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Essaouira – port city in Morocco

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Souks and sunsets: Located on Morocco’s Atlantic coast, Essaouira is a mix of North Africa and the Mediterranean. Surrounded by a city wall of golden stones, bright blues and dazzling house paints mix with flowing djellabas and the smell of spices. Influences from Arabs, Africans, Romans and French merge into a unique atmosphere. Add to that 300 days of sunshine and consistently warm but not scorching hot temperatures, making Essaouira the perfect destination for a getaway. Although the town doesn’t have much to offer in terms of sights, you can simply spend a few relaxing days there, whether it’s just as a weekend getaway or as part of a longer Morocco tour. If you want to get to know the city properly, here are some really good insider tips for you:

City Walls of Essaouira, Morocco

Fishing port of Essaouira
View of the fishing port of Essaouira, Image: Balate Dorin / shutterstock

The ramparts of Essaouira are located where the medina meets the Atlantic Ocean. These city walls were built in the 1760s by a French military architect – Theodore Cornut – to protect the port from attackers. The design was inspired by the city of Saint Malo in France . If you’re a fan of old movies, you might recognize them at the beginning of the 1952 Orson Welles film Othello. The film begins with a shot of Iago hanging in a cage over the rock that was filmed here.

The fortress walls by the sea are lined with the impressive Skala, a kind of defensive bastion. At one end is the Skala du Port, which is the gateway to the fishing port. At the other end is the Skala du Ville, with 19 bronze cannons. These are lined up along the seawall. From the fortress walls you have a great view over the medina and the sea. Along the waterfront or in the vaults below, which originally served as a military camp, you’ll usually find artists and craft stalls.

Watch the traditional blue boats arrive

In the 19th century, Essaouira was the largest port in Morocco. It was known as the “Port of Timbuktu”. Goods such as gold and spices that came by caravan from black Africa to be shipped from here to Europe and America. Today, the port’s cargo is slightly smaller, as the water is not deep enough for large modern ships. But there is still a lot going on in the port. Watching the fishermen at work is one of the most popular activities in Essaouira.

Fishermen can often be seen mending their nets and shipbuilders at work on the traditional blue wooden fishing boats that are still in use today. Between 3:00 p.m. and 5:00 p.m., the fishing boats come in for the day and the fishermen auction off their catch. You can watch the haggling go back and forth. Or pick up some fish or seafood, which you can grill at the stalls on the edge of the harbour – the hordes of seagulls and stray cats will fight over the leftovers.

A round of surfing?

Essaouira has the nickname “windy city”, and that’s partly justified. But that’s not necessarily a bad thing, as the trade winds blowing into the bay keep temperatures at a bearable mid-20°C in summer, while the rest of Morocco sweats in the heat. If you don’t mind a light sprinkling of sand, then enjoy sunbathing on the beach.

However, most beachgoers opt for something more active than sunbathing. The mild, calm waters in the bay are great for windsurfing or kitesurfing, and even if you don’t try it yourself, it’s impressive to watch. You can also ride along the beach on a camel or a horse, or rent a bike and cycle along the seafront.

Let yourself be enchanted by the medina

Medina of Essaouira
Medina of Essaouira in the early morning hours, Image: Nella / shutterstock

The medina in Essaouira, formerly known as Mogador, has been added to the UNESCO World Heritage List because of its unusual mix of Moroccan and European styles. But unlike the medinas in many other Moroccan cities, walking through the medina of Essaouira isn’t like a maze, so you have a pretty good chance of not getting completely lost. The center of the medina is Place Moulay Hassan, a large square in the pedestrian street where you can grab a table in one of the cafes to people-watch.

Sunset in the souk

Essaouira’s small and fairly relaxed souks are a good place to practice your haggling skills. As well as stalls selling fresh meat, fish and heaps of aromatic spices (be sure to take home the special Ras el Hanout blends), there are also souks for handmade jewellery or tailoring. You can also shop for treasures at the flea market in La Joutia Square. Elsewhere in the medina, you can pick up gifts such as local artwork, argan oil from the cooperatives around the city, silver jewelry from the Jewish silversmiths, ornate marquetry boxes, and furniture carved from thuja wood, as well as the mysterious lotions and potions of the Berber pharmacists.

Unique music culture

Gnawa music is very popular throughout Morocco, but Essaouira is its heartland. This type of music originated in Senegal, Sudan and Ghana and was brought to Morocco by slaves. She mixes spirituality, rhythm and wild dance and increases to a hypnotic trance. There are only three instruments – krakets (iron castanets), ghimbri (a three-stringed bass) and vocals. You can hear it at the Gnawa Blues Restaurant or at the Gnaoua World Music Festival in June. In addition to Gnawa, there is also the Festival des Alizés in April for classical music or the Festival des Andalousies Atlantiques in November for Arabic and Andalusian music.

Essaouira is definitely worth a trip and not least the hospitable people make a visit to the city an experience.

Bhutan – Land of the Thunder Dragon and Luck

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A charming Buddhist kingdom in the Himalayas, that’s Bhutan! Colonialism passed this country by, because it is quite hidden between the giants China and India. Officially, Bhutan is called Druk Yul, “Land of the Thunder Dragon”. Decades ago, “gross national happiness” was declared the highest state goal. This is not only about material prosperity, but also about contentment and spiritual harmony with the world.

The head of state is the young “Dragon King” Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck. His father voluntarily limited royal power in favor of parliament. The country is slightly smaller than Switzerland, but has only about 740,000 inhabitants. Almost 80,000 people live in the capital Thimphu, all other settlements are much smaller. Here, perhaps, if you are “lucky”, you can see a traffic jam and set pieces of today’s globalized world. In many other places, however, Bhutan seems to have fallen out of time.

72 percent of the population follow the state religion, Mahayana Buddhism. This manifests itself in various forms that are close to Tibetan Buddhism. 27 percent are Hindus. They live mainly in the southern lowlands, mostly have Nepalese roots and are less highly respected.

