All about travel

Holidays in the Eifel – Take a deep breath and let your mind wander

Germany

PatrickJullien

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30. May 2025

Holidays in the Eifel – Take a deep breath and let your mind wander

The Eifel low mountain range region is located in the German states of Rhineland-Palatinate and North Rhine-Westphalia. Their foothills even extend into areas of Belgium and Luxembourg, where they bear the name Ardennes. The northern part of the “German” Eifel lies near the former imperial city of Aachen, is flanked in the south by Trier and the Moselle wine region, and stretches in the eastern part to Koblenz in the Rhine Valley. Extensive nature, mountains, rivers and streams, historic castles and palaces (for example Eltz Castle or Ehrenbreitstein Fortress), viticulture and much more – let yourself be enchanted by the diversity of the Eifel!

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Rent a holiday home or holiday apartment in the Eifel on Fewostay.de of private individuals

If you want to spend the night cheaply on holiday in the Eifel, you should book a holiday apartment or rent a holiday home in the Eifel. Private landlords offer inexpensive holiday homes and apartments in the Eifel for rent on fewostay.de for relaxing holidays. In the holiday home portal you will find numerous accommodations in the Eifel with lots of pictures and information on how and where to book best for your needs. Whether you choose a holiday apartment in the Eifel as accommodation or rent a domicile from the booking category “Holiday home Eifel” is up to you.

Hiking in the Eifel National Park

A holiday in the Eifel promises a variety of sights: The Eifel National Park is a large nature reserve, characterised by typical Central European flora and fauna. Many wild animals, such as eagle owls, red deer and wildcats, cavort in the characteristic beech forests, along rivers and valleys. The national park is located in the north of the Eifel between Nideggen, Gemünd in the south and in the southwest on the German-Belgian border. The Traumpfade hiking trails in the region invite you to hike.

Discover the Vulkaneifel Nature and Geopark

Discover the Volcanic Eifel, Image: Wolfgang Zwanzger / shutterstock

To the west is the Vulkaneifel Nature and Geopark, which stretches roughly from Ulmen in the east to Gerolstein in the west and from Wittlich in the south to Hillesheim in the north. The western part is part of the UNESCO Global Geoparks (Geopark Vulkaneifel), the eastern part (Laacher See) is not. Volcanoes were still active here about 10,000 years ago, which has shaped the landscape with numerous maars (e.g. the Daun maars), mineral and carbonic acid springs and lava flows. At around 700 m above sea level, the Ernstberg is the highest mountain in the nature park and the second highest in the entire Eifel after the Hohe Acht.

The High Fens-Eifel Nature Park is located in the area around the towns of Simmerath, Monschau, Roetgen, Stolberg and Langerwehe. In the middle of the nature park lies the former Vogelsang military training area and the extended area of the former Nazi Ordensburg Vogelsang on the Erpenscheid mountain. The southern part is called the Schnee-Eifel, where the Schwarzer Mann and the Wolfsschlucht are well-known ski resorts. In the northwest, the South Eifel borders here.

Local recreation area Rursee & Urft Dam

The Rursee, located on the Kermeter between the district of Düren and the greater Aachen area, is a reservoir and an important local recreation area for the region and tourism. According to the schedule, the excursion boats Stella Maris and Aachen run here. Sailors, rowers, surfers and canoeists can enjoy water sports in the Rur reservoir. In the southeast it borders on the Urft Dam of the town of Schleide.

Explore the beer town of Bitburg, Bad Münstereifel and Nürburg

If you like to go on city trips, you can’t avoid visiting the brand and experience world of the well-known Bitburger Brewery in Bitburg in the South Eifel. In Bad Münstereifel you can immerse yourself in medieval history. The Nürburg , which is well worth seeing, is not only known to racing fans for the Nürburgring, but also for the castle of the same name.

Places of interest in the Eifel: Geyser Wallender Born, Irreler Waterfalls and Devil’s Gorge

Of course, there is no shortage of natural spectacles and other attractions that you can explore from your holiday apartment in the Eifel: The Wallender Born geyser is an active cold-water geyser in the village of Wallenborn. Or visit the Irreler Waterfalls and Devil’s Gorge on the lower reaches of the Prüm. There is something for everyone in the Eifel, whether in the Kakushöhle, the waterfall of Dreimühlen, the Mechernich Mining Museum, the Benedictine Abbey Maria Laach on Lake Laach or the Terra Vulcania adventure world in Mayen. Hellenthal is known for its game reserve with a bird of prey station, the Olef Dam and the Wohlfahrt Pit Visitor Mine.

Discover the Eifel now – it is worth discovering the low mountain range region in Rhineland-Palatinate and North Rhine-Westphalia. For overnight stays you will find a fantastic accommodation in the Eifel on Fewostay.

Alaska – The Wild North

North America

PatrickJullien

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30. May 2025

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In Alaska, the wilderness is majestic and partly still untouched. With two-thirds of the area under nature conservation, this is no wonder. Mountains, canyons, lakes, dense forests and glaciers line up in an impressive way. North America’s highest mountain is also located within the borders of Alaska. The fauna also flourishes in an impressive way and invites you to observe wildlife.

Despite the enormous size of the country, only about 730,000 people live in Alaska and about half of them in Anchorage. The capital Juneau, on the other hand, has only around 30,000 inhabitants.

