No matter what your perfect vacation looks like, whether you’re traveling as a couple or with the kids, want to spend it all or save up, here are some great suggestions for you.
South Africa has some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. During a South Africa tour you will love the sun, the sea and the sand, and you will be spoilt for choice. Visit Cape Town’s Clifton beaches for soft white sand and clear blue waters. Head to Durban’s Golden Mile for warm ocean waves and a lively atmosphere. Don’t miss the unspoilt beauty of the Wild Coast with its rugged cliffs and tranquil beaches. Whether you want to surf, sunbathe or take a relaxing stroll, the beaches of South Africa offer something for everyone.
You won’t find finer beaches than in Bali. Known for its rugged coastline and turquoise waters, Bali is paradise on earth – waiting to be explored.
If you’re looking for a laid-back beach that offers warm waters and silky sand, then head to Nusa Dua, surrounded by many luxury hotels in case you get a bit hungry. For something a little more lively, you’ll feel right at home in Kuta, the party capital of the island; There is always something going on in Kuta, day or night!
For city dwellers
Shanghai Tower, Image: Vladimir ZH / shutterstock
When it comes to exploring a captivating city, we can’t think of anything more perfect than Shanghai. With plenty of shopping, plenty of entertainment, and a fascinating history, Shanghai is a paradise for those looking to immerse themselves in an exciting city.
Indulge in some retail therapy on the streets of Shanghai, where brands like Prada and Burberry are ubiquitous, and cool vintage stores offer all sorts of treasures. There are also bustling markets where you can spend hours!
Shanghai also offers an abundance of art galleries, gourmet restaurants, and live music venues, making for a memorable city break.
Crowds of people walk along Nanjing Road under neon signs. The street is the city’s main business district and one of the busiest shopping districts in the world.
For families
Home to the world’s most famous theme parks, it’s no surprise that Orlando is on our list of perfect family vacations.
No matter how old you are, you’ll love a visit to Disney World, a famous mecca for roller coasters and attractions that you undoubtedly know from your favorite Disney movies. And if you want to skip the lines, a Disney FastPass+ allows you to reserve access to some Disney attractions in advance, including shows, parades, and meet-and-greets.
Of course, Orlando also features Universal Orlando, complete with three amazing theme parks, including the magical world of Harry Potter – always a hit with families!
For people on a budget
If you’re looking for value for money, Turkey is definitely worth considering. From beautiful beaches to delicious cuisine, there’s something for everyone in this exotic location.
Blessed with turquoise waters, pebble beaches, and a booming nightlife, Marmaris offers excellent value for money, especially when it comes to all-inclusive accommodations.
For families on a budget, Turkey also offers plenty of options, with family-friendly hotels galore. The five-star Letoonia Club in Fethiye offers a special children’s club, not to mention two swimming pools with water slides.
Have we given you some ideas for your next vacation?
On the east coast of Spain, right on the shores of the Mediterranean Sea, lies the university town of Castellón de la Plana. It has about 170,000 inhabitants and is easily accessible because it has its own airport. But most tourists probably travel via the metropolis of Valencia, which is only 30 km away – or even with a cruise ship: Cruise ships often arrive in the port of Castellón de la Plana, and the passengers may then spend a few hours in the city. But such a short stay is actually not appropriate for the traditional city! If you can make it possible, you should take a few days for Castellón de la Plana, yes, maybe even spend the whole holiday here – it’s worth it! A beach holiday is highly recommended, as the water temperatures of the Mediterranean Sea reach around 25°C in July, even 26°C in August, and in September the water on the beaches of Castellón de la Plana is still around 24°C!
Castellón de la Plana is a popular destination in Spain in spring and autumn, Image: Bonacasa / shutterstock
The old town with its narrow streets, nice restaurants and numerous shops offers plenty of opportunities for shopping and going out. If you like to party, head to the small party district of Las Tascas with its cocktail bars in the evening. And during the day it is worth taking beautiful photos in the old town. Tourists like to walk through the market square and admire the pretty town hall with its arcades. It was built in the 17th century in the Baroque style. In front of the town hall there is a fountain – also photogenic. The most beautiful photo motif and landmark of the city is not the town hall, but the tower “El Fadri”. It is the octagonal bell tower of the cathedral of Castellón de la Plana, the “Iglesia Concatedral de Santa Maria de la Ascunción”. The 58 m high tower dates from the 16th century and was built in the Gothic style. It stands separately from the church to which it belongs. The cathedral itself is definitely worth seeing, but much younger than the tower. After fires and destruction, the original church was reconstructed in neo-Gothic style from 1939 onwards. It has an impressive nave with two aisles and is decorated with beautiful altars and statues. Outside there is a small cloister. The Basilica of Our Lady of Lledó, built between 1724 and 1731, is also worth a visit – a place of pilgrimage for the locals, an admirable building for tourists and also a place of silence and contemplation. The basilica is painted bright white inside and out.
Interesting and quiet: the museums
Not only the historic buildings, but also the museums prove that Castellón de la Plana is a very attractive place for those interested in culture. Two of the city’s museums should be mentioned here: The largest and most important museum in the city is probably the “Museum of Fine Arts”. Many archaeological finds are exhibited here, but also numerous pretty, colorful ceramic products. (An extra tip: ceramic jugs, cups or plates are ideal holiday souvenirs from the region!). In addition, interesting paintings and sculptures can be found in the museum. Also worth a visit is the Ethnological Museum (“Museo de Etnologia”), where mainly everyday objects of the 19. and 20th century. This is where the region’s past comes alive!
Attractive for families: the adventure pool and the beaches
Families like to spend an eventful day in the “Aquarama” adventure pool. It is located just 12 km north of Castellón de la Plana and offers attractions for swimmers and non-swimmers, such as various swimming pools, paddling pools and water slides. Children will never get bored here! But the beaches are also attractive: north of the city harbour are the beaches of Playa el Gurugú, Playa del Pinar and Playa el Palmeral. Every family will find a nice place here, even in the high season! The sand is light and fine, and the beaches slope gently down to the sea. Important for children and non-swimmers: Lifeguards are on duty during the bathing season. Sanitary facilities, showers and beach bars are also available. Another tip: South of the city harbour is the beach Playa de Ben Afelí. It belongs to the southern municipality of Almassora and is often a little quieter than the city beaches on hot summer days. Beach bars can also be found here. By the way, a walk on the beach is a wonderful experience at any time of the year.
Rest and enjoy: From the park to the harbour
If you want to relax for a few hours, the best thing to do is to take a walk through Ribalta Park. This park is a “must” for visitors to the city anyway, it is one of the most important attractions! The Ribalta Park was laid out in the 19th century in the English style: with beautiful flower beds, hedges, pond and pavilions. The monuments and sculptures that additionally decorate the park form original photo motifs. The “stars” of the park, however, are the benches. They are not made of wood or plastic, as is usual in “normal” parks, but they are colorful works of art! Each bench is individually designed from colourful mosaic stones.
