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Wednesday, July 2, 2025
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To the gorillas in the forests and mountains of Uganda

Pearls are said to be a very special gift from nature. They are certainly products of a cheerful day of creation. “Uganda is the pearl of the African continent”. This sentence is attributed to none other than the legendary British Prime Minister Sir Winston Churchill. He was not necessarily considered a person who tended to romantic rhetoric, but during his stay as colonial secretary in Africa, he went into raptures after a visit to Uganda. And this despite the fact that he suspected that the time of the British presence on the great continent was coming to an end. Churchill was fascinated by the variety of landscapes, the lush vegetation, the rich fauna and the pleasant climate in Uganda, even for Europeans. Today, visitors to Uganda search for the country’s greatest treasure in the rainforest – the mountain gorillas.

The ecological disaster on Lake Victoria

Uganda is a landlocked country – surrounded by two much larger neighbours. From the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Kenya. In the south, a mighty lake borders the country to Tanzania – Lake Victoria in the East African plateau. It suffers from an ecological disaster due to the rapid proliferation of the water hyacinths found here. However, the former principality of Uganda surprises with numerous surprising landscapes. With the endless plains of the national park, which was named after the British Queen Elizabeth, with the often mist-shrouded fire mountains and, last but not least, with the gorillas, which developed into an important source of income for the country. And this is simply because tourists from all over the world travel to Uganda to observe the families of the “silverbacks” up close.

Uganda – Undeveloped as in Stanley’s time

Gorillas Uganda
Gorillas in Bwindi National Park, Image: GUDKOV ANDREY / shutterstock
A tour to the mountain gorillas is one of the most intense experiences that Africa has to offer its guests as part of a safari. Several regions of Uganda are still largely undeveloped and present themselves in a state comparable to that once found by Henry Morton Stanley when he set out on a journey to the country’s jungle in 1870 to find a researcher on behalf of the New York Herald, who the world assumed was no longer alive. He was the doctor, explorer and missionary David Livingstone, who was revered as a national hero in Victorian-era Britain. Stanley found the missing man, returned to Africa years later and moved with the then Ugandan regent and two thousand porters armed with spears to Lake Albert and thus to the shores of the Blue Mountains in the border area with the Congo.

Kintu Dynasty and the Buganda Tombs

Uganda
Uganda offers a fantastic landscape, Image: evenfh / shutterstock
Uganda has a similar geographical size to the British Isles and is as densely populated as Austria. Uganda’s name derives from the forgotten kingdom of Buganda, which ruled East Africa with its Kintu dynasty in the 18th century. On Kasubi Hill not far from the metropolis of Kampala, the last four Buganda kings found their final resting place. The graves were added to the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2001. After turbulent times as a result of the transformation into a unitary state, there were also bloody conflicts in Uganda. But for years, the country has been pacified as a presidential republic and an interesting African destination for international tourism. If you go on a safari through Uganda, you can also look forward to a foray into history.

The steep paths to the mountain gorillas

The economy of this country in East Africa is enjoying an astonishing development. In order to attract holidaymakers to travel through Uganda, the authorities opened no fewer than ten national parks. “Oh Uganda – Land of Beauty” – so it says in the national anthem of the state. On a round trip, guests from another world meet friendly people almost everywhere and now and then also the heirs of the Batwa and Bambuti pygmies. Anyone who has signed up for a “gorilla trekking” should know that only those holidaymakers who do not have a cold will be taken along. The danger that the endangered animals could become infected in the rainforest should not be underestimated. You should also be in good shape, because the paths to the gorillas lead over narrow and often steep paths.

Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park in Uganda – eye to eye with the giants of the forests

Forest elephants populate the jungle in Uganda, and participants in a gorilla safari occasionally encounter lions in their search for the gorillas, most of which came from Congo’s Virunga National Park and tend to doze on fig trees during the day. The Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park in the Ugandan highlands is the ancestral home of almost half of all around a thousand mountain gorillas worldwide. Anyone who has ever looked one of the jungle giants, who genetically have so much in common with humans, in the eye, will never forget this. The powerful animals, which live in family groups, are used to small groups of human visitors visiting them. They almost always radiate a certain serenity and look at the holidaymakers with brown eyes when they meet. After about an hour, the visit to the mountain gorillas is over, because the inhabitants of the forests should not be disturbed in their refuge more than necessary. This is also Uganda’s contribution to environmental protection.

North Sea spa Büsum – a holiday resort for everyone

If you want to enjoy a real North Sea feeling, you will find it in Büsum. The small port town in Schleswig-Holstein is located directly on the North Sea. Here you can hear the sound of the North Sea waves and the screeching of the seagulls. Fine sand plays around your feet and when you take a deep breath, you can breathe in the wonderfully salty sea air. It is a perfect vacation spot for everyone. Young couples can have a great time here, as can seniors or families with children. There is plenty of space to play and romp. An event that holidaymakers with pets also appreciate very much. All these factors make Büsum one of the most popular holiday resorts in this area. In terms of overnight stays, it is even the third largest tourist resort on the Schleswig-Holstein North Sea coast behind Sankt Peter-Ording and Westerland.

