All about travel

Ghana: between safari, tropical forest and miles of dream beaches

Ghana

PatrickJullien

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15. February 2023

Ghana: between safari, tropical forest and miles of dream beaches

The West African state of Ghana is attracting more and more tourists, and there is a reason for that. The country, which has a tropical climate, is located on the Atlantic Ocean. Bathing holidays on dream beaches are therefore possible in Ghana all year round.

In addition, guests can explore the tropical forests in the national parks, including their breathtaking flora and fauna. In contrast to many other African countries, the political situation in Ghana is considered stable. Since the official language of the country is English, there are no language barriers for the majority of tourists. The locals speak almost 80 different languages and dialects, but they all understand English. This makes it all the easier to immerse yourself in the culture of the country: the inhabitants of the country are considered open-hearted, fun-loving, helpful and honest.

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The capital Accra: first steps in Ghana

Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park, Ghana — The Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park in Ghana’s capital Accra, Image: Sura Nualpradid / shutterstock

With almost 2,400,000 inhabitants, Accra is not only the largest city in Ghana, but also the capital. In total, Ghana, a country about the size of Great Britain, has around 31 million citizens. Accra is located in the very south of the country, with access to the Atlantic Ocean. Founded in the 15th century, the city was located on an important maritime trade route for a long time. At the National Museum, visitors can learn all about the country’s culture and pre-colonial history. Ghana is rich in mineral resources, especially gold. For this reason, Ghana is also known as the Gold Coast. In the National Museum, numerous exhibits made of pure gold can be seen.

Christiansborg in Accra — Christiansborg, Image: Truba7113 / shutterstock

These are both everyday objects, such as gold weights, and works of art, such as sculptures. For a long time, Ghana was a British crown colony. The Independence Arch was built on the occasion of the country’s independence in 1957. This is just as worth seeing as the Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park with mausoleum. The park is dedicated to Kwame Nkrumah, who initially distinguished himself as an independence fighter and is still considered the founding father of the Ghanaian state. If you want to learn more about the history of the country, you should visit Christiansborg. Built in 1652, the castle is also known as Osu Castle. In the past, Portuguese slave hunters stayed here, who landed on the Gold Coast to capture people destined for slavery and ship them to sugar plantations on the Danish Virgin Island. Later, Christiansborg was the seat of the British governor.

Today, Christiansborg is the seat of Ghana’s government. The nearby Cape Coast Castle houses a museum on the history of slavery, which has been very formative for Ghana. Cape Coast Castle was built in 1637 and is part of a chain of 35 forts built on the Gold Coast. Since 1979, the building has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Other forts, such as the São Jorge da Mina, can be found in the city of Accra, and also outside, always along the coastal strip.

Eye to eye with large animals: Safaris in Ghana

Ghana has no less than 16 national parks. In addition, there are a whole series of reserves. The best conditions for safaris. Mole National Park was established in 1971 as the country’s first national park. With an area of 4840 square kilometers, it is also the largest. It is located in the northwest of the country in a savannah landscape. Visitors can experience 93 different species of animals: lions, buffaloes, elephants, leopards, monkeys and jackals are just a few of them. In addition, around 300 bird species settle here. Guided tours are offered in the park, tourists can stay overnight in lodges.

The Digya National Park is much richer in vegetation, as it is located in the humid delta of the Volta reservoir. Digya National Park is particularly known for its elephant and leopard population. Fish lovers will also get their money’s worth here, which can be observed in the Volta reservoir. Tourists can rent a canoe at the lake, or take a classic steamboat trip across the lake.

Impressive flora

The Kakum National Park is located in the south of Ghana and is quite manageable at 350 square kilometers. Here, the focus is less on the animals and more on the tropical rainforest. The Canopy Walkway is a treetop walk that is unique in Africa and was stretched between huge trees of the rainforest. At a height of 45 metres, visitors can experience the foreign flora of the rainforest. With a little luck, some rare animals can also be encountered. These include the lion monkey, a special species of monkey, the forest elephant and the creeping cat.

In the land of waterfalls

Axim, Ghana — Beach in Axim, Image: Gerhard Pettersson / shutterstock

Hardly any other country has as many impressive waterfalls as Ghana. A visit to Boti Falls, a twin waterfall, in Manya Krobo, in the east of the country, is particularly worthwhile. Also worthwhile is a visit to the Kintampo Waterfalls, which rush over rock formations in the center of Ghana. The Kintampo Waterfalls are 70 meters high and divided into three levels.

You should also not miss the Tagbo Falls, which can be explored on a hiking tour. From the village of Liati Woti, it takes just under three hours to hike up Mount Afadjato. At 885 meters high, this is the highest mountain in Ghana. From here you have a wonderful view down to the Volta reservoir. We descend through the tropical forest to the 60-meter-high Tagbo Falls.

Relaxing beach holiday in Ghana

After so much adventure, the pristine white sandy beach in front of crystal clear water in Ghana invites you to take a break. One of the most famous beaches is that of Bute. Miles of beach walks, where you hardly meet a person, are on the program here. There are a lot of beach bars at Krokobite Beach. Winneba Beach near Accra looks romantic with its fishing port.

