Me in the bathrobe mode: Arriving in the SpaSphere of the Vienna House Andel’s Berlin and firstly drinking a tea

A city trip to a city such as Berlin can sometimes be quite exhausting. Sightseeing and miles of running around, plus the permanent noise level. Phew, that really takes it out of you. My tip: Book a hotel with a spa – like the Vienna House Andel’s Berlin. The advantage is the combination of location near the city and the possibility to retreat in a relaxing oasis, which is equipped with everything to relax for a few hours.

Then I explore the sauna area of the SpaSphere

The Vienna House Andel’s Berlin is located in Berlin-Lichtenberg, less than ten minutes from the center and the vibrant Alexanderplatz. Known for its star restaurant ‘Skykitchen’ on the twelfth floor, also the hotel’s SpaSphere on the second floor offers views over the capital. Anyone who sweats in the Finnish sauna – or as I prefer the moderate temperatures of the biosauna – can enjoy the look over Berlin. For me, by the way, always a big plus, if spas and gyms are not banished into the deepest catacombs and thus benefit from the light of day. Speaking of gym: In the Vienna House Andel’s Berlin, one trains on equipment by TechnoGym. If you like, hop in the large Jacuzzi, or get some fresh air on the roof terrace and then visit the steam room. After that I am ready for a beauty treatment of a special kind.

Silva, the head of the SpaSphere, is my fairy godmother of the day

My fairy godmother on this day is Silva and expects me already with a “Mountain Herb” tea from Ronnefeldt, before she leads me into my treatment cabin. Here I give away, together with my bathrobe, the daily ballast. I am bedded on a wonderfully comfortable – and heated – couch and let myself go for the next 55 minutes of total deceleration. “Velvet and silk” is the name of the treatment for which Silva first washes the body with sea foam, which is massaged into the skin with a peeling glove. With practiced hands and pleasant pressure Silva begins with the legs and then goes up to the back and décolleté. Showering is not required: the vitamin-rich sea foam is removed with moist compresses – and I am allowed to keep lying down.

My skin turns to velvet and silk: a feel-good treatment that should not end. By the way, SpaSphere uses products from Thalgo

The blood circulation of the skin is now running at full speed and is ready for the pack of  maritime algae, jojoba and almond oil, which smells wonderful. The defenses of the skin are thus mobilized, which is quite an advantage in this autumnal season. In the meantime, I have transformed myself into a wrap, thanks to Silva’s packaging arts with tiling and towels. But before I get to see this look, I prefer to leave it in Silva’s care. As the pores of the skin open up and the pack turns my skin into velvet and silk, it gets to your face. A gentle cleansing is followed by a moisturizing mask, which Silva – fascinatingly, because totally in sync – applies with two brushes. In gentle, flowing movements, the substances remaining on the skin are finally massaged in. Then, a day care is applied on the face. And I’m ready for the big city jungle again.  BvH

A look into one of a total of five treatment cabins…

…with beautiful details and candlelight

Info SpaSphere:

The 550 square meter SpaSphere at the Vienna House Andel’s Berlin is open daily from 10 am to 10 pm, on Sundays and public holidays from 9 am to 8 pm. The fitness area is available to hotel guests 24/7. When booking an application SpaSphere and fitness room can also be used by external guests. Towels, bathrobe and slippers are ready for the guest.

Between the sauna sessions, I enjoy the fresh air on the roof terrace…

…before it goes into the bubbling Jacuzzi

A footbath in between brings my circulation up to speed

Relaxed and silky-velvety, I feel after the treatment

Contact SpaSphere:

viennahouse.com/de/andels-berlin

The Vienna House Andel’s Berlin invited me to visit SpaSphere.

The post The SpaSphere at the Vienna House Andel’s Berlin appeared first on My Stylery.

Ciao, Lido!

Hardly any other place has such a longing potential as the city of Venice. Venice is the synonym for romance and mysticism, transfigured and described in literature and film. A tourist magnet that attracts millions of visitors every year, so that especially in the high season, the built on wooden poles lagoon city has long arrived at the edge of their capacity. But also in Venice there are contemplative retreats and oases of peace. One of them is the Lido. Known for the annual “Mostra internazionale d ‘arte cinematografica di Venezia” film festival, which will be held for the 75th time this year, the Lido has not really been known as a holiday destination so far. This, however, is about to change. A new beginning is planned, driven by a consortium of 21 hoteliers and business people. Unlike the rest of Venice, the Lido now relies on sustainable tourism, including alternative energies and environmental regulations as well as WWF-funded renaturation: The Lido is now green.

Morning idyll on the deserted beach. While the sand in the north of the Lido is rather dark due to the current, the beach in the southern part of the Lido is white and fine-sanded

Also at 8 o’clock in the morning the world is still fine in the Lido. The first swimmers have long pulled their tracks in the sea with the rising sun. The Adriatic Sea has 20 degrees during my visit in mid-April and is therefore surprisingly warm for the season. Two ramblers walk their dogs over the gray sand alley. Otherwise, I have the beach almost to myself. The season officially starts in May. The preparations for this have now been completed. That’s a good thing, since the winter has washed a lot of plastic surfaces and other dross to the shore.

The Venetian lion watches over everything

I walk past the legendary Grand Hotel des Bains, which has been closed since 2010 and has been waiting to be revived in its enchanted private park, just like Sleeping Beauty. On the main boulevard – the Gran Viale Santa Maria Elisabetta – around this time the first shutters are ran up. Chairs and tables are moved in front of the cafes, pasticcerias, gelaterias and bars, there is a lot of activity, the dishes clatter and there is a smell of freshly brewed espresso in the air. The Lido is like a village where everyone knows everyone: “Ciao, come stai?” The hustle and bustle has also caught the lagoon side early in the morning: Vaporetti or water taxis with commuters land or take off, because many Lidenzer work in San Marco or on the mainland.

