Schloss Benrath (Benrath Palace) was built as a pleasure and hunting palace for the Elector Carl Theodor. Today, the ensemble in its artistic unity of buildings, interior and gardens, 60 hectares in all, is considered one of Europe’s rare complete works of art of the late baroque period. The main palace building (corps de logis), with its furniture, porcelain, paintings, etc., gives an impression of court life in the second half of the 18th century. The eastern wing houses the “Museum für Europäische Gartenkunst” (Museum of European Garden Art) and the western wing the “Museum für Naturkunde” (Museum of Natural Sciences).

Two cities, two branches: The Deutsche Oper am Rhein and the Ballett am Rhein Düsseldorf Duisburg have jointly performed at Düsseldorf’s Opernhaus (1,292 seats) and Theater Duisburg (1,079 seats) since 1956. With one of the largest opera ensembles in the world and one of the major ballet companies in the German-speaking region, it is one of the prime addresses for musical theatre and dance in Europe. The programme includes: Grand Opera from baroque rarities all the way to contemporary musical theatre and a ballet that sets new standards with uncompromising aesthetics.

With one kilometer of soft, warm sand, clear, tranquil water, and idyllic coconut palms lining the whole area, Les Salines is one of the most popular beaches in Martinique. Families tend to crowd it a bit on weekends, but during the week it tends to be less hectic.