Discover Germany, Issue 70, January 2019

Issue 70 | January 2019

J O HA N N ES

S T R AT E AUTH ENTIC STOR I ES & N EW SOU N DS

PLUS

SWISS CULTURAL HIGHLIGHTS OF 2019 FOCUS ON ZURICH GERMANY’S SUCCESSFUL START-UPS DESIGN, BUSINESS, 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

The only thing repeated here is great taste.

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Discover Germany | Contents

Contents JANUARY 2019

16 Photo: © Benedikt Schnermann

COVER FEATURE 16

Johannes Strate Revolverheld became a German household name when they released their debut album over a decade ago, and a lot has happened for the band since then. Frontman Johannes Strate talks to Discover Germany about the new album, the challenges of long-distance relationships and much more.

36 Photo: © Zuerich Tourismus, swiss-image.ch/Martin Ruetschi

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Switzerland’s Cultural Highlights of 2019 Whether you are on the hunt for modern art, sporting events or history museums, there is a vast array of cultural highlights to be found in Switzerland. We take a look at some that should not be missed in 2019.

Focus on Zurich – The City’s Highlights of 2019 While naturally impressing with a medieval old town with plenty of sights, charming streets and shops, Zurich is also a must-visit for art and culture fans, as well as nature enthusiasts. We therefore showcase some of the best places to visit in this special theme.

with the most recent season. Discover Germany presents and dissects the results.

REGULARS & COLUMNS 6

Dedicated to Design Whether you are searching for some skiing holiday outfit inspiration, Bauhausinspired design items, high-quality haute couture, great game ideas or top beauty products, be sure to take a look at our Design section.

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Culture Our Culture section is filled with great cultural highlights and more.

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Travel Read our Travel section if you want to find out more about great hotels, highlights in Zurich and more.

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Business Our Business section is filled with technology highlights, exclusive business profiles and more. Furthermore, our columnist Gregor Kleinknecht discusses the recent online shopping geoblocking regulation.

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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.

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

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Barbara Geier Column This month, our columnist Barbara Geier discusses the German work-life balance situation for the new year.

FEATURES 14

SPECIAL THEMES 26

Smart Home Trends 2019 Smart home solutions, also known as connected home solutions, are omnipresent today. In this following special theme, we take a look at some of the smart home sector’s top innovators.

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The Path to Becoming Parents For many of us, having children is a natural progression of life. But sometimes, nature needs a little bit of help. We introduce you to today’s specialists for endocrinology and reproductive medicine.

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Germany´s Successful Start-ups Start-ups that think outside the box are the future. And that is precisely why we are introducing you to some of Germany’s most successful start-ups in this theme.

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Bauhaus 100 Even though Bauhaus only existed for 14 years, it revolutionised artistic and architectural thinking and work in the 20th century. In 2019, Bauhaus turns 100 years old.

Our writer Wibke Carter finds out more.

Star Interview: Sarah Alles Best known for her roles in Heiter bis Tödlich: Akte Ex, Beck is Back! or Das Traumschiff, German actress Sarah Alles speaks to Discover Germany about her time in London, her latest projects and much more.

Escape the Winter Blues with Something a Little Different…

The cold season is in full flow, so why not try something completely new and dive into a (warmer) world of imagination?

Escape Rooms are the place to be this winter! Writer Marilena Stracke explores this popular trend for Discover Germany.

Hotel of the Month Munich’s boutique hotel H’Otello B’01 is a real design gem. Aside from its incredible location in the trendy lifestyle area of Glockenbach, it also offers guests an array of premium services.

What Winter Sportspeople Want Within the scope of the study ‘Best Ski Resort’, around 46,000 winter sportspeople were asked about their holiday destination preferences and satisfaction levels

Issue 70 | January 2019 | 3

Dear Reader, 2019 is here! And with it, our new January issue, which is all about inspiring ideas for the new year.

Discover Germany Issue 70, January 2019 Published 01.2019 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

Barbara Geier Cornelia Brelowski Gregor Kleinknecht Jessica Holzhausen Silke Henkele Wibke Carter Cover Photo © Benedikt Schnermann 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

Graphic Designers Audrey Beullier Mercedes Moulia

Phone: +44 (0)870 933 0423 Fax: +44 (0)870 933 0421

Email: info@discovergermany.com

Contributors Adam Jacot de Boinod

For further information please visit www.discovergermany.com

We start off the year with some tips on how to escape the much-dreaded winter blues.

For example, our writer Marilena Stracke tried out a trendy new entertainment concept for us – Escape Rooms – to find out what the craze is all about. Furthermore, we take a look at some of the DACH region’s top winter holiday destinations and ski areas in the Alpine region so you don’t need to do all the research for your next skiing trip. Or if you prefer city breaks, we have prepared a special theme on the beautiful city of Zurich. While impressing with a medieval old town with plenty of sights, charming streets and shops, the Swiss city is also a mustvisit for art and culture fans, as well as nature enthusiasts.

As well as all of this, if you’re into design, 2019 is your year! After all, this year, the Staatliches Bauhaus, commonly known simply as Bauhaus, turns 100 years old. The German art school operational combined crafts and fine arts and became famous for its special approach to design. Our writer Wibke Carter wanted to find out more about the movement and how it is still omnipresent today, and prepared a wonderful feature for this issue. On top of that, if you want to give your home a Bauhaus overhaul to honour the anniversary, we found some great Bauhaus-inspired design items.

Other topics covered in our latest magazine are cultural highlights, successful start-up companies, smart home trends of 2019 and experts for endocrinology and reproductive medicine, amongst other topics. And, on top of all these exciting reads, we feature interviews with actress Sarah Alles and singer and songwriter Johannes Strate, who is the frontman of Revolverheld. He talks to us about their new album Zimmer mit Blick (Room With a View), the challenges of long-distance relationships and how important it is to recognise the political climate that surrounds us today.

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 skiing season is in full swing! And for many, this means fun on the pistes, cosy evenings next to the fireplace, drinks at the chalet and crazy apres-ski parties. To look your best during any of these occasions, you should take a look at these warm, yet stylish outfits. We have handpicked some gorgeous items from the DACH region’s designers to get you inspired.

EDITOR’S PICKS I PRESS IMAGES

The long-standing German brand Bogner has been known for high-quality ski fashion since its conception. This outfit will not only keep you warm, but will also make you stand out in any ski resort this season. Cashmere pullover £720, ski gloves £160, snow boots £899. www.bogner.com

With dimensions of 50 x 29 x 22 centimetres, this pretty bag by JOOP! is the perfect weekend bag for your next skiing trip. £221. www.joop.com

If you need a warm, yet stylish pair of shoes for dinner or partying after an eventful day on the pistes, we suggest taking a look at these gorgeous boots from Marco Tozzi. £62. www.marcotozzi.co.uk

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Discover Germany | Design | Fashion Finds

This outfit – also by Bogner – demonstrates how to stylishly approach the skiing season this year. Ski gloves £160, ski helmet £315, snow boots £349, ski goggles £215, parka £2,700, trousers £270. www.bogner.com

Add this beanie to your skiing resort outfit for a fun touch of colour – and some extra warmth! £38. www.surifrey.com

Do not forget to bring a warm, cosy jumper to your skiing trip – like this beautiful one from German brand ORSAY, with fake-fur details. £23. www.orsay.com

Issue 70 | January 2019 | 7

Discover Germany | Design | Haute Couture from St. Gallen

Shop in Zurich.

TEXT: NANE STEINHOFF I PHOTOS: JAKOB SCHLAEPFER AG

Textile visions for fashion and architecture Jakob Schlaepfer has enriched the world with its traditionally Swiss fabrics for over 100 years. The unique combination of careful handicraft and industrial manufacturing results in luxurious fashion and interior fabrics, as well as accessories that excite with their exclusivity, innovation and beauty.

As a former embroidery business, Jakob Schlaepfer has continuously embraced technological developments and experimental workings – through this, fabric processing possibilities became more comprehensive. Through the smart idea of also using textiles for interiors to create exceptional accents for living spaces, the company’s accessory collection rounds off the company’s offerings.

Today, Jakob Schlaepfer’s diverse, distinctive creations stand globally for creativity, phenomenal quality, high-quality workmanship, exceptional production processes and innovate textile design.

While the fabrics get designed and realised in Switzerland’s St. Gallen, the company puts special emphasis on in-house production and a close cooperation with local partner companies.

Textile Visionen für Mode und Architektur

Seit über 100 Jahren bereichert Jakob Schlaepfer die Welt mit Stoffen nach schweizerischer Tradition. Die einzigartige Kombination aus sorgfältiger Handarbeit und industrieller Fertigung führt zu luxuriösen Mode- und Interiorstoffen, sowie Accessoires, die international mit Exklusivität, Innovation und Schönheit begeistern.

Ursprünglich ein Stickereiunternehmen, hat Jakob Schlaepfer kontinuierlich technologische Entwicklungen und experimentelles Arbeiten für sich adaptiert – dadurch wurden die Möglichkeiten der Stoffbearbeitung umfassender.

Mit der Vielfalt die Textilien auch im Interior einzusetzen, um so aussergewöhnliche Momente im Wohnbereich zu schaffen, rundet die AccessoireKollektion das Angebot ab.

Heute stehen die vielfältigen, unverkennbaren Kreationen des Unternehmens weltweit für Kreativität, überragende Qualität, hochwertige Verarbeitung, außergewöhnliche Produktionsverfahren und innovatives Textildesign.

Während die Stoffe in St. Gallen, in der Schweiz erdacht, erprobt und realisiert werden, legt Jakob Schlaepfer großen Wert auf hausinterne Produktion und eine enge Zusammenarbeit mit ortsansässigen Partnerfirmen.

Da Jakob Schlaepfer nicht einem einzigen Stil verpflichtet ist, charakterisiert As Jakob Schlaepfer is not committed to one single style, the com- es sich durch die Verbindung der lokalen Kultur und Textiltradition mit zupany characterises itself through combining local culture with kunftsweisendem Design. So entsteht eine spannende Vielseitigkeit, die viele textile tradition and future-orientated design. This creates an ex- Märkte und Kunden anspricht. Kein Wunder also, dass Jakob Schlaepfer seit citing versatility that attracts many markets and clients. Therefore, langem Inspiration für große Couturiers, Architekten und Stoffliebhaber auf it seems no wonder that Jakob Schlaepfer has been inspiring well- der ganzen Welt ist! known couturiers, architects and textile enthusiasts all over the world for a long time.

Die spannenden Kreationen, die auf den Laufstegen der Jakob Schlaepfer Shop Obere Zäune 6 Weltmetropolen zu sehen sind, sind exklusiv im Shop in 8001 Zurich Zürich erhältlich.

The extraordinary creations that can be seen on +41 44 251 24 06 the catwalks of global metropolises are exclushop.zh@jakobschlaepfer.com sively available in the shop in Zurich. www.jakobschlaepfer.com 8 | Issue 70 | January 2019

Discover Germany | Design | Eucerin

Links: Eucerin Oil Control Face Sun Gel-Creme 50+.

Foto: © Eucerin Links-Mitte: Eucerin Sensitive Protect Sun Spray Transparent LSF 50. Foto: © Eucerin

Ultraleichter Sonnenschutz für unterwegs - auch für Männer mit Bart Auf Reisen sollte ein Sonnenschutz nie im Handgepäck fehlen. Oft ist es aber gerade für Männer, und vor allem Bartträger, schwierig die richtige Sonnenpflege zu finden. Eucerin bietet eine wunderbare Palette an sanften Sonnenschutzprodukten – perfekt auf den jeweiligen Hauttyp abgestimmt, auch für Männer.

TEXT: MARILENA STRACKE | FOTOS: @JONAS_SOFLY

Eucerin hat eine ganze Reihe an Sonnenschutzprodukten im Sortiment. Je nach Reise gibt es hier den idealen Schutz: In den Bergen greift man am besten zum wasserfesten Fluid 50+, während sich bei einem Trip in die Karibik, die Tropen, oder auch in die Wüste, Oil Control 50+ empfiehlt. Durch die Eucerin Advanced Spectral Technology ist der Schutz bei UVA/UVBStrahlen besonders hoch und bietet außerdem einen Schutzeffekt bei hochenergetischem sichtbarem Licht (kurz HEV-Licht).

und regeneriert dank der Glycyrrhetinsäure auch noch die hauteigene DNA. Sie wird einfach direkt über den Bart aufgetragen – egal, ob auf dem Snow- oder Surfboard, oder aber auch im Cockpit.

Für Männer mit Bart ist die unparfümierte Oil Control Face Sun Gel-Creme 50+ wegen ihrer ultraleichten Konsistenz die wunderbare Antwort auf eine oft lange Suche nach idealem Sonnenschutz. Die Gel-Creme ist nicht fettend, weißelt nicht

„Mein Favorit zum Schutz meiner Gesichtshaut an Bord – aber auch in meiner Freizeit – ist Eucerin Sun Oil Control Face Gel-Creme LSF 50+“, sagt Pilot Jonas (Instagram: @jonas_sofly), der nicht nur den anspruchsvollen Extrembedingun-

Gerade die Luft- und Druckverhältnisse über den Wolken sind eine echte Herausforderung für die Haut, zum einen wegen der Sonnenverhältnisse und zum anderen aufgrund der trockenen Luftverhältnisse im Flugzeug.

gen im Cockpit ausgesetzt ist, sondern auch privat sehr aktiv ist. „Meine Haut ist sensibel, ich nutze gerne ultraleichte Texturen und es muss schnell gehen.

Die Sun Oil Control Gel-Creme ist genau für diesen Hauttyp gemacht. Sie hat zusätzliche einen Anti-Glanz Effekt und zieht schnell ein. Die Größe ist auch perfekt für das Handgepäck.“ Eucerin überzeugt grundsätzlich durch die leichten Texturen, wie zum Beispiel auch beim Sonnenspray Sensitive Protect Sun Spray Transparent LSF 50. Die leichte wasserfeste Textur sorgt dafür, dass es nicht klebrig oder schwer auf der Haut liegt. Das Spray kann zudem schnell und einfach auftragen werden, und ist besonders hilfreich bei schwer zugänglichen Hautpartien. Besonders beliebt bei Männern und Sportlern.

So lässt Eucerin empfindlich Haut auch bei Sonne aufatmen. www.eucerin.de Issue 70 | January 2019 | 9

Discover Germany | Design | Dedicated to Design

Dedicated to Design…

In 1919, an art school was formed in Germany. One that would go on to have a profound influence on art and interior design: The Bauhaus. Characterised by circular shapes, angular frames and abstract blocks of primary colours, this style is now seeing a resurgence in time for its 100-year anniversary, which will be celebrated in 2019. We also celebrate this influential movement by showing you some stylish Bauhaus-inspired design items.

BY: NANE STEINHOFF I PRESS IMAGES

1. These stylish cabinets were designed in 1975 and simply scream ‘Bauhaus’. They were designed as an homage to the iconic Mondrian Cabinets and inspired by the graphic masterpieces of Piet Mondrian. £POA. www.chaplins.co.uk

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2. Thanks to its extraordinary design, this cradle is an eyecatcher of the very special kind. The designer Peter Keler created this chic ‘Tecta’ Bauhaus cradle in 1922. £1,636. www.einrichten-design.de 3. Sporting characteristic design features of the Bauhaus movement, this coffee maker, made out of aluminium, is not only ultra-stylish but hard wearing too. £25. www.creative-tops.com 4. With a bold graphic design, this handmade rug combines beauty and elegance with a unique design language. £POA. www.covethouse.eu 5. Designed by Marcel Breuer, this D4 Bauhaus folding chair is an original Bauhaus model and is sure to enhance any home interior. £849. www.einrichten-design.de

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Discover Germany | Design | Swiss Children’s Universe

Industriestrasse 1, 6034 Inwil, Switzerland

TEXT: JESSICA HOLZHAUSEN I PHOTOS: BOARD GAME BOX

Swiss board games:

Board game box:

A flagship shop which is a treasure trove for games enthusiasts

Schweizer Spiele-FlagshipStore ist eine Schatzkammer für Spielebegeisterte

The Swiss publisher Board Game Box is renowned for releasing not only hugely popular international board games under exclusive German license, but also their own creative game developments too. As well as being able to explore and test the wide range of games at the many international games fairs that Board Game Box attend, players can also visit their flagship shop in Inwil, Switzerland.

Der Schweizer Spieleverlag Board Game Box veröffentlicht herausragende Spiele internationaler Verlage in deutscher Lizenz, ebenso wie Eigenentwicklungen. Das breite Angebot können Spieler nicht nur auf internationalen Spielemessen, sondern auch im Flagship-Store im Schweizerischen Inwil entdecken und testen.

Customers of Board Game Box’ flagship shop are enthusiastic: “It is great how Board Game Box caters to me as a customer. I have never experienced customer service as attentive or as friendly, ever before!” a reviewer writes on Google. Another refers to the great variety of games: “A huge assortment, a beautiful shop and the most important bit: top advice full of enthusiasm and competence.”

Die Kunden des Board Game Box Flagship Stores zeigen sich begeistert: „Es ist großartig wie Board Game Box auf mich als Kunden eingeht. Einen so zuvorkommenden und freundlichen Kundenservice habe ich noch nie erlebt!“ schreibt ein Rezensent auf Google. Ein anderer verweist auf die große Auswahl: „Riesiges Sortiment, schöner Laden und das Wichtigste: Top Beratung mit Begeisterung und Kompetenz.“

Many Board Game Box games are family-friendly. Founders Michael and Swetlana Zimmerli are especially proud of Dragons, a licensed game originally developed by the well-known author Bruno Faidutto. Here, a clear head and concentration are key to success.

Games allow the discovery of new worlds – or you can build these worlds yourself, like the theme park in Trool Park. Games also make it possible to travel into the future, as is the case with the dystopian game Room 25, or the past: in Magnificent Flying Machines players become pilots, who, set in the early 20th century, race each other with daring flying machines. Dice Town, on the other hand, is set in the Wild West, and this dice game in particular thrilled many players at recent games fairs in both Germany and Switzerland.

Viele Board Game Box Spiele sind familienfreundlich. Das Lizenzspiel Dragons beispielsweise stammt vom bekannten Spieleentwickler Bruno Faidutti und ist der ganze Stolz der Board Game Box Gründer Michael und Swetlana Zimmerli. Ein klarer Kopf und Konzentration sind der Schlüssel zum Erfolg.

Spiele erlauben es, neue Welten zu entdecken – oder wie bei Trool Park in Form eines Vergnügungsparks selbst zu bauen. Sie ermöglichen es in die Zukunft zu reisen, wie beim dystopischen Spiel Room 25, oder in die Vergangenheit: Bei Magnificent Flying Machines schlüpfen die Spieler in die Rolle von Piloten, die sich zu Beginn des 20. Jahrhunderts ein Rennen mit abenteuerlichen Flugmaschinen liefern. Dice Town hingegen entführt in den Wilden Westen. Das Würfelspiel begeisterte jüngst Besucher auf den Spielemessen in Deutschland und der Schweiz. www.boardgamebox.life Issue 70 | January 2019 | 11

Discover Germany | Design | STEKO Spielhaus

‘Oven’ construction kit.

‘House’ construction kit.

TEXT: MARILENA STRACKE I PHOTOS: STEKO SPIELHAUS

Constructing, assembling and creating:

Bauen, tüfteln und gestalten:

Welcome to a colourful world Willkommen in einer bunten Welt of imagination and creativity der Fantasie und Kreativität STEKO Spielhaus produces wonderful wooden toy systems for children. The so-called ‘construction sites in motion’ are freely expandable and changeable – they encourage kids to be creative and use their imagination. Particularly amongst public institutions, the TÜV-certified connect-systems are incredibly popular.

STEKO Spielhaus stellt wunderbare Holzspielzeug-Systeme für Kinder her. Die Bewegungsbaustellen sind beliebig erweiterund veränderbar, und fördern so die Kreativität und Fantasie der jungen Spieler. Gerade bei öffentlichen Einrichtungen sind die TÜV-geprüften Steck-Systeme unglaublich beliebt.

Everything started when carpenter Thomas Seidel wanted to develop a playhouse, which kids can assemble themselves and continuously change freely. He founded STEKO – which is an abbreviation for the German words for ‘plug in’ and ‘combine’ – and since then, the colourful wooden connect systems are firmly established in the world of activities for kids.

