Thriving in Hanover: Your Ultimate Guide to Health, Wellness & a Fulfilling Lifestyle
- Find a Hausarzt: Register with a general practitioner early. This simplifies future specialist visits and establishes your medical history within the local system. Ask for recommendations in expat groups or check online directories.
- Emergency Numbers: Familiarize yourself with emergency contact numbers: 112 for medical emergencies and 116117 for non-life-threatening medical care outside of regular doctor's hours.
- Pharmacy Access: Note that pharmacies also have an "emergency rotation" for after-hours needs, which is usually posted on the door of any given pharmacy.
- English-Speaking Doctors: Don't hesitate to ask when booking an appointment if the doctor or staff speak English. Many do. Websites like the U.S. Embassy in Germany also provide lists of English-speaking doctors.
- Telemedicine Options: Explore telemedicine services for minor ailments or initial consultations, which can save time and offer convenience for busy remote workers.
- Mental Health Support: Germany places a growing emphasis on mental health. Many therapists and psychologists offer services in English. Your GP can provide referrals, or you can search through professional associations for listings. Mental health for remote workers is a topic we frequently discuss. --- ## 2. Embracing Green Spaces and Outdoor Activities Hanover prides itself on being one of Germany's greenest cities, a true urban oasis that provides abundant opportunities for outdoor recreation and relaxation. The city's commitment to nature makes it an ideal location for anyone looking to incorporate physical activity and mindful breaks into their remote work schedule. The Eilenriede, often referred to as Hanover's "green lung," is a vast urban forest larger than New York's Central Park. It acts as a natural playground for joggers, cyclists, walkers, and anyone seeking a moment of tranquility amidst nature. Its extensive network of paths and trails makes it perfect for a morning run before work or a refreshing afternoon stroll. For those interested in sustainable living, Eilenriede symbolizes Hanover's dedication to environmental preservation. Beyond Eilenriede, the world-renowned Herrenhäuser Gärten (Royal Gardens of Herrenhausen) offer a breathtaking of baroque gardens, a grotto designed by Niki de Saint Phalle, and a significant botanical collection. While not primarily a fitness spot, it's an incredible place for leisurely walks, picnics, and cultural immersion, promoting mental well-being through beauty and history. The Maschsee, a large artificial lake south of the city center, is another gem for recreation. It's a hub for sailing, rowing, paddle-boarding, and swimming during warmer months. The 6.2 km (3.8 miles) path around the Maschsee is immensely popular with runners and walkers, providing scenic views and a refreshing breeze. Many cafes and restaurants line its shores, making it a perfect spot for a post-activity meal or a relaxed evening out. ### Actionable Advice for Outdoor Enjoyment: * Eilenriede Exploration: Dedicate time each week to discover different parts of Eilenriede. You can rent a bike from one of the city's many rental services (e.g., nextbike) and explore its numerous trails.
- Maschsee Activities: Join a rowing or sailing club if you're keen on watersports. Many clubs offer introductory courses. Alternatively, simply enjoy a walk or cycle around the lake. Look out for the annual Maschsee Lake Festival, a major summer event.
- Tiergarten: Visit the Tiergarten (animal park) in Kirchrode, a beautiful forest park home to nearly 100 wild deer, perfect for wildlife spotting and quiet walks.
- Geocaching: Hanover's green spaces are popular spots for geocaching, a fun way to explore new areas and get some exercise.
- Community Gardens: Investigate local community gardens (Kleingärten) if you’re interested in urban gardening. It’s a great way to meet locals and enjoy fresh produce. This fosters a sense of community and belonging, which is essential for digital nomads.