Maritime flair on a walk through the harbour

Port of Büsum
The port of Büsum, photo: TMS Büsum GmbH

Once an island consisting of several villages, Büsum is now (since 1585) connected to the mainland. The townscape of the municipality from the district of Dithmarschen is particularly characterised by the fishing and excursion port. Here you will find typical maritime flair. A wide variety of boats anchor and the nationally known and popular Büsum crabs await you at Germany’s largest cutter harbour. With a romantic-picturesque atmosphere, it is always a perfect place for a leisurely stroll. A trip through the harbour on one of the Börte boats is also worthwhile. Visitors interested in history are drawn to the museum harbour. In addition to historical treasures from fishing, there are old ships and the lighthouse to see. It is Büsum’s landmark.

North Sea spa since 1949

As early as 1837, Büsum was awarded the title of North Sea Resort. In order to be allowed to bear this designation, it requires high requirements in terms of air and water quality, proximity to the sea and tourist infrastructure. Since 1949, the place has even been allowed to call itself a North Sea spa. This also requires the presence of remedies. These include, for example, sea silt or sea salt. Accordingly, holidaymakers will find great bathing opportunities on site. A highlight is the Perlebucht family lagoon. A wonderful dune landscape with wind-protected hollows, spacious natural areas and salt marsh-like vegetation. A bridge leads between the bathing and water sports pools to an entrance to the mudflats.

Barbecue areas, DLRG, playground equipment, hammocks, an attractive promenade and much more round off the offer of the Perlebucht. Of course, the main beach also offers a lot of variety for an extensive day of swimming and beach. Beach chairs for rent promise a box seat on the Wadden Sea, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. An overnight stay in a sleeping beach chair is a particularly great experience. A waterproof and windproof tarpaulin with window allows a carefree view of the starry sky even in less than optimal weather conditions. By the way, the Büsum sleeping beach chairs are manufactured in the workshop of the Stiftung Mensch, which is committed to the inclusion of people with disabilities.

Büsum – a paradise for cyclists

Büsum Family Lagoon
Playground in the family lagoon, Photo: TMS Büsum GmbH

If you want to explore the picturesque Büsum in a sporty way, you should hop on a bike. The event centre and the tourist information office have extensive maps available for holidaymakers. There are wonderful routes along the dike along the North Sea Coast Cycle Path to choose from. Guided bike tours can also be booked. Of course, there is also the possibility to rent a bike in Büsum. Sports and fitness enthusiasts are drawn to the spa gardens, where the vitality course with sports equipment for young and old encourages sporting activity. From June to September, experienced trainers offer insight into the correct use of fitness equipment. And what would a holiday by the sea be without water sports? The Büsum water sports school offers numerous courses for kitesurfing, stand up paddling and much more.

Fun for the little holidaymakers

Büsum Main Beach
The main beach of Büsum, Photo: TMS Büsum GmbH

There is always something going on in the Mini-Maxi-Club. Creative handicrafts and fun playtimes in bright, modern rooms make the hearts of children between 3 and 13 years of age beat faster. The Büsum holiday pastoral care also offers numerous events for the whole family. During the summer holidays, for example, there is mudflat football, sandcastle competitions or the “bedtime story” on the beach. Also exciting for children, but also for adults, is the Phänomania adventure centre. This is a hands-on museum where physics and science can be touched.

Sightseeing in Büsum

In addition to the numerous offers, you should also take time for the more traditional sightseeing during a holiday in Büsum. The Evangelical Lutheran Fisherman’s Church of St. Clemens is worth seeing. Built on the highest point of the city, the structure features an old baptismal font from the 13th century and a carved portrait of Martin Luther. Another attraction is the life-size bronze statue of Neocorus. During a stroll through the pedestrian zone, visitors can see the town hall in baroque style. The rather tranquil Büsum even has a high-rise to offer. The house is 85 meters high and towers over the surrounding buildings many times over.

As you can see from this little insight, the town on the Meldorf Bay has a wide range of offers for its holiday guests. In beautiful nature, you can spend a holiday where you don’t have to choose between activity and relaxation.

Polynesia – Island paradise in the ocean

The island region of Polynesia consists of many islands, as the name, which is derived from the Greek, already bluntly reveals. More precisely, from over 1000 islands, most of which are uninhabited.

The Polynesian Triangle, which has Hawaii, New Zealand and Easter Island as its cornerstones, covers an area of almost 50 million km², of which about 294,000 km² is forfeited to the landmass. New Zealand makes up the majority of the country.

Polynesia brings together a wide variety of cultures. The diverse traditional island culture has mixed with the Western cultures of Britain and France since the 18th century, but the locals have been successful in keeping their pre-colonial customs alive.

Islands of Polynesia

Tahiti – Showcase Island

Papeete, Tahiti
Tahiti’s capital Papeete. Image: NAPA / shutterstock

Tahiti is the largest island in French Polynesia and a member of the Society Islands. It is divided into Greater and Little Tahiti.

Tahiti is the island paradise par excellence: white sandy beaches, palm trees and a picturesque sea full of colorful fish. But there are also fascinating landscapes on the island. Black beaches, steep mountains and waterfalls provide hikers with a breathtaking backdrop. Museums and archaeological sites provide insights into the history of the island and culture. Papeete was elevated to the capital of Tahiti by the indigenous Queen Pomaré IV before 1830. Since the 1960s, it has had an airport and is a popular docking place for cruise ships.

Moorea – In the heart of Polynesia

17 kilometers from Tahiti is the island of Moorea. Here, too, the clearest water, picture-book beaches, high mountains and exotic flora beckon.

According to legend, the island with the striking silhouette is the dorsal fin of a huge fish.

Although Tahiti may be a little more famous, many travelers agree that Moorea is the most beautiful island in Polynesia. As early as the 18th century, this was agreed to by the explorer William Ellis.

