Banksy is the pseudonym of a “guerrilla” street artist known for his controversial, and often politically themed, stenciled pieces. He is by far my most favorite street artist.
In Frankfurt I got to check out the exhibition āThe Art of Banksyā and loved it. He makes you think, inspires conversation and always leaves you with a little bit of mystery. Simply love the way he addresses social and political issues.
These are some of my favorite pieces.
If you ever get a chance to check out some of his art work, donāt hesitate, itās worth it.
At the 5-star Westin Grand Frankfurt you will discover an urban retreat where a well-being-inspired philosophy contrasts with the cityās dynamic pace. The hotel is located at the crossroads of historic and modern Frankfurt and is the natural gateway for those wishing to actively explore the metropolis.
Striking a balance between business and leisure, the property combines a wholesome welcome with a seamless forum for business settings, healthy cuisine and revitalizing spa.
You will step into a refreshing setting where the Westin Six Pillars of WellBeing empowers each experience and allows guests to be the best version of themselves.
They offer 372 calming guestrooms and suites. Newly renovated, each room is defined by features that reference the destinationās history and green spaces, merging functionality with daylight. I stayed in a deluxe king room on the 5th floor and slept extremely well. Calm and quiet, excellent service, free water, a good coffee machine, additional pillows and a soft bathrobe. The whole staff was extremely accommodating and just cordial.
For me, it was the perfect place to combine business with pleasure. I could easily relax and unwind at their spa, used their gym so that I can stick to my training plan and could easily attend my business meetings due to the central location.
I paid for everything by myself and did not receive any promotion. I can just totally recommend this hotel and will surely come back. Also, I recommend using the Marriott BonVoy App, the hotel company’s loyalty program, allowing you to earn and redeem points for stays at Bonvoy brands including The Ritz-Carlton, St. Regis, JW Marriott, Sheraton, Westin and Renaissance Hotels.
You can easily check in and check out online, use your mobile phone as room key, can chat with the reception staff and have access to exclusive deals and amenities. Itās definitely worth it.
I experienced two weeks of pure mindfulness in Mallorca. Together with my family we enjoyed the Mediterranean Sea, local cuisine, great excursions far from mass tourism and loved to watch the local surfer scene. DM me for special tips. ššāļøš
It has been pretty quiet, since I am still recovering from my last surgery and was crazy busy at work. Not the best combination, I admit, but now I am finally finding my inner balance again. Hence, I hit the pause button and traveled to Fuerteventura where I slowly started with my training again.
Endless MTB trails Fuerteventura
If you like it less crowded like me, I can recommend Caleta de Fuste: not too touristy, awesome trails and bike routes and not too far away from other beautiful areas on the island.
Here are just some impressions from my short break. I will definitely be coming back sharing more insights.
But for now I will focus on my recovery so that I can offer some guided tours during summer again.
Here is a little tip for everyone who is spending the summer in the city: enjoy a sundowner at the Isar river bank with āIsar on the Rocksā. A date with your hubby, bae, BFF or just with any friend or family member.
The idea is pretty neat. Simply order your picnic box and get it delivered directly to your picnic spot at the river bank between Reichenbachbruecke and Braunauer Eisenbahnbruecke in downtown Munich.
The drinks are served cold on the rocks, the snacks are a great choice as well. Picnic with style. I for sure will test several boxes as long as the weather permits it. Who wants to join me?
xoxo
photo credits: āIsar on the Rocksā, Munich Mountain Rebel
Living through a global pandemic takes its toll on your physical and mental well-being. As the weeks go on under quarantine, lots of people have experienced a rollercoaster of emotions and feelings – from sadness and anger to tiredness and feeling groggy. I call it the COVID burnout.
First my MTB accident with a rather severe trauma 2 years ago, then the pandemic. After carefully weighing the pros and cons, I decided to go on my first vacation during the pandemic.
Some might think itās pretty selfish, others would consider it stupid with me being a person at increased risk of severe illness from COVID-19. But you know what: you only live once. My life, my rules. However, during a pandemic it is not that simple, since I donāt wanna spread the virus or endanger others. Hence, I self-isolated myself ten days before the vacation and took a COVID test once a week.
