Many influencers come to Munich every year and portray the magic of the city through videos, articles and photos. We’ve asked some of them to respond to a questionnaire so we can get an insight into their creative work and find out what they love about Munich. This time: Sarah Althaus from Zurich, content creator and face behind the “Rapunzel will raus” (Rapunzel wants out) travel blog.
Have you ever been to Munich before?
I was already familiar with Munich having previously travelled here twice to visit a friend, though that was quite a while ago. The first time I came it was all about Oktoberfest, and then the second time the main event was the Christkindlmarkt (Christmas market). So I was really happy to be coming to actually see the city this time.
And how did you find it?
Relaxed, green and full of variety. I experienced the city on foot, exploring while I walked the east-west passage touring route. What I discovered was a huge amount of green space, loads of art and really diverse vegetarian cuisine.
What did you like best?
I liked that the Munich food scene really explodes the “Schweinebraten und Wurst” (roast pork and sausages) cliché about Bavarian food. In fact Munich is a veritable paradise for vegetarian and vegan food-lovers, whatever the stereotypes would have you believe. You can find anything you want here, from vegan hot dogs to award-winning vegetarian cuisine.
What was the most interesting place?
The Werksviertel-Mitte area. This new district is full of startup businesses, as well as high-end hotels, concert halls and restaurants, not to mention street art and urban gardening. It is intended to be a city district made by the people for the people, and to represent the diverse mix of residents in Munich. The district’s regeneration is in full swing, and new things spring up there every few weeks. I would like to visit Werksviertel-Mitte again in five years and see how it has come on.
The tastiest food?
The food at the Gratitude Eatery in Maxvorstadt is really delicious. I definitely recommend the Moroccan bowl.
What was your favourite encounter?
My visit to Nicki Marquardt’s milliner’s shop made a big impression. Even for people who don’t wear hats, it’s fascinating to get an insight into the milliner’s craft. Her passion for head coverings was palpable, and after leaving the shop I found myself feeling the urge to start wearing a hat again.
What was the best moment?
Sitting in the beer garden with my best friend and drinking a litre of Radler (shandy) for the first time!
What did you learn?
That Munich is a very interesting city for art lovers. With the Pinakothek art museums, Museum Brandhorst and a wealth of temporary exhibitions, you could easily spend an entire weekend just in Munich’s museums.
What did you take home with you?
Obadzda – the delicious spread made with camembert and paprika, which I always associate with Munich. And also the knowledge that there is a version of Munich which has nothing to do with snobbery and chic, and that the city has a number of green and alternative areas to offer.
What recommendations would you give a friend visiting Munich?
To go and see the works of Andy Warhol at Museum Brandhorst; and then relax in the Englischer Garten (park), where you can watch surfers riding the Eisbachwelle wave.
What do you definitely want to do next time you visit?
I would like to explore more of Munich by walking the north-south passage next, so I can say I have seen the entire city once.
Which photo of Munich got the best response from your followers?
People loved the Munich Friedensengel (monument) in particular.
And which is your favourite photo? Why?
The photo of me in Werksviertel-Mitte. I like urban spaces, and I like street art even more. I do try to make sure I’m in my photos from time to time, though I am most comfortable being behind the camera. That’s why I’m always happy to get a good photo of myself.
What is your personal tip for taking the perfect holiday photo?
Change your perspective. Look up, look behind you, and strike a different pose for a photograph rather than just standing there.
And what are your top three travel tips?
Don’t plan out every moment, try new foods, and always peek around the next corner to seek out unfamiliar paths.
Finally: what do you think Munich locals mean by the Bavarian expression Lefdutti*? Do you have any idea?
That is a difficult question and I honestly haven’t a clue! Something you can eat, maybe?
*Lefdutti is a Bavarian word meaning servant/minion
Who are you and what do you do?
People often say to me: “Ah, so you’re Rapunzel!” But my name is Sarah, and since 2013 I have been writing about destinations all over the world in Rapunzel will raus. Whether travelling alone, as a couple or, as I do now, with two small children, I am familiar with different travel styles and I know about the challenges that come with them. Today my partner and I write together about travelling, financial freedom and how we can live our life on our terms.
What is the greatest challenge in your work?
To stop working and just take a break every now and then. That is partly because of the nature of my work, but also something of a problem with me personally. I find it difficult to switch off and am always working, at least in my mind. Taking breaks is very worthwhile and can totally re-energise you – something I am well aware of, but I still sometimes fail to do it all the same.
Where do you get inspiration for your work?
I find inspiration everywhere. However it’s also something intrinsic to me, because travelling and exploring are my favourite aspects of what I do. Every time I step outside the house could be the start of a new adventure, and I am always happy to be on the move. Even just looking at a map of the world is so inspiring and instantly gets me dreaming.
Thanks so much, Sarah!
