Time out in Croatia
Historical and natural treasures
Croatia offers a fascinating mix of historical charm and natural beauty. Situated on the Adriatic coast and surrounded by numerous islands, cities such as Dubrovnik, Split, Zadar and Zagreb attract adventurers and holidaymakers alike. Helvetic Airways flies directly to Brač from mid-June to the end of September.
From Zadar to Venice
A day on a catamaran or sailing boat is ideal for exploring Croatia’s beautiful islands – a perfect experience for families too. From Zadar, you can even take a jet speedboat to Venice and spend a day in the Italian harbour city.
Dubrovnik – King’s Landing
Game of Thrones fans can look forward to numerous filming locations from the series: places such as Dubrovnik, Split and Lokrum can be explored on private tours to immerse yourself in the fantasy world.
The beauty of Croatian landscapes
Croatia harbours numerous enchanting places. On the island of Hvar, you can lose yourself in endless fields of lavender, while the coast of Brela with its Blue Lagoon and azure waters invites you to swim. Inland, the Plitvice Lakes National Park is impressive – a protected forest area known for its lakes, which are connected by waterfalls. The Krka National Park in southern Croatia is also worth a visit.
Historical journey
History buffs can embark on a fascinating journey through the past in Croatia. Starting in the coastal town of Pula, where the Roman ruins, including the impressive amphitheatre, bear witness to the splendour of antiquity. Diocletian’s Palace in Split – an ancient building complex – also offers a glimpse into the history of the Roman Empire.
Mediterranean cuisine
Croatian cuisine is strongly influenced by Mediterranean, especially Italian, cuisine. Traditional dishes include cevapi, kulen (smoked meat) and stuffed peppers. With a total of eleven Michelin-starred restaurants, Croatia is a culinary paradise. We particularly recommend the Monte in Rovinj, the 360 in Dubrovnik, the LD Terrace on Korčula and the Agli Amici in Rovinj.
Accommodation
In June, Villa Dubrovnik reopens its doors in Dubrovnik – an exclusive boutique retreat that was recently renovated. Also in Dubrovnik, the Sun Gardens is an ideal choice for families. The Grand Park Hotel Rovinj, the latest jewel in the Maistra collection, is located just 15 minutes from the coastal town of Rovinj and promises a luxurious stay.
Key West – Florida’s southernmost point
Via Overseas Highway to Key West
The US island city of Key West is part of the Florida Keys and marks the southernmost point of Florida, only around 145 kilometres north of Cuba. It is famous for its pastel-coloured conch-style houses and can be reached via the picturesque Overseas Highway. Key West is not known for its beaches, but its coral reefs are perfect for diving and snorkelling.
Conch Tour Train
The best way to explore the island’s charming streets and landmarks is on the iconic Conch Tour Train. The tour takes you past the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum, the Key West Lighthouse and the Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory.
Fort East Martello Museum
The Fort East Martello Museum is a restored historic site. Today, visitors can explore the preserved collection of Civil War relics, gain insight into the Florida Keys’ formative cigar industry and view metal sculptures by Stanley Papio.
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Duval Street
Duval Street runs through the centre of Key West – a shopping street that stretches from the north to the south coast of the island. Duval Street is both a shopping and party mile. In addition to numerous shops, restaurants and bars invite you to linger. Colourful houses adorn the streets and in the evenings there is a lovely atmosphere with lighting, live music and entertainment.
Fun for the whole family
The Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory is also located on Duval Street. There are over 50 different species to discover at the butterfly zoo. Families can be enchanted by hundreds of free-flying butterflies, exotic birds, and magnificent flamingos. For all underwater fans, the Key West Aquarium offers fascinating insights into life under water.
Food n Drinks
To round off the day, we recommend a cocktail in Sloppy Joe’s Bar, once Ernest Hemingway’s favourite bar and a hotspot with live music since 1933. The Tipsy Rooster Liquor Store & Bar is also worth a visit. The Michelin-starred restaurant Latitudes and the Little Pearl spoil you with excellent seafood. Tapas fans should visit the New American or Santiago’s Bodega.
