into_the_wild

:: 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.