- Biking City: Hanover is incredibly bicycle-friendly. Invest in a good bicycle or use rental services. Cycle paths are extensive, making it easy to commute, explore, and stay fit simultaneously. Consider guided bike tours to discover hidden gems. --- ## 3. Fitness and Sports: Staying Active in Hanover Maintaining a fitness routine is key for remote workers, who often spend long hours seated. Hanover provides a diverse range of options for physical activity, catering to all interests and fitness levels. Beyond its expansive green spaces, the city boasts a thriving network of gyms, sports clubs, and specialized studios. You'll find everything from large, chain fitness centers equipped with state-of-the-art machines and group classes to boutique studios offering yoga, Pilates, spinning, and martial arts. Many gyms offer flexible membership options, which can be particularly appealing for nomads who might not commit to long-term contracts. Look for gyms offering day passes or monthly memberships without lengthy commitments. For those who prefer team sports or a more social approach to fitness, Hanover has numerous sports clubs (Sportvereine) for football (soccer), handball, volleyball, basketball, and more. Joining a local club is an excellent way to meet people, practice your German, and immerse yourself in local culture. Swimming enthusiasts will appreciate the city's public swimming pools, including indoor and outdoor options. Several pools also offer sauna facilities, perfect for post-workout relaxation. Running clubs are plentiful, often meeting at either Eilenriede or Maschsee. For a more unique experience, consider bouldering or indoor climbing, which have gained popularity in recent years, with several modern facilities available. ### Your Fitness Action Plan: * Gym Memberships: Research local gyms like Fitness First, FitX, or regional chains. Check for trial periods or short-term memberships. Many offer English-speaking trainers. Consider the location relative to your co-working space in Hanover or home.
- Yoga and Pilates: Explore studios like "Yogazentrum-Hanover" or "Pilates Connection" for diverse class schedules and styles. Many offer introductory packages. This is a great way to focus on mindfulness and well-being.
- Sports Clubs: Look up local sports clubs in Hanover (e.g., through the city's official website or expat forums). Don't be shy about reaching out to inquire about joining as a foreigner. This is a fantastic way to build your social network.
- Public Pools: Visit the Bäderbetriebe Hannover website for a list of public pools, opening times, and facilities. Some have dedicated lanes for serious swimmers.
- Outdoor Bootcamps: During warmer months, keep an eye out for outdoor fitness bootcamps or running groups in the parks. These are often advertised locally or on social media.
- Bouldering/Climbing: Try out climbing halls such as "Griffreich" or "Kletterhalle Hanover" for a fun and challenging full-body workout.
- Personal Trainers: If you need individualized guidance, many personal trainers in Hanover are fluent in English and can create custom fitness plans. --- ## 4. Healthy Eating: From Markets to Restaurants A healthy lifestyle in Hanover extends to your plate. The city offers a fantastic selection of options for healthy eating, whether you prefer cooking at home with fresh, local ingredients or dining out at restaurants prioritizing nutritional food. Hanover's weekly markets are a highlight for food enthusiasts. The Markthalle (Market Hall) in the city center is a must-visit, offering a vibrant atmosphere with stalls selling fresh produce, regional specialties, international foods, and deli items. It’s an ideal spot for lunch or to pick up ingredients for a healthy meal. Beyond the Markthalle, smaller weekly outdoor markets can be found in various neighborhoods, providing direct access to local farmers and seasonal produce. This is perfect for those who appreciate local culture and gastronomy. Supermarkets like Edeka, Rewe, and Netto offer a good range of organic (Bio) products, clearly labeled. Hanover also has dedicated organic supermarkets like Basic AG and Denn's Biomarkt, which provide an even wider selection of organic, vegetarian, and vegan products, catering to specific dietary needs. When it comes to dining out, Hanover's culinary scene has seen a significant shift towards health-conscious options. You'll find an increasing number of restaurants offering vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and farm-to-table menus. From cozy cafes serving nutritious breakfasts to elegant restaurants focusing on fresh, seasonal ingredients, there's something for every palate and preference. Don't forget to explore the city's multicultural dining scene, which brings diverse healthy options from around the world. ### Culinary Explorer's Guide: * Explore Markthalle: Make regular visits to Hanover's Markthalle for fresh produce, cheeses, baked goods, and prepared foods. It’s a great place to sample local delicacies.
- Farmers Markets: Seek out smaller neighborhood markets. These are often excellent for discovering local, seasonal produce directly from farmers, fostering a connection with the local community.
- Organic Supermarkets: Familiarize yourself with Basic AG and Denn's Biomarkt for specialty organic and health foods not always available in conventional supermarkets.
- Restaurant Research: Use apps like HappyCow for vegan/vegetarian options or Yelp/TripAdvisor to find restaurants with specific healthy offerings. Look for keywords like "Bio," "regional," "saisonal," "vegan," or "vegetarisch." Places like Café Glocksee or Lieblingsbar often have good healthy options.
