The Outdoor pool of Bleiche Resort & Spa in the winter time. Of course heated…

One and a half hours drive from Berlin, lies the Hotel Bleiche Resort & Spa in Brandenburg Spreewald. Here the outdoor pool in summer

To encapsulate right away: with this story I’m neither looking for the not yet found hair in the soup, nor am I the investigative journalist finding something previously undiscovered. This text is my personal homage to a place and its landscape, which has grown on me over the years and my many visits: the Hotel ‘Bleiche Resort & Spa’ and the Brandenburg Spreewald.

The Bleiche is always decorated according to the season …

… here the ‘Grünes Gewölbe’-Restaurant in Christmas decoration

Every time the rumble of wooden planks wakes me up when passing the driveway to the hotel grounds and the red-white boarded wooden facade in front of me opens, when I walk into the hotel lobby and hear the splashing of the fountain, then I know: I have arrived. My Berlin-stress I leave at the front desk, am grateful to not have to fill in any incredibly long forms, or being asked for either a credit card or if I had a “pleasant journey”.
“It’s great you’re here.” Here, I don’t have to do anything. Here I simply am.

Arrival: In the lobby of the Hotel Bleiche Resort & Spa it ripples from the impressive fountain

By now, I’ve got my little rituals, which I sometimes pursue more, sometimes less: I let myself drift, I let go, enjoy the sweet idleness. Sometimes I swim my laps in the outdoor pool before breakfast; usually I sleep till all hours. The breakfast in the ,Grünem Gewölbe’ (‘green vault’), I am celebrating extensively with seven minute egg and morning tea ‘Morgentau’. Even at 12 noon that is still possible here. I read the newspaper (which I ‘m rarely able to do at home), which I can find by my bedroom door every morning.

Here I’m having breakfast in the ‘Grünes Gewölbe’ (Green Vault):

I love morning tea ‘Morgentau’, seven minute egg, whole wheat bread, croissants, cheese, melon and – believe it or not – Spreewaldgurke (‘Spreewald cucumber’)

One look into the eyes of my two four-legged travelling companions and it’s decided: Off it goes into the nature, past fields and canals. The network of adjacent trails can also wonderfully be explored by biking or jogging. When it rains, I confine my outdoor activities into the hotel’s private, 17-hectare park, in which my doggies have already chased one or two balls. Then I limber up with some tea and homemade cakes, discover an interesting book title in the well-stocked book shop or exceptionally check out my mails, which is only possible in this one area, because there’s no Wi-Fi in the rooms.

Regulars Willi and Franz in the provided baskets. Here one also takes lovingly care of the four-legged guests

Then I slip into the bathrobe and keep wearing it for the time being. Here, everyone is the same wearing the bathrobes, whether they’re called Heike Makatsch, Model Eva Padberg or German actor Matthias Schweighöfer. My range of motion involved the route room – spa – room. By the way: with 5,000 square meters it is one of the largest spas in Europe. In my opinion, it’s also one of the finest.

Swiming, while watching the crackling fire in the fireplace – where do you find something comparable?

Many spas reduce their appearance on the mere expediency, as if the applications were processed like illness certificates: indoor swimming pools with tiles up to the stop and above all a pungent smell of chlorine. In the Bleiche, it scents like fireplaces, like lumbers, herbs and apples. A treat for my nose, used to capital odors. Apart from this, there are plenty of chairs, cozy sofas, inviting sitting areas with comfortable wicker chairs, in which I do like to sink into, because a sauna, massages and Haman are well known to be quite tiring. My favorite room? Clearly and absolutely unrivaled: The ,Kräuterkammer’ (‘herbal chamber’), a around 45 degrees tempered sauna, very cozy like a mountain lodge. How many hours have I probably already spent here?

The ,Kräuterkammer’ (‘herbal chamber’), a around 45 degrees tempered sauna in the wellness area, very cozy like a mountain lodge

I lie and listen. Sometimes to the sounds of classical music – in the large indoor swimming pool also under water – sometimes the chirping of crickets, the inhabitants of ancient timbers. For me, this is the most beautiful way of meditation, even though it is also offered here professionally: With or without singing bowl. Speaking of lying: On the big screen of the professionally equipped cinema, there run three movies daily, many that I always wanted to see before. Here I finally get the opportunity in XXL wide loungers.

Wherever I go, inviting sitting areas always await

The decor is right up my alley: sophisticated country-house style, using French linen, rough wood and roughly plastered cob walls, combined with selected antiques and a pleasant lighting concept. It’s the passion for detail that I like so much and this is actually what’s the real secret of the Bleiche. Here and there are a couple of candlesticks, vases and stacks of books. All wisely collected in legwork and over the years by the Bleiche-owners – the Clausing family.

