Discover Germany, Issue 67, October 2018

Issue 67 | October 2018

SEBASTIAN

KOCH

AN HOMAGE TO ART’S LIBERATING POWER

PLUS

INTERIOR DESIGN TRENDS 2018 ALL EYES ON BERN FOCUS ON ENERGY TECHNOLOGIES DESIGN, CULTURE, TRAVEL & MORE

T H E M AG A Z I N E P R O M OT I N G G E R M A N Y, S W I T Z E R L A N D & A U ST R I A

Your Shortcut to Germany Bergen

NORWAY

Oslo Stockholm Bromma

SWEDEN Aalborg bo org g

UNITED KINGDOM DENMARK K

G enburg Goth

Aarh A rhu us us

Billund Manchester

London City

Brussels

BELGIUM BE

Düsseldorf

GERMANY

Munich

WINNER OF DANISH TRAVEL AWARD 2012 “BEST EUROPEAN AIRLINE”

Snacks

Me al s

ba.com

Dr inks

Pap ers

Lounges

Smiles

Discover Germany | Contents

Contents OCTOBER 2018

22 Photo: © Till Brönner

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Sebastian Koch Sebastian Koch is back – with Werk ohne Autor (Never Look Away), a gripping drama, a tragic family story, an exciting thriller and an homage to the liberating power of art all in one. Discover Germany speaks to Koch about the new film, his busy schedule, his love for Berlin and much more.

SPECIAL THEMES 13

Top Wedding Trends Are you or one of your friends planning a wedding? Then be sure to read this special theme in which we have handpicked some companies that will be able to help with decorating, finding the right wedding dress and more.

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Interior Design Trends 2018 Creativity, know-how and talent – those are the pillars of superb interior design.

But what are this year’s top interior design trends? We give you some idea.

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Top Events in Switzerland 2018 For those who are currently on the hunt for the perfect event or a suitable congress-, wedding- or meeting venue, we suggest checking out this special theme.

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Germany’s Top Spas & Wellness Hotels Germany is characterised by small spa towns and a large choice of luxury wellness hotels and top spa offerings. Get inspired for your autumn getaway!

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All Eyes on Bern – The Capital’s Highlights of 2018 Switzerland’s capital of Bern has a great deal to offer – culinary highlights, places to stay and inspiring exhibitions and mu-

Photo: © Peter Fehrentz

seums are just some of what the city is proud to showcase. Find out more in this special theme.

COVER FEATURE 22

20

Photo: © Bern Tourismus, swiss-image.ch/Terence du Fresne

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Focus on Energy Technologies We take a look at some of the most exciting energy technologies and introduce you to the masterminds behind them.

Welcome to the future!

FEATURES 28

Star Interview: Anne-Catrin Märzke Best known for roles in Justice, SOKO Wismar and Gute Zeiten, Schlechte Zeiten, German actress Anne-Catrin Märzke speaks to Discover Germany about her highly topical latest project and much more.

REGULARS & COLUMNS 10

Dedicated to Design Whether you are searching for autumncoloured and other stylish interior design items, or tartan fashion inspiration, be sure to take a look at our Design section.

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Culture Our Culture section is filled with a classic car meeting, interesting museums and inspiring events this month.

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Travel Want to find out more about great things to do in the DACH region or need hotel inspiration for your upcoming trip? Be sure to read our Travel section.

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The Passion Play in Erl Every six years, the men of the small town of Erl in Tyrol, Austria let the hair on their heads and their beards grow out to keep a 400-year-old tradition alive. They take part in the world famous Passion play of Erl. Discover Germany finds out more.

66

Business Our Business section is filled with innovative businesses from the DACH region, an enchanting architect and plenty more. Furthermore, our columnist Gregor Kleinknecht takes on the interesting topic of Brexit’s impact on financial services.

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In Hamburg, You Can Have It All… The vibrant harbour city in North Germany, with its enchanting bridges and canals, is an absolute must for any traveller. Discover Germany delves a little further into what makes this enchanting place so special.

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The Delights of the German Vocabulary In our monthly column, British author Adam Jacot de Boinod explores the weird and wonderful world of German vocabulary and finds some rather interesting terms.

64

Reboot Your Mind When managers experience physical and mental symptoms of severe stress, a suitable regeneration programme needs to be found. Luckily, an increasing number of hotels and medical resorts offer their own programmes as remedies for burnout.

Discover Germany speaks to three of them.

81

Culture Calendar Discover Germany’s Culture Calendar is your perfect guide to what not to miss in October.

86

Barbara Geier Column This month, our columnist Barbara Geier sheds some light on the weird behaviour of today’s omnipresent helicopter parents.

Issue 67 | October 2018 | 3

Dear Reader,

Discover Germany Issue 67, October 2018 Published 10.2018 ISSN 2051-7718 Published by Scan Magazine Ltd. Print Liquid Graphic Ltd. Executive Editor Thomas Winther Creative Director Mads E. Petersen Editor Nane Steinhoff Assistant Editor Marilena Stracke Copy-Editor Karl Batterbee Graphic Designer Mercedes Moulia Contributors Adam Jacot de Boinod Barbara Geier

Cornelia Brelowski Gregor Kleinknecht Ina Frank Jessica Holzhausen Silke Henkele Sonja Irani Yvonne Dewerne Cover Photo © Till Brönner Sales & Key Account Managers Emma Fabritius Nørregaard Melanie von der Kammer Sophie Blecha Katrin Virtbauer Tanja Meier Publisher: SCAN GROUP Scan Magazine Ltd. 15B Bell Yard Mews Bermondsey Street London SE1 3YT United Kingdom Phone: +44 (0)870 933 0423 Fax: +44 (0)870 933 0421

Email: info@discovergermany.com For further information please visit www.discovergermany.com

It’s officially autumn! But while we’re sad that summer is over, the new season also has a great deal to offer. If you’re feeling a bit lost about what to do after spending so much time sunbathing and sitting outside until late at night, we have some tips for you: why not go apple or leaf picking? Just walking around forests with their amazingly colourful autumn leaves is an experience not to be missed in itself. And travelling in autumn should not be so underrated.

On top of prices generally being lower than in summer, fewer crowds can also be expected during city trips. So maybe it’s time to experience something new this autumn? We suggest heading to Bern – Switzerland’s capital. Whether you’re into architecture, visiting museums or art galleries, indulging in local cuisine or simply wandering through the picture-postcard old town, Bern enchants visitors immediately with its provincial, laid-back air and its interesting offering of a vast array of things to do and see.

If you’re interested in heading there, we feature a big Bern-special in this issue. Be sure to take a look.

Autumn also seems like the perfect time to give our homes a much-needed interior overhaul. To get you inspired, our new October issue sports a special theme on interior trends amongst others. If you also need to update your wardrobe with new autumn pieces, we suggest checking out our Fashion Finds section, which this month focuses on checked and tartan patterns – one of this season’s top fashion trends.

Other topics covered in our latest magazine are top events in Switzerland, innovative energy technologies, relaxing spa and wellness offerings and an interesting interview with actress Anne-Catrin Märzke, amongst other highlights. Furthermore, we spoke to German actor Sebastian Koch about his latest project and much, much more.

Sit back, relax and thanks for reading.

Nane Steinhoff, Editor

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

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Discover Germany | Design | Fashion Finds

Fashion Finds The beautiful autumn period is here! And with it, the season’s top fashion trends. This year, the designers’ favourite touch seemed to be British checked and tartan patterns, as they were omnipresent on almost every catwalk. We show you how to stylishly combine this gorgeous autumn trend without looking too old-fashioned.

Get inspired!

EDITOR’S PICKS I PRESS IMAGES

The German label CINQUE stands for casual, yet elegant fashion pieces for women and men who want to embody the Italian lifestyle. This season, CINQUE’s designers have put an emphasis on bold tartan patterns, as can be seen with this gorgeous coat. Coat £294. www.cinque.de

To keep your fingers warm, choose these gloves by JOOP! They will also go with almost any outfit and will therefore be a muchneeded staple in your autumn wardrobe. £POA. www.joop.com

One always needs a reliable umbrella for autumn. Even better, is when it is stylish and durable like this one from the long-standing German umbrella manufacturer Knirps. £40. www.knirps.de

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Discover Germany | Design | Fashion Finds

How about these culottes by THOM by Thomas Rath? Our suggestion: dress them up or down with a simple blouse, some nice boots and a short jacket. Available on QVC. £76. www.thomas-rath.com

If you are going for a Britain-inspired outfit, a good pair of Chelsea boots should not be missing. These ones by Strandfein are water-resistant and therefore perfect for autumn walks.

Available on QVC. £107. www.qvc.de

This outfit – also by CINQUE – demonstrates how to stylishly combine several items with checked pattern. Whether in the office, at brunch or on a day out in town, you will definitely be noticed with these pieces.

Blazer £223, trousers £160, jumper £89, blouse £107. www.cinque.de

Issue 67 | October 2018 | 7

Discover Germany | Design | ZOÉ LU

ZOÉ LU More than just a bag

Left: One bag – many looks. Photo: © ZOÉ LU Top middle: Casual look with cowboy boots: black flap with fringes Bohemian Me and Best Buddy bag in taupe. Photo: © @fifteenminfame, Kimyana, fifteenminfame.com Top right: Urban look with modern twist: colourful Candymania flap with Best Buddy bag in black. Photo: © @susamamma Below right: Changing flaps – how does it work? Photo: © ZOÉ LU Bottom right: Romantic flower power: embroidered So Romantic flap and Best Buddy bag in taupe. Photo: © @fifteenminfame, Kimyana, fifteenminfame.com

Women need many handbags – this is an indisputable fact. That is why the three founders of ZOÉ LU have come up with an innovative and playful solution for women and their significant others: a suitable bag for every look through stylish, interchangeable flaps.

gifts becomes easy – a new flap for every occasion poses as the perfect present without having to rack one’s brain too much.” www.zoelu.com

TEXT: NANE STEINHOFF

One bag – many looks. That is now possible with ZOÉ LU. Revolutionising the bag market with a simple, yet effective idea, ZOÉ LU bags have many advantages to them. Customers only need purchase one bag body and can then add many different flaps to suit every outfit. Larissa Walter, one of the three founders, elaborates: “Our bag flaps are interchangeable and we constantly bring new flap models onto the market.

After all, us women need at least 100 bags to our name.” “Nobody has to wait long for the new collection as we design new flaps every six weeks,” adds Ulrike Heintz, co-founder of ZOÉ LU. The ZOÉ LU principle The advantages of a ZOÉ LU bag are manifold. For instance, the bag can be easily 8 | Issue 67 | October 2018

and quickly adapted to any outfit. This also means that women do not have to repack their bags all the time. Furthermore, the bags save lots of space while travelling: the interchangeable flaps are easily packed into one’s luggage and women always have the suitable bag for each outfit on hand. Other benefits are that the bags are sustainable and timeless due to their classic shape and high-quality leather. As well as this, an interchangeable flap is comparably much cheaper than an entirely new leather bag.

And last but not least, your home can also be tidy with ZOÉ LU: the smart flap hanger ‘Flap storage’ lets you stow away the different flaps neatly in your wardrobe. Jennifer Rüggeberg, the third ZOÉ LU founder, concludes: “Men also love our concept: when their women have a ZOÉ LU, finding

Exclusive discount code for Discover Germany readers: If you are interested in getting a ZOÉ LU, head to their website (above) and add the discount code DISCOVERY10 at the end of the online ordering process to get ten per cent off your order. The code is valid until 15 December.

Discover Germany | Design | Edition NOTO GmbH

High-class leather bags with a puristic design aesthetic The label NOTO by Edition NOTO GmbH, combines Japanese aesthetics and Italian lifestyle: NOTO bags are clear and elegant in their design language, the simple forms are an analogy for Japanese minimalism. All bags are made from Moroccan lambskin leather and have a natural colour spectrum ranging from sandy clay to black-brown amber.

TEXT: JESSICA HOLZHAUSEN

Company founder Bernhard Hansl loves leather bags, but before he established his own label, it was hard for him to find exactly the leather bag he was looking for. What bothered him was how carelessly brands often treat materials. What he wanted was to create bags with a long lifespan, bags that their owners feel a connection with and value for many years to come. And so NOTO is anything but fast fashion: using lambskin leather – up to six skins for a travelling bag, for instance – the bags are made to last. NOTO bags, no matter if a classic office bag, a purse or a functional weekender, are bags for life and never just a quick fashion buy.

Koko, for example, is a contemporary leather backpack that NOTO developed for fashion-conscious travellers, commuters and those travelling by bike.“The backpack

is indeed a bag that can be worn on the back,” begins company founder Bernhard Hansl about the design aspect that makes the backpack unique. “The bag adjusts to the wearer’s body no matter if worn on the back, over one shoulder or – thanks to an additional strap – in the hand.” Koko is available in the colours amber and ebony.

Left: Chika, ebony. Photo: © Arnt Haug Middle: Hina, amber. Photo: © Felix Pötzsch Right: Ara and Iyo, amber. Photo: © Arnt Haug Bottom: Nobu, ebony. Photo: © Felix Pötzsch

Bernhard Hansl gets his inspiration from his use of other bags and the realisation sometimes that while they might look good, they consider far too many practical aspects.“My bags are minimalist and purist not only in design, but also in their functionality,” explains Bernhard Hansl. Which means that the backpack Koko, for example, does not have compartment after compartment for the sake of it, but rather gives the user an appropriate selection of pockets that one might normally need. www.edition-noto.de

A second bag that showcases NOTO’s design aesthetic is the pouch bag Chika, a very feminine shopper with a slim and elegant form. With a functional and wide strap, the bag sits comfortably on the shoulder. It is an ideal bag to carry all one’s daily needs, as well as any new purchases made throughout the day − at the supermarket or the market, for example.

Functionality is as important for NOTO as the overall design, and often enough, Issue 67 | October 2018 | 9

Discover Germany | Design | Dedicated to Design

Dedicated to Design…

On 23 September, autumn officially began in Germany, Europe and the entire northern hemisphere. And what better way to celebrate this awesome season than by redecorating our homes with warm and cosy items and classic autumn tones? Get inspired by our stylish picks that will get you ready for the autumn!

BY: NANE STEINHOFF I PRESS IMAGES

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1. These cute lanterns by the German interior shop Dekoria will result in the perfect autumn ambiance in any garden or inside the house. £POA. www.dekoria.de 2. The right light installations are essential for a cosy home. This stylish copper lamp by VITA COPENHAGEN brings autumnal tones into your home and will ensure a relaxed, warming vibe. £152. www.desiary.de 3. This handmade glass vase by LSA International boasts a beautiful, copper-coloured mirror effect and will be the perfect place for your favourite autumn flowers. Available on desiary.de. £47. www.lsa-international.com 4. What better way is there to spend an autumn evening than on your sofa with a good book and a tasty glass of wine? To make this pastime even more indulgent, you should take a look at this gorgeous cotton blanket by Bloomingville. £21. www.einrichten-design.de

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5. Some candles will bring a much-needed cosiness into every home in autumn. They find their perfect home in this candle holder by the Hamburg-based GIFTCOMPANY. Available on desiary.de. £41. www.gift-company.com

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Discover Germany | Design | Swiss Children’s Universe

TEXT: JESSICA HOLZHAUSEN I PHOTOS: BOARD GAME BOX

Autumn game fairs:

Spielemessen im Herbst:

discovering the newest board games

Die neuesten Spiele entdecken und testen

This autumn, the Swiss publisher Board Game Box will present its range of games at game fairs in Germany and Switzerland – the Herofest Bern, the SPIEL 2018 Essen, the TPPL Games day and the Zurich Game Show. Among the games that fair visitors can try out, are games licensed from the board game publishers Ankama, Matagot, Japanime Games and Medusa Games.

Der Schweizer Spieleverlag Board Game Box präsentiert im Herbst seine neuesten Spiele auf Spielemessen in Deutschland und der Schweiz: dem Herofest Bern, der SPIEL 2018 Essen, dem TPPL Games Day und der Zurich Game Show. Unter den deutschsprachigen Spielen, die Messebesucher testen können, sind Lizenzen der Spieleverlage Ankama, Matagot, Japanime Games und Medusa Games.

“For us, every trade fair is unique,” says Michael Zimmerli, who founded Board Game Box together with his wife Swetlana and presents their games at various international game fairs every year. “It is important for me when I see people laughing while playing our games, and saying great things about them like: ‘This a really cool game’,” says Zimmerli.

„Jede Messe ist für uns einzigartig“, sagt Michael Zimmerli, der Board Game Box gemeinsam mit seiner Frau Swetlana gegründet hat und jedes Jahr auf mehreren internationalen Messen vertreten ist. „Wichtig ist es für mich, wenn ich am Stand beim Spielen ein Lachen höre und Aussagen wie: „,Das ist aber ein cooles Spiel’“, sagt Zimmerli.

“We are showcasing the games Room 25 Ultimate, Dice Town refresh, Dragons, Tanto Cuore Oktoberfest, Brothers, Magnificent Flying Machines and more.” Players can go treasure hunting in Dragons or become participants of a futuristic TV show when playing Room 25 Ultimate: as a team, they have to escape a labyrinth of deadly rooms and find the exit. With a variable board and different game modes, the game is never boring – even if played frequently.

Dice Town is a competitive dice game with a Wild West theme for the whole family. Another exciting game for families is Brothers, which can be played by two players, or by four players as teams.

„Wir zeigen auf den Messen die Spiele Room 25 Ultimate, Dice Town refresh, Dragons, Tanto Cuore Oktoberfest, Brothers, Magnificent Flying Machines und vieles mehr“. Spieler können bei Dragons auf die Jagd nach glänzenden Schätzen gehen oder in Room 25 Ultimate in die Rolle von Teilnehmern einer futuristischen TV-Game-Show schlüpfen: Gemeinsam im Team müssen sie versuchen einem mörderischen Labyrinth aus Räumen zu entkommen und den Ausgang finden. Durch ein variables Spielfeld und verschiedene Spielmodi wird das Spiel auch bei häufigem Spielen nie langweilig.

Dice Town ist ein kompetitives Würfelspiel für die ganze Familie und spielt im Wilden Westen. Ein ebenfalls spannendes Familienspiel ist Brothers, es kann zu zweit oder zu viert in Teams gespielt werden. www.boardgamebox.life

Issue 67 | October 2018 | 11

Discover Germany | Design | Günter Gläser Leuchtenherstellung e. K.

Traditional ‘Schwibbogen’.

Lightened up: Erzgebirge tradition meets contemporary design The Saxon-based light design company Günter Gläser Leuchtenherstellung e. K. takes traditional craft straight into the here and now with its weigla® brand.

TEXT: CORNELIA BRELOWSKI I PHOTOS: GÜNTER GLÄSER LEUCHTENHERSTELLUNG E.K.

To many of us, Erzgebirge motifs are connected with comfort, home and cosy Christmas settings, instantly putting a smile on our faces. The traditional motif arches, candle holders and figurines represent the renowned woodcraft of the Ore Mountains and serve as true mood enhancers for admirers across the world.

For the 2002 founded Günter Gläser light design company, things evolved rapidly when the firm introduced its own weigla® brand five years ago. Particularly their version of the Erzgebirge ‘Schwibbogen’ arches have successfully conquered the design market by combining tradition with the latest in light technology. The overhauled design features a dynamic, asymmetrical form for the LED-lit arches, and the 12 | Issue 67 | October 2018

combination of wood and Plexiglas® with traditional Erzgebirge motifs make for real eye-catchers. Both the modern and the traditional weigla® items are well liked and the brand enjoys many returning customers who value the high quality and individuality of the products.

Due to their innovative approach and traditional awareness, the team at weigla® also frequently receive special customer requests, which they are always happy to meet. Popular on-demand items are, for example, traditional arches with particular town motifs or cityscapes.

While each year brings something new, well-loved traditional objects like window images and tealight holders round up the

permanent selection on offer at weigla®.

All items are continuously available to Erzgebirge fans in specialist stores, at major mail-order companies and, of course, online. From ‘Schwibbogen’ through to romantically lit decorative Christmas items, weigla® customers can find just the right piece for them all year round.

Situated right at the heart of the Erzgebirge region, the company team enjoys introducing visitors to their complete selection at the on-site outlet store in Deutschneudorf. For small groups, guided tours of the production site can also easily be arranged. Or from further afield, you can always follow new ideas and improvements at weigla® on Facebook, or browse their website for the next inspiring birthday or Christmas gift. It is always nice to share the smile!

Web: www.weigla.com Facebook: weigla.leuchten

SPECIAL THEME: TOP WEDDING TRENDS

Everything for that special day Are you or one of your friends planning a wedding? Then be sure to read the following special theme in which we have handpicked some innovative companies that can help you with decorating, finding the right wedding dress and more.

PHOTOS: PIXABAY

Issue 67 | October 2018 | 13

Discover Germany | Special Theme | Top Wedding Trends

Photo: © Matthias Erbel

TEXT: MARILENA STRACKE | PHOTOS: LIEBEVOLL & GEMÜTLICH

Loving and cosy

Liebevoll und gemütlich

The Cologne-based agency Liebevoll & Gemütlich (Loving & Cosy) delivers exactly what it promises with that name.

Edith Gehnert and her team create design concepts for weddings and parties with a great deal of individuality and heart. It is therefore no surprise that Gehnert’s passion for decorating and organising started as far back as when she was a young child.

Die Kölner Agentur Liebevoll & Gemütlich ist genau das, was sie verspricht. Mit viel Individualität und Leidenschaft entwirft Edith Gehnert und ihr Team Design-Konzepte für Hochzeiten und Feste. Dass hier jemand schon von klein auf eine echte Liebe fürs Dekorieren und Organisieren hatte, merkt man sofort.

As its name suggests, Edith Gehnert’s agency looks for the individual, the tender and the cosy. The results are unique decoration packages which are thought-through down to the smallest detail.

Bei der Agentur von Edith Gehnert geht es um das Individuelle, das Liebvolle, das Gemütliche. Eben wie der Name schon sagt. Das Resultat sind einzigartige Dekorationspakete, die bis ins kleinste Detail abgestimmt sind.

“Aside from full individual packages, which include everything from the idea for the theme to the colour scheme, we also offer smaller packages or rent out decoration,” explains Edith. “Although we are not wedding planners, we are happy to support customers with our expertise and our network of locations, DJ’s and graphic designers.”

„Wir bieten neben kompletten individuellen Dekorationskonzepten, also von der Idee des Themas oder der Farbwelt, auch kleinere Dekorationspakete oder den Verleih unserer Dekorationsartikel an“, erklärt Edith. „Auch wenn wir kein Wedding-Planer sind, unterstützen wir gerne mit unserer Expertise und unserem Netzwerk aus Locations, DJs und Grafikdesignern.“

According to Edith, many couples like to plan and craft every aspect of their wedding themselves, but often, it is too big a challenge, especially since you want and need to enjoy your own wedding day.“That’s where we love to help out,”smiles Edith.

