https://hobonotes.com/2012/05/03/59-the-perils-of-politeness/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/2012-05-03-canal-0121.jpg2012 05 03 canal 012https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/2012-05-03-canal-002.jpg2012 05 03 canal 002https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/2012-05-03-canal-012-e1336051009585.jpg2012 05 03 canal 0122018-06-07T23:53:43+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/taxes/2013-04-12T15:46:49+00:00weekly0.6https://hobonotes.com/2013/02/04/after-switzerland/2013-04-10T17:20:23+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2012/06/28/2-swiss-surprise/2013-02-05T18:05:29+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/postcards-from-switzerland/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/2011-10-29-river-gorge-walk-007-e1344096049881.jpg2011 10 29 River gorge walk 007Jo Hatherly near Frinvillier, Switzerland.https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/2011-11-28-xmas-lights-biel-001-e1322508094891.jpgChristmas in SwitzerlandOur town square with its lit Christmas tree.2012-08-04T16:03:35+00:00weekly0.6https://hobonotes.com/2012/06/29/1-so-long/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/2012-06-29-gupta-mehra-biel-hotel-room-003-e1340957910193.jpg2012 06 29 gupta mehra biel hotel room 003Packing is a science. 2012-07-01T20:38:30+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2012/06/27/3-parting-is-such-sweet-sorrow-or-tschues/2012-06-27T21:11:00+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2011/11/23/my-new-prescrip/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/2012-06-21-biel-alstadt-035-e1340798089146.jpg2012 06 21 biel alstadt 035Venner Well: A Swiss warrior statue in Biel's old town that embarrassed its makers by breaking off at both legs when being set up and then suffering follow-up breakages during stormy weather. The well dates back to the 1400s; the stone statue may date back to the mid-1500s, but the translated records were not clear on that point. It could be older. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/2012-06-19-lamborghini-and-biel-beach-001-e1340797052635.jpg2012 06 19 lamborghini and biel beach 001Switzerland the lovable.https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/2012-06-21-biel-alstadt-002-e1340796575370.jpg2012 06 21 biel alstadt 002Happy to be headed home, but a little sad to leave the land of castle ramparts and lovely, friendly people. 2012-06-27T14:58:19+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2012/06/26/4-four-more-and-tug-of-war/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/326145_10151100501715532_640720531_22241053_1767299550_o-e1340696060648.jpg326145_10151100501715532_640720531_22241053_1767299550_oThis is how I feel when I visit our Swiss bank: As though we are being pushed over a cliff. 2012-06-27T10:20:42+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2012/06/25/5-a-few-photos/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/2012-06-21-biel-old-town-and-juras-004-e1340606296613.jpg2012 06 21 biel old town and juras 004https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/2012-06-21-biel-alstadt-021-e1340605797786.jpg2012 06 21 biel alstadt 021https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/2012-06-23-biel-music-and-rude-waitress-004-e1340604970475.jpg2012 06 23 biel music and rude waitress 004https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/2012-06-23-biel-music-and-rude-waitress-0011-e1340603618190.jpg2012 06 23 biel music and rude waitress 001The Swiss are proud of their pasture-raised beef and claim it tastes better than North American beef. I don't know about that, but I know the beef I buy in the stores tastes nothing like the beef back home, so to get a little homecooked flavor I buy a McDonalds hamburger (yes, we have McDonalds here), bring it home and top it with more tomatoes and avocados. 2012-06-25T06:42:50+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2012/06/24/6-keeping-tradition-alive-or-our-last-visit-with-the-worst-waitress-in-the-world/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/2012-06-23-biel-music-and-rude-waitress-005.jpg2012 06 23 biel music and rude waitress 005Dave taking a nap while waiting for our bill. Will we ever see our wretched waitress again?https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/2012-06-23-biel-music-and-rude-waitress-006-e1340525319992.jpg2012 06 23 biel music and rude waitress 006Our waitress (white top) flees into the restaurant after I wave her over. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/2012-06-23-biel-music-and-rude-waitress-007.jpg2012 06 23 biel music and rude waitress 007Dave, at about 20 minutes after we had finished eating and were still waiting for the bill.https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/2012-06-23-biel-music-and-rude-waitress-001-e1340522473788.jpg2012 06 23 biel music and rude waitress 001The only person I've met in 32 years who does not like Dave. 2012-06-24T14:18:43+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2012/06/23/7-snarl/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/2011-10-30-bern-starbucks-and-nano-001.jpg2011-10-30-bern-starbucks-and-nano-001.jpgA dog snoozes at his owner's feet, happy inside a Starbucks restaurant. 2012-06-23T06:59:56+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2012/06/22/8-the-fate-of-literature/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/2012-06-21-biel-old-town-and-juras-034-e1340360876943.jpg2012 06 21 biel old town and juras 034Good-bye little books. See you sometime this summer, way across the ocean.2021-05-15T02:59:35+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2012/06/21/9-tongue-tied-thursday-more-of-biels-medieval-quarter/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/2012-06-21-biel-old-town-and-juras-026.jpg2012 06 21 biel old town and juras 026https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/2012-06-21-biel-old-town-and-juras-014-e1340265232230.jpg2012 06 21 biel old town and juras 014Rooflines in Biel/Bienne's Alstadt2012-06-21T13:49:48+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2012/06/20/10-our-last-double-digit-day-2/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/2012-06-19-lamborghini-and-biel-beach-001-e1340193396145.jpg2012 06 19 lamborghini and biel beach 001Schlossmuseum in Nidau2012-06-20T13:31:42+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2012/06/16/10-our-last-double-digit-day/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/2012-06-19-lamborghini-and-biel-beach-012-e1340177143141.jpg2012 06 19 lamborghini and biel beach 012You don't expect Switzerland to have a summer-resort aspect to it, but it does. We could bring a box of sand back as a souvenir instead of skiis, but then no one would really believe it was from Switzerland, the land of snowy alps. 2012-06-20T11:52:45+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2012/06/19/11-plane-panic/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/2012-06-16-biel-jura-trail-swans-017-e1340095807905.jpg2012 06 16 biel jura trail swans 017The air, way up there, gives me a scare. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/2012-06-16-biel-jura-trail-swans-051-e1340094385849.jpg2012 06 16 biel jura trail swans 051See how this Swiss snail clings to the surface? That is me and mother earth. I do not like to leave the ground. 2012-06-19T08:56:05+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2012/06/18/12-swiss-parenting-style/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/2012-06-16-biel-jura-trail-swans-060-e1340023576966.jpg2012 06 16 biel jura trail swans 060Even these swans know to keep their young within grabbing reach. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/2012-06-16-biel-jura-trail-swans-004-e1340022819828.jpg2012 06 16 biel jura trail swans 004The scene where moments earlier, we almost participated in a group heart attack. 2012-08-01T02:53:17+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2012/06/17/13-winnipeg-wherever/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/2012-06-16-biel-jura-trail-swans-024-e1339923908487.jpg2012 06 16 biel jura trail swans 024Run into a Dane who enlisted with the German army and was stationed in Winnipeg, while we were riding with 20 people in a small rail car up the Jura Mountains in a tiny Swiss town of 70,000? Of course we would. 2012-06-18T12:11:35+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2012/06/16/14-swiss-sunshine-a-hike-through-the-jura-mountains/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/2012-06-16-biel-jura-trail-swans-062.jpg2012 06 16 biel jura trail swans 062The view looking back from our table at a Joral's waterfront restaurant. That white dot you see near the top of the mountain is the start-spot for our hike. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/2012-06-16-biel-jura-trail-swans-027-e1339862638543.jpg2012 06 16 biel jura trail swans 027This part of the trail was not so bad, but it is still steeper than it looks.https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/2012-06-16-biel-jura-trail-swans-029-e1339862436107.jpg2012 06 16 biel jura trail swans 029It's steeper than it looks. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/2012-06-16-biel-jura-trail-swans-025-e1339862176519.jpg2012 06 16 biel jura trail swans 025Okay, most roads lead to Biel/Bienne. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/2012-06-16-biel-jura-trail-swans-003-e1339861836630.jpg2012 06 16 biel jura trail swans 003BIEL Alstadt: The sun is out in Switzerland again after a very cool and wet spring.https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/2012-06-16-biel-jura-trail-swans-028-e1339861695935.jpg2012 06 16 biel jura trail swans 0282012-06-16T18:52:48+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2012/06/15/15-cherries-on-top/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/2012-06-14-daniella-biel-and-cherries-004-e1339736284674.jpg2012 06 14 daniella biel and cherries 004Biel/Bienne cherries. Mmm good.2012-06-15T18:53:51+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2012/06/14/16-the-principals-office-for-grown-ups/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/2012-06-10-bern-smokers-049-e1339689543794.jpg2012 06 10 bern + smokers 049Bureacracy is a bear. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/2012-06-10-bern-smokers-020-e1339687558852.jpg2012 06 10 bern + smokers 020I suspect all gargoyles were modeled after people stuck in immigration waiting rooms. 2012-06-14T16:04:56+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2012/06/13/17-pick-a-language-any-language/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/2012-06-03-biel-lake-boats-beach-002.jpg2012 06 03 biel lake boats beach 002It doesn't matter where you are in the world, harbors full of sailboats are always pretty. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/2012-06-10-bern-smokers-014-e1339579152236.jpg2012 06 10 bern + smokers 014This rooftop garden in Bern is a good representation of my linguistic life - I can see the German/French/Italian-speakers and they can see me. We can even reach between the bars a little bit, but we cannot cross over completely. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/2012-06-10-bern-smokers-099-e1339578829953.jpg2012 06 10 bern + smokers 099I can't speak with the locals much, but I can still enjoy the view. This is overlooking Lake Murten from the village of Murten/Morat. 2012-06-17T21:41:19+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2012/06/12/18-the-lists/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/2012-06-10-bern-smokers-001-e1339486539175.jpg2012 06 10 bern + smokers 001Something else I don't like about Switzerland/Europe; A lax attitude toward refrigerated meats and eggs, not to mention warmer dairy cases than would ever pass muster in North America. I know the meats in this photo are cured, but that is not enough for me. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/2012-06-10-bern-smokers-007-e1339486374421.jpg2012 06 10 bern + smokers 007Switzerland's House of Parliament, centre of government in Bern. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/2012-06-08-biel-and-ducks-004-e1339486099574.jpg2012 06 08 biel and ducks 004Switzerland has reawakened my love of shutters. They are everywhere, they are beautiful. I want some. 2012-06-12T07:53:16+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2012/06/11/19-why-do-we-care-about-ducklings/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/2012-06-08-biel-and-ducks-002-e1339415024231.jpg2012 06 08 biel and ducks 002https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/2012-06-03-biel-lake-boats-beach-0041-e1339414801341.jpg2012 06 03 biel lake boats beach 004https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/2012-06-03-biel-lake-boats-beach-004-e1339413402624.jpg2012 06 03 biel lake boats beach 004Why do we care about ducklings? There are so many of them. And yet, we can't help but care. 2012-06-11T16:38:06+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2012/06/10/20-strolling-with-the-smokers/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/2012-06-10-bern-smokers-093.jpg2012 06 10 bern + smokers 093Bern's basement boutiques include barber shops and fancy clothing boutiques. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/2012-06-10-bern-smokers-092.jpg2012 06 10 bern + smokers 092https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/2012-06-10-bern-smokers-087.jpg2012 06 10 bern + smokers 087What goes on in Bern's underbelly? https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/2012-06-10-bern-smokers-086.jpg2012 06 10 bern + smokers 086We don't know what this is, but it was in one of the Bern basements we glimpsed in at off Marktgasse (Market Street). https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/2012-06-10-bern-smokers-082.jpg2012 06 10 bern + smokers 082This cellar door is named for the genius who worked in the patent office above it from 1902 to 1909. For some reason, an online biography says this office is located at Speichergasse and the Genfergasse, while the street we found it on was Marktgasse. It is possible the street was renamed, but we have no way of knowing for sure. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/2012-06-10-bern-smokers-079-e1339317611585.jpg2012 06 10 bern + smokers 079A typical Bern picture of the town clock tower. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/2012-06-10-bern-smokers-004-e1339316607754.jpg2012 06 10 bern + smokers 0042012-06-10T08:57:59+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2012/06/09/21-welfare-free-bikes-63-cheese-sandwich/2012-06-09T07:57:38+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2011/06/15/welfare-free-bikes-63-cheese-sandwich/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/2011-06-11-corgemont-biel-market-neuchatel-bike-117-e1308129968781.jpg2011 06 11 Corgemont, Biel market, Neuchatel bike 117Dave discovers Neuchatel's tourism office is closed!https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/2011-06-11-corgemont-biel-market-neuchatel-bike-087-e1308129776422.jpg2011 06 11 Corgemont, Biel market, Neuchatel bike 087A deconstructed $63 grilled cheese sandwich, also known as cheese fondue.https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/2011-06-11-corgemont-biel-market-neuchatel-bike-111-e1308129554318.jpg2011 06 11 Corgemont, Biel market, Neuchatel bike 111You see some crazy stuff riding along Swiss bike trails. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/2011-06-11-corgemont-biel-market-neuchatel-bike-077-e1308129340588.jpg2011 06 11 Corgemont, Biel market, Neuchatel bike 077Sabrina, our friendly free-bike-loaner agent. She looks normal. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/2011-06-11-corgemont-biel-market-neuchatel-bike-0751-e1308128751359.jpg2011 06 11 Corgemont, Biel market, Neuchatel bike 075Free bikes!2012-06-08T10:42:05+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2012/06/08/22-corral-your-corporate-crew/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/2012-05-21-st-ursanne-delemont-095-e1339148117998.jpg2012 05 21 st. ursanne & delemont 095This is not the entrance to our bank, but some days it feels it could be. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/black-bear-e1339147101796.jpgblack bearLife overseas can be a bear for a migrant worker, blue collar, white collar or otherwise.2012-06-08T14:45:38+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2012/06/07/23-no-money-money-money/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/2012-04-20-bagpipe-vid-and-biel-swans-011-e1339068419767.jpg2012 04 20 Bagpipe vid and biel swans 011When you live in a foreign country, even the simplest administrative task can make you feel as though you have to scale castle walls.2012-06-07T14:47:43+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2012/06/06/24-money-money-money/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/2012-05-29-biel-canal-018-e1338976426871.jpg2012 05 29 biel canal 018Sure the Swiss annoy us with their endless palms-up-give-us-some-more-money approach to life, but no one can deny that they have cool urban spaces. This row in our town's medieval district appears to house the drug-and-alcohol-addled, based on our observation while enjoying a coffee at a cafe across the street. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/2012-05-29-biel-canal-001-e1338975925876.jpg2012 05 29 biel canal 001Foil-wrapped potatoes anyone? 2012-06-06T15:23:11+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2012/06/05/30-29-28-27-26-25-some-shots-from-switzerland/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/2012-06-03-biel-lake-boats-beach-008.jpg2012 06 03 biel lake boats beach 008https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/2012-06-03-biel-lake-boats-beach-006.jpg2012 06 03 biel lake boats beach 006https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/2012-06-03-biel-lake-boats-beach-005.jpg2012 06 03 biel lake boats beach 005https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/2012-06-03-biel-lake-boats-beach-003.jpg2012 06 03 biel lake boats beach 0032012-06-05T19:03:28+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2012/05/30/31-beachwear-blunders/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/2012-05-29-biel-canal-001-e1338364525179.jpg2012 05 29 biel canal 001With the joy of oncoming summer, comes the horror of Speedo swimwear. Please guys, no matter how it looks in the fitting room, in the light of day, Speedos are never a good idea.2012-05-30T11:34:06+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2012/05/29/32-switzerlands-sweet-slide-into-summer/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/2012-05-29-biel-canal-004-e1338289359714.jpg2012 05 29 biel canal 004https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/2012-05-29-biel-canal-026-e1338287251294.jpg2012 05 29 biel canal 026https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/2012-05-29-biel-canal-003.jpg2012 05 29 biel canal 0032012-05-29T11:39:46+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2012/05/28/33-what-i-will-miss-item-two/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/2011-12-30-vienna-bratislava-127-e1338195405377.jpg2011 12 30 Vienna Bratislava 127Tourists and congregants mix it up inside St. Stephen's Cathedral in Vienna. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/2012-01-04-venice-099.jpg2012 01 04 Venice 099https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/2011-12-30-vienna-bratislava-135-e1338189008963.jpg2011 12 30 Vienna St. Stephen's Church, Viennahttps://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/2012-04-29-solothurn-w-gupta-fam-024-e1338188481672.jpg2012 04 29 solothurn Solothurn St. Urs Cathedral2012-05-28T09:14:06+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2012/05/27/34-what-i-will-miss-item-one/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/2012-05-24-small-car-street-musicians-007-e1337853223809.jpg2012 05 24 small car street musicians 0072012-05-27T06:13:52+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2012/05/26/35-medieval-fashion-revival/2012-05-26T06:59:59+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2012/05/25/36oops/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/2012-05-15-lac-biel-windy-day-019-e1337974961929.jpg2012 05 15 lac biel windy day 019A rough day on Lac Biel for the swans.2012-05-25T19:48:20+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2012/05/25/37-nuclear-to-hydroelectric-to-fossil-to-wind-to-solar-power/2012-05-25T19:18:23+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2012/05/24/38-delemont/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/2012-05-21-st-ursanne-delemont-110-e1337852656840.jpg2012 05 21 st. ursanne & delemont 110No matter what we think of a Swiss town, we always appreciate their undulating roof-lines. They are adorable. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/2012-05-21-st-ursanne-delemont-103-e1337852449258.jpg2012 05 21 st. ursanne & delemont 103Angelic display outside a tapas bar at Delemont, Switzerland. 2012-05-24T19:19:03+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2012/05/23/39-saint-ursanne-founded-by-rogueish-irish-monks/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/2012-05-21-st-ursanne-delemont-088.jpg2012 05 21 st. ursanne & delemont 088The Jura Mountain's limestone cliffs over Saint-Ursanne.https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/2012-05-21-st-ursanne-delemont-067.jpg2012 05 21 st. ursanne & delemont 067Private properties rim the River Doubs, but it has a narrow walkway along the shoreline that is open to the public. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/2012-05-21-st-ursanne-delemont-063.jpg2012 05 21 st. ursanne & delemont 063https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/2012-05-21-st-ursanne-delemont-061.jpg2012 05 21 st. ursanne & delemont 061Cloister at Saint-Ursanne. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/2012-05-21-st-ursanne-delemont-059.jpg2012 05 21 st. ursanne & delemont 059Sarcophagi of Saint Ursicinus https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/2012-05-21-st-ursanne-delemont-058.jpg2012 05 21 st. ursanne & delemont 058https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/2012-05-21-st-ursanne-delemont-057.jpg2012 05 21 st. ursanne & delemont 057The original red sandstone statue of St. John Nepomucene who was drowned for ticking off a king. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/2012-05-21-st-ursanne-delemont-054.jpg2012 05 21 st. ursanne & delemont 054Genuine medieval cobblestone by Collegiate Church. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/2012-05-21-st-ursanne-delemont-046.jpg2012 05 21 st. ursanne & delemont 046A 12th Century crypt with a groined vaulted ceiling in Collegiate Church was the former interment site for Saint-Ursanne's namesake saint who is now resting under the church's main altar. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/2012-05-21-st-ursanne-delemont-037.jpg2012 05 21 st. ursanne & delemont 037Even the tiniest Swiss villages have massive stone churches.2012-05-23T18:33:51+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2012/05/22/41-saint-ursanne-in-pictures/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/2012-05-21-st-ursanne-delemont-024.jpg2012 05 21 st. ursanne & delemont 024A lovely shaded street-side cafe by the rue de quartier sits at the far end of this church grove. It is one of the best shaded eating spots in town. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/2012-05-21-st-ursanne-delemont-084.jpg2012 05 21 st. ursanne & delemont 084https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/2012-05-21-st-ursanne-delemont-016.jpg2012 05 21 st. ursanne & delemont 016One of Saint-Ursanne's town gates.https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/2012-05-21-st-ursanne-delemont-018-e1337668765345.jpg2012 05 21 st. ursanne & delemont 018Swiss shutters are always picturesque.2012-05-22T07:08:50+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2012/05/10/52-whitney-houstons-hotel-room/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/2012-05-09-hockey-008-e1336642604768.jpg2012 05 09 hockey 008Canadian and Swiss over-the-counter medications are not always evenly matched. 2012-05-22T05:27:28+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2012/05/21/41-saint-ursanne/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/2012-05-21-st-ursanne-delemont-008-e1337599666300.jpg2012 05 21 st. ursanne & delemont 008The train passes above Saint-Ursanne, more than through it, and so the town is a charming 10-minute hike down the Jura cliffs over this cobblestone street. The walk back up is about 30 minutes. We did see a bus take passengers down, but not up. This would be in keeping with Swiss tradition, which is to climb inclines at every opportunity. I'm joking. I'm sure there is a bus ride up the hill, but not that we saw.https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/2012-05-21-st-ursanne-delemont-013.jpg2012 05 21 st. ursanne & delemont 0132012-05-21T11:37:28+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2012/05/20/42-nuclear-nixed/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/2012-05-17-nidau-and-swan-nests-005.jpg2012 05 17 nidau and swan nests 005A Swiss neighbourhood of rowhouses has multiple dedicated spaces for communal clotheslines. As a fan of sun-dried linens, I love this. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/2012-05-11-biel-hot-day-0041-e1337491171925.jpg2012 05 11 biel hot day 004Switzerland already uses solar power the old-fashioned way - with clotheslines. This rooftop clothesline is in the city core. 2012-05-22T18:35:04+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2012/05/19/43-switzerland-its-not-just-about-mountainside-chalets/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/28496_385838726049_607211049_4430163_5372732_n-e1337415424535.jpg28496_385838726049_607211049_4430163_5372732_nBack home in Canada: A hedge hides the houses beyond our backyard. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/2012-05-17-nidau-and-swan-nests-009-e1337414211986.jpg2012 05 17 nidau and swan nests 009https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/2012-05-17-nidau-and-swan-nests-011-e1337413750848.jpg2012 05 17 nidau and swan nests 011The Swiss make everything look cute. 2012-05-22T05:34:45+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2012/05/18/44-switzerland-sweet-on-street-re-surfacing/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/2012-05-18-donkey-asphalt-001-e1337344328654.jpg2012 05 18 donkey asphalt 001If you're going to leave livestock penned up all over city streets, it is just possible that the asphalt will need resurfacing more often. This donkey petting pen is part of a festival that last year had a very angry Holstein cow who repeatedly charged at the fencing. Hotheaded Holsteins are nowhere to be seen in this year's festival. