WRS Voice by Media Frontier

Â© Juliette Schack

ISSUE 05

INSIGHT

PRIZES

CULTURE

Amazing mountain resorts & events - plus ski for FREE!

WONDERFUL WINTER GUIDE

Enjoy Brand Basel - with WRS in Swiss-Germany!

SWISS RADIO IN ENGLISH

STEAL THIS MAGAZINE, IT'S FREE!

16-17

WINTER

TRAVEL

Best Brunches and Hot List Hotels. Go Bar & Spa!

EAT SLEEP SKI

CONNECT

Connect

We’re breaking out... W

RS is now broadcasting in Zurich – and we’re very excited about it! That’s in addition to Basel, Geneva, Lausanne, Lucerne, Montreux, Vevey, Winterthur, Zug - plus the Valais! And the feedback is already superpositive. German-speaking Switzerland is a huge new audience for us and we’re creating a buzz in the ex-pat and international communities. It’s great to hear that local Swiss are tuning in as well – which is excellent news for Swiss radio in English brought to you by WRS.

Of course while we’re very excited to be expanding our coverage across Switzerland, WRS is not forgetting its traditional areas of Geneva and Lausanne. In fact, we’re boosting our signal now to include parts of the canton of Valais – ready for the ski season! So WRS is going from strength to strength and it’s thanks to your support! We like to think of ourselves as your voice (and ears) and make every effort to reflect the interests of the international community.

fans of worldradio.ch. Check inside and you’ll be amazed at what’s on offer. Then turn to WRS Digital on p.98 for news of Barbara winning a BMW i8 supercar for a whole year! In fact - if you don’t listen to WRS or pick up a copy of Voice Magazine, you’re missing out.

For people outside our DAB+ broadcast area, you can listen to us on-line and on mobile, with our state-of-the-art mobile app. Half of the WRS community tells us they stream or listen on-line – catching up with WRS shows, great If you haven’t heard of WRS (where have you BBC programming, events, classifieds and been?) we’ve been broadcasting in the Geneva interviews plus all the latest news, tailored region for 20 years – reaching countless especially for your international life. thousands of English-speakers. And we don’t Join Mark every weekday on WRS for Butcher’s just mean Brits and Americans and Aussies … Breakfast from 6.30am - and enjoy local news We know that there are people from all over the and chat, plus his special take on stories from world who listen to WRS for the latest Swiss around the world! See the WRS schedule on and local news, What’s On listings, interviews p.94. and ideas on how to get the best out of your time in this fantastically diverse and beautiful country. As this is our 20th anniversary year we’ve got some brilliant upcoming competition prizes for WRS listeners, Voice Magazine readers and

From all of us here – thanks for listening!

CONNECT BY MARK BUTCHER Mark is an award-winning broadcaster, presenting THE English radio morning show in Switzerland. Starting in Bern in 1992 with the English service of Swiss Radio International, Mark was one of the original team that founded World Radio Geneva in 1996 – and was WRG Programme Controller when it won the prestigious Radio Station of the Year in 2005. Firmly established as “the voice of the region,” Mark was part of a group of international investors which bought the station from the Swiss Broadcasting Corporation in 2013. On air every morning, Mark wakes up at 4am (including weekends - as his body clock is now fixed into a routine!) People often ask how he manages to be so chirpy in the early hours. Mark replies that several litres of black coffee consumed before 6am seems to do the trick... Check out worldradio.ch and then go to our Facebook page. OICE MAGAZINE ISSUE 05 - WINTER 2016/17

CONTENTS

01 05 08 14

CONNECT

MID MORNING MIX NEED TO KNOW

WRS Founder and Presenter WRS Presenter Katt Cullen gets inked! Well, not exactly – Mark Butcher on WRS - but she does love the buzz DAB+ in Swiss Germany! of a Swiss tattoo Swiss Radio in English convention. spreads its wings....

TRAVEL: BRAND BASEL

The WRS agenda for culture, exhibitions, shows and Is this Switzerland’s coolest events across the country that you won’t want to miss city? Art and architecture take urban Basel to the next this winter. level.

26 30 34 40

INSIGHT

INSIDE TRACK

WINTER GUIDE

COMPETITION

Cuddly Swiss icon or mountain rescue hero? We sniff out the true story of Barry, leader of the beautiful Grand St Bernards of Martigny.

WRS Fashion Editor Hansine Johnston unclips her skis and wanders the streets of glamorous Megève. Plus World Cup skier Anthony Benna on My Megeve (p.39)

The famous WRS and Voice Magazine Winter Guide is back! Great places, great ideas, great competitions PLUS FREE ski passes!

WIN prizes worth thousands in the WRS wonderful winter giveaway! Hotel stays, Spa breaks, handmade skis PLUS more prizes on p.42, p.53 & p.55!

67 73 78 88

EDUCATION

THE MCKAY INTERVIEW

Kids In Mind with WRS Presenter Rachel Webber plus Raising the Bar with top WRS Presenter Michael McKay talks to BBC level Executive Education options across the country. journalist and commentator - Tim Sebastian.

FOOD

HEALTH MATTERS

Late and lazy or looking for a kick-start? Here’s a selection of delicious Sunday brunches to keep your weekend on track.

WRS Presenter Dr Michelle Wright calls for emergency help in all the Swiss languages!

Cover design

Published by

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Editor

Publication Manager

Design & Layout by

Advertising & Promotion

Juliette Schack

Anglo Media Group SA Images Building, 9, rue de Veyrot, 1217 Meyrin Switzerland T +41 (0)22 989 53 10

Peter Sibley & Mark Butcher

June White

Isabelle Cornet

Media Frontier mediafrontier.ch

WRS +41 (0) 22 989 53 10 advertising@worldradio.ch Printer MUSUMECI (Vallée D'aosta - Italia)

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Distribution

WRS Voice Magazine

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International organisations, NGOs, multinational companies, hotels, shopping centres, International schools, Anglophone clubs, pubs and events

OICE MAGAZINE ISSUE 05 - WINTER 2016/17

MID MORNING MIX

Get INKED!

WRS Mid Morning Mix PRESENTER KATT CULLEN loves to interview artists on her show. But there’s one particular art form that holds a special fascination; the kind that’s marked permanently on the body. Here she takes a look at the creative - and growing - Swiss ink community…

s I walked through the doors at the Montreux Tattoo Convention, there was framed art on the walls, a sculpture exhibition and someone painting. Before I’d even seen any tattoos, it was already a visual treat. I anticipated exciting art work; colourful imagery or mono colour designs. What I did not expect, was the sound.

The sound of some 150 tattoo guns around me - vibrating and punching - was incredible. All of them dipping permanent ink into the skin of paying customers; turning skin into a canvas - to remember a moment or simply to keep a certain design or image close to them at all times - forever.

In fact, the whole idea of someone making a decision to mark their skin permanently is intriguing. Often this decision has taken months and months. Often it’s on a whim. For example, I met Constantin, an enthusiastic young man in a hoodie. He saw a picture, liked it and had it inked within two hours! He’d had his first tattoo two years ago. That had taken OICE MAGAZINE ISSUE 05 - WINTER 2016/17

MID MORNING MIX

three months of deliberation - but now it was addictive. Commitment-phobe as I am, I can’t imagine making this kind of decision. I take longer choosing between a vegan wrap and a sandwich for lunch. Is this why I’m in awe? All these people wincing at the sensation of the tattoo gun have actually made a decision!

So how does all this play out in Switzerland – a country with a reputation for being somewhat reserved? I asked Nico Cennamo, from the One Love tattoo studio in Morges:

A lot of younger people have tattoos that Love them or hate them, there’s a certain are quite exposed and easily seen. But many sense of community surrounding tattoos. It of my customers are bankers, policeman appears dangerous; the biker, the rocker, and people who don’t always want to show their the metal head have all used tattoos as a tattoos. In that aspect they are reserved but in badge of honour. Now, tattoos are less edgy, a way they are more interesting for us. but the sense of community remains. If, like me, you’re fascinated by watching Alexandra Fellay is an Events Co-ordinator people becoming human works of art then pop along to a tattoo convention where, for the Montreux Tattoo Convention. bizarrely enough, it’s not weird to stare! But do What do tattoos mean to you? watch the etiquette: My tattoos are a reflection of my life; my story on my skin. These tattoos are my personality, my delusions, my joys, my misfortunes...

Ask before taking photos, you’ll generally get a nod.

Most artists are happy to answer questions, but avoid too many. They’re concentrating.

As with music and clothing, there’s a 3. community around tattoos because people find themselves in a group of like-minded 4. people.

Many customers are happy to talk. It gives them a break.

Why is there such a sense of community around tattoos?

For some people it’s simply fashion. But for others, it’s a way of life

Flip through the artist’s photo books for an idea of their style. Listen to my full podcast with Nico Cennamo at www.worldradio.ch/midmorningmix

Tattoo conventions upcoming in Switzerland... International Tattoo Convention of Geneva - January 20-22 2017 Ink Days, Zurich - April 7-9 2017 Alchemy Tattoo Expo, Conthey (Valais) - May 20-21 2017 Montreux Tattoo Convention - September 15-17 2017

Listen to the Mid Morning Mix with Katt on WRS, weekdays 10am-12noon OICE MAGAZINE ISSUE 05 - WINTER 2016/17

NEED TO KNOW

NEED to

KNOW © Swiss Press Photo Niels Ackermann OICE MAGAZINE ISSUE 05 - WINTER 2016/17

NEED TO KNOW

Making an impression Manet, Renoir, Degas, Monet, Sisley, Pissarro - it’s a Who’s Who of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist masterpieces. Plus fathers of modernism, Gauguin, Cézanne, Van Gogh... Lausanne’s elegant Fondation de l’Hermitage has pulled out all the stops to present a unique Swiss private collection for a seven-month run starting April 7 2017. The Bührle Collection rarely leaves Zurich – but while a new wing is built at the city’s Kunsthaus it was temporarily homeless! Lausanne stepped in and now these outstanding treasures, acquired chiefly in the 1950s by Zurich-based industrialist Emil Bührle, are on the move. Considered one of the world’s leading collections of 19th and early 20th century European art, highlights include Monet’s Poppies near Vétheuil , Van Gogh’s Sower with Setting Sun and Boy in a Red Waistcoat by Cézanne. The collection also tracks the pathway to early modernism and the rise of the French avant-garde movement.

Jean Widmer, 1959

The bold new extension to Zurich’s prestigious Kunsthaus opens in 2020. UK architect David Chipperfield won the commission to create a new building at Heimplatz, creating a “gateway to the arts” with the nearby Schauspielhaus Theatre and linking with the existing Kunsthaus via underground passageway. www.fondation-hermitage.ch

Designs on Paris Helvetica? International Style? For a small country Switzerland punches above its weight in graphic design and visual communication. Trace the origins of this phenomenon (linked to a penchant for maths and grids or a super-tidy streak?) at Zurich’s Museum of Gestaltung. With 500,000+ posters, design manuals, models and objects – collected since 1875 – this is Swiss design in all its glory. There’s perfectly executed technical printed matter, plus quirky product design and iconic posters. And until March 2017 see special exhibition The Swiss in Paris – Graphic Design and Typography. The focus here is the outreach of Switzerland’s skill and precision with graphics since the 1950s, impacting across Europe and in particular in Paris. There’s photography, film, advertising, corporate design, signage and type design. The Gestaltung collection is currently housed at the cool Schaudepot (the Depot) design centre in Zurich West, which shares a vast industrial-art house location with Zurich University and ZHdK Academy of the Arts. It’s actually the redundant Toni milk processing factory - converted into a CHF170m “flexible space” for alternative arts and culture, plus apartments, shops and a café. Worth a visit for the location alone! www. museum-gestaltung.ch OICE MAGAZINE ISSUE 05 - WINTER 2016/17

NEED TO KNOW

Calling time in Zug Never let it be said that Swiss carpenters don’t know how to have a good time. In Zug, February is the month they traditionally let their hair down and celebrate Greth Schell, marking the legend of local housewife Margarethe Schell. Apparently she finally called time on her husband and dragged him away from a town centre pub crawl – by stuffing him into a huge laundry basket. And yes, he was a carpenter. With a logic known only to themselves, members of the Zug Guild of Carpenters, Turners and Coopers celebrate this event by dressing up as jesters, or Lölis, wearing hats, masks and spotted capes, waving a balloon on a stick (replacing the traditional pigs’ bladder), and making mischief on the evening before Shrove Tuesday. This will be February 27 in 2017 and starts around 4pm. Later, the Greth Schell revellers can be seen in all the Old Town bars – proving that times haven’t changed too much! Meanwhile children love a carnival giveaway, dashing around the narrow streets to scoop up bread rolls, hot sausages and oranges handed out by cheerful Lölis. www.zug-tourismus.ch © Simply Theatre / Pied Pier Production

Catch Burglar Bill Who’s that creeping down the street? Who’s that climbing up the wall? Who’s that coming through the window? It’s Burglar Bill! It shouldn’t really work as a feel-good children’s bedtime tale - but somehow it does and Burglar Bill is a charming rogue with a heart of gold. Now he’s back to his old tricks on stage and a brand new audience of children and parents are laughing at his “I’ll ‘ave that” catchphrase and brazen escapades. The Burglar Bill comic production is inspired by the charming illustrations and gentle humour of British authors Janet and Allan Ahlberg. Their beautiful picture book brought the irascible Bill to life for millions of children – and now the stage show is running to rave reviews. Using puppets, songs, music and dance to animate his adventures on the trail of your prized possessions, the tale of Burglar Bill (and his fortuitous meeting with Burglar Betty), is as young today as it was 40 years ago. Bill started his career as a would-be crook, eating stolen fish and chips and drinking a stolen cup of tea - but ended up stealing the hearts of a generation! Burglar Bill is at the Simply Theatre Studio in Versoix, near Geneva, from March 18 -26 2017. www.simplytheatre.com OICE MAGAZINE ISSUE 05 - WINTER 2016/17

NEED TO KNOW

Cats on Tour... It broke all the records in the West End and on Broadway; it’s creative and bold, the songs are memorable and the characters, well, they’re all cats. Now Andrew Lloyd Webber’s famous musical is back – and the 2017 International Cats Tour has a two-week run in Lausanne from April 25 to May 7. The Théâtre de Beaulieu will present 16 energy-packed shows, with the production’s original creators reunited. Acclaimed director Trevor Nunn is back at the helm, plus choreographer Gillian Lynne and designer John Napier. This was the dream team that launched the show in the 1980s, after Lloyd Webber was inspired by reading T.S Eliot’s Old Possum’s Book of Practical Cats to his children. Since those early days Cats has played in over 30 countries; been translated into 15 languages and enjoyed by over 73 million world-wide. It played for 21 years in London and 18 on Broadway, with both shows winning Grammy Awards for Best Cast Album – including the classic track Memory. Don’t speak cat? The show’s in English with French subtitles.

www.ticketcorner.ch

Surf and turf Glamorous VIPs, fancy fur coats and glorious sunshine on an icy Alpine lake – what’s not to like about the Snowpolo World Cup? For more than 30 years the world’s only highgoal tournament on snow has been played over three spectacular January days in St Moritz. Sponsored by luxury brands Cartier, Badrutt’s Palace Hotel, Maserati, Perrier-Jouët, Deutsche Bank Wealth plus others, it’s obvious the event is pitched at high rollers but admission is free! However, you can pick up a large bill for VIP tickets if you prefer, starting at CHF500. Not quite classy enough? A Gala Pass will cost you CHF850. Then in February it’s the turn of White Turf St Moritz. On three consecutive Sundays 35,000 spectators will line the frozen lake for horse racing, including sprint and gallop events, plus hurdles (yes, hurdles). Don’t miss either the famous Credit Suisse skikjöring challenge, where horses pull a driver on a lightweight ski-cart at up to 50km an hour. Worried about the whole sport on a lake concept? Of course the ice is carefully tested - and because the area is relatively small (and the lake is at 1,850m), there’s little chance of a melt. Or is there? In the 1980s an international ice cricket match attracted British player David Gower, who parked his rental car on the lake overnight. It fell through and sank.. www.snowpolo-stmoritz.com January 27 - 29 2017. www.whiteturf.ch February 12, 19 and 26 2017. OICE MAGAZINE ISSUE 05 - WINTER 2016/17

NEED TO KNOW

Cutting the ties It’s up, up and away at Château-d’Oex in January, as this quiet mountain resort above Montreux climbs into the basket for its spectacular annual celebration of ballooning – the 2017 International Hot Balloon Festival. With hundreds of huge balloons from across the world expected to descend from January 21 to 29, look forward to a pop of colour against a breath-taking snowy mountainscape – with the gentle blast of burners as your soundtrack. There’s also a night-time show, balloon rides and a special kids’ day. Château d’Oex launched the festival in 1979, making this small resort in the Alps Vaudois the ballooning capital of Europe. But there’s one question that seems to hang in the air like a giant montgolfière. How did such a small village become a big hitter on the international ballooning circuit? It’s linked to thermals and tradition – all of which is explained at the Espace Ballon museum, next to the take off area. Note: Solar Impulse pilot and director Bertrand Piccard launched his record-breaking Breitling Orbiter trip from Château d’Oex in 1999. The Lausanne-based explorer and psychiatrist co-piloted the bright red balloon (with UK balloonist Brian Jones) non-stop around the world in less than 20 days. See the Breitling capsule at the museum. © Swiss Press Photo Niels Ackermann

www.chateau-doex.ch

Picture perfect The fascinating Swiss Press Photo 2016 opens as a special exhibition this winter at the Château de Prangins near Nyon, and runs until February 26 2017. It’s a contemporary panorama of the world, as captured by Swiss photo-journalists and film makers. There are categories for world images, video footage, magazine photos and for documentary-style coverage when a photo montage pieces together a complex story. One of the winners is the moving series by Niels Ackermann ‘The Children of Chernobyl Have Grown-Up’. Need another reason to visit? Did you know that the Château de Prangins is one of only eight National Museums of Switzerland? A prestigious group for sure; with the emphasis on representing Swiss culture. And the fine stone walls of Prangins shelter an incredible example of 18th century château life, with original features and classical gardens that were once home to Swiss aristocrat Baron Guiguer. In fact the lakeside gardens are completely unique for their authentic planting. Fancy a tasty veggie? Much of the kitchen garden heritage crop goes direct to the popular Café du Château... www.nationalmuseum.ch

OICE MAGAZINE ISSUE 05 - WINTER 2016/17

BRAND BASEL

Bra

Â© Basel Tourismus

BRAND BASEL

Vitra Haus © Davide Bonina

Basel Kunstmuseum© Julian Salinas

ith the headquarters of pharmagiants Novartis and Roche tucked in close to the Rhine, and the Gothic Münster Cathedral dominating the Medieval Old Town, Basel is not an obvious location for wave-making creativity. But with Switzerland, France and Germany meeting at this bend in the river, the city has embraced change and forged a reputation for innovation. Aldstadt Grossbasel looks across to the narrow, winding streets of Kleinbasel, and people cross back and forth by one of six bridges. Or they take a traditional wooden ferry. For a mini-Basel adventure head to one of the oldfashioned jetties and hop on. The ferries cross the Rhine using the current as power, a single oar for steering and an overhead cable to stay on course! Wandering the city sights? Descend the steep steps and depart from the Aldstadt quayside below the Münster. Art-Basel Drawing tens of thousands of artists, collectors and dealers from around the world, Art Basel is Europe’s No. 1 International Art Fair. Set up in 1970, the brand has grown to include prestigious events in both Miami and Hong Kong. www.artbasel.ch The result is a Swiss city that punches well above its weight.

