Royal Park by MediaplanetSE

ROYAL PARK STOCKHOLM

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Stay Royal Doug McNish

Serviced Office

Haga Health Club

“My goal is to make your brain go wow when you taste plant- based food. If I can get you to do that, then I feel I’ve been successful. This is the future of food.”

This is not a classic way of working, it is extraordinary flexible and allows you to grow evenly with your business.

”If you want a new outcome, you will have to break the habit of being yourself, and reinvent a new self.”

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Royal Park

- the luxury of the future INTERVIEW

Introducing a leading New Age plant-based destination - an interview with Ulrich John

ocated in beautiful Haga Park, Royal Park Stockholm has established itself as a world leader in plant-based hospitality. The heritage of Royal Park Stockholm uniquely merges a respect for the regal history of the location with a presentation of true, exquisite wealth as embodied on multiple dimensions of their services and hospitality. This is the New Age. With a paradigm shift fully in process, moving humanity into an age of heightened awareness and collectivity, Royal Park Stockholm’s choice to reclaim and reimagine the concept of ’new age’ in their destination marries a respect for ancient wisdom with sophistication, contemporary awareness and mindful action. Ulrich John, owner of Royal Park Stockholm, notes that the essence of the term ’royal’ conveys a sense of wealth and truth. The world is screa-

Written by Annika Lundkvist Photo: Tobias Ohls

ming for a sustainable shift, and John is undaunted in his efforts to initiate profound change in response. A sound businessman but also true visionary, John establishes a lead position in the Nordics with Royal Park as an exemplary new age plant-based destination, a living business model where the future of sustainability is manifest at all levels. Joel ’Jay Brave’ Bravette, is joining the Royal Park Stockholm team to work with communications, strategy and storytelling. “Since dedicating my career to sustainable and regenerative practices, I have found it increasingly difficult to find commercial leisure operations that have adopted a similar perspective. This can make traveling as an individual a chore and with a young family, a minefield.” He remarks that “RPS is like no other project that he has worked on. For sheer scale of operation, it is rare to see a player of this magnitude vertically integrate a whole new perspective at odds with traditional hospitality protocols. ”I am excited to be attached to such a game-chan-

ging initiative at this juncture which I am sure will become the industry standard in years to come.” Both John and Bravette point out that once you overcome the research and development costs of shifting an entire business to a plant based model, it is a true investment. Today’s existing hotel operation well exceeds 100 MSEK turnover. That’s an increase of more than 25 percent since 2017 under John’s owner- and leadership. John notes that “To keep up with being a leading green and plant based destination is crucial for our growth, profitability as well as for our beliefs. It’s our way of turning the old traditional grey elephant into pink and exciting. In this business every million of turnover increase in operation adds an additional value to your property’s assets times four, so there is no better economic alternative than staying on top of the green revolution.” Business veganism is driven by efficiency and the team at Royal Park Stockholm, with John

Ulrich John, owner of Royal Park Stockholm

at the helm, is laser focused on maintaining a high bar of excellence as an exemplary model of a plant-based destination with sustainability and hospitality in focus. The model is mindful of profit but also long term societal benefit. ”It’s not just a business opportunity, it’s a human development opportunity.” Bravette notes. On the horizon are plans for room refurbishment, a vegan brasserie, a shop on the premises and more. The concept for a shop on the premises is in development with a mission to, John explains “connect to local people in many fields- artisans, thinkers, artists and more.” Gaëlle Thieullen joins the team at Royal Park Stockholm to develop the shop. She notes that she looks “for brands that walk the talk and are really in the business because they believe that going vegan is the only way forward.” Her

plan is to bring in products from small businesses all over the world and “to create a platform for many products (clothes, bed sheets, supplements, cosmetics, food and more) where everything is vegan.” Beginning with their February 2018 launch of a Plant-Powered brunch and culminating in August 2019 with a hotel wide menu concentrated on quality plant-based dining options, Royal Park Stockholm has also established a global standard where excellent vegan options are the norm, not the exception. The transformation of the Royal Park Stockholm’s culinary philosophy is the result of a close collaborative effort with the Radisson Blu Royal Park Hotel and John & Co’s Plant Lab, a food laboratory at the resort that produces various artisan products including plant-based

cheeses, ice cream and tempeh. These creations have been incorporated at every level, resulting in a casual yet sophisticated and unique menu with broad appeal. Royal Park Stockholm has also enlisted the expertise of leaders in the plant-based culinary movement to ensure quality and excellence at all levels. Acclaimed Canadian chef, cookbook author and consultant Douglas McNish has been instrumental in working with Royal Park Stockholm to transform and veganize the brunch, à la carte and conference menus. ”This is the luxury of the future.” John notes. Indeed, Royal Park Stockholm has truly positioned itself as the leading plant-baseddestination not only locally in Sweden but worldwide.

