On the Streets of Palermo – Food and Culture in Sicily, Italy Stef Hoffer 2023-10-06 | Palermo is one of Italy’s most diverse and fascinating cities, and a remarkable place to travel to. Try Magic, your personal AI assistant, to plan your next trip: magictravel.ai/?r=stefhofferLocated at the heart of the Mediterranean Sea, the capital of Sicily has been at the intersection of civilizations for centuries, and is influenced by cultures, traditions and religions from the Middle East, Africa, and Europe. Famous for its history, architecture, and food, Palermo evokes the imagination of many travelers, and has a distinct, almost mysterious character.In this video, I explore the streets of Palermo, visiting some of the most beautiful and interesting sights, and trying the delicious street food. The footage was shot in February 2023, when I had the chance to travel around Sicily for 2,5 weeks. For other travel documentaries click here: Journey through Sicily: youtu.be/oAmyYKtzc9wNapoli and Beyond: youtu.be/k_oidvMIs08China From Above: youtu.be/vTGR2tUt0m0Yugoslavia From Above: youtu.be/5CV4uRsNaYgJourney through Ethiopia: youtu.be/2xW9mTStyhMJourney through Israel: youtu.be/s3LZ1xXYTlIJourney through Palestine: youtu.be/L-Fzan-VWO0Top 10 Places in China: youtu.be/hbgo66q1s9o Top 10 Places in India: youtu.be/HWGzQlrJOqMTop 10 Places in Central Asia: youtu.be/ZC8OkVxbxh4 Top 10 Places in Iran: youtu.be/0v7cOe1FSUEInstagram: instagram.com/stefhofferFacebook: facebook.com/stefhoffer Copyright of all footage: Hoffer Media Here’s a brief overview of the content in this video:We start this trip to Palermo visiting some of the vibrant markets, where local Palermitani do their grocery shopping and catch up with friends and family. Often connected are the city’s famous street food stalls and restaurants, which are gaining a reputation around the world. Some of the most popular dishes include the ‘arancini’, ‘sfincione’ (fluffy Sicilian pizza), boiled octopus, and all kinds of other seafood. After filling up our bellies, we are ready to explore the rest of the city, starting in the massive Cathedral, from where we can admire the city’s skyline. We continue our trip in the Norman castle, which is home to one of Palermo’s most visited sights, the Cappella Palatina. The Quattro Canti, at the intersection of two busy shopping streets, is a popular place to socialize, and the area around it is filled with spectacular monuments. These include the Chiesa del Gesu, the Fontana Pretoria, and the monastery and church of Santa Caterina d’Allessandria. We traverse Palermo and visit Garraffello square, to admire some of the intriguing street art. Not far from here is the city’s marina, which is also the location of one of Palermo’s most impressive murals, dedicated to two victims of the Mafia. We finish our trip in the ‘No Mafia Memorial’, and Teatro Massimo, one of the largest opera houses in Europe, and a spectacular sight. Timestamps / video chapters:0:00 Introduction1:08 Streets of Palermo1:21 Palermo markets3:23 Palermo street food5:40 Magic (sponsor)6:45 History of Palermo7:34 Palermo Cathedral8:33 Norman Castle8:45 Cappella Palatina9:11 Quattro Canti 10:05 Chiesa di San Cataldo10:17 Chiesa del Gesu10:25 Fontana Pretoria10:39 Santa Caterina d’Allessandria11:31 Garraffello Square12:20 Marina12:46 No Mafia Memorial13:17 Teatro Massimo13:49 End
Journey Through Sicily - Italy Travel Documentary Stef Hoffer 2023-09-08 | Sicily has been at the crossroads of civilizations for centuries and is one of Italy’s most interesting and beautiful places to visit.The first 1,000 people to use the link will get a 1 month free trial of Skillshare: https://skl.sh/stefhoffer09231Located at the center of the Mediterranean Sea, the island’s identity has been formed by cultures and traditions from Africa, the Middle East, and Europe. Distinctly different from mainland Italy, Sicily offers stunning architecture, ancient archaeological sites, lively urban centers, spectacular natural scenery, delicious food, and friendly people.In this video, I’m traversing Sicily, exploring some of the island’s most beautiful places. From the bustling streets of Palermo to the impressive baroque churches of Noto. From historic Greek temples in Agrigento to the religious celebrations around Catania’s festival of Saint Agatha. From peaceful nature reserves of Trapani to seaside towns of Scopello and Taormina. And from the stormy coastal city of Siracusa to the slopes of Mount Etna volcano. This travel documentary was made in February 2023, when I had the chance to travel around Sicily for 2,5 weeks. For other travel documentaries click here: Napoli and Beyond: youtu.be/k_oidvMIs08China From Above: youtu.be/vTGR2tUt0m0Yugoslavia From Above: youtu.be/5CV4uRsNaYgJourney through Ethiopia: youtu.be/2xW9mTStyhMJourney through Israel: youtu.be/s3LZ1xXYTlIJourney through Palestine: youtu.be/L-Fzan-VWO0Top 10 Places in China: youtu.be/hbgo66q1s9o Top 10 Places in India: youtu.be/HWGzQlrJOqMTop 10 Places in Central Asia: youtu.be/ZC8OkVxbxh4 Top 10 Places in Iran: youtu.be/0v7cOe1FSUEInstagram: instagram.com/stefhofferFacebook: facebook.com/stefhoffer Copyright of all footage: Hoffer Media Here’s a brief overview of the content in this video:We start our journey in Catania, a dynamic city with plenty of cultural and historic sights. The highlight here is the Festival of Saint Agatha, one of Europe’s most impressive religious celebrations. Not far from here is Mount Etna, the largest active volcano in Europe, that we visit while covered in snow. Neary Acireale is known for its spectacular carnival, one of the best in Italy.We drive up the coast towards Taormina, a popular holiday destination with stunning mountain vistas, charming beaches, and a captivating ancient Greek theatre. In Siracusa, we encounter a massive storm that completely changed the atmosphere of this beautiful city. It’s in Noto that we admire the exceptional baroque architecture this corner of Sicily is famous for. Through the hilltop village of Enna, located in a broad valley with panoramic vistas, we reach Agrigento, to visit the amazing Valley of the Temples. We briefly walk along the beach at Scala di Turchi, peculiar rock formations made of marl, before stopping in the fishing port of Sciacca, just in time to meet the fishermen returning to the town. Poggioreale and Cretto di Burri are stark reminders of the earthquake that hit the Valle del Belice. Further West, we find the salt pans of Saline di Trapani, a protected nature reserve that was once the most important salt production site in Europe. A steep road up leads us to Erice, a medieval town with 360-degree views of the surrounding landscape. We travel onwards to the Gulf of Castellemare, a region filled with attractive villages and rugged coastal scenery, and visit places like San Vito La Capo and Scopello. We finish this journey in Palermo, the vibrant capital city of Sicily, to explore the lively street markets, eat some delicious food, and admire the striking buildings. Timestamps / video chapters:0:00 Introduction2:27 Catania8:29 Mount Etna10:41 Skillshare (sponsor)12:09 Acireale13:29 Taormina15:50 Siracusa21:08 Noto23:01 Enna25:38 Agrigento27:01 Scala di Turchi28:09 Sciacca30:06 Valle del Belice31:52 Trapani33:15 Erice34:37 Gulf of Castellammare36:27 Palermo43:12 End
Napoli and Beyond - Italy Travel Documentary Stef Hoffer 2023-06-30 | Napoli is one of Europe’s most diverse and fascinating cities, and an intriguing place to travel to. Often misunderstood, this Italian city has some of the country’s most beautiful architecture, ancient historic sites, delicious food, interesting traditions, and a friendly, welcoming people. Located in the Southern Campania region, Napoli (or Naples) has a very different character from most other Italian cities. This video is sponsored by GetYourGuide. Click here for more information and a 10% discount on all tours: bit.ly/44pTlUiSome of the tours in this video:Naples private food tour: bit.ly/3NPEnBwCooking course: bit.ly/3PABlTgDay trip Amalfi coast: bit.ly/3NQ9D3tPompeii entry ticket: bit.ly/3rcqrZqMount Vesuvius entry ticket: bit.ly/3pokGraIn this travel documentary, I’m exploring the streets of Napoli and its surroundings. From the buzzing, narrow alleys of the old city center to the grand churches and cathedrals. From historic palaces and castles to mysterious underground tunnels. And from ancient archaeological sites under the shadow of Mount Vesuvius to one of Italy’s most beautiful stretches of coastline.The video was made in March 2023 when I had the chance to travel to Naples and surroundings for 12 days. For other travel documentaries click here: China From Above: youtu.be/vTGR2tUt0m0Yugoslavia From Above: youtu.be/5CV4uRsNaYgJourney through Ethiopia: youtu.be/2xW9mTStyhMJourney through Israel: youtu.be/s3LZ1xXYTlIJourney through Palestine: youtu.be/L-Fzan-VWO0Top 10 Places in China: youtu.be/hbgo66q1s9o Top 10 Places in India: youtu.be/HWGzQlrJOqMTop 10 Places in Central Asia: youtu.be/ZC8OkVxbxh4 Top 10 Places in Iran: youtu.be/0v7cOe1FSUEInstagram: instagram.com/stefhofferFacebook: facebook.com/stefhoffer Copyright of all footage: Hoffer Media Here’s a brief overview of the content in this video:We start our journey in the old city center of Naples, with its charismatic narrow streets and vibrant markets. This is the beating heart of Napoli, where much of daily life takes place outdoors. After introducing some of the city’s history and culture, I take a food tour around these same streets, going beyond the city’s most famous dish (Margarita pizza). I also try my hand at making pasta myself, with a cooking course that dives deeper into culinary and family life in the region. You find espresso bars and cafes all over Napoli, but perhaps the most famous one doubles as a shrine to Diego Maradona. This famous football player has received a saint-like status, and you will see his face all around the city. The city’s stadium is also named after him.While religion plays an important role in society, Neapolitans have a long-standing tradition of mixing Catholic faith with a combination of rituals, legends, myths, and miracles. I dive a little deeper into this, and also visit some of the city’s most interesting churches, like the Duomo Cathedral and the Chiesa del Gesu Nuovo. The architecture in Napoli resembles the city’s rich and diverse history, and walking through the different neighborhoods almost feels like time traveling. From cloisters and monasteries to forts and palaces, you can find yourself in a different era at every corner of the street. I also explore the city’s charming coastline, with small fishing ports, hidden beaches, tranquil boulevards, and many restaurants. It’s a pleasant contrast to the hustle and bustle of downtown. Don’t miss the metro stations, which are an attraction of their own, displaying art and design that could be part of a museum. Finally, I also visit three of the impressive underground tunnels and/or cities, the Bourbon Tunnels, San Gennaro’s Catacombs, and Napoli Sotterranea.In the second part of the video, I explore some of the most important sights around Napoli, starting with the impressive, yet fearful, Mount Vesuvius. This volcano is one of the most active in the world. Its most violent (and well known) eruption was in 79AD, which devastated Roman cities like Pompeii and Herculaneum. Interestingly, both these places are well preserved (due to a layer of volcanic ash and pumice that ‘protected’ much of the sites). After visiting those, we explore the coastline, with the charming villages and imposing mountains of the Amalfi coast, including the towns of Sorrento, Positano, and Amalfi. This is also one of Italy’s most popular holiday destinations. I finish this journey on the attractive island of Procida, which is less visited by tourists than the 2 bigger islands in the region. It’s full of historic buildings, scenic vistas, black sand beaches, and a laidback atmosphere. Timestamps / video chapters:0:00 Introduction2:01 Napoli31:00 Beyond Napoli (Vesuvius)33:56 Pompeii37:08 Herculaneum38:32 Amalfi coast42:38 Procida45:56 End
Chinas Landscapes & National Parks - Nature Travel Documentary Stef Hoffer 2023-05-31 | China is one of the largest countries in the world, with some of the most diverse landscapes, national parks, and natural scenery. From empty, arid desert landscapes to tranquil forests and beautiful lakes, and from spectacular mountain ranges to powerful rivers. In this travel documentary, I take you on a journey through some of China’s most captivating landscapes and scenic regions. From the bizarre rock formations of Huangshan and Zhangjiajie national parks to the blue turquoise waters of Jiuzhaigou. From the picturesque mountains and hills around Yangshuo to the impressive Hukou waterfall. From the frozen lakes and mountain peaks of Tibet to the beautiful ‘Rainbow Mountains’ of Zhangye Danxia. From the Yuanyang rice terraces to the mysterious Earth and Stone Forests in Yunnan province. And from the mighty Yangtze River traversing China to the empty deserts of Gansu. I traveled through China independently for more than a decade, on several occasions. The footage in this video was shot between 2010 and 2019, and is accompanied by relaxing music and background information.For other travel documentaries click here: China From Above: youtu.be/vTGR2tUt0m0Yugoslavia From Above: youtu.be/5CV4uRsNaYgJourney through Urban China: youtu.be/HTS2plAOXDMJourney through Ethiopia: youtu.be/2xW9mTStyhMJourney through Israel: youtu.be/s3LZ1xXYTlIJourney through Palestine: youtu.be/L-Fzan-VWO0Top 10 Places in China: youtu.be/hbgo66q1s9o Top 10 Places in India: youtu.be/HWGzQlrJOqMTop 10 Places in Central Asia: youtu.be/ZC8OkVxbxh4 Top 10 Places in Iran: youtu.be/0v7cOe1FSUEInstagram: instagram.com/stefhofferFacebook: facebook.com/stefhoffer Copyright of all footage: Hoffer Media Here’s a brief overview of the content in this video:We begin this tour in Zhangjiajie, one of China’s most recognizable and iconic national parks. It’s highly popular for its surreal pillar like rock formations, and was the inspiration for many Chinese painters and artists, and later also the directors of the movie Avatar. Getting around the park is part of the experience, with elevators, glass bridges, and walkways cutting right through the mountains.Jiuzhaigou is known for its blue turquoise lakes and waterfalls, and is immensely popular with tourists well. The contrast with the next destination, Dunhuang, could not be bigger. This arid desert boasts tall sand dunes, and has seen many traders and explorers travel through its inhospitable landscape over the centuries. We travel onwards to Yangshuo, a small town located in an otherworldly panorama of limestone hills and mountains. Cycling or paddling past these imposing peaks is a once in a lifetime experience. The next destination is the Yangtze river, which traverses China for 6,300 kilometers. Along the way, it meets breathtaking mountain scenery, hundreds of tributaries, and some of China’s largest cities. Here, we also briefly look at the environmental impact on the river, caused by dams, water diversion, and pollution.From the raging waters in the narrow Tiger Leaping Gorge, we arrive at the beautiful Yuanyang rice terraces. This rural landscape gives a good insight into village life and agriculture, and provides stunning vistas. From here, we reach the peculiar Shilin Stone Forest. We continue our journey in Western China, to visit the high altitude Karakul lake. After spending the night in a traditional Central Asian yurt, we travel to Tibet, a highly spiritual region that captures the imagination of many travelers. It’s filled with captivating nature, including mountains, rivers, lakes, and glaciers.After briefly showing the Hukou waterfall, we climb the stark mountains of Yulong, after which we arrive in the surreal Earth forest of Yuanmou, and the Zhangye Rainbow Mountains. Finally, we finish our travels in Huangshan, the Yellow Mountain, one of China’s most popular national parks. Timestamps / video chapters:0:00 Introduction1:55 Zhangjiajie National Park4:28 Jiuzhaigou Nature Reserve6:24 Dunhuang Desert8:37 Yangshuo11:19 Yangtze River14:20 Tiger Leaping Gorge15:15 Yuanyang Rice Terraces17:35 Yilin Stone Forest19:31 Karakul Lake21:31 Tibet24:30 Hukou Waterfall25:43 Yulong 27:37 Yuanmou Earth Forest28:39 Zhangye Rainbow Mountains29:46 Huangshan National Park31:12 End