Cities in the Caribbean

Caribbean

PatrickJullien

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15. February 2023

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On holiday on one of the beautiful Caribbean islands , many are attracted to sandy beaches, crystal clear water and a drink in hand. But when you’re visiting one of the tropical islands, whether it’s for a few days or more than a week, there’s so much more to explore than just your resort. After a few days of beach, sun and swimming, it’s time to explore the country. The cities on many Caribbean islands are rich in history and unique architecture. Get to know the people and culture of the country you have traveled to. An easy way to do this is to take a day trip to one of the big cities.

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St. John’s

St. John’s, the capital of Antigua , is a colorful jumble of wooden, brick, but above all concrete houses. Not a single building seems to be intact, not even the beautiful cathedral, which is in a never-ending reconstruction. Since there is not much in the way of tourist attractions, cruise tourists usually end up shopping in the boutiques on the waterfront. The more adventurous head to the public market, which is packed with fruits, vegetables, fish, and spices.

Nassau

Nassau in the Bahamas is entirely geared towards the many cruise tourists who arrive here every day. Jewels and fashion shops lie like pearls on a string on the main street, where friendly tugs will try to guide you to their bars. Outside, pastel-colored Downtown Nassau is surprisingly run-down and rather unattractive, but there are some interesting corners that exude their own melancholic charm. Several beaches are within walking distance, and those who want to take a look inside a Disneyfied resort complex should visit the gigantic Atlantis on the other side of the bridge on Paradise Island.

Bridgetown

Red Clock Tower Barbados — Famous red bell tower on top of the main guardhouse in Garrison Savannah. UNESCO Garrison Historic Area Bridgetown, Barbados, Image: Filip Fuxa/shutterstock

Bridgetown, the capital of Barbados , is actually a classic city, with lots of people, shops and offices. There are a few historic buildings here and there. Otherwise, the first row of shops in the direction of the port, where the large cruise ships arrive, is usually reserved for what their passengers apparently demand the most, such as souvenirs and jewelry. The further you get into the city, the more Bridgetown becomes a colorful, lively Caribbean capital full of friendly people, but without any notable sights other than the parliament building.

Kralendijk

The capital of Bonaire is not much more than a large village, but it still offers some interesting sights. Kralendijk is home to most of the accommodations on Bonaire and is located right in the middle of the island, making it a perfect base from which to explore the rest of the island. A really beautiful promenade follows the ocean in the middle of downtown: the best place to enjoy sunsets. Great house reefs offer excellent diving right in front of the hotels and dive shops, and good restaurants and cafes abound. The city may not be THE party location in the Caribbean, but you’ll most likely have a great time while you’re there.

Cienfuegos

Cienfuegos in Cuba is a cool port city. Although it is famous for its French architecture, which has earned it UNESCO World Heritage status, it cannot be compared to the splendor of Havana. Fortunately, this means that the hordes of tourists skip this simple city, so those interested in the “real Cuba” can explore the place at their leisure. The side streets behind the historic center of Parque José Martí have real character and charm. This is where people hang out and gather on their house steps and porches, and there are small shops. At the Malecón, which leads to the sprawling Punta Gorda neighborhood, you can enjoy the beautiful waterfront surroundings. Come here to enjoy Cuba and the Cubans in their lightness.

Havana

You probably have a clichéd idea of what Havana should be like: dilapidated colonial buildings, big old American cars cruising along tree-lined wide boulevards, old fat cigar-smoking men resting in the shade, young beautiful Latinos chilling on balconies while salsa music plays in the background. And yes, it is exactly like that – and even more. The old historic center, La Habana Vieja, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and has been finely spruced up to the delight of the many tour groups. Away from the tourist-appealing historic center, every street looks — and feels — like a movie set. Dilapidated houses with old American car wrecks parked in front of the door, children playing baseball in front of empty government shops, a complete absence of billboards, but worn walls painted with colorful revolutionary slogans (Socialismo o muerte = socialism or die) and pictures of national heroes like Che Guevara and José Martí. Strangely enough, you hardly see a picture of the Castro brothers.

Willemstad

Willemstad, the capital of Curaçao, is the largest (albeit only) city of the ABC Islands (Aruba, Bonaire and Curaçao). Its four historic districts are rather unusual in the Caribbean: their typical Dutch architecture has earned them the status of a UNESCO World Heritage Site. But the city has not yet fully exhausted this prestigious status. In each of these neighborhoods, perfectly restored houses stand next to crumbling buildings.

But this is by no means disappointing, but only illustrates Curaçao’s economic situation and prevents the feeling of being in an artificial, touristically perfect world. Each neighborhood has its own personality: the hyper-touristy Punda, the fast-gentrifying Dutch hipster ghetto Pietermaai, the lively Otrobanda and the historic Scharloo. Outside of these neighborhoods, Willemstad is more of a mix of suburbs, oil facilities, and nondescript beaches.

Planning your cycling holiday – how to make your adventure a success

Cycling holidays

PatrickJullien

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14. February 2023

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Planning your cycling holiday – how to make your adventure a success

Cycling holidays have gained significantly in popularity in recent years. More and more people have acquired a taste for cycling around the holiday region and getting a more intense experience. What sounds like a dream in theory, however, has some pitfalls in practice. Planning in particular plays a greater role on a cycling holiday due to the higher logistical requirements. This article explains how the project can nevertheless succeed smoothly and what measures make sense to achieve it.