Alaska is the largest state in North America, which is five times the size of Germany, and is divided into five regions with different landscapes and climates, with the south and the Alaska Panhandle being somewhat milder due to the proximity to the sea.
On average, however, 270 rainy days are expected per year.

In summer, temperatures range from 16° C to 32° C, although the temperature can drop to 4° C at night. Autumn is already clearly noticeable in August in these latitudes and the days become noticeably shorter. The winter is correspondingly cold with an average low of -13°C in January.

Alaska’s nature

Glacier Bay National Park, Alaska — Glacier Bay National Park, Image: Maridav / shutterstock

Particularly impressive in Alaska are certainly fauna and flora. Both are still largely untouched and really wild. For nature lovers, the country is the ideal destination.
With 17 national parks, Alaska has more than any other U.S. state. Many of them were created between 1978 and 1980.

Above all, of course, when you think of Alaska, you think of bears, moose, eagles, otters, mountain goats, orcas and a variety of fish, especially salmon. A wilderness that is balanced, mutually regulating and also complementing each other.

Sea lions also perch on the rocks off the coast and are an impressive sight. They are also very interested in the annual salmon migration. More than 5000 salmon rivers lead from the sea to the interior of the country, where they are already awaited by bears, but also by anglers.

In summer, around 140 million seabirds also migrate to Alaska to take part in the summer feast, which consists primarily of mussels and limpets rather than fish.

Of course, friends of the ice are also catered for: the country’s 100,000 glaciers make up only 3% of the ground area, but are truly impressive. Many of them are home to stunning ice caves.

Alaska’s Cultures

The history of Alaska goes back a long way. About 10,000 to 16,000 years ago, the country was the first part of America to be settled by nomads from Asia who came over the Bering Bridge. It was not until the 17th century that the first Europeans came from Russia and in 1867 Alaska was purchased by the US government.

The official language in Alaska today is not only English, but also 20 indigenous American languages. According to the 2010 census, about 15% of the inhabitants have indigenous ancestry. Many of the indigenous people still maintain a traditional way of life and some of the settlements are also open to visitors.

It is important to the First Nations to preserve their culture and to inform about it.
At the Alaska Native Heritage Center in Anchorage, you can also get information about all indigenous cultures. A distinction is usually made between 5 main indigenous groups, which are divided according to the geography of the country.

Of course, the Russians have also left their mark on the country’s culture. Today, Russian is hardly spoken and there are almost no Russian institutions left in Alaska, but the church is Russia’s heritage. Today, about 50,000 people are still part of the Russian Orthodox Church. The Russian influence is also noticeable in the architecture of the churches with the onion domes. The services are often not only held in one language, but also different indigenous languages are used and even Christian songs are sung in Yupik or Tlingit, for example.

A trip to Alaska

The country can be a real eye-opener. But when the best time to travel is depends heavily on the preferences of the traveler. Summer from June to the end of August is undoubtedly the best time to enjoy nature. So if you are interested in bear-watching, kayak tours or fishing, it is best to go in the warm months. At the beginning of September, the trees finally turn in the strongest shades of red and yellow and the so-called Indian Summer begins. At this time it is exceptionally warm and dry, but the nights are already harbingers of winter.

From mid-February to about mid-April, Alaska is a paradise for skiing and dog sledding, and of course, don’t forget the tremendous beauty of the Northern Lights on these sun-poor days. Festivals can also be a special highlight. In October, Sitka hosts the Alaska Day Festival for three days, which commemorates the handover of the land to the United States and on Seward Day, which is always celebrated on the last Monday in March, the purchase of Alaska by the USA is celebrated and history is resurrected in several festivals throughout the country.
Between May and August, there are many other festivals, of which the Alaska State Fair is undoubtedly the largest, but there are also get-togethers in winter, such as the Fur Rendezvous Festival, which is dedicated to all the joys of winter.

Constance, the beautiful city on Lake Constance

Germany

PatrickJullien

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30. May 2025

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Constance, the beautiful city on Lake Constance

Constance is the largest city on Lake Constance. It convinces not only with its unique location on Lake Constance, but also with a historic old town and, of course, with the famous island of Mainau. The interesting city and its surroundings attract many overnight tourists as well as day visitors all year round.

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Arrival and accommodation

Constance can be reached quickly and easily by car from all directions via federal roads or motorways. It is also no problem to travel to Constance by train. A well-developed rail network brings visitors from all cities safely and quickly to their destinations. In the city and around the city, the S-Bahn or the approximately 15 bus lines in Constance offer a pleasant transfer. If you like it sporty, you can reach and explore the city on 104 kilometres of well-developed cycle paths. City travellers and holidaymakers do not need to worry about accommodation.

In the largest city of the four-country region on Lake Constance, there are many noble 5 star hotels, simple, nice bed and breakfasts, family-friendly holiday flats and apartments. If you prefer it rustic, you can rent one of the campsites in the suburbs of Constance. An insider tip is the Klausenhorn campsite. Here, guests can spend the night comfortably in a camping barrel in the immediate vicinity of Lake Constance. An unparalleled romantic experience.

