There's a newsy article written this week by the Swiss Info detailing much of what is open and what is still being re-routed to the flooded regions of Switzerland.
Much of the flooding occurred just 1 day after we departed Switzerland. The heavy rains occurred from August 19-22 which closed many tourist regions in Switzerland. The cantons of Bern and central Switzerland were the worst hit. Such areas using the scenic rail to Montreux will have to take a bus in areas of Zweisimmen and Wimmis.
Lucern and central switzerland are the most affected so make sure you read the article if you are wondering about the Lucern or Bern floods. I'd imagine the floods from hurrican Katrina are much worse. Some areas are at least 10 feet below sea level. Talk about damage to deal with. I'm sure Switzerland is now thankful they were not hit as hard as the US.
Wednesday, August 31, 2005
Tuesday, August 30, 2005
Swiss Fact or Fiction
Throughout my travels and listening to other people, I always get a laugh at some of the things many English speakers say about Switzerland. One of the most commonly known sayings is the area known as "Lake Geneva" when the real name of the lake is actually Lac Leman. Wikipedia has a great explanation on the entire thing. When in Geneva, people say Lake Geneva and where elsewhere they speak of it as Lac Leman.
Swiss Fact - Switzerland is barely one tenth as large as California. It's only 41,000 square kilometers. To give you a better idea of just how small that is, just think of Switzerland to be only seven percent of France.
Swiss Myth - One of the longest living legends is Heidi. Most people know the story of Heidi but really the only reason why the concept is still living Heidi myth, not the person herself is just a marketing ploy for tourism. It is true that much of "Heidiland" is beautiful but it has changed a lot over the last 100 years.
Swiss Sawdust Wrestling known as "Schwingen" is not really known elsewhere and in comparison is quite the same as Sumo Wrestling minus the financial support.
Other Swiss myths would not be complete without William Tell, a national hero who probably never existed.
Swiss Fact - Switzerland is barely one tenth as large as California. It's only 41,000 square kilometers. To give you a better idea of just how small that is, just think of Switzerland to be only seven percent of France.
Swiss Myth - One of the longest living legends is Heidi. Most people know the story of Heidi but really the only reason why the concept is still living Heidi myth, not the person herself is just a marketing ploy for tourism. It is true that much of "Heidiland" is beautiful but it has changed a lot over the last 100 years.
Swiss Sawdust Wrestling known as "Schwingen" is not really known elsewhere and in comparison is quite the same as Sumo Wrestling minus the financial support.
Other Swiss myths would not be complete without William Tell, a national hero who probably never existed.
Monday, August 29, 2005
Swiss Postcards
While doing my daily reading this morning, I ran into a great post card site complements of Swiss World. Seeing pictures of Switzerland just makes me want to be back there so much more. Well one day...
The sunset in the picture is so beautiful and with our days already getting considerably shorter, it is getting more depressing for me. I think I really used to not mind winter as much, but I am starting to like it less and less because I am such an outdoor person who loves the sunlight.
I made sure I soaked up a lot of great lasting sunsets while we were vacationing in on Lake Leman.
I'll work on putting on more pictures by the weekend too.
Sunday, August 28, 2005
Switzerland Flooding
As flood waters start to receed, many tourists are scrambling to see whether their Swiss vacation plans should be changed. Much of the media is reporting some better news in the last day about the damages.
Regions of interest should be Bern with the Bernese Oberland, Lucern and Interlaken areas. Despite more rains, water levels seem to be stable according to official reports. As I checked the weather report yesterday, warmer weather in the high 20's C in almost all areas of Switzerland.
In the capital of Bern, residents of the city's low-lying Matte district have been able to go back. The area's businesses were severely damaged. It looked to me that the flood waters were at least 1 meter inside the buildings.
If you look at normal water levels, it is easy to see that in any flooding situation, the Matte quarter will take just over a meter of extra water before they are in danger. The metal guard rails in this picture were bombarded with depris and wood.
The Gotthard road, which traverses through the major roadway through the Swiss Alps, was closed during these floods. Trains and the roadway have now been restored, however I am sure there are large waiting periods.
Areas such as Engelberg near Central Lucern, are cut off from normal roads and trains because of the damage. In fact, Engelberg is still only accessible via helicopter.
Regions of interest should be Bern with the Bernese Oberland, Lucern and Interlaken areas. Despite more rains, water levels seem to be stable according to official reports. As I checked the weather report yesterday, warmer weather in the high 20's C in almost all areas of Switzerland.
In the capital of Bern, residents of the city's low-lying Matte district have been able to go back. The area's businesses were severely damaged. It looked to me that the flood waters were at least 1 meter inside the buildings.
If you look at normal water levels, it is easy to see that in any flooding situation, the Matte quarter will take just over a meter of extra water before they are in danger. The metal guard rails in this picture were bombarded with depris and wood.
The Gotthard road, which traverses through the major roadway through the Swiss Alps, was closed during these floods. Trains and the roadway have now been restored, however I am sure there are large waiting periods.
Areas such as Engelberg near Central Lucern, are cut off from normal roads and trains because of the damage. In fact, Engelberg is still only accessible via helicopter.
