How does it feel to experience something previously unknown? Travelling is not only about getting to know new cultures, but also about rediscovering yourself. A new place, a different language, a challenge – and with it the opportunity to develop further. That’s exactly what the travel short film “I AM” is about. The feeling was captured by a creative couple from Stuttgart: filmmaker and cameraman Florian Nick and author and journalist Wiebke Wetschera.
The two 26-year-olds set off on a road trip to South America in October 2019 – six months, four countries, 20,000 kilometers. At the beginning, they bought a car with a roof tent in Santiago de Chile and off they went on a wild journey. With Susi – as the two have christened their car – they drove along the famous Carretera Austral through wild Patagonia, Route 40 through Argentina and the Pan-American Highway in Peru and Chile. Kilometre after kilometre on gravel, mud and tar and when their eyes got tired, they unfolded the tent on Susi’s roof somewhere in nature. It was only exchanged for a normal tent and a backpacking backpack for multi-day hikes – such as through the Chilean Torres del Paine National Park, to the Argentine mountain Fitz Roy or to the famous Machu Picchu in Peru. Life on the road was simple: sleeping in a tent, cooking with the camping stove, all in the middle of nature. The focus was always on the experience. There was one thing they wanted at all costs: to be very close.
A range of new experiences
The couple is united by the passion of wanting to tell something with their creative work. Wiebke with words, Florian in pictures. And that’s why the two wanted to use the joint trip to work together on a project. Always in the back of their minds, they therefore had the mission to creatively capture the feeling of travel. What does a trip do with us? You plunge into something unknown and discover a whole new side of yourself. The two have also experienced this on their trip. For both of them it was the first long-term trip, the first time not having a real home, but being constantly on the move. A new experience that has left its positive mark.
Wiebke spent four weeks alone in Chile before the road trip together. Your first solo trip. This also gave rise to the idea of showing Wiebke herself as the protagonist in the film – symbolic of all those who have a new experience and change as a result. It was a positive experience for her – this is also shown by the voice-over she wrote especially for “I AM”. Florian, on the other hand, certainly devoted himself to the visual implementation. Whenever the light was right and the location was suitable, he pulled out his camera and captured the moment.
A film that is intended to give courage
When Corona came, the two travelers went back to Germany and Florian to his desk. He not only shot the film, but also edited and edited it. The result is a short film of one and a half minutes. “I AM” is intended to encourage you to plunge into the unknown – whether on your travels or in everyday life. It is intended to encourage people not to limit themselves, but to trust in themselves. Because only those who face challenges can also grow, and in the end stand there self-confidently and say: I AM.
https://vimeo.com/flonick/iam
Director / DP / Editor / Colorist – Florian Nick
Writer / Talent / Creative Concept – Wiebke Wetschera
Music / Sounddesign – Julian Lindenmann
Voice Artist – Gloriel Taylor
Rothenburg ob der Tauber, with its historic old town with its half-timbered romanticism and unique location in the Tauber Valley, is the epitome of the Middle Ages in Germany for many tourists. Guests from all over the world travel to Middle Franconia to enjoy the unique atmosphere.
Half-timbered houses with pointed gables are tightly packed next to each other, and every now and then a clock tower rises. The narrow, winding streets with the cobblestones invite you to explore. What is hidden behind this archway with the wide, double-winged door? Maybe another piece of the Middle Ages? In Rothenburg ob der Tauber you can let yourself drift – a visit to the city is almost like a journey through time. Unfortunately, you are not alone and almost feel like you are in an open-air museum at the popular spots. On long walks you pass the city wall and worthwhile museums and churches. Many nooks and crannies invite you to linger. In addition to the historical sights, Rothenburg ob der Tauber has even more to offer: namely an excellent wine culture. The area around the city is also worth a visit: hiking, cycling or just taking a leisurely walk on the historic city wall. In Rothenburg ob der Tauber you can spend a quiet holiday.
“A journey through the Tauber Valley is a walk through German history,” wrote the writer Wilhelm Heinrich Riehl in 1865.
Nothing has changed in this regard to this day. The uniform and self-contained medieval townscape towers high above the Tauber Valley. It attracts tourists as well as cultural historians and those interested in art and architectural history. Among the outstanding sights are the Gothic St. Jacob’s Church with a Riemenschneider altar, the fortification with a battlement walk and a total of 42 towers and city gates, the town hall and the castle garden. Let’s go!
Rothenburg ob der Tauber is the epitome of the German Middle Ages. The old town is completely surrounded by a city wall. You can experience the city particularly well on its historical festivals or on a themed tour.
Walking tours in Rothenburg ob der Tauber:
Experience churches
Experience museums
Experience the city wall
Experience favorite places
Children’s City Guide Rothenburg
Top 10 sights in Rothenburg ob der Tauber
The western castle gate, Image: xbrchx / shutterstock
Tourists can experience a lot in Rothenburg ob der Tauber. And that every day of the year – the city is a year-round destination and always beautiful and worth seeing. The historic town, the museums and the quaint alleys and wine taverns make a trip to Rothenburg an unforgettable experience.
With so many sights, it’s hard to choose. The best thing to do is to do what you feel like doing: strolling, museums, coffee and cake or going out for a fancy meal. Or an excursion by bike into the wonderful nature of Franconia and cycling through vineyards. There, too, you stop again and again and enjoy the wine and the delicious Franconian cuisine.
Nevertheless, these 10 sights should not be missed.
