Discover Germany, Issue 120, August 2024

WINERY RESTAURANT GUEST HOUSE

Fine wine and cuisine, hiking and cycling, wellness and golf

Treat yourself to a welldeserved short getaway or extended holiday! DISCOVER OUR OVERNIGHT SPECIALS

COME VISIT US AND BOOK A LITTLE BREAK FROM EVERYDAY LIFE AT WWW.GUT-HERMANNSBERG.DE

Gut Hermannsberg Ehemalige Weinbaudomäne 55585 Niederhausen-Nahe Germany

Dear Reader,

It’s August, so chances are high that you’re currently on the way to or are coming back from your annual summer holiday destination. If that’s not the case and you still need some travel inspiration for 2024, we’ve got you covered!

For wine lovers who would like to visit a country that also has a rich vinification history, we’re travelling to Austria to take a closer look at the country’s various wines that have proven to be an exceptional hit on the export market. At the beginning of 2024, Austria’s wine exports climbed to a new record level of around 248,2 million euros, which translates to around 65,3 million litres of exported wine. We wanted to find out what the hype is all about and have tried the top five summer wines from Austria for you.

Situated on the Neisse River, our writer Wibke Carter further discovers the enchanting Old Town of Görlitz in Saxony, and we take a special look at the beautiful city of Zurich. Or, if you want to visit an exceptional exhibition this summer, be sure to visit DARK MATTER in Berlin. Here, visitors can experience a parallel cosmos of expansive light installations in which the boundaries between the real and the digital worlds become blurred.

If you still need inspiration, our Travel section features things to do with kids, exceptional hotels, as well as top-notch destinations this month, including a special treat in Tenerife.

This month, our cover is further adorned by the talented actress and choreographer Nikeata Thompson, best known for her appearances in  Germany’s Next Topmodel, Got To Dance and Masters of Dance. We sat down with her to talk about her acting career, her latest project Pauline, and the significance of founding her own dance agency.

Other topics covered in our latest issue are a special theme on the solar economy, a closer look at meetings, conferences and event locations, innovative interior designers, creative businesses, and much, much more.

Sit back, relax and thanks for reading!

Nane Steinhoff Editor

Contents

AUGUST 2024

COVER FEATURE

24 NIKEATA THOMPSON: “DREAMS ARE CREATED IN STILLNESS”

Actress and choreographer Nikeata Thompson is best known for her appearances in  Germany’s Next Topmodel, Got To Dance and Masters of Dance. We met up with her to talk about her acting career, her latest project Pauline, and the significance of founding her own dance agency.

SPECIAL THEMES

43 MEETINGS, EVENTS & INCENTIVE TRIPS

Find out more about the top meetings, events and incentive trips in the DACH region in this special theme.

48 CITY GUIDE - FOCUS ON ZURICH 2024

A medieval old town with plenty of sights, charming streets and shops, an unprecedented art and culture offering, and plenty of nature around the city –Zurich has got it all. We showcase some of the best places to visit in the city.

69 FOCUS ON THE SOLAR ECONOMY

Did you know that solar power creates cheaper, cleaner electricity, ultimately leading to unlimited supply, more spending power and energy independence? We take a look at key players in the industry to find out more about this exciting field.

FEATURES

16 TOP 5 AUSTRIAN WINES TO TRY THIS SUMMER

Austrian wines are best known around the world for their quality and innovative features. Let’s find out what the hype is all about.

20 BLURRING BOUNDARIES BETWEEN THE REAL AND THE DIGITAL

In Berlin, visitors can experience a parallel cosmos of expansive light installations in which the boundaries between the real and the digital worlds become blurred. The DARK MATTER exhibition is a multi-dimensional parallel world of light, space and sound.

57

34 GERMANY’S HOME OF FOOTBALL

A Happy End wasn’t to be for the locals but regardless, Euro 2024 was a success story in Germany. Packed fan zones, great football, new friends, and a stadium that is one of a kind. Join us on a journey to the Round of 16 clash between Germany and Denmark in Dortmund. A city that loves football with probably the best atmosphere in Europe.

40 HOTEL OF THE MONTH

Are you looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life? The ideal retreat awaits you at the 5-star luxury Hotel Botánico & The Oriental Spa Garden in Puerto de la Cruz, Tenerife. This top-tier hideaway invites discerning guests to revel in the island's perfect climate, no matter the season.

58 PARIS ON THE NEISSE RIVER

The reputation of Görlitz's Old Town has long extended beyond the borders of Germany and Europe - even Hollywood has succumbed to its magic. Our writer Wibke Carter travelled to Saxony for a closer look.

62 TOP GERMAN CITIES

Many German destinations this year were gilded by hosting a football game during the European Championships – among which Berlin, Hamburg and Munich remain the ‘top three’ as both travelling and investment magnets.

REGULARS & COLUMNS

8 DEDICATED TO DESIGN

Whether you are searching for trendy interior items or unique fashion pieces, be sure to take a look at our Design section.

30 TRAVEL

Hotels, destinations and exciting things to do – our Travel section gives you some much-needed travel inspiration.

66 BUSINESS

Our business section takes a closer look at businesses from across the DACH region.

76 CULTURE CALENDAR

Discover Germany, Austria & Switzerland’s Culture Calendar is your perfect guide to what not to miss in August.

81 SECRET BERLIN COLUMN

This month, long-term Berlin resident Cornelia Brelowski writes about a very special castle gem that simply needs visiting.

Fashion Finds

Animal print is back! Experiencing a renaissance on social media platforms such as Instagram and TikTok, the trend can increasingly be found in fashion magazines and catwalks around the globe. This season, leopard, zebra and co. are versatile prints that are being used as statement pieces as well as in more subtle items. Here, we introduce our favourite pieces.

EDITOR’S PICKS I PRESS IMAGES BY MARC AUREL AND PRESS LOFT

This airy maxi dress is perfect for summer or colder temperatures when paired with a jacket and a pair of white cowboy boots. £152. www.marc-aurel.com

In need of a practical bum bag, but can’t find a stylish one? Look no further. This basket bum bag comes with a cute leopard print and will go with absolutely anything. £45. www.thebasketroom.com

This lightweight XL bag is made for shopping enthusiasts and is a real eye-catcher with plenty of space and a zip pocket on the inside. £93. www.marc-aurel.com

Marc Aurel, one of Germany’s leading fashion brands, combines Parisian chic with wild animal prints this season, as can be seen in this stylish trouser suit with animal print. Wear it for a bold office day or for an evening out with friends. Blazer £212. www.marc-aurel.com

Fashion with a clear conscience, that's what this chiffon blouse made of recycled polyester stands for. The trendy minimal ethnic print, the collar with ruffled edge and the dividing seams with ruffles create a trendy boho look. £136. www.marc-aurel.com

Tie this silk scarf with zebra print around your wrist, neck or handbag to brighten up your day. £69. www.hipunique.co.uk

Dedicated to Design

Yellow is arguably the most optimistic shade you’ll find in the colour spectrum, so it's no wonder that it has been so popular in fashion and interiors recently as we seek to find more joy in the everyday! These warming, radiant hues effortlessly inject a little bit of summer sun into your space throughout the year, so we've pulled together a variety of our favourite yellow products to help you tap into the trend.

EDITOR’S PICKS I PHOTO: PRESS LOFT

Characterised by organic, retro-inspired shapes, this distinct armchair is brimming with bold character. Wildflower chenille upholstery, a luxuriously soft chenille with a beautiful appearance characterised by fluffiness, provides the sofa with a soft, thick and irresistible finish. £1,099. www.bridgman.co.uk

Available in three sizes, the Woofins dog beds are designed to sit stylishly in the home. They are super practical with extra durable, yet super soft, fully removable 100% cotton covers, making washing them a doddle. £195. www.loaf.com

We’ve found the perfect yellow wood paint shade for you to do your interiors projects from furniture makeovers to painting doors, window frames and kitchen units. The ‘Golden Somer’ paint is a warm yellow with a touch of orange. 750ml pot £22. www.thorndown.co.uk

Perfect for placing in alcoves to use as TV or record cabinets or for storage in the bedroom, this locker comes with one adjustable shelf and two hooks, allowing you to personalise the inside of it. £289. www.roseandgrey.co.uk

Want to bring some yellow into your home without changing the interior to its full extent? Choose this floral print rug. Designed by the Finnish label Marimekko, it is the product’s aim to bring colour and happiness into your home. £1,099. www.traumteppich.com/de

The classic among hurricane lanterns: The Feuerhand is manufactured in Germany for more than 100 years and has therefore gained cult status. Its sophisticated construction ensures economic kerosene consumption, enabling the Feuerhand to burn for about 20 hours with one tankful. £32.99. www.feuerhand.com

Slip into Stream, with your latest read, a delicately scented candle, and let yourself drift away. Relax in spacious polished curves with minimalist design and effortless elegance, proof that simple things can be truly stunning. Crafted from 100% recyclable, high-quality Lucite acrylic. £1,795. www.watersbaths.co.uk

TEA HERITAGE: IT’S TEA TIME!

It was the famous author Jane Austen who said ‘But indeed I would rather have nothing but tea’. She must have known Tea Heritage’s delicious organic teas.

“Our teas,” says founder Elodie Fagot, “contain the most incredible ingredients and, packaged in our handmade, beautiful tea bags, provide an immersive experience that helps tea lovers relax and unwind.”

Elodie and her team offer a wide range of teas, including all-time favourites Earl Grey and English Breakfast, as well as organic loose tea with real pieces of fruit and spices such as Lemon Verbena, a tea as refreshing as a light breeze on a warm summer’s day.

Teas by Tea Heritage are beautifully packaged and the gift boxes make a perfect present for anyone.

What makes the teas even more iconic are the tea bags, which can be made to order. “Some of the most popular designs are hearts and clouds for special occasions such as weddings or birthdays. But we can also realise other unusual shapes.”

Tea Heritage’s customers include big names such as Chanel and La Mer, who have discovered the uniqueness of the teas from the boutique company in Lyon.

www.teaheritage.fr/en

TEA HERITAGE: IT’S TEA TIME!

Die berühmte Schriftstellerin Jane Austen schrieb in einem ihrer Briefe ‚Tee wäre mir eigentlich genug’. Sie muss die köstlichen Bio-Tees von Tea Heritage gekannt haben.

„Unsere Tees”, so Gründerin Elodie Fagot, „enthalten nur die besten Zutaten und bieten, verpackt in unseren handgefertigten, hübschen Teebeuteln, ein intensives Erlebnis, bei dem Teeliebhaber sich entspannen und erholen können.”

Elodie und ihr Team haben viele Teesorten im Angebot, darunter die beliebten Sorten Earl Grey und English Breakfast. Auch lose Bio-Tees mit echten Fruchtstücken und Gewürzen gehören dazu, zum Beispiel Lemon Verbena, ein Tee, so erfrischend wie eine kühle Brise an einem heißen Sommertag.

Die Tees von Tea Heritage sind liebevoll verpackt und die Geschenksets eignen sich hervorragend als kleines Mitbringsel.

Ein charmantes Alleinstellungsmerkmal sind die Teebeutel, die individuell gestaltet werden können. „Zu den beliebtesten Motiven gehören Herzen und Wolken für besondere Anlässe wie Hochzeiten oder Geburtstage. Wir produzieren aber auch andere ausgefallene Designs.”

Namhafte Unternehmen wie Chanel oder La Mer haben die Tees des kleinen Unternehmens aus Lyon bereits für sich entdeckt und freuen sich über die exklusiven Kreationen.

STUDIO KOMO INNENARCHITEKTEN: THE ENABLERS FOR INNOVATIVE WORKSPACES

Individual interior design serves as a figurehead, brand space and company hub that must achieve one thing at first glance: Convince! The workspace designers at Studio Komo Innenarchitekten excel in doing just that.

Founded in 2012 by Moritz Köhler, Studio Komo Innenarchitekten in Stuttgart has swiftly become a leading boutique agency. Known for their unmistakable design language, which has garnered international recognition, including the prestigious Frame Award 2020, Studio Komo stands for excellence in interior design.

"As holistic planners, we develop and realise concepts under the claim 'holistic interior affairs.' Our projects are colourful, sturdy and expressive. Working out what is special is in our DNA," Köhler says.

Studio Komo understands that dynamic workspaces must facilitate dialogue and personal encounters. Their individually designed environments promote communication and creativity, streamline work processes and boost employee productivity. Thoughtful design not only convinces existing employees of their value but also attracts new talent.

With over ten years of experience, Rene Rauls, who joined Studio Komo in 2017, brings his expertise from the fashion industry to the table: "Our projects in the hospitality, retail and private sectors speak for themselves and our passion for interior design.”

www.studiokomo.de

STUDIO KOMO INNENARCHITEKTEN: DIE MÖGLICHMACHER FÜR INNOVATIVE ARBEITSWELTEN

Die individuelle Innenarchitektur ist Aushängeschild, Markenraum und Unternehmenszentrum, das auf den ersten Blick eines sollte: Überzeugen! Die Arbeitsweltgestalter von Studio Komo Innenarchitekten wissen, wie man genau das erreicht.

Seit der Gründung 2012 durch Moritz Köhler hat sich Studio Komo Innenarchitekten aus Stuttgart als eine führende Boutique-Agentur etabliert.

Mit einer unverwechselbaren Designsprache, die bereits internationale Preise gewonnen hat (darunter der renommierte Frame Award 2020), steht Studio Komo Innenarchitekten für Exzellenz in der Innenarchitektur.

„Als ganzheitliche Planer entwickeln und verwirklichen wir Konzepte unter dem Claim 'holistic interior affairs'. Unsere Projekte sind farbig, materialstark und aussagekräftig. Das Besondere herauszuarbeiten, entspricht unserer DNA," so Köhler.

Studio Komo versteht, dass dynamisches Arbeiten Räume braucht, die Austausch und Begegnung ermöglichen. Ihre individuell gestalteten Arbeitswelten fördern Kommunikation und Kreativität, verbessern Arbeitsprozesse und steigern die Produktivität der Mitarbeitenden. Ein durchdachtes Design überzeugt nicht nur bestehende Mitarbeitende von ihrer Wertschätzung, sondern zieht auch neue Talente an.

Mit über 10 Jahren Erfahrung bringt Rene Rauls, der seit 2017 Teil von Studio Komo ist, seine Expertise aus der Modebranche ein: „Unsere Projekte in den Bereichen Gastronomie, Retail und private Projekte sprechen für sich und unsere Leidenschaft für Innenarchitektur.“

Rene Rauls and Moritz Köhler.

Worklab for cowoking space - Urban SpaceS.

Filmstudio, law firm - Menold Bezler.

Vorhangfenster. Foto: Moritz Schiekel, C90 Media, C90 Studio

FENSTER DER ZUKUNFT: INNOVATIVE SCHALLSCHUTZLÖSUNGEN

Mit modernster Technologie und einem unglaublichen Maß an Kreativität bietet Bellmann außergewöhnliche Fensterlösungen, die Lärm effektiv reduzieren und gleichzeitig frische Luft ermöglichen.

Zur Wendezeit im Osten gründete der Schlosser- und Schmiedemeister Steffen Bellmann seinen eigenen AluminiumLeichtbau im Erzgebirge nahe Dresden. Mit neuesten Technologien und kreativen Ideen trieb er 30 Jahre lang den Metallbau-Markt an und begeisterte innovationsfreudige Kunden. Heute wird das Unternehmen in seinem Sinne weitergeführt.

IM HANDUMDREHEN RUHE

Ein Highlight aus dem Sortiment ist das revolutionäre ‚silenzio‘-Fenster. Dieses Fenster ermöglicht es innovativen Wohnungsbesitzern und -verwaltern sowie Tischlern und

Fensterbauern, trotz weit geöffneter Fenster eine Lärmminderung von bis zu 46 dB zu erreichen. Die ‚TA Lärm‘-Richtlinien werden vollständig erfüllt, und die Verwendung von speziellem Aluminium verleiht dem Fenster außergewöhnliche Stärke und Leichtigkeit. Bellmann bietet außerdem eine RücknahmeGarantie für das ‚silenzio‘-Fenster an, was die Nachhaltigkeit des Produkts noch unterstreicht.

Die Praxiserfahrung zeigt, dass die ‚silenzio‘-Fenster auch nach acht Jahren an Wohngebäuden und Schulen überzeugen. Sie sind komplett selbstreinigend und bauen

dabei CO2 aus der Luft ab. Zudem bieten sie Absturzschutz bei geöffnetem Fenster und verhindern das Blockieren der Fensterflügel, was besonders wichtig für die Sicherheit aufsichtspflichtiger Personen ist.

RELAXEN BEI NATÜRLICHEM LICHT

Das System ist für Fenster bis zu 3x3 Metern und eine Bautiefe bis zu 1,50 Meter konzipiert, in Nordrhein-Westfalen sogar bis zu 1,60 Meter, und braucht normalerweise keinen Bauantrag. Durch die Nutzung dieser Tiefen können aus normalen Fenstern kleine ‚Lese-Relax-Sonnen-Sitz-Liege-Orte‘ oder Minigewächshäuser entstehen. Diese LeseLiege-Fenster laden dazu ein in der Sonne zu entspannen – mit natürlichem Licht. Als kleiner Wintergarten, auch als nachträglicher Balkon, und vor allem ohne Staub- und

Polleneintrag, aber mit Insektenschutz bringt das ‚silenzio‘ viele Vorteile.