Saturday, August 27, 2005
Walking Switzerland - Travel Bargains
Walking Switzerland -The Swiss Way- : From Vacation Apartments, Hotels, Mountain Inns, and Huts Walking Switzerland is the most informative resource for "off-the-beaten track" travel in Switzerland. Perhaps the greatest feature of the book is the detail in which every walk is described almost from "boulder to boulder" so even the amateur hiker can feel confident in the alps.
Walking Switzerland -The Swiss Way is an invaluable source of quality information. Hikes in the Val d'Herens, in the Saas Valley, and around Zermatt are all found in this book. Walking Switzerland does not contain wasted prose on "touristy" information and concentrates more on the details of each hike.
The book opens up a whole new world for travellers not familiar with "vacation apartments". These rental properties are the REAL "bargains" that can be found in a stereotypically expensive country for travellers.
It is obvious the Liebermans have written the book with passion and have uncovered several hidden gems such as the villages of "Ardez" and "Les Haudéres" that most travel guides overlook. If you didn't have this book you'd miss fabulous remote villages and hikes that are well within reach of the average hiker.
I recommend Walking Switzerland to anyone who wishes to hike in the Swiss Alps, and who needs some ideas of exactly where to go and what to expect. Information is not limited to the Valasian Alps. Hikes in the Jura, Engadine, Ticino, as well as in the Eiger, Moench, Jungfrau region are described as well.
Walking Switzerland -The Swiss Way is an invaluable source of quality information. Hikes in the Val d'Herens, in the Saas Valley, and around Zermatt are all found in this book. Walking Switzerland does not contain wasted prose on "touristy" information and concentrates more on the details of each hike.
The book opens up a whole new world for travellers not familiar with "vacation apartments". These rental properties are the REAL "bargains" that can be found in a stereotypically expensive country for travellers.
It is obvious the Liebermans have written the book with passion and have uncovered several hidden gems such as the villages of "Ardez" and "Les Haudéres" that most travel guides overlook. If you didn't have this book you'd miss fabulous remote villages and hikes that are well within reach of the average hiker.
I recommend Walking Switzerland to anyone who wishes to hike in the Swiss Alps, and who needs some ideas of exactly where to go and what to expect. Information is not limited to the Valasian Alps. Hikes in the Jura, Engadine, Ticino, as well as in the Eiger, Moench, Jungfrau region are described as well.
Friday, August 26, 2005
Hiking to Mountain Huts
Switzerland is famous for hiking. While hiking in Switzerland, it's especially nice to know you can go for just more than a day hike and stay in one of the many Mountain Inns provided throughout the terrain of Switzerland. Mountain huts are what hikers use to stop, rest and sleep along the way on their adventures.
Of course a lack of modern conveniences and the remoteness of the mountain huts would seem to be two of the keys to success of Switzerland's highest hotels - and the views are not half bad either. One great example is just a climb away in Zermatt at the Trift mountain inn. However, the Inn here is so popular that finding a bed is not so simple. Reservations ahead of time of course will help ease these fears.
Switzerland's Mountain Inns is a definitive guide to the mountain inns of Switzerland. It specifically details "Berghotels": how to reach them, what to expect, what to bring, and day hikes in detail for each of the 66 Berghotels described, in every region of the country of Switzerland. It's also a great guide on where to hike and definitely a great pay off in my collection. I highly recommend it for the avid hiker.
Of course a lack of modern conveniences and the remoteness of the mountain huts would seem to be two of the keys to success of Switzerland's highest hotels - and the views are not half bad either. One great example is just a climb away in Zermatt at the Trift mountain inn. However, the Inn here is so popular that finding a bed is not so simple. Reservations ahead of time of course will help ease these fears.
Switzerland's Mountain Inns is a definitive guide to the mountain inns of Switzerland. It specifically details "Berghotels": how to reach them, what to expect, what to bring, and day hikes in detail for each of the 66 Berghotels described, in every region of the country of Switzerland. It's also a great guide on where to hike and definitely a great pay off in my collection. I highly recommend it for the avid hiker.
Thursday, August 25, 2005
More Flooding in Switzerland
Well it seems that our trip to Switzerland was in perfect timing. Many festivals and invents are now being cancelled. As the Swiss Folklore festival should have celebrated its bicentinnel year, the September 2 to 4th event is now being cancelled.
We were in Interlaken and biked throughout the area. It's hard to imagine most of the areas are completely flooded where we were riding our "velos". One report on television showed Lucern old town with makeshift boarded walk ways. Schools are closed as a result of the floods. Most of Canton Vaud is not affected at all.
A friend of mine sent me some before and after shots of some of the swollen rivers. I certainly have some before pictures but then too the media is exploiting some of the shots they are getting and blowing it a bit out of proportion. I've seen some of the gardens damaged as these are low lying areas and not somewhere people actually live.
Some of the other worse off areas are right at water level which in any area of the world has to come with some risk for everyone.
We were in Interlaken and biked throughout the area. It's hard to imagine most of the areas are completely flooded where we were riding our "velos". One report on television showed Lucern old town with makeshift boarded walk ways. Schools are closed as a result of the floods. Most of Canton Vaud is not affected at all.