Traditional decoration ‘Herrgottswinkel’ in the cheese chamber

In the evening I preferably sit in the cozy ,Fischerstube’ (‘Fishers parlor’) or in the quaint ,Kahnschuppen’ (‘fishing boat shed’) – in the summer it’s also nice in beer garden under the old chestnut trees. Gourmets get indulged in star restaurant ,17fuffzig’. The food is delicious – I have never been disappointed. I love the Mosel Riesling from the winery ‘Kallfelz’ and especially a regional goat’s cheese at the end, which the rustic cheese chamber holds behind its doors. Maybe I treat myself with a nightcap at the bar. Maybe I’m still sitting at the large fireplace, looking into the fire and imagining how the linen fabrics for the ‘Old Fritz’* were bleached here more than 260 years ago. BvH
*nickname of Frederick the Great, King of Prussia

Here I can spend hours looking into the fire – and it never gets boring to me in any way

Tip:

Especially in fall or winter a boat trip is an experience, as you mainly have the channels for yourself and the pasture- and moorlands of the Spreewald are worth a look at – even in the cold season. Ask for Hagen, he is the best tour guide and knows all secrets and things to know.

Fancy a boat trip? The hotel’s boat harbor offers individual journeys – also during the winter season

Christmas Decor at Bleiche Resort & Spa

Summer impressions

In the beer garden, one can wonderfully sit under old chestnut trees

From the herb bed directly into the pot: Star chef René Klages gets his ingredients from the hotel’s herb garden

The secret of the Bleiche is the love for detail

In the book shop of the Bleiche, I love to rummage through the current book titles and make readable discoveries

Almost like home

Beautiful interior: One of the cottage suites with a private sauna, separate bedroom and living area

The beds are especially comfortable and cozy

Relaxing in the bathtub with a glass of Prosecco and candlelight – Good as it gets

Bye, bye, stress!

Me in bathrobe-mood in front of the fireplace by the indoor pool

The Whirlpool

A seperate bath and wading area for families with children

You simply do not want to leave

One out of eight restaurants: The ‘Weißbiereck’. Comfortable, right?

For cheese lovers this is the culinary paradise at Hotel Bleiche Resort & Spa: The cheese chamber

On a night cap at the bar …

… or again to the fireplace? The cozy atmosphere ensures a great feel-good factor

Contact Bleiche Resort & Spa:

Bleiche Resort & Spa
Bleichestraße 16
03096 Burg im Spreewald, Germany

www.bleiche.de

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Best of IBIZA LOVE

In this pub it all started over 60 years ago: Las Dalias in Sant Carles

I wonder whether the Spaniard Joan Mari would have ever expected that one crazy idea he had sixty years ago would now be the hot spot of the island of Ibiza and – for me – the world’s best hippie market! But first things first: In November 1954, Joan Mari, a farmer and carpenter Ibizan, opened a small bar, which he called Las Dalias. The whole neighborhood went on to Sant Carles to abut with the newly minted restaurateur. The beginning of a legend.

Stands under shadow spending palm trees

At that time, tourism did not exist in Ibiza. But the so-called Spirit of the island attracted power and aristocracy. Men like Aristotle Onassis and Prince Rainier of Monaco, who had already seen it all, came with their entourage to inhale the beauty of the island, because nowhere else they could find something as original and authentic as it was in Ibiza.

The „it-bag” of this summer: colorful cotton look in rainbow colors. Pretty and much cheaper than in German shops

In the 60s, the hippies came and with them Janis Joplin, Jimi Hendrix and Jim Morrison, followed by Bob Marley in the 70s. The beginning of flower power, peace- and freedom movement. And also the start of small stalls opening around Joan Mari’s little pub Las Dalias.

„Fig Tree“ is one of my favourite shops on the market of Las Dalias. Alba crochets fine cotton and hence beautiful bikins emerge, followed by bags and handmade jewelry: www.figtree-ibiza.com

Nina Hagen, David Bowie, Mick Jagger, Robert Plant, Bob Geldof, all got put under the island’s spell since then, and they have left their mark on the island and the market of Las Dalias. For the past 31 years, there is the hippie market Las Dalias – it is the most famous in Europe.

The idea of food trucks actually comes from California, but happens to be much liked in Ibiza as well

When Joan’s son Juanito took over in 1985, there were five stalls. Today there are more than 200 distributors who sell their goods under the bright blue sky of Ibiza, the cafes and restaurants invite you to siesta, the DJs play relaxing music, acrobats perform their stunts, there are live music acts.

