This is Fischland-Darß:

Fischland-Darß peninsula stretches over 45 kilometres in length and offers fine sandy beaches lined by  beautiful dune landscapes

I already heard and read a lot about the peninsula Fischland-Darß, the popular vacation region in the north of Germany, a very hip weekend destination – not only for Berliners – less than two and a half hours drive from the capital. Since I decided to cancel all my travel plans to other European countries because of Corona this year, the time had finally come: Off to the Baltic Sea, or more precisely, to Ahrenshoop, a picturesque village in the middle of the island.

A typical house with a thatched roof

Already at the end of the 19th century Ahrenshoop attracted numerous artists, including the painters Elisabeth von Eicken, Anna Gerresheim, Oskar Frenzel and Paul Müller-Kaempf. They founded an artists’ colony on the Darß, which attracted other artists, writers and sculptors to the 45-kilometre-long peninsula. Today, Ahrenshoop is still a place of art, with numerous galleries, the “Kunstmuseum” and the “Kunstkaten”, which in turn explains the magnetic attraction that Ahrenshoop exerts on VIPs of all stripes: Whether BossHoss singer Alec Völkel, the actor couple Anna Loos and Jan Josef Liefers or Germany’s former Federal President Joachim Gauck, they all love the new hotspot on the Baltic Sea coast. The fresh sea air, the wide beaches, the unique island location with the Baltic Sea on the west side and the “Darß-Zingster Bodden” chain on the east side also inspired me.

The Baltic Sea on the right, the Darß-Zingster Bodden chain on the left, in the front the hotel “Namenlos”

In Ahrenshoop the peninsula is so narrow that you can easily walk from the Bodden to the seaside. Or you can cycle the 28.5-kilometre route from the “Wilden West”-Beach to the historic Darßer Lighthouse in the north, past beautiful landscapes up to Prerow or Zingst.
Cycling enjoys great popularity here for good reason. Those who prefer to hike through the 786 square kilometres of the national park with the “Darßer Urwald”, a rustic forest, ride out on the beach or train stand-up paddling in the sea will find the ideal conditions at Fischland-Darß. (SUP rental for example at beach crossing eight in Ahrenshoop, 22 Euros per hour).

The 786 square kilometer national park on Fischland-Darß – a worthwhile destination even in autumn (Photo: Internet)

The Darß also has a lot to offer in terms of culinary delights. I enjoy an opulent breakfast in a beach chair, with a view over the sea from the terrace of my hotel “The Grand” in Ahrenshoop, which incidentally has a great rooftop bar with a panoramic view. The perfect address for sundowners and a glass of the Spanish rosé “Esmeralda” (10 Euros) – In times of Corona currently only possible with reservation; if you like, stay here for dinner and let the cool cooks of the “Wild Pots” spoil you. As sea air is known to stimulate the appetite, I’m ready for the delicious homemade cake in “Die Mühle” in the afternoon. The mill is idyllically situated in a large garden, where I order plum cake from the tin and “Landlust” apple spritzer under the watchful eye of curious sheep. In the cold season one sits comfortably in the large guest room of the mill. Friends of the Asian cuisine will love the hip “Mr. Hoshi”, the only Far Eastern restaurant on the island and a real spot for gourmets. They serve excellent Tom Kha Gai soup (12 Euros), followed by cod fillet (28 Euros); the view of the sea and the sunset is free of charge.

Sunset on the roof terrace of the chic restaurant “Mr. Hoshi” …

…where we feasted on scallops, prawns with baby spinach, truffles and stir-fried vegetables and tataki, beef in soy-ginger sauce

What I particularly liked in Ahrenshoop were the many houses under thatched roofs in the midst of beautiful gardens, which give the place a touching romanticism. The architecture here is very individual, far from the mainstream à la Sylt. If you stroll along the village street in Ahrenshoop, past the inviting cafés and small stores, it becomes clear that the island has nothing uniform. A casual, informal lifestyle reigns here. This unpretentiousness is probably the secret why Ahrenshoop and Fischland-Darß is and remains a place of longing for many. BvH

Sunsets like in the south

Info Fischland-Darß:

High in the north – in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania – lies the Baltic Sea peninsula Fischland-Darß between Rostock and Stralsund (Graphic: Internet)

Shopping in Ahrenshoop:

Ready to go shopping…

…in the nice shops on the Dorfstraße of Ahrenshoop…

The main institution of Ahrenshoop is the “Bunte Stube”: For ninety years, the red and white Bauhaus architecture has been a popular spot for artists and culture fans, who buy bestselling or regional literature in the well-stocked bookstore, the daily newspaper or buy arts and crafts

In the “Wohndiele” I find beautiful things for my Berlin home

Eating in Ahrenshoop:

How about a cup of tea in the lovely café  “Die Mühle”?