Interior design concepts are another part of the agency – and with them, they know precisely how to bring stylish cosiness to every home or venue. The new online rental shop is the latest addition to their full offering, and Edith concludes by summarising: “We stand for a loving and cosy atmosphere right from the start.”

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Sie erzählt, dass viele Brautpaare einfach gerne selbst planen und basteln, was aber meistens eine zu große Herausforderung darstellt, denn schließlich will man gleichzeitig seinen eigenen Hochzeitstag genießen. „Hier kommen wir ins Spiel und unterstützen gerne“, lächelt Edith.

Auch bei Einrichtungskonzepten berät die Agentur gerne und bringt stylische Gemütlichkeit direkt nach Hause. Der neue Online-Verleih-Shop rundet das Angebot wunderbar ab und Edith fügt hinzu: „Wir stehen eben für eine liebevolle und gemütliche Atmosphäre von Anfang an.“ www.gemuetlich-koeln.com

L I E B E VO LL & GEMÜTL I CH

— Individuelle Hochzeitsdekorationen und Verleih Photo: © Capture life Photography

Ihre Hochzeit soll der schönste Tag in Ihrem Leben werden, den Sie in vollen Zügen und ohne Hektik genießen können? Ihre Individualität als Paar soll sich auch in der liebevollen Dekoration widerspiegeln?

Dabei möchten wir Sie gerne unterstützen!

Weblink: www.liebevoll-gemuetlich.de Liebevoll & Gemütlich - info@liebevoll-gemuetlich.de

Discover Germany | Special Theme | Top Wedding Trends

Brautmode in romantischem Ambiente Brautmoden Claudia im Schloss ist ein besonderes Brautmodengeschäft: Im Herzen des Untermeitinger Schlosses gelegen und seit mehr als 30 Jahren in Familienbesitz, erfüllt das engagierte Team Traumkleiderwünsche aller Art – sympathisch, ehrlich und professionell.

Brautkleid von White One by St. Patrick.

TEXT: JESSICA HOLZHAUSEN I FOTOS: BRAUTMODEN CLAUDIA IM SCHLOSS

„Bei uns soll sich die Braut rundum wohl fühlen“, sagt Anika Knoke, die Brautmoden Claudia im Schloss gemeinsam mit Simone Daschner betreibt. Ein herzliches Ambiente ist dem ganzen Team wichtig: „Mit einer fachkundigen, freundlichen und ehrlichen Beratung und viel Einfühlungsvermögen geben wir der Braut Sicherheit. Mit diesem Gefühl möchten wir sie bis zum großen Tag begleiten.“ Oft haben die Bräute bereits ein bestimmtes Kleid oder einen bestimmten Stil im Kopf und so versuchen die Berater ein entsprechendes Kleid zu finden, das der „Braut rundum schmeichelt und sie perfekt in Szene setzt“.

Die beiden heutigen Besitzer haben nach Übernahme dem Geschäft ein neu-

es Gesicht gegeben. Denn seit Gründung hat sich nicht nur die Brautmode verändert, sondern auch das Ambiente und die Hochzeit an sich. „Die Braut von heute will sexy aussehen mit tiefen Ausschnitten am Dekolletee, am Rücken und am Bein.

Viel Haut und auch ein Hauch von Spitze, kombiniert mit fließend, leichten Stoffen ist heute Trend.“ Das Team von Brautmoden Claudia im Schloss rät Bräuten nicht mehr als drei Begleitpersonen zur Anprobe mitzubringen, damit am Ende auch wirklich der Wunsch der Braut gehört wird: „In dieser angenehmen intimen Atmosphäre ist es am Ende alleine die Braut, die sich für ihr Traumkleid entscheidet.“ www.brautmoden-claudia.de

Einblick in Brautmoden Claudia im Schloss.

GE N LE UIN AT HE E R

A L L O W YO U R S E L F SOME LUXURY W W W . M AT T I O L I - B A G S . D E

SPECIAL THEME: INTERIOR DESIGN TRENDS 2018

Creativity, know-how and talent Those are the pillars of superb interior design. But what are this year’s top interior design trends? The following pages give an exciting insight into what is ‘en vogue’ in 2018.

TEXT: MARILENA STRACKE | PHOTOS: PIXABAY

Issue 67 | October 2018 | 17

Discover Germany | Special Theme | Interior Design Trends 2018

KFF provides seating comfort at the cocktail bar and in the restaurant area of the Bootshaus Grill & Bar in Hamburg.

TEXT: SILKE HENKELE I PHOTOS: ANJA TISCHLER

Distinctive and individual designer furniture for home and commercial use KFF has been developing, producing and selling products with a highly independent design standard since 1984. The company, based in Lemgo, Ostwestfalen-Lippe, offers an extensive collection of high-quality seating furniture and tables for commercial premises and private homes − suitable for dining, high-dining and lounging.

The design of KFF furniture is pure, unobtrusive and geared towards a long service life. Comfort and quality are fundamental components of KFF products.

KFF will present the GAIA chair conceived

by Italian designer Monica Armani, and the NIGHTINGALE table designed by Nick Pyka of RohDesign, for the first time in Germany at the Orgatec exhibition to be held in Cologne.

Monica Armani has achieved a masterpiece in terms of aesthetics and comfort with the GAIA model and provided KFF with a 18 | Issue 67 | October 2018

piece of furniture that leaves nothing to be desired. The designer chair has been nominated for the German Design Award 2019.

The future model range will consist of a chair, bar stool, bench and lounger − exactly as KFF is accustomed to, in order to meet holistic furnishing requirements in both the private and commercial sectors.

The NIGHTINGALE‘s solid oak table top, which has been hand-crafted with an elegant axe-finish, is proudly supported by four tapered, flat-rolled steel legs, which give it its visual lightness. The table, designed by Nick Pyka of RohDesign,

demonstrates the perfect symbiosis of flat steel and solid oak.

KFF designer furniture has also delivered outstanding results in the commercial sector thanks to its high quality standards and durability. International architectural offices and interior design studios who opt for individual and authentic furniture, will always make an unmistakable statement with KFF.

Discover Germany | Special Theme | Interior Design Trends 2018

Aussagekräftige und individuelle Designmöbel für Zuhause und den Objektbereich Das Unternehmen KFF entwickelt, produziert und vertreibt seit 1984 Produkte mit einem hohen eigenständigen Designanspruch. Das Unternehmen aus Lemgo in Ostwestfalen Lippe bietet eine umfangreiche Kollektion an hochwertigen Sitzmöbeln und Tischen für Objekte und den privaten Wohnbereich an – dining, high dining und lounging.

Möbel von KFF sind in ihrem Design pur und unaufdringlich und auf eine lange Lebensdauer ausgelegt. Komfort und Qualität sind elementarer Bestandteil von KFF-Produkten.

Bank und Lounger gebildet - ganz wie man es von KFF gewohnt ist, um ganzheitliche Einrichtungsanforderungen im privaten als auch im Objektbereich erfüllen zu können.

Auf der Kölner Messe Orgatec präsentiert KFF erstmals in Deutschland den von der italienischen Designerin Monica Armani entworfenen Stuhl GAIA und den von Nick Pyka - Rohdesign gestalteten Tisch NIGHTINGALE.

Die von Hand mit der Axt beschlagene, massive Eichenplatte des NIGHTINGALE wird stolz von vier konisch zulaufenden, geöffneten Flachstahlbeinen getragen und erhält dadurch seine optische Leichtigkeit. Der von Nick Pyka -Rohdesign entworfene Tisch zeigt das perfekte Zusammenspiel von Flachstahl und massiver Eiche.

Monica Armani hat mit dem Modell GAIA eine Meisterleistung in Bezug auf die Ästhetik und den Komfort abgeliefert und KFF ein Möbel beschert, das am Ende keine Wünsche offen lässt. Der Designstuhl ist für den German Design Award 2019 nominiert. Die zukünftige Modellfamilie wird aus Stuhl, Barstuhl,

turstudios entscheiden sich für individuelle und authentische Möbel und setzen mit KFF ein unverwechselbares Statement. www.kff.de

Durch den hohen Qualitätsanspruch und die Langlebigkeit haben sich die KFF Designmöbel auch im Objektbereich bewiesen. Internationale Architekturbüros und Innenarchitek-

So zum Beispiel auch in der Stadtbibliothek Heidenheim. Die wertvolle Zeit, die die Literaturliebhaber in ihrer Bibliothek verbringen, um zu lesen, wird mit KFF ein Erlebnis von höchstem Komfort. Leise, Lesen, Loungen – KFF.

Issue 67 | October 2018 | 19

Discover Germany | Special Theme | Interior Design Trends 2018

Drinks cabinet HARRI, Design: Peter Fehrentz, 2018.

LAX Table, Design: Gil Coste, 2014.

BLOW Bench, Design: Bernhard Müller, 2012.

LUZ Chair, Design: Bernhard Müller, 2017.

TEXT: MARILENA STRACKE I PHOTOS: PETER FEHRENTZ

Furniture with timeless architecture, designed in Hamburg

Hamburger Möbelstücke mit zeitlosem Design

Led by founder and architect Bernhard Müller, furniture label [more] has been creating high-quality tables, chairs, beds and storage solutions since 1993. With a special focus on sustainability, Müller and his team find innovative solutions with an individual touch.

Seit 1993 designt das Möbel-Label [more], geführt von Gründer und Architekt Bernhard Müller, hochwertige Tische, Stühle, Betten und Aufbewahrungsmöbel. Mit einem besonderen Fokus auf Nachhaltigkeit finden Müller und sein Team innovative Lösungen mit individuellem Touch.

The right interplay between object and its environment is the foundation for Bernhard Müller’s creations. Clear ideas, smart functions and timeless shapes are merged with top-quality materials, resulting in long-lasting furniture that remains a great companion for many years. “Our furniture is meant to allow freedom for individual design instead of dominating spaces,” Müller explains.

Das richtige Zusammenspiel von Objekt und Umgebung ist die Basis für Bernhard Müllers Kreationen. Klare Ideen, smarte Funktionen und zeitlose Formen gepaart mit hochwertigen Materialen führen zu Möbelstücken, die jahrelang ein guter Begleiter sind. „Unsere Möbel sollen Freiheiten für individuelle Gestaltung schaffen, statt Räume zu dominieren“, erklärt Müller.

The LAX collection is a wonderful example. It is an homage to Cuba and to the sophisticated hotel interiors of the 1950s. Familiar and particularly clear forms are combined with new surfaces: the LAX table’s tobacco-coloured steel frame with its distinctive crossed legs carries a heavy top made of smoked oak.

All [more] creations use slow-grown wood sourced from sustainable forestry in Germany, France and the USA. While the wood is being processed, importance is placed on rest periods to develop surfaces that are particularly durable. Whenever possible, additional material is also produced organically.

Müller concludes: “We are convinced that substantial design must make no compromises when it comes to the quality of materials.”

20 | Issue 67 | October 2018

Die LAX Kollektion ist ein wunderbares Beispiel. Sie ist eine Hommage an Kuba und an die mondänen Hotelausstattungen der 1950er Jahre. Hier werden vertraute und vor allem klare Formen mit neuen Oberflächen kombiniert: Beim LAX Tisch schultert das tabakfarben lackierte Stahlgestell mit den markanten X-Beinen eine massive Platte aus Räuchereiche.

Bei allen [more] Kreationen stammt das langsam gewachsene Holz aus nachhaltiger Forstwirtschaft in Deutschland, Frankreich und den USA. Auch bei der Verarbeitung wird Wert auf Ruhepausen gelegt, so dass besonders langlebige Oberflächen entstehen. Weitere Materialien sind ebenfalls soweit wie möglich ökologisch produziert.

Müller fügt hinzu: „Wir sind überzeugt, dass substanzielles Design keine Kompromisse in der Qualität des Materials machen darf.“ www.more-moebel.de

Discover Germany | Special Theme | Interior Design Trends 2018

The first-class hotel Manoir de Lébioles in Belgian Spa uses luxurious wallpaper with glass bead applications by designer Ulf Moritz. Photo: © Soenne

All wallpapers of the collection HOURS are handmade, every single one is unique. Producing this wallpaper takes several days. Photo: © Marburger Tapetenfabrik

TEXT: MARILENA STRACKE

Tradition meets art

Tradition trifft Kunst

Founded in 1845, the Marburg Wallpaper Factory is one of the most traditional and prominent wallpaper manufacturers in Europe. During the past few decades, the family business has helped shape the development of wall covering to the artistic and extraordinary style element that it is today.

Die 1845 gegründete Marburger Tapetenfabrik zählt zu den traditionsreichsten und bedeutendsten Tapetenherstellern Europas. Das Familienunternehmen hat in den vergangenen Jahrzehnten die Entwicklung der Wandbekleidung zum gleichermaßen künstlerischen wie außergewöhnlichen Stilelement maßgeblich geprägt.

Led by the fifth generation of the family, the company is not only known for its various technical innovations but also for its fascinating history regarding its collaborations with artists and designers. During the 1920s, graphic designer and pioneer of the Bauhaus movement as well as representative of modern art Hans Leistikow, designed the settlement wallpaper for the Marburg Wallpaper Factory. In the beginning of the 1970s, the wall coverings by Niki de Saint Phalle and Allen Jones attracted international attention. This spectacular X-Art-Collection was part of the fifth documenta in Kassel.

Das in der fünften Generation geführte Unternehmen ist neben zahlreichen technischen Innovationen bekannt für eine faszinierende Geschichte in der Zusammenarbeit mit Künstlern und Designern. Bereits in den 1920er-Jahren entwarf der Grafiker und Vordenker der BauhausBewegung Hans Leistikow als Vertreter der Moderne die Siedlungstapete für die Marburger Tapetenfabrik. Anfang der 70er-Jahre erregten die Wandkleider von Niki de Saint Phalle und Allen Jones internationales Aufsehen. Diese spektakuläre X-Art-Kollektion war Teil der fünften documenta in Kassel.

More recently, designers such as Luigi Colani, Ulf Moritz and Karim Rashid, as well as the exceptional architect Zaha Hadid, designed collections for the Marburg Wallpaper Factory, which were always an expression of the creative development of that time. The family business’ wall coverings can be found in premium hotels around the world. They enrich the atmosphere of gourmet restaurants and become the stage for exclusive interiors in the private sector.

Jan Becker, owner of Becker Interior with stores in Cologne, Ibiza and New York, says: “We only work with the best of each profession. Marburg as a supplier of sophisticated wallpaper is a core element of our portfolio.”

In der jüngeren Firmengeschichte entwickelten Designer wie Luigi Colani, Ulf Moritz und Karim Rashid sowie die Ausnahmearchitektin Zaha Hadid Kollektionen für die Marburger Tapetenfabrik, die immer zum Ausdruck gestalterischer Entwicklungen ihrer Zeit wurden. Die Wandkleider des Familienunternehmens finden sich in Premiumhotels auf der ganzen Welt, sie veredeln das Ambiente in der gehobenen Gastronomie und bilden im Privatbereich Bühne für exklusives Interieur.

Jan Becker, Inhaber von Becker Interior mit Filialen in Köln, Ibiza und New York, sagt: „Wir arbeiten nur mit den Besten aus ihrem jeweiligen Fach partnerschaftlich zusammen. Marburg als Lieferant außergewöhnlicher Tapeten ist ein fester Bestandteil unseres Portefeuilles.“

www.marburg.com Issue 67 | October 2018 | 21

22 | Issue 67 | October 2018

Discover Germany | Cover Feature | Sebastian Koch

Sebastian Koch

An homage to art’s liberating power Sebastian Koch is back – with Werk ohne Autor (Never Look Away), a gripping drama, a tragic family story, an exciting thriller and an homage to the liberating power of art all in one. Discover Germany speaks to Koch about the new film that has just recently been nominated as Germany’s Oscar contender in the Best Foreign Language Film category, his busy schedule, his love for Berlin and more.

TEXT: NANE STEINHOFF | PHOTOS: TILL BRÖNNER

He is one of Germany’s biggest actors and exports to Hollywood. Known for his roles in the likes of the Oscar-winning film The Lives of Others, Stauffenberg, Bridge of Spies, Homeland and A Good Day to Die Hard, Sebastian Koch has worked with Tom Hanks, Steven Spielberg, Bruce Willis and Julianne Moore, amongst many others.

But let us go back to the very start. It all began in Karlsruhe, where Koch was born and grew up. He recalls: “I actually came across acting quite late. I was a passionate guitar player and was about to produce an album with a friend when acting downright intervened. My girlfriend loved to go to the theatre and through her, I got to know theatre’s unbelievable power which immediately captured me and which I then had to follow. I knew that this was my form of expression and that I had to go along with it. The guitar is still by my side – but I only use it occasionally.” Today, German and international audiences can be glad that Koch decided against playing guitar professionally, as he now captures the attention of people all over the world with gripping portrayals of stories on screen.

“Then I feel like I’m in the right place” “The Lives of Others was a turning point for me in many ways,” explains Koch. “It’s a dream of every actor to be part of such

an exceptional project. Through the Oscar, entirely new possibilities then came about.

The English market suddenly opened up and for someone that chooses their scripts as carefully as me, this is a great gift. In the German film industry, The Lives of Others has certainly ensured that German actors don’t solely get the roles of blonde, blueeyed supporting characters in American Nazi-movies. This might seem normal today but wasn’t at all the norm in the past.”

Koch is known for great roles of contradictory characters and feelings which often implement social criticisms in fascinating ways. Not one to be put in one corner, Koch has played a variety of different parts and never shied away from the difficult and ugly ones, such as Andreas Baader in Heinrich Breloer’s Todesspiel. The actor explains: “I choose roles that I really want to experience myself and which fit in with my current life. When the script, the director and the partners fit, I confirm the role. For example, when I got the offer for playing in Sea Wolf, I confirmed without hesitation – simply a dream role. I think the roles that stuck with me the most have been the ones the furthest away. Maybe the journey there has been the most exciting part as it has so little to do with me. To create Professor Seeband (Werk ohne Autor) with all of his discipline, his power consciousness and his toughness, has been something rather spe-

cial for me. The man wears his suits like a uniform, his posture is bolt upright. He’s a man that uses language as a weapon and can destroy his enemies with it. I’m pretty much the opposite of this. When I then see a person like this on screen, I can hardly recognise myself in him,” Koch says.

Florian Henckel von Donnersmarck’s new drama Werk ohne Autor is about the dramatic life of artist Kurt (Tom Schilling), his passionate love for Elisabeth (Paula Beer) and the momentous relationship he has with his father-in-law Professor Seeband (Koch). Coming to German cinemas on 3 October, it is an emotional rollercoaster ride through three epochs of German history, which examines the madness and tragedy of the 20th century.

It is a gripping drama about the life of artist Gerhard Richter, a tragic family story, an exciting thriller and an homage to the liberating power of art.

Koch explains: “At the core of the movie lies the clash of two men who don’t have anything in common at first sight – both brilliant minds who couldn’t be more different and have opposing views of life and the world. On the one hand, we have the young artist Kurt Barnert searching for his voice with a ravenous appetite for life which he filters through his artistic soul; the confident Professor Seeband on the other hand, has a vast knowledge but is emotionally impoverished.

The irony is that both are masters in their respective fields but can’t be compatible with each other. The story lets them live together under one roof after Kurt marries Seeband’s daughter – conflicts are preprogrammed. It is a wonderful story Issue 67 | October 2018 | 23

Discover Germany | Cover Feature | Sebastian Koch

about the essence of inspiration and the power of art. Kurt Barnert’s life makes it clear that humans are comprised of an almost alchemistic ability to transform bad things that happen to us into something good. An unmistakable relationship with The Lives of Others is apparent but presented on a much bigger screen.”

Koch believes that art and the film industry can change the world – even in today’s world where Trump, ignorance and rightwing populism seem to have become the norm. “The Lives of Others, as well as Werk ohne Autor put these topics in focus. If I wouldn’t believe in film’s ability to change the world, I wouldn’t be able to make these movies with that much passion. The Lives of Others has touched so many people and stimulated thinking – still today, I receive loving reactions. If a film can achieve that

and I’m part of it, then I feel like I’m in the right place.”

“Germany is and will always be my home” Koch has just visited Toronto, where Werk ohne Autor was presented at a festival. Before that, he was in Venice. How does the actor deal with constant travelling and being on the move? “I try to integrate long breaks from time to time. The way I immerse myself in the work almost doesn’t allow for a different life so that I have to watch out to not lose myself in it,” Koch explains, and adds: “I see the constant travelling and being away from home, my family and friends as unhealthy – one of the reasons why I haven’t taken on a large role since April last year. I have spent a wonderful summer in Berlin and feel really at home here again.”

In fact, Berlin became Koch’s home in 1990 when he got offered a threeyear contract at the Schiller Theatre. He smiles: “Germany is and will always be my home. Even though the German thoroughness and the inflexible reaction to change keeps annoying me, I’m home here. When I first came to Berlin, the city was an island, a very special village far off the world metropolis which it represents today. It was fun to witness Berlin’s transformation with all its highs and lows.

One of the most important moments on this path was the covering of the Reichstag by Christo and his wife. That was the moment Berlin opened up to the world.

This piece of art had such power and I can remember all these people from everywhere in the world meeting in front of this history-laden building – a loving, tolerant togetherness which has further developed until today.”

And what else can we look forward to from the actor besides Werk ohne Autor this year? Koch says: “In September, a movie will come to cinemas in America which I made with Julianne Moore in March last year – Bel Canto, a dramatic love story that follows a famous soprano.

And since August, I have started to read screenplays again. There are some beautiful ones which means that I will most likely get going again next year…!”

Werk ohne Autor (Never Look Away). Photo: © 2018 BUENA VISTA INTERNATIONAL Pergamon Film Wiedemann & Berg Film

Werk ohne Autor (Never Look Away).

Photo: © 2018 BUENA VISTA INTERNATIONAL Pergamon Film Wiedemann & Berg Film

24 | Issue 67 | October 2018

We are already looking forward to it.

Discover Germany | Cover Feature | Sebastian Koch

Issue 67 | October 2018 | 25

Discover Germany | Wine & Dine | Weingut Müller

Drei Generationen - Familie Müller.

Foto: © Philipp Monihart

Nachhaltige Bewirtschaftung der Weingärten im Kremstal.

Foto: © Robert Herbst

Österreichische Spitzenweine seit drei Generationen Das Weingut Müller am Göttweiger Berg im idyllischen Kremstal ist in fester Familienhand. Premiumweine wie Riesling und Grüner Veltliner räumen nicht nur eine Menge Auszeichnungen ab, sondern sind mit ihrer klaren Frucht und Finesse einfach ein absolutes Trink-Highlight für jeden Weinliebhaber.

TEXT: MARILENA STRACKE

Im Weingut Müller wird Familie großgeschrieben. Hier packt jeder mit an: vom Teenager bis zur Großmutter haben alle ihre Lieblingsaufgabe auf dem Weingut.

