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The most popular national parks in the USA

The USA is the country of the oldest, largest and best-known national parks in the world. Almost all of the USA’s legendary landscapes and natural areas can be found in its national parks. The combination of nature and well-developed tourist infrastructure is unrivalled in the world. It is not without reason that many national parks in the USA are popular destinations for locals and tourists from all over the world. Some national parks are particularly legendary and worth seeing. The following parks are definitely worth considering when planning a trip to the United States.

1. Yellowstone National Park

Grand Prismatic Spring in Yellowstone Park
Grand Prismatic Spring in Yellowstone Park, Image: Anders Riishede / shutterstock

Yellowstone National Park was founded in 1872, making it the world’s oldest national park. With annual visitors of over 4 million, the park is extremely popular, especially considering its location far from the population centers of the USA. The majority of Yellowstone National Park is in Wyoming, Montana and Idaho are home to smaller parts of the park.

The sights include numerous geological sights. Yellowstone National Park is located in a volcanically extremely active region. Hot springs, geysers and spectacular rock formations can be admired.
The second main attraction is the fauna of the region. Through conservation and reintroduction measures, there is a chance of sightings of grizzly bears, black bears and wolves in Yellowstone National Park. The imposing bison and elk deer are probably seen by most visitors.

2. Yosemite National Park

Yosemite National Park
Yosemite National Park, Image: cb_travel / shutterstock

Yosemite National Park captivates with its absolutely breathtaking landscape. Due to its location about 300 km east of San Francisco , it is an accessible and worthwhile destination for many California vacationers. The core of the park is a wide valley, which is lined with impressive rock formations.

Yosemite National Park is particularly interesting for hikers and adventure athletes. The network of paths is particularly well developed. The park played a central role in the development of modern climbing and in the history of base jumping. Of course, the landscape of the park can also be enjoyed without a penchant for adrenaline. The forests, rocks and waterfalls invite you to relax. The park was one of the favorite subjects of Ansel Adams, one of the most famous landscape photographers of all time.

3. Great Smoky Mountains National Park

With well over 10 million visitors per year, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is the most visited national park in the USA. The park is located in the U.S. states of Tennessee and North Carolina. The landscape of the park consists of rolling mountains that are covered with one of the most intact virgin forests east of the Mississippi . In the valleys there are untouched mountain streams.

Visitors can expect a large network of hiking trails on which the masses of visitors are well distributed. The views from the park’s streets are legendary. A section of the Appalachian Trail, the world’s most famous long-distance hiking trail, runs through the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Visitor centers also inform park visitors about the long history of Native American settlement in the national park’s lands. The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is particularly popular with Americans, but for many tourists it remains more of an insider tip.

4. Everglades National Park

Everglades National Park
Everglades National Park, Image: GagliardiPhotography / shutterstock

In terms of climate and landscape, Everglades National Park is a big leap from the parks described earlier. However, due to its location in Florida , it is within easy reach of many popular vacation destinations and is undoubtedly worth a visit. The Everglades National Park includes a tropical swamp area that drains Florida’s interior towards the coast. There are numerous watercourses, dense reeds and dry, wooded islands. Visitors see alligators, tropical birds and an impressive landscape in its own way. Exploring the national park on your own is difficult, as you have to rely on special watercraft. There is a wide range of guided tours through the Everglades National Park.

The ecosystem of the Everglades is more threatened by human intervention than most other national parks in the USA.

5. Death Valley National Park

Death Valley National Park
Death Valley National Park, Image: Ernst Prettenthaler / shutterstock

In Death Valley National Park, visitors get an insight into the desert landscape of California and Nevada. The park is a place of superlatives: the highest air temperature ever was measured here and the lowest place in the USA is located here.
Death Valley National Park is easily accessible from popular destinations Las Vegas and Los Angeles . The best way to explore is from the air-conditioned car. Tourists who underestimate the dangers of the heat cause elaborate rescue operations every year.

