:: Part 1 - Day One – Zurich ::
24 June marks the start of this travel journal of mine.
Confronted with the prospect of a ten-day journey, mostly done alone,
Within the confines (or so I think) of the Swiss Alps, I wonder,
About how I could make this solitary travel an experiential one.
I’ve never really relished the idea of travelling on my own.
In fact, in my business travels so far (mainly in Japan),
I would usually return to my hotel after work.
The joy of being a tourist, and enjoying the sights and sounds
Of a new destination is, to me, somewhat muted, if there is
No outlet for expression of one’s joy of new discoveries.
Perhaps, I could embark on a special travel project?
I could travel with this 2009 moleskin journey I received
But filled only one out of the twelve months.
There is room to write more – and document my thoughts
In ink. Traveling alone means one will be able to spend
A large amount of time thinking, without the incessant
Distraction of the world-wide-web. Hence begins
The travel project, the journey of the journeyman.
My accommodation was within walking distance to Zurich HB.
It was a simple serviced apartment with no reception
And really basic furniture. At least it is not as cramped as the ones in Tokyo.
I have no complaints. The weather was sunny and good – I noticed
As I left the apartment to walk to the central area of Zurich.
I was deliberating whether to purchase a Zurich Card, but
I did not do that, as it was already half past one, when my lunch ended.
I was astounded by the food prices when I was at Lucerne last winter. Then, really
Expensive! Thus, I was relieved to know that a simple salad and sandwich
Meal at a cafeteria at Zurich HB was still affordable. After lunch, I crossed over
To the the station central to settle some administration for the Swiss Pass.
And then I was on my way.
One of the highlight of Zurich is a boat tour in Lake Zurich
And so I went on a 90 minute boat trip at only 4 CHF.
Like the hordes of eager tourists, I quickly boarded the boat
And found myself a nice seat on the upper deck. Only to realize later that I was
"’Burning”! The heat is overpowering – the only reprieve is the dry, cool breeze
That helps dissipate the heat. The banks of Lake Zurich are green stretches of
Grass carpets. I can see many locals, taking the opportunity to soak up
As much sun as they could, especially after several days of bad rainy weather.
I walked around the historic area of Zurich after the boat trip.
I’d like to write more, but my jet lag is getting me weary; it is now
3:14am Singapore time (though it is only 9:14pm here, and
Still very bright outside). I shall go to bed early, and rest myself for
A long trip tomorrow.
