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Day 1 : 28.10.2017 Saturday : Delhi - Abu Dhabi - Paris
Finally, the day came. We four viz. me, my wife Meenu and sons Rishab and Himanshu, packed our luggage (each one of us packed separate suitcase) on Friday. Since the flight was in early hours of Saturday morning, we could not sleep on Friday night. At 00.20 am on 28th October 2017 (Saturday), we started from our home in Delhi for the Delhi International Airport. The 4 suitcases and 3 cabin baggage fit comfortably by using last row of seat of Uber Taxi (Maruti Ertiga) by flattening it. Though it had a carrier at the top but we managed without using it. We had booked cab under SUV option of Uber. At 1.00 am, we reached the airport and entered through Gate No. 6. The Etihad Airways check-in counter was H. We stood in line at the counter. There, we met Chandan from CoxnKings. We deposited check-in luggage and got issued Boarding passes for Delhi-Abu Dhabi and seperate boarding passes for Abu Dhabi- Paris. We were told that luggage will automatically shift to the other aircraft at Abu Dhabi. We noticed that nowadays there is no need to take tags for cabin baggage. Thereafter, we stood in long queues of Immigration which took us about 1 hr. It was pleasant to find that nowadays there is no need to fill Immigration Form or any other form, while flying out of Delhi. After clearing immigration, we cleared the security check. That took us to the Duty free shops area. We relished Star Bucks coffee there. After passing through that area, we went to the Food court on the 1st floor and there we munched some snacks like Dominos pizza, McD burger, Sprite etc. as we were feeling hungry now. We then walked through the traveletor towards Gate No. 07 and reached there at 3.30 am and rested on the chairs laid out there. The Boarding started at 3.45 am.
At 4.45 am, our aircraft started from the Delhi Intl Airport. The seating arrangement in the aeroplane was 2x4x2. I watched Hindi movie ‘OK Jaanu’ in the plane. The Etihad airline crew served us Breakfast at 6 am which comprised 2 slice pineapple, 1 slice of watermelon, Yogurt, Juice, Saboodana and subzi and small buns pieces. I tried to make use of time by trying to sleep but it was hard to come.
At 8.00 am (Indian time), our plane landed at Abu Dhabi International Airport but the Local time here was 6.30 am (i.e. time in Abu Dhabi is 1 ½ hours behind Indian time). After alighting from the plane, we went to the Security check. Our Boarding pass was not stamped here. We then waited near Gate No. 6 for Boarding to start for Paris. The Boarding started at 8.10 am (Abu Dhabi local time) as flight was at 9.10 am (local time). The Boarding pass for Abu Dhabi – Paris Flight of Etihad was stamped and passport was checked, at near Gate 6. I learnt that Abu Dhabi is the Headquarter for Etihad Airline. Almost every plane parked at Abu Dhabi airport was of Etihad airline. At 8.50 am (Delhi time 10.20 am), we entered the aircraft of Etihad airline. It was a bigger plane : 3 x 4 x 3 , as compared to the one we flew from Delhi to Abu Dhabi which was 2x4x2. The flight from Abu Dhabi to Paris (CDG Airport) is 7 hours long (Paris is 2 hrs behind Abu Dhabi and 3 hours 30 min behind Indian time).
At 9.15 am (local Abu Dhabi time) (10.45 IST), our Flight started from Abu Dhabi. Meals were served on board. There was LCD screen behind every seat. I used some hours for sleeping and passed some hours by viewing movies.
At 2.15 pm (Paris time) (5.45 pm IST), we landed at Terminal 2A of CDG Airport, Paris. The Flight duration was about 7 hours. We stood in line at Immigrations counter, which took us about 30 min. The counter was named Police aux frontiers or Border Police. Thereafter, we collected our luggage from the conveyer belt.
We had not taken any international roaming package on our mobiles and so Rishab used Rebtel App in his mobile, by using wifi network of the Airport, and called the CoxnKings representative who was to meet us at the Paris Airport. The said gentleman, who was to be our Tour Manager for next 7 days, named Mr. Jehangir Bhanja (a Parsi from Maharashtra) (09820318264) carrying CoxnKings placard, met us at a point (near counter of ‘French Customs’) inside the airport building after clearing the immigration. We could locate him only after Rishab dialled his paris number using Rebtel app through airport’s free wifi.
There were total 47 persons in our group. We all gathered at that point inside the airport. After all assembled, we all followed Jehangir via lift to the bus/coach parked downstairs. We all put the luggage in the bus, helped by the driver. The bus driver, who is from Spain, helped. This Mercedes Benz Bus (2x2 Coach, with LCD Screen) no. WGM 19171 was of RAF TRANS company (www.raftrans.eu) (a famous co in Europe) and its driver would be our companion for next 7 days.
At 3.50 pm (Paris time), we reached Hotel Campanile, adjacent to Novatel Hotel and Golden Tulip Hotel. Jehangir sat in hotel lobby and gave the room keys to all persons. We got Rooms 109 and 130, on the 1st floor. These were small rooms as compared to Indian standards. There was no room service or staff. The guest has to carry luggage himself to the room, using the lift. I found that just one person is managing the entire hotel – he was managing reception and if one orders for say towel in the room, same person does the chore !
We got freshen up. One important thing we noticed was that water bottle is not given complimentary, unlike in any hotel in India. One can drink water directly from the tap in the bathroom, throughout Europe, and it is safe. One has to purchase the water bottle (which is costly), if one is not comfortable drinking tap water.
At 5 am, we four, as also some other fellow travelers, came out of the hotel to have a feel of the city around. It was very cold and windy and so we all had put on 3-4 layers of clothing, including wind sheeter and muffler. At 5.15 pm, we four walked and boarded free shuttle across the road opposite our hotel and went to Aeroville Mall (15 min ride). I noticed that there were many hotels in this region, which was Paris’s suburb and the shuttle picks tourists from various hotels to this Mall and do return trips continuously throughout the day with last shuttle around 8.30 pm. We could see people wearing warm jackets and mufflers and caps. I found people here quite fashion friendly.
Aeroville Mall is quite a big mall, with all leading brands available inside. It was beautiful. We could see people of different nationalities, hues and color, here.