Maupiti – The Untouched

Maupiti stands out from the rest of the islands above all with its authenticity. Its natural beauty can be easily explored on hikes, and by staying in inns run by the locals themselves, you are much closer to the culture than on the tourism-focused islands.

Of course, boat tours are also offered here and there are also some archaeological sights. Otherwise, however, the island, which is called Marua Ite Ra by the locals, is rather decelerating. The island lives from its originality and that is exactly what makes it so appealing.

But you can also visit the sister islands of Raiatea and Tahaa from Maupiti. Legend has it that Maupiti was chased away by them because of their outstanding beauty.

Bora Bora – Polynesia for all

Along with Tahiti, Bora Bora is certainly the most famous island in French Polynesia. It offers tourists the most ideal holiday conditions all year round, its beaches seem to have come straight out of a travel magazine and clubs, shops and restaurants are lined up close together in the city.

Numerous festivals and other events serve to introduce the traveler to the local culture.

In short: Bora Bora is the perfect destination for diving enthusiasts, party animals or a romantic holiday under palm trees.

Rangiroa – Paradise in the Pacific

East of the Society Islands lies the Tuamotu Archipelago, whose largest atoll is called Rangiroa (“Endless Skies”). Named after the clarity and expanse of the lagoon, travelers can now already guess what to expect.

The 80-kilometre-long ring is picturesquely situated in the blue of the Pacific and offers sand and palm trees, folklore and tradition. In addition to tourism, the inhabitants of the three villages live mainly from fishing and pearl fishing. The island also exports copra, the nutrient tissue from which coconut oil is extracted.

The island is particularly popular with divers. Coral reefs and colorful fish create a wonderful underwater world that hardly anyone wants to miss.

Raiatea – Cultural Center of Polynesia

The atoll of Raiatea is part of the Society Islands and shares a coral reef with its neighboring island of Tahaa. The capital of the island offers only a few sights.
The real treasure of the island is undoubtedly the cult site of Marae Taputapuatea. It is one of the most important in all of French Polynesia, but not the only one on the island.
The island is also a true pearl of the ocean for hikers and nature lovers. A rich endemic flora and a wide variety of landscapes come together to create a wonderful panorama.

Nuku Hiva – Nature, Culture and History

Nuku Hiva, like Raiatea, has several ceremonial platforms, as well as rock engravings and tiki statues.

Unique landscapes, such as the Vaipō Waterfall, which is one of the highest waterfalls in Polynesia at 350 meters, or the Taipivai Valley can also be found here.
Literature lovers take note: Scottish writer Robert Louis Stevenson’s favourite place is also located on the island. The island is also the setting for Herman Melville’s story Taipi and is mentioned in Jules Verne’s novel “Paris in the 20th Century”.

It should also be interesting that Nuku Hiva served as a deportation for a short time in the middle of the 19th century. For example, some revolutionaries of the June Uprising of 1848 were exiled here with their families.

Road trip through the “Sunshine State” Florida

The American state of Florida is also known as the “Sunshine State”. No wonder, because in the southeasternmost of the states, at least 300 days of sunshine per year can be expected. The best conditions for: Choose your desired location, rent a holiday home in Florida and then explore the desired destinations on the 170,000 square kilometre peninsula. Snow-white beaches, fabulous nature and exciting cities alternate. Which destinations are most worthwhile in Florida can be found here.

The Florida Keys: feel like you’re in the Caribbean

South of the Florida peninsula are the Florida Keys: an island chain of over 200 coral islands that stretches over a total length of 290 kilometers. The islands are connected by the Overseas Highway, which includes 42 bridges. The choice of palm-lined sandy beaches here is almost endless. Diving enthusiasts explore the underwater world of the Florida Keys and experience the only living coral barrier reef on the territory of the USA. Dry Tortugas National Park is a great place to dive through old shipwrecks. In addition, around 440 different species of fish cavort here. The Fort Jefferson, which dates back to the 19th century, is worth seeing. By boat or ferry, you can get to the island of Key West , where you can visit the former home of the writer Ernest Hemingway. Key West is also known for its colorful nightlife.

In the metropolis of Miami

Miami South Beach
South Beach, Image: Richard Cavalleri / shutterstock

Just a few kilometers from the Florida Keys is the metropolis of Miami. The South Beach beach on Ocean Drive is the first highlight: a lot of Hollywood movies have been filmed here. In Little Havana, you almost feel like you’re on the nearby island of Cuba. Sports fans are spoilt for choice in Miami. Both the NBA stars of the Miami Heat and the NFL team of the Miami Dolphins chase their respective balls here. In Miami Beach, you can relax on the beach or wander through the nearby Art Deco district as an architecture lover.

Active holidays in Fort Lauderdale

Fort Lauderdale Beach
Image: Mia2you / shutterstock

Fort Lauderdale is the eighth largest city in Florida, and one of the most beautiful. It is nicknamed the “Venice of America”. The city is crisscrossed by canals and invites you to boat and canoe tours. The city is also known for its huge flea markets. Many a treasure can be unearthed here. A visit to the largest drive-in cinema in the world is a special experience. There are 14 canvases to choose from. Culture lovers also get their money’s worth, there are several museums. Among other things, classic cars, modern art, exhibits from the maritime sector or valuable books are on display.

