Out of this world! 

THE WYLD – out of this world

ARCOTEL Velvet Berlin, with its attractive and central location in “Mitte”, a borough of Berlin, is truly just a few steps away from the world of art and culture! From here you can access the highlights of Berlin’s theatre scene on foot in just a few minutes. You’ll find one of the gems of this scene literally just around the corner: the Friedrichstadt-Palast, with the world’s largest theatre stage!

“A fixed star of evening entertainment in Berlin”, “Las Vegas in Berlin”…reviews of the famous show palace from the “Süddeutsche Zeitung” and the “Sunday Times”, to quote just two examples. With its dimensions you could even say it is the only one of its kind in the world! It’s best to come and see for yourself with a visit to the new show “THE WYLD – out of this world”! Let over 100 artists dazzle you in a unique show of world-class artistry. The Friedrichstadt-Palast itself describes its new highlight with these words: “THE WYLD – this is human nature in all its facets and the wilderness of the metropolis. It is populated by flamboyant mavericks, city slickers and intergalactic metamorphoses – ultra-modern and archaic, bizarre and futuristic.”

Staying at the ARCOTEL Velvet Berlin you will not only experience this impressive show, but also enjoy a relaxing overnight stay just next door! You will stay in one of our comfortable Superior rooms where a cosy and relaxed atmosphere awaits you. In the evening you’ll be able to enjoy a glass of sparkling wine at our bar VELVET LOUNGE to get yourself in the mood for the show. After a visit to the Friedrichstadt-Palast and a good night’s sleep, you can lie in for as long as you want the next day as you have the room until 3 pm! 

Enjoy Berlin with our special “THE WYLD – the new SHOW” –
it can be reserved for the period of 7th October 2014 to 30th September 2015:
                                              
•    1 overnight stay in the Superior room
•    Ticket(s) for the “THE WYLD” show from the Friedrichstadt-Palast Berlin
     (for the 7.30 pm evening performance in Category 2)
•    1 glass of sparkling wine in the VELVET LOUNGE on the day of the performance
•    1 bottle of mineral water per stay in the room
•    Late check-out up to 3 pm on the day of departure

Just book online here!

If you have any questions please contact our team from the reservations department: 
E reservation.velvet@arcotelhotels.com | T +49 30 278 753 914

ARCOTEL Velvet Berlin | Oranienburger Straße 52 | 10117 Berlin
T +49 30 278 753-0 | E velvet@arcotelhotels.com

Everything taken care of at the Berlin Marathon 2014!

The world-famous BMW Berlin Marathon takes place again on 28 September 2014! For the 41st time, keen runners from all over the world will meet with just one goal in mind: to complete the 42-kilometre course without any major aches and pains.

Copyright SCC EVENTS/PHOTORUN

When it comes to preparing for a race like this, nutrition is every bit as important as training, which is why our Berlin sister hotel, the ARCOTEL John F at Werderschen Markt, is offering a special Pasta Buffet to mark the occasion for the third time! Spaghetti with basil pesto, cherry tomatoes and grated cheese, grilled chicken breast with herbed rice and courgettes, or Mediterranean pasta salad with tuna and olives are just some of the dishes that will provide runners with the carbohydrates they need before the big day. Fresh salads, soups and fruit complete the menu at the Pasta Party on the evening of 27 September 2014.

Pasta Buffet at the ARCOTEL John F Berlin
Price: EUR 19.90 per person
To make a reservation, please contact:
+49 30 40 50 46-1800 or restaurant.johnf@arcotelhotels.com
 

Nutrition is just as vital once the main event is over to give the body an opportunity to recover properly. As bananas contain practically everything an athlete needs to do this, we will be supplying our hotel guests with this delicious yellow fruit at the ARCOTEL Velvet Berlin on marathon Sunday! Bananas are one of the most popular fruits among athletes, and with good reason. Firstly, they are high in carbohydrates, replenishing carbohydrate reserves both during and after physical exertion and providing an energy boost. Secondly, bananas have a very low starch content, making them easy to digest and easier on the stomach during sporting activities.

The next day, athletes and spectators at both hotels will have the opportunity to enjoy a fresh regional breakfast. In conjunction with our culinary neighbours at BERLIN_THEKE, the ARCOTEL Velvet Berlin will be offering a hearty breakfast buffet on Monday 29 September 2014. With delicacies ranging from hearty to sweet in a comfortable atmosphere filled with typical Berlin flair and a passion for art, this event provides the perfect ending to the marathon weekend!

Breakfast at BERLIN THEKE next door

ARCOTEL Velvet Berlin | Oranienburger Straße 52 | 10117 Berlin
T +49 30 278 753-0 | E velvet@arcotelhotels.com

Curtain Up!