Here organic food is served…for example yummy plum cake from the tray with freshly whipped cream and a tasty “Landlust”-apple juice…

Best location to chill out? The roof terrace of the hotel “The Grand”…

…with a panoramic view of the Bodden and the Baltic Sea

No vacation at the sea without freshly caught fish: “Matjes in a housewife-style” or a delicious pike-perch filet is what I like best in the “Räucherhaus”…

…For delicious smoked fish I go to the nearby, rustic snack bar “Zur Reuse”, a real insider tip

The famous “Zeesenboote” with their distinctive brown-red sails set sail in the port of Althagen. Since 2018, the Zeesenboot sailing has been a UNESCO world cultural heritage site. The boats leave daily from 10 a.m. (sailing time: 1.5 hours, tickets: children 8 Euros, adults 15 Euros, May to October). Good to know: The term “zeesen” is derived from the – today no longer practiced – catching technique. The sails were set against the wind, so the boat sailed across the wind and pulled a large net behind it.

Staying overnight on Fischland-Darß:

For example in “The Grand” in Ahrenshoop…

…from here you can enjoy the view of the Baltic Sea from many rooms

Beside various hotels, like “The Grand” or “Hotel Namenlos” you can also find pretty, privately run pensions and vacation apartments on Fischland-Darß, like the picturesque pension “Otty-Kaysel-Haus”, one of the founding houses of the former artists’ colony Ahrenshoop, located in an enchanted garden and still family-owned today

Art and Architecture on Fischland-Darß:

Art in elaborate architecture: In the art museum of Ahrenshoop, mainly artists with regional reference and the history of the place are shown

One of the famous “Kunstkaten” on Fischland-Darß

The boatmen’s church (Schifferkirche) of Ahrenshoop, which looks like the bow of a boat

Could be the home of Snow White and the seven dwarfs

Romantic, thatched houses in Ahrenshoop on Fischland-Darß

Motifs like painted … here again “Die Mühle”, the mill in Ahrenshoop from a different perspective

Bye, Fischland-Darß! Unfortunately, it’s time to say goodbye for MyStylery. The good news: I’ll be back!

The post A perfect day on Fischland-Darß appeared first on My Stylery.

Not only the skyscrapers of Dubai amaze me, the architecture of the desert city is just spectacular. In the lower right you can see the brightly lit Dubai Mall, where you can find an ice rink as well as over 1,000 shops

Welcome to Dubai, the city of superlatives with the world’s highest skyscraper, the world’s largest shopping mall, the world’s largest occurrence of luxury hotels and luxury cars. Where yesterday was a desert, today the largest city in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) stretches, with international architects’ vertiginous creations. There is probably no city that has grown faster. And the construction boom does not stop. Dubai is the hotspot of the Persian Gulf, attracting 16 million tourists a year, fleeing European winter to combine beach holidays with power shopping. After reporting about Downtown Dubai, the souks and sightseeing highlights as well as the art scene and the most beautiful, public beaches in part I of my Dubai adventure, I now share my experiences about a desert safari, the island The Palm and one of the most beautiful hotels in the Persian Gulf area. But one after another…

On “The Palm Jumeirah” – the palm-shaped artificial island of Dubai – is the Resort Atlantis, a 50-hectare amusement complex and theme park

Who does not reside on the palm-shaped peninsula The Palm Jumeirah, should definitely plan a trip to the 2001 accumulated area. Here, private villas and five-star hotels accumulate like pearls on a string – the rooms in high season (November to April) are from 300 euros upwards!

The spectacular architecture of Dubais latest luxury spot The Bulgari Resort was realized by the Italian design office Antonio Citterio with a filigree facade that is reminiscent of corals

The finest and most beautiful hotel in Dubai is, in my opinion, the luxury hotel Bulgari Resort, which opened in late 2017 with excellent restaurants and an extraordinary spa. Instead of glitter and bling-bling, the guest can expect a discreet, modern design in warm colors and materials. The 101 rooms in total are equipped with high-quality details such as cashmere plaids, cedar shoe straps and a large Bulgari beach bag. Even a yoga mat was thought of, which I greatly appreciate as a yoga fan. The absolute highlight are the 20 noble villas that line the bay with its private beach. In addition to a butler service, they have their own pools in secluded gardens. On the sandy beach, the guest can book private pavilions, which are equipped with a small bathroom, bar, towels, sunscreen and what else you need for a pleasant day on the beach. Anyone can and wants to, docks in the Bulgari Resort with their own ship, because the luxurious five-star plus hotel has its own marina and club. (Deluxe room with beach view from 890 euros per night).