Basel toy world

A huge river and industrial wealth – but who would have predicted that Basel would create a cityscape of art and culture? But Switzerland’s thirdbiggest city invested wisely; and lowprofile Basel is now high-end cool. Arch-Basel Basel is no metropolis. While the population of 200,000 is increased by thousands of frontaliers every day, Basel at weekends is a haven of calm. So why the big-name architectural heritage? Local Swiss starchitects Herzog & de Meuron have made their mark, plus Mario Botta and Diener & Diener, Richard Meier and Shard-maker Renzo Piano. Industrial Basel had the finance, space and vision to develop its property-capital. Today, bricks and beton brut mark out an incredible skyline. Pick up the Architecture Guide from Basel Tourism at Barfüsserplatz. www.basel.ch

Panton, Alexander Girard, Anton Lorenz and George Nelson. But it also curates and exhibits – presenting some 7,000-plus “key objects of design history”.

Originally commissioned to house the collection of Vitra founders Willi and Erika Fehlbaum, the main gallery/museum is by acclaimed US architect Frank Gehry. It was his first building in Europe and Gehry took some persuading to accept the brief. But following this success the company invited Tate Modern-designers Herzog & de Meuron to build the eye-catching VitraHaus - a house-inthe-clouds display/shop/café space – before For more head-turning commissions hop on going on to commission warehouses and Tram 8 to the Vitra Design Museum, in nearby factory units by Nicholas Grimshaw, SAANA Weil am Rhein. This huge campus is still a and Tadao Ando. An original Jean Prouvé fully-functioning factory, producing exclusive petrol station from the 1950s sits not far from designs in furniture, lighting and interiors from Vitra’s modernist fire station by Zaha Hadid! the archives of Ray and Charles Eames, Verner www.design-museum.de OICE MAGAZINE ISSUE 05 - WINTER 2016/17

BRAND BASEL BRAND BASEL

Contemporary Collections The Schaulager is a fascinating monolithic structure housing the research institute and collection of the Emanual Hoffmann Foundation, set up by Maja Sacher-Stehlin. Although her husband died in a road accident in 1932, Maja continued collecting prodigiously. Today the aim is to preserve, study and share the collection, principally through viewings and special exhibitions. Again, designed by Herzog & de Meuron in 2003, the Schaulager is open by appointment, while special exhibitions and open events attract a savvy art crowd. Not keen on rats? Overcome your inner fears with a close-up of Rat-King, a disturbingly large Katharina Fritsch installation. Another must-see is an Andy Warhol triptych of Maja herself. www.schaulager.org Renzo Piano created the famous Fondation Beyeler, an elegant, low profile building in a glorious Zen-like garden on the edge of Basel. With an exceptional line-up of Picassos, Cézannes, Rothkos and Légers, this is the collection of billionaire Swiss art dealer Ernst Beyeler. The story goes that Beyeler asked Piano to create the perfect setting for Monet’s water lilies – and he did. Check out Kandinsky, Marc & Der Blaue Reiter which runs until January 22 2017: Works from the fascinating Der Blaue Reiter movement, highlighting the avant-garde before World War I. www.fondationbeyeler.ch Museum Tinguely will be a hit with the kids, as who can resist the clanking, turning, whizzing and whirring of these loud and colourful machine sculptures? Again a designer building by Swiss architect Mario Botta, there’s wit, high art and clever gearing at work here – with buttons to press that set a playful movement into life. Jean Tinguely grew up in Basel and studied at the city’s Arts and Crafts School. Helping to found the 1960s Nouveaux Réalistes movement in Paris, he was back in Switzerland by 1964 to create the monumental Heureka sculpture for the Lausanne Expo. In 1970 Tinguely hit the headlines. Setting ablaze a giant golden phallus in front of Milan Cathedral... Less controversially he’s also known for amusing creations at the Centre Georges Pompidou in Paris. www.tinguely.ch OICE MAGAZINE ISSUE 05 - WINTER 2016/17

WHERE TO STAY Hotel Der Teufelhof Leonhardsgraben 49 Each room by a different Swiss designer - with seriously cool results. www.teufelhof.com

Night and Day Party like a Swiss at Basel’s Fasnacht celebration. This famous three-day winter extravaganza is a non-stop carnival that blows away the cobwebs with music, masks and marching. Starting at 4am in the early hours of March 6 2017, Basel beats the drums and parties for 72 hours. It’s crazy and it’s noisy – but the atmosphere’s unique. www.fasnachts-comite.ch Home to the largest public art collection in Switzerland, Basel’s Kunstmuseum has recently added a dynamic new riverside wing by local architects Christ & Gantenbein. Upcoming events include The Figurative Pollock (until January 22 2017) and Nothing for Eternity (until February 26 2107), a focus on Belgian conceptual artist Joelle Tuerlinckx – including photographs, bric-a-brac, printing and sculpture. www.kunstmuseumbasel.ch

Radisson Blu Steinentorstrasse 25 Great location close to station and upmarket Freie Strasse shopping, plus Spa. www.radissonblu.com Basel Youth Hostel, St. Alban-Kirchrain 10 A hidden gem close to the contemporary art scene. Originally a rustic water mill; now with smart designer rooms and a bustling café/bistro. www.youthhostel.ch

WHERE TO EAT/DRINK Kohlmann Barfüsserplatz Beer barrels line the walls of this Basel classic; enjoy Swiss home baking and expect cooked cheese. www.kohlmanns.ch

Kornhaus Kornhausgasse 10 If you go down to the woods today... you could Authentic Basel dishes brought up to speed meet a Teddy from Basel’s Spielzeug Welten by a creative young team. Close to all the – the record-breaking ToyWorlds Museum. Aldstadt sights. Indeed, 6,000-plus Teds, dolls, toys and www.kornhaus-basel.ch miniatures here are strapped into racing cars, playing in the park and relaxing in dolls Bar Rouge houses. There are ancient toys, rare items and Messeplatz 10 the largest collection of bears worldwide – Amazing cityscape views day and night including a Ted from 1904! Don’t miss the from this 31st floor bar/club next to the show-stopping display windows either – even Ramada Plaza. the busiest shoppers stop and stare! www.barrouge.ch www.swmb.com

v a

a b g a ll . . n i

A deliciously sweet vin chaud by a blazing fire, daring deeds on a frozen lake and an exciting dog-sled adventure! Hereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s what the WRS team loves most when the temperature falls...

HAVING A BALL...

WRS Mid Morning Mix Presenter Katt Cullen shares a glass of winter heaven... If it’s chilly on the outside and your fingers are falling off from the cold then I have a little suggestion. Warm up with a vin chaud. Otherwise known as mulled wine or glühwein, each recipe comes with regional differences. But whatever herbs you pop in there, the basic ingredient is the same – it’s hot wine, it’s delicious and it warms you right from the inside! Some people say you should earn a vin chaud by doing something strenuous such as skiing down a mountain. I say getting out of my pyjamas and into the fresh air when the temperature’s in single figures is enough. This little saviour is winter heaven in a cup. Oh yes, please drink responsibly. And save some for me...

WRS Director and Presenter Mark Butcher on keeping warm in Zurich and avoiding winter sports at all costs... As many will confirm – I’m not a big fan of being freezing cold on the side of a mountain. In fact I will go to great lengths to avoid this. Give me a city in winter and I’m happy. Warm bars and warm restaurants. Perfect. On a recent trip to Zurich I discovered “The Butcher”, which seemed like a pretty good name for a burger joint to me! Sat down at a scrubbed pine table, tucked into a tasty homemade burger, chips and salad. And a beer. Job done. The vibe was brisk and busy and the location near Zurich Town Hall (Stüssihofstatt) made it hard to miss. The Butcher has two other addresses in Zurich, and one in Zug. And that’s despite a rather surprising logo in English. Lost in translation is probably the best excuse... www.butcher.ch

WRS Presenter Hansine Johnston beats winter chills with a Spa trip and a cashmere blanket... I am known for hating winter in general so I tend to go undercover during this period. Literally. First, I love a sneaky trip to Les Bains de Lavey, near Martigny, with pools, baths and natural hot springs that have a super-clean, sophisticated Swiss vibe that English friends will not associate with memories of local lidos. Various bubbling, warm, wellness pools outside have proper massage jets - and there’s even a magic river to keep the kids going round … and round. And all with a backdrop of the Alps to complete the experience. At night in winter it’s properly magical and twinkly (open until 10pm). Add a vin chaud (thank you Katt), followed very quickly by a cashmere rug. Did I say I hated winter? www.lavey-les-bains.ch

OICE MAGAZINE ISSUE 05 - WINTER 2016/17

PROMOTION

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HAVING A BALL...

WRS Publication Manager Isabelle Cornet enjoys the call of the wild with an exhilarating dog-sled ride... The speed, the fresh powder, the energy of the pack, the contact with nature – a dog-sled ride feels like a great adventure, with none of the risks! It was a beautiful winter day under an electric blue sky. We made our way to Mont du Villard, at the edge of Megève, walking the final stretch along a quiet trail. The magnificent dogs were ready, barking and straining at the harness. But the moment the musher shouted they fell quiet – they love to run and were keen to set off. The most popular dog sled teams are Siberian Huskies or Malamutes from Alaska – dogs with incredible blue eyes. And how was the ride? Amazing and exciting, especially when I had the chance to steer the dogs. An unforgettable experience with friends or family. www.montduvillard-nord.com

WRS Digital Manager Emma Baumhofer loves skating on Oeschenin Lake... A great winter trip with guests is to Oeschinen Lake in the Bernese Oberland. It’s a quick gondola ride up from Kandersteg, plus a lovely short walk. And when the lake is frozen there’s something magical about climbing over huge slabs of ice on the shore and walking out into the middle. It takes some courage to trust the ice but the 360 views of the mountains are awesome! Had enough of walking on water? Try skating followed by a piping hot glass of glühwein from the lakeside café. Another favourite is spending a day on Mount Titlis in Central Switzerland. From the charming village of Engelberg you take the rotating gondola all the way to the glacier at 3,020 meters. Then steel your nerves and peer into the abyss on the Cliff Walk, Europe’s highest suspension bridge! www.oeschinensee.ch - www.titlis.ch

WRS Marketing Consultant Trudi Hayes sips an apèro in Anzère.. My best kept secret for winter is the gorgeous Alpine resort of Anzère in the Valais. With or without the kids - it’s a very family-friendly resort - the skiing is amazing and there’s something for every level. If you’re pretty fast there are plenty of red and black runs; beginners have a good choice and boarders get a snowpark and boardercross. The views are also magnificent, especially from the terrasse of the Hotel Zodiaque where I can recommend you stop off for an apèro. Then, after a hard day skiing, enjoy the views in the village Spa and wellness centre. www.anzere.ch

OICE MAGAZINE ISSUE 05 - WINTER 2016/17

HAVING A BALL...

WRS Gadget Guru Paul Bristow works up an appetite for hot cheese... In winter one of my favourite things, once the weather gets cold, is to treat myself to a proper Swiss fondue. I prefer moitié-moitié, (made with Gruyère and Fribourg vacherin) - hot and delicious, served with white wine and bread. I particularly like the “Café du Soleil” in Grand-Saconnex, Geneva, and a small place up in the mountains behind Gruyère that I can't remember the name of but I know exactly where it is... Fondue is meant to be shared, so I restrict myself to times when I have friends or family around, otherwise I would end the winter much wider than when I started. I have a similar method for tartiflette although in this case the restriction is that I’m not allowed to order it unless I’ve already snow-shoed up a mountain. Sometimes its tough living in Switzerland!

WRS Dig It Presenter Hester Macdonald loves a snowy winter walk through the trees... The Arboretum in Aubonne is one of the best-kept secrets in the region and is absolutely magnificent in winter. The evergreen pines and other conifers stand out in the landscape, even better with a dusting of snow, and the late autumn colour of the maples and cherry trees lasts for several months in the sheltered valley. With the visitor centre closed until spring, you have the whole 130 hectares to yourself, and more than 3,000 different trees to enjoy in the largest collection in Switzerland. They are planted the length of the Aubonne valley, and vary from North and East American forest trees to a magnificent collection of Japanese cherries, oaks and heritage apple and pear trees. Free to visit, quiet and full of trees, what are you waiting for? Get out and find your inner Dryad!

WRS Commercial Director Ian Smith on winter cricketing madness in St Moritz... As a lover of British sport, nothing reminds me more of glorious summers past than the sound of willow hitting leather and the taste of cucumber sandwiches, washed down with a Pimms. But cricket in winter? Played on snow? In one of the world’s most iconic ski resorts? Well, that’s just cricketing madness isn’t it? Yet it takes place every February in the heart of Switzerland. Cricket on Ice in St. Moritz is a sensational and incongruous experience, inviting international teams to participate in the most prestigious event in the Swiss cricketing calendar … at the height of the ski season! Howzat for madness? www.cricket-on-ice.com.

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PROMOTION

L’ATELIER – BY CALIFORNIA T: +41 (0)22 733 43 23 latelier@thefitnessbycalifornia.ch www.fitnessbycalifornia.ch With a great contemporary club ambiance, inspirational workouts and coaching, plus a cool bar area to meet friends and relax; l’Atelier by California Fitness Geneva, will become part of your life! Integrating exercise into your routine is super-important and training at l’Atelier is about energy, fun and meeting people. Group and individual coaching keep fitness on track, plus fun extras like DJs and rappers help motivate and keep workouts fresh. And when the hard work’s done chill out at the trendy industrial-vibe bar. California is well-known in Geneva as the leading independent, quality brand and l’Atelier is located perfectly for the UN and international organisations. The tram stops outside and there’s ample parking. Plus easy access creates a practical lifestyle choice: 6am - 10pm Monday to Friday 9am - 6pm weekends. Choose from a tailor-made personal gym session or mix it up with dynamic group sessions. Offering the world famous Les Mills programme, including Body Combat, Grit Cardio, Body Pump, Spinning, Step and Sprint, l’Atelier is unique in Geneva with Pole Dance Fitness, a workout with incredible core impact. Long day at work? Try short, intense 30 min TRX sessions or the new Small Team option, linking with others at your level to optimise on professional, personal coaching. Need to relax? Pilates, Yoga and Modern Jazz promote flexibility and strength. Changing areas at l’Atelier are also immaculate and the wellequipped gym spaces are supervised by qualified trainers. Call in to l’Atelier and book a try-out session– you’ve so much to gain from feeling fit and confident. Why l’Atelier? Think workout with a cool industrial vibe. How do I fit gym classes around my office hours? With l’Atelier that’s easy. Open 6am to 10pm weekdays- so you’ve no excuse! Will I stay motivated? Certainly – no two days are the same if you mix action-packed classes with solo training; plus Small Teams with personal cardio sessions. L’Atelier – ch de la Voie-Creuse 16 - Geneva (at the junction of av. de France) OICE MAGAZINE ISSUE 05 - WINTER 2016/17

MEDIA FRONTIER

Augmented Reality Bites

‘I do think that a significant portion of the population of developed countries, and eventually all countries, will have AR experiences every day, almost like eating three meals a day. It will become that much a part of you’ - Tim Cook, Apple CEO

Lisa Kerrigan, Client Services Director at Switzerland’s leading creative digital agency Media Frontier looks at how Augmented Reality is going mainstream - and heading for your daily life!

ou would have to live high in the hills to avoid the inescapable force of nature that is Pokémon Go. Not only did it add billions to Nintendo’s market value overnight, it propelled us into a new perspective on our reality. Such is its popularity, that one day as I stood at the office window musing over a new client strategy; I spotted one of our obsessed digital team members darting around the car park trying to catch one of his colourful virtual buddies...

Over the next decade, literally every company will compete on the basis of experience. In fact, they already do - most just don’t realise what that really means, what’s at stake, or how to do it well. - Forrester

The crucial part of advising on AR is whether or not it brings value to your audiences. Most of us – in this all-consuming digital age - don’t want gimmicks and games and we all get tired of scanning brand logos and watching ads. But would it be useful to hold your phone above a magazine advert and immediately experience how a new sofa might fit into your home? Chris Shiels, Head of Technology at Media Frontier shares his passion for the future of marketing with AR apps; ‘The possibilities for businesses in Switzerland to improve their interactions with audiences and customers are endless. I would love people to be able to point their phones at a building or business park and see the available recruitment opportunities, or to hold your phone to a new product and have it explain itself and its benefits. We as consumers are a pretty savvy lot. We don’t just buy brands for what they are anymore, but for what they can propose to do for us’.

Keen to capture and capitalise on the excitement of such an interactive experience, there’s been a dramatic increase in interest from clients keen to include Augmented Reality apps into their digital marketing mix. Most of our clients know their audiences are now digital natives and, in response need to apply the Augmented reality (AR) apps are not about newest digital technologies to achieve the creating a new reality, they are about working with and enhancing what already exists. When highest levels of engagement. the virtual is combined with the physical and For many of Switzerland’s largest companies visually interacts with it, that’s when AR magic and organisations, the question for 2017 is happens. As opposed to virtual reality, which how to use leading-edge digital tools to make immerses you into a different world, AR inter- AR offers a leap towards the revolutionary in communications more memorable, more twines virtual, interactive visual elements with communication, interaction and information unique - and to bring audiences closer. the real world. enhancement and could change the fabric of our day-to-day lives. Augmented Reality – as It’s estimated that this growing industry will be an emerging technology that’s already here – worth over CHF120 billion by 2020, and that’s has the potential to impact our future just as thanks to the minimal investment needed by much as the smartphone has in the last few audiences to experience augmented reality! years. Let’s hope marketeers realise its potenAll you need is your smartphone, your tablet tial for making our lives a whole lot easier and or computer. fun! OICE MAGAZINE ISSUE 05 - WINTER 2016/17

MEDIA FRONTIER

So how can AR become part of your daily life without becoming irritating? There are a surprising number of ways that don’t just involve rushing around collecting little Japanese digital creations (although the same colleague did lose 4kg in a month with all that running)!

TRANSLATION I’ll never forget arriving in Colmar for my first French exchange experience armed with my pocket Larousse. While it’s a fond memory, Google Translate would have solved all my worries. But why does it need AR? Open the new app and hold your phone up to a public sign or notice board. You’ll get a full translation without typing anything!

ENHANCING PRINT AND ADVERTISING One of the biggest requests we get is how to make brochures, annual reports or products more engaging. This is where the MF team gets excited. Hold your phone over that static graph or map and see it magically come to life – making it more understandable and memorable. Allowing AR to bring life to static text and images is one of the easiest new opportunities for improving audience experience. Favourite fun AR app? Scan a Vespa ad and testdrive a little two wheeler across your desk!

MUSEUMS AND ART EXPLORATION Switzerland is blessed with fantastic museums and galleries, many with great audio tours and displays. But if you limit the experience to what you can see and hear, it’s only part of the picture...Look at the AR trend at the London Science Museum for a glimpse of what the technology offers.

INTERIOR DESIGN Avoid Saturday shopping and see if that new sofa works in your living room. IKEA has been using this fun and hugely time-saving functionality for a while now.

ENTERTAINING THE KIDS Colouring with crayons is a rainy day activity for children everywhere - but wouldn’t it be nice if those pages actually did something? Enter Crayola Color Alive. This free app literally takes your drawings off the page. Scan coloured pages into the app, and kids aren’t just creating a colouring page — they’re making animated characters that move and interact!

TRAVELLING AROUND If arriving at Zürich central Bahnhof with zero Swiss German has you breaking into a sweat, check out the app Departures Switzerland to make your public transport life that bit easier. Point your phone towards the nearest stop and see relevant destination information overlaid into the real world! Plus real-time updates on arrivals/departures.

