island diversity of the Central European state wonderfully and fall in love with many spots. But individual boat trips are also possible in Croatia without any problems and offer many a paradisiacal spot. So if you want to enjoy a slightly different holiday with a special view, this is the right place for you.

 

Holidays in Baden-Württemberg are always an experience

PatrickJullien
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Holidays in Baden-Württemberg are always an experience

Baden-Württemberg is located in the southwest of the Federal Republic of Germany and borders France and Switzerland. Baden-Württemberg is one of the most popular travel destinations in Germany. Every year, an average of 49 million people stay overnight in the charming state. It scores with its diverse cultural landscapes and lively cities. Popular holiday destinations are above all the Black Forest, Lake Constance, the Odenwald, the Swabian Alb, the Electoral Palatinate and the Stuttgart region.

Enjoy the beauty of Baden-Württemberg in the Black Forest

Münctertal, Black Forest, Baden-Württemberg
View of Münstertal in the Black Forest, Image: Funny Solution Studio / shutterstock

One of the most important recreational areas in Baden-Württemberg is undoubtedly the Black Forest. It is one of the most visited German low mountain ranges. It is also known as the home of the cuckoo clock. The Black Forest has a length of 200 kilometers and a width of 60 kilometers. It borders on Lake Constance, the Swabian Alb and the Kraichgau, among others.

The northern Black Forest comprises the region between Karlsruhe, Pforzheim and Baden-Baden. Hikers in particular get their money’s worth in the area. There they will find hiking trails with a total length of 2000 kilometers. In addition, 600 kilometres of groomed ski trails are available for winter sports enthusiasts.

Popular in both the summer and winter months is the Black Forest High Road, which lies between Baden-Baden and Freudenstadt. It enchants with its wonderful view, which reaches as far as the plain of the Upper Rhine and the Vosges.

But the central and southern Black Forest are also worth a visit. The Central Black Forest with the areas of Villingen-Schwenningen, Rottweil, Lahr and Offenburg presents a variety of landscapes worth seeing. The southern Black Forest extends to the border triangle of Germany, France and Switzerland. There, the towns of Freiburg, Titisee-Neustadt, Lörrach and Breisach invite you to take a trip. With Feldberg, Blauen, Kandel, Belchen and Schauinsland, visitors will also find the highest elevations in the Black Forest. Hotzenwald and Hochschwarzwald are suitable for skiing.

Lake Constance

Lake Constance, Mainau
The flower island of Mainau, Image: LENS-68 / shutterstock

Another popular recreation center in Baden-Württemberg is Lake Constance. It is located between the Alps and the Jura and covers an area of 538 square kilometres. 236 streams and rivers supply water to Lake Constance. In addition, the inland waters are rich in fish.

The most popular excursion destinations around Lake Constance include the cities of Meersburg and Constance as well as the flower island of Mainau on the Upper Swabian Baroque Road. A wide variety of flower species can be admired on Mainau. There are also regular exhibitions and concerts.

Numerous places on Lake Constance have boat connections. In many communities, buildings from the Middle Ages can be visited. But the unique landscape of the region is also worth a look. It also offers countless opportunities for water sports, cycling and hiking.

The Swabian Alb

From the High Rhine to the state border between Baden-Württemberg and Bavaria lie the Swabian Alb and its foothills. Typical features of the Alb include the castles and palaces, which offer an interesting foray into history.

But some museums such as the Limes Museum in Aalen are also worth a detour. Thus, important finds from the Roman era can be admired in the museum. In addition, knights’ games are held in Aalen every year, which are well worth seeing.

Other recommended destinations in the Swabian Alb are the towns of Heidenheim with Hellenstein Castle, Braubeuren with its famous monastery complex, the old imperial city of Ulm with the world’s highest church tower and Schwäbisch Gmünd with its architectural monuments from the Romanesque, Gothic and Baroque periods.

In addition, the Swabian Alb is a paradise for hiking. There are 13,000 kilometres of hiking trails available. There are also opportunities for cycling, horse riding, kayaking, hang-gliding and golf. In winter, cross-country skiing can be practiced, among other things.

A visit to Baden-Württemberg’s capital Stuttgart

Stuttgart, Porsche Museum
The Porsche Museum at night, Image: Markus Mainka / shutterstock

Stuttgart is the state capital of Baden-Württemberg. With about 2.8 million inhabitants, it is the sixth largest city in Germany. The Stuttgart Region is one of the largest conurbations in the Federal Republic of Germany and is always worth a visit.

The image of the city is characterized by numerous hills, valleys such as the Neckar Valley or the Stuttgart Valley Basin, the Palace Garden, the Rosenstein Park and many green spaces. One of the most famous landmarks of the city is the TV Tower. Finally, there are several castles and palaces to admire.

In the Stuttgart region, a large number of historic castles and fortifications can be visited. The area scores with its charming landscape and picturesque lakes. In the Remstal and Stromberg area, wine lovers and gourmets get their money’s worth. Numerous inns invite you to visit there.

The Odenwald

A popular low mountain range in Baden-Württemberg is the Odenwald, which stretches as far as Hesse and Bavaria. It is one of the most important local recreation areas in the Rhine-Main region. The towns of the Odenwald do not radiate any hustle and bustle and are considered ideal for a relaxing trip. The Odenwald is also known for its viticulture, which was already practiced by the ancient Romans. Winegrowers’ festivals take place annually in Bensheim, Groß-Umstadt and Heppenheim. Of course, there are also many wine bars there that invite you to stop for a bite to eat.

