Where my journey began...

My love for travel started when I was just 19. I left Germany for my first job abroad in London — a bold step that turned into two incredible years in Bermuda, followed by a life-changing role aboard the Royal Viking Line cruise ship. Each new place gave me a deeper love for connection, culture, and the joy of sharing stories.

Eventually, I returned to Germany… but not for long. In 1989, a new adventure called — Australia.

With my partner and our 2½-year-old son, we arrived in Sydney full of hope. The road wasn’t always smooth. Adjusting to the Australian baking scene as a European pastry chef came with its challenges. I was searching not just for work — but for purpose.

A holiday to Queensland changed everything. Within weeks, we moved north and took the biggest leap of all: opening our own bakery in Brisbane.

The Birth of King of Cakes.

With no business plan and barely any funding, we opened our first store in Taringa. But we had passion — and that’s what mattered.

That small bakery became King of Cakes: a much-loved local brand bringing the magic of traditional European baking to Brisbane. Over three decades, we grew to multiple locations, crafted wedding cakes, celebrated milestones, and helped shape the city’s cultural flavour.

From QANTAS’s 75th anniversary to Oktoberfest celebrations, we shared joy through pastry, music, and community spirit.

A New Chapter: The Jolly German.

In 2022, I sold King of Cakes and returned to Germany to support my parents, reflect, and rediscover what I wanted next.

What came to me was clear: I didn’t just want to bake. I wanted to connect. I wanted to tell stories. I wanted to bring people closer to the real heart of Bavaria.

And so, The Jolly German was born.

Tour de Bavaria: A Journey with Heart

Today, I host small, VIP-style guided tours through Bavaria. Tour de Bavaria is not your typical trip. It’s deeply personal. A celebration of food, culture, music, and surprise moments you can’t find on a brochure.

We visit hidden gems, meet local legends, toast with schnapps, and share stories — all through the eyes of someone who truly lives the culture.

I don’t do big buses.

I do big laughs, real people, and unforgettable memories.