Fancy for beach or shopping: The classic bast bag should not be missed and is available in thousands of varieties in Ibiza

And that attracts visitors in droves: in summer, every Saturday more than 20,000 visitors come to Sant Carles. These huge gatherings of crowds you either like or hate. And still, the special atmosphere you only have here. Only on the market of Las Dalias I would like to be a hippie myself and imagine how Nina Hagen and her associates have, back then, celebrated their never-ending parties. BvH

Mora is an artist and a relict of old hippie days. She can tell the best stories about the market: www.djin-mora.de

Here the DJ plays his music: Island groove around the clock

Looking for a new bed throw? Souvenirs can be found in each corner, such as these colorful cotton-plaids

In the antiquarian one can find books in all languages, also a collection of German titles

In love with the fringes suede scarf: This summer cannot happen without fringes, in Ibiza they belong to every outfit since the old hippie days

In Ibiza I become a hippie-girl and love to dress in this style, no matter if this look doesn’t work at home

Contact:
Las Dalias
Crta. Eivissa – San Carles, Km 12
Sant Carles de Peralta, Ibiza, Spain
+ 34 971 326825 // M. +34 661 234 672

May to October
Saturdays: 10am – 8pm
June to September
Mondays: Nightmarket 07pm – 01.30am

www.lasdalias.es

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Lake Como: Nestled in an impressive mountain landscape and lush, Mediterranean fauna

From the Upper Italian lakes at the southern edge of the Alps, Lake Como is the most beautiful to me. Nestled in an impressive mountain landscape and lush, Mediterranean fauna, Lake Como fascinates with its famous historic villas such as Villa Carlotta and Villa d’Este. They come partly from the 15th century and bear witness to the successful era when the silk industry settled in the region around Como. Around the lake, picturesque villages charm the visitor, here the time seems to have stopped. Pure romance and a charm that also attracts Hollywood: celebrities such as George Clooney, Madonna, Brad Pitt or Donatella Versace have their own holiday residences here.

In Como I walk through the narrow streets

My tour starts by the southern shore of Lake Como with a stroll through the old town of Como. In the Via Vittorio Emanuele II and the Via Indipendenza you will find numerous boutiques with Italian fashion. I walk through the narrow streets until I stand in front of the Como Cathedral, the third-largest cathedral in Lombardy. If you would like to have a view on the splendid cathedral facade, this is best done with an espresso in a Piazza Cavour café opposite the Cathedral.

The Comer cathedral was built from the 14th century and impresses with its filigree exterior façade and inside with precious gobbelins

The next stop along the west bank is called Cernobbio. A must for fans of the art nouveau is a trip to the Villa Bernasconi, a jewel of the Belle Epoque, where today’s exhibitions are shown. Famous is Cernobbio also because of the Villa d’Este, since 1873 a hotel of the luxury class, which was already visited by lot of celebrities. Just because of the garden and the temple, decorated with colorful pebbles mosaic, it is a worthwhile visit. If you are not willing to pay thousands of euros a night in the summer season, perhaps you can enjoy a Bellini at the lake terrace for 23 euros, enjoying the extravagant atmosphere and the sensational view of the turquoise water.

Famous and popular photo motif: Me infront of the temple of the luxury hotel Villa D’Este

We continue northwards to Menaggio. Here the ferry leaves for Varenna and Bellagio, in the summer every 40 minutes. (One car with two persons costs 15.50 euro). Passing the imposing villas, you can reach Bellagio, probably the most famous village on Lake Como, after a 15-minute passage. So famous that even the most popular hotel in Las Vegas is named after it. From the water you can see the elegant, pale yellow facade of Villa Serbelloni, a grand hotel with a beautiful park and a fantastic view of the lake.

Ahoi! On the ferry from Menaggio to Bellagio

I decide to have lunch on and enjoy a glass of rosé, buffalo mozzarella and Parma ham. That’s what Dolce Vita tastes like! Strengthened I now stroll through the Via Guiseppe Garibaldi, explore the winding streets on a hillside and admire the always surprising views of the Lago di Como. From Bellagio I take the SS538 road back to Como. The approx. two-hour route lures again and again with numerous viewpoints: stop, look, marvel.  BvH

Surrounded by lush wisteria: The terrace of the Hotels Florence in Bellagio

Lake Como tip I:

Want to see Lake Como from above? Then go to the small mountain village of Madrona at Monte Bisbone (1,328 meters high) on the west bank above Cernobbio. The course, popular with hikers and bikers, is rewarded with a breathtaking view over Lake Como and – on weekends – with homemade pasta in the Baita Alpe restaurant.

What a view: From the small mountain village Madrona at Monte Bisbone (1.328 Meter hoch) down to Lake Como

Tip II:

June to September are the best months for wind and kite surfing. The mountain world around Lake Como is also a paradise for hikers and mountain bikers.

The Lake Como is the perfect film backdrop. It was shot for Star Wars Episode II, Casino Royale and Ocean’s 12

Tip III:

Caution, penalty card: In Bellagio the car is best at the edge of the city. Parking in the center is expensive. I was asked to pay 140 euros for wrong parking.

Small hotels and restaurants line the shores of Bellagio

Good to know:

Como Lake (in Italian Lago di Como) is one of the eight Upper Italian lakes. “Lario” – as the locals call it – is 146 km², 55 km long and max. 4.2 km wide. Thus, after Lake Garda and Lake Maggiore, it is the third-largest lake in Italy. In the center, near the town of Bellagio, the lake divides in a southerly direction into two arms, each ending in the towns of Lecco and Como. The lake looks like a twisted Ypsilon. It is up to 410 meters deep, making it one of the deepest lakes in Europe.