Lisa Kerrigan works for Media Frontier, Switzerland’s leading creative digital agency. Media Frontier specialize in delivering digital innovation, customized content and global campaigns that inspire and engage audiences. If you need a team to help create a change in your business, or a change in the world, let them know. info@mediafrontier.ch

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Paws for Thought

INSIGHT

Looking for cute puppies to cuddle and tall tales of canine bravery? Welcome to Barryland – home to Switzerland’s gentlest giants. by Katy Dartford

hen WRS News Editor Katy Dartford heard the pitter-patter of tiny paws at the famous Grand St Bernard centre in Martigny, our dog-loving colleague was on the road in seconds. Of course her first question was why Barryland? Of all the impressive pedigree names, why is Barry leader of the pack? Well, St Bernard folklore tells us that it was a big, beautiful, brown-eyed hero called Barry who set out from the Holy Order of the Grand St Bernard Monastery one freezing, stormy night in 1805. Discovering a small boy lost among the snow drifts, Barry carried him home. This brave mountain rescue, and as many as 40 other similar feats, turned Barry into the poster boy for mountain dogs worldwide. In fact only dogs bred at Martigny from the same pedigree line as Barry are entitled to call themselves Grand St Bernards. Here’s the low-down from WRS newshound Katy...

Nine new puppies have arrived at Barryland – and are ready to meet the public. Their parents are long-haired female Hesta du Grand St. Bernard and the short-haired male Face des Joly Monts de Villiers.

The media release landed on my desk – and I grabbed my car keys. Cuddly puppies and snowcapped mountains all wrapped up in one news feature? Why waste time asking questions? Definitely a good day at the coal-face of investigative journalism. The St Bernard is known as a patient, gentle giant who sports a small barrel of brandy around his neck to save avalanche victims – although the monks of Grand St Bernard dispute that they ever offered alcohol as a life-saver. (No hair of the dog there then...) Setting up a refuge for travellers on the high Alpine pass in the 11 th century, they found that large mountain dogs made perfect companions, guides and protectors. The breed they nurtured became known as Grand St Bernards and hundreds of tales of their incredible bravery and fortitude have been handed down across the years. Barry himself lived to 14, which is an exceptional age for a giant breed – swapping the cold peaks for a warm retirement in Bern. In 2005, Fondation Barry took over the breeding kennels and created a centre with immaculate credentials in canine care and training. Today you can meet and play with the St Bernards, see them being groomed – and even join them on a walk.

My personal highlight? Watching huge doggy teeth being cleaned with chicken-flavoured toothpaste A SAINTLY SOUL

It may be more than 200 years ago since brave Barry patrolled the snow-covered peaks of the Valais in search of lost travellers – but his legend lives on at the Barry Museum in Bern. Housed in a wing of the city’s Natural History Museum, this permanent exhibition is dedicated to the life and times of Switzerland’s most With male St Bernards weighing in at 75kg, and famous life-saving St Bernard, drawing dogfemales at 65kg, this is not a pet to be taken lovers from around the world to admire lightly. And with 33 dogs at Barryland the food paintings, photos and even a 200 year old bills are high. In centuries past the dogs were visitors’ book! Taken from records kept at the donated to the monastery by rich local families; Alpine refuge of Grand St Bernard, these are today there’s a carefully controlled breeding tales of bravery in the face of danger from programme and the dogs enjoy VIP vet- terrible winter storms and dark, freezing nights. monitored treatment. Can’t wait to visit this Did Barry really carry out all the acts of heroism kennel of cuteness? See a live puppy-cam, plus attributed to him? No one is too sure but he did details of opening hours, walks and grooming at make 40 documented rescues – so was certainly an exceptional dog. And the Barry www. foundation-barry.ch Museum perpetuates the magic! Kids will love seeing the stuffed remains of Barry himself, plus there’s a hard to resist Barry Me photo booth. www.barry.museum.ch

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GADGET GURU

Social Network W

hether your interests are mountain hiking, early morning yoga by the lake, electric cars, or street knitting (yes, really - look it up) it can be a challenge to find like-minded people, especially when you’re new to a region. Fortunately technology can help. It has never been easier to find people interested in the things you like. Meetup. com is an online service bringing people together on different topics. It's free to search for meet-ups and join in. They charge to post your own meet-ups, but it’s a great way to find interesting people.

WRS Gadget Guru Paul Bristow on meeting interesting people - and getting them organised. Can technology boost your social skills? Here’s how: Discussions and Documents

You'll need a way to send emails to everyone. Usually you start out with a list of cc’d email addresses, but this rapidly becomes difficult to manage, with people being left out by accident. A Google Group is a combination of email list and discussion forum. It facilitates Having located your group of people it's discussions between group members, time to get organised. This is where and you only have one list of members to technology can really help! Productivity maintain. Keep it up to date and no-one sounds like something for working hours gets left out! but in fact it's more important for your A really nice feature of Google Groups is "spare time", as you have so little of it! that it can be used as the authorised user There are plenty of free services to help list for a shared Google Drive folder. you organise your social groups - whether Google Drive supports any file types, and it's just a bit of fun, or a fully-fledged includes an online, shared office association. I'll share a few of my equivalent, where multiple members can favourites: work on documents simultaneously. This is especially useful in a physical meeting where you can get multiple documents written up in parallel if members bring their laptops.

Shared Project Management Trello.com is my go-to project management tool. Imagine a to-do list that you could add photos, videos, and websites to, as well as links to Google Drive and Dropbox. This is great for keeping track of who's doing what, and when. Talking to the world You'll need a website. Wordpress.com is one of my favourite tools but there are plenty of others. Or let the person creating the site choose the tool. For a mailing list to send announcements - different from the discussion group above - I use Mailchimp.com It's simple to create very professional looking emails and track to see if they’ve been read. Finally, Facebook and Twitter are useful but much more for publicity than organisation, as you cannot guarantee that people will see the posts.

When to meet? Finding the right time for meetings can be difficult, so doodle.com is another free site making it easy to find who's interested and when they’re available. You simply post up a set of dates and times, and people tick the ones that suit them best. All you do next is select the most popular available date.

How far can you go with this? One group that I'm working with - g3id.org - is using all of these to organise the Geneva Global Goals Innovation Day with NGOs from Geneva’s International community. With the right tools you can really get stuff done, and even have fun doing it.

GADGET GURU WITH PAUL BRISTOW Paul Bristow is a founder of Pangloss Labs, the Open Innovation Centre and ecological FabLab in the Geneva region, and the CEO of Clear Thinking. As a former CTO with a background in robotics, digital media and communications, he makes business sense of the innovation opportunities presented by open source hardware, software, data and knowledge.

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The Inside Track... Mountain Me Time

in Megève Hansine Johnston wanders through an indulgent day – staying clear of the slopes yet avoiding ski-resort FoMO!

Instead of that Fear of Missing Out sensation as skiers stomp past you on their way to the piste, this quaint cobbled town lends itself perfectly to indulgent days. In fact it’s wonderfully easy to blend in with elegant Megève regulars perusing stylish stores, eating and drinking with gusto and indulging in state of the art Spa treatments, without breaking the bank. Really.

Formes et Utopie If traditional chalet chic isn’t your thing then here’s a more contemporary option with directional wallpaper and quirky finds. Seek out a Missoni blanket for the ultimate winter warmer - so cool you’ll want to wear it! Win one with WRS on page.40. www.formesetutopie.com

SHOP You can party in Megève if you want to, but the best way to do this town is to channel your inner aristocrat and take a stroll with a statement coat, extra large shades and matching dog. Ok the dog’s optional but you get the picture. Shopping and lunching - then afternoon Spa treatment and an early evening apèro …

Big Boss For a classic Megève-style designer feast this place is a reference point. Feeling flush? Kit out the whole family with a full designer look. Every known brand from Balmain to Saint Laurent, for the full lavish, luxury label look, both on and off-piste. bigbossmegeve.com

Picture It’s not all about the bling - so check out this ethical skiwear brand. From cool surf dude t-shirts in organic cotton to full ski wear made from recycled polyester. Ski chic with a soul. www.picture-organic-clothing.com

Arpin Sumptuous yet understated mountain style for your Alpine retreat. Superinformed staff will guide you into a world of made – to - measure layers of pared down luxury and offer interior design services. The focus is on Made in France, independent designers and artisans. arpin1817.com

STYLE FILE

EAT Scarlett As the snow settles outside what better treat than a classic title by a roaring fire. This traditional book store is crammed full of interesting finds in English and French. www.scarlett-megeve.com

Fusalp Super-stylish, slimline skiwear with a retro twist. Since the Lacoste family has been involved Fusalp has gone upmarket and their well-cut ski pants and sculpted jackets are the fashionista’s go-to. www.fusalp.com

Flocons Village The foodies favourite lunch spot and sister to the legendary Michelin-starred Flocon du Sel. Interesting and delicate cuisine with fast service and reasonable prices. www.floconsdesel.com

Nano Caffè Sometimes you just want to escape from the cheese. Great quality Tapas with a mixture of seasonal offerings and refreshing twists. Check out spicy ceviche and Corsican specialities … T: +33(0)450212501

SPA Nowhere beats Megève for perfect pampering... For the ultimate indulgence grab a towel and drop in to luxury hotel les Fermes de Marie for a five star Pure Altitude Spa experience. This hotel is THE address in Megève, and a signature location of the Sibuet group. Why not try a Detox and Pampering: "A complete facial adapted to the age of your skin, combining manual techniques with the use of hot stones and jade rollers, leaving the skin pure and fresh.” www.fermesdemarie.com Not feeling quite so indulgent? Megeve’s recently revamped Le Palais offers a bargain day-Spa ticket with fantastic snowy views, super-warm indoor pools and a range of treatments. www.megeve.fr

OK Burger Local legend says it’s the best burger in France. There’s nothing more you can add to that! T: +33(0)612943437

STYLE FILE WITH HANSINE JOHNSTON Style File is a dynamic half-hour show packed with hot tips on what to wear and how to wear it, the latest style events, beauty and wellbeing - all presented with Hansine's signature fun style. Tune in for fascinating interviews and more, Thursday at 10am. PLUS - The Inside Track, a regular travel feature with the spotlight on stylish shops, cafes and insider addresses. Listen to the Style File on WRS. See schedule on p94. OICE MAGAZINE ISSUE 05 - WINTER 2016/17

t s i tL

Terminal Neige © L. Di Orio, C. Arnal & DR

o H

s l e t o

Keep your cool this winter with a hot weekend getaway. And as the temperatures plunge we’re thinking Bar & Spa... Terminal Neige - Totem in Flaine is a statement béton brut hotel, rocking a unique retro-vibe, a buzzing après ski scene and a great ski-in, skiout location. Linger at the trendy zinc bar with incredible mountain vistas. Check out luxury three-bed Architect’s Loft, with private terrace. Star-gazing from the outdoor Jacuzzi? It’s all yours at exclusive Pure Altitude Spa. www.terminal-neige.com OICE MAGAZINE ISSUE 05 - WINTER 2016/17

By J

une

Whit

HOT LIST HOTELS

City break calling? Lyon’s latest must-stay combines ancient stone cloisters with vintagelux interiors. Fourvière Hotel is a brand new concept, within the vaults of a historic convent. Check in under a painted ceiling then head for the bustling bar and restaurant. Rooms and suites showcase 70s furniture while the cool Spa boosts a 25m corridor pool, hamman and ice fountain! www.fourviere-hotel.com Get your skates on for a classy stay at the iconic Dolder Grand Hotel and Spa in Zurich. Built in the 1890s this hillside landmark has the air of an aging billionaire’s retreat! But make no mistake – service and rooms are bang up to date. And sister hotel The Dolder Sports is only a stroll away. Twirl around its famous ice rink before ducking into the Igloo Bar for a tasty gluhwein. www.thedoldergrand.com

See and be seen at The Widder Hotel, No.1 for architectural style and a central location in Zurich. With polished steel staircases, spaceage lifts and suspended glass corridors, the 5* Widder links nine medieval cottages to create stunning designer rooms and the No. 1 bar in town! There’s even a mini lobby art gallery, with an Andy Warhol original. www.widderhotel.com Driven by Design – that’s the mantra at The Hotel in Lucerne. And with French starchitect Jean Nouvel on the case, this deluxe boutique option is watertight on style. Elegant studios and suites feature original design pieces from Nouvel, plus clever kitchenettes, while a choice of four bars (and five restaurants) puts an end to early nights! www.the-hotel.ch Lean in at the bar with an ice-cold Schnapps as you zoom through 91 tunnels and across 300 snow-covered bridges. Ok, so it’s not a hotel but The Glacier Express has a wonderful bar – and prime views as it flashes through epic countryside from Zermatt to St Moritz (or Davos). Seasoned travellers book ahead for three-course dining. www.glacierexpress.ch

Rustic-chic Lodge Park in the heart of Mègeve is all about understated luxury - with a contemporary chalet-style that’s a million miles from Heidi twee. Deep sofas around a blazing fire? Tick. Leather recliners and cowskin rugs? Tick. Super-smart Spa? Tick. VIP access to Beef Lodge dining and Lodge Bar plus family spaces for weekend ski treats. www.lodgepark.com Swim out as the snow flakes tumble - finding the perfect mountain retreat just got easier thanks to Spa des Bisses at the Hôtel Nendaz 4 Vallées. Float on your back and relax as steam from the super-warm outdoor pool mingles with the cool night air, creating a magical mist of sparkling village lights and silhouetted peaks. www.hotelnendaz4vallees.ch OICE MAGAZINE ISSUE 05 - WINTER 2016/17

l y n o w e ay h T

p u ! s i Mountainlover or cosy fireside fiend – snowflakes on a ski slope and rays of winter sunshine on an icy lake never fail to bring a sparkle to the eye. We live in a beautiful, natural region and when the snow falls there’s a wealth of charming mountain resorts that spring into life – a host of ski instructors at the ready and a sprinkling of gorgeous candle-lit hotels and Spas to tempt you in at the end of the day... WRS and Voice Magazine have put their heads together to bring you a selection of some of the brightest and the best. It’s the latest edition of the WRS Winter Guide

– enjoy! © Megève Tourisme / Daniel Durand

WINTER GUIDE PROPMOTION

SKI MEGÈVE T: + 33 (0)4 50 21 57 10 skipass.megeve.com All the charm of a traditional Alpine village, stunning natural beauty and a taste for the high life - it has to be Megève. Just an hour from Geneva, with some of the most beautiful downhill trails in the Alps, plus gastronomic restaurants and delicious menus served on the slopes, Megève has its own unique identity. Attractive horse-drawn sleighs gather in front of the picturesque church and shoppers enjoy retail heaven - it’s an authentic ski village with a reputation for sport, sunshine, culture and tradition. Whether you ski hard and fast or enjoy a gentle piste with the family through snow-covered pines, Megève has the perfect day for you! Arrive by car and find convenient parking at all the ski lifts. Access to the slopes couldn't be easier in Megève, with great areas to choose from. Take off from sunny Mont d’Arbois or ski the beautiful Rochebrune domain. Still not tired? Check out seven snow parks and 400km of downhill skiing! PLUS: Megève joins MONT BLANC Unlimited! Now you can ski the entire Mont Blanc region with one ski pass - from December to May. Start your adventure with Megève and enjoy a unique experience in the incredible environment of the Mont Blanc glacier and its beautiful resorts; including Chamonix, Courmayeur in Italy and Swiss-favourite Verbier. Three countries – almost 1,000km of pistes!

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Â© Simon Garnier

WINTER SPORTS, RUSTIC CHARM, GREAT FOOD AND A HEAVY SPRINKLE OF CLASSY SHOPPING

MAGICAL MEGÈVE

Magical Megève T

he well-heeled Rothschilds put Megève on the map in 1910 – and they’re still here. Hang out at classy La Tavern du Mont d’Arbois and bump into younger members of the clan. The family owns five restaurants, including mountainside L’Auberge de la Côte 2000 and the VIP Chalet du Mont d’Arbois. www.montdarbois.fr

HERE’S WHAT NOT TO MISS IN MEGÈVE...

So Megève was quiet and sleepy before the in-crowd arrived. But what did people do all day? ‘Farming’ is the short answer. Check out la Ferme de Chénou for oldschool rustic, plus cows, calves and horses. Book ahead for a tour and milk tasting. T+33 (0)7 70 68 55 48. Famous for le fuseau, the original stirrup ski pants, Megève’s AAllard sports emporium is still going strong. With original patterns and sketches going back to the 1920s, AAllard claims to have been ahead of the game. What did folks wear before that? Apparently old golfing trousers were de rigueur... www.aallard.com Ever wondered why there’s no radical architecture in Megève? A le Corbusier ski house for example? Not allowed. Architect/ planner Henry-Jacques le Même took inspiration from traditional farmhouses. See classics at la Croix des Percets, le Grizzly and le Cairn.

Ready to slope off? Who could resist Megève’s designer boutiques for haute couture, glamorous bags and shoes, plus latest sports wear. Don’t forget to browse the artisanal producers either – great local cheeses, bread, jams and preserves plus vintage wines. Spa Trek. Nowhere beats Megève for pampering... and the recently revamped Palais des Sports offers a stylish day-Spa bargain. Check out Pure Altitude products and snowy views from the pool. www.megeve.com Handmade skis anyone? Rip ‘n Wud is a family-owned Haute Savoie brand that’s taken the bespoke ski sector by storm. Beginner or pro rider, there’s nothing quite as cool, or as carefully engineered. Find them at Hors Piste in Megève. www.ripnwud.com

Skiing not your thing? Then take a swing at the BMW Snow Golf Cup - a January crowd-pleaser over nine holes at the picturesque Mont d’Arbois club. www.wintergolfcup.com

OICE MAGAZINE ISSUE 05 - WINTER 2016/17

PROMOTION

LE PALAIS – MEGÈVE THE FUN STARTS HERE... www.megeve.com Megève opens the doors this winter on an incredible new-look Le Palais – remodelled and extended to be a unique and versatile facility for family, friends or colleagues. With 10,000m2 of sport, swimming, fitness, Spa and high-tech conference space all in a single super-smart location, Le Palais in Megève ensures that business and pleasure do mix! Whether you’re planning a family ski holiday, weekend break or an office training day, time in Megève is always well spent. But include the new Le Palais in your itinerary - one of the largest indoor activity facilities in the region - and a great trip turns into a memorable one. Dive into an Olympic swimming pool, enjoy ice skating or watch a hockey match, tackle the fully-equipped climbing wall or indulge at the day Spa. There’s also a high-tech gym with personal training to get your fitness on track. All this and you never once forget you’re in the mountains – with fabulous Mont Blanc views and snowy vistas from every window. And when it’s icy cold outside, Le Palais ensures that the whole family’s warm and active inside!

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Côté Séminaire: Bring your next meeting, conference or training day to Megève. Three fully-equipped spaces, tailored perfectly to your event. Great option too for accommodation, dining and team-building activities.

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Spa: Massages and hydro-therapy at bargain prices, while a 32C bubble pool lifts the spirit. Enjoy a warm counter-current swim, thermal massage beds, hammam plus relaxing light therapy zone.

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Espace Forme: New generation cardio and gym equipment, plus personal coaching and dynamic group classes – including spin biking, pilates, zumba and yoga.

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Escalade: Forget mountaineering – this high-tech wall offers some 5,500 possible moves in complete safety. Family fun or team-building challenge.

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Sauna: Private sauna in a wooden cabin? Perfect for small groups and families after a day on the slopes.