Nature in Bhutan

Nature Bhutan
Bhutan scores with culture and beautiful nature, Image: Mathias Berlin / shutterstock

The valleys of Bhutan are nestled between the mountain giants of the Himalayas. The highest peak is called Gangkhar Puensum, located on the border with Tibet and reaches 7570 meters. All mountains higher than 6000 meters may not be climbed for religious reasons. The villages and monasteries are mostly nestled on the slopes of the Vorderhimalayan or spread out in the river valleys.

In the absolute high mountain zones of the west, arctic temperatures prevail in winter. In the south, the climate is subtropical. Heavy rainfall ensures great fertility in the valleys of central Bhutan. The country attaches great importance to the preservation of its natural resources. Subtropical jungle stretches out in the lowlands, fir forests grow in the high altitudes with magnificent flora and fauna. Large-scale deforestation as in neighbouring countries has not taken place in Bhutan.

Tigers, leopards and bears roam the wilderness and hunt goats, sheep and musk cattle. The national animal of Bhutan is also sometimes killed: The takin has horns, grows significantly larger than a sheep, but is closely related to it. Yaks graze on the slopes. Birdwatchers get their money’s worth: from the black ravens that live at high altitudes to magnificently colourfully feathered friends such as the fire-read, yellow-crested woodpecker or Nepal hornbill. Beautiful butterflies feast on the colourful flowers of orchids and rhododendrons. Frogs and other amphibian species populate the fertile river valleys. In the lowlands, the Indian rhinoceros has its refuges.

Culture in Bhutan

The monasteries

Taktshang Monastery, Bhutan
The monastery in Taktshang, Image: Khanthachai C / shutterstock

In Bhutan, monasteries enjoy not only great religious authority, but also political power. In each of the 20 districts, the dzongs, mighty monastic castles, are usually located on hills. Not only do the meditations and annual religious festivals take place here, but the administrative centers are also located in the dzongs. Only the Punakha-Dzong, which was built to defend against Tibet, stands in a valley on two rivers.

Some of the most beautiful monasteries nestle on steep mountain slopes. The Takshang Monastery in western Bhutan, north of Paro, is famous. It is called the “Tiger’s Nest” and is the destination of many Bhutan travelers. In addition to the frequently visited monasteries and villages in central Bhutan, there are many largely unknown treasures of this precious Buddhist cultural area in the east of the country.

The population

The people of Bhutan and the government attach great importance to the preservation of the country’s typical culture. This also includes the traditional costume, which varies depending on the ethnic group. People wear them not only to festivities, but also to important appointments in the capital or even in everyday life. Popular belief manifests itself in fluttering prayer flags that defy the wind all over the country. This transports the prayers printed on the flags up to the gods. Pre-Buddhist shamanistic customs have survived in popular belief. There are ghost traps made of intricately stretched threads in which demons and evil forces are supposed to get caught.

Travel to Bhutan

Overall, Bhutan has chosen to continue to follow traditions and only cautiously open up to the world. This also includes not allowing mass tourism. Tourists need a passport and a visa. They must leave a minimum daily amount in the country, which is likely to deter backpackers and the less well-heeled. In the high season, this daily rate is 250 dollars, in the low season it is still 200 dollars. However, accommodation, food and transport are already included in parts. Individual trips are more expensive, as a driver and the hotels have to be booked in advance by specialized tour operators.

So most Bhutan enthusiasts join a tour. However, this also makes it much easier to organize the trip. There are tour operators who mainly offer trekking tours into the mountains and into the great nature. Other organizers specialize in the Buddhist culture of Central Bhutan. Usually small group tours head for the capital Thimphu with its temples as well as Paro and the Takshang Monastery. Hikes lead to other traditional monasteries and dzongs. If possible, you can also attend a Tsechu, a typical monastery festival with mask dances. Specialized providers carry out trips to the less-visited east of Bhutan. Overnight stays are in traditionally designed hotels that are focused on aesthetics.

Thus, Bhutan is considered one of the most beautiful and exclusive travel destinations in Asia.

Historic coastal city of Faro – Where the facets of the Algarve unfold

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In the very south of Portugal, in the multifaceted holiday region of the Algarve, Faro awaits. The city is an important point of reference in the southern Portuguese region. When it comes to the cosmopolitan cities and metropolises of the southern European country, Lisbon and Porto top the list. But Faro is the largest city in the Algarve with about 65,000 inhabitants, and the Algarve is perhaps the most beautiful holiday region in Portugal.

Faro Airport is the gateway to the southern Portuguese region – and Faro itself is the natural first port of call to get to know the beautiful holiday scene. But far from the infrastructural importance, Faro itself has some cultural and natural highlights to offer for travelers – whether the winding old town or the nearby Parque Natural da Ria Formosa. Faro is more than just a transit point on a trip to the Algarve. Often underestimated by tourists, visitors can enjoy a wide variety of facets of the culture, nature and culinary delights of the popular region. Faro itself has a long history that dates back to ancient times. And it is worth pausing after arriving at the airport and getting to know the central city of the Algarve better.

Cultural and historical facets of the coastal city

Old Town of Faro
Out and about in the old town of Faro, Image: Filipe B. Varela / shutterstock

Once a Phoenician settlement, the early predecessor city of Ossonoba was considered an important hub for the trade in fish, oil and wine in the 1st century. Faro has retained its role as the large infrastructural and economic centre of the Algarve over the centuries to this day. Historically, the city has been shaped by a wide variety of cultures – in the meantime also by the presence of the Moors. In 1540, Faro was granted city rights for the first time, and today the historic old town in particular is a reminder of Faro’s long history. Although the size of the old town does not reach that of metropolises such as Lisbon, it still attracts visitors today with its winding streets and buildings such as the historic town hall of the Arco da Villa. Many of the buildings in the old town are bathed in classic white – with typical architecture of the region. The city is also characterized by its location not far from the lagoon, which is located in the prominent nature reserve Parque Natural da Ria Formosa. It is not only its number of inhabitants that makes Faro stand out among the cities of the Algarve.

