Bern

Arrived Zurich about 8.20 am, caught the train to the baggage claim (yes, my bag arrived), and adjourned to a coffee shop to sort the travel SIM card. Success there and onto the train station and caught train to Bern. Anne-Marie was there to meet me and we walked the short distance to the National Hotel. Not surprisingly, given it was only midday, the room I was to have was not available but they offered another which I took, so I could ditch my bags. AM and then went across the road and got some lunch - or rather, I got some lunch and AM had a coffee. We went our separate ways after that - she has a sore knee so not on for a walk but I needed one to help stay awake! Wandered around the old town and then came up back for a welcome shower and a rest. Managed another shorter foray out including an early light dinner and had a lovely time watching the passing parade in the street.
Fine and warmer than expected.
Bundesplatz where the irregular fountain was giving a child great joy, the 13th C clock tower with 15th C astronomical clock, streets where the bike reigns supreme (vehicular traffic apart from the ubiquitous trams is less common), a hotchpot of different styles in this collection of buildings, the 120 year old lift at my hotel (which only goes to level 4 and I’m on 5) , an historical gate to a school for girls although the date line says o my 1896 to 1898, lots of spring growth and flowers with buzzing bees, and a light meal watching the passing parade.Read more