Vielleicht ist es dieser echte Zusammenhalt gepaart mit der Liebe zum Wein, welche den edlen Tropfen ihren unvergleichlichen Geschmack geben und dafür sorgen, dass sie seit 2007 durchgängig im Salon Österreich Wein vertreten sind – 2018 sogar mit drei Weinen unter den Landesbesten.

Dazu kommt natürlich das Know-How aus jahrzehntelanger Erfahrung seit der Gründung im Jahr 1936. Großvater Leopold steht seinen Söhnen Leopold und Stefan bei jeder Herausforderung im 110 Hektar großen Weingut tatkräftig zur Seite. Auch das Thema Nachhaltigkeit spielt eine große Rolle. Es werden strenge Kriterien eingehalten, damit kontinuierlich die Zertifizierung ‚NACHHALTIG AUSTRIA‘ erreicht wird.

26 | Issue 67 | October 2018

Das Resultat sind Weine mit fruchtiger Eleganz. Besonders beliebt sind die Klassiker Grüner Veltliner Ried Kremser Kogl Kremstal 2017 und der Riesling Ried Further Silberbichl Kremstal 2017, wie die Brüder Leopold und Stefan Müller Modernste Kellertechnik gepaart mit langjährigem Know-How führen zu stetig hoher Weinqualität.

Foto: © Robert Herbst

erzählen: „Die beiden Top-Seller unseres Weingutes haben heuer ganz schön abgeräumt: GV Kogl hat mit seiner frischen Frucht und feinen Würze den NÖ Landessieg geholt und unser präziser Riesling Silberbichl mit seiner saftigen Steinobstfrucht überzeugte die Verkoster beim internationalen Magazin Decanter mit 95 Punkten und einer Goldmedaille!“ Bleibt nur noch eins: Selbst probieren! www.weingutmueller.at

Rosé aus der Provinz.

Saftabzug vom Pinot Noir, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot. Ausgebaut in französischer Eiche. 13% Alkohol.

Rosé für Erwachsene.

Nur zu bekommen im wirklich gut sortierten Fachhandel oder über www.duernberg-direkt.at.

28 | Issue 67 | October 2018

Discover Germany | Star Interview | Anne-Catrin Märzke

Anne-Catrin Märzke “History lessons should be top priority” Best known for roles in Justice, SOKO Wismar and Gute Zeiten, Schlechte Zeiten, German actress Anne-Catrin Märzke speaks to Discover Germany about her love for Berlin, her highly topical latest project and much more.

TEXT: NANE STEINHOFF I PHOTO: URBAN RUTHS

Why did you choose to become an actress? How did that come about and why is acting your dream profession?

Anne-Catrin Märzke: I grew up in the theatre and when your entire surroundings are involved in this profession, the logical consequence for me was to become an actress too. It does feel like my calling nonetheless.

You currently live in Berlin. Why is the city your chosen home?

Anne-Catrin Märzke: What I love about Berlin is that you can newly discover it over and over again. Every time I cycle through Berlin I discover new places and shops. This keeps my relationship with Berlin fresh and exciting. Furthermore, Berlin is futureoriented and sets a good example in many things. The city poses as a place for cultural dialogue and has the most diverse culinary and cultural offerings. For me, there’s inspiration on every street corner.

You are also a successful singer and have been on an international tour with the American band Kamelot. If you only had to choose one, would you stick with singing or acting?

Anne-Catrin Märzke: If I had to choose, I would stick with acting – then I could sometimes sing the lines when nobody’s watching. (laughs) You are especially known from Gute Zeiten, Schlechte Zeiten, but were also seen in the rock musical Hinterm Horizont, in SOKO Wismar and in Justice. Which role do you remember the most and why?

Anne-Catrin Märzke: As I played Hinterm Horizont around 700 times, the staging’s set

movements and processes still come automatically to me when I listen to a song from Udo Lindenberg on the radio. This is rather funny to observe.

Why do you think Gute Zeiten, Schlechte Zeiten has been running for so long, personally? What is the special appeal of this soap?

Anne-Catrin Märzke: I think they have a perfect broadcasting slot. Additionally, the stories are authentic and from everyday life so that everyone can recognise oneself and empathise. It also stays exciting because this format doesn’t shy away from taboo topics.

Recently, you celebrated the premiere of your staged reading of Empfänger Unbekannt, which is based on Kressman Taylor’s epistolary novel, about the end of a friendship between two German-American businessmen at the beginning of the Nazi regime. In what way are the topics covered here still relevant today? Which message lies behind it?

Anne-Catrin Märzke: As we can see from current events, history lessons should be top priority in schools. I have brought the project Empfänger Unbekannt (Address Unknown), written by Kathrine Kressmann Taylor, on stage, to tell the story of the politically deranged friendship between Max, Gisela and Martin in the 1930s. The feedback for the first performance was brilliant as people noticed that there are unfortunately still many similarities between past and present and that there are no real winners in a war. In a time where social divides and political unrests are increasing,

Empfänger Unbekannt speaks of the power and danger of words which this book describes like no other. The staged reading with my colleague, Thaddäus Meilinger, can be seen from 27 September onwards in Berlin’s ‘Theater unterm Dach’, in Leipzig and other German cities.

What else can we look forward to from you in 2018?

Anne-Catrin Märzke: From November, I will play Susanna in the theatre play Alle unter eine Tanne in the Comödie Dresden, alongside great colleagues like Hartmut Schreier (Soko 5113), Uta Schorn (In aller Freundschaft), Heidi Weigelt (Hinter Gittern) and Thorsten Feller (Verliebt in Berlin). I love Dresden and the piece is super funny – an annual family meeting at Christmas where Susanna’s parents pretend an idealworld-scenario even though they have secretly separated a few years ago. But this time the bomb is about to explode as both new partners want to have a say and Susanna and her sister have something to hide too…

What other wishes and dreams do you still have?

Anne-Catrin Märzke: That vegetarian and vegan restaurants will become more selfevident, that play streets will become fashionable again and that the ‘Land der Tiere’ from my home state of MecklenburgWestern Pomerania – a farm for animals that have been saved from feedlots or have been brought here by struggling owners – will be also present in other federal states.

DATES - Empfänger Unbekannt:

- Sunday, 7 October: Felsenkeller, Leipzig - Monday, 8 October: Felsenkeller, Leipzig - Tuesday, 9 October: Felsenkeller, Leipzig - Saturday, 13 October: Theater unterm Dach, Berlin - Sunday, 14 October: Theater unterm Dach, Berlin For more dates, please visit: www.empfaenger-unbekannt.de

Issue 67 | October 2018 | 29

Discover Germany | Culture | Switzerland’s Men’s Affairs – Indulgence and Lifestyle

The annual auctions.

For the love of nostalgia Four times a year, vintage fans flock to Zurich to celebrate the DolderClassics – a special meeting place for classic car enthusiasts. Enjoying a great variety of vintage cars and the passion for bygone eras is at the core of this inspiring event.

No wonder then, that it attracts steadily rising numbers of visitors.

TEXT: NANE STEINHOFF I PHOTOS: MARIANNE HEFTI

“Ferrari 250 SWBs meet Döschwos at the DolderClassics,” smiles the event’s organiser Christoph Lehmann, emphasising the broad variety of classic cars found at the event. As a result of the great need for joint and multi-brand meetings of Zurich’s ever-growing classic car community, the first DolderClassics was held on 8 May in 2011. “With DolderClassics, we wanted to give the growing scene of classic car fans a meeting point and a face, while also providing a platform for other parties interested in this topic,” recalls Lehmann. This idea has proven to be a real success. Today, the DolderClassics are held on Sundays four times a year – and visitor numbers are 30 | Issue 67 | October 2018

steadily rising each time. Open to owners of vehicles with veteran status and at least 30 years on the road, as well as classic car fans without their own cars, visitors can look forward to an exciting side programme and exceptional vehicles with two, three or more wheels.

five-star Dolder Grand hotel. Here, on the historic premises with a beautiful park, visitors can enjoy the outdoor pool, the openair ice rink and the local recreation area.

But let us go back to the DolderClassics and explore more of what makes the event itself so special. Lehmann explains: “The DolderClassics are a meeting point and exchange platform at the same time. We even have classic car auctions on offer, which have proven to be especially popu-

Special atmosphere meets special cars In close proximity to Zurich – the city with the highest concentration of classic cars worldwide – many collectors, classic car fans and industry professionals meet on the ice rink in the unique atmosphere of the legendary Dolder Bad outdoor pool, which is situated right behind the luxury

Also with prominence: Dieter Meier from Yello.

Discover Germany | Culture | Switzerland’s Men’s Affairs – Indulgence and Lifestyle

lar. And, of course, the cars themselves are a highlight for most. We don’t just have the usual classics on display, you can often find the really rare and precious ones here too.” Also unique, is the fact that companies that look for partners in the vintage classic car scene have the opportunity to get involved directly and participate in the DolderClassics events.

Additional highlights not to be missed Each year, the event impresses with special highlights and an interesting side programme. This year, for example, visitors were met by special attractions that were coined by Porsche’s 70-year-anniversary. Furthermore, visitors can look forward to great culinary treats, the Champagne

bar, annual auctions and the additional Concorso d’eleganza in Ascona or the Concours d’élégance in Zurich. The two latter events are special meetings for luxury classic cars, where 50 selected automobiles compete for a classic car award.

If you are interested in finding out more about the attraction of cars and bikes, while learning about the controllable mechanics and driving dynamics beyond modern assistance systems, you will be right at home at the DolderClassics. Amidst a great variety of automobile rarities of past decades, men, women and entire car-make clubs can indulge in the beguiling shapes and the lovely smell of leather, wood, oil and petrol, while enjoying interesting talks and

discussions with friendly and relaxed people. DolderClassics is quite simply a huge cultural event of a niche kind, that should not be missed!

More information can be found on the following websites. www.dolderclassics.ch www.zcca.ch www.a-cca.ch DATES 2019: - Sunday, 12 May 2019 - Sunday, 16 June 2019 - Sunday, 11 August 2019 - Sunday, 8 September 2019

A great diversity of vehicles from Switzerland and abroad.

The additional Concorso d’eleganza in Ascona.

A platform for partners.

The additional Concorso d’eleganza in Ascona.

Concours d’élégance in Zurich, Zurich Classic Car Award.

A platform for companies and partners.

Issue 67 | October 2018 | 31

Discover Germany | Culture | Archäologisches Museum Frankfurt

Left: Ceramic fragment with grape depiction, Khramis Didi Gora, Kvemo Kartli region, 6000-5200 BC. Top middle: Spoons and handles from Aruchlo, 5800-5500 BC. Bottom middle: Golden lion figure from a burial mound in Tsnori. Right: Clay storage vessel for wine from Kwazchelebi, 3400-2500 BC. Photo: S. Hansen, © Deutsches Archäologisches Institut

TEXT: JESSICA HOLZHAUSEN | PHOTOS: J. MEYER, © ARCHÄOLOGISCHES MUSEUM FRANKFURT

An exhibition showcasing Ausstellung zeigt Georgiens Georgia’s oldest treasures: älteste Schätze: Wein und Gold wine and gold As part of the guest of honour programme of the Frankfurt Book Fair 2018, the Archäologisches Museum Frankfurt presents the exhibition Gold & Wine: Georgia’s oldest treasures. The exhibition will be open from 6 October 2018 to 10 February 2019 and provides a broad picture of Georgia’s Neolithic period and Bronze Age.

Das Archäologische Museum Frankfurt präsentiert im Rahmen der Frankfurter Buchmesse 2018 die Ausstellung Gold & Wein. Georgiens älteste Schätze. Die Ausstellung läuft vom 06. Oktober 2018 bis zum 10. Februar 2019 und liefert ein umfassendes Bild der Jungsteinzeit und Bronzezeit Georgiens.

Among the exhibits, some of them shown for the very first time, is a golden lion figure.“It is the oldest known small sculpture from the South Caucasus and the oldest known golden lion figure in the world,” explains curator Liane Giemsch. “In nearly every era, the lion has been a favourite subject in art. As early as the Palaeolithic period, depictions of lions or similar feline predators can be found in picture-caves or mobile European craftwork.” In the Bronze Age, the lion became a symbol for royal power. Quite often, depictions of lions were given as burial gifts too.

Zu den zum Teil erstmals gezeigten Originalfunden gehört eine goldene Löwenfigur. „Sie ist die älteste bekannte Kleinplastik des Südkaukasus und ist die älteste goldene Löwenfigur der Welt“, erklärt Ausstellungskuratorin Liane Giemsch. „Der Löwe ist in fast allen Epochen eines der beliebtesten Themen der Kunst. Schon im Paläolithikum finden sich Darstellungen des Löwen oder ähnlicher Raubkatzen in den Bilderhöhlen oder in der mobilen Kleinkunst Europas.“ In der Bronzezeit dient der Löwe dann als Sinnbild für königliche Macht. Oft wurden den Verstorbenen Löwendarstellungen mit ins Grab gegeben.

Georgia is considered the origin of viticulture: for a long time, researchers have discussed the possibility that wine was grown here as early as the Neolithic period. “From the fourth century BC, at the transition to the Bronze Age, a proper wine culture began to establish, which found its expression in the production of large clay storage pots and elaborate drinking vessels,” explains the curator. The Frankfurt exhibition covers this topic broadly.

The exhibition, along with its accompanying programme, was developed in cooperation with the Georgian National Museum and the German Archaeological Institute Berlin.

Georgien gilt als das Ursprungsland des Weins: Lange hat die Forschung darüber diskutiert, ob der Weinanbau hier nicht bereits in der Jungsteinzeit betrieben wurde. „Eine regelrechte Weinkultur entfaltete sich seit dem 4. Jahrtausend v. Chr., im Übergang zur Bronzezeit, was sich auch in Georgien in der entsprechenden Produktion von großen Tongefäßen zur Aufbewahrung des Weins und in kunstvollen Trinkgefäßen zu seinem Konsum ausdrückte“, so die Kuratorin. Und so widmet sich auch die Frankfurter Ausstellung ausgiebig diesem Thema.

Die wissenschaftlich hochaktuelle Ausstellung mit entsprechendem Begleitprogramm entstand in Kooperation mit dem Georgischen Nationalmuseum und dem Deutschen Archäologischen Institut Berlin. www.archaeologisches-museum-frankfurt.de

32 | Issue 67 | October 2018

Discover Germany | Culture | Event Location of the Month

Main building’s lobby.

Plenary hall.

New York hall, main building.

EV E NT L OC ATI ON OF THE MON TH

TEXT: NANE STEINHOFF I PHOTOS: WORLD CONFERENCE CENTER BONN

Flexibility meets incredible service

Flexibilität trifft ServiceGedanke

Looking for a special event location? The World Conference Center Bonn is a unique congress centre. Here, in the former plenary hall of the German Bundestag, one can hold meetings under the iconic eye of the German eagle. And the new main building, which opened in 2015, impresses with its modern, multifunctional premises.

Auf der Suche nach einer Event-Location der Extraklasse?

Das World Conference Center Bonn ist ein einmaliges Kongresszentrum, hier kann man im ehemaligen Plenarsaal des Deutschen Bundestages unter dem Adler tagen. Und das 2015 eröffnete Hauptgebäude überzeugt mit seinen modernen, multifunktionalen Räumlichkeiten.

With its two building complexes (plenary hall and main building), the World Conference Center Bonn offers capacities for events of up to 7,000 people. “Thereby, flexibility is one of our strengths – the main halls’ sizes can be adapted to different event concepts through partition walls. Conference technology and ICT infrastructure meet the highest requirements,” explains business development manager Christina Esser, and adds: “Service plays a crucial role for us. Our task is to ensure that our clients and their guests leave satisfied.” This is possible through competent, extensive consultation and continuous cooperation with numerous service partners for catering and conference technology, for example.

Mit seinen beiden Gebäudekomplexen (Plenargebäude und Hauptgebäude) bietet das World Conference Center Bonn Kapazitäten für Veranstaltungen mit bis zu 7.000 Personen. „Dabei ist Flexibilität eine unserer Stärken - die Größe der Hauptsäle kann mittels Trennwänden den unterschiedlichen Veranstaltungskonzepten angepasst werden. Konferenztechnik und ICT-Infrastruktur entsprechen den höchsten Ansprüchen”, erklärt Christina Esser, Leitung Business Development und fügt hinzu: „Der Service-Gedanke spielt eine große Rolle für uns. Unsere Aufgabe ist es, sicherzustellen, dass unsere Kunden und ihre Gäste zufrieden wieder nach Hause fahren.” Dies ist durch kompetente, umfangreiche Beratung und die erprobte Zusammenarbeit mit diversen Servicepartnern für zum Beispiel Catering und Konferenztechnik möglich.

The World Conference Center Bonn is suitable for a range of Das World Conference Center Bonn eignet sich für eine ganze Bandevents like annual kick-off events, congresses, ceremonies, breite von Events, wie zum Beispiel Jahresauftaktveranstaltungen, works meetings, product presentations, general meetings or Kongresse, Festakte, Betriebsversammlungen, Produktvorstellungen, gala ceremonies. “For example, in recent months the G20 For- Hauptversammlungen oder Gala-Veranstaltungen. „In den letzten Moeign Secretary Meeting, the COP 23 World Climate Confer- naten fanden unter anderem das G20-Außenministertreffen, die Weltence and the SPD Federal Party Conference were all held here, klimakonferenz COP 23 und der SPD-Bundesparteitag bei uns statt“, amongst many others,” reveals Esser. In autumn, erzählt Esser. Im Herbst sind neben anderen Events der www.worldccbonn.com the VDI Congress Dritev, the DOG Congress, the VDI-Kongress Dritev, der DOG-Kongress und der Inc.esser@worldccbonn.com International Family Doctor Day and more are ternationale Hausärztetag geplant. Und vielleicht auch +49 228 9267 1130 planned. And perhaps soon even your event? bald Ihr Event?

Issue 67 | October 2018 | 33

Photo: © Pixabay

SPECIAL THEME: TOP EVENTS IN SWITZERLAND 2018

Something for everyone For those who are currently on the hunt for the perfect congress-, wedding- or meeting venue, we suggest checking out the following offerings in Switzerland, as the country has a vast variety of locations to choose from. Furthermore, the Alpine country is also well-known for playing host to many different events catering to every taste. Therefore, let us take a look at some of Switzerland’s must-visit events this autumn.

TEXT: NANE STEINHOFF

Photo: © Lenk Simmental Tourismus, swiss-image.ch/Andreas Mueller

34 | Issue 67 | October 2018

Discover Germany | Special Theme | Top Events in Switzerland 2018

Photo: © Switzerland Tourism, swiss-image.ch/Christof Sonderegger

Zurich Film Festival (27 September − 7 October) First held in October 2005, the Zurich Film Festival has established itself as a prime festival that is committed to offering a platform for the most promising filmmakers from around the world. Visitors can thus look forward to gaining an insight into the work of young, emerging filmmakers. Various events and parties attract filmmakers and film enthusiasts to Zurich every year around autumn.

Gastronomy festival Mendrisiotto and Basso Ceresio (1 October – 4 November) If you are into culinary highlights, be sure to visit the Mendrisiotto and Lower Ceresio region this autumn. Here, the restaurants have participated in a special tradition for more than 50 years: they offer an extremely wide variety of dishes inspired by the local cuisine, as well as classic seasonal specialities reinterpret-

ed in a modern way. Each dish or menu of the season gives visitors the right to a nice gift and on visiting the eighth restaurant they will receive a fidelity prize.

AlpKultur® Days, Lenk (8 − 21 October) For those visitors that really want to experience what Switzerland is all about, we suggest visiting the two-week Alpine festival, called the AlpKultur® Days. With custom and tradition at its heart, it offers many great events and workshops for visitors. One highlight is the Hornussen tournament, which will showcase one of Switzerland’s traditional team sports.

Drone Champions League, Zurich (11 − 13 October) If you long for a somewhat different experience this autumn, you should head to the Drone Grand Prix Lake Zurich. Here, the world’s best drone pilots will manoeuvre their gadgets at top speed through an

obstacle course around Rapperswil Castle.

Located with an impressive backdrop, the innovative race’s additional programme includes flight simulators, drone-flying courses, children’s workshops and more.

Fête de L’Escalade, Geneva (7 − 9 December) This event commemorates Geneva’s defence against the invasion by the Duke of Savoy in 1603, with a five-mile race through the city’s medieval old town during the week before the main event. The actual event then sees a torchlight procession of over 1,000 marchers in historical costumes. It is a sight not to be missed for tourists and locals alike.

In the following special theme, we take a look at some more of this year’s top events in Switzerland, as well as some of the country’s best event and meeting locations.

Issue 67 | October 2018 | 35

Discover Germany | Special Theme | Top Events in Switzerland 2018

TEXT: SONJA IRANI I PHOTOS: LE CASTEL DE BOIS GENOUD

History, tranquillity, and Geschichte, Gelassenheit organically sourced food und leckeres Bioessen Less than 20 kilometres from Lausanne, the picturesque location of the restaurant Le Castel de Bois Genoud is the perfect place at which to unwind, revitalise and enjoy some high-quality organic food.

Weniger als 20 Kilometer von Lausanne entfernt befindet sich das beschaulich gelegene Restaurant ‚Le Castel de Bois Genoud‘ – der perfekte Ort, um zu entspannen, neue Energie zu tanken und exzellente Biogerichte zu genießen.

Surrounded by over 500-year-old oak trees, the current building of Le Castel was erected in the second half of the 18th century near the village of Crissier. In 1902, it was significantly renovated and, in 1995, Serge Maret unveiled the restaurant as it is known and loved today. Since 2013, Serge’s son Lionel Maret has managed Le Castel, as well as the adjoining farm, the shop and the lands.

Das Gebäude von ‚Le Castel‘ ist umgeben von über 500 Jahre alten Eichenbäumen und wurde in der zweiten Hälfte des 18. Jahrhunderts nahe des Dorfes Crissier errichtet. Im Jahr 1902 wurden umfangreiche Renovierungsarbeiten durchgeführt und 1995 eröffnete Serge Maret schließlich das heutige Restaurant. Seit 2013 leitet Sohn Lionel Maret sowohl das ‚Le Castel‘ als auch den dazugehörigen Bio-Bauernhof, den kleinen Biogladen und die angrenzenden Ländereien.

“Our restaurant is close to the city, yet away from the crowds in a very peaceful area with a beautiful lake view,” says Lionel Maret, when asked what his guests particularly like about his restaurant.

„Unser Restaurant ist nur einen Katzensprung vom Stadtleben entfernt und trotzdem fernab der Massen in einer ruhigen Gegend mit einem wunderschönen Seeblick“, antwortet Lionel Maret auf die Frage, was seine Gäste besonders an seinem Restaurant schätzen.

Furthermore, the restaurant can cater for all special requirements. “We offer a large range of different meat, fish, vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free and lactose-free dishes,” says Maret.“We can also prepare tailor-made meals according to individual requests. There really is something for everyone on our menu!”