MY MEGÈVE

My World Cup mogul winner and five-times French Freestyle Champion Anthony Benna has skied in Megève all his life. We asked the 29 year old if the resort still held any surprises...

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“I was born in this region and have skied with the Club des Sports de Megève since 1996, so I know the area pretty well. My favourite skiing? Cote 2000 because the shade in winter creates the best snow – and that’s where I won the World Cup in 2015! Where to have a drink? Megève has some great places but my favourite is S Bar where I meet up with friends I’ve known since childhood. Fancy a day off skiing? For visitors there are so many activities to try. Snow shoeing, dog sledding, the new Palais with ice skating, swimming, climbing, the gym, tennis, the Spa … Megève nightlife? An excellent restaurant, a bar, a club – it’s all there for those who want to stretch out the evening. What’s so special? I think there’s a charm that you don’t find everywhere – when you wander through the cobbled streets and see the horse-drawn carriages, the huge pine tree decorated all winter - it’s always surprising. Plus Megève’s a dynamic, sporty village with a ski area that works for everyone, even little ones!”

OICE MAGAZINE ISSUE 05 - WINTER 2016/17

COMPETITION MEGÈVE

It’s the great WRS and VOICE Magazine winter giveaway in Megève – and here’s how to win... YOUR chance to WIN fantastic MEGÈVE prizes worth thousands is just one click away! Listen to WRS in the mornings for competition updates and then go to worldradio.ch to enter. In fact, WRS has fantastic giveaways and prizes* all winter so tune in now – you could be our next lucky winner

Listen to WRS

and enter on worldradio.ch

WIN From December to April!

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Win WIN a fabulous super-soft Missoni blanket worth €390 from leading Megève design store, Formes & Utopie. This stylish concept store is so cool it even has its own art gallery. Browse interior design icons as well as fresh and creative new brands. www.formesetutopie.com

WIN a gorgeous Baobab handmade scented candle from Scarlett, the Megève address for books, art, antiques and deco. Indeed a curatedcollection of 20th centuary design. www.scarlett-megeve.com

WIN a luxury two-day escape at the gorgeous Lodge Park Hotel & Spa worth more than €1,200. Your stay at this cool 4* VIP hangout in the heart of Megève includes a wonderful chalet-luxe double room, two delicious breakfasts PLUS entry to the hotels’ exclusive Pure Altitude day Spa! Love contemporary chalet-chic? Then you won’t want to leave this amazing hotel. www.lodgepark.com

WIN an exciting dog sled adventure tour for two across the snowy slopes of Mont du Villard, with incredible Mont Blanc views and the call of the wild! Speed along with the boundless energy of the dogs and enjoy a close-up with nature. www.montduvillard-nord.com OICE MAGAZINE ISSUE 05 - WINTER 2016/17

WIN exclusive handmade wood core skis from Rip’nWud, worth over €1,600! Renowned for quality and precision, Rip’nWud are the skis for BIG MOUNTAIN riding. With a premium white ash wood core and North American walnut finish, your bespoke high-performance GTX Carve skis offer incredible control and balance. www.ripnwud.com

WIN a voucher worth €200 for a spree at Megève outdoor specialist Hors-Pistes. Choose from leading quality brands in ski clothing and boots, gloves, hats and accessories, plus the latest Hors-Pistes edit across a range of winter sports. horspistes.megeve@gmail.com *Terms and conditions may apply.

PROMOTION

HORS-PISTES T: +33(0)9 81 46 09 25 73 rue monseigneur Conseil, Megève horspistes.megeve@gmail.com Discover a world of nature and adventure – and choose stylish outdoor sports brands with respect for the environment! Check out clothing and equipment from Norwegian hardcore label Amundsen Sports (known for its Antartica-tested merino wool), top German brand Hanwag and US leader Outdoor Research. Plus: handmade wooden Freeride skis from Rip'NWud, the last word in retro high-tech! With the focus on authentic ecoquality, Hors-Pistes is proud to stock tough Swedish brand Fjällräven, famous for cool bags and backpacks (using materials from recycled plastic) , jackets and clothing. Like a vintage look? Find Powderhorn at Hors-Pistes - an acclaimed US outdoor brand from Wyoming, with a 1970s twist! It’s known for duvet jackets, warm knits, leather and waterproofs. Sweet Protection is another class act for skiwear, including anti-shock carbon helmets. Hors-Pistes also stocks Scott goggles and helmets, plus tough French-made In’bô eyewear, with creative wood frames and anti-reflection or polarized lenses. More great sunglasses come from the Kikies glacier range, complete with interchangeable leather side protection. Finally, don’t forget what lies beneath – Hors-Pistes loves Supernatural thermal and merino wool underwear! OICE MAGAZINE ISSUE 05 - WINTER 2016/17

TRAVEL CHAMONIX

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So you think you know Chamonix? Breathtaking skiing, head-rush snowboarding, paragliding, heliski, ice climbing and the incredible off-piste powder of the Vallée Blanche – the thrills are endless. But what if you prefer your feet on the ground? Here are four surprising tales from Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, including mysterious crystals and a James Bond drama...

by Katy Dartford

Chamonix may be the adrenalin capital of the Alps, but extreme sports are just the start in this fascinating high-altitude resort... Frankenstein inspired Two hundred years ago a trio of England's leading literary figures made a trip to Chamonix… a trip which became notorious.

Crystal maze

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Holding back the tide

Staying with the Mer de Glace, did you know that this 7km long glacier is the largest in France and moves forward about 90m annually? This is linked to ice flow, but it also Poet Percy Shelley and future wife, Mary went believed to be retracting by about 7.5m a year. to visit Lord Byron at the Villa Diodati by Lake Take the Montenvers funicular railway from Geneva. One night in June 1816, in the middle Chamonix for an incredible ascent to 1,900m. of a dramatic storm, Byron challenged them Step out at the station and be prepared for to write a ghost story - and the seeds of Mary amazing Alpine vistas, an freezing wind and Shelley’s novel ‘Frankenstein’ were sown. perilous views into the icy heart of the glacier. Although access to the Mer de Glace ice cave A month later they visited Chamonix and set (chiseled out afresh each summer) can be eyes on the Mer de Glace. limited in winter, the hair-raising Step in the Void viewing platform remains open at the “This,” Mary Shelley wrote in her diary, “is the nearby Aiguille du Midi. Also known as the most desolate place in the world,” and she Skywalk, for reasons that will become chose the glacier as the setting for the terrible obvious, this is basically a glass cage hanging scene where Victor Frankenstein learns of the precipitously out over the freezing snowscape horrifying murder of his loved ones by the at 3,800m. www. chamonix.com for tickets monster he created. and times.

More than 200 years ago, Jacques Balmat, claimed the historic first ascent of Mont Blanc (August 1786), with Dr Michel-Gabriel Paccard, establishing Chamonix as the birthplace of modern mountaineering. But these were not pleasure-seekers. They were crystal hunters. Since the middle ages, local farmers had searched the mountain rocks for quartz to sell to watch manufacturers and chandelier-makers in Geneva and Milan. As mountaineering developed in the 19th century, these crystal hunters – who knew the terrain like the back of their hands - diversified to become mountain guides. In 2006 the Musée des cristaux was inaugurated - which currently houses more than 500 specimens from the Mont Blanc massif and around the world. www.mineralogie-chamonix.org Shaken not stirred In the famous Bond novels by Ian Fleming, James' parents (Scotsman Andrew Bond and Monique Delacroix-Bond from Vaud in Switzerland) were killed in a climbing accident in the Aiguilles Rouges near Chamonix. Eleven year old orphan James, who already had a first-class command of French and German, was dispatched to live with an aunt in Canterbury, England. Fast forward a few years and James was back - as a student at the University of Geneva.

WIN two glamorous nights at celebrityfavourite eco-lodge & Spa Les Chalets de Philippe in Chamonix worth CHF2,000* Plus a FREE delicious dinner at the hotel’s gourmet restaurant Les Tables du Chef and access to the ultimate exclusive Spa. Unwind in front of a roaring log fire, check out the exclusive cinema lounge or follow deer tracks along a forest path! Amazing nature, Mont Blanc vistas, eco-lodge credentials, plus easy access to Chamonix’s most exciting skiing. www.chaletsphilippe.com For how to win this fabulous WRS prize see Wake Up and Win p 40. ©Les chalets de Philippe OICE MAGAZINE ISSUE 05 - WINTER 2016/17

*Prize for two people – conditions may apply.

WINTER GUIDE PROMOTION

CHAMONIX MONT BLANC www.compagniedumontblanc.fr Dazzling peaks, high mountain adrenalin, and great family villages; all just an easy drive from Geneva. And with MONT BLANC Unlimited you have the most incredible ski pass in the region – it’s your ticket to freedom!

LATEST: Buy online (or recharge your existing pass) and beat the queues – plus there’s a fantastic 40% early season discount! With a MONT BLANC Unlimited pass you gain fast access-all- areas to the entire Evasion Mont-Blanc region. Skiers, snowboarders and freestylers enjoy a winter playground that includes the Chamonix Valley, Mégeve, Les Houches, St Gervais and Les Contamines. It will even take you across the border to Verbier in Switzerland and the Italian resort of Courmayeur! From two days to a season – it’s all just one click away. Choose from MONT BLANC Unlimited, (with great extras in Chamonix - swimming pool, luge, cinema, public transport), Chamonix Le Pass (Chamonix, Argentiere, le Tour and Vallorcine) and the super-smart Chamonix RapidCard, which offers an easy pay-as- you-ski solution. And buying online gets you ahead of the rest! Whether it’s an incredible day trip or a thrilling weekend, Chamonix has a high-mountain spirit and more than 300km of runs. But it’s also great for families. Try sunny Brévant-Flègére, all-ability Balme (Le Tour/Vallorcine), the spectacular Grands Montets or child-friendly Les Houches – St Gervais. All with great Mont Blanc views and efficient ski lifts. This winter Les Houches hosts a Treasure Hunt for little ones, plus Ski Camp with toboggan run and snow tubing!

Looking for a challenge? Book a mountain guide for breath-taking ski touring or tackle the memorable 21km Vallée Blanche. This exhilarating advanced route starts at the Aiguille du Midi cable car; Europe’s highest at 3,842m. Meanwhile, freestylers look to Brévant, the Freeride Zone at Grands Montets and the awesome Chamonix Snowpark (Balme) - 1,000m long and 100m wide!

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OICE MAGAZINE ISSUE 05 - WINTER 2016

Gare de Chamonix Â© Maxime Coquard

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WINTER GUIDE PROMOTION

My Chamonix... Former Canadian national team skier, freeride-pro and the man behind development of the cool Rip’nWud ski brand - KEVAN BEANE knows Chamonix like the back of his hand. Here he shares his favourite high-altitude runs for extreme ski testing, plus the perfect lunch stop.

Voice: How long have you known Chamonix?

Voice: What can non-skiers do in the Chamonix valley?

Voice: How to escape the crowds when Chamonix is busy?

KB: I first came to Chamonix in 1981 with my parents and to race with the Canadian national ski team. Then I moved to Chamonix in 1993 and lived there for 15 years as a pro-rider, High Alpine Guide and ski developer for Salomon and then Scott Europe. This was at the turning point for the freeride ski industry.

KB: For non-skiers there is so much to do. All the cable cars are open to the public to have a high Alpine experience. You can almost touch and feel the altitude! Shopping, bars and restaurants are also good in Chamonix.

KB: The professionals go to the Aiguille du Midi. It’s at 3,800m with the Mont Blanc just above. Once you get through the crowds and get up to the top, you can find great terrain, un-tracked powder and very few people because the terrain is so big and open. But this is not a tip for regular skiers, and anyone thinking of a skiing adventure like this should definitely go with a Guide.

Voice: What’s your favourite Chamonix ski area - and why? KB: The Grand Montets is one of the best spots in Chamonix for snow conditions because of its north facing exposure. It’s also one of the best ski testing grounds because of the varied terrain and the changing snow conditions you can experience from 3,300m -1,200m decent. In fact we developed Rip'nWud skis to ride ‘easy and comfortable’ in these types of demanding areas. Chamonix is extremely valuable for ski testing and designing as there are few places on earth that offer such easy access to high alpine skiing like the Grand Montets.

Voice: And aprés-ski is always a good option. Best bars? KB: The best bars are in the town centre – where the views are spectacular. From MOO you can see the Aiguille du Midi and the Brévent. For a more international and youngrider scene you would go across the street to Chambre Neuf, The Chambre Neuf has been in Chamonix since I can remember – and that’s 30+ years! Voice: Everyone loves a fondue... Where would you recommend? KB: For the best experience always go for a real mountain, home-cooked Haute Savoie menu. A place I love in winter is a wooden chalet restaurant called Le Crémerie du Glacier d'Argentière. The food here is great and access is by foot - 10mins along the river trail on the piste at the bottom of the Grand Montets.

OICE MAGAZINE ISSUE 05 - WINTER 2016/17

TRAVEL NANDAZ

Eat, Drink, Ski... It’s no secret that Nendaz is one of the most popular resorts in the exceptional Valais area. But did you know that it’s just as famous for its food? Traditional mountain dishes, delicious fruit, wine, cheese and meat – the winter sports can wait!

ocal farmers and growers have put Nendaz firmly on the natural food map. Lush high-mountain pastures create perfect conditions for dairy farming – while summer fruit production is legendary! For example, did you know that Nendaz is one of the largest raspberry-growers in Switzerland? Check out local farmers’ markets for trays of artisanal jams and winter preserves, plus slender bottles of sweet, intoxicating fruit liquors...

EAT

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Say cheese – and in Switzerland you think of a creamy fondue lunch on a snowy terrace – or a delicious Appellation d’Origine Protégée Raclette du Valais, with local cheese label Walliser.

Everyone knows that there’s great skiing to be had in Nendaz, including the links with nearby Siviez that have created Super-Nendaz. Access to the beautiful Mont Fort is also easy – with exceptional access for non-skiers also. Thanks to lifts departing from Haute-Nendaz, Honey is another winter treat from the Valais, you can be relaxing on a sunny mountain and Nendaz alone has more than 500 hives. terrace in minutes, with our without skis! Grab Notice a distinct, light flavour? This comes a table at the famous Cabane Mont-Fort for from enticing wild flower meadows and breathtaking views across the Alps - from summer mountain herbs. And finally, to the the rocky Matterhorn to the Mont-Blanc. famous Val d’Hérens cattle. These formidable www.valais.ch black cows have a natural tendency to fight - hence the iconic “Queens of the Queens” competitions. But these are not prize-winning pets; they’re dairy cows and beef cattle. Paperthin, air-dried slices of beef are typical Valais fare, a taste that owes its origins to preserved cuts hanging in an open barn. Look for the Valais IGP brand for beef (and ham). DRINK Talking of liquors, the plump, sun-blushed apricots of Nendaz are nurtured by the growers of the Bienfaits de la Printze, a group that safeguards production standards and authentic recipes. Punchy apricot alcohol is one to seek out, plus liquors and syrups made from local apples, pears, cherries, plums, prunes and strawberries. www.printse.ch Taste and terrain also links with Nendaz wine production. Sun and rainfall levels in the mountains create a special environment for grapes, while location and soil type, add their own particular note. Consequently, Valais wine-makers are encouraged to preserve the unique diversity of their grape varieties. As well as the popular white Fendants, look out for the quality label Sélection Valais and traditional native grapes – Amigne, Arvine, Cornalin, Humagne and Rèze. www.lesvinsduvalais.ch

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WINTER GUIDE PROMOTION

NENDAZ T: +41 27 289 55 89 www.nendaz.ch In the heart of the sunny Valais - with breathtaking views of the Alps - you’ll find versatile Nendaz, the natural home of active winter holidays, relaxing weekends and fantastic family day trips. Nendaz also comes with a snow guarantee! As part of the Four Valleés, one of the largest ski domains in Europe, there’s linked access to 400 km of pistes and 92 ski lifts. And with most runs at over 1,700m – plus artificial snow canons - Nendaz guarantees high quality snow conditions. And when you need a break? Charming mountain restaurants share panoramic terraces. © Florian Bouvet

Plus: perfect access to the Mont Fort. And thanks to a great lift network even non-skier also enjoy this incredible experience, with views from the Matterhorn to the Mont-Blanc! Seven Freeride zones Check out Plan-du-Fou, the Gentianes, Chassoure, Mont-Gelé, Vallon d’Arbi, Col des Mines and Etegyon. Après-ski Party fun or quiet family dining – Cactus and Tchin Tchin are popular, plus the sunny terrace at Hôtel Edelweiss with concerts, happy hour, and Cheers, the après-ski igloo at Hôtel des Etagnes. Nendaz also offers more than 30 great restaurants. Nature without skis

Discover a winter wonderland with 130km of marked winter trails and snowshoe walks – plus ice skating, sledding runs and paragliding. Relaxation and wellness The luxury Spa des Bisses at the Hotel Nendaz 4 Vallées - with indoor and outdoor pools, sauna, hammam, Jacuzzi, treatments and pampering. Family holidays Families get great value at Nendaz – an award-winning Families Welcome resort. Tracouet is ideal for children, with a snow garden and fun equipment to get kids off to a great start. Five ski schools offer high quality teaching and childcare, ski lessons and learn to ski with play - plus a weekly programme of games, arts & crafts, sledging and ice-disco.

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WINTER GUIDE PROMOTION

ALPINE FRENCH SCHOOL: LEARN FRENCH + SKI!

ALPINEMOJO SKI SCHOOL T: +41 (0)77 460 24 20 WWW.alpinemojoskischool.com

T: +33 (0)4 50 79 08 38 www.alpinefrenchschool.com

NEW IN VERBIER. Alpinemojo offers high quality, individually tailored and fun instruction, delivered by experienced instructors with a great knowledge of Verbier, all at a great value-for-money price.

Alpine French School is a language school based in Morzine in the French Alps - only one hour from Geneva – and offering French courses with a difference! Ski or snowboard in the mornings and then study French in the afternoons. Intensive courses, private lessons, GCSE/A-level tuition and family options available.

Why choose Alpinemojo? Because they aim to deliver the best value-for-money and high quality customer service: •

Alpinemojo is a small, passionate, friendly team of customer-focused instructors, who love to ski and teach

Alpine French School has a great location in the centre of Morzine, with bilingual staff members that are happy to answer any questions you may have. Teachers are all native speakers who specialise in fun but effective French learning with plenty of conversation practice! You can also choose accommodation with Alpine French School from a range of options: including the opportunity to meet other students by staying in a high-quality shared apartment or to enjoy some luxury in a 4-star hotel.

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All lessons are tailored to each client’s needs

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All instructors have a great knowledge of Verbier

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Alpinemojo instructors are priced to reflect their individual experience and qualifications

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And because every client matters!

Visit the Alpine French School website or call to find out more!

Their rates are competitively priced! Choose from different prices based on the experience and qualifications of each instructor.

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Ski or snowboard in the mornings and then study French in the afternoons.

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Intensive courses, private lessons, GCSE/A-level tuition and family options available.

OFFER: Private lessons start from CHF230* (half-day) & CHF450* (full-day). *Low season. PLUS: Check out the Alpinemojo loyalty card – book 4 full-day lessons and your 5th lesson is free! Check their website or call for more details.