Die Schallreduktion bei geschlossenem Fenster erreicht sogar bis zu 53 dB, wodurch lauter Straßenlärm auf das Niveau eines Kühlschranks reduziert wird. Fluglärm einer Einflugschneise mit startendem Flugzeug wird leiser als ein Gespräch und Lärm vom Bolzplatz ist kaum oder gar nicht mehr hörbar.

DENKMALSCHUTZ UND ENERGIEEINSPARUNG

Zu den Einsatzbereichen zählen Schlaf-, Wohn- und Kinderzimmer in Ein- und Mehrfamilienhäusern, Schulen, Büros, Hotels und Krankenhäuser. Zusätzlich liefert das ‚silenzio‘ weitere Vorteile, wie erhöhter Einbruchschutz durch einbruchssicheres Glas und schlaue Konstruktion, Denkmalschutz und sogar Energieeinsparung. Der Wärmedurchgang wird um 80% reduziert - und das bei weit geöffnetem Fenster. Der Frischluftaustausch findet weiterhin bis zu drei Mal pro Stunde statt und ein CO2-Schwellenwert kann individuell eingestellt werden.

INNERHALB VON ZWEI TAGEN RUHE

Die Montage der Fenster ist denkbar einfach und erfordert weder ein Fassadengerüst noch umfangreiches Projektmanagement. Innerhalb von zwei Tagen sind die Schallschutzfenster von außen montiert, ohne in die Wohnungen der Bewohner eingreifen zu müssen und ohne Eingriff in die Fenster-Bausubstanz. Die vorhandenen Fenster können bleiben, was natürlich Kosten spart. Bellmann liefert deutschlandweit sowie nach Österreich, in

die Schweiz und sogar bis nach Sydney in Australien. Die Lieferzeit beträgt lediglich zwei bis vier Wochen.

Bellmann bietet eine hoch-moderne Lösung für alle, die Lärm- und Thermosanierung auf höchstem Niveau suchen und dabei

gleichzeitig Energie sparen und Sicherheit gewährleisten möchten.

Heiko Weit Projektleiter 0171 – 46 50 716 www.bellmann-silenzio.de

Großprojekt Chiemgaustraße. Foto: BELLMANN

Schule Schmalkalden, Einzelfenster. Foto: BELLMANN

silenzio Seitenansicht. Foto: Moritz Schiekel, C90 Media, C90 Studio

ATELIER TÜRKE THE PATH TO UNIQUE BRAND EXPERIENCES

What story does a brand tell? How do you create an impactful brand experience at a trade fair? How can spaces be utilised most efficiently? Atelier Türke has the answers and meticulously designs the world of their clients' brands. The result? Bespoke solutions for strong brand positioning with distinctive designs.

Atelier Türke is one of the leading companies in branding and positioning, providing medium-sized businesses with a unique combination of four essential communication areas: branding, exhibition design, exhibition construction and interior architecture.

"The image of a mountain guide describes our character very well: just like a guide, our task is to lead our clients safely through diverse media landscapes," Managing Director Frank Türke explains. This guiding principle runs through the agency's entire philosophy. Since its founding in 1978, the company has con-

sistently focused on stable growth and today employs over 50 staff at its Balingen location.

Atelier Türke stands out primarily due to its holistic approach, carefully designing and staging the brand world of its clients. From developing a brand strategy to creating a corporate design and implementing exhibition stands and interiors, Atelier Türke offers fullservice solutions that cover all aspects of brand communication. "Whether small and refined or large and spectacular - in brand experiences it's all about the positive feeling," Frank Türke emphasises. "The goal is to have enthusiastic customers and brand ambassadors."

The company's strength lies not only in its comprehensive expertise but also in its collaborative, eye-level partnerships. "Our customers appreciate our warmth. Anyone who comes to us feels immediately like they are with friends," says Frank Türke. Complex issues are solved by the team at Atelier Türke with great empathy and creativity, to build

brands holistically and provide long-term support in brand management.

Currently, Atelier Türke is in the certification phase for sustainable event management according to ISO 20121. Frank Türke adds: "We are already implementing sustainable exhibition concepts for our clients that conserve resources and minimise emissions through thoughtful design."

From concept to perfect execution - Atelier

Türke is a reliable partner for medium-sized businesses, supporting its clients in sustainably bringing their brands to life.

www.atelier-tuerke.de

Managing Director Frank Türke.

Atelier Türke.

Exhibition stand Carl Hirschmann.

ATELIER TÜRKE

DER WEG ZUR EINZIGARTIGEN MARKENWELT

Welche Geschichte erzählt eine Marke? Wie gelingt ein Markenerlebnis auf der Standfläche? Wie lassen sich Räume möglichst effizient nutzen? Atelier Türke hat die Antwort auf all diese Fragen und konzipiert die Markenwelten seiner Kunden mit viel Sorgfalt. Das Resultat? Maßgeschneiderte Lösungen für eine starke Markenpositionierung mit markantem Design.

Atelier Türke ist eines der führenden Unternehmen im Bereich Markeninszenierung und -positionierung und bietet Kunden aus dem Mittelstand eine einzigartige Kombination der vier wichtigen Kommunikationsbereiche: Branding, Messedesign, Messebau und Innenarchitektur.

„Das Bild des Bergführers beschreibt unseren Charakter sehr gut: Wie ein Guide sehen auch wir unsere Aufgabe darin, unsere Kunden sicher durch verschiedenste Medienlandschaften zu führen“, erklärt Frank Türke, Geschäftsführer des Unternehmens. Dieses Leitmotiv zieht sich wie ein roter Faden durch die Firmenkultur. Seit der Gründung 1978 hat das Unternehmen kontinuierlich auf stabiles Wachstum gesetzt und beschäftigt heute über 50 Mitarbeiter am Standort Balingen.

Atelier Türke zeichnet sich vor allem durch seine ganzheitliche Herangehensweise aus, wodurch die Markenwelten der Kunden sorgfältig konzipiert und inszeniert werden. Von der Entwicklung einer Markenstrategie über Corporate Design bis hin zur Umsetzung von Messeständen und Innenräumen – Atelier Türke bietet Full-Service-Dienstleistungen, die alle Aspekte der Markenkommunikation abdecken. „Ob klein und fein oder groß und spektakulär –beim Markenerlebnis kommt es auf das positive Gefühl an“, betont Frank Türke. „Begeisterte Kunden und Markenbotschafter sind das Ziel.”

Die Stärken des Unternehmens liegen nicht nur in seiner umfassenden Expertise, sondern auch in der partnerschaftlichen Zusammenarbeit mit den Kunden. „Was unsere Kunden an uns schätzen, ist unsere Herzlichkeit. Wer zu

uns kommt, fühlt sich direkt wie bei Freunden“, beschreibt Frank Türke die Atmosphäre im Unternehmen. Komplexe Problemstellungen löst das Team von Atelier Türke mit viel Kreativität und Empathie, um Marken ganzheitlich aufzubauen und langfristig bei der Markenführung zu unterstützen.

Aktuell befindet sich Atelier Türke in der Zertifizierungsphase für nachhaltiges Veranstaltungsmanagement nach ISO 20121. Frank Türke fügt hinzu: „Für unsere Kunden setzen wir bereits jetzt nachhaltige Messekonzepte um, die aufgrund eines durchdachten Designs Ressourcen schonen und Emissionen minimieren.”

Von der Konzeption bis zur perfekten Umsetzung: Atelier Türke ist ein verlässlicher Partner für den Mittelstand und unterstützt seine Kun-

den dabei, ihre Marke nachhaltig und eindrucksvoll zu inszenieren.

www.atelier-tuerke.de

Atelier Türke.

Lounge-Bereich Renishaw.

Messestand RIDI Group.

Messestand Renishaw.

AN INTRODUCTION

TO AUSTRIAN WINES: THE COUNTRY’S TOP 5 WINES TO TRY THIS SUMMER

Austrian wines are best known around the world for their quality and innovative features. It thus seems no wonder that at the beginning of 2024, Austria’s wine exports climbed to a new record level of around 248,2 million euros which translates to around 65,3 million litres of exported wine. Let’s find out what the hype is all about.

TEXT: NANE STEINHOFF

Photo: Österreich Werbung / Peter Burgstaller

‘Small is beautiful’ – this motto best describes Austrian wine if you look at it from an international perspective. The small Alpine country produces rare and interesting wines that are sure to please any demanding palate. Austrian wines can be found on every great wine list right now and more and more wine experts appreciate them.

So, what makes Austrian wines so special?

First and foremost, the country’s long tradition in winemaking surely plays a big factor as grapevines have been cultivated here in the same matter for thousands of years. Ideal geological and climatic elements further offer the best conditions for making distinctive, tasty and authentic wines with character and personality. It also needs to be noted that Austrian vintners seem to have understood what makes wines great today: combining traditional viticulture with modern processes. The outcomes are diverse, high-quality wines without compromise. Wine connoisseurs can find everything that their heart desires in Austria: from lively, light-bodied wines to opulent white wines, fruity or full-bodied red wines, as well as elegant, sweet wines.

So, on your next trip to Austria, why not head to a wine-tasting session, plan a nice dinner that is complemented with regional wines or a visit to one of Austria’s traditional wine estates? Any of these activities will make a trip to the Alpine country a special treat. To get you inspired, we have handpicked the top five Austrian wines to try this summer, from fruity-fresh white wines to delicious reds and innovative sparkling wines.

GRÜNER VELTLINER

Grüner Veltliner, often dubbed Austria's white wine gem, boasts a long and storied history that dates back centuries. Native to Austria, this versatile grape variety thrives in the country's unique climate and soil conditions, resulting in wines that are both distinctive and exceptional. The terroir of Austria plays a crucial role in shaping the character of Grüner Veltliner wines. From the mineral-rich soils of the Wachau region to the cool climate of Kamptal, each vineyard imparts its own unique terroir-driven nuances to the final bottle.

One of the hallmarks of Grüner Veltliner is its vibrant acidity, balanced by notes of green apple, white pepper, and citrus. These flavours come together harmoniously to create a wine that is refreshing, zesty, and incredibly food-friendly. Pair it with seafood or spicy dishes for a delightful culinary experience.

RIESLING

Riesling, a renowned white wine grape variety, has carved its own niche in the world of wine enthusiasts. Among the diverse Riesling productions, Austrian Rieslings stand out for their exceptional quality and unique characteristics. Let's dive into the realm of Austrian Riesling to uncover the secrets and delights that this exquisite wine has to offer.

Originating from the stunning vineyards of Austria, Riesling grapes thrive in the favourable climate and fertile soils of the region. The terroir imparts a distinctive flavour profile to Austrian Rieslings, reflecting the essence of the land and the expertise of the winemakers. Riesling, known for its aromatic profile and balanced acidity, is a beloved choice among wine enthusiasts. This classic Austrian wine exhibits blossoming floral aromas, ripe peach flavours, and a refreshing finish. Whether enjoyed on its own or alongside Asian cuisine, Riesling never fails to impress.

SEKT (SPARKLING WINE)

Sekt, Austria's sparkling wine, exudes sophistication. This effervescent beauty, often referred to as the Austrian equivalent of Champagne, embodies elegance and sophistication in every bubble. Crafted with precision and passion, Sekt encapsulates the essence of Austrian winemaking heritage.

Originating in the picturesque vineyards of Austria, Sekt embodies a rich history dating back centuries. Made predominantly from indigenous grape varieties such as Grüner Veltliner and Welschriesling, Sekt captures

the unique terroir of the Austrian landscape. Each sip tells a story of tradition, innovation, and unwavering dedication to craftsmanship.

Crafting Sekt is a meticulous process that requires skill, patience, and expertise. From hand-harvesting the finest grapes to the precise méthode traditionelle used for second-

ary fermentation, every step in the production of Sekt is a labour of love. The result is a sparkling masterpiece that sparkles with effervescence and charm, ready to elevate any occasion. Crafted using traditional methods, Sekt offers a delightful effervescence, notes of green apple, and a crisp, dry finish. Celebrate special moments with a glass of

Photo: Österreich Werbung / Wiesenhofer

Photo: Österreich Werbung / Herzberger

Austrian Sekt and elevate your experience with every sip.

BLAUFRÄNKISCH

Blaufränkisch is a red wine grape variety that has been gaining recognition for its exceptional quality and unique flavour profile. This grape variety thrives in the moderate climate

and mineral-rich soils of Austria, producing wines that are known for their deep colour, vibrant acidity, and pronounced fruit flavours. Blaufränkisch, a rich and robust red wine, showcases dark fruit flavours, spicy undertones, and a velvety texture. The versatility of Blaufränkisch wines makes them a delightful addition to any dining experience. Whether

paired with savoury roasted meats, hearty stews, or even a selection of aged cheeses, Blaufränkisch wines elevate the flavours of the dish and create a harmonious culinary pairing that is sure to impress even the most discerning palate.

In recent years, Blaufränkisch wines have been garnering attention in the international stage, with wine enthusiasts and critics alike praising their exceptional quality and distinctive character. This newfound popularity has propelled Blaufränkisch to the forefront of the Austrian wine scene, solidifying its place as a hidden gem waiting to be discovered by wine lovers around the world.

ZWEIGELT

Zweigelt, a lesser-known gem of Austrian winemaking, stands out for its unique characteristics and flavours that captivate the palate of wine enthusiasts worldwide. This versatile red wine grape variety, created by Fritz Zweigelt in 1922, has since gained recognition for its exceptional quality. Zweigelt wines are celebrated for their vibrant red colour and enticing aromas of dark fruits, such as black cherries and plums, with a hint of spice that adds depth to each sip. The palate is treated to a harmonious blend of fruitiness and acidity, creating a balanced and elegant tasting experience that lingers delightfully on the tongue.

When it comes to food pairings, Zweigelt wines truly shine. Their versatility allows them to complement a wide range of dishes, from roasted duck and grilled lamb to hearty stews and aged cheeses. The fruity notes of Zweigelt beautifully enhance the flavours of savoury and rich foods, creating a symphony of taste that elevates any dining experience.

Photo: Österreich Werbung / Himsl

Photo: Österreich Werbung / Viennaslide

BLURRING BOUNDARIES BETWEEN THE REAL AND THE DIGITAL

In Berlin, visitors can experience a parallel cosmos of expansive light installations in which the boundaries between the real and the digital worlds become blurred. The DARK MATTER exhibition is a multi-dimensional parallel world of light, space and sound.

TEXT: NANE STEINHOFF

Photo: Eric Bauermeister

Within the pitch-black rooms of a converted factory, the visitor embarks on a journey through seven partly interactive works. Light, movement and sound fuse into emotional choreographies of luminous shapes and colours.

Built across 1,000 square meters of exhibition space, DARK MATTER presents a range of multimedia installations. These vary from breathtakingly intimate light compositions to interactive walk-in structures, and roomencompassing audiovisual performances. Some works are supported with a worldwide unique 3D-sound system. Each room possesses an own individual atmosphere that unfolds upon entry, creating a holistic and one-of-a-kind experience; a space to be enjoyed by visitors of all ages and backgrounds.

Behind this pioneering experience is visionary German light artist and designer Christopher

Bauder and his design studio WHITEvoid. Bauder is also the founder of the innovative lighting technology producer KINETIC LIGHTS and is known for his large-scale art installations and performances that explore the effects of light and sound on human perception and emotion. “There are still a lot of borders we can push to change traditional listening experiences and visual perception and I am interested in pursuing it,” explains Christopher Bauder his artistic approach. He continues: “I use light as an ephemeral material that can be shaped and formed even though it’s not really tangible. Light is hard to tame, and its properties are often surprising and difficult to control. But especially this his makes light a very lively and alive material to work with.”

Parallel to his work, Bauder is simultaneously furthering his career as a light and media artist across the world and is best known for his expansive light art installations such as LICHTGRENZE which he created with his broth-

er Marc in 2014 to commemorate the 25th anniversary of the fall of the Berlin Wall. His latest project SKALAR, conceived alongside music producer Kangding Ray, has already been visited by more than 200,000 people in Berlin, Zurich, Amsterdam, and Mexico City.

Collectively, the team’s extensive portfolio includes the prolific installations DEEP WEB and SKALAR at Kraftwerk Berlin. In 2014, Bauder and WHITEvoid were also responsible for LICHTGRENZE, in which they imagined of and produced 8,000 luminescent balloons to mark the 25th anniversary of the fall of the Berlin Wall.

In cooperation with other innovative technology partners, DARK MATTER operates as a space for continued experimentation. 15 years of technical innovation and creative vision come together in this collection of unique light installations, some of which have never been displayed to the public before.

Photo: WHITEvoid

THE EXHIBITION

DARK MATTER takes the audience on a journey through darkness and light in seven chapters. Visitors move through the exhibits and interact with the objects, sound, light and surrounding space. In this way, everyone experiences the exhibition uniquely. For a series of moments, the fast pace of everyday life gives way to meditative, hypnotic power of light, motion and sound.

The exhibition is a living organism that will evolve and transform over time, illuminating the darkness of the exhibition spaces in new and varied ways. DARK MATTER remains ethereal and always in motion, a vision that only takes shape for brief moments.

Most of DARK MATTER’s installations are based on developments by the innovative lighting technology manufacturer KINETIC LIGHTS, which have been either specially adapted or newly developed for the exhibition.

‘Kinetic lighting’ refers to suspended lighting elements in a wide variety of shapes which are artfully synchronized with the help of computer-controlled motorized winches.