Wenn es ums Essen geht, ist für jeden etwas dabei. „Wir bieten eine große Auswahl an verschiedenen Fleisch- und Fischgerichten sowie Gerichten, die vegetarisch, vegan, gluten- oder laktosefrei sind“, erklärt Maret. „Wir bereiten auch gerne Gerichte nach individuellen Gästewünschen zu. So findet garantiert jeder etwas Passendes auf unser Karte!“

In terms of the products, Maret prefers those from the restaurant’s own organic farm. “But if we don’t find them here, we always search for other organic suppliers or check where we will get the best available quality on the market.”

Für die Zubereitung bevorzugt Maret die Produkte des restauranteigenen biologischen Bauernhofs. „Falls wir dort aber keine geeigneten Produkte finden, fragen wir bei Biozulieferern in der Nähe nach oder schauen, wo wir Bioprodukte mit der höchstmöglichen Qualität bekommen.“ www.boisgenoud.ch

36 | Issue 67 | October 2018

Discover Germany | Special Theme | Top Events in Switzerland 2018

Foyer for creative breaks at GriwaCongress.

Smaller seminar rooms for 24 people upstairs.

GriwaCongress Center Silberhorn in Grindelwald.

TEXT: MARILENA STRACKE I PHOTOS: GRIWAPLAN AG

All-round service for conferences and events in Grindelwald

All-round Service für Konferenzen und Events in Grindelwald

The Swiss GriwaCongress Center not only provides top-notch modern spaces for seminars and conferences, its team can also completely plan and organise entire events.

Das Schweizer GriwaCongress Center stellt nicht nur top moderne Räumlichkeiten für Seminare und Konferenzen zur Verfügung, sondern kann auf Wunsch auch ganze Events vollständig planen und organisieren.

The location of the GriwaCongress Center Silbernhorn, right at the bottom of the Eiger North Face in scenic Grindelwald, is simply stunning. Coupled with the area’s modern infrastructure, the centre is thus a top address for events of any kind. Different rooms offer spaces for up to 120 people and the big foyer invites attendees to have a coffee break or enjoy an aperitif in front of the gigantic mountain backdrop.

Die Lage des GriwaCongress Center Silberhorn am Fuß der Eiger Nord Wand im idyllischen Grindelwald ist schlichtweg traumhaft und gepaart mit der modernen Infrastruktur ist das Zentrum eine Top-Adresse für Events jeder Art. Verschiedene Räume bieten Platz für bis zu 120 Personen und das große Foyer lädt zu Aperitif oder Kaffeepause vor gigantischer Bergkulisse ein.

The parking spaces, but also the venue’s close proximity to the train station, are another great advantage. The beautiful mountain village itself offers many attractions and leisure opportunities – because relaxing is just as important as focused work.

Here, GriwaCongress also lends a helping hand and can organise lunch or dinner on location as well as at local restaurants.

“Upon request, we can organise an event completely from scratch,” explains the head of marketing Susan Lerch-Stettler.

The GriwaCongress team works closely with local partners so special requirements and wishes can be catered to easily. Depending on the event, accommodation is also available.

Der Parkplatz, aber auch die Nähe zum Bahnhof sind ebenfalls von Vorteil. Das wunderschöne Bergdorf selbst bietet viele Attraktionen und Freizeitmöglichkeiten – denn Abschalten ist genauso wichtig wie konzentriertes Arbeiten. GriwaCongress steht auch hierbei tatkräftig zur Seite und organisiert Lunch oder Dinner vor Ort sowie in den lokalen Restaurants. „Auf Wunsch wird das gesamte Event vollumfänglich organisiert“, erklärt Leiterin Marketing Susan Lerch-Stettler. Das GriwaCongress Team arbeitet eng mit lokalen Partnern zusammen, so dass Spezialwünsche gerne berücksichtig werden. Dem Event entsprechend werden selbstverständlich auch Übernachtungsmöglichkeiten angeboten. www.griwacongress.ch Issue 67 | October 2018 | 37

Chesa Marguns - the exclusive location for private celebrations in the St. Moritz region. Photo: © Engadin St. Moritz Mountains/kmu-fotografie.ch

TEXT: SILKE HENKELE

Lofty heights

– Chesa Marguns and Villa Lyss Two event locations in close proximity to the glamorous St. Moritz, turn any event into a memorable occasion.

Unassuming from the outside, exclusive event location Chesa Marguns stands in the renowned skiing and biking eldorado Corviglia and stands out via its very own flair.

Chesa Marguns − rustic romance at 2,278 metres above sea level “Arriving at Chesa Marguns is an adventure in its own right. Once our guests have arrived on the mountain via the gondola cableway, a red carpet and lighted torches guide their way to Chesa Marguns,” describes Nicole Reichelt, host of the restaurants at Marguns.

Guests and hosts enjoy the singular flair of Chesa Marguns while the experienced restaurant team takes care of everything. “In addition to the high-class catering we prepare according to the individual preferences 38 | Issue 67 | October 2018

of the host, the Chesa Marguns experience as a whole leaves quite the impression. The rooms sparkle with that very particular rustic Alpine charm. Guests value the lounge with its large fireplace, and the upper level serves as an irresistible invitation to socialise and to enjoy the many culinary delights on offer,” says Reichelt.

Villy Lyss − snug and comfy events plus a unique view Former Alpine cottage Villa Lyss, in the mountains way above St. Moritz, is an authentic location for individual events.

“Villa Lyss allows you to celebrate your events in exactly the way you want. The rustic cottage with its welcoming fireplace sits up to 23 guests. We cook directly on the premises and pamper our guests with high-class culinary pleasures ranging from cheese fondue to exclusive

gourmet menus,” explains Anne-Pierre Ackermann, host of Villa Lyss and the adjoining Romantik Hotel Muottas Muragl.

The unique view of the Upper Engadin lake plateau adds to the snug and cosy atmosphere of the event location Villa Lyss, which stands at about 2,500 metres above sea level.“Our guests reach us via the historic cableway which operates until 11pm.

In the case of the event ending later, and this inevitably may happen thanks to Villa Lyss’ enjoyable atmosphere, our guests are invited to book into Romantik Hotel Mouttas Muragl and to enjoy some of the Alpine enchantment for just a little while longer,” Ackermann enthuses.

If you want to celebrate unique events in the style that they deserve, you should always select the right location. Chesa Marguns and Villa Lyss in the beautiful and impressive Swiss mountains are without a doubt the perfect choice.

Discover Germany | Special Theme | Top Events in Switzerland 2018

Ganz oben

‒ Chesa Marguns und Villa Lyss Im Schweizer Kanton Graubünden, nahe dem mondänen Ferienort St. Moritz, machen zwei Event Locations jede Feier zu etwas ganz Besonderem.

und des gleich daneben liegenden Romantik Hotels Muottas Muragl.

außergewöhnliches Erlebnis. Bei der Einrichtung setzen wir vor allem auf rustikales Bergflair. Gäste fühlen sich in der Lounge mit ihrem großen Cheminée genauso wohl wie im oberen Stock, wo sie gesellig zusammensitzen und die Feier nach Lust und Laune genießen können”, sagt Reichelt.

Der einzigartige Blick auf das Oberengadiner Seenplateau komplettiert die urgemütliche Atmosphäre der Event Location Villa Lyss, die auf einer Höhe von knapp 2.500 Metern liegt. „Gäste besuchen uns mit der historischen Bergbahn, die bis 23 Uhr fährt. Sollte das Fest ein wenig länger dauern, was Dank des charmanten Flairs der Hütte durchaus passieren kann, so sind die Gäste herzlich eingeladen, im Romantik Hotel Muottas Muragl gleich gegenüber zu übernachten, und so die zauberhafte Bergatmosphäre noch ein wenig länger zu genießen“, schlägt Ackermann vor.

Von außen unauffällig, überrascht die exklusive Event Location Chesa Marguns im Ski- und Bikeeldorado Corviglia mit ganz besonderem Flair.

Chesa Marguns - Romantik mit rustikalem Flair auf 2278 Metern „In der Chesa Marguns wird bereits die Anreise zu einem außergewöhnlichen Erlebnis.

Mit der Gondelbahn auf dem Berg angekommen, weist ein roter Teppich und ein Spalier aus Fackeln unseren Gästen den Weg”, erzählt Nicole Reichelt, die Gastgeberin der Restaurants auf Marguns.

Gäste und Gastgeber genießen ganz entspannt das einzigartige Flair der Chesa Marguns, während das eingespielte Team vom Restaurant sich um alles andere kümmert. „Neben hochklassigem Catering, das wir je nach Wunsch und Anlass individuell variieren, ist die Chesa Marguns selbst ein

Villa Lyss - urgemütliche Feiern bei einzigartiger Aussicht Die ehemalige Alphütte Villa Lyss in den Bergen über St. Moritz ist die authentische Event Location für individuelle Feiern. „In der Villa Lyss feiern Sie Ihre Feste genauso, wie Sie wollen. In unserem urigen Gastraum mit gemütlichem Cheminée finden bis zu 23 Personen Platz. Wir kochen vor Ort und verwöhnen unsere Gäste je nach Wunsch mit einem hochklassigen kulinarischen Angebot, das von Käsefondue bis hin zu exklusiven Gourmetmenüs reicht”, erklärt Anne-Pierre Ackermann, Gastgeberin der Villa Lyss

Wer außergewöhnliche Events feiern möchte, fängt am Besten mit der richtigen Location an - mit der Chesa Marguns und der Villa Lyss im Schweizer Kanton Graubünden liegen Sie auf jeden Fall richtig! www.mountains.ch

Die Villa Lyss – Hüttenromantik für gemütliche Feste auf 2.454 m ü.M. Foto: © Engadin St. Moritz Mountains/Andrea Badrutt

Einmalig – die Aussicht von der Villa Lyss auf die Oberengadiner Seen. Foto © Engadin St. Moritz Mountains/Max Weiss

Im Obergeschoss der Chesa Marguns können bis zu 100 Gäste kulinarisch verwöhnt werden. Foto: © Engadin St. Moritz Mountains/kmu-fotografie.ch

Issue 67 | October 2018 | 39

Dinner in a lift made of glass.

The round tower.

The Schloss Laufen from above.

TEXT: INA FRANK I PHOTOS: SCHLOSS LAUFEN AM RHEINFALL

Natural spectacle meets fine cuisine Schloss Laufen on the Rhine Falls is a combined experience of natural spectacle, cultural heritage and fine cuisine. A stylish castle with the perfect ambiance for both professional and private events.

A conference, a celebration or simply dining in an elegant setting, while almost next to you, thundering water masses tumble downwards – this is what makes Schloss Laufen on the Rhine Falls so special. For more than 1,100 years, it has been enthroned above Europe’s highest waterfall. Nowadays, it offers creative cuisine, various types of rooms for events, and it recently received an award recognising it as one of the best wedding locations in Switzerland.

Sitting next to a comfortable open fire, guests can enjoy the classics, or seasonal dishes, from the ‘culinary calendar’. In the evening, guests are spoiled with a seasonal menu in the ‘Bleuersaal’. Each course includes the corresponding wine from the wine cellar. More restaurant specials are offered, inviting guests to simply relax and enjoy: fondues on Friday and Saturday nights, a romantic dinner right next to the Rhine Falls in a lift made of glass and the sumptuous breakfast on Sunday.

The restaurant Schloss Laufen, with a kitchen that is open until 10pm, offers a multifaceted cuisine. The kitchen sets great store by regional and seasonal products. From noon, the ‘Castello’ is open.

Having its own rail station, Schloss Laufen is located only 40 minutes away from Zurich and ten minutes away from Schaffhausen, which makes it an attractive place for conferences and celebrations. “Anyone

40 | Issue 67 | October 2018

who is looking for the perfect place for a wedding, a birthday party or a company event, will find a unique event venue in Schloss Laufen,” Elsbeth Geiger, marketing director, says. Five different rooms offer space for up to 200 guests. For example, the ‘knights’ hall’, the showpiece of the castle, is an excellent place for Christmas parties or jubilees. While inside the round tower, up to 17 guests can exclusively dine or hold a conference. And the wine cellar is the perfect place to enjoy an aperitif and canapés.

In the coming months there are many special things to discover around Schloss Laufen. From the middle of November until the end of January, the castle is part of a magical illumination. The middle rock of the Rhine Falls will also be illuminated, enchanting visitors in the evening hours. www.schlosslaufen.ch/en

Discover Germany | Special Theme | Top Events in Switzerland 2018

Naturschauspiel trifft edle Küche Das Schloss Laufen am Rheinfall bietet ein Gesamterlebnis aus Naturschauspiel, Kulturerbe und einer gehobenen Gastronomie. Die beeindruckende Kulisse für berufliche und private Anlässe im stilvollen Schloss-Ambiente.

Tagen, Feiern oder einfach nur im stilvollen Ambiente essen, während beinahe neben einem tosende Wassermassen ein beeindruckendes Naturschauspiel bilden – das ist das Schloss Laufen am Rheinfall. Seit mehr als 1.100 Jahren thront es über dem größten Wasserfall Europas. Heute bietet es kreative Gastronomie, verschiedene Räumlichkeiten für Tagungen und Feiern und wurde in diesem Jahr als eine der schönsten Hochzeits-Locations der Schweiz ausgezeichnet.

Das Restaurant Schloss Laufen mit durchgehend warmer Küche bis 22 Uhr bietet viele gastronomische Facetten vor einer einzigartigen Kulisse. Viel Wert legt die Küche auf Regionalität und Saisonalität. Ab dem Mittag hat das ‚Castello‘ geöffnet. An der Seite des gemütlichen Kaminfeuers können die Schloss-Klassiker und

saisonale Gerichte aus dem ‚kulinarischen Kalender‘ genossen werden. Abends werden die Gäste im Bleulersaal kulinarisch mit dem saisonal wechselnden Degustationsmenu verwöhnt.

Dazu gibt es die passende Weinbegleitung aus dem Weinkeller. Weitere kulinarische Specials laden zum Genießen ein: Fondue Chinoise freitags und samstags, romantisches Dinner im Panorama-Glaslift direkt am rauschenden Rheinfall und der ausgiebige Schlossbrunch.

Gut erreichbar mit eigener Bahn-Station und gerade einmal 40 Minuten von Zürich und 10 Minuten von Schaffhausen entfernt, ist das Schloss Laufen auch ein attraktiver Ort für Tagungen und Feiern. „Wer auf der Suche nach dem perfekten Rahmen für eine Hochzeit, den runden Geburtstag oder einen Firmenanlass ist, findet im Schloss Laufen einen einmali-

gen Veranstaltungsort“, sagt Elsbeth Geiger, Leiterin Marketing. Fünf Räume bieten Platz bis zu 200 Personen. Nur einige Beispiele seien hier genannt: Im Rittersaal, dem Prunkstück des Schlosses, lassen sich hervorragend Weihnachtsfeiern oder Jubiläen ausrichten. Im Rundturm können Gäste ganz exklusiv mit maximal 17 Personen speisen oder tagen. Und im historischen Gewölbekeller, dem Weinkeller, genießen die Gäste einen Aperitif und Häppchen.

In der kommenden Zeit machen weitere Specials rund um das Schloss Laufen den Besuch zu einem besonderen Erlebnis. Nebst der gemütlichen Winter-Lounge im Freien wird das Schloss von Mitte November bis Ende Januar märchenhaft beleuchtet. Ebenfalls beleuchtet wird der Mittelfelsen, das Aushängeschild des Rheinfalls. Täglich in den Abendstunden können sich die Besucher von seiner Magie verzaubern lassen. www.schlosslaufen.ch Das Schloss Restaurant ‚Castello‘.

Feiern im Rittersaal.

Der Bleulersaal.

Issue 67 | October 2018 | 41

Photo: © Peter Kitzbichler

The Passion play in Erl Every six years, the men of the small town of Erl in Tyrol, Austria let the hair on their heads and their beards grow out. Not because the barbers have suddenly all disappeared, but because they seek to keep a 400-year-old tradition alive. They take part in the world famous Passion play of Erl. Hair is already growing for the next passion play, that will be performed between May and October 2019, and is even listed as a UNESCO World Heritage item.

in some capacity. These months of planning, building, rehearsing and performing fosters a great sense of community amongst the people of Erl, so it is no surprise that many of them started to perform in this play as children and continue to be part of the tradition as adults.

TEXT: YVONNE DEWERNE

A Passion play is a dramatic presentation of the Passion of Jesus Christ, his trial, his suffering on the cross and his inevitable death. It is particularly a catholic tradition, but there are various plays in different countries. The oldest passion play in a German speaking country though, takes place in Erl. Erl is located a few kilometres outside of Kufstein and not very far from Bavaria and the German border. Munich is just 75 kilometres away.

The Passion of Jesus Christ has been performed for more than 400 years in this 42 | Issue 67 | October 2018

Tyrolean town. During the last run of the play, in 2013, more than 40,000 patrons watched the sold out spectacle. The story is well known and there are no surprises, but it is not about putting a new spin on things anyway. It is about igniting a fire in people and living the religious message the Passion play wants to convey.

Erl has approximately 1,450 inhabitants and only people who were either born or live in Erl are welcome to sign up for a role.

About a third of the population will take part in the organisation and performance

The Passion play has gone through a turbulent history. The first Passion play in Erl was documented in 1613. Thankful for God’s protection from illnesses, plague and war, the citizens of Erl used the play to express their gratitude. To this day most of the patrons come across the border from Germany to Austria. When the political landscape changed in Germany in 1933, however, travelling abroad was almost impossible for culture loving Germans.

On top of that, the theatre was destroyed during the Second World War. As a result, there was no Passion play between 1938 and 1959. In 1955, a new committee finally

Discover Germany | Culture Feature | The Passion Play in Erl

secured funding for a new theatre, which was finished in 1959 and is still in use today. Contrary to other Passion play locations, it is a characteristic in Erl not to be afraid of change. New directors and other creatives are regularly invited to keep the script modern and current. The same goes for the music − it is composed especially for the play and performed live by a choir with an orchestra.

Not only the Passion play itself is special in Erl. The theatre is one of a kind too. The white building sits on grassland with the mighty Austrian mountains as a backdrop. Some would say in the middle of nowhere. The unique architecture sticks out and can be seen from afar. It re-

Photo: © Mey

Photo: © Peter Kitzbichler

sembles a snail, whose tail curls into the mountains. It offers seats for 1,500 people and has fantastic acoustics. Unfortunately though, it can not be heated, which explains why the Passion play is performed from May to October only.

Right next to the Passion play theatre, there is another fairly new opera house, where the Tyrolean Summer and Winter Festival is being held. There is a stark contrast in both buildings. One is white, the other black. One is round, the other is pointed. This music festival has won several prizes and attracts world renowned artists each season that perform in operas such as the Magic Flute or the complete Ring of the Nibelung.

Regardless of whether you are a fan of opera or just intrigued to attend a cultural tradition that spans 400 years, the small town of Erl in Tyrol, Austria is worth the trip. The premiere of the Passion play is set for 26 May 2019. Performances are in German, with English subtitles. Tickets are on sale priced between 27 and 39 euros. www.en.passionsspiele.at

26 May 2019 – 5 October 2019 Passionsspiele Erl Mühlgraben 56 6343 Erl

Photo: © Roman Potykanowicz

Photo: © Roman Potykanowicz

Issue 67 | October 2018 | 43

Sunrise in Hamburg.

In Hamburg, you can have it all…

The vibrant harbour city in North Germany, with its enchanting bridges and canals, is an absolute must for any traveller. Hamburg is not only a beautiful urban yet very green setting for exciting cultural events, but also stands to open minds and hearts. For two days, the festival ‘Hamburg on Tour’ brought the city’s multicultural flair to London’s colourful Shoreditch.

TEXT: MARILENA STRACKE I PHOTOS: TIMO SOMMER, © HAMBURG CONVENTION BUREAU

Hamburg has been a popular tourist destination for a long time. But is it possible to bring a piece of the city to London? Yes, it is, as it happens! Packed with Hamburg treats, from food to music, chocolate and art,‘Hamburg on Tour’ succeeded in representing an authentic piece of Germany in England.

Ankara and Berlin, but Hamburg is my home. The city has developed tremendously. It has become more and more innovative. Hamburg has always followed the tradition of the liberal and tolerant.

Especially in these times, it is very important to keep that atmosphere.”

Deputy Mayor of Hamburg, Katharina Fegebank and MD for the Hamburg Tourism Board, Michael Otremba, shared their insights on this in an exclusive interview with us. “I travel the world a lot,” says Katharina Fegebank, “and I lived in many places such as New York, London,

Michael Otremba adds: “For me, Hamburg is a liquid city, so water plays an important role for the people. Water has got so much energy and you can enjoy the water sitting by the beach, drinking a beer and watching the harbour, which really echoes the tradition of Hamburg.”

44 | Issue 67 | October 2018

The century of the cities As both Otremba and Fegebank emphasise, Hamburg is a true 21st century city with many start-ups and business opportunities. Otremba explains that in Hamburg, there is room for innovations also thanks to Hamburg’s diversity throughout: “We benefit from the city’s contrasts. It is relaxing and exciting at the same time. It is elegant and colourful, beautiful and raw. So, coming to Hamburg, you will be absolutely flabbergasted because you can experience it all.”

There are so many exciting hot-spots in the city, but what about its secret, insider places? After checking out the main attractions such as the Elbe, the Alster and the Elbphilharmonie, Fegebank always recommends going to the remote spots.

“People coming from abroad cannot believe that you have an urban cityscape on the one side but if you go to the outskirts

Discover Germany | Travel Feature | In Hamburg You Can Have It All…

you would never think you are still in Hamburg. I always suggest visiting the Ohlsdorfer cemetery, which is the world’s largest forest cemetery, or the Duvenstedter Brook, a part of the nature conservation area, or the Vier- and Marschlande where you have farming – in Hamburg.”

right back then. But nowadays, you can go from singing karaoke to clubs and festivals all night. Though people also live there, of course, so the districts themselves are so much more than that. They give the city a lot of character.”

There is a trend to really dive deep and get a proper feel of the city’s authentic lifestyle, including its hidden gems, as Otremba points out: “What I do in my free time is stand-up paddling. It is an amazing feeling and a great way to get to know Hamburg.” Fegebank laughs: “I’ve seen those – one of them had a beer crate on it!

It looks like a lot of fun!”

Hamburg is also an excellent choice for travelling with kids. Fegebank, who is expecting twins soon, explains that not only do the locals benefit from a great care system, but the city is extremely family friendly too. New playgrounds are currently under construction and various workshops and cultural events are held specifically for the little ones. “You might have heard of the Miniature Wunderland,” she adds. “It is truly amazing and the people who run it are fantastic. They have inspiring new ideas almost every other week.”

“Yes,” Otremba continues, “I saw two older gents with a bottle of Champagne and oysters just chatting on their boards.

It’s amazing! I would also definitely recommend going to St. Pauli, because it’s a very diverse district. Paul McCartney once said, “Hamburg is the naughtiest city in the world”, and he was certainly Hamburg on Tour in London, 2018.

