Berlin According To… Susan Wendt, Managing Director, Sales, TrustNordisk 

What’s the one thing the new Berlinale director or the new EFM director should change?

Blue sky, no wind, rain or snow. If that’s not a possibility, then turn on the hot water tap in the GB [Gropius Bau, where the market is held] restrooms.

What’s the one thing they should definitely keep as it is?

Market and festival together focusing on onsite and with online only as a small add-on.

What’s your favorite, only-in-Berlin moment from festivals/markets past?

Having been in Berlin for (too) many years, it is probably the feeling of coming home, being recognized and greeted at the hotel, certain restaurants etc.

What’s your favorite celebrity or industry encounter in Berlin?

Well, there are many, but most recently, Teo Yoo (Past Lives), came to our TrustNordisk party. Such a pleasant and warm guy. We had a really nice and easy talk that came so naturally and that impressed me.

What’s something every visitor to Berlin should see?

For visitors, in general, there is of course lots of history in Berlin including the Exhibition and remains of The Wall next to the GB and the list of interesting museums is longer than long.

Apart from that to stroll around in arts districts like Hackische Höfe…

For industry people to go to Berlin during Spring/Summer/Autumn and stroll around and experience the places you do during the Festival.. it is a totally different experience.

Strategy for staying warm in chilly Berlin?

Basically, nothing special as the weather is rather similar to Copenhagen. But if cold during the day A Gammel Dansk will for sure give you the inner warmth.

Strategy for avoiding the dreaded “festival flu”?

One Gammel Dansk a day keeps the ‘festival flu’ away.

Favorite Berlin restaurant or bar? 

I should probably say a healthy vegan restaurant. But sorry, I have to say Bistro Royal which is also one of the places, where I do feel at home – love seeing the people working there year after year. 

Place to avoid during the festival/market?

KitKat — once you get in, it’s hard to get out … or is it the opposite?

Top piece of advice for Berlinale newbies?

Practice a few German sentences to get along.

Vielen dank

Ich habe Hunger 

Zwei Bier bitte