The 51-year-old Austrian Manfred Baumann is an internationally sought-after photographer. He is best known for his portrait photographs of international stars such as Kirk Douglas, Bruce Willis, Jack Black and Evander Holyfield.
However, if you visit his official website , you will quickly notice equally impressive landscape shots.
On July 8, he packs his cameras and embarks on a photo trip through Europe in his motorhome. He will https://manfredbaumann.blog/ document this journey with certainly impressive pictures on his blog. We are pleased that he found the time for a short interview in advance.
Mr. Baumann, in a few days you will be setting off and starting your photo tour through Europe. Which countries will you visit on your tour? France, England, Ireland and Scotland in 10 weeks!
Do you aim for certain sights here or do you choose your motifs mostly spontaneously?
Only a rough outline is planned, but the advantage of a motorhome trip is that we are flexible, and love to refine the route every day anew and in detail. For the NATGEO publishing house I photograph pictures of England and Scotland, parts of which we have already traveled some time ago, now the missing places and places are added.
Is there a place that has particularly impressed you on your travels so far?
I love Australia, especially the West, but also the American national parks like Yosemite or Joshua Tree National Parks. But the world offers so much beauty that I can’t really narrow it down.
You are travelling together with your wife in a motorhome. This gives you the opportunity to act flexibly. What is the attraction of camping for you?
The freedom to have your own home with you, no matter where you are. My wife and muse Nelly always means our “snail house” like a snail that always carries your house on its back.
How does the approach to travel photography and portrait photography differ?
Well, you can’t really compare that, if you portray celebrities or models, you have to work like a director on set, understand people quickly, direct and direct them. They also act in a completely different way in terms of lighting technology and image processing. In travel photography, you try to give the moment duration. I would also describe it as less stressful.
Mr. Baumann, we wish you an exciting trip, look forward to great shots and thank you for the interview.
Shadow and light, green mosses, strong tree trunks. The rustling of the leaves from last year with every step. The dull sound of the forest floor, which gives way and gently cushions every step. The fresh scent of tree resin, which is particularly abundant in spruce trees – after all, the name spruce comes from the Indo-European “pik”, which means pitch or resin.
The babbling of a small brook that gets louder the closer you get to the water. The roar of the waterfall, which suddenly pours over you like a gush after a bend in the path. The spray that gently tingles on the skin. The bath in all the sounds, smells and sensory perceptions – that, and more, is forest bathing.
More and more people are looking for peace and regeneration. They find what they are looking for in Gastein, the health region in Salzburgerland. Here, they have dedicated themselves to relaxation and holistic health promotion. Medically accompanied spa treatments in the world’s only healing gallery or wellness in the two Gastein thermal baths. Yoga on places of power such as the Glocknerblick on the Graukogel – a viewing platform with a view as far as the Großglockner – and at the Gastein waterfall, the landmark of Bad Gastein. Or escape everyday life by forest bathing, in harmony with nature.
The oldest tree in the world is said to be 9,000 years old, or rather, its root system. Old Tjikko is the name of the spruce tree that stands in the Fulufjället National Park in Sweden . In Central Europe, the trees can live up to 600 years. In the process, the trees renew themselves again and again. New branches, leaves and roots ensure the survival of the tree. And it is exactly this energy that you soak up during the forest bath. It is a kind of outward meditation that you engage in while walking through the forest. Perception exercises help to block out unimportant thoughts and to surrender completely to the rhythm of light and shadow, to perceive nature and simply to breathe deeply. The forest is like a living counterpart. You can feel how he lives and take a deep breath yourself.
Every power place has its wellness exercise
Picture: TVB Hofgastein
In Gastein, the whole thing is “Alpine Spa Forest Bathing” – vital forest bathing in resonance with nature. A free brochure leads through two forest bathing areas. Each place has its own exercise, each place its own name and meaning. In the Wiese der Mitte, a herb forest meadow in the Angertal forest area, people are looking for their own centre. You can feel the power of the roots, hear the sounds of the forest – chirping, rustling, bubbling. The horizon becomes larger, the freedom becomes palpable, the head becomes clear and liberated. Or the go-let line – a series of tree stumps: At each tree stump, briefly tense the body, hold and let go. Exhale – breathe in and go to the next tree stump. Lightness spreads.
Particularly impressive at the Wasserfallweg forest area: the Wild Water Square directly at the waterfall. Here, the water dynamics are transferred to your own breath: Breathe in deeply and exhale in three strokes by quickly contracting the abdominal wall.
