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Winter holidays – relaxed holidays for people and animals

PatrickJullien
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Winter holidays – relaxed holidays for people and animals

In summer and winter, pet owners are repeatedly faced with the problem that the animals have to be cared for during the holiday season. While this can usually be organized quite well with small animals, dog and cat owners face a bigger problem. While the decision for cats usually boils down to the fact that they are better accommodated in a kennel or in their familiar environment than when travelling, dog owners often decide to go on holiday together with their furry friend. To ensure that it is still a relaxed holiday and that the animal can also remain relaxed in the unfamiliar environment, there are a few things to consider in advance.

Winter holiday destinations with the shortest possible travel distances

If you decide to take your most loyal friend with you on your winter holiday, you should think about it when choosing a destination. Basically, the shorter the journey, the more pleasant it is for the animal. Even if you know that your dog can bravely endure longer distances in the car without any problems and remain relaxed, you should at least plan generous breaks on the journey. It is also important to have water and food ready for the breaks and especially in winter it is advisable to deposit several towels in the vehicle so that the dog’s paws and fur can be dried after the breaks if necessary. The train is also an alternative to the car, but it must be borne in mind that no individual breaks are possible and many strangers also mean stress for the beloved furry nose.

Pet-friendly accommodation at the holiday destination a must

Whether it is a hotel, a holiday apartment or a holiday home, it is a must for pet owners to clarify whether animals are allowed before booking accommodation. Once this has been clarified, you should still take a closer look at the desired accommodation to see if it meets your own ideas and needs. While you can usually get along with a small dog in a normal-sized hotel room without any problems, it is advisable to make sure that the booked rooms are of an appropriate size for larger animals, so that the animal does not feel restricted in its urge to move even in the accommodation in case of doubt.

Occupation for humans and animals on winter holidays

Winter Holidays Animals
Image: Soloviova Liudmyla / shutterstock

A winter holiday can be a lot of fun for both the dog and its owner, because walks together in the snow are always a great experience. However, if you are planning to go to the slopes and indulge in skiing pleasure during your winter holiday, you should be aware that your beloved four-legged friend has no place on the slopes. This is not only for the benefit of the other skiers, but also for the benefit of the animal, which could be seriously injured in an accident.

Accordingly, it should be planned in advance what orientation the winter holiday should have. Skiers who do not want to do without their dog on holiday should therefore find out in advance whether there is a dog boarding kennel, care or at least a dog walking service in the holiday resort. If this is the case, a corresponding booking should be made immediately after the trip has been booked. If you deliberately give up skiing and want to use your holiday to explore your new surroundings together with your faithful companion, you are well advised to go on long snow hikes, because they are good for people and animals. Playing and retrieving is also even more fun in the snow.

Quick acclimatization of the animal at the holiday destination

To make the holiday really a pleasure, you should not only think about the usual food and treats, but there is definitely a little more in the luggage for the four-legged friend. It is essential to bring the usual water and food bowls into the holiday accommodation. In addition to the bowls, it is advisable to have something ready to put underneath so that the floor in the holiday accommodation is not affected. To get used to it quickly, it is also recommended to take your favorite toys with you on vacation and also not to forget the usual cuddly blankets for sleeping, the dog bed or the basket. Of course, the dog leash, a harness and poop bags also belong in the luggage. It is also advisable to have a spare leash and a spare harness ready, as not everything can always be obtained quickly on site. In addition, a copy of the dog liability insurance and the EU pet passport should always be at hand.

Dog health on winter holidays

Especially on winter vacation, the care of the dog is an important topic and so a brush should definitely go with you on the trip. Since the fur is quickly affected when romping in the snow, it is worthwhile to have dog shampoo ready and of course your own towels, as the towels of the accommodation should be reserved for people. If you are planning longer hikes, you should also use special dog shoes for mountain tours to reduce the risk of injury and protect the dog’s pads. After normal walks on winter holidays, the bales should always be washed off, as salt is often used as a gritting agent on the roads in winter sports resorts.

Don’t forget before the holiday
Two important topics that are often forgotten are medication and a holiday dog tag. Not only medication that the dog takes regularly should go on the trip, but before the trip a first-aid kit should be put together together with the veterinarian. Especially due to the excitement of the journey and the unfamiliar environment, gastrointestinal problems can occur in sensitive animals and as a dog owner you should be well prepared for this. The topic of holiday dog tags is just as important, because if the dog should run away for any reason, it is important that the holiday address and the telephone number where the owner can be reached on holiday are known. This is achieved by a holiday stamp with a holiday address and telephone number. It is recommended to attach the tag to the dog harness when leaving home, because if the dog runs away without a tag during the journey or directly on arrival, it is impossible for the dog finder to reach the owner quickly and easily.

A thousand and one blossoms – Lake Constance, paradise at the foot of the Alps

PatrickJullien
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A thousand and one blossoms – Lake Constance, paradise at the foot of the Alps

Sometimes idyllically enraptured; sometimes wine-blessed, cheerful – the enchanting landscape on Lake Constance presents itself as diverse and multifaceted. Churches, castles, medieval towns, sun-drenched vineyards and blooming islands – the Swabian Sea seems to have sprung from a picture book. Welcome to one of the most beautiful and oldest cultural landscapes in Europe. From the Stone Age to the present day: Every era has left its mark on Lake Constance. The famous Swabian Sea has superlatives: Germany’s largest lake, whose southern shore belongs to Switzerland and Austria , measures a depth of up to 252 metres and covers an area of 538.5 square kilometres.