Journey Through Chinas Cities - Urban Travel Documentary Stef Hoffer 2023-03-24 | Get Surfshark VPN at https://surfshark.deals/hoffer - Enter promo code HOFFER for 83% off and get 3 extra months for free!China is one of the world’s most fascinating and complicated countries, and its cities seem to get bigger every year. Considered a rural society just a few decades ago, China today is home to the world’s largest urban population. In this travel documentary, I take you on a journey through some of the country’s most interesting cities. While many city centers are filled with modern skyscrapers, we also search for more traditional neighborhoods, historic sites, tranquil parks, special events, and cultural activities. We look at the rapid changes China is undergoing in its urbanization process, and mention some of the challenges the country is facing. From the modern megacities of Shenzhen and Guangzhou we travel to the ancient centers of Beijing and Xian. We visit the popular Summer holiday beaches of coastal Qingdao, and the exciting Winter festivals of Harbin. From the streets of fusion cities like Hong Kong and Macau we continue our journey to Tibetan Lhasa, located on the Rooftop of the World. We also take a look at the disappearing alleys of old Kashgar, in the controversial Xinjiang region, and the empty streets of Ordos, China’s best known ghost town. And we explore the expanding urban centers along the Yangtze river, including Wuhan and Chongqing, all the way to the fast paced metropolis of Shanghai. I traveled through China independently for more than a decade, on several occasions. The footage in this video was shot between 2010 and 2019, and is accompanied by background information. For more in-depth information on each place, I recommend to read, watch, and listen to as many different sources as you can. For other travel documentaries click here: China From Above: youtu.be/vTGR2tUt0m0Yugoslavia From Above: youtu.be/5CV4uRsNaYgJourney through Ethiopia: youtu.be/2xW9mTStyhMJourney through Israel: youtu.be/s3LZ1xXYTlIJourney through Palestine: youtu.be/L-Fzan-VWO0Top 10 Places in China: youtu.be/hbgo66q1s9o Top 10 Places in India: youtu.be/HWGzQlrJOqMTop 10 Places in Central Asia: youtu.be/ZC8OkVxbxh4 Top 10 Places in Iran: youtu.be/0v7cOe1FSUEInstagram: instagram.com/stefhofferFacebook: facebook.com/stefhoffer Copyright of all footage: Hoffer Media Here’s a brief overview of the content in this video:We begin our journey in Shanghai, one of China’s most remarkable cities. Its skyline has become a symbol for the country’s economic growth. While we look at the modern face of Shanghai, I also visit some more traditional neighborhoods, even though they are disappearing fast.We travel onwards to Harbin, in the North of China, to visit a spectacular Winter festival, with sculptures and palaces made from ice and snow, which draws millions of tourists every year. Beijing, the nation’s capital, is our next destination. This is the political heart of China, but also brims with culture and creativity.In Chongqing, located on the mighty Yangtze river, we witness some of the urbanization process, while in Lhasa we look at the traditions and customs of the Tibetan people. We travel onwards to Xian, where we walk on the ancient city walls, eat some delicious food in the Muslim neighborhood, and visit the magnificent Terracotta Army. After Xian, we travel to Ordos, China’s best known ‘ghost town’. After which we continue our way to Kashgar, in the now controversial Xinjiang region, where the faith of the Uyghur people hangs in the balance. Qingdao is our next destination, one of China’s most beautiful coastal cities, where we also explore some of the suburbs. Hong Kong is perhaps the perfect mix between East and West. A short ferry ride away, Macau retains some of its Portuguese history, but is also known as the ‘Las Vegas of Asia’ with its many casinos. Just across the ‘border’ from both, Shenzhen has grown into one of China’s largest and wealthiest cities, while it was just a small fishing village 40 years ago. The last two cities we visit are Wuhan and Guangzhou, which have their own distinct character. I visited Wuhan before the pandemic broke out, and found a sprawling city. Guangzhou is also a vast metropolis, and is known for its Cantonese culture and cuisine. Timestamps / video chapters:0:00 Introduction2:20 Shanghai6:53 Harbin9:31 Beijing13:48 Message from sponsor15:39 Chongqing18:25 Lhasa23:08 Xian26:50 Ordos29:04 Kashgar34:01 Qingdao38:41 Hong Kong44:05 Macau46:16 Shenzhen50:34 Transport51:59 Wuhan56:09 Guangzhou59:32 End
China From Above - Scenic Travel Documentary Stef Hoffer 2023-01-20 | In this scenic travel documentary I take you on an aerial journey through China, one of the world’s most fascinating, beautiful, complex and diverse countries. From rugged mountain landscapes and beautiful nature reserves to modern skylines of seemingly ever-growing cities. From small, tranquil villages nestled among green rice terraces to walled cities steeped in history, traditions, and culture. From massive industrial complexes and factories to modern office towers and awe-inspiring architecture. I filmed all footage for this 4K video between 2016 and 2019, on four independent journeys through China. It is accompanied by calm, relaxing music, sometimes with a cinematic, upbeat, or mysterious undertone. For other travel documentaries click here:Yugoslavia From Above: youtu.be/5CV4uRsNaYgJourney through Ethiopia: youtu.be/2xW9mTStyhMJourney through Israel: youtu.be/s3LZ1xXYTlIJourney through Palestine: youtu.be/L-Fzan-VWO0Top 10 Places in China: youtu.be/hbgo66q1s9o Top 10 Places in India: youtu.be/HWGzQlrJOqMTop 10 Places in Central Asia: youtu.be/ZC8OkVxbxh4 Top 10 Places in Iran: youtu.be/0v7cOe1FSUEInstagram: instagram.com/stefhofferFacebook: facebook.com/stefhoffer Copyright of all footage: Hoffer Media Here’s a brief overview of some of the places visited in this video:After a short introduction, we begin this journey near the spectacular rice terraces of Yuanyang, before moving on to the captivating Buddhist temples of Dali. Via the peculiar Shilin Stone Forest and the ‘Rainbow Mountains’ of Zhangye, we arrive in Guangzhou (Canton), one of China’s largest cities. After the Yellow Mountains national park, and the intriguing ‘tulou’ buildings, we visit the Great Wall and the Leshan Giant Buddha, the largest such statue in the world.After flying through the ice and snow city of Harbin, where people enjoy a unique Winter event, we take a brief look at the imposing Yellow River, Hukou waterfall, Zhengzhou and Changsha cities, before stopping at the breathtaking Jiuzhaigou national park, filled with crystal clear blue lakes. The next place is the countryside in between rural Yangshuo and urban Guilin, easily one of the most popular tourist destinations in China, where the Li river meanders through bizarre karst scenery. For more diversity, we travel to Dunhuang to visit the arid Gobi Desert. We also have a look at a solar panel field and windmill park, before we fly over some heavy industry, including a steel factory, coal mine, oil refinery, concrete dam, shipyard, an oil rig, and a massive bridge. Hong Kong is our next destinations, before moving on to several places along the Yangtze river (or its distributaries), including Tiger Leaping Gorge, Chongqing, and Wuhan. On Hainan island we see the ‘tropical’ side of China, while in Xiahe and Tibet we visit the country’s highlands. From the frozen cities of Jilin and Xining we arrive in Qingdao, with its German colonial architecture and coastal vibe. In Macau we fly over the famous casinos, but also visit the Portuguese quarters, and after the rice fields of Longji (Dragon’s Backbone), we increase our altitude in the Yulong national park. After Hangzhou and Shenyang, we briefly look at one of China’s many ‘ghost towns’ and construction sites, before flying on to the surreal pillars of Zhangjiajie, and the (perhaps) equally stunning skyline of Shanghai. After showing the modern part of the city and the port (harbor), we also explore some of the disappearing neighborhoods, destroyed factories, and the strange looking ‘bicycle graveyard’. From the freezing ‘Xuexiang’ village and walled city of Pingyao we continue our journey in Xian, Shenzhen, Suzhou, and Changzhou. Finally, we take a look at the mesmerizing Yuanmou ‘Earth Forest’, Kunming city, and Lijiang, one of China’s most famous historic towns. Video chapters / timestamps:0:00 Introduction3:29 Yuangyang rice terraces4:59 Chengkan5:17 Dali6:08 Shilin stone forest6:50 Zhangye national park7:55 Guangzhou10:22 Huangshan national park11:24 Fujian ‘tulou’12:03 The Great Wall12:33 Leshan12:55 Harbin15:00 Yellow River15:28 Hukou waterfall15:50 Zhengzhou16:20 Changsha16:31 Jiuzhaigou national park17:26 Yangshuo20:25 Dunhuang21:42 Qinghuangdao21:58 Guazhou22:47 Benxi, Fushun, Guangzhou, Hainan24:19 Danjiangkou25:12 Aizhai bridge25:39 Hong Kong29:19 Tiger Leaping Gorge29:44 Chongqing31:45 Yangtze River33:03 Wuhan35:41 Hainan island38:02 Xiahe38:51 Tibet40:26 Jilin40:44 Xining41:25 Linxia41:51 Qingdao48:22 Macau49:34 Longji rice terraces49:59 Shexian50:21 Yulong national park51:42 Hangzhou53:06 Shenyang53:32 Shenfu ‘ghost town’54:26 Chengdu54:46 Zhangjiajie national park56:12 Shanghai1:04:26 Xuexiang1:05:49 Pingyao1:06:28 Shenzhen1:06:54 Xian1:07:12 Suzhou1:10:05 Changzhou1:10:44 Yuangmou Earth forest1:11:23 Kunming1:12:43 Lijiang
Former Yugoslavia From Above - Europe Travel Documentary Stef Hoffer 2022-10-14 | In this scenic travel documentary I take you on an aerial journey through former Yugoslavia, one of Europe’s most fascinating, complex, and beautiful regions. Often overlooked as a travel destination, it offers captivating historic landmarks, vibrant future oriented cities, picturesque mountain villages, a stunning coastline, and friendly, welcoming people. Although Yugoslavia does not exist anymore as a country, it has left a huge mark on the region. These days, it is divided into seven different countries (that are part of the wider Balkans area): Bosnia & Herzegovina, Croatia, Serbia, Montenegro, Kosovo, North Macedonia, and Slovenia. While all these countries have their own distinct characteristics, there is also a lot of cultural and religious overlap.In this 4K video, I will be traveling with a drone, showing you some of the most beautiful and interesting parts of former Yugoslavia from the sky. From the changing skylines of Sarajevo and Belgrade, to the appealing coastal towns of Dubrovnik and Budva. From hidden monasteries, impressive churches and mosques, to beautiful mountain scenery. From Soviet style industry and architecture to modern office towers and apartment buildings. As you travel through this area, you also witness some of the visual scars from the Yugoslavia war, which tragically broke the country apart in the 1990s. However, most of the video focuses on the variety that this region has to offer today. The footage in the video was made in 2017. It is accompanied by calm, relaxing music. For other travel documentaries click here: Journey through Ethiopia: youtu.be/2xW9mTStyhMJourney through Israel: youtu.be/s3LZ1xXYTlIJourney through Palestine: youtu.be/L-Fzan-VWO0Top 10 Places in China: youtu.be/hbgo66q1s9o Top 10 Places in India: youtu.be/HWGzQlrJOqMTop 10 Places in Central Asia: youtu.be/ZC8OkVxbxh4 Top 10 Places in Iran: youtu.be/0v7cOe1FSUEInstagram: instagram.com/stefhoffer Facebook: facebook.com/stefhoffer Copyright of all footage: Hoffer Media Here’s a brief overview of the content in this video:We start our journey in Bosnia and Herzegovina, a country with a true ‘East meets West’ feel to it, with a blend of Ottoman and Austro-Hungarian history. We visit the tranquil Jajce watermills, Banja Luka and Mostar, and monuments in Tjentiste and Kozara. In Sarajevo, I show the contrast between the old center and the modern suburbs. I also visit industrial sites in Gacko and Zenica, the rural East, the moving Srebrenica memorial, and national parks.After Bosnia, we travel to Montenegro, a small country on the Mediterranean Sea with a surprisingly diverse landscape. The rugged coastline is dotted with towns like Herceg Novi, Kotor, and Budva, that are popular tourism destinations. Don’t miss Sveti Stefan, a small island that is now a holiday resort. Montenegro’s hinterland is filled with mountain scenery and lakes. Here, we visit the Tara River, Skadar lake, and the arch bridge of Durdevica. We also stop in the country’s capital Podgorica. The next part of the movie is Slovenia, a place that offers breathtaking natural beauty and fairytale castles. We start in the undeniably attractive Lake Bled, before flying to the snowy mountains of Bohinj, Kranjska Gora, and the Vogel ski resort. I continue towards Ljubljana, one of Europe’s most picturesque capital cities. We also visit places like Koper, Kanal, and Predjama.We fly onwards to North Macedonia, with its somewhat surreal capital city Skopje. Other places we discover Ohrid, located on a beautiful lake, Krusevo with its peculiar ‘spomenik’ monument, and Matka Canyon.Serbia is the largest country in former Yugoslavia, and its bustling capital Belgrade also the most populous city, as well as an interesting fusion between historic and modern. The mysterious secluded monastery Manasija is worth the drive into the countryside. We also visit factories in Pancevo and Smederevo. Other highlights include the laid-back city of Novi Sad and the spectacular Tara National Park. This brings us to Kosovo, Europe’s newest country and an intriguing place to visit. From the capital Pristina, with its eye-catching national library, to the charming old town of Prizren. We also fly over Mitrovac, a complicated, yet attractive small town in the North, and the incredible Sar mountains. We finish our aerial journey in Croatia, perhaps the most visited country in the region. It boasts some of the most picturesque coastal towns, like Rovinj, Sibenik, Dubrovnik, and Pula, with its well preserved Roman amphitheater. The country also has some beautiful islands to explore, and its capital city Zagreb offers a mix of culture, great food, and beautiful architecture.Timestamps / video chapters:0:00 Introduction2:05 Bosnia & Herzegovina15:52 Montenegro20:55 Slovenia28:56 North Macedonia33:24 Serbia41:50 Kosovo46:48 Croatia
Is the Dead Sea Disappearing? Stef Hoffer 2022-08-19 | The Dead Sea is one of the world’s most unique natural wonders. Its high salt and mineral levels are said to have healing powers, and people actually stay afloat in the water, providing a once in a lifetime experience for many travelers. But the Dead Sea is facing huge challenges. Its water levels are receding at immense speed, mostly due to human activity, threatening its survival. In this short mini documentary I’m taking a closer look at the Dead Sea, and the current problems it is facing. Is the Dead Sea actually disappearing?I traveled to the Dead Sea on two occasions, most recently at the end of 2021, as part of a longer journey through Israel and Palestine. For other (longer) videos about the region, please click here:Journey Through Israel: youtu.be/s3LZ1xXYTlIJourney Through Palestine: youtu.be/L-Fzan-VWO0Jerusalem Travel Documentary: youtu.be/YF_m6lYV4d0Instagram: instagram.com/stefhoffer Facebook: facebook.com/stefhoffer Copyright of all footage: Hoffer Media Here’s a short overview of the content in this video:This video starts with a brief explanation of the geography and geology of the Dead Sea (which is qualified as a lake). Its coastline is shared by Israel, Jordan, and Palestine, and it is the lowest point on Earth. It also a place of breathtaking natural beauty, with blue waters and rugged mountain landscapes. Many tourists visit the Dead Sea as part of a resort holiday, but it’s possible to explore this area in many different ways. The second part of the video touches on the problems that the Dead Sea is facing, most notably water diversion projects for agriculture, drinking water, and factories. With already less water in the Dead Sea, climate change is accelerating the evaporation process, adding to the unstable future of the Dead Sea. In the last part I show some of the consequences of the decreasing water levels (for both the environment and humans), including the formation of many dangerous sinkholes in the region, causing roads and buildings to collapse (I use various drone shots to show the damage to the 'ghost' town of Ein Gedi).Even though there are numerous proposals to end the rapid decrease of water levels, none of these have been put into action. Most scientists fear that the Dead Sea’s decline will continue for at least the next 100 years. It's a stark reminder of what can happen when we treat Mother Nature the way we do.