The “HackeschenHöfe”, a historic courtyard complex which now houses an outstanding range of shops, galleries and restaurants, is an absolute MUST for any visitor to Berlin. It is also home to the legendary Chamäleon Theater. Our special “Curtain Up!” package provides an opportunity to experience the charm of the HackeschenHöfe at first hand by attending the latest show to hit the theatre – CROSSROADS.

Enjoy the cosy atmosphere of one of our comfortable Superior Rooms before getting in the right mood for the evening ahead over a glass of sparkling wine in our VELVET LOUNGE. A heady mix of circus artistry, dance choreography and live music then awaits you on the stage of the Chamäleon Theater, just a short walk away.

Enjoy Berlin with our special “Curtain Up!” offer:

•     One night’s accommodation in a Superior Room
•     One glass of sparkling wine per person on the day of the performance
•     One bottle of mineral water per stay provided in your room
•     Ticket(s) for the show CROSSROADS at the Chamäleon Theater Berlin  
•      (best possible seats, at least Category 2)

Price: from EUR 112,00

Can be reserved up to7 days in advance. Available from 26 August 2014 to 22 February 2015. Performance times: Tue - Fri: 8:00 pm, Sat - Sun: 6:00 pm. .

Simply book online or contact a member of our Reservations team:
E reservation.velvet@arcotelhotels.com
T +49 30 278 753 914

3 Good Reasons to Visit Berlin at Easter 

In his “Easter Walk” Goethe made it eminently clear why the Easter holidays are the perfect occasion for spending time outdoors and enjoying the awakening of spring. And even though you might not think so, our city has some fantastic nature highlights to offer! See for yourself and enjoy fun and adventure for all the family on a trip to Berlin.

Eggology at the museum
Under the title “Everything you need to know about eggs” the Natural History Museum is organising an egg rally for children between the ages of 8 and 12. Against an original backdrop youngsters can learn all sorts of interesting things about eggs – from the egg on the breakfast table to the much larger dinosaur egg. And of course, things get really colourful in the afternoon when they have the chance to paint some eggs! 

When: Sunday, 20 April, 3.00 p.m. | Where: Museum of Natural History | Invalidenstr. 43
Please register at: E besucherservice@mfn-berlin.de | T 030 2093-8550
Contribution to costs: Children € 5 plus admission charge | Adults admission charge only.
 
A zoo trip with a difference
As well as the chance to see the animals, Berlin Zoo is offering a special challenge for guests of all ages: an Easter Rally that takes you to every corner of the zoo in search of the answers to a host of tricky questions! Simply pick up your questionnaire at the “Löwentor” entrance and then the rest is up to you!

When: Sunday, 20.04.2014, 11.30 a.m. - 2.00 p.m. | Where: Berlin Zoo | Hardenbergplatz 8
Admission: http://bit.ly/Eintritt_Zoo

Easter Walk with highlights
What would Easter Monday in Berlin be without a walk! The city on the Spree even has cultural entertainment to add to the pleasure! A creative quartet in the zoo provides musical accompaniment and spring poems. Schloss Friedrichsfelde offers little ones the chance to try their hand at arts and crafts, a story hour and a host of other highlights.

When: 21.04.2014, 11:30 a.m. | Where: Berlin Zoo | Am Tierpark 125
Admission: the normal admission charge: http://bit.ly/Eintritt_Tierpark

The team at the ARCOTEL Velvet Berlin wishes you a very happy Easter!

Three highlights just around the corner! 

 

Berlin is lively, creative, and above all, fun! The city offers an incomparable range of entertainment and its fascinating cultural diversity never ceases to amaze. Berlin has become a global city of culture, politics, media and science, and is very successful in international city and conference tourism, ranking in third place in Europe behind London and Paris. Its central location in the "Mitte" art and culture district means that the ARCOTEL Velvet Berlin is an ideal starting point to discover this energetic capital city with all it has to offer.

The Hackesche Höfe

The Hackesche Höfe is Germany's largest covered courtyard complex. The eight magnificent courtyards are spread over an area of 27,000 square metres and accommodate exclusive boutiques, galleries, cafés and entertainment opportunities.

Hackesche Höfe

KW Institute for Contemporary Art in Berlin

The KW Institute has been one of the leading addresses in the Berlin art scene since 1991 and views itself as a promoter of contemporary art in Berlin. They have no collections of their own, but present temporary exhibitions and events on an area of 2000m².

Admiralspalast theatre

Admiralspalast theatre

The Admiralspalast theatre in Friedrichstraße is one of the most beautiful events locations in the heart of the capital. It is one of the few large places of entertainment that has been preserved from the start of the 20th century, which developed back then into one of the most important cultural hotspots in the city thanks to its unique blend of high culture and the club scene, glitter and glamour, intimacy and extravagance.

