Lifestyle briefs

Oct 27, 2011, 3:06 GMT

Czech Republic's 'Concrete' cocktail turning out to be a hit

Prague (dpa) - The makers of the Becherovka, the herbal bitters made in the Czech Republic, have launched a new promotion for an old cocktail, Beton.

Beton is Czech for concrete and is made by mixing Becherovka and tonic water (BEcherovka + TONic). Beton has a 44-year history in the Czech Republic where its marketing slogan calls it 'The most famous Czech cocktail'.

The drink is now enjoying wider appreciation abroad. One of the countries where it's being promoted right now is Germany where it recently featured in a popular film.

Parisian sewing cafe takes off

Paris (dpa) - If you're tired of hanging out in cafes, and you've got a sense of style, then try out a new concept from Paris: the sewing cafe.

Two women from Switzerland and Austria opened a sewing cafe in Paris' 10th Arrondissement last year based on the idea of an internet cafe and a place to make clothes.

Ten work areas, each equipped with a sewing machine, are placed around a central table and can be rented for eight dollars an hour. Professional designers provide regular workshops to improve skills and techniques.

There's also coffee and cake as well as a comfortable couch. Since opening, the idea has crossed the English Channel to London where 'Sweat Shop' founders Martena Duss and Sissi Holleis presented their concept in the department store Selfridges in September.

Celebrating at the top of Bremen's tallest landmark

Bremen, Germany (dpa) - One of northern Germany's landmarks, the Fallturm in Bremen, has reopened to the public after a 10 year hiatus.

The Fallturm is a drop tower at the Centre of Applied Space Technology and Microgravity used to conduct experiments on gravity. The 130-metre-high tower was closed due to fire prevention regulations.

'You can enjoy a great panoramic view,' says Sabine Vogelsang from the centre. The tower is open to anyone wanting to celebrate a party, wedding or birthday. However, due to security considerations guests cannot consume more than one or two beers or a glass of wine.