March 2020 marked the beginning of a whole new era for the world. Everything got turned upside down in a matter of 2 weeks. Our life as we knew it until then just suddenly fell into a deep sleep that lasted 3 months. Slowly countries are coming back to life and with it a deep desire to reacquaint with our loved ones and life in general. It’s almost summer and we’re all bursting with energy and desire to experience things to the fullest. There’s an itch to move around and just have fun.
Who needs to fly when there’s so much beauty here?
I don’t think traveling as we knew it pre-COVID19 will exist, at least for a while as people will stick around to their own country or at the most drive to the neighboring borders. And all that this means is that we are now given the opportunity to deep dive into our own backyard and explore places we never even considered before. So much beauty right here!
As we’ve all started planning our holidays, here are my top favorite 3 hotels and regions to look into. Don’t worry, there are many more which I will share in future posts!
Zurich, where it all happens – Baur au Lac, Zurich
175 years and six generations later, Baur au Lac is still part of the big leagues of not only Zurich but Switzerland as a whole. It was interesting to spend the night there while I live literally 10 minutes away – that’s what we call a “Staycation”! Baur au Lac had been on my list for a while now and being able to explore and understand its history / philosophy from an “insider’s” perspective was very exciting.
Pavillon – relaxed fine dining
Before we move on to the nitty gritty of my experience, I’d like to salute and congratulate Chef Laurent Eperon for receiving his second Michelin Star. Laurent Eperon has re-interpreted French contemporary cuisine using seasonal fresh products that are only processed in a way that suits them best. To date, only 20 restaurants in Switzerland have received such honor.
His right hand and restaurant Manager Aurélien Blanc definitely livened up our evening, in many ways! As an award winning Sommelier, Aurélien beautifully paired our dishes with fitting wines. His talent allied with his fun personality made the evening that much sweeter.
And last but certainly not least, we got to spend an entire evening with Mr. Wilhelm Luxem, General Manager of Baur au Lac. His natural charm and kind disposition were a perfect complement to the overall positive experience.
Baur’s, The new “European Brasserie”
The hot spot of Zurich! Andrea Kracht, sixth-generation owner of the Baur au Lac with New York-based Martin Brudnitzki Design Studio and London-based Gorgeous Group have created a modern, chic and comfortable space for guests to mingle and relax.
Giardino, Italian flair with the Swiss precision
Daniela and Philippe Frutiger, owners of the Giardino group, are in my opinion true visionaries whose signature style runs through every detail of each hotels. The Giardino brand screams loud and clear and in the same time it leaves room for all kids to claim their own personality and unique style.
Every turn was a delight and a surprise – terraces everywhere, water features (huge pond and a big oudoors pool), fish, lavish garden of lavendar, lemons, olive trees and a golf course. The property kept on giving and giving!
The drive to the hotel was magnificent. We took a new road and discovered areas we had never known about. Pure beauty.
The moment we parked our car and walked into the hotel, it was like we had entered a whole new universe. Before getting to the specifics, I have to point out the friendliness of the staff. One nicer than the other. You can tell they take pride in what they do and have only the guests’ well-being in mind. So important these days where everyone is more connected than ever but so lonely at the same time.
What really struck me most was the fragrance I kept smelling, especially when outside in the garden. Not sure if it came from the lemon trees or the water lilies. Regardless, it smelled really good!
Interlaken, one of the oldest resort in Switzerland – Victoria Jungfrau
Interlaken, the city “between the lakes” and cradled by the mountains Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau offers one of the most picturesque landscape in the world. In all honesty, Interlake itself is not my favorite but having said that its backdrop is undeniably breath-taking. And what makes it unique is its versatility – a destination both for summer and winter.
Time has gone by since my weekend at the Victoria Jungfrau Hotel & Spa and I’m still rejoicing in the memories I created there, not to mention still ripping the benefits of all the knowledge I acquired. Three full days at the Victoria Jungfrau Hotel & Spa I imagine would be the equivalent of at least three months of regular training with trainers and therapists!
Stay tuned for more amazing hotels!
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