Creative buzz enhances Berlin's appeal

Creative buzz enhances Berlin's appeal
By admin


Berlin continues to be the most popular German destination for Australian travellers, with its unconventional, relaxed vibe and flourishing creative scene proving major drawcards.

Visit Berlin market manager Ralf Ostendorf pointed to the city's success in reinventing itself as a creative hub during the recent economic downturn. Its thriving music, fashion and arts scenes are now key drivers of growth from the Australian market, he said.

Although not one of its top markets, Australia is becoming an increasingly significant target for the city, with Australian visitation "gathering momentum". Aussie numbers to Berlin during the first five months of the year rose 10% year on year to hit 12,000.

Although concerned that distance and access would act as deterrents for Australian travellers, Ostendorf said he had been reassured by agents that during his recent visit to Australia that this is "not a problem" due to the city's strong artsy reputation.

“It has a sexiness like New York City had 10 years ago,” Ostendorf told Travel Today. "Berlin is not German – it is much less conservative."

The city's community of more than 400,000 gays and lesbians has created strong appeal for worldwide GLBT markets, he added.

Its relative affordability also has major appeal for travellers concerned by high prices in a variety of European cities.

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