Combining state-of-the-art technology with an artistic approach, KINETIC LIGHTS has developed a completely new lighting aesthet-

ic that is unique to the art, event and entertainment industry worldwide.

SOMMERLIGHTS 2024

With his latest art installation FLOW, light artist Christopher Bauder is once again lighting up the Berlin night this summer. Dutch musician Chris Kuijten composed the multi-channel, immersive soundtrack. The large-format work will be on display in the outdoor area of DARK MATTER until 29 September from sunset as part of SOMMERLIGHTS 2024.

FLOW describes the exhilarating feeling of complete immersion and total absorption in a seemingly endless moment. FLOW describes the state of total detachment, a state in which you forget space and time. You are in the moment and completely absorbed in it.

The state of FLOW is as easy and natural as breathing. This vague yet concrete feeling of being in FLOW is what we long for in life. Everything is in perfect balance. We forget time. We lose ourselves. FLOW is a fleeting

Photo: WHITEvoid Photo: Ralph Larmann

Photo: Ralph Larmann

moment of stillness where everything fits, everything makes sense and the world is simply beautiful. FLOW changes and yet is so light, so deeply rooted in us and as simple as breathing.

The gigantic light art sculpture is made up of 1,000 partially movable lights with over 30,000 individually controllable light points. The computer-generated, floating sculpture glows in infinite shapes and patterns, as if organically drawn by nature, yet technically perfect. Endless waves breaking on a distant

beach, the water moving towards the visitor, then receding, only to approach again with the next wave. A constant up and down, back and forth. Everything is in motion and flux, everything changes, nothing stays the same, and yet in that moment you feel suspended and in FLOW.

The light installation consists of a 45-minute show that repeats throughout the evening after sunset. There are no fixed start times, you can come at any time and stay as long as you like.

LIVE MUSIC & MORE

This year, the event series will once again feature a colourful mix of events in addition to the classic installation: On selected evenings, Bauder's FLOW installation will be transformed into the setting for exciting DJ and live sets. In addition to Max Cooper and KiNK, who were already at the controls at SOMMERLIGHTS LIVE last year, further artists will be added in the course of the season. Interested parties can find out the exact dates via Instagram and the DARK MATTER homepage, as well as the newsletter.

TICKETS

• Tickets for FLOW @ SOMMERLIGHTS cost10-12 EUR.

• The ticket price for LIVE @ SOMMERLIGHTS is different for different live acts.

• Permanent exhibition + FLOW @ SOMMERLIGHTS combo ticket: 26-28 EUR

ADDRESS Köpenicker Chaussee 46 10317 Berlin - Lichtenberg Germany

www.darkmatter.berlin

Photo: Frank Sauer

Photo: Ralph Larmann

Photo: Ralph Larmann

NIKEATA THOMPSON

“DREAMS

ARE CREATED IN STILLNESS AND MOTIVATION CAN BE FOUND IN MOTION”

Professional actress and choreographer Nikeata Thompson is best known for her appearances in  Germany’s Next Topmodel, Got To Dance and Masters of Dance We met up with her to talk about her acting career, her latest project Pauline, and the significance of founding her own dance agency.

INTERVIEW BY NANE STEINHOFF

Discover Germany: You have danced professionally for a long time. What advice would you give to young dancers to establish themselves in the industry?

Nikeata Thompson: “Dare to dream and keep following your dreams. Continuous practice and presence are the keys to success. I am convinced that hard work pays off. My own path was quite unpredictable, but that's exactly why I strongly believe that you can draw strength from your own dreams. In the beginning, I had no concept, no business plan - I just wanted to dance. I was driven by my great passion and even greater will to make my own dream come true. Now I help others to pursue their own path.”

Discover Germany: In addition to your success on Germany's Next Topmodel or Got To Dance and Masters of Dance, you also founded the NT Dance Agency. What is the background? What do you want to achieve?

Nikeata Thompson: “In fact, many people have gotten to know me as a judge from several TV shows such as Got to Dance, Masters of Dance or Germany's Next Topmodel alongside Heidi Klum. What most people don’t know is that long before my TV career, I was already working as a choreographer and also brought dancers and productions, musicians and artists together, back then with my flip phone. In 2011, I founded my agency NT AGENCY, which is now one of the most successful dance agencies in Germany. Today, we represent over 150 talents, providing them with job opportunities in TV, cinema and stage productions such as The Voice Of Germany. We aim to give young, up-and-coming talents the chance to be booked by clients and artists and to receive professional support in the process. Our mission is simple: We believe that dancers - including new dance styles - should be accepted as complete artists, and that they should be able to fulfill their dreams and bring joy to a large audi-

Photo: Tatsiana Tribunalova

ence with their art. We are also responsible for ensuring good work conditions and fair payment.”

Discover Germany: Your latest project Pauline is currently streaming on Disney+. What can viewers look forward to?

Nikeata Thompson: “The viewers can look forward to experiencing the perfect contrasts between good and evil. The young actors embody angels and devils who fall in love despite all the odds. Showing that opposites can attract. With an intense storyline, action-packed scenes, direct humour and mysterious characters with inexplicable superpowers, Pauline has everything the perfect binge series needs, to draw you in under its spell.”

Discover Germany: What did you love most about the shoot?

Nikeata Thompson: “My personal highlight is the extraordinary, talented cast and the very familiar vibe that we had - both in front

of the camera and behind the scenes. It was a very memorable time that I always treasure. With Sira, my daughter in the series, I immediately felt a close connection that continues to this day.”

Discover Germany: What do you love most about your role in Pauline? How did you prepare for it?

Nikeata Thompson: “My character ‘Carla’, who seems to have lost all hope after the loss of her husband, refuses to give up. She is a good soul. She loves her daughter more than anything and supports her in realizing her dreams, even if this means that she has to part with her daughter for a while. Her daughter's determination and desire for freedom also inspire Carla herself not to lose sight of her own needs and to take on the responsibility for her own happiness. To make sure I'm as prepared as possible for my role, I study a lot, I take acting lessons, and I practice a lot by myself. With my background as a former professional dancer, I was self-

taught through my own efforts. Continuously working on myself and always accepting new challenges is important to me, as I know that this is a very essential way I can develop and grow mentally and within my artistic abilities.”

Discover Germany: How did you become an actress? What do you love most about the profession?

Nikeata Thompson: “I actually had my acting debut on the big screen next to Jella Haase in Lollipop Monster in 2011. I recently had the pleasure to work with her again for the very successful Fack Ju Göthe sequel Chantal im Märchenland directed by Bora Dagtekin. After over 20 years in the entertainment industry, it's always something very special to share a project with a group of great talented actors over a longer period of time which allows you to grow closer together. It has this kind of family character to it and that's what I particularly appreciate about acting, as well as the opportunity to shape-shift and to take on different roles.”

Photo: Tatsiana Tribunalova

Photo: Rakuto Makino

Discover Germany: Why did you choose to live in Berlin? What do you love about this city?

Nikeata Thompson: “In fact, Berlin offers such a variety of great places and activities, that even after more than 20 years in this city, I am still discovering new spots regularly. The city is pretty much as wide-ranging as I am myself.”

Discover Germany: Your favourite place or activity in Berlin?

Nikeata Thompson: “At the beginning of 2020, I moved my agency office to Prenzlauer Berg and have really come to love this part of town. The social interaction in the neighbourhood, the many interesting people and, above all, the kids make this area a unique place to be. Even after four years, I still discover new restaurants, cafés, and new spots where to enjoy life.

But I also love walking around the urban side of the city in Kreuzberg or strolling through the small boutiques in Mitte. To recharge my batteries and simply enjoy some peace and quiet, I also like to get out a bit further into nature. Berlin simply has something to offer for every walk of life.”

Discover Germany: What else is planned for 2024? Any more exciting projects in the pipeline

Nikeata Thompson: “2024 is an absolute adventure for me personally. Pauline is finally out on Disney+ and I have wrapped my first role in the main cast which will be coming out soon. I'm still able to realise various great projects with my company NT AGENCY. Among others for artists such as Cro, the Elevator Boys or Sadeck Waff, for whom me and my team have provided 40 dancers for the UEFA Euro2024 in Berlin at the Brandenburg Gate. 2024 is already bringing

a number of highlights and I am excited and open to everything that is yet to come.”

Discover Germany: What other wishes and dreams do you still have?

Nikeata Thompson: “My main wish for the future is to be healthy. And to bring more balance into my everyday life, both personally and professionally. I wish to find a way to bring more peace and quiet into my busy schedule. I can actually very well imagine one day swapping city life for a new countryside life and working with people in a new environment, because I believe that dreams are created in stillness and motivation can be found in motion. I wouldn't want to swap the big screen though. But I wish to find a beautiful place in the countryside where I can recharge my batteries.”

Pauline is now streaming on Disney+.

Pauline promo image. Photo: © 2024 Disney and its affiliates

Photo: Tatsiana Tribunalova

TERRASSENCAMPINGSCHLIERBACH A GEM IN THE ODENWALD

Looking for a natural camping experience in an idyllic setting in Hesse, far away from the hustle and bustle? Terrassencamping Schlierbach has got you covered.

Established in the late 1960s by Grandfather Peter Bauer in Schlierbach, Terrassencamping-Schlierbach has evolved from a former agricultural site into a beloved campsite. Today, it’s run by the third generation and boasts a stunning west-facing location. A small brook meanders through the grounds, and the spacious pitches offer a sense of freedom and expansiveness. From the two bubble tents in the upper area, one can enjoy incredible views of the sunset.

Visitors can look forward to numerous amenities, including a baked goods delivery service with freshly baked rolls, delicious coffee from an espresso machine, homemade honey and lavender butter. Sustainability is a top priority at the campsite, with significant recent investments in electric appliances, a large photovoltaic system and a new heating system. PET bottles are a strict no-go here, and regional suppliers are supported.

The campsite caters to a variety of guests, from young families and passing motorhome travellers to those seeking peace and quiet. Its central location at the edge of the Odenwald offers countless opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, bouldering, climbing and paragliding. There’s even an exclusive boulder right on the grounds.

Surrounded by the legendary Nibelungenland and the Odenwald with its castles, forests and valleys, Terrassencamping-Schlierbach invites guests to experience nature up close and enjoy a relaxing time away from the everyday grind.

www.terrassencamping-schlierbach.de

TERRASSENCAMPINGSCHLIERBACH EIN JUWEL IM ODENWALD

Naturnahes Camping in idyllischer Lage in Hessen, fernab von Hektik und Stress? Terrassencamping Schlierbach macht genau das möglich.

Terrassencamping-Schlierbach, gegründet Ende der 60er Jahre von Großvater Peter Bauer in Schlierbach, hat sich von der vorherigen Landwirtschaft zu einem beliebten Campingplatz entwickelt und wird in dritter Generation bewirtschaftet. Heute bietet er eine traumhafte Lage an einem Westhang. Durch das Gelände fließt ein kleiner Bachlauf und die großzügigen Stellplätze vermitteln ein Gefühl von Freiheit und Weite. Von den zwei Bubbletents in der oberen Lage kann man zudem einen unglaublichen Bick in den Sonnenuntergang genießen

Die Besucher können sich auf zahlreiche Annehmlichkeiten freuen, darunter ein Brötchenservice mit frisch gebackenen Brötchen, köstlicher Kaffee aus einer Siebträgermaschine, hausgemachter Honig und Lavendelbutter. Nachhaltigkeit wird auf dem Campingplatz großgeschrieben, wurde in den letzten Jahren viel in Elektro-Geräte, eine großflächige PV-Anlage und eine neue Heizanlage investiert. Auch auf PET-Flaschen wird komplett verzichtet und regionale Lieferanten werden unterstützt.

Der Campingplatz richtet sich an verschiedene Zielgruppen, von jungen Familien über durchreisende Wohnmobilisten bis hin zu ruhebedürftigen Gästen. Dabei bietet die zentrale Lage am Rande des vorderen Odenwaldes unzählige Möglichkeiten zum Wandern, Mountainbiking, Bouldern, Klettern und Gleitschirmfliegen. Es gibt sogar einen eigenen Boulder direkt auf dem Gelände.

Umgeben vom sagenumwobenen Nibelungenland und dem Odenwald mit seinen Burgen, Wäldern und Tälern, lädt TerrassencampingSchlierbach ein, die Natur hautnah zu erleben und eine erholsame Zeit fernab vom Alltag zu genießen.

Our terraced campsite is beautifully situated in an idyllic and peaceful location on the southwest slope, at the foot of the Lindenfels castle ruins. Bushes, trees, and hedges separate the individual pitches, and we are surrounded by the forests and meadows of the legendary Odenwald (Hesse).

Website: www.terrassencamping-schlierbach.de

Call us: +49 6255 630

Email us: info@terrassencamping-schlierbach.de

Reception opening hours: Monday to Sunday: 11:00 - 12.00 hrs | 15.00 - 19.00 hrs

Unser terrassenförmig angelegter Campingplatz liegt idyllisch und ruhig am Südwesthang, am Fuße der Burgruine Lindenfels. Büsche, Bäume und Hecken unterteilen die einzelnen Stellplätze voneinander, und wir sind umgeben von den Wäldern und Wiesen des sagenumwobenen Odenwaldes (Hessen).

Webseite: www.terrassencamping-schlierbach.de

Rufen Sie uns an: +49 6255 630

Schreiben Sie uns eine Mail: info@terrassencamping-schlierbach.de

Rezeption Öffnungszeiten: Montag bis Sonntag: 11:00 - 12.00 Uhr | 15.00 - 19.00 Uhr

BETTER THAN A HOLIDAY?

Warm water laps at the shoreline, coconut trees swaying with the wind. Tucked away, not far behind, a space to retreat is balancing the mind, body & emotions of its retreating guests. Husma’s breath retreat in Sri Lanka offers mental, emotional and physical renewal days.

Is something inside of you calling for change? There’s more, and you know it, but where can you find it? It’s time to take a holiday with purpose, to discover what it truly means to refresh and regenerate.

Can a retreat really be more recharging than a normal holiday?

“Our goal,” say founders and instructors Martina Drechsel and Alexander Keil, “is

www.cosytimesceramics.dk

Instagram: @cosytimesceramics.kerteminde

to teach people how to live a healthier and more fulfilling life. We share the fascinating connection between mind, body and emotions. And provide sustainable personal growth and health tools to guide each participant in every step of their own journey.”

Take a breath and redefine yourself in the natural beauty of this island paradise. This is your chance to discover a new life of fulfilment. Scan the QR code or book a free discovery call on the website for more information.

www.husma-retreats.com

TEXT: ALEXANDER KEIL & DANIEL AKMENS PHOTOS: HUSMA

STAY INFORMED WITH ISA-GUIDE.DE

IMMER GUT INFORMIERT MIT ISA-GUIDE.DE

If you are interested in reliable news from the world of gambling, you can rely on ISA-GUIDE.de.

Founded in 1998 by former professional gambler Reinhold Schmitt, ISA-GUIDE.de is Europe's largest information portal on all aspects of gambling.

“With ISA-GUIDE.de we offer a platform where the most important news from the gambling industry can be easily accessed. We conduct interviews with the most important players in the industry and report on major tournaments. In addition to the latest news, such as relevant court decisions or the most important regulatory changes, we publish exclusive news from our partners, branch-specific job vacancies as well as events, and also report on relevant trade fairs and conferences,” relates Ulli Schmitt, the current managing director and son of the founder.

This diversity of topics makes ISA-GUIDE.de the ideal platform for B2C and B2B customers, including casinos, state lotteries, slot machine manufacturers, sports betting providers and addiction prevention organisations.

ISA-GUIDE.de is characterised by its highly topical, cross-sector and, above all, neutral content. Partners and customers can rely on a comprehensive presentation.

The quality and reliability of the information platform is regularly confirmed by the highest authorities, as Schmitt points out: “ISAGUIDE.de is regularly mentioned at relevant conferences and in legal articles. Our platform has also been referred to in court decisions.”

www.isa-guide.de

Wer sich für seriöse Neuigkeiten aus der Welt des Glücksspiels interessiert, kann sich auf ISA-GUIDE.de verlassen.

1998 vom ehemaligen Profispieler Reinhold Schmitt gegründet, ist ISAGUIDE.de heute Europas größtes Informationsportal rund um das Thema Glücksspiel.

„Mit ISA-GUIDE.de bieten wir eine Plattform, auf der die wichtigsten Neuigkeiten aus der Glücksspielbranche einfach und übersichtlich abrufbar sind. Wir führen Interviews mit den wichtigsten Playern der Branche und berichten über große Turniere. Neben aktuell recherchierten Nachrichten wie relevanten Gerichtsurteilen oder den wichtigsten regulatorischen Änderungen veröffentlichen wir exklusive Branchennews unserer Partner, stellen branchenspezifische Stellenangebote und einen umfangreichen Veranstaltungskalender online und berichten außerdem über Messen und Konferenzen der Branche”, so Ulli Schmitt, der heutige Geschäftsführer und Sohn des Gründers.

Mit dieser thematischen Vielfalt ist ISA-GUIDE.de die optimale Plattform für B2C- und B2B-Kunden, zu denen Spielbanken ebenso gehören wie staatliche Lotterien, Automatenhersteller Sportwettenanbieter und Einrichtungen der Suchtprävention.

Was ISA-GUIDE.de dabei besonders auszeichnet, ist die hochaktuelle, branchenübergreifende und vor allem neutrale Berichterstattung. Partner und Kunden können sich darauf verlassen, umfassend präsentiert zu werden.

