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Kentucky – Whiskey, Barbecue and Jazz

The bluegrass state of Kentucky in the central-eastern part of the USA enjoys great fame beyond the country’s borders. Even though it is not actually a historical southern state, many people associate the southern states with this state. The “Commonwealth of Kentucky” is particularly famous not only for its barbecues and culinary specialties, but especially for the production of American whiskey. Bourbon originated here and even today many of the most famous whiskey brands from the States are closely associated with the state. But there is more to see than old distilleries and steakhouses.

Pure nature in the green Commonwealth of Kentucky

Louisville, Ohio River
The skyline of Louisville on the Ohio River, Image: Sean Pavone / shutterstock

If you are looking for impressive historical sights or a lot of entertainment, Kentucky is probably the wrong place for you. The state is considered one of the green meadows of the USA especially because of its nature and it is the sights of nature that attract vacationers from the USA but also from the rest of the world to the state. The name Bluegrass State, for example, comes from a special coloring of the meadows in autumn, when the extensive grassland shimmers almost blue. Even the Native Americans discovered these peculiarities for themselves and before their expulsion, countless tribes could be found in the fertile land.

The most important cities include the capital of the state, Frankfort, as well as the cities of Louisville and Lexington. Especially in the vicinity of Louisville there are many historic buildings and it is not for nothing that the city has built up the reputation of being a metropolis for country music and jazz. Beyond that, however, urbanization in Kentucky is rather low. Small villages and towns lead along the busiest roads in the state and holidaymakers will quickly find that they are welcomed with intense hospitality, especially here. One more reason why you don’t necessarily have to spend the night in the cities, but can also work your way through Kentucky on your own.

The most beautiful sights in the vast nature of Kentucky

Mammoth Cave National Park, Kentucky
Mammoth Cave National Park, Image: ukawajung / shutterstock

Mammoth Cave National Park is certainly one of the things you should see when visiting Kentucky. It is one of the areas where human activity can be detected well before the year 0 on the American continent. The underground caves are considered to be the most extensive area of their kind and finds by indigenous people probably date back up to 6,000 years. Between the 19. and In the 20th century, it was businessmen and slaves who explored the caves and painted them on the first maps. Over time, the caves with their underground waterfalls and the River Styx developed into a sight to see and have remained so to this day.

Not quite the Grand Canyons, but still an impressive area of canyons and the work of the Red River, is the Red River Gorge. A paradise for climbers and hikers, who can work their way along the bulges that the river of the same name has left in the landscape over millions of years and is now considered one of the most impressive natural spectacles in the state.

If you are looking for beautiful destinations for the hike, you should pay a visit to the Cumberland Falls. The falls in the southeastern part of Kentucky are now a state park in their own right and are crisscrossed by hiking routes that are well suited for both hikers and cyclists. The highlight, of course, are the many small and large waterfalls that the Cumberland River feeds and that run like a swath through the green landscape.

Experience Kentucky’s historic landmarks and culture

As a link between the southern and northern states, Kentucky is of course also an important part of US history and has some landmarks to offer that are worth a visit. For example, there is the Abraham Lincoln Birthplace National Historical Park, which commemorates the birthplace of the famous president. Not only the replica of the former huts is interesting, but also the memorial square that was built and the museum, which deals with the life of the so important president, whose work is of course also strongly connected with the fate of the northern and southern states.

The famous Fort Knox is also worth a visit, although you shouldn’t hope to catch a glimpse of the gold that is supposedly stored here. It is above all a historical museum for the history of the place. In addition, there are many works of the famous whiskey brands in the area that can be visited. But here, too, the expectation should not be that you are allowed to come to a whiskey tasting. This is forbidden in these works and no alcohol may be poured out to the visitors.

Finally, of course, you should also have seen the beautiful cities of Kentucky, with Livingston standing out in particular. The city is still a center of culture in the United States and has a particularly active nightlife with bars and music. In addition, it is home to many famous museums, which can boast exhibits from the history of the USA and especially the southern states, as well as dealing with exactly how jazz and country music came to Livingston.

Wolfsburg, a young and up-and-coming city in Lower Saxony

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Wolfsburg – the beautiful city is located on the eastern edge of Lower Saxony. When you think of Wolfsburg, the car manufacturer Volkswagen immediately comes to mind. Originally, the city was founded in 1938 for this very purpose – this is where the company’s employees were to live. Today, it not only attracts car enthusiasts, but is also the perfect destination for the whole family, nature lovers and sports enthusiasts.

Arrival and accommodation

Volkswagen Arena, Wolfsburg
The Volkswagen Arena, Image: © WMG Wolfsburg, Tim Schulze

The best way to get there is by car or train. From the south, the A39 leads from Braunschweig to the western part of the city, via Braunschweiger Straße or Heinrich-Nordhoff-Straße you can reach the heart of Wolfsburg within a few minutes. If you are travelling from the northwest, you will come to the northern part of the city on the B 188. The main train station is located opposite the Autostadt, directly on the riverbank. The Hanover-Berlin high-speed line makes a stop here. Intercity and Intercity-Express trains from numerous major German cities also stop in Wolfsburg several times a day.

  • The Courtyard by Marriott Wolfsburg**** superior is an ideal hotel for an optimal stay, it is located in the middle of the Allerpark, with a panoramic view of the beautiful Allersee and sandy beach. For those interested in football, the Volkswagen Arena is within sight and can be reached in just a few minutes’ walk. This makes the Courtyard by Marriott the perfect place to stay for football fans and adventure seekers.
  • The luxury hotel The Ritz-Carlton, Wolfsburg is a slightly higher-priced place to stay when you pick up a vehicle, but it’s worth its hefty price tag with its spa offerings, unique artwork, and gourmet restaurants.
  • On the opposite side of the shore of the Allersee there is a spacious campsite in a quiet location. Behind the square, the Mittelland Canal flows along, several bridges lead over the crystal-clear water and invite you to go for a walk or a bike ride.
  • For wellness enthusiasts, we recommend the Hotel An der Wasserburg. Conveniently and centrally located, the hotel scores with 59 non-smoking rooms, a pool and a relaxed atmosphere in the gold bar.
  • If you like it quiet and familiar, you will feel at home in the Hotel Fallersleber Spieker in the old town of Fallersleb. The 48-room hotel scores with a rich breakfast buffet.

Our tip: Book a guided tour of the city so that you don’t miss any of the Wolfsburg highlights. Further information on sights, city tours and travel offers can be found on the portal wolfsburg-reisen.de.

