All about travel

Thailand – the timeless courtesy in a magical country

Thailand

PatrickJullien

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10. August 2018

Thailand – the timeless courtesy in a magical country

In Thailand, past and present mix to create an interesting and fascinating cocktail for holidaymakers. This region in Southeast Asia has retained a mysterious charm, and many a long-distance traveler who has often landed at the airport of the lively metropolis of Bangkok believes that the smiling politeness of the people in the realm of his majesty will probably survive all time. Here, the guest is what he likes to be most in all countries: king! Thailand has many faces. Exotic beaches ideal for lounging or dreaming. The hidden monasteries in the mountains of Chiang Mai, islands full of melancholy in the Indian Ocean and the South China Sea and the deep green of the jungle.

Thailand Sea and Beach — Image: Iakov Kalinin / shutterstock

And in many regions of Thailand, the rainforest begins on the doorstep of the hotel or resort. The palm trees sway in a gentle breeze on the beaches, orchids bloom in the well-kept gardens, and bananas grow on the mighty perennials with their large leaves. Khao Yai National Park is an almost magical place with one of the most extensive rainforest areas on the Asian continent. The Khao Khiau towers over the undulating green landscape with its 1350 meters, and if you move through the jungle on the narrow paths accompanied by experienced rangers, you will meet leopards, tigers, wild dogs, civets and, of course, many monkeys and birds.

Khao Yai is just one of a total of 95 national parks and protected areas in Thailand. In Khao Sok, on the highway from Phuket to Surat Thani, the largest flower in the world, the Rafflesia, grows between limestone cliffs with a flower diameter of almost one meter. On the border with Malaysia stretches a marine national park: Ko Tarutao. These are exactly 51 almost exclusively uninhabited islands – one more beautiful than the other. They line up like pearls on a string in the Andaman Sea and are home to the sea nomads who leave their houses on stilts all their lives only to fish on the sea.

View of Bangkok, Image: Drone Thailand / shutterstock

If you are in Bangkok for a few days and have gradually gotten used to the traffic on the streets, you should definitely go to the National Museum. It is the largest in Southeast Asia and is housed in a palace of the former viceroy. A visit is like a journey through the history of Thailand.

There’s no question about it: Bangkok is a juggernaut and yet this city is a fascinating experience for most visitors. With the “Floating Gardens”, the golden pagodas and an impressive residence of the king. The statues of the Buddha are just as much a part of the image of this beautiful country as the monks in their saffron-yellow cloaks. The people of Thailand draw strength from the encounter with the images of Gautama. Spirituality and religiosity shape everyone’s lives.

Thailand is the traditional “land of the free” and it is about the size of France with a 2,500-kilometer stretch of coastline. It is an Eldorado for water sports enthusiasts and a highlight of international tourism. Guests are welcomed by their hosts with folded hands in front of their faces, and those who know the customs there should refrain from shaking hands and leave it at a slight bow. And one thing should definitely be taken to heart: The head is considered the seat of the soul and must never be touched.

Travel information Thailand

Capital	Bangkok
Form of government	Hereditary Monarchy Military government (under constitutional monarchy)
Currency	Baht (THB)
Area	approx. 513,115 km²
Population	approx. 67,959,359 (2015)
Languages	Thai
Electricity grid	220 volts, 50 Hz
Area code	+66
Time zone	UTC+7

South Africa – a young state and the kick of the wilderness

South Africa

PatrickJullien

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10. August 2018

0

South Africa – a young state and the kick of the wilderness

The connoisseurs among the long-distance travelers argue about where the most beautiful end of the world can be found for them. But quite a few are of the opinion that this can only be Cape Town . Because a look at the globe reveals: South of Cape Town there is only the infinity of the oceans. And at some point, the region of Antarctica’s eternal ice begins. South Africa is a young country that celebrated the end of apartheid shortly after the fall of the Berlin Wall in Germany. Much has changed between Johannesburg and Cape Town since then, even if the heirs of Nelson Mandela could not and did not always want to budget with their new freedom. But South Africa has nevertheless developed into a longing destination for many holidaymakers from Europe and America over the past twenty-five years.