The hotel really is an oasis located in Stockholm. People don’t expect this, regardless of the purpose of their visit. Most people get a wow factor when they see what we have to offer; the view, the calm, the delicious plant-based food and traditional meals on our menu, exceptional beverages, our spa, and the Haga Health Club which has a pool, gym and even a boxing ring – Lars Ålund

Lars Ålund General manager, Radisson Blu Royal Park Hotel

Green getaway INSIGHT Hotel guests today are looking for more than high thread count sheets, fluffy pillows, and a place to lay their head for the night. They are raising the bar on their expectations for a hotel experience. Written by Tsemaye Opubor Photo: Tobias Ohls

ccording to travel trend predictions for 2019 from the Travel and Tourism Research Association (TTRA), an organization that unites the travel and tourism research community, there are three key travel trends that will increase in 2019: weekend trips and short getaways, food tourism for culinary experiences, as well as a continued interest in bleisure- the new buzzword that describes the combination of business and leisure travel. Travelers interested in a holistic health-enhancing, plant-based culinary destination that caters to international foodies, business travelers and locals alike, perched just steps above a 17th century park with a stunning front row view of the water, will be able to tick all the boxes at Radisson Blu Royal Park Hotel, a green getaway located in Stockholm, Sweden. Lars Ålund, general manager, Radisson Blu Royal Park Hotel says: “The concept of the Radisson Blu Royal Park Hotel is to bring everything together to get an “out of the ordinary experience”. The hotel is a destination that we feel caters to everybody. The ambience

and surroundings are fantastic, and we want to make sure that rather than being a place to sleep for a few hours, people will want to come here to experience everything that is on offer”. Just minutes away from the bustle of the city, the Radisson Blu Royal Park Hotel is housed in a former Swedish regimental building, surrounded by lush greenery. This might seem like an unusual observation in a city that is known for its greenery, but the hotel is located a hop, skip, and a jump away from the neighboring Haga Park. The park is the green lung of Stockholm and part of the city’s Royal National City Park, a green corridor which forms an arc more than six miles long, stretching around and through the city. Radisson Blu Royal Park Hotel also sits above the Brunnsviken Bay inlet, offering guests breathtaking views of the water. While in the context of Stockholm, affectionately referred to as ‘the Venice of the North’, waterfront views might seem run of the mill, the view at the Radisson Blu Royal Park Hotel is truly stunning, with the majestic Swedish Museum of Natural History providing the backdrop on the other side of the Brunnsviken Lake. Ålund has noted that many individual leisure guests are coming to the hotel for a tranquil ex-

perience, and for the chance to soak in the atmosphere. They’re also staying in order to enjoy what makes the Swedish capital so unique- the Swedish nature: green grass, majestic trees, fresh air and clean water a few steps from their hotel room, with buzzing Stockholm and all that a capital city has to offer, right around the corner. Plant-based foodie guests and culinary travelers can also expect a truly unique visit. “Our ambition is to be one of the leading plant-based travel destinations in the world, offering guests extraordinary culinary experiences” says Lars Ålund. Radisson Blu Royal Park Hotel already features Sweden’s first 100 percent vegan hotel brunch, and the team running the hotel has set the bar high with the current restaurant collaboration with Canada’s award-winning executive vegan chef Doug McNish, who is composing special menus for the hotel. “What we are aiming to do here at Radisson Blu Royal Park Hotel is to create the purpose of a visit to Stockholm. To have the hotel as your base, with the tranquil park next door where you can take your morning walk, or a morning swim in the summer months, and offer extraordinary culinary experiences, and health and wellness with the gym and spa,” Ålund says.

McNish

- the plant beast INTERVIEW If you take one part missionary, one part ambassador, a dash of rabble rousing activist and mix with a massive heaping of culinary experience, then stir up more passion than you think is possible… voilà, you’ll have a pretty fair idea of what makes chef Doug McNish an icon and a leader in plant-based cuisine. Written by Tsemaye Opubor Photo: Tobias Ohls