What you should definitely see in Wolfsburg

  • View of the Autostadt
    View of the Autostadt, © WMG Wolfsburg, Tim Schulze

    The most famous sight and highlight of Wolfsburg is clearly the Autostadt. Due to its central location in the city, it is easy to reach. One of the largest amusement parks in Germany stretches over an area of 28 hectares. The two glass car towers can be seen from afar, and inside there are new VW cars on 20 floors. Hundreds of buyers pick up their new cars in the Autostadt every day.

    In addition to lush green spaces, landscaped ponds and benches, there are several exhibition rooms with novelties and museums that exhibit models from past times. If you have a driver’s license and want to sit behind the wheel of an SUV, such as a Touareg or Amarok, you should definitely take an off-road drive with a professionally trained trainer. You can also successfully master the off-road course right next door or book a guided ride through the city centre with the latest models.

  • Since 2007, the city has had a Designer Outlet. On almost 18,000 m² of sales space and in over 90 stores, world-famous brand products can be purchased.
  • If you want fun and action, you should definitely visit the Allerpark. There is a lot to discover for young and old on the grounds of the adventure park. In addition to sporting attractions such as the EisArena, the BadeLand, numerous outdoor fitness equipment, a high ropes course and beach volleyball courts, there is a huge beach, several restaurants with international cuisine and a footpath that leads once around the lake. A large car park on the Aller and in front of the Volkswagen Arena offer enough parking space.
  • In spring and summer months, cycling is one of the best sporting activities in the Wolfsburg area. From Magdeburg to Verden, the Aller Cycle Path runs parallel to the river that gives it its name.
  • Marvel, experiment, touch, inspire, fascinate – for over 15 years, the extraordinary phaeno world of experience has been a feast for the senses and captivates visitors far beyond the borders of Wolfsburg. Over 350 phenomena await you in a unique futuristic building, designed by world-renowned architect Zaha Hadid, which is one of the twelve most important modern buildings in the world.
  • Art lovers will find contemporary and modern art in the Kunstmuseum Wolfsburg. The museum, which opened in 1994, is home to works by artists such as Carl Andre, John M Armleder, Christian Boltanski, Helmut Federle, Gilbert & George, Douglas Gordon, Andreas Gursky, Damien Hirst, Anselm Kiefer, Gerhard Merz, Mario Merz, Bruce Nauman, Panamarenko, Julius Popp, Neo Rauch, Cindy Sherman and Jeff Wall. The collection comprises a total of more than 600 works.
  • People who are interested in the history and culture of the city will not miss out either. In and around the metropolis there are some castles and palaces to be found. The most popular are Wolfsburg Castle, after which the city was named, Neuhaus Castle and Fallersleben Castle. Wolfsburg Castle is located in the Alt-Wolfsburg district, where the historic city museum, the municipal gallery and the art association are located in addition to the building itself. Fallersleben moated castle and Neuhaus Castle can be visited by curious visitors. Today, both have their own museums and organize annual events and festivals.

Where to go after a busy day?

After an exciting day in Wolfsburg, it’s time for you to indulge in culinary delights:

  • Gourmets certainly think of Wolfsburg directly to the 3-star restaurant “Aqua” with chef Sven Elverfeld.
  • The best beers in the region can be found in the “Altes Brauhaus zu Fallleben” – where brewing is still done according to the German Purity Law. There are German classics to go with it. From Leberkäse to Sauerbraten
  • Creative, delicious and regional food awaits you at the Hotel & Restaurant Brackstedter Mühle. Our tip: The Brackstedt mill pan with medallions of beef, pork and veal – and hand-scraped spaetzle to go with it
  • Of course, you will also find an extensive selection of restaurants in the Autostadt. Particularly noteworthy are the in-house manufactories with delicious baked goods, the coffee roastery and the organic ice cream factory near the Škoda Pavilion.

A selection of other nice restaurants can be found in the Butler Gastronomy Guide

Result:

Wolfsburg is an up-and-coming modern city that became known far beyond Germany’s borders due to the automotive sector and the name Volkswagen. But they have now been able to convince themselves that the city has much more to offer. The city’s still youthful history makes it a unique specimen that everyone should have visited once or several times in their lives.

Thessaloniki – port city with flair

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Thessaloniki is a stunner just by looking at it: the city stretches along the sea to the Acropolis Hill with many small houses and is the second largest city in Greece. The metropolis is not regarded as such by the locals, but is seen as a traditional village with a lot of national pride.

If you stroll through the alleys and drift through the old town, you will notice that modernity meets the origins of the Byzantine era head-on here. Thessaloniki is hard to beat in terms of diversity. While the promenade along the harbor is very noble, relics of the Ottoman era can still be seen in the depths of the city. This special flair makes the city so worth seeing and brings a unique atmosphere.

How to get there

Platia Aristotelous
Platia Aristotelous, historical square in Thessaloniki, Image: Igor Zuikov / shutterstock

Thessaloniki can be reached in various ways by plane, car or long-distance buses – depending on your personal budget and the time available.
The larger German cities offer direct flights with which visitors can reach the city in about two and a half to a maximum of three hours flight time. From Thessaloniki Airport, buses or taxis take travelers to the city center – this option is time-saving and convenient.

There are also long-distance buses to Thessaloniki from large cities, which are usually relatively inexpensive, but also take a long time. However, if you are not pressed for time, you can travel quite comfortably and enjoyably with the bus companies. Most of the buses make a major stopover in Vienna and Bulgaria and are on the road for a total of around 30 hours.

Getting around the city

Exploring the city is quite easy, as the city network is compact and easily doable on foot. One tip is to start at the top and work your way down the beautiful alleys to the sea – this is especially advisable on hot days.
The bus network specialises in tourists with bus line 50 and runs along a “Cultural Route” to the most important sights at 16 stops. The ticket for this is very cheap and valid for 24 hours – the buses are correspondingly full.
Eight stops are also served by red hop-on hop-off buses, the use of which also includes audio guides for more detailed explanations of the sights.
If you are not good on foot and don’t feel like full buses in the high season, you can also resort to taxis in the classic way – but also a little deeper into your wallet.

Attractions in Thessaloniki

The White Tower

The White Tower of Thessaloniki
The White Tower of Thessaloniki, Image: k_samurkas / shutterstock

The White Tower was built in 1535 and is still considered a landmark of Thessaloniki today. Since it used to serve as a prison and torture chamber, it was given the name “The Red Tower” because its existence was marked by many bloody atrocities. It was not until 1890 that it was renamed “The White Tower” – the reason for this was one of the prisoners. He agreed to paint the tower white if he was released for it.
Meanwhile, the White Tower houses a museum about Byzantine culture. Due to its location by the sea, a visit to the tower can be perfectly combined with a walk along the five-kilometre-long waterfront.