The marina of Como

The Comer cathedral was built from the 14th century and impresses with its filigree exterior façade and inside with precious gobbelins …

… which can also be admired whilst having an espresso in one of the opposite located cafés at Piazza Cavour

Chic shopping in luxury boutiques at the cathedral square

Como’s old town

Great to stroll: In the old town of Como dominate pedestrian zones

Villa Bernasconi in Cernobbio …

… a jewel of the Belle Epoque …

… where today’s exhibitions are shown, like about the history of cashmere

Go swimming in Lake Como:

The luxury hotels around the lake have their own jetties from where you can jump into the green blue water. More tips for public beaches and hidden places can be found here: www.comersee-info.net

Many of the luxurious villas such as the Villa Carlotta or the Villa d’Este date back to the 15th century, when Lake Como became rich with the silk rape and the resulting silk industry

Tip: For Lunch join the terrace of Villa d’Este

We continue northwards to Menaggio

… from where the ferry leaves for Varenna and Bellagio

The elegant, pale yellow facade of Villa Serbelloni …

… with the Grandezza of a Grand Hotel

I love the small streets of Bellagio …

… where I spotted cosy bars …

… and inviting street cafés

A small detour to the cemetery of Bellagio. Arrivederci!

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Berlin’s new Asia restaurant: The Nithan Thai in Mitte on Chausseestraße

Since one year in Tel Aviv, now also in Berlin: Recently, in the middle on the Chausseestrasse, the Thai restaurant Nithan Thai opened its doors. I love the Asian cuisine and was especially excited about what awaits me. To start with, my culinary excursion was pretty much the best I’ve been able to enjoy lately.

The interior designers from Tel Aviv understand their craft

Right at the entrance of Nithan Thai, the visitor awaits a stylish ambience. The bar is located In the center of the 120 square meter restaurant, the walls are decorated with warm wood with matte brass elements, Asian art on brickwork, cozy seating groups on different levels. The interior designers from Tel Aviv understand their craft. This is also where the Chef Shahaf Shabtay comes from, who founded the Nithan Thai Restaurant in Israel’s trendy coastal town a year ago. Now Shabtay, who collected his culinary experiences in Japan, New York, Mumbai and Amsterdam, brought the royal Thai cuisine to the capital with international influences: a real enrichment.

My Favorite: The lightly fried ‘Thai Roll’ with sashimi of tuna and salmon and an unbeatable sesame sauce

To start with, I chose a refreshing, ‘Nithan Thai Fuzzy ‘cocktail with Riesling champagne. Then I got a hot cloth and a Kaffir-lime-leaf, which, when rubbed between the hands, unfolds its spicy-fresh fragrance. Amazing! What followed was a delicious menu of fish and meat dishes. In between a vegetarian corn soup and a papaya salad with coriander sauce. My Favorite: The lightly fried ‘Thai Roll’ with sashimi of tuna and salmon and an unbeatable sesame sauce.

Cozy seating groups inside the Nithan Thai

The menu of the Nithan Thai is based on five Thai cooking elements: under “Sunrise” you will find the starters. ‘Golden Sun’ stands for crisp fried and ‘water’ for fish dishes. ‘Sound’ offers grilled meats and ‘Inner peace’, everything what makes you stronger. The service team is friendly and fast. My wish for an extra portion of coriander was immediately fulfilled. The Maestro comes personally to the table and likes to tell you about the history and philosophy of offering food at star level but still at affordable prices.

Chiefs of the kitchen: Shahaf Shabtay and his right hand Ivana

Conclusion: Fish and meat were cooked perfectly. Sauces and side dishes are harmonious and not too dominant. It is the details that convinced me in the Nithan Thai. Before the dessert – a ‘Kaffir Semi Fredo’ with strawberries, raspberries and rosemary – was served, jasmine tea soaked dessert spoons come to the table. The spoons take on the delicate aroma of jasmine and thus create a very special taste experience. More is not possible. BvH

Jasmine tea soaked dessert spoons

Kaffir Semi Fredo – Strawberries,Rasberries, Rosmarine

Dum Brulee – Sesame, Mango, Mint

Not too much promised: ‘Nithan’ comes from the Thai and translates to fairy tales

Tam Ma-La-Ko: Green Papaya, Mango, Chukka Chili, Mint, Kaffir lime, Cashew, Akaya Cham sauce

Golden Gong – Crystal Shrimps, Moto Yogurt, Long Bean, Yakitori, Thai chili

The Nithan Thai offers guests lunch, dinner and the bar. Guests are also offered breakfast and a bakery

Vegetarian corn soup

Sea C Curry – Steam Stripe Sea Bass, Thai Tomatos, Kaffir Lime, Yam Chili, Shitake, Young Coconut

Pepper Beef – Wok Fillet, Garlic Palm Thai Style

The Nithan Thai with love to detail and on expansion course: Soon to open in Prague and New York

Love the ladies bathroom!