With a bit of luck, you can experience the “Big Five” in the great outdoors on a safari, Image: Carcharadon / shutterstock

Rainforests and savannahs, the mighty Drakensberg Mountains, the picturesque lagoons on the coasts of the Atlantic and Indian Oceans, dust-dry deserts and the vineyards of Stellenbosch and Paarl. The south of Africa is full of wonders, and if you enjoy the 360 Grand Panorama at the setting sun on Blouberg Beach and see the silhouette of the nearby Table Mountain, you have no doubt that this is indeed something like the most beautiful end of the world. Although the country is not governed from Cape Town – that is reserved for Pretoria – it is from here, at the Cape of Good Hope, that the influence of the Europeans on this region began.

South Africa, Table Mountain — Table Mountain at sunset, Image: Kanuman / shutterstock

In the beginning there was a supply station for sailors and a chamber of commerce of the Dutch at the Cape. That was in April 1652, when a certain Jan van Riebeeck landed on the stormy coast and encouraged the local population to exchange trade goods. But this very soon developed into the subjugation of the people of the Khoikhoi tribe. This servitude did not end until 1990, when Nelson Mandela was released from a long prison sentence on Robben Island and a process of reconciliation with the white population began. The gap between black and white and thus between rich and poor has remained, but the hope for a multicultural country and a farewell to racist prejudices has remained. Behind Table Mountain stretches the friendly South African wine country. The vines that are harvested here have helped the region to achieve a certain prosperity. Also because the wine produced is one of the best in the world. Stellenbosch, Paarl and Franschoek are located on the edge of the Little Karoo semi-desert, picturesquely and protected by high and karstic mountains.

The Garden Route is the highlight of southern South Africa. Between Mossel Bay and Port Elizabeth, the rainbow nation shows its most beautiful side with romantic bays and the deep forests of the Tsitsikamma National Park, where daredevils get their special kick at the highest bungee jumping in the world.

If you want to look around in the wilderness, you have the choice between various national parks in South Africa. The largest of them is the “Kruger“, where there are numerous lodges with all comforts and where the safaris are of special quality. However, the search for the so-called “Big Five” often ends with the realization that zebras and giraffes are also photogenic. So it doesn’t always have to be the “Lion King” on a round trip through South Africa that makes a safari so appealing.

Travel information South Africa

Capital	Executive: Pretoria Legislative: Cape Town Judiciary: Bloemfontein
Form of government	Federal Republic Parliament-bound executive power
Currency	Rand (ZAR)
Area	approx. 1,221,037 km²
Population	approx. 56,521,900 (2017)
Languages	Afrikaans, English
Electricity grid	220-230 volts, 50 Hz
Area code	+27
Time zone	UTC+2 UTC+1 (March to October)

A cappuccino in Milan

Europe
Italy

PatrickJullien

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9. August 2018

0

Italy is famous and popular for its specialty coffees. Whether latte macchiato, cappuccino, espresso or caffè americano – these drinks are a treat in a small Italian coffee bar.

On his morning commute to work, the Italian does not miss the opportunity to enjoy his favorite cappuccino standing in the café on the corner, often parked in the no-parking zone. Holidaymakers prefer to take a seat on one of the comfortable bistro chairs. They prefer to enjoy a cappuccino sitting while eating a delicious almond tart at the same time.

Delicious cappuccinos in a cozy café in Milan

In the heart of Brera, Milan’s famous bohemian district, many a charming bakery tempts you with exquisite coffee specialties and delicious pastries. In this fascinating district, bakers and pastry chefs spoil their guests with a variety of delicacies. Many of the coffee houses there, for example in Via Madonnina, welcome their visitors early in the morning.

The passion of the coffee house operators for the black-brown hot drink and for baking creates incomparable pleasures. They are a wonderful part of a trip to Milan for any guest. The successful combination of a delicious cappuccino with sweet biscuits or a piece of cream cake is a delicious start to a Milanese morning.

How to drink the cappuccino in Milan

There are actually a variety of ways to drink a cappuccino properly. Some coffee lovers swear by first slowly removing the foam with a small spoon and enjoying it beforehand. Others prefer to stir the hot drink and the head until the foam has completely dissolved in the coffee. As a third option, some connoisseurs drink the cappuccino first. They then slowly spoon the foam out of the almost empty cup.

During one of our visits, we asked locals how they prefer to enjoy their cappuccino.

Giuseppe A., 31: “For me, the right way to drink a cappuccino is to just drink it. Basta! Do not stir, do not touch the foam, do not add sugar. This is how most coffee lovers drink their cappuccino. I do it this way, my friends do it this way and so does my family. But anyway: Drink your cappuccino as you want. It’s just important that you don’t wait too long. Italian coffee, whether espresso or cappuccino, should be served hot and drunk at the perfect drinking temperature.”