Numerous museums

Thessaloniki has a rich cultural history, which can be admired in many museums.
The Archaeological Museum displays the remains that were found during the extensive excavations around the city and are well preserved. Also very interesting is the Museum of War History, which has exhibited old uniforms as well as weapons and orders of merit as well as other military remnants. Since Thessaloniki still has a fairly large Jewish community, the history of the Jewish population is documented in the Jewish Museum. Also worth seeing are the museums of photography and film as well as the Olympic Museum, which deals with the history of the Olympic Games from antiquity to modern times.

The old town of Ana Poli

The historic old town centre of Thessaloniki is located in the upper part of the city and invites you to take a stroll through the city with its narrow streets, small taverns and great atmosphere. Along the way, there are several Greek churches that are open to visitors, as well as the relaxing place Pasha ́s Gardens – a well-kept green area with fountains and comfortable seating.

Weekly markets

For fresh local products, the Kapani and Modiano markets are not to be missed. They are located next to each other and have an incredible variety of fresh fruit and vegetables, spices, antipasti, freshly caught fish, good sausage and farmhouse cheese. In the immediate vicinity, cosy taverns invite you to eat, enjoy an espresso or a cool drink, so that a visit to the market is ideal for rounding off your visit to the market.

Attractions in the area

Pella and Vergina

Pella and Vergina used to be the capitals of Macedonia and are now popular archaeological sites with relics worth seeing. Only an hour’s drive from Thessaloniki, they are a good day trip destination. Old royal tombs, jewellery, mosaics and the royal walls are well preserved and worth a visit.

Sithonia peninsula with Mount Athos

Long beaches, crystal-clear water and small coastal towns that invite you to linger: this is the Sithonia peninsula. Furthermore, it attracts with pure nature and Mediterranean vegetation and is perfect for hiking in the low season.

Insider tips for Thessaloniki

At the beginning of the city exploration, it is worthwhile to enjoy the sunrise from the Heptapyrgion. This is a fortress with a small café nearby – perfect for grabbing a first coffee for the view over Thessaloniki.

If you can enjoy silence, you should not miss the Vlatades Monastery. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and has a very beautiful courtyard that invites you to take a break in the shade.

Mackinac Island – Recreation in Michigang’s natural island panorama

Covering about 11 square kilometers between Lake Michigan and Lake Huron, Mackinac Island is a car-free island that is one of Michigan’s most popular travel destinations. If you are looking for relaxation in the US nature not far from the border with Canada, you can spend a decelerated holiday on Mackinac Island. Highlights such as the Grand Hotel and Fort Mackinac are suitable for sightseeing, while the island’s special nature unfolds in Mackinac State Park. The fascinating island has long been a popular local recreation destination for Michigan’s residents. Travelers can discover a fascinating insider tip in the northern US state.

Mackinac – A Place of American History

View of Mackinac Island, Michigan
View of Mackinac Island, Image: mivod / shutterstock

Mackinac was already inhabited in prehistoric times, and later the native Anishinaabe people lived here until European settlers took over the area in the 17th century. Mackinac did not play a subordinate role in the history of the USA : the local fort played an elementary strategic role both in the War of Independence and during the American Civil War. But Mackinac is not only historically significant, the island plays a special geographical role: Centrally located between the two large peninsulas of Michigan, Mackinac unfolds at the transition between Lake Michigan and Lake Huron. From an important fortress position to a modern holiday resort, Mackinac has undergone a multifaceted evolution in its history. Today, the home of only about 500 inhabitants is not only considered a relaxing highlight for locals, but also a tourist insider tip in the heart of Michigan by international visitors.

Coast and National Park – The Nature of Mackinac

About 80 percent of Mackinac’s island landscape is occupied by Mackinac Island State Park , which covers 7.3 square kilometers. Its nature unfolds mainly in the north of the island and extends to the urban area of Mackinac. Originally, the park was founded in 1875 as Mackinac National Park. At that time, it was only the second national park in the USA after the famous Yellowstone National Park. Many of the island’s historic buildings as well as the special natural formations unfold in the park area today. A kind of natural landmark is Arch Rock, which forms a natural arch of limestone at an altitude of 45 meters above sea level. The photo motif, immortalized on historical postcards as early as the end of the 19th century, is just as much a part of the park area as the cave formations of Skull Cave and Devil’s Kitchen. The 23-metre-high Sugar Loaf rock can also be seen from afar. There are some beautiful hiking routes through the island, and cycling tours on the car-free island are also popular. As an alternative to walking and cycling tours, carriages are one of the most popular means of transport on Mackinac, especially among tourists.

Grand Hotel and Fort Mackinac – Sights on Michigan’s Holiday Island

In addition to nature, the island has some remarkable buildings. One of the most famous is the island’s Grand Hotel, whose architectural roots date back to the 19th century. The fact that several US presidents as well as Thomas Edison and Mark Twain stayed here underlines the importance of the place. Another special feature of the building: The veranda of the Grand Hotel on Mackinac Island is considered the largest veranda in the world. Fort Mackinac, which was built in the 18th century and now attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors a year as a museum, is also of historical interest. The fort played a key role in the Anglo-American War of Independence of 1812, among other things.

Today, the church of St. Anna or Sainte Anne Church on the shore of Mackinac is also a landmark of the island. The impressive Roman Catholic building was built in 1874 and still shapes the face of the island today. If you want to shop or stroll in the heart of the island on your holiday tour, you can visit the historic centre of the town: The island’s Main and Market Streets are home to some interesting shops and restaurants to stop by. Between nature, sightseeing and culinary relaxation, the island has such a multifaceted opportunity to relax.

Animal inhabitants – Mackinac as an island of butterflies

View of Lake Huron through Arch Rock
View of Lake Huron through Arch Rock, Image: gg5795/shutterstock

However, one special feature of Mackinac has not yet been mentioned: two butterfly houses make the island a refuge for the colorful butterflies. For good reasons, Mackinac can therefore be considered an island of butterflies. There’s the Butterfly House & Insect World in the island’s Mission District. It is considered the oldest butterfly house of its kind in Michigan and the third oldest in the United States. Hundreds of butterflies from four continents move here within hundreds of square meters, making the Butterfly House & Insect World a popular destination on the island. At the same time, Surrey Hill on the island is also home to the Wings of Mackinac, which is home to tropical and native butterflies. The aim of the fascinating butterfly houses is also to educate visitors about the special features and ways of life of butterflies.

