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Rügen, island of originality

PatrickJullien
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Rügen, island of originality

Over a large bridge you move towards the island. To the left the safe harbor and the spire of Stralsund, to the right a first idea of the Baltic Sea. Here you are welcome to comment on the water: “It’s pretty wavy.” or “The sea seems calm today.” As soon as you have given the blue-green water one or two attributes, you are already on the island: the largest island in Germany: Rügen. Look back again and see how stress and everyday problems blur somewhere in the distance. And then look ahead: There are many beautiful island moments waiting for you!

For me, the most beautiful thing about Rügen is the opportunity to find a place for yourself. There are many places here that offer you complete peace and seclusion with sea views. However, there is enough to experience here. I’ll show you some striking, beautiful points and possibilities.

Viewpoints on Rügen

Overview of the island

Rugard Tower

Rugardturm Rügen
Rugard Tower, Image: Stephanie von Kellertuer.com

After a short walk through the city center of Bergen, you can go up to the Rugard Tower with its glass-domed roof. Actually, it’s called the Ernst Moritz Arndt Tower, it got the name Rugard from the elevation on which it lies.

You can get the key to the tower yourself, at the reception of the hotel “Am Rugard” restaurant. Enjoy the view!

Granitz Hunting Lodge

Rügen Hunting Lodge
The hunting lodge, Image: Stephanie von Kellertuer.com

From the platform of the hunting lodge you also have an insanely wide view. Before that, however, you have to climb a “floating” metal staircase, which is certainly a challenge for one or the other. Once at the top, it’s worth it!

Treetop Walk

Treetop Walk Rügen
View from the treetop walk, picture: Stephanie von Kellertuer.com

The newcomer among the possibilities to view Rügen from above: the treetop pad in Prora. It goes high up between the treetops, from above you can also see the sea.

 

Special sights on Rügen

These places are unique and worth at least one visit

Chalk cliffs and Königsstuhl in the Jasmund National Park

Chalk cliffs Rügen
The chalk cliff, picture: Stephanie von Kellertuer.com

The sight of the chalk cliffs is impressive. They tower like white giants, the chalk sometimes making the water on the coast shine bright turquoise. From the Viktoriasicht, a free viewing platform on the edge of the cliffs, you can look far out onto the Baltic Sea.

Flint fields

Flintstone flat rate – you can experience a walk of an unusual kind at the Feuersteinfelder. The whole floor is covered with flints. You just walk over them and can enjoy nature.

 

Beautiful beaches on Rügen

Swimming in the Baltic Sea or in the Bodden, chilling on the beach or strolling

Binz

Endless rows of beach chairs, beautiful promenade with the iconic spa architecture. Here you can enjoy the upscale island flair.

Göhren

Just like the beaches next door – Sellin, Göhren, Baabe – you can simply experience pure bathing fun here and stroll along a pretty little promenade. There is also a pier here.

Sellin

Many steps lead you down to the beach or to the Sellin pier, which also offers a restaurant and café. There is also an elevator leading down.

Beautiful places for walks on Rügen

Ralswiek

In summer, the Störtebeker Festival takes place here. However, Ralswiek is also wonderful for a long walk. Past the harbour towards the forest and always along the water. Nature seems so rough and original here.

Putbus

Putbus, also known as the white city, is an eye-catcher. In the “Circus”, a roundabout of white houses, red roses climb up in contrast to the bright house facades. This is a wonderful place to stroll.

Fishing village of Vitt

Vitt is located on the northernmost part of Rügen, here you can see thatched roofs and there is freshly smoked fish. Walk along the water and enjoy.

 

 

About the author, Stephanie:

Rügen is the island of my heart. I spent many, many days of my childhood on this island and at least once a year I am ready to travel to the sea, to Rügen. As a Berliner, Rügen is the contrast to the big city, offers fresh air and space for thoughts and happiness.

On my blog Kellertür I write about cycling, traveling and Berlin. Escaping the big city is often on the agenda. Take a look or follow me on Facebook to find out about the latest articles.

 

Azerbaijan – the land of fire

PatrickJullien
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Azerbaijan – the land of fire

The state of Azerbaijan is located between the Caspian Sea and the Caucasus Mountains and has a total area of just over 86 square kilometers. The special thing about the country is not only the considerable oil reserves, but above all the different climate zones, which not only provide varied landscapes, but also create habitats for over 18,000 animal species and breathtaking flora. Of these, more than 100 different mammal species are native to Azerbaijan, such as the gazelle, which is also a protected species, bears, wolves, wild boars and even seals. In total, over 360 different bird species are also represented in Azerbaijan, including flamingos and pelicans.

Baku – the city of burning towers

If you have chosen Azerbaijan as your travel destination, you should definitely visit the country’s capital Baku . In addition to tradition and history, the city also offers numerous other entertainment options.

Particularly interesting is a walk through the historic old town, which is still largely surrounded by a wall and has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2000. In addition to the Maiden’s Tower, which dates back to the 11th century and is one of Baku’s most important landmarks, you will find the Shirwan Shah Palace and the Fountain Square, where numerous shows, festivals and events take place.

Flame Towers Baku, Azerbaijan
The Flame Towers of Baku, Image: Milosz Maslanka / shutterstock

Another landmark of Baku and at the same time currently the tallest buildings in the city, are the three flame towers, which not only immediately catch the eye due to their height, but also form a huge contrast to the many historical buildings and thus immediately attract attention. In the evening, the flames are lit up in a colourful and colourful way, casting a fascinating shimmer on the buildings and streets in front of the flame towers.

Very close to Baku is the mountain called Yanar Dag and is a true natural phenomenon, as it has been burning for over 1,000 years. Natural gas rises through natural and very high pressure and ignites many small fires on the ground, some of which climb up the rock faces, some of them with a height of three meters.