Switzerland – Boundless Freedom and the Summit of Harmony

Switzerland

PatrickJullien

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9. August 2018

0

Switzerland – Boundless Freedom and the Summit of Harmony

If you want to feel the boundless freedom and experience it with all your feelings, you should travel to Switzerland. With the Confederates, you don’t necessarily have to be a summiteer to get closer to the Almighty, because even in the green valleys of this unique country, the visitor experiences the summit of harmony. The landscapes of the Alpine republic are undoubtedly balm for the soul and the people who live here are as self-confident as they are hospitable. If you stand on a blooming alpine meadow at the Riffelsee on a balmy spring day and look at the panorama of the nearby Matterhorn, you will get an impression of the extent to which Swiss nature beguiles all the senses.

The Swiss national anthem begins with the words “Rufst du, mein Vaterland…” This “fatherland” has many faces and has four language groups: German, French, Italian and Romansh. The majority of the country’s inhabitants speak German, and they jokingly call the language border with France “Röstigraben”. Holidaymakers can therefore communicate very well in Switzerland, because the somewhat more difficult Rhaeto-Romanic dialect is actually only encountered in a few places in the canton of Graubünden.

As different as the dialects and languages are, so is the landscape of Switzerland. From the lovely valleys of Heidi Land, the peaks rise to heights of exactly 4634 meters. It is the Dufourspitze in the Valais Alps, which was named after a Swiss general and cartographer. The Swiss attach importance to the fact that the summit is on their territory and not on that of neighboring Italy, which is a whole 160 meters away.

Switzerland, Lucerne — Lucerne, Image: Mariia Golovianko / shutterstock

The Swiss symbol of the happy cows on lush alpine pastures has received a few wounds in the recent past, because agriculture plays a subordinate role in this country. Rather, Switzerland is the epitome of the quality of its precise movement and the richness of its inventions. In this country, people earn well, and the exchange rate, which is not very pleasant for foreigners, makes a holiday between Basel, Zurich and Zermatt a rather expensive pleasure.

But the many facets of a varied and enjoyable stay in Switzerland compensate for the supposed hole in your wallet. The hotels in this country are among the best in the world and their service is almost proverbial. In the grand hotels of Davos as well as in the pretty resorts in the Bernese Oberland or on Lake Zurich. In Saas Fee, the glacier is very close, and the icy band of the Aletsch still exists.

View of Zurich, Image: canadastock / shutterstock

Fine wines grow on the sun-drenched slopes of Ticino, and the chefs in the land of William Tell enjoy a worldwide reputation. Anyone who has tried a “Häfelichabis” in the canton of Uri will dream of this stew made of mutton and sliced cabbage for a long time to come. And from the homely atmosphere of the hut on the mountain.

For holidaymakers who move on the passes on four wheels, Switzerland is a unique territory. The former mule tracks have long been first-class alpine roads, and an overwhelming panorama is guaranteed almost everywhere. And if you are looking for ways to culture, you will find them, for example, at the Goetheanum in Dornach or in the museums of the canton of Ticino, which sees itself as the cradle of art.

Travel information Switzerland

Capital	Bern
Form of government	Federal Republic Directory system
Currency	Swiss franc (CHF)
Area	41,285 km²
Population	approx. 8,482,150 (2017)
Languages	German, French, Italian, Romansh
Electricity grid	230 volts, 50 Hz
Area code	+41
Time zone	UTC+1 CET UTC+2 CEST (March to October)

Russia offers diversity like no other country in the world

Russia

PatrickJullien

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8. August 2018

0

Russia offers diversity like no other country in the world

No other country in the world combines so many different sights and landscapes on its territory as Russia. The country in the east offers different climate zones, different mentalities and languages as well as a diverse cuisine.

Russia is an exotic holiday destination – whether adventure tours to the North Pole into the eternal ice, excursions into the endless expanse of Siberia or boat tours on the Volga or the Yenisei. And sun worshippers and ski fans also get their money’s worth: the Black Sea beckons with sun, beach and blue water and the Caucasus invites you to winter fun. If you want to learn about the history and culture of the country, the hospitable Russians will be happy to tell you more about their homeland.

