Egypt and the Red Sea offer numerous beautiful discoveries in terms of nature, landscape and culture. According to the holidaymakers there, it is no more dangerous at the typical diving locations on the Red Sea than at other holiday beaches that are predestined for diving. So pack your wetsuit and get to know Egypt’s diving world.
Egypt offers wonderful sandy beaches, pleasantly sunny temperatures and a relatively low price for dives and entire liveaboards. You can also rent diving equipment on site, only accessories for diving such as snorkel, fins and diving mask are recommended. Once the most important foundations for diving have been laid, it is important to choose the right place in Egypt for you and your diving needs. The best way to do this is to use the Internet or the travel agency to compare the dive tour operators with their special hotel facilities. Facts and figures for the diving license:
Minimum age of 14 years
at least one week on site
Costs are about 300 euros
physical fitness and fun and desire to try diving
The most recommended diving sites in the Red Sea
1. Dahab
The village, which until a few years ago was only known as a small, cute fishing village, became known for its “Blue Hole”. The blue hole, as it is translated, represents a particularly deep dive site for special (sporty) diving directly on the coast. Diving here is especially suitable for advanced divers. The clear water here reveals wonderful and extraordinary coral reefs.
2. Hurghada
Diving in Egypt, Image: yeshaya dinerstei / shutterstock Probably the most famous place in Egypt is Hurghada. In the holiday metropolis of 160,000 inhabitants, you can not only enjoy all-inclusive in large hotel complexes, but also dive very well. However, this area has one flaw: the reefs are partly already very battered and can hardly recover due to the many divers. Conservationists therefore see diving here on the Red Sea as very critical. However, there are other areas in the region, such as El Gouna and Safaga. The plus point here is that there are many diving schools in a small area, which is especially suitable for beginners. Usually the “new divers” take advantage of a diving tour, which is organized by the diving school. For this purpose, a whole day of diving is used, during which two to three underwater stops are made by boat. You are in a small group, dive, eat and enjoy together on the boat. Dolphins and turtles are not uncommon on these tours and are a spectacle for tourists.
3. The North of Egypt
The situation here is similar to that in Hurghada. Here, too, the reefs have been somewhat affected by heavy diving tourism in recent years. Despite everything, the reefs here also offer beautiful landscapes that are worth seeing. One example is Sharm el Sheikh. Here you can reach numerous coral reefs, which are home to many small sea creatures. A very famous underwater sight in this northern part of the country is a sunken freighter. The wreck, which bears the name HMS Thistlegorm, can be dived at a depth of 30m on the bottom of the Red Sea. Another highlight in Sharm el Sheikh is the Ras Mohammed National Park. Here you will find a large area of protected flora and fauna, as well as steep drop-offs, which make this dive site famous and unique.
4. Marsa Alam
The south, which includes the area around Marsa Alam , is less visited by divers than the north. Here, the reefs and diving spots are usually located directly at the hotel or on the beach, so that no boat trip is necessary.
The best time to travel and high season for rare underwater dwellers
A big advantage of Egypt is that the Red Sea offers a breathtaking clear view of 20-40m underwater almost all year round. Only the temperatures outside and under water vary greatly depending on the season. The European winter months are also the “coldest” months in Egypt. From December to February, there are still daytime temperatures of 17 – 27 degrees and water temperatures of 20 – 24 degrees. Rain is also extremely rare on the Red Sea. Despite the large tourism of recent years, you can discover up to 800 different species of fish in the reefs and underwater worlds of Egypt if you are lucky – on a guided tour you can also see dolphins, water cows and whale sharks. Sharks are quite common in the Red Sea, including black reef sharks, white reef sharks, tiger sharks or hammerhead sharks. Stingrays, moray eels and lionfish are also not uncommon here.
Interesting facts about the land above the water surface
Egypt is only one hour ahead and pays with Egyptian pounds. The cost of living there is low and there are also numerous bargains for tourists to discover at markets. The food and accommodation in a (luxurious) hotel are also relatively cheap. Egypt is, in addition to its great location on the Red Sea, famous for Sphinx, mummies and pyramids and for general historical history. Since the country is largely religiously Muslim, female tourists should adapt to this culture accordingly in order to avoid unwanted attention.
Two kilometers wide, 14 kilometers long, 6,200 inhabitants, 330,000 tourists every year, 2,200 beach chairs! These are the bare figures of the North Sea island of Norderney. But behind it lies an island with a lot of charm and even more tradition. “Norder neye Oog” – that was the original name of this spot on the Frisian doorstep. Which can be translated as “Norden’s new island”. If you head for Norderney as a holidaymaker, you usually use a ferry from Norddeich-Mole. Unless you prefer the transfer with one of the small planes stationed at Norderney Airport. And at the latest when the guests feel the wind constantly blowing over the white dunes, they have arrived on Norderney. In Germany’s first North Sea spa.
The lighthouse on Norderney, Image: IndustryAndTravel This island is proud to be a part of the Lower Saxony Wadden Sea National Park. After all, this region was ennobled by UNESCO in 2009 and received an entry in the World Heritage List. An impressive and unique ecosystem spreads around Norderney – a garden of the North Sea, which is under particularly intensive protection. “The sea is not a land – it is the experience of eternity”. With these words, the writer and Nobel Prize winner Thomas Mann once characterized the wondrous world of the Wadden Sea. Tides, wind and waves shape and sustain the landscape, and Norderney has long since taken on the obligation to preserve this biodiversity.
Norderney – The summer residence of the high nobility
Norderney has always been the destination of celebrities and received the title of a “North Sea spa” as early as 1797. For the royal Hanoverian nobility, the island became a popular summer residence in the early years of the 19th century, and those who wanted to afford something special on holiday on the nearby North German mainland followed the crowned heads and the captains of industry and enjoyed the spicy and invigorating air of this island as well as the flair of the former island village for some time. where the inhabitants were primarily engaged in fishing. Norderney gained importance with the Congress of Vienna in 1815, when East Frisia was added to the Kingdom of Hanover . From then on, many things changed on the island.