To relax, take a boat tour on the Caspian Sea, the largest lake in the world.

https://youtu.be/2gSL5wGPNEM

Qobustan – an extraordinary national park

Qobustan National Park
Qobustan National Park, Image: Kasia_Przygodzka / shutterstock

The national park has a size of almost 50 square kilometers and has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2007. Visitors can’t help but be amazed, because some things to discover can only be found in Qobustan worldwide. In caves and rock walls there are over 6,000 petroglyphs carved into the stone, some of which are said to be more than 10,000 years old. Most of the drawings depict animals and people, but also pictures of hunting, boats with warriors and battle scenes.

Also very interesting is the music stone, which is also located in the national park and is called Gaval Dash. A smaller stone is used to hit the Gaval Dash and thus triggers fascinating sounds. Oil, gas and the climate are responsible for the formation of natural stone.

The mud volcanoes are another highlight of Qobustan and attract numerous visitors every day who do not want to miss this impressive and fun natural spectacle. There are only about 700 mud volcanoes worldwide, of which more than 300 are located around Qobustan alone. Natural gas, which rises from the ground or from the volcano, transforms the mud into sometimes huge bubbles, which then burst with a funny sound. Every 15 to 20 years, one of these volcanoes erupts and a huge mass of mud spreads throughout the area.

Also very close to Qobustan is a natural gas pond, where the gas bubbles and bubbles in all places, as well as an oil pond, a large and oily waterhole.

Naftalan – the oil baths of Azerbaijan

If you want to do something good for yourself and your body, Naftalan is the place to be. The city is located in the west of Azerbaijan and is known for its numerous facilities where you can bathe in pure petroleum as well as for the large healing center where various skin diseases such as rheumatism and arthritis are treated.

Since the 12th century, people from different countries have been coming to Naftalan to benefit from the soothing and healing oil baths. Marco Polo was also enthusiastic about the oil baths and publicly reported on his experiences. The crude oil is also said to have a relaxing, cleansing and disinfecting effect on the skin

Holidays in Denmark

PatrickJullien
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Holidays in Denmark

This text is a paid advertisement.

Denmark is one of the most popular German travel destinations ever. And for good reason. Because the Scandinavian peninsula not only offers countless historical and cultural sightseeing highlights. In addition to that, there is also beautiful Copenhagen. However, the No. 1 holiday reason for German tourists is the nature holiday on the North Sea. Fresh air, beautiful beaches and a relaxed ambience – it doesn’t get any better than this. Where to stay for the perfect Denmark vacation and what other insider tips there are, we reveal in this guide.

The best methods for a holiday in Denmark

There is no question that Denmark is really a wonderful holiday destination. But what exactly is the best way to travel to the north now? Is a campsite the best choice? Or rather the holiday home?

  • Holidays in a hotel: Denmark is not really known for its hotel complexes. Yet the Scandinavian country boasts some of the most stunning and classy hotels in Northern Europe. The only disadvantage is that these are rather rare in the middle of Denmark’s beautiful nature.
  • Holiday in a holiday home: Holiday homes in Denmark combine the best of all worlds: the comfort of your own home combined with the beautiful nature outside. It doesn’t get any better than this! There are also a wide variety of types of holiday homes. So you can then choose the perfect holiday home according to your own wishes and ideas. How about a holiday home in Blavand, for example?
  • Holidays at the campsite: Camping holidays in Denmark are an absolute classic. And quite rightly so. After all, Danish campsites promise beautiful nature and excellent sanitary facilities.

More tips for your holiday in Denmark

Life in Scandinavia is generally a bit more expensive than in the rest of Europe. And of course, this is especially true for a holiday in Denmark. Accommodation, sightseeing and daily life all cost a little more. Of course, it’s great if you could save something elsewhere. And that’s exactly why we’ve come up with these three tips:

  1. Buy food in Germany

As already mentioned, everyday items in particular are more expensive in Denmark than in Germany. Therefore, we recommend that you do your shopping in Germany, especially for campers and trips to a holiday home. Of course, only non-perishable things. Nevertheless – buying all non-perishable goods in Germany saves a lot of money.

  1. Book in time

As with any holiday, the same applies to Denmark: Booking in good time saves a lot of money. Because the earlier you book, the lower the prices for accommodation usually are. And by the way, you can then secure your own dream accommodation without stress.

  1. Observe speed limits

Denmark has a much tougher road traffic law than Germany. Even slight speeding can quickly cost a lot of money. In the worst case, there is even the threat of a driving ban.

A holiday in Denmark promises a lot of fun, breathtaking nature and beautiful memories for eternity. So it can be worthwhile to book your trip to Denmark today. And if you follow our tips for your holiday, the perfect Denmark holiday is guaranteed.

Discover nature and culture in Thuringia as a travel destination

PatrickJullien
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Discover nature and culture in Thuringia as a travel destination

In the north of Thuringia, the densely wooded Harz heights enchant nature enthusiasts with a wide network of hiking trails. The vibrant cities of Gera, Weimar and Erfurt attract visitors with a colourful range of exciting sights. And the historic Wartburg Castle invites you to visit as an almost world-famous sight. The Thuringian Forest, a wildly romantic low mountain range and the flat landscape of the Thuringian Basin characterise the varied landscape of Thuringia. The popular holiday region in the heart of Germany is easy to reach from all directions and offers interesting leisure activities for young and old.

Explore attractions in Thuringia

Wartburg, Thuringia
The Wartburg, Image: IURII BURIAK / shutterstock

If you take a stroll through Thuringia, you will discover numerous interesting sights, such as the romantic Hanstein castle ruins, the Kyffhäuser monument or the castle ruins of the legendary Emperor Barbarossa. The Dornburg Castles building ensemble, enthroned on a steep slope above the Saale, houses an interesting museum. And the mighty Ranis Castle in the Saale-Orla district was once the imperial castle of numerous German kings and emperors.

