On the Spanish Mediterranean coast, the port city of Tarragona is located about 100 kilometers southwest of Barcelona. The Roman amphitheatre offers magnificent views of the sea and the fine golden sandy beaches of the Costa Dorada. The real sensation of the city, however, are the human towers that are built here by the Tarragonese. The Catalans call them the Castells, which have become an authentic part of Catalan culture for over 200 years.
Monument of the Human Towers in Tarragona (Monument as castellers), Image: Alexey Broslavets / shutterstock
In the early 19th century, Catalonia came up with the idea of showing the skill and power of the Catalans with human towers that rise high into the sky, thus manifesting the majesty of the culture and the people here. By the middle of the 19th century, the impressive Castells had spread throughout Catalonia and began to develop into a centre of regional identity in Tarragona.
The Castells became higher and higher until social crises, the First World War and later the Spanish Civil War led to a widespread collapse of the Castells. After the Second World War, a new period of prosperity began, with Barcelona and today Tarragona becoming the centre. The modern mass media led to ever new competitions and increased the ambition of the Castellers. Today, prestigious competitions between the various Castellers groups take place throughout the country, creating unique cultural events. Previously unthinkable constructions were realized. Since 1980, there has been talk of a golden age for the Castells.
The culture and technology of the Castells
Photograph of the annual Human Tower Competition in Tarragona, Image: David Ortega Baglietto / shutterstock
The Castellers who build the Castells are organized in local groups that compete with each other. Everyone wants to build the most beautiful and best Castell. The event includes exact techniques and a variety of rituals. The Castells can be between 2 and 9 men strong and eight, nine or ten and even more levels high. Musicians accompany the event with their Catalan drums and shawms. The strong always support the weak.
The Castells, which can contain very different foundations and many floors, are planned using sophisticated technology. The Castells, symbols of the cooperation of the Catalans in the community, are built in the central squares, in Tarragona usually in front of the cathedral or in the Rambla Nova. Here is one of the monuments to the human towers often found in Catalonia, in which the faces of well-known artists such as Pablo Picasso, cellist Casals and Joan Miró have been incorporated.
Castells in Tarragona today
During the summer season, a Castell is erected every Wednesday evening at 8 p.m. in front of the cathedral in the Plaza de la Seu. Other highlights can be found at Plaza Santiago Rusiñol. On some days throughout the summer until late autumn, large parties are celebrated with several Castellers groups. Brave visitors to Tarragona actively participate in Castells workshops organised by the Tourist Office. In autumn, a competition of Catalan Castellers groups is celebrated in the Tarragona Arena. The homepage of the tourist office provides information about dates.
There are many reasons why you don’t want to do without your bike even on vacation. Wherever the holiday trip is to go, the holiday region can be wonderfully explored by bike. If you have planned a trip, the question naturally arises as to how best to transport the bike. Whether by car, bus, train or plane, suitable solutions can be found everywhere.
If you often travel by bike at home, you probably already have a corresponding device mounted on your car to be able to transport your bike safely. In general, it is possible to transport the bike on the roof of the car, on a hitch or rear carrier or inside the car. If you have planned a longer trip, you will hardly be able to do without the necessary space in the interior for the bike, as there are many other pieces of luggage to transport.
Probably the most popular variant is the clutch carrier. Compared to transport on the roof of a car, this variant is more fuel-efficient and safer. With a high-quality carrier, the bicycles can be optimally secured. In addition, the bike can be easily attached.
The bike may be too heavy to lift onto the roof of the car. When buying a bicycle rack, you should make sure that the carrier has been checked, for example by the TÜF or DEKRA. Another point is the comfort of the wearer. Some models can be folded or folded down. Flexible holder arms make it easy to attach the wheels. For more information on buying bike racks, visit heuts.de.
Transportation by bus or train
Image: franz12 / shutterstock
If you are travelling on holiday by coach, it is essential to check with the travel provider beforehand whether bicycle transport is an option at all. Some buses have an extra trailer for bikes, but this depends entirely on the provider.
If you are planning to go on holiday by train, there are various options. Of course, the bicycle can be taken on most Deutsche Bahn trains without any problems. No separate registration is necessary on local trains.
However, if you are going on holiday by IC or ICE, you should include your bicycle when ordering your ticket. Taking it abroad is also no problem. As a rule, bicycles may be taken on trains in the following countries: Hungary, the Czech Republic, Poland, Denmark, France, Italy, the Netherlands, Luxembourg, Austria, Switzerland and Slovakia. However, if you cross the border by bike, you need an international cycling map. This can be purchased from Deutsche Bahn for 10 euros (as of 2019).
Another option that Deutsche Bahn offers its customers is to ship bicycles to the desired destination. When you arrive, you no longer have to take care of the bike yourself. Deutsche Bahn will send it to the holiday destination in advance. The bike will be picked up directly at home.