Not far from the port of Mackinac rests the small island of Round Island, where popular ferry tours of the lake pass. Special feature of the island: The old lighthouse Round Island Light, which is a popular photo motif of the region. The nature and historic buildings of Mackinac Island have always attracted the attention of cameras. So it is hardly surprising that various films were made in the tranquil island region with Esther Williams, Christopher Reeve, Jane Seymour and Christopher Plummer, among others. With its fascinating holiday flair, the island now knows how to captivate not only Michigan residents, but also visitors from all over the world.

San Gimignano – where the present is reflected in the past

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San Gimignano – the word alone melts on the tongue, and anyone strolling along the coarse cobblestones of this Tuscan pearl will soon feel that the present is reflected in the past. In the shadow of the imposing family towers, the Middle Ages are present, and hardly any visitor can escape the grandeur of this backdrop. Without a doubt, San Gimignano is something like the flagship of the province of Siena. With a unique skyline and a historically significant city center. The historical garb of the city, which is rich in sights, is surrounded by a defiant wall that survived the storms of the centuries largely unscathed.

The trip to the Manhattan of Tuscany

The best way to get around Tuscany is by car. The nearest airport is Florence Airport. It is located about 60 kilometers from San Gimignano. A trip by bus costs five to ten euros, but there is not much public transport in Tuscany, which is why a rental car is the better alternative. During the journey through the province of Siena , the city can be seen from afar. Today, 13 of the former 72 towers rise into the air and show the importance of the city in the Middle Ages. The towers were built by noble families and showed their status. The family with the highest tower had the most reputation. Most of the city’s buildings date from the 11. or 12th century. In the 16th century, the then Grand Duke decreed that no new buildings could be built within the city. Since then, time has virtually stood still. In 1990, the city was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The town is located on a hill and offers some good viewpoints over the nearby surroundings. The attraction of the city lies not only in the old town, but also in the landscape.

A walk through the old town

The old town of San Gimignano is car-free and invites you to take a leisurely stroll. At the southern end of the old town is Piazza Martiri de Montemaggio, where there are some parking spaces. A few meters away is the Porta San Giovanni, the former main gate of the city, and the journey into the Middle Ages can begin. The gate looks imposing and is well preserved. Along Via San Giovanni there are many small shops and museums. Tourists like to spend several hours on this street, as there are many souvenir shops, small cafes, museums and other shops. At the end of the street is the church Resti Chiesa San Francesco, a sacred building from the Middle Ages that is worth seeing. The Arc dei Becci gate is located at the entrance to Piazza della Cisterna. This square is triangular in shape and is surrounded by ancient stone houses. Here you will find the Gelataria Dondoli, a very famous ice cream parlour. In the middle of the square there is a medieval cistern. To the north is San Gimignano’s largest square, Piazza del Duomo. The square is located in the middle of the large collegiate church and seven towers. The square is considered the center of the city and it is worth watching the action from the large stairs of the church. With a glass of wine or an ice cream, locals and tourists take a short break from the hustle and bustle. At the northern end of the square is the church tower. It is the tallest tower in the city and offers a great view over San Gimignano and the surrounding area. It is worth tackling the 250 steps of the stairs.

A car-free stroll through history

The “Manhattan of the Middle Ages” should be discovered on foot, because the old town of San Gimignano, which has been ennobled as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is car-free. Not far from Piazza Martiri de Montemaggio, visitors will find larger parking lots. Through Porta San Giovanni, one of the main gates dating back to the 13th century, the walk through a town that has maintained and preserved its medieval charm begins. To the south of Florence , this used to be a bustling marketplace where the farmers of the surrounding area presented their products. The houses in the 12. and 13th century of the so-called “family towers”. They were considered stone witnesses to the well-being of the influential families of this city. But they also bore witness to the strife of the nobility, which outbid each other in the height of its residential and defensive towers.

Station for pilgrims on the way to Rome

Old town San Gimignano
Out and about in the old town, Image: Catarina Belova / shutterstock

The most imposing of the towers still preserved today, which symbolized the power of the families residing here, stretches up to a height of 54 meters. Originally, it was supposed to be in the 13. and In the 14th century, there must have been more than seventy such slender buildings that shaped the image of medieval San Gimignano. The pilgrims stood there in amazement in front of these buildings. They chose a very special place above the valleys of the Val d’Elsa as a stop on their arduous journey from northern Europe to Rome. The historic Via Francignena, the “Frankenstraße”, was the center of this place and peppered with simple hostels, restaurants and hospitals. However, San Gimignano’s heyday hardly lasted longer than one and a half centuries. The plague was followed by the subjugation of the powerful neighbor Florence and finally insignificance for the community.

The character of the Middle Ages was preserved

San Gimignano has long since recovered from this, not least thanks to international tourism. Today, only 1,500 people live in the old town. They are sympathetic – but also business-minded – hosts of around three million guests a year. The impressive site received a strong boost in popularity from the UNESCO designation in 1990, and the designation as a World Heritage Site encouraged the authorities to restore a number of things that were in danger of falling into disrepair. However, the planners tried to preserve the medieval character of San Gimignano and not to make any compromises. And so the Palazzo del Podestá and the Palazzo del Popopolo present themselves with their everlasting charm of old times. This also applies to the Piazza della Cisterna, which owes its name to a historic fountain that can hardly be overlooked here.

Dante came as ambassador of the metropolis of Florence

San Gimignano
Image: canadastock / shutterstock

At all times, San Gimignano was the destination of the Florentine artistic guard, who immortalized themselves here on frescoes or panels. The philosopher Dante Alighieri, creator of the “Divine Comedy”, also stayed here in 1300 as ambassador of the metropolis of Florence. He resided in the “Sala del Consiglio”, the reception hall of the Palazzo Comunale, which is well worth seeing, in the heart of the medieval city and not far from the Collegiate Church of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary. The frescoes on display there are masterpieces of the Florentine and Sienese schools of art. In the heyday of San Gimignano, it was the trade in saffron that made the people of this city wealthy. The towers of the city served the rich patricians as a dwelling and as a defensive facility. Almost all of them had a floor area in the form of a square and did not correspond to normal living comfort even at that time. However, intruders had a hard time seizing such a tower, because in the event of a threat, the owners saved themselves via rope ladders to the next floor. The building frenzy of the nobility was stopped one day because defects in the statics of some towers became noticeable. From then on, no tower was allowed to be built higher than that of the Torre Grossa town hall.