The historically very important Wartburg Castle towers above Lutherstadt Eisenach. Since 1999, the building, in which Martin Luther translated the Old Testament into German in 1551/2, has been a World Heritage Site. During a tour, you will also visit the 40-metre-long ballroom and the Luther Room.

The home of the well-known poet Goethe in Weimar attracts many visitors.
The City Museum houses exciting exhibitions about Weimar’s history. And the DDR Museum Apolda takes you back in time.

Hiking fun in Thuringia – at the pulse of nature

German National Theatre, Weimar
The German National Theatre, Image: canadastock / shutterstock

If you are looking for active recreation or sporting challenges, you will find what you are looking for in Thuringia: The wildly romantic Slate Mountains or the idyllic Thuringian Forest run through a wide, well-signposted network of trails for hiking enthusiasts and mountain bikers, regardless of whether you love leisurely walks or challenging routes.

The Rennsteig high-altitude hiking trail, which is more than 160 kilometres long, offers hikers magnificent views and leads you through the Thuringian Slate Mountains, the Thuringian Forest and the Bavarian Franconian Forest.

Cyclists like to follow the Hercules-Wartburg Cycle Path, which leads past Eisenach into the Thuringian Forest.

Near Eisenach there is a narrow, partly only 70cm wide gorge, which you can cross on a wildly romantic wooden footbridge. Nature has created a unique scenery here. The quietly rippling Marienbach accompanies you on your hiking adventure through the Dragon Gorge. Afterwards, it is recommended to follow the hiking trail in the direction of the Rennsteig to the Hohe Sonne; because from here it is only a stone’s throw to the Hischstein viewpoint.

Summer, sun and great excursions

Erfurt, Thuringia
View of Erfurt, Image: photo20ast / shutterstock

In the warm season, around 30 clear bathing waters allow young and old holiday guests to have refreshing bathing fun. The Eberswiese mountain lake is surrounded on three sides by rock faces and is a paradise for good swimmers. The Bleiloch Dam is the largest reservoir in Germany. There are idyllic bathing spots here, for example ‘Am Strandbad’ in Saalburg. Sports enthusiasts can enjoy various water sports at the Bleiloch Dam and recreational captains like to sail across the water sparkling in the sun on an excursion boat.

A colourful range of varied excursion destinations provides plenty of holiday fun in Thuringia. In the Thuringian Forest, for example, exciting climbing adventures await you in the high ropes course. Or would you rather take part in a dwarf tour through the stalactite cave? In the fairy grottoes it is ‘Glück auf!’ An experienced cave guide will be happy to show you the fascinating world underground.

A winter holiday in Thuringia

Thuringia is also worth a visit in the cold months and offers the best conditions for a relaxing winter holiday.

Believe it or not, 16 winter sports areas offer skiing and tobogganing fun.
The most famous among them is the Oberhof ski area, which extends up to 830m above sea level. The 800m long Fallbach slope attracts alpine skiers with sporting challenges. The adjoining snow park is an Eldorado for snowboarders. And various bobsleigh and luge competitions regularly provide variety.
Those who prefer to have fun away from the slopes can also look forward to a wide network of winter hiking trails and cross-country ski trails in the district of Saalfeld. At Lehesten am Wetzstein, there are around 28 groomed trails available for cross-country skiers. And families whiz down the Arnsgereuth toboggan hill with blowing hair, laughing.

Fine and hearty food for connoisseurs

Thuringian cuisine is considered down-to-earth and traditionally spoils gourmets with solid home cooking. The Thuringian grilled sausage is known far beyond the country’s borders.

But Thuringia attracts travelers with a variety of culinary delicacies for every taste.

Hearty roasts with Thuringian dumplings and sauce are among the most popular delicacies in Lutherstadt Eisenstadt.

Since 1828, the Wartburg Brewery has been delighting thirsty throats with its drinks. The ‘Schwarzer Esel’, a quaffable black beer, is considered a special speciality.
Why not take a culinary tour through Thuringian cuisine and try the beer soup with bread cubes, which has been popular since the 16th century.
For dessert in Thuringia, you will be served the seductively sweet sour cream cake with fruit.

Festivals and celebrations throughout the year

  • From the maypole setting in Erfurt to the Biathlon World Cup in Oberhof, Thuringia is the venue for lively festivals and celebrations all year round.
  • The Krämerbrückenfest in Erfurt is the largest old town festival in Thuringia and invites you to join in the celebrations with music, cabaret and culinary delights. The medieval market and the eagerly awaited fireworks display with laser show every year are among the highlights of the Krämerbrückenfest.
  • In 1653, the Weimar Onion Festival was first mentioned in a document. Framed by a multifaceted cultural programme on numerous stages, the Onion Festival today offers colourful entertainment. Be sure to try the spicy bacon or onion tart.
  • During the Advent season, Thuringia is transformed into a magical winter fairy tale. Romantic Christmas markets make Thuringia’s towns and cities shine in special splendour.
  • More than 200 wooden stalls with handicrafts and delicious goods stretch out at the Weimar Christmas Market between Wenigemarkt and the Cathedral Square. At the Goethe-Schiller Monument, an ice rink provides great fun for young and old skaters every year.
  • In front of the impressive backdrop of the cathedral, the Erfurt Christmas market has been taking place for well over 150 years. This is considered one of the most beautiful Christmas markets in Germany.

Kenya – Giraffes, Lions and Co

PatrickJullien
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Kenya – Giraffes, Lions and Co

Kenya as a travel destination embodies everything you imagine Africa to be: wide steppes, giraffes eating the treetops and herds of zebras galloping through the country dragging a long cloud of dust behind them.