Sightseeing with a new twist!

The possibilities for exploring the city are as diverse as Berlin itself. Whether you want to find your way around the city while playing a game or are looking for a major dose of humour, we’ll let you in on the secrets of how you can explore our amazing capital and have a huge amount of fun while you’re at it!

The so-called “City Rallyes” offer a perfect combination of active sight-seeing with a fun factor. Get to know the many facets of Berlin on a range of varied routes with a modern scavenger hunt. You’ll make your way around on foot or by bicycle – how else will you find the answers to the tricky questions about the sights or historic events in the city! You have to solve the first challenge at the starting point of your tour and then you’ll discover the next destination on your sight-seeing tour. And so the game continues – full of excitement and with not a boring moment – until you finally reach the finish with an award ceremony for the winners!
 
Of course that’s not all, because as well as the classic tour, the company “Berlin Rallye” has a number of special tours that are in a class of their own! Fall under the spell of the twenties as you get to know the entertainment capital on the “Marlene Dietrich & the Golden Twenties” tour. Equipped with a tour book full of questions and challenges, you and your team can follow in the footsteps of that unique diva Marlene Dietrich. Or delve into the city’s history and look for traces of the Berlin Wall! On the “Berlin Wall Rallye” for example, you’ll find the answers to the following questions: “Where exactly did the wall run? Are there any remains of the wall in the city? And how did life change with the fall of the wall?”

Duration:      three to five hours
Price:           from EUR 20.00
Contact:       http://www.berlin-rallye.com/
 
Fans of German comedy on the other hand
should definitely take a ride on the ComedyBus while they are in Berlin. Enjoy a light-hearted drive past the most beautiful but also most terrifying attractions in the city, in the company of some rather “different tour guides”. In fact, you’ll be sharing the bus with some of the city’s best-known top comedians who will be slipping into the role of a city guide for a change. There are plenty of
laughs for example on a sightseeing tour
with Ades Zabel: as Berlin’s most prominent
welfare recipient and V.I.P. housewife Edith Schröder she will take you on an amusing ride through Berlin on a comfortable coach. From Moabit and Neukölln to Wedding – you’ll get to know all sorts of interesting corners off the beaten tourist track and give your laughing muscles a great workout at the same time.

Duration:      depending on traffic, approx. 105 minutes
Price:           from EUR 25.00
Contact:       http://www.comedy-im-bus.de/
 
We are more than happy to help you book your tickets! Simply contact the team on the reception desk.

Contact:
ARCOTEL Velvet Berlin | Oranienburger Straße 52 | 10117 Berlin
T +49 30 278 753-0 | E velvet@arcotelhotels.com

SHOW ME!

As of 21 February 2014 the Friedrichstadt-Palast Berlin will boast yet another highlight in its programme when the revue SHOW ME returns to the largest theatre stage in the world under the motto “Glamour is back”.

“SHOW ME offers outstanding entertainment that draws on the capabilities of our time. Experience subtle, poetic moments which are underlined by special effects, such as an over 20 metre high waterfall. With 162 participants, including more than 100 artists, the revue is the largest ensuite show in the world!

Our new offer lets you enjoy the show with an extra touch of magic, as you’ll be staying at the ARCOTEL Velvet Berlin just around the corner from the Friedrichstadt-Palast. Relax in the cosy atmosphere of your comfortable Superior room and in the evening enjoy a glass of sparkling wine in our VELVET LOUNGE bar before going off to see a stunning performance of SHOW ME. Featuring more than 100 artists on the biggest theatre stage in the world, the revue will transport you to a unique world of superlative artistry. Sleep in the next day for as long as you like, as your room is available to you until 3.00 p.m.!

Enjoy Berlin with our special “Fascinating Friedrichstadt-Palast”:
•    One night in a Superior room
•    Ticket(s) for the revue SHOW ME at the Friedrichstadt-Palast Berlin
     (for the evening performance at 7.30 p.m. in category 3)
•    One glass of sparkling wine per person on the day of the performance 
      in the VELVET LOUNGE
•    One bottle of mineral water in your room
•    Late check-out up to 3.00 p.m. on the day of your departure
•    Generous buffet breakfast

Price: starting EUR 139.00

Can be booked up to 14 days before you arrive. Can be booked for the period 21 February to 19 July 2014.