Siberia delivers impressive images, Image: Valerii_M / shutterstock

A classic tourist destination is certainly Moscow. The cultural and economic heart of the country beats in the capital of Russia. The city is very important to Russians, and so there is probably no Russian who does not visit Moscow at least once in his life. The city is growing incessantly and is constantly striving for something new. The metropolis is a melting pot for the whole country. And yet: Moscow does not stand for all of Russia.

St. Petersburg is also very popular with many tourists. The more than 300-year-old city is considered the cultural highlight of Russia. The density of museums in the city is impressive. In addition, St. Petersburg offers a very lively and exciting sub-culture. The architecture is just as inspiring – it’s not for nothing that the city is also called the Venice of the North. A very special experience are the so-called White Nights of St. Petersburg. Due to its proximity to polar rice, it is also light at night in the period from late May to mid-July. During this time, the sun does not set completely.

Russia, S. Petersburg, St. Isaac's Cathedral — St. Isaac’s Cathedral in St. Petersburg, Image: Roman Evgenev / shutterstock

But Russia has much more to offer than just the exciting metropolises of Moscow and St. Petersburg. Nature lovers will find a unique natural landscape in Siberia, the Caucasus or the Urals. Here there is still an almost completely untouched nature, impressive landscapes, a breathtaking wilderness and a diverse animal world as well as a solitude like nowhere else in the world.

If you want to be really pampered, you should go to Crimea. There are well-known health resorts here that offer guests soothing cures and a great wellness program. And of course, Crimea is also an optimal holiday destination for sun worshippers and water lovers. The Black Sea offers bathing fun and pure relaxation for the whole family. Also on the Black Sea is the well-known seaside and holiday resort of Sochi. Here, palm trees and black beaches await the visitor. It is not for nothing that Sochi is also called the Russian Riviera.

A cruise on the Volga is an experience of a special kind. In addition to an impressive river landscape, the numerous old towns on the banks also invite you to experience. The river is considered the mother of all rivers in Russia. The Volga and the surrounding country are considered the cradle of the country. Here, the Russians say, you can find the soul of Russia. The big country simply offers just the right thing for everyone. Russia is always worth a trip!

Travel information Russia

Capital	Moscow
Form of government	Federal Republic Semi-presidential system
Currency	Rouble (RUB)
Area	17,075,400 km² including Crimea: 17,102,344 km²
Population	144,526,636 (excluding Crimea) 146,877,088 (including Crimea); (As of: 2018)
Languages	Russian
Electricity grid	220 volts, 50 Hz
Area code	+7
Time zone	UTC+2 to UTC+12

Portugal – a small country with terrific diversity

Portugal

PatrickJullien

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8. August 2018

0

Portugal – a small country with terrific diversity

The extremely hospitable coastal nation in southwestern Europe leaves nothing to be desired – even though Portugal covers just a quarter of Germany’s area. An ideal destination for relaxed round trips, provided you can resist the urge to stay in place. Because it’s beautiful basically everywhere here.

Portugal, Porto — Porto, Image: artem evdokimov / shutterstock

It is not without reason that Portugal’s multifaceted nature earned the country the World Travel Award as “Europe’s most beautiful destination” in 2018. One of the most famous holiday regions is certainly the Algarve, which attracts visitors to the south coast with its beautiful beaches, enchanting bays and spectacular rock formations. With more than 850 km of Atlantic coastline, there are plenty of other ways to spend a great holiday by the sea. Up and down the country, turquoise lagoons, bizarre cliffs and long golden sandy beaches can be discovered. In the large estuaries of the Tagus and Sado rivers, countless flamingos and spoonbills adorn the panorama.

In addition to species-rich snorkeling bays and diving areas , first-class surf spots line the Portuguese coast. In Figueira da Foz, the longest waves in Europe promise endless surfing fun, giant waves provide ultimate adrenaline rushes off Nazaré. The “perfect setting” for surfers is the tube waves of Peniche.

In addition, kitesurfing, parasailing and all conceivable other saltwater sports are also on the program. Climbing routes in the cliffs, coastal hiking trails and various golf courses with a sea backdrop offer dry sports experiences on the Atlantic. Or you can seek out one of the many quiet fishing beaches far away from all the action, where you can simply relax while building sandcastles, swimming or walking.

