Saxony is a federal state with a rich cultural heritage. The many-faceted and fascinating history of its handicrafts industry is key to its reputation as an attractive cultural destination. Many of the handicraft skills practised in Saxony today originated here. It boasts records such as the world’s largest nutcracker, the oldest registered trademark and the largest functioning violin. These traditional and rare skills, handed down over generations of artisan production, can be witnessed throughout Saxony. Almost everywhere, visitors can watch master craftsmen at work.
Myanmar is presenting itself as an up-and-coming destination at ITB Berlin. Formerly Burma and ruled by a military dictatorship for decades, the country is advertising with its culture, its beaches and the "50 shades of green" campaign.
ITB Berlin 2017 coincides with an important political anniversary for Malaysia: the south east Asian country obtained its independence 60 years ago. To honour this occasion in a suitable fashion not only the Director of the Tourism Promotion Board, Datuk Seri Mirza Mohammad Taiyab, but also the Minister for Tourism and Culture, Dato Seri Mohamed Nazri Abdul Aziz, are attending ITB Berlin.
It is Europe’s third largest open air opera festival, after Verona and Bregenz. The Opera in the Quarry is an attraction for opera stars, leading musicians and enthusiastic audiences alike. The St. Margarethen quarry in Burgenland, 65 km south east of Vienna in the UNESCO world heritage region of Neusiedlersee, has acquired quite a reputation as a meeting place for international opera enthusiasts.