Explore Munich with Kempinski's E.R.A.s Programme

A handcrafted oak desk greets guests in the lobby of Hotel Vier Jahreszeiten, symbolizing the luxury hotel’s dedication to local culture. Launched in September 2023, the E.R.A.s programme—Expert Recommended Activities—connects visitors with Munich's cultural fabric through local curators. Petra Dambon, General Manager, described E.R.A.s as engaging guests beyond typical tourist paths.

Guests can explore Munich through curated itineraries, from historical walking tours led by historians to cooking classes with local chefs. "We are facilitating meaningful interactions that allow our guests to feel the pulse of the city," Dambon remarked. Each curator offers unique expertise, ensuring a variety of experiences that resonate with guests.

The hotel emphasizes sustainability and community, collaborating with local businesses to enrich guest experiences and support the local economy. A recent partnership with a local brewery offered guests a private tour and tasting session, highlighting Bavarian beer-making traditions.

With its blend of traditional decor and modern amenities, the hotel reflects a narrative the E.R.A.s programme aims to enhance. Guests can enjoy cocktails made from local ingredients at the Jahreszeiten Bar, where head bartender Peter Schmitz shares the stories behind each drink.

Art tours through Munich’s galleries, often led by local artists like curator Sophie Laier, allow guests to explore the city’s contemporary art scene. Laier guides visitors through these spaces, explaining the significance of various works and providing insights into the local artistic community.

According to a 2022 report by the International Luxury Hotel Association, 72% of luxury travellers seek local experiences reflecting their destination's culture. Kempinski positions the Hotel Vier Jahreszeiten as a leader in guest engagement, showing that hotels can serve as platforms for cultural exchange.

The hotel offers 297 rooms and suites with views of Munich’s historic centre. Rates start at €500 (approximately $530) per night for a Deluxe Double Room, reflecting the added value of direct cultural connections through E.R.A.s. Guests can book experiences individually or tailor comprehensive itineraries.

Innovations like E.R.A.s represent a shift in hospitality, where hotels become dynamic hubs of local culture. "We aim to transition from being a luxury destination to a platform for cultural discovery," Dambon stated.

The success of E.R.A.s has sparked discussions about expanding similar initiatives across other Kempinski properties. Each hotel, with its unique cultural identity, holds potential for immersive programmes. The hope is for guests to leave with richer stories and deeper connections to the cities they visit, aligning with the desire for meaningful travel experiences.

As experiential travel evolves, Kempinski’s E.R.A.s initiative stands as a testament to the changing landscape of luxury hospitality, challenging norms and redefining hosting. The question remains whether other luxury brands will adopt similar programmes, potentially shaping the future of luxury hotel experiences.