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Helsinki – the daughter of the Baltic Sea

PatrickJullien
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Helsinki – the daughter of the Baltic Sea

On the north coast of the Gulf of Finland, on a rugged granite peninsula, lies Helsinki – an architectural gem and the spiritual centre of Finland. The lively city by the sea conveys a refreshing and at the same time relaxed rhythm with its enchanting islands, magnificent parks and cultural institutions. Old wooden house districts harmonize with modern architecture, lively urbanity leaves enough space for idyllic, quieter quarters, the sea can be felt everywhere and, last but not least, the greenery of the numerous parks beckons – Helsinki’s charm undoubtedly lies in its wealth of contrasts.

A stroll through the city that inspires

Spacious streets and boulevards give the city an airy character.
The bright facades have earned Helsinki the nickname “white city of the north”.
In a light, Mediterranean-spiced atmosphere, visitors enjoy a charming city tour, which is best started at the magnificent Senate Square. “The “living room of Helsinki” houses the statue of the Russian Tsar Alexander II, the Lutheran cathedral, the university and the Empire-style government palace. In the magnificent university library there is a treasure trove of bound knowledge. Helsinki’s heart is the Market Square.

Located on the north side of the South Harbour, it exudes an extraordinary charm even on cold winter days. Monday to Saturday from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. there is a colourful market hustle and bustle here. Ferries coming from Sweden dock on both sides of the harbour. Meanwhile, you can enjoy the view of the presidential palace and the town hall. At the beginning of the esplanade, which stretches from the market square to the Swedish Theatre, is the traditional wooden pavilion Kappeli. Well-known Finnish shops for jewellery, fashion and design enrich this promenade. There is even a heated walkway. Not far away is the impressive train station with a 48-metre-high clock tower, designed by the Finnish architect Eliel Saarinen. Northwest of the post office rises the Reichstag, a massive building in neoclassical style.

Architectural masterpieces in a grandiose museum landscape

Helsinki, National Museum
The National Museum in Helsinki, Image: Angyalosi Beata / shutterstock

Helsinki has over 80 different museums, not all of which can be visited in a single visit. Among the most popular and impressive museums are undoubtedly the City Museum, the National Museum, the Ateneum with art from different eras and the open-air museum on the beautiful island of Seurasaari. On the island with old buildings and a wooden church of Karuna, the people of Helsinki celebrate their midsummer festival. A visit to the Korkeasaari zoo with aquarium and South America House is also popular. The zoo is easily accessible by boat from the North and South Harbours.

In the southeast of the city, the Museum Island Suomenlinna beckons. The fortress island has been declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO and is one of the most popular sights in Finland. Built in 1748 by A. Ehrensvärd, the fortress was considered impregnable. It resembles an entire district with 200 buildings and 1000 inhabitants. In 1809, however, it was conquered by the Russians without a fight. The island is home to the Customs Museum, the Vesikko submarine, a war museum, the Toy Museum and the Suomenlinna Museum.

Tip: If you want to enjoy a fantastic view of the city, visit the Olympic Stadium. There is a 72-metre-high observation tower here, just a few minutes’ walk from the train station. In addition, you can take beautiful boat trips through the archipelago off Helsinki. A popular destination is the charming summer town of Porvoo.

Helsinki’s foodie oasis

Helsinki, Suomenlinna
Suomenlinna Fortress has a lot to offer, Image: Tomas Pecold / shutterstock

Traditional eateries, countless restaurants, charming cafés as well as trendy pubs and bars – Helsinki’s gourmet scene is diverse and innovative. Inspired by many culinary cultures, the Russian twist is particularly interesting. While the Swede eats lobster on New Year’s Eve, the Finn enjoys delicious bilnis – thick Russian pancakes. The Fazer confectionery in Kluuviaktu is a popular attraction. The café impresses with a listed interior.

On Senate Square, visitors prefer Café Engel and on the northern esplanade Café Strindberg. The “Helsinki Menu” or the “Helsinki Street Food Festival” are famous. The city’s cultural districts are transformed into gourmet temples and entice with the most diverse flavors of the world. Meanwhile, about 20 restaurants participate in the “Helsinki Menu” and offer seasonal Finnish dishes. The Luomo restaurant and the Chez Dominique are among the gourmet restaurants. The trendy pubs of the trendy district of Punavuori provide an entertaining nightlife.

Tip: If you are looking for delicious Finnish regional products, you will find them in the market hall. Helsinki’s oldest market hall, dating back to 1888, offers many culinary specialties. From reindeer salami to smoked fish to cloudberry jam, you can find pretty much everything.

Public transport in Helsinki

Public transport in Helsinki is well-organized and offers a convenient way to explore the city and its surroundings. Here is some important information about public transport in Helsinki:

  1. Vehicle: There are several modes of transportation available in Helsinki, including buses, trams, ferries, metros, and trains. The network is well developed and connects the city with its suburbs.
  2. HSL cards: Most public transport in Helsinki is operated by Helsingin seudun liikenne (HSL), the transport company of the Helsinki region. You can purchase tickets and tickets for all means of transport at points of sale, vending machines or online. There are day tickets, monthly tickets and single tickets to choose from.
  3. Tramways: Helsinki has a dense tram network that covers the city center and many suburbs. The trams are a popular way to get around the city.
  4. Buses: Buses are an important part of public transport in Helsinki and cover a large area. They are especially useful for reaching neighborhoods that are not served by the metro or trams.
  5. Subway: The Helsinki Metro connects the city centre with the eastern and western suburbs. It’s a quick and efficient way to get around the city.
  6. Ferries: Helsinki is surrounded by water, and ferries are an important transportation option to reach the city’s islands and nearby coastal regions.
  7. Trains: The Finnish State Railways (VR) operates trains that connect Helsinki with other cities in Finland and even with cities in other countries such as St. Petersburg, Russia.
  8. Travel planning: The HSL website and mobile apps provide real-time information about schedules, routes, and ticket prices. You can also buy tickets online and plan trips.
  9. Accessibility: Most transport in Helsinki is barrier-free and accessible to people with limited mobility.
  10. Bike: Helsinki encourages the use of bicycles, and there are many bike rental stations in the city. You can also bring your own bike and use it on public transport.