Jerusalem Travel Documentary - Ten Beautiful Places to Visit Stef Hoffer 2022-06-30 | Jerusalem is one of the world’s oldest cities and a fascinating travel destination. It’s holy to Jews, Muslims, and Christians, and has been at the crossroads of cultures and religions for millennia. While it continues as a spiritual and historic center, it is also a dynamic city, where traditional lifestyles blend with cosmopolitan ideas. In this video, I will show you 10 beautiful places in Jerusalem that I visited, as part of a longer journey through the Holy Land, an area that is known today as Israel and Palestine. From the historic center of Jerusalem with its narrow alleyways and religious landmarks, to the bustling modern city around Jaffa street. From intriguing neighborhoods like Nahlaot and Mea Shearim, to the mountain village of Ein Karem. And from the moving Yad Vashem memorial to the vibrant Mahane Yehuda market. Jerusalem is a complicated city, in many ways, and is also at the center of the conflict between Israel and Palestine. However, this video should be seen as a traveler’s perspective of the city, focusing on positive stories and things to do. For those interested in the modern political history of the region, I recommend to read, watch, and listen to as many different sources as you can.This is my first long trip after the pandemic started, and I’m grateful for the chance to travel again. It’s also my second visit to the region, and therefore I use both new and older footage for this video. For other travel documentaries click here: Journey through Israel: youtu.be/s3LZ1xXYTlIJourney through Palestine: youtu.be/L-Fzan-VWO0Journey through Ethiopia: youtu.be/2xW9mTStyhMTop 10 Places in Shanghai: youtu.be/E-t59SPeFaw Top 10 Places in China: youtu.be/hbgo66q1s9o Top 10 Places in India: youtu.be/HWGzQlrJOqMTop 10 Places on Java, Indonesia: youtu.be/XCN481gxmoY Top 10 Places in Central Asia: youtu.be/ZC8OkVxbxh4 Top 10 Villages in China: youtu.be/88qRfULn4Uw Top 10 Places in Iran: youtu.be/0v7cOe1FSUEInstagram: instagram.com/stefhoffer Facebook: facebook.com/stefhoffer Copyright of all footage: Hoffer Media Here’s a brief overview of the content in this video:We begin this journey through Jerusalem in the Old City, where many of the most important sights are located. Its winding alleys lead you through quiet residential neighborhoods and bustling markets. The Old City is divided into four quarters, the Christian, Jewish, Muslim, and Armenian, and all have their own character. It’s in and near these neighborhoods that you’ll find some of the holiest sites of the three main monotheistic religions, including the Western Wall, the Temple Mount (known as Al-Haram Ash-Sharif) to Muslims), with its incredible Dome of the Rock and Al-Aqsa Mosque, the Church of the Holy Sepulchre and the Via Dolorosa. If you want to take it all in from a distance, the Temple Mount offers one of the best viewpoints in Jerusalem. Move away from here, and you’ll find that the Old City is actually a small part of today’s Jerusalem. Its modern center has a very different character, with the charming Mamilla shopping street, bustling Jaffa street, and the vibrant Mahane Yehuda market, which is not only a food paradise, but also gives an insight into the daily lives of Jerusalemites. Close to the market is the friendly Nahlaot neighborhood, while Mea Shearim is one of the city’s most conservative areas, mostly inhabited by Haredi Jews, many of whom lead traditional lifestyles. Perhaps the most moving and powerful museum in the world, Yad Vashem is a memorial to the six million Jews that died in the Second World War. Visitors can learn about the Holocaust here, through a number of different museums, exhibitions, gardens, and memorials. We finish this journey in the picturesque mountain village of Ein Karem, which is filled with churches, monasteries, and historic homes. It’s an important place of worship, but also a popular weekend getaway for people living in the city.Timestamps / video chapters:0:00 Introduction1:22 Old City3:57 Western Wall6:14 Temple Mount (Al-Haram Ash-Sharif)7:49 Church of the Holy Sepulchre & Via Dolorosa9:57 Mount of Olives11:59 Mahane Yehuda market14:16 Nahala'ot15:34 Mea She'arim17:29 Yad Vashem19:01 Ein Karem20:42 End
Journey Through Israel - Travel Documentary Stef Hoffer 2022-05-12 | Israel means a lot of different things to many people, and is one of the most diverse and dynamic countries in the world. Even though it’s often associated with political unrest and conflict, it’s also a beautiful place to travel to, with spectacular natural beauty, lively cities, ancient historic sites, incredible cuisine, and friendly, welcoming people. On this journey, I’m traveling through the Holy Land, a region important to the three main monotheistic religions, and what is known today as Israel and Palestine. In this episode, I’m exploring Israel, a country that was established in 1948, but is located in a region that has been at the crossroads of religions and cultures for many centuries. From the beautiful beaches and dynamic streets of modern Tel Aviv, to the religious landmarks and atmospheric alleys of the Old City of Jerusalem. From the salty water of the Dead Sea to the surreal desert landscapes of the Negev. Along the way, I meet some of the people that live here, and taste some of the local food. I’ll do so from a traveler’s perspective, focusing on the positive stories and things to do. But here and there I also mention the conflict between Israel and Palestine, since it has impacted the lives of many people in the region. For those interested in the politics and modern history of the region, however, I recommend to read, watch, and listen to as many different sources as you can. This is my first long trip after the pandemic started, and I’m grateful for the chance to travel again. It’s also my second visit to the region, and therefore I use both new and older footage for this video. For other travel documentaries click here: Journey through Palestine: youtu.be/L-Fzan-VWO0Journey through Ethiopia: youtu.be/2xW9mTStyhMTop 10 Places in Shanghai: youtu.be/E-t59SPeFaw Top 10 Places in China: youtu.be/hbgo66q1s9o Top 10 Places in India: youtu.be/HWGzQlrJOqMTop 10 Places on Java, Indonesia: youtu.be/XCN481gxmoY Top 10 Places in Central Asia: youtu.be/ZC8OkVxbxh4 Top 10 Villages in China: youtu.be/88qRfULn4Uw Top 10 Places in Iran: youtu.be/0v7cOe1FSUEInstagram: instagram.com/stefhoffer Facebook: facebook.com/stefhoffer Copyright of all footage: Hoffer Media Here’s a brief overview of the content in this video:We begin this journey in Tel Aviv, Israel’s ‘beach city’. But it’s much more than that, it’s also an economic powerhouse and vibrant cultural center, known for its liberal and cosmopolitan attitude. The next stop is Caesarea, an interesting place for people who are interested in history. This ancient port city was an important place during Roman times, and was only recently excavated by archaeologists. Not far from here is Haifa, known particularly for its beautiful Bahai’s gardens. I continue my travels in Akko, a stunning fortified city on the Mediterranean coast. Its winding alleys are a joy to get lost in, and it’s also worth discovering the underground tunnels. Driving onwards, I travel to the Golan Heights, an area popular for outdoor activities, with beautiful mountain landscapes and national parks. It’s also a contested place, as the Golan was captured by Israel from Syria, after Six Day War. As you travel in this region, you come across many reminders of the war. Nazareth is one of Christianity’s holiest places, and the place where Jesus is said to have lived for many years. The Basilica of the Annunciation is the absolute highlight for many visitors, and the city is an important place for religious tourism. Also interesting is Nazareth Village, where you can imagine life during the time of Jesus. Few places evoke so much imagination as Jerusalem, one of the world’s oldest cities, and holy to Jews, Muslims, and Christians. Walking (into) the Old City can be a magical experience, and to many visitors feels like entering a different world, and era. While Jerusalem is a spiritual and historic center, it’s also a dynamic city, where traditional lifestyles blend with cosmopolitan ideas. We continue our journey in the Negev, a vast region in the South of Israel, comprising of arid mountains and surreal desert landscapes. Here, I visit a number of beautiful nature reserves, and also briefly visit a kibbutz. At the Southern tip of the Negev is Eilat, a popular holiday destination for Israeli families, but also a good place to go diving or snorkeling, as it’s located on the Red Sea.I end the trip on the Dead Sea, known for its high salt levels, where people actually stay afloat. The high concentration of minerals is also said to have healing powers for people with certain skin problems. It’s not all good news though, as the Dead Sea’s water levels are receding at immense speed, mostly due to human activity, such as extraction for industrial purposes, and climate change.
Journey Through Palestine - Travel Documentary Stef Hoffer 2022-03-17 | Palestine means a lot of different things to many people, and may not be the most obvious travel destination. It is often associated with conflict and political unrest, overlooking the fact that it’s also a beautiful and fascinating region, with a vibrant culture, incredible historic landmarks, spectacular natural scenery, inspiring religious sites, tasty food, and friendly, welcoming people.On this journey, I’m traveling through the Holy Land, a region important to the three main monotheistic religions, and known today as Israel and Palestine. In this first episode, I’m exploring the West Bank, the largest and most accessible part of Palestine. From stunning natural scenery to intriguing historic sites. From the busy streets of Ramallah to the narrow alleyways of Nablus’ old city. From religious landmarks in Hebron and Bethlehem to the ancient ruins of Jericho. Along the way, I meet some of the people that call this land home, and sample the local cuisine. I’ll do so from a traveler’s perspective, focusing on the positive stories and things to do. But here and there I also mention the conflict between Israel and Palestine, since it has impacted the lives of many people in the region. For those interested in the politics and modern history of the region, however, I recommend to read, watch, and listen to as many different sources as you can. This is my first long trip after the pandemic started, and I’m grateful for the chance to travel again. It’s also my second visit to the region. While much of the footage is from the end of 2021 (including the ‘vlog style’ parts), I’ll also use some background material from 5 years earlier. For other travel documentaries click here: Journey through Israel: youtu.be/4aL9l52BGVgJourney through Ethiopia: youtu.be/2xW9mTStyhMTop 10 Places in Shanghai: youtu.be/E-t59SPeFaw Top 10 Places in China: youtu.be/hbgo66q1s9o Top 10 Places in India: youtu.be/HWGzQlrJOqMTop 10 Places on Java, Indonesia: youtu.be/XCN481gxmoY Top 10 Places in Central Asia: youtu.be/ZC8OkVxbxh4 Top 10 Villages in China: youtu.be/88qRfULn4Uw Top 10 Places in Iran: youtu.be/0v7cOe1FSUEInstagram: instagram.com/stefhoffer Facebook: facebook.com/stefhoffer Copyright of all footage: Hoffer Media Here’s a brief overview of the content in this video:We start this journey in Bethlehem, the birthplace of Jesus Christ, with its impressive Church of the Nativity at its core. After visiting the church, I explore the streets around it, meeting people and eating food in the bustling bazaar. There are many other places worth your time in and around Bethlehem, including the Milk Grotto, an olive oil factory (press), Shepherd’s Fields, and the Mar Saba monastery, surrounded by arid mountains. Hebron is the next stop, a city in the South of Palestine, and (among other things) famous for its glassblowing factories, and also the Tomb of the Patriarch, or Ibrahimi Mosque. The streets around this place are divided between the local Palestinian community and Israeli settlers. As a tourist, you can visit both areas. At the end of the day, my guide Salwa takes me to a traditional Palestinian restaurant, where we eat some delicious food. We continue this trip in Jericho, regarded as the oldest city in the world. Located next to the Dead Sea, it’s also one of the lowest cities on our planet, and can get very hot in Summer. Other sights to visit around Jericho include the Dead Sea, Nabi Musa, Qasr-al-Yahud, and St George’s Monastery, built into a cliff in Wadi Qelt. Getting lost in the narrow alleys of Nablus’ old city was among my favorite things to do. There’s a surprise waiting for you around every corner, and perhaps the best one was the Al Aqsa kunafeh store, which is said to make the best version of this Palestinian dessert, which is popular around the Middle East. We finish this journey in Ramallah, a young and dynamic city, attracting people from around the region to find work and get educated. It’s a commercial hub with a strong entrepreneurial spirit, and provides a different perspective on this part of Palestine.