Typical of the Odenwald communities are their idyllic half-timbered houses and medieval alleys. A particularly good opportunity to admire the fantastic landscape is offered by boat trips on the Neckar. They lead past beautiful towns, palaces and castles.

The Electoral Palatinate

The Electoral Palatinate refers to the Baden region of the Rhine-Neckar area, which is located in Baden-Württemberg’s northwest. In part, the Electoral Palatinate also belongs to Rhineland-Palatinate and Hesse. Mannheim and Heidelberg are among the best-known cities in the region. Other places worth seeing are Hockenheim, Weinheim, Schwetzingen, Eppelheim and Reilingen.

The area of the Electoral Palatinate was already appreciated and settled by the ancient Romans, who planted the first vines there. The mild climate allows the cultivation of various vegetables and fruits.

The border with the Odenwald is formed by the Bergstraße, which is characterized by its many hills and villages. Numerous castles and castle ruins are among the sights of the area. One of the biggest visitor attractions is Heidelberg Castle, the former residence of the Counts Palatine.

No less worth seeing is Mannheim Castle, which served as the successor residence of the Counts Palatine. Schwetzingen Castle, on the other hand, was used by the electors as a summer residence. Another attraction in Mannheim is the Luisenpark as a botanical garden, zoo and leisure facility at the same time.

City trips in Baden-Württemberg

Schlossplatz Stuttgart
The Schloßplatz in Stuttgart, Image: Sina Ettmer Photography / shutterstock

In addition to the state capital Stuttgart, there are several cities in Baden-Württemberg that invite you to visit. These include above all the spa and spa town of Baden-Baden in the western part of the state. Baden-Baden also gained fame as a city of art and an international festival city. Another attraction is the city’s famous casino.

Freiburg im Breisgau scores with its cathedral, the city’s most important landmark, as well as the Freiburger Bächle, the Schlossberg on the edge of the old town, the local mountain Schauinsland and the Mundenhof animal enclosure.

The university town of Tübingen enchants with its historic old town. A visit to Hohentübingen Castle is also recommended. From there, an impressive overview of Tübingen’s old town can be obtained.

The Baden-Württemberg cities of Karlsruhe, Heilbronn, Ravensburg, Hohenheim, Reutlingen and Esslingen am Neckar are also worth a visit.

Europa-Park in Rust

Europa-Park, Rust
Europa-Park in Rust, Image: Eva Bocek / shutterstock

Of course, Baden-Württemberg also has some amusement parks to offer its visitors. The most famous of these is the Europa-Park in Rust. No amusement park in Germany is visited as often as Europa-Park, which can be found between Freiburg and Karlsruhe.

It is divided into 17 different subject areas. 13 of them are dedicated to European countries such as France, Spain, Greece and Russia .
There are also themed areas such as the world of children, the kingdom of the Minimoys, the adventure land or Grimm’s fairytale forest. Among the many attractions are the Silver Star, the second highest roller coaster in Europe, the Matterhorn Blitz, Euro Mir, the witches’ swing “Curse of Cassandra” or the water roller coaster Poseidon.

But there are even more amusement parks in Baden-Württemberg such as the Traumland amusement park on the Swabian Alb, the Tripsdrill adventure park near Cleebronn and the Ravensburger Spieleland on Lake Constance.

Kazakhstan sees its future in tourism

PatrickJullien
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Kazakhstan sees its future in tourism

When in 2006 the US mockumentary “Borat – Cultural Learning from America to Make Benefit for the Glorious Nation of Kazakhstan” by the British comedian and actor Sacha Noam Baron Cohen celebrated international cinema successes, the Kazakh Foreign Ministry initially threatened to sue for the obvious, albeit clearly satirically exaggerated degradation of the world’s largest landlocked country with an area of over 2.7 million km².

However, the government of the sparsely populated Central Asian country with only 18.3 million inhabitants quickly recognized the immense advertising potential of the film character for its own tourism and after the number of tourist visas applied for by foreign guests had increased tenfold in a very short time after the cinema release of “Borat”, they even thanked its actor for the unexpected help.

State subsidies to significantly expand tourism in the future

Sharyn National Park, Kazakhstan
Sharyn National Park, Image: Andrey Bocharov / shutterstock

In fact, tourism has evolved from a niche to a significant economic factor in Kazakhstan over the past two decades. In 2000, for example, less than 1.5 million visitors came to the country, in 2012 there were already over 4.8 million, and in 2016 there were already a good 6.5 million guests. In 2014, the Kazakh cabinet adopted the so-called “Tourism Industry Development Plan 2020” with an investment volume of 4 billion US dollars for the extensive expansion of tourism infrastructure and the creation of about 300,000 new jobs in the industry. In the course of this, the visa requirements for entry were also significantly simplified in the same year, so that EU citizens and German citizens now only need a passport, but no longer a visa for their stay in Kazakhstan of up to 30 days.

