The use of AI for travel is on the rise, as confirmed by data from Bluepillow. However, not all answers suggested by leading chatbots always correspond to reality. Therefore, here are some tips on what not to ask ChatGPT when planning your vacation.
The digital age has led to an increasing penetration of artificial intelligence (AI) in the travel industry, with a remarkable increase of 3105% by 2022. Data from Bluepillow, Italy’s first online search engine for vacation homes and accommodations, shows how advanced algorithms and machine learning have made trip planning more accessible, offering personalized suggestions as well as customized destinations.
Still, it’s important to keep in mind that AI can sometimes make mistakes by suggesting special or bizarre itineraries that might surprise travelers.
For example, some AIs might suggest exotic destinations that meet certain search criteria but are unusual for the average traveler. It could happen that an artificial intelligence suggests an itinerary that far exceeds the budget based on preferences for destinations and a predetermined expenditure estimate.
In fact, the AI could claim that it is possible to travel from Berlin to New York, then on to Los Angeles, Seoul, and finally back to Germany for as little as EUR 2,000 – a route that would be impossible to implement within this budget. However, it is not just a question of economic efficiency; it could also happen that artificial intelligence tells a German citizen that they can travel to the UK without a passport (which is no longer possible after Brexit, but ChatGPT has access to information dating back to September 2021). This happens for two specific reasons: the AI can make mistakes and there are generally questions that cannot be asked in the context of travel.
And it’s ChatGPT, the language model developed by OpenAI, that determines what it can’t do. Of course, it can’t directly book flights and accommodations or carry out financial transactions for us, but it does impose other unusual restrictions:
Provide physical assistance
Book time travel
Designing itineraries in space
Circumvention of legal or travel restrictions
Providing medical advice
Asking things that are impossible for humans
What happens if you ask one of these questions to an artificial intelligence? You might get an answer like this: “You could train like Flash and run so fast that you could create a time tunnel that would allow you to cross the planet instantly!”
So, to avoid paradoxical answers, it is ChatGPT itself that suggests us how to use it to plan a vacation. Some examples of effective prompts rendered by AI include:
“What places do I absolutely have to visit in a certain city or country?”;
“Can I get suggestions for sustainable and environmentally friendly travel?”
“What lesser-known but surprising destinations would you recommend to me?”
These are rather obvious questions, but they are useful for an initial travel scenario. And they don’t generate responses that you confuse with Flash.
Welcome to Zeeland! This fascinating coastal province in the Netherlands awaits you with a true wealth of natural beauty, cultural treasures and a relaxed attitude to life. Immerse yourself in the magical world of Zeeland and let yourself be inspired by its diversity.
In this article, we’ll take you on a journey to the most popular places in the region, with a special focus on the magical Domburg, which is our personal favorite.
Sunset on the beach of Domburg, Image: Andy Troy / shutterstock
Let’s start our journey through Zeeland with Domburg, a charming coastal town that seems to have come straight out of a postcard. Domburg is a place where relaxation and cultural enjoyment combine effortlessly. Its wide, golden sandy beach stretches for several kilometres along the North Sea and invites you to take long walks, relaxing sunbathing and refreshing dives. The gentle dunes that surround the town provide a picturesque backdrop and invite nature lovers to explore the rich flora and fauna.
Domburg also has a rich cultural history, dating back to the 13th century. But especially in the 19th century, Domburg became an attraction for artists and intellectuals. The special lighting atmosphere and the inspiring surroundings attracted renowned painters such as Piet Mondrian and Jan Toorop, who swung their brushes here and created works of timeless beauty. Immerse yourself in this creative atmosphere by visiting the local galleries and museums, or simply strolling through the cobbled streets in the footsteps of these great artists.
In addition, Domburg is also known for its spas and wellness offers, which are based on the health-promoting properties of seawater, algae and sea mud. Relaxation and well-being are in the foreground here, and you will quickly notice that in Domburg you can leave all the worries and stress of everyday life behind.
You can read much more about the Dutch Sylt, as Domburg is also called, on this website .
Middelburg: Historic charm and lively hustle and bustle
Now we move on to the charming capital of the province of Zeeland, Middelburg. This historic city enchants with its rich heritage and lively atmosphere in equal measure. The well-preserved 17th-century buildings, charming cobblestone streets and majestic abbey make Middelburg a true treasure of history.
A walk through the historic center leads past impressive monuments and magnificent buildings. Visit the magnificent Town Hall and admire the “Lange Jan” Tower, from which you can enjoy a breathtaking panoramic view over the city. The cosy cafés and boutiques invite you to linger and offer the perfect opportunity to observe the hustle and bustle of the city.
Middelburg is not only a place for historians, but also for art lovers. The city is home to a vibrant cultural scene with numerous galleries and craft shops. Therefore, be inspired by the creative works of local artists and discover the modern side of Zeeland in Middelburg.
Renesse: sun, beach and fun
Renesse is a lively seaside resort that is especially popular with young travellers. It’s all about sun, beach and entertainment. The wide, golden sandy beach offers plenty of space for sun worshippers and water sports fans. Whether surfing, stand-up paddling or playing beach volleyball, you can spend your free time actively here.
The nightlife in Renesse also has a lot to offer. The numerous bars, clubs and beach bars ensure a vibrant nightlife that lasts until the early hours of the morning. Dance to rousing music and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere in a cheerful company.
Zierikzee: A journey into the past
Zierikzee, a picturesque port town, takes you on a captivating journey back in time to the Middle Ages. The well-preserved medieval buildings and monuments bring the city’s rich past to life. The St. Lievens Monster Tower is an impressive landmark from which you can enjoy a breathtaking view of the surrounding area.