Family holidays in Hamburg

One of those ideas is a new family hotel in HafenCity. “The Hotel is called PIERDREI and will open next spring. It

offers many services not just focused on hotel guests but also on the neighbours.

This is a trend which new hotels now keep in mind,” says Otremba.“Previously, hotel bars were places for ‘lost souls’, but today, the locals use the facilities too, including the gym and the restaurants. Jufa is another great family hotel in HafenCity focusing on just that.”

Hamburg welcomes everyone with open hearts Above all, Hamburg is a city that views its tourists as guests. Welcoming them with heartfelt hospitality and a genuine sense of wanting to share their beautiful city. Especially with Brexit on the horizon, Fegebank points out how important it is to stick together. Due to its harbour location, Hamburg has been a city of immigrants for centuries. Celebrating what life has to offer together and leaving nobody behind is what makes Hamburg so extremely inspiring and loveable.

Off we go, then!

Elbphilharmonie.

Deputy Mayor of Hamburg, Katharina Fegebank (left) and Michael Otremba, MD for the Hamburg Tourism Board (right) in conversation with our journalist Marilena Stracke (middle).

Hamburg on Tour in London, 2018.

Reeperbahn.

Issue 67 | October 2018 | 45

Discover Germany | Travel | Autumn Vacation at the North Sea

Swimming pool. Photo: © Pfisterer

Hotel Pabst. Photo: © Ronaldo Sahm

‘Tecaldarium‘: Roman steam bath.

Photo: © Große

TEXT: NANE STEINHOFF

Health made easy

Gesundheit leicht gemacht

Still looking for somewhere to go this autumn? The North Sea island of Juist offers a special climate and untouched nature, is one of Germany’s few completely car-free islands, follows a special sustainability concept and is Thalasso-certified. Situated in the heart of Juist, the Hotel Pabst poses as the perfect starting point for pure relaxation and exploring the island.

Benötigen Sie noch Inspiration für einen Herbsturlaub? Die Nordseeinsel Juist bietet ein besonderes Nordsee-Klima und unberührte Natur, zählt zu den letzten komplett autofreien Inseln Deutschlands, verfolgt einen besonderen Nachhaltigkeitsgedanken und ist Thalasso-zertifiziert. Das Hotel Pabst im Herzen von Juist ist dabei der perfekte Ausgangspunkt um die Insel zu erkunden und mal so richtig zu entspannen.

Autumn is health time – at least on Juist. Here, the special North Sea climate and geographic location are perfect for Thalasso therapies and attract asthmatics and nature enthusiasts of all ages. The four-star-superior Hotel Pabst offers the perfect allround package. In an informal atmosphere, guests can relax in the tastefully decorated rooms or in the 600-square-metre-large wellness area, while indulging in delicious menus from chef Rüdiger Wanke.“As a hotel, we are also certified by the European Testing Institute Wellness & SPA,” smiles Benjamin Kammerer, Hotel Pabst’s management assistant. No wonder – the modern wellness area impresses with sauna, steam bath, tecaldarium, sanarium, different adventure showers, an ice fountain, the relaxation room and a 70-square-metre-large pool which invites guests for pure relaxation after a Thalasso therapy in the hotel’s Töwerbad Thalasso oasis.

Herbstzeit ist Gesundheitszeit – zumindest auf Juist. Hier eignet sich das besondere Nordsee-Klima und die geographische Lage nämlich für ThalassoTherapien und zieht Asthmatiker und Naturfreunde aller Altersgruppen an.

Das Vier-Sterne-Superior-Hotel Pabst bietet dabei das perfekte Allroundpaket.

In familiärer Atmosphäre kann in den geschmackvoll eingerichteten Zimmern oder in dem 600-Quadratmeter-großen Wellnessbereich entspannt werden. Zauberhafte Menüs vom Küchenchef Rüdiger Wanke runden das Angebot ab. „Auch wir als Hotel sind vom Europäischen Prüfinstitut Wellness & SPA zertifiziert“, lächelt Benjamin Kammerer, Assistent der Geschäftsführung im Hotel Pabst. Kein Wunder – der moderne Wellnessbereich beeindruckt mit Sauna, Dampfbad, Tecaldarium, Sanarium, verschiedenen Erlebnisduschen, einem Eisbrunnen, dem Ruhebereich und einem 70-Quadratmeter-großen Pool, der nach einer Thalasso Therapie im hoteleigenen Töwerbad zur puren Entspannung einlädt.

Situated only a few minutes’ walk from the main beach, hotel guests can easily explore the island’s nature after a relaxing wellness day. From 13 to 21 October, for example, the migratory bird days will take place: “A natural spectacle where migratory birds stop on Juist on their journey to the south,”concludes Kammerer, on yet another of the highlights that the hotel offers.

46 | Issue 67 | October 2018

Nur wenige Gehminuten vom Hauptstrand entfernt, kann man nach einem entspannten Wellness-Tag im Hotel Pabst die Umgebung und die Natur der Insel erkunden. Vom 13. bis zum 21. Oktober finden zum Beispiel die Zugvogeltage statt: „Ein ganz besonderes Naturschauspiel, bei dem die Zugvögel auf ihrer Reise in den Süden auf Juist Rast machen“, erklärt Kammerer. www.hotelpabst.de

S P E C I A L T H E M E : G E R M A N Y ’ S T O P S PA S & W E L L N E S S H O T E L S

Finding ultimate relaxation in autumn Germany is characterised by small spa towns and a large choice of luxury wellness hotels and top spa offerings. If you are looking for great wellness and spa treatments, be sure to read the following special theme in which we have handpicked some of the country’s top choices for just that.

PHOTOS: PIXABAY

48 | Issue 67 | October 2018

Discover Germany | Special Theme | Germany’s Top Spas & Wellness Hotels

TEXT: MARILENA STRACKE I PHOTOS: VABALI SPA BERLIN

A wellness paradise in the Eine Oase der Entspannung heart of Berlin inmitten Berlins That you can find a Balinese style island of wellness only 500 metres from Berlin central station is hard to believe – but vabali spa Berlin is exactly that. Surrounded by the stunning trees of the Fritz-Schloss-Park, the day-spa, measuring an impressive 20,000 square metres in size, invites guests to embark on an authentic Balinese journey of relaxation right in the middle of Berlin.

Dass man eine Wellnessoase im balinesischen Stil nur 500 Meter vom Berliner Hauptbahnhof entfernt finden kann, das mag man kaum glauben – doch das vabali spa Berlin macht‘s möglich! Vor wunderschöner Kulisse des alten Baumbestandes des Fritz-Schloß-Parks, lädt das Day-Spa auf imposanten 20.000 Quadratmetern zu einer authentischbalinesischen Entspannungsreise im Herzen Berlins ein.

The spacious area takes guests of vabali spa Berlin to a soothing Oriental world where they can take a deep breath and relax. At the heart of the inside area is the turquoise shimmering pool, an invitation to unwind surrounded by various relaxation rooms with heated waterbeds.

Das weitläufige Areal entführt die Gäste des vabali spa Berlins in eine fernöstliche Welt, in der man einfach mal tief durchatmen kann. Zentrum des Innenbereichs ist der türkisstrahlende Pool der zum Verweilen und relaxen einlädt, umgeben von zahlreichen Ruheräumen mit beheizten Wasserbetten.

Guests can choose massages from the classics such as sports, deep tissue or aroma massage to Shiatsu, Reiki and Lomi Lomi Nui, as well as traditional Indian Ayurveda massages – vabali spa Berlin offers everything to pamper body and soul throughout.

“On top of that, our guests can look forward to a spacious sauna landscape spread over two stories and the outdoor area,” says managing director Cornelius Riehm. “In total, we have 13 remarkable, relaxing saunas with a range of infusion ceremonies from classic salt, honey and fruit infusions to revitalising meditation and camomile treatments.”

Finally, a visit to the restaurant, offering exquisite Mediterranean and international dishes, completes the day of wellness perfectly.

Das Massage Angebot reicht von klassischen Massagen wie Sport-, Tiefengewebs- oder Aromaöl-Massage über Shiatsu und Reiki bis hin zu Lomi Lomi Nui und traditionellen indischen Ayurveda Massagen – das vabali spa Berlin bietet hier alles, was Körper und Seele gut tut. „Zusätzlich erwartet unsere Gäste ein großzügig angelegter Saunabereich, der sich über zwei Etagen und die Außenanlage erstreckt“, fügt Geschäftsführer Cornelius Riehm hinzu. „Insgesamt haben wir 13 außergewöhnliche und entspannende Saunen, bei denen die Fülle an Aufgusszeremonien von klassischen Salz-, Honig- und Fruchtaufgüssen bis hin zu revitalisierenden Meditations- und Kamillenblütenanwendungen reicht.“ Ein Besuch im Restaurant mit einem erlesenen mediterranen und internationalen Angebot rundet den Wellnesstag perfekt ab. www.vabali.de Issue 67 | October 2018 | 49

Discover Germany | Special Theme | Germany’s Top Spas & Wellness Hotels

TEXT: MARILENA STRACKE I PHOTOS: SEEHUUS HOTEL

Seehuus Lifestyle Hotel

Seehuus Lifestyle Hotel

The beautiful Seehuus Hotel is located right by the sea in the scenic fishing village of Niendorf, Timmendorfer Strand. With fabulous views of the Baltic Sea and a focus on wellness in a style-conscious atmosphere, the Seehuus Hotel is a place where you can completely feel at home.

Direkt am Meer im kleinen Fischerdorf Niendorf, Timmendorfer Strand liegt das wunderschöne Seehuus Hotel. Mit Blick auf die herrliche Ostsee und einem Fokus auf Wellness in stilsicherem Ambiente, ist das Seehuus Hotel ein Ort, an dem man sich so richtig wohl fühlen darf.

The Seehuus Lifestyle Hotel is unique in Niendorf. Since 2014, it has been firmly established and brings connoisseurs, wellness lovers and young families to the small fishing village. Behind the successful concept is the hotelier family von Oven. They make sure that decades of expertise merge with genuine hospitality.

Das Seehuus Lifestyle Hotel ist in Niendorf einmalig. Seit 2014 ist es eine fest etablierte Adresse und lockt Genießer, Wellness-Liebhaber und junge Familien in das kleine Fischerdorf. Hinter dem erfolgreichen Konzept steht die Hoteliersfamilie von Oven. Sie sorgt dafür, dass hier langjährige Expertise und echte Gastfreundschaft aufeinandertreffen.

“With the Seehuus, we wanted to create a place for well-being: modern yet cosy,”explains hotel manager Alexandra von OvenBatsch. “The maritime modern interior is in beach colours and is complemented by many elements from the old fishing village Niendorf, so that our guests can enjoy the Baltic Sea feeling up-close.”

„Mit dem Seehuus wollten wir einen Ort zum Wohlfühlen schaffen: modern, aber auch gemütlich“, erzählt Hoteldirektorin Alexandra von OvenBatsch. „Die maritim-moderne Einrichtung in Sand- und Meeresfarben wird durch viele Elemente aus dem alten Fischerdorf Niendorf ergänzt, so dass der Gast das Ostseegefühl bei uns hautnah erleben kann.“

Modern and cosy

The spa area with interior pools, small sauna landscape and relaxation room with Baltic Sea views, invites guests to unwind – with optional massage available. Culinary delights await guests in the hotel’s restaurant, if all that relaxation works up an appetite.“For us, it goes without saying that we must offer a wellness area and good cuisine together,” von Oven adds, and concludes: “But for families with kids, the swimming pool and the playroom are very important too.”

50 | Issue 67 | October 2018

Modern und gemütlich

Der Spa-Bereich mit Innenpool, kleiner Saunalandschaft und Ruheraum mit Ostseeblick lädt zum Verweilen ein – mit oder ohne Massage. Kulinarisch darf man sich vom hauseigenen Restaurant rundum verwöhnen lassen. „Der Wellnessbereich und eine gute Küche sind für unsere Gäste selbstverständlich“, fügt von Oven hinzu und lächelt. „Für Familien mit Kindern spielt jedoch das Schwimmbad und das Spielzimmer eine wichtige Rolle.“ www.seehuus-hotel.de

Just plant!

One set, including everything!

A gi for every occasion! meinwoody.de

Photo: © Bern Tourismus, swiss-image.ch/Terence du Fresne

S P E C I A L T H E M E : A L L E Y E S O N B E R N – T H E C A P I TA L’ S H I G H L I G H T S O F 2 0 1 8

Where history and modernity meet Switzerland’s capital of Bern has a great deal to offer: as its origins can be traced back to the 12th century, for example, medieval architecture can be found all over the old town. However, not only history fans get their money’s worth – modern museums, enchanting art galleries, innovative culinary highlights, top-notch shopping experiences, comfortable hotels and much more make the city the place to be in 2018!

TEXT: NANE STEINHOFF

The Zentrum Paul Klee. Photo: © Bern Tourism, swiss-image.ch/Bern Tourism/Zentrum Paul Klee

52 | Issue 67 | October 2018

Discover Germany | Special Theme | All Eyes on Bern - The Capital’s Highlights of 2018

The Clock Tower (Zytglogge). Photo: © Bern Tourismus, swiss-image.ch/Terence du Fresne

With a mere 130,000 inhabitants, Bern does not seem too big in comparison to other large cities in the DACH region. However, it makes up its size deficit with a diverse array of great offerings for its visitors. On the museum spectrum, for example, Bern has lots of opportunities for all age groups to discover the unknown. Whether one is interested in history, contemporary art, science or simply visiting a gallery of a different kind, the city has got it covered.

Another great appeal of Bern is its diverse architecture. The old town which was founded in the 12th century on a hill surrounded by the Aare River, impress-

es with many medieval buildings and structures and is a must-see when in the area. No wonder then, that the entire old town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

However, fans of modern architecture should not despair: many contemporary architectural masterpieces can be found in Bern too. For example, the Zentrum Paul Klee or the Westside shopping and leisure centre are definitely worth a look, as the former is a museum and the latter offers great shopping experiences.

Of course, Bern also has many sights that you should visit when in town. The Zytglogge (clock tower), Parliament

Building and BearPark are just some of the many tourist attractions one of Europe’s most relaxed capitals has to offer. Whether you are into architecture, visiting museums or art galleries, indulging in local cuisine or simply wandering through the picture-postcard old town, Bern enchants visitors immediately with its provincial, laid-back air and its interesting offering of a vast array of things to do and see.

Culinary highlights, places to stay and inspiring exhibitions and museums − in the following special theme, we take a look at some highlights in Bern in 2018.

Issue 67 | October 2018 | 53

TEXT: MARILENA STRACKE I PHOTOS: SANDRA STOIBER, NATHALIE FLUBACHER

Culinary highlights with a stunning backdrop Restaurant Rosengarten overlooks Bern’s historical centre and impresses with seasonal creations combining traditional Swiss cuisine with Mediterranean influences. The classic cheese fondue on the terrace, featuring an autumn or winter panorama, is an unmissable treat for all foodies.

The beautiful Restaurant Rosengarten, located on the higher ground of the Rosengarten park, offers stunning views over the scenic old town of Bern and the Aareschlaufe. For owners and long-time friends Fritz Riesen and Fabian Schüttel, a dream came true after they successfully competed against many interested applicants and were able to take over the restaurant in 2004.

rich breakfasts and snacks to multi-course menus for lunch and dinner. The kitchen team takes the season and current market offering into account with a focus on regional and seasonal produce. Schüttel adds: “Almost all our ingredients come from suppliers who are close to nature and work in alignment with animal welfare in the Bern region.”

“Fritz Riesen is responsible for the service and my domain is the kitchen and marketing. We complement each other well and are a solid team,” says Fabian Schüttel.

“Under our leadership, the restaurant has turned into a popular spot in Bern.”

Guests from far and wide come to Restaurant Rosengarten, where one can find business people, athletes, tourists and families alike − all enjoying the food. For the little ones, the playground closeby is a highlight in itself.

Restaurant Rosengarten offers creative culinary art for any time of the day, from

The interior design emphasises the homely yet professional atmosphere: “Pure time-

54 | Issue 67 | October 2018

less architecture meets modern interiors,” explains Schüttel. “During autumn and winter, the open fire is very comforting and the fondue terrace with the sheepskins and wooden benches gives a cosy vibe.”

Of course, the restaurant is also the perfect location for special occasions. Whether it is a wedding, corporate or family event, the team ensures an individual touch throughout. It is obvious that there is a great passion for excellent hospitality at Restaurant Rosengarten.

If you are looking for affordable culinary highlights in a tasteful atmosphere, with wonderful views thrown into the mix, you have found your ideal location. Be it with the fragrance of the blossoming roses in summer or the delicious cheese scent during the colder fondue season, one thing is certain: Restaurant Rosengarten is always a great place at which to unwind and indulge in a tasty meal.

Discover Germany | Special Theme | All Eyes on Bern - The Capital’s Highlights of 2018

Kulinarische Highlights vor atemberaubender Kulisse Das Restaurant Rosengarten mit Blick auf die Berner Altstadt überzeugt mit saisonalen Kreationen, welche die traditionelle Schweizer Küche mit mediterranen Einflüssen kombinieren. Das klassische Käsefondue auf der Veranda vor herbstlichem oder winterlichem Panorama lässt Feinschmeckerherzen höherschlagen.

Das wunderschöne Restaurant Rosengarten, gelegen im gleichnamigen Park, profitiert von der höheren Lage und hat so einen umwerfenden Blick auf die herrliche Berner Altstadt und die Aareschlaufe. Für die Inhaber und die langjährigen Freunde Fritz Riesen und Fabian Schüttel wurde ein Traum war, als sie sich 2004 gegen die vielen Mitbewerber durchsetzen konnten und das Restaurant übernehmen durften. „Fritz Riesen ist für den Service verantwortlich und ich für den Küchenbereich und das Marketing, so ergänzen wir uns und sind ein gut eingespieltes Team“, erzählt Fabian Schüttel. „Mittlerweile hat sich das Restaurant Rosengarten unter unserer Führung zu einem beliebten Berner Restaurant etabliert.“ Kulinarisch bietet das Restaurant Rosengarten kreative Kochkunst zu jeder Tageszeit, vom reichhaltigen Frühstück über verschiedene Snacks bis hin zu den mehr-

gängigen Menüs zum Lunch oder am Abend.

Dabei richtet sich das Küchenteam nach der Jahreszeit und dem Marktangebot mit einem Fokus auf regionale und saisonale Produkte.

Schüttel fügt hinzu: „Fast alle Zutaten stammen aus naturnaher und artgerechter Produktion aus der Region Bern.“ So zieht es viele verschiedene Gäste von nah und fern ins Restaurant Rosengarten. Hier findet man Geschäftsleute, Sportler, Touristen und natürlich Familien. Die kleinen Gäste freuen sich besonders über den anliegenden Spielplatz.

Natürlich ist das Restaurant auch die perfekte Location für besondere Anlässe. Ob Hochzeiten, Firmen-Events oder Familienfeiern - das Team sorgt für den individuellen Touch auf allen Ebenen. Die Leidenschaft für exzellente Gastfreundschaft spürt man im Restaurant Rosengarten sofort.

Wer kulinarische und doch vergleichsweise preiswerte Highlights in stilvollem Ambiente inklusive wunderbarer Aussicht sucht, wird hier fündig. Ob mit Rosenduft von der blühenden Pracht im Sommer oder köstlichem Käse-Duft während der kälteren FondueSaison, eines ist sicher: Das Restaurant Rosengarten ist immer eine sichere Adresse, um bei gutem Essen die Seele baumeln zu lassen. www.rosengarten.be

Das Interieur unterstreicht die heimelige, dennoch professionelle Atmosphäre: „Schlichte zeitlose Architektur trifft auf modernes Interieur“, erklärt Schüttel. „Im Herbst und Winter sorgt ein Kaminfeuer für Behaglichkeit. Die Fondue-Veranda mit den Schaffellen und Holzbänken strahlt Gemütlichkeit aus.“

Issue 67 | October 2018 | 55

Discover Germany | Special Theme | All Eyes on Bern - The Capital’s Highlights of 2018

TEXT: SONJA IRANI I PHOTOS: B20 – SERVICED APARTMENTS BERN

Your home away from home Zuhause auf Zeit More and more people are travelling around and living in different places. Thus, there is an increasing demand for temporary housing solutions, which both offer the services of a good hotel, but also feel like a proper home. That is why many cities now provide so-called business or serviced apartments. These are furnished studios with a kitchen and bathroom that often include cleaning and additional hotellike services.

Immer mehr Menschen sind immer häufiger unterwegs. So wächst der Bedarf nach temporären Wohnungslösungen, die zum einen den Service eines guten Hotels bieten, sich zum anderen aber auch wie ein richtiges Zuhause anfühlen. In immer mehr Städten gibt es deshalb sogenannte Business bzw.

Serviced Apartments. Dies sind möblierte Studios mit Küche und Bad, die meist auch gereinigt werden und zusätzliche, hotelähnliche Leistungen anbieten.

The b20 – serviced apartments bern are the first apartments of this kind in the Swiss capital Bern. Since August 2017, guests have been able to rent a studio flat here from one up to 12 months. Company manager Gerda Maria Ruflin explains what a ‘temporary Bern local’ can expect: “Our apartments offer a very high standard of living, valuable design furnishings, a 14day cleaning service including a bed linen change, a free car sharing membership and our personal concierge service.”

Die b20 – serviced apartments bern sind das erste Apartmenthaus dieser Art in der Schweizer Bundesstadt. Seit August 2017 kann man hier ab einem bis zu maximal 12 Monaten eine Wohnung buchen. Geschäftsführerin Gerda Maria Ruflin erklärt, was die ‚Berner auf Zeit‘ erwarten können: „Unsere Wohnlösungen bieten einen sehr hohen Ausbaustandard, wertiges Design-Mobiliar, 14-tägliche Reinigung mit Wäschewechsel, eine kostenlose car sharingMitgliedschaft und unseren persönlichen Concierge-Service.“

Moreover, guests can book additional services at any time.

These range from a personal parking space to ironing or shoecleaning services. “Regarding the surroundings, Bern should definitely be discovered by foot,” says Ruflin, and concludes: “The lively city offers picturesque historical buildings and impressive bridges along the river Aare. In the summer time, swimming in the Aare river is a must-do and in the winter, the nearby public transport options take you up to the skiing slopes in no time!”