Culinary delights and shopping in the heart of the city

A visit to Faro – especially if you are travelling to the Algarve for the first time – can also be a good way to get to know the culinary side of the southern Portuguese region in one of the restaurants. The region is known for its fresh seafood dishes such as bacalhau, fish stew from the cataplana, specialties with shrimp and squid, or the famous piri-piri chicken. As multifaceted as the Algarve region presents itself with its location by the sea and its olive, fig and orange trees, so fascinating is the cuisine, some of which can be discovered in Faro. If you want to combine a culinary tour of Faro and the Algarve with a shopping spree, you should remember Rua de Santo Antonio, which is considered a central shopping street in the city.

Cathedral, Arco da Vila, Jardim Manuel Bivar – Defining sights of Faro

Faro Cathedral
View of Faro Cathedral, Image: Robin Runck / shutterstock

Faro’s Old Town is home to many of the city’s central attractions. In addition to the town hall, this also includes the baroque church of Nossa Senhora do Carmo on the northern edge of the old town. Built between 1719 and 1807, the striking sacred building is considered one of the most impressive church buildings in the city. The church includes the historic Ossuary Capela dos Ossos (also known as the Chapel of Bones), which was built from the bones of over 1000 monks of the Carmelite Order – a macabre sight.

Equally important sacred building is Faro Cathedral, which serves as the seat of the historic Roman Catholic Diocese of Faro. Situated on a fortress hill about 80 meters above sea level, it presents itself as an architecturally outstanding building of the city, which partly incorporates Gothic architecture. The Arco da Vila is considered the gateway to the old town, a historical monument that also functions as a landmark of the city. Inaugurated in 1812, it marks the point where the medieval city gate once stood. The central square of the city is the Jardim Manuel Bivar, which is a scenic stopover when exploring the city. Here, a very special flair unfolds with historic buildings, urban greenery and the sight of the harbour.

Natural Faro

But there is another Faro far away from the urban buildings. The Atlantic beach life can be discovered at Praia de Faro, the city beach of Faro. Especially in the warm summer months, tourists and residents alike are drawn to the sunny coastal strip. The Parque Natural da Ria Formosa characterizes the natural landscapes around the city. The important wetland of the Algarve is an important ecosystem in which a wide variety of species feel at home – and a central natural reference point in the Faro region. Far away from its natural highlights, the city also offers itself as a starting point for excursions into the region. About 10 km outside Faro is the municipality of Estoi, which has a fascinating historical attraction from the 19th century in the form of the Rococo Palace of the Count of Estoi. Olhao is also an important neighboring city with its historical monuments and scenic coastal panorama. Faro thus presents itself as a multifaceted starting point to get to know the Algarve.

Innsbruck – Tyrol’s multifaceted capital

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Idyllically situated on the Inn, the Alpine metropolis of Innsbruck already inspires its guests with its enchanting silhouette, in the background of which the impressive Karwendel mountain range stretches towards the sky. The fifth largest city in Austria is known for its historical sights and at the same time the capital Tyrol presents itself as an attractive shopping metropolis and modern university city. A visit to Innsbruck is always a gain due to the wide range of cultural offerings and so the multifaceted nature of the city inspires visitors from all over the world.

Historic Innsbruck and its sights

The old town of Innsbruck is characterized by historic house facades that adorn magnificent buildings, onion domes and impressive sights. Numerous buildings in the old town were built during the reign of Emperor Maximilian I, whose tomb is also located in Innsbruck’s old town. Since Innsbruck’s old town has countless architectural highlights and buildings steeped in history, the sightsof Innsbruck mentioned here are only exemplary and it is worthwhile to walk through the city with your eyes open, because there is a lot to discover.

The Hofburg and the Hofkirche

Hofburg, Innsbruck
The Hofburg, Image: trabantos / shutterstock

One of the most magnificent buildings in the old town is the Hofburg, which was once built and inhabited by the Habsburgs. The complex, which has been converted into a castle, is now in Rococo style and can be visited in parts. The magnificent design goes back to Empress Maria Theresa, who brought the courtly Viennese Rococo, which was popular at the time, to Innsbruck in this way. Members of the imperial family continued to live in the Innsbruck Hofburg until 1918, the end of the monarchy in Austria. The ballroom, which enchants with its size and murals, is particularly worth seeing. But the Gardesaal and the Andreas Hofer Saal are also very popular with visitors, followed by the fantastically furnished salons and the imperial apartments. A special feature is the Hofkirche on the edge of the old town, because here you will find the tomb of Emperor Maximilian I, which is framed by 28 larger-than-life bronze figures.

The Helblinghaus

One of the most beautiful buildings in the city is undoubtedly the Helblinghaus in the old town. With its baroque stucco façade, the building attracts attention. Originally, the 15th-century burgher house was built in the Gothic style, but later the plasterer Anton Gigl was commissioned to make the stucco work that has survived to this day, and so the house is now adorned with lush flower tendrils, shells, fruits and putti.

The Cathedral of St. James

Rather simple from the outside, the Cathedral of St. James is one of the most interesting churches in the city. Art treasures such as the painting Mariahilf by Lucas Cranach the Elder adorn the cathedral, which probably adorned the city as early as 1181 and 1182. The first documentary mention dates back to 1270. Particularly impressive is the tomb of Maximilian III and the Solomon’s Columns. A special highlight are the ceiling frescoes by Cosmas Damian Asam.

The Golden Roof

Golden Roof
Golden Roof, Image: LaMiaFotografia / shutterstock

Known worldwide as Innsbruck’s landmark, the Golden Roof is one of the city’s tourist attractions. This is the roof of a bay window at the new courtyard, which was covered with 2,657 fire-gilded shingles. The new courtyard was built in 1420 and is now accessible as the Golden Roof Museum. If you take a closer look at the trouble, you will notice that not only the gilded shingles are a highlight, but also the reliefs on the bay window are extremely worth seeing.

