Columbus is the vibrant capital of Ohio, characterized by its diversity, culture, and historic charm. As one of the largest cities in the Midwest, Columbus is an exciting destination that has a lot to offer visitors, from impressive sights to unique dining experiences. Let’s explore the highlights of this vibrant city together.
Columbus is a city that proudly showcases its cultural diversity and history. A must-see for any visitor is the Ohio Statehouse, a magnificent example of neoclassical architecture perched in the heart of the city. Here you can learn more about Ohio’s history and marvel at the impressive halls and works of art. Another historical treasure is the German Village, a charming neighborhood with cobblestone streets and restored 19th-century houses that is a reminder of the city’s German roots.
Arts & Entertainment
Art lovers will get their money’s worth in Columbus. The Columbus Museum of Art houses an impressive collection of American and European art, while the Wexner Center for the Arts showcases contemporary artwork and performances. For lively evening entertainment, the Short North Arts District offers an abundance of galleries, restaurants, and boutiques that stay open late into the night.
Green oases and outdoor activities
The Ohio Statehouse at dawn in Columbus, Image: Sean Pavone / shutterstock
Columbus is also known for its beautiful parks and green spaces. The Scioto Mile is a picturesque riverside promenade that is ideal for walking, jogging and cycling. The Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens offers a glimpse into exotic plant life and impressive glass art. For families, the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium is a highlight, offering an exciting variety of animals and attractions.
Culinary discoveries
The culinary scene in Columbus is as diverse as the city itself. In the North Market, you’ll find everything from local specialties to international delicacies. Enjoy a craft beer at one of the city’s many microbreweries or visit one of the gourmet restaurants that offer innovative American cuisine.
Travel
Columbus is easily accessible by car, bus, or via John Glenn Columbus International Airport. The city offers a variety of accommodation, from luxurious hotels to cozy bed and breakfasts. The best time to visit is from spring to autumn, when the weather is mild and the city offers numerous festivals and events.
Columbus, Ohio is a destination that enchants every visitor with its cultural diversity, historic landmarks, art offerings and culinary delights. This vibrant city in the heart of America is a true treasure waiting to be discovered. Plan your next city trip to Columbus and experience for yourself what this extraordinary city has to offer.
Cap d’Agde, a picturesque spot on France’s Mediterranean coast, is a true gem for travelers looking for something special. Known for its diverse beaches, pleasant climate and vibrant culture, this place offers something for every holidaymaker. In this comprehensive guide, you’ll discover everything Cap d’Agde has to offer, from the best times to visit to the most beautiful beaches and cultural highlights.
The climate in Cap d’Agde is typically Mediterranean, with hot summers and mild winters. The best time to visit is between June and September, when the weather is ideal for beach visits and outdoor activities. The average temperatures in the summer months are between 23°C and 28°C, while the water temperatures reach a pleasant 22°C to 25°C. In winter, the average temperatures are between 10°C and 15°C, which makes for mild and pleasant weather, ideal for sightseeing and leisurely walks along the coast.
Climate table
Spring (March – May): Average temperature 13°C – 20°C
Summer (June – August): Average temperature 23°C – 28°C
Autumn (September – November): Average temperature 18°C – 25°C
Winter (December – February): Average temperature 10°C – 15°C
Beaches of Cap d’Agde
Cap d’Agde is known for its variety of beaches, ranging from family-friendly sandy beaches to quiet coves. The most famous beach is the Plage Richelieu, a vast sandy beach perfect for sunbathing and water sports. Plage Rochelongue is ideal for families, as it slopes gently and is therefore safe for children. Nature lovers will appreciate the Plage de la Grande Conque, an impressive bay surrounded by cliffs and crystal clear waters.
On the coast of Agde, there are eleven supervised beaches between Cap d’Agde and La Tamarissière. The beaches of La Tamarissière, Le Grau d’Agde, Saint-Vincent, Baie de l’Amitié, Rochelongue, Richelieu, La Plagette, La Grande Conque, Le Môle, La Roquille and the nudist beach are all located in a tourist area of 14 kilometres that offers something for all tastes.
Nature and outdoor activities
Small harbour of Cap d’Agde, Image: Picturereflex / shutterstock
In addition to the beaches, Cap d’Agde offers a breathtaking natural setting that invites you to explore. The Parc Naturel Régional du Haut-Languedoc is a must-see for hikers and nature lovers. Here you will find scenic hiking trails that lead through unspoiled landscapes and charming villages. Water sports enthusiasts will also get their money’s worth: sailing, windsurfing and diving are popular activities in the waters around Cap d’Agde.
Cultural highlights and sights
Cap d’Agde is not only a beach paradise, but also rich in culture and history. A visit to the historic old town of Agde, which is only a few kilometres away, is an absolute must. Admire the medieval architecture and visit the impressive Saint-Étienne d’Agde Cathedral. For art lovers, the Musée Agathois is a fantastic place to learn more about local history and culture.
Destinations
With its 3100 berths, the Cap d’Agde marina with its 3100 berths not only attracts seafarers, but is the ideal place to browse the numerous boutiques in a water-sports environment and later relax in the bars and restaurants with a drink or ice cream.
The volcanic cliffs are a popular destination all year round. They were created by volcanic eruptions and from the top of the cliffs there is a fantastic view of Cap d’Agde, the coast and the sea.
A city of art and history, Pézenas has an exceptional heritage. The city exudes the typical Mediterranean charm through its historic buildings and was the long-time residence of the famous French artist Molière. The city celebrates the memory of Molière’s legacy throughout the year with theatre performances and symposia.
The Canal du Midi is a waterway that connects the city of Toulouse to the Mediterranean Sea and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The construction period was 14 years. With its many aqueducts, dams, locks and bridges, the canal is a masterpiece of architecture and can be explored on a tour, a bike ride or a walk.