The winding alleys and cozy squares invite you to stroll and discover. In the inviting cafes and restaurants you can taste local delicacies while enjoying the relaxed atmosphere of Zierikzee.
Veere: Romance by the water
Veere is a romantic small town located directly on the Veerse Meer. The picturesque backdrop with the charming buildings and the idyllic marina gives Veere a unique atmosphere. Take a boat trip on the Veerse Meer or explore the city on foot and discover the hidden treasures of this magical environment.
Conclusion: Zeeland – A jewel on the North Sea
Zeeland is undoubtedly a jewel on the North Sea that impresses with its diversity and beauty. From the picturesque beaches and dune landscapes of Domburg to the historical treasures of Middelburg, Zierikzee and Veere, Zeeland offers a wealth of experiences to suit all tastes.
Whether you are looking for relaxation, water sports, cultural enjoyment or vibrant nightlife, Zeeland will delight you with its magical atmosphere and warm Dutch hospitality. Plan your trip to the enchanting coastal province today and be enchanted by the unparalleled beauty and diversity of Zeeland!
The Allgäu is a true paradise for camping enthusiasts and nature lovers. The region offers numerous campsites in idyllic locations directly on the most beautiful lakes in the Allgäu. Here are our top recommendations for an unforgettable camping holiday by the lake in the Allgäu.Camping Hopfensee: An oasis of peace directly on the lake
The Hopfensee campsite is one of the most beautiful campsites in the Allgäu. It is located directly on the shore of the idyllic Hopfensee and offers a breathtaking view of the Alps. The spacious pitches for motorhomes and tents are surrounded by trees and shrubs and offer plenty of space and privacy. The modern sanitary facilities and the beautifully equipped restaurant also leave nothing to be desired.
The Hopfensee offers a magnificent view of the mountain landscape of the Allgäu, which can be explored on numerous hiking and cycling trails. In summer, the Hopfensee is ideal for water sports enthusiasts. Sailing, surfing and stand-up paddling are possible here. Boats are also allowed on the lake and can be rented.
Alpsee Camping: Probably the most famous lake in the Allgäu
The Alpsee in the Allgäu Alps, Image: Umomos / shutterstock
The Alpsee is a beautiful, large lake that attracts many tourists in summer and offers numerous leisure opportunities. On the lively lakeside promenade there are many restaurants, cafés and ice cream parlors that cater for your physical well-being. If you would like to explore the lake on your own, you can rent boats or visit the sailing school . There are also plenty of swimming spots and a beach bar to cool off on hot summer days.
If you want to stay nearby, Alpsee Camping is an excellent choice. The campsite has five stars and is located directly on the large Alpsee in Immenstadt. Here you will find a kiosk and the Alpsee Küche restaurant, which is open from Tuesday to Saturday and has a beautiful sun terrace. There is also a pool and many wellness services, as well as the possibility to rent a private bathroom. The campsite has everything you need for a pleasant stay!
Niedersonthofener See campsite: The insider tip for peace and relaxation
The Niedersonthofener See campsite is a real insider tip for all those who are looking for peace and relaxation. The site is idyllically located directly on the lake and offers a wonderful view of the surrounding mountains. Here visitors can swim, fish or simply unwind. The pitches for motorhomes and tents are spacious and offer a lot of comfort. The modern sanitary facilities and the well-equipped kitchen also contribute to the well-being.
Lake Niedersonthofen is located not far from the Allgäu metropolis of Kempten and attracts numerous families and young people from Kempten every year. The lake has two bathing meadows from which you can easily enter the beautiful water.
Camping Grüntensee: Pure nature in a family atmosphere
The Grüntensee campsite is a small, family-run site in a fantastic location on the Grüntensee. Here you can enjoy nature to the fullest and recover from the stress of everyday life. The pitches for motorhomes and tents are simple but cosy.
The campsite has direct access to the lake, where you can go swimming, fishing or hiking. The modern sanitary facilities and the small kitchen offer everything you need for a relaxing camping holiday. There are also shops in a mini market, a kiosk right on the lake and in the summer months you can even visit the weekly market on Saturdays.
For water sports enthusiasts, there are numerous options, such as paddle, pedal boat and SUP rental. The many hiking and cycling trails ensure that you can also get your money’s worth outside the water.
Conclusion: Experience an unforgettable camping holiday by the lake in the beautiful Allgäu
If you want to visit the Allgäu as a camping enthusiast, you should definitely consider choosing a campsite by the lake. Here, nature offers you a wealth of possible activities that guarantee unforgettable experiences and memories.
The freedom of open water is irresistible. The wide, glittering lake, the sky reflected in the gentle waves – that is the dream of many. In Germany, a country rich in lakes, rivers and coasts, this dream may be within reach. The prerequisite is aBoating licensethat gives you the freedom and adventure of boating.
The possibilities offered by boating are almost unlimited. From relaxed excursions on calm lakes and rivers, to exciting sailing adventures on the open sea, to exciting water sports such as water skiing and wakeboarding. With the right driver’s license in your pocket, these doors will open for you.
There are countless bodies of water in Germany that are just waiting to be explored by you. Whether you’re planning a relaxing ride on a calm lake or looking for the challenge of the open sea, the German waterscape offers something for everyone.
“Driving a boat is more than just a sport. It’s a way of life.” – Mark Twain
A boating licence not only gives you access to these stunning landscapes, but also a whole new level of independence and freedom. A boat allows you to reach places that are otherwise inaccessible and experience your surroundings from a completely new perspective. And the best part? You are your own captain.
Different boating licenses and their differences
There are different types of boating licenses, each with different permissions and requirements. Which driver’s license is right for you depends on your personal preferences and goals.