At 6.30 pm, we returned to the hotel, using same free shuttle service. Incidentally, our Coach Bus, ready with all our group members, was waiting outside the hotel, to go to a restaurant in the city for dinner. We boarded the same.
On our way, there was some traffic jam due to some accident. One noticeable thing was that despite so much traffic and rush, no one honks as Horn is prohibited here. One honks only in case of emergency or when someone is abusing someone !
We reached Indian restaurant called DAAWAT, which was 25 min drive from our hotel. We were served Indian buffet, with Kheer in dessert ! It was such a relief getting hot Indian food in such cold weather in a foreign country.
At 8.30 pm, we returned back to our hotel.
The Tour Operator charged Euro 132 per person for an optional package for tomorrow evening, called ‘Gala Evening in Paris’, comprising the River Siene Cruise, illumination Tour of City including Eiffel Tour illumination and the famous Lido Show. Jehangir was collecting the money in the lobby. I gave him charges for we four. I and Meenu wanted to walk and take a stroll, as we do everyday after dinner. But it was cold and windy outside, so we walked inside the hotel. At 9 pm, we went to our room and slept, to complete the long awaited sleep and also because it is hectic day tomorrow.
All rooms and washrooms within the rooms had heating arrangements which comprised of a heating plate like equipment which is installed at some unnoticeable place in the room attached to a gas pipeline and there is a lever which can be rotated to turn on and off the heating. When you turn it on, the plate becomes hot and radiate the heat.
Day 2 : 29.10.2017 Sunday : Paris
At 5 am, we got up. I did whatspp call to relatives in Delhi. We took bath and got ready and went to the Hotel’s restaurant on the Ground floor for the breakfast. The time allotted to our group for the breakfast was 7-8 am. At the entrance of the restaurant, a tall sturdy negro lady would not allow visitors to enter the restaurant before their allotted time. On entrance, you get a multipurpose plate and then from the counters, you can pick whatever you want. I would like to point out that one has to be very particular and punctual, particularly if you are vegetarian, while travelling in group package conducted tours and strictly abide by the timings given. Since different groups have different requirements for food, after the allotted time is over, they remove the food and then put in place food meant for the next group which may be from some other country like China or Thailand in which case there would be no Indian or vegetarian food. The tea, coffee, warm water was being dispensed by a dispenser on pressing requisite button. Press Capuccino button if you want coffee with milk !
At 8.30 am sharp, our bus started from the hotel, with all group members.
At 9.10 am, we reached Disneyland. Disneyland is an entertainment resort in the outskirts in Marne-la valley, a town located 32 km east of centre of Paris. Metro station at Disneyland is also named as Manena valley. It is most visited theme park in all of Europe and is owned by The Walt Disney Company of USA. Disneyland, Paris, spread over 4800acres, comprise of two parts – one is Disneyland Park which mainly comprises rides and swings etc and – other is Walt Disney Studio Park.
At 9.10 am, we reached Disneyland. Disneyland is an entertainment resort in the outskirts in Marne-la valley, a town located 32 km east of centre of Paris. Metro station at Disneyland is also named as Manena valley. It is most visited theme park in all of Europe and is owned by The Walt Disney Company of USA. Disneyland, Paris, spread over 4800acres, comprise of two parts – one is Disneyland Park which mainly comprises rides and swings etc and – other is Walt Disney Studio Park.
Jehangir gave tickets to all of us which he had already purchased in advance (otherwise there were big queues for tickets). Our bus was parked at a place meant for buses and cars (there was huge parking area). Jehangir took all of us to a common point ‘V’ from where one way goes to Disney Studio and other goes to Disney Park having rides. With this common ticket, one can go to either of these (but not both). We four chose Disney studio as we were not interested in the rides in Disneyland park. After entering Disney Studio park, we found that there were long queues at every attraction. We had no choice but to stand in queue alongwith others. As a result, in the allotted time of 3 hours, we could see only 2-3 activities but this was quite sufficient for us, as visiting more attractions would have tired and exhausted us. We joined long queues at The Hollywood Tower (Tower of terror), Disney animation and enjoyed the same.
We also saw various equipments and apparatus used in Hollywood movies to create special effects, displayed there. There were several buildings / halls and structures, housing variety of attractions and activities. In this entire melee and the rush to see maximum in minimum time, we could not take lunch. It was a mistake. One should take time out to eat something as lunch, to gain optimum level of energy.
12.30 pm was our scheduled departure time from Disney Park. However, we had to wait 35 minutes extra for seven co-travellers who got late. It was drizzling and highly windy. We all put on Jackets / windsheeters.
At 1.05 pm, we all started from Disneyland. Jehangir took us through the city and showed many buildings and monuments on the way from the bus : Opera house, Church, French Assembly/parliament, Place de la Concorde (site of the famous guillotine) (statues of sitting lady at eight corners), Champs Elysees (one of the most fashionable streets in the world), the Napoleonic Arc de Triomphe (near Lido), Hotel des Invalides (Hospital), Napoleon church at the back of the Hospital. We clicked pictures from the bus. We got down at a shop named Fragonard, the famous Perfume wholeseller selling to leading brands and now under its own brand also. The lady executive there introduced us to various fragrances. Few in our group bought the same. Our Guide Ms. Mary M (elderly lady) (arranged by CoxnKings) joined us from there. We were again taken on city tour and were shown buildings and monuments from the bus, with Ms. Mary explaining about the monuments using a mike. At 2 points, we all got down for 5 min. It was a panoramic view from the bus and many of us clicked pictures. I found the entire city so beautiful that I felt all buildings, roads, sights worth clicking !
At 4 pm, our bus reached Eiffel Tower. Ms. Mary took leave. Eiffel Tower is built with wrought Iron and is named after Gustave Eiffel (a small bust of him is installed there) whose company designed and built it. It is one of the seven wonders of the world and is stated to be the most visited paid monument in the world. The tower is 324 mtr high (same height as 81-storey building) and is the tallest structure in Paris. There are total 3 levels in Eiffel Tower. Tickets can be purchased to go up by stairs or lift (elevator) to the 1st and 2nd levels. Very few go to the 3rd/top level. 2nd level is the best for the Best view of the city. There are restaurants on the first and second levels.