A visit to the nature reserves of Le Bagnas and Grande Maïre gives nature lovers the opportunity to learn more about the flora and fauna of the region and to take part in organised nature observations and excursions.
An architectural highlight from the Middle Ages are the towns of Caux, Saint-Pons de Mauchiens and Nézignan l’Evêque, which were built as a round village. In this construction method, the buildings were built in a circle around a protective structure, usually a castle. Such a bulwark served the purpose of stopping the approaching enemy.
The region around Cap d’Agde has another attraction in store with the Saint-Etienne Cathedral. It was originally built in 872 as a Carolingian church and expanded in 1173 with embrasures and a battlement, among other things. The cathedral has a 35-metre-high tower, is made of basalt stone and contains some valuable pieces inside. Examples include the former sacristy of the canons, the baroque organs made of polychrome wood and the painting portraying the stoning of St. Stephen.
Along the region’s wine route are the wineries of numerous winegrowers, who make the tradition of wines come alive. A hike through the vineyards offers the opportunity to learn more about the craft of winemaking, visit a wine cellar and attend a wine tasting or two. Wine lovers will get their money’s worth here.
Gastronomy in Cap d’Agde
The gastronomy in Cap d’Agde is characterized by fresh seafood and regional specialties. Enjoy dinner at one of the many beachfront restaurants, where you can enjoy fresh fish and seafood right by the sea. You can also taste the local wines grown in the surrounding Languedoc vineyards.
Accommodation and transport connections
In Cap d’Agde there is a wide variety of accommodation, from luxury hotels to cozy apartments. The place is easily accessible by car and is close to larger cities such as Montpellier and Béziers. The local Béziers Cap d’Agde airport also offers good connections for international travellers.
Arrival from Germany
From Germany, you can fly from Frankfurt, Dusseldorf or Stuttgart to Montpellier or Béziers in France and from there take a taxi or rental car to Cap d’Agde. From Montpellier, the journey time is one hour, from Béziers only 25 minutes.
Cap d’Agde can be reached by train from Germany. Since March 2012, a railway line has been in operation in France, which ensures shorter travel times. Numerous trains are used to travel from Frankfurt via Mannheim and Karlsruhe to Marseille . Three trains will be used between Marseille and Montpellier. From Frankfurt
to Marseille the required travel time is about eight hours and from there the train station of Cap d’Agde can be reached quickly.
If you are travelling by car, it should be noted in advance that France introduced an environmental badge for various regions and cities of the country a few years ago. This should be ordered directly from the French authorities before the start of the trip. It costs about four euros and will be sent by post. A possible route for arriving by car is the A35 at Lauterbourgh to Mulhouse, then take the A36 to Beaune and later change to the A6 to Lyon and the A7 to Orange. At orange, turn onto the A9 towards Spain and exit the motorway at Bessan to get to Cap d’Agde. France charges tolls for the use of motorways.
Result:
Cap d’Agde is a versatile destination that combines culture, nature and relaxation in a unique way. Whether you’re looking for a beach holiday, cultural discoveries or culinary experiences, Cap d’Agde has something for everyone. Plan your next holiday in this charming town on the French Mediterranean coast and experience unforgettable moments
Hiking not only brings health benefits, but also the opportunity to experience the beauty of nature directly. Hiking and pilgrimage trails in particular offer an escape from everyday life and make it possible to let the mind come to rest. Even in the depths of the Middle Ages, Rheinhessen was a stopover for adventurous pilgrims on their way to Santiago de Compostela. Today there are several Camino de Santiago routes that run through an enchanting nature with rolling hills and vineyards. The region is known for its excellent white wines, especially the Rheinhessen Riesling. The Rhine-Hessian Ways of St. James extend over about 200 kilometers and offer varied routes through this beautiful area. On the hiking tours, you can walk along idyllically situated rivers such as the Rhine or Selz and pass picturesque villages.
Below we present a selection of the most beautiful Ways of St. James in Rheinhessen:
The Worms-Metz monastery route is a historic trade route of the Celts and Romans, lined with monasteries and churches. It takes visitors on an exciting journey through ancient trade routes and religious sites. With its historical highlights and scenic beauty, it is a worthwhile adventure for hikers and history buffs. One can easily find the trail as it is marked with yellow arrows and the European shell. There are two variants: the northern span and the southern span.
Long route Nordspange (intermediate route):
The northern span consists of a total of four sections. The first section stretches over about 21 km from Worms to Harxheim im Zellertal. The starting point is the south portal of the cathedral. There are some highlights to discover on this route, including the Luther monument, the bird trail in Monsheim and the pilgrimage church of Saint Philip in Zell.
The second section leads about 21 km from Harxheim to Steinbach am Donnersberg. On the way, you will pass the oldest sacred building in the Palatinate in Bubenheim and the former Münsterdreisen monastery. Particularly interesting is also the youth hostel with the adjacent Celtic village, where you can gain insights into old Celtic settlements.
The third stage leads about 20 km from Steinbach to Otterberg. The highlights of this route include the mining village of Irmsbach, the Kaiserstraße in Alsenbrück as well as the Rochus Chapel in Schallodenbach and the former cistern church in Otterberg.
The longest section is the fourth part from Otterberg to Landstuhl with a length of 32 km. Above the town of Landstuhl towers the impressive Nanstein Castle as the absolute highlight of this route. Also worth a visit is the town church, built between 1862 and 1863. The larger route of the northern span finally ends in Landstuhl, where it meets the northern route of the Palatinate Way of St. James, which continues to France .