Of castles, zeppelins and the sweet life on the beach

Lake Constance, Constance, Zepellin
A zepellin over Constance, Image: Horst Lieber / shutterstock

Strolling through picturesque towns, dreaming a bit on the lakeside promenades and a little dolce vita on the beach – that’s a holiday on Lake Constance. The waves are still whispering on the velvety black shore before the sun lifts its face and the chatter of the waterfowl sounds. The sun is shining, the noise level is rising and soon there is a lot of activity on the shores of Lake Constance. Good for those who are now on the road by bike or treat themselves to a mini cruise along the north shore. Rocking on the waves – Lake Constance and shipping simply belong together. There is a lot to discover. Friedrichshafen is the city of zeppelins, but also the former summer residence of the Württemberg kings. After all, the name Graf von Zeppelin is closely associated with the second largest city in the region. From 1908 onwards, he laid the foundation stone for a flourishing industrial centre and built his world-famous airships in Friedrichshafen.

Lake Constance is summer magic and winter fairy tale at the same time. Every season has its charm. Explore the imposing Meersburg , walk in the footsteps of famous personalities, enjoy balmy summer nights, surf, swim or do pirouettes on the ice – almost every activity is conceivable on Lake Constance. When millions of rays of sunshine glitter in the rippled water, colourful sails float above the water and the banks blur in the haze of the sun, an irresistible magic spreads that hardly anyone can resist.

Lake Constance – Cute districts, playful lakeside promenades and lovely residential towns

Charming villages and landscapes are waiting to be discovered on the shores of Germany’s largest inland lake, which borders Austria and Switzerland. Lake Constance provides sights for several holiday trips. It is not easy to choose the most beautiful city. Each of the Lake Constance towns is unique and gives the region its special charm.

Lake Constance, Lindau
The harbour of Lindau, Image: Sergey Dzyuba / shutterstock

Where the lion guards the harbor, Lindau is located. Like an amphitheatre, the green mountains border the water surface on the east bank. In the background, the white giants of the Alps tower up, while on the opposite shore the green fringe disappears into the deep blue – at night, the distant lights of Bregenz greet you. During a stroll through the city, you will easily be captivated by the nostalgic flair. Crooked alleys and idyllic arcades surround the noble town houses of Lindau. Two dams connect the island city with the mainland.

In Friedrichshafen, a flight with the Zeppelin provides a spectacular bird’s-eye view of the lake. The most popular option is a trip to the local mountains. Less spectacular, but very romantic, is a visit to the Birnau Baroque Church. In the middle of vineyards, the medieval complex impresses – a former monastery from 1080. The church, which was destroyed in the Thirty Years’ War, was rebuilt between 1695 and 1701. From the castle terrace, visitors can enjoy a magnificent view.

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

A paradise and a place of love: The island of Mainau was shaped by truly royal hands. agaves, palm trees, cypresses and bougainvilleas line squares, streets and gardens – in between a sea of seasonal blossoms. In the middle of Lake Überlingen, the flower island inspires – famous for its subtropical flora and an abundance of exotic flowers. The magnificent island captivates countless visitors.

Constance is the city that travellers raved about as early as the Middle Ages. History lives here. The charming city has lost none of its charm over the centuries. The medieval townscape, the beautiful location on Lake Constance and the history-laden past make Constance almost unique. At the council meeting here in 1414-18, the only papal election on German soil was held. Numerous monuments still remind us of the 16th Council of Church history.

In the midst of extensive vineyards, filled with a cheerful Mediterranean atmosphere, the town of Meersburg is built up in terraces diagonally opposite Constance, on the north shore. Above the town of Meersburg towers a fairytale castle. The Old Castle or Meersburg is the oldest castle in Germany that is still inhabited today. It is considered one of the main attractions on Lake Constance. The most famous resident of the building was the poet Annette von Droste-Hülshoff. Most visitors to the city would probably do the same as the writer – she stayed. Narrow alleys lined with picturesque half-timbered houses characterise the image of Meersburg. The Steigstraße, which leads steeply from the shore of Lake Constance up to the upper town, is particularly pretty. Walking through the streets of the town, lined with filigree gables, you will encounter history at every turn. The prince-bishops of Constance already resided here.

Lake Constance, Alps
A fantastic backdrop with the Alps in the background, picture:
Carsten Ortlieb / shutterstock

The mountain is calling: At an altitude of 1,064 metres, the Vorarlberg Pfänder exerts its high attraction. It offers a unique view of Lake Constance, around 200 Alpine peaks and a view of the three countries. The Pfänderbahn takes you up. The way to the cable car is signposted in the city of Bregenz. Afterwards, a visit to the upper town of Bregenz is worthwhile. The idyllic district with its medieval flair almost seems a bit sleepy and attracts visitors with playful fountains and many sights.

Highlights in the shadow of famous Lake Constance cities

Whether on foot, by bike or by boat – the unheard-of beauty of the Lake Constance region has a lasting effect.

Salem stands for an extraordinary combination of castle, open-air concerts and a mountain of monkeys. The Affenberg is the most beautiful and largest monkey enclosure in Germany and offers children in particular a natural opportunity to meet fallow deer, storks and over 200 Barbary macaques.

The pile dwellings of Uhldingen-Mühlhofen are no less inspiring. Here you can take a trip to the Stone and Bronze Ages. The Pile Dwelling Museum shows two replicas of pile dwellings as our ancestors lived about 4000 years ago.