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Enough space is the trump card

If you want to go on holiday with your car, you are already faced with a space problem. Especially when you want to travel with your family , every centimetre of space counts. Since there are also several bicycles to transport on a cycling holiday, the desperation is quickly complete. So where to put all the suitcases, bags and other items?

The solution for this is not inside the car, but on the roof. By making effective use of the entire surface of the car, there is enough space for people, bikes and luggage. Roof boxes for the car are quickly installed and provide more flexibility in just a few simple steps without having to make compromises. All you have to do is make sure that the permissible total weight is observed. Fully packed, nothing is missing and the focus can be on a relaxing holiday.

Observe regulations in the holiday country

In terms of regulations, each country has its own rules and laws. Since according to the old principle, ignorance does not protect against punishment, it is important to familiarize oneself with the respective circumstances in advance. Some countries, for example, stipulate that the bike must be equipped with reflectors and lights at all times of the day. In contrast, other states are much more liberal and do not set up binding rules. As a cycling holidaymaker, you can save a lot of nerves if there is clarity about the applicable laws.

The right clothing

Cycling holidays in the Alps — Cycling in the Alps, Image: Yevhenii Chulovskyi / shutterstock

Which clothing is the right one for a cycling holiday depends on the approach. A sporty cycling holiday, for example, has different requirements than occasional rides on an e-bike. But no matter what you choose in the end, it’s worth being prepared for different weather conditions and temperatures.

Especially in mountainous regions, there can be rapid changes in the weather with rapid drops in temperature . Even if the weather is sunny at the beginning of the tour, the weather forecast should be followed closely. This allows the equipment to be adapted accordingly, which significantly reduces the risk of unpleasant surprises.

Planning is important – the experience is more important

After all the pleas for conscientious planning, it still remains to be said that it is such a thing with the right planning. On the one hand, it is the basis for the success of the holiday. On the other hand, the appeal of a cycling holiday also lies in the uncertainty and adventure. It is therefore helpful not to plan every little detail completely. Often, it is enough to establish the rough data of a tour to find an appropriate challenge. Whether you take a different turn during the tour and explore other paths is usually not so decisive.

With the growth of the metaverse, the travel industry will also change noticeably

All about travel

PatrickJullien

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13. February 2023

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With the growth of the metaverse, the travel industry will also change noticeably

If you’ve been on the internet regularly lately, you’ve probably heard a lot about the rise of the metaverse : users can fully immerse themselves in this immersive VR world, connecting and interacting with other real people. Mark Zuckerberg has renamed his company “Meta” and wants to show the entire digital world that his world’s largest social media company is now fully behind this promising idea. Initially, Meta was only seen as a tool for increasing productivity for remote workers, but its features now go beyond these tasks. The impact of the metaverse will also find its way into the travel industry. Now let’s take a look at how our travel will change in the future as a result of these innovations…

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Interested parties can first explore a variety of places online

At present, we already have the opportunity to find out what others think about the place in question and how they experienced it before the actual booking. Websites like ours give practical and useful tips in most cases, which we are only too happy to use. But what if we had the opportunity to explore certain locations online for a longer period of time with the help of the metaverse or to spend a few days in these places if we felt like it?

Depending on how realistic and lifelike the new metaverse will be, you could also visit the place of your desire to explore the nightlife, for example, or other locations that you think you would like to visit on your trip.

Physical trips can be reserved for a few selected special trips

This could fundamentally change the dynamics of the travel industry, because one’s own personal trips will then be made into something that does not always have to be more expensive. For example, far fewer trips may be booked through the travel agencies concerned, which in turn will be forced to raise prices to compensate for the loss of the large quantities of services that are no longer purchased.

This will lead to physical travel quickly and primarily becoming the domain of those who have enough time and money to actually afford it. The rest of those willing to travel will have to make do with the adventures in the metaverse.

The non-travelers will still have formative experiences

For those who can’t afford to make the trip in person, or are simply too busy, or are prevented from doing so by disabilities or health issues, the metaverse will prove to be a kind of new lifeline. Because there you will be given the feeling of traveling together with friends or family, who may actually explore a wide variety of places in the real world. In this way, the problems of social isolation, boredom but also cabin fever can be avoided, because you will be able to virtually leave your own four walls.

Do you think that this kind of hybrid travel still sounds more like a dream that is a long way off? However, if you consider that a number of popular and daily activities have already been moved to the Internet without much friction, digital travel should soon become a reality. For example, we have replaced the cinema experience with Netflix, food is brought to our homes by a wide variety of food suppliers such as “Wolt” or “Lieferando” and many players no longer visit real casinos, but play in one of the countless online casinos that are open around the clock. It seems like the dream will soon become a reality, right?

Vacations could become a side hustle that you don’t have to wait for anymore

What happens to travelers who come home after two or three relaxing weeks and want nothing more than to sunbathe on a distant beach again? The return to everyday life after the most beautiful weeks of the year sometimes resembles a system shock that prompts many to immediately plan the next major short vacation. However, since this can take up to a year, this circumstance is depressing for most people who suffer from wanderlust. But even that fact could soon be a thing of the past, especially if the metaverse becomes what a number of leading industry experts predict.

