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Tel Aviv – 5 reasons to travel to the white city in June

Asia
Isreal

Viviana Arslan

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24. May 2019

Tel Aviv – 5 reasons to travel to the white city in June

Tel Aviv is the cultural center and heartbeat of Israel and much more than a city. Tel Aviv is a feeling. A feeling that attracts more and more tourists every year. The Mediterranean city is known for its unparalleled nightlife, miles of beaches, laid-back residents, and the largest collection of Bauhaus buildings in the world. There are many reasons to travel to the LGBT-friendly start-up metropolis, especially in June.

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The Gay Pride Parade

Let’s start with one of the biggest and most colorful events of the year, which not only inspires the LGBT community. We are talking about the annual Gay Pride Parade, which is one of the biggest events of the year with up to 250,000 participants. Every year in June, during Pride Week, the whole city is decorated with rainbow flags, which are the symbol of the LGBT movement. The week is celebrated with numerous parties and events and the Pride parade on Fridays as the highlight. The colourful parade starts at lunchtime in the heart of the city and stretches along the seafront to Charles Clore Park, where it finally comes to the grand finale. What makes the Gay Pride parade in Tel Aviv so special and different from others is not least the fact that the event takes place in a country where state and religion are not separated, and Tel Aviv is still one of the most LGBT-friendly cities in the world, unparalleled in the Middle East.

The beaches

With its miles of sandy beaches and location on the Mediterranean Sea, Tel Aviv is the perfect place for sun worshippers and beach lovers who particularly appreciate warmer waters. Each of the beaches in Tel Aviv has its own character, which can be felt very well when walking along the promenade. There, especially in the summer months, you can see a lot from bathing beauties, fitness junkies, to yogis, musicians, surfers and dog owners. With such a wide range of beaches, there is guaranteed to be something for everyone. Particularly worth mentioning is the dog beach “Alma Beach” or also called “Jaffa Beach”, which is located in the south of Tel Aviv and offers a beautiful view of the old port city of Yafo, which is now considered part of the city. What gives the hip beach its unique atmosphere is above all the mixed crowd. If you bathe here, you may be lucky enough to hear both the sound of church bells and the call to prayer from the nearby mosque in Yafo at the same time, making for an unforgettable experience.

The food

What makes Israeli cuisine special are the influences of many different countries and dishes that Jewish immigrants brought to the country, and thus contributed significantly to the diversity of this cuisine. Tourists and locals alike enjoy flavors from countries such as Yemen, Iraq, Morocco or Lebanon, which make Israel and its hip center Tel Aviv a culinary experience. Probably the most famous dishes in the country include hummus, falafel, shawarma and shakshuka, a delicious stir-fry dish with eggs, tomatoes, peppers and many spices, which is typically served for breakfast. If you want to enjoy these and many other delicacies, it is best to visit the markets and the many trendy restaurants in the city. The best place to go for foodies and the heart of the city is the “Carmel Market”, which is located in Kerem HaTeimanim, one of the most interesting culinary districts of the city. Fans of market halls and gourmet cuisine should definitely pay a visit to Sarona Market and the surrounding restaurants. Israel’s cuisine is not only tasty, varied and healthy, but also steeped in history and always worth a visit.

Nightlife

Tel Aviv is also known as the city that never sleeps and lives up to its name. The city is famous for its extensive nightlife, which can last until the early hours of the morning and beyond. Tel Aviv’s nightlife is electric, authentic, sexy, and extremely appealing. The best place to plunge into the wild nights of the city is the heart of the metropolis, the famous Rothschild Boulevard, as well as the adjacent Allenby Street. There are some of the best clubs, bars and restaurants in the city in the immediate vicinity, making the boulevard an unbeaten nightlife mile. A little further north, on King George, as well as the popular Dizengoffstraße, there are countless bars and restaurants that invite you to linger. In the south of the city there are several other techno clubs, including the probably hippest club “The Block”, which is known for its outstanding sound and is often compared to the “Berghain” in Berlin . Somewhat cheaper, but still hip, are the bars in the hipster district of Florentin. For those who like it a little more relaxed, the “Shuk Hapishpeshim” flea market in Yafo and the surrounding area is just the thing. Shuk, which translates to market, is home to some of the most charismatic and beautiful bars in the city, giving the former port city its special atmosphere.

The weather

Last but not least, the weather in Israel speaks for itself. Although summer in Tel Aviv peaks in July and August with maximum temperatures, warm weather can be expected almost all year round. In June, there are already extraordinarily hot temperatures, but this makes the month ideal for relaxing beach days and making Tel Aviv the perfect destination for summer enthusiasts.

Written by Viviana Arslan – Exoticca

Good reasons for international health insurance

All about travel

PatrickJullien

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19. May 2019

0

Good reasons for international health insurance

When you think about your holiday, you usually dream of sunny beaches, dreamlike landscapes or snow-capped mountains. The gray tiles of a doctor’s office, on the other hand, are unlikely to come to mind. But even abroad, no one is immune to illness and injury – which can be quite expensive under certain circumstances.

This is because the statutory health insurance sometimes does not cover the complete treatment costs, even in countries of the European Union. The dream vacation can quickly turn into a financial disaster. Fortunately, however, no one has to do without long journeys. Because international health insurance ensures security even in faraway countries. So the holiday can be enjoyed carefree.

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What is international health insurance?

Basically, an international health insurance works exactly like its domestic counterpart: You pay a monthly contribution and the costs are covered in the event of illness. Abroad, however, there is another special feature: Especially in the case of serious injuries, a normal return journey to Germany may not be possible at times. In this case, the international health insurance also covers the return transport to Germany. Under certain circumstances, this can be considerable costs – for example, if a special aircraft with medical equipment is needed. For this reason alone, taking out supplementary insurance makes sense and is urgently advised.

