Traveling with hand luggage is unfortunately often the only way to keep the costs of a short vacation from getting too far in times of reduced services by many airlines. We already did this when we were studying and saved a lot of money and running systems shouldn’t be changed, right … that’s why we still practice traveling with hand luggage today, both for reasons of cost and time. We’re already going to Prague for a few days tonight and we’re definitely not going to take anything more than hand luggage there! , then you ‘ll be there live. We have put together the most important points for you, with which you can get the most out of your hand luggage without getting into the wool with your airline or the people from the security check. Liquids in hand luggage First things first: The point that causes most problems for many travelers is the hand luggage regulations regarding the amount and size of liquids or the liquid containers that can be carried in hand luggage. It is actually quite simple, because there is only one rule worldwide: You are allowed to carry a maximum of 1L of liquids with you, divided into containers with a maximum capacity of 100ml, packed in a single transparent, sealable bag. The number of containers does not matter as long as they all fit in the bag and do not exceed 100ml in size. The filling level of the container is also irrelevant, a shampoo bottle with 200ml may not be in hand luggage, even if it is almost empty. So what do you need? 1. A transparent, sealable bag with 1L capacity: It is available in an uncomplicated and inexpensive way as a freezer bag with a zipper. If you want it to be more sustainable, you can get this transparent cosmetic bag * , for example . 2. Containers / vials with a maximum capacity of 100ml each: In the drugstore ( e.g. at DM) you can buy ready-made sets with vials and containers as well as individual bottles, which, however, rarely have the maximum allowed 100ml. If you really want to almost max out the permissible maximum size and it is important to you that nothing leaks, then these bottles are for you . Your products / liquids do NOT have to be transferred to the transparent bottles. You can just throw everything as it is in the transparent bag, as long as it doesn’t contain more than 100ml and everything fits into the bag. Incidentally, medicines are generally excluded from the hand luggage regulations! All you need is a certificate from your doctor stating that you have to carry the medication (s) with you in your hand luggage. At the ADAC there is a form for taking medication with you . Make the most of airlines’ hand luggage regulations This point is a little more complicated, because the hand luggage regulations of the airlines differ considerably. There are basically 3 aspects that must be taken into account: 1. Dimensions of hand luggage: The airlines’ regulations are largely very similar here; the maximum permitted dimensions are usually around 55x40x23cm, including handles and castors. You can find a good overview of the maximum dimensions allowed by many airlines here or here, but please check back with the airline itself, the conditions change frequently. The search for the piece of hand luggage in the optimal size and shape is a little tricky and requires some perseverance, as you should, for example, depend on which airlines you fly with frequently. Wizzair, for example, has completely different regulations than Ryanair, but since Wizzair does not fly from our home airport at all, we don’t care. Here you will find a good pre-sorting of luggage in hand luggage size, unfortunately Amazon does not do that well. 2. Weight of hand luggage: The regulations on the maximum permitted weight differ considerably, sometimes you can only take 6kg with you, sometimes a whole 12kg. Therefore: When buying the piece of luggage, pay attention to the weight, less is more. In any case, do your research and take advantage of the airline’s regulations! A luggage scale * is really worth gold , even when it comes to normal luggage. At the end of our vacation we often stood at the check-in and joked to see if everything was going through. With a mobile luggage scale you no longer have this stress. 3. Number of pieces of luggage: With some airlines you are only allowed to take a single piece of hand baggage with you, but with most of them a large and a smaller handbag (there are also maximum dimensions for this handbag, please be smart!). Some even allow you to take a laptop bag and / or a garment bag with you. Inception: Bag in Bag (in Bag) Point 3 leads us to this trick, which is more of interest to the ladies among us: Inception! Ha! Traveling for several days with just one handbag is stupid. After all, you need a large bag for the daytime, a small one for the evening and it’s not so easy in terms of color, but there’s no more space in your luggage … you know that. My trick: Take a large handbag as a second piece of hand luggage and then the smaller bag stuff in. If the small bag is just big enough, your liquid bag can fit in here and you can use every millimeter. Not elegant, but efficient. Roll it up! You probably all know the roll trick by now, right? At the beginning we neither believed nor understood why you should get more clothes in your suitcase this way. Somehow doesn’t make sense. But trying is better than studying and lo and behold: it really works! The vulture knows why. We’ve only packed like that since then. What is not true, however, is that the rolling technique means that the clothes remain wrinkle-free. Rethink your cosmetic routine This appeal is directed again at the ladies: If you are not one of the lucky women who can simply walk around without make-up in everyday life, you always have to carry at least a basic stock of cosmetic products with you. And yes, there is also a little bit of chick behavior at the start. The liquid regulations in hand luggage regularly present me with a tough challenge and the total amount is simply a problem. This is exactly why it is worth rethinking your personal cosmetic routines. Here are a few tricks that work well for me, at least for a few days over the years, that will reduce the number of products I carry with me: – A brown eyebrow pencil can also be used as a kohl / eyeliner. The other way around, however, does not work well, since an eyeliner is too greasy and soft for the eyebrows – Eyebrow powder also works as a matt eyeshadow and vice versa (use your eyeshadow as an eyebrow powder, please make sure that it is really matt and without shimmer!) – Mineral powder = foundation + powder. The best mineral foundation is and will remain Bare Minerals * – Concealer also works as a foundation, dose carefully! – Buy a Cheeks & Lips Stick and you have blush and lip color in one – Straighteners in hand luggage? Oh dear … if you can’t do without it, there are also mini straighteners * – Hand cream = face cream. But make sure that it is not greasy and that it absorbs well, otherwise the make-up will slip away. It is also the other way around, but it is the worse option for reasons of cost – Buy all cheap products locally: shampoo, conditioner and shower gel are cheap everywhere. Most of the time the products are also available in the hotel and you don’t need to take them with you
