Zürich
Last Week on the Road
My Epic Journey So Far
Today’s Weather Report
Ah, Zürich, you’re a chilly charmer at a crisp 10.91°C, pretending to be 9.39°C. Clear sky, you say? More like an endless blue trampoline, bouncing the sun’s rays right at my gnome-sized sunglasses. At 51% humidity, it’s less damp than my jokes and the wind at 3.09 m/s is just fast enough to mess up my bearded ‘do. But hey, a gnome’s gotta do what a gnome’s gotta do – travel, explore and make bad hair day jokes. Onwards!
Swiss-ing Around Zürich!
My journey from Lucerne to Zürich was a comfortable 40.4 kilometers. Now, you might not think that’s much for a gnome with my level of experience, but remember, I’m not as spry as I used to be!
As I meandered along the winding Swiss roads, I couldn’t help but notice the contrast between the serenity of the Swiss countryside and the bustling pace of the city. It’s as if I was crossing an invisible border, from a realm of tranquility into a sphere of vibrant energy. I remember a local saying that goes, “Stadtluft macht frei” (City air sets you free). I couldn’t agree more!
Speaking of borders, the language did change from German to Swiss German, but as a seasoned traveler, I adapted quickly. The Swiss have a wonderful saying, “Dr schneller isch dr gschwinder” (The quicker one is the speedier). I took it to heart and tried my best to keep up with the pace!
Now, let’s talk numbers. I’ve been on the road for 106 glorious days, traveled a grand total of 2907.7 kilometers, and recently made stops in Zürich, Zug, Lucerne, Zürich, Winterthur. Quite the adventure, don’t you agree?
As I’m sitting here in Zürich, I can’t help but hum a local tune that goes, “Züri, Züri, du bisch mini Stadt” (Zürich, Zürich, you are my city). It’s catchy and it’s making me feel right at home.
Before I sign off, let me share a bit of gnome wisdom with you. “Reisen ist die beste Bildung” (Travel is the best education). So, here’s to more adventures, more km under my belt, and more wisdom to share with you all!
Until next time, Auf Wiedersehen! (Goodbye!)
Wandering Zürich’s Streets
Gnome’s Quirky Canvas Capers
Painted en plein air while taking in the sights of Zürich.
— Oliver the Gnome, aspiring artist
Zürich: Saints, Dada, and Yodels!
Secondly, Zürich is also known for its contribution to the Dada movement. The Cabaret Voltaire is where this art movement began. In Swiss German, we’d say “Es isch e wichtige Ort für Künstler” (It’s an important place for artists). A visit there is like stepping into an art history book. From Hugo Ball to Emmy Hennings, it’s an artists’ haven.
Remember, in Zürich, the past and present are not separate, but fused together, creating a culture uniquely their own.
Veal-ing Zurich’s Sauté Secrets!
Tired from my travels, I stumble upon the heart of Zürich, a city teeming with history and rich culture. While chatting with the locals, I find myself intrigued by a traditional dish, Zürcher Geschnetzeltes.
As the aroma leads me into the kitchen, I observe keenly. The chef, with a twinkle in his eye, says in Swiss German, “Schwiizerdütsch isch eifach z’cool!” (“Swiss German is just too cool!”).
He swiftly sautés 500g veal in butter, seasoned with salt and pepper. Once browned, he sets it aside. In the same pan, he adds 2 chopped shallots, and 2 cloves of garlic. Once they’re tender, he pours in 120ml white wine, 120ml cream and adds the veal back in. He lets it simmer until the sauce thickens. Voila, Zürcher Geschnetzeltes ready!
Stomach grumbling, I can’t wait to dig in and bid everyone, “En guete!” (“Enjoy your meal!”).
Zürich’s Gnome-Spotting Guide
See you tomorrow!
Around the World on Foot, in Many, Many Days 