The Plönlein
Market Square and Town Hall
City Walls & Towers
Castle Garden
Medieval Crime Museum
Rothenburg Museum
Käthe Wohlfahrt’s Christmas Museum
St. James’ Church
History vault
Double Bridge & Tauber Valley
Plönlein? That sounds interesting. What do you think is behind it? And where is it located in Rothenburg ob der Tauber? The Plönlein is something like the landmark of Rothenburg. It is a good starting point for a city tour. This is not a tower or a house, but a small square with a fork in the road. Plönlein comes from “plan” and means “even”. In the past, the Fischstapelplatz was located here, but today the Plönlein is still surrounded by half-timbered houses with a view of the Kobolzellertor and the Sieberstor.
Surrounded by the nature of Franconia
Plönlein, Image: by-studio / shutterstock
In fact, Rothenburg has a lot to offer not only in the city, but also outside the historic city walls. It is located in the Frankenhöhe Nature Park above the “Lovely Tauber Valley. Picturesque valleys, small streams and the river Tauber, mountain ranges with great views over the countryside, mills and lakes stretch from here to Wertheim. They make you want to go on a discovery tour by bike or on foot.
Activities in Rothenburg ob der Tauber:
Wander
Cycling
Climb
Ballooning in Rothenburg
Golf
Swim
Shopping
A unique network of hiking trails stretches around Rothenburg. A total of 13 well-marked and well-maintained hiking trails invite you to explore the nature around the medieval town. Hiking weeks and guided hikes are also tempting – Rothenburg is also located on the Way of St. James, a pilgrimage route that leads to Spain .
Rothenburg ob der Tauber is located in the heart of southern Germany. From here you can take tours to Bavaria, Franconia and Baden-Württemberg and experience even more.
If you can separate yourself from the medieval city for a while, you will find yourself directly on famous holiday routes: The Romantic Road and the Hohenzollern Route, to name just 2. The Castle Road, for example, leads past castles and palaces. Garden fans embark on the Garden Route and experience highlights of the region: from the castle garden to the allotment garden paradise, 24 parks and gardens can be visited. These include monastery gardens, castle parks and cottage gardens.
Originally from the Netherlands , Center Parcs are also becoming increasingly popular in Germany and are primarily aimed at families with children due to their design. At Center Parcs, the individuality of a stay in a holiday home is skilfully combined with the attraction of having many attractions and offers for children right on your doorstep.
The car-free resorts usually offer several hundred holiday homes, which are spread over a large area and surrounded by unspoilt nature. The heart of every Center Parc is the so-called Market Dome, which is either centrally located in the middle of a Center Parc or near its entrance. In addition to a supermarket and other shops, the Market Dome also has restaurants and numerous offers for the whole family, such as bowling or indoor mini golf.
In addition, each Center Parc offers a very spacious fun pool with many highlights for young and old, which is known everywhere under the name Aqua Mundo and is usually also located in the Market Dome. In contrast to some other attractions, a visit to the fun pool is always included in the price of the holiday home, so that nothing stands in the way of regular bathing fun.
Spaciousness and plenty of space characterize all Center Parcs. Several small paths and roads allow guests to take long walks throughout the grounds and visit the many highlights scattered throughout the park. Because in a Center Parc, not only does the Market Dome offer variety and distraction, but children will also always find something interesting in the other parts of the parks. For example, there are usually several playgrounds spread throughout the site in every Center Parc and such popular places to visit as a petting zoo or a climbing park.
Although some facilities such as mini golf or archery are subject to a fee, it is possible to have a good time without higher additional costs than in a conventional holiday home holiday. Due to the enormous extent of most Center Parcs, however, one should not underestimate the distances to be covered within the park. It can take up to 20 minutes to walk from a holiday home on the edge of the complex. In order not to have to walk, it is a good idea to take bicycles with you during a holiday at Center Parc. If this is too time-consuming for you, you can also rent bicycles on site at realistic prices. Furthermore, golf carts are also offered, with which you can move freely in the park, but which are quite expensive. For all those who want to avoid long distances from the outset, it is recommended to choose your desired house when booking for an extra charge based on the respective park plan available on the Internet. However, for all those who decide to be active on holiday and look forward to regular walks, there is a shopping trolley available in each holiday home, with which you can transport your swimming gear to Aqua Mundo, for example. On arrival and departure, it is of course possible to drive directly to the holiday home by car. During the stay, the car can be parked free of charge in a parking space directly at the entrance.
Comfort and convenience are the focus of all holiday homes
The endeavour to make tailor-made offers for a relaxing holiday to as many families as possible is reflected, among other things, in the existing holiday home types. Because in all parks, interested families can choose from different types of holiday homes. On the one hand, this refers to the size and number of bedrooms, but also to the desired comfort. Houses are available to guests that can accommodate up to 20 people.
Most holiday homes with enough space for 4 to 6 people are offered and there are always at least two bedrooms available. In order to be able to spend exactly the holidays that a family wants, it is possible to choose whether a normally equipped comfort holiday home is enough for you or whether you prefer the premium version or even the VIP version. The Comfort cottages at Center Parcs all have a terrace, a flat-screen TV and a fireplace. A well-equipped kitchen is also part of the equipment. The premium holiday homes, on the other hand, are characterised by the fact that the beds are already made on arrival and one of the bedrooms is equipped with an additional TV. In the VIP holiday homes, a towel package is also available and the delivery of fresh bread rolls to the door of your holiday home is just as included as a faster internet connection than in the other house types. Final cleaning is included in the total price for all types of holiday homes.
In some resorts, in addition to the three holiday homes described, there are also exclusive holiday homes, which are characterised by even more luxury than the VIP holiday homes. Individual Center Parcs also have various themed holiday homes or tree houses and houseboats.