Inland sports boat licence
The inland sports boat licence is the ideal introduction to the world of boating. It entitles you to sail boats on inland waterways and is particularly suitable for those who want to sail mainly on lakes and rivers.
Sport boat licence lake
With the lake sports boat licence, you can go further out and experience the adventures of the open sea. This license is necessary if you want to drive on coastal waters and offers you a whole new level of freedom and possibilities.
Sport Coastal Skipper’s License (SKS)
The Sport Coastal Skipper’s License (SKS) is the next level and expands your possibilities even further. With this certificate, you can sail larger boats and yachts on coastal waters and take your sailing skills to a new level.
For the true adventurers among you, there is also the sports seagoing skipper’s license (SSS) and the sports ocean-going skipper’s license (SHS). These certificates entitle you to sail on the high seas and are designed for those looking for the ultimate adventure on the open sea.
The requirements and process of obtaining a boating license in Germany
Obtaining a boating license in Germany requires some preparation and steps, but don’t worry, we will help you through the process.
Health conditions
First of all, you must be able to operate a boat safely. This usually includes a medical certificate confirming that you are physically and mentally fit for the tasks of boating.
Theoretical and practical exams
Next, you will have to pass both a theoretical and practical exam. The theoretical exam covers topics such as navigation, safety, and legal aspects, while the practical exam tests your skills at the wheel.
Cost and duration of the process
The cost and duration of the process can vary depending on the driver’s license you get and where you get it. In general, however, you should expect to pay several hundred euros and a few weeks to months.
Summary: Your roadmap to get a boating licence in Germany
Getting a boating license in Germany is an exciting step that opens new doors for you and lets you experience the freedom of the water in a whole new way. It’s a process that requires dedication and dedication, but the reward is incomparable.
From planning your trips on calm inland waters to navigating the challenges of the open sea, a boating license will give you the tools to make your dreams of freedom and adventure on the water a reality.
Whether you’re a seasoned sailor looking to expand your knowledge or a beginner taking the helm for the first time, there’s a boating license to fit your needs. And with the right preparation and guidance, you can reach this important milestone on your way to your own maritime history.
In Germany, countless bodies of water are waiting to be explored by you. With a boating license, you will have the opportunity to discover these unique places, expand your skills and have unforgettable experiences on the water.
The path to obtaining a boating license may seem challenging, but it is also an exciting journey full of learning and personal development. And at the end of this journey, the priceless feeling of freedom that only boating can offer awaits.
In conclusion, a boating license is more than just a piece of paper. It is your ticket to new adventures, unforgettable experiences and the indescribable feeling of freedom on the water. It is an adventure worth living.
Paris: the city of love, art and culture. France’s capital is noble, chic and timelessly elegant. In Paris, there is a different attraction around every corner, created for eternity: the Eiffel Tower, the Arc de Triomphe, the Champs-Élysées, Notre-Dame, Montmartre with the Sacré Cœur and, of course, the Louvre. But the queen among the capitals has more to offer than classic sightseeing.
The street art scene has not only gained acceptance, but also has a great influence on the current art scene. The first work of art in public, urban space that is considered a signpost for street art is the mural called “Periskopisch” by Werner Nöfer at the Große Freiheit in Hamburg from 1967.
From the early 2000s onwards, the graffiti and urban art scene became an official street art movement, which has now conquered all metropolises of the world and has little to do with what is still associated with graffiti in a rather negative way today.
Street art in Paris
As early as the 80s, the first street artists settled in Paris and spread their art in urban space. A specialty of urban art in France is the so-called “le pochoir”, i.e. the use of a stencil by means of which the art is sprayed onto the walls. On the other hand, there is the freehand spraying of the pictures. The best-known representative of this stencil technique today is Banksy.
Street art was then a way for the masses to express themselves artistically and has become so important for contemporary Paris that street art is even commissioned by the government.
You can discover street art in Paris in the following places:
The stronghold of street art: the 13th arrondissement
To improve the image of “le 13e”, the district mayor Jérome Coumet relied on street art. Today, the neighborhood is considered hip and trendy, and many people come here to see the murals, strencils, and tags of the various artists. The topics that are dealt with are sometimes socially critical and provocative, sometimes artistically valuable, but always full of passion.
In addition to the mayor, it is above all the Parisian art dealer and cultural entrepreneur Mehdi Ben Cheikh who promotes street art and urban art in Paris. He founded the Itinerrance gallery, which specialises in these art forms, and has been instrumental in Shepard Fairey’s aka Obey’s COP21 sphere. The artist hung the 2.3-ton sphere with a diameter of 8 meters between the first and second floors of the Eiffel Tower during the climate conference in 2015. It was printed with a mandala of floral patterns and the purpose of his installation was clear: respect the environment and protect nature.
A mix of old and new: Butte aux Cailles
In the Butte aux Cailles district in the 13th arrondissement, you can now find a colorful mix of works of art from the 80s to current artists. Not all of them are directly visible. The street art scene is established today, but many early artists still came from graffiti or the punk scene and therefore preferred to spray hidden.
One of the most important artists of the Butte aux Cailles and the 13th arrondissement is the Parisian Miss. Tic, which has also immortalized itself on numerous walls with its typical mix of image and writing in stencil style.
A whole street full of street art: Rue du Retrait
In the Rue du Retrait in the 20th arrondissement in the north of Paris, artwork is lined up next to artwork. The first facades were designed in 2013 and since then the street has been reinventing itself again and again, in an artistic sense. Often the new works appear unnoticed overnight. A visit there is therefore worthwhile even if you have already been there.
