Many influencers come to Munich and convey 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: Anita Brechbühl from Zurich, the writer behind the Travelita travel blog.
How did you imagine Munich before you came here?
On my first “proper” visit last year, I initially perceived Munich to be a diverse, pleasantly green city and I was excited to find out if this first impression would be confirmed when I took a walking tour of the city.
And what was the reality?
My walking tour along the east-west passage actually reinforced my first impressions, though it also offered me many new perspectives on Munich. From expansive parks and magnificent buildings to the more alternative and creative neighbourhoods, the city is incredibly multifaceted.
What did you like best?
The Maximiliansanlagen public parkland, which extends along the east bank of the Isar from the Friedensengel (monument) to Bogenhausen graveyard. In spite of its proximity to the city centre, it is very quiet there early in the morning, and its slightly elevated position affords a beautiful view of the city surroundings.
What was the most interesting place?
I found Munich’s Kunstareal (Art District) enchanting both times I visited as well. I like the area around the Museum Brandhorst and the Pinakotheks. There is just an unbelievable amount to discover here.
What was your favourite encounter?
A chat with hatter and master milliner Nicki Marquardt, in her “Hut Couture” shop in Maxvorstadt. The walking tour passes close by her shop and it’s really worth taking time to look around it and be captivated by Nicki Marquardt’s infectious passion for fashionable and functional head coverings.
The tastiest food? The best drink?
I was really impressed by the delicious dishes and refreshing drinks I enjoyed in Gartensalon in the Amalienpassage arcade.
What did you learn?
That Munich’s northwest has an exciting development area of its own to show off. Unlike the Werksviertel (industrial quarter) in the southeast, the Kreativquartier (creative quarter) is a bit more rough around the edges – making it all the more exciting to see how the planned focus on art, culture and knowledge will develop over the coming years.
What did you take home with you?
Lots of new impressions, and a conviction that it is worthwhile to change your focus during a city trip, to devote time to smaller discoveries along the way rather than just the usual top attractions. It is definitely much more relaxing.
What was the best moment?
After the walking tour we went back to the Englischer Garten (park) to enjoy the sunset and atmosphere – in typical Munich fashion – from the Monopteros. It was a great way to finish off a day spent exploring the city on foot.
What three recommendations would you give a friend visiting Munich?
Go to Maxvorstadt – I love all the small, sustainable shops there. Then to Auffahrtsallee – the breathtaking sightline towards Nymphenburg Palace is an absolute must-see. And then to the Englischer Garten, of course.
What do you definitely want to do next time you visit?
The north-south passage – makes sense, right?
Which photo of Munich got the best response from your followers?
The breakfast photo from the Jams hotel – it just looks really delicious! Of course it tastes great too.
And which is your favourite photo? Why?
The photo of the Alte Pinakothek – I love the combination of the meadow full of daisies and the unfocused effect, which really emphasises the symmetrical architecture of the Pinakothek.
What is your personal tip for taking the perfect holiday photo?
When I can, I try to avoid photographing the obvious subjects; I prefer to try and find new perspectives.
And what are your top three travel tips?
Openness, curiosity and taking pleasure in discovery – that means you’ll be sure to get the most out of walking around the city.
Finally: What do you think people in Munich mean when they use the Bavarian expression Schmoizla*? Do you have any idea?
Honestly – not a clue! If I were to make a wild guess, I would say it has something to do with the word “Schmalz” (lard) – schmelzen (to melt) or schmieren (to smear) perhaps. But I’m probably way off!
Who are you and what do you do?
I have been writing about weekend trips, city breaks and long-distance travel on my blog, travelita.ch, since 2012. I want my travel stories to inspire even committed couch potatoes to get out there and swap the sofa for a pair of trekking shoes, and explore the world with curiosity. I always have a camera at hand on my travels so I can capture the best moments for my readers.
Where do you get inspiration for your work?
From magazines, online publications, books, and many other places – there are so many sources of inspiration out there that I sometimes find it difficult not to be overwhelmed by the abundance of ideas available, and to bring together the most exciting content to inform my own projects.
What is the greatest challenge in your work?
Finding topics that really allow you to pass on new impressions to your readership, rather than simply sharing tips that have already been published a thousand times on the internet.
Thanks, Anita!
Anita visited Munich last year, when she viewed the city from above and explored the Glockenbachviertel, among other things. Find out more about her last visit: What do Munich locals mean when they say “Gspusi”, Anita Brechbühl?
