GSE 5510 Switzerland

Final Farewell

2009-05-14T06:21:00.000-07:00

The day before we left, the families had a farewell party for us at the Jucker Farm, a beautiful farm in a tranquil setting overlooking a large lake. The farm has been a work in progress for three generations; It's a new way of farming for the Swiss, with all kinds of fruit orchards, strawberry patches, and large vegetable gardens where people can come and pick their own produce. Families can come and spend the day there where a restaurant is on sight with meals made from the farm.

We learned so much on our month long stay in Switzerland/Liechtenstein. We learned about Rotary, the Swiss/Liechtenstein culture, history, education, and business. I (Marina) believe we unanimously walk away from this experience having a deeper and richer understanding of both cultures and their people. We are extrememly appreciative for the experience and want to thank our host families for being such gracious hosts. Having stayed with four different families, we got an in depth view of the life of families within the culture. This was a part of the learning experience as well. We'd also like to thank our tour guides who took time out of their days to take us to the various places we visited, and informed us of the history of each place we visited. Many thanks to all of the people behind the scenes who organized this trip and made it all possible. We had a wonderful time, and will take this experience with us for the rest of our lives.

THANK YOU!!!

Technorama/Uetliberg

2009-05-07T14:57:00.000-07:00

Today was a day of adventure! We traveled to Winterthur to see Technorama, a very large hands-on science museum filled with all kinds of activities to explore and exhibits to see. The museum was three stories high, filled with all experimental stations that varied from magnets, to electricity. This was definitely the science enthusiasts playground.

Following Technorama, Marina, Kelly, and Vanessa ventured into Zurich and did some indoor rock climbing, while Kiana went shopping downtown, and Jim went to a Swiss SME specializing in the production of metalic parts and tools.

In the evening, we met up once again and ventured on a partial train ride and partial hike up the mountain of Uetliberg. The scenery on the way up was absolutely breath taking, with a view that overlooked Zurich, Lake of Zurich, and the snow covered Swiss Alps in the background. While at the top of the mountain, we ventured up even further to the top of a tower and took in the view. After the tower, we walked to the Uto Staffel, and enjoyed appetizers outside, then went inside for a meal of authentic fondue. Delicious! It was a beautiful sunny Spring day, and a great way to end a perfect day eating fondue, enjoying eachothers company and watching the sunset....Swiss style!

In and Around Zurich

2009-05-04T13:54:00.000-07:00

We arrived safely into our new homes in Zurich. After meeting our families at Restaurant Linde, the four girls headed to the Mittelalterlich Phantasie Spectaculum (a sort of German Renaissance Festival). By braving the cold and rain, we were able to watch musical acts, medieval sword fights, and enjoy some food and drinks.

On Sunday, we went to see the Landsgemeinde which is a system that two cantons in Switzerland (Glarus and Appenzell) still use to decide on issues that the public and/or politicians present to the public. The residents of Glarus are all invited to this event once a year and gather in the town center (in what they call "the circle"). After all citizens eligible to vote are sworn in, the platform and microphone are opened up to anyone who wishes to propose an idea. A vote is then taken, but not in the way that Americans are used to. These citizens vote by raising their hands! We were lucky to be able to watch this event from the first floor of the school house in the town center (Thank you to Rotarian Peter, the head of that school). Quite a cultural experience!

That evening our group along with the host ladies headed to the Opera House in Zurich for a ballet with music by Bach. Many of us had never seen a ballet before and were very happy to have the chance to see one - especially here in Zurich. The dancers were amazing with their athletic abilities and grace. We all really enjoyed this special evening.

Monday we headed to Kantonale Maturitätsschule für Erwachsene (KME) which is an adult education center. We were greeted by Rotarian Heinrich who taught us a bit about the school system in Switzerland (varies by canton, not by the country). KME is a place for adults to go who have decided that the apprenticeship that they chose and completed was not the one for them. They then go to KME to prepare for University. Students are typically in their early 20s, but some students are older. Heinrich brought us to different classrooms to see how their styles varied. We observed and participated in a chemistry, physics, math, English, and yoga lesson. It was a very interesting morning being able to see these different classes and the students who attended. After a "VIP" lunch and a question session, we headed out. Thank you to Heinrich and the other teachers who were so gracious in answering our questions!

We took a boat along the Limmat River to the center of Zurich where we spent time at the Clock Museum and then a bit of shopping. For dinner, we went to Erich's house where Rotarian Daniel presented about "Placebo and Medication". It was quite interesting to hear about the medical field and what some people believe. Our conversation ran right into dinner of salad, spaghetti, and fruit prepared by Erich's wife, daughter, and daughter-in-law. Another nice night out sharing ideas and good company.