The water taxi will take you to San Marco within ten minutes

Just a few minutes walk from the sea and lagoon lies my hotel, the Ausonia & Hungaria. A jewel of Art Deco, built in 1907 with an impressive, partly tiled façade. The Lido is known for its Art Nouveau architecture, which has been represented here since the work of the Austrian Habsburgs. Until then I knew the Gothic architecture of Venice with its Byzantine influences, but I am equally fascinated by the many Art Nouveau villas of the Lido. By the way, it is worthy to explore these architectural pearls by bike.

MyStylery on tour: The Lido can be easily explored by bike. The only twelve kilometers long island measures at the narrowest point just 300 meters, at the widest point 1.5 kilometers

By taxi – one of a total of twelve island taxis – I drive to the only golf club in Venice, the Circolo Golf Venezia in the south of the island. In the rickety Mercedes, he had already coached George Clooney and Michelle Pfeiffer over the Lido, the driver tells me proudly. Clooney, who flies by helicopter from his villa on Lake Como to the annual film festival taking place from August to September, has not yet played on the 18-hole golf course. Instead did Edward Duke of Windsor in the 1930s, while the reason for his renunciation of the English crown, the divorced American Wallis Simpson, was sitting in the luxury hotel Gritti Palace in San Marco, waiting for him. Whether the Duke was also enthusiastic about this perfectly into the landscape integrated place? Built in 1928 on the 16th-century fortifications, the golf course is flanked by mature trees and offers breathtaking views of the idyllic Lido landscape.

Insidertip: You’ll find the most popular beach Bagni Alberoni in the South of the island

From here, it is a stone’s throw to the most popular beach of the Lidenzer, the Bagni Alberoni. Nestled in the WWF under nature conservation and supervised, 30 hectares of area with dune landscapes and pine forests, the beach here is white and has fine sand. And just like in the morning I again enjoy a nearly deserted beach, look at the big ships that anchor in front of the Venetian lagoon and watch the waves. It’s hard to believe you’re here in Venice but also seemingly so far away.  BvH

View from the renatured dune landscape on beach and sea

Crumbling plaster on the facade of the former hotel legend Grand Hotel des Bains. An investor was found. Only the beginning of the extensive renovation is uncertain

Cafés, restaurants and shops line the main boulevard of the Lido, the Gran Viale

I also find the typical Venice vibe on the Lido: on my discovery tour I pass numerous bridges and canals

Vegetable shop with beautifully arranged products

Pearls of architecture

Byzantine Gothic meets Art Nouveau

Nice detail: The wooden decorations on the roof

I particularly like the rose-colored facade of Villa Anna Maria

Bridge railing in Art Deco: Beautiful!

Elegant gate with Art Deco elements

And another pearl of architecture on the Gran Viale

The baroque church of San Nicolo is located in the north of the Lido and helped the Venetians to secure the entrance to the lagoon. In the event of hostile attacks, the church bells were rung, warning the Venetians. The adjoining monastery is now the seat of the European Inter-University for Human Rights and Democratisation

At the widest part of the Lido – in the south of the island – between 1909 and 1911 the airport “Aeroporto di Venezia-Lido Giovanni Nicelli” was built in the most beautiful Art Deco, with a runway on lawn. The back then developed luxury hotels Excelsior and Grand Hotel des Bains were thus faster to reach. 1926 started the first scheduled flight from Vienna to Venice…

…praised by the BBC as the world’s most beautiful airport, the airport today is used by small private planes and helicopters

The Grande Albergo Ausonia & Hungaria is a four-star hotel restored with a love to detail…

…In the coming year, work on the building, which is under monumental protection, is scheduled to be completed. Tip: Book an treatment at the hotel’s Asian-inspired “Lanna Gaia” Spa

Being a gondolier once

I’ve always wanted to know what it’s like to maneuver a gondola. In the Nautico San Marco I get a small introduction including practical testing by experienced Gondolieri. (Bookings on Remiera San Marco). I notice: Looks easy, but requires years of training and body feeling. One leans forward slightly, while the outer arm pulls out and the inner arm leads the rudder. Got it?

View into the boat harbor of the Nautico San Marco: The boats are also used in the historic regatta “Ragata Storica”, which takes place every year in September. My “trainer” Tarsilo is one of the most successful regatta participants and has won the Ragata Storica 15 times

The golf club „Circolo Golf Venezia“:

After a round trip over the 18-hole course, you can enjoy excellent lunches in the restored red-clinker stables

The ‘Cradle’ of Venice is located on the Lido: Malamocco is not only the oldest part of Lido, it is the oldest part of Venice

Stroll through the small streets and inhale the atmosphere!

The foundations of the Relais Alberti,, today a twelve-room boutique hotel, date back to 1450. Built by the Florentine banking family Alberti, Relais Alberti, located in the center of Malamocco, is my personal highlight. For a year and a half under new management, it offers cooking classes with local dishes and ingredients from the hotel’s vegetable garden.

Elegantly furnished with partly antique Murano chandeliers: Relais Alberti

Here it also tastes the Hollywood celebrities: A dinner in the restaurant Quattro Fontane I can highly recommend. Tired heads will find a nice room in the associated hotel

The Quattro Fontane menu: beetroot, buffalo mozzarella and Parma ham…

…followed by vegetable risotto…

…and beef fillet. Simply delicious!

