Switzerland
Geneva
Located directly across from the main railroad station
Phone: 011 41 22 908 49 50
I think about $60+ per night, incl. good breakfast.
For those who want to see one of the, only in my opinion, most boring and unadorned
places in Europe, Geneva is your ticket. Hotel Bernina was clean, directly across
from the large main station, and thus very conveniently located. Nearby (walk
out the door to the left for 3-4 minutes) is a great buffet-type place to eat.
Any food or liquid you care to enjoy is available from a variety of counters.
Amazingly, from my 7th floor window I saw, above the rooftops of Geneva, way
in the distance, brightly red illuminated at sunset, the unique claw shape of
Mt. Blanc. The previous night, of course, I had roomed at the foot of that beautiful
mountain in lovely Chamonix, France. A trip on the huge lake and a walk in the
old town were the highlights of my Geneva visit. The huge fountain at Lake Geneva
was unfortunately not in operation.
Lucerne
Hotel Schlüssel
Franziskanerplatz 12
Phone: 011 41 41 210 10 61
For reservations go here: Luzern-Hotels
You can't miss it. The Franciscan
Church is right next to it and just a short walk from the station (left, away
from the lake), past the post office, along the river. Clean, good restaurant,
acceptable breakfast, and accommodating place in a fairytale town. The town
itself ranks surely among the most picturesque in Europe. Nestled next to a
large lake surrounded by the Alps. Luzern is a photographer's paradise and the
area is a hiker's dream. Don't miss the fabulous, but strenuous hike up Mount
Pilatus and ride down on the steepest cog railway in the world. For the less
ambitious or able, the peak can be reached via cable car or the cog railway.
You can also paddle or sail the lake or take a ride on one of the white tour
ships to nearby towns or just around the lake. A special tour from town includes
a lake cruise to the base of the mountain, a ride up and down with either cable
car or cog railway and a return trip via boat. The very friendly main station
personnel have tours and info available. On the lower concourse you will also
find a room with several teller machines for your convenience.