he award-winning Canadian executive vegan chef, author, consultant, and brand spokesperson has been at the forefront of the plant-based culinary movement for well over a decade now. With his restaurant Mythology, three best-selling cookbooks (and a fourth on the way), recipes featured in magazines, appearances on national television shows in Canada, as well as a faithful YouTube and social media following, Chef McNish is challenging people’s attitudes to what vegan food is, and to what a vegan fine dining experience can be. His latest undertaking? Leading the culinary experience at the Radisson Blu Royal Park Hotel in Stockholm, Sweden. Ulrich John, a passionate humanitarian and entrepreneur, saw an opportunity to create the hospitality of the future, and offer hotel guests more than just a place to sleep for the night. His idea was for people to experience a holistic hotel experience. He wanted to develop Royal Park Stockholm into one of the world’s top destinations for high end hospitality and plant-based food. So he jumped on a plane; destination Toronto, to meet with Doug McNish and explain his vision to the chef. The chef liked what he heard and agreed to collaborate. The result is the development of Royal Park Stockholm: a joint collaboration by Ulrich John and Doug McNish. With Ulrich John and his team ensuring that the Royal Park Stockholm is both the destination and the experience for

guests. A special hotel “vibe” that offers a holistic experience and something unique, intangible and feel-good for all categories of guests; thanks to the tranquil surroundings, health club, plantbased dining experiences, spa, pool and themed events. Along with Chef McNish in the kitchen, developing tasting menus continuously, in addition to delicious, culinary plant-based dishes and adding his touch to the concept through his leadership, expertise and cooperation. Fast forward to Stockholm, August 2019, and a newly arrived Chef McNish and the team have started the work to make their vision of turning Royal Park Stockholm into mecca of plant-based dining, a reality. McNish sees a large part of his role in the collaboration with Ulrich John and team, “to excite people and inspire them, as well as to get them to understand that vegan food is better than traditional food. I’m a chef and I’ve spent the past 21 years in the kitchen. I know that with the right mix of acids, spices, textures, and flavors and exceptional visual presentation, you can create food that is far more delicious than traditional food”. From standing on the front lines of animal rights protests, to selling food at farmer’s markets and working his way up the ladder in kitchens in his home town of Toronto, McNish has developed his knowledge of the benefits of a plant-based lifestyle, along with his repertoire of raw and vegan recipes, step by step. “When I went vegan 15 years ago, I quit my meat cooking job because I knew that I had to follow my heart,” he says. “I had no idea that the vegan movement would become what it is today, or that it would generate the big industry that it has now. I had to take a leap of faith

because I could not in good conscience be involved with such an inhumane career path any longer,” McNish continues. Many of the dishes that he is creating for Royal Park Stockholm are adapted from longtime favorite recipes created at Public Kitchen; McNish’s legendary first vegan restaurant in Toronto that was also a carryout store and teaching kitchen. Much of the chef’s early success at Public Kitchen was down to his ability to offer ‘veganized’ classic dishes for his guests. Imagine traditional Eggs Benedict, with a runny poached egg yolk. Now imagine that same dish, but with McNish in the kitchen bringing his conviction and years of experience to the table, literally and figuratively: the “egg” is made with protein and plant- based ingredients. Yet, it’s as runny as the real thing, and the dish still has all its savory, smoky flavor. This should give you an idea of the culinary chemistry and food wizardry that McNish is capable of. “My goal is to make your brain go wow when you taste plant-based food. If I can get you to do that, then I feel I’ve been successful. This is the future of food,” McNish says.

Follow Doug McNish! www.dougmcnish.com @dougmcnish @dougmcnish ChefDougMcNish

Radisson Blu Royal Park Hotel offers Sweden’s first 100 percent plant-powered hotel brunch, and Chef McNish plans to create menus that introduce even more plant-based possibilities to the hotel restaurant’s guests. “Imagine a brunch that serves eggs that aren’t a chicken? I’m not going to lie, that’s pretty cool,” he says.

Octoberfest:

Festive Heart of Autumn at Royal Park Stockholm “Everything we organize at Royal Park is unique and this is just the beginning. When you work with an entrepreneur like Ulrich, the world is your oyster. This is the only 100 percent plantbased Octoberfest in Scandinavia and we will show that meat will not be missed. There certainly won’t be anywhere else in this part of the world that will be rockin’ it out like we will.” -Tim Barbour, Food and Beverage Manager Written by Annika Lundkvist Photo: Tobias Ohls

ctoberfest has its roots in Bavaria as the world’s largest ‘volksfest’ (People’s festival). It is a feast for the senses and a true ode to a season of harvest and the energy of kinship. The spirit of Octoberfest will come alive this Autumn at Royal Park Stockholm in keeping with the traditional and historic Octoberfest in Munich. On becoming part of the team at Royal Park Stockholm and being involved in the