The desert landscape of Death Valley National Park is a unique experience. Tourists see an alternation of rugged rocks and huge dune landscapes. The park is characterized by the interplay of relentless sun and dry winds.

6. Denali National Park

Denali National Park in Alaska
Denali National Park in Alaska, Image: Marc Cappelletti / shutterstock

In the middle of the Alaskan wilderness is Denali National Park. The park is as large as the state of Brandenburg and is only accessible by one road. The landscape of the national park is dominated by its namesake, Mount Denali. Around the highest mountain in North America are coniferous forests and steppe-like grasslands.

Visitors should definitely have experience in the wilderness before exploring the park on their own. The remoteness and high density of grizzly bears make hiking in Denali National Park not entirely without danger. However, the National Park Service also offers guided hikes and other events for tourists. For Alaska travelers, Denali National Park is a must.

7. Grand Teton National Park

Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming
Grand Teton National Park, Image: Bitter Buffalo Photo / shutterstock

Grand Teton National Park is located in Wyoming, south of Yellowstone National Park. Compared to its big brother, this park does not have to hide at all. Grand Teton National Park includes the Tetons, which ruggedly overlooks the typical prairie of the western United States. Grand Teton National Park is much quieter than Yellowstone National Park. The same animal species can be observed: grizzly bears, wolves, bison, moose and elk. In addition, pronghorns, the second fastest land animals in the world, can also be seen.

The park is accessed by a large network of hiking trails. In addition, the immediately adjacent mountain town of Jackson is well worth seeing.

8. Olympic National Park

Olympic National Park
Olympic National Park, Image: Galyna Andrushko / shutterstock

Olympic National Park is located directly on the Canadian border in the US state of Washington. Here, the Pacific coast, mountains and rainforests meet directly. Especially from Seattle, the park is worth a detour.

The park’s forests are part of the unique temperate rainforest ecosystem. Due to the Pacific climate, a very large amount of precipitation falls in Olympic National Park, with mild temperatures all year round. In the center of the park are the rugged, glacier-covered peaks of the Olympic Mountains. Visitors to the park can take advantage of the full spectrum of nature-based activities. Hiking, mountain biking and fishing are particularly popular.

9. Sequoia National Park

Sequoia Trees in Sequoia National Park
Sequoia National Park, Image: Jeison Jaramillo / shutterstock

The world-famous images of the huge sequoia trees come from Sequoia National Park in California . The ancient forests of these trees form the main attraction of the park. Some of the trees are over 80 m high and reach diameters of over 10 m.

It is also directly adjacent to King’s Canyon National Park, which is administered jointly with Sequoia National Park. This is where desert landscapes and mountain landscapes of the Sierra Nevada meet. The areas of the two parks were among the centers of the California Gold Rush, which drove the settlement of the region. From Los Angeles and San Francisco , the parks can be reached in half a day.

10. Zion National Park

Zion National Park
Zion National Park, Image: Kris Wiktor / shutterstock

Zion National Park is one of the lesser-known national parks outside the USA. It is located in southwestern Utah and is in close proximity to the Grand Canyon and Bryce Canyon National Park. For travelers in the southwest of the USA, Zion National Park is one of the best destinations.

The core of Zion National Park is a deep gorge lined with sandstone cliffs. Here, a green meadow landscape meets the surrounding desert in the sole of the escape. In the valley, it is surprisingly cool even in summer. A highlight is the “Narrows”, a particularly narrow section of the gorge that can only be reached on foot by hiking in the river.

The diversity of national parks in the USA corresponds to the cultural and scenic diversity of the country. Each national park is worth seeing in its own right, but unfortunately a normal life is usually too short to visit them all. These ten parks reflect the spectrum of natural landscapes in the USA particularly well and are therefore particularly interesting for visitors.

Bizarre mountain worlds and a lot of culture – the Friuli-Venezia Giulia region knows how to inspire

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Italy is and remains a country of longing for many people worldwide. And that’s only too understandable, because this spot in the south of Europe is one of the most beautiful areas in terms of landscape.