After all, what would you do if you were offered the opportunity to go on vacation to one of the farthest corners of the world immediately after you came home from work, only to be back home in time for bedtime after a few hours? And if you feel like it, you can have these experiences over and over again. So you will actually be able to escape from the 08-15 cycle of daily life.

How will our health be affected by this?

It is certainly still a long time before we can definitively determine whether our health or well-being will be affected. However, it is clear that spending too much time on conventional social media often leads to feelings that manifest themselves in boredom, loneliness and jealousy. However, it remains to be seen what the effects of the metaverse will have on our well-being. One thing is certain, however: no matter how unusual and innovative the technology, it will not be able to surpass the attitudes and feelings of exploring the real world with friends or family.

Final Thoughts

Whether we agree with the concept of the metaverse or not, it looks very much like the rise of this new form of interpersonal existence will significantly change and influence our lives in the future. This technology is only at the beginning of its development and will certainly go through many different versions and iterations before a full VR journey to any place in the world will be possible, possibly even into the past. But it will certainly be exciting and interesting at the same time to observe how our traditional travel is influenced by this. We will continue to watch what is happening closely and will see how things will really be connected in the metaverse.

Oberjoch ski area

PatrickJullien

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11. February 2023

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Oberjoch is Germany’s highest ski and mountain village. The ski area of the Hindelang-Oberjoch mountain railways is a family-friendly ski resort in the Allgäu. Due to the altitude, the fantastic ski area is particularly snow-sure. Perfectly groomed ski slopes, rustic mountain huts and much more await winter sports guests.

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Ski-opening Oberjoch

The ski opening on the Oberjoch traditionally takes place before Christmas. The opening will be accompanied by a large show and supporting programme. In addition to morning pints with LIVE music and star guests, après-ski and a children’s programme are standard. Ski tests and pole training with World Cup runners as well as free taster courses are very popular with visitors. After opening, the lifts will be in operation daily. Depending on the snow conditions, the ski season runs until the beginning of April.

History of the ski area

Construction of the first T-bar lift began in Oberjoch in 1938. Commissioning took place in 1943. At that time, around 100 people per hour were transported over a length of 800 m. The lifts have been continuously expanded. In 2005, the opening of the Schneekinderland increased the attractiveness of the ski area for children and young people. The learning and activity area extends over 20,000 square meters. In 2015, a complete renovation was carried out at a cost of around 25 million euros. The Grenzwies, Wiedhag and Schwandenbahn lifts were converted into new 6- and 8-seater chairlifts with heated seats. With the new snow-making system, the entire ski area can be covered with artificial snow.

Up the mountain

A T-bar lift and four chairlifts lead up to the mountain. The ascent is possible from 08:30 a.m. The mountain station at an altitude of 1560 metres can be reached quickly by 6-seater chairlift or with the brand new 8-seater Schwandenbahn. Chairlifts with heated seats and weather protection hoods provide the necessary comfort. The facilities in Bad Hindelang-Oberjoch are in operation daily until 4:15 p.m.
The Schwandenbahn transports 2800 people per hour to the mountain station in about 1:50 minutes. Over a distance of 487 meters, 94 meters of difference in altitude are overcome.
The Wiedhagbahn is a 6-seater chairlift. In just under 4 minutes of driving time, 318 meters of altitude difference are conquered. The chairlift has a length of 1058 meters.
With the Grenzwiesbahn, the terminus can be reached in about three minutes. Over a distance of 885 m, 270 m difference in altitude is covered.
The Iselerbahn dates back to 2001. After a journey time of approx. 5:20 minutes, the mountain station of the chairlift at 1559 m is reached. Over a distance of 1443 m, 399 meters of altitude are overcome.
The transport capacity of the chairlifts is 2800 people per hour. The Schwandenbahn, Grenzwies and Wiedhagbahn are equipped with child safety and heated seats. The Schwandenbahn was the first eight-seater chairlift with a weather protection hood in Germany.
The ideal slope lift dates back to 1962. It is a T-bar lift. At a speed of 2 meters per second, it transports 988 people per hour to the mountain station at an altitude of 1254 m.

Down the mountain – slopes in Oberjoch

Skiing in Oberjoch, Image: streetflash / shutterstock

The difference in altitude of 460 m can be conquered downhill on more than 30 kilometres of slopes. There are plenty of ski slopes for beginners and professionals. Designated as blue, red or black, there are 11 easy, about 20 medium and 2 difficult kilometres of slopes. Ideally, all lifts are connected to each other via the slopes.

Stop for refreshments

On a perfect day of skiing, a stop for refreshments is a must. The Wiedhagalpe is only 150 m away from the mountain station of the Wiedhag mountain railway and is a popular meeting place for locals and guests. Other ways to fortify yourself are Erdinger Urweisse, Moorhütte and Gundalpe. Meckatzer Sportalp, Ochsenalpe, Joch Alpin or the Grenzwiesstuben complete the perfect ski trip.

Location and arrival of the ski area

The valley town of the ski resort is Bad Hindelang-Oberjoch. The exit from the A7 Ulm-Füssen motorway is Oy-Mittelberg. The ski area is still about twenty kilometers away from here. Paid and free parking is available. The car park directly at the Iselerbahn costs €5.00/day. Free parking is available at the entrances to the Wiedhag and Grenzwiesbahn. Guests from the Tannheimer Tal can reach the ski area via the Austrian Bundesstraße 199. From Sonthofen and Bad Hindelang, a winding pass road leads to Oberjoch. Within the village there are many possible entrances to the Oberjoch ski area.

