All about travel

Belfast – Sights in Northern Ireland’s capital

PatrickJullien

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30. May 2025

Belfast – Sights in Northern Ireland’s capital

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.

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Belfast Titanic Experience

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

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, Belfast — 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

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.

Sóller – Valley of Gold

PatrickJullien

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30. May 2025

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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.

Tram, Sóller — 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

Church of Sant Bortomeu, Soller — 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.

Holidays in Kenya – paradise in East Africa

Africa
Kenya

PatrickJullien

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30. May 2025

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Holidays in Kenya – paradise in East Africa

This article is a paid ad Hakuna Matata – Everything is fine. The famous saying from the movie “The Lion King” is the motto of life in Kenya. Everything is a little more relaxed there and without the pressure and hectic pace that we know all too well from Germany . But that’s not the only thing that makes Kenya a true holiday paradise in East Africa. In the endless savannahs of the country you can meet the Big 5 – elephant, rhino, buffalo, lion and leopard. And on the endless white sandy beaches of the Indian Ocean, you completely forget all the worries and stress from Germany.

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The best travel destinations in Kenya

The majority of tourists who come to Kenya every year are of course looking forward to a safari. And quite rightly so. Because having seen lions, elephants and rhinos up close once in your life is an experience you won’t forget in a hurry. In Kenya, you can meet the wild animals in untouched nature today in the national parks. The most famous park is Maasai Mara, which borders directly on the Serengeti. Every year, you can see a huge migration of wild animals as they cross the Mara River in search of better grazing grounds. Another, completely different highlight of the country is the coastal city of Mombasa directly on the Indian Ocean. Strongly influenced by the Swahili culture, the coastal region of Kenya is very different from the rest of the country. Endless white sandy beaches invite you to take walks along the turquoise sea. Of course, you can also swim or even dive wonderfully in the lukewarm ocean. Afterwards, the delicious, freshly caught seafood found in the city’s excellent restaurants is the perfect way to end a wonderful day.

If you don’t want it to go so far away: Alternatives within Europe

But maybe you don’t want to travel to another continent this year after all. We understand this and have therefore provided some great alternatives to a holiday in Kenya.

Holidays in Denmark

Beach Denmark — Relaxing in peace on Denmark’sbeaches, Image: Ioana Catalina E/shutterstock

A holiday home holiday on Denmark’s Baltic or North Sea coast is a real classic. And quite rightly so. After all, a holiday in a holiday home in Denmark promises to combine the best of two worlds at once. Firstly, in the holiday home you can enjoy the comfort of your own home without being disturbed by other guests. In addition, you will have the holiday paradise of Denmark right on your doorstep. Long sandy beaches, a pleasantly mild climate and the very friendly hosts make a holiday there unforgettable.

Holidays in London

As one of the oldest capitals in Europe, London is still one of the cultural centres of the continent. First-class museums, galleries and historical sights are lined up close together in London. It is also home to some of the best restaurants in the world. The perfect destination for a gourmet holiday full of cultural highlights.

Summer holidays on Denmark’s largest island, Zealand

PatrickJullien

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30. May 2025

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Summer holidays on Denmark’s largest island, Zealand

Holidaymakers who tick similarly to me, in that they want to spend their holidays in the same place not only for relaxation, will find an ideal holiday area on the Danish island of Zealand. The approximately 7,000 km² island, which could also be called the “Baltic Sea country”, offers its visitors the advantage of being able to arrange their holiday stay according to individual preferences and needs. I would be happy to share with you some suggestions derived from my previous stays in a holiday home on Zealand to make your holiday more varied.

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Family holidays on the beaches of South Zealand

Karrebaeksminde, Zealand — Karrebaeksminde, Image: Gestur Gislason / shutterstock

It is up to you whether you want to reach Zealand by car ferry from Rostock or the island of Fehmarn or choose to get there by land via Flensburg and the bridge over the Great Belt. Since the island has a large number of holiday homes, you also have the option of choosing the holiday accommodation according to your budget and requirements.

South Zealand has proven to be an ideal holiday destination for me, which offers ideal conditions for a family with children. For example, the small island of Enö, which can be reached via a bascule bridge, offers wide sandy beaches that flow into shallow water, especially off Karrebaeksminde, where they form a particularly child-friendly surface. In the evenings, the sunsets offer an additional romantic experience. My family felt quite comfortable on the beaches of Faxe Bay in the eastern area of Zealand.

White sandy beaches run flat into the clear water in a child-friendly way, a bathing bridge inspires the older semesters and amber and smaller fossils trigger unimagined collecting passions. If your holiday takes you to the north coast of Zealand, some beaches on the Danish Riviera, such as the beach off Ebbelökke, which is equipped with children’s waterholes, or the neighbouring, never crowded beach of Sonnerup, are ideal for a few relaxing hours with the family.