Sights of Konstanz

Stadtgarten Konstanz — Stadtgarten of Constance, Image: Haidamac / shutterstock

Of course, there are many sights to marvel at in the city on Lake Constance. Here are just a few of them: The Romanesque cathedral with its 78-metre-high church tower in the historic district of Niederburg still characterises the cityscape of Constance today. The gigantic building is known for its different architectural styles. The façade is painted with magnificent frescoes. Inside, 193 steps lead to a platform. Here there is a unique view over the city. If you dare and have enough breath, you can climb an additional 52 steps. Balconies await you there, which of course also promise a wonderful view over the city.

Another landmark of the city is the statue of Imperia. The impressive monument is located in the harbour of Constance. The Imperia, with its 9 meters high and a weight of 18 tons, is almost reminiscent of a Statue of Liberty. It was created by the artist Peter Lenk and is intended to be a satirical depiction of the Council of Constance. An impressive statue worth seeing with a lot of history.

The harbour itself is also a place where tourists like to linger and enjoy the beautiful views of the majestic mountains and Lake Constance. A wonderful promenade invites you to stroll and stroll in every season. In the summer months, artisans offer souvenirs and other decorative items in their stalls. In the restaurants and cosy cafés that line the path of the promenade, you can take a break with food and drink. A boat trip on a catamaran or one of the excursion steamers on Lake Constance is also recommended. Here there are wonderful views of the city from the lake side.

On rainy days, guests of the city are well worth a visit to one of the many museums and galleries. For example, the Rosgarten Museum is an interesting place to get to know the rich collections of the city of Constance and its history. The museum was founded in 1870. For graphic and photography fans, the Galerie Turm zur Katz is an exciting, interesting place. The tower in the heart of the city offers changing exhibitions with photographs, graphics and modern posters on five floors. With art and culture, a rainy day can thus make an ideal contribution to relaxation.

The flower island of Mainau and pure nature

Lake Constance, Mainau — The flower island of Mainau, Image: LENS-68 / shutterstock

A visit to the third largest island of Mainau should not be missed on a visit to Constance. At any time, the flower island in Lake Constance is the most popular excursion destination in the area. Not only for nature lovers the sight of tons of tulips in spring is worth seeing and admiring. In summer, fragrant roses and summer flowers replace the early blooming splendour. In the cooler season, there is a charming winter garden to marvel at. The Butterfly House and the Palm House on the island of Mainau are also tourist magnets. If children are involved, the little ones can let off steam on one of the three adventure playgrounds. Throughout the year, there are various events and interesting exhibitions on the island. Travel groups or clubs are also welcome on the island of Mainau and its gastronomy.

If you want even more nature, you can make your way to the suburbs of Constance. The motto is: “Constancy in the countryside”. Several suburbs such as Dettingen-Wallhausen, Dingelsdorf or Litzelstetten offer holidaymakers a well-developed and signposted network of cycling or hiking trails. The paths lead along the lakeshore, through meadows and fields to the Bodanrück peninsula. The nature reserves are highlights with healthy air and enchanting landscapes.

The Sporades island of Skopelos

Greece

PatrickJullien

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30. May 2025

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The Greek Sporades, with the multitude of associated islands, has become a real insider tip among holidaymakers in the country on the Mediterranean. Many of the islands in the region are still hardly developed for tourism compared to Crete or Mykonos and offer a relaxing and adventurous holiday in the sight of largely untouched nature. All the advantages of a holiday in Greece – beautiful beaches, great weather, impressive historical sights and warm people – combine with an almost unchanged insight into the world of Greece proper. This is especially true for the island of Skopelos.

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Barely touched island in the northern Sporades

The island gained a certain notoriety through the film “Mamma Mia“, which was filmed here in the mid-2000s and already gave a brief hint of what can be discovered on the island. Many people have fallen in love with the small narrow towns and the beautiful nature of the island, which is just 96 square kilometers in size and yet is one of the most beautiful islands Greece has to offer.

Even on the first visit to the island, the white facades in the capital of the same name are striking, as they are also known from other Greek islands such as Mykonos or Santorini. They can also be found here in the classic Greek style and ensure that the city can be seen from afar from the boat. This is also the common way to come to visit the island. The main town of the island is also the center for visitors and tourists. Here you will find most of the few hotels on the island and especially the area around the harbor attracts with shops and restaurants. Most visitors are drawn to the old town, where some testimonies of the island’s long history can still be found.

What should you see while visiting Skopelos?

Panormos Beach on Skopelos — Panormos beach on Skopelos, Image: leoks / shutterstock

On the island, nature mixes with the original buildings in a wondrous way and at every corner you can feel how long the history of the island goes back. One of the most beautiful places is Alonnisos. The small coastal town not only attracts with its authentic cuisine in the tavernas, but also has some of the historic buildings in the middle of the city center, where they merge directly into the new buildings with the white facades. From the main town you can be in the village within an hour, which makes it a perfect destination.

The real sights of the island, however, are of course found in nature. Unlike many other popular places in Greece, Skopelos has hardly changed over time. The few hotels, holiday homes and tourist facilities on the island have been built mainly in the main town. The actual nature of the island is therefore almost untouched and offers a great insight into the original wilderness of the region and the unique flora and fauna that can only be found on the Mediterranean islands of Greece and Turkey .

Especially in the heart of the island you can find some of the most beautiful forests that can be found on the Greek islands. It is not uncommon for guided tours to set off from the main towns into the untouched nature and show visitors how people once lived here on the island and what special features nature still has to offer on the island. This often includes a visit to Agios Ioannis sto Kastri. The church, which is particularly famous from the aforementioned film, was built on a rock right on the coast and offers an excellent motif for photos and memories of visiting the island.

