When I decided to start an apprenticeship as a restaurant specialist at the Hotel Barbarahof 3 years ago, I knew immediately – this is my dream job! I was still a bit shy, but that all went away with time!

I felt at home straight away and the nice bosses and my new colleagues made it easier for me to start my career. As my aunt owns a ski lodge and I have already had the opportunity to work as a holiday intern in various hotels in Hinterglemm, I was able to gain my first “gastronomy experience” there and knew roughly what to expect! I have experienced and learned a lot in all 3 years, and I would like to thank my bosses once again! 😉

Roland in particular always put a lot of effort into his weekly learning sessions. I was able to consolidate what I had learned and learn a lot of new things!

Last summer, I worked through all the stations in the hotel with Sophie and our two interns. We wanted to see how much work it is to keep the whole hotel on its toes! For me personally, it was also important to be able to work in the individual areas in order to be prepared for different situations in my later professional life! In June 2013, Roland’s friend, who also runs a hotel in Grossarl, gave me the opportunity to spend a few days at the 4*s Hotel Grossarlerhof! There was a wedding with a good 150 guests that very weekend and there was a lot to do! However, I enjoyed the evening in the hotel bar the most, where I got good tips from a good bartender.

In those 3 years I also found my love for sport and I got my first jersey from TEAM BARBARAHOF! Since then, I’ve been more and more motivated every year and in summer 2014 I took part in my first race with my brother! As it was the World Games in the valley, it was like a home race for us and I even managed to finish 6th in my age group!

Last fall, I came a big step closer to my dream when Roland and Katrin gave me the first part of the bartender’s diploma for my 18th birthday. I got to know the basic things behind the bar and was of course able to use one or two tricks at our hotel bar. I will catch up on the two outstanding courses for the bartender diploma as soon as possible! Of course, I will be happy to welcome you with a good cocktail (or two) in our Bergfeuer Lounge!

My next big hurdle will be the final apprenticeship exam on July 22! I will use what I have learned over the past 3 years and do my best!

I found a good preparation for this on 26.6.2015 at the state cup for apprentices in Salzburg, where I got one of the 14 starting places! I was even happier when I even won the silver medal!

From the beginning of October I unfortunately have to give up my job at the hotel for 6 months, as I have to do my compulsory basic military service for the Austrian army! I will of course do my best during the winter months and try to be on duty at the hotel at weekends to see old faces again!

Until then, have a great time, all the best and see you soon

Your Daniel

P.S.: I might gain some experience abroad, but then I will certainly return to my old place of work.