A glass of Vernaccia at sunset

14 of these towers are still the figureheads of San Gimignano, visible from afar. The oldest is the Torre Rognosa, which can be translated as “mangy tower”. This name is apparently a reminder that the building served as a dungeon for some time. After the decree of the authorities, according to which the towers were no longer allowed to grow into the sky, the Salvucci and Ardinghelli families decided to build two towers at once to manifest their claim to power. If you want to delve deeper into the history of art during a visit to the medieval city, you should go to the museums of San Gimignano. The Museo Civico exhibits works of art from the period between the 13th and 15th centuries. The municipality is also proud of its numerous first-class restaurants, where the culinary delights of Tuscany can be found on the menus. However, some holidaymakers limit themselves to a break in the shade of an archway or enjoy a glass of the famous Vernaccia, which was harvested here in the Middle Ages, on the old city wall at sunset.

Not only the old town is worth seeing

There are several hiking trails in the surroundings of San Gimignano. The so-called panorama circuit is 8.8 kilometres long and leads once around the centre of the city. There are many different perspectives on the skyline here. There are many vineyards and olive groves in the area. The hospitable operators are happy to invite you to a tasting. There are many small restaurants that serve local specialties and process local food. The staff is very nice and sometimes even German-speaking. Wine tastings are offered regularly and the delicious wine of Tuscany can be purchased directly from the estate. Some artists sit in the area and bring the picturesque surroundings and the skyline to canvas and paper. The paintings can be purchased directly from the artists and are a nice memory of your holiday in Tuscany.

Ras Al Khaimah is part of the United Arab Emirates

Ras Al Khaimah on the Persian Gulf is the northernmost of the United Arab Emirates. Its capital of the same name is the sixth largest city in the Emirates. It is divided by a stream into the old town to the west and Al Nakheel to the east. The impressive old town in traditional oriental construction made of coral stone is located on a narrow headland between the Persian Gulf and a lagoon. The name Ras Al Khaimah means top of the tent and refers to the original way of life of the Bedouins in huts and tents. In the meantime, the region is increasingly developing into a popular tourist destination.

A hidden gem on the Persian Gulf

Zayed Mosque in Ras al-Khaimah
Zayed Mosque in Ras al-Khaimah, Image: Philip Lange / shutterstock

Ras Al Khaimah is a true holiday paradise by the sea. Warm, clear water and a shallow shore invite you to swim. Sunshine, blue skies and a golden dream beach create perfect conditions for an unforgettable beach holiday. Flamingo Beach on the west coast of the United Arab Emirates is not only loved by sun worshippers and water sports enthusiasts, but also by nature lovers because of its charming landscape and mangrove islands. The beach with its fine white sand has, among other things, a floodlit beach volleyball court. The camels provide a spectacle worth seeing when they run to the sea to take a dip in the lukewarm waters of the Gulf.

Because it is visited by significantly fewer tourists compared to Dubai and Abu Dhabi , the emirate is still considered an insider tip. Nevertheless, the up-and-coming region has a good tourist infrastructure and luxurious resorts along the coast. In addition to impressive shopping malls such as Al Hamra Mall or Manar Mall, there are numerous fine restaurants. The authentic oriental souks, as the business districts of Arab cities are called, have their own charm. In the bazaars, local traders offer their wares at colourful market stalls, including enchanting exotic souvenirs.

Exciting attractions can be found further inland from Ras Al Khaimah. A drive through moon-like desert landscapes, abandoned villages and the barren rocky wadis to the spectacular summit of Jebel Jais is a truly magical experience. Just before the summit is an observation deck that offers stunning views of the Hajar Mountains, the desert landscape, and the gulf.

On the highest mountain in the United Arab Emirates lies the Bear Grylls Explorer Camp. Here you will find the exciting high ropes course Jais Ropes Course. With the world’s longest zip line, Jais Flight, you glide at breathtaking speed over rugged mountain peaks and through deep gorges. The comfortable bobsleighs of the Jais Sledder glide down the mountains on rails close to the ground. They reach speeds of up to 40 kilometers per hour and offer magnificent panoramic views of the spectacular coast.

Amid the rolling dunes of the Ras Al Khaimah desert lies the home of the proud Arabian horses, the Al Wadi Equestrian Adventure Centre. It is located in a nature reserve for the delicate ecosystem of the desert. In the untouched nature, it is not uncommon to meet native animals such as oryx antelopes, camels, desert foxes and desert cats.

In addition to an impressive landscape with exotic nature and fascinating wildlife, Ras Al Khaimah offers numerous interesting and historic excursion destinations.

A country with a long history and ancient traditions

Dhayah Fort, Ras Al Khaimah
Dhayah Fort, Image: Creative Family / shutterstock

Deep in the dunes of the endless sandy desert of Ras Al Khaimah is the Bassata Bedouin Camp, the replica of a typical Bedouin village. Bassata means simplicity. This refers to the traditional way of life of the desert nomads. Visitors get the opportunity to learn about the life and traditions of the Bedouins. This also includes a ride in a camel caravan.

To the northeast, on a hilltop amidst the barren mountains and fertile date wadis of Ras Al Khaimah, rises the Dhayah Fort. The only surviving fortress in the Emirates dates back to the 18th century. It is located in an oasis and offers spectacular views from the mountains over palm trees and green land to neighboring Oman and the sea.

Al Jazirah Al Hamra, the red island, is the only remaining historic pearl village in the entire Gulf region. The place was originally a tidal island and around 1830 home to 200 inhabitants, who were mainly engaged in pearl fishing. In the meantime, the city has become an open-air museum, but it is neither supervised nor maintained.
The National Museum of Ras Al Khaimah, housed in a centuries-old fort, houses regional history and archaeological exhibitions. The archaeological excavations in more than 1000 sites prove a lively trade in the region with India, China and Mesopotamia since 5,000 BC. Numerous ancient monuments bear witness to the origin of the emirate. Near the fish market is the Mohammed Bin Salem Mosque, one of the oldest and most important in the Emirates. Interestingly, it lacks the typical minaret.

From the Spree to the Ruhr – Germany’s largest cities

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Are you dreaming of a city trip but don’t feel like taking a long flight? The largest cities in Germany have a lot to offer and can be easily reached by train. A currywurst in Berlin, a fish sandwich in Hamburg or an Altbier in Düsseldorf, let yourself be inspired.