Short route Südspange (moderately difficult route):
The smaller route of about 79 km leads from Worms via Harxheim, Eiswoog, Kaiserslautern to Gelterswoog. We start at the south portal of the cathedral in Worms, one of the most important Romanesque churches in Germany , and walk towards the Pfrimm, a tributary of the Rhine. The path leads along the course of the stream to the Zell panorama trail and then on to the vineyards to Harxheim. On the way, it is possible to walk through the centre of Monsheim or walk past it.
Passing the former Ramosa Monastery, a cistern monastery from the 12th century, we reach the picturesque Eiswoog reservoir, where you can hike along a stream, the Alsenz spring. Finally, we turn off on the route in the direction of Kaiserslautern. One of the last highlights before reaching the destination is the Rochus Chapel from the 15th century. As soon as you reach the Gelterswoog reservoir, which was built in the 18th century, you meet the northern route from Speyer to Hornbach.
From Zell to Standenbühl: An adventurous pilgrimage
The Jakobs-Pilgerweg from Zell to Standenbühl is a varied route that offers numerous historical and cultural attractions. The section between Zell and Standenbühl stretches for about 22 kilometres and is part of the monastery route from Worms to Metz. It begins in the pilgrimage church of St. Philip in Zell, a Romanesque basilica from the 12th century.
From there it leads through Harxheim, where you can visit the oldest religious building in the Palatinate, the village church of St. Peter from 1060 in Bubenheim, to Steinbach am Donnersberg, where you can marvel at the Celtic village and the Celtic garden on the highest mountain in the Palatinate. Then continue to Otterberg, with a stop at the 13th-century Cistercian church, which is one of the largest Gothic churches in Rhineland-Palatinate. This eventful stage ends in Standenbühl.
From Steinbach to Wartenberg-Rohrbach: A path full of surprises
Hiking in the wine-growing region of Rheinhessen, Image: A. Emson / shutterstock
The Way of St. James from Steinbach am Donnersberg to Wartenberg-Rohrbach is also part of the Worms-Metz Monastery Route, which connects Rhenish Hesse, Palatinate, Saarland and Lorraine. On this 14 km long and easy route, hikers pass some interesting places. For example, at the Hahnweilerhof in Börrstadt, which belongs to the local municipality of Börrstadt. In Imsbach, it is worth taking a detour to the Mining Museum to see exciting exhibits. Then it continues through the Winnweiler district of Alsenbrück and finally to Lohnsfeld to Rohrbach.
Here you can experience the ups and downs of the Palatinate Forest, the extensive and fertile landscape of the Zeller Valley, the peaceful silence of the Eiswoog and the rich heritage of the historic villages and churches to the fullest. The landscape along this route is characterized by a mixture of forests, meadows, fields, vineyards, streams and lakes. Here there are numerous opportunities to observe the flora and fauna as well as to relax the soul.
Our book tip: Ways of St. James Rheinhessen – Hiking on historic pilgrimage paths
If you would like to learn more about the hiking trails in Germany’s largest wine-growing region, we recommend the travel guide “Jakobswege Rheinhessen” by Frank Hamm, published by Peter Meyer Verlag (ISBN 978-3-89859-336-6).
The book offers hiking information for 17 tours: 8 comfortable stages of the Way of St. James from Mainz via Bingen to Worms, 2 alternative routes near Wörrstadt and 7 circular routes as local loops. In addition, the reader receives culinary recommendations, accommodation options, precise maps with GPX data and information on the pilgrim stamp stations.
My book “Ways of St. James Rheinhessen” is a tribute to my homeland and its cultural history and diversity. In addition to detailed tour descriptions and tips, I give an overview of the development of the region from millions of years ago to the present day. In short essays, the reader learns background information such as the difference between Gutsschänke and Strausswirtschaft, what Heidenturm churches are and why pilgrims did not travel by ship and what simultaneous churches are.
In the footsteps of pilgrims, I explored cities, villages, hills and valleys of Rheinhessen and learned a lot of new things about my homeland.
Frank Hamm
Content:
The Way of St. James begins in Rheinhessen on the doorstep. For those who want to make a pilgrimage to themselves, but don’t want to travel to Spain first, a new travel guide from Peter Meyer Verlag in Saulheim offers valuable knowledge and practical tips.
As early as the Middle Ages, Rheinhessen was a transit station for pilgrims with the remote destination of Santiago de Compostela. In his hiking guide, author Frank Hamm invites pilgrims and all those who want to become one to explore the local vineyard landscape with its many idyllic villages.
Here the Way of St. James connects the city triangle Mainz – Bingen – Worms. Roman excavations, castles and old village churches document the rich heritage of this ancient cultural landscape. In 17 stage and round trips, the approximately 200 kilometres of the
Rhine-Hessian Ways of St. James with photos, route maps and altitude profiles. The handily cut stages offer plenty of opportunity for inner and culinary contemplation with picturesque views.
Pilgrims and day hikers receive sufficient practical information. Accommodation, shopping and refreshment stops can be looked up in the book, as well as the arrival and departure by train and bus. The book “Ways of St. James Rheinhessen” inspires people to get to know their homeland on foot – in an environmentally friendly way and in a new way
Because of.
The sustainably produced travel guide combines handiness with extensive information and is available in bookstores for 22 euros.
Aquaparks are a worthwhile destination for the whole family. They offer fun, relaxation, adventure and a wealth of attractions. These include wave pools, whirlpools, sauna areas, lazy rivers and water slides. Fitness and wellness offers are often also available. Many bathrooms also impress with a tropical flair and a picturesque scenic location. There are also some aqua parks with a hotel – so it’s worth a slightly longer journey.
The ten best aquaparks in Germany are presented below.