Meet flamingos in Everglades National Park

The tropical marshland, located in the south of Florida, is not only a UNESCO World Heritage Site, but has also been on the red list of endangered World Heritage Sites since 2010. Mahogany trees and swamp cypresses are grouped around a 60-kilometre-wide water vein, which in many places is only a few centimetres deep. Due to the moisture, the Everglades is teeming with mosquitoes, which is why mosquito repellent should be used. Equipped in this way, you can hike through the Shark Valley, where turtles, alligators and cormorants can be observed. In addition, there are the only wild flamingos in the USA and other animal species: for example, pumas, raccoons, pelicans, manatees and black bears.

In the world of amusement parks: Orlando

Orlando is located in the middle of Florida and is home to numerous theme parks. First and foremost Walt Disney World and Magic Kingdom. Here you can meet Mickey Mouse and Donald Duck and visit Disney’s fantasy worlds. Roller coasters provide action, and visitors can swim with dolphins at the Discovery Cove theme park. Orlando itself is also worth a visit. Hardly any other city in the region is greener. The city area has 17 parks. The most beautiful way to walk is through Lake Eola Park. The Orlando Magics, one of the best NBA teams, is based in the city. As a basketball fan, you should definitely attend a game. Those who like to go to the theatre also have a rich selection. For example, the Orlando Shakespeare Theater, the Mad Cow Theater and the Bob Carr Theater.

The city of the pelican: Saint Petersburg

Saint Petersburg, the city with around 250,000 inhabitants, is a port city with a special coat of arms: the pelican. The city is located on the western side of Florida, in Tampa Bay. Here, too, one snow-white beach follows the next. If you want more than just roasting in the sun, you’ll find the best beach bars in all of Florida here. The Pass-A-Grille district is a shopper’s paradise with individual boutiques and shops. It is also home to Saint Petersburg’s most popular restaurants. If you go on an extensive stroll through the city, you will discover a lot of cool graffiti, which has become a kind of folk art here.

In Fort de Soto Park, which has been combined from five small islands, dolphins can be seen. If you want, you can rent a boat there. The Dalí Museum houses the largest collection of Dalí artworks outside of Europe. 1300 graphics, almost 100 oil paintings and just as many drawings by the Spaniard are exhibited here. Sculptures and photographs are added. The Florida Holocaust Museum, which is housed in the Jewish Community Center, is also renowned. The Museum of Fine Arts houses the largest collection of photographs in Florida, with more than 10,000 exhibits.

Cape Coral – the Venice of Florida

In the United States, the nickname “Venice of Florida” is very common for the city of Cape Coral due to the many canals, but it may raise false expectations.

Cape Coral is a relatively young city in the southwest of the Sunshine State. It is located on the Gulf of Mexico in the vicinity of Fort Myers and was only created on the drawing board at the end of the 1950s. At that time, canals and roads were built through the fallow and pasture land that prevailed here and the first houses were built. Cape Coral is one of the largest cities in Florida with an area of around 298 km².

During the winter months, about 10,000 so-called “Snow Birds” are added to the almost 180,000 inhabitants. These are Americans and Canadians who come to Florida from the cold states in the north of the USA to spend the winter here. The climate in Cape Coral is extremely pleasant and temperatures rarely drop below 22° C during the day, even between December and February. During the summer months from May to October, the thermometer often shows values of 33° C, but due to the pleasant sea breeze it rarely gets extremely hot.

We recommend renting a vacation home in Cape Coral and exploring Florida from here. Cape Coral is a great starting point for discovering Florida’s south. If you want to experience a relaxing beach holiday, like water sports and boating, you will feel very comfortable here. Around the marina in the south of the village, you can choose between many inviting cafés and restaurants directly on the water.

Sights and attractions around Cape Coral

Aerial view of Cape Coral
View of Cape Coral, Image: Nadezda Murmakova / shutterstock

An absolutely worthwhile destination for nature lovers is the Four Mile Cove Ecological National Park. On the 365-hectare site, visitors can hike along the well-developed 2.7 km long trail and, with a bit of luck, see the native animals. The trail is 2.7 km long in total and leads through mangrove forests and to fantastic viewpoints. The relatively unvisited and quiet area is home to eagles, ibises and raccoons, among others. In the information centre of the protected area, you can get exciting background knowledge in advance. If you want, you can also rent a kayak and discover the landscape from the river.

For a short stop, we recommend the Butterfly House in Rotary Park, which regularly offers free guided tours. Especially for children, getting to know the different life phases of butterflies in this beautiful environment is very vivid and instructive.

The Cape Coral Military Museum may not be for everyone, but those who are passionate about historical uniforms and other Army items from different eras will certainly want to plan a visit.

The real attractions of Cape Coral, however, are the beaches and the boat tours to the offshore islands. The climate in southern Florida is suitable for a beach holiday all year round, as the average water temperature rarely falls below 25° C.

Around Cape Coral there are beaches for every taste. There are well-organized sections with sanitary facilities, snack bars and playgrounds, but also natural coasts. In general, the sand is white and wonderfully fine, so that nothing stands in the way of a relaxing holiday.

Cape Coral’s city beach is popular with tourists and locals alike. Families with small children in particular are happy about the gently sloping shore, where even the offspring can safely go into the water. On the jetty, which juts far out into the sea, numerous anglers always pursue their hobby, because the fish population here is extremely large. Romantics like to enjoy a cocktail in the evening, at sunset time, and listen to live music.

Explore the area around Cape Coral

The best way to travel to the area around Cape Coral is by renting a car. In this way, you will always discover beautiful spots for swimming and relaxing. Off the coast are hundreds of small islands with absolute dream beaches that can only be reached by boat.