The extensive wine menu of the Nithan Thai offers German and international wines

Contact Nithan Thai:

nithanthai.de

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First impression of Warsaw: A lot of high buildings!

How did you get the idea to spend a weekend in Warsaw, my friend asked me surprised. The capital of Poland doesn’t really count to the top tips among the European destinations and is rather rarely visited by travelers. But Warsaw is a truly positive surprise and as a city trip highly recommended.

The Cultural Palace – Pałac Kultury i Nauki – the landmark of the city and a considerable Palazzo Prozzo

Once you get closer to Warsaw’s center you will first pass concrete wasteland that rather reminds of Berlin-Marzahn or Hamburg-Mümmelmannsberg. As in all former countries of the Eastern bloc the socialistic construction eternalized itself in the monumental buildings, especially in the Cultural Palace, which virtually stands out of the Warsaw skyline. The building that has been built in gingerbread style was once a present of Stalin to Poland and therefore still counts as sign of oppression for many Polish people today. For sure an imposing construction. It is especially the old town that fascinated me from the beginning of my trip. Warsaw’s center has been nearly completely destroyed during the Second World War. Only in the following decades the historical houses were reconstructed with a lot of love for detail.

Warsaw, the underestimated metropolis. Stare Miasto – the Old Town

The Polish capital is stronger connected to the era of the Second World War than any other city. Warsaw and its mainly Jewish inhabitants have suffered immeasurably under the terror of the Nazis. It was a special need to give me an idea of the former Warsaw Ghetto and its extent. Today bronze plates paved in walkways remind of the Ghetto wall, which stretched over three square kilometers in the district of Wola from 1940 onwards. A visit to the Museum of the Warsaw Uprising ‘Powstania Warszawskiego’ also gives a comprehensive impression of this gloomy chapter of Poland’s history. Here, the story is reproduced in a multimedia and impressive way.

Beautiful sightseeing and charming alley in the Old Town

After the museum visit and dispute of history I now particularly notice the beauty of Warsaw. Especially in the neighborhoods of Mostowa and Stare Miasto, with their filigreed, neoclassical and baroque house-facades. Everywhere you will find small cafés that invite you to linger. One drinks tea, coffee latte or one of the craft beers brewed in Poland, before I visit the memorial site of the composer Frédéric Chopin, where the heart of the Polish national composer is kept. Speaking of Chopin: fans of his music are recommended to see one of the open-air piano concerts that take place from May to September in Łazienki Park.

Trendy restaurant in the Mirow district: The ‘Winosfera’

It is well known that culture increases appetite for more. Those who love the hearty Polish cuisine are well served in traditional restaurants such as ‘Dawne Smaki’. In Warsaw, however, a young and modern culinary scene has also been established, such as restaurant ‘The Elephant’, which has recently been launched by Mystylery. The ‘Winosfera’ in the district Mirow is also very popular with its extensive range of wines. For a small drop-off, go to the ‘Panorama Sky Bar’ of the Marriott Hotel: simply enjoy great cocktails and the 360-degree view of the skyline of Warsaw. Then I fall tired into the bed of my hotel, the Sofitel Victoria in Warsaw’s Old Town. A smartly designed hotel with excellent service: I will certainly come back soon! BvH

The boulevard ‘Nowy Swiat’ is part of the former royal route and today counts to one of the great historic avenues of Warsaw’s Old Town

How to get to Warsaw:

From Berlin the best and fastest way is to go by plane with Air Berlin or by train in 5.5 hours

Today declared as World Cultural Heritage of Unesco: The Old Town of Warsaw

The Saint Kasimir Church on the ‚Ulica Freta‘ street

The ‘Ulica Mostowa’, with its colorful house-facades and cobblestones, looks as if time had stopped here

The Barbakane (town wall) was built in 1548 and is located at the transition from the Old Town to the New Town. At the beginning of the 15th century, the New Town, the district of the artisans, was founded

The Royal Castle at the Castle Square

The ‘Plac Zamkowy’ place with the Warsaw Castle

The Cultural Palace seems almost omnipresent. It just appears everywhere, no matter from where you look

Modern skyscrapers occurrence all over Warsaw – like the 220 meters high Warsaw Spire-Tower, which was still under construction during my visit

The Museum of the Warsaw Uprising ‚Powstania Warszawskiego‘:

Here, the story is reproduced in a multimedia and impressive way

In the Warsaw Ghetto, from 1940 until the deportation in the extermination camps, 450,000 people lived under the most adverse conditions. Today bronze plates paved in walkways remind of the Ghetto wall, which stretched over three square kilometers in the district of Wola

The Nozyk Synagoge in the ‘Ulica Twarda’ built in the style of neo-Romanesque neo-Byzantium in 1902, was used by the Nazis as a camp in 1941. The building was restored in 1977. It is the only pre-war synagogue in Warsaw

The only preserved street of the former Warsaw Ghetto in Mirow is the ‘Ulica Prozna’. Up to a few years ago, the bullet holes were still visible in the facades, which now shine in new splendor…

… Here, a young new scene now established, with many street cafés and galleries, such as the ‚Galeria Velt‘ and the Café ‚Prozna‘

Pretty hip: Warsaw reminds of the Berlin scene in some parts of the city and its street cafés

The halls of Mirowska: In these historical market halls you will find the true Poland. Fixed prices are rather an exception. May the bargaining begin!

