The land of Lincoln, that’s what Illinois calls itself on its license plates. In fact, the state in the Midwest of the USA has a lot of history to offer. But beyond that, Illinois is extremely versatile and offers plenty of room for travel experiences.
View of Chicago, Image: marchello74 / shutterstock The metropolis of Chicago with its sprawling conurbation, sandy beaches on Lake Michigan, dense forests and extensive grain fields: Illinois unites so many different faces within its borders that the state is often referred to as a kind of miniature of the entire country. This also applies to the diverse population, which ensures cultural diversity. Illinois is home to a variety of musical genres as well as its own culinary specialties. These include, for example, variations of dishes brought by immigrants such as Chicago-style pizza. The region’s past as the end point of cattle transports from the west of the country also includes a preference for strong meat dishes and a distinctive barbecue culture.
Cosmopolitan city Chicago
A visit to Chicago, the home of the skyscraper, is of course a must on any tour of Illinois. The impressive skyline around the Willis Tower, once the tallest building in the world, can be explored from the Magnificent Mile. This is the name given to the section of Michigan Avenue where restaurants, fine shops and some of the city’s tallest buildings are concentrated. Just a few blocks away is the historic Navy Pier, a popular hangout with an amusement park, beer garden, and great views of the city and Lake Michigan. Also worth a visit in the “Windy City” are Lincoln Park, which is often compared to New York’s Central Park, and the Museum Campus, located on the shores of the lake, where there are several museums that are well worth seeing. In the surrounding area of the metropolis, it is worth taking a detour to Elgin with its pretty townscape, rich cultural programme and nature reserves in the city area.
Off the beaten track
For most visitors, their stay in Illinois begins and ends in Chicago, but this means that they miss out on an interesting region of the USA and the chance for many small discoveries. These include, for example, Illinois’ capital Springfield, where you can see Abraham Lincoln’s former home, his grave and a museum dedicated to him, as well as the State Capitol. In the far south of the state lies the Shawnee National Forest, an extensive nature reserve, the highlight of which is the impressive rock formations of the Garden of the Gods. In western Illinois, the legendary Mississippi River forms the border with the neighboring state of Iowa. This area is home to a number of reservoirs and state parks that are popular destinations for hiking, biking or picnicking. A special feature are the Cahokia Mounds opposite St. Louis. There are a total of almost 70 earth pyramids here, which were built by hand hundreds of years ago by the inhabitants of the city that existed here at that time. Once the largest pre-Columbian city outside of Mexico, the site is now preserved as a World Heritage Site.
Discover Illinois on your own
The Lincoln Statue in Springfield, Image: Brian S / shutterstock O’Hare Airport (https://www.airport-ohare.com/) is one of the largest and busiest airports in the entire country in Illinois. Thanks to its central location, the state is easily accessible from all directions. Here, where the famous Route 66 begins, the car still plays the main role in getting around; Illinois can be easily accessed via interstate highways. If you want to experience nature and history and get to know small-town America , it is best to orient yourself to the south and west of Illinois. In the northeast, the vibrant metropolis of Chicago attracts visitors with an almost endless range of culture and entertainment. Illinois has a continental climate with distinct seasons. Because of the influence of the Great Lakes, there is often more precipitation in the north than in the rest of the state. Especially during the peak season in spring, tornadoes can occur anywhere in Illinois, but in general you can expect a normal, temperate climate here.
Facts about Illinois
Where is Illinois?
Illinois is a state of the United States and is located in the Midwest.
What is the population of Illinois?
In 2018, the state of Illinois had approximately 12.75 million inhabitants.
What is the capital of Illinois called?
The capital of Illinois is Springfield.
Which is the largest city in Illinois?
Chicago is the largest city in the state of Illinois.
Anyone who hears the name of the Austrian capital immediately has music in their ears: Mozart, Beethoven, but also Gustav Mahler and Peter Alexander lived and worked in Vienna. Vienna was and is not for nothing the home of many musicians and artists. The vibrant city of Vienna combines the magnificent flair of its imperial history with modern cool. Whether you are discovering Vienna for the first time or have known it for a long time: the friendly Danube metropolis will surprise you with new fascinating facets on every trip.
Maria vom Siege Church, Image: Calin Stan / shutterstock Cosy coffee houses, delicious Sachertorte, the legendary Wiener Schnitzel and the famous Naschmarkt are simply part of a visit to Vienna. Over 150 stalls from all over the world literally tempt you to snack here. But there are also hip cafés and trendy bars that, thanks to their Viennese charm, are less cool than elsewhere. Not only in autumn, the traditional Heurigen restaurants in the Grinzing district provide for physical well-being and a good mood with hearty horse-drawn carriage goulash, new wines and music. If you like it sweet, you shouldn’t miss the Anna cake in the former k.u.k. court confectionery Demel. With a Melange or a small brown beer, you can watch delicious cakes being created through a glass pane in a magnificent ambience. Freshly strengthened, you are excellently equipped for visiting the sights in and around Vienna.
Vienna for city walkers
Many of the sights of the Austrian capital can be easily explored on foot: Stroll from the Steffl, as the Viennese affectionately call St. Stephen’s Cathedral, through the moat to the famous State Opera on Herbert von Karajan Square. The world-famous Vienna Opera Ball takes place there every year. Hike along the Opernring in the direction of the MuseumsQuartier: The Kunsthistorisches Museum and the Natural History Museum are not only impressive from the outside. The two museums are among the most important in the world and are definitely worth a visit. Walk across the grandiose Heldenplatz in the direction of the Volksgarten. The green oasis in Vienna’s city center is a small paradise and the first public park in the city center. The rose bushes, for which you can take on a sponsorship, are a beautiful backdrop and invite you to take a photo stop. The Vienna Parliament and the City Hall are further stops on the glamorous city walk, which has different highlights in store every season.