dynamic developments, Food and Beverage Manager Tim Barbour remarks that “my career has seen me work in London and Paris in completely different environments and always with high expectation clientele. So when I met Ulrich and heard about the project at Royal Park Hotel and learned that not only did they want to establish themselves as plant based market leaders in Scandinavia, but wanted to be known all over the world, I did whatever I could to get the job. Good food brings people together and the world is a changing place so this is a massive learning experience, not just

for me but for everyone who walks through our doors.” Following on from the huge success of Oktoberfest 2019 we will start the planning phase of Oktoberfest at Royal Park 2020. We can expect weekends packed full of Live Music and DJs, Traditional Bavarian Food and of course even more Beer! There will again be a huge focus on the music this year which will give people no other choice but to come and visit us to hear the very best live entertainment Stockholm has to offer and soak up a real Bavarian Oktoberfest atmosphere. Stay tuned for more info…

Royal Park Serviced Office: Work with An oasis of amenities INTERVIEW

ver the past several decades, the concept of serviced offices has become more mainstream, an increasingly familiar option in a culture of work that values new dimensions of mobility and flexibility. At Royal Park Stockholm, the introduction of a serviced office presents an opportunity that is unique. Integrating a serviced office to the entire destination enhances the concept of Royal Park as an oasis nestled into gorgeous Haga Park and overlooking the waters of Brunnsviken where you can eat well, rest, exercise, socialize and host your professional meetings. On the new development of a serviced office on the premises, Lars Ålund, CEO of Radisson

Written by Annika Lundkvist Photo: Tobias Ohls

Blu Royal Park notes that: “We are going beyond the trend. We are enhancing the choices of this unique destination; the chosen place to stay, a chosen place to work, the chosen place to eat, drink, relax and stay healthy.” Ålund, who has been working in the hospitality industry around 30 years, explain that the serviced office offers much more than other options in the region. “You are just in the middle of everything, yet still in a picturesque, elegant, calm and relaxing environment.” Peder Swartling, CEO for Castle Park Sales, a newly launched sales organization at Royal Park Stockholm, notes the benefit of the hotel being located 20 minutes from Arlanda and Bromma. “Our clients find the commute, especially from the northern area of Stockholm, to be a benefit as they don’t need to waste valuable time commuting to work. Instead, they can focus on things like working out, relaxing and then getting home to spend time with their

families and friends.” “Regardless of whether you are in the retail business looking for a smart scale-up solution, if you are in need of a location for your tech team, or if you have a need for a management meeting we offer a high-end environment. We are flexible and mobile and have spaces for a variety of business areas.” says Peder Swartling. This enables a set up where our clients can focus 100 percent on their businesses while the location handles all the administrative services needed. Clients can book event tickets, benefit from room service, health club, spa and access a 24-hour concierge. Specific training sessions and gym classes for office clients will be available during lunchtime, before the start of the work day and also post-work. “Welcome to our serviced office where we create global and sustainable values through accessing a meeting point for international businesses, associations, and people.”

The Royal Park team Photo: Tobias Ohls

Happy, healthy and wealthy INTERVIEW Written by Sandra Widh Photo: Tobias Ohls

With a broad palette of inspiring activities, Haga Health Club offers a variety of services for members sharing the same approach to life. They seek to redefine the meaning of health and to inspire people through an unconventional cross-border collaboration at the club. The test and coaching clinic Aktivitus collaboration with Haga Health Club started in 2016 when they moved into the outstanding facilities in Royal Park Stockholm. Since then, the collaboration has strengthened, and Aktivitus is now an appreciated and integral part of the club.

Members can easily access our tests, training programs and services, or go to our popular group fitness classes”, says Johan Hasselmark, managing partner at Aktivitus in Stockholm. The company is a leader in the coaching and testing of endurance sports athletes in Sweden with expertise in cardio training, progressive and preventive health. “In all our work, we use scientific and evidence-based methods combined with solid practical experience”, says Hasselmark. “The first step is always to understand and learn about the individual’s specific needs. Then, we tailor-make a program just for you”, he explains. Bikers, runners, triathletes, cross-country skiers and other endurance athletes have used

Aktivitus’ services for over 16 years. They provide soccer and hockey teams as well as combat sports athletes with unique coaching and indepth knowledge. “You do not have to be at elite level”, says Hasselmark. “We help everyone, from beginners to international professional athletes of all ages”. Aktivitus is also committed to setting up corporate health and wellness programs. “Our customers put great effort into their employee’s well-being, adds Hasselmark. “Each employee’s health and training progress are measured thoroughly as well as the company’s economic gains. Together, we create results that instantly reflect on the culture, co-worker’s positive energy levels and business results.” “People are generally happier and more focused. The effect is almost instant. It is amazing to see every time.”