Kenya’s varied and unique wildlife is just one of the highlights that awaits visitors to this East African country. For example, there are also beautiful sandy beaches and vibrant cities.

Kenya has been independent from Great Britain since 1963 and is now home to just over 47 million people. Most international flights arrive in Kenya in the capital Nairobi, a flight from Germany takes about 11 hours.

Highlights in Kenya

Kenya’s capital Nairobi

Nairobi, Kenya
View of Nairobi, Image: Sopotnicki / shutterstock

Most visitors come to Kenya to see the diverse wildlife and impressive nature and therefore often travel on from Nairobi the next day after arrival. Nevertheless, this city has a surprising amount to offer its visitors. For those interested in culture and history, a visit to the National Museum of Nairobi is particularly worthwhile. The recently renovated museum displays a large number of natural history and cultural exhibits, including a large beetle and butterfly exhibit as well as contemporary Kenyan art. There is also an exhibition that presents the various Kenyan natural areas with their animals and plants and thus provides a good overview of the regions of the country.

Just 7 kilometres from the city centre is Nairobi National Park, which is home to many rare wild animals, separated from the rest of the city by a fence. Here, lions, hippos, ostriches and leopards can be found in the wild and can be observed. The park specialises in the endangered black rhinos and is one of the last habitats for the animals. In the immediate vicinity is the Daphne Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage, a sanctuary for rhino and elephant orphans. The animals are cared for here and prepared for a life in the wild. Visitors can be present at the feeding, bathing and walking with the animals.

Outside the city

Masai Mara National Park

Parliament
The Kenyan parliament in Nairobi, Image: Sopotnicki / shutterstock

The 1500 square kilometre Masai Mara National Park in the south of the country is considered one of the most scenic and animal-rich regions in Kenya. The savannah of the park is occasionally broken up by so-called inselbergs and changes from a grass savannah to a tree savannah from north to south. The park is home to a variety of well-known African animal species, including lions, leopards, rhinos, elephants, and buffaloes. A visit is particularly worthwhile between July and September, when the animals of the savannah embark on a gigantic migration from south to north in search of water and there is a good chance of encountering a large number of the otherwise quite hidden animals at one of the waterholes.

Lake Nakuru National Park

Flamingos, Lake Nakuru
Flamingos at Lake Nakuru, Image: FOTOGRIN / shutterstock

Lake Nakuru National Park is the second most visited national park in Kenya after the Masai Mara. It stretches around Lake Nakuru over an area of 188 square kilometers and offers its visitors a large number of wild animals and a breathtaking landscape.

The center of the park is Nakuru Lake, which is one of the very shallow lakes with an average depth of 4 meters and whose size varies greatly depending on the season. A special visitor magnet are the more than 4 million flamingos that populate the shore areas around the lake and offer a colourful natural spectacle. In addition, this park is one of the last refuges for the endangered black rhinos, which are protected here 24 hours a day by rangers.

Bamburi Beach

In addition to the species-rich and unique national parks, Kenya’s beaches also attract countless visitors from all over the world year after year. One of the most beautiful beaches in the East African country is Bamburi Beach.

It is located 12 kilometers north of the port city of Mombasa and impresses with its white sandy beach and turquoise blue, clear water. Here, too, nature lovers get their money’s worth, because the true jewel of the beach lies underwater: while diving or snorkeling, visitors can discover the colorful and varied underwater world with numerous tropical fish, colorful corals and starfish.

Not far from Bamburi Beach, Nyali Beach is also home to the largest crocodile farm in the country.

Amboseli National Park

Samburu Women
Traditional Samburu women, Image: hecke61 / shutterstock

With an area of 390 square kilometers, Amboseli National Park is one of the largest national parks in the country, and is also the oldest protected area in Kenya. It is located in the far south on the border with Tanzania and from some places in the park the Kilimanjaro massif with its namesake and Kibo, the highest mountain on the continent, is very visible and provides a fantastic backdrop.

Thanks to the commitment of the Maasai living here, this region was largely spared from poachers and an incomparable wildlife was able to develop here. A special highlight of the park is its gigantic elephant population, as Amboseli National Park is home to over 800 of the giant animals.

Tsavo East National Park

The Tsavo East National Park is the largest national park in Kenya with its gigantic area of over 11,700 square kilometers and consists largely of desert-like steppes and tree- and grass-covered savannah landscapes.

Despite the relative barrenness, the park is home to countless animal species, including an endemic lion species, in which the males have almost no mane. Another highlight of the park are the so-called Red Elephants, which cover themselves with the red sand of the park and therefore appear in a bright rust red.

The most important questions about Kenya

What is the capital of Kenya called?

Nairobi is the capital of Kenya.

How long does it take to fly to Kenya?

A flight from Frankfurt to Mombasa, for example, takes eight and a half hours. A direct flight from Frankfurt to Nairobi takes ten and a half hours.

How much does a flight to Kenya cost?

According to records by swoodoo.com, a flight to Kenya costs an average of just under 670 euros.

How safe is Kenya?

Kenya is considered a safe travel destination. Tourism is very important and tourists are treated very kindly by the locals.

What is the best time to travel to Kenya?

The best time to visit Kenya is from June to October and December to March. This is how you avoid the rainy season with sometimes very heavy rainfall.

What vaccinations do I need for Kenya?

Pay attention to current vaccinations against tetanus (tetanus), diphtheria, pertussis (whooping cough), measles and poliomyelitis/polio.