A friend of mine sent me some before and after shots of some of the swollen rivers. I certainly have some before pictures but then too the media is exploiting some of the shots they are getting and blowing it a bit out of proportion. I've seen some of the gardens damaged as these are low lying areas and not somewhere people actually live.
Some of the other worse off areas are right at water level which in any area of the world has to come with some risk for everyone.
Wednesday, August 24, 2005
Perfect Timing
It seems our entire trip in Switzerland was based on perfect timing. I can recall time after time in our trip where we looked back and said, wow that was just perfect timing! We were in the line for our boat trip to Yvoire and just as we were lining up, the line seemed to double within minutes. OR just as we had gotten seated in the restaurant, we look and some 20 or more people just pilled in right behind us.
Timing was everything judging by the flood reports in Interlaken. We did have to wait out a bit of the rain but we certainly didn't experience anything close to a flood. As reported in Swiss Info, even the town of Lauterbrunnen is not accessible currently. This was the area that we visited when going to Trummelbach falls.
Or part of the lakefront and the area in between Lake Thun and Interlaken being more suitable for boats than trains. We were definitely lucky to have been able to ride our bikes and visit Switzerland when we did. We certainly hope the floods cease and all goes back to normal soon.
Timing was everything judging by the flood reports in Interlaken. We did have to wait out a bit of the rain but we certainly didn't experience anything close to a flood. As reported in Swiss Info, even the town of Lauterbrunnen is not accessible currently. This was the area that we visited when going to Trummelbach falls.
Or part of the lakefront and the area in between Lake Thun and Interlaken being more suitable for boats than trains. We were definitely lucky to have been able to ride our bikes and visit Switzerland when we did. We certainly hope the floods cease and all goes back to normal soon.
Tuesday, August 23, 2005
Flooding in Switzerland
It's been less than a week since our return from Switzerland and we are already hearing about severe flooding in regions where we travelled. I guess we were lucky enough not to have to deal with these floods. As we also heard about the freak hail storm that supposedly injured many vines in the Vevey region, but we were not able to see this from the roads we travelled.
Flooding occurred near Lucern as the Emme River washed away part of the road in the area according to Swiss info. In particular, the areas of Thun and Brienz also are experiencing high flood waters near the lakes. We in particular had ridden our bikes in the area just one week ago in fact.
One other area of note that I've travelled to many times in to the Muota River which empties into Lake Lucern with the small village of Ibach in trouble. Most of these areas are very close to the waters edge so it's only a given why these people would have to evacuate.
Flooding occurred near Lucern as the Emme River washed away part of the road in the area according to Swiss info. In particular, the areas of Thun and Brienz also are experiencing high flood waters near the lakes. We in particular had ridden our bikes in the area just one week ago in fact.
One other area of note that I've travelled to many times in to the Muota River which empties into Lake Lucern with the small village of Ibach in trouble. Most of these areas are very close to the waters edge so it's only a given why these people would have to evacuate.
Monday, August 22, 2005
Switzerland the wonderland
Well after leaving the country that I lived in for 2.5 years, I’ve been back to visit friends and see the area as a tourist. It was a lot of fun. My blog has some great details about the trip.
See more progress on: Switzerland
Sudoku invention of Swiss Mathematician
The Swiss Mathematician Leonhard Euler invented the up and coming popular number puzzle of Sudoku. He first invented the game back in 1783 which is impressive in itself.
Sudoku is basically a test of logic which has spread in popularity in such countries as the United States, Japan and Britain. Sudoku has entered the Swiss market since June 2005 and can be found in Swiss newspapers, bookstores and on other blogs.
A few sites which show you how Sudoku works can be found below:
1. Find out how to solve the puzzle.
2. Sudoku Tutorial
3. Daily puzzle of Sudoku
You can read the full article about Sudoku thanks to Swiss Info.
Sudoku is basically a test of logic which has spread in popularity in such countries as the United States, Japan and Britain. Sudoku has entered the Swiss market since June 2005 and can be found in Swiss newspapers, bookstores and on other blogs.
A few sites which show you how Sudoku works can be found below:
1. Find out how to solve the puzzle.
2. Sudoku Tutorial
3. Daily puzzle of Sudoku
You can read the full article about Sudoku thanks to Swiss Info.
Sunday, August 21, 2005
What? - I have to Speak Swiss German
With about 70% of the population speaking a form of Schwiizerdütsch in Switzerland, it only seems logical to try to learn and speak some form of this language. Or at least understand what people are talking about when they say something like "Merci" for thankyou and "velo" the French equivalent for bike instead of Farrhad.
Check out the full review from Swiss Info on the new book - "Hoi – your Swiss German survival guide". The books gives you an English speakers perspective of what you might be confronted with while you are visiting or living in Switzerland. Check out Bergil.ch to buy this entertaining book.
Check out the full review from Swiss Info on the new book - "Hoi – your Swiss German survival guide". The books gives you an English speakers perspective of what you might be confronted with while you are visiting or living in Switzerland. Check out Bergil.ch to buy this entertaining book.
Saturday, August 20, 2005
You think you have high gas prices?
