Setting aside the gnomenclature, we flew into ZRH for the very first time this morning and are impressed by the airport and the friendly Swiss it contains.
Our overnight flight from IAD on a 767 was just fine and we managed a few hours of sleep. Once we deplaned we found it was a fair walk to the train to take us to the transfer gates. The train, while similar to those in other airports, features such sound effects as birds singing and a few yodels. That, along with announcements in German, French, and English made it clear that we were now in Switzerland.
Immigration was swift and friendly. They are obviously set up for queues but it seems we arrived at a quiet time.
We're now sitting in the Swiss Airlines Senator Lounge, just outside the security checkpoint that will take us to our Austrian Airlines gate. A cup of coffee and maybe a little Swiss chocolate will equip us to face the day. Oh, and of course they feature meusli as well.
It's awhile since we've been in Europe, and an even longer time since we've been in Austria. We're looking forward to it.
Kathy and Brian
Two retired educators alternating joyfully between seeing the world and enjoying our eight grandchildren (in order of birth), Jake, Avery, Taegan, Lily, Peyton, Riley, Blane, and Jace.
Kathy and Brian met in the clarinet section of the University of California (Santa Barbara) Symphony Orchestra several decades ago.
Brian's Western Canadian roots and Kathy's Colorado ties resulted in their making beautiful music together along with producing a cross-border crop of descendants.
Kathy spent a year studying in Vienna at the Institute for European Studies and the University of Vienna.
Brian started the school band program in Hope, British Columbia, and later became the high school's vice-principal for 6 years and subsequently principal for 15 years before retiring in 2001.
Kathy, in between raising our three children, taught kindergarten and first grade, middle school, and high school - mathematics, computer studies, ESL, and her first love, band, before retiring in 2001.
We enjoy sharing our travel experiences and providing the odd travel tip to friends, relatives, and visitors.
