There’s no way around it: Germany has firmly established itself as a first rate travel destination, not just for the well-informed few but for the happy-go-lucky crowds of tourists from all over the world too; in case anyone wonders why: this country has much more to it than meets the eye (no rhyme intended).
Germany’s multitude of regional identities offers a cornucopia of distinct experiences to meet all kinds of expectations and suit all possible tastes (even the most discriminating ones) – whatever it is you fancy: beautiful scenery, great architecture, lively festivals, glamorous events, exciting nightlife, delicious food and the best beer ever – Germany has it all and more…
Enumerating all the attractions that make visiting this country worth its while would be a daunting task – the possible reasons are so many and so multifarious that any attempt at shortlisting “the best ones” would smack of presumptuousness and of having an axe to grind.
Still, at the risk of appearing presumptuous, here’s a selection of just a few (14 to be precise) good reasons:
#1. River cruises on the Rhine and Maine
One only need kick back and take in the mesmerizing beauty of the German countryside, with its captivating landscapes, elegant old castles perched on the nearby hilltops, and vineyards stretching as far as the eye can see; the main waterways of Germany allow one to see the country from a unique perspective and gain an insight into how important a role some of the main rivers have played historically in the development of important urban centers (Frankfurt, Mainz, Koblenz, Cologne, Dusseldorf, etc) and thus the country as a whole.
The navigating of the stretch of the river known as the Rhine Gorge, dotted with beautiful castles, as well as the Lorelei rock (towering over the river just as painted by J.M.W. Turner) are particularly enjoyable aspects of what truly is a magical journey.
#2. The Carnival Season
A wonderful opportunity to relax and allow yourself to get swept away by tides of carnival celebrations, simultaneously taking place in a number of cities and regions in Germany (especially its western and southwestern parts) during the weekend and through Rose Monday (also on Mardi Gras in larger centers) just before Ash Wednesday. ‘Fifth Season,’ as it is also called, brings with it an explosion of colors: decorated floats, all kinds of flamboyant costumes, bizarre setups ridiculing politicians, street dancers and marching bands. For a truly awesome carnival party go to Cologne – you will experience first hand the warmth of this city, have one helluva good time, and see the stereotypically ‘reserved’ Germans in their ‘party animal’ edition.
#3. Berlin Film Festival
The Berlinale (a.k.a) is doubtless one of the most glamorous events in the global cinematographic calendar; but glamor, commerce, and relentless media attention notwithstanding, this prestigious film festival manages to maintain a good head on its shoulders, in the sense that it promotes and rewards genuine artistry and innovation in film-making within a number of different genres (hence its several sections: Competition, Forum, Panorama, etc) and spanning the full spectrum of global film production.
Attending ‘the Berlinale’ is a great way of keeping abreast with the latest trends and developments in the film industry (not to mention it being a great time to visit Berlin), as an incredible number of film projections – up to 400 – are held for the duration of the festival, making it the world’s largest film festival based on public attendance (over 300.000 tickets sold).
#4. City of Berlin
For the young and young at hart: you’ve got to set some time aside to explore this city! Now, there’s no shortage of events taking place in Berlin that in and of themselves are enough of a reason to visit (Berlinale of course, ‘Karneval der Kulturen,’ ‘Fête de la Musique,’ ‘Long Night of the Museums,’ etc), but just exposure alone (open-minded, needless to say) to the creative stirrings of this bustling city , with its alternative art-scene, ‘underground’ culture and wild parties, is a stimulating experience.
Make the most of the atmosphere around the ‘Hackesche Höfe’ and ‘Oranienburger Straße,’ and get catapulted into Berlin’s nightlife.
#5. Oktoberfest
Everyone (beer aficionados in particular) should, at least once in their lifetime, attend this great festival IMO, and join in the fun of downing consecutive Maßkrüge, to the sounds of lederhosen-clad ‘Oompah Bands’ while feasting on ‘wurst,’ ‘hendl’ and ‘schweinebraten,’ and generally, celebrating all things Bavarian.
