Discover Germany | Issue 7 | September 2013

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Issue 7 | September 2013

PLUS SPA HEAVEN SWITZERLAND

Alexandra Maria Lara HOLLYWOOD’S DARLING FROM BERLIN

GREAT AUTUMN TRADE FAIRS FINE GOODS MADE IN GERMANY

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Discover Germany | Contents

Contents SEPTEMBER 2013

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20 Photo: Leukerbad Tourism

COVER FEATURE 6

Photo: Prodinger GFB Hotel Post

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Alexandra Maria Lara Meet Alexandra Maria Lara, the charming actress who took Hollywood by storm. Playing Niki Lauda’s wife in the Formula One themed blockbuster The Rush, she has just added another great role to her portfolio.

REGULARS & COLUMNS 9

FEATURES 12

14

Read about the CJD Braunschweig’s excellence programme to promote highly talented pupils and what makes the International School so successful.

Discover Germany presents the Zeppelin Museum Friedrichshafen.Take a peek at the world’s largest collection on the history of airship aviation.

SPECIAL THEMES 19

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Stuttgart, where car lovers are treated to some truly outstanding room design.

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Our Austrian Hotel of the Month is the Arcotel Kaiserwasser in Vienna. Located in the heart of the diplomatic centre of town the hotel has a lot to offer.

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Our German Attraction of the Month leads us to the town of Ludwigsburg with its MIK Museum, where the Ludwigsburg museum, the tourist information centre and the local art society are combined under one roof. Ludwigsburg has an exciting event calendar and an impressive Baroque residence too.

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Austria’s Liechtenstein Garden Palace and Liechtenstein City Palace are our recommendations of the month. The lavish splendour of the Baroque era has been well preserved in these stately palaces which have been home to royalty for centuries.

Dedicated to Design

Fashion Finds With the Oktoberfest comes the Dirndl and we tell you the secret behind the bow.

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Attractions of the Month

Dine & Wine Bratwurst, Currywurst, Leberkäs and Co are conquering London.

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Business Legal expert advice, great conference venues and a different kind of head-hunter.

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Restaurant of the Month Winner of the European Hospitality Award in 2012, the restaurant Sèvres in Frankfurt offers excellent wine and gourmet dishes in a historical ambience.

Made in Germany German manufacturers are world-famous for outstanding quality. Discover Germany presents some of the finest producers of goods, who have gained fame far beyond the national borders.

Photo: ARCOTEL Kaiserwasser

It is all about wood. Sleek, minimalistic or raw – this material never fails to impress.

Wellness & Spa Switzerland Spectacular surroundings, thermal spas and relaxing treatments are just a glimpse of what Swiss spas have to offer.Take time out and enjoy total pampering in these hand-picked retreats.

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Autumn Fairs Explore the exciting trade fairs of the season, where the latest products and services are brought to the world and plenty of inspiration can be found.

Hotels of the Month 54

It’s all about horsepower in the V8 Hotel near

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Culture: Octoberfest 2013 Plenty of insider information about this year’s Oktoberfest will make sure that no question remains unanswered. Our witty columnist Barbara Geier does not like beer, so how does she cope with the Oktoberfest?

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Dear Reader,

Discover Germany

Sales & Key Account Managers

Issue 7, September 2013

Lena Meyer

Published 15.09.2013 ISSN 2051-7718

Faye Beermann Ariam Bereket Caroline Nindl

Published by Scan Magazine Ltd. Design & Print Liquid Graphic Ltd. Executive Editor

Advertising info@discovergermany.com Discover Germany is published by: Scan Magazine Ltd. 4 Baden Place Crosby Row London SE1 1YW

Thomas Winther Creative Director Mads E. Petersen

Phone +44 (0)870 933 0423 info@discovergermany.com

Editor Tina Awtani

For further information, please visit www.discovergermany.com

Art Director Svetlana Slizova Copy-Editor

Welcome to the September issue of Discover Germany.This month we present you with a very special bit of German culture.

The Oktoberfest Munich officially starts on noon September 21, when Munich’s Lord Mayor Christian Ude announces “Ozapft is!” – “the barrel is tapped!” Discover Germany takes a closer look at this year’s Oktoberfest including the Dirndl dresses which reveal the marital status of a Wiesn lady. Read our fashion pages to find out more.

This month’s cover is graced by Hollywood’s darling Alexandra Maria Lara, who stars alongside Chris Hemsworth and Daniel Brühl in the thrilling movie The Rush, an epic Formula One drama, based on true events, about the rivalry between Austrian pilot Niki Lauda and his British rival James Hunt. In our star interview the soon mum-to-be opens up about challenges on set and how being married to a Brit changed her life.

For all those who are looking for a great place to recharge the batteries we are featuring a wonderful selection of the finest spas in Switzerland such as Leukerbad in south western Switzerland, the thermal spa resort which has been praised by Goethe and Thomas Cook.You’ll be amazed by what Swiss spas have to offer!

From total relaxation we move to terrific trade fairs as autumn is the high season for those willing to exhibit great new products and services and those business travellers on the hunt for the latest trend. Featured trade fairs include some of the biggest names in the industry as well as highly specialised niche market providers and an expert in setting up trade fair stalls across the globe.

Mark Rogers Contributors Elisabeth Doehne Lydia Evers Barbara Geier Jessica Holzhausen Julika Hüther Gregor Kleinknecht Anne Krehbiel Franziska Nössig Jessica Pommer

Did you ever wonder what makes products made in Germany so special? Read our special theme to find out and prepare to be wowed as we present you with some great examples of manufacturers who gained international fame with the creation of products made in Germany.

Our business section is packed with exciting information from setting up a business in the UK to the perfect conference venue.

And we proudly present the only recruitment agency in the world specialising in connecting German speaking clients and candidates.

Leonie Puscher Julien Rath Dorina Reichholdt Marilena Stracke

© All rights reserved. Material contained in this publication may not be reproduced, in whole or in part, without prior permission of Scan Magazine Ltd. This magazine contains advertorials/promotional articles

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Truly special restaurants, amazing hotels and exciting things to do in Germany, Austria and Switzerland are show-cased in this magazine while our culture section brings you a little step closer to understanding the German way of life.

Enjoy the magazine!

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Cover Feature | Alexandra Maria Lara

Alexandra Maria Lara Fast cars, cool sneakers and Yorkshire Tea Romanian-born German actress Alexandra Maria Lara (34) achieved her international break-through in 2004 by playing Hitler’s secretary Traudl Junge in the Oscarnominated drama Downfall directed by Oliver Hirschbiegel. Lara subsequently landed a lead role in Francis Ford Coppola’s Youth Without Youth movie and ever since then Hollywood keeps knocking on her door.

TEXT: TINA AWTANI | PHOTOS: EDITH HELD FOTOGRAFIE BERLIN

Her new movie, The Rush, has just had its world premiere in London and features the world’s greatest sports rivalry ever. Oscarwinning director Ron Howard captures the fierce competition between Austrian Formula One racing legend Niki Lauda and his English rival James Hunt. Both battle it out on and off the track during the 1970s. Based on true events, the movie portrays the spirit and passion of both characters in the form of a high-octane, nail-biting drama. Actor Chris Hemsworth (The Avengers) plays McLaren pilot James Hunt, while Daniel Brühl (Inglourious Basterds) plays Niki Lauda in the Ferrari. Lauda famously stepped back into the cockpit only 42 days after an almost fatal accident, which destroyed his face forever. Alexandra Maria Lara plays the woman at Lauda’s side. Discover Germany interviewed the charming actress, who confessed her fondness for reading the British Guardian, drinkingYorkshire Tea and checking out the occasional cricket result.

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Cover Feature | Alexandra Maria Lara

The Rush is all about the rivalry between Austrian racing legend Niki Lauda and his British colleague James Hunt. What did you find most fascinating about these two characters?

“It is about two outstanding personalities, two men, who couldn’t be more different.

On the one hand it is precisely about these opposite characters, while on the other hand these men couldn’t be more similar in sharing their unrestricted passion for the sport.”

You turned down a role beside Tom Cruise in Valkyrie. Please describe what intrigued you about playing Marlene Knaus, the wife of Niki Lauda.

“I imagine it is extremely difficult to stand by a man who constantly puts himself in danger. How do you bear this? How far back do you have to stand with your own life? That interested me and when I first saw a photo of Marlene I was instantly fascinated by her charisma.”

The movie is set in the 1970s. The exciting atmosphere back then was certainly one of a kind. What was the biggest challenge on the set?

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“Absolutely everything had to be right – Ron Howard really captured the spirit of the 70s and every little complicated detail of the Formula One world. It is about great entertainment, but also a very touching story. Ron did a great job.”

Your portfolio as an actress is diverse, stretching from comedy (Where is Fred) to darker matters (Downfall). What role would like to add in the future?

“I’m very grateful for being offered such a variety of different parts and being able to play them. To be honest I wish that things will continue just as they are.”

You have worked with some of the biggest names in the industry such as Anthony Hopkins, Francis Ford Coppola and Spike Lee any favourite memory?

“With Francis I celebrated my 27th birthday into the early morning hours, Spike Lee thought my sneakers were pretty cool when I arrived for the casting and Anthony Hopkins sent me the most beautiful Christmas card ever. I have a lot of favourite moments!”

You are married to British actor Sam Riley.

What would you describe as typically British and how do the British influence your daily life?

“Reading The Guardian, drinkingYorkshire Tea, looking up the cricket scores. All this slowly became part of our everyday life – and I love it!“ Congratulations! You will shortly be parents.

Your baby will grow up very cosmopolitan, speaking various languages. What values do you wish to impart for his or her future?

“This is a big challenge and things will develop naturally over the years. I think it is most important to give the child love and self-confidence on the way.“ Living in Berlin, do you have a Berlin insider tip to share with our British readers?

“There is so much to see and to explore, but the best drinks are definitely served in the Green Door Bar.”

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Discover Germany | Design | Dedicated to Design

Dedicated to Design...

The German design scene is more vibrant than ever, with an array of new inventions and beautiful objects now available in stores. Check out these award winning and inspiring design pieces that we have fallen in love with this month.

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BY TINA AWTANI

Raw design and sustainability are the key features of this chair made by Kimidori. Created out of recycled shipping pallets and treated with organically cultivated oils the wooden structure is a prime example of striking and environmentally friendly design. £180. www.kimidori.de Strict minimalism, clear geometry and fresh colours define the Madera clock made by Sebastian Herbst. Carefully handcrafted, the warm and natural walnut material is blended with subtle colour splashes to harmoniously fit into any room. £128. www.otono-design.com The Lobbyist Rocker rocking chair from Pliet is a light-weight chair, ideal for any lounge, waiting room or home. Made of sprayed plywood the Lobbyist is available in yellow or grey. Special colours are available on request. £410. www.pliet.com

Between is the name of this tension lamp which cleverly defines a new type of light. It is held taut between floor and ceiling and achieves thanks to its grand gesture a curved connection between lighting and architecture. Between is easily positioned, extremely flexible and needs minimal floor space. £343. www.pliet.com

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The clean and modern design of the Vario indoor and outdoor seat combines uncompromising quality and perfect technical manufacturing. Made of two stackable parts and available in wood, concrete or leather one can play around and mix and match the different models.

From £299. www.otono-design.com

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Fashion Finds September brings the eagerly anticipated Oktoberfest to Munich and all over the world.

Needless to say that Trachten, the traditional costumes, dominate the fashion scene not only in and around the Alpine regions. Hammerschmid, Anton Geiger, KrĂźger-Dirndl, Trachten Deiser or Wenger are just a few examples of great manufacturers. Guys wear the leather pants and some girls do too, but most ladies prefer the Dirndl dress. It comes in traditional or contemporary designs, all sorts of colours and lengths. Beside the fashionable aspect a Dirndl reveals some personal information about its owner: if the bow is tied on the left hand side it means that the lady is single!

BY TINA AWTANI

Dirndl Valerie is another gorgeous creation made by Alpenherz. This luxurious turquoise-coloured silk dirndl with delicate embroidery is a great example of an elegant and contemporary dirndl. ÂŁ772. www.alpenherz.de

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Discover Germany | Design | Fashion Finds

The jacket Servus Toelz by Julia Trentini is great to add a bit of Trachten-feeling to your normal wardrobe. Can be worn with a dirndl, but also looks very smart in combination with skirts or slim trousers. £379. www.juliatrentini.de

Blouse Lilly is the secret behind a beautiful décolleté when wearing a dirndl. Carefully crafted from fine lace this blouse adds a vintage touch to the perfect Wiesn outfit. £169. www.juliatrentini.de

The leather pants are a must-have for all men at the Oktoberfest, but there are pretty pants available for ladies too.

Team with a casual shirt, a cute scarf and add some jewellery for glamour. £114. www.otto.de Accessories such as bags should definitely have the Alpine touch too. This Hohenstaufen bag model goes with many different outfits. Featuring the colours red, green and grey with beautiful stag stitching detail, this bag is a timeless classic. £51 www.otto.de

Dirndl Lilly is made by Alpenherz. Because Sandra Abt and Verena Bub couldn’t find a dirndl they liked, the duo started creating their own very special range and labelled it Alpenherz (alpine heart). Cute and classy the Alpenherz dirndls took the Oktoberfest fashionista’s hearts by storm. £557. www.alpenherz.de

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CJD Braunschweig Boarding School Not the same but the best for everyone Founded in 1977 the high school “Christophorusschule” was the first school in Germany which started an excellence programme to promote highly talented pupils in 1981. From that day on pupils have come from all over Germany to live in the schools boarding house. Since 2004 the CJD Braunschweig additionally operates an International School. Two schools under one roof give pupils a space to find and improve their individual talents.

TEXT: JESSICA HOLZHAUSEN | PHOTOS: CJD BRAUNSCHWEIG

The CJD Braunschweig boarding house – CJD stands for Christliches Jugenddorfwerk Braunschweig e.V., a Christian value based organisation - is a municipal boarding house with about 120 students from two schools.The CJD Braunschweig combines experiential education with a wide range of sport activities.

International School: Respect yourself first The International School Braunschweig-

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Wolfsburg was founded in 2004 and is constantly growing. At the moment 250 students in total from more than 20 nations attend the courses. The school is an “English Only Zone”, giving the opportunity to learn about international culture through the English language.The International School is a private, all-day school, with instruction from 8 am to 4 pm. Not only the student body is multicultural; the dynamic teaching

team come from all over the world to educate face to face.

The International School educates children as early as the age of 4 up to 18+, offering them a motivational learning environment.