An update finally!

2009-05-02T14:11:00.000-07:00

Having time to update the blog has become very scarce as we continue to travel all over Switzerland. I will attempt to update you in the next 5 minutes before I head to bed in order to wake up in time to see a Landsgemeinde in Glarus tomorrow morning. This event is where residents of the canton meet in the main village square to vote on political positions, laws, etc. The interesting thing is that it is done by a "show of hands" - yes, the people vote by raising their hands! More on that to come.
On Tuesday last week we took a day trip to Zurich. While there, we saw the famous Chagall windows, climbed to the top of a reformed church, and spent a little time shopping. That evening we went to a pizzeria and then heading to a yodeling performance by Rotarian Ernst. It was amazing to hear all the different sounds they made and how high some could sing!
Wednesday was our vocational morning. Kelly and Vanessa went to 2 English lessons within a primary school and high school. Kiana met with a local politician and Marina went to a large spa. In the evening, we had a meeting of the incoming and outgoing GSE groups. Both groups presented and then had time later to talk about the program. We, the Arizonans, attempted to warn them of the heat they would feel when they arrived in the states - hopefully they took our advice. They seem like a great group and for those of you that will meet them, I expect that you will really enjoy them.
Thursday morning we toured the Victorinox (Swiss Army Knife) Factory before heading for a boat ride to Luzern. Along the way, we stopped at the place where Switzerland was "born". It mostly looked like field overlooking the lake. When in Luzern, Walter took us on a tour of the city including a walk across the wooden Church Bridge. The city was beautiful.
Friday we were able to relax a bit in the morning before going to the airport to take a flight over Switzerland. The plane, owned by Rot. Benno, was a small, twin prop engine with 8 seats. The pilot did a wonderful job of flying us over Zurich, Luzern, Interlaken, and then around the Matterhorn. Seeing the mountains right outside the windows was an unbelievable experience. That evening, we had our going away dinner at a Chinese restaurant with all of our host families. It was another wonderful week in Switzerland!

Life South of Lake Zurich

2009-04-28T07:49:00.001-07:00

Hitching up for a carriage ride

Jim presents an Arizona banner to the Rotary Club - Basel

Marina and Vanessa drink water for a year of good health at the Monastery

View of Zurich

Puppenmuseum

Einsiedeln Monastery

We arrived on Saturday to the southern side of Lake Zurich where we will be staying for one week. So far, we have visited the Benedictine Abbey of Einsiedeln, a sacred ground for pilgrims from around the world. As legend says, a religious hermit was living in the woods where the monastery is now built. He was attacked and murdered by two men who fled to nearby Zurich. It was known by the villagers that the hermit kept two ravens as pets. As the men fled, the birds followed them alerting the townsmen of their guilt. They were later punished by medieval methods.

Monday we traveled to Basel where we visited the world's largest teddy bear collection. The museum also houses thousands of dolls and toy collectibles. For lunch we were guests of the Rotary Club Basel. Jim spoke regarding the Group Study Exchange and presented a banner to their club president. Later, we visited an art exhibition showing African statues and famous paintings from artists like Picasso, Matisse and Warhol.

Tuesday we spent the morning in Zurich. We viewed the famous Chagall stain glass windows in a reformed church. Following we ate lunch in a bier hall and went shopping. Tonight we will be enjoying a yodel performance while dining in an Italian restaurant. Yooooooooodelaheeeeeeeeeeewhoooo.

Goodbye to Liechtenstein

2009-04-24T06:23:00.000-07:00

We learned so much about Liechtenstein; it is one of the smallest countries of the world, yet one of the most industrial countries per capita. It has a population of 35,000 and has 32,000 businesses. The country is magestic in it's beauty, so green and lush. It is nestled in a valley surrounded by the Swiss Alps, and in the center of the valley is the Rhine river, which separates Liechtenstein by Switzerland. The people are so friendly and the country is so clean.

The government of Liechtenstein is unique in that it is a monarchy with a democratic base. The parliament is elected by the people, then the parliament elects the Prime Minister and his assistants. Liechtenstein has a prince, Hans-Adam II. On Thursday we had a tour of Vaduz, the country's capital which sits below the castle where the Prince resides (picture below). We also toured his winery and got to taste the different wines from the region. Also on the agenda, was a tour of the Liechtenstein Post Office with the CEO of the postal service. We got to see the efficient and very fast machines which sort out the country's mail.