Buon Appetito!

The five-star hotel Excelsior has 197 rooms and suites…

…and the only hotel pool on the Lido, overlooking the sea

View from the Lido di Venezia to San Marco

Salute with a Bellini! Lido, I’ll come back

Bay the way:

Since 1932 a magnet for the public and one of the most important international film festivals: „Mostra“ – the Venice International Film Festival.

Contact Green Lido:

veneziaeilsuolido.it

Info Biennale May 26 – November 25 2018:

labiennale.org

The post Lido di Venezia, the green oasis of Venice appeared first on My Stylery.

The luxury ship MS Europa 2 infront of the Greek island of Naxos, the third leg of my cruise. What I experienced during the first days on board, you will find here

Half of my childhood I spent on the sea. As a captain for a Hamburg shipping company, my father drove a reefer ship, so-called banana boats, on whose decks I learned to walk and later spent my school holidays on. Atlantic, Caribbean, Pacific – on the world’s oceans around the world. In the opinion of my old master, cruise ships did not count to the true sea voyage. “Floating hotels” was his succinct commentary. The more exciting I was on my first cruise on the MS Europa 2, a 225-meter-long passenger steamer of the luxury category with room for 500 passengers. Our course: from Rhodes to Athens, a five-day spa trip through the Greek Aegean. MyStylery’s diary in four chapters.

Lounger with a view: From the aft deck I enjoy the sunrise

Day 3

The night was mega relaxed, though much too short, because after 48 miles at sea I did not want to miss the early arrival at Naxos coast. Naxos is the largest and greenest island in the Cyclades and is known for its castles and white beaches, which I explore in the afternoon on a 25 kilometer long bike tour. I am relieved that Tom, the bike guide, spares the 1004 meter high mountain Zas. The offered bike tours are by the way between three and five hours long. Price: from 40 Euro. The MS Europe 2 travel concierge offers tours starting at 29 Euros. If you like it more exclusive, book a helicopter trip for 400 Euros. Or discover the goal independently and on your own. Everything is possible.

MyStylery on the way to discover Naxos’ old town

In Naxos I have fallen in love. While Santorini is flooded by the narrow streets of the tourist towns, one can experience Naxos’s silence and relaxation. As before, the island is an insider tip and little visited by cruise ships, since the big pots can not be put here. And the Greeks love their Naxos, where they spend their holidays with their families. Right enough!

Taking a little nap on my suite balcony, accompanied by a glas of Champagne

Back on the boat my stressed feet ask for a time-out: I tail the Pilates-hour in the fitness area and relax on my private balcony. The only noise accompanying me is the rattling of the anchor chain, which is thinned to leak. And the popping of my bottle of champagne, which I now finally open and, with sea view, enjoy. It stops after one glass, because it goes immediately to the gin tasting, in which five gin sorts can be tasted. Now, Gin is not exactly one of my favorite drinks. A sample sip and lots of stories around the juniper schnapps, which is interestingly not in England, but in the Philippines worldwide the most consumed.

The gin tasting is offered for free, in which five gin sorts can be tasted

Friends of the Caviar have marked the Thursday red in the calendar: Thursday is Caviar Night on MS Europa 2 and thus a reason for the only possible queue, which can form on the ship. On this evening, I am actually agreed in the sushi restaurant “Sakura”, but take a trip to the caviar buffet and treat myself at the same time also with some fresh oysters. Add to this a delicious California roll. What a wonderful, culinary mess! In the theater, the New York dance company “The Tap Factor” shines with a quilting performance with an infectious effect: the dance floor in the “Sansibar” is then rocked decently and DJ Pro-Mo plays my favorite song “Meet me half way” by the Black Eyed Peas, which he organized for me. Kind? Kind! Next Stop: Nauplia, 139 nautical miles away.

Thursday evening, the Caviar-Night, there is rush due to the kilo-cans of caviar

Day 4

Do you actually get seasick, I am asked often. Answer: Yes, on small boats. On big ships, It takes storm force 9 for me to feel queasy. The MS Europa 2 has its stabilizers in rough seas, which reduce the rolling movement of the ship during lateral waves, which can be a real advantage in the months of July and August. For in the high summer strong north winds dominate here, which can make the Aegean crazy. At the beginning of June it is fortunately not a concern! Once again, I jump out of bed early and into the 15 meter long pool. A short round swim, at this time only used by one lonely swimmer.

Breakfast in the bathrobe on my suite balcony:

Tea, orange juice and fresh fruit, scrambled eggs with bacon (yummy!), croissants and Danish pastries. Sunshine and an amazing view on top

Just in time at nine I hear some knocking on my door, the room service comes and serves an opulent breakfast on my balcony. Delicious croissants, fresh orange juice, scrambled eggs with bacon and my beloved “Morgentau”-tea from Ronnefeldt. This is the taste of holiday! Unfortunately, I do not even get half of these delicacies, which may be quite good, because there is a fast zodiac tour on the program – motorized high-speed inflatable boats going through the bay and along the steep rocky coast of Nauplia. Afterwards, the boat goes to the mainland for my small country expedition through Nauplia town. By the way, the main cities of the Greek islands always carry the island name. I stroll through Nauplia’s old town and am amazed by the differentness of this island. Here one can feel the former Italian influences, not just in the architecture, which wraps the pretty house facades with their window shutters in colorful colors. More to come on MyStylery!