Forest as a therapy for mental cough
But the green color alone and the stay in the forest have a relaxing effect. Studies have shown that even without physical exertion, inflammatory parameters in the body decrease, blood pressure and resting heart rate are lowered, and lung capacity is expanded. In combination with the mountains, the effect on people is even more haunting. Different altitudes are habitats for different forests – from spruce forests to snow heath pine forests to larches and stone pines, each piece of forest has its own energy. And even inhaling the tree and aroma substances in the forest has positive effects, as studies by the Nippon Medical School/Tokyo or Stanford University show. Cleared bronchial tubes, a balanced immune system, memory strength, relaxation, reduction of negative feelings and balance – what more could you want from a relaxing holiday in the mountains?
Studies show that more than three-quarters of Germans feel stressed and 40% alone suffer from back pain. The good news: There is a way out for the afflicted – holidays and cures in the Gastein Health Region.
You can promise a lot, but Gastein keeps its word. The health region has an ace up its sleeve: thermal water from 18 springs, which is enriched with valuable minerals and – very importantly – also the noble gas radon. But wait! Radon is slightly radioactive, isn’t it? That’s right. However, in small quantities, such as in the Gastein Healing Gallery and under medical supervision, it can work scientifically confirmed miracles. And that’s not an exaggeration. For ankylosing spondylitis patients who have no prospect of cure, radon therapy in the Gastein Healing Gallery is currently the world’s most effective cure for pain, which is also recognized by health insurance companies in Germany and Austria. The best thing about it: After a three-week cure, the pain relief lasts an average of nine months – this has also been scientifically proven.
What is the point of Gastein health care if you are not sick? Quite simply: Holidays are there to recover, relax and leave everyday life behind. But Gastein goes one step further. Individual medical health treatments take regeneration to a higher level. Wellness, massages and cosmetic treatments in the two Gastein thermal baths are just the beginning. Radon therapy, healing gallery entrances and baths in the thermal water also activate the body’s self-healing powers. In short, this therapy stimulates the cells in the body to repair themselves.
The mild alpha radiation activates a special messenger substance that reduces inflammation and promotes the natural healing process. The result: the immune system stabilizes and inflammation is reduced. This also benefits the back, which is plagued by a lot of sitting. In the spa centre or in selected spa and health accommodations, you can undergo individually tailored treatments under medical supervision. It doesn’t have to be the large-scale cure – you can also simply try two or three treatments on vacation and feel better afterwards. This is more than wellness – this is health care in the Gastein thermal region.
Rise to a healthy lifestyle
Gasteinertal Tourismus GmbH
However, some have also been striving for a healthier lifestyle for a long time. In the chaos of everyday life and work stress, this is not so easy and again and again the inner weaker self wins over the good intentions. This is where Gastein can be the initial spark for a healthier life. It’s just much easier to motivate yourself to exercise when mountains rise up over 2,000 meters high outside the door. They are almost crying out to be climbed. This is also the case with the Mauskarspitze at 2,373 metres above sea level. After the ascent with the Schlossalmbahn, it first goes moderately across meadows into a cirque – i.e. a hollow on the mountain slope. Then follows the steep ascent over a rocky landscape, which is partly secured with ropes. At the top, the reward for the effort: a wide view of the Tüchlwand, the Hirschkarspitze, in the distance even as far as the Dachstein south face and the Hochkönig. Once you have mastered such a tour and proudly stand at the summit cross, it is easy to go up the mountains in the coming days. And if that’s a bit too far for you, you can try your hand at yoga in the Gastein Valley or walk along high-altitude trails, along valleys such as the Angertal or on promenades with sounding names. Empress Elisabeth and Kaiser Wilhelm have already been guests in Gastein and swear by the effects of Gastein’s thermal water.
Two thermal baths for all connoisseurs
Image: Felstentherme Gastein
Even the nobility knew: Relaxation is also part of a healthy lifestyle. Tired muscles recover on air bubble loungers, massage jets or in saunas and steam baths. Because the thermal water is so effective, there are two thermal baths in Gastein, the Alpentherme and the Felsentherme. While there are four theme worlds in the Alpentherme, one for families, one for relaxing, one for women only and a sauna village, the Felsentherme focuses on ambience with rocks of the Hohe Tauern and large panoramic windows. And because radon therapy only takes place under medical supervision, the noble gas is filtered out in the Gastein thermal baths. But not the valuable minerals. So everyone can dive into the soothing water kingdom without hesitation.