Public transport in Helsinki is reliable and efficient, making it easy for tourists and residents to explore and commute around the city. It is an eco-friendly option to experience Helsinki and see the sights.

Museums in Helsinki

Helsinki has a wide range of museums that cover various aspects of Finnish culture, history, art, and science. Here are some of the most famous museums in Helsinki:

  1. National Museum of Finland (Kansallismuseo): This museum is dedicated to Finnish history and culture and houses an impressive collection of artifacts, including artworks, historical objects, and archaeological finds.
  2. Ateneum Art Museum: The Ateneum is Finland’s leading art museum and houses an extensive collection of Finnish art from different eras, as well as European masterpieces.
  3. Kiasma Museum of Modern Art: Kiasma is Finland’s leading contemporary art museum, showcasing a wide range of modern artworks, including paintings, sculptures, and installations.
  4. Helsinki Design Museum: This museum is dedicated to Finnish design and industrial design. It presents an impressive collection of objects, furniture and fashion that shows the evolution of Finnish design.
  5. Suomenlinna Museum: Suomenlinna is a historic sea fortress just outside Helsinki. The museum on the island tells the story of the fortress and its importance to Finland.
  6. Finnish Museum of Natural History (Luonnontieteellinen museo): This museum offers insight into Finland’s natural history and houses an impressive collection of animal and plant exhibits.
  7. Amos Rex: A modern art museum built underground that presents innovative temporary exhibitions and installations.
  8. Sinebrychoff Art Museum: Housed in a beautiful historic mansion, this museum showcases European artworks, including works by Rembrandt, Goya, and van Dyck.
  9. Seurasaari Open-Air Museum: On the island of Seurasaari, visitors can experience life in Finland in past centuries. It is an open-air museum with historical buildings and traditional activities.
  10. Kiasma Museum of Contemporary Art: This museum is part of the National Gallery of Finland and is dedicated to contemporary art. It presents works by Finnish and international artists.

This is just a selection of the museums in Helsinki, and there are many more that cover different interests and aspects of Finnish culture. From art and history to nature and science, there is plenty to discover in Helsinki for museum enthusiasts.

Facts about Helsinki

  1. Location: Helsinki is located on the southern coast of Finland on the Gulf of Finland and is the largest city in the country. It is also the northernmost capital of the European Union.
  2. Architecture: Helsinki is known for its impressive architecture. The city offers a mix of classical, neoclassical and modern architecture. The Helsinki Cathedral is an outstanding example of neoclassical architecture.
  3. Green City: Helsinki is a green city with many parks and green spaces. Sibelius Park, Esplanade Park, and Central Park are some of the popular places for residents and visitors to enjoy nature.
  4. Design Capital: Helsinki holds the title of “World Design Capital” and is known for its strong commitment to design and architecture. It is home to many design shops, museums and the annual Helsinki Design Week festival.
  5. Islands: Helsinki is made up of a variety of islands, some of which are open to the public. Suomenlinna Fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is located on a group of islands off the coast of Helsinki and is a popular destination.
  6. Education: Helsinki is home to several prestigious universities, including the University of Helsinki, which is one of the oldest and most prestigious in Europe.
  7. Sauna culture: The sauna is an important part of Finnish culture, and Helsinki offers numerous public saunas that residents like to use.
  8. Music: Helsinki has a vibrant music scene and is home to the Finnish Radio Symphony Orchestra and the Finnish National Theatre.
  9. Port: The port of Helsinki is one of the busiest in Europe and a major hub for ferry services to Sweden and Estonia.
  10. Winter darkness: Due to its northern location, Helsinki only experiences a few hours of daylight in winter. This creates a special winter vibe, which is used by residents through events such as the Lux Helsinki Festival and Restaurant Day.

Nuremberg – “The apple of the eye of princes and lords”

PatrickJullien
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Nuremberg – “The apple of the eye of princes and lords”

The city of the Meistersinger and Hans Sachs, the city of Albrecht Dürer, the first German railway and the inventor of the pocket watch Peter Henlein is not a city of slug window romanticism. The destruction in the Second World War has taken away all illusions in this respect. However – a big compliment to the Nuremberg city fathers: They resisted the temptation to build a concrete city on the ruins of the old town. Architects and craftsmen carefully resurrected the historic core city. As if in magic, they restored imaginatively and skillfully. The choirs and oriels have been adapted to the medieval heritage. The historic old town determines the image of the Franconian metropolis in a wonderful way. Nuremberg is cozy, traditional, hospitable, interesting, original and dynamic.

In the heart of the city of Nuremberg

How strongly one is connected to Nuremberg’s city history is shown by the popular Old Town walks of the Nuremberg “Association of Friends of the Old Town”. The city can also be discovered unaccompanied. The starting point could be the main market. Here, the column of the oldest fountain in the city protrudes like a Gothic church spire. In the background, the towers of St. Sebaldus’ Church appear. The spacious square offers visitors from all over the world enough space for a magnificent view up to the mighty “Nourenberg”.

