Discover Germany, Issue 123, November 2024

Dear Reader,

Winter is finally here and if you’re a big festive season fan, you don’t have to wait too much longer for Christmas and New Year’s Eve. To get you prepared well in advance, we have put together a Christmas market special in this issue where we introduce the top Christmas markets to visit in 2025 in Germany, Austria, as well as Switzerland. And as Christmas just wouldn’t be Christmas without indulging in some awesome culinary treats, we also explored the DACH region’s top ten festive treats. From tasty ‘Stollen’ cake to the warming ‘Lumumba’ drink, be sure to try something new this year. Or, if you’re into chocolate, read our special feature on the top chocolate brands from Switzerland.

Our cover this month is adorned by a wonderful story straight out of Tyrol. Here, cute llamas take Alpine hikers on trekking tours through beautiful mountain landscapes. Travel writer and journalist Norbert Eisele-Hein joined the furry pack to find out more.

If you’re looking for an inspiring read, make sure to check out our interview with ultra-athlete Arda Saatci who is pushing the boundaries of the impossible. He recently finished a 3,000-kilometrelong ultra marathon from Berlin to New York for which he ran 50 kilometres a day. He speaks to Discover Germany, Switzerland & Austria about this adventure, his motivation, and more.

Other topics covered in our brand-new issue are Germany’s top breweries, top hotels, great destinations, innovative architects, inspiring interior design, and much, much more.

Sit back, relax and thanks for reading!

Nane Steinhoff Editor

NOVEMBER 2024

COVER FEATURE

36 PANORAMA WITH LLAMAS

In the Andes, llamas have always served as pack animals and suppliers of wool. Increasingly, they also conquer the hearts of Alpine hikers - and not just because they carry their luggage. The fluffy four-legged friends also provide plenty of happiness hormones.

SPECIAL THEMES

16 FOCUS ON GERMANY'S TOP BREWERIES

It’s probably not a secret that Germany has a very rich beer culture, with the average German consuming around 90.4 litres of beer each year. Here, we take a look at the country’s top breweries to learn more about local beers and their innovative makers.

58 GET FESTIVE

- TOP CHRISTMAS MARKETS

Germany, Switzerland and Austria are famous for their beautiful and diverse selection of Christmas markets. Visit a big city and you will not get around it, visit a small city and it will be the centrepiece. But what is it about these winter wonderland installations that makes them so very irresistible? Let’s find out in this special theme.

FEATURES

22 TOP 10 SWISS CHOCOLATE BRANDS

Love chocolate? Then, Swiss chocolate is an absolute must. Here, we introduce the country’s top chocolate brands to give you some sweet inspiration for the festive season.

26 ARDA SAATCI: “I LOVE TESTING MY OWN LIMITS”

The ultra-athlete Arda Saatci is currently pushing the boundaries of the impossible. He recently finished a 3,000-kilometre-long ultra marathon from Berlin to New York for which he ran 50 kilometres a day. He speaks to Discover Germany, Switzerland & Austria about this adventure, his motivation, and more.

54 TOP TEN CHRISTMAS MARKET FOODS TO TRY THIS YEAR

‘Tis the season to be jolly – and indulgent! After all, Christmas just wouldn’t be Christmas without visiting a gorgeous seasonal market at least once. But what to eat and drink when you visit? We’ve got you covered!

70 ALTA BADIA’S 39TH ALPINE SKI WORLD CUP

Preparations for the two Alpine World Cup races are currently underway in Alta Badia. The special event will place on Sunday 22nd and Monday 23rd December on the famous Gran Risa slope, one of the most technically demanding and spectacular pistes in the entire white circus.

74 ARCHITECT OF THE MONTH

Swiss architectural office Burckhardt combines the reliability, expertise and experience of a long-established enterprise with the power of innovation.

REGULARS & COLUMNS

6 DEDICATED TO DESIGN

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

11 WINE & DINE

Top restaurants, tasty treats, and award-winning breweries can all be found in our Wine & Dine section.

42 TRAVEL

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

76 CULTURE CALENDAR

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

81 SECRET BERLIN COLUMN

This month, long-term Berlin resident Cornelia Brelowski explores the inner city transport options in Berlin and discovers why true Berliners still opt for bikes or scooters instead of public transport.

82 BARBARA GEIER COLUMN

This month, our columnist Barbara Geier delves deeper into a funny brush with royalty. “One of my favourite stories to come out of Germany recently is that of the comedian who claims he’s the greatgrandson of King Edward VII,” she writes.

Fashion Finds

In need of sustainable children’s clothes? Look no further! The Berlin-based label PETIT COCHON ticks all the boxes. While production conditions and materials are important factors, it’s also vital that items grow together with the child so clothes don’t have to be constantly replaced. PETIT COCHON’s items are designed to adapt to growth and can be worn in multiple sizes. The timeless products from PETIT COCHON, produced in Berlin, can be grown for a particularly long time thanks to well-thought-out cuts and have a very long service life thanks to their simple design and good quality. Here are our favourites!

The PETIT COCHON Michel hat - makes every child look cute and cheeky. It can be worn all year round. The cord is robust and elastic and the hat has a cuff, so it grows with you and sits on your head without pinching. From £21. www.petit-cochon.de

With the Fischgrat knickerbocker, children can enjoy hot summer days in a relaxed manner. But it is also suitable as the bottom layer for the colder seasons. Easy to put on, super comfortable and just totally cute. The natural fibre has a cooling effect, is breathable and is particularly robust. From £28. www.petit-cochon.de

This jacket with teddy lining is the perfect solution for winter and PETIT COCHON’s warmest jacket. It keeps little ones warm even in sub-zero temperatures. It grows with the child for a long time and is particularly durable thanks to its quality. The wool jacket is unisex and available in many beautiful colours. From £64. www.petit-cochon.de

EDITOR’S PICKS I PRESS IMAGES BY PETIT COCHON

Super soft and without buttons: The long-sleeved Loopbody bodysuit grows with a child for a long time - and is always suitable and comfortable. The highlight: a loop that surrounds your baby's stomach, makes it easier to put on and take off and provides extra warmth. The modal-cashmere mix is breathable, cuddly and so soft. For its unique design, the patent-pending wrap body was awarded the Red Dot Award, the German Innovation Award and many other prizes. From £28. www.petit-cochon.de

The wool walking suit made from 100% virgin wool with organic jersey lining. It is the ideal companion for spring, autumn and winter. Thanks to the wonderful natural properties of wool and organic cotton, your child stays warm without overheating. In winter, the PETIT COCHON team recommends using the ‘onion principle’ to wear additional, breathable, warm layers underneath. Then the suit can also be worn in sub-zero temperatures. From £64. www.petit-cochon.de

The finest corduroy and elastic ribbed cuffs make the Knickerbocker trousers for every season. The fabric is thin and is a great companion, especially in spring and summer. Thanks to the wide cut and wide cuffs, it will grow with you for a long time. From £28. www.petit-cochon.de

Dedicated to Design

The ‘French Farmhouse’ trend brings the rustic charm of the countryside into modern living spaces, blending timeless elegance with relaxed, lived-in warmth. Think muted tones, weathered wood, soft linens, and vintage-inspired decor that exudes a sense of history and character.

EDITOR’S PICKS I PHOTO: PRESS LOFT

A mid biscuit beige paint with warm yellow and grey undertones. ‘Beige 02’ creates restful spaces thanks to its earthy, cocooning qualities, and its soft eggshell finish. £45. www.lick.com

The Bentwood Counter Stool Range emphasises traditional farmhouse qualities like the stunning cross-back, curved top rail and rattan seat. Available in two colours that are versatile for any dining space style: Black and Limed Oak. £120. www.peppermillinteriors.com

This stylish chopping board is made from mango wood and comes in the shape of a classic bread paddle with a small handle at the top. £22.99. www.hm.com

This romantic gingham cushion is inspired by cosy country cottages and classic summer dresses. £25. www.frenchbedroom.co.uk

Laundry doesn’t need to be boring – as this handmade rattan laundry basket vividly shows. £65. www.marquisanddawe.co.uk

It is increasingly difficult to acquire genuine reclaimed flagstones, but this rustic French limestone has an authentic ancient finish that replicates all of the qualities of originals along with complete practicality and sustainability of supply. £228. www.artisansofdevizes.com

Transform your bedroom into an effortlessly elegant sleep sanctuary with the beautiful, Maribel Bed. This French-style bed combines acacia wood with a warm grey-toned linen and is complete with four posters that will make a chic statement in any bedroom interior. £2,690. www.sweetpeaandwillow.com

WILLKOMMEN IN DER ZUKUNFT DES COACHINGS

WELCOME TO THE FUTURE OF COACHING relaxcoaching.de

Sie sind Investor und bereit die nächste Generation des Coachings mitzugestalten? Oder Sie möchten als einer der ersten Nutzer dabei sein? Besuchen Sie unsere Website und erfahren sie mehr.

You are an investor and ready to shape the next generation of coaching? Or you would like to be one of the first users? Visit our website and find out more.

RCS wurde im Rahmen des EXIST-Programms durch das Bundesministerium für Wirtschaft und Klimaschutz und den Europäischen Sozialfonds gefördert.

RCS was funded as part of the EXIST program by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action and the European Social Fund.

DREAMING WITH YOUR EYES OPEN - GOURMET INSPIRATION BIANC

Crisp flavours, exquisite creations and the finest ingredients. At Hamburg restaurant bianc, Matteo Ferrantino creates imaginative culinary worlds for his guests.

A sleek interior and a cosy atmosphere go hand in hand at bianc. Designed like an Italian piazza, an olive tree dominates the space, giving it a special touch. The Italian warmth of bianc’s team is a crucial factor that makes a visit to this restaurant an exceptional dining experience. At bianc, Italy is really close!

In this inspiring atmosphere, head chef Matteo Farrentino creates culinary surprises. bianc’s gourmet offer changes several times a month, so guests won’t find ‘business as usual’ on the menu. Matteo cooks exclusively with olive oil produced by himself and his family in Mattinata. High quality and unique flavour are a given at bianc!

And if you would like to know how delicious dishes such as his

speciality ‘Don't trust your eyes’ are created, Matteo invites you to visit him and his team in the kitchen.

The sommelier’s selection of excellent wines, perfectly matched to the dishes on the menu, completes the unique gourmet experience at bianc.

www.bianc.de/en

TRÄUMEN MIT OFFENEN AUGEN - GOURMETINSPIRATION BIANC

Klare Aromen, raffinierte Kreationen und hochwertige Zutaten. Im Hamburger Restaurant bianc eröffnet Matteo Ferrantino seinen Gästen neue kulinarische Welten, die zum Träumen einladen.

Ein cleanes Interieur und familiäre Atmosphäre - im bianc sind das keine Gegensätze. Aufgebaut wie eine italienische Piazza, dominiert ein Olivenbaum den Raum und verleiht ihm eine ganz besondere Note. Italien ist hier ganz nahe! Unterstrichen von der italienischen Herzlichkeit, mit der das Team des bianc seine Gäste empfängt, ist ein Besuch im bianc immer ein außergewöhnliches Erlebnis gastronomischer Exzellenz.

In dieser inspirierenden Atmosphäre kreiert Chefkoch Matteo Farrentino Gerichte, die überraschen. Kein Wunder, denn die Karte des bianc wechselt mehrmals im Monat, so dass es ‚business as usual’ hier nicht gibt. Matteo kocht ausschließlich mit Olivenöl, das er und seine Familie selbst in Mattinata produziert. Hohe Qualität und einmaliger Geschmack sind im bianc selbstverständlich!

Wer wissen möchte, wie so leckere Gerichte wie seine Spezialität ‘Don’t trust your eyes’ entstehen, den lädt Matteo ein, ihn und sein Team in der Küche zu besuchen.

Der Sommelier rundet das besondere Gourmeterlebnis im bianc mit seiner perfekt auf die Speisen abgestimmten Auswahl exzellenter Weine ab.

www.bianc.de/de

THE FIRST GAZOSA WITHOUT ARTIFICIAL COLOURINGS

The iconic Ticino lemonade, Gazosa, has been given a modern twist with Gazosa 1883 - free from artificial colourings and made with natural flavours. A sparkling treat that revives the authentic taste of a bygone era.

Gazosa, the clear, fizzy lemonade from Ticino, was once affectionately known as the ‘Champagne of the poor’, delighting generations with its distinctive ‘pop’ when opened. "For me, Gazosa is all about flavour and memories of summer holidays in Ticino," says Marco Oesch. "I’m thrilled to now produce Gazosa 1883, the first-ever Gazosa made entirely with natural flavours and without artificial colourings." His creation is a gourmet drink that brings the true taste of traditional Ticino lemonade back to life.

The name Gazosa 1883 pays tribute to the first lemonade factory in Ticino, established in Mendrisio in 1883. Back then, lemons were imported from Italy to create the refreshing drink. “The bottling process was unique,” Marco explains. "They originally used a bulbous green glass bottle with a wire-secured cork, much like Champagne bottles, which is where the charming nickname came from."

Today, Gazosa 1883 is available in nine different flavours, from classics like Limone, Mandarino and Raspberry to more adventurous options such as Blood Orange Ginger and Apple-Cinnamon.

A taste you simply have to experience for yourself!

www.gazosa1883.ch

DIE ERSTE GAZOSA OHNE KÜNSTLICHE FARBSTOFFE

Die traditionsreiche Tessiner Limonade Gazosa wird mit Gazosa 1883 neu interpretiert – ganz ohne künstliche Farbstoffe und mit natürlichen Aromen. Ein prickelnder Genuss, der den authentischen Geschmack vergangener Zeiten aufleben lässt.

Gazosa, die klare, kohlensäurehaltige Limonade aus dem Tessin, die einst liebevoll ‚Champagner der Armen‘ genannt wurde, begeistert seit Generationen mit ihrem charakteristischen ‚Plopp‘ beim Öffnen. „Für mich ist Gazosa vor allem Gaumenfreude und Kindheitserinnerung an meine Sommerferien im Tessin“, erzählt Marco Oesch. „Umso mehr freue ich mich, dass ich nun mit Gazosa 1883 die erste Gazosa überhaupt mit natürlichen Aromen und ohne künstliche Farbstoffe herstellen darf.“ Dabei ist es ihm gelungen ein Getränk für Gourmets zu kreieren, das den authentischen Geschmack von Tessiner Limonade aufleben lässt.

Der Name Gazosa 1883 ehrt übrigens die erste Tessiner Limonadenfabrik, die 1883 in Mendrisio eröffnet wurde. Damals wurden Zitronen aus Italien importiert, um die erfrischende Limonade herzustellen. „Das Besondere an der Limonade war die Abfüllung“, sagt Marco. „Am Anfang benutzte man eine bauchige, grüne Glasflasche, dessen Verschlusskorken noch mit einem Eisendraht befestigt war, wie beim Champagner, wovon der charmante Spitzname kommt.“

Mittlerweile ist Gazosa 1883 in neun Sorten erhältlich, darunter natürlich die Klassiker wie Limone, Mandarino und Himbeere, aber auch ausgefallenere Varianten wie Blutorange Ginger und Apfel-Zimt.

Ein Genuss, den man einfach selbst erleben muss.

Marco Oesch. Photo: Valeriano di Domenico

Photo: Marco Oesch

Photo: Marco Oesch

LALLAGIN – A NEW PREMIUM GIN BRAND CREATED BY A FEMALE ARTIST

Christal Lalla, the founder of LallaGin, is a charismatic young American artist, sommelier and spirit designer. Her special gift – olfactory skills, unique sense of taste and smell - became even heightened as a result of her oral cancer. After working as a singer, getting certified as an international sommelier and becoming an international judge working in the wine industry, Christal began designing high-end spirits and created her own product line.

Christal’s passion for tasting and chemistry evolved into a thriving business in the world of spirits. Since 2018, she has been mixing high-end gins and worked on other sophisticated spirits and cocktails in Switzerland, Germany, Italy, and the USA.

“The step from a singer to the wine cellar and to distilleries was forced by a stroke of fate with oral cancer. I had to completely reinvent myself,” she adds. “Fortunately, after defeating cancer, my tasting abilities surprisingly improved. And I was lucky, I had the opportunity to co-lead a prestigious Brunello winery in Italy for some years and later to work in a Swiss distillery, designing individual gins for the restaurant L’Amant in Zurich and for restaurants and bars of a very well-known Swiss chef,

Andreas Caminada. So, I was able to build up a dense network in the wine and spirits industry and finally start my own production.”

Christal’s recent successfully-owned gin editions are created together with the prestigious Orator Distillery in Pfungen near Zurich and the well-known Wanderer Distillery near Cologne. In Pfungen, Christal composed four completely new gins, the Lalla Gin Four Seasons Limited Edition - a masterpiece dedicated to the memory of her late father Michael. Three of these four gins were awarded with a silver medal at the prestigious DistiSuisse competition 2023/24.

Subsequently, Christal started in Cologne the development of her Carnival Gin - a gin for the

very important fifth season in the Rhineland and elsewhere. The new gin will be shortly released for the Carnival Session 2024/25 together with her great cocktail recipes.

“With the Four Seasons Edition, I wanted to design and produce something very highend, gins which you might even prefer to drink pure”, Christal underlines. “Closing your eyes and taking a sip, you can smell, taste and feel the season and its special botanicals. The labels for the bottles contain my own paintings representing my version of each season with its unique colours. And the Carnival Gin represents fun, an explosion of emotions, colours, and joy, starting from the very special bottle which I personally designed to the distinctive berry flavour with notes of citrus fruits, blueberry, raspberry, cranberry, juniper and more. By the way: Lalla Gin products are based on natural ingredients with bio quality, distilled and mixed separately with high precision and passion, which is crucial to my brand.”

www.lallagin.ch

SPECIAL THEME: FOCUS ON GERMANY’S TOP BREWERIES

Tasty beverages all around

It’s probably not a secret that Germany has a very rich beer culture, with the average German consuming around 90.4 litres of beer each year. In the following special theme, we take a look at the country’s top breweries to learn more about local beers and their innovative makers.