Healthy dishes and wellness for the palate
Picture: Gasteinertal Tourismus GmbH
Finally, a healthy dinner. In the spa centre and at the spa and health partners, you can of course also get advice on nutrition. Inspiration for rich and balanced dishes can also be found in the accommodation or on the many alpine pastures and huts. How about a fresh buttermilk on the alpine pasture? With a lot of calcium and little fat. So it’s not difficult to eat healthy. And once you have acquired a taste for it on holiday, it is also easier to stick to your good intentions in everyday life. Because you can already tell during your holiday in Gastein how good it is for you. So get out of the office chair and towards the well-deserved healthy life!
40 km long, up to an altitude of over 3,000 metres and with three themed trails as well as the adventure mountains made for a family holiday in summer: this is Gastein im Pongau in the province of Salzburg – close to the border with Germany and in the middle of the Alps. Admittedly, the hike up the highest grass mountain in Europe, the Gamskarkogel at 2,467 meters above sea level, is only suitable for sporty hikers. On the other hand, the way to the Stubnerkogel with its claw-shaped viewing platforms at an altitude of 2,200 metres and the 140-metre-long suspension bridge is child’s play – thanks to the cable car. By the way, one of the platforms bears the name Glocknerblick, because on nice days you can see as far as the highest mountain in Austria, the Großglockner at 3,798 meters.
Encouraging children to go hiking on a summer holiday is not always easy. That’s why in Gastein you don’t just go up the mountain, but explore nature, look for bears tracks or immerse yourself in the legendary world of the Hohe Tauern. On the Legend Trail, there are stories about the devil in the mill ditch or the cheeky shoemaker. Today, the shoemaker is a rock formation near the Arltörl – but in the past it is said to have been a smug shepherd who was transformed into today’s mountain peak together with his magnificent alpine pasture as punishment. Of course, you can see them from the Legend Trail!
On the Bear Trail, animal friends, bear caves and fun water games accompany the hike to the Amoseralm. On the nature discovery trail, all the curious questions of the little explorers are answered. Wood, cardinal directions, insects and climate change are explained on boards in a child-friendly way. And of course there is also space for picnics. On the three themed trails you are on the road for no more than one and a half hours – so also ideal for short legs. That’s always more exciting than building sandcastles every day.
Thermal baths for families: Wellness for parents – Family World for little pirates
Image: Alpentherme Gastein
Okay, there is plenty of fair-weather program. But what if bad weather is announced? Now Gastein’s mascot “Gasti” comes into play. The lively drop of water knows all about rain – after all, it’s in its nature. So it’s off from the cold water to the warm thermal baths. Parents relax in the Alpentherme Bad Hofgastein in the sauna village, on air bubble loungers with massage jets. Children immediately aim for the Family World. Speed slide with timekeeping, current channel and multimedia adventure dome – a cinema in the thermal water, so to speak: all this and more is waiting to be discovered. By the way, if you want to go one step further, you can take advantage of a spa treatment instead of wellness. Gastein is known worldwide for this, among other things – vapor bath, radon bath or the Gastein healing gallery are available.
Family fun in the rain: adventure arcade or horseback riding
Image: Claudia Ziegler
But Gasti has even more in store. Among other things, a 1,600 m² adventure arcade in Bad Gastein. There is enough space here for trampoline jumping, pedal go-karting, inline skating and in between relaxing with a children’s film in the fairytale castle. If you just can’t get enough of nature, go horseback riding. Ponies, Icelandic horses or the classic Haflinger also like to trot a lap in the riding hall. You wouldn’t think how exhausting such an hour on a horse can be.
That was not all …
Gold panning in the Angertal, Image: Gasteinertal Tourismus GmbH
When the sun shines again, you can go to the climbing wall with the Gasti Club or pan for gold in the Angertal – after all, Gastein has a glamorous history in mining. Or you can jump into a thermal water bathing lake. Have you already discovered the fabulous rock creatures in the mountain formations on the Schlossalm? And how about the first summit victory in the Alps? The kids will certainly be talking about this for weeks after the summer holiday. Gastein is so easy to reach, you can also take a short holiday. With all this variety of activities in the middle of nature and with child-friendly accommodation in the mountains , a bed bunker in the distance cannot keep up.
The world’s largest 360° panorama “GREAT BARRIER REEF – Coral Reef Wonderland” will still be on display in 2022.