Who needs special insurance for abroad?

In Germany, health insurance is generally compulsory. However, this does not apply to trips abroad. From a legal point of view, no one is forced to take out a corresponding policy. For the reasons mentioned above, however, it makes sense to take out a policy in most cases. Basically, the further away the trip is and the longer it takes, the more sensible it is to take out international health insurance. So if you only go to Switzerland for shopping, you can probably do without the additional protection. For air travel to distant developing and emerging countries, on the other hand, the situation is quite different.

Where can international health insurance be taken out?

The business also seems to be quite lucrative for the providers. At least the number of offers has continued to increase in recent years. For example, international health insurance is sometimes already included in credit card contracts or automobile clubs. In order to avoid unnecessary duplication, it is therefore advisable to take a closer look at the transcript of benefits. Often, international health insurance can also be booked for an additional fee. Alternatively, traditional health insurance companies also offer corresponding offers. This large number of providers can be a bit confusing for the customer at first. But it also ensures that prices remain affordable.

What do I have to pay attention to when taking out international health insurance?

Before taking out a new international health insurance, you should therefore compare the different offers and pay particular attention to the following points:

The price: Logically, who wants to pay an unnecessary amount of money?
The range of services: The costs for medical treatment and medication should be covered in any case. The same applies to the possibly necessary return flight to Germany.
The duration: Often the policies are only valid for a certain period of stay abroad. In this case, you must take out international health insurance that conforms to your own travel plans.
Pre-existing conditions: In some cases, there are special exclusion clauses for customers with chronic illnesses. It is imperative to read the fine print here to ensure that the insurance company actually covers the costs in an emergency. The same applies if you are already travelling abroad with an injury – such as a foot in plaster.
Additional services: Only when these three essential points have been clarified should it be looked at which additional offers the providers use to advertise for customers.

Does international health insurance cover all risks?

If you choose the right insurance, you can go on holiday with peace of mind: an injury or illness will not cause unbearable costs. However, even the best insurance cannot cover all risks. For example, self-employed people can suffer severe financial losses if they are absent for a longer period of time due to illness.

However, this risk must be additionally covered by both statutory health insurance in Germany and international health insurance. The same applies, for example, to certain special forms of treatment – such as homeopathy. As always, it is therefore advisable to determine in advance exactly which protection is required individually – and then to take out the appropriate insurance.

Conclusion: Health insurance abroad is important

Medical treatment abroad can quickly cost you your financial existence. For example, there are known cases in the United States in which patients were presented with bills in the high five-digit range after their stay in the emergency room. In the case of longer-lasting treatments, the costs can also quickly rise to even higher ranges. Because the statutory health insurance often does not cover this in full, an appropriate supplementary insurance should be taken out before every trip abroad. This does not prevent the stay in the hospital from possibly overshadowing the vacation a little. But at least it ensures that there is still enough money left over for further trips in the next few years.

Grenada – the jewel of the Caribbean

PatrickJullien

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17. May 2019

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The Caribbean island of Grenada is the southernmost of the Leeward Islands. La Grenade was what the French called the island in colonial times: the jewel. And she is a jewel indeed. It is of volcanic origin, only 18 kilometers wide and about 34 kilometers long, but the extinct volcanoes rise up to 840 meters out of the sea.

The island is almost completely covered with rainforest. Dreamlike beaches invite you to linger, while inland, untouched nature, crater lakes, waterfalls and hot springs beckon. And despite all this, Grenada is still considered an insider tip and is not flooded by crowds of tourists.

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Caribbean dream beaches

Saint George's, Grenada — Saint George’s, the capital of Grenada, Image: Claudio306 / shutterstock

Whether beaches with fine light sand that slope gently into the water and are therefore ideal for families, black-gray beaches that are reminiscent of the volcanic origin of the island or beaches where the palm trees grow into the sea and the coconuts practically fall into your lap: here everyone will find their own personal dream beach.

And with all this, you can still find beaches where you are really lonely. For example, in the north of the island there are some small offshore islands that are uninhabited and can only be reached by boat. Only a few find their way there. A detour is worthwhile for those who want to experience Robinson’s loneliness.

Grenada – A paradise for all divers and other water sports enthusiasts

On an island like Grenada, water sports are of course the top priority when it comes to outdoor activities. Surfing is not possible, the water is too calm and the winds too calm. But divers and snorkelers get their money’s worth in the waters off the island. In addition to the coral gardens with their colorful tropical underwater wildlife, parrotfish, diadem angelfish, surgeonfish and other colorful sea creatures, the Grenada coast is also considered a top wreck area. Around a dozen shipwrecks can be discovered during dives, including “Bianca C”, which is often referred to as the Titanic of the Caribbean .

Waterfall Grenada — Image: Hugh O’Connor / shutterstock

Another highlight is the Scultpure Park. The underwater museum with an area of more than 800 square meters was created in 2007 by the English diver Jason de Caires-Taylor. In the meantime, the approximately 80 figures are populated by sea urchins and corals. Fish also enjoy it.

The calm sea off Grenada is also ideal for another water sport: stand-up padding. Kayak tours are also offered. And of course, swimming in the turquoise blue sea is always a pleasure. But there is also the possibility to take a refreshing dip in most of the natural pools at the waterfalls inland.

Outdoor activities in unspoiled nature away from the sea

Most of Grenada is covered with rainforest. The easiest way to discover the natural beauties is to take a tour of the island by car along the coastal roads. But there is also the possibility to walk on paths, some of which still go back to the paths of the indigenous people. There are now marked hiking trails, for example up to the summit of Qua Qua, Grenada’s second highest mountain at 700 meters.