Berlin – capital with an eventful history

The German capital is always worth a visit. There is constant construction going on here and hardly any other city has changed so much in recent years. In addition to the classic sights such as the Reichstag, the Brandenburg Gate or Alexanderplatz, a visit to the newly built city palace, which houses various exhibitions, is worthwhile. History buffs will get their money’s worth in the East Side Gallery or on Museum Island. A successful mix of shops, culture and nightlife can be found in the Hackesche Höfe and on the Hackescher Markt.

Hamburg – the Nordic pearl

Hamburg, Alster
View of the Alster in Hamburg, Image: Allard One / shutterstock

In the port of Hamburg, with its view of huge container ships and luxurious cruise ships, visitors get to feel the flair of the big wide world. Even if you are only in the Hanseatic city of Hamburg for a day, you should not miss a harbor tour and a tour of the Speicherstadt, which is a World Heritage Site. At the fish market, market criers sell their products with rough charm. In the evening, a trip to the Reeperbahn, the most sinful mile in the world, is worthwhile. If you have more time, you can take a whole trip around the world in Hamburg – in Miniatur Wunderland.

Munich – much more than the Oktoberfest

Marienplatz Munich
View of Marienplatz in Munich, Image: S-F / shutterstock

When you think of the Bavarian capital, the first thing that comes to mind is men in lederhosen with a wheat beer in the Hofbräuhaus. But in addition to the Oktoberfest, the largest folk festival in the world, and the numerous beer gardens, Munich offers much more. Castles and palaces such as Nymphenburg Palace invite you to travel back in time and art lovers get their money’s worth in the versatile museums. There is an impressive range of products from technology in the Deutsches Museum to classical art in the Alte Pinakothek. Not to be missed is the old town with Marienplatz and the Frauenkirche. Munich is worth a visit during the Christmas season, when the Christmas market takes place there and everything is festively illuminated.

Cologne – welcome to the cathedral city

Cologne, Rhine & Cologne Cathedral
View over the Rhine to Cologne Cathedral, Image: ESB Professional / shutterstock

If you visit Cologne by train and leave the main station, you will immediately see the cathedral, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture and the highlight of the city. Visitors interested in the city’s history head to the nearby Romano-Germanic Museum, which showcases finds from Roman times to the early Middle Ages. Not to be missed is a walk along the Rhine and a visit to the Chocolate Museum. A real insider tip is the Melaten Cemetery with its imposing monuments and impressive parks. The city shows a completely different face at carnival. Millions of people celebrate from Weiberfastnacht to Violet Tuesday in colorful costumes.

Frankfurt – between skyline and historic old town

Fountains of Justice
The Fountain of Justice at the Römer, Image: Pigprox / shutterstock

Frankfurt am Main is a city of contrasts. As soon as you arrive, the impressive skyline with the glittering high-rise facades catches the eye. In addition, the metropolis on the Main has historical sights. The Römer, Frankfurt’s town hall with its pretty Kaisersaal, is one of the most beautiful and oldest in Germany. In the New Old Town, parts of what was once Germany’s largest medieval old town were reconstructed by 2018. St. Paul’s Church, where the National Assembly created the first democratic constitution for Germany , can be visited today. A visit to the city is particularly worthwhile in October, when the annual book fair takes place.

Stuttgart – Cars and vineyards

Stuttgart Palace Square
Stuttgart’s Schossplatz, Image: lebasi0601 / shutterstock

Stuttgart is an important business location, shaped by the automobile companies Porsche and Mercedes-Benz. Nevertheless, the state capital of Baden-Württemberg is surprisingly green. In addition to vineyards and valleys, the Schlossgarten and the Hohenheim Gardens invite you to linger. The Wilhelma, zoo and botanical garden in one, is also an oasis in the city. The city is popular with architecture enthusiasts. The city library, which turns into a blue light sculpture at night, is one of the most beautiful libraries in the world. The Weissenhof Estate, which was built in the 1920s, is a blueprint for functional living. An excellent view over the city can be enjoyed from the viewing platform of the TV tower. In good weather, you can see the Swabian Alb from here.

Düsseldorf – Fashion and the longest bar in the world

Düsseldorf Rhine
View of the banks of the Rhine in Düsseldorf, Image: Romas_Photo / shutterstock

Hardly any other city is as versatile as Düsseldorf. Here, the rich and beautiful stroll along Königsallee, party people celebrate in the old town at the longest bar in the world and music fans enjoy concerts in the Tonhalle or the Opera House. Each of the 50 districts has its own charm. You should not miss the Media Harbour, designed by renowned architects, and the Japanese quarter around Immermannstraße.

Dortmund – a football capital

Dortmunder U
The Dortmunder U – Center for Art and Creativity, Image: Hernan J. Martin / shutterstock

Football characterises this city in the Ruhr area. At every BVB home game, it turns into a sea of yellow and black. Fans of other teams can also enjoy the German Football Museum. But Dortmund has more to offer. A piece of industrial history can be visited, for example, in the Zollern colliery. Many buildings have been extensively restored here and the view from the winding tower is unique. The creative heart of the city beats in the Dortmunder U. In addition to the Ostwall Museum, there is a restaurant and a club here. Dortmund is greener than the city’s reputation suggests. Nature lovers will get their money’s worth on a hike along the Ruhr or on an excursion to the Phoenix Lake.

The most beautiful sights in Saxony-Anhalt

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When it comes to the facets of Saxony-Anhalt that are worth seeing, fascinating natural worlds such as the Harz Mountains with the Devil’s Wall and Brocken become the focus of attention. However, the state in the heart of Germany also has numerous cultural cities – from Lutherstadt Wittenberg to Magdeburg with its famous cathedral. Saxony-Anhalt is a home to a recognised UNESCO World Heritage Site and offers nature lovers and cultural travellers numerous reasons for a tourist stop. The following insight shows which destinations are worth visiting.

The natural idyll of the Harz Mountains

An important piece of the Harz Mountains spreads out in the east of the mountain range in Saxony-Anhalt. The nature region is generally considered a paradise for hikers and nature lovers. It is not surprising that the highest mountain in the Harz Mountains – the Brocken – is located here, a popular destination in the region. Over 1141 meters, the Brocken towers over the mountain and forest scenery of the Harz Mountains: Not only a popular local recreation area, but also a highlight for sports and nature lovers. The Brocken Ultramarathon Challenge regularly takes place here, and with the Goetheweg, the Harz Mountains also have one of the most beautiful hiking trails in Germany not far from the Brocken. Hundreds of thousands of visitors use the route every year to enjoy the beautiful natural scenery around the Brocken on foot. A highlight on the Brocken is also the Brocken Railway, which is one of the traditional Harz Smalspurbahn railways – and is not only a useful means of transport, but also brings the beautiful natural panorama of the Harz Mountains closer to curious travellers.