While we were traveling in Switzerland, I came to notice the price of gas has gone up some 30 to 40 cents per litre since my departure one year ago. Prices for diesel went from about 1.40 per litre CHF to about 1.70CHF per litre this August month.
If you think that isn't all too much, maybe you should consider what we pay here in North America compared to Europe. Check out the basic lows in Switzerland here.
If you think that isn't all too much, maybe you should consider what we pay here in North America compared to Europe. Check out the basic lows in Switzerland here.
Friday, August 19, 2005
Back from Switzerland
Wow - what a trip it was. Not really much to say just yet except that I am excessively tired and messed up from the time changes and the lack of sleep. The flights all went smoothly and I'm missing the Swiss Food or at least what I can buy from Coop and Migros already.
My camera broke on the trip so it will go in for repairs. At least we still didn't miss out in some 1000 photos we snapped throughout the entire time.
My camera broke on the trip so it will go in for repairs. At least we still didn't miss out in some 1000 photos we snapped throughout the entire time.
Thursday, August 18, 2005
Good bye Zurich
Our official vacation comes to a close. It's sad to leave the country I have come to love. I do hope to be back some time soon but who knows when that might be. We've been treated so well and have had such a wonderful time here. I certainly know both of us don't really want to return back to reality just yet...
Only 13 more hours of plane rides and taking care of all of my luggage. Vancouver here we come.
Only 13 more hours of plane rides and taking care of all of my luggage. Vancouver here we come.
Wednesday, August 17, 2005
More of Interlaken
Hiking in a wilderness. Seeing cheese making from local mountain farmers. Wow - the entire alps in full view, a dream come true. We did a lot of hiking and adoring the lovely scenery without anyone in site. We got to see a few cows and hike in some mud along the way to the beautiful views seen in these pictures.We came so far and did so much all today. At night we were all the way in Zurich and made it without any trouble at all.
Tuesday, August 16, 2005
Another Rainy Swiss Day in Interlaken
Well what can you say, the rain stayed longer than we wanted it to do so. But we made out enough to go for a bike ride with a fair amount of sun to both of the lakes of Brienz and Thun. Definitely wonderful to see the colors of both of these lakes.
To our surprise that morning we found two tickets waiting for us to go up to Harder Kulm. What?? We were in complete shock.. Wow - stunned with what everything our great host had done for us, with a great breakfast setting all ready for us. We got to see a pretty nice view of all of the city with only a slight amount of the Jungfrau showing...
Oh Lunch and Dinner. Lunch consisted of a delicious keesh. (I'll fix the spelling when I look it up.) Then more apple pie and a wonderful rice and chicken dinner. Followed by a great long walk without the rain this time...
Monday, August 15, 2005
Interlaken
Most of the day was full of rain, but we did get to see Trummelbach falls. Trummelbach is actually a great place to go while it is raining because you will more than likely at least get misted upon while you are visiting. The falls are located in a canyon as you traverse up and back down a lot of stairs. It's quite unique, very loud due to all of the water rushing past but incredible to see. We still managed to get in a few pictures after my camera broke, leaving us with just one camera instead of two.
Sunday, August 14, 2005
A Rainy Day in Zug
We woke up quite early in the morning to the announcer of a local running race in the village of Staufen where we were staying. It prompted us to get up pretty early and see the race. We saw a local band and climbed up to the church where we saw a wonderful view of the valley. Our visit was cut a bit short when it really started raining on us.
So our day consisted of driving to Baar a suburb of Zug for a tour of the Hollsgrotta. They are unique caves that are open for tourist to check out and enjoy. It can get a little cold and drippy inside but it was definitely better than the pouring rain outside.
After our short tour, we headed for a walk to the local restaurant for a snack and warming up a bit with coffee. A type of Floor Bowling was our next stop. I was happy to see a typical game played in Switzerland that was indoors and something perfect for the rainy day. I ended up being on the winning and losing team, still a lot of fun. Patrick hit the jackpot with a perfect 36 points when he left out the center pin. What luck for a beginner... (wink)
We drove to find the cheapest gas in Switzerland at 1.63CHF per litre for diesel fuel. Afterwards, we headed back to make a typical pasta dinner and then retire for the night. Our next day was full of a lot of driving to Interlaken...
So our day consisted of driving to Baar a suburb of Zug for a tour of the Hollsgrotta. They are unique caves that are open for tourist to check out and enjoy. It can get a little cold and drippy inside but it was definitely better than the pouring rain outside.
After our short tour, we headed for a walk to the local restaurant for a snack and warming up a bit with coffee. A type of Floor Bowling was our next stop. I was happy to see a typical game played in Switzerland that was indoors and something perfect for the rainy day. I ended up being on the winning and losing team, still a lot of fun. Patrick hit the jackpot with a perfect 36 points when he left out the center pin. What luck for a beginner... (wink)
We drove to find the cheapest gas in Switzerland at 1.63CHF per litre for diesel fuel. Afterwards, we headed back to make a typical pasta dinner and then retire for the night. Our next day was full of a lot of driving to Interlaken...