All pupils are required to wear school uniforms. Courses are generally in English but the school offers EAL (English as an Additional Language) lessons for new students

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Discover Germany | Feature | The CJD Braunschweig

Spanish, Chinese and German as well. The school has modern facilities, including a football pitch and smart boards in every classroom.

The curriculum is Cambridge certified and checkpoint tests make sure students are learning at a high, internationally comparable standard.The International School offers two degrees: The International General Certificate of Secondary Education (IGCSE) and the International Baccalaureate (IB), which allow students to further their education in Germany or internationally.

Christophorusschule: securing education according to talent and value oriented The second CJD Braunschweig school, the “Christophorusschule” Gymnasium, German for a grammar school, has about 850 pupils in total, starting with form 5. As the first school in Germany promoting highly talented pupils it focuses on the individual promotion of giftedness and support for every pupil. It is an all-day-school open from 7.45 am to 3.30 pm.

The intermediate grades (forms 8 to 10) are divided into optimising classes for pupils, who need more support to develop their talents, and high performance classes for those seeking more challenges than the normal education according to the curriculum could give them.The high performance classes do not only set higher standards but are also distinguished by the pupil’s responsibility for their own education, additional time for projects and competitions to create further challenges. In the lower grades (forms 5 to 6) project classes give help to those who have not yet found a way to develop their talents, creating a structure to improve their working abilities and social competences.

In the last three years before gaining a higher education entrance qualification pupils can choose between competence and excellence courses. who need support for their English skills.

The school offers language instruction in

The competence courses offer the possibility of internships in business or science

and certificates for additional qualifications.

They also allow early studies at the Technical University (TU) Braunschweig or the Ostfalia University of Applied Sciences, starting in grade ten.

The excellence courses offer individual tutorship, counselling for study and job perspectives and help with learning deficits. At the end of the Gymnasium the students will achieve the German Abitur, giving them the opportunity to study at universities.

CJD Braunschweig Boarding House: living diversity The CJD Braunschweig makes it easy to change school and courses according to the childrens needs. About 120 students from both schools, the Christophorusschule and International School Braunschweig -Wolfsburg, live together in the boarding house.

The dormitories are separated into both girls’ and boys’ facilities and further subdivided into smaller living groups to create a family atmosphere. Boarders live in single or double rooms. The structured daily life includes times for study, leisure and planned group activities. The boarding house is a safe place to stay and a home away from home.

The CJD Braunschweig is part of a strong network of eight CJD boarding schools.The head of both Braunschweig schools, Ursula Hellert, advised during the founding process of the International School. She has been working as a pedagogue at and has been headmistress of both schools since 1993. Additionally she works as a pedagogic consultant, advanced trainer and coach. Among others she helped the Boarding School Marienau, Sir Karl Popper School inVienna and the German School in London to develop a curriculum to individually promote students.

This competence and the long experience of teachers and staff make the CJD Braunschweig a place for successful education and learning. www.cjd-braunschweig.de

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Discover Germany | Feature | Zeppelin Museum Friedrichshafen

Flying back in time in the Zeppelin Museum Friedrichshafen The world’s largest collection on the history of airship aviation captivates young and old visitors.

TEXT: DORINA REICHHOLD | PHOTOS: ZEPPELIN MUSEUM FRIEDRICHSHAFEN

Above: Motorgondel

The birthplace of the most famous of all airships, the Zeppelin, can be found in Southern Germany, in the town of Friedrichshafen. Situated on the banks of Lake Constance, it hosts the Zeppelin Museum Friedrichshafen, which is dedicated to the history of Count Zeppelin’s invention.

The museum’s concept is twofold. It showcases the world’s largest collection of airship aviation and it is also Germany’s only major museum that combines technology and art. Dr Ursula Zeller, managing director of the museum explains this: "Technical developments such as airships are, just like art, achievements of the greatest creativity.That is what we want to show in the museum."

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The museum’s technology collection with its many original exhibits, models, and photos gives an insight into the rich history of airship aviation. The centrepiece of the technology collection is the 33 metres long, authentic reproduction of the cabins of the airship LZ 129 Hindenburg.The airship became famous when it was destroyed by fire in 1937 while landing in Lakehurst, New Jersey.The replica is authentically furnished and lets visitors experience the atmosphere of crossing the Atlantic in an airship in the 1930s.The replica of the cabins is also the favourite exhibit of Dr Zeller: "It is unique! Nowhere else in the world can people experience what it felt like to be a passenger on board a luxury liner airship of the 1930s, only in the Zeppelin Museum Friedrichshafen." The museum truly is a memorable experience for all kinds of visitors. A newly-opened exhibition space is dedicated to understanding the physics

behind aviation technology. Films, a 3D Show and multimedia devices enhance the experience and understanding of airship history and many exhibits are especially developed in order to appeal to children.

Mock-up Zeppelins lift the visitors up to the second floor, where the museum’s art collection is exhibited. Displaying works from five centuries, an important part of the collection are the works of artists whose work was ostracised as degenerate art by the Nazis. One of these artists is the painter Otto Dix, who sought refuge on the shores of Lake Constance. His works under one roof with the world-changing inventions of Count Zeppelin is what the Zeppelin Museum Friedrichshafen is all about, celebrating human creativity. www.zeppelin-museum.de

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The Scandinavia Show is the only UK show dedicated exclusively to showcase the best of Denmark, Sweden, Norway, Finland and Iceland.

The show incorporates Scandinavian design, travel, lifestyle, fashion, culture, music and food and all our exhibitors have well-stocked stalls – everything can be purchased at The Scandinavia Show.

DESIGN & LIFESTYLE If you love the bright and airy Scandinavian design, then The Scandinavia Show will be a can’t-miss event. The show will exhibit everything from top-end furniture, lighting, fabrics, carpets, interior design items, designer clothes and footwear, to timeless classics that will always embody the simple, yet stylish Scandinavian disposition.

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German sausages conquer London What Frankfurters and Viennese (yes, pun intended!) have appreciated for centuries is quietly catching on in London: the humble German sausage. Across London, Bratwurst, Currywurst, Leberkäs and Co are capturing hearts and palates – helped along by homesick German expats.

TEXT: ANNE KREBIEHL | PHOTOS: JONATHAN BANKS

It all started with Kurz & Lang at St. John Street, a small sausage counter suitably located just opposite Smithfield Market, London’s oldest wholesale meat market. The scent of Sauerkraut and smoked sausage greets you as a whole range of sausages sizzles on the grill. Managing director Valentin von Amsberg, an ex-banker, created Kurz & Lang in 2006. “The idea was to

16 | Issue 7 | September 2013

try and fill a market gap, to offer an alternative to a sandwich,”he explains. In terms of German sausages, grilled on site, he was the pioneer: “We were the first to offer high-quality hot food on the go,” he says, emphasising that German sausages are made from high-quality meat, rather than the off-cuts that often go into sub-standard sausages. His bestseller is the classic

Bratwurst, served, just as in Germany, in a roll or with a side of potatoes and sauerkraut and the obligatory Senf – or mustard – to take away. But he also offers a 100% beef version for non-pork eaters and a ‘gourmet’edition. While the British banger – which differs completely in texture, flavour and composition – is usually confined to breakfast or hidden inside a‘toad-

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Discover Germany | Dine & Wine | Anne Krebiehl Column

sliced from a big oven-baked square loaf of sausage. “Leberkäs took some explaining but now we have a lot of regulars,”laughs Azadeh.

in-the-hole’ weekday-supper, across Germany sausages have been a staple snack for decades with dedicated stalls in every town, notwithstanding regional sausage variations. Initially, von Amsberg was not sure if his idea would float, but then football coincided and, all of a sudden, all things German were cool: “That’s the great thing about London: people are really happy to try something new and therefore the reception was 100% positive! But the World Cup 2006 really helped!”

Around the same time in Brighton, German photography student Azadeh Falakshahi

missed her beloved German sausages.

When she moved here with her boyfriend Florian Frey from the Black Forest, the pair stocked up at home and treated their English friends to the real thing. Then followed an invitation to cater at a festival, the sausages were put on the menu at a local pub and out of this, the ironic ‘Herman ze German’was born which opened its doors in London’s Villiers Street in 2010. “People just loved it,”enthuses Asadeh. “Our logo makes it work: we laugh about the Germans ourselves, we take the cliché and make fun of it.” In July their second London location opened in Soho where Berlinsavvy clubbers love the Currywurst, a grilled Bratwurst covered in tomato sauce and curry powder. They recognise it from their trip to the German capital. “It’s our speciality,”explains Azadeh,“we’ve worked on the sauce for such a long time, obviously the Berlin-thing helps!” Herman ze German is also the only one to offer Leberkäs,

In the heart of London’s City, on Cornhill, The Wurst Club Ltd, is doing a brisk lunchtime trade. German ship broker Torben Bedau whose office is just around the corner is a regular: “I come here quite often,” he confesses,“the food really reminds me of home.” His personal favourite is Currywurst. After work, he also likes to bring colleagues here who not only appreciate the sausages but also the German beers that are served alongside them.

Nathan Bainton who is serving behind the counter today attests that the Wurst Club has quite a number of German regulars and is popular with surprised German tourists, too. The English are open to grilled sausages but a little careful when it comes to sauerkraut, but once they try the traditional pickled cabbage, they are won over: “They love that we actually sell sauerkraut, and the combination of flavours with the sausage is ideal,”he beams. The Wurst Club is the brain child of André Stubbs, a halfGerman, and German sausage-bar supremo Peter Romanof. Opened in January 2013, the idea was to re-introduce some hearty fare into the increasingly sushi and salad-dominated City lunch options.

Kurz & Lang, Herman ze German and The Wurst Club all import their sausages from small specialist butchers in Germany for original taste and superior quality. A lot of thought goes into the sausage seasonings, tailor-made sauces and condiments. Other German treats are also on offer: numerous beers of course, pretzels as well as sweet treats like doughnuts. Herman ze German even offers the Teutonic cult soft drink Fritz Limo. All of them have expansion plans and are scouting for more locations. Looks like the sausages are here to stay! Lang lebe die Wurst! www.kurzandlang.com www.herman-ze-german.co.uk www.the-wurst-club.co.uk

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Restaurant of the Month Germany

Excellent wine and gourmet dishes in a historical ambience

Restaurant Sèvres in Frankfurt The hotel restaurant Sèvres in Frankfurt is a place for gourmets: Fresh local products are the bases for national and international dishes, many of them made with fresh domestic fruit. Wine lovers will find a wide selection of wines from the in-house vineyard “Prinz von Hessen”.

TEXT: JESSICA HOLZHAUSEN | PHOTOS: RESTAURANT SÈVRES

The restaurant gained its name from a gift of the emperor Napoleon: The Sèvres porcelain of one of Europe’s most important manufactures is exhibited in the restaurant and creates a unique atmosphere for dinner or lunch.

therefore integrate them in nearly every dish, an ensemble accompanying the main courses.” A veal tenderloin for example is accompanied by papaya-tomato vegetables, the saddle of venison by salad and balsamic cherries.

Fresh and local products guarantee the food’s good quality or as chef Marco Wenninger puts it:“We choose the products to use in the kitchen from small and local distributers and producers, not only to persuade our customers with good quality products but also to give them a good time in our restaurant.”

The restaurant has space for 40 people and a very personal service: the guests are served personally at their tables by the maître of the house, who has been working

The restaurant has a wide range, from an indulgent three-course meal to a Champagne breakfast buffet. Chef Marco Wenninger explains:“We have some highlights on our menu but one thing I like to distinguish: we work a lot with domestic fruit and

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in the hotel for over 35 years.The wellbeing of the guests is the main aim of the restaurant Sèvres, as chef Marco Wenninger emphasizes as well.“In our restaurant guests should be able to relax after a stressful day or at the weekend with good food and good wine from our own vineyard,”he says.

“We want to give our guests an opportunity to reduce the speed of every day life, so that they are able to enjoy a great table culture again.” In the summer this includes sitting outside on the restaurant’s terrace.

For their good service the restaurant Sèvres was awarded the European Hospitality Award in 2012 for having the "Best Service in a European Hotel". www.hessischer-hof.de

Chef Marco Wenninger

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Discover Germany | Special Theme | Wellness & Spa Switzerland

Special Theme

Wellness & Spa Switzerland

Welcome to Switzerland – a spa heaven The label is a promise: a “Swiss Wellness Hotel” guarantees a comprehensive programme for guests’ physical, spiritual and mental wellbeing. As well as a variety of spa facilities and individual treatments, each venue emphasises healthy cuisine and active relaxation in nature.

TEXT & PHOTOS: SWITZERLAND TOURISM

Health is the greatest of blessings, and the key to this precious asset lies chiefly in our own hands. Through a range of recognised methods we can actively guard against illness – and, with newly won energy, slow down the ageing process. This preventionbased approach lies at the heart of the Swiss Wellness Hotels’ philosophy. The concept rests on four elements: relaxation, movement, nutrition and outdoor wellness.

And in order to keep offering guests the very best, the hotels invest continuously in modern facilities, inspiring surroundings and well-trained staff.

Sparkling mountain lakes, cascading streams, forests, alpine meadows, invigorating fresh air: nothing influences our wellbeing as much as nature. And Switzerland is full of it.

Soak up the inspiring mountain scenery, let your soul breathe, and treat your body well: that’s Wellness in the mountain air.

In Switzerland it’s never far from a ski piste to the next thermal baths, or from a footpath

to a refreshing mountain lake – and there are plenty of other locations where you can recharge your batteries, too. Aside from the Wellness Hotels, with their sensuous spas and panoramic pools, every corner of Switzerland has somewhere to energise you.

Soak in an open-air whirlpool bath 3,000 metres up, follow a pretty hydrotherapy trail through mountain meadows, or walk a moorland trail springy as a mattress. Each region has its own authentic specialities – in its bathing traditions as much as its cuisine.

In Switzerland, the path to happiness need never be long. Come to Engadin Scuol, Leukerbad, Weggis Vitznau Rigi, Gstaad, Baden, Bad Zurzach or Charmey, and you enter a world of harmony and relaxation.

Set among inspiring landscapes, these seven Wellness Destinations exude peace and tranquillity. Rivers and lakes promise refreshment, car-free zones and parks invite you to stroll, fragrant forests tempt you to hike, and delightfully varied bike trails encourage you to stretch your muscles.

www. MySwitzerland.com

All images: New Mineralbad - Rigi Kaltbad

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Relax in a thermal spa resort praised by Goethe and Thomas Cook Leukerbad welcomes visitors from all over the world to enjoy its alpine beauty and refreshing thermal baths. Situated in southwestern Switzerland, in the heart of the breathtaking Valais mountain landscape, Leukerbad is the largest thermal spa and wellness resort in the Alps.