Down into the depths: The first tender boat is launched to take passengers on shore

Phew! With 32 degrees it is quite hot on Nauplia and I’m glad to escape the midday heat. Let’s go back to MS Europa 2, what many of the passengers do at lunch time. I’m ready for a relaxed snack. If you like freshly grilled, go to the grill station in the restaurant Yacht Club. I enjoy gilthead, followed by a portion of Mozart Praline ice cream. Mmmhhh! Now a lunch break would be a good idea. No time. Unfortunately. Because I have not seen so much on board yet. Neither the cooking school nor the playing field, the cinema or the golf simulator. Instinctively, I land in the boutique and submit the assortment to a quick check. Who has forgotten his cashmere sweater at home, finds one here for cool evenings on the deck guaranteed: Shop ’til you drop!

A little closer to the sky: the glass roof above the MS Europa 2 seawater-pool is opened at good weather

On my tour I hardly meet fellow travelers. Some relax on the decks, others may be on land. I never feel like being surrounded by a lot of people, which is certainly because the MS Europa 2 has the largest room offer per passenger on a cruise ship. If you are looking for loneliness on board, I recommend the aft deck of the spa area, which is hardly visited in this heat. Also on the other decks it goes relaxed, with a bit luck you find a place in the chic shell-cots of Dedon. Stewards serve refreshments, tea, coffee and iced tea variations are free on board.

A culinary highlight is the freshly baked waffles with cherries and vanilla ice cream

A culinary highlight is the freshly baked waffles, which are served in the afternoon on the pool deck. Every day with a changing topping or the classic: cherries with vanilla ice cream. But since I soon “must” eat again, I enjoy half a portion! My farewell at the restaurant “Tarragon”, the French brasserie of MS Europa 2. At beef tartar and lamb fillets a small resumée of my trip. It was nice, though (too) brief. Because at night, we arrive at the port of Athens, the last leg of my small cruise.

My farewell at the restaurant “Tarragon”, the French brasserie

MyStylery’s Conclusion:

A cruise can be much more than I initially thought. I like the relaxed atmosphere on board very much, as well as the contemplative life on board. Even though this is different from the sailings of my childhood, where I have often seen nothing but water for days. At some destinations I get first insights from the country and people, which can be deepened on a next trip. Concerning other destinations, I felt the length of stay was sufficient. Many impressions I take with me and am now looking forward to my stay in Athens. To mention the financial aspect: exclusivity has its price – with just under 5,000 Euros per person for a one-week trip.
I was so excited about my little cruise and was not disappointed. MS Europa 2 – I’ll be back. Until then I say ship, ahoy!  BvH

The MS Europa 2 in front of the Greek island of Naxos

The tender boats – like here in front of Naxos – are running 20 minutes between MS Europa 2 and the mainland

I explore the island of Naxos in the afternoon on a 25 kilometer long bike tour. Of course I wear a helmet

Back on board I am greeted with a refreshing juice and a cool towel. What a service!

Apropos drink: One of the popular champagne tasting is on the agenda. Price from 90 Euros

The sudden fog has something magical and veils the passing islands

Ready for dinner: Sushi and Sashimi at “Sakura”-Restaurant

… The caviar night the same evening I can not miss …

… Just as the beautiful sunset

Good to know:

Waste into the sea? No way! MS Europe 2 has a sewage treatment plant. Inorganic waste such as glass is shredded or plastics are compacted and disposed of on land. Waste packaging waste is chilled and paper burned directly on board.

If you need more space than in the 35 square meters large veranda suites, book a suite of the other six categories. For example, the owner or penthouse suites. They are situated in the upper decks, offer up to 114 square meters (including porch) and include, if desired, a butler service

Here’s a view into my bathroom, which is equipped with bathtube and shower

Forgot your floss? Do not worry! Here’s everything you need

The Zodiac fleet of MS Europa 2 – named after Hamburg’s districts

On a Zodiac tour the wearing of the life jacket is mandatory

Beautiful ship: The MS Europa 2 shooted from zodiac-perspective

In the small, but fine gym, the many calories on board can be burned on Technogym equipment – again with a wonderful view to the turquoise water

Shopping in the board boutique: Liebeskind, Escada, Hilfiger. Shop ’til you drop – but for customs reasons however only on sea days

In the mood for a shuffleboard tournament under the Greek sun and view to the bay of Nauplia?

The MS Europa 2 is popular with families with children: there is a kids- and teens club and family suites. The parents then enjoy their time off on the loungers

The motto aboard the MS Europa 2: “Luxury in casual ambience”

On the sun deck, Steward Mohamad serves cold refreshments – in the background, Dedon’s cozy daybeds

At the icecream buffet: Even if the impression is made, I have not only been eating on board the MS Europa 2

Please disinfect hands before entering onboard restaurants! Nowhere do bacteria germinate faster than on cruise ships

Cruise News:

Hapag-Lloyd Cruises has commissioned the construction of two luxury expedition ships in the five-star segment, the Hanseantic Nature and the Hanseatic Inspiration, which will be launched in 2019.

Below the bridge – the command center of the ship – I observe the departure

Reflections of the front ship in the bridge’s windows …

… From there you can watch the berthing

The porthole and I

Two florists care for fresh flower arrangements on MS Europa 2

Again round forms that remind you beeing on a ship …

… also good to capture reflecting sunsets

A small resumée of my trip by beef tartar …

… and lamb fillets: It was nice, though (too) brief

The tugboat tows the MS Europa 2 at night to the berth in Athens

MyStylery ready for departure – disembarkation – as it is called in the language of the sailors

αντίο – bye, bye, MS Europa 2

Contact MS Europa 2:

www.hl-cruises.de

I was invited to this cruise as part of a blogger trip by Hapag-Lloyd Cruises.

The post My cruise aboard the MS Europa 2 – Part II appeared first on My Stylery.