Die Qualität und Seriosität der Informationsplattform wird regelmäßig von höchsten Stellen bestätigt, wie Schmitt betont: „ISA-GUIDE.de wird regelmäßig auf branchenrelevanten Konferenzen und in juristischen Fachartikeln erwähnt. Auch in Urteilsbegründungen wurde bereits auf unsere Plattform verwiesen.”

The ISA-GUIDE owners at the 45th anniversary celebration of the Hamburg casino.

The ISA-GUIDE owners at the 45th anniversary celebration of the Hamburg casino.

GERMANY’S HOME OF FOOTBALL

A Happy End wasn’t to be for the locals but regardless, Euro 2024 was a success story in Germany. Packed fan zones, great football, new friends, and a stadium that is one of a kind. Join us on a journey to the Round of 16 clash between Germany and Denmark in Dortmund. A city that loves football with probably the best atmosphere in Europe.

TEXT & PHOTOS: DANIEL BARTHOLD

After days of rainfall, it was a warm and sunny morning on June 29th, the day Germany faced Denmark in the Round of 16 of Euro 2024. After an early arrival at Dortmund Airport, plenty of English supporters embarked to Gelsenkirchen for the match against Slovakia, not far from Dortmund. The city on the eastern corner of the Ruhr Area, the big industrial region of the country, is a football-mad hub. Borussia Dortmund is one of the biggest clubs in the Bundesliga and they just recently made the Champions League Final losing 2-0 to Real Madrid at Wembley. During Euro 2024, Dortmund was one of the ten host cities and every time the German national team is in town you can feel the home advantage even stronger than in Berlin, Munich, or Stuttgart.

Right across Dortmund Central Station, several thousand supporters were already on the march to Friedensplatz, one of the big squares downtown, to enjoy the fan fest en

route to Signal Iduna Park, the giant home stadium with a capacity of 81,365 which makes it the biggest football ground in Germany. For international matches it is slightly reduced but it never loses its intensity, noise, and fascination with the Yellow Wall – the most impressive home end in European football. Many tourists travel to Borussia Dortmund matches from abroad throughout the season, drinking in the incredible atmosphere and for Euro 2024, one could sense the change of perception towards the German national team. After three successive poor major tournaments, the head coach Julian Nagelsmann seemed to have lost his mojo. The Germans used to be pioneers in getting the job done, however, at two World Cups in a row they did not even manage to get out of the group stages, something that had never happened before.

Euro 2024 started brightly for Germany though with a 5-1 victory over Scotland in

Munich, followed by a convincing 2-0 against Hungary in Stuttgart, and a scrappy 1-1 against the Swiss in Frankfurt. In Dortmund, the Danes were waiting who consider matches against the DFB-Team a derby, and both sets of fans were in full swing. The euphoria in the city centre woke up memories from the unforgettable 2006 World Cup on German soil and belief grew daily. Times are tough and the togetherness during the European Championship was noticeable at every corner. When you arrive at Signal Iduna Park, or Westfalenstadion, which is its original name, one can feel the power of this football ground for the City of Dortmund. The club and its stadium are the pulse of a working-class area with such a rich football history.

Steep stands, seats close to the pitch, and a huge number of German supporters boosted the team to beat Denmark 2-0 on the night. It was a knockout game that made the locals feel they could aim for a 4th European title

on home soil. Even days after the victory, belief was growing ahead of a very difficult clash with Spain. And football can be cruel at times as the Germans were knocked out with a late extra-time goal in Stuttgart. The Spanish progressed to the semi-final and Julian Nagelsmann’s men once again exited a major tournament early. But this time, it was different. The fans appreciated the effort, stood behind the team, and with young players, like Jamal Musiala or Florian Wirtz, there is a bright future ahead for the “Deutsche Nationalmannschaft”. In two years, the World Cup will be hosted in the US, Canada, and Mexico – a tournament where Germany feel they can challenge for the big prize. And the locals won something even more important: the respect of an entire continent visiting the Heart of Europe. Scottish, Dutch, Spanish, English, German, and Turkish supporters celebrating together, it made the pain of the quarterfinal loss so much more bearable. In Dortmund, it was a great day of football that was rounded with a visit to the German Football Museum. To have this landmark located here, particularly underlines the significance of the sport in the city, with a stadium that truly feels like “Germany’s Home of Football”.

Information on Borussia Dortmund’s home stadium you can find here: www.bvb.de/de/en/signal-iduna-park.html

Einfach mal tief einatmen!

Jetzt entspannt Frischluftlösungen für Ihr Zuhause entdecken.

BADEPARADIES SCHWARZWALD:

LET GO, DIVE IN AND FEEL GOOD

Open 365 days a year, Badeparadies Schwarzwald in TitiseeNeustadt offers unique experiences in three heavenly settings.

Caribbean atmosphere with real palm trees, impressive architecture, action, recreation and relaxation - there is something for everyone at Badeparadies Schwarzwald. So what will it be?

What about the Palm Oasis? Swaying palm trees, colourful orchids, four mineral pools and daily specials create a haven where guests can recharge their batteries. The pool bar with its wide selection of exotic cocktails adds to the holiday feeling.

With over 6,000 m2, Palais Vital’s sauna landscape is a highlight for all wellness lovers! Twelve lovingly designed themed saunas and six soothing vitality pools are waiting to be discovered. A relaxing massage in the exclusive massage lounge completes a visit to this oasis of wellness. Children, families and adrenaline junkies will love Galaxy Schwarzwald. The Black Forrest’s most spectacular water park promises unlimited fun with over 25 attractions and 23 action-packed slides!

A delicious culinary offer, exciting attractions such as the Summer Concert Festival in early August and the BLUPHORIA app, which lets you discover attractive benefits and exciting offers, round off the unique holiday experience at Badeparadies Schwarzwald.

www.badeparadies-schwarzwald.de/en

LOSLASSEN, ABTAUCHEN UND WOHLFÜHLEN IM BADEPARADIES SCHWARZWALD

An 365 Tagen im Jahr öffnet das Badeparadies Schwarzwald in Titisee-Neustadt seine Pforten für einmalige Erlebnisse in drei paradiesische Bereiche.

Karibische Atmosphäre mit echten Palmen, beeindruckende Architektur, Action, Erholung und Entspannung - im Badeparadies Schwarzwald kommen alle auf ihre Kosten. Was darf es also sein?

Die Palmenoase vielleicht? Wogende Palmen, bunte Orchideen, vier Mineralienpools und tägliche Verwöhnangebote vereinen sich hier zu einem wahren Kraftort, an dem man verlorene Energien auftanken kann. Die Poolbar mit ihrer großen Auswahl an exotischen Cocktails sorgt für echtes Urlaubsfeeling.

Das Palais Vital mit seiner Saunalandschaft von über 6.000 m2 ist ein echtes Highlight für alle Wellnessliebhaber! Hier warten zwölf liebevoll gestaltete Themensaunen und sechs wohltuende Vitalpools darauf, entdeckt zu werden. Eine entspannende Massage in der exklusiven Massagelounge rundet den Besuch ab. Kinder, Familien und Adrenalinjunkies freuen sich über Galaxy Schwarzwald. Das aufregendste Erlebnisbad des Schwarzwalds verspricht mit über 25 Attraktionen und 23

actiongeladenen Rutschen grenzenlosen Wasserspaß!

Ein leckeres kulinarisches Angebot, spannende Attraktionen wie das Sommer-Konzertfestival Anfang August und die BLUPHORIA-App, mit der man attraktive Vorteile und spannende Angebote entdecken und nutzen kann, machen das einzigartige Urlaubserlebnis Badeparadies Schwarzwald perfekt!

www.badeparadies-schwarzwald.de

TENERIFE'S TOP 5-STAR LUXURY HOTEL

Are you looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life?

The ideal retreat awaits you at the 5-star luxury Hotel Botánico & The Oriental Spa Garden in Puerto de la Cruz, Tenerife. This toptier hideaway invites discerning guests to revel in the island's perfect climate, no matter the season.

Nestled within a captivating 25,000 square meter subtropical garden, Hotel Botánico & The Oriental Spa Garden is a true gem dedicated to service excellence, sustainability, and art. Guests can enjoy an array of amenities designed to make their stay under the Canarian sun an unforgettable experience. Located on Tenerife's north coast, the hotel offers magnificent views of Mount Teide, Spain's highest peak and an impressive volcano.

From the finest international cuisine in five exquisite restaurants to timeless elegance and a multi-award-winning spa, the hotel excels in every aspect. As one of the first luxury hotels in the Canary Islands and a proud member of ‘The Leading Hotels of the World’, Hotel Botánico & The Oriental Spa Garden boasts a rich history and exceptional service. It has garnered numerous accolades, including the ‘Condé Nast Johansens Award’ for the best hotel spa in Europe. The hotel's charm is further enhanced by the personal touch of the owning family, who have curated an extensive collection of Canarian art. Additionally, the hotel offers fantastic event facilities, including eight meeting rooms and beautiful outdoor gardens - perfect for weddings, corporate events, and cocktail parties.

Discover the ultimate blend of peace, elegance, and luxury at Hotel Botánico & The Oriental Spa Garden - Tenerife's premier 5-star destination.

www.hotelbotanico.com/en

TENERIFFAS TOP 5-STERNE-LUXUSHOTEL

Möchten Sie der Hektik des Alltags entfliehen? Der ideale Rückzugsort erwartet Sie im 5-Sterne-Luxushotel Botánico & The Oriental Spa Garden in Puerto de la Cruz, Teneriffa. Dieses erstklassige Refugium lädt anspruchsvolle Gäste dazu ein, das perfekte Klima der Insel zu jeder Jahreszeit zu genießen.

Eingebettet in einen 25.000 Quadratmeter großen subtropischen Garten, ist das Hotel Botánico & The Oriental Spa Garden ein wahres Juwel, das sich einem hervorragenden Service, Nachhaltigkeit und Kunst verschrieben hat. Die Gäste können eine Reihe von Annehmlichkeiten genießen, die ihren Aufenthalt unter der kanarischen Sonne zu einem unvergesslichen Erlebnis machen. Das Hotel liegt an der Nordküste Teneriffas und bietet einen atemberaubenden Blick auf den Teide, den höchsten Berg Spaniens und einen beeindruckenden Vulkan.

Von der feinsten internationalen Küche in fünf exquisiten Restaurants bis hin zu zeitloser Eleganz und einem mehrfach ausgezeichneten Spa - das Hotel zeichnet sich in jeder Hinsicht aus. Als eines der ersten Luxushotels auf den Kanarischen Inseln und stolzes Mitglied von ‚The Leading Hotels of the World‘ verfügt das Hotel Botánico & The Oriental Spa Garden über eine reiche Geschichte und außergewöhnlichen Service. Es hat zahlreiche Auszeichnungen erhalten, darunter den ‚Condé Nast Johansens Award‘ für den besten Hotel-Spa in Europa. Der Charme des Hotels wird verstärkt durch die persönliche Note der Eigentümerfamilie, die eine umfangreiche Sammlung kanarischer Kunst zusammengetragen hat. Dar-

über hinaus bietet das Hotel fantastische Veranstaltungseinrichtungen, darunter acht Tagungsräume und eine wunderschöne Gartenanlage –perfekt für Hochzeiten, Firmenveranstaltungen und Cocktailpartys.

Entdecken Sie die ultimative Mischung aus Ruhe, Eleganz und Luxus im Hotel Botánico & The Oriental Spa Garden – Teneriffas führendem 5-Sterne-Ziel.

www.hotelbotanico.com/de

SPECIAL THEME: MEETINGS, EVENTS & INCENTIVE TRIPS

Let someone else do the planning

Managing an event is a major task. To make your life easier and to get a better outcome, why not seek some help from professionals in the field? We introduce some of the industry’s top companies and locations for your events in the following special theme.

TEXT: NANE STEINHOFF I PHOTOS: UNSPLASH

BLEISURE IN NUREMBERG: EVENTS, CULTURE AND CUISINE

With ideal conditions for visitors and its perfect mix of business and leisure, Nuremberg is an outstanding destination for socalled ‘bleisure travel’.

Brimming with culture and history, wonderful sights and distinguished restaurants as well as a diverse business and science landscape, Nuremberg truly offers anything needed for a successful stay. The city is quick and easy to reach by train and plane.

The historical old town alone is a must for any visitor. Its impressive architecture and lively flair can best be enjoyed during a leisurely stroll through cobblestone streets. Furthermore, numerous museums attract both culture lovers and families with exciting insights into the past, present and future. The quartiere-nuernberg.de app meanwhile offers a multitude of insider tips and voucher codes and is ideal for self explorers.

After a full day of meetings and cultural input, Nuremberg’s gourmet restaurants attract with a multitude of culinary delights. “Dining Affairs” offers upscale dining highlights from traditional Franconian cuisine to innovative gourmet creations.

Nuremberg effortlessly unites work and leisure and entices with a comfortable bleisure travel environment. If for business or a perfect time out – the city offers all the necessary contents for an unforgettable trip.

www.nuernberg-convention.de/de-de

BLEISURE IN NÜRNBERG: VERANSTALTUNGEN, KULTUR UND KULINARIK

Nürnberg ist ein hervorragendes Ziel für Bleisure-Reisende. Mit der perfekten Mischung aus Business und Freizeit, auch Bleisure genannt, bietet die Destination ideale Bedingungen für den nächsten Besuch.

Mit einer reichen Kulturgeschichte und Sehenswürdigkeiten, hervorragenden Restaurants und einer vielfältigen Wirtschaft und Wissenschaft, bietet die Stadt alles, was man für einen gelungenen Aufenthalt braucht. Zudem ist Nürnberg durch seine gute Anbindung mit Zug und Flugzeug schnell und bequem zu erreichen.

Die historische Altstadt ist ein Muss für jeden Besuchenden. Bei einem Spaziergang durch die gepflasterten Straßen kann die beeindruckende Architektur und das lebendige Flair genossen werden. Kulturliebhabende und Familien kommen in den zahlreichen Museen auf ihre Kosten, die spannende Einblicke in die Vergangenheit, Gegenwart und Zukunft bieten. Die Quartiers-Webapp eignet sich super für flexible Selbsterkundende. Mit Insidergeschichten und Gutscheincodes ein echter Geheimtipp!

Nach einem Tag voller Geschäftstreffen und kultureller Erlebnisse laden Nürnbergs Fine-Dining-Restaurants zum Genießen ein. Unsere "Dining Affairs" präsentieren kulinarische Upscale-Dining Highlights der Stadt. Von diversen traditionell fränkischen bis innovativen GourmetKreationen ist alles dabei.

Nürnberg vereint mühelos Arbeit und Freizeit und bietet eine angenehme Umgebung für einen gelungenen Bleisure-Trip. Ob geschäftlich unterwegs oder auf der Suche nach einer Auszeit – die Stadt hat alles, was für einen unvergesslichen Aufenthalt benötigt wird.

Nuremberg Old Town, Pegnitz river bank.

Photo: Christine Dierenbach © ctz-nuremberg

Nuremberg Old Town, areal view.

Photo: Kristof Goettling © ctz-nuremberg

Nuremberg Old Town, Pegnitz river bank.

Photo: Christine Dierenbach © ctz-nuremberg

Nuremberg city stroll.

Photo: Florian Trykowski © ctz-nuremberg

MEET

einander in Nürnberg

unkompliziert - unaufgeregt - unerwartet

Unkompliziert steht bei uns für kurze Wege – nicht nur durch hervorragende urbane Strukturen, sondern durch persönliche Nähe. Wir bringen Sie zusammen mit den relevanten Akteuren und lassen Sie so teilhaben an unserem innerstädtischen Netzwerk.

Global Player, Start-Ups, Hochschulen oder städtische Betriebe und Verwaltung – in Nürnberg arbeiten wir alle Hand in Hand. Mit Selbstverständlichkeit und Leichtigkeit schaffen wir so die perfekte Infrastruktur für Ihre Veranstaltung. Ganz unaufgeregt, gewohnt professionell und partnerschaftlich und natürlich mit Ihrem Erfolg als unser Ziel.

MEETeinander in Nürnberg ist unser Qualitätsversprechen an Sie!

Erwarten Sie gerne mehr! Bis bald in

9 11 86 06 - 87

MSC CRUISES: INTERNATIONAL FLAIR AND EUROPEAN AMBIANCE

Whether you're seeking exclusive seclusion or a family holiday, MSC Cruises offers the perfect travel experience to make each trip unforgettable.

The family-owned business knows how to create the best holidays at sea, with special family offers, designated kids’ areas, entertainment and childcare options so that all generations can enjoy the trip to their heart’s content.

For those looking for an exclusive ambience, the MSC Yacht Club will provide exactly that.

The ship-in-a-ship concept offers a panorama lounge, restaurant, Butler service and comfortable suites in a designated section conveniently located at the ship’s bow.

The MSC Aponte founder family look back on more than 300 years of history and experience within the sea travel sector. MSC Cruises was founded in 1970 and has since developed into the third-largest and fastest-growing cruise line worldwide. The global player has 30,000 employees and offers cruises around the globe. The company

forms part of the MSC Group with headquarters in Geneva.

MSC Cruises caters to those who appreciate an international atmosphere and enjoy exploring multiple new destinations on a single trip, all while only needing to unpack their suitcase once. They value the mix of culinary delights, entertainment and wellness, complemented by a high number of interesting options for excursions. At MSC Cruises, the choice of multiple embarkation and disembarkation ports is unique.

