Introduction: discover Switzerland

Even though it is a rather small country, Switzerland has a lot to offer. There is no metropolis and no sea, but many picturesque cities and countryside to explore. After discovering so many foreign counties, I wanted to invest some time in my homeland. Because of its size, Switzerland can easily be crossed in half a day. Instead of one big journey, I undertook several short trips to different parts. My intention was not to visit the main attractions, but the real Switzerland.

Zurich: the only large Swiss city

With roughly half a million people, Zurich is the largest city - and yet not the capital! Its urban character and international flair distinguishes is clearly from the rest of Switzerland. Only Geneva can hold against it, but is still noticeable smaller. Since years I find the pulsating and ever changing nightlife most appealing. Thanks to the unstoppable party crowd, I can happily go clubbing on a Saturday or Sunday afternoon after brunch. In January I also spent two days in Zurich in preparation of my next trip abroad (more to come!).

Basel-Country: into the hills

The city of Basel is highly interconnected with, yet divided from its Countryside. Since centuries there is sort of a hate-love relationship with strong dependencies. Besides the political struggle, this area offers great opportunities for recreation. These days, I mostly drove through and enjoyed its beauty from a comfortable distance. At least once, I visited a former working colleague and had a good hike with him and his family. Crossing one of the many hills by foot is a great way to recharge ones battery.

Valais: speaking French again

Having four different national languages is not always easy. At school, everybody learns at least two of them. Nevertheless, people from the German part do not like to speak French and vice versa. This sometimes results in an awkward situation - such as a conversation in English. In mid January, my uncle invited our family to a birthday party in his chalet. Together we enjoyed three days in the snow: sledging, skiing, playing Bavarian curling and celebrating. It was a memorable weekend with lots of fun and snow.

Ticino: crossing the Swiss Alps

Traveling in Switzerland without a trip to the Italian part is incomplete. This small region is separated from the rest by the massive Alps. Driving through the Gotthard, one of the worlds longest road tunnel, is totally worth it. Reaching the south side feels like entering Italy, but for some reason it is still Switzerland. There I enjoyed the significantly warmer weather at the magnificent Lake Maggiore. Together with a dear friend, I enjoyed lunch in the sun and hikes up the hills. For two days we felt like being on vacation in Italy.

Goodbye: packing and leaving

By the end of January, my idyllic get around was suddenly over. My plans for the next half year were already settled and had to be launched. As part of my trips around Switzerland, I moved my last belongings to a private storage. During the very last days, I packed my bags and met my closest relatives to say goodbye. I managed to see most friends and family one last time before heading to the airport. Finally sitting in the airplane and watching Basel fade away felt sad and great at the same time.

Summary: intensive, but wonderful

Living in Switzerland all my life, I have seen many places before. This time, getting around felt utterly different. Now I visited many places, not knowing when I might come back. Instead of having more quiet time at home, I pushed myself to travel to all regions. It was a little tiring, but in the end I had a great time and enjoyed Switzerland at its fullest. I left with the greatest memories and will happily return some day.

Thanks to all my friends and family for having such a good time.
(And a very big sorry to all those, whom I could not meet anymore!)