Another hiking trail leads to the Seven Sisters, seven contiguous waterfalls. The crater lake Grand Etang is also a popular hiking destination. If you want to go even further into the rainforest, you have the opportunity to be guided by a guide and discover very special natural beauties; Craters, waterfalls and a flora and fauna of exotic beauty.

St. George’s, the capital of Grenada

St. George’s was founded by the French in the mid-17th century as Fort Royal. In the course of history, the city changed affiliation several times. The French and Britons exercised colonial rule over town and country and left their mark. Three forts lie above the city and those who dare to climb will be rewarded with a fantastic view over the city, harbor and surrounding area. The city itself stretches steeply up into the hills. But the most impressive thing is probably the city’s large market. Here you can find an abundance of typical fruit and vegetables, spices, but also souvenirs.

Culinary

In addition to all the scenic advantages, Grenada is also considered the spice island of the Caribbean. Mainly nutmeg is grown here, but also cinnamon, cloves, ginger and other spices. Grenada’s cuisine is correspondingly spicy. It is Creole, influenced by African, Native American and Indian influences. The sea is never far away, and so fish and seafood play a major role. But chicken and other types of meat are also popular.

The tropical fruits such as pineapple, mango, cashew fruit, papaya or soursop are also unsurpassed in taste, which are worlds better than the imported goods in our latitudes straight from the tree. Grenada’s national dish is oildown. The colorful mixture of different types of bananas, breadfruit, callaloo, a kind of spinach, coconut milk, spices and, depending on taste, other vegetables and meat or fish, is usually only served at larger festivals, as it is very complex to prepare and therefore not practical for home use.

Inextricably linked with Grenada is nutmeg. It can even be found on the flag of the island state. And it is not only used as a spice. It is considered a cultural asset and is used for what feels like everything the kitchen has to offer. They are processed into jam, oil, syrup, liqueur or rum.

Travel in Costa Rica

America

PatrickJullien

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13. May 2019

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South and Central America are increasingly becoming the focus of tourism around the world. Costa Rica is becoming increasingly popular: In 2017, Costa Rica recorded over three million tourists throughout the country.

It is not for nothing that the growth rates in this area are constantly in the upper range. But what is there to visit in Costa Rica, which regions are particularly attractive and what is the best time of year?

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General, weather and temperatures in Costa Rica

Rio Celeste Waterfall, Image: William Berry / shutterstock

Although Costa Rica does not have the geographical area of Brazil, Argentina or Chile, the country still has a lot to offer with the area of Lower Saxony.

The weather there is tropical and therefore never really cold like in Europe. The high humidity contributes to the fact that flora and fauna thrive at a breathtaking pace. In the months of May to October, the majority of the precipitation of the whole year falls, so holidaymakers should pay attention to waterproof clothing and include the rain on excursions.

Costa Rica had a very species-rich and colorful flora and fauna, which stretched from the beaches of the Caribbean to the mountains and into the tropical rainforest. A little anecdote: The Spanish navigator and explorer Christopher Columbus already recognized the treasure that the country held and called the coast where he arrived “rich coast”. In Spanish, it means Costa Rica, so the name speaks volumes.

Places of interest in Costa Rica

Arenal Volcano, Costa Rica — The Arenal Volcano, Image: Parkol / shutterstock

Nature is probably the largest and most fascinating monument that can be visited here. The diversity of geography and landscape alone is enough to fill entire weeks with experiences. Below we present 4 particularly charming places that you can take with you on your trip through Costa Rica.

1. The Tortuguero National Park

Snorkeling Costa Rica — Snorkeling on Tortuga, Image: Joan Vendrell / shutterstock

This unusual piece of nature is located directly on the coast towards the Caribbean Sea and cannot be reached via highways. Only visitors by plane or ship can visit the park, and intensive attention is paid to the protection of its local flora and fauna.

One of the most famous species in Tortuguero Park are turtles, which also gave part of its name to the facility; “la tortuga” is the turtle in Spanish. During the mating season and the following egg-laying, visitors to Tortuguero can watch the animals on the beach, a spectacle that is only visible in a few places.

Another popular aspect of the park is extensive excursions by boat or on foot in the jungle. Here you can observe the diverse, colorful and exotic flora, with a bit of luck you can even see caimans, various species of monkeys, colorful macaws or anacondas.

2. The Puerto Viejo region

Ballena Bay, Image: Tami Freed / shutterstock

This area is also located on the paradisiacal beach of the Caribbean coast and is traditionally a melting pot of different nations. Immigrants from Jamaica, Europe and other South American countries settled here, bringing their culture, gastronomy and music with them.

The result today is many small cafes, taverns, bars and squares where festivals and music events take place and attract people from all over the region. Reggae fans in particular get their money’s worth here. Another attractive point are the numerous beaches, some of which are untouched and outside the tourist influx.

The Caribbean Sea is particularly popular with snorkelers, divers and avid swimmers, as it is home to many exotic fish and other marine animals. Among other things, dives and supervised snorkeling trips to small reefs or sunken ships are offered. Here you can admire the colorful and, in the best case, intact underwater world of Costa Rica, in which rays, clownfish, moray eels, small sharks and other marine animals cavort.

3. The Manuel Antonio region

Landscape Costa Rica — Image: SeSm / shutterstock

Here you are on the Pacific side of Costa Rica, the province includes spacious white sandy beaches and a national park, the Parque de Manuel Antonio.

The beaches are particularly popular with European and US tourists, as the water here is turquoise and clear and the coast slopes gently into the sea. The directly adjacent rainforest provides the basis for the livelihood of the local population. Many of the Ticos (as Costa Ricans are colloquially called) live from guided tours of the country, from their own restaurants or from renting authentic accommodation to visitors.