UNSPLASH

PHOTOS:

VETTER’S ALT HEIDELBERGER BRAUHAUS: FAMILY MATTER

Vetter’s Alt Heidelberger Brauhaus is a pub brewery at one of Germany’s oldest and finest tourist destinations.

The historical university town of Heidelberg is often referred to as the most beautiful city in Germany. It is also home to a family brewery that made it into the 1994 Guinness World Records by producing the world's strongest beer with 33% original gravity, the 'Vetter33'.

Founded in 1987, the pub brewery has meanwhile become an institution in Heidelberg and draws a mix of regional and international tourists, students and professors as well as celebrities, dropping in for a pint with veal sausage and oven-fresh pretzels.

Michael Vetter, who took over the family business in 2001, explains the main attraction: “Our craft beer is brewed right in front of the guests. We brew our beer by hand as it was done hundreds of years ago in accordance with the German Purity Law.”

The popular pub is located in the heart of the old town, not far from the picturesque Old Bridge. The family project once began with founder Klaus Peter Vetter’s passion for trips to traditional breweries and Bavarian hospitality.

The concept of home-brewed beer and traditional German cuisine has proven its worth, says Michael Vetter: “Basically, Vetter's Alte Heidelberger Brauhaus should remain as it is, always striving to become even a little better.”

www.brauhaus-vetter.de

VETTER’S ALT HEIDELBERGER BRAUHAUS: FAMILIENSACHE

Vetter’s Alt Heidelberger Brauhaus ist ein Brauereigasthaus an einem der ältesten und beliebtesten Touristenziele Deutschlands.

Die historische Universitätsstadt Heidelberg wird im Ausland oft als schönste Stadt Deutschlands bezeichnet. Hier befindet sich die Familienbrauerei Vetter’s Alt Heidelberger Brauhaus, die es 1994 ins Guinness-Buch der Rekorde geschafft hat, mit dem stärksten selbstgebrauten Bier der Welt durch 33% Stammwürze, dem ,Vetter33'.

Die 1987 gegründete Gasthausbrauerei gilt als Heidelberger Institution und zieht regelmäßig ein gemischtes Publikum aus regionalen und internationalen Touristen, Studenten und Professoren sowie Prominenten an, die gern auf ein Bier mit Weißwurst und ofenfrischen Brezeln vorbeischauen.

Michael Vetter hat den Familienbetrieb 2001 übernommen. Er beschreibt die Hauptattraktion: „Unser Craft Beer wird direkt vor den Augen der Gäste gebraut. Trotz einiger Anpassungen bleiben wir unserem Hauptprodukt treu und brauen unser Bier handwerklich wie vor hunderten Jahren nach dem deutschen Reinheitsgebot.”

Das beliebte Lokal liegt mitten in der Heidelberger Altstadt, unweit der ,Alten Brücke'. Begonnen hatte das Familien-Projekt mit einer privaten Leidenschaft von Gründer Klaus Peter Vetter, der seine Inspiration einst aus Reisen zu den traditionellen deutschen Bierbrauereien und dem Genuss bayerischer Gastlichkeit zog.

Das Konzept von selbstgebrautem Bier und traditioneller deutscher Küche hat sich bewährt, freut sich Michael Vetter: „Grundsätzlich soll das Vetter’s Alte Heidelberger Brauhaus so bleiben wie es ist, immer mit dem Bestreben, noch etwas besser zu werden.”

www.brauhaus-vetter.de

‘Vetter’s Alt Heidelberger Brauhaus’ Pub Brewery.

CENTURIES OF BREWING TRADITION: WEIHENSTEPHAN AND THE MAGIC OF BEER

For nearly a thousand years, Weihenstephan has been brewing beers that seamlessly blend tradition with modern innovation. Today, classics like its Hefeweissbier captivate beer lovers worldwide.

Founded in 1040, when the monastery in Freising obtained brewing and tavern rights, the Bavarian State Brewery Weihenstephan is recognised as the world's oldest continuously operating brewery. While the beers have evolved over the centuries – from the once hazy, malty-sweet brews to today’s smoother, more refined varieties – one aspect has remained: brewing expertise is still passed down through generations of brewmasters.

Weihenstephan is dedicated to beer lovers who appreciate bold, characterful beers. "Classic styles like Hefeweissbier and Helles are complemented by more unique offerings such as Weizenbock or a dark Doppelbock," says Tobias Zollo, the brewery's technical director and head brewer.

The star of the lineup remains the internationally renowned Weihenstephaner Hefeweissbier, exported to over 60 countries.

But the brewery’s range offers plenty of other highlights. "Our Hefeweissbier Dunkel was recently crowned the world's best wheat beer at the World Beer Awards, which was a huge honour," Zollo shares. This accolade was echoed at the International Beer Challenge, where it also won best wheat beer. "Our bottom-fermented beers are also incredibly popular. With our new Weihenstephaner

Helles, we've really struck a chord with younger adults."

Tobias Zollo highlights that the key to quality lies in selecting regional ingredients and allowing ample time for the beer to mature. "All of our ingredients are sourced exclusively from Bavaria, as quality and locality are absolutely essential for us. Our hops come from Hallertau, the world’s largest continuous hop-growing region, just ten minutes away. We source our malt from Bavarian maltsters, our water directly from Freising, and we cultivate our own yeast. And then there's the importance of time: the more time we give the beer, the smoother, more balanced and flavourful it becomes."

As for his personal favourite? The Weizenbock Vitus. "At 7.7% alcohol, it’s definitely one to savour – but I guarantee anyone who tries it will experience an explosion of flavour."

Feeling thirsty?

www.weihenstephaner.de

Photo: Anton Hirschfeld

The brewery's technical director and head brewer Tobias Zollo. Photo: Anton Hirschfeld

BRAUKUNST SEIT JAHRHUNDERTEN: WEIHENSTEPHAN UND DIE MAGIE DES BIERES

Seit fast 1000 Jahren braut Weihenstephan Biere, die Tradition und Moderne vereinen. Heute begeistern Klassiker wie das Hefeweißbier Genießer weltweit.

Gegründet im Jahr 1040, als das Kloster in Freising das Brau- und Schankrecht erwarb, gilt die Bayerische Staatsbrauerei Weihenstephan als älteste noch bestehende Brauerei der Welt.

Die Biere haben sich seither stark verändert –während früher trübe, malzig-süße Biere den Ton angaben, genießen Bierliebhaber heute milde, süffige Varianten. Trotzdem bleibt eines unverändert: Die Erfahrungswerte werden weiterhin von Braumeister zu Braumeister weitergegeben.

Weihenstephan richtet sich grundsätzlich an Bierliebhaber, die charakterstarke Biere schätzen. „Klassische Bierstile wie Hefeweißbiere

und Helle werden durch exotischere Vertreter wie einem Weizenbock oder einem dunklen Doppelbock ergänzt“, erzählt Technischer Leiter und 1. Braumeister Tobias Zollo.

Das Aushängeschild ist und bleibt das international gefeierte Weihenstephaner Hefeweißbier, das in über 60 Länder exportiert wird. Doch im Sortiment finden sich eine ganze Reihe unterschiedlicher Highlights. „Unser Hefeweißbier Dunkel wurde zuletzt bei den World Beer Awards zum weltbesten Weißbier gekürt, was uns sehr gefreut hat“, sagt Tobias Zollo. Bestätigt wurde dieser Erfolg auch noch bei der International Beer Challenge, wo es

ebenfalls als bestes Weißbier ausgezeichnet wurde. „Aber auch unsere untergärigen Biere erfreuen sich großer Beliebtheit. Mit unserem neuen Weihenstephaner Hellen können wir vor allem bei jungen Erwachsenen punkten.“

Der sympathische Braumeister betont, dass bei der Produktion vor allem die Auswahl regionaler Rohstoffe und die nötige Reifezeit entscheidend sind. „Unsere Rohstoffe kommen alle ausnahmslos aus dem Bierland Bayern, weil höchste Qualität und Regionalität für uns über allem stehen. Den Hopfen bekommen wir aus dem größten zusammenhängenden Anbaugebiet der Welt, der Hallertau, die zehn Minuten von der Brauerei entfernt ist. Unser Malz beziehen wir aus bayerischen Mälzereien, das Wasser bekommen wir direkt aus Freising und unsere Hefe kultivieren wir selbst. Dann kommt noch der Faktor Zeit hinzu: Je mehr Zeit wir dem Bier gönnen, desto runder, süffiger und geschmackvoller wird es.“

Sein ganz persönlicher Favorit ist übrigens der Weizenbock Vitus: „Mit 7,7 Prozent Alkohol ist er natürlich mit Vorsicht zu genießen – aber ich verspreche jedem, der ihn probiert, eine Geschmacksexplosion.“

Lust auf eine kleine Erfrischung?

www.weihenstephaner.de

Historischer Fuhrpark. Foto: Bayerische Staatsbrauerei Weihenstephan

Photo: Christian Schranner

Die Bayerische Staatsbrauere Weihenstephan. Foto: Bayerische Staatsbrauerei Weihenstephan

BRAUEREI NEUNSPRINGE:

AUS LEIDENSCHAFT ZUM BIER

Das Oktoberfest in München mag vorbei sein, aber bei der Brauerei Neunspringe wird die Kunst des Bierbrauens das ganze Jahr über mit Liebe und Tradition gepflegt.

Inmitten malerischer Natur, umgeben von Wäldern und Feldern im Herzen Deutschlands, liegt die Brauerei Neunspringe, die ihren Namen den neun Quellen verdankt, die das kristallklare Wasser liefern, aus dem hier seit über 100 Jahren echte Meisterwerke der Braukunst entstehen. „Bei uns gehört die Liebe zum Bier einfach zur Tradition“, erklärt Geschäftsführer und Inhaber Florian Rössing-Schmalbach. „Handwerklich gebrautes Bier ist und bleibt unsere große Leidenschaft.” Und genau diese Liebe schmeckt man in jedem Schluck. Denn das vielfältige Sortiment der Brauerei über-

zeugt durch seinen individuellen Charakter. „Das ist kein Zufall“, fügt Rössing-Schmalbach hinzu. „Für uns ist Bier viel mehr als nur ein Getränk – es ist ein Stück Kultur. Jedes Bier erzählt seine eigene Geschichte: von den Menschen, die es brauen, und von den Zutaten, aus denen es gebraut wird.“

Das Team um den Geschäftsführer achtet darauf, dass mit viel Sorgfalt und besten regionalen Zutaten gebraut wird. „Wir setzen auf regionale Braugerste, die von einem Familienbetrieb in der Nähe schonend zu Braumalz verarbeitet wird“, erklärt der Geschäftsführer. „So bleiben wir unserem hohen Qualitätsanspruch treu, unterstützen die regionale Wirtschaft und bewahren gleichzeitig den einzigartigen Geschmack unserer Biere.“

Besonders stolz ist die Brauerei auf die positive Resonanz ihrer Kundschaft. „Wir freuen uns, dass unsere Biere so gut ankommen. Der Trend geht in den letzten Jahren ganz klar weg von der Massenware hin zu regionalen und hochwertigen Produkten. Die Qualität unserer Biere schmeckt man einfach. Wir

folgen nicht jedem Trend, haben aber unser Sortiment erweitert – darunter auch alkoholfreie Getränke. So bieten wir seit bereits über 60 Jahren eine bunte Auswahl für jeden Geschmack. Und nicht nur unsere Biere, auch unsere Cola hat inzwischen weit über die Landesgrenzen hinaus Kultstatus.“

Die Brauerei lädt herzlich dazu ein, das Gelände zu besichtigen und einen Blick hinter die Kulissen zu werfen. „Wir brauen unsere Biere im offenen Gärverfahren – eine Seltenheit in der Branche“, unterstreicht RössingSchmalbach. „So kann die Hefe in Ruhe arbeiten, und bei einer Besichtigung kann man den Brauprozess nicht nur sehen, sondern auch

riechen. Ein ganz besonderes Erlebnis, das es so in großen Industriebrauereien nicht gibt.“

Das vielfältige Sortiment der Brauerei Neunspringer ist in ganz Deutschland erhältlich – so kann jeder die leckeren Getränke entdecken und genießen.

www.brauerei-neunspringe.de

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TOP 10 SWISS CHOCOLATE BRANDS – SELLING DREAMS

When Juliette Binoche as a travelling chocolatier Viviane bursts into a conservative French village in “Chocolat” and turns the villagers’ lives inside out by means of selling chocolate alone, she innocently states: “I sell dreams, small comforts, sweet harmless temptations to bring down a multitude of saints crashing among the hazels and nougatines”. *

TEXT:

CORNELIA BRELOWSKI

When it comes to Top Swiss Chocolate Brands, you better start with tapping the best local sources in the respective city of your travels: In Zurich you go to Bachmann, Honold or Teuscher; in Geneva you visit Farvager, La Maison Du Rhône, Auer or Stettler –in Basel you check out Confiserie Schiesser, Brändli or Xocolatl (no joke, you are in Switzerland after all). But what will you find?

A born and bred Northener and a chosen Berliner for my entire adult life, I am not exactly a praline connoisseur. But I do know that when it comes to Swiss chocolate, you are well advised to pick up a giant Toblerone at the airport, and come Easter, the golden Lindt chocolate bunnies are the best supermarket chocolate choice for kids. I may have heard of the word “conching”, but I know nothing beyond the fact that it takes time, as do most delicious things. And as for all the sliding into French, please bear with us: It comes with the territory.

For details, I will have to tap into other sources, e. g. a description of artisan manufacturer Favarger in Geneva – worth quoting as the words melt in the mouth as much as the subject: Founded in 1826, this historic chocolate shop has delighted chocolate lovers with its exquisite creations for generations. Among Favarger's must-try products are the Avelines, delicate hazelnut pralines coated in creamy milk chocolate. Another iconic creation is the Nougaline, conceived by the innovative minds of the house in 1932. This exclusive speciality combines three textures in perfect harmony: a creamy praline core, wrapped in a crunchy, nougatine shell, all enveloped in a thin layer of milk chocolate. (www.welo.swiss)

For all the delight, let’s also check some historical facts and certain qualitative and environmental aspects that need factoring into a trustworthy TOP 10 list:

TOP 10 SWISS CHOCOLATE BRANDS – NEW ASPECTS OF VALUE AND A BRIEF HISTORY

While evaluating a chocolate brand today, a major, formerly covert aspect is the origin of the ingredients, most importantly the cocoa bean – which literally can become a bitter reminder of the darker days of colonialism. Today, not only quality and processing, but also sustainability and fair trade certainly add plus points to the evaluation of a brand. Which brings us to a brief history of cocoa trading and chocolate production:

The first cocoa beans are said to have reached Europe in the 1500s. In 1750s, the first Swiss-manufactured chocolate went on sale. Interestingly, most of Switzerland’s chocolate was initially made by French and Italian migrants in the Ticino (Tessin) area. When manufacturers in the Vaud canton started making the treat more popular, the first ‘original’ Swiss chocolate manufacturers set up shop in Vevey, which by the 1806 grew to a number of seven, all situated in the same small town. The Swiss, always with one foot in the dairy business, also refined the idea of adding milk to chocolate, so that the original bitter taste became more and more replaced with the creamy, sweet experience most chocolate lovers crave today.

It must be said though, that sticking to dark chocolate with a higher cocoa percentage has its merits, especially when it comes to

Photo: Morgan Thompson on Unsplash

Photo: Pascal Muller on Unsplash.

heart health and more: The US National Institutes of Health (NIH) for example state: “The cocoa bean contains several minerals necessary for vascular function. Dietary magnesium, copper, potassium, and calcium all reduce risk of hypertension and atherosclerosis.” That, and the mood boost.

TOP 10 SWISS CHOCOLATE BRANDS – WHY ORIGIN MATTERS

Cocoa beans originally stem from the Amazon area and were first cultivated and processed by the Maya people, who even used them as currency. Today, a major part is produced by small farmers in South America, and various African regions such as the Ivory Coast, where an estimated 40% is grown on illegally cleared national park grounds (source: www.worldwildlife.org).

The World Wildlife Fund WWF states that Côte d'Ivoire and Ghana have already lost 90 percent of their forests to cocoa cultivation, among other things. It is estimated that up to 40 percent of the cocoa harvest in Côte d'Ivoire comes from illegally deforested areas, for example from national parks. Plantations are often very old and the majority are cultivated as monocultures.

WWF further states that due to the complex supply chains, chocolate manufacturers often do not even know where their cocoa comes from and cannot ensure that the cocoa does not come from illegally deforested areas.

Therefore, it always makes sense to check for labels such as Cocoa Horizons, Fairtrade, and Rainforest Alliance—or better yet, ask the shop owner or artisan chocolatiers directly about the origin of the processed beans. Many manufacturers nowadays make a point of using fair trade cocoa, e.g., fair trade pioneer Stella Bernrain, who has used fair trade

cocoa since 1991. Runner-up on the good karma list is Barry Callebaut: The manufacturer has invested in the development of sustainable cocoa programs for well over a decade.

Big players like Lindt also have noticed the sign of the times and have jumped on the bandwagon with projects and statements that to some might still be leaving some questions open: “Even though we do not contract with cocoa farmers directly and work through suppliers, we voluntarily go beyond expectations by supporting farmers and their communities through our own sustainability program for cocoa – the Lindt & Sprüngli Farming Program.”

