The Colosseum in Rome is one of the most impressive structures of the ancient world and a must-see for any visitor to the Eternal City. Built between 70 and 80 AD, this monumental amphitheater was a place where gladiator fights, animal fights, and other public events took place.
The Colosseum is one of Rome’s most recognizable landmarks and an impressive example of Roman architecture and engineering. It is a masterpiece of engineering, built of sandstone and brick and could accommodate up to 50,000 spectators. It was the largest amphitheater of antiquity and is now the symbol of the eternal city.
The Colosseum was the place where some of the most famous events in ancient Rome took place. Here, gladiators fought in fierce battles for their lives and to entertain the audience. Animal fights, such as lions against humans, were also very popular and attracted the masses. But theatre performances and other public events were also held here.
Despite its importance as a symbol of Roman power and culture, the Colosseum has suffered many changes and damage over the centuries. It was used as a fortress, quarry, and even as a Christian shrine. In the Middle Ages, parts of the building were dismantled to make new buildings. Nevertheless, the Colosseum remains one of the most impressive architectural masterpieces in the world and an unforgettable experience for every visitor.
The Colosseum is now one of the most popular tourist destinations in Rome. It is a place where you can experience the history of the city and the Roman Empire up close. Visitors can walk through the interior of the building and imagine what it must have been like when the amphitheater was still in operation. From the upper tiers you have a breathtaking view of the surrounding grounds and the city of Rome.
If you want to visit the Colosseum, you should get up early to avoid long queues. A guided tour is recommended to understand the full extent of the history and architecture of the Colosseum. Visitors should wear comfortable shoes and allow enough time to explore the different areas of the building.
The Colosseum is a masterpiece of architecture and a symbol of Roman history. A visit to Rome is incomplete without a trip to the Colosseum. The impressive building is a marvel of engineering and a must-see for anyone interested in the ancient world and the history of Rome.
The Taj Mahal is undoubtedly one of the most impressive architectural masterpieces in the world and a symbol of the beauty and splendor of the Indian subcontinent. Built in the 17th century by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan, the mausoleum is a perfect example of the splendor and richness of Mughal art and one of India’s most visited tourist attractions.
The Taj Mahal is located in the city of Agra in the state of Uttar Pradesh and was built between 1632 and 1653. It was built by Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal, who passed away during the birth of her 14th child. The structure was built by thousands of workers and craftsmen recruited from different parts of India and even from the Middle East, Persia and Central Asia.
The Taj Mahal is made of white marble and is a perfect example of Mughal architecture. It is surrounded by a spacious garden crossed by symmetrical water channels. The main building is a perfect example of the art of incrustation, where precious and semi-precious stones were carved into the marble to create intricate geometric patterns and floral ornaments.
The mausoleum consists of a central dome and four minarets that sit on a square platform. Inside are the tombs of Shah Jahan and Mumtaz Mahal, which are surrounded by numerous ornate marble works and relief representations. The dome is decorated with gilded frescoes and inscriptions from Koranic verses, which impress the visitor with their beauty and magnificence.
The Taj Mahal is an impressive structure at any time of the day, but it’s especially worth visiting at sunrise or sunset, when the colors of the marble appear different depending on the sunlight. However, it can get very hot and crowded during the hot summer months, so it’s recommended to visit early in the morning or late in the evening to avoid the crowds.
Overall, the Taj Mahal is a landmark of India and a must-see for every visitor to the country. It is a perfect example of the beauty and splendor of Mughal art and a place that enchants visitors with its beauty and history. A visit to the Taj Mahal is an unforgettable experience that excites and inspires any traveler.
At an altitude of 1062 meters, the Canadian city of Jasper is nestled in the Jasper National Park. The contrast between city life and the impressive natural landscape is unique and so Jasper has become a popular travel destination. All year round, the picturesque town in the province of Alberta is the perfect starting point for exploring the largest national park in the Canadian Rockies.
Due to its central location in Jasper National Park, the charming town of Jasper is the perfect destination for nature lovers who want to discover the original Canada . From the impressive peaks to the beautiful lakes of the region and the rivers, there is a lot to discover around Jasper, so unforgettable moments are guaranteed.