An English prince has helped an old Soviet ski resort to new glory

Shymbulak, Kazakhstan
The winter sports resort of Shymbulak, Image: remizovka / shutterstock

Experts and connoisseurs unanimously welcomed this initiative of the Kazakh government as a long overdue step in the right direction to finally bring the country, which is so interesting in terms of landscape and culture, a little closer to the international public. Kazakhstan also gained a certain fame through the skiing holiday that the member of the English royal family Prince Harry spent there in the winter of 2014 with his now former girlfriend Cressida Bonas. The traditional winter sports resort of Shymbulak, a good 25 kilometers south of the city of Almaty in the far southeast of the country, was already the venue for various ski competitions and training camps of the Olympic team when it belonged to the USSR. As part of the above-mentioned tourism plan, Shymbulak is to be increasingly promoted as a destination for wealthy winter vacationers from countries such as China and India in the future.

Almaty – The historic city on the Silk Road

This project seems to make quite sense due to the proximity to the venerable Kazakh capital Almaty, which is the largest and former Kazakh capital with over 1.8 million. According to archaeological finds, today’s almost 700 km² urban area was permanently settled over 2,000 years ago. Almaty was also known in Europe until the 16th century due to its geographical location on the legendary Silk Road, in the “City of Apples or Apple Trees”, which has been renamed since 1993, there are still many buildings and museums worth seeing as well as sacred buildings and theaters. These include the 371-metre-high television tower built in 1983 on the 1,130-metre-high local mountain Kök-Töbe, the Ascension Cathedral from 1907 and the St. Nicholas Cathedral from 1908. Guests of the city also like to visit the “Central State Museum of the Republic of Kazakhstan” with over 300,000 exhibits, the “State Museum of the Arts” founded in 1979 with 22,000 works of art, and the “Museum of Folk Music Instruments”, which reopened in 2013 with currently over 1,200 instruments from Kazakhstan and around 40 other countries.

The huge rocky gorge is made for rapid rides on the long river

In the surrounding, 224,000 km² province of Almaty, there is also a lot to see and discover for visitors to Kazakhstan who are interested in nature and culture. The official administrative seat of Taldyqorghan currently has a good 145,000 inhabitants, and the local history museum and the neighboring Shansgurov Museum are frequently visited here. The rock carvings in Tamgaly, which are up to over 4,500 years old, have been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2004. The small border town of Dostyk can be used for travel to China. The mountains around the town of Talghar, which are up to over 3,000 metres high, are popular among hikers. Architecturally more strongly influenced by Chinese than Russian or Kazakh, the mosque in the city of Sharkent is built between 1887 and 1892. The most famous natural monument in the Almaty region is the almost 90-kilometre-long “Charyn Canyon”, which is often compared to the US “Grand Canyon” because of its appearance and has also been increasingly used for whitewater rafting with rubber dinghies in recent years.

Where the legendary warlord Genghis Khan had his meal cooked

The rough and rugged rocky gorge, which glows red in the sun, is also part of the 127,000-hectare national park named after it. There are currently a total of 13 national parks in Kaschhastan, of which the areas of Altyn-Emel, Chonghar-Alatau, Ile-Alatau, Kolsai Lakes, Sairam-Ugam and Tarbaghatai are equally located in the southwest of the country. In the north, on the other hand, there are the national parks of Bajanaul, Bujratau and Burabai as well as Kökschetau and Qarqaraly, and in the far east is the country’s largest national park, Katon-Karagai, with an area of almost 644,000 hectares. Well-known attractions in the Altyn-Emel National Park are the so-called red and white mountains Aktau and Katutau as well as a historic cooking place of the mythically glorified former Mongol leader Genghis Khan. In the Bajanaul National Park there are three lakes that are much visited in the summer months, north of the Dschongghar-Alatau National Park the 2,650 km² Alaköl Lake, which is designated as a bird sanctuary. In the 112,000-hectare Qarqaraly National Park in central Kazakhstan, the two lakes Baceen and Shaitankol are popular destinations for locals.

Lake Balaton – pure relaxation

PatrickJullien
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Lake Balaton – pure relaxation

Nestled in the western Hungarian landscape, Lake Balaton is considered the second most popular travel destination in Hungary. The pleasant climate, a beautiful landscape, hot springs and numerous sights make every holiday at Lake Balaton an unforgettable experience. While beach resorts and hotels have sprung up in large numbers on the southern shore of the lake, the north side of the lake presents itself with charming towns and historically grown villages worth seeing.

Natural paradise of Lake Balaton

The varied landscape around Lake Balaton is beautiful. While the swamp zones and reed regions around Lake Balaton are a unique habitat for rare plant, reptile and bird species, the volcanic mountain landscape around the lake presents itself with extensive forests and geological features.

The Balaton Uplands National Park is one of the most fascinating nature reserves in Europe. Both the northern area of the Tihany peninsula and the Kis-Balaton bog are part of the national park area. The wetland of Kis Balaton is a well-known buffalo and bird reserve. Observing the buffalo and grey cattle herds in their natural habitat is one of the impressive experiences that nature lovers can have in the National Park at Lake Balaton.

If you want to explore the nature around Lake Balaton, you will benefit from an extensive network of hiking trails and nature trails. Especially in the national park area, there are numerous signposted routes that lead to the most beautiful natural areas in the region.