Preparations before the vacation to Mallorca
You need to familiarize yourself with all travel restrictions. For Mallorca I needed to fill out the Spain health form in advance and I took a quick PCR test 24 hours before my flight. Make sure the official document is signed by a certified doctor and that it includes your passport number. The costs are not covered by your health insurance. Also, safe the QR code from the health form in your phoneās wallet. You will need it several times.
For my travels, I booked Business Class to feel safer. Up to 12 hours before the flight you need to upload the filled out Spain health form and the negative test result of your PCR test. Make sure to do so in advance to avoid any trouble at the airport. Also, I booked a private Transfer Service to the airport for both destinations avoiding any contact in public transportation. I also ordered more FFP-2 masks for my vacation: one mask per day. Additionally I bought some COVID-19 quick tests, just in case I needed extra precautions on my side.
I strongly recommend to also check the German travel registrations beforehand. The German government tends to make things complicated. When returning from your vacation, you need a certified negative COVID test before boarding any plane or ferry. I recommend to find certified places in Mallorca beforehand, since local doctors and clinics have limited appointments. I chose to book an appointment at the Eurofins MegaLab at Palma Airport: a quick PCR test on my departure day. Make sure to download their app Trust One beforehand and register. Within 30 minutes you get your results and can easily check-in.
As I mentioned before, I felt safer booking Business Class and already checked in via the Lufthansa app. Then I used the self-check in service at Munich airport, since I already had my boarding pass. One scan, dropping off my luggage, no contacts with other people. I was all set within 5 minutes.
At the safety control, it was the same procedure as usual. Only this time I was the only passenger standing in line, nobody else was there. The airport felt like a ghost town.
Then, at the gate, each passenger was checked individually before boarding. You needed to show your passport, the filled out health form and the negative PCR test. After the check you get a yellow sticker on your passport which you needed to show once again during boarding.
When stepping on the plane, everyone received some disinfectant wipes. The board service is limited: they handed out packed chocolate bars and a bottle of water. But honestly: you donāt really need a board service for a two-hour flight. I kept my mask on the whole time.
Hello Mallorca
After landing they called out the respective rows that were allowed to to leave the plane. One row after another.
On the way to the luggage you will undergo several inspections. Health check & screening of the negative PCR test, QR code from your health form. When I arrived, the airport was pretty empty as well. Many sections were completely closed and it was easy to avoid any contact.
Vacation in Mallorca
The reality is pretty sad. Empty villages, closed shops & hotels, empty beachesā¦. An estimated 75% of all income generated on the Balearic Islands are directly or indirectly linked to the travel industry, which has led to both rising living standards and higher costs of living for its residents. The inhabitants are experiencing rising poverty that’s even spreading to its wealthier quarters. The next holiday season is unlikely to heal the wound from the pandemicā¦.
For me, however, this meant that it was much quieter and safer than currently in Munich. For several days I had the beach completely for myself and it was generally very quiet: in the supermarket, on the streets; but the change of scenery worked wonders.
MTB in Mallorca during COVID
Mallorca is more popular among road & gravel bikers. Due to the pandemic, many shops are still closed and services are simply not available. Hence, you need to be flexible and pragmatic. For me, it meant a road bike helmet for an average Hardtail. I made it work, though.
BUT: there are currently no shuttle services and in order to get to the trails, you need to cover lots of mileage on the hilly roads. With beautiful mountain ranges with an elevation gain of 1,000 m, thatās tough. Sometimes it was the hell of a workout, but always worth it. I discovered so many beautiful hidden gems.
Mask or no mask
The rules are stricter than in Germany. As soon as you leave your home, hotel room or finca, you need to wear a mask at all times. The only exceptions: during outdoor sports or when sunbathing. When walking along the beach, you need to wear a mask. It is strict, the fines are pretty high. But everyone seems to follow the rules.
Just a little tip: rent a bike. This way you can mostly breathe freely without a mask while discovering the island and enjoying scenic moments. I didnāt eat out, though or sat down at a cafe. I mostly avoided personal contacts and simply enjoyed the beauty of the Mediterranean Sea and some personal wellness.
For one exception: I booked a private boat tour at sunrise watching dolphins in Alcudia Bay. I just needed it for my mind and soul.