Special features in the ski resort Oberjoch

As a family-friendly ski resort, there are discounted family tickets. The ski area is integrated into the Allgäu Glacier Card as part of the cross-regional ski passes. Slope highlights include freeride zones, night skiing and snow parks. With 45 kilometres of cross-country ski trails, Oberjoch also offers an attractive offer for cross-country skiers. This ranges from classic cross-country ski trails and skating trails to floodlit trails. Other offers in the ski area include ice skating and curling, horse-drawn sleigh rides, paragliding and toboggan runs. For guests there is a ski depot, ski rental and snowboard rental as well as cross-country skiing and touring ski rental.

Ski schools in Oberjoch

Qualified and experienced ski instructors offer alpine ski courses, snowboard courses and cross-country skiing courses. Ski equipment can be rented at the ski rental for a fee. From ski boots to helmets, there is the right equipment for unadulterated winter sports fun. The binding is adjusted individually by specialists. The latest models and tested skis are available for winter sports guests.

The Ziener Schneekinderland is part of the Hindelang-Oberjoch mountain railways. Fun and games await the little ones here. The offer includes a fairytale forest with animals, a snow carousel, igloos, children’s express and the magic carpet. In the ski school, the children learn in stages according to age and ability. Different terrains, steep wall curves, ski jump and slalom courses provide variety.

Result

Oberjoch is a cozy place in the middle of a breathtaking alpine panorama. Rustic huts complement the great landscape and complete the skiing holiday in the Oberjoch.
All lifts are connected to each other via the slopes. Oberjoch is the first choice, especially for a skiing holiday with children. There is also a lot to experience here away from the slopes.
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Discover the most beautiful destinations on four wheels – what you need to consider

Camping

PatrickJullien

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9. February 2023

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Discover the most beautiful destinations on four wheels – what you need to consider

Travelling through Europe by motorhome is a great way to explore different countries and landscapes flexibly and independently. It allows travelers to have unique travel experiences, giving them complete freedom to decide on destinations and schedules. This article presents recommended travel destinations as well as important tips about using a motorhome for long distances and what is best suited for a trip.

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Decisive criteria for renting a motorhome

A motorhome is available in different equipment and sizes. From small campervans to large motorhomes with integrated kitchen, bathroom and sleeping solutions. However, before deciding to rent a caravan, the requirements and needs should be clearly covered. Residents of our federal capital who want to rent a motorhome in Berlin can do so not only with a local rental company but also on the clear online platform Erento. This gives you the opportunity to choose the vehicles at your leisure.

Essential questions to ask yourself are the number of people, the necessary storage space for furniture and clothing, what equipment is desired and how much you are willing to spend. In addition, it is important to note that some legal regulations come into play when choosing a rental property. For example, there are regulations regarding weight and size restrictions, which may vary by country. It is also important to clarify insurance and liability of the rental car in advance to avoid surprises later.

Important requirements for the motorhome in detail

Size and capacity: Consider how many people need to be transported with the caravan and what space they need with their luggage. The motorhome must be large enough to accommodate all the important utensils and should still be compact enough to maneuver the vehicle comfortably through narrow streets and alleys.

Equipment: The equipment is essential for a long journey. What equipment is necessary for the next trip? A kitchen, bedroom and bathroom with a toilet should be included in the standard equipment. In addition, the motorhome should offer sufficient storage facilities and storage space.
Technical requirements: What technical solutions does the motorhome have to be equipped with? If the trip is more likely to go to the cold north, it is worth carrying a spare battery. In the south, on the other hand, you can use solar cells on the motorhome, which help to generate electricity during the day. Air conditioning is just as crucial, for the hot days.
Budget: What amount can be expected for the motorhome and what costs will be incurred for fuel? Motorhomes are available in a variety of different price ranges. From inexpensive entry-level models to exclusive luxury campers, the respective favourite can be selected. The rental agreement is important when making the purchase. This includes any special payments, deposits and other lump sums. The more precisely the contract is negotiated, the fewer pitfalls lurk in the event of a claim.

In addition, when choosing a motorhome, it is important to choose the right destinations and a good route for the upcoming period. While Europe offers an abundance of amazing holiday destinations, there are some that are particularly suitable for your next campervan holiday. In addition, the route should always be chosen so that the roads are suitable for the motorhome.

The most beautiful southern destinations for your next trip to Europe

Campervan Istria — Take advantage of the countless viewpoints along the coast in Istria , Image: epiximages / shutterstock

If you decide to take a trip along the seas, Croatia, Italy and Spain are the right place for you. The enchanting coasts, the beautiful beaches and the Mediterranean flair attract numerous campers every year. These countries are ideal for a motorhome trip, as there are motorhome pitches in almost every coastal town. In addition, you will get a multifaceted impression of different cultures, beaches and cities on the trip. From sandy beaches to gravel fills and shady green areas, everything is included on the trip. France is also a popular destination for motorhome holidaymakers. It offers an incredible variety of landscapes, from the beaches in the south to the vineyards in the east. Depending on the locality, the pitches are cheaper than in other countries and can be accessed without prior notice. Perfect for spontaneous vacationers.