Latest reports on Kenya

[catlist name=”kenia”]

St. Barts – colorful mosaic in the Caribbean

PatrickJullien
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0
St. Barts – colorful mosaic in the Caribbean

Also known as Saint Barthélemy, the island is part of the overseas department and a little bit of France in the middle of the Lesser Antilles. The island of volcanic origin is considered an insider tip for relaxing holidays away from large crowds. It occupies an area of only about 21 square kilometers and is the smallest island in the French Antilles, but captivates with a great variety of landscapes. St. Barts has endless fine white sandy beaches, turquoise seas, dazzling coral reefs, winding inland hiking trails, exotic flowers and picturesque towns.

The most beautiful beaches on St. Barts

The tropical island paradise has numerous picture-book beaches that invite you to enjoy the pleasures of swimming. At Flamands Bay, the longest beach on the island, visitors can expect the unique contrast of snow-white beach and blue-green water. The secluded beach of Colombier can only be reached by boat or hiking trails and offers breathtaking views over the entire island. On the beach of Grand Cul de Sac, water sports enthusiasts get their money’s worth – whether diving, snorkeling, sailing or kayaking. The beach of Anse de Marigot, the only gray sand beach on St.Barts, offers shelter from the sun with its extensive coconut grove. While the bay of Cayes, lined with rubber trees with its high waves, is an Eldorado for windsurfers.

Gustavia – capital of St. Barts

Gustavia, St. Barts
Gustavia, the island’s capital, Image: Sean Pavone / shutterstock

The island’s capital, Gustavia, captivates with its mixture of charming French flair and sparkling Caribbean lifestyle. Colourful wooden houses with red roofs alternate with luxurious properties and visitors can shop duty-free in noble boutiques. Gustavia is also a foodie’s paradise, with a variety of select restaurants serving French and Caribbean cuisine, often a mix of both. A popular destination for hikers is the 61-metre-high, white-red lighthouse, which offers a perfect view of the harbour of Gustavia with its noble yachts. Around the lighthouse run the remains of the walls of Fort Gustav, built in 1787, and some cannons have also been preserved. The construction of the fortification dates back to the time when the Caribbean island was under Swedish rule.

Culture and museums

Holidaymakers interested in culture can embark on an exciting journey through time into the history of the Caribbean island at the Musée Municipal de Saint Barthélemy . Starting from the time as a colony to the present. The museum in Gustavia also has an exhibition of historical documents, clothes and tools that is well worth seeing.

The International Shell Museum in Corossol is worth a visit, whose collection includes over 9000 of the most beautiful specimens from different countries and offers valuable information. In the museum’s boutique, shells can be purchased as a souvenir of a dream island holiday.

Sights on St. Barts

Beaches St. Barts
In addition to beautiful beaches, St. Barts has a lot more to offer, Image: Edd Lange / shutterstock

In addition to French flair and fantastic Caribbean beaches, the small island also offers other sights.

Corossol

The original fishing village of Corossol, located northwest of Gustavia, captivates with its small houses that line a slope like pearls. Here, the inhabitants still wear traditional costumes and speak Norman. From the bay, visitors can enjoy fantastic views of Gustavia in addition to magnificent sunsets.

Morne de Vitet

With the 286-metre-high Morne de Vitet, the Caribbean island also offers a highlight for sporty active holidaymakers. On the way to the summit, hikers pass picturesque huts and experience a magnificent view of the island and the sea.

Ile Fourchu

Swim together with turtles in a natural environment – the unique diving spot Ile Fourchu off St. Barts makes it possible. The nature reserve also includes numerous species of fish and corals as well as other sea creatures.

Ilet de Coco

Located in the south of the island, the Ilet de Coco invites experienced divers to exciting dives with its caves and steep walls. A special experience is the variety of sea creatures, which include sharks and turtles as well as humpback whales.

Excursions by catamaran

One of the most beautiful holiday experiences in the holiday paradise of St. Barts is a trip on a catamaran around the island. The bays of the island offer space for anchoring, swimming and diving, and the catamaran can be rented with or without a crew.

Saint Barth Gourmet Festival

Visitors can experience culinary delights at the Saint Barth Gourmet Festival, which takes place every autumn. In addition to fine wines, delicious creations of Caribbean cuisine are offered here – enjoyment at its finest.

Climate on St. Barts

The weather on the Caribbean island is characterized by a tropical climate with lots of sun and pleasant trade winds. The period from December to May is the dry season on St. Barts, while rainfall can be expected in the months from July to November.

Tips for getting to St. Barts

There are no direct flights between Europe and St. Barts. Shuttle flights to St. Barts are offered from the surrounding islands of Saint Martin, Guadeloupe and Saint Thomas. In addition, fast ferries run regularly between St. Martin and St. Barts.

Sumatra – island with unique landscapes

PatrickJullien
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Sumatra – island with unique landscapes

Sumatra is part of Indonesia and is the second largest island in the state. It belongs to the large Sunda Islands and has several offshore islands. In the middle of the primeval island runs the equator. Sumatra is also known for the Sunda Strait, which has a length of 40 kilometers and separates it from the neighboring island of Java , and the Strait of Malacca.

The breathtaking scenery of Sumatra

Lake Toba, Sumatra
View of Lake Toba, Image: GlebSStock / shutterstock

Sumatra enchants its visitors above all with its fantastic landscape, which consists of rainforests, swamps and volcanoes. The beautiful lakes, the imposing mountains and the extensive beaches are also fascinating.

In contrast to many islands that are characterized by tourism, Sumatra still has a high level of originality. There are only a few conurbations and plenty of untouched jungle. The beaches look idyllic and overcrowded metropolises are rarely found on the island.

Sumatra is particularly suitable for people who love nature and adventure and are willing to give up some comfort. Instead, they will get an insight into the breathtaking natural landscapes of the Indonesian island.