Little wonder people from all over the world travel to Munich in droves to be a part of this festival – the atmosphere in and around “die Wiesn” (the epicenter of the festival) and the tents is cheerful in the extreme.
#6. City of Munich
The capital city of Bavaria, situated near the foothills of the Alps, with its characteristic ornate architecture, beautiful parks, world-class museums, nearby castles, and its trademark ‘beer gardens’ is a great place to visit year-round and not just during Oktoberfest.
Munich is a charming city full of remnants of its royal past (most notably around ‘Marienplatz’); being neither big nor small – just the right size – it offers a ton of attractions of all kinds within a relatively small area. Munich’s whole culture of beer gardens greatly adds to its friendly character.
#7. German Food
One of the great things about Germany is the delicious food one gets to eat while over there; yes, you heard me right: German food is great!
With all its ‘wurst’ this and ‘wurst’ that (1500 different types of sausages) served with sauerkraut and potato salad, exquisite soups and stews, ‘sauerbraten,’ ‘schweinebraten,’ ‘schwenkbraten,’ (and other ‘bratens’), hundreds of different types of bread (Brötchen my favorite), all washed down with the best beer in the world, Germany is a true gastronomic wonderland.
On top of that, almost everywhere you go out to eat, you get served a huge plate full of food, instead of some stylishly decorated little morsel.
#8. City of Hamburg
If it weren’t for the overcast skies, I’d move to this great city and never look back! Hamburg, like few other cities in the world, has it all and more: incredible energy, cosmopolitan flair, thrilling nightlife, tons to see and do, and the list goes on …
Due to its phenomenal geographical position on the river Elbe (close to where it flows into the North Sea) with many canals and lake Alster not far from the city center, Hamburg allows for an incredible variety of outdoor activities (even beech sports, believe it or not). Countless attractions to vist during the day (e.g. ‘Speicherstadt,’ promenade by the ‘Landungsbrücken,’ ‘Kunsthalle,’ the futuristic ‘HafenCity’ etc) and the exciting “Reeperbahn” nightlife hub to explore in the evening. No matter what your thing is, you’ll love this city.
#9. Bachfest Leipzig
A delightful annual event for lovers of classical music in general and of the great baroque composer Johann Sebastian Bach in particular; takes place every summer at the historical venue of ‘Thomaskirche’ in Leipzig, where Bach served as the ‘Kapelmeister’ during the last three decades of his life.
Each year the festival features top-notch individual performers and classical ensembles from all over the world; after roughly 100 different events staged, the festival culminates with the performance of the ‘Mass in B minor’ at the ‘Thomaskirche.’
#10. Frankfurt Book Fair
Not only one of the most important events in the global book-publication calendar but also a media event of notable relevance, the ‘Frankfurter Buchmesse’ is the largest book fair in the world (with nearly 7500 participating exhibitors representing 110 countries). The fair dates back to 1476 – shortly after the mechanical movable type got invented by Gutenberg in the nearby Mainz.
The Frankfurt Book Fair with its incredible array of colors is a veritable spectacle for the eyes and a real treat for book lovers from the world over. It is also an important venue for negotiating book-related business deals such as licensing fees and international publishing rights.
#11. Erfurt
Although situated in the center of the country, Erfurt the capital city of Thuringia lies completely off the beaten track of mass-tourist itineraries. This forgotten gem of Germany with its astonishingly preserved medieval nucleus, and an exquisite mixture of medieval, baroque and classical architecture, comes as a breath of fresh air to an unsuspecting visitor. Erfurt boasts one of the oldest universities in Germany (Martin Luther was a student there in the early sixteenth century). Erfurt is conveniently close to Weimar and Jena, a couple of towns very much worth visiting.
#12. Wagner Festival in Bayreuth
If you’re into the music of Richard Wagner, than this festival is a must; the monumental ‘Ring of the Nibelungen’ cycle is the highlight of the festival, but other works like ‘Parsifal,’ ‘The Mastersingers of Nuremberg,’ ‘Tristan and Isolde,’ ‘Tannhäuser,’ ‘Lohengrin’ and ‘The Flying Dutchman,’ are performed too.
