Mamaison Hotel Le Regina Warsaw in the Heart of the City

OCTOBER 2 0 1 9 N°10/2019 (107) 9,60 PLN (8% VAT included)

SWITZERLAND SRI LANKA OMAN PLUS The renowned Davos The best place Investing in the future and new Hotel, restaurant, is a real paradise for skiers for a winter holiday opportunities and airline news PGE NARODOWY Business is a game ZWIEDZAJ ŚWIAT WYGODNIE

www.royalcaribbeancruises.plwww.royalcaribbeancruises.pl ul. Świętokrzyskaul. Tamka 16, lok. 36, 4, 00-34900-116 Warszawa Warszawa [email protected],[email protected], tel. tel.: 004822 00 22 455 455 38 38 48 48

PAŹDZIERNIK 2019 businesstraveller.pl

028-032_Durban_popr.indd 33 26.04.2015 14:36 REKLAMABez nazwy-10 ROYAL.indd 1 2 11.03.201614.11.2018 15:15 13:17 040-046040-045_Bangkok_popr.indd rzeki azji_popr.indd 47 45 26.10.201627.04.2017 12:2418:25 CONTENT

OCTOBER 2019

DESTINATIONS COVER STORY 16 OMAN - CALMLY DOES IT 22 Investing in the future

and new opportunities OCTOBER 2 0 1 9 N°10/2019 (107) 9,60 PLN (8% VAT included) SWITZERLAND SRI LANKA OMAN PLUS The renowned Davos The best place Investing in the future and new Hotel, restaurant, is a real paradise for skiers for a winter holiday opportunities and airline news 12 22 SRI LANKA FOR WINTER PGE NARODOWY HOLIDAYS Business is a game PGE NARODOWY

36 SKIING IN DAVOS The rich offer of the renowned Swiss ski resort.

40 THE ALPS WITHOUT CROWDS 36 Ski trip to the Pyhrn-Priel and Hinterstoder regions

64 4 HOURS IN... GLASGOW WEST END

6 EDITORIAL

8 IN THE SPOTLIGHT Hotel, restaurant, 32 56 and airline news RACING AHEAD 3 26 MGALLERY HOTEL The 1973 COLLECTION NEW BRAND OF Navigator BOUTIQUE HOTELS IN POLAND is the perfect accompaniment 28 ANGELA SALIBA, to Tissot’s revived GENERAL MANAGER SHERATON 42 motorsport WARSAW HOTEL connections

28 MAMAISON HOTEL LE REGINA WARSAW IN THE HEART OF THE CITY

32 INTERVIEW Dominican Republic 59 for Every Season 42 BUILDING THE FUTURE 50 The centenary of the German BODY OF Bauhaus art school EVIDENCE

46 HERE TO STAY 60 Ritz-Carlton, Berlin A look at the flourishing sector 61 GWR Night Riviera of serviced apartments London-Plymouth

54 IN THE BAG SMART TRAVELLER Many fragrance are now offered in 62 Tier levels explained smaller, handy bottles 63 Flying with nut allergies TRIED AND TESTED 58 One Aldwych, London 66 ASK PETER 59 TThe Alexander, A Luxury Piotr Kalita answers readers' Collection Hotel, Yerevan questions businesstraveller.pl OCTOBER 2019 OD REDAKCJI

Business Traveller Poland ul. Tamka 16, lok. 4, 00-349 Warszawa tel.: +48 22 455 38 14, faks: +48 22 455 38 13 www.businesstraveller.pl

Redaktor naczelna Marzena Mróz [email protected] Dyrektor artystyczna Barbara Scharf [email protected] Skład/łamanie LACRIMA [email protected] Wydawnictwo R&S Media sp. z o.o. ul. Tamka 16, lok. 4 00-349 Warszawa tel.: +48 22 455 38 14 faks: +48 22 455 38 13 Wydawca Robert Grzybowski [email protected] Szef serwisu www.businesstraveller.pl Filip Gawryś [email protected] Reklama, sponsoring [email protected] Dystrybucja, prenumerata Piotr Grzybowski [email protected] WINTER CHALLENGES With winter just two months away, it’s a good idea to plan both your ski Druk LOTOS Poligrafia sp. z o.o. holiday, as well as a trip to warmer and sunnier destinations. For hot weather 4 04-987 Warszawa ul. Wał Miedzeszyński 98 lovers I recommend an exciting trip to Sri Lanka, especially because LOT tel.: 22 872 22 66 Polish Airlines is now launching a direct service from Warsaw to Colombo. www.lotos-poligrafia.pl Sri Lanka is all about the sea, but also the country of high mountains. Business Traveller Julian Gregory There is something for everyone here: impressive historic buildings, breath- Managing Director Panacea Media -taking landscapes, beaches for sunbathers and surfers, old-fashioned trains Lower Ground Floor riding along picturesque tea hills, and national parks with unique wildli- 41-43 Maddox Street London W1S 2PD fe. It’s also an excellent place for both trekking and relaxation in a resort tel.: +44 20 7821 2700 offering Ayurveda massages. And since from November until March the www.panaceapublishing.com temperature here is at 30 degrees Celsius, Sri Lanka is also a perfect spot for www.businesstraveller.com cold-o-phobes to get them through winter. And if you are a ski aficionado, then look no further than Davos - the highest located town in Europe, the oldest health resort in Switzerland, In the US “Business Traveller” is published at 303 Fifth Avenue, 1308, NY 10016, tel.: 1 212 725 3500. and the annual venue of the World Economic Forum. It’s a real paradise In Germany “Business Traveller” is published at Schulstrasse 34, 80634 Munich, tel.: 89 167 9971, for skiers, too, with snow covering the slopes from early December to May, fax: 89 167 9937. In Denmark “Business Traveller” is published and Davos has four ski stations: the two smaller ones (Madrisa and Pischa) at Rymarksvej 46, 2900 Hellerup, tel.: 45 3311 4413, fax: 45 3311 4414. In Hungary “Business Traveller” is published for children, as well as two larger ones (Jakobshorn and Parsenn), with lots at 1074 Budapest, Munkas utca 9, tel.: 36 1266 5853. In Hong of lifts and pistes of varying difficulty (in total about 300 km). The centre of Kong “Business Traveller Asia-Pacific and China” are published at Suite 405 4/F Chinachem Exchange Square, 1 Hoi Wan Street, Davos is home to lower stations of two funiculars: Parsennbahn carries skiers Quarry Bay, tel.: 852 2594 9300, fax: 852 2519 6846. to the top of Parsenn mountain, while a private tram takes you to Schatzalp In the Middle East “Business Traveller Middle East” is published jointly by Motivate Publishing, PO Box 2331, Dubai UAE, – a charming place with a former sanatorium, described by Thomas Mann tel.: 9714 282 4060, and Perry Publications. In Africa “Business Traveller Africa” is published by Future Publishing (Pty) Ltd, in his book entitled “The Magic Mountain.” Enjoy your reading! PO Box 3355, Rivonia 2128, South Africa, tel.: 27 11 803 2040. © 2009 Perry Publications Ltd – a subsidiary of Panacea Publishing International Ltd, United Kingdom

MARZENA MRÓZ REDAKTOR NACZELNA

OCTOBER 2019 businesstraveller.pl SPIS TREŚCI

A DREAMLIKE FLIGHT Enjoy your dream flight with the Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner.

businesstraveller.pl PAŹDZIERNIK 2018

Products and services are subject to change depending on flight duration and aircraft. ON TOP

LUXURY REAL ESTATE

PARK LANE AND COSMOPOLITAN The latest data collected by High Level Sales & Marketing shows that the number of luxury apartments sold in Warsaw increased from 115 in the first half of 2018 to 126 in the first half of 2019. At the same time, the supply of luxury properties in the capital city has increased by 62 percent. The average price per square meter in this segment has exceeded PLN28,000. 6 Among the ten most expensive investments currently available in the capital city, as many as four are offered by High Level Sales & Marketing. At the top of the list there is Park Lane residence situated near Royal Łazienki Park, with the price of PLN37,500 per sqm. Cosmopolitan apartment building has come runner-up in the ranking with PLN37,000 per sqm. The 9th and 10th positions are occupied by two investments situated in Saska Kępa - one of the most prestigious districts of Warsaw. These are Berezyńska 46 with the price of PLN27,500 per sqm, and Angorska 13A, where one sqm costs PLN25,500. hlsm.pl

A must-read for passionate mountaineers

ieszczady Mountains - a group of two reading public. It will also appeal to those who mountain ranges forming the Outer so far haven’t had a chance to visit Bieszczady, BEastern Carpathians - have their ardent encouraging them to explore it. This richly illu- fans, who visitin this scenic region at least once strated album shows the extraordinary beauty a year to wander around its beautiful pastu- of the region's fauna and flora, characteristic for res. But this elegant book published by BOSZ each of the four seasons of the year. You can Publishing House is aimed at much broader admire it thanks to captivating photographs,

OCTOBER 2019 businesstraveller.pl ON TOP

A tribute fashion show on flight to AUTUMN IN HAWAII New York Endless beaches, the best surf spots in the world, fragrant rainforests, volcano peaks that On 4 September 2019, during a flight are no strangers to snow, waterfalls winding in the middle of unspoilt valleys, and moun- from Amsterdam to New York, KLM 7 tains emerging against the background of a rainbow sky - all known from numerous film Royal Dutch Airlines and its passen- productions that were made here. It was here, in Hawaii, where they shot scenes for “The gers reminisced about KLM uniforms Jurassic Park”, “Indiana Jones”, “The Descendants” and “The Hunger Games”. It's here over the years. where the whole world meets. Businesspeople In the run-up to the airline’s 100th and hipsters surf together on the biggest waves, make the shaka sign to each other, anniversary on 7 October, the aisles which is the local gesture of friendly intent. Famous actors and Japanese tourists gorge in were transformed into a catwalk the delicious mahi-mahi fish. Yoga and detox lovers as well as sports aficionado and life where crew members modelled the sprinters climb together the peak of the highest volcano in Maui - Haleakala. KLM uniforms and related accessories of the time. The KLM uniform has seen many faces since 1935, but it has always been elegant, which was clearly seen during the catwalk in the sky, when crew members showed off uniforms from 1957 to the present day. The fashion show in the sky tied in nicely with the World Fashion Week that was held in September in New York, but it also spoke for itself because there is much to tell about the history of the KLM uniforms. “Few people know that we have only been wearing the current – and very recognisable – blue colour since 1971,” said Cliff Mu- PRESS MATERIALS,PRESS ADOBESTOCK skiet, KLM purser and initiator of the carefully selected by the album's graphic de- airborne fashion show. “And famous signer Leszek Szurkowski. The charm of the designers such as Nina Ricci and Mart nature of the region so beautifully conveyed Visser have often worked on them. It’s by the stunning images, will surely be a great great that crew and passengers respon- source of inspiration for those researching ded so enthusiastically. It was certainly their summer holiday options. The book was a special event in the run-up to KLM’s prefaced by Barbara and Bogdan Szymanik. 100th anniversary,” he added.

businesstraveller.pl OCTOBER 2019 ON TOP

8 TYROL FOR SKIERS AND... SAILORS Imagine you sail on a large, picturesque lake somewhere in Euro- at its deepest point. It’s also famous for its azure and crystal clear pe and the next day you go skiing on a large glacier covered with waters, which warm up to 20 °C. You can pick up your Soling freshly fallen snow. But wait... is it even possible? Generally not, boat from a family-run Yachtschule Schwaiger sailing academy in with the exception of Tyrol - Austria’s most mountainous region. Achenkirch. The best time to combine sailing and skiing is autumn and On the same day you can also ski on the Hintertux Glacier spring. Achensee is the largest Alpine lake in the Tyrol with the located just 60 kilometres away. At an altitude of 3250 metres, quiet tourist towns of Achenkirch, Maurach, Pertisau, Stein- the conditions for skiing are perfect even in spring and autumn. berg and Wiesing scattered around it. Surrounded by several The glacier offers nearly 30 kilometres of well-groomed pistes, as two-thousanders, the lake is long, narrow and 133 metres deep well as beautiful glacial plateaus.

LOT EXPANDS ITS SERVICES FROM CRACOW TO THE USA Next summer, LOT Polish Airlines will offer a wider range of flights on Cracow-USA routes. This means that the residents of the region of Lesser Poland will have an easier access to two major American airports served by LOT's Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft. The new services departing Cracow Airport and arriving at John F. Kennedy Airport in New York will be launched on 3 May 2020. LOT’s offer of flights from Cracow to Chicago will also be expan- ded. Beginning next summer, the frequency of weekly services on this route will be increased to five from three flights a week available today.

“I’m convinced that Polish diaspora in the USA, as well as busi- MATERIALSPRESS ness passengers and tourists visiting both Poland and the North America will be happy to fly with us on board our state-of-the art Dreamliners, and they will highly rate our services,” says LOT’s CEO, Rafał Milczarski. lot.com

OCTOBER 2019 businesstraveller.pl ON TOP

businesstraveller.pl MAJ 2019 KIERUNKI

PGE NARODOWY

WORDS MONIKA BORZDYŃSKA, Director of Communications and Promotion PGE NARODOWY

OCTOBER 2019 businesstraveller.pl KIERUNKI

PGE NARODOWY Kazimierz Górski, the legendary Polish footballer and coach, who led Poland national football team to gold medal at the 1972 Olympic Games in Munich, once said that “as long as the ball is in play, everything is possible.” The same is true in business. As long as you are in the game, the result is still open. PGE Narodowy stadium is a 11 perfect venue for a business meeting.

businesstraveller.pl OCTOBER 2019 COVER STORY

he success of PGE feel respect. In my opinion, it’s the most that we are all winners anyway, be- Narodowy is a result beautiful national landmark ever built. cause we can be present in this unique of many people and It’s not only dignified and impressive, place and absorb its one of a kind at- it’s worth taking a but it also has its own incredible history, mosphere. PGE Narodowy unites all closer look at how it and above all, exudes the spirit of sport, Poles and it doesn’t matter whether it was achieved. unity and the pride in being Polish. I’m happens at football matches, concerts She loves law, but her proud to be a part of it and of its deve- or business events. It’s the goal that first real passions were German langu- lopment process. counts. The white and red flag placed ageT and tourism, which later gave way on the spire is of particular impor- to legal counsellor traineeship. Her What is the key to success in effecti- tance, which I always stress. It’s our experience in public administration, ve management? common symbol. Every Pole should quality management and the Ministry In managing such a large facility, at least once visit PGE Narodowy, of Sport and Tourism has given her a numbers are very important, but pe- because, after all, it’s also his venue. powerful substantial weapon, which ople are the key element. I’m talking she now uses to manage one of the lar- here not only about the employees What is the main magnet attrac- gest multifunctional arenas in Europe. taking care of PGE Narodowy, but ting such big crowds here? Is the We are talking to Alicja Omięcka, the also about guests and fans who create facility itself such a big attraction or CEO of PL2012+, the company ma- its atmosphere and history every day. perhaps the numerous events held naging the PGE Narodowy. It’s simply wonderful. To understand here? FROM LEFT: this, just watch a TV broadcast of Every year we are visited by two million PGE Narodowy - is it a proud-soun- Alicja Omięcka one of many events held here. Tho- people. PGE Narodowy is a true icon of - the CEO of ding name? PL2012+, the se emotions are amazing: joy, excite- the national sport, so now wonder that For me it’s the second home, a place company managing ment and euphoria are intertwined at matches of the national team the with which I identify, to which I have the PGE Narodowy; here with sadness, regret and the stadium is full to the brim. The same a banquet held at great sentiment and at the same time PGE Narodowy bitterness of defeat. But the truth is is true for most concerts held here.