However, if you want to be active, you don’t have to do without it domestically. The diverse landscapes allow you to do everything that outdoor sports demand. Torrents in the mountains challenge you to canyoning and rafting, while canoeing on the crystal-clear rivers is more leisurely. Climbing or paragliding is a special way to pay respect to Portugal’s mountain ranges.

Those who prefer to travel on two legs will find plenty of attractive trekking routes.

In winter, skiing is possible in the up to 2,000-metre-high mountain ranges of the rugged Serra da Estrela, but this should not keep summer lovers away from Portugal. In the south, there is veranda weather all year round, so you can always enjoy the country’s culinary delights outdoors.

The country produces fruits, vegetables, wine, cheese and olive oil in top quality. After freshly caught fish or a Mediterranean stew, a traditional custard cake always goes well with the espresso. A glass of port wine rounds off the evening.

Speaking of port wine: culture is not only on offer with the city of Porto and its picturesque alleys and historic buildings. Everywhere in the country, the most diverse eras and architectures have been immortalized, so it is not only in Lisbon and Porto that you can walk excellently in the footsteps of the past.

A trip to Portugal is no problem even with island fever. On the one hand, there is the flower island of Madeira, which, with its proximity to Africa , has mild winters, pleasantly warm summers and an incredible sea of flowers in spring to offer.
The Azores are really in the middle of the Atlantic. For a little more changeable weather, the sensational volcanic panoramas and a bath in the hot springs make up for it.

Travel information Portugal

Capital	Lisbon
Form of government	Unitary republic semi-presidential democracy
Currency	Euro (EUR)
Area	92,212 km²
Population	approx. 10,310,000 (2016 est.)
Languages	Portuguese
Electricity grid	230 volts, 50 Hz
Area code	+351
Time zone	UTC±0 UTC+1 (March to October)Azores: UTC-1 UTC±0 (March to October)

New Zealand – a destination of longing at the other end of the world

New Zealand

PatrickJullien

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8. August 2018

0

New Zealand – a destination of longing at the other end of the world

It is a country where myths and traditions mean everything to many people. It is a country where nature celebrates triumphs in all its facets and fascinates holidaymakers from all over the world. It is a country where there is much more than cows in the meadows and shy kiwis in the forests. It is the country of which Europeans say that only the moon is further away than New Zealand. A journey to the other end of the globe leads to scenic wonders, pastures, wilderness and an almost unbelievable expanse. New Zealand is a country for people who have retained a sense of the important things in life and of originality.

New Zealand, Auckland — View of Auckland, Image: Sorang / shutterstock

New Zealand is simply a destination of longing for many holidaymakers. Some shy away from the long flights, but those who go to this distant country can interrupt this journey. For example, halfway – in Singapore. And if you go on a round trip by car or motorhome, you probably choose the right form of holiday. Because these different landscapes in New Zealand make almost every visitor euphoric. It is the residence of the “Lord of the Rings” and it is the ancestral home of the Maori. Only four million people live in New Zealand – and this in a territory that is as large as Germany with its two main islands. Even Sydney Parkinson, whom the legendary navigator and explorer James Cook took with him as a painter on his first voyage, raved about the landscape at Tolaga Bay in 1769, where the “Endeavour” anchored: “The area is indescribable and beautiful. It could represent a second paradise.”

Diversity New Zealand — The diversity in New Zealand is limitless, Image: Leelakajonkij / shutterstock

For the Maori, their homeland is the “Land of the Long White Cloud”. According to tradition, the seafarer Kupe once sailed from Hawaiki, the legendary homeland of the Maori, to New Zealand – and a white cloud showed him the way. The children of the Maori celebrate the old rites in their schools. They move to the beat of the historical incantation dances of the Polynesians. Anyone who passes by such a school should not be afraid to present themselves there, because guests from another world are always welcome. For all the inhabitants of New Zealand, their homeland is a promised land, created on an extraordinary day in the story of creation. This is a country full of contrasts, with green pastures where a few million sheep graze, with the romantic beaches of the Bay of Islands, with a colourful mix of vibrant metropolises such as Auckland and Wellington, with the ski slopes of Mount Ruhapehu and with the huge glaciers on the South Island.

