Chapters of Beauty, Romance and Adventure
People often take a respite from their daily lives to travel. What makes traveling so appealing? Exploring the world offers novel experiences and discoveries in unfamiliar destinations. Switzerland, a highly regarded tourist destination, uniquely blends historic cities with paradisiacal natural environments. The Sungkyun Times (SKT) invites Kingos to explore the diverse beauty of Switzerland.
Where Cultures and Flavors Unite
-Harmony of Multiculturalism and Multilingualism
Switzerland, renowned as the most beautiful country, is geographically classified as Central Europe but categorized as Western Europe due to its stable and developed economy. According to the Switzerland Federal Statistic Office, the country has a total area of approximately 41,285 km2 and a population of 8.96 million in 2023. One of the country’s most unique features is its diverse languages and cultures. Bordering multiple countries, Switzerland uses four languages: German, French, Italian, and Romansh. Witnessing an influx of immigrants, Switzerland is experiencing increased cultural diversity. Although this is primarily due to the significant number of German, Italian, and French nationals residing in Switzerland, there has been a recent increase in immigration from Asia and Europe. Switzerland, a politically neutral country, also hosts several international organizations, such as the United Nations (UN), the World Trade Organization, and the World Health Organization. The harmonious blend of numerous cultures and languages creates a colorful picture of the country.
-Melt in the Moment
Switzerland’s chocolate and cheese fondues further enrich the country’s remarkable natural beauty. Chocolate is widely acknowledged as Switzerland’s exceptional product, particularly the internationally renowned brands such as Lindt and Toblerone. Among the various options, the SKT recommends Lindt’s pistachio-flavored chocolate, which softly combines the nutty taste of pistachios with the sweetness of milk chocolate. Kingos should further immerse into the noble chocolate experience by engaging in a hands-on experience of chocolate production at its birthplace. Why not create personalized chocolates for a long-lasting memory? After enjoying the sweetness of chocolate, now is the time for saltiness: the classic Swiss cheese fondue. Cheese fondue is not only made with one type of cheese — it is typically prepared with two or three kinds of cheese. Melted in white wine and sometimes seasoned with matcha powder, it offers a delightful experience of creamy, rich, melting cheese filling the mouth with warmth.
A Journey Through Timeless Romance
-The Heart of Switzerland: Bern
Bern, City of Bears in German, stretches from the center of Switzerland to the western highlands. The old town is the primary tourist attraction in Bern. In fact, the entire old town is a United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) World Heritage Site. The most iconic landmark in the Old Town is the Zytglogge clock tower, which is a 10-minute walk from the Hauptbahnhof Central Station. Built in the 13th century, the Zytglogge is nearly 800 years old, yet its beauty remains timeless. Other significant landmarks in the Old Town include the Bern Cathedral, the Federal Palace, and the Zähringer Fountain, each with its own compelling story. Strolling by the historic sites and over a short, steep hill, Rose Park will greet Kingos in full bloom, offering a breathtaking panoramic view of Bern. The park turns particularly romantic at sunset, with the Aare River and Bern’s buildings bathed in a golden glow. Standing here, time stops; the city’s past and present intertwine.
-The Romantic Gem of Switzerland: Lucerne
Lucerne, the City of Light, is widely regarded as the most romantic city in Switzerland. An hour away by train from Bern, the city offers an entirely different experience. The beautiful lake and historic architecture make this city charming, endearing, and delightful. The most famous attraction in Lucerne is the Chapel Bridge on the Reuss River — well-known as the oldest wooden bridge in Europe. The distinctive feature of this bridge is its roof. The triangular paintings between the columns allow visitors to immerse in the landscape and history. While the bridge itself is aesthetically pleasing, it also complements the magnificent reflection of the surrounding buildings in the tranquil river, forming a picturesque view. After enjoying the striking sight, The SKT recommends Kingos to visit the Lucerne Lion. The Lion Monument is a stunning statue of a lion intricately carved into a cliffside, with its image beautifully reflected in the river at the base of the cliff. Historically, it served as a memorial to the Swiss mercenaries who fought alongside Louis XVI until the end of the French Revolution. Appreciate the majestic monument, the memorial, the captivating art piece.
Sky High Wonders and Thrills
-Conquering the Top of Europe
To fully experience Switzerland’s pristine natural beauty, it is time to visit the Jungfrau, the Top of Europe. The Jungfrau, also known as the Heart of the Alps, is the main summit of the Bernese Alps in Switzerland. The most popular route to reach the top of the Jungfraujoch is as follows: a 20-minute gondola ride from the Grindelwald Terminal to the Eigergletscher, then a 26-minute mountain train ride from the Eigergletscher to the Jungfrau. The pathway from Jungfraujoch Station to the summit is adorned with an attraction called Alpine Sensations and digital art displays showcasing the history of the Jungfrau Railway, making the hour-long walk feel like 10 minutes. The Ice Palace, built on the Aletsch Glacier, is the most striking attraction. Featuring ice trees, ice penguins, and other creative ice sculptures, the Ice Place is also a renowned venue for hosting various collaborative events with internationally acclaimed artists. For instance, the celebrated pianist Lang Lang performed a mesmerizing solo piano concert in 2022. Upon reaching the summit of Jungfrau, Kingos will be greeted by breathtaking Alpine views. The Jungfrau’s towering peaks, snowcapped summits, and majestic skyline evoke a profound, overwhelming sense of natural wonder. Kingos, remember to capture the memorable moment by holding the Swiss flag at the Top of Europe.
-Ultimate Leisure Sports Adventure
Immerse yourself in the breathtaking scenery of Switzerland while engaging in 30 minutes of leisure sports that will undoubtedly make for an unforgettable experience. Along with Canada and New Zealand, Switzerland is one of the world’s top three most popular leisure sports destinations, with Interlaken highly recommended for leisure sports. The most popular leisure sport in the Interlaken area is paragliding. The experience of flying freely over verdant meadows, pristine lakes, and the Alps will offer Kingos an unforgettable memory. Another popular leisure sport in Interlaken is rafting. Rafting is a thrilling leisure sport that travels down the rapids of a river by rubber boat. Riding the rushing rapids in Switzerland will provide an exhilarating experience. Surround yourself with the stunning Swiss scenery, lush greenery, and clear blue skies. Leisure sports in Switzerland will offer Kingos unparalleled adventure and fulfillment, creating a truly unforgettable encounter with a natural paradise.
Like Saint Augustine said, “The world is a book, and those who do not travel read only one page.” Traveling allows one to experience new places and broaden their perspective. Explore Switzerland’s shining cities, glittering Alps, and blue lakes; their dreamlike landscapes. Kingos, why not turn the next page of your book to Switzerland?