How about a trip across the Mediterranean?
Not only the large cruise ships dock at the port of Castellón de la Plana, but also smaller ferries that are on their way to and from the Balearic Islands. Many tourists like to take a trip to Ibiza, for example. But if you have spent a few days in Castellón de la Plana and fallen in love with this city, you may not want to leave…
Due to the heat waves that have prevailed in southern Europe in midsummer in recent years, more and more tourists are moving to cooler regions during the summer months. Currently, Holland, the North Sea and South Tyrol are at the top of the list of the most popular destinations.
But of course, wanderlust also wants to be satisfied in Germany’s most popular foreign travel destination. That’s why it’s worth taking a look at which Spanish destinations are particularly worthwhile in the off-season (March-June & September-October). We draw on information from a study by Ferienwohnungen-spanien.de , which recorded the maximum temperatures, average UV values and humidity for over 100 popular Spanish holiday resorts.
One thing in advance: UV exposure in the early off-season is significantly higher in Spain than in the late off-season – despite sometimes lower temperatures. So if you have particularly sensitive skin, we recommend postponing your travel plans to autumn.
According to the study, the most popular travel destinations at this time of year are:
Valencia
Castellón de la Plana
Huelva
Javea
Moraira
Alicante
Denia
El Campello
Cadiz
Guardamar del Segura
We briefly introduce Valencia, Alicante and Cadiz to you below:
Valencia – Birthplace of Paella
View of Peñíscola in the Valencia region, Image: Lana_May
With more than 780,000 inhabitants, the third largest city in Spain is located on the east coast of Spain directly on the Mediterranean Sea. The city is known for its impressive architecture, including the futuristic Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias and the historic cathedral.
If you travel directly to Valencia in March, you will experience “Las Fallas” – the famous festival with the highlight of the burning on March 19th. Valencia also has extensive beaches, where you can relax in the pre-season with pleasant temperatures between 19 and 26 degrees.
Alicante – Swimming on the Costa Blanca
As a beach holiday in the early low season, Alicante in the southeast of Spain is ideal. Towering over the city on the Benacantil mountain is the castle of Santa Bárbara. An absolute highlight in the city invites you to stroll: The Explanada de España, Over 6 million mosaic stones in three colors have been processed into the floor here. At the edge, palm trees provide refreshing shade and in the evening the harbour is a magnet for good food and lively bars.
Cadiz – coastal town in Andalusia
Cadiz, the oldest city in the West, Image: Travel Faery / shutterstock
In the capital of the province of the same name, temperatures in summer are constantly well above 30 degrees. A trip to this traditional town in spring is a good idea. With pleasant temperatures of around 23 degrees in May, you can explore the city, which was used as a base by sailors long before the birth of Christ.
So it’s no wonder that you can see numerous finds from this era in the city’s archaeological museum. Cadiz is particularly easy to reach for German holidaymakers. Jerez Airport is just 45 kilometres away.
September & October: Soak up the sun before the dark season
Lower UV exposure at pleasant water temperatures. Visiting Spain in the late mid-season offers many advantages. Here, the Balearic Islands, which are particularly popular with German holidaymakers, also performed well in the study.
The most popular travel destinations in autumn:
Castello de la Plana
Can Picafort
Alcudia
Cala d’Or
Cambrils
Magaluf
Palma de Mallorca
Pollença
Salou
Santa Ponça
Tarragona
As in spring, Castello de la Plana appears at the top of the list of the most popular destinations. Since many other holiday resorts from Mallorca share the top rankings, we present the Balearic island as a whole in addition to Castello below:
Castello de la Plana – Tradition on the Mediterranean
A dream for every holidaymaker who is looking for a combination of culture and relaxation. In the morning, stroll quietly on the central market, visit the town hall in the baroque building from the 17th century and take numerous photos with the city’s landmark, the bell tower “El Fadrí”. In the afternoon, after the afternoon rest, the day ends relaxed at the Mediterranean Sea. This is possible in the charming capital of the Valencia region.
Even in autumn, the temperature here is still a pleasant 28 degrees and the humidity is always well tolerated.
Mallorca – Germany’s favourite island
The Cap de Formentor is one of the most popular destinations in Mallorca, Image: Allard One / shutterstock
Almost everyone who has ever visited Cap de Formentor feels the need to return to this magical place. Mallorca is so versatile as an island that there is a suitable holiday destination for every type of holiday.
Somewhat wealthier guests like to go to Andratx in the west of Mallorca, while families with small children are likely to feel most at home in the east around Cala Ratjada, Cala Millor or Sa Coma with its beautiful peninsula Punta de n’Amer.
But there is also no shortage of excursion destinations on the largest Balearic island. In particular, the capital Palma de Mallorca with its cathedral “La Seu” is worthwhile for a day trip.
Spain is always worthwhile – no matter what time of year
In summary, a trip to Spain is always worthwhile. If you don’t mind the heat wave, you can of course spend fantastic days in southern Europe even in the middle of summer.
A little tip for the cool season: City trips to Madrid and Barcelona are also recommended in winter and offer excellent conditions to expand your cultural knowledge at temperatures just above 10 degrees.
If you really think of Italy as the proverbial boot on the map, the Calabria region is the tip of the boot. It is the southernmost part of the country and has its own culture and way of life, which is particularly different from that of the people in the north of the country. Located right on the heart of the Mediterranean Sea, Calabria not only has an eventful history and impressive nature, but also just the right mix of great beaches and impressive sights that holidaymakers from all over the world want. If you want to understand Italy, you have to discover Calabria on your own.
Anyone preparing for a holiday in Italy typically has destinations such as Rome, Milan, Venice, Florence, Tuscany or Lombardy in mind. Sicily and Sardinia have also become increasingly popular with many holidaymakers in recent years. The Calabria region is known only to very few holidaymakers, but with its beauty it has long since won a place of honour among lovers of the country in southern Europe.
Calabria has always been a contested spot on the Italian mainland. This is where the Moors once landed, later the Greeks came for a short time and it has always been an important part of history in the battles of the individual Italian states. The various fortresses and settlements in the hinterland still bear witness to this today. There are many good reasons why not only the conquerors, but also tourists today take a look at Calabria. Beautiful orange groves, entire forests of olive trees and sometimes completely untouched beaches are just a few examples of the nature that can be found in this region of the country.
Above all, however, Calabria is living Italian culture. It is above all the many traces of Normans, Moors, Greeks and Italians that have shaped a unique culture and perhaps one of the first melting pots in Europe .
Calabria and its nature – what do you have to be prepared for?
Vibo Valentia, Image: logaen / shutterstock
Unlike Tuscany , Calabria is a challenge to travel. Not all roads here are as developed as one would like and the general public infrastructure is rather negligible outside the larger towns. This is also a great way to explore this special part of Italy on your own. With the rental car you can go through the mountains or simply along the highways that run along the almost 700 kilometers of coastline and thus ensure that vacationers always have the feeling that the sea is at most a stone’s throw away.