OCTOBER 2019 businesstraveller.pl 13

The phenomenal concert of Metallica In line with our detailed strategy, we 13/10/2019: in August this year was watched by hold here more events that we are the Poland - Macedonia nearly 60,000 fans. However, even on main organizer or co-organizer. These 19/11/2019: day-to-day basis the venue is alive with include such spectacular and success- Poland - Slovenia action, especially as we organize nume- ful events, as “Dawid Podsiadło and rous tours of the venue allowing visitors Taco Hemingway at PGE Narodo- 02/05/2020: to explore the place thoroughly. Here wy” concert, where we hosted the The Polish Cup in football numbers also play an important role, whole event. It’s hardly a secret that 16/05/2020: making visitors intrigued and hungry we have very ambitious development PZM Warsaw FIM Speedway Grand for more. For example, what 368, 426 plans. We want to meet the expec- Prix of Poland and 500 refer to? The first number is tations of the market, sport, society EVENTS how many grass rolls you need to create and our partners. We focus on the 17/07/2020: the fully functional football pitch. The strongest brands, which allow us to Rammstein second one is the how big our video develop and which, in turn, are able 22/08/2020: screens are in inches. And the third one to expand their potential thanks to Andrea Boccelli is the total surface of the athletes’ zone, us, because PGE Narodowy is also a which has a direct access to the main space for business. We are constantly field. using a range of tools to become even more attractive to our clients. With National PGE is growing in active sales of our space, PGE Naro- strength and generates income dowy hosts hundreds of business me- year after year. However, aren’t you etings every year. The venue is still an afraid that over the time and with a unrivalled example of a state-of-the- different situation in the market, it -art facility, where you can hold any can become less attractive? type of event. → businesstraveller.pl OCTOBER 2019 COVER STORY

FROM TOP: Multifunctional arena PZM Warsaw PGE Narodowy is one of Europe's most FIM Speedway Grand Prix of modern multifunctional arenas. It’s the Poland 2019; largest stadium in Poland and the only A match of Poland national one in this part of Europe with the hi- football team, ghest UEFA Elite Stadiums category. 2013; Thanks to a carefully adopted business Ed Sheeran concert, 2018 model, the arena is vibrant with life all year round. The facility has an extensive offer for sports and music fans, en- thusiasts of science and culture, urban sports and active leisure aficionado, as well as entrepreneurs who can actively expand their businesses in our arena. For sportspeople the facility is a true white and red fortress, a venue bringing luck not only to Polish footballers, but also our national volleyball team, speedway riders and athletes. Fans of good music value the arena highly for numerous concerts of the world’s greatest music stars that are held here on regular basis. For guests visiting PGE, the arena is, in turn, a source of positive emotions they wouldn’t be able to 14 experience anywhere else. Every year several hundred events take place here. The arena’s fast adaptability is its great asset, providing a great dose of energy to both the stadium itself and people involved in managing this huge facility.

Place for business The stadium is very popular with businesspeople due to its unique environment, which provides a perfect bac- kdrop for holding business events. As the largest conference and congress centre in Warsaw, PGE Narodowy offers a wider range of event organizing options than hotels and typical convention centres. Its advantage can be seen in its versatility. The most important business events take place in the very heart of the arena, which was also the venue for the NATO summit, where the most important decisions concer- ning the eastern flank of the alliance were discussed by the world’s leaders, including Barack Obama, Angela Merkel and the British Prime Minister David Cameron. On a daily basis, for the purposes of business events PGE Narodowy offers a dedicated conference centre, which can accommodate up to 2000 guests, as well as the 3,200 sqm Business Club. The organizers of

OCTOBER 2019 businesstraveller.pl 15

smaller business meetings can rent 62 fers unique sightseeing tours. During PGE NARODOWY comfortable skyboxes and numerous such tours you can visit the locker room al. ks. J. Poniatowskiego 1 non-standard spaces. It’s safe to say of the Poland national football team, 03-901 Warsaw that PGE Narodowy is a guarantee of where not only Robert Lewandowski, a successful event. but also Cristiano Ronaldo himself pre- BUSINESS EVENTS pared for matches at UEFA Euro 2012. tel.: +48 22,295 95 55 A must-see landmark In addition, a visit to PGE Narodo- e-mail: [email protected] The modern architecture of the PGE wy is a great opportunity to enjoy a Narodowy attracts numerous tourists, number of other attractions. Kart ra- offering them many memorable attrac- cing, longboard workshops, roller-ska- tions. The stadium and its surroundin- ting classes, cross-country trainings, a gs are open until late at night, seven viewpoint platform or interactive and days a week. The place welcomes both innovative smart Smart Kids Planet those who come here to concerts and Centre, are just some of many forms of CONTACT sporting events, as well as those who active leisure you can take advantage want to simply explore it or practise of when visiting the largest stadium in urban sports. PGE Narodowy also of- Poland. n businesstraveller.pl OCTOBER 2019 DESTINATIONS

WORDS GARETH ROBERTS

OCTOBER 2019 businesstraveller.pl Calmly does it Unlike some of its neighbours, Oman has taken a softly, softly approach to development and retained its unique character

→ businesstraveller.pl OCTOBER 2019 DESTINATIONS

man’s maritime The capital relied on next decade, making it 8.9 per cent history is woven a handful of interna- of GDP by 2028. throughout Muscat. The tax-free tional hotel chains that All the same, the past 18 months Everywhere you incomes enjoyed by happily, if sleepily, plied have been less than smooth and the In- look in the capital, expatriate workers their trade to expatriate ternational Monetary Fund lowered the from its rounda- continue to be a engineers, oil and gas country’s forecast growth rate from 1.1 bouts to the Royal executives, teachers and per cent to 0.3 per cent, largely down Opera House, there are photos, pain- draw nurses. Infrastructure to a decline in oil prices. Otings and murals depicting the coun- outside of the city was try’s seafaring heritage. practically non-existent, A SENSE OF PLACE It’s hardly surprising when you con- its coastal roads pot-ho- To describe a city as quaint may seem sider that the Sultanate anchors the led and treacherous if one trite, but not so with Muscat. It’s a Arabian Peninsula to the Indian Oce- of the frequent typhoons place with its own distinct, almost villa- an, its 1,700km of rugged coastline had blown in. ge-like, aesthetic – a ten-storey limit is extending from the border of Yemen to Muscat’s patience has imposed on developments to keep the the rocky enclave of Musandam in the been admirable – it has cityscape on a human scale. New roads north. And this is the home of Sinbad, been ripe for development for that arc across the city have thankfully after all. decades, the Sultanate’s GDP in not diminished its character – it’s not Twenty years ago, Dubai’s rising 2000 being US$19.51 billion, com- quite the sleepy fishing port that it used sun was all but eclipsing Oman’s am- pared with US$79.29 billion today. to be, but neither is it Shanghai. bitions as a tourist destination. Thanks Some 51 per cent of this is down to Ten years ago, the business traveller’s largely to Sultan Qaboos bin Said Al Oman’s oil and natural gas extrac- choice of five-star hotel within the city Said, Muscat retained its identity and tion; however, according to a new was limited to the Al Bustan Palace, avoided the kind of untethered deve- report by the World Travel and To- the Intercontinental and the sleek, then 18 lopment that saw its glitzy neighbour urism Council, tourism is set to sky- newly built, Chedi, the precursor of Masjid Al Rasool swamped by shopping malls and of- Al A’dham mosque rocket, with its value predicted to things to come. The latest game-chan- fshore projects. in Muscat reach US$8.67 billion alone over the ger to hit the market is the Kempinski ADOBESTOCK, PRESS MATERIALSADOBESTOCK, PRESS

OCTOBER 2019 businesstraveller.pl 19

Muscat, which launched in 2017. The jali, director-general of investor services Muscat inside the luxury Dunes desert resort in Wadi Oman Convention 310-room property is located in the and quality management at the Mini- and Exhibition Al Abyad sands, explains some of the Wave district and has ten international stry of Tourism, says the signings are Centre other ways that the country is trying to restaurants and bars, an exceptional spa part of efforts to encourage investment. boost its appeal: “The implementation and a ballroom for 700 guests. “These agreements are expected to in- of electronic visa processing at the new In June, the 279-room W Ho- crease tourism facilities and services Muscat International airport terminal, tel Muscat opened in the beachfront to boost economic development and improvements at Port Sultan Qaboos, Shatti Al Qurum district, giving a diversify sources of national income as and the success of the Oman Conven- considerable boost to the capital’s part of an ongoing government stra- tion and Exhibition Centre since it ope- bid to capture more of the luxury to- tegy,” he says. “They will serve local ned in 2016 mean tourism in Oman is urism market. communities by creating employment now booming.” In this, he says, the co- opportunities for Omani youth, while untry is aided by its “character, charm, LAND OF OPPORTUNITY empowering the tourism sector as one natural attractions and legendary Earlier this year, Minister of Tourism of the five major sectors adopted in the Omani hospitality”. Ahmed bin Nasser Al Mahrizi signed national programme to promote econo- 11 agreements for projects across the mic diversification.” The other four are INVESTING FOR THE FUTURE country that would include multiple oil and gas, water resourcing, agricultu- In March last year, Muscat Internatio- hotel and resort developments, Omani re and fisheries, and banking. nal opened its new terminal, increasing heritage markets, souqs, commercial Amit Garg, director of operations passenger capacity from 14 million per districts and harbours. and development at Al Nahda Hotels year in 2017 to an anticipated 20 mil- Mohammed bin Hammoud Al Zad- and Resorts, whose portfolio includes lion this year (though it is still some way → businesstraveller.pl OCTOBER 2019 DESTINATIONS

off reaching that figure), with future phases planned that will boost it still further to 48 million. The airport now features a 97-metre air traffic control tower and second runway (for more on the new airport terminal see our next issue). National carrier Oman Air stables a modern fleet of 53 aircraft here, including five Boeing Dreamliners. The country’s MICE offering is relatively small, but the Oman Conven- 20 tion and Exhibition Centre is expected EXPLORING THE CITY to show significant returns over the WHAT TO SEE: Bait al Zubair, the capital’s go-to museum, will leave your next few years as it draws from the head spinning with wonder at the Sultanate’s incredible past, with exhi- over-subscribed UAE and Saudi Arabia bits including a large collection of ancient weapons. Open 9.30am-6pm markets. A short hop from the airport, Sat-Thurs, entry 2 rials (£4.30). baitalzubair.com it boasts 22,000 sqm of exhibition space and a 3,200-seat theatre. Sultan Qaboos is a classical music lover (he once commissioned a While investment in tourism rema- pastoral arrangement from Mission Impossible composer Lalo Schifrin) ins strong in Oman, it is dwarfed by and in 2011 he opened the Royal Opera House Muscat. International the mega developments of its neighbo- performances are frequent – next month will see the Philharmonique de urs, especially Doha and Dubai. Still, Monte Carlo and the choir of Opéra de Monte Carlo perform Puccini’s government investment e-portal Oma- La Bohème. Booking ahead is recommended. rohmuscat.org.om nuna is keen to point out its location WHERE TO STAY: Many international chains now have hotels in Muscat overlooking international and regional and more are on the way – a JW Marriott property is set to open in sea lanes, and ports that “open new November next to the Oman Convention and Exhibition Centre, while horizons for investment and free tra- the Mandarin Oriental Muscat is due to launch in 2021. One hotel that ding”. It has four free zones, including is especially good if you are extending your trip across a weekend is the Salalah in the south and Musandam in Chedi Muscat, a modern, low-rise beachfront property located about the north, while the tax-free incomes four miles from the centre of the city. The infinity pool is an Instagram- enjoyed by expatriate workers continue mer’s dream, although don’t let that put you off. to be a draw. ghmhotels.com Muscat is an attractive proposition WHERE TO EAT: While most business hotels in Muscat offer outstanding to those willing to invest long-term and fusions of regional food, for a more street-level experience you’re best accept this ancient, culture-rich part of off exploring the Al Muttrah Corniche and the Bait al Luban (House of MATERIALS,PRESS ADOBESTOCK Arabia which has a tendency to move FROM TOP: Frankincense). The latter, a converted guesthouse that is more than a at a more leisurely pace. That said, Royal Opera century old, serves up the city’s most authentic Omani food, a blend of Oman has been trading internationally House, Muscat; Arabic, Indian and East African flavours (the Sultan of Oman once ruled for centuries. One of the world’s most the Kempinski Muscat; the the spice island of Zanzibar and evidence of this persists in the local valuable commodities, Frankincense, Intercontinental; cuisine). Recommended dishes include Ma’asoora, salt-preserved white once emanated from this country. The Dunes by Al Nahda resort fish cooked with onions and served with Omani ghee. trading mentality is firmly hard-wired baitalluban.com into the Omani DNA. n

OCTOBER 2019 businesstraveller.pl www.celebritycruises.pl ul. Tamka 16, lok.4, 00- 349 Warszawa tel. 004822 455 38 48

businesstraveller.pl OCTOBER 2019

006-010_newsy_popr.indd 9 26.04.2015 14:20 DESTINATIONS

WORDS MARZENA MRÓZ

SRI LANKA FOR WINTER

OCTOBER 2019 HOLIDAYS businesstraveller.pl he island of Ceylon, due to its shape and geographical location, is often referred to as the Tear of India. Now known as Sri Lanka, the island has been under the influence of its continental neighbour for centuries, but it has managed to retain its 23 distinctiveness and cultural wealth. There is something for everyone here: impressive historic buildings,T breath-taking landscapes, beaches for sunbathers and surfers, old-fashioned trains riding along picturesque tea hills, and national parks with unique wildlife. And since from November until March the temperature here is at 30 degrees Celsius, Sri Lanka is also a perfect spot for cold-o- phobes to get them through winter.