Vienna for horse-drawn carriage drivers
Fiaker in Vienna, Image: Muellek Josef / shutterstock If you are less good on foot and want to experience Vienna particularly authentically, you can take a horse-drawn carriage at least once. The two-horse carriage is one of the landmarks that everyone associates with Vienna. Many horse-drawn carriages are already over 100 years old and are regularly lovingly restored. At all the striking sights, horse-drawn carriages are available for a traditional city tour with original Viennese stories. Depending on the price negotiated in advance, the round is smaller or larger. The Prater with the world-famous Ferris wheel, the imaginative Hundertwasser House or even the legendary Central Cemetery can be easily reached by horse-drawn carriage.
Vienna for Art Lovers
The Kunsthistorisches Museum, which emerged from the art collections of the House of Habsburg, is an attraction for almost every visitor to Vienna. Works by such well-known artists as Titian, Tintoretto, Rubens, van Dyck, Vermeer, Rembrandt, Raphael, Caravaggio, Velázquez and Dürer attract tourists from all over the world every day. The Albertina regularly surprises with top-class special exhibitions of renowned painters and highlights by Chagall and Picasso. For friends of Viennese Art Nouveau, a visit to the Vienna Secession with Klimt’s Beethoven Frieze right next to the Naschmarkt is worthwhile after a stroll through the city, during which many exciting examples can be discovered. The Leopold Museum in the MuseumsQuartier, which opened in 2001, inspires with a large collection of important works by Gustav Klimt, Egon Schiele and Oskar Kokoschka. Belvedere Palace is also a hotpot for art lovers, who can visit the world’s largest Klimt exhibition in the beautiful baroque palace.
Vienna from above
The Christmas market in Vienna, Image: Muellek Josef / shutterstock The sweaty ascent over 343 steps to the south tower of St. Stephen’s Cathedral is rewarded with a magnificent panoramic view. From up here, the striking church roof is also particularly photogenic. The slightly lower plateau of the north tower can be reached by elevator. If you pay a visit to the Water Zoo in the House of the Sea, you also have a magnificent view from the café on the roof terrace. The classic for a great panoramic view over the city is still a ride on the famous 65-meter-high Ferris wheel in the Prater. If you want to go even higher, you can get a bird’s-eye view of the Danube city from the 170-metre-high Danube Tower while enjoying culinary delights. Viennese and tourists alike rave about the sunset on the Kahlenberg, the panoramic mountain at the gates of Vienna.
In Sissi’s footsteps
The former Austrian empress still awakens dreams today. Quite a few visitors to Vienna dream themselves back to the imperial era day after day: The Sisi Museum, the Hofburg and, of course, Schönbrunn Palace make important stations in the life of the empress, brought to life by Romy Schneider, come alive to this day. A stroll through the spacious palace park and the imperial apartments is always fascinating. If you want to visit Sissi’s final resting place, you can take a guided tour of the imperial crypt under the Capuchin Church.
Music is in the air
It is certainly no coincidence that more composers have lived in Vienna than in any other city: opera, operetta, musicals, waltzes and Wienerlied are at home in the city. The Vienna Boys’ Choir, the Vienna Philharmonic and the Vienna Symphony Orchestra are an institution far beyond Austria’s borders. Music lovers should not miss a concert, a visit to the Mozart House, the Hadyn House, the Beethoven Museum or the Museum of the Johann Strauss Dynasty during their visit to Vienna. The much-sung city of Vienna is always worth a visit. Whether you are planning a weekend or a longer stay in the city: Vienna will always surprise and inspire you.
Forests, glaciers, crystal-clear mountain lakes and a fantastic location in the Upper Engadine Lake District – St. Moritz is Switzerland’s original winter wonderland and the cradle of Alpine tourism. Probably everyone is familiar with the name. Nobles, the rich and beautiful and all those who want to belong have been coming here since 1864. With the high mountains and the fabulous lake, the village provides a dreamlike backdrop. Perhaps St. Moritz is the most famous resort in the Alps, but certainly the most exclusive and extravagant, at least in winter. In summer, you won’t find the “beautiful people”. Located in the Upper Engadin district of the Swiss canton of Graubünden, St. Moritz is one of the most famous winter sports resorts and health resorts in the entire Alpine region. Many things are “top” here: the location at an altitude of 1856 metres, the dry “champagne climate”, the elegant and exclusive guests and accommodation, the density of highly decorated gourmet restaurants and the cultural programme. Despite all the “Gucci chic” in the bars and all the celebs on the slopes, the place is not just a catwalk. Its real treasure is the difficult black slopes of Diavolezza and the carving slopes of Corviglia.
Great evening atmosphere, Image: yongyot therdthai / shutterstock In St. Moritz, a heart beats with money. At the turn of the 20th century, the European aristocracy met in the village. In the mid-1980s, the nouveau riche and starlets dominated. To this day, the Pradas, Guccis, Kashoggis, Grimaldis or Agnellis prefer to enjoy their holidays in their private villas on the super-sunny Suvretta hillside. St. Moritz consists of two districts: St. Moritz-Dorf on the slope above Lake St. Moritz and St. Moritz-Bad in the flat valley floor at the upper end of the lake. In 1864, a hotelier suggested to four Englishmen that they spend a winter in St. Moritz free of charge. From then on, the municipality became the centre of Switzerland’s largest winter sports region – with 350 kilometres of pistes and 88 downhill runs. The first bobsleigh was built in 1889. On the spectacular natural ice bobsleigh run, brave guests can test the ice channel at 1612 meters to Celerina. In addition to the winter sports offer in the cold season, the focus in summer is on water sports, summer skiing, horseback riding, tennis, golf and other activities. The community centre and the school square form the centre of St. Moritz-Dorf, characterised by luxurious hotel buildings. Further north, in the idyllic old cemetery, lies the Leaning Tower. A visit to the Segantini Museum is also worthwhile. In St.-Moriz-Bad, the healing power of the highest Swiss mineral springs beckons. Beautiful panoramic paths invite you to take long walks.