5 magical places for forest tours in Germany
The myriad health benefits of spending time in nature have recently been on everyone’s lips. Doctors are increasingly prescribing “spending time outdoors,” and practices such as “forest bathing” (or shinrin-yoku in Japan) are becoming more established. As a 32% forest- covered nation with several old forest areas, there are more than enough perfect places in Germany to reflect on yourself and to find your way back to nature. In one of these paradisiacal forests you can relax and lighten your spirits on a forest hike. Wershofen, Palatinate Forest Let the local forester Peter Wohlleben guide you through the Palatinate Forest Wershofen is a town deep in the western Palatinate Forest, equidistant from the cities of Koblenz and Cologne. It is not exactly known, but it has been since the publication of the bestseller The Secret Life of Trees From the local forester Peter Wohlleben, nature lovers come here in droves. In the book Wohlleben describes a network of trees that he calls the “Wood Wide Web”. Trees communicate with it and can support each other physically by passing on nutrients through their roots. Those who make a pilgrimage to the area in the forest for which Wohlleben is responsible can take part in lectures and seminars or take a two to three-hour captivating hike (also in English) through the forest with the author himself. The hiking groups in Wohlleben’s Forest Academy are always small, so you can ask Wohlleben all your questions personally. There are also forestry courses available if you want to learn more. You can stay overnight at the Hotel Landgasthaus Pfahl . Neuschönau, Bavarian Forest Go for a walk in the Bavarian Forest National Park on the (Treetop Walk) With 241 km², the Bavarian Forest is the largest continuous forest area in Europe and is located on the German-Czech border. The national park of the same name was the first in Germany and is a natural paradise of glacial lakes, mountains and wild, dense forest in which rare animal species live. There are around 300 km of hiking trails that meander through the tall trees and the park is just a two-and-a-half hour drive from Munich. If you are on a longer trip, spend the night in the city of Neuschönau. It is the starting point for the many hiking trails in the area and the next town on the National Park’s treetop path. The accessible, family-friendly wooden path winds up into the sky and becomes a viewing platform 25 m above beech, fir and spruce trees and offering a panoramic view of Bavaria and the Czech and Slovak mountains in the distance. Spend the night in the Pension Salzsäumer , an old Bavarian country house with rustic suites with a view of the forest, Vichy pattern bed linen and nicely painted wardrobes. Lauterbach, Hainich National Park In the last beech forest in Central Europe, wild wild garlic plants cover the ground The Hainich National Park is home to Europe’s last Central European beech forest and is located in southeast Germany. The primeval forest, which is now carefully protected, was once used by the military for training purposes. The best way to explore the untouched landscape of ash, maple and linden trees is to walk past wild ramsons and orchids in the shade while the woodpeckers knock on the trunks and bats hang from the branches. The hiking trails are well marked and most of them are circular. The 530 meter long treetop path leads you deep into the forest to a 44 meter high observation tower, where you can find information about the flora and fauna of the park. Make the village of Lauterbach to your starting point. It is to the west and has an entrance to the park. The Fehrenbacherhof Naturgästehaus is a family-run guest house in Lauterbach with wooden beamed ceilings and a breakfast made from regional products. Freiburg im Breisgau, Black Forest Gentle forest hills and shady valleys with clear lakes await you here Travel to the medieval university town of Freiburg in Breisgau to venture deep into the Black Forest, which is famous for its rolling hills with pines, firs, beeches and oaks, its shady valleys, quiet lakes, the lush green pastures and clear streams that overlook mossy rocks flow, is known. In this south-western part of Germany you can easily immerse yourself in nature and take part in many tours through the Black Forest National Park on foot, by bike or even by canoe or kayak. Follow the park’s adventure trails or take a guided hike from providers like Black Forest Tours who, along with many local locals, help visitors discover unknown or less-known places in the wild. Check in Apartment-Freiburg-Exclusive one, a modern holiday apartment with marble floors, furniture in “mid-century style” and floor-to-ceiling windows that offer a view of the city and the green landscape. Rathen, Saxon Switzerland National Park The Bastei bridge and rock formation in the Saxon Switzerland National Park Although the Saxon Switzerland National Park is better known for its ancient and mystical rock formations – including the huge Bastei (a 194 meter high monolith over the Elbe) – it also has a misty, deep green forest, which is roamed by luxes and above by falcons and eagles is flown over. Visitors can hike 1,200 km of pine needle scented trails. There are many guided tours, including boat tours on the Elbe. You can reach the park on an easy day trip from Dresden. However, if you would prefer a closer and longer stay, Rathen , a village close to the forest and at the foot of the bastion, is recommended. After an adventurous day outdoors, you can relax in the sauna or steam bath at Hotel Elbiente .