NEW ROUTES – VALUED LUXURY

The new flagship of the fleet, the MSC Euribia, offers exciting 7-night summer cruises to the fjords of Norway, for this year and the next, starting in Kiel. The winter tour starting in the Hamburg port meanwhile highlights destinations such as Paris, London or Rotterdam. For those who prefer warmer shores, the route towards the Canary Islands is the best option: Between November 2024 and March 2025, the MSC Opera will depart from Santa Cruz de Tenerife and call at Las Palmas in Gran Canaria, Puerto del Rosario in Fuerteventura, Funchal in Madeira, Santa Cruz de la Palma in La Palma and Arrecife in Lanzarote before returning to Santa Cruz de Tenerife in Tenerife.

Next year’s definitive highlight for the company will be the launch of the ‘MSC World America’. Specially constructed for the North American market, the ship will also travel to the firm’s exclusive, private Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve island in the Bahamas.

www.msccruises.com

Gran Canaria.

MSC CRUISES: INTERNATIONALES FLAIR UND EUROPÄISCHES AMBIENTE

Ob exklusiver Rückzug oder Familienreise, MSC Cruises bietet für jeden das richtige Format für einen unvergesslichen Urlaub auf See.

Als Kreuzfahrtunternehmen in Familienbesitz kennt MS Cruises die richtigen Zutaten für einen gelungenen Trip: Zahlreiche Familien- und Unterhaltungsangebote sowie spezielle Kinderbereiche mit Betreuung sorgen dafür, dass alle Beteiligten den Urlaub generationsübergreifend und in vollen Zügen genießen können.

Für jene Gäste, die exklusives Ambiente bevorzugen, bietet der MSC Yacht Club den richtigen Rahmen: In einem eigenständigen Bereich in bester Lage am Schiffsbug untergebracht, offeriert das Schiff-im-Schiff-Konzept viele Extras wie etwa die Panorama-Lounge, ein eigenes Restaurant, einen Butler-Service und komfortable Suiten.

Die MSC-Gründerfamilie Aponte blickt auf mehr als 300 Jahre an Geschichte und Erfahrung in der Seefahrt zurück und gründete MSC

Cruises im Jahr 1970. Seitdem hat sich die Firma weltweit zum drittgrößten Kreuzfahrtanbieter entwickelt und bildet mit 30.000 Angestellten und Routen rund um den Globus das global schnellst-wachsende Unternehmen in seinem Sektor. MSC Cruises ist als Teil der MSC Group mit seinem Hauptquartier im schweizerischen Genf ansässig.

Das vielfältige Angebot an MSC-Kreuzfahrten spricht besonders Gäste an, die eine internationale Atmosphäre in Verbindung mit vielen aufregenden Zielen suchen, ohne den Koffer mehr als einmal auspacken zu müssen. Sie genießen kulinarische Erlebnisse, Wellness und On-Board Unterhaltung ebenso wie die hohe Anzahl an inspirierenden Ausflugsmöglichkeiten. Zudem wissen MSC- Passagiere die einzigartige Auswahl an besonders vielen Ein- und Ausschiffungshäfen zu schätzen.

NEUE ROUTEN – BEWÄHRTER LUXUS

Als neues Flaggschiff bietet die MSC Euribia aufregende 7-Nächte-Touren in die Fjorde Norwegens vom Starthafen Kiel. Wintertouren von Hamburg aus beleuchten europäische Metropolen wie Paris, London oder Rotterdam. Für jene Gäste, die wärmere Gefilde bevorzugen, gibt es eine faszinierende Route zu den Kana-

rischen Inseln: Zwischen November 2024 und März 2025 wird die MSC Opera in Santa Cruz de Tenerife starten und Las Palmas in Gran Canaria, Puerto del Rosario in Fuerteventura, Funchal in Madeira, Santa Cruz de la Palma in La Palma and Arrecife in Lanzarote anlaufen, bevor sie nach Santa Cruz de Tenerife in Teneriffa zurückkehrt.

Ein definitives Highlight im nächsten Jahr wird die Schiffstaufe der ‘MSC World America’: Speziell für den Nordamerikanischen Markt konzipiert, wird dieses Schiff in Zukunft unter anderem die exklusive, firmeneigene Privatinsel Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve auf den Bahamas ansteuern.

www.msccruises.de

MSC Yacht Club, MSC World Europa.

MSC World America.

Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve.

MSC Euribia.

SPECIAL THEME: CITY GUIDE – FOCUS ON ZURICH 2024

The Swiss city that has it all

While obviously impressing visitors via a medieval old town with plenty of sights, charming streets and shops, Zurich is also a must-visit for art and culture fans, as well as nature enthusiasts. Unsurprisingly, Zurich is also a city that is effortlessly on-trend – so there really is something for everyone to explore. In the following special theme, we showcase some of the best places to visit.

TEXT: NANE STEINHOFF

Photo: © swiss-image.ch

Shopping in Zurich. Photo: © swiss-image.ch/Giglio Pasqua

If you have been to Zurich before, you know how enchanting this city really is. If you have not been, 2024 might be the year you should plan a visit. As Switzerland’s largest city and a global centre for banking and finance, it is easy to forget that it can also be a delightful place for tourists, too. With a population of around 400,000, Zurich lies at the north end of Lake Zurich in northern Switzerland. It is a relatively small city, but nonetheless has a lot on offer.

For example, the picturesque lanes of the old town reflect the city’s pre-medieval history. Taking a stroll through the charming lanes

while gazing at the many cute shops and impressive medieval and Renaissance architecture is an experience in itself. Top attractions like the Bahnhofstrasse, St Peter’s Church or Lake Zurich should not be left out either, of course. Or why not head to the Limmatquai, a waterfront promenade which follows the river towards the 17th-century town hall? Luckily, Zurich is perfectly laid out for sightseeing on foot.

Culture fans can go to a variety of different museums and exhibitions, and nature fans should head to the Dolderbahn railway, which brings them to the hilly Zurichberg district. From here, visitors can enjoy breathtaking views across Lake Zurich, the city and the mountains in the background.

After an eventful day out sightseeing and exploring, a variety of innovative and top-class restaurants and eateries of every kind are waiting for guests. And, of course, a diverse range of hotels and guesthouses for every budget rounds off Zurich’s enticing offering.

Zurich really does have it all. So what are you waiting for?

If you plan a trip to Zurich in 2024, be sure to read the following special theme where we have handpicked some of 2024’s city’s highlights, which are all well worth a visit.

Street Food Festival, Zurich. Photo: © swiss-image.ch/Andre Meier

Photo: © swiss-image.ch/Andre Meier

Rietberg Museum, Zurich. Photo: (C) swiss-image.ch/Andre Meier

STYLISH AND

SOPHISTICATED:

SCHLOSSBERG'S LUXURIOUS WORLD OF WELL-BEING

Luxurious bed linen, fluffy towels, sensual room fragrancesthat's Schlossberg!

The first choice for relaxation in style is Schlossberg home accessories.

Schlossberg designs are created and hand-drawn in the company’s own design studio. The products that emerge from this design process are truly special, as Head of Design Susanne Krebs explains: “We turn everyday moments into unique, personalised moments of well-being!"

Our textiles are not off the peg, but are developed especially for us in close collaboration with our partners. This means that Schlossberg not only stands for special design, but also for exceptionally high quality. Every detail is important and we attach great importance to the durability of our products.”

Creations such as Andrin from the upcoming autumn/winter collection underline Schlossberg's claim to uniqueness. “Andrin,” says Susanne Krebs, “combines contemporary flair with tradition. Andrin is an ode to naturalness and evokes memories of an idyllic picnic in the mountains. Andrin brings the magic of a mountain hut into your own home!”

The Zurich flagship store and the boutiques in Switzerland and Germany are the perfect opportunity to experience the quality of Schlossberg's world of well-being first-hand.

One thing is certain: Once you've experienced Schlossberg, you'll never look back.

www.myschlossberg.com/en

Schlossberg means high-level craftsmanship.

STILVOLL UND HOCHWERTIG: SCHLOSSBERGS EDLE WOHLFÜHLWELT

Wie schön, wenn man sich zu Hause stilvoll entspannen kann. Die Wohnaccessoires von Schlossberg sind dafür die erste Wahl.

Luxuriöse Bettwäsche, kuschelige Handtücher, sinnliche Raumdüftedas ist Schlossberg!

Schlossberg Designs werden im eigenen Atelier entworfen und von Hand gezeichnet. Die Produkte, die so entstehen, sind Garanten für das Besondere, wie Head of Design Susanne Krebs erklärt: „Wir machen aus Alltagsmomenten einzigartige, individuelle Wohlfühlmomente!“

Unsere Textilien kommen nicht von der Stange, sondern werden in enger Zusammenarbeit mit unseren Partnern eigens für uns entwickelt. So steht Schlossberg nicht nur für besonderes Design, sondern auch für außergewöhnlich hohe Qualität. Für jedes Detail haben wir uns bewusst entschieden, auf die Langlebigkeit unserer Produkte legen wir besonders großen Wert.”

Kreationen wie Andrin aus der kommenden Herbst-/Winterkollektion unterstreichen Schlossbergs Anspruch auf das Besondere. „Andrin”, so Susanne Krebs, „verbindet zeitgenössisches Flair mit Tradition. Andrin ist eine Ode

an die Natürlichkeit und weckt Erinnerungen an ein idyllisches Picknick in den Bergen. Andrin bringt Hüttenzauber in die eigenen vier Wände!”

Der Zürcher Flagshipstore und die Boutiquen in der Schweiz und in Deutschland bieten die beste Gelegenheit, die Qualität von Schlossbergs Wohlfühlwelt hautnah zu erleben.

Denn: Wer Schlossberg einmal erlebt hat, bleibt dabei.

Für DE und AT: www.myschlossberg.com/de Für CH: www.schlossberg.ch

The series Andrin with its characteristic gingham pattern.

Bed linen Montagna with plaid Milo in Burgundy.

Susanne Krebs, Head of Design, in Schlossberg’s design studio.

SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY MEETS

CULINARY EXCELLENCE

Restaurant Krone in Altstetten blends Swiss tradition with innovative international influences in a historic setting. Guests can indulge in exquisite dishes while supporting an important social initiative.

Situated in the heart of Altstetten, in a 200-yearold doctor’s house, Restaurant Krone boasts a historic setting complete with traditional tiled stoves and creaky wooden floors. The building had been extensively renovated before it was taken over by the Arbeitskette Foundation in 2012. It provides employment and training opportunities for people with mental and physical disabilities. The Krone is one of seven establishments run by the foundation, showing how social integration and gastronomy can be successfully combined. “Our guests enjoy not only top-quality food but also support a good cause,” says Bettina Westenfelder, the Managing Director at Arbeitskette.

Classic dishes like Zürcher Geschnetzeltes with Rösti are a must-try for lovers of Swiss

cuisine. Served in copper pans, this dish is a highlight for any foodie. The restaurant regularly ranks first on Tripadvisor and is annually recognised for its exceptional service, attracting both locals and tourists.

The idyllic garden is especially popular during the warmer months. Thanks to a newly

equipped outdoor kitchen featuring a Green Egg Grill, guests can watch the chefs prepare fantastic dishes open-air. “Our garden, with its cosy lounge and fire ring, invites guests to linger and evokes true holiday vibes,” Westenfelder explains.

In summer, Restaurant Krone serves refreshing and refined dishes like cold cucumber soup, enhanced with smoked celery mousse, dill and soy yoghurt, or Swiss beef tartare accompanied by homemade nettle-twirl bread. A special highlight is the grilled watermelon from the big Green Egg BBQ, paired with cream cheese, tomato marmalade, buckwheat crunch and tarragon-lime sorbet.

Unique, homely and inviting: Restaurant Krone shows how it’s done.

www.krone-altstetten.ch

SOZIALE VERANTWORTUNG TRIFFT AUF KULINARISCHE EXZELLENZ

Das Restaurant Krone in Altstetten verbindet Schweizer Tradition mit innovativen internationalen Einflüssen in historischem Ambiente. Gäste genießen exquisite Gerichte und unterstützen dabei eine wichtige soziale Initiative.

Im Herzen von Altstetten, in einem 200 Jahre alten Doktorhaus, befindet sich das Restaurant Krone. Das historische Gebäude mit traditionellen Kachelöfen und knarrenden RiemenparkettBöden wurde aufwendig renoviert und 2012 von der Stiftung Arbeitskette übernommen. Sie bietet Menschen mit psychischen und physischen Beeinträchtigungen Arbeits- und Ausbildungsplätze. Das Restaurant ist einer von sieben Betrieben der Stiftung und zeigt eindrucksvoll, wie soziale Integration und professionelle Gastronomie erfolgreich verbunden werden können. „Unsere Gäste genießen nicht nur erstklassige Speisen, sondern unterstützen gleichzeitig eine gute Sache“, sagt Bettina Westenfelder, Geschäftsführerin der Stiftung.

Das Zürcher Geschnetzeltes mit Rösti ist ein Muss für Liebhaber der Schweizer Küche.

Serviert in Kupferpfännchen, ist es ein Highlight, das jeden Gourmet begeistert. Regelmäßig belegt die Krone Platz 1 bei Tripadvisor und wird jährlich für ihren außergewöhnlichen Service ausgezeichnet, was sowohl Einheimische als auch Touristen anzieht.

Bei warmem Wetter ist der idyllische Garten besonders beliebt. Dank der neu ausgestatteten Außenküche mit einem Green Egg Grill kann man den Köchen bei der Zubereitung fantastischer Gerichte unter freiem Himmel zusehen. „Unser Garten mit gemütlicher Lounge und Feuerring lädt zum Verweilen ein und weckt wahre Feriengefühle“, fügt Westenfelder hinzu.

Im Sommer serviert Restaurant Krone erfrischende und raffinierte Gerichte wie die Gurkenkaltschale, verfeinert mit geräuchertem

Sellerie-Mousse, Dill und Soja-Joghurt, oder Tatar vom Schweizer Rind, begleitet von hausgemachtem Brennnessel-Zwirbel-Brot. Ein besonderes Highlight ist die gegrillte Wassermelone vom Big Green Egg, kombiniert mit Frischkäse, Tomatenmarmelade, Buchweizenkrokant und Estragon-Limetten-Sorbet.

Einzigartig, heimelig und gemütlichRestaurant Krone zeigt wie’s geht.

www.krone-altstetten.ch

ZURICH'S MOST ROMANTIC COFFEE HOUSE: CAFÉ & CONDITOREI 1842

Fancy a piece of Zurich coffee culture? The legendary Café & Conditorei 1842 combines grand history with sweet delights.

Café & Conditorei 1842 in Zurich's Niederdorf is more than just a café - it is a place full of tradition and charm. Founded in 1842 as ‘Eberles Süsskramladen’, this listed gem has become an integral part of Zurich's coffee culture.

Since 2009, it has been run by the Arbeitskette Foundation and, as an integration business, offers people with mental or physical disabilities the opportunity to complete vocational training and gain valuable experience. "Today, the Stiftung Arbeitskette not only continues the tradition of the bakery and café, but also preserves the listed shop and the unique decorations that give the rooms their charm. Our guiding principle 'Passion for Gastronomy and Integration' is also what drives us at Café & Conditorei 1842!" says Bettina Westenfelder, Managing Director of Stiftung Arbeitskette.

Visitors to the café can expect an exquisite selection of homemade cakes and patisseries, which are freshly prepared every day. "Our guests love the coffee and tea specialities, the legendary Schoggi Melange and the warm apple strudel," says Helmut Ofner, Operations Manager of Café

& Conditorei 1842. The extensive breakfast and lunch menu also leaves nothing to be desired, from Bircher muesli and egg dishes to delicious croissants and sandwiches. The neo-baroque shop dating back to 1890 sells seasonally decorated chocolate products and sweet souvenirs.

The atmosphere of the café is uniquely nostalgic. The neo-baroque interior, plush furniture and original decorations from the 19th century make you feel like you've been transported back in time. Whether in the stylish ‘Salon Rouge’, the ‘Colonial’, the ‘Züri Stube’, the cosy inner courtyard or on the garden terrace - every room invites you to linger and enjoy. No wonder the café is often referred to as ‘Zurich's most romantic coffee house’. Open 364 days a year, the café invites you to immerse yourself in the sweet world of confectionery, and savour lovingly crafted delicacies while contributing to social integration.

www.cafe1842.ch

ZÜRICHS CHARMANTESTES KAFFEEHAUS: CAFÉ & CONDITOREI 1842

Lust auf ein Stück Zürcher Kaffeekultur? Das legendäre Café & Conditorei 1842 verbindet Geschichte mit Genuss.

Das Café & Conditorei 1842 im Zürcher Niederdorf ist mehr als nur ein Café – es ist ein Ort voller Tradition und Charme. Gegründet im Jahr 1842 als „Eberles Süsskramladen“ hat sich dieses denkmal-geschützte Juwel zu einem festen Bestandteil der Zürcher Kaffeekultur entwickelt.

Seit 2019 wird es von der Stiftung Arbeitskette geführt und bietet als Integrationsbetrieb Menschen mit psychischen oder physischen Beeinträchtigungen die Möglichkeit eine Berufsausbildung zu absolvieren und wertvolle Erfahrungen zu sammeln. „Die Stiftung Arbeitskette führt heute nicht nur die Tradition der Backstube und des Cafés weiter, sondern erhält auch den denkmalgeschützten

Laden und die einzigartigen Dekorationen, die den Charme der Räume ausmachen. Unser Leitsatz ‚Leidenschaft für Gastronomie und Integration‘ ist auch im Café & Conditorei 1842 unser Antrieb!“ sagt Bettina Westenfelder, Geschäftsführerin der Stiftung Arbeitskette.