Also worth seeing are the wine-growing village of Hagnau, the district of Goldbach with a glacier mill, Sipplingen with the Haldenhof viewpoint and Langenrain with the interesting Marienschlucht nature reserve. Not to forget the vegetable island of Reichenau, which has been connected to the mainland by a dam since 1838, as well as the small town of Radolfzell, which lies in a bay of Lake Zell. The spa town impresses with many sights in a medieval town centre. A visit to Lake Constance also includes a trip to the Rhine Falls in Schaffhausen. Here, the mightiest waterfall in Europe plunges 150 meters into the depths. In July, at the highest time of the water level, the natural spectacle is particularly spectacular.

More information about Lake Constance at Wikipedia.

Liverpool: Cultural metropolis on the Atlantic coast

PatrickJullien
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Liverpool: Cultural metropolis on the Atlantic coast

The origins of the historic metropolis date back to the 12th century. Subsequently, the city gained in importance mainly due to its international port, which was long one of the most important in the world. It has also made a name for itself as an important starting point for emigrant ships to America. At the same time, the historic harbour structure is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and forms the charming face of Liverpool. Nowadays, the city is also known for its lively music scene and rich cultural life.

Liverpool is located right next to the mouth of the River Mersey on the Irish Sea and is just over 280 kilometres from England’s capital London. Economically, the financial sector, tourism and the service sector are particularly influential sectors. Thanks to its maritime location, the climate is mild all year round, with no extreme heat in summer or sharp frosts in winter – making Liverpool a great place to visit at any time of the year. The city can be reached by train or by road, including several tunnels below the Mersey. John Lennon International Airport is served by a variety of destinations around the world.

Sights

Liverpool Cathedral
Liverpool Cathedral, Image: Petr Vagner / shutterstock

Liverpool offers many interesting sights, including in particular the venerable harbour buildings, which are partly reminiscent of Hamburg’s Speicherstadt. In addition to the architectural characteristics of past centuries, the district is home to many museums, exhibitions and restaurants. Particularly impressive are, for example, the town hall and Pier Head on the harbour quay as well as Speke Hall, a historic half-timbered house with gardens. The city’s two cathedrals – the modern Liverpool Metropolitan Cathedral and the monumental, neo-Gothic Liverpool Cathedral – are also worth a visit. Other interesting cultural sites are St. Peter’s Church and the Princess Road Synagogue, but also the bombed-out church on Leece Street, which was preserved in this condition as a memorial to the bombing war.

A special feature of Liverpool is the wide range of different museums. The topics range from the less than glorious role of the metropolis in slavery to shipping in the Merseyside Maritime Museum to archaeology and ethnology in the World Museum. Some of the museums can be visited free of charge. A particularly valuable experience is also offered by the Walkers Gallery, the largest collection of paintings in the whole country. Almost as important is the “Tate” art collection housed in the port. If you want to take a deep breath, you should visit the spacious and lovingly designed Sefton Park in the south of the city. Other options for a trip into the countryside are the Wavertree Botanic Gardens and Knowsley Safari Park, which is not far away.

Culture & Gastronomy in Liverpool

Liverpool Anfield
The legendary Anfield stadium in Liverpool, Image: PhotoLondonUK / shutterstock

It is no coincidence that Liverpool was named European Capital of Culture in 2008. The first thought is usually for the Beatles, whose success story began here. Among other things, the exhibition “The Beatles Story” is dedicated to them. The city is also an excellent place to get to know British music history. Top addresses are, for example, the Philharmonic Hall, which offers a high-class concert program, or the Cavern Club, which is known above all for rock’n’roll. Last but not least, the city has many excellent theatre stages, the most famous of which is the Liverpool Empire Theatre. Special attention is paid to the theatre scene through the annual Liverpool Shakespeare Festival. Those with a more interest in sports should consider a visit to the turbulent Anfield Stadium, where the football-mad population likes to celebrate their athletes. In addition, the famous “Grand National” horse race takes place in Liverpool.

Tip for football fans: Anfield Stadium can be visited all year round. Book the tickets in advance on the web (https://www.visitliverpool.com). A visit costs 20 pounds for adults and 12 pounds for children.

Program items:

  • Enjoy stunning views of the pitch and city from the top floor
  • Visit the new state-of-the-art locker rooms for the home team and guests
  • Practice your interview technique in the new press room
  • Touch the infamous “This Is Anfield” sign
  • Walk through the players’ tunnel
  • Sit in Jürgen Klopp’s manager’s chair (coach: as of September 2018)
  • Snap photos of the playing field and the impressive main stand of the infamous Kop.

For culinary needs, Liverpool offers both regional specialties and a wide range of international restaurants of high class. These include, for example, the Panoramic 34 or the Roski. Traditionally, the cuisine is very potato-heavy, and these are particularly popular in the stew called “Scouser”, the “national dish” of the city. Various other dishes such as the classic “English Breakfast” as well as variants of Shepherd’s Pie or the rustic Yorkshire pudding are also known in the rest of the country. Bistros such as the “Wreckfish” are also often among the interesting addresses.

You can find more about Liverpool on Wikipedia

Chicago – From A for Al Capone to Z for Zoo

PatrickJullien
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Chicago – From A for Al Capone to Z for Zoo

Chicago is as diverse as its inhabitants. The metropolis in the USA on the impressively large and beautiful Lake Michigan in the state of Illinois welcomes its visitors from far away with its breathtaking skyscraper skyline. Some of the oldest skyscrapers in the world can be admired in the city, which is also called the “Windy City” due to its location on the water and the climate associated with it. Numerous parks loosen up the imposing cityscape and offer green local recreation areas for the 2.7 million inhabitants.