Bargain week at REWE Reisen: 7 holiday deals for Valentine’s Day
I know that at the start of the year, many of you, like most people, are in the middle of planning your vacation. Maybe you already have a concrete idea of where it should go, but maybe you are still completely haphazard. It is very likely that the money is causing you a little problems thanks to all the insurances that arise at the beginning of the year and the fun electricity and gas back payments – and so dreams are big, but the travel budget is rather small (struggle of my life: p). But there is good news: REWE Reisen has a pretty cool campaign on Valentine’s Day that could solve this problem. Last year I already pointed out the campaign to you on my Instagram channel and without wanting to promise too much for this year – last year, among other things, there was a trip to Mauritius for very little money. Since it’s twice as good, I would like to take this opportunity to once again present the REWE Reisen Valentine’s Day campaign in detail. REWE #meinbesterdeal: This is how it works From 02/10 Until February 16, 2020 there is a new travel deal every day under #MEINBESTERDEAL as part of the # meinbesterdeal campaign by REWE Reisen . On the occasion of Valentine’s Day, the travel deals are basically designed for two people, so it’s best to think about who your company might be (if you don’t already know). The principle is very simple: True to the motto ‘pay half’, there are, for example, deals in which you travel as a couple but only pay the price for one person. Or there is, for example, a combination of a beach holiday and a round trip, but you only pay one of them. I admit that this doesn’t make sense at first glance – but trust me as soon as the deals start on February 10th. go online on REWE Reisen , you can see immediately what it is about. And there are no hidden costs or similar, everything is very transparent and you can in any case assess whether the price is okay for you for two people. What you get is what you see ? 7 holiday deals at a bargain price A total of 7 holiday deals will be activated in the REWE Reisen Bargain Week, a new one every day. This deal can then be booked for 24 hours or as long as the quota lasts. The highlight: Unfortunately, you don’t know beforehand which deal there will be, ie you have to be surprised and simply decide spontaneously. My observation from last year’s # meinbesterdeal campaign shows me that you sometimes have to be really quick! Some of the deals were actually sold out within a few hours. And that actually shows impressively that you can get some really great bargains on the trips offered, because we Germans are not necessarily known for spontaneous decisions, especially when it comes to travel planning, are we? ? But I can tell you that it was precisely these spontaneous decisions and the openness to goals that were not necessarily high on my bucket list that were often the best decisions in retrospect. My trip to Lofoten in Norway, for example, was made with a very short lead time, I was still on the plane in panic researching how to take photos with the northern lights and finally, in the dark with my feet in the maybe 5 degree cold water , I used the manual mode for the first time almost blindly used my camera. Hawaii was also a super spontaneous decision (because when are there flights to Hawaii for less than € 700 ?!) and I couldn’t have a flight to the west coast of the USA for a flight to the west coast of the USA in 2016 without waiting for the approval of my former employer Booked just € 200 if this travel blog wouldn’t exist today (and I might still have the job from back then, but that’s another story ?) Long story short: Sometimes you just have to let life happen. By the way, I myself discovered the # meinbesterdeal campaign too late last year and I couldn’t find anyone in a hurry who would be tempted to travel with me … and to be honest, I still mourn the lost Mauritius trip a little . Valentine’s Day is not just for lovers At this point, another thought that I would like to bring you closer: The vacation deals of this Valentine’s Day promotion are for two people, but that doesn’t mean that you have to travel with your partner. I myself used to travel exclusively with my partner and when this relationship broke up I stood there and didn’t know what to do next. Out of necessity, I tried to travel alone, some of these breaks were also very good, but in the end I realized that I prefer to travel with other people. For me, there is nothing better than experiencing things together with someone I like and who is just as enthusiastic as I am and sharing these experiences and stories. So if your partner may not want or be able to decide as spontaneously as you yourself or doesn’t feel like going to certain travel destinations – why don’t you travel with a girlfriend or boyfriend? My learning from my time as a single is that you should never limit yourself to someone else. You yourself are the most important and valuable person in your life and that is precisely why Valentine’s Day can be a day on which you first and foremost give yourself presents ? Cheat Sheet: This way you can find out beforehand which trip there will be the next day I know … spontaneity is often somehow not as easy to implement in practice as one would like it to be in theory. Therefore, there is a very simple way for the # meinbesterdeal campaign as you can find out one day in advance what offers will be available the next day: Subscribe to the REWE Reisen newsletter . Or even easier: Subscribe to the REWE Reisen Facebook page and check out every day which deal is in the starting blocks. So you can agree with your travel partner a day in advance whether the offer is something for you and, if necessary, quickly apply for a vacation from your employer. In any case, I’m following the campaign closely this year because I don’t want me to miss another great offer like Mauritius last year. I am definitely curious where I will end up this year!
Everyone dreams of these stunning travel destinations
Even if most of the world’s travel plans are on hold, we can still dream of traveling. Many are impatient to resume their travel plans and others prefer to plan new adventures. Until you can explore the world again, create a wish list in the Booking.com app . And if you still need a little inspiration, check out the travel destinations around the world that are on the wishlists of our global travelers *. Sochi, Russia The luxury travel destination of Sochi is the perfect addition to your wish list Sochi is a beautiful Russian city at the foot of the Caucasus, stretching along the Black Sea. It is known as a year-round resort that is particularly popular with stars and politicians. But our travelers also seem to have a great need to go there. There is a good range of adventurous sporting activities, luxurious pampering options, and UNESCO heritage sites to visit in winter and summer. So plan your trip long enough to see it all. When planning your wish list, keep in mind that a trip just isn’t complete without staying in luxury beachfront accommodation . Cape Town, South Africa Add an accommodation in bold colors to your wish list The port city of Cape Town is a popular destination on the wish lists of our global travelers and there is plenty to see and do there. Stroll through the Bo-Kaap neighborhood and admire the houses painted in bright colors. Ride the classic Franschhoek Wine Tram to some of the oldest and most famous wineries in the Franschoek Valley while enjoying the beautiful rolling landscape of the vineyards. If you like animals, plan a visit to Boulders Beach. This beach is the only place in the world where you can see African penguin colonies in the wild. It doesn’t matter if you are on the coast or in one of the colorful houses in Bo-Kaap want to stay the night – there are tons of options to fit your wish list. Kyoto, Japan Kyoto has most of the cultural treasures in Japan Kyoto is especially on the wish lists of those interested in history and culture . As this inland city has the greatest concentration of cultural assets in Japan, it is often associated with tradition and ancient craftsmanship. The city was also the capital from 794 to 1185, and many historic buildings and temples are still preserved in their original state. You will feel as if you have stepped back in time when you see the geishas strolling down Hanamikoji Street in traditional clothes. To the east of Kyoto, discover the centuries-old red torii paths of the Inari Shrine in Fushimi. End your excursion with an overnight stay in a machiya, a traditional wooden townhouse . Miami, USA Beaches, parties, and great weather ensure that many of our travelers put Miami on their wish lists Best known for its beaches, parties and great weather, Miami, in southern Florida, is high on the travel wish lists of travelers around the world. South Beach – colloquially known as the American Riviera – is where most locals and tourists come to. In this Art Deco district, the tanned bodies and world-class restaurants present themselves, but you can also find one or the other small snack on the beach. Any of the diverse hotels would be the perfect addition to your wish list. Tulum, Mexico The 13th century Mayan ruins are a must see in Tulum Tulum – a coastal city on the Caribbean coast of Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula is also on our travelers’ wish lists – for obvious reasons. The mirror-smooth, turquoise-colored sea invites you to swim in it and then let the sun dry you off on the snow-white beach. Also, explore the 13th-century Mayan ruins built on a cliff. The nearby Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve offers a natural experience. At the heavenly place, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, you will find untouched nature with jaguars, manatees and hundreds of species of birds and butterflies. This tropical oasis offers tons of luxury beach accommodations to fit everyone’s wish list. Natal, Brazil Natal is on the wish list of the adventurous Travelers from all over the world have to stay at home for the moment and many dream of the sunny coasts of Brazil and especially of Natal on the northeastern tip of Brazil. There are many secluded beaches, huge dunes, lagoons and picturesque fishing villages all over the city. But the city has more to offer than just idyllic relaxation by the sea, because it is known for the buggies with which you can race over the dunes. Zip along the coast in a convertible buggy during the day, then relax in an ocean view accommodation and watch the gentle waves lapping on the sun-kissed beach.