But Calabria is not only the sea, but of course also the mountains. The Calabrian Arc and other small and large mountains in the region ensure that hikers also have many beautiful places to visit here. Particularly impressive are the many small villages in the hilly regions, which have not changed significantly for hundreds of years and have retained the charm of their former founders.
The highlight of Calabria, however, are of course the beaches. Located between two seas, the possibilities for a trip to the coast are almost permanent. There are some beaches in the larger towns on the coast but just as many small bays and areas that are only visited by the locals. A trip to the beach is actually part of every day in Calabria, because here you can still enjoy the sea without a tourist castle nearby.
The sights – which places should you have seen?
Tropea in Calabria, Image: leoks / shutterstock
There are many small and large villages hidden all over the region. After all, it was fought over for many centuries and many peoples have left their mark here. Hidden castles can still be found somewhere in the mountain ranges that once oversaw a supply route. Examples of the beautiful places on the coast are, for example, Isola Capo Rizzuto, Diamante or Capo Vaticano. In Isola, for example, there is the district of La Castella. An old Moorish castle that was later used again and again by the conquerors. It is built in the middle of the sea and allows not only one visit. Lying here on the beach at sunset with the castle as an eye-catcher is a real experience.
Discover and experience the culture of Calabria
A mixture of different influences can be seen both in the cuisine and in the general culture of Calabria, which is a little different from typical Italy. But that refers more to the menus than to the possibilities. Here, too, there are of course small and large restaurants on the coasts and offer fresh seafood everything you can dream of from a holiday by the sea. If you take a little time and overcome the somewhat brusque nature of the Calabians, you will notice what an interesting people live here.
Information for your holiday in Calabria
Important telephone numbers
Police: 112
Fire brigade: 115
Ambulance service: 118
General emergency: 112
German Embassy in Rome: +39 06 49213 1
Supermarkets
Conad: Various locations in Calabria, e.g. in Catanzaro, Reggio Calabria and Cosenza.
Carrefour: Supermarkets in larger cities such as Reggio Calabria and Cosenza.
Coop: Branches in many cities, e.g. in Crotone and Catanzaro.
Eurospin: Branches in cities such as Reggio Calabria, Lamezia Terme and Catanzaro.
Lidl: Supermarkets in cities such as Reggio Calabria, Vibo Valentia and Cosenza.
Doctors in the most important places
Reggio Calabria:
Dr. Giuseppe Caridi: Ospedale Riuniti, Viale Europa, +39 0965 397111
Dr. Maria Rosa Versace: Studio Medico, Via Gebbione, 10, +39 0965 634010
Catanzaro:
Dr. Giovanni Tallarico: Ospedale Pugliese-Ciaccio, Viale Pio X, +39 0961 883111
Dr. Maria De Stefano: Centro Medico, Via Acri, 16, +39 0961 721038
Cosenza:
Dr. Francesco Russo: Ospedale Annunziata, Via Felice Migliori, +39 0984 6811
Dr. Anna Giordano: Studio Medico, Via Roma, 25, +39 0984 32223
Important words with translation
Hello – Ciao
Thank you – Grazie
Please – Per favore
Yes – Sì
Nein – No
Sorry – Scusa
Where is…? – Dov’è…?
How much does it cost…? – Quanto costa…?
Emergency – Emergenza
Doctor – Medico
Hospital – Ospedale
Holidays
New Year’s Day: January 1
Epiphany: January 6
Easter Monday: variable (March/April)
Labour Day: 1 May
National Holiday: June 2
Assumption Day: 15 August
All Saints’ Day: November 1
Immaculate Conception: December 8
Christmas: December 25
St. Stephen’s Day: December 26
Opening hours
Shops: Usually Monday to Saturday from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. and from 4:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Many shops close at noon for a siesta.
Supermarkets: Usually daily from 8:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m., some also on Sundays.
Restaurants: Lunch from 12:30 to 14:30, dinner from 19:30 to 22:00.
Banks: Monday to Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. and from 2:30 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Airport
Lamezia Terme International Airport (SUF): Calabria’s main airport, about 10 km from Lamezia Terme.
Reggio Calabria Airport (REG): Second largest airport, close to the city of Reggio Calabria.
NUDISM
Not common: There are no official nudist beaches in Calabria. Nudism is not practiced and could be considered offensive.
Post / Stamps
Post offices: In all major cities and towns. Opening hours: Monday to Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., Saturday from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Stamps: Available in post offices and tobacconists (tabacchi).
Costs for letters and postcards to Germany: Standard letter up to 20g: approx. 1.15 EUR; Postcard: approx. 1.15 EUR
Safety
Crime: Calabria is considered relatively safe. Observe usual precautions as in any city, especially in tourist areas.
Emergency number: 112
Current
Voltage: 230 volts
Sockets: Type F and L (Type F as in Germany)
Tip
Restaurants: 5-10% of the invoice amount
Taxis: Round up the amount
Hotels: 1-2 euros per day for cleaning staff
Customs
Allowances within the EU: No customs restrictions on personal belongings.
Alcohol: Maximum 10 liters of spirits, 20 liters of alcoholic beverages with less than 22%, 90 liters of wine, 110 liters of beer.
Tobacco: 800 cigarettes, 400 cigarillos, 200 cigars, 1 kg of tobacco.
Cala Ratjada – The quaint fishing village with a harbour from the 17th century is one of the most popular holiday resorts for Germans and is located in the southeast of Mallorca. The lively harbour area, gently sloping, fine sandy beaches and numerous entertainment and nightlife options – this lively holiday resort offers everything a holidaymaker’s heart desires.
The promenade at Cala Agulla, Image: iamjorge / shutterstock
Cala Ratjada is known for its bright, gently sloping sandy beaches.
Popular with families is Playa Son Moll, which is very centrally located to the city and therefore easily accessible on foot. A wide sunbathing area offers plenty of space to relax and invites you to sunbathe. The physical well-being is taken care of – a beach bar offers snacks and drinks against the small appetite, restaurants can be found within walking distance on the promenade. The ideal place to spend a day at the beach.
Fine sand and clear, blue water that is perfect for snorkelling – that’s what you’ll find at Cala Gat, a small cove in front of Cala Ratjada. A promenade paves the way from the harbour and a well-developed stone staircase leads directly to the pine-lined beach. A small beach bar provides guests with ice cream and drinks, and loungers can be rented on site.
Cala Agulla is probably one of the most famous beaches in Mallorca. Nestled in a nature reserve, this beach is the largest on Mallorca’s east coast and presents itself with the finest sandy beach and clear water. A beach bar provides visitors with delicious dishes and provides iced drinks for the necessary cooling in summer. Loungers can also be rented here. There are also various water sports on offer at this beach – local providers sell banana boat and kayak tours.
The harbour of Cala Ratjada with nice restaurants, Image: pb826 / Pixabay
Cala Ratjada has one of the largest and most important ports in Mallorca with the port of Capdepera. The old harbour area has been the heart of the lively fishing village for hundreds of years.