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WINTER GUIDE PROMOTION

PREMIER ALPINE CENTRE – WE ORGANISE, YOU ENJOY... T: +41 (0)27 565 79 97 www.premieralpinecentre.com From finding that perfect chalet to fun ski lessons in English – the unique ‘One Stop Shop’ care and support from Premier Alpine Centre ensures your winter break is a run-away success. Young, dynamic and professional, the team comprises fully qualified ski teachers and mountain guides – each with a passion for winter sports. Check out the Premier Alpine Centre ski school for tailor-made private and group lessons in English (with max. six students guaranteed). Book 15hrs and pay just CHF19.70/hour! They also have exclusive holidays, corporate team building, snowshoeing – plus ski safari, heli-skiing in Zermatt, St-Moritz or Courchevel. NEW: Great family deals on the latest rental equipment. Earlybirds enjoy 15% off and kids up to six are free. Seven to 13s get 50% off! (with two adults renting). Novice or advanced, the experts at Premier Alpine Centre are committed to helping you reach your full potential in a safe and competent coaching environment. Plus: private transfers to airports – including a heli-taxi! Based in the heart of Nendaz, the friendly team at Premier Alpine Centre has great contacts for chalet rentals and apartments. And their colourful sports shop is full of treasures. New for 2017: trendy bags from German designer aunts & uncles. Visiting for a few days or the season? Maximise your time with Premier Alpine Centre.

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How can I take the hassle out of a ski trip? Let Premier Alpine Centre do all the hard work. Accommodation, equipment, passes – all waiting for you!

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I’m looking to rent a cool ski apartment. Any ideas? Yes, Premier Alpine Centre has a great ‘little black book’ for the perfect rental; weekend or season!

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My family loves skiing but we’re at different levels. Help! No problem, beginners, intermediates and experts all get tailor-made coaching – or ski together with a guide.

WINTER GUIDE PROMOTION

NENDAZ 4 VALLÉES HOTEL & SPA Chemin des Cibles 17, 1997 Haute-Nendaz T +41 (0) 27 611 11 11 www.hotelnendaz4vallees.ch Floating in a beautiful, warm outdoor infinity pool looking up at the crystal-clear mountains and watching tiny snowflakes settle on the picture-perfect village of Nendaz – what could be better at the end of a challenging day on the slopes? With an exceptional location in the heart of Haute-Nendaz and offering a unique indoor-outdoor luxury Spa experience, the four-star Nendaz 4 Vallées Hotel & Spa des Bisses is a contemporary hotel with a traditional approach to excellence. With 62 rooms and eight apartments (perfect for family trips!) this is chalet-style meets contemporary design. Two magnificent suites offer incredible views and ambiance, plus private saunas. But the USP of the 4 Vallées Hotel is the exceptional Spa des Bisses. This 2,200m sq designer space is dedicated to calm and wellbeing, with a spectacular panorama. The super-warm swimout pool offers Alpine vistas as you bathe - and it’s open for families too. Children swim with their parents or enjoy a paddling pool and toys. Ready to relax your ski muscles? Try a tempting massage, revitalising therapy or reserve an exclusive private spa! These come complete with sauna, hammam, Jacuzzi, relaxation area and massage treatments. Of course dining at the 4 Vallées is always an event. Try the charming Le Clos des Cimes modern brasserie, or the relaxed Carnotzet l’Aigle with classic Valais dishes. A drink at the Piano bar? There’s delicious tapas on offer - while the children enjoy the Marmot play area plus video and games room! The Nendaz 4 Vallées Hotel is also the ideal conference/private venue, with two well-equipped modular meeting rooms, each measuring 90m sq., and the friendly bar; serving local wines or cocktails by the fireside or on the sunny terrace. •

What’s on the Marmot menu? Great child- friendly choices for relaxed family dining...

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Do kids have Spa access? Yes, mini-Spa and pool until 6pm - with their parents.

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Note to families: Children love the Marmot play area and video/games room.

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PROMOTION

WINTER GUIDE PROMOTION

ANTI-AGING & BEAUTY CARE Centre de Soins Esthétiques Ch. des Cibles, Haute-Nendaz T: +41 27 565 74 42 www.antiage-minceur-nendaz.ch

Fresh mountain air and a pristine environment - where better to relax and restore your face and body with effective, non-invasive treatments? Without the use of injections or surgery, the experts at Centre de Soins Esthétiques in Haute-Nendaz have at their fingertips the best pain-free solutions for all your skin-aging concerns. From reduction of wrinkles and lines, to improving scars and marks left by acne, the Centre has the latest techniques for discreet and immediate results. Permanent hair removal is also available, with a 100% effective outcome. In fact you’ll be amazed by the benefits of all treatments, including those for the body. The appearance of cellulite is reduced while lifting and toning boosts the silhouette. Plus - Centre de Soins Esthétiques takes a highly personalised approach to your wellbeing, offering nutrition, care and treatment that will leave you feeling slimmer and revitalised. Plus – stockist of Princess Skincare range.

Snow Report

Want to know where to go for the best snow condition? Looking for the latest updates on events and weather? Then listen to the experts!

The WRS Snow Report will keep you up to date on conditions in all your favourite mountain resorts. And you’ll hear some great ideas for new places to try and exciting events. Listen in for the morning Snow Report! PLUS... Ski for Free with WRS. The great WRS Ski Pass giveaway starts NOW! Tune in for the Snow Report and WIN free Ski Passes to all your favourite resorts...

OICE MAGAZINE ISSUE 05 - WINTER 2016/17

COMPETITION NENDAZ

WIN TWO

Wake Up and Win More! WIN a rejuvenating beauty care treatment worth CHF500 from the experts at the Centre de Soins Esthétiques in Haut Nendaz.* A 100% natural, luxury facial with micro-jet technology will leave your skin radiant and revitalised. And where better to relax and be pampered then in the fresh air of the Valais! www.antiage-minceur-nendaz.ch

Just when you thought winter couldn’t get any better... More fantastic prizes worth thousands are only a click away! You could be skiing for FREE with the experts, basking in five star chalet-chic luxury, star gazing from a Spa pool or relaxing with a radiant beauty treatment.

Listen to WRS in the mornings for competition updates and then go to worldradio.ch to enter. WIN a fantastic all-inclusive package to discover beautiful Nendaz and Les 4 Vallées with Premier Alpine Centre – worth more than CHF2,000!* An experienced Englishspeaking guide will share the natural beauty of the region, or help you find your inner ski champion! Choose from expert tips and coaching, or a Premier Alpine Centre crosscountry or snow-show adventure. Prize includes FREE tuition or guiding, FREE lift passes and FREE equipment hire! www.premieralpinecentre.com

WIN two wonderful nights – plus breakfast and dinner - at the stylish Hotel Nendaz 4 Vallées & Spa – worth CHF1,200!* The ultimate destination for charm and relaxation, Hotel Nendaz 4 Vallées & Spa is offering a Superior designer room, fabulous breakfasts in the panoramic dining room, dinner in gourmet restaurant Le Clos des Cimes PLUS FREE access to the incredible Spa des Bisses. Swim out under the stars in luxury super-warm pool or enjoy saunas, steam baths, flotation pool, Jacuzzi, hamman or even a dip in the invigorating ice grotto! www.hotelnendaz4vallees.ch

*Hotel prizes are for two people

OICE MAGAZINE ISSUE 05 - WINTER 2016/17 conditions for dates and times may apply.

TRAVEL VILLARS

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An established mountain resort with a fascinating back-story, Villars-Gryon prides itself on tradition.

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WIN two fabulous nights at the chalet-chic fivestar Chalet RoyAlp Hôtel & Spa in Villars, worth CHF900!* Enjoy panoramic views from your charming room, gourmet breakfasts by Michelinstarred chef Alain Montigny, then indulge at the award-winning luxury Spa by RoyAlp! With contemporary design (including private Spa and Duo Suite), sauna, jacuzzi and hammam, fitness centre and elegant pool – you’ll find it hard to leave. And that’s not all – there’s a cosy aprèsSpa fire place. Chalet RoyAlp Hotel & Spa - only 1h30 from Geneva but a world apart. www.royalp.ch For how to win this fabulous WRS prize - see Wake Up and Win More p.53. *Prize for two people – conditions may apply.

ander through the linked mountain villages of Villars-Gryon and Les Diablerets and it’s not hard to imagine the old days of winter sports in these family resorts. Locals and internationals alike enjoy Villars (full name Villars-sur-Ollon), which established its pedigree as a ski resort more than a hundred years. Perhaps this is why the region prides itself on quality – this sort of reputation doesn’t happen over night! Skiing in Villars-Gryon began with the construction of the Bretaye train link in 1913. But it was not the downhill skiing that we know now. There were no pistes as such and no ski lifts! All that changed in 1936 with the first ski lift opening at Chaux Ronde – causing quite a sensation. Would-be skiers were obliged to fasten themselves onto the lift with a large leather belt. What could possibly go wrong? However, later that same year the prestigious Orient Express train stopped in nearby Aigle for a special Giant Slalom event at Bretaye. This brought the international winter sports crowd and Villars was on the ski map! The next adventure? A new sledge-style ski lift that could pull 12 people to the top of the slopes in relative ‘comfort’.

Resorts of Europe in 1938. Swiss ski clubs came to practice and local champions developed their skills. Pre-war Villars was the place to be. Outside edge - Fancy a change from skiing? Sheltered from strong winds, Villars-Gryon is the perfect place to try paragliding. Start with a tandem experience or discovery day then steel your nerves for a solo flight. But as the thermals lift and the slopes disappear - what an amazing panorama of the Dents du Midi, Geneva and the Mont Blanc! Shoot out - Biathlon combines cross-country skiing, snow-shoeing and running - with rifle shooting! What’s not to like? Have a go with 10m target practice and a rifle with infrared sights. There’s no age restriction but you must be over 1m40. Beginner sessions every Tuesday or private lessons daily.

Today the dynamic side to Villars-Gryon continues – with world class skiing on 125km of trails and exhilarating off-piste for freeriders and boarders. But the deal-breaker for many families? Villars-Gryon gets more than its fair share of sunshine, thanks to natural south-facing slopes. This means family-friendly temperatures at 1,300m, with play areas and cafés providing welcome breaks from the action.

From bobble hat to ski boots - Everything’s included in The One Day Snow Experience. Villars-Gryon has come up with a fun idea for beginners. All you do is turn up! Taking just four hours from start to finish, (including collecting skis, boots and clothing, plus a twohour individual or small, group lesson), this convenient taster session will have you sliding back for more.

Suddenly skiing was taking off. Records in Villars say that instructors would coach up to 50 people at a time - with the lesson at an end by the time the final skier had strapped on his www.villars-diablerets.ch or her skis! Going from strength to strength, Villars was named one of the prime Winter

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WINTER GUIDE PROMOTION

VILLARS-GRYON & LES DIABLERETS www. villars-diablerets.ch www.tele-villars-gryon.ch There’s a cool vibe to the resorts of Villars-Gryon & Les Diablerets - plus hot deals on ski passes. Choose the closest Alpine slopes to Geneva and Lausanne, ski immaculate pistes and skip the traffic jams! With 180 canons guaranteeing snow on 125km of runs linking three resorts and a glacier, skiing down to the village at the end of the day is assured! Free beginner slopes also make learning fun - plus Gryon has a new ‘rolling carpet’ easy lift. Offers: Ski for CHF 20 a day! Stay one night in a hotel, apartment or chalet and your ski pass is just CHF20. Get this fantastic value offer for every night you stay – from January 9 to February 3 and from March 6 to April 17. See website for details. Free for Kids: Under 9s ski for free and children sharing a hotel room with parents stay for free! Plus great family offers on all activities across the resorts. Online Offers: Go online for week-day ski-pass reductions of up to 30% - and 15% at weekends (plus pay-as-you-ski savings). Access: The Villars – Les Diablerets link now takes half the time. Good news for skiers! Two brand new high-speed chair lifts open this season, creating a faster link between the two ski areas; giving skiers more time on the snow. Fatbike: Get on your bike in Villars Bretaye. Looking for a different activity on the slopes? Try the new Villars Fatbike piste, linking the summit of the ski area to the village, for an exhilarating 600m of downhill drop and 4,000m of snowy riding! Check out weekly Fatbike & fondue evenings, with a guided moonlight descent. Unforgettable for all the family! Movie: Stars in your eyes? Relive your daring ski or boarder exploits the minute you get home with a tailor-made film shot by a snow drone. Slalom piste or skicross make for exciting footage. Or create a lasting memory of the children on their skis at the kindergarten or snow parc.

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WINTER GUIDE PROMOTION

SWISS SKI SCHOOL – VILLARS www.ess-villars.ch T:+41(0)24 495 22 10 The Swiss Ski School in Villars was founded in 1932 – so it’s fair to say they have some teaching experience! Whether you’re looking for lessons for children or an adult beginner, the team at Villars are highly-professional English-speakers who know the right way to help. Just in need of a few extra skills? The ESS Villars will boost confidence and perfect your technique. In fact, raising self-assurance on the snow is one of the most important aspects of ski teaching. Check out attractively-priced group or private lessons in skiing, snowboarding, snow shoeing, telemark and cross-country skiing. Experienced skiers and spirited teens might want to try freeride/freestyle or race coaching! For children it’s all about staying warm and safe while have fun. With friendly teachers and two toy-filled Snow Gardens, kids at Villars love to play and learn. Freeride Week Villars Swiss Ski School and Freeride World Tour Club (FWT) have teamed up to offer a unique winter programme for 12 to 18 year olds! Choose from a whole range of fun activities and technical instruction including Freeride, Freestyle, racing & safety, all organised by our mountain professionals. Race Training If you have reached the Red Star lever, there’s a proper race training course for you. Ski with race trainers for great coaching. The programme will focus on technique, giant slalom, parallel slalom, all-terrain skiing and video analysis, followed by ski race and Swiss SnowLeague evaluation. “Currently we have some 280 instructors who adapt their teaching methods every year in order to keep up with developments in ski technology. Our main aim is for you to have fun and feel safe. The Red Legend, join us! “

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WINTER GUIDE PROMOTION

Jean-Baptiste Bieuville © Jean-Baptiste Bieuville

MORZINE www.morzine-avoriaz.com What’s the secret of a great day out in Morzine? Quality time with family or friends in one of the largest international ski areas in the world? Or epic landscapes, dynamic events and an authentic mountain village? Every visitor to Morzine has a unique experience, whether you ski, snowboard or simply relax in the sunshine.

Keeping it real Morzine prides itself on a genuine Alpine character, with traditional restaurants and low-rise chalets nestled in exceptional countryside only 75km from Geneva. And as part of the impressive Portes du Soleil it offers 600km of runs (across France and Switzerland), 196 ski lifts and 287 pistes. Looking for adventure? Check out 30 snowparks, boarder–cross and skicross! Fun on the flat Morzine ski beginners learn fast with a brand new 200m canopycovered magic carpet. Still not sure? The luxury spa, indoor ice skating and aquatic centre make great alternatives. Or free the mind with Sunday Wellness and Ski Yoga? Ten yoga poses to perform by the piste – plus spa session. See website for dates/ times.

EVENTS •

Morzine-Avoriaz Winter Start: December 9 - 11 2016

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Féeries du Neige: December 17 - 31

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Morzine Loves Carnival: February 7 – 28 2017

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Morzine Loves Women: March 6-10 2017 Special events and offers

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Morzine hosts Rock The Pistes; Morzine/Les Gets: March 24 Rock the Pistes 7th edition - Portes du Soleil: March 19 – 25 2017 75 concerts: 25,000 festival goers: DJs and club sounds.

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64th EuropeanAlpine Border Customs Championships March 20-24 2017 Morzine hosts top Nordic and Alpineracers from all over Europe

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Morzine Loves Children: April 1 – 7 2017 Fun activities and family offers

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Race of Champions: April 9 2017 Open event for juniors aged eight to 17

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Free thinking Feeling bold? The Free Ski Academy from the team at Easy2Ride Ski & Snowboard (endorsed by champion Xavier Bertoni) will have you Freeskiing in no time - thanks to a training air bag! Or pick up advanced rider tips from the experts. New: Morzine’s famous Stash Zone extends to SuperMorzine. Famile Plus Daycare at l’Outa is perfect for little ones (Sun - Fri), while older kids love Chemin des Zouzous – a 2km natural slope with life-like forest friends at every turn. Nyon Snowpark A fun snowpark reserved for children and beginners. The modules are smaller and include rails, jumps and banked corners to allow for practice in complete safety. Boarder Penguins A penguin-themed zone on the ski domain? What’s not to like – and it’s the symbol of Morzine sports! Try out banked corners, slalom, a tunnel and a few whoops on the ice floe.

WINTER GUIDE PROMOTION

LES PORTES DU SOLEIL T: +33 (0)4 50 73 32 54 www.portesdusoleil.com T: +41 (0)24 479 05 50 www.ski-and-bike.ch www.rockthepistes.com The largest international ski area in the world! No Limits in the Portes du Soleil! © Jean-Baptiste Bieuville

Skiing the Portes du Soleil is a panoramic, no-holds-barred experience in an idyllic natural setting nestled between the Mont Blanc in France and the Dents du Midi mountain range in Switzerland. Here, no fewer than 12 ski resorts and ten ski lift companies have joined forces to create an unparalleled network of lifts that spans the French-Swiss border, making this the largest international winter sports area in the world. In the Portes du Soleil, skiers looking for a challenge can test their grit on the infamous Swiss Wall, ranked as one of the world’s steepest ski slopes, or on the Tovassière Run, a long, exposed ski slope that takes you miles from the comfort of the nearest ski lift. If you prefer to strut your stuff a little closer to home, the Portes du Soleil have that covered too, with 30 snowparks, ski-cross and boarder-cross parks throughout the ski area.

Families, beginners and skiers who prefer to take life easy can choose from an infinite variety of ski runs, including some 119 gentle blue runs and 34 intermediate greens. With an impressive array of ski schools and some 1,300 ski instructors and guides on hand, this is the perfect place to take a few lessons and improve your technique. Most ski schools and resorts offer kid-specific lessons and designated ski areas for the littlest guests. Whether you’re looking for an easy day on the slopes or a full-on adrenalin-rush, the Portes du Soleil offers something for everyone, with unparalleled snow conditions from December to April to boot! This March, the Portes du Soleil will be hosting the 7th annual open-air Rock the Pistes festival, with a fabulous line-up of international bands and musicians in concert right on the ski slopes!

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WINTER GUIDE PROMOTION

ALPINE LIFESTYLE PARTNERS www.alplifestyle.com www.miggins.ch The concept of property investment combined with rental and ‘super concierge' services has become the preferred choice for many looking to invest in the Swiss Alps yet retain the lifestyle element of their asset. Owners have the freedom of use of their real estate; the benefit of concierge services plus a rental income from an excellent Swiss and international clientele. It’s the perfect combination - leaving the investor/owner at leisure to benefit from all aspects of a Swiss Alpine investment. Situated in the picturesque mountain village of Champéry, Portes du Soleil, The Lodge Champéry by Mrs Miggins is an awardwinning example of this type of investment. One of a number of exclusive developments constructed or under development by Alpine Lifestyle Partners in Les Portes du Soleil, les 4 Vallées and Val d’Anniviers, The Lodge recently won "Luxury Travel Guide Award for Service Excellence" with The Luxury Travel Guide. Purchasing a second home or investment property direct from the developer is also an outstanding opportunity – and Alpine Lifestyle Partners offers unique attention to detail and comfort. Concerned about property management? The efficient and highquality services by the team at Mrs Miggins will keep life simple, leaving you more time to relax and enjoy the location. Alpine Lifestyle Partners also provides rental programmes to show return on investment and are happy to guide you through the entire purchase process. Live the Alpine Lifestyle experience! The Lodge Champéry by Mrs Miggins The Lodge Champéry by Mrs Miggins is perfectly located, with breath-taking views, immediate access to sports facilities including indoor and outdoor pools, ice rink, curling and multisport facilities - and of course the incredible skiing of Les Portes du Soleil. These luxury vacation apartments offer a concierge service to rival that of the top hotels in Switzerland. Conception by Alpine Lifestyle Partners - management by Mrs Miggins Luxury Chalet Services - specialists in creating a rich and unique experience.