Lake Balaton holiday paradise

Lake Balaton, Lake Balaton in Hungary
Boat trip on Lake Balaton, Image: grafxart/ shutterstock

With an area of 600 km² and an average water depth of 3 m, Lake Balaton is a popular destination for families. Lake Balaton is characterized by its shallow water near the shore, so that children can also enjoy the cool water here without any worries. But Lake Balaton also offers ideal conditions for water sports enthusiasts, where you can surf, sail, dive and fish. The beautiful bathing meadows and sandy beaches around the lake invite you to sunbathe and relax and around Lake Balaton, tourists also benefit from a very good infrastructure. The region has a lot to offer, especially in terms of cuisine, and so it is worth visiting the restaurants at Lake Balaton. Here you can enjoy typical dishes such as goulash soup, paprikás csirke, lángos, bableves and much more. But also fantastic sausage specialties such as Debrecziner and Kolbász and sweet temptations such as Dobostorte, Esterházy cake and pancakes are part of the typical Hungarian cuisine.

Cures at Lake Balaton

Hungary and especially the region around Lake Balaton is also an ideal destination to enjoy spa and wellness treatments. Over 1,000 hot springs can be found on Hungarian territory and even the Romans knew about the healing powers of Hungary’s hot springs.

Only a few kilometres west of Lake Balaton, the traditional spa town of Héviz inspires with Lake Hévis, which is a very special attraction as the largest natural thermal lake in the world. Idyllically surrounded by forest, the spa facilities of Héviz are among the most famous in Hungary. But there are also numerous health resorts along the shoreline of Lake Balaton, which are known for their wide range of spa and wellness facilities. The Tihany spa is particularly idyllic here, but the spas of Gyenesdias, Balatonfüred, Siofok, Balatonakali and many other health resorts also inspire with their direct waterfront location and their spa and wellness facilities.

The most beautiful towns and villages of Lake Balaton

A special highlight are the enchanting towns that can be found around Lake Balaton. Many of the cities are characterized by their city center that is worth seeing, a fantastic riverside location, historical sights and a wide range of cultural offerings. Especially on the northern shore of Lake Balaton, there are many charming towns worth seeing, so that exploration tours prove to be extremely worthwhile.

Balatonfüred – the romantic spa town

Balatonfüred is known as one of the most romantic cities in Central Europe. The spa town shines with a town centre that is characterised by buildings from the 18. and 19th century. A jetty also gives the city maritime flair. In addition, the spa and health resort is characterized by its attractive cultural life, so it is always worth taking a look at the current calendar of events.

Tihany – the unique place on the Balaton Peninsula

Tihany, Lake Balaton
Tihany, Image: ZGPhotography / shutterstock

The town of Tihany offers a fantastic view of the lake and also shines with numerous listed buildings. The nearby Baroque monastery of Tihany Abbey is probably the most famous building in the city, as it is considered one of the most important historical monuments in Hungary. It is also worth visiting the ruins of the Újlak church. But in the end, it is the particularly cozy atmosphere of the place that inspires visitors.

Keszethely – the capital of Lake Balaton

The town of Keszethely has always occupied a very special position among the places around Lake Balaton. It is not only the largest city on the shores of the lake, but also historically the most interesting. Here you will find sights such as the enchanting castle complex of Feštetić. The list of listed residential buildings in the old town is long and the cityscape is correspondingly worth seeing. Keszethely is also ideal for an extensive shopping spree, because the lively pedestrian zone of the spa and spa town has a lot to offer. But in the end, it is the unique Mediterranean flair of the city that enchants visitors and invites them to linger in the numerous cafés and restaurants.

Siofók – the pearl on the south bank

The town of Siofók is one of the most famous and popular seaside resorts on Lake Balaton. Although the town is often referred to as the “Ballermann am Balaton”, Siofók looks back on a long history and is well worth seeing as a former royal free town. If you walk through the city attentively, you will find numerous sculptures worth seeing, dreamlike old villas, beautiful parks and, of course, the city’s famous water tower.

 

The most important questions about Lake Balaton

How deep is Lake Balaton?

The maximum depth of Lake Balaton is 12.5 meters. The average depth is 3.3 meters.

How big is Lake Balaton?

Lake Balaton is 77 kilometers long and has a total area of 592 km²

In which country is Lake Balaton located?

Lake Balaton is located in Hungary, about 100 kilometers from Budapest .

Why is Lake Balaton called Lake Balaton?

The name is probably due to the low water level. Even the Romans called the lake “
Lacus Pelso
“, the shallow water.

Rimini – Longing for Italy

PatrickJullien
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Rimini – Longing for Italy

Rimini – the oldest and quite attractive seaside resort on the Adriatic Sea awakened the longing for the Italian “Dolce Vita” a long time ago. With the kilometre-long sandy beach, guests experience a relaxing holiday by the sea.

Rimini has been transformed into a modern holiday destination over the past few years. The sins of 20th-century pollution have been eliminated. This new prudent way of thinking runs through the entire region. Positive effects on the environment, especially on the water quality of the sea, are clearly noticeable. Today, Rimini’s coast is one of the cleanest beaches in Italy and the quality of the sea water is strictly controlled.

New buildings? Here, too, Rimini is a pioneer in sustainability. It has concentrated on the existing buildings and adapted them to modern standards. Thanks to the restoration of the old buildings, the traditional construction method has been preserved.