First staged in 1876 when, owing to the support by King Ludwig II of Bavaria, the famed composer realized his long-held ambition of instituting a special venue to showcase his own work. A quick caveat: tickets are very difficult to come bye and proper planning, well in advance, is necessary.
#13. Festival Mediaval
Granted it’s a bit unusual, to put it mildly, but if you’re a history buff with a penchant for all things medieval, you are going to love the kind of re-enactment of scenes from life in the middle ages they stage every September in the Bavarian town of Selb.
All kinds of medieval paraphernalia on display with the obligato fire shows, dungeons, archery tournaments, medieval music, bizarre looking characters like beggars and witches, and what not; an entertaining time-travel into a past shrouded in mysteries and myths.
#14. Germans
Last but not least, a good reason to go to Germany is to meet and befriend Germans. While some of the stereotypes about them ring true, they only conveniently cover one half of the truth (the one readily visible at first sight) while filtering out the other half of the equation; namely, while it is true that they are reserved and don’t exactly take to small talk like ducklings to water, once you earn their friendship and trust, you gain a friend who is a helluva lot more solid and real than many a super-sociable flake with whom you quickly take off, only to realize they’re a ‘potemkin village.
Lobster pasta and freshly-caught sea urchins are two of the signature dishes that writer Heather Warburton recommends ordering at
Spilia. It was one of her seven favourite restaurants on a recent trip to Mykonos.
Guest post by Heather Warburton
There are many reasons to go to Mykonos—the color of the water alone, the music, and
the stunning villas—but, undoubtedly, the food scene will convince you. If you intend to eat light and vegetarian, you’ll find no better place, and then again, if you’re more into feta cheese and baklava, you’ll be just fine, too.
I spent five days in Mykonos in early July, and these were my favorite restaurants:
♦ Scorpios
Scorpios is one of the only places to succeed in being both a terrific restaurant, and a really fun party. On a charming stretch of Paraga Beach, Scorpios is a sprawling compound. There’s an indoor area that’s light and spacious, with comfortable couches and a well-designed bar. If you come early in the day (read: before noon), you might see people working on their laptops sipping a green juice. Outside there is one large bar, a deck, a beach with over 40 lounge “beds,” and finally, a restaurant.
Despite its massive size, Scorpios boasts impeccable, friendly service and an intimate vibe. Graze on tzatziki, hummus, and spicy pita chips while waiting for a table. They’ll be the best pita chips of your life. You’ll find a vegetable driven menu once seated, with Mykonian salads (tomatoes, capers, cucumbers and feta cheese), whole roasted fish with your choice of sauce, and so many others. (I loved the quinoa with raisins and the zucchini with fresh mint). Their cocktail list is particularly impressive and long, with innovative and not-overly-sweet takes on your spirit of choice.
Go for a late lunch or sunset dinner.
A sunset party scene on the Scorpios seafront
Please click on the link below to read about the other 6 restaurants that Heather recommends on Mykonos.
Dodecanese Promenade Part A is a 10-minute film featuring highlight attractions on Rhodes, Kasos, Chalki, Symi, Kastellorizo and Karpathos …
… while Part B presents 10 more minutes of beautiful sights and scenes from Patmos, Leros, Kalymnos, Kos, Nisyros and Astypalea
Delightful dozen: Four down, eight to go. That’s how many places we have already been to in the Dodecanese island chain, and the number of other islands we want to see there, as we continue to explore Greece in our annual travels.
Our first foray into the Dodecanese was back in 2004 when we spent three days on Rhodes during our first-ever island hopping holiday in Greece. Our second trip into the region came several years later when we kicked off our 2009 vacation on Astypalea. We returned to the Dodecanese for a third time in 2010, when our travels took us to Kos and Patmos (with ferry stops that teased us with brief looks at Kalymnos and Leros en route).