Named after Jasper Hawes, an employee of the North West Company, the town’s history began with the establishment of a supply depot called Jasper House in 1813. This was moved a few years later as a trading post to the confluence of the Athabasca and Snake Indian rivers. Gradually, of course, the families of the employees also settled and so the foundation stone of the mountain town was laid.
To this day, the original charm of the city has been preserved. Thus, despite tourism, there are no building sins in the town. This is not least due to the fact that the Canadian park administration has regulated the acquisition of real estate and the influx of non-resident families. Thanks to the restriction, Jasper remained a small town that can be easily explored on foot.
In the center of the town, small shops, supermarkets, souvenir shops and restaurants are lined up and even from the shopping street you can enjoy the dreamlike scenery of the peaks of the Rocky Mountains. Visitors can learn more about the history of the city and the national park at the Jasper Yellowhead Museum.
Jasper National Park
With a breathtakingly beautiful natural landscape and impressive flora and fauna, Jasper National Park exerts a special fascination. As part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site “Canadian Rocky Mountain Parks”, the national park, founded in 1907, is not only an attraction for tourists, but also a natural habitat for numerous mammals. Among other things, grizzly bears, black bears, pumas, moose, wolves, lynxes and elk live in the park. Even in the town of Jasper, elk can be observed using the flowers planted there as food in the gardens. With an area of 10,878 km², Jasper National Park is the largest national park in the Canadian Rockies and offers a variety of fascinating excursion destinations.
Places of interest in and around Jasper
Jasper “SkyTram”
A stay in Jasper should not end without enjoying a ride on the Jasper SkyTram. This is the longest and highest tram in Canada. The tram route leads from Jasper to Whistlers Mountain. The tram with the closed gondolas starts at an altitude of 1,304 meters and the route ends at 2,277 meters above sea level. Wihstlers Mountain offers spectacular views of the Rocky Mountains, the town of Jasper and the region’s defining Athabasca River.
Hot Springs of Miette
Jasper National Park is a water-rich area. In addition to rivers and lakes, there are also hot springs that offer a very special wellness experience. In the spectacular scenery, you can enjoy an open-air swim in a pool fed by the region’s hottest springs. While the mineral-rich water emerges from the mountainside steaming at 54 ° C, the water in the pool ultimately has a pleasant 40 ° C.
Jasper Discovery Trail
Moose in Jasper National Park, Image: Weekend Warrior Photos / shutterstock
The Jasper Discovery Trail runs around the mountain town. The well-developed and pleasant trail offers the opportunity to circle the city over a distance of 8 kilometers and discover fantastic views of the city and the mountain peaks of the Rocky Mountains for yourself.
Jasper Planetarium
In the Rocky Mountains, stargazing is a special treat. Accordingly, a visit to the city’s planetarium is worthwhile. The region has been designated a Dark Sky Preserve by the Royal Astronomical Society of Canada and offers optimal conditions for stargazing. The planetarium is known for its interactive shows and powerful outdoor telescopes.
Athabasca Falls
The Athabasca Falls is one of the most impressive waterfalls in Jasper National Park. The water of the Athabasca River plunges over 23 meters into the depths and thus offers a spectacular natural spectacle.
Columbia Icefield Skywalk
The Columbia Icefield Skywalk is always worth a trip. The glass-bottomed Skywalk offers the opportunity to step over a cliff and stand practically above the depths, taking in a unique view of the peaks.
Maligne Lake
One of the impressive destinations is the Maligne Lake. Although the lake is one of many in the Rocky Mountains, its aquamarine waters and location between rugged glaciers and forested peaks make it a great backdrop for carefree hours in one of the world’s most spectacular natural landscapes.
Maligne Canyon
A spectacular water feature in summer and a breathtakingly beautiful ice landscape in winter, the canyon inspires at first sight. If you hike here on the paths above the gorge, you can see up to 50 meters into the depths, where the water has made a swath through the limestone ground.
Facts about Jasper and its national park
Jasper National Park was established in 1907, making it one of Canada’s oldest national parks.
The park covers an area of 11,228 km² and includes a variety of ecosystems, including alpine meadows, forests, rivers, and glaciers.
Jasper is home to more than 70 species of mammals, including grizzly bears, elk, moose, and mountain sheep.
The park is also home to more than 250 species of birds, including eagles, hawks, and eagle owls.