Rimini – a city with many faces

Over the Tiberius Bridge to Borgo San Giuliano

The Tiberius Bridge is a work of art made of Istrian white stone. With its 5 arches, it is one of Rimini’s sights. For more than 2,000 years, it has led people to Borgo San Giuliano. Murals on the houses commemorate the great director Federico Fellini. Film scenes from famous works are perfectly reproduced here. This is how the former slum became a hotspot.

Old Town of Rimini

With its many buildings from the 15. And In the 16th century, Rimini is often referred to as Little Rome . The old town was shaped by the Middle Ages and the Renaissance. The “Tempio Malatestiano” stands out particularly impressively. The gigantic cathedral was built of white limestone and was completely redesigned during the Renaissance. It is still one of Rimini’s impressive sights today.

With many small cafés and restaurants, the old town is worth a visit at any time of the day. Museums provide interesting insights into Rimini’s long history. In the evening, friends and strangers meet to enjoy the evening together. With changing events, the old town is an attraction for conviviality.

Beach life

Rimini Beach
The extensive beach of Rimini, Image: barbajones / shutterstock

During the day, the beach appears completely in Italian flair. Playground equipment offers children safe entertainment. The sun and the sea invite you to relax. Own cozy beach plots ensure privacy. On some beaches, these plots are mainly for guests with dogs. They can make themselves comfortable within the plot without leash compulsion. On the promenade, the gastronomy awaits you with all kinds of culinary delicacies.

Sport and party on the beach and in the sea

From beach volleyball to jogging in the sand to beach gymnastics with professional trainers, everything is possible on the long sandy beach. Banana boats, windsurfing or water skiing on the sea are a challenge for the daring and offer a welcome change.

With a dive, the biodiversity of the Adriatic Sea becomes visible. A small speedboat takes the divers to various regions, where the sea creatures are already waiting for their visit.

Attractive events are offered again and again – partly during the day, partly in the evening.
Every evening, the beach turns into a roaring party zone. Disco tents such as the Turquoise Beach Club invite you to party every evening. With good music, a good atmosphere is pre-programmed.

The hinterland

The hinterland in the province of Emilia-Romagna captivates with an extraordinary diversity of nature.

Half of the region consists of hilly landscapes, mountains, forests and lakes. Here are castles that invite you to linger. Again and again, historical monuments appear along the hiking trails.

Culinary journey

Delicious wine is grown on the slopes. The wine-growing region is characterized by fresh maritime air. Nestled between the sea and the mountain range of the Apennines, very wholesome wine is produced. Here the winegrowers invite you to a wine tasting. They organize these gatherings with the typical Italian serenity. With stories from life and winegrowing, they give their guests something instructive, well mixed with entertainment.

The flat landscape that makes up the other half of the region is largely used as an agricultural area. Fruit tree plantations, floriculture and vegetable cultivation radiate a special tranquility and a walk on flat ground relaxes body and soul.

What to see in the surroundings of Rimini

San Marino

Basilica of San Marino
Basilica of San Marino, Image: Yury Dmitrienko / shutterstock

A special excursion is a visit to San Marino. It is the smallest independent state in the world. As early as 301 A.D. it was founded and is also considered the oldest known state.

The capital San Marino is located on Mount Titano. With its small alleys, it provides insights into the past. The protective walls were built up to the edge of the cliffs and offer an impressive view over the entire region. In the villages that belong to San Marino, visitors can admire magnificent castles.

Il Parco Tematico, Rimini

A successful change from beach life is a trip to Miniaturland. Here you can marvel at not only Italy, but also highlights of Europe. A variety of attractions makes the day an unforgettable experience. A canoe ride through the rapids, a kick with the Sling Shot or the course high in the trees, Areaavventura, which shows the world from a whole new perspective, are among the highlights of this park.

Skypark

If you want to spend a day in a different way, this climbing park is the right place for you. There are courses with different levels of difficulty. The attempt to copy Tarzan’s jumps on the lianas or to take a spin on a skateboard on steel cables is also exciting. This is a sporting event of superlatives.

The most important questions about Rimini

How to get from Rimini to San Marino

By car, the journey from Rimini to San Marino takes 30 minutes. Bus line 160 takes you from Rimini to San Marino in just under 40 minutes. Timetable Rimini > San Marino

What is the weather like in Rimini?

Cayman Islands – More than just a tax haven

PatrickJullien
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Cayman Islands – More than just a tax haven

Snow-white, seemingly endless sandy beaches, in the background you can hear the sound of the waves rolling out on the beach just a few meters in front of your feet. The sun shines down from the cloudless blue sky and it smells gently of sweet tropical fruits. Large coconuts hang from the palm trees next door. In the middle of the Caribbean Sea between Cuba and Mexico lie the Cayman Islands, which could hardly be more picturesque. If you are looking for paradise on earth, you will find it on the three-part archipelago.

So far, the Cayman Islands have been heard as a tax haven in the evening news , when large companies and personalities used the archipelago as a loophole to save taxes in their home countries. About 200,000 companies are registered on the archipelago.