A particularly large number of sloths and tapirs live here, these animals are cute and have already become accustomed to humans through the many visitors. This may give you the chance to get up close and personal with one of the animals and get a special snapshot!

4. The capital San José

National Theatre Costa Rica — The National Theatre in San José, Image: Mihai-Bogdan Lazar / shutterstock

San José is the largest in Costa Rica and at the same time the economic and political center. Surrounded by volcanoes and the Talamanca mountain range, the surrounding area offers a fascinating view of the metropolis, which is home to over 300,000 people. Popular attractions are the central square Plaza de la Cultura, where life flourishes especially in the evening, the colonial-style Melico Salazar theatre or the municipal park Parque Central. There, many of the residents take a break and enjoy the silence in the midst of green plants and colorful hibiscus bushes.

Costa Rica undoubtedly has tremendous riches in terms of tourist destinations and local nature. There are many travel guides that deepen special topics such as dives or jungle tours and give interesting tips. Especially outside the rainy season, a round trip through the Central American country is particularly recommended, as all places can then be visited with dry feet. Vamos a Costa Rica!

The most spectacular waterfalls in the world

All about travel

PatrickJullien

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12. May 2019

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The most spectacular waterfalls in the world

Waterfalls are among the most impressive spectacles that nature has to offer. With their thundering masses of water that plunge down from a great height, they exert a great fascination on every viewer. Waterfalls can be characterized by their height, width or amount of water and therefore it is actually imprecise to speak of the “largest” waterfalls in the world. Below we describe some that are definitely among the most spectacular of them.

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The Niagara Falls

Niagara Falls is probably the most famous waterfalls in the world and the largest on the North American continent. They are located on the border between the United States and Canada and are a complex of three different cases: the horseshoe, the American and the so-called Bridal Veil case.

The first two are located entirely within the territory of the US state of New York, while the largest, the Horseshoe Fall, forms the border with the Canadian province of Ontario. The river that plunges down here is the Niagara River, which connects Lake Erie with Lake Ontario. Visitors can enjoy a fantastic view of the phenomenon from the 192 m high Skylon Tower and the observation deck next to the falls also allows a great overall view.

The Hufeisen waterfall impresses with its immense width of 792 m, while the height of 53 m is less striking overall. Most tourists who come to Niagara Falls take one of the boat tours offered by the “Maid of the Mist” fleet or book a helicopter tour of this unique natural beauty.

The Salto del Angel Waterfall in Venezuela

This waterfall in the southeast of Venezuela is the highest free-falling waterfall in the world with a height of 979 m. It is located in the middle of tropical rainforests on the table mountain Auyan-Tepui, where heavy thunderstorms regularly fall, through which the waterfall is fed. Due to the distance of almost one kilometre, only drops of the voluminous jet at the top are usually left on the lower part during the dry season. These cover the green landscape as a cloud and shape an unforgettable picture. Although the site is difficult to access and can only be reached by plane and boat, the place has become one of the most important sights in the country.

The Iguazù Falls

The Iguazú Falls are located on the border between the two Latin American countries Brazil and Argentina and are made up of a large number of different falls (20 large and about 250 smaller), which together cover a gigantic width of almost 3000 m

Iguazu Falls, Image: sharptoyou / shutterstock

extend. The height of the individual falls varies between 64 and 82 m. From the Brazilian side you have the better panoramic view, as most of the cases are in the neighboring country, but on the Argentine side footbridges lead directly to the edge. This first-hand experience of the natural wonder is experienced by numerous visitors every day.

The Victoria Falls

On the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe, the Zambezi River plunges into the depths and formed the Victoria Falls, which are up to 1800 m wide and 120 m high, over the millennia. The first white man to discover this was the Scotsman David Livingstone in 1855. He also gave them their names in honour of his queen. The waterfalls are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and are the widest in the world. Those who love thrills can take a dip in the so-called “Devil’s Pool”, right on the edge – a popular activity for the numerous tourists who come here every day.

The Bán Gioc Detian Waterfalls

The Bán Gioc Detian Waterfalls are a breathtaking sight, even if their name is hardly known in Europe . They are located on the border between China and Vietnam and consist of 4 major cases. The Quy Xuán River pours over several steps over a width of 300 m into the depths and despite the comparatively low height of 50 m, the place is simply magical and unique. Between May and September, the amount of water is at its highest and the spectacle is therefore most impressive.

The most important waterfall in Europe is the Rhine Falls in Schaffhausen in Switzerland. Although it can’t really keep up in terms of size in an international comparison, it still offers a spectacular sight by local standards with a width of 150 m and a height of 23 m.

Guadeloupe – where France meets the Caribbean

PatrickJullien

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9. May 2019

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Guadeloupe – where France meets the Caribbean

Experience France and the Caribbean at the same time on one holiday – isn’t that possible? It’s possible! In Guadeloupe. The indigenous people call the archipelago in the Caribbean “Karukera”, the place of beautiful waters. This belongs to France and is considered largely undiscovered among travelers.

In the immediate vicinity are the British overseas territory of Montserrat to the northwest and the Republic of Dominica to the south. The island of Martinique, which also belongs to France, is located 120 kilometers to the south.

Soufrière, Guadeloupe — Soufrière, the highest mountain on Guadeloupe and the Lesser Antilles, Image: Filip Fuxa / shutterstock

More than a dozen volcanic islands belong to Guadeloupe, six of which are inhabited – Basse-Terre, Grande-Terre, Marie-Galante, La Désirade and the Îles des Saintes. From lonely sandy beaches to forested mountains, the archipelago’s scenic diversity stretches. The two main islands of Basse-Terre and Grande-Terre together form the wings of a butterfly. They are separated by a mangrove swamp spanned by a few bridges.