Alles begann, als Tischler Thomas Seidel ein Spielhaus für Kinder entwickeln wollte, dass die Kids selbst bauen und ständig individuell verändern können. Er gründete STEKO – eine Abkürzung für Stecken und Kombinieren – und seitdem sind die bunten Holzsteck-Systeme aus der Kinderwelt nicht mehr wegzudenken.

“STEKO connects,” explains Seidel. “It connects one building component with another, but it also connects the kids while they construct together. Wood is a natural material and its haptic perception appeals to children straight away and leads them to their own creativity.”

For public institutions, the robust yet lightweight construction kit, which comes in different sizes, is ideal – also because you can use it inside as well as outside. Outdoor oil as wood protection and the waterproof glued three-layered wood make the toys, which are entirely manufactured in Germany, extremely long-lasting.

The current bestsellers are the building kits ‘Oven’ and ‘House’.

Older kids can come up with more complicated constructions while the youngsters can build simpler ones with the same components.

“To build something for yourself, where you can retreat or hide, and which offers protection – that is one of the primary drives during kids’ play and a basic human need,” Seidel concludes with a smile.

„STEKO verbindet“, erklärt Seidel. „Sowohl Bauteil mit Bauteil als auch Kinder beim gemeinsamen Bauen. Holz als Naturmaterial spricht in seiner haptischen Wahrnehmung Kinder sofort an und führt sie zu eigener Kreativität.“ Für öffentliche Einrichtungen sind die robusten und dennoch leichten Bausätze in verschiedensten Größenordnungen ideal, auch weil sie sowohl drinnen als auch draußen problemlos einsetzbar sind. Outdooröl als Holzschutz und wasserfest verleimtes Dreischichtholz macht das komplett in Deutschland hergestellte Spielzeug extrem langlebig.

Die aktuellen Bestseller sind die Bausätze Herd und Haus. Ältere Kinder können sich kompliziertere Konstruktionen ausdenken, während die Jüngeren mit den gleichen Bausteinen einfachere Zusammenhänge gestalten können. „Sich selbst etwas bauen, wo ich mich zurückziehen oder verstecken kann und was mir Schutz bietet, gehört zu den Urtrieben des kindlichen Spielens und Urbedürfnissen des Menschen“, fügt Seidel lächelnd hinzu. www.steko-spielhaus.de

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Discover Germany | Design Feature | Bauhaus 100

Bauhaus Dessau. Photo: © Moonglow

Bauhaus 100 Even though the Staatliches Bauhaus, commonly known simply as Bauhaus, only existed for 14 years, it revolutionised artistic and architectural thinking and work in the 20th century. In 2019, Bauhaus turns 100 years old.

taught Bauhaus’s famous required course on the fundamentals of colour, form and material.

TEXT: WIBKE CARTER

The Bauhaus Museum (moving into a new building in spring 2019) has a collection of some 11,000 Bauhaus objects, including the world’s oldest collection, authorised

by Gropius. Thuringia’s Hauptstaatsarchiv holds documents and materials relevant to the early years while Haus am Horn, which in 1923 was built as a showcase home, is the very first building constructed based on Bauhaus designs. The main building of the

Weimar The foundation stone for the Bauhaus was already laid in 1902 by Henry van de Velde, when he established the Kunstgewerbliches Seminar (College of Applied Arts). But it was not until 1919 that German architect Walter Gropius merged the Grand Ducal School of Arts and Crafts and the Weimar Academy of Fine Art into the Staatliches Bauhaus. The new school combined the fine arts, crafts and design into one institution with the aim of creating a Gesamtkunstwerk, or total work of art.

The Bauhaus was more than just a place to teach and learn. It was a lifestyle, the beginning of the art school as an alternative way of life. “It was a commune, a spiritual 14 | Issue 70 | January 2019

movement, a radical approach to art in all its forms, a philosophical centre”, journalist Tom Wolfe wrote in his book From Bauhaus to Our House. Students, half of them women, lived together, worked together and held legendary parties, masked balls, kite processions and experimental light and music evenings.

The teaching staff was of the highest calibre. The initial faculty, consisting of Johannes Itten, Lyonel Feininger, Gerhard Marcks and Gropius, were joined by Oskar Schlemmer, Paul Klee and Wassily Kandinsky within three years of opening.

Eccentric Swiss painter Itten shaped the school’s early Expressionist direction and

Bauhaus-Album, desk.

Photo: © Klassik Stiftung Weimar

Discover Germany | Design Feature | Bauhaus 100

Bauhaus University and the former School of Arts and Crafts, both designed by the Belgian Van de Velde, are pure Bauhaus too.

Dessau In 1925, due to increasing political pressure in Weimar, Bauhaus relocated to the industrial city of Dessau, where Gropius fulfilled his vision of a purpose-designed building that combined workshops, lecture rooms, theatre, refectory and student accommodation. The Bauhaus building, erected through 1925 and 1926, with its simple cubic forms and shimmering glass surfaces, became an icon of modernism, a place where art and technology were to merge into a new unity.

After Gropius resigned in 1928, his successor Hannes Meyer, a radical functionalist, changed direction for the school, but his Communist affiliations forced him out of office in 1930. His replacement, Ludwig Mies van der Rohe, transformed Bauhaus in its later years into a fully developed school of architecture.

The Bauhaus Dessau Foundation runs guided tours that explore the Bauhaus Building, including the historical canteen with the Marcel Breuer-designed stools, the nearby Masters’ Houses and the Törten Estate, a workers’ housing project on the edge of town. The climax of the centenary programme will be the opening of the new Bauhaus Museum Dessau in September 2019.

Berlin When the Nazis took control of the Dessau City Council, the Bauhaus was forced to move yet again. In 1932, Mies set up the school in a derelict telephone factory in Berlin, financing it with his own money. The school operated for another ten months without further interference but on 11 April 1933, police raided the premises and students were shoved into trucks.

The faculty staff agreed to voluntarily shut down the school. After Bauhaus’s closure, the Nazis continued to persecute its former members, accusing them of ‘un-German’ ideas and ‘cultural Bolshevism’.

Though the Bauhaus existed in Berlin for less than a year, there are plenty of remnants — from the Bauhaus-Archiv, one of Gropius’s last designs, to the Museum Berggruen’s collection of around 60 Paul Klee paintings and the Kandinskys of the Mies-designed Neue Nationalgalerie, which is expected to reopen for the centenary. Berlin’s most substantial Bauhaus building is the ADGB Trade Union School in the suburb of Bernau, a zigzagging functionalist complex of brick, steel and glass surrounded by pine forests.

Germany might be the birthplace of Bauhaus but its influence can still be felt worldwide from the buildings of Tel Aviv’s White City to the teachings of the Shillito Design School in Sydney, whose founder Phyllis Shillito firmly believed that “A student who has mastered the basic principles of design, can design anything from a dress to a kitchen stove”.

www.bauhaus100.de

Top left: Bauhaus-Archiv Berlin. Photo: © VG Bild-Kunst. Top middle: bauhaus100 logo. Photo: © Klassikstiftung Weimar. Top right: Woman in club chair B3 designed by Marcel Breuer, Mask from Oskar Schlemmer, dress from Lis Beyer, 1927. Photo: © Klassik Stiftung Weimar. Bottom left: Staircase Bauhaus Dessau. Photo: © Klassik Stiftung Weimar. Bottom right: Bauhaus Museum Weimar Lounge. Photo: © Klassik Stiftung Weimar

Issue 70 | January 2019 | 15

Discover Germany | Cover Feature | Johannes Strate

16 | Issue 70 | January 2019

Discover Germany | Cover Feature | Johannes Strate

Johannes Strate

Authentic stories, new sounds and a great passion for our planet Revolverheld became a German household name almost straight away when they released their debut album over a decade ago. A lot has happened for the band since then, including the legendary MTV Unplugged tour. Frontman Johannes Strate talks about the new album Zimmer mit Blick (Room With a View), the challenges of long-distance relationships and how important it is to recognise the political climate that surrounds us today.

TEXT: MARILENA STRACKE I PHOTOS: BENEDIKT SCHNERMANN

After the huge success of their MTV Unplugged tour, Johannes Strate, Kristoffer Hünecke, Niels Kristian Hansen and Jakob Sinn of Revolverheld were ready to take some time off. The plan was to rest for a year, focus on other things and come back with restored energy. So far, so good. However, in the end, frontman Johannes Strate managed to relax and stay away from music for only four weeks before passion took over again.

“It was strange because I generally also play a lot of guitar in my free time, but then I kept thinking ‘Oh no – I’m supposed to be on a break’. And I realised how silly that was – I didn’t want to have a break from music,” Johannes Strate remembers. “It was nice to take time off from performing on stage, but writing songs was something I just had to continue doing.”

Johannes met up with his bandmate and fellow songwriter Kris, and it turned out he was going through the exact same process. They went to Amsterdam together and played each other 25 full new songs.

That was the beginning of the new album Zimmer mit Blick, which was released in 2018. It is the band’s fifth studio album and shows just how worthwhile it was to get creative again.

New sounds, same spirit So much had happened since the group last recorded in a studio, and the experience with the somewhat strict requirements of MTV Unplugged also nurtured a longing for breaking free from any musical boundaries. Tuning into the new songs, one can immediately feel that there is an ever so slightly different vibe to this album.

“Both Kris and I separately incorporated a lot more electronic stuff,” Johannes explains. “Starting with spherical guitars and beats, we both wanted to get away from the acoustic sound. As a result, the album features electronic sounds like never before.”

Truthful stories from the heart Although the sound might have slightly changed, what always remains is the authenticity, the personal stories of the songs.

The single Liebe auf Distanz (Love at a Distance), for example, examines the challenges of long-distance relationships and stems from Johannes’ own experiences.

“My relationship was between Hamburg and Cologne – which is nothing too dramatic I suppose, but a four-hour train ride is annoying. You cannot just come around in the evening to relax together,”the singer explains. “You have to solve big problems over the phone, which is incredibly draining. It really tests the whole relationship over and over again.” That was over ten years ago, but Johannes recalls exactly what it felt like back then and has captured that feeling in this beautiful song.

His advice for anyone in a long-distance relationship is not to create too much pressure – “a true challenge”, he admits.

“I also think it is good to keep your own expectations in check for the time that you actually do see each other. Thinking that you have 24 hours together and that therefore everything has to be amazing… well, you might argue during those 24 hours and that is normal and okay,” he says.“But I do think that if you managed to have a successful long-distance relationship for a few years, chances are, you are a very good match in general.”

It is time to wake up Another song that truly sticks in one’s head is the title track Zimmer mit Blick Issue 70 | January 2019 | 17

Discover Germany | Cover Feature | Johannes Strate

Whilst being passionate about these important issues, the band never becomes preachy. They feel it is their responsibility as artists to use their voices and their place in the public eye to portray and reflect the current situation – and most importantly, to ask questions. Their songs make the listener think deeply.

Authenticity all the way Expressing their feelings and thoughts is a key ingredient for the two songwriters Kris and Johannes, and the sound carries it through. Revolverheld has been hugely successful for over a decade now, and evidently there is a lot more to come from and for them. Following the credo ‘can’t stop, won’t stop’, Revolverheld is back on stage in March celebrating their new album during their Zimmer mit Blick arena tour.

Revolverheld: Kristoffer Hünecke, Johannes Strate, Jakob Sinn and Niels Kristian Hansen (from left to right).

itself. With its socially critical lyrics, the song raises important questions about the complex world we live in and, in particular, about our own attitude towards it.

Revolverheld makes it very clear that now is not the time to turn away and stay in our own comfortable bubbles.

“Five years ago, I became a father and although it might sound clichéd, your perspective shifts – of course, not just when you have a kid, but also when you are getting older. You see the world differently when you are in your late 30s than you did when you were in your 20s,” Johannes describes. “So many extreme things are happening at the moment. For example, I don’t think anyone can seriously argue about climate change anymore.”

He continues: “The consequences of a variety of issues are starting to show. Take political mismanagement or the populist frenzy which seems to be appearing across the globe at the moment.. And in times of the internet, you simply cannot say anymore that you didn’t know – yet there are 18 | Issue 70 | January 2019

still so many people who actively look away. Who feel overwhelmed and therefore close their eyes to what is happening all around them.”

Raising awareness Recently, the crew of Revolverheld became WWF ambassadors to help raise awareness for the damage that plastic causes to our planet, and particularly to our oceans.

“It is such a huge subject and I am happy that it is covered more and more in the media, especially during the last two years,” Johannes says.

“And regarding the consequences, it is the same again: you cannot say you didn’t see the plastic cup floating past you during a holiday. It is right there. And that’s also true for the manufacturers. You cannot produce 50 million plastic bottles each year, of which 30 million end up in the ocean, and then say ‘it’s none of my business’.” He points out: “Germany is actually quite the pioneer regarding this as manufacturers have to pay a fee for every plastic bottle they produce.”

“A good live show for me means that you can give it a somewhat personal touch,” Johannes explains.“It doesn’t matter if you are in a small or a large place – I am generally not a big fan of gigs that are completely rehearsed from start to finish. Instead, I like shows to be a little more spontaneous.

Telling the audience about things that are relevant to me on that particular day is important and nurtures that personal bond.”

He laughs and adds: “We are known for talking a lot on stage – we just don’t shut up.” Lucky for us! www.revolverheld.de Zimmer mit Blick arena tour 2019: 14.03. Emden, Nordseehalle 15.03. Hannover, TUI Arena 16.03. Hamburg, Barclaycard Arena 18.03. Bremen, ÖVB-Arena 19.03. Leipzig, Arena 20.03. Frankfurt, Festhalle 22.03. Stuttgart, Schleyerhalle 23.03. Nürnberg, Arena Nürnberger Versicherung 24.03. München, Olympiahalle 25.03. A-Wien, Stadthalle 27.03. Köln, Lanxess Arena 29.03. Oberhausen, König-Pilsener- Arena 30.03. Berlin, Mercedes Benz Arena

Issue 70 | January 2019 | 19

Discover Germany | Wine & Dine | Hannibal Gin

Photo: © Marcel Schwarz

Maximilian Freitag.

TEXT: MARILENA STRACKE | PHOTOS: STEFAN HOLTZEM

“Let’s make a gin!”

„Wir müssen einen Gin machen!“

Maximilian Freitag realised this very spontaneous idea his father had under the Christmas tree and today, four years later, his Hannibal Gin has become a true insider tip.

Maximilian Freitag folgte diesem spontanen Ausruf seines Vaters unterm Weihnachtsbaum und heute, vier Jahre später, ist sein Hannibal Gin ein echter Geheimtipp.

Maximilian Freitag never intended to produce gin: but, sometimes we do not find our calling – our calling finds us. In 2014, his father, distiller Herbert ‘Hannibal’ Freitag, had the idea to produce a homemade gin. Sadly, however, he died unexpectedly before this plan was put into action.

Maximilian Freitag hatte nie vor Gin herzustellen, aber manchmal finden nicht wir unsere Berufung, sondern die Berufung findet uns. Sein Vater und Brenner Herbert ‚Hannibal‘ Freitag hatte 2014 die Idee einen hauseigenen Gin herzustellen. Bevor es aber dazu kam, verstarb der Gin-Enthusiast ganz unerwartet.

After Maximilian decided to take over his father’s distillery in 2015, he knew that he wanted to realise his dad’s great idea.

“Gin is an incredible product,” says Maximilian, who soon turned into a gin-lover himself. “You can choose any flavour.

From herbal to flowery and citrus-based, there are so many possibilities!”

Nachdem Maximilian 2015 entschieden hatte die väterliche Brennerei weiter zu führen, war klar, dass er die Idee seines Vaters realisieren wollte. „Gin ist ein Wahnsinns-Produkt“, sagt Maximilian, der selbst zum Gin-Lover geworden ist. „Es stehen einem alle Geschmacksrichtungen offen. Von Kräuterbetont, über blumig zu zitrushaltig hat man so viele Möglichkeiten!“

Hannibal Gin has a Mediterranean touch and is made from 18 botanicals including rosemary, cinnamon, cloves, jasmine, lemon zest and cumin. The fruity version, Hannibal Gin Raspberry, is a perfect aperitif with a light tonic. For those who like it stronger, Hannibal Juniper, with 49 per cent alcohol, is the best choice. “We adjusted the juniper berry amount so that you can still taste the round flavour despite the high juniper quantity,” Maximilian adds.

Handmade premium gins made of natural ingredients and with a great deal of passion – that is what Hannibal Gin proudly stands for.

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Der so entstandene Hannibal Gin ist ein mediterran angehauchter Gin mit insgesamt 18 Botanicals, u.a. Rosmarin, Zimt, Nelke, Jasminblüte, Zitronenzeste und Kreuzkümmel. Die Himbeervariante Hannibal Gin Raspberry, lässt sich mit einem leichten Tonic wunderbar als Aperitif genießen. Wenn man es etwas stärker mag, greift man zum Hannibal Juniper mit einem Alkoholgehalt von 49 Prozent vol. „Hier haben wir den Wacholderanteil so angepasst, dass man trotz des hohen Wacholderanteils noch einen runden Geschmack am Gaumen spüren kann“, sagt Maximilian.

Handgemachte Premium-Gins aus natürlichen Rohstoffen und mit einer großen Portion echter Leidenschaft – dafür steht Hannibal Gin. www.hannibal-spirits.com

#selfie

www.stauffenberg-gin.de

22 | Issue 70 | January 2019

Discover Germany | Star Interview | Sarah Alles

Sarah Alles

Trust the unknown Best known for her roles in Heiter bis Tödlich: Akte Ex, Beck is Back! or Das Traumschiff, German actress Sarah Alles speaks to Discover Germany about her time in London, her latest projects, her love for martial arts and much more.

will spend some more time there in the near future.

S. Alles: My meditation is martial arts.

The quickest way to clear my head is to pack the boxing gloves and head to the Chimosa Studio in Berlin-Mitte! Furthermore, I travel far away once a year – hiking in New Zealand, Burning Man in the USA or backpacking in Mexico. Every time, a new Sarah comes back.

Today, you live in Berlin. Why is the city your chosen home?

What can we look forward to from you in 2019?

S. Alles: I was born in Berlin and grew up there. Berlin has everything I need for life – my family, my friends and Berlin is becoming more and more popular as an international film location. Berlin is colourful and honest. Berlin is also green. The city is both home and a city that I would travel to. If I can find all that somewhere else, I might think about moving, but until then, I will stay here.

S. Alles: I’ve finished some shootings which will be shown next year: Beck is Back!, Der Bulle und das Biest, In aller Freundschaft and the American movie Civil Twilight. And another exciting project is planned for 2019 so cross your fingers! If I find time, I would also like to venture on my first own film.

TEXT: NANE STEINHOFF I PHOTO: THIMON VON BERLEPSCH

Why is acting your dream profession?

S. Alles: As a child, princess was one my dream jobs! (she laughs) Later on, I was interested in psychology and the processes of the brain, but now I know that nothing can fulfil me as much as acting. I can discover places and mindsets which I normally wouldn’t. That’s a gift. Additionally, I get to meet so many very special people of great talent on the way.

You have played at London’s Arcola Theatre in Moormaid. How does the British theatre scene differ from the German one? How did the time in London coin you as an actress?

S. Alles: I’ve got the feeling that people in London go to the theatre more regularly. As the theatres aren’t nationally subsidised, they really try to keep their programmes interesting for the audience.

Playing in London – and getting the leading role – has been one of the most exciting adventures of my acting career so far.

The rehearsals were really challenging for me, but we had a wonderful premiere and got great critiques. I learned and laughed a lot, made new friends and had a very special time. And one of my mantras has proven to be true yet again: magic happens outside the comfort zone.

What was your favourite thing about London?

S. Alles: The incredible theatre landscape!

The city vibrates. The art scene continues to pump new works into the city’s veins.

It has to, as the living expenses are high.

Unfortunately, I wasn’t able to look at too many things – only during the rehearsal period, as I played every evening after that. But I have the feeling that I

Das Traumschiff, Heiter bis Tödlich: Akte Ex, Beck is Back!, Familie Dr. Kleist – which role has stuck in your mind the most?

