Bidbook Germany by GCB German Convention Bureau

www.germany-meetings.com

Information brochure for planning international congresses in Germany

WELCOME

Dear Sir or Madame, face to face interaction is of great importance nowadays, especially in an era of modern communications. In such a fast-paced a time as the 21st century, it is essential to stay on top of the latest technology and commit to a lifetime of learning.

Germany offers you a framework in which to bring together people who can learn from and with each other, discuss the latest developments and share experiences. Superb value for money, excellent infrastructure, worldwide transport networks and a multitude of event locations speak for themselves and will convince you, too, to hold your event in Germany. Let Germany act as host for your event. You will be most welcome!

Matthias Schultze CEO German Convention Bureau e.V.

Welcome Why Germany? Germany’s Regions Map of Germany Hamburg and Northern Germany Hanover and the Centre of Germany Berlin and Potsdam Dresden, Leipzig and Eastern Germany Cologne, Bonn, Düsseldorf and Western Germany Frankfurt and Rhine-Main/Neckar Stuttgart and Southwest Germany Munich, Nuremberg and Bavaria Use synergies - plan professionally with the GCB. Meeting Calendar Germany

02 04 06 07 08 09 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17

CONTENTS

Lufthansa Meetings & Events – your travel solution The Deutsche Bahn AG – mobility service provider for large events Overview convention capacities Overview hotel capacities and price ranges Overview hotel chains PCO – Professional Congress Organiser, the experienced planning partner by your side Incentive, social and accompanying programmes: ideas across the Republic IMEX - incorporating Meetings made in Germany Choosing the right date Why not stay longer?

18 19 20 21 22 23 24 27 28 29

Picture credits: Publisher German Convention Bureau

GCB Branch Office North America

Münchener Str. 48 60329 Frankfurt/Main, Germany Tel. +49 69 242 930- 0 Fax +49 69 242 930- 26 E-Mail info@gcb.de www.gcb.de

122 East 42nd Street, Suite 2000 New York, NY 10168-0072, USA Tel. +1 212 661 4582 Fax +1 212 661 6192 E-Mail gcbny@gcb.de www.germany-meetings.com

Title: ©aysbaby - Fotalia.com - p 04: „BMW Isetta“: Fotograf: Andrew Cowin, Quelle: DZT; Kuppel des Reichtags © DZT - p 05: Zeche Zollverein © Matthias Duschner/Stiftung, Messe Stuttgart / ICS – Internationals Congress Center Stuttgart - p 06: Frankfurt Skyline: ©Tourismus+Congress GmbH Frankfurt am Main; Brandenburger Tor Berlin: © visitberlin. de - p 08: Hamburg Docklands: ©Hamburg Marketing GmbH - p 10: Berliner Mauer: © visitberlin.de; Schloss Sanssouci: Fotograf: Dietmar Scherf, Quelle: DZT - p 15: Blick über das Olympiazeltdach: © Tourismusamt München, Fotograf: H.Gebhardt - p 22: andel’s Hotel Berlin – andel’s sky bar, Concorde Hotel Berlin – Concorde Dolomit Suite - p 23: „Stühle“: Foto: Tim Toppik; Quelle: Photocase - p 26: Hockenheimring Formelfahrzeuge in Kolonne: © Hockenheim-Ring GmbH - p 28: Tiefen der Zeit: Fotograf: Coniaric, Quelle: www.piqs.de - p 31: Weinreben: © Bayern Tourismus - p 32: Foto: Pierre Adenis / Quelle: Berlin Tourismus

WHY GERMANY?

Why Germany?

everal reasons speak for Germany as an event destination, be it for scientific congresses and hightech fairs, business events or product presentations. n High standards at attractive prices

A recent study by the renowned consultancy Mercer states that Germany’s overall value for money is excellent. This also applies to the hotel industry: German hotels feature exceptionally low rates and a high level of quality compared to the rest of Europe. n Leader in Arts and Culture

Germany is Europe’s Number 2 in terms of the number of cultural tourists. Numerous art treasures and cultural landscapes make the country an attractive destination for both travel and meetings: museums, theatres, castles and other landmarks lend Germany a unique atmosphere.

n An excellent image with “no limits” “Made in Germany” quality is still a trademark, even in the realm of conferences and events. This has been proven by a National Brands Index (NBI) study, conducted by the GFK Custom Research North America together with marketing expert Simon Anholt. The subjects of the study were 20 industrial states and developing countries in the categories of export, government, culture and tourism. The result: Germany has the best image-nation.

n Groundbreaking quality of life

According to a further Mercer study, Germany also sets a high benchmark in terms of quality of life. Three German metropolises can be found amongst the worldwide Top Ten “Quality of Living” rankings: Düsseldorf, Munich and Frankfurt/Main.

n Top in Research and Development Germany, the country that prides itself in the invention of letterpress printing, the diesel engine, the airbag and the MP3-format, is still known as a market-leading science and high-tech location. Numerous technological, science and research facilities attest to this. The country is home to several renowned inventors and thinkers, the pioneer of the automobile industry, Carl Friedrich Benz, for example, and the Heidelberg scientist, Harald von Hausen, who won the Nobel Prize in Medicine for his tumour research in 2008.

n One country – many possibilities Be it a sector gathering beneath a solar roof, a meeting in a high-tech centre or a guided tour through an industrial park: Germany offers the perfect framework for your meeting – cultural highlights included.

n Calculated infrastructure, excellent connections Germany is renowned for its superb transport infrastructure. The network of German Autobahns (motorways) – some 11,000km in all - is reputed to be one of the most innovative and efficient networks in the world. 18 international and 14 regional airports, as well as ca. 40,000km of railway ensure that you and your participants are brought to your destination on time.

n Green Light for “Green Meetings”

Germany has always occupied a cutting-edge role in matters of energy efficiency and protecting the environment. A milestone: more than 110 million tones of CO2 were already saved in 2007 by using renewable sources of energy. In the future, research and development for energy saving schemes and renewable energy projects will be promoted intensively, e.g. the proportion of renewable energy used in power supply is to be elevated to around 30%. No wonder then, that Germany offers ideal conditions for “green” meetings and events.

WHY GERMANY?