To drastically decrease risks for cardiovascular deceases, some types of cancer and type II diabetes, and lower your blood pressure, you ‘only’ need to:

Be active for at least 30 minutes a day, for example walking, gardening or swimming. Get sweaty and get your heart rate up 2-3 times a week. Do what is easiest and most fun for you. Remember, the body is made for physical activity. One minute of training statistically gives you a five hour longer life!

Three tips: How to get the best results of your training

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Be honest with yourself. Do you want to become a better athlete? Do the proper training and take advice. If you train for your well-being, just excercise with what you like! If you want to excel in sports, get the right equipment. But if you exercise to be healthy, what you have, just as long as you work out! Push your boundaries and move out of your comfort zone, especially if you have a certain goal like a tough run or tournament. If your goal is to have a healthier lifestyle, you do not always have to work harder, longer or more.

The SPA INTERVIEW Written by Annika Lundkvist Established in October 2016 at Royal Park Stockholm, Haga Health Club SPA is a uniquely rejuvenating oasis devoted to health and wellness at every level.

Personal training is of course always available under the supervision of Stellan Back and his team at Helt Personligt. They’re operating in the club and are sharing knowledge and inspiration on a daily basis. With a background in professional athletics and with over 20 years of experience within coaching and personal training Stellan has created a solid foundation at Haga Health Club and at any time.

Helena Rölander, business manager of the spa, notes that the exceptional, welcoming atmosphere of the club is in part due to the fact that the lines between staff, members and guests are blurred. “We’re all just friends with a common goal,” she notes, “to enjoy life and stay healthy through training, relaxation and good food. We have a holistic perspective in everything we do.” “The word holistic basically means to treat and consider the whole of something or someone and not just one part.” According to Rölander, the club’s foremost concern is for the inner health of members and guests, not just their outer beauty. The SPA features top of the line treatments and cosmetics, in alignment with the organic and plant-based ethos at the heart of Royal Park Stockholm. The Wild and Royal Cafe is also distinctive as everything is ‘plant powered’ with many products made in-house from scratch. As a member of the club or as a guest at Royal Park Stockholm, you have access to this truly extraordinarily skilled team of people and their unique networks as well as amenities including 600 square meters power box, gym with state-of-the-art equipment, pool and spa.

A holistic view starts with Alpha and Omega INTERVIEW In the fall of 2019, the wellness company Alpha Omega Performance will move into the facilities. With AO’s proven track record, the goal is to be a leading rehabilitation and fitness center for sports professionals and athletes from around the world. “The secret to our success is our holistic view of the individual”, says Andreas Öhgren, founder of AO Performance and long-time fitness coach. “We focus on the whole person where customized exercise and adequate recovery - especially through quality sleep and the right nutrition - gives us outstanding results whether it is on a rink or in a board room. They are also two key factors to longevity and maximum performance.” “Even though my passions are hockey and alpine skiing, our concept fits everyone”, adds

Written by Sandra Widh

Öhgren and continues: “say you have a busy schedule with minimal time to work out. Maybe you are close to burning out. Our fully personalized programs will give you a more healthy, nutritious and successful lifestyle.” High quality permeates everything AO does. Together with their know-how and key competencies, they complement Haga Health Club in an invaluable way. “The facilities are just incredible,” says Öhgren. Everything from the surroundings, to the services and location gives the customer excellent chances to work out, recuperate and fuel energy. The restaurant offers clean, organic vegan food to further boost your immune system. Logic training is another of AO’s cornerstones. By focusing on individual adaptation and not follow a generalized protocol, they reduce rehab times signifi-

cantly. “The body should use movement patterns that reflect those we have in real life and in sports”, continues Öhgren. “If you only use monotone exercises like lifting weights up and down, there is a greater risk of getting injured. With our philosophy, we make sure that all muscular systems in the body are balanced.” Impressive track record Andreas has coached nearly 60 NHL players over the years, including Nicklas Bäckström, Gabriel Landeskog, Jesper Bratt and Patric Hörnqvist. He helped the Swedish alpine professional Mattias Hargin during his most successful years. Andreas coached Team Sweden in the Alpine World Championships 2015 held in Vail, Colorado.. In the spring of 2019, Andreas also worked with the US Wom-

en’s national alpine team during their Squaw Valley camp. “I thrive to help others succeed and genuinely look forward to these exciting times ahead,” he smiles. Let´s do this”.