Colombo The largest city of Sri Lanka and its administrative capital, Colombo was once a small fishing and trading settlement, which grew considerably during the Dutch rule of the island. The city is inhabited by people of different cultures and religions and it continues to grow with numerous modern buildings constructed every year next to historic Christian and Buddhist temples. Some of the not-to-be-missed spots in the capital include the Sri Lankan National Museum, its picturesque temples, as well as the island's largest marketplace. Note that Colombo is divided into 15 districts, each with its own number and name. Sri Lanka is all about the sea, but also the country of high mountains. It’s an excellent Wilpattu National Park The island’s largest national park place for both trekking and relaxation in a is famous mainly for the largest population of leopards in resort offering Ayurveda massages. Sri Lanka. If you are lucky, you will also see here buffaloes, sloth bears, deer and crocodiles. The nature reserve was It’s famous for its delicious Ceylon tea, established in 1905 and the national park in 1938. The but also cinnamon plantations. characteristic feature of this area are numerous small lakes, On 3 November, LOT Polish Airlines will be sometimes more reminiscent of large puddles (hence the launching a new seasonal flight from Warsaw name of the park - 'Wil' means 'puddle', 'lake'), in which to Colombo, Sri Lanka. rainwater is collected. businesstraveller.pl OCTOBER 2019 DESTINATIONS

Sri Lanka’s vast sandy beaches, are extremely popular with Nuwara Elija In my opinion, this spot offers the most sunbathing aficionado coming here from all over the world, scenic landscapes on the island. With especially in winter months. Everybody can find high mountains covered with evergreen Arugam Bay is a real paradise for surfers. Suffice it to say here something vegetation, plantations of famous Ceylon tea, that say that it’s ranked among top 10 spots in the world to their liking. waterfalls and English flower gardens, the to practice this exciting sport, mainly thanks to the unique Impressive historic place looks simply fabulous. Nuwara Elija is Pottuvil Point - a hollow right-hand reef break where the sites, magnificent criss-crossed by the most beautiful railway wave begins up the point and can run close to the shore for landscapes, beaches routes in the world and offers unlimited almost a kilometre. Those looking for fine sand, water and possibilities for trekking and active leisure, sun, can also stay in one of many excellent five-star hotels and national parks. possible owing to the area’s pleasantly cool on the island. And if your expectations are really high, try climate. You can stay here in one of the many the beach at Mount Lavinia suburb of Colombo. You won’t good hotels, trying the excellent cuisine of be disappointed. the region and going on numerous excursions every day. Bundala National Park A UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, Bundala National Park is home to more than 200 species of Anuradhapura The former capital of the island birds. If you are lucky, you will spot here exotic flamingos, has preserved a numer of architecturally fascinating Indian cormorants, Eurasian spoonbills, lesser adjutants buildings from centuries ago. Those include temples, or black storks. You can also come across here Indian dagobas and palaces. It’s also home to the oldest cultivated elephants, leopards, wild bores, crocodiles and tortoises. tree in the world with a documented written history, The park is also home to 400 species of plants. called Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi. It’s believed to have been established from the southern branch of the peepal (or Ella ValleyThis small resort enjoys a great popularity with esathu) tree (Ficus religiosa) in whose shade the Buddha foreign tourists, mostly because of being close to excellent achieved enlightenment. For centuries, the once great city trekking routes such as the Little Adam's Peak, which offers disappeared, overrun by the jungle. It was re-discovered a wonderful view of the valley and Ravana waterfalls. in the 19th century and its unusual buildings can be seen

The town with its small guesthouses, bars and restaurants again. In 1982, Anuradhapura was granted UNESCO ADOBESTOCK has its own unique atmosphere, and lying high above the World List of Natural and Cultural Heritage. sea level, it enjoys average annual temperature of around Golden Temple of Dambulla The Buddhist Golden 20 degrees Celsius. Temple dates back to the 1st century BC. It consists

OCTOBER 2019 businesstraveller.pl DESTINATIONS

25 of five sanctuaries and is the largest and best preserved FROM LEFT: When to visit Wilpattu National Park; rock temple complex in Sri Lanka. The most unique are Lake Beira in Colombo; Ideally in the months from wall paintings occupying an area of 2100 sqm, as well as Temple of the Sacred November to March, when the numerous Buddha statues. Tooth Relic in Kandy; temperature is around 30 degre- Sigiriya es Celsius. Kandy The city is famous for one of the most amazing attractions, which is the Temple of the Sacred Tooth How to get there? Relic, visited by tourists from all over the world. To see You can fly to Sri Lanka directly the relic, you have to line up in a long queue. One of the with LOT Polish Airlines. The largest cities in Sri Lanka (as evidenced by its Sinhalese service will be available seaso- name - Mahanuwara - which simply means “a great nally from 3 November 2019 city”), Kandy boasts a number of historic landmarks, to 28 March 2020, departing making it UNESCO World Cultural and Natural three times a week. The flights Heritage site. will be operated by state-of-the- -art B787 Dreamliners. Detailed Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage This unique orphanage flight schedule and tickets atlot. established in the 1970s is a refuge for young elephants Know before you go com abandoned by their mothers. Currently, there are about one hundred animals living here, half of which are elephants Visa born in captivity. It’s undoubtedly one of the most popular You can obtain the visa without attractions of the island. You can observe here baby by filling out a simple online elephants up close or even try to feed them milk from a application form. Importantly, bottle. the Sri Lankan authorities have recently waived tourist visa fees Sigiriya One of the country’s biggest landmarks, Sigiriya for six months, starting 1 August is an ancient rock fortress built in the 5th century AD on 2019. the top of a 200-metre rock near the town of Dambulla. Sigiriya is considered to be one of the most important urban planning sites of the first millennium, and the site plan is considered very elaborate and imaginative. n businesstraveller.pl OCTOBER 2019 MGallery Hotel Collection new brand of boutique hotels in Poland

he AccorHotels Group is expanding its MGal- lery Hotel Collection in Poland. In March 2019, the chain of excellent boutique hotels welcomed a new property - Bachleda Luxury Hotel Krakow MGallery - and inT August this year the first guests checked into The Bridge Wrocław MGallery. Combining the highest standard of service with the world of rituals, fascinating stories and original ideas, the brand offers a completely new quality in the segment of luxury 26 hospitality. “MGallery Hotel Collection is an offer aimed at passionate guests, who expect from the hotel a unique experience of traveling and exploring new As you may expect cultures. Experiencing art and unusual from a boutique is unique, but they all are united by design, blissful relaxation in the spa or the idea of creating a one-of-a-kind enjoying one-of-a-kind cuisine... This is hotel brand, every experience inspired by local culture exactly what MGallery is about. Each MGallery property is and history. Such an experience may hotel is unique, has its own history, ri- be offered in form of signature cock- tuals, and is part of the cityscape and unique. tails offered in the bar, a unique menu, tradition of the place, in which it's relaxing rituals in the spa, dedicated located,” says Joanna Świerkosz, VP scents in the room or the so-called Marketing & Guest Experience Eastern Memorable Moment experiences, such Europe at AccorHotels Group. as a helicopter flight to Zakopane for an exclusive mountain picnic with Ba- DESIGN AND ARCHITECTURE chleda Luxury Hotel Cracow MGal- The key elements of MGallery’s philo- lery - a truly magical experience you sophy are design and architecture. It’s will never forget. through the design of buildings and their interiors - from the lobby, restau- MGallery, where the modern atmos- MGALLERY COLLECTION rant, spa to the guest rooms - each ho- phere of the city blends seamlessly with Currently, the MGallery collection tel is able to tell a different story. Such the rich heritage of the Cathedral Island comprises more than 100 properties a property may have a classic character, (Ostrów Tumski). Large windows, na- located in 28 countries around the allude to a specific era or be downright tural materials, warm candlelight - all world. In the region of Eastern Europe modern, but should always reflect the this tells the story of old Wrocław and the properties can be found e.g. in Pra- climate of the place where it’s located. takes you to the mystical world of me- gue, Budapest, Tarcin near Sarajevo,

The interiors of the hotels are often dieval cathedrals. and now also in Wrocław and Cracow. MATERIALSPRESS decorated with tasteful works of art, Further openings in the coming years designer furniture or feature surprising ENRICHING EXPERIENCE are planned in such destinations as architectural solutions. This is imme- As you may expect from a boutique Jurata and Provdiv, Bulgaria. diately visible in The Bridge Wrocław hotel brand, every MGallery property Marzena Mróz

OCTOBER 2019 businesstraveller.pl HOTELS

OD LEWEJ: The Bridge Wroclaw MGallery; Bachleda Luxury Hotel Kraków, MGallery businesstraveller.pl OCTOBER 2019 HOTELS

Angela Saliba, General Manager Sheraton Warsaw Hotel

ngela Saliba has recently been appointed the General Manager of the Sheraton Hotel in Warsaw. Angela is a passionate and committed hotelier with 27 years of experience in the industry. She started A her career in hospitality in Malta, where she was involved in various roles in the group's Rooms Division, until she joined the launch team of Westin Dra- gonara Resort, the first Westin opened outside the United States in 1997. During her tenure at the Westin Ho- tel in Malta, Angela held a number of positions, including the Executive Ho- 28 usekeeper and later she was promoted to the Director of Six Sigma. At that time she was also a member of the Ma- nagement Board of the Malta Tourist Office. In June 2007, she was promoted to the position of Director of Le Meridien St. Julians Hotel & Spa, the most prominent spa hotel in Malta, where she joined the team within the first year of the property’s opening. In 2011, she was appointed Complex Hotel Manager at the renowned Co- sta Navarino luxury resort in Greece, comprising Westin Costa Navarino and The Romanos, Luxu- ry Collection Resort. Angela Saliba's From October 2013, extensive Angela managed the knowledge of the Sheraton Cracow, the leading and undoubtedly hotel industry will the most recognizable serve the team and hotel in the capital of the hotel. Lesser Poland. In 2016, the property became the first Sheraton hotel in Poland to receive Sheraton Grand status,

becoming Sheraton Grand MATERIALSPRESS Cracow and offering a re- furbished product, excellent location and exceptional service. In the years 2014-2016 Angela was

OCTOBER 2019 businesstraveller.pl HOTELS

29 a member of the Sheraton GM Advisory Board for This is a decisive Europe, Africa and the time for the hotel Middle East. At the Mar- that is about to riott Directors General complete the major Conference in April 2017, renovation of its Angela was named Mana- ging Director of the Year public areas and for major brands on the restaurants. European continent. Her huge commitment remains a truly invaluable asset for the Sheraton Warsaw team, which she has now joined. This is a decisive time for the hotel that is about to complete the major renovation of its public areas and restaurants. Her vast knowledge of the hotel industry will serve the team and the hotel, which is becoming an important meeting venue on the map of Warsaw. Angela is pleased to continue her career in Poland. She enthusiastically embraced the move to Warsaw and FROM TOP: Deluxe Room, is happy to continue her adventure Club Executive in the country she already knows and Suite, Sheraton where she feels at home. n Warsaw Hotel businesstraveller.pl OCTOBER 2019 HOTELS

Mamaison Hotel Le Regina Warsaw In the heart of the city

f you wish to feel the atmosphere tes’ walk from here to the Barbican Mamaison Hotel racter. The colours of of the Old Town of Warsaw and or the Old Town. Going down the the interiors are sub- at the same time spend time in a Vistula embankment, you will reach Le Regina is one of dued and elegant with unique boutique hotel, then the- the banks of the river as well as the the best addresses dominant tones of be- re is only one place to go: Mama- Multimedia Fountain Park. in the city, especially ige, brown and grey. ison Hotel Le Régina. The hotel, which celeberated its 15th for those who would All rooms and suites fe- brithday this year, is well connected to like to relax in a ature Italian furniture, WHERE IS IT? the city centre – the Warsaw Chopin historic setting. individually controlled I With its attractive location, Mama- Airport is just 11-kilometres away, air conditioning, free ison Hotel Le Regina is one of the while a 15-minute walk will take you broadband internet, best addresses in the city, especially to two underground stations: Ratusz plasma TV and luxu- for those who would like to relax in a Arsenał i Dworzec Gdański. ry bathrooms. Superior historic setting. The property is situ- and Deluxe rooms also ated in Kościelna Street in Warsaw's ROOMS AND SUITES have hand-painted fre- New Town, adjacent to the district’s This is a first-class boutique hotel. It scoes. Each Deluxe room market, the Franciscan Church or the offers unique suites and rooms – each comes with a private terrace, 30 Sapieha Palace. It’s also a few minu- with a different décor, shape and cha- which seems to be a perfect place PRESS MATERIALSPRESS

OCTOBER 2019 businesstraveller.pl HOTELE

The hotel has

a bar and an 31 award-winning La Rotisserie restaurant.

for for breakfast for two or a roman- MICE concierge services are available. tic dinner. Some windows overlook Those who seek ultimate rest, should Kościelna Street, while others have definitely try the hotel’s relaxation the views of the hotel patio, where at area with a swimming pool, sauna, as warm days you can have breakfast. well as a wellness centre. The list of Guests can choose from six types of available treatments is long and will rooms and suites: Classic Room, Su- satisfy even the most demanding spa perior Room, Deluxe Room, Pentho- aficionado. use Suite, Le Regina Suite, as well as The hotel has a bar and the exquisi- the Presidential Suite. te La Rotisserie restaurant with a newly appointed, award-winning head SPA, RESTAURANT AND chef Artur Grajber, who is a well-k- CONFERENCES nown personality on Warsaw culinary The hotel’s meeting facilities can ac- scene. commodate up to 170 guests. Free mamaison.com/pl businesstraveller.pl OCTOBER 2019 INTERVIEW

Dominican Republic for Every Season

MARZENA MRÓZ talks with LEILA BOASIER Budecker, the Director of the Dominican Republic Tourism Board for Poland, Central and Eastern Europe

Why should you visit the Dominican Republic in winter? First of all, it’s a great place to get away from the winter frosts in Europe. The country boasts more than 1600km of Carib- bean coastline, beautiful beaches with white sand, luxurious hotels, delicious food and a wide range of exciting excursions around the island. With nine different ecological zones and a wonderful climate, I’m certain that anyone will find there something they will like. From observing whales in Saman to 32 exciting water sports on Cabarete. Those various places and numerous activities available in the Dominican Republic will certainly help you to get through winter months.