A tip: If you end up at the sea on your trip to Europe from time to time, it is best to choose coastal roads for the trip. This view is priceless with the motorhome!

Enchanting lands in the north

The dramatic landscape of Norway, with its fjords and high mountains, is a must-see for any nature lover. The roads are well maintained and the scenery is simply incredible. There are numerous campsites and motorhome pitches on site that campers can use as they pass through the journey. We continue to Scotland. It’s another great destination for campers who love multifaceted natural spectacles. The Scottish landscape with its green hills and rugged coasts impresses numerous tourists every year and testifies to magnificent beauty. The campsites impress with first-class infrastructure and are located in the middle of the dignified landscape. A place to linger.

Finding the right destination for the camper

By taking into account the factors mentioned, the choice for the next destination can be ensured. When it comes to rent, the main thing is the fees and collateral, as well as a deposit and the insurance incurred. The countries described are just a few of the many great places that can be visited in Europe with a campervan. It is important to note that some countries have special rules and regulations for motorhome travelers and permits must always be obtained in advance. In addition, it is important to pay attention to the budget and equipment of the motorhome. Once all the legal framework conditions have been clarified and the destinations have been determined, nothing stands in the way of a European trip with the motorhome.

Larnaca – port city on the south coast of Cyprus

PatrickJullien

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9. February 2023

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Larnaca – port city on the south coast of Cyprus

The city of Larnaca is located in the southeast of the island of Cyprus. A little more than 50,000 inhabitants live on an area of about 32 km². Larnaca is one of the more modern cities in Cyprus and is therefore popular with tourists from all over the world.

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The history of the city

The earliest archaeological evidence in the area of the city dates back to the 13th century. century BC. At that time, the powerful city kingdom of Kition was located here, which owed its wealth mainly to the trade in bronze. Subsequently, the city changed hands several times. These include the Greeks with Alexander the Great, but also the Roman Empire. But even in modern times, Larnaca can boast an eventful history. In the 18th century, the city was developed into a large trading center and numerous European consulates built their headquarters here. Its importance increasingly dwindled in the course of the 20th century. It was not until the Turkish invasion in 1974 that the importance of the port city increased sharply again.

The sights of Larnaca

With more than 3000 years of eventful history, it is no wonder that Larnaca is home to numerous historically significant sights. First and foremost are the Archaeological Museum and the Pierides Museum , which give an overview of the finds of ancient times.

The Turkish fort is also worth mentioning. This was built in 1625 and overlays the walls of a Venetian fortification. Also in Turkish times, the Bekir Pasha Aqueduct was built, which was in operation until the 1960s.

Numerous sacred buildings characterize the cityscape. The church of Agios Lazaros dates back to the 9th century. Its numerous conversion phases are still visible today, even though large parts of the building were destroyed in a fire in 1970. Even older is the Panagia Angeloktisti, a Byzantine church built in the 6th century. The famous apse mosaic, which shows St. Mary, dates from this time.

Excursion destinations near the city

Just a few kilometers southwest of Larnaca is the Hala-Sultan-Tekke salt lake (also called Larnaca salt lake). It is named after the mosque of the same name, which was built in the 18th century. It is considered one of the most impressive Islamic sanctuaries in Cyprus. But not only the building itself and its furnishings, but also the location on the salt lake make a visit to the mosque unforgettable.

Larnaca also has a lot to offer for recreational divers. First and foremost is the wreck of the Zenobia , which lies in front of the city’s harbor. It is considered one of the best lines for divers, since depending on the athlete’s ability, goals can be achieved at different depths.

The city beach of Larnaca

Phinikoudes Beach, Larnaca — Phinikoudes beach, Image: MarinaDa / shutterstock

In the middle of Larnaca is the beach Phinikoudes. This name means “small palm trees” and goes back to the plants growing in the sand. The sandy beach, which is several hundred meters wide in places, can be used freely. Parasols and sunbeds can be rented for a fee. Along the beach there is a promenade that is over 500 meters long. Along this promenade there are numerous shops and restaurants that offer a wide range of local and international food. The beach promenade is regularly the scene of large festivals and events. During such major events, swimming on the beach is prohibited.

Luxury Honeymoon Destinations in Germany

All about travel

PatrickJullien

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9. February 2023

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Luxury Honeymoon Destinations in Germany

When it comes to planning the perfect honeymoon, finding the ideal location can be quite a challenge because there are so many options. For many bridal couples, Germany has not played a major role as a honeymoon destination so far. However, you will be pleasantly surprised when you take a closer look at the possibilities in Germany for your honeymoon. The Frisian Islands are home to some of the most beautiful beaches in Europe, while other destinations such as the Moselle Valley are surrounded by beautiful mountains. Take a look at the following lines and see if any of these destinations are a potential place for you to spend your perfect honeymoon.

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Rebuke

Baltic Sea island of Rügen — Rügen is one of numerous holiday highlights in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, Image: Sina Ettmer Photography / shutterstock

Rügen is the largest island in Germany and is located in the Baltic Sea. The nearest city is Stralsund, which is located on the mainland. There are several ways to visit the island, including a Private Jet or a boat trip. This way, you can make the trip there something you’ll remember for a lifetime. On Rügen is the Jasmund National Park, where you can explore and enjoy the magnificent landscape and the impressive forests with their ancient maple trees. The beaches are often deserted, so you and your loved one can spend time together undisturbed. Here you will also find the iconic white chalk cliffs that line the seafront.