View of Panagitsa Tou Pirgou Church — View of the church Panagitsa Tou Pirgou , Image: Tomasz Czajkowski / shutterstock

The real highlight of the island, however, are of course the many beaches. After a long walk across the island, the Mediterranean temperatures simply invite you to lie down on the beach, watch the waves play and cool off in the Mediterranean. There are a variety of beaches around the island, with Agios Ioannis Beach and Hovolo Beach definitely being among the best tips. Here, the ambience of the island almost seems a bit Caribbean and there are the best conditions for one or the other swimming and diving lesson on the island.

Enjoy the simple life on the island of Skopelos

Of course, Greece is more than white beaches and unspoiled landscapes, more than beautiful cities and great weather. It is mainly the people, the culture and the food that make many people decide to go on holiday in Greece. This culture can also be found in the various places on the island. Local festivals give you an insight into the life of the people on the island and especially the taverns are well filled in the evening. It is not uncommon to meet the locals here, who enjoy good and fresh fish or seasonal salads in the evening. In any case, you should take the time to explore the island from this side as well. Leaving the hotel and stopping off at one of the quaint tavernas in the evening is a good way to see a little more of the island.

Lyon: Experience history in the artful French metropolis

France

PatrickJullien

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30. May 2025

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Lyon: Experience history in the artful French metropolis

The third largest city in France offers a wide range of things to see and do. Lyon is a suitable destination for individuals, couples or families with children and offers interesting places in every price range.

The city itself is easily accessible by plane. Lyon-Saint-Exupéry International Airport is less than half an hour from the city centre and can be reached quickly and easily by public transport.

You can also travel to Lyon by train or long-distance bus for about the same price. The huge Lyon Part-Dieu main station is served by many German trains. Long-distance buses arrive in Lyon Perrache, with the bus journey taking approximately twice as long as a train journey.

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Transportation in Lyon

You can get around the city by bike, bus, tram or metro. The metropolis has a well-developed network of cycle paths. Bicycles can be rented at many velo’v stations spread across the city.

There are also guided tours by bike, Segway and even by boat. A funicular runs from the old town up to the hill with Lyon’s towering Notre-Dame de Fourvière Basilica.

Discounts on all means of transport and several activities are available with the purchase of a Lyon City Card. The card gives you free admission to all of the city’s more than 20 museums.

Impressive sights of Lyon

Lyon’s most famous attraction is probably the Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière, which was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1998. It is located west of the old town on a mountain that can be climbed either on foot or by funicular. The cable car travels on the hill past several monuments and gardens.
Once at the top you have a fantastic view over the whole city. When the sky is clear, Mont Blanc is visible in the distance. The view is also a special experience at night.

The centre of the city is the largest pedestrian square in Europe, the Place Bellecour. It is surrounded by various shops and cafés. Here you will find the tourist information, an art gallery and the Ferris wheel of Lyon, as well as some monuments to relevant people. Among others, you can find Antoine de Saint-Exupéry, the author of the classic “The Little Prince” from Lyon.
Near the square there are many accommodations, shopping streets and the historic Vieux Lyon, the old town.

Also worth seeing are the Saint-Jean-Baptiste Cathedral in Lyon’s old town, the two Roman amphitheatres and other important buildings on the Place des Terreaux, including the Lyon City Hall.

Discovering Lyon

Place de Bellecour in Lyon — Place de Bellecour, Image: tichr / shutterstock

There is a lot to do in the city. It doesn’t always have to be expensive. In fact, Lyon has a lot to offer that is completely free of charge.

A popular activity in Lyon is to search for the traboules, which the silk weavers of the past used to transport silk. The secret passageways are hidden behind front doors and lead through corridors, stairwells and courtyards. In the footsteps of the silk weavers, the city can be perceived in a completely different way. If you don’t want to shake too many front doors, you can get an overview of the traboules at the tourist information office on Place Bellecour.

The city has a colorful variety of museums. With the Lyon City Card, you don’t pay admission to the more than 20 museums. Particularly exciting are the Museum du Cinema et de la Miniature, where sets, props and costumes from various films are exhibited, the natural history museum “Musée de Confluences”, the Musée des Beaux-Arts or the Museum Lumière, which revolves around the development of photography and film.

An absolute must is dining in one of the rustic bouchons, where traditional French cuisine is in the foreground. Since the restaurants are usually very full, it is advisable to book a table in advance.

Another tip is to visit the Parc de la Tête d’Or. There is plenty to do here. The many green spaces invite you to linger and relax. The park is home to a free zoo, a botanical garden, a rosarium, and a lake where you can row a boat. Mini golf and pony rides are also available.

Art in the city

Jacobin Square Lyon — Jacobin Square in Lyon, Image: RossHelen / shutterstock

Lyon is an ideal destination for art lovers, as art is present everywhere in the city. Not only in the museums, but also in underground garages or on house walls, you can marvel at impressive works of art.

The “Mur des Canuts” (“Wall of the Silk Weavers”) is the largest mural in Lyon with 1200 square meters. The scene changes over the years and the characters grow with it. The mural is located in the artists’ district of La Croix-Rousse. There you can discover street art as well as unusual shops, cafés and galleries. The neighborhood is located on a hill in the city center. The view can be enjoyed especially from the Jardin de la Grande Côte.