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/2012-05-18-donkey-asphalt-002-e1337343737917.jpg2012 05 18 donkey asphalt 002New shellacked version of asphalt on the left; old matte version on the right. 2012-05-22T18:30:47+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2012/05/17/45-switzerlands-vacation-vaccination/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/2012-05-17-nidau-and-swan-nests-022-e1337260794651.jpg2012 05 17 nidau and swan nests 0222012-05-17T14:26:48+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2012/05/16/46-under-the-watchful-eyes-of-swiss-authorities/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/2012-05-16-envelope-004-e1337165930812.jpg2012 05 16 envelope 0042012-05-16T13:22:21+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2012/05/15/47-pared-packing-or-the-gauntlet-has-been-thrown/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/2012-05-06-tubas-midwives-and-sandwiches-0021-e1337083487965.jpg2012 05 06 tubas midwives and sandwiches 0022012-05-16T11:46:07+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2012/05/14/48-how-to-write-a-blog-a-day/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/2012-05-14-strunk-and-white-e1336991157787.jpg2012 05 14 strunk and white2012-05-14T10:48:57+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2012/05/13/49-recycle-your-pets/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/2012-05-06-tubas-midwives-and-sandwiches-010-e1336896088477.jpg2012 05 06 tubas midwives and sandwiches 010We cannot even begin to guess what this means. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/2011-10-20-berlin-leipzig-077.jpg2011 10 20 Berlin & Leipzig 0772012-05-14T09:20:21+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2012/05/12/50-saturday-seven-weeks-to-go/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/2012-05-11-biel-hot-day-004-e1336808470675.jpg2012 05 11 biel hot day 004A rooftop clothesline in downtown Biel/Bienne. Note the orderly arrangement of small clothing items to large. This was obviously set up by a Swiss-German.https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/2012-05-11-biel-hot-day-001.jpg2012 05 11 biel hot day 001A slow stroll through our town on a 32 C day.2012-05-22T05:32:50+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2012/05/11/51-switzerland-famous-for-meringues-who-knew/2012-05-22T05:28:40+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2012/05/09/53-sweet-or-seriously-stupid/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/2012-05-02-shoes-and-canal-sitters-002.jpg2012 05 02 shoes and canal sitters 002The canal is deeper and the water shallower than it looks in this photo.2012-05-21T23:44:31+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2012/05/08/54-just-another-beautiful-spring-day-in-switzerland/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/2012-04-21-biel-old-town-006-e1336458804683.jpg2012 04 21 biel old town 006A funky fence at an outdoor cafe in Biel/Bienne https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/2012-05-02-shoes-and-canal-sitters-008-e1336458168186.jpg2012 05 02 shoes and canal sitters 008Our little town's Lac Biel. Yes, it is this beautiful. 2012-05-22T05:21:13+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2012/05/07/55-the-importance-of-being-in-a-crosswalk/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/2012-04-19-packing-plus-cherry-blossoms-009.jpg2012 04 19 packing plus cherry blossoms 009We see many people with crutches, canes and casts on Swiss streets, including young adults with twisted limbs and hobbled gaits. Other foreigners have observed the same thing, yet when we ask the Swiss about the multitude of injured on the streets, they don't see anything unusual. We don't know whether these are the ski or street-crossing wounded, but we sure wonder. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/2012-04-19-packing-plus-cherry-blossoms-003-e1336376165980.jpg2012 04 19 packing plus cherry blossoms 003Swiss woman makes power play over transit authority. 2012-05-07T08:12:34+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2012/05/06/56-midwivery-sunglass-fashion-show-car-sales-and-tubas/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/2012-05-06-tubas-midwives-and-sandwiches-003-e1336304113986.jpg2012 05 06 tubas midwives and sandwiches 003It turns out you can play tubas in the rain. Who knew?https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/2012-05-06-tubas-midwives-and-sandwiches-007-e1336303739794.jpg2012 05 06 tubas midwives and sandwiches 007If this isn't an argument in favor of c-sections, I don't know what is. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/2012-05-06-tubas-midwives-and-sandwiches-006-e1336303592841.jpg2012 05 06 tubas midwives and sandwiches 006\what is this man doing to that baby at that festival table?https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/2012-05-06-tubas-midwives-and-sandwiches-002-e1336303439178.jpg2012 05 06 tubas midwives and sandwiches 002When a festival runs low on ideas, bring in the car dealers!2012-05-06T15:09:41+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2012/05/05/57-stats-urday/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/2012-05-03-canal-006-e1336206903316.jpg2012 05 03 canal 006Our Swiss town is in bloom from the ground all the way up to the treetops. The air is delicious.2012-05-22T05:37:48+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2012/05/04/58-je-suis-un-idiot-plus-some-stranger-danger-tips/2012-05-04T14:58:53+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2012/05/02/60-shoe-shucking/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/2012-05-02-shoes-and-canal-sitters-001.jpg2012 05 02 shoes and canal sitters 001Farewell dear friends. 2012-05-02T11:53:09+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2012/05/01/61-cantons-and-canada/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/2012-04-29-solothurn-w-gupta-fam-018.jpg2012 04 29 solothurn w gupta fam 018Switzerland, the land of many cobblestones and cantons.2012-05-01T22:34:29+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2012/04/30/62-o-shopping-cart-o-shopping-cart/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/2012-04-14-candy-plus-oldtown-skids-030-e1335770724332.jpg2012 04 14 candy plus oldtown skids 030Zebra-striped and pastel-hued pasta in a display window of a Swiss specialty shop. 2012-05-22T00:16:21+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2012/04/29/63-solothurn/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/2012-04-29-solothurn-w-gupta-fam-024-e1335690670224.jpg2012 04 29 solothurn 024A 15-minute train ride takes us to this: Solothurn. 2012-04-29T09:12:28+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2012/04/28/64-castle-remnant/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/2012-04-20-bagpipe-vid-and-biel-swans-015.jpg2012 04 20 Bagpipe vid and biel swans 015https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/2012-04-20-bagpipe-vid-and-biel-swans-010.jpg2012 04 20 Bagpipe vid and biel swans 010Our town's castle has a moat.https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/2012-04-20-bagpipe-vid-and-biel-swans-0081.jpg2012 04 20 Bagpipe vid and biel swans 008Biel/Bienne turret. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/2012-04-20-bagpipe-vid-and-biel-swans-004.jpg2012 04 20 Bagpipe vid and biel swans 004https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/2012-04-20-bagpipe-vid-and-biel-swans-003.jpg2012 04 20 Bagpipe vid and biel swans 003https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/2012-04-21-biel-old-town-004-e1335601752311.jpg2012 04 21 biel old town 004Biel still has its castle walls and turrets. 2012-04-28T17:33:14+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2012/04/27/65-fabulous-restaurant-under-our-noses/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/2012-04-27-bikes-strawberries-biel-001-e1335518533827.jpg2012 04 27 bikes strawberries biel 001Our hotel staff treat us like royalty - first by puffing me up with delicious pastries, second by feeding us fabulous beef, and then letting us take over any part of the hotel we like. How could we not love it here?https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/2012-04-27-bikes-strawberries-biel-008-e1335518204513.jpg2012 04 27 bikes strawberries biel 008BIEL/BIENNE, SWITZERLAND: Tour de Romandie travels with their own on-board laundry equipment, not to mention with two semi trucks full of bikes, staffed with bike mechanics, massage therapists, travel managers, the works. Photo: Joanne Hatherly2012-04-27T14:04:44+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2012/04/26/66-foreign-fears/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/2011-10-20-berlin-leipzig-201-e1335426959585.jpg2011 10 20 Berlin & Leipzig 201You can never have too much Nutella. 2012-04-26T15:56:07+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2012/04/25/67-swiss-dangerous-dog-breed-bans-and-restrictions-on-using-a-gun-to-discipline-a-dog/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/2012-04-21-biel-old-town-002-e1335345747254.jpg2012 04 21 biel old town 002Swiss police with an adorable black labrador. I once interviewed a U.S. police dog handler who in response to the question about why they don't use pitbulls when they are regarded as so ferocious, said pitbulls are great dogs, but once they fail to make the police dog standard because once they start an attack, they do not respond readily to commands to stop. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/2012-04-21-biel-old-town-003-e1335343820810.jpg2012 04 21 biel old town 0032012-04-25T10:10:23+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2012/04/24/69-swiss-fish/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/goldfish2520in2520bowl.jpg69: Swiss Fish 2012-04-24T18:03:06+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2012/04/23/69-laundry-list/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/2012-04-23-laundry-dryer-001-e1335176242459.jpg2012 04 23 laundry dryer 001My current laundry dryer. 2012-04-23T11:14:33+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2012/04/22/70-swiss-couples-marry-twice-who-knew/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/2012-04-21-biel-old-town-009-e1335089081995.jpg2012 04 21 bridal party 009One undocumented Swiss wedding tradition no one warns you about: Brides and their friends take to the streets dressed in colourful costumes, 'selling' trinkets and candies, and allowing their customers to give them a peck on the cheek, with their entourage taking photos that will later be tallied. Apparently, the more kisses, the luckier the bride. It is a little like watching a travelling party, but the joy and hilarity is infectious. There is no fixed price on the trinkets - people can give as much or as little as they like. 2012-04-22T11:40:33+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2012/04/21/71-the-savagery-of-swans-statsurday/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/2012-04-20-bagpipe-vid-and-biel-swans-008-e1334999823364.jpg2012 04 20 Bagpipe vid and biel swans 008Yes, he got close and his feathers were up. I have no idea what that means. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/2012-04-20-bagpipe-vid-and-biel-swans-006.jpg2012 04 20 Bagpipe vid and biel swans 006Swans are beautiful no matter how you look at them. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/2012-04-20-bagpipe-vid-and-biel-swans-016.jpg2012 04 20 Bagpipe vid and biel swans 016Orderly Republican swans to the right, more Democrat "Frank Sinatra 'I Did It My Way" swans to the left. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/2012-04-20-bagpipe-vid-and-biel-swans-009-e1334999773829.jpg2012 04 20 Bagpipe vid and biel swans 009Fascinating only to me, possibly, but this is how much churn one swan kicked up on his start to avoid a bully-swan. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/2012-04-20-bagpipe-vid-and-biel-swans-013-e1334997982595.jpg2012 04 20 biel swans 013Be afraid. Be very afraid. 2012-04-21T12:43:20+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2012/04/20/72-pack-attack-coming-to-grips-with-reality/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/stone-gate-living-room-e1334907659710.jpgStone Gate living roomSpanish threshing sled turned coffee table at our Victoria house. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/2012-01-28-biel-thru-jan-013-e1334906059135.jpg2012 01 28 SkiisThese wood skiis in a Biel/Bienne secondhand store were made in Nidau - a town within walking distance of our hotel. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/2012-04-07-biel-market-camel-alstadt-020-e1334905807293.jpg2012 04 07 Wood skiisThe skiis were made locally, like so many things in Switzerland. We love this. 2012-04-21T08:12:13+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2012/04/19/73-pack-attack-plus-can-luggage-get-you-arrested/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/2012-04-19-packing-plus-cherry-blossoms-003-e1334825291924.jpg2012 04 19 packing plus cherry blossoms 003A fraction of our collected goods. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/2012-04-19-packing-plus-cherry-blossoms-002-e1334825108479.jpg2012 04 19 packing plus cherry blossoms 0022012-04-19T09:02:53+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2012/04/18/74-living-with-language-indignities-plus-can-cold-sores-make-you-go-blind/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/2012-04-07-biel-market-camel-alstadt-0161.jpg2012 04 07 Biel market camel alstadt 016The streets of Biel/Bienne, where I am working on a career as a social pariah. 2012-04-19T07:21:23+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2012/04/17/75-urban-innerscapes-or-a-tale-of-two-continents/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/2012-03-03-biel-lausanne-olympic-park-043-e1334663737657.jpg2012 03 03 Biel & Lausanne + Olympic park 043A charming flagstone courtyard that we snuck into while near Lausanne, Switzerland. One of the apartment dwellers caught us poking around, but she was friendly about it. How can you not expect uninvited guests when your front door opens to this? https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/2012-04-16-biel-courtyard-neighbourhoods-006.jpg2012 04 16 biel courtyard neighbourhoods 006Pedestrian-only lanes are lovely. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/2012-04-16-biel-courtyard-neighbourhoods-005-e1334651029477.jpg2012 04 16 biel courtyard neighbourhoods 005Courtyards are common in our Swiss town. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/2012-04-16-biel-courtyard-neighbourhoods-010-e1334648526769.jpg2012 04 16 biel courtyard neighbourhoods 010This house, grand by Swiss standards, is tucked between apartment blocks and townhouses. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/2012-04-16-biel-courtyard-neighbourhoods-003-e1334648212213.jpg2012 04 16 biel courtyard neighbourhoods 003Gardens grow between apartment buildings - some elegantly coiffed, some left to spill over with vines and greenery. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/2012-04-16-biel-courtyard-neighbourhoods-001-e1334648020385.jpg2012 04 16 biel courtyard neighbourhoods 001Rooftop courtyard and green space imbedded in Manor, Biel's largest department store where the top two stories are of condo-apartments. The town has many rooftop gardens. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/2012-04-16-biel-courtyard-neighbourhoods-009-e1334644097381.jpg2012 04 16 biel courtyard neighbourhoods 009Little lanes web through Swiss town's downtown. 2012-04-17T12:03:13+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2012/04/16/76-made-in-insert-country-name-here/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/2012-04-14-candy-plus-oldtown-skids-014-e1334561387843.jpg2012 04 14 made in biel bienne coat tag Made right here in our town. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/2012-04-14-candy-plus-oldtown-skids-008.jpg2012 04 14 Biel old town courtyard and roadThis is the walk we take to the second hand shop in our town's charming medieval quarter. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/2012-04-14-candy-plus-oldtown-skids-016-e1334560798312.jpg2012 04 14 second hand shop coatsLambswool coats in Biel/Bienne's secondhand shop, made of lambs wool from Africa, but stitched together right here in our little town. 2012-04-16T07:46:08+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2012/04/15/77-street-walking/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/2012-04-14-candy-plus-oldtown-skids-042-e1334475600549.jpg2012 04 14 streetwalker shop?Sequins & stilettos. 2012-04-15T07:46:11+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2012/04/14/78-stats-urday-or-what-the-heck-does-%d1%86%d1%8e%d1%80%d0%b8%d1%85-%d0%b0%d1%80%d1%85%d0%b8%d1%82%d0%b5%d0%ba%d1%82%d1%83%d1%80%d0%b0-mean/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/2012-04-14-candy-plus-oldtown-skids-0111-e1334409157374.jpg2012 04 14 candy plus oldtown skids 011This is why I don't let Dave go clothes-shopping on his own. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/2012-04-14-candy-plus-oldtown-skids-011.jpg2012 04 14 candy plus oldtown skids 0112012-04-19T07:23:14+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2012/04/13/79-travel-turbulence-for-tresses/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/jo-5.jpgJo 5Sometimes a hat is the only answer to hairscare.https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/n635980066_1527431_5591-e1334307306950.jpgn635980066_1527431_559This is how my hair normally looks 10 minutes after styling. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/n635980066_1527431_559.jpgn635980066_1527431_559https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/2012-04-12-joanne-haircut.jpg2012 04 12 Joanne haircutI hate being photographed. It's why I usually look somewhat ticked. 2012-04-14T02:10:42+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2012/04/12/80-the-de-civilization-devolution/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/2012-03-26-biel-and-water-cannon-truck-001-e1334225596651.jpg2012 03 26 biel and water cannon truck 001How could this not be a great idea?https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/2012-03-29-biel-lake-and-old-town-008-e1334225376734.jpg2012 03 29 Biel lake and old town 008This is Dave. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/2012-04-07-biel-market-camel-alstadt-0012-e1334225154383.jpg2012 04 07 Biel market camel alstadt 001This is not Dave. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/2012-04-07-biel-market-camel-alstadt-0011.jpg2012 04 07 Biel market camel alstadt 0012012-04-12T10:18:53+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2012/04/11/where-to-next-2/2012-04-12T08:32:33+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2012/04/11/81-cobble-gobble-is-china-invading-europe-one-cobblestone-at-a-time/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/2012-04-07-biel-market-camel-alstadt-016-e1334127583686.jpg2012 04 07 Biel market camel alstadt 016Cobblestone in Biel/Bienne's historic quarter. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/2012-03-31-geneva-0691-e1334040741485.jpg2012 03 31 Geneva 069This cobblestone floor in Geneva may have been relaid (sett) in modern times, but it is a good example of the use of water-polished eclectic riverstone cobble streets.https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/2012-03-31-geneva-069.jpg2012 03 31 Geneva 069https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/2011-11-12-olten-solothurn-079-e1333093512400.jpg2011 11 12 Olten + Solothurn 079Here's a closer look. Given the flatness of this cobblestone surface, it appears that it was relaid in more recent years. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/2011-12-30-vienna-bratislava-167-e1333092121239.jpg2011 12 30 Vienna Bratislava 167These gap-toothed cobblestoned street in Bratislava is pretty old and dilapidated, but you can see by the squared edges that these are still quarried stones and are therefore relatively modern. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/2012-03-29-biel-lake-and-old-town-012-e1333091700801.jpg2012 03 29 Biel lake and old town 012Biel, Switzerland's Alstadt: There are plenty of reasons to visit here, but the cobblestone is not one of them. Nonetheless, this medieval district does have something that makes it worth a stop. It's a secret, for now. 2012-04-11T07:08:17+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/the-author/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/2012-04-09-dave-and-joanne.jpg2012 04 09 dave and joannehttps://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/jo-21.jpgjo 2https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/jo-2.jpgjo 2https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/jo-hat-crop-2.jpgJoanne Hatherlyhttps://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/blog-1-001.jpgJoanne Hatherly2012-04-10T18:30:06+00:00weekly0.6https://hobonotes.com/2012/04/10/82-wrought-iron-and-tulips/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/2012-04-09-biel-yards-back-lanes-and-dj-portraits-021.jpg2012 04 09 Biel yards, back lanes and dj portraits 021The gardens all edge toward a wildscape edge-of-the-forest feel to them, even when in the city centre. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/2012-04-09-biel-yards-back-lanes-and-dj-portraits-019.jpg2012 04 09 Biel yards, back lanes and dj portraits 019Most of the table-and-chair sets we see in the streetside gardens are fairly humble - we wonder if that they don't attract thieves. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/2012-04-09-biel-yards-back-lanes-and-dj-portraits-018.jpg2012 04 09 Biel yards, back lanes and dj portraits 018This front yard has its own marsh. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/2012-04-09-biel-yards-back-lanes-and-dj-portraits-016.jpg2012 04 09 Biel yards, back lanes and dj portraits 016Wrought iron makes everything look pretty.https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/2012-04-09-biel-yards-back-lanes-and-dj-portraits-015.jpg2012 04 09 Biel yards, back lanes and dj portraits 015Tulips barely make the rim of a tightly trimmed hedge. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/2012-04-09-biel-yards-back-lanes-and-dj-portraits-006.jpg2012 04 09 Biel yards, back lanes and dj portraits 006This garden has a future mature shrubs, a loose pebble base and cantalope-sized stones painted in primary colours. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/2012-04-09-biel-yards-back-lanes-and-dj-portraits-004.jpg2012 04 09 Biel yards, back lanes and dj portraits 004https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/2012-04-09-biel-yards-back-lanes-and-dj-portraits-002-e1334044403351.jpg2012 04 09 Biel yards, back lanes and dj portraits 002https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/2012-04-09-biel-yards-back-lanes-and-dj-portraits-001-e1334043202673.jpg2012 04 09 Biel yards, back lanes and dj portraits 0012012-04-10T15:04:46+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2012/04/09/83-language-lagunas-a-topic-about-which-we-never-tire/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/2012-04-09-biel-yards-back-lanes-and-dj-portraits-0221.jpg2012 04 09 Biel yards, back lanes and dj portraits 022https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/2012-04-09-biel-yards-back-lanes-and-dj-portraits-022.jpg2012 04 09 Biel yards, back lanes and dj portraits 0222012-04-09T11:59:02+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2012/04/08/84-unesco-heritage-status-for-swiss-fondue/2012-04-08T15:09:44+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2012/04/07/85-swiss-saturday-shopping/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/2012-04-07-biel-market-camel-alstadt-018.jpg2012 04 07 Biel market camel alstadt 018The Swiss love shutters. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/2012-04-07-biel-market-camel-alstadt-026.jpg2012 04 07 Biel market camel alstadt 026Biel's medieval village is relatively small but we still got lost in it while trying to find a particular clothing/coffee shop. Getting lost is good: It leads to discovery charming little vignettes like this tumble-down hidden courtyard. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/2012-04-07-biel-market-camel-alstadt-024-e1333797193889.jpg2012 04 07 Biel market camel alstadt 024People also leave garbage on the church steps. It must be a pick-up zone.https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/2012-04-07-biel-market-camel-alstadt-005-e1333797047485.jpg2012 04 07 Biel market camel alstadt 005Tulips on the steps of the Biel Dutch Reformed Church. This congregation was listed in Lausanne's register in 1228. Some sites say the windows in this church are among the oldest in Switzerland, but we're not so sure about that. The current church building dates back to the late 1300s.https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/2012-04-07-biel-market-camel-alstadt-001-e1333796468141.jpg2012 04 07 Biel market camel alstadt 001On one of Biel's main thoroughfares, edging onto the medieval town district. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/2012-04-07-biel-market-camel-alstadt-022-e1333796246651.jpg2012 04 07 Biel market camel alstadt 022The Swiss carry their flower bouquets upside down. Also, Swiss men carry pink plaid shopping bags and seem wholy unaware that in a North American schoolground, this would get them beat up. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/2012-04-07-biel-market-camel-alstadt-013-e1333795605126.jpg2012 04 07 Biel market camel alstadt 013Biel's thriving Saturday farmers market is a good place to shop. 2012-04-07T11:32:40+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2012/04/05/87-dum-dee-dum-dum-dumb-at-the-drugstore/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/2011-10-02-nidau-river-walk-004-e1333606254632.jpg2011 10 02 nidau river walk 004Switzerland: Land where Nyquil & Melatonin users viewed with suspicion. Heroin-addicts and alcoholics given free rein. 2012-04-06T16:14:50+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2012/03/18/travels-with-kids/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/2012-03-17-golden-pass-with-ved-neiha-nishtha-vidushi-gupta-038-e1332064691974.jpg2012 03 17 Golden Pass Gstaad, the uber-rich Swiss ski town of $80 Kleenex box cloth covers, $115 coat hangers and $192 polyester scarves where confessed pedophile Roman Polanski was finally arrested in 2009, much to the disappointment of everyone who forgets exactly what he did. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/2012-03-17-golden-pass-with-ved-neiha-nishtha-vidushi-gupta-018-e1332064525242.jpg2012 03 17 Golden Pass with Ved, Neiha, Nishtha + Vidushi Gupta 018https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/2012-03-17-golden-pass-with-ved-neiha-nishtha-vidushi-gupta-011-e1332064322388.jpg2012 03 17 Golden Pass with Ved, Neiha, Nishtha + Vidushi Gupta 0112012-04-06T08:26:19+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2012/04/06/86-purgatory-found/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/2012-03-31-geneva-0241.jpg2012 03 31 Geneva 024The view down rue de Purgatoire includes a lingerie shop. Hmm, that seems out-of-place.https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/2012-03-31-geneva-024.jpg2012 03 31 Geneva 024A lingerie shop on Purgatory Road. If purgatory is the place between heaven and hell, it might be a little warm, so dress light. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/2012-03-31-geneva-025.jpg2012 03 31 Geneva 025Facing Purgatory Road. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/2012-03-31-geneva-026.jpg2012 03 31 Geneva 0262012-04-08T16:24:56+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2012/04/04/88-life-laundry/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/2012-03-29-biel-lake-and-old-town-011.jpg2012 03 29 Biel lake and old town 011Our fancy dryer. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/2012-03-29-biel-lake-and-old-town-009-e1333524554187.jpg2012 03 29 Biel lake and old town 009The truth about hotels and laundry. 2012-04-04T19:07:53+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2012/04/03/89-genial-geneva-not-so-bad/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/2012-03-31-geneva-075.jpg2012 03 31 Geneva 075Bastions Park, Genevahttps://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/2012-03-31-geneva-041.jpg2012 03 31 Geneva 041This accordion/violin/vocals duo from France gave Geneva's old-town a wonderful musical air. They were truly amazing. They would not give us their names, however, they said they were called "Children of the World." They also accused their countrymen, the French, as being unappreciative of the musical arts and so they came to Switzerland to perform where the people are more cultured. Take that, France, from your own cultural citizenry. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/2012-03-31-geneva-008.jpg2012 03 31 Geneva 008Ooooo, dredging equipment. This photo shows that this blog values engineers and those inclined toward technology. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/2012-03-31-geneva-044.jpg2012 03 31 Geneva 044Cathedral Saint-Pierre, Geneva, Switzerland. A Romanesque-Gothic structure dating back to 1000 A.D., which took 150 years to build. A church has stood here since the 4th Century. There is an archaeological dig and crypts beneath it. The church went from Catholic to Protestant in 1536, when it was stripped of its icons and other adornments that Protestants view as a form of idol worship, but that Catholics look upon as markers of the faith and examples from the lives of early saints. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/2012-03-31-geneva-064-e1333434975581.jpg2012 03 31 Geneva 064John Calvin's preaching chair. 2012-04-03T08:15:58+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2012/04/02/90-junking-geneva-random-numbers/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/2012-03-31-geneva-028-e1333350046326.jpg2012 03 31 Geneva 028https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/2012-03-31-geneva-039.jpg2012 03 31 Geneva 039Cafe-Creperie Saint-Pierre, Genevahttps://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/2012-03-31-geneva-009-e1333348268822.jpg2012 03 31 Geneva 009A Genevan bridge with the towering fountain in the background. Geneva can do better. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/2012-03-31-geneva-030.jpg2012 03 31 Geneva 030What Dave looks like when he sees steak on the menu for the same price as we would pay for an entire strip of prime beef tenderloin back in Canada. Math on this statement: 1 steak/$70 in Switzerland, or 15 steaks/$70 in Canada. Or maybe it was $60? No matter - it is really high up there as far as our restaurant pricing sensibilities go.https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/2012-03-31-geneva-004.jpg2012 03 31 Geneva 004The only bridge adornment we could find in Geneva was an open-air statue and "museum" about the philosopher Jean-Jacques Rousseau (1712-1778) who left Geneva at the age of 16, and who irritated the city leaders to such an extent that they burned his books here, but later capitalized on his fame by erecting a statue. A small detail: Rousseau spent two months at St. Peter's Island in Biel/Bienne and counted it as the happiest two months of his life. 2012-04-02T08:12:19+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2012/04/01/91-geneva-get-up-go-or-not/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/2012-03-31-geneva-017-e1333266127970.jpg2012 03 31 Geneva 017This is one of two stones brought down by glaciers during the Ice Age. Known as Pierres du Niton (Neptune's Stones), this stone was once used as the reference point by which the Swiss measured altitude, says the writers of Eyewitness Travel: Switzerland. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/2012-03-31-geneva-014-e1333264788893.jpg2012 03 31 Geneva 014Wiki-excerpt on Geneva's fountain: Five hundred litres (132 gallons) of water per second are jetted to an altitude of 140 metres (459 feet) by two 500 kW pumps, operating at 2,400 V, consuming over one megawatt of electricity.[3][4][5] The water leaves the nozzle at a speed of 200 km/h (124 mph). When it is in operation, at any given moment there are about 7,000 litres (1849 gallons) of water in the air. Unsuspecting visitors to the fountain—which can be reached via a stone jetty from the left bank of the lake—may be surprised to find themselves drenched after a slight change in wind direction.2012-04-01T07:57:13+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2012/03/31/92-geneva-protestants-catholics-and-bookshops/2012-03-31T16:37:29+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2012/03/30/93-biels-alstadt-worth-another-look/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/2012-03-29-biel-lake-and-old-town-029.jpg2012 03 29 Biel lake and old town 029https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/2012-03-29-biel-lake-and-old-town-028.jpg2012 03 29 Biel lake and old town 028https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/2012-03-29-biel-lake-and-old-town-027.jpg2012 03 29 Biel lake and old town 027https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/2012-03-29-biel-lake-and-old-town-026.jpg2012 03 29 Biel lake and old town 026https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/2012-03-29-biel-lake-and-old-town-023.jpg2012 03 29 Biel lake and old town 023https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/2012-03-29-biel-lake-and-old-town-022.jpg2012 03 29 Biel lake and old town 022https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/2012-03-29-biel-lake-and-old-town-021.jpg2012 03 29 Biel lake and old town 021https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/2012-03-29-biel-lake-and-old-town-020.jpg2012 03 29 Biel lake and old town 020https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/2012-03-29-biel-lake-and-old-town-019.jpg2012 03 29 Biel lake and old town 019https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/2012-03-29-biel-lake-and-old-town-018.jpg2012 03 29 Biel lake and old town 0182012-03-30T13:01:57+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2012/03/29/94-swelterland/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/2012-03-26-biel-and-water-cannon-truck-005.jpg2012 03 26 biel and water cannon truck 005Sweltering swan.https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/2012-03-26-biel-and-water-cannon-truck-010-e1332948136306.jpg2012 03 26 biel and water cannon truck 0102012-03-29T07:05:45+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2012/03/28/95-more-on-mulhouse/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/2012-03-24-mulhouse-france-051.jpg2012 03 24 mulhouse france 051See the word "Bale?" It means "Basel," in French - which is why it is so easy to get lost in Europe. Every country seems to have its own translation for another place-name, which drives us crazy. Why can't Basel be Basel in French, German, English, Italian and so forth? https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/2012-03-24-mulhouse-france-050.jpg2012 03 24 mulhouse france 050The serious expressions of customers lined up at an ice cream kiosk. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/2012-03-24-mulhouse-france-045.jpg2012 03 24 mulhouse france 045Mulhouse has multiple miniature town squares as well as the large main one. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/2012-03-24-mulhouse-france-043.jpg2012 03 24 mulhouse france 043Bonhomme is the name of one of my early French ancestors who came to Canada in the early 1600s.https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/2012-03-24-mulhouse-france-034.jpg2012 03 24 mulhouse france 034About to go into sugar overload. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/2012-03-24-mulhouse-france-033.jpg2012 03 24 mulhouse france 033Dave and a friend. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/2012-03-24-mulhouse-france-027.jpg2012 03 24 mulhouse france 027A real chair paired to a real plastic table - not comfy, or even cool, but definitely interesting. This was in a high-end shop. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/2012-03-24-mulhouse-france-026.jpg2012 03 24 mulhouse france 026A modern furniture shop with funky glass and plastic fixtures and furnishings. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/2012-03-24-mulhouse-france-025.jpg2012 03 24 mulhouse france 025A little window adornment. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/2012-03-24-mulhouse-france-013.jpg2012 03 24 mulhouse france 013A caravel in Mulhouse's square.2012-03-28T07:40:01+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2012/03/27/96-mulling-around-in-mulhouse-france/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/2012-03-24-mulhouse-france-017-e1332834781900.jpg2012 03 24 mulhouse france 017Dave reckons medieval key chains must have required a lot of muscle.https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/2012-03-24-mulhouse-france-011-e1332834199896.jpg2012 03 24 mulhouse france 011Our French maitre'd does not look so scary once he took off his scrappy jacket and shed the shades, but he still has a bar-bouncer physique. We dared not leave any food on our plate, lest we insult him or his establishment's chefs. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/2012-03-24-mulhouse-france-019.jpg2012 03 24 mulhouse france 019Mulhouse's Rothus Museum has some cool skeletal stuff in it. Small towns in France and Switzerland all seem to have their own tiny museums with really amazing collections, the likes of which would be unthinkable in comparably sized Canadian cities. How do the Europeans do it? https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/2012-03-24-mulhouse-france-029-e1332832430753.jpg2012 03 24 mulhouse france 0292012-03-27T07:59:18+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2012/03/26/97-a-town-with-its-own-water-cannon-truck/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/2012-03-26-biel-and-water-cannon-truck-009.jpg2012 03 26 biel and water cannon truck 009Water cannons are abhorred in North America for their historical use in the race riots of the 1960s, but they are still made and sold in Europe (U.K.-manufactured), and come in handy to remind soccer rioters to keep their game-enthused vandalism confined to the arena. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/2012-03-26-biel-and-water-cannon-truck-002.jpg2012 03 26 biel and water cannon truck 002Now that's a water cannon! 2012-03-26T08:22:30+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2012/03/25/98-french-fils-et-filles-cest-bon-or-non/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/2012-03-24-mulhouse-france-015.jpg2012 03 24 mulhouse france 015Outdoor cafes in town squares are lovely car-free zones to teach children about restaurant manners. They can sit quietly with the adults, or safely blow off steam by running around the square. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/2012-03-24-mulhouse-france-009-e1332673638119.jpgMulhouse, France, 2012 03 24A French child playing quietly at an outdoor cafe' in France. 2012-03-25T16:11:46+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2012/03/21/102-the-insanity-of-insomnia/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/2011-09-24-wedding-001-e1332318741170.jpg2011 09 24 wedding 001This photo has nothing to do with this blog post. I've included it to cheerily offset the gargoyle photo, which is the stuff of nightmares.2012-03-26T02:07:42+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2012/03/24/99-off-to-france-are-french-children-really-that-well-behaved/2012-03-24T15:08:36+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2012/03/23/100-so-long-to-hats/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/2012-03-23-res-card-hats-013-e1332511928943.jpg2012 03 23 res card + hats 0132012-03-24T06:44:01+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2012/03/22/101-how-liz-lemon-saved-my-life/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/oprah_1527972c.jpg101: How Liz Lemon Saved My Life2012-03-24T06:42:56+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2012/03/20/103-days-not-meeting-coetzee/2012-03-20T12:29:23+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2012/03/19/the-countdown-continuation/2012-03-19T09:37:22+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2012/03/15/good-things-come-to-an-end-part-two/2012-03-15T13:56:40+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2012/03/13/good-things-come-to-an-end-part-one/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/2012-03-13-biel-shopping-carts-stuff-008-e1331639959315.jpg2012 03 13 biel shopping carts stuff 008These are not the high-end shopping carts. They are the "I'm thinking of going to the over $200 cart range, but I'm not there yet" selection. Prices in this batch are in the $150 neighborhood.2012-03-13T12:19:15+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2012/03/08/free-plane-ticket-home-comes-with-cuffs-and-diapers/2012-03-22T07:13:03+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2012/03/06/loveless-lausanne/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/2012-03-03-biel-lausanne-olympic-park-060-e1331032656188.jpg2012 03 03 Biel & Lausanne + Olympic park 060Some loitering Lausannites gave us the creeps. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/2012-03-03-biel-lausanne-olympic-park-025.jpg2012 03 03 Biel & Lausanne + Olympic park 025This is the more walkable portion of the Lausanne lakefront promenade. It got narrower than this and was surfaced partially in uneven flagstones, making the 4-8-foot possible drop onto the rocks below all the more exciting. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/2012-03-03-biel-lausanne-olympic-park-024.jpg2012 03 03 Biel & Lausanne + Olympic park 024Okay, Lausanne's waterfront is not without merit. It has many charming wharfs. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/2012-03-03-biel-lausanne-olympic-park-082.jpg2012 03 03 Biel & Lausanne + Olympic park 082 statueSculpture on the waterfront at Lausanne's Olympic Museum. 2012-03-06T17:01:54+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2012/03/02/a-countdown-queen-her-calendars/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/2012-03-02-countdown-queen-014.jpg2012 03 02 countdown queen 0142012-03-13T03:25:13+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2012/02/29/culture-chasms-in-the-change-room/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/2011-12-30-vienna-bratislava-329.jpg2011 12 30 Vienna Bratislava 329Screams.https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/2011-12-30-vienna-bratislava-326.jpg2011 12 30 Vienna Bratislava 326Bratislava bathroom; What the heck is that?2012-02-29T14:44:48+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2012/02/24/maid-in-switzerland-or-jennifer-lopez-makes-it-look-all-sparkly-but-really-it-is-not-and-our-weird-worries-about-maid-theft/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/maids.jpgMaid in Switzerland, or Jennifer Lopez makes it look all sparkly, but really it is not.2012-02-24T11:59:02+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2012/02/23/can-we-get-out-of-here/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/6a00e5504a658688330148c8143e7f970c-800wi.jpgCan we get out of here?2012-02-23T16:55:26+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2012/02/22/eeny-meeny-miny-moe/2012-02-22T16:08:37+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2012/02/20/the-book-is-our-friend/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/2012-02-20-books-003-e1329728911662.jpg2012 02 20 books 0032012-04-02T18:58:08+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2012/02/16/paris-food-can-you-eat-lambs-kidney-without-having-to-sell-your-own-2/2012-02-16T11:58:40+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2012/02/12/change-room-etiquette-2/2012-02-20T10:31:55+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2012/02/10/switzerlands-see-through-public-washroom-toilet-tips-for-travelers-2/2012-02-10T10:44:38+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2012/02/07/spectacular-ice-show/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/ice4.jpgice4Switzerland's ice storm: Showing New York that a "boot" is not the worse thing that can happen to your car.https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/ice3.jpgice3Have a seat. It's ice outside.https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/ice1.jpgice1Lake Geneva transformed into frozen landscape, literally, by blustery winds and freezing temps.2012-02-08T07:01:59+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2012/02/06/snow-and-ice-and-everything-nice-is-what-canadians-are-made-of/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/2012-01-28-biel-thru-jan-011-e1328533223871.jpg2012 01 28 biel thru jan 011Even when its cold, Swiss swans maintain order (it had not snowed yet when this photo was taken, but aren't the swans pretty?)https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/2012-01-28-biel-thru-jan-027-e1328533095447.jpg2012 01 28 biel thru jan 027This photo doesn't really have anything to do with Europe's cold snap. We just think this is Little Red Riding Hood, and look! She's made friends with the wolf, who also sports a red collar. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/2012-02-06-biel-snow-005-e1328532805156.jpg2012 02 06 biel snow 005A fountain's spray freeze-frames the greenery around a park pond. 2012-02-06T14:29:42+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2012/02/03/teddy-bears-the-swisss-secret-weapon-in-the-event-of-a-nuclear-disaster/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/2012-02-03-nuclear-teddy-bear-001.jpg2012 02 03 nuclear teddy bear 001Swiss authorities to nuclear-fall-out residents: Grab your teddy bears. This is going to get a lot worse before it gets better! 2012-02-03T17:15:40+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2012/01/31/stumblebum/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/2012-01-28-biel-thru-jan-003.jpg2012 01 28 biel thru jan 003Pass me a wrench, wilya?https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/2012-01-28-biel-thru-jan-002.jpg2012 01 28 biel thru jan 0022012-01-31T19:25:07+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2012/01/26/chocolate-supremacy-in-surprising-places/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/2011-12-30-vienna-bratislava-2461.jpg2011 12 30 Vienna Bratislava 246Here's the way stalkers look on the inside,, but on the outside they can look normal. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/2011-12-30-vienna-bratislava-2451.jpg2011 12 30 Vienna Bratislava 245https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/2011-12-30-vienna-bratislava-325.jpg2011 12 30 Vienna Bratislava 325The best hot chocolate ever. If you know the recipe for Slovakian hot chocolate, please share! 2012-01-26T15:26:49+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2012/01/24/bratislava-the-beautiful/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/2011-12-30-vienna-bratislava-361-copy.jpg2011 12 30 Vienna Bratislava 361 - Copyhttps://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/2011-12-30-vienna-bratislava-359-copy.jpg2011 12 30 Vienna Bratislava 359 - Copyhttps://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/2011-12-30-vienna-bratislava-358-copy.jpg2011 12 30 Vienna Bratislava 358 - Copyhttps://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/2011-12-30-vienna-bratislava-357.jpg2011 12 30 Vienna Bratislava 357https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/2011-12-30-vienna-bratislava-355.jpg2011 12 30 Vienna Bratislava 355https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/2011-12-30-vienna-bratislava-354.jpg2011 12 30 Vienna Bratislava 354https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/2011-12-30-vienna-bratislava-353.jpg2011 12 30 Vienna Bratislava 353https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/2011-12-30-vienna-bratislava-352.jpg2011 12 30 Vienna Bratislava 352https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/2011-12-30-vienna-bratislava-351.jpg2011 12 30 Vienna Bratislava 351https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/2011-12-30-vienna-bratislava-344.jpg2011 12 30 Vienna Bratislava 3442012-01-24T14:57:45+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2012/01/23/bratislava-territorial-tiffs/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/2011-12-30-vienna-bratislava-364.jpg2011 12 30 Vienna Bratislava 364A monument to the Russians for "liberating" Slovakia from the Nazis. Yes, thank you very much. We appreciate your sacrifice, but "liberating" the Slovaks would mean setting them free, not putting them into a cage. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/2011-12-30-vienna-bratislava-314.jpg2011 12 30 Vienna Bratislava 314A fixer-upper!https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/2011-12-30-vienna-bratislava-234.jpg2011 12 30 Vienna Bratislava 234It will take more than a coat of paint to fix this. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/2011-12-30-vienna-bratislava-211.jpg2011 12 30 Vienna Bratislava 211An aptly named coffee shop. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/2011-12-30-vienna-bratislava-227.jpg2011 12 30 Vienna Bratislava 227Bratislava, seriously still messed up. 2012-01-23T15:01:17+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2012/01/21/bratislava-or-as-the-italians-call-it-brateeslaaaaaahva-it-sounds-nicer-that-way/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/2011-12-30-vienna-bratislava-191.jpg2011 12 30 Vienna Bratislava 191We've looked at a lot of statues in Europe, but never so many of someone getting their head twisted or clubbed as we saw in Austria and Slovakia. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/2011-12-30-vienna-bratislava-217.jpg2011 12 30 Vienna Bratislava 217The church on the right is closed for renovations, as were Bratislava's castle, opera house, and so forth. Bratislava recently halted some of its public transportation lines because they ran out of money. This is what no-democracy-no-gumption looks like. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/2011-12-30-vienna-bratislava-216.jpg2011 12 30 Vienna Bratislava 216Bratislava has polished some pieces of its historic quarter. Ironically, we found the shuttered buildings, broken bricks, and scary post-communist-era sites of more interest.https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/2011-12-30-vienna-bratislava-215.jpg2011 12 30 Vienna Bratislava 215Trying out local cuisine is de rigeur for many travellers, but not me. I can move on with my life knowing that I left unchawed smoked knee behind in Bratislava.2012-01-21T19:21:40+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2012/01/19/how-to-get-more-blog-hits-and-a-little-on-locked-churches/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/2011-12-30-vienna-bratislava-222.jpg2011 12 30 Vienna Bratislava 222This is what is outside. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/2011-12-30-vienna-bratislava-165.jpg2011 12 30 Vienna Bratislava 1652012-01-19T17:07:06+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2012/01/17/3382/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/2011-12-30-vienna-bratislava-164.jpg2011 12 30 Vienna Bratislava 164Aaron & Ginny Tredway2012-01-21T06:04:35+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2012/01/16/slick-st-stephens-cathedral/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/2011-12-30-vienna-bratislava-134.jpg2011 12 30 Vienna Bratislava 134Vienna's St. Stephen's Church https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/2011-12-30-vienna-bratislava-125.jpg2011 12 30 Vienna Bratislava 125https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/2011-12-30-vienna-bratislava-158.jpg2011 12 30 Vienna Bratislava 158https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/2011-12-30-vienna-bratislava-157.jpg2011 12 30 Vienna Bratislava 157https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/2011-12-30-vienna-bratislava-156.jpg2011 12 30 Vienna Bratislava 156https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/2011-12-30-vienna-bratislava-155.jpg2011 12 30 Vienna Bratislava 155https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/2011-12-30-vienna-bratislava-152.jpg2011 12 30 Vienna Bratislava 1522012-01-17T07:03:06+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2012/01/15/languishing-in-a-linguistic-laguna/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/2011-12-30-vienna-bratislava-120.jpg2011 12 30 Vienna Bratislava 120While were at the Vienna Opera House, the stage workers were prepping for an evening performance - the stage itself is an impressive engineering feat that is essentially a rotating elevator that can shift 40 tonnes 28 feet before and 10 feet above. This picture does not do justice to the size of the stage either. Those Viennese - where opera is concerned, they are not just kidding around. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/2011-12-30-vienna-bratislava-1181.jpg2011 12 30 Vienna Bratislava 118Don't be fooled by this photo. This blog post is not about the Vienna Opera House.https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/2011-12-30-vienna-bratislava-119.jpg2011 12 30 Vienna Bratislava 119Looking up at the Vienna Opera House. This photo has nothing to do with this blog post, but I am trying to get through all our holiday photos. 2012-01-16T10:37:37+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2012/01/13/vienna-the-beautiful/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/2011-12-30-vienna-bratislava-100.jpg2011 12 30 Vienna Bratislava 100We can't tell for sure, but we suspect someone is getting clubbed in this statue. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/2011-12-30-vienna-bratislava-095.jpg2011 12 30 Vienna Bratislava 095St. Peter's Church on the inside. Everytime we dropped in, there was a mass going on, but the Catholics were good enough to let tourists hang around in the back and watch. This is something I like about the Catholics. They let anybody in at any time. Nothing to hide here. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/2011-12-30-vienna-bratislava-0911.jpg2011 12 30 Vienna Bratislava 091St. Peter's Church. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/2011-12-30-vienna-bratislava-090.jpg2011 12 30 Vienna Bratislava 090In front of what we think was the Lipizzaner building (remember, we don't speak German, so had no real clue what we were looking at), was this dig of an early Roman settlement, along with several successive settlements through the ages. Pretty cool.https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/2011-12-30-vienna-bratislava-088.jpg2011 12 30 Vienna Bratislava 088Countless pairs of horses worked the streets of Vienna, always in matching colours. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/2011-12-30-vienna-bratislava-083.jpg2011 12 30 Vienna Bratislava 083When you have this many horses, they have to go through buildings sometimes.https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/2011-12-30-vienna-bratislava-082.jpg2011 12 30 Vienna Bratislava 082More statue clubbings going on at the Lipizzaner building. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/2011-12-30-vienna-bratislava-079-copy.jpg2011 12 30 Vienna Bratislava 079 - CopyI guess if you have a world-class stallion jumping/dressage act going on, you can afford to house it in a building like this. Vienna, it turns out, is the school for the Lipizzaner stallions. We had no idea, because they are so strongly associated with Andalucia. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/2011-12-30-vienna-bratislava-075.jpg2011 12 30 Vienna Bratislava 075Our timing was off, so we couldn't catch the Lipizzaner stallions show, or their morning workout (you can pay your way in) or the stable tour, but we did spy this stallion in the stables from the sidewalk. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/2011-12-30-vienna-bratislava-070.jpg2011 12 30 Vienna Bratislava 070As usual, we saw more statues hanging around the rooftops. The Austrians were just showing off. 2012-01-13T19:05:11+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2012/01/11/what-to-skip-on-your-trip/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/2011-12-30-vienna-bratislava-053.jpg2011 12 30 Vienna Bratislava 053A view of Vienna from the hill overlooking Schoenbrunn palace is beautiful, but could I have missed it? Yes. I could have. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/2011-12-30-vienna-bratislava-050.jpg2011 12 30 Vienna Bratislava 050I could have missed this, but I'm glad I didn't. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/2011-12-30-vienna-bratislava-049.jpg2011 12 30 Vienna Bratislava 049Could I have missed seeing the interior of the garden pavilion at Schoenbrunn? No, I could not. It has a restaurant in it, so I was compelled to enjoy its architecture (and good food).https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/2011-12-30-vienna-bratislava-042.jpg2011 12 30 Vienna Bratislava 042I am always glad to see any statue that was not created between 1940 and 2010. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/2011-12-30-vienna-bratislava-0321.jpg2011 12 30 Vienna Bratislava 032Apparent royal bathrooms are "must-sees." They are open for viewing in every palace or castle I can remember.2012-01-11T18:05:54+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2012/01/10/3315/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/2011-12-30-vienna-bratislava-063.jpg2011 12 30 Vienna Bratislava 063Dave emulates his economic-theorist hero Adam Smith. 2012-01-10T08:35:40+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2012/01/09/schoenbrunn-park/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/2011-12-30-vienna-bratislava-057.jpg2011 12 30 Vienna Bratislava 057An unimaginative, but informative perspective on Schoenbrunn's garden pavilion, which houses a very nice and surprisingly affordable restaurant. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/2011-12-30-vienna-bratislava-051.jpg2011 12 30 Vienna Bratislava 051When the Austrians say they want high ceilings, they mean high ceilings, dangit.https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/2011-12-30-vienna-bratislava-056.jpg2011 12 30 Vienna Bratislava 056Schoenbrunn's garden rises upward, so it gives a beautiful view of Vienna below.https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/2011-12-30-vienna-bratislava-047.jpg2011 12 30 Vienna Bratislava 047Solo statuary was sheathed against the weather, but the garden pavilion's scultpures were on display. 2012-01-09T09:33:25+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2012/01/08/schonbrunn-sights/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/2011-12-30-vienna-bratislava-038.jpg2011 12 30 Vienna Bratislava 038Sun paints shadows across the gravelly grounds. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/2011-12-30-vienna-bratislava-041.jpg2011 12 30 Vienna Bratislava 041Low sun in Schonbrunn gardens, which are criss-crossed with pathways wide and narrow - lovely to spend a whole day in.2012-01-08T18:30:39+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2012/01/07/backtracking-schonbrunn/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/2011-12-30-vienna-bratislava-037.jpg2011 12 30 Vienna Bratislava 037Yup. It is a palace, alright. This is one of Schonbrunn Palace's large ballrooms, and whThe Vienna summit was a summit meeting held on June 4, 1961 in Vienna, Austria between President John F. Kennedy of the United States and Premier Nikita Khrushchev of the Soviet Union. ere Kennedy signed a pact with Khruschevhttps://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/2011-12-30-vienna-bratislava-035.jpg2011 12 30 Vienna Bratislava 035Where Mozart performed before Austrian royalty. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/2011-12-30-vienna-bratislava-033.jpg2011 12 30 Vienna Bratislava 033If this were your "comfy" summer home furniture, you might name 11 children Maria, too.https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/2011-12-30-vienna-bratislava-032.jpg2011 12 30 Vienna Bratislava 032https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/2011-12-30-vienna-bratislava-027.jpg2011 12 30 Vienna Bratislava 027The palace was packed with stunning chandeliers. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/2011-12-30-vienna-bratislava-026.jpg2011 12 30 Vienna Bratislava 026The royal bed. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/2011-12-30-vienna-bratislava-022.jpg2011 12 30 Vienna Bratislava 022https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/2011-12-30-vienna-bratislava-021.jpg2011 12 30 Vienna Bratislava 021This is one of the palace's many woodstoves that is fed wood from the rear, so as not to mess with palace decor. These are huge - eight feet in height by my estimation. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/2011-12-30-vienna-bratislava-0171.jpg2011 12 30 Vienna Bratislava 017Schonbrunn Palace, Vienna. A pretty grand place that took over 1,000 servants to keep it's 1,440 rooms. And it's only a summer home. . 2012-01-07T13:54:58+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2012/01/06/zip-trips/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/2012-01-04-venice-183.jpg2012 01 04 Venice 183There are no motor vehicles on Venice or Murano avenues, so everything gets hauled by humans. This cart is designed to take stairs easily. It works beautifully.https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/2012-01-04-venice-162.jpg2012 01 04 Venice 162Even in the rain, Venice is beautiful.https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/2011-12-30-vienna-bratislava-324-e1325862096564.jpg2011 12 30 Vienna Bratislava 324This Slovakian hot chocolate can permanently alter a person's mood to "upbeat."https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/2012-01-04-venice-112.jpg2012 01 04 Venice 112No need to shovel snow on these 'streets,' but wouldn't it be fun if they froze over? It would be the greatest ice-skating in the world.https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/2012-01-04-venice-131.jpg2012 01 04 Venice 1312012-01-10T14:39:43+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2012/01/06/2012-01-04-venice-080/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/2012-01-04-venice-080.jpg2012 01 04 Venice 0802012-01-06T14:42:30+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2012/01/05/venice/2012-01-05T03:17:39+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2012/01/02/from-vienna-to-venice-or-is-the-other-way-around/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/2011-12-30-vienna-bratislava-118.jpg2011 12 30 Vienna Bratislava 118Inside Vienna's famous Opera House.https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/2011-12-30-vienna-bratislava-091.jpg2011 12 30 Vienna Bratislava 091St. Peter's Church in Vienna.https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/2011-12-30-vienna-bratislava-068-copy.jpg2011 12 30 Vienna Bratislava 068 - CopyVienna is still the city of horses and home of the Lipizanner stallion riding school.https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/2011-12-30-vienna-bratislava-045-copy.jpg2011 12 30 Vienna Bratislava 045 - CopyThe view from behind the Neptune statue (see header photo above) looking over Schonbrunn Palace and Viennahttps://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/2011-12-30-vienna-bratislava-046-copy.jpg2011 12 30 Vienna Bratislava 046 - CopyGarden pavilion at Schonbrunn Palace in Vienna, Austria2012-01-02T10:36:19+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2012/01/01/train-versus-plane/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/2011-12-30-vienna-bratislava-017.jpg2011 12 30 Vienna Bratislava 017Our first stop in Vienna: Schonbrunn Palace, where we arrived shortly after 8 a.m. due to our early morning train arrival. It turned out to be a good thing, because even in December, the place was filling up by the time we left a few hours later. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/2011-12-30-vienna-bratislava-004-e1325408323961.jpg2011 12 30 Vienna Bratislava 004Pack as lightly as possible for train travel. Even luxury compartments are small. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/2011-12-30-vienna-bratislava-012.jpg2011 12 30 Vienna Bratislava 012Dave in our "grande" train compartment complete with overhead windows. Small, but very comfy.2012-01-01T09:15:07+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2011/12/31/fuhrich-on-the-second-go/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/2011-12-30-vienna-bratislava-147.jpg2011 12 30 Vienna Bratislava 147Good food at Fuhrich - Weinerschnitzel.https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/2011-12-30-vienna-bratislava-145.jpg2011 12 30 Vienna Bratislava 145This is Fuhrich's upper dining room where we ate the first time we visited there. Grizelda would not allow us back upstairs on our second visit. 2011-12-31T21:17:44+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2011/12/31/one-restaurant-two-meals/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/2011-12-30-vienna-bratislava-146-e1325327692653.jpg2011 12 30 Vienna Bratislava 146With European cuisine, the secret is always in the sauce. Even remembering Fuhrich's creamy wine sauce from a "reduction" still makes my mouth water. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/2011-12-30-vienna-bratislava-148-e1325326212832.jpg2011 12 30 Vienna Bratislava 1482011-12-31T10:42:26+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2011/12/30/the-travails-of-travel/2011-12-30T10:25:15+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2011/12/25/christmas-without-the-clutter/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/2011-12-24-christmas-eve-church-service-005.jpg2011 12 24 Christmas Eve church service 005Daylight view of Biel/Bienne's Alstadt Reformed Churchhttps://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/2011-12-24-christmas-eve-church-service-003.jpg2011 12 24 Christmas Eve church service 003Mural at Biel/Bienne's Alstadt Reformed Churchhttps://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/2011-12-24-christmas-eve-church-service-007-e1324806825840.jpg2011 12 24 Christmas Eve church service 007The Christmas Eve congregation at Biel/Bienne's Alstadt Reformed Church, Dec. 24, 20112011-12-26T08:18:14+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2011/12/23/when-chinese-food-is-not-chinese/2011-12-25T11:02:01+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2011/12/22/could-this-be-a-swiss-recipe/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/2011-12-21-curry-mango-chicken-002.jpg2011 12 21 curry mango chicken 002This tastes better than it looks. 2011-12-25T09:39:56+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2011/12/20/so-i-walked-into-a-swiss-bank-with-a-fistful-of-cash/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/2011-12-20-007-e1324397707404.jpg2011 12 20 007https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/2011-12-20-008-e1324397500187.jpg2011 12 20 008The seagulls can't push the mallards out from the under the bridge, so they are ticked.https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/2011-12-20-006-e1324397200373.jpg2011 12 20 0062011-12-20T16:20:01+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2011/12/19/drunk-grabs-girl-dave-grabs-drunk/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/2011-11-02-biel-004.jpg2011 11 02 Biel 004Ludwig: The town's leading drunk ramps up his abrasiveness. 2011-12-19T18:31:11+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2011/12/18/unlauded-swiss-chocolatier-gives-the-germans-a-run-for-the-title/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/2011-12-17-biel-snow-036.jpg2011 12 17 Biel + snow 036Another fallen tree. Ho hum. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/2011-12-17-biel-snow-035.jpg2011 12 17 Biel + snow 035A huge storm blew through Switzerland on Friday, bringing down large trees. We had to climb over/under a few on the way down the Jura slopes.https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/2011-12-17-biel-snow-034.jpg2011 12 17 Biel + snow 034Looking down to Biel's Alstadt (old town). At least, we think it's the old town. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/2011-12-17-biel-snow-031.jpg2011 12 17 Biel + snow 031Dad pulling child uphill, working on his first major coronary. It's a serious slope. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/2011-12-17-biel-snow-030.jpg2011 12 17 Biel + snow 030The street sidewalks are narrow, but happily the Swiss have lots of off-road pathways. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/2011-12-17-biel-snow-029.jpg2011 12 17 Biel + snow 029Dave loves walking in snow. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/2011-12-17-biel-snow-026.jpg2011 12 17 Biel + snow 026A garage that Dave says is too heavily ornamented for its function.https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/2011-12-17-biel-snow-022.jpg2011 12 17 Biel + snow 022Bubble gum in cigarette-style packaging. That explains all the smokers we see everywhere we go.https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/2011-12-17-biel-snow-021.jpg2011 12 17 Biel + snow 021Mmmm, lard is on sale!https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/2011-12-17-biel-snow-018.jpg2011 12 17 Biel + snow 018Looking down the from the slopes of Jura Mountain range. Town of Biel/Bienne below. 2011-12-18T11:29:20+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2011/12/17/going-around-the-bend/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/2011-12-10-le-landeron-le-neuville-056.jpg2011 12 10 Le Landeron + Le Neuville 056Not enough time to make an all-out Christmas door decoration? Chuck some shiny orbs into the planter. It works! https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/2011-12-10-le-landeron-le-neuville-048.jpg2011 12 10 Le Landeron + Le Neuville 048A little paint, a round disk suspended by some fishing line and voila! https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/2011-12-10-le-landeron-le-neuville-047.jpg2011 12 10 Le Landeron + Le Neuville 047Le Neuville's village streets have Christmas trees decorated in handmade ornaments.https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/2011-12-10-le-landeron-le-neuville-045.jpg2011 12 10 Le Landeron + Le Neuville 045Two stories up, Santa's escape plan hits a snag. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/2011-12-10-le-landeron-le-neuville-043.jpg2011 12 10 Le Landeron + Le Neuville 043Faux candles made up painted re-used plastic peanut butter jars (or something). https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/2011-12-10-le-landeron-le-neuville-041.jpg2011 12 10 Le Landeron + Le Neuville 041A Christmas planter box on a fence bordering an outdoor cafe. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/2011-12-10-le-landeron-le-neuville-037.jpg2011 12 10 Le Landeron + Le Neuville 037Paint and soup cans get a new life as tree decorations.https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/2011-12-10-le-landeron-le-neuville-032.jpg2011 12 10 Le Landeron + Le Neuville 032The Swiss are geniuses at making an ordinary lane look enchanting.https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/2011-12-10-le-landeron-le-neuville-029.jpg2011 12 10 Le Landeron + Le Neuville 029David: Thrilled to find yet another tourist office closed on a Saturday. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/2011-12-10-le-landeron-le-neuville-028.jpg2011 12 10 Le Landeron + Le Neuville 028Window decorations went from posh to rustic. It was all good.2011-12-17T11:03:20+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2011/12/16/whistling-winds/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/2011-12-16-swiss-storm-010-e1324048795507.jpg2011 12 16 swiss storm 010The only safe place for an umbrella in Storm Joachim. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/2011-12-16-swiss-storm-006-e1324048676425.jpg2011 12 16 swiss storm 006It's a storm? Let me at it!https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/2011-12-16-swiss-storm-014-e1324047989112.jpg2011 12 16 swiss storm 014Santa's in trouble! 2011-12-17T09:32:20+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2011/12/14/mugging-for-coffee/2011-12-14T18:31:03+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/contact/2011-12-13T01:46:18+00:00weekly0.6https://hobonotes.com/2011/12/12/christmas-market-in-our-little-town/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/2011-12-08-biel-christmas-market-033.jpg2011 12 08 Biel Christmas Market 033This is a cauldron of gluhwein (mulled wine) over an open fire, sitting in a bed of wood chips and evergreen boughs, surrounded by around 200 people drinking the gluhvein, under large canopies. What could possibly go wrong? https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/2011-12-08-biel-christmas-market-039-e1323716998442.jpg2011 12 08 Biel Christmas Market 039Not ghosts, not at all. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/2011-12-08-biel-christmas-market-034.jpg2011 12 08 Biel Christmas Market 034Some day, this photo will appear on some "ghost" website, alleging ghosts walk the streets of Biel/Bienne. Note: Not ghosts. Just a slow shutter on moving targets on a dark street. 2011-12-14T11:44:06+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2011/12/10/stand-off-in-zurich-street-how-the-swiss-argue-quietly-with-dignity-and-patience/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/2011-12-03-biel-zurich-074.jpg2011 12 03 biel + zurich 074Drama on Zurich streets: Two driver squabble over a parking space. The man standing outside the car has left his SUV in the middle of the road to confront the driver in the car who darted in front of him to "steal" the spot. They both appeared willing to wait it out indefinitely, but then a spot opened up nearby and the man standing took it. Just to be clear, the driver seated in the car in this photo is the jerk. Moral justice: When he got his car into his spot, he and his wife were unable to get out because the spot was too tight for their vehicle. We didn't stick around to see what he did next because I took photos throughout the exchange and did not want to get punched out by the driver when and if he did ever get out of this car. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/2011-12-03-biel-zurich-064-e1323513263657.jpg2011 12 03 biel + zurich 064A view across the Limmat River, looking on St. Peter Church clock tower, built in 1534 that 8.7 metres across is said to be the largest church clock tower. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/2011-12-03-biel-zurich-069-e1323513140984.jpg2011 12 03 biel + zurich 069Looking across the bridge (in shadow) toward Grosse Munster in Zurich. 2011-12-10T16:39:11+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2011/12/09/naughty-or-nice-on-zurichs-streets/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/2011-12-03-biel-zurich-045-e1323443054801.jpg2011 12 03 biel + zurich 045Santa has an evil twin! https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/2011-12-03-biel-zurich-047.jpg2011 12 03 biel + zurich 047The Swiss are a fun, friendly people, even when they roam the streets beating people with sticks. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/2011-12-03-biel-zurich-044.jpg2011 12 03 biel + zurich 044Watch out, kiddies, you might get a SMACK! 2011-12-10T10:15:45+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2011/12/08/big-city-lights/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/2011-12-03-biel-zurich-057.jpg2011 12 03 biel + zurich 057A posh outdoor cafe in Zurich.https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/2011-12-03-biel-zurich-058.jpg2011 12 03 biel + zurich 058https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/2011-12-03-biel-zurich-054.jpg2011 12 03 biel + zurich 054Light's appear to float above a Zurich old-town lane. The lights are hung pendant-style on lines that dangle from cables strung between buildings on either side of the street. They look like giant fireflies when they move in the breeze. 2011-12-08T10:11:22+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2011/12/07/reporters-secret-about-christmas-markets-get-out-of-town/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/2011-12-03-biel-zurich-028-e1323250736810.jpg2011 12 03 biel + zurich 028Life-size Christmas models top a children's carousel at Zurich's Christmas Market. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/2011-12-03-biel-zurich-032-e1323250170686.jpg2011 12 03 biel + zurich 032Christmas decorations at the Zurich market.https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/2011-12-03-biel-zurich-031-e1323249567567.jpg2011 12 03 biel + zurich 0312011-12-07T09:45:37+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2011/12/06/fruity-fruit/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/2011-12-06-pears-xmas-007.jpg2011 12 06 pears xmas 007https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/2011-12-06-pears-xmas-006-e1323174824642.jpg2011 12 06 pears xmas 0062011-12-06T15:02:53+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2011/12/05/christmas-markets-here-and-there/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/2011-12-03-biel-zurich-026.jpg2011 12 03 biel + zurich 026Swavorski-jewelled Christmas tree. Who is the star in this display?https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/2011-12-03-biel-zurich-041-e1323076388495.jpg2011 12 03 biel + zurich 041Zurich Christmas Market - like any other market, but with boughs and lights. 2011-12-05T19:12:20+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2011/12/04/swiss-parliament-legalizes-illegal-downloading/2011-12-04T14:01:10+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2011/12/03/its-saturday-saturday/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/2011-11-26-steve-interlaken-bern-036.jpg2011 11 26 Steve Interlaken Bern 036You can access Murren on either side by gondola and a cute little train ride, but you can always walk between either access points. This is the trail between Murren and the Lauterbrunnen gondola station. It is an easy walk with only mild grades and goes through some forest that looks a lot like Vancouver Island's Galloping Goose. A wheelchair could make this trip with just a little help over some rough patches.https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/2011-11-26-steve-interlaken-bern-029.jpg2011 11 26 Steve Interlaken Bern 029This was our second time strolling through the village of Murren. It was almost December and we expected snow, but saw none but that which topped the mountains. The ski hills are reported to be dry, choking the Swiss economy which is already battling the woes of having a strong currency in a weak market.https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/2011-11-26-steve-interlaken-bern-028.jpg2011 11 26 Steve Interlaken Bern 028Murren: We think this is a charming way to decorate a ski cabin. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/2011-11-26-steve-interlaken-bern-025.jpg2011 11 26 Steve Interlaken Bern 025The mountain-clinging village of Murren is full of sturdy-timbered chalets that look exactly as you would expect them to, but this one. This one is a little sloppy compared to the rest.https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/2011-11-26-steve-interlaken-bern-014.jpg2011 11 26 Steve Interlaken Bern 014Here is a Swiss mountain. As Bernese Mountain Dogs are my witness, I do not know its name.2011-12-03T08:53:47+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2011/12/02/we-are-like-the-bushes-but-not/2011-12-02T10:23:03+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2011/12/01/import-joys/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/2011-12-01-shoes-shopping-007.jpg2011 12 01 shoes shopping 007O beloved affordable shoes, where art thou? https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/2011-12-01-shoes-shopping-001-e1322736523961.jpg2011 12 01 shoes shopping 0012011-12-01T11:58:42+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2011/11/30/the-third-space/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/n607211049_1577589_8868-e1322652446151.jpgn607211049_1577589_8868Stand still for longer than two seconds and you run the risk of being grabbed and festooned. This is actually a mild form of dog-decorating. We used to outfit our yellow lab in a complete harness of bells, antlers, etc.https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/151015_458992651049_607211049_6110540_5587378_n-e1322651603530.jpg151015_458992651049_607211049_6110540_5587378_nEven our neighbour's dogs are not safe from my decorating mania. Deck the dogs in boughs of woolens, fa la la la la, la la la la.https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/2011-11-28-xmas-lights-biel-002.jpg2011 11 28 xmas lights biel 002"Our" Christmas decorations this year are bigger than basketballs! https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/2011-11-28-xmas-lights-biel-0011-e1322650682380.jpg2011 11 28 xmas lights biel 001We call "dibbs" on this tree in our town square. It's our biggest yet! 2011-11-30T18:39:12+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2011/11/29/timid-traveller-at-the-halfway-point-sort-of/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/2011-11-26-steve-interlaken-bern-051-e1322562532971.jpg2011 11 26 Steve Interlaken Bern 051The steep cliffs in Lauterbrunnen. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/2011-11-26-steve-interlaken-bern-027.jpg2011 11 26 Steve Interlaken Bern 027More mountains. Ugh.https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/2011-11-26-steve-interlaken-bern-014.jpg2011 11 26 Steve Interlaken Bern 014I admit the scenery is pretty spectacular. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/2011-11-26-steve-interlaken-bern-040-e1322560603476.jpg2011 11 26 Steve Interlaken Bern 040Oh not much, except maybe falling off a cliff. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/2011-11-26-steve-interlaken-bern-023.jpg2011 11 26 Steve Interlaken Bern 023Steve: We're on a mountainside. What could go wrong? 2011-11-29T18:38:46+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/what-others-say-about-jo/2012-06-29T19:12:14+00:00weekly0.6https://hobonotes.com/10-things-to-know-before-you-go/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/2012-01-04-venice-133.jpg2012 01 04 Venice 133The waterways and lanes are so jagged, it's easy to get lost, even when paying attention to the map.https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/2012-01-04-venice-087.jpg2012 01 04 Venice 087San Marco Campo - or as we might call it, San Marco Square or Plaza. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/2012-01-04-venice-115.jpg2012 01 04 Venice 115More gondolas that we could shake a stick at. 2011-11-29T18:18:25+00:00weekly0.6https://hobonotes.com/2011/11/15/my-beloved-niece-and-random-travels/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/2011-10-29-river-gorge-walk-046.jpg2011 10 29 River gorge walk 046Autumn is a lovely time to walk Taubenloch. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/2011-10-29-river-gorge-walk-020.jpg2011 10 29 River gorge walk 020Tauberloch is full of tunnels and caves, some natural, some carved. Locals tell us caves were/are used as potential sniping points in case of invasion, and are also used to stockpile weapons all over Switzerland, which does not have an army per se as the entire male population is required to take military training and serve 3 weeks a year until age 34, or something like that.https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/2011-10-29-river-gorge-walk-082.jpg2011 10 29 River gorge walk 082The prospect of this stone ceiling caving in on us did not bother Dave's coworker, Mike. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/2011-10-29-river-gorge-walk-042.jpg2011 10 29 River gorge walk 042Check out the metal railing, bowed by falling rock. The Swiss know how to add excitement to a cliff-side trail. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/2011-10-29-river-gorge-walk-055.jpg2011 10 29 River gorge walk 055The Taubenloch gorge trail criss-crosses the Suze River as it falls from the Jura Mountains down into Lac Biel/Bienne.https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/2011-10-29-river-gorge-walk-007.jpg2011 10 29 River gorge walk 007Now this is a proper Swiss "river," running straight and orderly as all Swiss waterways should. Note: An untamed creek/river ran alongside it. The Swiss are not to be outdone, they will have every kind of waterway.2011-11-29T18:12:38+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2011/11/24/sledding-in-switzerland/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/001-e1322149470494.jpg001A Biel/Bienne bike.https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/002-e1322148535650.jpg002Swiss sleds2011-11-29T18:10:47+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2011/11/25/things-you-learn-on-the-street/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/2011-11-24-biel-xmas-lights-018-e1322205937983.jpg2011 11 24 biel xmas lights 0182011-11-29T18:10:32+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2011/11/26/shameless-puppy-posting/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/2011-11-26-steve-interlaken-bern-030-e1322346419950.jpg2011 11 26 Steve Interlaken Bern 030Puppies frolic at Murren Cafe Bistro.2011-11-29T18:10:18+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2011/11/27/how-you-view-terrorist-activity-is-sometimes-a-matter-of-proximity/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/p8240755_2.jpgHow you view terrorist activity is sometimes a matter of proximity2011-11-29T18:10:04+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2011/11/28/bern-is-not-all-about-bombs/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/2011-11-26-steve-interlaken-bern-062.jpg2011 11 26 Steve Interlaken Bern 062The Swiss parliament building in Bern, just before the laser light show begins. 2011-11-29T18:09:11+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2011/11/26/tapping-out-a-novel-in-under-a-month-and-the-joys-of-rewriting/2011-11-26T08:01:17+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2011/11/26/fridays-dining-part-two/2011-11-27T10:33:26+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2011/11/22/second-stops-in-the-small-spots-of-switzerland/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/2011-11-12-olten-solothurn-083-e1321972105969.jpg2011 11 12 Olten + Solothurn 083Switzerland has a little of everything, including Christian martyrs that the Romans beheaded in the 3rd century, and who are remembered in statuary at St. Ursen Kathdrale.https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/2011-11-12-olten-solothurn-058-e1321971800193.jpg2011 11 12 Olten + Solothurn 058https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/2011-11-12-olten-solothurn-051.jpg2011 11 12 Olten + Solothurn 051Just another quiet church music rehearsal. 2011-11-23T08:43:18+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2011/11/18/rappelling-swiss-canals/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/2011-11-18-bike-from-canal-001-e1321628468155.jpg2011 11 18 bike from canal 001Swiss workers kSwiss workers know how to have fun on the job. This man is one of a team of city workers who rappelled down a canal wall when there was a perfectly good staircase nearby. The bike was retrieved from the canal, a favorite chucking-out point for bike thieves (or maybe the bike owners themselves discard their rides in this way, perhaps fed up with the European cycling stereotype).2011-11-18T15:25:02+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2011/11/17/heartbreaking-timepieces/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/2011-11-17-watches-001-e1321529666772.jpg2011 11 17 watches 001Watches watches everywhere and not a digital face to buy.2011-11-17T11:38:46+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2011/11/14/olten/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/2011-11-12-olten-solothurn-035-e1321214991968.jpg2011 11 12 Olten + Solothurn 035Olten is not without its charms.https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/2011-11-12-olten-solothurn-016-e1321215580579.jpg2011 11 12 Olten + Solothurn 016When a town's public art is mostly flat concrete-cast figures, it is time to start again.Ugh.https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/2011-11-12-olten-solothurn-003.jpg2011 11 12 Olten + Solothurn 003Olten painted house - when graffiti could legitimately be called art. 2011-11-14T10:20:10+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2011/11/12/sick-saturday/2011-11-12T11:08:26+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2011/11/11/a-few-more-photos-from-thun-switzerlands-overlooked-city-a-note-on-crime/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/2011-11-08-thun-058.jpg2011 11 08 Thun 058Switzerland is like Victoria, B.C., Canada for its large trees. Holy dynamite, Batman! That's a big one. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/2011-11-08-thun-0791.jpg2011 11 08 Thun 079Covered walkway over a river dam at Thun, over the River Aar.https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/2011-11-08-thun-063.jpg2011 11 08 Thun 063The Swiss even make car parks look pretty. They are a wonderful people.https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/2011-11-08-thun-065.jpg2011 11 08 Thun 065The Swiss idea for a garage along a river. This was off a little creek just a few metres from the River Aar - it was full of wood boats. Lovely.https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/2011-11-08-thun-071.jpg2011 11 08 Thun 071Sailing at Lac Thun on a beautiful November day.2011-11-18T11:38:58+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2011/11/10/thun-beautiful-but-often-ignored/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/2011-11-08-thun-064.jpg2011 11 08 Thun 064Thun. Ugh. What a horrible place. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/2011-11-08-thun-047-e1320863107575.jpg2011 11 08 Thun 047Thun has spectacular views of the Bernese mountains, including Jungfrau.https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/2011-11-08-thun-041.jpg2011 11 08 Thun 041Once you make it up the steep stairs leading to the castle, you're rewarded with a maze of these lovely cozy walled cobblestone lanes.https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/2011-11-08-thun-001.jpg2011 11 08 Thun 001If this were Winnipeg, the residents would be sandbagging like mad. But it's not. It's Europe and so having water right up to the building's foundations is just fine.2011-11-10T14:32:16+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2011/11/09/music-that-needs-to-be-explained-along-with-the-wreckless-abandon-of-the-swiss/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/2011-11-08-thun-009-e1320834929313.jpg2011 11 08 Thun 009What is this swan thinking? Swans usually paddle languidly through calm waters, but this one must have been a teenager thrilling to the dangers of Thun's fast-moving waters. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/2011-11-08-thun-015-e1320833705151.jpg2011 11 08 Thun 015The castle in Thun against a lovely blue sky.2011-11-09T13:35:33+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2011/11/08/more-street-talent/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/2011-10-15-biel-rob-van-wely-004-e1320746070929.jpg2011 10 15 Biel Rob van Wely 004Rob van Wely and his travelling audience. 2011-11-08T10:08:17+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2011/11/05/sinking-to-new-lows-in-the-kitchen/2011-11-06T17:29:11+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2011/11/03/leaving-leipzig/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/2011-10-20-berlin-leipzig-087-e1320329014119.jpg2011 10 20 Berlin & Leipzig 087Leipzig, a past that is dark and light. An amazing place, and worth the trip. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/2011-10-20-berlin-leipzig-083.jpg2011 10 20 Berlin & Leipzig 083If I had learned German instead of French, I would know what this inset statuary is all about at Thomaskirche. As it is, I don't know a thing.https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/2011-10-20-berlin-leipzig-099.jpg2011 10 20 Berlin & Leipzig 099Bach's burial site in the austere Thomaskirche. We hung around outside the building one night, listening to an organ playing. Most of the lights were out, and the church was dark. It was beautiful and haunting.https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/2011-10-20-berlin-leipzig-089.jpg2011 10 20 Berlin & Leipzig 089Bach statue outside of Thomaskirche where he is buried. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/2011-10-20-berlin-leipzig-189-e1320328316631.jpg2011 10 20 Berlin & Leipzig 189Leipzig's Astoria hotel, a grand old dam now in serious disrepair. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/2011-10-20-berlin-leipzig-023-e1320328116230.jpg2011 10 20 Berlin & Leipzig 023The Berlin "Wall" as it appeared around the time my father tried to cross into West Berlin. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/2011-10-20-berlin-leipzig-073.jpg2011 10 20 Berlin & Leipzig 073Leipzig Nikolaikirche, the birthplace of the teardown of the Berlin Wall.2011-11-05T22:39:14+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2011/11/04/still-trying-to-figure-out-this-country-the-sweet-and-the-sour/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/2011-10-06-biel-signs-and-night-shots-021.jpg2011 10 06 biel signs and night shots 021Biel the beautiful.https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/2011-11-02-biel-004.jpg2011 11 02 Biel 0042011-11-04T19:57:11+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2011/11/03/still-playing-with-the-blog-settings/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/hp-laptop1.jpgStill playing with the blog settings2011-11-03T10:53:41+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2011/10/19/morning-in-leipzig/2011-11-03T08:14:37+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2011/11/02/lovely-affordable-leipzig/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/2011-10-20-berlin-leipzig-114.jpg2011 10 20 Berlin & Leipzig 114Night dining in the rain at "Barf Street" - my translation of this Germanesque-tagged avenue. It is absolutely fabulous. Do not miss this spot if you're in Leipzig.https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/2011-10-20-berlin-leipzig-026.jpg2011 10 20 Berlin & Leipzig 026https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/2011-10-20-berlin-leipzig-194.jpg2011 10 20 Berlin & Leipzig 194San Remos vegetarian ravioli 2011-11-02T11:38:41+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2011/11/01/crossing-the-rhine-at-basel/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/2011-10-08-basel-030.jpg2011 10 08 Basel 030https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/2011-10-08-basel-031.jpg2011 10 08 Basel 031From inside the fahri - passengers sit on wooden benches around the edge of the boat - a few are inside a cabin, but most are outside, so if it's raining, prepare to get wet. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/2011-10-08-basel-028.jpg2011 10 08 Basel 028Rhine ferry-crossing.2011-11-01T11:12:57+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2011/10/31/hallowhine/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/2011-10-29-river-gorge-walk-007.jpg2011 10 29 River gorge walk 007This photo has nothing to do with the subject of this blog post. 2011-10-31T19:29:29+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2011/10/29/leipzig-zoo-better-than-youd-think/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/2011-10-20-berlin-leipzig-170-e1319904840328.jpg2011 10 20 Berlin & Leipzig 170Fun climbing structures of all types are placed throughout the grounds. The kids loved them. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/2011-10-20-berlin-leipzig-162.jpg2011 10 20 Berlin & Leipzig 162This is a South American wolf. It very much resembled a fox with very long legs and was as big as large German Shepherd, maybe even bigger. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/2011-10-20-berlin-leipzig-160.jpg2011 10 20 Berlin & Leipzig 160I didn't get a full count of the giraffes but there were lots of them. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/2011-10-20-berlin-leipzig-159.jpg2011 10 20 Berlin & Leipzig 159https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/2011-10-20-berlin-leipzig-158.jpg2011 10 20 Berlin & Leipzig 158See the hyena? https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/2011-10-20-berlin-leipzig-156.jpg2011 10 20 Berlin & Leipzig 156You had to watch your step. Some places were designed to look like natural stone and that included unmarked gaps. Ouch. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/2011-10-20-berlin-leipzig-155.jpg2011 10 20 Berlin & Leipzig 155https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/2011-10-20-berlin-leipzig-151.jpg2011 10 20 Berlin & Leipzig 151Two giraffes vie for a choice mouthful of greenery within a few feet of the viewing deck. Zebras and other ungulate species as well as ostriches shared the sweeping pastures.. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/2011-10-20-berlin-leipzig-147.jpg2011 10 20 Berlin & Leipzig 147The zoo doesn't mind having swampy grounds. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/2011-10-20-berlin-leipzig-146.jpg2011 10 20 Berlin & Leipzig 146The zoo is a forest.2011-10-30T08:25:01+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2011/10/26/trains-planes-and-automobiles-to-leipzig/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/2011-10-20-berlin-leipzig-001.jpg2011 10 20 Berlin & Leipzig 001This cannabis drink was in the vending machine at the Zurich airport. We are at a loss to explain this. No. We did not buy any. I have enough trouble keeping things straight without wandering away from sobriety.2011-10-27T10:21:39+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2011/10/25/swimming-in-the-rhine/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/2011-10-08-basel-024.jpg2011 10 08 Basel 024Swim here if you like/dare.https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/2011-10-08-basel-023-e1319547204568.jpg2011 10 08 Basel 023Some signs you ignore at your own peril. This is one of them. 2011-10-25T16:35:00+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2011/10/21/chocolate-champions/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/2011-10-20-berlin-leipzig-197-e1319217224688.jpg2011 10 20 Berlin & Leipzig 197https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/2011-10-20-berlin-leipzig-202.jpg2011 10 20 Berlin & Leipzig 202https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/2011-10-20-berlin-leipzig-107-e1319212491775.jpg2011 10 20 Berlin & Leipzig 107German chocolatier working at his craft. 2011-11-17T22:20:16+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2011/10/19/german-versus-swiss-versus-french-versus-canadian-chocolate-who-wins/2011-10-20T16:21:39+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2011/10/18/high-stakes-games-on-the-roads-of-berlin-east-germany/2011-10-19T06:28:38+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2011/10/16/berlin/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/2011-10-16-apt-003.jpg2011 10 16 apt 003Dave working on our trip to Germany.2011-10-16T15:46:05+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2011/10/14/getting-lost-in-20000-easy-steps/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/2011-10-08-basel-056.jpg2011 10 08 Basel 056Basel Spalen city gate dating back to sometime between 1080 and 1398.2011-10-14T18:09:43+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2011/10/13/bi-polar-basel/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/2011-10-08-basel-041-e1318502665101.jpg2011 10 08 Basel 041Shard from the pre-earthquake church that stood on this site. We don't know what that inscription is beneath it - possibly it marks a crypt. If you speak German or Latin, please enlighten us.https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/2011-10-08-basel-039-e1318346510427.jpg2011 10 08 Basel 039Jesus with a shovel. Someone please explain this to me.https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/2011-10-08-basel-021.jpg2011 10 08 Basel 021Looking south from the strange bridge and it's like being in a different century, as well as a different city.https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/2011-10-08-basel-020-e1318346255565.jpg2011 10 08 Basel 020Looking north from a bridge over the River Rhine. 2011-10-13T10:50:55+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2011/10/12/street-talent/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/2011-10-08-basel-014-e1318344988146.jpg2011 10 08 Basel 014The Kuziem Singers in Basel, Oct. 20112011-10-12T10:16:42+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2011/10/10/on-thanksgiving-nazis-and-political-campaigns/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/2011-10-08-basel-075-e1318235349594.jpg2011 10 08 Basel 075Campaign poster in Basel, Switzerland, October 20112011-10-11T16:19:03+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2011/10/11/alarming-art-in-basel/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/2011-10-08-basel-074-e1318256666978.jpg2011 10 08 Basel 074Dave, pretending to paint a Salvadore Dali painting. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/2011-10-08-basel-063-e1318256283604.jpg2011 10 08 Basel 063Dave trying out Rodin-inspired man-yoga move. 2011-10-11T11:37:29+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2011/10/09/swiss-air-quality-not-as-pure-as-the-government-says/2011-10-09T08:46:43+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2011/10/07/swiss-train-crash-gives-us-the-heeby-jeebies/2011-10-07T18:33:58+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2011/10/07/breaking-into-pieces/2011-10-07T05:56:48+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2011/10/05/normal-neighhbourhoods-in-switzerland-nidau/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/2011-10-02-nidau-river-walk-015.jpg2011 10 02 nidau river walk 015Next door, a sign of the times: All new residential construction in Biel favors the Frank Lloyd Wright-esque flat style. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/2011-10-02-nidau-river-walk-018.jpg2011 10 02 nidau river walk 018Gated properties give off the usual ostentatious air. The gardens were beautiful.https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/2011-10-02-nidau-river-walk-017.jpg2011 10 02 nidau river walk 017https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/2011-10-02-nidau-river-walk-016.jpg2011 10 02 nidau river walk 016A classic upscale riverfront Swiss home in Nidau. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/2011-10-01-biel-walkaround-0041.jpg2011-10-01-biel-walkaround-0041.jpgNidau's ghost-town retail district on a Saturday afternoon. Eerily quiet, but charming and laidback.https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/2011-10-01-biel-walkaround-0061.jpg2011 NidauWhat would Switzerland be without shutters?2011-10-07T10:43:16+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2011/10/03/pilcrow-theme/2011-10-03T19:30:52+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2011/10/03/packing-drugs-across-borders-for-the-middle-age-set/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/2011-10-01-biel-walkaround-013-e1317667223132.jpg2011 10 01 biel walkaround 013A sign of the times - Over 50, will travel with meds. 2011-10-03T18:49:02+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2011/10/02/the-cute-kitchen/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/2011-10-02-honey-pineapple-chicken-001.jpg2011 10 02 honey pineapple chicken 001The chicken should be about this colour when you turn it, but really, it doesn't matter. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/2011-10-02-honey-pineapple-chicken-003.jpg2011 10 02 honey pineapple chicken 003Honeyed Pineapple Chicken2011-10-04T22:19:43+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2011/10/02/viva-chateau/2011-10-04T22:16:36+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2011/10/02/looking-for-your-thoughts/2011-10-02T16:40:17+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2011/09/30/re-entry/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/2011-09-29-026-e1317416114680.jpg2011 09 29 026Soldier with gun slung across his back. At least he has no trouble carrying it when he's walking, but it's another story when he's looking for a place to put it down. 2011-10-01T00:19:39+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2011/07/02/a-festival-and-a-farewell/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/2011-07-02-biel-baderezeie-music-festival-067-e1309615918406.jpg2011 07 02 Biel Baderezeie music festival 067Here's something you don't see enough of in North American festivals: Flower auctions. This man held a large audience's attention auctioning off flowers and bouquets. His audience was larger than some musician's. Go figure. Here a customer buys a few orchid-type flowers. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/2011-07-02-biel-baderezeie-music-festival-089-e1309615734120.jpg2011 07 02 Biel Baderezeie music festival 089When cooking for thousands, bring a large frying pan. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/2011-07-02-biel-baderezeie-music-festival-082-e1309615514444.jpg2011 07 02 Biel Baderezeie music festival 082Biel/Bienne music festival and carnival hits town. 2011-07-04T16:08:18+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2011/07/01/the-top-of-europe-not-quite/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/2011-06-25-jungfrau-mannheim-trail-147.jpg2011 06 25 Jungfrau Mannheim trail 147Good-bye to the Swiss Alps. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/2011-06-25-jungfrau-mannheim-trail-1431.jpg2011 06 25 Jungfrau Mannheim trail 143The roof on this mountainside cabin appeared to be made of irregular shale sheets. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/2011-06-25-jungfrau-mannheim-trail-133.jpg2011 06 25 Jungfrau Mannheim trail 133We did not expect to find a Canadian icon at the end of the Kleine-Scheidegg trail. What the heck - teepees!https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/2011-06-25-jungfrau-mannheim-trail-128.jpg2011 06 25 Jungfrau Mannheim trail 128This house needs a new coat of paint, but there's no denying the occupants enjoy a lovely view. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/2011-06-25-jungfrau-mannheim-trail-107.jpg2011 06 25 Jungfrau Mannheim trail 107More heavy equipment along the Kleine-Scheidegg trail - this one looks a little worse for wear. What the heck - are the Swiss using the Alps as a backhoe-graveyard?https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/2011-06-25-jungfrau-mannheim-trail-106.jpg2011 06 25 Jungfrau Mannheim trail 106https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/2011-06-25-jungfrau-mannheim-trail-105.jpg2011 06 25 Jungfrau Mannheim trail 105The rare Alpenkuchenschelle flower. I did not make that name up. Another hiker with a flower guide book let me photograph the page identifying this rare blossom. At least, she told me it was rare. The book was in German, so I couldn't verify anything, but she looked honest. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/2011-06-25-jungfrau-mannheim-trail-101.jpg2011 06 25 Jungfrau Mannheim trail 101https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/2011-06-25-jungfrau-mannheim-trail-062.jpg2011 06 25 Jungfrau Mannheim trail 062Heading down Kleine-Scheidegg.https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/2011-06-25-jungfrau-mannheim-trail-059.jpg2011 06 25 Jungfrau Mannheim trail 059Looking south from Mannlichenbaln look-out toward the Lauterbrunnen valley, which you may notice has nearly perfect vertical walls. It is the site of 10 beautiful waterfalls, as well as the Trummelbach falls, which we hope to visit. 