St. Moritz ski area – fantastic slopes, cosy huts, modern lifts and a fantastic panorama
View of St. Moritz, Image: Mike Fuchslocher / shutterstock The excellent ski area of all levels of difficulty is very well developed by mountain railways and numerous lifts. The general ski pass covers all slopes, including Celerina, Silvaplana, Diavolezza, Pontresina, Zuoz and Sils-Maria. Downhill fans usually head for three important areas: Corvatsch, Corviglia and Diavolezza. In Corviglia (2486 meters) you will find well-kept slopes with a fantastic view of the mountains. From St. Moritz-Bad, a cable car runs to the slopes of Piz Nair. It is best to drive to Signal, where the queues are shorter. At Corvatsch (3303 meters) above the nearby Silvaplana there are various opportunities to ski. The fun on skis ranges from spectacular glacier descents to the black slope to the Hahnsee to immaculate snow meadows. Meanwhile, Diavolezza (2978 meters) is a must for freeriders and fans of breathtaking descents. The glacier world is breathtaking. Cross-country skiers are the connoisseurs. They appreciate the scenery and the seductive huts at the edge of the slopes. Groomed trails lead over 160 kilometres through snow-covered forests and over gentle plains. Good to know: Switzerland’s first ski school was founded in St. Moritz in 1929 – one of the first ski lifts in Switzerland hummed here in 1934. In addition, the Winter Olympics in 1928 and 1948 as well as World Cups and World Championships made St. Moritz the No. 1 in international skiing. Thanks to the snow-making facilities and the glaciers on Diavolezza and Corvatsch, you can indulge in cheerful “Brettlfun” from November to May. Every year, Concours Hippique on snow and three international horse races, polo tournament, polo golf tournament and greyhound races take place on the frozen lake.
Hiking, climbing and relaxing
Lake St. Moritz, Image: Eva Bocek / shutterstock Enchanting paths invite you to extensive hiking tours. Particularly popular is the waterway on the Corvatsch, which connects six mountain lakes. If you like, you can climb the Piz Nair, which towers high above St. Moritz. From here you can enjoy an unforgettable panoramic view of the peaks, lakes and the valley. Climbing enthusiasts are drawn to the dizzying Via ferrata of Piz Trovat in the Diavolezza ski area. Climbing equipment is available at the valley station. Fancy an eco-tour? Guests thirsty for knowledge join a two-and-a-half-hour Clean Energy Tour and learn interesting facts about the different forms of renewable energy. Last but not least, tired muscles can relax with a soothing mineral bath in the medical spa. Afterwards, things get hot on the terrace of the Roo Bar in the Hotel Hauser. Others enjoy Bobby’s Pub and enjoy the relaxed and friendly atmosphere. The English pub has 30 different beers on offer. Engadine gem and glamorous winter sports oasis: Guests are greeted with a warm “Allegra” in the Engadine. St. Moritz enriches the Upper Engandin landscape bathed in light in its very own way – a sunny high valley where the sun shines 322 days a year.
Marie-Galante is a Caribbean island that is part of the Lesser Antilles . It is part of the French overseas department of Guadeloupe. The small island is almost round like a circle and reaches a diameter of 15 kilometers. Among the special features of the island are its many windmills. In earlier times, they were used to squeeze sugar cane. At that time, there were about 100 windmills on the island, which gave the island the name “Island of 100 Windmills”. At present, there are still around 70 windmills.
Marie-Galante is located 26 kilometres south of Sainte-Anne in Guadeloupe. Like Guadeloupe, Marie-Galante is one of the Leeward Islands. Since Marie-Galante and Guadeloupe are part of France , they are also part of the European Union. The island has a coastline length of 84 kilometres. Because Marie-Galante is a small island, it doesn’t take long to discover it. There are also only three larger municipalities on the island. These are Saint-Louis, Capesterre and the main town of Grand-Bourg. The most important product on the Caribbean island is the Rhum agricole.
History of the island
Of course, there are also fantastic Caribbean beaches on Marie-Galante, Image: Jakob Fischer / shutterstock Marie-Galante was discovered in 1493 by the navigator Christopher Columbus during his second voyage. He gave the island the name of its caravel “Maria Galanda”. However, it took until 1648 for the French to settle on the island. The French settlers cultivated sugar cane. Over the centuries, the number of inhabitants grew to about 30,000 people. However, when the cultivation of sugar experienced its decline, large parts of the population emigrated. At present, about 13500 people still live on Marie-Galante. Marie-Galante is now very popular as a holiday resort. The island is still considered a kind of insider tip because it is wonderfully suitable for a relaxing holiday away from the tourist crowds. The fantastic beaches invite you to swim. However, the cultural offer is a little more limited. On the other hand, the island scores with its idyllic rural charm. In some places, it seems as if time is no longer moving forward. Inland, there are wonderful opportunities to hike and discover the many old windmills.
Best time to visit Marie-Galante
Because the weather is consistently good, Marie-Galante can be visited all year round. The most rain occurs between July and September. The maximum average maximum temperature is 31 degrees Celsius, the minimum is 21 degrees Celsius. https://youtu.be/MXsr3XkPTP4
How to get to Marie-Galante
From Germany, the island of Marie-Galante can be reached by Air France plane. First from an airport in Germany via Paris to Guadeloupe. From Pointe-a-Pitre, you can take a taxi from the airport to the port. Express boats run regularly there in the direction of Marie-Galante. The journey to the island takes about 50 minutes. Alternatively, the windmill island can also be approached by small plane from Guadeloupe, which only takes about 15 minutes. On the island, it makes sense to take a rental car that can be booked in Germany with international providers. There is also a bus service between St. Louis, Capesterre and Grand-Bourg.