Experience nature directly above the city

If you spend a few days on holiday in Innsbruck , you can not only enjoy city life to the fullest, but also the magnificent landscape of Tyrol. From Innsbruck’s old town, nature lovers can take the Nordkettenbahn up to the Hafelekar. It is the highest attraction in the city. With the right equipment, you can not only enjoy a wonderful view over the city, but also the Goethe Trail and the via ferrata. In this respect, Innsbruck is a special city, because hardly any other big city offers the opportunity to get from the hustle and bustle of the city directly to the Alpine idyll.

Cultural highlights in Innsbruck

Bergisel, Innsbruck
Bergisel – The ski jump in Innsbruck, Image: trabantos / shutterstock

The university and shopping city of Innsbruck is known for its diverse cultural scene. Numerous theatres, museums, festivals, galleries and concert stages attract visitors. The spectrum of events ranges from the dance summer to the festival weeks of early music to the traditional Christmas market. It is worth taking a look at the city’s current calendar of events before the trip in order to put together an attractive cultural programme for yourself. Recurring events include:

  • Air & Style Snowboard Contest
  • Mountain New Year’s Eve
  • New Oerlens Festival
  • Innsbruck Solstice
  • Afro Meeting
  • Innsbruck International Film Festival
  • Insbruck Mountain Christmas
  • World Music Festival
  • Tyrolean Dramatist Festival
  • Four Hills Tournament

The taste of Innsbruck

From a culinary point of view, traditional inns, cosy alpine huts and restaurants attract visitors in and around Innsbruck, some of which also offer haute cuisine. Basically, Tyrolean cuisine is hearty, but also shines with sweet specialties that inspire. In addition to classic restaurants, Innsbruck also attracts trendy cafés, bars and clubs. In addition to traditional Tyrolean dishes such as bacon dumplings, Kaspresknödel, Kasspatzln and Gröstl, Innsbruck also attracts numerous restaurateurs with Italian cuisine and international restaurants from Asian to Mexican are also present in the Tyrolean capital. Accordingly, every sightseeing tour can also be crowned with a culinary highlight.

Innsbruck Card

Kaprun – one of the most popular ski regions in Austria

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The town of Kaprun in the Austrian Alps is not only one of the most famous ski regions in Austria, but also a popular backdrop for hikers and excursionists outside the winter months. With impressive nature and of course the perfect backdrop for one or two attempts at winter sports, the region knows how to attract holidaymakers from Europe and all over the world. It is above all the fact that Kaprun is not only a popular destination in winter that ensures that you should take a closer look at the offers on site.

Zell am See and Kaprun – between hiking and winter sports

Zell am See in summer
Zell am See is also a worthwhile destination in summer, Image: mRGB / shutterstock

The district of Zell am See is probably one of the most beautiful areas that Austria has to offer. In front of an impressive backdrop, a whole area of hotels and guesthouses has been built up, which are available all year round for the needs of holidaymakers. It’s a bit as if Kaprun were one city in the months between April and October and completely different just in time for the first snowfall in the Austrian Alps. In summer, the company mainly works with tourists who have come to the city for hiking and recreation. Culture is on the agenda and everything moves a little slower. This changes with the target group, which is looking for fun, excitement and, of course, relaxation here in winter.

With around 2.5 million overnight stays, Kaprun and the Zell am See area are one of the most popular areas in the whole of Austria. This is certainly also due to the fact that with the adjacent glacier areas, skiing is theoretically available as an option all year round. In fact, however, actual tourism traffic usually only begins with the onset of winter. The rest of the year, hikes lead into the mountains and offer a view of the incredible natural scenery that this region has to offer. Holidaymakers can either plan their hikes on their own or take part in guided hikes, which sometimes include an overnight stay in a mountain hut.

Hikes and discoveries – Kaprun in the summer months

The magic of Kaprun and Zell am See can only really be discovered once you have undertaken a comprehensive hike in the region. Along the Alps, for example, there is the famous Kaprun Castle, which was built in the late Middle Ages and still rises defiantly from its rock above the region. A classic destination for many hikes that start from Kaprun. The hiking trail usually continues through the Sigmund-Thun-Klamm, a small gorge with a waterfall and an impressive natural spectacle to the Mooserboden dam. From here you have an impressive view over the landscape and the unique nature that Kaprun and Zell am See have to offer.

Kaprun as a centre for winter sports in Austria

Kaprun in summer
Kaprun in summer, Image: mRGB / shutterstock

The Kitzsteinhorn glacier area at an altitude of around 3,000 metres is the core of the Kaprun ski area and attracts holidaymakers from all over the world to a great ride on the ski slopes. The associated glacier lift, which takes people to the lofty heights, was completely rebuilt after the disaster in the past and is now one of the most modern glacier lifts that can be found in the Alps. The Maiskogel ski area expands the offer for winter sports fans in the region and offers a great alternative to the route on the glacier with different slopes and different levels of difficulty, especially for experienced ski fans.

Of course, winter sports are not just associated with skiing or snowboarding. It also always depends on the infrastructure that is offered in the respective places. Kaprun therefore offers different packages for different requirements. First of all, it should be noted that there are a variety of hotels, hostels and accommodations in Zell am See where you can stay during the season. There are also the right alternatives for different budgets. While a simple hostel is already available at reasonable prices, it has been adapted to travelers who are looking for relaxation in addition to winter sports.

The thermal baths, which were discovered during an excavation in Kaprun Castle, now feed a spa in the village and thus offer just the right option for relaxation in addition to the actual accommodation. Here you can relax in the warm springs and take care of your battered bones and muscles after a long day.

Of course, there is also everything you could wish for in a ski resort. Après-ski is just as much a topic here as a selection of good restaurants where you can stop for a bite to eat and various options for excursions. The offer for hikes is also available in winter and can offer a great change from winter spots in the region’s ski resorts.

Siena – medieval city in Tuscany

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In the middle of Tuscany lies the Italian provincial capital Siena. It enjoys a reputation as one of the most beautiful cities in the country. Its old town has been part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1995. Its university, founded in 1240, is one of the oldest Italian educational institutions.