Passing Rhodes’s historian city wall and the marina to MS Europa 2

Half of my childhood I spent on the sea. As a captain for a Hamburg shipping company, my father drove a reefer ship, so-called banana boats, on whose decks I learned to walk and later spent my school holidays on. Atlantic, Caribbean, Pacific – on the world’s oceans around the world. In the opinion of my old master, cruise ships did not count to the true sea voyage. “Floating hotels” was his succinct commentary. The more exciting I was on my first cruise on the MS Europa 2, a 225-meter-long passenger steamer of the luxury category with room for 500 passengers. Our course: from Rhodes to Athens, a five-day short trip through the Greek Aegean. MyStylery’s diary in four chapters.

The old, four-kilometer-long city wall of Rhodes town, a Unesco World Heritage

Day 1

I leave Berlin at 30 degrees and bright sunshine and land on Rhodes in the southern Aegean Sea with rainy 20 degrees and grey sky. At the airport a friendly English-speaking taxi driver picked me up, who proved to be a perfect tour guide on the half-hour drive to the port. We pass the old, four-kilometer-long city wall of Rhodes town with its towers, fortress bastions and tombs before the driver drops me off at the berth of the MS Europa 2 directly in front of the gangway. When I arrive at the port, I pass security checks along with hand luggage – a procedure like at every airport. And soon I have the first bubbly in the hand, while I am at the front desk on deck 4 check in.

Rezeption and Lobby welcome guests with modern, luxurious design

My Veranda Suite: One of a total of 251 suites on the MS Europa 2

When I enter my 35 square meter porch suite (with outside balcony!) on deck 5, my luggage is already there. A fast service, which I miss in several luxury hotels. A short cabin scan: For the suite design, the Interior-team combined high-quality materials in beige and off-white tones with light wood. At the top of my favorites list is the walk-in wardrobe with lots of storage space. The spacious, mosaic-tiled bathroom with shower, bathtub and a generous range of personal care products is also available. My personal highlight is however the outside balcony. Here I will later bottle my bottle of welcome champagne, I suppose. Two hours to the sea rescue exercise – enough time for a small country trip through Rhodes’s enchanting old town. What I am experiencing here, I will soon report in a Rhodes extra.

There is enough time for a small country trip through Rhodes’s enchanting old town

Back on board, there is hardly time to air-sweep, because I am already in my orange-colored rescue vest, in which I look a bit like SpongeBob and just hear the security officer say that straighteners and curling irons from the cabin steward are collected as possible burners. Good to know! And yes, there is room for each of the 500 passengers in rescue boats: one should listen carefully, if the ship horns sound seven times short and once long. In the next round trip, over the seven passenger decks, past the pool, the six specialty restaurants, various bars, including the Sansibar, the theater and the jazzclub, the gentile and the spa, I wonder where I am right now? Ah, yes, at the MS Europa 2. Of a ship reminds me here at most the view outside. Would I be able to get around without the discreet signs on board?

Me as SpongeBob in my rescue vest. You can not alway look good

In the evening I dine in the Asian “Elements”, one of six specialty restaurants, which are all included in the price, but require a previous reservation. A passenger of the MS Europa 2 will hardly suffer a famine, because the food is eaten theoretically around the clock and at a high level. If you miss the essence, go for club sandwich, pasta or sansibar’s legendary currywurst to the bar of the same name, or order the 24/7 roomservice. After the dinner, the passenger awaits the nightly entertainment in the theater: On the program “Musical Moments”. A showact – without a show. I do not worry. The actual theater takes place outside. At 11 o’clock local time, we set off under triple, penetrating ship horn’s signal and the ship’s own song „We are the sun“. Next stop: Santorini.

Mmmhhh: Lobster with papaya salad in the “Elements” restaurant

Distance from Rhodes to Santorini: 48 nautical miles. Bye, bye Rhodes!

Day 2

The early bird catches the worm, I tell myself, when my alarm clock dries me at 6 o’clock in the morning from the bunk – the very comfortable master-bed. From here I can look at the sea and watch as the MS Europa 2 seems to float above the water. I go to my balcony and look at the sunrise. This pink-gold shimmering light that blends the smooth sea and the sky into one. I listen to the water and the waves. And there it is, this typical, so familiar, deep-roaring engine noise of the ship that I know so well from my childhood memories, on whose quest I have been. Feelings of happiness.

View from my Veranda Suite and sunrise over Santorini in the morning at 6 o’clock

With the elevator I reach deck 10, sit on the daybed and look at the islands that have passed. No one can be seen far and wide. The ship belongs to me. The rugged, brown rocks of Santorini are already visible, and the outline of the white houses with the famous blue domes, which stretch over the hills of the still active volcanic island, like pearls on a cord. Underneath I hear cutlery rattles from the “Yacht Club” restaurant. At this time you get one of the coveted outside seats.

Very coveted: An outside table with “sea-feeling” at the “Yacht Club” restaurant

My stomach is ready and suddenly I am already at the seemingly one hundred meters long breakfast buffet and before the agony of choice: I say no to egg dishes, the many bread and rolls, the salmon and sausage variants, the cheese buffet and other seductions. With muesli and fresh fruit, a green smoothie and “morning dew”- tea, I watch as the MS Europa 2 drives in front of Santorini, because there is no free berth for the ship.