On Rügen, you can enjoy the fantastic wellness facilities in one of the many resorts near the beach and get to know the excellent cuisine in some of the fine restaurants that can be found here. To top off the perfect day, you can take a sunset cruise and watch the sun go down as the sky fills with bright stars.

Moselle Valley

The Moselle Valley stretches in the southwest of Germany across Luxembourg and even as far as France. This region of Germany offers some of the most breathtaking scenery in Europe. Surrounded by vine-covered hills and fantastic castles, you feel like you’re in a fairy tale. Between the traditional villages and castles, a river meanders across the region. If you decide to visit the Moselle Valley Don’t forget to visit Eltz Castle, a fantastic castle located on a hill in the middle of green forests. For wine lovers, this region is home to the famous Riesling, which you can taste to your heart’s content.

Spreewald

Located about halfway between Dresden and Berlin, the Spree meanders through the countryside and creates a magical area full of romantic inns and huts. This is the perfect place to retreat to your honeymoon and spend a few intimate hours together. Apart from the magnificent surroundings, you can also explore the biosphere reserve in the region. You can rent a paddle boat or opt for the more traditional version of a wooden barge and explore on your own.

Berchtesgaden

Berchtesgaden is a small town on the border with Austria in southeastern Germany. If you are interested in a winter holiday, then you should definitely visit this mystical city. Here you will find your very own winter wonderland high above sea level, surrounded by snow-capped mountain ranges as far as the eye can see, with some of the most amazing hiking trails offering breathtaking views throughout the journey. If you’d rather make your honeymoon more adventurous, there are plenty of ski slopes and excellent restaurants to enjoy after a long day on the slopes. You can end your day by the fireplace with a glass of wine.

Rothenburg ob der Tauber

Rothenburg ob der Tauber is a city in the west of Bavaria that is increasingly becoming one of the most popular tourist destinations in all of Germany . This region offers a truly authentic German experience with cobbled streets, small German markets and half-timbered houses. There is hardly a more beautiful place for a romantic getaway with the partner you want to spend the rest of your life with. Nearby, you can explore the villages of Ansbach and Dinkelsbühl and enjoy traditional German dishes.

Sylt

Sylt is a German island in the north of the country, where there are beautiful beaches as far as the eye can see. If you want to do something during the day, then you are spoilt for choice. You can sail, windsurf, and even hike to test your skills on and off the water. If you want to take it a little easier, you can take a long walk along the beautiful coastline or hire a jet to get a bird’s eye view of the area. There are also a number of wellness centres that you can visit to really relax with your partner and Michelin-starred restaurants where you can dine deliciously.

The most beautiful beaches and places in Barbados

Caribbean

PatrickJullien

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7. February 2023

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The most beautiful beaches and places in Barbados

Barbados, the beautiful island in the Caribbean, offers numerous beaches and beautiful places to relax and visit.

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The most beautiful beaches in Barbados

Carlisle Bay

One of the most popular beaches is without a doubt Carlisle Bay. The bay is close to the capital city of Bridgetown and offers something for everyone. Active holidaymakers will find a wealth of water sports activities and beach equipment in the upper area, Brownes Beach. On the other hand, the Pebbles Beach section is a little quieter, where you can relax and enjoy the view of the incoming ships.

Foul Bay

An almost deserted paradise can be found in Foul Bay. This beautiful beach is located next to a forest and impresses with white powder sand, deep blue water and a quiet atmosphere. Only swimming is impossible here due to the strong current.

Bath Beach

A popular beach among locals is Bath Beach. On the east coast of Barbados there is no other beach that is suitable for swimming. Due to its large reef in front of it, this beach seems particularly protected. Picnic benches invite you to have a small snack and the beach also scores with its facilities with sanitary facilities.

Bottom Bay

If you like it a little more colorful, Bottom Bay is the right place for you. The beach is usually well visited. Here, vendors offer refreshments such as cool coconut water or coconuts. The beach owes its charm to the beautiful palm clusters and the long stone staircase that leads to the beach, among other things.

Enterprise

Despite its unusual name, Enterprise Beach is a recommended beach in Barbados. 230 meters of fine, white sand invite you to relax and jog. It is also known as Miami Beach and is very close to the fishing village of Oistins. Beautiful sunsets can be enjoyed on Enterprise Beach. Good swimmers can venture into the open sea on this beach. However, the beach is also ideal for families with children, as there is a sheltered area in the water where the little ones can splash and swim safely.

The most beautiful places in Barbados

Oistins Fish Market

In addition to the beaches, Barbados offers a number of interesting and beautiful sights. These include the Oistins Fish Market. The small fishing town on the south coast is known for its colourful market stalls and its cheerful hustle and bustle.

Animal Flower Cave

One of the most beautiful places in Barbados is, without a doubt, the Animal Flower Cave. This is a sea cave with a coral bottom, sea anemones and a natural rock pool. The view from the cave into the open sea is fantastic and it is not the only great viewpoint. The North Point near the cave offers beautiful views of the rocky coast and the open sea, and is also a good starting point for a walk along the coast.