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Guadeloupe – Breathtaking nature with guaranteed relaxation

Terre-de-Haut, Iles des Saintes — View of Iles des Saintes, Image: Jakob Fischer / shutterstock

Only about 400,000 people live in Guadeloupe. The archipelago is considered one of the only 25 UNESCO biosphere reserves in the world. Thanks to its volcanic origin, there are golden and black beaches in addition to chalky white beaches. All of them invite you to laze in the soft sand.

Flower lovers will get their money’s worth at the Deshaies Botanical Garden in Basse-Terre. On seven hectares of land, you can marvel at breathtaking flowers from all over the world, including orchids, hibiscus and bougainvillea.

The tiny islands of La Désirade, Marie-Galante or Les Saintes are only about an hour’s ferry ride from the main islands and invite travellers who want to experience absolute solitude to visit as part of a day trip. During hikes through the nature reserve, you may be lucky enough to discover rare species such as the Lesser Antillean iguana, the Désirade skink or the Gaïac.

Hikes through the species-rich flora also promise relaxation. At the eastern end of Grande-Terre, a path leads up the cliffs to the Pointe des Châteaux, which offers spectacular views of the Atlantic Ocean and the Caribbean Sea.

A major attraction of the archipelago is the Guadeloupe National Park on the island of Basse-Terre, which covers an area of 75,000 hectares of rainforest.

Active holidays in Guadeloupe

Located in the national park is the Grande Soufrière volcano. It is considered an active volcano that last spewed lava in 1976 and is accessible to travelers. The ascent is considered moderately demanding. The summit is at an altitude of 1467 meters. Once at the top, a view into the crater is possible.

For water sports enthusiasts, there is the possibility of snorkeling, surfing and diving. That
Even for travelers who have had enough of sunbathing on the beach, Guadeloupe offers a whole host of activities such as surfing.

Eventful colonial history and diverse cultural mix

Gouadeloupe from above — Image: Robert Bleecher / shutterstock

Christopher Columbus first set foot on Basse-Terre in 1493. The Caribs, the indigenous inhabitants of Guadeloupe, successfully resisted colonization by the Spaniards, but were no match for the French who invaded later. In 1674, the archipelago fell to France, then to England and back to France. The import of African slaves for work on sugar cane plantations began. After slavery was abolished in 1848, Indian servants took over the work on the plantations. In 2015, the Mémorial ACTe Museum opened, commemorating the history of slavery. It is considered part of the UNESCO slave route project.

The colonialist history is particularly visible on Marie-Galante – it is characterized by windmills and the ruins of a sugar factory.

To delve deeper into the present-day culture of the archipelago, the numerous festivities in the villages are particularly suitable. Here you can dance to various traditional music styles such as Gwo’ka, Biguine Vidé and Zouk.

Guadeloupe as a destination with other advantages

Even the high season on the small French Caribbean islands is not characterized by mass tourism – unlike other Caribbean islands. Of course, there is also the rum typical of the Caribbean , which can be tasted in distilleries.

Small markets full of traders also exude Caribbean flair – in addition to coconuts, inger and tamarind, punch can be bought in hand-painted bottles that make good souvenirs to take home.

Those who love French baguettes, pastries, good butter and cheese are also in the right place in Guadeloupe. The French influence is clearly noticeable and adds to the charm of the archipelago. Since this belongs to France and thus to the European Union, the official currency of the Euro and currency exchange and conversion is not necessary. Anyone who, as a citizen of the European Union, falls in love with one of the islands of Guadeloupe and wants to stay, can do so indefinitely without major obstacles and additional work permits.

The climatic conditions in Guadeloupe are not characterized by extremes. Thanks to north-easterly trade winds, the tropical climate is mitigated, so that temperatures on the coast vary between 25-28 degrees Celsius.

More than “seeing the world” – ecotourism in East Africa

Africa

PatrickJullien

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8. May 2019

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More than “seeing the world” – ecotourism in East Africa

by Vivien Riener

Angaza Ecoventures is a small tour operator based in Western Kenya that organizes and operates individualized tours in Kenya and other parts of East Africa. The unique selling point of Angaza is its sustainable and social orientation: Managing director and activist Evarastus Obura pursues the goal of promoting biodiversity and the preservation of livelihoods in the regions he visits. Thus, the unforgettable experiences on a trip with Angaza are at the same time a benefit for local communities and ecosystems.

When I came to Kenya for the first time in 2010, I had little more idea of Africa than the stereotypical images that “The Lion King” on the one hand and the posters of various aid organizations on the other hand had conveyed to me. As a recent high school graduate, I wanted to “see the world” and when an old school friend invited me to visit him in Kisumu on Lake Victoria during his year abroad with a volunteer service, I sensed the opportunity for an adventure – cut into digestible morsels. As it turned out, the right track. And at the same time much more than I could have imagined. Thanks to Evarastus.

When Evarastus takes visitors like me to the shores of Lake Victoria to observe hammerhead birds and kingfisher species, he has a lot to tell and the enthusiasm shines from his eyes. As a teenager, Evarastus saw the reed belt and swampy zones around the lake shrink. Sediments washed in from the higher altitudes caused the peripheral zones to silt up – a consequence of unsustainable agriculture.