GERMANY'S REGIONS

Germany’s Regions 1. Hamburg and Northern Germany - Hamburg, Bremen, Lübeck, Rostock

2. Hanover and the Centre of Germany - Hanover, Bielefeld, Kassel, Osnabrück, Wolfsburg

3. Berlin and Potsdam

4. Dresden, Leipzig and Eastern Germany - Dresden, Erfurt, Halle (Saale), Leipzig, Magdeburg, Weimar

5. Cologne, Bonn, Düsseldorf and Western Germany - Bonn, Düsseldorf, Cologne

6. Frankfurt and Rhine-Main/Neckar - Frankfurt/Main, Mainz, Wiesbaden, Darmstadt, Heidelberg, Mannheim

7. Stuttgart and Southwest Germany - Stuttgart, Baden-Baden, Karlsruhe, Freiburg

8. Munich, Nuremberg and Bavaria - Munich, Nuremberg, Würzburg, Tegernsee Region

Travemünde

Westergellersen

Werder

Bad Driburg

Oberhausen

Bad Wildungen

Siegburg

Nürburg

Montabaur Bad Nauheim

Fulda

Niedernhausen Hanau Offenbach Neu-Isenburg

Bad Gögging Offenburg

Balingen

Ottobrunn Überlingen Tegernsee

HAMBURG AND NORTHERN GERMANY

Hamburg and Northern Germany n Hanseatic traditions & innovative impulses

amburg and the North is one of Germany’s most dynamic economic and scientific regions, famous for its cosmopolitan flair and diversity: conference participants and holiday-makers alike are attracted to this region by its variety of coastlines and cities, culture and science, as well as high-tech and tradition. Hamburg is a renowned location for science and innovation. The metropolis boasts unusual event locations that offer excellent possibilities for meetings and events. For example, Germany’s only floating event and conference centre can be found next to the old “Speicherstadt” – the old warehouse district – and is ideal for impressive events. The city centre offers superb social and accompanying programme opportunities with beautiful shopping malls, the “Alster” lake and worldfamous fish market. Bremen, the “boom-town” of the North, is a real hightech location. This port city is one of the most important European DASA Aerospace space centres and principal German aerospace site. The Technology Park and Science Centres are further impressive science locations in Bremen. Memorable accompanying and social programme elements can be found in the picturesque “Altstadt” – the old part of the city.

The Hanseatic city of Rostock, with its Baltic resort of Warnemünde, (special highlight is the Warnemünder Week – an extraordinary sailing event) offers a very attractive environment for conferences, not least thanks to its scenic Old Town and extensive beaches. The Hanseatic city of Lübeck, with the Baltic resort town of Travemünde, is birthplace to the internationally distinguished “Lübecker Marzipan”. Its historic buildings are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and at the same time it is the largest sea port in Europe.

Hanover and the Centre of Germany n Top fairs and top locations

anover, an exhibition location and site of the seminal EXPO 2000, has profiled itself as one of the most reputable and powerful host metropolises in Germany. The CeBIT IT trade show and the most important technology fair worldwide – the Hanover Fair – attract international experts and other interested parties alike. There are several further extraordinary locations outside of the state capital: for example, the stately assembly hall at the beautiful Osnabrück castle is available for conferences. Henry the Lion’s former royal residence in Braunschweig is now a stronghold for research and development, such as the headquarters of the German Aerospace Centre – the Deutsche Zentrum für Luftund Raumfahrt. And Bielefeld’s Ravensberger Park offers modern conference infrastructure in the historical spinning works. The automobile city of Wolfsburg enchants with its own world of commotion. This venue, with its activity and competency centres focused on automotive and mobility, offers a fascinating environment for the most varied of events. A further point of innovation in Wolfsburg is the “phaeno” – an innovative science museum with breathtaking experimental scenery, in which exciting phenomena from science and technology can be marvelled at and understood.

HANOVER AND THE CENTRE OF GERMANY

BERLIN AND POTSDAM

Berlin and Potsdam n The Nation’s heart and centre of decision-making

erlin is not only a prestigious capital city, but also the centre of decision-making in Germany. The metropolis’ impressive history is noticeable in many places, e.g. at the Brandenburg Gate or in the Berlin Cathedral (Dom). Berlin gets its unique flair not only from imposing landmarks such as the Reichstag and the Museum Island, but also from various other artistic and cultural locations. Berlin’s congress infrastructure is as equally unique as the city itself: exclusive event venues include “axica”, Frank O. Gehry’s architectural multimedia experience beside the Brandenburg Gate. Berlin’s pulsating atmosphere is further enhanced by its extensive science and research landscape on the city outskirts - ideal for congresses of all sorts. In addition to the universities and the Max-Planck- and Fraunhofer Institutes, Berlin’s newest establishments can be found in the biomedical research campus of Berlin-Buch and at the Berlin-Adlershof science and economics site. Brandenburg’s state capital Potsdam is multi-faceted. Its most prominent attraction is undoubtedly Sanssouci

Palace. However, historic quarters such as the Dutch Quarters – “Holländisches Viertel” – or the former crown estate of the Prussian Crown, Bornstedt, attest to Potsdam’s impressive history. The famous film park of Babelsberg sets further accents.

DRESDEN, LEIPZIG AND EASTERN GERMANY

Dresden, Leipzig and Eastern Germany n Advanced civilization and high-tech

resden is a cultural metropolis and a high-tech location all in one. The city itself along with the surrounding “Florence on the Elbe” presents a multitude of highlights for sophisticated leisure activities. Saxony’s state capital has also made a name for itself as a scientific location. First and foremost, forward-looking areas of technology, such as the IT and microelectronics industries, have found their homes here. Leipzig, known as the trade fair city of the East, is not only home to the famous Leipzig Book Fair. Other historical locations, such as the main train station – a symbiosis of historical architecture and shopping malls – may also be used as exclusive event locations. A further culturally interesting place is the ancient Lutheran city of Erfurt, a picture book of German history. One of the best-kept medieval city centres of Germany is shaped by the cathedral, the St. Severi Church, lavishly

furnished Patrician houses and charming half-timber buildings, as well as by the famous Krämerbrücke. Why not visit Weimar, Goethe’s hub of activity and European City of Culture of 1999? This is where Walter Gropius triggered a true design revolution by founding the “Bauhaus” style in 1919. Halle is just as interesting: this city of art by the Saale not only houses Handel’s birthplace, but also accommodates one of the world’s oldest learned societies and a 600-year old university. Saxony-Anhalt’s state capital Magdeburg boasts a multitude of science and event locations. Scientists from all over the world are attracted by the Max-Planck Institute for the Dynamics of Complex Technical Systems or the Leibniz Institute for Neurobiology.

COLOGNE, BONN, DÜSSELDORF AND WESTERN GERMANY

Cologne, Bonn, Düsseldorf and Western Germany n Urban flair and fascinating locations

estern Germany convinces with its central location, excellent connections to the rest of Europe and congress and event locations in all varieties: the Ruhr area and Dortmund, with its selection of decommissioned industrial plants featuring the most modern meeting technologies, offer an extraordinary atmosphere for conventions. Ruhr.2010 – European Capital of Culture: this is the title of the project that will enshrine Essen and the Ruhr area as a cultural metropolis in 2010. At present, numerous exciting initiatives have been put in place to achieve this, e.g. “KIT” (Creativity – Innovation – Action), which graphically illustrates the history of mining in the region, as well as the Biennial for International Light Art and much more.

Meeting venues in the former German federal capital, Bonn, easily measure up on an international basis: the “Tagen am Rhein” – “Meet on the Rhine” – congress highlights on, in and above the water, “Tagen wie die UNO” – “Meet like the UN” – meet at prestigious locations, and the spectacular “Tagen wie das Parlament” – “Meet like Parliament” – in the former plenary hall of the Bundestag, which has been remodelled into an ultra-modern Congress Centre.