Meanwhile, the half-timbering of respectable citizens impresses and a turret contemplatively adorns the Pilatus House. Right across the street is the house of Nuremberg’s most famous man: Albrecht Dürer. On the approximately three-hour circular route, visitors enjoy a magical flair. Similar to a journey through time, they encounter countless locations. The town hall with hole prisons invites you to take an exciting tour. The 14th-century dungeons are in their original state and house torture chambers and a blacksmith’s workshop. The “Fränkische Weinstube” in the Handwerkerhof invites you to stop for a bite to eat.

The farm is located in the middle of the city, framed by the towers and walls of the five-kilometre-long city fortifications. Small, delightful half-timbered houses adorn this mini-city. Here you can look over the shoulders of the craftsmen and buy beautiful products. If you don’t shy away from the ascent to the Kaiserburg after all these impressions, you will be rewarded with a beautiful view over the city.

All kinds of interesting facts about the “treasure chest of the empire”

The crowning landmark of the old town is the Imperial Castle, which towers over the city on a mighty sandstone rock. 32 German emperors and kings have written German history from here. The Imperial Castle is one of the most important castle complexes in Central Europe. Particularly interesting are the romantic castle chapel, the knights’ and emperor’s hall as well as the Sinwell Tower. Discovering historic Nuremberg is easy. Visitors can reach countless art treasures and monuments on short distances. The three largest medieval churches are located directly at the foot of the Imperial Castle. In the middle of the closed half-timbered building at Tiergärtner Tor is Albrecht Dürer’s residence. He bought it in 1509 and lived in it until his death in 1528. A museum documents his life and work. After a stroll through history, a visit to the toy museum is recommended.

Where children’s dreams come true, well-known traditional companies have their headquarters today. For over 30 years, the Toy Museum has been captivating young and old. The “Nuremberg trinkets” have a tradition. No less famous is the Nuremberg Christmas Market. Who will leave Nuremberg without having nibbled on the historic gingerbread or tasted the Nuremberg bratwurst?

Not to forget, the lyre of the Frauenkirche. The carillon of Nuremberg’s Frauenkirche on the market square is something special: at 12 noon sharp, the 7 electors step out of the gable wall and pay homage to the emperor. This was once stipulated by Charles IV in his imperial constitution.

Tip: The castle district of Nuremberg is also lively at night and invites you to varied moments with a variety of pubs, culinary meetings and cabaret stages.

Nuremberg, Christmas Market, Frauenkirche
The Nuremberg Christmas Market. In the background you can see the Frauenkirche, Image: Mapics / shutterstock

Nuremberg, the city of museums and important personalities

As in only a few other major German cities, a large number of museums are concentrated on the Pegnitz, some of them of extraordinary importance. The Germanisches Nationalmuseum inspires with 1.2 million cultural-historical objects. The Kunsthalle Nürnberg presents impressive contemporary art and the Stadtmuseum Fembohaus invites you to 950 years of city history.

Not to forget the numerous personalities who made history in Nuremberg. In addition to Albrecht Dürer: Martin Behaim (1459-1507) – builder of the first globe, Adam Kraft (1455-1508) – sculptor, Hans Sachs (1494-1576) – poet and master singer and Peter Henlein (1480-15429) – inventor of the pocket watch. Nuremberg is a true “treasure chest”.

Nepal – at the foot of an icy peak and very poor

PatrickJullien
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0
Nepal – at the foot of an icy peak and very poor

Nepal, the country beneath the icy peaks of the Himalayas, has retained its unique charm. It has remained a dream destination and neither the movement of the hippies nor the horror of a devastating earthquake could do anything lasting to this region. The Nepalese are still convinced that their long way to nirvana leads through their capital Kathmandu. And anyone who strolls through this mystical metropolis as a visitor sometimes holds their breath. The temples and gods are decorated with flowers in Nepal. Many of the once fifty temples, pagodas and palaces in the center of Kathmandu were restored or at least provisionally repaired after the earthquake. Nepal owes this in particular to the income from tourism, because year after year more than 800,000 visitors travel to this poor and yet so rich country because of its culture.

Nepal, The Shanti Stupa Monument, Pokhara
The Shanti Stupa Monument, Pokhara, Image: Damian Pankowiec /shutterstock

England’s Queen Elizabeth II signed up for a visit to Nepal ten years after her coronation in 1961, causing considerable problems for her hosts. They wanted to offer the regent a worthy setting, but the dwarf state between India and Tibet was hardly prepared for this. So a small castle was hastily built, which was later converted into a restaurant. At that time, Nepal was still a blank spot on the map of international tourism. This only changed ten years later, when the “flower children” discovered this region for themselves. Probably also because the stuff that dreams are made of, which is forbidden in many places, was inexpensive and available everywhere.

The hippies left and the holidaymakers came. This was a blessing for the country, because now the license fees of an Everest ascent were joined by income from tourism. New hotels were built in Kathmandu and Pokhara, and those guests who expected a luxurious standard of accommodation also felt at home at Shangri La. The Hotel Shanker was housed in a hundred-year-old palace and in the Hotel Dwarika’s visitors encountered a dignified elegance that they would hardly have expected in this region.

A man on the Annapurna circuit trek in Nepal, Image: MOROZ NATALIYA / shutterstock

Almost twenty million people are at home in Nepal. Most of them live by cultivating their fields in the valleys and on the slopes of the mountains. But the usable area is very small, so that this country is still one of the poorest in the world. But the mountain farmers of the Gurung people bear their obvious poverty with great dignity.
If you don’t feel fit enough for trekking as a vacationer, you should at least try hiking in Nepal. Because in this country the sky knows no boundaries and the paths lead to lonely areas or to steep and green mountain slopes. The distant peaks of the Himalayan massif are enthroned above everything. For the guests from another world, this is a departure into breathlessness, because the air at altitude is quite thin. Kathmandu is already 1,500 meters above sea level. From the small airport, planes take off for an Everest sightseeing. The view of the highest mountain on earth is an unforgettable experience – provided there is a sky without clouds.