The Tropical Islands Resort in Krausnick, Brandenburg, is designed as a tropical holiday world. It offers a wealth of water attractions for young and old. The pool is equipped with numerous slides and pools. There are also spa offers, various saunas and a children’s area. For exotic holiday fun with the whole family, the Tropical Islands Resort Krausnick is recommended.
Wonnemar Wismar (Mecklenburg-Vorpommern)
The Wonnemar is one of the largest aqua parks in northern Germany. On around 15,000 square metres, visitors can choose between various water attractions and slides. This also includes the 120-metre-long giant slide and a looping slide. A real highlight is the wave pool, which has one of the largest wave machines in Europe. For the little visitors there is a children’s paradise and an indoor play paradise. In addition, the Wonnemar in Wismar has a large sauna area with nine different steam baths and saunas. Cafés and restaurants are also integrated into the aquapark.
Therme Erding (Bavaria)
If you are in the mood for a varied thermal bath, you will be interested in the Therme Erding. There is a huge sauna area as well as numerous slides and pools. In the form of a children’s zone, a water playground and a wave pool, there are also attractions for children and families.
Black Forest bathing paradise in Titisee-Neustadt (Baden-Württemberg)
The bathing paradise in Titisee-Neustadt convinces with an idyllic location in the middle of the Black Forest. Visitors can take advantage of a variety of attractions between real palm trees. There is a spa area and a sauna world with 12 themed steam baths and saunas as well as Caribbean resting places. In addition, the Black Forest bathing paradise offers numerous pools and pool bars. There are also slides and water games for young and old.
Spreewelten in Lübbenau (Brandenburg)
The Spreewelten adventure pool is embedded in the beautiful landscape of the Spreewald. It offers a variety of attractions. These include a wave pool, several slides and a sauna area. In addition, there are several children’s areas with special pools and water attractions. A special feature of the Spreewelten is a programmable slide. This aqua park offers bathing fun for the whole family.
Rulantica Rust (Baden-Württemberg)
The Rulantica water park in Rust is part of Europa-Park. Visitors can explore various water worlds as well as use a wave pool, a wild water ride and a lazy river. There are also several slides, among which the tire slide is the most spectacular with its light and sound effects. The Rulantica Aquapark also has a children’s area with water games, paddling pool and small slides. Relaxation areas and saunas are available for adults.
AquaMagis in Plettenberg (North Rhine-Westphalia)
In Plettenberg, AquaMagis opens the gates to a unique water adventure world. There are slides, lazy rivers and wave pools available. The Black Hole slide, which features tunnels and light effects, is particularly popular. In a special area for children, there are mini slides and water games. In addition, visitors benefit from a wide range of solariums, steam baths and saunas. A fitness studio is also integrated into the AquaMagis.
Miramar in Weinheim (Baden-Württemberg)
At Miramar, visitors can take advantage of numerous water attractions, such as a slide, pools and hot tubs. There are also wellness offers and saunas. The highlight is the 3,000 square metre palm oasis with a sandy beach and tropical flair. There you can spend a leisurely day under palm trees.
Tropicana in Stadthagen (Lower Saxony)
As an exotic adventure pool, the Tropicana has a lot to offer for families. Water attractions include slides, wave pool, and lazy river. For children, there is an area with small slides and water games. In addition, the Tropicana is equipped with various steam baths, relaxation areas and saunas. In addition, you can book various wellness offers as well as courses in aquabiking and aqua fitness.
Sylter Welle Westerland (Schleswig-Holstein)
As a modern adventure pool, the Sylter Welle in Westerland is recommended. The pool is located directly on the beach and offers many attractions for all ages. These include a wave pool, a lazy river, a sauna area and a relaxation area with sea views. Wellness and aqua fitness courses are also offered. There is also a children’s area with special pools.
The port city of Hoi An in Vietnam looks back on an impressive history. As part of the famous Silk Road, it was once considered one of the largest and most important ports in Asia. Today it has just 75,000 inhabitants and is still considered one of the absolute insider tips for a visit to Vietnam. The city benefits not only from the still impressive harbor, but also from a mixture of cultures. Vietnamese, Japanese and Chinese can be found in large numbers in the narrow streets. This makes the city a small paradise in the middle of Vietnam.
Out and about in the old town of Hoi-An, Image: Tang Trung Kien / shutterstock
The fact that the history of Vietnam has a variety of stories to tell should be known to most visitors. However, Hoi An remains a little insider tip next to such metropolises as Ho Chi Minh City. This is mainly due to the fact that the small port city had the peak of its importance around 400 years ago. Almost every European and Asian ship has found its way through the expanded port and unloaded or unloaded goods here.
Hoi An still welcomes visitors today with an old town that can hardly be found in this form in Vietnam. Even in the conflicts of the last decades, the small town has been largely preserved and can therefore still look back on a rich architectural history, architecture and culture. The city also has a lot to offer in terms of cuisine due to the influence of the different cultures and represents restaurants and cuisines from all areas of Asia.
The narrow streets are typical of the city and offer visitors a very special sight. The paths from the harbor lead along old wooden houses, which were still built in the classical style and still provide the Hoi An with its special view today. In addition, the city is rarely full of tourists, even in the high season. Instead, the nightlife can be explored in an almost intimate way.
The most important sights in Hoi An
The old town of Hoi An has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1999 and accordingly there is a lot to discover. In addition to the original houses, it is above all the many small workshops that determine life here. Handicrafts play a major role in the city. If you don’t decide to go shopping, you can not only learn about the history of Hoi An in the city’s museum, for example, but also understand the importance of handicrafts in the city.
