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‘Scentsational’ Cologne
This robust, forward-thinking city exudes the sweet smell of success.
The business community in Cologne, aka Köln, defies quick classification. If you were to read only the first page of the city’s economic report, you might come away thinking, “Detroit with schnitzel.”The automotive industry does indeed dominate, but the city boasts fantastic economic depth and diversity. With 1 million inhabitants, Cologne is Germany’s fourth largest city. Situated at the intersection of the Rhine river and a major trade route between Eastern and Western Europe, the city has been a player in the game of world commerce since Roman times. Several of Germany’s largest retail and insurance companies operate out of Cologne. Additionally, the German television networks RTL, WDR, ProSeiben and VOX are either based in or keep major branches in Cologne.
Though less commercially important these days, one of Cologne’s claims to fame is Eau de Cologne (Water of Cologne). Originally developed by Giovanni Maria Farina in 1709 as a citrusy, all-purpose cosmetic scent, Eau de Cologne enjoyed increasing popularity into the 1800s — Napolean was among its primary boosters. Eau de Cologne’s prominence eventually resulted in its name’s becoming the generic term for all men’s perfume. Yet the original Eau de Cologne is still being produced at what is now the world’s oldest fragrance company, overseen by the eighth generation of the Farina family in partnership with Procter & Gamble.
These days, Cologne’s undeniable focus is automobile manufacturing. When Nikolaus August Otto invented the four-stroke motor here in 1876, he unwittingly helped to pave the way for Cologne’s eventual automotive-construction boom. Henry Ford started the trend by proclaiming the city to be the most attractive overseas location for his plant. Cologne is now the seat of Ford Europe. Moreover, a 2000 poll revealed that Cologne boasted 22 car manufacturers — including Citroën, Mazda, Toyota and Volvo — with a total of 28,000 employees and a collective annual revenue of $7.7 billion. Not surprisingly, a strong ancillary machine-building industry has emerged, with names like Deutz, Alfred Schütte and Linde among the 143 businesses that collectively employ 19,000 and bring in a yearly revenue of $3.8 billion (2001). In short, the city is thriving, and its forward thinking means even better times are yet to come.
Cologne’s tourist offerings remain relatively humble, with the obvious exception of the massive spires and staggering size of Cologne Cathedral, which miraculously survived World War II bombing. Cologne also has several notable museums devoted to the arts, Roman artifacts and — it’s true — chocolate. Kölsch, a pale-top fermented beer that can be legally brewed only in and around Cologne, is a local obsession. It’s on offer at all bars, restaurants and traditional pubs, known locally as kneipes, where it’s only sort of jokingly suggested that ordering anything else is a faux pas punishable by instant ostracism. The height of the city’s social calendar is Carnival, an Oktoberfest-caliber event complete with goofy costumes and a river of kölsch. Carnival opens in November and builds to the “Three Mad Days” weekend, which generally falls in the last week of February.
LODGING
INTERCONTINENTAL COLOGNE
Built on historic Roman grounds (with the relics to prove it), this recently opened InterContinental business hotel offers service and amenities that flirt with luxury classification. Guests have access to the wellness wonderland of the neighboring Holmes Place Health Club, as well as two swish restaurants and a New York–style bar. Convenient to the shopping district, it offers views of the cathedral from most of its rooms. $$$-$$$$
INTERCONTINENTAL COLOGNE
Pipinstrasse 1
tel 49 221 280 60, fax 49 221 280 61111
www.cologne.intercontinental.com
CROWNE PLAZA COLOGNE CITY CENTRE
Crowne Plaza is located in the true center of Cologne, within easy distance of notable restaurants, nightlife and shopping. Rooms are especially bright due to configurations allowing for long windows, with large workspaces. There is a small fitness facility and pool as well as a three-meal restaurant serving buffet or à la carte. $$$
CROWNE PLAZA COLOGNE CITY CENTRE
Habsburgerring 9-13
tel 49 221 2280, fax 49 221 251206
http://cologne-citycentre.crowneplaza.com