Chicago, located in the state of Illinois , is full of surprises worth seeing. For example, bikers from all over the world gather in front of Grant Park on Adams Street to ride the famous and historic Route 66 , which starts there. With its mix of architecture, skyscrapers and the bright blue Lake Michigan , the city provides countless fascinating photo opportunities and unforgettable memories. Attractions for all ages make a visit worthwhile in any weather.

Chicago is a city steeped in history, the underground of which was once controlled by the famous mafia boss Al Capone. Today, you can walk in the footsteps of the gangster in museum exhibitions or on a historical tour.

Today, Chicago is driven by a thriving economy, much of which the metropolis owes to its location on the 58,016-square-kilometer lake. The Illinois Waterway, a waterway between Lake Michigan and the Mississippi River, a wide rail network, and two airports have made Chicago an important commercial center since the mid-19th century. Visitors to the city benefit from this in particular through almost unlimited shopping opportunities and attractions. The industrial skyline of impressive skyscrapers promises unforgettable views over a city that never stands still. Chicago pulsates with life, culture and history. Sights, interesting facts and experiences are waiting around every corner to inspire young and old.

Things to see in Chicago on Lake Michigan

Probably the most spectacular view can be enjoyed from the so-called Skydeck of the Willis Tower. With a height of 442 meters and 527 meters with antenna, the skyscraper is the tallest building in the United States and the fifth tallest structure in the world. The Skydeck is a vantage point with balconies made of safety glass, where brave visitors can look through the ground a full 103 stories deep. You can see up to 80 kilometers on a clear day and admire 4 states at the same time from a bird’s eye view. Other high-rise buildings with breathtaking views over the city and the turquoise-blue Lake Michigan are the Trump International Hotel and Tower at 423 meters and the John Hancock Center at 344 meters. The latter offers a floor with an overwhelming 360-degree view.

Formerly a marshalling yard and parking lot, Millennium Park now sits enthroned at the foot of the skyline. The green local recreation area directly on Lake Michigan combines nature, architecture, art, music and adventure. The statue by the British artist Anish Kapoor with the poetic name “Cloud Gate” is particularly popular. The curved metal artwork is made of reflective steel, so that admirers of the statue can see themselves and the city distorted in it. Events such as the ten-week Grant Park Music Festival or a large outdoor cinema attract three to four million visitors every year.

On the large Chicago River, boat tours can be made through the city. To the left and right, the skyscrapers stretch to dizzying heights and present their impressive architecture. You can relax and explore the city from the water with a café and save yourself public transport. If you want to capture the skyline on a souvenir photo, a boat tour across Lake Michigan is recommended. The backdrop with the light blue water and the numerous skyscrapers in the background is a highlight for tourists and residents alike.

Chicago, The Bean
“The Bean”, a sculpture by British artist Anish Kapoor, Image: SGDPhotography / shutterstock

The Navy Pier juts out one kilometer into Lake Michigan. The wide pier, built in 1916, is now one of the city’s most popular hotspots. Families with children in particular appreciate the extensive range of attractions for young and old. A botanical garden, a maze, a Ferris wheel and numerous rides attract young and old visitors. On rainy days, the Children’s Museum, the Shakespeare Theater or the IMAX cinema provide entertainment.

Lincoln Park is the largest park in the city and, like Millennium Park, is located on the shores of Lake Michigan. In addition to its beautiful nature, the park impresses above all with its exciting zoo, a wide range of sports facilities, beaches, a conservatory, museums and a golf course. Children can let off steam in the playgrounds, while parents can take a break from sightseeing in the city.

If you love shopping, Michigan Avenue is not to be missed. The main shopping street with its many shops, boutiques and restaurants is a true shopper’s paradise amidst historic and architecturally impressive buildings.

Culinary delights made in Chicago

Chicago is home to a variety of cultural influences. Italian culture in particular has had a lasting impact on the city, which is also reflected in the traditional dishes of the metropolis.

Chicago Deep Dish Pizza
The Deep-Dish Pizza Chicago Style, Image: Brent Hofacker / shutterstock

A popular dish bears the name of the city. The Chicago Style Pizza, also known as Deep Dish Pizza, is the slightly different version of the Italian cult food. The edge of the pizza is much higher here, similar to a quiche or pie. It is filled with sausage, tomatoes and cheese and gratinated. Tomato sauce and Parmesan are often added to the “pizza cake”.

America and sandwiches go together like stars and stripes A particularly delicious variant can be found in Chicago under the name Italian Beef. Boiled beef is cut into wafer-thin slices and served in fresh white bread.

A popular food is and remains the hot dog. Countless food stalls sell the sausages with cabbage, fried onions and gherkins in bread on almost every corner of the city. Hot dogs are practical, easy to eat on the go and are a welcome refreshment after long excursions in the city.

Steaks and ribs, called “ribs”, are also very popular with French fries or potato wedges. In general, Chicagoans love grilled food, which is why there is a wide selection of steakhouses and restaurants with grills.

If you like sweets, you will be thrilled by the wonderfully creamy Chicago Cheesecake. The cheesecake is usually served with strawberry jam or sauces and is a delicious taste experience.

More information about the city can be found on Wikipedia.