In the core of the Harz Mountains unfolds the Harz National Park, which was merged in 2006 from two smaller national parks. Dreamlike forest and mountain scenery in the midst of partly untouched flora and fauna underline the importance of the special Harz nature reserve for Saxony-Anhalt and the Federal Republic. Not only the Goethe Trail, but also the long-distance hiking trail Harzer Hexenstieg provides the best reasons for a natural stop in the beautiful area of the Harz Mountains. The Hexentanzplatz near Thale and the Devil’s Wall attract tourist attention. The striking stone formations of the Devil’s Wall are one of the most popular nature motifs in the Harz Mountains today.

From Magdeburg to Wittenberg – Urban Saxony-Anhalt

Otto City Magdeburg
Ottostadt Magdeburg, Image: Marcus_Hofmann / shutterstock

The fact that important history has also taken place in Saxony-Anhalt is proven by cultural cities such as Wittenberg. Today, Lutherstadt on the Elbe preserves an important UNESCO World Heritage Site. In the 16th century – although historically controversial – Martin Luther’s theses were posted here at the Wittenberg Castle Church, which has been part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1996, depending on the source. In addition to its history closely linked to Martin Luther, Wittenberg has some magnificent historical buildings to show for itself – including the city church of St. Mary, the Luther House, but also the Hamlet House and the old town hall. Interesting for architecture fans is the Hundertwasser School in Wittenberg, which is thanks to the architect of the same name and his unmistakable style.

Magnificent buildings are also located in another urban highlight for travellers: Magdeburg. The city on the Elbe is recognised as the capital of Saxony-Anhalt. The landmark is the Madgeburg Cathedral, whose construction began in the early 13th century – and which is now one of the most magnificent Gothic cathedrals in Germany. The city of Merseburg with its historic cathedral and castle as well as the historic centre of Wernigerode with its half-timbered houses, the historic town hall and the Wernigerode Castle, which towers over the city panorama, are also of tourist importance.

The facets of Saxony-Anhalt: nature hiking trails and World Heritage

Wernigerode Castle, Saxony-Anhalt
Wernigerode Castle, Image: LeonHansenPhoto / shutterstock

Wernigerode Castle is a good example, because Saxony-Anhalt presents itself as a fascinating state with many castle buildings that encourage visits. The popular holiday route Straße der Romantik runs through the state, where some beautiful churches and castle buildings can be discovered. If you are interested in the historical architectural style that spread in the European High Middle Ages, you can plan a corresponding tour through Saxony-Anhalt, which presents the most beautiful buildings of this kind in the region. These undoubtedly include the cathedral of Magdeburg, but also the cathedral of Halberstadt, the collegiate church of St. Servatius of Quedlinburg or Neuenburg Castle near Freyburg.

The fact that Saxony-Anhalt is a stronghold of the UNESCO World Heritage Site is proven not only by Lutherstadt Wittenberg, but also by the historic architecture of Quedlinburg. The old town is characterized by magnificent Renaissance buildings – including the town hall – and Romanesque architecture. The collegiate church of St. Servatius from the 11. and 12th century: A masterpiece of Romanesque architecture. But it is not only medieval architecture that is honoured by UNESCO, the pioneering buildings of the Bauhaus in Dessau are also part of the World Heritage Site. The Harz Mountains have already proven that Saxony-Anhalt is a paradise for hiking. The beautiful hiking and riverside paths along the Saale, known for their viticulture, do the rest for nature lovers. It is also worth taking a look at the historic city centre of Halle an der Saale – especially the market square with market church and the striking Red Tower. All these destinations prove: In Saxony-Anhalt you can spend a varied holiday between Harz natural worlds and cultural cities with World Heritage sites.

Boltenhagen – a paradise over time

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What began in 1803 with a bathing cart was continued for almost 200 years. Boltenhagen developed into one of the most popular seaside resorts in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania. Even though time has produced a large number of seaside and health resorts on the Baltic Sea coast, Boltenhagen lives up to its name as a “pearl by the sea”. The seaside resort of Boltenhagen, which was recognized almost 100 years ago, became today’s seaside spa.

Wellness and relaxation guaranteed

Not far from Wismar and Lübeck lies the Mecklenburg Bay as part of the largest German Baltic Sea bay, bordered by an imaginary line from the eastern tip of the Schleswig-Holstein island of Fehmarn and the northern tip of the Fischland-Darß-Zingst peninsula, the Darßer Ort.

Like pearls on a necklace, the holiday resorts on the coast of the Baltic Sea line up from west to east. They have made a name for themselves over the years as popular tourist resorts and seaside resorts. From small fishing villages or seaside resorts of the last century, the resorts have become one of the most sought-after destinations for family holidays in summer.

In autumn, the cranes prefer the landscape interspersed with lakes and the Bodden waters as a resting place on their migration south – in spring you can expect them on time on their return trip.

No one goes away empty-handed

Boltenhagen pier
Pure relaxation in Boltenhagen, Image: Sina Ettmer Photography / shutterstock

Boltenhagen with its beach and coastal forest is the ideal holiday destination for families with or without children. On 24 supervised beaches, holidaymakers with and without bathing accompaniment will find what they are looking for on designated beach sections: Relaxing in the sun on the white sand and swimming in the crystal-clear water – a paradise for a while. In a beach chair or in a sandcastle, with a light breeze on your skin and the spicy scent of salt, forest and summer heat in your nose, you forget the time, whether you like it or not.

A wide range of music and theatre for young and old people provides entertainment, Zumba Fitness or Hatha Yoga for physical balance.
The physical well-being is also typically taken care of regionally: the small local fishing fleet brings the fish fresh from the water for meals. If you like, you can receive the cutters when you enter the harbour.

A brief review

In the west, the 5-kilometre-long sandy beach ends in a cliff with a height of up to 35 metres. It was formed by pushed rock made of clay, chalk and scree during the last ice age. A few decades ago, the Baltic Sea coast ended here for holidaymakers and residents of Boltenhagen. Longingly, they looked along the shore of the Baltic Sea towards the west, whose coast was to remain inaccessible. Anyone who dared to cross the inner-German border over the water at that time usually paid for it with their lives.