Transportation by plane
Image: TeeTee Photo / shutterstock
Many long-haul destinations are best reached by plane. If the bicycle is to be taken with you here as well, the luggage regulations of the individual airlines must be observed. There are also airlines where a bicycle can be taken along as free baggage. With other airlines, the bicycle is part of the special baggage and additional costs are charged. In addition, you should clarify before departure whether the bike must be registered before the trip. There are deadlines ranging from 30 minutes before departure to 48 hours before departure.
The different airlines also have different regulations on how the bicycle must be packed in a flight-proof manner. Usually in a bicycle bag or a cardboard box. It is advisable to unscrew the pedals and release the pressure from the tires. In some cases, baggage handlers are very rough with luggage. It is a good idea to think about appropriate transport insurance for the bicycle. Depending on how high quality the bike is.
In the Andaman Sea in the south-west of Thailand lie the Phi Phi Islands. Formerly an insider tip, today one of the most popular destinations for visitors to Thailand from all over the world. Strictly speaking, Koh Phi Phi consists of a main island (Phi Phi Don), an important side island (Phi Phi Leh) and several small islands inhabited by a small number of local fishermen.
Koh Phi Phi is part of the Krabi region of Thailand. The journey is usually via the mainland from the direction of Krabi or from the well-known Phuket peninsula, exclusively by boat. Both Krabi and Phuket have their own airports, which are served daily by domestic flights, e.g. from Bangkok.
In the larger holiday resorts on the mainland, a wide variety of day trips are offered, allowing travellers to explore the islands comfortably and safely as part of a guided tour. If you prefer to go out on your own and spend more time in this area, you can easily rent a hotel on the main island of Phi Phi Don and stay there for a few days. A transfer to the neighboring island of Phi Phi Ley is possible at different times of the day.
Koh Phi Phi Don – The Main Island
The main island also sees itself as such and is the only inhabited island of the Phi Phi Islands. There are hotels of various price ranges, souvenir shops, shops for daily needs, a lively nightlife and several beautiful beaches. What you won’t find on the relatively small island are cars and “real” or even many roads. Life is raging in the settlement of Ton Sai. In this village with a large “arrival pier” you will find everything your heart desires as soon as you arrive. Numerous restaurants (serving Western or traditional Thai food), massage parlors, supermarkets and small stalls are the first to be found.
Image: lkunl/shutterstock
As the first “port of call” for day trippers, the village and the beach of the same name are of course very well visited and therefore not necessarily everyone’s cup of tea. That’s not a big deal, because the island offers several, sometimes much quieter beaches, which can be reached quickly due to the short distances. You will be dazzled by the fine, light sand at Loh Dalam Beach, Had Yao Beach (Long Beach) or Phak Nam Beach, for example. Of course, in the usual Thailand manner with clear, turquoise water. If you like diving or snorkeling, Phi Phi Don is also the right place for you. The underwater world of the island is a famous and popular diving spot for amateur and professional divers. A particularly beautiful view over the sea and the bay is offered by the Koh Phi Phi Viewpoint, which is located a little inland on the island.
Koh Phi Phi Leh – Simply “The Beach”
Of course, the island became famous through the Hollywood movie “The Beach” and of course it has been very, very busy (some say crowded) since that time and yet: It is the beach of all beaches!
Already on arrival (by boat from Phi Phi Don, Krabi, Phuket or Koh Lanta), the huge rocks that surround the bay seem to “push open” in a unique way and reveal the view of the bay. After entering the bay, the engine is switched off by the speedboat or longtail boat captain and you glide towards the beach. The clear waters provide an uninterrupted view of the bottom as you head towards the white sands of Maya Bay.
For almost everyone who arrives here for the first time, this sight burns itself into their minds.
The beach and turquoise waters are the absolute highlight of the uninhabited island, which is now a national park. Away from the bay, the island consists mainly of rocks covered by palm trees and jungle and is inaccessible to visitors. As already mentioned, the government of Thailand has designated the island as a national park and has appointed “park rangers” to make sure that the “island rules” are observed. Public toilets, a small kiosk and sufficient rubbish bins ensure a smooth process for visitors.
Koh Phi Phi – A well-known paradise
The “fame” of the Hollywood movie “The Beach” has made the islands one of the most visited attractions in Thailand. Although visitors have to be prepared to share this pearl of Southeast Asia with many more people, this place is still worth a visit. Because one thing is certain: “The Beach” looks as wonderful live, with your own eyes as in the film and is a unique experience.
Would you like to go on holiday by car this summer holiday and avoid flying? Croatia offers the ideal destination for every holiday idea, because the diversity and landscapes of this country are incomparable and are among the most varied in Europe. Here you realize again that you don’t have to fly far to discover the natural beauties of this earth.
Plitvice Lake District, Image: Mada_Cris / shutterstock
Let’s start in the north of Croatia: By car, it is definitely worth taking a detour to the famous Plitvice Lake District. You should plan at least one day here, because the imposing national park offers an incredible variety of nature and is characterized by countless waterfalls, lakes and small rivers. Nature lovers will probably take their breath away. The crystal-clear water and the contrasting lush green nature interspersed with waterfalls and stone rocks is something very special. It is not for nothing that this park has been declared part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site and is known worldwide. Various hiking trails run along the shore or offer the opportunity to cross the water through stone steps. Important: There is no swimming opportunity in the national park.