The Icefields Parkway, which runs through Jasper, is one of the most beautiful roads in the world and offers spectacular views of the mountains and glaciers.
Maligne Lake, one of the most famous lakes in the park, is the second largest glacial lake in the world and offers boat tours, hiking, and fishing.
Jasper is a dark sky park, which means there is little light pollution and the night sky is ideal for stargazing.
Tourism is the main industry in Jasper, and there are many activities for visitors, including hiking, biking, skiing, wildlife viewing, and camping.
Bad Kreuznach is a charming spa town in the heart of Rhineland-Palatinate, known for its soothing thermal springs and impressive scenery. With a rich history, a relaxed atmosphere and numerous activities offered throughout the year, Bad Kreuznach is the ideal destination for people looking for a relaxing holiday.
Bad Kreuznach is a true paradise for those seeking relaxation. Known as a spa town since the Middle Ages, the city offers a variety of thermal baths that offer a variety of health benefits. One of the most famous are the Crucenia Thermal Baths, which provides absolute relaxation with its 32°C warm thermal water and various saunas and steam baths. The Salinental, the “Valley of the White Gold”, is also an absolute highlight for health and wellness enthusiasts. The salty air in this valley has a healing effect on the respiratory tract and skin.
History and culture of Bad Kreuznach
Rheingrafenstein near Bad Kreuznach, Image: Reiner Conrad / shutterstock
But Bad Kreuznach is not only known for wellness. The city also has a fascinating history and a rich culture to discover. One of the city’s most famous landmarks is the Old Nahe Bridge, which has existed for over 800 years and played an important role in trade between France and Germany . The Museum of Puppet Theatre Culture and the Römerhalle Museum are also highly recommended and offer a deep insight into the history and culture of the region.
The landscape around Bad Kreuznach is breathtaking and invites you to take walks and hikes. The Nahe Cycle Path, which runs along the Nahe River, is one of the most beautiful cycle paths in Germany and offers a magnificent view of the surrounding vineyards and forests. The surrounding area is also known for its numerous vineyards and wineries that produce excellent wines. A wine tasting in one of the many wineries is an unforgettable experience.
Excursions in the area
For the more adventurous, there are also numerous activities in the area around Bad Kreuznach, such as canoeing, climbing and paragliding. The Soonwald climbing park, which is only a short drive away from Bad Kreuznach, offers a challenging climbing route with breathtaking views of the surrounding area.
The city also has a vibrant restaurant and bar scene. The local cuisine is characterized by regional specialties such as hand cheese with music, a hearty cheese dish, and the cobbler’s pan, a delicious stew with meat, potatoes and vegetables. In the many bars and pubs you can end the evening with a cold beer or a glass of wine.
First time Australia! An experience that most holidaymakers will not forget in a hurry. Unlike intra-European travel, however, a few major preparation steps are necessary. Without a visa and clever planning, the dream vacation in the outback does not work. We have summarized them, the best information and tips on how to make your Australian vacation a highlight right from the start.
When to go to Australia? All about the travel time
The best time to travel to Australia cannot be named in such a general way. The country is divided into four climatic zones and individual conditions prevail everywhere. Spring is one of the most popular travel times, especially for nature fans. But beware: everything is a little different in Australia , spring here means the time from September to November. Summer begins in December and continues into February. It can get very warm here, especially in the tropical regions, a holiday is now difficult. If you don’t like it too warm, travel to Australia in winter between June and August. On average, between 10 and 20 degrees are to be expected.
Lifted off: The flight to the outback
The Great Ocean Road, Image: Yunsun_Kim / shutterstock
Around 24 hours of flight time await travelers who want to spend their vacation in Australia. It is worthwhile to book through a reputable provider and use TravelEssence for Austrian air travel , for example. High-quality airlines guarantee an optimal holiday process, from arrival to return home.
During the long flight, it makes sense to focus on employment. Books, podcasts or even several films and series for binge watching pass the time. To prevent thrombosis, it is important to get up from your seat once in a while and walk around the plane. This is allowed as soon as the corresponding symbol appears above the seat.