TEXT: DORINA REICHHOLDT | PHOTOS: LEUKERBAD TOURISM

The resort offers relaxing and fun holidays for people who like to be active, as well as for visitors who like to spend quality time with their family. Visitors can choose between different outdoor sports all year long, take a ropeway to enjoy the alpine landscape or experience one of several cultural events taking place throughout the year.

28 hotels and guesthouses as well as 1,700 holiday apartments offer accommodation and a camping ground is available in which the grand alpine scenery and nature can be enjoyed even more closely.

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The main attraction in Leukerbad is the thermal baths, which offer refreshing relaxation for visitors and contain a lot of healing mineral substances.

The thermal water sources were already known during Roman times and have attracted a lot of notable visitors to Leukerbad, such as Mark Twain, Lenin and Picasso. The British travel-pioneer Thomas Cook admired the picturesque landscape of Leukerbad which he visited in 1863: "The beauty is fascinating, the colourful flowers

on the mountain pastures, the wildlife and the grazing cows’ gentle tinkling." Cook

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Discover Germany | Special Theme | Wellness & Spa Switzerland

went on about the challenge of crossing the Gemmi Pass at a height of 2,350 metres above sea level but states that: "the strains are forgotten quickly in the thermal baths and the pain is eased."

The water’s health benefits were also praised by poet Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, who visited Leukerbad in 1779 on his Italian Journey: "It is, when it comes out of the earth, very hot and famous for its great powers." There are 65 thermal water sources in total which release 3.9m litres a day, making it the most voluminous reserve of thermal water in Europe. The water is rich in different minerals and has a temperature of up to 51 centigrade. It flows subterraneanly through the rocks for more

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than 40 years, enriching itself with minerals on its way.The water in Leukerbad is especially rich in calcium sulphate, which helps to ease rheumatism and accident sequelae. Visitors can get information about the healing qualities of the thermal waters on the Thermal Canyon Walk, a path that leads 600 metres into the Dala gorge to an impressive waterfall, 35 metres deep and lets visitors experience the force of water at close range.

There are four great public baths in Leukerbad and several spa hotels with privately owned thermal baths, all offering a wide range of treatments to their visitors, from classical spa to Ayurveda with a fantastic view of the impressive surrounding mountains. One noticeable event of the public bath Walliser Alpentherme & Spa Leukerbad is the monthly Roman-Irish Night, in which visitors will be greeted by the ‘Imperator’, dressed in a tunic, enjoy an authentic Roman buffet accompanied by traditional music and experience the Roman nude bathing tradition. Other offers are moonlight bathing and the 300 square metre Valaisian sauna village, incorporating,

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for example, a rustic farmhouse and a stone mill. The public Leukerbad Therme is the largest alpine thermal spa and stages Aqua Mystica once a month during autumn and winter, in which steam, light effects and music stimulate all the senses.

In addition to the thermal baths, there are plenty of outdoor activities available for visitors to enjoy the mountain landscape. In the summer, there are more than 200 km of hiking trails, plenty of space to enjoy unspoilt nature and wildlife. Mountaineering, mountain-biking, swimming, golf, mini- & disc-golf, tennis and paragliding are further options to explore the outdoors. In winter, the Alps are the most perfect setting for all kinds of winter sports. Leukerbad offers 50 km of ski trails, as well as a whole range of different winter sport opportunities such as snow hiking, sledging and snowboarding.Two ropeways, the GemmiBahn and the Torrent-Bahn will take visitors through two different but equally amazing alpine landscapes. A cultural highlight of the region is the International Literature Festival which takes place every July. Other events that showcase regional Swiss culture

are the Wine Weeks in August and September, in which Valais wine is presented and tasted and the folkloristic event of the Eringer Cow Fight in March and August, a cow fight in which the cow“queens”fight for the title“Queen of Queens”. Whatever the choice, all daily activities in Leukerbad are best finished off with a relaxing visit to a thermal bath to be refreshed for the next day. Just as Goethe did. www.leukerbad.ch

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Special Theme | Wellness & Spa Switzerland

the summer, Bogn Sedrun will help you forget everyday stress, recharge energy and find your inner self. It will make your stay unforgettable – and more. bognsedrun.ch - Entrance to the spa and wellness area is open to adults aged 16 or over - Adult Ticket Wellness Combi: 31.00 CHF - Adult Ticket Adventure Pool: 9.50 CHF - Child Ticket Adventure Pool (from 6 years): 6.00 CHF

Oasis at the source of the Rhine If you are looking for relaxation and recovery from everyday life, the Wellness Spa and Adventure Pool Bogn Sedrun is just the right place for you. In its world of warmth, water and light you can recharge energy for both body and mind.

TEXT: LYDIA EVERS | PHOTOS: BOGN SEDRUN

The little town of Sedrun, situated around 130 kilometres south of Zurich in the Swiss Canton of Graubünden, and its surroundings are a popular vacation spot.

During the winter visitors can admire a wonderful snowy landscape, in the summer the region impresses through its stunning panoramic view of the Alps.

Right in the middle of this natural idyll lies the ultimate relaxation oasis: the Wellness Spa and Adventure Pool Bogn Sedrun. Here visitors find harmony for the senses, indulgence for body and mind as well as adventure and culinary delicacies for the whole family.

In the atmospheric Roman bath guests can enjoy soothing steam and water baths surrounded by gentle illumination and pleasantly fragrant herbal essences. By alternating between heat and refreshing cool, the sauna strengthens the immune system whilst the outdoor footbath, in the style approved by therapist Sebastian Kneipp,

stimulates the circulation. To completely leave tension and stress behind Bogn Sedrun offers a great range of massages from classic full and partial-body massages to foot reflexology, lymphatic drainage and many other programmes. In the solarium, guests can finish their wellness-treatment with the perfect combination of warmth and light, soak up the sun in any weather and give their complexion an attractive tan.

Those who are more looking for fun and sporting activities will enjoy the Bogn Sedrun water park. The 25-metre-long adventure pool, the wild water rapids and the massage waterfall are certain to please every water lover, especially the younger ones. In warm weather the outdoor lawn offers plenty of space to relax in addition to a beach volleyball court. In a cosy atmosphere the restaurant serves culinary delicacies from small snacks to healthy meals.

Whether you want to enjoy Sedrun’s winter wonderland or come for a hiking tour in

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Fitness-Partner AG Saunas from Switzerland With true passion and a flair for quality, the Swiss family business Fitness-Partner AG present their clients with tailor-made sauna and spa constructions. Their success is based on 40 years of experience and a pithy formula: “Only a Swiss knows what a Swiss wants.”

TEXT: FRANZISKA NÖSSIG | PHOTOS: FITNESS-PARTNER AG

Despite manager Raphael Bruderer’s statement, even Swiss customers’ queries vary significantly, ranging from the demand for certain materials to questions about layout, design and control. Still, his small business will confidently attend to every single aspect of the sauna building business.

From consulting to constructing, mounting and maintaining, all tasks and services are carried out by the small yet devoted team of just 12 members of staff. The company’s compact size produces a lack of tedious hierarchical protocol so it quickly adapts and adjusts its production to sudden changes and demands, Raphael Bruderer

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emphasises. He adds,“We are thus able to offer our services at a competitive price.”

Fitness-Partner AG produces around 100 saunas and 40 steam baths each year as well as a variety of other spa equipment including infrared and salt cabins. Currently, private client orders account for roughly 80 per cent of the company’s production output while requests from the business sector take up around 20 per cent. With over 5,000 customers, the clientele is constantly growing and changing. Still, Fitness-Partner AG does have its regulars who will order again and again, amongst them many architecs and building companies. Based in Heiden

in the north eastern canton of Appenzell bordering Germany, the company operates mainly in the German speaking part of Switzerland. Moreover, it delivers to customers in the central and southern parts of the country and has also sold to spas abroad, for example to the five-star hotel Hertelendy Castle in Hungary and to private clients in Northern Italy.

The current firm basically resulted from family tensions in its predecessor Finnmark-Sauna Möckli AG in 1969. Had it not been for a disagreement between the company owner and his son, the Swiss might have had to wait much longer for their

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Discover Germany | Special Theme | Wellness & Spa Switzerland

Left: Saunas Bottom: Steam Rooms

warm relaxation moments. Möckli’s son had been very keen on joining his dad’s kitchen building business but his father, by the way a devoted sauna enthusiast, didn’t think he had the ability. Möckli senior’s harsh rejection, however, actually fuelled his son’s imagination and ambition. In-

spired by his dad’s private outdoor sauna, he decided to prove his capability by building – saunas.

is part of everyday life, so we’ll put our hearts and minds to each of our constructions to turn them into quality pieces.”

While Möckli senior kept building kitchens, his son began pioneering in the health business and thus developed his very own, independent sauna manufacturing business. In 1971, Raphael Bruderer’s father joined, and took over the firm ten years later. Initially, he and Möckli junior had to explain more than once why deliberate sweating in a wooden box and inhaling steam evaporating from sizzling stones was considered beneficial for the body. Their powers of persuasion were supported not least by the Swiss climate as they would originally present their saunas at the virtually open-air trade fair OLMA in snowclad St. Gallen. It probably goes without saying that the heated wooden cubicles proved to be an unexpected, yet welcome novelty.

Today, the slow-growing and delicate types of wood suitable for building saunas still only originate in Scandinavia and Canada and have to be imported. But wherever else possible, Fitness-Partner AG will rely on regional products and contacts and thus support their domestic economy. For example, the controlling system for the sauna booths was developed with the company’s local electronics partner of many years.

“Our small Swiss team understands and thus fully satisfies its countrymen’s high standards, their need for impeccable quality and love for the tiniest detail,”Bruderer underlines.

Supplying the then start-up business directly with all the materials needed, the Finns themselves were thrilled that their centuries-old tradition was being taken up

by Swiss enthusiasts, Ralph Bruderer reports. He and his brother both grew up with regular sauna turns and a general sense of wellbeing. He says,“For us, a sauna

The manager suggests that today we live in a so-called age of wellness. He elaborates: “The term is being used everywhere and for everything, be it toothbrushes, shoes or beds for your health and wellbeing. Personally, for my brother and I, ‘wellness’ means to feel comfortable and safe.To have a place of retreat and to treat yourself. The art of living well is something you can’t buy – you simply have to live it.” www.fitness-partner.ch

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Alpine Charm at its finest There are some places where you simply want to hide away, take all the time in the world and enjoy life to the fullest. The beautiful four-star Bergspa Hotel La Val in the little Swiss mountain village Brigels is certainly one of them – whether for a romantic weekend, a wellness vacation or a business occasion.

TEXT: LYDIA EVERS | PHOTOS: HOTEL LA VAL

Since its opening in December 2010 the Bergspa Hotel La Val has enchanted both locals and foreigners equally. At 1,300 metres above sea level in the heart of Surselva, Switzerland, guests can chose between 32 tastefully designed rooms and suites, relax in the hotel’s mountain spa or enjoy culinary delicacies in two restaurants.

In 2012 the SonntagsZeitung elected the Bergspa Hotel La Val as one of the top five four-star winter hotels in Switzerland.

Ambience of the Alps By the use of local wood and stone as well as rustic and authentic decorations LaVal’s design reflects everything this beautiful region has to offer. With an incredible attention to detail the directors Susan and Chris Faber successfully combine traditional values and alpine modernity throughout the entire hotel, resulting in the very distinctive “Chalet Chic”-design, which is both cosy and stylish.

Relaxation oasis, culinary pleasures and outdoor fun In the La Val’s mountain spa and wellness complex guests can relax and recuperate: A Finnish and herbal sauna, hydro-massage showers, two steam baths and a wellness

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pool with integrated whirlpool cover an area of more than 500 square metres. Selected treatments such as massage, facial and body care further ensure ultimate relaxation. The spa won the Senses Award 2012 in the category“Best Alpine Spa”.

The hotel’s Bistro da Rubi offers fine snacks and refreshing drinks, while the restaurant “Ustria Miracla”, which was awarded 14 points by Gault-Millaut in 2013, serves exquisite Mediterranean and traditional delicacies. In the luxurious“Furnascha”smokers’ lounge, connoisseurs can enjoy fine tobacco products from all over the world (including the hotel’s very own LaVal cigar) in a cosy ambience.

Brigels is one of the places with the longest hours of sunshine in Switzerland and is known for numerous outdoor activities.

During the winter the region shines through its number one skiing slope. In the summer visitors can admire the golfing idyll on the Brigels panorama plateau with a breath-taking view of the Grisons Alps or simply enjoy the fresh air on hiking and climbing tours. www.laval.ch

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Special Theme | Made in Germany

Special Theme

Made in Germany

Made in Germany – The secret of success Products made in Germany are world-famous and globally high in demand. Adidas, Audi, Mercedes, Miele and Siemens are prime examples of top brands carrying the iconic quality seal. But what is the secret behind quality made in Germany?

TEXT: TINA AWTANI

Taking a closer look at German goods and the way they are developed and manufactured leads to the identification of two key factors that determine the success of these products.“The competitiveness of the German economy is decisively characterized by the development of innovative and resource-efficient products,” the German Chamber of Commerce (DIHK - Deutsche Industrie- und Handelskammer) states.The constant quest for the perfect product and the never ending search for improvement are deeply rooted in the German entrepreneurial spirit. Rising energy costs and an above-average environmental awareness have resulted in the focus on sustainability.

But apart from constantly striving to improve a product’s quality and finding more sustainable solutions , a third factor plays a vital role in securing a successful economy.

“For German companies, education and training are among the most important qualities of skilled employees. Companies

provide training because they want to ensure the supply of skilled employees for tomorrow. In an international comparison, the dual system is the most successful model for the integration of young people in the employment market,”says the DIHK. German companies, especially the Mittelstand, invest a high amount of resources in the training of tomorrow’s skilled workforce. Most professions have to be learned from scratch usually in form of a three long and year well organised apprenticeship.

During this time the young employee is fully trained on site, while he also has to attend a profession-related academic course during the apprenticeship period. Examinations have to be mastered, in theory and in practice, before the apprentice finally receives his certification by the DIHK. This system ensures that young people are prepared thoroughly for their integration in the job market and in the long-term a strong and qualified workforce is provided.

Top left: Training in the MedTech-Industry. © obs BV Med Bundesverband Medizintechnologie Top right: Young Volkswagen apprentices at work. © obs-VW Volkswagen AG

Made in Germany is not a myth: it is the result of painstaking research, the focus on sustainability and securing a highly skilled workforce for the future.