Places to visit on Zealand

Frederiksborg Castle, Hilleröd, Zealand — Frederiksborg Castle in Hilleröd, Image: Kiev.Victor / shutterstock

It is not without reason that Zealand is called the island of castles and manor houses. While Copenhagen or Roskilde are widely known as attractive cities, places such as the medieval port city of Köge on the east coast of Zealand, Lejre near Roskilde or Hilleröd in the northeast of the island are among the insider tips of the excursion destinations. Köge convinces with a historic town centre, which is formed, among other things, by half-timbered houses from the 17th century and the Nicolaikirche from the 14th century. A few kilometres south of the village, the picturesquely situated Vallö Castle invites you to visit. Lejre offers interesting insights into the settlement history of the Vikings and has two worthwhile sights in store with the Land of Legends leisure centre and the Rococo castle of Ledreborg. Hilleröd is best known for its massive Renaissance Frederiksborg Castle, where the Danish National History Museum is an absolute must for museum lovers.

A day at Dyrehavsbakken Amusement Park

Although the Dyrehavsbakken had not been part of the program of my vacation trip to the island of Zealand, my youngest family member was able to convince me of the opposite. So we went to this oldest amusement park in the world, located north of Copenhagen , and in the end we didn’t regret this decision. Equipped with the necessary change – the individual rides charge individual prices – we passed the bust of the juggler Professor Tribini, who worked successfully here for 30 years, and plunged into the fun. The ride on one of the oldest wooden roller coasters in Europe and a visit to the 5D adventure cinema were among the fun highlights, while we were spoiled with culinary delights in one of the park restaurants.

A trip to Jammerland Bay

A holiday on Zealand allows you to get to places that have scenic, cultural or culinary highlights to offer away from the tourist centres in a relatively short distance. For example, I was thrilled by the port city of Kalundborg, which is located in the northern part of the Great Belt and on the northern shore of Jammerland Bay. Here it is worth visiting the brick building of the Frauenkirche, which dates back to the Middle Ages with five towers, and a detour to the tip of the Rösnaes peninsula.

South of Kalundborg and Jammerland Bay, which by the way has a very nice riverside hiking trail, lies the small peninsula of Reersö. With a little luck, you can discover one of the rare tailless cats that live here and take a little journey through time through the historic centre of the town of Reersö. And don’t forget to crown your trip with a visit to the thatched, more than 300-year-old Reersö Kro restaurant, which offers fried eel with white potatoes as a specialty.

Hike along the cliffs of Zealand

Hojerup Church, Stevns Klint — The collapsed Hojerup Church at Stevn Klints Bridge, Image: kimson / shutterstock

It is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site, the cliffs known as Stevns Klint in the southeast of Zealand. The coastal section, which consists of steep chalk cliffs and is up to 40 metres high, rises from the sea for about 15 kilometres. You can hike it on a kind of trail, which, however, requires sure-footed shoes. At the Stevns lighthouse, the highest point of the cliff, you can expect an inspiring view. In addition to Højerup Church, built in the 13th century, you can discover a wide variety of visible and underground buildings from the Cold War era. Next to the church, a path leads down to the beach of the cliff coast. In the visitor centre, which was built in a chalk quarry, you can take an informative break accompanied by a lot of information.

Brisbane: The pearl on Australia’s east coast

Australia

PatrickJullien

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30. May 2025

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Brisbane: The pearl on Australia’s east coast

It took less than 150 years from the founding of a lonely penal colony on the Brisbane River to the present day: Brisbane is a modern city that is considered a tourist hotspot in Australia because of its fantastically beautiful, sunlit location by the sea and the numerous holiday paradises all around.

What’s more, the entire eastern part of Australia is a popular hub for visitors from all over the world. First and foremost, it is the popular states of Queensland and New South Wales that make up Australia’s east. Quite the opposite to the Australian “Wild West”, which is so sparsely populated that a journey from one place to another can sometimes take day trips. On the east coast, on the other hand, things are much livelier – and one attraction follows the other.

There are also some climatic differences to other parts of the country: For example, the pronounced subtropical climate in Australia’s east ensures very pleasant temperatures – all year round. Mountain ranges rise up to 2,200 meters in height.
So: Full marks for Brisbane! While the cosmopolitan city of Sydney scores with its wealth of sights, visitors to Brisbane are also attracted to cultural highlights en masse.

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Brisbane – Australia’s third largest city

Brisbane City Hall, Image: SchnepfDesign / shutterstock

Brisbane, with its approximately 2.2 million inhabitants, is the capital of the particularly popular state of Queensland. Brisbane became popular due to its comprehensive range of cultural attractions: Especially as a concert lover or theater lover, you will appreciate the rich offers of Brisbane’s cultural sites.

As the third largest city behind the metropolises of Sydney and Melbourne , Brisbane is a particularly popular destination for tourists from all parts of the world. Brisbane’s internationality is just as characteristic as the cityscape, which is characterized by many subcultures. In addition, a strong, important cultural scene has been established, which is a magnet for artists from all parts of the world.

Brisbane’s nightlife is also lively and colourful. CBD, Brisbane’s Central Business District, is located on a peninsula in a bend of the Brisbane River. The city center is quite manageable in terms of area with only about 2.2 square kilometers, but the oversupply of sightseeing highlights and shopping offers fascinates all visitors so much that the individual time budget quickly becomes insignificant for some visitors. All streets in the CBD are named after members of the British royal family, such as the famous Queen Street with the huge Queen Street Mall. Queen Street stretches from northeast to southwest and is considered Brisbane’s most prestigious boulevard.