Tours to Sanibel and Captiva Island are offered everywhere and you should definitely take at least one during a stay in this part of the USA. Strict building regulations on the islands prevent mass tourism here and so the beaches are often still immaculate and not lined with high hotel complexes.

Sanibel Island is a shell hunter’s paradise, as millions of them wash ashore every day. The Bailey Matthews Shell Museum exhibits the most impressive (there are 400 different species). A boat trip through the island world is definitely a must and a fantastic holiday experience for young and old. Very popular with all animal lovers are also the excursions to the natural habitats of the dolphins. Such observation tours are guaranteed to be remembered by all participants for a long time after the end of the holidays.

Although there is no shortage of beautiful natural swimming spots, a visit to a water park is usually at the top of the wish list for tourists with children for a successful holiday. To the north of Cape Coral is the Sun Splash Family Waterpark, which offers a variety of slides, lazy rivers and lots of different playground equipment.

Cape Coral is only separated from Fort Myers by the Caloosahatchee River, making it an ideal base for exploring other cities in the region. If you are looking for a destination for a relaxing beach holiday and at the same time want to experience a beautiful landscape as part of boat tours or hikes, you will certainly feel at home in Cape Coral.

Corona blues – With these tips and tricks you can drive away melancholy

The corona pandemic has been keeping us on our toes for more than a year. Curfews, closures and isolations are the order of the day. The home office is considered an unwritten law for the majority of the population and confines people even more to their own four walls. These are now increasingly losing their function as a place of refuge and are increasingly turning out to be personal prisons. Unfortunately, this situation will continue for a few more months. With the right mindset and activities, you can still make everyday life pleasant. In the following article, we will show you how to drive the gloomy thoughts out of your head!

Every year again: Corona is still present in 2021

The year 2020 was marked by fear and the hope of being able to resume normal life the following year. In 2021, it is now becoming clear that this will not be the case. Birthday parties, public events and long-distance travel are also cancelled this year. Especially those who like to travel suffer greatly from the regulations. If the last vacation had to be postponed indefinitely, there is currently no longer any question of spending a vacation abroad.

How to get your mind off things

Despite the pulsating pandemic, you should not hang your head. An end is in sight and we have already survived the worst. While you are longing for a mask-free time and absolute freedom and self-determination, you can make the wait easier for yourself with some tips and tricks.

Relive old memories

Your motivation to try out new hobbies is coming to an end, you’re fed up with sports and DIYs are just not your thing? How about rummaging through dusty boxes and chests and immortalizing the treasures you find for future generations? Because many households still own VHS cassettes, floppy disks or records that cannot be played back with our modern devices. Videos from childhood days, old holiday memories and moments from times long past can be made ready for use again with just a few tools and movements. For example, there is software for digitizing VHS cassettes. The video clips can be transferred to DVD with the program or saved as a video file in the computer. All that is necessary are:

  1. Video capture device, such as a USB device, TV tuner, or capture card
  2. VHS Video Recorder
  3. Analog Cables

Plan your next long-distance trip

Travelling with Corona
Traveling with Corona, Image: Viacheslav Lopatin / shutterstock

You can also use the excess time to find your next destination. Go in search of hidden places and cities that are away from the typical tourist strongholds. With the help of travel guides, specialized websites and travel blogs, you can already work out a round trip or find true insider tips. In addition, the advantages of Corona must also be seen! Due to the pandemic, expenses for leisure activities, restaurant visits and vacations have been eliminated for over a year. As a result, many people were able to accumulate a small fortune. These savings can be invested in an exceptionally long and spectacular journey. Have you ever wanted to fly over New York by helicopter or swim with dolphins? The upcoming trip is your opportunity to turn this dream into reality.

Bringing paradise into your own home

It is also possible to get into the holiday mood within your own four walls. Give your bathroom a maritime flair or bring exotic cultures directly into your own living room. There is no need to start major renovations or replace the furniture. With small changes, a big impact can be achieved!

With a new wall colour, for example, you can set a colour accent and influence the basic mood of the room. Move the furniture around and think about how you could still use the furnishings. For example, a dessert table and some cushions can suddenly become a small seat. Decoration can also make a decisive contribution to the ambience. Sort out and replace the items that have been obsolete a long time ago. Above all, decorative items with unusual colours and patterns, tropical plants and furnishings from foreign cultures can conjure up a foreign paradise from the well-known room. In addition, redecorating passes the time and is hellishly fun!

 

Destination Flanders: coast, culture and culinary delights

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Flanders is the northernmost of the three regions of Belgium and is also known as the Flemish Region. In the west, Flanders is bordered by the North Sea. The Flemish Region shares its northern and eastern borders with the Netherlands. So it is hardly surprising that the official language of Flanders is Dutch. Although the Belgian capital Brussels is a region in its own right, it is geographically located in the southern part of Flanders. Thus, a visit to the well-known EU city can be excellently combined with a holiday in Flanders.

When is the best time to travel to the Flemish Region of Belgium?

Flanders has a temperate, maritime climate. The Flemish winter is rainy and comparatively mild with temperatures averaging 5 to 10 degrees Celsius. The summer months in Flanders are usually pleasantly warm, but rarely hot. The water temperatures of the Belgian North Sea are cool and rarely reach more than 18 degrees Celsius, even in midsummer. A nice time to travel to Flanders is the sun-drenched early summer. In general, the months of May to September are recommended for a holiday in Flanders.