The most beautiful travel destinations in nature: Austria
Whether young or old, active or relaxed – here are five tips for the best travel destinations * for everyone who wants to experience an unforgettable holiday in Austria’s nature . Visit natural mountain lakes, nature parks and forests or one of the six official national parks. Climb the mountains on countless hiking trails or enjoy a leisurely cable car ride to the summit. Enjoy the breathtaking view of a mountain hut or taste the fresh, home-made delicacies in a beautiful alpine inn. Weissensee Nature Park, Carinthia The natural Weissensee has drinking water quality The Weissensee Nature Park is located here at the foot of the Gailtal Alps, which was awarded the “European Prize for Tourism and Environment” in 1995 with its healing climate and is also the highest bathing lake in Carinthia. With its breathtaking mountain panorama, the lake with its white edge shimmers like a jewel in the mountains. Europe’s most natural alpine lake with its emerald green to turquoise blue colors has drinking water quality. Sports enthusiasts can choose between many different water sports such as diving, stand-up paddling, water skiing, wakeboarding and even cliff jumping from an 18m high stone wall. If you want to take a more leisurely approach to the day, you can stroll through the beautiful weekly market, spend a relaxing day in the thermal baths or try the famous Weissensee fish on the pleasure raft. You can also experience numerous events, such as a traditional raft concert. You can enjoy even more nature on a trip to the nearby UNESCO Biosphere Park Nockberge. The quiet one Pension Mitterer is an ideal starting point for your activities. Here you can relax in the garden, go swimming on the hotel’s own beach or rent bicycles, boats or Nordic walking sticks. Bad Aussee – Salzkammergut, Styria Enjoy the natural and alpine panorama In the traditional costume capital Bad Aussee , tradition, cultural events and cuisine are very important. Folk customs, music, dance, songs as well as dialect and traditional costumes could be preserved here up to today’s fast-moving times. Experience your free time with many festivals and events such as Austria’slargest flower festival, the daffodil festival (May), hut evenings with Styrian folk music or musical lake tours. The beauty of the landscape with lush meadows and forests and blue-green lakes invites you to hike its mountains, immerse yourself in its lakes or simply enjoy nature. The VIA ARTIS artist paths and hikes to the lucky spots in the region, which are sought out for self-discovery and the development of inner sensitivity, are particularly popular. In Aussee’s cuisine, char and trout combine central elements of tradition and modern culinary art. “Sticky – tasty” (wild, impressive – tasty), as they say. Try these and other delicacies in one of the many Alpenstub’n, alpine inns or huts. In the forest rest You can expect a bed, breakfast, a smile and a particularly relaxed stay in the middle of the forest. Rust – Neusiedler See National Park, Burgenland Recurring summer guests at Lake Neusiedl Burgenland is the sunny side of Austria and the free town of Rust on Lake Neusiedlis the city of storks. In the picturesque, listed old town with well-tended Baroque and Renaissance facades, the largest colony of storks in the country is located on the chimneys and breeds there from around the end of March to the end of August. On a bike tour or a hike through the National Park Neusiedler See – Seewinkel you can find a rich abundance of animal and plant species, storks and around 350 other bird species on the extensive meadows and pastures, salt lakes and reeds. The Neusiedler See region is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and, with its specific microclimate, is also a very special wine-growing region. Wine lovers can taste the exceptional and high quality wines in the numerous shops of the wineries in the city. In addition, you should definitely try the regional delicacies of home-style cuisine at a traditional “Heuriger” or “Buschenschank”. In the charming,Cottage you can enjoy the fairytale gardens after an impressive day and then relax in a four-poster bed. Saalbach-Hinterglemm, Salzburger Land Fantastic views on the many mountain routes for hiking or mountain biking The municipality of Saalbach is located in the Salzburg region, in the beautiful Pinzgau region. Located in the long Glemmtal, it is part of the Kitzbühel Alps and one of Austria’s most popular ski and bike destinations. In this typically alpine mountain village, extreme and casual athletes can devote themselves to their favorite sport or try something new. From downhill mountain biking to wild rafting tours to paragliding tandem flights, everything is on offer. The multi-faceted holiday offer does not only include entertainment for adrenaline and action-addicted athletes, but also families, pleasure hikers and those who love to relax will find what they are looking for here. Fantastic views of rugged rock formations, green grass hills, dotted with meadow and alpine flowers, and natural waters can be admired everywhere. Discover the wide network of hiking trails or visit adventurous play and adventure parks for the whole family. The Hohe Tauern National Park and the picturesque villages are also in the vicinityZell am See and Bad Gastein are well worth a visit. Live comfortably in alpine style in the apartments Liebe Heimat . Here you can relax in the garden, in the beautiful parlor or in the sauna, as you wish. Vienna Discover the lush flora and special fauna in the Danube floodplains by canoe Almost half of the city of Vienna consists of green spaces and is one of the greenest cities in the world. You will find relaxation and recreation in the numerous parks, forests and also on agricultural land. Linger at one of the natural bathing spots on the Old Danube, the Danube Island or the Danube-Oder Canal and visit the mixture of baroque splendor and natural beauty in the park of Schönbrunn Palace, in the Belvedere palace garden or in the Augarten. You can find even more nature and relaxation in the Vienna Woods Biosphere Park, the “green lung” of the city, or in the “Jungle of the Viennese” in Lobau. The “water forest” is part of the Donau-Auen National Park, one of the last larger floodplain landscapes in Europe, which is also home to the kingfisher. Go on a hike or bike ride around Kahlenberg and Cobenzel, where you can enjoy a wonderful view of the city and the vineyards. Then you can stop off at a winery or a wine tavern. Located directly on the water, you can end your day on a deck chair in the garden of the Bungalow at Lake Alte Donau .