In addition, Italy offers a wide variety of impressions and natural forms due to its unique shape, which is also often compared to a boot. From the majestic mountains of the north to the lovely center and the Mediterranean south, everything is there. In the northeast of the country is the Friuli-Venezia Giulia region. It borders the neighbouring countries of Austria and Slovenia as well as the Adriatic Sea and is characterised by the bizarre mountain worlds of the Dolomites and is known for famous wineries that export their white wine all over the world.

What is special about the Friuli Venezia Giulia region

In this region of Italy, nature is the main actor and at the same time the great attraction. Therefore, this area is also particularly traveled by people who appreciate the unique environment of the mountains and want to get to know them from different perspectives.

But the landscape not only has a wide variety of mountain formations to offer, but in the south there are also many beaches along the Adriatic coast. With Lignano Sabbiadoro there is a beautiful and popular seaside resort where you can enjoy the Italian sun and the famous dolce vita.

Trieste, Italy
Picturesque Trieste, Image: leoks / shutterstock

Miles of beaches with golden sand invite you to linger, walk and swim here, making this area a true sunny paradise. Especially the lagoon of Maranao, which is separated from the open sea by many islands, is a wonderful place to enjoy the dreamlike and original nature. And this region is also a popular holiday area in winter, because the mountains in the north promise skiing enthusiasts great fun and the best conditions for a lot of fun on and off the slopes and hiking trails.

In Friuli Venezia Giulia, every kind of active holiday is possible and for those interested in art, the different cities of this area offer an additional incentive to travel extensively in this area of Italy.

And the eventful history of this region has also contributed to the fact that a microcosm of different cultures has been able to form here, all of which exist side by side and with each other.

Thus, the capital Trieste was once Austro-Hungarian, then Yugoslav and Italian again. All cultures have left their traces in this area and these can still be clearly seen and felt there today.

What attractions does the area offer?

The port metropolis of Trieste, which is also the largest city in the region, is the cultural starting point of a journey through Friuli-Venezia Giulia. Due to the significant influence of the Habsburgs in this capital, it is also known as the “Vienna of the Adriatic” and the architectural style of this era is clearly recognizable in many places.
Trieste itself is worth a visit due to its location alone and at many points of the city visitors will find a fantastic view over the harbour and the sea as well as a large number of historically interesting buildings and art treasures.

The Castello di Miramare is just as much a part of it as the Castello san Giusto, the Palazzo Pitteri and the many museums and other important places in and around the city.

Udine, Friuli-Venezia Giulia
Ancient Italian square arches and architecture in the city of Udine, Friuli Venezia Giulia, Image: xbrchx / shutterstock

Aquileia is another cultural site that should not be missed when visiting the Gulf of Trieste. This town, which has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1998, is known for its medieval basilica and its Roman excavations. An open-air museum of a special kind and an unforgettable experience for all visitors interested in archaeology. Also worth seeing is the town of Grado, which is located on an island in the Gulf of Venice and, in addition to beautiful beaches, is particularly impressive with a historic old town in Venetian style.

Again further inland is Udine. A city with squares depicted on the most beautiful Italian postcards and where visitors will find many other interesting buildings in addition to the impressive Castello.
In addition to the works of the painter Tiepolo, Udine is also known for art, antiques and jewellery, which are available for sale everywhere in the pretty old town.
And in the city’s many restaurants, the various wines of the region can be enjoyed and tasted, while the hustle and bustle of the squares and the balmy air invite you to dream and observe.

In general, Friulian dishes are a great pleasure, because the different influences from Slavic, Austrian and Italian cuisine combine to create an exquisite mixture. The “San Daniele” ham, registered as a worldwide trademark, can be tasted and bought on all corners of Udine.

In the west of the region is the third largest city Pordenone, which offers a lot of potential for a nice day trip due to its arcades, palaces and historic old town.
This also applies to Gorizia, the so-called twin city, which is separated from its second half Nova Gorica directly on the Slovenian border only by a river and the national border.