Three tips for better sleep Remove all screens at least half an hour before going to bed Make sure the room is dark Keep a cool temperature

A 21 century model of Waldorf education st

TIPS Veronica Blix Myrsell, principal at Hagaskolan and Andrew Sebzda, Waldorf educator, teacher and leading educator at Hagaskolan. Written by Annika Lundkvist Photo: Tobias Ohls

estled in natural elements, surrounded by the woods and close to the water, the geography of Hagaskolan nourishes the environmental interests at the heart of Waldorf principles. Waldorf is founded in a holistic model centered on humanities, natural sciences, artistic subjects and crafts. The current school theme is Sustainability, Health and Ethics. Veronica Blix Myrsell, principal of Hagaskola since October 2016, originally began working at the school as a teacher in 2011. “Last year, we worked with sustainability and health, among other things, by having discussions in the classes based on the new guidelines from the National Food Agency where sustainability and awareness of food and diet is to be addressed in school in connection with meals; from the earth to the table,” Myrsell explains. When I visited the school, I observed that the environment felt very free. Myrsell pointed out that this “freedom” was actually a result of a well developed structure within the Waldorf approach. “People who visit our school describe how they are captured by a kind of

family atmosphere and the students’ openness and self-awareness,” she says. “I think that everyone who works with us helps to build confidence and the feeling is that our school is a place where everyone can and will learn for life. It’s not just about achieving goals or meeting expectations. It’s about being able to prepare for life and daring to make a difference. It is our biggest wish to make them feel hopeful and ready to engage in adulthood, especially important today given the challenges ahead of us globally.” Andrew Sebzda has been teaching in Waldorf schools for 23 years. During our discussion, he reflected on anthroposophy and the development of the Waldorf philosophy over the last century since the first Steiner school was founded in 1919 in Stuttgart, Germany. “Steiner came up with an idea of a different way to educate children,” he notes. “The Waldorf curriculum, with all its vast and amazing themes, is supposed to help children in their physical and mental development. Waldorf education keeps a child healthy. Ethics are practiced from the first grade with different games and storytelling where social development is in focus.” Sebzda’s passion as a Waldorf educator is clear as he explains the pedagogy.”The Waldorf educational philosophy is learning by doing,” he shares. “When you do something with your

body, when you engage fully, you really learn. We want to teach children to understand the world. The question is how we do that? The first is play. Playtime is very important. We let children play for as long as possible. Physical movement is very important. Then, sensory skills as well as skills for language, imagination, creativity, motivation, concentration, ethics and morals,” Sebzda explains. Waldorf is an educational philosophy as well as a global community. There is a philosophy that unites the schools across the world, but also characteristics that set them apart. One of the truly unique aspects of Hagaskolan is that they have taken an exemplary move to incorporate an entirely plant-based menu. “They decided that this is the future for a change. If we are to survive in this beautiful world of ours we need to make changes and those changes need to be radical,” says Sebzda. Myrsell shared that what continues to fuel her is always questioning how “to inspire and motivate the children of tomorrow.” Inspiration and motivation truly are cornerstones at Hagaskolan, a place where the Waldorf spirit and philosophy is not only preserved, but also beautifully advanced for our relationship with the world today. “We believe that we need to be a step ahead, rather than following the mainstream, with a holistic and sustainable idea in regards to the situation today,” Myrsell notes.

Tillitsverket: Incorporating Play with Human Sustainability INTERVIEW “Our idea is that through play you gain so much and that by inviting kids and grown-ups together, magic can happen.” -Stina Balkfors, Co-Founder of Tillitsverket

hen I met Stina Balkfors of Tillitsverket one beautiful, sunny late summer afternoon at Royal Park Stockholm, I truly had idea of what was in store. As she led me into Tillitsverket’s permanent exhibtion, my mind lit up as we passed by various beautifully designed play spaces, richly colored paintings from a recent workshop and regal yet playful elements throughout the entire space. The various tents and delightful nooks tucked throughout the exhibition are all a testament to the progressive mission of this down-to-earth yet extraordinary NGO. The importance of play for all ages is in central focus at Tillitsverket which was founded in 2009 by seventeen people of wide ranging backgrounds- educators, doctors, therapists, artists, community entrepreneurs, gardeners, architects and more. “We came together with a common urge to do something, to make the world a better place with a common conviction that human abilities have a key role in creating a better world. We started off ten years ago by inviting people to play. We had big play days outdoors and from there it has been growing both in what we do, in knowledge and collaborations as well as the awareness of the role of play for humans, “ explains co-founder Stina Balkfors. It might appear that the organization’s activities are simply about enjoying the freedom and joy of play, but there is a deeper understanding in motion with their mission. “Our idea is to work with human sustainability,” she says. “ When we talk about sustainability and what we really need to do to be able to meet all these changes that we are facing, we tend to often turn to physical solutions or methods. Our idea, what we have been doing a lot of experimenta-