Accommodations on Norderney
Hotels for the upscale
Norderney is known for its high-quality hotels that offer luxury and first-class service. These hotels are often located in historic buildings and offer stunning views of the Wadden Sea or the North Sea. Here, guests can relax in luxurious rooms and suites, enjoy excellent restaurants and use the spa to pamper themselves.
Holiday apartments and holiday homes for flexibility
For travelers who want more independence, a holiday home or apartment on Norderney is a great option. Accommodating families and groups, these accommodations are equipped with fully equipped kitchens to accommodate self-catering. From cosy beach huts to spacious villas, there is a holiday apartment to suit every need and taste.
Camping and motorhome pitches for nature lovers
For those who are looking for closeness to nature, there are also campsites and motorhome pitches on Norderney. Here you can camp in the open air and enjoy the fresh North Sea air. Most campsites offer modern facilities such as sanitary buildings and electricity connections.
Norderney – In the footsteps of prominent guests
From then on, writers such as Theodor Fontane and Heinrich Heine, politicians such as Gustav Stresemann and Otto von Bismarck regularly met on Norderney during the warm summer months. Emperor Wilhelm I was even erected a monument on Bismarckstraße. For this purpose, 75 rock blocks from all parts of the former German Empire were piled up. And anyone strolling through the pretty village with its historic buildings today will get a vague impression of why the celebrities of days gone by enjoyed the summer retreat on Norderney with all their senses. The Kurhaus from 1836, where a casino is located today, has been preserved. And the “Royal Lodging House” with its classicist façade, which has since been converted into a hotel.
The sophisticated character is still present
View of Norderney, Image: flightpictures / shutterstock There is no question about it: Norderney deliberately stands out from its neighbours on the island. There they cherish the still present sophisticated character. While elsewhere a strict driving ban for cars has been issued and here and there even bicycles are frowned upon, Norderney accepts car traffic on the streets and paths of its 26 square kilometers between May and September. However, there is an absolute ban on vehicles in the vicinity of the protected area in the Grohdepolder – east of the lighthouse. This region, like the Südstrandpolder, is an Eldorado for ornithologists. 95 different bird species were counted – from the black-tailed godwit to the short-eared owl. Seals and grey seals are the inhabitants of the sea and can be observed on the sandbanks when they are pampered by the rays of the sun.
With the tourist train to the old mill
Bömmel’s tourist train is still a relic from an old time. It chauffeurs its guests from the rose garden to the mill, passing a picturesque dune landscape and the marina. The most striking building on the island is the lighthouse with its 54 meters height. If you are good on foot, climb 254 steps to the viewing platform and get an impressive panoramic view. The neighbours Juist, Borkum, Langeoog and Spiekeroog can be seen without binoculars. The windmill and the stone beacon, which served as a guide for sailors for generations, are also listed as historical monuments. The post office and the Conservation House, where the information centre is housed and which sees itself as the cultural centre of the island, date back to imperial times. Hikes through the Wadden Sea are still a highlight for guests who book their holiday home on Norderney year after year. An attraction for music enthusiasts is the annual “Summertime” event, where stars from pop, rock and classical music meet.
When the sun sends its first rays over the island, the haze of the early hour hangs over the waters of Samos. Very soon the outlines of the nearby Turkish mainland become recognizable in the east, and there are said to be people on Samos who have heard the crowing of Turkish roosters when the wind blows favorably. Asia is on the doorstep, but the green island on the periphery of Europe has always been part of ancient Greece in the eastern Aegean. Homer, the earliest poet of the West, is an important witness to this thesis, because he named Samos in the 42nd verse of his hymn to Apollo.
Samos offers fantastic beaches, Image: Milos Vucicevic / shutterstock After a long period of seclusion, Samos, like most Greek islands, was kissed awake by international tourism in the last century. With its impressive beaches, a first-class wine, several blue bays and villages, where you think one day the hand of time simply stopped. But Samos is more than just sun and sand, waves and wine. The magic of this island begins where the paved roads end and where they turn into bumpy paths. They are the paths through lovingly tended fruit and vegetable plantations on the slopes of the green mountains.
The famous Pythagorean theorem
In the hinterland, Samos has largely retained its originality. With the whisper of the shady mighty plane trees, the sweet scent of the vines and the spicy breath that wafts over from the atmospheric spruce groves. “The most beautiful thing is harmony,” Pythagoras, the greatest son of the island of Samos, dictated to his students in their textbooks. He was probably inspired by the loveliness of this landscape, which the restless wanderer considered his home throughout his life. He was a philosopher and mathematician and gave generations of students sleepless nights with his famous “Satz”. But Pythagoras solved a fundamental problem of mathematical philosophy with his knowledge of the square of the hypotenuse.
A monument for eternity
The pretty small town of Pythagorio on the bay of Tigani erected a monument to Pythagoras for eternity with this name. In 1955, the village was renamed. The once tranquil fishing port has changed in recent years and attracts young people among the holidaymakers in particular with its hits blaring from the loudspeakers of the bars. The only evidence of the splendour and decay of an ancient metropolis is the remains of the city wall. Archaeologists have been puzzling over Pythagorio for a long time where the legendary Acropolis once stood. Instead, the Metamorphosis Church not far from the castle hill, which was commissioned by the Greek freedom fighter Lykourgos Logothetis in 1824, is worth seeing.
The ingenious tunnel of Eupalinos
Potami beach on Samos, Image: Pawel Kazmierczak / shutterstock If you associate the Greek islands primarily with your interest in the traces of an important cultural-historical epoch, you should go into the depths of Samos. Above Pythagorio, near the cave church of the monastery of Panagia Spiliani, there is – a little hidden – the entrance to the impressive Eupalinos tunnel. It is an architectural masterpiece of antiquity and comes from an idea of the Eupalinos of Megara, who was praised as a brilliant engineer in his time. He completed this accessible water pipe on behalf of the tyrant Polycrates around 600 BC. In five years of construction, the two-storey plant was driven through the mountain from two sides over more than a thousand metres. The canal diverted the water from the plain of Agiades to Pythagorio, giving the people of the city a good chance of survival in the event of a siege. The tunnel is a tourist highlight on Samos.