In addition to the folk museum, which is probably the best address if you want to learn a little more about the city, the port is of course the first address. It has grown over the years, changed again and again over the centuries and still plays an important role for the city today. Although Hoi An is no longer as important a trading and port city as it may have been 400 years ago, the port still reminds us of its former importance. In addition to the traditional traders, who are there for tourists with their goods, especially in the evening, there are also one or two stalls during the day that have interesting goods to offer.
Ceramics also play a special role in the history of handicrafts in Hoi An. There is a separate museum for this purpose, which explains the importance and history of this special art and has many interesting exhibits to offer for interested visitors. Especially in connection with the temple complex, where this art was perfected, a completely new image of this small town emerges.
Excursions and expeditions around Hoi An
In Hoi-An you can visit many traditional Vietnamese shops (here Vietnamese lanterns), Image: munduuk / shutterstock
Not only does the city itself have some interesting places to offer, but there are also many opportunities for activities in the surrounding area. The city itself has no beaches, but there are plenty of opportunities to relax and soak up Vietnam’s climate in less than 30 minutes. The temple complex My Son is another popular excursion destination, which also offers a direct insight into the special culture of Vietnam.
If you really want to discover Vietnam in this part of the country, you should not miss the opportunity to sit in one of the restaurants outside the city. There is fresh seafood and local cuisine at affordable prices. In addition, the people of Vietnam are known for their hospitality and take every opportunity to convince visitors of their country and cuisine.
Facts about Hoi-An
UNESCO World Heritage Site: Hoi An has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1999. The city is famous for its well-preserved Old Town, which reflects a unique blend of local and foreign influences, including Chinese, Japanese, and European architecture.
Historic architecture: Hoi An is home to a variety of historic buildings, including old houses, temples, assembly halls, and the famous Japanese Bridge, which was built in the early 17th century.
Lantern festivals: Hoi An is known for its monthly lantern festivals, where the old town is bathed in a sea of colorful lanterns. These nights offer a magical atmosphere and are a highlight for visitors.
Tailor-made clothing: The city is also famous for its numerous tailoring shops, where visitors can have custom-made clothing made at affordable prices.
Dining experience: The local cuisine of Hoi An is unique and offers a variety of delicious dishes. Specialties include cao lầu (a type of noodle soup), white rose (steamed shrimp dumplings), and banh mi (Vietnamese sandwich).
An Bang Beach: Close to Hoi An is An Bang Beach, one of the most beautiful beaches in Vietnam, which is great for relaxation and water sports.
Cham Cultural Heritage: Near Hoi An are the ruins of My Son, an ancient temple complex of the Cham culture, which is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Traditional crafts: Hoi An is a center for traditional crafts, including silk making, ceramics, and wood carving. Visitors can experience workshops and demonstrations of these crafts.
Ecotourism and rural excursions: The surroundings of Hoi An offer opportunities for ecotourism and rural excursions, where visitors can learn about rural life in Vietnam and participate in activities such as bicycle tours and river cruises.
Nightlife and markets: Hoi An offers a lively nightlife with numerous bars, cafes and night markets that offer a colourful and lively ambience and invite you to stroll.
The city of Negombo on the west coast of Sri Lanka is one of the most important fishing ports of the island state in Southeast Asia and a true dream destination in the middle of the Indian Ocean. Fishing here is still largely traditionally carried out with outrigger canoes. Negombo has over 120,000 inhabitants and is located about 40 kilometers north of the capital Colombo. About 20 kilometers away in Katunayake is Bandaranaike Airport, so you can reach the seaside resort in about 30 minutes by bus, taxi or three-wheeler. In the north of the old city area there are attractive hotel complexes. However, the number of tourists in Negombo is much lower than in the seaside resorts on the southern and southwestern coasts of the island. It is definitely worth staying longer in Negombo.
In the north of Negombo, luxurious, larger hotels are located very close to excellently developed beach sections. But even those seeking relaxation with a lower budget will find what they are looking for in Negombo. Because in the immediate vicinity of the city there is a cozy neighborhood with neat but inexpensive quarters. Here, around Poruthota Road and Lewis Place, friendly locals mingle with backpackers, and it’s easy to get in touch with each other. Sometimes a small market is held with exotic food stalls. You can linger comfortably and let your gaze wander over the ocean, which offers a unique spectacle, especially at sunset.
Numerous churches and cathedrals
Sri Lanka is predominantly Buddhist. However, Negombo forms a Christian enclave. In 1505, the Portuguese conquered the western coastal areas and the north of Sri Lanka. The missionary work of the locals to Christianity was particularly successful in Negombo. A large part of the population is Catholic and names like Fernando or Santos are not uncommon. Numerous churches and cathedrals characterize the cityscape. On Sundays, only a few outrigger boats, called Oruwas, will be seen on the sea. Because the caste of fishermen is largely Catholic. The few fishermen who do go fishing are Muslims and not Buddhists. The fresh fish is offered daily at the large fish market directly on the beach.
The fish market – a special spectacle
A real highlight every day: The fish market of Negombo, Image: Thomas Wyness / shutterstock
The important position as a fishing port cannot be overlooked in Negombo. The large fish market is divided into two parts. Close to the inflow to the lagoon, wide areas are used for drying fish. In the market halls, on the other hand, there is loud haggling over prices. It’s a spectacle that you have to experience. The most important fish species is the Spanish mackerel, which is called seerfish. But you also get to see many other sea creatures, from crabs and crabs to giant tuna and sharks. Fish is the staple food in Sri Lanka. Traders with bicycles bring the fresh produce to the numerous small restaurants and food stalls in Negombo and on the island.