tion with is how can we create positive change by focusing on the human aspect such as trust, collaboration and human abilities.” Their primary exhibition, Skapa, Leka, Lyssna, has been a mobile concept until January 2019 when they moved to Royal Park. “We have been touring around with our exhibition Skapa, Leka, Lyssna all over Sweden and now finally we have found a home where we have actually built the location to fit the experience.” Tillitsverket’s provides a range of experiences introducing the importance of play for human trust, collaboration, consciousness, creativity, playfulness and ability. All of these aspects of connection, communication and relating are the keys in Tillitsverkets methods which are extraordinary in how basic yet essential they are to human experience. Play at Tillitsverket takes a myriad of forms: theater play, construction play, free play in the forest with fairies, trolls and big adventures, storytelling, painting and more. “The central idea at Tillitsverket is that through play one gains so much and that by inviting children and grown-ups together, magic can happen, both within the relationships as well as with the ability to see different sides of each other. These meetings create an energy and awareness that people actually long for but often find difficult to create in life.” What Tillitsverket offers is a truly unique but central and basic way of looking at and reconnecting with a sense of sustainability. The world is craving new perspectives, new ideas, new ways to look at the system. An opportunity to spend a day with your colleagues to look at problems from another perspective presents immeasurable value. Likewise, the opportunity for children and grown-ups to engage in play together offers an engagement potential beneficial to all ages. Balkfors notes that: “people later comment on how basic it is. Not shallow but very basic and almost forgotten. It’s about getting reconnected to your human capacity. “

Written by Annika Lundkvist Photo: Tobias Ohls

COMPANIES Tillitsverket invites companies, groups and organizations to visit and can custom tailor an experience for any need. A company can, for example, come in for an hour as inspiration in conference or longer for a more in-depth experience on topics such as trust in leadership and creative collaborations. Tillitsverket specializes in a lot of experience mixed with dialogue, all intended to first and foremost be fun and facilitate a company wherever they are at in their organizational process.

SCHOOLS Tillitsverket invite schools, groups of students, teachers and educators to participate in their play events and organize visits to the exhibitions. What is important is that there is no emphasis on the result, all focus is on experience.

A royal oasis in Stockholm INSIGHT A new era is awaiting hotel Radisson Blu Royal Park: A super crew of innovative entrepreneurs and musicians are joining forces. Written by Ofelia Graah-Hagelbäck Photo: Mårten Levin and Erik Josjö

o meet up with a bunch of professional and inspiring entertainers on a sunny Sunday for breakfast would give anybody a real boost. The setting outside on the terrace, surrounded by the outdoor green environment overviewing the water is just perfect. The mood is high as the hotel owner Ulrich John and the two musicians Papa Dee and Paulo Mendonca sit down. They are joking and sharing old memories and it is clear that they know each other from early years. Their friendship evokes a familiar feeling, something that frames our entire meeting. We are gathered to talk about hotel Radisson Blu Royal Park´s new concept. It´s around ten in the morning and many guests are having breakfast out in the sun. A New Age destination The building has been serving as a hotel since 1994 and Ulrich John has been the owner for the past three years. He has extensive experience within real estate, managing the hotel was a natural step to take in his career. “The building itself is impressive and the location with its spectacular views is obviously something extra. This hotel is one in a million and my vision is to turn it into a New Age hospitality destination,” explains Ulrich John. The food is of significant importance and the entire kitchen has been newly renovated. “We are into wellness in general, by mood and sports and particularly into plant based and organic food. We are proud of working with prominent international chefs with great ideas and ambitions serving vegan luxury food, John explains. Get into the mood with food and music The well equipped kitchen and food lab also

produces vegan food. How about vegan mozzarella cheeses, vegan soft creamy Camembert cheese or homemade vegan ice cream? These are only three examples of what is already made at the hotel. And what better combination is there than great food, nice surroundings and uplifting music that puts you in a good mood? This is where the group “The Royal Parkers” with the musicians Papa Dee, Paulo Mendonca and songwriter/producer Mattias Wollo, come into the picture. They have all been into music as long as they can remember and have ongoing successful careers. Papa Dee is a well known singer, songwriter, reggae, MC and DJ “a manic record collector” born in Sweden. He did his first live gigs in the 1980s and besides the singing has been hosting tv shows and radio programs. He plays in different bands, including the rock band Ringo Franco. In addition, he will also release two new albums in a couple of months. Now, of course, he is also one of the “The Royal Parkers”. “Paulo Mendonca and I did our first gig together last year. We got on well and felt that it would be fun to do something more together. We did 12 more gigs and liked playing together even more. It was a clear “yes” when we were asked to play here at the hotel,” says Papa Dee. Paulo Mendonca is a Swedish funk guitarist of Portuguese origin who released his first album in the 1990s. He has been playing with various stars. Tina Turner is one of them. His new, soon to be released album, is heavier, flirting more with rock. “I have always liked rock a lot and now I am digging a little more into the rock music,” explains Paulo Mendonca. The release party for the new single will be held at the hotel in September, the album will be released later on this autumn. Cool vibes The “Royal Parkers” will play a variety of music such as rock, reggae and funk on a regular ba-