The Market Dome – the center of every Center Parcs
In the so-called Market Dome, guests of a Center Parc will find everything they need. As a rule, a well-stocked supermarket is available, which also offers fresh rolls. To ensure that the children don’t miss out, there is of course also a toy shop where you can find everything that makes the little ones’ hearts beat faster. In addition to several shops, the Market Dome also has numerous restaurants and snack bars that cater to all culinary needs. Whether Italian cuisine is preferred or freshly made burgers are the favorite, there is always a wide gastronomic choice at the Market Dome.
The pleasant ordering service, which is available in most Center Parcs and delivers part of the food offered in the Market Dome directly to the holiday homes, is also very well thought out. The Market Dome is also home to numerous attractions such as bowling, indoor mini-golf and a playground. However, the offer may vary from park to park. The diverse experiences in the Center Parcs are rounded off by numerous workshops for children and performances by the mascot Orry, who can be found regularly with his friends in the Market Dome.
Aqua Mundo – bathing fun for the whole family
One of the main reasons for many families to spend their holidays in a Center Parc is the free Aqua Mundo bathing world, which is available in every Center Parc.
Even if the individual fun pools differ somewhat from each other, you can be sure that an Aqua Mundo swimming pool always meets the highest standards and offers many attractions and highlights. For example, there are various slides and in some parks there are even white water rides. Pools with waves and heated outdoor pools are just as much a matter of course as toddler areas and whirlpools. The high service quality of the Aqua Mundo indoor pools is also evident in the life jackets for toddlers available there.
Holidays in scenic places – Center Parcs
There are now 6 Center Parcs in Germany , all of which are located in beautiful landscapes and offer their guests a wonderful nature experience. In addition, there are 4 Center Parcs in Belgium and 6 in France on the European mainland, as well as 9 Center Parcs in the Netherlands, the home of this type of holiday. There are also some Center Parcs in Great Britain, but they are only marketed regionally. Of the German Center Parcs, the Center Parc Eifel in Gunderath is the longest existing park, as it was opened in 1979. The newest park is the Center Parc Allgäu in Leutkirch, which has been welcoming guests since 2018. The other German Center Parcs are located at Bostalsee in Saarland, in Bispingen in the Lüneburg Heath, in Medebach in Hochsauerland and in Tossens on the North Sea coast of Lower Saxony.
The Center Parcs Allgäu and Bispinger Heide – pure action without restrictions
Of the Center Parcs located in Germany, the parks in the Allgäu and Bispingen are particularly known for their very extensive offerings. Both parks have very spacious Aqua Mundos with many highlights that are often not available in other Center Parcs. Due to the number of possible activities, these two Center Parcs are also very popular and often fully booked.
Bostalsee and Hochsauerland
Very nice Center Parcs, which present themselves very modern and fresh, can be found at Bostalsee in Saarland and in Medebach in Hochsauerland. The Center Parc Bostalsee cuts a fine figure all year round, but is especially recommended in summer, as you can swim and swim to your heart’s content in the beautiful Bostalsee. The Center Parc Hochsauerland, on the other hand, is an insider tip, especially in winter, as well-known winter sports resorts such as Willingen and Winterberg can be found nearby. In summer, the park is characterized by the spectacular Aventura playground, which is located on the slope and houses the longest playground equipment in Europe, among many other attractions.
A successful family holiday that benefits all members of the family – Center Parcs
Since the Center Parcs are designed in such a way that everyone can do something they enjoy, they are very suitable for a varied and unforgettable family holiday. The numerous offers of Center Parcs are very well thought out and tailored to families, which also applies to the holiday homes and their furnishings and equipment. Due to the fact that you have the freedom to choose which services and facilities you want to use during a holiday at Center Parc, families with a wide variety of ideas will be happy at Center Parcs.
Goslar, the small town in Lower Saxony on the edge of the North Harz Mountains, is one of the most famous places in the Harz region and is known and very popular as a destination not only for day trips, weekend trips, but also for long-term vacationers. The city with its 18 districts has about 50,000 inhabitants.
To the northwest, the town borders on the foothills of the Harz Mountains with the Rammelsberg (mine), and to the extreme south on the Salzgitter mountain range. In the west it is the Steinberg, and in the east runs the border with Saxony-Anhalt. To the northeast, the Harly Mountain borders the city of Goslar.
The name “mountain” is flattering, because the height is only about 256 meters, but this hill is overgrown with a fabulous mixed forest that is worth seeing. The numerous, well-stocked trees are home to birdlife. Ideal for hikes between 1 and 4 hours.
King Henry I merged several villages around the year 920, which was already important as a settlement over 1000 years ago. The basis for the prosperity of the city in 968 was the nearby, productive Rammelsberg silver mine in the northwest of the foothills of the Harz Mountains.
Numerous imperial diets of the early German kings were held in Goslar, which made the city widely known. In this context, many churches, chapels and monasteries were built.
Museums in Goslar
View of the Rammelsberg mine, Image: Takashi Images / shutterstock
In this phase of the High Middle Ages, a total of 47 churches, chapels and monasteries were built. Some of these buildings are still present today and can be visited.
Rammelsberg Museum and Visitor Mine (UNESCO World Heritage Site)
Pewter Figurine Museum
Handicrafts in the Grand Holy Cross
Zwinger Goslar: Museum of the Late Middle Ages
Goslar Museum
Mönchehaus Museum
Gallery Stoetzel-Tiedt
Churches in Goslar
Stave church
Market Church of St. Cosmas and Damian
Neuwerkkirche Goslar
St. James’ Church
Goslar Cathedral (Dömchen)
St. James the Elder
Buildings
Imperial Palace in Goslar, Image: S-F / shutterstock
The historic old town of Goslar is almost completely preserved, characterized by numerous half-timbered buildings, which are also part of the World Heritage Site. You will find countless buildings shrouded in the breath of history, such as:
The Wide Gate
Kennel
Imperial palace
Cathedral Vestibule
Market Church of St. Cosmas and Damian
After Goslar had been elevated to a free imperial city and a member of the Hanseatic League in the late Middle Ages, it became necessary to protect the city with fortress-like defensive fortifications. Impressive remnants of it have defied the ravages of centuries to this day and can still be admired.