From my Veranda Suite I see the rocks of Santorini – in the back I can see the outline of the white houses with the famous blue domes

One of the two 2 ton heavy anchors is let into the water under a powerful dive. A short time later, the first tender ship will be equipped with passengers who are equipped with a landing gear. I’m there and no 15 minutes later on Santorini. The island of Cyclades corresponds to the dream of a travel treasure prophecy, which I discover by bus and by foot. My tips and To do’s for Santorini I tell you in a special about the island. At this point only so much: Without hat, sunglasses, light protection factor 50 and some patience with the crowds of Asian travel groups nothing is possible here.

Santorini is the dream of a travel treasure prophecy

Had I already mentioned it? We left the bad weather front of Rhodes behind us. Instead pleasant 25 degrees, which let me enjoy my lounger on my suite balcony in the afternoon for the first time. As soon as I’m a little dozed off, it means to get changed for the evening program. Apropos change: The dresscode on board MS Europa 2 is very relaxed and casual. Surely, flip-flops in the evening are a no-go, but the tie can stay at home, too. Well-dressed women are always a feast for the eyes, so my tip for the ladies: grab your favorite dress or white pants with a chic tunic and leave the big robe.

Before going to the restaurant “Serenissima”, I enjoy the golden light of the sunset

In my currently favorite outfit, I walk to the “Serenissima” for dinner, go for the care of the friendly staff and a culinary journey through Italy: antipasti, homemade pasta and lobster on artichokes. There is always a fresh sorbet on the MS Europa 2, which is optionally filled with vodka or champagne. Guess what I choose?

And again lobster: this time with artichokes. Delicious!

Those who prefer to go ashore have the opportunity to do such until 11.30pm. Then the last tender boat goes from Santorini to the MS Europa 2, before we start at midnight with starry skies and calm sea to Naxos. A last look at the flashing lights in the hills of Santorini, before I review the day with my bedtime candy – white cranberry chocolate with red pepper. BvH

Read part II of my cruise experience, coming soon. Here are some more impressions for you …

Berth in Rhodes harbor: The MS Europa 2 with its eleven decks

My Veranda Suite: The suites are all equipped with internet-enabled TV, Samsung Tablet PC, telephone, included minibar, hairdryer and save. A Nespresso machine is available to the guest, free of charge. But unfortunately no tea! Too bad you did not think of tea drinkers like me

The MS Europa 2 runs under the Maltese flag

A visit to the Captain of MS Europa 2 on the bridge. Why Christian van Zwarmen is going to sea, although he wanted to become an architect, you will read in the interview – coming soon on MyStylery.com

View from the ship’s bridge to Rhodes’s old town and a chic private yacht

Also nice: The marina of Rhodes

In the evening we go to the sushi restaurant “Sakura” …

… or to Asian restaurant “Elements”…

…or into the restaurant “Weltmeere”…

… or to the restaurant “Serenissima” – four out of a total of six board restaurants on the MS Europa 2 …

…where one can eat homemade Spaghetti Vongole

How about a nightcap at the Jazzclub?

Good to know:

13 to 20-day long-haul travels are offered during the winter months, while the MS Europa 2 travels on seven-day, combinable journeys during the summer. A one-week trip through the Aegean costs 4,920 Euros per person in the Veranda Suite including flight.

Blue hour at the Sansibar…

… a cooperation with the legendary Sansibar on Sylt island, to which this XXL-photo reminds …

…and where Barkeeper Mehmet mixes great Cocktails

Performances every evening in the theater of MS Europa 2

Morning mood infront of Santorini dipped from my Veranda Suite

Favorite place on the aft deck with cool daybeds

21 knots maximum speed drives the MS Europa 2, which has been traveling on the world’s sea since 2013

Cruises are becoming more and more popular: over the next ten years some 60 new ships will be built. Nevertheless, only 0.2% of all ships worldwide are cruise ships

Early morning bird – Not once do I feel that 500 passengers are on board

On the MS Europa 2 there are enough beach chairs. Linen provided with towels are frowned upon and the towels are removed accordingly

Early getting up was worth it: the ship belongs to me!

The glass roof above the pool of MS Europa 2 is opened at good weather

I can’t get enough of the blue Aegean!

With the tenders it goes straight over to Santorini. What I experience there, I tell you in one of the next stories here on MyStylery! Don’t miss part II of my cruise on MS Europa 2

Contact MS Europa 2:

www.hl-cruises.de

I was invited to this cruise as part of a blogger trip by Hapag-Lloyd Cruises.

The post My cruise aboard the MS Europa 2 appeared first on My Stylery.

The arrival of the guests infront of the magnificent Staatsoper in Vienna, where the annual Opera Ball takes place. Photo: Wiener Staatsoper

Who doesn’t dream of it? One time hovering over the parquet of the Vienna Opera Ball in a roaring robe in three-fourths. For me this dream came true this year – including stage table with unobstructed view over opera stage and boxes.

The “proof of legitimation” of the evening: My opera ball ticket and my entry permit

The Vienna Opera Ball is by all accounts a great event that must be thoroughly prepared. Entrance tickets and lodges must be requested and booked in advance (by writing), as well as hotel and arrival. While the gentlemen appear in tailcoats, the question of clothes for the ladies is certainly one of the most central ones. A dress for the opera ball has to be long, an elegant robe, which underlines every own type. It was quite interesting how variable the term elegance was interpreted by the ladies. And please no doppelgangers! The nightmare par excellence, when you suddenly face your dress. I chose a dream robe of dark green velvet from the Munich design duo Talbot Runhof, in which I felt very comfortable.

My look for the Vienna Opera Ball: A décolleté emphasized robe in dark green velvet by Talbot Runhof. A clutch from Bottega Veneta and high heels by Jimmy Choo

The Vienna Opera Ball probably polarizes like no other social event. Degraded to a boulevard event in some places, where guests of all kinds and VIP categories romp about, the Vienna Opera Ball is considered the most elegant tradition of the Donau metropolis. And rightly so. The splendid halls of the state opera that have been opened in 1869 provide a perfect setting, and the opulence of the festively decorated rooms make the “k.u.k.” era lively. What an honor!