Saudi Arabia – a beautiful country opens its veil

PatrickJullien
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Saudi Arabia – a beautiful country opens its veil

For a long time, Saudi Arabia was a country that puzzled the world because some things there felt as if the Middle Ages were still present. But the kingdom wants to open up, and while it was previously only possible for tourists to obtain a visa in the care of a group, this is now also possible for individual travellers. The restrictions that have been in place so far will also be eased in Saudi Arabia as part of the “Vision 2013” project. Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman wants to make his country fit for the future, and by the way, this also included the lifting of the driving ban for women. On a trip through Saudi Arabia, tourists will be able to visit the testimonies from the time of the ancient Nabataean empire. This beautiful country is opening its veil, even if the holy cities of Mecca and Medina will continue to be open only to people of the Islamic faith.

The fortress Qasr Za’abel, Image: Gimas / shutterstock

But some things are still very different with the Saudis than in the Arab neighborhood. And so the old port city of Jeddah is something of an exception to the rule. It is fun-loving and cosmopolitan and has blossomed into a modern metropolis years ago. Saudi Arabia is said to be a “fearful giant”. Anxious probably because the all-powerful house of the king finds it difficult to assess how his subjects assess the everyday things of their lives. When a few years ago the consumption of alcoholic beverages was to be banned as well as the consumption of smoking, there was a loud outcry of protest – by Arab standards. As a result, the request to also put nicotine on the list of bans was not pursued.

Now, it would be an exaggeration to claim that Saudi Arabia will join Western customs in the foreseeable future. Rather, this is the land of the Prophet, where millions of pilgrims crowd around the Kaaba of Mecca and where traditions are still cherished and cultivated. However, the visual differences in Saudi Arabia range from the picturesque Bedouin villages in the mountains of the south to the skyscrapers of the modern capital Riyadh.

Saudi Arabia, Mecca Royal Clock Tower Hotel
The Mecca Royal Clock Tower Hotel, Image: MAbdullah / shutterstock

Al-Ahsa is one of the most historic regions in the country. This is an area where the infinity of the desert merges into an agricultural idyll. With the metropolis of Hofuf, Al-Ahsa, which has been declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, is considered the “largest oasis in the world”. Here, 2.5 million palm trees were planted and a sophisticated irrigation system was devised. The Mada ́in Salih excavation site is also on the UNESCO list. The place is about four hundred kilometers from Medina and is basically a huge cemetery. 111 monumental tombs have been discovered here, and they are said to be almost two thousand years old. The decorations carved into the red rock and the inscriptions in Aramaic and Thamudic are impressive.

In Mada ́in Salih you can also visit an old station building and its locomotive. These are the remains of the former Hejaz railway, which, according to the ideas of the royal family more than a hundred years ago, was supposed to connect Syrian Damascus with Mecca. However, it was never completed. Old Jeddah, on the other hand, has retained its reputation as the “gateway to Mecca” for centuries. A tribe of Yemenis founded the town more than two and a half millennia ago. In the early Middle Ages, Old Jeddah received a city wall worth seeing.

Interview with Mihael Djukic about his trip to Saudi Arabia

Even the minister responsible for tourism development, a prince of the royal family, raves about Saudi Arabia’s breathtaking natural beauty. He refers to his country as a “treasury”, but also pointed out that Saudi Arabia will never give up its cultural values as the homeland of the Prophet. This also includes the ban on alcoholic beverages, to which holidaymakers must also submit.

Travel information Saudi Arabia

Capital Riyadh
Form of government Monarchy
Absolute monarchy
Currency Saudi Riyal (SAR)
Area approx. 2,149,690 km²
Population approx. 31,742,308 (2016 est.)
Languages Arabic
Electricity grid 127/220 volts, 60 Hz
Area code +966
Time zone UTC+3

 

St. Petersburg – The Venice of the North

PatrickJullien
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St. Petersburg – The Venice of the North

It is not only the famous “White Nights” that make St. Petersburg an extraordinary city with a relatively young history. Built by a despotic tsar who wanted to make the city a second Moscow, St. Petersburg is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site with its more than 2300 castles, palaces and magnificent buildings. Even today, the Church of the Resurrection with its colorful onion domes is reminiscent of Moscow’s St. Basil’s Cathedral.

St. Petersburg – Nature and an impressive city culture

St. Petersburg was founded in 1703 on a swampy island in the Neva river delta in the middle of an inaccessible area without paths and roads. The numerous river arms run through the city today and more than 580 bridges give the city of millions a very special flair. The center of St. Petersburg is spread over four larger islands and is connected to each other by many bridges. The land is so flat that the bridges often have to be folded up to allow ships to pass. It is not for nothing that St. Petersburg is also known as the “Venice of the North”. The Neva itself is the outflow of Lake Ladoga and is about 74 km long.

St. Petersburg is the northernmost city in the world and accordingly has to contend with Arctic weather conditions in winter. And even in summer, the daytime temperatures are only +20 °C on average. The world-famous “White Nights” can be experienced for yourself on the summer solstice on June 21 every year. Then it doesn’t get completely dark at night and life goes on at night.

St. Peterbsurg, Holy Trinity Cathedral
The Holy Trinity Cathedral, Image: FOTOGRIN / shutterstock

But despite all the adverse circumstances, the city has developed over time into a city worth living in and a destination for holidaymakers from all over the world. The wonderful historic buildings have survived both the Soviet era and the concrete sins of the post-war period unscathed. It is not for nothing that St. Petersburg, with its large number of museums and palaces, is today “Russia’s Capital of Culture” and, with its historic center, one of the most beautiful witnesses of the Tsarist era. Numerous cathedrals, the Peterhof and the Winter Palace of the Tsars with today’s art museum “Hermitage” are among the most popular sights of the city. The former Tsar’s Palace was built in 1754 by the architect Bartolomeo Rastrelli. Today, important works of art are housed in a total of five historic palaces.

