Issue link: http://www.wacmagazine.com/i/160497
Union inteRnational ClUB Reciprocal Club Union International Club By Michelle Van Slack, Director Member Services Dining with diplomats Mix and mingle with the international elite in Frankfurt L Michelle Van Slack is Director Member Services. Send her feedback on your reciprocal club visits at mvanslack@wac.net. ocated in the heart of the diplomatic district, just minutes from downtown Frankfurt, Germany, is the tranquil oasis of the Union International Club. The villa was built in 1927, and was used by the U.S. Army as officer quarters during World War II. In 1953, the villa was sold to the city of Frankfurt with the intention of becoming a center of international understanding. As a result, the Union International Club was founded in 1956, and it has been promoting international relations since. The grounds are especially lively during the warmer months— and September is no exception. The club's heated outdoor swimming pool and tennis courts entice the active, while the children's pool offers fun for the whole family. The spacious outdoor terrace is a wonderful place to enjoy the surroundings over a business lunch, or simply kick back on Sunday afternoon. Another must-see is Villa Merton restaurant, which combines sustainable ingredients to create regional dishes with global influence. According to head chef Matthias Schmidt, every dish has a story to tell. Schmidt's dishes must be amazing storytellers as they've earned the restaurant a two-star Michelin rating. While you are dining, be sure to pay attention to the people around you. The club has a total membership of 600, but it is a highbrow crowd. All of the diplomatic consults residing in Frankfurt are members, as are the board members of the European Central Bank. This comes as no surprise as Frankfurt is one of the world's leading financial centers. Whether your visit revolves around finance or family, the Union International Club provides the perfect backdrop for an intercultural experience. Union International Club Am Leonhardsbrunn 12 D-60487 Frankfurt am Main Germany Phone: +49.0.69.70.30.31 Union-club.com/en Access » The club is in the heart of the diplomatic district, a 10-minute walk to the city center and the old Frankfurt opera house. Frankfurt's airport, Frankfurt am Main, is 25 minutes by taxi or 45 minutes by train. Dress coDe » Refrain from wearing your shorts as the dress code is business casual throughout the club. Guest rooms » Six well-appointed, smoke-free, single or double rooms are available. Prices are very reasonable, with singles starting at €87 at press time. Activities » Frankfurt's Palmengarten (palm garden) is a plant lover's paradise, with a diversity of thematic gardens and greenhouses within walking distance of the club. DiD you know? » Due to its central location in Germany, Frankfurt has one of the world's busiest international airports and one of Europe's largest train stations. For reciprocal letters of introduction or more information, call Member Services at 206.464.3068 or email membership@wac.net. 8 | Washington Athletic Club Magazine | SePteMBeR 2013