- Cooking Classes: Consider taking a German cooking class to learn more about regional healthy cuisine and meet fellow foodies.
- CSA Programs: Look into Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) programs, where you can subscribe to receive a weekly box of fresh, seasonal produce directly from a local farm. This is a great example of embracing local culture.
- Dietary Needs: Don't hesitate to communicate your dietary needs in restaurants. Germans are generally accommodating, and awareness of allergies and preferences is growing. Learn basic German phrases for common dietary restrictions. --- ## 5. Mental Well-being and Mindfulness Practices In the demanding world of remote work, mental well-being is as crucial as physical health. Hanover provides numerous avenues for fostering mindfulness, reducing stress, and enhancing mental clarity. The city's abundance of green spaces, as mentioned earlier, offers natural sanctuaries for quiet reflection and meditation. Simply spending time in Eilenriede or walking along the Maschsee can be incredibly therapeutic. Beyond nature, Hanover has a growing community dedicated to various mindfulness practices. Yoga and meditation studios are prevalent, offering classes for all levels, from beginner to advanced. Many studios provide classes in English, or at least instructors who can adapt their teaching for English speakers. From Hatha and Vinyasa to restorative yoga and guided meditation, you'll find a practice that resonates with you. Retreats and workshops focusing on stress reduction, resilience, and personal growth are also available, often integrating practices like mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR). Furthermore, Hanover’s cultural institutions, like its museums and art galleries, can serve as wonderful spaces for mental stimulation and quiet contemplation, providing a much-needed break from screen time. Regularly engaging with the arts can be a powerful tool for emotional regulation and creative inspiration, aspects crucial for maintaining productivity. ### Cultivating Inner Peace in Hanover: * Yoga & Meditation Studios: Explore studios such as "Yogazentrum-Hanover", "Yoga & More", or "Vimana Yoga" for their schedules and offerings. Many offer introductory deals for new students.
- Nature Walks: Schedule regular walks in Eilenriede, Herrenhäuser Gärten, or around Maschsee. Use these times for mindful observation and deep breathing. Leave your phone behind to disconnect fully.
- Mindfulness Apps: Complement your in-person practices with apps like Headspace or Calm, which offer guided meditations and mindfulness exercises that can be done anywhere, anytime.
- Tai Chi & Qigong: Look for local groups practicing these ancient arts in parks or community centers. They are excellent for gentle movement, balance, and mental focus.
- Art and Culture: Visit the Sprengel Museum Hannover for modern art, the Landesmuseum Hannover for natural and cultural history, or one of the city's many smaller galleries. Art appreciation can be a potent form of mindfulness.
- Libraries and Bookstores: Spend time in Hanover's libraries (e.g., Stadtbibliothek Hannover) or independent bookstores. Reading for pleasure is a fantastic way to de-stress and broaden your horizons.
- Therapy & Counseling: If you require professional support, remember that therapists and counselors are available, and many are English-speaking. Don't hesitate to seek help if needed. Resources for expat mental health are also available. --- ## 6. Social Connection and Community Building While remote work offers incredible flexibility, it can sometimes lead to feelings of isolation. Building a strong social network and finding a sense of community is vital for a healthy and fulfilling life as a digital nomad in Hanover. Fortunately, Hanover is a welcoming city with many opportunities to connect with like-minded individuals, both locals and other expats. Expat and international groups are a great starting point. Websites like Meetup.com often list groups for various interests, from language exchange meetups to hiking clubs and board game nights. Facebook groups for "Expats in Hanover" or "Digital Nomads Hanover" are excellent resources for asking questions, finding events, and meeting new people. These networks are invaluable for tips on settling into a new city. Beyond expat bubbles, immersing yourself in local activities is key to building deeper connections. Join a sports club, take a language course (e.g., at the Goethe-Institut or Volkshochschule), volunteer for a local cause, or attend city events. Hanover has a vibrant cultural calendar, including festivals, concerts, and public gatherings throughout the year, providing natural opportunities for interaction. Pubs (Kneipen) and cafes are central to German social life and can be great places to strike up conversations. Co-working spaces also offer built-in communities for remote workers, fostering professional connections and often organizing social events. These spaces are often reviewed in guides like our Hanover co-working article. ### Connecting with Hanover: * Expat Groups: Join "Hannover International" or "Expats in Hannover" groups on social media platforms. Attend their social gatherings.
