Baja California, Mexico
Cabo San Lucas
Cabo San Lucas is located at the southern tip of the Mexican peninsula of Baja California – a popular destination for water sports enthusiasts, golfers and beach lovers. With fantastic beaches and numerous leisure activities on and in the water, it attracts visitors from all over the world. From November, Condor will be flying from Zurich via Frankfurt to Los Cabos on Sundays and Wednesdays.
Surfing paradise Cabo San Lucas
Cabo San Lucas is a dream destination for surfers: constant waves and a variety of surf spots allow beginners and professionals to surf all year round. From May to October, surfing in the Sea of Cortez is recommended, while the Pacific side is more suitable from November to April. Whether surfing or stand-up paddling – everyone gets their money’s worth here.
«The aquarium of the world»
Also known as the «Aquarium of the World» Cabo San Lucas offers ideal conditions for diving fans with its pleasant water temperatures. Here, two seas merge to create a unique underwater world that is particularly known for its variety of migratory large fish. Schools of hammerhead sharks, mobulas, silky sharks and whales pass by here, while playful sea lions often make for unforgettable encounters.
Mexico’s golf mecca
With over 18 golf courses – some of which are world-class – Cabo San Lucas is a paradise for golfers. The courses offer breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean or the Sea of Cortez, set against an impressive mountain backdrop. The renowned courses of Questro Golf, Cabo del Sol Golf Club and Palmilla Golf Club are particularly popular.
Beaches to fall in love with
For those who like it a little quieter, Baja California offers numerous sandy beaches. Idyllic beaches such as Lovers Beach and Chileno Beach invite you to swim and linger. The striking granite arch of Cabo San Lucas, known as «El Arco», is clearly visible from Lovers Beach. Playa El Médano, with its numerous restaurants and bars, provides a lively atmosphere and rounds off the beach life perfectly.
Moments of pleasure
It’s hard to avoid tacos in Mexico. Particularly popular in Cabo San Lucas: fish or shrimp tacos – served with salsa and fresh lime slices. Fish soup and smoked or grilled fish are also very popular. A local delicacy are the «Chocolate Clams», which owe their name to the chocolate-coloured shells of the mussels. For fish dishes and breathtaking views, we recommend the El Farallon restaurant, steaks at the Taqueria Narissa and Mexican specialities at the Cabo Cantina.
Oases of peace
The One&Only Palmilla is undoubtedly one of the most luxurious resorts in Mexico and is characterised by authentic Mexican traditions and breathtaking views of the Sea of Cortez. Equally impressive is the elegant adults-only Breathless Cabo San Lucas Resort & Spa, which is located on Medano Beach and offers a fantastic view of the marina. The Waldorf Astoria Los Cabos Pedregal also impresses with its location directly on the beach and offers pure luxury.
The land of the pharaohs
Egypt
Egypt, the land of the pharaohs, impresses with its rich historical heritage. Museums, pyramids and temples make it a fascinating destination. A two- to three-day stay in Cairo followed by a four- to six-day Nile cruise offers a deep insight into the country’s culture and history. From November to May, Edelweiss flies to Giza, west of Cairo.
Ancient Egyptian culture
If you want to immerse yourself in the art of ancient Egypt, the Egyptian Museum in Cairo is the largest museum of its kind. It houses the world’s largest collection of pharaonic antiquities and displays artefacts from various periods of ancient Egyptian culture and history, from pre-dynastic to Greco-Roman times. As the oldest archaeological museum in the Middle East, it is a must-see for history buffs.
Cairo’s masterpieces
Just half an hour’s drive from Cairo are the pyramids of Giza – one of the oldest and most famous monuments of mankind and the only surviving one of the seven wonders of the ancient world. Another landmark of Giza is the Great Sphinx, probably the most famous monumental sculpture in Egypt and one of the most recognisable statues in the world. The 20-metre-high sphinx, which depicts a reclining lion with a human head, impresses with its size and symbolic power.
Nile cruise
Travelling on a Dahabeya, a majestic sailing ship with roots in ancient Egyptian history, is a peaceful and idyllic experience. On board, you can enjoy the tranquillity of the sun deck and experience life along the Nile up close. The journey offers numerous opportunities to visit villages, markets and monuments and immerse yourself in Egyptian culture. Freshly prepared meals are served in picturesque locations by the river and the evenings end in an atmospheric setting under the twinkling starry sky.
Flying high in Luxor
Luxor, once the glamorous capital of the pharaohs, lies on the east bank of the Nile and impresses with imposing buildings such as the Luxor Temple and the Karnak Temple. On the west bank of the Nile lie the famous royal tombs in the Valley of the Kings. The majestic beauty of Luxor can be enjoyed particularly well from the air on a balloon flight at sunrise. At a height of up to 450 metres, the balloon floats over the Valley of the Kings, the temples and many other historical sites. There is also a breathtaking view of the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Thebes as the sun rises over the desert and the Nile.
Memnon colossi
Not far from the Valley of the Kings in Thebes-West, two ancient Egyptian colossal statues rise majestically from the ground. The two faceless statues, which originally depicted Pharaoh Amenhotep III, rise around 18 metres high from the plain and were erected in 1379 BC at the side of the entrance to his mortuary and memorial temple. The imposing colossi, each carved from a single block of stone and weighing around 1’000 tonnes, once marked the eastern entrance to the larger temple complex on the west side.