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ANZÈRE www.anzere.ch Looking for a great escape that’s all about sunshine on high sunny plains and a quiet, natural vibe? Fancy gliding along wide, open boulevards or testing your nerve with a mogul run or snowriding extreme? Whatever your choice, the beautiful unspoiled slopes of Anzère are certainly within easy reach! Just 1hr 30 from Lausanne and 20 minutes from Sion, this easy-access resort is a family favourite with great options at all levels. With a varied ski domain of 52km (plus off-piste options) and a great selection of high-altitude cafés and restaurants, you can spend the whole day on the snow without ever re-tracing your path. The high slopes of Anzère are nestled between two valleys and you’re welcome to ski down to Les Rousses, a lovely treelined route that brings you up-close with nature. There’s also a fantastic 4km sledding option close to the pistes – which means non-skiers are never far from the action. And for evenings and rest days the free ice skating rink in the centre of Anzère village makes for a great alternative. Looking to improve your technique or help children learn to ski? Anzère’s family friendly ski schools, both ESS and private, know how to teach with fun and patience. And that’s a technique that works for adults too! Finally, at the end of a long day, check out the Anzère Spa & Wellness. This touch of luxury is family-friendly and affordable offering a special pool area for children and babies, plus a separate zone for adults. Check out beauty treatments and relaxing massages – the perfect start to your après ski agenda. Plans for dinner? In Anzère try local Valais specialities at traditional chalet-style restaurants or dine-out in style at more contemporary locations. ANZÈRE EVENTS

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Junior Skicross: Flypark du Tsalan January 22 2017

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Festi’Neige: January 28 2017

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Ayent-Anzère Car Hill Race: February 4 – 11 2017

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Snowcross Swiss Championship: Place du village - February 11 2017

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TACKERS Snow Boot-camp: March 11 2017

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Ski & Golf: April 1 – 2 2017

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PROMOTION

LE TRAIN DU FROMAGE www.mob.ch A scenic 1st Class Panoramic train journey and a fascinating insight into the country life of Switzerland... Can you think of a better outing with friends or family? The famous Train du Fromage of the Montreux Oberland Bernois (MOB) railway sets off from Montreux or Zweisimmen, taking you on a picturesque journey to Château d’Oex in the snow-capped region of Pays d’Enhaut. While you enjoy the vista, there’s a drinks service and typical snacks - in preparation for the first stop. On arrival, it’s off to restaurant Le Chalet for a demonstration of artisanal cheese-making. Children love this interactive activity, with plenty of opportunities for tasting! Then, of course, it’s time for a creamy fondue lunch. The afternoon includes free entry to the Musée du Vieux Pays, for interesting exhibits and tools illustrating the farming life of past residents. There’s also a 10% discount on entry to l’Espace Ballon. Return with any MOB train – simply choose from the daily timetable. Plus: Check out special Friday discount prices Plus: Join the Train du Fromage at Zweisimmen and enjoy all the charms of 1st Class travel in an elegant Belle Époque train! Departure Montreux or Zweisimmen

WINTER GUIDE PROMOTION

MONTS JURA www.monts-jura.com Downhill skiing, snowboarding, world-class cross-country trails and some of the prettiest snow-shoeing in the region, all with incredible views of the Mont Blanc, the Salève and the Geneva lakeshore. In fact Monts Jura is a winter wonderland for families that could not be closer!

While the Monts Jura villages of La Faucille and Crozet are wellknown for easy access to a range of ski options – plus ample parking - it’s the amazing backdrop of the Mont Blanc and surrounding peaks that creates a real head-turning moment. Family days out at Crozet are memorable, at every level of skill and experience. In fact the Crozet-Lélex ski area offers 30km of pistes, with 15 lifts and two fast cable cars. Alternatively, la Faucille means fun sledging and beginner slopes, giving nonskiers great choices for snowshoeing or simply relaxing on a sunny terrace. It’s also just a short drive to La Vattay, one of France’s leading cross-country centres. Discover 120km of wellmarked trails glistening and gleaming through the trees in the winter sun - it’s a surprising and tranquil world! Equipment hire and cross-country guiding and/or lessons available. The picturesque Jura villages of Lélex and Mijoux are also Monts Jura resorts offering family-friendly winter sports. For example, did you know that Lélex is at the heart of the protected Natural Regional Park of the Haut Jura? Pistes and tracks here are safe and well-groomed, with convenient cafés and restaurants just when you need them! Check out the fast Valmijoux chairlift and a host of accommodation in both Lélex and Mijoux – stress-free options for a weekend break. Check website for attractive early-bird deals on season passes. Plus: speed up your ski day by purchasing day passes online. EVENTS French Ski-Alpine Championships at Monts Jura: 25 - 27 March 2017. Can you ski Monts Jura without a stop? Yes, for a great day out start at Col de la Faucille and follow 12 linked pistes, with incredible views at every turn.

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PROPERTY

Livi n the d g ream

Picture this: your own place in the mountains. Somewhere to escape to every weekend, that perfect pied à terre... with every home comfort but après-ski glamour close at hand. PROMOTION

CHALET APARTMENT RENTALS & SALES www.chaletapartmentrentals.com www.chaletapartmentsales.com

Great early snow is signalling another fantastic winter season in Verbier! Come to explore the 400 kilometres of piste in Switzerland’s biggest ski area and the vibrant and varied aprèsski! Plenty of activities and entertainment for non-skiers too! Chalet Apartment Rentals offers you an excellent choice of comfortable and convenient accommodation in Verbier and the neighbouring villages, from budget studios to luxury chalets and apartments. Their flexible arrangements allow you to stay from just a few nights to a whole winter or more! Chalet Apartment Rentals also have a great range of property for sale in the area! The native English-speaking team will be delighted to help you!

Call Tom Johnson on T:+41(0)77 417 1969 for rentals John Bristow on T:+41(0)76 404 3483 for property sales.

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...

Do your thinking...What sort of area do you prefer? Will it work for family and friends? Intending to head up most weekends or only in the school holidays? And what‘s the typical winter snow cover you can expect?

lthough it definitely ranks as a firstworld problem, choosing a holiday home in the mountains can be a dilemma. Brand new development with excellent ski-in, ski-out access? Or traditional wooden chalet with charm to spare? In the

heart of the village close to restaurants and BUILDING BLOCKS... night-life or stand alone at the end of a snowy Ask around. Talk to the locals, including path? And of course the BIG issue in this • the tourist office and shopkeepers. Are region - which country? With fantastic options there any further developments or in Switzerland, France and Italy, there really investments planned that could impact are some mountains to climb... on the property or the area that you‘re looking at? •

•

Consider the options for sports, outdoor activities and culture – especially with children. Is it only skiing – what about a cinema, swimming pool, Spa, ice skating, mountain biking or tennis? Year-round activities will boost the re-sale value. Understand all the legal and taxation aspects of your purchase; including the implications for inheritance, capital gains etc. These vary greatly from country to country. Choose a lawyer who specialises in property in the country where you are buying, as procedures vary greatly. The lawyer who helped you to buy your family home is not necessarily an expert on buying abroad. Switzerland has right-to-buy issues which vary from Canton to Canton. Depending on your permis, there are rules and restrictions surrounding residency and rights to investment in property. Check all these with a legal expert. Swiss mortgage rates are low – and Swiss banks usually lend up to 80% of market value. However, funding the deposit with the release of cash from your company or private pension – the so-called third pillar – only applies to the purchase of a primary residence. Plus – non-Swiss pensions are generally not eligible under this provision. Do you know enough about the property laws in the country you’re looking at? A specialist agency for foreign buyers is probably the safest option. Expect guidance on legal issues and taxation, plus a recommended local lawyer.

In recent times, Switzerland has been seen as a safe haven for investors, with high security, stability and an excellent quality of construction which is governed by strict building regulations. With the current low interest rates, it is a good time to invest in the mountain resorts Alpine Lifestyle Partners OICE MAGAZINE ISSUE 05 - WINTER 2016/17

KIDS IN MIND

What’s in a psychological diagnosis for children and :) :/ :) :( :/ :( :) adolescents? By Rebecca Weber

hen parents first contact a specialist in child development, usually they have been concerned for some time and have developed a reasoning or understanding of their child’s behaviour. Is my moody teen depressed? Does my explosive child suffer from attention deficit and hyperactivity disorder? Is my five year old actually school-phobic? Or does my picky adolescent have an eating disorder? Such questions bring us into a larger domain of diagnosis: how do we know when a child or adolescent fits a specific diagnosis? And whether they do or don’t, what is the effect on their development?

treatment and healthcare pivot. They can structure the words that clinicians use to understand behaviour and emotions, they can give or take away potential meaning from parents observing their own children, indicate treatment, and even provide or deny access to healthcare.

Parents negotiating their child’s development, may find relief when a diagnostic description resonates with their experience. They may feel that, finally, they will be able to pursue appropriate treatment to help their child get back on a healthy developmental path. While a diagnosis can confirm a parent’s intuition, it can simultaneously create a fear of stigmatization that their child may Officially, psychological diagnoses refer to a permanently belong to a certain description of a specific series of symptoms developmental category and potentially that have been present and/or absent for a aggravate complex feelings. specific amount of time. Such classifications can only be carried out by a trained clinician Once a diagnosis is pronounced, will the such as a psychologist or psychiatrist. treatment directly address the symptoms However, each diagnostic description is itself and will the diagnosis then be removed? In rooted in larger contextual questions – which the absence of aggravating symptoms, diagnostic manual is used in which country? perhaps will we never understand why those Which diagnoses are recognized by the symptoms arose in the first place? health insurance company? Do all clinicians speak the same diagnostic language used to Children vary immensely and, to add to the whirlwind, they grow and change so understand human behaviour? dynamically compared with adults. Capturing Diagnoses can appear then as the axes both the underlying depth as well as the around which meaning, understanding, symptomatic surface of emotional, cognitive

and social capacities, may take the shape of collaboration between parents, school, and various clinicians. For example, psychiatric medication may treat symptoms while psychotherapy will attempt to address the underlying dynamics. Ultimately, the experiences of suffering, seeking help, receiving a diagnosis and treatment will be as singular as each child. In addition to alleviating symptoms, parents and clinicians strive to promote and sustain child and adolescent emotional and behavioural health.

DISCLAIMER Please note: any psychological advice or information provided in the Kids in Mind column in Voice Magazine is general information and should not be used to evaluate, diagnose or treat any specific concerns. Always check with your medical care provider if you have questions about your own children. Voice Magazine and/or Dr. Weber are not responsible or liable, directly or indirectly, for any damage resulting from the use of information contained in, or implied by the article published here.

KIDS IN MIND WITH REBECCA WEBER Rebecca Weber, PhD, is a Clinical Psychologist specialised in Child and Adolescent psychotherapy. She works in private practice in Ferney-Voltaire and with the University of Geneva. Originally from California, her research and clinical work focus on gender, migrant families and school violence.For more information please visit www.rebeccaweber.net. Kids in Mind is sponsored by the British School of Geneva. Listen to Kids in Mind on WRS. See schedule on page 94.

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PROMOTION

HEC LAUSANNE – EXECUTIVE MBA www.hec.unil.ch/executivemba Ranked and accredited as a world-leading Executive MBA programme - and with a proven track record in professional development - the renowned EMBA at HEC Lausanne, the Faculty of Business and Economics of the University of Lausanne, creates a unique personal focus, generating ‘stand-out’ value for its graduates. “Our Executive MBA offers a unique opportunity to take time out from your business life to reframe your focus and review your aims. Many of the participants are transformed professionally and personally. They are energised with a fresh vision and new possibilities, along with being equipped with the skills to fulfil their highest potential.” - Jeffrey S Petty, Academic Director The personal and professional development element of the HEC EMBA curriculum is specially designed and fully integrated into the programme to enhance the participants’ interpersonal aptitudes through personal and career transition coaching, mindfulness workshops and effective management skills modules. “We are fortunate to have a dedicated section focusing on soft skills as part of the programme. They have really helped me reflect on my values and priorities. The process of self-awareness is not always easy, but I clearly see the benefits and how it can help me in my professional and private life. I acquired techniques and takeaways that I use to enhance my communication and relations with others.” - Flavia Virey, Class of 2016 Respected for its quality, HEC Lausanne leverages an individual personal development blended with evidence-based academic leadership and strategic management, plus dialogue with toplevel practitioners. The 15-month EMBA programme offers two dynamic focus areas: • •

Management & Corporate Finance Healthcare Management

Taught in English, classes are held on Fridays and Saturdays every second week. Successful candidates must have a university degree, a minimum of five to seven years of professional experience and a strong motivation to learn and share their experience. "The HEC programme allows you to create a positive impact on your environment. It provides not only a powerful set of tools to improve the way you work and interact with your colleagues but it also sharpens your internal compass so you can build a relevant path and make key decisions for yourself." - Alexandre Rio, Class of 2016

EDUCATION

Raising the bar Could an Executive MBA refocus your professional profile? With some 90+ business schools across Switzerland maybe it’s time to benchmark your management skills?

s an EMBA a measurable asset? Are you better to forge ahead with your career or develop your qualifications and business education? In a best-case scenario an executive course will build your profile, challenge existing skills, raise your salary and extend your professional network. So what are you waiting for? First identify the right programme for the right outcomes. Full - or part-time Master of Business Administration (MBA) or Executive MBA (EMBA)? Blended or modular MBA or DBA (Doctorate in Business Administration)? Generally an EMBA is a two-year part-time course, which can be cost-efficient for working professionals. Candidates are generally senior managers aged 35+, with a minimum of five years experience. An EMBA is seen as a route to career progression, rather than a way to change direction. On the other hand, younger managers choose an MBA as a platform for professional growth or a career shift. In theory a DBA is as high as you can go, correctly balanced with professional practice. Swiss options are generally high quality and convenient – with renowned local and international business schools/universities offering tuition in English; partnerships in the UK and US; and a raft of accredited courses. The new market for specialist career development is also a key area, with industryspecific programmes and focussed MBAs. Prefer your learning online? Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCS) can be an option if you prefer not to break from your desk – but they won’t necessarily build your network - as successfully as attending a course. The University of Geneva (www.unige.ch) offers an interesting compressed schedule for its Executive MBA degree, with two unique pathways - an International Organisations MBA (IOMBA) and an Executive MBA (EMBA). Both are multidisciplinary, with a focus on quality, internationalism and partnerships. UNIGE’s EMBA track is structured to provide leadership training through active participation and a corporate executive philosophy. It offers a highly respected general management education without career interruption and teaches participants to build foundational skills and confidence to expand capacity to lead and face cross-functional challenges. Candidates

University IFM - Institute of Finance and Management (www.universiteifm.com). an independent option which could help you network in Switzerland. This fully accredited centre prides itself on a global perspective across a broad range of problem-solving challenges, from manufacturing and finance to creative entrepreneurship. The outcome is a In addition, second-year candidates can pursue highly focussed Swiss business education the following options in English: Corporate with practical links to local and international Social Responsibility, International companies. Founded in 1971, IFM recently Management, Modern Management for Nonestablished a progressive new 14-month partProfit Organisations and Strategic Marketing. time MBA, with no reduction in contact hours or content. This effectively cuts the selfInternational University in Geneva financing time for candidates, speeding up (www.iun.ch) offers a DBA and a DPA (Doctorate in Public return on investment. Although most courses Administration), in partnership with the UK’s are taught in English, there’s a bi-lingual section Plymouth Graduate School of Management. and IFM is accredited by the IACBE, a leader in Students continue in full-time employment and US business education. most workshops are held in Geneva at IMD - International Institute for Management weekends. Profile? Young academics, Development, Lausanne experienced managers, consultants and (www.imd.org) entrepreneurs. The scope for the doctorate has a host of top global rankings. Situated in thesis is also exceptionally wide – with IUG and Lausanne offers a prestige reputation and a Plymouth University pledging expert support student body of 40 different nationalities. and guidance - whatever the focus. Perhaps one of the most well-known schools worldwide, it has helped establish Switzerland At HEC Lausanne as a centre of excellence in executive education (www.hec.unil.ch/executivemba) ranked and accredited as a world-leading and its renowned MBAs are led by top Executive MBA programme in professional practitioners and academics. IMD is also development, the Faculty of Business and known for shorter, open courses, such as Economics of the University of Lausanne has training workshops for young managers a proven track record in professional transitioning into global leadership roles. development. Respected for its quality, HEC Strategic marketing and driving strategic Lausanne leverages an individual’s personal innovation are also offered. development blended with evidence-based The EPFL EMBA academic leadership and strategic (emba.epfl.ch) management, plus dialogue with top-level is the Executive MBA programme offered by practitioners. The 15-month EMBA programme the Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne offers two dynamic focus areas: Management (EPFL), a globally top-ranked university at the & Corporate Finance / Healthcare forefront of innovation that focuses on Management. Taught in English, classes are implementing innovation. Started in 1998, it is held Fridays and Saturdays every second week. the longest running programme in Europe Successful candidates have a university focusing on the latest technology and degree, a minimum of five to seven years innovation management. It’s a hands-on, professional experience and a strong dynamic and multi-faceted course, taught in motivation to learn and share their experience. English and it equips participants to lead a Personal and professional development is fully tech-oriented workforce, foster a culture of integrated into the EMBA programme - to innovation and lead businesses from ideas to enhance the participants’ interpersonal commercialization. The EPFL EMBA is a aptitudes through personal and career 16-month program that meets every other transition coaching, mindfulness workshops Friday & Saturday. and effective management skills modules. are between 35 and 45, with an average of 12 years professional experience. The course requires them to complete 90 ECTS credits, including 24 modules and an MBA Project, within two years. Specialisations include a block format in Aviation Management, Commodity Trading, and International Organisations.

OICE MAGAZINE ISSUE 05 - WINTER 2016/17

PROMOTION

THE UNIVERSITY OF GENEVA – MBA PROGRAMMES Unique Opportunities for Professional Development - the University of Geneva offers newly compressed block schedule for EMBA www.emba.unige.ch UNIGE, the second largest university in Switzerland, is accredited by the Association of MBAs and serves an international community of students and teachers. It also offers two topranking and unique MBA options, an International Organizations MBA (IOMBA) and an Executive MBA (EMBA) - both of which emphasise the university’s key principles and educational approaches: multidisciplinary, quality, international dimension, and partnerships. By focusing on these concerns, the curriculum keeps pace with ever-evolving market demands in a dynamic city that is at the intersection of business and international public affairs. The IOMBA is designed for professionals from International Organizations, International Non-Governmental Organizations, and Transnational Corporations. This long-standing programmes (12th edition) offers 24 cutting-edge modules covering the political and economic environment of multilateral organizations. The IOMBA is taught by faculty from worldwide leading universities as well as recognized professionals from IOs and NGOs. Its flexible structure - including 24 modules and a Master thesis allows participants to complete over one, two, or three years. The programmes can also be followed as a Diploma of Advanced Studies or as a Certificate of Advances Studies. Candidates are 25 -35, with at least three years professional experience. NEW: The EMBA offers a block schedule format in addition to the traditional bi-weekly structure - alternate week-ends. This compressed format allows students more flexibility - with only three travel journeys per year to Geneva. Participants follow three courses each quarter, each course including three full days, plus virtual courses. Block format: An ideal format for the international student who is conscious of travel time, as well as the local Geneva student with a demanding full-time workload. UNIGE’s EMBA track is structured to ensure that participants gain leadership training through active participation and a corporate executive philosophy. Candidates are between 35 and 45, with an average of 12 years professional experience. The full cycle includes 24 modules and an MBA Project. Participants can interchange modules from traditional and block formats. Specializations include: Aviation, International Commodity Trading, Corporate Social Responsibility, International Management, International Organizations, Modern Management for Non-Profit Organizations, and Strategic Marketing. UNIGE leads in class sizes and flexibility; also in female participants (1:3 ratio).