Strolling, shopping and marveling in St. Petersburg

The old boulevard of the city is the more than 4.5 km long Nevsky Prospekt with its magnificent buildings and exclusive shops, whereby the Nevsky Prospekt is often compared to the Champs-Élysées in Paris . The stroll along the avenue leads along impressive magnificent buildings of rich aristocrats over numerous bridges from the Alexander Nevsky Monastery to the Admiralty. Within the city center there are also other sights such as the Bolshoi Prospekt and the surroundings of the Tauride Garden. The magnificent buildings were executed by such well-known master builders as Bartolomeo Rastrelli and Carlo Rossi or Giacomo Quarenghi.

St. Petersburg, St. Isaac's Cathedral
St. Isaac’s Cathedral in St. Petersburg, Image: iryna1 / shutterstock

The former tsar’s residence outside the city is also a reminder of times long past. About 30 km from St. Petersburg is the palace complex and the former summer residence of the Russian tsars. In addition to the Winter Palace in the center of St. Petersburg, the complex is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and impresses with its churches, halls and the wonderful park.

Cyprus – the goddess of love in a divided country

PatrickJullien
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Cyprus – the goddess of love in a divided country

Cyprus – This island has always aroused desires. For centuries it was not good intentions that came with the foreigners, but since vacationers have populated the sunny shores, the Cypriots are happy to be “conquered”. Income from tourism is an important source of well-being in the still divided country. The Republic of Cyprus comprises the southern part – the rest is under the Turkish flag. And there are no signs of a solution to the conflict. A United Nations buffer zone is a restricted military area and may not be entered, but there has been a kind of standstill agreement between the warring powers for years. As a result, Cyprus is largely pacified and an ideal travel destination. It is the island where, according to legend, the goddess Aphrodite emerged from the waters of the Mediterranean and where there is now an “Adonis Trail”.

The Kyrenia Fortress in Northern Cyprus, Image: Nejdet Duzen / shutterstock

On the southern shores, the so-called “Rock of Aphrodite” rises from the shallow waters of the sea. It is always the destination of young couples in summer temperatures, because those who swim around the rock tower three times are said to secure eternal love. A nice idea, and those who have managed the triple circumnavigation make a pilgrimage to the temple of Aphrodite near Kouklia, even if there are only a few ruins left. The goddess of love and beauty has enchanted entire regions of Cyprus with her charm.

A citadel protected the port of Famagusta for a considerable period of history. It is part of the historic city wall and has been called “Othello” since the British colonial era. This was and is to be understood as a bow to William Shakespeare, because the English playwright let his “Moor of Venice” wreak havoc in the harbour fortifications of Famagusta. Cyprus is full of stories and legends. This is an island where tradition and hope for a common political future mingle, and where Nicosia presents itself as the last divided capital of the world.

A beautiful harbour promenade in Limassol, Image: f8grapher / shutterstock

But the brothers, who have been estranged for a long time, have recently become closer, and the “green line”, the line between north and south, has become passable again for the people of Cyprus. Ledrastraße, which used to be the most beautiful boulevard in the city, is now the transit point for pedestrians. If you visit Nicosia , you should visit the Cyprus Museum with its archaeological finds. The old town is still surrounded by a Venetian wall, and the most beautiful panorama is from the upper floor of the observatory. The Greek part of the old town is dominated by the façade of the Archbishop’s Palace.

If you are looking for the most beautiful beaches in Cyprus, you are spoilt for choice. In the south there are extensive sandy beaches, while the bays in the north are rather rocky. Almost all areas suitable for swimming have been awarded a Blue Flag as a sign of cleanliness and service. It is said that there is a suitable bay for every type on this island.

In addition to water sports, golf is the number one holiday activity in Cyprus. Especially in the south, between Limassol and Paphos, sympathizers of this sport will find places close to the sea and among orchids and fruit trees. With good visibility, you can even see the Taurus Mountains on the Turkish mainland from here. A holiday in Cyprus is synonymous with a wealth of impressions. There is the silence of the monasteries, the humming of the cicadas in the trees, the olive groves on the slopes of the mountains, the ruins of former temples, the picturesque alleys of the wine villages in the Troodos Mountains and, last but not least, the kindness and hospitality of the people who live here.

Travel information Cyprus

Capital Nicosia
Form of government Republic
Presidential system
Currency Euro (EUR)
Area de facto 5,896 km²
de jure 9.2511 km²
Population 848,300 (2015, de facto)
1,179,551 (2017, Cyprus)
Languages Greek and Turkish
Electricity grid 240 volts, 50 Hz
Area code +357
Time zone UTC+2 Eastern European Time
UTC+3 Eastern European Summer Time

 

Hungary – where the vines ripen in Transdanubia

PatrickJullien
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Hungary – where the vines ripen in Transdanubia

The sun of summer has baked the old walls of the village warm. It is the region where swallows feel very comfortable and where the bees buzz around the fig trees. Here, in the south of Hungary, the soil is fertile, and it allows a good wine to flourish. We are talking about Transdanubia, one of the most romantic regions in Hungary. There, where Danube Swabians, Romanians, Serbs and Croats once followed the call of Empress Maria Theresa and settled with the Magyars. With the patience of an angel and great perseverance, they urbanized this country, which in the meantime also took a liking to the Ottoman Sultan Süleiman the Magnificent. He was buried in the village of Szigetvar after his troops lost an important battle. Hungary enjoys many faces and a trip there is a journey to nature, enjoyment and culture.