Culinary delights
The Egyptian national dish Kushari – a savoury mixture of pasta, Egyptian rice and brown lentils – should be tried at least once. For a dinner with a 360-degree view over Cairo, the Revolving Restaurant is a good choice. In the heart of the city, the Culina restaurant offers an impressive buffet of local and international cuisine. For cocktails with a view, the Nox Rooftop Bar at the Ritz Carlton is the perfect choice, while Zooba serves contemporary Egyptian cuisine.
Nights to dream
Close to the pyramids of Giza, the Marriott Mena House is the top address for first-class comfort and a breathtaking view. For a stay in the city, we recommend the elegant St. Regis, the Four Seasons at Nile Plaza, The Nile Ritz-Carlton or the Kempinski Nile Hotel Garden City. The Oberoi Zahra is ideal for a luxurious Nile cruise. We also recommend the Sanctuary Zein Nile Chateau, the Sanctuary Sun Boat IV and III with their own pool and the Sanctuary Nile Adventurer.
Recreation and cultural treasures in Malta
Malta, Gozo and Comino
Nestled between Sicily and Tunisia lies the dream destination of Malta. The archipelago in the Mediterranean comprises a total of 21 islands, only three of which are inhabited – the main island of Malta, Gozo and Comino. Known for its crystal-clear waters and long days of sunshine, the historic archipelago enchants travellers with three UNESCO World Heritage Sites, beautiful beaches, a varied interior and a relaxed atmosphere throughout. From Zurich, Swiss flies daily to Malta in around two hours.
Valletta
Malta’s charming capital Valletta is located on a peninsula on the east coast, surrounded by thick fortress walls. With just under 6,000 inhabitants, the smallest capital city in the world is home to numerous sights and buildings steeped in history, which is why it has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1980. The narrow streets are lined with historic buildings with the typical colourful bay windows and balconies, between all kinds of shops and authentic cafés and restaurants that invite you to linger.
St. John’s Co-Cathedral
St. John’s Co-Cathedral sits enthroned in the centre of Valletta. It was built in 1573 after the Great Siege and has had a significant impact on the country, its history and culture in its formative years. The cathedral is a wonderful example of Baroque architecture: while it appears rather plain from the outside, its interior is resplendent with ornate decorations, lots of gold and impressive paintings, including some by the early Baroque master Caravaggio.
Upper Barrakka Gardens
One of the most beautiful views awaits travellers from the romantic Upper Barakka Gardens high above Valletta’s Grand Harbour. Originally laid out in 1661 as private gardens and training grounds for the Knights of the Italian Tongue, the park is now open to the public and offers an uninterrupted panoramic view of the harbour with the towns of Birgu, Senglea and Cospicua in the background. An ideal place for a cosy picnic among fragrant bushes, flowers and imposing statues created by important artists such as the Maltese sculptor Antonino Sciortino.
Blue Grotte
In the south-east of the island of Malta lies the legendary Blue Grotto – a naturally formed complex of seven sea caves. With their towering rock formations and crystal-clear sea pools, they cast a spell over travellers. After arriving by boat, the grotto invites you to swim, dive and snorkel. The full beauty of this natural wonder is revealed in the sunlight, when the water shimmers azure and cobalt blue and the cave walls reflect the bright phosphorescent colours of the underwater flora. A magical interplay of light and colour.
Comino and Gozo
The Valletta Ferry Service takes you to the offshore islands of Comino and Gozo. While tiny Comino with its Blue Lagoon – one of the most beautiful beaches on the Maltese islands – is one of the most popular excursion destinations, the green sister island of Gozo is still relatively undiscovered. It attracts visitors with unspoilt sandy beaches, megalithic temples, nostalgic architecture including the impressive citadel in the capital Victoria and numerous sports opportunities for outdoor fans. For an authentic start to the day, visit the market directly below the citadel, where the locals meet daily and chat about God and the world.
Fresh cuisine
Due to their location in the middle of the Mediterranean, fish is very popular on the Maltese islands and is wonderfully freshly prepared in the local restaurants. Fenek, a traditional rabbit stew, and Kapunata, a flavourful sweet and sour salad made from local vegetables, are also often on the menu. For indulgent evenings, we recommend Azar in Sliema, which conjures up modern dishes using traditional cooking methods. Traditional Mediterranean cuisine is lovingly served at Wigi’s Kitchen restaurant in St Julians. In Valletta, gourmets will get their money’s worth at the Michelin restaurant Noni.
Spend the night in Malta
Sleep like a fairy tale in the sophisticated Palais le Bruin, a seventeenth-century baroque palace that combines luxury, comfort and traditional Maltese architecture. In the heart of Valletta’s historic district, the 5-star hotel awaits its guests with luxurious rooms and a rooftop terrace with pool. Not far away is the beautiful boutique hotel Palazzo Bifora, whose colours reflect the Maltese flora. Located directly on the coast of Sliema, with an unobstructed view of the Mediterranean Sea and Valletta, the architecturally unique Barceló Fortina Malta invites you to linger.