All in all, I have zero regrets and am pretty sure we will experience new ways of traveling within the near future. And yes, I felt pretty safe and was very cautious myself.
I hope all of you are safe, healthy and also get to refuel your energy during these tough times.
Winter season brings out the romance in me. I just love the holiday season. This year I discovered a true fairy tale in Lenzerheide, Switzerland.
The Zauberwald Lenzerheide is one of the most magical Christmas markets I have ever seen. You get to enjoy pretty cool art and light installations, live concerts, even some poetry and traditional Christmas booths with hot cider, local food and craftsmanship – surrounded by the majestic mountains of Lenzerheide.
Right now it is my favorite Christmas market, EVER. I got goosebumps, happy tears and could really feel the magic of the trees – breathtakingly beautiful and peaceful.
How to get there
It is pretty close to Munich. Hence, I took the Flixbus to Chur (a three-hour ride from Munich for 15 EUR) and from there I hopped on the PostBus to Lenzerheide – a 40-minute ride from Chur. If you prefer a little road trip, it only takes two hours and half from Munich.
I recommend to stay for a whole weekend. Lenzerheide is just so pretty. I can really picture myself living there. You find many great deals online. I stayed at the Hotel Sarain Active Mountain Resort, which was all I needed. My recommendation for the Zauberwald Lenzerheide: book a priority ticket online. This saves you a lot of hustle. If you start early at around 5 p.m. it is not too crowded, either.
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All in all, I spent 150 EUR for a whole weekend, including entrance fees, accommodation, bus fares and food expenses.
Tis the season. Winter magic, hot punch, lots of powder action and simply taking it easy. It is my favorite season. Hence, it is also a bit more quiet around here. I just love to spend these magical times with my beloved ones, enjoying the holiday season in Seefeld & Davos.
Seefeld
Tyrol is just a short drive from Munich and one of my favorite winter sports destinations. I am not a huge aprĆØs-ski fan and always try to avoid the crowds. Hence, I know exactly which routes to take in order to have some peaceful moments and high-quality alone time, appreciating nature and the great outdoors.
Davos
Well, it is no secret that I have lost my heart in Davos. For the first time, I will spend New Year’s in Grison and I am looking forward to trying out new things. Maybe I will go night sledding at the Rinerhorn on New Year’s Eve, try air boarding at Pischa or will go on a romantic horse-sleigh ride.
So, apologies that it is going to be a bit more quiet around here till the end of December. But I will definitely keep you posted afterwards, sharing my highlights and new training goals.
Till then, enjoy the holiday season with your loved ones and don’t get too stressed. Just relax and live a litte.
The Grand Hotel Kronenhof is one of the most splendid hotels in the Alps. This heritage-protected luxury-class establishment is located in the heart of the idyllic Engadine village of Pontresina, only six kilometres from St. Moritz. The only 5-star superior hotel in the village, it boasts some 112 spacious rooms and suites as well as the large and well-equipped Kronenhof Spa and several very notable restaurants.
I was cordially invited to stay one night at the hotel in order to explore charming and elegant Pontresina. It was the beginning of my personal Swiss fairytale and I could not wait to get out of my hiking gear, changing into one of my pretty dresses.
Historic Architecture
Historic architecture that dates from 1848, elegant light-filled rooms and suites, one of the finest spa facilities in the world and a superb location in the heart of the Swiss Alps ā this unique mix of the magic of times long past, modern comfort, and the beautiful natural world all around is what makes the Grand Hotel Kronenhof so special and unique. After a comprehensive renovation in 2007, this landmark neo-baroque building that is an alpine architectural treasure is now also one of the worldās top luxury and wellness hotels.
The Grand Hotel Kronenhof belongs to a tradition of hospitality that began in 1848. Today, the Grand Hotel Kronenhof is among the best-preserved 19th-century grand hotels found anywhere and is, at the same time, one of Switzerlandās top luxury and wellness hotels.
The Mountaineering Village of Pontresina
Pontresina is situated in a wind-sheltered side valley at 1,805 metres above sea level. The village is very close to the Bernina Massif with the two most famous peaks of the Engadine: Piz PalĆ¼ and Piz Bernina. Standing at 4,049 m, the Bernina is the highest peak in the Eastern Alps. The region offers visitors action and variety as it also offers peace and quiet.