A unique fauna and flora
When visiting the fish market, you should also take a closer look at the lagoon. Due to the flood, the freshwater lake is regularly fed with salt water. It provides an important habitat for crabs and fish, which in turn attract many birds. With luck, larger monitor lizards can also be observed near the lagoon. Colonies of the animals, which are reminiscent of dinosaurs, can also be observed on tours with small boats. At low tide, you can walk into the mangrove forests and discover numerous animals in the water and on land. Of course, on many stretches of coast you can also just enjoy the golden beaches and the crystal-clear, deep blue sea.
The Dutch canals
The beach of Negombo, Image: trabantos / shutterstock
In the middle of the In the 17th century, the Dutch took possession of the west and north of Sri Lanka. The legacy of these colonial rulers is a 120-kilometre-long canal from the capital Colombo via Negombo to Puttalam, a network of canals in Negombo and the Dutch fort. The canals are called cinnamon canals, because they were once used to transport Ceylon cinnamon, which is in demand worldwide, from the plantations to be shipped to the sea. Today, the canals are used as transport routes and tourists can sail through the waterways in small boats. Such a trip, during which you can observe the colourful, everyday hustle and bustle on the banks built up with houses and overgrown with palm trees, is tantamount to a little journey through time. Incidentally, the fact that many streets and squares have English names is due to the fact that after the Dutch, at the end of the In the 18th century, the British came as conquerors.
The center of Negombo
The center of Negombo is hardly touristy. Here you will find almost exclusively authentic shops for the local population. Around the striking clock tower in the centre there are interesting markets and numerous pretty food stalls with seating where you can eat delicious curry dishes with rice and drink delicious tea.
Live casinos are currently the fastest-growing games category, allowing you to enjoy traditional table games found in most land-based casinos around the world from the comfort of your own home.
For a truly authentic experience, these games atNomini feature a live dealer who shuffles and deals the cards in front of you, just like in a land-based casino.
The human dealer has access to a screen that displays all of the players’ bets, as well as the moves that each player makes via their own digital device (bet, double, split, etc.) – prompting the dealer to act accordingly.
So how can you play these games from anywhere? Thanks to state-of-the-art technology, a live video feed is sent to players from a land-based studio where the matches take place.
Live games are ideal for anyone who wants to enjoy the thrill of the live casino environment without the hassle that comes with it.
All bets and resulting winnings are directly linked to your Nomini account, so you can see all your actions on your account.
What’s more, all payouts are credited instantly, so you’ll never have to wait long for your winnings.
Types of Live Casino Games
Nomini offers a wide range of table games to suit all tastes.
Expect to find casino classics like roulette and blackjack, as well as many other games like Hold’em Poker, 3-card poker, baccarat, and even craps.
And there is also good news for high rollers. You no longer have to travel to Monaco to experience high-stakes action, as the Nomini offers great betting options.
Increasingly, dedicated content providers like Evolution are looking to expand their product offerings by diversifying new and unexplored areas of live casino, giving a new twist to the games category.
One of the most enticing games on offer, Football Studio, invites players to bet on the outcome of a football match by predicting which team (home or away) will win each betting round.
The start of the game could not be easier: It is a clear high-low game, in which a victory with equal odds and a draw at 11:1 is in prospect.
Evolution is also the creator of the revolutionary live game show Dream Catcher, which shook up the online gaming industry when it launched in late 2018.
Here, bets are placed on different segments around the wheel, with some containing large multiplier values.
Of course, the number of these segments is much smaller and therefore large multiplier wins do not occur as often.
While the category is constantly evolving, most live casino titles are based on the table games mentioned earlier.
The rules of live casino games and their RTP
Essentially, the rules for live casino games are identical to those you’ll find in their digital counterparts, while both variants also have the same theoretical RTP (Return to Player) values that determine the expected return that players can expect on average.
However, you need to keep in mind that the hands dealt in electronic table games are generated by a built-in RNG (Random Number Generator) to ensure true randomness, while in the live casino, the hands are shuffled by the human dealer to ensure fair results.
Esome games in this category are known to have a high RTP. For example, the classic card game Blackjack promises an RTP of over 99% – far higher than most online slots, which tend to hover around the 96% mark, and represents the best value for all casino enthusiasts.
This means that you can expect to get back at least €99 for every €100 you wager on Nomini in the long run.
As a destination for a city trip, Paderborn is considered an insider tip – for now! Because the East Westphalian metropolis is bursting with culture, art and superlatives: Weser Renaissance, graffiti stronghold, the world’s largest computer museum and Germany’s largest street art fair. Today we introduce you to what there is to see in Paderborn and at what time of year a trip to the city of just over 150,000 inhabitants is particularly worthwhile.
Graffiti on the monastery wall in Paderborn, Image: Dirk Rellecke
Katharina Mock was tired of the unsightly gray wall of her convent. The Superior General of the Sisters of Mercy of St. Vincenz von Paul zu Paderborn therefore invited graffiti artists from the region in 2018 to paint the approximately 70-metre-long monastery wall. Since then, artists have regularly been allowed to give free rein to their creativity on the wall.
The monastery wall is a symbol of the triumphal march of graffiti in Paderborn’s cityscape. In many places in the city, visitors see colorful murals – huge pictures on the facades of hospitals and companies, the university and private homes. The murals show motifs from pop culture such as Batman or Sheldon from Big Bang Theory as well as local motifs such as Paderborn Cathedral or the Three Hares Window (more on both in a moment).
To make sure you don’t miss any of the colorful works of art, we recommend that you take part in one of the weekly guided tours with a graffiti expert. If none takes place while you are on site, you can use the free multimedia graffiti tour via app, which will take you to the most beautiful murals. The special thing about the East Westphalian city is that the graffiti is particularly present in the city centre and forms an exciting contrast to the many sacred buildings.