Besucher des Cafés erwartet eine exquisite Auswahl an hausgemachten Törtchen und Patisserien, die täglich frisch zubereitet werden. „Unsere Gäste lieben die Kaffee- und Teespezialitäten, die legendäre Schoggi Melange und den warmen Apfelstrudel,“ sagt Helmut Ofner, Betriebsleiter des Café & Conditorei 1842. Auch das reichhaltige Frühstücks- und Lunchangebot lässt keine Wünsche offen, von Bircher Müesli über Eierspeisen bis hin zu köstlichen Croissants und Sandwiches. Im neobarocken Verkaufsladen aus dem Jahr 1890 werden zudem saisonal dekorierte Schokoladenprodukte und süße Mitbringsel angeboten.

Die Atmosphäre des Cafés ist einzigartig nostalgisch. Mit dem neobarocken Interieur, plüschigen Möbeln und originalen Dekorationen aus dem 19. Jahrhundert fühlt man sich in eine andere Zeit versetzt. Ob im stilvollen ‚Salon Rouge‘, dem ‚Colonial‘, der ‚Züri Stube‘, dem gemütlichen Innenhof oder auf der Gartenterrasse – jeder Raum lädt zum Verweilen

und Genießen ein. Kein Wunder, dass das Café oft als ‚Zürichs romantischstes Kaffeehaus‘ bezeichnet wird. Geöffnet an 364 Tagen im Jahr, lädt das Café dazu ein, in die süße Welt der Konditorei einzutauchen, liebevoll hergestellte Köstlichkeiten zu genießen und so auch ein Beitrag zur sozialen Integration zu leisten.

www.cafe1842.ch

ELMIRA - TRANSPARENT AWARD-WINNING CUISINE

Delicious, sustainable and surprising - gourmet restaurant elmira offers a unique concept.

Located in one of Zurich's trendiest neighbourhoods beneath a listed grain silo, elmira offers its guests an exceptional gourmet experience.

The restaurant won over the critical palates of the Michelin Guide testers in its very first year of operation: the ‘high-quality cuisine’ was awarded a star for culinary excellence, while the restaurant’s concept was honoured with a green Michelin star for outstanding sustainability.

You won't find classic luxury food such as caviar, lobster or langoustine at elmira. Head chef Vilson Krasnic focuses on creative, plantbased cuisine using seasonal and regional ingredients, while meat and fish are served with consideration. elmira offers a carefully selected range of alcoholic drinks and homemade non-alcoholic creations to complement the delicious dishes. A treat for gourmets!

At elmira, guests choose a menu, including drinks, in advance and pay before their visit. A new concept that guarantees guests a relaxed evening as if they were at a friend's place. At elmira, the focus is on hospitality, enjoyment and pleasure, not the bill.

In the relaxed atmosphere of the intimate gourmet restaurant, the chefs serve themselves, creating an enjoyable dialogue between guests and chefs. elmira - always an inspiring experience!

www.elmira.zuerich

ELMIRATRANSPARENTE STERNEKÜCHE

Lecker, nachhaltig und überraschend - das Konzept des Gourmetrestaurants elmira ist einzigartig.

Unter einem denkmalgeschützten Getreidesilo in einem der angesagtesten Quartiere Zürichs bietet das elmira seinen Gästen ein außergewöhnliches Gourmeterlebnis.

Das Restaurant überzeugte bereits im ersten Jahr seines Bestehens die kritischen Gaumen der Tester des Guide Michelin: Die ‚Küche voller Finesse’ wurde mit einem Stern für die Kulinarik, das Konzept außerdem mit einem grünen Michelinstern für besondere Nachhaltigkeit ausgezeichnet.

Klassische Luxusprodukte wie Kaviar, Hummer oder Languste sucht man im elmira vergebens. Küchenchef Vilson Krasnic setzt auf eine kreative, gemüsebetonte Küche aus saisonalen und regionalen Zutaten, Fleisch und Fisch werden mit Bedacht serviert. Perfekt abgestimmt auf die leckeren Gerichte bietet das elmira eine sorgfältig zusammengestellte Auswahl an alkoholischen Getränken und hausgemachten, alkoholfreien Eigenkreationen an. So geht ein Angebot für Gourmets, das überzeugt!

Im elmira entscheiden sich die Gäste vorab für ein Menü inklusive Getränke und bezahlen vor dem Essen. Ein neuartiges Konzept, das garantiert, dass Gäste einen entspannten Abend wie bei Freunden erleben. Im elmira stehen Herzlichkeit, Genuss und Freude im Vordergrund, nicht die Rechnung.

In der entspannten Atmosphäre des gemütlichen Gourmetrestaurants servieren die Köche übrigens selbst, sodass ein bereichernder Dialog zwischen Gästen und Köchen entsteht. Immer wieder ein inspirierendes Erlebnis.

www.elmira.zuerich

AUF DEN SPUREN VON DESIGN UND KREATIVITÄT - MIT DER ‚MADE IN ZURICH‘ FÜHRUNG

Mit der spannenden ‚Made in Zurich‘ Führung taucht man nicht nur in das neue Quartier hinter dem Hauptbahnhof Zürich ein, sondern erlebt auch die faszinierende Welt des Zürcher Designs und der lokalen Produktion hautnah. Wer also der Meinung ist Stadtführungen seien langweilig, sollte sich in Zürich mit dieser Führung unbedingt vom Gegenteil überzeugen lassen.

Bei der einzigartigen ‚Made in Zurich‘ Führung, angeboten von Zürich Tourismus, erfährt man nicht nur viel über das kreative Schaffen in der Schweizer Metropole, sondern trifft teils auch einige Macher:innen persönlich und darf sogar ein paar Kostproben genießen.

Die Tour beginnt jeden Samstag um 11:30 Uhr in der großen Halle des Hauptbahnhofs der Limmatstadt, einem Hotspot, den täglich rund 450.000 Menschen durchqueren. Hier erfährt man interessante Geschichten über den Ort und seine beeindruckende Architektur, bevor es weiter geht.

Danach stehen lokalen Erfolgsgeschichten auf dem Programm. Es ist allerdings keine ‚Shopping‘-Tour, auch wenn man in diverse

feine Läden einkehrt. Vielmehr geht es darum ein Gespür für den innovativen Geist der früheren und vor allem der heutigen Zürcherinnen und Zürcher zu vermitteln.

Ein Beispiel ist das Geschäft Soeder der in Zürich-wohnenden Schweden Hanna und Johan Olzon. Ihre nachhaltigen Seifen und Pflegeprodukte sind nicht nur biologisch abbaubar, sondern auch ein Genuss für die Sinne und beinhalten unter anderem Honig aus dem Zürcher Oberland.

In der Zuriga-Filiale erlebt man hingegen exklusiven Kaffeegenuss aus lokal gefertigten Espressomaschinen, denn man lernt vor Ort, dass in der Schweiz nicht das Auto Prestigesache ist, sondern welche Kaffeemaschine zuhause steht.

Der Spaziergang führt entlang der Zollstraße, über den Negrellisteg, einer Brücke über das Gleisfeld, die an Sommerabenden zur längsten Frischluftbar der Stadt wird, und endet nach weiteren spannenden Zwischenstopps in der Europaallee.

Die Führung bietet die perfekte Gelegenheit, Zürichs neues Quartier mit Großstadtfeeling kennenzulernen und sich von der kreativen Energie der Stadt verzaubern zu lassen. Also los!

Tourist Information: +41 44 215 40 00 www.zuerich.com/madeinzurich

PARIS ON THE NEISSE RIVER

The reputation of Görlitz's Old Town has long extended beyond the borders of Germany and Europe - even Hollywood has succumbed to its magic. Our writer Wibke Carter travelled to Saxony for a closer look.

You don't come to Görlitz by chance. You have to have good reasons to take the long train journey from Berlin through Upper Lusatia. The local trains, with a transfer in Cottbus, need around three hours from Germany’s capital to its easternmost city. But the peripheral location and the fact that the sun rises a little earlier here are not enough reasons for most travellers to visit. They come here for the architecture.

After all, Görlitz is praised as an urban masterpiece. And rightly so: more than 4,000 architectural monuments await the visitors. While other places struggle to imitate authenticity with more or less successful replicas, Görlitz gives an idea of what the whole country once looked like.

GLITZ AND GLAMOUR

You can stroll from one style period to another, to finely restored late Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque houses in the old town and through spacious Art Nouveau and Wilhelminian style districts that surround the historic centre. There is so much history and grandeur that the leading German newspaper “Die Welt” once called Görlitz “The Paris on the Neisse River”.

Indeed, the small provincial town of about 57,000 inhabitants does not need to shy away from the comparison with the capital of France: Richly decorated portals and façades, beautiful inner courtyards and arcades bear witness to the fact that Görlitz was one of the richest cities in Germany for most of its history. “In the Middle Ages, it was located at the crossroads of two trade routes, and relied on the precious dye woad, cloth production and wagon building”, said guide Elke Schallwig. Thanks to its wealth and power, Görlitz became the urban center of Upper Lusatia, located in the part of Silesia that remained German after 1945.

YEARS OF NEGLECT

Today, when the sound of horse-drawn carriages echoes over the cobblestones, the streets look as dignified as they once did. The town on the Neisse River survived two world wars unscathed, but decades of neglect during the GDR era almost destroyed it. The workers' and peasants' state deliberately allowed the buildings of the middle classes to

The old post office.

fall into disrepair. Boreholes had already been prepared on the most dilapidated houses for the installation of explosive charges to blow up parts of the old town.

But then came the German reunification and with it the resurrection from the ruins. Most of the listed buildings were brilliantly renovated, in large part thanks to a donor who gave generously every year between 1995 and 2016. “However, there were two conditions attached to the ‘Old Town Million’ as the lo-

cals called it”, remembered Schallwig. “The donor had to remain anonymous and the money had to be used for the restoration of old buildings in the German part only”.

HOLLYWOOD CALLING

The variety of architectural styles on such a small scale became a drawcard for Hollywood directors who were attracted by the beauty of the original, preserved buildings. “Inglourious Basterds”, “The Reader” and “Around the World in 80 Days”, were filmed

here, earning the city the nickname “Görliwood”. However, it also doubled as other cities: Venice, New York, Frankfurt and Strasbourg - Görlitz, the master of illusion. A starring role went to the Art Nouveau “Kaufhaus“ that was built in 1913 in the heart of the town. Considered the most beautiful department store in Germany – a “Lafayette” in East Saxony if we must bring up Paris once more -, it doubled as the “Grand Hotel Budapest” in the 2014 film by Wes Anderson.

Woman's head in the Flüsterbogen (whispering arch).

Görlitz Art Nouveau Kaufhaus

Görlitz new town hall

Görlitz old town hall

POLISH NEIGHBOURS

When the Oder-Neisse line was declared Poland's western border in 1945, Görlitz became a divided city. The smaller part, located on the eastern side of the Neisse, became the independent Polish town of Zgorzelec. Only after the border controls between Poland and Germany ended in December 2007 could Görlitz and Zgorzelec become one

city again slowly - now in two countries. The fact that a national border is crossed while strolling across the Old Town Bridge is only noticeable by the poles in the respective national colours which rise up on both sides of the riverbank.

Many are proud of their city. Not necessarily of its enormous show value, but of what

lives on in Görlitz, in its street names, in the vocabulary and tone of the language, this East Lusatian dialect in which people cursed, sang, whispered, preached, spoke justice and confessed love, and, of course, in its buildings in which generations have left their memories behind.

www.goerlitz.de

View across the Neisse River from Poland

Elke Schallwig

Colourful houses along the Untermarkt

Hamburg, Elbphilharmonie.

Photo: Jonas Tebbe on Unsplash

TOP GERMAN CITIES – 3 GETAWAY AND INVESTMENT GEMS

Many German destinations this year were gilded by hosting a football game during the European Championships – among which Berlin, Hamburg and Munich remain the ‘top three’ as both travelling and investment magnets.

TEXT: CORNELIA BRELOWSKI

TOP GERMAN CITIES: BERLIN, CITY OF DREAMS AND EXTREMES

Ever since its heydays in the Golden Twenties, Berlin has never stopped to attract. The city’s kaleidoscope of history and change is doubtlessly unparalleled and has never lost its pull for the international crowd.

Frequent travellers may still remember the omnipresent airport billboards with the slogan “Time to Invest in Berlin and Brandenburg” during the ‘noughties’, aka the first decade of the millennium. Berlin had just advanced to capital status again in 1999, a mere decade after the wall came down. What happened on both sides of the crumbling city wall however may have felt a tad different from the inside than to the outside spectator, though illuminated by the suddenly bright international spotlight:

After the first general confusion, the city started morphing from a hitherto highly sponsored loophole for nonconformists – nurturing a creative and at times brilliant crop of artists and a subculture from which the city draws until today – to a glitzy, international investment pad. The citizens, former political islanders on both sides who had been proud of a certain “holding-the-fort”-mentality, suddenly faced the rickety yet inspiring change of growing back into a thriving, international metropolis. Meanwhile, the world came rushing into party.

Apart from other growing pains, Berliners soon faced a steep rise in rent and living costs, which has not stopped since and was recently further fueled (if you will excuse the term) by the energy crisis. Nonetheless, the city’s magnetism for both tourists and investors, having undergone its own crisis during the pandemic, is now back on (full) track. ‘Is it still wise to invest in Berlin?’ an expatriate online platform recently asked. The broad consensus among both inside and outside investors is undeniably positive.

I remember a recent conversation with a taxi driver of the second or third Turkish immigrant generation who was driving me to the airport, which went from “why I usually

take the bicycle around the city” (me) all the way to “my mother has a mind for business and recently advised me to invest in a small apartment” (him). Please note that the drive to BER takes much longer than to any of the former Berlin airports, which, such was the decision-makers’ mantra, “did not serve the city and its newly acquired metropolitan character sufficiently anymore”. Be that as it may and judged much differently from the perspective of longtime residents, it became clear from that taxi conversation how it still makes much sense to consider Berlin and by extension Brandenburg for investments on all levels. Let’s just say, Elon Musk certainly took the message on those airport billboards to heart.

Here are some of the facts that make Berlin an international magnet:

- Since the reunification in 1990, Berlin has regrown into a global centre of culture, education, media, tourism, politics and science. It looks back on the most varied and colourful recent history among European cities.

– The city’s universities are among the best worldwide as well as being marked by low tuition fees, and the city’s diverse, inspiring and open-minded culture is a magnet for international students.

- Berlin’s visual and performing art scene is unparalleled, both in terms of the larger institutions and those nurturing emerging artists. Berlin contains three UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

- Berlin means business: With its lively startup and entrepreneur scene, the capital also hosts a large number of multinational companies, including several international tech giants. There have been major developments for local start-ups that quickly advanced to big players, such as the e-commerce fashion giant Zalando.

TOP GERMAN CITIES: HAMBURG, PORTAL TO THE WORLD

The Northern pearl on the Elbe river features the third-busiest port in Europe and is often dubbed “portal to the world”.

Truly built on water, Hamburg features the largest number of bridges in any European city. Situated by the Elbe river, it is also structured by the Alster, the Bille, Wandse and Este as well a system of numerous canals. There is also often water from the above – with 195 rainy days per year, Hamburg weather equals the proverbial London weather in spirit, and the umbrella is the number one accessory. Hamburg is a tourism hub and has nurtured cultural phenomena starting with no other

than The Beatles, to whom the Hamburg harbour scene served as a nurturing ground in their formative years while taking their first musical steps in front of a crude mix of sailors, demimonde characters and art students. As opposed to Berlin where the “poor but sexy” label sticks like glue even if not relevant any more, Hamburg has always been a city of wealth. As a former member of the original Hanseatic League, a medieval commercial and defensive network of merchant guilds and Northern market towns, Hamburg looks back on a strong tradition in the finance sector. It even hosts Germany’s oldest stock

Hamburg Panorama. Photo: Julia Solonina on Unsplash

Berlin Panorama with Brandenburg Gate. Photo: Adam Vradenburg on Unsplash

Berlin Museumsinsel, UNESCO world heritage site. Photo by Julia Solonina on Unsplash

exchange, which would make Frankfurt its nouveau riche offspring.

The Hamburger per se (as in the citizen, not the dish), is defined by a reliable mix of Northern stoicism, dry humour and open-mindedness. The world famous beef bun meanwhile was presumably developed around 1900 in the US – by German immigrants from Hamburg. Regarding food, the city is still a number one access point for all types of German fish cuisine, with one exception: The unifying

dish of all North Sea nations, the Labskaus (Lobscouse in Liverpool) probably was one of the reasons the Beatles felt so much at home in Hamburg, apart from the wet weather. The potato mush contains corned beef and salted meat – satiating, non-perishable foods for long sea journeys.

As for main business sectors, Hamburg thrives in steel, aluminium and copper production, as well as shipbuilding and aerospace, including global market leader Airbus.

TOP GERMAN CITIES: MUNICH, LIBERAL HEART OF THE SOUTH

Apart from the annual Oktoberfest of beer and pork fame, Munich also features incredible natural surroundings and functions as a German cultural hub due to its impressive museum scape.