Discover Germany presents some outstanding manufacturers of goods made in Germany, extending from one of the finest watch makers to the leading manufacturer of snowboards.

Below: Dr. Eric Schweitzer, President German Chamber of Commerce. © DIHK / Thomas Kierok

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Left: NOMOS watchmakers at work Below: In the NOMOS workshops: mounting the three-quarter plate

NOMOS Glashütte Where traditional craftmanship meets timeless design TEXT & PHOTOS: NOMOS GLASHÜTTE

NOMOS Glashütte crafts wristwatches which are both the best instruments and an honour for the wrist. As important as the Glashütte movement ticking in them, as important as all the elaborate manufacturing work NOMOS does – that’s how important the design of these watches is: the form, along with outstanding descent, traditional craftsmanship, and high tech, is what makes quality visible in a NOMOS Glashütte watch.Timeless and yet contemporary, well thought through down to the smallest detail, suitable for Sundays, Mondays, summer and winter, at the office and at the beach: that’s what this manufacturer in the famous watchmaking Mecca near Dresden stands for.

The production division at NOMOS Glashütte makes the components for the in-house built NOMOS calibers. Research and development, construction, milling shop, lathe shop, and surface treatment are

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the most important units, all in the former Glashütte train station, the headquarters of NOMOS Glashütte. From the train station, these parts then make their way to the watchmaker’s tables in what’s called the chronometry – the section of NOMOS in Glashütte where watchmakers build whole calibers from individual parts, the accuracy of their rate regulated in six positions. After the elaborate processes of assembly, adjustment, and testing, the calibers receive dials, hands, cases, and watchstraps – everything that turns movements into watches.

one of the things that the watchmakers and employees in production in Glashütte have in common with the manufacturer’s designers, who have worked in Berlin, Germany’s art and design capital, since 2002.

NOMOS Glashütte builds eight different watch families – the design classics Tangente, Tangomat, Orion, Ludwig, and Tetra, the Club and Zürich models, as well as the Ahoi model since 2013. Every model, most of them unisex, are available in a number of variants – technically in terms of different calibers and functions, and also in terms of design with diverse typographies, indexes, materials, colours, and cases. In mechanics and in design, at NOMOS Glashütte, form follows function.The watches are made to be useful, but also elegant companions which are still interesting at second and third glance, without pushing themselves into the foreground, without wearing thin. Only designs and developments that meet this standard can claim the title NOMOS Glashütte – and the more than 100 prizes and awards that watches with this trademark have won in the last decade alone confirm this rule. www.nomos-glashuette.com

The design of these trappings is no less involved than the interior life: as with the movement, so too with a watch’s externalities: a tenth or hundredth of a millimetre can make a difference. Aesthetics depends on tiny things, too. The smaller the space, the greater the effort: that’s the law.The effort expended is inversely proportional to the size of the surface designed. And this is

Below: NOMOS headquarters overlooking the train platform

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Discover Germany | Special Theme | Made in Germany

For frequent fliers, globetrotters, people in long-distance relationships – and for those who love things reduced and simple: Tangomat GMT from NOMOS Glashßtte distinguishes the time zones on the basis of airport codes.

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Sustainability in Steel

Richard Henkel GmbH Ever thought of a spa as an inspirational backdrop? Well, neither did company owner Richard Henkel when treated for a heart attack in Baden-Baden back in 1947. Dissatisfied with the lack of reclining facilities at the very place where he was supposed to recover, ideas formulated on how to rectify this. On leaving the spa, Henkel already had a new type of seat – a lounger – in mind. It proved to be the corner stone for Richard Henkel GmbH’s two new business domains: tubular steel furniture and surface engineering.

TEXT: FRANZISKA NÖSSIG | PHOTOS: RICHARD HENKEL GMBH

“We excel in the production of furniture for the top end of the spa and ‘wellness’ market, and manufacture everything from deckchairs to bar tables ourselves,”says Susanne Henkel who now heads the medium sized family business in its third generation.

Richard Henkel GmbH (Richard Henkel Ltd) also stands out in the field of surface technology, applying their expertise to the aviation and car industries.

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Based in the small town of ForchtenbergErnsbach in northern Baden-Wuerttemberg, the company delivers furniture to private clients as well as hotels, saunas and large public swimming pools all over Europe. The loungers’ back-friendly seats are hand-braided with durable plastic cord which stretches tightly over a tubular steel frame, creating a uniquely taut yet elastic surface. “No machine, only the human

hand will know how to achieve this, which is why we still manufacture every single lounger today,” Henkel stresses. After all, it is functionality and not design that comes first.

The original 1949 Gesundheitsliege, now with a modern makeover, is still an absolute classic, the manager points out. It is a chair-lounger especially developed for

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Discover Germany | Special Theme | Made in Germany

Main image: Relax Loungers Left, from top down: Sunloungers Sunpur Tuttlingen; Oceanside; The plastic twining comes in a variety of fashionable colours, such as apricot & burgundy.

Her company’s corporate philosophy is founded on the core principles of producing only the highest quality, and replacing parts whenever required. The firm’s credo still holds today: Why discard a top of the range product with minor flaws if it can be repaired? Susanne Henkel states with conviction, “This benefits both our environment and our clients’ pockets.”Nowadays, this is called ‘sustainability’, but the company’s outlook existed long before the term was ever coined, the manager stresses. So instead of just quoting the buzzword of the hour, Richard Henkel GmbH puts it in action, offering lifelong and Europe-wide customer support as well as interim repairs for competitors’products. Additionally, they adapted their range three years ago for the demands of the mature market by introducing furniture with height adjustability.

process is as crucial to the firm as increasing their customers’environmental awareness.“We go that extra mile to research our resources’ provenance and methods of attainment.” About 90 per cent come from Germany while fabrics, for instance, derive from Italy. Regarding sustainable wood, the company only uses the European variety of Black Locust tree, indigenous to France, Northern Italy and the Czech Republic.

On the subject of reclining furniture Susanne Henkel closes by saying that private clients particularly like purchasing directly at the company’s premises. “Having experienced our products on holiday or while spending time at a German-style Kur, convalescing and relaxing, they don’t want to forgo that comfort at home. Nothing else will do.” www.richard-henkel.de

customers wishing to live more healthily or in need of extra comfort because of their age, with demand for the ‘stainless steel’ model growing considerably.

“More and more customers choose this high-quality, durable and visually pleasant option.” The plastic twining comes in a variety of fashionable colours. Currently, soft shades of warm burgundy or unobtrusive, translucent grey such as Ice are bestsellers. “Of course, we offer a select range of colours to companies who want our furniture to match their corporate identity,” Henkel adds.

Founded in 1922, the Richard Henkel GmbH originally manufactured burlap sacks and almost simultaneously began steel production. In 1949, Susanne Henkel’s grandfather presented his prototype health chair-lounger and, Henkel adds, in terms of comfort and hygiene it has remained unrivalled.

Below: Steel Lounger

She stresses that caring for the environment has always been a priority of the company. Thus, historically, they galvanized their steel frames instead of using wasteful liquid protective coatings. Nowadays, the method of powder-coating is solely employed, and has been since Richard Henkel GmbH built one of Germany’s first facilities in 1973.

All substances and processing techniques utilised at the firm are chosen according to their impact on the environment, as well as their longevity and the ease with which they are recycled and maintained. “We know every component part and will only consider environmentally friendly elements in the mix,” Susanne Henkel stresses. As their focus is on energy and material efficiency, managing a ‘no waste’ production

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Photo: Heiko Loffler

30 years of passion, performance and perseverance

Pogo boards are made to last On 19 October Joachim März and Martin Sammet will celebrate the 30th anniversary of what started as the dream of two young and sporty lads. Inspired by American surfers the two enterpreneurs wanted to create boards they could use to surf down the snow-capped mountains in their home country.

TEXT: TINA AWTANI | PHOTOS: POGO

The newly introduced snowboards made in Germany soon attracted international interest and it didn’t take long for the duo to realise that they had struck gold. Today the Pogo product range includes snowboards, longboards, ski and accessories, all combined with an outstanding customer service as many boards come with a life-time guarantee. Pogo boards may appear pricy, but taking a closer look at the workshop explains why a Pogo board is a good investment. The factory is still located in the original old barn in the picturesque town of Löwenstein near Stuttgart. Here every single board is painstakingly handcrafted from the finest materials, responsibly sourced.

Every single board leaving the workshop is absolutely unique and a piece of art. Latest technology and traditional craftsmanship are blended to create cutting-edge boards that leave no room for desire. Research and

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development are key, so every product is tested over and over to identify opportunities for improvement. “Our clients are often doctors, dentists, businessmen, lawyers or teachers – rather those with a higher income; or those people who live in the mountain regions and who use the boards a lot, for them it is well worth to invest in high quality material,”Martin explains. Performance aside, the Pogo design aspect is remarkable with ever new creative ideas turned into reality. The RoadKill 95 downhill freeride longboard just scooped an honourable mention at the Red Dot Design Awards 2013 and the jury stated: “The longboard’s striking features are the sophisticated lines of the design and its high material quality.”Even after 30 years Pogo doesn’t fail to impress with ever new creations, sophisticated designs and unrivalled product quality.

Pogo also operates the oldest and largest longboard shop in Europe, where an impressive range of great brands and products is available to order online. www.pogo.biz www.longboardshop.eu

Above right: Road Kill 96 - Red Dot Design Award Below: Board La Grave Mars 2013. Photo: Jörgen Karström

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Special Theme | Made in Germany

call system, which automatically recognises accident situations and sends the coordinates to a rescue centre. This adds lifesaving minutes to the rescue chain.”

Cutting edge technology made in Germany!

Premium helmet manufacturer Schuberth has continuously revolutionized head protection systems and today exports helmets to more than 50 countries. Because quality saves lives!

TEXT: MARILENA STRACKE | PHOTOS: PRESS IMAGES

The corporate philosophy of the Magdeburg-based manufactory can be summarized as strict quality control. The brand stands for maximum safety and optimum comfort. German engineering at its best with technical skill and precision!

Aside from motorcycling helmets the company’s range includes working and industrial helmets as well as fire-fighter’s, police and military helmets. Schuberth has developed almost all innovations on the motor-

cycling market since the 1970s. It is home to the first integral helmet made of glass-fibre, the first one with a sun-visor and the first flip-up helmet as well as today’s smallest, lightest and quietest flip-up helmet in the world! The list of ground-breaking inventions seems endless as communications manager Marc-Thorsten Lenze adds: “In 2010 Schuberth produced the world’s first fully integrated Bluetooth-based communication system followed by the first automatic GPS- and GSM-based emergency-

The company is also the exclusive development partner of the Scuderia Ferrari. Lenze explains: “Since 2000 Schuberth develops and produces special carbon helmets to equip Formula 1 pilots. In the current season German pilots Nico Rosberg, Nico Hülkenberg, the two Ferarri-pilots Fernando Alonso and Felipe Massa, as well as French F1-rookie Jules Bianchi wear Schuberth helmets.” World record champion Michael Schumacher plays a major role too:“He has not only trusted in Schuberth since 2001, but also works closely with our engineers and acts as an ambassador. Many innovations go back to Schumacher’s suggestions.” Most of the manufacturing work is still done manually because of complicated shapes and the number of in- and outputs. There is absolutely no place for error when it comes to safety helmets.“The transfer of technology is particularly important. Valuable knowledge gained from the Formula 1 production is also used in other sectors and vice versa,” Lenze adds.

The Schuberth group is expanding rapidly outside Germany. Success abroad is guaranteed by the strong commitment to the German location.“The term Made in Germany is an important international seal of quality,”says Lenze.“It stands for sophisticated German engineering and top-notch workmanship.”

Schuberth has been paving the way of progress in the past and will certainly continue doing so in the future. www.schuberth.com/en

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Below: Rommelsbacher today Under: Rommelsbacher in 1974

Switch on success Rommelsbacher’s electrical appliances are the epitome of German Mittelstand quality. The Bavarian company has a longstanding reputation of being among market leaders in its field and while drawing on its own expertise, it continues to be innovative and geared towards success.

TEXT: ELISABETH DOEHNE | PHOTOS: ROMMELSBACHER

“Our family-run business stands for reliability, elegant design and timeless functionality,” says the management.The company is based in Dinkelsbühl, a small town in the SouthGerman part of Franconia. It is here that Rommelsbacher was founded in 1928 and re-invented for modern times. The historic town of Dinkelsbühl is located along the enchanting “Romantische Straße” (Romantic Road) that leads from Würzburg to Füssen and attracts tourists from all over the world.

“Made in Germany” is more than an abstraction and has become engrained in their own philosophy, as they feel“very committed to Germany as a production site.”

This inspiring region is important to Rommelsbacher’s own accomplishments, and the company says it fosters“a strong dedication to tradition and expansion.” From starting out by building electrical kitchen and household appliances, to the renowned ‘robusta’ single stove, today Rommelsbacher’s high-tech products are among the most sought-after appliances.

The firm is represented at various trade fairs throughout the year and Rommelsbacher’s products have been globally recognized with numerous awards and critical praise.

The product range comprises classics such as induction stoves, party grills, fondues, coffee grinders, sandwich or waffle makers and many other attractive kitchen appliances.

Family-run success Now in its third generation, the business values stable client relations, a continuous human resource policy and strong ties to the region. At Rommelsbacher, the trademark

34 | Issue 7 | September 2013

In fact, industry experts and customers all over the world alike value Rommelsbacher’s dedication to perfectionism and German business morale, as products are designed, manufactured and shipped from the site in Bavaria.

Gustav Rommelsbacher

Humility as a virtue Even though the company has defined and re-defined itself, the focus remains on ensuring the highest quality of its electrical products.This specialisation in a number of top-notch appliances provides Rommelsbacher with a competitive advantage, and its detail-oriented manufacturing process contributes to the company’s success story.

Their business maxim is to “offer a range that is balanced between tradition and modernity, new and established products.”

Experience and innovation Drawing on more than 85 years of experience, Rommelsbacher still aspires to combine both functionality and simplicity and to make its products even more innovative, energy-efficient and durable. For the future Rommelsbacher seeks to accelerate electrical innovation and improve the functionality of electrical house appliances, while offering the best customer service. www.rommelsbacher.de

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PURE COOKING PLEASURE

Experience the new dimension of grilling!

Grilling with electricity – Grilling made easy – Grilling like a pro –

quick and safe grilling, enjoy versatile applications innovative technology and high ease of use perfect results thanks to excellent workmanship

ROMMELSBACHER ElektroHausgeräte GmbH · Rudolf-Schmidt-Str. 18 · D-91550 Dinkelsbühl · Germany phone +49 9851/5758-0 · fax +49 9851/5758-59 · info@rommelsbacher.de · www.rommelsbacher.de

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Unique fashion by up and coming label 7TY8!