2011-07-02T14:32:56+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2011/06/30/watch-your-step/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/2011-06-25-jungfrau-mannheim-trail-098-e1309431281585.jpg2011 06 25 Jungfrau Mannheim trail 098Dave does not trust me near steep drops. Yes, he is right to not trust me. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/2011-06-25-jungfrau-mannheim-trail-097.jpg2011 06 25 Jungfrau Mannheim trail 097Kleine-Scheidegg trail, Swiss Alps, Jungfrau regionhttps://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/2011-06-25-jungfrau-mannheim-trail-087-e1309429043416.jpg2011 06 25 Jungfrau Mannheim trail 087Every time Dave sees an Inukshuk, he threatens to kick it down. It is his schoolboy playfulness that makes him say that, but as soon as he got within range of a stone-statue field at Kleine-Scheidegg, he started fixing broken statues. What the heck!?https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/2011-06-25-jungfrau-mannheim-trail-117-e1309428752186.jpg2011 06 25 Jungfrau Mannheim trail 117We did not expect to see cyclists up on the Kleine Scheidegg trail, but there they were, introducing us another Swiss national oddity - they brought the Red Cross to the world, making us think they are a cautious accident-adverse people. They are not. They are adventurous and not very safety-minded at all, which makes sense - it is how they got so good at responding to disasters. They make so many of their own to start with, offering them plenty of training opportunities.https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/2011-06-25-jungfrau-mannheim-trail-094-e1309427820629.jpg2011 06 25 Jungfrau Mannheim trail 094The beetle was clearly coming after me!https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/2011-06-25-jungfrau-mannheim-trail-092-e1309426424396.jpg2011 06 25 Jungfrau Mannheim trail 092The Swiss version of Inukshuks - a more stream-lined design, lacking in pretension. 2011-06-30T17:53:41+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2011/06/29/higher-still-in-the-jungfrau-mountains/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/2011-06-25-jungfrau-mannheim-trail-048.jpg2011 06 25 Jungfrau Mannheim trail 048Alpine flowers at Jungfrau. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/2011-06-25-jungfrau-mannheim-trail-065.jpg2011 06 25 Jungfrau Mannheim trail 065Looking north toward Lake Brien or also known as Brienzersee. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/2011-06-25-jungfrau-mannheim-trail-061.jpg2011 06 25 Jungfrau Mannheim trail 061At the look-out - benches, another trail to another look-out, not a single safety fence in sight. This is not Canada. If you fall off, it is no one's fault but your own. The Swiss say: You knew they were mountains, right? https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/2011-06-25-jungfrau-mannheim-trail-051-e1309336159153.jpg2011 06 25 Jungfrau Mannheim trail 051Appearances are deceiving. A wide mostly even surface makes it look easy, but this trail is at a rather steep pitch.https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/2011-06-25-jungfrau-mannheim-trail-060.jpg2011 06 25 Jungfrau Mannheim trail 060If you stumble, these will stop your fall. Note: The challenges of capturing perspective means that this slope is much steeper than it appears. Yes, as much as the fall will hurt, the landing will be worse, but still better than going the whole 2,300 metres down to the valley floor.https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/2011-06-25-jungfrau-mannheim-trail-057-e1309335454600.jpg2011 06 25 Jungfrau Mannheim trail 057The view from Mannlichenbaln looking south toward the Jungfrau mountain range. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/2011-06-25-jungfrau-mannheim-trail-047.jpg2011 06 25 Jungfrau Mannheim trail 047We could discern no actual use for piece of equipment except to signal that the Swiss have no problem plunking heavy equipment anywhere, even on mountainsides. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/2011-06-25-jungfrau-mannheim-trail-031-e1309334153858.jpg2011 06 25 Jungfrau Mannheim trail 031Jungfrau mountain region.2011-06-29T19:10:02+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2011/06/28/not-so-scared-any-more/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/2011-06-25-jungfrau-mannheim-trail-135.jpg2011 06 25 Jungfrau Mannheim trail 135Cogwheel trains at Scheinzernfreaualdjgblergessellschaft. That is not it's real name. It's real name is Scheidegg, but all German sounds like an endless waterfall of syllables to me.https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/2011-06-25-jungfrau-mannheim-trail-148-e1340892730936.jpg2011 06 25 Jungfrau Mannheim trail 148Yawn. Another mountain. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/2011-06-25-jungfrau-mannheim-trail-154-e1309253502302.jpg2011 06 25 Jungfrau Mannheim trail 154Dogs of all shapes and sizes are welcome on Switzerland's trains. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/2011-06-25-jungfrau-mannheim-trail-149.jpg2011 06 25 Jungfrau Mannheim trail 149Trains need help to climb Jungfrauloch's steep mountains. Close-up of cogwheel track that serpentines up the inclines. On the ride down, the braking action is palpable. A derailment here would be a flung-from-cliff disaster. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/2011-06-25-jungfrau-mannheim-trail-002.jpg2011 06 25 Jungfrau Mannheim trail 002Jungfrau's cogwheel trains are charming with large windows and surprisingly comfortable wood-back seats. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/2011-06-25-jungfrau-mannheim-trail-001.jpg2011 06 25 Jungfrau Mannheim trail 001The Swiss are always ready for action, as you can tell by this train passenger car that has fold-up seats and plenty of floor space for bicycles, skiis and other sporting gear. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/2011-06-25-jungfrau-mannheim-trail-056-e1309248723793.jpg2011 06 25 Jungfrau Mannheim trail 056What the heck? This isn't Kansas. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/2011-06-25-jungfrau-mannheim-trail-022-e1309248073572.jpg2011 06 25 Jungfrau Mannheim trail 022You know you're in Switzerland when .....2011-06-28T15:19:38+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2011/06/26/sticker-shock/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/2011-06-26-receipts-e1309091712647.jpg2011 06 26 receipts2011-06-27T19:22:44+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2011/06/27/1771/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/2011-06-25-jungfrau-mannheim-trail-018-e1309183015832.jpg2011 06 25 Jungfrau Mannheim trail 018We were surprised by the dimensions of the ketchup packet. We think it says, "If you don't like your lunch, just spray it with this." https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/2011-06-25-jungfrau-mannheim-trail-017-e1309182893333.jpg2011 06 25 Jungfrau Mannheim trail 017Cheese cake in theory; quiche in fact. Lousy cheesecake. Good quiche. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/2011-06-25-jungfrau-mannheim-trail-010-e1309182697114.jpg2011 06 25 Jungfrau Mannheim trail 010Hildegard, hard at work. Time waits for no man, and Hildegard waits for no customer, although technically, she is a waitress, so you would think she'd wait around while we figured out our order.https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/2011-06-25-jungfrau-mannheim-trail-006-e1309182207305.jpg2011 06 25 Jungfrau Mannheim trail 006On the cogwheel train ride up from Lauterbrunnen valley to Wengen in Switzerland's Jungfrau region. 2011-06-27T14:09:51+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2011/06/25/heading-to-the-top-of-europe/2011-06-25T06:33:16+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2011/06/24/chatting-in-english/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/2011-04-03-06-biel-flat-051-e1308911565589.jpg2011 04 03 06 Biel flat 051This shop clerk might flee if we speak English to her. 2011-06-24T10:44:43+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2011/06/22/swiss-people-and-parks/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/2011-06-22-biel-beach-007-e1308745229908.jpg2011 06 22 biel beach 007Large cabanas with long ship-hull-inspired bars serve food and drink. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/2011-06-22-biel-beach-010-e1308745077556.jpg2011 06 22 biel beach 010Biel/Bienne's tropical pavilion in June last year. Loungers, sand, boardwalks, drink service, and admission is free. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/2011-06-22-biel-beach-009-e1308743757934.jpg2011 06 22 biel beach 009AFTER: Palm trees, sand, lots of people. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/2011-06-22-biel-beach-013-e1308743551187.jpg2011 06 22 biel beach 013Before the beach, 2011: How the park usually looks - asphalt, lawn, shrubs, rock-line shore. Yes, I would like some palm trees, thank you. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/2011-06-22-biel-beach-015-e1308743361507.jpg2011 06 22 biel beach 015Biel/Bienne's summer facelift from June 2012. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/2011-06-22-biel-beach-006-e1308743144529.jpg2011 06 22 biel beach 006Dave wanders into park and wonders, where the heck did all this sand come from? And the beach furniture? And the hot dog stand? From June 2011. 2011-06-24T10:04:10+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2011/06/23/the-things-you-bring-back-home/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/2011-06-22-biel-beach-024-e1308833089474.jpg2011 06 22 biel beach 024Is this the transportable good stuff? My summer cottage guests will test it.https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/2011-06-22-biel-beach-021-e1308832813978.jpgCafe de ParisThis is not the prettiest photo. It was taken on the sly in the grocery store where I have been scolded for photographing the goods before. This tiny container that fits in my hand cost 4.10 francs, which is way to much to pay for anything that has margarine in it. 2011-06-23T13:26:02+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2011/06/21/switzerlands-see-through-public-washroom-toilet-tips-for-travelers/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/260221_10150272456370067_635980066_9347561_7455384_n.jpg260221_10150272456370067_635980066_9347561_7455384_nLook at that beautiful outhouse with a full-door and no windows! 2011-06-22T11:31:55+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2011/06/20/wasp/2011-06-20T09:19:07+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2011/06/19/swiss-street-music/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/2011-06-18-biel-004-e1308476885111.jpg2011 06 18 biel 0042011-06-20T09:10:30+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2011/06/18/swiss-misdirect-night-time-marathoners-cut-race-short-by-7-5-km/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/2011-06-17-100-k-race-005-e1308394302842.jpg2011 06 17 100 k race 005Runners were here. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/2011-06-17-100-k-race-008-e1308394005617.jpg2011 06 17 100 k race 008A runner going in the opposite direction of other runners at the Biel/Bienne 100k on June 17. Either he is the only guy to memorize the course and so he's ignoring the race marshalls, or he is but the first of many on a misdirected course.2011-06-18T21:30:57+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2011/06/17/what-i-cant-live-without/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/2011-06-17-knives-003-e1308307635550.jpg2011 06 17 knives 003https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/2011-06-17-knives-002-e1308307358860.jpg2011 06 17 knives 0022011-06-18T12:16:31+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2011/06/16/hotel-living/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/2011-06-14-hotel-fundraiser-006.jpg2011 06 14 hotel fundraiser 006I was going to order BBQ pork steak, but the staff talked me into a Swiss favorite - Tarte flambe', which is not a tart at all, but an oval tortllla-like shell topped with bacon, onions and sour cream. It was pretty good. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/2011-06-14-hotel-fundraiser-010.jpg2011 06 14 hotel fundraiser 010A local jazz band performs at our hotel's fundraiser for a horse camp for children with disabilities. 2011-06-16T14:16:08+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2011/06/14/the-perils-of-public-transport/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/2011-06-12-fribourg-the-day-of-the-drunks-082-e1308045722736.jpg2011 06 12 Fribourg the day of the drunks 082Fribourg's 40-metre long covered bridge, called the "Bern Bridge," dates back to the 17th century and is made of stone, wood and dirt. Yes, dirt. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/2011-06-12-fribourg-the-day-of-the-drunks-063-e1308045316588.jpg2011 06 12 Fribourg the day of the drunks 063Eroded limestone hangs over the river at Fribourg. See the fisherman in the lower right corner.https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/2011-06-12-fribourg-the-day-of-the-drunks-057-e1308044977378.jpg2011 06 12 Fribourg the day of the drunks 057At Fribourg's covered bridge. Isn't it charming. We could barely notice it, thanks to booze-soaked wanderer. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/2011-06-12-fribourg-the-day-of-the-drunks-001-e1308043767637.jpg2011 06 12 Fribourg the day of the drunks 001This guy must be going on an overnight trip. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/2011-06-11-corgemont-biel-market-neuchatel-bike-060-e1308043559838.jpg2011 06 11 Corgemont, Biel market, Neuchatel bike 060Train-traveler packs one, two, three bottles/cans in full view for the trip. 2011-06-14T10:44:45+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2011/05/25/change-room-etiquette/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/2011-05-26-dogs-and-fitting-rooms-006.jpg2011 05 26 dogs and fitting rooms 006Swiss fitting room - this convenient viewing deck faces onto a bank of mirrors, adding to the viewing pleasure (or horror) of people standing outside.https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/2011-05-26-dogs-and-fitting-rooms-007-e1306408808338.jpg2011 05 26 dogs and fitting rooms 007This Frenchman, coming to a fitting room near you. 2011-06-13T14:01:12+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2011/06/13/does-dave-work/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/2011-06-11-corgemont-biel-market-neuchatel-bike-012-e1307959319981.jpg2011 06 11 Corgemont, Biel market, Neuchatel bike 012Undone again by the Swiss rail system. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/2011-06-11-corgemont-biel-market-neuchatel-bike-026-e1307958720571.jpg2011 06 11 Corgemont, Biel market, Neuchatel bike 026Dave and his boss model what an ordinary work day looks like for Dave, but let me point out - they are posing, raising the question: Does he really work? Or are the people I met all hired actors? A hit man could afford that. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/2011-06-11-corgemont-biel-market-neuchatel-bike-005-e1307958502296.jpg2011 06 11 Corgemont, Biel market, Neuchatel bike 005The road is long, with no real winding turns, but it turned out not to be a road at all. Dang. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/2011-06-11-corgemont-biel-market-neuchatel-bike-003-e1307958312530.jpg2011 06 11 Corgemont, Biel market, Neuchatel bike 003Lost among livestock in a Swiss village. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/2011-06-11-corgemont-biel-market-neuchatel-bike-001-e1307958106211.jpg2011 06 11 Corgemont, Biel market, Neuchatel bike 001What a cute train station. What a pity it's not the one I wanted. 2011-06-13T13:47:17+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2011/06/12/biel-market/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/2011-06-11-corgemont-biel-market-neuchatel-bike-054-e1307895956274.jpg2011 06 11 Corgemont, Biel market, Neuchatel bike 054https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/2011-06-11-corgemont-biel-market-neuchatel-bike-053.jpg2011 06 11 Corgemont, Biel market, Neuchatel bike 053I don't know what the 3.50 is for, but we saw loaves priced at eight franks. Yikes. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/2011-06-11-corgemont-biel-market-neuchatel-bike-052-e1307896140977.jpg2011 06 11 Corgemont, Biel market, Neuchatel bike 052In Switzerland, the garlic knows enough to fall into formation.https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/2011-06-11-corgemont-biel-market-neuchatel-bike-051.jpg2011 06 11 Corgemont, Biel market, Neuchatel bike 051Three varieties of cherries at Biel's Saturday farm market.... they are probably all Swiss, but it is possible they allowed a few Italian or Spanish ones in. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/2011-06-11-corgemont-biel-market-neuchatel-bike-050-e1307896832642.jpg2011 06 11 Corgemont, Biel market, Neuchatel bike 050Biel/Bienne's farmers market. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/2011-06-11-corgemont-biel-market-neuchatel-bike-049.jpg2011 06 11 Corgemont, Biel market, Neuchatel bike 049https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/2011-06-11-corgemont-biel-market-neuchatel-bike-048.jpg2011 06 11 Corgemont, Biel market, Neuchatel bike 048The grey metal roundish thing on the right is an old-fashioned bed heater/water bottle. Oooh, comfy.https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/2011-06-11-corgemont-biel-market-neuchatel-bike-047-e1307897211355.jpg2011 06 11 Corgemont, Biel market, Neuchatel bike 047The market has expanded higher up the 16th-century cobblestone streets as summer nears.https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/2011-06-11-corgemont-biel-market-neuchatel-bike-045.jpg2011 06 11 Corgemont, Biel market, Neuchatel bike 045I would love to bought this Monarch typewriter with a French keyboard, but that would have gone against our "pack light" motto for our time here. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/2011-06-11-corgemont-biel-market-neuchatel-bike-043.jpg2011 06 11 Corgemont, Biel market, Neuchatel bike 043An IBM Selectric - vintage 1978, if memory serves. We saw a lot of old junk at the market, but not a lot of people buying it.2011-06-12T17:09:05+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2011/06/11/weird-weekend/2011-06-11T16:18:43+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2011/06/10/no-live-plucking/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/2011-06-03-besancon-france-006-e1307694534961.jpg2011 06 03 Besancon France 006No live plucking! https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/2011-06-03-besancon-france-007-e1307694060456.jpg2011 06 03 Besancon France 007Right: Swiss concept of adequate pillow. Left: Joanne concept of adequate pillow.https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/n607211049_516758_4785-e1307693797754.jpgn607211049_516758_4785Pillows: You can't have too many. This photo, taken years ago, is of when my pillow-compulsion was under restraint. Only 30% of this bed is now visible, thanks to pillows! 2011-06-13T06:55:17+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2011/06/09/innocent-walk-around-town-leads-to-horror/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/2011-06-03-besancon-france-107-e1307618521877.jpg2011 06 03 Besancon France 107We do most of our touring on Saturdays, hence we keep running into weddings, photo shoots and parties. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/2011-06-03-besancon-france-100-e1307618284917.jpg2011 06 03 Besancon France 100Even though the baboons terrified us (see silky-haired creatures in the lower right corner), we later saw the keeper hand-feed them. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/2011-06-03-besancon-france-051.jpg2011 06 03 Besancon France 051Metallic directional arrows are imbedded in Besancon's sidewalks to help tourists find their way around town, however, we found this particular set pointed in the opposite direction indicated on our map. Coincidentally, it points toward the casino. Coincidence? https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/2011-06-03-besancon-france-042.jpg2011 06 03 Besancon France 042https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/2011-06-03-besancon-france-041-e1307618830503.jpg2011 06 03 Besancon France 041Besancon is one of France's undiscovered beauties. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/2011-06-03-besancon-france-037.jpg2011 06 03 Besancon France 037Saint Pierre Church in Besancon. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/2011-06-03-besancon-france-022.jpg2011 06 03 Besancon France 022A children's carousel in the Saint Pierre Church plaza. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/2011-06-03-besancon-france-021-e1307618107499.jpg2011 06 03 Besancon France 021Libyans seeking signatures supporting the ousting of Gaddafi.https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/2011-06-03-besancon-france-0201.jpg2011 06 03 Besancon France 020https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/2011-06-03-besancon-france-019.jpg2011 06 03 Besancon France 0192012-05-22T20:20:56+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2011/06/06/besancon-french-german-austrian-spanish-roman-hungarian-then-french-town/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/2011-06-03-besancon-france-043-e1307350052888.jpg2011 06 03 Besancon France 043Museum of Fine Arts and Archeology with origins dating back to 1694, although this building is building, a former grain hall, only dates back to the 1800s. Nevertheless, its interior was completely refurbished by Louis Miguel, a man who is forever doomed to only be addressed as "a student of Le Corbusier." He deserves better. The interior is spectacular. Did I mention this town has only 120,000 inhabitants? And yet they somehow pulled this off. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/2011-06-03-besancon-france-020-e1307349308890.jpg2011 06 03 Besancon France 020This church, Eglise St. Pierre, built in the 1780s, is believed to inhabit the earlier site of a 4th-century church. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/2011-06-03-besancon-france-109-e1307349032366.jpg2011 06 03 Besancon France 109You don't expect to see an elaborate Egyptian display at a small French city with a population of about 120,000, but the French are known for their elegance, so why not?2011-06-08T17:14:24+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2011/06/07/besancon-bits/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/2011-06-03-besancon-france-057.jpg2011 06 03 Besancon France 057Knocking on Victor Hugo's door - or at least, the door to the apartment building where he was born on February 6, 1802. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/2011-06-03-besancon-france-045-e1307435415690.jpg2011 06 03 Besancon France 045Besancon's Revolutionary Square, which is a lot bigger than it looks in this photo. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/2011-06-03-besancon-france-063-e1307434842526.jpg2011 06 03 Besancon France 06312th Century portion of Besancon's Cathedral Saint Jean. At least, that's what the guide inside the church said. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/2011-06-03-besancon-france-014-e1307435995160.jpg2011 06 03 Besancon France 014A church in Besancon. Wouldn't it be nice if I knew its name? https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/2011-06-03-besancon-france-008-e1307434050303.jpg2011 06 03 Besancon France 008Dave expresses his opinion of France's tourism bureau, which laughingly seems to be closed just when visitors are most likely to show up. To be fair - this office was open the following day. 2011-06-08T17:12:07+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2011/06/08/eat-on-the-street-at-au-grillon/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/2011-06-03-besancon-france-026-e1307531433935.jpg2011 06 03 Besancon France 026The view on the other side of the street - sure the avenue is jammed with tables and pedestrians, but why not drive a sports car through it? We've seen this in Switzerland and France - owning a sportscar is apparently a license to drive anywhere, any time, any way at all. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/2011-06-03-besancon-france-032-e1307531113742.jpg2011 06 03 Besancon France 032The view from our table. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/2011-06-03-besancon-france-031-e1307523669708.jpg2011 06 03 Besancon France 031Hopefully no waiter-spit is in here. Also, this tasted a lot better than it looked, although I could detect any garllic - sacre blue! The waiter reported my linguistic misdemeanors to the chef!https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/2011-06-03-besancon-france-029-e1307522862206.jpg2011 06 03 Besancon France 029Photo captures male diner's facial expression as he absorbs yet another insult from his haughty French waiter. He revels in the satisfaction of knowing he is paying for the best arrogance France can deliver.2011-06-09T09:58:45+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2011/06/05/shuffling-closer-to-the-french/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/2011-06-02-neuchatel-plus-some-biel-097.jpg2011 06 02 Neuchatel plus some Biel 097The castle ramparts remind me of The Friendly Giant children's show. Neuchatel's "modern" district is in the background. It is built up some pretty steep slopes rising from Neuchatel Lake. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/2011-06-02-neuchatel-plus-some-biel-096.jpg2011 06 02 Neuchatel plus some Biel 096https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/2011-06-02-neuchatel-plus-some-biel-094.jpg2011 06 02 Neuchatel plus some Biel 094A promenade from the castle leading to the botanical gardens that were once reserved for the use of local royalty. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/2011-06-02-neuchatel-plus-some-biel-080.jpg2011 06 02 Neuchatel plus some Biel 080This exterior detail suggests Moorish architecture, however, Moors are not known to have ever held Swiss territory. Our guide said that it is believed this piece was influenced by one of the castle's 12th century rulers who may have joined in the Crusades to the Middle East. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/2011-06-02-neuchatel-plus-some-biel-076.jpg2011 06 02 Neuchatel plus some Biel 076We got to listen to a pile of Neuchatel political history while in this municipal meeting place inside the castle. It was all spoken in French, but it was as fascinating to us as listening to speeches on Canadian history in English. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/2011-06-02-neuchatel-plus-some-biel-071.jpg2011 06 02 Neuchatel plus some Biel 071Chateau Neuchatel's banquet hall. We have a lake-house, too, but never so many guests that we need a dining table this big. Clearly, the Neuchatelese had trouble managing their guest list. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/2011-06-02-neuchatel-plus-some-biel-060-e1307103974732.jpg2011 06 02 Neuchatel plus some Biel 060Not sure if a designer would agree these 12th and 15/17th century styles are a good pairing. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/2011-06-02-neuchatel-plus-some-biel-059.jpg2011 06 02 Neuchatel plus some Biel 059Just in case you forget the time, the Swiss burrow clocks into random walls. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/2011-06-02-neuchatel-plus-some-biel-045.jpg2011 06 02 Neuchatel plus some Biel 045Neuchatel castle window detail. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/2011-06-02-neuchatel-plus-some-biel-044-e1307103825596.jpg2011 06 02 Neuchatel plus some Biel 044Older parts of Neuchatel castle were built in the 12th century - newer parts in the 15th and 17th centuries. 2011-06-07T20:25:24+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2011/06/04/ebenalp-weddings-large-dogs-hotdog-soup/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/2011-05-28-appenzell-117-e1307044079229.jpg2011 05 28 appenzell 117What's this? Is the bride changing her mind and bolting back up the mountain? Or just avoiding pesky wedding crashers (ie. us, who were on our way back from lunch at the inn). https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/2011-05-28-appenzell-116-e1307043986509.jpg2011 05 28 appenzell 116The newlyweds head down from the cave church to the inn for their wedding feast, which will be held under a megatonnage of overhanging rock. If their relationship can handle this stress, they will be okay. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/2011-05-28-appenzell-114.jpg2011 05 28 appenzell 114This was not Switzerland's finest cuisine hour. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/2011-05-28-appenzell-109.jpg2011 05 28 appenzell 109Awww, sheep. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/2011-05-28-appenzell-101-e1307044325591.jpg2011 05 28 appenzell 101Fearless Swiss build into the side of the mountain. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/2011-05-28-appenzell-097.jpg2011 05 28 appenzell 097You wouldn't think a path so skinny it needs a boardwalk to bridge the gaps would be so crowded. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/2011-05-28-appenzell-096-e1307044346536.jpg2011 05 28 appenzell 096Yes, it's a little steep. Why do you ask?https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/2011-05-28-appenzell-092.jpg2011 05 28 appenzell 092Wedding guest dressed in proper wedding traditional Swiss attire. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/2011-05-28-appenzell-091.jpg2011 05 28 appenzell 091Wilderkirsche - once again, the Catholics get their first and get the better church location. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/2011-05-28-appenzell-084.jpg2011 05 28 appenzell 084Hermits cabin at Ebenalp, built right into cave. 2011-06-05T20:06:40+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2011/06/03/ebenalp-mountains-and-the-importance-of-footwear/2011-06-04T21:32:08+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2011/06/02/where-to-next/2011-06-02T08:53:57+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2011/06/01/knowing-gnomes/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/2011-05-28-appenzell-032-e1306929203455.jpg2011 05 28 appenzell 032Dave says go big or go home!https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/2011-05-28-appenzell-029-e1306929405797.jpg2011 05 28 appenzell 029Another clock tower. We are still in Switzerland, the land where tardiness is without excuse. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/2011-05-28-appenzell-028.jpg2011 05 28 appenzell 028Entrance to hardware store ... looked like the way to someone's garage. We don't know how this affects their business. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/2011-05-28-appenzell-027.jpg2011 05 28 appenzell 027Do you see paint dribbles? https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/2011-05-28-appenzell-023.jpg2011 05 28 appenzell 023The Hotel Santis paint job looks a look like British Columbia's Coast Salish murals. I'm just saying. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/2011-05-28-appenzell-020.jpg2011 05 28 appenzell 020Humble buildings line the village streets, but they are no less charming than those found in bigger cities. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/2011-05-28-appenzell-017.jpg2011 05 28 appenzell 017No one can compete with Switzerland's patriotism and flag-waving - not even the U.S.https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/2011-05-28-appenzell-016.jpg2011 05 28 appenzell 016https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/2011-05-28-appenzell-015.jpg2011 05 28 appenzell 015Most Swiss fountains are topped with statues of local heroes or historical figures. Appenzell has a cactus. We don't know what to make of this. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/2011-05-28-appenzell-012.jpg2011 05 28 appenzell 0122011-06-02T16:47:51+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2011/05/31/eating-like-europeans/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/2011-05-28-appenzell-040-e1306831343904.jpg2011 05 28 appenzell 040Lokal takes its gelato seriously. Mmmmmm .... gelato.https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/2011-05-28-appenzell-033-e1306831116547.jpg2011 05 28 appenzell 033Dave using the classical pointing method to order his lunch. He has no idea what he is pointing at. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/2011-05-28-appenzell-034-e1306830844847.jpg2011 05 28 appenzell 034A rarity in Europe: Water served automatically. Usually it must be ordered and it costs as much as any other beverage. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/2011-05-28-appenzell-036-e1306830645239.jpg2011 05 28 appenzell 0362011-05-31T15:01:43+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2011/05/30/a-change-of-view-in-switzerlands-east-side/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/2011-05-28-appenzell-003.jpg2011 05 28 appenzell 003Switzerland's Appenzellerland is quintessential Swiss, in so much as it looks as foreigners would expect Switzerland to appear with dairy cows, trimmed pastures and garden gnomes. 2011-05-30T11:49:21+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2011/05/29/wedding-in-a-mountain-cave/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/2011-05-28-appenzell-096-e1306668012398.jpg2011 05 28 appenzell 096I'm not scared, why do you ask?https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/2011-05-28-appenzell-090.jpg2011 05 28 appenzell 090Dave tries to blend in as a wedding guest? Maybe not. 2011-05-29T11:25:06+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2011/05/28/weekend-wanderings-off-to-appenzell-also-known-as-cowbell-country/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/2011-05-21-biel-bike-ride-0781-e1306528726347.jpg2011 05 21 Biel bike ride 078A Swiss cow, WITHOUT a cowbell. What is the land of cheese coming to?2011-05-28T12:44:13+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2011/05/27/rain/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/2011-05-27-biel-rain-e1306491548263.jpg2011 05 27 biel rainRain, rain please do stay. I can't take another hot day.https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/2011-05-27-biel-rain-003-e1306482609813.jpg2011 05 27 biel rain 003Plants that I plan to neglect. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/2011-05-27-biel-rain-004-e1306482303432.jpg2011 05 27 biel rain 004Our view: Not very attractive, but not so bad. The buildings absorb the sound of ambulances screaming down our street. I'm not joking. We rarely hear them from inside our courtyard-flat.2011-05-27T14:12:26+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2011/05/26/along-the-bicycle-path/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/2011-05-21-biel-bike-ride-084-e1306435992226.jpg2011 05 21 Biel bike ride 084The village of Erlach stands at the west side of Lake Biel. It is the halfway point for the 44--kilometre ride, the launching point for St. Peter's peninsula and the home of many eateries. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/2011-05-21-biel-bike-ride-082.jpg2011 05 21 Biel bike ride 082The bike trail goes past farm lands, dairy cattle, campgrounds and tiny villages.https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/2011-05-21-biel-bike-ride-069.jpg2011 05 21 Biel bike ride 069About 250 metres past the beach side stand is an old lodge with a courtyard restaurant and a second cafeteria-style eatery.https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/2011-05-21-biel-bike-ride-062.jpg2011 05 21 Biel bike ride 062Near the tip of St. Peter's is a beachfront cafe that serves ice cream, coffee, and a limited selection of cold beverages.https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/2011-05-21-biel-bike-ride-058.jpg2011 05 21 Biel bike ride 058Riders can add 10 kilometres to the 44-kilometre ride by detouring onto St. Peter's peninsula.https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/2011-05-21-biel-bike-ride-038.jpg2011 05 21 Biel bike ride 038A third stretch of shade. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/2011-05-21-biel-bike-ride-035.jpg2011 05 21 Biel bike ride 035We are smiling because we are incoherent with heat stroke. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/2011-05-21-biel-bike-ride-033.jpg2011 05 21 Biel bike ride 033The map came out about a dozen times - a new record for getting lost.https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/2011-05-21-biel-bike-ride-030.jpg2011 05 21 Biel bike ride 030A second patch of rare shade.https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/2011-05-21-biel-bike-ride-024.jpg2011 05 21 Biel bike ride 024A rare stretch of shade along the 44-kilometre trail circumnavigating Lake Biel.2011-05-26T19:06:03+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2011/05/24/say-cheeeese/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/2011-05-21-biel-bike-ride-079.jpg2011 05 21 Biel bike ride 079The source of so much goodness: Cheese, fondues, ice cream, taco fillings ...2011-05-24T18:59:17+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2011/05/23/mom-told-me-not-to-talk-to-strangers/2011-05-24T06:48:18+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2011/05/22/living-a-double-life/2011-05-23T07:37:55+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2011/05/21/the-100-mile-diet-and-why-it-stinks/2011-05-21T18:06:01+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2011/05/16/to-the-castle-getting-there-is-half-the-fun/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/2011-05-14-montreux-006.jpg2011 05 14 Montreux 006The Simplon's aft-deck: Lovely, even in the rain. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/2011-05-14-montreux-005.jpg2011 05 14 Montreux 005Noisy, crowded, panicked crew - all part of the fun.https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/2011-05-14-montreux-010.jpg2011 05 14 Montreux 010Approaching Castle Chillon.2011-05-20T07:50:42+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2011/05/20/english-101-thursday-night-shopping/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/2011-05-19-biel-meat-market-009-e1305835220637.jpg2011 05 19 biel meat market 009This is definitely a catch-and-release fishing pond.https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/2011-05-19-biel-meat-market-007-e1305834498125.jpg2011 05 19 biel meat market 007This woman looks like she is back looking for a way to refund the guy she picked up here years ago. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/2011-05-19-biel-meat-market-0171-e1305833915929.jpg2011 05 19 biel meat market 017Gender fashion inequities apparent on the street: She worked hard in front of the mirror for this look. The guy in background carrying a gray sweater has not looked at his reflection all week. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/2011-05-19-biel-meat-market-017.jpg2011 05 19 biel meat market 017https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/2011-05-19-biel-meat-market-021-e1305833697894.jpg2011 05 19 biel meat market 021Women hunt in pairs so as to appear to not be looking at the loitering males. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/2011-05-19-biel-meat-market-011-e1305833387384.jpg2011 05 19 biel meat market 011Trolling must sometimes be concealed by feigning interest in shoes. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/2011-05-19-biel-meat-market-014-e1305833023341.jpg2011 05 19 biel meat market 014This young woman has snagged a few males, but she knows she can do better. She's still shopping the crowd.https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/2011-05-19-biel-meat-market-019-e1305832621712.jpg2011 05 19 biel meat market 019Manhunting is best done in packs. Note stilettos: They both attract a potential mate, and serve as a significant sharp-edged weapon should the woman wish to repel him. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/2011-05-19-biel-meat-market-004-e1305832315727.jpg2011 05 19 biel meat market 004Will carefully-attired T-shirt man ever turn around and notice designer-handbag girl seated behind him? 2011-05-20T17:18:41+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2011/05/17/chillin-at-chillon/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/2011-05-14-montreux-058.jpg2011 05 14 Montreux 058View over the castle from the tower. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/2011-05-14-montreux-057.jpg2011 05 14 Montreux 057One floor of the tower had this display of cutout soldiers with medieval weaponry. Very yukky stuff. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/2011-05-14-montreux-056.jpg2011 05 14 Montreux 056The charming courtyard. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/2011-05-14-montreux-055.jpg2011 05 14 Montreux 055The trip up the tower is considerable, and steep through narrow stairs, but not so bad. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/2011-05-14-montreux-052.jpg2011 05 14 Montreux 052Restored roof tiles? Or was our neighbour Dan here with gas-powered high-pressure power washer?https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/2011-05-14-montreux-051.jpg2011 05 14 Montreux 051Another courtyard view. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/2011-05-14-montreux-050.jpg2011 05 14 Montreux 050View from a soldier's post. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/2011-05-14-montreux-049.jpg2011 05 14 Montreux 049The courtyard again. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/2011-05-14-montreux-046.jpg2011 05 14 Montreux 046A turret. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/2011-05-14-montreux-041.jpg2011 05 14 Montreux 041Yes, I photographed the 700-year-old toilet. I have no class. 2011-05-18T18:51:09+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2011/05/18/montreux/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/2011-05-14-montreux-067.jpg2011 05 14 Montreux 067The requisite pose with Freddie Mercury statue. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/2011-05-14-montreux-068.jpg2011 05 14 Montreux 068https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/2011-05-14-montreux-072-e1305711665528.jpg2011 05 14 Montreux 072What do you think? Does our waiter look French? I think he does and he had a decidedly French accent. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/2011-05-14-montreux-070.jpg2011 05 14 Montreux 070The delicious "Steak de boueffe" grilled to "medium" at Montreux's "La Metropole" restaurant, which also has the sign "Caesar's" above it. We think the dual-name is a byproduct of multilingualism.https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/2011-05-14-montreux-066.jpg2011 05 14 Montreux 066Dave takes my mind off my rain-soaked clothes with a little comic relief. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/2011-05-14-montreux-063.jpg2011 05 14 Montreux 063Even the public washrooms have a stately look in Montreux. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/2011-05-14-montreux-061.jpg2011 05 14 Montreux 061The view of Chateau de Chillon walking away from it on the riviera promenade toward Montreux. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/2011-05-14-montreux-062.jpg2011 05 14 Montreux 062The wet walk between Chateau de Chillon and Montreux, along Lake Geneva. 2011-05-18T20:33:22+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2011/05/17/just-a-few-videos/2011-05-18T13:06:15+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2011/05/09/switzerlands-toronto/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/2011-05-07-zurich-0321.jpg2011 05 07 Zurich 032Fraumunster Church, which stlll has its mid-13th century presbytery, along with these 1970s stained glass windows by Marc Chagall. It's a wonderful trans-centurial marriage. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/2011-05-07-zurich-031-e1305565143259.jpg2011 05 07 Zurich 031The fabulous Fraumunster Church. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/2011-05-07-zurich-004.jpg2011 05 07 Zurich 004Dave checks out a three-wheeled car. What is the point of that? https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/2011-05-07-zurich-003.jpg2011 05 07 Zurich 003I couldn't resist photographing this streetside kiosk - is it the adult Lucy's "The Psychiatrist is In" booth, a la Charlie Brown?https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/2011-05-07-zurich-019.jpg2011 05 07 Zurich 019One of Zurich's many cafes, set on hilly cobblestone lanes. Charming, but how do you keep the coffee from spilling and the food from sliding off the plate?https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/2011-05-07-zurich-040.jpg2011 05 07 Zurich 040Zurich's river front, not far from where it opens to Lac Zurich.https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/2011-05-07-zurich-028-e1304952562666.jpg2011 05 07 Zurich 028Zurich flower shop.https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/2011-05-07-zurich-012.jpg2011 05 07 Zurich 012Riverside park in Zurich's tourist district. Plenty of quaint, expensive shops that are worth browsing just for fun.https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/2011-05-07-zurich-009.jpg2011 05 07 Zurich 009Zurich police station. You know that if the police station, usually the most functional of buildings, looks like this, the city is going to be spectacular. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/2011-05-07-zurich-008.jpg2011 05 07 Zurich 008Zurich police station. It is possible this is a torture scene, or a possible warning about how one's lawyers are about to excise one's property to fund a defense, but it sure is different. 2013-06-24T00:09:43+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2011/05/15/tourist-burn-out-in-montreux/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/2011-05-14-montreux-079.jpg2011 05 14 Montreux 079Is this child dreaming of living in a Frank Lloyd Wright house. Not likely. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/2011-05-14-montreux-085.jpg2011 05 14 Montreux 085It was around 6 p.m. when we trolled these streets, which were empty due to torrential rainfall. Either that, or they knew we were coming. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/2011-05-14-montreux-074-e1305452179546.jpg2011 05 14 Montreux 074When tangerine-coloured buildings no longer appeal to you, it's time to take a break. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/2011-05-14-montreux-086.jpg2011 05 14 Montreux 086A classic Montreux old-quarter building. How it disgusted us. 2011-05-17T16:17:43+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2011/05/13/saturday-off-to-montreux/2011-05-13T20:13:18+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2011/05/13/refrigeration-a-north-american-concept/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/2011-05-13-biel-walkaround-001.jpg2011 05 13 Biel walkaround 001Our Swiss refrigerator - Costco Coleman coolers are larger. The freezer compartment could hold an Oxford dictionary and that is not saying much. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/2011-05-13-biel-walkaround-011.jpg2011 05 13 Biel walkaround 011Store clerks were also unhappy about this photo. I take this as evidence they are ashamed of their unrefrigerated meat practices.https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/2011-05-13-biel-walkaround-010.jpg2011 05 13 Biel walkaround 010This photo was taken with some risk. Store clerks massed around me saying in Italian, French and German that I wasn't allowed to take photos in the store. Good thing I only speak English.2011-05-14T18:34:36+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2011/05/12/caught-in-the-act/2011-05-13T10:06:51+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2011/05/11/on-the-cusp-of-villainy-or-at-least-drunkeness/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/2011-05-11-biel-walkaround-010.jpg2011 05 11 Biel walkaround 010Happy Swiss walking to work.https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/2011-05-11-biel-walkaround-001.jpg2011 05 11 Biel walkaround 001Happy, sober Swiss shopping in normal neighbourhood.https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/2011-05-11-biel-walkaround-016.jpg2011 05 11 Biel walkaround 016One wrong turn, and the scenery changes. Even Swiss towns have a wrong side of the tracks, although, technically, this is on the same side of the tracks as our neighbourhood, just one block over. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/2011-05-11-biel-walkaround-014.jpg2011 05 11 Biel walkaround 014I went back the next day - this is the seedy mafioso-looking cafe, although really, it probably isn't that. Just looked like it after treading Intoxication Promenade.https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/2011-05-11-biel-walkaround-018.jpg2011 05 11 Biel walkaround 018Early clue that we weren't in Kansas anymore (North American cultural reference to being really lost)https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/2011-05-11-biel-walkaround-002.jpg2011 05 11 Biel walkaround 002Happy streets, shining homes. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/2011-05-11-biel-walkaround-003.jpg2011 05 11 Biel walkaround 003The neighbourhood where we normally walk ... fa la la la ...2011-05-11T18:19:30+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2011/05/10/shoes-the-swiss/2011-05-12T06:48:29+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2011/05/08/wandering-puppies/2011-05-08T15:41:18+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2011/05/07/say-cheese/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/swiss2bcheese.jpgSay Cheese2011-05-08T08:08:29+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2011/05/06/terrorism-trashes-tourism/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/internal2bsecurity2bforces2bmembers2bwho2btrained2bdogs2bto2bdetect2bbombs2band2bdrugs2bfor2bthe2bsecurity2bof2bbeirut2binternational2bairport2bin2bbeirut2bseptember2b112b200.jpgTerrorism trashes tourism2011-05-06T18:45:18+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2011/05/06/we-wake-up-to-realization-we-might-be-nomads/2011-05-06T17:46:08+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2011/05/05/when-things-go-right/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/2011-04-30-solothurn-108.jpg2011 04 30 Solothurn 108Solothurn's clock tower.https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/2011-04-30-solothurn-019.jpg2011 04 30 Solothurn 019Solothurn's main promenade. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/2011-04-30-solothurn-016.jpg2011 04 30 Solothurn 016St. Ur or St. Urses Kathdrale on a sunnier dayhttps://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/2011-04-30-solothurn-002.jpg2011 04 30 Solothurn 002Solothurn's St. Ur's Cathedrale roofline. We climbed up 250 poorly lit, uneven wood and stone steps to the top (see people there? 15 minutes later, that's where we were). Because this was the trip where nothing went wrong, we did not plunge to our deaths. Nice.https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/2011-04-30-solothurn-073.jpg2011 04 30 Solothurn 073Dave's ancestor? We don't know. Solothurn art museum held an original Van Gogh, Cezanne and Picasso - not bad for a village of 15,000 and canton (state) of about 245,000.. 2011-05-05T06:51:54+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2011/05/04/are-you-british/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/2011-04-30-solothurn-030.jpg2011 04 30 Solothurn 030Swiss village - full of charming people. 2011-05-05T09:08:49+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2011/05/03/dining-on-the-champs/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/2011-04-25-paris-401.jpg2011 04 25 Paris 401A substantial sandwich from the Cafe de Musee outside of Napoleon's tomb, for less than $12, and nowhere near the Champs. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/2011-04-25-paris-331.jpg2011 04 25 Paris 331Fois gras? Or Klik?2011-05-03T08:38:18+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2011/05/02/paris-food-can-you-eat-lambs-kidney-without-having-to-sell-your-own/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/2011-04-25-paris-209.jpg2011 04 25 Paris 209https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/2011-04-25-paris-404.jpg2011 04 25 Paris 404Our exceedingly snotty French waiter at the Cafe de Musee, who may have been right to hold the butter on my croissant order. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/2011-04-25-paris-332.jpg2011 04 25 Paris 332Goat cheese, along with an understated green salad.https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/2011-04-25-paris-154.jpg2011 04 25 Paris 154https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/2011-04-25-paris-049.jpg2011 04 25 Paris 049Sweet treats and good rib-sticking eats all in one at French bakeries and patisseries.2011-05-02T13:09:41+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2011/05/01/the-poor-you-will-always-have-with-you/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/2011-04-25-paris-355.jpg2011 04 25 Paris 355Security manages the line at the Louis Vuitton store on Paris's Champs Elysees - the couple at the front stood patiently, their faces befuddled and frustrated while he let other customers walk right in ahead of them. Nevertheless, when he waved them in they were all smiles. I think they're called "marks."https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/2011-04-25-paris-129.jpg2011 04 25 Paris 129This panhandler was apparently on a break. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/2011-04-25-paris-082.jpg2011 04 25 Paris 082One panhandler was nowhere to be seen - must have run off for a cafe' au lait, although he still left his post open for donations. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/2011-04-25-paris-081.jpg2011 04 25 Paris 081We were somewhat amazed that this panhandler was comfortable leaving his stuff unattended on Paris streets. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/2011-04-25-paris-353.jpg2011 04 25 Paris 353This panhandler near the Georges V hotel in paris remained motionless with her hand and cup outstretched. Completely cloaked, we couldn't be certain of her age, if she was conscious, or even a she. The still prostrate posture was common among Parisian beggars. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/2011-04-25-paris-343.jpg2011 04 25 Paris 343Another beggar, keeping her face down, kneeling motionless and silent on the Champs Elysees. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/2011-04-25-paris-231.jpg2011 04 25 Paris 231Not technically a beggar, but a street-performer. It was the worst show on earth - for a coin or two, she would nod, then go back to this position. Neverthless, as a hot-flash-enduring middle-aged woman who cannot keep make-up on my face, I want to know her secret. It was scorching outside, yet her gold patina was flawless. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/2011-04-25-paris-228.jpg2011 04 25 Paris 228A man sleeping the doorway of a commerce building facing the Seine River. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/2011-04-25-paris-170.jpg2011 04 25 Paris 170A panhandling woman looks around, seemingly bored with her line of work. 2012-06-25T19:10:57+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2011/04/30/may-day-riots-no-thank-you/2011-04-30T09:00:35+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2011/04/29/paris-food-score-one-home-food-score-zero/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/2011-04-28-home-cooking-001.jpg2011 04 28 home cooking 001My humble attempt at supper.https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/2011-04-28-home-cooking-002.jpg2011 04 28 home cooking 002Anyone who understands this panel, please write to me. 2011-04-30T19:48:47+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2011/04/28/paris-thieves-prettier-than-you-would-expect/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/2011-04-25-paris-429.jpg2011 04 25 Paris 429Gare de Lyon train station, Paris. The launch site of many exciting travels as well as thefts.2011-04-28T18:55:57+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2011/04/27/a-paris-riot-or-just-random-running/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/2011-04-25-paris-094-e1303893852883.jpg2011 04 25 Paris 094Joanne, perspiring from recurrent hot flashes, not from near-almost-mob-trampling. Seriously, hot flashes are more scary.https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/2011-04-25-paris-099.jpg2011 04 25 Paris 099Soldiers, arms at the ready, patrol Paris's streets.https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/2011-04-25-paris-107.jpg2011 04 25 Paris 1072011-04-27T09:11:44+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2011/04/26/a-french-garden-and-an-italian-squabble/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/2011-04-25-paris-404.jpg2011 04 25 Paris 404https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/2011-04-25-paris-392.jpg2011 04 25 Paris 392https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/2011-04-25-paris-387.jpg2011 04 25 Paris 387https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/2011-04-25-paris-384.jpg2011 04 25 Paris 384Grand Palais des Beaux Arts: Art nouveau iron and glass structure erected for the 1900 World Fair. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/2011-04-25-paris-379.jpg2011 04 25 Paris 379Pont Alexandre III: Beautifully embellished bridge, and like so many Paris sites, built for the 1900 World Fair. Cannot imagine what a dull place Paris was, architecturally speaking, before the World Fair.https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/2011-04-25-paris-376.jpg2011 04 25 Paris 376https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/2011-04-25-paris-366.jpg2011 04 25 Paris 366https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/2011-04-25-paris-314.jpg2011 04 25 Paris 314https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/2011-04-25-paris-304.jpg2011 04 25 Paris 304https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/2011-04-25-paris-206.jpg2011 04 25 Paris 206Charming little cafe near the Notre Dame Cathedrale. According to its signage, the cafe has been in operation since 1594, ie. shortly before my ancestors decided they had enough of this place and bolted for Canada. 2011-04-27T04:39:00+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2011/04/25/paris-the-small-stuff/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/2011-04-25-paris-105.jpg2011 04 25 Paris 105The huddled masses at the Eiffel Tower where thousands waited in line for the privilege of riding an elevator to the top (or worse, climbing the staircase). https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/2011-04-25-paris-102.jpg2011 04 25 Paris 102Paris, city of love and of lights. Also, city of people, lots of them. 2011-04-25T18:53:08+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2011/04/22/paris-day-one/2011-04-24T17:45:30+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2011/04/22/paris-or-bust/2011-04-22T15:42:45+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2011/04/21/paris-one-city-four-hotels/2011-04-21T19:57:34+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2011/04/20/the-coveted-swiss-bank-account/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/2011-04-20-banking-cooking-022.jpg2011 04 20 banking & cooking 022Sweet little bunny family currently residing in our Swiss bank. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/2011-04-20-banking-cooking-021.jpg2011 04 20 banking & cooking 021Our Swiss bank - very impressive exterior sending the message that, Hey, we're a Swiss bank and we have assets!https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/2011-04-20-banking-cooking-023.jpg2011 04 20 banking & cooking 023Dogs are welcome in Swiss banks, even when they appear to be bears. 2011-04-20T11:22:45+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2011/04/19/cop-shop/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/2011-04-16-interlaken-004.jpg2011 04 16 Interlaken 004A police station in Lauterbrunnen, not the police station that I had to visit to get our residency cards. I took this photo because its unassuming appearance suggests Switzerland's low crime rate. 2011-04-20T05:39:57+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2011/04/18/sky-high-dining/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/2011-04-16-interlaken-107.jpg2011 04 16 Interlaken 107Truffle ravioli at Alpenruh Hotel, Murren, Switzerland. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/2011-04-16-interlaken-071.jpg2011 04 16 Interlaken 071https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/2011-04-16-interlaken-079.jpg2011 04 16 Interlaken 079https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/2011-04-16-interlaken-077.jpg2011 04 16 Interlaken 077https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/2011-04-16-interlaken-111.jpg2011 04 16 Interlaken 111Hotel Alpenruh's patio eatery. Not so bad. 2011-04-20T12:39:19+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2011/04/17/whats-wrong-with-switzerland/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/2011-04-16-interlaken-056-e1303030689467.jpg2011 04 16 Interlaken 056https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/2011-04-16-interlaken-032.jpg2011 04 16 Interlaken 032The enchanting stroll along the Lauterbrunnen valley, that ends at Recipe for Death gondola rde.https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/2011-04-16-interlaken-076.jpg2011 04 16 Interlaken 076This definitely not me. Judging by the dozens of paragliders floating over the valley, the Interlaken is an excellent place to catch an updraft. Dave spotted on glider just jump up on a mountain side and take off. Not jump "off," just jump "up." https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/2011-04-16-interlaken-013.jpg2011 04 16 Interlaken 013Lauterbrunnen cemetery - placed suspiciously close to Lauterbrunnen gondola2011-04-18T05:47:56+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2011/04/16/saturday-heading-to-the-interlaken/2011-04-17T15:11:58+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2011/04/15/two-weeks-more-or-less/2011-04-15T18:30:41+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2011/04/14/travel-travails-continued/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/2011-04-14-around-biel-014.jpg2011 04 14 around biel 014Just in case you don't quite see it: The arms on this prone statue are about two inches thick and maybe two feet long - would plunge through a chest wall or eye socket quite easily. Eeeew. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/2011-04-14-around-biel-013.jpg2011 04 14 around biel 013Despite their reputation for attention to detail, their take on public art would make North American insurers and art/park commission managers gasp. These wrought-iron statues could inflict fatal wounds if someone tripped into one. Note: Dave does not let me twirl anywhere near these.https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/2011-04-14-around-biel-012.jpg2011 04 14 around biel 012A location for public urination? According to one fellow, it is. Yuk. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/2011-04-14-around-biel-011.jpg2011 04 14 around biel 011Biel's homeless man has been walking around in garbage-bag shoes for two weeks, even when it's blistering hot. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/2011-04-14-around-biel-010.jpg2011 04 14 around biel 010Elders favour canes over walkers. We've seen even young people sporting these arm-support-style canes, making us wonder if polio races through the Swiss. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/2011-04-14-around-biel-009.jpg2011 04 14 around biel 009Smoking is ubiquitous - I have taken to carrying a puffer around. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/2011-04-14-around-biel-008.jpg2011 04 14 around biel 008They park, and occasionally drive, on sidewalks.... not as often as the Spanish, but a lot more than North Americans. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/2011-04-14-around-biel-007.jpg2011 04 14 around biel 007Justin Bieber images are everywhere, such as on this junior sheet set at a local department store. His visage outnumbers that of Obama, Clinton (either one), Michael Jackson, the Beatles and anyone running in Canada's current federal election. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/2011-04-14-around-biel-006.jpg2011 04 14 around biel 006https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/2011-04-14-around-biel-005.jpg2011 04 14 around biel 005Home decor can be festive. 2011-04-16T18:10:53+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2011/04/13/lastminute-com-a-frugal-travelers-best-friend-or-the-devil-incarnate/2011-04-19T19:00:31+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2011/04/13/making-friends-fast/2011-04-14T05:28:38+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2011/04/08/watch-your-language/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/blog-1-0122.jpgblog-1-0122.jpgPost-it notes with my favorite French phrases, such as "It's too loud," and "I don't like that," and "Let's get out of here."https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/cropped-blog-1-012.jpgcropped-blog-1-012.jpg2011-04-12T13:02:20+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2011/04/12/the-swiss-blowing-stuff-up-real-good/2011-04-12T19:03:54+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2011/04/10/cafeteria-lunch/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/2011-04-10-biel-funicar-or-funicular-018.jpg2011 04 10 Biel Funicar or funicular 018Fine cafeteria dining a la Suisse! https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/2011-04-10-biel-funicar-or-funicular-019.jpg2011 04 10 Biel Funicar or funicular 019The cafeteria decor that fooled us into thinking we were about to get an affordable lunch. Not a FREE lunch, just an affordable one. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/2011-04-10-biel-funicar-or-funicular-024.jpg2011 04 10 Biel Funicar or funicular 024The view over Lac Biel. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/2011-04-10-biel-funicar-or-funicular-017.jpg2011 04 10 Biel Funicar or funicular 017How about that fried cheese! https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/2011-04-10-biel-funicar-or-funicular-004.jpg2011 04 10 Biel Funicar or funicular 004This photo may not be able to capture how steep this ride was, but it was REALLY steep and you can tell that by how I used all-caps for the word "really."2011-04-11T19:55:31+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2011/04/11/luscious-lucerne/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/2011-04-09-biel-lucerne-1131.jpg2011 04 09 biel & lucerne 113At a swank chocolate shop called Murkor or something like that - I think it translates into "No chocolate under $40"https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/2011-04-09-biel-lucerne-1121.jpg2011 04 09 biel & lucerne 112About half of the chocolate in Murkor's main showcase, and I do mean "showcase." The word "display" just doesn't quite make it.https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/2011-04-09-biel-lucerne-116.jpg2011 04 09 biel & lucerne 116Lucerne's waterfront. Not so bad. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/2011-04-09-biel-lucerne-150.jpg2011 04 09 biel & lucerne 150Lucerne. Very pretty. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/2011-04-09-biel-lucerne-134.jpg2011 04 09 biel & lucerne 134Lunch for the uber-rich - also, where they are on display for gawkers like us. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/copy-of-2011-04-09-biel-lucerne-090.jpgCopy of 2011 04 09 biel & lucerne 090https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/2011-04-09-biel-lucerne-170.jpg2011 04 09 biel & lucerne 170A woman parading her control over her husband on Lucerne's Promenade - his attire matches hers right down to his shoes. Somebody help this guy.https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/copy-of-2011-04-09-biel-lucerne-076.jpgCopy of 2011 04 09 biel & lucerne 076Swiss comedians? Or the Swiss version of a chain gang (ie. not breaking rocks, just colouring on them). https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/2011-04-09-biel-lucerne-175.jpg2011 04 09 biel & lucerne 175If this lady can be believed, city water fountains pour out potable water, but look at her hat ... would you trust her?https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/2011-04-09-biel-lucerne-166.jpg2011 04 09 biel & lucerne 166Lucerne park bench-sitter: Some things can't be unseen. 2011-04-11T07:50:34+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2011/04/09/walking/2011-04-09T15:52:16+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2011/04/07/why-is-moving-so-exhausting/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/2011-04-03-06-biel-flat-072.jpg2011 04 03 06 Biel flat 072The city-street view outside our previous apartment. It is a popular ambulance/emergency route. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/2011-04-06-another-moving-day-017-e1302164358597.jpg2011 04 06 another moving day 017Our snazzy little kitchenette with some high-end appliances I do not understand, but I love them all the same. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/2011-04-06-another-moving-day-023.jpg2011 04 06 another moving day 023Our new apartment. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/2011-04-01-biel-021.jpg2011 04 01 Biel 021Our previous apartment. 2011-04-08T19:26:40+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2011/04/06/how-friendly-are-the-swiss/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/2011-04-01-biel-080.jpg2011 04 01 Biel 080Swiss trains are spotless, their schedules and routes relatively easy to understand, but be ready for a sociable time as the Swiss love to chat.https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/2011-04-03-06-biel-flat-014.jpg2011 04 03 06 Biel flat 014Snug alleyway in Murten.2011-04-08T11:48:21+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2011/04/06/nomads-move-again/2011-04-07T09:13:30+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2011/04/05/whats-in-a-name-murten-or-morat/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/2011-04-03-murten-008.jpg2011 04 03 Murten 008Medieval castle ramparts in Murten/Morat.https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/2011-04-03-murten-034.jpg2011 04 03 Murten 034The view from Murten/Morat's castle ramparts where on June 22, 1476, 2,000 Murtonians/Moratians beat 20,000 invading French back into the lake, causing many of the armor-clad French to drown. The townspeople were aided by about 10,000 neighbours. This battle is considered seminal to the creation of the Swiss Union. Note: The French were hungover from partying the night before. True story. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/2011-04-03-murten-002.jpg2011 04 03 Murten 0022011-04-06T08:59:46+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2011/04/04/a-few-things-ive-noticed-in-biel/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/2011-04-01-biel-028.jpg2011 04 01 Biel 028A secondary canal in Biel. Locals here think this town is trash, but I don't see anything wrong with it.https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/2011-03-31-europe-019.jpg2011 03 31 Europe 019How is it that the Swiss can make any storefront look picturesque?https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/2011-04-01-biel-093.jpg2011 04 01 Biel 093https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/2011-04-01-biel-078.jpg2011 04 01 Biel 078https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/2011-04-01-biel-073.jpg2011 04 01 Biel 073https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/2011-04-01-biel-072.jpg2011 04 01 Biel 072Farmers market shoe sales. Go figure.https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/2011-04-01-biel-071.jpg2011 04 01 Biel 071https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/2011-04-01-biel-250.jpg2011 04 01 Biel 250Shoes, shoes, shoes and more shoes.2011-04-04T15:25:45+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2011/04/04/more-foodrestaurant-reviews/2011-04-04T08:57:43+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2011/04/03/bern-pronounced-behhhrrn/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/copy-of-2011-04-01-biel-185.jpgCopy of 2011 04 01 Biel 185Bern Munster Cathedrale, dating back to 1421. While we were inside, the organist kicked the massive pipe organ into gear. Stunning.https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/2011-04-01-biel-114.jpg2011 04 01 Biel 114Dave seated at Albert Einstein's desk when he worked at the patent office in Bern. Einstein is said to have made his greatest discoveries while living in Bern between 1901 to 1909. Then he left his wife and married his cousin. Ugh. In the meantime, Dave developed several new theories while seated at Einstein's desk. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/2011-04-01-biel-1041.jpg2011 04 01 Biel 104Bern: This clock tower was once a gate in the town ramparts, however, the city outgrew its boundaries twice. 2011-04-04T05:58:38+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2011/04/03/blisters-and-biel/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/2011-04-01-biel-067.jpg2011 04 01 Biel 067Farmer's market in Biel. Endless volumes of fresh produce, happy farmers, hordes of shoppers all packed into a medievel town setting. Not so bad. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/2011-04-01-biel-055.jpg2011 04 01 Biel 055Banks of tulips fill the cobblestone streets of Biel's old-town. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/2011-04-01-biel-243-e1319289751745.jpg2011 04 01 Biel 243https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/2011-04-01-biel-222.jpg2011 04 01 Biel 222https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/2011-04-01-biel-104.jpg2011 04 01 Biel 104Bern clock tower and gate marks where a city wall once stood. The city outgrew its walls three times.https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/2011-04-01-biel-064.jpg2011 04 01 Biel 064Flower vendor at Biel's Saturday market, April 2, 2011.https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/blog-1-0091.jpgBlog 1 009French language instruction at my level.https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/blog-1-011.jpgblog-1-011.jpgPost-it note language assistance!2011-04-03T18:06:24+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2011/04/02/no-phone-no-help/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/2011-04-01-biel-014.jpg2011 04 01 Biel 014Our somewhat austere but very sunny flat. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/2011-03-31-europe-0201.jpg2011 03 31 Europe 020Dave on a 16th-Century street in Biel https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/2011-03-31-europe-020.jpg2011 03 31 Europe 020Biel's 16th-century old town: Curving cobblestone streets, massive wrought-iron webbed doors and Europeans driving at much faster speeds than I thought possible. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/2011-04-01-biel-009.jpg2011 04 01 Biel 009Easter eggs a la Suisse. They're real eggs - we did not buy any to investigate whether the dye seeps through into the albumen.2011-04-02T22:38:43+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2011/04/01/day-two-in-switzerland/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/2011-03-31-biel-021.jpg2011 03 31 Biel 021Strange little garden-shed villages line the rails between Zurich and Biel. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/2011-03-31-biel-017.jpg2011 03 31 Biel 017Evidence of a parallel universe: Coke Light instead of Diet Coke.https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/2011-03-31-biel-013.jpg2011 03 31 Biel 013I studied French for three months to get ready for living in Switzerland. Apparently, I made a mistake. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/2011-03-31-biel-027.jpg2011 03 31 Biel 027Dave at the Hotel Elite art deco dining room. Cool chandeliers, great food.2011-04-01T19:13:11+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2011/03/31/31-hour-day/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/biel-jan-2010-016.jpgBiel Jan 2010 016Charming Biel/Bienne, which our hotel clerk as a "dump," but we think it looks fine. 2011-04-01T02:10:48+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2011/03/30/just-as-i-hoped-for/2011-03-31T00:58:48+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2011/03/29/fly-away/2011-03-29T22:34:27+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2011/03/29/delay-bonus/2011-03-29T21:49:14+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2011/03/29/leg-one-okay-leg-two-not-so-good/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/biel-jan-2010-e1337085647989.jpgBiel Jan 2010Our lime-green suitcase before it got lost, then beaten badly, enroute from Canada to Switzerland. Traumatized, it refused to return to Europe and is hiding under the bed at our cabin in Ontario. 2011-03-29T22:07:08+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2011/03/28/suitcase-security/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/blog-luggage-025.jpgblog luggage 025Attach strap buckle ends by fixing together until buckle pops into place. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/blog-luggage-024.jpgblog luggage 024Securing the strap in place with a bow or knot will not provide maximum protection. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/blog-luggage-022.jpgblog luggage 022Place luggage strap at centre of suitcase, not at top or bottom ends. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/blog-luggage-021.jpgblog luggage 021Do not place strap at diagonal. https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/blog-luggage-020.jpgblog luggage 020Wrap strap around middle section of the suitcase, sliding under handle for added security.https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/blog-luggage-018.jpgblog luggage 018Advanced users can skip measuring tape step and directly configure strap length by holding it around middle section of the suitcase.https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/blog-luggage-014.jpgblog luggage 014Measure suitcase girth https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/blog-luggage-012.jpgblog luggage 012Pull out the strap and inspect that its edges are straight and the webbing is undamaged.https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/blog-luggage-010.jpgblog luggage 010If sharp implements fail, tear packaging apart with your bare hands.https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/blog-luggage-007.jpgblog luggage 007If scissors fail to pierce packaging, stab with tweezers or clip with nail clippers.2011-03-28T15:23:31+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2011/03/27/packing-day/2011-03-27T19:23:43+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2011/03/26/face-to-face-with-a-government-bureaucrat/2011-03-27T16:54:37+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2011/03/25/visa-day/2011-03-26T00:34:27+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2011/03/22/paperwork-the-price-of-travel/2011-03-24T18:13:47+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2011/03/23/visa-watch-over/2011-03-24T18:09:02+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2011/03/24/how-i-got-this-way/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/swiss-engagement-124.jpgSign of civilization in Bern, Switzerland, January 2011Starbucks in Bern, Switzerland, only a 30-minute train ride away from our locale, but unfortunately in the opposite direction of Dave's office. Dang it. 2013-05-02T20:46:41+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2011/03/23/visa-watch/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/dsc001511.jpgHobbesOur dog, certified for global travel by Canada, Spain, the U.S. and Australia. Thank you, Spanish immigration services, who by the way, never asked to see his documentation when we arrived in Madrid. 2011-03-24T02:10:28+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2011/03/23/four-hours-later/2011-03-23T19:09:32+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.com/2011/03/21/the-first-place/https://hobonotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/biel-jan-2010-176.jpgBiel/Bienne: Architectural detailFrom Dave's "check-it-out" visit in January 20112011-03-23T18:00:55+00:00monthlyhttps://hobonotes.comdaily1.02021-05-15T02:59:35+00:00