Saturday, August 13, 2005
Morning Stroll in Lucern
We took our Saturday morning stroll along the shores of the Lake Lucern while amongst the many others partaking in the always interesting Saturday morning market.
But we were more impressed by all of the lovely achitecture in old town. While others shopped we were there shooting a few pictures of the lovely buildings.
But we were more impressed by all of the lovely achitecture in old town. While others shopped we were there shooting a few pictures of the lovely buildings.
Friday, August 12, 2005
Heading to Germany for Greek Food
Well it was our last day in canton Vaud as we made our way to Bern for lunch. Much of the town was under construction but it was still fun people watching and checking out many of the shops.
We parked at the Rathaus parking but maybe it would have been a bit more wise to walk into town via the bear den bridge which was free for parking up to 3 hours. We were able to see the Einstein exhibit but I was not impressed at all.
By 2pm we made our way up to Lenzberg to see my friend Pascal and his family. We were off to Greek food that evening along the Rhine River. We of course had a wonderful time.
The border guards were quite strict this time and actually were around to check our passports and question us for a few moments. Our night ended well after 11pm as I was ready for some sleep.
Thursday, August 11, 2005
Lounging around in Lausanne
After so much traveling the day before, we decided to take it fairly easy the next day. We just stayed in town and did some shopping which was exactly what I wanted to do. Patrick actually found some great shirts and I found too many clothes I wanted to buy. I settled on a pair of pants.
We relaxed at the quai for some time, just talking and enjoying the beauty of Lac Leman.
As for dinner that evening, we went out to a great restaurant at the edge of the old town. I had the most incredible porc I've ever eaten.
We relaxed at the quai for some time, just talking and enjoying the beauty of Lac Leman.
As for dinner that evening, we went out to a great restaurant at the edge of the old town. I had the most incredible porc I've ever eaten.
Wednesday, August 10, 2005
A Perfect Day in Yvoire
This morning we were off to visit the medival village of Nyon as we headed out on a boat ride at 10am to Yvoire. This medvial little city located on the shores of lake Leman is simply beautiful. Flowers adorn many of its buildings just full of life.
The town was so picturesque and the perfect stopping area for a good meal at a decent price. We ate lunch at the Rue Rene Cassin where we were treated to some great wine from the region as well.
The shopping all along the streets was so perfect too. As the day went on it got a lot more crowded which prompted us to leave back towards Lausanne.
After a short nap, we decided to head off to our Chillon adventure and dinner in Villeneuve from the grocery store. Can you say tired!!! We watched the sunset after returning home. What a beautiful way to end the day.
The town was so picturesque and the perfect stopping area for a good meal at a decent price. We ate lunch at the Rue Rene Cassin where we were treated to some great wine from the region as well.
The shopping all along the streets was so perfect too. As the day went on it got a lot more crowded which prompted us to leave back towards Lausanne.
After a short nap, we decided to head off to our Chillon adventure and dinner in Villeneuve from the grocery store. Can you say tired!!! We watched the sunset after returning home. What a beautiful way to end the day.
Tuesday, August 09, 2005
Traveling to Lausanne
After retiring quite early the night before from a sufficient amount of jet lag, 3am rolled around the next morning and I was wide awake. Well what do we do but lie in bed and try to fall back asleep when I suddenly realize it's already 9am and we need to get ourselves up and going to Lausanne.
We arrive at the airport by 10:30am or so to pick up our rental car from Europcar without any problems at all. In fact, we end up with a Skoda 6 speed 4x4 Octavia equivalent to the passat station wagon.
Patrick gets his first day of European driving lessons as I remind him every now and then to tell him not to do what he just did. A great example of forgotten "know how" is with the blinkers on a car. You simply press down lightly for one second and your turn signals work for 3 short clicks. It's also handy to make sure you turn on your headlights completely since you are sure to encounter a tunnel along the auto route. Patrick adjusted just fine and was quite a good sport about the entire driving thing, especially since we didn't realize we needed to shift into 6th gear! (Neither did I!)
We arrived in Lausanne with perfect time for 2pm check-in. I recalled the route quite well as we found our way perfectly into Vidy where Hotel Jeunotel was located. The hostel was very warm and welcoming us and our room was just like the one I stayed in here during March of 2002. The parking lot had enough parking spots for about 20 or cars which was very reassuring for us since we rented a car for the trip.
The hotel is located off of the street Bois de Vaux in Vidy which is a suberb or Ouchy and Lausanne. Patrick liked my hotel recommendation for the price as it was a bit out of the way of the tourists but still close to everything. We managed to be there during a big volleyball tournament which brought a lot of athletes for their overnight stays, including the Swiss National teams.
That same day, we bused up for 3.40CHF to the old town via the metro at flon. We visited the Lausanne Chapel, existing since the 12th century. We managed to grab our lunch from a Coop just a short distance away.
That night, we met my blogging friend for drinks at La Luna and dinner shortly after at the Gingerette pizzeria place I visited back in 2002. By the time we got back to the hotel it was already after 11pm and we were beat.
We arrive at the airport by 10:30am or so to pick up our rental car from Europcar without any problems at all. In fact, we end up with a Skoda 6 speed 4x4 Octavia equivalent to the passat station wagon.
