Austria to hold world's first divorce fair

VIENNA (Reuters Life!) - Austria will host what organizers call the world's first "divorce fair" later this month, aimed at helping couples part ways with a minimum of torment.

The fair, titled "New Beginning," hopes to tap into the market of those wanting or having to separate and will provide them with a chance to speak to lawyers, mediators, private detectives, real estate firms and travel agencies.

"If you manage to separate amicably, your divorce day could also be the best day of your life," the fair's organizer, Anton Barz, who also holds wedding fairs, told Reuters.

The fair will also advise parents on how to inflict as little pain as possible on their children when untying the knot, and give those still believing in true love the opportunity to enlist the help of a dating agency to find a new partner.

Barz said he already had inquiries from Germany, Britain, the United States and even Australia to hold similar events.

Yet in organizing the fair, 37-year old Barz could actually not draw on his own personal experiences.

"I am happily married," said Barz, laughing.

The fair will be held in Vienna on October 27-28 and in the central Austrian city of Linz three weeks later.