- Meetup.com: Browse Meetup for groups related to your hobbies – photography, hiking, board games, language exchange, startups, and more.
- Language Courses: Enroll in a German language course. It's not only essential for daily life but also a fantastic way to meet new people in a structured environment.
- Sports Clubs (Vereine): Becoming a member of a local sports club (e.g., football, tennis, hiking) immediately integrates you into a local community.
- Volunteer Work: Find a local charity or organization to volunteer with. It’s a rewarding way to contribute to the community and meet altruistic individuals.
- Cultural Events: Check the city's official website or local event listings for festivals, concerts, and public events. The "Schützenfest" or "Frühlingsfest" are great examples of large public gatherings.
- Co-working Spaces: Work from a co-working space occasionally to meet other remote professionals. Many have communal areas and organize networking events.
- Coffee Shops & Bars: Regular visits to your favorite local cafes or pubs can lead to friendly interactions with baristas, owners, and other regulars.
- Hobby Classes: Take a cooking class, art workshop, or dance class. These are natural settings for meeting people with shared interests. Learning new skills is always a plus. --- ## 7. The Advantage of Work-Life Balance in Hanover Hanover consistently ranks well in quality of life surveys, and a significant contributing factor is its excellent work-life balance. For digital nomads, this means more than just flexible work hours; it means living in a city that inherently supports a healthy integration of professional and personal life. The German work culture, while productive, generally respects boundaries between work and leisure. Working late nights or weekends is often the exception rather than the norm, leading to a more relaxed pace of life. This cultural norm is incredibly beneficial for remote workers looking to avoid burnout and maintain their well-being. The city’s efficient public transport system and compact size also contribute positively to work-life balance, minimizing commute times and freeing up more hours for personal pursuits. This makes it a great city compared to, say, Berlin where commutes can be longer. Furthermore, Hanover's abundant recreational opportunities are not just for weekends. Its parks, lakes, and cultural sites are easily accessible for a mid-week break, a lunchtime walk, or a post-work activity. The city’s emphasis on green infrastructure means you're never far from a natural escape, promoting mental rejuvenation. With its family-friendly atmosphere and focus on community, Hanover encourages spending quality time outside of work. Many cafes and restaurants close earlier than in some other European cities, subtlely encouraging people to enjoy their evenings and weekends rather than constantly seeking late-night entertainment. This leads to a more rested and present population, including its remote workforce. Understanding German culture will further enhance this experience. ### Maximizing Your Work-Life Balance: * Set Boundaries: Even as a remote worker, establish clear start and end times for your workday. Resist the urge to constantly be online.
- Utilize Public Holidays: Germany has numerous public holidays (Feiertage), offering additional long weekends for travel or relaxation. Plan accordingly.
- Explore During the Week: Take advantage of Hanover's accessible attractions during off-peak hours. A museum visit or a long walk in a park mid-week can be incredibly refreshing.
- Lunch Breaks: Don’t eat at your desk. Use your lunch break to step outside, get some fresh air, or meet a friend.
- Minimize Commute: Choose accommodation close to green spaces, cafes, or your preferred amenities to reduce travel time, even if it's just a walk to your local cafe co-working spot.
- Hobbies: Dedicate specific time slots in your week to hobbies or activities outside of work. Join a book club, an art class, or a sports league.
- Disconnect: Practice digital detoxes, especially on weekends. Turn off work notifications and engage with the world around you.
- Vacation Culture: Embrace the German tradition of taking sufficient vacation time. Plan regular breaks to explore other parts of Germany or Europe. Consider a trip to Hamburg for a refreshing change. --- ## 8. Learning & Personal Growth Opportunities For digital nomads, personal and professional development doesn't stop when the workday ends. Hanover offers a wealth of opportunities for continuous learning and personal growth, enhancing your overall well-being and enriching your remote experience. The city is home to several reputable educational institutions, including the Leibniz University Hannover, which often hosts public lectures, workshops, and cultural events open to the wider community. These can be fantastic opportunities to expand your knowledge in various fields, from science and technology to arts and humanities. Language learning is perhaps one of the most accessible and rewarding avenues for personal growth in Hanover. Beyond formal German language schools like the Goethe-Institut or Volkshochschule (VHS), you'll find numerous private tutors and language exchange partners. Mastering German not only opens doors to deeper cultural immersion but also boosts your confidence and practical capabilities. The VHS, in particular, offers an incredibly diverse catalog of courses beyond language, including arts and crafts, photography, cooking, computer skills, and more – often at affordable prices. This is an excellent way to pick up a new hobby, meet locals, and stimulate your brain. Additionally, many co-working spaces and professional networks in Hanover host workshops, seminars, and networking events focused on skill development, entrepreneurship, and industry trends, which are crucial for career development in a remote role. ### Fueling Your Growth in Hanover: * Language Classes: Enroll in a German language course at VHS (Volkshochschule), Goethe-Institut, or a private school. Even basic German will significantly improve your daily life.