Dense crowds around the red carpet, where the arrival of the celebrities was observed and commented

The grande dame of the Opera Ball Elisabeth Gürtler handed the scepter over to her successor, Maria Großbauer, who for the first time was responsible for the overall organization as well as this year’s motto “All Opera”, including the guest list. Among them was the architect Jean Nouvel (Les Galleries Lafayettes Berlin), the head of the IMF (International Monetary Fund) Christine Lagarde, publisher Liz Mohn and billionaires widow Ingrid Flick. But also colorful birds such as building contractor Richard Lugner, who flies in well-known personalities from the USA for a lot of cash – this year’s actress Goldie Hawn. As well as former participants of the RTL jungle camp. It is this special guest mix that makes the evening a dazzling one. To see and to be seen and a bit of gossip.

At the Opera Ball Dinner at the Hotel Sacher: Cheers to a bouncing ball night!

For me the evening started with a champagne reception, followed by an exclusive, delicious five-course meal in the green salon of the Sacher Hotel, where I also stayed. What a luxury, just in terms of the short distances. At 9:30 pm we went to opera house opposite the hotel, where the 5,000 guests of the ball floated on the left and right of the red carpet over the grand staircase (main stairs) that were festively decorated by lush floral arrangements. Passing by flashes of lightning and cameras, the ball visitors spread out on the five floors of the opera house. At 10 pm, the ball was opened in the presence of Austria’s just elected German President Alexander van den Bellen and Federal Chancellor Christian Kern.

Too beautiful: The opening waltz of the debutants

When the 144 debutants arrived, I became a little sentimental. Actually, my oldest daughter was supposed to take part in the opening, but unfortunately she sustained a torn ligament and could therefore not participate in the extensive and elaborate rehearsals of the debut. The young ladies – all in white evening dresses – wore a Swarovski diadem designed by Karl Lagerfeld this year. Each one looked like a princess, simply adorable! The ballet of the state opera enchanted with a performance and the subsequent performance of star-tenor Jonas Kaufmann did not only inspire me. Then it was finally time for the “All Waltz” – left to the left, of course – and the orchestra played until the early morning.

The imposing Grand Hall in the shape of an ellipse with its many boxes and ranks, which extend over five floors

Strolling around is part of the event, even for the guests of a lodge. Because there was program on all levels of the opera house. One could try ones luck in the casino, in the basement disco or take part in one of the popular quadrilles dance in the Great Hall. There were culinary servings from “slow food” to the classic sausage. The cloakroom of the philharmonics converted itself into a wine venue; the legendary Viennese Café Zum Schwarzen Kameel was represented with a branch as well as the best Austrian winemakers with seven wine bars. By happenstance I accidentally got into the staff canteen in the catacombs of the opera at an advanced hour. Opera stars, stage workers and ball guests sat together with liver cheese pies and beer (or a last champagne), and rested their tired feet. At five o’clock the ball of all the balls came to an end. It was already bright outside and the birds began to chirp. What a memorable night! BvH

The Red Carpet is reserved for VIPs at the Vienna Opera Ball. All other guests enter the Opera House on the left and right side

About the 61st Vienna Opera Ball:

An entry ticket for the Vienna Opera Ball 2017 costs 290 euros, a box between 10,000 and 20,500 euros; A table between 400 and 1,200 euros. Tickets for the dress rehearsal cost 25 euros, seating cards between 30 and 60 euros. Drinks and meals are not included in the price.

In the Opera foye, the motto is “seeing and being seen”

How to survive:

1.) Do not appear with an empty stomach, eat something in advance

2.) It is warm in the lodges. Therefore do not forget a hand fan

3.) Before ordering ask for the price of the drinks: The bottle of champagne costs 500 euros

4.) Take flat shoes (eg ballerinas) as a substitute. From 3 o’clock in the morning this isn’t a sin of style

5.) Take the “Libretto” opera ball-book which includes an overview of rooms, music, culinary and service

Among the guests opera diva Anna Netrebko with her husband Yusif Eyvazov

MyStylerys Tipp I:

Even though the loge first appears to be the “best place”, I recommend a stage table. From there all participants have a wide-ranging view, which in comparison a lodge only provides from the front places.

MyStylerys Tipp II:

By the way: If you would like to lodge in one of the 149 rooms in the neighboring Sacher Hotel, you should already request for the 2018 Opera Ball.

Ready to rumble: My hubby and I well prepared

The Green Salon at the Hotel Sacher: Here I enjoyed the Opera Ball menu. And yes, green is my color!

Just a look at the menu …

… and the dessert with chocolate variations

General tension before the entry of the debutants

The Orchestra of the Vienna State Opera

Space with a view: From my stage table I could enjoy a wide-ranging view …

… including the performance of the Corps de Ballet of the Vienna State Opera:

… which was flanked and amazed by the debutants on the right and left of the stage

The Great Hall with its boxes. In the middle, the Emperor’s lodge, in which the Austrian Federal President Alexander van den Bellen and Federal Chancellor Christian Kern were placed

Elegant ball visitors: designer Lena Hoschek (left) in a beautiful, simple self-creation

It’s all about waltz! Whoever looks closely, recognizes me in the middle ;-)))

Various film teams looking for successful and less successful wow outfits, spectacular VIPs and of course some gossip

What an elegant and splendid location for the specially built casino: under the chandelier one could try his luck

Once a princess with a crown: Chanel-Designer Karl Lagerfeld created for Swarovski the beautiful diadem of the debutants with with 394 crystals. Photo by Wiener Staatsoper

…At five in the morning I said bye bye! What a devine night!