S. Alles: Melissa in Moormaid – the role I played in London, written by the wonderful Marion Bott. Melissa is an artist who has lost the love for art, for herself and for the entire life. At the beginning of the play, she can’t bear the pain anymore and decides to hang herself, but then, someone unexpected visits. Playing this role was a wild rollercoaster ride of emotions and I won’t ever forget it. Sometimes, I even stumble across sentences from the play in everyday life. The sentence “Trust the unknown” has even made it onto my arm as a tattoo.

It shall always remind me not to worry too much, keep up the playful spirit and believe in the possibility that dreams come true.

You are also a German dubbing artist for Orange is the New Black, Fargo and Blade Runner 2049, amongst others. How do you relax from all these projects?

Speaking of great projects – you have supported the Deutsches Kinderhilfswerk’s ‘Zu Fuß zur Schule und zum Kindergarten’ (To school and kindergarten on foot) campaign this year. Why is this project so important?

S. Alles: The campaign shows how much fun getting fresh air is and teaches children to protect the climate through walking or taking the bike. I was very lucky as a child as my kindergarten and school were only a short walk away. Walking there was a great start to the day for me.

What other dreams and wishes do you still have?

S. Alles: My heart longs to play in a martial arts series one day, so I can combine two of my greatest passions. In general I’m very grateful for what I’ve experienced so far and wish to always be able to see the little treasures life is giving me and never take them for granted. I’d love to learn how to stay more serene whenever the ocean of life gets wavy. Maybe all I have to do is believe the sentence on my arm: trust the unknown!

Issue 70 | January 2019 | 23

Discover Germany | Culture | Cultural Attraction of the Month

Left: Futuro House. Photo: © Die Neue Sammlung – The Design Museum (A. Laurenzo). Middle: Anni Albers, Wall hanging, Nr. 81, 1925. Bauhaus, Dessau. Photo: Die Neue Sammlung – The Design Museum (A. Laurenzo), © 2018 The Josef and Anni Albers Foundation / VG Bild Kunst Bonn. Right: Entrance area Die Neue Sammlung – The Design Museum. Photo: © Rainer Viertlböck.

C U LTU RAL ATTRA CTI ON OF TH E MO N T H

TEXT: JESSICA HOLZHAUSEN

Munich design museum Münchner Design-Museum begibt follows the trails of Bauhaus sich auf die Spuren des Bauhaus From 8 February 2018 to 2 February 2020, The Design Museum Munich / Die Neue Sammlung celebrates the 100th birthday of Bauhaus reform school with the special exhibition REFLEX BAUHAUS. 40 OBJECTS – 5 CONVERSATIONS. The world’s oldest design museum puts its emphasis on the modern era.

Mit der Sonderausstellung REFLEX BAUHAUS. 40 OBJECTS – 5 CONVERSATIONS feiert Die Neue Sammlung München vom 8. Februar 2018 bis zum 2. Februar 2020 den 100. Geburtstag der Reformschule Bauhaus. Als ältestes Design-Museum der Welt setzt Die Neue Sammlung einen Schwerpunkt auf die Moderne.

“It is our first ever Bauhaus exhibition and some objects are actually shown in Munich for the very first time,” says Dr Xenia Riemann-Tyroller. Die Neue Sammlung in the Pinakothek der Moderne, with its 100,000 objects, houses one of the world’s largest design collections – from ceramics and glass, jewellery and appliances to product, industry and furniture design. Even in its founding year, 1925, the museum was committed to modern design – and as one of very few museums, had already bought Bauhaus objects. With special exhibitions, like the current one about design theorist Friedrich von Borries, the museum broaches the political context of design.

„Es ist unsere erste Bauhausaustellung überhaupt und einige Objekte zeigen wir erstmals in München“, sagt Dr. Xenia Riemann-Tyroller. Die Neue Sammlung in der Pinakothek der Moderne beherbergt mit 100.000 Objekten eine der größten Designsammlungen der Welt – von Keramik und Glas, über Schmuck und Gerät bis hin zu Produkt-, Industrie- oder Möbeldesign. Schon bei der Gründung 1925 hatte sich das Museum der zeitgenössischen Formgestaltung verpflichtet – und als eines von wenigen Museen bereits damals Bauhaus-Stücke erworben. Mit Sonderausstellungen wie aktuell zu Designtheoretiker Friedrich von Borries thematisiert das Museum den politischen Kontext von Design.

The year the museum was founded, the Bauhaus moved from Weimar to Dessau. From this time originate the textiles by Anni Albers and Gunta Stölzl, toys by Alma Buscher and Ludwig Hirschfeld-Mack and metal works by Otto Rittweger and Wilhelm Wagenfeld, all shown in the special exhibition.

Other important works by Marcel Breuer and Naum Slutzky are later editions to the collection. REFLEX BAUHAUS connects 40 historic objects with five contemporary works. The exhibition is a cooperation with artist Tilo Schulz.

Im Gründungsjahr des Museums war das Bauhaus von Weimar nach Dessau umgezogen. Aus dieser Zeit stammen die in der BauhausSonderausstellung gezeigten Textilien von Anni Albers und Gunta Stölzl, Spielzeug von Alma Buscher und Ludwig Hirschfeld-Mack oder Metallarbeiten von Otto Rittweger und Wilhelm Wagenfeld. Weitere bedeutende Arbeiten von Marcel Breuer oder Naum Slutzky kamen später zur Sammlung hinzu. REFLEX BAUHAUS verschränkt 40 historische Objekte mit fünf zeitgenössischen Werken. Die Ausstellung entstand in Zusammenarbeit mit dem Künstler Tilo Schulz. www.die-neue-sammlung.de

24 | Issue 70 | January 2019

Luftbefeuchter und Luftreiniger Der ZirbenLüfter® verteilt die natürlichen und wertvollen Wirkstoffe der Zirbe leicht angefeuchtet und belebend im Raum. Zudem geschieht durch die Verwirbelung der Luft in Verbindung mit dem Wasser eine wirksame Reinigung der Raumluft. www.ZirbenLuefter.com news@zirbenluefter.com +43 (0)6245 87494 1

Art International Zurich. Photo: © Art International Zurich, www.art-zurich.com

S P E C I A L T H E M E : S W I T Z E R L A N D ’ S C U LT U R A L H I G H L I G H T S O F 2 0 1 9

Something for everyone Switzerland is known for its great and diverse cultural offerings. Whether you are on the hunt for modern art, sporting events, history museums or contemporary photography, there is a vast array of cultural highlights to be found in this country. We take a look at some that should not be missed in 2019.

TEXT: NANE STEINHOFF | PHOTOS: PIXABAY

Art International Zurich.

Photo: © Art International Zurich, www.art-zurich.com

26 | Issue 70 | January 2019

Discover Germany | Special Theme | Switzerland’s Cultural Highlights of 2019

Mail Art, Geneva (until 1 March, 2019) Head to Geneva’s Mamco for an exhibition of the special kind. Here, the art museum presents a series of works and documents associated with mail art – a system of postal communication set up by artists as an alternative to institutions and galleries. If you are looking for a somewhat different kind of exhibition, you should definitely not miss this one.

Zurich Marathon (28 April, 2019) The most popular city marathon in Switzerland, this sporting event draws many national, as well as international visitors to the beautiful city of Zurich every April. The route runs along Lake Zurich for the most part, and through downtown Zurich, which makes this marathon a beautiful one, impressing runners and spectators with its unique backdrop. Besides the marathon, a team run (four runners) and a 10-kilometre-long city run will be held.

GROSS – Dinge Deutungen Dimensionen, Basel (1 July – 22 August, 2019) Head to Basel’s Museum of Cultures for a somewhat different exhibition. GROSS –

Dinge Deutungen Dimensionen looks at how large things impress and impose. What fascinates us about size. Is ‘large’ the same size everywhere or do cultural differences exist? The exhibition discusses these questions in a fun and interesting way.

filmmakers from all over the world and get involved in the exchange of ideas between established filmmakers, creative new talent and the public.

Art International Zurich (26 September – 29 September, 2019) For the 21st time, the ‘Kunstmesse Zürich’ will present international contemporary art in 2019. The art fair has established itself as a public sales and trade fair. In a sophisticated ambiance, an international array of artists will have an excellent opportunity to reach Swiss private collectors, as well as corporate clients and institutions. A must for every art enthusiast!

Zurich Film Festival (26 September – 6 October, 2019) An event for culture aficionados everywhere, the Zurich Film Festival offers a platform for the most promising filmmakers around the globe. First held in 2005, the event has firmly established itself on the national and international festival scene within a very short period of time. Here, large audiences can gain an insight into the work of young, emerging

For more ideas, read the following special theme where we take a look at Switzerland’s cultural highlights not to be missed in 2019!

Issue 70 | January 2019 | 27

Discover Germany | Special Theme | Switzerland’s Cultural Highlights of 2019 View of villa from garden.

Claude Monet, Eisgang auf der Seine, 1880/81.

Gallery room with Renoir in background.

Aristide Maillol, La Méditerranée, 1905-07.

Picture gallery.

TEXT: SILKE HENKELE I PHOTOS: SAMMLUNG OSKAR REINHART «AM RÖMERHOLZ»

On the high road of art history

Auf dem Höhenweg der Kunstgeschichte

The Collection Oskar Reinhart «Am Römerholz», in Winterthur, is located at an established address for lovers of art. And there will soon be another reason to visit the atmospheric villa and its exceptional collection of paintings and sculptures.

Für Kunstliebhaber ist die Sammlung Oskar Reinhart «Am Römerholz» Winterthur eine feste Adresse. Bald gibt es einen weiteren Grund, diesem stimmungsvollen Ausstellungshaus mit seinen außergewöhnlichen Exponaten einen Besuch abzustatten.

The premises displaying the Oskar Reinhart Collection are truly stunning. A former residence of the son of a well-known family of Winterthur merchants, the grand house, with its spacious garden and the homely museum café, is the perfect setting for guests to enjoy great art.

Außergewöhnlich ist der Ort, in dem sich die Sammlung dem interessierten Besucher präsentiert. Der ehemalige Wohnsitz des Sohns einer Winterthurer Handelsfamilie lädt mit seiner großzügigen Gartenanlage und einem gemütlichen Museumscafé zum Genuss großer Kunst ein.

“You will hardly find another place where visitors may encounter such a rich choice of high-quality art,” enthuses Kerstin Richter, the director of the collection. As Oskar Reinhart followed his own aesthetic principles in building his collection, visitors may today engage with a broad range of artistic styles. “We display masterpieces of painting as well as sculptures and drawings,” explains Richter. “Amongst them,” she continues, “artworks by illustrious painters such as Cranach, Rembrandt and El Greco, but also by masters of the 20th century, such as Picasso, Rodin or Maillol.”

Coming up soon, visitors to Oskar Reinhart’s collection can look forward to another highlight.“In the upcoming autumn 2019, we are going to open an exhibition of Pieter Bruegel the Elder and his painting Adoration of the Kings in the Snow from 1563 - the first painting in the history of art depicting snowfall,”reveals Richter.

So, what is keeping you from getting inspired by the Collection Oskar Reinhart «Am Römerholz», in the magnificent scenery of a stately Winterthur villa?

„Es gibt weltweit kaum einen Ort, an dem ein Besucher auf eine derartig reiche Auswahl hochqualitativer Kunst treffen kann“, erzählt Kerstin Richter, die Leiterin der Sammlung, begeistert. Oskar Reinhart sammelte nach ästhetischen Gesichtspunkten, und so haben Besucher die Möglichkeit, sich mit verschiedenen Kunststilen auseinanderzusetzen. „Wir zeigen in unseren Räumen Meisterwerke der Malerei, sowie Skulpturen und Zeichnungen“, erklärt Richter. „Darunter“, so fährt sie fort, „befinden sich Werke von illustren Malern wie Cranach, Rembrandt, El Greco, aber auch von Künstlern des 20. Jahrhunderts wie beispielsweise Picasso, Rodin oder Maillol.“ In der nahen Zukunft wartet auf die Besucher der Sammlung Oskar Reinhart ein weiteres Highlight. „Im kommenden Herbst eröffnet unsere Ausstellung zu Pieter Bruegel d.Ä. und dessen Werk Die Anbetung der Könige im Schnee von 1563 – dem ersten Schneefallbild der Kunstgeschichte“, verrät Richter.

Was spricht also dagegen, sich von der Sammlung Oskar Reinhart «Am Römerholz» in der herrlichen Kulisse einer herrschaftlichen Winterthurer Villa inspirieren zu lassen? www.roemerholz.ch

28 | Issue 70 | January 2019

Discover Germany | Special Theme | Switzerland’s Cultural Highlights of 2019

Sektor Süd.

Bunkerkanone.

Eingang Heldsberg.

Entdecken, staunen, verstehen Im schweizerischen St. Margrethen finden Besucher ein sehr gepflegtes Museum der besonderen Art – das Festungsmuseum Heldsberg. Hier wird Geschichte des zweiten Weltkriegs durch spannende Exponate für Jung und Alt erlebbar.

TEXT: NANE STEINHOFF I FOTOS: FESTUNGSMUSEUM HELDSBERG

Das Artilleriewerk Heldsberg wurde 1938 geplant, nachdem das Nachbarland Österreich am 12. März 1938 vom Deutschen Reich annektiert wurde. Um Übersetzversuche über den Bodensee und den Übergang über den Rhein zwischen Bodensee und Montlingen zu verhindern, wurde damals das Artilleriewerk in zwei Jahren gebaut. Heute befindet sich im alten Artilleriewerk das spannende Festungsmuseum Heldsberg, in dem man das Gefühl hat, die Truppe sei nur kurz weg und komme gleich wieder.

Hier freuen sich Besucher nämlich auf überschaubare Rundgänge, top motivierte Mitarbeiter und eine voll und original eingerichtete Artilleriefestung mit tollen Ausstellungen. Zum Beispiel können Besucher sich über diverse Übermittlungsgeräte und Munition aller Art informieren, Instrumente und Hilfsmittel zum Beobachten, Messen, Rechnen, Zielen und Richten

für das Schiessen anschauen oder in der umfassenden Bibliothek mit Militärliteratur und Reglementen vorbeischauen.

Ein Highlight, welches von Gästen immer Bestnoten erhält, ist die BewaffnungsAusstellung, in der Ordonanzwaffen vom Vorderlader bis zum Sturmgewehr und schwere Waffen aller Art zu begutachten sind. Vielfältige Themenbereiche, wie die Schlafräume, die Küche, das Spital, die Büroräume, die Waffenstellungen, der Maschinenraum, die Tarnbauten und das Wasserreservoir runden das vielfältige Angebot ab und machen die Geschichte des zweiten Weltkriegs für jedermann greifbar. „2019 zeigen wir außerdem eine tolle Sonderausstellung zum Thema ‚Schweizer in der Fremdenlegion‘“, erklärt Vereinspräsident Ralf Pötzsch und fährt fort: „Daneben empfehlen wir uns auch ganzjährig für Firmen-, Verein-, Familien- oder sonstige Gruppenevents mit persönlichen Führun-

gen und Verpflegungsmöglichkeiten, wie dem Erlebnisfondue oder Racelette.“ Alles in allem, wartet im Festungsmuseum Heldsberg ein spannender Museumsbesuch auf Einzelbesucher und Gruppen aller Art. Worauf warten Sie? www.festung.ch Stollen.

Issue 70 | January 2019 | 29

Left: Promoting environmental awareness: A group of children from the ‘Clean & Green’ schools in Myanmar. Photo: © Pestalozzi Children's Foundation/Remo Schläpfer. Top right: Breaking down prejudices: Each year, over 3,000 children and adolescents from Switzerland and different European countries get together in the children’s village in Trogen. Photo: © Pestalozzi Children’s Foundation/ Christian Possa. Bottom right: Enabling international encounters: Each year, around 150 adolescents from different European countries exchange ideas at the European Youth Forum Trogen. Photo: © Pestalozzi Children’s Foundation/Michael Ulmann TEXT: NANE STEINHOFF

Education for justice and tolerance In August 1944, Walter Robert Corti called for the building of a children’s village in Trogen in DU magazine. His vision: “Let’s build a world in which children can live”.

Today, the Pestalozzi Children’s Foundation is an international children’s charity which makes regular school attendance possible for children and which has fostered tolerance, as well as mutual understanding, since 1946.

Back then, Walter Robert Corti’s call to action was a huge success. After laying the foundation stone in April 1946, the first European war orphans moved into the children’s village in late summer – and the rest is history. Today, the Pestalozzi Children’s Foundation dedicates itself to children in Switzerland and in 12 other countries worldwide.

As children’s rights are a key component of the foundation’s daily work and their projects are orientated towards the Conventions on the Rights of the Child, 2019 will be a big year for Pestalozzi – after all, the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child will turn 30 this year.“We want children and adolescents to have access to holistic education so that they can contribute to a fairer and more peaceful world. That’s why the Pestalozzi Children’s Foundation carries out education and exchange projects in Switzerland and throughout 30 | Issue 70 | January 2019

the world, while fostering intercultural communication,” explains Elisabeth Reisp, Pestalozzi Children’s Foundation’s head of communications.

Concretely, this means that over 3,000 children and adolescents from Switzerland and other European countries meet in different project formats throughout the year to break down prejudices. The goal of these encounters is to strengthen intercultural competences and solidarity. A highlight is powerup radio, which gives children and adolescents the platform to make their voices heard and to share what they learned during their time in the Children’s Village. Furthermore, two radio buses visit schools all over Switzerland.

Internationally, the foundation has been active in 12 countries in Central America, East Africa, Southeast Europe and Southeast Asia since 1982. According to

the Child’s Rights Convention and the Sustainable Development Goals of 2030, the foundation enables access to education relevant and suitable for children.

Working alongside local project partners, national ministries of education and the responsible school authorities, curricula, teaching methods and teaching materials are developed, teachers are trained, and parents, as well as the community, are integrated into the projects.

Education paves the way to a selfdetermined and economically safe future for children – that is why the Pestalozzi Children’s Foundation stands up for access to high-quality, relevant and needsbased education for children worldwide.

“Each franc that gets invested in education creates multiple values. With this, we reach around 140,000 children, teachers and parents year after year,” Reisp concludes.

The Pestalozzi Children's Foundation receives 80 per cent of its funding through donations.

That is why the foundation counts on the support of numerous donors to realise their education projects in Switzerland and throughout the world.

Discover Germany | Special Theme | Switzerland’s Cultural Highlights of 2019

Bildung für Gerechtigkeit und Toleranz Im August 1944 rief Walter Robert Corti in der Zeitschrift DU dazu auf, in Trogen ein Kinderdorf zu bauen. Sein Grundgedanke: „Bauen wir eine Welt, in welcher die Kinder leben können“. Heute ist die Stifung Kinderdorf Pestalozzi ein international tätiges Kinderhilfswerk, das seit 1946 benachteiligten Kindern einen regelmäßigen Schulbesuch ermöglicht und Toleranz sowie gegenseitiges Verständnis fördert.

Der Aufruf von Walter Robert Corti stieß damals auf großen Anklang. Nach der Grundsteinlegung im April 1946 zogen bereits im Spätsommer die ersten europäischen Kriegswaisen im Kinderdorf ein – der Rest ist Geschichte. Heute engagiert sich die Stiftung Kinderdorf Pestalozzi für Kinder in der Schweiz und in 12 Ländern weltweit.

Da Kinderrechte ein zentraler Eckpfeiler der täglichen Arbeit der Stiftung sind und sich alle Projekte an der Kinderrechtskonvention orientieren, wird 2019 ein großes Jahr für die Stiftung – schließlich wird die Kinderrechtskonvention der Vereinten Nationen in diesem Jahr 30 Jahre alt. „Unsere Vision ist, dass Kinder und Jugendliche Zugang zu ganzheitlicher Bildung haben und damit zu einer gerechteren und friedlicheren Welt beitragen. Darum führt die Stiftung Kinderdorf Pestalozzi Bildungs- und Austauschprojekte in der Schweiz und international durch und fördert die interkulturelle Verständigung“, erklärt

Elisabeth Reisp, Kommunikationsleiterin der Stiftung Kinderdorf Pestalozzi.