This year, the Dominican Republic Tourism Board in Prague, which also takes care of the Polish market, cele- brates its tenth birthday. This makes a good opportuni- ber of marketing activities and even better collaboration with ty to evaluate its activities. What do you consider to be various entities in the industry. your greatest achievement? The Polish market is for us the best example on which we Which places would you particularly recommend in the can present our acheivements in the recent years. We have Dominican Republic for different seasons of the year? changed the face of the Dominican Republic from a distant One of the most important advantages of the Dominican Re- destination to a well-known and popular one, which is liked public is the relatively stable climate on the island all year ro- by Polish tourists. Today, the Dominican Republic is visited und. That means you can enjoy here summer for 12 months. annually by about 40,000 Poles and this number increases Although the Dominican Republic is a small country, all its every year. In 2019, we have observed a 23-percent incre- areas have their own special charm and offer ase compared to the same period last year. We continue our tourists a number of attractions. I particular- work, trying hard to maintain these favourable results. Today, the ly recommend Constanza and the Dominican Dominican Republic Alps. The country's cold highlands lie 80 ki- How many foreigners visit the Dominican Republic eve- is visited annually by lometres from the tropical heat of Santo Do- ry year? mingo. The central region, dominated by the

about 40,000 Poles THE DOMINICAN REPUBLIC TOURISM BOARD According to the statistics for 2018, last year the Dominican and this number impressive Cordillera Central, the mountain Republic was visited by about 6,5 million foreign tourists, increases every year. range that forms the backbone of the island, which means a cumulative increase of 5.1%. With new air is a paradise for lovers of protected nature in services from Latin America and multi-million dollar hotel national parks. The mild climate is ideal for investments, we have been able to increase the offer and the growing strawberries. potential of the country, which is now top destination in the Puerto Plata is located between the beautiful Caribbean. Atlantic Ocean and the impressive Pico Isabel de Torres. Its origins date back to 1495, but in What are your plans for the coming years? the 1970s this once sleepy province was revived by In 2020, we want to intensify our activities. This means we the rapid development of tourism. It’s worth taking a want to increase our presence in Poland with a greater num- trip through the picturesque centre of Puerto Plata with

OCTOBER 2019 businesstraveller.pl WYWIAD

its unique architecture, One of the museums and restaurants. most important The climatic streets of the advantages of the city remember the period Dominican Republic when tobacco production is the relatively flourished in the area. This 33 stable climate on the is the best place to enjoy the island all year round. atmosphere of the golden 19th century. The province is also home to the unique town of Cabarete, considered the best spot in the whole of Caribbean to practise wind- surfing and other water sports. You might also want to visit Santo Domingo, which in addition to its famous colonial zone, is a true me- tropolis with a population of over three million people. The city was built on the area bordered by the coast and the Rio Isabela River, and now is a fascinating mix of scenic alleys dating back to the 19th-century, and modern shopping districts. Don’t forget about our picture-perfect beaches, especially the beautiful Costa del Coco, which is protected by reefs and is known for incredibly white sand. Its calm waters make it an undisputed tourist mecca. About 64 kilometres of unin- terrupted beaches in the southeastern Dominican Republic, endless views of the sea, sand and coconut trees are the bac- kdrop for intimate hotels and luxury villas. The construction boom that can be observed here since 1980s, has led to the development of large, autonomous tourist cities on the island, rising along its shores. If you want to escape from the luxury of a hotel, you will discover here a number spectacular beaches - some tranquil and untouched - stretching as far as the eye can see.

Thank you for the interview. businesstraveller.pl OCTOBER 2019 Reklama rozkladowka BT.indd 2 30.06.2018 08:21 Reklama rozkladowka BT.indd 2 30.06.2018 08:21 Reklama rozkladowka BT.indd 3 30.06.2018 08:21 DESTINATIONS

SKIING IN DAVOS

OCTOBER 2019 businesstraveller.pl DESTINATIONS

WORDS MARZENA MRÓZ

he easiest way to get to Davos is by train. First you take a SWISS plane from Warsaw to Zurich, and then buy the so-called Swiss Pass to full enjoy the offer of the Swiss Travel system. The pass is a ticket which entitles you to travel for a month, for a specified number of days aboard Swiss trains and more.

THROUGHT THE MOUNTAINS BY TRAIN The tickets are valid on most private railways, ships, mail buses, and means of public transport in nearly 40 cities. 37 They also provide a 50% di- scount on most mountain rail- It’s a real paradise ways and free access to almost for skiers, with all museums. You can also buy the Swiss Pass card whi- snow covering the le you are still in Poland. Just slopes from early go online to www.swisstravel- system.pl. December to May. Travelling with Swiss Ra- ilways is a pure pleasure. It's by far the best, the fastest and most convenient way to explore this mountainous country. When you get on the Swiss train, you can always be sure that you will reach your destination on time, and the trip will be extremely comfortable, with lots of stunning views on the way. The train reaches all major mu- nicipalities – including those in the high mountains. As you can see, the Swiss rails can reach any height, and the number of tunnels, viaducts and traverses they pass thro- It's the highest located town in ugh, for example on the way to Davos - is truly impressive. Europe, the oldest health resort in ALPINE VIEWS Switzerland, and the annual venue of Travelling by train from Zurich to Davos, we cross me- the World Economic Forum, as well as dium-sized mountains on the shores of picturesque Zu- a famous ski resort. This winter Davos richsee and Walnesse lakes to then reach Landquart, where has a lot to offer. we get TEKSTinto a narrow-gauge ROSE line ofDYKINS the legendary Rhaetian Railwich. The serve the most mountainous region of the country called Graubunden, which stretches from Klosters to → businesstraveller.pl OCTOBER 2019 DESTINATIONS

St. Morits situated in the Upper Engadine Valley. While up to Klosters the railway line ascends relatively gently, the Klosters-Davos stretch means climbing up 400 metres over a distance of a few kilometres between 1,200 and 1,600 metres above sea level! And the views from the windows of the train are simply second to none. One of them is the beautiful Lake Davos, which borders with the northern Davos-Dorf district. In summer glitters in the sun like tho- usands of diamonds, while in winter it freezes completely.

A RESORT WITH HISTORY Davos is the highest town in Europe (1,560 m above sea level). The lowest point within the city limits is Brombenz (1,260 m), and the highest - the Fluela-Schwarzhorn ridge (3,146 m). The town has only 13,000 inhabitants, but along with the nearby Klosters (the favourite ski destination of the British royal family), it offers nearly 20,000 hotel Thomas Mann who set the action of his novel The Magic rooms of various accommodation standarts. Davos Klosters Mountain in Davos, as he would often come here to visit his is one of the birthplaces of winter sports in Switzerland and wife Katia who was suffering from a lung complaint. The a few years ago celebrated its 150th birthday. site of the former santorium is now occupied by Waldhotel Its fame began in 1869 when the first Kuranstalt Spen- hotel, but the Am Stein where Mann stayed is still there.

gler-Halsboer sanatorium was built here. Several years later MATERIALSPRESS the first line of Rhaetian Railway from Klosters to Davos MODERN AND SWISH was launched, which popularized this beautiful but once li- Today Davos is a small, chic town with excellent hotels, fan- terally unavailable place. Famous visitors Probably the most cy restaurants, interesting atmosphere, perfectly prepared famous guest, who made the place known to the world, was slopes, a modern congress centre, which is the venue for the

OCTOBER 2019 businesstraveller.pl DESTINATIONS

annual World Economic Forum, as well as the museum of lift, or a tram at the uppers section of Parsennbahn. There Ernst Ludwig Kirchner with the world’s largest collection are plenty of pistes there, suited to everyone’s needs and of works by this German graphic artist and expressionist skills. It’s also worth noting, that until Christmas the ski painter. pass for all the slopes in the area is available free of charge. The resort stretches between two railway stations. Davos Dorf is more Alpine, while Davos Platz is a congress centre ON THE SLOPE AT SUNRISE with modern architecture. Its buildings are mostly built of Davos is also home to Swiss Institute for Snow and Avalan- concrete, glass, and wood, though there is also a number of che Research, which deals with research and scientific servi- stylish 19th-century houses with wooden shutters, balco- ces in the fields of snow, natural hazards, alpine habitats, nies, and porches. and integrated risk management. Between the lift and the funicular there is a long red ski run for adrenaline seekers. ALL FOR SKIERS Nearby you can also see herds of ibex, while down below It’s a real paradise for skiers, with snow covering the slopes there is Davosersee and the surrounding three thousanders from early December to May, and Davos has four ski sta- - Pischahorn, Flüela Wisshorn, and Flüela Schwartzhorn. tions: the two smaller ones (Madrisa and Pischa) for child- A great experience and a fantastic adventure for real ski ren, as well as two larger ones (Jakobshorn and Parsenn), aficionado is taking the first morning train to Parsenn to be with lots of lifts and pistes of varying difficulty (in total able to get down the slope at sunrise. First, however, make about 300 km). All of them are accessible with just one ski sure that this option is available on a given day, and if it is, pass. The centre of Davos is home to lower stations of two you need to book it beforehand. funiculars: Parsennbahn carries skiers to the top of Parsenn Across town, near the Davos Platz, the funicular whisks mountain, while a private tram takes you to Schatzalp – a skiers to Jakobshorn. With its fantastic snow park and nu- charming place with a former sanatorium (now converted merous off-piste opportunities, it’s a perfect place for snow- into a luxury hotel), which was described by Thomas Mann boarders. Traditional skiers can also enjoy here several pistes in The Magic Mountain. The most popular mountain in FROM LEFT: of varying difficulty. And for cross-country skiers there are Snow-covered Davos is Parsenn. You can get off the funicular at Hohen- slopes in Davos; 75 kilometres of well-marked trails along the town and in weg through station (2,219 m), and then take Rapid chair the town in winter the nearby valleys of Flüela, Dischma, and Sertig. n businesstraveller.pl OCTOBER 2019 KIERUNKI

Seeking comfort and luxury, Polish tourists usually opt for top resorts in the Tyrolean or Italian Alps when planning their annual THE ALPS ski holiday. Hardly do they know that the regions of Pyhrn-Priel and Hinterstoder that lie close to the Polish border, can be an equally WITHOUT good choice, confirming the old truth that “small is beautiful”.

CROWDS n winter, many Poles travel more than 1200 kilometres by car for their dream holiday in the Alps. However, attracted by the highest peaks and following the herd instinct, they don’t reali- ze that what they may need is almost at hand’s reach. I’m talking here about the smaller ski resorts of Styria, Carinthia and Upper Austria. And let’s put it straight: smaller doesn't mean worse. Tho- 40 I se resorts aren’t only located closer, but they are also considerably cheaper and offer similar conditions and attractions to what you may find in Tirol or Salzburg. One of them is the Pyhrn-Priel region situated in Upper Austria, with two perfectly connected resorts: Hinterstoder-Höss and Wurzeralm-Spittal am Pyhrn. Getting there from Warsaw takes nine hours (about 950 kilometres), while from Katowice less than six (600 kilometres). In addition, both resorts are very close to the A9 motorway connecting Linz-Graz, so you don’t have to worrying about driving several dozen kilometres on winding mountain roads.

HINTERSTODER-HÖSS Hinterstoder-Höss is undoubtedly the most attractive resort in the Pyhrn-Priel region. It stretches beyond Hinterstoder and offers 40 kilometres of pistes of various difficulty levels: 12 kilometres for beginners, as well 18km and 10km of red and black pistes respec- tively. The ski areas are located at an altitude of 1858 metres asl, up to the peak of Hutterer Höss. You can get there by cable car. Even higher (2000 metres) is the peak of Schafkogel mountain offering several mild ski runs served by two T-bar lifts. From the top you can admire the majestic panorama of the Alps.

The centre of the resort is located on a wide plateau MATERIALSPRESS at an altitude of 1400 metres. It’s conveniently served by cable cars from Hinterstoder, and it also acts as the lower terminus for all ski lifts, including another cable WORDS FILIP GAWRYŚ car, six T-bars, a six-seater and a two-seater chair lifts

MARZEC 2019 businesstraveller.pl DESTINATIONS

taking skiers up to the top of Hutterer Höss with two out- Wurzeralm offers 22 kilometres of well- standing black pistes. But Hinterstoder -prepared slopes and 7 ski lifts. Definitely The longest ski slope, called Gammeringabfahrt, is is not only popular the most attractive is the Frauenkar (1870 4.5km long with a difference in altitude of 800 metres. The with Alpine skiing metres) offering two difficult variations of most difficult one is, in turn, the FIS-certified (for slalom red piste no. 3, as well as equally challen- and giant slalom) 2A piste that stretches over 3.5km. In aficionado, but ging black piste 3A. There is also some- 2016, the place hosted men's giant and super-giant slalom also fans of ski thing for ski mountaineering aficionado, races as part of FIS World Cup. It’s also one of the most mountaineering. too - especially the deep corrie between favourite training grounds for the former Super-G and do- the Totenmann and Frauenkar peaks. wnhill world cup winner Hannes Trinkl. And although experienced skiers won’t But Hinterstoder is not only popular with Alpine skiing get bored in Wurzeralm , it’s also a known aficionado, but also fans of ski mountaineering, mainly family resort, with many trails and a rich in- thanks to favourable terrain around the surrounding peaks. frastructure for the youngest, including the There are more than 20 of such trails, ranging from 5 to popular Sunny Kids Park. over 20 kilometres in length. Less experienced skiers can hire here an experienced mountain guide to show them the NOT ONLY SKIING way around the area. The Pyhrn-Priel region also boasts an interesting après-ski offer. This includes an illuminated toboggan run WURZERALM-SPITAL AM PYHRN (for evening fun), as well as a number of hiking trails, which The second most attractive ski resort in Pyhrn-Priel region are regularly groomed. You can also try your hand at curling, is Wurzeralm, located almost 30 kilometres from Hinter- which is a bit brushing the ice with a broom. stoder and stretching between 800 and 1870 metres above In Windischgarsten you can take part in a snowshoe hike sea level. You can get to the centre of the resort by a unique around the Kalkalpen National Park and the Pyhrn-Priel monorail funicular train travelling on suspended railway The Pyhrn-Priel area. It’s also worth visiting the Dom am Pyhrn - a Ba- region also boasts and trough several tunnels. This Europe’s fastest funicular an interesting après- roque cathedral church, as well as a Gothic church carved takes skiers to their destination in just seven minutes. ski offer. in the rock of St. Leonhard. n businesstraveller.pl OCTOBER 2019 DESIGN