Guests first arriving at the historic mountaineering village are immediately captivated with the village itself. The charm of the traditional Engadine houses and the elegance of the Belle Ćpoque hotels quickly transport you to a more tranquil former age.
My opinion: I find it much more charming and relaxing than St. Moritz (no offense).
Staying in Style
With 112 rooms and suites in different categories, the Grand Hotel Kronenhof in Pontresina blends modern comfort with grand hotel elegance and atmosphere. The hotel is ideal for families, especially as most of its stylish rooms can be connected, but also for couples or singles.
Honestly, I was pleasantly surprised by the interior design of the rooms and their rates as well. Since I mostly travel alone, I always have a closer look at the single rooms. The cozy Deluxe Single Rooms and Superior Single Rooms all exude an alpine elegance. All rooms have a small seating area, and the luxurious bathrooms feature the finest granite and amenities.
During high winter season, prices start at 400 CHF for a single room, which I think is VERY fair. ā All rates are in Swiss francs per night and room, and include a gourmet package (half board) as well as free access to the 2,000 sq m Kronenhof Spa and to the fitness centre.
Guests can also benefit from free Wi-Fi, free use of the Kulm Golf St. Moritz and Kulm tennis courts in summer and of the natural ice rink in winter (until the end of February). In addition, the hotel provides a free shuttle service to and from Pontresina train station, and a free ski shuttle to the Celerina/Marguns and Diavolezza mountain railways. Service charges, tourist tax and VAT are also included.
In comparison, Deluxe Classic Double Rooms are located in the main wing, on the South side of the building and feature a view of the magnificent St. Moritz Mountain range. Furnished with cherry wood furniture and light-grey/red granite bathrooms, these rooms offer both functionality and comfort. Some rooms were recently renovated and redesigned by star architect Pierre-Yves Rochon. Prices start at 715 CHF.
Compared to other 5-star superior hotels in the world, this is an EXCELLENT package!
Culinary Art
Guests at the Grand Hotel Kronenhof can enjoy culinary variety in three restaurants. Diners can relish the decor in the magnificent Grand Restaurant, sample a fine gourmet meal at the KronenstĆ¼bli, have lunch at Le Pavillon in the legendary Kronenhof Bar & Lounge, or alternatively, dip into Swiss fondue and Raclette at the cosy bowling alley. Thereās no doubt that every stay at the Kronenhof is a culinary discovery trip.
Believe me, you will be deligthed to dine at the Grand Hotel Kronenhof: first-class service and excellent cuisine! I strongly recommend to dine at the Grand Restaurant when you stay at the Kronenhof.
In the splendid Grand Restaurant with its neo-baroque vault dating from 1872, guests can experience a wide culinary variety as well as a sense of history and of elegance. Here, breakfast and dinner are really served in style. Swiss culinary specialties combined with international creations and local products all play a part in dishes that are a synthesis of the culinary arts ā accompanied by a wine selection that leaves nothing to be desired, of course.
Wellness Heaven for Dreamers
Have you ever tried floating before and can relate to this feeling when you reached total relaxation? Then you know, what I am talking about ā an unforgettable experience.
The Kronenhof Spa really is a place of relaxation ā for those who enjoy, relax and dream. The unique wellness and fitness offer on 2,000 square meters is one of the most impressive in the Engadine. And it is also available to non-resident guests.
Next to their beauty, body and wellness treatments, they now also offer a oneday mental coaching session, where you can Change your life sustainably, gain clarity and mental power. Currently one of the most renowned Swiss psychologists and mountain guides, Thomas Theurillat, sets the course for success and satisfaction with the Kronenhof guests.
Awaken the Dreamer in You and remember: All our dreams can come true, if we have the courage to pursue them. This is exactly how I felt when leaving the spa area.
A new Favorite Luxury Retreat?
Just a little side note: I once did a trip with my mom along the east coast in the USA and we stayed at the Ritz Carlton Central Park in New York and simply pampered ourselves. Up till now, the Ritz Carlton has been my all-time favorite Luxury Hotel in a Western Country/City because of this special memory and these positive, warm vibes.