Another problem was introduced plant species such as the water hyacinth, which spread rapidly and disrupted and greatly altered the original ecosystem network. The habitat of diverse plant and animal species was about to disappear. But as an enthusiastic amateur ornithologist and with a great appreciation for the natural abundance of his homeland, Evarastus decided to become active. Together with five classmates, he started an action group for the care of the sensitive biotopes; a high-profile commitment that ultimately resulted in the protected status of the areas as Important Bird Area (IBA). As it turned out later, this was the cornerstone of Evarastu’s career as a social entrepreneur with an ecological mission.

The success of his first nature conservation project was followed by many more years of commitment, during which he founded and implemented various eco-social projects in cooperation with organizations such as Birdlife International, Nature Kenya, even the UN or NABU Germany . Among other things, one of his projects was also a place of assignment for volunteers from Germany, who were taught ecological basics here – like my old school friend, through whom I came to Kenya for the first time.

Today, Evarastus is the director of Aganza Ecoventures, a social-ecological tourism company that aims to offer guests a unique and authentic travel experience by meeting criteria of sustainability and social sustainability. Evarastus

Experience and passion for the environment and the strengthening of local communities can be experienced up close when you are on tour with him through Kenya or other parts of East Africa: whether cycling through Hell’s Gate National Park, hiking in the rarely visited Kajulu Hills, cooking together in Amboseli National Park or in unique accommodations with wild hippos in the back garden: Evarastus knows what he is doing and, above all, why. His life’s work is to support nature and people in his home country through his company.

Latest project of Evarastus is a program to promote global citizenship, also known as Global

Contact:

Angaza Ecoventures www.angazaecoventures.com

Email: samwanadre@gmail.com

Kenya Assemblies of God, at Imani Café Building Ring Road P.O. Box 9362-40141 Kisumu Evarastus Obura Email: evarastus@yahoo.com Tel & WhatsApp: +254 723 412 576

Citizenship. It is primarily intended to promote exchange between young people in Kenya and other places in the world in order to demystify misconceptions and stereotypes about cultures, lifestyles and perceptions. Evarastus was inspired by his own experiences on international educational trips and clichéd ideas of the “West” in his own country – and in dealing with naïve visitors like me.

Through my journey with Evarastus, I learned that in a country like Kenya, which as part of the Global South is structurally disadvantaged by global trade and power politics, there is a need for doers like him. When people like me from the Global North use our capital and powerful passports to “see the world,” it matters who shows it to us so that we can come home with a richer and more complex picture. At least richer and more complex than cartoons and billboards can convey to us.

Toronto – The hippest city in Canada

PatrickJullien

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6. May 2019

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Toronto, the largest city in Canada with its 2.6 million inhabitants, is one of the most popular destinations in the country. Located directly on Lake Ontario and only 100 kilometers north of the US border, this city has numerous sights, highlights and experiences to offer its visitors. Toronto International Airport is the largest in the country and can be reached from Germany with a direct flight in about 8 hours.

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The sights of Toronto

CN Tower

The CN Tower is one of Toronto’s most famous sights, which is hardly surprising, as it stands out from the rest of the city skyline with its 533 meters in height. The Canada National Tower was built in the 1970s and held the title of the tallest building in the world for some time.

The view from the tower’s panoramic deck is breathtaking and allows visitors to see as far as the United States on a clear day. For particularly brave guests, there is also a glass floor through which you can look down between your feet. The so-called Edge Walk, in which the participants run along the edge of the tower, secured by belts, promises a thrill in a class of its own. The Edge Walk is definitely an experience that you won’t forget in a hurry.

Lake Ontario

The city of Toronto is located right on the shores of Lake Ontario, so no visit to the city would be complete without a stroll along the lakefront. Lake Ontario is the smallest of the Great Lakes in terms of area and is connected to the Atlantic Ocean by the gigantic St. Lawrence River. In winter, the lake often freezes over, in summer it is a heat reservoir and enables the cultivation of fruit and wine in the region. It also supplies the city with fresh water and is used for numerous water sports. A panoramic cruise on Lake Ontario also gives you a great view of Toronto’s skyline.

Distillery District

Arguably Toronto’s most photogenic neighborhood, the Distillery District is home to countless bars, pubs, restaurants, and trendy shops. By the way, the district got its name from the many distilleries that used to be located here and supplied the entire city with alcohol. In addition to a handful of distilleries, there are numerous breweries here today, which produce, among other things, the well-known Mill Street organic beer. Art objects, graffiti images and light installations are displayed throughout the Distillery District, making a walk through the district a true discovery tour.

Royal Ontario Museum

The Royal Ontario Museum, which is often abbreviated just as Rome , is one of the largest museums in all of North America and is a guaranteed eye-catcher due to its striking architecture. The museum first opened in 1914 and contains an ever-growing collection of exhibits that bring visitors closer to the history, nature and culture of Canada. The museum attaches great importance to being family-friendly and interactive and is therefore also a good destination for travelers with children. In addition to dinosaur models, the 6 million exhibits include a considerable collection of rocks and numerous Indian relics. The best overview of the almost overwhelming museum is offered by a guided tour.

Casa Loma

Casa Loma is a mansion located at the north end of Spadina Avenue, reminiscent of a European castle from the Middle Ages. The building was built from 1911 to 1914 on behalf of the Canadian industrialist Sir Henry Pellatt and was the largest private residence in North America after its completion. Due to economic upheavals, the Pellatts had to sell the house after the First World War, and after a luxury hotel and the Canadian military were housed in the mansion in the meantime, it is now a popular destination for visitors to the city. The building is surrounded by a palace park-like garden and a museum awaits visitors inside.

Destinations around Toronto

The surrounding area of Toronto also has some highlights in store for its visitors and so it is definitely recommended to leave the city limits for a longer stay.