Konkret heißt das, dass sich in verschiedenen Projektformaten jährlich über 3.000 Kinder und Jugendliche aus der Schweiz und dem europäischen Ausland im Kinderdorf begegnen, um Vorurteile abzubauen. Das Ziel dieser Begegnungen ist der Ausbau von interkulturellen Kompetenzen und von Solidarität in einer realen gesellschaftlichen Vielfalt. Ein Highlight ist hier das Kinder- und Jugendradio powerup, welches den Teilnehmenden die Möglichkeit gibt, ihre eigene Stimme zu erheben und das Gelernte und Erlebte in eigenen Radiosendungen zu verarbeiten. Ergänzend besuchen zwei Radiobusse der Stiftung Schulen in der ganzen Schweiz.

International ist die Stiftung seit 1982 in 12 Ländern in Zentralamerika, Ostafrika, Südosteuropa und Südostasien tätig. Auf Basis der Kinderrechte und der nachhaltigen Ent-

wicklungsziele 2030 ermöglicht die Stiftung Zugang zu kindgerechter und relevanter Bildung. Gemeinsam mit lokalen Projektpartnern und in Zusammenarbeit mit den nationalen Bildungsministerien und den zuständigen Schulbehörden werden Lehrpläne, -methoden und -material entwickelt, Lehrpersonen weitergebildet sowie Eltern und das Umfeld in die Projekte integriert.

Bildung ebnet Kindern den Weg in eine selbstbestimmte und wirtschaftlich sichere Zukunft.

Deshalb setzt sich die Stiftung Kinderdorf Pestalozzi weltweit für den Zugang zu qualitativ guter und relevanter Bildung ein, die sich an den Bedürfnissen benachteiligter Kinder orientiert. Reisp sagt abschließend: „Jeder in die Bildung investierte Franken erzeugt ein Vielfaches an Wertschöpfung. Jahr für Jahr erreichen wir weltweit über 140.000 Kinder, Lehrpersonen und Eltern.“ www.pestalozzi.ch Die Stiftung Kinderdorf Pestalozzi ist zu mehr als 80 Prozent durch Spenden finanziert.

Nur durch die Unterstützung von zahlreichen Spenderinnen und Spendern kann die Stiftung ihre unterschiedlichen Projekte im Inund Ausland realisieren.

Links: Hochwertige Schulbücher: In Tansania konzentriert sich die Arbeit unter anderem darauf, Unterrichtsmaterial in der Muttersprache Swahili zu entwickeln. Foto: © Stiftung Kinderdorf Pestalozzi/ Peter Käser. Unten links: Schuleingliederung von benachteiligten Kindern: In Moldawien unterstützt das Projekt Kinder und Jugendliche mit schwierigen familiären Situationen bei der sozialen und schulischen Inklusion. Foto: © Stiftung Kinderdorf Pestalozzi/Peter Käser. Rechts: Vogelperspektive: Luftaufnahme des Kinderdorfes in Trogen. Foto: © Stiftung Kinderdorf Pestalozzi

Issue 70 | January 2019 | 31

Photo: © Pixabay

Escape the winter blues with something a little different…

The cold season is in full flow, though sometimes we just cannot get ourselves outdoors in the freezing chill. So why not get our creative juices going, try something completely new and dive into a (warmer) world of imagination? Escape Rooms are the place to be this winter! The trendy new entertainment concept ensures an immersive experience throughout and is the perfect way to forget adult life for just a few hours.

TEXT: MARILENA STRACKE

Escape Rooms are popping up everywhere these days. The concept of being locked in a room filled with riddles, which a team has to solve in order to ‘escape’, may seem a little frivolous at first. But wait until you have tried it, and the fever for finding ingenious clues, overcoming mental obstacles and winning the game in time has taken over.

The trendy entertainment concept has long established itself in various major cities from London to Berlin. Escape Rooms offer the perfect indoor activity to challenge your own mind while the freez32 | Issue 70 | January 2019

ing cold stays outside. Get your group of friends, workmates or family together and see if you can outsmart the game. And rest assured: this is far from child’s play!

Here are some of the top Escape Rooms across the DACH-region.

TeamEscape, Hamburg In the two Escape Room locations run by TeamEscape in Hamburg, you and your team are given 60 minutes to search, collect and combine clues and objects in order to ‘escape’ before time runs out.

Each room is differently themed: there

is, for example, ‘The Gallery’, where you are part of a group of thieves trying to commit the perfect crime by stealing Christopher Columbus’ compass from an art collector. Or try the Escape Room called ‘The Hofman Formula’, where humankind depends on your team finding the antidote to a deadly virus. It will most certainly be anything but boring. (www. teamescape.com/hamburg) Trip Trap, Geneva Trip Trap is known for being a factory of grand immersive experiences, so it should come as no surprise that they also came up with their own Escape Room concept.

At Trip Trap, there are a variety of themed rooms to choose from. In one of them you will meet the greatest voodoo priestess – and maybe realise that accepting her dinner invitation was a mistake. The level of this Escape Room is known for being hard, but who does not relish a good challenge?! (www.triptrapescape.ch)

Discover Germany | Culture Feature | Escape the Winter Blues with Something a Little Different…

Illuminati Escape, Berlin As the name suggests, teams fight the secret organisation Illuminati from taking over the world. In particular, the room called ‘Cyber Attack’ comes highly recommended. It is a bit more technical, but you certainly do not have to be a computer expert to solve this game. Another room involves a secret NASA blueprint, which has to be secured in a casino setting – again, 60 minutes is the time limit and the clock is ticking. It is a great one for team-building challenges and corporate events. (www.illuminati-escape.com) Crime Runners, Vienna This is an Escape Room of the next level and is centred around a secret agent theme. The classic concept has been extended with special effects and incorporates great storytelling. A brand-new premium room is currently being con-

structed and it promises to be another action-packed adventure where teams have to follow the instructions of a secret operator. (www.crimerunners.at) The Room, Berlin With a great sense for detail, the one room that keeps being recommended the most here, is called ‘Beast of Berlin’. Not quite for the faint-hearted, teams are part of a special police force and need to solve the mystery around a serial killer on the streets of Berlin. The story is set against the backdrop of the vibrant 1920s and includes historical facts, which give the game a realistic feel. Sophisticated puzzles and a great range of props make this a full-on immersive adventure. (www.the-room-berlin.com) Masters of Escape, Linz Story is everything in these particular Escape Rooms. The team behind them

Photo: © Illuminati Escape

Photo: © Crime Runners

Photo: © The Room, Berlin

Photo: © Escape Illuminati

fell in love with the concept, but realised that the standard of Austrian Escape Rooms was not quite there yet – hence, they opened their own and it became a great success instantly. Try the room ‘Prison Break’, to use your creativity and logical thinking in order to break free. If you like to think outside the box, choose ‘Wudang Shan’ and dive into the world of old China and Thai-Chi masters. (www.linz.moescape.com) Regardless of which one you choose or how sceptical you are at first, Escape Rooms are certainly worth a try, even for those amongst us who are generally not into games as such. The immersive element usually takes over very quickly and it is a good reminder that there is a creative kid in all of us after all – and from time to time we should nurture that part of us a little bit as well.

Photo: © Crime Runners

Issue 70 | January 2019 | 33

Discover Germany | Travel | Hotel of the Month

HO TE L O F THE MON TH

H’Otello B’01 Munich:

TEXT: MARILENA STRACKE I PHOTOS: H’OTELLO B’01

H’Otello B‘01 München:

A grand hotel of modern times Ein Grand Hotel der Neuzeit Munich’s boutique hotel H’Otello B’01 is a real design gem. Aside from its incredible location in the trendy lifestyle area of Glockenbach, it also offers guests an array of premium services.

Das Münchner Boutique-Hotel H’Otello B‘01 ist ein echtes Design-Schmuckstück. Neben seiner unschlagbaren Location im angesagten Lifestyle-Viertel Glockenbach überzeugt es mit einem Service der Spitzenklasse.

Only a short stroll away from the Viktualienmarkt, Gärtnerplatz and the Deutsche Theater, is the H’Otello B’01. For sophisticated city tourists, as well as for trend-conscious business travellers from all over the world, the hotel offers a wonderful base in the heart of Munich.

Nur ein paar Gehminuten vom Viktualienmarkt, dem Gärtnerplatz und dem Deutschen Theater entfernt, findet man das H’Otello B’01. Anspruchsvollen City Touristen, sowie trendbewussten Geschäftsreisenden aus aller Welt, bietet das Hotel einen wunderbaren Ausgangspunkt im Herzen Münchens.

“The H’Otello B’01 is a place which connects old and new, with a lot of space for individual design and well-being,” says press director Ines Fuzio. The boutique hotel’s rooms were designed

by Yasemin Loher. Comfortably subtle while still maintaining a statement-factor: the interior design sets new standards. Natural materials and cleverly positioned highlights, such as the comfy designer chair ‘Petit-Repos’, made by Vitra, in the lounge area, and the collaboration with local manufactories, all add to the unique atmosphere.

„Das H’Otello B’01 ist ein Ort, der Altes und Neues verbindet, der Platz für individuelles Design und Raum für Wohlbefinden gibt“, erzählt Presseleiterin Ines Fuzio. So wurden die Räume des Boutique-Hotels von Yasemin Loher durchdacht in Szene gesetzt. Angenehm zurückhaltend, aber trotzdem mit Statement-Faktor setzt das Interior Design neue Maßstäbe. Natürliche Materialen, clever gesetzte Hingucker wie zum Beispiel der Design-Sessel ‚Petit-Repos‘ der Marke Vitra im Loungebereich und die Zusammenarbeit mit lokalen Manufakturen tragen zu diesem einzigartigen Ambiente bei.

When it comes to the culinary side of things, the hotel favours organic quality and short supply routes.“The origin of the produce is very important to us and that’s why we receive the ingredients for our breakfast buffet mainly from regional suppliers, whom we trust,” Fuzio adds.

Auch kulinarisch wird auf Bio-Qualität und kurze Lieferwege gesetzt. „Die Herkunft der Produkte liegt uns sehr am Herzen und deshalb beziehen wir für unser Frühstücksbuffet bevorzugt regional produzierte Waren von Erzeugern, denen wir vertrauen“, so Fuzio.

A personal service throughout every guest’s stay is second nature at H’Otello and it is as much of a given as a comfortable bed. The trendy boutique hotel is a luxurious place, where you can simply relax and let go.

34 | Issue 70 | January 2019

Ein rundum persönlicher Service ist im H’Otello ebenso selbstverständlich wie ein bequemes Bett. Das trendige Boutique-Hotel ist ein luxuriöser Ort, an dem man sich einfach wohlfühlen darf. www.hotello.de/b01-muenchen

REAL ENTERTAINMENT FOR

SMALL-TALKERS AND BIG PLAYERS

www.casino-bad-homburg.de The minimum age is 18 years | Admission only with a valid ID card or passport | Make sure gambling doesn’t turn into a serious addiction: phone 0800 / 137 27 00 for advice

Photo: © Zuerich Tourismus, swiss-image.ch/Martin Ruetschi

SPECIAL THEME: FOCUS ON ZURICH – THE CITY’S HIGHLIGHTS OF 2019

The Swiss city that has it all While obviously impressing with a medieval old town with plenty of sights, charming streets and shops, Zurich is also a mustvisit for art and culture fans, as well as nature enthusiasts. Unsurprisingly, Zurich is also a wonderfully trendy town – so there really is something for everyone to explore. In the following special theme, we showcase some of the best places to visit.

TEXT: NANE STEINHOFF

Christmas impressions on Bahnhofstrasse, Zurich.

Photo: © Switzerland Tourism, swiss-image.ch/Ivo Scholz

36 | Issue 70 | January 2019

Discover Germany | Special Theme | Focus on Zurich – The City’s Highlights of 2019

The Kunsthaus, Zurich. Photo: © Switzerland Tourism, swiss-image.ch/Christoph Schuerpf

If you have been in Zurich before, you know how enchanting this city really is. If you have not been, 2019 might be the year you should plan a visit. As Switzerland’s largest city and a global centre for banking and finance, it is easy to forget that it is also a delightful place for tourists. With a population of around 400,000, Zurich lies at the north end of Lake Zurich in northern Switzerland. It is a relatively small city but, nonetheless, has a lot on offer.

For example, the picturesque lanes of the old town reflect the city’s pre-medieval history. Taking a stroll through the charming lanes while gazing at the many cute shops and impressive medieval and Renaissance architecture is an experience in itself. Top attractions like the Bahnhofstrasse, St Peter’s Church or Lake Zurich should not be left out either, of course. Or why not

head to the Limmatquai, a waterfront promenade which follows the river towards the 17th-century town hall? Luckily, Zurich is perfectly laid-out for sightseeing on foot.

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

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

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

Zurich Opera House.

Photo: © Switzerland Tourism, swiss-image.ch/Ivo Scholz

If you plan a trip to Zurich in 2019, be sure to read the following special theme where we have handpicked some of the city’s highlights of 2019 which are all well worth a visit.

Issue 70 | January 2019 | 37

Discover Germany | Special Theme | Focus on Zurich – The City’s Highlights of 2019

TEXT: SILKE HENKELE I PHOTOS: THE ALEHOUSE – PALMHOF

Beer is the new wine – Zurich’s Alehouse

Beer is the new wine – Zürichs Alehouse

Following the motto ‘drink craft, not crap’, Zurich’s The Alehouse - Palmhof focuses on the quality and variety of its craft beers. We take a closer look!

Frei nach dem Motto ‚Drink craft, not crap’, zählt im Zürcher The Alehouse – Palmhof vor allem die Qualität und die Vielfalt der angebotenen Craftbiere. Wir haben uns umgesehen.

Gastropub The Alehouse - Palmhof opened its doors in 2017 and is now a popular meeting place for aficionados of exceptional beer.

The variety of tasty brands on offer here is remarkably wide.

Der im Jahre 2017 eröffnete Gastropub The Alehouse - Palmhof ist ein angesagter Treffpunkt für Liebhaber außergewöhnlicher Biere. Die Vielfalt an leckeren Bieren, mit der das Alehouse seine Gäste verwöhnt, ist dementsprechend umfangreich.

“We always have more than 20 different craft beers from Swiss or international breweries in our taps,” says Yared Haile Selassie, co-founder of The Alehouse. “As we are interested in exciting tastes, the range of our offer changes constantly. If one barrel is empty, we tap another brand.”

„Wir haben stets über 20 Craftbiere von Schweizer und internationalen Brauereien im Angebot“, erzählt Yared Haile Selassie, einer der Mitbegründer des Alehouses. „Da bei uns zudem das Entdecken neuer Geschmackserlebnisse im Vordergrund steht, wechseln wir unser Bierangebot ständig. Heißt, wenn ein Fass leer ist, zapfen wir eine neue Geschmackssorte an.“

And the variety of spectacular tastes seems infinite: “Ranging from the rather flowery India Pale Ale to refreshing Saisons, complex, spontaneously fermented vintage Lambics and barrel-aged Imperial Stouts, our beers pretty much cover the whole wide world of craft beers,” Yared proudly tells us.

Hier scheint das Angebot an interessanten Geschmacksexplosionen fast unendlich: „Vom blumigen India Pale Ales über erfrischende Saisons, komplexe spontanfermentierte Jahrgangs-Lambics bis hin zu in Rum-, Wein- oder Whiskeyfässern gelagerten Imperal Stouts habe wir so ziemlich alles im Angebot, was der Craftbier-Markt aktuell im Angebot hat“, zählt Yared stolz auf.

Yet, how does one get the best out of a visit to The Alehouse – Palmhof? “The welcoming, cosy atmosphere of our premises is an invitation to stay,” confirms Yared.“So we offer classic pub food like Caesar salad or fish & chips, but also specials you wouldn’t really expect to find on an alehouse menu.”

Was jedoch wäre der Genuss eines Craftbiers ohne den passenden Imbiss? „Die gemütliche Atmosphäre des Alehouse - Palmhof lädt zum Verweilen ein“, weiß Yared. „Und so bieten wir neben den Pubklassikern wie Caesar Salad oder Fish & Chips auch Specials an, die man in einem Gastropub vielleicht eher weniger erwarten würde.“

Guests are in for spectacular surprises at regular events like the pub quizzes with ensuing beer tasting. “We are particularly looking forward to the ‘tap-takeovers’, when one brewery ‘hijacks’ our taps and surprises us and our guests with their latest creations,” explains Yared.

Besondere Überraschungen erwarten die Gäste bei den wiederkehrenden Veranstaltungen wie beispielsweise dem Pub-Quiz mit anschließendem Biertasting. „Wir freuen uns insbesondere auf unsere sog. ‚Tap-Takeovers‘, bei denen jeweils eine Brauerei unsere Zapfanlage übernimmt und uns und unsere Gäste mit ihren jeweils neuesten Bierkreationen überrascht“, erklärt Yared.

The Alehouse - Palmhof in Zurich: for lovers of distinct beers.

The Alehouse - Palmhof in Zürich: wenn es mal ein anderes Bier sein darf. www.alehouse.ch

38 | Issue 70 | January 2019

Discover Germany | Special Theme | Focus on Zurich – The City’s Highlights of 2019

Main floor overlooking the Sechseläutenplatz.

Corso-Haus around 1910.

Falco.

Usaine Bolt.

Die Toten Hosen.

TEXT: MARILENA STRACKE I PHOTOS: CLUB MASCOTTE

Come as you are…

Come as you are…

Zurich’s famous Club Mascotte is a real institution. For over a hundred years it has enjoyed huge popularity, and also beyond the Swiss border too. From stars and starlets to dance-loving party people and concert fans – everyone knows the Mascotte.

Der berühmte Zürcher Club Mascotte ist eine echte Institution.

Seit über 100 Jahren erfreut er sich größter Beliebtheit, auch über die Schweizer Grenzen hinaus. Von Stars und Sternchen zu tanzwütigen Partygängern und musikinteressierten Konzertfans – das Mascotte ist jedem ein Begriff.

Since its opening in 1916, the club at the legendary Corso-Haus has remained one of the most popular establishments in Zurich.

“Up to now, four generations have been able to appreciate this unique space and experience it as a meeting point and place of culture. Stars visited regularly… and still do!” says Mascotte’s Alfonso Siegrist.

Seit der Eröffnung 1916, ist der Club im berühmten Corso-Haus einer der bestbesuchten Etablissements in Zürich. „Ganze vier Generationen haben die einzigartigen Räumlichkeiten bis heute als Stätte der Begegnung und Ort der Kultur genutzt und schätzen gelernt. Viele Stars gingen hier ein und aus… und tun dies noch immer!“ sagt Alfonso Siegrist vom Mascotte.

Es steckt viel Zürcher Kulturgeschichte in den Mauern des Clubs, der über die Jahrzehnte internationale Künstler-Legenden wie Josephine Baker, Louis Armstrong, Sammy Davis Jr. oder Falco begrüßen durfte.

Daran hat sich mit Acts wie Arcade Fire, Florence & The Machine oder den Toten Hosen auch nichts geändert.

Täglich bietet das Mascotte ein breitgefächertes Programm aus DJ-Sets, Konzerten, Comedy, Lesungen und weiteren Events. Auch als Eventlocation, ob tagsüber oder abends, ist das Mascotte für Firmenanlässe, Seminare, Familienfeste, Modeschauen oder Pressekonferenzen eine vortreffliche Wahl.

A lot of Zurich’s cultural history is remains in these walls and, over the decades, the Mascotte has welcomed international artistlegends such as Josephine Baker, Louis Armstrong, Sammy Davis Jr. and Falco. And with recent top-acts such as Arcade Fire, Florence & The Machine and the Tote Hosen visiting, not much has changed in that respect.

The Mascotte offers a daily, varied programme including DJ-sets, live concerts, comedy nights, readings and other events. Whether by day or by night, it is also the perfect venue for corporate events, seminars, family occasions, fashion shows or press conferences.

In February, the successful management team celebrates its 15th Im Februar feiert das erfolgreiche Management-Team sein 15-jähriges anniversary with many live shows featuring top acts such as Jubiläum mit vielen Live Shows, darunter Top-Acts wie Khruangbin, Khruangbin, Seafret, Trail of Dead and The Lemonheads – a per- Seafret, Trail of Dead oder The Lemonheads – ein perfekter Grund, um fect reason to pop by at Sechseläutenplatz, because the wieder Mal am Sechseläutenplatz vorbeizuschauen, denn info@mascotte.ch Mascotte is and will always remain a legendary place to be. das Mascotte ist und bleibt einfach eine legendäre Adresse.