Samos – an Eldorado for hikers
Karlovasi on Samos, Image: Heracles Kritikos / shutterstock Incidentally, the 45-kilometre-long and up to 20-kilometre-wide island on the Strait of Mykali is an Eldorado for hikers. For many years, Samos has enjoyed a special appreciation among those holidaymakers who are good on their feet and have sturdy shoes in their luggage. The elevations of Kerketea and Ampelos are the green lungs of the island. However, these regions were not spared from fires in the past, so it was a miracle that the frescoes of the 16th-century Katholikon in the monastery of Megali Panagia survived the conflagration unscathed and are still a destination for holidaymakers.
The romantic “Valley of the Nightingales”
The most beautiful beaches on the island are located on the southwest coast, at the foot of the 1,425-meter-high Kerketeus. At Psili Ammos and Ormos Marathokambos, fine sandy sections lead into a mostly weakly moving sea. Easy to reach from the tourist strongholds are the stony bays between the lively metropolis of Samos Town and Avlakia. The bathing bay below Kokkari is particularly picturesque. The best wine thrives in the mild climate of breezy Platanos with its romantic “Valley of the Nightingales”.
The holiday destination Greece enjoys great popularity among tourists with its extraordinary flair. If you are busy planning your holiday, you should consider a visit to the Greek island of Paros. The island belongs to the Cyclades archipelago in the Aegean Sea and is located in its center west of Naxos. Paros has an area of about 197 square kilometers, which is populated by about 15000 inhabitants. In the middle of the island, the two main peaks of the mountain region tower up. The 771-metre-high Profitis Ilias houses the monastery of Agios Minas on its north side, in the immediate vicinity of which the deposit for the valuable marble was located. South of the Profitis Ilias lies the only slightly lower summit of the Stroumbulas. Marble mining has a long tradition on the island and has also made the region internationally famous for its vineyards. Paros is one of Greece’s popular holiday destinations, with its idyllic sandy beaches and picturesque villages, and offers something for every type of tourist. The perfect stay is thus guaranteed.
Parikia is the main town of the island of Paros and is located directly on a bay that is also home to the ferry port. Not far from the harbour is the church of Panagia Ekatontapliana, the most famous sight of Paros. It is one of the most important early Christian buildings and has a Byzantine museum inside in addition to the baptismal font made of white marble. In the old town of Parikia, the remains of an old Venetian fortress from the 13th century can be visited. A visit to the Venetian Castro will reveal the remains of the island’s settlement, which date back to 2500 BC. If you don’t mind a short walk, you should climb to the top of the hill near the church of Agios Konstantinos. As a reward, a fantastic view of the sea beckons. The ancient cemetery, discovered in 1983, dates back to 700 BC and offers visitors interested in archaeology numerous exhibits in the attached museum. In the numerous small streets of Parikia there are many restaurants, cafés and shops that invite you to linger and browse. The nightlife of Paros takes place mainly in Parikia.
Naoussa
View of Naoussa, Image: dpVUE .images / shutterstock
To the north of Paros and 20 minutes from Parikia, Naoussa is a picturesque fishing village and the second largest town on the island. Built around the harbour, Naoussa exudes the idyllic charm of a Mediterranean fishing village and attracts many tourists in the summer months who want to take in the ambience first-hand. On a hill above Naoussa is the church of Panagia, one of the sights of the village. Due to the elevated position, there is a wonderful view of Naoussa and its bay from there and at the harbour of the fishing village is another sight of the island with an old castle. There are numerous beaches in the vicinity of Naoussa, which are best reached by boat from the port.
Lefkes
Right in the center of the island of Paros is the village of Lefkes, whose cathedral Agias Trias is visible from afar.
From her garden there is a beautiful view of the neighboring island of Naxos. A 1000-year-old Byzantine road paved with marble runs through the middle of the village.
Beaches
Kolimbithres Beach, Image: saiko3p / shutterstock
The island of Paros offers tourists an almost unmanageable number of beaches, all of which have their own character and appeal to all the preferences of holidaymakers. Directly opposite the port of Parikia are the beaches of Martselo and Krios, which are very spacious and have many bars. Here the focus is on tourism and there is the possibility of renting sun loungers and umbrellas. The main beach of the town of Parikia is Livadia, which can be divided into three sections due to its length. In the first part of the beach there are many bars and shops, in the spacious second section the traditional beach life prevails with sun loungers and umbrellas and in the last section everything is dedicated to water sports with the sailing school.
Opposite Naoussa, rock formations divide the coast into many small bays that form a retreat from the island’s tourist hotspots and with a bit of luck you will have them all to yourself. A little further in the same region is Monastiri Beach and is the place to go for holidaymakers who like to party. To this end, concerts and beach parties are regularly held there. Water sports enthusiasts or divers should make a note of the beach of Santa Maria. It is located in the windbreak between Paros and Naxos and thus offers ideal conditions for water sports.
It is framed by dunes and salt lakes, which round off the picturesque overall picture.
Golden Beach is also very popular with surfers and is the backdrop for the World Windsurfing Championship in July.
How to get to Paros
Paros has only one small airport, which is served exclusively by domestic flights. If you arrive by plane, you usually first stop in Athens, Santorini or Mykonos before reaching Paros airport with a local airline. However, the island of Paros is also excellent to reach by boat. In Piraeus , the ferries depart between seven and eight o’clock in the morning and reach the port of Paros after four to five hours. Tickets can be purchased online or directly at the port.
Paros, Greece: The 7 most important sights
Paros, one of the most beautiful islands in the Cyclades, offers a wonderful mix of picturesque villages, ancient landmarks, beaches and crystal clear waters.