Contact Vienna Opera Ball:

wiener-staatsoper.at

Merken

Merken

Merken

The post It’s all about waltz: The Opera Ball in Vienna appeared first on My Stylery.

Everyone wants to be there and take the opportunity once to wander over water

It’s good to have friends everywhere. Particularly if they then also have a house at Lake Iseo, where the American environmental artist Christo has just covered half of the lake. Lago what? I do know the Lago di Como and Lake Lugano, but must confess that I had never heard of the fourth largest of the Italian lakes. Last weekend, our friends asked us to join their terrace party above the lake, from where we were able to see Christos art, ‘The Floating Piers’ on the water from an optimum perspective. An occasion to which all faces from the international art world show up and since its start on June 18*, already more than 500,000 art enthusiasts from around the world made pilgrimages to this contemplative place Sulzano.

Lake Iseo measures at its lowest point 250 meters and extends over a length of 25 km

Since Christos projects ‘The Gates’ 2005 in New York and the veiled Berlin Reichstag in 1995, which he realized with his wife Jeanne-Claude, who died in 2009, the Floating Piers must be the largest and probably the last wrapping project of the 81 years old artist. In 2014, Christo and his team chose the by Bergamo Alps framed, picturesque Lake Iseo. Here Christo installed three kilometer long bridges that connect Sulzano with the islands Monte Isola and San Paolo. The special feature of this floating pontoons is the yellow-orange material which conceals the lands and optically connects the mainland by another one and a half kilometer pedestrian paths in Sulzano and Monte Isola.

Majestically, the Monte Isola overtops the Lake Iseo, it is the largest island in a southern-European inland lake

The influx of visitors – even for the organizer – is larger than expected: more than 55,000 visitors crowd through the narrow streets of Sulzanos every day, and wait patiently at temperatures of 35 degrees partly up to four hours before they can enter the Floating Piers. In the evening, the situation relaxes a little and I was able to enter the Floating Piers without queuing for hours. What a great atmosphere! The low sun made the yellow-orange fabric that was manufactured by a German company, shine. So did the faces of the visitors, who gratefully enjoyed the refreshing breeze after extreme waiting hours in the heat. The atmosphere was so nice, all somehow in a good mood: What a Happening!

MyStylery in action

I walked barefoot on the Floating Piers, wanted to feel the catchy and yet soft surface of the substance. Delightful, this permanent, gentle swinging, that intensified when the patrol lifeboats drove past. Enjoying the view of the mountains and the sightlines of Piers, with slightly fluctuating waves, although I already had mainland under my feet again. The Floating Piers are an appeal to all senses, an absolute highlight, although a temporary one, as all events of Christo are limited in time. On July 3, the show is over, then the Floating Piers are degraded and in the idyllic Sulzano – and the house of my friends – returns to ease.  BvH

View on the shore of Sulzano

Idyllic Sulzano: Here is the access to the Floating Piers

*Info Floating Piers:

Christo’s art installation ‘The Floating Piers’ can be seen for a total of 16 days. Those who want to reach the island Monte Isola and from there San Paolo by foot through the 16 -meter wide, floating in the water lands, can do that until July 3, 2016. After that the by Christo financed, 15 million expensive artwork, will be recycled. Admission is free.

The Lake Iseo is 100 kilometers east of Milan and lies 200 kilometers west from Venice

Tip:

Can’t be bothered to wait for hours? Then you have to get up early. In the morning at 6 am or after 8 pm the Floating Piers are less crowded. Around 10 pm the last visitors were able to enter the ridges. There is the possibility to visit the island Monte Isola by boat. Tickets for this should be booked online in advance.

The house of my friends at Lago D’Iseo

I am completely in love with the lush green of the lake

For Sulzano with its 1917 inhabitants there are usually two or three Carabinieri responsible. For Christos art happening, the police presence was substantially increased

100,000 square meters of dahlias and yellow, shimmering hightech material were processed …

… which had previously been made in Münster and sewn by a Lübeck company, both in Germany

Project Manager Wolfgang Volz, who accompanies Christo for many projects, photographs the visitors and gets celebrated

Wander over water

The village of Peschiera Maraglio – on the by the way car-free Monte Isola …

… enchants with romantic alleys and typical Italian houses …

… its picturesque harbor …

… and small cafés. Tip: With its idyllic location the Ristorante Al Castello looks very welcoming. Above the hotel Residence Castello Oldofredi is located

The island of San Paolo belongs to the Beretta family, the great Italian weapons manufacturer dynasty

The Villa of the Beretta family is secured as Fort Knox: Of course everyone is curious about how weapon-dealers probably live

What a gigantic magnet for visitors

Turn a blind eye: On the 16-meter-wide webs, stewards provide a regulated processes. Sitting down or even a picnic is normally not allowed here

And there’s the maestro himself on a special boat: Christo (with his snow-white hair above right) passes through the applauding crowd: Grazie and thank you, Christo!

By the way, the Floating Piers consist of 220,000 polyethylene cubes, each 35 centimeters high

Also this feathered lake resident likes the Floating Piers

Isn’t this the perfect color combination – my pink dress and glowing orange fabric of the Floating Piers

Scenic evening atmosphere and a beautiful sunset on Lake Iseo: what more could you want?

Contact:

www.thefloatingpiers.com

The post The Floating Piers on Lake Iseo appeared first on My Stylery.