WORDS BECKY AMBURY

BUILDING THE FUTURE Germany’s Bauhaus art school shaped the world we live in. To mark its centenary, we select some of the top exhibitions and galleries devoted to the movement

ne hundred years ago, in April 2019, the Staatliches Bauhaus art school was founded by architect Walter Gropius in THIS PICTURE: The new Masters’ Houses at the Weimar, Germany. At first glance, its Bauhaus Building in Dessau ABOVE: Eberhardt Schrammen’s Five spirit of experimentation and regrowth Hand Puppets (1923), on show in Weimar seems out of kilter with that era – Ger- many was a country broken by the First World War, which had ended only five months previously. 42 OYet 1919 was also a year of progress, with the birth of democracy in the country and suffrage for women. From the ruins of the conservative German Empi- re arose a liberal spirit and a taste for cultural experimentation. The shoots of modernism had begun to be seen towards the end of the previous century and the radical idea of unifying form and function, as promoted by 19th-century English designer William Morris, had gained global traction. Likewise, the Bauhaus school was to train its pupils in the total work of art, or ge- samtkunstwerk, fusing craft, design and fine arts, and bringing technology into the mix. Bauhaus’s minimal lines, geometrical forms and re- stricted colour palette went on to shape 20th-century design. The school can count such figures as Paul Klee, Wassily Kandinsky, Anni Albers and Ludwig Mies van der Rohe among its teachers, students and directors. From furniture and architecture to industrial design and typography, Bauhaus left few elements of the creative world untouched. During its brief 14 years of operation, the school had three locations in Germany – Weimar until 1925, Des- sau from 1925 to 1932 and Berlin until 1933 – and three directors, all architects: Gropius, Hannes Meyer and Mies van der Rohe. In 1933, the rise of the Nazi re- gime led to its demise, yet rather than stifle the spirit of Bauhaus, its influence was carried further afield as members fled the fascist state – hence the wealth of Bauhaus architecture in cities such as Tel Aviv and Chicago (see overleaf). Along with the much-anticipated opening this month of the Bauhaus Museum Dessau, built for the centena-

OCTOBER 2019 businesstraveller.pl 43

CLOCKWISE FROM ry year, there are still some excellent exhibitions to catch TOP LEFT: Bauhaus both in the UK and Germany – here are a few to look Archiv Berlin; Marcel Breuer’s Wassily out for. armchair (1925), on show in Weimar; the Bauhaus Building, DESSAU Dessau; Franz Bauhaus Museum Dessau Ehrlich’s Material Home to the world’s second-largest Bauhaus collection – Relief (1927), on display in Dessau the biggest is in Berlin – this striking building in Dessau (an hour’s drive from Leipzig) is almost as compelling as the exhibits it was created for. The open and flexible architecture embodies the Bauhaus spirit and aims to draw in aficionados and serve as a cultural hub in the city centre. The Black Box on the first floor will house architecture, furniture, lighting, textiles, wallpaper and typefaces, all of which reflect the debt owed by contemporary design to the movement. Opens on September 8; adults €8.50. bauhaus-dessau.de

WEIMAR Bauhaus Museum Weimar (one hour 45 minutes by car from Leipzig) is the bir- thplace of Bauhaus and, accordingly, has its oldest collection. You can admire it in the city’s new museum, which opened → businesstraveller.pl OCTOBER 2019 DESIGN

BAUHAUS BEYOND GERMANY The modernist movement has two surprising outposts…

in April with its permanent exhibition aptly named “The FROM TOP: Bauhaus Museum Weimar; Peter TEL AVIV Bauhaus Comes from Weimar”. Works include the re- Keler’s Cradle (1922), on display in Weimar; prototype of Alfred Schafter’s Pendant Light It may come as a surprise nowned table lamp by Wilhelm Wagenfeld and Carl Ja- (1931/2), in Dessau; Breuer’s Four-Piece Set to learn that the Israeli city kob Jucker, furniture by Mies van der Rohe and artworks Tables B9 (1925-6), on display in Weimar has the largest collection of by Klee, Laszlo Moholy-Nagy and Lyonel Feininger. En- Bauhaus buildings (above) try €11. klassik-stiftung.de in the world, the result of the emigration of German BERLIN Jewish architects following “Original Bauhaus” the rise of the Nazis. Now a This well-structured exhibition presents 14 key pieces Unesco World Heritage site, the 4,000-plus buildings of Tel from the history of Bauhaus, describing the story behind Aviv’s White City can be taken each one and how the creator fused technology and art. in on a guided two-hour 44 Bauhaus-Archiv, Museum fur Gestaltung (the museum’s walking tour (80 shekels/£18) temporary home is at the Berlinische Galerie in Charlot- from Bauhaus Centre Tel Aviv, tenburg while renovations take place); until January 27; which also has a free perma- entry €12. bauhaus.de nent exhibition. bauhaus-center.com LONDON “Beyond Bauhaus: Modernism in Britain 1933-66” Three of the movement’s leading figures, Gropius, CHICAGO Marcel Breuer and Moholy-Nagy, came to live and When Chicago’s industrial work in the UK during the 1930s; this exhibition leaders wanted to boost the BAUHAUSADOBESTOCK, JAN KELER, STIFTUNG DESSAU (I 21430 GG)/GUNTER BINSACK, 2018 will explore their impact on architecture in Brita- city’s profile, they turned in. Talks, screenings and workshops will also take to Bauhaus for inspiration. place. RIBA Architecture Gallery, Portland Place; Hungarian émigré Moholy- October 1-February 1; free entry. architecture.com -Nagy, one of the movement’s original teachers, was drafted in and the New Bauhaus NOTTINGHAM school was created in 1937. “Still Undead: Pop Culture in Britain Beyond the While it only lasted a year, Bauhaus” its influence had greater What do Habitat founder Sir Terence Conran, perfor- longevity. Mies van der Rohe mance artist Leigh Bowery and hairdresser Vidal Sas- was also drawn to the city and soon have in common? They all took inspiration from designed several buildings on Bauhaus, according to this diverse exhibition spanning the Illinois Institute of Tech- the 1920s to the 1980s. It kicks off with a colourful light nology campus. Architectural installation by student Kurt Schwerdtfeger before exami- highlights downtown include his Kluczynski Federal Building, ning the school’s impact on electronic music, club culture Dirksen Federal Building and and mod fashion. Part of Bauhaus Imaginista, a project AMA Plaza at 330 North exploring the school’s global reach, other exhibitions are Wabash; the last of these is taking place in Hangzhou, New York and Moscow. Not- home to the Langham hotel. tingham Contemporary; September 21-January 12; free chicagobauhausbeyond.org entry. nottinghamcontemporary.org, bauhaus-imaginista.org Visit bauhaus100.com for more information.

OCTOBER 2019 businesstraveller.pl 45

businesstraveller.pl PAŹDZIERNIK 2019

006-019_news_popr.indd 11 28.02.2018 14:15 SERVICED APARTMENTS

HERE TO STAY A focus on fresh design is helping the serviced apartment sector to flourish

OCTOBER 2019 businesstraveller.pl SERVICED APARTMENTS

WORDS HANNAH BRANDLER

‘The consumer’s MILLENNIAL POWER Providers have a keen eye on the mil- eyes have been lennial market in particular, a wise move opened to the given the World Data Lab’s prediction concept of living that their global spending power will be like a local greater than any other generation over the next 15 to 20 years. Savills’ 2018 Spo- and enjoying their tlight: European Extended Stay Market own space’ report highlighted that this group would make up 75 per cent of the global work- force by 2025. Co-working spaces, dining options and gyms are being incorporated into many properties. Sophie Perret, senior director of hotel consultancy HVS, says: “It’s an innovative sector, with alternative concepts such as co-living, co-working, student accommodation and home-sharing merging with the serviced apartment model, creating hybrids that respond to changing demands. Guests travelling alone can access the benefits of a shared business environment and a sense of community.” In London, for example, Bermonds Locke on To- wer Bridge Road will feature a coffee shop, cocktail bar, 47 co-working space, two meeting rooms and a gym when it opens in the second quarter of next year. Personalisation is on the rise, with the Global Serviced hile there’s no place like home, Apartments Industry Report 2018-19 finding a desire for serviced apartments come close. open-plan lobby areas rather than traditional reception de- Comfort, the ability to cook for sks, along with social evenings. Cuckooz Bloomsbury (see yourself and flexibility in terms of overleaf) even provides a guide to the area with recommen- length of stay – not to mention dations. “We are finding that the consumer’s eyes have been reasonable prices – make this sty- opened to the concept of ‘living like a local’, catering for le of living particularly tempting themselves and enjoying the flexibility of coming and going to regular travellers. in their own space,” Foice says. W The sector is thriving, somewhat thanks to a shift to- Likewise, digitalisation is a buzzword in the industry. Foice wards more inviting design-led properties. The UK is a says that the ASAP has “always had members who started prime market, representing a third of European expansion; the technology rush in terms of keyless entry, apps that run more than 7,500 apartments are planned for the next four every element of a room from blinds to entertainment, and years, mainly in London, Manchester, Edinburgh and Cam- environmental advances in construction and energy saving”. bridge. Other examples include touch panels for controlling room The “bleisure” trend continues, with business travellers functionality, as seen in Wilde Aparthotels, while check-in adding a weekend to their trips or bringing family – options for Stow-Away Waterloo is via an app. A text informs you for which serviced apartments are particularly suited. Alon- that your room is ready and provides access codes; your gside this is a rise in overseas leisure visitors thanks to the smartphone then functions as your room key. weaker pound. Providers are introducing lifestyle-orienta- ted sub-brands to attract both types of consumer. The Airbnb effect Saco’s design-focused Locke aparthotels, for instance, Airbnb continues to create waves in the industry. The bring chic living to London, Manchester and Edinburgh, platform is a major source of competition to apartment pro- while Wilde Aparthotels by Staycity – named after Oscar viders, appealing to leisure customers with its private rental Wilde and “designed to entice and amuse” – made its debut homes, and targeting corporates with Airbnb for Work. Not THIS PAGE: in Covent Garden in March last year. James Foice, chief surprisingly, there has been a backlash. Foice says: “Investors Staycity’s Wilde Aparthotel in Covent executive of the Association of Serviced Apartment Provi- snapping up housing stock primarily to let to short-term Garden ders (ASAP), says: “As ours is a young, nimble sector, we renters has pushed up prices and forced many locals out of can be very design- and technology-led.” their own area.” → businesstraveller.pl OCTOBER 2019 SERVICED APARTMENTS

UK-wide.” In June, Staycity reported that it would recruit 200 additional staff to cope with the number of openings in the latter half of this year. With that in mind, here are some new and forthcoming UK properties to look out for.

LONDON WEYMOUTH MEWS These luxury serviced apartments from Living Rooms opened in Marylebone in June. Housed in a Grade II listed industrial building, the seven units start from 57 sqm and are a mixture of one-, two- and three-beds. Offering plenty of natural light, many have outdoor living areas. In- teriors feature exposed brickwork, designer furniture and commissioned artworks. Each has an iPad loaded with a neighbourhood guide, and a record player. There’s also a 24-hour phone concierge, bikes to borrow and access to local gyms. living-rooms.co.uk/weymouth-mews

CUCKOOZ BLOOMSBURY London brand Cuckooz launched in 2016 and opened its eighth property in Bloomsbury in March. The six studios and one-bed apartments are set in a converted Georgian townhouse, with plush interiors designed by Kelly Jack- son – expect exposed brick walls, sash windows, original beams and bespoke furnishings. All have kitchens or kit- 48 chenettes, Netflix and Apple TV, and underfloor heating. Hotel chains are feeling the pressure, too, and are facing FROM TOP: Studios start from 14 sqm, while one-beds have a separate Weymouth the threat head-on by introducing their own home-stay Mews; Cuckooz living area. There’s a three-night minimum stay, which brands. Accor was early to the table, acquiring London-ba- Bloomsbury may be extended during busy periods. Guests get free sed luxury serviced home provider Onefinestay in 2016, access to Cuckooz Nest, the brand’s co-working space in while its joint-venture partnership with Pierre and Vacances Farringdon. cuckooz.co.uk Centre Parcs led to the creation of Adagio Aparthotels in 2007. The latter is set to double its portfolio to 220 proper- STOW-AWAY WATERLOO ties by 2023. In April last year, Marriott International laun- Eco-friendly newcomer Stow-Away plans to have 600-plus ched its Tribute Portfolio Homes platform in London with units across Europe by 2024. This 20-unit aparthotel opened UK-based home rental firm Hostmaker. It has since expan- in November last year in Waterloo. Housed in 26 repurposed ded to Paris, Rome and Lisbon, with more than 340 proper- shipping containers, its roof is covered in solar panels, whi- ties across these cities.

STRENGTH IN NUMBERS So what’s next for serviced apartments? Obstacles remain; big hotel chains have better visibility as they can use their marketing force to spread word of spin-off brands. The Glo- bal Serviced Apartments Industry Report notes that while brands such as Saco are well known in the UK, they do not have a huge global presence, leading multinationals to choose bigger names such as Accor or Marriott. Still, don’t take this to mean that apartment operators are falling behind. HVS’s latest report, The Serviced Apartment Sector in Europe: Poised to Outperform, shows that RevPAR growth (revenue per available room) for serviced apartments has outperformed that of traditional hotels, with a 3.5 per

cent growth improvement in the UK last year compared MATERIALSPRESS with 1.5 per cent for hotels; London saw 4 per cent growth (with hotels at 3 per cent). Foice says: “Trends show both revenue and occupancy rising, especially in London but also across gateway cities

OCTOBER 2019 businesstraveller.pl eds. This month it will open a 166-apartment property in Manchester set across six floors of the Grade II listed Du- cie Street Warehouse. Industrial-style interiors have been designed by David Archer (of Chiltern Firehouse fame) and include a restored glass atrium, original wrought-iron beams and Conran furniture. Apartments start at 27 sqm, and range from studios with kitchens to two-bed deluxe penthouses with roof terraces. The ground floor will be occupied by the independently operated “Cultureplex”, with a restaurant, a small cinema, a coffee shop and flexible workspaces. nativeplaces.com