Visa for Australia – there are different options
A visa is required for most foreign travelers, but there are different types. They vary depending on the nationality and the purpose of the stay. Here is a small overview:
Tourist: For travellers who wish to travel to Australia temporarily to take a holiday, visit friends and family, or take part in a short course or study trip. This visa can be applied for online and is usually valid for up to 3 months. You need a passport that is valid for at least 12 weeks.
Work permit: For visitors to the country who want to work or study in Australia to improve their professional skills. There are different types of work visas, depending on the type of employment and the employer’s requirements.
Student: Suitable for young people who want to study in Australia. This visa usually requires enrollment at an Australian educational institution and is valid for the duration of your studies.
Applying for the visa on time is essential, as processing times can vary. Today, the classic tourist visa can even be applied for online and is available within a very short time. Australians are strict about entry. Those who cannot show a visa will not be allowed into the country.
Conclusion: Good preparation for the trip to Australia
A holiday in Australia is a very special event. Good preparation is the be-all and end-all, because only those who plan carefully can fully look forward to their time in the outback.
Have you had enough of the standard holiday in Mallorca and want to explore a whole new part of the world? Canada offers you pure nature, friendly people and lots of variety. Canadians are known for appreciating every tourist. So here you will always come across a friendly word and can always find the right contact person in case of problems. But which of the most beautiful Canadian cities should it be? Here is a small top selection of tourists!
Canada is a culturally rich country with numerous cities worth seeing. One of them is the metropolis of Vancouver, which you can also enjoy on holiday with Littleamerica in Canada . The special feature of the city is the interplay of metropolis and nature. All around you will come across mountain landscapes and coast, so that athletes in particular will get their money’s worth. Whether mountain biking, hiking or skiing, you will find variety in Vancouver at any time of the year.
Include a visit to Stanley Park in your adventure, as it is one of the most beautiful recreational parks in the world. If you’re looking for a bargain, you must also visit the Granville Island Public Market. Here you can get wonderfully crafted handicraft products from Canadian creativity.
The largest city in the country – a guest in Toronto
View of the Toronto skyline, Image: Lucky-photographer / shutterstock
If you want to experience cultural diversity and variety, look no further than Canada’s largest city, Toronto. Here you can expect modern architecture and lots of contrasts. While the Distillery District is a haven for hip designer shops and art galleries, Chinatown is full of smells and colors. Young holidaymakers are particularly drawn to Queen West, the adventurous and creative district of the city, where boutique hotels and coffee shops alternate.
If you’re traveling in September, be sure to check out the Toronto International Film Festival. This is where the Hollywood stars gather and experience a gigantic gala with numerous parties throughout the city. If you’re not careful, you’ll quickly find yourself at the breakfast table with a celebrity.
The capital of Canada – Ottawa is also worth a visit
Ottawa is the capital of the country, but it is not nearly as well-known as Vancouver, Montreal or Quebec City. And yet it is worth planning a stopover here. By the way, this is also possible if you are actually exploring the USA and want to make a stopover before returning home.
It has become established as a small insider tip to visit Ottawa , especially in winter. Because then the Rideau Canal is one of the most beautiful sights. The gigantic canal is transformed into a varied ice skating rink. Eight kilometres in total length make it possible for you to explore Ottawa on runners.
But even in summer you don’t have to miss out on the sight of the canal. There are various boats at your disposal that you can use to explore the city from the water. Since 2007, the canal, which is well worth seeing, has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Conclusion: Canada as a diverse travel destination
There are only three cities that we have presented to you here. But there is much more to see in Canada. Smaller cities such as Calgary near the Rocky Mountains are also a very popular destination.
India’s Kaziranga National Park is located between the Brahmaputra River in the north and National Route 37 in the south, in the state of Assam. The area of about 919 km² consists mainly of swamps, forests and tall grasslands. Since 1985, the Kaziranga National Park has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site, since 2005 it has been an elephant reserve and since 2007 an official tiger reserve.
These large wild animals can almost only be found here
In Asia, too, wild animals suffer from hunting and the destruction of their habitat. This makes shelters such as the Kaziranga National Park all the more important. For visitors, large animals are usually the most interesting. In Kaziranga you will find five impressive species.
About 65% of all Indian rhinoceroses still in existence live here. This makes this national park the most important protected area for the endangered Indian rhinoceros (Rhinoceros unicornis), also known as the Indian rhinoceros or unicorned rhinoceros. Unfortunately, it is also threatened by poaching in the national park, as its horn is in high demand in traditional Chinese medicine.