Top 10 Places to Visit in Iran - Travel Documentary Stef Hoffer 2021-12-10 | Iran is one of the world’s most beautiful and interesting countries, and an eye-opening travel destination. From mesmerizing desert landscapes to the shores of the Persian Gulf. From the ruins of Persepolis to the modern streets of Tehran. From charming mountain villages to lively historic bazaars. Today’s Iran is a complicated, intriguing, but also a fascinating place, with some of the most welcoming and curious people you will ever meet. I traveled through Iran in 2013, and in this video I take you back to 10 favorite places that I visited. For other travel documentaries in a similar ‘Top 10’ format, click here: Top 10 Places in Shanghai: youtu.be/E-t59SPeFaw Top 10 Places in China: youtu.be/hbgo66q1s9o Top 10 Places in India: youtu.be/HWGzQlrJOqMTop 10 Places on Java, Indonesia: youtu.be/XCN481gxmoY Top 10 Places in Central Asia: youtu.be/ZC8OkVxbxh4 Top 10 Villages in China: youtu.be/88qRfULn4Uw Top 10 Places in Ethiopia: youtu.be/2xW9mTStyhMInstagram: instagram.com/stefhoffer Facebook: facebook.com/stefhoffer Copyright of all footage: Hoffer Media Here’s a brief overview of the content in this video:We start this journey in Esfahan, one of Iran’s most beautiful and friendliest cities, attracting tourists and travelers from afar. It is filled with captivating monuments, historic buildings, tranquil gardens, museums, and in general provides a great introduction to daily life in Iran. After Esfahan, we travel to Kerman, a city on the fringes of the desert. It is most popular for what lies outside the city, the remains of the ‘Arg’ (an ancient citadel), and the small town of Rayen with its beautiful gardens and shrine. Not far from here are the Kaluts, some of Iran’s most spectacular desert scenery. These places are best reached by private vehicle, as public transport here is limited. Iran has a long coastline and several island, the largest of which is Qeshm, in the Persian Gulf. This island is relatively underdeveloped and retains much of its traditional characteristics. It’s a great way to get an insight into local Bandari culture, and to witness some of the local economy at work, including agriculture, fishing, and the construction of classic ‘lenge’ boats. Shiraz is regarded as the center of Persian culture for the last two millennia, and has some of the country’s most beautiful ancient bazaars and historic mosques. It’s also home for the tombs of Hafez and Sa’di, two poets that hold a special place in Iranian society and literature. The ruins of Persepolis, just outside Shiraz, evoke images of a thriving ancient Persia, and should not be missed. The next destination is Tehran, the bustling capital city, and beating economic heart, of Iran. As the most secular and liberal city in the country, it’s the best place to learn about modern Iran. Qom, on the other hand, is one of the conservative ‘strongholds’ in the country, and provides an interesting contrast with Tehran. We travel further to Kandovan, a beautiful mountain village where some of the houses are carved out of eroded rocks. It’s near Tabriz, the final destination in the video, famous for its magnificent bazaar.
Journey Through Ethiopia - Africa Travel Documentary Stef Hoffer 2021-10-08 | Ethiopia is one of Africa’s most beautiful and fascinating countries, and a surprising travel destination. From spectacular mountain landscapes and national parks to vast lakes and mysterious deserts. From incredible wildlife to intriguing historic landmarks. From vibrant, fast growing cities to small villages and tribal regions, steeped in culture and traditions. In this documentary style video, I will show you 10 beautiful places I visited, on a one-month journey through Ethiopia in 2019. I remember the smiles and welcoming attitude of the people, the incredible food, remarkable monuments, the stunning natural and urban landscapes. In all fairness, this was one of my best travels yet. Sadly, however, at the time of editing this video, Ethiopia is in political and military conflict with the Northern Tigray region, which is causing great suffering to ordinary civilians. Like most people, I hope the relevant authorities can come to an agreement soon, and start rebuilding this beautiful land. As a result of the conflict, some of the places in this video are currently inaccessible due to high security concerns. Always follow travel advice and consult local guides, to avoid putting yourself and others at risk. For other travel documentaries in a similar ‘Top 10’ format, click here: Top 10 Places in Shanghai: youtu.be/E-t59SPeFaw Top 10 Places in China: youtu.be/hbgo66q1s9o Top 10 Places in India: youtu.be/HWGzQlrJOqMTop 10 Places on Java, Indonesia: youtu.be/XCN481gxmoY Top 10 Places in Central Asia: youtu.be/ZC8OkVxbxh4 Top 10 Villages in China: youtu.be/88qRfULn4Uw Instagram: instagram.com/stefhoffer Facebook: facebook.com/stefhoffer Copyright of all footage: Hoffer Media Here’s a brief overview of the content in this video:We start this journey in the small city of Lalibela, a deeply spiritual town popular with Ethiopian Orthodox Christians. The awe-inspiring monolithic churches are the highlight here, but meeting the many pilgrims is equally, if not more, rewarding. After Lalibela, we venture to the mysterious Danakil Depression, one of the hottest and most inhospitable places on Earth. It’s a bizarre desert landscape, with salt lakes, volcanoes, sulfur springs, and acidic pools. It feels like true adventure travel, but can only be done with experienced tour companies and guides. The rock-hewn churches of the Tigray region are something unique, and Abuna Yemata Guh may be the most special of them all. This place of worship can only be reached on a steep and sometimes terrifying hike, but rewards travelers with incredible views, and a serene and peaceful atmosphere. The site is managed by several clergymen and priests.The spectacular Simien mountains offer some of Africa’s best chances for hikes and longer treks, and are also home to the gelada baboons, nicknamed as ‘bleeding heart monkeys’. They live in troops and can live high in the mountains. After spending some time in the nature, we continue our journey in Gondar, a friendly city with stunning historic monuments. Perhaps even more impressive is Aksum, with some of Ethiopia’s most iconic historic and religious sites, such as the towering obelisks (or stelea), and the Church of Saint Mary of Zion (which, according to legend, is the hiding place of the Ark of the Covenant, in a small chapel).Addis Ababa is often overlooked by travelers, who rush themselves to the North and South of the country. But the vibrant capital city is an interesting place to spend a couple of days, and serves as a good introduction to Ethiopian culture and food. There are some great areas to be visited, including the famous Mercato, the largest market in Africa.After Addis, we travel to the South of Ethiopia, which feels very different in many ways. The first stop here is Arba Minch, known for its wonderful Nechisar national park. Here, you can take boat trips on one of Ethiopia’s largest lakes, and spot crocodiles, pelicans, hippos, baboons and other wildlife. The Dorze village is not far from here, and offers a peak into traditional village life. Its friendly inhabitants have created a sustainable form of tourism, and visitors can witness (and take part in) the local economy at work, with cotton weaving, pottery, coffee ceremonies, bread production, and much more.We finish this journey in the Omo Valley, which is home to many different ethnicities and tribes. It’s important to travel with local guides here, as these destinations often risk turning into so called ‘human safaris’. While tourism can have a positive effect on people’s lives, it’s crucial that it happens in a respectful and meaningful way.
Ethiopia From Above - Africa Aerial View (Drone Film) Stef Hoffer 2021-08-27 | Ethiopia is one of Africa’s most beautiful and diverse countries, with spectacular natural landscapes, incredible historic landmarks, and fast growing cities. In this aerial film, I explore Ethiopia from above, showing you some of the country’s most stunning places. As a travel destination, Ethiopia alternates panoramic mountain views with vast lakes, green highlands with captivating deserts, and high plateaus with mysterious savannahs. Historically, it’s the only African country that was never colonized, and has kept much of its cultural identity. While Christianity and Islam are the main religions, the country is also a patchwork of many different ethnicities, customs, and traditions, including tribes that have managed to retain some of their lifestyle. But Ethiopia is also a complicated country, with various ethnic and political interests that not always converge. Last year, in 2020, parts of the Northern Tigray region became the scene of a civil war, one that is still ongoing. The footage in this video was shot in 2019 on a DJI Mavic Pro 2 drone, during a one month journey through the country. Please check the current situation and consult relevant travel advice before visiting. Instagram: instagram.com/stefhoffer Facebook: facebook.com/stefhoffer Copyright of all footage: Hoffer MediaHere is a short overview of the places in this cinematic video:Addis Ababa is Ethiopia’s capital city, and has been growing at a fast pace. It’s the business and economic center of the country. Lalibela is a small city with some remarkable rock-hewn churches, that are Unesco World Heritage. Gondar is perhaps equally impressive with its beautiful Fasil Ghebbi fortress (and various other historic and tourist sights). Aksum is home to the Church of Our Lady Mary of Zion, an iconic place of worship for the Ethiopian Orthodox community. In the far North is the Abuna Yemata Guh monolithic church, which can only be reached by climbing some of the steep peaks of the epic mountains here, an adventure in itself. The surreal Dallol sulfur pools and salt plains are located in the Danakil Depression, one of the hottest places in the world. Simien is the largest national park in Ethiopia, with spectacular mountains and wildlife. In the South, the Omo Valley is the ‘star attraction’, with small villages (such as Dorze and Konso) and tribal communities that have long stayed isolated. Arba Minch is a good base to explore the beautiful Nechisar national park, part of the famous Great Rift Valley.
Top 10 Places to Visit in India - Travel Video (Documentary) Stef Hoffer 2021-07-31 | Welcome to India, one of the world’s most beautiful and diverse travel destinations. From the bustling streets of Mumbai and Kolkata, to historic forts in Rajasthan. From vibrant bazaars in Delhi to quiet villages in Himachal Pradesh and Odisha. Steeped in history and culture, while confidently embracing the 21st century, India is a country that can be explored for years, and will surprise you at every corner. I traveled through India on three different trips, and in this video I will share with you my personal top 10 places to visit in this magnificent country. The footage in this mini documentary was mostly shot in 2014, and can function as a travel guide.For other travel videos in the same Top 10 format, click here: Top 10 Places in Shanghai: youtu.be/E-t59SPeFawTop 10 Places in China: youtu.be/hbgo66q1s9oTop 10 Places on Java, Indonesia: youtu.be/XCN481gxmoYTop 10 Places in Central Asia: youtu.be/ZC8OkVxbxh4Top 10 Villages in China: youtu.be/88qRfULn4UwInstagram: instagram.com/stefhofferFacebook: facebook.com/stefhofferCopyright of all footage: Hoffer MediaHere’s a brief overview of the content in this video:We begin this journey in Amritsar, and more specifically in the mesmerizing Golden Temple. Located in the spiritual heartland of the Sikh community, this is one of India’s most famous icons. The nearby kitchen is also very interesting to visit, and don’t miss the Wagah border ceremony, where soldiers from both India and Pakistan perform an entertaining border closing show. Rajasthan is a beautiful province that can be explored for weeks, with stunning hilltop forts and royal palaces, in places like Jodhpur, Jaisalmer, Udaipur, and Jaipur. The bazaars and street markets, where many people do their (grocery) shopping, are also a joy to explore. After Rajasthan, we travel to Agra, to visit India’s tourism symbol, the awe-inspiring Taj Mahal. Mumbai is one of India’s most dynamic and interesting cities. Often considered as the commercial capital of the country, the city bursts with energy and creativity. While there are many impressive buildings to admire (mosques, temples, colonial architecture), it’s the city’s atmosphere that really draws tourists and travelers to Mumbai. Tamil Nadu is a distinctly different province from many others places in India, and is characterized by charming coastal villages, pilgrimage sites, and beautiful Hindu temples. The South Indian food is also delicious, and shouldn’t be missed. We travel onwards to Kolkata, thought of as a intellectual and cultural powerhouse. It’s a lively city, with stunning architecture, beautiful (flower) markets, and also modern shopping malls. Other places to visit are the British colonial Victoria Memorial, the horse racing tracks, and many parks where people play cricket all day long.Dharamsala (or McLeod Ganj) is the seat of the Tibetan government in exile, and almost feels like a Little Tibet. This is where the Dalai Lama lives, and many monks and pilgrims regularly visit. Hyderabad, in central India, is an IT hub like Bangalore, and provides a great insight in the country’s growing digital economy. Delhi is the political capital, and really a destination in itself. It’s a major business and transport hub and attracts people from all over India to work, study, and live. We finish this journey in Odisha province, an often overlooked region that boasts some of India’s most beautiful temple complexes, a welcoming attitude, and a relaxed beach vibe.