Lots of leisure fun

Shopping in the city, visiting art exhibitions, galleries and theatre performances, boat trips with many other people or a romantic holiday for two on a summer night: Brisbane overwhelms its visitors with interesting offers for big and small leisure fun:

Maheno Shipwreck, Fraser Island — The shipwreck of the Maheno in Fraser Island, Image: karegg / shutterstock

Culture lovers and art lovers will find numerous galleries, theatres and museums of various genres in the renowned Queensland Cultural Centre. While the South Bank Parklands offer wonderful opportunities for swimming, lots of sports fun, walks and bike rides or simply relaxing, visits to the Fraser Islands are a “must” for visitors to Brisbane:

The Fraser Islands are located off Queensland and are considered the largest sand island in the world with a longitudinal extension of over 120 km. There, holidaymakers can expect sandstone cliffs with great vantage points, a shipwreck, fascinating flora and fauna and unique dream beaches.

Brisbane’s dream beaches

Measured from Brisbane’s city centre, it’s less than 20 kilometres to the Pacific coast and the beautiful beaches around the city. Although Streets Beach in the South Bank Parklands offers beautiful beach life, visits to the sea beaches in Brisbane’s north and south are highly recommended: The Sunshine Coast is particularly beautiful and very popular. Along the way, visitors pass through Moreton Bay and Bribie Island, as well as the Gold Coast’s swimming beaches. The Gold Coast is considered a prime hotspot for the surfing community. There are also many shopping opportunities and a nightlife that is as amusing as it is exciting.

Great climate

A mild south-easterly trade wind is considered characteristic of the mild, warm climate in eastern Australia. Further inland, mountain ranges rise up to 2,200 metres high, which is why there is also uphill rain in the region from time to time. There are no pronounced temperature fluctuations between day and night. While there are temperature fluctuations behind the mountains near Canberra , Brisbane has a slightly humid, subtropical east-side climate. While the summer months from November to April are characterized by precipitation and warmth, in winter from May to October, as everywhere else in the southern hemisphere of the world, there is a dry climate with mild temperatures. On average, there is rain on 125 days a year and the sun shines for an average of 3,000 hours a year.

Overall, January is considered the warmest month and July the coldest month. The average annual high temperature is 26.4 °C. The lowest temperature is still a wonderfully mild 16.2 °C. The average water temperature of the sea is 24 °C. These are all the best conditions for an unforgettable holiday in and around Brisbane

Holidays with family in Mallorca – Despite Corona

PatrickJullien

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30. May 2025

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Holidays with family in Mallorca – Despite Corona

Holidays in Mallorca in 2020 – We dared to do it despite Corona and were not disappointed. We have summarized what preparations were necessary for this and what experiences we have gained on the island.

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Preparation of the trip

Of course, face masks are part of the hand luggage on this year’s trip, like the passport and the first-aid kit. However, before you are allowed to enter Mallorca, you must first register with the Spanish health authority, provide your contact details at home and at your holiday destination and answer a few short health questions. These health questions can be answered from 48 hours before arrival. Registration can be made a few days earlier. All you need is your identity card or passport. The form is easy to understand and comprehensible. However, it is a bit annoying that as a family of four, you have to create and fill out the form completely four times, as there is no option for a group of several people.

Airport and flight

Frankfurt Airport Corona — Nothing going on at Frankfurt Airport, Image: Reisemagazin Online

Anyone flying out of Frankfurt these days will experience the airport as empty as rarely before. Hardly any take-offs and landings and therefore only a few passengers. The check-in went absolutely smoothly with little waiting time at the baggage check-in. At the gate, the usual suspects, who are already afraid at the first boarding call that the plane could take off without them and therefore have no consideration for small children when jostling. At least something normal in these crazy days. To protect our children, we booked “Business Class” on our Condor flight for an extra charge. So the rows around us were free and of course the middle seat remained empty.

The Boeing 737 itself did not seem to be fully occupied in economy class either, so I did not notice any hygiene deficiencies here either. No open drinks were allowed to be served during the flight. Instead, the stewardesses and stewards distributed a mix of packaged sweets, snacks, yoghurt and moistening wipes in a bag. Included in Business Class, the offered mix of standard seats cost 6.50 euros.

Arrival in Palma de Mallorca

Palma de Mallorca Airport, Corona — There is also little going on at the airport in Palma de Mallorca , Image: Reisemagazin Online

Contrary to the widespread reports, we did not have any large passenger volume at the airport at 10 o’clock in the morning, so that we got through the security checks quickly and without queuing. It was a bit more crowded at the baggage claim, but all holidaymakers kept the necessary minimum distance from each other. At the rental car counters you had to bring a little patience. Apparently, many travelers here rely more on self-organized hotel transport. This can also be seen when you leave the airport building. Where one transport bus usually stands next to the other, there were large gaps this year.

