Experiencing the Best of Europe
Day 17: Disappointment Shared with Great People
“It is good to have an end to journey toward; but it is the journey that matters, in the end.”
― Ernest Hemingway
Best Moments
1. Waking up and knowing that I was going paragliding
2. Riding up to the Schilthorn
3. Looking out to see the Eiger, Monch, and Jungfrau
4. Watching scenes from the ridiculous James Bond movie that was filmed there
5. Sipping on hot cocoa in Switzerland (10,000 ft high)
6. Feeling the funny effects of a different altitude
7. Taking pictures of my friends paragliding
8. Sharing disappointment with others
9. Getting a private tour with our bus driver after the unfortunate weather change
10. Having an excuse to go back to Switzerland
Daily Recap
*I look at my pictures from this leg of the trip and I am still amazed at what I saw and did. If you are in the Lauterbrunnen area, it is a must to go up to the Schilthorn. It is a bit pricey (like everything else in Switzerland), but so worth it.
*While up in the Schilthorn, you can grab some Swiss hot chocolate as the restaurant rotates so you can see the entire view around you. Unfortunately, the altitude and rotating was a bit much for my stomach.
*The highlight of the day was paragliding. I had been waiting for this moment since Germany. If only weather would have been on my side. I guess I will just have to go back.
*Rene could see our disappointment as we descended down the gondola instead of through the air, so he took us on a little tour of the Lauterbrunnen Valley. It was all so beautiful, especially as the sun came out.
Personal Connections
*The day's personal connections were with my simpaticos. About half of the people got to go paragliding, but the other half did not. We were pretty sour about it. It wasn't anyone's fault, but when there is something you want to do while traveling, it feels so eminent that it all go according to plan. In the end we had to realize that we waited in the drizzle while gazing through the alps.
*The paragliders were great guys that stuck it out with us for about an hour. They could see how important it was to us, but they also knew that safety was the most important thing. I'm always amazed by people in professions like that. They are so kind. They have a freedom that I envy. When I go back, I will definitely go to the same company. I've got my Swiss Francs, now I just need the flight.
Stub Hub
Going up to the Schilthorn is probably one of the most scenic rides. There are a couple stops along the way that are worth visiting. Murren is a nice village. Each farmer has their own bells for their cows, so listening to the different bells as the cows move provides a unique soundtrack to the region.
One of the cornier elements about the Schilthorn is the James Bond movie. One of the films was partially filmed on the Schilthorn. They have a viewing room that shows scenes from the movie. Definitely an entertaining time.
This area in Switzerland is great for adventure seekers. There are so many outdoorsy activities that people can participate in. They have white water rafting, paragliding, hiking, climbing, and much more. The great thing about this tour is the balance between nature and city. It has been rejuvenating to get outside and get fresh air. I wouldn't say I was any less active, but it is a different kind of exercise.