Holidays on Belgium’s North Sea coast

Wide sandy beaches and imposing dune landscapes adorn the almost 70 km long North Sea coast in western Belgium. Lifeguards monitor the Flemish beaches and promise passengers safe bathing in the sea. The Belgian North Sea coast can be explored particularly beautifully on a ride on the coastal railway. The longest tram line in the world runs from Knokke-Heist in the north of Flanders to Belgium’s western point to De Panne.

The seaside resort of De Panne, with its extensive sandy beach, is popular with active holidaymakers and families alike. De Panne is located in the middle of a 340-hectare dune area and offers excellent opportunities for walking, hiking, mountain biking and horseback riding. Among the busiest holiday resorts on the Belgian coast are Blankenberge and Ostend. Here, holidaymakers will find numerous restaurants, bars and leisure facilities. Lombardsijde, on the other hand, is more tranquil, where only a few international tourists spend their holidays.

Flanders’ most beautiful cities: Antwerp, Bruges and Ghent in brief

Antwerp, Belgium
The Brabo Fountain on the Grote Markt in Antwerp, Image: Mistervlad / shutterstock

The medieval port city of Antwerp is known as the world capital of diamonds. In the diamond district of Antwerp, which is only about 1 square kilometre in size, travellers can buy rough diamonds and fine jewellery at favourable conditions. In addition, Antwerp is known as the home of the Baroque painter Peter Paul Rubens. The Rubenhuis invites you to visit the former home and workplace of the world-famous painter and marvel at some of his most important masterpieces.

Four other works by Rubens can be admired in the Cathedral of Our Lady. In general, a visit to the Cathedral of Our Lady is highly recommended: The north tower of the church, built of sandstone, has been declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. It proudly rises 123 meters into the sky. Not far from the Church of Our Lady is the beer pub Het Elde Gebod, where guests can taste the different types of Belgian beer surrounded by figures of saints.

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

West Flanders’ capital Bruges is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and enchants its visitors with its medieval flair, cobblestone streets and canals that invite you to take boat trips. A magnificent view over the Flemish city is offered from the Belfry Tower, which is considered the symbol of Bruges. In the Chocolate Museum of Bruges, visitors can learn everything they need to know about the history of Belgian chocolate production. Art lovers are recommended to visit the Groeninge Museum . Here you will find impressive exhibits from the Baroque, Renaissance, Realism, Neoclassicism and modern times.

Ghent is considered one of the best insider tips for city trips in Europe. In the Middle Ages, the city was one of the most important metropolises in Europe. Today, Ghent is a lively student city. The landmark of Ghent is the Gravensteen moated castle. Interesting is the extensive collection of historical torture instruments that can be admired when visiting Gravensteen. Another well-known sight of Ghent is St. Bavo’s Cathedral. Ghent’s oldest parish church houses the famous Ghent winged altar, which depicts the worship of the Lamb of God. A must for street art fans is a visit to Ghent’s graffiti alley Werregarenstraat. Constantly changing works of art by creative spray artists can be discovered on the concrete walls of the 100-meter-long street.

Food and drink: Flemish specialities

Shared meals with family and friends are very important to the inhabitants of Flanders. Accordingly, a lot of emphasis is placed on high-quality preparation of the food. Even the famous Belgian fries are not just ordinary fast food, but are prepared tastefully and with a lot of love. The tasty Vlaamse Frites, as the fries are called in Flanders, are popular with locals and holidaymakers alike. Flemish cuisine is known for its hearty meat and fish dishes. The restaurants on the North Sea coast in particular also have tasty dishes with lobster, crabs, oysters and mussels on their menus. The Flemish national dish is the soup Waterzooi. Traditionally, this consists of soup vegetables and fish. Today, however, Waterzooi is also often prepared with chicken instead of fish. For lovers of desserts, the Flemish butter waffles are popular, which can be eaten as a dessert or with coffee.

Flanders is chocolate country. Belgian chocolates are popular all over the world, both because of their wide variety and because of their high quality. In addition to classic chocolate varieties, exotic varieties – for example with hemp seeds, dill or wasabi – can also be tasted in Flanders. Just like Belgian chocolate, Belgian beers have also made a name for themselves internationally. There are around 2000 different types of beer in Belgium, some of which contain exotic ingredients such as ginger or coriander and juniper berries.

Georgia – The diverse country in the Caucasus

Jörg Martin Dauscher has already visited many interesting countries in his life. Destinations that may not be at the top of everyone’s wish list. With his backpack, he undertook interesting tours through Macedonia, Albania and Ukraine, among other places.

He was also repeatedly drawn to Georgia. He has now written down how multifaceted and diverse the country on the Caucasus is in his book “111 Reasons to Love Georgia”.

In this interview, we talk to the former wine merchant about the advantages and culinary highlights of Georgia.

Jörg Martin Dauscher,
Jörg Martin Dauscher, Image: Phil Dera

Mr. Dauscher, why should you choose Tbilisi (Tbilisi) and not Paris, London or Rome when planning your next city trip?

So nothing against the cities mentioned, but Tbilisi has a similar amount to offer culturally, but is much more vital: the city is currently flourishing. To participate in it, or to experience it, that’s just fun! At the same time, the center of Tbilisi is quite clear and can be experienced on foot.

Which sights should not be missed by the Georgia traveler?

Nature, this tremendously diverse, exuberant nature – especially in the mountains, of course. So at least include a day hike, which also works quite well not far from Tbilisi, for example at Kazbegi or Stepantsminda.