Paderborn Cathedral and one of the largest folk festivals in Germany
Paderborn Cathedral, Image: Christoph-Steinweg
The most striking church building and roof of the city is the Romanesque-Gothic cathedral with its 93-metre-high tower. Anyone who climbs it as part of a guided tour will not only see the fourth-largest bell in Germany, which weighs over 13 tons, but also the completely mechanical movement of the tower clock.
In the cloister of the cathedral, visitors will find the aforementioned Three Rabbit Window. The motif, which originally comes from China , was carved in the 16th century and developed into one of Paderborn’s landmarks, which is taken up again and again in the city’s art and culture.
The cathedral acquired its present form as early as the 13th century. In his crypt the bones of St. John are preserved. Liborius – namesake of the large Paderborn folk festival Libori, which attracts more than 1.5 million visitors to the city every year in July. This makes the week-long festival, which is considered particularly safe, one of the ten largest folk festivals in Germany.
The Paderborn folk festival Libori attracts the masses, Image: Thorsten Hennig | www.thorsten-hennig.de
During Libori, the entire city center of Paderborn is transformed into a huge festival where there is a lot to discover. Visitors can expect a colourful hustle and bustle, which is made up of a funfair, church ceremonies and a multifaceted cultural programme: concerts, theatre and comedy will take place on all squares. The funfair mile measures 1.6 kilometers and includes about 150 exhibitors and rides on the Liboriberg. At the traditional Pottmarkt – in the past only pots and pans were sold here – visitors stroll through 140 colourful stalls from brush stalls to herb stalls.
Incidentally, the festival has its Catholic origins in the ceremonial transfer of the relics of St. Liborius from Le Mans in France to Paderborn in 836, which were received with great jubilation in the city. After the ceremonial move-in, the bones found their resting place in Paderborn Cathedral. Along the way, the oldest town twinning in the world was also created. As a result, many French guests cavort among the 1.5 million visitors and contribute to the metropolitan flair.
The shortest river in Germany leads to a castle
The historic Paderborn Town Hall, Image: City of Paderborn Matthias Groppe
A stone’s throw from the cathedral, right in the heart of the city of Paderborn, the Pader rises in two large spring niches from over 200 springs. The surrounding Pader spring area provides a green city centre and is a candidate for the European Heritage Label.
The entire course of the Pader can be explored on a short, beautiful walk, as the body of water measures only 4.6 kilometres and is therefore considered the shortest river in Germany.
The source of the Pader is located in the city of Paderborn and is an association of over 200 springs that are fed from a huge underground water supply, the Paderborn karst spring system. These springs together form the Pader River. With up to 9,000 litres of water per second, the springs of the Pader are among the strongest inner-city springs in Europe. The abundance of water is one of the reasons why Charlemagne founded an imperial palace right here in 776.
Despite its short length, the river plays an important role in the local ecology and provides habitat for various animal and plant species.
The Pader, the smallest river in Germany, Image: Helge Mundt
Historic mills and water wheels along the river bear witness to the former use of water power.
The river offers numerous recreational opportunities for locals and tourists. Along the Pader there are beautiful parks and green spaces that invite you to walk, jog and relax. The clear, cool waters of the Pader are also a popular spot for anglers.
As an example of European water culture, the Pader is currently a candidate for the European Heritage Label. “What is particularly interesting about the Pader is how it is on the one hand quite typical for the historical water use of a European medium-sized city and on the other hand represents an isolated phenomenon due to the high concentration of economic, cultural and social facilities in a very small area directly on the river,” says Prof. Dr. Michael Ströhmer, expert in environmental and climate history with a focus on “Municipal Water Regimes” from the University of Paderborn.
Neuhaus Castle
Where the Pader flows into the Lippe stands one of Paderborn’s most famous landmarks: Neuhaus Castle. The magnificent building dates back to the 14th century. It received its present, striking design with moat and four-winged complex with round corner towers in the 16th century, making it one of the most important and beautiful examples of the Weser Renaissance.
Over the summer, cultural and art events take place in the extensive castle and floodplain park. One highlight is Germany’s largest street art fair “Performance Paderborn”. At the free fair, visitors can experience street theatre, artistry and creative street art. This year, on 4. and 5 September, around 50 artists will perform in 100 performances.
The largest computer museum in the world
Between the Paderquell area and Neuhaus Castle, technology enthusiasts will find the world’s largest computer museum. In the “Heinz Nixdorf MuseumsForum“, adults and children learn interactively about the invention of the computer, its further development to the present day and the future of information technology on around 7000 square meters of exhibition space. The forum is named after the Paderborn entrepreneur Heinz Nixdorf, pioneer of computer history and one of the most influential personalities of the German economic miracle.
When should you travel to Paderborn?
Basically, Paderborn makes a nice destination for a short break all year round. In winter, the large Christmas market runs through the city centre. In spring, the extremely green city centre and the surrounding area blossom and invite you to extensive bike tours. In summer and early autumn, numerous festivals and events take place, such as Libori (July), the graffiti festival “Secret City” (August) or the street art fair “Performance Paderborn” (September). So it depends entirely on your own preferences. But a visit to the still insider tip Paderborn is always worthwhile.
A new year has begun. And this goes hand in hand with the high season of winter sports and the rush in the ski resorts. Sports enthusiasts cavort on the slopes and enjoy the cool air on their faces as they whiz down the mountain. Here’s how to best enjoy your days in a cold ski resort and what comes with a full set of ski equipment. Well prepared and thickly wrapped, the trip to a ski area is the most fun.
Not only low temperatures, which can fall far below 0 °C, are coming your way, but also strong sunlight. In addition, you do sports and sweat accordingly. So it’s important to put together an outfit that doesn’t let you freeze and also protects you from excessive sweating.