No matter if technology and science (Deutsches Museum), classic modern (Pinakothek der Moderne, Lehnbachhaus) or contemporary art (Museum Brandhorst and Kunsthalle), Munich offers an immense treasure trove of inspiring exhibitions all year round. Situated about 160 km from the Austrian border, the charming city also has the immense panorama of the Alps right at its backdoor, a mecca for mountain sports lovers and Heidi-enthusiasts (referring to the bright, philosophical girl in the famous children’s novel by Johanna Spyri).

As for the business part, Munich features a wide array of industries, such as automotive, IT, biotech, engineering, electronics and renewable energy. Multinational companies include BWM, Siemens and Allianz.

And last but not least, Munich of course is home to Bayern Munich, the most successful club in German football history which nowadays proudly includes the current captain of the English national team, Harry Kane. And what does Kane say he likes most about living in Munich? The vicinity to the mountains – and the pretzel buns.

Munich, city hall. Photo: Natalie Gottsmann on Unsplash

Munich, the Alps are never far. Photo: Chris Kursikowski on Unsplash Munich, inner city. Photo: Yves Cedric Schulze on Unsplash

PASD ARCHITEKTEN: VISIONARIES OF WELL-BEING

pasd architekten projects link tradition with progress and are not only pleasing to the eye but also serve the users’ well-being.

“The most significant aspect of our work is the enormous range that we are able to cover through our long-standing experience”, explains architect and managing director Jürgen Wrede: “We never act one-sided, instead we strive to be versatile and sustainable and we always work within the context of a project.” This diverse approach allows pasd architekten to react flexibly to clients’ demands and develop multiple solutions.

Having formed in 1987 on a small scale, pasd architekten have since continuously grown and nowadays work with an international team across Germany; with offices in Berlin, Hagen, Hamburg and Cologne. Their creative solutions unite tradition with progress and sustainability, covering projects e. g. for federal, regional or municipal entities: “We usually acquire our projects through a tender process, in which the contract is awarded in a multi-stage procedure.

This allows us to show our competencies and experience.” The latest examples are Hamburg’s central company for commercial real estate Sprinkenhof GmbH, the BBR (Federal Office for Building and Regional Planning) in Berlin, and the Senckenberg-Leibniz Institution for Biodiversity in Frankfurt.

Over the coming years, pasd architekten will enter competitions to further enlarge their

portfolio. Using state-of-the-art technology such as Building Information Modeling (BIM) and AI is already on the agenda, as the architects strive to extract “more than just the common standards” from new technologies. Exciting new projects are already lining up, such as the refurbishment and technical revitalization of Hamburg’s finance authority building at Gänsemarkt (a 1926 modern classic building by Fritz Schumacher), as well as the new elephant running hall for the jungle palace at Hanover’s adventure zoo – an innovative structure with an exoskeleton dome construction and an air cushion roof made of extremely durable ETFE film.

The architect concludes: “As other offices currently report order backlogs, we win attractive large-sized projects and look at further enlarging our team. We do consider this a success of our work and at the same time appreciate all the new challenges we face on a daily basis.”

www.pasd.de

Winning design: Elefantenlaufhalle Zoo Hannover. Visualisation: © pasd architekten

Winning design: Elefantenlaufhalle Zoo Hannover. Visualisation: © pasd architekten

PASD ARCHITEKTEN: VISIONÄRE DES WOHLBEFINDENS

pasd architekten verknüpft Tradition mit Fortschritt und Nachhaltigkeit – mit Projekten, die nicht nur dem Auge, sondern primär auch dem Wohlbefinden der zukünftigen Nutzer dienen.

„Das Besondere an unserer Arbeit ist die enorme Bandbreite, die wir durch unsere jahrelange Erfahrung abdecken können,“ erklärt Architekt und Geschäftsführer Jürgen Wrede: „Wir sind nicht einseitig, sondern vielseitig, nachhaltig und arbeiten immer angemessen im Kontext des jeweiligen Projekts.“ Dieser Ansatz erlaubt es den Architekten, jeweils flexibel auf die Bedürfnisse ihrer Kunden zu reagieren und dabei eine Vielfalt von Lösungen zu entwickeln.

pasd architekten ist seit seinen Gründertagen 1987 organisch gewachsen und arbeitet heute mit einem internationalen Team deutschlandweit, mit Büros in Berlin, Hamburg, Hagen und Köln. Derzeit besteht die Kundenliste zu 90% aus öffentlichen Institutionen und Behörden auf kommunaler, regionaler sowie Bundesebene: „Unsere Projekte akquirieren wir in der Regel durch Bewerbungen in öffentlichen Vergabeverfahren, bei denen die Vergabe in einem mehrstufigen Verfahren erfolgt. Dieser strukturierte Prozess ermöglicht es uns, unsere Kompetenz und Erfahrung unter Beweis zu stellen.” Erfolgreiche, aktuelle Beispiele dafür sind etwa die zentrale gewerbliche Im-

mobiliengesellschaft ‚Sprinkenhof GmbH‘ in Hamburg, der BBR (Bundesamt für Bauwesen und Raumordnung) in Berlin, sowie die Frankfurter Senckenberg Gesellschaft für Naturforschung.

Für die nahe Zukunft plant pasd architekten vermehrt an Wettbewerben teilzunehmen, um das Firmenportfolio sowie das Team noch breiter aufzustellen. Neue Technologien wie BIM (Building Information Modeling) und KI stehen dabei im Fokus: „Wir möchten mehr als den Standard aus diesen Methoden herausholen,“ so Jürgen Wrede. Das Büro ist stolz auf bereits anstehende, aufregende Projekte, wie zum Beispiel die Revitalisierung und technische Modernisierung von Hamburgs Finanzbehörde am Gänsemarkt, einem Gebäude der klassischen Moderne, erbaut 1926 von Fritz Schumacher. Ein weiteres Highlight wird die neue Elefantenlaufhalle für den Erlebnis-Zoo Hannover: Thematisch an den Dschungelpalast angelehnt, verfügt diese über innovative bauliche Lösungen wie die Exoskelett-Kuppelkonstruktion mit einem Luftkissendach aus ETFE-Folie, einem hoch widerstandsfähigem, elastischen Kunststoff auf Fluor-Basis.

“Während dieses Jahr viele Büros von Auftragsrückgängen berichten, gewinnen wir attraktive und große Projekte und stellen wieder mehr Mitarbeiter ein“, fasst Jürgen Wrede zusammen, „Das führen wir auf unsere Erfahrungswerte zurück.“ Die damit verbundenen, täglichen Herausforderungen nehmen er und sein Team dafür gern in Kauf.

www.pasd.de

New laboratory building, Senckenberg Institute, Müncheberg, Interior. Visualization: © pasd architekten

New laboratory building, Senckenberg Institute, Müncheberg. Visualization: © pasd architekten

Finanzbehörde Gänsemarkt. Photo: © pasd architekten

ZUVERLÄSSIG RESILIENT MIT

RESILIENCE OPERATIONS

CENTER

Was passiert, wenn es passiert? Wenn Unternehmensprozesse gestört werden und nicht mehr funktionieren? Das Resilience Operations Center aus Nürnberg hilft.

„Was brauchen Unternehmen, um möglichst schnell und gezielt auf Störungen reagieren zu können?”, fragte sich Uwe Rühl. Als Verantwortlicher für Notrufleitstellen in Bayern und Schleswig-Holstein wusste er, wie wichtig es ist, auf Störungen im Betriebsablauf schnell und richtig reagieren zu können.

Für Unternehmen sind unterbrochene Abläufe einschneidend, im schlimmsten Fall existenzbedrohend. Rühl weiß: „Ein Großteil der Prozesse in einem Unternehmen läuft im Hintergrund ab bzw. beginnt schon lange, bevor ein Produkt oder Service ausgeliefert wird. Hier gilt es, Standards zu setzen und Prozesse zu entwickeln.”

Vor diesem Hintergrund hat es sich Rühls Resilience Operations Center zur Aufgabe gemacht, Unternehmen in ihrer Resilienz zu unterstützen. „Unternehmerische Resilienz”, so der Experte, „bedeutet für uns ein ständiges Ausbalancieren von Stabilität und Anpassungsfähigkeit. Unternehmen

müssen sich vor bestimmten Ereignissen wie beispielsweise Cyberangriffen schützen, sich aber gleichzeitig an die Bedingungen ihres Unternehmensumfelds anpassen. Das hat uns in jüngster Zeit vor allem die Corona-Pandemie mit all ihren Folgen deutlich aufgezeigt.”

Während sich viele Anbieter hauptsächlich auf das wichtige Thema Cybersecurity konzentrieren, geht Rühls Team einen Schritt weiter und behält alle Faktoren im Blick, die die Funktionsfähigkeit eines Unternehmens gefährden könnten. Der Bogen spannt sich von Qualität über Compliance bis hin zu Krisenmanagement. „Unsere Kunden”, weiß Rühl, „wünschen sich Sicherheit. Sie möchten, dass ihre Unternehmen, Prozesse und die jeweilige Infrastruktur resilient sind. Gleichzeitig sollen die Produkte und Dienstleistungen so stabil und anpassungsfähig sein, dass sie auch im Ernstfall ihre gewohnte Qualität nicht einbüßen.”

Um ein Unternehmen bestmöglich zu durchleuchten, nehmen sich Rühl und

sein Team ausreichend Zeit für ein intensives Onboarding. Anschließend erhält das Unternehmen eine genaue Lagebewertung sowie, bei Bedarf, Hinweise und Empfehlungen, wie die Organisation, Prozesse, Infrastruktur und Produkte oder Dienstleistungen resilient gestaltet werden können. „Darüber hinaus erstellen wir für unsere Kunden regelmäßig einen aktuellen Statusbericht, den unsere Resilience Manager ausführlich mit den Verantwortlichen im Unternehmen besprechen”, ergänzt Rühl, der seine Kunden auch bei internen Audits und Zertifizierungen unterstützt.

Mit dem Thema Resilience Condition packt das Resilience Operations Center neuerdings ein Thema an, das in dieser Form noch nicht angeboten wird. „Hierzu”, sagt Rühl, „haben wir das Organisational Resilience Management System entwickelt. Es hilft unseren Kunden, ihre eigene Resilienz zu steuern und gleichzeitig die Anforderungen internationaler und europäischer Normen zu erfüllen.”

www.resilienceoperations.center

SPECIAL THEME: FOCUS ON THE SOLAR ECONOMY

All about photovoltaics, solar thermal energy & solar power plants

Did you know that solar power creates cheaper, cleaner electricity, ultimately leading to unlimited supply, more spending power and energy independence? More and more people are turning to solar power to power their homes. In the following special theme, we take a look at key players in the industry to find out more about this exciting field.

TEXT: NANE STEINHOFF I PHOTOS: UNSPLASH

SUSTAINABLE ENERGY SOLUTIONS FOR CORPORATES FROM 6 CT - FROM THE OWN ROOF

Centroplan offers comprehensive green energy solutions, showing how they can be smoothly integrated into customers' business processes and infrastructure.

For companies seeking sustainable energy solutions, Centroplan stands out as a strong partner. Specialising in large-scale solar roofs, the company employs over 150 people across ten international locations. “Our systems allow you to produce your own electricity onsite from 6ct/kWh,” explains Niklas Reinartz, CEO of Centroplan. “No matter what happens around you, you can produce electricity for over 20 years at prices you secure today.”

Centroplan primarily caters to multinational corporations, enterprises with high energy demands, real estate investors and developers, as well as retail chains and retail parks. Customers from these sectors particularly benefit from the specially developed lightweight systems, which are also suitable for existing roofs with a load reserve of less than 15 kg/m2. Centroplan also ensures even greater safety: they are able to provide systems globally with FM approval. "We fulfil the requirements of almost all insurers worldwide," Reinartz adds.

One of the biggest challenges in integrating solar installations is embedding them into the existing building and infrastructure without jeopardising core operations. Centroplan therefore offers solutions from a single source that are seamlessly integrated and supported by local competence teams in Europe, the USA and Asia.

Centroplan supports its customers from the initial feasibility study through to the ongoing operation and offers everything from a single source - for your secure and reliable energy future.

www.centroplan.com

NACHHALTIGE ENERGIE FÜR UNTERNEHMEN AB 6 CT – VOM EIGENEN DACH

Centroplan bietet grüne Energielösungen aus einer Hand und zeigt, wie diese nahtlos in Geschäftsprozesse und die Infrastruktur der Kunden integriert werden können.

Unternehmen, die nach nachhaltigen Energielösungen suchen, finden in Centroplan einen starken Partner. Mit über 150 Mitarbeitern und zehn internationalen Standorten, hat sich Centroplan auf großflächige Solardächer spezialisiert. „Mit unseren Systemen produziert man eigenen Strom am Standort ab 6ct/kWh“, erklärt Niklas Reinartz, CEO der Centroplan. „Ganz egal, was um Sie herum passiert, Sie produzieren über 20 Jahre Strom zu Preisen, die Sie sich heute sichern.“

Centroplan richtet sich besonders an multinationale Unternehmen, Betriebe mit hohen Energiebedarfen, Real Estate Investoren und Entwickler sowie Handelsketten und Fachmarktzentren. Kunden aus diesen Bereichen profitieren besonders von den eigens entwickelten Leichtbausystemen, die auch für Bestandsdächer mit weniger als 15 kg/m2 Traglastreserve geeignet sind. Zudem sorgt Centroplan für noch mehr Sicherheit: Sie sind in der Lage, international Systeme mit FM Approval bereitzustellen. „Wir erfüllen die Anforderungen von fast allen Versicherern weltweit“, fügt Reinartz hinzu.

Eine der größten Herausforderungen bei der Integration von Solaranlagen ist die Einbindung in das bestehende Gebäude und die Infrastruktur, ohne das Kerngeschäft zu gefährden. Centroplan bietet deshalb Lösungen aus einer Hand, die nahtlos integriert werden und durch lokale Competence Teams in Europa, den USA und Asien unterstützt werden.

Centroplan begleitet seine Kunden von der ersten Machbarkeitsprüfung bis zum laufenden Betrieb und bietet alles aus einer Hand – für Ihre sichere und zuverlässige Energiezukunft.

APSYSTEMS: SOLAR ENERGY FOR EVERYONE

APsystems products range from smart, plug-in balcony solar systems via on-roof residential solutions ,to devices tailored to commercial solar.

In the course of the energy transition and its acceleration through fossil energy shortages due to the war in Ukraine, Germany has recently surpassed the number of 400,000 solar PV balcony power plants in use. They typically consist of 2 to 4 solar panels mounted outside a balcony, providing an excellent way for homeowners and renters to generate their electricity and reduce their dependence on grid power. APsystems has just expanded its dedicated range of EZ1 microinverters with more power options given to end-customers, from 800 W to 1800W and the ability to add micro storage of 1600 watts.

Founded in Silicon Valley in 2010 and now headquartered in Jiaxing, APsystems operates four global business units, serving customers in over 130 countries. In Germany, APsystems works with 15 official distributors as direct customers, as well as hundreds of installers, providing training, marketing and after-sales technical support.

With the ever-growing demand for solar as a viable renewable, decentralized and clean energy for citizens around the globe, market leader APsystems is committed to helping achieve a zero-carbon future, by making solar energy and storage accessible to everyone.

www.apsystems.com

APSYSTEMS: SOLARENERGIE FÜR ALLE

APsystems PV-Produkte reichen von smarten, steckerfertigen Balkonkraftwerken über Aufdach-Lösungen für Wohnhäuser bis hin zu Geräten, die auf gewerbliche Solaranlagen zugeschnitten sind.

Im Rahmen der Energiewende und insbesondere dem durch den Ukraine-Krieg resultierenden Ressourcenmangel hat Deutschland kürzlich die 400.000 Marke an angeschlossenen Balkonsolarkraftwerken überschritten. Diese Anlagen bestehen in den meisten Fällen aus 2-4 Solarmodulen, die außerhalb des Balkons befestigt werden und die Eigentümer beziehungsweise Mieter fortan mit unabhängiger, sauberer Energie versorgen. APsystems hat deshalb kürzlich sein Angebot an EZ1-Mikrowechselrichtern für Endkunden in Deutschland erweitert: nämlich um weitere Leistungsoptionen von 800 W bis 1800 W und die Möglichkeit, einen Mikrospeicher von 1600 Watt hinzuzufügen.

2010 im Silicon Valley gegründet und heute im chinesischen Jiaxing beheimatet, operiert APsystems weltweit mit vier globalen Geschäftseinheiten, die wiederum Kunden in 130 Ländern erreichen. In Deutschland arbeitet APsystems mit 15 Vertragshändlern als Direktkunden zusammen, sowie mit hunderten von Installateuren, für die das Unternehmen Training, Marketing und technische Unterstützung nach dem Verkauf anbietet.

Angesichts des rapide wachsenden Bedarfs an Solarenergie für eine zukunftsfähige, erneuerbare, dezentralisierte und saubere Energieversorgung setzt Marktführer APsystems täglich für Bürger*innen weltweit ein Zeichen in Richtung CO2-neutraler Zukunft, mit einem erleichterten Zugang zur Solarenergienutzung und -speicherung, für alle.

www.emea.apsystems.com/de

LONG-LASTING CLEAN ENERGY WITH LUXEN SOLAR

Now, more than ever, it is time to find sustainable ways to produce energy to meet an ever-increasing demand. Luxen Solar, with its EU headquarters in Vienna, Austria, provides sustainable, clean solutions for decades to come.

