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Tired Teddies Take Bavarian Break

DW staff (dc)August 4, 2005

Everyone needs a vacation from time to time, so why should your loyal bedtime companion -- teddy bear or otherwise -- be any different? Exactly, thought one German couple, who have started a unique business.

This bear looks like he could use a vacationImage: AP

Teddy bears are hard workers. Whatever you're going through -- illness, exams, unrequited love -- your teddy is always there, ready for a cuddle. Their quiet stoicism deserves a reward, say German entrepreneurs Christopher Böhm and Elke Verheugen. And they've got just the thing -- a nice, relaxing vacation in the Bavarian capital, Munich.

Teddy bears go through a lotImage: BilderBox

"Often, bears or other stuffed toys have gone through a lot," Böhm said. "They've been squashed, their ears have been chewed, or they've got a small tear along a seam. A vacation is a great opportunity for those button-eyes to see something different for a change."

For a fee, Böhm and Verheugen will host your favorite toy in their Munich apartment for a week. And there's no need to worry about Teddy's wellbeing during his stay.

Action-packed trip

The couple have worked out an action-packed itinerary that includes sightseeing, game evenings, a visit to a beer garden, and a mini language course to become acquainted with the local lingo.

Bavarian premier Edmund Stoiber's bear wouldn't have far to travelImage: AP

Other activities are chosen according to the bear's personality, and include things such as fishing, golfing, painting, or for the more adventurous type, bungee jumping and paragliding.

A photo album documenting your bear's vacation is included in the price, which ranges from 99 euros ($122) for bears from Germany, to 149 euros for toys travelling from overseas.

Böhm says Teddy-in-Munich's main clientele are women between the ages of 30 and 60. And business seems to be booming -- around every four weeks, the couple hosts a tour group of between eight to 12 toys.

"The people like this crazy business," Böhm said.

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