Cologne exhibits all facets of urban life – from high art to high-tech. As fourth largest city in Germany, Cologne has become one of the oldest and most important economic, commercial and financial centres in Central Europe. The largest university, as well as the largest university of applied sciences in Germany are located here. The cathedral city has developed into an international trade fair, culture and media location. The photokina and Art Cologne – the worldwide oldest fair for modern art – are two famous exhibitions. For all sorts of congresses, we would also suggest slightly less conventional event locations, such as the Chocolate Factory in the Chocolate Museum, the RheinEnergieStadion, home to the 1. FC Köln, or the historic Gürzenich, the city’s “parlour”. North-Rhine-Westphalia’s state capital, Düsseldorf, is the centre of the IT industry, an international business hub and a charming fashion metropolis all in one. The largest fashion fair in the world, the CPD, is an absolute must for fashion experts, as is the international shoe fair – also the global number one in its field. Further, there are numerous other locations, such as the K21 museum, available for hire. Not to be missed: the longest bar in the world can be found in the Old City of Düsseldorf and is an obligatory meeting point for social programme activities.

FRANKFURT AND RHINE-MAIN/NECKAR

Frankfurt and Rhine-Main/Neckar n Pulsating cities & romantic countryside

he Rhine-Main area is one the most productive and dynamic regions in Europe. The region shines with its excellent traffic connections and perfect conditions for all types of events. Frankfurt lies in the heart of this area: it prides itself as a financial hub with the second largest airport in Europe and as an exhibition centre with internationally renowned fairs such as the Frankfurt Book Fair and IAA – the International Automobile Trade Fair. Moreover, Frankfurt is the centre of one of Europe’s strongest knowledge regions, featuring numerous innovative businesses. Ultra-modern congress centres as well as interesting event locations in the many museums along the Main river bank invite you to participate in professional conferences. But the area has much more to offer: Johannes Gutenberg’s birthplace, Mainz, is still a modern-day home to media and offers many advantages. Not only does the ZDF, Europe’s largest public-sector television broadcaster, have its headquarters here, but other top-class industrial businesses, such as IBM, the Schott Glassworks and the Institute of Micro-technology, are all based here. The former imperial city of Wiesbaden boasts a casino and spa. With its 26 hot springs, the legendary KaiserFriedrich-Spa has been a perfect place of relaxation for 2,000 years. The city of Darmstadt captivates visitors with a selection of architectural highlights, such as the Art Nouveau artist’s colony on the “Mathildenhöhe”. Other highlights include

the “Waldspirale” after Friedrich Hundertwasser or the classical Moller Theatre. Science also has a high priority here: The Technical University, the birthplace of the radio-controlled clock, is amongst the leading technical universities in Germany. Darmstadt is also a capital of European aerospace, hosting the Eumetsat, Europe’s meteorological centre, and the Esoc, Europe’s “Houston” in terms of aerospace. Germany’s oldest University City, Heidelberg, is wellknown far beyond its reaches. Numerous scientific and economic research facilities reside in this romantic backdrop, so for instance the European Laboratory for Molecular Biology, the German Cancer Research Centre as well as five Max-Planck Institutes.You can find attractive meeting and event locations in the venerable university buildings or in the historical castle. Automotive pioneer Carl Benz performed his works in the multi-faceted city of Mannheim. Locals and guests can discover majestic monuments and an extensive offer of cultural and shopping attractions. The Water Tower, the Electoral Palace and the Jesuit Church all set historical accents as numerous museums and galleries present impressive exhibits - the Reiss-Engelhorn-Museum or the State Museum for Engineering and Labour (“Landesmuseum für Technik und Arbeit”) for example. Furthermore, there are numerous possibilities for auxiliary activities. Offers range from wine tasting by the “Bergstraße”, spa relaxation in an exclusive Taunus resort to boat trips through the enchanting meanders of the Neckar valley.

STUTTGART AND SOUTHWEST GERMANY

Stuttgart and Southwest Germany n Prospering economy and impressive highlights

tuttgart, embedded in one of the most charming landscapes and surrounded by vineyards, is one of the most innovative metropolitan regions in Germany. The unique mixture of internationally-known enterprises and innovative smaller firms constitutes the global importance of this region. The area of science, research and development around Stuttgart is the major automobile location for brands such as Mercedes and Porsche. But electronics, electro-technology and engineering, as well as environmental technology are key industries to this region too. Alongside high-tech, the city also offers “High Culture”, ranging from the famous Stuttgart Ballet to spectacular exhibitions in the new National Gallery. Baden-Baden, the city of festivals and bathhouses on the periphery of the Black Forest, is another interesting meeting location. The casino is the largest and oldest in Germany and is known as the most beautiful casino in the world. The impressive festival hall hosts a variety of famous artists and the elite of contemporary art is

exhibited at the “Frieder Burda” museum, built by star architect Richard Meyer. Karlsruhe is one of the most innovative locations in Germany, a “fan city” with lifestyle. An abundance of scientific and research establishments creates an atmosphere conducive to holding meetings; many businesses that are active in future markets are based in and around Karlsruhe. The cosmopolitan and sunny Black Forest metropolis of Freiburg is spoilt by the sun. It is the most southern German city and is marked by a mixture of Mediterranean flair and hospitality distinct to the Baden region. An attractive climate and a balanced supply of cultural and recreational activities offer a pleasant environment for conference guests.

MUNICH, NUREMBERG AND BAVARIA

Munich, Nuremberg and Bavaria n Path-breaking technology and pure nature

avaria is known and liked worldwide for its distinctive charm – and by its highly versatile economic structure. The southern-most German state and its capital, Munich, are extremely well-connected and lay claim to a broad palette of growth industries. Munich and its surrounding region have developed into a superb location for economics and science. Leaders in these fields are, amongst others, the automotive industry (BMW), bio- and information technology and the aerospace industry. But Bavaria’s vast mountains, deep forests and crystal-clear lakes also make it into a sensational nature and recreational state.Visitors from all over the world are drawn to King Ludwig II’s castles, with Neuschwanstein Castle – Walt Disney’s model for Cinderella’s Castle – leading the way, followed by Linderhof Castle with its enchanting water fountain. Tegernsee Lake is situated only 30km south of Munich, embedded in picturesque Alpine foothills. This area offers excellent water quality, a large variety of activity

or relaxation possibilities including Germany’s strongest source of iodine – which gives meeting participants an opportunity to revive. Bavaria also entices you with further destinations, e.g. Nuremberg, Bavaria’s largest industrial location, which also offers a wonderfully restored Old City. The former Tullnaupark industrial site and the historical St. Peter tram depot are amongst some of the unusual event locations on offer here. Würzburg is an attractive address for impressive events. You can host your congress in the medieval Marienburg fortress, in the Steinberg country house hotel or in one of the most beautiful European stately wine cellars – including real Franconian wine tasting.

USE SYNERGIES. PLAN PROFESSIONALLY. ALL WITH THE GCB.

Use synergies. Plan professionally. All with the GCB.

Profit from the following services that the GCB has to offer: ■■ Preparation of material about Germany as a congress

location for presentations to deciding panels ■■ Searching and finding event venues that meet congress

requirements. Obtain the applicable quotation ■■ Sourcing a Professional Congress Organizer (PCO)

and obtaining quotations ■■ Compilation of proposal portfolios with a Germany-

presentation

re you interested in Germany as an event location? Then you have come to the right place. We, the German Convention Bureau e.V., are your central contact for all congresses and meetings in Germany. We are here to make your event a full success. We have more than 250 members and we combine leading national providers, such as hotels and congress centres, cities and event agencies under “one roof ”. This greatly facilitates the planning and organisation of your events and meetings. Use our planning service: we are happy to offer you a custom-made proposal, convey other contact persons and accompany you on your way to a mutual goal: the perfect event. Naturally our services are free of charge for you!