In your opinion, how has tourism in Georgia changed in recent years?

It is exploding, more and more people have discovered the country for themselves – especially because of all the new airlines. Nevertheless, 98% of them are individual tourists who find their way to Georgia. The country is not easy to travel, but it is extremely convenient for people who want to get around on their own. Bring a lot of time, two weeks is the absolute minimum, better three! In July and August, it gets quite crowded in some places, so it’s better to target June and September.

What many people don’t know: Georgia has great and inexpensive ski resorts. You write in your book that Bakuriani is hopelessly overcrowded over New Year’s Eve. What is the best time to travel for winter sports enthusiasts?

Ski Gudauri Georgia
View of the Gudauri ski area, Image: Evgeny Eremeev / shutterstock

Both Gudauri and Mestia and the Tednuldi in Svaneti – although the latter is not really a ski resort in the European sense, it is simply too small and there are only a few lifts, but this makes up for the spectacular nature effortlessly. Bakuriani on New Year’s Eve doesn’t really have to be, but that subsides a week later. The main season in Gudauri is in January and February, but it is never crowded in the European sense. Only on weekends are there more people on the road, because that’s when Tbilisi approaches.

In your book, you name 111 reasons to love Georgia. From your point of view, what is THE most important reason to get to know the country and the culture?

Eieieiei. You write down 111 reasons and then you have to pick one! I can only answer that for myself, and for me the mountains predominate. The High Caucasus is simply phenomenally massive. Must see!

Finally, a culinary question: If you had the choice, which wine would you take? Georgian Mtsvane or Rhine-Hessian Riesling?

You’re asking the completely wrong person! In Georgia definitely the Mtsvane and it can also be the cheap one from the market. In Rheinhessen then the Riesling please, this mighty St. Georgenberg from Pfannebecker, for example, preferably with a few years of maturity!

111 Reasons to Love GeorgiaAbout the author:
JÖRG MARTIN DAUSCHER, born in Franconia in 1975, worked as a wine merchant in Berlin before he took a backpack and left the city. Since then, he has repeatedly been drawn to Georgia, where he lived in mountain villages for months. Dauscher loves the mountains and the sea, he is a passionate hiker and works as an author as well as a journalist and, if necessary, also as a barista, chef or sommelier.

You can order his book 111 Reasons to Love Georgia in specialist shops or on Amazon .

Relaxation by the sea – let’s go to Spain

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Spain’s coasts are every holidaymaker’s dream. There are so many small villages and towns that as a traveler you will be spoilt for choice for your dream destination. A holiday home in Spain by the sea is the perfect starting point for your holiday.

From Mallorca to Andalusia – here you will find relaxation

Spain is not one of the most popular travel destinations for Germans for nothing. In the summer months, millions of tourists cavort on the country’s beaches. Not only Spain’s capital Madrid, but also beautifully located seaside destinations are very popular. The following five destinations are particularly popular with German tourists and are visited again and again every year.

Alcúdia in Mallorca

Old Town Alcudia
The old town of Alcudia, Image: Mariasokphoto / shutterstock

Just over 20,000 inhabitants live on Alcúdia, one of the largest cities in Mallorca. To the north, the beautiful community has numerous sights, but also has a lot to offer in terms of beaches. Cleanliness and high water quality are very important here, so that families with children will also find the perfect holiday home.

Cadaqués in Catalonia

The small village of Cadaqúes is located just before the French border, directly on the Costa Brava. Well-known artists such as Pablo Picasso and Salvador Dali have spent their holidays here. Located in the heart of the Cap de Creus Natural Park, Cadaqués is the perfect destination for a quiet and tranquil holiday without stress and with small beach coves to relax.

Conil de la Frontera in Andalusia

Málaga, Andalusia
View of Málaga in Andalusia, Image: S-F / shutterstock

One of Spain’s hotspots is the small village of Conil de la Frontera, which is visited by numerous tourists every summer. Nevertheless, the kilometre-long sandy beaches are never overcrowded. Due to the extremely mild Mediterranean climate, it is never too warm here, so that families with small children will also find a perfect place to be.

Cudillero in Asturias

Located directly on the Cantabrian Sea is the small fishing village of Cudillero. Built on a small hillside, this village offers breathtaking views over the north coast of Spain. Cudillero is the perfect destination for a quiet holiday, as the party scene has a break here. Instead, the picturesque old town beckons with its beautiful, old Spanish buildings and extraordinary dishes directly from the coast. Whether hake or shark, in the fish restaurants you can feast and linger in the traditional way.

Peníscola in Valencia

Spain, Valencia
Valencia, Image: karnavalfoto / shutterstock

Located directly on the Spanish east coast, Peníscola is the destination for those interested in culture and beach vacationers. Whether it’s a visit to the Templar Castle or a shopping tour through dozens of small souvenir shops, there is something for every tourist here in Valencia. A visual highlight is the old town with the traditional Spanish white houses, which was built directly on a rock. A fantastic panorama, a breathtaking view and the perfect holiday for all those who want to experience the special flair of Spain.

The holiday apartment as a starting point

A holiday apartment is the perfect choice for a holiday in Spain. From here you can start activities, visit the beach and in the evening retreat with your family to your personal feel-good environment. Forget the hustle and bustle of the hotels, but cater for yourself with Spanish delicacies. Numerous holiday apartments are located directly on the coast, so that nothing stands in the way of going to the sea directly after breakfast.