The Plitvice Lakes have become very touristy, so a visit during the week is recommended. Apart from the Lake District, the north is much less visited than the south of the country, where most of the tourist resorts and beaches are located.
Dalmatia, Image: Kite_rin / shutterstock
Once in Dalmatia, it is advisable to book accommodation in a central location, for example in Makarska , and take day trips to the region. If you are in the mood for a sailing trip: The Dalmatia region is absolutely recommended! Due to the more than 1,000 offshore islands, you have the opportunity to get to the most untouched spots by sailboat, enjoy the play of colors of the water in all its splendor and avoid tourism on the coast. By the way, you can also easily book a skipper who will drive you safely through the Adriatic Sea. Professional companions usually have a separate area at the front of the boats, so that you can still enjoy your holiday undisturbed. Especially for larger groups, a blessing trip is particularly worthwhile in terms of price. During nice evenings in the Croatian ports, you will get to know many different holidaymakers from all over the world, because sailing connects!
By sailboat, but also as an excursion on a tourist boat from Split or Trogir (15 and 7 km away), you have the opportunity to get to an absolutely paradisiacal place: The “Blue Lagoon“. The lagoon is part of a beach on the small island “Drvenik Veli”, in front of which you can anchor very well. The different colors of the sea are particularly pronounced here and it is fantastic to spend a day here in, on and under water. You will find the perfect conditions for SUP, snorkeling, swimming or sunbathing. For lunch, small fish restaurants are available on the beach. Word of the beauty of the lagoon has gotten around, so the same applies here: Avoid the holiday periods and weekends if you have alternative options.
Would you like to take a leisurely, evening stroll through the city during your holiday? Would you like to visit a small market and then enjoy the sunset with a glass of wine? Then the small town of Trogir is highly recommended! The small Trogir, characterized by Venetian features, is sometimes forgotten due to the nearest city of Split (30 km away). This beautiful little town has a very special flair and has even been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1997. The enchanted alleys, the hip restaurants and boutiques, live concerts on the street and the small harbour make this place an absolute highlight. Compared to Split, a stroll through the city or a relaxed evening at the harbor is much less stressful and contemplative. It is especially worthwhile to browse through the many small art shops, look for particularly individual treasures and get involved in a conversation with the local traders. The special hospitality of the Croats is more than clear here. A good restaurant tip (although not typically Croatian): The hip restaurant “Bubalus Burger Bar”.
If you want to use Trogir as a full-day trip, this is of course also possible without any problems. The town is connected to the Ciovo peninsula by a bridge, where you will find perfect swimming spots with turquoise sea! Thanks to access aids directly into the sea, the stony coast is no problem at all.
Island of Brač
Brač, Image: paul prescott / shutterstock
Probably the most beautiful beach in the region is the island of Brač with the so-called “Golden Horn”. The island is located directly in front of the city of Split and can be easily reached from there by car ferry. The beach has the shape of a horn – hence the name – and protrudes several hundred meters into the sea, so that beach sections can be reached from both sides. Especially at the top of the horn, you will find the wonderful color of the sea typical of Croatia. Water sports enthusiasts such as kitesurfers in particular get their money’s worth here. There are some small restaurants and beach bars on the peninsula, so that the physical well-being is also taken care of.
Krka National Park
A detour to the “Krka National Park” should not be missed in any Croatia holiday! The park has one of the best-preserved ecosystems in the country and is a waterfall lover’s dream. Unlike Plitvice Lakes, you can even get into the cold water and swim to various waterfalls! Of course, word of the beauty of the park has gotten around in the meantime, so that there are quite a few tourists in the summer months. Be sure to plan the whole day in the national park – it’s worth it. With long hikes, idyllic walks, swimming stops and breaks in various restaurants, a day in this dreamlike setting can be easily filled.
Cambodia is a very special country in Southeast Asia. Immerse yourself in the millennia-old culture of the ancient Khmer, experience the megacity of Phnom Penh, experience French flair in the small towns or relax on the beaches of Sihanoukville.
Cambodia was badly shaken in the second half of the 20th century and suffered under the dictatorship of the cruel ruler Pol Pot. Even though the country has since recovered, a visit to Cambodia would not be complete without dealing with the country’s history. Despite their past, Cambodians are now a very hospitable people and warmly welcome visitors from all over the world. Cambodia has an indescribable variety of paradisiacal jungle, venerable culture, snow-white beaches and vibrant life.
Most people come to Cambodia to visit the abandoned city of Angkor. You should plan at least three days for this. Because the sunken city and the temples, which have since been excavated, are unique in the world. During your visit, immerse yourself in a bygone era. Wander between larger-than-life statues, tree-topped tree roots and filigree handiwork. Among the highlights in Angkor are certainly the temple complex Angkor Wat, the “Tomb Raider Temple” Ta Prohm or the Bayon Temple with its huge faces. The temple complexes exude a special magic at dawn and dusk. The starting point for a visit is the town of Siem Reap, which has an excellent infrastructure. Restaurants, markets, shops and events are just waiting to be explored by visitors.