■■ Organisation of on-site inspections for national or

international decision makers: ■■ Appointment coordination ■■ Selection of free train tickets within Germany for organisers ■■ Selection of free flight tickets for international decision-makers ■■ Assistance in finding accommodation ■■ Partner relaying for pre- and post-convention tours ■■ Contacts with Lufthansa for Official Airline contracts ■■ Guidance with respect to congress planning – gladly in

a personal dialogue All of the GCB’s services and information are completely free of charge for you!

MEETING CALENDAR GERMANY

n our website www.gcb.de under “Meeting Calendar” you will find a preview of meetings in Germany for the next 12 months.

n Use this Meeting Calendar as a means to advertise your conference! We would be happy to publish your meeting free of charge and post a link to your organisation’s website. Please send us an e-mail to info@gcb.de with the following details:

Meeting calendar Germany

This meeting calendar contains international and national meetings from 50 attendees upwards. This list is not intended to be final and will continually be changed and amended.

■■ Meeting name ■■ City ■■ Venue ■■ Date (from/to) ■■ Number of expected attendees ■■ Congress website

Lufthansa Meetings & Events – your travel solution

ufthansa Meetings & Events is the new booking tool for all event operators and organisers. Lufthansa will support you in planning your event – be it a fair, a congress or an incentive trip; inland, in Europe or somewhere else in the world; be it for several participants or several thousand.

be effortless.Your participants will receive personalised access data to Lufthansa’s online booking portal, where flights at pre-arranged conditions can be viewed and booked. Travel times can be selected up to two weeks prior to and following an event and participants may bring an additional accompanying person.

This new tool is easy to use, offers the possibility for a quick enquiry and highly individual solutions. For your enquiry, all you have to do is fill in a short online form, and Lufthansa will come up with a proposal suited to your needs.

Enjoy excellent service with Lufthansa’s Meetings & Events and an optimal connection to your national and international meetings with more than 200 destinations in 80 countries.

You, as event organiser, will not need to worry about your attendees’ flight arrivals and their coordination will

Further information and your personalized offer can be found under lufthansa.com/meetingsandevents

THE DEUTSCHE BAHN AG

The Deutsche Bahn AG – mobility and train service provider for large events n Your Event Ticket: Reach your destination by train, bus and chauffeur!

re you organising meetings, congresses and events and expect smooth, cross-transportation network mobility at attractive conditions? The Deutsche Bahn’s Event Ticket combines all of these requirements in one solution.

Our tailor-made offer for your event allows attendees to travel to their destination train station, either individually on Deutsche Bahn trains, or as a large group in a specially chartered train. Here, our most modern and comfortable coaches await them to transfer them to the event venue. Or, if requested, they can be transferred by chauffeured limousine.

As an event organiser you profit from our all-round one stop shop solutions’ planning and calculation security, as well as from professional and competent advice. We would be happy to provide you with a tailor-made offer with flexible billing arrangements and will organise uninterrupted transfer to and from your event on demand. We look forward to your enquiry! Please write to us at: veranstaltungen@bahn.de

Overview Convention capacities

Frankfurt RhineMain / Neckar

Cologne, Bonn, Düsseldorf

Dresden, Leipzig and Eastern Germany

Berlin

Munich Nuremberg and Bavaria

Stuttgart

Karlsruhe

Hamburg

19.000

k.A.

Lübeck

1.325

Bielefeld

5.500

140.000

Number of beds

Number of rooms

k.A.

Number of houses

Double room in ! from - to

Number of seminar centres

Single room in ! from - to

Total exhibition area in m"

41.000

Number of beds

Number of rooms

Number of universities

Number of houses

Total exhibition area in m"

Bremen

City

Hotel capacities and price ranges

Total exhibition area in m"

Number of meeting rooms

Meetings in seminar centres

Number of congress centres

Meetings in universities

Number of meeting centres

Hannover and Central Germany

Hamburg and the North

Regions

Meetings in Congress centres

9.910

405

730

135 - 265

155 - 315

1.995

3.660

ca. 3135

2.611

k.A.

90 - 200

100 - 250

8.885

k.A.

ca. 2.000

224

448

131-179

142-198

636

1.183

k.A.

1.096

127 - 457

176 - 537

7.040

9.860 406

5* Hotels

4* Hotels

Braunschweig

5.000

500

3.200

Hannover

18.500

18.000

150

12.00

146

200

Osnabrück

3.093

ca. 2.000

ca. 40

k.A.

203

Wolfsburg

4.741

1.519

174

348

ab 205

501

861

Berlin

k.A.

57.900

k.A.

k.A

k.A.

6.588

12.508

160 - 385

k.A.

104

18.691

32.092

Dresden

36.007

k.A.

k.A

k.A.

1.117

2.101

119 - 465

129 - 465

2.997

5.439

Halle/Saale

k.A.

179

150

150 - 500

996

1.684

Leipzig

114.393

k.A.

5.995

759

1.370

ab 99

ab 119

3.439

5.843

Magdeburg

17.932

1.546

2.766

Bonn

2.700

k.A.

120

5.450

280

530

100 - 120

130 - 160

1.050

1.800

Düsseldorf

552

346.128

1.500

7.420

549

1.439

155 - 580

185 - 580

6.772

1.011

Cologne

284.000

143

k.A.

141

k.A.

2.022

3.568

125 - 459

158 - 494

5.619

10.111

614

1.106

100 - 300

120 - 360

10.752

11.736

Darmstadt

18.000

k.A.

Frankfurt

323.399

1.190

314

334.342

6.201

8.606

Heidelberg

600

1.000

500

k.A.

198

129 - 209

158 - 270

k.A.

1.320

Mainz

4.269

200

k.A.

268

315

154 - 314

ab 179

1.335

2.562

Stuttgart

141

131.189

1.565

596

983

ab 160

ab 200

3.982

7.078

Munich

200

38.931

k.A.

179

3.726

2.060

3.887

170 - 290

k.a.

5.493

10.365

Nuremberg

162.500

100

10.000

180

14.000

166

330

105 - 350

145 - 400

1.941

3.481

Tegernsee

k.A.

305

577

132 - 238

103 - 165

387

716

Karlsruhe

91.750

k.A.

206

332.278

180

300

128 - 418

182 - 478

1.780

2.600

* University rooms are not available for private hire. No responsibility is taken for the correctness of the information

Hotel capacities and price ranges guest houses/ private accomodation

Number of houses

Number of rooms

Number of beds

Single room in ! from - to

Double room in ! from - to

Number of houses

Number of rooms

Number of beds

Single room in ! from - to

Double room in ! from - to

Number of houses

Number of rooms

Number of beds

Single room in ! from - to

Double room in ! from - to

2* and 1* Hotels

Double room in ! from - to

3* Hotels

Single room in ! from - to

Hamburg and the North

Regions

4* Hotels

Bremen

65 - 200

80 - 250

1.233

2.100

50 - 120

70 - 140

700

1.300

30 - 85

45 - 100

ca. 200

ca. 500

k.A.