Toronto Islands

The Toronto Islands are a group of islands in Lake Ontario off the coast of the city, which is completely closed to motorized traffic and thus offers a wonderful retreat and recreation area. You can reach the islands by ferries and water taxis, which depart from the mainland side at the harbour front and then drive to the islands.

The Toronto Islands are home to numerous beaches and hiking trails, and the area has long been an important recreational area for the city’s residents. The islands are also of great importance for nature, as many birds retreat here to breed. The Toronto Islands is also home to the oldest building in the city, the Gibraltar Point Lighthouse, which dates back to 1832.

Niagarafälle – Niagara Falls

About an hour and a half drive from Toronto, right on the U.S. border, are the world-famous Niagara Falls. Here the Niagara River, which connects Lake Erie with Lake Ontario, falls very impressively over a series of waterfalls. With over 18 million visitors, the Niagara Falls region is one of the most popular destinations in all of North America. The small town of Niagara Falls, through which the Canadian part of the falls is accessible, seems like a smaller version of Las Vegas and has numerous casinos and hotels.

New Delhi: A metropolis full of contrasts

Asia
India

PatrickJullien

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6. May 2019

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New Delhi: A metropolis full of contrasts

New Delhi is currently the third largest city in the world with more than 27 million inhabitants. It is located in the north of India, less than 500 kilometers from the Himalayan mountains. India’s capital inspires tourists with its many contrasts. Western and typical Indian lifestyle, rich and poor as well as old and new are close together here.

Famous Sights in New Delhi

Red Fort

To the east of the old town is the Red Fort fortress and palace complex. It was built in the 17th century by order of the then Mughal emperor Shah Jahan. This is best known for the construction of the famous Taj Mahal. Since 2007, the red sandstone fort has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Qutub Minar

Another UNESCO World Heritage Site in New Delhi is the 72-metre-high Victory and Watchtower Qutub Minar. It was built in the 13th century and is located on the Qutub complex site. The first Muslim mosque in India was also built there, the ruins of which can still be visited today.

Connaught Place

The center of the city is Connaught Place. On the circular streets, one of India’s largest trading centers is located in old colonial buildings. The countless shops, restaurants and cafes are popular with both tourists and locals.

India Gate and Presidential Palace

A historically important landmark is the India Gate. Among other things, the names of the almost 100,000 Indian and British war dead from the First World War are engraved in this triumphal arch. From there, the long boulevard Rajpath leads to Rashtrapati Bhavan, the official residence of the Indian president. The surrounding green areas invite you to picnic and walk.

Humayun’s Mausoleum

In 1993, the Hamayun Mausoleum was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is the tomb of the second Indian Mughal Emperor Nasiruddin Muhammad Humayun and was built for him in the 16th century. Visually, it is reminiscent of the Taj Mahal, as similar plans were used for this structure.

Lodi Gardens

In the midst of the hustle and bustle of New Delhi is a sprawling oasis of calm. The Lodi Gardens park includes several mausoleums as well as historical buildings. With its variety of flowers, countless palm trees and green spaces, it offers an ideal change from the bustling streets on an area of around 360,000 square metres and invites you to take a long walk.

Interesting markets in New Delhi

Khan Market

Spices New Delhi — Image: Curioso / shutterstock

In the immediate vicinity of the Lodi Gardens is the Khan Market. Here you can discover many international restaurants and shops. It is particularly popular with expats, as they are very likely to find all their favourite national foods here. Due to the many designer boutiques and jewellers, it is also a meeting point for the more affluent inhabitants of New Delhi.

Dilli Haat

If you are looking for traditional handicrafts, you should not miss the Dilli Haat market. In addition to saris, handbags and jewellery, many other typical souvenirs are also offered for sale here every day. After shopping, a visit to the small restaurants and snack bars there is a good idea to try Indian delicacies.

Chandni Chowk

The Chandni Chowk shopping district includes a variety of markets in New Delhi’s Old Quarter. Here, typical Indian street food, such as samosas, is offered at numerous small stalls. Tourists are particularly enthusiastic about the many foreign smells as well as the variety of colors and spices. If you want to learn more, you can take part in one of the famous food walks. There, culinary insider knowledge is imparted and a wide variety of dishes are tasted.

New Delhi’s Places of Worship

Jama Masjid

In addition to the Taj Mahal and the Red Fort, Shah Jahan had the Jama Masjid built. The largest mosque in India is also made of red sandstone and black and white marble and is located not far from the Red Fort. When visiting, tourists must be careful to wear long clothes and not to come during prayer times, as it is then not possible to enter.

Gurudwara Bangla Sahib

The flagpole, wrapped in orange cloths, is the sign that characterizes every Sikh temple. Those in need of help should see him from afar. Here, everyone who needs it can get medical help, meals and overnight accommodation – free of charge. The Sikh community is considered to be extremely helpful, as the support of fellow human beings is their top priority. At the Gurudwara Bangla Sahib , you can marvel at how food is prepared for up to 50,000 people every day. And the golden interior of the temple is also worth a visit.

Lotus Temple

This Baha’i temple was built in the shape of a lotus flower and opened in 1986. Every year, around three million visitors enjoy the extraordinary architecture and this place of silence. The nine gates of the Lotus Temple symbolize the openness of the Baha’is to any kind of religion.

Akshardam

The Akshardham Temple and the surrounding grounds are one of the largest temple complexes in the world. It was opened in 2005 and, in addition to the Hindu temple, offers its guests several exhibitions, gardens and modern things, such as a water show. Within five years, about 11,000 construction workers and volunteers created this magnificent structure. In 2007, it was included in the Guinness Book of World Records.

Special festivals in New Delhi

New Delhi is loud and colorful. The joie de vivre conveyed by this can be experienced especially on the Indian holidays.