In 2025, both cities will be the European Capital of Culture and thus receive even more fame and attention.

Tips for a trip to Friuli Venezia Giulia

Due to its turbulent history, this Italian region is a melting pot for different cultures. This is also expressed in the languages located there. In addition to the national language Italian, Friulian, Slovenian and German are also recognized as styles.

To spend a holiday in this diverse region, good planning is useful to make the visit as good as possible.

Kalambaka – The Gateway to the Meteora Monasteries

Kalambaka is a small town in the Thessaly region of Greece, best known as the starting point for visiting the famous Meteora monasteries. The city is located at the foot of the Meteora Rocks, which are among the most impressive natural beauties in Greece. The rocks are known for their unique monasteries built on their peaks, which offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

History of the Meteora Monasteries

The history of the Meteora monasteries dates back to the 14th century, when monks began to live in the caves of the rocks. Over the years, more and more monasteries were built on the rocks, until eventually there were six main monasteries. The monasteries played an important role in the history of Greece and were threatened by various conquerors and wars over the centuries. Today, the monasteries are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and attract thousands of visitors from all over the world every year.

Visit to the Meteora monasteries

Meteora Monasteries
Meteora Monasteries, Image: Zebra Studio / shutterstock

There are several ways to visit the Meteora monasteries. Most visitors choose a guided tour, which usually includes a visit to two to three monasteries. The tours can be booked in Kalambaka and are a great way to learn more about the history and importance of the monasteries. Alternatively, visitors can also get to the monasteries individually by car or on foot.

The monasteries are not open to everyone, and visitors must follow certain dress codes. Women must cover shoulders and knees, and men must wear long pants. The monasteries have different opening hours and entrance fees, and it is advisable to research in advance which monasteries you want to visit.

Kalambaka itself is also worth a visit. The town has a charming old town with traditional Greek houses and narrow streets. There are many restaurants and cafes serving traditional Greek cuisine, as well as shops selling local products.

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Kalambaka and the Meteora monasteries are a must-see for every visitor to Greece. The impressive rocks and monasteries offer a glimpse into the country’s rich history and culture. Visitors should plan enough time to visit the monasteries at their leisure and also to explore the city of Kalambaka.

Patras – The third largest city in Greece

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Patras is a port city in the west of Greece and is the third largest city in the country. It is the perfect destination for travelers who want to experience the beauty of the Greek coastal landscapes and the culture and history of Greece. Patras is also known as the host of the annual Carnival festivities, which are considered the largest in Greece.

Sights in Patras

One of the city’s landmarks is the impressive Rio-Antirrio Bridge, one of the longest cable-stayed bridges in the world, which spans the Gulf of Patras and connects the islands of the Ionian Sea to the mainland. The view from the bridge to the sea and the surrounding countryside is breathtaking and should not be missed on any trip to Patras.

Another highlight of the city is the Archaeological Museum of Patras, which houses a collection of artifacts and excavations from the ancient city of Patras and the surrounding area. Visitors can learn about the rich history of the region and admire the remains of temples, theaters, and other ancient buildings.

Carnival in Patras
Carnival in Patras, Image: Aerial-motion / shutterstock

For nature lovers, there are plenty of opportunities to explore the surrounding countryside in Patras, including the beaches on the coast of the Gulf of Patras and the Panachaion mountain range, which rises to the west of the city. Hikers can hike here on well-marked trails and enjoy the breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.

When it comes to nightlife, Patras has a lively bar and club scene that is concentrated in the area around the port. There is also a wide range of traditional taverns where you can enjoy the local cuisine and taste the wine from the region.

The Patras Carnival is another attraction that takes place every year in February and attracts visitors from all over the world. The festivities last for several weeks and include parades, music, dancing and fireworks. The highlight is the “Great Parade” on the last weekend of the carnival, where the streets are filled with people in colorful costumes and masks.