The world’s largest 360° panorama by artist Yadegar Asisi of the famous Australian coral reef can now be experienced in southern Germany since autumn 2018. With the panorama “GREAT BARRIER REEF – Wonder World Coral Reef”, the Gasometer in Pforzheim presents another highlight after the panorama “ROME 312”, which previously attracted over 650,000 visitors. As the second work by the Berlin artist, the Panorama will be on display at least until 2022 in the listed and extensively renovated former gas storage facility in Pforzheim’s Enzauenpark.
The 35-metre-high and 110-metre-long panorama makes it possible to experience the incomparable beauty and enormous biodiversity of the coral reef northeast of Australia. The most diverse forms of the 2000-kilometre-long underwater ecosystem are shown – artistically condensed – in a giant circular painting. As if from a vantage point below sea level, the submarine world opens up in the Pacific. Asisi’s motivation was his fascination with the diversity and fragile complexity of a habitat that is imperceptible at first glance. On site, you have to go underwater and dive to get a rudimentary impression of the diversity – in the panorama, on the other hand, the perception is total. It is an experience for the whole family.
During the respective holidays, there are always a number of interesting offers – from family tours to inexpensive products in the shop and in the adjoining bistro. Info: www.gasometer-pforzheim.de
The Gasometer Pforzheim is open daily from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. – unless it is closed due to Corona requirements. Free parking is available in the private garage directly at the entrance.
The medical tourism industry has seen an increase of up to 30% in recent years. On the one hand, this is due to the fact that flying has become cheaper and easier. In addition, governments and the health care system have adapted to foreign patients. Similar to the package holiday, there are complete packages with visas, transport, advice, translators and everything that goes with it. The biggest advantages, however, are certainly that medical treatments abroad can save you a lot of money and you can also experience a few relaxing days. Why not have the dental treatment done in Turkey and then relax on the beach?
If you have to have a medical procedure or want to take advantage of lower prices for cosmetic treatments, you can combine this with a relaxing holiday. Often this health holiday is still cheaper than the treatment in this country. There are several reasons why people choose medical tourism. A distinction must be made here as to whether it is a purely cosmetic procedure or preventive measures (health tourism) or whether the treatment is necessary from a medical point of view (medical tourism). In the latter case, Europeans benefit from the fact that necessary treatments in the Union are now also covered by the domestic health insurance funds. In many countries, this no longer even requires supplementary insurance.
Why can it be worthwhile to cross the border?
Even in primeval times, people have taken long distances for their healing. The Kneipp spa baths are probably one of the oldest and best-known examples of medical tourism. At that time, too, people went to the “healing sea air” or to the mountains. At that time, it was primarily the city dwellers who hoped for the desired healing from the untouched nature and treatments in such surroundings. Today, however, the field of medical tourism extends around the entire planet. Just to visit the dentist in Turkey and then a short vacation on the Mediterranean coast. For more and more people, this is nothing absurd, but quite normal. There are a wide variety of reasons for treatment abroad.
Relaxing on the beach after surgery, Image: Denis Belitsky / shutterstock
At the top of the list, of course, are the cost factor and relaxation far away from the hustle and bustle at home. Particularly traditional healing methods are often only available in the home country. Ayurveda in India, the Chinese art of healing or the Wadden Sea. So if you are looking for alternative therapies, you can’t avoid a trip. In addition, not all methods available to medicine are recognized or even allowed in all countries. The big keyword here is fertility treatment. Here, for example, the standards in Germany are different from those in the Scandinavian countries. The same applies to abortions. These are not legal everywhere in the EU. And then, of course, there is the beauty holiday.
“The vacation has made you 10 years younger!”
For many foreigners, Germany is an attractive destination for medical interventions. Thanks to its high standards and very good specialists, it is popular with health tourists (especially from the Gulf States and the USA). In a Europe-wide comparison, Germany is one of the most expensive countries alongside Austria and Switzerland. This also applies to cosmetic treatments and preventive measures. Many of these applications are not covered by the German health care system and stars also travel abroad for their hair transplants, for example. At the top of the list for cosmetic procedures are Turkey, Spain, Poland and the Czech Republic (the cheapest in Europe). The rejuvenation cure in a foreign clinic is therefore a topic today that is no longer taboo, but rather proudly posted in the holiday album.
Motivation determines the holiday destination
Which country, which clinic and which doctor are all questions that should be answered on a country-by-country basis. It’s not so different from any other holiday. If you like it exotic, you should look around in Asia. If you prefer mountains and a mild climate, you can find it in the Italian Alps or in the Ural Mountains.