Siena’s special features

One of the special features of Siena is the medieval appearance of the city. In Roman times, the place was called Sena Julia. In the Middle Ages, Siena rose to become an independent city-state, but found itself involved in a large number of conflicts between different parties. However, when Florence deprived the city of Siena of its freedoms and united with it in 1557, the decline of the once magnificent metropolis began. Nevertheless, Siena has preserved many of its traditions to this day. Thus, the 17 autonomous city districts still have their old coats of arms and flags, which were awarded to them in ancient times. In addition, the inhabitants of Siena are wholeheartedly involved when it comes to the old traditions.

Visitors to Siena can look forward to numerous cultural events such as concerts, shows, cinemas and sports activities. For a complete tour of the city, a few days should be brought along. Siena is full of interesting sights.

How to get to Siena

Siena can be easily reached via Florence and Pisa airports. There are also several bus and train connections. However, in order to be allowed to drive to Siena by car, a special permit is required. Some alleys in the Italian city are so narrow that it is better to cross them on foot.

A walk through the Piazza del Campo

Aerial view Piazza del Campo, Siena
Aerial view of Piazza del Campo, Image: Mihai-Bogdan Lazar / shutterstock

The Piazza del Campo forms the main square of Siena. It has the shape of a shell and thus achieves a special harmony. It connects Siena’s three districts, so that it marks the heart of the city, so to speak. The Piazza del Campo is characterized by the Gothic palazzi of the richest families in the city, which form a fascinating backdrop.

The Piazza del Campo is considered a popular meeting place for locals and visitors. A sought-after attraction is the Fonte Gaia fountain. Another attraction of the square is the high tower Palazzo Publico with its Gothic triplet windows. Also worth a detour is the Museo Civicio, the city palace of Siena. In the building there are wonderful frescoes by well-known artists from the city.

Another attraction of the square is the Torre de Mangia, which reaches a height of 100 meters. The tower with its top can be climbed for a visit. From there, there is a phenomenal view of the enchanting city.

A special tip – Palio: the horse race of Siena

One of Siena’s biggest attractions is the Palio. This horse race takes place every year in Piazza del Campo. In this demanding competition, the Contrades, Siena’s 17 districts, compete against each other. The horse race, which has been around since the 13th century, is held twice a year, on 2 July to honour the Madonna di Provenzano and on 16 August to honour the Assumption of the Virgin Mary.

Typical for the Palio are not only the saddleless horses, but also costumes from the Middle Ages, drums, flags and, of course, the enthusiasm of the local spectators. The Piazza del Campo is then transformed into a roaring arena. In addition, a historical parade will be organized.

The Siena Cathedral

Duomo in Siena
The Duomo in Siena, Image: oltrelautostrada / shutterstock

One of the most beautiful sacred buildings in Italy in the Gothic style is the Cathedral of Siena. Together with the other churches in the city, it stands for the varied history of the city. It also bears witness to Siena’s first-class art. The cathedral is impressive and richly decorated. The magnificent bell tower is also not to be missed. The more dominant is also richly decorated. There are 171 busts of popes, frescoes, Madonna pictures and rose windows worth seeing.

Also worth a look is the Basilica of San Domenico, which dates back to the 13th century. Inside, the basilica appears extraordinarily wide. Two works of art about St. Catherine, who is Siena’s patron saint, can be admired.

The church of San Francesco is also impressive, where there are many admirable frescoes. Another church worth seeing is the Santa Maria del Cervi. It offers not only beautiful art paintings, but also a fantastic view.

The museums of Siena

In Siena there are a number of interesting museums and galleries with their unique art treasures to admire. Not far from the main square, the Archaeological Museum in Piazza del Duomo invites you to visit. It is located on the highest point of the city. Wonderful frescoes are exhibited in the museum.

If you are interested in works of art from the Siena Cathedral and the neighboring monasteries, the Museo de ́ll Opera del Duomo is the right place for you. The Madonna image Maesta is considered particularly impressive.

In the Pinacoteca Nazionale, lovers of paintings will get their money’s worth. It is located in Palazzo Buonsignori and presents more than one hundred paintings dating from the 13th to the 16th centuries.


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The Santa Caterina memorial is dedicated to St. Catherine. She was canonized by the Pope in 1451. Her parents’ house was converted into a memorial site, which has a small pilgrimage church.

The children’s museum Bambimus – Museo d ́Arte per Bambini has been set up especially for the little ones. It shows various exhibitions in a child-friendly presentation. Workshops are also held there. There is also a permanent exhibition of international children’s drawings to admire.

Comino – The little sister of Malta

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The island of Malta has become one of the most popular German travel destinations in recent years. This has to do not only with the fact that the island was a popular refuge with open borders, especially in times of the pandemic, but also with the fact that the tourist infrastructure here has been massively expanded. The capital Valetta in particular attracts visitors with a beautiful old town and Mediterranean climate all year round. In addition to the main island of Malta , there are various other sights on the surrounding islands. A special little treasure is the island of Comino, which is officially inhabited by only two people today.

Malta’s little sister with its own nature

Malta is of course best known for the many sights from the Middle Ages. In addition, the island offers an insight into the nature of the Mediterranean island. Comino, as Malta’s little sister, is not much different, except that you won’t meet tourists from all over the world here. With an area of just 3 km², the island has never really been of strategic importance, but over the years it has become an important refuge for pirates. This is mainly due to the many caves and lagoons that can still be found on the coast today. In the best time of the island, the settlement was 200 people, today officially only three people live here, who mainly take care of the administration for tourists and nature conservation. In the present day, the importance of the island declined and it was only with the emergence of tourism to Malta that what once made the island so desirable was rediscovered: the picturesque coastlines and the almost untouched nature, which had the opportunity to develop and thrive here free of Malta’s development. Over the years, the island has changed in a variety of ways. The traces of the last buildings that can be found here still bear witness to this today. Sometimes it was the aforementioned escape of pirates from the Mediterranean, then it was a quarantine station for sailors who were not supposed to bring the diseases to the main island. Agriculture could only be practiced to a limited extent on the island and yet caraway was the product that determined the economy here for quite a while. Today it is only an island for day tourists who come from Malta by ferry. The last hotel on the island closed in 2019 and therefore there are officially no possibilities for overnight stays on Comino.