Patras is also an ideal base for exploring other parts of Greece. The city is a short drive from Olympia, the birthplace of the Olympic Games, and is also a good starting point for trips to the islands of the Ionian Sea.

Olympia – Time travel to antiquity

Olympia, one of the most important places in Greek history and home of the Olympic Games. Located in the west of the Peloponnese peninsula, the city is famous for its ancient ruins, beautiful landscapes, and rich cultural significance.

Olympia, Greece
Olympia, Image: Mark and Anna Photography / shutterstock

The Olympic Games were first held in Olympia in 776 BC and were held every four years. The place was a religious center, and the games were part of a celebration in honor of the god Zeus. Today, visitors can tour the ancient ruins and feel the spirit of the ancient games. The Temple of Zeus, the Altis area and the ancient stadium are some of the main attractions.

In addition to the ruins, Olympia also offers stunning scenery that is perfect for hiking and exploring. The green hills, covered by cypress and olive trees, provide a picturesque backdrop for hiking and biking.

Another highlight of Olympia is the Archaeological Museum, which houses an extensive collection of artifacts from ancient Greece, including statues and relics from the Olympic Games. The museum is a great addition to visiting the ancient ruins and gives visitors a deeper insight into the history of the Olympic Games.

Away from ancient history, Olympia also offers a variety of activities for visitors. The city has a number of restaurants where you can sample Greek cuisine, as well as bars and cafes where you can relax and soak up the atmosphere. The town is also an ideal base for trips to nearby beaches and other attractions in the region.

Epidaurus: A Treasure of Greek Culture

Epidaurus is an ancient city on the Peloponnese Peninsula in Greece, known for its impressive theater and sacred sanctuaries. This place was once the center of the cult of the god of healing, Asclepius, and was a popular destination for pilgrims in search of healing and well-being. Today, Epidaurus is an important archaeological site that attracts visitors from all over the world.

One of the most recognizable features of Epidaurus is the theater, which dates back to the 4th century BC and is considered one of the best-preserved ancient theaters in the world. The theatre is famous for its excellent acoustics and is often used for performances and concerts. An interesting fact about the acoustics of the theater is that even a whisper on stage can be clearly heard in the back seats.

In addition to the theatre, there is also the sanctuary of Asclepius, which served as a place of healing and regeneration. Here, pilgrims and patients in search of healing and relief from their suffering could find support. The sanctuary includes various temples, fountains, and baths, as well as a museum that explains the history and significance of the place in more detail.

Another attraction in Epidaurus is the Archaeological Museum, which showcases an impressive collection of artifacts from the region. Exhibits include sculptures, inscriptions, and relics from the sanctuary of Asclepius, as well as ancient weapons and everyday objects from the area.

Epidaurus is a wonderful place to immerse yourself in the history and culture of Greece. The scenery is breathtaking, providing an impressive backdrop to the ancient ruins and sights. It is a place where one can experience the past and the present while discovering the beauty and mysticism of Greek culture.

Those planning a visit should take time to explore the surrounding area and visit the nearby towns and villages. One of the most popular options is Nafplio, a beautiful coastal town with a rich history and a wealth of cultural activities.

Mycenae – Unesco World Heritage Site

Mycenae, a city on the Peloponnese Peninsula in Greece, is a place of great historical and archaeological importance. The city is known for its connection to ancient Greek mythology and its impressive ruins that attract visitors from all over the world.

Mycenae was founded in the 2nd millennium BC and developed into a thriving city during the 14th and 13th centuries BC. It was the center of the Mycenaean Empire, which was one of the most powerful forces in the Eastern Mediterranean at the time. The city also played an important role in Greek mythology and was the hometown of King Agamemnon, one of the main characters in Homer’s epic “The Iliad”.
Today, Mycenae is known for its archaeological remains, which are located on a hill near the modern city of Mycenae. The ruins include the remains of the city walls, the Tholos tombs and the famous Lion’s Gate. The Lion’s Gate is the symbol of the city and Mycenaean culture and depicts two lions standing upright and guarding the entrance to the city.