Murals from several hands: The Villette district
Mural in Paris, Image: EQRoy / shutterstock
If there is a long wall somewhere, street artists feel magically attracted to it – as with the Berlin Wall. In Paris, it is a long wall in the Rue de l’Ourcq in the 19th arrondissement, to which a wide variety of artists have breathed a colorful life. In the Rue Aubervilliers you can marvel at the longest mural with a length of 493 meters. Opposite the Parc de la Villette, around 30 artists let off steam in the district around the 27th block.
Street art in the center
Even though the street art movement has become more established in the outer districts and among the socially disadvantaged classes, there are also numerous works of art in the center of Paris. On Igor Stravinsky Square in the 4th arrondissement, Jef Aérosol has created a 350m² picture with stencils showing a man exhorting silence. Also in the 4th arrondissement on Rue de la Verrerie, M.Chat embellished the shutter of BHV Homme with yellow cats.
On the other side of the Seine in the 7th arrondissement lived the well-known singer Serge Gainsbourg. Since his death, his house on Rue de Verneuil has been regularly adorned with new works of art, graffiti, drawings and collages, all to pay his last respects.
Discover street art with a guide or on your own
There are many different ways to experience street art in Paris. If you are planning a trip to France’s capital, you can either book various local guides directly online, some of whom belong to the street art scene themselves. You can also book various urban art tours directly on site, where you can get background knowledge about the artists and the works of art. Or you can go in search of the most famous street art spots on your own and perhaps discover one or two insider tips. If you don’t just want to get to know the Parisian underground, but prefer to do without the metro, you can also simply take one of the well-known Paris hop-on hop-off buses . In addition to street art, you also get a bit of classic sightseeing.
Dishes and cocktails of the Sun Siyam Resorts awaken holiday feelings – even at home
What awakens more longing for vacation or provides soulful memories of it than delicious food and drink? To dream of the Maldives at home, here are the recipes for three typical Maldivian fish dishes and two cocktails to try and dream
Even if it tastes best directly in the resorts, of course. Such as the grilled fish (Fihunu Mas) or the Boashi Hikikoh, prepared by Chef Ahmed Ali on Sun Siyam Vilu Reef, or the fish curry by Chef Ashan Madusanka at Islander’s Grill, one of the 14 restaurants (and bars) on Sun Siyam Iru Fushi.
The fish used for these dishes come directly from the fishermen who live on the neighbouring islands, and are also supported by Sun Siyam Resorts as part of Sun Siyam Cares, the sustainable commitment to the people and community of the Maldives. The coconuts, the pandan leaves (the evergreen palm tree with a vanilla, nutty taste) and most of the spices used are also planted and harvested directly on the farm islands belonging to the Sun Siyam Resorts. And they are also the basic ingredients for delicious cocktail creations by sommelier and beverage manager Kusal Ashen from the “No Mistake Bar” on Sun Siyam Iru Fushi.
The traditional cuisine of the Maldives is very simple, as local resources are limited and much has to be imported. The main ingredient of many local dishes is therefore fish, as well as coconut and rice. The cuisine, like the country itself, is a melting pot of different cultures, with influences from Sri Lanka, India and Arabia in particular.
Chef Ahmed Ali, a native of Maldivian, loves the cuisine of his home country. He started cooking at the age of 12 (for his parents) and has been standing at professional stoves at various luxury resorts for almost 38 years now, and for over two years at those of the restaurants on Sun Siyam Vilu Reef. “Of course, the fresh fish taste particularly good here. But I also love the combination of our spices. For my dishes, I usually use a combination of dried chilli, garlic and rampa leaves (the local name of Pandan). And of course, my favorite dish is also a fish dish: “Kandu Kukulhu, a Maldivian tuna curry!”
On-site cooking classes
The best way to make a dish is to cook it live with a professional. Guests at Sun Siyam Iru Fushi can learn this step by step in small courses. Here, too, most of the ingredients come from the Farm Islands, which guests can also visit themselves on an excursion. The highlight of every cooking class is of course the joint enjoyment at the end. For cooking at home, you simply have to take a lot of spices with you in your luggage. Local or at least European fish can also be used for the kitchen at home, so as not to neglect the idea of sustainability.
Fihunu Mas (Maldivian grilled fish)
For 3-4 people
Ingredients
depending on the size 1-2 reef fish (sea bream is best here)
3 garlic cloves, finely chopped
100 grams dried red chilli, chopped
1 large onion, finely chopped
approx. 60 g ripe mango, cut into small cubes
2 hot chili peppers, finely chopped
1/2 tsp ground cumin
1/2 tsp black peppercorns. mortared
2 bunches curry leaves, torn
2 limes
Water, salt and pepper
Preparation
On the beach of the Hotel Sun Siyam Vilu Reef, Image: Travel Magazine Online
In a bowl, mix chili, onion, cumin, Maldivian chili, curry leaves, black pepper, garlic, mango and season with salt and pepper. Add a little water to create a marinade.
Then marinate the fish with it. Grill them on one side first, then add lemon juice to both sides and continue grilling the fish on the other side.
Of course, this looks especially beautiful if you use flowers and leaves for decoration.
Bread, rice or the Indian flatbread roti are suitable as a side dish.
Boashi Hikikoh
For approx. 3 people
Ingredients
1 boashi (banana blossom)
100 g dried tuna
1 to 3 cloves of garlic, chopped very finely
Salt
Curry Leaves
100 ml oil
4 pandan leaves, cut into fine strips about 8 cm long
8 hot red chili peppers
3 onions, cut into strips
Preparation
Cut the banana blossom into thin strips. Then place them in a large bowl and add salt. Mix the strips and salt well, then let it stand for minutes. Then add the water and let the mixture rest for another 15 minutes.