Manuka Honey New Zealand — A popular souvenir from New Zealand is the Manuka honey produced there, Image: studio presence / shutterstock

These two islands between Australia and Antarctica are home to friendly people and strange birds. One of them is the kakapo, a parrot that can neither fly nor talk. On the coasts, visitors will meet many albatrosses on their round trip and, with a bit of luck, the increasingly rare kiwi, New Zealand’s national bird, in the forests. While the North Island is blessed with a subtropical climate, the icy mountain giants of the South Island present themselves with a tart charm. In the north, the muddy deserts of the active volcanoes swirl near Tongariro, in the south there are penguins and sea lions on the wild coasts. New Zealand is undoubtedly a godsend for people who can’t get enough of the beauties of nature.

Travel information New Zealand

Capital	Wellington
Form of government	, parliamentary monarchy, parliamentary democracy (Westminster system)
Currency	New Zealand Dollar (NZD)
Area	269,652 km²
Population	approx. 4,793,700 (2017 est.)
Languages	English
Power supply	230 volts, 50 Hz
Calling code	+264
Time zone	UTC+12 NZST UTC+13 NZDT (October to March)

On the road in Cuba

Cuba

PatrickJullien

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8. August 2018

0

A Caribbean island state has the ability like no other to awaken particularly strong longings with pictures and anecdotes: Cuba presents itself as a unique dream destination with Caribbean dream beaches, tropical landscapes, unique mountain ranges, music and cigars.

A non-stop flight from Germany to Cuba takes less than twelve hours. The door to his Cuban adventure now opens for the traveler. At first, the capital of the Antilles island presents itself as intrusive and loud, sometimes aggressive and here and there decayed: Havana shines in the warm sunshine with its own, still morbid charm.

If you let your eyes wander over houses, street canyons and backyards after the quick first impression, you will soon discover countless beauties. Between the old town with the Castillo de la Real Fuerza, the baroque Catedral de San Cristóbal or the Plaza Vieja and the Capitol as the city’s landmark, the freshly restored Havana shines. On the one hand, travelers get an unforgettable impression of the exuberant joie de vivre of the Habaneros and, on the other hand, of the charm of Havana, as it must have affected Americans and Europeans during the first half of the 20th century.

Inhalt

Cuban joie de vivre

In the tropical nights and usually into the dawn, the Son Cubano groups make music under the open sky. In addition, people celebrate spiritedly with cocktails, rum and cigars, and so it is soon understandable why the great peace and relaxation in the capital of the eleven million country plays a rather subordinate role. On the one hand, many Cubans are proud of their national heroes such as Che Guevara, Maximo Gomez, José Marti or Antonio Maceo – on the other hand, they love their Havana. They say:
“Cuba is Havana – the rest is landscape.”

On the streets of the island

That Havana is not everything, however, visitors experience on a round trip across the Antilles island. The often pothole-strewn roads require the driver’s special attention, and it is not uncommon for bicycles, horse-drawn carriages and broken down vintage cars to block the route. Sociably grouped cows and bleating herds of sheep gather on the asphalt in some places and walkers do not even stop at the motorways.

So it’s best to forget the fast pace of life in Havana right away. The travel impressions that now appear become all the more intense: Green sugar cane fields, romantic villages and shrill billboards along the way – this is another side of Cuba.

Magical Trinidad

Cuba Trinidad — Colorful Havana, Image: Delpixel / shutterstock

If you visit the city of Trinidad, you probably get the best chance to understand Cuba. Once founded in 1514 by the Spanish conquistador Diego Velázquez de Cuéllar on the south coast as “Villa De la Santísima Trinidad”, the spirit of Bacardi and the Havana Club blows through the wealthy city. The old town of Trinidad is closed to both car and horse traffic, so you can explore the historical sights on foot at your leisure. The central point and biggest tourist attraction is the Plaza Mayor.

The colonial-style square is surrounded by all the major museums, but time seems to stand still until the evening. Only then does it come alive when the samba groups play and locals and their guests come to dance, enjoy mojito or Cuba Libre and follow impulsive conversations. Then Trinidad becomes magical.

Excursion destinations in the vicinity of Trinidad are the sugar cane valley Valle de los Ingenios and the Topes de Collantes National Park.

It is located in the Sierra de Escambra. With its location between Trinidad, Santa Clara and Santi Spiritus, it is always worth a day trip, especially since the concentrated mass tourism has not yet reached this part of Cuba. Here, the low mountain range is covered by lush, green rainforest vegetation. Babbling streams and rivers as well as enchantingly beautiful lakes make the Sierra de Escambra the ideal place to unwind. The great bathing fun, on the other hand, is on the white beaches of the Ancón peninsula.