Procedure in the hotel

This year’s choice fell on the Protur Biomar Gran Hotel in Sa Coma. Since we already know the hotel from previous trips to Mallorca, we can compare the situation during Covid-19 times particularly well with previous stays.

If you move around the hotel grounds, e.g. from the room to the pool, masks are compulsory from the age of 6. This is certainly a little annoying for small children, but as an adult you are already used to the mask from home. At the pool as well as at the table in the restaurant, the mask can of course be taken off.

Procedure at the buffet

In the restaurant – as usual … will present a large live cooking offer. In terms of content, the restaurant strives to provide the same scope and quality as in previous years. The buffet is set up in a classic way. The only but clear difference: service staff put the food on the guests’ plates after the choice. So you can’t portion the food yourself as usual. This limits the culinary feeling of happiness a little, as you don’t dare to try a little bit of everything. In addition, the hotel serves portioned starters and desserts in a glass or bowl, which you can take yourself. Overall, it can be said that a restaurant concept has been worked out, which nevertheless provides the guest with a special experience.

The situation in the village and on the beach

Sa Coma Beach — It is not quite as empty on the beach of Sa Coma as in this photo, even in Corona times, Image: Diego Blanco / shutterstock

One thing in advance: If you move around the village, there is a strict mask requirement in Mallorca (as of July 30, 2020). In Sa Coma, located in the southeast of the island , the Corona consequences are very clearly felt. Many shops are closed. Open shops are only lightly frequented. So far, we have always been on the road here in the pre-season and have found a lively holiday resort. This is absolutely not the case this year. On the one hand, this provides a certain security, but it also makes you a little sad because it is foreseeable how hard the Covid crisis will hit the people of Mallorca. Especially those who depend on tourism.

A few vacationers gather on the beach, but the clear majority of the official beach chairs remain empty. However, the minimum distances are observed by all beach visitors, so that a safe holiday is also possible here.

Is a holiday in Mallorca possible in 2020?

Our experience shows that a holiday in Mallorca is possible even during Corona. the Mallorcans are very keen to ensure that the restrictions are not significant and that guests can enjoy their holiday as carefree as possible. The security measures in the shops (especially in large supermarkets) are at least as strict as in Germany. We do not regret our decision to fly and would book again at any time.

Excursion to Easter Island

PatrickJullien

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30. May 2025

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The stone giants of Easter Island are a household name for many people. To this day, it is not clear what the iconic figures are all about, which are made of stone weighing tons and have made the island in Polynesia famous. In addition to the famous stone figures, the island, which officially belongs to Chile , has even more to offer for travelers. In recent years, the infrastructure for tourists has been expanded, taking care not to disturb the unique charm of the island. Even today, holidaymakers will find an almost completely natural paradise with secrets, myths and the opportunity to experience a holiday that is certainly unique.

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A holiday on Easter Island as a special highlight

Anakena Beach on Easter Island, Image: Olga Danylenko / shutterstock

In general, most tourists travel to the island for one to three days. In the end, the island is only 179 square kilometers in size and if you don’t want to take one of the guided tours to discover nature on the island, you will eventually be done with the sights. However, this is also a great advantage for the visitors. Since Easter Island has not adapted to long stays of tourists, it is still preserved in many parts exactly as it was before the boom of cruise ships.

Easter Island belongs to Polynesia and is therefore officially part of the territory of Chile. This does not change even though a trip to the island by plane from Santiago de Chile takes around five hours. The island has always been remote and has mainly adapted to self-sufficiency. In recent years, it has become more popular with tourists, mainly due to the booming cruise industry . Many of the major shipping companies stop on the island for a day as part of the trip and offer various tours around the island and to the main attractions.

If you decide to travel to Easter Island as an individual tourist, you should familiarize yourself with the conditions of the island beforehand. Although there are some hotels on the island, they have limited capacities. You should also have informed yourself beforehand about which tours are possible at which time of year. Nature lovers and hikers in particular are drawn to the island in the cool months of July and August to explore the island’s volcano on foot or walk through the beautiful landscape.

A cultural gem in the middle of the ocean

The history of Easter Island is eventful and to this day “Rapa Nui” is of special importance not only for tourists, but also for scientists. This is also due to the fact that the people here have lived completely autonomously for a very long time and thus many developments of the Western world only arrived on the island in the 20th century. After Chile claimed the island for itself, a long struggle began with the government in Santiago of Chile to get rights on the island that were close to the other inhabitants of the country.

In many travel guides, Easter Island is described as a huge open-air museum and that seems to be the case indeed. If you are looking for a relaxing holiday or a party, you will certainly be disappointed. The island has some bars and discos in the Hcapital Hanga Roa , but these are more for the locals than for the tourists. It should be mentioned that the island is comparatively expensive. Due to their remote location, many foods are expensive and this is also reflected in the visits to the restaurants. This should also be taken into account when planning your own trip.

