Issue link: http://read.uberflip.com/i/1077081
55 JAN-FEB 2019 MEETINGS & CONVENTIONS MCMAG-ASIA.COM the fans were invited on a tour to the Noevir Stadium Kobe, where Podolski's Vissel Kobe was slated to play. They were allowed to visit restricted areas that were otherwise out of bound to normal visitors, and even got a chance to take a group picture with Podolski on the pitch. Perhaps even more exciting is the fact that the picture ended up on numerous German newspapers, as well as Podolski's Instagram account. All things Japanese Besides meeting Podolski, the participants also had a chance to tour some of Japan's most iconic landmarks, including a trip to Meiji Shrine and Asakusa Shrine. And no trip to Japan can be concluded without a taste of its delicacies. Instead of bringing the clients to run-of-the-mill restaurants, teamtravel international took them to 'yokocho', or Tokyo's narrow alleyways frequented by locals, for an authentic food and beverage experience. When the group was in Kobe, they even had Japanese barbecue up in Mount Rokko with a commanding view of the city. No easy task Organising a trip for 12 people may sound relatively straightforward as compared to groups of bigger sizes. Yuji Andreas Wendler, managing director of teamtravel international, on the other hand, begs to differ, "Japan always presents a unique challenge, considering the rules and regulations. However, we managed to 'stretch' those rules, and we achieved the best result a meeting planner can possibly ask for." For example, when the clients visited bars in the yokocho, the regular opening hours had to be extended after negotiations with the bar owners. Also, tours around the Noevir Stadium Kobe, let alone a trip down to the pitch, are strictly forbidden. However, thanks to Podolski's status in the football club and the tireless effort from the teamtravel international planners, the clients were able to have an unforgettable time. The feedback was overwhelmingly positive. The 12 participants reportedly became close friends — and the trip didn't end in Japan, either. Later in 2018, the 12 participants reunited once more at the Lukas Podolski Lounge to catch a 1.FC Köln match in Germany. The bond between the participants is testament to teamtravel international's dedication to providing a quality time for groups big and small alike . "Japan always presents a unique presents a unique challenge, considering challenge, considering the rules and regulations. However, we managed to 'stretch' those rules, and we achieved the best result a meeting planner can possibly hope for." YUJI ANDREAS WENDLER, MANAGING DIRECTOR, TEAMTRAVEL INTERNATIONAL GMBH GMBH A sake brewery tour.