Autumn also brings new faces to our team: four of our 20 trainees come from Vietnam. A total of six trainees have found their way to us from abroad, including an Egyptian and an Indonesian. Our Managing Director Christian Ottenbacher sees the future of the industry in this diversity, as qualified specialists are not easy to find in the hospitality industry. That's why we are proud to train young talent from all over the world.

Thi My Hanh Hoang is 23 years young, comes from Vietnam and came to Germany for her training. She has been training as a restaurant specialist at the Hotel Adler Asperg since August 2023.

What made you decide to come to Germany and start training as a restaurant specialist?

I came to Germany because I really like working in the catering industry. Apprenticeships in the hotel and restaurant sector are not very popular in Vietnam and I had heard that the vocational training in Germany was very good. That's why I decided to train as a restaurant specialist here.

What appeals to you most about training as a restaurant specialist and which tasks do you enjoy the most? Which of our restaurants is your favourite place to work?

What particularly appeals to me about training as a restaurant specialist is the opportunity to improve my communication skills. Working in a restaurant allows me to socialise with people from different cultures - both colleagues and guests.

What I enjoy most is setting and decorating the tables. I love the creativity and perfection involved in decorating the event rooms - without any stress. My favourite place to work is the Aguila. I feel at home here and know my way around.

What do you particularly like about working at the Adler Asperg? Do you notice any differences to the restaurants and guests in Vietnam?

I appreciate the friendly support of my boss and my colleagues at Adler Asperg. They always help me with my work. Compared to Vietnam, where the restaurants are often very lively and street food is very popular, I find the atmosphere in restaurants in Germany rather quiet and relaxed.

How do you like the vocational school here in Germany? Are there any differences to the education system in Vietnam?

I like the vocational school in Germany because working in groups is very effective. We can help each other with the tasks and improve our communication. Unlike in Germany, the education system in Vietnam teaches more theory, whereas here there is a stronger focus on practice.

What were the biggest challenges for you when you came to Germany - professionally or personally?

The biggest challenge when I came to Germany was getting used to a completely new environment and culture. Above all, the weather and the time difference were unfamiliar. The most difficult thing, however, was the language. Although it was a big challenge at first, communication improves with every experience here at Adler Asperg.

What do you like to do in your free time? Do you have any hobbies that help you feel at home in Germany?

In my free time, I like to listen to music, cook and enjoy the beautiful landscape here. As I miss my family and the specialities in Vietnam the most, I like to cook Vietnamese specialities with my friends.

What would you like to achieve professionally in the future? Do you have plans to stay in Germany after your apprenticeship?

I hope that I can develop professionally in my speciality in the future. After my apprenticeship, I would like to stay in Germany, as I see many opportunities for personal and professional development here.