The 5 most important features of a ski outfit
“Onion Look”: Dress in layers
It is not only an advantage that you can take off layers as needed. For example, if you want to stop at a ski hut and sit inside, you can take off your ski jacket without sitting in a T-shirt. Onion-like layering is recommended for a first layer in the form of thermal underwear, which keeps you warm and is breathable at the same time. As a second layer, a material that insulates well, such as fleece, is a good choice. The outermost layer of your outfit should primarily protect against wind and weather, so it is best to wear a jacket and pants that are waterproof and made of a robust material and thus survive a fall. You can find a great selection of sportswear at Decathlon under https://www.decathlon.ch/de/.
Functionality
It’s important that your outfit is functional. This means, on the one hand, that it is adapted to the temperatures in the best possible way, and on the other hand, that it is adapted to the change of ski lift and ski slope. It is helpful if your ski jacket has a small pocket with a zipper on the sleeve, because there you can stow the ski pass and show it quickly.
Freedom of action
A lot helps a lot does not apply to ski clothing. Because the more weight you carry on your body, the more restricted you are in your movement. Skiing is a sport and requires agility. Try to keep the number of clothes small and don’t buy the dress size smaller so that it fits tighter.
Keep hands and feet warm
Right after the head, hands and feet are probably the first parts of the body that begin to freeze. So make sure to protect them from the cold. High-quality and well-fitting ski socks are essential and should have padding in the appropriate areas so as not to cause pain in the ski boots. Gloves should be waterproof and well insulated. If you tend to freeze quickly at your fingertips, it is a good idea to pull so-called inner gloves under the gloves, which offer additional thermal insulation. In addition, mittens generally keep you warm a little better. Here it depends on what you personally prefer and what you can grip with the safest way.
Borrowing instead of buying expensively
Ski equipment is expensive. Even if you don’t insist on branded clothing, you have to dig deep into your pocket for the appropriate clothing. In general, it should be emphasized that when choosing clothes, it is by no means important to buy the most expensive on the market. There are many inexpensive options, for example at Decathlon, to buy good quality ski clothing. For example, you can rent some of the ski equipment to save money and travel sustainably. The ski helmet is particularly suitable for this, as well as the outermost layer, ski pants and ski jacket if, for example, the children are still growing.
With the right sportswear, nothing stands in the way of your skiing holiday and it will keep you warm during the day on the ski slopes. Remember that the ski slope is not a fashion show and that functionality and protection from the cold are the top priorities. And if you don’t want to freeze in the evening at après-ski, you can also look around for beautiful sporty winter jackets .
If you visit the island of Sri Lanka in the Indian Ocean, you should not miss the Yala National Park. It is the oldest and most famous nature reserve on the island. Yala National Park is around 1,500 square kilometres in size and is located in the south of Sri Lanka in the province of Uva. The park has a rich tropical flora and fauna to offer. Above all, many rare mammal and bird species are represented there. Below you can find out more about Yala National Park.
Since the In the 2nd century, the area of today’s Yala National Park is inhabited by Buddhist monks. Since it was under the dominion of the Kingdom of Ruhuna, it is also known as the Ruhuna National Park. The area was placed under nature conservation as early as 1899 and declared a national park in 1938. This applies to Block 1, which is open to tourists. The park was expanded by 1973 and four more blocks, which are usually not open to the public. This also applies to the nature reserve along the coast. In the public part of the national park there are restaurants and bungalows for tourists.
The vegetation
Large parts of the national park are filled with a savannah landscape. The flat thorn bush savannah is occasionally interrupted by towering rock formations called elephant rocks. The edge of the park, on the other hand, is characterized by dense monsoon forests. They are fed with water by the Menik Ganga and Kumbukkan Oya rivers. In many places, ponds and small lakes are forming. Both rivers flow through the plain and flow into the Indian Ocean. The densely overgrown coastal strip of the park has numerous lagoons. The Kumana Mangrave Swamp also stretches along the coast. In the wake of the rainy season, numerous climbing plants and wildflowers develop there. The different tree species in the park, such as halmilla, kumbuk and palu, provide food and shelter for many wild animals.
The Wildlife
Magnificent peacock in Yala National Park, Image: Jelena Ivanovic / shutterstock
Yala National Park is home to over 130 species of birds and 30 different species of mammals. This includes a small population of around 30 leopards. In addition, herds of elephants roam the park. In the plains and forests, you can also meet sloth bears looking for termites. Many native bird species live along the coast, but in the winter months also migratory birds from Europe, the West Indies and North India. Mammals in the park include golden jackal, cervical mongoose, axis deer, sambar deer and Ceylon hat monkey.
Birds and reptiles
Yala National Park makes it possible to see rare birds and reptiles in the wild. The park is home to the swamp crocodile, the light tiger python and the Bengal monitor lizard, among others. A special experience is also the observation of colorful and diverse bird species, such as Malabar hornbill, blue peacock, colored stork, red-faced Malkoha and Baugesicht Malkoha.
Temples and Aborigines
In Yala National Park you can visit several temple ruins. Up to 12,000 Buddhist monks are said to have lived in the temples of Situlpahuwa and in adjacent rock caves. Ruined cities worth seeing are also Magulmahavihara, Thalaguluhela Akashachetiya and Mayagala. To the north is the pilgrimage city of Kataragama. Every year, around 400,000 pilgrims cross the western part of the national park on their way there.
Tips for tourists
Visitors should note that Yala National Park is closed between August and October due to the dry season. The optimal time of year to visit is between December and May. The best way to reach the park is from Tissamaharama. The Yala National Park has a well-developed network of trails of 100 kilometers to offer. The circular trails pass important feeding and watering holes. In the national park, only guided tours with a jeep are possible. Bungalows are available on the park grounds for overnight stays.
