After having explored Switzerland for almost four months now, I’ve developed a deep appreciation for everything this small country nestled in the middle of vast mountain ranges has to offer, and now believe you need to add Switzerland to your next travel bucket list.
Beautiful architecture spans Swiss cities — each with its unique twists and styles. For example, the first thing that struck me about Geneva was its infrastructure. This city, especially its Old Town, looks like it is straight out of a fairytale. Colorful buildings with intricate balconies and rich designs hover over the narrow, cobbled streets. No matter how much I’ve walked around Switzerland, the views never get old.
Speaking of views — aside from the architecture — the amount of sheer natural beauty in Switzerland calls for it to be a destination priority. From the Alps to the Jura range and Mont Blanc, Switzerland is quite literally decorated with mountains. From Geneva, you can see these mountains encircling the landscape as they become even more eye-catching when snow begins to sprinkle the mountaintops. When you travel to towns and villages like Interlaken and Lauterbrunnen, you get to see this beauty up close — beauty that cannot be captured by photos or videos. I cannot tell you the number of times my friends and I said “Oh my god” in awe during our Switzerland adventures. For a nature-lover, Switzerland is THE spot.
Switzerland is also known for its professional life, especially because of International Geneva. This means you will be surrounded by well-known organizations that instill a sense of inspiration in your daily life. It especially hits you when you’re visiting the organizations you’ve read about in your classes, knowing the work they’ve done and the passionate idols who have worked and continue to work there.
Although the business formal dress code standard can make Switzerland (at least Geneva) look boring and uptight, it is not. While it may not have the busting nightlife of Barcelona, Switzerland offers more “lit” opportunities than you would expect. Weather permitting, you can enjoy beautiful beaches around Lake Geneva, Roman villa parks, or the festivities taking place in the municipality of Nyon. You can attend events hosted by universities during the day, enjoy fondue with your friends in the evening, and escape to the city of Lausanne for the rest of your night!
While Switzerland is known for the UN Headquarters and its ski resorts, the little things truly make it the place that it is. Its array of delectable chocolates and fine cheeses will surely get you hooked. Its tap water tastes delicious. Its spotless transportation system that is never a minute late makes it easy to get around. It is one of the safest and most hospitable places in the world. And, Switzerland is right in the heart of Europe, so traveling around the continent becomes a breeze.
I hope my experiences have convinced you to add Switzerland to your bucket list. Happy travels!
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