Warsaw, what a beautiful city!

The main street of the New Town ‘Ulica Freta’ was built at the end of the 14th century and was once the trade route from Warsaw to the north

Those who love the hearty Polish cuisine are well served in traditional restaurants such as ‘Dawne Smaki’

In the garden of the restaurant ‚Dawne Smaki‘ you will be able to escape the big city and to enjoy Polish Piroggen – stuffed pastries. For dessert they serve fresh fruits with whipped cream

Nikolaus Kopernikus-monument on the ‘Krakowskie Przedmieście’ street

The Holy Cross Church on ‘Krakowskie Przedmiescie’ street …

The heart of Frédéric Chopin, which has been pickled in French cognac, has been resting in a pillar of the Holy Cross Church since 2010. The inscription on the memorial tablet reads: “For where your treasure is, there is your heart.”

What a beautiful light incident on the altar

Dziekuje – Thank you!

Warsaw doesn’t really count to the top ten of European hotspots. Wrongly, in my view!

Off to Warsaw!

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The post A perfect day in Warsaw appeared first on My Stylery.

IBIZA LOVE Part XIII

Best of MyStylery

Fills almost the entire Balinese-inspired roof structure: the gigantic chandelier

I have a little Ibiza-ritual that I want to share with you here: Any stay on my favorite island begins – and ends – with a meal in the restaurant Bambuddha. It is located a stone’s throw away from the finca, in which I like living, in the middle of the island on the road 733 towards San Juan. A beautiful tradition for years and it is always an unforgettable culinary experience.

The Restaurant Bambuddha seems like a Balinese bamboo cave: A place for cool people enjoying the relaxed atmosphere

Though the Bambuddha has meanwhile become an institution, a classic in the restaurant scene of Ibiza. As a well-traveled Hippie, the Anglo-Greek originated John Moon settled in Ibiza, where he founded the Bambuddha in 1999. His travels have inspired him and he succumbed to the Asian influences and temptations, which is reflected both in the menu, the interior design as well as in every other way: There are pools of erotic artifacts, the food is meant to have aphrodisiac effects, so of course do the cocktails like Bamboozles, Karmapirinhas or Shivalingas in the ‘Tantra Cocktail Palace’. And that there are appropriate sex-accessories in the restaurant shop, now doesn’t surprise anyone anymore.

Good for an aperitif or nightcap with the Ibiza sounds from the DJ: The ‘Tantra Cocktail Bar’

The Bambuddha has reinvented itself again and again over the years. Certainly one of the reasons why it is still in the top league of Ibiza’s restaurants. Three years ago, it was completely renovated and redecorated. Meanwhile son JonJon has taken the lead and together with the star chef Alejandro Martinez Arquero developed the menu with the ‘MediterrAsian’ courts – a Mediterranean-Asian fusion cuisine.

Oh, is this Bali? Buddha statues everywhere you look

And that is this year’s motto: What is cooked, comes on the table, whether the other starters or main courses are not ready to be served yet: My personal favorite is the papaya salad – simply unbeatable! Wonderfully tender is the 24-hours-stewed lamb or classics such as teriyaki salmon, Pad Thai and crispy duck. So can – and should – everyone try from each other’s dishes and thus has a greater taste sensation. A brilliant idea! Ibiza, I’ll be back as soon as possible and it cannot wait! BvH

I love the many daybeds and cozy corners that exist in Restaurant Bambuddha! So nice!*

Not a museum but a decoration in Bambuddha infront of the washrooms

The courtyard: How about an open air-cocktail?

Tantra Cocktail Bar

The ‘Tantra Cocktail Bar’ offers cool drinks – and one or another hot inspiration*

The guardians say goodbye to the guests: Bye bye Bambuddha, I see you soon!*

Contact Restaurant Bambuddha

Carretera de San Juan, km 8.5
07840 Santa Eulalia del Río
Ibiza, Spain

www.bambuddha.com

Featured pic and pics marked* by Bambuddha

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IBIZA LOVE Part VIII

Best of MyStylery

The bay of Benirras with breathtaking sunsets

Nowhere in Ibiza the beach, sunset and fine dining combine in such perfect harmony as in the beautiful bay of Benirras. It is my absolute favorite among the island beaches, although the sand quality of Benirras is not exactly top notch. Nevertheless, the bay with the obelisk rock provides an almost tropical feeling, and for me there is hardly a more beautiful place on the island, where I stay until the sun sinks into the sea.