Darüber hinaus können jederzeit modulare Dienstleistungen hinzugebucht werden. Diese reichen von einem persönlichen Parkplatz bis hin zu Bügel- oder Schuhputzservices. Auch die Umgebung hat einiges zu bieten. „Bern sollte unbedingt zu Fuß entdeckt werden“, sagt Ruflin. „Die Stadt bietet wunderschöne Bauten, beeindruckende Brücken, pittoresk eingebettet in den Flusslauf der Aare und mit sehr dichter Geschichte. Dazu ist sie sympathisch quirlig und deckt sämtliche Shopping- und Kulinarik-Bedürfnisse ab. Im Sommer ist ein Aare-Schwumm unerlässlich und im Winter bringt einen der öffentliche Verkehr in kürzester Zeit auf eine Skipiste!“ www.b20.ch

56 | Issue 67 | October 2018

Discover Germany | Special Theme | All Eyes on Bern - The Capital’s Highlights of 2018

TEXT: MARILENA STRACKE

Left: Museum Franz Gertsch. © Museum Franz Gertsch, Photo: Bernhard Strahm, Gerlafingen, 2012. Middle top: Franz Gertsch, Summer, 2008/09 exhibition view, 2015. © Bernhard Strahm. Middle bottom: Exhibition view Museum Franz Gertsch with works by Franz Gertsch. © Museum Franz Gertsch, Photo: Bernhard Strahm, Gerlafingen, 2015. Right: Visualisation of the project by RIONE.CH. © Museum Franz Gertsch, RIONE.CH

“Large-format paintings and woodcuts with a meditative effect.”

„Großformatige Gemälde und Holzschnitte mit meditativer Wirkung.“

The Swiss Museum Franz Gertsch in Burgdorf near Bern has been home to the largest Gertsch collection since 2002 and is currently being extended by 300 square metres. In early 2019, the group of paintings called the Four Seasons will be exhibited in the new space, enhancing its magical effect.

Das Museum Franz Gertsch im Schweizer Burgdorf bei Bern ist seit 2002 das Zuhause der größten Gertsch-Sammlung weltweit und wird gerade um 300 Quadratmeter erweitert. Anfang 2019 wird die Werkgruppe der Gemälde der Vier Jahreszeiten in einem neuen Raum ausgestellt, der ihre magische Wirkung noch mehr unterstreicht.

Everything started in 1998 when the industrialist Willy Michel and Franz Gertsch decided to create a museum together. Today, 20 years later, the museum is firmly established. It hosts contemporary art exhibitions and displays the largest Gertsch collection, which is ever-growing.

Alles begann 1998 als der Industrielle Willy Michel und Franz Gertsch beschlossen gemeinsam ein Museum aufzubauen. Heute, 20 Jahre später, ist das Museum bestens etabliert und zeigt neben den Wechselausstellungen der zeitgenössischen Kunst die größte, stetig wachsende Gertsch-Sammlung.

This includes works such as Silvia I, Gräser I-IV and various medium and large-format woodcuts. A true gem is the Four Seasons – a group of paintings. Franz Gertsch took photographs of a forest trail behind his studio during different seasons and turned these photo references into large-format paintings.

Each of them measures three metres by five, and from next spring, a new space will be dedicated entirely to them. “When these large works are shown in the same room, they have an unbelievably meditative and magical effect on viewers,” says museum director Arno Stein. “These works, turned into paintings like that, are unique worldwide.”

After the re-opening, the museum’s collection will be displayed until late summer. A ‘season-clock’ at the building will show visitors the seasons during specific times.

Diese beinhaltet Werke wie zum Beispiel Silvia I und Gräser I–IV, sowie zahlreiche mittel- und grossformatige Holzschnitte. Ein wahres Highlight ist die Werkgruppe der Vier Jahreszeiten. Franz Gertsch fotografierte einen Waldweg hinter seinem Atelier zu den verschiedenen Jahreszeiten und setzte diese Fotovorlagen in großformatige Malerei um. Jedes dieser Gemälde hat eine Größe von drei auf fünf Metern. Ab Frühling 2019 wird es dafür einen neu gebauten, dauerhaften Ausstellungsraum geben. „Hängen die großen Werke im gleichen Raum, entfalten sie eine unglaublich meditative und magische Wirkung auf die Besucher“, erzählt Museumsdirektor Arno Stein. „Diese Werkgruppe, derart in Malerei umgesetzt, ist weltweit einmalig.“ Nach der Eröffnung wird die Sammlung des Hauses bis zum Spätsommer 2019 ausgestellt. An einer‚Jahreszeiten-Uhr‘ am Gebäude können die Besucher zu bestimmten Zeiten die Jahreszeit ablesen. www.museum-franzgertsch.ch Issue 67 | October 2018 | 57

TEXT: SILKE HENKELE I PHOTOS: HOTEL LANDGASTHOF KEMMERIBODEN-BAD

Recreational mini-breaks and an igloo Hotel Landhasthof Kemmeriboden-Bad, near to the Swiss capital Bern, offers exciting holiday packages for recreational mini-breaks.

“Our Hotel Landgasthof KemmeribodenBad has been owned and run by my family for six generations. The hotel is a place of relish and conviviality which creates some memorable experiences for our guests,” explains Reto Invernizzi, manager of Hotel Landgasthof Kemmeriboden-Bad. In addition to this truly delightful ambiance and the welcoming environment of the Bern area, it is its remarkable mini-break packages that make the Landgasthof so particularly charming.

Landgasthof Kemmeriboden-Bad – a synonym for amazing experiences “Holiday guest or seminar participant − our hotel meets everybody’s needs. Classical themes of a country guest house, like 58 | Issue 67 | October 2018

the processing of regional products from our local butcher, cheesemaker or baker, continue to delight our guests and, in addition to our lovingly arranged holiday packages, turn a stay at our hotel into a truly memorable experience,”Invernizzi states and elaborates further:“Why not book into a romantic weekend in a room garnished with aromatic bundles of straw and a complimentary gourmet meal? Or, during the cold season, spend a cosy weekend in our specially built igloo and enjoy an invigorating cheese fondue? During the warm summer months and in cooperation with our business partner Mama Hulda, our guests may also ‘glamp’ on our premises and enjoy the wide sky of the wild-romantic Emmental in a de-luxe safari tent. A good night’s

sleep in a luxurious handmade wooden box-spring bed covered in luxurious eiderdowns is truly a masterful manner in which to experience nature first-hand and to relax without foregoing the blessings of luxury,” enthuses Invernizzi. All of these packages include a delicious gourmet breakfast, as well as free entry to the hotel’s very own spa with sauna, steam shower and wooden barrel tub.

Pure indulgence: the Kemmeriboden merengue When you spend your next mini-break at Landgasthof Kemmeriboden-Bad, be sure not to miss the scrumptious, slightly sweetened cult pastry , the Kemmeriboden meringue,which has enchanted the taste buds of epicures for many, many years. You will love them too − and that is a promise that the hotel will stand by!

Discover Germany | Special Theme | All Eyes on Bern - The Capital’s Highlights of 2018

Kurzurlaube im Iglu mit hohem Erholungsfaktor Mit originellen Angeboten für entspannende Miniurlaube wird ein Aufenthalt im Hotel Landgasthof Kemmeriboden-Bad nahe der Schweizer Hauptstadt Bern zu einer wohltuenden Auszeit vom Alltag mit großer Wirkung. „Unser Hotel Landgasthof KemmeribodenBad ist ein in sechster Generation familiengeführtes Traditionshaus; ein Ort genussvoller Geselligkeit, das den Alltag für eine kurze Zeit vergessen macht und für besondere Erlebnisse sorgt“, erklärt Reto Invernizzi, Geschäftsführer des Hotel Landgasthofs Kemmeriboden-Bad. Neben einem reizvollen Ambiente und der einladenden Umgebung des Berner Umlands, sind es vor allem die innovativen Angebote, die die Gäste des Landgasthofs seit langem zu schätzen wissen.

Landgasthof Kemmeriboden-Bad - Synonym für großartige Erlebnisse „Bei uns fühlen sich Seminargäste genauso wohl wie Individualgäste, Romantiker, Sportler oder Genießer. Neben den klassischen Inhalten eines Landgasthofs wie

beispielsweise die Verwendung regionaler Produkte vom hiesigen Metzger, Käser oder Bäcker, freuen sich unsere Gäste auf unsere tollen Angebote, die den Aufenthalt im Landgasthof Kemmeriboden-Bad immer wieder auf’s Neue zu etwas ganz besonderem machen“, führt Invernizzi weiter aus. „Bei uns verbringen unsere Gäste ein romantisches Wochenende im Stroh inklusive Gourmet-Verwöhnmenü oder buchen in der Winterzeit ein stimmungsvolles Wochenende in unserem eigens erbauten Iglu - inklusive Käsefondue. Mit unserem Partner Mama Hulda bieten wir seit diesem Sommer auch ‚Glamping‘ an: Im weitläufigen Garten unseres Landgasthofs unter dem freien Sternenhimmel des wild-romantischen Emmentals erleben unsere Gäste eine romantische Nacht im de-luxe-Safarizelt. Ausgestattet

mit einem luxuriösen Boxspringbett aus Naturholz und Eierdaunendecken ist das während den Sommermonaten eine wirklich tolle Möglichkeit, Natur hautnah zu erleben und die Seele baumeln zu lassen, ohne auf Luxus verzichten zu müssen“, schwärmt Invernizzi.

Alle Angebote beinhalten sowohl ein leckeres Genießerfrühstück als auch die kostenlose Nutzung der Wellnesecke des Hotels, die mit Sauna, Dampfdusche und Badeholzfass bestens auf die individuellen Wünsche der Gäste vorbereitet ist.

Genuß pur: Kemmeriboden Merängge Wenn Sie Ihren nächsten Miniurlaub im Landgasthof Kemmeriboden-Bad verbringen, dann fragen Sie unbedingt nach dem Kultgebäck ‚Kemmeriboden Merängge‘, einem leicht gezuckertes Schaumgebäck, das Genießergaumen seit vielen Jahren verwöhnt. Sie werden begeistert sein! www.kemmeriboden.ch

Issue 67 | October 2018 | 59

Photo: © Restaurant Dampfzentrale

TEXT: SILKE HENKELE | PHOTOS: KASPAR MARTIG

Restaurant Dampfzentrale

− culinary highlights by the river Aare

Restaurant Dampfzentrale in Swiss Bern, has been offering a wide choice of original Mediterranean cuisine since 2013. Discover Germany takes a closer look at this exceptional place.

Chef Jugoslav Milenkovic’s fresh and original Mediterranean cuisine is just one of the many highlights via which Restaurant Dampfzentrale continues to delight its guests.

“Being housed directly at the river Aare in a former electricity plant, Restaurant Dampfzentrale is a real eye-catcher. In summer, our guests may dine in a spaciously laid-out area at the river Aare.

Fairy lights cast a pleasant light on the scenery and beautiful plant arrangements invite our guests to spend an enjoyable time on our premises. The electricity plant itself, its striking industrial appeal, imposing architecture, and remarkable traditional brick style radiates its very own flair. This ensures that the friendly gathering of friends and family becomes 60 | Issue 67 | October 2018

a very special occasion − even in winter,” explains Michael Hersberger, manager of Restaurant Dampfzentrale.

Particularly during the chillier season, when it is too cold to sit outside, the smoker, another of the restaurant’s highlights, becomes a cosy meeting point for Dampfzentrale’s guests. “We cook meat and fish under our guests’ inquisitive eyes, to their individual taste. True indulgence simply does not come fresher or yummier,” enthuses Hersberger.

Going beyond its cuisine and striking atmosphere, Restaurant Dampfzentrale is an enthralling event location and an inspiring cultural meeting place. Hersberger explains: “At Dampfzentrale, guests or interested parties not only meet to partake

in their passion for innovative forms of dance, but also to freely enjoy a myriad of performances, music and club culture, and to celebrate special events.”

Are you on the lookout for exquisite cuisine served in an atmospheric setting?

Restaurant Dampfzentrale in Bern may be exactly what you are looking for. Michael Hersberger, Stefan Ruprecht, Jugoslav Milenkovic and the whole team are looking forward to welcoming you!

Discover Germany | Special Theme | All Eyes on Bern - The Capital’s Highlights of 2018

Die Dampfzentrale

‒ kulinarische Höhepunkte in gemütlicher Atmosphäre direkt an der Aare Seit 2013 begrüßt das Restaurant Dampfzentrale im Schweizerischen Bern seine Gäste mit einer reichen Auswahl an innovativen mediterranen Gerichten. Discover Germany hat sich umgesehen.

Die frische und innovative mediterrane Küche des Küchenchefs Jugoslav Milenkovic ist nur eines der vielen Highlights, mit dem die Dampfzentrale seine Gäste immer wieder auf’s Neue begeistert. „Die Dampfzentrale fällt auf! Wir haben uns in einem ehemaligen Elektrizitätswerk direkt an der Aare einquartiert. Im Sommer dinieren unsere Gäste direkt am Wasser in einem großzügig angelegten Außenbereich, der mit gemütlichen Pflanzenarrangements und Lichterketten, die die abendliche Szenerie sanft und einladend beleuchten, zum Genießen einlädt. Das Elektrizitätswerk selbst mit seinem industriellen Charme, seiner außergewöhnlichen Architektur und der ungewöhnlichen Backsteinbauweise hat eine ganz eigene Ausstrahlung und ein eigenes Flair, das das gemütliche Beisammensein mit Freunden oder der Familie zu einem außergewöhnlichen Erlebnis macht - und auch im Winter einfach unvergleichlich ist“, beschreibt Michael Hersberger, Geschäftsführer der Dampfzentrale den ganz speziellen Charme des Restaurants.

Gäste und Interessierte nicht nur, um ihrer Leidenschaft für innovative Formen des Tanzes zu frönen, sondern auch, um Performances aller Art, Musik und Clubkultur nach Lust, Laune und individuellen Vorlieben zu erleben und zu genießen oder auch, um spezielle Events zu feiern.“

Sie sind auf der Suche nach exquisiter Kulinarik in atmosphärischer Umgebung? Dann ist die Dampfzentrale in Bern genau die richtige Anlaufstelle. Michael Hersberger, Stefan Ruprecht, Jugoslav Milenkovic und das gesamte Team der Dampfzentrale freuen sich auf Ihren Besuch! www.taberna.ch/dampfzentrale/ das-restaurant

Besonders in der kühleren Jahreszeit und wenn es für einen längeren Aufenthalt im attraktiven Außenbereich der Dampfzentrale doch zu kalt wird, wird der Smoker, eines der weiteren Highlights der Dampfzentrale, zum gemütlichen Treffpunkt für die Gäste. „Im Smoker garen wir Fleisch- und Fischstücke unter den neugierigen Augen der Gäste perfekt und auf den Punkt genau. Frischer und leckerer geht Genuss einfach nicht“, schwärmt Hersberger. Über das Kulinarische und das Atmosphärische hinaus, ist die Dampfzentrale Eventlocation und kultureller Treffpunkt. Hersberger führt hierzu weiter aus: „Bei uns treffen sich Issue 67 | October 2018 | 61

Discover Germany | Special Theme | All Eyes on Bern - The Capital’s Highlights of 2018

TEXT: JESSICA HOLZHAUSEN I PHOTOS: ANDREAS MARBOT

Premium products made by Swiss craftspeople

Erstklassige Handwerksprodukte aus der Schweiz

Since 1932, the Heimatwerk Bern has sold locally crafted products from all over Switzerland. The assortment ranges from wooden products and sculptures to metalwork or the paper cuttings of Esther Gerber in Rohrbach. Situated in the centre of Bern, the store also has some souvenirs on offer.

Seit 1931 verkauft das Heimatwerk Bern lokal gefertigte Produkte aus allen Regionen der Schweiz. Das Sortiment reicht von Holzprodukten und -skulpturen zu Metallarbeiten oder den Scherenschnittarbeiten von Esther Gerber aus Rohrbach. Mitten in Bern gelegen, gehören auch einige Souvenirartikel zum Sortiment.

In the early 1930s, the Bernese Oberland foundations of Haslital, Interlaken, Frutigen, Zweisimmen Saanen and Thun decided to sell products made by talented craftspeople in a joint-venture shop in the centre of Bern. Shortly afterwards, the so-formed Heimatwerk Bern broadened its product range and started to sell Swiss arts and crafts. “The trading business changes, and so the Heimatwerk Bern, over the years, has adapted to new circumstances,” says managing director Ruth Lundquist. Meanwhile, the Heimatwerk also works with protected workshops, where people with disabilities fabricate innovative wood products and toys.

Anfang der 1930er entschlossen sich die Berner Oberländer Fördervereine Haslital, Interlaken, Frutigen, Zweisimmen Saanen und Thun gemeinsam in einem Berner Geschäft Produkte zu verkaufen, die talentierte Handwerker in Heimarbeit fertigten. Bereits kurz darauf erweiterte das so entstandene Heimatwerk Bern das Sortiment um Schweizer Kunsthandwerk. „Handel ist Wandel und so hat sich auch das Heimatwerk Bern über die Jahre an neue Gegebenheiten angepasst“, sagt Geschäftsführerin Ruth Lundquist.

Inzwischen arbeitet das Heimatwerk auch mit Geschützten Werkstätten zusammen, wo Menschen mit Beeinträchtigung innovative Holz- und Spielwaren fertigen.

“With our shop, we give a platform to craftspeople, the protected workshops and designers, as well as new innovative popups,” says Lundquist. The Heimatwerk Bern is always looking for new products. “I visit craft- and trade fairs, but often, artists and craftspeople come directly into our shop to present their products.” The Heimatwerk encourages a regional cultural heritage and sells “a unique variety of high-quality products, mostly fabricated in domestic manufactories and ateliers”. Among them, are the Bernese Linck ceramics, the Swiss painter and author of children novels Carigiet, Huggler wood sculptures, filigree works like those of Geissbühler, who fabricate traditional jewellery, or the exclusive music boxes by Reuge.

62 | Issue 67 | October 2018

„Wir geben sowohl dem Kunsthandwerk, den Werkstätten und Designern, als auch neuen innovativen Pop-ups eine Plattform in unserem Geschäft“, sagt Lundquist. Dabei ist das Heimatwerk Bern immer wieder auf der Suche nach neuen Produkten. „Ich besuche Kunsthandwerker-Märkte und Messen, oft kommen die Künstler und Handwerker auch direkt in das Geschäft, um ihre Produkte vorzustellen.“ Das Heimatwerk pflegt regionales Kulturgut und verkauft „eine einzigartige Vielfalt von mehrheitlich in einheimischen Manufakturen und Ateliers hergestellten Produkten von höchster Qualität“. Dazu gehören die Berner Linck Keramik, der Schweizer Maler und Kinderbuchautor Carigiet, die Holzbildhauerei Huggler, Filigranisten wie Geissbühler, die Trachtenschmuck herstellen, oder die exklusiven Musikdosen von Reuge. www.heimatwerk-bern.ch

ef fe c t- e n e r g y | w w w.ef fe c t- e n e r g y.c o m

Photo: © Pixabay

Reboot your mind When managers experience physical and mental symptoms of severe stress, going on a regular holiday is often not enough to rest and regenerate. At the same time, however, many are not too keen on spending time in hospital. As an alternative, in-between option, an increasing number of hotels and medical resorts offer their own programmes as remedies for burnout. Here, we look at three examples.

Andreas Färber of Klosterhof in Bayerisch Gmain in Bavaria, seems to hint at the same phenomenon when stating that the desired mindfulness in the end simply turns into another act of self-optimisation.

TEXT: WWW.BEAUTY-GUIDE.DE, TRANSLATION: BARBARA GEIER

In the 1970s, the term burnout was reserved for overworked people in the social care sector. Now, it has turned into a general term used for a ubiquitous feeling of not being well, that knocks out affected people in their everyday life. Current statistics show that in Germany, employees are on sick leave in increasing numbers because of overwork and exhaustion. According to news reports in May 2018, the number of absences resulting therefrom has risen from 19.97 million days to 30.53 million days between 2012 and 2016. However, such figures can be in the end quite vague, as there is still no official ICD (In-

Karl Anton Frei, who is responsible for F.X. Mayr programmes at Rickatschwende Health Centre in Dornbirn in Austria, knows from experience that this is the first major hurdle for professionals with stressful jobs when deciding on whether or not they can book a hotel burnout programme.

How can one find time for one’s own health and wellbeing when lack of time is precisely the reason for feeling burned out in the first place? Stress, pressure and unfulfilled expectations seem to be ever present nowadays, wearing us down in 64 | Issue 67 | October 2018

day to day life. “In addition to that, a lot of managers that come to us are under constant strain to such an extent that they are incapable of handling moments of downtime,” Frei explains. Dr. Günther Beck, who heads the Villa Vitalis Medical Health Resort in Aspach in upper Austria, has made similar observations and describes how people have lost the ability to relax: “Even when it comes to their leisure time, many engage in self-optimisation activities, such as sports that aim towards delivering top performances.” Another expert, Dr.

Hotels provide a different look and feel

Discover Germany | Travel Feature | Reboot Your Mind

ternational Classification of Diseases) code for burnout. “Many people who are affected are therefore classed under depression and feel stigmatised,” says Färber. It is also now widely known that it is actually a complex bundle of symptoms that lies behind a burnout.

on offer. “Our principle is ‘physical work instead of mental work’ because moving promotes relaxation,” explains Frei. As a result, guests become visibly calmer day by day. “After at least ten days, they really feel more relaxed and have learned to reconnect with their emotions.”

Can hotels and medical resorts provide well-founded and effective methods of treatments that serve as a substitute for hospitals? The large number of guests that book in for prevention seems to suggest so. Even severe cases of burnout can be handled as many properties operate with their own professional medical departments.“People that are affected often look for an alternative to conventional medicine the way it is practised in hospitals,” explains Färber, who owns Klosterhof, a premium hotel and health resort in Bayerisch Gmain and practises as a doctor in the in-house Artemacur health centre. “Hotels offer a completely different setting to guests who suffer from burnout. They have a different look and feel.” Or, in a nutshell, it can be classed as being all about spending an inspiring time in feel-good surroundings. In line with that, the website of Villa Vitalis focuses on showcasing a modern design hotel with a poolside terrace and luxury spa, and there are detailed descriptions of medical goals and offers.“We have been doing that for some time now and often provide more information about our programme than about the hotel, because people that are affected specifically search for such offers,” says Beck.

Villa Vitalis, which was built in 2012 and features 18 rooms, is associated with the Aspach Health Centre and follows a similar approach to stress management and burnout prevention and therapy that combines traditional diagnostics with targeted and effective treatments. Based on core pillars, these include, among others, comprehensive nutritional therapies, detox units, regulation therapies, mental training and fitness programmes.

“Our wellness, nutrition, sports and cultural offerings cover all of these aspects,” adds Dr. Andreas Färber from Klosterhof in Bayerisch Gmain. “However, we integrate talking therapy right from the start which is in line with the so-called ‘concept medicine’ that I have developed that

Body trumps head

aims towards helping people to find their own concepts of life. Artemacur, in this sense, stands for the art of taking care of oneself.” What this means is that first, a doctor assesses and explains the current health condition and then the realities of professional and everyday life are looked at in a psychodynamic conversation.