In any case, most people come here because of the many traces of the former inhabitants of Easter Island. After all, the island has an eventful history and it is above all the traces of the former inhabitants that have made the island so famous. The huge rock heads, the moai, can be found in various places on the island. As a rule, they are part of larger places of worship and can be visited in conjunction with a museum. In addition, archaeologists have uncovered many parts of the former cult sites in recent years and are still puzzling over the religion associated with them. The only thing that is certain is that the island probably had its first contact with Europeans in the 18th century and the corresponding cultures must have emerged completely free of external influences.

In addition to the special sites that are spread over the island, the island’s three volcanoes are also worth mentioning. They are probably the reason for the formation of Easter Island and have ensured that the fertile island was formed over the course of millions of years. Today, various tours lead along the volcanoes and to the peaks. Here, too, there used to be a place of worship, which has been rebuilt in recent years with elaborate work. Of particular beauty is the extinct volcanic crater of Rano Kau, which is offered by various guides on the island for hikes all year round.

Finally, there is also the South Sea beach Anakena. It is the only place on the island where bathing is allowed. On the other hand, there is wonderful water and a great beach that stretches for a few kilometers and also makes the impressive underwater world of the island accessible with diving courses.

Is it worth visiting Easter Island?

Rano Kau, Easter Island Volcano — The volcano Rano Kau, Image: IURII BURIAK / shutterstock

Easter Island is of a special beauty. If you know what you expect from your holiday, you will be able to have a good time here. While the islands are not intended for recreation and package tourists, they offer a beautiful landscape and a unique culture that eludes Western influences to this day and thus offers a world of its own. Especially in connection with a general visit to South America, a trip to the island is worthwhile.

Holidays in Franconia – Between culture, nature and Franconian wine

PatrickJullien

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30. May 2025

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Holidays in Franconia – Between culture, nature and Franconian wine

The famous Franconian wine, wonderful hiking opportunities, historic cities and pure nature make Franconia a multifaceted holiday destination in Germany. Cities such as Nuremberg or Bamberg invite you to take a city trip and the different Franconian areas have the right travel landscape for every taste.

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Franconia for city lovers

Nuremberg

For a city trip, it doesn’t always have to be the giant metropolises! Holidaymakers who attach great importance to cultural, architectural and culinary offerings are in good hands in the Franconian cities. Nuremberg is probably the first thing that comes to mind when you think of cities in Franconia. Especially the medieval architecture of the old town with the magnificent imperial castle characterizes the cityscape. The city has an excellent reputation as a trade fair city and is on everyone’s lips even outside Germany due to its famous Nuremberg Christmas market and tasty bratwurst. Albrecht Dürer already enjoyed the latter. In addition to visiting the many museums, a walk through the Tiergarten is also worthwhile. In idyllic surroundings, visitors can experience sea lions and dolphins in the dolphin lagoon or enjoy the tropical atmosphere in the manatee house.

Würzburg

In Würzburg, the Residenz is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. But not only that. It is also one of the most important castles in Europe. A mixture of culture, architecture and baroque gives the old city on the Main a special charm and pure joie de vivre. Würzburg’s “Stein” or the vineyards create a picturesque picture that attracts not only wine lovers.

Bamberg

Romantics are drawn to Bamberg. Here, holidaymakers stroll through winding alleys past baroque and medieval facades or stroll through small specialist and antique shops in the old town. The famous Bamberg Symphony Orchestra shapes the culture just as much as a large number of cabaret stages or the shadow theatre. In the traditional beer city, a freshly tapped beer is of course not to be missed. Another Franconian city that city lovers should visit is Bayreuth. The Festspielhaus on the green hill is just as much a part of the international cultural city as the Richard Wagner Museum or the Margravial Opera House. https://youtu.be/s1PyAktZogM

Popular areas for a holiday in Franconia

Many different areas create a varied travel landscape for Franconian holidays. Franconian Switzerland ranks high on the popularity scale. Travel writers from the 19th century gave the area its current name, as they felt reminded of Switzerland by the rocks, valleys and mountains. Franconian Switzerland is one of the oldest holiday regions in Germany and is located between Bayreuth, Bamberg and Nuremberg. More than 30 castles and medieval castles can be discovered here. In addition, a large nature park and more than 1000 caves await. The leisure activities here are also varied and include excursions to climbing parks, themed hikes or canoe tours. Gentle tourism, forests, friendly villages or even dark moors characterize the Rhön. The volcanic low mountain range of the Rhön is criss-crossed by an extensive network of hiking trails. The paths of the “border triangle” (Thuringia, Hesse, Franconia) lead up to the Kreuzberg or the “Black Moor”. Visitors have a fantastic view from the Wasserkuppe. This is the highest mountain in the Rhön.

The Wasserkuppe in the early morning, Image: Lapping Pictures / shutterstock

The Fichtel Mountains are the perfect holiday area for athletes. It is located in the northeast of Bavaria and rises to up to 1000 meters. In Germany , the Fichtel Mountains are one of the snowiest landscapes. At the appropriate time of year, there are the best conditions for cross-country skiing, snowshoeing or skiing. But there are also numerous opportunities for sporting activity outside the winter season. A winch run in the zipline park on the southern slope of the Ochsenkopf leads rapidly down into the valley. Nature can be explored on wonderful cycling and hiking trails. Another focus is on health and wellness. In Bad Berneck, for example, the focus is on Kneipp and in Bad Alexandersbad, guests can have a good time in the smallest Bavarian spa. Holiday guests with a preference for water should consider the Franconian Lake District for a stay. Its seven lakes make it the centre of Franconian water sports and a perfect holiday destination for families. Here you can sail, swim, dive or cast a rod. Excursion boats also sail at the Großer Brombachsee and the Altmühlsee, with which the landscape can be enjoyed from the water. Away from the water, there are of course also hiking and walking opportunities.