Top 10 Villages to Visit in China - Historic Towns and Countryside (Travel Video) Stef Hoffer 2021-06-19 | Welcome to China’s villages and historic towns. Often touted for its ever changing city skylines, China’s countryside shows a very different side of the country. From beautiful riverside villages to snow covered mountain towns. From mysterious tulou (earthen buildings) to awe-inspiring rice terraces. Traveling rural China can be an eye-opening experience. I spent more than 18 months in China, spread over the course of a decade and a half. In the last years, I started filming the places that I traveled to, using regular cameras and drones. All footage in this travel video is shot by myself between 2010 and 2019. For other travel videos, click here: Journey through China's Cities: youtu.be/HTS2plAOXDMJourney through Israel: youtu.be/s3LZ1xXYTlIJourney through Palestine: youtu.be/L-Fzan-VWO0Journey through Ethiopia: youtu.be/2xW9mTStyhMTop 10 Places in Shanghai: youtu.be/E-t59SPeFaw Top 10 Places in China: youtu.be/hbgo66q1s9o Top 10 Places in India: youtu.be/HWGzQlrJOqMTop 10 Places on Java, Indonesia: youtu.be/XCN481gxmoY Top 10 Places in Central Asia: youtu.be/ZC8OkVxbxh4 Top 10 Places in Iran: youtu.be/0v7cOe1FSUETop 10 Places in Central Asia and the Caucasus: youtu.be/ZC8OkVxbxh4Instagram: instagram.com/stefhofferFacebook: facebook.com/stefhofferCopyright of all footage: Hoffer MediaHere’s a brief overview of the content in this video:We start off this journey in Yuanyang, a spectacular mountain region where you can find some of the world’s most jaw-dropping rice terraces. Staying with local families is a great way to explore the area, filled with breathtaking landscapes and friendly villages. Xuexiang is located in the North of China, and is mostly known for its extreme Winter weather, with freezing temperatures and layers of snow. It’s a popular tourist attraction and beautiful sight. The ‘tulou’ buildings in Fujian province are the next destination. These structures were used by the local Hakka people as defense against rivaling communities and bandits. While many still function as homes, some are now used as restaurants and hotels for tourists. Lijiang is one of China’s most beautiful historic towns, with classic architecture and narrow lanes that can be explored for days. Nearby Dali is worth a visit for its incredible Three Pagodas and Buddhist temple. We travel onwards to Xiahe, a tranquil town just outside Tibet proper. Join monks and pilgrims on traditional koras, and soke up Tibetan culture.Yangshuo, on the banks of the Li River, might be one of China’s most famous villages, surrounded by mesmerizing limestone hills and mountains. It also provides a good insight into farming life in the country (you can rent bicycles and motorcycles for nice day trips). Shaoshan is a somewhat odd place. It’s the birthplace of Mao Zedong, regarded as the founder of the People’s Republic. The village is a popular stop on the ‘Red Tourism’ trail, a government propaganda campaign.Fenghuang is a stunning ancient village in the same Hunan province, with incredible architecture, including stone bridges and towers, stilt houses, and a city wall. The next spot on my list is Zhujiajao a popular ‘water town’, not far from Shanghai. We finish this tour in Pingyao, perhaps the best preserved walled town (or small city) in the country. It used to be an important center of trade and finance, and it’s fascinating to walk the quiet neighborhoods and intriguing alleyways.Timestamps / video chapters:0:00 Introduction1:05 Yuanyang rice terraces2:36 Xuexiang Snow Town4:27 Tulou 'Earth buildings' in Fujian5:19 Lijiang6:12 Dali6:30 Xiahe7:29 Yangshuo8:54 Shaoshan10:11 Fenghuang11:26 Zhujiajiao12:45 Pingyao13:43 End
Top 10 Places to Visit in Central Asia and the Caucasus - Silk Road Travel Video (Documentary) Stef Hoffer 2021-05-15 | Welcome to Central Asia and the Caucasus, two beautiful regions on the crossroads of Asia and Europe. Often overlooked as travel destinations, the countries here provide some of the most rewarding and unique experiences. From stunning mountain landscapes of the Pamir Highway to historic monasteries in Armenia, from spectacular monuments along the ancient Silk Road to the modern skylines of Baku and Astana. I traveled through these regions for four months in 2013, and in this short travel documentary I share with you my personal top 10 places to visit. The countries included in the video are Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Turkmenistan, Tajikistan, Armenia, Azerbaijan, and Georgia. For other travel videos in the same format, click here: Journey through Palestine: youtu.be/L-Fzan-VWO0Journey through Ethiopia: youtu.be/2xW9mTStyhMTop 10 Places in Shanghai: youtu.be/E-t59SPeFaw Top 10 Places in China: youtu.be/hbgo66q1s9o Top 10 Places in India: youtu.be/HWGzQlrJOqMTop 10 Places on Java, Indonesia: youtu.be/XCN481gxmoY Top 10 Villages in China: youtu.be/88qRfULn4Uw Top 10 Places in Iran: youtu.be/0v7cOe1FSUEInstagram: instagram.com/stefhofferFacebook: facebook.com/stefhofferCopyright of all footage: Hoffer MediaHere’s a brief overview of the content in this video:We begin this journey in Samarkand, one of the most iconic cities along the ancient Silk Road. Located in Uzbekistan, it’s full of remarkable monuments but also provides a good introduction into daily life, especially in the lively farmers markets and bazaars. After Samarkand, we go to the Caucasus, to visit the fast developing capital city of Azerbaijan, Baku. Visiting the modern shopping malls and vibrant streets gives an interesting contrast with the narrow alleys of the old town here, and the wide promenade facing the Caspian Sea.The Pamir Highway in Tajikistan is one of the most challenging, but also rewarding, travel destinations in Central Asia. It requires solid preparation, and many tourists decide to hire experienced travelers and guides for their trips. Back in Uzbekistan, the Fergana Valley takes you back in time, with charming villages, and an opportunity to view a traditional silk weaving factory. Astana, now known as Nur-Sultan, is the modern capital city of Kazakhstan, and sometimes nicknamed as ‘Dubai of the Steppe’. It’s an interesting place to visit, and attracts people from across the country to work, study, and live. Back in the Caucasus, Tbilisi is steeped in history, and full of culture and charisma. The stunning Tsminda Sameba Cathedral is an important place of worship in the Georgia’s Orthodox Christian religion.In Kyrgyzstan you will find some of the region’s most traditional ways of life, as nomadic shepherd families still move from villages to classic yurts. Traveling across the green pastures is a great way to experience a lifestyle that seems unusual in many societies these days. The capital city of Turkmenistan, Ashgabat, is a peculiar place on the list. Regarded as a secretive dictatorship, Turkmenistan is also one of the most mysterious and closed countries in the world. Keep in mind that people here face severe limitations in their daily lives.Armenia is a beautiful destination in the Caucasus, and includes the friendly capital Armenia, and several stunning medieval monasteries. We finish this journey in Bukhara, another important stop on the historic Silk Road. There are many mosques and other landmarks to visit, but it’s also just a friendly town where you can eat some delicious food and soak up the relaxed atmosphere.
Indonesia From Above - Aerial View of Java Island (Drone Travel Film) Stef Hoffer 2021-04-17 | In this drone video I explore Java from above, one of Indonesia’s most beautiful and diverse islands. From the modern skyline of Jakarta to the historic temples of Borobudur. From charming fishing villages to the incredible volcanic mountain landscapes of Mount Bromo and Kawah Ijen. I traveled through Asia for a number of years, and visited Java island in 2017. All footage was shot on a first generation DJI Mavic Pro, and accompanied by calm (and perhaps relaxing) music. Thanks for watching and feel free to leave comments below!Click here for a video of my Top 10 Places to visit on Java island: youtu.be/XCN481gxmoYCheck these links for more aerial videos (or use the ‘Drone Videos’ playlist):Qingdao: youtu.be/GmEbUmgeZ1EShanghai (long version): youtu.be/WGUQwNr6jWsHong Kong: youtu.be/2K8MkF_sHIsGuangzhou: youtu.be/fK9IEcakd5sHarbin: youtu.be/_XPERlrUztgDolomites: youtu.be/63X-pPcdKs0Instagram: instagram.com/eyeingasiaFacebook: facebook.com/stefhofferCopyright of all footage: Hoffer MediaHere’s a brief overview of the content in this video:We first travel to Jakarta, the capital of Indonesia and one of the largest cities in Asia. There are shots of the modern skyline and the financial and business district, but also of more low-rise residential neighborhoods. For additional contrast, the video includes scenes taken in what some call the ‘slums’ on the outskirts of the city, a massive garbage belt, and the port of Jakarta where cargo ships unload colorful containers. I also show Merdaka Square and the Istiqlal Mosque, captured in the same shot. The acidic volcanic lake of Kawah Ijen is the next spot, followed by a brief view of the Cilacap oil refinery, providing an insight into some of Indonesia’s industrial areas. We then visit Borobudur, one of the most iconic historic temples in the country, and a beautiful place to visit. Yogyakarta is the gateway to Borobudur, and looks very different from other cities on Java. The architecture of the houses and buildings is more classic. The countryside around ‘Yogya’ is well worth a visit too, with lush green rice fields and paddies, with volcanic mountains in the distance. The nearby Prambanan temples are a feast for the eye (they are of Hindu origin, unlike Borobudur which were built by people following Buddhism).Wonosobo is located in central Java, and here I show you some beautiful tea gardens. The surrounding mountains provide a good climate for growing tea. Next up is Semarang, where I fly over some historic colonial neighborhoods, and also a roundabout intersection where rush hour traffic is on its way home. Pangandaran, the next destination, is a tranquil seaside village with some beautiful beaches. A large fishing vessel (which was sunk by the authorities as a statement against illegal fishing) provides for a peculiar contrast.Banyuwangi is rich in agriculture, with coffee plantations being one of the most recognizable industries. It’s also one of Java’s largest fishing harbors, with beautifully decorated boats moored to the shore (when they are not at sea!). In Surabaya, the country’s second largest city, I show the skyline and the impressive main mosque. We finish this video near the impressive Mount Bromo, one of Indonesia’s most famous volcanoes.*** As mentioned, the footage in this video was made in the years before the global pandemic. I am currently not traveling, like most people in the world. ***
Top 10 Places to Visit on Java - Indonesia Travel Video (Documentary) Stef Hoffer 2021-03-26 | Java is one of Indonesia’s most diverse and beautiful islands. In this travel video, I show you 10 of my favorite places to visit. From surreal mountain landscapes and volcanoes to bustling cities, from tranquil fishing villages to historic temples set among green lush rice fields.I traveled through Asia for a number of years, and visited Java in 2017. This short travel documentary aims to show you my personal top 10 places on this magnificent island. Thanks for watching, and feel free to leave comments below!For other travel videos in the same format, click here: Journey through Israel: youtu.be/s3LZ1xXYTlIJourney through Palestine: youtu.be/L-Fzan-VWO0Journey through Ethiopia: youtu.be/2xW9mTStyhMTop 10 Places in Shanghai: youtu.be/E-t59SPeFaw Top 10 Places in China: youtu.be/hbgo66q1s9o Top 10 Places in India: youtu.be/HWGzQlrJOqMTop 10 Places in Central Asia: youtu.be/ZC8OkVxbxh4 Top 10 Villages in China: youtu.be/88qRfULn4Uw Top 10 Places in Iran: youtu.be/0v7cOe1FSUEInstagram: instagram.com/eyeingasiaFacebook: facebook.com/stefhofferCopyright of all footage: Hoffer MediaHere’s a brief overview of the content in this video (which can be used as a travel guide):We begin this journey in Jakarta, the nation’s capital, and one of Asia’s largest cities. The city can feel overwhelming at first sight, but there are some great areas to visit, including museums, historic neighborhoods, and modern shopping malls. After Jakarta, we travel to Yogyakarta, the cultural heartland of Java. It’s a much more relaxed place to walk around, and provides a more traditional perspective of Indonesia, with music performances (gamelan songs) and shadow puppet theatre. I also visit local farmers in the countryside around the city. Most are growing rice in green paddy fields, and are happy to show you around. Around Yogyakarta you will find two of Indonesia’s most stunning temples. Borobudur is a Buddhist temple, and easily one of the most impressive historic structures in Asia. Prambanan is of Hindu origin, and its architecture is very different from Borobudur.Mount Bromo is arguably one of Indonesia’s most famous volcanoes, and it’s actually possible to get up on the ridge, to get a peek into its crater. The next destination is Pangandaran, a peaceful seaside town with some beautiful beaches and powerful waves, and a popular holiday destination.Semarang is a busy city with some beautiful historic architecture, including the church which was built in Dutch colonial times. The Christian minority still uses this church. After Semarang, we travel to Kawah Ijen, a surreal volcanic crater where miners are collecting blocks of sulfur. In some moments, this place felt apocalyptic. In the fishing port of Banyuwangi (also the gateway to Bali) you will find some spectacular fishing boats, with bright colors and classic design. The town’s atmosphere is friendly, and it’s nice to walk around visiting some of the markets. The region around Banyuwangi is well suited for agriculture, and is used for cacao, rubber, and coffee production.In the lush green mountains around Wonosobo, you will find some beautiful tea plantations, that are open to visit. We finish the journey in Surabaya, an important business and trading hub in Indonesia. It might not boast a lot of ‘tourist attractions’, but it’s a nice place to visit. The main mosque is a highlight, where the local Muslim population comes to pray. It provides an interesting view into the main religion in Indonesia, Islam. On Fridays, this area turns into an ‘open air restaurant’, with street food sellers offering their finest dishes. #Indonesia #travel #tourism*** As mentioned, the footage in this video was made in the years before the global pandemic. I am currently not traveling, like most people in the world. ***