Jehangir purchased Tickets at the spot for 2nd level of Eiffel Tower. We stood in queue for about 45 min for our turn to board the lift. It is a double decker lift with 2 floors/decks. Each floor can accommodate 45 persons at a time.
Within 1 min, we reached 2nd level. It was very cold and windy out there. I took photos and videos of breathtaking panoramic view of Paris city. At 2nd level, there are 2 decks. We viewed from both the decks. After spending about 30 min there, we went down to 1st level via lift. The 1st level has glass/plastic floor as border and one can walk on it and see beneath below. One can also take stairs to come to 1st level.
At 6.10 am, we took the lift and got down and assembled below the Tower at the given time. Today, it became dark early and so we could see the sparkling illumination of the Eiffel Tower (the Japanese company Philips has installed thousands of LED bulbs over it) which happens every hour after sunset.
We all together then walked to the bus parked nearby.
At 7 pm, we reached the Restaurant ‘Bombay Villa’ for dinner. It was again an Indian dinner. We were served cold Gulab jamun in dessert !
At 7.45 pm, we four and some other members started from the restaurant in another bus. The regular bus Trans went back to hotel with those persons who have not opted for Siene cruise and Lido show.
At 8.15 pm, we reached point Bateux on River Siene from where one can take the Cruise.
Jehangir purchased tickets and gave to everyone. We boarded the cruise. It started in 10 min at given time of 8.40 pm. We enjoyed nice night view of the Paris city on both sides, with buildings being illuminated. Eiffel tower was visible in background throughout. It was very cold and windy on the open deck while the zero level deck, which was covered, was kept warm. So, we kept moving up and down. We sailed under old and beautiful bridges, admiring illuminated monuments as we glide by. It was a memorable cruise. At 9.40 pm, the river Siene cruise ended.
Jehangir purchased tickets and gave to everyone. We boarded the cruise. It started in 10 min at given time of 8.40 pm. We enjoyed nice night view of the Paris city on both sides, with buildings being illuminated. Eiffel tower was visible in background throughout. It was very cold and windy on the open deck while the zero level deck, which was covered, was kept warm. So, we kept moving up and down. We sailed under old and beautiful bridges, admiring illuminated monuments as we glide by. It was a memorable cruise. At 9.40 pm, the river Siene cruise ended.
The Bus, then, took us to Trocadero Square ( a spot between 2 buildings) from where we can clearly and comfortably see illumination of Eiffel tower. The Eiffel Tower has normal lighting but after sunset every hour for 5 minutes, it is extra illuminated with sparking 55000 lights donated by Philiips. It started at 10 pm and went on till 10.05 pm. (Today, the first illumination was at 6 pm as it was rainy and became dark early today).
At 10.25 pm, we reached LIDO, which is a private banquet on famous Champs Elysees Street nearby. Jehangir purchased tickets and gave to us. We entered. The visitors are required to be in sobre dress. Long overcoats and jackets are not allowed and can be deposited for free at the Reception. At 11.45 pm, the show started. Guests are not allowed to click photographs inside, once the show has started. Everyone was served with one complimentary glass of champagne / Juice. It was a semi nude show. I, and some others, found it too embarrassing. I advise those going with families to avoid this show, it’s a sheer waste of time and money.
At 1.30 am in the late night, the show ended. Everyone was feeling sleepy after long hectic day. During return by our bus, we passed through small tunnel wherein Lady Diana was killed in a road accident. We reached hotel by our bus in 20 min. On reaching our rooms, we readied luggage for tomorrow.
At 2.30 am, we went to sleep.
Day 3 : 30.10.2017 Monday : Onto Switzerland
At 6.15 am, we got up and got ready. At 7.30 am, we took breakfast in restaurant of hotel.
Meenu pieced birthday cake arranged by Jehangir yesterday night and served to 16-17 group members at breakfast table (she had her birthday on 28th October).
Hurriedly we ourselves brought our luggage lying packed in our rooms 130 and 109.
Meenu pieced birthday cake arranged by Jehangir yesterday night and served to 16-17 group members at breakfast table (she had her birthday on 28th October).
Hurriedly we ourselves brought our luggage lying packed in our rooms 130 and 109.
At 8.24 am, our bus started from the Hotel Campanile, Paris for Switzerland. It is about 700 km run from here to Lucerne in Switzerland. The maximum speed allowed on the highway is 100 miles per hour. The highway from Paris to Switzerland is very good. We were told by Jehangir that as per European laws, the driver can drive for a maximum of 2 hours at a stretch. Thereafter, he has to take mandatory break of 15 min, and thereafter, he can continue, and so on.
At 10.30 am, we stopped for 20 min at a gasoline station for using toilet. There is Departmental store at every petrol pump (called ‘Gas Station’ here), where one can buy all groceries etc. We purchased water bottle.
(All members used to utilise the journey time for sleeping in the bus as all were hard pressed for time and were not getting enough time to sleep in the hotel).
At 12.50 pm, we stopped on the highway at a point where there was toilet facility and also benches nearby. There, we took packed lunch (packed by Delhi Durbar restaurant). At 1.20 pm, we started again. There were large wind turbines in the fields on the way.
At 3.30 pm again we took halt for 20 min at a gas station for toilet and refreshment (I took magnum ice cream).
At 4.40 pm, we crossed border and entered Switzerland, via City of Mulhouse. There were many tunnels here. It would not be out of place to say that Switzerland is a country of tunnels. The cow milk is produced in bulk here. I was told that Cow produce 40 litres per day here. That perhaps explain the reason as to why chocolates are produced in plenty here and chocolates industry is the biggest industry here.