Go check it out!

+41 (0)44 260 15 80 www.mascotte.ch

Go check it out!

Issue 70 | January 2019 | 39

Discover Germany | Special Theme | Focus on Zurich – The City’s Highlights of 2019

TEXT: JESSICA HOLZHAUSEN I PHOTOS: KAISER FRANZ

Where beer meets international football:

Bier trifft internationalen Fußball:

A bar with soul in the heart of Zurich

Eine Bar mit Seele im Herzen von Zürich

The football bar Kaiser Franz, as one of only a few bars in Zurich, shows the German Bundesliga every Saturday, as well as all Champions League games and the European and World Championships. It is a meeting point for Zurich football fans from different countries – Switzerland, as well as Belgium, Germany or England. And on Friday and Saturday evenings, football makes space for dancing and drinks.

Als Bier- und Fußballbar zeigt Kaiser Franz als eine der wenigen Bars in Zürich jeden Samstag die Bundesliga Live, sowie alle Champions League Spiele – und natürlich EM und WM. Und so treffen sich hier Zürcher Fußballfans aus aller Herren Länder, Schweizer ebenso wie Deutsche, Belgier oder Engländer. Freitags und samstags Abend legen DJs auf und der Fußball weicht Tanz und Trank.

‘Go outside and play football – or come in and drink some beer’, is the motto at Kaiser Franz. The name itself already reveals the close connection to football: The bar is named after the legendary German football player Franz Beckenbauer.

“Franz Beckenbauer embodies football excellence and talks in a down-to-earth tone we normally only find in smaller club houses,” says the bar manager Rudy.

‚Geht’s raus und spielt’s Fußball - kommt’s rein und trinkt’s Bier!‘ ist das Motto im Kaiser Franz. Bereits der Name verrät den Fußballbezug: Die Bar ist nach dem legendären deutschen Fußballer Franz Beckenbauer benannt. „Franz Beckenbauer verkörpert Fussballexzellenz und parliert ständig in jenem Ton, den wir leider nur noch aus unterklassigen Vereinslokalen kennen“, sagt Geschäftsführer Rudy.

Rudy knows most of his guests by name and is well-known in Zurich – not only as the bar’s good soul, but also as something of a walking beer-encyclopedia! Sometimes a bit tired and chaotic, he is still always in a good mood. During the popular beer tastings that the bar hosts, Rudy not only puts beer on the counter, he also puts it into a historic context, including everything from details about taste, ingredients and production process, right up to the triumphs and failures of breweries large and small. This always makes a visit to Kaiser Franz an unforgettable experience: both for the tastebuds and the mind!

40 | Issue 70 | January 2019

Rudy begrüßt viele seiner Gäste noch namentlich und ist in Zürich stadtbekannt – nicht nur als gute Seele des Lokals, sondern auch als wandelndes Bierlexikon: Manchmal etwas müde oder chaotisch, aber immer gut gelaunt, stellt Rudi in seinen beliebten Degustationen nicht nur Biere auf den Tresen, sondern auch in einen anregenden geschichtlichen Kontext.

Ausführungen zum Geschmack, über Zutaten und Herstellungsprozesse bis hin zu den Triumpfen und Niederlagen bekannter und weniger bekannter Brauereien. So wird aus einem Barbesuch im Kaiser Franz ein unvergessliches Erlebnis. www.kaiserfranz.li

Discover Germany | Special Theme | Focus on Zurich – The City’s Highlights of 2019

Left: Miller’s stage. Middle: Comedian Paul Duncan McGarrity. Photo: Matthew Highton @ Paul Duncan McGarrity. Right: Team Sei kein Mann! from left to right: Pit Arne Pietz, Lisa Bärenbold, Esther Gemsch, Patrick Frey.

TEXT: MARILENA STRACKE

Close to the action, reflective Nah am Geschehen, reflektierand often extremely amusing end und oft extrem amüsant Miller’s Theater in Zurich not only brings Swiss theatre stars such as Katja Früh and Patrick Frey to their stage, but also various internationally famous comedians. And how better to kick off the new year than with lots of laughter?

Miller’s Theater in Zürich bringt nicht nur Schweizer TheaterGrößen wie Katja Früh und Patrick Frey auf die Bühne, sondern auch zahlreiche internationale Comedy-Stars. Und wie kann man besser ins neue Jahr starten als mit viel Lachen?

The programme of Miller’s Theater offers an international mix of outstanding performances. The year begins with a premier from the famous Swiss author-duo Katja Früh and Patrick Frey. “Sei kein Mann! (Don’t Be a Man) is about a politician who loses not only his political integrity, but finally also his identity as a man, thanks to a questionable image consultation,” says artistic director Barbara Ellenberger.

Das aktuelle Programm von Miller’s Theater bietet eine internationale Künstler-Mischung der Extra-Klasse. Zunächst startet das Jahr aber mit einer Premiere des bekannten Schweizer Autoren-Duos Katja Früh und Patrick Frey. „Sei kein Mann! handelt von einem Politiker, der dank einer fragwürdigen Imageberatung nicht nur seine politische Integrität, sondern letztlich auch seine Identität als Mann verliert“, sagt Barbara Ellenberger, die künstlerische Geschäftsleiterin.

At the end of January, German-Moroccan comedian, cabaret artist and TV presenter Abdelkarim will bring tears of laughter to Miller’s. From youth culture and life in Bielefeld’s Bronx to current and socio-political subjects, Abdelkarim creates stories which are hilariously irritating yet subtly on-point.

Ende Januar sorgt der deutsch-marokkanische Komiker, Kabarettist und Fernsehmoderator Abdelkarim für Lachtränen. Von der Jugendkultur, über das Leben in der Bielefelder Bronx bis hin zu tagesaktuellen und gesellschaftspolitischen Themen spinnt Abdelkarim gleichermaßen irritierende wie feinsinnige Geschichten.

An equally funny and successful series at Miller’s is Laughter Lines, curated by well-known SRF3-presenter and NZZjournalist Hanspeter Künzler. Ellenberger explains: “Once a month, Miller’s flies comedians in directly from London. In February, we welcome the award-winning John Robertson from Australia and British comedian Paul Duncan McGarrity. Artistically, it’s a great concept, but ecologically it doesn’t make sense – we are looking for solutions.”

Eine ebenso komische wie erfolgreiche Programm-Reihe im Miller‘s ist Laughter Lines, kuratiert vom bekannten SRF3-Mann und NZZJournalisten Hanspeter Künzler. Ellenberger erklärt: „Das Miller’s fliegt einmal im Monat Comedians direkt aus London ein. Im Februar stehen der vielfach ausgezeichnete Australier John Robertson und der Brite Paul Duncan McGarrity auf unserer Bühne. Künstlerisch ist das grossartig, ökologisch aber unsinnig, wir suchen nach Lösungen.“

Bang-on and often incredibly funny – Miller’s offers a wonderfully analogue counterpart to today’s on-demand-culture. Proper theatre at its best!

Treffsicher und oft saukomisch – das Miller’s bietet ein wunderbar analoges Gegenstück zur heutigen On-Demand-Kultur. Echtes Theater eben! www.millers.ch Issue 70 | January 2019 | 41

Discover Germany | Special Theme | Focus on Zurich – The City’s Highlights of 2019

Unique interior.

Cocktails in style.

All is illuminated.

Cozy and classy.

TEXT: CORNELIA BRELOWSKI I PHOTOS: LONGSTREET BAR

Effortlessly hip, in a Cabaret style

Mit Stil, Charme und Cabaret

The Longstreet Bar in Zurich has, since more than a decade ago, helped a formerly neglected, infamous neighbourhood to grow into a much-visited and vivacious area, and an essential nightlife destination.

Die Longstreet Bar in Zürich hat mit ihrer Gründung vor über zehn Jahren maßgeblich dazu beigetragen, ein ehemaliges Rotlichtviertel in eine beliebte, hippe Ausgehmeile zu verwandeln.

The charm and flair of the Cabaret venue formerly based here were retained with unique, stylish interior ideas. The establishment was turned into a fashionable, trendy bar in 2005 by some well-known personalities from the Zurich nightlife scene − a smart, visionary move that marked the first step for the borough in becoming the up-and-coming, hip quarter that it is today.

Das einzigartige Interieur erinnert Besucher an die Zeiten, als hier noch ein Cabaret etabliert war. 2005 durch bekannte Züricher Nightlife-Größen in eine Szenebar umgewandelt, blieben Charme und Flair des Ortes in stilvoller Aneignung erhalten. Das ‚Make-Over‘ des Etablissements bildete so den ersten Schritt für das vernachlässigte Langstrassen-Viertel zu dem trendigen urbanen Quartier, das es heute ist – eine kluge und visionäre Idee.

Attracting urban hipsters with a sharp sense for trends and fashion, music and lifestyle, the Longstreet Bar also forms a haven for the residents of the adjoining new business office buildings. Visitors value the quality drinks, events and fine music, be it at the weekend club nights or at the elegant bar for an ‘Apéro’ − the Swiss term for the sophisticated after-work cocktail.

The legendary first floor fumoir has recently been enhanced with a new sound system and cocktail bar, as well as a hall of mirrors that gives an instant ‘wow-effect’. Whether you want to enjoy a cocktail hour with a few of your best friends, or simply book the entire lounge for your own private event − it promises to be the perfect choice of venue for all of that and more!

42 | Issue 70 | January 2019

Heute zieht die Longstreet Bar vor allem das hippe, urbane Publikum mit Sinn für Mode, guter Musik und Lifestyle an. Dieses wird mehr und mehr durch Besucher aus den umliegenden Business Offices ergänzt, denen ein stilvoller ‚Apéro‘ – schweizerisch für den gediegenen After-work Drink – am Herzen liegt, oder die gern im Weekend Club die Nächte durchfeiern.

Das legendäre Fumoir im ersten Stock bietet abgesehen von neuem Sound-System und Cocktailbar auch einen Spiegelsaal mit ‚Wow-Effekt‘.

Hier kann man bestens den Cocktail unter Freunden genießen oder auch gleich die gesamte Lounge buchen – für Privatanlässe mit Stil! www.longstreetbar.ch

REGENBOGEN BAR DIE KULT-BAR IN ZÜRICHS ALTSTADT

Die Regenbogen Bar, die von Einheimischen auch liebevoll ‘Rägebögli’ oder ‘Bögli’ genannt wird, ist ein beliebter Treffpunkt für Touristen und Einheimische inmitten Zürichs Altstadt. Im gemütlichen Rosenhof gelegen, findet man hier den perfekten Ort zur Entspannung nach Shopping Trips, Sightseeing-Touren oder anstrengenden Arbeitstagen.

Die Bar, die in einem Gebäude aus 1340 zu finden ist, serviert leckere Cocktails und Drinks, sowie feine Snacks wie Burger oder Sandwiches.

Im Sommer trumpft das Bögli außerdem mit seinem Garten im Innenhof.

Discover Germany | Special Theme | Focus on Zurich – The City’s Highlights of 2019

The thermal bath Thermalbad & Spa Zurich: the roof bath.

Mountain panorama or Zurich city flair

Relaxing at Switzerland’s most beautiful spots Ancient civilisations already knew about the healing and relaxing properties of water. The mineral bath and spa Rigi Kaltbad, in the middle of the Swiss Alps, and the thermal bath Thermalbad & Spa Zurich, relate to this tradition and offer guests a relaxing bathing experience in exceptional surroundings.

TEXT: JESSICA HOLZHAUSEN I PHOTOS: AQUA-SPA-RESORTS

The origin of the Thermalbad & Spa Zurich lies deep down below the city: here, the legendary ‘Aqui’-well springs from the earth, which supplies the bath with warm water full of minerals. The mineral water was once the basis for the locally brewed Hürlimann beer and the brewery’s centuries-old vaults are today part of the spa. Here, guests can bathe in large wooden barrels. The journey takes guests from the vaults right up to the top of the roof: from the emerald bath, over the meditation bath, steam bath and Kneipp zone, up to the roof bath under the open sky with a spectacular view over city and mountains.

44 | Issue 70 | January 2019

One of the highlights is the ‘Irish-Roman’ spa ritual. “Here, different ancient bathing cultures have been combined in a unique, relaxing cleansing ritual,”says Merve Kutay, director of marketing and communication at AQUA-SPA-RESORTS AG, which runs both spas. A certain sequence of rooms and treatments first warm up the body, then clean it and finally cool it down again.

Subterranean bathing with a mountain view An alternative to the city bath lies in the middle of the Swiss Alps: the mineral bath and spa Rigi Kaltbad. It has ties to a

600-year-old tradition, according to Merve Kutay. “In the past, the mineral springs of the cold bath attracted guests from all over the world.” In 2012, the bath with a view over the mountain range was completely refurbished by the internationally renowned architect Mario Botta. The Rigi Kaltbad lies underneath the village square, and glass skylights, formed like crystals, bring in light during the day and lighten up the square at night.

The 35-degrees-warm bath, with its large alcoves, is fed by a local spring, the ‘Drei Schwestern Brunnen’. The connected spa area contains, among other things, a herb sauna and a unique crystal bath: the 50-square-metre-large, completely flooded room lies nine metres below the village square. When floating on one’s back, through one of the 3.5-metre-high crystals, guests can look right up to the surface.

Discover Germany | Special Theme | Focus on Zurich – The City’s Highlights of 2019

Ob Bergpanorama oder Züricher-Stadtflair

Entspannung an den schönsten Orten der Schweiz Schon die antiken Hochkulturen wussten um die heilende und entspannende Wirkung des Wassers. Das Mineralbad & Spa Rigi Kaltbad inmitten der Schweizer Alpen und das Thermalbad & Spa Zürich knüpfen an diese Tradition an und bieten Gästen ein erholsames Badeerlebnis an außergewöhnlichen Orten.

Der Ursprung des Thermalbad & Spa Zürich liegt tief unterhalb der Stadt: Hier entspringt die legendären ‚Aqui‘-Quelle, die das Bad mit mineralhaltigem und warmem Wasser versorgt. Das Mineralwasser bildete einst die Basis für das Bier der Brauerei Hürlimann, deren hundertjährige Steingewölbe heute Teil des Thermalbads sind. In den alten Tonnengewölben baden Gästen in riesigen Fässern aus Holz. Vom Erdgewölbe bis hoch über die Dächer geht die Reise der Badegäste: Über das Smaragd-Bad, ein Meditationsbad, das Dampfbad und die Kneippzone hinauf zum Dachbad unter freiem Himmel mit Blick über die Stadt und die angrenzende Bergwelt.

Zu den Höhepunkten des Thermalbad & Spa Zürich gehört das ‚Irisch-Römische‘ SpaRitual. „Hier wurden verschiedene antike Badekulturen zu einem einmaligen, entspannenden Reinigungsritual verbunden“, sagt Merve Kutay, Leitung Marketing und Kommunikation der AQUA-SPA-RESORTS AG,

die beide Bäder betreibt. Eine Folge bestimmter Räume und Behandlungen sind genau aufeinander abgestimmt: In zehn Stationen wird der Körper zunächst erwärmt, dann gereinigt und schließlich wieder abgekühlt.

Unterirdisches Baden mit Blick auf die Bergwelt Eine Alternative zum Stadtbad liegt inmitten der Schweizer Alpenwelt: Das Mineralbad & Spa Rigi Kaltbad. Es knüpft an eine 600 Jahre alte Tradition an, sagt Merve Kutay. „Früher war es die Heilquelle des ‚Kalten Bads’, die Gäste aus aller Welt an diesen einmaligen Ort zog.“ 2012 wurde das Bad mit Blick auf das Bergpanorama durch den international renommierten Architekten Mario Botta komplett neu gestaltete. Das Mineralbad & Spa Rigi Kaltbad liegt unter dem Dorfplatz, Glasoberlichter, geformt wie Kristalle, bringen tagsüber Tageslicht in das darunter liegende Bad und beleuchten abends den Dorfplatz.

Das Thermalbad & Spa Zürich: das ‚Irisch-Römische‘ Spa-Ritual.

Das 35 Grad warme Bad mit seinen großen, ausgewaschenen Felsnischen wird gespeist aus den Heilquellen des ‚Drei Schwestern Brunnens‘, der bei der Kapelle des Ortes entspringt. Der angrenzende Spa-Bereich bietet unter anderem eine Kräuter-Sauna und das einzigartige Kristallbad: Der 50 Quadratmeter große komplett geflutete Raum liegt neun Meter unter dem Dorfplatz. Wer aber auf dem Rücken im Wasser gleitet, der kann durch einen der 3,5 Meter hohen Kristalle bis hinauf zur Oberfläche schauen. www.mineralbad-rigikaltbad.ch www.thermalbad-zuerich.ch Das Mineralbad & Spa Rigi Kaltbad.

Das Mineralbad & Spa Rigi Kaltbad.

Issue 70 | January 2019 | 45

Discover Germany | Special Theme | Focus on Zurich – The City’s Highlights of 2019

Kronplatz. Photo: © www.wisthaler.com

What winter sportspeople want What factors are important for skiers when choosing their next holiday destination?

Which ski resorts meet the respective demands? Within the scope of the study ‘Best Ski Resort’ (carried out by Mountain Management Consulting in collaboration with the University of Innsbruck/Bozen), around 46,000 winter sportspeople were asked about their preferences and satisfaction in the last season – directly at the pistes of 55 selected top ski areas in the Alpine region. The results were presented on 8 November in Innsbruck.

TEXT: NANE STEINHOFF & C.C. SCHMID

The title of the most sought-after place of the overall evaluation was won by South Tyrol’s Kronplatz – guests ennobled the region with especially high satisfaction values – followed by Switzerland’s Zermatt (second place). The third place was shared by Serfauss-Fiss-Ladis in Austria’s Tyrol, and South Tyrol’s Val Gardena in South Italy.

Largest ‘on mountain’ survey in the Alps Exactly 45,847 skiers and snowboarders were part of the largest ‘on mountain’ survey of the Alps in 2017/18 and answered questions about relevance and satisfaction 46 | Issue 70 | January 2019

in over 20 categories. This therefore makes the ‘Best Ski Resort Report’ the industry’s most comprehensive, periodically carried out customer satisfaction study in the Alpine region. It delivers interesting findings about the quality of the ski resorts and guest satisfaction, as well as the most important factors when choosing one’s winter sports destination, to holidaymakers and regional decision-makers alike.

Best Ski Resort 2018: Kronplatz In the overall evaluation, the Italian winter sports region of Kronplatz overtook Switzerland’s Zermatt (second place with

8.51 points) thanks to phenomenal satisfaction values (8.54 points). The overall winner especially excelled in the category of transport comfort, but also made its guests very happy through its snow guarantee, its friendliness and its gastronomy. Third place was shared by Serfauss-Fiss-Ladis in Austria’s Tyrol and South Tyrol’s Val Gardena (both 8.40). Spots five to ten were filled with Italy’s Alta Badia (five), Switzerland’s Grächen (six), Switzerland’s Arosa Lenzerheide (seven), Switzerland’s Aletsch Arena (eight), Italy’s Livigno (nine) and Switzerland’s Laax, as well as Austria’s Sölden, in the tenth spot.

Zermatt village by night.

Photo: © Zermatt Bergbahnen AG

Discover Germany | Travel Feature | What Winter Sportspeople Want

Most important selection criteria: the size When choosing one’s winter sports destination, the size of the ski region, as well as the range of slopes remain the most important selection criteria. The demand for a larger area increases with one’s abilities on the piste. Many ski regions react towards this trend through joining forces with their adjoining regions. Winter sports fans in South Tyrol’s Alta Badia were especially happy here. The region leads the ranking with its new merger with St. Anton am Arlberg.

Expectations shift In comparison with the study’s previous results, the size category registered declining tendencies, however, while the categories ‘friendliness’ (Switzerland’s Grächen – first place) and ‘safety on the pistes’ (Switzerland’s Zermatt – first place) have greatly gained in significance.

The categories of ‘fun & entertainment’ (Switzerland’s Grächen – first place) and ‘nature experience’ (Italy’s Alta Badia – first place) carried more weight too.

The second most important criteria when selecting one’s ski resort remains to be ‘snow guarantee’ (Switzerland’s Saas Fee

– first place). Last winter, the demand for snow was fulfilled in most ski regions so that the management of the large amounts of snow was more of a challenge.