The sad chapter as a border area with its strict surveillance in divided Germany is over. Anyone who enjoys the white sand on the beach now has no idea that it was closed to visitors from 8 p.m. to 6 a.m., that any use of boats or surfing was prohibited and that at night spotlights searched the beach and the sea for refugees.

If you want to pause for a moment of your holiday today, you could do so at the memorial stone at the Boltenhagen pier. He recalls that in the period from 1961 to 1989, 5000 people wanted to leave the GDR via the Baltic Sea and only 600 of them succeeded.

Carefree holiday feeling

Spa gardens in Boltenhagen
Kurpark in Boltenhagen, Image: Randy Pr / shutterstock

White sand, clear water and, if you’re lucky, plenty of sun. About 30,000 holidaymakers appreciate what the Baltic Sea has to offer with its fresh breeze, slightly salty water and fine sand. Especially for children and non-swimmers, the water near the shore is widely shallow and invites you to play carefree.

In the resort, which is set up for holidaymakers, no one has to do without anything. Even if the weather does not invite you to swim or build beach castles – entertainment is always the order of the day. Restaurants, cafés and the historic, now restored buildings of the spa architecture invite you to stroll and linger. In Boltenhagen you move between nature and urban flair. New, modern apartments have been created from former FDGB holiday homes and children’s holiday camps, which get along well with new holiday resorts and hotels.

Time passes far too quickly when strolling along the promenade or in the spa gardens, attending a concert in the concert shell or taking a healthy sip in the drinking spa hall. You can wait for the sun to set with a glass of red wine on the 290-metre-long pier, before listening to the sound of the waves in the warmth of a summer night and looking forward to the next day.

If you feel like it, you can visit the Boltenhagen districts of Redewisch, Tarnewitz and Wichmannsdorf by bike along the avenues of old trees and fields typical of the area. The nature reserve east of the main village, the Tarnewitzer Huk, is closed to visitors, but the marina “Weisse Wieck”, surrounded by forest to the north and west, is an interesting destination.

Via Wichmannsdorf or Redewisch you reach Klütz with some architectural sights. The three-aisled church of St. Mary, built of red brick typical of the region, is just as impressive as the medieval, well-restored town centre.

You can park your bike at the town’s listed train station and from there take the small-gauge railway “De Lütt Kaffeebrenner” to Reppenhagen or Grevesmühlen. In any case, the fun goes along when the train puffs, squeaks and whistles its way.

The Gili Islands in Indonesia

Azure blue waters, pristine sandy beaches and romantic bays: The Gili Islands in Indonesia are a dreamlike holiday paradise. Located in the Bali Sea, the various islands offer something for every tourist. Divers and fans of water sports in particular get their money’s worth here, the islands are known for the many sea turtles. In addition, several dolphins, fish, reef sharks and whales can be discovered on the seabed. The island triplet is located on the northwest coast of Lombok. The people here live from tourism, fishing and coconut cultivation. They also run street food kitchens and offer fantastic Indonesian cuisine for little money. The main travel months are the summer months of July and August as well as December and January.

How to get to the Gili Islands

It feels like the Gili Islands are at the other end of the world. From Europe, the airports in Bali and Lombok are first available to choose from, before continuing by boat. From several ports in Bali, speedboats take about two hours to Gili Trawangan. The most famous are Benoa Harbour, Sanur, Armed and Padangbai. There are also fast boats from Lombok from Bagsal Harbour in the direction of the Gili Islands. The public speedboats depart at 11 am. There are boats to all three islands. Basically, it is cheaper to use the official boats, as the boats are more reliable and are regularly technically checked. By the way, cars are forbidden on all three islands, which slows down life on Gili even more. In addition to bicycles, people also move around here with horses, because the roads are often not developed.

The three Indonesian dream islands in Lake Bali

The Gili Islands consist of Gili Trawangan, Gili Meno, and Gili Air. The most famous island is Gili Trawangan, also called Gili T, which is also the best developed for a relaxing holiday. The island triplet in Lake Bali is still one of the insider tips, but already has a decent fan base among divers.

Snorkeling and diving on Gili Trawangan

Gili Trawangan
Gili Trawangan is the largest of the Gili Islands with about 15 m², Image: MawardiBahar / shutterstock

Gili Trawangan is considered a diver’s paradise and an ideal destination for water sports fans. For divers, the infrastructure is perfect thanks to many diving schools. Swimming fans can expect crystal-clear water and fantastic sandy beaches as well as swings in the sea. Especially in the north of the island there are great places for swimming and snorkeling. The island is especially popular with young visitors, because the nightlife has a lot to offer. In the island’s diving centers as well as several bars, parties take place every evening in summer. Since the island can be circumnavigated on foot in two hours, the distances from bar to bar are not far. The selection of restaurants has also grown in recent years. In addition to traditional local restaurants, there is now also a good range of European food. Gili T has been developed for tourism in recent years. In the east of the island there are modern bungalows and hotels, but also hostels for globetrotters and travelers on a tight budget. If you want to see particularly beautiful sunsets, you can also rent bungalows in the southwest.

The romantic island of Gili Meno

Gili Meno, Indonesia
Gili Meno, Image: umikem / shutterstock

Beautiful sunsets, fantastically empty beaches and above all peace and quiet are offered by the island of Gili Meno. It is the smallest of the Gili Islands in Indonesia. Because it is so quiet and idyllic, it is an absolute dream destination, especially for newlywed couples. The island is not developed for tourism. There are a few restaurants in the east and there are fewer hotel resorts and accommodations. The west side of the island seems a bit deserted, but at the same time it is a great place to relax for people who want to unwind. At the same time, Gili Meno offers many beautiful dive sites. These include Meno Wall and Bounty, two sunken piers. For equipment and valuable tips, there are three diving schools on site. Gili Meno is also a good destination for a day from the other two islands.

A mix of idyll and bar culture: Gili Air

The third island, Gili Air, is a good mix of Gili T. and Gili Meno. There is a similarly good infrastructure for holidaymakers on the island as on Gilli T, i.e. modern bungalows as well as a variety of restaurants and cafés. Gili Air offers the best view of the Lombok Mountains. In the east, not only this fantastic view awaits visitors, but also many beach bars. Gili Air also offers good opportunity for divers in the east of Gili Air. The coral reef off the east coast is perhaps even the most beautiful dive site of the three Gili Islands. In the west, on the other hand, tourists will find fantastic sandy beaches that are almost untouched. Gili Air is an authentic mix between the other two islands.