Hamburg

50 - 150

60 - 170

4.864

k.A.

30 - 100

40 - 120

3.192

k.A.

20 - 60

25 - 65

ca. 100

k.A.

69-237

89-274

414

802

50-99

75-135

142

283

37-89

62-119

30-52

50-80

City

Lübeck

Hannover and Central Germany

Bielefeld Braunschweig

40 - 179

50 - 195

k.A.

789

49 - 189

59 - 209

k.A.

490

41 - 152

49 - 152

k.A.

27 - 48

48 - 64

Hannover

85 - 160

110 - 270

3.960

6.330

75 - 140

100 - 220

880

1.060

40 - 60

70 - 120

220

250

25 - 50

40 - 100

Osnabrück

90 - 153

110 - 309

273

448

59 - 99

86 - 295

419

670

45 - 72

74 - 86

29 - 40

50 - 75

ab 87

ab 100

463

662

ab 52,50

ab 69,50

260

ab 20

ab 30

Wolfsburg

Cologne, Bo Düsseldorf Frankfurt RhineMain / Neckar Munich Nuremberg and Bavaria

Stuttgart

Bonn

2.700

k.A.

120

5.450

280

530

100 - 120

130 - 160

1.050

1.800

Düsseldorf

552

346.128

1.500

7.420

549

1.439

155 - 580

185 - 580

6.772

1.011

Cologne

284.000

143

k.A.

141

k.A.

Darmstadt

18.000

k.A.

Frankfurt

323.399

1.190

314

334.342

6.201

8.606

2.022 3.568 125 - 459 158 - 494 41 5.619 10.111 Overview Hotel capacities and price ranges

120 - 360

614

1.106

10.752

11.736

Heidelberg

600

1.000

500

k.A.

198

129 - 209

158 - 270

k.A.

1.320

Mainz

4.269

200

k.A.

268

315

154 - 314

ab 179

1.335

2.562

Stuttgart

141

131.189

1.565

596

983

ab 160

ab 200

3.982

7.078

Munich

200

38.931

k.A.

179

3.726

2.060

3.887

170 - 290

k.a.

5.493

10.365 3.481

Nuremberg

162.500

100

10.000

180

14.000

166

330

105 - 350

145 - 400

1.941

Tegernsee

k.A.

305

577

132 - 238

103 - 165

387

716

Karlsruhe

91.750

k.A.

206

332.278

180

300

128 - 418

182 - 478

1.780

2.600

Overview Hotel capacities and price ranges Karlsruhe

100 - 300

* University rooms are not available for private hire. No responsibility is taken for the correctness of the information

Hotel capacities and price ranges guest houses/ private accomodation

Number of houses

Number of rooms

Number of beds

Single room in ! from - to

Double room in ! from - to

Number of houses

Number of rooms

Number of beds

Single room in ! from - to

Double room in ! from - to

Number of houses

Number of rooms

Number of beds

Single room in ! from - to

Double room in ! from - to

2* and 1* Hotels

Double room in ! from - to

3* Hotels

Single room in ! from - to

Hamburg and the North

Regions

4* Hotels

Bremen

65 - 200

80 - 250

1.233

2.100

50 - 120

70 - 140

700

1.300

30 - 85

45 - 100

ca. 200

ca. 500

k.A.

Hamburg

50 - 150

60 - 170

4.864

k.A.

30 - 100

40 - 120

3.192

k.A.

20 - 60

25 - 65

ca. 100

k.A.

69-237

89-274

414

802

50-99

75-135

142

283

37-89

62-119

30-52

50-80

City

Lübeck

Hannover and Central Germany

Bielefeld

Cologne, Bonn, Düsseldorf

Dresden, Leipzig and Eastern Germany

Berlin

Braunschweig

40 - 179

50 - 195

k.A.

789

49 - 189

59 - 209

k.A.

490

41 - 152

49 - 152

k.A.

27 - 48

48 - 64

Hannover

85 - 160

110 - 270

3.960

6.330

75 - 140

100 - 220

880

1.060

40 - 60

70 - 120

220

250

25 - 50

40 - 100

Osnabrück

90 - 153

110 - 309

273

448

59 - 99

86 - 295

419

670

45 - 72

74 - 86

ab 87

ab 100

463

662

ab 52,50

ab 69,50

Berlin

90 - 240

k.A.

151

10.127

21.979

74 - 178

k.A.

5.122

9.145

50 - 86

Dresden

59 - 199

65 - 249

2.049

3.824

40 - 140

35 - 150

1.144

1.843

Halle/Saale

51 - 110

63 - 280

386

582

40 - 55

55 - 76

Wolfsburg

Leipzig

Frankfurt RhineMain / Neckar Munich Nuremberg and Bavaria Karlsruhe

29 - 40

50 - 75

260

ab 20

ab 30

k.A.

299

5.899

21.960

k.A.

36 - 84

47 - 122

k.A.

26 - 51

40 - 76

16 - 30

28 - 65

ab 29

ab 39

ca.96

ab 28

ab 44

ca. 6824 ca. 12243

ab 51

1.827

3.223

ab 32

ab 41

574

1.311

Magdeburg

63 - 150

85 - 200

551

979

42 - 92

51 - 112

Bonn

70 - 200

50 - 160

820

1400

40 - 130

60 - 160

145

195

60 - 80

70 - 100

ca. 10

ca. 18

35 - 65

k.A.

Düsseldorf

90 - 510

110 - 540

3.453

4.684

40 - 395

58 - 399

k.A.

4.684

35 - 190

50 - 250

900

ø 1,5

k.A.

49 - 55

77 - 89

Cologne Darmstadt

Stuttgart

6 35

Frankfurt

128

218

23 - 5038,50 - 134

93 - 348

108 - 370

110

4.300

7.248

62 - 190

85 - 220

2.453

4.387

45 - 169

67 - 200

k.A.

110 - 160

170 - 200

3.490

6.790

80 - 100

100 - 150

1.267

1.766

60 - 80

80 - 100

491

652

40 - 60

60 - 80 70 - 95

80 - 200

100 - 250

100

6.573

10.198

60 - 120

90 - 200

1.684

2.952

45 - 95

65 - 100

1028

k.A.

5.420

45 - 75

100 - 215

110 - 215

k.A.

597

59 - 110

79 - 148

k.A.

458

59 - 85

79 - 115

k.A.

ab 35

ab 50

93 - 275

ab 113

768

1.218

63 - 119

ab 83

144

212

59 - 75

k.A.

30 - 45

45 - 60

Stuttgart

110 - 160

170 - 200

3.490

6.790

80 - 100

100 - 150

1.267

1.766

60 - 80

80 - 100

491

652

40 - 60

60 - 80

Munich

110 - 200

k.A.

206

13.734

25.913

80 - 120

k.A.

6.180

11.660

50 - 90

k.A.