The best group travel destinations in Germany
If you haven’t seen your friends for a long time or just want to experience something together – what could be better than traveling together? We have put together some of the top travel destinations * recommended by German group travelers – from the mountains in the south to the sea in the north. Berlin On the Teufelsberg, gray history meets colorful present Berlinis mainly known by group travelers as Europe’s party metropolis, but few know that you can also explore nature together in the city. On a bike tour through the Grunewald to the Drachenberg you have the opportunity to experience Berlin from its green side. And as the name suggests, many Berliners use the Drachenberg to let their aircraft soar into the air against the backdrop of Berlin. If your group is passionate about history, then the ascent to the nearby Teufelsberg is worthwhile. At the top there is a former listening station from the Cold War. The building is no longer in operation, but group tours are offered and local artists have painted the cold military building with colorful graffiti.Resting guesthouse Pauline . Leipzig A bike ride with friends is a great way to discover the city In the historic Auerbachs Keller in Leipzig , Goethe sat with his friends and was inspired. The city is known for its alternative culture and art scene. While strolling through the alleys you can admire the numerous graffiti works of art on the walls. But real fans don’t have to go into illegality to conjure up their own picture on the wall. Numerous providers give visitors the opportunity to learn the craft from experienced professionals and to use a spray can to spray their own motif on a wall at a graffiti workshop. After painting, the artists can compare the works with friends and dream of a big breakthrough overnight at INNSIDE by Meliá Leipzig . Hamburg The port of Hamburg is the perfect starting point for an excursion or just to relax The hometown of Hans Albers offers numerous other sights in addition to the famous pubs, the Hamburg harbor and the Reeperbahn. In order to get the group in the mood for the beautiful port city, a common harbor tour is recommended. From the water you can marvel at the most beautiful sights of the city without the risk of getting lost in the stream of tourists. After visiting the city on the water and on land, one deserves a visit to one of Hamburg’s famous pubs in the evening. Various pubs offer Sunday evenings the chance to indulge in a German tradition: to watch the crime scene together and to guess who the perpetrator is. When the case is resolved, you can spend the evening in the bar of the Adina Apartment Hotel Hamburg Michel let it fade away. Munich Surfers try their luck on the standing wave of the Eisbach The capital of Bavaria has more to offer groups than just going to the Oktoberfest in lederhosen and dirndls. Nymphenburg Palace in Munich West offers a regal atmosphere and culture as well as, in the adjoining botanical garden, tropical green in the middle of the Alpine foothills. For refreshment, take your friends to the Viktualienmarkt, which has been attracting Munich residents for their daily shopping for 200 years. Here you can enjoy excellent Bavarian “delicacies”: white sausages and wheat beer. Munich offers a special surprise for groups who are enthusiastic about sports. The Eisbach in the English Garden invites amateur surfers hundreds of kilometers from the nearest sea to try their luck in the cool water. Here, a standing wave allows the athletes to perform daring tricks on the river – to the cheering applause of their friends who are watching from the adjacent bridge. After you have completely exhausted yourself in the white water,Boutique Hotel Splendid-Dollmann . regensburg Along with the cathedral, the stone bridge is the city’s most important landmark In order not to get lost, explore the winding streets of medieval Regensburgbest together. In summer, students and sun-seekers have a barbecue on the Jahninsel, which is a natural place for excursions in the middle of the city between the Danube and Danube Canal. You can get there via the historic stone bridge, from which even the brave jump into the Danube Canal in summer. When the group has relaxed enough, they can devote themselves to the culture and take part in a historical city tour, during which the city guides lead the group through the streets in suitable clothes. If your group is looking for a little more excitement, the Frankenjura climbing area about an hour away is a good tip. The rock formations and climbing routes there are considered to be one of the best-developed climbing areas in the world and offer something for all levels of experience. In a larger group, someone can always secure the rope, while another daring man works his way up the rock. After a day of activity you can relax in the middle of the romantic old town in theibis Regensburg Zentrum relax.