Vibrant Phnom Penh
The Royal Palace in Phnom Penh, Image: RPBaiao / shutterstock
A contrast to the dreamy Siem Reap is Phnom Penh. The capital of the country is home to about 1.5 million people and it feels like there are just as many motorcycles and tuk-tuks driving through the streets. It can be a real adventure to cross the street in Phnom Penh. Even in Phnom Penh, probably very few people dare to drive a car. However, cheap taxis and tuk-tuks take holidaymakers comfortably to the sights. Among the most famous sights are the Royal Palace and the historic Buddhist temple Wat Phnom. However, a visit to Phnom Penh is not complete without dealing with the Pol Pot regime. That’s why a visit to the Killing Fields and Tuol Sleng Prison is also part of a visit to the capital.
White Beaches of Sihanoukville
If you feel like relaxing after visiting Phnom Penh, you should head to the south of the country. The white beaches of Sihanoukville invite you to relax. The most famous of the beaches is Otres Beach. Since it has long since ceased to be an insider tip, there is a lot going on here. But the whole area invites you to unwind and relax.
Dolphin watching in Krati
Animal lovers should add the city of Krati to their list. From there, boat tours to the Irrawaddy dolphins can be organized. A sighting of the marine mammals is a real highlight on every holiday and is sure to be remembered for a long time.
Small towns with French flair: Battambang and Kampot
If you want it a little quieter, you should pay a visit to the cities of Battambang or Kampot. The city of Kampot with its many cafes is a wonderful starting point for exploring the nature of the surrounding area. From Battambang you can take great boat trips into nature.
Specialties of Cambodia
Beach in Sihanoukville, Image: Aleksandar Todorovic / shutterstock
Cambodian cuisine is diverse, colorful and spicy. The classic Asian curry dishes can be found on many menus. A popular curry dish is Amok, which is served with beef, chicken, or shrimp. Lok Lak is widespread throughout the country. This is a seasoned beef dish with a fried egg. You can also enjoy a typical ice-cold Angkor beer. In Cambodia, however, there are also all kinds of curiosities that you can try. The street markets in Phnom Penh offer fried spiders, maggots and all kinds of other insects. And snake meat or frog legs can also be found on many a menu. For dessert, Cha Houy Teuk beckons. The street food dish is a mixture of jelly, coconut cream, sago and mung beans.
Travel time and weather
The best time to travel to Cambodia is when it is winter in Germany , from November to February. The temperatures are then not sweltering hot and, above all, it is dry. If you visit Cambodia at any other time of the year, you have to expect rain and persistently high humidity. However, a visit to Cambodia outside the main travel season has one advantage: Especially in Angkor it is not so crowded and in addition, the vegetation is in full splendor in summer and the rainforest shows itself in full bloom.
Lots of sun, water sports and diving experiences and wild nature await the visitor on Lampedusa and its sisters, the Pelagie Islands of Lampione and Linosa. The Pelagie Islands in Italy are the southernmost point of the European Union. These tiny dots in the Mediterranean are natural paradises. They mainly attract tourists who are looking for beautiful bays and beautiful sandy beaches in summer.
Crystal-clear, turquoise water with a view of the shallow bottom washes the coasts. The waves break wildly on the cliffs in the north and east of the island. The situation is completely different in the south. Snow-white sandy beaches delight sunbathers, divers and swimmers. Beaches such as Cala Madonna and Porto N’Tone, located in a bay, are ideal for families with children. At the Mare Morto beach, a large cave allows fascinating insights into the depths of the earth. Other mysterious grottoes captivate visitors to Cala Pulcino. The fashionable Guitgia beach is regularly served by public transport. On some beaches, people spend nights celebrating under the stars with grooved fish dishes and music.
Water sports on Lampedusa
Several diving schools offer courses, the highlights of which are joint dives in the clear sea and the touching experience of the flora and fauna under water. The Madonna Mare and Child stands at a depth of 14 meters on the seabed. There, green seagrass meadows with posidonia form important ecosystems. At Taccio Vecchio, parrot fishermen wait for their diving visitors in the underwater grotto there. Behind the Isola dei Conigli you can find underwater treasures such as star corals, colorful sponges, red crabs, perch and moray eels during the dives.
Coloured nature
A few forests in the southern valleys bring cooling and variety to the landscape. The island of Lampedusa otherwise looks like a rocky plateau for long stretches. A wide variety of colourful flowers of the exotic species delight hikers in the valleys. There it can meet flowers such as milk thistle, cistus with small flowers, silk stain and other exotic plants. Some, such as the small wild carrot or onion plant, as well as some adorable orchids, only grow here on Lampedusa.