EDINBURGH ABBEY STRAND le Molton Brown toiletries are stocked in refillable bottles. APARTMENTS AT Apartments are about 19 sqm and feature super-king beds, HOLYROOD blackout blinds, marble bathrooms with walk-in showers, Opening on Novem- kitchenettes and smart TVs. Its restaurant, Unwined, has ber 1, this collection of weekly wine tastings and guest chefs, plus an outdoor dining nine apartments is the area. stow-away.co.uk fourth property from Edinburgh’s Lateral City. ADAGIO BRENTFORD Located on the doorstep Adagio opened its first London aparthotel in October last of the Palace of Holyro- year in Brentford, a 20-minute drive from Heathrow airport. odhouse, the 16th-centu- Its 100 units start from 36 sqm and are a mixture of studios ry buildings once housed 49 and one-bed apartments, both with the option of an additio- Mary Queen of Scots’ co- nal sofa bed. Sleek in design, they all have wooden floors, urtiers. Overlooking Ar- kitchens and large balconies. thur’s Seat and a new pu- The property offers a fitness blic physic garden, the studio, one- and two-bed units start suite, concierge services, from 32 sqm and have medieval fireplaces and stone walls. l meeting rooms, laundry fa- ateralcity.com cilities and private parking. There is also a market area WILDE APARTHOTELS BY STAYCITY, with a complimentary bre- GRASSMARKET akfast; drinks can be pur- The second Wilde aparthotel from Dublin-based ope- chased here in the evening. rator Staycity is due to open in November this year on adagio-city.com King’s Stables Road in the city centre. The property will form part of a mixed-use development featuring residen- LIVERPOOL tial and commercial units as well as student accommodation. QUEST A medieval wall will be incorporated into its design, a vestige Australia-based Quest Apartment Hotels will open its first of the jousting tournaments that once took place here. The FROM TOP: European property in Liverpool this month, managed by Native Manchester; 123 apartments (the sizes are yet to be finalised) will featu- Cycas Hospitality. The 88-unit property is centrally loca- Stow-Away re kitchens, rainshowers, oak flooring and touch-control pa- Waterloo; Quest ted and comprises studios, one- and two-bed apartments, Liverpool nels for the lighting, air conditioning, tower rails and blinds. each with daily housekeeping (excluding Sundays). From There will also be a lounge, café and gym. staycity.com/wilde 25 sqm, they feature smart TVs, workdesks and king-size beds. Studios have kitchenettes, while one- and two-beds BELFAST have separate living/dining areas and washer-dryers. The DREAM PODS property also has a gym, conference room and car park. Belfast-based provider Dream Apartments launched this questapartments.co.uk budget concept in Bank Square in July. The 19 minimalist “pods” start from 16 sqm and come in four categories – stan- MANCHESTER dard, superior, bunk bed and quad pod. They each offer ho- NATIVE usekeeping and concierge services, and custom-made furni- Native has more than 25 properties across the UK, inc- ture by local company Balmoral Furniture. All have power luding in London, Glasgow (reviewed recently at busi- showers and 42-inch smart TVs. There is also a ground-floor nesstraveller.com/tried-and-tested), Birmingham and Le- restaurant. dreamapartments.co.uk businesstraveller.pl OCTOBER 2019 HEALTH BODY OF EVIDENCE

A health assessment leads to a lifestyle reassessment for BT’s editorial director WORDS TOM OTLEY

t wasn’t the best preparation for a health assess- it’s available, you may be able to get a basic health check ment. Having attended the reopening and re- free of charge, but even in those places, it presupposes that branding of the Radisson Blu Frankfurt, I woke your itinerary can fit in with the hours the doctor or nurse is at 5am to make the 7.20am departure back from available. Germany. There was then a delay caused by air- In my case, it means I never get around to going unless port congestion, not at Frankfurt Hahn but at I feel very unwell, which thankfully isn’t very often. An al- Heathrow. Too many aircraft trying to land on ternative is to pay for the appointment and schedule a time those two runways. I had a slight tightening in my chest and that suits you, although relying on a short-haul flight from 50 frequent I glances at the schedule on my phone to wonder if Europe to get there is probably not a good idea. my 9.30am appointment at Cromwell Hospital in London’s The advantage of having a health assessment is that it flags Kensington was still possible. up any potential problems and then these can be investiga- We landed ten minutes late and, with hand baggage only, ted, if needs be, by further tests. My assessment at the Bupa I ran out of Terminal 5 to catch a Piccadilly Line train. It was Cromwell Hospital included a long talk with a doctor about rush hour but there were plenty of seats, at least for the first my general health, allowing the opportunity to discuss any- few stops. Approaching town, I was joined by a mother and a thing of concern; a full battery of tests, including blood and small boy, around two years old, who smiled a lot and wiped urine, with most of the results being returned in only a few his fingers on my suit trousers. I was only five minutes late BELOW: minutes, spirometry to measure my lung function, and a re- for my appointment, and within 30 minutes was having my The Bupa sting ECG test; and an appointment with a dietitian. This Cromwell Hospital blood pressure taken. The result would be a true reflection of in Kensington, last one gave me the chance to ask whether it was true that my health; at least it would reflect an average day. London eating lots of red meat and drinking alcohol could increase →

TESTING TIMES Bupa Cromwell Hospital, or rather the quiet cobbled mews alongside it where health assessments take place, has new facilities. They are reassuringly white without being overly me- dicalised – more heaven than hospital – and reception staff smile and are helpful in stowing luggage somewhere safe so that for the first time in 36 hours I could stop dragging it around behind me. After a brief opportunity to catch my breath, answer 25 emails, read the business pages of the Telegraph and plan the presentation I was giving that afternoon, I was straight in to see the GP to have a chat and have some basic tests done (blood pressure and, ahem, prostate). I then crossed the corridor to a nurse who took various blood samples. I told her I would look away as the needle went in. She was very reassuring. “Don’t worry. All men are cowards,” she said. Whether male or female, we all know we should take care of ourselves but still don’t go to the doctor often enough to find out just how we are doing. If you live in a country where

OCTOBER 2019 businesstraveller.pl BODY OF EVIDENCE

businesstraveller.pl PAŹDZIERNIK 2019 your chance of getting cancer. Unfortunately, the short an- The Peak assessment I tried was both similar to that swer is yes. of the Cromwell Hospital and very different. The Peak tests Most organisations will offer several different levels of te- included a fitness one on an exercise bike, a grip test and a 52 sting. The Cromwell has an Executive Health Assessment hearing check. The last of these was useful since everyone (the one I did), but also – for about ten times the cost – the in my family says I am deaf. I now know that I am not, so Premier, which includes X-ray, MRI scan and carotid doppler there must be another reason why I can’t hear them. ultrasound (artery plaque) tests, among others. Both assess- There are 50-plus Bupa health centres thro- ments can also be bespoke, and if anything is discovered in ughout the UK, with the ones closest to whe- the initial testing, the doctor will then recommend further re I live being Milton Keynes, Cambridge investigation as appropriate. The fitness test and Harpenden, although I chose a London For me, the Executive took less than three hours and then location (Wigmore Street) since it was close to I could be on my way, once more dragging my bags, first to also surprised me, work. Alongside the tests, I found the main the office and then to an event early in the afternoon to de- in that it told me benefit to be having up to 60 minutes with liver my presentation. Within seven days I had a full written I’m not nearly as a doctor (a GP who also works in the NHS) report emailed to me that summarised the results. They were fit as I thought who was not rushed and with whom you co- broadly okay, although I need to lose weight (not much), sort uld discuss various matters without feeling out my high cholesterol (that’s the end of cheese for me), and guilty about the 20 people outside the door avoid the sun (but not to the extent of becoming a vampire). waiting for their ten-minute slot. At her suggestion, there was a quick check SURPRISING RESULTS for any worrying-looking moles (I’ve been A few weeks later, for the purpose of comparison, I under- travelling to hot countries for more than 30 went an assessment with a Bupa Health Clinic, which offers years, and didn’t always do much to stay out of a set of standardised tests slightly different from those offered the sun), and we discussed cholesterol and weight at the Cromwell, and which are more commonly offered as issues in further detail. part of corporate health screening. These tests are lifestyle The fitness test also surprised me, in that it told me based and include some exercise testing and height and we- I’m not nearly as fit as I thought. I suspect many others ight measurements as well as blood and urine tests (I opted might find the same. Apparently, the odd game of golf out of another prostate examination. You can have too much and an occasional swim doesn’t get you there. The of a good thing.) advice is to exercise in some form every day – a brisk The Bupa website has a checklist so you can decide which walk, for example – and have moderate to exhaustive exercise programme is most suitable for you, ranging from the “li- at least a couple of times a week. ghtest” (and least expensive) Core Health through to Focus, Again, all of these results were emailed to me a few days Enhance and the Peak Health Check. As Bupa says: “A he- later, and in addition are available on the Bupa site, password alth assessment is more than a check-up. It can be the start of protected, and ready to provide information for the next he- a journey towards better health.” alth check in one or five years’ time.

OCTOBER 2019 businesstraveller.pl HEALTH

RUN WITH IT BELOW: What was interesting was that despite me feeling there In the meantime, I was determined to change my lifestyle, Running MOT Clinic was no way I could change how I ran at my advanced age at HCA Healthcare something that is fairly common after an assessment, accor- UK London Bridge (50), I was quite wrong. The video showed that my stride ding to Bupa. Its surveys showed that 80 per cent of custo- Hospital was too long, meaning I was doing a “heel strike” as I ran, mers changed their habits either a little or a lot; that 63 per which not only slowed me down but also caused extra stress cent felt better able to deal with stress; and 58 per cent im- to my back. By increasing my cadence – the number of proved their sleep. strides I take in a minute – the smaller steps meant my So the moment I woke up the next day, I wondered foot strike would be directly below my body, reducing the what exercise to take. For me, the choice was easy – run- impact on my back. In addition, as I ran, my arms were ning. I’m not much good, but I do enjoy it. It’s cheap, coming across my body, which was inefficient, and one foot which is appealing, since I’m from Yorkshire; you can was straying towards the middle line, which again is not take it at your own pace; and it doesn’t require much in good, and explained why occasionally one foot would graze the way of equipment. What’s more, you can do it in against the other as I ran. most of the places you travel to, so it’s a good way of With this analysis (which was also emailed to me) in exploring where you happen to be, and if you’ve got a hand, I left determined to run more regularly, and also run rubbish sense of direction, like me, you get even more in a different way – and so it has proved, which is a real exercise, as you get lost and then have to find your way life-enhancing development. It was simply excellent, and back to your hotel. only took an hour to change the next thousand-plus hours Unfortunately, with a bad back, I’ve had to cut down on of my running. running, but I still want to enjoy it, which is why I found HCA runs private hospitals in London, so as well as the myself having one more assessment – a running gait analysis Running MOT Clinic I had at London Bridge, you could at HCA Healthcare UK London Bridge hospital. try Mole Mapping at the Lister Hospital, use the ENT (ear, This was taken by a physiotherapist, who first of all took nose and throat) service at the London Digestive Centre, me though a questionnaire, then walked me to a gym so she perfect for those of you who keep me awake snoring on lon- could see my range of movement. Lastly, I went on a running g-haul flights, or have a fibroscan – which tests liver func- machine and she videoed my running gait from the front, tion – at the Princess Grace Hospital (among other tests). 53 side and behind. She then analysed it for me, and gave me Depending on family history, there may be other tests some useful strengthening exercises for my glutes and calves you want to consider. I’m wary of joining the ranks of the when it turned out from the tests that these parts of me were “worried well”, but then, compared with being the “unwor- especially weak. ried unwell”, I know which I’d choose. n

businesstraveller.pl OCTOBER 2019 FRAGRANCES

FOUR BIJOU SCENTS

ACQUA DI PARMA Although most of the Italian brand’s scents are available in smaller formats, the Collezione set (£111) is worth singling out, as it contains three 30ml bottles of your choice from the IN bracing, outdoorsy Blu Mediterraneo range. With its contrast of sugary and citrus notes, a combo of Chinotto di Liguria, Arancia di Capri and the re-released Cipresso di Toscana would THE BAG work very well. acquadiparma.com

GALLIVANT In keeping with the London-based 54 perfume-maker’s globetrotting ethos, A growing number of brands all of its fragrances come only are releasing fine fragrances in 30ml bottles (£65 each). Amster- in travel-friendly sizes dam is particularly evocative, mixing pepper and saffron with cedar and a curious, compelling tulip note. gallivant-perfumes.com

ne wish consistently made by perfume WIDE SOCIETY devotees – the sort who need entire war- Designed specifically with travellers in drobes to store their collections – is that mind, this new French brand offers more brands should release their wares in an Escapade set of three 10ml bottles smaller bottles. (€45) and a Weekender collection of Historically, reasons related to econo- six 10ml bottles (€90). Check out Up mies of scale have caused fragrance ho- in the Air, an intoxicating concoction uses to shy away from products below 50ml. But in recent of rum, saffron and birch tar. years,O thanks in part to hand-luggage restrictions, several widesociety.com companies have added compact formats to collections. Nick Steward, founder of Gallivant, believes the trend ties NASOMATTO into a more general move away from the notion of owning Although this Amsterdam just one “signature” scent. “It’s a recognition that times have company’s compositions have always moved on – people want to experiment and have a small war- been released in relatively small drobe of fragrances for different moods, different moments,” bottles, they have recently emerged he says. “It does also make perfume a more appropriate gift in an even more compact – it lessens the risk.” form – a set of three 4ml perfume The result of this shift means that today’s travellers oils (£138). It’s perhaps the most can choose from a substantial range of perfumes that potent way yet in which to don’t have to go into their hold luggage. What’s more, they experience cult favourite Black aren’t too heavy to carry and won’t take up excessive space Afgano – a distinctive take on the shelf of a hotel bathroom. Here are four travel-friendly smoky resins. recommendations. nasomatto.com

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CC BROCHURE z REKLAMAMI.indd 35 13.12.2016 18:54 066_targi.indd 67 28.10.2013 18:35 WORDS CHRIS HALL RACING

The 1973 NavigatorAHEAD is the perfect accompaniment to Tissot’s revived motorsport connections

56 he phrase “sports Group-owned company that carries watch” is a fun- out timekeeping duties for the likes ny thing. To a of Omega, Longines, Blancpain lot of people, it and Tissot – is a cutting-edge tech no doubt me- firm that is constantly coming up ans something with new ways to measure the rubberised and finest margins. digital – made by Garmin or Ap- It’s a legacy of the clustering ple,T perhaps – that can track your of Swiss watch companies into biometrics and deliver sharp elec- large luxury groups that Tissot tric shocks when your activity drops doesn’t get to shout too loudly below a certain rate. Or something about its pedigree in this de- like that; I’m not entirely au fait with partment. Under the aegis of such matters. the Swatch Group, the world’s In contrast, to watch nerds like me, largest horological conglomera- a sports watch is something that, deep te, every brand knows its place and in the distant past, was designed to be for a long time for Tissot that meant worn during one of the more monied unthreatening – predominantly quartz – athletic pursuits, like polo, scuba diving watches priced between £200 and £500. or motor racing. Recently, however, a modicum of personality Of course, even 50 years ago the sporting cre- has been allowed to emerge that has brought Tissot fir- dentials of these watches were more about marketing than mly back in touch with its sporting past. It is once again the idea you or I would actually wear one to take part in sponsor and timekeeper of the Tour de France, having been a sport. But where the Swiss truly did play a fundamen- associated with the race during the late eighties and early tal role is in the field of sports timing. Some of the earliest nineties, and while other brands have had the privilege at chronographs were developed to time horse races, and up various points, there’s something about this that just feels until the digital age a mechanical watch was your best bet FROM LEFT: right. for everything from rallying to boxing. Tissot’s 1973 Still, it’s on four wheels that Tissot has recently rekin- Navigator; Kessel These days, it’s assumed by some that the position of “of- Racing partners with dled two interesting relationships. The first is with carma- ficial timekeeper” is a ceremonial one, when a brand’s me- Tissot; Alex Caffi ker Alpine – now owned by Renault – as it broke back on drives for Kessel at chanical watches may only be accurate to within a few se- the Monaco Grand to the motoring scene after two decades’ absence. Tissot conds a day. But that’s not so. Swiss Timing – the Swatch Prix Historique has been working with Alpine since 2015 via the brand’s

OCTOBER 2019 businesstraveller.pl WATCHES

Tissot has been brought back in touch with its sporting past

endurance racing teams, but the Alpine name had been largely out of the public eye until the acclaimed relaunch of its A110 sports car last year – providing Tissot with some unexpected but welcome publicity. Perhaps the most surprising rebirth has been Tissot’s keen revival of its partnership with Kessel Racing. Sur- prising on one level because there is no shortage of watch brands with a motorsport connection – TAG Heuer in particular – but mostly because it’s unlikely that the name Kessel will mean very much to Tissot’s typical customer. Loris Kessel only raced a handful of times in F1, never tro- ubling the top order, but he went on to found a highly successful endurance racing team as well as one of Swi- tzerland’s most prestigious supercar dealerships. Today, the Kessel Racing team (run by son Ronnie) competes at the Monaco Historic Grand Prix in restored Brabham F1 cars emblazoned with Tissot’s original sponsorship position. Riding on this new wave of automotive celebration is Tissot’s hero piece for the year, a watch known as the 1973 Navigator. It’s a reasonably faithful recreation of a chronograph model originally made in that year, and hits the spot perfectly for today’s market with its barrel-shaped steel case (alternately brushed and polished nicely) and the combination of a black-and-white “panda” style dial with well-judged doses of orange on the chronograph hands. Even the drilled-out leather strap evokes the weight-sa- ZDJĘCIE GŁÓWNE: C60 Trident ving measures of classic racing. It is priced at £1,695 – near Elite 1000 the upper end of the range for Tissot, but a pretty fair price POWYŻEJ: to pay for something that looks like it could easily cost C60 Trident Pro 600 twice that. n businesstraveller.pl OCTOBER 2019 TRIED AND TESTED

WHERE IS IT? On Aldwych, off the Strand and on the edge of Covent Garden.