Switzerland’s Aletsch Arena seemed to have an especially beautiful white carpet on offer for their guests, which rewarded the region with top-notch satisfaction values (first place in the category ‘piste preparation/piste quality’).

As in previous years, Ischgl gained the highest satisfaction values in the ‘aprèsski’ category, while Laax remains to be the fun snowpark Mecca of the Alps. Families with children felt most comfortable in Switzerland’s Grächen this year and, in Italy’s Sulden am Ortler, the provided service for price seemed to be especially attractive.

Conclusion All in all, the competition becomes harder.

Those who want to remain attractive to holidaymakers not only need to invest and be creative – but also need to focus on clear positioning above all. The increasing touristic offering in winter – with long-distance, city and boat trips – keeps on increasing the competitive pressure on ski regions. Increasing satisfaction values of winter sports

Mountain restaurant Blue Lounge, Zermatt. Photo: © MyMatterhorn.com

Serfauss-Fiss-Ladis.

Photo: © Serfauss-Fiss-Ladis, Fisser Bergbahnen

fans confirm some regions’ high commitment to new products and increasing service quality. An interesting finding here is that the satisfaction values of the frontrunners increase stronger than those of other ski resorts – with progressive expectations.

After all, the more famous (and thus, more expensive) a ski region is, the more critical its guests are. That is why they have to put even more effort in to achieve high satisfaction values.

A clear positioning seems to be hugely important. In other words: what does the region stand for? When a region’s individual strengths are clearly visible for the guests, they tend to rate the region better.

According to study director Mike Partel, the greatest challenge remains to be the decreasing loyalty towards ski regions (around 30 per cent of people constantly change their preferred ski region). Even content guests want to see and experience many new offerings – as opposed to previous generations.

In the future, it will therefore be increasingly about delighting guests with ‘wow effects’, which result in recommendations.

More rankings and information about the study can be found on the following website: www.best-skiresorts.com

Val Gardena. Photo: © valgardena.it

Alta Badia. Photo: © Alta Badia, Gastronomie

by Suedtirol Marketing, Frieder Blickle

Laax. Photo: © Laax, Gaudenz Danuser

Issue 70 | January 2019 | 47

Discover Germany | Travel | A Healthy Smile – Tooth Design Trends 2019

Sparen beim Zahnarzt in Ungarn:

Maßgeschneidert und vertrauensvoll bei höchster Qualität Ein strahlendes Lächeln und gesunde Zähne sind uns allen wichtig. Wer bei Zahnbehandlungen Kosten sparen, und trotzdem die gleiche Qualität wie zu Hause bekommen möchte, ist bei den Experten von FirstMed Services, dem Marktführer für Zahnreisen nach Ungarn, in allerbesten Händen.

TEXT: MARILENA STRACKE I FOTOS: SIR RICHARD PICTURE

Im 21. Jahrhundert ist es gang und gäbe, medizinische Eingriffe auch im Ausland durchführen zu lassen. Gerade in der Zahnmedizin schauen viele Patienten nach Ungarn, dem sogenannten Zahnzentrum Europas. Grund dafür ist, dass eine Zahnbehandlung in Ungarn wesentlich günstiger ist, und dass der Festzuschuss deutscher Krankenversicherungen immer gleich bleibt – unabhängig davon, wo man sich im EU-Ausland behandeln lässt und wie hoch die Kosten sind.

Damit aber sichergestellt ist, dass der Qualitätsstandard genauso hoch wie zu Hause ist und auch Nachbehandlungen im Heimatland kein Problem darstellen, ist ein vertrauensvoller Partner unumgänglich. FirstMed Services ist mit den bekannten Marken ‚Zahnklinik-Ungarn.de‘ in Deutschland und ‚Dental Travel‘ in der Schweiz als der erste Anbieter für Zahnreisen nach Ungarn bereits seit den 90ern 48 | Issue 70 | January 2019

aktiv. Dieser enorme Erfahrungsschatz des kompetenten Expertenteams ist für Patienten von größtem Wert.

Gegründet wurde FirstMed Services von Eszter Jopp, die Geschäftsführerin und weltweit gefragte MedizintourismusExpertin ist. „Unser Expertenteam am Telefon, unsere erfahrenen Fachärzte in Ungarn und die Partner-Zahnärzte in Deutschland sorgen für eine maßgeschneiderte Beratung, kontinuierlich hohe Qualität und Kundenzufriedenheit bei der Behandlung”, erzählt Jopp. Sechs Partnerzahnkliniken – viele davon TÜV- oder TEMOS-zertifiziert – mit deutschsprachigen Fachärzten an verschiedenen Standorten in Ungarn arbeiten vertrauensvoll mit FirstMed Services zusammen.

Eine klare Transparenz bei allen Angeboten und Leistungen, ohne versteckte Kosten, ist selbstverständlich. „Durch-

schnittlich sparen Patienten, die sich für eine Behandlung bei Zahnklinik-Ungarn. de oder Dental Travel entscheiden trotz Reise- und Übernachtungskosten ungefähr die Hälfte der Kosten, die sie in ihrem Heimatland für eine gleichwertige Behandlung bezahlen würden“, erklärt Jopp. „Außerdem wissen die Patienten die Behandlungsqualität in ungarischen Zahnkliniken zu schätzen. Ungarn war das erste Land mit einem eigenen Studienfach Zahnmedizin.“ Vom ersten Beratungsgespräch bis zum Ende der Behandlung und Nachsorge, steht das Team von Zahnklinik-Ungarn.de und Dental Travel den Patienten zur Seite. Nicht nur die Verwendung modernster Technik und Materialien, sondern auch die präzise Planung und Ausführung sorgt für zufriedene Kunden. Ungarn ist außerdem extrem gut erreichbar – monatlich behandelt der Marktführer mehr als 250 Patienten aus Deutschland und der Schweiz. Die Tendenz ist steigend und bei so vielen klaren Vorteilen ist das keine Überraschung.

Mehr Informationen unter: www.zahnklinik-ungarn.de www.dentaltravel.ch

S P E C I A L T H E M E : T H E PAT H T O B E C O M I N G PA R E N T S – THE EXPERTS FOR ENDOCRINOLOGY AND REPRODUCTIVE MEDICINE

When nature needs a little help For many of us, having children is a natural progression of life. But sometimes, nature needs a little bit of help, and fortunately, there are plenty of modern procedures available to support the path to pregnancy. We introduce you to today’s specialists for reproductive medicine.

PHOTOS: PIXABAY

Issue 70 | January 2019 | 49

Discover Germany | Special Theme | The Path to Becoming Parents – The Experts for Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine

Dr. Arvind Chandra.

Photo: © Andreas Körner

Photo: © Masterfile

Focus seal.

TEXT: MARILENA STRACKE

High pregnancy rates and a lot of empathy

Hohe Schwangerschaftsraten und viel Sensibilität

At the Deutsche Klinik Bad Münder, Dr. Arvind Chandra and his team help more couples than average to longwanted pregnancies. Recently, the experienced physician of reproductive medicine was named as one of Germany’s Top Physicians in the field by the renowned Focus news magazine.

An der Deutschen Klinik Bad Münder verhilft Dr. Arvind Chandra zusammen mit seinem Team überdurchschnittlich vielen Paaren zu langersehnten Schwangerschaften. Kürzlich wurde der erfahrene Reproduktionsmediziner vom Nachrichtenmagazin Focus dafür als einer der Top-Mediziner Deutschlands ausgezeichnet.

For over 30 years, the practice at the Deutsche Klinik in idyllic Bad Münder, has focused on reproductive medicine: and you can feel that immediately. The comprehensive consultation is not only very personal but also stands out as being very empathetic.

Seit über 30 Jahren widmet sich die Praxis an der Deutschen Klinik im idyllischen Bad Münder der reproduktiven Medizin: Und das spürt man. Die ausführliche Beratung ist nicht nur sehr persönlich, sondern auch von großem Verständnis geprägt.

Many members of the medical team have suffered from pregnancy issues themselves and have become parents thanks to fertility treatments. “This means there is a large amount of empathy regarding the situation of our patients,” Dr. Arvind Chandra adds. “We take our patients’ worries seriously and discuss together which path to pregnancy is most suitable for them.”

Viele der ärztlichen Mitarbeiter waren selbst von ungewollter Kinderlosigkeit betroffen und sind über eine Kinderwunschbehandlung Eltern geworden. „Das führt zu einem hohen Maß an Einfühlungsvermögen in die Situation unserer Patienten“, fügt der sympathische Dr. Chandra hinzu. „Wir nehmen ihre Sorgen ernst und besprechen gemeinsam den für sie am besten geeigneten Weg zum Wunschkind.“

Aside from the caring consultation, the practice also convinces with its outstanding pregnancy rate of over 40 per cent. As well as the well-established methods, the team uses the ‘single embryo transfer’ procedure to avoid risky multiple pregnancies. In Germany, this method is still fairly new, but it is widely used in Scandinavia. It results in a pregnancy rate of up to 50 per cent per transfer, while excessive fertilised eggs can be frozen.

Neben der fürsorglichen Betreuung überzeugt vor allem die überdurchschnittlich hohe Schwangerschaftsrate von 40 Prozent. Neben den fest etablierten Methoden nutzt das Team das ‚Single Embryo Transfer‘-Verfahren, das risikoreiche Mehrlingsschwangerschaften verhindert. In Deutschland ist diese Methode noch relativ neu, während sie in Skandinavien bereits häufig durchgeführt wird. Sie ermöglicht eine Schwangerschaftsrate von bis zu 50 Prozent pro Transfer. Überzählige befruchtete Eizellen können eingefroren werden.

Dr. Chandra and his team combine sensitivity and innovation with years of experience. At the practice in Bad Münder as well as at the branch in Hanover’s city centre, patients are always in very good hands.

Dr. Chandra und sein Team kombinieren Feingefühl und Innovationsgeist mit langjähriger Erfahrung. Patienten sind in der Praxis in Bad Münder und in der Zweigpraxis in der Hannoverschen Innenstadt in allerbesten Händen.

Phone: (+49) 05042 940-360/-361 kinderwunsch@amedes-group.com

50 | Issue 70 | January 2019

www.kinderwunsch.com

Discover Germany | Special Theme | The Path to Becoming Parents – The Experts for Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine

Dr. med. Birgit Lühr

Photo: © Kostia / Fotolia

TEXT: MARILENA STRACKE I PHOTO: FREYJA IVF HAGEN

The gentle way to having a baby via IVF/ ICSI

Sanft und schonend zur Schwangerschaft mit IVF/ ICSI

The fertility clinic Freyja IVF Hagen offers the whole range of common fertility treatments and is specialised in a gentle form of in vitro fertilisation within the natural or minimally stimulated cycle. The experienced team around founder-duo Dr. med.

Birgit Lühr and Dr. rer. nat. Reza Soleimani applies a holistic approach to fertility and offers accompanying natural medicine therapies.

Das Kinderwunschzentrum Freyja IVF Hagen hat sich neben den gängigen Kinderwunschtherapien auf die künstliche Befruchtung im natürlichen oder sanft unterstützten Zyklus spezialisiert. Das erfahrene Team um Gründer-Duo Dr. med. Birgit Lühr und Dr. rer. nat. Reza Soleimani folgt beim Thema Reproduktionsmedizin einem ganzheitlichen Ansatz und bietet begleitende naturheilkundliche Therapien an.

The team at Freyja IVF Hagen puts an emphasis on holistic approaches and realises fertility treatments as gentle and as effective as possible for each couple individually. Hence, they do not just offer only the common methods but also IVF/ ICSI in the natural or mildly stimulated cycle.

Im Kinderwunschzentrum Freyja IVF Hagen setzt man auf eine holistische Herangehensweise und versucht den Kinderwunsch so schonend und effektiv wie möglich für jedes Paar individuell zu realisieren. So werden nicht nur die gängigen Methoden angeboten, sondern auch die künstliche Befruchtung im natürlichen oder sanft unterstützten Zyklus.

“This kind of treatment requires only minimal use of hormones, is closer to the natural menstruation cycle and significantly cheaper than the common therapies,” Dr. med. Birgit Lühr explains. “Practising IVF in this way is particularly suitable for women who don’t want to burden their bodies with high-dose hormone stimulation.”

„Dieses Verfahren ist sehr hormonarm, schonend und deutlich günstiger“, erklärt Dr. med. Birgit Lühr. „Gerade für Frauen, die ihren Körper nicht mit einer hochdosierten Hormontherapie belasten möchten, ist diese sanfte Form der künstlichen Befruchtung besonders geeignet.“

This method is distinctively more cost-effective than the classic therapies, it interferes less with the woman’s own hormonal balance and the egg retrieval can be done without anaesthesia – clear advantages. This method can sometimes even help when the classic stimulation protocols have not led to pregnancy so far.

“You cannot treat every woman the same way,” says Dr. Lühr. “The menstrual cycle has to be observed very carefully. The mild therapies demand flexibility from the fertility specialist due to each woman’s individual rhythm, which takes centre-stage here.”

It is worth attending one of the monthly information evenings. Different methods are explained, and couples can get a first impression of the clinic. For those looking for a holistic approach to in-vitro-fertilisation, Dr. Lühr is the right choice.

Die Vorteile sind, dass diese Art der Therapie deutlich kostengünstiger ist als klassische Behandlungen, weniger in den Hormonhaushalt eingegriffen wird und sogar eine Eizellentnahme ohne Narkose möglich ist. Manchmal kann dieses Verfahren auch dann helfen, wenn andere Verfahren bisher nicht zum gewünschten Erfolg geführt haben. „Man kann nicht jede Frau gleich behandeln“, sagt Dr. Lühr. „Der Zyklus muss sehr genau beobachtet werden. Die Behandlung erfordert viel Flexibilität von Seiten der Ärzte, denn sie ist aufgrund des individuellen Rhythmus jeder Frau, die hier im Mittelpunkt steht, weniger planbar.“

Information evenings 2019: 08/01, 12/02, 12/03, 09/04, 14/05, 11/06 Please register for your place. www.kinderwunsch-hagen.de

Es lohnt sich einen der monatlich stattfindenden Info-Abende zu besuchen. Dort werden die verschiedenen Verfahren erklärt und Paare bekommen einen ersten Eindruck des Zentrums. Wer einen ganzheitlichen Weg bei der künstlichen Befruchtung sucht, ist bei Dr. Lühr bestens aufgehoben.

Issue 70 | January 2019 | 51

Discover Germany | Special Theme | The Path to Becoming Parents – The Experts for Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine

Photo: © Shutterstock

The team at Ceres Kinderwunschzentrum Berlin.

TEXT: MARILENA STRACKE I PHOTOS: CERES KINDERWUNSCHZENTRUM BERLIN

Every woman is a goddess

Jede Frau ist eine Göttin

Ceres is not only the goddess of fertility, but has also lent her name to Ceres Kinderwunschzentrum Berlin. The desire to have a child is one of the strongest emotions we carry in us, regardless if we are in a relationship or single. At Ceres, everyone is welcome, including same-sex couples and single women.

Ceres ist nicht nur die Göttin der Fruchtbarkeit sondern auch Namensgeberin des Ceres Kinderwunschzentrums in Berlin. Der Wunsch nach einem eigenen Kind ist eines der stärksten Gefühle, die wir in uns tragen, ganz egal ob wir uns in einer Partnerschaft befinden oder derzeit alleinstehend sind. Bei Ceres ist jeder willkommen, selbstverständlich auch gleichgeschlechtliche Paare und Single Frauen.

Ceres Kinderwunschzentrum Berlin has been an expert for 20 years in the diagnosis and treatment to help satisfy the unfulfilled wish to have a child. The centre’s owners, Dr. Reinhard Hannen and Dr. Christian F. Stoll, are supported by an empathetic and highly motivated team of nurses and biologists.

Das Ceres Kinderwunschzentrum Berlin verfügt über eine 20–jährige Expertise in der Diagnostik und Therapie des unerfüllten Kinderwunsches. Hierbei werden die Zentrumsinhaber Dr. Reinhard Hannen und Dr. Christian F. Stoll von einem emphathischen und hochmotivierten Team von Schwestern und Biologinnen unterstützt.

Excellent up-to-date technical facilities and the certified expertise of the biologists continuously secure pregnancy rates above the average. A special focus lies on the clarification and treatment of patients with a history of failed fertility therapies. Here, special methods such as IMSI or a comprehensive evaluation of their immune system will be considered. “Those are areas we specialised in and that’s where we go deeper,” Dr. Stoll adds.

Exzellente technische Ausstattung auf dem neuesten Stand und die zertifizierte Expertise der Biologinnen sichern durchgehend überdurchschnittliche Schwangerschaftsraten. Ein besonderer Schwerpunkt liegt dabei auf der Abklärung und Therapie von sogenannten Implantationsversagern, das bedeutet, dass bisherige Behandlungsversuche erfolglos geblieben sind. Hierbei werden dann auch Spezialmethoden wie IMSI oder aber zum Beispiel eine umfassende Immunabklärung hinzugezogen. „Das sind Gebiete, auf die wir uns spezialisiert haben und dort gehen wir in die Tiefe“, fügt Dr. Stoll hinzu.

Despite the many technical aspects, at Ceres, great importance is placed on personal support with a lot of heart and empathy.

As an international fertility clinic, everyone speaks English there.

“Of course, we treat single women and same-sex couples,” says Dr. Stoll. “We follow the motto ‘Love knows know boundaries’ – even if that sounds a little clichéd.”

Years of experience, top technical facilities and a lot of individual sensitivity results in excellent pregnancy rates at Ceres Kinderwunschzentrum Berlin.

52 | Issue 70 | January 2019

Großer Wert wird bei Ceres trotz der vielen technischen Aspekte auf eine Betreuung mit Herz und Empathie gelegt. Als internationales Kinderwunschzentrum ist Englisch für jeden Mitarbeiter selbstverständlich. „Wir behandeln natürlich auch alleinstehende Frauen und gleichgeschlechtliche Paare“, erzählt Dr. Stoll. „Für uns gilt das Motto ‚Liebe kennt keine Grenzen‘ – auch wenn das vielleicht etwas kitschig klingen mag.“

www.kinderwunschzentrum.de info@kinderwunschzentrum.de +49 (0) 30 / 26 39 83 – 0

Jahrelange Erfahrung, beste technische Ausstattung und viel individuelles Einfühlungsvermögen führen im Ceres Kinderwunschzentrum Berlin zu exzellenten Schwangerschaftsraten.

S P E C I A L T H E M E : G E R M A N Y ’ S S U C C E S S F U L S TA R T- U P S

Innovation as far as the eye can see Start-ups are the future. Thinking outside the box and taking that leap of faith to build a business on a new idea takes intelligence, courage and passion. On the following pages we introduce you to Germany’s successful start-ups.

PHOTOS: PIXABAY

Issue 70 | January 2019 | 53

Discover Germany | Special Theme | Germany’s Successful Start-ups

Founder Philipp Kadelbach in a conversation.

TEXT: NANE STEINHOFF I PHOTOS: FLIGHTRIGHT GMBH

Compensation made easy

Entschädigung leicht gemacht

Many passengers end up in a situation at the airport where their plans are thrown overboard, as their flight is either delayed by several hours or cancelled altogether. If passengers then try to claim their rightful compensation on their own, many airlines make it very difficult, or often downright refuse. This is where Flightright comes in. The company pursues claims for affected passengers, based on the EU’s air passengers rights regulation.

Nicht wenige Passagiere müssen am Flughafen feststellen, dass ihre Reisepläne über den Haufen geworfen werden, weil ihr Flug um mehrere Stunden verspätet ist oder ganz ausfällt. Versuchen Passagiere im Anschluss selbst die ihnen hierfür zustehende Entschädigung einzufordern, blocken viele Airlines ab. Hier hilft Flightright. Das Unternehmen setzt Entschädigungsansprüche betroffener Passagiere auf Basis der EU-Fluggastrechteverordnung durch.

When trying to get compensation for a cancellation, Flightright founder and lawyer Philipp Kadelbach had to experience the stubbornness of airlines for himself. Here, the idea for Flightright was born – an online-based legal service for everyone. Since it was founded, the company has enforced countless compensation claims and strengthened passenger rights by pushing through leading court decisions.