Then put everything in a sieve and let the water drain.
Heat the oil in a large pan and add the onion, curry leaves and red chilli. Fry until the onions are soft and lightly browned. Then add the banana flower strips and dried tuna and mix everything. Let everything cook over medium heat until the banana flower strips are soft.
It also looks nice if you arrange it in large banana leaves
Kandukukulhu (Maldivian fish curry)
By the way, this dish translates as: chicken curry of the sea Serves 4
Ingredients
800 g reef fish (again, sea bream or another fish with firm flesh is a good choice), cut into cubes
200 g onion, cut into thin strips
10 garlic cloves, peeled and minced
30 g green chillies, chopped
20 g curry leaves
20 g pandan
200 g tomatoes, cut into small cubes
5 pieces of cardamom
3 olives
10 g turmeric powder
200 g curry powder
10 g chili powder
400 ml water
200 ml coconut milk
3 tsp oil
Preparation:
In a pan, heat the onions and garlic for about 3-5 minutes (both should only take on color, not brown). Then add the curry leaves, the pandan leaves, the olives and the cardamom and let everything go on for another 2 minutes. Then add the tomatoes, green chilli, turmeric powder and chilli powder. Then add the water to the pan and bring everything to a boil. Once the water boils, add the fish and coconut milk to the pan, put a lid on top and let everything continue to stew over medium heat for about 7-10 minutes.
To serve, add the curry to soup plates or bowls. Rice goes best with it.
Cocktails to dream about
Kusal Ashen, sommelier, food & beverage manager, bar manager – with the opening of the “No Mistake Bar” on Sun Siyam Iru Fushi, he has created a whole new culinary experience. The bar focuses on signature cocktails inspired by Maldivian culture, some of which are sourced locally to support the resort’s sustainability practices.
The Faanooz
(White rum with cinnamon, dark rum, flambéed pineapple and celery juice, citrus fruits and banana oleo saccharum, and passion coulis)
The Faanooz (lantern) is an enticing blend of unique flavors that take the taste buds straight to tropical paradise. The base is made of white cinnamon rum, which gives the drink a warm and aromatic touch. The pineapple flambéed in dark rum and celery juice add a smoky sweetness and a refreshing touch to the drink, while the citrus and banana Oleo Saccharum bring a zesty and fruity undertone to the mix. The cocktail is elegantly served in a lantern glass that showcases its bright colors and inviting presentation. It is rounded off by a dash of Passion Coulisf for the sparkling rounding off.
The Kuhli “Mary is here” (non-alcoholic)
(Roasted tomato and pepper juice, amaretti (non-alcoholic amaretto), washed dried fish water, coconut water, Maldivian chilli, sweet and sour mix, dried coconut)
The Kulhi Mocktail is a delicious blend of unique flavors. It starts with a base of roasted tomatoes and paprika juice, which give it a rich and smoky essence. To add a touch of sweetness, amaretti, a non-alcoholic amaretto substitute, is added to the mixture. For a distinctive Maldivian touch, the water of washed dried fish, known for its savory undertones, is carefully incorporated, giving it a subtle umami flavor. To enhance the refreshing character, coconut water is added, which provides a tropical essence that perfectly complements the other ingredients. A hint of Maldivian chili brings pleasant spiciness. A garnish of dried coconuts gives the kulhi mocktail a pleasant texture and a hint of nuttiness.
Wonderful recipes, sustainable concepts with Maldivian ingredients whet the appetite for summer – which of course can also be found in the European winter in the Maldives. To learn more about Sun Siyam Resorts, visit www.sunsiyam.com or follow the resorts on Facebook, Instagram or follow the resorts on Facebook, Instagram or Twitter.
ABOUT SUN SIYAM RESORTS
Since the opening of the first resort in the Maldives (Sun Siyam Vilu Reef) in 1998, Sun Siyam Resorts’ portfolio has grown to six luxurious private islands and celebrated the opening of its newest member – Siyam World – in October 2021.
The resort collection includes one 4-star resort (Sun Siyam Olhuveli) and four 5-star resorts (Sun Siyam Iru Fushi, Sun Siyam Iru Veli, Sun Siyam Vilu Reef and Siyam World) in the Maldives, as well as a boutique beach resort on the east coast of Sri Lanka (Sun Siyam Pasikudah).
Each resort showcases its idyllic location and character through a bespoke programme of island and underwater experiences, from rotating stays by international chefs to marine adventures.
Owned and managed by Sun Siyam Group – a privately held company founded in 1990 – the resorts reflect legendary Maldivian hospitality and the group’s visionary owner and managing director, Ahmed Siyam Mohamed.
The Canary Islands are one of the absolute dream holiday destinations for many Europeans due to their scenic beauty and special geographical and political location. The archipelago, located about 100-500 kilometers west of the coast of Morocco, belongs politically to Spain, but geographically to Africa. As a result, aspects of European and African culture come together here. Especially with a view to Canarian cuisine, this is exciting for many travelers.
Today’s cuisine in the Canary Islands is marked by various historical developments. First of all, there is the mixing of aspects of the traditional cuisine of the old Canarians with the culinary culture of the Europeans who conquered the Canary Islands in the 15th century. Above all, elements of Andalusian culinary culture found their way to the Canary Islands in this way. Many aspects of Latin American cuisine culture have also found their way into the culinary delights of the Canary Islands over the years.
During the Franco regime in Spain , the Canary Islands were largely isolated internationally. Trade with the Spanish mainland was also severely restricted during this phase. As a result, Canarian cuisine developed during this time, especially with a focus on locally available food. It was not until the 1960s that the Canary Islands were gradually opened up to tourist visitors. Since then, there has been a stronger exchange again.