Leisure activities on the Island of 100 Windmills
Particularly in demand on Marie-Galante is water sports in all conceivable variations. Some of the most sought-after sports include surfing, kitesurfing, water skiing, jet skiing, sailing, deep-sea fishing, and fishing. You can also dive on the coral reefs. There are several smaller diving centers. Various international regattas also invite you to visit. In addition, classic sports such as tennis or horseback riding can also be practiced on the island. There are several riding stables in Deshaies. Of course, there are also opportunities for cycling or mountain biking. If you want to go really high, you can do a parachute jump over one of the lagoons.
Beach holidays in Marie-Galante
For lovers of beach holidays, Marie-Galante offers white dream beaches that are among the most beautiful in the entire Caribbean. The sandy beach of La Feulliere with its coconut palms and turquoise blue sea is considered particularly beautiful. One of the best destinations for families with children is Anse-Canot Beach. It is located between two hills in a small bay. Everywhere on Marie-Galante, the water on the beaches is warm and snorkelling is also possible.
The sights of Marie-Galante
The Château Murat, Image: vouvraysan / shutterstock There is also a lot to discover on the Caribbean island away from the hustle and bustle of sunbathing, swimming and water sports, such as the Chateau Murat in Grand-Bourg. The former manor house was built in 1832 and houses Marie-Galante’s Environmental Museum. Several exhibitions provide information about the traditions and way of life of the former islanders. These include culture and fisheries. As already mentioned, Marie-Galante is particularly known for its windmills. Among the mills that are still particularly well preserved is the Bezard mill, which can be easily reached from Grand-Bourg or Capesterre. There you will find some interesting facts about the history of sugar cane. Le Moulin de Bezard is the only restored windmill on the island. Another interesting sight is the castle of Capesterre. After it was subjected to considerable damage in 1928, the historic castle was later restored.
Eating at Marie-Galante
The Windmill Island offers culinary diversity. Outside the hotels, there are several local restaurants and bars that offer French and Creole cuisine, which can be combined with local products. The restaurant Le Touloulou in Capesterre, which is located directly near the beach, is particularly recommended.
When the name Ibiza is mentioned, many people immediately think of its reputation as a party island. But the island, which is located in the Mediterranean, has much more to offer and is not only a destination for hipsters in a party mood. Ibiza has an exciting history and a diverse culture against the backdrop of Spanish serenity. Away from the bars and discos, there are many sights to discover, ranging from imposing buildings to archaeological excavation sites and a nature reserve. Ibiza has enjoyed great popularity with tourists for years, attracting an international audience from all over the world every year.
The old town of Ibiza Town, Image: Mariusz Stanosz / shutterstock As the capital of the Balearic island, Ibiza Town occupies one of the top places in terms of sights, as it offers something for everyone as the largest place on the island. Eivissa, as the town is called in Catalan, exudes a Mediterranean flair, has a dreamy harbour and a picturesque old town called Dalt Villa. The old town also includes a huge fortress, which occupies the first place among the sights of Ibiza Town, which also includes the Cathedral of Santa Maria. Since its construction in the 14th century, it has towered majestically above the rooftops of the island’s capital and offers a wonderful view of the city, which quickly makes you forget the sometimes strenuous ascent. The numerous narrow streets and squares of Ibiza Town are lined with many restaurants that add to its charm. Those interested in culture will find contemporary art at the Museu d’Art Contemporani and can learn about the Phoenician-Punic influence at the old Puig des Molins burial site and the Museu Puig des Molins.
Ses Salines Nature Reserve
Ses Salines Nature Reserve, Image: lunamarina / shutterstock In the south of the island is the Ses Salines nature reserve, one of the most beautiful areas of Ibiza, which has been a nature reserve since 2001. The total area of the nature reserve is 16,000 hectares, of which 3,000 hectares are land and 13000 hectares are sea. Many different species of migratory birds take a break in the area on their long journeys and offer ideal conditions for ornithologists to pursue their hobby. In terms of fauna, the local posidonia was added to the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1999. With the Torre de Sal Rossa, built in the 16th century, visitors can expect a historic building in the nature reserve. It was built on a hill to protect against pirate attacks and offers a wonderful view of the beach. Ses Salines has its origins as a salt mining area, as evidenced by the many salt pools next to the partly unpaved hiking trails. The Ses Salines Nature Park combines marshes and rocky landscapes as well as beaches and forests that invite you to explore.
Archaeological site of Se Caleta
A visit to Sa Caleta in Ibiza is especially interesting for friends of archaeology to learn about the history of the island. The old Phoenician settlement of Sa Caleta was found in the 1980s and declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1999. On the four-hectare site, there are ruins that have been dated to the 7th century BC. The excavated remains of the walls show the outlines of the houses very well and allow an insight into the everyday life of the people of that time.
Watchtower Torre des Savinar
Torre des Savinar, Image: Aleksandr Stezhkin / shutterstock The Savinar Tower towers majestically on the coast of Ibiza and is located right next to the magical rock of Es Vedra. Due to its exposed position near the airport, the tower can be seen as soon as you land and is a popular tourist destination during your stay on the island, as it offers excellent views of Es Vedra, Cala d’Hort and even the neighbouring island of Formentera . It owes its nickname Torre del Pirata (Pirate Tower) to its protective function against pirate attacks in the 18th century. To reach the tower, a walk from the parking lot along the cliffs to the watchtower must be planned.
Rocky island of Es Vedra
Es Vedra at sunset, Image: mRGB / shutterstock The rocky island of Es Vedra, which rises 382 meters out of the water directly in front of the Torre des Savinar, is surrounded by many myths and legends. Some believe that the rock formation is the last visible part of the sunken Atlantis or that it is home to the sirens from the legend of Odysseus. According to another theory, its topography is intended to help UFOs with navigation, which are said to have already been sighted. A priest reported on beings surrounded by the light that he claims to have encountered. Tourists who have a thing for the mythical and extraterrestrial should consider visiting the island.