TOP 10 SWISS CHOCOLATE BRANDS – SWISS ARTISAN CHOCOLATIERS

There are of course independent “craft”, or artisan chocolatiers in Switzerland as well, which may be much more aware of their supply chains than others, such as e. g. Tristan

Chocolate Cult at Barutt’s Palace Hotel, St. Moritz. – © swiss-image.ch. Photo Andy Mettler

Photo: Pushpak on Unsplash

Chocolatier (Perroy, Vaud canton), Max Chocolatier (Zurich, Lucerne) and Camille Bloch (Courtelary, canton Bern).

The above-mentioned Favarger in Geneva has local competition in Guillaume Bichet, a renowned artisan chocolatier and pastry chef, as well as La Maison Du Rhône, with traditionally hand-packed chocolates praised by the likes of Winston Churchill, Grace Kelly and J. F. Kennedy.

Then, still in Geneva, there is La Bonbonnière (formerly Confiserie WERDER), blending ancestral know-how with a contemporary approach for an unmatched gourmet experience – vegan or gluten-free if so desired. Here, tradition meets the future.

TOP 10 SWISS CHOCOLATE BRANDS

– THE SUM-UP

Summing up, a top ten list of Swiss Chocolate Brands features many aspects outside of a manufacturer’s net worth.

The secret lies in the recipe, the history, the love given into the process, and the game changer of our times: sustainability and fair

trade efforts. It may help a brand to pride itself with using Swiss milk and sugar only –but after all, it is the cocoa bean which makes the product the luxurious treat that can bring entire villages to a standstill – or to resurrection, depending on perspective.

• MILKBOY

• TOBLERONE

• KÄGI

• SWISS DELICE

• GENÈVE BONNE

• CAILLER

• FREY

• VILLARS

• TAUCHERLI

• LÄDERACH

* (introductory paragraph quote: Joanne Harris, Chocolat)

additional sources: www.iamexpat.ch www.candyretailer.com

known for using premium Alpine milk and sustainable cocoa

its Matterhorn-inspired shape and 100% sustainably sourced cocoa

“cult” waffles, high craftsmanship at a moderate price high quality, sustainable and fair trade practices

artisan craftsmanship and high-quality ingredients

(since 1819), emphasizes sustainability, famous for condensed milk recipes

extensive range of high-quality products, emphasizes sustainability

known for its rich and creamy textures, highquality Swiss milk and sustainable cocoa. artisan and organic production, smallbatches to ensure continuous excellence

fresh artisan quality, sourcing cocoa from Rainforest Alliance-certified farm

TOP 10 SWISS CHOCOLATE BRANDS EXTRA POINTS FOR...

Tourismus Adelboden, swiss-image.ch. Photo: Roger Gruetter

Photo: Merve Aydin on Unsplash

Interview: Arda Saatci

ARDA SAATCI “I LOVE TESTING MY OWN LIMITS”

Ultra-athlete Arda Saatci is pushing the boundaries of what is possible. He recently completed a 3,000-kilometre ultra marathon from Berlin to New York, running 50 kilometres a day. In this interview, he speaks with Discover Germany, Switzerland & Austria about the adventure, his motivation, and more.

INTERVIEW BY NANE STEINHOFF | PHOTOS: PAUL SCHALLER

Discover Germany: How did you become an ultra-athlete? Was this always your goal, or did it happen by chance?

Arda Saatci: “It wasn't always my plan to become an ultra-athlete. Originally, I wanted to be a professional football player and dedicated my life to football. But when that dream shattered at the age of 18, I looked for a new challenge where I could be in control. That’s how I found my way into extreme sports. I love testing my own limits and discovering what my body and mind can achieve. That eventually led me to ultra-marathons.”

Discover Germany: How did you prepare for your ultra-marathon to New York?

Arda Saatci: “The preparation was extremely demanding. I trained both physically and mentally. Besides countless kilometres of running, strength training was crucial to prevent injuries. I also prepared myself mentally for the challenge of running several marathons back-to-back every day. Mental endurance was just as important as the physical training – I had to keep working on staying strong, even when things got tough.”

Discover Germany: What highs and lows did you experience along the way?

Arda Saatci: “There were many highs, but also some lows. The biggest setback was definitely when, after about 750 kilometres at the French border, I had to pause due to a stress fracture in my shin. I needed two months of rehabilitation before I could con-

tinue. That was a tough time because I felt so far from my goal. But there were also incredible moments – like arriving in New York.”

Discover Germany: How did you plan your route?

Arda Saatci: “The route wasn’t completely pre-planned. We decided day by day how far we would run and where we would go. Of course, the starting point was Berlin, and the destination was New York. The path first took me to Porto, from where I flew to Boston and ran the final kilometres to New York. Flexibility was essential since we often had to adapt to the conditions on the ground.”

Discover Germany: How did it feel to arrive in New York?

Arda Saatci: “It was incredible. When I finally arrived at Times Square, it was a moment I’ll never forget. It took a few days for me to truly realise that I had made it. It was very emotional, especially when I saw my mother at the finish line – I shed a few tears.”

Discover Germany: What adventures are you planning next? What do you have in mind and why?

Arda Saatci: “After such an adventure, it’s hard to focus on the next step, but I live by the motto of my sports brand “Day One.” Every day is a new beginning. I’m already planning my next big project, but I’m keeping the details to myself for now. The thrill is

what drives me – I always want to keep going and find out how much more I can achieve.”

Discover Germany: On your way to New York, you had to burn 5,000 to 6,000 calories daily. How did you manage that?

Arda Saatci: “Yes, I burned around 6,000 calories a day, which was a huge challenge. To compensate, I ate large amounts of food –usually in the evenings after running. It wasn’t always easy, but it was essential to restore the energy needed for the next day.”

Discover Germany: How do you train your mental strength? How do you manage to keep going on days when you feel like giving up?

Arda Saatci: “Mental strength is key. I’ve learned to always focus on the bigger goal and tell myself that there’s always a way, even on dark days. I set smaller goals along the way and try to enjoy the moment instead of just thinking about the finish line. It’s a mix of visualization and self-discipline.”

Discover Germany: 'You vs. You' – what mantras or tricks do you have for us to boost our mental strength?

Arda Saatci: “For me, it’s all about the inner dialogue. "You vs. You" means that you are your own greatest competitor. I don’t care what others achieve – I only measure myself against my own performance. When I feel like giving up, I remind myself why I started. Mantras like “There’s always a way” help me stay focused.”

Discover Germany: How do you prepare your body and mind for adventures like these?

Arda Saatci: “Preparation is very intense and includes both physical and mental training. In addition to running, strength training is

essential to prevent injuries. Recovery is also very important – I give my body the time it needs to recover. After the journey, I often do active recovery, like swimming or light strength training, to stay active without overloading my body.”

Discover Germany: How did your social media channels support you during your ultra-marathon?

Arda Saatci: “My social media channels were a big part of the journey. It was important for me to bring my community along and let them experience the highs and lows with me. The positive feedback and support motivated me to keep going, even when things got tough. My team helped me produce content and document the journey.”

Discover Germany: What tips do you have for those who have long dreamed of doing something similar?

Arda Saatci: “My tip is: just start. Set a clear goal and pursue it relentlessly, no matter how impossible it may seem. There will always be obstacles, but if you stay mentally strong and believe in yourself, you can achieve incredible things.”

RESPONSIBLE SURGICAL ART

Where art and medicine meet: Dr Christian Schrank, the renowned specialist in plastic and aesthetic surgery, boasts nearly three decades of comprehensive experience. As an expert in face-neck lifts using dynamic SMAS, he passionately cares for his patients at the esteemed Klinikum Herrsching/Schindlbeck in Herrsching am Ammersee.

In the dynamic world of plastic-aesthetic surgery, it's often the subtle nuances that make all the difference. It's a field where scientific precision meets artistic vision. At the heart of this fusion is Dr Christian Schrank. "I'm fascinated by the incredibly broad spectrum that plastic surgery offers and the opportunity to be creative in aesthetic surgery," says the charismatic surgeon. "At the same time, the unique challenge is that our results should

look natural and non-operated, creating an aesthetically harmonious appearance."

A NATURAL APPEARANCE THROUGH SPECIAL SMAS TECHNIQUE

Dr Schrank's work on the advanced faceneck lift with dynamic SMAS (superficial musculoaponeurotic system) not only pushes the boundaries of what's possible in surgery but also illustrates the expertise behind Photo:

every precise cut and meticulously planned suture. Dr Schrank explains, "The days of skin-tightening facial surgeries should finally be over since the development of the surgical method that involves shortening or lifting the slackened muscle tissue located under the skin, known as SMAS."

There are only a few places in all of Europe that master the face-neck lift with SMAS to perfection. Together with his colleague Dr Yoram Levy, Dr Schrank has refined this method to ensure that the results are not only aesthetically pleasing but also lasting. " You can imagine the SMAS muscle tissue

VERANTWORTUNGSVOLLE CHIRURGISCHE KUNST

Wo Kunst und Medizin sich begegnen: Dr. Christian Schrank, der renommierte Spezialist für Plastische und Ästhetische Chirurgie, kann auf fast drei wertvolle Jahrzehnte Erfahrung zurückblicken. Als Experte für Face-Neck-Lifts mit dynamischem SMAS, kümmert er sich im angesehenen Klinikum Herrsching/Schindlbeck in Herrsching am Ammersee mit großer Empathie um seine Patienten.

In der dynamischen Welt der Plastisch-Ästhetischen Chirurgie sind es oft die feinen Nuancen, die den Unterschied ausmachen. Es ist ein Feld, in dem wissenschaftliche Präzision auf künstlerische Vision trifft. Im Zentrum dieser Fusion ist Dr. Christian Schrank. „Mich begeistern das ungeheuer breite Spektrum, das die Plastische Chirurgie bietet, und die Möglichkeit, in der Ästhetischen Chirurgie kreativ sein zu können", sagt der charismatische Chirurg. „Gleichzeitig besteht die besondere Herausforderung darin, dass unsere Ergebnisse natürlich und unoperiert aussehen sollen und eine ästhetische Harmonie des Erscheinungsbildes ergeben.“

NATÜRLICHKEIT DURCH SPEZIELLE SMAS-TECHNIK

Dr. Schranks Arbeit am hoch entwickelten Face-Neck-Lift mit dem dynamischen SMAS (Superficial Musculoaponeurotic System) hebt nicht nur die Grenzen dessen, was in der Chirurgie möglich ist, sondern veranschaulicht auch die Expertise hinter jedem präzisen Schnitt und jeder sorgfältig geplanten Naht. Dr. Schrank erklärt: „Die Zeiten der hautstraffenden Gesichtsoperationen sollten eigentlich seit der Entwicklung der Operationsmethode mit der Kürzung beziehungsweise Hebung der erschlafften Muskelbindegewebsplatte, die sich unter der Haut befindet, und SMAS genannt wird, endgültig vorbei sein.“

Es gibt in ganz Europa nur wenige Adressen, die das Face-Neck-Lift mit SMAS in Perfektion und Vollendung beherrschen. Zusammen mit seinem Kollegen Dr. Yoram Levy hat Dr. Schrank diese Methode verfeinert, um sicherzustellen, dass die Ergebnisse nicht nur ästhetisch ansprechend, sondern auch dauerhaft sind. „Man kann sich die SMAS-Muskelschicht gut wie ein Trampolin vorstellen, auf welchem man 50 Jahre lang herumspringt. Dann sind die Federn ausgeleiert und die Plane hängt durch“, veran-

schaulicht Dr. Schrank, der auf diesem Gebiet nicht nur in Deutschland führend ist, sondern sich auch mit den weltweit Besten auf Augenhöhe befindet. „Nachdem die ausgeleierten Federn gekürzt und das SMAS angehoben wurde, entsteht ein „neues“, straffes inneres Stützgerüst, welches das Face-Neck-Lift „trägt“. Nun kann die überschüssige Haut - ohne an ihr zie-

hen zu müssen - entfernt werden und dient somit zur ‚Bedeckung‘, ohne gestrafft zu werden und ihr die übrig gebliebene Elastizität zu nehmen. Auf diese Weise entsteht ein natürliches, nicht gestrafftes und unoperiert aussehendes Ergebnis, das die individuelle Ausstrahlung beibehält und wieder auffrischt.“

EXPERTISE AUF HÖCHSTEM NIVEAU

Dr. Schranks herausragende Expertise basiert nicht nur auf seiner umfassenden Ausbildung in der Plastischen Chirurgie, sondern auch auf seiner Arbeit mit Schwerbrandverletzten und seinem tiefen Verständnis für Rekonstruktions-

Dr. Christian Schrank Foto: Markus Gmeiner

as a trampoline on which you jump around for 50 years. Afterwards, the springs are worn-out and the outer tarp sags," illustrates Dr Schrank, who is not only a leader in this field in Germany but also competes with the best in the world. "The excess skin can be removed - without having to pull it - serving as a 'cover,' without being tightened, thus retaining its remaining elasticity. This way, we create a natural, non-tightened, and non-operated-looking result, maintaining and refreshing individual radiance."

EXPERTISE AT THE HIGHEST LEVEL

Dr Schrank's exceptional expertise is based not only on his extensive training in plastic surgery but also on his work treating severe burns and his deep understanding of reconstruction and microsurgery. "Reconstructing

the faces of severely burned patients demands the highest levels of creativity, surgical manual skills, and, finally, the aesthetic sense and understanding of the treating surgeon," he explains.

As a valued speaker and head of the FaceNeck-Lift section of the German Society for Aesthetic Surgery, he is involved in the further training of specialists and gives lectures at renowned congresses worldwide. He also trains the next generation of plastic surgeons in his own department. "The further development of established surgical methods is very close to my heart," the surgeon emphasises.

SAFETY AND TRUST FIRST

For the specialist, a trusting relationship between doctor and patient is key to success.

"In a personal conversation, I try to find out what bothers the patient and affects their quality of life," Dr Schrank says. "From this, I derive an individual treatment plan." Transparency and honesty are his top priorities. "The patient must have a clear idea of what is possible and where the limits are." Only in this way can doctor and patient achieve their goal together.

All treatments are carried out to the highest professional standards, with safety being paramount. Patients also benefit from an environment shaped by human warmth, caring service and absolute discretion. In addition to the face-neck lift, he offers the entire spectrum of face and body shaping measures, including forehead-brow lifts and eyelid lifts.

Overall, Dr Christian Schrank embodies the ideal combination of scientific expertise and artistic sensitivity, making him one of the leading facial surgeons. It is this relentless commitment to excellence and perfection that propels him and his patients to the top of his industry. Talent, passion and empathy not only make Dr Schrank a recognised surgeon in professional circles - he's also highly regarded among patients, as consistently positive JAMEDA reviews confirm.

www.dr-schrank.de/en

Ästhetik am Ammersee Seestrasse 43 82211 Herrsching am Ammersee +49815229150

Dr. Christian Schrank

und Mikrochirurgie. „Die Rekonstruktion von Gesichtern schwerbrandverletzter Patienten stellt höchste Ansprüche an die Kreativität, die chirurgisch-manuellen Fähigkeiten und schließlich den ästhetischen Sinn und das Verständnis des behandelnden Chirurgen", erklärt er.

Als geschätzter Referent und Leiter der Sektion Face-Neck-Lift der Gesellschaft für Ästhetische Chirurgie Deutschlands engagiert er sich in der Weiterbildung von Fachärzten und hält weltweit Vorträge auf renommierten Kongressen. Auch in der eigenen Abteilung bildet er den plastischchirurgischen Nachwuchs aus. „Die Weiterentwicklung etablierter Operationsmethoden liegt mir sehr am Herzen“, betont der Chirurg.

SICHERHEIT UND VERTRAUEN AN ERSTER STELLE

Für den Spezialisten ist die vertrauensvolle Beziehung zwischen Arzt und Patient ein Schlüssel zum Erfolg. „Im persönlichen Gespräch versuche ich herauszufinden, was den Patienten stört und seine Lebensqualität beeinträchtigt“, so Dr. Schrank. „Daraus leite ich ein individuelles Behandlungskonzept ab.“

Transparenz und Ehrlichkeit stehen für ihn dabei an erster Stelle. „Der Patient muss eine klare Vorstellung davon haben, was möglich ist und wo Grenzen liegen.“ Nur so können Arzt und Patient gemeinsam ans Ziel gelangen.

Alle Behandlungen laufen nach höchsten professionellen Maßstäben ab, wobei die Sicherheit immer Priorität hat. Patienten profitieren

zudem von einer Umgebung, die von menschlicher Wärme, fürsorglichem Service und absoluter Diskretion geprägt ist. Angeboten wird neben dem Face-Neck-Lift, das gesamte Spektrum der gesichts- und körperformenden Maßnahmen wie beispielsweise auch das Stirn-Brauen-Lift und Lidstraffungen.

Insgesamt verkörpert Dr. Christian Schrank die ideale Kombination aus wissenschaftlicher Expertise und künstlerischer Sensibilität, die ihn zu einem der führenden Gesichtschirurgen macht. Es ist dieser unermüdliche Einsatz für Exzellenz und Perfektion, der ihn und seine Patienten an die Spitze seiner Branche

bringt. Talent, Leidenschaft und Einfühlungsvermögen machen Dr. Schrank allerdings nicht nur zu einem anerkannten Chirurgen in Fachkreisen - auch unter Patienten steht er hoch im Kurs, was die positiven JAMEDA Bewertungen durchweg bestätigen.

www.dr-schrank.de

Ästhetik am Ammersee Seestrasse 43 82211 Herrsching am Ammersee +49815229150

Patient nach einer Behandlung. Foto: Dr. Christian Schrank

Patient nach einer Behandlung. Foto: Markus Gmeiner

SBS SWISS BUSINESS SCHOOL

- A CHANCE FOR NEW CAREER OPPORTUNITIES

Those who feel stuck in their job, want to advance their career or unlock new job opportunities will find the perfect partner at SBS Swiss Business School.

