#inlovewithSwitzerland

There are many reasons to fall in love with Switzerland. From experiencing the kick off badminton match for the Swiss Open at Mt Titlis to saying cheese at the cheese factory, from taking a cruise at Lake Lucerne to that of enjoying some quality chocolates, Switzerland stands true to its hashtag. By Reema Lokesh

#inlovewithSwitzerland goes the trending hashtag. Well the tourism promoters of the country kept it simple I guess since the answer itself is simple – most travellers in India be it first timers or the evolved are naturally in love with Switzerland. For the chocolate lovers to the nature lovers, for those who care for art to those who get a high with adventure sports and pure sports, it’s a country that offers mountains and lakes, museums and melting moments in totality.

It’s also a country that insists its visitors must drink water straight out of the tap as they take pride in the purity of their H2O. It’s a country that walks the talk when it comes to nature conservation and gets nourished back by Mother Earth. It’s a country whose people are known for their bravery and loyalty from the days of the French Revolution till date, symbolised by the beautifully carved and cut monument of the iconic injured Lion that rests majestically in the city of Lucerne, standing the test of time.

Lucerne

Lucerne or Luzern, the city which is stationed geographically in the heart of country, is a perfect city for those who enjoy conversations on foot. Take a walk in the city or around the lake amidst the chestnut tree promenade, stop by for some coffee and chocolate, try and visit the glacier museum close to the Lion monument. The iconic chapel bridge, a wooden pedestrian bridge that goes over Reuss River in the city of Lucerne adds to the character of the city. A walk across the river via this famous bridge is a must do. While stepping on the bridge you also step into a part of history as the bridge is recognised to be one of the oldest wooden bridges of Europe. While walking on the bridge, do take time to look up toward the roof of the bridge as well. It has some intersection paintings framed well in a triangular format that depicts events of the past related to the city. Though a sizeable amount of the paintings were distorted in a fire, the ones which were restored are left to be viewed and cherished.

For our art and culture lovers and for some easy going strolls the Bruch quarter ranks amongst the more vibrant parts of the city. This lively residential quarter is where you will find a mixed bag of culture, local handcrafts, bars and restaurants. As recommended by Lucerne tourism one can visit Treger, a boutique known for its braces and tailored menswear or Mimoa, a source of small, handmade everyday accessories. Also located in the Bruch quarter is the Madeleine, a trendy cultural venue that stages comedy and music.

However what one needs experience without fail is a cruise journey on the Lake Lucerne. The lake manoeuvres itself with natural curves, offering a visual delight all through the journey. From nature to history, from culture to cuisine, the lake cruise experience takes you through some unique architecture on the banks to some quality cuisine on-board.

Engelberg

For those who care for some action and adventure then let’s take off from Lucerne straight into Engelberg. Engelberg is a city that is a gateway to the very famous Mt Titlis. The mountain recently played host as the venue for the kick off match for the Swiss Open 2019.

Two of India’s leading badminton players – Parupalli Kashyap and Sai Praneeth kickstarted the Yonix Swiss Open with a double badminton exhibition match alongside Switzerland’s leading athlete Sabrina Jacques and Swiss para-athlete Karin Suter – Erath at 10,000 ft on the terrace of Mt Titlis. The players experienced playing badminton in the midst of the Swiss Alpine peaks. The Yonex Swiss Open (March 12-17) commenced in full swing, almost half a year before the Total BWF Badminton World Championships that is scheduled in August at St Jakobshalle in Basel.

“I am excited and thrilled to be playing badminton on Mt Titlis, that too 10,000 ft above sea level. It was a unique experience and a lot of fun to be able to play badminton in one of the most spectacular Bollywood venues. The view is breathtaking, and I am missing Saina. She would have loved being here”, said Parupalli Kashyap who got married to fellow shuttler Saina Nehwal last December.

Playing against him, Sai Praneeth said, “I am really excited to be here in Basel and I am looking forward to the World Championships this year. This is my first visit to Mt Titlis and it has been such a great experience.” However, Engelberg is not only about Mt Titlis, but also about some interesting heritage and culture. It is home to a beautiful Benedictine monastery that has Switzerland’s largest pipe organ. Engelberg is also known for adventure sports from sledging to ice skating and more. But what you need to explore is the local cuisine. For those experimental foodies, do end your trip with some Kafee schnapps and the brave hearted can further go on try some Kafee nils. It will surely leave you with a high. High on Switzerland.