In the meantime, however, more and more tourists are discovering the picturesquely beautiful Caribbean archipelago of the Greater Antilles for themselves, such as Christopher Columbus, who discovered the islands on his fourth voyage of discovery. The archipelago consists of the large main island of Grand Cayman, Little Cayman and Cayman Brac. The name of the islands goes back to the crocodiles living there, which were initially confused with the caimans. Although they are located in the middle of the British Overseas Territory, all three islands have their own small airport, which makes them easy to reach from the mainland.

Unforgettable holidays

First and foremost, Grand Cayman is known for its beautiful reefs. Since 1978, the species-rich underwater world around the island has been protected by several laws. With fins, diving goggles and snorkel, you dive into a colorful world below sea level on one of the guided snorkeling tours. A unique experience that can no longer be forgotten.

Cayman Islands Diving
Coral reef in the Cayman Islands, Image: Ethan Daniels / shutterstock

But there are also spots on land that should not be missed. The famous Seven Miles Beach is one of the most famous and beautiful beaches in the Caribbean. The fantastically beautiful fine white coral sand stretches for about ten kilometers, which is bordered by palm trees inland, while on the other side the waves of the crystal clear sea gently roll out on the beach. Although the beach is famous worldwide and the most exclusive resorts on the island are located here, the beach is public and accessible to everyone. The beach has already served as a backdrop for numerous well-known Hollywood productions.

After a nice day at the beach, you should definitely visit the local Heritage Kitchen between Seven Miles Beach and George Town. Here, it is mainly the locals who eat regional delicacies such as freshly caught fish, but also Julia Roberts when she spends her holidays on the island.

If you are not only enthusiastic about beautiful beaches, but also about activities on the water, you should spend your holidays here before November to April. With a constant water temperature of 30 degrees and little moisture in the air, kayaking and chasing the perfect wave on a surfboard is particularly fun.

One of the absolute island specialties that every vacationer should have tried at least once is the rum cake. This is baked in George Town by many different suppliers and is now one of the most successful export items on the island. But it’s not just cake that can be tasted and purchased in the charming little capital. George Town offers numerous shopping opportunities, completely duty-free. Very special is the jewelry, which is offered here by the locals from natural materials, such as shells and corals, at moderate prices. While true Caribbean flair reigns in the alleys during the day, the lively nightlife pulsates here in the evening hours.

A very special place in George Town is the turtle farm. This not only provides visitors with exciting and rare insights into the life of turtles, it also does important work for the conservation of the animal species as a state research station. 45,000 eggs are laid in the station every year.

But there is also a lot to experience and discover culturally on the Cayman Islands. During a visit to the bell tower and the other historic buildings, you can learn a lot about the history of the archipelago. The oldest building on the island at Bodden Town is Pedro St. James Castle. The story is not only long, it is also very eventful, because it is not just a simple inhabited house. Over the years, this has been a courtroom, parliament and prison all in one. Today, the house can be visited from the outside as well as from the inside.

Cayman Brac and Little Cayman

Little Cayman
Church on Little Cayman, Image: Jaime Pharr / shutterstock

While life pulsates on Grand Cayman, the two small islands of Little Cayman and Cayman Brac seem almost lonely, but no less beautiful. Little Cayman in particular is inhabited by just 120 people and has the largest nature reserve, which is inhabited by many different plants and animal species. Much of the smallest of the three islands is indecisive and covered by tropical rainforest. In fact, nature is so untouched that pelicans and cormorants live here.
About 140 kilometers away from the main island is the middle island of Cayman Brac. An entire cave system near Bodden Town once offered protection and refuge to the dreaded pirates. This system, which ensured the safety of pirates in the 18th century, can still be admired and explored today in the former capital.

Beautiful North Sea – Blåvand and surroundings

PatrickJullien
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Beautiful North Sea – Blåvand and surroundings

Blavand is one of the most beautiful destinations of our northern neighbour, Denmark. The small town is located directly on the North Sea and offers wonderful opportunities for strolling, walking and swimming. On the long dune beaches you will find few people and you can enjoy the peace and seclusion of Danish culture and “hygge”. Hygge is a Danish way of life, a coziness of the locals and deceleration that you can only find in the northern country of us. This is ensured by the few inhabitants in large areas. Denmark is mostly rural and has only a few major cities. There are no traffic jams and little hustle and bustle.

Blåvand and its lighthouse

Blavand
Beautiful nature in Blåvand, Image: UE-Photography / shutterstock

In addition to the small promenade that runs right through the village, you will find Blåvandshuk Fyr far at the front of the beach, Denmark’s westernmost lighthouse. During the day you can climb it and have a wide view over the North Sea and the inland. In addition, there is a small restaurant and a souvenir shop. In the evening, tourists and locals gather here and watch the breathtaking sunset. Blavand forms the westernmost tip of Jutland, right next to the lighthouse. When the land sinks into an orange glow, then evening has dawned and a quiet and starry night follows. The nights are clearer here than in Germany. There are not as many lights in the villages as there are in our cities, and so the splendor of the sky is much more pleasant. The lighthouse rises 39 meters into the air.