Seeing only four islands in one chain is nothing to be embarrassed about, but it’s still just one-third of the dozen major destinations in the Dodecanese, and we definitely would like to boost that number. Topping our list of the other Dodecanese islands we would like to experience are Karpathos and Kastellorizo, though we’d be happy spending time on any of the others, too — including Kasos, Chalki and Symi.
Desert Safari Dubai is the most adventure place in the world .Desert safari park is amazing tour that will give you a unique experience in your life. The including sand is the most attractive think in desert Safari. Desert Safari is one of most nature gift to mankind. The trip of desert safari park is best activity of all ages. Specially it is the most romantic place for the new married couples.
The most adventure thing in desert safari park is riding. Desert Safari Dubai Tours is incomplete without a ride on the camel .you will be enjoy this amazing animals as it takes you on ride. After the dune bashing adventure. The camel ride is perfect. The sand bashing is the most adventure part in desert safari park. You will be enjoy the most amazing ride in car.
The ride in up and down of the undulating sand in the desert has you in the throes of emotion every second. The next thing watch in desert safari park is sunset view point. This will be a first time experience in your life as you see a sunset that you would never ever have seen After the lovely creating of nature. You will enjoy amazing types of food that is specially prepared for you.
The barbecue menu that is mouth watering is prepared specially for you. A treat for your eyes is also waiting for you in the form of belly dance. A dune buggy ride, sand and snow skiing, a taste of sheesha pipes for the men and amazing Heena designs for the ladies are the other highlights of the Desert Safari Dubai. If you want Getting good accommodation.
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| Desert Safari Dubai |
That is also necessary if you want to enjoy the Dubai Desert Safari. This is only possible when you have the time to look at the accommodation options before you choose what you like. They have resorts and hotels that offer great hospitality services for tourists. It is important especially when you are travelling with a group to book for your accommodation early so that you can get the rooms that you want while on desert safari Dubai.
In researching our trip to Iceland, I found that a day trip to Greenland would be possible. Greenland? Who goes to Greenland? I immediately became captivated with the idea that we HAD to go. Convincing Laura was another story.
We had long discussions for months about whether we would take the quick trip from Iceland to Greenland. Once before, I wanted to do a day trip to somewhere crazy (from Spain to
Gibraltar). At the time, I was accused of just wanting to collect a passport stamp. And it went much that way this time. I’ll admit, that was part of it. But how often do you have the opportunity for visiting Greenland? We don’t have a lot of vacation time, and tacking the quick trip on to our time in Iceland just made sense (to me, anyway).
Before we left on the trip, the cover of
National Geographic was about Greenland being
Ground Zero for global warming. I wanted to see it for myself. Laura finally gave in.
We opted for a day trip offered by Air Iceland. Yes, it is quite expensive – at about $525 per person, this would be an investment. Unfortunately, it was difficult to find detailed specifics about the Air Iceland package. So, with a leap of faith, we booked the trip.
We got up early and headed to the tiny Reykjavik city airport for the flight. The flight from Reykjavik to the hamlet of Kulusuk, Greenland took a little under two hours. Once in Greenland, we crossed through security and found the guide, a gent from Iceland who had lived in Greenland for some time. He originally came to Greenland as a sociologist to study the indigenous population and ended up seeing a money-making opportunity and stayed.
In Kulusuk, we walked from the airport down into the town, stopping at the cemetery ridge for a view of town. At about this time, the midges found us. These crazy little bugs are attracted to CO2 and fly into your mouth and up your nose. They made us miserable, but there was nothing we could do to keep them away. I wished we had had
netting to get the bugs out of our faces.
Kulusuk is a small village where all of the little buildings clinging to the rocks are painted in picturesque reds and greens and blues. It was very charming…from afar.