Looking to advance in your current field or explore new horizons? SBS Swiss Business School in Zurich offers attractive opportunities, including online options that meet the needs of working professionals.

SBS has partnerships with several well-known companies and international universities and offers a wide range of undergraduate, graduate and doctoral programs with a strong focus on business and management. “Our courses,” says Student Recruitment Manager Luiz Paulo Vieira, “are designed to equip students with practical skills that meet the demands of today’s global business environment. Ultimately, our school prepares our students for leadership roles by specifically fostering critical thinking, innovation and a global perspective.”

Next to a select faculty and a curriculum that reflects modern management, sustainability and AI topics, SBS students benefit from the school’s close-knit community, fostered by its collaborative and dynamic atmosphere. “It has been proven that this attractive mix of opportunities best prepares our students to enter competitive industries and secure attractive leadership positions,” emphasises Mr. Vieira.

SBS Swiss Business School degrees are Swiss state and internationally accredited, providing a unique gateway to international leadership opportunities.

www.sbs.edu

NEUE KARRIEREMÖGLICHKEITEN DANK DER SBS SWISS BUSINESS SCHOOL

Wer sich in seinem Job festgefahren fühlt, seine Karriere vorantreiben oder sich neue berufliche Perspektiven eröffnen möchte, findet in der SBS Swiss Business School den idealen Partner.

Sie möchten sich in Ihrem aktuellen Tätigkeitsfeld weiterentwickeln oder neue Horizonte erkunden? Die SBS Swiss Business School in Zürich bietet attraktive Möglichkeiten, darunter auch Online-Kurse, die auf die Bedürfnisse von Berufstätigen zugeschnitten sind.

Die SBS unterhält Partnerschaften mit renommierten Unternehmen und internationalen Universitäten und bietet eine Vielzahl von Bachelor-, Master- und Promotionsprogrammen mit starkem Fokus auf Wirtschaft und Management an. „Unsere Kurse“, so Luiz Paulo Vieira, Student Recruitment Manager, „zielen darauf ab, den Studierenden praktische Fähigkeiten zu vermitteln, die den Anforderungen des heutigen globalen Geschäftsumfelds entsprechen. Letztendlich bereitet unsere Schule unsere Studierenden auf Führungspositionen vor, indem sie kritisches Denken, Innovation und eine globale Perspektive gezielt fördert.”

Neben einer ausgewählten Fakultät und einem Lehrplan, der Themen aus den Bereichen modernes Management, Nachhaltigkeit und KI umfasst, profitieren die Studierenden der SBS von der engen Gemeinschaft der Schule, die durch eine kooperative und dynamische Atmosphäre gefördert wird. „Es hat sich gezeigt, dass dieser attraktive Mix an Möglichkeiten unsere Studierenden perfekt darauf vorbereitet, in wettbewerbsintensiven Branchen Fuß zu fassen und attraktive Führungspositionen zu übernehmen”, betont Herr Vieira.

Die Abschlüsse der SBS Swiss Business School sind staatlich (in der Schweiz) und international anerkannt und bieten einen einzigartigen Zugang zu internationalen Führungspositionen.

L I P Ö D E M K L I N I K A N D E R A L S T E R

“ S c h m e r z f r e i e r u n d l e i c h t e r . S o f ü h l t s i c h D e i n L e b e n o h n e

L i p ö d e m a n . D u r c h k o n s e q u e n t e A b s a u g u n g d e r e r k r a n k t e n

c h e n w i r d a s m ö g l i c h . “

Lipödem Klinik an der Alster

Mittelweg 18, 20148 Hamburg

040/416 22 819

www.lipödem.hamburg

lipoedemklinikhamburg

r. Dr. Bernd Klesper

PANORAMA WITH LLAMA – FURRY AND BEAUTIFUL TREKKING TOURS IN EAST TYROL

In the Andes, llamas have always served as pack animals and suppliers of wool. Increasingly, they also conquer the hearts of Alpine hikers - and not just because they carry their luggage. The fluffy four-legged friends also provide plenty of happiness hormones.

TEXT & PHOTOS: NORBERT EISELE-HEIN I TRANSLATION: NANE STEINHOFF

Speed dating before a two-day mountain hike? What a wonderfully unusual scene: ten llama stallions curiously approach ten people who want to trek - and vice versa. At the Moosalm in the Hochstein ski area in East Tyrol, the partners are scanned before the tour. Fuzzy four-legged friends with big, longlashed eyes compete with slightly nervous two-legged friends. They carefully take a few steps towards each other, hands with hay are held out, nostrils with fine hairs sniff it, the llamas begin to carefully pluck at it - and a few minutes later the first strokes of petting can be given. “It's so nice to see,” says Martin Lobenwein happily, “how the teams of two almost always find each other by themselves.” The mountain hiking guide from Iselsberg owns the Dolomite llama herd, which currently has ten stallions and seven mares. All year round he sets off with his “team of men” on entertaining alpine trekking experiences including free luggage service. And tomorrow morning we're supposed to go by caravan from the Hochsteinhütte to Evil Weibele. The 2,521-metre-high peak in the Villgrater Mountains lies directly opposite the mighty Lienz Dolomites.

WARNING – FLYING SPIT

Before we head to the starting point on Lienz's local mountain, the Hochstein, Carlos, El Niño, Calimero, Camino, Leo and Gonzales - all so-called "classic llamas", plus the medium llamas Samy, Chili and Luigi - land in the large trailer. Also, there is Phoenix, the only wooly llama. They were all born in Austria and gradually ended up with Martin and his family. What do wooly, medium and classic mean? Nothing other than their varying degrees of wool: Wooly has a particularly

dense, long coat over large parts of the forehead and legs.

Now, as the trailer gets unloaded, the Lama's internal hierarchy gets mixed up - an event that occasionally leads to spats. That's why just-eaten grains and greenish stomach contents fly horizontally through the air. Just don't stand in the way! But Martin says reassuringly: “Llamas almost never spit on people!”

To saddle up, blankets and small frames land on the llama backs to which bags for the backpacks are attached. It's just a good thing that the weekend luggage stays well below the maximum weight of 50 kilos that the "horse of the poor" in South America still has to carry today.

Before the Dolomites trek sets off towards the tree line, the order is quickly determined: Martin leads the trek with the 8-year-old, experienced gelding Samy. After him, the brown cuddly bear Chili is assigned, followed by Carlos and the shy Gonzales. The younger lamas like Phoenix and Luigi are at the bottom. “The llamero, that’s the name of the llama leader –

keeps the leash loose,” is the order, “he walks slightly in front of the llama and the distance to the llama in front is kept at a distance of one to two meters!”

OFF TO THE SUMMIT – WITH GURGLING SONGS

Shortly after we set off, I notice it’s not that easy! Only after a few kilometres does something like smooth, even walking emerge. Until then, the llamas often stop suddenly - find delicious herbal snacks on the trail or simply have to do their business. So the hand is raised and the entire trek is audibly shouted: “Stooop, Carlos has to go!” While the 17-yearold stallion conjures a stream onto the trail, all the following llamas and llameros come to a stop. And because “doing business” takes time and has a contagious effect on other animals, two llamas call out ten meters further back, “Chili has to go too,” one of the other participants shouts. This leaves plenty of time to relax on this llama adventure in

the East Tyrolean Dolomites around sunny Lienz – to take in the panorama, to enjoy the snow-covered three-thousanders and to get used to each other.

Barely audible, it then goes quietly uphill step by step in the flow - until strange, enchanting singing sounds emerge: gentle gurgling noises roll up from deep down through the long llama neck. Carlos doesn't even open his mouth: "Groommmm," he chuckles, “urgloooommm.” It's meditative, you'd love to be out and about like that for hours - and scratch your soft singer's ears every now and then. But the reserved animals don't like that at all: their heads are taboo, as is their backside. But there is enough space in between for pets. Below the summit cross at just over 2,000 metres, the setting evening sun turns the bright limestone walls of the Lienz Dolomites into glowing red - it has become quiet. Even the llamas seem to like this mountain magic.

YOU MIGHT JUST FALL IN LOVE

“Have you ever sniffed the llama fur?” Martin now asks the group. Apart from a subtle earthy scent, there isn't much else to smell. So, I sniff deeper, and then I notice that Carlos smells quite pleasant, even a little like herbs. “The fur is particularly suitable for allergy sufferers,” explains Martin, “because it does not contain wool grease on the surface of the hair and is odourless.” Shearing is always done at the beginning of May, and the Martin’s family sells quilts and comfortable shoe insoles made from llama wool at home.

Demand is high and their llama products always sell out in no time.

After such sensory excursions, the Hochsteinhütte is finally reached at dusk. Backpacks and blankets are quickly unsaddled and less than two minutes later, the Andean animals are happily grazing around the hut. “Look at the llama pasture,” urges Martin the next morning. It shows neither footprints nor scars in the grass in the way that cows usually would leave behind on the mountain pastures. At breakfast we learn that these frugal

landscapers do not leave any damage to trees and bushes and, like their “humped” relatives – camels, dromedaries and Bactrian camels –walk on soft callused soles. With this and their two toes, llamas can move almost silently and safely on rocky surfaces and even in the snow.

Sounds reassuring, because this morning they're going up the 500 metres to the Böse Weibele. On this journey, the pee stops are welcome breaks on the increasingly steep path to the summit, which Carlos and the others sometimes overcome with small jumps from boulder to boulder. Three hours later, Martin stands on the narrow summit with three llamas and his guests. Passing hikers can't believe their eyes. We even ignore the breathtakingly beautiful panorama with the high Glockner and Venediger Group with their ice-crowned heads, with the magnificent mountain world of the main Alpine ridge, the South Tyrolean Dolomites with the Drei Zinnen and the Isel and Draut valleys at our feet.

Instead, there are cuddles, selfies with llamas and curious questions - Martin knows that and is always available to answer questions in a friendly manner. “Don’t look too deeply into the animals’ eyes,” he jokingly repeats a saying from the Quichua, a mountain tribe from the Andes. “I, too, fell in love with these wonderful animals.”

More information:

Llama trekking with Martin Lobenwein (www.dolomitenlama.at, Tel. 0043-6644312729, e-mail martin.lobenwein.ml@ gmail.com) around/from Lienz/Osttirol includes one-hour introductory tours and eight-day main Alpine ridge crossings. The offer ranges from a simple walk to year-round alpine activities with overnight stays in camps and inns for one to 10 participants. The two-day hike from BösesWeibele costs around 140 euros, including food and overnight accommodation, depending on the number of participants.

BMW MUSEUM – FROM DESIGN TO TECHNOLOGY

More than 125 original exhibits from over 100 years of BMW history: The BMW Museum in Munich leaves nothing to be desired for car and design enthusiasts of all ages, from special exhibitions to family activities, in a unique architectural setting.

The BMW Museum is one of the oldest automobile museums in Germany and was opened in 1973 in close vicinity to the BMW Tower to immerse visitors in the history, innovations and vehicles of the BMW brand. On a total of 5,000 square meters, the museum houses a permanent exhibition, divided into seven exhibition houses, which illustrate the development of the company and its brand, while the so-called “museum bowl” shows temporary exhibitions. The special exhibition “100 years BMW Motorrad” is currently on display in the ‘rotunda’, with more than 55 motorcycle models from 10 decades: Until the end of 2024, visitors can immerse themselves in the exciting history of BMW motorcycles in a themed trail of around 15 stations and marvel at special machines such as Schorsch Meier's BMW R 255 Kompressor, or the brand's very first motorcycle, the BMW R 32.

THE THEME HOUSES – FROM HISTORY TO BRAND DESIGN

The museum is divided into theme houses that cover the areas of design, company, motorcycles, technology, motorsport, model series and, last but not least, the BMW brand

itself. Take your time to wander through the various rooms and experience all the components that together create the fascination of this unique brand.

The “House of Motorsport”, for example, outlines BMW's racing history. It shows the entire range of technical possibilities that were realized with the greatest effort and gives a glimpse into the unforgettable sporting successes of BMW with many special vehicles, such as the BMW touring cars or the BMW 328 Mille Miglia Touring Coupé.

Another highlight of the BMW Museum is the famous BMW Art Cars: for almost 50 years now, the Art Cars have stood for the combination of art and BMW models. Big names

from the art world such as Andy Warhol, Roy Lichtenstein and Jeff Koons have each given car icons such as the BMW Z1 or the BMW M1 their own unmistakable artistic touch. Various exhibits from the collection, which now comprises 20 vehicles, can be admired at changing intervals in the BMW Museum's Art Car Gallery.

FAMILY SUNDAY AND JUNIOR MUSEUM

The BMW Museum not only wants to move hearts but also inspire minds. This is another reason why information and education play such an important role at the BMW Museum. Throughout the year and especially during school vacations, the BMW Junior Museum offers children a creative and comprehensive range of workshops in which young car fans can playfully discover and explore the topics of mobility, design and sustainability. The museum has a very special surprise in store for birthday children: Young visitors can celebrate their birthday with a workshop at the BMW Museum, making their day an unforgettable experience. Several times a year, the BMW Museum also organizes a Family Sunday: With changing themes, the museum invites visitors to explore the various exhibition areas and learn about the history of the brand in a playful way. The BMW Museum is looking forward to your visit!

www.bmw-museum.com

House of Motorsports.

House of Motorcycle.

Anniversary exhibition ‘100 Years BMW Motorrad’.

BMW Junior Museum.

Elvis Presley’s BMW.

BMW roadster exhibition.

BMW Museum, Rotunda.

BMW MUSEUM – DESIGN TRIFFT TECHNOLOGIE

Mehr als 125 Originalexponate aus über 100 Jahren BMW Historie: Das BMW Museum in München lässt für Auto-, Technologie- und Design-Enthusiasten jeden Alters keinerlei Wünsche offen, und lockt mit wechselnder Sonderausstellung bis hin zu Familienangeboten inmitten eindrucksvoller Architektur.

Das BMW Museum ist eines der ältesten Automobilmuseen in Deutschland und wurde 1973 angrenzend an das BMW Hochhaus eröffnet, um Besuchende in die Geschichte, Innovationen und Fahrzeuge der Marke BMW eintauchen zu lassen. Auf insgesamt 5.000 Quadratmetern beherbergt das Museum eine Dauerausstellung, aufgeteilt in sieben Ausstellungshäuser, die die Entwicklung des Unternehmens und seiner Marke illustrieren, während die sogenannte „Museumsschüssel“ Wechselausstellungen zeigt. Aktuell ist in der Rotunde die Jubiläumsausstellung „100 Jahre BMW Motorrad“ mit mehr als 55 Motorradmodellen aus 10 Jahrzehnten zu sehen. Besuchende können noch bis Ende 2024 in einem Themenparcours aus rund 15 Stationen in die spannende Geschichte der BMW Motorräder eintauchen und unter anderem besondere Maschinen wie Schorsch Meiers BMW R 255 Kompressor oder das erste Motorrad der Marke, die BMW R 32 bestaunen.

DIE THEMENHÄUSER – VON DER UNTERNEHMENSGESCHICHTE BIS ZUM MARKENDESIGN

Das Museum ist in Themenhäuser unterteilt,

die die Bereiche Gestaltung, Unternehmen, Motorrad, Technik, Motorsport, Baureihen und nicht zuletzt die Marke BMW selbst abdecken. Nehmen Sie sich Zeit, um durch die verschiedenen Räume zu wandern und dabei alle Komponenten zu erleben, die gemeinsam die Faszination der einzigartigen Marke ausmachen.

Das „Haus des Motorsports“ etwa skizziert die Rennsportgeschichte von BMW. Es zeigt die gesamte Bandbreite der technischen Möglichkeiten, die mit höchstem Aufwand realisiert wurden und lässt mit vielen besonderen Fahrzeugen, wie den BMW Tourenwagen oder dem BMW 328 Mille Miglia Touring Coupé in die unvergessenen sportlichen Erfolge von BMW blicken.

Ein weiteres Highlight des BMW Museum sind die berühmten BMW Art Cars: Seit inzwischen fast 50 Jahren stehen die Art Cars für die Verbindung von Kunst und BMW Modellen. Große Namen aus der Kunstwelt wie Andy Warhol, Roy Lichtenstein und Jeff Koons haben Auto-Ikonen, wie dem BMW Z1 oder dem BMW M1 jeweils eine eigene, unverwechselbare künstlerische Note gegeben. In wechselnden

Abständen kann stets ein Exponat aus der Sammlung, die inzwischen 20 Fahrzeuge umfasst, im BMW Museum auf der Art Car Galerie bestaunt werden.

FAMILIENSONNTAG UND JUNIOR MUSEUM

Das BMW Museum will nicht nur Herzen bewegen sondern auch den Verstand beflügeln. Auch deswegen spielen Information und Bildung im BMW Museum eine große Rolle. Im BMW Junior Museum gibt es für Kinder das ganze Jahr über und auch speziell in den Schulferien ein kreatives und umfassendes Angebot von Workshops, in denen junge Autofans spielerisch die Themen Mobilität, Design und Nachhaltigkeit entdecken und erforschen können. Für Geburtstagskinder hält das Museum eine ganz besondere Überraschung bereit:

Junge Besucher können ihren Geburtstag mit einem Workshop im BMW Museum feiern und machen ihren Tag so zu einem unvergesslichen Erlebnis. Mehrmals im Jahr veranstaltet das BMW Museum zudem einen Familiensonntag: Unter wechselnden Themen lädt das Museum ein, die verschiedenen Ausstellungsbereiche zu erforschen und sich dabei spielerisch mit der Geschichte der Marke auseinanderzusetzen. Das BMW Museum freut sich auf ihren Besuch!

www.bmw-museum.com

BMW 3 /15 PS im Raum „Erste Schritte“.

BMW Museum von außen mit Blick auf die Museumsschüssel.