Acropolis of Mycenae

Lion's Gate Mycenae
The Lion’s Gate, Image: Vineyard Perspective / shutterstock

One of the most impressive features of Mycenae is the Acropolis, which is located on the hill above the city. The Acropolis was the religious and political center of the city and contains remains of temples, palaces, and residential buildings. Visitors can explore the remains of the Palace of Agamemnon, which is said to have stood near the Lion’s Gate.

Another important attraction in Mycenae are the Tholos tombs, which originate from the 14th and 13th centuries BC. These tombs are impressive round buildings with a dome and were built for important personalities of the Mycenaean culture. The most famous of these tombs is the so-called Treasury of Atreus, which is considered one of the most impressive structures of Mycenaean architecture.

In addition to the archaeological remains, Mycenae also offers a picturesque setting surrounded by olive groves and vineyards. The city is close to the coast and offers visitors the opportunity to enjoy the beaches and crystal clear waters of the Mediterranean Sea.

The remains of the city and the mythological connections make Mycenae one of the most significant places in Greek history.

Bhubaneswar – the city of temples

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Bhubaneswar is the capital and also the largest city of the state of Odisha, which is located in eastern India. It is considered “the city of temples” because it has around 35 old and hundreds of new Hindu temples, most of which are dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva. The population is about 850,000 and consists of about 95% Hindus, 3% Muslims and the rest Christians, Buddhists, Jains and Sikhs. As is generally the case in India , the male population is 10% more strongly represented here. The regional languages are Odia, English and Hindi.

Bhubaneswar is located on the west bank of the Mahanadi River, which meanders through eastern India over a length of almost 850 kilometers. With a size of 135 km², the city of temples measures less than a fifth of Berlin or half of Vienna. The climate of the city is, as usual for India, very warm. Even in the winter months from November to February, the maximum daily temperatures are around 30°C.

Bhubaneswar has its finger on the pulse of time

After 1990, a lot of time was invested in the modernization of the city and a large number of small and medium-sized companies have settled here. In 2014, the city was even ranked as the best business location in India. Bhubaneswar Airport is the only one in the region and was named the best airport of India in 2013. The main railway station is located on the important Haora and Kolkata to Chennai route and thus has connections to Mumbai, Delhi and Hyderabad. Bhubaneswar is also strong in the field of education and can boast three universities, including Utkal University. The latter was founded in 1943, making it the oldest university in Odisha.

A city full of sights

Bhubaneswar offers something for everyone. Whether you are interested in culture, like hiking or just want to unwind! Cultural highlights include the Konark Sun Temple and the sandstone Rajarani Temple, built in the 12th century. Likewise, the Brahmeshwar Temple, the Mukteshwar Temple and the Lingaraj Temple, which is also known as the largest temple of Bhubaneswar, cannot be missed. All of them were 9. and Built in the 10th century, they are a precious treasure of Indian history, both architecturally and mythologically. Typical for most temples is the steeply rising tower structure and the division into a sanctum area with a cult image and a assembly hall in front of it.

In addition to numerous temples, the Odisha State Museum is also worth seeing. It is now one of the most important museums in all of India. Here you can see unique sculptures from all parts of the country, as well as tablets and coins, but also specimens of extinct and endangered animals and handicrafts such as musical instruments and textiles. Since 2018, there has also been the Odisha Crafts Museum, which, spread over eight rooms, is dedicated to different types of craftsmanship. The special thing here is that the buildings were built in the style of traditional huts. The walls are decorated with paintings and clay figures sit on the roofs.

Always up for a trip

Odissi Dancer
Odissi dancer, Image: ShaikhMeraj / shutterstock

The Dhauli Giri Hills are particularly suitable for an excursion. They are known for a rock edict of Emperor Ashoka that is over 2000 years old, which is now protected with a building made largely of glass. Only a few meters above you will find a rocky dome from which the front part of an elephant has been carved out. It is believed that this sculpture is one of the oldest surviving sculptures in all of India. Another absolute highlight is the Shanti Stupa, which was built in 1972 and is lined with wide staircases and houses impressive statues.