EDUCATION

The University of Strathclyde Business School and its Swiss Centre at Zurich Airport (www.strathclyde-mba.ch) offer a unique English-language opportunity in Switzerland, with a commitment to executive education here that spans 20 years. The respected Strathclyde MBA is also longestablished, having been set up in Scotland 50 years ago. Offered as a part-time two-year programme, the Strathclyde Executive MBA in Switzerland is designed for busy executives. Next to being a Triple-Accredited programme (AACSB, AMBA and Equis), the Strathclyde Business School MBA was recently ranked No. 41 worldwide by the UK Financial Times Executive MBA Ranking 2016 - and No. 2 in Switzerland (after IMD). As well as an education in General Management, the core strength of the programme is in Corporate Strategy and Strathclyde MBA has been among the Top 10 MBA Programmes in the world in this area over the last years (FT Global MBA Survey). ETH Zurich (the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology) (www.mba.ethz.ch) is a world-leader in science, engineering, technology and mathematics, which reflects across its programmes, including an Executive MBA in Supply Chain Management. With markets and value chains becoming more

complex, managers need to master the challenges in today’s rapidly-changing world. The unique MBA in Supply Chain Management at ETH Zurich was created to address these challenges, offering a deep dive into Supply Chain Management, hosted by the ETH Zurich’s Chair of Logistics Management. As opposed to a general MBA, the 18-month ETH program is one of only a handful worldwide offering a three-month deep dive into the details of Supply Chain Management: Planning, Procurement, Production, Logistics and Transport, and the Systems Design and Control which coordinate the flows between them. The classical aspects of business administration strategy, finance, marketing, organization and leadership - round out the curriculum. After 12 months of weekend classes in Zurich, participants (who generally have five years professional experience), take the last six months to solve a business problem at their company as a Master’s thesis capstone project. Study trips to Russia, the US, and a combined trip to Japan and China establish strong links to the industry. The MBA ETH SCM limits its class size to 25, so each participant receives personal attention, and has the opportunity to engage directly with one another. Applications September 2017 are now open.

The University of Basel (advancedstudies.unibas.ch) teaches many of its continuing education and executive programmes in English. For example, an MBA in Academic Management (aimed at candidates developing a professional career in the structure and organisation of higher education), and Project Management in Medicines Development, a short course centred on the health and pharmaceutical sector. In fact short one- or two-day professional add-on courses are something of a speciality at Basel, with subjects ranging from Marketing Management to Publishing Research Articles and Writing Productivity. MOOCS (mooc-list.com) could be the way forward if your current professional and personal position does not have the bandwidth for full- or even part-time attendance at a business school. Englishlanguage materials include filmed lectures, videos and readings - and in recent years many universities in the US and Asia have partnered with MOOCS providers. It is currently estimated that some eight million students of all ages are signed up to a MOOCS course; the three leading providers being Coursera, edX and Udacity. Downsides? Completion rates can be poor, due to lack of interaction and personal support.

PROMOTION

IUT ANNECY – SAVOIE MONT BLANC UNIVERSITY www.iut-acy.univ-savoie.fr T: + 33 (0)450 092 308 The University Institute of Technology (IUT) Annecy, asserts its pole position in the Outdoor Sports industry in partnership with the Outdoor Sports Valley Association (OSV): Columbia, Eider, Fusalp, Lafuma, Millet, The North Face France, Patagonia Europe, Picture, TSL Outdoor, Salomon…

Don't miss your chance to be a future leader in the fascinating sports product industry. Apply to one of our three Bachelor degree programs: •

Performance Sports Textile & Footwear - launched 2012, provides Product Managers or Product Developers

•

International Sales Specialists in Sports - launched 2014, trains future Sales Managers for outdoor brands

•

Sports Design and Communication - launches September 2017, providing Go-to-Market Managers, specially employed by small & medium-sized companies.

Open-minded, creative and curious - with a passion for sports? Then join emerging Outdoor Sports industry leaders and propel your career with hands-on learning from experienced professionals. Fully taught in English, with one year of intensive curricula - alternating technical and academic study with internships and projects.

Learn all the skills required in the complete life-cycle of sports apparel, footwear and equipment – with great opportunities. Job placement a key component of all programs. Classes start fall 2017. Apply now until May 2017. OICE MAGAZINE ISSUE 05 - WINTER 2016/17

THE MCKAY INTERVIEW

We wanted a Hollywood drama, good versus bad, new versus old – but what was happening in front of the cameras was theatre. The reality was one dictatorship replacing another.

THE

McKay INTERVIEW

WITH

This interview can be heard in full on The McKay Interview at www. worldradio.ch

Tim Sebastien © DW/N. OICE MAGAZINE ISSUE 05 - WINTER 2016/17 Bibel

THE MCKAY INTERVIEW

ward-winning journalist Tim Sebastian started his BBC career more than 40 years ago. Expelled from Moscow in 1985, he was based in Washington DC during the Reagan Presidency and hosted the BBC’s HARDtalk interviewing Presidents Bill Clinton and Jimmy Carter, Archbishop Desmond Tutu, Singapore’s first PM Lee Kuan Yew and Soviet leader Mikhail Gorbachev. Tim won a BAFTA for his work on the Doha Debates for the BBC and has twice won the UK’s prestigious RTS Interviewer of the Year. He currently presents the acclaimed Conflict Zone for Deutsche Welle TV.

The McKay Interview is sponsored by:

employed the services of a country with scant regard for human rights or freedom of the press – asking it to be a safe haven for refugees! As for Saudi Arabia, if you talk privately to officials in Washington they’ll tell you that it’s the centre Sebastian: It offers tremendous value as a way of the Wahhabi movement, the Islamic ideology of stress-testing the system. You could describe that inspired Isis and Al-Qaida – and yet they’ve it as a war game, centred on a manufactured done nothing to counteract this extremism. crisis situation. Then we bring in high level officials, including intelligence people, and put I think it’s important to make one further point them under pressure in such a way that we about Isis. For the last 40 years the Arabs have been oppressed, but now they see Isis as being illuminate the decision-making process. on the winning side. Even if they don’t support McKay: Would you say you are challenging the brutality, it’s an emotional pull. them for answers? McKay: How do you see some of the shifts in Sebastian: Definitely - I challenge them to take global power? What of Russia and NATO? How us inside the process. How are these crises will China find a balance? managed? Supposing a Russian military aircraft enters British airspace and we shoot it down? Sebastian: I think Russia is testing NATO. What kind of crisis ensues and what are the Ukraine is part of NATO’s Eastern Partnership, calculations that leaders must make? They but Russia effectively swallowed the Crimea need to react fast as events can get out of and we sat back! control very quickly. In Russia’s eyes I believe we look weak and that McKay: You’ve travelled extensively in the another test will come up. We are risk adverse in Middle East, a region at the forefront of our the West but Russia is prepared to take risks. attention for many years. How do you see Russia regularly flies planes over NATO territory, current developments? yet it was surprised when the Turkish air force Sebastian: In my opinion the best we can hope shot one down. Article Five of the NATO Treaty for is status quo. I’ve been going to the Middle says that if one member country is attacked it East for 30 years and I’m asking the same should be seen as an attack on all members. questions today as I was then. The Israeli But President Putin is looking at Europe and can occupation of Palestine; the brutality, the see that people would not go to war in support corruption. We had some hope with the Arab of another country. Putin manages power very Spring, but what has been the result? Mass easily; while for us it’s very diffuse - and he sees graves and millions of refugees. It was a brief Brexit as a dissembling of the EU. flowering of hope which we naively believed in. China is also flexing its muscles in the South We wanted a Hollywood drama, good versus China Sea and the new President has taken the bad, new versus old – but what was happening country back 30 years with his crackdown on in front of the cameras was theatre. The reality the media and dissidents. Yet China remains assertive on the international scene. There will was one dictatorship replacing another. definitely be more confrontations coming from McKay: How do you see recent events in Turkey, China in the future. Saudi Arabia and Iran impacting on our security? McKay: You’ve met many of the great leaders Sebastian: The West has ambivalent attitudes and statesmen of our time. In your opinion how to all those countries at the moment. Take Iran important is the individual? Or is it events that for example. President Obama thought it better shape history? to have a deal rather than no deal, especially on the nuclear issue. However, in Romania they’ve Sebastian: There’s a reference that’s very set up a defence system in case we see missiles appropriate: “History moves forward on the coming out of Iran. As for Turkey, the EU backs of individuals”. This is so true; it’s not outsourced the migrant problem and allegedly mass movements that change history. Most key handed over €3billion, going up to a possible judgements - most ground-breaking decisions €6billion. But what are they getting? They’ve are actually made by individuals. McKay: We’re here at the Geneva Centre for Security Policy, where you recently chaired a crisis management event. Tell us why this is a useful exercise?

THE MCKAY INTERVIEW WITH MICHAEL MCKAY Michael McKay, based in Founex, Switzerland, is an international communications, public affairs and management strategies consultant with over 40 years experience. He is also an experienced master of ceremonies, event moderator and broadcaster. For more information, see www.mckays.ch Listen to The McKay Interview. See schedule on page 94. OICE MAGAZINE ISSUE 05 - WINTER 2016/17

FOOD

Taking

comfort...

From a delicious cheesy omelette to a fresh, fluffy pancake, everyone loves a few treats in winter. And when itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s seriously chilly outside - and you wake up running on empty - what better way to toast the weekend than a mouth-watering brunch?

Enjoy!

OICE MAGAZINE ISSUE 05 - WINTER 2016/17

78 78

te and Lazy. ..

Hangover cure or family gathering - a weekend brunch is the meal worth getting up for! And the fastest way to get teenagers up and out of the house? Invite them to brunch. Hereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s our pick of the best... OICE MAGAZINE ISSUE 05 - WINTER 2016/17

FOOD - BRUNCH

Brunch Train, Montreux – Gstaad. All aboard in grand Belle Époque style with the Montreux Oberland Bernois railway. This scenic Sunday trip in a vintage 1st class rail carriage includes an aperitif, three-course brunch, fantastic views, plus free teas and coffees all the way! Depart at 10.00am and return on any MOB afternoon service. See schedule for dates & details. www.mob.ch

Le bar-à-chocolat de Gilles Desplanches Globus - Balexert, Geneva If your weekend’s not complete without Swiss chocolate then drop into choco-heaven, served hot, chilled, in a cup, in gorgeous squares or in a delicious sprinkle. Saturday 9am – 6pm. Plus two downtown locations - Mollard (Saturday 8am – 10pm) and Confédération (Weekends 10am -6pm). www.gillesdesplanches.com

Bains de Paquis, quai de Mont-Blanc, Geneva. A relaxed breakfast/brunch in vintage, wooden cabins – served Sunday from 8am. Watch hardy swimmers take a dip or book a sauna, Turkish bath or hamman. Fresh juices zing with ginger, and classic Swiss birchermuesli is followed by generous tartines. www.bainsdespaquis.ch

Seventy5 at the Crowne Plaza, av Louis-Casaï, Geneva. Looking for a fun option for play-hungry children? Relax with a lavish buffet while little ones run to the bouncy castle... Delicious mini burgers, a chocolate fountain, Wii games plus helpful supervision. Under 5s eat for free – half price six to 14s. Sunday from 11.55am. www.crowneplaza.com

Café du Centre, place du Mollard, Geneva. Start your Sunday with a classic brasserie experience. Slide into a cosy banquet for a fresh take on tradition by British Chef Justin Grant. Londoner Gant came to Geneva by way of Hyde Park and Lyon. Check out his English Man breakfast... Sunday 10.30am – 4pm www.cafeducentre.ch

KornHaus, Kornhausgasse 10, Basel. Don’t miss homemade house rösti at this Basel classic. But don’t be fooled, there’s a modern twist – including cocktails. Brunch on Saturday until 3pm; tuck into pancakes, Swiss muesli and the KornHaus hangoverkur. Classic recipe or secret remedy? Nope, it’s a vodka smoothy! www.kornhaus-basel.ch

Ly’s Asia – two locations in Zurich. A legend on Zurich’s pan-Asia food scene, Ly’s has canteens in both the trendy Kreis area (Zahnradstrasse) and in Stadelhoferstrasse. Sushi, spicy Thai noodles and a modern Chinese menu delight a young weekend brunch crowd from 11am – 3pm. The industrial, open-plan dining hall/kitchen makes for plenty of noise and clatter – but it’s a buzz that works. www.lys-asia.ch

TOM Café, Ouchy, Lausanne. Re-live the glories of Rio with brunch and a side order of incredible lake views – at the TOM Café, perched atop Lausanne’s popular Olympic Museum. Juices, pancakes, eggs and bacon hit the spot, while children pay just CHF2 per year of their age! Fascinating Olympic memorabilia with a pop of colourful design. Weekends 11am - 2.30pm. www.olympic.org/museum/visit/tom-cafe

Ô CALME, rue Ancienne, Carouge, Geneva. Comme à la maison – and it’s true; you’ll soon feel at home in this old-school Carouge café. Settle in with sweet-scented Chai and a paperback from the bookshelf. Or browse homemade cakes and pastries, scrambled eggs, ham and cheese, plus gluten-free options. Weekends from 10am. Check out the garden on sunny days . www.ocalme.com OICE MAGAZINE ISSUE 05 - WINTER 2016/17

FOOD - BRUNCH

Imperial Palace, Annecy. Relax with amazing Lake Annecy vistas and transform your Sunday into an indulgent Spa day. Chill out with a massage or a dip in the pool, then head to the hotel’s stylish La Brasserie for a sumptuous three-course buffet brunch. Serving classic dishes by Executive Chef Eric Poing, pitched at bistrogastronomy, offering a relaxed feel but maintaining the hotel’s efficient service. There’s also a great menu for kids. Brunch served Sundays from 12 noon – 3pm. www. hotel-imperial-palace.com

Brunch at Radius 39 downtown Wielandplatz, Basel.3 All about eating the best regionally-sourced delicacies, including delicious honey, veggies, fruit, meat and dairy. Pitched in perfectly with the Slow Food movement, Radius 39 offers a bar, café and store – with a real community buzz. Support local growers and farmers and catch up with foodie events. Looking for a change from bacon and pancakes? Try unusual combinations such as quails eggs, homemade scones, muesli and yoghurt. Weekends from 9am www.radiius39.com

Duchessa, Etoy - Geneva - Gstaad. This brand new concept restaurant and gourmet store at Etoy offers a one-stop contemporary food concept, with deli, outside catering and take away. So after you’ve brunched in style (open 11am Saturday, starting soon Sunday) browse shelves of Italian cheese, pasta, pizzas, charcuterie and fine wine. Find Duchessa The Gourmet Kingdom at the centre i.Life at Etoy or Duchessa The Luxury Signature in Geneva and at new Boutique Hotel Ultima Gstaad. www.duchessa.ch

Luigia, Lausanne, Nyon and Geneva. Pizza for brunch? The kids will love you for ever... But family-friendly Luigia manages to maintain an air of slick sophistication despite welcoming little ones with bambini servings of several Italian classics. Ingredients are super-fresh, presentation and service first class and Luigia prides itself on a 72-hour process to create its distinctive homemade pizza dough. Not your usual Italian-rustic. PLUS Nutella pizza for dessert! Open from 12 noon at weekends. www.luigia.com

The Bagel Boys, Zurich Bread is good, toast is better – but for a real New York brunch it has to be a bagel... The Bagel Boys is a restaurant and bakery that brings you an authentic taste of home, plus bio-credentials and fantastic choice. Seeded bagels, sweet glazed; bagels, plain, loaded up as a sandwich or bagel minis, check out the Bagel Boys restaurant in the Hunziker area (Dialoweg), open 9am – 2pm weekends. Can’t make it into town? The Bagel Boys will deliver. Weekends from 9am www.mybagel.ch

Glow Bar, Geneva’s five-star lakeside, Hotel President Wilson. A Japanese brunch at the Wilson has got to be the coolest ways to kick-start your weekend. Michelin-starred chef Michel Roth serves delicious delicate sushi and maki next to a stylish contemporary fireplace, with a playroom and babysitter nearby. Check out classic French and Lebanese dishes, weekly themes and events. Roth is also known for his elegant Umami Japanese restaurant. Sunday 11.30 am – 2pm. www.hotelpresidentwilson.com/en/brunch

City Garden Hotel, downtown Zug Set in a tranquil green and wooded space off Metallstrasse, the hotel’s CU Restaurant & bar is a popular after-work hangout for young professionals. But on Sundays it’s the CU Long Breakfast that ticks all the boxes. Market-fresh dishes and healthy options help create this buffet-with-a-view, and local regulars enjoy delicious cheese, wholegrain bread, eggs, sausages and homemade marmalade! Sounds like a walk in the park... Sunday from 8.30am -2pm. www.cu-restaurant.ch

Bloom Restaurant & Bar, Winterthur’s four-star Park Hotel by night a smart cocktails destination that turns into a relaxed and comfortable hotel diner at weekends! But be warned – book ahead if you want to be sure of a table as Bloom is busy. Sunday brunch kicks off at 11am and in addition to breakfast buffet classics you can expect beef filet and deserts – so it’s definitely a combo of early morning treats and lunchtime specials. There’s a glass of sparkling Prosecco on hand too – plus under 12s pay CHF2 for every year of their age. www.bloom.ch

Bohemia Bar & Grill Zurich A laid-back vibe and a menu called Brunch Makes You Happy! It clearly works as regulars cheerfully tuck into a weekend brunch at the Kreuzplatz classic until 4pm! Pick-me-up cocktails and wonderful bacon and egg combos. Fancy a Steak & Egg brunch? This one comes with a side order of hash browns and bacon. Or how about Chia Pudding, made from almond milk and served with granola and fruit. Bohemia is open 9am – 4pm weekend. bohemia.ch OICE MAGAZINE ISSUE 05 - WINTER 2016/17

PROMOTION

BASE NYON Rue Jules-Gachet 2 1260 Nyon T: +41 (0)22 361 36 36 hello@basenyon.com www.basenyon.com Base Nyon has torn up the rule book on apartment hotels and runs on a completely fresh and dynamic new model - combining the flexibility and services of a hotel with the space, convenience and choice of a serviced apartment. State of the art kitchens, comfortable Italian designer living spaces and contemporary bathrooms, Base Nyon was created with quality, sustainability and value in mind. Stay for one night or one hundred, it’s your choice. Following on from their own disappointing hotel experiences, co-founders James Fry (English) & Frédéric Mydske (Swiss/Norwegian) set about designing the ideal suites for professionals relocating, tourists and families. A focus on a good night’s sleep was their priority: triple glazed windows, sound-proofed walls, blackout exterior blinds/ interior curtains, plus thermostats in every suite and super comfy Hypnos beds and linen. Then there’s Intenet HDTV, Wi-Fi (always free – of course), VoIP phones, Nespresso coffee machines and super powerful rain showers. You can go for a spin on a Base Bike or hit the 24/7 gym. For lunch or dinner relax at the excellent modern Italian Luigia Restaurant & Bar, then choose from a wide variety of items and have them delivered to your door in a Base Breakfast Bag (BBB). Fancy penthouse living? Separate bedrooms, walk-through dressing areas and private balconies; all close by the exclusive Base Balcony & Bar – a smart after work hang out with great cityscape views of Nyon, Lake Geneva and the Alps. And Base Nyon is confident you’ll be back. Regulars take advantage of a practical Base Box (BB) - for storage between trips, ready to unpack in their new suite when they return. Base Nyon - 52 fully serviced suites that you won’t want to leave. From CHF265 a night (up to six nights); 30-day extended stays from CHF190 a night.