All the experts agree that at least a two, or even better, a three-week stay is necessary to achieve lasting effects and success even after having returned home. In the end, according to Färber, it is all about letting guests know that what they are doing has value: “Because they have not done anything wrong but have come to us to affect change themselves.” Is there hope that, in future, millennials will get a better grasp on stress, given their work-life-balance expectations? The medical health centre experts hope so, but have their doubts. “People nowadays often lack stability. Everything is being questioned,”says Beck, and Frei adds: “A lot will depend on how we will define and find inner peace in future.”

Photo: © Pixabay

Photo: © Klosterhof, Artemacur Spa

A lot of stress management and burnout programmes swear by improving the physical conditions through physical measures which in turn have a relaxing and relieving effect on the mind.

Rickatschwende Health Centre, with a 50 room hotel, has 30 years of experience in this area and mainly works with the F.X. Mayr therapy. After an initial medical consultation, guests are prescribed a mix of physical treatments, massages and active units, in, for example, the pool or gym. The special gentle diet is designed to detox and deacidify. Guests learn to eat slower and in a more mindful way and, each day, they take part in one of 40 group activities Issue 67 | October 2018 | 65

Discover Germany | Business | Architect of the Month, Germany

Haus W, Caputh.

ARC HITE C T OF TH E MONTH , GERM A N Y

The perfect symbioses between building and surroundings

TEXT: MARILENA STRACKE | PHOTOS: THOMAS BEYER ARCHITEKTEN

The Berlin-based bureau Thomas Beyer Architects designs the ideal interplay between architecture and its surroundings. Because the most important stage is developing the concept in close dialogue with the client, Thomas Beyer calculates plenty of time for this. The result is dream houses where everything is on point.

Thomas Beyer grew up surrounded by a passion for art and architecture: his mother is a musician, his father an architect.

Having been raised between those two exciting fields, Beyer first studied music but swapped to architecture, which he studied at the Bauhaus university Weimar and in Milan at the Politecnico di Milano.

Only two years after graduating, Beyer became self-employed. The satisfaction of his clients, as well as a vast range of awards and competitions won, all speaks for itself.

Beyer’s projects have received the German Design Award 2018 and the Häuser Award 2012 to name but a few, as well as being winners of numerous realisation and ideas competitions such as Häfenmarkt Hildburghausen, the extension of the Federal Criminal Police Office Berlin and the Citizen Quartier Esslingen.

66 | Issue 67 | October 2018

“For me, the building is the answer to the surroundings and the requirements of the user,” Beyer explains. “It’s not about the self-realisation of the architect. We are very cautious and careful when we make changes to a location.”

Hence the first impulse comes from the existing surroundings that Beyer’s architecture reacts to. On the other side, the clients give impulses and Beyer aims to design their constructional environment in a functional and formal manner. Therefore, clients are included intensively during that first phase.

This special focus on the planning stages and the resulting increase in time spent on it, pays off and, according to Beyer, guarantees long-lasting client satisfaction.

The bureau works with different sectors: the commercial area, particularly the ho-

tel industry, as well as private clients who value individuality. “In both areas it is important to follow smart operational sequences, and to organise and design spatial generosity in an initially small space,” Beyer adds.

Aside from residential buildings, the architect is currently working on two exclusive hotel projects by the Baltic Sea. This includes everything from authentic guesthouses to SPA areas and outdoor pools.

Certain parts are dealt with in the context of existing buildings and having to take the preservation of historical monuments and gardens into account.

For all concepts, the goal is to turn a building into a space of experience. Thanks to perfect lighting, arrangement of the rooms and merging the exteriors, Beyer creates visual axis’ resulting in an atmosphere of spaciousness.

Beyer designs spaces where one can simply breathe.

Discover Germany | Business | Architect of the Month, Germany

Die perfekte Symbiose zwischen Gebäude und Umgebung Das Berliner Büro Thomas Beyer Architekten findet das ideale Zusammenspiel von Architektur und Umgebung. Da gerade die erste Phase des Entwerfens mit einem vertrauten Dialog mit den Kunden wichtig ist, plant Thomas Beyer viel Zeit dafür ein. Das Resultat sind Traumhäuser, bei denen einfach alles stimmt.

Individualität legen. „In beiden Gebieten ist es wichtig gute Funktionsabläufe und räumliche Großzügigkeit auf zunächst kleinem Raum zu organisieren und zu gestalten“, fügt Beyer hinzu.

„Für mich ist das Gebäude die Antwort auf Ort und Bedürfnisse des Nutzers“, erklärt Beyer. „Es geht nicht um die Selbstverwirklichung des Architekten. Wir versuchen jeden Eingriff in den Ort zurückhaltend vorzunehmen.“

Neben Wohnhäusern arbeitet der Architekt aktuell unter anderem an zwei exklusiven Hotel-Projekten an der Ostsee mit allem was dazu gehört, von Logierhäusern, SPABereichen bis hin zum Außenpool zum Teil im Kontext von Bestandsgebäuden und teilweise unter Berücksichtigung von Belangen der Bauund Gartendenkmalpflege.

Thomas Beyer wurde die Liebe zu Kunst und Architektur quasi in die Wiege gelegt. Seine Mutter ist Musikerin und sein Vater ebenfalls Architekt. Aufgewachsen zwischen diesen zwei Spannungsfeldern, studierte Beyer erst Musik und wechselte dann zum Fach Architektur, welches er an der Bauhausuniversität Weimar, sowie in Mailand am Politecnico di Milano studierte.

Bereits zwei Jahre nach seinem Diplom machte sich Beyer selbstständig. Nicht nur die Zufriedenheit seiner Kunden, sondern auch eine ganze Reihe an Preisen und gewonnenen Wettbewerben sprechen für sich. So sind Beyers Projekte z.B. Preisträger des German Design Award 2018 und des Häuser Award 2012, und weiterhin Preisträger diverser Realisierungsund Ideenwettbewerbe wie u.a. Häfenmarkt Hildburghausen, Erweiterung Dienstsitz Bundeskriminalamt Berlin oder Citizen Quartier Esslingen.

Die ersten Impulse kommen also von der bereits bestehenden Umgebung, auf welche Beyer mit seiner Architektur reagiert. Zum anderen kommen sie natürlich vom Auftraggeber, dessen bauliches Umfeld es laut Beyer funktional und formal zu gestalten gilt. Dazu werden die Bauherren intensiv in die erste Phase mit eingebunden. Dieser besondere Fokus auf die Planungsphase und der damit verbundene höhere Zeitaufwand, zahlt sich aus und garantiert die langfristige Zufriedenheit des Kunden, so Beyer.

Bei allen Entwürfen gilt es das Haus zum Erlebnisraum werden zu lassen. Durch Lichtführung, Raumfolge und die Verschmelzung mit dem Außenraum werden Blickachsen erzeugt und eine Atmosphäre von Weite geschaffen.

Beyer entwirft Räumlichkeiten, in denen man einfach atmen kann. www.beyerarchitekten.de

Das Büro bedient verschiedene Zielgruppen: den gewerblichen Bereich, vor allem die Hotelbranche sowie Privatkunden, die Wert auf

Haus S+P, Wilhelmshorst.

Issue 67 | October 2018 | 67

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w w w . k u e h n - p a r t n e r. c o m P U E RTO A N D R AT X Avda. Mateo Bosch 26, 07157 Te l . 9 7 1 6 7 4 2 0 2 a n d r a t x @ k u h n - p a r t n e r. c o m POLLENSA c/ Cecilio Metelo 67, 07460 Te l . 9 7 1 5 3 5 1 3 2 p o l l e n s a @ k u h n - p a r t n e r. c o m

P U E RTO P O RTA L S Local 32, 07181 Te l . 9 7 1 6 7 7 4 5 2 p o r t a l s @ k u h n - p a r t n e r. c o m IBIZA Marina Botafoch 301, 07800 Te l . 9 7 1 1 9 2 0 3 0 i b i z a @ k u h n - p a r t n e r. c o m

SÓLLER Ctra. de Deià 1, 07100 Te l . 9 7 1 6 3 3 4 0 8 s o l l e r @ k u h n - p a r t n e r. c o m MADRID Plaza de la Fuente 1, 28109 Te l . 9 1 5 7 7 7 9 9 7 m a d r i d @ k u h n - p a r t n e r. c o m

SPECIAL THEME: FOCUS ON ENERGY TECHNOLOGIES

Innovation as far as the eye can see In the following special theme, we take a look at some of the most exciting energy technologies and introduce you to the masterminds behind them. Welcome to the future!

PHOTOS: PIXABAY

70 | Issue 67 | October 2018

Discover Germany | Special Theme | Focus on Energy Technologies

Daten einfach erfassen Das Kölner Unternehmen pixolus ist ein absoluter Pionier in Sachen mobiler Datenerfassung. pixolus entwickelt Scanfunktionen und Apps, um Daten einfach per Smartphone-Kamera zu digitalisieren. Innovative Lösungen zur automatisierten Datenerfassung – dafür steht pixolus.

Der Name pixolus leitet sich aus Pixel und Solution ab. Das Team besteht aus Ingenieuren, Informatikern, Betriebswirten sowie App-Entwicklern und entwickelt smarte Lösungen zur Digitalisierung von Prozessen für verschiedene Branchen.

Egal, ob man Zählerstände von Strom, Gas, Wasser oder Wärme mit der App pixometer ablesen will oder Apps für

Medizin, Logistik oder Marketing benötigt – pixolus macht die Datenerfassung mit individuell entwickelten Lösungen zum Kinderspiel. Ähnlich wie beim Erfassen eines QR-Codes werden auch Buchstaben und Ziffern per Kamera erkannt.

Zum eingeschworenen Kundenstamm von pixolus gehören im Energiebereich innogy Metering, Vattenfall, Yello und ver-

TEXT: MARILENA STRACKE | FOTOS: PIXOLUS

schiedene Stadtwerke. In der Medizinbranche zählen aescologic und ODI Medical zu den Kunden, aktuell läuft im Konsortium mit der Uniklinik RWTH Aachen und Philips ein App-Projekt zur Pflegedokumentation. Im Auftrag von SOPHOS hat pixolus für eine Messe eine interaktive Multimedia-App entwickelt. pixolus bietet nicht nur kundenspezifische Apps, sondern auch eine umfassende Beratung zu Systemintegration und Digitalisierung. Rundum ein guter Partner. www.pixolus.de

Von links nach rechts: pixolus-Geschäftsführer: Dr.-Ing. Mark Asbach (li.) und Dr. Stefan Krausz. pixometer App für die Zählerstandserfassung per Smartphone-Kamera. m.o.p.s.-App für Lagermanagement bei aescologic. Foto: © aescologic. KOMEET-Projekt: App zur Intensivpflege-Dokumentation. Foto: © Uniklinik RWTH Aachen

Issue 67 | October 2018 | 71

Discover Germany | Special Theme | Focus on Energy Technologies

beegy web portal.

Service and product world of beegy.

HERMINE, the charging system.

Car photo: © AdobeStock

TEXT: MARILENA STRACKE | PHOTOS: BEEGY GMBH

Manage the sun at home Manage the sun at home At the innovative Mannheim-based company beegy, it is all about the energy of the future. The pioneers offer white label solutions for decentralised energy supply – regardless if it is for public utility, manufacturing or retail, the different products and services are relevant for all.

Bei der innovativen Mannheimer Firma beegy dreht sich alles um die Energie der Zukunft. Die Pioniere bieten White Label Lösungen für die dezentrale Energieversorgung an – egal ob Stadtwerke, Hersteller oder Einzelhändler, die verschiedenen Produkte und Dienstleistungen sind für alle relevant.

Decentralised energy management is becoming an increasingly important subject. The young company beegy recognised this and now offers not just market proven products – from photovoltaics to battery storage and charging station – but also complete packages including services. Corporate customers can therefore offer energy solutions under their own brand name and with contractual relation to the end customers, but still receive maximum support from beegy.

Dezentrales Energiemanagement wird zu einem immer wichtigeren Thema. Das junge Unternehmen beegy hat dies erkannt und bietet nicht nur markterprobte Produkte – von Photovoltaik zu Batteriespeicher und Ladestationen – sondern auch Komplettpakete inklusive Services.

Unternehmenskunden können so Energielösungen unter ihrer eigenen Marke und mit Vertragsbeziehung zum Endkunden anbieten, erhalten aber maximalen Support von beegy.

“Regardless if it is a single-booked standalone service like the energy flat rate BALU or the convenient complete package for independent power supply and electromobility – with our modular system everything can be customised for individual requirements,” explains Carsten Bruns, beegy’s managing director.“Our modular IoT-platform allows an efficient implementation along the process chain. This means different kinds of industries such as automobile and component production can expand their portfolio with short time-to-market and hence conquer new areas of business.”

For companies from other sectors, beegy also has smart energy solutions on offer such as its newest service HERMINE. This is an intelligent charging system for e-cars, which links the local photovoltaic system and battery storage (if required) with a controllable charging station that can be used via an app. That way, the e-car is predominantly charged from solar power from the roof, which results in savings compared to the unregulated charging from mains supply.

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„Ob einzeln buchbare Stand-alone Services wie BALU, die Stromflatrate oder komfortable Komplettlösungen für die autarke Stromversorgung und Elektromobilität – durch unser Baukastensystem können diese unternehmensindividuell zusammengestellt werden“, erklärt Carsten Bruns, Geschäftsführer von beegy. „Unsere modulare IoT-Plattform ermöglicht die effiziente Umsetzung entlang der Prozesskette. So können unterschiedlichste Industrien wie Automobilisten oder Komponentenhersteller mit einer kurzen Time-to-Market ihr Portfolio erweitern und neue Geschäftsfelder erschließen.“ Auch für branchenfremde Unternehmen hat beegy smarte Stromlösungen parat. So zum Beispiel der neueste Service HERMINE, eine intelligente Ladesteuerung für Elektroautos, welche die lokale Photovoltaikanlage und ggf. den Batteriespeicher mit einer steuerbaren Ladestation vernetzt und sich bequem per App steuern lässt. Das Elektroauto wird so bevorzugt mit Solarstrom vom eigenen Dach geladen, womit ein Einspareffekt gegenüber ungeregeltem Laden mit Netzbezug erzielt wird. www.beegy.com

Wir begeistern mit Energie.

Smart E-Mobility für Sie! Starten Sie jetzt in die Zukunft der Elektromobilität. Wir begleiten Sie von Anfang an und haben die richtigen Lösungen für Ihren individuellen Bedarf – ob für Gäste oder Mitarbeiter, Fahrzeugflotten oder Immobilien. Dabei denken wir ganzheitlich und integrieren Eigenerzeugung und Stromspeicher über ein intelligentes Energiemanagement. Eben smart!

www.mvv.de/elektromobilitaet

Discover Germany | Special Theme | Focus on Energy Technologies

Monitoring and analysis of energy flows within a company are the basis for optimisation. Photo: © Getty Images

TEXT: MARILENA STRACKE

Energy and efficiency as a service The subject of energy is an enormous and even more complex challenge for every company. From Co2-reduction and e-mobility to energy efficiency – the Mannheim-based energy company MVV Energie AG offers a holistic approach with complete energy services for medium-sized as well as industrial businesses.

Tailor-made and efficacious: energy and efficiency as a service.

Optimising the management of energy is a complex task for companies of any size and from any sector. This is partly due to regulatory standards for energy efficiency from which responsibilities for modernising or reconstruction can arise. At the same time, the right procurement and efficient use of energy are becoming an important competitive factor.

Especially medium-sized companies often lack the expertise to manage their energy needs. That is why MVV supports clients regarding single aspects or takes on whole energy concepts so that clients can focus entirely on their core business.

Innovative solutions “As a leading energy and efficiency partner, we offer our clients innovative solu74 | Issue 67 | October 2018

tions, which we individually put together with our partners from our large portfolio,” says Dr. Joachim Hofmann, managing director of MVV’s daughter company MVV Enamic, which specialises in energy efficiency services for medium-sized companies and the industrial sector. “We secure the supply of energy and take on the long-term responsibility for planning, realisation, operation and optimisation of an efficient energy infrastructure. This makes us the central energy contact point for our customers.”

Focus on medium-sized companies MVV’s product portfolio is particularly interesting for medium-sized companies.

Unlike large corporations, medium-sized businesses often do not have their own energy expert. Here, MVV functions as the

energy manager and takes responsibility for the company’s entire energy sector.

This includes the professional supply of power and gas through their own trading house as well as perfect solutions for the decentralised generation of power and heat on site. An important factor for lowering costs is also the optimisation of existing energy infrastructures and energy consumption. MVV uses comprehensive and innovative energy monitoring to collect relevant data. The analysis of the results forms the base for concrete recommendations – including technical and trading optimisation. The subsequent implementation of efficiency measurements is also part of MVV’s services.

E-mobility for companies In this context, e-mobility is gaining importance, especially with regard to lowering emissions and costs.“If done correctly, electromobility can bring economic advantages and boost the image,” says Dr. Hofmann.

“The automobile manufacturers keep add-

Discover Germany | Special Theme | Focus on Energy Technologies

Energy and efficiency as a service Das Thema Energie ist eine große und vor allem immer komplexere Herausforderung für jedes Unternehmen. Von CO2-Reduktion und e-mobility bis zu mehr Energieeffizienz – das Mannheimer Energieunternehmen MVV Energie AG setzt auf eine ganzheitliche Herangehensweise und bietet seinen Kunden aus Mittelstand und Industrie komplette Serviceleistungen. Individuell und effizient: Energy and efficiency as a service.

Für Firmen jeder Größenordnung und in jeder Branche ist die optimale Bereitstellung von Energie eine komplexe Aufgabe. Das liegt zum Beispiel an den regulatorischen Vorgaben für Energieeffizienz, aus denen sich Pflichten für Modernisierung oder Umbau ergeben können.

Gleichzeitig werden die richtige Beschaffung und effiziente Nutzung von Energie zu einem wichtigen Wettbewerbsfaktor.

effizienzdienstleistungen für Mittelstand und Industrie spezialisierten MVV-Tochter MVV Enamic. „Wir sichern die Bereitstellung von Energie und übernehmen langfristig Verantwortung für Planung, Realisierung, Betrieb und Optimierung einer effizienten Energie-Infrastruktur. Damit sind wir der zentrale Ansprechpartner für unsere Kunden rund um das Thema Energie.“

Allein ist das für ein mittelständisches Unternehmen oft kaum zu bewältigen. Daher unterstützt MVV ihre Kunden bei einzelnen Aspekten des Energiemanagements oder übernimmt das komplette Energiekonzept, so dass die Kunden sich voll und ganz auf ihr Kerngeschäft konzentrieren können.

Fokus auf den Mittelstand

Innovative Lösungen „Als führender Energie- und Effizienzpartner bieten wir unseren Kunden innovative Lösungen, die wir gemeinsam mit unseren Partnern aus einem breiten Portfolio individuell zusammenstellen“, erklärt Dr. Joachim Hofmann, Geschäftsführer der auf Energie-

Die Energiewelt wird immer komplexer. MVV ist ganzheitlicher Effizienzpartner für Geschäftskunden. Foto: © MVV

Vor allem für mittelständische Firmen ist das Produktportfolio der MVV höchst interessant.

Anders als Großkonzerne haben Mittelständler meist keine eigenen Energieexperten. Dort übernimmt die MVV als Energiemanager die Verantwortung für den gesamten Energiebereich der Firma.

Dabei ist die professionelle Beschaffung von Strom und Gas über das eigene Handelshaus ebenso eingeschlossen wie passende Lösungen für die dezentrale Erzeugung von Strom und Wärme vor Ort. Ein wichtiger Hebel für die Senkung der Kosten ist ferner die Optimie-

rung der vorhandenen Energieinfrastruktur sowie des eigenen Energieverbrauchs. MVV setzt dabei ein umfangreiches und innovatives Energie-Monitoring ein. Die Analyse der Ergebnisse liefert die Grundlage für konkrete Handlungsempfehlungen – sowohl für die technische wie auch die kaufmännische Optimierung. Auch die anschließende Umsetzung von Effizienzmaßnahmen ist Teil der Serviceleistungen der MVV.

Elektromobilität für Unternehmen Erheblich an Bedeutung gewonnen hat in diesem Zusammenhang die Elektromobilität, vor allem mit Blick auf eine Senkung der Emissionen und der Kosten. „Elektromobilität kann, wenn sie richtig eingesetzt wird, wirtschaftliche Vorteile und zugleich einen Imagegewinn bringen“, sagt Dr. Hofmann. „Die Automobilhersteller bringen in zunehmendem Maße neue, konkurrenzfähige Elektrofahrzeuge auf den Markt und passen ihre Strategien darauf an. Auch politisch geht es ebenfalls ganz klar in Richtung Elektromobilität. Daher haben wir speziell für unsere Geschäftskunden neue, integrierte Lösungen entwickelt.“ Im Fokus des Mannheimer Energieunternehmens stehen dabei die für Geschäftskunden relevanten Anwendungsfelder. Das ist zum einen das Mitarbeiterladen, wobei neben der Infrastruktur vor allem die Abrechnung des

Die optimale Beschaffung von Energie an den Börsen hilft dabei, Preisrisiken zu minimieren. Foto: © MVV

Issue 67 | October 2018 | 75

Discover Germany | Special Theme | Focus on Energy Technologies

ing competitive e-cars to the market and adjust their strategies accordingly. Politically, everything points towards electromobility as well. That’s why we developed new integrated solutions especially for our business customers.”

consumer and hence numerous new requirements, especially for B2B clients. As an energy company, we are the right contact to view and approach electromobility holistically.”

these worlds in our holistic solutions,” Dr. Hofmann adds. “This makes us a partner who can take all aspects into account and who can relieve clients from all responsibility regarding energy.”

Optimising Data security

The focus of the Mannheim-based energy company lies on the areas of the application of e-mobility which are relevant to their business customers. That is, on the one side, the charging of employees’ cars which, aside from the infrastructure, also calls for a solution regarding billing. For the electrification of company fleets, particularly with a lot of short-haul traffic (i.e. in the logistics or care industry) MVV developed customised products with its partners. This also applies to facilities offering customer parking with charging opportunities.

With all solutions, data security is a special focus of MVV. For companies, this very important area offers great possibilities for optimisation. “Practically in every company, more and more business processes are supported digitally and have to work reliably non-stop,” Dr.Hofmann emphasises. “The energy demands in the server rooms are hence increasing. High availability and energy efficiency can be connected perfectly. This requires the right technical concept, so the investment pays off.”

MVV is the central energy manager for medium-sized companies. Here, energy turns into an all-round service.

For the property sector, electromobility is also becoming more significant because charging stations add value to residential buildings. “Of course, it is not enough to simply install a charging station somewhere,” Dr. Hofmann explains further.

“This installation means there is a new

MVV always views its clients’ data centres as an energetic infrastructure as well, and offers solutions in line with it – from consultation and planning to construction and operation. Those facilities need complex technical energy infrastructures and are therefore important elements of a company’s energy system. “We integrate

About MVV With around 6,000 employees and sales of four billion euros, MVV is one of Germany‘s leading energy companies. Their activities focus on providing a reliable, economical and environmentally-friendly supply of energy to their industrial, commercial and private household customers. The individual needs and expectations of those customers motivate MVV in developing innovative products and business models.