One Aldwych, ROOMS There are 102 in total (23-78 sqm) – 20 Classic, 40 Superior, 26 Deluxe and 16 London suites. Robert Angell has redesigned them for what the hotel calls a “timeless, residential vibe”. They are in a colour scheme of coral, ce- ladon green, soft blue and lavender and feature British-made furniture, oak parquet floors and throws by Scottish company Skye Weavers. All have Nespresso machines, kettles, free wifi, effective air-conditioning, large Loewe TVs, Bang and Olufsen bluetooth speakers and Dy- son hairdryers. The lighting was easy to adjust Exclusive to hotel guests and health club and there were lots of places to charge devices, members, the Lounge at One was created in including bedside USB ports. Complimentary 2012. It’s a lovely, peaceful space, with a menu international newspapers and shoe shine are of light dishes, cocktails, wines and hot drinks, provided, as is water in glass bottles rather than plus complimentary croissants, juice, fruit, tea plastic. Bathrooms have underfloor heating, and coffee on weekday mornings (6.30-8am). while suites have TVs at the end of the bath. Most Classic and Superior rooms are shower-on- MEETINGS Poised to open as we went to press ly. Amenities are from Mitchell and Peach. was a 30-seat cinema available for private hire. BACKGROUND This hotel relaunched in June There are also several meeting rooms, some after a four-month closure for renovation. You could spend some time overlooking Aldwych (all have good sound- When it first opened in 1998 it was a breath simply touring the property, proofing). of fresh air for London’s hotel scene, with great 58 service, quirky design, a well-known general treating it as an art gallery LEISURE Located in the basement, the health manager – Simon Hirst – and Gordon Cam- club has a good-sized, recently refitted gym pbell Gray as managing director, who was FOOD AND DRINK The Lobby Bar features with a chlorine-free pool, sauna, steam room involved in buying the property’s impressive high ceilings, arched windows and original and treatment rooms. art collection. Having most recently spent panelling. Continental breakfast, light lunch, four years at Raffles Singapore, Hirst returned afternoon tea and evening light bites are VERDICT This excellent update retains the to One Aldwych as managing director for the served, and there is also a new cocktail list. qualities that regulars liked about the hotel. If opening. Indigo restaurant, which is on the mezzanine you want to treat yourself, you’ve come to the floor overlooking the bar, is now brighter and right place. WHAT’S IT LIKE? Back in 1998 Campbell serves a great breakfast (£32 for full English). Tom Otley Gray said the hotel was about “stealth we- Eneko Basque Kitchen and Bar opened in alth rather than dripping deluxe”, and it’s the 2016 and is led by chef Eneko Atxa of three same today. It’s expensive in a tasteful way, Michelin-starred Spanish restaurant Azurmen- and you could spend some time simply to- di. It’s a difficult space to make work for a re- BEST FOR uring the property and treating it like an art staurant, in a cavernous room underground, Luxury and great service in a true gallery – there are about 350 contemporary and perhaps works better in winter than su- five-star boutique setting pieces displayed throughout. From the out- mmer. side, it’s very grand – taking DON’T MISS its name from its position An evening swim in the pool, followed on Aldwych, it was built in by a leisurely breakfast in Indigo the 1907 by Charles Mewès and next morning as a reward Arthur Davis, responsible for the Ritz London and Ritz PRICE Paris. As you enter you’ll see Internet rates for a flexible midweek two papier-mâché dogs by stay in October started from £605 for a Justine Smith – the newest, Classic room made from old one-pound banknotes, joining the Beano CONTACT dog that she created for the One Aldwych; tel +44 (0)20 7300 original opening. By recep- 1000; onealdwych.com tion is Emily Young’s stone sculpture head of Dionysus.

OCTOBER 2019 businesstraveller.pl TRIED AND TESTED

The Alexander, A Luxury Collection Hotel, Yerevan

BACKGROUND The Luxu- ry Collection, previously a Starwood brand and now part of Marriott Interna- tional, comprises more than 100 properties world- is Italiano, the main restaurant, which serves wide. This hotel opened in breakfast, lunch and dinner. It has a bar and a March. Marriott already terrace from where, on clear days, you can see has a property in the Ar- Mount Ararat in Turkey. menian capital, in Repu- blic Square, as well as one MEETINGS There is almost 400 sqm of event in the ski resort of Tsagh- space on the level below ground, with two of kadzor. Traditional Armenian the rooms joining together to form a sort of detailing is featured mini ballroom. A members-only bar on the WHAT’S IT LIKE? The hotel has a 19th-centu- level below is occasionally used for private ry neoclassical façade on Abovyan Street. The throughout the public areas events. interior is completely new and was created by Alexander James International at a total cost -stay studios with kitchens). Rooms have a LEISURE On floor minus three is the Alexan- (including building works) of US$54 million. modern look with geometric carpets, framed der Spa by Anne Semonin. The 11th floor has 59 There are traditional Armenian details thro- stone carvings on the walls and dark-wood a pool with views across the surrounding ro- ughout, most noticeably the vases in the pu- wardrobes. oftops, plus a spa bath and good-sized gym. blic areas, which are copies of ones in the Hi- Entry-level Superior rooms (33 sqm) have story Museum, and in the coloured geometric large flatscreen TVs with satellite channels, VERDICT A luxury hotel that gives a sen- tiling in the lobby and lifts, intended to evoke free wifi, bottled water, minibars, Nespresso se of historic Armenia, while providing the mountainous country around Yerevan. machines, tea facilities, laptop safes, robes, all the comforts of a top-class property. The marble reception desk has also been cut separate baths and showers, twice-daily maid The location is hard to beat. in a way that suggests mountains. I arrived in service and good soundproofing. Next up are Tom Otley the early hours from Moscow and was quickly the 38 sqm Deluxe and Deluxe Twin rooms, checked in, taken to my room and left alone followed by Grand Deluxe (45 sqm) and va- to catch up on some sleep. The staff were ex- rious suites. BEST FOR cellent, recommending good restaurants and Luxury in a historic city that is helping to book day trips to the surrounding FOOD AND DRINK Gabriel’s patisserie has its just opening up for tourism sites, which are an essential part of any trip own street entrance, while Gabriel’s bar and to Armenia. lounge serves an all-day menu, cocktails and DON’T MISS afternoon tea. The Library is a comfortable Having a meal on the terrace with WHERE IS IT? At the foot of Abovyan Street place to relax with a drink. On the top floor views across the roofs towards just before it descends into Republic Square, Mount Ararat the centre of Yerevan and the place all tourists will head to in their first few hours in the ca- PRICE pital. It’s about half an hour’s drive from the Internet rates for airport. The hotel also has a back entrance on a flexible midweek stay to the pedestrianised shopping street of Nor- in October started thern Avenue. from 170,000 drams (£355) for a Superior room ROOMS There are 114 rooms and suites over ten floors, with the gym and pool on level CONTACT 11 and the restaurant on 12. Most look out 3-4 Abovyan Street; either on to Abovyan Street or neighbouring tel +374 11 206000; Pushkin Street, although a few overlook an the-luxury-collection.marriott.com internal courtyard (some of these are long- businesstraveller.pl OCTOBER 2019 TRIED AND TESTED

WHERE IS IT? In Potsdamer Platz, which has Soundproofing in my sixth-floor room was access to the regional rail, S-Bahn and U-Ba- faultless, although one night I was woken by hn. The main station, the Hauptbahnhof, is drunks outside in the street as the large cen- about a five-minute drive away, while Berlin tral window had been left open by houseke- Ritz-Carlton Tegel airport is about 25 minutes and Berlin eping. The positive aspect is you can open the Berlin Schonefeld 40 minutes. window and get some fresh air.

ROOMS There are 303 rooms ranging from FOOD AND DRINK A good choice here. Pots Deluxe (40 sqm) to the 205 sqm Ritz-Carlton restaurant offers a modern interpretation of suite. The art deco-style rooms feature Mar- German cuisine courtesy of head chef Frede- lene Dietrich-inspired paintings, Nespresso rik Grieb and three-Michelin starred patron machines, small sofas, good-sized tables, and Dieter Muller, plus a German wine selection ample plugs (although not UK ones) and featuring more than 200 choices. USB sockets. All have Italian marble bathro- There’s also the lobby lounge, and two excel- oms with separate showers and tubs. Ritz- lent bars that you could quite happily spend Carlton Club rooms (also 40 sqm) are located several hours in – the Curtain Club, open all on the 10th and 11th floors and are available day, and Fragrances, a cocktail bar open only at roughly a €100 supplement, with access to in the evening. Here, resident mixologist the 11th-floor Club lounge included. Arnd Heissen will create a bespoke cocktail for you inspired by your favourite perfume, The revamp has created and if you wish, tell you what it says about a homely feel that nods your personality – don’t worry, it’s always towards 1920s cinema complimentary. BACKGROUND The Ritz-Carlton Berlin ope- MEETINGS Located on the first floor, facilities ned in 2004 as part of the huge rebuilding of include a ballroom that can host 600 guests Potsdamer Platz. It has recently re-emerged for a banquet, plus seven smaller rooms. The 60 from a three-year €40 million renovation. hotel can work with the neighbouring Mar- riott to accommodate larger events. WHAT’S IT LIKE? You never forget the first time you see the buildings of Potsdamer LEISURE There is a small spa, pool and gym Platz, with their plain façades and clean lines, in the basement. a simple version of art deco that the hotel re- design has now brought inside. Occupying VERDICT A very thoughtful renovation and a the first 11 floors of one of these buildings, truly luxurious place to stay. I was particular- the Ritz-Carlton has always been refined, but ly impressed with the service and the two bars was looking a little dated, particularly the and restaurant. bars and public areas. Not any more. The GA Tom Otley Group has created a homely feel that nods towards 1920s cinema, while at the same time remaining very modern. BEST FOR The old chandelier has been removed from Seamless service and attention to detail the lobby and instead there are multiple exploding globes, designed to remind you of DON’T MISS the pop of flashbulbs, with the glass elements Having a drink in Fragrances, of the chandelier evoking champagne flutes. then listening to some live music There is elegant furniture in the side seating in the Curtain Club area and behind the marble staircase, while recurring geometric patterns combine with PRICE a lit sculpture at the back of the lobby that Internet rates for a flexible is covered in the evening, the most obvious midweek stay in July started example of the night and day theme that runs from €278 for a Deluxe room throughout the hotel. The colour palette is mainly champagne gold and chrome with to- CONTACT uches of grey, although the rooms have some The Ritz-Carlton Berlin, purple as well. Service is superb – all staff are Potsdamer Platz 3; helpful, guiding you to whatever you are se- tel +49 (0)30 337 777; arching for and even walking out of the hotel ritzcarlton.com/berlin to give directions.

OCTOBER 2019 businesstraveller.pl TRIED AND TESTED

beds) and can be booked either as an add-on to a normal rail ticket (from £45 for a shared cabin, or from £75 for a cabin to yourself), GWR Night Riviera or by purchasing Sleeper Advan- London-Plymouth ce packages. Cabins are cosy to say the least, but there are little innovations to make the most of the space, including a ladder to the upper bunk that can be folded away when not in use, and an ultra-shallow wardrobe in which I could hang my coat and shirt. Features now include key-card door locks, USB and plug points, free wifi, a service call button, reading lights, air conditioning, blackout blinds, a basin with a fold-down lid that doubles as a small table, storage space for both bunks, and two small mirrors. A bottle of water, a hand towel and soap are also BACKGROUND GWR recen- I was pleasantly provided. Cabins are not ensuite. tly revamped its Night Riviera surprised by how Toilets are located at the end of ARRIVAL Breakfast was delivered service between London and each carriage. at the same time as my wake-up Cornwall. Its sleeper cabins have comfortable the bed I was in a twin room, so was call, just before the train arrived been redesigned while “modern was, and by able to use the upper bunk as ad- into Plymouth at 0511. I had 61 airline-style seats” have been in- ditional storage. I was pleasantly checked beforehand that the tra- troduced in the seated carriages. the quality of the surprised by how comfortable the in would sit on the platform for The Night Riviera runs between pillows and duvet bed was, and by the quality of half an hour (departing at 0545), London Paddington and Penzan- the pillows and duvet. The lower allowing me plenty of time to ce every night except Saturday. my breakfast order, with items bunk is 1.93 metres long, while eat, pack and disembark. The tea The Penzance-bound service de- including tea, coffee, juice, por- the upper one is slightly shorter came in a pot and the bacon roll parts London at 2345, arriving ridge, cereal, a croissant or bacon at 1.89 metres, but conversely was warm and fresh. at 0753, while the Paddington- roll. Cabin passengers also get a the upper bunk is 74cm at its -bound service leaves Penzance free soft drink in the bar carria- widest, which is 2cm wider than VERDICT The revamp has bro- at 2145, arriving at 0523, with ge, which is open throughout the the lower bunk. I slept fairly well, ught cabins up to hotel standard passengers not required to di- journey. I was in bed by 2300, although vaguely remember a with good bedding, USB points sembark until 0645. I was travel- and asleep by the time the train few doors being slammed at sta- and wifi. Friendly staff were on ling to Plymouth, with an arrival departed. tions along the route, and I woke hand throughout, and the Pad- time of 0511. up once when we went around a dington lounge is welcome, with THE CABIN These are either solo sharpish corner, which caused me useful showers. THE LOUNGE GWR’s Padding- (one single bed) or twin (bunk to slide down the bed a little. Mark Caswell ton lounge is located on platform 1, from where the Night Riviera departs. Passengers travelling in JOURNEY LENGTH cabins can use it from 2100. It Five hours 26 minutes has complimentary soft drinks and snacks, desks with power PRICE outlets, and three smart shower A midweek super off-peak rooms. return from London to Plymouth in June costs from £250 when BOARDING Although the Ni- opting for a single use cabin ght Riviera does not depart until 2345, cabin customers can board CONTACT from 2230. I was in cabin 23 in gwr.com coach F. An attendant asked if I wanted a wake-up call and took businesstraveller.pl OCTOBER 2019

SMART TRAVELLER

f you regularly travel, it ma- you regularly use. Bear in mind kes sense to join the loyalty that there are also associated fi- scheme of the airline with nancial products for alliances, me- which the majority of your aning you can accrue additional flights takes place. Most benefits using a credit card allied major carriers are part of with one of them. one of the three airline al- As you rise through the tiers of liances – Oneworld, Skyteam or your airline programme, you will I Star Alliance. also be progressing through the There is no best alliance, but one tiers of that alliance, giving you Tier levels of them will almost certainly suit benefits across member airlines you more than another because of including earning and burning your location and the destinations miles and lounge access. Here’s a explained you regularly visit, or the airlines guide to the benefits available.

