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Ideoli’s co-founders George and Chris spend a great deal of their time travelling the globe. It’s something they enjoy immensely. And why not? It’s the perfect way to see the world, connect with partners while overseeing production runs and client installations—and get inspired and invigorated by the country and the people around them. Situated mostly on the right bank of the Rhine River, Düsseldorf is the capital of the state of North Rhine-Westphalia and is one of the busiest metropolitan cities in Germany. Originally established in 1135, the city has gone through many renaissances. Although many of the city’s oldest buildings were destroyed during WWII bombings, the city and its people persevered and many new structures were built. Today, Düsseldorf is a prosperous metropolis, with its avant-garde architecture, thriving shopping districts, myriad museums and theaters, and flourishing bar, pub and restaurant scene. Königsallee (Kö for short) is one of the city’s most elegant and well-known streets lined with shops that range from the world’s top designers to eclectic boutiques to cozy street cafes. Other notable landmarks include Lambertus Church, with its crooked tower; Jägerhof and Benrath Castles; and Feldhofer Cave, where remains of Neanderthal man were discovered in 1856. Düsseldorf’s Old Town is referred to as “the longest bar in the world,” since there is no shortage of rustic pubs that offer Alt Beer, the local top-fermented beer specialty. Throughout the year, the city hosts numerous festivals held along the Rhine, including a celebration of Japanese culture, a fair in July and the famous Christmas market during Advent season. For Ideoli’s globe-trotting co-founders, spending time in Düsseldorf is an excellent way to get invigorated by Germany’s cultural cuisine. George and Chris believe a visit to the city is not complete without experiencing these five favorites:  1. Wurst With more than 1500 types of Wurst (or sausage) made in Germany, you may never have the same type twice. Sold at street stalls throughout the city, the most popular kinds of Wurst are Bratwurst, fried sausage made of ground pork and spices; Wiener (Viennese), which is smoked and then boiled; and Blutwurst and Schwarzwurst, which are blood sausages. 2. Himmel un aad In English, the name of this traditional dish—blood sausage, onions and apple-mashed potatoes—means heaven and earth. Most agree it’s aptly named. 3. Sauerbraten A well-known and popular dish that’s regarded as one of the country’s national dishes, Sauerbraten features picked roast beef and stewed apples. Its distinct flavor is a result of days-long marinating in vinegar and other spices. 4. Halver Hahn A simple, yet delicious dish that consists of dark rye bread, cheese and mustard. The English translation of the meal’s name, “one half of a cock,” may make you blush—or smirk! 5. Alt Beer This is the drink that Düsseldorf is known for and why the Old Town is referred to as “the longest bar in the world.” Step into any pub and bar throughout the city for a taste of this signature brew, a dark beer with a pleasant, mellow flavor. Cofounders George and Chris agree that visiting Düsseldorf, Germany, and getting invigorated by its food and drink is the perfect way to build upon the key relationships they have with Ideoli’s partners and clients.