FERNE WELTEN ENTDECKEN - REISEERLEBNISSE IN ÜBER 130 LÄNDERN WELTWEIT

Im neuen Jahresprogramm für 2025 bietet der Spezialveranstalter IKARUS TOURS neben vielen klassischen Rundreisezielen auch eine Vielzahl an Entdeckerreisen in exotische, weniger nachgefragte Destinationen an.

Einzigartige kulturelle Sehenswürdigkeiten, atemberaubende Naturjuwelen und wunderbare Landschaftsszenerien lassen sich in vielen Ländern unserer Erde entdecken. Mit der Organisation von Reisen in diese Destinationen, dem Näherbringen dieser Attraktionen an eine interessierte Reisekundschaft und der eindrucksvollen Begegnung mit den Menschen im Zielgebiet beschäftigt sich der Spezialveranstalter IKARUS TOURS bereits seit 1970 intensiv. Mehr als 40 Mitarbeiterinnen und Mitarbeiter sind in der Firmenzentrale im hessischen Königstein mit der Planung und Durchführung von Studien- und Erlebnisrundreisen, dem Einkauf verschiedenster Leistungen, der Kundenberatung und dem Verkauf eines umfassenden Reiseangebots beschäftigt und haben das Unternehmen bereits vor vielen Jahren

zu einem der renommiertesten KulturreiseVeranstalter Deutschlands geführt.

So finden Gäste aus Deutschland, Österreich und der Schweiz, die gerne in kleiner Reisegruppe mit maximal 16 Teilnehmern unterwegs sein möchten, bei IKARUS TOURS eine

Vielfalt aus über 300 Rundreiseangeboten im umfassenden Programm FERNE WELTEN. Aber auch Liebhaber von Individualreisen, die vom Veranstalter maßgeschneidert ausgearbeitet werden, können sich über eine ansprechende Auswahl an Privatreisen für zwei Personen in alle Kontinente aus dem Programm AUF MEINE TOUR freuen.

Unter den etwa 130 angebotenen Ländern weltweit finden sich im neuen Jahresprogramm 2025 natürlich alle gängigen Reiseziele, die Erlebnishungrige weltweit vorrangig auf ihrer ‚Bucket List‘ haben. Eine stattliche Anzahl an Reisen des Veranstalters führt darüber hinaus aber auch in weniger frequentierte, durchaus exotische Länder und Regionen unserer Erde. So lassen sich in Asien zum Beispiel Pakistan, Bhutan, PapuaNeuguinea, Neukaledonien und verschiedene andere Inseln des Südpazifiks entdecken, in Afrika bieten sich Touren nach Algerien, Togo, Benin, Kamerun und Ghana als

Reiseziele an. Auf dem amerikanischen Kontinent stehen neben Nicaragua, Honduras, Panamá, Suriname und Französisch-Guyana beispielsweise auch Reisen nach Paraguay und Uruguay im Programm des Veranstalters. In Europa können Ziele wie Moldawien, Rumänien, Nordmazedonien, Serbien oder die Pyrenäen mit IKARUS TOURS bereist werden.

Bei den klassischen Studien- und Erlebnisreisen von IKARUS TOURS in die Ferne erfreuen sich derzeit Länder wie China, Japan und Indien, Vietnam und Laos, das Sultanat Oman und das Königreich Saudi-Arabien, Marokko und Madagaskar, Mexiko, Costa Rica, Kolumbien und Brasilien einer hohen Nachfrage. Innerhalb Europas sind Island und Grönland, Italien, Griechenland, verschiedene Balkanländer und die Kaukasusrepubliken Georgien und Armenien gut nachgefragt.

Aufregend und faszinierend zugleich zeigen sich auch verschiedene ExpeditionsSeereisen, die IKARUS TOURS schwerpunktmäßig in die polaren Regionen unserer Erde anbietet, also vorzugsweise in die Natur- und Landschaftsparadiese Spitzbergen, Grönland, Kanada, Antarktis, Südgeorgien und

Beratung und Buchung in guten Reisebüros oder bei

IKARUS TOURS GmbH ∙ Am Kaltenborn

49-51 ∙ 61462 Königstein

Tel. +49 6174 290 20 ∙ info@ikarus.com ∙ www.ikarus.com

Büro Zürich: Tel. +41 (0)44 211 88 33 ∙ info@ikarus-tours.ch

Falkland Inseln. Dabei sind die naturbegeisterten, aktiven Reisegäste zumeist auf kleinen Schiffen mit maximal 110 Reisegästen und einem fantastischen Expeditions-Team in unmittelbarer Sichtweite zu kalbenden Gletschern, Eisbergen und einer großartigen Tier- und Pflanzenwelt unterwegs.

Für zahlreiche Rundreiseprogramme bietet sich eine Frühbucherermäßigung an, sofern die Buchung mindestens fünf Monate vor Abreise erfolgt.

www.ikarus.com

Das neue Programm FERNE WELTEN 2025 kann unter www.ikarus.com ausführlich studiert und gebucht werden. Kataloge können per E-Mail: discover@ ikarus.com oder unter www.ikarus.com/ katalogbestellung kostenfrei bestellt werden. Unter www.ikarus.com/newsletter kann zudem der E-Mail-Newsletter abonniert werden.

FAMILY RESORT BUCHAU: TIMEOUT AT LAKE ACHENSEE

Picturesquely situated, Tirolean family resort Buchau offers a timeout for the whole family, with relaxing amenities for the adults and much action and fun for the little ones.

While the parents relax in say the Wellness Oasis or the infinity pool, children’s activities for different age groups range from baby swimming, riding courses, ski courses, climbing and high rope courses through to archery, water sports and soccer school. No wonder guests who used to come here for holidays as kids, tend to return once they’ve started their own family.

In addition to a variety of activities and amenities, a brand-new indoor pool with comfortable relaxation islands and bunks provides an ideal retreat in cold weather. The highlights of the pool area for children are the waterworks, the dwarf pool and the new triple slide. The Buchau resort offers professional childcare 7 days a week, so that parents

can unwind with saunas, massages and cosmetics. Guests can now also find their own way to absolute relaxation and new energy In the new yoga and movement room, nourishing the perfect symbiosis of mind, body and soul.

NEW INFINITY POOL

How about a relaxing swim in the blue expanse of the new Infinity Pool while the kids enjoy a round of pony riding?

With a view of the turquoise-green waters of Lake Achensee and the majestic peaks of the Rofan and Karwendel mountains, you can now virtually swim towards infinity. After some well-deserved me-time, relax on comfortable loungers on the unique, windprotected roof-top sun deck.

A tip for your next summer holidays: On the shores of Lake Achensee, you will have even more space to swim, sunbathe and enjoy yourself in future. The private beach with a sunbathing lawn is already a feel-good place, but after the generous extension, it will offer even more space for carefree downtime during the summer months.

WARM WATERS AND SNOW PLAYGROUND

In cold weather, treat yourself to a new dimension of bathing pleasure In the warm waters of the indoor pool, while the little ones learn to swim carefree and splash around with new friends.

The new, cosy relaxation bunks offer plenty of space to relax and recharge your batteries. Retreat and enjoy an extra dose of privacy thanks to the light wood partitions. Whether with a magazine, your loved ones

Infinity Pool. Photo: © buchau.com

FAMILIENRESORT BUCHAU: AUSZEIT AM ACHENSEE

Das malerisch gelegene Tiroler Familienresort Buchau bietet eine Auszeit für die ganze Familie, mit Tiefenentspannunng für die Erwachsenen und viel Action und Spaß für die Kleinen.

Während die Eltern in der Wellness-Oase oder im Infinity-Pool abtauchen, reicht die Palette der Kinderaktivitäten für verschiedene Altersgruppen vom Babyschwimmen über Reit- und Skikurse, Kletter- und Hochseilgärten bis hin zum Bogenschießen, Wassersport und der Fußballschule. Kein Wunder, dass Gäste, die schon als Kinder hier Urlaub gemacht haben, gerne mit ihrer eigenen Familie wiederkommen.

Neben der Vielzahl von Aktivitäten und Annehmlichkeiten bietet der neue Indoorpool mit gemütlichen Ruheinseln und Kojen einen idealen Rückzugsort bei kaltem Wetter. Die Highlights für Kinder sind die Wasserspiele, das Plantschbecken und die neue Triple Slide Kinderrutsche.

Das Buchau Resort bietet an 7 Tagen in der Woche professionelle Kinderbetreuung, damit die Eltern bei Sauna, Massage und Kosmetik vollends entspannen können. Im neuen Yogaund Bewegungsraum können die Gäste nun zudem ihren eigenen Weg zu absoluter Entspannung und neuer Energie finden – für eine perfekte Symbiose von Körper, Geist und Seele.

INFINITY POOL

Wie wäre es mit einem entspannenden Bad in den blauen Weiten des neuen Infinity Pools, während die Kinder eine Runde Ponyreiten genießen? Mit Blick auf das türkisgrüne Wasser des Achensees und die majestätischen Gipfel des Rofan- und Karwendelgebirges schwimmt

man nun quasi in die Unendlichkeit. Nach einer wohlverdienten Auszeit können die Gäste auf der einzigartigen, windgeschützten Dachterrasse auf bequemen Liegen entspannen.

Hier schon einmal ein Tipp für den nächsten Sommerurlaub: Am Ufer des Achensees haben Gäste künftig noch mehr Platz zum Schwimmen, Sonnen und Genießen. Der Privatstrand mit Liegewiese ist schon jetzt ein Wohlfühlort, doch nach einer großzügigen Erweiterung wird er im Sommer noch mehr Platz für unbeschwerte Entspannung bieten.

INDOORPOOL UND SCHNEESPIELPLATZ: AKTIVITÄT UND ENTSPANNUNG ZUR WINTERZEIT

Gönnen Sie sich bei kaltem Wetter eine neue Dimension des Badevergnügens im warmen Wasser des Indoorpools, während die Kleinen unbeschwert schwimmen lernen und mit neuen Freunden planschen. Die neuen, gemütlichen Ruhekojen bieten viel Platz zum Entspannen und Kraft tanken. Ziehen Sie sich zurück und genießen Sie dank der neuen hellen Holztrennwände eine Extraportion Privatsphäre. Ob mit einer Zeitschrift, Ihren Liebsten oder ganz bewusst allein mit Ihren Gedanken – gönnen Sie sich das Nichtstun und tauchen Sie ein in die pure Entspannung.

Terrasse. Photo: © buchau.com

Reithalle.Photo: © buchau.com

or deliberately alone with your thoughts, treat yourself to doing nothing and immerse yourself in pure relaxation.

For kids however, there are few things more exciting than hurtling down the water. Therefore, the triple slide offers triple the fun for the youngest guests. Whether it's a steep descent, a leisurely ride down the wide slide or a sweeping ride down the wave-shaped slide, children's hearts will beat faster here.

For more activity, there is pony riding in the 'Pferdeglück' hall, FREDS SWIM ACADEMY, the outdoor adventure world with a playground and a pirate ship included, or the indoor one with a climbing & bouldering hall, a soft play area, and much more.

If the kids need some outdoor fun in snowy weather, it's “On your skis, get set, go!” for young skiers on the snow playground. The Rofan family ski area offers plenty of fun with ‘nappy ski courses’ from 2.5 years and children's beginner courses from 4 years up, with Penguin Bobo cheering them on.

NEW SUITES AND MODERN COMFORT ROOMS

At the Buchau family resort, many corners and rooms have the potential to become a favourite place, especially the modern rooms, soon to be joined by new suites: Enjoy relaxation and exclusive living comfort in the 'Kuschel Suite Deluxe, Penthouse Suite or Penthouse Suite Deluxe' and be one of the first to make unforgettable memories at the Buchau resort.

www.buchau.com

Kuschel-Suite Deluxe. Photo: © buchau.com

Penthouse Suite. Photo: © buchau.com

Restaurant. Photo: © Hannes Unterhauser

Bouldering Hall. Photo: © buchau.com

Für Kinder gibt es allerdings nur wenige Dinge, die schöner sind, als im Wasser herumzutollen. Deshalb bietet die neue Triple Slide Kinderrutsche nun dreifachen Spaß für die jüngsten Gäste, ob steile Abfahrt, gemächliches Trudeln auf der Breitrutsche oder eine schwungvolle Fahrt auf der Wellenrutsche –hier schlagen Kinderherzen höher.

Für noch mehr Spaß und Bewegung sorgen das Ponyreiten in der Pferdeglück-Halle, die FREDS SWIM ACADEMY, die Outdoor-Abenteuerwelt mit Spielplatz und Piratenschiff oder die Indoor-Abenteuerwelt, mit Kletter- und Boulderhalle, Softplaybereich und vielem mehr.

Und im Winter heißt es für die kleinen Skifahrer auf der Schneespielwiese „Auf die Brettl, fertig, los!“. Das Familienskigebiet Rofan bietet jede Menge Spaß, mit Windel-Wedel-Skikursen ab 2,5 Jahren und Anfänger-Skikursen ab 4 Jahren aufwärts, mit tatkräftiger Unterstützung von Pinguin Bobo.

NEUE SUITEN UND MODERNE KOMFORTZIMMER

Im Familienresort Buchau haben viele Orte und Zimmer das Potenzial, ein zukünftiger

Lieblingsplatz zu werden. Vor allem gilt dies für die neuen, mit modernstem Komfort ausgestatteten Zimmer, zu denen sich bald auch neue Suiten gesellen: Genießen Sie Entspannung und exklusiven Wohnkomfort etwa in

der Kuschel Suite Deluxe, Penthouse Suite oder Penthouse Suite Deluxe – für neue, unvergessliche Urlaubs-Erinnerungen.

www.buchau.com

Indoor Pool mit Entspannungs-Nischen. Photo: © buchau.com

Triple Slide. Photo: © Brandnamic

VÖLKLINGEN IRONWORKS – WHERE HISTORY INSPIRES ART

The World Heritage Völklinger Hütte is the only fully preserved ironworks from the heyday of industrialisation, as well as a much-regarded venue for cultural events and exhibitions of all kinds.

Meanwhile, culture is joined by nature: the paradise that has emerged from the former “hell” of the coking plant now fascinates visitors with its diverse flora and fauna reclaiming parts of the site, much like urban art reclaims the streets. Numerous halls, open spaces and a maze of pipe systems offer a unique and fascinating world to discover, as well as presenting an inspiring backdrop for international exhibitions and art events.

URBAN ART BIENNALE 2024

Running until November 11th, the Urban Art Biennale is one of the world’s largest exhibitions of this ‘anarchic’ form of art inspired by urban street culture. Departing from a conventional white cube aesthetic, the entire site of the Völklingen Ironworks is given over to a fruitful dialogue with an art form that has evolved from street art or graffiti. Established in 2011, the 2024 edition focuses on political works as well as participatory urban art projects.

THE TRUE SIZE OF AFRICA

From November 9th, 2024 running through to August 17th, 2025, the exhibition THE TRUE

SIZE OF AFRICA tests approaches to the giant continent that break down both prejudices and stereotypes by means of cultural history and contemporary art – featuring a multitude of groundbreaking, international artists whose work relates to this continent and its diaspora.

RÉMY MARKOWITSCH: WE ALL (EXCEPT THE OTHERS)

Until September 28th 2025, visit the suspension monorail repair with the installation WE ALL (Except the Others) by Swiss artist Rémy Markowitsch. who illuminates and condenses key themes such as contamination of nature and culture, forced labour and more of the darker aspects around controversial industrial giant Hermann Röchling and his legacy.

X-RAY (9.11.2025 – 16.8.2026)

The discovery of X-rays was a scientific and technological sensation. At the time, it was the most spectacular result of an ongoing quest, pursued around 1900, to uncover that which remains invisible to the human eye. This is an idea that has continued to inspire

artists to this day – the belief that individual (or, indeed, supra-individual) identity is only revealed beneath the surface. On show in the atmospheric Blower Hall, this fascinating exhibition presents a wide variety of X-ray systems, ranging from the Pedoscope shoe fitter to X-ray satellite technology, as well as an exploration of the creative uses of X-rays in art, advertising, fashion and cinema – Catwalk meets X-ray chapel. X-RAY is the first ever exhibition dedicated to the phenomenon of X-rays and the wide-ranging cultural significance of X-ray vision.

Don’t miss out!

www.voelklinger-huette.org

KingKong. Photo: Ralf Beil, Weltkulturerbe Völklinger Hütte

Blower. Photo: Tom Gundelwein, Weltkulturerbe Völklinger Hütte

View of inclined ore lift. Photo: Günther Bayerl, Weltkulturerbe Völklinger Hütte

The illuminated Völklingen Ironworks. Photo: Oliver Dietze, Weltkulturerbe Völklinger Hütte

HISTORIC

CHARM MEETS MODERN LUXURY

Is it possible to transform a former 19th-century prison into a design hotel flooded with light? The answer is a resounding yes. Hotel Liberty masterfully blends historic architecture with contemporary luxury, offering stylish rooms and exceptional dining in a setting like no other.

Situated in Offenburg, at the gateway to the Black Forest, Hotel Liberty impressively combines history with modern style. Once a 19th-century prison, this listed building has been transformed into an elegant boutique hotel. The 38 luxurious rooms and suites offer an exquisite mix of industrial features and sophisticated design, bathed in natural light and crafted from premium materials.

The culinary highlight of the hotel is the Wasser & Brot restaurant, where fresh, locally sourced ingredients are grilled over an open fire. Meanwhile, the STRAFBAR serves up an array of exceptional cocktails, inspired by the entire LIBERTY team, alongside vintage classics like the Cosmopolitan. And for those who prefer a fine whisky or rum, you’ll find plenty to indulge in here too.

The hotel's location is also excellent: within minutes, guests can reach the

picturesque vineyards of the Black Forest or explore the Alsace region. Offenburg's central position and proximity to three international airports make it an ideal base for exploring the area.