Groningen – university city with historical flair

In the northeast of the Netherlands lies the authentic, often misunderstood idyll of Groningen, capital of the province of the same name and a time-honored educational location. The regional metropolis, which has a population of around 230,000, is criss-crossed by canals and connected by waterway to the Ems coast of the North Sea. About 70 kilometers to the east is the border with the Federal Republic of Germany with the cities of Leer and Papenburg. Amsterdam is about 180 kilometers to the southwest. The special geographical location helped Groningen to grow and prosperous. Today, the remarkable city is not only popular with the many students, but also leaves a lasting impression on numerous travelers.

Medieval centre

The first roots of a settlement in Groningen date back to 300 years BC. In the 7th century, the foundation stone for the urban core area was laid around the “Grote Markt”, the central large market square of the old town. Several archaeological investigations confirmed these findings. The first documentary mention dates back to the year 1040. It testifies to a donation by the then King Henry, who signed over the place to the Bishop of Utrecht , whereby the city was also granted the sovereign right of customs and mint.

As a result, Groningen developed into a trading and goods trading centre. The connections to England and the Baltic Sea countries prompted many merchants to settle in the city. As a later member of the Hanseatic League, a local jurisdiction and the creation of an urban infrastructure, Groningen became one of the pearls of the Dutch heyday.

St. Martin's Church, Groningen
View of the Martini Church, Image: Marc Venema / shutterstock

A touch of this era can still be felt today at the market in the old town. Immediately adjacent to it, the Martinikirche rises into the sky. Groningen’s oldest and tallest church was built between 1469 and 1482 from light brown-red sandstone. Its mighty tower once stood 127 meters before the wooden spire had to be replaced due to a fire. Another highlight of the Martinikirche is the organ built in 1692 by the famous Hamburg organ builder Arp Schnitger. At the fish market, the Aa Church is another sacred building.

The church building at the Akerkhof was built in the 15th century and also received a Schnitger organ in 1702. On the market side, the silhouette is complemented by the imposing columned building of the grain exchange, a UNESCO monument. Nearby, the Groningen town hall from 1810 shines in a similar construction. The inner-city area is surrounded by an extensive canal system, on the flanks of which the old warehouses can be admired.

Between tradition and modernity

Groningen offers travellers a real alternative to Amsterdam. The pulsating multicultural life constantly changes between tradition and modernity. The markets, shops and restaurants meet all the requirements of a versatile, urban way of life. Only on Monday mornings should you not be surprised about the emptiness in the pedestrian zones, because here the Dutch take it rather contemplative and, like in many other cities, extend the weekend.

Large parts of the city belong to cyclists. This circumstance is particularly noticeable in the area of the university, where thousands and thousands of two-wheelers almost flood the squares in front of it. Groningen has been committed to education since 1614 and has a university. The impressive main building for the approximately 50,000 students enrolled today dates back to 1909. Despite the sometimes hectic hustle and bustle, there are many places of tranquillity and relaxation in Groningen. These include, for example, the hidden small courtyards in the busy centre. In earlier times, these “Hofjes” offered accommodation for the poor or sick and are now admirable oases of reflection.

In order to discover the small farm grounds, visitors sometimes have to take a closer look. Or you can explore the special features of Groningen’s historical remnants in the form of an extremely interesting city tour. Behind walls lies the Prisenhof, another refuge of silence in the middle of the centre. The former seat of the Princes of Nassau has existed since the end of the 16th century and is landscaped with an enchanting rose and herb garden.

Bike Groningen
Explore bicycle-friendly Groningen with a two-seater, Image: SAKhanPhotography / shutterstock

Small paths lined with hedges and trees are one of the most beautiful examples of a hardly comparable Renaissance complex of this kind in the whole of the Netherlands. A little north of the city centre is the beautiful green area “Noorderplantsoen”, covered with small lakes. The water-rich park was created on a landscape created by glaciers, which was once the scene of historical battles and is now considered the leisure idyll of the people of Groningen, which is also the venue for many events.

Varied adventure programme

It is especially the diverse impressions and the contrasting versatility that make a lasting impression on the overall urban image of Groningen in the memories of visitors. In the new “Forum Groningen” there is such an aspect. The futuristic building complex is a meeting place for all generations, houses the “Storyworld Museum”, the library, several cinema halls, the “Smartlab”, a technology and workshop facility for children, but also for adults, as well as a number of restaurants. From the roof terrace, guests are rewarded with one of the most beautiful views over the whole of Groningen.

Close to the Central Station, whose historic hall is already a real sight, is the Groninger Museum. Built in 1994 under the aspect of a modern architectural orientation, the building’s perspective has provided space for controversial discussions since its opening. However, the interior design and the always sensational exhibitions make a visit an experience.

Groningen offers its visitors plenty of space for leisure activities of all kinds. Above all, the proximity to the Wadden Sea and the North Sea is appreciated. Travellers should definitely plan the Lauwersmeer National Park area in the northwest of the city as a destination. The area, which was diked in 1969, became one of the most beautiful nature reserves in the Netherlands over the course of the following years. Extensive hikes, bike or boat tours with observations of the unique flora and fauna are particularly popular with families with children. A little further inland, travellers can get an idea of how the locals of the region resisted the floods of the North Sea. The terp village of Niehove, built in a circle on hills, is an example of what was done to wrest a piece of land from the water. In the east of Groningen, on the border with Germany , lies the Bourtange fortress, which William of Orange had built at the end of the 16th century and which is now used as an extraordinary living space.