The young fashion and lifestyle label 7TY8, based in Southern Germany, offers trendsetters a sophisticated online shopping experience!

TEXT: MARILENA STRACKE | PHOTOS: 7TY8

Since she was a teenager CEO Tanja Dietzig has dreamed of having her own label: “I remember it was often difficult to find the right sizes. Either the sleeves were too short or the whole t-shirt itself didn’t fit! Or classmates at school already wore it.

Around 15 years later I started thinking about this again and the idea for the label just grew and grew over the following months.” At the beginning of 2012 Tanja Dietzig designed the logo and registered it immediately at the German patent and trademark office. “The number 78 is the year I was born in and the viper from the logo goes back to 1978 being the Chinese year of the snake,”she explains.

The new online label 7TY8 was born! Since then it has attracted great attention and quickly established itself in the fashion world.

Right from the start Tanja Dietzig kept away from mass products and mainly works with experienced German partners. For example, the watches are made by a clockmaker in the Goldstadt Pforzheim and truly deserve the famous Made in Germany tag.

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Hence the hip label stands for quality and innovation, and offers a variety of trendy clothes and fabulous accessories. Sophisticated and creative designs simply speak for themselves. 7TY8 constantly re-invents itself and keeps surprising the online fashion world.

Tanja Dietzig is proud that she has secured interesting projects and collaborations for her label despite it being still relatively young and small. Using contacts, social media and smart marketing strategy has made all the difference.“At the moment we are opening a new shop category called Crystal ART Collection.Together with Swarovski Elements we present finished individual pieces and limited small editions. Those items will be guaranteed exclusive.”

But that is not all. 7TY8 is also going to offer 3D wall paintings made with the use of lasers. At the moment they all have the same form with different colour combinations but it looks like there is a lot more to come! In the future Tanja Dietzig hopes to

Main image, left: 7TY8 LOVE Collection 12 Right above: 7TY8 Crystal ART Collection

develop the label’s fashion portfolio further and in alignment with her philosophy. “Everything is done according to the motto: No is not an option,”she smiles.

And with that can-do attitude Tanja Dietzig and her label are bound to succeed! www.7ty8.de www.blog.7ty8.de www.asigns.eu

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www.munichtime.de

November 1st to 3rd 2013 Hotel Bayerischer Hof, Munich

ld The wor es atch w e n fi f o otel at the h

ry Free ent

!

www.viennatime.at

November 15th to 17th 2013 MAK - Austrian Museum for applied Arts and Contemporary Arts, Vienna Mediapartners:

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Discover Germany | Special Theme | Autumn Fairs Main image, left: © Deutsche Messe AG CeBIT Botom, from left to right: ©Light+Bulding, Messe Frankfurt / Pietro Sutera © Messe Duesseldorf / Constanze Tillmann BAU 2013 © Messen Muenchen BAU

Special Theme

Autumn Fairs

Ideally suited for innovations

Trade fairs in Germany TEXT: DR. PETER NEVEN, MANAGING DIRECTOR OF THE ASSOCIATION OF THE GERMAN TRADE FAIR INDUSTRY (AUMA) PHOTOS: PRESS IMAGES

Trade fairs are recognised as outstanding platforms for presenting innovations to the public.Thus, for exhibitors at German trade fairs showcasing new products and services is one of their most important aims. On the one hand trade fairs mirror an industry’s innovative potential and market trends. On the other, German trade fairs are a reflection of the main trends in industry and society. Examples are innovative urban infrastructures, sustainable production technologies, intelligent energy production, eco-friendly transport, food security and healthcare, as well as demographic change and living in a digital world. In recent years trade fairs dealing with these topics have been established or existing shows have expanded to include these product groups.

Dr. Peter Neven

One of the reasons why German trade fairs are so successful is that they engage with the market.This year AUMA, the organisation representing the German trade fair industry, forecasts trade fair figures to remain stable or reflect slight growth. In 2013, 140 international and national trade fairs are scheduled to take place in Germany, many of them world leaders. An estimated 165,000 exhibitors will take part, occupying stands covering around 6.5 million m². At approximately 10 million, visitor attendance is likely to remain the same.

Germany has 22 exhibition venues with over 2.75 million m² of available hall space.

Their trade fairs are of international and national importance. At ten of the exhibition grounds hall capacity exceeds 100,000 m²; three of the world’s five largest exhibition grounds are in Germany. Trade fair organisers in Germany register a total turnover of more than 3 billion euros. In terms of turnover, four of the world’s ten leading exhibition companies are based in Germany.

The most important aspect of German trade fairs is their international appeal.

More than half of the exhibitors are from abroad, a third of whom come from countries outside Europe. More than one in four visitors come from abroad.

AUMA, the Association of the German Trade Fair Industry, represents the interests of exhibitors, organisers and visitors to trade fairs. Its website at www.auma.de provides information on trade fairs in Germany and around the world. AUMA currently has 76 members, including 38 associations representing exhibitors and visitors from industry, as well as 38 companies organising trade fairs. www.auma.de

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All the food industry has to offer and more It is the world’s largest and most important meeting place for the international food and beverage sectors: the Anuga Food Fair in Cologne. Every two years it successfully brings together the latest trends, new themes and target groups, always at the highest level.

TEXT: LYDIA EVERS | PHOTOS: KÖLNMESSE

With approximately 6,700 exhibiting companies and 160,000 expected trade visitors, the 32nd Anuga Food Fair (from 5 to 9 October 2013) will again be the global hub for the trade in food and beverages. Since 2003 the fair has consisted of ten trade shows that expertly and internationally represent the ten largest core segments in the food and beverages industry: Anuga Fine Food, Anuga Chilled & Fresh Food, Anuga Meat, Anuga Frozen Food, Anuga Dairy, Anuga Bread & Bakery, Hot Beverages, Anuga Drinks, AnugaFood Service, Anuga RetailTec and Anuga Organic.

This year, Anuga’s profile will be even further sharpened by the expansion and ac-

40 | Issue 7 | September 2013

centuation of its trade fair concept and new modules, recognising trend themes and therefore responding to highly topical consumer demands. For instance, organic products may now only be presented as part of Anuga Organic if proof can be provided that they have the appropriate and approved organic certificates, giving buyers more security in terms of quality. Other trends themes include Fair Trade Products, Gourmet Products and Regional Specialities, Vegetarian Products, Health & Functional Food or Finger Food.

The Anuga FoodService will be even more precisely tailored to the needs of trade visitors. The three themes of institutional/

communal catering, food service concepts in the food trade and innovative restaurant kitchens, as well as target groups related to these topics will be addressed in motivational presentations given by top-class international speakers and other exciting activities. Moreover, numerous specialized events and a networking platform will complement the information that is available at Anuga. The Executive Summit, the Forum for System Catering, the Wine Special (including award ceremony) or the new products platform taste13 represent only a small part of the supporting programme that the fair has to offer.

Once again, the Anuga Food Fair will continue its success story and remain the most up-to-date and therefore most important information and sourcing platform in the industry. If you are in the food or beverages business, do not miss out on this fabulous event!

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Discover Germany | Special Theme | Autumn Fairs

Main image, left: Anuga Fine Food - Eastern Poland Left, from top to bottom: Anuga Fine Food - Cologne Anuga Fine Food - Wine Special Anuga Fine Food - Competition Chef of the Year Anuga Fine Food - Organic Food Anuga Fine Food - Bioitalia, organic jam producer

Interview with Ms. Katharina C. Hamma, Chief Operating Officer Koelnmesse GmbH There are several food exhibitions around the world. What makes Anuga so special?

A simple but true fact about Anuga is that the show stands out simply because of its dimensions. This year, the fair will once again occupy the entire hall complex of Koelnmesse: 284,000 m² of gross exhibition space, the fifth-largest trade fair grounds in the world. Over 80 per cent of the around 6,700 Anuga exhibitors come from abroad, many of them from European countries. However, a share of 35 per cent of the exhibitors come from non-European countries, from the Americas, from Asian, from the Middle East and Africa and even from Australia.

Which are the highlights for you at this year’s event?

Anuga will present attention-getting special shows, which include the taste13 trend show. Here trend products from the exhibitors’ product ranges will be on show, a main attraction for trend scouts as well as for the whole food industry. At another special show, called OliveOil Market, suppliers will present different olive oils from various countries and regions. And again the final round of the Anuga Chef of the Year-competition for professional chefs will take place on the Anuga Culinary Stage: An exciting and highly emotional event. Moreover, each day there will be a pizza baking competition including the finale of the European Pizza Championship. Visitors will find wine tasting events, product presentations of numerous kinds, cooking demonstrations and workshops on different topics. For five days in Cologne Anuga concentrates all that there is to see and to know in the food business.

Which are the important trends and developments that influence the food industry and thus the Anuga right now?

In general, consumers are demonstrating an increased willingness to pay more for high-quality food. And the primary characteristic of food quality is flavour. But trust in the product and its producer also plays an important role. Consequently, transparency and sustainability are crucial themes for the food industry. The market potential for organic and fair-trade products as well as regionally produced food is growing. Fastpaced and individualized lifestyles are driving the trend toward convenience products and also toward eating out more often. All of these trends in food are addressed at Anuga as well as the challenges the international food and beverages industry has to face in the future. www.anuga.com

Ms. Katharina C. Hamma, Chief Operating Officer Koelnmesse GmbH

- Next Anuga Food Fair in Cologne: 5th – 9th October 2013 - Organizer: Koelnmesse GmbH - Approx. 6.700 exhibiting companies - Expected visitors: 160.000 - Trade visitors only

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Discover Germany | Special Theme | Autumn Fairs

Left: Egor Koshelev, Dental Terror, 2012. Courtesy: Regina Gallery, Moscow Below: Pablo Rasgado, Arquitectura Desdoblada, 2013. Courtesy: The artist and Steve Turner Contemporary, Los Angeles Down: Adam Rzepecki, I know Dada, 1983. Courtesy: Dawid Radziszewski Gallery, Warsaw

East meets West at VIENNAFAIR The New Contemporary Born out of the need for Austrian contemporary art galleries to represent themselves at an international level, VIENNAFAIR The New Contemporary has gained momentum during its nine year run. The annual art fair is now the premier place to discover new and established talent from Austria and Eastern Europe.

TEXT: JULIKA HÜTHER | PHOTOS: PRESS IMAGES

The Austrian capital Vienna, once the political and economical hub between Western and Eastern Europe, is nowadays a trendy, vibrant city. WithVIENNAFAIR The New Contemporary, it is reclaiming its status as an interface between East and West for the contemporary arts scene. Christina Werner from the PR department says:“We are redefining the idea of‘East meets West’ in a completely new way and offer art collectors, curators and art lovers of all ages an

42 | Issue 7 | September 2013

interesting mix. During VIENNAFAIR The New Contemporary, the creative forces from the East, a current mainspring in the world of arts, gather in Vienna. Paired with the city's cultural offerings, it is an unbeatable experience.”

Last year, the art fair attracted more than 17,000 visitors from Austria, the neighbouring countries, Russia and abroad. This year's fair will see galleries from 27 differ-

ent countries represented. It includes exhibitions by established as well as young, up and coming galleries. Poland and other Eastern European countries will be on the forefront, as well as Turkey, Russia and Switzerland. Roughly one third of galleries are from Austria.

Searching for happiness The guiding theme of the upcomingVIENNAFAIR The New Contemporary is“Hap-

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Discover Germany | Special Theme | Autumn Fairs

piness”. There will be talks and dialogues between artists and experts from different fields such as psychology and philosophy under the heading“School of Happiness”.

The“VIENNA Pop”events will present Austrian and international artists exploring fundamental questions about life: How should we live in these times? What rules should determine our lives? Can art influence life and offer alternatives for living?

Those who want to learn from successful art collectors can attend the talks labelled “20 four 7 - Collecting the New Contemporary”.“VIENNA Live”consists of a series of performances which invite the visitor to interact directly with artists.There are tailormade programmes in which families with children, students or seniors can join discussions with young artists.

Werner explains why this art fair acts like a magnet for collectors, galleries and visitors alike:“Those who want to discover the art and creative scene of Vienna should start their discovery at VIENNAFAIR The New Contemporary, because this is where you will get to know the largest part of the scene, while simultaneously discovering the art scenes of Eastern and Southeastern Europe.”

The best of East and West The theme is underlined by artworks such as the installation“Evil Eye Removal Kit”by American artist Michael Bühler-Rose and the photography of the Soviet avant garde from the thirties with works by Alexander Rodchenko, Boris Ignatovich, Jacob Khalip and Mark Markov-Grinberg with support from the Lumiere Brothers gallery in Moscow. Young Austrian artists such as Franz Cserni, Hanna Putz, Lilli Thießen, Wendy & Jim and Alexander Ruthner will also be presenting their works.

VIENNAFAIR for everyone But the programme of the fair stretches further, attracting different targets and interest groups. Under the heading “VIENNA Talks”, visitors can attend talks, discussions and other events where they can meet important protagonists of the contemporary art scene. There is a special series of talks and discussions for students and young art lovers tailored to their interests.Talks on the Austrian art scene, the role of institutions for art in Eastern and Southeastern Europe and on buying works of art open up new aspects of the current scene and create alternatives for accessing art.

At this year's fair, there will be two curated exhibitions from Poland, which has an interesting young scene, and from Georgia, a yet widely unknown art scene, which will finally be presented to the world. Some of the galleries exhibiting at VIENNAFAIR 2013 for the first time are already well known among art enthusiasts.They are Galerie Crone, Galerie Christian Ehrentraut and Galerie Nordenhake from Berlin, Regina Gallery from Moscow, Galerie Clemens Gunzer and ribordy contemporary from Switzerland, Division of Labour from Great Britain and Steve Turner Contemporary from Los Angeles.

First-time participators from Eastern and Southeastern Europe include kim? Contemporary Art Centre from Riga, Polansky Gallery and Svit from Prague, Czuło´s´c, Galeria Stereo and Dawid Radziszewski Gallery from Poland, Baril from Rumania, Sariev Contemporary from Bulgaria and Gallery On The Move from Tirana.

www.viennafair.at www.thenewcontemporary.com www.facebook.com/Viennafair

Martin Sedlak (Slovakia), LP (Long Play), 2010.