60 - 340

76 - 397

1.869

3.341

45 - 240

55 - 280

780

1.156

56 - 108

61 - 137

180

288

15 - 68

34 - 98

297

599

16 - 100

20 - 70

35 - 70

70 - 99

600

780

24 - 58

34 - 72

Heidelberg Mainz

Nuremberg Tegernsee Karlsruhe

61 - 210

51 - 165

184

36 - 80

32 - 50

105 - 120

120 - 179

1890

2800

75 - 95

80 - 105

500

700

* University rooms are not available for private hire. No responsibility is taken for the correctness of the information

Overview Hotel chains

Overview Hotel chains n Our partner hotels

Hotelgruppe

Website

Accor Hotels

http://www.accorhotels.com

ArabellaStarwood Hotels & Resorts GmbH

http://www.arabellasheraton.com

Fairmont Hotels & Resorts

http://www.fairmont.de

Hilton Hotels

http://www.hilton.com

Hospitality Alliance AG

http://www.ramada.de

Hyatt Hotels

http://www.hyatt.com

InterContinental Hotels Group

http://www.ichotelsgroup.com

Jal Hotels Company Ltd.

http://www.jalhotels.com

Kempinski AG

http://www.kempinski.com

Lindner Hotels AG

http://www.lindner.de

Maritim Hotelgesellschaft mbH

http://www.maritim.de

Marriott International-Continental Europe

http://www.marriott.de

M枚venpick Hotels & Resorts

http://www.moevenpick-hotels.com

Neue Dorint GmbH

http://www.dorint.com

NH Hoteles Deutschland GmbH

http://www.nh-hotels.de

Steigenberger Hotels AG

http://www.steigenberger.com

Swiss么tel Hotel & Resorts

http://www.swissotel.com

The Rezidor Hotel Group

http://www.rezidor.com

The Rocco Forte Collection

http://www.roccofortecollection.com

PCO – Professional Congress Organiser

PCO – Professional Congress Organiser – the experienced planning partner by your side

re you planning a meeting or a congress? People often underestimate the expenses, complexity and work that preparations entail. Many details need to be taken into account, from preparation via delivery to follow-up after the event. So for example, over a longer period of time, you will need personnel resources, planning tools for calculating budgets and planning tasks, as well as infrastructural requirements for delivery. To make your event a full success, you will need a professional organisation to help. At the GCB’s PCOs, you will find experts who have had many years of experience and can supply and deliver

services from one single source. Furthermore, through their experience, creativity and ideas, as well as their special involvement and commitment to clients (e.g. through advance financing), they will help you carry potential non-appreciable risks as they take responsibility for many areas. You can find further information about PCOs, their requirements and offers, as well as a list of top German PCO addresses under www.germany-meetings.com/pco

Incentive, social and accompanying programmes: ideas across the Republic

n Hamburg: Exciting city rally through Hamburg Discover Hamburg in a different way and participate in an exciting city rally through the old and new parts of the city, or through the historical “Speicherstadt” – the old warehouse district – and adjoining “HafenCity” – harbour city. Your scouting expedition through the hanseatic city will not only present you and your colleagues with challenging tasks but you will also learn a lot about the history of Hamburg itself.You can choose between the city rally “Hamburg Classic” if you want to find out more about the old part of the city, “Hamburg Adventure” if you are itching for adventure, or “Hamburg for geniuses” if you want to choose your own order of tasks to be completed. Alternatively, join the “Störtebekers treasure hunt” in the historical “Speicherstadt” if you want to become a buccaneer.

n Rostock: Full speed ahead! Speed sailing on a Volvo Ocean Racer “Fasten your seat belts” – in a speed rush on a real Volvo Ocean Racer.

n Bremen, city of aerospace

Unique in Europe: experience space travel up close. In the Hanseatic city of Bremen you can see, feel and walk around space programmes and projects being developed by the European space company, Astrium.

How do astronauts live, work and sleep in space? What do they do in their free time in such a high-tech environment? You can find answers to these questions at the Astrium GmbH factory, where the International Space Station ISS modules are manufactured and assembled.You can walk around and view an original ISS module and see original Ariane launch vehicle hardware (so-called propulsion stages).

Welcome on board this unforgettable and unique experience! Climb on and experience the full sensation and fascination of fast and dynamic sailing in an ultramodern racing-approved Volvo Ocean 60 Regatta yacht! The most notable thing about the Ocean Racer is that it was built to the limits: it only consists of light materials – even the mast is 700kg lighter than on other sailing boats. The Ocean Racer is a pure racing vessel, with a length of 19.50m and a depth of 3.82m. There are only 20 Ocean Racers in the world! Even at low winds this ship will reach speeds two to three times that of normal sailing yachts. Depending on your mood, you can perform various manoeuvres that everyone on board can participate in. If you dare, you can take a look at the ship from above – with double harnesses the crew will pull you up to the top of the mast. Enjoy the breathtaking views and take a few commemorative photos. It’s just the icing on your sailing cake!

I ncentive, social and accompanying programmes: ideas across the Republic

n Wolfsburg: Automotive city in Wolfsburg The Wolfsburg automotive city presents the Volkswagen group with all its values, technical knowledge and brands in a unique ambience.You can experience off-road driving on the terrain-course along the Mittelland-Canal. A special challenge awaits you on a 1km-long runway: a deep water ditch, a sand bunker, a seesaw, stairs and a swaying bridge all want to be mastered by you during your 30-minute tour in a Volkswagen Touareg. The terrain-course combines exciting automobile tasks with certified safety. Experienced drivers and beginners alike will get their money’s worth.

n Berlin: Trabant motor-rally through the capital city including activities, sights and many personalities Let your visitors discover small and big surprises rambling through Berlin. The Trabant-rally starts with a game, splitting the guests into groups consisting of one driver, one navigator and passengers. Each group can be accompanied by a so-called “City sights annotator”, who describes city sights on the way. The groups make their way in little cars from Zwickau, equipped with a road book containing hints, questions and tasks. However, before they are released into the jungle of the big city, the rally participants need to prove their cultcar driving skills on the agility course. Several tasks need to be completed as a group or simply while controlling the steering wheel.

The guests need to master various tasks that they will encounter off the beaten track. The solutions are captured by Polaroid camera. The route leads the visitors to a selection of personalities from Berlin’s history, such as the “Alter Fritz” – King Frederick of Prussia, illustrating Berlin’s glamorous past during the Prussian era. Later they come across a “VoPo” (Volkspolizist) – a member of the

GDR People’s Police checking entry visas from East to the West. n Dresden: VW group Glass Manufactory Volkswagen established their “Glass Manufactory” plant for luxury cars, right by the “Großer Garten” baroque park. Following the old Saxony tradition of handicraft, the car manufacturer manually assembled their precast parts here. However, the factory is not only an extraordinary assembly plant, but also a place for encounter and exchange. Use this ambience for your meetings!

n Leipzig: Cask Cellar Ceremony Anno Domini 1525

Wine serving began in the historical cask cellar in 1525 and is virtually the centrepiece of the Auerbach Keller. History comes alive when the barrel winemaker or even the devil invites you to the famous spectacle of the Cask Cellar Ceremony. This feast begins in the Mephisto Bar with the eponymous “Mephisto-Fire” cocktail. The winemaker leads you into a magical cellar that enthralled Goethe. Mentioned in Goethe’s classic work “Faust”, one can claim that it is probably the most well-known restaurant in Germany.