What should you see in Comino?

St. Mary's Tower Comino
St. Mary’s Tower, Image: McCarthy’s PhotoWorks / shutterstock
After the end of the last hotel on the island, Camino is actually only a destination for a day trip. From the main island, it is about 15 minutes by ferry, which runs several times a day and heads for the island’s port, which is still maintained today. Even the crossing to Comino is a small sight in itself, because from the ferry you can see the impressive coastline with its caves and bays, where the pirates once hid in the Mediterranean. Booking.com The island is particularly famous for its blue lagoon and it is precisely this sight that most ferry services that set off from Malta advertise. In the lagoon you not only have an impressive view of the water, but also several beaches in the immediate vicinity. As a traveler, you can choose between different tours. One ferry heads specifically for the beaches on the island, where you can spend a day and swim in the Mediterranean. It is important that attention is paid to the catering here, because even in the high season there are actually no opportunities for shopping on Comino. Many of the service providers for excursions therefore also offer a package in which the physical well-being is taken care of. Whether and to what extent the bars and snack stalls are available is therefore always a bit of a matter of luck. Either way, you can pursue various sports in the water. In addition to classic activities such as banana boat or jet skiing, the island has made a name for itself above all for its picturesque landscape below sea level. Many holidaymakers are drawn to the blue lagoon and the sea around the island for diving and snorkelling – it is not for nothing that it is an award-winning area for the underwater world of the Mediterranean.

Exploring the last traces of Comino

The island is not very large, which offers the advantage that the other sights can be explored quickly. Especially those who want to escape the hustle and bustle on the beach will see two traces of the island’s former settlement with the old quarantine station and especially with the Comino Tower. The view from the Comino Tower, which was once part of a fortification and has been restored, is beautiful and extends all the way to the main island. All in all, Comino is the perfect destination for a trip from Malta for a variety of reasons. If you have decided to travel to the island in the Mediterranean, you should not miss the opportunity to visit the little sister and go diving in the blue lagoon yourself.

Brazil – wild forests and the most beautiful city in the world

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“In six days God created the earth – on the seventh day he created Rio de Janeiro. It is the most beautiful city in the world…” There is no shortage of gentle exaggerations among the people of Brazil, even though everyone there knows that no country on our globe can claim to be perfect. And yet: The large country in the south of the subcontinent has long since freed itself from its clichés. It is the largest economy in South America and is certainly a miracle of nature. And that’s why Brazil is still the dream destination for people who explore the world with their eyes open. If you want to understand the country with its more than 140 million people, you should search for the soul of the fun-loving Brazilians. He will also find them in the paradisiacal coastal strips, the samba schools and in the football stadiums. But not only there. Brazil is a country with industry and Indians. A country in the pendulum between light and shadow.

The balancing act between misery and renewal

A holiday in Brazil – this is the somewhat different journey on our planet. The impressive figure of the “Cristo Redentor”, the Redeemer, is enthroned at exactly 709 meters above sea level on the Corcovado and looks down on his people from there. From here, a grandiose perspective opens up with the world-famous Sugarloaf Mountain and the evergreen Tijuca National Park. The sublime Christ, to whom his builders gave a span of 28 meters, is something like a symbol of this region. With its expansive gestures, the figure made of reinforced concrete conveys faith and hope even to the disappointed in this huge city on the Sugarloaf Mountain. Brazil is a country that is sometimes entangled between the protection of its reserves and the raiding of its incomparable forests. It remains to be seen whether the balancing act between misery and renewal will succeed. But since tourism plays an important role in this, one can wish this multi-ethnic state with its young population luck above all.

Rio de Janeiro – Testimonies of the Portuguese colonial era

Cristo Redentor Brazil
Cristo Redentor in Rio de Janeiro, Image: marchello74/shutterstock

The majority of tours in Brazil start in Rio de Janeiro. This incomparably beautiful city declared war on the general chaos years ago and has now freed itself from some nightmares. In some areas, the slums have been transformed into neat residential areas, and on the world-famous Praia de Copacabana, civilian “peace police” now monitor that no one leaves a Coke can there after their stay at the beach. But not only the kilometer-long beach of Rio is worth seeing. Insiders prefer to stroll through the bucolic district of Urca, at the foot of the Sugarloaf Mountain. With its picturesque, colourful houses and testimonies to the Portuguese colonial era, the region on the shores of Guanabaro Bay occupies a special position. Many of Urca’s bars offer fried sardines and an ice-cold beer.

São Paulo – The Experiment of Uncoordinated Growth

Sao Paulo, Brazil
São Paulo, Image: Thiago Leite/shutterstock

Even though Rio is something like the gateway to Brazil and undoubtedly a highlight of this trip, the real wonders of the great South American country only begin beyond Copacabana. São Paulo, the financial center of Brazil, presents itself as cosmopolitan and ultra-modern and has always seen itself as a triumph of sprawling and wild growth. Here, the structure of this desert of steel and concrete produced remarkable blossoms. Where the villas of the millionaire coffee barons stand today, the rotten houses of former gold diggers, Indians and slaves once disappeared. In Sao Paulo , it is cramped, hot and full of migrants who live away from those people who can claim to be wealthy. The famous carnival takes place in Bahia and Rio – Sao Paulo is above all the not necessarily successful experiment of uncoordinated growth.

In the footsteps of slaves from Africa

The diversity of Brazil is evident in one less trip to the juggernaut of Sao Paulo. Rather at the Iguacu Falls in the border triangle with Paraguay and Argentina. Well over 1,700 cubic metres of water plunge into the depths per second in a width of four kilometres. “Big water” is what the Indians called this thunderous wonder of nature on the Rio Paraná. If you dare to do it, you should not miss the opportunity to get very close to the waterfalls over a 1200-metre-long footbridge. The price is bearable: you get quite wet from the spray. One of the most exciting stops on a trip through Brazil is undoubtedly Salvador da Bahia. Here, visitors walk in the footsteps of history, as this port city was once the destination of slaves from Africa. Their descendants still shape everyday life in Bahia today – with their traditions, pagan deities and an interesting culture. In the old town, you should take your time to visit the São Francisco Convent. This is a timeless example of the era of the so-called “tropical baroque”.