- University Events: Check the event calendars of Leibniz University Hannover and Hannover Medical School for public lectures, seminars, and cultural events.
- VHS Courses: Explore the extensive course catalog of the Volkshochschule Hannover (VHS). You might discover a passion for pottery, photography, or coding.
- Online Learning: Combine local activities with online platforms like Coursera or edX for professional development. Hanover's strong internet infrastructure supports this. Find out more about internet abroad.
- Skill-Sharing Meetups: Look for local meetups or workshops focusing on skills relevant to your profession or personal interests, such as coding meetups, creative writing groups, or marketing seminars.
- Cultural Workshops: Participate in workshops related to German culture, such as traditional craft classes or regional cooking.
- Libraries: Utilize the city libraries for resources on various subjects, free access to publications, and often host cultural events or readings.
- Mentorship: Seek out opportunities for mentorship, either formalized through professional organizations or informally through networking events.
- Personal Coaching: Consider a personal coach for life skills, career planning, or wellness if you feel stuck or need specific guidance. Many offer services in English. --- ## 9. Relaxation & Self-Care: Unwinding in Hanover After a productive work week, knowing how to truly relax and recharge is paramount for long-term well-being. Hanover offers a variety of self-care options, allowing you to unwind and rejuvenate. The city is home to several excellent spas and wellness centers, where you can indulge in massages, facials, and other therapeutic treatments. Many public swimming pools also feature sauna and steam bath areas (Saunalandschaft), which are incredibly popular in Germany for their health benefits and relaxing atmosphere. Experiencing a traditional German sauna is a must, but remember that many are textile-free! For a more serene escape, consider a trip to one of the region's thermal baths or health resorts. While a short drive from the city, places like the Bad Nenndorf Landgrafentherme offer mineral-rich waters and extensive spa facilities that provide a perfect day trip for deep relaxation. Within the city, simply finding a quiet café to read, enjoying a leisurely meal, or visiting a tranquil corner of Herrenhäuser Gärten can serve as powerful self-care moments. Don't underestimate the power of disconnecting from screens and engaging in simple, restorative activities. This is particularly important for remote workers who might otherwise spend excessive time online. The various theaters and cinemas around the city also provide an opportunity for cultural self-care, allowing you to escape into a story or performance. ### Your Self-Care Blueprint: * Spa Days: Treat yourself to a day at a local spa such as "Aspria Hannover" or "Vabali Spa Düsseldorf" (a bit further afield but highly recommended for a full day trip).
- Sauna Culture: Embrace the German sauna culture. Most local public pools, like the "Stadionbad" or "Kleefelder Bad," have excellent sauna areas. Research local etiquette beforehand (often textile-free).
- Thermal Baths: Plan a weekend trip to a nearby thermal bath for a truly immersive relaxation experience.
- Café Culture: Discover your favorite cozy cafe in areas like the Nordstadt or Linden and make it a ritual to enjoy a coffee and a book. Consider Mezzo or Kaffeehaus for a relaxed vibe.
- Reading Nooks: Find a comfortable spot in one of Hanover's beautiful parks or libraries for quiet reading time.
- Meditation & Yoga: Continue to attend yoga or meditation classes to calm your mind and release physical tension.
- Creative Outlets: Engage in hobbies that allow for creative expression – drawing, painting, writing, playing music. These are wonderful forms of active self-care.
- Digital Detox: Schedule regular periods of disconnecting from all digital devices. Use this time for walks, engaging with loved ones, or simply enjoying silence.