Can Marca stalactite cave
For holidaymakers who want to escape the Spanish sun and the hustle and bustle of the tourist strongholds for a short time, the stalactite cave Can Marca offers a retreat to enjoy the peace and quiet in the underground cave. The illuminated stalactites and stalagmites take visitors into another world on their tour of the stalactite cave. It is located in the bay of Puerto de San Miguel and used to serve as a smuggler’s cave for prohibited goods such as tobacco or alcohol. Even today, the smugglers’ markings can be seen on the walls, which served them to orient themselves in the dark.
Sant Rafel de Sa Creu
Souvenir hunters should plan a visit to Sant Rafel de Sa Creu. This tranquil little town in the centre of Ibiza is famous for its pottery. In the workshops, the methods of ancient pottery tradition are still used to produce the highest quality clay art objects. Holidaymakers interested in handicrafts have the opportunity to take part in a tour of the workshops and buy one or two souvenirs.
Las Dalias Hippy Market
Information about the hippie market:
Address:
Carretera de San Carlos, s/n, 07850 San Carlos, Islas Baleares, Illes Balears, Spain
Opening hours:
Saturday: 09:00–21:00
Telephone:
+34 669 44 92 24
In the 1960s and 1970s, hippie culture arrived in Ibiza, as they were able to live out their way of life freely on the Balearic island. In the following years, they settled in Ibiza and shaped the openness on the one hand, but also the debauchery for which the island became famous. The Las Dalias hippy market in San Carlos is a relic of that time and takes visitors back to 1968. There is a boisterous atmosphere at the market, which is perfectly accompanied by live music. Mainly handmade jewelry and handbags are offered. Ibiza has the best campsites in Spain thanks to the hippies.
Limassol is a port city on the southern coast of Cyprus and the second largest city after the capital Nicosia. Limassol is located in the bay of Akrotiri and is an important tourist and economic center. The city took this position especially after the Turkish invasion in 1974 . As a result of the division, the republic lost the touristically important cities of Famagusta as well as the trading center Kyrenia. Many Cypriots of Greek origin moved to Limassol at that time and settled in the north of the city. As a result, the number of inhabitants doubled and it gained its important position today.
Molos Promenade in Limassol, Image: Ksenija Toyechkina / shutterstock Limassol has not always been a tourist center. Anyone visiting Limassol today may feel as if they are in two different cities. On the one hand, there is the beach district, which has been redesigned for tourists, with highly polished hotels, clubs and its beach promenade. In addition to the luxury hotels, there are many cafés, restaurants and the extensive promenade with the two modern harbours. It should come as no surprise that most tourists flock here.
Ancient Limassol and its cultures
If you leave the tourist center, you will quickly find yourself in the old town. Some of the buildings here are over 800 years old, historic alleys and typical Mediterranean low-rise buildings invite you to take a walk. Away from the tourist hotspot, Limassol presents itself credibly Cypriot and genuine. The eventful history of the island shapes the city. In addition to the population of Greek origin, many Turks, Lebanese, Armenians and Russians have also settled and bring their own cultural customs with them. These include the Turkish Quarter, one of Limassol’s most popular attractions. Many of the Cypriots of Turkish origin left the city after the partition. However, their quarter with its oriental buildings was not destroyed or disfigured by the Greeks. Instead, people continue to maintain the buildings. Tea rooms and oriental architectural details make up this part of the city.
The beaches of Limassol
Limassol has several beaches. The beach promenade, which has been modernized and spruced up for tourists, begins at the marina in the southwest of Limassol. Akti Olympion Beach is several kilometers long and consists of two parts: A Beach and B Beach. Dogs are allowed at A Beach. Both are clean and family-friendly beaches for city visitors. Apart from that, there are several natural beaches around Limassol. About 8 kilometers from the city and accessible via several hiking trails is Lady’s Mile Beach. Limassol has ideal weather conditions for swimming and water sports almost all year round.
Historical ruins off Limassol, Image: kirill_makarov / shutterstock If you are mainly interested in old buildings and architecture, there is a lot to discover in Limassol. The city’s cultural program includes the stronghold of Kolossi, built around 1210 by Frankish knights, located a few kilometers outside the city. The neighbouring church of Agios Eusthathios served as the castle chapel. Visitors can inquire about the history of the city at the Archaeological Museum of Lamissol. The exhibition ranges from the early history of the Neolithic Age to the end of the Eastern Roman Empire. The museum is located north of the zoo. The Medieval Museum is located in the castle, a fortification built in the 13th century on the remains of an older fortress. In 1191, Richard the Lionheart married Berengaria of Navarre here. The wine museum illustrates the 5500-year-old history of viticulture in the area. Other attractions include the Cathedral of Agia Napa and the monastery church of Panagia Karmiotissa. Limassol is also a student city, so it offers a lively pub and cultural scene. https://youtu.be/3Du0JFSzupU
Surroundings of Limassol
Outside the city rises the Troodos, where you can visit pine forests, waterfalls, old bridges and small villages. The surrounding area is also famous for its many vineyards. The wines of this region are popular among connoisseurs and are considered to be of high quality. The hikes in the Troodos Mountains can be combined with wine tastings. However, the fine wines have their price. On a hill by the sea is the archaeological site of Kourion with its ancient buildings: a forum, a bathing establishment, two basilicas and many houses. The finds are presented in the associated museum.
Off the coast of Thailand, surrounded by white sandy beaches and blue sea water, there are countless small island groups that are suitable for Thailand island hopping and that could not be more contrasting. Off the west coast of the South Asian country, the islands of the Andaman Sea are quite scattered. It includes Phuket, Koh Lanta and Koh Libong. On the east side, in the Gulf of Thailand, other island groups are lined up, such as the famous holiday island of Koh Samui, which is known worldwide for its beautiful palm beaches. Close to the border with neighboring Cambodia are the islands of the Koh Chang Archipelago. Koh Mak is part of the archipelago – a real insider tip, away from mass tourism.