On the beach of Ancón

Not far away is the beach of the Ancón peninsula. Visitors experience welcome bathing fun in the “big bathtub”, as the Caribbean is called by the Cubans. Under palm trees, on a white beach and calm, crystal-clear water, you quickly get the feeling of having arrived in true paradise.

The turquoise sea invites you to swim, snorkel or take boat tours into the Caribbean marine world. So Ancón flatters with harmony, calm and serenity.
It doesn’t really matter where you are: In Cuba, beautiful beaches are never far away – and neither are mountains.

The particularly exciting mountain formations can be explored in the Vinale Valley. The mountains that rise from the very fertile and flat valley look like sugar loafs. They are best explored by means of a guided ride or rented bicycle. Individual speleology should not be missing on any visit program: The local caves served as good hiding places for fleeing slaves over two centuries ago. They spent a lot of time here until they were freed.

Cuba needs time

If you want to enjoy Cuba, you should take your time. The impressions of the largest of the tropical Antilles island are colorful and full of diversity. Only the perception of towns and villages, beaches and mountains, lush greenery and, first and foremost, the friendliness, serenity and joie de vivre of the inhabitants gives visitors an impression of the true atmosphere of the island. All those who have been able to feel this once want to visit Cuba again and again.

Travel information Cuba

Capital	Havana
Form of government	Republic socialist, authoritarian one-party system
Currency	Cuban Peso (CUP) Convertible Peso (CUC)
Area	approx. 109,884 km²
Population	approx. 11,239,200 (as of 2016)
Languages	Spanish
Electricity grid	110/220 volts, 60 Hz
Area code	+53
Time zone	UTC−5 UTC−4

Canada – majestic mountains between three oceans

Canada

PatrickJullien

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8. August 2018

0

Canada – majestic mountains between three oceans

If you want to travel to Canada, you should know one thing: This country is huge, a continent in itself. It stretches from ocean to ocean and is washed by the Pacific, the Arctic Ocean and the Atlantic Ocean. If you are looking for an alternative to the population density and narrowness of Europe for your holiday, you will really enjoy Canada. In the vastness of the national parks, where the forests unfold their full splendour not only during the “Indian Summer”, at the foot of the magnificent Rocky Mountains, in the tundra on the shores of the Yukon or in the fairytale forest of the Queen Charlotte Islands.

canada, Vancouver — View of Vanvouver, Image: Hannamariah / shutterstock

For many connoisseurs of the world on the other side of the Atlantic, Canada is one of the most beautiful countries on the globe. Because of the majestic mountains, the rushing rivers, the incredibly dense forests and the deep blue lakes. But also because of the open-mindedness and hospitality of the people who found their home in this great country.

Canada comprises no less than six time zones, and if you want to get an idea of these distances, you should keep in mind that the southernmost point of the country shares latitude with Rome and the northernmost tip reaches almost to the North Pole. However, a holiday in Canada is first and foremost an encounter with nature and with the wild and rampant forests. On the St. Lawrence River, they are in flames when the first frost robs the leaves of their zest for life and the trees “bloom” in all colors.

Canada, Niagara Falls — The Niagara Falls, Image: TRphotos / shutterstock

In British Columbia, the relatively mild climate favors the growth of cedars, which can live up to a thousand years. Huge ferns can be found here – all of this bears the characteristics of a typical rainforest. In Alberta there are huge glacial lakes, and in Jasper National Park it can happen that a vacationer receives a visit from a bear during a picnic.

For many, Canada is something of a destination of longing, which leads to the fact that every day around six hundred people from all countries of the world decide to live permanently in this country. But it’s not just the force of nature that makes Canada so appealing. It is also the interesting cities that attract many. In Toronto , connoisseurs of unusual architecture get their money’s worth, as do those who find their fulfillment in shopping on a trip. In Toronto, the CN Tower is the tallest television tower in the world at 553 meters. And the Royal Ontario Museum, from the think tank of the ingenious architect Daniel Libeskind, is worth a visit just because of its external appearance.

Montreal is the French enclave in the New World – and you can feel that at the latest when you enter one of the city’s four thousand or so restaurants. Here, in this metropolis of 1.6 million people with its neo-Victorian buildings, international star chefs direct the temples of gourmets. If you travel to distant Vancouver, in the southwest of British Columbia, you will be particularly impressed by the landscape there. It is a city with interesting parks and a magnificent environment

There’s no question about it: Canada is a real dream – suitable for a city trip or for an extended tour in a motorhome or rental car. A country that is aware of its great freedom.