Sights of the city of Goslar
The historic market square of Goslar is surrounded by numerous shops that invite you to stroll and shop. Pretty cafés and restaurants entice you to linger. The carillon accompanied by figures is not to be missed.
You should not leave Goslar without visiting the Rammelsberg Mining Museum. On the site of the former ore mine, museum, monument and former workplace mix in an impressive and unique way. A total of three museum buildings present an interplay between authentic place and historical past.
The mine’s power station, built in 1906, is the oldest building on the site. Its turbines, control centres and all the technical equipment give an idea of the enormous energy requirements that were necessary for the operation of the mine. Today, a museum of modern art is installed there in an extraordinary setting.
Forest Adventure Trail
If you have had enough of all the buildings and sights, you can go in search of the forest adventure trail. Finding it is a small adventure in itself, because the signs are overgrown. Actually, it is more of a teaching area than a path. It goes uphill and downhill, you could get lost smooth. But also suitable for children and entertaining. Seeing, touching, smelling, tasting, discovering nature.
To the south is the Nonnenberg spring. It refreshes with delicious drinking water.
Attractions in the area
The Radau Waterfall is the most suitable starting point par excellence for beautiful excursions, whether on foot or by bike. It blends harmoniously into the picture with the inn, which invites you to a first refreshment. As a starting point to the Ecker reservoir, you can take worthwhile photos here.
You have an overwhelming view of the Brocken from the Rabenklippe. The forest inn is suitable for a short rest.
From easy to moderately difficult hiking trails to difficult routes for which you need appropriate equipment and alpine experience, there are hiking tours for every requirement.
In the middle of the forest you come across the stave church. A Scandinavian-style building with impressive architecture and an interior made entirely of wood. Must visit.
These sights, sorted by popularity, are waiting to be explored
Piece
Hexentanzplatz
Barbarossa Cave
Rammelsberg Visitor Mine
Kyffhäuser Monument
Devil’s Wall
Harz National Park
Harz Narrow Gauge Railway
Iberg stalactite cave
Falkenstein Castle
Terms such as Hexentanzplatz, Teufelsmauer, in Goslar itself the secret landmark of the city, the Butterhanne, suggest numerous mystical, difficult to explain, dark powers.
In the production of butter, for example, the devil himself probably had a hand in it. Only the “Butterhanne” resisted this and thus became a folk heroine. The established restaurant Brusttuch near the market church offers the “Butterhanne” her well-deserved place, where she shows her buttocks to the devil on the neighboring Knagge.
Goslar is a very beautiful, well-kept, historic gem. Joining a city tour is definitely worthwhile.
Are you in the process of planning your next vacation? Would you like to spend your free time outdoors in nature, experience action and adventure? Then your next destination should definitely be Sweden !
Crystal clear air, vast landscapes with large lakes and enchanting colours… that describes the first impressions of Sweden. Sweden is one of the Scandinavian countries and offers beautiful fjords and national parks, numerous natural beauties and gigantic waterfalls that make your trip there worthwhile! More than half of the land area is forested and illustrates the originality of nature. Sweden surprises with diverse nature, high mountains in the north and deep forests. Particularly fascinating is the midnight sun and the northern lights, which offer an incredibly great light spectacle, which you have certainly never seen anywhere else. Equally impressive are the vastness and solitude, which bring you even closer to nature. You may also occasionally run into other nature lovers – in Sweden, people are so uncomplicated and friendly. It doesn’t always have to be palm beaches, large hotels or Mediterranean flair. Nature usually has so much more to offer, you just have to try it once. Especially in winter, there are particularly great opportunities to explore the country and its magical landscapes. In the cold months, when the snow glistens in the sun, nature appears twice as beautiful and even more lonely. Whether it’s an active holiday or a trekking adventure , there is something for everyone in Sweden.
The hut tours in winter offer an unforgettable experience: with skis or snowshoes you can ski or hike through the fantastic mountain world, over frozen rivers and lakes, while snow-capped peaks and gigantic glaciers surround you to the left and right. You move from mountain hut to mountain hut in several stages. Pure wilderness! Such peace and quiet only exists far away from civilization. Particularly romantic and unique are the Northern Lights, which can be seen above the Arctic Circle on clear nights. You experience undisturbed solitude in ice and snow, bright sunny days while hiking and driving snow at night while warming up in front of the fireplace in the hut. A sauna is also available in some mountain huts.
Winter camping
If you want it even more adventurous, you have the option of booking a tent tour . In the Arctic landscape, you are self-sufficient on tour with the winter tent. The luggage is transported in pulkas. This is a kind of sled on which luggage is pulled by animals such as reindeer and huskies or even by humans. With a stove and matching dishes, the food is prepared in the white snowy landscape and enjoyed with the bright northern lights. The tents and sleeping bags are designed for winter – so don’t worry, you’ll be well warmed. With the tent you experience independence from the outside world and everything you need is stowed in the pulkas. Who can say that they have spent the night in a tent in the middle of the mountains in the most beautiful places in Sweden?!
