Category: Switzerland

FoxTown Outlet and Lake Lugano
FoxTown Factory Outlet is situated in a sleepy town of Mendrisio, near to the Swiss-Italian border. The Outlet is a highlight by shopping tours coming from both Milan or Como. FoxTown is in fact way nearer to Milan than to Zurich. But we went ahead to check out this outlet mall anyway. It’s within a short walk from Mendrisio train station surrounded by a somewhat industrial-looking neighbourhood. There werenâ€™t many shoppers on that particular day and no sighting of tour buses either.
There is quite a good selection of well-known Italian brands like Armani, Dolce & Gabbana, Ferragamo, Gucci, Prada, Tods, Valentino and Versace. Another good thing for non-Swiss residents to shop here is that the Tax Refund can be processed and collected in FoxTown.
However, the prices here seem to be on the higher side as compared to other Factory Outlets we had been to. For some reason those Outlets with Euro pricing looks to be a better deal especially after the Tax Refund. Needless to say, no shopping bags for us here.
After some cheesy Swiss Fondue lunch at the nicely decorated Chalet Suisse restaurant, I made an impromptu plan to visit the nearby Lake Lugano, known for its scenic surroundings.
The beautiful Lake Lugano
The southern Swiss city of Lugano feels more like being in Italy than Switzerland. There are plenty of Italian influence here that can be seen in its architecture style and food. Lugano can easily pass off as an Italian city if not for the Swiss flags and Francs when paying. But of course, it is well known for the beautiful Lake Lugano surrounded by magnificent mountains. It’s somewhat similar to the equally beautiful Lake Como in Italy.
It takes a few minutes to walk from the main train station down towards the lakeshore. Thereafter, the relaxed stroll along the lakeshore promenade was such a joy for its scenic views. How I wished to have more time here to explore further.
It looks quiet and laid-back all around the neighbourhood as I wandered about. The colourful buildings and squares like Piazza della Riforma are like reminders of Luganoâ€™s nickname of the ‘Little Italy’.
Dinner at La Cucina di Alice
The restaurant with a nice view of Lake Lugano was recommended to us by a local. And indeed, the food at La Cucina di Alice did not disappoint, itâ€™s delicious! I must also mention about the impeccable service rendered by the friendly waiting staff. I would definitely visit again if I find myself back in Lugano.
Thereafter, we made our way back to Zurich and prepare for our return flight the next day.
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March 4, 2019
Zurich and Rheinfall Day trip
Zurich is the largest city in Switzerland renowned for being one of the Worldâ€™s leading financial powers and a superb transportation hub. The cityâ€™s excellent network makes it a breeze to connect with other major cities in Europe. Getting from the airport to Zurich Hauptbahnhof in one the frequent trains takes around ten minutes. Exit the station and be greeted by the shopping street of Bahnhofstrasse, which stretch all the way to Lake Zurich. There are private banks, hotels, restaurants, departmental stores, fashion boutiques and high-end luxury brands which lined along this famous street.
Halfway along Bahnhofstrasse is the historical and narrow side street of Augustinergasse. It is a beautiful street with many colourful facades and of course, the Swiss flags.
It started pouring as we were heading towards Lake Zurich.
Hence, we took shelter and had lunch at the popular Zeughauskeller restaurant. The beer hall is somewhat touristy but it looks to be well visited by the locals too. It is known for its traditional hearty Swiss food and booze. Food wise, I would say that itâ€™s just okay but I love the lively atmosphere and beer.
Day trip to Rheinfall
The weather was way better over at Rheinfall and there are two train stations, Schloss Laufen am Rheinfall and Neuhausen Rheinfall situated near to the waterfall. I chose to alight at Schloss Laufen am Rheinfall on the Southern side where a medieval castle perched above and overlooks the largest waterfall in Switzerland.
A small entrance fee is payable to gain access to the trail leading down to the riverbank, where the viewing platform is built right next to the edge of the waterfall. Since the protruded platform is above the gushing waters, it is inevitable to get a little wet around here. Anyhow, be merry and look out for rainbows!
It is possible to take a boat to the Middle Island to feel the water power in an up-close and personal manner.
It was already late evening when we were back in Zurich. The street scene is a little less hectic and the lighted-up city is beautiful during the blue hour. Likewise, Limmat River and its reflection is especially charming.
STAY: Townhouse Boutique Hotel
Townhouse Boutique Hotel is located very near to both Zurich Hauptbahnhof and Bahnhofstrasse. The small English-style boutique hotel is nicely decorated with themed wallpapers. Its reception area is visually pleasing and the staff we met provides top notch services. I like the bright blue wallpaper room and the vintage charm. The room is of decent size but the bathroom is rather small. I would stay here again if I am back in Zurich.
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February 25, 2019