The exciting adventure of Thailand island hopping begins in the Thai city of Trang. From the airport, we continue by bus to the port. Here, the longtail boats typical of Thailand are already lined up. They transport hundreds of passengers every day to the small dream islands in the Andaman Sea.
Koh Hai
The first destination of this island hopping Thailand trip is Koh Hai. The small island has a four-kilometre-long sandy beach where countless coconut palms grow. A beautiful backdrop that gets you in the mood for the upcoming holiday. Relaxed, we continue to the neighboring island of Koh Kradan. There is a unique underwater world here that encourages visitors to snorkel and dive. The shimmering coral reefs are an indescribable sight that can be enjoyed to the fullest from aboard the ship. By the way, the community regularly organizes weddings under water.
Koh Mook
Koh Muk, Image: Arnon Polin / shutterstock The next destination of the trip is Koh Mook. The island is known for its Emerald Grotto. The Emerald Cave is a 20-meter-long sea grotto that shimmers in the most beautiful shades of green. A unique sight that you can experience by swimming or kayaking! Other dream destinations for island hopping through the Andaman Sea are: Koh Libong, Koh Taking and Koh Laolian. The latter is known for its twin rocks, which rise imposingly from the sea and are an often photographed holiday motif. They are part of Mu-Ko-Phetra Park, a national park spread over a total area of 500 km² along the coast. A successful end to the trip is the last destination, the 12 km² island of Koh Sukorn. Around 3,000 people live here, spread over four small villages. Immerse yourself in the tranquil everyday life of the hospitable islanders, who live mainly from fishing and vegetable cultivation. On the paradisiacal sandy beach of Koh Sukorn, the holiday ends in a relaxed way before boarding the plane back home.
The islands in the Gulf of Thailand
Ko Samui
Ko Samui, Image: Marc Stephan / shutterstock The Gulf of Thailand is spread over a total area of 320,000 km², as a marginal sea in the Pacific Ocean. The Gulf is surrounded by the coasts of Thailand, Malaysia, Cambodia and Vietnam. The Gulf of Thailand is home to popular holiday islands, including the world-famous holiday island of Ko Samui. Ko Samui is the second largest island in the country and delights visitors with palm-fringed beaches and a breathtaking rainforest. There are countless accommodations on the island, including some luxury resorts. Chaweng Beach is known for its distinct nightlife. Visit the Buddhist temple complex Big Buddha, which is one of the most modern in the world. The oversized Buddha towers over the complex and shines in the sunlight – a unique sight. Not far away is another temple complex. Plai Laem is also worth a visit! If you prefer to explore the island culinarily, you should visit the nightly snack market in the Fisherman’s Village in Bophut. The shopping street is another top attraction on Ko Samui. From Ko Samui, continue to the surrounding destinations: Ko Tao, Ko Samet, Amphone Ko Chang, and Phu Quoc. Each island is a dream in itself and sets its own accents.
The islands of the Koh Chang archipelago
The archipelago is located on the far east coast of Thailand. Koh Chang is the third largest island in Thailand and the largest in the archipelago. It is the first destination of the trip. Only half an hour from the mainland is the small port of the island. On Koh Chang you can expect a lush green jungle and azure blue sea. At White Sand Beach there are large holiday home complexes with direct access to the beach. Rent a scooter and explore the island on your own. The islands of the Koh Chang Archipelago are located in the Mu Ko Chang National Park. The island reserve has designated jungle hiking trails and several places for fantastic snorkeling tours. The island is just the right destination for active holidaymakers! From the main island, excursions to the surrounding, smaller islands are possible. These include Koh Lao Ya, which is known for its crystal clear waters and colorful coral reefs. The island is located 2.5 hours from Koh Chang and is visited daily outside the rainy season. A visit to Koh Khlum is steeped in history. Years ago, a bloody naval battle between the Thai and French navies took place on the island. But the detour to Koh Khlum is also worthwhile for diving. The last destination of the trip is the distant island of Koh Kood. It is the fourth largest island in Thailand and is home to countless waterfalls, flowing streams, mountains and tropical forests. A special destination to complete your Thailandholiday island hopping. The most famous waterfall on the island is Nam Tok Klong Chao – a popular destination. The waterfall consists of three levels and is embedded in a wonderful landscape. The lake basin of the waterfall offers a refreshing cooling.
Butjadingen is a peninsula in the far northwest of Lower Saxony, which is becoming increasingly popular with tourists. This is mainly due to the charming landscape, which was completely unknown to many visitors until then. The exciting thing is that Butjadingen is surrounded by various bodies of water. The North Sea, Jade and Weser together form a natural border.
The Land Beyond the Jade
Oberfeuer Preusseneck, Image: juerginho / shutterstock The Butjadingen peninsula was formed by storm surges. Numerous villages, meadows and fields broke off and were carried away by the sea. The worst storm surge was the one at Christmas 1717. Many people died. The island was first settled in the Middle Ages. The inhabitants of the Frisian tribe of the Butjadinger gave the island its name. For a long time, the small Wadden Sea peninsula belonged to the Frisian municipality of Rüstringen, which was a member of the Frisian Seelands. Later, Butjadingen belonged to Bremen, then to Oldenburg. In 1853, the Grand Duchy of Oldenburg concluded the Jade Treaty with the Kingdom of Prussia. Prussia needed land for the construction of a war port on the North Sea. The new port was built in today’s Wilhelmshaven. In the 19th and 20th centuries, there were repeated reform laws and new community mergers.
Butjadingen now belonged to the greater municipality of Wesermarsch. It was not until 1936 that the separate, independent municipality of Butjadingen was founded. During World War II, the peninsula was occupied by Canadian troops. After the war, Butjadingen was under British military administration and was naturalized into the newly founded state of Lower Saxony . Today, Butjadingen is part of the Wadden Sea National Park and welcomes guests from all over the world. There are several campsites, holiday apartments and smaller hotels on the peninsula. Those seeking relaxation can recharge their batteries in untouched nature, close to the water.