FOOD - RECIPES

Full Monty H

ead Chef JUSTIN GRANT at Café du Centre in Geneva is no stranger to a full English Breakfast. Here Londoner Grant tells Voice Magazine about the highquality local ingredients he sources for his British Brunch special, and the cheeky addition of baked beans. Justin Grant trained at a leading London hotel in Hyde Park before setting off for a post in Geneva at the age of 20. After 18 months the ambitious young chef was on the move again, this time to Lyon to work with VIP chef Paul Bocuse. Two years later and Justin was back in Geneva at the famous Lion d’Or

restaurant in Cologny. From there it was only a short journey to the renowned Café du Centre, where he became Head Chef in 2001; at only 26. But despite the high-profile gourmet dining you can’t fool a Londoner that a croissant is actually a real breakfast - and Justin remains a big fan of the classic British fry-up. Especially after a night out...

We know it as The Full Monty – Café du Centre calls it The English Man...

INGREDIENTS: •

Locally- produced smoked back bacon

•

Farm-fresh free range eggs

•

Traditional Cumberland sausages (made in the UK)

•

Grilled tomatoes

•

Heinz baked beans

•

Mushrooms

•

Fried potatoes with onions

“All of the above should be sourced from a high-quality butcher or grocer – you really can taste the difference. The fried potatoes go perfectly with eggs and it goes without saying that you need baked beans,” Justin Grant.

Café du Centre, place du Molard 5, Geneva. Brunch served 10.30am - 4pm Sundays. Open Mon to Friday 6.30am to midnight, weekends from 9am. www.cafeducentre.com

OICE MAGAZINE ISSUE 05 - WINTER 2016/17

PROMOTION

EUROCAVE SUISSE T +41 (0)22 364 87 22 www.cavepremium.ch Is your precious wine collection stored correctly? Do you have mismatched bottle racks cluttering up your kitchen? Vintage wines need optimum conditions in order to develop taste and body - and will actually deteriorate with poor storage. Even your average label suffers if kept in the fridge or shelved on a work surface. EuroCave Suisse at Gland leads in stylish, efficient wine storage solutions, enhancing your kitchen or cellar with discreet options - from a temperature-controlled glass-fronted armoire to a stunning walk-in cave. With 40 years of experience, and a great reputation for installation and after-sales, the EuroCave experts will guide you on wine care and find the perfect fit for your home. A sleek and streamlined armoire adds a designer feature to your kitchen, while an elegant cave becomes a personal wine bar! Draw back chromed glass doors to reveal a contemporary stone and pebble floor (perfect for balanced humidity); ahead are immaculate rows of steel and wood racks, carefully conserving and displaying your favourite wines. Drawers, cooling shelves and traditional elements all available â&#x20AC;&#x201C; creating the perfect environment and controlled at the flick of a switch...

INGREDIENTS (serves four)

Benedict A

nd another classic recipe fom Chef Justin Grant...

From a hung-over Wall Street broker called Lemuel Benedict to Commodore E C Benedict ordering up a special at the Waldorf Hotel, there’s been many a claim to the origins of this classic New York brunch dish. But whatever the story, there’s no doubting its ability to pep up a Sunday morning...

•

8 soft-poached free range eggs

•

4 toasted English muffins cut in half

•

8 grilled rashers of smoked bacon

•

1/2 l Hollandaise sauce

“Poach the eggs in salted, simmering water with a splash of white vinegar. Grill the bacon until crispy. Toast and butter the muffin halves. Drain the eggs. Now place the grilled bacon onto the muffins, place the drained eggs on top an d coat generously with the Hollandaise sauce. ” - Justin Grant.

OICE MAGAZINE ISSUE 05 - WINTER 2016/17

DIG IT!

Magic The temperatures are dropping, there’s not a hint of warmth in the sun, and all the sensible little animals are fast asleep, but in the garden it’s still possible to conjure some green magic out of the earth.

f you’re reading this in early winter, and the ground is not yet frozen, you can still pop in some baby plants, or better yet, stand them on the balcony or terrace where you can give them some TLC when required.

winter, and robust heritage varieties like Bleu de Solaise are very tasty.

There are, however, a few cold-hardy veggies that can be planted late, and some of the oldest varieties are still in use, such as mâche, For inspiration, think about winter foods, leek or corn salad, or the marvellously-named and potato soup, or kale and mushroom Good King Henry. Check on the back of the risotto. The more traditional the food, the seed pack for sowing directions - and get more likely the vegetables will have been ready with some frost protection for the baby harvested and dried (like onions) or left plants. outdoors, treating the vegetable patch like a If you don’t have access to a garden, all these gigantic fridge. winter hardy vegetables do well, sometimes The vegetable family that lends itself brilliantly better, in a container. How about combining to this latter treatment are the Crucifers - the vegetables with flowers for some winter cabbages and their cousins. The family is colour? Swiss Chard is a terrific leafy vegetable huge, including kale, broccoli, kohlrabi, to combine in a mixed pot. The Bright Lights cauliflowers and turnips, and yes, most do series is widely available, and you can nip off a appear in traditional foods, that take us over couple of leaves here and there over the winter the tricky January “hungry gap” when harvest without damaging the plant. Beautiful and stores are running low. Mashed turnip, delicious! Plant with winter-flowering pansies, or some brightly coloured Heucheras. anyone? The disadvantage of these super-tough veggies is that you need to sow them well before winter gets going as to survive minus temperatures they need a good root system, which takes several months of development. So think ahead for next year. Brussels sprouts should be planted in late Spring, cabbages anytime from February - June. Leeks can be sown indoors from January, or outdoors from April with some frost protection. You can leave them in the ground for months over

regular compost in a seed tray. Once used, tip the soil into the garden, wash the tray with hot water and soap and start again. Depending on the season and how sunny your windowsill is, seeds could be ready in three weeks - ideal for impatient gardeners! I love the Asian mixed packs, with mizuna, pak choi and mustard. Or try Brunos’ Indoor Garden Mix, which contains a beautiful collection of 14 different seeds. Summer seeds left over? Rocket, coriander and even kale all make good micro greens. What are you waiting for? On your marks, get set, plant!

Or why not try micro greens? You may have spotted these delicious little plants in restaurants - chefs love them because they add flavour but little bulk to delicate dishes. Microgreens grow from ordinary seeds, but instead of waiting until the plant is mature, you snip it off when it has just a couple of leaves and a delicate little stem. Unlike sprouting seeds, which can be risky (linked to a number of recent Salmonella, E.coli and Listeria outbreaks), micro greens grow in

DIG IT WITH HESTER MACDONALD Hester Macdonald is a British-qualified, award-winning garden designer with her own practice in the Lake Geneva region. She founded the Swiss Gardening School in 2012 to provide gardening courses in English for amateurs, by professionals. www.swissgardeningschool.com Listen to Dig It on WRS. See schedule on page 94. OICE MAGAZINE ISSUE 05 - WINTER 2016/17

HELP ? AU

SECOURS ?

HALFE ?

HEALTH MATTERS WITH DR. MICHELLE WRIGHT Dr Michelle Wright is a British-trained General Practitioner and one of the Medical Directors of HealthFirst, delivering First Aid Training and Health Education in English throughout Switzerland: www.healthfirst.ch. Michelle also works as a doctor in the Staff Medical Service of the International Labour Organisation in Geneva and is a medical writer and journalist. Listen to Health Matters on WRS. www.healthfirst.ch Listen to Health Matters on WRS. See schedule on p.94. OICE MAGAZINE ISSUE 05 - WINTER 2016/17

HEALTH MATTERS

Do you know what to say in a medical emergency? By Dr. Michelle Wright, MBChB, MRCGP, Medical Director of HealthFirst

competent to communicate in the most important situations. This is why HealthFirst has compiled these English-French and English-German important phrases that you may need in a medical emergency situation. Keep them handy; leave them by the home phone, in your car, in your hand-bag or backAnother communication strategy in this region pack or tucked inside your First Aid kit. Save is an agreement with REGA, the Swiss Air- them on your mobile - and make them Rescue. All REGA operators are required to be available to others, including children. Being fluent in English and will accept a 144 call being as prepared as possible will help reduce stress ‘patched through’ to them. A three-way and anxiety in an emergency medical conversation can then be conducted so that the situation. right help gets to the right person.

Whether you’ve just moved to Switzerland or been here for a while, you may feel that you don’t speak French or Swiss-German like a local. Getting by in the supermarket or in a restaurant is one thing, but talking about medical or health concerns with a doctor, nurse or paramedic is another. Faced with an emergency situation, when we are likely to be feeling especially stressed and anxious, it can be even more difficult to find the right words to communicate with. And what if you need to call an ambulance urgently? There won’t be time to use translation apps or a dictionary.

course recently and I asked him whether English was widely spoken by the team. The answer was: “Most of the time there will be someone on duty who can speak English. Callers shouldn’t be afraid to ask if they need this. Their call can then be passed to the appropriate operator.”

I was speaking to one of the 144 phone operators in the canton of Vaud on a training

However, I still believe that we should do our best to learn the local language and feel

Help!

Hilfe

Au secours! A l’aide!

I need an ambulance

Ich benötige einen Krankenwagen

J'ai besoin d'une ambulance

My address is…

Meine Adresse lautet…

Mon adresse est...

There has been an accident on… Road Traffic Accident (RTA) My child/my husband/my wife/my friend is very sick He/she is having difficulty breathing He/she has stopped breathing He/she is choking He/she is unconscious He/she has had a cardiac arrest

Verkehrsunfall (VKU)

Il y a eu un accident sur la route de... Accident Voie Publique (AVP)

Mein Kind/mein Mann/meine Frau/mein Freund ist sehr krank

Mon enfant/mon mari/ma femme/mon ami(e) est très malade

Er/Sie hat Probleme zu atmen

Il/elle respire difficilement

Er/Sie atmet nicht mehr Er/Sie ist in Atemnot Er/Sie ist bewusstlos

Il/elle ne respire plus Il/elle est en train de s'étouffer Il/elle est inconscient(e)

Er/Sie hat einen Herzstillstand

Il/elle a eu un arrêt cardiaque

Es hat einen Unfall gegeben...

J’ai fait la réanimation cardiopulmonaire Je vais continuer la réanimation cardiopulmonaire

I have been giving CPR**

Ich habe reanimiert

I will continue to give CPR**

Ich setze die Reanimation fort

He/she has drunk/eaten something

Er/Sie hat etwas getrunken/ gegessen

Il/elle a bu/mangé quelque chose

He/she is allergic to… He/she has been bitten by a dog/snake He/she has been stung by a bee I think he/she is having a severe allergic reaction

Er/Sie ist allergisch auf…. Er/Sie wurde von einem Hund/ einer Schlange gebissen Er/Sie wurde von einer Biene gestochen Ich glaube er/sie hat eine schlimme allergische Reaktion

Il/elle est allergique à... Il/elle a été mordu(e) par un chien/un serpent Il/elle a été piqué(e) par une abeille Je crois qu’il/elle fait une réaction allergique grave

I am in labour

Ich habe Geburtswehen

Je suis en train d’accoucher

A REMINDER OF THE EMERGENCY NUMBERS IN SWITZERLAND: 118 Fire

144 Ambulance

117 Police

1414 Mountain Rescue (REGA)

145 Poisoning emergency

OICE MAGAZINE ISSUE 05 - WINTER 2016/17

GUARDIAN WEALTH MANAGEMENT

Take Control Women experience a unique set of 21st century lifestyle and economic issues - and often see clear differences with male counterparts. Here Majbritt ByskovBridges from Guardian Wealth Management highlights the main issues and offers practical tips:

PRACTICAL TIPS AND ADVICE TO HELP INCREASE CONFIDENCE WHEN DEALING WITH MONEY: Don’t be afraid to ask questions and educate yourself.

Ask yourself the following questions. Any Nos? We strongly recommend you conduct a detailed review of your finances to ensure your life goals are achieved.

Choose a Financial Advisor who is willing and able to clearly explain - and appreciate - your financial situation.

•

Do you monitor your investments and know what retirement income you’re on track for?

Talk about money - and make well-informed decisions.

•

Have you considered the cost of your children’s education?

Money and household finances in particular can be complicated and rarely discussed. Openly chatting about your finances facilitates the development of a flexible and realistic financial plan – with contingencies against unexpected bumps in the road.

•

Have you accounted for inheritance tax?

•

Do you know the annual and lifetime savings limits where you reside?

•

Have you considered where you will retire?

•

Do you have concerns over currency exchange fluctuations?

Women tend to leave investing to their Protect yourself, your income and your retirement nest egg. partner Earning money is one thing, protecting that income is a completely different matter. Implementing a plan to control and minimise the cost of treating serious illness, as well as disruption to work and lifestyle, can be achieved for as little as the cost of a daily cup Women tend to think of their money as of coffee. benefiting their family Get your estate affairs in order, and pass your Whilst this is commendable, the best way to wealth to loved ones - not the State! ensure you are able to support your family is to first and foremost ensure your finances are It’s not a subject most of us care to think in order. If you aren’t in control how can you about; but get the right advice and your estate will pass quickly and efficiently to loved ones. help those closest to you financially? Women may feel intimidated by the jargonfilled, male-dominated world of finance. But with an ever growing number of marriages ending in divorce, can you afford to shy away from controlling your finances?

Women tend to earn less and live longer

Plan for a lifestyle

A combination of lower pay and longer life expectancy means that at some point you may be solely responsible for your family’s financial wellbeing. You can bury your head in the sand, or you can seize the initiative and take control of your future.

Build a financial plan built around a chosen lifestyle - rather than driving decisions around products available on the market. It takes time and imagination - but only by being aware of the obstacles, can you fill a sustainable purse to last you a lifetime!

Reality can bite plan for every eventuality.

WEALTH BY MAJBRITT BYSKOV-BRIDGES Majbritt is a Senior Financial Consultant at GWM, helping clients find the best financial solutions and taking a specific interest in protecting the financial future of the international community. With a BA in Economics from the Copenhagen Business College and a trilingual Masters from the European School of Management based in Oxford, Madrid and Paris, Majbritt started her career on the trading floor at Morgan Stanley in London. She is Danish/British but grew up in Ecuador and Switzerland. OICE MAGAZINE ISSUE 05 - WINTER 2016/17

PROMOTION

RESIDENCE LA RESERVE www.residence-la-reserve.com 1 Av. du Jura, 01210 Ferney Voltaire. T: +33 450 40 30 20 Conveniently located in France, but with easy access to Geneva, the airport and Palexpo, the 4-star Residence La Réserve in Ferney Voltaire offers hotel service with all the freedom of home! And with car parking, plus the Urban Café bar & lounge you’re perfectly located to meet with clients and colleagues. Families also enjoy Residence La Réserve as the fully-serviced apartments make for a relaxed environment. Enjoy dining at the bustling Urban Café and short or long-term stays are an ideal solution for holidays or relocation. Rooms, studios and apartments at Residence La Réserve are stylish and contemporary, with free WiFi and access to a fitness centre and steam room (PLUS a beautiful pool and terrace in summer). Expecting guests? Welcome them at Residence La Réserve and gather round the log fire at the Urban Café bar & lounge. Or perhaps you need to connect with the Geneva Motor Show, events at the Arena, the UN or the multinationals? All just a few minutes away... PLUS: Check out the cosy fireplace at the Urban Café bar & lounge – making Residence La Réserve a great choice at any time of the year! Located in the Pays de Gex, France

PROMOTION

DOMAINE DE DIVONNE T +33 (0)450 40 34 34 www.domainedivonne.com Great golf, fine dining, an elegant hotel and the buzz of an inhouse casino - the Domaine de Divonne is a one-stop destination, whatever the event. Played a fantastic round or surpassed a PB? Stay on the course with drinks at Le Pavillon du Golf; with a relaxed clubhouse vibe for easy networking. Ready to eat? The seasonal menu sets the bar high. Thursday – Saturday, lunch & dinner, Sunday lunch. (Winter schedule) With glorious views of the Mont-Blanc and Jura, the rolling landscape of the Golf at Domaine de Divonne is a local favourite. But did you know that guests play anytime? And with regular competitions there’s great team spirit. Beginners enjoy the driving range or lessons – while seasoned players appreciate feedback from club professionals. Looking for your next corporate venue? Luxury Art Deco classic, the Domaine de Divonne Grand Hôtel has four restaurants and a range of well-equipped meeting rooms; ready to create that bespoke training event you’ve been planning. And when the talking’s done set the stakes high with a fun casino night. Family Alert: Legendary Sunday Brunch at the Grand Hotel: free for little ones/half-price under 12s. Located in the Pays de Gex, France

WRS OUT & ABOUT

WRS OUT

ABOUT

No one can accuse the WRS team of hiding in the studio! This year we were Out & About meeting listeners at great events across the country – and of course we took Voice Magazine with us and the WRS digital community... First it was amazing Nendaz in the Valais, broadcasting LIVE from the elegant Hotel Nendaz 4 Valleés and Spa. While Mark Butcher hosted the WRS Breakfast Show from the cool lobby bar Katt Cullen was off exploring the magical Spa with the Mid Morning Mix... Then it was time to pack the WRS bags for glamorous Verbier, with both Mark and Katt hosting busy morning shows from the stylish and contemporary Hotel Nevai. Both resorts were absolutely buzzing and the team are pleased to be heading back up to Nendaz and Verbier again this winter. Perfect for the WRS Snow Report! Back down to earth and one of the highlights of the international sporting calendar the 2016 WRS Golf Tournament! After a great competition day at the Domaine de Divonne Golf, in Divonne les Bains, the Men’s and Women’s Champions were crowned. Congratulations from all at WRS and from sponsors Audiconsult to: • •

Men's Champion Golfer Graham Kennedy and Women’s Champion Golfer Lesley Wulf. Men's Runner-up Benoit Migne and Women’s Runner-up Marilyn Andrews.

Well played!

OICE MAGAZINE ISSUE 05 - WINTER 2016/17

SCHEDULE

Time

WRS Schedule Monday

Tuesday

Wednesday

Thursday

Friday

Saturday

Sunday

Time

0:00

1:00

2:00

3:00

BBC Overnight Programming

4:00

5:00

6:00

6:30 6:40

Butcherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Breakfast Dig It!

Health Matters

6:30 Word of Mouth

Kids in Mind

Gadget Guru

6:40

7:00

8:00

BBC

BBC Weekend

8:00

BBC

BBC Outlook

9:40

9:00 9:40

9:00 Film nut

Kids in Mind

Dig It!

Word of Mouth

Learn More

9:45 10:00

Mid Morning Mix with Katt

Style File

The Food Chain

9:45

McKay Interview

10:00

10:30 10:40

10:30 Fit tips

Word of Mouth

Film nut

Learn More

Plane Talk

10:40

10:45

11:00

Style File

11:20

UN Roundup

11:40

Health Matters

Gadget Guru

Learn More

Dig It!

Kids in Mind

11:45 12:00

BBC Outside Source