For Ideoli co-founders George and Chris, traveling the world is one of the most exciting parts of their roles. As they roam from city to city, and country to country, establishing connections with partners while overseeing production runs and client installations, they can’t help but get invigorated by the people they meet and the cultures they get to explore.  A recent stop for them was Jakarta, Indonesia, and it proved to be one of the favorite places they’ve visited to date. Located on the Northwest coast of Java Island, Jakarta got independence from the Dutch East India Company in 1945. Formerly known as Batavia or Djakarta, today it is Indonesia’s capital and its largest city with a population of more than 23 million people. It is the world’s largest Muslim country. A thriving metropolis that is a leader in trade, finance and education, the city is also a popular spot for Asian sports, hosting the 1962 Asian Games and the 2007 Asian Cup. Although the city is hot and humid—Its year-round climate ranges between 75F and 93F—the sea winds offer a welcome respite from the heat. Jakarta seamlessly balances western architecture and traditional Indonesian cultures, often called Betawi cultures. Among the long-standing customs you’ll find in the city are the Betawi language, which is a creole language that combines many languages; Tanjidor, which are traditional music groups; Gambang Kromong, a traditional musical art; and various dance/drama/performing art forms such as Yapong, Betawi Mask Dance, Sirih Kuning Dance, Ondel-ondel and others. You’ll find many Kebaya, Joglo and Gudang homes, all traditional-style Betawi houses. Of course, Jakarta’s food is one of its most treasured traditions. Its cuisine is influenced by China, India and European countries, and Ideoli cofounders found themselves getting invigorated by the city’s unique cultural cuisine. Here is their list of the top 5 things to eat and drink in Jakarta: 1. Bakso This savory meatball soup is a very popular dish. Usually made with beef meatballs, noodles and vegetables; chicken or fish meatballs are also available options. You’ll find this throughout the city, at street vendors, local restaurants and five-star hotels. 2. Bubur Ayam (Chicken Congee) A traditional meal to start your day, this breakfast rice congee is served with shredded chicken and condiments such as soy sauce, fried shallots, beans and crackers. 3. Sate Padang A popular choice for a late-night snack or supper, this is a classic dish that has long been enjoyed by the people of Jakarta as well as all of Indonesia. Usually a beef-based dish, it can also be made of chicken or lamb. The meat is first boiled with herbs and spices then diced and skewered for grilling. The left over stock is the secret ingredient that makes Sate Padang’s dipping gravy so delicious. 4. Nasi Tupeng An impressive dish meant to be shared, Nasi Tupeng is officially recognized as Indonesia’s national dish and one that is enjoyed at special events and occasions. Yellow uduk rice is shaped into a cone and surrounded by a variety of colorful side dishes. 5. Bir Pletok Although its name makes you think ‘beer,’ this traditional Betawi drink, which is made from ginger, lemongrass, cardamom, cinnamon, sappan wood and sugar, is totally nonalcoholic. It is a drink reserved for special occasions, often served at weddings and funerals. As they continue to visit cities and countries around the globe, George and Chris are continually inspired and invigorated by the people they meet and the unique cuisines and cultures they get to discover. Connecting with Ideoli’s partners and clients offers them unlimited opportunities to strengthen and build relationships.

Throughout the month, our employees are traveling back and forth from places all over the world. While Ideoli is working hard, we’re also making it a point to try and see all that we can. This includes indulging in some culture, and that means trying all types of new foods!  Here’s our top 5 things to eat and drink in Beijing, China:  1. Tanghulu (Toffee Apple) Be prepared for lots and lots of sugar in this Chinese version of a toffee apple. You’ll find them at street vendors around Houhai and throughout the city. Just be warned that although the sugar coating makes the apples look nice and shiny, the fruit inside may not be as fresh as you hope! 2. Egg Tarts Popular in Hong Kong, egg tarts have now become quite common in Beijing. The smooth and crispy pastries can be found in many local restaurants as well in convenience stores where you can pick up preheated tarts for breakfast on-the-go. 3. Hot Pot Head to a hotpot restaurant with friends and you get the best of both worlds: you’re served all the ingredients but you get to cook your own meal. A pot of broth is brought to your table and you order any combination of meats, vegetables and sauces. Once the broth boils, you ‘cook’ the ingredients. At some venues, you are able to create your own bowl of dipping sauce. 4. Gangou Potatoes A popular meal in the colder months, this literally means ‘dry pot potato slices.’ The dish features slices of potato, crispy pork and chilies that are served in a hot pot that sits on an open flame. Underneath the meat and potatoes is a delicious layer of sliced, caramelized onions-the perfect ending to a perfect meal. 5. Tea For more than one thousand years, tea has been a mainstay of Chinese culture. Throughout Beijing, you’ll find tea houses where you can sample a variety of teas—from green to black to red to flower—and you’ll have the opportunity to socialize with friends, relax and experience a true taste of Chinese culture.  For co-founders George and Chris, visiting Beijing, China, and getting invigorated by its food and drink is the perfect way to build upon the key relationships they have with Ideoli partners and clients.