Small boats and ships are moored in the harbours and are happy to take the traveller out to sea. It takes about three to four hours to circumnavigate the island once. Meanwhile, the boat driver serves a fish meal. Cooling cocktails are served in the beach bars. Peace and enjoyment, sun and beautiful nature rule the islands. Sea turtles can occasionally be found in the bays.
In the month of April, sperm whales are observed on the north coast. Many of these beautiful animals lay their eggs at the Isola dei Conigli, a few meters off the coast, where a walk over the very shallow seabed takes the visitor. Boats are prohibited there. In the evening, simple Italian cuisine, enriched here and there with African influences such as cous-cous, is enjoyed in the countless restaurants and trattorias. Goods that have been harvested or fished on the island are usually served. Seafood is most often found on the loaded plates.
Lampedusa, the place
The port of Lampedusa, Image: bepsy / shutterstock
In Lampedusa on the east coast, the original, historic buildings are largely preserved and not destroyed by Bettenburger. Life is concentrated in the lively harbour, where fishermen bring their catch ashore in the morning along Cala Palma. Many restaurants on Lampedusa are grouped around the harbour. Visitors particularly praise the Sciuri e Fava in Via Giovanni Verga. After dinner or in the afternoon, the bars around the harbour are well frequented. Hotels of all price ranges can be booked on Lampedusa. The island is reached by plane or ferry from Sicily .
The sister islands
Lampione, located 17 kilometers northwest of Lampedusa, is uninhabited. On the other hand, there are 500 inhabitants on Linosa, whose shape is characterized by three extinct volcanoes. This gem is rich in vegetation. Large parts of the island are protected to protect the endangered hawksbill turtles. The inhabitants live from fishing and agriculture and, more recently, from tourism, since some hotels have opened on the Linosa. Linosal can be reached from Lampedusa by hydrofoils. There storks, kestrels, rows, flamingos and gazelles are encountered in the wild.
The twin brothers Paul and Hansen Hoepner are adventurers in search of extreme situations. After they had already taken one or two longer bike tours together, they cycled together from Berlin to Shanghai in 2012. A distance of more than 13,500 KM with 60 kilograms of luggage.
The Hoepner twins Paul & Hansen, picture: Paul and Hansen Hoepner
In 2015, a trip around the world followed. The special thing about it was that they started the journey without money and financed it with self-made souvenirs with materials from the street as well as casual jobs.
Now the next experiment is on the agenda: With a self-built, pedal-powered amphibious vehicle called Urmel, they want to drive 4,000 KM through Alaska .
In this interview, we talk to Paul Hoepner about interesting countries and how to prepare for the adventure in the ice.
On your adventure “Around the World in 80 Days – Without Money” you got to know some countries. Where did you personally like it best?
That varies. Since we are more Nordic types, we liked Canada very much. Canada is also unbeatable when it comes to hospitality. I have rarely experienced a country where you are practically passed from door to door.
If you are looking for border experiences and a little adventure, India can certainly be recommended. It is exciting to observe how different cultures collide here. That’s a huge difference to the Western cultures in North America or Europe.
At least I wouldn’t recommend someone who has no travel experience at all to live on the streets in India. In Canada, on the other hand, it is quite possible to travel around without money.
Are you still in contact with people you met on the trip?
Nam from Bangkok later even studied in Germany and we were able to help her find an apartment. We still have a very close connection – even though she is now back in Thailand . Thanks to social media, however, people still sporadically keep in touch with many others.
Hansen fell ill with dengue fever on the trip. This is also very common in popular travel destinations such as the Maldives. While reading, I had the feeling that the disease had hit extremely hard here. Was there ever a conversation with the doctor, who then said that the outbreak was particularly severe due to the weakened bodies of the long journey?
There are certainly many reasons for this. Of course, the physical condition after the long journey could also have played a role. But certainly also the medical mistreatment in Moscow, because the cause was not known and therefore it could not be treated properly.
In the case of dengue fever, it varies from person to person. It would also be possible that you had it for the second time and then it breaks out more strongly. It is often recommended not to go to these areas at all if you have already been ill once.
Do you actually go on vacation “normally” or do you always have to have a little adventure with you?
We are already on “normal” vacation. I was just on the French Atlantic coast for a few days and looked at the landscape near Bordeaux . Although I also hitchhiked there. So there has to be a little adventure.
Model of Urmel, Image: Paul and Hansen Hoepner
The next adventure is coming up. You are planning a journey – 4,000 KM through Alaska – with a self-designed and built amphibious vehicle called Urmel. – How did you come up with this idea?
It’s a combination of two dreams: We’ve always wanted to go to Alaska because this “call of the wild” is so strong in our country. On the other hand, we have always wanted to build a vehicle that can drive anywhere and contribute our skills to the development there.
The combination of both coupled with our outdoor experience finally led to the project.
You postponed the trip from August to December. Will it make it even colder? To what extent does this influence or complicate your planning?
It doesn’t actually get any colder, as we have planned to stay in Alaska until the end of winter anyway. Our goal was also to be on the ice, hence the project name “Two in the Ice”. The only minor difference is that we will not reach the Arctic Circle until the new year, and thus the days are already getting brighter again.