Patrick gets his first day of European driving lessons as I remind him every now and then to tell him not to do what he just did. A great example of forgotten "know how" is with the blinkers on a car. You simply press down lightly for one second and your turn signals work for 3 short clicks. It's also handy to make sure you turn on your headlights completely since you are sure to encounter a tunnel along the auto route. Patrick adjusted just fine and was quite a good sport about the entire driving thing, especially since we didn't realize we needed to shift into 6th gear! (Neither did I!)
We arrived in Lausanne with perfect time for 2pm check-in. I recalled the route quite well as we found our way perfectly into Vidy where Hotel Jeunotel was located. The hostel was very warm and welcoming us and our room was just like the one I stayed in here during March of 2002. The parking lot had enough parking spots for about 20 or cars which was very reassuring for us since we rented a car for the trip.
The hotel is located off of the street Bois de Vaux in Vidy which is a suberb or Ouchy and Lausanne. Patrick liked my hotel recommendation for the price as it was a bit out of the way of the tourists but still close to everything. We managed to be there during a big volleyball tournament which brought a lot of athletes for their overnight stays, including the Swiss National teams.
That same day, we bused up for 3.40CHF to the old town via the metro at flon. We visited the Lausanne Chapel, existing since the 12th century. We managed to grab our lunch from a Coop just a short distance away.
That night, we met my blogging friend for drinks at La Luna and dinner shortly after at the Gingerette pizzeria place I visited back in 2002. By the time we got back to the hotel it was already after 11pm and we were beat.
Monday, August 08, 2005
Arriving in Zurich
Well we managed to touch down in Zurich this morning, jet lagged and all. It's hard to believe just 14 hours earlier we were on the ground in Vancouver and now we have arrived a day later lacking a full nights sleep, but we have made it to Switzerland.
Tip #1 - try to pick an air flight that leaves as late as possible in the day. We weren't tired at all so sleeping at 2pm in the afternoon just didn't work for us. However, once we finally arrived in Zurich, it was our bedtime and already 11am. 1 hour was just not enough sleep!
Tip #3 - If you already have Euros, you are able to use them anywhere in Switzerland. Just pay in Euros and your change will be given in Swiss Francs. It's easier than paying the penalty for the exchange rate and saves much hassles. Just be careful at small boutiques which might not want to figure out the exchange rates.
The signs in the Zurich airport were very clear on how to get to the train station. With that and me already knowing my way around, we quickly collected our luggage and bought 2 tickets into Zurich City.
Tip #2 - If you are going to Zurich for the day, you can buy a supplemental ticket which is good for at least 10 zones around the city. It will cost you slightly more, 2.80 CHF to go to Klotten. However, paying 7 CHF plus the 2.80CHF is well worth it since getting around via tram and bus is essential. You will have to go to the regional blue machines to get these tickets and not to the train ticket counter or machine.
Tip #4 - You can use that same day ticket you just bought to get a good city tour for free. Just stop by the Limmat river which is located left of the train station and dumps into the Lake of Zurich. The ride takes about 50 minutes and stops at various places along the way, just like a tram or bus stop. Pick any starting point, then just board, and sit back and relax.
Areas which the Boat Tour takes you to are along the Limmat River towards Old Town (Altstadt), then to the Lake of Zurich and across the lake and back. We stopped on the way back into Old Town and embarked there so that we could walk around and see the Grosse Munster Church, along with all of the teddy bears that can't be missed (or maybe should be).
For just 2 francs you can climb to the top and see the entire view of the city. We checked out Frau Munster as well which had very intricate stained glass and quite the site to see.
After our stroll in old town we went up to a park, the Limmat Park I think. It's overlooking the Limmat River and is a known hang out for the younger college crowd. This is another great vantage point of the city and quit close to Bannhofstrasse.
From the park, we walked along Bannhofstrasse which is known for its shopping. We endulged in some of the Sprungli burgers famous of Zurich and went to Coop where we found an incredible wine from the Valais region for about 12 CHF.
Trams 7 and 11 go through the Bannhofstrasse, next to the train station, heading up towards Staddlehoffenplatz where we were staying. Remember, all of this can be done using the all day ticket which will allow you much freedom for traveling to and from your hotel.
Below are a few of the photos from the day.
Tip #1 - try to pick an air flight that leaves as late as possible in the day. We weren't tired at all so sleeping at 2pm in the afternoon just didn't work for us. However, once we finally arrived in Zurich, it was our bedtime and already 11am. 1 hour was just not enough sleep!
Tip #3 - If you already have Euros, you are able to use them anywhere in Switzerland. Just pay in Euros and your change will be given in Swiss Francs. It's easier than paying the penalty for the exchange rate and saves much hassles. Just be careful at small boutiques which might not want to figure out the exchange rates.
The signs in the Zurich airport were very clear on how to get to the train station. With that and me already knowing my way around, we quickly collected our luggage and bought 2 tickets into Zurich City.