- Massage Therapy: Explore local massage therapists for therapeutic or relaxation massages. Many offer various techniques from traditional Swedish to sports massages. --- ## 10. Digital Nomad Infrastructure and Support Beyond wellness initiatives, a city's fundamental infrastructure for remote workers is paramount. Hanover excels in providing the necessary tools and environment for productive work. The city boasts reliable and fast internet connectivity, which is a non-negotiable for any digital professional. Fiber optic networks are increasingly common, ensuring video calls, large file transfers, and cloud-based work. Public Wi-Fi is available in many city centers, cafes, and libraries, though a private connection is always recommended for security and stability needs – learn more about internet abroad. Hanover also has a growing number of co-working spaces, offering flexible desks, private offices, and communal areas. These spaces are not just about a desk; they provide a professional environment, networking opportunities, and a sense of community that can combat the isolation of working from home. Examples include Hafven (a well-known creative hub and co-working space), Coworking-Space Hannover, and several others catering to different needs and budgets. These hubs often host workshops, networking events, and social gatherings, making them invaluable for professional growth and social integration. Additionally, the city offers good public transport with trams, buses, and S-Bahn connections, making it easy to navigate between your accommodation, co-working space, and leisure activities, reducing commuting stress. The availability of resources for starting a business as a nomad is also a strong point in Germany. ### Essential Nomad Infrastructure: * Internet Connectivity: Ensure your accommodation has a strong, reliable internet connection. Research local providers like Deutsche Telekom, Vodafone, or 1&1 for home internet plans.
- Co-working Spaces: Explore Hafven, Coworking-Space Hannover, or other local options. Many offer free trial days or flexible memberships. Check out our Hanover co-working guide.
- Cafes with Wi-Fi: Identify cafes that are comfortable for working, offer good Wi-Fi, and have power outlets. Places like Coffee-Friends or Extrablatt often work well.
- Public Transport: Get familiar with Hanover's public transport network (GVH). A monthly pass can be cost-effective for regular commuting and exploration.
- Banking: Open a local German bank account for easier management of expenses and payments, or use a challenger bank that supports international transfers. Financial planning for nomads is key.
- Postal Services: Understand how to send and receive mail and packages. Deutsche Post and DHL are the primary services.
- Local Sim Card: Get a local German SIM card for reliable mobile data and calls. Providers like Telekom, Vodafone, and O2 offer various prepaid and contract options.
- Legal & Visa Support: Familiarize yourself with local immigration and legal requirements. If needed, seek advice from immigration lawyers or expat service centers for visa and residency questions regarding visas for nomads. Germany has specific rules for self-employed individuals.
- Local Resources: Tap into city resources like the "Welcome Center e.V. Hanover Region" which offers support for international residents.
- Networking Events: Actively seek out and attend industry-specific networking events or meetups. These are crucial for professional development and can provide access to local business insights. There are often events in cities like Munich or Frankfurt which are easily accessible by train. --- ## Conclusion: Your Flourishing Life in Hanover Hanover might not always be the first city that comes to mind when envisioning a digital nomad destination, but as this guide illustrates, it offers an exceptionally high quality of life, particularly for those who prioritize health, wellness, and a balanced lifestyle. From its world-class healthcare system and an abundance of invigorating green spaces to its vibrant fitness scene, diverse healthy eating options, and thriving cultural, Hanover provides a nurturing environment for remote professionals. The city's commitment to work-life balance, coupled with numerous opportunities for personal growth and digital nomad infrastructure, makes it a hidden gem for sustainable living and productive work. By embracing Hanover's offerings, you can build a life that seamlessly integrates your professional ambitions with your personal well-being. Whether it's finding your favorite spot in Eilenriede for a daily run, joining a local sports club to connect with residents, exploring the freshest produce at the Markthalle, or dedicating time to mindfulness in a quiet study, Hanover empowers you to craft a fulfilling existence. The city truly encourages a vibrant, healthy, and connected presence. It encourages you not just to work remotely, but to live fully. So, pack your bags with confidence, knowing that Hanover is ready to support your towards a flourishing, healthy, and happy remote work life. Embrace the opportunity to experience a German city that genuinely cares for its inhabitants and offers all the tools you need to thrive both professionally and personally. Your ultimate well-being guide to Hanover is just the beginning of your adventure; the rest is yours to explore and enjoy. Refer back to our main city guides for more inspiring locations.