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Zeppelin
Airship Bodensee, making daily flight from Berlin to Friedrichschafen, Oct. 1919
Fakuma is one of the most enjoyable trade shows in the plastics calendar - not least because of its unconventional location.
Friedrichshafen, with a population of 59,000 (compare it to Düsseldorf's 600,000) doesn't seem like a natural fit for its numerous trade events showcasing the cutting edge of industry.
And yet, somehow the combination of a day in the halls followed by an evening on the shores of the Bodensee, or taking in the sights of historic Friedrichshafen seems to work. Seasoned friends of Fakuma, the EPPM team have compiled the following list of five essential ways to relax in your spare time (if you have any - it's a big show).
1 - The Zeppelin Museum
Probably the most famous thing about this quiet German town is that it served as the base for the famous airship. The Zeppelin - a feat of engineering for its time - came to prominence during the early 20th Century, being used for leisure, tourism, and military applications. The museum is only open till 5pm, so it might be worth trying to swap shifts with a colleague if you can, and take a couple of hours to look around - there's a full-size replica of The Hindenburg which is a must-see.
2 - The Dornier Museum
Another one for aviation fans - last one, we promise! Profiling the work of Claudius Dornier, a designer and builder of early aircraft, including the Dornier Do X - a flying boat!
3 - Zeppelin Flight
Okay, we lied. This one's a bit special - and it's not the cheapest, so don't try and put it on the company card! But if you have the luxury of a 'free day' before or after the show, it's worth looking into this. Offering a series of routes around the skies of Friedrichshafen and the surrounding area, you'll get incredible views and the chance to experience a turn-of-the-century zeitgeist as it was intended.
4 - Constance
Some readers may be staying in Constance anyway - hotels around the show notoriously book up a year in advance, leaving many to find a room in Constance across the lake, and take the boat or catamaran to the town. Wherever you're based, the views as you cross the lake are fantastic, and when you get to the other side you can walk through the Old Town or enjoy the metropolitan area, with big brand shopping and great food.
5 - Eat!
If, like us, you're visiting from outside Germany, as always we say make the most of the opportunity to have some great (and much-needed) meals. Restaurant Maier in Friedrichshafen offers fantastic cuisine, locally-sourced food, cooked in the local way. And if you do head to Constance, you'll probably find the EPPM team in their favourite old haunt - Heuboden. An old barn-turned-steakhouse, this place does great steak, and great cocktails for those last night celebrations!