The suites and villas are decorated in warm colors and fine materials: Under the bed a Moroccan Beni Ourain carpet, on the bed a Bulgari cashmere plaid

My most impressing Dubai adventure: A dinner-sunset-safari in the Red Dunes (Safari: 70 euros per person via Arabian Adventures). With a 4×4 vehicle, we drive through the Red Sand Desert of Dubai with stops in front of a fantastic dune landscape. In time for the sunset with an XXL sun on the shimmering sky, an aperitif is being served before continuing by jeep over the sometimes steep and vertiginous desert slopes. I am lucky and see camel herds, gazelles and onyxes on the way. The evening ends in a Bedouin camp with delicious barbecue, camel ride and – if desired – a henna tattoo. Fascinating is the starry sky over the desert, a glitter and sparkle, so incomparable and intense, that one does not want to avert the view.

Dubai is a city of contrasts, unmissable is the socio-political contradiction. And yet a fairy tale from 1001 Nights that fascinates. BvH

Tip Dubai:

Can you afford Dubai as a person on average wage? Indeed, if known how: Who can tolerate temperatures of 30 degrees plus, should plan his trip from the end of April. I visited Dubai in May – during the Muslim month of fasting Ramadan* – and experienced a relaxed metropolis in which, despite religious restrictions, tourists hardly perceive differences. Shops and several restaurants are also open during the day, in the hotels alcohol is served, where a wine can quickly cost 15 or 20 euros – per glass. Overnight stays in the luxury hotels are offered for half the usual price and the sightseeing highlights barely have waiting time. (*Ramadan 2020 from April 24 to May 24)

Me on a sand dune during the “Sundowner Dune Dinner Safari” with Arabian Adventures. A perfect desert tour, but the so-called “dune bashing” is not for everyone

Over two-thirds of the United Arab Emirates are occupied by the northern foothills of the Great Arab Desert (Rub al-Chali)

A sundowner and an extraordinary backdrop… The silence and vastness of the Red Dunes desert have impressed me the most

The desert tour ends with a lavish barbecue in a Bedouin camp

… before, there is a traditional dance performance, which is only performed by men during Ramadan…

The camp’s camel herds…

…me cuddling with one of the camels…

…here my new friend again in profile; Look at these incredibly long eyelashes!!!

My henna tattoo. It lasted six weeks, by the way. Since you should think about, where the tattoo is placed and if it fits at home in everyday life or to the job

The Bulgari Resort Dubai on a private peninsula infront of Jumeirah Beach

The exclusive beach pavilions at the Bulgari Resort are reminiscent of Asian safari tents and are each equipped with a small bathroom, kitchenette, towels, etc.

View from the balcony of a suite to the hotel’s private beach with the Dubai skyline and the outstanding and overtopping Burj Khalifa in the background

One of 20 private villas with private pools and butler service. More is not possible…

Exactly my taste: The rooms of the villas and suites with Italian design and furniture by Maxalto, Flos and Flexform for great comfort and cosiness

Attentive and lovingly prepared delicacies for a very personal anniversary: I was touched

Again the view to my own pool terrace, where you can relax on loungers by B&B Italia

Pure luxury: The private infinity pool of the 540 square meter presidential villa. Paradise is calling…

Protected under a coral canopy: The 1,700 square meter spa area with comfortable outdoor daybeds and a view to the Gulf

The next surprise awaited me in the spa after a relaxing massage… It will also make my stay at the Bulgari Resort Dubai unforgettable

On the way to downtown, you will pass the futuristically inspired and pioneering architecture, which is typical for Dubai

From the island The Palm, I can see the coast and the famous, sail-shaped hotel Burj Al Arab, the symbol of Dubai. If you want to spend a night in a deluxe suite, you have to fork out 1,600 euros – per night of course

Me infront of Dubai’s landmark, the luxury hotel Burj Al Arab. Only hotel guests have access. Unless you have a reservation for the “Skybar” on the 27th floor, preferably at sunset

…followed by a dinner in the underwater restaurant Al Mahara. Everything here is just wow, including the prices…

…and the encounter with impressive – and sometimes quite scary – sea creatures. The sensational sight of the underwater world with its rays, sharks etc. is after all free of charge

أنت تعيش مرة واحدة فقط – you only live ones: Friday night in Dubai is the night of the nights and it is celebrated. The trendy in-restaurant Zuma serves Asian-European dishes. A Wagyu steak costs 215 euros, the bottle of rosé wine 125 euros and a Cosmopolitan cocktail 15 euros

See you soon in Dubai:

The next Dubai highlight will be the world exhibition Expo from October 2020 to April 2021

More travel stories you can here.
Part I of my Dubai adventure you can find here.