Another attraction is certainly the Udayagiri and Chandagiri caves. They are among the oldest cave monasteries in India and are located in a rocky terrain just outside Bhubaneswar. However, they are very easy to reach by taxi. The entire complex comprises about 33 caves and, due to the naming of rulers in the form of inscriptions, can be traced back to the 2. and 3rd century BC.

With a short bus ride you can also reach the Chausath Yogini Temple. This testifies to a matriarchal cult of the gods and shows more or less well-preserved statues of 60 female deities.

The palate also needs a vacation once in a while

Not only the countless temples, but also the unique dishes make the holiday in Bhubaneswar unforgettable. Let’s start the palate journey with Dalma, a simple but very tasty lentil dish. It continues with Chungdi-Malai, so that even non-vegetarians get their money’s worth. The shrimp curry impresses with a successful mixture of curry, coconut milk, ginger, cinnamon and red chili powder. In addition to tasty curries, numerous desserts are also a speciality around Bhubaneswar. Chhena poda is similar to a cheesecake and consists of semolina, raisins, sugar, crumbled paneer, almonds and cashew nuts. Rasabli is also a must-try. The small donut-shaped tikkis, made with cottage cheese, flour, semolina and sugar, and then fried until golden brown and marinated in thickened milk. A real treat for the palate!

Brahmaputra, the mighty river in northeastern India

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The Brahmaputra, in German “son of Brahma”, is one of the largest rivers in the world. It rises in the Himalayas in Tibet and flows through China, India and Bangladesh. On the way, it is fed by numerous bodies of water and changes its name several times. From the roof of the world at an altitude of 5200 meters, the river makes its way to the Bay of Bengal to flow into the Indian Ocean in the world’s largest coastal delta. On the long journey from its source to its mouth, the Brahmaputra covers a distance of 3100 kilometers through multifaceted landscapes and cultures. Among other things, it crosses the Assam Valley in India.

Setting off for new shores in a floating hotel

The magic and multifaceted nature of India is revealed on a cruise along the banks of the Brahmaputra. While passengers immerse themselves in an exciting and exotic world and discover its beauties, they enjoy the advantages and luxury of a comfortable cruise ship as well as a pleasant atmosphere and reliable accommodation. On the journey to new destinations and impressions, the hotel always travels with you. The Brahmaputra adventure can be experienced in a relaxed way on a river cruise.
The fascinating journey leads through the country’s incomparable nature with imposing landscapes, dense jungle and green forests. In the Assam Valley there are ten national parks and wildlife sanctuaries such as the well-known Kaziranga National Park. In addition, you will get to know the rich culture of India while visiting cities steeped in history.

On safari in Kaziranga National Park

Elephants in Kaziranga National Park
Elephants in Kaziranga National Park, Image: Aditya Singh / shutterstock

In the districts of Golaghat and Nagoan in the northern Indian state of Assam lies the Kaziranga National Park, one of the most beautiful places in India. It was founded in 1904 and 68 years later it was declared a national park. Since 1985, the park has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It has an area of more than 900 square kilometers and consists of tall grasslands, tropical forests and swamps as well as extensive elephant grasslands. In the north and east, the protected area is bordered by the Brahmaputra. It is the habitat for numerous rare animal species, including wild water buffalo, river dolphins, Asian elephants, Bengal tigers and Barasing deer. In addition, the park is one of the last protected areas of the Indian rhinoceros and is home to over 70% of the world’s total population. A safari in a jeep or on the back of an elephant allows visitors to get up close and personal with wild animals such as monkeys and tigers. It is also worth visiting the tea gardens and the villages of the rural tribes of the Karbi and the Mising on Majuli, the largest river island in the world.