Seriously, this has now changed. This warmth and peacefulness at the Grand Hotel Kronenhof just got me right from the beginning when I stepped inside. At the Grand Hotel Kronenhof I really felt like I could just be myself, refuel my energy, bring things back into balance and simply fall in love with the surrounding mountains. I had one of these fairytale moments that are really precious. And I will never forget it.
Are you ready for breathtakingly beautiful fairytale-like moments? Then make sure to find your way to the Grande Dame of Pontresina. ā My German readers will find a lovely interview with the Reservations Manager below. Enjoy!
xoxo
photo credits: Grand Hotel Kronenhof, Munich Mountain Rebel
Badrutt’s Palace Hotel, in the center of St. Moritz, has been synonymous with glitz and glamour since the resort opened as the Palace Hotel in 1896. This landmark luxury hotel overlooks Lake Saint Moritz and offers views of the surrounding Swiss Alps.
Every guest can feel it. The St. Moritz magic at this hotel. The feeling when you enter the Le Grand Hall is indescribable. Like a spell, far from the daily routine. The history of this luxury hotel in St. Moritz draws you in again and again into its enchantment. This is what St. Moritz looks and feels like!
History
It all started in 1856 when Johannes Badrutt took over the 12-bed Pension Faller in St. Moritz and upgraded it into a hotel with the name Engadiner Kulm (today’s Kulm Hotel).
This was followed by the legendary bet: Caspar Badrutt (1848-1904), son of Johannes Badrutt, purchased the St. Moritz Hotel Beau Rivage, built in 1872 by C. Rungger. He charged the renowned Swiss architects Chiodera and Tschudi with the remodelling of the hotel. The hotel was also renamed Palace Hotel.
Johannes Badrutt won a wager and brought the first English tourists to St. Moritz for winter sports. He built curling rinks and the world’s first toboggan run and, in doing so, invented alpine winter tourism. And that was exactly the time, when the magic began.
The official opening of the Palace Hotel was then on July 29th, 1896.
Regular Guests
Alfred Hitchcock first came to St. Moritz in 1924, and returned here two years later for his December honeymoon with Alma Reville, staying at Badrutt’s Palace Hotel (these days, locals just call it āthe Palaceā).
Back in the day, Alfred Hitchcock was a regular here, staying in Badruttās Palace Hotel annually for 50 years. In the picture above, you see the Hitchcock Suite at the Palace.
Rooms & Suites
They have a total of 157 rooms, 37 of which are suites and junior suites. There are four room and seven suite categories ranging from CHF 490.00 to CHF 20’230.00.
I stayed in a Double Room Deluxe with lake view on the 5th floor. Spacious, individually designed, soothing colors. Only the best materials are used, such as Italian marble in the bathroom. My opinion: At the Palace, it is all about details. Very charming and your home away from home!
My friend Milos stayed in a Junior Suite Deluxe on the 2nd floor. The Junior Suite Deluxe meets the demands of a modern man or woman who knows exactly what he or she wants. Guaranteed lake view. Own balcony. Spacious and enough storage. Noble materials – and everything stylish.
My favorite suite is the Hans Badrutt Suite. This suite with lake view is like a catchy tune: it stays on your mind. A marble entrance hall. A cosy library. The princess-like bathroom with make up mirror. From the Jacuzzi the princess overlooks the mountains. The dressing room provides ample space for all treasures. Simply magical!
Restaurants, Bars and Night Club
IGNIV@Badruttās Palace: A new restaurant concept never seen before in St. Moritz. IGNIV@Badruttās Palace by Andreas Caminada opened on 21st December 2016 in the rooms of Le Relais. IGNIV means Ā»nestĀ« and for Andreas Caminada, the 3 Michelin starred Swiss chef, stands for sharing values, social exchange and comfort. Caminadaās innovative finedining-sharing-experience focuses on time spent together, sharing menu components served on platters and in pans.
La Coupole/Matsuhisa@Badruttās Palace: in the 2014/15 winter season the Japanesese star chef Nobuyuki Matsuhisa (Ā»NOBUĀ«) opened his premier brand Matsuhisa in the former tennis hall, which was once Europeās first. The Martin Brudnizki Design Studio in London designed the unique interior of this 108 seat restaurant where original classic elements are skilfully combined with modern style. One such example is the original studded steel girders of the former tennis hall which now support a glass dome. This affords guests a view of the legendary hotel tower and also acts as both the landmark and namesake of āŗLa Coupoleā¹. The restaurant incorporates a cocktail and sushi bar as well as a private dining room. Japanese Peruvian cuisine; only open in the winter season.