The post Dubai – The hotspot in the Middle East, Part II appeared first on My Stylery.

What a View: Vista from the 148th floor of Burj Khalifa to Downtown Dubai and the XXL-Dubai Fountain

Dubai, the city of superlatives with the world’s highest skyscraper, the world’s largest shopping mall, the world’s largest occurrence of luxury hotels and luxury cars. Where yesterday was a desert, today the largest city in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) stretches, with international architects’ vertiginous creations. There is probably no city that has grown faster. And the construction boom does not stop. Dubai is the hotspot of the Persian Gulf, attracting 16 million tourists a year fleeing European winter to combine beach holidays with power shopping.

With 828 meters the tallest building in the world: The Burj Khalifa

This is the home of luxury. In top hotels such as the Armani and The One and Only Royal Mirage, a night in the high season costs well over a thousand Euros. Not only for overnighters one has to dig deep into the pocket. Even sightseeing makes the budget shrink. A visit to Burj Khalifa, which is 828 meters high, is part of the Dubai visit. Here, the purchase of an online ticket with Fast Track is recommended to avoid the hours-long queues, especially in the high season (November to April): With the 30 Euro basic ticket you can get on the 124th floor of the elegant skyscraper in seconds. In the “ticket without queuing” for 120 Euros, the viewing platforms on the 125th and 148th floor are also included. The visit is worth it, because you can experience spectacular sunsets, views reaching to the desert and the Dubai Fountain, the XXL fountain, that invites to fascinating water shows  every night from 19.30 o’clock for free. These can also be watched from one of the surrounded restaurants of the Dubai Mall, such as the Katana (sushi from 15 Euros). Great is the restaurant Zeta which lies below the excellent Address Hotel Downtown with direct views of the Dubai Fountain and excellent Asian food. Speaking of cuisine: Highly recommended is the Galliard Brasserie (also in the Address Hotel Downtown), where I first enjoyed an avocado salmon tartare and then a mega-delicious truffle pizza. Yummy!

Huge sculptures at the waterfall in the Dubai Mall

“Shop till you drop” – was this saying invented for Dubai? Every (luxury-) label is represented in Dubai’s largest shopping mall with 1,200 stores. Overall, shopping is expensive, both among international designers and fashion chains such as Zara, where the collections cost about one third more than in Europe. Exceptions are the Dubai Shopping Festival (January 1 to February 2, 2020) and the end of Ramadan*, the month of fasting, when huge discounts and discount promotions attract shoppers to the desert city.

Fancy a break? Then off to the aquarium (admission 25 Euros) with 30,000 exotic sea creatures, who buster in a million liters of water. Tip: A gigantic window on the ground floor of the Dubai Mall offers a free view of sharks, rays & co.

In front of the entrance of Grand Bazaar in Dubai

And yes, there is still the original in Dubai: I cross the river Creek in an Abra (25 Cent), an open wooden boat, past old barges, the so-called Dhaus, which still transport goods across the water. For me, a stroll through the oriental souks in Arab countries is part of the deal, because I love the smell of spices and the hustle and bustle. Haggling is welcomed! Unfortunately, the dealers in Dubai’s Grand Bazaar and the Gold Souk are very intrusive. In the oldest part of Dubai, I stroll through the districts of Bur Dubai and Bastakiya, a restored fairytale setting with narrow streets, small shops, galleries, cafes and the Dubai Museum in the historic Al-Fahidi Fort. Tip: The boutique hotel XVA with historic wind tower house. Since 2003, the US-American Mona Hauser has been running her hotel with an art gallery and café with much dedication (overnight from 149 Euros).

Not only for art lovers: The Art District in the industrial area around the Al Serkal Avenue

To art lovers, I recommend the Art District in the industrial area around the Al Serkal Avenue. Both, established galleries and young artists have settled here in factory halls. In the surrounding hip coffee shops and food trucks, the many impressions can be processed with smoothies and co.

Relax on the beach: The family-friendly District La Mer offers a water park in a quiet bay, surrounded by red brick buildings in trendy industrial chic with cafes, restaurants and shops. Really casual! At Jumeirah Beach, you can sprawl on daybeds, extend yourself on a jet ski and refresh in one of the many restaurants that string together at the white-sanded beach mile.

Skyscrapers and snow-white beach mile at Jumeirah Beach

Dubai, a sunshine paradise that can be reached in just under eight hours by plane and takes the traveler to another, mysteriously world. BvH

Infos Dubai:

Arrival to Dubai: With Lufthansa or Emirates Airline (from 645 Euros)
On the go in Dubai: E.g. Green and red metro line (daily ticket five Euros)

*Ramadan 2020 from April 24 to May 24

Don’t miss:

Dubai, Part II with tips for a desert safari and my personal insights into the most beautiful luxury hotel, the Bulgari Resort Dubai.
Coming soon on MyStylery.