At 6 pm, we stopped and got down in front of Rolex showroom in Lucerne. Lucerne is a city in central Switzerland, in the German-speaking portion of the country. Its population is just about 85,000. We were given one hour to roam around and shop in Lucerne for watches, chocolates etc. We roamed around. It was cold and windy. Saw Chapel Bridge, which is a wooden bridge first erected in the 14th century; and lake Lucerne. I took pictures. I noticed that the city has electric buses with overhead wire like of metro train / trams. Jehangir told us that we can go to store called Bucera where we can buy all branded watches like Rolex, Tissot, however it is a costly shop (local switch watch is 100SF). He suggested to go to store called Casagrande for buying chocolates, which he said is a good cheap shop. It also has a washroom at 2nd level. One can also buy Swiss knife, swiss Cowbell. One can also visit the stores like Bachmann and Bucherer, for watches. We went to a shop and bought some chocolates. I sat on stairs of Credit Suisse Bank, which was lying closed. After that, we all walked to Lion Monument. It is a lion statue in rock, separating visitors by a small water body. It commemorate the Swiss guards who were massacred in 1792 during the French Revolution. However, it was quite dark and we had to do with seeing it in the light put up there. We all then walked to a point to board our bus. We boarded bus at 7.45 pm, which took us to an Indian restaurant called ‘Tandoori’. There, we took dinner. We were served hot small gulab jamun in dessert as well as Tandoori nan !
At 8.20 pm, we started from the restaurant.
At 9 pm, we reached our Hotel Lowen in Lungern region. Lungern is a municipality in the canton of Obwalden in Switzerland. Hotel Lowen is owned and operated by a Gujarati Tushar Shah. We were allotted rooms and settled in our rooms. Here also, the rooms were heated with similar Gas heater plates. Rooms were small in size. Again, water was to be drank from the tap. For hot water, the hotel had placed a hot water dispenser on mezannine floor, from where one could fill the glass or bottle.
We then went to sleep.
Day 4 : 31.10.2017 Tuesday : Switzerland : Jungfrau, Interlaken
At 7 am, I went for morning walk and also did some pranayam. It was very cold and temperature was about 4 degree Celcius. At 8.15 am, we took breakfast in the dining hall of the hotel.
Today is the free day in Switzerland. However, one could go to Jungfrau by paying Euro 158 per person to Jehangir, which included to and fro journey, ticket and Lunch at Jungfrau. All members of our group except 3-4, opted for Jungfrau trip.
(Keep sufficient jackets, windsheeters, inners gloves and good goggles, Muffler or cap, in your handbags for today, as it was -1 at Jungfrau and -4 at top).
At 9.05 am, our Bus started from the Hotel. We stopped after ten minutes for 5 min by road side to take pics of the beautiful morning view of Lungen town with lake on its side. Gave money to Jehangir in the bus for Jungfrough. We passed through so many tunnels today also.
At 10.10 am, we reached train station called GRINDLE WALD (pronounced as ‘Grindleworld’). I bought gloves for Himanshu for SF 55 at the shop outside the station, as he was feeling very cold in his hands and we were heading to snowy area where temperature would be in minus. We waited for the train.
At 10.10 am, we reached train station called GRINDLE WALD (pronounced as ‘Grindleworld’). I bought gloves for Himanshu for SF 55 at the shop outside the station, as he was feeling very cold in his hands and we were heading to snowy area where temperature would be in minus. We waited for the train.
(Train journey to Jungfrau is on an incline. You are not allowed to eat on train but you can carry it in your bags. No toilet on train but its available at every station).
At 10.55 am, the train started (It was yellow colored, with green stripes). At 11.20 am, we got down at Kleine Scheidegg station (pronounced as ‘Clinershadik’) and changed the train. At 11.35 am, the new Train started, which is red colored cogwheel train (Its written ‘JUNGFRAUBAHN on the train). At 11.53 am, the train stopped at Eismeer station for 5 min. There were Tunnels after 4 min of start of the train.
At 12.10 pm, after meandering through dramatic mountain scenery, train reached Jungfrau railway station, which is the highest altitude railway station in Europe. It was nice to find that at the entrance of Jungfrau- Top of Europe, there was a board with the word ‘Welcome’ in various languages, which included even in Hindi language : Swagat ! This point is at a height of 11333 ft (3454 mtr).
Jungfrau is one of the main summits of the Bernese alps, located between the northern canton of Barn and the southern canton of Valais, halfway between Interlaken and Fiesch. Jungfrau is called the ‘Top of Europe’, a wonderful world of glaciers and eternal ice. It is at a height of 13,642 ft (4158 mtrs).
On reaching there, our tour manager Jehangir gave instructions to all of us. We went to level 0 and took lift to 1st flr where hot Indian lunch was arranged for us in the ‘Restaurant Bollywood’ there. We all took hot Indian lunch, which was delicious. (The charge of 32 Euro per person for lunch was included in our today’s package). Free Wifi was functioning all over here. We then went to level 4 and reached Ice tunnel where all structures are made of ice. After passing through ice tunnel, we came out in the open area at level 4. It was a good view. Infact, we realized that we were standing on the glacier. It was bright sunny day. There was a Swiss Flag pitched up there. Its red color against white background of snow was looking wonderful. People were playing with slow and clicking photographs. We also took pics.
We then walked back and took lift from 4th flr to level 0 and then walked along blue lighting to reach gate no. 4 which is entry to the Top point on Jungfrau i.e. the Sphinx Observation Terrace at 3571 mtrs, the loftiest point of all. (You must have seen this place in many movies). We took lift from there to reach the top. Lift was very fast. We went up by 300 mtr (?). It was an observation deck of steel pitched up on the glacier. We clicked pics here. There were locks tied at one point by people. We then came down and went to Gate 7 and entered a cave. There were beautiful paintings and scenaries on big walls while we passed through by traveletor inside the cave. There were shopping shops of watches and choclates etc at 2nd level, including showroom of LINDT Swiss chocolates. We bought chocolates here.
Since the altitude is high and air is dry at this altitude, it is advisable to drink lot of water regularly at height above 10000 ft. One need not worry for urination, as well maintained toilets are everywhere with Jet Dryer facility for drying hands.
At 2.50 pm, we all assembled again at Level 0, at the given time and point.