How do you prepare for the stresses? On your trip around the world, you could have “theoretically” broken off and pulled out the emergency credit card.
A large part of the preparation is certainly our previous trips. The practice and the knowledge that you can function well together in difficult situations. That you have gained experience with your own resilience limit – physically and mentally.
Our panic threshold is very high, especially when we are on the road together. That’s why we feel ready to tackle such a project.
Of course, such an adventure trip costs a lot of money. How do you finance yourself and how can you be supported?
In addition to our sponsors, we have a donation option on our website (hoepner-hoepner.de/support/) We always display it in our Youtube vlog . In addition, we will soon be able to be supported via a livecam in our workshop. It works like this: There is a piggy bank in front of the webcam and when you pay one euro you unlock the webcam, the piggy bank drives through the workshop and you can watch us at work.
The location of Nouvelle Aquitaine in France, Image: Turkas / shutterstock
One of the most scenic holiday regions in France is located in the southwest of the country. Nouvelle-Aquitaine offers contrasting landscapes, authentic places and breathtakingly beautiful flora. With its mild climate, inviting beaches, charming towns and unique sights, the region is an unforgettable destination.
“Pure nature” – this is the perfect way to describe the inviting region of Nouvelle Aquitaine. If you visit the southwest of France, you should plan a lot of time for outdoor activities, because hardly any other destination offers so many enchanting natural excursion destinations. Especially bike tours, because they allow you to enjoy the landscape to the fullest. But even if you set off with hiking boots and a backpack, you will very quickly be enchanted by the natural beauty that can be discovered throughout the region.
The magnificent forests of the region are just as attractive as the waterfall in Gimpel or the lake of Vassivière. Inland, the numerous lakes are particularly attractive. Among other things, the lake of Soustons invites you to sail, row, surf and stand-up paddle boarding or yoga paddling. The lake of Seignosse is quieter and more romantic. A trip to the lake of Arjuzanx is fantastic for families, because cranes can be observed up close here. Basically, the region offers wonderfully quiet places that invite you to relax and enjoy, so that everyone can discover their own personal highlights for themselves.
Atlantic coast – beautiful beaches meet traditional spa and seaside resorts
Basta Rock in Biarritz, Image: Luke SW / shutterstock
In addition to fine sandy beaches, numerous bathing and health resorts are spread over a good 720 kilometres of coastline. Numerous marinas provide maritime flair. The beaches of the Nouvelle Aquitaine region not only attract bathers who want to relax and unwind on the quiet stretches of beach, but also surfers appreciate the hotspots around Lacanau, Hossegor and Biarritz . Of course, excursions to the islands of Île de Ré and Île d’Oléron are very popular.
On tours along the coast, places like La Rochelle and Hendaye beckon. But the thermal baths of Cambo Les Bains, Saujon, Evaux-les-Bains and Dax are also very popular and are among the best in the country. In the Nouvelle Aquitaine region, vinotherapy is also offered, which is a special experience for wellness enthusiasts. One of the most famous destinations in the region is the 100-metre-high Dune du Pilat, known as Europe’s highest dune, located on the Bay of Arcachon .
The World Heritage Sites of Nouvelle Aquitaine
Dordogne, Image: Francisco Javier Gil / shutterstock
If you choose Nouvelle Aquitaine as your destination, you should not miss out on the cultural richness of the region. World Heritage Sites such as the Lascaux Cave are among the breathtaking sights of the region. Particularly worth seeing is the valley of the Vezère, which, together with the neighboring valley of the Dordogne, offers 15 World Heritage Sites. The valleys are therefore often referred to as “the cradle of mankind”.
But Nouvelle Aquitaine has many other historical sites that offer unique insights into history. A visit to the Henri IV Castle in Pau is highly recommended. Today, the castle is used as an exhibition space by the National Museum. Another highlight is the National Museum of Porcelain in Limoges. A special gem are the churches of Saint Léonard de Noblat near Limoges and Saint-Front in Périgueux. These are located on the Via Lemovicensis and are the starting point for many pilgrims on their way to Santiago di Compostela.
Bordeaux is one of the many villages and towns in the region that are worth seeing. A good half of the area of the well-known city is considered particularly worthy of protection and has been listed by UNESCO as an “extraordinary urban and architectural ensemble”.
Unforgettable places to visit in the Nouvelle Aquitaine region
Even those who love more unusual places will rave about a stay in the southwest of France long after their holiday. A very special place is, among other things, the bamboo park in the Périgord in Le Buisson de Cadouin. It offers a tropical ambience and invites you to take long walks, because entire forests of bamboo have grown here. In addition, the park offers a Zen rock garden that encourages meditation and is also ideal for simply enjoying the peaceful tranquility of this place.
Aubazine, Image: Francky38 / shutterstock
The cave of Proumeyssac with the crystal cathedral, on the other hand, is a place that shines with its indescribable beauty. In a 40 m high vault there is a fantastically decorated room. Uniquely beautiful natural stone ornaments, petrified fountains decorate the stalactite cave.