On the banks of the Saône river, there is a regular artists’ market and a bouquinists’ market.

With children in Lyon

Lyon and the surrounding area also have interesting places and activities for children. Both the traboules and the huge Tête d’Or city park are fun for the whole family.

For a change of pace, take a day trip to one of Lyon’s parks, such as the Walibi Rhône-Aples amusement park with a large number of rides, or the Family Aventure adventure park.

The Safari de Peaugres animal park and the Lyon Aquarium are popular with parents and children.

Gran Canaria – a dream island for many

Spain

PatrickJullien

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30. May 2025

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What speaks for the island of Gran Canaria – Above all, the constant climate as well as the wonderful unique beaches make the island something very special for tourists and visitors. Temperatures are usually almost never less than 15 degrees Celsius and hardly more than 30 degrees Celsius, a true feel-good climate. It is not for nothing that the great island is called the island of “Eternal Spring” by many visitors.

All Canary Islands have a warm-temperate climate, and long-lasting periods of bad weather are almost non-existent. Once the sun is really covered by clouds, you only have to drive a few kilometers to the next town to enjoy sunshine and a beautiful blue sky again.

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Play del Ingles Maspalomas

Playa del Ingles, Gran Canaria — The beach of Playa del Ingles, Image: Valery Bareta / shutterstock

The white sandy beach, which is about seven kilometres long, is the most famous and also the most visited beach in Gran Canaria. It stretches from the lighthouse at El Oasis to San Agustin and impresses above all with its great and unique dune landscape. The entire landscape mentioned is under nature conservation.

This extraordinary coastal performance is the main attraction of the island. During the day, a never-ending procession of beach walkers is on the way along the shore of the sea.
The beach of Puerto Rico can boast almost never-ending sunshine. The sun is still shining here, when in Maspalomas the sun has already disappeared behind the horizon. Since this is also the case in the winter months, it occasionally happens that things can get tight in this environment. The beach is one of the most beautiful places in Gran Canaria.

Sights

Artenara is located in the middle of an almost untouched natural landscape and is the highest place in Gran Canaria. Most visitors pay a visit to the place to visit the cave church located there and get an impression of the population living there. A few people still live in the caves today.

Forest area Pinar de Tamadaba

This wooded area can be reached by car through the village of Artenara. The curvy ride is compensated by the most beautiful pine forest in Gran Canaria. Some of these tall tendrils are hung with long lichens.

The Mirador (glazed balcony) at the end of the route offers a view all the way to the coast, visitors are impressed and enthusiastic about this unique panoramic view of Gran Canaria.

Recommended routes

There are numerous different routes, a tour of the island (190 km) is recommended, which is a day trip.

Drive into the interior of the island (130 km) which leads mainly through the mountains of Gran Canaria, the time takes about half a day.

The longest route (220 km) leads through the north of the island, where participants get to know the vegetation-rich north of the island. The route is paved with winding roads, so you need a relatively long time for this excursion.

Result: These are just a few reasons and attractions that contribute to the fact that the island of “Gran Canaria” is a dream island for many people. Not to forget the hospitable locals who welcome tourists from all over the world and pamper them hospitably. Numerous restaurants cater for the physical well-being of holidaymakers.

Day trips by boat to the neighbouring islands of Tenerife, Lanzarote and Fuerteventura are also possible. Worth seeing especially on Tenerife the famous “Botanical Garden” and on Fuerteventura the incomparably beautiful sandy beach.

How to make a camping holiday with a tent a success

Camping

PatrickJullien

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30. May 2025

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How to make a camping holiday with a tent a success

Sleeping outside during your holiday not in a hotel or guesthouse is the highest of feelings for some people. And that is understandable, because after all, without a permanent dwelling, you are much closer to nature. There are different variants when it comes to moving the sleeping place to a natural environment. In addition to overnight stays in a caravan or van, camping is a classic that will never go out of fashion. You can read about the advantages of camping with a tent, what exactly is so beautiful and special about it, which tent is best suited for whom and what you should pay attention to when camping with a tent.

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These are the advantages of camping with a tent

Camping with a tent has some advantages. You are very flexible with a tent and can sleep wherever you like in countries where wild camping is allowed. This form of overnight stay is therefore particularly suitable for those who like to get very close to nature and prefer to spend their holidays hiking or cycling. This is because lightweight tents and sleeping bags as well as sleeping mats can be easily transported in a backpack or in panniers attached to the bike. If you then pitch the tent in an idyllic spot in the middle of the starry sky, it becomes really romantic. And all adventure lovers are also recommended to camp with a tent.

Admittedly, the sounds of nature can seem a little creepy in the dark. But the sounds that frighten us are usually easy to explain, because they are, for example, the crawling noises of forest and meadow dwellers. Especially if you are traveling with children, this form of vacation can become an adventure that will be remembered by the offspring for a long time. In addition, you can also save money when camping with a tent. Because even if you don’t have the opportunity to look for a place to sleep completely free of charge as a wild camper, but spend the night on tent sites and campsites, this type of vacation is often cheaper than renting in hotels or holiday apartments. For campsites, fees must also be paid in order to be allowed to pitch your tent there, but depending on the region, these are manageable in Germany , for example, at around ten to 25 euros per night and person. Camping is also very healthy, as you spend the whole day, and even at night, in the fresh air. Furthermore, it is easier to take a dog with you when camping, because four-legged friends are not welcome in many overnight accommodations.