The flowering rhododendrons, which have their real home in the Himalayas before they adorned gardens in Europe and elsewhere, are the companions on hikes through Nepal. From the rice terraces and Poon Hill, the view falls on Annapurna and the mighty Dhaulagiri. The ice deserts of the eight-thousanders are within reach, especially in Pokhara. The city is the gateway to the historic kingdom of Mustang. The somewhat different Nepal can be seen on a safari in the Royal Chitwan National Park on the border with India. On the back of an elephant, visitors have the chance to experience tigers and rhinos in their ancestral territory.

Travel information Nepal

Capital Kathmandu
Form of government Parliamentary Federal Republic of Germany
Currency Nepalese Rupee (NPR)
Area approx. 147,181 km²
Population approx. 29,305,000 (2017)
Languages Nepali
Electricity grid 230 volts, 50 Hz
Area code +977
Time zone UTC+5:45

 

Malaysia – to headhunters and orangutans in the rainforest

PatrickJullien
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Malaysia – to headhunters and orangutans in the rainforest

The rivers of Malaysia are said to be as clear as gin. This may well be a somewhat glorified depiction, because here and there the floods in the mysterious jungle are rather murky. But if you glide through this green wonderland in the longboat of the locals, you feel like you’re in paradise and tend to dream.

The country, which affords an elective monarchy and in which the king rules for only five years at a time, is spread with its thirteen states on the Malay Peninsula and parts of the island of Borneo – separated by the South China Sea. Deep forests dominate the scenery north of Singapore as well as in Sarawak, where the last nomads of Southeast Asia live. This region is considered the far and wild east of the state.

Malaysia Kuala Lumpur
Malaysia’s capital Kuala Lumpur, Image: Patrick Photo / shutterstock

If you choose a trip to Sarawak for your holiday, you are embarking on a journey through time. Because in the middle of the rainforest with its many colorful butterflies, wild boars and isolated clouded leopards live the descendants of Borneo’s notorious headhunters. Many a tourist is haunted by a strange feeling when he sees a bundle of wire with skeletonized skulls under the ceiling of the longhouses of the people of the Iban tribe in Sarawak.

They are the gruesome remains of Japanese soldiers who fell victim to headhunters during their invasion of Borneo during World War II. Since that time, the manhunt has been banned in Malaysia.

There are only a few roads on the third largest island in the world, and if you turn your back on the metropolis of Kuching, you will end up in the jungle after a few meters. The rainforest still exists – despite the state-ordered and apparently lucrative tree clearance. In Gunung Mulu National Park on the border with the oil-rich neighboring state of Brunei, boat trips and hikes lead to the famous caves. 67 species of mammals and over 260 different species of bird life are at home in the jungles of Malaysia. But also 74 species of frogs, tree monkeys, bearded pigs, honey bears and rhinoceros birds.

Malacca in southwestern Malaysia, Image: Leonid Andronov / shutterstock

It is an unforgettable experience to listen to the sounds of the forest after dark and to enjoy the lovemaking of the fireflies. The Semenggoh Wildlife Centre was founded in 1975 and is a breeding and reintroduction station for orangutans. The animals are fed twice a day, and a guide explains where the orphaned or maltreated creatures were caught and how they want to nurse them back to health in the rehabilitation center. Many orangutans previously lived in captivity of private owners.

The contrast to a visit to the Malaysian part of Borneo is a round trip across the peninsula. Many holidaymakers start in Singapore or fly directly to the capital Kuala Lumpur with its skyscrapers and the Bangunan Sultan Abdul Samad Palace, the longest of all buildings. Behind the impressive backdrop resides the country’s Supreme Court. The Petronas Towers tower over the city and were the tallest buildings in the world until 2004. The Observation Deck on the 86th floor connects the two towers. The KL City Gallery is a museum and conveys impressions of the becoming and being of the city. In the Bukit Bintang district, all those who want to shop in a big city will get their money’s worth. This also applies to Chinatown on Petaling Street with a colorful spectacle every evening.

The kingdom on the Strait of Malacca delights visitors on a round trip but also with wonderful beaches. On the South China Sea, the word Perhentian can be translated as “place to linger” in the north. The colorful fishing boats bob in the small harbor, and turtles lay their eggs on the beach at night. The island of Tioman with its fine sandy beach is not only a popular destination for backpackers.

And Langkawi is the collective name of a group of around a hundred limestone islands on the border with Thailand. Penang is a melting pot of cultures and something like the epitome of the diversity of peoples of this interesting country in Southeast Asia.

Travel information Malaysia

Capital Kuala Lumpur
Form of government Federal, parliamentary electoral monarchy
Currency Ringgit (MYR)
Area approx. 330,290 km²
Population approx. 31,164,000 (2017 est.)
Languages Malaysian
Electricity grid 230/240 volts, 50 Hz
Area code +60
Time zone UTC+8

 

Madagascar – Wonders and Paths in the Land of Smiles

PatrickJullien
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0
Madagascar – Wonders and Paths in the Land of Smiles

This is a land of smiles, lobsters and lemurs. Madagascar is a country beyond Africa, and it is so very different from many regions of the Black Continent. On this large island, holidaymakers can expect a very wide range of impressions and encounters with people who have allied themselves with nature. Knowing full well that this idyll is their greatest treasure.

Madagascar invites you to extensive round trips, because the island is as big as Belgium and France combined. Imposing mountains, green rice terraces, a steppe in the highlands and tropical forests. All this alternates permanently before the eyes of the viewer. The coastline of Madagascar measures 4,800 kilometers, and the beaches are almost always deserted and paradises for divers and snorkelers.