At 3.00 pm, we all moved and reached back at Jungfrou station to board the train back. At 3.13 pm, the train started. It is like metro train but fully furnished. From Jungfrou to Eigergletscher, the train moved throughout underground tunnel. At 3.36 pm, the Train halted at Station Eigergletscher for 5 min. At 3.47 pm, the Train stopped at Kleine Scheidegg station, which is the last station. From here, we took another train parked there. Full bogey for us. Its a little less furnished train. Seats are wooden with fabric seats pasted over it. It was Green color train. At 4.00 pm, the Train started. Its glass windows can go up and down. It is decline from here, so speed is low.
At 4.35 pm, the train reached Grindelwald station, the last station.
I took Capuccino coffee for 2.5SF for Himanshu from same shop from where we purchased gloves in morn at very high for 55SF.
We boarded our bus parked there. We all waited for the doctor couple left at Jungfrau.
At 5.23 pm, after waiting for more than 45 min for the couple who did not reach despite long wait, the Bus started as we all were getting late.
At 6.10 pm, we reached Interlaken city. Interlaken is a resort between 2 lakes - Brinz and Thuns (Interlaken means ‘between two lakes’). Most hotels here are occupied by Arabs. Horse Carriage can still be seen here.
I feel that there is basically one street to be seen here, which is called Interlaken street. Jehangir gave us 30 min to roam around and see the city. It was already dark. We all saw statue of famous Bollywood director and producer Yash Raj Chopra in a park on Interlaken street and clicked photographs there. He, in a plaque there dated 8th April 2011, is described as ‘Ambassador of Interlaken’, probably because many of his films were shot here and he has been credited with showcasing Switzerland, especially Interlaken, to the Indians and outside world through his films. Then we strolled on the street, which had many branded showrooms and stores and hotels like Minerva. Coop store is also here, which is a departmental store and you can buy all groceries here. I bought milk tetrapack here. The milk in whole of Europe is so pure (infact, I drank milk in tetrapacks at many places in this Europe trip). On return, I and Rishab went to a ‘Casino Kursaal Interlaken’ which was near Yash Raj Chopra statue and near where our bus was parked. However, our bus was ready to go and our hotel was far away and cab service was doubtful to reach hotel, so we dropped the idea of playing in the casino and boarded the bus.
At 6.50 pm, our bus started from Interlaken after 40 min break.
At 7.30 pm, we reached our Hotel Lowen. We took dinner in the dining hall of the hotel. After dinner, I walked. Then, went to sleep.
One thing I noticed is that Animals / cows graze in field and do not come on the road highway because there is fencing in mountain fields along the highway which have 6V current. If they come and touch it, they get a small shock but not fatal.
I also noticed that roads and every place here in Europe is so clean, because people do not throw any waste or rubbish at public places. Something to be learnt by we Indians !
Day 5 : 1.11.2017 Wednesday : Switzerland : Glacier 3000, Geneva
At 5.15 am, I woke up.
At 6.50 am, I and Meenu after getting ready walked for 20 min on the main road and took snaps. The cottages here were so beautiful. Their color scheme was something to learn. I saw that in fields the locals had accumulated the food (chara) for the animals packed in big polybags (light blue color) which will be used for animals in winters as all fields would be covered with snow and there would not be any green grass for grazing.
From 7 to 8, we took Breakfast in the Hotel dining room.
At 8.05 am, our bus started from the Hotel. At 9.15 am, we stopped at a gas stn (Agrola) for toilet for 10 min. We passed through valleys and tunnels. The roads were very smooth and well laid out. We also passed by the lake, followed by green grasslands with upward slope on one side and downward slope on other side. It was bright sunny day. It was such a picturesque view – unending serpentine black tar roads against backdrop of green grazing fields and mountains in backdrop and white cottages with red sloping roofs. Many cottages apparently were wooden. At one point, we stopped at a railway crossing. There were small roadside towns after every few kilometers. But these small towns looked very modern, with departmental stores, hotels and banks etc.
At 10.30 am, we reached Col de Pillon station, the starting station of Glacier 3000. There was big parking here in open. Many foreigners locals had also come to do skiing.
Jehangir purchased group tickets. He handed over 1 ticket plus one plastic google given by Glaciar 3000 to everyone.
The Cable car (made of glass) came. It can accommodate 125 persons at a time. It comes every 20 min.
At 10.55 am, our cable car started. It was 3 min journey. All stood and enjoyed panoramic view of snow clad mountains all around as we ascended. It as such a thrilling experience passing so close to the snow covered mountains in the luxury of a covered glass cable car with maintained temperature. Then we changed cable car at Cabane Station at 2525 mtr altitude, which took us to Glacier 3000 in another 3-4 min.
We all gathered at Glaciar 3000. This is a glacier. It is famous for skiing.
Then we descended down by open cable chair car (called Ice Express) to open glacier in 2 min. Only 2 persons can sit per chair car (ropeway). It is a treat to the eyes. We were surrounded by white snow covered mountains all around. So many foreigners including kids were doing skiing. We took snaps, once we reached the glacier. We roamed around on the glacier in the Snow bus (included in our package). I and Meenu did sledge ride driven by dogs (charged 30E per person). It was a bright sunny day. Unfortunately, Alpine Coaster was not working due to snow lying on its track (it operate in summers).
At 12.30 pm, we again boarded the open cable chair car and came up. We came to the main building and took lift to the 3rdfloor. From 3rd flr, we went out to View Point and walked on the suspended steel bridge (Peak walk) on to highest point / peak. There was space for around 25 persons to stand on the small peak top wherein Tissot had put up a big replica of its watch, which was displaying the altitude as 2971 mtr, where people were getting themselves clicked. Fresh snow was lying there. There was a big Swiss flag put up in the center of the peak top. It was breathtaking walking on the suspended bridge.
We took Lunch in the restaurant at the 3rd floor (included in package). Food was not so good.
At 1.30 pm, the cable car started descent from Glacier 3000. 5 min journey. We changed cable car at Cabane. Then, after another 3 min journey, we reached Col the Pilon station of cable car (starting station). We boarded our bus waiting there.
We 41 persons decided to visit Geneva. Jehangir, after speaking to Driver, charged E45 per person for the same. But 2 persons did not agree, so he arranged taxi for them for E400 back to hotel and we all contributed.
At 1.55 pm, our bus started.