Here are the seven must-see attractions on your visit to Paros.
1. Panagia Ekatontapiliani (Church of 100 Doors)
The Panagia Ekatontapiliani is one of the most important early Christian churches in Greece.
It was built in the 4th century and impresses with its Byzantine architecture.
According to legend, the church is said to have 100 doors, of which only 99 are visible.
2. Naoussa
The fishing village of Naoussa, in the north of Paros, is known for its picturesque white houses and narrow streets typical of the Cyclades.
Particularly worth seeing is the harbour, where fishing boats anchor, and the many tavernas serving fresh fish.
3. Kolymbithres Beach
Kolymbithres beach is famous for its unique rock formations, which have been formed by the erosion of granite over thousands of years.
The rocks divide the beach into small bays and provide a picturesque ambience for swimming and relaxing.
4. Parikia Old Town
Parikia, the capital of Paros, offers a charming old town with whitewashed houses, cobblestone streets and many small shops.
The Venetian castle and the famous Panagia Ekatontapiliani are the main attractions here.
5. Ancient Marathi Marble Quarries
Paros is famous for its marble, which has been mined since ancient times.
The ancient quarries of Marathi are a fascinating destination where visitors can explore the caves from which the valuable Parian marble was extracted.
6. Lefkes
Lefkes is a traditional mountain village in the interior of the island and was once the capital of Paros.
The village is known for its quiet streets, impressive views and the beautiful Agia Triada church.
7. Piso Livadi
Piso Livadi is a small, quiet harbour town on the east coast of Paros.
It offers a beautiful beach and many small tavernas on the water.
Ferries to the neighbouring islands also depart from here.
The 3 most important museums in Paros
1. Archaeological Museum of Paros
The Archaeological Museum of Paros houses a fascinating collection of artifacts from the island’s ancient history, including statues, tombs, and ceramics. Address: Kentrikos Dromos, Parikia, Paros Opening hours: Daily 8:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. (closed on Mondays) Admission: 2 EUR for adults
2. Byzantine Museum of Paros
This museum is located in Panagia Ekatontapiliani and displays Byzantine icons, liturgical objects, and other religious artifacts. Address: Panagia Ekatontapiliani, Parikia, Paros Opening hours: Daily 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Admission: 1 EUR for adults
3. Museum of Cycladic Folk Art in Lefkes
The Museum of Cycladic Folk Art in Lefkes displays traditional garments, handicrafts and objects from the everyday life of the Cycladic people. Address: Lefkes, Paros Opening hours: Daily 10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. Admission: 2 EUR for adults
Places to stay in Paros
Luxury Hotel: Yria Island Boutique Hotel & Spa
Located near Parasporos Beach, this 5-star luxury hotel offers luxurious rooms, a spa area and fine dining. Address: Parasporos Beach, Paros
4-star hotel: Senia Hotel
Located near Naoussa, Senia Hotel offers luxurious rooms with stunning sea views.
The hotel has an infinity pool and a first-class restaurant. Address: Naoussa, Paros
3-star hotel: Hotel Paros
Hotel Paros is a cozy hotel right by the sea in Parikia.
It offers simple but comfortable rooms and is close to the main tourist attractions. Address: Parikia, Paros
Budget Hotel: Villa Galini
This family-run hotel in Naoussa offers affordable, clean rooms within walking distance of the harbour and beaches. Address: Naoussa, Paros
Popular Restaurants in Paros
1. Siparos
Siparos is a fine dining restaurant by the sea near Naoussa that offers fresh seafood and modern Greek cuisine. Address: Santa Maria, Paros
2. Soso
Soso is a small, charming restaurant in Naoussa that serves a creative mix of traditional Greek and modern dishes. Address: Naoussa, Paros
3. Barbarossa
Located on Naoussa Harbour, Barbarossa is known for its fresh seafood and traditional Greek dishes.
A perfect place for dinner overlooking the harbour. Address: Naoussa, Paros
4. Levantis
Levantis is a family-run restaurant in Parikia that serves Mediterranean and Greek dishes with a modern twist.
The creative meze are particularly recommended. Address: Parikia, Paros
A wonderful place for a relaxing holiday is the Thai island of Koh Lanta. It is one of Siam’s most beautiful island paradises and offers its guests plenty of peace and relaxation. This makes the idyllic island ideal for travellers who want to spend their holidays away from the usual party tourism. The island of Koh Lanta enchants with its magnificent white sandy beaches, crystal clear waters and tropical palm trees. But older holidaymakers and families with children also get their money’s worth because of the quiet ambience of the island on Koh Lanta.
Koh Lanta is located in southern Thailand and is part of Krabi Province. The island is located at the transition between the Strait of Malacca and the Andaman Sea. Koh Lanta is a double island that is divided into Great Lanta (Lanta Yai) and Little Lanta (Lanta Noi). The two parts of the island are separated by a natural seawater path that reaches a width of one kilometre. Little Lanta is almost uninhabited. Tourist life takes place on Groß-Lanta.
Best time to visit
The best time to visit Koh Lanta is between December and April. During these months, it is high season on the Andaman Island. Temperatures will reach around 33 degrees Celsius and it will be mostly sunny and dry. The climate on Koh Lanta is tropical mild all year round with average temperatures between 28 and 32 degrees Celsius. The minimum temperatures fluctuate between 22 and 26 degrees Celsius. It is particularly beautiful here in the months of January and February. In general, the least rain falls between December and March. But even between May and July, you can spend a good holiday on the paradise island, even if the weather is no longer quite as optimal as in the months before. However, shorter rain showers are to be expected throughout the year. However, they are usually perceived as a pleasant cooling.