At Hotel Liberty, guests can expect luxurious comfort, outstanding cuisine and an authentic atmosphere - the perfect retreat for relaxation and indulgence.

HISTORISCHER CHARME TRIFFT MODERNEN LUXUS

Kann man aus einem ehemaligen Gefängnis aus dem 19. Jahrhundert ein lichtdurchflutetes Design Hotel machen? Die Antwort ist ein klares ja. Hotel Liberty bietet mit stilvollen Zimmern und erstklassiger Kulinarik die perfekte Mischung aus einzigartiger, historischer Architektur und modernem Design.

Im badischen Offenburg, am Tor zum Schwarzwald, vereint das Hotel Liberty eindrucksvoll Geschichte und zeitgenössischen Stil. Einst ein Gefängnis aus dem 19. Jahrhundert, wurde das denkmalgeschützte Gebäude zu einem eleganten Boutique-Hotel umgebaut. Die 38 luxuriösen Zimmer und Suiten bieten eine gelungene Mischung aus industriellen Elementen und edlem Design, geprägt von viel Tageslicht und hochwertigen Materialien.

Das kulinarische Highlight des Hotels ist das Restaurant Wasser & Brot, das mit frischen, regionalen Zutaten am offenen Feuer grillt. Daneben bietet die STRAFBAR außergewöhnliche Cocktails, inspiriert vom ganzen LIBERTY-Team, bis hin zu Vintage-Drinks wie zum Beispiel einem Cosmopolitan. Wer gerne einen edlen Whiskey oder Rum genießen möchte, kommt hier auch nicht zu kurz.

Auch die Lage des Hotels ist exzellent: In nur wenigen Minuten erreicht man die malerischen Weinberge des Schwarzwalds oder das Elsass. Offenburgs zentrale Lage und die Nähe zu drei internationalen Flughäfen machen es zu einem idealen Ausgangspunkt für Entdeckungsreisen.

Im Hotel Liberty können sich Gäste auf luxuriösen Komfort, exzellente Küche und authentisches Ambiente freuen - ein perfekter Rückzugsort für Genuss und Erholung.

The hotel exterior. Hallway.

“THE MOTHER OF MONTE CARLO” - WELCOME TO THE GRAND CASINO BAD HOMBURG

Step into one of Europe’s oldest and most iconic casinos, where over 180 years of history meet modern luxury. From thrilling games to exquisite dining, Casino Bad Homburg offers an unforgettable experience for every visitor.

With over 180 years of history, Casino Bad Homburg stands as one of Europe’s most prestigious and successful casinos. Nestled in the picturesque spa town of Bad Homburg, which boasts a rich history dating back over a millennium, the casino offers a unique blend of excitement, fine dining, and sophisticated entertainment – and is one of Germany’s top five! Founded in 1841 by the twin brothers François and Louis Blanc, Casino Bad Homburg is proud of its title as the ‘Mother of Monte Carlo’, as the Blanc brothers later went on to establish the worldfamous Monte Carlo Casino.

At Casino Bad Homburg, visitors can try their luck at classic tables such as French Roulette, American Roulette, Black Jack and Ultimate Poker or dive into the world of modern slot machines. Whether a seasoned player or a beginner, every guest receives a warm welcome, ensuring an unforgettable experience at every turn.

But the excitement doesn’t stop at the gaming tables. The in-house restaurant, Le Blanc, delights with innovative dishes crafted from predominantly seasonal ingredients. Whether you crave premium meats or prefer vegetarian

delights, Le Blanc caters to all palates. Guests can savour their meals in an elegant setting, with impeccable service and a well-curated wine list to complement the perfect evening.

And for those looking to unwind and celebrate, the casino’s lounge comes alive on weekends. Top DJs from the Rhein-Main area spin the latest tunes, while the bar serves a wide selection of cocktails, long drinks and more, ensuring the night continues into the wee hours of the morning.

Whether for gaming, dining or a night of fun, Casino Bad Homburg is the perfect destination for those seeking something extraordinary.

www.spielbank-bad-homburg.de

Bad Homburg – Spielbank |

THE TOP TEN CHRISTMAS MARKET TREATS TO TRY THIS YEAR

‘Tis the season to be jolly – and indulgent! After all, Christmas just wouldn’t be Christmas without visiting a gorgeous seasonal market at least once. Luckily, almost all European towns host their own little markets these days but if you seek to get the most authentic experience possible, you should head to Germany, Austria or Switzerland. Here, visitors can browse festively lit stalls and indulge in some awesome culinary treats that you can only find around Christmas. We explored the DACH region’s markets to find out more.

TEXT: NANE STEINHOFF

You probably associate Christmas with some sort of smell or taste. Depending where you’re from, this could include the smell of goose or duck that is sizzling away in the oven, a hot cup of mulled wine or the scent of distinctive spices such as cinnamon. It is well-known that the Christmas season is the one for indulging and treating yourself to culinary delights which you wouldn’t usually eat throughout other months of the year. According to research by Wren Kitchens, on average, Brits will eat almost 6,000 calories over the course of Christmas Day, which is three times the recommended daily intake of calories for adults. Pretty impressive, right?

But don’t think about your figure just yet – after all, you’ve got the entirety of January to get back into the gym. For now, be sure to indulge in some awesome Christmas market treats that will make you feel merry inside and out! And to help you manage the abundance of food choices that Christmas markets have to offer, we introduce the top-ten treats below.

1) LUMUMBA

You have obviously heard of mulled wine before but have you heard of Lumumba? It’s a great alternative to mulled wine and is served at many Christmas markets throughout Germany, Austria and Switzerland. In German, it is also sometimes called ‘Tote Tante’, which translates to ‘dead aunt’. We’re not entirely sure where this name originates from, but it might come from its strong ingredients: a Lumumba usually consists of cocoa, cream and a hot shot of rum, which can be replaced by amaretto or brandy, too.

Christmas market in Innsbruck.

Photo: © TVB Innsbruck, Christof Lackner

Photo: Pixabay

2)

POTATO PANCAKES

If you love hashbrowns, you will surely love a good ‘Reibekuchen’ or ‘Kartoffelpuffer’ – a term for a potato pancake that is commonly sold at Christmas markets throughout the DACH region. Pair with a cold glass of lager and some apple sauce, and you’re in for a heart-warming treat. These potato pancakes are a beloved speciality across all regions of Germany and have been around for centuries.

3)

ROASTED ALMONDS

Not exclusively a German Christmas food, roasted almonds are an integral part of the Christmas market experience. While the gorgeous smell of these candied nuts will tempt you from miles away, the taste will leave you longing for more.

4)

‘SCHUPFNUDELN’ (TYPE OF THICK NOODLE)

A favourite dish for many are ‘Schupfnudeln’, also sometimes called ‘Fingernudeln’. These words describe dumplings or thick noodles that are usually made from rye or wheat flour and egg. This dish will really fill you up, as it’s normally served with some hearty cabbage and bacon. Pair with a bit of mulled wine on

the side and you have found yourself a perfect Christmas market combination that will keep you warm even on the coldest of days.

5) ‘HANDBROT’

Another one from the crowd-pleaser category: the ‘Handbrot’. More often found at the Christmas markets of Northern Germany, the ‘Handbrot’ is a delicious bread filled with melted cheese, a type of sourcream sauce, herbs and ham. Of course, for vegetarians there is a mushroom version that is just as

delicious. When ordering one of these treats at the Christmas market, it is likely that the vendor will bake it in a wood-fired oven right before your eyes.

6) ‘SCHMALZKUCHEN’

If you prefer sweet delights to savoury ones when visiting a Christmas market, we have got just the right option for you – the ‘Schmalzkuchen’ or ‘Mutzen’. These little fried dough bits are simply mouthwatering and contain nothing else but flour, eggs, sugar

Photo: © Switzerland Tourism, swiss-image.ch/Andre Meier

Photo: Pixabay

Photo: Pixabay

Photo: Pixabay

Photo: Pixabay

and aromas. But don’t let the scarce list of ingredients fool you; these little treats are super tasty and are often served with a bit of icing sugar on top, which will no doubt be found all over your jacket after digging into these.

7) GROG

Another beverage that just had to be on this top-ten list: the ‘Grog’. Not a drink for the faint-hearted, this traditional hot beverage only contains hot water and some type of liquor (usually rum). It used to be drunk by seamen in the north of Germany to keep warm in the cold winter. If a combination of water and rum doesn’t really sound too appealing to you, there are some milder options like an apple grog or one with a crystallised sugar stick available. It’s definitely worth a try if you’re seeking the most authentic Christmas market experience out there.

8) ROASTED CHESTNUTS

Usually only found on Britain’s roadsides and in forests, people from Germany, Austria and Switzerland tend to love eating them – especially when visiting a Christmas market. While they are sure to keep your hands super

warm, they also really do taste like Christmas, too. So do give them a try on your next visit.

9) ‘LEBERKÄSE’

This list shouldn’t be missing a meaty treat and that is where ‘Leberkäse’ comes in. The term describes a type of meatloaf-spam meat that is usually served with a bit of mustard in between a bread roll. Originally a speciality from southern Germany, Austria and parts of Switzerland, it reminds us a bit of Bologna sausage, and usually consists of corned beef, pork and bacon, which is ground finely and then baked in a bread pan to get a brown, crunchy crust.

10) ‘STOLLEN’

If you are looking for a piece of cake, then a slice of ‘Stollen’ will probably be your best bet. ‘Stollen’ is famous all over the DACH region and is best described as a type of fruit bread with nuts, spices, candied fruit and icing sugar. It is especially eaten during the festive season, and most households will at least have one in their cupboards for family gatherings. Another fun fact: there is even a ‘Stollen’ festival in Dresden (7 December), which celebrates this special treat with a parade and a giant ‘Stollen’ that feeds hundreds of people.

Photo: © Österreich Werbung, Peter Burgstaller

Photo: Pixabay

SPECIAL THEME: GET FESTIVE – TOP CHRISTMAS MARKETS

Experience the Christmas spirit

The DACH region, comprising Germany, Switzerland and Austria, is famous for its beautiful and diverse selection of Christmas markets. Visit a big city and you will not get around it, visit a small city and it will be the centrepiece. But what is it about these winter wonderland installations that makes them so very irresistible? Let’s find out in this special theme.

PHOTOS: UNSPLASH

TRUE ROMANTIC CHARM AT BAD HOMBURG’S BEAUTIFUL CHRISTMAS MARKET

Experience the romantic charm of Bad Homburg’s Christmas market, set against the backdrop of the historic castle and its iconic ‘Weißer Turm’ tower. Ready for the festive season?

Nestled within the historic walls of Bad Homburg's Schloss, the Christmas market offers a truly enchanting atmosphere. More than 70 beautifully decorated wooden stalls stretch from Schlossplatz to the upper and lower castle courtyards, creating a festive path filled with artisanal crafts, unique gifts and delicious treats. Beneath the iconic ‘Weißer Turm’, visitors will find stalls brimming with handmade jewellery, local artwork and seasonal culinary delights.

One of the market’s most beloved attractions is the little steam train as Nina Gerlach of Bad Homburg Tourism explains: “The charming steam train called Toni delights not only young railway fans. Below Bad Homburg's Weißer Turm, with views of the Taunus hills, it tirelessly chugs along, puffing steam as it makes its rounds. A true ride-along experience.”

No Christmas market is complete without traditional food, but Bad Homburg's offerings are uniquely regional. Wild boar sausages from the local Taunus forest, grilled over a wood fire, are served in freshly baked rolls, best enjoyed with a cup of ‘Posti’ punch – a warming blend featuring the locally famous Reichspost Bitter, a herbal liqueur made from an old apothecary recipe with a festive twist. Visitors can also savour winemaker’s mulled wine from German vineyards, roasted chestnuts and Italian almond pastries in endless varieties. For something heartier, the menu includes salmon burgers, tarte flambée and wood-fired roasted coffee specialities.

This year, live music fills the castle grounds every Friday and Saturday, with jazzy Santas, singing angels and even rock ‘n’ roll reindeers bringing cheer to the crowd. Nina

Gerlach adds: “Christmas in Bad Homburg has many facets. A visit to the festive city centre is well worth it, with the Star Fountain, a 28-metre-high Christmas tree and a lifesized wooden nativity scene at the Kurhaus – absolutely ‚instagrammable’.”

www.bad-homburg.de

A MAGICAL ADVENT EXPERIENCE: FULDA’S CHRISTMAS MARKET

Discover the enchanting Christmas Market in Fulda, where twinkling lights, festive treats and charming stalls come together to create an unforgettable holiday atmosphere for visitors of all ages.

As the days grow shorter and the air fills with the scent of roasted chestnuts and mulled wine, the anticipation of the holiday season reaches its peak in the baroque city of Fulda: Nestled in the heart of the city centre, the popular Christmas market transforms the town into a magical wonderland from 29 November to 23 December 2024.

STROLLING THROUGH A CHRISTMAS FAIRYTALE

Fulda’s Christmas Market is known for its rich variety of regional specialities and unique holiday offerings. Lined with ‘Knusperhäuschen’ - the iconic wooden huts overflowing with lo-

cal delicacies - the market offers a true taste of Fulda. The phrase ‘gude Sachen’, as the locals say, meaning ‘good things’, comes to life here, where traditional treats like mulled wine, roasted almonds and hearty sausages warm belly and soul.

In addition to culinary delights, there are many handmade gifts, from delicate ornaments to woollen socks and hand-carved nativity scenes, making it easy to find the perfect present for loved ones.

At the heart of the market, located on the picturesque plaza Universitätsplatz, stands a striking 18-meter-tall pyramid, adorned with life-size nutcracker figures and twinkling lights. This centrepiece not only adds to the festive ambience but also offers a stunning

panoramic view of the market from its upper level. Here, visitors can enjoy a cosy moment with family or friends, sipping mulled wine and taking in the sights from above.

FAMILY FUN AT THE KINDER-WEIHNACHTSLAND FOR KIDS

Of course, Fulda’s Christmas Market is an event for the whole family. Located on Borgiasplatz, the Kinder-Weihnachtsland caters specifically to younger visitors, offering a range of activities and entertainment every weekend during Advent. The stage comes alive with performances by magicians and musicians, while attractions like the children's Ferris wheel and the Fulda Christmas Express bring joy to young and old alike. Cotton candy is always well within reach, while little ones delight in meeting Santa Claus or taking a ride on the nostalgic merry-go-round.

TRAVEL BACK IN TIME TO THE MEDIEVAL CHRISTMAS VILLAGE

For those looking to experience something a little different, the Medieval Christmas Village is a must-see. Step back in time as you wander through this historic setting, where performers dressed as jesters, craftsmen and maidens skillfully bring the past to life. With its authentic décor and traditional craftsmanship, the village offers a unique Christmas experience that appeals to all ages. Artists demonstrate ancient techniques, creating everything from leather goods to jewellery, while musicians play old instruments, creating an unforgettable journey through history.

If you're seeking a more tranquil escape from the bustling market, the Winterwald (winter forest) offers a serene retreat. Towering

Christmas trees, softly illuminated by fairy lights, surround cosy wooden huts where visitors can relax and enjoy warm beverages. The Winterwald exudes a peaceful ambience, making it the perfect spot to unwind.

A SHOWCASE OF LOCAL TRADITIONS AT THE WEIHNACHTLICHER REGIO'MARKT

Highlighting the region’s commitment to sustainability and tradition, the Weihnachtlicher regio'markt located at the Buttermarkt, presents a curated selection of locally sourced

products. From hand-knitted scarves to gourmet foods, the market celebrates the craftsmanship and agricultural heritage of Fulda and the surrounding Hesse region. Each week, different vendors take the spotlight, offering a diverse array of gifts and speciality items, making the regio'markt a popular destination for those seeking unique, handmade goods.

The Christmas Market in Fulda is a celebration of the season’s cultural richness, with over 70 performances and events scheduled throughout the month. From choir concerts to brass ensembles, there’s something for everyone. On the 14th of December 2024, visitors can look forward to the Fulda Christmas SingAlong, set against the backdrop of the magnificent Fulda Cathedral, where choirs and bands will fill the air with holiday melodies. www.weihnachten-fulda.de

CHRISTMAS GARDEN GERMANY: A MAGICAL EXPERIENCE

Christmas Garden venues offer unforgettable audiovisual experiences for the whole family at countless venues across Germany.

By enticing the public with magical light art and more, Christmas Garden venues allow visitors to fully switch into Christmas mode and submerge themselves in a magical winter wonderland. With much love for detail, the circular routes with their 30 installations respectively are newly created every year, adapting seamlessly to each venue.

Unique light show events with action-rich, imposing highlights as well as poetic and delicate art works are accompanied by sound compositions. The flexible, state-of-the-art light technology allows for a multitude of attractions. And of course, most Christmas Gardens also feature carousels and ice tracks for the little ones, while each event offers a palette of tasty culinary options.

The Christmas Garden venues in Germany yearly attract a large variety of guests and are suitable for both families and an after-work slow-down, or as a special treat for a circle of friends. Last but not least they provide a magnet for national and international tourists.

People looking to escape the Christmas frenzy use the colourful light shows as a wonderful way of spending some hours in contemplation. And, not surprisingly, the events are often even used as a backdrop for romantic proposals!

This season, many new attractions await Christmas Garden visitors throughout Germany. The light art events will be enhanced by elements such as water and fire in a spectacular variety. Many venues regard Christmas Garden events as an intrinsic part of their local tradition, asking for a mix of new attractions and well-known “best of” highlights.

The magic of nature and the fascination of fantasy worlds are artistically staged for even more wowing moments this season.

www.christmas-garden.de

Christmas Garden Berlin, Botanical Gardens – tropical house.