Please contact a member of our Reservations team for your booking: 
E reservation.velvet@arcotelhotels.com | T +49 30 28 88 65 78 96

Enjoy the Fascination of Friedrichstadt-Palast

With its attractive and central location in the “Mitte” district, you really do have the world of art and culture at your feet when you stay at the ARCOTEL Velvet Berlin! The highlights of Berlin’s theatre scene are just a few minutes’ walk away. Quite literally around the corner is one of the jewels in Berlin’s theatrical crown: the Friedrichstadt-Palast, which boasts the biggest stage in the world!

The dimensions of the show palace are unequalled in the world – and the best way to appreciate this is to book a ticket for the current variety show “berlin ERLEUCHTET”! The show will transport you into a gorgeous fantasy world to let you experience winter at its most captivating as you are bedazzled by singers, a show ballet and world class artists who take you on a spectacular journey full of colour through the winter wonderland. In a furious and festive finale, the stage and the auditorium together with the guests are sunk in a phenomenal snow storm and fulfil the dream of a white winter.

Experience the stunning winter show and spend a stress-free night in a hotel just around the corner: Our “Berlin in Winter” package lets you experience Berlin in winter in a most unusual fashion! Relax in the cosy atmosphere of one of our comfortable Superior rooms and in the evening enjoy a glass of sparkling wine in our VELVET LOUNGE bar to put yourself in the mood for the show. Featuring more than 100 artists, the show will transport you into a unique winter wonderland. Sleep in the next day for as long as you like, as you don’t have to check out until 3.00 p.m.!  
 

Enjoy Berlin with our special “Berlin in Winter”:
(Available 7 January 2014 - 1 February 2014)
                                          
•    1 night in a Superior room
•    Ticket(s) for the show “berlin ERLEUCHTET“ 
      at the Friedrichstadt-Palast Berlin 
•    1 glass of sparkling wine per person on 
      the day of the performance
•    1 bottle of mineral water in your room
•    Late check-out up to 3.00 p.m.
•    Generous buffet breakfast 

Click here to book the package "Berlin in Winter" via our website! 

If you have any questions, please contact our Reservations team:
E reservation.velvet@arcotelhotels.com | T +49 30 278 753-0

New Year’s Eve in the Capital

Berlin is not just the capital of Germany, but also the capital of music and a great place to party with a fantastic atmosphere. In a nutshell: Berlin is the perfect place to celebrate New Year’s Eve! Hardly any other city offers such a wide range of spectacular events and highlights in celebration of the New Year. So the city has much more to offer than just the world’s biggest New Year Eve’s Open Air Party! Our team from the ARCOTEL Velvet Berlin has put together three tips for you, with something for every taste:

Rock and Roll and Twirling Petticoats!
Music fans should get ready for the liveliest party in town in Berlin’s biggest disco ball. See in the New Year with rock and roll and twirling petticoats in Berlin’s TV Tower! As well as a sensational view of all the fireworks going up over the city, guests can look forward to super gala buffet! Tickets can be obtained here.

Ship Ahoy!
Enjoy the essence of Berlin at the “New Year’s Eve Party on the Spree” on the former cargo ship MS Kurier! The upper deck offers a perfect view of many of the sights in Berlin such as the historic East Side Gallery and the Molecule Man. An all-inclusive open bar, generous New Year’s Eve buffet and, of course, some great music ensure a lively party. Click here to come on board!

Raise the Curtain!
You can also celebrate New Year’s Eve in style just around the corner from the ARCOTEL Velvet Berlin! The Galli Theatre offers a rousing show in the style of a colourful variety performance that features drama, dance and song. As a further highlight, the New Year’s Eve Party after the Champagne and Fireworks reception is interspersed with short performances. Tickets are available from: http://galli-berlin.de/

Set in an ideal location in the heart of the arts and culture scene, the ARCOTEL Velvet Berlin is the perfect place to see in the New Year. Get in the mood for the evening ahead with a delicious drink in our Bar VELVET LOUNGE before plunging into the New Year’s Eve nightlife. One of the hotel’s finest features is the roof terrace which offers a fantastic view over the Berlin skyline – the perfect place to marvel at the many firework displays!
 
Enjoy New Year’s Eve in the heart of Berlin – at the ARCOTEL Velvet Berlin – for as little as EUR 219,00 per night! 

We look forward to receiving your booking enquiry at:
T +49 30 288 86 578 96
E reservation.velvet@arcotelhotels.com

Christmas comes but once a year - The festive Season in Berlin

When temperatures fal and the days grow shorter, Berlin is bathed in a festive glow: Christmas markets open their doors and entice visitors with the seductive fragrance of roast almonds and mulled wine. in the evening streets and trees are all lit up, windows and balconies are richly decorated - Christmas is in the air!