Getting to Koh Lanta
Koh Lanta offers fantastic beaches, Image: MrQLanTa / shutterstock Krabi International Airport is the nearest airport, about 75 kilometers from Koh Lanta. From Bangkok , the airport is served several times a day. From Krabi, you will continue by minivan, which will take about 90 minutes. Combined flight and ferry options are also offered. Trang Airport is also available as an alternative. Another option is to take a bus from Thailand’s capital Bangkok. The bus ride takes about 12 hours. There is a direct connection from Krabi to Koh Lanta via a car ferry. In the months of May to October, the car ferries are even the only way to get to the island, because it is not served by the boat ferries in the low season. On Koh Lanta itself there is the possibility to rent a scooter. This is an excellent way to take a closer look at the island.
Where to stay on Koh Lanta
Koh Lanta offers a wide range of accommodation, ranging from simple cabins to luxury hotels. If the holiday takes place in the high season, it is advisable to book the accommodation in good time.
Experience Koh Lanta’s paradisiacal beaches
Koh Lanta is wonderful for a beach holiday. Especially in the west of the island, visitors will find paradisiacal beaches with their holiday resorts. If you like it less busy, you can head to the south of the island and enjoy the pristine beaches away from the tourist hustle and bustle.
Klong Dao Beach
One of the most popular beaches on Koh Lanta is Klong Dao Beach. It is considered to be well developed for tourism. In its vicinity there are all kinds of tourist facilities such as family hotels with their own swimming pool, bungalows, restaurants and bars. Klong Dao Beach is also great for families with children. This makes the sand soft and the beach slopes flat. In addition, various beach sports such as beach volleyball can be practiced there.
Klong Nin Beach
One of the smaller beaches on Koh Lanta is Klong Nin Beach, which merges into Klong Hin Beach. It is about 15 kilometers from the small port town of Baan Saladan. Even in the high season, the Klong Nin Bach is rarely crowded. In addition to its sandy beach, it also offers some rocky sections. Both beaches are excellent for sunbathing, swimming and snorkeling.
Phra Ae Beach
Phra Ae Beach is also called Long Beach. It has a length of almost four kilometres. In the southern section it merges into Klong Dao Beach. The beach resembles a crescent moon in shape and invites you to take a long walk on the beach. There is also a beach promenade where some restaurants and bars invite you to take a detour. Other recommended beaches are Mai Pai Beach in the north, Ba Can Tiang Beach near the jungle and Kawkwang Beach, which is considered a cozy oasis of well-being and provides excellent photo opportunities.
Sights on Koh Lanta
Beach in Mu Ko Lanta National Park, Image: Victoria_Hunter / shutterstock A special attraction of Koh Lanta is the Mu Ko Lanta National Park. It is made up of Ko Lanta and several small islands. It protects rare animal and plant species. Attractions include the two karst caves Tiger Cave and Kai Mai Kaeo. There is also a sea nomad village. Also worth a visit are the lighthouse at the southern tip of Mu Ko Lanta, the Butterfly Garden with its butterflies, the Khlong Chak waterfall, which can be reached by elephant trekking or a hiking tour, as well as various temples and shrines.
Cairo, the largest city on the African continent, is said to look like an unwashed and disheveled girl to its visitors on a first visit. But anyone who has become accustomed to the maze of streets and the noise level in the bazaar understands why Cairo is referred to as the “mother of all cities”. Because this “disheveled girl” has many faces and here and there the lady is serious and graceful. For more than a thousand years, the Arab world has called the metropolis of millions “Al-Qahira” – the “victorious”. And so Cairo endures the daily traffic jams on the roads and the incessant onslaught of new citizens with astonishing composure.
According to the history books, it was in 969 that the Fatimids, an Ismaili dynasty, advanced into Egypt and brought the region under their rule. A certain caliph al-Muizz is said to have founded Cairo. In the period that followed, walls enclosed the city, and three of the once sixty gates have been preserved: Bab-el-Futuh and Bab-en-Nasr on the northern periphery, and Bab-es-Suwela in the south. Today, they serve tourists as photogenic testimonies to a bygone era. Cairo, however, became a World Heritage Site more because of the abundance of Islamic monuments that are crowded into an area of only four square kilometers in the city center.
El-Azhar Mosque – Site of Sunni Doctrine
Al Azhar Mosque, Image: Giovanni Zacchini / shutterstock
The El-Azhar mosque has also been preserved from the founding period of Cairo. It is one of the oldest Islamic places of worship in the world and is a showpiece in the city of a thousand minarets. The mosque has always had the status of an influential institution in Egyptian society, because it saw itself as a stronghold of Islamic teaching and a university for the study of Sunni theology. Cairo has numerous sights, and if you stroll north through the narrow street canyons as a visitor to this city, you will involuntarily come to one of the most magnificent legacies of the so-called Mameluke architecture. The extensive mausoleum is said to have been built in 1285 in just 13 months. The main hall is richly decorated with mosaics and valuable stucco and was once extended by a hospital, of which there is only a ruin today.
Beautiful residential palaces from the 14th century
The capital Cairo at night, Image: Kazzazm / shutterstock
It was thanks to the German Archaeological Institute that the historic fountain house with Koran school, the Abder-Rahman Katkhuda, presents itself in its old glory. The two-storey pavilion with its arcades is a real eye-catcher and forms a unit with the Beit Emir Bestak opposite, one of the most beautiful residential palaces from the 14th century. Today, this museum brings the history of Cairo closer to visitors. A walk through the old quarter of this metropolis is like a journey through time. With a taxi and a little patience in the everyday traffic chaos of Cairo, you can get to Zamalek and thus to the modern district of the city. The embassies of numerous countries have established themselves here. Mostly in villas from the Belle Epoque period. Here, in the north of the Nile island of Gezira, the members of the “upper ten thousand” of this city are also at home.
The history of Egypt comes alive in the museum
Of course, every visitor to Cairo should be guided by the Egyptian Museum. It sees itself as a kind of “treasure chest” of the country and as a symbol of the lost era of the pharaohs. No fewer than 150,000 exhibits, most of which were snatched from the barren Egyptian soil on the Nile, are housed in this museum. Here the history of the country comes alive, and it is not only the grave goods of the legendary young King Tutankhamun that are worth visiting. The extensive complex was opened in 1902, and the hundred halls extend over two floors. This museum is unparalleled in the world. Under the presidency of Anwar Sadat, the Hall of the Royal Mummies was closed for four years, but is now open again to interested parties from all over the world.