Top 10 Places to Visit in China - Travel Documentary Stef Hoffer 2021-02-26 | China is one of the most fascinating travel destinations in the world, and in this video I will share with you my personal top 10 best places to visit. From the ruins of the Great Wall to vibrant megacities. From surreal mountain landscapes to charming riverside villages. Today’s China is a beautiful, complicated, and captivating place. I spent more than 18 months in China, spread over the course of a decade and a half. In the last years, I started filming the places that I traveled to, using regular cameras and drones. All footage in this travel documentary is shot by myself between 2010 and 2019.Here's a brief overview of the places in this video.We start this journey in the stunning riverside village of Fenghuang in central China. The wooden stilt houses are a spectacular sight, and the backstreets are still filled with old world charm. We then continue to Harbin, best known for its Winter tourism. Millions of people usually flock here to visit the amazing Ice and Snow Festival, to admire beautiful sculptures and palaces. Yangshuo is another spot not to miss, mostly for its mesmerizing mountain landscape of limestone peaks. It’s a great place to witness life in the countryside, and has a relaxed vibe. After Yangshuo we travel to Beijing, the nation’s capital city. The impressive Forbidden City and the Temple of Heaven Park are two main highlights. And the nearby Great Wall of China is truly a sight to behold.Zhangjiajie is the next destination on my list, and one of China’s most beautiful national parks. It formed the inspiration for the popular movie Avatar. You can get an aerial perspective from the many walkways, and don't miss out on the Glass Bridge here, if you dare at least. I continue my journey to Lhasa, the spiritual heartland of Tibet, and a place that left a deep impression on me. Take into a account that foreign travelers can only visit Tibet as part of a group tour. Shanghai is a unique city with a jaw-dropping modern skyline, but also has some impressive historic architecture. It’s a busy place to visit, but also has many laidback neighborhoods and quiet streets. Yuanyang, on the other hand, is quintessential rural China, with an epic landscape of rice terraces. It’s a good place to meet some of the minorities living in the South of the country, and eat some local food.I continue my travels in Qingdao, one of China’s most scenic coastal cities, located on the Yellow Sea. Many Chinese tourists come here to enjoy the beach and eat fresh seafood, but I was particularly impressed by the historic German buildings. I finish this journey in Hong Kong, easily one of my favorite cities in the world, and a perfect fusion between East and West. For other travel documentaries in the same format, click here:Journey through Israel: youtu.be/s3LZ1xXYTlIJourney through Palestine: youtu.be/L-Fzan-VWO0Journey through Ethiopia: youtu.be/2xW9mTStyhMTop 10 Places in Shanghai: youtu.be/E-t59SPeFaw Top 10 Places in India: youtu.be/HWGzQlrJOqMTop 10 Places on Java, Indonesia: youtu.be/XCN481gxmoY Top 10 Places in Central Asia: youtu.be/ZC8OkVxbxh4 Top 10 Villages in China: youtu.be/88qRfULn4Uw Top 10 Places in Iran: youtu.be/0v7cOe1FSUE#China #travel #places #tourism #visit #documentaryThanks for watching this video and feel free to leave comments/suggestions below!Copyright of all footage: Hoffer MediaTimecodes / video chapters:0:00 Where to travel in China?1:04 Fenghuang, riverside village2:52 Harbin, China’s ‘Ice City’5:29 Yangshuo, villages and landscapes7:37 Beijing, culture and history10:55 Zhangjiajie, national park12:42 Lhasa, Tibet16:15 Shanghai, modern metropolis18:44 Yuanyang rice terraces20:19 Qingdao, China’s ‘beach city’22:39 Hong Kong, fusion between East and West26:48 Final words*** As mentioned, the footage in this video was made in the years before the global pandemic. I am currently not traveling, like most people in the world. ***
Qingdao from Above - Aerial View of Chinas Beach City | Drone Travel Video Stef Hoffer 2021-01-28 | Qingdao is perhaps the most beautiful coastal city in China, and boasts some spectacular beaches, historic European architecture, pleasant weather, and delicious seafood. While human settlement dates back around 6,000 years ago, the face of the city changed drastically when German naval officers occupied Qingdao in the late 19th century. Railroads and ports were developed, but the Germans also built schools and churches. They even built a brewery, which over time became one of China’s largest beer producers, Tsingtao. Some of these buildings have been preserved, and provide a striking contrast with the more modern face of Qingdao.In this aerial video, I will show you some of these buildings, but also fly over the modern business district and skyline, and some more traditional pagoda style structures. The scenic beaches and rolling green hills and mountains are some of the highlights of Qingdao, and are visibly stunning. The city, however, is also a major industrial and commercial hub, with a massive port, connected via the 25.9 kilometer long Jiaozhou Bay Bridge, one of the largest in the world. I studied in Qingdao for one semester in 2010, and had the chance to travel and visit the city again in 2019. This time I took my drone to capture some of the main sights and landscapes in this fascinating city. For more recent aerial films, you can check:Hong Kong: youtu.be/2K8MkF_sHIsShanghai: youtu.be/MGe690C7KuAGuangzhou: youtu.be/fK9IEcakd5sHarbin (ice festival): youtu.be/_XPERlrUztg*** As mentioned, the footage in this video was made in 2019 before the global pandemic started. I am currently not traveling, like most people in the world. ***Thanks for watching and feel free to leave comments below!Copyright of all footage: Hoffer Media
Hong Kong from Above - Aerial View of Asias Amazing Skyscraper City | Drone Travel Tour Stef Hoffer 2021-01-15 | Aerial view of Hong Kong, one of Asia’s most beautiful and mesmerizing cities. From the glitzy modern skyline to the mysterious looking backstreets. From the quiet beaches of Lamma island to the frantic commercial Port of Hong Kong. Hong Kong is one of the most fascinating places to visit in Asia and the world. The city’s unique blend of Western and Chinese influences makes it a popular destination for many visitors. Whether it’s for its spectacular food, the dynamic cultural landscape across the city, or the incredible views, Hong Kong should be high on any traveler’s list. In this drone video I show you some of the highlights (both tourist spots and off the beaten path areas) of this beautiful city, starting off with the panoramic views from the famous Victoria Peak. I explore parts of Kowloon, Victoria Harbour, the central business district at Hong Kong Island with its expensive real estate and epic skyscrapers, and some of the most dense apartment towers in the city, nicknamed the ‘Monster Building’. Other than the urban jungle that Hong Kong often seems to be, I also show you a different side of the city in this film, including the famous Tian Tan Buddha statue and the container terminal. *** The footage in this video was made in the years before the global pandemic. I am currently not traveling, like most people in the world. ***Thanks for watching and feel free to leave comments below!Copyright of all footage: Hoffer Media
Shanghai From Above - Aerial View of Chinas Largest Metropolis Stef Hoffer 2020-12-30 | Aerial film showing the different faces of Shanghai, one of China’s most unique cities to visit. From the spectacular skyline of Pudong to old disappearing neighborhoods, from neglected industrial areas to the colorful container terminal of the Port of Shanghai. This drone video starts off with a tour of the well preserved classic Bund area, the eye-catching waterfront promenade with beautiful historic architecture. Accompanied by calm (perhaps even relaxing) music, I take you across the Huangpu river to Pudong, the business and financial district of Shanghai. This is where the city’s iconic skyline is built, with various glitzy modern skyscrapers to admire. In the evenings, they are lit up with spectacular neon lights. This show is perhaps one of the most popular tourist attractions in China.After a bird’s-eye view of the circle shaped Nanpu intersection, we fly all the way to the Port of Shanghai. This commercial harbor boasts the largest container terminal in the world and is a feast for the eyes. Watch massive cargo vessels from around the world arrive and depart, delivering colorful containers. Staying out of the city, we briefly visit the Shanghai Yangtze River Bridge, which (combined with the adjacent tunnel) spans an impressive 25.5 kilometers. Back in the metropolis, I show you an old neglected industrial area, with crumbling factories and a ‘bicycle graveyard’. This is where the city’s government has dumped thousands of rental bikes that were confiscated for various reasons. A peculiar sight indeed. From the suburban Putuo district (with the futuristic 1000 trees project), we fly over the Jing’an Temple and the former Expo site, before reaching Huangpu district. This central part of Shanghai still has some old traditional neighborhoods, although they are disappearing fast. It probably has the most contrasting urban landscape in the city. The movie finishes with a glimpse of the jaw-dropping Yan’an intersection, a surreal convergence of roads and elevated highways.This is an extended version of ‘Shanghai Skyline from Above’ with lots of extra footage, and more relaxing and calm music. For the shorter clip you can click here: youtu.be/MGe690C7KuAFor a more indepth travel video about Shanghai: youtu.be/E-t59SPeFaw*** The footage in this video was made in the years before the global pandemic. I am currently not traveling, like most people in the world. ***Feel free to leave comments below, and thanks for watching! Copyright of all footage: Hoffer Media
Top 10 Places to Visit in Shanghai - China Travel Documentary Stef Hoffer 2020-12-17 | Shanghai is one of the most fascinating cities in China, and in this video I share my personal top 10 places to visit in this amazing city. Few cities in the world evoke so much imagination as the largest city in China. Rich and glamorous on one corner, rough around the edges on another, Shanghai is truly one of the most fascinating places in the country. Located in the East of China, Shanghai should be high on any traveler’s list. The video starts off on the Bund, a spectacular waterfront promenade located right in the center of the city. It provides a stunning contrast between historic colonial architecture and the awe-inspiring modern skyline of Pudong on the other side of the Huangpu river. Here, you can get some of the best views across the city. After Pudong, I take you to Nanjing street for some shopping, followed by a moment of calm in the rebuilt Jing’An Temple. After walking through the People’s (central) park where I encounter a ‘marriage market’, we search for pockets of old Shanghai. These authentic neighborhoods are fast disappearing, as development of apartment towers and shopping malls takes over. With enough time, it’s possible to plan a few day trips out of Shanghai. Some of my favorite ones are Suzhou, Zhujiajiao, and the impressive Yangshan Port (Shanghai's main container terminal, or harbor). Back in the city, we travel to the outskirts to visit a ‘bicycle graveyard’ and visit a few trade shows. Probably not your regular 'tourist attraction', but interesting places for those interested in doing business in China. The video finishes at the former Expo site, taking you back to one of the largest events ever held in China.*** The footage in this video was made in the years before the global pandemic. I am currently not traveling, like most people in the world. ***Thanks for watching and feel free to leave comments below!Copyright of all footage: Hoffer Media
Shanghai Skyline from Above - Flying over Chinas most Cosmopolitan City | Aerial Drone Tour Stef Hoffer 2020-11-20 | Aerial view of Shanghai, one of China’s most captivating cities. From the historic Bund waterfront to the futuristic skyline filled with awe-inspiring buildings. Shanghai has grown into the largest and wealthiest city in China, and some of its transformations are absolutely mind-boggling. At the same time, the city keeps some of its original character in some of the traditional neighborhoods, creating stunning visual contrasts. The metropolis is one of China's most popular travel destinations to visit. In this short film, I explore some of the main highlights of this modern Chinese megacity with a drone. You will see footage of the spectacular Pudong financial district (including its iconic three skyscrapers, the Jin Mao Tower, Shanghai World Financial Center, and the Shanghai Tower), the beautifully preserved Bund, some of the most photogenic intersections in the world, and more. The video starts in the early morning and finishes up in the night, when the city’s epic skyline is illuminated with amazing neon lights. *** The footage in this video was made in the years before the global pandemic. I am currently not traveling, like most people in the world. ***Thanks for watching and feel free to leave comments below!Copyright of all footage: Hoffer Media
Guangzhou City from Above - Aerial View of Chinas Southern Metropolis Stef Hoffer 2020-10-23 | Guangzhou is a fascinating city located in the Pearl River Delta in Southern China. Over the years, it has grown into a major trading and business hub. While glitzy skyscrapers dominate the skyline, Guangzhou also has a variety of neighborhoods with a more relaxed and traditional atmosphere. The city is at the heart of the most populous built up metropolitan area in mainland China. Guangzhou’s history is characterized by trade and revolution, and unlike many other areas in China the region was connected with Western countries for many centuries. The Portuguese and British, for instance, used the city as a trading hub as early as the 16th century. In this cinematic aerial video I explore this vast metropolis with my drone, visiting some of the most iconic places. From the eye-catching Canton Tower (with a height of 604 meters) to the modern business district, from residential neighborhoods to a traditional temple complex. While Guangzhou’s skyline is impressive during the day, it becomes spectacular during the night when many buildings are lit up with neon lights. Most footage was shot in early 2019, but there are also a few clips from 2016, taken during my first aerial photography project in China. Feel free to leave comments below. Thanks for watching! Copyright of all footage: Hoffer MediaInstagram: instagram.com/stefhofferFacebook: facebook.com/stefhoffer*** As mentioned, the footage in this video was made in the years before the global pandemic. I am currently not traveling, like most people in the world. ***
The Dolomites from Above - Aerial View of Europes most Beautiful Mountains Stef Hoffer 2020-09-02 | The Dolomites in Italy combine a total of nine mountain groups and offer some of the most dramatic and diverse alpine scenery in the world. The variety in landscape is sometimes just mind boggling. You turn one corner, and find yourself in a completely different environment. I traveled to the Dolomites at the end of June 2020, making it the first trip after lockdown measures around Europe were eased. A longer travel vlog style documentary about this journey you can find here: Italy After Lockdown - A Travel Documentary (Venice, Dolomites, Milan): youtu.be/wPvsjqCjaOMThe Dolomites are among my favorite mountain ranges in the world. This short aerial film (shot with a DJI Mavic 2 drone) shows some of the best places to visit in this unique part of our planet. Highlights in this video: Tre Cime di Lavaredo, Lago (lake) di Braies, Lago di Sorapiss, Santa Magdalena, Seceda ridge, Cima Cadin (nicknamed 'Towers of Mordor'), Cinque Torri, Sassolungo, and a few more areas.Thanks for watching!Copyright of all footage: Hoffer Media
Italy After Lockdown - A Travel Documentary (Venice, Dolomites, Milan) Stef Hoffer 2020-08-12 | In this vlog style travel documentary, I visit Italy after the country reopened to tourism. After exploring the streets of Venice, I drive towards the spectacular Dolomites mountains, where I spend most of my time. Finally, I finish the journey with a quick visit to Milan. In this short film, I show you some of the highlights of this trip, and hope to give you an impression what it’s like to travel again after (Covid-19) lockdown.Italy is one of the most popular places to visit in Europe, and was also among the hardest hit countries on the continent by the coronavirus outbreak (especially the North). The country's economy relies heavily on tourism, and many Italians' livelihoods depend on it. Like elsewhere, however, Italy is also trying to find a balance between public health and the economy. If you decide to travel, please respect local Covid-19 regulation and guidelines.Copyright of all footage: Hoffer Media