Franconia culinary

Viticulture in Franconia — Viticulture plays an important role in Franconia, Image: Gerhard Roethlinger / shutterstock

Nuremberg bratwurst and Franconian wine are just two of many Franconian specialties. If you love culinary delights, you will not be disappointed on a holiday in Franconia. For the famous bratwurst, there has been a regulation since the Middle Ages, which ensures consistent quality. The grilled sausages grilled over beech logs were added to the register of culinary specialities protected by the EU in 2003. Since meat dishes are very important in Franconian cuisine, not only the sausages are a specialty. For example, the Schäufele (shoulder blade of the pig) is also very well-known. It is prepared whole with fat rind and bone in the oven. Served with potato dumplings, gravy and red cabbage, it is an absolute treat for the palate. At least as popular as the Nuremberg grilled sausage is the Franconian Sauerbraten. The roast, marinated and then braised for several days, is also served with dumplings and red cabbage. Franconia is known for the breeding of char, trout and carp. These are also not missing from any good menu and are served baked. The Franconian also has no objection to a hearty snack. Such a meal includes homemade sausage specialties, smoked ham, bread and plucked meat. Plucked is comparable to Bavarian Obazda. In addition to the hearty delights, there are of course also Franconian desserts to enjoy. The Kissinger is a croissant made of butter pastry dough, which is covered with cooked icing and consists of a jam or hazelnut filling on the inside. By the way, the sweet particle comes from the district of Bad Kissingen. Fruit varieties from orchards are also used in the sweet cuisine. They are used to make delicacies such as apple mustard or apple bratwurst. About 80% of the well-known Franconian wine is white wine. Franconian wines have a high mineral content and taste particularly spicy. One of the typical Franconian wines is Silvaner. In the end, it remains to be said: A holiday in Franconia is a good choice in terms of landscape and culture as well as culinary.

Harz Mountains, heath and “sea” – a diverse holiday destination in Lower Saxony

PatrickJullien

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30. May 2025

0

Harz Mountains, heath and “sea” – a diverse holiday destination in Lower Saxony

Lower Saxony, Germany’s second-largest state in terms of area, impresses with its diversity. Between the peaks of the Harz Mountains and the coasts of East Frisia, both those who are active in sports and those interested in culture will find a suitable environment. The charming landscape between the Elbe, Ems and Leine offers all leisure opportunities. In addition, there are numerous other sights: From the picturesque half-timbered town to the modern “Autostadt”, each of them is worth a visit.

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“At the top” in Lower Saxony: East Frisia and its islands

Borkum Beach, Lower Saxony — Relaxing on the beach of Borkum, Image: WalterWeiss / shutterstock

Wide white beaches and always a fresh breeze characterize the seven islands of East Frisia. Borkum, Baltrum, Juist, Norderney, Wangerooge, Spiekeroog and Langeoog lie lined up like pearls off the coast of the mainland. Not only allergy sufferers appreciate the clear, pollen-free air and the wind that blows around their noses. Guided hikes are the best way to explore the unique, strictly protected flora and fauna of the Wadden Sea UNESCO World Heritage Site. Families in particular experience special holiday moments here. The “Land behind the dike” captivates visitors with its maritime flair. Picturesque fishing villages and port towns such as Emden or Cuxhaven convey a touch of seafaring romance.

The region has a lot in store for connoisseurs. Fans of fresh fish will get their money’s worth. If you spend your holidays here, you should not miss out on participating in the famous “tea ceremony”. This epitome of East Frisian cosiness and hospitality has been on the UNESCO list of intangible cultural assets since 2016. The northernmost region of Lower Saxony is not only an attractive holiday destination in summer.

Dark moors and idyll by the river – the Emsland

Papenburg, Lower Saxony — Papenburg, Image: Sina Ettmer Photography

Romantic canals with wooden bascule bridges and numerous replicas of ships – Papenburg presents itself to its guests almost Dutch. In the Meyer Werft shipyard located here, luxurious cruise ships are built that later turn holiday wishes into reality on all the world’s oceans. The adjoining visitor centre provides interesting insights into the construction and construction of future “dream ships”. In addition to this technical highlight, the Emsland stands for intact nature and green expanses. Cyclists choose the right one for them from routes of all levels of difficulty. Quiet waterways and canals invite canoeists. Mysterious moors want to be discovered as well as megalithic graves from the early days of man.

In the cuisine of the Emsland, North German, Westphalian and some Dutch influences are mixed. A typical speciality is “Beschüte”, a kind of rusk in several variations.