Overlooking the silhouette of Dubai from the artificial island The Palm

Hip: The industrial-style district La Mer…

…directly located by the beach and with fantastic sightlines to Dubai’s skyline

Overlooking Dubai

For example from the Dubai Frame, with 150 meters height – another observation deck in town (admission 15 Euros)

View from the 148th floor of Burj Khalifa into 800 meters depth…I still felt safe, although I look a bit pale

The viewing platform on the 124th floor of Burj Khalifa is included in the basic admission ticket

Inexpensive Sightseeing: With an Abra – a traditional wooden boat – across the Creek river…

…which connects the districts Bur Dubai and Bastakiya with Deira…

… where, for example, the souks are situated. Here’s the Gold Souk – lots of bling-bling for not always little money

Address Hotel Downtown Dubai

The Address Hotel Downtown…

…with excellent gastronomy like the Brasserie Galliard…

…where I had delicious truffled pizza

View from my suite at the Address Hotel Downtown to the spectacular evening light show at the Burj Khalifa …

…with changing illumination of its façade…

…and an impressive water show at the Dubai Fountain

Swimming in the cooled (!) pool with a backdrop of the highest building in the world the Burj Khalifa…

…and then relaxing on the luxurious daybeds: Both is possible here

A wonderful alternative: The boutique hotel XVA in the old part of Dubai

Don’t miss Dubai, Part II, coming soon on MyStylery!
More travel stories you can find here.

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No question about it: The historic buildings with their lush gold decor around the Brussels Town Hall are one of a kind

Perhaps it was because of my previous visit to beautiful Bruges, or perhaps simply because of a romantically transfigured memory of a visit to Brussels 25 years ago: My current encounter with Europe’s capital disappointed me at first. Only on the second day my mood brightened up, which was due to the fact that I discovered the trendy districts Saint Gilles and Ixelles.

Palais du Roi: At home with the King…

But first my impression of day one: Normally there are numerous cafés and restaurants around Place Jourdan in front of my hotel Sofitel, where you can sit outside. If it weren’t for the current major construction site. In the opposite brasserie “L’Esprit de Sel” – a recommendation of the hotel concierge – I ate a very moderate goat cheese salad and Belgian meatballs and I wondered to what extent grey building rubble and unspeakable noise influence the quality of a meal or even the basic mood of the cook? After all, the next morning I was compensated with a good breakfast in the “Or Espresso Bar”. Here the young avant-garde sits above their computers and enjoys the supposedly best coffee in town. I tasted the freshly baked sourdough bread with homemade jam and an organic Earl Grey before I went to the Atomium by metro. Not original, but a must see for every visitor to Brussels.

The Atomium and I

Back in the city centre. My tour started at the church Saint Cathérine at the square of the same name, around which nice restaurants invite for lunch. Then I went to the adjacent boulevard Antoine Dansaert, where, according to my travel guide, the chic boutiques of Belgian designers are located. Nope. Apart from the “A Suivre” boutique with the brands Vanessa Bruno, Barbara Bui, Joseph, Isabel Marant and some Belgian designers, grey dreariness was the order of the day. I went all the way to the stock exchange, where, in view of the dubious figures around the Place de Bourse, I preferred to quickly find my way around. Neither the Grand Place with its baroque gilded facades and the impressive town hall nor Manneken Pis could really fascinate me. Not to mention the alleys around it with junk shops and rip-off restaurants. Passing the Place du Grand Sablon, the Royal Library and the Royal Palace Palais du Roi, I landed in the Parc de Bruxelles, where I finally had the feeling of being able to breathe again.

Green lung of Brussels: Parc de Bruxelles

Brussels – and this is not really surprising – is dominated by Europe, its policies and its diplomats. Modern skyscrapers, in which the European Committee is housed, dominate an entire quarter, the Quartier Européen. If this is your first visit to Brussels, you should check it out.

House of the European Commission

Day two: My personal highlight were the districts Ixelles and Saint Gilles. My way to get there was along the Boulevard de Waterloo, where all renowned labels and luxury boutiques present themselves, from Prada to Chanel and Gucci. From there the street leads into Avenue Louise, where cheaper brands like Zara, Tommy Hilfiger or my new favourite label Essentiel-Antwerp are represented. I have seen original, individual shops and boutiques on the Rue du Bailli and Rue Africaine, around the church Saint Trinité in the middle of Ixelles. A district where many facades bear witness to the splendour of the Belle Epoque or are still waiting to be restored to their full beauty. My goal was to visit the Horta-Museum, once the home of Victor Horta, the creator of Art Nouveau. Good to know: The museum opens from 14.00 to 17.30 and is closed on Mondays. From here you have an ideal starting point to explore the many Art Nouveau facades of Brussels. Just follow the Chaussee de Charleroi and its extension Avenue Brugmann – the demarcation line of the Saint Gilles and Ixelles districts – and drift along its small streets. A highlight of urban elegance and classical architecture is the area around Avenue du Haut Pont, Rue Franz Merjay, Place Brugmann and Avenue Louis Lepoutre.

