It all started with an adventure when I was in a magnificent part of Bavaria, Southern Germany, called Lindau (Bodensee). I actually used Couchsurfing for the one and only time in my life. The sweetest man who hosted me through Couchsurfing told me it would help ease a lot of my expenses at that time. Even though I was nervous to couchsurf with someone, I ended up making a friend, experiencing the country from a local’s perspective, and sharing some really good laughs, food, and life perspectives. (Thank you, David.) Super respectful, generous, and truly made me feel so welcomed. I’m glad I used discernment, shared my location, and let people I trust know I loved what I was doing.
I also booked my own Airbnb to have a little space and found something affordable. This scenic town was quite expensive, and many places were already booked. Here’s the link… it was super quiet and simple:
Airbnb link
While I was there, I used a car ride share recommended by a local called “BlaBlaCar.” In that car, I met another solo German girl who convinced me to stop at Street Parade in Zurich, one of the largest techno and electronic dance music festivals in the world. INSAAAAANE and I’m so glad I went. I was super sober and tired, but I’m glad I said yes. After the festival, I continued on my journey to Lucerne, eventually taking a scenic train ride, and a couple of bus stops later I ARRIVED late at night with my backpack.
Switzerland is one of those places that truly felt like a dream come true. I could honestly see myself spending more time there. I would love to do a solo backpacking trip in the mountains and take it all in, and also share that with someone special or a special group of friends who would soak in all the glory this country has to offer. Planting seeds for this in the future! BUCKETLIST
It’s clean, pristine, the metro is easy to navigate, and everyone rides bikes. I got to meet up with a friend I connected with during my yoga teacher training back in 2018 in Bali, and she’s from Switzerland. She welcomed me with so much sweetness and hospitality, even letting me stay in her flat before she returned from her own vacation (as the Europeans say). She is truly an angel, and I got to experience her country through her heart, generosity, and from a local’s perspective. (Please come to Hawaii)
She showed me the best chocolates and cheese and recommended places for me to visit while she was working. I had this moment on top of Mt. Pilatus by myself, tears of happy joy as I experienced such wonder, beauty, and awe alone. I was so content taking in all the panoramic views. My inner child was just so happy that I wasn’t afraid to be there by myself, it actually felt like the biggest gift of play and wonder.
Some strangers offered to take my photos, and I gladly accepted. It was also my first time using a gondola! Another one of my favorite things about Switzerland is the fresh water fountains …ugh, talk about clean, crisp water and air. Even the tap water meets incredibly high-quality standards. Next level.
EVERYTHING IS BEAUTIFUL!
I saw the cutest cows, castles and , the hiking is literally what I would describe as heaven … NARNIA. The lakes were so fun to swim in, and everyone just goes to sunbathe at the parks, especially in August when I was visiting.
Klingenstock–Fronalpstock Ridge was another Swiss Alps mountain region I got to hike with my friend, and I can hands down say it’s one of the most gorgeous hikes I’ve ever experienced in my life.
I can’t wait to go back and explore more of this incredible country.
I got really lucky being hosted in this lush country, but it’s worth every penny.
Also… one night we went out to a bar for some drinks …just a really local, small spot and the bartender turned out to be someone I went to high school with from San Diego, California! He had married a Swiss girl, and it just felt like pure kismet.