Photo: Christmas Garden, Michael Clemens

Christmas Garden Hamburg, pyramid magic. Photo: Christmas Garden, Rainer Keuenhof

CHRISTMAS GARDEN DEUTSCHLAND: MAGISCHE ERLEBNISSE

Christmas Garden Events bieten in ganz Deutschland unvergessliche audiovisuelle Erlebnisse für die gesamte Familie.

Mit kunstvoller Lichtkunst und weiteren Attraktionen locken die Christmas Garden-Standorte deutschlandweit zur vorweihnachtlichen Auszeit. Hier bietet sich die Möglichkeit zur vollkommenen Entschleunigung: Schalten Sie in den Weihnachtsmodus und tauchen Sie dabei mit der ganzen Familie in ein magisches Winterwunderland ein. Mit viel Liebe zum Detail werden die Rundwege mit ihren jeweils 30 Installationen jedes Jahr neu gestaltet und passen sich dabei nahtlos an die jeweilige Lokalität an.

Einzigartige Lichtshow-Events mit imposanten Highlights sowie poetisch-fragilen Momenten werden von Sound-Kompositionen untermalt. Die hochmoderne, flexibel eingesetzte Lichttechnik ermöglicht dabei eine Vielzahl von künstlerischen und überraschenden Eindrücken. Und natürlich bieten die meisten Christmas Garden Events auch Karussells und Eisbahnen für die Kleinen, während gleichzeitig eine breite Palette an leckeren kulinarischen Angeboten für den Gaumengenuss bereitsteht.

Christmas Garden Events in Deutschland ziehen alljährlich eine Vielzahl von Gästen an und eignen sich sowohl für Familien als auch für After-Work Events, sowie für den besonderen

Adventsabend im Freundeskreis. Nicht zuletzt dienen die Veranstaltungen als Magnet für nationale und internationale Touristen. Menschen, die etwa dem vorweihnachtlichen Trubel entfliehen wollen, nutzen die farbenfrohen Lichtspiele als wunderbare Möglichkeit, einige besinnliche Stunden zu verbringen und es überrascht keineswegs, dass die Veranstaltungen sogar als Kulisse für romantische Heiratsanträge genutzt werden!

Auch in dieser Saison erwarten die Besucher der Christmas Garden Venues in ganz Deutschland viele neue Attraktionen. Die LichtkunstEvents werden durch weitere Elemente wie Wasser und Feuer in spektakulären Inszenierungen bereichert. Für viele Veranstaltungsorte sind die Christmas Garden Events zudem ein fester Bestandteil ihrer lokalen Tradition geworden, und so verlangt das Publikum sowohl nach neuen Attraktionen als auch nach den beliebtesten „Best-of“-Highlights.

Dieses Jahr werden die Magie der Natur und die Faszination von Fantasiewelten dabei besonders kunstvoll inszeniert und sorgen für noch mehr Wow-Momente.

www.christmas-garden.de

Weihnachten im Tierpark. Foto: Christmas Garden, Michael Clemens

Christmas Garden Hamburg, Kathedrale des Lichts. Foto: Christmas Garden, Rainer Keuenhof

Christmas Garden Augsburg, Glockenspiel. Foto: Christmas Garden, Michael Clemens

Visit the Christmas Garden near you at:

Berlin (Tierpark Zoo, Berlin Botanical Gardens) – Hamburg – Hanover – Leipzig – Dresden – Stuttgart – Karlsruhe –Koblenz – Augsburg – Mainau Island

Florian Denks is Head of Touring Department & New Business Manager at Christmas Garden Deutschland GmbH. He started out at a TV production firm and worked as PR manager already in his student years, specializing on concert and event formats. In 2019, he changed to DEAG Entertainment and took over Marketing and project management for concert events in both Berlin and Brandenburg. He started at Christmas Garden Deutschland GmbH in 2021 and is responsible for strategic development.

Besuche den Christmas Garden in Deiner Nähe:

Berlin (Tierpark und Botanischer Garten) – Hamburg –Hannover – Leipzig – Dresden – Stuttgart – Karlsruhe –Koblenz – Augsburg – Insel Mainau

Florian Denks ist Head of Touring Department & New Business Manager bei Christmas Garden. Bereits während seines Studiums arbeitete Denks als PR-Manager mit Schwerpunkt auf Konzert- und Eventformaten. 2019 wechselte er zur DEAG Entertainment und übernahm das Marketing und die Projektleitung für Konzertveranstaltungen in Berlin und Brandenburg. Seit Mai 2023 ist Florian Denks für die strategische Weiterentwicklung der Christmas Garden Events verantwortlich.

Christmas Garden Stuttgart. Photo: Christmas Garden, Markus Burkhardt

THE ZÜRCHER WIENACHTSDORF - A PLACE OF LIGHT AND WARMTH

From 21st November to 23rd December, the Zürcher Wienachtsdorf at Bellevue invites you to experience the festive joy of Christmas.

“The Zürcher Wienachtsdorf is pure magic,” enthuses co-organiser Katja Weber. “Of course, the more than 200 exhibitors with their fantastic range of contemporary, selected products and delicious food play a big part in this. They and the festive, cheerful visitors are typical of the peaceful, family atmosphere of the village, which, with its lakeside location and against the backdrop of the Zurich Opera House, is one of the most beautiful Christmas markets in Europe.”

Lovingly designed decorations and charming details such as street signs and house numbers, lavishly decorated trees, small wooden animals in the narrow winding alleyways and the little elf village for young visitors are all part of the village’s magic. Stilt walkers, fire breathers, concerts and many other highlights are sure to brighten the eyes and fill the hearts of visitors with wonder. Throughout the village, cosy hideaways, fireplaces and alcoves decorated with furs and rugs offer plenty of space for cosy get-togethers and relaxed conversations with family and friends.

“With the Zürcher Wienachtsdorf, we are going far beyond the idea of a conventional Christmas market,” says Weber. “We want to create shared memories and lay the foundations for new Swiss and Zurich traditions. Traditions in which human warmth, cosiness and shared experiences once again take centre stage.”

www.wienachtsdorf.ch

DAS ZÜRCHER WIENACHTSDORF - EIN ORT VOLLER LICHT UND WÄRME

Vom 21. November bis zum 23. Dezember lädt das Zürcher Wienachtsdorf am Bellevue ein, weihnachtliche Momente gemeinsam zu erleben und genießen.

„Das Zürcher Wienachtsdorf ist Magie pur”, betont Co-Organisatorin Katja Weber. „Dazu tragen natürlich auch die über 200 Ausstellenden mit ihrem tollen Angebot an zeitgemäßen, ausgesuchten Produkten und leckerem Essen wesentlich bei. Sie und die festlich gestimmten, fröhlichen Besucher:innen prägen die friedliche, familiäre Atmosphäre des Dorfes, das mit seiner Lage am See und vor der Kulisse des Opernhauses zu einem der schönsten Weihnachtsmärkte Europas wird.”

Die liebevoll gestaltete Dekoration und charmante Details wie Strassenschilder und Hausnummern, üppig geschmückte Bäume, kleine Holztiere in den eng geschwungenen Gassen oder das kleine Elfen-Dörfli für die kleinen Besucher:innen sind Teil der Magie des Dorfes. Stelzenläufer, Feuerspucker, Konzerte und viele weitere Programmpunkte sorgen für leuchtende Augen und begeistertes Staunen. Überall im Dorf bieten gemütliche Rückzugsorte, Feuerstellen und Sitznischen mit Fellen und Teppichen genügend Platz für gemütliche Treffen und entspannte Plaudereien mit Familie und Freunden.

„Mit dem Zürcher Wienachtsdorf gehen wir weit über die Idee eines herkömmlichen Weihnachtsmarktes hinaus”, so Weber. „Wir möchten gemeinsame Erinnerungen schaffen und Grundstein für neue Schweizer bzw. Zürcher Traditionen legen. Traditionen, bei denen menschliche Wärme, Gemütlichkeit und gemeinsames Erleben wieder im Vordergrund stehen.”

ADVENT IN GRAZ

– A BLISSFUL VARIETY

From traditional to modern: Graz celebrates the season with no less than sixteen Christmas markets, each with a specific theme and character, from children’s market to advent lounge to Christmas concert.

The largest Graz Christmas market is located on the main square, with its majestic Christmas tree and the facade of the town hall functioning as an oversized Advent calendar. From here, you can just stroll on: The special thing about Graz at Christmastime is that you can reach all the markets on foot, which also ensures that there is a certain degree of equalisation and that none of the markets are overcrowded.

The picturesque Children's Advent in Kleine Neutorgasse for example, right in front of the Franciscan Church, features a carousel, a nostalgic Ferris wheel, a giant snowman and of course many kinds of sweets, literally sweetening the wait for baby Jesus. Adults meanwhile enjoy the Advent Lounge in Schmiedgasse, where exquisite punch is

on offer. Light compositions underline the high-quality character of this outdoor lounge.

The Christmas markets are accompanied by various small concerts e.g. in the Landhaushof courtyard, as well as in the local churches. The Landhaushof also provides a spectacular backdrop with the larger-than-life ice nativity scene, leaving guests in awe every year.

“Advent in Graz” started with the first Christmas market on the main square in the mid1990s. As the concept took hold, more markets and events were created, soon drawing guests from other Austrian provinces. Today, a mix of national and international visitors from Italy, Slovenia, Croatia, Hungary and southern Germany join the locals in Graz at this magical time of year.

Short distances, hospitality and sustainability are important aspects of the individual Advent markets in Graz. Care is taken to ensure that only local exhibitors are involved. This means that, as far as possible, only regional specialities are sold and there is even a deposit system for tea and mulled wine cups. In addition, there is a minimum of one stand reserved for charity at each market. And the short distances mean that guests never have to set foot in a car or bus once, even if they only visit for the day.

Graz in Advent is a time to marvel, enjoy and experience. The city, already known as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and City of Design, shines in a magical light during this time of year. If you seek to escape the stress of Christmas and be whisked away to a winter wonderland, you should definitely put Graz on your travel list.

www.graztourismus.at/advent/en

Christmas market at Graz Main Square. © Graz Tourismus, Photo: Harry Schiffer

ADVENT IN GRAZ – GLITZERNDE VIELFALT

Von traditionell bis modern: Graz feiert die Vorweihnachtszeit mit nicht weniger als sechzehn Weihnachtsmärkten und Events – vom Kinder-Advent über die Adventlounge bis hin zu Konzerten in den Kirchen der Stadt.

Der größte Grazer Weihnachtsmarkt befindet sich auf dem Hauptplatz, geprägt von seinem majestätischen Christbaum und der Rathausfassade, die als überdimensionaler Adventskalender fungiert. Von hier aus kann man einfach weiter flanieren, denn das Besondere an Graz zur Weihnachtszeit ist, dass man alle Märkte zu Fuß erreichen kann. Dies sorgt auch für eine gewisse Entzerrung, sodass keiner der Märkte überfüllt ist.

Beim Kinderadvent in der Kleinen Neutorgasse direkt vor der Franziskanerkirche versüßen ein Karussell, ein nostalgisches Riesenrad, ein Riesenschneemann und natürlich allerlei Süßigkeiten das Warten auf das Christkind. Erwachsene können derweil die Adventlounge in der Schmiedgasse genießen, wo exquisiter Punsch angeboten wird, untermalt von Licht-

kompositionen, die das hochwertige Ambiente unterstreichen.

Begleitet werden die Grazer Weihnachtsmärkte auch von verschiedenen kleinen Konzerten, z. B. im Landhaushof und in den örtlichen Kirchen. Eine spektakuläre Kulisse bietet der Landhaushof dabei mit seiner überlebensgroßen Eiskrippe, die jedes Jahr wieder die Gäste in Staunen versetzt.

Der „Grazer Advent“ begann Mitte der 1990er Jahre mit einem ersten Weihnachtsmarkt auf dem Hauptplatz. Das Konzept fand sofort Anklang, sodass schon bald weitere Märkte und Veranstaltungen ins Leben gerufen wurden, die außer den Ortsansässigen auch Gäste aus anderen österreichischen Bundesländern anzogen. Heute kommen sowohl regionale als auch internationale Besucher aus Italien, Slowenien, Kroatien, Ungarn und Süddeutschland nach Graz, um die vielfältigen Angebote der Stadt in dieser magischen Jahreszeit zu genießen.

Kurze Wege, Gastfreundschaft und Nachhaltigkeit sind wichtige Aspekte bei den einzelnen Adventsmärkten in Graz. Es wird zum Beispiel darauf geachtet, dass nur lokale AusstellerInnen beteiligt sind, die soweit möglich

ausschließlich regionale Spezialitäten anbieten. Für Tee- und Glühweintassen gibt es ein Pfandsystem. Außerdem ist pro Markt jeweils mindestens ein Stand einer wohltätigen Organisation gewidmet. Und die kurzen Wege bedeuten, dass Gäste beim Besuch der meisten Märkte nicht einmal den Fuß in ein Verkehrsmittel setzen müssen, selbst wenn sie nur einen Tag vor Ort sind.

Graz im Advent ist eine Zeit des Miteinanders, des Staunens, Genießens und des Erlebens. Bekannt als UNESCO-Welterbe und City of Design, erstrahlt die Stadt zu dieser Zeit in ganz besonderem Glanz. Wer also dem Weihnachtsstress entkommen und sich in eine winterliche Wunderwelt entführen lassen möchte, der sollte Graz auf jeden Fall auf seine Reiseliste setzen.

www.graztourismus.at/advent/de

Adventlounge Schmiedgasse. © Graz Tourismus, Foto: Mias Photoart

Advent in Graz. © Graz Tourismus, Foto: Werner Krug

Uhrturm. © Graz Tourismus, Foto: Harry Schiffer

Kinderadvent Kleine Neutorgasse. © Graz Tourismus, Foto: Harry Schiffer

39TH ALPINE SKI WORLD CUP IN ALTA BADIA THE GRAN RISA SLOPE IS READY FOR THE SHOW

Preparations for the two Alpine World Cup races are currently underway in Alta Badia. The special event will place on Sunday 22nd and Monday 23rd December on the famous Gran Risa slope, one of the most technically demanding and spectacular pistes in the entire white circus.

TEXT: ALTA BADIA, NANE STEINHOFF

The renowned holiday resort in the heart of the Dolomites, which has been declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, can look back on a long tradition as a venue for Alpine Ski World Cup races. For no less than 39 years, Alta Badia has been one of the most anticipated stages of the Ski World Cup. Under the leadership of Andy Varallo, the organizing committee strives to ensure smooth operations and constant improvement every year.

The world's best men's alpine ski racers will compete in a giant slalom and a special slalom in Alta Badia on Sunday 22nd and Monday 23rd December. Thanks to the hospitality areas, this edition will also be dedicated to sport and lifestyle. Ski fans can support their favourites live, in the stands on the ground floor or in the three hospitality areas, which are prepared for the numerous fans.

SPORT, MUSIC AND CULINARY HIGHLIGHTS

The region is increasingly developing into a place that offers the greatest wealth of valuable moments of enjoyment in the mountains. In this sense, the Ski World Cup races are a unique opportunity to discover the excellences of the destination. The races are indeed the highlight of skiing in Alta Badia. The event's three hospitality areas offer authentic moments of enjoyment based on the region's most important values, namely fine cuisine, the majesty of the Dolomites and Ladin culture. For example, the excellence of moments dedicated to gourmet cuisine is again at home in the Leitner VIP Lounge, located on the terrace of the building in front of the ground floor.

Leitner, one of the world market leaders in cable car construction, and Alta Badia share the same innovative strength. “Our company

Photo: Alex Moling / Alta Badia

Photo: Freddy Planinschek / Alta Badia

history is closely linked to Alta Badia. A relationship that began in 1947 with the first chairlift made in Italy, the Col Alt chairlift in Corvara. Over the decades, the collaboration has strengthened and developed into a friendship. Together we were able to overcome many challenges, which strengthened our bond, which is characterized by mutual help and the ability to learn from each other.” With these words Anton Seeber, President of Leitner, describes the relationship of appreciation and friendship that has been renewed time and again for more than 75 years.

LEITNER's VIP lounge offers the opportunity to watch the races from a privileged position and spend a few quiet hours with a good

glass of wine, accompanied by magnificent dishes created by star chef Peter Brunel from the Peter Brunel Ristorante Gourmet in Arco on Sundays. Brunel has made a sustainable philosophy in the kitchen his calling and is inspired by the cuisines of the world, but always returns to his native Alps. Tina Marcelli from the Artifex restaurant (Pflerschtal) and chef Johann Lerchner from the Lerchner's restaurant in St. Lorenzen are responsible for the culinary offer on Monday, December 23rd

in the LEITNER VIP Lounge. Together, the two chefs will present a four-course menu that combines a passion for the region's culinary tradition with a focus on sustainable sourcing of strictly seasonal ingredients. The interior design of the LEITNER VIP Lounge is modern and sophisticated, with shared areas such as the cosy wine bar and more intimate, secluded corners ideal for business meetings. The service for guests is continuous, some of the best South Tyrolean products such

Photo: Alex Moling / Alta Badia

Photo: Alex Moling / Alta Badia

Photo: Manuel Glira / Alta Badia

as bacon and cheese are served throughout the day, along with excellent South Tyrolean wines and sparkling wines in collaboration with the Consortium South Tyrol Wine, the Association of South Tyrolean Sparkling Wine Producers according to the Classic Method and IDM South Tyrol.

In the Red Bull Energy Lounge, the pioneering atmosphere of Alta Badia meets the high ambitions of Red Bull and together they have once again created a lounge that is unique on the entire World Cup route. Visitors can look forward to a building with a large terrace right in the finish area, where fans can watch the races from the front row and from a privileged position, just like in the starting boxes of a Formula 1 or MotoGP race.