In the Hungarian capital Budapest , the chains of the historic suspension bridge over the Danube are given a golden coat of paint in the dark. They shine as a symbol of regained freedom. Within sight of the bridge rises the parliament – a hundred meters high and two hundred and fifty meters long. Some Hungarians think that this defiant building is also something of a symbol. This for the megalomania of an era. The gigantic Heroes’ Memorial Square in Budapest also has something symbolic, because there kings and princes are illuminated on their stone pedestals. None of them were granted the privilege of preventing this country from falling under the thumb of foreign powers.

Hungary is no longer Marx and Engels. And it is no longer the home of the charming “Piroschka” from the film with Liselotte Pulver. Hungary is a lively present, blessed with wide steppes and an almost melancholic landscape. As a holidaymaker, you can even live here behind lock and key. In castles and manor houses that have been converted into posh hotels. Of course, with a park around it and all this at prices that holidaymakers in many other countries can only dream of. The “Palota” is one of the most elegant hotel addresses in this country – located in the middle of the Bükki-Nemzeti National Park. Where formerly deserving workers of the people and trade union officials were pampered, a waterfall still rushes into Lake Hámori next to the old splendour.

The hilly land between the Danube and Drava is lovely, where the Celts and Romans planted vines and pressed grapes. The Mediterranean climate of the region in southwestern Hungary not only delights the numerous holidaymakers who spend the most beautiful days of their year here, but also the winegrowers. The composer Franz Liszt once worked in the small town of Szekszárd, who is now commemorated by a music school. Traces of the Habsburg era can be found in the county house, which was built on the ruins of an old Benedictine abbey, and in the beautiful church.

A beautiful view of Budapest, Image: ZGPhotography / shutterstock

The Eldorado for nature lovers is the Gemenc Forest Nature Reserve, which is located in the floodplain of the Danube and where one of the most beautiful alluvial forests in Europe has developed. It is an area that is easy to hike and that you can also enjoy while cycling. Wild boars and deer live in the forests, and white-tailed eagles and black storks circle above everything.

All Hungarians are probably familiar with Mohácz, because this name is synonymous with the memory of a historic defeat of the Magyars at the hands of the Ottomans. However, all this happened as early as 1526. After all, a park in Mohácz commemorates the battle that strengthened the Habsburgs’ sphere of influence and led to the Ottoman conquest of large parts of Hungary and Croatia. Traces of the multicultural heritage of this country can also be found in the dialect of many inhabitants. This is the case in Nagynyárád, where not only old customs and old crafts are cultivated, but also a dialect that sounds old-fashioned southern German and is interwoven with Hungarian rags. Hungary – that is also the breath of history and a pinch of yesterday’s dream.

Travel information Hungary

Capital Budapest
Form of government parliamentary republic
Parliamentary system
Currency Forint (HUF)
Area approx. 93,036 km²
Population approx. 9,830,485 (2016)
Languages Hungarian
Electricity grid 230 volts, 50 Hz
Area code +36
Time zone UTC+1 CET
UTC+2 CEST (March to October)

 

Ukraine – at the interface between East and West

PatrickJullien
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Ukraine – at the interface between East and West

It is with great horror that we see the sad images from Ukraine. We have decided to leave the following article from 2018 unchanged for the time being in order to present the beauty of Ukraine before the outbreak of the war. Our thoughts are with the families on site.

Behind the slightly pale windows of the train, the meadows glide by, and the rays of the early sun of the day sparkle in the dew on the grass. Carriages can be seen on the narrow paths that lead to the old villages and, of course, the many nests of storks on the electricity pylons at the edge of the railway line. A trip on one of the last narrow-gauge railways on the continent is like a trip back in time. This is possible in Ukraine, and this country is not really as medieval as the fleeting images of a train ride convey. After all, Ukraine was once considered a pioneer in Europe. The people of the country fondly remember it as their Princess Anna, who was once married by her father, Grand Duke Yaroslav, to the royal court in France . And it is precisely this Princess Anna who is said to have complained about “backward Paris” after her trip from Kiev . Charles de Gaulle also raved about the metropolis: “I have seen many parks in cities, but never a city that is located in a park…”

The Museum of Folk Architecture and Rural Life in Lviv, Image: Ruslan Kalnitsky / shutterstock

Kiev’s golden era is still evident today in the impressive Art Nouveau facades in the city. The city was a cultural and economic center at the interface between East and West. The city on the murky waters of the Dnieper cherishes and cultivates its nimbus as a worthwhile destination for holidaymakers who are not only enterprising but also thirsty for knowledge. Because there is a lot to see in Kiev, although Ukraine as a modern state has basically only existed since 1991. At that time, 91 percent of citizens pleaded in a referendum for the independence of their country.

If you look around Kyiv’s surroundings, you will discover amazing things. For example, the Mezhyhirya Palace, the former residence of President Viktor Yanukovych, who fled to Russia in 2014. Today, this house is also open to visitors, and during tours you will even be shown the golden toilet bowl of the ex-dictator.

A frozen lake in Ukraine, Image: Standret / shutterstock

The Sophia Cathedral and the Lavra Cave Monastery are world-famous. Both can now be found on the UNESCO World Heritage List. Once upon a time, the caves on a hill on the west bank of the Dnieper served as a domicile for hermits. Later, the monks were buried here. Those God-fearing people who are revered as saints by Ukrainians today. Incidentally, the memory of Grand Duke Volodymyr, who made Kiev a Christian city, is also cherished as a saint. He is said to have given the order for the construction of four hundred churches. However, many of them disappeared during the Soviet occupation.