Husky tour
With huskies on a winter tour through Sweden, Image: Alexandre Mottet / shutterstock
As soon as the first snow falls and the water of the lakes begins to freeze, it’s time to let the huskies go! The winter tours accompanied by huskies offer you an animal experience. Has it always been your dream to be pulled by huskies or to steer the husky sled yourself? The winter tours in Sweden can make your dream come true. Huskies have a basic trust in every person, want to help pull the pulkas at all costs and are extremely cuddly. They are friendly and reliable fellows who will quickly win your heart. With snowshoes you explore the fantastic winter landscape and the cute nature boys support and accompany you. Especially uphill, they are a great help, as they actively support people with their diligence and strength.
Other wild animals such as bears and wolves also live in the mountains. But they are usually far too shy to come close to people and do not pose a threat to mutual respect. Furthermore, moose, ptarmigan, reindeer, arctic foxes and wolverines are native to Sweden. You will get to see these occasionally.
Places to Explore
River on the King’s Road in Sweden, Image: Viktorishy / shutterstock
Winter tours are particularly recommended in the north of Sweden, for example along the Kungsleden, the King’s Road. It is a world-famous long-distance hiking trail that, unlike other hiking trails, is hardly explored by people, especially in winter. During the hike you will be surrounded by wide valleys, mighty rivers, imposing mountains, lots of forest and beautiful lakes. The Kungsleden can be explored on both the south and north sides.
It is just as beautiful to hike through Vindelfjäll with the huskies. This is a Swedish and at the same time Europe’s largest nature reserve, which is located in the northwest of Swedish Lapland, more precisely in the province of Västerbotten County. Vindelfjäll is 560,000 hectares in size, which is twice the size of the Saarland. It consists of birch and spruce forests, treeless tundra, some glaciers and lakes.
In general, all regions in Sweden are suitable for hiking. The paths are also well signposted and are visited by many people from all over the world. There are also some rest areas along the hiking trails. But if you prefer it in silence, you can plan your breaks away from the official shelters and fireplaces.
The Sarek National Park is a little more adventurous. This is the largest national park in Sweden and is located in Swedish Lapland. High peaks, glacial valleys, mountain massifs and rushing rapids surround you during your winter tour. With a hiking start from Kungsleden, you can experience the world-famous Nammasj and Skierfe mountains. Crossing the delta of the Rapaädno River, you get to see the first rugged peaks of the national park. In the heart of the Sarek National Park, past narrow valleys, over frozen lakes and rivers, across plateaus, past glaciers and through narrow valleys, there is seclusion and solitude, far away from civilization.
Georgia is love for me at first, second and also at every further sight. The country in the Caucasus has made it very far into my heart. On the one hand, this is due to the hospitable locals and the delicious Georgian cuisine – but above all to the outstanding and diverse landscapes. I am particularly fond of the mountains in Georgia. They are beautiful, some of them over 5,000 meters very high and in many regions they are still very wild. In my opinion, the most beautiful way to discover the country is definitely with a tent and trekking backpack! Thus, you can discover the most impressive sides of the Caucasus on multi-day hikes and experience the nature of Georgia even more intensively.
When choosing worthwhile hiking areas, trekking enthusiasts are spoilt for choice:
Historic fortified towers and charming mountain villages in Svaneti
The Svaneti region is probably the most famous tourist trekking area in Georgia and there are good reasons for that. Numerous tours in all possible lengths and levels of difficulty await hikers here. A very beautiful and popular multi-day hike leads, for example, from Mestia to Ushguli, the highest mountain village in Europe. The road to Ushguli runs over a pass of almost 3,000 meters, past glaciers, mountain rivers and breathtaking views. On the way, you can camp in beautiful places or spend the night in cozy, family-run accommodations. A characteristic feature in Svaneti are also the historic fortified towers, which characterize the image of the small villages here and serve as an ideal photo motif. In the high-lying mountain settlements, life is very comfortable and original. Nevertheless, there is no lack of amenities – after energy-sapping (multi-day) hikes, you can enjoy a few hearty Georgian specialties with a clear conscience in one of the rustic inns, such as Khachapuri, an incredibly filling and very tasty cheese flatbread. In combination with the beautiful nature, the villages in Svaneti are therefore the perfect place for a relaxing active holiday.
A wild ride into wild Tusheti
The Abano Pass in Tusheti, Image: Marco Schätzel
In search of a portion of adventure, my second trip to Georgia ended me in the little-developed and hard-to-reach mountain region of Tusheti. The journey to Tusheti alone is an experience that everyone who has done it will remember for a long time. The trail leads over the Abano Pass, the highest passable mountain pass in the Caucasus at over 2,800 meters. The gravel road winds its way through the mountains in hundreds of serpentines. The steep slopes and views down into the valley are sure to make one or the other’s heart slip into their pants. But the long and nerve-wracking drive to Tusheti is worth it! The region is even more pristine than other hiking areas in Georgia, as it is still little developed for tourism and the journey alone deters many travelers. If you still make your way to Omalo, the largest village in the region, you will find hikes in a class of their own, such as the multi-day trekking tour over the Borbalo Pass or the beautiful day walk from Ghele to the village of Parsma. By the way, a trip to Tusheti is only possible in the summer months – the Abano Pass is snowed in for most of the year and is not passable.
Kazbegi: Climb 5000m peaks and take postcard photos
Gergeti Church, Image: Marco Schätzel
North of Tbilisi, on the way to Russia, lies another scenic pearl of Georgia – the Kazbegi region, with the Kazbek mountain of the same name. The Mt. At 5,054 meters, Kazbek is the third highest mountain in the country and eighth highest in the Caucasus! If you want to climb a 5,000-metre peak in Georgia, you can try it out here, especially since previous alpine experience is not necessarily necessary to climb the summit and the ascent should usually not take longer than three days. The city of Stepantsminda is the starting point for the ascent of Mt. Kazbek. From here, an asphalt road has recently led up to what is probably the most famous church in the country – the Gergeti Trinity Church. Picturesquely enthroned by the peaks of the Caucasus, the Holy Trinity Church is embedded in an incredibly beautiful panorama and is one of the most spectacular and popular photo motifs in Georgia.
