Remember Travel--Switzerland

Yes, the hills definitely are alive! But this time, they’re alive with the sound of your vacation! Switzerland—it has the best chocolate and cheeses (although Wisconsin might have something to say about that), some of the best skiing, a rich history, and some of the most awe-inspiring scenery in Europe. Being that’s nestled in between Germany, Italy, France, and Austria, there are areas of the country that are predominantly French, German, and Italian speaking—it makes for a very interesting way of communicating. If you and your family have been searching for a European vacation that’s truly one-of-a-kind, then Remember Travel might suggest visiting this tiny nation, which offers more gifts that its small size might suggest.

Geneva

Geneva is a wonderful city that rests on the southwestern tip of Lake Geneva and near the River Rhône. It is a glamorous, worldly city, and is the heart of Switzerland's French-speaking territory. In Geneva, you’ll find lots of wealth, cultural influences, and progressive thinking. Geneva offers some of the most exclusive stores and extravagant restaurants to be found in the world. If you want to see a city come alive—really alive—visit Geneva in August. Every August the city organizes a 10-day-long party, Les Fêtes de Genève, that draws huge crowds. Fireworks, music, dancing in the streets, and a continuous flow of people in and out of clubs, bars, and restaurants are all part of the festivities.

Bern

Bern, the capital city of Switzerland, is about 80 miles away from Geneva and located very close to the French border. Although Bern is the nation’s capital, it is much more humble and insular than Geneva; still, it is anything but stuffy. The people are warm and don’t put on airs.Bern has a rich history of power and influence that dates from the 1100s, when a fortress was established by Berchtold V, Duke of Zähringen. By the late 15th century the Bernese had become a power of European stature, expanding their territories west to Geneva and acquiring immense wealth. Throughout the 17th and 18th centuries, Bern continued to prosper, finally taking its contemporary, democratic form in the 19th century. Now, you can trace your eyes along the architectural time line of the city, from medieval stronghold to modern city.

There are tons of activities and choices in Switzerland; visiting Bern and Geneva are but two of them. For instance, you can hike through the Swiss Mountains. Hiking is especially enjoyable in the Ticino and the Engadine, but quite wonderful almost anywhere in the country. Or, visit the castle at Chillon where Lord Byron wrote The Prisoner of Chillon. There’s a spectacular castle in Gruyères, complete with dungeon and panoramic views. Both Bern and Basel have historic Münsters of cathedrals (the one in Bern dates from the 14th century). There’s also St. Nicholas's Cathedral, which is located in the ancient city of Fribourg near Bern.