Chinas Ice City from Above - Aerial Drone View of Harbin Winter Festival Stef Hoffer 2020-07-09 | Aerial view of China's most famous Winter destination.Harbin is a city in Northeastern China with a population of over 5 million people. While it’s a popular travel destination for tourists all year round, things really get busy in Winter. This is the time of Harbin Ice and Snow festival, which usually attracts millions of visitors. Thousands of workers and artists prepare for many weeks in bitterly cold conditions, before the festival usually opens in early January. Most of the festivities focus around a few designated theme parks, but there are activities all over the city.I traveled to the Harbin ice festival in January 2019, and spent several days exploring the city and the theme parks. I also brought my drone and managed to film some parts of the festival.Copyright of all footage: Hoffer Media
Harbin City Ice Festival - Winter Travel in China Stef Hoffer 2020-06-12 | Harbin is a city in Northeastern China with a population of over 5 million people. While it’s a popular travel destination for tourists all year round, things really get busy in Winter. This is the time of Harbin Ice and Snow festival, which usually attracts millions of visitors. Thousands of workers and artists prepare for many weeks in bitterly cold conditions, before the festival usually opens in early January. Most of the festivities focus around a few designated theme parks, but there are activities all over the city.I traveled to the Harbin ice festival in January 2019, and spent several days exploring the city and the theme parks. While the day time was already spectacular, the evenings became almost magical when most of the sculptures were lit up with beautiful neon lights. The freezing temperatures seemed challenging, but actually only added to the atmosphere. Copyright of all footage: Hoffer Media
Tulips From Above - Aerial view of beautiful flower fields in the Netherlands Stef Hoffer 2020-05-08 | In this aerial film I explore some of the beautiful tulip fields scattered around the Netherlands, including a very special one dedicated to health care workers fighting the coronavirus. The tulips usually blossom in April and early May, and the immense fields are a spectacular sight. From up close, but also from the air. Originally growing wild the nature, tulips started to be cultivated in Istanbul around one thousand years ago. Many centuries later, they came under the attention of Western diplomats and gradually grew into a highly valued commodity, especially during the ‘Tulip mania’ period in the Netherlands. These days, the Netherlands are the main producer and exporter of tulip bulbs. Usually, tourists from around the world come to admire the vivid colors of the tulip fields, both in the famous ‘Keukenhof’ and in other parts of the country. This year, it’s not possible for most travelers to visit Holland, but hopefully this clip can provide a glimpse into the beauty of our amazing tulip fields. Most of the shots were made this year, but there are also a few from previous seasons.#staystrong #staysafeCopyright of all footage: Hoffer Media
Streets of Wuhan China - Daily life before the coronavirus changed the city (and the world) Stef Hoffer 2020-05-02 | These are images of daily life in Wuhan before the coronavirus engulfed the city. The video includes shots of the Yangtze river waterfront, historic buildings, a ferry service, people living in traditional neighborhoods, modern shopping streets, construction sites, a temple complex, and a food market. They were filmed on my first visit to Wuhan in 2015. Wuhan in China has become the spotlight of the world this year, and not for good reasons. Before becoming (in)famous as the (most likely) source of the coronavirus, the city was fast becoming a crucial hub in China’s high-speed railway network. In recent years it also grew into the main industrial and commercial powerhouse in central China. It is strategically located along the mighty Yangtze river. Wuhan is actually a conglomerate of three independent cities, Wuchang, Hangkou, and Hanyang. It was home to many historical events, and even briefly served as capital of China under the Kuomintang (in 1927). While it doesn’t boast any obvious tourist attractions, the city does have a unique character. Unfortunately, it gained international ‘fame’ as the start of the coronavirus Covid-19 outbreak.Copyright of all footage: Hoffer Media
Wuhan Before the Lockdown - Aerial view of Chinas most (in)famous city Stef Hoffer 2020-04-19 | Wuhan in China has become the spotlight of the world this year, and not for good reasons. Before becoming (in)famous as the (most likely) source of the coronavirus, the city was fast becoming a crucial hub in central China’s economy. In recent years it grew into the main industrial and commercial powerhouse of the region, and also became an important link in the domestic high-speed railway network. It is strategically located along the mighty Yangtze river, and is linked to several other major urban areas in the country.Wuhan is a conglomerate of three independent cities, Wuchang, Hangkou, and Hanyang. It was home to many historical events, and even briefly served as capital of China under the Kuomintang (in 1927). While it doesn’t boast any obvious tourist attractions, the city does have a unique character. Unfortunately, it gained international ‘fame’ as the start of the coronavirus Covid-19 outbreak. I visited Wuhan twice in the past and found it quite an enjoyable city. It’s obviously massive and suffers from similar problems of other fast growing cities in China, but it’s also quite wide spread. The phenomenal bridges spanning the Yangtze river (from the historic double deck to the eye catching cable-stayed bridges) were probably some of the most striking visual sights I came across.These are some images I shot on my last visit in September 2018, with a Phantom 4 Pro drone.Copyright of all footage: Hoffer Media
Schiphol Airport - Empty Departure Halls and Grounded KLM Aircraft on Runway (Coronavirus Covid-19) Stef Hoffer 2020-04-11 | Large parts of the world are currently affected by the novel coronavirus Covid-19 outbreak that originated in China. Other than a global health crisis, the disease has also caused havoc in the daily lives of people, and has disrupted many societies and economies.The aviation, travel, and tourism industries are among the worst affected sectors around the world with only a fraction of previous 'normal' activity. These scenes provide a glimpse of the third busiest airport in Europe, Amsterdam Schiphol Airport in the Netherlands, on 'lockdown'. Almost empty departure halls, cancelled flights, and airplanes of Dutch flag carrier KLM (Royal Dutch Airlines) parked on the runway. These images were shot on 1 April 2020 as part of my work. Please be very careful in your daily routine and follow advice from your respective governments and medical institutions.Copyright of all footage: Hoffer Media
Empty streets of Amsterdam - Coronavirus Covid-19 in the Netherlands Stef Hoffer 2020-03-28 | Large parts of the world are currently affected by the novel coronavirus Covid-19 outbreak that originated in China. Citizens of many nations are under (partial) lockdown and self imposed or mandatory quarantine. Governments across the globe take extreme measures to minimize the impact of this global pandemic. Although the Dutch government has not imposed an obligatory lockdown (as of 28 March 2020), they urge citizens to stay home as much as possible. These images show a glimpse into how daily life has come to a standstill in central Amsterdam, the Netherlands. They were shot in the morning of March 23 as part of my work. Please be very careful in your daily routine and follow advice from your respective governments and medical institutions. #stayathome #staysafe #socialdistanceCopyright of all footage: Hoffer Media
Jeddah Fish Market in Saudi Arabia جدة سمك سوق المملكة العربية السعودية Stef Hoffer 2020-02-28 | The Central Fish Market in Jeddah is a fascinating and busy place to visit. It has at least 50 species of sea creatures for sale, mostly from the Red Sea. A lot of fish is supplied from all over the region, and is not just what’s being caught by local fishermen. It’s arguably best to visit the market in the morning when fresh fish is being brought in.It’s mostly men that work and shop at the market, and many of the workers come from other countries like Bangladesh, India, and Egypt. These are scenes that I filmed on my two week journey across Saudi Arabia. I also uploaded a 6 part vlog style series that you can watch here: Episode 1 - One Day in Riyadh: youtube.com/watch?v=ollH45NDXu0Episode 2 - Journey to the Edge of the World: youtube.com/watch?v=CZAn_fcc96wEpisode 3 - Medina as Non Muslim: youtube.com/watch?v=9np1b4C3XnEEpisode 4 – Umluj Islands in the Red Sea: youtube.com/watch?v=pENDOEzqRFMEpisode 5 - Camel Racing in Saudi Arabia: youtube.com/watch?v=9troDjhph2MEpisode 6 - Jeddah City Tour: youtube.com/watch?v=kqvDL68JrmIFor a view of Saudi Arabia from above: youtube.com/watch?v=G5KCKKia61oInstagram: instagram.com/stefhofferFacebook: facebook.com/stefhofferCopyright of all footage: Hoffer Media
Jeddah Old City Al Balad - History in Saudi Arabia جدة المملكة العربية السعودية البلد Stef Hoffer 2020-02-21 | Al Balad is known as the Old City of Jeddah. It has a unique atmosphere with pedestrians only streets, and historic architecture. Its main drawcard is the splendid architecture of old multi-story merchant houses, built from local material including coral. The first structures were built in the 7th century and served as the center of Jeddah for many centuries. In modern times, the area became less popular, and many buildings were neglected. However, Al Balad was granted Unesco World Heritage status in 2014, and has seen a revival in activity since.Today, many buildings are being renovated and restored, attracting people from all generations and walks of life. These are scenes that I filmed on my two week journey across Saudi Arabia. I also uploaded a 6 part vlog style series that you can watch here: Episode 1 - One Day in Riyadh: youtube.com/watch?v=ollH45NDXu0Episode 2 - Journey to the Edge of the World: youtube.com/watch?v=CZAn_fcc96wEpisode 3 - Medina as Non Muslim: youtube.com/watch?v=9np1b4C3XnEEpisode 4 – Umluj Islands in the Red Sea: youtube.com/watch?v=pENDOEzqRFMEpisode 5 - Camel Racing in Saudi Arabia: youtube.com/watch?v=9troDjhph2MEpisode 6 - Jeddah City Tour: youtube.com/watch?v=kqvDL68JrmIFor a view of Saudi Arabia from above, click here: youtube.com/watch?v=G5KCKKia61oInstagram: instagram.com/stefhofferFacebook: facebook.com/stefhofferCopyright of all footage: Hoffer Media
Saudi Arabia from Above - An Aerial Drone Film المملكة العربية السعودية جوي طائرة بدون طيار فيلم Stef Hoffer 2020-02-14 | Did you ever see Saudi Arabia from above? In this short film, I travel through the country and explore some beautiful regions with a drone.Saudi Arabia has long been off limits to foreign tourists and travelers. Since a few months, however, it’s possible to visit the country on a tourist visa. I made use of this opportunity and traveled solo to Saudi Arabia for 2 weeks. I also brought a small drone and captured shots from several regions, including: Riyadh, the Edge of the World, parts of the desert, Al Ula (camel races), Jeddah, the road to Mecca, Umluj and the Red Sea, and the ruins of Khaybar city. Saudi Arabia is mostly known in the ‘Western world’ for its petroleum export, the birthplace of Islam, and unfortunately also poor human rights record. But as I discover there is much more to this massive country than first meets the eye. In these series I hope to give a glimpse into what was once an almost ‘forbidden place’ for independent travelers, and is now open for visitors from around the world. Instagram: instagram.com/stefhofferFacebook: facebook.com/stefhofferI also edited a 6 episode vlog style series previously about my travels through Saudi Arabia. Episode 1 - One Day in Riyadh: youtube.com/watch?v=ollH45NDXu0Episode 2 - Journey to the Edge of the World: youtube.com/watch?v=CZAn_fcc96wEpisode 3 - Medina as Non Muslim: youtube.com/watch?v=9np1b4C3XnEEpisode 4 – Umluj Islands in the Red Sea: youtube.com/watch?v=pENDOEzqRFMEpisode 5 - Camel Racing in Saudi Arabia: youtube.com/watch?v=9troDjhph2MEpisode 6 - Jeddah City Tour: youtube.com/watch?v=kqvDL68JrmICopyright of all footage: Hoffer Media
Jeddah City Tour - The Liberal Saudi Arabia? Middle East Travel جدة مدينة المملكة العربية السعودية Stef Hoffer 2020-02-07 | Welcome to Jeddah, the second largest city in Saudi Arabia. A more liberal and cosmopolitan city than other parts of the country?I traveled here on the last leg of my journey and visited the stunning Unesco World Heritage Al Balad area, the bustling Central Fish Market, a modern shopping mall, and the beautiful Cornice stretching for kilometers along the Red Sea Coast. A personal tour through a fascinating city.This is the last episode of a 6 part vlog style series about my journey through Saudi Arabia. For previous episodes, please click here:Episode 1 - One Day in Riyadh: youtube.com/watch?v=ollH45NDXu0Episode 2 - Journey to the Edge of the World: youtube.com/watch?v=CZAn_fcc96wEpisode 3 - Medina as Non Muslim: youtube.com/watch?v=9np1b4C3XnEEpisode 4 – Umluj Islands in the Red Sea: youtube.com/watch?v=pENDOEzqRFMEpisode 5 - Camel Racing in Saudi Arabia: youtube.com/watch?v=9troDjhph2MFor a view of Saudi Arabia from above, click here: youtube.com/watch?v=G5KCKKia61o Saudi Arabia has long been off limits to foreign tourists and travelers. Since a few months, however, it’s possible to visit the country on a tourist visa. I made use of this opportunity and traveled solo to Saudi Arabia for 2 weeks, including Riyadh, the Edge of the World, Medina, Al Ula, Umluj, Jeddah and the Red Sea coast. Saudi Arabia is mostly known in the ‘Western world’ for its petroleum export, the birthplace of Islam, and unfortunately also poor human rights record. But as I discover there is much more to this massive country than first meets the eye. In these series I hope to give a glimpse into what was once an almost ‘forbidden place’ for independent travelers, and is now open for visitors from around the world. Instagram: instagram.com/stefhofferFacebook: facebook.com/stefhofferNote: I travel independently and take no money from sponsors. This journey through Saudi Arabia was paid for and organized entirely by myself.Copyright of all footage: Hoffer Media
Camel Racing in Saudi Arabia - Middle East Travel سباق الهجن المملكة العربية السعودية رياضة Stef Hoffer 2020-01-31 | Camel racing holds a special place in the hearts and minds of many Saudi people. The origin of the sport dates back as far as the 7th century. These days, the camel races seem ever more popular, as a symbol of wealth and a celebration of traditional culture. While traveling through Saudi Arabia, I was lucky enough to come across a local camel race near the town of Al Ula, where I was provided with a unique insight into the sport by the friendly camel owners and handlers. I was invited to watch the races inside a jeep, and also filmed some aerial drone shots.This is the fifth episode of a 6 part vlog style series about my journey through Saudi Arabia. For other episodes, please click here:Episode 1 - One Day in Riyadh: youtube.com/watch?v=ollH45NDXu0Episode 2 - Journey to the Edge of the World: youtube.com/watch?v=CZAn_fcc96wEpisode 3 - Medina as Non Muslim: youtube.com/watch?v=9np1b4C3XnEEpisode 4 - Umluj Islands in the Red Sea: youtube.com/watch?v=pENDOEzqRFMEpisode 6 - Jeddah City Tour: youtu.be/kqvDL68JrmISaudi Arabia has long been off limits to foreign tourists and travelers. Since a few months, however, it’s possible to visit the country on a tourist visa. I made use of this opportunity and traveled solo to Saudi Arabia for 2 weeks, including Riyadh, the Edge of the World, Medina, Al Ula, Umluj, Jeddah and the Red Sea coast. Saudi Arabia is mostly known in the ‘Western world’ for its petroleum export, the birthplace of Islam, and unfortunately also poor human rights record. But as I discover there is much more to this massive country than first meets the eye. In these series I hope to give a glimpse into what was once an almost ‘forbidden place’ for independent travelers, and is now open for visitors from around the world. Instagram: instagram.com/stefhofferFacebook: facebook.com/stefhofferNote: I travel independently and take no money from sponsors. This journey through Saudi Arabia was paid for and organized entirely by myself.Copyright of all footage: Hoffer Media