Blavand and recreation

The main road to the Fyr is covered with small shops, restaurants and souvenir shops. Numerous Danish souvenirs can be purchased here. If you are looking for relaxation and the hygge described above, you should look for a place on the beach. Beyond the Fyr there is a more than 40-kilometre-long beach that stretches up to Ringköbing Fjord. Denmark has more than 7400 kilometers of coastline, the North Sea Cycle Route leads straight from Römö in the south via Blavand up to Skagen, over more than 500 kilometers. On the beaches around Blåvand there is always a gentle breeze, the North Sea wind. In the dunes, however, you are protected and can see the cold and salty North Sea water as a refreshment. Many hang-gliders are on the beach.

Excursions around Blåvand

Beaches Blavand
Extensive beaches invite you to swim, Image: Ronald Schroedter / shutterstock

If you spend your holiday in the North Sea resort of Blåvand, you have plenty of opportunities to explore the surrounding area by car. No more than an hour away is the island of Fanø, which can only be reached by ferry. For a day trip, it is worthwhile to drive over there as a pedestrian and rent a bike in the capital. Since the coastal areas are all very flat, you can get over the island quickly. The main road, which runs along the interior of the island, is connected to the side by a beautiful cycle path. From Nordby, the capital with its small dreamy alleys, a typical Danish supermarket and a church, we now descend south through a nature reserve to Sönderho, past a typical windmill that can be visited.

In addition to Fanø, there are also destinations nearby, such as the old town of Ribe, with its queen Dagmar, and the industrial city of Esbjerg, which does not have many sights, except for the three men looking out over the North Sea, a huge monument on the beach where you can experience a unique sunset. But in the city center there are numerous opportunities for shopping and shopping. You can stroll along the promenade and see numerous Danish shops. Ribe, on the other hand, is a cultural city with its cathedral and medieval market square. Just outside is the ruins of Queen Dagmar’s castle.

Excursion destinations to Hvide Sande and Ringköbing Fjord

If you want to experience German Denmark, you should drive north from Blavand and visit Ringköbing. This fjord is an inland body of water and only a thin land bridge, on which places such as Hvide Sande, Henne Strande and Nörre Nebel lie, forms the border to the North Sea. It is mainly the Germans who rule here. In the fish shops at the harbour of Hvide Sande or a small coffee roastery, where you can even get the legendary liquorice coffee. In the small towns there is usually a shopping street with the typical Danish shops, but also many different bathing opportunities, endless beaches and small harbours. A trip to Söndervig, to the annual sand exhibition in the promenade, is definitely worthwhile. Here you will not only find beautiful sculptures, but also a maritime experience for the whole family.

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Holidays with the family in Blåvand

The village of Blavand has numerous holiday homes that are rented out again and again every year. Outside the village there is a horse ranch. In addition to a stay there, you can also ride through the large forests of the region and get riding lessons. The horse farm is lovingly located on the edge of the city and the forest. If you follow the peninsula, you will eventually come to a dead end and a beautiful beach. Here, too, the rough wind of the North Sea blows. On the beach of Blavand there are still numerous bunkers from the Second World War, a highlight for young climbing artists of the families. The Woodrows are a kind of landmark of the city. These horses, made of metal, are connected to the bunkers and are considered the most beautiful sculptures in the region. So it is recommended to spend your holiday here in Blåvand. If you want to get a taste of culture, you can also go to the Bunker Museum, which is always open during the day and during the week and shows an exhibition.

The best travel tips for Safaga

PatrickJullien
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The best travel tips for Safaga

53 kilometers south of Hurghada is Safaga, an old seaport known for its clean air, black sand dunes and mineral springs. Safaga is considered Egypt’s most important phosphate export center and important seaport. Many visitors also come for medical reasons. Safaga is said to have extraordinary potential for curing psoriasis, rheumatism and arthritis, but also for back problems and improving blood circulation. Due to its positive effect on the skin, Safaga has also developed into a true beauty pilgrimage site.

The clean beaches and the always stiff sea breeze make Safaga an excellent place for diving holidays. Although Safaga is an excellent destination for diving and snorkeling, the city is even more famous for its ideal conditions for kitesurfing and windsurfing. In 1993, Safaga even hosted the World Windsurfing Championships.

The city is also a perfect starting point for sightseeing tours. The desert west of the city is home to just as many historical treasures as the Red Sea, which borders Safaga to the east.

For day trips by speedboat to the wall of fire, the Forbidden Reef or the ferry wreck of Arish El Tor, it is best to book a local guide on site. In addition, there are excursions to the famous Tobia Islands, the Panorama Reef with the towering corals of Abu Qitan and the legendary Mons Claudianus, the ruins of a Roman settlement dating back to 68 AD, where granite buildings from the surrounding mountains were used exclusively for the purpose of the imperial Rome .

Beaches and water sports in Safaga

The beaches in Safaga are immaculate and beautiful. Most hotels in Safaga have their own private beaches that are exclusively available to hotel guests. Hotels and resorts in Safaga offer a wide range of water sports and activities related to the sea, from snorkeling trips to pedal boats, canoeing and catamarans.

Windsurfing in Safaga

Safaga, Windsurfing
Safaga is a windsurfer’s paradise, Image: Kostin SS / shutterstock

Safaga hosted the Red Sea Windsurfing World Championships in 1993 and has an excellent reputation among windsurfing and kitesurfing. The winds in the Red Sea are caused by the temperature difference between land and water, and Safaga benefits from a generally flat coastline with no fringing reefs. This creates perfect conditions.