In the morning you can watch the fishing boats as they return home with full nets after a successful night. Two lobster houses from the past are still preserved and are under monument protection. Local restaurants tempt you with freshly prepared fish dishes and cafés offer the most beautiful sea view for coffee and cake.
The port of Cala Ratjada is now the starting point for boat trips. A pretty promenade with numerous shopping facilities leads the visitor from the harbour along the sea to the beaches of the city.
The lighthouse above the city
A spectacular panoramic view of the harbour, the sea and Villa March is offered from the Capdepera lighthouse. The way there leads through the unspoilt and wild landscape of rugged rocks and barren heather bushes. It will be worth it – in good weather you can even see Menorca . The sublime lighthouse in front of the sea and the rugged rocky cliffs also offer an ideal photo motif.
Castell Capdepera – Memories of a bygone era
The well-preserved castle complex from the 14th century towers majestically above the towns of Capdepera and Cala Ratjada. Exhibitions inside the castle bring visitors closer to the centuries-old history of the complex. A walk along the fortification wall and a visit to the defensive tower offer a beautiful view over the sea.
Villa March – One of the most beautiful art collections in Mallorca
This historic villa is located just a few minutes outside Cala Ratjada. The stately estate inspires with pretty floor mosaics and murals and in the extensive park visitors can admire a wide variety of sculptures that have been artistically integrated into the landscape. On a guided tour, the history of Villa March is brought to life and with a lot of background information.
So let’s go to Cala Ratjada!
Whether sunbathing on the beach, experiencing splashy water sports adventures with the family or taking an individual walk to the Capdepera lighthouse and enjoying the spectacular view over the wide sea – Cala Ratjada offers the perfect holiday experience for everyone with its scenic and cultural highlights.
Holidays in Cala Ratjada: Important information
Important telephone numbers
Police: 091
Fire brigade: 080
Ambulance service: 061
General emergency: 112
German Embassy in Madrid: +34 91 557 90 00
German Consulate in Palma de Mallorca: +34 971 707 735
Doctors in the most important places
Cala Ratjada:
Dr. Antoni Ferrer: Carrer de l’Agulla, 48, +34 971 565 688
Dr. Kirsten Riedel: Avenida Juan Carlos I, 6, +34 971 819 078
Arta:
Dr. Pere Serra: Centro de Salud, Carrer de Ciutat, 34, +34 971 829 292
Manacor:
Dr. Juan Rotger: Hospital de Manacor, Carretera Manacor – Alcudia, +34 971 847 000
Important words with translation
Hello – Hola
Thank you – Gracias
Please – Por favor
Yes – Sí
Nein – No
Sorry – Perdón
Where is…? – ¿Dónde está…?
How much does it cost…? – ¿Cuánto cuesta…?
Emergency – Emergencia
Doctor – Médico
Krankenhaus – Hospital
Holidays
New Year’s Day: January 1
Epiphany: January 6
Good Friday: variable (March/April)
Labour Day: 1 May
Assumption Day: 15 August
National Holiday: October 12
All Saints’ Day: November 1
Spanish Constitution Day: December 6
Christmas: December 25
Opening hours
Shops: Usually Monday to Saturday from 9:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. and from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Many shops close at noon for a siesta.
Supermarkets: Mostly daily from 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m., some also on Sundays.
Restaurants: Lunch from 13:00 to 15:30, dinner from 20:00 to 23:00.
Banks: Monday to Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
Supermarkets
Eroski: Carrer de l’Agulla, 82, 07590 Cala Ratjada, Opening hours: Daily from 9:00 am to 9:00 pm
Lidl: Avenida Joan March, s/n, 07500 Manacor, (about 30 minutes by car from Cala Ratjada), opening hours: Daily from 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.
Mercadona: Via Palma, 07500 Manacor, (about 30 minutes by car from Cala Ratjada), opening hours: Monday to Saturday from 9:00 a.m. to 9:30 p.m.
Spar: Carrer d’elionor Servera, 42, 07590 Cala Ratjada, Opening hours: Daily from 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Airport
Palma de Mallorca Airport (PMI): About 80 km from Cala Ratjada
NUDISM
Official nudist beaches: Playa de Son Moll, Playa de Sa Mesquida
Post / Stamps
Post Offices: There is a post office in Cala Ratjada. Opening hours: Monday to Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., Saturday from 9:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
Stamps: Available at post offices, tobacconists (estancos) and kiosks.
Costs for letters and postcards to Germany: Standard letter up to 20g: approx. 1.50 EUR; Postcard: approx. 1.20 EUR
Safety
Crime: Cala Ratjada is considered relatively safe. Nevertheless, as everywhere: Pay attention to personal belongings, especially on beaches and in tourist areas.
Emergency number: 112
Current
Voltage: 230 volts
Sockets: Type F (as in Germany)
Tip
Restaurants: 5-10% of the invoice amount
Taxis: Round up the amount
Hotels: 1-2 euros per day for cleaning staff
Customs
Allowances within the EU: No customs restrictions on personal belongings.
Alcohol: Maximum 10 liters of spirits, 20 liters of alcoholic beverages with less than 22%, 90 liters of wine, 110 liters of beer.
Tobacco: 800 cigarettes, 400 cigarillos, 200 cigars, 1 kg of tobacco.
While tourists relax on the beach, numerous criminals take the opportunity to break into houses and apartments. After all, the peak travel season always ensures that the corresponding objects are uninhabited and often unguarded. The good news, however, is that house and apartment owners are not completely defenseless against the risk of being stolen.
As is so often the case, there are some tips that can help you to live through the holiday season without burglary or vandalism if possible. But what exactly should those who have resolved to protect themselves and their property pay attention to? The following sections answer these and other questions in detail.
Although there is of course never a 100% guarantee that nothing will happen, there are some ways to enjoy your holiday a little more relaxed.
“What does it actually look like at my home right now?” – This question is probably asked by many who are enjoying a cool drink at the pool bar. After all, reports of burglaries during the holiday season often cause some tourists to feel uneasy about leaving their apartment or house alone for several days. Those who get to know a surveillance camera in comparison have the chance to find out which model best meets their individual requirements. In this context, it is of course particularly practical that there are now numerous devices that can be paired via an app and are able to transfer the recorded images to the smartphone.
Tip No. 2: Agreements with the neighbors
A good neighborhood is worth a lot. Of course, this is not only evident in “normal everyday life”, but also during the holiday season.
Anyone who, for example, on the beach in Barbados can rely on those who live right next door to take care of emptying the mailbox, but at the same time be attentive when something seems strange, benefits from the good feeling that their property is protected – to a certain extent. In most cases, such neighbourhood services are likely to be reciprocal.
And basically, of course, it is important to know your own limits and not to endanger yourself. This means that if an attentive person discovers that a burglar is sneaking around his neighbor’s house, it is always better to call the police instead of checking on it yourself.