ONEWORLD SKYTEAM STAR ALLIANCE RUBY SAPPHIRE EMERALD ELITE ELITE PLUS SILVER GOLD

Lounge access ✓* ✓ ✓ ✓

Priority check-in ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓

Fast track at security ✓ ✓ ✓* 62 Priority boarding ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓

Priority baggage handling ✓** ✓** ✓ ✓ ✓

Preferred or pre-reserved seating ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓

Priority on waitlists and when on standby (subject to individual member carrier’s policy ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ and legal regulations)

Extra baggage allowance ✓*** ✓**** ✓ ✓ ✓**

Guaranteed reservations on sold-out flights ✓

* Business class lounges only * At selected airports ** Apart from flights operated by British ** Additional 20kg with Airways “weight” system or *** Additional 15kg with “weight” system or additional bag with “piece” additional 23kg bag with “piece” system system **** Additional 20kg with “weight” system or additional bag with “piece” system

Alliance members ONEWORLD Number of airlines: 13 KLM, Korean Air, MEA, Saudia, TAROM, Vietnam Airlines, American Airlines, British Airways, Cathay Pacific, Finnair, Xiamen Air Number of lounges: approx 750 Iberia, Japan Airlines, LATAM, Malaysia Airlines, Qantas, Qatar Airways, Royal Jordanian, S7 Airlines, Sri Lankan Airlines STAR ALLIANCE Number of airlines: 28 Plus Fiji Airways (Oneworld Connect partner and so different Adria Airways, Aegean Airlines, Air Canada, Air China, rules may apply), Royal Air Maroc (future member, expected Air India, Air New Zealand, ANA, Asiana Airlines, Austrian mid-2020) Number of lounges: approx 650 Airlines, Avianca, Avianca Brasil, Brussels Airlines, Copa Airlines, Croatia Airlines, Egyptair, Ethiopian Airlines, EVA Air, SKYTEAM Number of airlines: 19 LOT Polish Airlines, Lufthansa, SAS, Shenzhen Airlines, Aeroflot, Aerolineas Argentinas, Aeromexico, Air Europa, Air Singapore Airlines, South African Airways, Swiss, France, Alitalia, China Airlines, China Eastern, Czech Airlines, TAP Air Portugal, Thai Airways, Turkish Airlines, Delta Air Lines, Garuda Indonesia, Kenya Airways, United Number of lounges: more than 1,000

OCTOBER 2019 businesstraveller.pl

Flying with nut allergies

lying can be a source of anxiety for people with nut allergies. The risk of a reaction in a conta- riers including ANA, American Airlines, British Airways, ined environment, 35,000 feet in the air, is a Cathay Pacific and Delta Air Lines extend pre-boarding very real concern, and fears are not allayed by to nut allergy sufferers so that they can wipe down their the varying policies of airlines. seating area in advance. Passengers must bring their own Many carriers follow the International Air sanitising wipes and cleaning products. Transport Association (IATA)’s recommendations for allergen-sensitive passengers as a framework. REQUEST A BUFFER ZONE FNote, however, that there are still no clear-cut rules go- To prevent allergy sufferers from being in close contact verning the in-flight serving of nuts. As a result, airlines with nut products, some airlines create buffer zones, within 63 state that they cannot guarantee a totally allergen-free which neighbouring passengers refrain from eating nuts environment, as it is not possible to ban passengers from during the flight. bringing nut-based products on board or stop them from consuming them. Here is what you can do. PEANUT POLICIES CARRY AN EPI PEN IN YOUR HAND LUGGAGE Bring an adrenaline auto-injector on board and carry The following airlines do not serve peanuts on board: an emergency plan signed by your doctor to ensure that you don’t have problems at security. ■ Air Canada – currently phasing out other nuts in the packaged bar snacks INFORM CABIN CREW AND YOUR NEIGHBOURS ■ Air New Zealand The crew should make a formal announcement before ta- ■ American Airlines – serves other kinds of warmed nuts ke-off, if requested to do so, informing passengers of the ■ British Airways – in-flight menus contain walnuts and cashews situation. At such times, British Airways, Easyjet, Jet2 and ■ Delta Air Lines Ryanair suspend the serving of nut snacks. Not all airlines ■ Easyjet – removing the last of its nut products from its in-flight make a public address, however. range in the coming months ■ Flybe REQUEST A SPECIAL MEAL IN ADVANCE ■ Jetblue Many airlines have refrained from using nuts as an ingre- ■ Korean Air – this came about in March following a widely reported dient in their in-flight meals, but, as IATA puts it, “airlines incident in which two teenage brothers were removed from a flight are unable to provide allergen-free meals because commer- owing to a peanut allergy cial kitchens cannot guarantee compliance”. Where special ■ Lufthansa nut-free meals are not offered, passengers must make their ■ Qantas – passengers may still be served almonds, cashews and own food arrangements. macadamia nuts ■ Singapore Airlines – other nuts are still served in classes other PRE-BOARD TO WIPE DOWN YOUR SEAT than economy Allergic reactions can be caused from skin contact ■ Southwest Airlines with nut particles, which circulate in the air and can set- ■ United tle on fold-down trays, seats and armrests. While airlines perform a quick clean of the cabins from one flight to the UK charity Anaphylaxis Campaign lists next, this is unlikely to get rid of all possible debris. Car- all of the airlines’ policies: anaphylaxis.org.uk businesstraveller.pl OCTOBER 2019 4 HOURS IN...

WORDS HANNAH BRANDLER

64 Glasgow West End

Enjoy fine 1 Clydeside Distillery delicacies. Open daily 10am-5pm; a medieval beginnings through the views, eye- It wouldn’t be right to visit Glasgow one-hour tour costs £15. industrial revolution to its modern catching art without acknowledging Scotland’s theclydeside.com transformation as a digital media and a wee favourite drink. Opened in 2017, this hub. Another highlight is Sophie family-run Scotch whisky distillery Cave’s Floating Heads installation – dram in 1 Scotland’s occupies the Old Pump House buil- Kelvingrove Art Gallery and suspended in the foyer, it comprises ding on Queen’s Dock, from where Museum more than 50 sculptures displaying biggest city the spirit was once exported around Take the overpass above the mo- different emotions. Organ recitals the world. We won’t spoil too much torway to Eastvale Place to see li- take place in the Centre Hall at 1pm of the story, as a tour will reveal more vely murals splashed across ware- Monday to Saturday and at 3pm on of its past, but it’s worth knowing houses and walls. Turn right down Sundays – the 2,889-pipe organ has that this is the first dedicated single Kelvinhaugh Street and left on to been in place since the museum ope- malt distillery to open in Glasgow Yorkhill Street, then carry on along ned in 1901. Open 10am-5pm (from in more than 100 years. Finish your Regent Moray Street until you reach 11am Friday and Sunday); free entry. visit in high spirits by browsing the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Mu- glasgowlife.org.uk/museums drams at the shop; select one of the seum. The red-brick building ho- distillery’s exclusive whiskies from uses exhibitions on everything from the Highland, Lowland or Islay and ancient Egypt to one of Glasgow’s 3 Kelvingrove Park you can get it personalised with a be- most famous sons, Charles Rennie The Kelvingrove Art Gallery and spoke label. There’s also a café with a Mackintosh. The Glasgow Stories Museum is set in the north-west whisky flight menu, allowing you to collection is a must for those inte- part of this Victorian park, which sample four drams alongside Scottish rested in the city’s history, from its was Scotland’s first purpose-con-

OCTOBER 2019 businesstraveller.pl 65

structed green space. Designed 4 Artisan Roast 5 Great Western Road by Sir Joseph Paxton, of Crystal Pa- After working up an appetite from Duly satisfied by coffee and cake, turn lace fame, its 34 hectares are split the steep climb, leave the park via right down Otago Street and then left by the River Kelvin and are home Eldon Street in the north-east and on to the long stretch of Great Western to a diverse range of wildlife and you’ll find this charming café just Road for a spot of shopping. Browse birds, including kingfishers, herons across the bridge at 15-17 Gibson second-hand tomes and collector’s and cormorants, while there are also Street. There are plenty of fresh items at Caledonia Books (number occasional sightings of otters. Wan- sandwiches and cakes on offer – try 483), a family-run store established der along the herbaceous and rho- the fudgy date and caramel brow- in 1986, and old-school garments at dodendron borders, or check out the nies – and the baristas roast their the Glasgow Vintage Company (453). boarders and bikers practising their own beans. The brew bar offers a If you’re passing by at lunch or din- skills at the skate park. If you have range of filter options, with its bean nertime, it’s likely that queues will be the stamina, climb up the staggering selection rotating weekly, and the forming at Paesano Pizza (471), a city granite staircase, which dates back café also sells its beans at the coun- favourite offering authentic Neapoli- to 1854. You’ll be rewarded with ter. The eclectic furnishings include tan sourdough. If nature is more your

ADOBE STOCK, ARCHIVES great views of the city and Glasgow rustic wooden pews and gramopho- thing, then head towards Glasgow University, plus the magnificent nes that have been repurposed as Botanic Gardens, which are free to vi- Georgian mansions of Park Terrace lighting. You’ll spot freelancers sit and open from 7am until dusk. just outside the gate. During sum- and students as well as friends cat- caledoniabooks.co.uk mer, ticketed musical performances ching up here over a brew. It’s glasgowvintage.com take place in the art deco bandstand open 8am-5pm (from 9am on week- paesanopizza.co.uk and amphitheatre. ends). artisanroast.co.uk glasgowbotanicgardens.com

businesstraveller.pl OCTOBER 2019 ASK PETER

PIOTR KALITA VISA TO MOSCOW is related with air I’ve recently overheard news that it’s now transport market possible to enter Russia without a visa. I'm for almost 20 going on a business trip to Moscow in a few years. weeks’ time. Will I have to apply for a visa? COMPENSATION FOR DELAYED FLIGHT He is specializing Is it possible to get it online? I’ve heard you My boss flew from São Paulo to Warsaw via Amsterdam. in corporate and don’t need to visit the embassy anymore to In Amsterdam, he had an hour and 45 minutes to change diplomatic travel obtain it... planes. However, the first flight had a considerable delay, segment. Adam and as a result my boss missed the plane to Warsaw and Have a question? had to wait several hours for the next one. We applied - ask Peter. Dear Adam, for compensation from the airline, but the answer was The news you’ve overheard isn't completely negative. He only got a food voucher to use at an airport true. Indeed, from 1 July 2019 it’s now bar. My question is: why were we denied compensation for possible to apply for electronic visas, but the delayed flight? only for short trips to specific regions of the Janina Russian Federation. This decision by Russian authorities is connected with the growing Dear Janina, tourist traffic to Russian Federation. The According to the documents you have sent to me, the simplified procedure applies to the Kalinin- flight from São Paulo took of with a two-hour delay. grad Region and can be used by citizens of Indeed, in such a situation, it wasn’t possible to change 53 countries, including Poland. The second planes in Amsterdam despite the fact that the planned region is the Far East, with new regulations delay was reduced to one hour. The key factor here is applying to citizens of 18 countries visiting the reason for the delayed departure. The take-off was specific regions (for example, Japanese 66 postponed due to restrictions imposed by the fvlight citizens may use electronic visas to cross the control centre. Such a situation is independent of the border in Vladivostok). airline and unforeseeable for the carrier. That is why, the This means that with the new regu- complaint was rejected and the airline didn’t pay any lations you can now go to Kaliningrad compensation. Region after applying and obtaining the By doing so, the carrier complied with the provisions electronic visa. The visa application must of the EU Directive 261/2004, which sets out the obli- be completed online and the decision is gations of the carrier in the event of disruption of flights issued within a maximum of four days. (delay, cancellation, change of destination airport, The application status can be checked on changes in travel class, denied boarding). The passenger a regular basis. Once you obtain the visa, received assistance appropriate to the situation. In this you need to print it out and carry with you particular case this was a voucher to be redeemed at when you cross the border. The Kalinin- an airport restaurant. If there had been no connection grad Region can be reached by air, sea or to Warsaw on the same day, your boss would have also land. been granted a free overnight stay at a hotel. The electronic visa may be granted to Compensation isn’t paid automatically. Only situations persons travelling for tourism, business which are dependent on the carrier and could have or other purposes (for example, those been foreseen in advance entitle passengers to compen- participating in sporting events, confe- sation. Recent court rulings state that a strike of airline rences, fairs or scientific congresses). The personnel (for example, pilots or flight attendants) applicant's passport must be valid for at is a situation that an airline could have foreseen and least 6 months and have one blank page prevented. If that was the case, your boss would have for border stamps. You can apply for the been entitled to compensation. However, the strike of visa no earlier than 20 days and no later air traffic controllers or airport personnel are situations, than 4 days before the planned date of which are independent of airlines. arrival. Health insurance for the duration In this particular case, your boss can’t be compensa- of the stay is also required. The visa is valid ted and it seems the airline has fully complied with the for 30 days from the date of issue, but the rules by refusing to pay. maximum stay cannot exceed 8 days. When travelling to Moscow, you must apply for a visa at a consulate of the Russian Federation. Usually it's the consulate the closest to where you live.

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