In the case of medical tourism, there is also the question of the accreditation of the doctor and the institution. Social media and the Internet are available to obtain information in advance. However, thanks to the great demand, there are now consultants who have a large portfolio of clinics and doctors. They have experience and can provide advice and support. The good reputation precedes the good physician and his institution. Nevertheless, it is always advisable to do a little research of your own in the case of major procedures.
Too often you hear about the botched cosmetic surgery. The resulting damage is often not covered by the domestic health insurance and those affected are left with the costs and the correction is associated with suffering. There are organizations that accredit doctors and clinics. These standards apply worldwide and are reliable. So it’s worth taking a closer look. In addition to the cost factor and the climate, safety should always be considered during a medical trip.
Whether backpacking or all-inclusive vacation: the most exciting thing about a vacation is to immerse yourself in both the everyday life and the peculiarities of foreign cultures. But sometimes this is easier said than done, especially when you think about the language barrier that makes many things more difficult – “Lost in translation” is the keyword here.
doesn’t exactly improve this problem… But it’s actually quite simple: English lessons are now firmly anchored in school education and accordingly many people in this country are at least familiar with the language to the extent that they can communicate about it to some extent.
How fortunate is it that English is the most widely spoken language in the world – at least if you add native speakers and second language speakers together. Speaking of native speakers, there are more than 50 English-speaking countries in the world beyond the United Kingdom and America.
Language barrier? Piece of cake – English spoken here
Among the many countries where English is spoken, there are of course many exciting destinations. Here you can create an authentic holiday experience with the appropriate language skills. And for all those who don’t (anymore) quite believe in their language skills, there is still the possibility to fall back on one of the many offers that make English lessons conveniently online possible – and thus prepare you perfectly for one of the following destinations.
Great Britain
Of course, the country where the English language originated should not be missing from this list. But that’s not the only reason why a visit to England is recommended.
In addition to exciting destinations for a city trip such as London, Manchester or Liverpool, the home country of Shakespeare, the Beatles and baked beans offers a lot more. Here, for example, you can learn English in its purest form, British English. From the imposing chalk cliffs of Dover up to the picturesque natural landscapes of Scotland, there is also a lot to discover in terms of landscape.
United States
Image: shutterupeire / shutterstock
Stroll through Central Park or catch a performance on Broadway Live? A vacation in New York is on many people’s bucket lists. But even away from the “Big Apple”, the land of unlimited opportunities shows why it has more than earned its nickname. How about a road trip along the east or west coast or through the interior? A visit to colorful Las Vegas? Or get up close and personal with the natural splendor of the Grand Canyon ?
Ireland
A safe bet for a trip to Ireland is, of course, the capital Dublin, the birthplace of Oscar Wilde and the famous Guinness beer. If you prefer a road trip to classic city trips, the “Ring of Kerry”, a picturesque panoramic coastal road, is just the thing. Fans of longer hikes, on the other hand, are guaranteed to be happy in one of the country’s six national parks.
For all those who have had English lessons for a while and therefore want to refresh their language skills, a visit to Blarney Castle is almost mandatory – after all, here you will find the Stone of Fluency, which may enable a special form of English tutoring.
New Zealand
The diversity in New Zealand is limitless, Image: Leelakajonkij / shutterstock
Not only all those who have always dreamed of roaming through the Shire or the steppes of Rohan will get their money’s worth during a visit to New Zealand. Because the scenic beauty of the country, which contributed to the success of the film adaptation of the “Lord of the Rings” trilogy, quickly captivates all visitors.
With spectacular sights such as the Fiordland National Park, one of the most beautiful national parks in the world, Lake Taupo or the Franz Josef Glacier, New Zealand offers all nature lovers what their hearts desire.
Australia
Australia is currently known as a popular travel destination to explore an exciting part of the world during “Work and Travel” after school and also to further improve the language skills acquired in English lessons.
But even apart from that, Australia is definitely worth a trip with its lively metropolises such as Sydney or Melbourne, impressive national parks and world-famous sights such as Ayers Rock.
Canada
In addition to English, French is also spoken in Canada – making the country perfect for a language trip. A city trip to Montreal, Quebec or Toronto already offers a lot worth seeing. But the real magic of Canada is the beauty of its nature. In addition to famous destinations such as the Rocky Mountains or Niagara Falls, there is so much more to discover in the country’s seemingly endless wilderness – making Canada a great destination for adventurous explorers.
Learning English and discovering the world go hand in hand
The great thing about English being spoken almost all over the world is the combination of discovering new cultures and having unforgettable experiences with the opportunity to improve your language skills. Or to put it another way: if you speak English, the world is open to you!