Exciting excursion destinations and leisure tips in Butjadingen
Morseer Mühle, Image: Harald Lueder / shutterstock The Langwarder Val Gardena is the perfect place for bird watching. On the four-kilometre-long circular hiking trail and the nature discovery trail, visitors can watch countless waders in search of food. The excursion is suitable for families with children and nature lovers alike. On footbridges and bridges it goes up to the Vorderdeich. Here you can observe the alternation of low and high tide particularly well. Several observation stands are ideal for a short break. There are interactive information boards that bring visitors closer to the special Wadden Sea habitat with all its animals and plants. Permanently installed binoculars allow you to take a closer look at shelduck goose, seagull and co. If the information is not enough for you, visit the Fedderwardersiel National Park House. Here, guided tours through the salt marshes of the Langwarder Groden take place regularly. But the museum is also worth a visit. It brings you closer to the idea of nature conservation and interesting facts about the UNESCO World Heritage Site. Water frogs love a visit to the Aqua Mundo adventure pool. The tropical excursion destination is an absolute must, especially for families! Slides, Crazy River and the 29 degree wave pool guarantee pure water fun. Parents can take a break with aqua sports or a visit to the sauna. Warm temperatures, water and South Seas feeling round off the visit appropriately. In search of the original, visitors to the Butjadingen peninsula sooner or later end up at the idyllic shrimp cutter harbour of Fedderwardersiel. Freshly caught fish, restaurants prepare regional delicacies and excursion steamers go out to the open sea. Another highlight for visitors are the harbour concerts. From April to October, maritime sounds can be heard on Sundays at eleven o’clock. Other events also take place throughout the year at the harbour of Fedderwardersiel. A highlight is certainly the Krabbenkutter Regatta and the Culinary Autumn. Take a look at the St. Laurentius Church in Langwarden. This is where the oldest organ in Butjadingen is located. It was built in 1650 by Hermann Kröger and Berendt Hus in elaborate manual work. A few years later, the pedal towers were added. The organ is largely original and is known for its spring-laden construction and unique sound. By the way, the church tower served the well-known German mathematician Carl Friedrich Gauss as a survey point during his research. He is considered the prince of mathematics and the surveyor of our world. Art also plays an important role on the Butjadingen peninsula, as a walk along the promenade from Burhaven to Fedderwardersiel proves. Here, seven German artists created works from natural materials such as wood, metal, stone and marble. The Galerie am Wehlhamm in Ruhwarden, on the other hand, shows handicrafts and paintings by renowned North German artists. The owners of the gallery regularly organize vernissages, readings, lectures and exciting seminars. In addition, the Gezeiten art and culture weeks have been held since 1986. The annual series of events on the island is all about creativity, art and painting. A bad weather tip is a visit to the Butjadingen play barn. The 3,000 m² indoor playground makes children’s hearts beat faster! Whether climbing fun on the mountain, racing on the go-kart track or children’s disco with Fiete and Fietje – a visit to the Butjadinger play barn is peppered with highlights all year round. Several children’s entertainers provide a colourful annual programme. Baking pizza, making candles and jumping on the trampoline – there’s always something going on here!
“The Green Emerald of the North Aegean”. Nothing more and nothing less is the name of the Greek island of Thassos in the Aegean Sea. And indeed, those who dare to travel to the island will be impressed by the variety of possibilities that can be discovered here on a trip. Beautiful coastlines combined with dense forests, archaeological centers and a typical touch of Greek culture. In recent years, Thassos has developed into an insider tip next to the well-known Greek islands such as Crete, Mykonos or Rhodes and yet has the advantage that the island is not nearly as touristy as the neighboring islands.
One reason why Thassos has not really been populated by German tourists in recent years is probably the fact that the island does not have its own airport. The island is approached by boat and surprises at first sight with its high mountains, which stretch over the entire island, which, by the way, has a diameter of about 24 kilometers. Just because German tourists have tended to stay away here so far, however, one should not expect that there is no infrastructure. On the contrary, the roads are very well developed and hotels are spread all over the island. On the other hand, there are no classic strongholds here, where the hotel barracks are lined up. Things are a little quieter on the Emerald Isle, and that’s what most guests appreciate. https://youtu.be/ky2g-WQHLeM
Limenas – The capital of Thassos
The island’s capital Limenas, Image: Balate Dorin / shutterstock Limenas, on the other hand, is also the center of the island. People already settled here in ancient times and so most of the hotels are spread over the city. However, there are also many accommodations in different price ranges to be found in other parts of the island. Particularly recommended and authentic are stone houses, which are rented out by locals in the season and can otherwise be found everywhere on the island. So there is no shortage of travel options on Thassos, nor of infrastructure nor of accommodation. In recent years, tourism has become more important here and yet the island has been able to retain its charm by not arbitrarily sacrificing parts of the wonderful nature for tourism. On the contrary, here you live in harmony with the tourist buildings and find ways to preserve nature.
Beach, sun and nature on the Greek island of Thassos
Salaria Beach, one of the most beautiful beaches in Greece, Image: Porojnicu Stelian / shutterstock Since the island has a particularly terrible vegetation, holidaymakers on the island can also enjoy all the dishes from Greek cuisine. In the city’s restaurants and taverns, classics such as olives and sheep’s cheese naturally play a special role, and seafood dishes are also recommended, which are usually actually caught on site. The majority of the restaurants can be found in the capital, but classic taverns with fragmentarily translated menus can be found all over Thassos. In all parts of the island there are also various natural beauties. Of course, the beaches should be mentioned first. They all have the finest turquoise water to offer and the sand quality of the beaches on Thassos is also worth mentioning.