Madagascar, Beach
A picturesque beach in Madagascar, Image: YuG / shutterstock

The deep south of Madagascar begins in a semi-desert not far from Tuléar. Although it rarely rains here, visitors feel that this region is full of life. After all, aloe, euphorbia and didiera thrive here. The farmers in this remote area herd their goats and hope for the blessing from above, which rarely comes in the form of wet cooling. A tasty goat’s cheese is produced here, and the people of this region profess Christianity – but also the creator god Zanahary. They seek advice from their deceased and regard them as mediators between heaven and earth. Superstition has become entrenched in the consciousness of many inhabitants of the Malagasy south.

There are also beaches in the south, but if you are looking for a postcard motif, you should look around in the tropical north of the island. For example, at Ramena, at the Baie de Sakalava or at Mer d’Emeraud east of Diego Suarez. The divers find a shipwreck on Nosy Be at a depth of twenty meters, where schools of colorful fish have settled and the coral reefs are fairly unscathed. Manta rays and whale sharks can be found there, as well as more than thirty different species of dolphins and whales. They find an excellent habitat in the Mozambique Channel of the Indian Ocean.

Madagascar, Wildlife
The animal world in Madagascar is diverse, Image: alfotokunst / shutterstock

Most holidaymakers only know the shy lemurs from the local zoos, but in Madagascar you can observe them in the wild. It is only strange that the Romans, of all people, gave this name to the semi-apes, although the animals were never native to Italy . But the Romans used lemur in their mythology to refer to the spirit of a dead person, which probably led to the people of Madagascar recognizing their reincarnated ancestors in the cute lemurs. In the tropical forests and the deep gorges of the fourth largest island in the world, the lemurs feed on insects and leaves.

Flora and fauna present themselves in Madagascar in their most abundant form, and on the beaches of the mostly uninhabited smaller islands, even the rare red-tailed tropicbirds breed. Thanks to the large number of endemic creatures, Madagascar is something like a museum of creation and a Garden of Eden. The cornucopia of nature also opens up in the Anjajary Nature Reserve, where the bungalows by the sea meet all the requirements of eco-tourism. They are oases of peace in a land of smiles.

Often, the rivers are the fastest way to get around in the jungle of the island. If you entrust yourself to the boats of locals on the Pangalanes Canal, you will pass picturesque villages every now and then, whose houses crouch on the shore and where the women do the laundry and whose children play in a flourishing water world. Madagascar fulfills all the wishes of holidaymakers for a stay in an exotic environment. A dinner by the light of the candles, the lapping of the waves and an indescribable starry sky at night. Madagascar is a poor and yet so rich country.

Travel information Madagascar

Capital Antananarivo
Form of government Republic
Semi-presidential system of government
Currency Ariary (MGA)
Area approx. 587,295 km²
Population approx. 24.900.00
Languages Malagasy and French
Electricity grid 127/220 volts, 50 Hz
Area code +261
Time zone UTC+3

 

City trip – exciting days in the metropolises of this world

PatrickJullien
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0
City trip – exciting days in the metropolises of this world

The latest surveys confirm the general trend: the city trip is not only extremely popular with short vacationers. What makes city trips so attractive is quickly apparent: Within a few days, city travellers can immerse themselves in the culture and traditions of a country, explore numerous sights and, last but not least, take part in a wide variety of local events. But what specifically distinguishes a city trip from other forms of vacation? And what are the advantages of a city trip?

This is what distinguishes the city trip

France Paris, Eiffel Tower
The Eiffel Tower in Paris, Image: Catarina Belova/shutterstock

The central characteristic of a city trip can already be seen from the name: On a pure city trip, the holiday takes place exclusively in a selected city. For this reason, large metropolises such as state capitals are among the most common destinations. With a wide range of cultural events, sights and, last but not least, a well-developed infrastructure, these and other larger cities offer countless opportunities to spend varied days in the city – without having to travel long distances in between. Compared to a round trip or a beach holiday, the main differences are on the one hand in the location and on the other hand in the degree of activity. On city trips, holidaymakers are usually out and about in the city during the day and visit various tourist highlights from museums to architectural monuments, while in the evening hours the local nightlife is explored.

Advantages of a city trip

City break, Bruges
For those who like it a little quieter, Bruges is a good destination for a city trip, Image: TTstudio / shutterstock

Hour-long journeys in the car or by public transport, complicated searches for the booked accommodation, long distances to the nearest supermarket, monotonous beaches that offer little variety in the long run – all these possible annoyances on a holiday in the countryside or on the beach are eliminated on city trips. Those who travel in the well-known metropolises enjoy various advantages instead:

  • The journey to the desired city is usually short and comfortable. Since the common destinations have their own airport or at least a well-developed transport network, the trip can usually be organized with a direct flight or a direct train connection.
  • A convenient transport system can be used on site. The subway, bus and the like make it easy to get around the city centre. Often, cheap tickets are available especially for tourists, with which all important destinations can be reached. Since there is often a lot of activity in large cities even at night, there are sufficient local transport connections even at late hours.
  • On a city trip, you can visit numerous highlights of a country within a short time and get to know a wide variety of people. In this way, holidaymakers can gather a wide variety of impressions of a city and its inhabitants within a weekend.
  • During the city trip, holidaymakers stay in a single accommodation. Thanks to the short distances, all important places can be explored from a fixed location. Travelers who want to explore the nightlife in particular should attach importance to accommodation close to the center.
  • City trips offer security. In international metropolises, inexperienced travelers can easily find English- or German-speaking people who will be happy to help them. In addition, extensive information material about the offers on site is available.

