DU Abroad

While studying abroad in Italy, I never imagined saying these three words: I missed snow. But how could I say no to Switzerland, which is so close to Milan? I packed my bags and left for the land of chocolate, watches, and beautiful winter scenery this past weekend. As a spoiler, it was fantastic.

Zurich, my whirlwind itinerary

Zurich, a city that is equal parts stylish and homey, is where I began filled with such a kind and social atmosphere of locals. I couldn’t help but be amazed by the festive atmosphere and sparkling holiday lights as I strolled down Bahnhofstrasse. The Old Town Christmas Market (Altstadt) followed, and the aroma of roasted chestnuts and mulled wine was just too good to ignore. I took a moment to appreciate the serene beauty while strolling around Lake Zurich that you shockingly have to take a train for.

Lucerne

The next stop was Lucerne, a charming town straight out of a fairy tale. I had much too much fun visiting Gameorama, a strange little museum devoted to games, and explored the intriguing Glacier Garden, which was full of Ice Age tales and a mirror maze with a breath taking statue of a wounded lion which signifies the fallen soldiers who fought during the revolution. Then I followed that up with crossing the famous Chapel Bridge (Kapellbrücke), to which a visit to Lucerne would obviously not be complete. The experience was akin to entering a postcard.

Basel

Basel, where the night market came alive with colorful stalls and delectable delights, was where I concluded my journey. The city’s bustling atmosphere and historic architecture gave it a certain appeal. Additionally, I couldn’t help but stop by Fundoo for a warm meal that made me feel better from the inside out.

By now I am sure you can all gather the fact that Switzerland surpassed all expectations and that this weekend felt like a real winter wonderland because of the snow up in the mountains. This experience taught me that there is so much to discover just outside of our comfort zones, whether it was enjoying seasonal delights at the markets, traversing old bridges, or just taking in the alpine splendor. All in all, don’t pass up the opportunity to take in the enchantment of Switzerland while you’re in Milan or the surrounding area.

Ciao!

Every year, I look forward to Thanksgiving. I time where my family comes together and has an amazing meal, while talking about anything and everything. Baking and preparing the food, playing games, and laughter fills our household with joy and warmth. Every year, we go up to my grandmother’s house, in the mountains, run the Turkey-trot and then come home for a late lunch of traditional Thanksgiving food, (the apple pie is a classic that I prepare every year.) It’s a time of happiness and quality family time. I never thought I would be this sad on Thanksgiving though.

I’m missing home now more than ever, as my family gets together, while I’m halfway across the world. Today, I went to class like normal, which was a weird feeling, knowing my friends and family are gathering. Of course, the students around me carried on like it was a normal day, because to them, it is. It was a weird feeling going to class like any other day, but knowing and feeling like I should be home with my family. I can hardly describe it accurately. It was just a missing piece, a separation, and/or an empty feeling in one way or another.

While, I did FaceTime my family, and caught up with them; getting to know what they’ve been doing, what food they were preparing, and trading some jokes, it wasn’t the same. I long to see them in person, and hug them again. Seeing them virtually is definitely not the same as in-person, even if I did see them in a way. I miss seeing my dog, playing board games, remembering cherished memories, and squabbling about who sets the table. I miss making the apple pie, and running the turkey-trot (even though I hate running), and I miss just coming together with my whole family, for some uninterrupted family time, where I can appreciate the people around me.

While, I have been missing my family before today, and missing the familiarity, it’s different on a holiday. Its seems I miss them more, and miss the action of coming together as well. Truly, Christmas and Thanksgiving are the only times where we coming together like this, and It’s sad knowing I am missing one of these times. However, I hang onto the fact that I will see them in 20 days! I can’t wait to hug them, as they come to England to see it in winter, and show them around.

While I’m sad to be apart from my family today, I have to remember that I will see them soon! The time will fly by, and before I know it, I will be back in my family’s embrace. So maybe it is a very Thanksgiving day, because I am reminded how thankful I am for my friends, family, and the people around me that I hold dear.

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Swiss Getaway: Seasonal Markets and Charm

a not so Thanksgiving day