Berlin is home to a host of Christmas markets, which are as diverse as the city itself. One of the loveliest is the Weihnachtszauber Gendarmenmarkt (25 November to 31 December 2013), which is just an easy five minutes walk away from ARCOTEL John F Berlin. In a historic setting, this market has a strong focus on arts and crafts while jugglers, acrobats and fire artists ensure a versatile side programme of events. And once you´re here, you shouldn´t miss the opportunity to stroll down Berlin´s grandest boulevard Unter den Linden, which in the evening has a magic all of its own.

The Wintertraum am Alexa (25 November to 29 December 2013) between Jannowitzbrücke and Alexanderplatz is the biggest and probably the most exciting Christmas market in the city, because as well as the Christmas stalls you`ll also find breath-taking fairground rides. With its Las Vegas style illuminations, this colourful market is an attraction that can be seen from miles away.

Things are slightly less hectic at the Christmas Market outside the Red Town Hall (25 November to 29 December 2013). The big attraction here is the giant Ferris wheel that stands more than 50 metres high. Why not take a ride in one of its closed panorama cabins and watch the hustle and bustle of the market and the ice-rink which circles the famous Neptune Fountain from on high.

Charlottenburg Palace (25 November to 26 December 2013) is also an impressive setting for a Christmas market. The ravishing illuminations on the building and in the park, the historic rides, exquisite handicrafts themed tents and carefully chose programme of events for all the family are particular highlights.

The Christmas Market on Potsdammer Platz (25 November to 26 Decezmber 2013) has a strong
sporting character with activities ranging from tobogganing, curling or ice-skating. The culinary specialities have also been chosen with winter sports in mind - why not spend some time relaxing in an authentic mountain cabin atmosphere or dance the night away at an aprés ski party.

A host of other small Christmas markets, each with there own unique charm, make Berlin an enchanting place at Christmas time. Set in the historic ensemble of an old brewery is the Lucia Christmas Market (25 November to 22 December 2013) which offers a romantic Christmas atmosphere with lovingly decorated stalls and a programme of cultural and musical events. No matter what you choose - what could be lovelier than strolling through a Christmas market in the evening, giving in to the temptation of the culinary delights and getting in the mood for Christmas?

Fall under the spell of Berlin´s diversity in the run-up to Christmas all over again.

Christmas in Berlin

When Berlin is decked out in bright Christmas lights, when the aroma of mulled wine wafts from every street corner and colourful markets invite visitors to take a stroll, it’s obvious: Christmas is coming! We’ll tell you how you can turn the Advent season into truly the most wonderful time of the year!

Over the next few months, our capital will unfold its very own kind charm as the city is transformed into an exciting and colourful setting for Christmas with countless events and special offers. Plunge into the winter wonderland of Berlin and fall under the spell of our selected December highlights:

Winter Show “Berlin Illuminated“
Experience a Berlin winter at its most captivating at the Friedrichstadt Palast! Featuring more than 100 artists, the seasonal show “berlin ERLEUCHTET” on the biggest theatre stage in the world is an unforgettable experience. The heart-warming winter show starts punctually at the same time as the dark winter months – with the premiere on 7th November 2013. Enjoy a magical Berlin, be it with your children, friends or partner! Further information is available here. http://www.show-palace.eu/de/shows/berlin-erleuchtet/

Christmas Markets
Berlin’s Christmas markets are as diverse as the city itself! The Christmas Market on the Gendarmenmarkt or the Nostalgic Christmas Market at the Opernpalais Berlin, both of which are in the city centre, and thus just round the corner from the ARCOTEL Velvet Berlin, will start drawing visitors at the end of November. Our insider‘s tip: the Christmas Shopping Lounge. On 14th and 15th December, young designers and artists will be presenting a colourful mixture of fashion, art and literature! Further information is available here.  

Winter Boat Trip on the Spree
One of the best ways to appreciate Berlin’s Christmas charm is to take a leisurely boat trip along the River Spree. On selected dates the Riedel shipping company offers individual excursions on the Spree complete with a 3-course Christmas meal: Admire Berlin’s most beautiful sights on a three-hour trip as you fall under the spell of the city’s winter landscape! Further information is available here. 


In December Berlin not only boasts countless attractions but also unbeatable offers! With our Christmas in Berlin package nothing can stand in the way of your spending an enjoyable time with your loved ones. You, your friends and family will enjoy an outstanding level of comfort in our Superior rooms. Thanks to its central location in Berlin-Mitte and the excellent transport links, the boutique Hotel ARCOTEL Velvet Berlin is within easy reach of all the main attractions. Extras like a free mug of mulled wine and late check-out on your departure date provide the perfect finishing touch to our special package! Book here online!