 

Experience city trip – this is what awaits holidaymakers

Immerse yourself in the history of the city, visit architectural masterpieces, discover the cultural life, talk to locals, taste typical local specialties, get to know the dazzling nightlife – city trips can set different accents depending on your interests.

In principle, holidaymakers have two options to choose from when it comes to organising their trip: In the case of a package tour , accommodation and meals and, in some cases, the sightseeing programme are determined in advance. With such a trip, there is no need for the effort of dedicated planning and inexperienced holidaymakers in particular can be sure not to miss any central highlight of the city. Individual travel as a second option, on the other hand, offers the advantage of being able to set priorities in a self-determined way. For example, if you want to get in touch with the city’s residents, you can stay directly with locals and visit restaurants where holidaymakers are otherwise rarely guests. In addition, spontaneous ideas can be easily realized.

But no matter which form of travel you choose: Varied experiences with a unique flair are guaranteed on city trips.

 

Creole cuisine

PatrickJullien
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Creole cuisine

The mixture of the most diverse European, African and indigenous influences has created a unique form of culinary cultures in the Caribbean. Today, the term Creole cuisine is known not only for the various recipes and dishes from the Caribbean region, but also for the most famous dishes from Louisiana in the United States. A look at the Creole cuisine is always worthwhile – the culinary treasures are hidden here in abundance.

Creole cuisine – where does it come from?

Actually, Creole cuisine only re-enacts the history of the Caribbean islands . This form of culinary development is mainly due to the influence of the many immigrants and former slaves who were brought to the Caribbean and the neighboring areas under the European colonial powers . In addition, the origin can of course also be found in the fact that many people in this region were very poor for a long time and therefore had to know how to help themselves with creative recipes. In the meantime, Creole cuisine is no longer only widespread on the Caribbean islands – most experts associate it primarily with Louisianacuisine.

It is therefore difficult to determine an exact origin. While on the islands of the Caribbean the black African influences are particularly clear, in the USA the mixture of immigrants – especially from France – and the slaves who were already native to this area at that time has become established in the USA. Today, these two subtypes of Creole cuisine are still connected by a common spice rack and access to certain ingredients.

What makes Creole cuisine so unique?

Creole dishes live above all from a variety of special spices. In both parts – i.e. both in the Caribbean and in Louisiana – chilies, for example, almost always find their way into the dishes. In addition, spices such as cinnamon, coriander, cloves, curry and anise are particularly popular among the dishes. There are strong regional differences in the weighting of the various spices – but the range has remained the same over the years.

Typical ingredients can of course also differ from region to region. While fish and seafood of all kinds are the standard on the islands of the Caribbean, Creole cuisine has developed a bit in Louisiana and also offers chicken in many dishes. However, it is and remains the case that the former dishes of the poor still play an important role today. Shrimp, oysters, and catfish — a regional specialty in the southern U.S. — are just a few of the seaborne bases for exotic cuisine. In addition, beans of all kinds, rice and other legumes find their way into the various dishes of Creole cuisine.

Typical dishes of Creole cuisine

Creole cuisine, curry
A Caribbean curry, Image: Re Metau / shutterstock

If you want to try something from this very special cuisine for yourself, you will find what you are looking for, especially in Louisiana. Here, a unique culture for soul cuisine has developed around New Orleans , i.e. Creole cuisine and Cajun cuisine. Many restaurants offer dishes from earlier times in traditional or modern variants. The two stews Jambalaya and Gumbo are good dishes to start with. They are usually not served too spicy and offer a varied and rich portion of the most diverse ingredients and spices for which Creole cuisine is known throughout the world.

More courageous is the one who dares to try the various crab and lobster dishes, for example. Here you should check beforehand how it is with your own sense of spiciness – especially in the Caribbean, the chili is very popular in every meal.

In addition, the Creole cuisine of the Caribbean and Louisiana offers an interesting change and is a good example of the former cuisine of slaves and immigrants that has made it into modern times.

Bangkok – an exciting metropolis between tradition and modernity

PatrickJullien
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Bangkok – an exciting metropolis between tradition and modernity

Bangkok – Thailand’s vibrant metropolis is a mega-city between tradition and modernity. There are merchants selling all kinds of goods on the street, tuk tuks and elephants, as well as lots of gold. A unique mix in a breathtaking metropolis. Therefore, it is no coincidence that films such as The Beach, James Bond or The Hangover are set here.

All sights are within easy reach

Bangkok skyline from above
Bangkok from above, Image: Travel mania / shutterstock

Bangkok is the capital of Thailand with around 10 million inhabitants. Nobody knows exactly. Because even the authorities do not know exactly how many people live in the mega-city. The city is pure adventure. In addition, an exciting nightlife and the great beaches are not far away. Bangkok makes it pleasantly easy for tourists to discover the city. There is Suvurnabhumi Airport International Airport and Don Mueang Airport for domestic flights. Suvurabhumi Airport is connected to the city by a rail connection – the Bangkok Airport Link (SARL). Public transport is also very good and modern. There is a Skytrain (BTS) and a Metro (MRT). Tourists can reach all the important sights easily and comfortably. Tickets can be purchased from vending machines in English. Bangkok is a modern and cosmopolitan city and the Thais are very polite people.

Best time to visit Bangkok is from December to February

Thailand’s capital Bangkok is one of the most fascinating metropolises in the world and a very popular travel destination. Every year, millions of tourists from all over the world come to the city. Bangkok is characterized by a tropical climate. This ensures hot temperatures and high humidity. The best time to travel is from December to February. Because at this time there is hardly any rain and the temperatures are not quite as hot. At night, these are around a pleasant 20 degrees. The rainy season begins in May. This will then end again in November. However, it does not rain all day. Rather, there are short rain showers during this time, often in the afternoon and evening. In the rainy season it is very humid due to the very high humidity. On average, the temperatures in Bangkok are over 30 degrees during the day and around 20 degrees at night all year round.