Tip No. 3: Light installations with timers
The interplay of light and shadow plays an important role in the living area, and not only from a visual point of view. Anyone who wants to combine artificial light with the topic of security has a wide range of options – including in the smart home sector.
For example, a timer can be used to determine that rooms are illuminated at a certain time and thus look livelier. This is exactly what deters numerous burglars.
The problem behind this is that if you opt for a classic timer, you can usually only enter fixed times. Attentive burglars who keep an eye on the objects they want to enter for a few days could quickly become skeptical here and realize that no one is there.
Therefore, it is often worthwhile to rely on devices that can be paired with the smartphone. They can be switched on and off via the mobile devices whenever desired – provided there is an appropriate connection. This irregularity then looks much more realistic.
Tip No. 4: B2B (after consultation with the landlord)
Who claimed that an apartment should actually be unused during the absence of a tenant or owner? Many people have not gotten into the habit of making their living space available to other tourists over the course of time.
Of course, it is important to clarify this with the landlord. If they agree, it is even possible to earn a little extra money during the holiday. At the same time, the tenant or the owner of the apartment can be sure that the respective property will not be completely empty during his or her absence.
If you think of holidays in Africa, Kenya is usually among the top travel destinations. The country between mountains, savannah and ocean is versatile, adventurous and has a variety of experiences and impressions in store for its visitors. The nature here is more diverse than in almost any other place in the world and the inhabitants are open, warm and hospitable. Kenya has been an independent country from Great Britain since 1963 and is now home to around 47 million people. The airport through which most tourists reach the country is located in the capital Nairobi. Occasionally, there are also direct flights from Germany to Mombasa on the Indian Ocean.
The Masai Mara National Park – a paradise spared from poachers
Located in southern Kenya, Maisai Mara National Park embodies everything you imagine Africa to be. On 1500 square kilometers, you will find one of the most animal-rich and scenic areas in the country. The Masai Mara National Park consists mainly of savannah, which is crossed by so-called inselbergs. In this national park, visitors can get up close and personal with native species such as leopards, rhinos, lions, buffaloes, and elephants. It is best to plan your visit to the Masai Mara National Park between July and September, as the animals then make their journey from the north of the park to the south and can be observed excellently at the waterholes along the way.
Nairobi – the vibrant capital of Kenya
Zebras in Masai Mara National Park, Image: travelview / shutterstock
Even though Kenya is largely known for its stunning wildlife and scenery, the capital city of Nairobi is well worth a visit. This is where most tourists end up anyway and on a tour of the city there are many exciting places to discover and interesting facts about the country and its people. Nairobi is a vibrant city with over 3 million inhabitants and is also correspondingly varied for its visitors.
A visit to the Kenyan National Museum is particularly worthwhile. An impressive variety of cultural and natural history exhibits as well as Kenyan art are displayed here.
Another special attraction of the city is without question the Nairobi National Park. Just 7 kilometres from the centre of the city, this national park is separated from Nairobi by a fence and is home to lions, ostriches and hippos. The park specialises in endangered species and is one of the last refuges for the highly endangered black rhinoceros.
Amboseli National Park – Refuge for Elephants
Masai Mara National Park, Image: Andre Marais / shutterstock
The oldest national park in Kenya, the Amboseli National Park is also one of the largest protected areas in the country with an extension of 390 square kilometers. Its stunning scenery is overlooked by the backdrop of the Kilimanjaro massif, and thanks to the tireless conservation efforts of the local Masai, this national park has been largely spared from poachers. That’s why visitors to Amboseli National Park will find a unique biodiversity. One of the highlights of the park is an impressive elephant population of over 800 individuals that roam the park in small groups.
Lake Nakuru National Park – breathtaking lake scenery
Flamingos in Lake Bogoria National Park, Image: pornpoj / shutterstock
Lake Nakuru National Park covers an area of 188 square kilometers around the shores of Lake Nakuru and is one of the most visited national parks in Kenya after the Masai Mara. The center of the park is Lake Nakuru itself, which is only deeper than 4 meters in a few places and is therefore one of the shallowest waters of its size. Another special feature of the park is the almost endless flocks of flamingos that populate the lake’s shores. Over 4 million of the colorful birds live here and are the park’s landmark. In addition to the flamingos, Lake Nakuru National Park is also one of the last refuges for the endangered black rhinos. They live here under the watchful eye of the rangers who protect them from poachers.
Beach holiday in Kenya – the most beautiful beaches
Image: BlueOrange Studio / shutterstock
Even though most visitors come to Kenya for the safaris in the national parks, the country has a lot more to offer. The long coastline of the Indian Ocean hides some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, perfect for relaxing, sunbathing and unwinding. However, it is important to know that there are strong ebb and flow phenomena on the Kenyan coast.
If you stay in a beach hotel, you will be well informed about this, if you visit a beach on your own, it is best to communicate with the locals about the current situation. One of the most beautiful beaches in Kenya and most famous in the world is Diani Beach. It is located 25 kilometres south of the port city of Mombasa and welcomes its visitors with a 12-kilometre-long, white and fine sandy beach. The infrastructure here is very well developed and there are a large number of hotels. Especially in the south of Kenya there are countless other dream beaches, because there the coast is protected from the surf by a coral reef. The beaches on the north coast of Kenya, on the other hand, are rather wild.
Holidays in Kenya: Important information
Important telephone numbers
Police: 999
Fire brigade: 999
Ambulance: 999
German Embassy in Nairobi: +254 20 426 2100
Doctors in the most important places
Nairobi:
Dr. Markus Reichenberger: The Nairobi Hospital, +254 20 284 5000
Dr. Alfred Murage: Aga Khan University Hospital, +254 20 366 2000
Mombasa:
Dr. Chris Wambugu: Mombasa Hospital, +254 41 231 2191
Dr. Amina Abdalla: Aga Khan Hospital Mombasa, +254 41 231 3951
Kisumu:
Dr. Emmanuel Obondi: Aga Khan Hospital Kisumu, +254 57 202 8885
Dr. Peter Khasakhala: Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Teaching and Referral Hospital, +254 57 202 2215
Important words with translation
Hello – Jambo
Thank you – Asante
Please – Tafadhali
Yes – Ndiyo
No – Hapana
Sorry – Pole
Where is…? – Wapi…?
How much does it cost…? – At gani…?
Emergency – Dharura
Doctor – Daktari
Hospital – Hospitali
Holidays
New Year’s Day: January 1
Labour Day: 1 May
Madaraka Day: June 1
Mashujaa Day: October 20
Jamhuri Day: December 12
Christmas: December 25
Boxing Day: December 26
Easter Sunday and Easter Monday: variable (March/April)
Idd-ul-Fitr: variable (depending on the Islamic calendar)
Opening hours
Shops: Usually Monday to Saturday from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Supermarkets: Usually daily from 8:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.
Restaurants: Lunch from 12:00 to 15:00, dinner from 18:00 to 22:00.