If you don’t have enough time or strength to climb the summit, you can also hike up to the Kazbek Glacier from the Gergeti Church and will also be rewarded with fantastic views. The whole region around Kazbegi definitely offers enormous potential for hikers, both in terms of day hikes and multi-day trekking tours. Highly recommended and relatively little knowledgeable is, for example, the path from Sno to the picturesque mountain village of Juta. By the way, the way from Tbilisi to Stepantsminda, over the old military road, is paved throughout and the journey is therefore not as lengthy and adventurous as to Tusheti. Nevertheless, the drive is scenic!
The best time to hike? Now!
Just writing about Georgia makes my hiking heart beat faster and I will almost certainly be drawn back to the Caucasus pretty soon – there are many other beautiful hiking regions to discover! A good time to travel for hiking in Georgia is from May to the end of September, although trekking tours over high mountain passes are not snow-free until mid to late June. By the way, Georgia is a very interesting travel destination, especially at the moment, in times of Covid-19. The country has one of the lowest infection rates in the region and direct entry from Germany has been officially allowed for German citizens since July 8 (as of 23.08.2020).
Camping and hiking in the mountains of Georgia is probably one of the best and most beautiful ways to go on holiday relatively safely, despite the virus. But beware: the risk of infection for a lasting Georgia travel fever is of course still extremely high!
Whether it’s a short trip, a city trip or a two-week holiday in Mallorca, the right piece of luggage is important. But before you even start the journey, there are many questions about luggage. It must be neither too big, nor too small and not too heavy. If you also travel by plane, you have to comply with certain standards. In the following sections you will find important information about luggage. Furthermore, we present different types of luggage so that you too can find the right travel companion.
Trolley, suitcase or backpacker backpack – Which is best?
Basically, this question depends on your travel style. If you travel through Asia for weeks, you definitely don’t want to carry a suitcase with you. If you change hostels every other day and travel in uncomfortable trains and buses, you should definitely grab a backpacker’s backpack. Globetrotters want to see the craziest places and always have their equipment with them. A backpacker backpack offers hip fins and chest straps for the perfect fit. At the same time, they remain flexible at all times. Depending on their size, they can even be carried as hand luggage on air travel. Otherwise, you just have to check them in.
A trolley is best suited for city trips and weekend trips. If you only want to travel through Europe’s capitals for a few days, you will be happy about the suitcase with integrated wheels. Whether hard or soft shell, your luggage is always close to you. Thanks to its compact dimensions, the faithful companion can almost always be taken into the aircraft cabin. With the help of the extendable pole, a trolley can be pulled comfortably. However, it can get a bit complicated in cities with a lot of cobblestones, such as Rome. Then you have to carry the travel trolley by means of a handle.
Travel suitcases are suitable for longer holiday trips. A week or two in the Dominican Republic? No problem with the right rolling suitcase. Like trolleys, suitcases usually have two or four wheels. Despite the contents, they can be transported so easily. Especially on long distances at airports or train stations, they show all their skills. Depending on the intended use, you can choose between a smaller or larger capacity. If you travel by plane, you can often give up 20 or 23 kilograms.
How do you pack a suitcase quickly and in a space-saving way?
It should be clear that you pack a suitcase differently than a backpacker backpack. In this section, we refer to packing a classic wheeled suitcase or trolley. If you pack with a little brains, you will save yourself a lot of trouble later.
Before you start packing, you should first answer the following questions:
How long is my stay?
What is the weather like at your destination?
What clothing is suitable?
In order to make the best use of the volume of the suitcase, some clothes should be rolled tightly. T-shirts, trousers, skirts or dresses take up less space. However, be careful not to stuff the suitcase to the brim. Firstly, they could suffer damage and secondly, you often want to bring a souvenir from your holiday destination. Anyone who arrives at the airport overweight is often punished. Many airlines know no mercy and charge horrendous fees for every kilogram.
Furthermore, we recommend that you pack heavier items such as shoes and pants downwards in the suitcase. Light things such as shirts, dresses and blouses are packed at the end. If they are at the top, they will also wrinkle less. To make better use of the storage space, you can also hide socks and smaller items in shoes. Cosmetics and hygiene products must be packed securely before they are spilled. Cling film is best suited for this. If you wrap the cap tightly with foil, you won’t have any problems with leaking shampoos later.
If you want to travel with technical devices, you should carry them with you as hand luggage. There you can keep an eye on them at all times. In addition, task cases are often lost. Important documents, documents, passports and medication also belong in your hand luggage.
How do you secure your luggage?
Suitcases from renowned manufacturers usually have a security lock integrated. As a rule, these are three- or four-digit combination locks that can be individually programmed. Trolleys or smaller suitcases are usually made without a lock. Then it is worth buying an additional suitcase lock.
Wellington is located at the lowest tip of New Zealand’s North Island and, with its approximately 200,000 inhabitants, is one of the country’s metropolitan areas. Despite the relatively high population density by New Zealand standards, the capital has a lot to offer and invites you to many different sights. A visit to the Kiwi capital is definitely worthwhile – it’s not for nothing that Wellington was named the “coolest little capital in the world” in 2011.
Wellington Cable Car, Image: Robert CHG / shutterstock
If you are looking for information about Wellington, you can’t miss the famous cable car . A ride on the cute red train is simply part of a visit. The cable car transports visitors directly from the centre to the Kelburn observation deck and the main entrance of the Botanic Gardens. During the 5-minute ride, passengers can enjoy the breathtaking view of the beautiful city as well as the picturesque harbor.