We passed through Montreux, passed by Chillong castle, Lake Lemon which becomes lake Geneva when it enters Geneva. Beautiful roads and tunnels, splendid scenery on the way.
At 3.50 pm, we reached Geneva. Lake Geneva is 98 km long. We roamed around the Lake (which also had Boat Cruises). Saw the famous Floral Clock. Unfortunately, the fountain which goes up to 400 ft was not working. We strolled. Went to Mont Blanc showroom. We could spot Electric buses here like in Lucerne.
At 5.15 pm, our bus started. After 10 min run, we got down near the famous Broken Chair and UN Hqrs. (They both are opposite each other, separated by just the road). We took snaps there. There was statue of Mahatma Gandhiji in nearby park. It was getting dark.
At 6.05 pm, our Bus started from Geneva for our Lowen Hotel in Lungen.
After a three hour journey, we reached back Hotel Lowen, Lungen at 9.25 pm. Took dinner in the dining room. I walked out for 10 min. Came back to room. Read next day itinerary.
2.11.2017 Thursday Switzerland to Vaduz (Liechtenstein) to Innsbruck (Austria)
At 6.15 am, I woke up. We packed the luggage. Took Bath and got ready.
At 7 to 8 am, we all finished with the Breakfast (Idli sambhar, Corn flakes, toast butter jam masala tea. Curd). I said good bye to the hotel owner Tushar Shah (from Kutch Gujarat).
At 8.30 am, we started from our Hotel.
After a two hour journey, at 10.30 am, we reached Vaduz, the capital of a tiny country called Liechtenstein, which is famous for banks. It has become a popular tax haven for stashing unaccounted money after the Swiss banks have become strict in recent times.
Here, one can take a tour of the city by riding a small toy like train / tram ) (3-4 coaches / bogeys), very narrow sized. It is run by a company called Citytrain Tours. The road vehicle is called Dotto Trains. Tickets cost SF8/ 6.70Euro per person. We had reached early and train counter had not yet opened. We went to the toilet nearby. The Toilets have barriers inside which open on inserting 1E or 1SF coin ! But few passengers managed to dodge the barrier.
After waiting for some time, the person running the train came. He gave tickets. He then closed the counter and dubbed as driver for the train !
At 10.54 am, the Dotto Train started on the road. We got down at 3-4 places for taking photos. The driver was a funny guy and knew a little Hindi also. He explained at each point, and thus dubbed as a guide also ! He passed through certain monuments, castle, church.
At 11.30 am, the train tram journey ended. We strolled, did Shopping. All branded showrooms were here. Watches showrooms were in plenty. Anybody could get the Passport stamped at any souvenir shop for 3SF or 3Euro per person. We got done stamping on our passports, as an acknowledgement of the fact that we had visited this country.
At 12.05 pm, our bus started. (2 persons were left behind. They later came to lunch point).
At 12.10 pm, we stopped at Schlossle Restaurant in Leichtenstein for lunch. Indian buffet lunch was ready for us. Good food. Nan. Ice cream cup, in dessert.
At 12.53 pm, our bus started for Wattens in Austria. Our journey through well lit Tunnels continued here also.
At 1.09 pm, we exited Lecheinstein border and then entered Austria. The 1st town we encountered on entering Austria was Felkash.
At 11.30 am, the train tram journey ended. We strolled, did Shopping. All branded showrooms were here. Watches showrooms were in plenty. Anybody could get the Passport stamped at any souvenir shop for 3SF or 3Euro per person. We got done stamping on our passports, as an acknowledgement of the fact that we had visited this country.
At 12.05 pm, our bus started. (2 persons were left behind. They later came to lunch point).
At 12.10 pm, we stopped at Schlossle Restaurant in Leichtenstein for lunch. Indian buffet lunch was ready for us. Good food. Nan. Ice cream cup, in dessert.
At 12.53 pm, our bus started for Wattens in Austria. Our journey through well lit Tunnels continued here also.
At 1.09 pm, we exited Lecheinstein border and then entered Austria. The 1st town we encountered on entering Austria was Felkash.
I noticed that the power transmission towers are in green color here. On power lines, orange colored balls are put at regular intervals. These are to ensure that these high voltage lines are visible to aeroplanes and helicopters to avoid accidents during winter or snow or dark.
The highways throughout these countries we travelled were very good.
At 1.48 pm, the driver stopped for 5 min at a gas station and got filled diesel.
At 2.03 pm, we entered Arlberg Tunnel which is about 14 km long : Europe’s 3rd longest tunnel. Maximum weight allowed per vehicle is 3.5 Tonne only. At 2.13 pm, we came out of the tunnel.
It was very pleasing to see that no car or vehicle was blowing horn, come what may. It seems that horn does not exist in vehicles in these countries ! It was also a noticeable fact that within the tunnels, the vehicle is cruising comfortably at about 100kmph.
At 3.30 pm, we reached Wattens in Austria. The famous gems and crystals company Swarovski has its Head showroom/store here. It is the biggest showroom of Swarovski in the world, we were told. It was a very big campus, surrounded by mountains and open areas. Here, one can take GST refund on bill above Euro 70. There is small gift on purchases above 20 Euro. We purchased a necklace for E29. We roamed around in the campus. Beautiful view. A man’s face figure on the grass wall with eyes sparkling with light and waterfall coming out of mouth. There was also a souveneir shop.
At 5.00 pm, we started from Swarovski showroom, Wattens. The Temperature was 11 degree Celsius.
At 1.48 pm, the driver stopped for 5 min at a gas station and got filled diesel.
At 2.03 pm, we entered Arlberg Tunnel which is about 14 km long : Europe’s 3rd longest tunnel. Maximum weight allowed per vehicle is 3.5 Tonne only. At 2.13 pm, we came out of the tunnel.
It was very pleasing to see that no car or vehicle was blowing horn, come what may. It seems that horn does not exist in vehicles in these countries ! It was also a noticeable fact that within the tunnels, the vehicle is cruising comfortably at about 100kmph.