And if the English lessons at school have been a while ago, you can simply take some English tutoring – if necessary also online, which is no longer a problem these days.
A trip to the casino metropolis of Las Vegas sounds like an absolute dream to many. The streets are lit up in colourful neon lights, and the sounds of the jackpots can be heard from the gaming benches. However, you don’t have to travel that far for the great casino fun. In Germany , too, there are numerous establishments that invite you to play and have a long tradition. If you prefer to take it easy, just stay in your own four walls and play in the online casino instead. We have taken a closer look at what the advantages and disadvantages are!
Cozy Adventure at Home
Image: insta_photos / shutterstock
When the low temperatures move over the country and the first snowflakes fall, we actually prefer to be at home. Then it gets really comfortable on the sofa. If you don’t want to take off your pyjamas all weekend long, but still want to experience a portion of thrills, the online casino is the right place for you. Here you can find the perfect mix of adventure and cosiness. Compared to some land-based casinos, there is no dress code, you don’t even have to get up from the couch. With your smartphone or laptop, you have access to a huge selection of games and never have to change tables or even go to another casino. In addition, you can enjoy the offers at any time and do not have to stick to opening hours. If you just want to relax after a stressful week at work, but still want to experience something, this is the place for you!
Wide range of games with one click
A big advantage in the online casino is that you have numerous games to choose from within a few moments. Most land-based casinos have the same machine multiple times so that several people can use their favorite slots at the same time. In the online casino, this is not necessary, because each digital game can be used by several users at the same time. This leaves more space for different games, which are of course not subject to any space restrictions in the virtual world. The slots differ not only in gameplay and the number of reels and rows, but also in design. Each machine is dedicated to a specific theme: Slots with Greek mythology, retro slots with fruits and red sevens or games inspired by films are popular. Some online casinos also offer classic table games such as blackjack, roulette or poker. Here you either compete against an AI or can be guided by a professional croupier in the live casino.
Live games provide immersion
The live games offer a very special charm, as they bring a social component to the virtual world. Instead of experiencing the casino adventure alone, you communicate with the dealer and almost feel like you’re there. The games will be streamed via live stream and transmitted to the user in real time. The croupier sits in front of a green screen on which a lively casino backdrop is superimposed, and has a regular gaming table with decks of cards, chips or a roulette wheel in front of him. The player can specify in the software which bets he wants to place and start the game. Some live games also have a chat function that can be used to send messages to the dealer. He can then simply answer via the video. Fans of live casinos really appreciate the immersive component of the games, because here the boundaries between online casino and land-based casino are blurred. To this end, new game variants are being worked on diligently. In the future, for example, there could be VR casinos that you could visit with a VR headset.
Great conditions on the net
Image: rawf8 / shutterstock
An important aspect when deciding on an online provider are the conditions for customers. These tend to be better online, but they also vary from platform to platform. Here, for example, a distinction is made between the amount of bonus offers. Most online casinos give new customers a welcome bonus, which can even be worth several hundred euros. The amount usually depends on the amount of the first deposit. However, there are also providers who distribute free spins directly after registration. This means that players can try out the gaming experience even before making their first deposit. The payout percentages of the games are also interesting. These can be set for the entire casino or differ from slot to slot. Good payout percentages start at around 95% and go up. The higher the percentage, the greater the chance of winning something. So that you don’t have to compare each provider individually, websites like Casinos.de are available and show the best online casinos in Germany at a glance. Here you can see exactly what bonus offers are waiting for customers and what advantages and disadvantages each platform has. Factors such as the seriousness of the various providers are in the first place.
Disadvantages in the online casino
Of course, there are also some arguments against playing in an online casino. If you visit the casino to enjoy a special evening with friends, you may not get your money’s worth with the virtual games. In the casino, you can start your visit with an elegant dinner, sip exquisite cocktails at the gaming table and let yourself be pampered by the service staff the entire time. The atmosphere in the most beautiful casinos in the world cannot be compared to anything else – anyone who has ever visited the Casino of Monte Carlo in Monaco or The Venetian in Las Vegas can confirm this! Especially for poker players, the digital poker tables sometimes lack that certain something. Poker is very much based on a psychological component, as you have to constantly analyze and observe your opponents while maintaining your poker face. In the online casino, this part of the game is not relevant. While this is a real relief for some players, some poker pros will miss the thrill of the regular table!
Online casinos are an excellent alternative to a visit to a German casino or a trip to a casino hotel. Of course, the experience is completely different, so you have to coordinate which offers suit you best according to your own needs. Fun is guaranteed wherever you can hear the slots ringing!