Tip #2 - If you are going to Zurich for the day, you can buy a supplemental ticket which is good for at least 10 zones around the city. It will cost you slightly more, 2.80 CHF to go to Klotten. However, paying 7 CHF plus the 2.80CHF is well worth it since getting around via tram and bus is essential. You will have to go to the regional blue machines to get these tickets and not to the train ticket counter or machine.
Tip #4 - You can use that same day ticket you just bought to get a good city tour for free. Just stop by the Limmat river which is located left of the train station and dumps into the Lake of Zurich. The ride takes about 50 minutes and stops at various places along the way, just like a tram or bus stop. Pick any starting point, then just board, and sit back and relax.
Areas which the Boat Tour takes you to are along the Limmat River towards Old Town (Altstadt), then to the Lake of Zurich and across the lake and back. We stopped on the way back into Old Town and embarked there so that we could walk around and see the Grosse Munster Church, along with all of the teddy bears that can't be missed (or maybe should be).
For just 2 francs you can climb to the top and see the entire view of the city. We checked out Frau Munster as well which had very intricate stained glass and quite the site to see.
After our stroll in old town we went up to a park, the Limmat Park I think. It's overlooking the Limmat River and is a known hang out for the younger college crowd. This is another great vantage point of the city and quit close to Bannhofstrasse.
From the park, we walked along Bannhofstrasse which is known for its shopping. We endulged in some of the Sprungli burgers famous of Zurich and went to Coop where we found an incredible wine from the Valais region for about 12 CHF.
Trams 7 and 11 go through the Bannhofstrasse, next to the train station, heading up towards Staddlehoffenplatz where we were staying. Remember, all of this can be done using the all day ticket which will allow you much freedom for traveling to and from your hotel.
Below are a few of the photos from the day.
Limmat River Ride
We started our tour in Zurich with a boat ride along the Limmat River. It was a wonderful way to relax and see the city at the same time.
Gross Munster Church
This is the Gross Munster church that we climbed to the top to see a beautiful site of all of the city. Recommended as it only costs 2 chf for the view.
Sunday, August 07, 2005
Inspired by Travel Writing
Yesterday was our last full day before we are off for Europe. I'm so excited inside to actually know I'll take some time and relax given that I won't have my laptop with me for the first time. We went out to dinner as we didn't really want to have anything left over in the fridge before our departure. The guys in the restaurant told us they had visited Switzerland. We were amazed and made some good conversation out of it in the executive suite.
We did a bit of shopping yesterday and Patrick was successful in finding what he wanted clothing wise. I of course wasn't too successful finding anything, but it all made up for it by the end of the day.
We decided to take a look at the local Chapters bookstore to see if we could find a book to take with us. To my surprise as I was walking to the travel photography section, I stopped dead in my tracks when I came upon Travel Photography. Almost French grabbed my arm and pulled me in. I'm loving what I have read so far as it seems to be a story about my life as well. I guess I'll let you know how things go once I get back from Switzerland. But to me the travel book will be a success if I am almost done by the time we land.
We did a bit of shopping yesterday and Patrick was successful in finding what he wanted clothing wise. I of course wasn't too successful finding anything, but it all made up for it by the end of the day.
We decided to take a look at the local Chapters bookstore to see if we could find a book to take with us. To my surprise as I was walking to the travel photography section, I stopped dead in my tracks when I came upon Travel Photography. Almost French grabbed my arm and pulled me in. I'm loving what I have read so far as it seems to be a story about my life as well. I guess I'll let you know how things go once I get back from Switzerland. But to me the travel book will be a success if I am almost done by the time we land.
Saturday, August 06, 2005
Traveling to Switzerland
Well, it's our final day before we fly to Switzerland. I'm so excited as my mind races about all of the thoughts of my trip, making sure I'm not forgetting anything. See our Switzerland Trip Itenerary.
As I have been speaking with some of my friends, they all keep telling me that I should be some type of travel expert or another Rick Steves. I have to admit, I'd love to solely be traveling the world for my life but as long as it is a hobby of mine, I guess I really don't mind.
I've been working on learning more about my camera and am proud of some of the new photos I've taken recently.
Rick Steves book is by far one of my favorites when I travel. I'll be bringing that along with Lonely Planet's Walking Switzerland as it is one of my all time favorite hiking books with lots of good information on where to hike.
As I have been speaking with some of my friends, they all keep telling me that I should be some type of travel expert or another Rick Steves. I have to admit, I'd love to solely be traveling the world for my life but as long as it is a hobby of mine, I guess I really don't mind.
I've been working on learning more about my camera and am proud of some of the new photos I've taken recently.
Rick Steves book is by far one of my favorites when I travel. I'll be bringing that along with Lonely Planet's Walking Switzerland as it is one of my all time favorite hiking books with lots of good information on where to hike.
Thursday, August 04, 2005
Flying Through the Countryside
Now with the help of the bike "The flyer", which is an electronic bike, you can easily tredge through the Swiss countryside. Tours have been created so that people who want an easy ride can tour through the Emmental Region located in the caton of Bern.
The route includes a map, lists stations where the bikes can be hired, and restaurants where the batteries can be recharged or exchanged. I'd say this is quite a cool activity for the family.
In fact, there are a few destinations to visit.