As for Odessa, the port city on the Black Sea, the residents of Kiev claim that it is a little “crazy”. Odessa certainly reflects the somewhat different Ukraine. It is casual here and not a few see this city as a pearl of the south. With the famous Potemkin Staircase, which leads over exactly 192 steps from the Old Town to the harbor and has become the visual symbol and landmark of Odessa. This is a city on the move, where the colors of the legendary tsar’s daughters dominate the streets: Russian green, lilac blue and yellow like the butterflies in the park.

The city of Lviv with its extraordinary cultural program is also recommended.

The crises and wars after the secession of Crimea have cast a shadow over Ukraine as a travel destination. Although some precautions are useful for round trips and you should also be prepared for one or the other pothole on the roads, tourist stays in this interesting country are recommended to all those who are interested in culture and lifestyle. And regardless of whether you are travelling by intercity bus or train, almost everyone can easily get into conversation with the hospitable people in Ukraine.

Travel information Ukraine

Capital Kiev
Form of government Republic
semi-presidential system
Currency Hryvnia (UAH)
Area approx. 603,700 (including 26,080 AR Crimea and 864 city of Sevastopol) km²
Population 42,854,106, excluding AR Crimea and the city of Sevastopol (May 1, 2015)
Languages Ukrainian
Electricity grid 220 volts, 50 Hz
Area code +380
Time zone UTC+2
UTC+3 (March to October)

 

Tunisia – the silence of the desert and ancient Carthage

PatrickJullien
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0
Tunisia – the silence of the desert and ancient Carthage

This backdrop would also do honor to a feature film. A caravan of tourists moves along the edge of the El Hofra dunes not far from the Tunisian oasis of Douz. It is the “gateway to the Sahara”, and those who leave the periphery of the small desert town behind and have become accustomed to the rocking gait of the camels will very soon be trapped by sand, sun and an incredible silence. The largest dry desert on earth extends over enormous dimensions – from the Moroccan Atlantic coast to the Red Sea.

And Tunisia is one of the countries where life in the desert determines the everyday life of the people who live there. A trip through this region of North Africa gives the holidaymaker an exciting mixture of a diverse landscape with countless historical treasures and an amazingly modern culture. Tunisia has much more to offer than just spending time on the beaches of the Mediterranean. The country is also recommended for trekking tours to shady oases, to the testimonies of the Roman era or to wondrous rock gardens. They are all tourist highlights in Tunisia.

Tunisia, Medina of Sousse
Medina of Sousse, Image: Romas_Photo / shutterstock

Between the 12th and 16th centuries, the capital Tunis was one of the most important metropolises in the Islamic world. Its history is closely linked to the rise and fall of the ancient trading republic of Carthage, which finally had to recognize Roman hegemony in the Mediterranean region after Hannibal’s defeat in the Battle of Zama. There, as once Carthage’s center of power was located, today are the villas of a suburb of Tunis. Only the ruins of history remain, and the people of this area are convinced that every stone that can be found there is like a book and every pillar bears witness to history. In its heyday, Carthage was the North African hub of literature and art.

Anyone who visits the remains of Carthage as a holidaymaker today will be amazed at the numerous luxury cars in front of the magnificent white houses on the way to the old castle hill. They bear witness to the considerable prosperity of their owners and are in stark contrast to the poor districts of Tunis and the rest of the country. Around thirty years ago, the capital began the restoration of its medina, which is now one of the best-preserved historic districts in North Africa. In the throng of people beyond the Bab-el-Bahr city gate, the imposing Djamaa Ez-Zitouna mosque cannot be overlooked. In the neighboring Souk El Attarine, perfume merchants have always settled, offering essences and incense, among other things. The entire old town of Tunis was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1979.

Tunisia, Chebika
A waterfall in the mountain oasis of Chibika, Image: Sergii Nagornyi / shutterstock

It is about 130 kilometers from Tunis to the port city of Sousse, which is surrounded by a medieval city wall. It was founded by the Phoenicians and largely destroyed by the Arabs in the 7th century. With its modern hotels and 40,000 guest beds, Sousse is a tourist heavyweight in Tunisia. UNESCO also ennobled the old town there with an entry in the World Heritage List.

Douz is a good starting point for activities in the Sahara. The area around the city is inhabited by the semi-nomadic tribe of the Mrazig, who offer their products at the weekly market of Douz. They range from the traditional jewellery of the Berbers to chickens, camels and the Slougis, a dog breed that originated in Morocco and is now valued as an oriental greyhound breed all over North Africa. If you are a holidaymaker lucky enough to be in Douz at the end of December, you can enjoy the international Sahara Festival. It enchants for four days with dances, music, dog races and the traditional camel wrestling.

Trekking tours through Tunisia are the encounter with the silence and solitude of the Sahara. And if you leave the infinity of the desert regions and enter one of the shady oases, you will be almost paralyzed after days under the blazing sun and enduring heat and dust under the palm roofs. Some people are then inclined to greet each of these palms individually and joyfully.

The island of Djerba also invites sun-seekers to relax.

Travel information Tunisia

Capital Tunis
Form of government Republic
semi-presidential system
Currency Tunisian dinar (TND)
Area approx. 163,610 km²
Population approx. 11,299,400 (2016 est.)
Languages Arabic
Electricity grid 230 volts, 50 Hz
Area code +216
Time zone UTC+1 CET
UTC+2 CEST (March to October)

 

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