In Germany, the classic travel season falls during the summer holidays. Families sometimes plan a year in advance where the well-deserved vacation should go. They are already looking forward to their summer holidays in January. However, it happens that this has to be cancelled at short notice. Whether illness, death or accident – many events over which humans have no influence can throw a spanner in the works.
Good for those who have travel cancellation insurance, it is said in this case. However, not all travel enthusiasts have taken precautions. Nevertheless, they do not necessarily have to worry about high cancellation fees.
Cancel the trip without travel cancellation insurance – and now?
Sun, summer, beach and sea: there are many reasons to go on holiday. Just as many can ensure that the planned trip has to be cancelled before departure. Those who have travel cancellation insurance can stay relaxed. The insurance covers the cancellation costs if:
Accidents or illness prevent the start of the trip,
the death of a close relative blows up the travel plan,
unexpected unemployment makes vacation impossible.
Of course, travelers without travel cancellation insurance are also allowed to cancel their vacation. However, the question arises as to what financial hurdles they will face. If you decide to cancel immediately after booking, you do not have to worry about any costs. For all holiday bookings – whether online or in a travel agency – the two-week right of withdrawal applies.
Furthermore, there is the possibility of hoping for the goodwill of the travel provider. Accordingly, it should not be cancelled immediately. If the travel enthusiasts describe their problem by phone or e-mail, the provider ideally offers one of the two options:
Travel resale: In this case, the trip can be sold to other holidaymakers. In this case, the flight and hotel are passed on to third parties at the booking price. Less often, the prevented travelers have to accept lower prices.
Rebooking: In some cases, the tour operators agree to a rebooking. Fees may apply for these.
If travel providers or guests do not agree to either solution, the only option is cancellation. How expensive it is for the travelers depends largely on the time of the trip cancellation. The type of trip can also affect cancellation fees. The lowest costs are usually incurred for package tours. If you plan your holiday individually, you must find out independently about the amount of cancellation costs for flights and accommodation .
With most low-cost carriers, tickets expire in the event of cancellation and cannot be reused. The situation is similar with more exclusive flight providers, where the cheapest flight class has been booked. The following applies to all trips: The later the cancellation is made, the higher the costs on average.
If a trip has to be canceled, it is bad enough for the vacationers. They don’t need any additional costs, Image: S_Photo / shutterstock
Cancelling the trip without cancellation fees – when and how does it work?
Normally, travelers cannot avoid cancellation fees if they cancel a trip at short notice. Nevertheless, there are exceptional cases in which the cancellation takes place without incurring costs. The reason for the cancellation of the trip plays a role here. If you don’t feel like going on holiday, you can’t claim this as a good reason for cancellation.
For example, even if there is a short-term hindrance, there are no costs for cancelling the trip if force majeure prevents the holiday. These can include natural disasters. Likewise, the tour operator must accept the cancellation free of charge if he changes his terms and conditions at short notice. This can happen if the price of the holiday suddenly increases or if services included in advance are no longer included in the travel price.
It should be borne in mind that the cancellation policy is decided on a case-by-case basis. If there are disputes between the guest and the tour operator, a lawyer may have to be consulted. However, if “force majeure” thwarts the vacation plans, the legal situation is clear. A similar situation occurs if:
there is an imminent military conflict or war in the destination country,
the travel area is closed due to a natural disaster,
there is a threat of disease epidemics in the holiday country,
domestic political unrest or a civil war make the journey unsafe.
The threat of a terrorist attack is not officially considered “force majeure”. Even after a terrorist attack, it is impossible for many travel providers to cancel the holiday in the affected country free of charge. If there is a concrete terror warning, on the other hand, the tour operators are obliged to inform the holidaymakers about what is happening. German travellers can refer to another case: If the Foreign Office issues an official travel warning for a region or country, the trip there can be cancelled at no cost.
What should be considered when cancelling a trip at short notice?
Regardless of the reasons for cancelling or rebooking the holiday, travellers should contact their tour operator in advance to describe the situation. At best, individual regulations for the problem can be found in conversation. If no agreement is reached, the cancellation of the trip becomes a done deal. In this case, it is important to inform the travel provider again in writing of your own intention. This can be done by letter, fax or e-mail.
A receipt for the written travel cancellation should always be kept. Consequently, it is worthwhile to send letter mail as registered mail. In the event of a dispute, the receipt serves as proof of the announcement of intent to the tour operator. In an emergency, it can be legally asserted.