Cairo is also the starting point for cruises on the Nile and discovery trips to the unique archaeological sites in the Valley of the Kings. However, the great Sphinx with the Great Pyramid of Cheops rises out of the sand of the Egyptian desert virtually on the doorstep of the big city. This ensemble was probably built in the fourth dynasty under the rule of the Khafre dynasty around 2500 BC. It is located about twenty kilometers south of the center of Cairo and can be reached either by taxi or by metro. If you put yourself in the care of a guide at the destination, you will probably also learn why the Sphinx is missing its nose. Responsible for this misdeed is said to have been a sheikh named Mohammed Saim el-Dar in 1378.
Winding alleys and many merchants in the bazaar
Wondrous and superfluous things are offered in the Grand Bazaar of Cairo. He calls himself Khan-el-Khalili and it is said that you can get lost in his winding alleys from time to time. The bazaar is 1,500 meters long, and there are said to have been more than 12,000 shops here as early as the Middle Ages. Mainly souvenirs, jewellery and antiques are offered by the dealers here, but not everything that you think is an original turns out to be a cheap copy at home. If you want to experience authentic Cairo and a touch of the Orient, you should sit down in one of the countless parlours, try the spicy Arabic coffee and watch the locals smoking their hookah.
Beautiful fishing villages with traditional cobblestones and uniform brick and wooden houses in various shades of gray surrounded by idyllic nature, extensive white beaches, dunes and lighthouses: Nantucket, a small island of around 125 square kilometers in the US state of Massachusetts, is a place of longing. People who like the north from Sylt to Scandinavia love Nantucket, located south of Cape Cod and east of Martha’s Vineyard . The name of the island comes from a Native American language and means something like “the far away land”. In fact, although a fast and comfortable ferry connection connects Nantucket and the mainland, with a view to the rhythm of the windswept island, the striking buildings and the people who can call this paradisiacal island their home, Nantucket and the rest of America are worlds apart.
Nantucket – Meeting place for American celebrities
The Brant Point Lighthouse, Image: Marianne Campolongo / shutterstock In the midst of the colorful, often overcrowded and always striving for progress America, Nantucket embodies a New England, traditional, down-to-earth and at the same time elitist oasis with a European face, which has made a name for itself as a resort town, not least among American celebrities and wealthy families from the mainland. Every year, the elite of the American screenwriting industry arrives in Nantucket as part of the film festivals that always take place at the end of June, and there are also numerous celebrities among the tourists who are looking for a break from the stressful everyday life on the mainland on the small island. As a result, there are more than five times as many people on the island in summer as in winter. Accordingly, it is recommended, especially in the high season, to park the car on the mainland before crossing and to use the bicycle on the island to relieve traffic. Especially with pleasant late summer temperatures, the bike offers a great opportunity to explore the island. The idyllic, untouched nature is always just as far away as small, original villages or rather clusters of magnificent traditional, simple and stylish houses.
Fame and fortune in the capital of whaling
The upper main street in Nantucket, Image: John Santoro / shutterstock Nantucket, whose appearance is characterized by beach villas, white-painted garden fences and old glass lanterns, impressively, authentically and charmingly embodies the splendor of the island’s heyday at the beginning of the 19th century. In the past, the island gained national and international fame, especially through the whaling that originated from there. Thanks to the profitable trade in whale rat and oil, as well as the construction and maintenance of corresponding ships, whaling helped the island’s inhabitants to Nantucket’s economic heyday. From 1830 onwards, oil discoveries affected the sales of whale trans, which served as a lubricant and lamp fuel, and a serious major fire in 1846 as well as the Civil War and the Gold Rush had a catalytic effect on the incipient decline of Nantucket’s economy. As a result, the population shrank to a tenth within 30 years from 1840 to 1870. Due to the small population of around 10 thousand permanent residents combined with the income from tourism, the Nantucket County has the highest per capita income in Massachusetts and is now reconnecting with the wealth of the past. In addition to the more than 800 historic buildings in Nantucket Town, which date back to before the American Civil War about 150 years ago, the Whaling Museum on Bond Street bears witness to the wealth of the former “world capital of whaling”. There, for example, there is the opportunity to feel the baleen of these animals. Among the exhibits of the museums is a gigantic whale skeleton, but also the small boats with which the men with the harpoons went hunting and sometimes never returned, or whose fate was accompanied by the decline of the economy.
Versatile monotony of the “Gray Lady” surrounded by pure idyll
One of the most important reasons that allowed Nantucket to rehabilitate into a posh and elite area of New England was the mandated regulation for the construction of new homes and the resulting simplicity and uniformity in the appearance of the island. For the new building, the use of wood or brick is mandatory, and a spectrum of various shades of grey, including “Nantucket Grey” or “Quaker Grey”, also serves the colour scheme – and incidentally earned the island the nickname “Gray Lady. Nantucket Town embodies down-to-earthness due to the unspectacular architecture, which only seems monotonous at first glance. The small picture-book towns fit in perfectly with the landscapes towered over by lighthouses and covered with a variety of flowering plants.
Nantucket’s residents live a different rhythm
Not only the architecture, but also the inhabitants of the island itself elude the influences and trends of modernity: they get up early in the morning and rarely party until late at night. Guests of the island usually adapt to this rhythm quite quickly. The morning hours are used for a walk or fishing, followed by a leisurely stroll through the cobblestone streets of Nantucket or relaxing hours on the extensive beaches during the day. If the day is coming to an end, a bike tour (alternatively by bus) to the Madaket is recommended. On this wide sandy beach on the western tip of the island, you can watch the sunset wonderfully. https://youtu.be/OwZBkHgTdj4 It’s moments like these that make your stay in Nantucket so special. By the way, the “far away country” can be reached by ferry from Hyannis, Harwich Port, New Bedford (all Massachusetts) and New York within one to one and a half hours. Already at the beginning of the crossing, you withdraw from typical America and the fast pace of modernity and drive a little back into New England’s glamorous past. The months from May to October are recommended as an optimal time to travel, although especially in late summer the temperatures in Nantucket, in this idyll in the middle of fast-paced America, are particularly pleasant
When spectacle wearers go on a trip, their own visual aid should not be missing.