Which tent for what?

Camping in a tent — A bit of independence: camping holiday in a tent, Image: varuna / shutterstock

Depending on how many people you want to spend the night with and where you want to spend the night with the tent, different types of tents are suitable. Another decisive factor for choosing the right tent can also be the weight of the shelter, at least if you don’t transport the tent by car, but in a backpack or by bike. For a camping holiday with the family in a tent, there are family tents that are very spacious and offer enough storage space and an awning. Here, for example, the family can retreat to eat in rainy weather or in the evening. Furthermore, family tents are high so that you can stand comfortably in them.

For couples or individuals, smaller tents are more suitable. When it comes to being able to set up and dismantle the tent as quickly as possible, for example because the location is to be changed more often, pop-up tents are particularly suitable. They are light and flat packed and stand with a skilful throw. Trekking tents come in different forms. They can be designed as a tunnel tent, round and low or even as a higher dome tent. These tents are more robust and often more comfortable than a pop-up tent, but it takes longer to set up and take down and the weight of the tent is also higher. When choosing the right tent, you should think about how exactly you want to use it and weigh up the pros and cons.

What you should consider when camping with a tent

The right equipment is particularly important when camping with a tent. Because the tent is the only outer skin you have. So if it gets cold or wet, a tent often offers less protection than a permanent dwelling. Therefore, the choice of sleeping bag, sleeping mat and outdoor clothing should always correspond to the season and the expected weather conditions. In addition, there should always be enough change of clothes packed in a waterproof bag. This way you can keep dry even in heavy rain.

Furthermore, you should never travel with a tent that is too small. Tent holidaymakers must always keep in mind that not only they, but also all their luggage must have comfortable space in the tent. It is also a good idea to always take a small camping gas stove, a little crockery, coffee, tea and possibly some packet soups with you. Even if you always want to get food in a restaurant when camping in a tent, the gas stove can be worth its weight in gold on rainy days if you want to warm up a little. To save weight and storage space, however, chic clothes can be left at home. In general, clothing should be functional when camping in a tent. It is best to follow the onion look and limit yourself to the bare essentials

Peru round trip: These are the most important things to consider

Peru

PatrickJullien

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30. May 2025

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Peru round trip: These are the most important things to consider

South American Peru offers travelers a multifaceted mix of grandiose landscapes that are interspersed with testimonies of long-gone advanced civilizations. In addition, there are lively metropolises to explore Peruvian city life. The population is very warm and hospitable. Due to the diversity of the country, a round trip is a good way to see and experience as much as possible. However, there are a few important things to keep in mind.

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Organizational aspects for the success of the Peru round trip

German citizens do not need a visa for Peru if the planned stay does not last longer than three months. A passport that is valid for at least six months is required for entry. In this part of South America, the inhabitants speak the Spanish language, English is not so widely spoken. The Peruvian currency is called Nueva Sol and can be exchanged for euros in many places. When planning the round trip, the size of the country must be considered. Thus, the length of the coastline from the northern border with Ecuador to the southern end at the Chilean border is more than 3,300 km. Due to the large distances, it is a good idea to set a thematic focus for the round trip. These can be the following topics:

In the footsteps of the Incas
Trekking in the mountains
Discover historical treasures
Explore coasts and cities

The Peruvian landscapes and regions are extremely diverse, there is tropical rainforest, the high mountains of the Andes, extensive deserts and the coasts of the Pacific. To make the Peru round trip a complete success, organized tours with experienced tour guides and hiking guides are available.

Determine the type and period of the tour in Peru

Machu Picchu, Peru — Machu Picchu, Image: Bluesnaps / shutterstoclk

Peru is the original empire of the Incas, as evidenced by numerous historical buildings and monuments such as Machu Pichu and Cusco. Many of the places are located high up in the mountains and are best explored on hikes. In general, trekking is an optimal method to discover the numerous treasures in Peru. The best months for a Peru round trip are from May to September, as this is the dry season. On the other hand, a lot of rain is to be expected in the autumn and winter months, which mainly falls in the Peruvian mountain landscape. On the Peruvian coastal region, the sun shines all year round and it is pleasantly warm. If you want to go all the way up into the mountains, you have to keep in mind that altitude sickness can occur there.

Hygiene and vaccination protection

In view of the Corona pandemic, there are also certain restrictions in Peru, but these can change daily. Therefore, holidaymakers should inform themselves sufficiently before starting their trip, for this purpose the Federal Foreign Office has all the necessary data and facts ready. Apart from Covid vaccination, no other vaccinations are required, but yellow fever and hepatitis A and B are recommended. In addition, the normal vaccinations should be refreshed if they were given some time ago. Tap water is not drinking water and should not be consumed.

Result

If you pay attention to the things mentioned, you can enjoy the Peru round trip with all your senses. In an organized group trip, possible problems can be avoided.

Vatican City: Visiting the Pope and Precious Art Treasures

Vatican City

PatrickJullien

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30. May 2025

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Vatican City: Visiting the Pope and Precious Art Treasures

Vatican City is unique in many ways. Not only that the dwarf state, whose name would actually indicate more to be a city than a state, is the smallest state in the whole world with an area of only 0.44 square kilometers. It is also the only country that has made Latin its official language. In addition, no country in the world has fewer inhabitants than Vatican City. At the last official census in 2020, there were 932, but only 552 of them were considered citizens.