Contact:
T +49 30 288 86 578 96
E reservation.velvet@arcotelhotels.com
www.arcotelhotels.com/velvet

ARCOTEL Velvet Berlin | Oranienburger Straße 52 | 10117 Berlin

Yum yum!

Exquisite culinary delicacies, a stylish setting with a relaxing atmosphere and, on top of that, contemporary art works from Berlin: that is the BERLIN_THEKE in Oranienburger Straße! From a vitality breakfast to unusual deserts to irresistible treats like Zucchini-Feta Quiche – there’s something to suit every taste!

“Satisfied guests are at the very top of the menu list for our kitchen and service team,” says operation manager Daniel Reese, so our partner BERLIN_THEKE prepares its regional and international dishes with the utmost care. There are no compromises when it comes to the choice and freshness of the ingredients and dishes are prepared as gently as possible.

You can enjoy a selection of soups, sandwiches, salads and specials that change every day. Our culinary neighbour also impresses guests with a delicious breakfast buffet, which truly leaves nothing to be desired. As well as the delicious aroma of coffee that wafts towards you as soon as you walk through the door, you can also look forward to a range of healthy breads and rolls, as well as lots of cakes and pastries and plenty of hearty savoury dishes. Try one of the delicious vitality spreads or any one of the many varieties of cheeses and hams.

Breakfast: 
Monday – Friday 7.30 a.m. to 10.30 a.m.
Saturday and Sunday 7.30 a.m. to 11.00 a.m. 

Buffet Breakfast for Hotel Guests: 
EUR 17.00 per person incl. juice, mineral water, coffee and tea 

And the very best thing: With its attractive location right next door to the ARCOTEL Velvet Berlin, in the heart of the city’s arts and cultural scene, the BERLIN_THEKE is also an ideal location for art loving guests, who are sure to enjoy browsing through the small but exquisite art shop “kunstundhelden“ on the first floor. Carefully selected works of art, unique pieces, small series and catalogues by contemporary artists are all waiting to be discovered here.

The team from the BERLIN_THEKE is looking forward to seeing you! 

If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact us:

ARCOTEL Velvet Berlin 
Oranienburger Straße 52 | 10117 Berlin
T +49 30 278 753-0
E velvet@arcotelhotels.com
www.arcotelhotels.com/velvet




BERLIN_THEKE | Oranienburger Straße 51 | 10117 Berlin | www.berlin-theke.de 
T +49 163 636 48 68 | E d.reese@berlin-theke.de | http://www.berlin-theke.de

Shopping in the capital!

In August, we treat ourselves to some extra “shopping time”. We simply grab a few friends and then head off to Berlin, as this is where we can really find everything our hearts can possibly desire: from Armani to second-hand, from art to unique souvenirs and even exotic gourmet delicacies from all over the world!

Shopping at KaDeWe is just amazing, as it is highly unlikely that you can ask for anything here and be told that it’s unavailable. The famous “department store of the West” scores with a vast range of luxury goods. In addition to luxurious beauty-rooms and beauty-lounges, Germany’s best-known department store offers a wedding and gift service as well as a hotel and home service! From made-to-measure clothing to hairdressing, from buggy hire to currency exchange, KaDeWe comes top in every respect. Up to 180,000 customers from all over the world can be found milling around the store’s 60,000 m² area very day – where they are served by approximately 2,000 assistants. Customer-focus and an excellent service for each individual are paramount – and this has now been the case for over 100 years. KaDeWe is known internationally as the largest temple to consumerism on the European continent and is mentioned in the same breath as renowned department stores such as “Harrods” in London. http://www.kadewe.de/

When shopping in Berlin, another place that is well worth a visit is “Galeries Lafayette”. This store, covering four storeys, is a showcase for the dazzling world of fashion: apart from the leading international fashion brands, you can also find exciting new designers from Prenzlauer Berg. “Galeries Lafayette” calls itself “the secret French embassy” in Berlin. It ascribes this to the department store’s history: it ventured to Berlin in 1996 and opened its first German branch in Friedrichstraße, at the corner of Französische Straße (French Street) – only a few minutes’ walk from the ARCOTEL John F Berlin. With “Galeries Lafayette” as the anchor tenant, the glass temple designed by France’s leading architect Jean Nouvel was the first real sign of life in the Friedrichstadtpassagen.
http://www.galerieslafayette.de/

Inspired gifts from Berlin!

Anybody who is looking for that really special gift will find precisely the right one with the “BREATH OF BERLIN” series of perfumes. It’s not just the look that’s so appealing but also the bottle: “A fragrance that is as lively and multi-facetted as its city – a city that never stops but is constantly evolving.” And even better, the unusual perfume bottles are real works of art – made from glass! With the Berlin TV Tower, “BREATH OF BERLIN” incorporates THE symbol of the capital, making the perfume a perfect souvenir! You can buy the men’s and women’s fragrances in the TV Tower shop for example.