Courtesy: Roman Fecik Gallery. Photo: Martin Sedlak

VIENNAFAIR The New Contemporary 2013 from 10/10/2013 to 13/10/2013

VIENNAFAIR The New Contemporary 2013 promises to be a highlight on every art lovers' calendar this season. Christina

Messe Wien, Halle A, Messeplatz 1, 1020 Vienna

Below left: Georg Karl Pfahler, Small Sao Paulo Zyklus Nr. 5, 1978. Courtesy: Galerie Crone. Photo: Marcus Schneider. Middle: Lori Hersberger, GEIST X, 2012. Courtesy: Lori Hersberger, Galerie Clemens Gunzer, Elias Ulli. Right: Marjetica Potrc

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Discover Germany | Special Theme | Autumn Fairs

International and contemporary art in Cologne

The ART.FAIR in Cologne takes place this autumn From October 31 to November 3 one of Germany´s biggest art fairs hosts new and established artists TEXT: JESSICA POMMER | PHOTO: ARTFAIR

2

For ten years now the ART.FAIR in Cologne has been realizing the unique concept of uniting established artists, artist newcomers and lovers of art in one venue.This year again, from October 31 to November 3, the ART.FAIR will host more than 34,000 visitors in the Staatenhaus in Cologne who can admire artworks from 90 galleries.

Among the more renowned galleries are the Galerie Osper from Cologne which will exhibit works from Gerhard Richter, the Galerie Rainer Klimczak fromViersen with works by Andy Warhol and Tom Wesselmann or the Galerie Berlin from Berlin which has in store paintings from Joachim Böttcher and Hans Brosch.

“Upcoming artists benefit hugely from the fair as well. They can present and sell their oeuvre to the public, exchange ideas with

fellow artists and get inspired by the masters,” says co-manager and co-founder Walter Gehlen. Him and Andreas Lohaus initially organized the fair as an Off-Show for art up to a value of 5,000 Euros. It rapidly developed into an international fair for the contemporary art scene.

“This year we kick off the event with a preliminary vernissage and prize nomination of the simultaneously happening ceremony of the BLOOOM Award by WARSTEINER, a global art competition for young creatives.

1,125 applications from 55 countries compete for the award,”explains Walter Gehlen who is part of the jury. The vernissage will be concluded with the smart Vernissage party and an exclusive fashion show by the German-American label Ludwig&Schwarz. www.art-fair.de/artfair_en

Artfair 2012

22- 24 November 2013 Come soak in the festive atmosphere at the Scandinavian Christmas Market, taking place outside the Finnish and Norwegian Churches in London on the 22-24 November 2013.

Browse through our different stalls for Scandinavian presents and decorations, and sample some hearty Scandinavian food together with a mug of hot mulled wine.

The Scandinavian Christmas Market is the perfect place to pick up some unique Christmas presents for your family and friends, with stalls selling everything from Scandinavian jewellery and furniture to Christmas decorations.

Albion Street, Rotherhithe, London, England All exhibitors will have well-stocked stalls, so visitors can rummage through, taste and purchase some of the best Scandinavian food, furniture and design at the Scandinavian Christmas Market.

Gold Sponsor

Organiser

Media Partner

SCAN M A G A Z I N E

Partners

The Finnish Church in London

www.scandinavianchristmas.co.uk

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Special Theme | Autumn Fairs

Planning to get married?

The Just Queer Wedding Fair in Berlin showcases everything a dream wedding requires no matter if you are planning a small and intimate wedding, a themed party or a lavish extravaganza. With romance in the air, couples who dare to say yes are most welcome to find inspiration for their big day.

TEXT: TINA AWTANI | PHOTOS: GLEICH & GLEICH / NORBERT BENIKE

Who is behind it? Marco Fuß is the founder of the Berlin based GLEICH & GLEICH [equal & equal] agency, which specialises in the consultation, planning and realisation of extraordinary weddings all over Germany and even in Tuscany, Italy. With passion and great attention to detail Marco and his team make dream weddings come true. If you are planning to tie the knot in style, this is your perfect partner. It didn’t take Marco long to realise that Berlin needed a high-class wedding fair, so he established the Just Queer Wedding Fair a couple of years ago.

Marco and his team put all wedding worries at bay. Specialising in gay weddings, his expertise is unrivalled.“It is not only about finding the right location, pretty flower arrangements, the right caterer, the DJ or making sure that things run smoothly.

There’s much more to a single sex marriage. Families and friends, straight or gay, sometimes get together for the first time at this occasion,”Marco explains.This requires a lot of tact and sensitivity.“For the couple, the wedding must become one of the most beautiful lifetime memories. I am well

aware of the responsibility,”he assures us.

According to Marco, Just Queer visitors can expect“high class entertainment and inspiration for their own wedding. Our exhibitors cover a sensible range of goods and services necessary for a wedding you’ll never forget.

It is quality instead of quantity.”Highlights include a live act from singer Andrew Carrington, former member of the Ten Tenors.

VOX TV will capture the atmosphere for the programme Four Weddings & A Dream Holiday and a mouth-watering wedding cake will be ready for tasting.

A visit to the Just Queer Wedding Fair will feel just like attending a spectacular wedding. www.gleichundgleich.com www.justqueer-hochzeitsmesse.de

JUST QUEER – the special wedding fair 20 October 2013, 1pm-8pm Lebensort Vielfalt, Niebuhrstr. 59-60 10629 Berlin-Charlottenburg

Marco Fuß. Photo: Jan Dommel

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Baeren turns your trade show vision into reality Exhibitions have always been a big international market, and Baeren GmbH in trying to deliver the best possible service to each of its clients has definitely become one of the main players on this market. Baeren GmbH is a German exhibition stand contractor based in the Munich area. The company operates not only in Europe but worldwide.

TEXT: JULIEN RATH | PHOTOS: BAEREN GMBH

One of the key destinations for Baeren is Russia. With its own Moscow based sales and planning office, the company has been able to build strong relationships with local firms which allows Baeren’s clients easier access to Russian trade fairs.

In Germany, Baeren has its own production including CNC, woodcutting plants and painting station. With 1,500 sqm storage, the company can easily manage several projects at the same time. Professional equipment as well as a network of 155 international top quality partner firms ensures that all projects run smoothly.

“Baeren tailors its services to the individual client’s needs. We can deliver under time pressure,” says Ingo Tschudowsky, Head Marketing Manager. “ One of the outstanding examples is a 300 sqm hotel lobby we had to practically rebuild, rearrange and redecorate for Sberbank at three World Economic Forums in Davos in a row. And all this within 48 hours for build-up and 12 hours for dismantle at night without any of the hotel guests being disturbed!”

46 | Issue 7 | September 2013

High profile Baeren clients include Gazprom, ROSTEC, Mazak and others.The company successfully completes more than 150 projects per year for international clients worldwide. You will always find Baeren team working at such events as MIPIM in Cannes, Paris Air Show at Le Bourget, World Economic Forum in Davos, Green Week in Berlin, MAKS in Moscow and many others. Sport fans could have seen Baeren works at Winter Olympics in Vancouver (2010) and Summer Olympic Games in London (2012).

Baeren is a recognized Octanorm Service Partner International. In 2013 Baeren received certification as a contractor for the public service, which is a further proof of high quality standards, and makes it one of the five trade show exhibition stands construction firms with this qualification in Germany.

Baeren not only builds stands, the company also creates designs, rents audio/video equipment and furniture. They have professional florists in house. And last but not least Baeren project managers speak English, German, Russian, French and Spanish, which makes them a real one-stop-shop of any exhibiting company in need for a reliable exhibition contractor. www.baeren-messebau.de Above, left: GAZPROM 2013, Hannover Messe Above, right: MAZAK 2013, Messe Intec ROSNEFT 2013, Hannover Messe WWF 2012, Davos Below: Ekaterinburg Expo Gala Dinner 2013, Paris

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Leipziger Designers’ Open gets ready for 2013 This October the annual Designers’ Open will be opening its doors in Leipzig. Since its inception in 2005 the Designers’ Open has become one of Germany’s biggest design festivals. Founders Jan Hartmann and Andreas Neubert have now teamed up with the Leipziger Messe.

TEXT: JULIEN RATH | PHOTOS: PRESS IMAGES

“The Designers’ Open has secured itself a firm spot in national as well as international creative industries,” says project director for Leipziger Messe, Nikolaus Schwarz-Hykel. The exhibition this October will be the first to be held in the Leipziger Messe building and in the lightflooded glass hall. The Leipziger Messe is one of Germany’s oldest trade show companies with a history spanning more than 850 years. Each year it hosts 140 trade shows and congresses, which attract more than 1.3 million visitors.

Last year’s Designers’ Open featured 105 stands alongside a number of exhibitions and different contact points throughout the city. Previous visitor numbers reached 12,500 and that number is set to grow over the coming years after a newly established

partnership with the Leipziger Messe. The Designers’Open has become an influential event for interior as well as fashion design.

The fair is also known for bringing exceptional scientific discoveries and research to design and industry. For the first time this year the Designer’s Open will dedicate a section to architecture, where presentations, panel discussions and special exhibitions will be hosted. The focus of the Designers’ Open this year is“smart technology - new design”which is also something that the architecture part of the exhibition will take up. This is the first time that a design trade fair has included architecture as part of its programme.“To add this programme to the concept of the Designers’Open is an enormous enrichment. Not only for the building culture of Sachsen and Central Germany but also in Germany itself,”says

Sebastian Thaut, spokesperson for the BDA regional group Leipzig and operations manager for the architectural bureau Atelier ST. The Designers’ Open Leipzig is open from October 25 to 27 for the general public.

Trade visitors are permitted entrance on the evening of October 24 for an exclusive preview and this year’s awards ceremony, where winners of the Designers’Open Jury award as well as the MDR Design Prize will be announced. Tickets for this evening are available online from September 9. www.designersopen.de www.leipziger-messe.de

Top image: Glashalle Magnolienallee. Photo: Grubitzsch

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Business | Solicitor Column

Setting up a business in England TEXT & PHOTO: GREGOR KLEINKNECHT

Britain has now overtaken both France and the United States to become Germany’s single largest global trading partner, with Anglo-German trade in goods and services reaching an all-time high exceeding C150bn during the first nine months of 2012. German companies and investors such as Siemens and BMW are attracted by factors such as Britain’s investor friendly climate, competitive costs, highly skilled labour force, flexible employment laws, and excellent international transport connections. The good news is that the English legal system is designed to attract foreign investment and to facilitate the setting up of new businesses.

German companies wishing to expand their business activities and presence in the UK often initially engage commercial agents or distributors, or set up a joint venture operation or partnership, to benefit from local know-how and expertise and test the market for their products and services before committing to direct investment on a more permanent basis.

Gregor Kleinknecht LLM MCIArb is a German Rechtsanwalt and English solicitor, and the founder and managing director of Klein Solicitors, a successful independent boutique law firm in Mayfair in the West End of London.

Klein Solicitors, 42 Brook Street, London W1K 5DB, E-mail: gk@kleinsolicitors.com www.kleinsolicitors.com

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Once a decision has been made to set up a local subsidiary, legal and tax advice should be obtained on the most suitable business structure and to draft the necessary documentation, including corporate statutes and any shareholder or partnership agreements that may be required. The procedures for setting up a limited liability company or partnership are straightforward and fast.

There are no restrictions on foreign ownership of English companies and foreign nationals can become directors and officers of companies incorporated in England.

Securing business premises is likely to form a significant part of the initial financial investment and investors should make sure

that they fully understand the terms of any proposed property transaction, whether it is the purchase or lease of a property. In choosing the location of business premises, investors can often take advantage of regional investment incentives and grants.

Directors should be provided with service contracts and employment agreements must comply with statutory requirements.

Before starting to do business with suppliers and customers, the company’s standard contract terms and conditions should be reviewed to ensure that they are compatible with local commercial practice and comply with English law, including as to product liability and consumer protection.

Products must also be brought in line with local rules on packaging and labelling requirements. A review should be carried out as to whether the company’s intellectual property in any business names, trade marks, designs, inventions and products is adequately protected in the UK market.

Tax registrations must be carried out for both VAT and corporation tax and transfer pricing arrangements checked for tax compliance. Other registration requirements, such as the obligation to register with the Information Commissioners Office under data protection legislation, must also be borne in mind.

This article of course only provides a brief overview of the matters that should be considered and issues to be addressed. However, provided that professional advice is sought at the outset to ensure compliance with local legal requirements and to avoid problems further down the line, there is no reason why new businesses should not be off to a flying start.

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Discover Germany | Business | Conference of the Month

Conference of the Month Germany

Where the good vibes rule The Schindlerhof hotel and conference venue offers visitors a different kind of experience. Emotions are key and guests are seduced by the positive ambience from the moment they step inside. The company culture is based on geniality and the Schindlerhof is proof that happy employees make happy guests.

TEXT: TINA AWTANI | PHOTOS: SCHINDLERHOF

Located just north of Nuremberg the over 300 year old Schindlerhof features 92 individually designed hotel rooms reaching from Japanese Ryokan style to car themed accommodation or country style. Ten conference rooms cater for 2 to 180 people and culinary treats are offered in the unvergESSlich (unforgettable) restaurant.

Heart and soul of the Schindlerhof is the Kobjoll family.

ThinkArt, the conference centre, has been built in a minimalistic style and consists mainly of wood and glass. Based on Japanese and Chinese feng shui traditions, the premises are ideal for seminars and feel very inspiring. The architecture is focussed on essentials and the rooms are fully equipped with the latest high tech. Outside a Japanese garden offers space for relaxation.

The Schindlerhof has won countless awards in recent years and Nicole Kobjoll proudly says:“This year we were voted the best employer in Germany in the category

50-500 employees – and within Europe we rank at 29th place. We are really proud of this as it is part of our vision. We are a talent workshop and at the same time a place of pilgrimage for geniality.”But that is not all, as she continues.“The cream on top is our European Quality Award – today European Excellence Award. We received it in 1998 and until today we are the only German company to ever receive this highest European quality award.”

At the Schindlerhof everyone is given a warm welcome and the friendly and motivated team makes sure that visitors enjoy a stay they will always remember.“We consider ourselves researchers in the field of geniality – every employee is challenged to try new things every day in order to improve our service. Everyone is included, even the accounting department,”Ms Kobjoll explains.

Main image: Award-winning team Above right: Think Room; Japanese garden Below: Nicole Kobjoll

www.schindlerhof.de

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Above: Rebecca Schween, Managing Director

All they do is German As the only recruitment firm operating internationally and exclusively specialising in connecting employers with highly qualified German speaking professionals, London-based Worldkonnekt has quickly become a household name in the industry.

How do they do it?