7 reasons to travel to Fuerteventura
Ideal for sports enthusiasts Thanks to its year-round warm climate and pleasant water temperatures, the island is very suitable for practicing all (water) sports. Do you love windsurfing , diving , sailing , canoeing , beach volleyball or hiking ? Then Fuerteventura is the place for you! Adventure and story If you love adventure and nature, then a hike up the Montaña de Tindaya mountain is a must! Here you can admire rock engravings by the indigenous people. The mountain has been declared a natural monument. Unique accommodation One of the best hotels on the island is the Atlantis Hotels & Resorts . Here you will be pampered and experience excellent service. The hotel chain is located near the spectacular national park , which is home to the famous Coralejo dunes . The resort is also not far from beautiful white sandy beaches that leave nothing to be desired. Beaches for every type Fuerteventura has just the right thing for every type of beach. You can find lonely beaches and places with restaurants, small shops and a lively promenade. There are white sand beaches and some with black sand. You will also find out how diverse the landscape is. Are you ready to go exploring? Camel rides and unforgettable experiences You don’t have to travel all the way to the Far East to ride a camel once in a lifetime. In Fuerteventura you can sign up for a camel safari, during which you will discover the beautiful Oasis Park and learn more about these unique animals. Excursion to Isla de Lobos Isla de Lobos is a very quiet place , almost a forgotten paradise in the middle of the Central Atlantic. Here you can unwind, relax and enjoy the breathtaking nature . A tip: try the traditional paella in one of the small restaurants on the island. Island with history Fuerteventura is an island with a long history … Some of its mountains are over millions of years old. Our advice? Get out into nature, discover and let yourself be overwhelmed by the beauty of the island .
How To: Copenhagen in a Day
The Danish capital Copenhagen, with almost 600,000 inhabitants, is one of the smaller cities in Europe, but is one of the most important metropolitan areas in the Scandinavian region. For those who have never been to Scandinavia before, Copenhagen is the perfect start. Although the city is geographically not that far from northern Germany, you will still find a completely different architecture and a completely different cityscape. You are wondering how much time do you need for a city trip to Copenhagen? Two to three days are completely sufficient to visit the most important sights and highlights on your first visit – but if necessary, you can also do it in one day . In this article, we’ll tell you how to do it and what you shouldn’t miss. Sightseeing in Copenhagen First things first: Copenhagen’s main attractions are all in the city center and can be reached on foot. You don’t need a ticket for public transport! (However, as with all city trips, comfortable shoes are mandatory) We have marked the most important spots for you on the map. If you want to save the money for the ticket, make sure that your hotel or accommodation is within this range. The round tower (round camo) The best way to start your day in Copenhagen is on a round camo. The Rundetarn is an almost 35m high observation tower in downtown Copenhagen – doesn’t sound high and not very exciting? Hm … a definite yes and no. The height is actually sufficient for a beautiful view of Copenhagen, because you will not find significantly higher buildings anywhere in the city. Therefore, the tower is recommended as a starting point, you get a good overview and an idea of where which sights are and how the distances are. In addition, the tower is so centrally located that you are practically in the middle of Copenhagen’s shopping street – by the way, one of the longest pedestrian zones in Europe with a length of over a kilometer. So if you prefer to focus on shopping in Copenhagen, this is the place for you. Amalienborg Palace Amalienborg Palace is one of the few European castles that is still owned and inhabited by the royal family. It is located in the middle of Copenhagen and can be easily reached on foot, right next door is the marble church, which is also worth seeing and has one of the largest accessible domes in Scandinavia. If the queen is in the house, the changing of the guard takes place every noon at noon. Costs: The castle can be visited for around 10-13 € (depending on which areas you want to see) . Nyhavn Copenhagen The Nyhavn, in German new harbor, is probably the image that everyone associates with Copenhagen first. Basically, it is just a small canal that emanates from Copenhagen harbor, but is built with pretty, colorful gabled houses on both sides. Most of the houses were built in the 18th and 19th centuries and have survived the numerous fires that raged in Copenhagen in the last few centuries unscathed, so that they are still very well preserved today. In the past, as is so common in harbor districts, the red light district of Copenhagen was located here. Today you can find a lot of pubs and restaurants here, where tourists can of course pay tourist prices. If you want to avoid that, just sit on the bank for free – the view is the same. The relatively cheap harbor tours start from here (approx. € 12 per person, duration approx. 1 hour). If you still have enough time or if you are there for more than a day anyway, we definitely recommend a harbor tour! You can book in advance here, unfortunately not – you want to make sure that you can really make on your desired date and a tour, then you can with another provider, whose tour at the Gammel beach (yes, that really his name!) Starts here Buy tickets in advance * . The little mermaid In addition to the pretty gabled houses on Nyhavn, there is a second image that each of us associates with Copenhagen: The Little Mermaid. What about the only approx. 1.25 m small statue that is placed on the promenade in Copenhagen? Well … actually nothing. Its construction was commissioned in the early 20th century and it has been there ever since. Sometimes with, sometimes without a head. Why exactly it became the city’s landmark – no idea! Probably because she has survived so many vandalism attacks that it has become a running gag. In other words: the statue itself is moderately spectacular. If you still want to see it, you have to walk for a while because it is not in the immediate city center. Or you book a harbor tour * , then you can at least see it from a distance. Tivoli Copenhagen Tivoli is certainly not on every to-do list for Copenhagen, but we would like to recommend it to you. The Tivoli is a leisure and recreation park with a mixture of rides and parks in the middle of Copenhagen’s city center. The special thing about it: the park was opened in the middle of the 19th century and is therefore one of the oldest amusement parks in the world. It can certainly not be compared with today’s amusement parks; despite the modern attractions and rides, you feel more like traveling back in time. When it gets dark, the park is beautifully lit and you feel a little like at a fair of times long past. Cost: The Tivoli pricing system is somewhat opaque. Basically, you can get pure entry to the park for around 15 € (110 DKK), and for around 30 € additional (220 DKK) there is a ticket that allows you unlimited use of the rides. In other words: the total price for admission to the park + use of the attractions is around 45 € (330 DKK). For about 50 € (350-400 DKK, there are sometimes offers here) you can also get a small meal in the park. So there they are, the dreaded Copenhagen prices! We recommend visiting the park in the evening. Save yourself the rides, the large amusement parks in Germany offer much more for similarly high admission prices. In addition, the ticket including the rides is simply not worth it if you only have 2-3 hours anyway. You can buy the ticket online in advance either directly at Tivoli or you can buy, for example, a combined ticket with a harbor tour * , which saves a little money!