Als Flightright Gründer und Jurist Philipp Kadelbach versuchte, für seinen annullierten Flug Entschädigung zu bekommen, musste er erleben wie stur Airlines sich stellen. Hieraus entstand die Idee zu Flightright - einer online-basierten Rechtsdienstleistung. Seit Bestehen konnte Flightright bereits unzählige Entschädigungsansprüche durchsetzen und durch wichtige Grundsatzurteile merklich dazu beitragen, die Rechte von Fluggästen europaweit zu stärken.

Every passenger is entitled to compensation according to EU Entschädigungsberechtigt ist grundsätzlich jeder Passagier - egal ob Urregulations: including tourists, children with a seat and busi- lauber, Kind mit eigenem Sitzplatz oder Geschäftsreisender, dessen Flug ness travellers, whose flight was paid for by their employers. The vom Arbeitgeber bezahlt wurde. Die Höhe des Entschädigungsanspruchs compensation amount depends on the flight distance and not ist von der Flugstrecke und nicht vom Ticketpreis abhängig und beträgt the ticket price and can either be 250, 400 or 600 euros. Travellers 250, 400 oder 600 Euro je nach Distanz. Über die Flightright Website can check their right to compensation on the Flightright website können Fluggäste ihren Entschädigungsanspruch in wenigen Schritten – easy, quick and for free. After commissioning, Flightright takes kostenlos prüfen lassen. Nach Beauftragung übernimmt Flightright die over the entire communication process and legal dispute with gesamte Kommunikation und juristische Auseinandersetzung mit der the airline. If airlines try to circumvent the payment of com- Airline. Versuchen Fluggesellschaften die Entschädigungszahlung zu umpensation in some other way, the passenger gehen, geht das Fluggastrechtportal für seine Kunden rights portal even goes to court. This way, auch bis vor Gericht. Flightright bringt Passagiere Voucher code for readers: Flightright puts passengers on an eye level so auf Augenhöhe mit Airlines und verhilft ihnen zu Did you know that according to German with the airlines and helps them to obtain ihrem Recht. Das Beste: Die Erfolgsprovision wird law you can enforce your claim up to three years after your flight? With the voucher their rights. And arguably the best element nur fällig, wenn die Fluggasthelfer für ihre Kunden code DISCOVERGERMANY you can of it all: the fee only becomes due when erfolgreich sind. save 15 euros on Flightright’s success Flightright has been successful for their commission. (Valid until 31 March 2019) clients. www.flightright.de, www.flightright.com 54 | Issue 70 | January 2019

Discover Germany | Special Theme | Germany’s Successful Start-ups

TEXT: MARILENA STRACKE I PHOTOS: GETAWAY

Spontaneously rent out or hire cars from next door

Autos von nebenan spontan mieten und vermieten

A new app is taking the market by storm: GETAWAY makes it possible to easily rent out your private car for any time frame, regardless of when or where – and without having to hand over keys. If you are curious, just download the app and check how much your car could earn.

Eine neue App erobert den Markt: GETAWAY macht es möglich, sein Privatauto für einen beliebigen Zeitraum bequem zu vermieten, egal wann und wo – ohne lästige Schüsselübergabe.

Wer neugierig geworden ist, kann die App herunterladen und unverbindlich prüfen, wie viel sein Auto verdienen kann.

A car only moves around 45 minutes per day. The rest of the time it is parked, often while still costing money. With GETAWAY, owners can easily rent out their cars through their mobiles and compensate the maintenance cost. In order to keep both car owners and users safe, the whole thing is insured, and participating cars have a SafetyKit installed by a GETWAWAY-technician.

Ein Auto wird durchschnittlich nur 45 Minuten am Tag bewegt. In der restlichen Zeit steht es still und verursacht Kosten. Mit GETAWAY können Besitzer ihr Auto in dieser Zeit über ihr Handy vermieten und so die Haltungskosten kompensieren. Damit sowohl Autobesitzer als auch die Nutzer abgesichert sind, ist das Ganze natürlich versichert und teilnehmende Pkws werden einmalig durch einen GETAWAY-Techniker mit einem SafetyKit ausgestattet.

“Equipped like that, the car can be put into carsharing-modus for any time frame simply through the mobile,” founder Edgar Scholler explains. “During that time, verified and insured users can immediately start driving, and the price per kilometre has been pre-set by the owner. Car keys and petrol card are kept in the glove compartment and each rental is completed at the starting point.”

„So ausgerüstet kann das Auto bei jedem Parkvorgang für beliebige Zeiträume über das Handy in den Carsharing-Modus geschaltet werden“, erklärt Gründer Edgar Scholler. „In diesem Zeitraum können es verifizierte und versicherte Nutzer über die App öffnen und zum vom Autobesitzer selbst festgelegten Kilometerpreis sofort losfahren. Autoschlüssel und Tankkarte liegen im Handschuhfach bereit. Beendet wird die Fahrt wieder am ursprünglichen Anmietort.“

With this idea, Scholler wants to free cities from parked cars and give everyone access to sustainable and affordable individual mobility. The concept is paying off and received the German Mobility Award 2018 by BMVI. Currently there are over 100 participating vehicles in Berlin, Hamburg, Essen and Magdeburg, and soon, GETAWAY might well become part of our normal daily lives.

Mit dieser Idee will Scholler Städte von parkenden Autos befreien und jedem den Zugang zu nachhaltiger und bezahlbarer Individualmobilität ermöglichen. Das Konzept schlägt an und wurde von BMVI mit dem Deutschen Mobilitätspreis 2018 prämiert. Aktuell sind über 100 Fahrzeuge in Berlin, Hamburg, Essen und Magdeburg unterwegs und bald wird GETAWAY sicherlich zu unserem ganz normalen Alltag dazugehören. www.getaway.app Issue 70 | January 2019 | 55

Discover Germany | Special Theme | Germany’s Successful Start-ups

The JIMDO team.

The JIMDO founders: Christian Springub, Fridtjof Detzner and Matthias Henze (from left to right).

TEXT: NANE STEINHOFF I PHOTOS: JIMDO GMBH

Building a website – made easy

Website erstellen - leicht gemacht

Can you really build a beautiful, professional website without any coding experience? Yes, you can! With Jimdo.

The Hamburg-based company is the world’s leading website builder with more than 20 million websites created worldwide. With the latest release of their new product, Jimdo hopes to empower entrepreneurs, freelancers and small businesses with a stunning website that helps them to succeed online.

Kannst du eine professionelle Website ohne ProgrammierungsKentnisse erstellen? Kannst du! Mit Jimdo. Das Unternehmen aus Hamburg ist mit über 20 Millionen weltweit kreierten Websites der weltweit führende Website-Builder. Mit der jüngsten Veröffentlichung ihres neuen Produktes will Jimdo Unternehmer, Selbstständige und Kleinunternehmen mit schönen Websites versorgen und ihnen dabei helfen, online erfolgreich zu sein.

Jimdo was founded in 2007 by Fridtjof Detzner, Christian Springub and Matthias Henze – without capital but with an entirely new idea back then: making it really easy for small businesses to get a great online presence. Today, Jimdo continues to innovate the industry, making it even easier to create one’s own website.

Gegründet wurde Jimdo 2007 von Fridtjof Detzner, Christian Springub und Matthias Henze – ohne Kapital, aber mit einer damals völlig neuen Idee: Es Kleinunternehmen wirklich einfach zu machen, eine tolle Online-Präsenz zu erhalten. Heute innoviert Jimdo weiterhin die Branche und macht es noch einfacher, seine eigene Website zu gestalten.

Jimdo’s new generation website builder can help you create a website in minutes by asking questions about your goals, sourcing your business information from Google and social media.

The structure, text, photos, and all the extras you might need for your business are all set; you can change things around as you like afterwards. Once you are online, Jimdo continues to help with promoting and improving your website. After all, it is not just about making a great website, but also about making it successful.

The best thing is that the cost includes a custom domain, hosting, security, support, and other things that would cost extra if you hired an agency. Once your website is up and running, you are all set. Jimdo helps to save time – so you can focus on running your business.

56 | Issue 70 | January 2019

Durch das Abfragen deiner Ziele und die Informationsbeschaffung über dein Unternehmen durch Google oder soziale Medien, hilft Jimdos neuer Website-Builder dir dabei, in Minutenschnelle eine Website zu kreieren.

Die Aufteilung, Textelemente, Fotos und alle Extras, die du für dein Unternehmen gebrauchen könntest, werden festgelegt; du kannst danach alles verändern, wie du möchtest. Sobald du online bist, hilft dir Jimdo weiterhin deine Website zu verbessern. Immerhin kommt es nicht nur darauf an eine schöne Website herzustellen, sondern sie auch erfolgreich zu machen.

Das Beste ist, dass die Kosten die Domain, Hosting, Sicherheit, Support und andere Dinge beinhalten, die bei einer Agentur extra kosten würden.

Sobald deine Website aufgestellt ist, bist du startklar. Jimdo hilft dir Zeit zu sparen, sodass du dich auf dein Unternehmen konzentrieren kannst.

Besuche die folgende Website und probiere Jimdo aus – kostenlos! www.jimdo.com

Discover Germany | Special Theme | Germany’s Successful Start-ups

Teamwork is the heart and soul of Personio.

Every day, the product-team at Personio continuously develops the software further.

The four Personio-founders (from left to right): Ignaz Forstmeier, Hanno Renner, Roman Schumacher and Arseniy Vershinin.

Personio:

The affordable all-in-one solution for HR and recruitment

TEXT: MARILENA STRACKE I PHOTOS: PERSONIO

Administrative tasks in the world of HR and recruitment are often tedious and time-consuming. The founders of Munich-based start-up Personio recognised this and developed a holistic HR Management software that digitises and hence speeds up these complex processes.

Founded in 2015 by Hanno Renner, Ignaz Forstmeier, Roman Schumacher, Arseniy Vershinin and later on Jonas Rieke, Personio is a dream come true for staff working in Human Resources and recruitment. The young start-up has quickly turned from an idea amongst a group of students to a company employing a team of over 130 people.

Two investment rounds, the second earning 12 million US-dollars, ensured that Personio can keep developing and refining its product in alignment with market requirements. Over 900 customers are already using the innovative software and enjoy a simplified and more efficient digitised personnel management work-flow.

Especially small and medium-sized companies with 10 to 1,000 employees benefit from the incredibly adaptable software.

58 | Issue 70 | January 2019

Several aspects such as access rights, approval procedures or sections of the digital personnel file can be customised individually through the user interface.

Recurring processes such as holiday confirmations can be automated, which saves a lot of time.

“With our software, we help companies to digitise and simplify their HR processes and cover processes around the employee life cycle,” says co-founder and CEO, Hanno Renner.“This includes creating job listings and managing applicants as well as employee management and employee development.”

The digital nature also allows the option to easily post an individualised job listing on over 350 job portals or efficiently manage holiday time – to name but a few of the incorporated features, which ease the HR

management workload with the simple click of a button.

The software creates more transparency for employees as digital files can be easily accessed and edited by themselves – which saves a lot of time for employees and HR. As Personio brings all personnel processes into one place, there is no more switching back and forth between email accounts, Excel and other applications.

“Many companies appreciate that we unite various HR processes, relevant to smaller and medium-sized businesses, in one software,” Renner adds. “We also maintain high data protection standards. All data is saved on ISO-certified servers in Germany, with back-ups in different locations.”

An outstanding customer service completes the Personio-experience. From implementing the software to ongoing support, the team at Personio is always ready to help its clients. www.personio.com/discovergermany

SPECIAL THEME: SMART HOME TRENDS 2019

Simplify your life Smart home solutions, also known as connected home solutions, are omnipresent. Through the use of modern automation systems, they provide practical ways to control various electronic devices in one’s home and thus, significantly simplify one’s life. In the following special theme, we take a look at some of the smart home sector’s top innovators.

PHOTOS: PIXABAY

Issue 70 | January 2019 | 59 Issue 70 | January 2019 | 59

Discover Germany | Special Theme | Smart Home Trends 2019

Jede Menge Flexibilität bei der Videoüberwachung mit dem kabellosen Sicherheitskamera-Set von D-Link In kleinen Büros, Geschäften oder für das Zuhause ist das mydlink™ Pro WireFree Camera Kit DCS-2802KT-EU von D-Link eine echte Hilfe. Mit Akku-Betrieb und WLAN-Verbindung bieten die Kameras flexible Überwachung und können dank des wetterfesten Gehäuses problemlos sowohl im Innen- als auch im Außenbereich eingesetzt werden.

TEXT: MARILENA STRACKE I FOTOS: D-LINK

Das Kit besteht aus zwei wieder aufladbaren Kameras und einem Hub, der bis zu vier Kameras unterstützt. Im Gegensatz zu herkömmlichen Kameras, die über ein Kabel mit Strom versorgt werden, lassen sich Modelle mit Akku-Betrieb flexibel positionieren. Bis zu sechs Monate halten die Kameras aus dem D-Link Kit ohne erneutes Aufladen der Lithium-Akkus.

Die neuen Sicherheitskameras von D-Link, welche eine detailreiche Full HD-Auflösung von 1920 x 1080 Pixeln bieten, bestechen sofort mit ihrer kabellosen Flexibilität. Dank der magnetischen Wand- und Deckenhalterungen lässt sich der Blickwinkel der Kameras bei Bedarf mühelos neu ausrichten. Soll spontan das Geschehen an einem anderen Ort – beispielsweise das Spielen der Kinder 60 | Issue 70 | January 2019

im Garten – im Auge behalten werden, so nimmt der Nutzer die Kamera ab und platziert sie dort, wo er sie benötigt.

Das wetterfeste Gehäuse, die Nachtsichtfunktion und der 140 Grad Blickwinkel ermöglichen es größere Bereiche rund um die Uhr zu behalten – sowohl draußen als auch drinnen. Wird eine Bewegung erkannt, kann man sich sofort benachrichtigen lassen. Das dazugehörige Video wird entweder in einem personalisierten Cloud-Speicher oder lokal auf einer MicroSD-Karte beziehungsweise USB-Festplatte gespeichert.

Bei einem Kauf des SicherheitskameraSets bekommen Kunden ein 12-monatiges Premium-Abo für Cloud-Aufzeichnung dazu: damit können Nutzer unbegrenzt

viele Videos von bis zu fünf Kameras für zwei Wochen speichern, ohne dass ihnen zusätzliche Kosten entstehen. Dies ist ideal für Laden- oder Imbissbesitzer, die eine Zeitlang verreisen. Nach einem Jahr können sie das Abo verlängern oder ein anderes wählen.

Genauso einfach lassen sich auch Ferienhäuser via Smartphone aus der Ferne überwachen und gegebenenfalls Maßnahmen einleiten. Aufzeichnungen kann der Anwender jederzeit und von überall per Internet aus der Cloud abspielen oder auf ein Mobilgerät herunterladen.

Die D-Link Kameras sind mit Amazon Alexa sowie Google Assistant kompatibel und lassen sich mit einem Amazon Fire TV- oder Google Chromecast-Stick nutzen. Ein Sprachbefehl wie beispielsweise ‚Alexa, zeige Haustür‘ ruft das entsprechende Kamerabild auf das TV-Gerät.

Das Kit mit den kabellosen Sicherheitskameras ist eben extrem vielseitig.

eu.dlink.com/de

Discover Germany | Special Theme | Smart Home Trends 2019

Intelligent lighting control.

Magenta SmartHome.

Central control unit.

More comfort at home with Magenta SmartHome.

TEXT: MARILENA STRACKE I PHOTOS: DEUTSCHE TELEKOM

Bringing the future home

Die Zukunft nachhause holen

Your favourite place on earth can now become even comfier and safer with SmartHome – your home. If you come home after a long day, thanks to SmartHome you are welcomed with the lights on and a cosy temperature. The heating turns itself down as soon as the windows are opened, and you can also keep an eye on your home from afar. The Magenta SmartHome system by Deutsche Telekom goes the extra mile and bundles over 300 different devices from various manufacturers on just one platform. In 2018, it was named best SmartHome all-in-one system by the connect reader’s choice.

Es ist der schönste Ort der Welt, der mit SmartHome einfacher, schöner und sicherer wird – ihr Zuhause. Wenn man nach einem langen Tag heimkommt, empfängt das Zuhause einen dank SmartHome beleuchtet und mit Wohlfühltemperatur. Die Heizung fährt herunter, sobald das Fenster geöffnet wird und auch aus der Ferne kann man sein Zuhause immer im Blick haben und sehen, ob daheim alles in Ordnung ist. Das Magenta SmartHome-System der deutschen Telekom unterstützt das intelligente Zuhause indem es mehr als 300 verschiedene Geräte unterschiedlicher Hersteller auf nur einer Plattform bündelt. 2018 wurde es von der connect Leserwahl als bestes SmartHome-Komplettsystem ausgezeichnet.

Security, energy efficiency and comfort in one: Magenta SmartHome allows users to control different devices from one single platform. Hence, customers are not tied to single providers or radio standards. Well-known partners such as Miele, Sonos, Osram, Philips etc. are represented on the platform. This means that, for example, radiators and lights as well as speakers can be operated from afar, and personal presence can be simulated even when nobody is at home.

Sicherheit, Energieeffizienz und Komfort in einem: Magenta SmartHome ermöglicht die Steuerung verschiedenster Geräte von einer einzigen Plattform aus. Kunden sind dadurch nicht an einen einzelnen Anbieter oder Funkstandard gebunden. Namhafte Partner wie Miele, Sonos, Osram, Philipps usw. sind auf der Plattform vertreten. So lässt sich z.B. Heizung und Licht aber auch Lautsprecher aus der Ferne steuern und Anwesenheit simulieren, auch wenn man nicht zuhause ist.

Magenta SmartHome is easily installed without hammer, handyman or drill and it can be used by anyone, also without a Telekom connection. And if there are any questions, the customer service team is locally available or online and on the phone − thanks to the supra-regional distribution structure.

Magenta SmartHome can be operated from a smartphone or simply by voice. It has been developed strictly following the German Data Protection Directive. Data transfers only happen through a completely secured tunnel between Telekom servers and the central control unit at home (router or home base).

Magenta SmartHome ist einfach umzusetzen, kann von jedem, auch ohne Telekomanschluss, genutzt werden und ist obendrein ganz einfach zu installieren – ohne Hammer, Handwerker oder Bohrmaschine. Und sollten man doch einmal eine Frage haben, ist der Kundenservice, dank der überregionalen Vertriebsstruktur, vor Ort oder online und telefonisch erreichbar.

Magenta SmartHome lässt sich per Smartphone steuern oder ganz einfach per Sprachassistent. Es wurde komplett nach deutschen Datenschutzrichtlinien konzipiert. Der Datentransfer erfolgt über einen gesicherten Tunnel zwischen den Servern der Telekom und der zentralen Steuerungseinheit zuhause (Router oder Home Base).

Mit Magenta SmartHome ist man zuhause rundum gut aufgehoben.

With Magenta SmartHome, your home is always in good hands. www.smarthome.de Issue 70 | January 2019 | 61

CIDEON – das sind 25 Jahre Erfahrung in der Optimierung von Engineering-Prozessen.

CIDEON – das ist jede Menge Potenzial zur Digitalisierung Ihrer technischen Prozessketten.

CIDEON – das ist Begeisterung für individuelle Lösungen der Prozessoptimierung.

Unsere Partner:

62 | Issue 70 | January 2019

Wir reden nicht nur von Digitalisierung – wir setzen sie um!

Issue 70 | January 2019 | 63

EXCLUSIVE BUSINESS PROFILES

Meet the DACH region’s innovators The DACH region has a lot to offer when it comes to innovative businesses and start-up companies. In the following special theme, we take a look at some of the great ideas and ventures the region has brought forward lately.

PHOTOS: PIXABAY

64 | Issue 70 | January 2019

Discover Germany | Exclusive Business Profiles | Focus on Smart Robotics and Automation Technology

Left: SCHUNK’s Co-act JL1 gripper recognises an approaching human with its sensory aura and automatically shifts into a lower gear. Middle: Collaboration also means communication: A LED belt signals the respective operating status at the DGUV-certified SCHUNK Co-act EGP-C gripper system. Right: Thanks to artificial intelligence, this SCHUNK SVH 5-finger hand can identify different objects at an arbitrary position and autonomously develop and apply relevant gripping strategies.