Middle East Travel - Tropical Paradise in Saudi Arabia? Umluj islands أملج المملكة العربية السعودية Stef Hoffer 2020-01-24 | Umluj is an island group on the tropical Red Sea coast in Saudi Arabia. It is known for its unspoiled islands and beautiful beaches. There are a total of 104 islands here, varying in size. Some people have nicknamed Umluj as the Maldives of Saudi Arabia. In this video, I travel to the islands with a local fisherman, and explore the islands from various angles. This is the fourth episode of a 6 part vlog style series about my journey through Saudi Arabia. For other episodes, please click here:Episode 1 - One Day in Riyadh: youtube.com/watch?v=ollH45NDXu0Episode 2 - Journey to the Edge of the World: youtube.com/watch?v=CZAn_fcc96wEpisode 3 - Medina as Non Muslim: youtube.com/watch?v=9np1b4C3XnEEpisode 5 - Camel Racing in Saudi Arabia: youtube.com/watch?v=9troDjhph2MEpisode 6 - Jeddah City Tour: youtube.com/watch?v=kqvDL68JrmIFor a view of Saudi Arabia from above: youtube.com/watch?v=G5KCKKia61o Saudi Arabia has long been off limits to foreign tourists and travelers. Since a few months, however, it’s possible to visit the country on a tourist visa. I made use of this opportunity and traveled solo to Saudi Arabia for 2 weeks, including Riyadh, the Edge of the World, Medina, Al Ula, Umluj, Jeddah and the Red Sea coast. Saudi Arabia is mostly known in the ‘Western world’ for its petroleum export, the birthplace of Islam, and unfortunately also poor human rights record. But as I discover there is much more to this massive country than first meets the eye. In these series I hope to give a glimpse into what was once an almost ‘forbidden place’ for independent travelers, and is now open for visitors from around the world. Instagram: instagram.com/stefhofferFacebook: facebook.com/stefhofferNote: I travel independently and take no money from sponsors. This journey through Saudi Arabia was paid for and organized entirely by myself.Copyright of all footage: Hoffer Media
Medina as Non Muslim - Solo Travel in Saudi Arabia المدينة المنورة المملكة العربية السعودية أجنبي Stef Hoffer 2020-01-17 | Medina is the second holiest city in Islam after Mecca, and one of the most visited places in Saudi Arabia. As a non Muslim, it was unsure whether I could travel to the city center, reading conflicting reports beforehand. I decided to check for myself, and found that I was allowed to visit everywhere, except inside the main mosque, the Al Masjid an Nawabi. Medina is known as the City of the Prophet, and considered the second holiest site in Islam after Mecca. This is where Islam’s main Prophet, Muhammad, lived and was eventually laid to rest. All able Muslims are supposed to make the journey to Medina and Mecca once in their life. This is the third episode of a 6 part vlog style series about my journey through Saudi Arabia. For other episodes, please click here:Episode 1 - One Day in Riyadh: youtube.com/watch?v=ollH45NDXu0Episode 2 - Journey to the Edge of the World: youtube.com/watch?v=CZAn_fcc96wEpisode 4 - Umluj Islands in the Red Sea: youtube.com/watch?v=pENDOEzqRFMEpisode 5 - Camel Racing in Saudi Arabia: youtube.com/watch?v=9troDjhph2MEpisode 6 - Jeddah City Tour: youtube.com/watch?v=kqvDL68JrmIFor a view of Saudi Arabia from above: youtube.com/watch?v=G5KCKKia61o Saudi Arabia has long been off limits to foreign tourists and travelers. Since a few months, however, it’s possible to visit the country on a tourist visa. I made use of this opportunity and traveled solo to Saudi Arabia for 2 weeks, including Riyadh, the Edge of the World, Medina, Al Ula, Umluj, Jeddah and the Red Sea coast. Saudi Arabia is mostly known in the ‘Western world’ for its petroleum export, the birthplace of the religion of Islam, and unfortunately also poor human rights record. But as I discover there is much more to this massive country than first meets the eye. In these series I hope to give a glimpse into what was once an almost ‘forbidden place’ for independent travelers, and is now open for visitors from around the world.Instagram: instagram.com/stefhofferFacebook: facebook.com/stefhofferNote: I travel independently and take no money from sponsors. This journey through Saudi Arabia was paid for and organized entirely by myself.Copyright of all footage: Hoffer Media
Saudi Arabia Desert - Edge of the World Day Trip from Riyadh 🇸🇦 المملكة العربية السعودي سياحة Stef Hoffer 2020-01-10 | In this second episode of my journey through Saudi Arabia I travel to the Edge of the World, located in the rocky deserts, an adventurous day trip from Riyadh. This is arguably one of the most spectacular natural landscapes in Saudi Arabia, and part of the much larger Tuwaiq Escarpment. It earned its nickname because of the clear uninterrupted views of the horizon. I traveled here with a tourist guide (Mr. Ismael) who explained me more about this fascinating place. There are no clear pathways and signs, so if you travel to this region please be very careful. After hiking around the Edge of the World, we also visited a cave hidden in the ground, and eventually a camel market on the way back to Riyadh. This is the second episode of a 6 part vlog style series about my journey through Saudi Arabia. For other episodes, please click here: Episode 1 - One Day in Riyadh: youtube.com/watch?v=ollH45NDXu0Episode 3 - Medina as Non Muslim: youtube.com/watch?v=9np1b4C3XnE Episode 4 - Umluj Islands in the Red Sea: youtube.com/watch?v=pENDOEzqRFMEpisode 5 - Camel Racing in Saudi Arabia: youtube.com/watch?v=9troDjhph2MEpisode 6 - Jeddah City Tour: youtube.com/watch?v=kqvDL68JrmISaudi Arabia has long been off limits to foreign tourists and travelers. Since a few months, however, it’s possible to visit the country on a tourist visa. I made use of this opportunity and traveled to Saudi Arabia for 2 weeks, including Riyadh, the Edge of the World, Jeddah, Medina, Al Ula, Umluj, and the Red Sea coast. Saudi Arabia is mostly known in the ‘Western world’ for its petroleum export, the birthplace of Islam, and unfortunately also poor human rights record. But as I discover there is much more to this massive country than first meets the eye. In these series I hope to give a glimpse into what was once an almost ‘forbidden place’ in the Middle East for independent travelers, and is now open for visitors from around the world.Instagram: instagram.com/eyeingasiaNote: I travel independently and take no money from sponsors. This journey through Saudi Arabia was paid for and organized entirely by myself.Copyright of all footage: Hoffer Media
Saudi Arabia Travel - One Day in Riyadh 🇸🇦 المملكة العربية السعودية مدينة الرياض السفر سياحة أجنبي Stef Hoffer 2020-01-02 | Saudi Arabia has long been off limits to foreign tourists and travelers. Since a few months, however, it’s possible to visit the country on a tourist visa. I made use of this opportunity and traveled to Saudi Arabia for 2 weeks, including Riyadh, the Edge of the World, Jeddah, Medina, Al Ula, Umluj, and the Red Sea coast. In this video I travel to Riyadh, the capital city in the center of the country. After visiting a mosque for Friday prayer and eating lunch with the locals, I tour to modern shopping malls, museums, traditional bazaars, a construction site with migrant workers, the famous Sky Bridge Kingdom Tower, and finally the Riyadh Season Festival, designed to promote tourism and culture. While I spent almost 3 days in Riyadh, I comprised the video to make it into one single day.This is the first episode of a 6 part vlog style series about my journey through Saudi Arabia. For other episodes, please click here: Episode 2 - Journey to the Edge of the World: youtube.com/watch?v=CZAn_fcc96wEpisode 3 - Medina as Non Muslim: youtube.com/watch?v=9np1b4C3XnEEpisode 4 - Umluj Islands in the Red Sea: youtube.com/watch?v=pENDOEzqRFMEpisode 5 - Camel Racing in Saudi Arabia: youtube.com/watch?v=9troDjhph2MEpisode 6 - Jeddah City Tour: youtube.com/watch?v=kqvDL68JrmISaudi Arabia is mostly known in the ‘Western world’ for its petroleum export, the birthplace of Islam, and unfortunately also poor human rights record. But as I discover there is much more to this massive country than first meets the eye. In these series I hope to give a glimpse into what was once an almost ‘forbidden place’ for independent travelers, and is now open for visitors from around the world.Instagram: instagram.com/stefhofferFacebook: facebook.com/stefhofferNote: I travel independently and take no money from sponsors. This journey through Saudi Arabia was paid for and organized entirely by myself.Copyright of all footage: Hoffer Media
Impressions of Cuba - Travel to the Caribbean Islands Stef Hoffer 2017-08-22 | Impressions of Cuba, from the narrow cobblestone streets of Trinidad, the tobacco industry in rural Vinales, the lively alleys of old Havana, sugarcane harvest in the central area of the island, nightlife in the bigger and smaller cities, generally a glimpse into the daily lives of the average Cuban as it is playing out on the streets. Since tensions between Cuba and the United States eased recently, the country has seen an increase in popularity. Numbers of visitors are expected to rise, while large scale investment and the advent of internet are set to make big changes in Cuban society. Contrasts between old and new are visible everywhere.Copyright of all footage: Hoffer Media
Israel & Palestine Stef Hoffer 2017-04-02 | Israel and the Palestine (including the West Bank) are located at the intersection of Asia, Europe, and Africa, in both geographical and cultural terms. The country, officially the State of Israel, has for centuries been a meeting place of cultures, empires, and religions. Today, the region is split into three distinct sections, although all three are mostly administered by Israel. This video shows some footage that was shot in Israel and the West Bank in October and November of 2016. Due to security concerns, it was not possible to visit the Gaza strip.The clip is not an attempt to convey any political or religious message, just a portrayal of some of the topics I came across. You will find material from: Jerusalem, Tel Aviv, Haifa, the Golan Heights (all in Israel proper), and Ramallah, Hebron, Nablus, Jericho, Bethlehem, the Dead Sea (West Bank).Thanks for watching. Copyright of all footage: Hoffer Media
China From Above Stef Hoffer 2016-10-30 | China is a vast country with a seemingly endless variety of landscapes. From the modern skylines of Shanghai and Hong Kong to the ancient city walls of Xi'an, the former capital of the 'Middle Kingdom'. Imposing rice terraces contrast with stark desert scenery, massive coal factories rub shoulders with newly built cities. I have been privileged to visit China a number of times in the last decade or so, usually with a photo- and or video camera in hand, trying to capture glimpses of this ever evolving nation. Earlier this year, I took the opportunity to travel across the country for another 3 months, focusing primarily on aerial photography and filming. This little adventure took me from the Northern 'rust belt provinces' to the beautiful mountain landscapes of national parks like Zhangjiajie (often named as an inspiration for the popular Avatar movie) and Jiuzhaigou. I also visited some cities to gain an aerial perspective of China's urban development, and came across several major infrastructure projects. The rural backwaters in Guangxi province were a personal favorite to explore, with the surreal Dragon's Backbone rice terraces and karst scenery around Guilin. I edited some of this material into one single clip, trying to show some of the diversity I came across. The drone I traveled around with was the DJI Phantom 4.You will find footage from the following places in this clip (in no particular order): Zhangjiajie national park, the Yangtze River (Three Gorges), Dunhuang (sand dunes and solar panels), Guazhou (wind turbines), Hebei province (Great Wall of China), Dazhai (Dragon's Backbone rice terraces), Fujian province (Hakka 'tulou' round houses), Pingyao, Changsha (Mao Zedong memorial), Liaoning province (several industrial sites and 'ghost cities'), Guangzhou (Evergrande football stadium), Hong Kong, Shanghai, Jishou (Aizhai bridge), Hainan island, Chongqing, Guilin, Jiuzhaigou national park, Zhengzhou, Linxia (golden domed mosque), Zhangye national park, Macau, Hukou waterfalls, and Shenzhen.Comments and suggestions are always appreciated, thanks for watching!Copyright of all footage: Hoffer Media
Rural China from Above - Aerial View of iconic villages and landscapes (Longsheng, Tulou, Yangshuo) Stef Hoffer 2016-09-25 | Beautiful aerial view of some of China's most unique and picturesque villages. Rice is the quintessential staple dish in most Asian countries and China is no exception. Rice fields are found across the country, from the plain waterways of Zhejiang province to the mountainous regions in Guangxi, boasting some of the most stunning terraced paddy fields in the world.Guangxi is where Longji (Dragon's Backbone) rice terraces are located. The area has been a crucial part of the agricultural sector in the region, and is now also becoming a popular tourist attraction. With an altitude ranging from 300 to 1100 meters, the rice terraces dominate the surrounding hills. Several small towns (such as Dazhai) are linked via small pathways, although development is underway for several narrow roads.A little further in the video you will find shots of the so called 'Fujian tulou'. These are traditional Chinese rural dwellings, built by the Hakka people between the 12th and 20th centuries. The structure itself is a large enclosed and fortified earthen building, mostly round or rectangular in shape. Tulou vary in size, the largest have over 100 separate rooms. Many of the buildings were also constructed as an effective stronghold for defense against armed bandits that roamed the region in previous centuries. These clips were shot on the DJI Phantom 4 earlier this year, mostly in the Guilin, Yangshuo, and Dazhai region in Guangxi, as well as around Yongding county in Fujian province.Music: 'Days are long' from Youtube royalty free audio library.Copyright of all footage: Hoffer Media
Chinas Hidden National Park - Aerial View of surreal Rainbow Mountain Landscape in Zhangye Stef Hoffer 2016-09-18 | The Zhangye Danxia National Park is located in China's Northwestern Gansu province and is becoming an increasingly popular tourist attraction. It is famous for its surreal looking rock formations and beautiful mountain landscape. The 'Rainbow Mountains' are the result of deposits of sandstone and other minerals that occurred over the span of 24 million years according to some sources.Music credits: 'Delta' by Moonove via Creative Commons license.Copyright of all footage: Hoffer Media
Great Wall of China from Above - Aerial View of Crumbling and Remote Location (History and Travel) Stef Hoffer 2016-09-14 | The Great Wall of China was built over 2000 years ago in the Qin dynasty, after China was unified under emperor Qin Shi Huang. Several existing walls built by independent kingdoms were linked. While the Great Wall never really served as the line of defence it was meant to become, it did prove a very efficient way to transport goods, equipment and people. Today, remains of the Wall can be found across China, decayed, renovated, or in some cases even completely rebuilt.This aerial video was shot in the Gubekou and Jinshanling sections of the Wall, about a 2 hour drive from Beijing.Copyright of all footage: Hoffer Media