Also threatened by poaching because of its tusks is the Asian elephant (Elephas maximus), for which this national park is also an important protected area. Encountering a herd of these second largest land animals in the world is an unforgettably impressive experience, which is quite possible in Kaziranga.
The Bengal tiger (Panthera tigris tigris), also known as the king tiger or Indian tiger, is also one of the five large animal species that find a protected habitat in this national park. Unfortunately, this is sorely needed, as there are only about 2,500 of these beautiful animals left in the wild. With a bit of luck, you can observe one of these rare animals on a jeep safari through the national park.
The grouper deer (Rucervus) or Barasingha is an Indian deer species that stands out for its angular antlers, often bearing 12 to 14 ends. The populations of this deer, which lives near wetlands, are endangered outside the national park due to habitat destruction and infection with diseases of domestic animals.
The fifth large animal species is the wild water buffalo. Although water buffalo are widespread as farm animals in Asia, the wild conspecifics have now become very rare.
Other animals and plants of the Kaziranga National Park
In this national park you will encounter numerous animal and plant species, some of which can only be found there. Of the approximately 35 mammal species, 15 are considered endangered species. The park is also home to 27 species of reptiles, 9 different amphibians, 29 species of fish and 500 species of birds. In addition, there are over 540 plant species, including lotus flowers, water lilies and water hyacinths. So there is a lot to discover in Kaziranga.
The origin and development of Kaziranga National Park
Elephants in Kaziranga National Park, Image: Aditya Singh / shutterstock
The beginnings of the park date back to 1905 and on the initiative of the then English Viceroy, Lord Curzon. In 1908, a core area was designated as a forest nature reserve. In 1916 it became a game reserve. It was not until 1938 that the first visitors were admitted. In 1947, India became independent from England and in 1950 the Indian state declared the area a nature reserve. At that time, the area had a size of 430 km². In February 1974, the area received the status of a national park. Since 1997, the park has been slowly but steadily enlarged by land purchases on the outskirts.
How to get to Kaziranga National Park
By plane, you can fly either to Jorhat, 96 km away, or to Tezpur Airport, which is just under 60 km away. From there, you can continue by rental car, taxi or bus to the national park. The nearest train station is Furkating Junction, about a 2-hour drive from the park.
What is the best time of year to visit Kaziranga National Park?
From July to October there is a rainy season in this area. The Brahmaputra then floods part of the park and many animals leave the area. On the other hand, there is almost no rain between November and April. The animals then returned to the park. This is the best time to go on a successful safari through the national park.
How to visit Kaziranga National Park
Because of the tigers living freely in the national park, no hikes can be made through the park. That would be far too dangerous. It is also forbidden to enter the park without a guide. In the months of November to April, however, various guided safaris are offered – with jeeps or on elephants. If you want to observe elephants and rhinos, you should book a safari that starts at dawn. There are observation towers scattered throughout the park from which you can get a good view of the park’s wildlife. In the information centre of the national park, visitors can find out about the park and nature and wildlife protection.
The Canadian winter sports resort of Whistler impresses with its breathtaking location and idyllic flair. Located in the alpine regions of British Columbia, Whistler makes the heart of all skiers beat faster, but also in summer the place has a lot to offer not only for athletes.
Fantastic snow conditions in Whistler, Image: Juana Nunez / shutterstock
Whistler Village is located in the middle of rugged nature at the foot of Whistler Mountain and Blackcomb Peak. Nevertheless, it is only a two-hour drive from Vancouver to the wildly romantic ski resort – a stone’s throw by Canadian standards. The good accessibility is a great advantage, especially for international tourists. However, if you take a rental car, you should keep in mind that Whistler Village itself is car-free. However, there is public transport and shuttle services to the most important places further away, everything else is within easy walking distance. In this way, the charm of the idyllic place, which looks like a living film set, can be explored in peace and stress-free. There are numerous restaurants, cultural institutions and shopping opportunities to discover, so that there is no boredom.
Winter sports are very important in Whistler
Whistler is particularly popular with winter sports enthusiasts due to its excellent location. In addition to numerous opportunities for cross-country skiing, downhill skiing and snowboarding, the Canadian resort has a lot more to offer for athletes and snow lovers. Those who want to be active in sports will also get their money’s worth with bobsleigh and toboggan rides, ice skating or snowshoeing.