Flight delays aren’t just annoying because you mess up your schedule and you may have to spend several more hours in the uninviting environment of an airport. It is also often difficult to exercise one’s own passenger rights when it comes to compensation claims against the airline. You can get support in claiming your compensation from specialized providers such as AirHelp.
The European Union’s Air Passenger Rights Regulation awards passengers flight delay compensation in the event of significant delays, which can range from €250 to €600, depending on the route. The compensation claims for delays of more than three hours are divided as follows:
Short-haul flights (e.g. Mallorca) up to and including 1,500 kilometres: 250 euros in compensation
Medium-haul flight between 1,500 kilometers and 3,500 kilometers: 400 euros compensation
Long-haul flight outside the EU from 3,500 kilometers: 600 euros compensation (for a long-haul flight within the EU, maximum 400 euros compensation)
It is true that compensation claims can be asserted from a delay of three hours. A claim for compensation arises if connecting flights are missed as a result of the initial delay. If you are two hours late, you are entitled to a free supply of drinks and snacks, as well as access to free means of communication, especially e-mail and telephone. In the event of a delay of more than five hours, you have the right to withdraw from the trip with a full refund of the ticket price. If you still want to continue the journey and a flight to the desired destination is not possible until the next day, you are entitled to reimbursement of hotel costs. You can also reclaim the transfer costs to a hotel (there and back) from the airline.
The EU’s Air Passenger Rights Regulation applies not only to flights within the EU, but to all flights departing from the EU, regardless of the location of your airline. If your flight departs from outside the EU, the regulation only applies if the selected airline is based within the EU. The EU regulation also applies to flights departing from Switzerland, Norway or Iceland. Note that especially in Switzerland, the European legal situation is not necessarily adopted and judges there often rule in favor of the airlines.
If the EU Passenger Regulation does not apply, your compensation claims are often in a bad position, as comprehensive regulations such as those in the EU usually do not exist. Most airlines have developed their own regulations that regulate how to proceed in the event of significant flight delays and under what circumstances the affected traveler may be able to get money back. If your flight starts outside the EU and the airline you have chosen is based in a third country, then it is worth taking a look at the airline’s general terms and conditions.
What to consider when claiming compensation
Only about 2/3 of the flights delayed by more than three hours in the EU are entitled to compensation from the airline. Whether you can claim compensation depends on whether the airline itself is responsible for the delay. If this is not the case, e.g. in the event of unusual storms or bird strikes, there is no claim for compensation against the airline. Important: Staff strikes are also usually attributed to these “extraordinary circumstances”.
Special case: cancellation of a flight as a result of the COVID19 pandemic
If your flight has been cancelled due to national measures to contain the COVID19 pandemic, the EU Air Passenger Rights Regulation No. 261/2004 stipulates that the airline must refund the full ticket price to the customer within seven days. Reimbursement is often made in the form of vouchers. However, this form of reimbursement is only permissible with the passenger’s documented written consent. Since airlines want to retain their customers, the vouchers often have a value that is higher than the price of the original tickets. You have to weigh up whether you want to accept the voucher or ask for your money back. If you accept the voucher, you must expect that it could expire in the event of the airline’s insolvency . If you insist on a refund of the money, you may have to deal with some bureaucracy if the airline does not agree to the repayment immediately.
Although air travel conditions have now largely returned to normal, this point could become more relevant again with the emergence of new and possibly more dangerous variants of the pandemic coronavirus.
What do I need to do to claim my rights after a significant delay to my flight?
In the event of a delay caused by the airline, you have various rights at your disposal, Image: David Prado Perucha / shutterstock
If you would like to claim financial compensation in the event of a delay to your flight, you should consider a few points right from the start, the following of which will later help you to claim your legally guaranteed passenger rights.
Already at the airport, you should have the delay documented with its exact duration or the reason for the cancellation of your flight by the airport staff. Keep proof of financial expenses for drinks and snacks. It is also advisable to actively approach other passengers and ask them for their address or at least a reachable telephone number, so that you have witnesses later. This can be especially important if there is a legal dispute with the airline.
If you wish to make a claim for compensation, please send a letter by post (ideally registered mail + acknowledgement of receipt) to the airline’s branch in your country, preferably by registered mail. In the case of package tours, the claim must be addressed to the tour operator.
In this letter, list exactly at what time the flight should have taken off at which location, when and at what destination the flight should have arrived. Furthermore, you inform them of the delay with which the flight ultimately took place.
By following the tips described here, you have a good chance of being able to enforce your rights against the airline.