TEXT: TINA AWTANI | PHOTOS: STEPHANIE ANDREI

With about 100 million native German speakers across Europe and further 80 million people who speak German as a second language, it didn’t take Rebecca Schween, Wordkonnekt Founder and Managing Director, long to identify the huge potential of

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German is officially spoken in five different European countries including Austria, Germany, Lichtenstein, Luxembourg and Switzerland. Language skills aside, the German work ethic and skills are high in demand not only amongst German corporations.

specialising in this niche. Having spent a large part of her career outside Germany, she realised how important German language skills are for the global economy. After all Germany is Europe’s largest economy and the world’s third largest export country.

“Worldkonnekt is a German language recruitment firm focused exclusively on German speakers and businesses looking for German speakers. We assist firms looking for German speaking professionals across a range of areas including finance, engineering, IT, sales and marketing,” explains Ms Schween. Given our focus, Worldkonnekt

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Discover Germany | Business | Worldkonnekt Human Resource

what lays the foundation for a successful and long-term relationship between clients and candidates.There is a growing perception and recognition that compared to other nations, on average, German speaking talent tends to be above average. But why is that?“ German speakers are generally hard working, well-educated and skilled. They are dependable and respect the contract of employment with their employer. Long term commitment is also a major factor,” the managing director says.

German speakers tend to be direct which can be refreshing for employers. She remembers one candidate who was very serious when asked about geographically flexibility and replied, “I would be pretty amenable to living anywhere except in places where I’d need to travel wearing an armoured vest or a breathing apparatus".

The future looks bright

assists clients not only within Europe, but also in the Middle East and Asia.“We help German companies who would like to source talent outside of Germany, for positions inside and outside of Germany, including the Middle East. Given the export orientation of German businesses, in particular the Mittelstand, we ask businesses why confine your search to Germany for a German speaking professional. We also work with companies who are establishing or growing their physical presence in Germany. This assistance extends to cultural guidance as there are many distinct differences between German and other cultures,” she describes. Being trilingual herself and having spent large parts of her professional life in various countries, the recruitment

expert knows exactly how to handle regional and cultural differences.

German speaking work force Worldkonnekt understands that cultural differences are one of the main, but underappreciated, reasons why new hires don't work. They believe it is critical that cultural awareness is an input into any recruiting strategy. “We are the natural first call for German clients, International clients hiring German speaking professionals and candidates looking to leverage their German language skills. We try every day to apply the German culture of excellence and hard work in ensuring we deliver the best possible experience for our clients and candidates,” Rebecca carries on. This is exactly

‘Made in Germany’, these three words have become synonymous with high quality, efficiency and premium output. The German employment market remains strong with an unemployment rate of 5.4 per cent.“The economic strength of the German domestic economy has pushed German unemployment lower, resulting in fewer available German speakers. The growing movement of German speaking professionals around the world has increased the need for specialists operating internationally with greater insight into this specific segment to assist in the fulfilment of German speaking roles.”

Worldkonnekt is passionate about delivering the best possible experience for clients and candidates with the aim of building long-term term partnerships. Be it through providing clients with the best German speaking candidates to enable further development of their business or assisting candidates to conquer a new step on the career ladder. Rebecca and her Worldkonnekt team are certainly committed to continue delivering that ‘Made in Germany ‘ experience for clients and candidates around the world. www.worldkonnekt.com

Issue 7 | September 2013 | 51

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Embracing the change of season Alpine luxury, sports and wellness With the changing of the seasons comes a new time to relax and restart. The 4 Star-Superior Hotel Post in the Tyrol region of Austria embraces modern comfort and elegant design, outdoor delights and delicate culinary compositions.

TEXT: ELISABETH DOEHNE | PHOTOS: PRESS IMAGES

Tucked away between majestic Alps, beautiful green valleys and lavish fields, the Alpine Luxury Hotel Post is conveniently located in the town of Leermos at an altitude of 1,000 metres, bordering Germany, Austria, Switzerland and Italy.

from the hotel’s windows. The Zugspitze, Germany’s highest peak at 2,962 metres is just 10 minutes away and easily accessible with the Tiroler Zugspitzbahn. Activity options are plenty such as mountain biking, golfing, hunting or wildlife watching.

are more than helpful in pointing out routes that are perfect for the occasional wanderer or challenging enough for experienced hikers. Another exclusive treat comes in the form of Swarovski crystal binoculars, which can be borrowed by guests.

Natural paradise

Relax or explore

Open all year round, this renowned Austrian resort is the perfect place to embark on a wellness journey this fall. As the colours of the trees are changing and the golden sun sets low, the Wetterstein mountain ranges look more glorious than ever

Visitors can sit on the hotel’s spacious terrace and overlook the scenic valley, breathing in the crisp air that feels revitalising or they can plan their very own mountain adventure. All rooms are equipped with hiking gear and backpacks and members of staff

A beautiful blend of comfort and elegance lies at the very heart of Hotel Post. Staying true to its alpine character, the traditional Austrian resort was modernised in 2006 and now offers a dazzling spa area with world-class facilities. For almost three decades now, the hotel has been family-

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Discover Germany | Business | Prodinger GFB Hotel Post Left: The Alpine Luxury Hotel Post. Photo: Somweber Middle below: Post Alpin SPA Bottom: Dining Room Jagdstube

nium, herbal and aromatic baths, a Tyrolean as well as a family sauna, Kneipp area and rooms to relax with waterbeds and reading options. A wide spectrum of beauty treatments, massages, various peelings are available. A large gym room features the latest fitness equipment. Hotel Post offers a plethora of active or wellness options and “guests will value the time there to relax body, mind and soul,”promises the hotel’s staff.

Rooms to love The rooms are characterised by the balance between tasteful interior, sophisticated furniture, contemporary design, and the magnitude of the natural setting. Almost all of the 76 suites have direct views towards the enchanting mountains and most windows offer a direct glance at the Zugspitze. In addition, Hotel Post offers a luxurious penthouse with 127sqm living space and a garden chalet.

Dine in style In the restaurant healthy and light culinary creations are served alongside typical Tyrolean hearty specialities.The dining rooms are tastefully furnished with delicate fabrics such as satin, traditional ornate and comfortable furniture; lights are dimmed, so guests enjoy the Austrian “Gemütlichkeit” in full splendour. run by Mr Franz and Mrs Angelika Dengg, who tell us that they embody a dedication to service, wellbeing and professionalism.

Alpine hospitality at its finest The great location makes the Hotel Post the ideal venue to enjoy a weekend getaway, spend a longer vacation, or hold corporate events.“The combination of comfort, wellness and sports is appealing to all guests and our alpine hospitality is deeply rooted in our 453 year-long history,” says the management. The beautiful lodge is well known for its innovative hospitality and for constantly setting new standards in the field of Austrian tourism. The stunning location, great attention to detail and the

luxurious yet relaxing ambiance, are factors that are highly appreciated by visitors of all age groups.

Attentive staff ensures that all stress is left behind from the moment guests step inside. Fresh ingredients are sourced from regional farmers and an impressive list of 600 wines has carefully been created to match all seasonal dining options.

Revitalise your soul

How to get there

Spa, wellness and pool areas are of an exquisite nature. At Hotel Post, relaxation goes hand in hand with sports and an active lifestyle.“A haven for nature enthusiasts and wellness lovers alike, our hotel offers the best of both worlds,” states the manager. Being recognised as one of the best wellness hotels in Austria, it comes as no surprise that Post Alpin SPA excites visitors with 2,000sqm of various pools, a Laco-

Getting to the 4-Star Hotel Post is easy, as it is centrally located between the cities of Innsbruck (70km), Munich (140km), Salzburg (270km), Stuttgart (230km), and all highways lead there.There is a train station at Leermoos or guests can arrange transportation from the nearest airport. www.post-lermoos.at welcome@post-lermoos.at

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Hotel

of the Month Germany

V8 Hotel offers out of the ordinary automobile hotel experience Combine a 4 star hotel with a love for driving and automobiles and you get the V8 Hotel in Böblingen, near Stuttgart. On what used to be an airport now stands a unique hotel. Here everything is centred around the love of cars. In 2009 the former military airport was opened up to public construction and the first projects arrived.

Now it has been turned into an area centred on cars called Meilenwerk. In the middle of all this visitors will find the V8 HOTEL built in the Bauhaus style.

TEXT: JULIEN RATH | PHOTOS: FRANK HOPPE

Highlights of the hotel are the ten themed rooms where guests can sleep inside a car, obviously modified to fit a bed in. Popular theme rooms such as the drive-in movie theatre, car wash, petrol station or garage make the experience one of a kind.

Founder and manager of the V8 HOTEL Simeon Schad had always been a car fan since he was a child. “When we got the hotel we knew that the size, 34 rooms with 70 beds, would force us to do something out of the ordinary,” explains Schad. “That’s why we decided to work together with artists to connect the most important themes of the automobile with what we’re doing.” The artists, a painter and a furniture designer, with whom Schad worked on his hotel

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transformed running classic cars into beds for hotel guests. Not only does the room offer an incredible experience to fall asleep in but also during the day the hotel offers guests something exceptional all round the region where the German car industry is centred. Hotel guests can spend a day visiting the Mercedes and Porsche Museums.

Even a visit to the Mercedes factory is something unmissable, even more so because the factory is only 500 metres away from the V8 HOTEL. Being a recognised four star hotel theV8 HOTEL offers its guests all the amenities that you would expect.

Every year the Meilenwerk hosts 3 different events: season opening, summer festival and season closing, which will be in Octo-

Main image: V8 Hotel From top to bottom: V8 Hotel Lobby V8 Hotel Themed Room - Car wash V8 Hotel Themed Room - Petrol station

ber this year. For every event theV8 HOTEL organises a programme centred on events for its guests with music, gastronomy and shows. www.v8hotel.de/en

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Hotel

of the Month Austria

Enjoy and relax in the diplomatic heart of Vienna Vienna, the capital of Austria, is not only a metropolis known for its imperial history, but also a city with diplomatic status which has one of the highest quotas of annual conferences. Located just across the “UNO City”, Vienna´s diplomatic district, the 4-star-superior-hotel ARCOTEL Kaiserwasser lends itself as a place for businessrelated stays.

TEXT: JESSICA POMMER | PHOTOS: ARCOTEL KAISERWASSER

Originally Austrian, the ARCOTEL hotel group aims at giving its guests a homely feeling and radiating Austrian charm. With 282 rooms available, comprising rooms, suites, apartments and business suites, the hotel offers plenty of space for recovery from a stressful day full of work. Six individually furnished theme rooms integrate innovative architectural elements such as round-shaped beds, a baldachin or a pendant sofa.“Business does not have to be delayed in the ARCOTEL Kaiserwasser. The Executive Lounge on the fifth floor provides a private and relaxed place to hold business meetings,” says Manfred Mayer, CEO of ARCOTEL Hotel AG.“Its exclusivity is guaranteed by a separate reception.

The seven seminar rooms amount up to an area of 350 square metres and can host up

to 280 people. Additionally, there are five business suites for private meetings, which dispose of state-of-the-art technology.”

Due to its convenient location close to the city centre and green space, the ARCOTEL Kaiserwasser is also an attractive place for families. With the underground station just around the corner, the city centre can be reached within a few minutes. On the other hand, guests can enjoy nature by strolling on the Danube shore or sunbathing on the nearby natural“Gänsehäufel”beach. Since spring 2012, ARCOTEL Kaiserwasser owns its own dock so that visitors can relax in a private atmosphere.

The hotel´s restaurant “UNO” spoils the palate of all guests with original Austrian

dishes and international cuisine. In 2007 and 2013 it was awarded one toque by Gault Millaut. Executive chef Johann Schwarz takes care of a various and frequently changing menu. The restaurant`s terrace opens up a view of the Kaiserwasser.

The celebration of weddings or Christmas staff parties in the ARCOTEL Kaiserwasser is becoming increasingly popular as the hotel staff secures a professional organisation and smooth procedure for each event. www.arcotelhotels.com/en/kaiserwasser

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Discover Germany | Attraction of the Month | Germany

Attraction of the Month Germany

Forward thinking and extraordinary design in a traditional setting MIK Museum – Information – Kunst (museum, information, art): Ludwigsburg’s newly opened innovative centre combining the Ludwigsburg museum, the tourist information centre, the local art society, and café Zichorie. A welcoming cultural get-together for local residents and visitors.

TEXT: LEONIE PUSCHER | PHOTOS: © ROLAND HALBE

300-year-old imperfections in the walls, room layout dating back to the early 18th century combined with contemporary design features: the building that houses the Ludwigsburg museum is an exhibit in itself!

With its grand reopening in May 2013, the museum revealed additions to the original building, well thought out architecture by Arno Lederer, Jórunn Ragnarsdóttir and Marc Oei. The combination of contemporary work by brilliant architects and the monumental building structure creates a unique atmosphere, ready to be explored.

The Ludwigsburg Museum is dedicated to maintaining the city’s 300-year-old history in its best form. In various theme rooms you will find yourself wandering around

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the precisely positioned exhibition landscape, shaped by Museum-designer hg merz. The continuous exhibition of Ludwigsburg’s 300-year-old cultural and urban history is the heart of the MIK. The best of the museums 25,000 piece sumptuous collection of historically relevant objects is featured in the exhibition of Ludwigsburg planned city. Discover ideas and visions that minted the city over the years and find out more about influential people over the last three centuries.You’ll start with a model of Ludwigsburg, allowing you to let your eyes fly over the city, discovering structures you otherwise couldn’t. Further into the exhibition theme rooms, highlights like certificates from Ludwigsburg’s founding time and graphic prints displaying the the Wurt-

temberg Castle’s landscape will catch the attention of curious minds.

The city’s comeback in terms of industrial activity is also featured in the exhibition. A variety of objects and industrial objects found their way into the brightly lit exhibition place. Objects telling you the silent story of people’s lives, centuries before the present time. All these interesting insights are complemented by media stations. Furthermore this inviting place offers exhibition-guides in English and French for its international guests. This cultural forum (which, by the way, is free) is worth a visit and certainly will make your legs want to continue to explore the present Ludwigsburg. Well, if they do need a rest after this insightful visit, luckily you’ll find one of the city’s best coffees right under the same roof.

Enjoy! www.mik-ludwigsburg.de

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Discover Germany | Attraction of the Month | Germany

Ludwigsburg Extravagant culture and style Cozy alleyways, town squares, the impressive residence castle and a typical baroque town layout: Ludwigsburg, a colorful diamond in the southwest of Germany.