Culinary highlights not to be missed in the Canary Islands
Papas arrugadas con mojo
Papas arrugadas con mojo, Image: vasanty / shutterstock
The “wrinkled potatoes” are probably the most famous dish of Canarian cuisine. They are especially popular with locals and visitors to the islands as appetizers and snacks for in between. These are jacket potatoes cooked for a long time in very salty water with a delicious salt crust. Due to long cooking and the high salt content, the potatoes shrivel up in the course of preparation, which gives the dish its name. Traditionally, the papas are served with mojo picón, a spicy green or red sauce made mainly from paprika, garlic, cumin, vinegar and oil. Mojo is also used in numerous other Canarian dishes.
Barraquito
Barraquito is a sweet, alcoholic coffee drink that is particularly popular in Tenerife. But it has also become an indispensable part of the drink menus in cafés and restaurants on the other Canary Islands. The name of the Barraquito means something like “small hut” in German, which probably refers to the special appearance of the drink. The very filling drink, which is often enjoyed as a dessert, is typically made up of five layers. The base is sweet condensed milk, followed by licor, espresso and milk foam, which mixes with part of the coffee to form the fourth layer. The whole thing is topped with a second layer of milk foam. A well-made Barraquito not only tastes fantastic, but is also aesthetically a real work of art. By the way, in addition to this traditional variant, most restaurants and cafés offer a non-alcoholic barraquito, in which a non-alcoholic coffee liqueur is used.
Queso asado con mojo
These include, for example, the queso asado, a spicy, soft grilled cheese that, like the papas arrugadas, is often served as an appetizer or side dish. The semi-hard cheese is made from cow’s milk and has a mild, slightly salty taste. The crunchy texture and aroma make it a popular delicacy. The mojo sauce complements it perfectly in terms of taste.
Ropa vieja
Ropa vieja is a traditional dish of Canarian cuisine, which is also eaten in a similar form in Cuba. The name means something like “old clothes”. In fact, at first glance, the dish, which consists of slow-cooked beef and vegetables plucked into fine fibers, is somewhat reminiscent of ragged clothing. Traditionally, Ropa vieja is prepared with peppers, onions, garlic, tomatoes and, of course, spices. It is often served with rice or potatoes. The combination of tender meat and spicy sauce gives this specialty its distinctive, savory flavor.
Escaldón de gofio
Escaldón de gofio is also a traditional dish of Canarian cuisine. Gofio is a roasted cereal, corn or chickpea flour that is also used in many other Canarian dishes. To prepare Escaldón de gofio, it is mixed with hot broth. Traditionally, fish or meat broth is used, but there are also numerous restaurants that offer the dish in a vegetarian version based on vegetable broth. The resulting porridge is supplemented with any ingredients. For example, diced ham or bacon, chopped onions and garlic, vegetable cubes and, of course, various herbs are often used. Grated cheese is also very popular. Often, hot mojo sauce is added to the gofio mixture at the end.
The city of Edmonton in the western part of Canada, with a population of around 930,000, is the capital of the province of Alberta and the fifth largest city in Canada. The city, which emerged from a fort founded at the end of the 18th century, is an exciting destination for travelers for various reasons. Edmonton has enormous parks that are organically interwoven with the metropolitan infrastructure. In addition, the city is home to more than 60 museums and galleries with a wide variety of exhibition and collection focuses. As “The Festival City”, Edmonton also hosts numerous festivals every year, especially in summer, to which artists from all over the world travel.
Alberta Legislature Building, Image: Robert Szymanski / shutterstock
Even before the arrival of the Europeans, members of the First Nations lived in the flat area around the North Saskatchewan River. Around 1750, the first European settlers came from the east to reach here. In 1795, the Hudson Bay Company, a British trading company, founded Fort Edmonton as a trading base on the banks of the river. The fur trade in particular flourished, so that more settlers soon settled. However, it was not until the construction of a railway line towards the end of the In the 19th century, the small settlement began to transform into a city. During the Klondike Gold Rush, Edmonton grew faster and faster and developed into the cultural and economic center of Alberta. In the second half of the In the 20th century, Edmonton changed greatly as a result of oil discoveries in the area around the city. Economic boom and crisis phases alternated with each other.
Attractions in Edmonton
As a large city with almost a million inhabitants, Edmonton impresses at first glance above all with a number of extraordinary buildings. These include the 130-metre-high Bell Tower and the 146-metre-high Epcor Tower, which was completed in 2011. Churchill Square in the heart of Edmonton Downtown is also worth a visit. Only when exploring the city does it become apparent that Edmonton also has a large number of interesting church buildings. Some of these houses of worship, built in the early days of the city’s history, are now hidden in the shadow of the high-rise buildings. A curiosity, especially from a European perspective, is the Pedway system, which is also known from other Canadian cities. A mainly underground system of sidewalks makes it possible to cross Edmonton Downtown without having to enter the streets.
The River Valley Parks System
Bell Tower in Edmonton, Image: 2009fotofriends / shutterstock
Edmonton has enormous parks and areas in the city area. Measured by the number of inhabitants, no other major city in North America offers so much green space. Most of the parks also form a contiguous park system along the North Saskatchewan River, which divides the city in the middle. This area alone, called the River Valley Parks System, is 74 km² in size. Some of these are landscaped parks. For the most part, however, they are largely natural areas, so that lakes and gorges can be visited here in the city area. With 160 km of hiking trails, the River Valles Parks offer plenty of space for hiking trips. In addition to this interconnected system, there are numerous other parks in Edmonton, bringing the total designated area to 111 km². Several golf courses also invite you to visit in the parks. In winter, these are often converted into winter sports facilities for cross-country skiing and similar activities.