Lots of exotic sights

Bangkok Food Stand
A typical food stall in Bangkok, Image: David Kucera / shutterstock

Bangkok is rich in many exotic sights. Whether it’s ancient temples, palaces, fascinating waterways, relaxing parks or interesting markets and exciting nightlife, Bangkok has something for everyone. A ride through the khlongs is something very special. On so-called longboats, they go through the city’s water canals. Here is the original Bangkok. The tour leads past small huts on the shore and in the background you can see the huge skyscrapers of modern Bangkok. A trip to the famous floating markets in Damnoen is also highly recommended.

A visit to the Royal Palace is simply a must on a visit to Bangkok. The king in Thailand is very revered, and so every Thai comes here at least once in his life. The palace complex is a real feast for the eyes. Exotic figures and decorated temples everywhere. Inside, you can marvel at the very impressive golden chedis, statues and the Chapel of the Emerald Buddha. Not far from the Royal Palace is the temple Wat Pho with the famous reclining Buddha. The huge statue is a proud 45 meters long. There is also a beautiful garden and great chedis and prangs to discover. If you need a break after so much splendor and splendour, Lumphini Park is the right place for you. Bangkok’s green oasis is pure relaxation: it’s a great place to walk or enjoy a pedal boat ride on the lake.

Bangkok from above, backpacker’s paradise, markets and wild nightlife

Bangkok has a stunning skyline. Therefore, it is worthwhile to experience them from one of the numerous sky bars. An unforgettable sight! No less interesting is Khao San Road. The mecca of backpackers attracts people from all over the world.

The film The Beach with Leonardo Dicaprio is also likely to have played its part in this. There are countless cheap accommodations, bars, clubs, food stalls, stalls and also fried scorpions or various other insects. A very special experience is a visit to the Chatuchak Market. This is one of the largest weekend markets in the world with more than 10,000 stalls. There is nothing here that does not exist. Bangkok is also famous for its unique nightlife. This is extremely diverse and leaves nothing to be desired. There are countless bars, clubs and pubs everywhere. Like Sukhumvit Road, for example. Life rages here in the evenings. And under no circumstances should street food be missing from a visit to Bangkok. Everywhere in the city there are numerous stalls and food stalls that offer everything – delicious. In addition, the city is the starting point for a visit to one of Thailand’s numerous beautiful islands.

Cape Town – Vibrant city and lots of nature

PatrickJullien
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Cape Town – Vibrant city and lots of nature

From Table Mountain, tourists can enjoy the best views of Cape Town. A unique backdrop, exciting wildlife and a mix of different cultures characterize the city.

Vibrant city and lots of nature
After landing, on the way from the airport to the city, Table Mountain appears for the first time. It is a highlight, a trademark of Cape Town. The city is at his feet and he dominates the cityscape. On some days clearly recognizable, on some days wrapped in a blanket of clouds, which push over the plateau from the sea side due to the humid air masses. Definitely worth a visit every day.

The sun is shining over Cape Town
While Europe is saying goodbye to summer and preparing for the cold days, summer is only just beginning in South Africa . The southwestern tip of Africa shines in the spring sun and October is the best time to travel to Cape Town. There is a lot to discover in the African-European city with an Asian touch. It is the diversity of the city that attracts tourists from all countries to Cape Town every year: untouched nature, the vibrant city, breathtaking beaches and coastlines, modern, trendy restaurants and the famous Table Mountain. Those who like hiking can climb the mountain on foot, everyone else can easily reach it by cable car. A particular highlight are the many dassies, the rock hyraxes, that can be found on the mountain. Somehow, the animals are reminiscent of marmots, but are related to elephants.

The climate in Cape Town

Cape Town has stable temperatures. In the summer months of November to March, daytime temperatures range from 24 to 27 degrees Celsius. At night, temperatures will drop to around 14 degrees Celsius. Even in winter, temperatures reach a pleasant 16 to 18 degrees Celsius during the day, and only during the night hours can the temperature drop to a cool five to seven degrees Celsius. The winter months also see the majority of the annual rainfall.

South Africa’s eventful history

South Africa, Cape Town
View of Cape Town, Image: michaeljung / shutterstock

The diversity of Cape Town is not only reflected in the landscape, but also in the population. The city is characterized by a mix of different cultures, from Africa as well as from Asia and Europe. If you walk through the city with a tourist guide, you can see what unites the people. The consequences of apartheid can still be felt in some places today, but at the same time people are amazed at achievements, such as the new cultural centre. One thing is clearly noticeable everywhere: great importance is attached to respect in living together within the population and in living together with visitors.

Excursions in the surrounding area are worthwhile
Cape Town has a number of sights to offer. These include the botanical garden, the V&A Waterfront with the shopping temples, Kirstenbosch and the wineries in the Constantia district. Nevertheless, a trip out of Cape Town is worthwhile. No one should miss the Cape of Good Hope and there is a lot to discover in the animal world along the way. Baboons can be seen in many places, seals can be admired on a boat trip in Hout Bay and penguins can be met in Simon’s Town. If you drive an hour and a half from Cape Town to Hermanus, you will experience whales up close. By the way, Hermanus is the only city in the world where an official whale crier lives. His job is to keep an eye out for whales all day long and blow the horn vigorously when sighted.