In addition, the national territory is not surrounded by a country, but only by a city, namely the Italian capital Rome. The Pope is the head of state of the dwarf state, which was built on the Vatican Hill, a 75-meter-high tuff hill. Vatican City is the only country in the world whose entire territory has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. These include St. Peter’s Basilica and the Vatican Museums, which are not located in Rome, as many people believe, but in a completely different country than Italy.

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St. Peter’s Basilica

The name St. Peter’s Basilica is only known in the German-speaking world. The Italian name San Pietro in Vaticano gives an indication of the location of the basilica. Anyone who visits St. Peter’s Basilica enters the territory of the Vatican. In addition to this outstanding fact, St. Peter’s Basilica impresses with its size. The floor area of the basilica is exactly 20,139 square meters. 20,000 people can be in the building at the same time.

Of course, not for sightseeing, but for the trade fair. If you want to take in the beauties of St. Peter’s Basilica, built between 1506 and 1626, then a visit during the viewing hours, when the streams of visitors are well channeled, is a good idea. Before you enter, you have to take a look at the dress code, because of course it is chaste in this Catholic church. In any case, the shoulders must be covered and it is best to wear long trousers or a skirt that reaches at least above the knees. Otherwise, the visit can also be denied by the staff. St. Peter’s Basilica is spanned by a striking main dome and ten small side domes, all of which can be viewed from the inside. In addition to the 778 columns, 395 statues and 44 altars are grouped under these domes. Under St. Peter’s Basilica lies the tomb of St. Peter.

In addition, there are 20 tombs and monuments of popes positioned within St. Peter’s Basilica. Taking a closer look at the interior, tourists quickly notice that a single visit to St. Peter’s Basilica will not be enough if you want to deal with all the art treasures. The domes, for example, and also the altarpieces are designed with mosaics. Anyone who has seen all the mosaics of St. Peter’s Basilica has seen a 10,000 square meter mosaic together.

The Vatican Museums with Sistine Chapel

Among other things, the Vatican Museums house most of St. Peter’s Basilica’s altarpieces. The so-called Papal Art Collection also contains a whole range of other important art treasures. Oriental antiquities from ancient Egypt and Assyria, Greco-Roman art from classical antiquity, Etruscan antiquities, early Christian and medieval art from the third to the 14th century, as well as works of art from the Renaissance to the present day. The exhibition is complemented by a well-stocked ethnological collection.

Sistine Chapel Vatican City, Image: amw213 / shutterstock

In addition, the Sistine Chapel, which is housed in the official residence of the Pope, the Apostolic Palace, is also part of the Vatican Museums. The Sistine Chapel is known for its outstanding murals depicting scenes from the life of Jesus. These include, among other things, a depiction of the Last Supper. Parts of the ceiling paintings of the Sistine Chapel show scenes from the Old Testament, which were often depicted in art and textbooks, or used, for example, for advertisements. For example, The Creation of Adam and The Fall of Man and the Expulsion from Paradise. Another part of the Vatican Museums area are the Vatican Courtyards. The courtyard of the Belvedere invites you to stroll between pines, pines, palms and cypresses. Together with the Cortile della Biblioteca, it frames the Vatican Library, which was established as early as 1475. Among other things, there are 150,000 extremely valuable manuscript volumes here.

Vatican City seen from above

Even if you may have to queue for a while, you should not miss the walk to the main dome of St. Peter’s Basilica. From there, visitors have a fantastic view over the entire Vatican and St. Peter’s Square in front of St. Peter’s Basilica. The view over the Italian capital Rome, which surrounds Vatican City, also extends far. If you are athletic, climb the 551 steps to the false roof on foot. All others can get here by elevator. However, it is really only possible to go all the way up on foot and there are still 320 steps of the ascent to the final viewing platform.

What else you should know about Vatican City

More important than anywhere else in the area is to behave appropriately in Vatican City on the one hand, but on the other hand to be aware that the crowds of people pouring into this holy place also attract a lot of dubious people. Pickpockets often try their luck in the confusing hustle and bustle, which is why you should take special care of your valuables here. By the way, if you need cash, you can also use an ATM in Vatican City, which guides you with Latin operating instructions.

The most popular destinations in South Africa

South Africa

PatrickJullien

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30. May 2025

0

The most popular destinations in South Africa

South Africa owes its attractiveness to its scenic beauty, the breathtaking biodiversity of flora and fauna and, last but not least, the attitude to life of the local population, which can be felt in many places. The landscapes of South Africa have something for every type of holiday: from lonely sandy beaches and bays to lively stretches of beach, from the red, parched soils of the Kalahari to the lush green forests along the Garden Route, from Cape Town and Pretoria on the cold Atlantic to Durban on the warm Indian Ocean, from extreme heat in the Kaaro to cool temperatures on the high Drakensberg Mountains.

#Die diverse natural conditions of South Africa create habitats for an overabundance of plants and animals. There are 16,000 species of plants, around 300 different mammals and over 830 species of birds. Africa’s national flower is the protea, an evergreen shrub with large inflorescences that cannot be found anywhere else on earth. In South Africa , it exists in over 400 forms.