Skala Rachoni Beach
A special insider tip is the Skala Rachoni Beach. The long beach at the end of the village of the same name is known for its tranquility and is also worth the small trip if you have your own accommodation at the other end of the island. At Astrida Beach there are usually only a few vacationers – but care directly from the locals. On a holiday on the island, however, each of the beaches should get the attention of a visit. Due to the different vegetation on Thassos, you are also invited to one or the other visit. Hiking in the mountains is a great option away from the beach holiday. After 1200 meters of altitude up Mount Ipsario, I get a unique view of the island. If you like hiking, you can also take a look at the mountain village of Kastros, where the inhabitants still live very primitively. One of the clear natural treasures is also the dragon’s cave. This is where the first settlers of Thassos are said to have found refuge after arriving on the island.
Archaeological treasures on Thassos
The settlement of Thassos dates back many centuries, as can be seen in one or the other place in the capital. Ruins from various eras can be found on Thassos, some of which date back to the great heyday of the Greek Empire. Friends of architecture should also pay special attention to a monastery on the island dedicated to the Archangel Michael. The Archangelou Monastery is one of the cultural highlights of the island and can be explored at fixed times. So Thassos has a lot to offer despite its modest size. The varied possibilities on the northernmost island of Greece and the fact that the island is not yet completely developed by tourism are just a few arguments for a trip.
The most important questions about Thassos
How to get to Thassos?
Thassos does not have its own airport. You land in Kavala by plane. After a few minutes you will reach the ferry port. The crossing to Thassos takes about 40 minutes.
Located in the Aegean Sea, Thassos is the northernmost Greek island. It is just under seven kilometres from Kavala, the point of arrival by plane from Germany.
It takes quite a bit of imagination if you want to imagine the numerous pieces of wall, remains of columns and piles of stones on Crete as an original site of antiquity. In any case, a travel guide is helpful to find your way around the small and large archaeological excavation sites. In addition, there should be an interest in the old cultures, life traditions and history. This also includes the tourist attraction Knossos. For the majority of holidaymakers in Crete, a visit to Knossos is a must. Everyone knows Knossos somehow, even if it’s only from hearsay. Even in the smallest village of Crete there are postcards and posters to buy. There is a flood of books and pictures from the historic Minoan palace. This is located about 8 kilometers south of Heraklion, the capital of the island of Crete. There, the streets around the excavation site are lined with countless souvenir shops. There are even replicas of famous finds for sale. This makes a visit to the Heraklion Archaeological Museum and the palace in Knossos all the more interesting.
The throne room in the Minoan Palace, Image: Heracles Kritikos / shutterstock The Minoan palace and complex existed some time before the known ancient era. The palace complex is one of the most important prehistoric monuments. Knossos was probably already settled in the period between 7,000 and 3,000 BC. The original palace complex was possibly destroyed by an earthquake around 1,700 BC. A second palace, called the Theatre of Knossos, was built on its ruins. In the Mycenaean script of the 14th century BC, the place is described as “Konoso”. The palace complex suffered its final destruction around 1350 BC due to a devastating fire. The Palace of Knossos is shrouded in many legends, such as the Labyrinth of the Minotaur and the story of Icaros and Daidalos.
Historical sensation
Image: Kiev.Victor / shutterstock The Minoan palace in Knossos is probably the most visited attraction on the island of Crete and is located about 5 kilometers south of Heraklion near the Keratos River. According to legend, King Minos’ labyrinth was located in Knossos, in which he held the Minotaur, a hybrid creature of bull and man, in captivity. 100 years ago, no one thought that long before the Greek era of Europe began, there was already a highly developed culture. The excavation of the palace was a sensation that shed new light on the history of Crete. The remains of the important palace stand on a very large area of 75 hectares. Only part of it can be entered by the public. The palace of Knossos had at least 1200 rooms, which were located on 5 levels. It is believed that in the heyday of the Minoans, more than 100,000 people resided in the palace and in the surrounding area. The large number of rooms was probably used for economic and esoteric occasions.
Palace tour
The food was stored in these containers, Image: Banet / shutterstock Visiting the Minos Palace of Knossos is quite confusing and tedious, especially if you don’t have a good guide with you. The palace can be freely viewed by visitors. There is also the option of taking part in a variety of guided tours in German and English. It is enough to give the staff a good tip (10 euros) and join a group. The necessary restorations will still take a lot of time. For this reason, some parts of the palace area are inaccessible. However, the publicly accessible area is still very large. On a tour of the palace complex, you will first reach the west courtyard with round shafts that may have served as sacrificial sites. On the right side there are frescoes depicting life-size sacrificial bearers. When you are inside the palace walls, you can see on the left the southern Propylaea with its columns in white. In the courtyard is the throne room in the northwest corner. It has frescoes depicting griffins. The central courtyard is the heart of the Palace of Knossos. In the east wing are the royal private apartments. The courtyard with its stone water pipes, in which rainwater was collected, collected and drained into the earth via pipes. https://youtu.be/4XJd88cTRsU
Tips for getting there and visiting
The Palace of Knossos is easy to find, because the signage of the route is very good. There are plenty of free but also paid parking spaces on the premises and a few meters away there are also restaurants and taverns.
Admission: 15 euros (in combination with the Museum Heraklion 16 euros), reduced 8 euros Opening hours: In the summer months from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m.
A taxi or bus line 2 takes travelers to the palace. Different travel times must be observed, which depend on the season. You can find out about these on site. In summer, Crete is of course full of tourists, so the morning is worth a visit to Knossos. It also avoids the blazing midday heat. The Minoan palace is a highlight of Crete, especially for those interested in the history of the island. The tour lasts about 3 hours. In addition to the palace, it is also worth visiting the Heraklion Archaeological Museum. More information about the Minoans can be found http://www.minoer.net/befunde/architektur/palaste/knossos.
Places of interest outside the Minoan palace
The street in front of the palace entrance is home to some large and small souvenir shops and plenty of gastronomy. The restaurants are often equipped with free Wi-Fi. So don’t miss out on visiting Knossos if you are spending your holidays in Crete.