Temples, palaces and historical sites line the path of river cruisers in India

Silghat, the town on the southern bank of the Brahmaputras, is the gateway to Kaziranga National Park and the Butterfly Forest. Last but not least, the breathtaking beauty of the surrounding landscape makes the place an attraction for numerous tourists.
Guwahati is the capital of the northeastern state of Assam. The metropolis between the picturesque hills of the Himalayan mountains is known as the gateway to northeastern India. Located on Nilachal Hill, Kamakhya Devi Temple is one of the most interesting sights.

It was built in the 10th century by King Naranarayan. Above Kamakhya is the smaller temple Bhubaneshwari, which offers a spectacular view of the city. On Mount Bhasmacala, on an island in the middle of the Brahmaputra, stands the Umananda Temple, built by King Gadadhar Singha. The State Museum, the Anthropological Museum, the Forest Museum and the Museum of Home Industry are treasure troves of Assam’s rich cultural past.
On the north bank of the mighty Brahmaputra River lies the beautiful city of Tezpur, the cultural center of Assam with a rich history. Worth seeing include the Da-Parbatia, one of the oldest and most beautiful collections of sculptural art in Assam, and the ruins of the Bamuni hill from the 9. and 10th century. The area is also famous for its tea plantations and hilly tea gardens.

One of India’s holiest pilgrimage centers is the Shiva Dol Temple from the Ahom Dynasty in Sibsagar. Its seven-foot-high dome, called Kolosi, is made of pure gold. Walls and columns inside the temple are decorated with figures and images of Hindu gods and goddesses.

Tea and silk on the banks of the river

Assam is known not least for the cultivation of tea. Especially in the valley of the Brahmaputra there are numerous tea plantations that produce the famous Assam tea. On a tour you will learn interesting details about tea production.

Sualkuchi, a tranquil village on the north bank of the Brahmaputra River, is the centre of textile production in Assam. For this reason, the silk weaving village is also known as the Manchester of India. The fine Assam silk is not produced anywhere else in the world. The place worth seeing with the rustic charm and its bamboo houses has become a popular tourist destination.

Esna – Gateway to Upper Egypt

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Esna, a city in the Luxor region of Egypt, is a beautiful and historically significant city that is worth visiting. This city is famous for its temple dedicated to the god Khnum and is often referred to as the gateway to Upper Egypt.

Knuhum Temple in Esna

Esna, Temple
View of the ceiling of the Esna Temple showing the Lotus Pillars, Image: harleyfp / shutterstock

The Khnum Temple in Esna is one of the best-preserved temples of ancient Egypt. It was built between the Built in the 3rd and 2nd centuries BC, it is an impressive example of the architecture and art of the Ptolemaic period. The temple is also known for its remarkable astronomical relief depictions on the walls, which represent the twelve hours of the night and refer to the movements of the stars. A visit to the Khnum Temple in Esna is therefore an absolute must.

The city also has a traditional bazaar district where visitors can buy exotic spices, jewelry, handicrafts, and carpets. The bazaar is a lively place that showcases the cultural and artisanal diversity of Egypt. Here you can haggle with the friendly merchants and take a piece of Egyptian culture home with you.

Popular stop on a Nile cruise

Cruise on the Nile
Cruise on the Nile, Image: erichon / shutterstock

Another highlight in Esna is a boat trip on the Nile. Many tourists choose to ride a boat along the river to enjoy the beauty of the banks of the Nile while admiring the ancient temples that can be seen along the shore. Such a boat trip can also be an excellent starting point for a visit to the nearby temples of Edfu and Kom Ombo, which are also impressive examples of ancient Egyptian architecture.

The city of Esna also offers many opportunities for recreational activities. For example, there are some golf courses in the area that can be used by tourists to spend their day. Some hotels also offer wellness and relaxation facilities such as spas and massage parlors where guests can relax and be pampered.

Esna is a city rich in history and culture, offering visitors a unique experience. Whether you’re visiting the ancient temples, strolling through the bazaars, or taking a boat ride on the Nile, Esna is a place where you won’t get bored. It is a perfect destination for travelers who want to discover Egypt’s rich cultural heritage.