For nearly 17 years, the charm of developed trees, winding hilly streets, and the daily presence of deer have made our neighborhood feel like home. But this summer, adventure called from across the Atlantic, leading to a ten-day journey filled with beauty, history, and friendship.

The trip began in Germany with a visit to the world-famous Neuschwanstein Castle, a storybook landmark that set the tone for days of exploration. From there, Switzerland unfolded in all its charm around the Bern area, with stops in Gruyères, Montreux, Charmay, Fribourg, and Murten. Traveling with local friends made the experience even more meaningful, allowing for a truly immersive look at Swiss life.

The itinerary was rich with variety: gondola rides up towering mountains, castle and church tours, a boat ride across pristine waters, and even a women’s Euro Cup soccer match. A neighborhood block party offered a glimpse of everyday Swiss culture, while fondue nights and plates of raclette introduced flavors that quickly became favorites. Every meal seemed to include crusty, grainy bread and, of course, exquisite Swiss chocolate.

Among the many highlights, one memory stands out above the rest: the final day in Charmay. A gondola ride revealed sweeping views of mountains and valleys, dotted with cows and goats. The crisp air, brilliant sunshine, and unhurried hike created a perfect farewell to Switzerland, made even more special when shared with dear friends.

This journey has inspired future travels back to Switzerland and beyond. The slower pace and emphasis on nature, meals, and togetherness were reminders to pause and appreciate life’s simple joys.

For anyone planning a visit, the advice is simple: explore as many towns as possible. Each city has its own personality, history, and landscape, often only an hour apart, yet each feels like discovering a whole new world.