Safaga is therefore ideal for beginners in the field of windsurfing, but also advanced windsurfers get their money’s worth.

Ancient Egypt from Safaga

Karnak Temple, Luxor
The Karnak Temple in Luxor, Image: Zbigniew Guzowski / shutterstock

Safaga is a good starting point for inland sightseeing. Luxor is easy to reach. It is often referred to as the largest open-air museum in the world. Due to the numerous well-preserved ancient monuments in the city and its surroundings, it is the ideal destination for an exciting day trip. The city of Luxor was built on the ruins of the ancient city of Thebes and is located on the east side of the Nile. Karnak is located in the north and Thebes on the west bank. It is a “must” for any holiday in Egypt to visit the Luxor Temple built by Amenhotep III and the Karnak Temple. Luxor is also close to the Valley of the Kings and the Valley of the Queens.

Mons Claudianus is one of the best preserved sites of Roman civilization in Egypt. As a Roman penal colony and quarry, the stones worked by the prisoners were used as building material for the Roman Empire. Mons Claudianus’ gleaming black stones can still be seen today in Hadrian’s villa, in the portico of the Pantheon, in public baths, and in the columns and floor of the Temple of Venus in Rome.

Attractions in Safaga

Ferry wreck ‘El Arish El Tor’

The Norwegian ferry sank in 2002 and came to a standstill on its port side. The wreck starts at a depth of 15 meters and goes down to 38 meters. Its abundance of fish and the abundant growth of soft corals, especially on the propellers, as well as the remains of former seating areas on deck, make the wreck worthwhile for wreck divers and underwater photographers alike. Even the former utensils on board the ship, such as life jackets or fire hoses, can still be seen – none of which were needed when the ship slowly sank at anchor, because it was unmanned. This wreck is home to many yellow-tailed barracuda, Indian mackerel often hunt around them and swarm across the deck – an unforgettable natural spectacle.

Firewall

The reef offers abundant coral growth and many marine animals such as fusilier and goat fish, as well as the ubiquitous lionfish. The plateau is home to groups of smaller coral heads that are home to anemones and clownfish, as well as even the otherwise rare moray eels. Encounters with large stingrays such as feather-tailed or eagle rays are also common.

Forbidden Reef

It is a large reef accompanied by ergs. Next to the reef, the depth is 10 meters, and further out it is up to 30 meters, where the seabed is covered with bizarrely shaped coral blocks. This site is very rich in fish, especially schools of fusiliers, as well as large jacks and barracuda. Groups of dolphins also frequently visit this dive site. A dive can be done as a mooring line or as a drift dive and is suitable for all levels.

Mons Claudianus

This huge Roman site and important landmark is named after Mons Claudianus, who once supplied grey granite for the Roman Empire. One thousand stone crushers and Roman soldiers were stationed in this part of Hurghada for over two centuries. Even today, objects from Mons Claudianus can be seen in the Pantheon, Hadrian’s villa and the unfinished Temple of Venus. Other sights are the old fortress, apartments, workshops, stables, baths, granite columns and slabs.

Panorama Reef

Diving Safaga
Safaga’s underwater world is a diving paradise, Image: pekk / shutterstock

If you want to go diving in Panorama Reef, you should plan several dives, as you will not visit this place only once. This is due to the huge plateau and rich slopes that you should not miss. The diver’s paradise is located 60-90 minutes outside of Safaga.

The reef is the largest reef in Safaga and offers arguably the largest underwater variety of plants and animals. Due to the current from the north, the reef is particularly suitable for drift diving. The North Plateau is home to many purple corals, dolphins, and gray reefs, to name a few. However, the main attraction of the reef is, of course, the steep walls, which disappear into the depths at a depth of more than 20 meters. The coral life of the reef is characterized by soft corals. The abundance of different fish species in this reef is simply gigantic. For example, there are parrotfish, lionfish, and scorpion fish, to name a few.

Tobia Island

Tobia Island, a surfer’s paradise, is a small bank island in the middle of Safaga Bay. Tobia Island is considered the perfect place to spend a day at sea on one of the many day trip dive boats. It is also a wonderful place to snorkel and observe the excellent coral heads in the shallow water, making snorkeling easy, fun, and ideal for children. For those who like it more challenging, some of the best diving in the region can be done from Topia Island. Dive boats will take you to different locations where you can experience many different types of dives in a single trip, from sandy shallows to towering coral columns.

Diving in the Red Sea off Safaga

Diving around Safaga is varied and interesting. There are fewer dive centers than in Hurghada in the north, which means that the dive sites are less crowded and the corals are in better condition. With dives on the house reefs for beginners and some deeper drift dives offshore for advanced divers, there is something for divers of all levels. The coral reefs are characterized by pinnacles, slopes, grottos, and overhangs, and are all abundantly populated with marine life. There is also the wreck of the Salem Express, a hundred-meter-long ferry that sank in December 1991 and unfortunately killed about five hundred passengers on board who wanted to make a pilgrimage to Mecca. To venture a little further afield, a liveaboard excursion might be a better option for the avid diver, as otherwise most resorts offer day dives from boats or from the shore.

But whether you’re looking for a diving adventure or the perfect wave, whether you just want to relax on the beach or explore the historical monuments of ancient Egypt, you’re guaranteed to find something for everyone on a holiday in Safaga.

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