Banks: Monday to Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., Saturday from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
Airport
Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO): In Nairobi
Moi International Airport (MBA): In Mombasa
Kisumu International Airport (KIS): In Kisumu
NUDISM
Not common: There are no official nudist beaches in Kenya. Nudism is not practiced and could be considered offensive.
Post / Stamps
Post Offices: In all major cities. Opening hours: Monday to Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Saturday from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
Stamps: Available at post offices and kiosks.
Costs for letters and postcards to Germany: Standard letter up to 20g: approx. 150 KES; Postcard: approx. 100 KES
Safety
Crime: Kenya has a relatively high crime rate. It is recommended to always be vigilant, especially in larger cities and tourist areas. Valuables should be kept safe.
Emergency number: 999
Current
Voltage: 240 volts
Sockets: Type G (British standard). Adapter required for European plugs.
Tip
Restaurants: 10% of the invoice amount
Taxis: Round up the amount
Hotels: $1-2 per day for cleaning staff
Customs
Allowances: Personal belongings are duty-free.
Alcohol: Maximum 1 liter of spirits or 2 liters of wine.
Tobacco: 200 cigarettes or 50 cigars or 250g of tobacco.
Montenegro (Crna Gora – Black Mountains) may be the smallest republic to emerge from the former Yugoslavia, but it is also one of the most diverse holiday destinations in Europe. Away from the mass tourism of many Mediterranean holiday regions, Montenegro surprises with wonderfully rustic forests, a quiet mountain world, cozy mountain villages, mountain lakes and wonderful beaches.
Montenegro is located on the southeastern Adriatic coast and borders Croatia, Bosnia-Herzegovina, Serbia, Kosovo and Albania. Montenegro was once independent as a principality and kingdom. In the First World War, Montenegro fought on the side of Serbia, whereupon Montenegro was under Austro-Hungarian occupation from 1916 to 1918. After that, Montenegro became part of the Kingdom of Yugoslavia.
Montenegro regained its independence in 1941, but became a constituent republic of the socialist Federal Republic of Yugoslavia after World War II. Montenegro’s renewed independence could only be achieved after the Yugoslav War. After all the turmoil, the citizens of Montenegro are proud to have regained their independence. Since 17 December 2010, Montenegro has also been an official candidate for accession to the EU.
Even though Montenegro is not a member of the European Monetary Union, the euro has been the country’s official currency since 2002. In addition, Montenegro was declared the world’s first environmental state in 1991, because the country is aware of its natural treasures and tries to protect them. The country’s magnificent landscapes are also known for the 21st James Bond film “Casino Royale”.
Montenegro’s Attractions
The charming Montenegro inspires not only with its beautiful beaches and fascinating landscapes inland, but also with many sights in a small area. In addition to natural sights, the country also shines with historical sites.
The Bay of Kotor
Port of Perast, Image: eFesenko / shutterstock
Like a fjord, the Bay of Kotor extends inland. Along the bay there are picturesque places that invite you to linger. In the bay, the monastery island of Sveti Djorde attracts visitors with a historic cemetery. On the neighboring island of Gospa od Skrpjela, on the other hand, there is a pilgrimage church worth seeing. Both islands belong to the area of the small town of Perast, which is known for its beautiful old town with numerous townhouses and palaces.
In addition, the city offers a particularly high number of hours of sunshine and a pleasantly mild climate. Also worthwhile is a visit to the port city of Kotor, which is known as the country’s supra-regional cultural center. Due to its important buildings and its beautiful natural location, Kotor was listed by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site and Natural Heritage Site as early as 1979. In the picturesque old town, buildings worth seeing such as the Romanesque St. Typhon Cathedral, the Romanesque St. Luke’s Church and some well-preserved palaces from the 18th century attract visitors. Other charming cities in the country are Herceg Novi, Bar, Tivat, Budva and of course the capital Podgorica.
Montenegro’s Forest and Mountain Landscapes
The Crnojević River, Image: RnDmS / shutterstock
Durmitor National Park offers a fantastic landscape. Characterised by the mountain massif of the same name, magnificent forests and sapphire-blue mountain lakes, the area is suitable for an active holiday all year round. While hikers and nature lovers can enjoy the idyllic landscape in the warm season, the area attracts winter sports enthusiasts in the winter months.
The Tara Gorge is one of the most famous sights in the country in Durmitor National Park. It is one of the most pristine river valleys in Europe and is also the longest and deepest gorge in Europe. With a length of 78 km and a depth of over 1,300 m, it is also one of the largest gorges in the world. The numerous rapids and cascades of the crystal-clear river offer good conditions for rafting. In addition, the waterfalls of the gorge, some of which have a drop height of 60 m, are inspiring.
Natural beaches for relaxing hours
Plaža Ulcinj – the family beach
View of Kotor, Image: S-F / shutterstock
Along the Adriatic Sea, Montenegro inspires with fine sandy beaches. The longest sandy beach in Montenegro is Velika Plaža Ulcinj. Here you can enjoy the typical beach life with plenty of space for sunbathing, playing and sporting activities. The beach stretches all the way to the Albanian border, where Ulcinj, the southernmost holiday resort in the country, is located. The beach is also popular with water sports enthusiasts.
Bečići – Caribbean feeling for relaxing hours
At 1.8 km, Bečići is a beach that stands out for its beautiful ambience. The rather coarse-grained sand is very pleasant and the water here is turquoise blue. Since the beach is not overcrowded, you can spend wonderful hours here.
The beaches of Petrovac – a special treat
Perast, Image: canadastock / shutterstock
Reddish sand, light water and dreamlike wooded cliffs characterize the beaches of Petrovac. If you enjoy the beach here, you will be thrilled, because even if there are one or the other section with beach bars and umbrellas, it is worth strolling along the beaches, because here you can still find ancient stone houses, which underlines the special charm of the beaches. However, most of the beaches are natural and are also part of an extensive bird sanctuary.
Montenegrin cuisine
Montenegro’s cuisine presents itself with an astonishing variety. Influenced by Italian, Austrian, Serbian, Turkish and Hungarian cuisine, Montenegro is a great place to feast. Of course, it is worth enjoying traditional Balkan cuisine. Here, among other things, the spicy, hearty minced meat dishes such as Pljeskavica are recommended. But Montenegrin cuisine is also characterized by its fish dishes. Among other things, there are also fantastic carp dishes on the menus. Traditional mountain dishes such as cicvara, a dish made of wheat and corn flour with cheese, are also a speciality of the country.
Our tip: e-illustrated book
e-illustrated book with short texts on a journey to the sights of MONTENEGRO such as Kotor, Perast, Budva, Petrovac, Tivat, Cetinje, Podgoricia, Stari Bar, Kolasin, monasteries such as Ostrog or Moraca, Lake Skadar, Biogradska Gora National Park and the mountains in the interior, the Lustica peninsula, beaches and idyllic bays on the Adriatic Sea.
Laos – The narrow, elongated country is practically “wedged” between Thailand and Vietnam. Tourism here is not (yet) as pronounced as in most neighboring countries. One reason for this could be that Laos has no access to the sea and therefore a beach holiday is not feasible for many travellers. However, if you decide not to travel here because of this, you are missing out on a lot!