Culinary diversity

Cape Town at night
Cape Town at night, Image: Maurizio De Mattei / shutterstock

The diversity of the city is also noticeable in the cuisine. Food is available in all flavors and price ranges. If you want to experience African folklore, visit the Gold Restaurant and for those who want to dine particularly classy, Camissa Brasserie in the Hotel Table Bay on the Waterfront is the perfect address. How about cooking for yourself? In the Bo-Kaap district, the Malaysian quarter, a fun-loving cook offers cooking classes for tourists at her home. South Africans love barbecuing. Not only privately, but also in the hotels or on the campsite, the grilling of pork or beef as well as pieces of mutton or lamb is downright celebrated. Other culinary highlights are fish dishes of all kinds and exotic fruit and vegetable dishes.

Music in the air and nostalgia in stone – Salzburg impressions

PatrickJullien
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Music in the air and nostalgia in stone – Salzburg impressions

Mighty churches, magnificent palaces, picturesque alleys, domes, fountains and arcades – Salzburg is a total work of art in Austria. Alexander von Humboldt wrote around 1800 on his trip around the world: “I consider the regions of Salzburg, Naples and Constantinople to be the most beautiful on earth.” The city, which has just 148,000 inhabitants, recommends itself as the world capital of music. But that’s not all: Salzburg has a decidedly theatrical effect and is called the “stage of the world”. Beauty, play and art come together here. The atmosphere resembles a beautiful play. The white gold of the Middle Ages has made Salzburg rich. Today, countless treasures magically attract visitors.

Salzburg – A city tour that enchants

Salzburg, Salzburg Cathedral
Salzburg Cathedral, Image: saiko3p / shutterstock

The city is beautifully situated on both sides of the Salzach. The Hohensalzburg towers picturesquely above the city. The Salzburg flair enchants from the very beginning.
Between the Mönchsberg, the left bank of the Salzach and the Festungsberg, the old town presents itself with medieval narrow streets, arcaded courtyards and tall, narrow houses.

The bourgeois part of the city seems rather romantic, while the ecclesiastical-princely part between the Neutor and the Neugebäude inspires with magnificent buildings on wide squares. The centre of the old town is the wide Residenzplatz, the former centre of archiepiscopal power. It is adorned by one of the most beautiful and largest baroque fountains on this side of the Alps. The residence, first mentioned around 1120, houses 180 rooms and halls, including 15 state rooms. A visit is worthwhile. Afterwards, the coachmen are already waiting and invite you to a comfortable city tour. Soon you reach the cathedral square. Salzburg Cathedral impresses with its mighty, 79-metre-high dome and magnificent façade. Not far from the cathedral is one of the oldest cemeteries in the world. The tour continues to the Mönchsberg with additional exhibition rooms of the Museum der Moderne. Passing stately churches, you reach the festival district, the Bürgerspitalplatz, many museums, the Getreidegasse with its medieval skyscrapers and, last but not least, the sites of Mozart.

Mozart, Baroque and more

The Getreidegasse has something enchanting, even if it is filled with crowds of people, especially in summer. At night, when the backdrops are illuminated, it is one of the most photographed streets in the world. The oldest walls in the alley bear the number 21 and date from 1258. In 1756, the child prodigy Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart saw the light of day at Getreidegasse 9. The façade, portal and courtyard still look like they did in his time. In 1773, the Mozarts moved to the other bank of the Salzach and moved into the house at Marktplatz 8. The market square, which rises slightly to the south, was laid out at the end of the 13th century and is now a wonderful place to linger.

The St. Sebastian Cemetery is Salzburg’s Campo Santo. At the picturesque cemetery, historical Salzburg personalities lie underground – Mozart’s father Leopold and Mozart’s wife Constanze as well as Genoveva von Weber. The monastery district of St. Peter leads its visitors into the realm of the monks. In the shadow of a steep rock face are the family graves of respected Salzburg clans and catacombs carved into the rock.

Far away from melancholy, Hellbrunn Palace, the pleasure palace in the south of Salzburg and Mirabell Palace as a place for love beckon. The Mirabelle Garden impresses with terraces, fountains and marble statues. On the other hand, Hellbrunn Palace offers a delightful park, which was built at the height of ecclesiastical power in 1613-1619.

Active in Salzburg

A trip to the Gastein Valley or a mountain hike to the Kapuzinerberg promises pure enjoyment. Meditative play a role in the ascent: you look back at the soft image of the city and look at the magnificent mountain scenery. Salzburg is surrounded by mountains, but not oppressed. On the way back, it is worth taking a look at the villa of the poet Stefan Zweig. Thomas Mann, Maurice Ravel and George Wells once stayed here. The encounter with old Austrian coffee house tradition is a must in Salzburg. In the “Café Tomaselli”, Mozart once read the only newspaper that existed at the time and drank a hot chocolate with it.

On the other bank of the Salzach, the “Café Bazar” inspires in a cosy place with a pretty river terrace. Not far away, the Viennese Gürtler family invites you to their famous Sacher coffee house. Hardly anyone can resist the fragrant temptations. Where aircraft fans’ hearts beat faster, you will find the Aircraft Museum with highly sought-after aviation treasures. The runway at runway 16 exerts a magnetic attraction and causes enthusiasm in winter. Hangar-7 is also a place of art with constantly changing events. A trip to the Ice Caves of Werfen is also worthwhile. In the largest ice cave on our planet, the rule is: Dress warmly, even in midsummer.

Tip: In the “Carpe Diem” restaurant, guests enjoy finger food at its finest.
Wheat gold with a twist, on the other hand, is available in Salzburg’s breweries on Rupertgasse.
Salzburg is wonderful and always worth a visit. The graceful city wonder is charming and dreamy. The “Everyman’s City” is a place for true connoisseurs and strollers.

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