Overnight stay in Key West
The Parrot Key Hotel & Villas boasts luxurious accommodation right on the water, ideal for families. The tropical boutique bed and breakfast Simonton Court Historic Inns and Cottages promises a relaxing stay in the heart of Key West. The Pier House Resort & Spa is located directly on the beach, while the Coconut Beach Resort offers water sports enthusiasts direct access to the ocean on the Atlantic coast.
Islands of dreams: Seychelles
Marvellous landscapes off the coast of East Africa
Few islands inspire more people to dream than the Seychelles. Situated in the Indian Ocean off the coast of East Africa, the 115 islands enchant with magnificent landscapes of coral reefs, granite cliffs and some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. A visit to the islands immediately reveals why Africa’s smallest archipelago, with just 100,000 inhabitants, is one of the most popular destinations for honeymooners.
Island hopping
With around 155 islands in the Seychelles, each with its own special features and attractions, travellers are spoilt for choice. So why not discover several islands at once in the form of a relaxed island hopping holiday? The best way to do this is on the water on a classic sailing boat or catamaran. Those who prefer a bird’s eye view can enjoy the view over the archipelago on a helicopter flight, with a special focus on the unique landscape of Praslin Island.
On a discovery tour
Fine sandy beaches, sea-smoothed rocks and the turquoise blue water tempt you to spend your days on a deckchair – for example on the particularly beautiful Anse Source d’Argent beach. This is almost a must, but there are also many other things to discover: from a hike with stunning views through the Morne Seychellois National Park, which covers more than 20% of Mahé, to exploring historic palm forests in the Vallé de Mai on Praslin, to a visit to the capital Victoria, one of the smallest cities in the world with only 25’000 inhabitants.
Adventures in and on the water
Water rats get their money’s worth in the Seychelles. From swimming and surfing on the dreamy white sandy beaches to snorkelling and diving in one of the six marine parks with countless colourful corals, graceful fish and giant turtles – the choice of activities in the ocean is almost endless. Those craving more adrenaline can dive with sharks off the islands of Marianne and Curieuse. For those who prefer to stay above the water, a deep-sea fishing expedition is recommended.
Animal friends
Even out of the water, you are quickly surrounded by animals. One of the most beautiful experiences is undoubtedly watching baby turtles – mostly hawksbill turtles – hatch and then crawl into the sea under the moon and stars. The extremely rare Aldabra giant tortoise, which weighs over 250 kilos and is often over 100 years old, is also at home here. They can be observed particularly well on the islands of Cousin or Curieuse. Horse fans can enjoy a romantic ride along Barbarons Beach on Mahé.
Local, fresh ingredients on the plate
The combination of Indian, African and international cuisine also makes the Seychelles a favourite among foodies. One of the particularly delicious local specialities is octopus chapati, which is offered at the many food stalls on the beach. Upscale local cuisine can be savoured at the atmospheric Paris Seychelles right on the waterfront. Marie Antoinette in Victoria is the oldest restaurant in the Indian Ocean, serving Cajun and Creole dishes.
Spend the night on the dream island
The main island of Mahé in particular offers a considerable number of beautiful hotels. One of these is the luxurious Iaïla, a Tribute Portfolio Resort in the heart of Anse Royale, which opened last year and offers a fully integrated village experience and interaction with the local community. New this year are the modern boutique hotel The Canopy by Hilton and the Cheval Blanc, both also on Mahé. The latter pays homage to Creole traditions and awaits guests with 52 villas with private pools and magnificent views of the beach, the hills or the tropical jungle. For a stay in a class of its own, the exclusive Waldorf Astoria Seychelles welcomes guests on the private island of Platte, 130 kilometres south of Mahé and only accessible by private plane.