Museums and galleries
Edmonton is home to a total of 60 museums and galleries, so there is also a lot on offer for culture-loving visitors to the city. Particularly noteworthy is the Royal Alberta Museum, which deals extensively with the history of Alberta since the settlement by European immigrants. The museum attaches particular importance to dealing with the negative aspects of this history by dedicating a lot of exhibition space to the history of Canada’s indigenous peoples. The Bearclaw Gallery, which focuses on exhibiting First Nations art, is also worth a visit with this theme in mind. In changing exhibitions, both historical and contemporary works of indigenous culture are presented here. On the other hand, the Art Gallery of Alberta, which is not least architecturally unusually designed, shows works by international artists in changing exhibitions. However, the museum’s permanent exhibition focuses primarily on works by Canadian artists.
Royal Alberta Museum: This is the largest museum in Western Canada. It features exhibits on Alberta’s history and culture, as well as rotating international exhibitions.
Art Gallery of Alberta: This museum is home to over 6,000 works of art and offers a variety of exhibitions, workshops, and educational programs.
Alberta Aviation Museum: A museum dedicated to Alberta’s aviation history, with many historic aircraft and exhibits.
TELUS World of Science: Although technically a science center and not a museum, it features many interactive exhibits and IMAX movies that fascinate visitors of all ages.
Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village: This is an open-air museum that depicts the lives of Ukrainian immigrants who settled in East Central Alberta in 1899-1930.
Fort Edmonton Park: Also an open-air museum that traces the history of Edmonton from the founding of the Hudson’s Bay Company to the 1920s.
Edmonton’s Streetcar Museum: A unique attraction where visitors can explore historic streetcars and take a ride on one of the working streetcars.
Muttart Conservatory: While this isn’t a traditional museum, it’s an interesting botanical garden with four pyramids representing different biomes.
Festivals
Edmonton is often called “The Festival City” in Canada . Especially in the summer months, hardly a week goes by without a major cultural event taking place somewhere in the city. The 13-day Works, Art & Design Festival and the Edmonton International Fringe Festival, the second largest theatre festival in the world, are of international renown. Numerous international artists are invited to both events every year to present works and performances. The Edmonton International Street Performer’s Festival, which is all about street art, also invites performance artists from all over the world.
In the age of digital networking, the working landscape has changed fundamentally. Thanks to the possibility of digital roaming, it is now easier than ever for many people to work from anywhere. But how can the desire to travel be reconciled with working life? In a study by Sabine Sonnentag it was found that a long-lasting, uninterrupted workload can lead to burnout symptoms, which in turn have a negative impact on well-being and productivity. In this article, we’ll explore the importance of balancing work and wanderlust for digital nomads.
Digital nomads are usually freelancers who, thanks to the digitization of their work, can operate from any location. In the last 30 years, the number of freelancers in the field of professional services in Germany has tripled – from 5 to 1.5 million. This pace of growth has continued until 2022 and is expected to increase further. The freedom to work remotely is one of the main reasons for the digital nomads’ lifestyles.
Digital nomadism offers numerous advantages. It allows for flexible working methods and independence in terms of the place of work. It also offers the opportunity to get to know different cultures and gain new experiences. However, there are also challenges, such as managing time differences, finding a productive work environment on the go, and maintaining communication and collaboration at a distance.
The importance of being a digital nomad
As a digital nomad, you have the freedom to arrange your working hours and place of work flexibly. You can adjust your working hours so that you can live out your wanderlust without neglecting work. The flexibility allows you to find your own rhythm and combine the best of both worlds.
Choosing the right job or business model
To be successful as a digital nomad, it is important to choose the right job or business model. Jobs that allow for location-independent work are ideal for digital nomads. In addition, business models such as freelancing or online businesses are ideal for working flexibly and realizing the desire to travel.
Technological requirements for working on the go
In order to be able to work efficiently on the road, the right technological equipment is crucial. There are various devices that can make work easier, such as the Ticktime Pomodoro Timer for effective scheduling or the SunShader 2.5 for better screen readability in bright light.
Strategies for reconciling work and wanderlust
A good time management strategy is essential to successfully balance work and travel. By consciously prioritizing tasks and setting clear working hours, you can increase efficiency and plan enough time for travel and recreation.
Creating a productive work environment on the go can be challenging. It is advisable to visit oases of peace such as Coworking Spaces or quiet cafés. The presence of suitable hardware and a reliable internet connection are also important to be able to work productively.
In order to realize the desire to travel, it is advisable to consciously integrate travel into your everyday work. By planning longer stays in one place or taking so-called “bleisure” trips (combination of business and leisure), you can effectively combine work and travel.
Challenges and solutions
One of the challenges for digital nomads is to coordinate working hours with travel times. It is important to set clear boundaries and set fixed working hours in order to draw a clear line between work and leisure.
Communicating and collaborating remotely can be challenging. Digital nomads need to rely on appropriate communication tools and establish clear lines of communication to ensure smooth collaboration with colleagues and customers.
Life as a digital nomad can lead to isolation and loneliness. To combat this, it’s important to build a support network, whether it’s by connecting with other digital nomads or regularly interacting with friends and family. In addition, you should consciously look for social activities on site in order to make new contacts.
Tips and tricks for aspiring digital nomads
Thorough planning and preparation are crucial for aspiring digital nomads. This includes setting goals, choosing the right job or business model, and financial security. In addition, you should inform yourself about the cultural and legal conditions of the destination.
