Day 1 – 29.05.2022

Check in and a warm welcome

On the first day of the trip, our talents from all Familux resorts set off to Graz to experience (this much we knew in advance) unforgettable days. The journey time varied, of course – while the Dachstein Kings and Queens only had a two-hour drive to Graz, the colleagues from the Alpenrose and the Familux Resort Oberjoch had to plan for up to seven hours. A long drive undeniably worth taking on.

After checking in at the Hotel Weitzer, the group set off for dinner together at the Gösser Bräu. Here they had schnitzel, burgers and, of course, hearty roast pork, “tastier than at grandma’s”, the staff could be heard smacking their lips in between.

Well nourished, we then went on to explore the city of Graz. Of course we celebrated in true Familux style.

Day 2 – 30.05.2022 

Breakfast, Sightseeing, Food, Food, Food

Because we were afraid of starving to death at a culinary event, we had a super-tasty breakfast at our hotel. (Yes, we admit, in retrospect it really wasn’t necessary).

After we were picked up at the hotel entrance by an electric slow train, we went on a little sightseeing tour through Graz. If you are in the Styrian capital, you shouldn’t miss out on the great sights like the Graz clock tower.

And then we arrived – right in front of the Messezentrum Graz.

After the lanyards for the entrance were handed out, we decided to go our separate ways. While our chefs were still marvelling at the latest knives, herb corners and oil variations, the patisserie was already on its way to the sweet exhibitors.

In between tasting a delicious beef tartar, devouring Asian dumplings or even sipping a gin cocktail – at the Rolling Pin Convention, every gourmet taste is catered for.

The TOP organised convention left nothing to be desired and we all got our money’s worth. What a day!

One highlight followed the other – and so we were able to get lots of inspiration and collect many ideas for implementation in our resorts. The passion for culinary arts could be felt in every one of the 6,000 square metres of the hall and the exchange with other industry colleagues, suppliers and producers was especially valuable.  

The 60 top speakers on the 4 different stages (Main Stage, Wine Stage, Bar Stage, Chefs Stage) shared their biggest secrets with us and were still open for further discussions after their performance.

After the impressive day at the event, we went straight on to Bar Katze Katze, THE place to be in Graz. A welcome drink was already waiting for us here.

In order to be able to review the many different impressions in peace and quiet and in a cosy atmosphere, we moved to the cellar. You are probably thinking, “In the cellar – that’s super strange”. Yes, that’s what we thought too at first. But the surprise was even bigger when we got there. Instead of a cellar, the restaurant Miss Cho was waiting for us in the basement. As soon as we entered, we felt at home, which was not only due to the super aesthetic furnishings, but also to the great service team, who could read our every wish from our eyes.

And because the choice of food was so difficult and no one could decide, without further ado we ordered (almost) the entire menu and wildly tried the individual Asian dishes, which were served in the middle of the table. From sushi and scallops to fried noodles and teriyaki salmon, everything was there.

After the meal, we went back up to the bar’s inner courtyard, where a DJ and many other fairgoers had gathered in the meantime. The atmosphere was incredible and you could tell that every single person wanted to end the perfect day even more perfectly at the after-show party. Once again, we were able to exchange ideas with our industry colleagues and toast to an unforgettable day in a party mood. And of course, the Familux team celebrated again and popped the corks. Business as usual, right?

Day 3 – 31.05.2022

And again,

Because there was still so much to do on the following day and we still didn’t have enough, part of the team went straight back to the exhibition centre to continue where we left off the day before. Eating, drinking, networking, eating, drinking, exciting talks, eating, drinking, inspiration – yes, we could go on forever.

On the journey home, of course, we had a lot to talk about, because everyone felt that a different highlight was “the best”.

But there is one thing everyone agrees on: 

We as a team are unbelievably grateful to be able to work in such great companies, where we always get the opportunity to learn, exchange ideas and grow beyond ourselves in workshops and excursions.

Thank you very much for inviting us to these great days, dear Mayer family.

Together is better!