A Canadian Perspective on The Festival Series: Franke’s Hospitality Transforms Poker Tournaments
Rafael, a seasoned poker player from Canada, recently had the opportunity to participate in the Malta stop of The Festival Series, which is of course, organized by good friend Martin 'Franke' von Zweigbergk. Having experienced The Irish Open annually, Rafael was eager but unsure of what to expect in Malta. What he found was more than just a poker tournament; it was a well-rounded experience combining friendship, international networking, and the kind of hospitality that only Franke could provide.
Malta: More Than Just Poker
Arriving in Malta, Rafael immediately noticed a stark difference from his usual poker destinations. The beautiful weather, stunning ocean views, and vibrant island culture were both inviting and distracting. Unlike the rainy, cosy atmosphere at The Irish Open that keeps players inside and focused on the game, Malta offers a breath of fresh air, encouraging participants to explore and socialize beyond the poker tables.
“It was a different type of poker trip,” Rafael shares. “Typically, I’m in one place, playing cards day and night. But in Malta, there was so much more to experience.” From excursions to sightseeing, Franke’s team organized a balanced mix of poker games and activities, making the trip appealing not only to poker enthusiasts but also to their families and friends who wanted to join.
Hospitality at Its Best: A Brewery Tour Highlight
One standout experience for Rafael and his fellow Canadians was a visit to a local brewery called Farsons Brewery Malta, expertly organized by Franke’s team. “It was just the right number of people, and the tour was exactly what we needed – informative but not too lengthy. And of course, we got to sample all the great beers,” Rafael says with a smile. The tour, split into two groups led by Franke and Rafael, was an example of how much interest there was in this 'tea tour'!
“Franke even joked about his ‘investment’ in the brewery from drinking so much over the years,” Rafael recalls. “It was one of those moments that made the experience truly special.”
This brewery tour has been following Raphael, along with other excursions and events, embodied Franke’s grassroots approach – creating an atmosphere where everyone feels welcomed and connected, regardless of their background or nationality.
>> More information about the Brewery Tour in Malta
Building a Unique Mid-Level Tournament Experience
What truly sets Franke’s poker festivals apart is his ability to reinvent the mid-level poker tournament, blending competitive poker with a relaxing, vacation-like experience. Rafael explains that this is especially appealing for players like him, who aren’t professionals but love the game and the community that comes with it.
The hospitality packages offered are an integral part of Franke’s unique approach. “It’s something you just don’t see anywhere else,” Rafael points out. With these additions, Franke caters not only to poker players but also to their travel companions, making it a full-fledged holiday experience that suits all involved.
“The greatest compliment you can get is when people try to imitate you,” Rafael says. And it’s true – other poker events are beginning to take notice of Franke’s approach. But as Rafael insists, “There’s only one Franke. You can try to mimic it, but it’s the people and the relationships that Franke has built over the years that make this festival series so special.”
Franke’s Impact on Mixed Games and Canadian Poker
An essential element of the festival series is the popularity of mixed games, which Franke has embraced wholeheartedly. His enthusiasm for less common games, such as the Sviten Special and H.O.R.S.E.S, has introduced countless players to the diversity of poker. Now, what began as niche events have sparked international interest, with mixed games becoming more popular among poker enthusiasts.
Rafael believes this unique focus on mixed games is positioning Franke and The Festival Series as leaders in the field. “I think Franke hit the nail on the head at the right time. When people talk about mixed games now, they talk about The Festival Series.”
The success of the Malta stop has inspired Canadians like Rafael and his friend Tim Tillman to spread the word back home. In poker games and tournaments across Canada, the conversation often turns to the Malta experience and The Festival Series, with Rafael enthusiastically recounting the festival’s atmosphere, the people, and the friendships that came from it.
Rafael also imagines that one day, The Festival Series may make its way to Canada. “Franke in Canada would be an event unlike any other,” he laughs, adding, “Who knows, maybe we’d be wrestling bears or racing snowshoes – anything is possible with Franke!”
The Festival Series Legacy: More Than Just a Game
In Rafael’s eyes, Franke has become an integral part of the brand, though Franke might shy away from the spotlight. His approach and dedication to creating a genuinely enjoyable experience resonate deeply with players, especially those who value poker as more than just a competitive game.
The hospitality, the diverse activities, and the friendships make each festival a unique experience. Rafael believes that with Franke’s growing success, he may eventually need a larger team to help maintain the personal touch that has defined The Festival Series so far.
“For us, this was more than just a tournament. It was an unforgettable experience with people we now consider friends,” Rafael shares. “Franke has built something grassroots, something real, and that’s why it’s growing.”
A Final Toast to Franke and the Future of Poker Festivals
For Rafael and the Canadians who joined him in Malta, The Festival was a testament to the power of friendship, community, and the love of poker. As the festival series continues to expand, it’s clear that Franke’s approach – combining competition, hospitality, and heart – is resonating with players worldwide.
“Here’s to Franke,” Rafael concludes. “Here’s to more The Festivals, more laughter, and more memories with friends. It’s a beautiful thing.”