The originality of the country is what makes Laos what it is. A visit is therefore attractive, for example, for those who attach less importance to luxury hotels or other tourist amenities, but are looking for authentic Asian tranquility, courtesy and hospitality. Numerous (not overcrowded) sights and interesting regions are available and are just waiting to be explored.
Laos can be easily reached by plane from several surrounding Asian countries. There are a total of four international airports in the larger cities. However, the most frequented is the airport of the capital Vientiane. Another option is to enter the country overland from one of the neighboring countries of Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia, Myanmar or China in the far north. Entry from Thailand in the form of bus transfers is particularly easy and frequently used. These can be booked in advance at many travel desks, are cheap and usually work without any problems.
Landscape and climate of the Southeast Asian country
The topography of Laos is easy to describe. From north to south, the country is almost continuously crisscrossed by sometimes higher, sometimes flatter mountain regions. Only on the southern and southwestern border with Thailand is there a flat or lowland, which also houses the capital Vientiane.
Anyone who has already traveled to surrounding countries such as Thailand or Vietnam is familiar with the Southeast Asian climate and will not experience any surprises. The climate in Laos does not differ from the rest of the region. The months from November to about the end of March are also the best time to travel here. During this period, the rainy season is over and the hot summer months have not yet been reached. So there is a relatively pleasant climate with little rain and not too warm temperatures between about 27 and 30 degrees Celsius. In the high mountain regions, it can sometimes be relatively cool, which should be taken into account when choosing clothing.
Laos’ culture – Buddhism and above all a lot of peace and serenity
Pha That Luang, Image: SmileKorn / shutterstock
Laos is shaped by Buddhism and monks in particular enjoy the highest recognition. Visitors can experience this, for example, at one of the daily alms ceremonies, where locals kneel on the side of the road and offer food and drinks to passing monks. Just like in neighboring countries, respectful treatment of people and nature is a top priority here. However, one thing always stands out during a stay in Laos: the peace and quiet. Stress simply does not seem to be present in the way of life of the locals.
The main attractions
Patuxai, Vientiane Arc de Triomphe, Image: Mazur Travel / shutterstock
Laos offers a variety of sights in the different regions. You should take enough time to get from A to B, because the road network is sometimes poorly developed or in poor condition, which can lead to longer travel times.
A visit to Vientiane, the capital and largest city of the country, is a must, so to speak. With a population of about 350,000 and over 800,000 (in the metropolitan area), it is located directly on the border with Thailand. The historic city is the center of Laos both politically and culturally. Despite the big city, it is also very relaxed here. Scattered around the city are many buildings from the long-gone French colonial era. It is worth exploring the city by bike, stopping at the Pha Tha Luang Stupa (the country’s national symbol) or the Wat Si Saket temple, for example. The latter amazes with its large number of Buddha statues. Before heading to one of the markets or eating at a food stall in the evening, you should pay a visit to Patuxai Park and admire the Patuxai Victory Monument.
Kuang Si Waterfall, Image: Preto Perola / shutterstock
The city of Luang Prabang in the north is one of the most important hubs of the mountainous region. The city itself is very worth seeing. In particular, the old town, which has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1995. An unforgettable view can be obtained after climbing Mount Phou Si, which is located in the center of the city. From a height of 150 meters, there is a magnificent view over the city, which is especially ingenious during sunset. The area around Luang Prabang is known for its exceptionally beautiful nature. There are several waterfalls here, all of which can easily serve as a postcard motif. Among the most famous are the largest waterfall Kuang Si at 50 meters and the beautiful Tad Sae waterfall.
Wat Xieng Khuan Buddha Park, Image: Perfect Lazybones / shutterstock
In the far south, near the border with Cambodia, is Pakse, the third largest city in the country. Even though a visit to this city is worthwhile, the real highlight of this region is the Mekong with its islands. During a boat trip on the mighty river, you will not only discover thousands of small (partly inhabited) islands, but you can also enjoy unique nature and even see the UNESCO World Heritage Site Wat Phu (mountain temple). With a bit of luck, you can even see a few splashing dolphins here and there. Really in the very south, just before the border with Cambodia, are the two most famous and popular islands for travelers. On Don Det and Don Khon (which are connected by a bridge) you can fully enjoy the Laotian serenity paired with unique island charm, unwind and prepare for an onward journey to Cambodia, for example.
Important information about Laos
Important telephone numbers
Police: 191
Fire brigade: 190
Ambulance service: 195
German Embassy in Vientiane: +856 21 312 110
German Doctors
Dr. Olivier Schwab: Alliance International Medical Centre, Vientiane, +856 21 513 095
Dr. Stefan Gössling: Vientiane International Clinic, Vientiane, +856 21 254 833
Important words with translation
Hello – ສະບາຍດີ (Sabaidee)
Thank you – ຂອບໃຈ (Khob chai)
Please – ກະລຸນາ (Kaluna)
Yes – ແມ່ນແລ້ວ (Muen laew)
No – ບໍ່ (Bo)
Sorry – ຂໍໂທດ (Khor thoad)
Where is…? – … ຢູ່ໃສ? (… Yuu Sai?)
How much does it cost…? – ລາຄາເທົ່າໃດ? (Lahka tao dai?)
Emergency – ສຸກເສີນ (Sukseun)
Doctor – ຫມໍ (Moh)
Hospital – ໂຮງຫມໍ (Hong moh)
Holidays
New Year’s Day: January 1
Lao New Year (Pi Mai): April 13 to 15
Labour Day: 1 May
Boun Bang Fai (Rocket Festival): variable (May)
Independence Day: December 2
Christmas: December 25
Opening hours
Shops: Usually daily from 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.
Supermarkets: Usually daily from 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.
Restaurants: Lunch from 11:00 to 14:00, dinner from 18:00 to 21:00.
Banks: Monday to Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Airport
Wattay International Airport (VTE): 3 km west of Vientiane
NUDISM
Not common: There are no official nudist beaches in Laos. Nudism is not practiced and could be considered offensive.
Post / Stamps
Post Offices: In all major cities. Opening hours: Monday to Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Stamps: Available at post offices and kiosks.
Costs for letters and postcards to Germany: Standard letter up to 20g: approx. 15,000 LAK; Postcard: approx. 12,000 LAK
Safety
Crime: Laos is considered relatively safe. Observe the usual precautions as in any city.
Papua New Guinea is the eastern part of the island of New Guinea, the second largest island in the world. The West belongs to Indonesia. In total, Papua New Guinea consists of 600 other smaller islands in addition to the main island. This includes the Bismarck Chip, New Britain and New Ireland. Papua New Guinea is above all a very natural, original island state. Steep mountain regions and active volcanoes emerge from the tropical rainforests.
Image: sevenMaps7 / shutterstock
The coasts are made up of swamps and mangrove forests. The mountainous volcanic island is still a popular destination for ethnologists today: up to 1000 cultural groups cavort here. Linguistically, this region is one of the most diverse in the world, with more than 820 languages spoken in Papua New Guinea.