Nature in and around Wellington
Just like the rest of New Zealand, the capital has a lot of nature to offer and attracts with numerous hikes and action for nature lovers. As already mentioned, there is the botanical garden to marvel at, where the typical New Zealand ferns grow and you are enchanted by the lush green. If you like it a bit more action-packed, you can let off steam in the Rimutaka Forest Park and explore the area on mountain bikes. A hike through the beautiful beech forests is also a good idea here. Here, too, there are many different plants to marvel at and a lot to discover.
Another hotspot for nature lovers in Wellington is the Makara Track, which runs directly along the wild west coast. The special feature of this beach hike is the spectacular view far into the distance. The start and end point of this trail are at Makara Beach, which is also the namesake for this hike. The paths are well paved and therefore this circular route is also well suited for families with children. You should plan about 4 hours for the hike and pack sturdy shoes.
The Wellington Walkways
There is also a lot to discover and experience directly in the city. The so-called Walkways are well-signposted walks in the middle of the city, which lead you through the city in an interesting and varied way.
These walking paths lead through the middle of Wellington’s local recreation areas and parks and you quickly forget that you are actually in the capital. Depending on which part of the city you are in, you can choose between the Northern, Southern and Eastern Walkways. All three routes have a different length and lead to a wide variety of destinations.
Northern Walkway, 16 km and 4 hours duration
This trail starts in Johnsonville and leads through many green parks (including the botanical garden) in the middle of downtown. The paths are relatively easy to walk, but there are some steeper sections. However, these are always worthwhile, as there are many impressive viewpoints along the way and you can get a good overview of the city.
Southern Walkway, 11 km and 5 hours duration
Beehive, one of New Zealand’s parliament buildings, Image: JoshuaDaniel / shutterstock
This trail starts in the harbor suburb of Oriental Bay and leads all the way up to the summit of Mount Victoria. From here you have a breathtaking view over Wellington and the rugged coast. We continue through the forest, which is also known from the movie “Lord of the Rings” and offers a beautiful backdrop. Past the Wellington Zoo , the path finally leads to Island Bay and thus back to the south coast of the island.
Eastern Walkway, 2.5 km and 2 hours duration
This slightly shorter route is great for getting a first impression of the city. In the south along the Miramar peninsula to Tarakena Bay there are some beautiful views of Wellington harbour. In addition, this route takes you to some Maori sites and can get an impression of New Zealand culture.
Away from nature – a real metropolis
Wellington, despite the charm of a small town, also has a real metropolitan feeling to offer. It is even said that Wellington has more restaurants and bars per capita than the metropolis of New York. So you can also spend some time in a wide variety of locations and enjoy delicious food and unique drinks. After all, Wellington is also the culinary capital of New Zealand.
Wellington can also keep up with other metropolises on a cultural level. Concerts and live shows take place in the city almost every day, so that visitors really have a lot to offer.
The wildlife around Wellington
Due to the location directly on the water and the rugged rocky coast, sea lions in particular feel right at home in Wellington. So if you would like to experience them in their natural environment, you can take part in one of the numerous tours and experience nature from a completely different side.
The adventurous journey can be undertaken by boat as well as by jeep.
As diverse as the city itself, so diverse are its sights. Belfast is steeped in more history than almost any other city in the north of Ireland. Numerous museums and monuments remind us of stormy times that divided an entire nation. Just as buildings, paintings and sculptures remind us of peace and tolerance. Especially in recent years, Belfast has established itself as an exciting and interesting travel destination. We have summarised here what makes the city special and which sights should not be missing on a holiday.
In March 2012, the monument to what was once the largest and probably most famous passenger ship in the world opened in Belfast. Even from the outside, the building is worth seeing, because with its shiny aluminum exterior façade, it is strongly reminiscent of the fateful iceberg that sank the Titantic in 1912. The Titanic originated in Belfast. In memory of the construction project and the dramatic event, visitors can travel through that time on a total of six floors. Exhibits, replicas and artifacts are waiting here.
St. George’s Market
St. George’s Market, Belfast, Image: Friemann / shutterstock
It is probably the oldest attraction in Belfast: St. George’s Market is popular with both travellers and locals. While the Victorian building still looks a bit inconspicuous from the outside, there is a lot of hustle and bustle inside. Fresh fruit, Irish delicacies, delicious street food and typical Irish music await. While the artists provide the right atmosphere, around 250 market stalls entice with their offers. A visit to this market is a must on a holiday in Belfast.
The Crown Liquor Saloon
Crown Liquor Saloon, Image: Min Jing / shutterstock
It is probably the most famous and oldest pub in Northern Ireland: The Crown Liquor Saloon. The first owner had the entire pub decorated with gas lamps, Corinthian columns and wood panelling by artists from Italy . The seating areas are guarded by imposing griffins and lions. In addition, there are fabrics made of brocade with lilies and feather patterns. Overall: it is probably one of the most beautiful pubs in the world, which should definitely be visited for a Guinness when visiting Belfast. Of course, the appropriate atmospheric music is also regularly available here.
Crumlin Road Goal
The Crumlin Road Goal is also one of the most popular sights in Belfast and should not be missing from the list when visiting. Insurgents, criminals, fighters for freedom and feminists. They have all been locked up in prison in the north of Ireland. During this time, even children were behind bars here. Innocent people also often died here by the gallows, although some of them were demonstrably innocent. Even today, their souls are said to haunt the old walls. During the day, visitors can visit the house on their own, and in the evening there are special horror tours in search of the restless poltergeists.