TEXT: SCHUNK I PHOTOS: SCHUNK

Service robotics – at your service

Servicerobotik - Zu Diensten

Particularly since the success of vacuum and lawn mower robots, wearables and voice-controlled virtual assistants, the world of service robotics has experienced a real boost. Its fan base is growing rapidly and so too are the possible fields of applications. During the 11th Expert Days on Service Robotics, from 27 to 28 February, under the motto ‘Towards Open Robotics’, the specialist for gripping systems and clamping technology SCHUNK will show which technologies are moving into the spotlight and which robots will become part of private and corporate daily life.

Spätestens seit dem Siegeszug von Saug- und RasenmäherRobotern, Wearables und Sprachassistenten erlebt die ServiceRobotik einen regelrechten Schub. Die Fangemeinde wächst rasant und mit ihr die möglichen Einsatzfelder. Unter dem Motto ‚Towards Open Robotics‘ zeigt der Greifsystem- und Spanntechnikspezialist SCHUNK vom 27. bis 28. Februar auf den elften Expert Days on Service Robotics, welche Technologien in den Fokus rücken und wie Roboter künftig den privaten und beruflichen Alltag begleiten werden.

The range of topics is very diverse at the interdisciplinary symposium, which is held at the European service robotichotspot, Odense in Denmark, for the first time. From humanrobot collaborations, humanoid components and cloud robotics to micro and bio robots – this event appeals to scientists and technologists as well as industrial companies and start-ups, but also to humanities scholars, social scientists, financial companies and investors.

Das Themenspektrum des interdisziplinären Symposiums, das erstmals am europäischen Servicerobotik-Hotspot Odense in Dänemark stattfindet, ist vielfältig. Es reicht von der Mensch-Roboter-Kollaboration über humanoide Komponenten und die Cloud-Robotik bis hin zu Mikro- und Biorobotern. Angesprochen sind Forscher und Technologen ebenso wie Industrieunternehmen und Startups, aber auch Geistes- und Sozialwissenschaftler sowie Finanzunternehmen und Investoren.

Cobots, also Roboter die unmittelbar mit dem Menschen kollaborieren, Cobots, which are robots that collaborate directly with humans, versprechen großes Potenzial. So wächst die industrielle Servicerobotik promise great potential. Hence, the field of industrial service derzeit um 20 bis 25 Prozent pro Jahr. Ihre Stärken liegen vor allem in robotics is currently growing by 20 to 25 percent each year. Its der Wiederholung einfacher Handhabungstätigkeiten, wo sie oft schnelstrength lies primarily in the repetition of simple ler, ausdauernder und exakter arbeiten als der Mensch. Die handling tasks, in which field the robots often dafür erforderlichen Greifhände entwickelt SCHUNK – ein SCHUNK Expert Days work faster, longer and more precisely than huentscheidender Faktor, um Hand in Hand mit dem Roboter on Service Robotics: mans. SCHUNK develops gripper hands, required zu arbeiten.

27 and 28 February 2019, for automated handling and assembly – a key elOdense, Denmark ement for working hand in hand with the robots. www.schunk.com Issue 70 | January 2019 | 65

Discover Germany | Exclusive Business Profiles | Industrial Automation from Switzerland

Optimising processes using intelligent systems WERMA signal technology is the market leader in Europe, manufacturing optical and audible signal devices. The company has already established an industrysector standard with its range of modular signal towers and offers three easy-toretrofit solutions for process optimisation in general industry as well as logistics.

TEXT: JESSICA HOLZHAUSEN I PHOTO: WERMA

WERMA is an important innovator in the field of intelligent signal technology and today manufactures a wide range of optical and audible signal devices as well as intelligent systems for process optimisation for the general industry and logistics.

Through networking of intelligent signal devices, these systems enable customers to generate durable process optimisation measures together with analytical tools in manufacturing processes, logistics and material handling and manual workstation applications.

StockSAVER, for instance, implements a third-generation kanban system for production logistics. It monitors the stock levels of FIFO flow racks as a signal point in the logistics chain. The data is transmitted wirelessly and displayed in the software, which is supplied with the WERMA 66 | Issue 70 | January 2019

StockSAVER package. “StockSAVER provides automatic material replenishment requests and eliminates the margin for human error and the need for line-side safety stocks,” says WERMA sales director Winfried Huber. Companies using StockSAVER will gain greater transparency concerning stock levels, explains Huber, and therefore “enable a significant reduction in the requirement for safety stocks to be held there”.

The second system worth mentioning is the WERMA SmartMONITOR. It is a simple, wireless-based retrofit solution for signalling and analysing the entire production area. “Our system is a smart solution for industrial companies looking for a way to quickly and easily gather reliable data to optimise their manufacturing processes,” explains Christian Höhler, tech-

nical director at WERMA. It delivers all relevant data for machines, systems and manual workstations easily at the touch of a button. Through optimisation and reduced downtimes SmartMONITOR allows companies to tap into their so far unused potential for growth, making the business more competitive.

Last but not least, is AndonSPEED, an intelligent call-for-action system which enables companies to optimise their processes in logistics. Unlike a traditional simple andon light, the intelligent wireless system from WERMA not only signals the disruption visually, but also documents and analyses the status changes precisely. AndonSPEED is the perfect solution for logistic workstations. Status changes are transmitted wirelessly from the workstation to a central control appropriate response team. The effective signalisation allows solving problems quickly, which effectively leads to more output per hour.

Intelligent reports and analyses enable lasting improvements to be implemented. www.werma.com

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Discover Switzerland | Exclusive Business Profiles | Top Highlight of Technology 2019

Left: Alfapump®, intelligent implantable fluid pump (for inside the human body), Photo: © Sequana Medical AG, Middle: Optical Alignment of STIX-Detectors (for use in space), Photo: © Almatech AG, Right: Geophysical sensor network to measure permafrost (in the Swiss Alps), Photo: © ETH Zürich – Computer Engineering and Networks Laboratory [TIK].

The art of innovation The requirements of specialised electronic devices are complex. Zurich-based Art of Technology design and develop innovative solutions for an ever-growing number of challenging requirements and complexities.

TEXT: SILKE HENKELE

It is not easy to put Art of Technology’s expertise and scope of services into a few words. “Broadly speaking, we are an independent contract engineering company focusing on the design and development of electronic hardware and software systems for medical devices, intelligent implants, secure data communication systems, space-flight applications and other extreme environments, where exceptional reliability is required,” explains Rolf Schmid, managing director of Art of Technology. “We are also involved in commercial, industrial and European Research Projects (Horizon 2020) and actively support start-up companies and university projects, where budget and resources often tend to be rather more restricted.”

“Having successfully concluded projects covering a broad variety of areas,” he elaborates, “our team’s knowledge of diverse markets is substantial. With expertise covering the miniaturisation of systems, cost optimisation, low power electronics, power management, cryptography for secure data communication as well as analogue and digital electronics, we know exactly where to look and which questions to ask in order to find the best solution for our customers.”

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Speaking of the team: “The members of our team are highly qualified. They have profound academic backgrounds or have gained significant insights and understand the practical implications of our designs through their work in the respective industry.” It is this attractive melange of theory and practice that makes Art of Technology and their concepts particularly valuable for their customers. “When presenting a customer with a result, we always go for a practical, financially affordable and, above all, achievable solution,” stresses Schmid.

Art of Technology is currently involved in an array of fascinating projects: amongst them, a project for the European Space Agency (ESA) to characterise 3D-MID technologies for future space applications (3D-MID allows the integration of mechanical, electronic, optical and thermal functions into three-dimensional designs offering significant savings in size and weight, simply not possible with conventional electronic manufacturing methods), the redesign of an intelligent, implantable pump for patients suffering from type 1 diabetes and the design and development of a device for the early diagnosis of Cardiovascular Disease (CVD). Worthy causes indeed and we can expect many more innovative designs from Art of Technology in the future. www.aotag.ch

3D-MID – High definition camera system, Photo: © Art of Technology AG

Discover Germany | Business | Solicitor Column

Unblocking online shopping TEXT & PHOTO: GREGOR KLEINKNECHT

If, like a growing number of us, you do much of your shopping online these days, your life just got even easier, more varied and − quite possibly − cheaper: on 3 December, the new EU Geoblocking Regulation entered into force. What on earth is geoblocking, you may well ask?

Well, I find that, if I go to the .de website of a well-known online retail empire whose name starts with the letter A, not only do I find different products than are available on the retailer’s .co.uk website, I also find that the same products often cost less on the German website than in the UK after allowing for currency conversion. My log-in credentials work in the same way on both platforms and I still get free delivery. Perfect. However, some other online retailers have traditionally not liked the idea of the customer being king, and shopping around between different country websites of the same retail business, and made sure that you were automatically redirected to the website appropriate to the location from which you accessed the internet (recognisable by the IP address). The effect (if not the objective) of restricting your access to the retailer’s other websites based on your geographical location was that you had less choice and could be charged higher prices. That’s geoblocking. Not helpful.

One of the EU’s ‘grand projets’ is the creation of a digital single market across all member states and geoblocking, quite literally, stands in the way of that; it restricts online shopping and cross-border

sales of goods and services both to consumers and to business end users. The Regulation therefore now prohibits unjustified restrictions on accessing websites across borders, denying the possibility to complete an order, purchase goods or to download content when accessing a website from abroad, denying shipment or delivery across borders, or providing different prices and conditions depending on the customer’s nationality, country of residence or location. The Regulation applies regardless of whether the provider is established in another EU member state or in a third country (typically, the United States). There is also a provision against discrimination in relation to means of payment. The Regulation is part of a wider legislative package that also aims to facilitate cross-border delivery of parcels and the application of VAT rules, as well as to strengthen consumer rights.

There may still be valid reasons for traders not wishing to sell or deliver across borders, for example, tax implications or different legal requirements for providing goods or services in another country, provided that a denial of access can be justified objectively. There are (for now at least) some caveats: the prohibition on applying different general conditions of access for reasons related to a customer’s nationality or residence do not apply to non-audio-visual copyright protected content services (such as e-books, online music, software and videogames).

Audio-visual services are outside of the scope of the Regulation altogether, as are some other services such as financial, transport and health services.

So, all in all, a step forward for e-commerce and for consumers in Europe. Well done EU, thank you and keep up the good work.

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 70 | January 2019 | 69

Discover Germany | Culture | Language Column

TEXT: ADAM JACOT DE BOINOD | PHOTO: DREAMSTIME

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

German is highly imaginative in her adoption of phrases from their literal definition to be given a whole new metaphorical sense:

- an jemandem einen Affen gefressen haben: to be infatuated with someone (literally, to have eaten a monkey in someone)

- aufgetakelt sein: to get all dolled up (literally, with all sails set) - Besucherritze: the gap where the middle of three people lie when two single beds are pushed together (literally, a visitor’s trench) - Sitzfleisch: the ability to sit through long and boring events without losing concentration (literally, seat meat) - Staubsauger: a vacuum cleaner (literally, a dust sucker) - Flimmerkasten: television (literally, a flickering box) - Giftschrank: a cupboard where things are kept that may only be lent out to someone with special permission (literally, a poison cabinet) - Stutenbeißen: the special behaviour of women in a rivalry situation (literally, mare biting)

French has come up with some of the very best vocabulary:

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- xerox: an unoriginal or robotic person - dame-pipi: a female toilet assistant - accordéon: an extensive criminal record - bondieuserie: ostentatious piety - serein: fine rain falling from a cloudless sky - un petit cinq-à-sept: a quick five to seven o’clock (an afternoon quickie with your lover before going home to your spouse) - se ranger: to get married for domestic comfort and put life on a regular footing - lézarder: to lie around basking in the sun like a lizard - la mie: the inside of bread - chantepleurer: to sing and weep simultaneously

In English, we can be green with envy, see red, or feel a bit blue, and colours also have a strong symbolic force in Italian idioms: - romanzo rosa: a pink (i.e. romantic) story - di punto in bianco: suddenly, unexpectedly (literally, from a point in white) - un coro di voci bianche: a children’s chorus (literally, a chorus of white voices) - matrimonio in bianco: an unconsummated marriage (literally, a white marriage) - mettere nero su bianco: to write down (literally, to put black on white) - un libro giallo: a thriller book (literally, a yellow book) - giallo d’invidia: very envious (literally, yellow with envy)

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 | Special Theme | Business Exclusive Profiles

Days of Dance (Tanztage) Berlin, Nina Burkhardt: The Idea of Satisfaction.

Photo: © India Roper-Evans

Culture Calendar The Christmas celebrations are all over now and everyone is trying to stick to their New Year’s resolutions. But that does not mean that January cannot be fun: far from it! Start 2019 in style with plenty of exciting events from sports and music to culture and food. Are you ready…?

New Year’s Concert, Vienna (1 January) The New Year’s concert is a true highlight of the famous Wiener Philharmoniker. The concert focuses on works by Strauß, yet keeps it light and entertaining. The event is broadcasted live in 90 different countries and is annually one of the most popular concerts in all of Austria. www.wienerphilharmoniker.at/neujahrskonzert/ das-neujahrskonzert

Touch the Mountains, Interlaken (1 January) The ultimate start to 2019 is without question this free open-air event in Switzerland’s Interlaken.

It features a fantastic line-up of bands and, of course, the legendary Pyromusical, which creates a perfect symbiosis of fireworks and music.

There are numerous after-show parties across the entire town at which to continue dancing until the sun comes up. www.touchthemountains.ch

New Year’s Marathon, Berlin (1 January) Given that many of us will have New Year’s resolutions involving exercise, this might be the right way to kickstart new habits. Around 3,500 runners take part in this 4k marathon across Berlin, also passing the Brandenburg Gate. It is purely

TEXT: MARILENA STRACKE

about being part of it − there are no races or competitions. Runners do not have to register − just show up on the day and you are good to go. www.berlin.de

Days of Dance, Berlin (1 – 19 January) The festival is called ‘Tanztage’ in German and it is a contemporary dance festival with a clear

Touch the Mountains Interlaken.

Photo: © Touching the Mountains Interlaken

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Discover Germany | Culture | Culture Calendar focus on discovering and supporting emerging choreographers and dancers in Berlin. Different genres and styles make this festival so very captivating and truly refreshing. Tickets are available on the website of the venue Sophiensaele. www.sophiensaele.co

TrendSet Munich (3 – 5 January) Across 100,000 square metres, approximately 2,500 collections, which are dedicated to lifestyle, will be on display. Around 35,000 buyers, top decision-makers and design enthusiasts explore the trends of the next season. This fair happens twice a year and is open to anyone. www.trendset.de NEUE ArT. Photo: © MESSE DRESDEN / Daniel Gammert

Days of Dance (Tanztage) Berlin, Olympia Bukkakis: Gender Euphoria. Drag as a Construction Site for New Gender Realities. Photo: © Niklas van Shwarzdorn

Neue ArT fair, Dresden (4 – 6 January) From paintings and graphics to sculptures, photos, designs and installations: this fair puts art into the centre of it all and shows how much heart and soul goes into its process. It is certainly the place to be in January for any art professionals or enthusiasts. www.neue-art-dresden.de

Photo: © Pixabay

Four Hills Tournament, Bischofshofen (5 – 6 January) Every year, approximately 25,000 ski enthusiasts come to watch and cheer the world’s champions during the final of the prestigious Four Hill Tournament in Bischofshofen. This is a premium sports event not to be missed – so make sure you wrap up warm. www.vierschanzentournee.com/en

International Green Week Berlin.

Photo: © Messe Berlin GmbH

Husky camp and race, Pillersee Tal (5 – 20 January) This is a truly special event, particularly if you love dogs. At the husky camp and race, visitors can learn how to take care of these stunning dogs. Huskies from all over the world are shown here. Watching them race across the beautiful snowy Austrian landscape is an unforgettable experience for everyone. www.kitzbueheler-alpen.com/de/pillerseetal/ winter/schlittenhunde-camp-rennen.html

International Dolomitenlauf Lienz. Photo: © EXPA-Gruber

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Berlin Fashion Week (15 – 18 January) This is it: Berlin’s legendary fashion week. The glamorous event is held twice a year and is the number one place for renowned designers to

Discover Germany | Culture | Culture Calendar showcase their newest creations. It is a solid favourite amongst fashion buyers, retailers, celebrities and journalists because this is, without question, where the trends of tomorrow are born. www.fashion-week-berlin.com

International Dolomitenlauf, Lienz (18 – 20 January) The Dolomitenlauf is Austria’s largest and most important cross-country skiing event and returns this year for its 45th edition. It is based on a fairly unique concept open to both amateurs and professionals. Seven races of different levels regarding distance and difficulty offer a great variety to anyone who would like to participate. This four-day skiing extravaganza is one of Austria’s winter sports highlights. www.dolomitensport.at/de/dolomitenlauf/ allgemeine-informatione

International Green Week, Berlin (18 – 27 January) This fair was first established in 1926 and continues to introduce new products as well as known brands to test the market. It is considered the world’s biggest one for the food, agricultural and gardening industries, and certainly promises to be an exciting week. www.gruenewoche.de

TrendSet Fair.

Photo: © TrendSet GmbH

Photo: © Pixabay

Chinese New Year, Berlin (24 – 27 January) Welcome the Chinese year of the pig with a varied programme of colourful performance including traditional dragon and lion dances, as well as laser shows with fireworks. Events will happen at Potsdamer Platz Arkaden and Potsdamer Platz and will add a lovely splash of colour to this grey month. www.berlin.de

Antique fair of La Gruyère, Bulle (25 – 27 January) The Gruyère market brings together over 240 exhibitors across 8,000 square-metres. The well-established traditional fair with its fleamarket atmosphere offers some truly unique items – and the right find for everyone. Today, the market is one of the largest indoor events of its kind in the French part of Switzerland and is a firm favourite amongst locals and travellers alike. www.la-gruyere.ch/en Issue 70 | January 2019 | 73

Discover Germany | Culture | Barbara Geier Column

Hello, 2019 TEXT & PHOTO: BARBARA GEIER

So, here we go. ‘Auf Wiedersehen’, 2018.

Hello, 2019. At this time of year, many of you are probably thinking about what has been and what might be on the agenda for the year ahead. Pondering what you would like to change in your life and achieve in 2019. According to a recent YouGov survey, carried out in cooperation with the Federal Ministry of Labour and Social Affairs, Germans have one thing in particular on their minds. It’s all about the work-life balance.

Here are the figures: 45 per cent of the survey respondents want flexible working hours and 39 per cent would like to reduce their working hours. Well, who wouldn’t?

However, here’s the thing: Germany is actually already doing quite well when it comes to more flexible ways of working.

The YouGov survey also asked “Does your company offer options to reduce working hours or work part-time?”, and 60 per cent answered that with yes. Not too bad in comparison and from my expat perspective. It’s funny how your perception changes. And my current, one based on having many working relations with Germans in Germany is that they have way more free time than people in the UK. Which might also be down to – watch out, cliché coming up – higher levels of efficiency. But that’s another topic.

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Coming back to my impression of the German work-life-balance situation. Of course, I know that this is subjective. At the same time, there are certain things that are just very German for me in a working hours context that I still encounter regularly. Trying to get hold of someone on a Friday afternoon can be difficult at times (motto: come in early to make off into the weekend as soon as possible). Then there are the regular ‘Brückentage’, the famous German Fridays between bank/public holidays and the weekend. Don’t expect to find too many at work then and something to consider for everyone who has regular business relations with Germans. I mean, come on, who in their right mind would come in for just one day!

Then there are the bank/public holidays as such. After many years in the UK, I feel that Germany has just too many of them.

In this context, please note that by saying “too many”, I have basically, for Germans, committed a crime. Never, ever try to suggest that the odd ‘Feiertag’ (literally, “a day of celebration”) might be scrapped, it doesn’t go down well in Germany. Mind you, these days of leisure are not an equal figure for all. Depending on which federal state you live in, it’s a few more or less.

With 13, Bavaria and its people win (lots of Catholic bank holidays). The good folk of

the Bavarian city of Augsburg even get one extra for a special local festivity. In Berlin, Bremen and Hamburg, it’s ‘only’ nine. Or, in a nutshell, should you ever consider moving to Germany and a good work-life balance is high up on your agenda, make sure to move in the right direction…

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.

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