Dreamy Brussels: The Saint Gilles and Ixelles hoods

Here, in the Rue Franz Merjay, I stopped by the small bistro “Chez Franz” and ordered a goat cheese salad. This time it tasted delicious, including the oven-warm baguette served with it. Madame Danielle, an elegant, communicative Brussels-based, sitting at the next table, explained the spirit of her city to me and gave me wonderful tips for the rest of the day. So I strolled along the perhaps most beautiful promenade in Brussels, the Etangs d’Ixelles, situated on two long ponds. On the way there I made a detour through the small, enchanted park Tenbosch. Almost reminiscent of an exotic biotope, this green oasis turned out to be a real insider tip. Am I really in the middle of a pulsating big city, I thought to myself and enjoyed the moment. Brussels, a city of contrasts. BvH

A good breakfast is served in the „Or Espresso Bar“

The Atomium was the main pavilion at 1958 World’s Fair. Engineer André Waterkeyn and the architects André and Jean Polak were responsible for the design of Brussels landmark building

Brussels Town Hall: Even on rainy days a tourist magnet

Beautiful garden at the Royal Library of Belgium

Label to watch: Essentiel Antwerp

Around Place Saint Cathérine nice restaurants invite for lunch

An eyecatcher: Boutique “A Suivre” on Boulevard Antoine Dansaert

Around the Saint Trinité church, Rue du Bailli and Rue Africaine original, individual shops and boutiques are situated…

…like the concept store Mellow…

…and the Boutique Bonzai…

Around 1,500 houses in the most beautiful Art Nouveau style can still be admired in Brussels today

Open your eyes: Beautifully restored houses, sometimes reminiscent of English townhouses…

…Art Nouveau pearls with lush decor, little towers, oriels and balustrades…

…and imposing portals

Walking through the districts with watchful eyes…

…you will discover the architectural beauty and diversity of Brussels

Here you can make your credit card glow effortlessly: The Boutique „Cachemire Coton Soie“

Delicious food, nice staff and located in the trendy Saint Gilles area: The Bistro-Restaurant „Chez Franz“…

…where I highly recommend the goat cheese salad. In addition a glass of rosé wine: Santé!

I particularly like the playful facades and gables with the many chimneys, although I only warmed up with Brussels at second glance

More travel stories you can find here.

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Caribbean feeling on Portugal’s Atlantic coast Alentejo, which stretches from Troia to Melides. Here you can see the dream beach Praia do Pega in Carvalhal

I must admit that last summer I was a bit limited in my enthusiasm for my favourite island Ibiza. Apart from the ever-increasing party tourism, the island has developed into a high-priced, overcrowded in-spot. Tables in the restaurant must be ordered weeks in advance. Hotel rooms during the season often cost 500 Euros and more per night. The beaches are full and the streets are congested. Equipped with tips from my Dusseldorf friend Guido, I went to Portugal instead of the Balearic Islands. More precisely to the Alentejo coast, a good hour’s drive south of Lisbon.

The turquoise sea, almost for me alone

First realization: They still exist, the – almost – undiscovered landscapes. Fine sandy, deserted beaches, unspoilt nature. A 60 (!) kilometre stretch of coast that was previously privately owned by Portugal’s largest banking family, Espirito Santo, and since its insolvency a few years ago has been developed gradually and under considerable environmental conditions. Whoever comes to Comporta expects NOTHING. Except pure nature. Hip nightlife, natty restaurants, glamorous luxury boutiques or award-winning seven-star hotels can’t be found in Comporta and its surroundings. Here the motto is: ociosidade relaxada – sweet and relaxed idleness. This special kind of seclusion has attracted some celebrities to the area. The painter Anselm Kiefer, shoe designer Christian Louboutin, the Cinzano family, Princess Caroline von Hannover have their latifundia in or at Comporta. Since it is known that pop star Madonna has an eye on the area, others are taking a closer look as well.