Travel information Canada

Capital	Ottawa
Form of government	Parliamentary monarchy Parliamentary democracy (Westminster system)
Currency	Canadian Dollar (CAD)
Area	9,984,670 km²
Population	approx. 36,503,100 (as of 2017)
Languages	English, French
Electricity grid	120 volts, 60 Hz
Area code	+1
Time zone	UTC−3:30 to UTC−8

Adventure holiday cruise on the sea

All about travel

PatrickJullien

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7. August 2018

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In expanses of deep blue water, the MS Amadea glides over the sea. Couples in love are standing at the railing and in the background we see the fascinatingly beautiful stern wave that the ship leaves behind. In the evening there is a gala dinner in white uniform and evening dress. Pictures that we get to see of the Phoenix ship in its role as ZDF Traumschiff in the course of each episode. This is exactly how many people still imagine a cruise today. Quiet, contemplative and even stuffy are terms that creep in in this regard. Cruises offer much more and bring advantages that no normal package holiday allows you.

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Cruisers can use vacation time more effectively

Cruise Islands — A cruise ship off Santorini, Image: Georgios Tsichlis / shutterstock

See and experience a lot in a short time stress-free. Three criteria that no other form of holiday fulfils as perfectly as the cruise. Barcelona today, Rome the day after tomorrow and Naples a day later. By plane or coach a stressful affair in which you lose many hours of vacation. On the cruise ship, the holiday continues while the captain heads for the next destination. How you can enjoy this time on board depends on the concept of the chosen shipping company as well as the ship. Those who like it quiet and value upscale service and luxury will feel at home on the MS Europa 2, for example.

The multi-award-winning five-star plus ship is a floating luxury hotel. Things are more relaxed and colorful on AIDA’s kissing mouth ships. Here, holidaymakers will find a touch of Ballermann feeling and Ibiza holidays. On the way to new ports, passengers can be entertained by entertainers and dance the night away in the evenings at parties or in the disco on board. The successful combination of luxurious elegance and a lively fun atmosphere can be found on the ships of the Italian shipping company MSC. On the one hand, much of the décor makes passengers feel like they’re on a luxury liner: stairs with Swarovski stones, live music on a white grand piano in an elegant artrium, and evening wear on a gala night. On the other hand, there is the Italian attitude to life with music, pool parties and animation.

Cruise on American fun cruisers

America is the land of unlimited opportunities. So it is not surprising that the largest and most spectacular ships can be found with American shipping companies. If you decide to cruise with one of the so-called fun cruisers, you are opting for a trip on a floating small town with an integrated amusement park. Royal Caribbean International is particularly noteworthy. With the Symphony of the seas, RCI provides the largest cruise ship in the world. And that’s not the only superlative. In addition to an ice skating rink, gigantic slides and surf simulators, their fleet also has ships on which passengers can ride bumper cars, view the ship from the sea in a viewing sphere or try skydiving. All this at no extra cost. The attractions are included in the tour price. Other highlights include evening shows and musical productions in Broadway quality, which are also included. In addition to all the special features, you will also find opportunities for sunbathing, spa, fitness or quiet places to enjoy the sea on such spectacular ship models. In addition, almost around the clock a culinary variety that is second to none.

The cruise is as versatile as a round trip but as comfortable as a hotel complex

Cruise Luxury — On a cruise ship you can have a good time, Image: NAPA / shutterstock

With this statement, the advantages and special features of a cruise can probably be summed up appropriately. A round trip leads to a different place almost every day. However, you spend the time in between sitting cramped in a bus. In addition, in contrast to a ship trip, it is either a matter of living out of a suitcase or packing and unpacking suitcases again and again. Many shipping companies offer concepts that combine different needs. A cruise is a great experience for all family members. Despite all the entertainment, passengers should above all enjoy the special moments at sea. The pictures of the view of the sea and the stern wave described at the beginning can be experienced on all ships at any place. Understand this vastness of the sea, pause and switch off. You may encounter dolphins that accompany the ship for a while. These are the moments when travelers are gripped by cruise fever and that make the difference between a normal vacation and a cruise emotionally tangible.