Belfast City Hall
Belfast City Hall, Image: Nahlik / shutterstock
Thanks to the reigning Queen Victoria, Belfast was recognised as a city in 1888. It was not until 20 years later that the plans for a town hall were implemented, which today separates the industrial area from the business district. With its gigantic dome and green towers, City Hall is an impressive building. Sculptures and marble adorn the interiors and halls. The gardens around the building land in summer with the large gardens to linger in. Belfast City Hall is equipped with modern lighting technology. On special occasions, the building shines in a breathtaking backdrop of light.
Ulster Museum and Grand Opera House
The Ulster Museum could be described as a mixture of art, history and naturopathy. Today, it is one of the most visited sights in the city. One million objects are waiting for visitors here. From the mummy to exciting art collections to dinosaur replicas. So you certainly won’t get bored in this museum.
On Great Victoria Street, right in the middle of the city centre, is the Irish Grand Opera House. The building dates back to 1895 and brought an oriental flair to the city at the time. In the following years, the house was renovated several times. It now offers the perfect backdrop for opera, dance, theatre, musicals and comedy.
St. Anne’s Cathedral and Botanic Gardens
Where an old church once stood until the end of the 19th century, St. Anne’s Cathedral now stands. This was built from 1899 and it took a whole 80 years until the imposing work was completed. Visitors can visit the fair here or simply admire the magnificent interior. Impressive paintings and artifacts are also at home here. As a sign of hope, the high church tower is illuminated every night, which is a nice photo opportunity for holidaymakers.
Another must-see stop for holidaymakers in the Northern Irish city is the botanical garden. Here you will find relaxation and peace. The garden is located right next to the University of Belfast and offers a welcome change from the hustle and bustle of the city on over 100,000 square metres. Tropical greenhouses, roses, orchids, a palm house and sculptures await you here. The piece of green in the green city is particularly suitable for a cosy picnic.
Das Belfast Castle
The magnificent Belfast Castle at the bottom of Cave Hill is the last castle in Belfast. It was built in the heart of the city in the 12th century, but a building made of wood and stones replaced it 400 years later. The reason for this was a fire, which prompted the planners to have the castle rebuilt on the outskirts of the city. The castle can be visited after a short drive out of the city center. Not only a magnificent view of Belfast, but also historic interiors and a cozy park invite you to linger. Afterwards you can visit Cave Hill.
In the “Valley of Gold” lies the small town of Sóller in the northwest on the island of Mallorca. With its approximately 13,000 inhabitants on an area of about 43km², this place is certainly not one of the largest, but it is difficult to surpass in beauty.
Extensive orange plantations round off the natural look of Sóller and provide a colourful change from the lush greenery of the small town. You might think that the name “Valley of Gold” is due to the oranges, but after a short research it was clear that liquid gold was extracted from the olive groves at that time, which can only be seen sporadically today.
After this short historical digression, we turn our full attention back to the sights of the small town idyll.
What to see in Sóller
Sóller is located 3 kilometres inland from the coast, but with the district of Port de Sóller it offers direct access to the Mediterranean Sea. The small harbour town offers a beautiful view of the water and shines in full splendour, especially at dusk. The numerous restaurants and bars invite you to a cozy dinner with friends and offer a fantastic view of the setting sun off Mallorca’s coasts.
Old tram in Sóller, Image: Karol Kozlowski / shutterstock
In the centre of Sóller, culture fans will get their money’s worth. The church of Sant Bartomeu is located in the heart of the city, in the Plaza Constitutión, where life also takes place. Even from the outside, Sant Bartomeu impresses with extraordinary architecture and imposing details. But the interior of the church also has a lot of attention to detail and is definitely worth a tour. There is also a beautiful permanent exhibition in the Plaza Constitutión, where not only local artists are exhibited, but also heavyweights such as Kandinsky or Picasso. You can also visit the Balearic Museum of Natural Sciences or enjoy the flora and fauna of the Jordí Botànic, a garden with many plant species just a few minutes’ walk from the city centre towards the harbour.
Shopping & Dining in Sóller
The church of Sant Bortomeu, Image: schoppino / shutterstock
But if you prefer to come to Sóller for shopping or a leisurely meal with friends, you will not be disappointed. Around the Plaza Constitutión there are lots of bars and restaurants. Cute cafés invite you to relax in a cozy atmosphere. Of course, the range of designer shops here is not as large as on Palma, for example, but you should plan your day trip on a Saturday. Saturday is market day in Sóller. The square is teeming with locals and tourists interested in shopping. Retailers offer all kinds of goods, such as sought-after designer fashion. Hand-painted furniture or self-made textiles can be found here in abundance. A perfect souvenir and memento for home.
Athletes or hobby hikers can also let off steam here. The GR221 long-distance hiking trail or dry stone route leads through the town and the harbour and thus offers a perfect alternative to culture and the hustle and bustle of Sóller for beginners as well as experienced hikers or mountain bikers. Guided hikes can also be booked for little money.
There are not many hotels in the beautiful small town, but there are enough. There, however, the selection is surprisingly large. Both small holiday apartments in country house style and modern, stylish apartments are part of Sóller’s repertoire.
As an insider tip, you should definitely visit the ice cream restaurant Sa Fábrica de Gelats . There you will find delicious ice cream with many different, extraordinary flavors. In general, you can rely on the regional products here. Due to the many orange plantations, it is obvious that there is also excellent orange juice and all kinds of products of the delicious fruit. So support the regional entrepreneurs and take a jar of jam home with you.
In conclusion, Sóller can only be recommended. Whether for a longer period of time or for a day trip on your next Mallorca holiday. This small but fine town offers everything your travel heart desires and will not disappoint you.