It is helpful to build a support network consisting of other digital nomads or like-minded people. Online communities, meetups or Coworking spaces can help to make contacts and receive support.
Success stories and inspiration
Case studies of successful digital nomads can be inspiring and provide valuable insights. They show how different people shape their lifestyle as digital nomads and are successful in balancing work and travel.
There are numerous personal experiences and ideas from digital nomads that can serve as inspiration. Exchanging ideas with other digital nomads or reading travel blogs and testimonials can help you discover new perspectives and creative approaches.
Balancing work and wanderlust as a digital nomad requires conscious planning, flexibility, and self-care. It is important to understand the benefits and challenges of digital nomadism and to develop appropriate strategies to balance the desire to travel with work.
Digital nomadism is expected to continue to gain traction as the work landscape becomes increasingly digitalized. More and more people will see the benefits of working remotely and opt for this lifestyle.
Lake Lugano is also called Lake Ceresio and is perhaps the least appreciated by Italian tourists among the large pre-Alpine lakes. It could be due to its complex and sinuous shape that it winds along the Italian-Swiss border with many unknown surprises.
Lugano, Image: Lefteris Papaulakis / shutterstock
Lake Lugano is the ideal place for those who want a relaxing holiday and a climate that is never too hot. When you camp in one of the places on the Italian coast like Porlezza, you realize that the fame of this body of water is perhaps more celebrated in northern Europe (especially by the Dutch) than in Italy. But here we also find part of our history, in the houses of Valsolda, where the famous novel by Fogazzaro “Piccolo Mondo Antico” is set. On Lake Lugano, you can dedicate yourself to canoeing or small boating and discover the thousand faces of this body of water that surprise us around every bend. We can have fun fishing, hiking or cycling. Or just enjoy the hours between lunch and dinner in the lake.
In short, a holiday that can be the essence of relaxation as a focal point for dozens of sports activities, naturalistic excursions and visits to the centers of the Lombard Prealps and the Canton of Ticino in Switzerland. At the center of all this is the lake, over 48 square kilometers of water bathed by the green of the forest and numerous centers such as Porlezza, Valsolda, Porto Ceresio and the enclave of Campione d’Italia on Italian territory. In Switzerland, the pretty center of Morcote, of course Lugano and many other centers. Porlezza, at the eastern end of Lake Lugano, is a good starting point for visits to the surrounding area. Well equipped with campsites and hotels.
From Porlezza, after about thirty kilometres driving west along the lake, you will reach Lugano, the centre opposite Porlezza. From here we go to Switzerland, especially in the canton of Ticino, where we remember, among other things, that Italian is spoken in Switzerland. The ramified shape of this lake seems to be wedged between the mountains that surround it and that overlook Monte Generoso (1700 m a.s.l.). Getting to the top is easy and not strenuous at all. Once you reach Capolago, take the cogwheel train. Choose a day with clear skies and the panorama of the lake that you will see before your eyes. This will be an experience that will be hard to forget.
A good way to get around is by boat to move comfortably. However, nautical tourism of the water also has pitfalls. Before the excursion, it is necessary to ask the local police to pay the annual tax, which applies to both Italian and Swiss waters. From Porlezza you can navigate along the Valsolda with its picturesque S.Mamete, or visit S.Margherita, an ancient village that can only be reached by a lake on the opposite side of the Gandria customs. Across the border, you can stop in Gandria, Morcote, and Lugano itself. Do not underestimate the distances, because if the maximum width of Lake Lugano is 3 kilometers, then its length is 35 kilometers.
Bosco Impero
A really beautiful place is the Bosco Impero, where you can admire the so-called Rogolone, an almost 400-year-old oak tree with a height of 25 meters and a trunk circumference of 8 meters. The initiative of this forest is commendable: to counteract hydrogeological instability, each boy plants a tree during the tree festival. But the surprising thing is that this happened at the beginning of the last century! When you say, “Lessons learned from the past…” From Porlezza you can reach it on foot in just over an hour.
Another less demanding (an hour and a half) but interesting walk is the one to the Grotte di Rescia. The path inside allows you to admire the stalactites from a natural opening in the waterfall of the Santa Giulia stream.
Lake Lugano Panorama
During a holiday on Lake Lugano, a visit to Lugano is a must, regardless of whether you are based in Italy or Switzerland. In the collective imagination, Lugano is the city of banks and the economy, and if you look around, you can only confirm this. But Lugano will surprise us with its parks with flowers in its gardens, its villas and its summit frame.
The historic center of the city is pedestrianized, the ideal place to admire the city with its Lombard buildings and its many museums.
Culinary delights on Lake Lugano
Let’s assume right away that the large presence of northern European tourism has led many restaurants to adapt the cuisine to the expectations of the northern European tourist in the beautiful country. Pizzerias, spaghetti restaurants and sea fish are more common than the crotti. The latter are caves where the constant cooling temperature allows the preservation of cheese and sausages, and which in recent decades have become real or imagined traditional restaurants. A lake surrounded by mountains develops its cuisine in these two natural environments. Freshwater fish, therefore, among which the carpione fish is very special, are fried and then marinated in vinegar, onion, bay leaf.
Or the fish in green sauce, grilled and marinated in parsley sauce, breadcrumbs with vinegar, capers, anchovies, garlic, egg yolks, olive oil (ideal rinse, agoni and char). Mixed Lake Fry sees large quantities of dreary and agoni or perch and whitefish fillets breaded with egg and fried in butter and sage. Polenta is native to the mountains and valleys, typically buckwheat, pizzoccheri, and Valtellinesi, but is widely grown in the foothills of the Alps. sausages, among which bresaola reigns supreme, and delicious fresh and seasoned cheeses.