Best time to visit Sumatra

The climate on Sumatra is characterized by its proximity to the equator. It is tropical and humid, so there is rainfall throughout the year.

The best time to visit Sumatra is from late April to mid-October. The hottest temperatures around 33 degrees Celsius are reached between April and July. The time between the end of October and the beginning of March is less suitable for a trip, because it rains the most then.

How to get to Sumatra?

The best way to reach Sumatra is by plane via Kuala Namu International Airport, which is located in the capital Medan. However, there are no direct flights from Europe to Medan, so a flight must be via other Asian cities such as Jakarta, Bangkok or Singapore . From there, you will take an Indonesian airline to Sumatra.

From Java, Sumatra can also be reached by boat via the ferry port of Merak, which heads for the port of Bakauheni. The boat trip takes about two hours. There is also a bus line that runs from Java by ferry between Jakarta and Bandar Lamung in the south of Sumatra.

Getting around Sumatra

To bridge long distances on the Indonesian island, a plane is recommended. From Medan Airport, other cities such as Banda Aceh or Padang can be reached. There are also local bus lines that can be used to reach any tourist destination on the island. There are also some minibuses or coaches.

However, larger buses only run on a few routes. The cheapest travel option for a trip through Sumatra is regional minibuses, but they are sometimes overcrowded.

Some tourists also hire a private driver, which is both convenient and cost-effective, especially for couples, families or smaller groups.

Medan and its interesting sights

On Sumatra, a visit to the island’s capital Medan is worthwhile. Located in the northern part of the island, the city is the cultural and historical centre of the island and was built at the beginning of the 19th century.

The Maimun Palace, built between 1887 and 1891, is particularly worth seeing. It was built by order of the Sultan of Deli and served as a residence for a time.

Other attractions in the capital include the Moroccan-style Grand Mosque, built in 1906 by an architect from the Netherlands, as well as various Dutch-style buildings. These include the Tirtanadi Water Tower, which is also Medan’s landmark, the post office and the town hall.

Explore Sumatra’s nature in Gunung Leuser National Park

Sumatra, Gunung Leuser
Elephants in Gunung Leuser National Park, Image: Sertan Yaman / shutterstock

One of the most fascinating attractions of North Sumatra is the Gunung Leuser National Park. It is one of the largest nature reserves in Indonesia and can be found in the provinces of Aceh and Sumatra Utara.

Many animal species have found a way to retreat in the national park. While hiking, numerous species can be discovered, such as tigers, Sumatran rhinos or wild bulls. The park is also home to the Sumatran orangutan as well as some species of birds, reptiles and amphibians.

The Gunung Leuser National Park is not the only attraction of this kind. Sumatra is home to around a dozen parks spread across the island. Its diverse flora and fauna is worth a detour. The landscape, which is located in the middle of crater lakes and primeval forests, remains unforgettable. Animal lovers will get their money’s worth.

A fantastic natural setting

Sumatra scores with its magnificent landscapes. The 30 or so volcanoes such as the Kerinci dominate. It is also Sumatra’s largest elevation. At its foot are the tea plantations worth seeing. Other natural spectacles include Lake Maninjau and Lake Toba. They were once formed by powerful eruptions of a supervolcano.

The island of Somosir, which is located in Lake Toba, is also worth a visit. On it, the Batak culture can be admired. The stone sarcophagi of the Sidabutar royal family, which are about 400 years old, are a popular attraction. Another attraction is Tuk-Tuk beach.

Beaches in Sumatra

There are several attractive beaches on Sumatra. Bintang Island is especially popular with young travelers. There is an optimal beach recreation possible. Numerous resorts offer a quiet location as well as inexpensive hotels. Nightlife enthusiasts will get their money’s worth in the discos and pubs on the coast.

Culinary specialties

If you are interested in local cuisine, you can stop off at one of the regional restaurants. A variety of cheap rice dishes await. Delicacies also include seafood and fish dishes

Davos – The highest city in Europe

PatrickJullien
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Davos – The highest city in Europe

If you want to get to know Switzerland , you should not miss Davos. Because there are a few reasons to visit the popular climatic health resort. Davos is the highest city in Europe, located in the canton of Graubünden and offers its visitors a wide range of sports, leisure and cultural activities. In summer, Davos is a wonderful destination, because the mountain landscape offers many hiking trails through meadows and forests at lofty heights. Many holidaymakers are drawn here especially in winter, which is certainly also due to the city’s winter sports history. In 1883, the first toboggan race took place in Davos, and the first ski lift was inaugurated in 1934. Even the Nobel Prize winner for literature Thomas Mann was enthusiastic about Davos and wrote his well-known novel “The Magic Mountain” here.

The special healing climate in Davos

Davos is not only known for its beautiful surroundings, but also for its special healing climate. The healthy and healing power of the Davos climate is helpful in therapies against infectious and allergic diseases of the lungs and respiratory tract. The longer the duration of the stay, the greater the health-promoting effects. Pollen allergy sufferers also appreciate a holiday in Davos, because the pollen load is reduced to only a few weeks a year due to the altitude.

Davos – the versatile city

Davos developed into a trendsetter early on with a wide range of leisure activities. Theatres, coffee houses, concerts and cinemas entertained guests 100 years ago. Even today, Davos offers a wide variety of sports and culture with galleries and museums, as well as a wide range of nightlife options, including numerous ski huts, snow bars and après-ski.

Sights and tourism in Davos

Davos in winter
Davos in winter, Image: Leon Gutierrez / shutterstock

Winter sports are of course very important in Davos, which is also due to the total of five first-class ski resorts. The well-known ski resorts include Parsenn, Schatzalp, Jakobshorn, Rinerhorn and Pischa. In total, there are a good 320 kilometres of slopes here. In addition, there are about 60 lifts and gondola lifts. So a great skiing holiday is guaranteed.