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Brasilia – a metropolis for motorists

Proud of its image as a World Heritage Site – and even more so of its architecture – is the city of Brasilia. It was built on the drawing board, has long been the capital of the country and owes its creation to the ideas of the architect Oscar Niemeyer. He was once mayor of Belo Horizonte and in the fifties of the last century realized the election promise of Brazilian President Juscelino Kubitschek on the Planalto, a high plateau. A city emerged from nothing and became the “playground” of ingenious landscape planners. Anyone who travels to Brasilia from the air today recognizes the axes of a cross or the wings of an airliner on approach. No road is narrow here, but multi-lane – ideal for exploring by taxi. Because Brasilia was not created for pedestrians, but for motorists. Niemeyer, whose ancestors came from Hanover , created his masterpiece with the Praca dos Tres Poderes, the towers and hemispheres of the Congress and Senate.

Amazonia – a treasure trove of life

If you decide to travel to the green infinity of the Amazon region as a holidaymaker in Brazil, you are going to a region that takes most visitors’ breath away. Manaus is the hub of such tours and boasts a remarkable opera house. There, Christoph Schlingenschlaff staged the “Flying Dutchman”. But the adventure begins beyond the city limits. Where there are no paths and where rivers have always been the lifelines of Amazonia. It is the refuge of the Indians who, far away from civilization, live in the Jau National Park, among other places. This is the largest forest wilderness on earth, a catwalk of evolution and at the same time an endangered paradise. The Panatal Marsh and Amazonia are Brazil’s treasure trove of life.

The most popular winter sports resorts in France

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The Alps in the heart of Europe offer numerous opportunities for winter sports. First and foremost, of course, for alpine sports, i.e. everything that leads down a mountain on skis. But there is also the opportunity for cross-country skiing and other winter sports. Some of the largest and, above all, most attractive ski resorts in the Alps are located on French territory. Hundreds of kilometres of ski slopes and numerous ski lifts provide visitors to these French ski resorts with extensive skiing fun. The following paragraphs reveal which winter sports resorts in France are the most popular and appealing among the large numbers that exist; each with a short explanation of the winter sports resort presented. One of them is even located in the Pyrenees.

Olympics and a lot of sports history

Chamonix

Chamonix on Mont Blanc
Chamonix on Mont Blanc, Image: Victorpalych / shutterstock
This place, whose full name is Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, is perhaps the most famous winter sport in all of France. This is also due to the fact that the first Winter Olympics were held here in 1924. Of course, this was only possible because the two adjacent ski mountains Le Brévent and La Flégère offer excellent opportunities for alpine skiing. The latter is more suitable for families and beginners, while the former offers challenging and sometimes extremely difficult slopes. However, these are only one of a total of six different ski areas around Chamonix, which together offer over 150 kilometres of slopes. In addition, the entire region is well equipped in terms of infrastructure – i.e. transport, accommodation and supply.

Val-d’Isère

This winter sports resort is also extremely well-known, although it has just 1,500 inhabitants. Its two local mountains, Solaise and Bellevarde, form the Killy ski area, which is named after the Olympic champion in skiing, Jean-Claude Killy, who grew up here. Val-d’Isère is located only 5 kilometers from the border with Italy and was the scene of the 1992 Winter Olympics. It is also home to the Terentaise Valley, which has the largest number of world-class ski resorts in the world. In addition, the ski resorts of Paradiski and Les Trois Valées can also be reached quickly from Val-d’Isère.

Where the Tour de France and winter sports go hand in hand

Courchevel

This place is the first ever in France to be converted into a ski resort. In the case of Chamonix, this happened as early as 1946. Courchevel consists of five actually small villages, which have been expanded to include a variety of overnight accommodation. With around 2,100 hectares of ski resorts, Courchevel is one of the largest in the world. There are almost 500 kilometres of ski slopes to use in the immediate vicinity, spread over 105 different slopes. Of course, all of them are perfect to use with ski lifts. In addition, there are 128 kilometers of cross-country ski trails, despite the very mountainous topography of Courchevel and the surrounding area. Unlike many other French winter sports resorts, Courchevel is also heavily frequented in summer. Then the guests go mountaineering, mountain hiking or mountain biking. There are also numerous festivals and even art exhibitions to visit here.

Les Deux Alpes

This is the name of a French center for winter sports in the Isère department. Located in the Dauphiné Alps at an altitude of 1,650 metres on La Meije, which is almost 4,000 metres high, it is also an off-piste experience to choose this place as your destination. The development of Les Deux Alpes from a small mountain village to a ski centre has been driven forward since the 1950s. 220 kilometres of downhill runs spread over 102 ski slopes, which are served by 51 different lifts, attract thousands and thousands of guests from all over the world every year. In contrast to most French winter sports resorts in the Alps, you will also find cross-country skiing trails here. Its length is 25 kilometres, which make up the three circular routes together.

Family-oriented old villages invite you

L’Alpe d’Huez

This place actually gets its popularity from being a famous mountain finish of the Tour de France cycling race. But in winter there are also plenty of opportunities for alpine skiing. The first T-bar lift ever was built here in the 1930s. A total of no less than 249 kilometres of pistes and 84 (!) Ski lifts are located in the immediate vicinity of L’Alpe d’Huez. The majority of the slopes are of easy difficulty, which is why a trip to L’Alpe d’Huez is particularly suitable for beginners in skiing. A variety of snow-making systems ensure guaranteed snow and skiing enjoyment even in mild temperatures. For more experienced skiers, there are many opportunities to ski off-piste in deep snow or to ski the longest “black” – i.e. the most difficult category – Sarenne slope at 16 kilometres.