Heli and cat skiing are also offered. Skiers are dropped off by helicopter or snow groomer (called Cat in Canada ) in pristine ski resorts so that they can enjoy the virgin snow and privacy, but also train their skiing skills, which are presented with completely new challenges here. If you prefer to take it easy or need a day break from sports, you will also get your money’s worth in Whistler in winter. Sleigh rides, snowmobile tours or dog sledding invite you to explore the area and enjoy the vastness and natural beauty of the country. Helicopter and ice cave adventures provide a certain thrill and offer completely new insights and views. Thrills are also the keyword in ziplining, because you glide freely through the wild mountain landscape in a safe device hanging freely on a steel cable.
Fun and excitement are guaranteed. Sightseeing is a little less fast-paced with the PEAK 2 PEAK cable car, which offers a panoramic view of the breathtaking landscape of the Canadian mountains. A glass floor also allows a bird’s eye view, but is not for the faint of heart. As the day draws to a close and the night envelops Whistler in darkness, the Vallea Lumina invites you to relax, dream and enjoy. Enchanting lighting effects transform the landscape into a magical place that stimulates the imagination and leaves a lasting impression.
Summer in Whistler
View of Lake Alta in Whistler, Image: SimonaKoz / shutterstock
Whistler is a classic winter sports resort, whose strengths lie in the cold season. But it also has a lot to offer visitors in the summer months. Ziplining and cable car sightseeing are just as possible during the warm months as they are in winter. If you want to do sports, you also have numerous options to choose from. Instead of skis, hiking boots are now booming, but mountain biking or water sports on a five lakes around Whistler also provide action and relaxation. Some of the lakes also have sandy beaches that invite you not only to relax, but also to do activities such as beach volleyball.
Adventurous visitors get their money’s worth with quad tours or bear watching. During the bear safaris, guests explore the wild nature of Canada in off-road vehicles with an experienced tour guide, visiting places frequented by the approximately 60 brown bears that live in the area. With a little luck, you can even experience playful bear cubs.
Culture and relaxation
Away from the trails, trails and hiking trails, Whistler also has a lot to offer. It is worth taking a look at the calendar of events in advance, because there are concerts, exhibitions, festivals and markets throughout the year. Art and culture are very important in the mountain town. However, it is not only contemporary culture that is on the agenda, because at the Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Center, visitors get numerous interesting insights into the culture of the Squamish and Lil’wat Nations, the indigenous indigenous people of this region. You will experience traditional ceremonies and can marvel at the artistic handicrafts of the two peoples.
In the center, you can marvel at canoes, totem poles or traditional blankets and clothing, among other things. Visitors can also take part in workshops, where they learn, among other things, how to build real dream catchers or drums themselves and get to know their original meaning. If you don’t want to lend a hand yourself, you can buy original souvenirs in the souvenir shop. The Whistler Museum focuses on the history of the ski resort. In addition to the cultural facilities, Whistler also has a lot to offer in terms of wellness. Several spas and gyms ensure that the good body feeling is not neglected. Also a treat for body and soul are the restaurants in the village, which offer a diverse selection of dishes. Some restaurants are located high in the mountains and offer spectacular views of the countryside. The special and a little exclusivity is part of everyday life in Whistler in every respect. This contributes to the special charm of the picturesque place, which has a very personal adventure to offer for every visitor.
No other country in the world is so intensively shaped by a single river. Egypt – that is the Nile, the origin of all life and a gift from heaven for the people on its banks. If you decide to take a Nile cruise, you will immerse yourself deeply in history, because this river is the source of an incomparable high culture and a river for eternity. This is the lifeline of great dynasties from the period of the pharaohs. Leisurely and without any hurry, the passengers of a Nile cruise sail past gigantic pyramids and testimonies of a sunken world. The realm of the dead has preserved its myth to this day, and a passage on the Nile has always been an experience of an extraordinary kind.