1. Why not go see the Einstein Exhibit in Bern. This is definitely a must see especially since Einstein is only on exhibit for a year.
2. Check out the new hall of art work by Paul Klee. This Bern Exhbit boasts unique architecture and is touted as a must see if you are in Bern.
3. Check out the town of Saint Ursanne where Medival Festival took place, located in the Swiss Jura.
4. Don't miss out on the Incredible views of the Montreux Oberland Train which takes you from the Montreux mainstation potentially to Interlaken in a 2.5 hour journey. Make sure you jump on the Golden Pass line which will give you stunning views you will never forget.
By the way - Biking in Switzerland is very easy, especially since there are official bike paths throughout all of Switzerland. Enjoy the countryside without having to worry about the traffic
The route includes a map, lists stations where the bikes can be hired, and restaurants where the batteries can be recharged or exchanged. I'd say this is quite a cool activity for the family.
In fact, there are a few destinations to visit.
1. Why not go see the Einstein Exhibit in Bern. This is definitely a must see especially since Einstein is only on exhibit for a year.
2. Check out the new hall of art work by Paul Klee. This Bern Exhbit boasts unique architecture and is touted as a must see if you are in Bern.
3. Check out the town of Saint Ursanne where Medival Festival took place, located in the Swiss Jura.
4. Don't miss out on the Incredible views of the Montreux Oberland Train which takes you from the Montreux mainstation potentially to Interlaken in a 2.5 hour journey. Make sure you jump on the Golden Pass line which will give you stunning views you will never forget.
By the way - Biking in Switzerland is very easy, especially since there are official bike paths throughout all of Switzerland. Enjoy the countryside without having to worry about the traffic
Tuesday, August 02, 2005
Photographing the Dalai Lama
Most people know who the Dalai Lama is, but very few actually get the priveledge to do more than have a small glimpse of him.
One Swiss Photographer, Manuel Bauer, has gotten the priveledge to photograph the Dalai for for 4 years. The Dalai Lama is visiting Switzerland to deliver Buddhist teachings from August 5-12 at Zurich’s Hallenstadion. Hmm - We will be there during this time. I guess it will be worth our time to see if we can get a glimpse of him. Here's another link to check out more pics and information on the Dalai Lama.
One Swiss Photographer, Manuel Bauer, has gotten the priveledge to photograph the Dalai for for 4 years. The Dalai Lama is visiting Switzerland to deliver Buddhist teachings from August 5-12 at Zurich’s Hallenstadion. Hmm - We will be there during this time. I guess it will be worth our time to see if we can get a glimpse of him. Here's another link to check out more pics and information on the Dalai Lama.
Monday, August 01, 2005
Swiss National Day
As I sit here on a Stat Holiday in Canada, I'm thinking about how fun it is to celebrate Swiss National Day in Switzerland.
August 1
Since the end of the nineteenth century, the first of August has been celebrated as National Day. On this date, the three cantons of Uri, Schwyz and Unterwalden, who constituted the birth around which presentday Switzerland existed over the next 500 years.
The Men from these three cantons "at the beginning of the month of August" swore eternal allegiance to one another, promising mutual help and assistance. The alliance was formed against the Habsburgs of Austria Royalty, who at this time were trying to strengthen their position in the area leading to the Gotthard Pass.
August 1st is celebrated exclusively in the communities. A radio and tv broadcast was made by the President Schmid. In tourist communities such as around Lake Leman fireworks can be seen abundantly. Bonfires, mainly on hills or elevated ground, recall the expulsion of foreign baliffsin the fourteenth century. Children carrying lighted paper lanterns walk through the streets at night. Public and private buildings are decorated with national, cantonal, and community flags, and the bakers bake bread rolls with a little Swiss flag on them.
A special kind of celebration takes place at the Rhine Falls at Neuhausen with a magnificent fireworks display also attracts throngs of spectators. The cascading water, rushing among the rocks before majestically descending 75 feet to the Rhine below, provides an impressive natural backdrop for the ceremonies.
August 1
Since the end of the nineteenth century, the first of August has been celebrated as National Day. On this date, the three cantons of Uri, Schwyz and Unterwalden, who constituted the birth around which presentday Switzerland existed over the next 500 years.
The Men from these three cantons "at the beginning of the month of August" swore eternal allegiance to one another, promising mutual help and assistance. The alliance was formed against the Habsburgs of Austria Royalty, who at this time were trying to strengthen their position in the area leading to the Gotthard Pass.
August 1st is celebrated exclusively in the communities. A radio and tv broadcast was made by the President Schmid. In tourist communities such as around Lake Leman fireworks can be seen abundantly. Bonfires, mainly on hills or elevated ground, recall the expulsion of foreign baliffsin the fourteenth century. Children carrying lighted paper lanterns walk through the streets at night. Public and private buildings are decorated with national, cantonal, and community flags, and the bakers bake bread rolls with a little Swiss flag on them.
A special kind of celebration takes place at the Rhine Falls at Neuhausen with a magnificent fireworks display also attracts throngs of spectators. The cascading water, rushing among the rocks before majestically descending 75 feet to the Rhine below, provides an impressive natural backdrop for the ceremonies.
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