Visitors to the town of Aubazine can walk in the footsteps of Coco Chanel. The monastery complex located here is one of the oldest in France. The medieval abbey once included an orphanage where Gabrielle Chanel lived from the age of 12 until her 18th birthday. With dreamlike stained glass windows and detailed church art, the monastery complex is a gem that inspired and shaped Gabrielle Chanel.
The pleasure region of Nouvelle Aquitaine
However, southwestern France is also a true oasis for connoisseurs. Novelle Aquitaine is particularly known for excellent red wines, which are pressed in Bordeaux, Bergerax, Cognac, Dura and Armagnac, among others. Accordingly, visits directly to the winegrowers on site are recommended, who of course also offer tastings and are happy to provide a look into the wine cellars.
The region is as varied in culinary terms as it is scenic, because while the coastal region offers oysters, the Basque Country produces the legendary Bayonne ham. Ossau Iraty, on the other hand, is known for sheep’s cheese, while hot peppers are grown in Espelette. But melons, strawberries and much more are also grown in the region.
Due to the variety of regional products, the cuisine of Nouvelle Aquitaine has always been multi-layered and so it is not surprising that today there are over 50 restaurants in the region that stand out with one or more Michelin stars. But good food in the Novelle Aquitaine region is not dependent on stars and so there are delicious wines and excellent food in almost every restaurant.
Are you interested in a holiday on the Caribbean island of Cuba and would like to receive more important information about the country, the culture and the local conditions? In the following, you will be presented with the perfect beginner’s round trip with approx. 14 days and departure from/to Havana. A mixture of city, nature and beach is optimally combined here. Join us on an eventful Cuba discovery tour.
The individual stops of the round trip are easy to manage by bus (Viazul) (advance reservation is highly recommended here) and are very inexpensive. Would you like to do the round trip independently by car? Don’t be surprised about the high car rental prices. Cuba is not a destination designed for rental car tours. The selection of cars is very limited and the quality is not comparable to European standards.
A visit to the capital Havana on your Cuba vacation is an absolute must. The small alleys are characterized by American vintage cars and colorful houses in need of renovation, which nevertheless exude a very special charm. On every corner you can hear typical Cuban music.
Locals and visitors dance salsa on the street to the live music of a traditional Cuban band, spectators drink mojito and bob to the beat. The positive attitude to life, the enthusiasm for music and the uncomplicated way of life of the Cubans can be felt everywhere. You will quickly give up the search for tourist shops or European super markets, because Havana is different – in a positive sense.
Be prepared for the fact that you can only get selected food in the living room next door, which has been converted into a small shop. The products are classified in sales, which means that travelers and locals do not get the same thing in the store every day. Fruit and vegetables – of course only seasonal – are best bought from the friendly Cuban street vendors.
Import and export are severely restricted in the country due to the political conditions. The socialist system is still clearly noticeable here. But isn’t that why it makes the country particularly interesting and attractive?
By the way, a ferry ride to the other side of the city to Casa Blanca is also very worthwhile. The cost of the public ferry is limited to a few euros. On a hill stands a large sculpture of Jesus that watches over the bay of Havana. An impressive photo motif of the city is guaranteed here! If you feel like a bit of history, you can also take a look at the former home of the famous freedom fighter “Che Guevara”, who still stands for communism in the country and is celebrated as a national hero by young and old. “La Cabana de Che Guevara” is located right next to the Jesus statue and now houses a museum.
Cuba Discovery Tour: Valle de Viñales
Valle de Viñales, Image: Marc Venema / shutterstock
After the intense impressions of the capital, a trip into nature is the perfect contrast. The Valley of Viñales can be reached from Havana in two hours, perfect for a day trip. Nature is unique and overwhelming. The typical limestone mountains, which stand like sugar loafs on a plain, exist only twice in the world: in Vinales in Cuba and in Halong Bay in northeastern Vietnam.
With a horseback ride or a guided tour, you can explore all the beauty of the region in one day. You can easily book various worthwhile excursions in most hotels or tourist offices. A visit to a tobacco plantation and/or a cigar factory is usually integrated and very interesting, because the region is famous for this.
So if you are thinking about a souvenir for those who stayed at home – this would be the perfect place to shop. Cigars, rum, honey and coffee from the region taste great and are also the typical products of Cuba.
Trinidad
Trinidad, Image: rphstock / shutterstock
If you want to explore another city that is well worth seeing, Trinidad is a good place to complement it. Take advantage of the opportunity of an excursion here and stay in the city for several days. A direct bus connection is possible from Havana and takes about six hours. Day trips to Trinidad are also offered from Varadero , which is not recommended due to the distance. In addition, the city offers the perfect backdrop for salsa dancing in the evening with many great locations – of course it’s also worth watching here.