The country is still largely untouched and seems to be stuck in the Stone Age: In the island state, men still hunt with spears, animist cults continue to be cultivated. Tourists who just want to lie lazily on the beach should stay away from Papua New Guinea. Real explorers who are also willing to take on hardships and can do without the comforts of civilization for a few days will get their money’s worth here.
The Cities of Papua New Guinea – Points of Light within the Jungle
Rabaul near the volcano Tavurvur, Image: Tetyana Dotsenko / shutterstock
The first port of call for many travelers is the capital Port Moresby. It is located on the south coast of the island state. Here you will find some hotels, restaurants and a similar city life as in Indonesia“>Indonesia. The Parliament Building in Port Moresby was inaugurated by Prince Charles in 1984 and combines elements of modern and traditional architectural styles. In the suburb of Waigani, the National Museum and Art Gallery is open to anyone interested in art and the country’s 50,000-year history.
Discover Papua New Guinea at your own risk
Image: Keith Michael Taylor / shutterstock
The cities of the country are not the main attraction, but the island, its nature and its inhabitants. After all, the majority of the population of Papua New Guinea lives in the countryside. However, the Foreign Office advises against wanting to discover the island on your own. Most of the country is untouched and does not court travelers with cheap hotels or hiking trails prepared for tourists. Travelers are best joined by a group led through the country by experienced guides. As already indicated, exploring the country can be associated with some strains. It will certainly not be a walk in the park. In addition, even though most of the inhabitants are very friendly, there have been robberies from time to time. It’s safer in a group.
Discover nature on the Kodoka Trail
Raja Ampat, Image: Ethan Daniels / shutterstock
Port Moresby is where the Kodoka Trail begins. The 96-kilometer hiking trail takes travelers through the dense jungle and over the Owen Stanley Mountains. A good 700 bird species of the country can be seen. In addition, relics from the 2nd World War occasionally line the path: old tanks, landing craft and planes. Australia andJapan fought battles here. Other popular hiking trails would be the Kopianga Lake-Oksapmin Trail or the Black Cat Track.
An alternative is the voyage of discovery on the Sepik River. With a simple boat, you can visit the various villages of the country and marvel at the flora and fauna from the water.
The Highland tribes and their festivals
Traditional canoe driven by a boy in Tufi, Image: Tetyana Dotsenko / shutterstock
You really arrived in Papua New Guinea only in the highlands. This is where the original peoples of the country live, for example the Huli, also called “Wig men” because of the wigs. The highland tribes celebrate a wide variety of festivals every year. The “Sing-Sing” is the largest of them. If you find yourself in the city of Goroka in September, you can’t miss this festival. Up to 150 tribes come together at the Sing-Sing and present their folk songs. They wear the traditional clothing of their village, such as elaborately designed skirts and masks. Apart from the sing-sing, the peoples celebrate many other colourful festivals, such as dance festivals or compensation rituals, in which roast pork is eaten in an earth oven – a speciality of the country – to settle disputes.
The highlands also have natural beauties to offer. For example, the Kutubu Lake or the Wasi Waterfalls. On Mt. Wilhelm has a wonderful view of the island.
Diving in Papua New Guinea’s Coasts
Diving in Milne Bay, Image: zaferkizilkaya / shutterstock
The country is a paradise for divers. The coastal strips are lined with numerous archipelagos and reliefs. Mangroves, coral reefs and lagoons invite you to dive and swim here. Many shipwrecks are also hidden on the seabed, many of them from the 2nd World War. Papua New Guinea’s coasts should be interesting not only for divers, but also for surfers, including on the north coast of Vanimo or near Port Moresby.
Volcanoes and ash
Volcanoes shape the shape of Papua New Guinea. In the Bismarck Sea alone, divers can discover about 100 volcanoes. Rabaul, the capital of the province of East New Britain on the island of New Britain, has itself been hit several times in recent history by the nearby volcanoes Tavurvur and Vulcan. Both volcanoes are still active today. Large parts of the city are covered in ash, many of the residents had to be resettled.
More impressions Papua New Guinea
Conflict-Inseln, Bild: Dumitrescu Mircea / shutterstock
Bild: Stanislav Solovkin / shutterstock
Bild: jappasta / shutterstock
Mount Wilhelm, Bild: Michal Knitl / shutterstock
Bild: attiarndt / shutterstock
Huli in traditioneller Kleidung und Bemalung, Bild: Amy Nichole Harris / shutterstock
Holidays in Papua New Guinea: Important information
Important telephone numbers
Emergency numbers: 111 (police, fire brigade, rescue service)
Embassy of Germany in Port Moresby: +675 321 1022
Doctors
Dr. Barry Kirby: Pacific International Hospital, 3 Mile, Port Moresby, +675 323 4400
Dr. John Kaupa: Paradise Private Hospital, Taurama Road, Boroko, Port Moresby, +675 325 6022
Important words with translation
Hello – Halo
Thank you – Tenkyu
Please – Plis
Yes – Yes
No – Nogat
Sorry – Sori
Where is…? – We em…?
How much does it cost…? – Hamas em i kostim…?
Emergency – Emergensi
Doctor – Dokta
Hospital – House sik
Holidays
New Year’s Day: January 1
Good Friday: variable (March/April)
Easter Monday: variable (March/April)
Queen’s birthday: Second Monday in June
Independence Day: September 16
Christmas: December 25
Boxing Day: December 26
Opening hours
Shops: Usually Monday to Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Saturday from 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
Supermarkets: Usually daily from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Restaurants: Lunch from 12:00 to 14:00, dinner from 18:00 to 21:00.
Banks: Monday to Friday from 8:45 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Airport
Jacksons International Airport (POM): In Port Moresby
NUDISM
Not common: There are no official nudist beaches in Papua New Guinea. Nudism is not practiced and could be considered offensive.
Post / Stamps
Post Offices: In all major cities. Opening hours: Monday to Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Stamps: Available at post offices and kiosks.
Costs for letters and postcards to Germany: Standard letter up to 20g: approx. 6 PGK; Postcard: approx. 4 PGK
Safety
Crime: Papua New Guinea has a relatively high crime rate. It is recommended to be vigilant at all times, especially in larger cities. Valuables should be kept safe.
Emergency number: 111
Current
Voltage: 240 volts
Sockets: Type I (as in Australia). Adapter required for European plugs.
Tip
Not common: Tipping is not expected in Papua New Guinea. However, excellent service can be rewarded with a small amount.
e-illustrated book with short texts on a journey to the sights of MONTENEGRO such as Kotor, Perast, Budva, Petrovac, Tivat, Cetinje, Podgoricia, Stari Bar, Kolasin, monasteries such as Ostrog or Moraca, Lake Skadar, Biogradska Gora National Park and the mountains in the interior, the Lustica peninsula, beaches and idyllic bays on the Adriatic Sea.