As a competent and experienced efficiency partner, MVV Enamic, a subsidiary of MVV, develops intelligent energy products and innovative solutions for industry, trade and commerce as well as for the real estate sector. This enables the company to help its customers throughout Germany to participate in the energy transition and to take advantage of the arising opportunities.

Electromobility in companies needs special solutions for infrastructure and billing. Photo: © Getty Images

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Discover Germany | Special Theme | Focus on Energy Technologies

MVV bietet Lösungen für alle Anwendungsfälle der Elektromobilität in Unternehmen. Foto: © MVV

Intelligente Zähler sind unverzichtbare Helfer beim optimalen Einsatz von Energie in Unternehmen. Foto: © MVV

Stroms spezielle Lösungen erfordert. Für die Elektrifizierung von Dienstwagenflotten, insbesondere bei viel Kurzstreckenverkehr z. B. in der Logistik- oder Pflegebranche, hat MVV gemeinsam mit Partnern maßgeschneiderte Produkte entwickelt. Das gilt auch für die Einrichtung von Kundenparkplätzen mit Lademöglichkeiten.

Für die Immobilienwirtschaft wächst die Bedeutung von Elektromobilität ebenfalls stark, denn dort geht es darum, Wohnimmobilien mit Lademöglichkeiten auf den Parkflächen aufzuwerten. „Natürlich ist es nicht damit getan, einfach irgendwo eine Ladesäule zu installieren“, erläutert Dr. Hofmann. „Aus dieser Installation entsteht nämlich ein neuer Verbraucher und dementsprechend zahlreiche neue Anforderungen, gerade für die B2B-Kunden. Als Energieunternehmen sind wir hier der richtige Ansprechpartner, um das Thema Elektromobilität ganzheitlich zu betrachten und anzugehen.“

Datensicherheit optimieren Besonderes Augenmerk legt die MVV bei diesen Lösungen immer auch auf das Thema der Datensicherheit. Für Unternehmen bietet dieser extrem wichtige Bereich gute Chancen für Optimierungen. „In praktisch jedem Unternehmen werden immer mehr Geschäftsprozesse digital unterstützt und müssen jederzeit zuverlässig laufen“, betont Dr. Hofmann. „Der Energiebedarf in den Serverräumen steigt dementsprechend weiter an. Eine hohe Verfügbarkeit und mehr Energieeffizienz lassen sich exzellent verbinden. Die Voraussetzung dafür ist das richtige technische Konzept, damit sich die Investitionen rechnen.“

Bei Contracting-Lösungen für die Energieversorgung investiert der Contractor, so dass der Kunde vom ersten Tag an Kosten spart. Foto: © MVV

MVV betrachtet die Rechenzentren der Kunden daher immer auch als energetische Infrastruktur und bringt dafür die entsprechenden Lösungen mit – von Beratung und Planung über den Bau bis zum Betrieb. Denn solche Einrichtungen benötigen eine komplexe technische und energetische Infrastruktur. Sie sind also wichtige Elemente im Energiesystem eines Unternehmens. „Wir integrieren diese Welten in unser ganzheitliches Lösungskonzept“, erläutert Dr. Hofmann. „Somit sind wir ein Partner, der tatsächlich alle Aspekte berücksichtigt und den Kunden so in Sachen Energie komplett entlastet.“ MVV ist der zentrale Energiemanager für den Mittelstand – hier wird das Thema Energie rundum zu einer effizienten Serviceleistung.

Über MVV Mit rund 6.000 Mitarbeitern und einem Umsatz von vier Milliarden Euro ist die Mannheimer MVV Energie AG eines der führenden Energieunternehmen in Deutschland. Im Fokus des Unternehmens steht die zuverlässige, wirtschaftliche und umweltfreundliche Energieversorgung der Kunden aus Industrie, Gewerbe und Privathaushalten. Für ihre individuellen Bedürfnisse und Erwartungen entwickelt MVV innovative Produkte und Geschäftsmodelle.

Als kompetenter und erfahrener Effizienzpartner entwickelt MVV Enamic, eine Tochtergesellschaft der MVV, intelligente Energieprodukte und innovative Lösungen für Industrie, Handel und Gewerbe sowie für die Immobilienwirtschaft. Damit ermöglicht es das Unternehmen seinen Kunden bundesweit, an der Energiewende teilzuhaben und die sich bietenden Chancen zu nutzen.

www.mvv.de/partner Issue 67 | October 2018 | 77

Discover Germany | Business | Germany’s Expert for Energy and IT-Consulting

New employees 2018.

The dock14 office, built by cronos.

TEXT: ROBERT KAMPF, JESSICA HOLZHAUSEN I PHOTOS: CRONOS

The future of the utility industry is digital

Die Zukunft der Versorgungsbranche ist digital

From a garage to the Silicon-Harbor in Münster: cronos has kept its dynamic, innovative power and start-up attitude intact – only the rooms at dock14 have become larger and more attractive than the garage the company was founded in, in 1991. Today however, cronos is considered the leading IT-consultancy for the utilities sector.

Aus der Garage an den Silicon-Harbor Münster: Dynamik, Innovationskraft und Start-up-Klima hat man sich bei cronos erhalten, nur die Räumlichkeiten im dock14 am Hafen sind inzwischen wesentlich großzügiger und einladender geworden als die Gründer-Garage 1991 in Senden. cronos gilt heute als das marktführende Beratungsunternehmen für die Versorgungsbranche.

cronos puts its focus on the digitalisation of processes and the development of new business areas for utility companies – always on the cutting edge of new technological trends. Today, the 300 cronos consultants advise clients from the company’s six offices in Germany, Austria and Switzerland.

Im Mittelpunkt steht bei cronos die Digitalisierung von Prozessen und Erschließung neuer Geschäftsfelder für Versorgungsunternehmen – und das ganz nah am Puls aktueller Technologie-Trends. Die 300 Mitarbeiter beraten Klienten inzwischen von sechs Standorten in Deutschland, Österreich und der Schweiz aus.

Energy suppliers need new business models and, at the same time, more efficiency and higher automation in existing divisions. It is a balancing act between innovation in new sectors and efficiency enhancement, as well as savings in the core business. cronos is specialised in dealing with these challenges in process consulting and systems implementation, and profits from a long-term partnership with SAP.

Energieversorger brauchen neue Geschäftsmodelle und gleichzeitig mehr Effizienz und höhere Automatisierung in den bestehenden Sparten. Ein Spagat also zwischen Innovation in den neuen Geschäftsfeldern und Effizienzsteigerung, sowie Einsparung im Kerngeschäft. Genau auf diese Herausforderungen ist cronos in der Prozessberatung und Systemimplementierung spezialisiert und profitiert von langjähriger Erfahrung als fester Partner der SAP.

Innovation is key, and next to SAP products like S/4HANA, C/4HANA and SAP Cloud Platform, the company works on the further development and application of new technologies like robotic process automation, process mining, blockchain and machine learning.

“We are a team that has a good mixture of young and experienced IT specialists, who are sought-after consultants in this sector,” says cronos CEO Marcus Krüger. cronos engages with universities and the tech scene and recruits more than 50 new IT specialists for the energy sector every year.

Innovation ist dabei der Schlüssel, denn neben den neuesten SAP Produkten wie S/4HANA, C/4HANA und der SAP Cloud Platform widmen sich die cronologen in der Entwicklung und Beratung vor allem der Weiterentwicklung und Anwendung neuer Technologien wie Robotic Process Automation, Process Mining, Blockchain und Machine Learning. „Wir sind ein Team mit einer guten Mischung aus jungen und erfahrenen IT-Spezialisten, die gefragte Ratgeber in der Branche sind“, sagt Marcus Krüger, Geschäftsführer bei cronos. Dementsprechend engagiert sich cronos an Universitäten und in der Tech-Szene und rekrutiert jedes Jahr über 50 neue IT Spezialisten für den Energiesektor. www.cronos.de | twitter.com/CronosGmbh | youtube.com/c/cronosTV

78 | Issue 67 | October 2018

Discover Germany | Business | Solicitor Column

Brexit and financial services Six months to go. The inevitability of Brexit is now pretty much universally accepted.

In a best case scenario, agreement will be reached on the terms on which the UK leaves the EU in time for a no-deal scenario to be avoided. This will be combined with a political declaration as to the future UK-EU relationship, and a transitional period will then be put in place until the end of 2020 to enable some form of arrangements to be agreed for Britain’s future trading relationship with the EU outside of the internal market and customs union.

Most industry sectors have contingency plans more or less in place if they are not already in the process of implementing them. There are few sectors, however, where the potential impact of Brexit will be quite as significant, and the implications quite as far reaching, as for financial services. Key issues concern the end of Euro-denominated clearing through the City of London through so-called central counterparties, the loss of passporting rights that currently provide financial institutions with EU wide access to financial markets, the end of free movement for the European employees and managers, on whose expertise the City of London currently depends, the continuity of cross-border contracts with and between financial institutions, and doubts about the legal framework for the cross-border transfer of data between the UK and the EU currently governed by GDPR, to name but a few. Financial institutions have already moved some staff and service lines out of the UK and more are likely to follow. Lloyds of London has set up an operation in Brussels. The European Banking Authority is leaving London for Paris.

For the UK, these are by no means theoretical problems: in 2016, financial services contributed some 119 billion GBP to the British economy, half of which was generated in London. Britain has a significant trade surplus with the rest of the world in financial services (some 60 billion GBP in

TEXT & PHOTO: GREGOR KLEINKNECHT

exports compared to imports of just about 10 billion GBP) and 44 per cent of financial services exports go to the EU. So how is the UK preparing the financial services sector for Brexit? The European Union (Withdrawal) Act 2018 envisages that, on the day of Brexit, all existing and directly applicable EU legislation (the socalled ‘acquis communautaire’) will automatically be incorporated into British law and continue to apply. In the area of financial services, it is difficult to see how this will work in practice, given that EU financial services law relies significantly on regulatory bodies (such as the EBA, ESMA, EIOPA and ECB) which Britain will cease to be a member of at the same time. The withdrawal legislation therefore envisages that the newly nationalised EU law will be adapted where necessary to the new circumstances. In the context of financial services regulation, this will require UK bodies, such as the Financial Conduct Authority, Prudential Regulation Authority and Bank of England, to be given the requisite powers and structures both nationally and for cooperating with their EU and other international counterparts. Little has so far happened in this respect.

The recent and now much debated Chequers proposal provided no comfort to the financial services industry, given that it jettisoned a future reliance on passporting rights before they even reached the negotiating table. Instead, the UK is aiming for regulatory independence from the EU, combined with an expanded equivalence framework, mutual recognition of equivalence, supervisory cooperation and regulatory dialogue. Existing free trade agreements between the EU and third countries, such as Canada, Japan and South Korea make no or only very limited provision for financial services and therefore do not provide a template for closer cooperation, and the EU has so far not been for the idea of including financial services in a possible future free-trade agreement with the UK.

And if there is no deal? The government sought to answer this question with its technical paper Banking, insurance and other financial services if there’s no Brexit deal, published on 23 August 2018. It proposes inter alia to put in place a temporary permissions regime that will allow EEA firms currently passporting into the UK to continue to do so for a limited time and further proposes to implement a temporary recognition regime for non-UK central counterparties to ensure continuity of clearing services for UK firms. At the same time, the government recognises that the UK will lose access to the EU financial market infrastructure, including Target 2 and SEPA. So what are possible outcomes of Brexit for the financial services industry? At present, it looks most likely that the current EU third country regime and equivalence rules will be applied to the UK, combined with a formalised process for bilateral consultation.

Let’s hope that a transition period will not only be agreed but also be used effectively to put in place workable solutions for the future of the financial services industry.

Gregor Kleinknecht LM MCIArb is a German Rechtsanwalt and English solicitor, and a partner at Hunters Solicitors, a leading law firm in Central London.

Hunters Solicitors, 9 New Square, Lincoln’s Inn, London WC2A 3QN, E-mail: gjk@hunters-solicitors.co.uk www.hunters-solicitors.co.uk

Issue 67 | October 2018 | 79

Discover Germany | Culture | Language Column

On insults and being lucky – The delights of the German and French vocabulary In this column, author Adam Jacot de Boinod explores the weird and wonderful world of German and French vocabulary, and discovers some rather interesting terms. Let us take a look at what he has found.

TEXT: ADAM JACOT DE BOINOD | PHOTO: DREAMSTIME

Of the many examples of German insults one could draw on, here are two that are worthy and capable of being printed: - du bist doch dumm wie Brot: you are as dumb as bread - du kannst mir gern den Buckel runterrutschen und mit der Zunge bremsen: (Austrian-German) you can slide down my hunchback using your tongue as a brake German has two expressions for being lucky: Schwein haben − to have a pig: as a pig symbolises good luck and lots of sausages; and Sott haben − to have soot: because according to folklore, touching a chimney sweep brings luck.

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French is highly imaginative in its adoption of phrases from their literal definition to be given a whole new metaphorical sense: - coup de foudre: love at first sight (literally, a flash of lightning) - faire le tour du cadran: to sleep the day away (literally, to do the tour of the clock’s face) - appuyer sur le champignon: to put one’s foot down (literally, to stamp on the mushroom) - dialogue des sourds: a discussion in which neither party listens to the other (literally, a dialogue of the deaf) - se presser le citron: to rack one’s brains (literally, to squeeze the lemon)

- tiré à quatre épingles: dressed up to the nines (literally, drawn to four pins) - il ne se mouche pas du pied: he has airs above his station (literally, he doesn’t wipe his nose with his foot) - tirer la couverture a soi: to take the lion’s share, all the credit (literally, to pull the blanket towards oneself) - faire la grasse matinée: to sleep in (literally, to make a fat morning) - gober les mooches: to stand by idly (literally, to gulp down flies) - se mettre sur son trente et un: to wear one’s Sunday best (literally, to put on one’s thirty-one) - avoir la gueule de bois: to have a hangover (literally, to have a wooden mouth) Adam Jacot de Boinod worked on the first series of the BBC panel game QI for Stephen Fry. He is a British author having written three books about unusual words with Penguin Press.

Discover Germany | Culture | Culture Calendar

Radquer Weltcup Bern.

Photo: © Marc Gasch

Culture Calendar Halloween, autumn colours and a cool breeze after the summer’s heat wave: October promises to be a month full of good things. With different film festivals to choose from, cultural events aplenty and some sporty happenings thrown in, this month will be anything but boring.

14th Zurich Film Festival, Zurich (27 September – 7 October) Well-known actors, directors and celebrities come from all around the world to celebrate international film. Packed with premieres, numerous supporting talks and workshops, this is without a doubt one of the biggest annual events in Switzerland. www.zff.com

Berlin illuminated, Berlin (28 September – 14 October) There is no better event with which to welcome October in Germany’s capital. The colourful illuminations add magic to many lesser-known yet

significant buildings across the city, with vibrant lights. The installations and projections can be found all over Berlin, but focus on the areas Mitte, Tiergarten, Friedrichshain, Kreuzberg and Steglitz. www.berlin-leuchtet.com

Day of German Unity Celebrations, Berlin (3 October) The Day of German Unity is Germany’s national holiday. On this day, Germany remembers the reunification of the former GDR and the Federal Republic of Germany in 1990. Festivities take place around the Brandenburg Gate.

With numerous stages hosting live concerts

TEXT: MARILENA STRACKE

and plenty of street food stalls, this is one of the biggest street parties the capital offers. www.berlin.de

Schubertiade, Hohenems (3 – 9 October) This is considered to be the world’s number one Schubert festival running events all year, but the annual Schubertiade in Hohenems brings international audiences to Austria. This year kicks off with Quatuor Ebène and finishes with a marvellous recital. An absolute must for Schubert fans in particular and classical music lovers in general. www.schubertiade.at

Heinrich Schütz Musikfest, Dresden (5 – 14 October) This year, the Heinrich Schütz music festival has ‘Peace’ as its core theme. Various classical concerts invite guests to enjoy the music Issue 67 | October 2018 | 81

Discover Germany | Culture | Culture Calendar

Venus Berlin fair.

Photo: © venus-berlin.com

Gendarmenmarkt concert hall during Berlin leuchtet.

Photo: © Enrico Verworner

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Discover Germany | Culture | Culture Calendar but also reflect on the current state of our world. www.schuetz-musikfest.de

Lukas Flückiger at Weyerli.

Photo: © ZVG

ORF Long Night of Museums 2018, across Austria (6 October) For the 19th time, ORF is organising this cultural event across the whole of Austria. Starting at 6pm and lasting until 1am, various museums and galleries open their doors to nightly visitors.

Tonnes of special events, cool workshops and concerts accompany the long night of museums and turn Austria into a glamorous background for a truly magical night of culture. www.langenacht.orf.at

RheinEnergieMarathon, Cologne (7 October) This is the fourth-largest marathon in Germany and attracts more than 20,000 runners as well as schools and companies every year. Get sporty in beautiful Cologne – there is still time to sign up! www.rheinenergiemarathon-koeln.de

Venus Berlin, Berlin (11 – 14 October) Venus Berlin is the world’s leading trade show for erotic entertainment and lifestyle, held at the Messegelände trade fair grounds of the capital. Open to both professional visitors and the public, this fair has been up and running for over 21 years. Around 250 exhibitors from 40 different countries attract up to 30,000 guests each year. www.venus-berlin.com

FriScènes Theatre Festival, Fribourg (13 – 20 October) The international theatre festival FriScènes mixes professional and amateur theatre, kicking off at the ‘Noveau Monde’. It is widely viewed as an open creative space that encourages artistic dialogue and it is a wonderful platform for future collaborations and networking. www.friscenes.ch

Jazz & The City, Salzburg (17 – 21 October) The whole city turns into one big stage: 50 locations across Salzburg open their doors for around 100 concerts. The programme includes world music, jazz and electronica, played by international artists as well as local newcomers. www.salzburgjazz.com Issue 67 | October 2018 | 83

Discover Germany | Culture | Culture Calendar

Mookomba during the opening of Jazz & the City Salzburg. Photo: © Wildbild

shnit Worldwide Shortfilm Festival, Bern (18 – 28 October) The international short-film festival shnit is the biggest of its kind in Switzerland and a melting pot for emerging talent, both local and from abroad.

It shows the current trends of the film scene and offers a platform for more experimental work. www.new.shnit.org

Rendez-vous Bundesplatz, Bern (19 October – 21 November) This special event happens daily at 7pm and 8.30pm right outside the parliament building.

Each year, a beautiful show is projected onto the old building and creates a very special atmosphere. This year’s show is themed around The Little Prince and promises to be truly magical. www.rendezvousbundesplatz.ch

Venus Berlin fair.

Photo: © venus-berlin.com

Radquer-Weltcup, Bern (20 – 21 October) After eight years, the prestigious Radquer Worldcup has finally returned to Bern. The route runs around Europe’s largest artificial swimming pool and promises various exciting races in different categories. The return of the Radquer Cup has been widely anticipated and the day is finally here. www.ekz-crosstour.ch/Bern

Viennale Film Festival, Vienna (25 October – 8 November) The prestigious international film festival in Vienna has celebrities, filmmakers and guests from all over the world flocking to Austria. Now in its 56th edition, this event is firmly established in the international film scene with many premieres and events. If you are a film buff, this festival is an absolute must. www.viennale.at 84 | Issue 67 | October 2018

Long night of the museums Austria.

Photo: © ORF, Hans Leitner

Discover Germany | Culture | Culture Calendar

Cologne Marathon.

Photo: © Jan Drexler

Schuetz Music Festival Dresden at Church of Our Lady. Photo: © Mathias Marx

Horn players give the signal that the concert is about to start, Schubertiade Schwarzenberg.

Photo: © Schubertiade

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Discover Germany | Culture | Barbara Geier Column

The curse of the helicopter parent TEXT & PHOTO: BARBARA GEIER

So, going back to school or, in fact, starting school in the first place. During the past few weeks, hundreds of thousands of children started primary school. Do you remember your first day? I do. The dress (colourful, kind of square-shaped pattern, which looked better than it sounds), the hair (a fringe, horror!), the German tradition of carrying a ‘Schultüte’ (school bag), an oversized, decorated cardboard cornet filled with all kinds of little presents (mostly sweets) that you are given on your first day of school. Then, of course, making sure to get a seat next to my best friend from kindergarten. The excitement. I remember all that. It was a good day. I liked it. That is my memory.

What I do not remember is my mother being particularly nervous or obsessing about the whole thing. Well, maybe she was without showing it but what she definitely and luckily was not, neither on the first nor on any of the following days, is what is nowadays called a helicopter parent, apparently the curse of primary school teachers in particular. I read some hilarious stories recently about German parents (mothers mostly) – and I am pretty sure similar things apply to many other countries – who go to incredible lengths to make sure that their child is – well, what actually? I am not so sure of that. Of course, you want your little ones that you have just sent off and out into the big, wild world of schooling to be ok and happy and feel fine. But is it really necessary to hang around on the school’s premises once you have dropped off your son to observe what is going on there during the rest of the day, including hiding behind the bushes on the school yard during break time to make 86 | Issue 67 | October 2018

sure no harm is done to him? That is one of the stories I read and that was told by a primary school teacher who called this her best helicopter parent moment: “When I approached her one break time, she made herself very small behind the bushes, hoping not to be seen. I almost felt sorry for her in that instant.” Well, understandably so, I fear this woman has issues...

Or how about the so-called ‘premium parking spaces’ another teacher reports of: the best, i.e. closest, spots to park when picking up your child so that the precious little thing does not have to walk too far.

Apparently, mothers and fathers fight for them on a daily basis. If you want one of those, you need to be there at least 30 minutes before school is out, and one mother, so the story goes, always leaves her engine on when it is getting chilly so that her son does not have to get into a cold car. Ahhhhhh!!!! Ok, anything else? Yes, sure, how about this: kids in their first year of primary school, equipped with their own mobile phones who receive WhatsApp messages from their parents during class. More? No problem. There is, in fact, so much material that two editors of the German online magazine Spiegel.de have just published their second book of collected stories. Ok then, another one, so that I lose all faith in the human race: one teacher was called to the school’s office because a mother was on the phone, asking how many times her son had been sneezing during the first two hours of school. Thank God I never became a teacher. I would be in prison by now.

As amusing as all of this is on the one hand, as downright annoying and also

worrying I find it on the other. I feel it is those parents who need to go back to school and learn how to behave, dare I say it, sensibly. Apparently, they do not trust anyone or anything. Not teachers, not doctors and least of all their own intuition.

God, am I happy that I was born in a time that was not so paranoid about bringing up children. With a mother who was fulltime working without ever making a fuss about it and without neither my sister nor myself ever feeling in any way deprived.

Because, dear parents, most of the worries circling around in your heads are in no way reflected in real life. Just let your kids go to school. And stay out of the bushes.

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.

ab 24.03.18

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