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Wild South Africa

South Africa’s diversity of game reserves and national parks is the country’s main attraction, offering holidaymakers some of the continent’s most thrilling safari experiences. In the reserves, there are a wide variety of landscapes, from forests and deserts to coasts and mountains, which are home to every imaginable animal species. The so-called “Big Five” – elephant, rhinoceros, buffalo, lion and leopard – are at home in several reserves and can be observed and photographed by travellers. If you also want to see running ostriches, zebras, giraffes and wildebeests as well as cheetahs and lynxes or a herd of graceful antelopes in their natural habitat, a visit to a South African national park is worthwhile.

The world-famous “Kruger National Park”, which with an area of about 20,000 square meters is half the size of Switzerland , is one of the most popular holiday destinations in South Africa. From the dainty antelope species of the dikdiks, which is not even 50 cm tall, to the elephant colossus of 6 tons, many animals are at home here. The biodiversity is gigantic. The national park is home to around 150 species of mammals, 114 reptiles and over 500 species of birds. The 12 main camps with restaurants, shops and gas stations resemble small towns and ensure a pleasant stay of several days in the national park. Some of the most popular camps include Lower Sabie, Orpen, Letaba, Olifants, and Pretoriouskop.

During a car ride through the “Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park”, one of the oldest African wildlife reserves, travellers can, with a bit of luck, discover the endangered white rhinoceros in addition to elephants, buffaloes, cheetahs, lions and wild dogs.

Lively South Africa

Cape Town

Cape Town is one of the most beautiful cities in the world and therefore one of the most popular holiday destinations in South Africa. The oldest city in the country and the immediate surroundings offer visitors an interesting mix of colourful multiculturalism, recent history of the country, harbour feeling and shopping pleasure as well as spectacular natural formations. Founded in 1652 as a supply station for shipping, the city is located at the foot of the majestic Table Mountain. The old fort from 1666 is the oldest building in South Africa. In addition, there are a number of buildings in the Dutch colonial style to visit.

Cape Town’s landmark is the mighty Table Mountain, which travellers can easily reach by gondola. For all those who like it more sporty, about 300 hiking trails with different levels of difficulty lead from the valley station to the summit. Due to its location, about 1,500 different plants grow on the Table Mountain massif. All nature lovers can admire this extraordinary variety of plants in the Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden. One of the most popular destinations in Cape Town is the notorious prison island of Robben Island, where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned until 1982. Other highlights include the lively entertainment and strolling district “V&A Waterfront” and an organized township tour. No one knows exactly how many people really live in the townships. For those who want to understand the history of South Africa, a visit to Soweto is a must on their trip.

Johannesburg and Pretoria

Skyline Johannesburg — View of the Johannesburg skyline, Image: Nataly Reinch / shutterstock

The province of Gauteng, with the two metropolises of Johannesburg and Pretoria, which are only 50 kilometres apart, is a popular holiday destination for all travellers interested in history. Here you will find important testimonies to the very eventful history of the country. The Apartheid Museum in Johannesburg is one of the most interesting and provocative museums in the world. Other sights include the Nelson Mandela Bridge, Museum Africa and the reconstructed old gold mining town of Gold Reef City. South Africa’s capital Pretoria fascinates with magnificent avenues, imposing government buildings, historical sights and a variety of interesting museums. Highlights include the impressive Union Buildings complex, the Pretoria Art Museum and Church Square Park with the Palace of Justice and the Kruger Museum.

Sporty South Africa

The Golden Mile, Durban — View of the “Golden Mile” of Durban, Image: Alexandre G. ROSA / shutterstock

In South Africa, there are no limits to active holidaymakers. With almost 3000 km of coastline, the country offers plenty of opportunities for all kinds of water sports. Although the Atlantic Ocean is too cold for swimming, there are also some magnificent beaches in the Cape region. From Cape Agulhas eastwards, the Indian Ocean with its warmer sea water invites you to swim and bathe. In the province of KwaZulu-Natal and especially on the Garden Route there are beautiful sandy beaches.

The city of Durban, with its wide sandy beaches and beautiful lakeside promenade, is a popular holiday destination for all swimmers and sun worshippers. The South African coast offers a diverse habitat for marine animals and is therefore a diver’s paradise. Dives to the coral gardens of Aliwal Shoal and Sodwana Bay in KwaZulu-Natal, to the kelp forests and wrecks around the cape, as well as whale watching, lagoon diving around Knysna are unique experiences. Brave divers can get up close and personal with great white sharks in a cage. South Africa is considered a surfing hotspot. The best surfing areas are the coasts of Jeffrey’s Bay and Durban.

On foot, by bike or on horseback, holidaymakers can explore the country. There are countless hiking routes. Going on a walking safari with an armed ranger in the “Kurger National Park” is exciting and an unforgettable adventure. There are various mountain bike trails throughout the country, even in some national parks. Riding enthusiasts will get their money’s worth on the beaches of the Cape Province and in the Drakensberg Mountains. With some local providers, you can also book horseback safaris in wildlife sanctuaries.

The sky-high Drak Mountains on the border with Lesotho are particularly popular with hiking enthusiasts. Here, sporting activity can be wonderfully combined with unique nature experiences. The “uKhahlamba-Drakensberg Park” comprises a total of 12 nature reserves with a total area of almost 2,500 square kilometres. During hikes through the fascinating natural landscape with imposing mountain giants over 3,000 m high, the second highest waterfall in the world, discreet mountain lakes, holidaymakers are offered magnificent views and even ancient cave paintings