At 3.30 pm, we reached Wattens in Austria. The famous gems and crystals company Swarovski has its Head showroom/store here. It is the biggest showroom of Swarovski in the world, we were told. It was a very big campus, surrounded by mountains and open areas. Here, one can take GST refund on bill above Euro 70. There is small gift on purchases above 20 Euro. We purchased a necklace for E29. We roamed around in the campus. Beautiful view. A man’s face figure on the grass wall with eyes sparkling with light and waterfall coming out of mouth. There was also a souveneir shop.
At 5.00 pm, we started from Swarovski showroom, Wattens. The Temperature was 11 degree Celsius.
At 5.25 pm, we reached Innsbruck city (means ‘A bridge built on River Inn’). We walked by River Inns and reached Golden Roof, an ancient building, in the city of Innsbruck. From here, all roamed for half hour to gather again at 6 pm. We did shopping in a supermarket.
At 6.15 pm, Jehangir took us all on a orientation trip / walk around. We saw the building where music legend Mozart had lived for some years. We then passed by St. Jakob church/Dome. The entire area comprises of streets with shops and people walking well dressed and even some people selling by roadside outside the shops. Walked through streets. Passed by Hofburg museum having chair of erstwhile king Maxmillan. It is part of Imperial palace. These were all closed. Passed by Landestheatre.
Then walked to the parking slot and boarded our bus parked there.
At 6.35 pm, we started from Innsbruck city.
At 7.10 pm, we reached Hotel Alpenkonig Tirol in Seefeld in Tirol region of Innsbruck. We were allotted Rooms 301 and 302. These were Good rooms. It was a 4 star hotel. This was the best hotel of all the hotels we stayed during this trip. Took dinner in the hotel 8 to 9 pm.
At 6.15 pm, Jehangir took us all on a orientation trip / walk around. We saw the building where music legend Mozart had lived for some years. We then passed by St. Jakob church/Dome. The entire area comprises of streets with shops and people walking well dressed and even some people selling by roadside outside the shops. Walked through streets. Passed by Hofburg museum having chair of erstwhile king Maxmillan. It is part of Imperial palace. These were all closed. Passed by Landestheatre.
Then walked to the parking slot and boarded our bus parked there.
At 6.35 pm, we started from Innsbruck city.
At 7.10 pm, we reached Hotel Alpenkonig Tirol in Seefeld in Tirol region of Innsbruck. We were allotted Rooms 301 and 302. These were Good rooms. It was a 4 star hotel. This was the best hotel of all the hotels we stayed during this trip. Took dinner in the hotel 8 to 9 pm.
3.11.2017 Friday : Innsbruck (Austria) to Munich (Germany)
At 6.15 am, I got up and then went for a walk around the hotel. The hotel was uphill. It was like a resort. From 8 to 9 am, we took Breakfast.
At 6.15 am, I got up and then went for a walk around the hotel. The hotel was uphill. It was like a resort. From 8 to 9 am, we took Breakfast.
Today was our last day in Europe.
At 10.15 am, our Bus started from Hotel Alpenkonig Tirol, Innsbruck. Within a few minutes, 10.35 am to be precise, we entered Germany. Germany is the strongest economy. Main industries are Automobiles, machineries. Auto bhan is an expression used for the high speed Highways. ‘Munchen’ means Munich.
At 11.35 am, we got down at a Gas station in Germany for 10 min for toilet. The store lady charged Euro 1.5 per person for using toilet ! (it was surprising and a bit shocking)
At 12, we entered Munich. At 12.40 pm, we reached Munich airport. 14 persons got down for journey back to India.
At 1.00 pm, we 33 persons went for city tour of Munich (by paying Euro 35 per person to the driver of our bus).
At 10.15 am, our Bus started from Hotel Alpenkonig Tirol, Innsbruck. Within a few minutes, 10.35 am to be precise, we entered Germany. Germany is the strongest economy. Main industries are Automobiles, machineries. Auto bhan is an expression used for the high speed Highways. ‘Munchen’ means Munich.
At 11.35 am, we got down at a Gas station in Germany for 10 min for toilet. The store lady charged Euro 1.5 per person for using toilet ! (it was surprising and a bit shocking)
At 12, we entered Munich. At 12.40 pm, we reached Munich airport. 14 persons got down for journey back to India.
At 1.00 pm, we 33 persons went for city tour of Munich (by paying Euro 35 per person to the driver of our bus).
At 1.34 pm, we got down at BMW Museum. This is the biggest museum of BMW in the world. The entry fee is Euro 9 per person. It was a nostalgic walk and visit through this museum. It showcased all BMW vehicles (cars, bikes, engines, etc.) from the oldest to the latest, including the BMW cars used in James Bond movies. The vehicles were housed on various levels/ floors.
After coming out of the museum, we took medium thin crust veg pizza at Pizza Hut nearby for Euro 12.4 take away (as we were getting late).
At 3.20 pm, our Bus started.
At 3.45 pm, we got down at Joseph Square and walked to Marien Platz area (pronounced as Mariam plaas). This place had old ancient structures blended with most modern markets and shops around. There was a Metro station here with the same name. I am of the view that this is the most fashionable and happening place in whole of Europe. People with latest fashion were going here and there, sipping coffee in open restaurants. It was a treat to the eyes.
At 4.55 pm, we started from Joseph square.
At 5.15 pm, we reached Allianze Arena - the Football stadium owned by Munich's number one football team MC MYNE. The charges for 1 hr tour are E19 per person. We missed it as last arena tour started at 4.45 pm. In the tour, they show the Pitch, dressing room, models of cars of players (2 fellow travelers came directly here from BMW Museum by taking taxi for E22 and took the stadium arena tour). Some bought souvenirs from the souvenir shop in the stadium.
At 5.55 pm, we started from the football stadium after picking those 2 passengers.
At 3.20 pm, our Bus started.
At 3.45 pm, we got down at Joseph Square and walked to Marien Platz area (pronounced as Mariam plaas). This place had old ancient structures blended with most modern markets and shops around. There was a Metro station here with the same name. I am of the view that this is the most fashionable and happening place in whole of Europe. People with latest fashion were going here and there, sipping coffee in open restaurants. It was a treat to the eyes.
At 4.55 pm, we started from Joseph square.