In the Red Bull Energy Lounge, you can toast with the Drusian sparkling wine, which is also the sparkling wine used at the award ceremonies for the two races. “Being the official sponsor of the Ski World Cup races in Alta Badia for the third year in a row fills us with great pride,” says Francesco

Drusian, owner of the eponymous winery in the heart of Valdobbiadene. “Our company shares with this prestigious event the values of determination and passion that characterize the athletes and that we promote in our work. For us, supporting the Ski World Cup is not only an opportunity to be present at an event of international importance,” continues Drusian, “but also a way to support and enhance two areas that are close to our hearts: the Dolomites and the Hills of Conegliano and Valdobbiadene, both listed as World Heritage Sites. We would like to thank the organization for this collaboration and look forward to once again being able to

toast with our sparkling wine together with the many fans of this sport.”

The more traditional, wood-panelled lounge is called the Gran Risa Chalet. This hospitality area is dedicated to Ladin traditions and culture and will host partners Forst, Oakley and Movimënt for the occasion. This lounge is not only furnished in mountain style, but also offers the opportunity to taste some of the best dishes of local, simple but genuine Ladin cuisine. The Gran Risa Chalet makes it possible to get in touch with personalities from the world of sports, as this hospitality area is also used as a stage for conversations and meetings with athletes.

FURTHER INFOS

The Ski World Cup weekend begins on Saturday evening, December 21st at 7 p.m., with the drawing of the starting numbers in the center of La Villa, followed by the party organized by the fire department in the marquee, which is set up directly on the Gran Risa ground floor.

• From Tuesday October 15th, all ticket types can be purchased online at www.skiworldcup.it

• Tickets for a grandstand seat cost from €30.00 for Sunday and Monday and, like the lounge tickets

• Tickets for the Red Bull Energy Lounge cost €245.00 for Sunday and €215.00 for Monday

• LEITNER's VIP lounge tickets cost €310 for Sunday and €225 for Monday

Photo: Alex Moling / Alta Badia

Photo: Manuel Glira / Alta Badia

Photo: Matteo Agreiter / Alta Badia

BURCKHARDT – ARCHITECTURE AND INNOVATION

Swiss architectural office Burckhardt combines the reliability, expertise and experience of a long-established enterprise with the power of innovation.

Driven by a passion for architecture and new ideas, Burckhardt is known for thinking out of the box and realizing outstanding projects. The unique structure of the enterprise allows not only designing but also managing, selling and restoring buildings through subsidiaries, thus applying a broad knowledge of the entire real estate value chain. The shares of Burckhardt are held exclusively by active employees - most probably a one-off business concept in the world of architecture, ensuring a high identification with the company.

Founded in Basel in 1951 by Martin Heinrich Burckhardt, the company grew quickly alongside the pharmaceutical industry of the region. Faced with new challenges of designing, say, state-of-the-art laboratories from the start, Burckhardt has always worked in close collaboration with the clients and their individual needs, resulting in innovative, complex and unique projects until today:

Visible from afar, the elegant driveways at Zurich Airport have given Switzerland's largest airport a new visual identity. The elegantly curved canopy with a length of 350 meters not only connects Terminals 1 and 2, but also combines good design with structural precision: With a train station situated directly under the driveways as well as a height difference of 3 meters between the two terminals, the distribution of the loads of the canopy had to be balanced most precisely.

Different in nature yet equally innovative, the award-winning MFO-Park in Zurich presents the unique concept of a vertical park in the middle of the city. Together with Raderschall landscape architecture, Burckhardt developed an outstanding idea which promptly won the office the commission and has since proved a highly valuable addition to Zurich’s cityscape. A lushly overgrown steel structure invites visitors to relax and discuss, watch movies or attend concerts 24/7 at any time of year, and its design reflects the original dimensions of the Oerlikon machine factory that used to be located here.

With eight offices across Switzerland and Germany, the Burckhardt group continues to seek innovative challenges. For example, the fast-growing Berlin branch is currently developing a new building for the ‘Federal Office for Materials Research and Testing’ by using the highly collaborative and integrative project execution method IPD, for which architects, building services planners, shell builders and the client work together from the outset in a so-called ‘co-location’.

www.burckhardt.swiss

MFO Park Zurich. © Michael Freisager

Zurich Airport driveways. © Beat Bühler

BURCKHARDT – ARCHITEKTUR UND INNOVATION

Das Schweizer Architekturbüro Burckhardt verbindet die Zuverlässigkeit, Kompetenz und Erfahrung eines etablierten Unternehmens mit der Kraft der Innovation.

Aus der Offenheit für neue Herausforderungen und einer besonderen Unternehmensstruktur entstehen immer wieder Ausnahmeprojekte. Burckhardt wird von der Leidenschaft für hervorragende Architektur getragen, die Geschäftsbereiche der Unternehmensgruppe sind jedoch breiter gefächert: Eine Tochterfirma entwickelt und investiert; eine weitere verkauft, verwaltet und saniert Immobilien. Damit hat Burckhardt ein sehr breites Wissen über die die gesamte Wertschöpfungskette von Immobilien. Die Aktienanteile der Burckhardt AG werden ausnahmslos von aktiven Mitarbeitenden gehalten. Das ist im Feld der Architektur wahrscheinlich einzigartig und entsprechend gross ist die Identifikation der Mitarbeitenden mit Burckhardt.

Das 1951 von Martin Heinrich Burckhardt in Basel gegründete Unternehmen wuchs zusammen mit der ansässigen pharmazeutischen Industrie. Stets mit neuen Herausforderungen konfrontiert, etwa bei der Realisierung innovativer Laborbauten, setzte Burckhardt von Anfang an auf eine enge Kooperation mit den Kunden und die Berücksichtigung von zum Teil sehr individuellen Bedürfnissen. Dieser Ansatz führt bis heute zu komplexen und einzigartigen Projekten:

Mit den weithin sichtbaren Vorfahrten am Flughafen Zürich hat Burckhardt dem grössten Schweizer Flughafen eine neue visuelle Identität verliehen. Das elegant geschwungene Vordach mit einer Länge von 350 Metern verbindet nicht nur die Terminals 1 und 2, sondern auch gute Gestaltung mit konstruktiver Präzision. Was täuschend leicht aussieht, verbirgt eine höchst komplexe Stahlkonstruktion, die einen Höhenunterschied von 3 Metern zwischen den Terminals überwindet. Zudem mussten angesichts der unterirdischen Zugstation die Lasten des Dachs punktgenau austariert werden.

Gleichermaßen innovativ ist der mehrfach ausgezeichnete MFO-Park in Zürich, als einzigartiges Konzept einer vertikalen Grünanlage mitten in der Stadt. Zusammen mit Raderschall Landschaftsarchitekten entwickelte Burckhardt eine außergewöhnliche Idee, die dem Büro prompt den Auftrag einbrachte und sich seither als wertvolle Bereicherung des Zürcher Stadtlebens erweist: Eine üppig bewachsene Stahlkonstruktion lädt zu jeder Jahreszeit 24/7 zum Entspannen und Diskutieren, zu Kino oder Konzerten ein und nimmt in der Konstruktion die ursprünglichen Dimensionen der Maschinenfabrik Oerlikon auf, die sich früher an diesem Standort befand.

Burckhardt ist heute an acht Standorten in der Schweiz und in Deutschland vertreten und sucht stetig nach neuen Herausforderungen. Die schnell wachsende Berliner Niederlassung entwickelt zum Beispiel derzeit einen Neubau für das „Bundesamt für Materialforschung und -prüfung“ mit Hilfe der hierzulande neuen, hochgradig kollaborativen Methode der Integrierten Projektabwicklung (IPA), bei der u. a. Architekten, Haustechnikplaner, Rohbauer und der Bauherr von Anfang an in einer sogenannten Co-Location sehr eng zusammenarbeiten.

www.burckhardt.swiss

Vorfahrten Flughafen Zürich. © Beat Bühler

Vorfahrten Flughafen Zürich. © Beat Bühler

MFO-Park Zürich. Photo: Michael Freisager

Culture Calendar

November is here, and it’s packed with fun! Whether you're into fairy tales, gourmet food or film premieres, there’s something to get you excited as the days get shorter. From magical Christmas markets to book fairs, these events are sure to keep your spirits bright all month long.

TEXT: MARILENA STRACKE

Berliner Märchentage. Photo: MÄRCHENLAND

GENEVA INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL (1 – 10 NOVEMBER)

Get ready for international premieres, insightful master classes and endless networking opportunities at the iconic Geneva International Film Festival (GIFF), which is celebrating its 30th anniversary this year. Explore the worlds of cinema, television and digital artit's an absolute must for any film lover. www.giff.ch

BERLINER MÄRCHENTAGE, BERLIN (7 – 24 NOVEMBER)

Step into the realm of magic during the 35th instalment of the Berlin Fairy Tale Days. This cherished event breathes life into beloved

childhood stories, promising enchantment for both young and old. This year's theme is ‘The World Tree – The Cosmic Order – From Fairy Tales to Fantasy‘. www.berliner-maerchentage.de

INTERNATIONAL A CAPPELLA FESTIVAL VOICE MANIA, VIENNA

(8 NOVEMBER – 8 DECEMBER)

For the 26th time, it’s not just about singing, rocking, jazzing, grooving, and making sounds, but also shouting, joking around, laughing, tapping – and then back to singing again. Vocal artistry at its finest awaits the guests of Voice Mania in the heart of Vienna. www.voicemania.at/das-festival

PLAZA

CULINARIA, FREIBURG (8 – 10 NOVEMBER)

Plaza Culinaria, taking place at Messe Freiburg, is one of southern Germany’s premier culinary events. Attracting around 35,000 visitors annually, this gourmet fair offers an exciting blend of fine food, drinks and culinary experiences from regional and international exhibitors. Highlights include live cooking demonstrations, workshops and a wide variety of food-related products to explore. www.plaza-culinaria.de

City of Stars St Gallen. Photo: Thomas Egger

Plaza Culinaria.Photo: Achim Kaeflein

Plaza Culinaria.Photo: Achim Kaeflein

Voice Mania. Photo: Mihaela Raykova / Voice Mania Archiv

Cologne Carnival.

Photo: Mika Baumeister on Unsplash

CARNIVAL

SEASON KICK-OFF, COLOGNE (11 NOVEMBER)

On 11/11, Cologne erupts with the start of its famous carnival season. Thousands in colourful costumes fill the streets, creating a lively, vibrant atmosphere. The entire city transforms into a carnival ‘madhouse’, with music, joy and excitement all around. It’s the perfect chance to experience German carnival traditions early and catch performances from top stars in the scene.

www.koeln.de/tourismus

BUCH WIEN, VIENNA (20 – 24 NOVEMBER)

This vibrant literary event features over 500 exhibitors and a wide array of programs, including readings, author discussions, workshops and book signings. The fair draws book enthusiasts and professionals from around the world, celebrating literature in all its forms - from novels and non-fiction to children's books and graphic novels. As a cornerstone of Austria's literary scene, Buch Wien is a must-attend for anyone passionate about books and culture.

www.buchwien.at

VINIFERA, BIEL (20 –

25 NOVEMBER)

Vinifera is a premier event for wine enthusiasts, offering a chance to explore a vast selection of wines from over 100 exhibitors. With tastings, a vibrant atmosphere and diverse selections, Vinifera is the perfect spot for wine lovers to discover new flavours. Don't miss the exclusive Bielersee Wine Event on 25 November, featuring local wines from the Lake Biel region. www.vinifera.ch

CITY OF STARS, ST. GALLEN (28 NOVEMBER – 06 JANUARY)

Start the festive season in style with a visit to St. Gallen, Switzerland's enchanting ‘City of Stars’, where the historic old town will be illuminated by 700 glowing stars, casting a magical light over its charming Christmas market. The market features over 50 wooden stalls offering handcrafted gifts, festive decorations and local Swiss delicacies. With a backdrop of UNESCO World Heritage sites like the Abbey of St. Gallen and its towering Christmas tree adorned with 18,000 lights, it’s the perfect place to get into the Christmas spirit. www.sternenstadt.ch

City of Stars St Gallen. Photo: Thomas Egger

Buch Wien book fair. Photo: Nicola Montfort

Buch Wien book fair.Photo: Nicola Montfort

Live Cycles

Let’s talk about inner-city transport. Berlin now has probably the cheapest monthly flat rate in Europe, yet a multitude of residents and visitors still prefer the fresh air adventure and ride bicycles and scooters to their hearts’ delight.

A little warning upfront: Berlin streets can be crazy and present a mix of known and unknown rules you will only decode over time. And don’t take this the wrong way, but when I spot one of those slow, chatty, and at times unexpectedly bulging cycling tourist groups on my daily travels, I usually try to surpass them at the first traffic light or circumvent them in a wide, generous arc. (Believe me, it is safer for all parties involved.)

However, I would still recommend cycling to any Berlin visitor, be it solo or en group, as it will give you the true Berliner’s perspective on – yes, slightly unpredictable, authentic street life. In any event, it is better than slumbering away on one of the sightseeing buses – or seeing nothing at all because you heard the subway is the quickest way to get anywhere. (It is, but you miss out on a lot of local colour.)

Green transport nowadays rocks European cities – Paris no doubt being the strongest runner-up. Even formerly smoke-struck London has caught up by installing so many ‘cycleways’ and the highest congestion charge ever that the impact initially enraged both commuters and supply drivers to the point of rebellion. And Berlin? Well, for the fact that everyone and their auntie uses bicycles, the city is still more than a little behind with its green policies.

It is hard to admit, but Paris has long surpassed us as a cycling-friendly city. The bumped-y-bump Berlin mix of cobblestone streets (where everyone risks charges by taking the pavement instead), deadly tram lines (best to be crossed at a 90-degree angle) and old narrow bike paths taken over by tree roots means that the situation is colourful at best and is only improving in good old German manner: Slowly. The cycling lobby however is growing, and so is the number of new cycling paths and bicycle roads. I for one have used that mode of transport for more than three decades.

Starting with the cold November rains though, some might want to take advantage of the new monthly ticket, which comes at a very democratic price of € 29 (subscribers only). The Berlin ticket includes all inner-city public transport, starting with subway and overground (‘S-Bahn’), via buses through to the well-kept tram lines, probably the most comfortable way of gently zooming through the city. For a short visit, the four-trip ticket is the best saving option.

Having said that, I still spot the jolly, chatty bulbous cycling tourist groups in the fall months, led and followed by their patient guides in traffic vests – with everyone clad in

those transparent, tent-like raincoats. Despite the mild annoyance they might prove to a cycling resident in haste, they always seem to have the best of times, no matter the weather.

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.

Photo: Coline Matthee

Near Oberbaum bridge. Photo: Norbert Braun / Unsplash

Cycling the Wall Path. Photo: Morgana Bartolomei / Unsplash

Brush with royalty

One of my favourite stories to come out of Germany recently is that of the comedian who claims he’s the great-grandson of Kind Edward VII. Sounds like a joke but is, according to Hape Kerkeling, said comedian, meant seriously.

A little detour here, for readers who are not familiar with Hape (short for Hans Peter) who is probably one of Germany’s most loved entertainers. The comedian, who’ll turn 60 in December, had his breakthrough in the 1980s when at the age of only 19 he started hosting his own TV comedy show and went on to create characters that have become part and parcel of German popular culture. He’s also an actor and bestselling writer and really good at mimicking dialects and accents. This talent was crucial for his most iconic moment when, in 1991, he dressed up as Queen Beatrix of the Netherlands on the day when the Dutch monarch was on a state visit to Berlin, pretending to be her and (almost) blagging his way into Schloss Bellevue where the real queen was to meet the then President of Germany.

After this brush with royalty for comedic purposes, Hape is now telling Germany in his new partly autobiographical book “Gebt mir etwas Zeit” (Give me a little time) that there is convincing evidence proving that

Discover Germany Issue 123, November 2024

Published 11.2024

ISSN 2051-7718

Published by Scan Magazine Ltd.

Print

Stibo Complete

Executive Editor

Thomas Winther

Creative Director

Mads E. Petersen

he is really of royal descent. Here’s the story behind it: When bored during Covid, he started his private “Who do you think you are” investigations, took a DNA test and found out that he has Dutch, Polish,Italian and British ancestors.

The latter, in particular intrigued him, and to cut a long story short, he established that his grandmother Bertha was born out of wedlock in the Bohemian spa town of Mariánské Lázně exactly nine months after King Edward VII. had been there on a visit. She then grew up, at least partly, in a castle with some European aristos that had proven close relations with King Edward VII. There’s also a letter he received years ago from a lady in Mariánské Lázně, claiming that his grandmother was the “result” of an affair of King Edward VII. with a local woman, which he dismissed as nonsense at the time.

But now, Hape is making the rounds of Germany’s chat shows, promoting his book and talking about specific DNA mutations that experts would expect to find in a direct descendant of Edward VII. – and that he has. Brilliant PR or the truth? In a newspaper interview, he said that while he wouldn’t swear on the Bible, he believes in all the evidence pointing to him being a greatgrandson of Edward VII. Which, if I’m not

Editor

Nane Steinhoff

Assistant Editor

Marilena Stracke

Copy-Editor

Vera Winther

Graphic Designer

Mercedes Moulia

Mauro Salerno

Sales & Key Account Managers

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Lawinia Toth

Sophie Blecha

mistaken, would make him an uncle of King Charles, right?? I wonder what he would make of his potential family relations with German comedy royalty. If anyone has access to royal circles, let me know…

Contributors

Barbara Geier

Cornelia Brelowski

Marilena Stracke

Norbert Eisele-Hein

Silke Henkele

Cover Photo

A llama trekking tour.

Photo: Norbert Eisele-Hein

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Barbara 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 that was set up together with UK travel writer Andrew Eames in 2010.

TEXT & PHOTOS: BARBARA GEIER

21.N ovember – 23. Dezember 2024

w eihnachtsallee.ch@weihnachtsalleezh

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