The beach bar of the restaurant Sal

These include investors who have quickly recognized the potential of Comporta and now commercialise it as the Hamptons of Europe. I don’t think the comparison is appropriate. Neither a million-dollar villa is lined up along the coast – it is not allowed to build here within a kilometre of the waterline. Still one gives something on other status symbols in Comporta. The pine forests and sandy soils remind me, as a North German, in their barrenness, rather of the North Sea island of Sylt. Passing cork oak groves, the journey from Lisbon to Comporta leads along endless rice fields in which the sky reflects and gives the impression that the rice is growing in the clouds.

How about having lunch with a view?

At Praia do Pega in Carvahal I walk in the soft, white sand into infinity, accompanied by the surf of the Atlantic Ocean, until a wave washes me into the restaurant Sal, one of only three beach restaurants in the area. In flip flops and windbreakers you are by no means underdressed here. On the contrary. The other lunch guests don’t care. And the freshly caught sole, which is served here with lemon and delicious olive oil, certainly not at all. I sit with a fantastic view of the sea and in the midst of many French people, whole clans with whom Comporta has enjoyed great popularity since its opening. The atmosphere is relaxed, the service is especially nice, the food is great. So are the prices. In the otherwise rather inexpensive Portugal some restaurants as well as the only hotel near Comporta, the Sublime – a chic boutique hotel in the Cabana style – have already arrived in the upper segment.

A hint of romance in Comporta, a 1,500-inhabitant village on the coast of Alentejo

But it still exists, this originality, where the village elders sit on the market square and sip their coffees, only observed by the many storks nesting here on roofs and chimneys.  In the neighbouring village of Carvahal the espresso is still available for less than one euro and in the small restaurants you don’t pay more than five or six euros for a meal. You communicate with the older villagers with a smile and sign language – if you don’t speak Portuguese. But tourism is on the rise. In Café Eucaylptus Pastelaria, where the French interior icon Jacques Grange also likes to stop by for an espresso, I watch the landlady’s granddaughter. She counts the change in perfect English on the counter. The signs in Comporta are pointing to change. Hurry, before it happens.  BvH

In Comporta and the surrounding area bicycles are very popular

How to get to Comporta

An hour’s drive from Lisbon to Comporta. Tip: Take the ferry from Setubal to Troia. This saves time and is also a wonderful experience. Then take the N253-1 towards Comporta.

Reminds me to the restaurant Sansibar on Sylt island in Germany’s North, but infact it’s the Restaurante Sal in Carvalhal and the best address for fresh fish and delicious tapas …

… yummy yummy, the fried cuttlefish with homemade aioli …

Vegetarian options with goat cheese are also available …

…followed by a freshly caught sole. Enjoy – Aproveite sua refeição!

Nice, the striped awnings, right? In general, I like the interior concept in the Sal restaurant

The small, white houses with the terracotta-colored roofs are very typical of the area and Comporta

A hundred-year-old institution in Comporta is the shop Gomes, called “the little Harrods”. Owner Carlos Gomes offers luxury goods on demand: from pink Himalayan salt to fancy gin varieties …

… but also wines, olives and cheeses from the area. Be sure to drop by!

Fashionistas will find nice stuff in the pretty little boutique Cabeleireira…

…or at Briffa, a treasure trove of clothes and accessories with mainly Portuguese brands. Here I could rummage for hours!

Aw, if I only had a house in Comporta! Then I would shop furniture & Co at Vintage-Department, until I drop

Pure romance: Clothesline over a flowerbed in the middle of Comporta village

Since my last visit to Marrakech I have not seen as many storks as in Comporta. Tchau, tchau and adeus. I’ll be back…

More tips for Comporta

Where to stay: Sobreiras Country Hotel or the Herdade, both in Grandola

Breakfast: Colmo Bar in Comporta

Where to eat: Sem Porta Sublime, Cavalarica or Restaurante Museu do Arroz in Comporta

Where to shop: Ethnic chic at Manumaya, Cushions and more at Cush Cush, Pop-up Shops at Casa da Cultura, Decorations at Marta Manteros Rice – all in Comporta

More MyStylery travel tips you can find here.

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A Mother-daughter-weekend in one of the most beautiful cities ever: Paris, here on Place des Vosges

I often get asked about tips for Paris. As you know, one of my favorite places, when it comes to city breaks. Of course one day in Paris is definitely too short. But to prepare your stay and make the best out of it, here you’ll find a few things to do in the city of love. Paris has so many sights to offer, so for a first – and easy – impression and orientation, I actually suggest a ‘hop on hop off’ bus tour. I also did this with my daughter at our mother-daughter weekend. She first thought it was stuffy, but then okay. You can book tickets online in advance, what I also recommend for museums like the Louvre.

The cathedral Sacre Coeur – one of the sightseeing highlights and tourist attractions in Paris

If you have the opportunity to be in Paris during the week, it is simply more beautiful in many places than on the crowded weekends.