Amsterdam Nightlife Guide: The Amsterdam Red Light District
the latest, the Amsterdam Red Light District has developed into a real tourist attraction. And so you can even see families with children strolling through the narrow streets in the early evening hours past the red-lit shop windows in which the women offer their services. Sounds strange? Don’t worry, the families disappear at a later hour and the quarter is taken over by curious couples, partying tourists, bachelor parties and all sorts of really strange characters. All of this can be disturbing, especially if you are in Amsterdam or a red light district for the first time. I was no different. For fear of being ripped off or even stolen from somewhere, you often don’t do much more than take a quick glance in the shop windows or open doors of the shops, although you may be curious and would like to see more. That’s why I’m giving you a little guide by hand and tell you which establishments in the red light district of Amsterdam you can visit without hesitation. The red light district of Amsterdam The red light district is seen from the station forecourt of Amsterdam Central Station slightly to the north-west, between Nieuwmarkt (Neumarkt) and De Oude Kerk (Old Church). The center is located on Achterburgwal, there are numerous shops in which there is nothing that is not there. Between the Achterburgwal and the Nieuwmarkt meander the sometimes very narrow streets, in which the ladies loll around behind glowing red windows and thus create a unique image of a red light district worldwide. On Saturday evenings from spring to autumn, thousands of tourists and locals push their way through the narrow streets – prostitution is an attraction in Amsterdam. But if you actually plan a little more than a “window shopping” and want to experience something as a couple or group of friends, Live shows in Amsterdam’s red light district There are a number of shops in the red light district of Amsterdam where you can watch table dance or live sex shows. Yes, you heard right. As a tourist in particular, you are often misled here and you have to be a little careful with the famous shops when it comes to ticket prices and services. Therefore, at this point, an overview of the known and trustworthy shows: Theater Casa Rosso (OZ Achterburgwal 106-108) The most famous live sex show in Amsterdam takes place in the Casa Rosso Theater. ES is the oldest live sex theater in Amsterdam and also the largest, seating up to 180 guests. There is no fixed program and you cannot buy tickets for a certain show – you only find out what the evening will bring when you are inside. You cannot miss the Casa Rosso in Amsterdam’s Red Light District, you can recognize it by the neon pink elephant. Admission prices: For 45 € or 55 € including two drinks at the box office or via online ticket for 42 € or 52 € you can stay and watch as many shows as you want. If you are traveling as a bachelorette party, the groom or bride receives free entry and can actively be part of the show (true story …). You can find more information here. Moulin Rouge Amsterdam (OZ Achterburgwal 5-7) The Moulin Rouge basically offers the same shows as the Casa Rosso, here too there is a live sex show in addition to strip shows and other performances. Unfortunately, tickets cannot be purchased online in advance. Since I haven’t been to the Moulin Rouge myself, I can’t comment on the prices, allegedly at around 40 € they are a little lower than in Casa Rosso. The reviews of the Moulin Roge are also worse. You can find more information here. Bananenbar Amsterdam (OZ Achterburgwal 37) The banana bar doesn’t look really inconspicuous from the outside, but it is harmless. No red flashing lights, no ladies and gentlemen in front of the door trying to lure tourists in, no loud and brightly advertised program. If you get lost in the banana bar looking for a few drinks, you are not fundamentally wrong, because there are drinks here. And bananas? There are here too, yes. But not in a cocktail … The entrance fee is 60 €, you can drink as much as you want for 1 hour. One can only guess what will happen here in this hour. Something with bananas …?: P The Banana Club is a bit more dignified, for € 25 there is a drink and strip shows with no time limit. Private shows cost extra, of course. More information here. Sex Palace Amsterdam – The last peep show in the Netherlands (OZ Achterburgwal 84) There used to be six establishments in Amsterdam alone that held peep shows. Today there is exactly one peep show in the whole of Holland and it is located in the Sex Palace in the red light district of Amstardam. But what is such a peep show anyway? Strictly speaking, this is a special form of a strip show or a strip club, in which a woman can be seen stripping from the cabins. For a certain period of time, usually a few minutes, you can look through a peephole for a fee. And that already explains why peep shows have slowly but surely died out in the age of the Internet – you can watch in a protected atmosphere and do whatever you want to do for free from home. Nevertheless, the peep show is something of a classic among sex shows and those who want to experience a little nostalgia should dare to go to the Sex Palace. For 2 € there is 2 minutes of viewing time. Red Light Secrets Museum – The oldest prostitution museum in Amsterdam If all of this is a little too extreme for you, you can first find a gentle introduction to the history of prostitution in the prostitution museum Red Light Secrets. The museum is located in the middle of the red light district and guides you through the otherwise hidden world of Amsterdam’s prostitution history with stories from Inga, a former prostitute. Everything is very lively, from replicas of a brothel room to typical work clothing from the different centuries, even sitting in the window is part of the program. Incidentally, I found the ‘Wall of Confessions’ at the end of the museum tour particularly impressive: Here, visitors anonymously wrote their most blatant sex confessions. But see for yourself … Tours through the red light district If you want to find out more about the red light district that goes beyond the historical part or you just don’t feel comfortable without a guide, then a guided tour with a local is recommended. Unfortunately, I was unable to do a tour myself due to lack of time, but I have selected some exciting tours with very good reviews: Extra long 2-hour guided tour through the red light district * Red light district and café tour in German * For the foodies: red light district and food tour * Red light district tour in German in a small group (max. 4 people) * Coffee Shop and Red Light District Tour * Rules of conduct for the red light district In the red light district of Amsterdam there are a few rules that every visitor should adhere to (not least for their own good). 