Main image: Ludwigsburg Christmas Market Top right: Ludwigsburg Castle Below right: Ludwigsburg kitchen maid

TEXT: LEONIE PUSCHER | PHOTOS: PRESS IMAGES

If you are looking to receive a proper German cultural experience, this is the place to go. The city’s tourism association has made it their priority to show visitors Ludwigsburg at its best. Plenty of exciting walking tours take groups through the 300 years of Ludwigsburg’s history. If you think of the average flag-holding guide, occasionally pulling an overused joke, think again! Here you’ll find an authentic Ludwigsburger, dressed according to individual tours. From April to November kitchen maid Anna guides you through the tasks of her everyday life in 1815. The tour leads to the weekly fruit and veg market to buy ingredients for her masters, the owners of a local gastro pub. She knows her way around and will want to show newcomers her favorite walk through the oldest district in

town. Be prepared for some burning ears though, because Anna knows all the gossip in town and she’s not afraid to spill.

Moving up the society ladder, Countess Wilhelmine von Grävenitz will take you on a walk through the town centre of 1736.The mistress of Duke Eberhard Ludwig was seen as an influential force in lawmaking during her time. If you come along, she will hesitate to tell you all about her exciting life, full of love, power, and intrigue.

Her sassy ways will keep your eyes glued to her lips. Don’t forget to look up, though, she’ll show you things you wouldn’t know were there.

Later in the year, Christmas time in Ludwigsburg is definitely worth a visit. Skip

Winter Wonderland or the Southbank Xmas market – you won’t find a better atmosphere to get your holiday mood going.

Ludwigsburg Christmas Market is full of traditional stands serving the best German food and, of course, mulled wine! All your senses will be on a high at this baroquestyle Christmas market in the heart of Ludwigsburg.

Another Highlight in the town’s calendar is the two-yearly Venice masquerade fair.

From 12 until 14 September 2014 everyone will dive into the fantastic world of lush costumes, enchanting vibes and mysterious masks. www.ludwigsburg.de

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Attraction of the Month Austria

Liechtenstein Garden Palace

Celebrate like a Prince The Liechtenstein Garden Palace, a High Baroque masterpiece that influenced Vienna's architecture for decades, is now an exclusive venue for hire and a popular backdrop for photos and films. Art lovers will be enthralled by masterpieces from Rubens to Raphael whilst strolling through the palace's grand rooms and exquisite garden.

Top right: Garden Palace library. © LIECHTENSTEIN. The Princely Collcetions, Vaduz Vienna Below right: Garden Palace Sala Terrena Liechtenstein. © Palais Liechtenstein GmbH

TEXT: JULIKA HÜTHER

The building and grounds belong to the Princely Family of Liechtenstein, whose predecessor Johann Adam Andreas I. von Liechtenstein acquired the land and had the Garden Palace built as a summer residence around the year 1700. A great admirer of the Italian arts, von Liechtenstein commissioned Domenico Egidio Rossi to create a draft for a city mansion resembling a Roman Palazzo, which was put into execution by Domenico Martinelli.

the Princely Collections, which nowadays include masterpieces from early Renaissance to the Biedermeier era, was transferred to the Garden Palace and made accessible to the wider public.The addition of the library saw another major adaptation of the palace to a newly acquired function.

Magistra Julia Holter from the communication and event management department says:“The odour of 100,000 historic books creates a special atmosphere.”

The neo-classical building with its cool, monumental air, its impressive splendour and stylistic uniformity greatly influenced the development of Baroque architecture in Vienna. The Hercules Hall, measuring 550 square metres and including a ceiling fresco

by Andrea Pozzo, was the biggest and most impressive secular Baroque hall in the entire Austrian capital.

After the Second World War, during which the artefacts were removed from the Garden Palace for security reasons, the palace became a meeting place for Austria's building trade. Later, the mumok Museum of Modern Art moved in, before the palace underwent a lengthy refurbishment which not only returned it to its former glory but created a modern exhibition space.

The Garden Palace has seen many changes.

In the early 19th century, a large part of

Today, the Garden Palace is an exclusive venue that can be booked for guided tours

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Main image: Garden Palace. © LIECHTENSTEIN. The Princely Collections, Vaduz–Vienna, La Veduta, Katharina Drexler

of the Princely Collections as well as for corporate and private events where guests can soak in the splendour of the magnificent rooms and garden. It is available for groups of ten to 1,600 guests and can host gala dinners, seminars, trade shows, summer parties, fashion shows, concerts, weddings, anniversaries and other events which bring its 300 years of history back to life. www.palaisliechtenstein.com

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Attraction of the Month | Austria

Left: City Palace. © podpod Middle: City Palace. © LIECHTENSTEIN. The Princely Collections, Vaduz, Vienna Bottom left: City Palace vestibule. © podpod Bottom middle: City Palace square room. © LIECHTENSTEIN. The Princely Collections, Vaduz–Vienna, La Veduta Bottom right: City Palace ballroom detail. © LIECHTENSTEIN. The Princely Collections, Vaduz–Vienna

the City Palace was refurbished between 2008 to 2013, it was restored to its former grandeur. With a budget of more than 100 million Euros,“the palace has been adapted to modern standards through laborious and detailed work, protecting and rejuvenating its historical charms perfectly,”says S.D. Prince Hans-Adam II. von und zu Liechtenstein.

Liechtenstein City Palace

Finesse and Finery The Liechtenstein City Palace is the former residency of the Princely Family in the heart of Vienna, home to the Biedermeier artefacts from the Princely Collections and a venue for hire. It is also a primary example of the detailed splendour and clever engineering of the Baroque and Neo-Rococo periods.

TEXT: JULIKA HÜTHER

The City Palace was commissioned by Johann Adam Andreas I. von Liechtenstein in the late 17th century and was built by Domenico Martinelli. The interior came to life with dedicated artists such as stuccoworker Santino Bussi, sculptor Giovanni Giuliani and painters Andrea Lanzani and Antonio Bellucci.

In the years 1836 to 1847, the palace was redecorated, creating the first and most important example of Neo-Rococo interiors in Vienna. Large ceremonial rooms with elab-

orate parquet floors and complex inlays, silkcovered furniture and prodigious chandeliers reflected the wealth and taste of the Princely Family as much as it did their love of art.

Ingenious engineering included novelty features such as an elevator, an inter-phone with ivory mouthpieces, a hot air radiator system with exhaust openings artfully disguised as parts of chandeliers, as well as doors, windows and mirrors that could be turned and opened, by the use of a lever, to transform the rooms within seconds. When

The City Palace is now an exclusive venue for hire and an exhibition space for the Biedermeier artefacts from the Princely Collections, one of the most valuable and largest private art collections in the world.

The public can visit the palace and collection, which features works by Friedrich von Amerling and Ferdinand Georg Waldmüller, by booking guided tours. Several of the grand rooms can be hired for exclusive events which can be individually customised.

Magistra Julia Holter from the communications and event management department sums up the unique appeal:“Both the Garden Palace and the City Palace are in the private ownership of the Princely Family, who themselves use them for special occasions and conduct tours of their private art collection. Visitors become immersed in a piece of living history and the world of the Princely Family.” www.palaisliechtenstein.com

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Discover Germany | Feature | Oktoberfest 2013

Come on to the Wiesn 2013!

From September 21 to October 6, 2013 staunch Oktoberfest aficionados and those who are aspiring to become Wiesn fans can enjoy the world’s largest folk festival for 16 days.

TEXT & PHOTOS: MUNICH TOURIST OFFICE

The Oktoberfest is officially inaugurated when Munich’s Lord Mayor Christian Ude exclaims“Ozapft is!”–“the barrel is tapped!” after traditionally broaching the first cask of beer at noon on 21 September 2013 in the Schottenhamel festive hall.

The Oktoberfest had its origin in 1810 when Crown Prince Ludwig – who later became King Ludwig I of Bavaria – and Princess Therese of Saxony-Hildburghausen celebrated their wedding.The festive grounds in the middle of the town were named after her: “Theresienwiese” which the locals affectionately abbreviated to“Wiesn”. So far twenty-four October festivals have had to be cancelled – during the war and post-war period and because of cholera epidemics in 1854 and 1873.This year joy in life and pure enjoyment will be experienced below the statue of Bavaria for the 180th time, when locals and guests again respond to the popular call “Come on to the Wiesn!”

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The festive area This year the festive area will extend over 34.5 acres. 613 companies have been admitted, including 141 caterers, 173 showmen, 300 marketers as well as several service providers (electric installation, tent construction, etc.). A total of about 13,000 persons work at the Oktoberfest.

Organization of the Wiesn The City of Munich is the organizer and developer of the Oktoberfest. Dieter Reiter, Chief Executive and Governing Member of the Munich City Council, is the man responsible for the planning, management and execution of this world-renowned festival.

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Discover Germany | Feature | Oktoberfest 2013

Wiesn News The greatest mobile adventure ride “Odyssee”will have its funfair premiere at the Wiesn as does “Sky Fall”, the highest transportable free-fall tower which allows its passengers to plummet from the sky like a rock. This year the compact roller coaster “Cobra” will be put into operation; it also permits children over 1.30 meter in height to join in the ride. The high-tech funhouse “Pirates’Adventure”takes Wiesn visitors to the fantastic world of pirates and corsairs.

Fish is king at “Fisch-Bäda”, a culinary venue for those who like fish as well as at the “Flammlachs” booth where salmon is freshly smoked over beech wood. Those who enjoy pork sausages, Polish sausages and the like will get their money’s worth at Burtscher's Wurstbraterei. At Martl's Herzlmalerei, hearts made of gingerbread are lettered with tooth-curling sweetness. A Caterpillar ride, bumper cars made of wooden posts and a small Ferris wheel are the“new”old attractions at the Oide Wiesn.

Festive Beer and Delicacies In the 16 festive halls with a total seating capacity for more than 115,000 guests the special Oktoberfest beer brewed by the six major Munich breweries (Augustiner, Hacker-Pschorr, Löwenbräu, Paulaner, Spaten and Staatliches Hofbräuhaus) with an original wort of about 13 percent is served. The beer is best accompanied by Bavarian delicacies such as radishes, Obatzda (specially garnished cream cheese), sausages and roast chicken or spicy fish grilled on a skewer. Another Wiesn specialty is the ox roasted on a spit at the

Main image: Photo: F Mueller Right top: Photo: B Roemmelt Right below: Photo: R Haas Left: Beer tent. Photo: A Kupka Photo: F Bauer

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Round and Round We Go Again Almost 173 rides, displays and sideshows promise thrills and enjoyment. The distinct mix of high tech and nostalgia is typical of the Oktoberfest. In addition to spectacular large rides such as “Höllenblitz” (“Lightning from Hell”) and“Flip Fly”you will find funfair attractions with a long-standing fairground tradition that can only be found at the Wiesn, such as the“Teufelsrad”(“Devil's Wheel”), the “Krinoline” (old-fashioned merry-go-round) and the Schichtl Variety Show, the latter being a true Oktoberfest institution. About 90 percent of the attractions have their roots in the 19th century, including swingboats, slides and mazes.

Die Oide Wiesn At the Oide Wiesn, in the southern part of Theresienwiese, folk festival traditions, Bavarian customs, Munich hospitality, tra-

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ditional and young folk music have been firmly established. The festive tent “Tradition” invites guests to have a swell time and enjoy old Munich delicacies. The Herzkasperl Tent provides a forum for young Bavarian folk and dance culture which presents itself in all of its diversity: vivacious, intercultural, cheeky and wild.

At the velodrome daring souls can hit the track on joke bikes. A museum tent is dedicated to the history of showmanship. Entertaining plays are staged at the Puppet Theatre. Folk fest attractions and rides of the olden days can be explored at the spe-

cial price of one Euro. The Oide Wiesn is open daily from 10 am to 10 pm. The admission fee is three Euro (children up to 14 years are free). www.muenchen.de/int/en/events/oktoberfest.html

Photo: Frank Bauer

Ochsenbraterei. A total of about 141 medium-size and small caterers invite their guests to enjoy and party. The price of beer is C9.40 - C9.85. Alcohol-free beer is available at the same price.

Photo: G Blank

Photo: Frank Bauer

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Discover Germany | Culture | Barbara Geier

It’s Oktoberfest Season Today, dear readers, I have a confession to make. One that might shock you since, after all, I’m German and there are certain things that all Germans are (have to be) very fond of. At least, according to popular British belief. So, be brave because I’m going to tell you now that despite my Germanic roots I don’t like beer. Not at all. I don’t drink it, never. Simply can’t stand the taste.

TEXT: BARBARA GEIER

Why am I saying this? Well, because it’s Oktoberfest season, Germany’s beloved beer festival that despite its name starts in late September and each year draws huge international crowds, all because of the beer. Right? Well, no, not from my point of view. Because I’ve been three times so far, never had a drop of beer but still a fabulous time. My visits were slightly different to the very liquid merriment of Australians, New Zealanders, Italians, Brits – and, of course, Germans. The general image of the Wiesn, as the locals call the Oktoberfest, that the world sees is one of lots of people drinking lots of beer and getting very drunk. Bierleichen (beer corpses) on the meadows around the Bavaria statue on the fringes of the Theresienwiese where the festival takes place are a common sight.

However, there’s another side to it. My personal Wiesn memories include sunshine, relaxed weekend mornings sitting on beer benches outside with good food and a nice glass of sparkling wine or white wine spritzer (that’s possible, yes, no one is going to shoot you). Or another year, dancing on benches in the Weinzelt (wine tent), singing silly songs and madly clapping

hands while it was raining cats and dogs outside. Unlike the typical big tents such as the Hippodrome or Augustiner, the wine tent serves wine, sparkling wine, champagne and wheat beer only, not the traditional one litre Maß. Just a hint for fellow non-beer drinkers out there who think the Oktoberfest is not for them.

The thing is, there is a very important element of the Oktoberfest that tends to be overlooked outside Germany, which is that traditionally it’s also a fantastic family fun fair with lots of rides, modern and wonderfully nostalgic ones, delicious foods and sweets and – a personal favourite of mine – ‘Bodos Cafézelt’, a tent entirely dedicated to cakes, coffee and massive hot chocolates.

For international visitors – and from my point of view this is a bit unfortunate – it’s more or less all about drinking as much beer as possible. For me, as a German living abroad, it’s more about a special sense of Heimat – even if I’m not Bavarian. It’s about tradition, about beautiful colourful Dirndls and Lederhosen and socialising with friends and strangers. Believe it or not, that’s possible without drinking beer. Even for Germans.

Barbara Geier is a London-based freelance writer, translator and communications consultant. She is also the face behind ww.germanyiswunderbar.com, a German travel and tourism guide and blog that was set up together with UK travel writer Andrew Eames in 2010.

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