Nature worthy of protection and a “blooming” cultural landscape: the Lüneburg Heath

Lüneburg Heath, Lower Saxony — The Lüneburg Heath, Image: Thorsten Link / shutterstock

The Lüneburg Heath is one of the oldest of the more than one hundred nature parks in Germany. On an area of over 107,000 hectares, it covers the largest contiguous heath area in Central Europe. Heidschnucken, the native sheep breed, help as animal “landscape gardeners” in the care and preservation of the area. From the beginning of August until September, the small purple flowers of the heather dominate the picture and make a stay an unforgettable experience. Locals and their guests enjoy this natural spectacle by bike, on foot or during one of the popular carriage rides.

The region is also worth a visit outside the heather blossom. Amusement parks such as the well-known Heide Park Soltau or the colourful Weltvogelpark Walsrode await young and old visitors. The historic cities of Lüneburg or Celle invite you to take an enjoyable stroll with their picturesque alleys, shops and cafés. Heidschnuckenbraten or buckwheat dishes and other culinary specialties are not to be missed. As a souvenir, for example, the delicious heather honey at the breakfast table at home reminds you of the relaxing days.

Of dancing witches and the “roof of northern Germany” – the magical Harz Mountains

Brocken, Harz — The Brocken, Image: K I Photography / shutterstock

With its mountainous landscape, the Harz National Park is a paradise for hikers . Deep forests, clear streams and rugged rocks are home to rare animal and plant species. The Brocken, the highest mountain in northern Germany at 1,141 metres, is surrounded by countless myths and legends. The famous “Dance of the Witches” on Walpurgis Night is just one of them. Due to its exposed location, its summit is rough and windy at any time of the year. This climatic peculiarity allows plants to grow there that are otherwise only found in Scandinavia. The Brocken can be hiked or “experienced” by mountain bike.

However, many visitors appreciate the popular and comfortable Brocken cable car for the ascent. The Bad Harzburg treetop walk opens up a whole new forest perspective. Under no circumstances should a visit to the thousand-year-old town of Goslar be missed during a holiday in the Harz Mountains. Rich history and culture make the imperial city a sight for all ages. The old core with its more than 1,500 half-timbered houses has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Those interested in history and technology like to visit the Rammelsberg ore mine here. There you will get a deep insight into the mining history of the region. Enjoyment is not neglected in the Harz Mountains. The palette ranges from the “Harzer Roller”, a sour milk cheese, to hearty sausage specialities and the famous “Schierker Feuerstein”, a spicy herbal liqueur made according to a secret recipe.

Two economic centres: Wolfsburg and Hanover

New Town Hall, Hanover — The “New Town Hall”, Image: Mapics / shutterstock

The capital of Lower Saxony, Hanover , gained international fame above all as a trade fair city and today has the largest exhibition grounds in the world. Around 60 events of national importance take place here every year, including the Hannover Messe. In recent years, the city on the Leine has gained a tourist profile. Its parks, cultural events and museums make it an up-and-coming destination. Extensive green and open spaces create a relaxed atmosphere.

A worthwhile destination is the Steinhuder Meer, the largest lake in Lower Saxony. This body of water is located about 30 kilometers northwest of the city and offers a lot of recreation for water sports enthusiasts and cyclists.

Since 2000, Lower Saxony has had a special kind of amusement park in the form of the “Autostadt” Wolfsburg. Between the city centre and the Volkswagen plant, there is a 28-hectare site on the Mittelland Canal, which also functions as a showroom, collection centre for new cars and event arena. There is a luxury hotel, over a dozen restaurants and numerous events throughout the year. A tour of this area is not only an experience for buyers of new cars.

Lower Saxony – travel destination at any time of the year

Lower Saxony as a travel destination thrives on its contrasts and diversity. Relaxing beach holidays in East Frisia, cycling in the Lüneburg Heath and hiking tours in the Harz Mountains leave no room for boredom. Various amusement parks and museums want to be discovered, especially on rainy days. The cities worth seeing contribute a considerable part to the attractiveness of the region. From maritime Wilhelmshaven to the “fairytale-like” Pied Piper town of Hamelin to the venerable university town of Göttingen, each has its own magic. As varied as the landscape and places, the culture and cuisine in this state between the far north and the center of Germany are

The Bulgarian Black Sea coast – bathing fun for young and old

PatrickJullien

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30. May 2025

0

The Bulgarian Black Sea coast – bathing fun for young and old

The Black Sea coast of Bulgaria is the tourist center of the country. Every year, millions of visitors from all parts of Europe flock here to experience the sun, the beaches and the Bulgarian hospitality. The Black Sea is great for swimming and is considered one of the cleanest seas in the world. In addition, the salt content of the water is comparatively low. This, in combination with the Mediterranean climate and a variety of fine sandy beaches, developed holiday centres and dreamy bays, makes the Bulgarian Black Sea coast a popular destination for young and old.

From Germany , the most common way to travel is by plane to one of the two airports on the Black Sea coast, Burgas or Varna. There are direct flights from most German commercial airports and the flight time is usually about two to two and a half hours. The official language is Bulgarian, but English and often even German are spoken very well almost everywhere.