Alongside the cellar master’s stories, you will breathe the spirit, hear the melodies and see impressions of times gone by. The deepest room of the Auerbach Keller, the “Witches Kitchen”, i s open only during the ceremony. You do Mephisto and Faust justice here by drinking a cocktail of youth and letting it take effect during the rejuvenating ceremony. Whether this magic was sufficient for you to fly out of the cellar on a barrel is left up to you, but it should certainly not hinder you from enjoying the culinary delicacies that follow!

Incentive, social and accompanying programmes: ideas across the Republic

n Cologne: Touring the Cathedral’s roofs A stunning view of the cathedral and the city can be enjoyed following a short elevator ride to the top. Unknown rooms, such as the roof truss, tower room or the workshop can be found under the roof. A short walk up the spiral staircase leads to the triforium and makes way for an impressive view of the cathedral’s interior.

n Düsseldorf: Dragon-Boat events in the Medien Hafen harbour Undertake a regatta in teams of 10 or 20 people, or embark on a dreamlike paddle tour along Düsseldorf ’s skyline.

n Frankfurt: Wild Wild West in Frankfurt Immerse yourself and feel like a cowboy or a Red Indian in times of Winnetou and Old Shatterhand in this eccentric summer-location situated only ten minutes away from downtown Frankfurt.You can celebrate your event for 100 to max. 700 people in this Western town. Indulge in a piece of hearty grilled beef and practice your horseshoe and lasso-throwing skills or shoot an air-gun until the early morning hours.

n Hockenheim racetrack adventure

Get to know the Hockenheim Grand Prix / Formula 1 motor racing circuit from a different perspective and immerse yourself in the world of motor sports – thrills guaranteed!

The Centre for Traffic and Motor Sport Safety – VMZ – offers you this unique chance to hire out and use the Hockenheim track as an event venue. The range of services is broad and ranges from driver and safety

training to fun initiatives such as go-carting, race taxi and formula car drives. Turn into a race driver in a formula or touring vehicle. Experience pure motor sport feeling in a Reynard Formula or participate in a safety driving course with intensive supervision by a licensed driving coach. n Stuttgart: Baroque and relaxation – Ludwigsburg and the Neckar valley Ludwigsburg, which was originally chosen as the location for a summer residence in 1704, quickly developed into a palatial city during the reign of Duke Eberhard Ludwig. The magnificent Residence Palace is the centre of attention, surrounded by the no-less-splendid hunting chateau and “maison de plaisance” of Favorite and the small sea palace of Monrepos. The Residence Palace, boasting 452 rooms, is by far the largest baroque palace in Germany, and the surrounding 30 hectares of “Blooming Baroque”, with its fairy-garden and magnificent garden art from various epochs and regions, enchant visitors. Let the “valet de chambre” take you back in time to a splendid past with his stories about everyday life at Court. Relax on a boat ride through the idyllic Neckar valley including a view of Friedrich Schillers’ birthplace at Marbach. Round off the programme with a dinner of local specialties and selected wines from the region.

n Munich: Tour the roofs of the Olympic Stadium Have you ever dreamt of scrambling over the Olympic Stadium? Then get going! Check your gear, ascent on the North curve, edge along the world-famous roof and finally mount the apex 50m above the holy lawn! Munich’s’ scenery and the stadium will lie at your feet.

For further ideas and suggestions please feel free to contact the Event and Incentive Agencies in the GCB www.germany-meetings.com/incentives

IMEX

IMEX - incorporating Meetings made in Germany 25th-27th May 2010

he most important meetings and incentive travel fair in Germany, IMEX, could hardly be any more global if it tried. Congress planners can experience a unique atmosphere in which to exchange ideas and experience with like-minded colleagues. This makes IMEX the ideal gateway to search for new partners for your next event. More than 3,500 exhibitors from over 150 countries will present themselves at IMEX 2010. The GCB German Convention Bureau is IMEX’s strategic partner and organiser of the Germany stand, the largest with more than 165 suppliers.

At IMEX 2010, the GCB will once again offer free seminars on various subjects for event planners from companies, agencies and associations. By signing up to the trade fair you will automatically gain access to the GCB seminar days. For more information about the show, please go to www.imex-frankfurt.com

IMEX – Association Day 24th May 2010

vent planners from national and international associations have been meeting one day prior to the IMEX since 2003. Association professionals are drawn by the stimulating mix of themed sessions, round-table discussions on relevant issues and the chance to meet old

and new contacts in a great atmosphere.You can find more information about the Association Day under www.imex-frankfurt.com → What’s On → GCB Association Day

Choosing the right date

efore choosing the date for your congress, you should ensure that this does not clash with any other events and trade fairs, public or school holidays in Germany. In order to avoid this, we provide the following research capabilities: Trade fairs On the Association of German Trade Fair Industry website, www.auma-messen.com, you can find a search engine telling you whether a trade fair is taking place in your destination city during specific dates.You should avoid these times when events are taking place, as hotel room prices – given there is still capacity – are disproportionately high.

Public Holidays & School Holidays You can find an overview of german public and school holidays on the GCB Website, www.germany-meetings. com under Germany Holidays → Tips → Travel planning. Everything shuts down in Germany on public holidays, shops are closed and public transport runs a restricted service only

Why not stay longer?

1. Art and culture

as Max Liebermann, expressionists such as Emil Nolde and Max Beckmann, or Dadaists such as Max Ernst paved the way with their works for present-day experiments performed by innovators such as Joseph Beuys and Gerhard Richter. n Fashionable German art

Germany is Europe’s leading cultural destination and has the second-highest number of cultural tourists after France. More and more people from all over the world are beginning to value Germany’s cultural wealth of museums, theatres and castles. Memorable personalities worked and lived here and innumerable authentic destinations can be visited in the most varied fashion. Many places - such as Cologne Cathedral, a symbolic structure of national pride; Dresden, a conglomeration of art, music and architecture; and Weimar, home to German Classicism - are world-renowned destinations. Other attractions include the documenta world exhibition of contemporary art in Kassel, the Berlin Museum Island the largest museum in the world and the original stage of Bauhaus construction that served as the foundation of modern architecture and design. n Old but not rusty Europe’s art history was significantly shaped by old German masters. They created beautiful works of art by paintbrush, quill or chisel. Till this day, artists such as Albrecht Dürer, Lucas Cranach or Caspar David Friedrich illuminate churches, palaces, cathedrals and wonderful museums. Germany has played an important role in modern art even as far back as the 19th century. Impressionists such

Contemporary art has been gaining popularity in recent years. “Young German Artists” or “Neue Leipziger Schule” labels of modern art are associated with international recognition and top prices at auctions. Artists such as Gerhard Richter, Neo Rauch or Anselm Kiefer are known globally. The Düsseldorf Art Academy has spawned internationally renowned photo artists. And Thomas Struth, Thomas Ruff and Andreas Gursky are veiled by the artistic expression “Struffsky”, whose works can be found in exhibitions and collections all around the world. Make use of time before or after congresses to discover Germany’s memorable art and culture scenes. And if you prefer some hard facts and figures: Germany boasts about 6,200 museums including 500 art museums with approximately 100 million visitors every year. No comparable country has 300 theatres with 130 professional orchestras. There are 32 UNESCO World Heritage Sites and about 5,000 castles, most of which are open to visitors. 2. Gastronomy Germany is worth a visit – amongst other things for its culinary delights. Germans don’t just like to eat, but they are also excellent cooks: this finds proof in numerous gourmet-awards bestowed upon around 200 restaurants that show evidence of creativity and quality. Not only is the traditional hearty German middleclass cooking popular elsewhere, but the German gourmet-cuisine is finding more and more supporters, both nationally and internationally. This has many good reasons: a menu in a gourmet restaurant is an unforgettable feast for all senses. The atmosphere is superb and ranges from extraordinary modern architecture in cities to royal ambience in castles and palaces and to

Why not stay longer?