Founded in 2005 by Professor Dr. Luis Liu in Spain, Luxen Solar opened its own factory for the production of solar modules near Shanghai in 2011 and today, with fully automated lines using the latest AI technology, the company can look back on a successful journey to have become the preferred choice of many clients and one of the most bankable companies in the industry.

In an industry where one of the biggest challenges for manufacturers is the rapidly changing technology, Luxen Solar has always managed to provide clients with innovative products throughout almost 20 years of business. “The rapid advancement of solar cells technologies dictates the PV modules development, and for us it is important to be able to respond to these changes by securing investments in the most advanced machinery and adapting our products to new market

trends,” explains Business Development Director Alisa Papadimitriou.

Luxen Solar’s PV modules are made with A-grade material and available in a variety of sizes and power range, from 400-700Wp to suit purposes, ranging from residential/commercial and industrial to ground-mounted applications.

“Our business operations are based on honesty and transparency; we are always ready to find a solution for every need or issue our clients are facing. We are out-of-the-box thinkers. In addition to delivering exceptional quality, our modules ensure also high performance even in extremely hot climates. We also offer specially designed products for the agricultural sector, airport proximity, as well as for applications facing higher mechanical stress (snow or wind loads) and those who have to have a higher resistance to hail than the market standard.

On top of that, we offer our clients peace of mind with third-party insurance coverage for the entire duration of our warranties,” Alisa Papadimitriou further explains.

With their extensive experience in the production of high-quality solar modules, Tier 1-listed Luxen Solar has earned a number of recognitions, including one of the most innovative and influential brands in the solar industry and is approved by EBRD’s Green Technology sector.

www.luxensolar.com/products

Luxen Solar smart factory.

Luxen Solar Company.

BUNDESENERGIE NORD: ENERGY TRANSITION MADE EASY

Bundesenergie Nord provide and consult on complete solutions for PV systems and heat pumps, thus acting as a compass for the change towards renewable energy.

Bundesenergie Nord provide and consult on complete solutions for PV systems and heat pumps, thus acting as a compass for the change towards renewable energy.

“You are just one of many” – such was the type of feedback the company had to deal with in the beginning. The energy transition is in full swing and for many users the rapid development still raises questions and obstacles which, much like any other societal change or development, may come along with uncertainties. This is where Bundesenergie Nord steps in. Their declared mission is to support the energy transition through their expertise and literally provide a compass for private and corporate clients.

As the exclusive specialist partner of the renowned German company Buderus, we offer expert and personalised needs assessments. This approach helps build the necessary trust among clients who may have been previously hesitant about the energy transition due to unclear political communication. Most clients

need to comprehend that they will save thousands of Euros in energy costs over the next two decades to make sure that their investment is economically solid and justified – thus becoming independent of rising energy costs, inflation and geopolitical conflicts. From solar systems and heat pumps to wall boxes for electric cars, our competent and personalised needs analysis ensures clients feel well taken care

of, boosting their confidence in adopting renewable energy systems.

The renewable energy sector is still young and, not least through fast growing AI options, marked by a unique and breathtaking speed in both technical development and success. Bundesenergie Nord's mission has therefore always been to offer the highest level of security and quality to consumers throughout Germany. A reliable partner in times of technical and economical change, the company functions as a guide to a completely independent energy supply, offering holistic complete solutions on a solid basis, which in the end guarantee perfect economical self-reliance.

Thanks to many years of experience in the field of renewable energies, Bundesenergie Nord is one of the few companies in a position to offer customers comprehensive advice on genuine self-sufficiency through the symbiosis of PV system and heat pump: “Like a real compass, we guide our customers to their destination together.”

www.bundesenergie-nord.de

BUNDESENERGIE NORD: ENERGIEWENDE LEICHT GEMACHT

Bundesenergie Nord bietet Komplettlösungen für Solaranlagen und Wärmepumpen und agiert als fachkundiger Kompass für die Investition in erneuerbare Energie.

„Ihr seid nur einer von Vielen” – mit solchen und ähnlichen Allgemeinplätzen wurde das Unternehmen zu Beginn öfters konfrontiert. Die Energiewende ist in vollem Gange und weckt, wie alle großangelegten Veränderungen, für viele Konsumenten noch Fragen zu Hindernissen und Unwägbarkeiten. An dieser Stelle setzt Bundesenergie Nord an. Das erklärte Ziel des Unternehmens ist es, die Energiewende mit Expertenwissen zu unterstützen und einen entsprechenden Kompass für Privat- und Firmenkunden zu bieten.

Als exklusiver Fachpartner des deutschen Traditionsunternehmens Buderus bietet die Bundesenergie Nord kompetente und individuelle Bedarfsanalysen für jene Kunden

die, etwa durch unklare Kommunikation von Seiten der Politik, naturgemäß Bedenken und Fragen hegen. Die meisten Kunden müssen zunächst begreifen, dass sie in den nächsten zwei Jahrzehnten Tausende von Euro an Energiekosten einsparen werden. Sie wollen sicher sein, dass ihre Investition wirtschaftlich solide und gerechtfertigt ist und sie letztendlich unabhängig von steigenden Energiekosten, Inflation und geopolitischen Konflikten machen wird. Von der Solaranlage über die Wärmepumpe bis hin zur Wall Box für das Elektroauto: Erst durch eine kompetente und personalisierte Bedarfsanalyse fühlen sich Kunden gut abgeholt und gewinnen mehr Vertrauen bezüglich eines Wechsels zur erneuerbaren Energie.

Der Sektor Erneuerbare Energie ist noch jung und wächst, unter anderem durch die Möglichkeiten von KI, mit atemberaubender Geschwindigkeit, sowohl was die technischen Entwicklungen als auch ihren Erfolg angeht. Bundesenergie Nord hat es sich daher zur Mission gemacht, Verbrauchern in ganz Deutschland ein Höchstmaß an Sicherheit und Qualität zu bieten und ihnen als verlässlicher Partner in unübersichtlichen Zeiten den Weg zu einer unabhängigen Energieversorgung mit solider ökonomischer Basis zu weisen. Geboten wird eine Komplettlösung, die am Ende ganzheitlich zu einer echten Autarkie führt.

Dank vieler Jahre Erfahrung und Expertise im Bereich der erneuerbaren Energien ist das Unternehmen wie wenige andere in der Lage, Kunden bundesweit eine umfassende Beratung zu ermöglichen, die durch die Symbiose von Solaranlage und Wärmepumpe am Ende eine perfekte wirtschaftliche Unabhängigkeit garantiert: „Wie ein echter Kompass führen wir unsere Kunden gemeinsam ans Ziel.”

www.bundesenergie-nord.de

Culture Calendar

Discover a vibrant mix of culinary delights, cultural performances and artistic showcases this August. From Freiburg's diverse street food market to Berlin's premier dance festival, and the innovative Ruhrtriennale, there's something for everyone. Don't miss the chance to immerse yourself in unique experiences across the DACH region and enjoy the height of summer in style.

TEXT: MARILENA STRACKE

MS Dockville Festival, Hamburg. Photo: Sebastian Madej

STREET FOOD MARKET, FREIBURG (3 - 4 AUGUST)

Freiburg's popular street food market entices visitors with a diverse array of international culinary delights. For two days, it feels like every food truck in Germany gets together here, offering a unique opportunity to sample a wide variety of delicious foods all in one vibrant location. www.streetfoodmarket-freiburg.de

BUSKERS

BERN, BERN (8 – 10 AUGUST)

Everyone is invited to bask in the relaxed yet festive atmosphere of Bern’s Old Town. With 144 artists and 321 shows, guests can anticipate a stunning lineup of cultural performances, further enriched by culinary delights throughout the city.

www.buskersbern.ch

TANZ IM AUGUST, BERLIN (15 - 31 AUGUST)

Without a doubt, this is one of the most important dance festivals in Europe. Here, dance and experimental choreography take centre stage. The best performers from around the world gather to celebrate innovative dance. Dance fans can look forward to German premieres and a variety of accompanying events.

www.tanzimaugust.de

RUHRTRIENNALE, RUHR (16 AUGUST – 15 SEPTEMBER)

This art festival invites contemporary artists to showcase their works around the historic industrial buildings of the Ruhr area. Featuring a diverse blend of music, dance, theatre, installations, and fine arts, the festival creates a unique connection between art and industrial spaces, offering an utterly irresistible atmosphere.

www.ruhrtriennale.de

MS DOCKVILLE FESTIVAL, HAMBURG (16 – 18 AUGUST)

The MS Dockville Festival is a vibrant music and arts event in the heart of Hamburg, attracting over 60,000 visitors and around 10,000 campers annually. Featuring a diverse lineup of artists, bands and DJs across twelve stages, the festival offers an exhilarating atmosphere for music and art enthusiasts alike, all set against the scenic backdrop of the harbour.

www.msdockville.de

Gourmet Food Festival, Düsseldorf. Photo: Gourmet Food Festival

Gourmet Food Festival, Düsseldorf. Photo: Gourmet Food Festival

Street Food Market Freiburg. Photo: FWTM, Fotografie mit Harmonie - Francesco Sabatino

Street Food Market Freiburg.

Photo: FWTM, Fotografie mit Harmonie - Francesco Sabatino

ONARIS, BERN (18 – 20 AUGUST)

As a premier trade fair for innovations and trends, Onaris is set to feature around 250 exhibitors showcasing the latest in lifestyle, decor and accessories, complemented by culinary delights. The fair unites creative young designers, established industry leaders, and a dynamic professional audience. This year's theme is 'handmade', celebrating artisanal craftsmanship and unique designs. www.ornaris.ch

GOURMET FESTIVAL DÜSSELDORF,

DÜSSELDORF (23 – 25 AUGUST)

The Gourmet Festival Düsseldorf showcases over 200 exhibitors from upscale gastronomy, featuring delicacies from around the globe and an array of drinks including wine, champagne and gin. Visitors can also savour street food from the charmingly designed food trucks, making it a delightful experience for all foodies.

www.gourmetfestivals.de/exhibition/ gourmet-festival-duesseldorf-2024

(24 – 25 AUGUST)

Classic car lovers will revel in the charm of the wonderfully old-school Old Timer Festival. The highlight of the event is the Old Timer Parade,

where vehicles of all shapes, sizes and eras tour the Ring. Many classic car aficionados travel great distances to participate, and even as a spectator, the experience is well worth it. www.viennaclassicdays.com

VIENNA CLASSIC DAYS, VIENNA

Buskers Bern. Photo: ZVG Buskers Bern / Matthias Luggen

Vienna Classic Days.Photo: Dirk Hartung, Copyright Vienna Classic Days/AutoSport.at

Castle Gold

Do you like castles? In case you find yourself in need of cultural input with a nice aside of splendid park design – and you don’t have the time to go all the way to Potsdam –Schloss Schönhausen might be just the right thing.

By way of explanation: Potsdam’s famed Sanssouci project, a beautifully laid out composition of castle architecture and garden design was originally started by Frederik the Great (“Alter Fritz” to the devoted Berliner), while Schloss Schönhausen was the domain of his wife Queen Christine Elisabeth.

Inside, you will find accommodating staff and clean facilities as well as one of the nicest small museum shops in Berlin. If inclined to take a tour through the carefully restored interiors, you will not only find out about Queen Christine Elisabeth’s significant influence on the surrounding communities but also about the role the location played during GDR times. After 1945, just like the city itself, Elisabeth’s gardens were divided in two. The considerably smaller yet most beautiful part around the castle became GDR president Wilhelm Pieck’s official residence and was overhauled into what was then deemed a ‘Modern Garden’. Leaning much on pre-war design with its classical modernist and Bauhaus influences, the new additions by Reinhold Linger favoured clear-cut layouts and a reduced formal language, forming a representative, modern frame for official receptions. The stylish guest rooms on the upper floor meanwhile were used by highranking GDR visitors, such as the late Russian president Mikhail Gorbachev (“Gorbi” to the devoted Berliner) and his wife Raissa.

The route to this inspiring location of Berlin history can be taken either from the city centre of Berlin-Pankow, or via the Mauerweg (Berlin Wall path) if you leave it by turning right into Bürgerpark and crossing over to Parkstrasse – a lush, tree-lined street with garden villas stretching between Bürgerpark and Schlosspark Schönhausen. At the end of Parkstrasse, turn left and you will soon see the gatehouses.

Once you arrive at the castle, one of the most important side perks of the gardens are the immense sycamore trees, placed in a group behind the castle and at 190+ years now listed as natural monuments. The oldest and largest tree guards the castle to the right and since 2022 is also sheltering a returned female resident of Schönhausen again: ‘Resting woman’ by Fritz Hut is a 1920s bronze sculpture formerly looted by the Nazi regime. It was found on a military waste site and had initially been given to the National Gallery. Once the provenience was clear, it was passed on to the foundation Fürstenberg-Beaumesnil (Hans Jean Fürstenberg having been identified as the original owner), and finally allowed to return to the castle gardens. The sculpture’s history truly reads like a thriller, and it is a pleasure to see it safely returned to its original home. To the other side of the building, a lotus pool forms part of a sunken garden which,

together with the tea house at the other end of the park, rounds up the modern design by Reinhold Linger. Hungry from all the fresh air and input? Café ‘Sommerlust’ at the park entrance by Tschaikowskistrasse provides coffee and the yummiest vegan ice cream Berlin has to offer.

Cornelia Brelowski is a writer and journalist who lives in Berlin. With her main field of interest being art and design, she enjoys observing her history-laden home town in all its quirky details and ever-changing shape and culture. Apart from writing, the author also engages in English language theatre, the art of which she learned in London.

Schloss Schönhausen, Berlin Pankow. Photo: A. Savin, Wikipedia

Photo: Coline Matthee

Dialects

There are loads of them in the German language, associated with all the different German-speaking geographies in and outside the country itself. Dialects are also a controversial topic that divides opinions. For some of the native German speakers who ‘only’ speak ‘High German’ – our equivalent of the British Received Pronunciation – dialects are akin to lower intellect and a certain coarseness. Being both fluent in a German dialect and High German, I, naturally, disagree with that notion, not necessarily because I find my regional dialect so beautiful (or myself so intelligent). In fact, I would always objectively say that my region’s dialect is pretty “ugly” and I can completely understand when people are horrified listening to it. But it’s still very dear to me and part of my Heimat, the place where I come from, something that adds another linguistic and emotional dimension to my identity that I wouldn’t want to miss. In a nutshell, I really like dialects.

Do I therefore like every German dialect? No. Because frankly, that’s impossible, and every German speaker has their likes and dislikes. According to a survey by an online language learning platform from last August, where respondents answered the question “Which German dialects do you not like at all?” by choosing from a list of 18 different options, the three least popular dialects in Germany are Sächsisch (Saxon), Schwäbisch (Swabian) and

Discover Germany Issue 120, August 2024

Published 08.2024

ISSN 2051-7718

Published by Scan Magazine Ltd.

Print Stibo Complete

Executive Editor

Thomas Winther

Creative Director

Mads E. Petersen

Bairisch (Bavarian). Based on that, my dislikes are two-thirds in line with my fellow Germans but I’m surprised about Bavarian being so high up. What’s wrong with a bit of Bairisch? Well, apparently quite a lot for the 18,6% of respondents that don‘t like Bavarian at all. 19,3% are absolutely not keen on Swabian and for 37,6% Saxon is an absolute no-no.

The survey results also show that your likes and dislikes are tied to age and your own home region. Among younger respondents between the ages of 16 and 24, only 29% voted for Saxon as their least favourite dialect while 44% in the 45 and 54 age bracket did. In Saxony and Mecklenburg-Vorpommern, federal states in the East and North-East of the country, Bavarian as spoken by their brothers and sisters in the south is the least popular dialect with 30 % respectively 33 % saying that they can’t stand it, while Berlinerisch is particularly unpopular in Baden-Wuerttemberg – only trumped by Saxon – with one in five people not liking the local vernacular spoken in Berlin.

Another thing that stands out is that variations of the language that are spoken outside Germany, such as Schwyzerdütsch (Swiss German) and various Austrian dialects, do not trigger particularly negative feelings among Germans. And the least annoying dialect of all according to the survey is Westfälisch (Westphalian) spoken in the north-eastern part of North Rhine-

Editor

Nane Steinhoff

Assistant Editor

Marilena Stracke

Copy-Editor

Vera Winther

Graphic Designer

Mercedes Moulia

Mauro Salerno

Sales & Key Account Managers

Julia Freisinger

Lawinia Toth

Sophie Blecha Contributors

Barbara Geier

Cornelia Brelowski

Daniel Barthold

Marilena Stracke

Silke Henkele

Wibke Carter

Cover Photo © Tatsiana Tribunalova

TEXT

& PHOTOS: BARBARA GEIER

Westphalia. Maybe that’s because it is not really a dialect but very close to High German. At least from my dialect perspective which is –drumrolls – Pfälzisch, spoken in the Palatinate part of Rhineland-Palatinate, and at number eleven in the ranking of the least liked dialects in Germany. I can live with that and would actually have expected a much higher dislike rate for my second (or first?) native language. In conclusion, give it up for dialects, people. The sound of some of them may grate on you, but without them, the German language – and any language – would be way less diverse, idiosyncratic and interesting.

Geier is a London-based freelance writer, translator and communications consultant. She is also the face behind www.germanyiswunderbar.com , a German travel and tourism guide and blog

up together with UK travel writer Andrew Eames in 2010.

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