This should not be a great challenge for most people, after all, the glasses are on the nose most of the time anyway – nevertheless, there are some precautions to be taken for the vacation.
One pair of glasses is good, two pairs of glasses on holiday are better
Many spectacle wearers, especially those with higher diopters, will have more than just one pair of glasses anyway – and should therefore also pack at least one spare model.
Although the probability is low that the glasses will break or be lost on vacation, if they do, it is not surprising that this poses great challenges for spectacle wearers.
In the worst case, people with a severe visual impairment are no longer able to participate normally in everyday life or have to look for an ophthalmologist or optician on site, which is sometimes expensive – and even this is not so easy due to language barriers or production times.
So at least two visual aids should go with you on the trip, on the one hand the main glasses on the nose, and on the other hand the replacement model.
This at least ensures a safe view.
The second pair of glasses, regardless of whether you are traveling by plane or car, should of course be well protected in a robust case.
Furthermore, it is recommended to always store the second pair of glasses in a safe place – for example in the holiday apartment or hotel.
Appropriate aids, such as wet or dry glasses cleaning cloths, can also be packed.
Both are available locally in most countries in most countries but also on a short route.
Whether it’s a beach or skiing holiday, the right glasses must necessarily be accompanied by the
After the basic equipment has already been taken care of, it’s time for the third pair of glasses – more precisely, sunglasses or ski glasses, for example.
Prescription ski goggles are of course rather the exception, here it is more important to make sure that one of the ordinary glasses is shaped in such a way that it fits under your own ski goggles.
However, sunglasses should not be missing on vacation, most spectacle wearers either have prescription or they have corresponding clip-ons that can be attached to normal glasses.
Regardless of which solution is preferred, at least one pair of sunglasses should be taken with you when traveling – especially when it comes to Mediterranean climes, of course.
If you want to dive on vacation and are generally often out and about in the sea, outdoor pool or pool, you could also think about swimming or diving goggles.
This is because both chlorine and salt water are at the expense of the frame in the long run, and the coatings of sunglass lenses could also be successively detached by both.
The glasses for everyday use can cope with the occasional jump into the cool water, but they should not be permanently exposed to chlorine and salt water.
Also good to know: High temperatures can affect the frame and the glasses.
Therefore, glasses should not be left on the dashboard of the car in the blazing sun, for example.
Even on the beach, it is not recommended to lay them in the sand for obvious reasons.
After a visit to the beach, the glasses should also always be cleaned under running water first, otherwise you could rub the fine grains of sand into the frame or glass while cleaning and scratch both with them.
Egypt’s thousands of years of history, breathtaking landscapes, beautiful beaches and a warm culture enchant travelers from all over the world.
Anyone who immerses themselves in this fascinating country will experience a wealth of unforgettable impressions and adventures.
With the right preparation, every stay turns into an exciting experience.
Gateway to the Land of the Pharaohs: Entry Made Easy
Egypt’s entry regulations present themselves as a manageable hurdle for travelers.
EU citizens need a passport, which must be valid for at least six months upon entry.
Although theoretically possible, entering Egypt with an identity card has its pitfalls: it requires two biometric passport photos and leads to the issuance of a special entry card.
In addition, not all offices in Egypt accept the identity card as a sufficient document.
Therefore, the passport is recommended as the safest option.
The mandatory visa opens the gates to the empire of the pharaohs.
Travelers have three ways to obtain a visa:
1. Visa on arrival: At the airport, the entry visa for 25 US dollars or the equivalent euro amount beckons.
It grants a 30-day stay.
The fee is paid at official bank counters before passport control.
2. Advance application: If you shy away from queues at the airport, apply for the visa in advance.
The Egyptian embassy in Berlin and the consulates general in Frankfurt and Hamburg issue visas for 25 euros plus a 3 euro processing fee.
3. E-Visa: The online application via the E-Visa portal is particularly convenient.
Important: Visas issued on entry are usually for tourism purposes.
For other travel purposes, it is advisable to check with the responsible Egyptian mission abroad in advance.
With this information in your luggage, the entry procedure turns into a smooth start to your Egyptian adventure.
The clear regulations and various options for obtaining visas allow flexible travel planning.
So nothing stands in the way of immersing yourself in the fascinating world of the pharaohs.
Health in your luggage: Provision for carefree adventures
Although Egypt does not require compulsory vaccinations, a few precautionary ensure relaxed travel.
The standard vaccinations against tetanus, diphtheria and hepatitis A belong in the luggage – or rather in the organism.
For longer stays or intensive contact with the local population, protection against hepatitis B is also recommended. In rural areas, mosquito nets and insect repellents keep annoying pests away.
The metropolises and tourist centres such as Cairo, Hurghada and Sharm El Sheikh score points with good medical care.
Well-stocked pharmacies and often English-speaking staff are available.
A first-aid kit for aches and pains rounds off the health care.
Safety and respect: The key to the heart of Egypt
View of Cairo, Image: givaga / shutterstock In the popular tourist regions, Egypt presents itself as a safe travel destination.
Cities such as Cairo and Luxor as well as the seaside resorts on the Red Sea shine with increased police presence and well thought-out security precautions.
Respect for local customs opens doors and hearts.
In conservative areas and religious sites, restraint pays off.
Rural regions particularly appreciate respectful clothing.
The proverbial Egyptian warmth rewards travelers who come up with a friendly “Shukran” (thank you) or “Salam Aleikum” (peace be upon you).
This creates an enriching cultural exchange that makes the stay a celebration of encounters.