"BREATH OF BERLIN"

You can also find unusual souvenirs in the Kreuzberg shop “boxoffberlin” - or “bob”, to use the more familiar abbreviated form, close to Checkpoint Charlie. Its unique selling point is that all its products and gift articles are made by Berlin-based designers, producers and artists. Here, you can find fine art, drawings and other original works of art produced by Berlin-based artists as well as postcards, photos and original t-shirts. Its small but excellent book department, which specialises in books about Berlin and street art, is also very impressive. Our favourite souvenir from “bob” is the capital city coffee “Berliner Bohne” and the cookie cutter in the shape of the Brandenburger Tor. (bob – boxoffberlin | Zimmerstraße 11 | 10969 Berlin)

boxoffberlin - Copyright Rudiger Knobloch

The ART-DOMINO® gallery is located close to the Gendarmenmarkt in Berlin, directly opposite our second hotel in Berlin, the ARCOTEL John F Berlin. Inspired by the world’s most beautiful cities, such as the German capital, it produces inimitable series of stylised pictures showing the world’s most famous landmarks and tourist attractions. Each picture is unique and each single image/colour combination is only produced once. The use of small-scale formats results in fantastic individual pieces, which can be individually adjusted, changed or enlarged. A wonderful souvenir of your visit to the capital!

Tips for a romantic time in Berlin –

“Just the two of us”

Our motto for July is “Just the two of us”, and we’d like to pass on a couple of tips on how to discover the romantic face of Berlin.

First of all, take to the water. On a barbecue boat, for example! The round, orange-coloured boats with parasols make a wonderful surprise outing for your loved one on Lake Kremmen, Lake Müggel, or the River Spree. The boat can be transformed into a giant lilo if you want to drift away together. There are also special offers, such as “Couples’ cuddles”, with sparkling wine and strawberries. You can also float on the lake in Berlin's Tiergarten zoo. The Tiergarten’s Neue See, with its many islands, is ideal for couples seeking a secluded nook for a romantic moment or two.

If you prefer solid ground under your feet, you might feel the romantic vibes at the Brandenburg Gate, the starting point for charming horse-drawn carriage rides though Berlin. Looking for something even more romantic? Then the hour-long, night-time tour might appeal. If you’d like to toast each other with champagne on the way round, you can either buy a bottle additionally, or simply book the 90-minute champagne tour. During the drive you get to see and admire many places of interest from the comfort of your carriage.

If two horsepowers aren’t enough, Berlin also has a drive-in cinema. They were all the rage in the 1950s and 1960s, but now they are more for the nostalgically inclined, or hopeless romantics. Make the best of this experience by hiring a soft-top sports car, picking a romantic spot and preparing to enjoy a very special evening.

Of course, for once you could always forget about excursions and simply enjoy the view and the natural surroundings. What about a picnic for two? Teufelsberg, to the west of Berlin, is a very romantic spot. It’s the site of an old listening and flight monitoring station from the Cold War era, which was used by the American forces, but was mothballed in 1999. From the station there’s a wonderful view of Berlin, because the Teufelsberg is the second highest point in the city.

At the end of the day, you relax and make yourselves at home in one of our comfortable hotel rooms. Enjoy the special holiday atmosphere and bring the evening to a romantic close.

T +49 30 288 86 578-96 | F +49 30 288 86 578-87 | E reservation.johnf@arcotelhotels.com

Berlin by Night!

Berlin has some of the most exciting nightlife in the world - because in the German capital, every night is party night! Countless clubs, bars and a host of more unusual locations are fixed venues for the best DJ's in the world. At weekends in particular, Berlin’s party scene entices “young and old” to the city centre, where they turn night into day at one of the many hotspots.

The ARCOTEL Velvet Berlin is not just an ideal base for exploring the world of art, culture & fashion during the day. In the evening, the trendy neighbourhood Berlin-Mitte is great for exciting night-time forays with a high fun factor! If you want to explore “Berlin by Night”, then our new package is just what you are looking for!




Berlin by Night – Party Package with the Following All-Inclusive Offers:
• One night in a Comfort room
• Cocktail of the Month to put you in the mood for the evening in the VELVET LOUNGE
• One bottle of mineral water in your room
• Late check-out up to 3.00  p.m.
• An espresso in the VELVET LOUNGE the next morning
• Magazine berlin030 in your room with insiders tips about Berlin’s nightlife
• VELVET KIT including a city map of Berlin


And the best thing! Our offer is available starting from EUR 79.00! For enquiries, simply contact our Reservations Team or book your next weekend in Berlin here.