Harrison’s Cave

Another popular cave is Harrison’s Cave, a stalactite cave that can be visited by electric car. In addition to stops to take pictures, you will learn interesting facts about the cave from the tour guide.

Manor House St Nicholas Abbey

St Nicholas Abbey is one of the last examples of Jacobean architecture. In the past, the mansion belonged to a sugar plantation, but today this building attracts numerous visitors from all over the world as one of the “Seven Wonders of Barbados”. In addition to the manor house, it is also worth visiting the garden, which has beautiful mahogany trees, boxwoods and avocado trees.

Hunte’s Garden

If you are interested in botany, you should definitely pay a visit to Hunte’s Garden. The botanical garden is located in the center of Barbados and invites you to take a relaxing stroll. The garden offers an enchanting mix of antiques and statues, exotic plants and classical music. Soft tones vibrate in the air in this garden and make the visit a unique experience.

Bridgestone

Last but not least, Bridgetown is one of the most beautiful places on the island. It is not for nothing that the old town has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2011. Among other things, the central square of the city, the National Heroes Square, is worth seeing. Here you will find the Parliament Buildings and the Nelson Monument, which was inaugurated in 1813. Broad Street is the main shopping street, where there are numerous department stores and shops. Bridgetown is also home to some important buildings of British colonial architecture.

Shanghai – the city of many skyscrapers

Asia
China

PatrickJullien

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7. February 2023

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Shanghai, the modern metropolis of millions, is the largest city in China with its almost twenty million inhabitants and has the largest port in the world. What is particularly impressive about the city are the many huge buildings and skyscrapers.

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The Shanghai Tower – above the rooftops of the city

The gigantic skyscraper is one of Shanghai’s most important landmarks. With a total height of 632 meters, it is the largest building in China and the third tallest building with the highest observation deck in the world. The tower has 128 floors plus five more floors located in the basement.

With the fastest elevator in the world, visitors can reach the observation deck on the 118th floor. floor at an altitude of 546 meters in less than a minute. Another viewpoint is located at 121. floor at an altitude of 562 meters and offers visitors a breathtaking view over the huge city and the many skyscrapers, which seem rather tiny and like toys with their height of at least 15 meters.

The Yu Yuan Garden – an oasis to relax in Shanghai

The over 400-year-old Yu Yuan Garden is one of the most famous gardens in the country and has even been on the list of monuments of China since 1982. It has been open to the public since 1961 and attracts not only a number of tourists every day, but also many locals who are looking for peace and relaxation here.

The park is about 20,000 square meters in size and divided into six areas with various halls, traditional buildings, landscaped ponds with goldfish, rock gardens, pavilions, bridges and a fascinating plant life. The oldest tree is said to be the gingko tree. It was planted with the creation of the garden over 400 years ago.

Also impressive is the limestone rock over twelve meters high with its caves and paths, as well as the heart of the garden, the jade stone, which is over three meters high and weighs five tons. It is not only an interesting photo motif because of its 72 holes, but also gets a magical appearance when an incense stick is held under the stone. So the smoke rises from all the holes. It looks like a unique fountain when water flows over the stone from above.

Just outside the entrance of the garden is Shanghai’s oldest teahouse, Huxinting, and is located in the middle of a large lake. It can be reached via a zigzag bridge, which was specially built to keep evil spirits away. The Chinese believe that ghosts can only move in a straight line. Also in front of the entrance to the garden is the Yu Yuan Bazaar with several stalls and souvenir shops.

The Jin Mao Tower – pure thrill

With its 88 floors, the skyscraper, which is over 420 meters high, is not one of the largest buildings in Shanghai, but it is no less exciting. The building was completed in 1998 and is equipped with about 20 escalators and more than 60 elevators. On the 57th floor, there is a swimming pool at a height of 250 meters, making it the highest swimming pool in a building in the world. Two elevators transport visitors to the 88th floor to the indoor viewing platform at a height of about 340 meters in just 45 seconds, which offers space for more than 1,000 guests with a size of about 1,500 square meters.

Outside the window front of the platform is a 60-metre-long and 1.20-metre-wide walkway. If you are brave, you can only walk along the footbridge attached to a rope and with climbing harnesses.

Another small highlight of the tower is the post office, which is also located on the 88th floor. This gives visitors the opportunity to send their loved ones a postcard with greetings directly from the viewing platform.

The Bund (Waitan) – the most famous waterfront in China

When visiting Shanghai, a walk along the almost three-kilometer-long waterfront should not be missed. It is the landmark and heart of the city and invites you to shop and linger while strolling with many shops and restaurants. The historic buildings along the bustling waterfront are just as impressive as the fascinating skyline on the opposite side of the river. Especially in the evening, when everything is illuminated, the visitor is offered a fantastic picture. The most beautiful pictures can be taken from the Waibaidu Bridge.

To relax after a walk along the promenade, take a boat ride on the Huangpu River or take a break at the northern end of the promenade. There is a small, lovingly landscaped green area.

Another small experience is the tunnel ride. In less than five minutes, visitors can get to the other side of the river, accompanied by colorful lights, where Shanghai’s tallest buildings are located, the Shanghai Tower, the Shanghai World Financial Center and Shanghai’s television tower, the Oriental Pearl Tower.