The glory of the pharaohs has stood the test of time
Getting to know Egypt on a Nile cruise, Image: paula french / shutterstock
For a long period of history, the empire of the pharaohs lay in the fog of oblivion. It was Napoleon Bonaparte’s campaign into Egypt that aroused curiosity and longing among Europeans on the threshold of the 19th century. “All great fame comes from the banks of the Nile and from this part of the Orient,” Bonaparte let it be known, and probably did not suspect that he was triggering a boom in the Old World. Those who were well-heeled travelled to Egypt from then on. And little has changed to this day, because anyone who boards a modern ship in the capital Cairo can look forward to an unforgettable journey. The glory of the pharaohs has stood the test of time. More than any other culture on the planet.
The Egyptians’ longing for immortality
The wonders on the banks of the Nile are as mysterious as ever, and their massive tombs were understood by the people of ancient Egypt as their very personal homes for eternity. In their graves, the dead achieved immortality. The ideas of belief in the gods and of the afterlife were the driving forces for artistic creation and for the gigantism of numerous buildings. The Egyptians’ longing for life in another sphere determined people’s actions and thoughts over a long period of history. On the outskirts of Cairo, the hustle and bustle disappears, and at the latest on board a modern cruise ship, guests feel more than just a hint of peace and seclusion.
On the Nile cruise to the historic “Valley of the Kings” near Luxor
The Nile divides Luxor into two parts, Image: Marcelo Alex / shutterstock
Presumably, the time of a cruise on the Nile is not enough to visit all the historical sites extensively. And so the majority of providers of Nile cruises limit themselves to the highlights on the banks of the longest river on the African continent. The palaces and temples of ancient Thebes, which can now be found on maps as “Luxor”, are located on the eastern bank of the river. If you decide to go to the city of the dead, you have to cross over to the western bank. Numerous passengers on a Nile cruise get into the seats of the horse-drawn cabs and are chauffeured to the temple of Karnak, the temple complex of the god Amun. For a period of two millennia, Karnak was the most important sanctuary of ancient Egypt. The temple complex of Luxor is very well preserved. Today, the ancient city is the starting point of Nile cruises downstream. In the vicinity of Luxor, the legendary “Valley of the Kings” begins, where 65 pharaohs’ tombs – including that of the young regent Tutankhamun – were discovered in a mountain massif.
Thanks to UNESCO, Abu Simbel was saved
One of the most magnificent paintings in the “Valley of the Kings” is the tomb of the Nefertari. Some passengers on a Nile cruise refrain from hiking along dusty paths at the interesting settlement of the necropolis workers and instead let themselves be taken to the historic graves in the saddle of a donkey. Another highlight of a cruise on the great river is a visit to the Nile island of Elephantine with its beautiful museum. But the rock tombs of Aswan are also worth noting. The place gained a lot of attention when the construction of the huge Nile dam began in the middle of the 20th century and not only some Nubian villages sank into the masses of water. There was a danger that the imposing temples of Abu Simbel, 290 kilometers south of Aswan, would fall victim to the dammed water of the Nile. UNESCO finally saved the temples of Ramses II. The relocation of the shrine was a joint effort of many nations in five years of work. All colossal statues were given a new place undamaged.
Thirty dynasties and a 5000-year-old history
For more than thirty dynasties, the pharaohs ruled their empire on the banks of the Nile. Historians still find it difficult to understand what happened over such a long period between Alexandria on the Mediterranean Sea and the great rock temples of Abu Simbel and what everyday life was once like for the people there. After all, scientists deciphered the hieroglyphics, which the Greeks once believed to be a kind of “cipher”. The Frenchman Jean François Champollion finally found the solution and made an important contribution to understanding the realm of the dead of the Egyptians and their inscriptions in the tombs. And a cruise on the stream of life is an encounter with five thousand years of history of this interesting country. On board, passengers are spoiled with culinary delicacies and provided with a lot of information. A cruise on the Nile is the key to understanding this enigmatic period of Egyptian history.
The southern French city of Avignon is located in the heart of Provence. It is not only called the river city because of its geographical location, but also the city of the popes because of its religious past. From 1309 to 1417, Avignon was the seat of the pope and the capital of Christianity. The historic city centre with its impressive stone architecture is under the protection of UNESCO and was declared a World Heritage Site in 1995. The Papal Palace, the 12th-century cathedral and the Hotel d’Europe are examples of well-preserved buildings from the time of the medieval papacy. The medieval bridge Pont d’Avignon is particularly world-famous, which is sung about in a well-known French folk song that the whole world can probably sing along.