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The highlights of the Bulgarian Black Sea coast

Golden Sands – the party capital of the Black Sea

Goldtrand, Black Sea Coast — Golden Sands on the Bulgarian Black Sea coast, Image: Alina G / shutterstock

The party stronghold of Golden Sands is one of the most famous holiday resorts on the Bulgarian Black Sea coast and is often described as the “Ballermann of the East”. Golden Sands has an area of over 1800 hectares, making it the largest seaside resort on the northern Bulgarian Black Sea coast. The beach itself has a length of over 3 kilometers and reaches a width of over 100 meters in places. However, Golden Sands has gained its reputation not only because of its beautiful beach, but above all because of the rich offer of bars, clubs and discos that visitors will find here. The nightlife is intense and extends almost every night until the early hours of the morning. Every conceivable type of water sport as well as countless leisure activities are also offered here. Nevertheless, Golden Sands still has some quiet and partly undiscovered corners and bays. The water temperature here reaches up to 26 degrees in summer and rarely falls below 20 degrees all year round.

Konstantin and Elena (Sveti Konstantin) – healing rest by the sea

Only about 10 kilometers northeast of Varna is Konstantin and Elena, the oldest seaside resort in Bulgaria. The first facilities for visitors were built here at the beginning of the 20th century. It is no coincidence that this place in particular became a magnet for visitors so early on, because Konstantin and Elena welcomes its guests with a magical combination of sunny sandy beaches, deep blue sea waves, healing mineral springs and restorative mountain air. Not far from the hotel complexes, you can also visit the monastery that gave this place its name. In Konstantin and Elena there are numerous hotels, bars and restaurants as well as a variety of leisure activities such as boat trips and jeep safaris.

Nessebar – the favourite resort of Bulgarians

View of Nessebar, Black Sea coast — View of Nessebar, Image: Michael Dechev / shutterstock

The listed town of Nessebar is considered a favorite of locals on the Bulgarian Black Sea coast, and foreign visitors are also falling more and more in love with this picturesque town. Nessebar is located off the coast and is only connected to the mainland by a narrow headland. The city welcomes its visitors with a variety of narrow and winding streets where there are countless shops, cafés, bars and restaurants to discover. The alleys are paved with old cobblestones and the old fishermen’s cottages made of limestone and wood give the place its very special charm. The beach of Nessebar has the finest sand and is therefore particularly popular with beach vacationers, it is considered one of the most beautiful beaches on the entire Bulgarian Black Sea coast.

Albena – an attractive seaside resort for families

Albena, Bulgarian Black Sea Coast — Extensive beach in Albena, Image: Michael Dechev / shutterstock

The seaside resort of Albena is one of the younger seaside resorts on the Bulgarian Black Sea coast. It was not until the 1960s that the first hotels moved into the area, but since then the place has become a favourite, especially for visitors looking for peace and relaxation as well as for families with children. Today, Albena is one of the largest holiday resorts on the Bulgarian Black Sea coast. The beach of Albena is about five kilometers long and slopes very gently into the sea in most places, so that children can also bathe, play and swim safely and comfortably here. Albena is located on the Baltova River, the banks of which are adorned with rich forests and provide a great place for shady walks. Of course, the tourist infrastructure is not neglected in Albena either, and there are countless shops, bars and restaurants serving both local and intentional cuisine.

Sunny Beach – the famous seaside resort

Another internationally known seaside resort on the Bulgarian Black Sea coast is Sunny Beach. Here, the name says it all and the place welcomes its visitors with a spacious bay surrounded by a fine and well-kept sandy beach. The beach has a length of almost 7 kilometers and offers a wonderful view of the listed city of Nessebar from many places. To the south of Sunny Beach are the famous sand dunes, which are part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site. Sunny Beach is one of the oldest Bulgarian seaside resorts, but in recent years it has undergone a great wave of modernizations and improvements, making it an attractive and friendly place to relax, swim and explore.

Sozopol – from fishing village to visitor magnet

Sozopol, Black Sea Coast Bulgaria — Sozopol, Image: Marynka Mandarinka / shutterstock

Similar to the listed city of Nessebar, the town of Sozopol is located off the coast on a rocky peninsula. The idyllic location together with the photogenic fishermen’s cottages have made Sozopol an increasingly popular excursion destination, attracting mainly artists, photographers and visitors in search of culture and authenticity. Despite the increasing number of visitors, Sozopol has managed to retain its original flair and thus gives its guests the chance to take a piece of the Bulgarian attitude to life with them. In Sozopol there are also two beaches that slope very gently into the sea and are ideal for swimming.

Varna – a big city on the coast

Varna is the center of the northern Bulgarian Black Sea coast and home to almost 500,000 people. At the same time, Varna is considered the most expensive city in Bulgaria. Originally a port and fishing city, Varna has now become a vibrant centre of art, culture and education. Visitors are particularly interested in the beautiful sea garden, the magnificent old town and the dolphinarium. The beach is also considered an insider tip – it is mainly the locals who come here, while tourists usually visit the beaches of the seaside resorts a little further away.