At 5.15 pm, we reached Allianze Arena - the Football stadium owned by Munich's number one football team MC MYNE. The charges for 1 hr tour are E19 per person. We missed it as last arena tour started at 4.45 pm. In the tour, they show the Pitch, dressing room, models of cars of players (2 fellow travelers came directly here from BMW Museum by taking taxi for E22 and took the stadium arena tour). Some bought souvenirs from the souvenir shop in the stadium.
At 5.55 pm, we started from the football stadium after picking those 2 passengers.
At 6.25 pm, we reached Munich airport. Said goodbye to our tour manager Jehangir who was our constant companion for last 6 days.
In the airport, we went downstairs for Etihad Airway counters as displayed on screen.
We Checked in within 20 min and were issued Boarding passes for both flights !
Thereafter we came out of airport building in the open arena, within the airport complex. Many shops, restaurants incl McD were there. New version of XBox was launched at 7 pm here, which was telecast live worldwide. We witnessed the same.
We then went inside for the security check. We passed through scanners for security check. All belongings like belt, purse, hanky, phone, sling bag etc were required to be put in the basket for security check. We were on 4th flr. Entered arena. Took cheese pizza. This was duty free area. We bought Chocolates from a store there by showing boarding pass (purchased via forex card for E11.40).
We then cleared the Immigration ( called 'Customs Control' here) on 5th flr. Reached Duty free area. Walked to Gate H32 for our flight. Waited.
At 9.15 pm, we entered the aeroplane. It was big plane with seat arrangement as 3×4×3.
At 9.40 pm, the Etihad flight took off from Munich.
4.11.2017 Saturday : Abu Dhabi to Delhi
We Checked in within 20 min and were issued Boarding passes for both flights !
Thereafter we came out of airport building in the open arena, within the airport complex. Many shops, restaurants incl McD were there. New version of XBox was launched at 7 pm here, which was telecast live worldwide. We witnessed the same.
We then went inside for the security check. We passed through scanners for security check. All belongings like belt, purse, hanky, phone, sling bag etc were required to be put in the basket for security check. We were on 4th flr. Entered arena. Took cheese pizza. This was duty free area. We bought Chocolates from a store there by showing boarding pass (purchased via forex card for E11.40).
We then cleared the Immigration ( called 'Customs Control' here) on 5th flr. Reached Duty free area. Walked to Gate H32 for our flight. Waited.
At 9.15 pm, we entered the aeroplane. It was big plane with seat arrangement as 3×4×3.
At 9.40 pm, the Etihad flight took off from Munich.
4.11.2017 Saturday : Abu Dhabi to Delhi
At 3.15 am European time (6.15 am Abu Dhabi time), we landed at Abu Dhabi airport. (The Flying duration was 5 Hr 20 min, 5022 km).
We cleared the security and then stood in queues for about 30 min. No immigration required. Our luggage already with the airline.
We were getting sleepy, restless and wanted to use some good washroom facility. We were also feeling hungry. I tried for getting access to the airport lounge but I did not have any diners card etc. Some passengers having such card got the access per card. Etihad provides access to its lounge only if it is so marked by the airline while booking tickets. I tried other lounges but they were on chargeable basis (30 dollar for 3 hr. ?). We sat on leisure chairs and sofas in the passage way (Etihad library/reading arena). I then got to know and got issued Meal vouchers from Etihad Flight Transfer help desk. This entitles to meal at any outlet/restaurant in the airport for free. (Limit is I think 30AED per boarding pass. However McDonald said it will provide foodstuff valuing upto 22AED only against this voucher).
We used washroom near the Muslim prayer room downstairs (The tooth brush and paste given by Etihad during Munich-Abu dhabi flight came in very handy, as our belongings were packed in our luggage lying in airline custody). Drank water from the drinking water tap provided outside this washroom. We then strolled. Took veg burger + french fries + coke + small cone icecream against each meal voucher from McD. We slept/rested on long chairs to idle away the time as our connecting flight to India was after a long gap. (It was a long Lay Over of abt 8 hours at Abu Dhabi airport)
We cleared the security and then stood in queues for about 30 min. No immigration required. Our luggage already with the airline.
We were getting sleepy, restless and wanted to use some good washroom facility. We were also feeling hungry. I tried for getting access to the airport lounge but I did not have any diners card etc. Some passengers having such card got the access per card. Etihad provides access to its lounge only if it is so marked by the airline while booking tickets. I tried other lounges but they were on chargeable basis (30 dollar for 3 hr. ?). We sat on leisure chairs and sofas in the passage way (Etihad library/reading arena). I then got to know and got issued Meal vouchers from Etihad Flight Transfer help desk. This entitles to meal at any outlet/restaurant in the airport for free. (Limit is I think 30AED per boarding pass. However McDonald said it will provide foodstuff valuing upto 22AED only against this voucher).
We used washroom near the Muslim prayer room downstairs (The tooth brush and paste given by Etihad during Munich-Abu dhabi flight came in very handy, as our belongings were packed in our luggage lying in airline custody). Drank water from the drinking water tap provided outside this washroom. We then strolled. Took veg burger + french fries + coke + small cone icecream against each meal voucher from McD. We slept/rested on long chairs to idle away the time as our connecting flight to India was after a long gap. (It was a long Lay Over of abt 8 hours at Abu Dhabi airport)
At 1.30 pm, we reached near Gate no.32 and sat there as our flight's boarding is from this gate.
At 2 pm, the boarding from Gate 32 started. Flights Scheduled time of departure is 2.40 pm.
It is comparatively smaller plane with seat arrangement of 3×3.
At 2.45 pm, our flight took off from Abu Dhabi.
At 2 pm, the boarding from Gate 32 started. Flights Scheduled time of departure is 2.40 pm.
It is comparatively smaller plane with seat arrangement of 3×3.
At 2.45 pm, our flight took off from Abu Dhabi.
At 7.00 pm (Indian time), our flight landed at Delhi International Airport (Terminal T-3). We cleared the Immigration and made purchase from Duty Free shops. Then picked luggage from the conveyer belt. Too Uber SUV cab and reached home at 9.15 pm.
Thus, another memorable trip came to an end.
