Monocle Quality of Life Conference 2023: Munich

Still buzzing after returning from last weekend’s Monocle Quality of Life Conference in Munich. This truly unique experience with nearly 200 delegates from around the globe in an intimate setting listening in on some of the world’s top experts, execs, creatives, public servants and professionals at Allianz HQ bordering the venerable Englischer Garten.

Speakers ranging from entrepreneurs manufacturing innovative micro e-cars, such as Merlin Ouboter (son of the inventor of the modern kick scooter) of Microlino, to heads of offices of public realm like Ya-Ting Lei of NYC, to young, dynamic mayors (for contrast and commonality) like Matúš Vallo of Bratislava and Eric Johnson of Dallas respectively, to Carsten Spohr, the CEO of Lufthansa, discussing air travel now and in the future.

There was an overwhelming consensus amongst the speakers and delegates alike that the event lent a convivial energy throughout the proceedings, whether sharing Negroni Sbagliato at the famous Schumann’s Bar on the formal Hofgarten, at the main HQ auditorium, over a four-course dinner at Gallerie Thomas, or at Club Bayerischer Hof, where many of us celebrated into the early hours. You were an absolute legend if you made the 8:30am 5k run the following day. I, for one, did not. -HD. Photos ©Manuel Nieberle, 2023

Båstad: Summer Playground in Southern Sweden

2016 SkiStar Swedish Open

Båstad on the southwestern tip of Sweden has long been a popular getaway and party capital to many Swedes and visitors from around the world.  Over a two-week period, with it's (actual) sandy beaches, hotels and b&b's, beautiful countryside and the SkiStar Swedish Open (Men's 7/10-7/17) and the Ericsson Open (Women's 7/17-7/24), it's a relaxed atmosphere where top tennis professionals come after the gravity of Wimbledon, where one can kick back and enjoy themselves.

Accommodations

There are many attractive options for lodging in and around the area, from the many quaint and cozy b&b's to small inns to larger more luxurious  hotels, most notably Hotel Skansen, which is located in the middle of the tournament grounds in Båstad.

Båstad Resort and Sports Complex

What's on this week

The SkiStar Swedish Open is one of those unique venues that affords an intimate experience viewing top players close up in competition.  Hotels, shops, the marina and scenic beaches are a 'no-brainer' when it comes to a destination that thinks outside the tourism 'box'.