Les Gets

Les Gets France
Winter atmosphere in Les Gets, Image: Mikael Broms / shutterstock
This idyllic, family-oriented place has its roots in the 11th century. Even today, it can be called absolutely picturesque, even if the size of the village has increased greatly due to the many chalets in which winter sports tourists spend the night. Located in the Auvergne-Rhônes-Alpes region, you have direct access to the Les Portes du Soleil ski area, which offers no less than 650 kilometres of ski slopes. These are mostly geared towards families and thus also beginners in skiing. Accordingly, the structure of the guests in Les Gets, whose town centre continues to offer an authentic historical atmosphere, is also corresponding.

Picturesque and secluded in front of an impressive mountain backdrop

Pra-Loup

This French winter sports resort is located in the Alpes-de-Haute-Provence department and is part of the Espace Lumière ski area. It is the fifth largest ski area in the Southern Alps and offers 180 kilometres of ski slopes, which in turn are served by 38 ski lifts. In addition, a total of 21 snow cannons always enable the skiing experience you are looking for on a trip here, even in adverse external conditions.

La Pierre Saint-Martin

This ski resort, which is not to be found in the Alps but in the Pyrenees, is located right on the border with Spain. It has 20 different ski slopes, all of which lead down the Pic d’Arlas, which is over 2,000 meters high. These are served by 11 ski lifts. Across the border, you have access to 25 kilometers of cross-country ski trails. The accommodations here are explicitly designed for the visit of families, most of whom are accommodated in chalets. Apart from winter sports, there are also huge caves open to the public in the middle of the mountain massifs of the Pyrenees. Conclusion on the most beautiful winter sports resorts in France The number of winter sports resorts in France is so large that only a very small selection can actually be presented here. But this one has it all, from the world-famous Olympic venue to the idyllic mountain village, everything that the heart of an alpine skier in France can desire. Which is supposed to give a first, brief overview of the huge selection.

The Island of Myths: Ithaca

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The island of Ithaca, or Ithaki in Greek, is a relatively unknown destination for most visitors, although the name is probably familiar to anyone interested in Greek mythology. Ithaca was the home of Odysseus, the legendary Greek king who took ten years to return home after the end of the Trojan War. His journey is described in one of the epic poems of Greek antiquity, Homer’s Odyssey. It is a symbol of human struggles, temptations and goals, with the return to Ithaca marking the end of the adventure. Today, modern Ithaca is a tranquil island, ideal for people who want to relax and enjoy nature. The island belongs to the Ionian Islands, which are located on the west side of the Greek mainland. While its most popular neighbours, Corfu, Lefkada, Kefalonia and Zakynthos attract many visitors, Ithaca does not seem to be on the itinerary of most tourists in Greece . It has about 3,000 inhabitants and has been inhabited since 4,000 BC.

Things to do in Ithaca

Port of Vathi on the island of Ithaca
The cozy harbor of Vathi, Image: Milan Gonda / shutterstock
When it comes to what to do in Ithaca, the simple advice is to relax, take it easy, and enjoy the moment. At the same time, it is absolutely worthwhile to explore the island. There are beautiful beaches around Ithaca, and the landscapes are breathtaking. To the south you will find the main town of Vathi, the main port of Pisaetos and some beaches. To the north, there are smaller villages, more beaches, and evidence that King Odysseus really lived here, most likely over 3,000 years ago. The picturesque town of Vathi is located right in one of the most beautiful and safest harbours in Greece. It is a completely protected natural bay where hundreds of sailboats and private yachts dock every summer. Vathi is the only major city on Ithaca and has a population of just under 2,000 people. A delightful little place to stroll around, enjoy delicious food, a coffee or a beer overlooking the harbour. Here you will also find the only nightlife on the island. The village of Stavros is the main village in the northern part of the island and stands out for its large church. In the main square, you can see a model of Odysseus’ palace. In the north of Ithaca you will find two small villages, Exogi and Platrithias, which are quite close to each other. Exogi is located on the top of a 340-meter-high mountain and offers great views of the cliffs around Afales Beach and the Ionian Sea. It is one of the oldest surviving settlements in Ithaca, as many of the stone houses were built in the 18th century. Strange masks are attached to some houses, which are believed to keep the evil spirits away. It is believed that the palace of Odysseus used to stand in the area between Exogi and Platrithias, which is now an archaeological site.
Afales Beach in Ithaca
The beautiful beach Afeles, Image: photo stella / shutterstock
Perhaps the most beautiful village in Ithaca is Kioni and is located on the northeast side of the island. It is atmospherically located on a green hill, overlooking the bay. Check out the old stone houses built among the olive trees and sit down for a meal or a drink in one of the small restaurants overlooking the marina. Or come here at sunrise and take a walk to this scenic viewpoint where you can see the island’s three windmills. Like everywhere else in Greece, Ithaca is full of churches. The large monastery on top of the highest mountain on the island, Moni Katharon, invites you to explore. It is located at an altitude of about 600 meters above sea level, on the top of a mountain that Homer referred to as Nirito. It was built in the late 16th century. From the monastery you have a beautiful view of Vathi and the rest of the southern part of the island. Even if you are not interested in the monastery itself, you should definitely come up here, if only for the view.

The coastline of Ithaca Island

From Platrithias you can reach the beach of Afales, a deep bay surrounded by steep cliffs. A little further away is Platia Ammos beach, which can only be reached by sea and is probably the best beach in Ithaca. King Odysseus definitely had good taste when it came to the view! If you’re in the area, be sure to grab a bite to eat at Yefyri restaurant. It is recommended to reserve a table in good time, but you can still try your luck without a reservation. Ithaca has many beaches, some of which are easily accessible by car, while others are only accessible by a descent or boat ride. The beaches in Ithaca are very different from the beaches of the other Greek islands, as they are generally smaller and have more pebbles – but the water is just as clear. If you are staying in Vathi, the nearest beaches are Filiatro, Mnimata/Minimata, Loutsa, Sarakiniko, Dexa and Skino. Depending on the season, they can be well attended. If you live in Stavros or nearby, there are many small beaches around the coast, however, you will need a car to get there. Poli beach is close to Stavros and you can reach it on foot as the only one.