The Restaurant Elements on the beach of Benirras is the perfect place for an unforgettable vacation

On the beach of Benirras is the Restaurant Elements. That’s right up my alley: The device acts like homemade with whitened, recycled wood elements, everything is open and airy – part of the concept of element boss Kiko Malcarne, an Italian, now resident on Ibiza: “Here, everything revolves around a native cuisine with fresh fish, salads and pasta. Our meals are prepared with high-quality products from the region.”

“One needs a lot of love to create something beautiful”. Kiko Malcarne

Beautiful vintage look: The furniture is made of whitewashed, recycled wood elements

I take him at his word and order sea bass in a salt crust, which is filleted at the table. For this purpose I choose grilled vegetables and my favorite Rosé Ibiskus. I look at the colors of the setting sun in the sky and feel like in paradise. Can there be anything more beautiful? The DJ puts on some tunes and I spend the evening in the lounge area. The first people start to dance, because I can’t stand back I dance barefoot in the sand. BvH

The lounge area in the Restaurant Elements. Here, the DJ puts on some tunes

Tip 1

How to fillet a fish perfectly in a salt crust

Tap salt crust with a cloth

Ahhh, the completely salt covered fish … here a sea bass

Release the fish from the salt and solve the skin …

Arrange the fillets, then remove the whalebone …

… Buen Provecho!

Elements Ibiza: News about the island

Tip 2

During the day, Elements offers yoga classes and massages in the spa area, how about the daily vitamin dose at the juice bar afterwards? The small boutique seduces to shop and I discover a sweet bikini, then worn right on the beach.

So wonderful that I can go shopping everywhere on the island. Also the Elements has its own, small boutique …

… for example these friendly grinning, colorful skulls …

… Beach towels and decorative jewelry

…and one more tip:

Sunday evening the beach of Benirras is the Eldorado of aging hippies and drum freaks. In high season, unfortunately already mutated into a tourist attraction of the official tour operators, the spectacle offers especially in the off-season a retro trip to ancient times.

A place to be … not only for the aging hippies: The beach of Benirras

Restaurant Elements

(April until October)
Carrer Benirras
Port de Sant Miquel
Ibiza, Spain

www.elements-ibiza.com

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Ibiza Love Part XVI

In the Bay of Es Cavallet is quieter than in the Beach Clubs at Playa Las Salinas or even the clubs on Playa d’em Bossa

Why did I actually always turn right in regularity, when the sign “Es Cavallet” appeared on the roadside of the PM 802 in Ibiza on my left? I honestly don’t know. Habit? Convenience? The believe that the Jockey Club at Playa Las Salinas was already the end of the story? Following a spontaneous inspiration, I then chose the other way and that has paid off in every respect. What I found on the beach of Es Cavallet and the Beach Club El Chiringuito, was the paradise.

The beach-chair price of 15 euros in El Chiringuito Beach Club is based on Ibiza’s price level. The luxurious daybeds are more expensive

Since Jonathan Thorogood and Olivia Fleury opened El Chiringuito in 2009 in the south of Ibiza, the Beach Club has developed into one of the hottest and most compelling high addresses of the island. Surrounded by imposing salt flats, sand dunes and turquoise water, here, the open view of the neighboring island Formentera and the old town of Eivissa reveal. The El Chiringuito is a great beach restaurant and lounge area – and in line with the beautiful scenery.

Here things are maintained well-cultivated, which also relates to the guests

Early Birds start their day here on white, cozy cushions with a breakfast, including Eggs Benedicte or Florentine. Eaten on white set tables where the bread is served in a linen bag. On the menu a whole range of breakfast classics are listed, which are comparable hard to find on the island. From 1 pm onwards Lunch is served, Mediterranean cuisine with French-Ibizan Touch. I love the bread selection to which a tapenade of tomatoes is offered. Delicious! Very good is the salad with goat cheese and walnuts, served in a wooden bowl, fresh Calamari Fritti or the spaghetti with seafood. Who wants a wine recommendation, is in best hands with sommelier Esteban Acosta. I like to try local wines and decide for the Rosé LXV Loxarel of Penedes. Gazing out to the sea I enjoy my wine and wouldn’t want to be anywhere else in this moment. BvH

We had the salad with goat cheese and walnuts as a starter …

… followed by fresh Calamari Fritti and the spaghetti with seafood …

… and the Rosé LXV Loxarel of Penedes. Just wonderful!

In El Chiringuito there is also outstanding breakfast …

Chic and casual

… for example, freshly baked rolls and croissants, homemade organic muesli, delicious pancakes with maple syrup and fresh fruits

Best Iberico ham freshly cut by the expert

Just relax!

In order for the big ones in El Chiringuito to eat in peace, there is a professional entertainment area for the little ones

How about an Apéro before lunch?