Contact:
E reservation.velvet@arcotelhotels.com |  T +49 30 278 753-0 | F +49 30 278 753-800 www.arcotelhotels.com/Velvet

ARCOTEL Velvet Berlin
Oranienburger Straße 52
10117 Berlin

Journey of discovery in the "Kennedy Room"

When you stay with us in the ARCOTEL John F Berlin, you almost feel as if you have crossed the Atlantic - and yet we’re in the heart of Berlin! The hotel is the ideal point of departure for a trip to America, not just because of the name, but also, and above all, because of the direct link to the former US President John F Kennedy. The living history in and around Berlin and the transatlantic German-American friendship has barely been summed up as concisely by anyone than by “JFK“, in his speech in front of the West Berlin City Hall in 1963. And nowhere is the legend of the former US head of state captured in such a cosy yet detailed manner than in our unique theme room, the “Kennedy Room”. 

Right down to the smallest detail, this room reflects the lifestyle of that era and the Oval Office in the White House. For example, the “Kennedy Room” includes an extravagant bed modelled on the First Lady’s bedroom, with light-blue material draped on the headboard. Your eye is also drawn to the special curtains in the same light-blue colour, as well as to the famous flagstaffs, just like the originals in the Oval Office. The bathroom is equipped with original American bath fittings too, and expresses its own rather unique charm. It is said that Kennedy had back problems, and therefore he loved to relax in a rocking chair. Drawing on this, architect, artist and industrial designer Harald Schreiber, who is responsible for the interior design of the hotel, dedicated the rocking chair in the theme room to John F Kennedy.

But it’s not just the “Kennedy Room“ where everything revolves around JFK: we honour the 35th US President with the design of the entire hotel! So in the lobby, for example, and in all other rooms you will find the legendary rocking chairs of the ARCOTEL John F Berlin. You will also see a US motto: “E pluribus unum” – a Latin phrase that roughly translates as “One out of many”. Equally unique are the delicate lamps on the bed headboards, in the bar and in the restaurant, which are modelled on a dress of the First Lady Jackie Kennedy and reflect her elegance. In the entrance area, guests are welcomed by an custom-made chandelier, which is a replica of the one in the White House.

Interested in all these exclusive design features? Then drop by and discover the many other unique details, and transport yourself to the White House in the ARCOTEL John F Berlin! Click here for our current offer: “I am a Berliner”.

For further information please contact:
T +49 30 288 86 578-96 | F +49 30 288 86 578-87 |
E reservation.johnf@arcotelhotels.com

Sales, Sales, Sales!  

Nowadays, almost no company can do without a strong sales team, no matter what business they’re in. Especially in the hotel industry, sales staff are an important part of the team and at the ARCOTEL Velvet Berlin and ARCOTEL John F Berlin we wouldn’t want to do without them. So we have taken the opportunity to ask some questions and look at the job in a little more detail for you!

Our Berlin hotels currently have two sales representatives. Their duties are very broad ranging and in particular include providing direct assistance to customers and partners. Tours of the hotel, visiting customers and telephone sales are just part of their everyday business. But in everything they do, the focus is always on our product: presenting our hotels in detail, getting people interested in booking them and, on occasion, negotiating!
As most of our sales team‘s work involves direct contact with a wide range of customers, strong communication skills are one of the most important requirements for the job: “Every day we are in contact with so many customers and members of staff that of course it is an advantage if you are articulate and empathetic by nature,!” says Victoria Stahlhut, Sales Representative at the ARCOTEL John F Berlin who also emphasises that: “It goes without saying that good manners are also absolutely essential in this profession.” 

Representing the hotels externally is also another key aspect of the team’s work. Sales staff show the customer the added value and the advantages of our “product”: “A good salesperson is not just a skilled negotiator! It’s far more important that they really believe in the product!”, says Linda Gronert, the Sales Representative at the ARCOTEL John F Berlin, who has been working in the Sales department for more than two years. “Our hotels don’t just score points with first-class comfort and an ideal location in the centre of Berlin. They also have a unique design concept that instantly makes an impression. Guests who stay with us are looking for something outside the mainstream!” Gronert continues. 

Sandy Fischer, Rooms Division Manager

Sandy Fischer, Rooms Division Manager at the ARCOTEL Velvet Berlin tells us even more about the job: “ARCOTEL group sales offensives and regular sales meetings give members of staff from all destinations in Germany, Austria and Croatia opportunities to share their experiences and develop joint strategies for customer acquisition and retention. This enables them to stay abreast of the constant changes in the industry and learn something new themselves every day!”

ARCOTEL Hotels are always on the lookout for enthusiastic employees – so don’t hesitate, click here and apply!