Le Restaurant: The Grande Dame of Badruttās Palace Hotelās restaurants. Guests enjoy glamorous nights in a unique setting for a classic dinner, candlelight dinner or a cultural event. This venue seats 300 people and features International and French cuisine. During the winter a harpist entertains guests for breakfast. A set dinner is served daily throughout the summer and winter season. Dress code: From 07.30 pm jacket required, tie desired.
La Diala (Rhaeto-Romanic for Ā»mountain fairyĀ«): The latest of Badruttās Palace Hotelās restaurants. Situated within Palace Wellness, the restaurant offers a light Mediterranean cuisine with a wide selection of salads and sandwiches. The family friendly restaurant with its terrace opens daily from 09.00 am to 08.00 pm.
Chesa Veglia: One of the oldest farmhouses of St. Moritz (built in 1658). Chesa Veglia is a hideaway for the rich and famous and its restaurants are among the favourites in St. Moritz. It features three restaurants and two bars: The Pizzeria Heuboden for original Italian pizza and pasta, the Grill Chadafƶ for elegant dining with classic French cuisine and the Patrizier Stuben for Swiss and International specialities. The Polo Bar and Carigiet Bar are the perfect place for a get-together, as well as for pre and after dinner drinks.
Kingās Club: All party animals and fans of sophisticated nightlife are on tenterhooks. The new Kingās Club has been revealed in its new outfit during winter season 2016/17. Tantalising afresh in shimmering red and glittering gold. Sizzling with life and energy, on fire. Mirrors, sparkle and light elements galore make the club and its future clubbers shine bright. The new Kingās Club celebrates the beautiful things in life: combining the joy of live music and famous DJ stars with an elegant, relaxed atmosphere and a tempting list of signature drinks and irresistible urban street food. Open only during the winter season.
Treatment Centre with ten individual treatment rooms including two luxury Spa Suites, private Hair Spa, Pedi Spa, Solarium, one room for facial treatments and four rooms for body treatments, Wet Zone/ Palace Spa with two Saunas, Ice Room, Mist Room, Aroma Therapy Room, Salt Steam Room, Massage Shower and Rain Shower
Fitness Centre with latest fitness and cardio facilities
Yoga room
Private sun terrace
Outdoor tennis courts managed by professional tennis coaches (summer only)
Natural outdoor ice-rink with instructor (winter only)
Kidsā Club Palazzino with professional day care
Palace Galerie
Gallery with designer boutiques and elegant jewellers plus shopping guide: Bulgari, Rebecca Ardessi, Churchās, Embassy Jewel AG, Louis Vuitton, Cartier, De Grisogono, Les Ambassadeurs, Trois Pommes, Miu Miu, de Nicola, GĆ¼belin, Four Emotions, Santoni, Snow Sports St. Moritz, Tom Ford, Gucci, Bottega Veneta, Giorgio Armani, Harry Winston, Lucia Pieri, Fabio Caviglia and Galerie Gmurzynska
Service Spectrum
Palace Ski School in winter
In-house ski service, shop and rentals in winter
Ski pass included
Kidsā Club Palazzinoā¹ with professional day care included
Free laundry service for children until 12 years
24-hour Room Service
24-hour Concierge Service
Butler service for all rooms and suites
Free use of refreshment bar, movie channels, WiFi Internet access in all areas and free newspaper
Limousine service and car hire, including Rolls Royce transfers
Shuttle service to/from Zurich, Milan and Samedan airports on request
Free use of all fitness facilities
Free access to ice-rink
Events & Guest Relations Team
In-house fitness trainer
In-house bridge hostess
Baby sitting service
Coiffeur Hair Spa
To sum it all up: Tradition and quality endure. So it says daily in the ads. If the sales arguments are still the same almost 90 years later, it seems like tradition, quality and innovation were actually proven – and the St. Moritz glamour-factor is still there.
