May 2011 took Kiran and me to Switzerland coupled with a glimpse of Italy.
We chose Switzerland because of its natural beauty and also with a few to do the non conventional ALP Switzerland. The country has much more to offer than just snow mountains and breath taking views.
Italy (Lake Como) was an irresistible choice because of the proximity to Southern Switzerland
My first impression of the country – it was diverse and beautiful, Switzerland has something for every traveller. A Must see on the voyager’s list, it changes from green to greener to greenest in the most serene ways. Our first encounter was actually with Bellagio in Italy wherein the lake breeze shook us before we entered a very warm and friendly Italian culture
Switzerland is all about feeling free. Within the multi-cultural population, in the air, in pursuit of interests, in variety, there is a smell of freedom within.
The mixture of a German, French, Romensch and Italian makes Switzerland a melting pot of various cultures and actually extracts the best out of them. Wherein we felt that Lugano was in Italy, Geneva seemed completely French.
Italy – Bellagio was the place wherein the people aspect struck us most. From the receptionist to the cook, to the shopkeepers, everyone was extremely warm.
Swiss Fondue peppered with wine is delectable. Really delicious and we had it in the perfect setting of a Swiss Chalet in Cold Interlaken. Top it up with an ice-cream and it is the perfect recipe
The weather was cold throughout between 6-18 degrees. We caught Jungfrau at -1 degrees which actually fell to -8 the next day. The cold winds made for a perfect mixture of snow sights melted into the greens of the mountains
The city walks of Berne and the panoramic view of the city add the best flavour to the Switzerland trip. The Bears of Berne have a heritage and a great story to tell. The UNESCO World Heritage site is a must in any trip to Switzerland
Went to Ascona and Locarno from Lugano, again less visited locations but really beautiful. They resemble the villages of Italy through their beautiful architecture, lakeside walks and adorable city centers
Visited Lake Brienz which would rank amongst the best lakes ever seen, It is actuallt the stillness of the lake which makes it absorb a really captivating blue colour which is unforgettable.
The mosy important tip for the trip : Get up in the morning in Interlaken, peep outside the window and look at Jungfrau.