The Holi Festival

Holi is the spring festival of the Indians and is based on the calendar of the Hindus. On the first full moon day of the month of Phalgun, friends and families in northern India meet to splash each other with water and throw colorful color powder at each other. The color is intended to make all people equal and no longer differentiate according to gender, religion or caste.

Diwali

Diwali is also a Hindu festival, but is also celebrated by many followers of other religions. At this festival of lights, Indians decorate their homes with colorful lights and decorate them solemnly. Traditionally, fireworks are also set off, which has now been banned due to the air quality in New Delhi.

Culinary specialties in New Delhi

If you visit New Delhi, you won’t be able to eat enough of the countless different dishes. In addition to the filled dumpling, the samosa, and the fried snack pakora , the famous biriyani, a rice dish, should definitely be tried. At the end of every Indian meal belongs the enjoyment of a sweet. Jalebi, a confectionery with sugar syrup, is ideal for this. A masala chai, a tea with milk and spices, rounds off the meal perfectly.

Jordan – unspoiled pearl in the Middle East

Asia
Jordan

PatrickJullien

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4. May 2019

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Jordan – unspoiled pearl in the Middle East

The Kingdom of Jordan is currently still one of the “insider tips” among travel destinations, because many Germans are concerned about traveling to Jordan in view of the political situation in the surrounding areas or have simply not heard of the country between the Dead Sea and Iraq.

Jordan has extremely hospitable people, thousands of years of history with wonderful historical sites, delicious dishes, a very varied landscape and so much more to offer. Almost 10 million people live in Jordan whose official language is Arabic. The country’s largest international airport is located in the capital Amman, a direct flight from Germany takes about 4 hours.

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Amman – Capital of Jordan

Amman, Jordan — View of the capital Amman, Image: mbrand85 / shutterstock

Most travelers reach Jordan via the airport in the capital Amman. Many people head straight from there to the numerous sights further away, even though Amman itself is more than worth a visit.

The Jordanian capital has transformed into a modern metropolis in recent years and shows the country’s eventful history. The tourist highlight of the city is the very well preserved and lovingly maintained Roman amphitheater from the 2nd century AD, which was built into one side of the Jaufa hill. In the summer months, there are also regular performances and events that bring the millennia-old theatre back to life. In the rest of the city, too, numerous contemporary witnesses from the time of the Romans can be discovered, including an ancient citadel and the Temple of Hercules.

In addition to sightseeing, a visit to Amman is also an excellent way to get in touch with the country and its people off the beaten track. The Jordanians are a very hospitable people and so it can happen that they are invited to tea directly after a nice conversation.

Rock City Petra

The rock city of Petra is by far the most famous and therefore also the most touristically developed attraction in Jordan and makes many a visitor lose words due to its size and splendour. You can reach the rock city, which has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1985, through a 1.2 kilometer long and 80 meter deep gorge, at the end of which the temple complex of red rock opens up.

The more than 800 buildings and sacrificial sites of the rock city are built directly into the red sandstone and decorated with extremely detailed decorations. Special highlights of the Petra Valley are the Pharaoh’s Treasury: a monumental funerary temple whose entrance is adorned with gigantic columns, and the Roman Theatre: a theatre carved directly into the rock with 3000 seats.

Crusader Castle of Kerak

The city of Kerak is located in the western part of the country and has always been an important settlement and seat of numerous rulers. A particularly impressive witness to these times is the ruins of the Crusader castle, built between 1142 and 1161.

Shortly after its completion, this position of the Crusaders was attacked and besieged, but it was not successfully taken until 1187 by Saladin’s army, which marked the end of the Crusaders in the Middle East. From the middle of the 13th century until the end of the First World War in 1918, the fortress was then in Turkish hands.

In 2008, the ruins were extensively renovated and restored and have since become an increasingly popular destination for visitors. The fortress is perched on a rocky outcrop, so you can enjoy a great view of the surrounding area from above. Inside the castle there is a small archaeological exhibition that shows finds from the different eras that the castle has lived through.

Mount Nebo

Also located in the western part of Jordan is Mount Nebo. It is known as the place in the Bible from which Moses was able to see the Promised Land for the first time. Today, the mountain has become a popular destination for visitors because of this biblical passage, as well as because of the incomparable view over the Dead Sea and the Jordan Valley to neighboring Israel.

On the mountain there are also the remains of an ancient church from the 3rd century AD. and some very well preserved mosaic panelling, which can be seen in a small museum. Not far from the mountain is the mosaic city of Madaba, which is also mentioned in the Bible. A visit to St. George’s Church, which is decorated with numerous ancient mosaics, is particularly worthwhile here.

Wadi Rum

In the south of Jordan is Wadi Rum, a desert landscape that was created from a dried-up river. This 100-kilometre-long desert of red sand and rock impresses not only with its unreal landscape, but also with rock carvings from prehistoric times as well as spectacular sunrises and sunsets. In 2011, the landscape of Wadi Rum was declared a World Heritage Site and today attracts numerous visitors from all over the world. The highest mountain in Wadi Rum is Jebel-Um-Dami, from whose 1800-meter-high summit visitors can see as far as the Red Sea and the border of Saudi Arabia on a clear day.

Dead Sea

The Dead Sea is one of the most impressive landscapes in Jordan, along with Wadi Rum. With a salinity of over 300 grams per liter of water, the Dead Sea is one of the saltiest waters in the world. The density of the water here is so great that a person can float on the surface without sinking. The Dead Sea is located on the border with Israel in one of the deepest depressions on earth, far below sea level and is actually a lake. There are numerous spa and wellness offers around the Dead Sea, because the soils and minerals from the lake play a major role in the cosmetics industry.