Start the day early (!) in the morning in Montmartre – in good weather you have the best view over Paris and the district with Sacre Coeur only for you.

Silent streets in Montmartre – and Sacre Coeur in the background

There is a small, hidden hotel where you can stay and enjoy very nice breakfast: The Hotel Particulier Montmartre in the middle of a small, bewitched garden. I love it!!!

Visit the Père Lachaise cemetery, where many celebrities are buried in impressive graves: This is pure romance.

The grave of the composer Frédéric Chopin in the cemetery of Père Lachaise. Foto: Internet

I would go from here to Marais. The youngsters love this hood. Especially the very cool concept store “Merci” on the Boulevard de Beaumarchais. Here or at the Café “Benedict” you can also have breakfast. The Benedict is totally hip and comes originally from Tel Aviv. They serve breakfast 24/7.

One of my favorite addresses, when ist comes to shopping in Paris: The cool concept store “Merci“. Foto: Merci

From here take a trip to the most beautiful square of the Marais district, the Place des Vosges and stroll through streets like Rue Vieille du Temple or Rue des Francs Bourgeois with lots of nice boutiques and shops. Nearby is the Picasso Museum.

I love the area and atmosphere around the Place des Vosges

From the Marais you can walk along the Seine to the Louvre. How about a boat trip on one of the Bateaux Mouches?

How about a boattrip on the Seine with a Bateau Mouche?

On the Rue Saint Honoré you will find all the luxury boutiques, such as Dior, Hermès, Saint Laurent … In the mood for a break? Than enter the Hotel Costes and ask for a table in the lovely courtyard. Here I had probably the most expensive spaghetti, but served in such a chic setting and people watching included ;-). Around the corner you find the always crowded Colette store, the mother of all concept stores, which by the way will closes its doors in December  – forever.

Will be closed in December: The famous concept store Colette. On the first floor the women’s department

The end of a legend

Crossing the Seine river: From Rive Droite to Rive Gauche

Pass the Louvre with the pyramid and cross one of the bridges from here to visit the Ile de France, Notre Dame and Saint Germain. A coffee – or a glas of Champagne – at “Café de Flore” or “Les Deux Magot” is a must. And of course the perfect place for a little nightcap to celebrate life. Santé!  BvH

Founded in 1887: The Café de Flore in the Quartier Saint-Germain-des-Prés at 6th Arrondissement in Paris

MyStylery’s tips for Lunch and Dinner in Paris:

1.) There is “L’Avenue”, trendy, chic and pretty expensive, but definitely a place to see and be seen

2.) “Caviar Kaspia” on Place de la Madeleine is the hotspot of the model and fashion scene during Fashion Week

3.) “Le China” at 12éme – when it comes to Asian Food in a nice dinner atmosphere. I love this place!

4.) “Robert et Louise”, which is a quaint French restaurant in the Marais district

5.) The secret lunch place of former top model and style icon Inès de la Fressange is a typical Parisian place: ”Le Chardenoux des Prés” in Saint Germain

6.) And there is an elegant and beautiful decorated Ralph Lauren Restaurant: “Ralph’s” on Boulevard Saint-Germain

The cosy courtyard of Hotel Costes with a great but expensive restaurant: Très chic! Foto: Hotel Costes

Don’t miss:

1.) The best and unbeatable flea market is the Maché aux Puces! But it’s a bit outside the center and open only during the weekend

2.) The DIOR exhibition “Christian Dior – Couturier du Reve” – at the Musée des Art Décoratif (until January 2018)

3.) And last not least the shopping paradise “Le bon Marché”: Shop till you drop!

(Too) many people infront and inside the cathedral of Sacre Coeur during the afternoon. Tip: Try to get here very early in the morning!

Fantastic view from Sacre Coeur to the Parisian skyline

My secret hideaway: The Hotel Particulier in Montmartre …

… in the middle of a small, bewitched garden …

… where I can easily relax from the city’s hurly-burly

Sooo beautiful: Lush Wisteria infront of white house facades

Always a good idea: Breakfast at Ladurée, also well known for the delicous Macarons

The Métro, for me the best (and fastest) way of moving in Paris. Tip: Safe money and buy a carnet, a ticket booklet with ten single tickets

The Eiffel tower, the landmark of Paris. Foto: Internet

Pyramid and Louvre

Me infront of the cathedral of Notre Dame

The Grand Palais, museum and the venue for important individual exhibitions as well as the fashion shows during the Parisian Fashion Week

The classic Parisian kiosk in dark green, decorated with a small dome

These unique roofs and romantic mansards only exist in the city of love

Worth a visit, just because of the opulent architecture: The Galeries Lafayette in Paris

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