The southern French city of Avignon is located in the heart of Provence. It is the largest city and administrative center of the department of Vaucluse. Here the two rivers Durance and Rhone join together, with the Durance forming the southern city boundary, the Rhône separating the city from the department of Grad. As early as the Neolithic Age, the first settlements existed on the Übel Rocher des Doms. During Roman times, Avignon was an important trading center, and in the 14th century, popes ruled over Avignon
Best time to visit
Avignon has a Mediterranean climate, similar to that of Nice or Marseille. This means that the maximum daily temperature in the months of April to October is between 20 and 26° C. From November onwards, the weather cools down quickly, but the winters are so mild that you can still wear comfortable clothes without any problems. Apart from violent thunderstorms in summer, the region around Avignon is rather low in precipitation.
Avignon’s top sights
The historic city centre is home to numerous sights, which are particularly reminiscent of the time as the papal seat. Friends of fascinating medieval architecture in particular will get their money’s worth in Avignon. These are the must-see highlights for every visitor.
Saint-Benezet Bridge
The famous “Pont d’Avignon”, built in the 12th century, is the symbol of the city. It was once more than 900 m long and connected the two districts on the left and right of the Rhone. The bridge was repeatedly destroyed by floods and wars and had to be restored. Today, only four of a total of 22 arches have been preserved.
The Saint-Benezet Bridge was named after Saint Benezet, who is said to be responsible for the construction of the bridge. According to legend, the shepherd boy Benezet was instructed by an angel to build a bridge. He proved his divine power by carrying the foundation stone. According to a world-famous French folk song, people dance happily on the Pont d’Avignon. Those who visit the remains of the Saint-Benezet Bridge will have a fascinating view of the city walls and the Palace of the Popes.
Palace of the Popes
Palace of the Popes in Avignon, Image: Grisha Bruev / shutterstock
The Pope’s Palace is one of the absolute highlights of the city. A visit should definitely be on the to-do list of tourists. The palace, built in the 14th century, was the residence of several popes and represented the power of the Catholic Church at that time, which can be seen from the fact that this gigantic building in Gothic style has little to do with a normal papal residence. It is more reminiscent of a castle as you know it from secular rulers. Almost all areas of the palace can be visited, including the two-storey cloister, the courtyard of honour as well as the private apartments of the popes and the dining and banqueting hall. A touchscreen tablet provides insights into the facilities and uses of the rooms at the time.
Avignon Cathedral
The Romanesque-style Avignon Cathedral stands right next to the Palace of the Popes and dates back to the 12th century. A special highlight is the gilded statue of Mary on the top of the bell tower. Also worth seeing are the baroque interior and the bishop’s throne made of white marble, on which the popes sat. In addition, the mausoleum of Pope John XII and the treasury can be visited.
Place de l’Horloge
A few steps away from the Palace of the Popes is the Place de l’Horloge, where modern life pulsates. Numerous bars and restaurants invite you to linger and celebrate. For kids, the nostalgic carousel in the middle of the square should be a highlight. Particularly interesting are the town hall, the opera house and the clock tower, which gave the square its name. From here you can also reach the pedestrian zone, where many shops and boutiques offer opportunities for strolling and shopping.
Les Halles
Gourmets will get their money’s worth in the market hall. A special eye-catcher is the northern façade, which consists of a vertical green garden. The market hall opens every morning from Tuesday to Sunday.
Les Grads Bateaux de Provence
The one-hour boat trip on the Rhône offers a beautiful view of Avignon. A reservation is not necessary.
Rocher des Doms
On this rocky outcrop in the north are the Pope’s Palace and the great Hathedrale. In the Neolithic Age, the first inhabitants settled here, which is why the Rocher des Domes is considered the cradle of Avignon. Behind the cathedral is a park that is used by many families for local recreation. There is a plateau, a lake, lawns and old trees that provide shade Children can let off steam on two playgrounds. There is also a restaurant with a snack bar. Dogs are not welcome in the Jardin des Roms.
Festival d’Avignon
The Festival d’Avignon takes place every year in July. The art festival attracts numerous visitors to the city with theatre, film and dance performances as well as street theatre and walking acts.