In summer, you can explore impressive hiking trails with a total of 700 kilometers. Lake Davos is also worth a visit. With a shore length of a good 4 km, the lake can reach 20° Celsius in the summer months and offers many sports and leisure opportunities for water sports enthusiasts. In addition to Lake Davos, the lido also offers the opportunity for refreshment and extensive sunbathing. At the lake and also in the lido you can relax and unwind.

The Winter Sports Museum

The Winter Sports Museum, which opened in 1988, has two rooms. On display is the comprehensive collection of valuable winter sports equipment and documentation from a foundation of the Kaufmann family, as well as the archive of the hockey club. The museum’s numerous exhibits include bobsleighs, sledges, ice skates, skis and ski bindings. They range from the beginnings of winter sports to the present day.

The Medicine Museum at Davos Platz

The ski area in Davos
The ski area in Davos, Image: mezzotin / shutterstock

If you are interested in the history of medicine, the Medical Museum Davos is the right place for you. Historical traces of medicine and the spa town of Davos are explained on display boards. Interesting details about the milestones in the history of tuberculosis and medical equipment of the first Davos sanatoriums can be admired in the museum. The medical-historical collection currently comprises more than 500 medical devices.

A visit to the Kirchner Museum

The unique Kirchner Museum is also worth mentioning. From 1918 until his death, Ernst Ludwig Kirchner lived in Davos. With his extensive oeuvre, he is considered groundbreaking for German Expressionism. In 1992, the Kirchner Museum was opened in an architecturally impressive building in Davos and has since housed the world’s largest collection of his works.

Alpinum Botanical Garden

The approximately two-hectare Alpine Garden is located in the rear part of the Schatzalp area in a varied terrain. From June to September, over 3500 plant species from all the mountains of the world bloom here, e.g. high mountain flowers from the Pyrenees, New Zealand, Nepal, China or Tibet. Each plant has its own sign listing the most important characteristics. Interested visitors can learn a lot about the botanical history of the various plants in the Alpinum. The Alpinum also offers seminars and guided tours on medicinal plants and gentle gardening.

Reading benches – A nice idea for bookworms

Along walking and hiking trails in Davos and Klosters, so-called reading benches are set up from June to October. On a total of eight benches, which invite you to linger and browse, there is a box with different books for all ages. The offer of the libraries is gladly accepted and finds more and more friends every year.

Holidays with your dog – 5 dog-friendly regions in Germany

PatrickJullien
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Holidays with your dog – 5 dog-friendly regions in Germany

A family holiday with a dog is not so easy to organise in Germany. Dogs are not allowed in almost all hotels. And on many campsites or in many holiday homes, dogs are unfortunately not always welcome either.

Reason enough for us to present 5 dog-friendly regions in Germany .

  1. The Baltic Sea Fjord Schlei in Schleswig-Holstein

A popular holiday region in Schleswig-Holstein is the Baltic Sea fjord Schlei. With its many idyllic Schlei villages, the region offers everything you need for a relaxing holiday: many opportunities for cycling, walking and swimming. But also tourist attractions are not far away from here, so it is only a stone’s throw to visit the cities of Schleswig, Eckernförde or Kappeln, or to drive to the nearby Baltic Sea .

In many holiday homes on the Schlei, dogs are allowed, no, even expressly desired.

 

  1. Sankt Peter-Ording in Schleswig-Holstein

Beach chair St. Peter Ording
Beach chair in St. Peter Ording, Image: Jenny Sturm / shutterstock

Wadden hiking is not only for children and adults, dogs also have (animal) fun with it. And if you are afraid of water, you can hike along the magnificent dikes of the North Sea and enjoy a delicious crab sandwich at the snack bar of your choice.

In addition to holiday homes, campsites are particularly popular in St. Peter-Ording.

 

  1. Baltic Sea in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania

They still exist, the hotels that allow dogs. One of them, for example, is “The Grand” in the Baltic Sea resort of Ahrenshoop in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania. In addition to normal guest rooms, the (luxury) hotel also offers special rooms for dogs and their owners. Also in Ahrenshoop is the “Strandhaus Ahrenshoop”, where dogs are also allowed.

It is not easy to find hotels that allow dogs, but they can still be found in tourist hotspots.

 

  1. The Black Forest

Long walks in the deep forests of the Black Forest. And if you’re lucky, you’ll catch a few glimpses of marmots. The Black Forest offers an incredible flora and fauna that people and animals enjoy. It is not for nothing that the Black Forest attracts over 22 million visitors every year!

In addition to holiday homes and selected hotels, you will find great campsites here that also accept dogs as guests. But important: although there is no leash requirement in the Black Forest (except in the nature reserves), dogs should always stay closer and closer and not run freely into the depths of the forests.

 

  1. Camping in the Harz Mountains

If you like it a little more relaxed, we recommend camping in the Harz Mountains. Similar to the Black Forest – only not quite as big and famous – it attracts thousands and thousands of tourists every year. In the meantime, there are several providers who rent out “tent camps”. This saves you the expensive one-time purchase if you just want to try it out first.

Especially for families with children, this is an extraordinary adventure and a great idea, e.g. for just one weekend at first!

Tajikistan – Central Asia in the High Mountains

PatrickJullien
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Tajikistan – Central Asia in the High Mountains

Nestled between Kyrgyzstan, China, Afghanistan and Uzbekistan lies Central Asian Tajikistan. The country is less than half the size of Germany and has only about 9.2 million inhabitants. Tajikistan has hardly been developed for tourism so far, although the country is scenic and also has some cultural highlights to offer due to its location on the historic Silk Road.