sis from September on at the hotel. Exclusively invited guests as Jennifer Brown, Jessica Folcker and Emma Essinger amongst others will be joining in. “We hope to add some spice and cool vibes,” says Papa Dee. “Music is what we do. I only had one plan in life really, and that was to play music. I´ve been on a music mission since the age of 12,” says Paulo Mendonca laughing. Time to make a change The time is right to do something different; something new and outstanding. The setting couldn´t be better for the new concept which is next door to Hagaparken and Brunnsviken. The hotel already is something to count on for both regulars and new guests that find their way to this New Age hospitality destination. “We aim to offer the very best in every aspect,” says Ulrich John. “Yeah, and this is the perfect destination for creativity, innovation and new thinking. This is already big in England and the time has come here too to make a change. We need to open our minds and let good thoughts in, and this is one way of doing it. Come and join us and be the change,” says Jay Brave, vegan rapper from England who is joining the new project. Just make it happen “This is what we want to do: come up with new ideas and make them happen. This is the place to start a change, get inspired and just go with it. I wish to try out new things and create that fantastic love, peace and understanding feeling together with others who are like-minded,” continues Ulrich John. That’s what this fantastic gang of four, like the musketeers around the table, are striving for and they are clearly eager to get started. “This feels so right and so cool. We are on to it and we believe in what we are doing. Wehope that others will enjoy it and join us,” concludes Ulrich John.

Paulo Mendonca

Papa Dee

This is the perfect destination for creativity, innovation and new thinking â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Ulrich John

Butterflies and Sharks in Haga Park INTERVIEW Founded as a winter garden in 1786, the Butterfly House Haga Ocean is now mainly an indoor rainforest exhibit with South American fish and butterflies, with approximately 350,000 visitors per year. One late summer morning, I set off from the lobby of Radisson Blu Royal Park on a brief trek through the woods to visit the exhibits, imagining how beautiful the walk must be during the other seasons.

Text: Annika Lundkvist Photo: Unsplash

ikael Odell, owner and manager of The Butterfly House Haga Ocean since 2006, has been working in public aquariums and exhibitions around the world for over thirty years. On experiencing the exhibits, he notes that “The basic idea is for visitors to follow the water. The rain falls in the rainforest and find its way back to the oceans where once again turns in to rain, in the eternal cycle of life.” We moved through the environments, intrigued by various marine species, butterflies zipping around us and the impressive depth of the shark aquarium, one of Scandinavia’s largest. The varying temperatures of the rooms also convey the tropical environment, lending to a sensory experience as well. The aquarium at The Butterfly House Haga

Ocean was built in 2013 and is home to sharks, reef fish and coral reefs. Several exhibits exist in connection to the main one, such as The Great White Shark for which Odell and his team went on an expedition to South Africa. Odell and his team are involved in a number of species protection projects around the world, doing work that is vital in conservation of marine biodiversity. “The Oceans are our biggest living world on the planet. Since sharks have been around for 400 million years they have a story to tell us. Remember that the dinosaurs disappeared approximately 65 million years ago. There is a message in that. The water the dinosaurs once drank is the water we still drink today.” He notes that a visit here “might even encourage some children to acquire a science education and continue to work on issues related to marine life environments.” A path between The Butterfly House Haga Ocean and Royal Park Stockholm is being planned which will further enable join events and projects.

Calendar 2020 Plant Based Sunday Brunch Every Sunday January to May and September to November 12 noon to 4pm

Plant Based Tasting menu Wine Tasting Plant Based Academy events Focus on the Family weekends Royal Park in cooperation with Tillitsverket

Royal Park Talks Forum for contemporary topics

Themed Weekends Inspirational and Educational

Yoga weekends Sverige Springer Cross country races in Hagaparken

Training weekends Live music events Throughout the year

Swimrun events UEFA Euro 2020 Kayaking and SUP rental Food Markets Farmers Markets Octoberfest Halloween Christmas at Royal Park