Finance in the land of the Pharaohs: Enjoy cheaply
The Egyptian pound (EGP) rules the financial world on the Nile.
Hotels, restaurants and larger shops accept credit cards without any problems.
Nevertheless, it is always advisable to stock up on cash in small denominations – especially in lively markets and small shops.
ATMs in cities and tourist resorts spit out cash without any problems.
The low cost of living puts a smile on the faces of budget-conscious travelers.
Delicious meals, fascinating excursions and handmade souvenirs lure you in at moderate prices.
This makes the stay a pleasure that is easy on the holiday budget.
Clothing for Sons of the Desert and Pyramid Princesses
Egypt’s climate is varied, but is mostly warm and dry.
The summer months bring heat to desert areas and the south.
Winter attracts with mild temperatures, which is perfect for extended discovery tours.
Lightweight, breathable clothing made of natural fibres such as cotton ensures a sense of well-being.
In the summer heat, a sun hat, sunglasses and a high sun protection factor protect you from the intense sunlight.
Attention: Mosques and other sanctuaries welcome visitors with covered shoulders and knees.
In the seaside resorts such as Hurghada and Sharm El Sheikh, on the other hand, there is a casual beach atmosphere.
Culinary delights: A feast for the senses
Egyptian cuisine spoils with a variety of flavors and textures.
Fresh ingredients, spicy spices and traditional preparation methods characterize the dishes.
Young and old alike can indulge in classics such as crispy falafel and the hearty national dish Koshari.
Coasts attract freshly caught fish specialties in all variations.
Vegetarians will also find a rich selection of delicious dishes.
To avoid an unpleasant stomach rumble, including frequent trips to the toilet, it is better not to drink tap water.
Bottled water as well as hibiscus tea and freshly squeezed juices are better as refreshments on hot days.
Well prepared and with open eyes on site, the trip to Egypt will be a carefree trip with a high memory value.
Anyone who has passed the southern periphery of Naples will get closer and closer to their holiday dream. Hardly any other region of Italy has retained its original charm to such an extent as Cilento at the foot of the Apennines with its unique national park, the second largest in the country. It can boast of having been included in the UNESCO World Heritage List. Cilento looks back on an eventful history. It can be seen, among other things, in the ruins from Roman and Greek times.
The Tyrrhenian Sea is the natural barrier of the Campania region, and the rugged mountains, picturesque bays, green forests and babbling brooks inspired the people of Rome in ancient times to give this enchanting region an extraordinary name: Campania felix – the happy landscape. And to this day, the former character of Cilento has been preserved. If you enjoy your holiday here, you can look forward to nature that always presents itself in a new guise. It is the diversity of the landscape that distinguishes this “happy” region at the southern tip of Italy.
Picturesque and sleepy villages
Ruins in the town of Velia, Image: Stefano_Valeri / shutterstock
Hikers in the Cilento area rave about the dense oak and chestnut forests that have become a feature of Campania. The picturesque villages sometimes duck under the protection of striking rocks, and the fishing villages by the sea seem as if international tourism has never stopped by here. Some seem sleepy at first glance, but the bars and restaurants have gained an excellent reputation almost everywhere. Pasta creations and, of course, pizza are on all trattoria menus, and at the foot of the magnificent cliffs there are always bays that invite you to swim, surf, dive and snorkel.
Roman and Greek influences in Cilento
Where the beaches are washed by mostly calm waves, the shore zones have been given a special name: Mythological Coast. Legend has it that none other than the legendary Odysseus was passionate about this part of Italy, and the culinary influences of Roman and Greek cuisine can be found in many of the dishes on offer: white figs, lime cakes, mushrooms and truffles from the woods and, of course, the fruits of the sea. The traditional cuisine of the south has a firm place in the Cilento region and is deeply rooted in the consciousness of gourmets.
Temple in honour of Hera and Neptune
Cerere Temple, archaeological site of Paestum, Image: Gimas / shutterstock
Archaeological sites can be found in the Vallo di Diano: Certosa di Padula, Velia and Paestum. They also received a place on UNESCO’s World Heritage List. The remains of the settlement from Greek times can be seen there. The impressive Padula Charterhouse is also worth seeing. Paestum is one of the most important complexes of Magna Graecia and was once built in honor of Poseidon. The Archaeological Museum houses numerous exhibits from that period of Italy’s history. Of the three Doric temples, the Hera Temple from 530 BC stands out. Scientists argue about whether it was dedicated to Hera or Neptune. The Porta Rosa is the most photogenic monument of the Acropolis.
Cilento – Flora and fauna in the large national park
Friends of flora and fauna will get their money’s worth in Cilento, especially in the large national park. No less than 1,800 mostly wild plant species were listed here. The park is apparently an ideal habitat for lush vegetation, and it is also home to numerous animals. On the 180,000-hectare site, there are huge forests and rushing rivers as well as deep gorges and numerous monasteries. Paragliders can be found there – but also the sympathizers of an almost always nerve-tickling rafting on the wild waters of the rivers. The Cilento National Park also offers excursions with horses and exciting bike tours. And high above the forests, the peregrine falcons typical of the region almost always circle.
Stalactite caves and picturesque seaside resorts
View of the municipality of Castellabate, Image: Anna Biancoloto / shutterstock
The Grotta dei Pertosa is one of the most powerful and worth seeing stalactite caves in Italy. Excursion boats depart from numerous ports in the region to the azure caves of Cilento. One of the seaside resorts of Cilento favoured by tourists is the town of Palinuro, which also owes its fame to the many caves in the area. But also its enchanting stretches of beach. The Baia del Buondormire is probably the most romantic beach on the entire coast. It convinces with its clean and crystal clear water and its good infrastructure with nice bars and cafes. Also in Palinuro there are some testimonies of the ancient past. A colonial Greek settlement was once built here. If you are travelling by car in the Cilento region, you should not miss the striking Cape Palinuro. This point plays an important role in Greek mythology.