1. No photos or videos of the prostitutes! Not in the windows, not anywhere else. We saw some Asians who probably ignored it out of ignorance – that was stressful. The ladies first make themselves known by knocking loudly on the window, if that doesn’t help, they come out and make sure that the recordings are deleted again. So stick to this rule. It also has something to do with respect for women. 2. It can get very crowded in the narrow streets between the shop windows and bars. So full that you are pushed through the alleys, crowded together. Pickpockets use these situations in particular, so store your belongings safely and take good care of them. 3. Don’t buy anything from street vendors . Nothing to smoke, no other substances. To smoke, go to the coffee shops, preferably a well-frequented, lively shop instead of a dark, dingy-looking one on some side street. This may cost a little more, but you are on the safe side when it comes to quality. 4. In general, most tourists are subject to a fallacy when it comes to smoking: You can legally buy weed etc. in coffee shops in the Netherlands, but open consumption on the street is just as prohibited as it is in Germany! In Amsterdam the police usually turn a blind eye to this, but you don’t have to provoke it. If you want to smoke, just go to a coffee shop . 5. Always move in the alleys in the red light district in pairs . The pickpockets and other dark figures target women and men who are no longer in control of their senses and their musculoskeletal system due to too violent partying. If you lose your group and sit down alone in a corner to breathe, you will quickly get visitors. Frightened? Admittedly, that might sound a bit daunting for one or the other. But if you stick to the rules, then you can experience extraordinary evenings and nights in the red light district of Amsterdam as few other places in the world without having to live with long-term effects such as stolen valuables. A few thoughts on prostitution With the legalization of prostitution in the Netherlands, the Amsterdam red light district has lost its once dingy image over the years. Amsterdam itself advertises its open approach to drug use, sex and prostitution. The shop window miles have become a real tourist attraction “for the whole family”, which of course belittles the topic itself. It is therefore important for me to say that I do not want to thinklessly advertise the Amsterdam red light district as a “must see”. What happens here is and remains prostitution. If you were to ask women whether they are doing this job voluntarily, the answer would be almost 100% “yes”. And of course there is hardly any pimping there and the women are there voluntarily – as voluntarily as you can be there, if you come from a country where you can hardly survive with a normal job. Everyone should think in advance about their position on this topic.
Berlin – 30 things you should definitely do
Berlin is not only our dazzling capital, but also one of the most popular European city break destinations. There are so many different corners and a range of leisure activities that offer everything from history to culture to music. Stroll through the colorful streets, party in a wide variety of clubs, feast your way through German cuisine or try the most exotic dishes in the world, discover the new trends in the music, art, fashion or film scene. No city is as diverse and shaped by the most diverse cultures of the world as our beautiful capital. That’s why you should avoid the typical sightseeing tour and discover Berlin with our top 30 must-see things . 30 things to do in Berlin 1. Visit the large flea market in Mauerpark and watch a great karaoke show. Great atmosphere and great people make this excursion unforgettable. 2. A visit to KaterBlau should be on every to-do list. Good food, beer in the garden and the best DJs in town await you. 3.Treat yourself to a dip in the pool of the Badeschiff Berlin or enjoy a cocktail in the beach club next door. 4. A visit to the Tiergarten should of course not be missed on a trip to Berlin. Incidentally, the park is the largest in the city. 5. Visit the Holocaust Memorial. It was built to commemorate the murder of Jews in Europe during World War II. 6. Drive 200 m upwards and enjoy the 360 ° panoramic view from the Berlin TV tower on Alexanderplatz. 7. Walk once through the Brandenburg Gate, the symbol of Berlin. 8. Attend a classical concert in the Berlin Cathedral. 9. Walk through the Nikolaiviertel, the oldest residential area in Berlin. 10. Get to know Berlin from another side with a boat tour on the Spree. 11. Discover the colorful and lively Simon-Dach-Straße, a well-known street in Friedrichshain. The area is particularly recommended for people on a tight travel budget. 12. Dance until sunrise at Watergate or Berghain. 13. Relax in the Mitte beach bar. 14. Visit the impressive Sanssouci Palace. 15. Treat yourself to a snack in the great restaurant in the Bundestag. From here you have a great view of the city. 16. Stroll across the Gendarmenmarkt and enjoy the unique atmosphere. 17. Checkpoint Charlie should of course not be missing on your visit to the capital. 18. No visit to Berlin without currywurst and kebab! You can find a completely new variant of the fast food trend in Mehringdamm at Mustafa’s Vegetable Kebab. 19. Stroll through one of the most interesting markets in Berlin. You’ll find everything from books to knitted socks on the famous Unter den Linden street. 20. Do you love shopping? Then pay a visit to Germany’s most famous department store. Connoisseurs get their money’s worth on the gourmet floor. And even if you don’t want to buy anything, the KaDeWe is worth a visit. 21. Visit one of the many interesting museums on Museum Island. 22. Discover the biodiversity of the world’s largest zoo. The Berlin Zoo was also home to the polar bear Knut. By the way, the bear is the symbol of Berlin. 23. Immerse yourself in the history of Berlin. The famous Eastside Gallery is located on Mühlenstraße. It consists of pieces of the wall. 24. Also pay a visit to Potsdamer Platz. From here you have a good view of the many skyscrapers. The Berlin Film Festival takes place every year in the nearby Sony Center. 25. Discover the area around Nollendorfplatz. It’s a very open area with lots of bars and markets. 26. Rent a bike and drive to the old Tempelhof Airport. A huge park is now located where planes used to take off regularly. Go jogging, skating, grilling or just enjoying the atmosphere. 27. If you like something alternative and far from the mainstream, go to the Club Color TV. You can even celebrate in the former TV shop during the day. 28. Every Wednesday at 6 p.m. the World Laguage Party takes place somewhere in Berlin – a great event to meet new people from all over the world. The location changes from event to event. 29. Take the subway and discover Berlin like a real Berliner. 30. Get an overview with the world balloon. Only if you have a head for heights!