Interesting facts and special features about Tajikistan

History and culture

Yak
View of a yak at Lake Karakul in Pamir, Image: NOWAK LUKASZ / shutterstockKaakul Lake, Tajikistan

From the sixth century BC, the territory of today’s Tajikistan was alternately under the rule of the Persians and the Saks; from about 330 BC it belonged to the empire of Alexander the Great. Other empires, such as the Mongolian empire, came and went over the centuries. Islam reached the region in the 8th century. In the Middle Ages, Tajikistan belonged to Persia. In 1868 it became a Russian colony and in 1929 it became part of the Soviet Union as the Tajik Soviet Socialist Republic.

In 1991, Tajikistan gained its independence as part of the collapse of the Soviet Union and almost immediately plunged into a civil war between the state and Islamic fundamentalists that lasted until 1997.

Due to its affiliation to different rulers and also due to its location on the Silk Road, different religions and cultures have left their mark on Tajikistan over the centuries. These include Buddhism, Christianity, Zorastrism, Manichaeism and, last but not least, Islam.

Today, about 98 percent of Tajiks are Muslims, most of them Sunnis. The remaining two percent are distributed among Christians, Zoroastrians and some Buddhists. The ancient Jewish community has only about 500 members, almost half of whom live in the country’s capital, Dushanbe. Religious freedom is officially guaranteed in Tajikistan, but in fact it is severely restricted.

The vast majority of the population of Tajikistan belongs to the Tajik ethnic group. These are ethnic Persians. The Tajik language is also a Persian dialect. Thus, Tajikistan is the only -stan state in Central Asia that does not belong to the majority of Turkic peoples. In the course of the civil war, numerous ethnic non-Tajiks have left the country.

Tajikistan is also home to a small minority of ethnic Germans, who shrank even further after the collapse of the Soviet Union.

Tajikistan has one of the youngest and fastest-growing populations in Asia.

Geography, climate and economy

Lake Yashikul in Pamir, Tajikistan
Yashikul Lake in Pamir in Tajikistan, Image: NOWAK LUKASZ / shutterstock

Tajikistan is the smallest country in Central Asia. More than two-thirds of the country’s area is high mountain, almost half of the country is over 3,000 meters. To the east are the Pamir Mountains; it is also home to the highest mountain in the country at 7,495 meters, the Ismoil Somoni Peak. To the north is the Alai Mountain Range and to the west are the Fan Mountains and the Serafshan Range. North of the Alai is the only lowland in Tajikistan, which is crossed by the largest river in the country, the Syr Darya, which allows intensive agriculture here.

The largest lake in Tajikistan is the Karakul in the east; other large lakes are Lake Sares and Lake Zorkul.

The Tajik climate is extremely continental with cold winters and hot summers. In the summer months, temperatures reach up to 45 °C. Since the amount of precipitation is also very low, steppe vegetation prevails in the country.

Economically, agriculture is very important. 43 percent of the working population work in agriculture, but only about 7 percent of the country is intensively used for agriculture at all. Cotton is mainly grown. In addition, cattle, sheep and goats are kept and silkworms are bred.

Tajikistan has reserves of oil, natural gas and lignite. In addition, ores such as tin, lead, rare earths, mercury, silver, gold and uranium occur in Tajikistan. The most important export good is aluminum. The country also exports electricity.

Cities and sights

Tajikistan Fortress
Fortress in Tajikistan, Image: Leonid Andronov / shutterstock

“The one” outstanding attraction of Tajikistan is certainly its magnificent high mountain landscape. The incredible views and wildlife make the country a dream for nature lovers, hikers and climbers.

In the west of Tajikistan lies Dushanbe, the capital and largest city of the country with 780,000 inhabitants. Dushanbe has the most important of the country’s four international airports; So, travelers will almost certainly arrive here.

Dushanbe has numerous universities and educational institutions. The National Archaeological Museum exhibits finds from the history of Tajikistan, including a 14-metre-long reclining Buddha statue found in the south of the country in 1966. It is one of the largest Buddha representations in Asia.

The Gurminj Museum is dedicated to the musical tradition of the country and its typical instruments.

One of the most striking buildings in Dushanbe is the 30-meter-high monument in honor of Ismail Somoni, who ruled the area of today’s Tajikistan 1,000 years ago and is now considered the “Father of the Nation”. The monument is located on Friendship Square.

In 2011, the world’s tallest flagpole at 165 meters was erected in front of the Palace of the Nation at a cost of five million dollars. The occasion was the celebration of the twentieth anniversary of independence. In the meantime, however, Jeddah in Saudi Arabia has an even higher mast.

Worth seeing is the Ismaili Center, completed in 2009, a meeting place for Ismaili Shiites and one of only six such places in the world.

The second largest city in Tajikistan with 172,000 inhabitants is Chudchand. It is possible that Khudchand originated from the city of Alexandria Eschatê, founded by Alexander the Great. This is not certain, but nevertheless in 1986 the two thousand five hundredth year of the founding of the city was celebrated. Khudchand was once an important trading hub of the Silk Road. Near the city is the Kairakkum Reservoir, the largest in Tajikistan in terms of area. Khudchand is very isolated, it is surrounded on three sides by Uzbekistan and cut off from the rest of Tajikistan by a mountain range.

Another city worth mentioning is Chorugh. Chorugh has about 28,000 inhabitants and is located directly on the Afghan border. It is surrounded by the mountains of the Pamir Mountains; these are up to 5,300 meters high here. Chorugh has a well-known botanical garden, which enjoys a very good reputation in professional circles.

Finally, Punjikent is a city of 35,000 inhabitants in western Tajikistan. It is located right next to the ruined city of Old Panjakent, which was a trading center of the Silk Road in its heyday in the eighth century and was only about 80 kilometers from Samarkand.

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