The only drawback in the Bay of Es Cavallet is the high proportion of algae in the sea. Depending on the flow sometimes more, sometimes less. But knowingly you can’t always have everything

Contact El Chiringuito:

www.elchiringuitoibiza.com

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To study the program and to learn about the horses, is important

Last weekend the highlight of the season, the „Grand Prize of Berlin“, took place at the Berlin racecourse Hoppegarten. A trip to Germany‘s biggest and most beautifully turf with its 145 years of tradition needs specifically preparations. Particularly the most elegant lady should be nominated by a jury due to the 126^th international champion-race. An incentive. Not only for the high-quality horses and jockeys.

Me wearing a dress in pastel tones of Dolce Gabbana and a hat by Berlin millener Fiona Bennett

Because the motto on such a day is called “Spruce yourself up”. I chose a dress in pastel tones of Dolce Gabbana, which I shopped many years ago at Theresa, one of my favorite shops in Munich. However in a horse race, the essential feature of an outfit is the namely elegant headwear. To me in this matter there is only one address in Berlin worth considering: Fiona Bennett’s Hat Palace.

Invited guests place on the porch of the former imperial grandstand and enjoy snacks whilst having the perfect view on the race

Tadaa, let the games begin: Glorious weather with bright blue sky in Berlin and a great visitor rush in Hoppegarten. Well protected with a gold-colored ribbons-creation, I walk past the snow-white Toto house in my Peep-Toes over the crunching gravel to the red bricked clubhouse, from whose VIP terrace – the former imperial grandstand – I observe the individual races with salmon fillet and strawberry tart. And of course I also inspect one or the other lady of the Berlin and Potsdam Society with their headdresses. And I got to see a lot!

Versatile hat creations and their wearers in Berlin Hoppegarten

The mood in Hoppegarten is wonderful. People lying in fresh-mown grass with picnic baskets, you stroll, you bet. I also tip, once I back a horse for place and once I back for a win. Unfortunately without success, but at least with a small monetary commitment. Whilst drinking a glass of champagne I’m telling myself that being there and taking part is everything.

Is number six going to win?

Suddenly I’m on stage as one of the nominated women for the “Prize for Elegance”. What an Honor! How exciting! Finding the right words when a microphone is held under your nose worked out fine. Only not with the first prize. This one goes to the lady in green. Applause. And as I said, being there is everything.

Exciting. Suddenly I find myself under the nominated ladies for the “Prize for Elegance”, whose winner was honored with a watch of the “Longines Collection”

Finally resonates the starting signal the highlight of the day, the “Grand Prize of Berlin” over a distance of 2,400 meters. Now I would also like a pair of binoculars to spot the galloping horses in the distance. The exceptional stallion “Protectionist” wins with its jockey Eduardo Pedroza and two and a half lengths lead. Its owner can look forward to the prize money of 110,000 Euros. And his wife to the “Prize for Elegance”. What a great luck, believe it or not.  BvH

Info Hoppegarten:

Hoppegarten looks back on an exciting past. Founded in 1868, Hoppegarten counted as the most important German racecourse, which attracted up to 40.000 visitors, until the First World War.  After reunification investors were sought, who should awaken the traditional racetrack with new life. 2008 the former fund manager Gerhard Schönigh, who lived in London, took over the racecourse. He renovated the historic racecourse, which is nowadays a natural and historical monument. Now every year take up to eleven days of racing place, which also attract international racing teams. With 430 hectares Hoppegarten is Germany’s biggest racecourse

Race-flair in historical ambience: Passing the snow-white Toto-house, over crunching gravel paths it’s getting onwards to the Wilhelmine wooden bleachers

Chaiman of the racecourse committee Tini Gräfin Rothkirch with Gerhard Schöningh, the owner of racecourse Hoppegarten

The leading ring: to me the most exciting place on the racecourse

Every 20 minutes before each race a dense crowd of people gets together in front of the parade ring – a small oval, in which the horses absolve some rounds in slow tempo

Preparation is everything: the jockeys talking to the owners and the trainers before the race

A glimmer of Ascot: a single gentleman was seen in cut

Final sprint!

Where are they running?

Elegant ladies and gents watch the race from the club terrace

Always stylish: Isa Gräfin Hardenberg

Hats belong to a race

PanAm-Lounge chief Natascha Bonnermann wearing the colors of the PanAm-Logo

The „Grand Prize of Berlin“, which was founded 1888 in Hoppegarten, came back to its birthplace for the first time in 2011

Media-Expert Jo Groebel and I

From Switzerland arrived: Volker and Josephine Varnholt

Grit Weiss – chic as always – with Hans-Rainer Schröder from BMW

Actor and horse fan Tom Schilling with his family

Me and the king-of-ties Jan-Henrik Scheper-Stuke

Chairman of the Race Committee is Tini Countess Rothkirch who established the new racing club

TV presenter Tanja Bülther wearing a dress by Guido Maria Kretschmer

The race is over. What a beautiful day!

Racecourse Hoppegarten:

www.hoppegarten.com

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