Trinidad has a more southern feel than Havana and is known for its colorful houses that shine in all colors. It is also a little more touristy. You will find a few souvenir shops and some European-inspired restaurants. If you stay for several days, there are excursions to various small and large waterfalls in the region, with the possibility of swimming. The nearby “Playa Ancon” is also highly recommended as a beach day, because it is very spacious, fine sand and has fantastic clear water to offer.
A very special tip: You should definitely try the famous cocktail “Canchanchara” in the small bar “La Chanchanchara“. The drink is typical of the city, is served in small pretty clay cups and tastes great!
The Gulf of Thailand is famous for its picturesque landscapes. Dreamlike beaches, thundering waterfalls, untouched jungle paired with the infectious carefree attitude and joie de vivre of the locals ensure that the area in the south of the country has been one of the most popular holiday destinations for years. First and foremost is the Samui archipelago, whose second largest island Koh Phangan was once considered an insider tip and true backpacker’s paradise.
Known for the legendary fullmoon parties, the island was long in the tourist shadow of its larger neighbor Koh Samui. However, it is no less attractive as a travel destination. On the contrary, mass tourism has not yet arrived here and everything seems a little more original.
Romantic atmosphere in Koh Phangan, Image: Anna Ewa Bieniek / shutterstock
Koh Phangan is located about 60 kilometers northeast of the mainland. Long sandy beaches, picturesque bays and almost untouched jungle extend over around 125 square kilometres. The interior of the island is mostly hilly and surprises with many natural spectacles such as the numerous waterfalls in the middle of the rainforest.
The most famous of them, the Than Sadet in the national park of the same name, has already captivated several kings of Thailand. The network of paths is relatively well developed and offers opportunities to explore nature in all its facets by mountain bike or scooter. But be careful – due to the sometimes difficult to see curves and the often risky driving style of the locals, extreme caution is required here.
At 627 meters, Khao Ra is the highest mountain on the island and is also ideal for a trekking tour for inexperienced hikers. The paths to the summit are well signposted and once there you have a fantastic view of the bay of Koh Ma and Chaloklum.
Dream beaches as far as the eye can see
Koh Phangan is best known for its beaches. There are more than 30 – from deserted dream beaches to lively party beaches. The most famous is undoubtedly the Haad Rin Nok, where thousands of partygoers regularly make a pilgrimage to the Full Moon Party. On these days, undisturbed idleness is certainly out of the question here, but apart from Full Moon, the Haad Rin is quite a charming spot of sand that invites you to relax.
Meanwhile, things are less turbulent further north at Bottle Beach, which is best reached by one of the traditional longtail boats that serve as water taxis on the island. Haad Salad Beach with its countless coconut palms or the fine sandy Haad Yao Beach also attract visitors to the north of the island. However, most of the beaches can be found on the west side, of which the Haad Mae Haad with the offshore island of Koh Ma and the Haad Chao Pao are among the must-see destinations of a Koh Phangan holiday.
In the northeast, the small village of Thong Nai Pan with its two picturesque bays Thong Nai Pan Yai and Thong Nai Pan Noi is worth a detour. Most of Koh Phangan’s beaches are characterized by white powder sand and gently sloping, turquoise water, which also makes them attractive for families with children. In addition, off the west coast of the island there is a true paradise for snorkelers and divers. Between Srithanu Beach and the island of Koh Ma stretches a coral reef about ten kilometers long with a great diversity of species under water. Numerous diving schools also offer courses or one-time diving excursions.
Koh Phangan – From insider tip to popular holiday destination
Image: SenSeHi / shutterstock
Over the years, Koh Phangan has developed from a former insider tip for backpackers and hippies to a popular holiday island. The tourist infrastructure is now well developed, although the island has largely retained its original character. In contrast to its “bigger sister” Koh Samui , Koh Phangan does not have an airport and can only be reached by ferry. However, these run regularly from the provincial capital Surat Thani from the mainland or from Bo Phut on Koh Samui. In addition, there are fixed ferry connections to the northern neighboring island of Koh Tao. The main town of the island is called Thong Sala, where a good half of the local population lives. Due to its port, Thong Sala is an arrival and departure destination for tourists. There are some travel agencies, restaurants and hotels.
Most of the accommodations, however, are spread over the numerous beaches of the island. There you can find the right thing for practically every budget. From purpose-built bamboo huts without electricity and running water to luxurious resorts, Koh Phangan manages the balancing act between spartan backpacking and the highest standards of comfort.
Legendary party nights
Nevertheless, the island has been almost spared from mass tourism and is still very popular with backpackers from all over the world. Of course, this is not least due to the infamous Full Moon Parties, which attract up to 30,000 techno and trance fans as well as party-goers from all over the world to Haad Rin Beach every full moon night – depending on the season. Due to the success of the event, real party tourism has developed in and around Haad Rin, so that Half-Moon and Black-Moon parties are now also held. But no matter whether you are a hyperactive techno disciple, a backpacker on a tight budget or a family with high demands – Koh Phangan has the perfect dream beach ready for every visitor.
The months between March and October are the best time to visit Koh Phangan. April and May are usually the hottest months, monsoon season is from November to January.