The locals in Eastern Greenland have progressed rapidly. In just over 150 years, they have moved from tribal hunter/gathering in seal skins to driving ATVs and wearing North Face. But, like most native peoples, they have over 80% unemployment and an extremely high level of alcoholism. When we were in Kulusuk on a Saturday, the few locals with a job had been paid the day before and the entire town was drunk – including some boys as young as about 10 or 12. Our guide explained that this was pretty typical right after pay day. It was quite sad.
Our first stop was the town’s all-purpose store. It carries everything from groceries to clothes to guns and ammunition. An unusual mish-mash of merchandise, but it gave us a glimpse into the sparse lifestyle of the people and was a strong reminder of how remote Kulusuk is.
There is one gift shop in town, which our guide opened up for us. The store sells exactly the same merchandise as the Kulusuk Gifts store in Reykjavik – t-shirts and expensive bone carvings. He then took us over to the brightly-colored church for a brief 10-15 minute history lesson on Greenland.
We then went into a woman’s house for a drum ceremony demonstration – it could have been really good, however, without providing any cultural context, it was just kind of weird. And somehow Laura got roped into participating.
Actually, that really sums up our trip. Our guide studied the local people in Greenland for his degree and could have provided a really rich cultural discussion and been really informative. Instead, he seemed to be more focused on wanting to open the gift shop and sell things.
The most rewarding part of visiting Greenland was boarding the boats from the town of Kulusuk and taking them out into the bay and past some MASSIVE icebergs. That was very cool!
Yes, we got our passport stamp. Yes, we went to Greenland. And who goes to Greenland? It’s one of those places in the world that is very far off the beaten track and I’m glad we took this opportunity to go. But for cost of about $525 per person, we expected more. It was not the educational and enriching experience that we were hoping for, but I’m glad we did it.
We flew back to Reykjavik for dinner. We had selected Argentine, one of the most popular restaurants in all of Iceland and one of the better steakhouses we’ve ever been to. The restaurant is relatively dark and has a lightly smokey smell from the indoor pit – the ambiance is perfect for a high quality steakhouse. Clearly we hadn’t eaten enough, so on the way back to the hotel, we stopped off at the most popular restaurant in Iceland (really) – Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur hotdog stand. I had “one with” (meaning one with everything). It was excellent! And I can see now why Icelanders love their hotdogs.
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This week, we travel all the way to Gabon on the west coast of central Africa with Bret of
We were based in Libreville, Gabon’s French-flavored capital city located on the Atlantic coast. You’ll notice the French influence of this former colony immediately upon arrival to the airport. English is not used anywhere — on any of the forms or signs at the airport or by any of the customs or ticket agents. Now I know what travelers with limited English feel like when they land at JFK. So I’d recommend you brush up on your French or get a phrasebook for a more comfortable trip to Gabon.
Gabon’s coastline showcases some magnificently unspoiled beaches. You can drive up the coast, or simply take a 20-minute ferry from Port Mole in Libreville across the bay to Pointe Denis. There are several lodges along the point; the Maringa (241-07-32-17-45) and Le Phare de Ngombe (241-62-99-99) are both good choices. If you arrive during turtle nesting season (Dec–March), stay for several nights or just spend the day. If you’re staying at one of the lodges, do call ahead to arrange for a pick-up from the ferry and lunch.
We frequently visited a safari camp called Nyonie, located about two hours south of Libreville – one hour by small boat and another by 4×4 across the Equator. This trip is highly recommended: There aren’t many places on earth where you can spend the morning on a white-sand beach and then go looking for forest elephants in the afternoon. Note that the cabins are very basic (bring your own towel) but the surroundings are gorgeous, the food very good (the French owner, Beti, used to be a chef), the wine and beer always available and elephants aplenty to spot. Any local operator can set you up with a trip there;
Despite the occasional hassle from police, the country is relatively safe and without civil unrest. Although it has one of the highest GDPs on the continent, infrastructure in Gabon is surprisingly limited. Consistent electricity and water depend on which neighborhood you live in. Sabliere, home to our compound and the presidential residence, is almost always connected. Other neighborhoods are on and off. Several expat friends would frequent our home to shower and do laundry when the water wasn’t on for several days.