Rum was also imported to this most northern state in the 18th century. It was used to “warm up from the inside” and was consumed as grog (hot rum with water and sugar) or as a Pharisee (hot coffee with rum and whipped cream).

traditional-elegant hospitality in small villages and local communities. Attention to detail, hearty and friendly service create outstanding and memorable gourmet experiences. Germany’s many landscapes offer not only picturesque backgrounds: they also serve as a kitchen chef ’s supply store of premium products. Most operators have already conformed to the hotel and gastronomy industry’s rising demand for organic produce. According to a 2007 study by CHD Expert consultants, 54% of all hotels and 44% of all restaurants prefer organic products. This, indeed, is a growing trend. n Michelin Stars According to the 2009 Michelin guide (effective 2008), Germany offers nine three-star, 18 two-star and 189 onestar restaurants.

n You need to try this: Below you will find a selection of regional specialties that you or your guests should try:

Northern Germany Seafood is top of the list here. Favourites are crab soup, Matie à la “Hausfrauenart” – young herring in a sauce of cream and apples with onions and pickles – or “Finkenwerder Scholle” – fried plaice with bacon and onion bits. Due to a rather rough and windy climate, most food is hearty and filling, and a regular dish is “Birnen, Bohnen und Speck” – a stew of pears, beans and bacon. The popular red berry compote or “Rote Grütze”, a raspberry, blackcurrant and cherry jelly, is originally from the state of Schleswig-Holstein.

Berlin Berlin is the birthplace of the famous German “Currysausage” – a chopped up sausage covered with tomato ketchup and curry powder. Other Berliner creations are the “Kasseler” – smoked pork chop – as well as “Eisbein”– pickled knuckle of pork – with Sauerkraut. The latter is an international symbol of Germany, although “Eisbein” is rarely eaten by Germans nowadays. Accompany this meal with a drink of Berliner “Weiße” – beer with a shot of raspberry or sweet woodruff syrup. Rhineland No less than Julius Caesar was the founder of the Rhenish “Sauerbraten” – red wine, vinegar, vegetable and spice-marinated pot roast with raisins. Other dishes such as “Reibekuchen” – potato pancakes made with eggs and onions, or “Himmel und Erde” – mashed potatoes with apples, bacon, onions and black pudding – also symbolize this region and its produce. Thuringia The “Thüringer Bratwurst” now falls under EU trademark protection. According to regulations, this medium-fine sausage, seasoned with salt, pepper, caraway, marjoram and garlic, must be between 15cm and 20cm in length and is to be barbequed on a charcoal grill. Thuringian potato dumplings – “Kartoffelklöße” – are a further specialty and can be found in numerous variations.

Why not stay longer?

or can be enjoyed as a full meal with Sauerkraut, spicy mustard and thick bread.

Hesse/Frankfurt Hesse’s most popular drink is the “Ebbelwoi” or apple wine, a cider with alcoholic content of 5-6%.You can drink this bitter drink pure, mixed with lemonade (“süß gespritzt”) or with mineral water (“sauer gespritzt”). Frankfurt’s national dish is the “Grüne Soße” or green sauce, made of seven herbs – chervil, sorrel, borage, salad burnet, chives, parsley and dill. It is eaten as a supplement to cooked beef or with eggs and boiled potatoes. The actual “Frankfurters”, however, are thin smoked scalded pork sausages in a skin of natural intestines. Not every sausage is a “Frankfurter” though: the scalded sausage has been under origin protection since 1929. Baden-Württemberg The “Maultaschen” Swabian pockets are pasta squares filled with meat and spinach. They can be eaten in soup, fried with bacon and onions or roasted with butter and eggs. The most famous side dish from BadenWürttemberg is the “Spätzle” pasta. They are cooked in boiling water and served with fried beef and onions in gravy or lentils with scalded sausage. Bavaria Bavarian beer is famous all over the world. The largest German state boasts the highest density of breweries in the world and you can find the oldest proof of brewing in Germany. Bavarian sausage delicacies include the “Weißwurst” – veal sausage – and the Nuremberg “Rostbratwurst”. The former is eaten with sweet mustard, pretzels and Bavarian beer. The latter is offered in a bread roll at fast-food stalls

German wine Germany’s wine country has a long-standing and successful tradition, with over 2,000 years of history and 13 cultivation regions. Despite only cultivating ca. 100,000 hectares, or 1.3% of the worldwide wine producing area, and only producing about 10 million hectolitres, or 3.3% of worldwide wine production, Germany’s fame for wine is all the more remarkable. 60% of the world’s cultivated Riesling-vines are grown in Germany. Next to the Riesling, Silvaner and Rivaner, as well as Pinot Gris (Grauburgunder) and Pinot Blanc (Weißburgunder) are other important German white wine vines. The German Pinot Noir (Spätburgunder) occupies the top place in red wine vines, which make up about one third of German wine production. Measured by vineyard space, Germany is the third largest producer of Pinot Noir.

Why not stay longer?

3. Shopping „made in Germany“

Germany’s shopping landscape has many facets.You will find a large selection and colourful mixture of shops, boutiques, restaurants and cafes either in historical city centres or in Germany’s 400 downtown and suburban shopping centres.You will also find large department stores and shopping malls in most pedestrian zones. Visitors should take some time and experience a “made in Germany” shopping tour. Crockery, knives, clothes and soft toys are always a good choice of souvenir. n Below is a small selection of branded German products:

Adidas www.adidas.com ESCADA www.escada.com Hugo BOSS www.hugoboss.com Meissen Manufaktur www.meissen.de PUMA www.puma.com Rosenthal www.rosenthal.de

Steiff Teddys & Co. www.steiff.de Strenesse www.strenesse.com Villeroy & Boch www.villeroy-boch.com ZWILLING J. A. Henckels www.zwilling.com n Designer Outlets:

Ingolstadt Village, Ingolstadt (Bayern) www.ingolstadtvillage.com Wertheim Village, Wertheim (Baden-Württemberg) www.wertheimvillage.com Designer Outlets, Zweibrücken (Rheinland-Pfalz) www.doz.com Designer Outlet B5, Wustermark (Brandenburg) www.b5center.de Designer Outlets Wolfsburg, Wolfsburg (Niedersachsen) www.designeroutletswolfsburg.com Outletcity Metzingen (Baden-Württemberg) www.outletcity-metzingen.com