Get to Know Showaround Locals in Essen: Meet Anne

Background: Anne is a Showaround local based in Essen, Germany. As a student juggling work, study, family and friends, she also manages to find the time to explore the world. Anne is an avid traveller who enjoys waterskiing, dancing and spending time in nature. Always staying positive and keeping busy is her way of life.

Showaround: Why did you decide to become a Showaround Local?
Anne: I've been travelling a lot, and each time I'm so amazed and overwhelmed with how friendly and warmhearted locals in other countries are. So I want to try to give it back to the people who want to get to know the city I live in. I love to help others, and I think being a Showaround local is the best way to do that.

I've been travelling a lot, and each time I'm so amazed and overwhelmed with how friendly and warmhearted locals in other countries are.

Showaround: Favourite restaurant?
Anne: A restaurant called Mongo's. It is a chain of Asian restaurants, where you can choose vegetables, meat and add a variety of different sauces. They prepare it freshly for you while you are having a drink. Words cannot describe how delicious the food is! The restaurant is located just a few steps away from Limbecker Platz/Berliner Platz.

Showaround: Best place for a drink?
Anne: Daktari Bar, which is a scenic bar close to the main train station (HBF). It offers the best atmosphere together with fabulous cocktails. However, it's not that easy to get in because Daktari Bar is relatively small, and you cannot make a reservation. That's why sometimes you have to wait in line for 30 minutes before they open. But it’s totally worth it!

Showaround: What would a perfect day in Essen be like for you?
Anne: Firstly, I would have breakfast in Seitenblick, then go for a walk and explore “RÜ”, which is the heart of Essen. Afterwards, I would visit several hotspots like Zollverein, Baldeneysee and Gruga Park, and do a little bit of shopping in Limbecker Platz. Also, it's worth visiting ThyssenKrupp Headquarters and watching the sunset from the rooftop of our university. I would finish off the day with a lovely meal at Mongo's and cocktails at Daktari. Coming in September? Check out our Oktoberfest!

Showaround: How would your friends describe you?
Anne: My friends say that I’m sociable, adventurous, and a truly dedicated person.

Showaround: How do you spend your free time?
Anne: When I am not at work or university, I try to spend as much time with my family and friends as I can. I love to go out and do something, whether it's shopping, dancing, exploring the city or nature. I’ve always been very social and active, so instead of staying at home, I prefer keeping myself busy.

Showaround: How would you describe the local people of Essen?
Anne: One thing is for sure, the people in Essen are very hospitable. Also, the locals are very warm and open-minded. They have a good sense of humour too - constantly cracking jokes!

Showaround: Thank you Anne for your answers!