The Vaterland newspaper of Liechtenstein, took our picture and printed an article about our visit to their country. The article gave information about the GSE exchange program that Rotary offers to young business professionals. On Friday, we had lunch with the Eschnerberg Rotary Club of Liechtenstein, where we gave our presentations once again in German. The Liechtensteiners were so gracious in hosting us and gave us so many opportunities to see both their beautiful country and the Alps in Switzerland. We once again had an amazing week and met so many wonderful friends.

Glacier Express, Zermatt and the Matterhorn

2009-04-24T00:20:00.000-07:00

On Tuesday we boarded the famous Glacier Express. With its panorama windows and spacious seating, it offers the most beautiful way to access the carless town of Zermatt. While there, we stayed at the Hotel Sonne and enjoyed a bountiful five course meal. On Wednesday, we made the trek up the Klein Matterhorn (Little Matterhorn). After changing on 3 different cable cars and climbing the 3883 meters, we were at the summit. It was one of the most breathtaking adventures we have ever embarked. We are very grateful to the Liechentenstein Rotary Club for sending us on this most beautiful trip!

Hilti Corporation Tour and Staubern Berge

2009-04-20T12:40:00.000-07:00

This morning we set off on our tour of the Hilti Cooperation. Hilti is the leading partner to construction companies around the world, manufacturing tools for any job. The company began in 1941 when the founders, Martin and Eugen Hilti, opened a small workshop in Schaan Liechtenstein after inventing a power actuated fastening system. Through continuous innovation and dedication, the company has grown into the global market, employing more than 20,000 people worldwide. We were shown the main exhibits on the history and current state of the company as well as led through one of the manufacturing plants. We watched as the tools were constructed by the manufacturing workers. Most of the work was done by hand in assembly lines. Hilti incorporates several types of assembling lines: the common straight line, U shaped and the Push and Pull method. The products are made "Just In Time" or on an "as ordered" basis. They do not stock pile finished goods, rather, they make them when ordered. We dined at the Hilti cafeteria where they offer an array of healthy choices for their workers. They not only focus on making quality tools, but on maintaining a quality work environment that supports a healthy lifestyle.
In the afternoon we rode in a cable car to the top of the Staubern Mountain where we were able to view all of Liechtenstein, and parts of Austria and Switzerland. The cable car was quite small, and we did fear for our lives as we climbed 1200 meters. Jim especially loved the experience. Once at the top, we trekked through the snow and enjoyed a relaxing drink in the restaurant. We even made a tiny snowman. It was quite an amazing sight!

Heidiland

2009-04-20T12:12:00.000-07:00

Yesterday Vanessa and Kiana's host families took them to see the alleged home of Heidi. Heidi the book was originally written in 1880 by Johanna Spyri and later made famous by the 1937 movie starring Shirley Temple. This is a picture of the home amongst the beautiful countryside. The second picture is Herbert, Vanessa's host father, pretending to dine on some lovely Heidi grub.

Day with Our Host Families

2009-04-19T13:23:00.001-07:00

This picture is from the top of Karren in Austria overlooking the town below.

Today was free to spend with our host families. This was our first and only free day on this journey and it was spent well. I (Kelly) went to Austria, Germany, Liechtenstein, and Switzerland. Besides a cable car ride up Karren in Austria, we also went to Lindau, Germany for a bit of sightseeing and shopping. For dinner we had the regional specialty of schnitzel at Feldkirch Castle in Austria. At one point I was able to stand on a wooden bridge over the Rhine River on the border on Switzerland and Liechtenstein. Tomorrow we are going to visit the Hilti Factory and then to Staubern und Frumsen (mountain by cable car).

Liechtenstein - How Big?

2009-04-18T14:38:00.000-07:00

Well, we arrived in Liechtenstein today after driving a bit around Switzerland. Along the way we stopped at a "Musik" Museum where we saw a bunch of instruments that played by themselves (like a player piano). The history was neat and the sound amazing. We had lunch at a restaurant where Marina and Kiana ordered fish that was cooked whole, presented to them, and then the staff fileted (is this a word?) for them. Right before the border, we stopped in a small town called Werdenberg and looked through a museum. Once in Liechtenstein, we met with our host families and had a nice dinner at one of the cafeterias of their business. They were very welcoming and seem excited for our stay. I have a feeling we will learn a ton about this small country (of which I have already travelled across half of in 20 minutes).

Tomorrow my (Kelly) family and I are going to Austria and Germany. Everything is so close here!

The picture is of the four of us in Werdenberg by a lake. It was a beautiful afternoon.

Goodbye St. Gallen :o( Hello Lichtenstein :o)

2009-04-18T12:56:00.000-07:00

Today we left our families in St. Gallen and set out for Lichtenstein. It was a bittersweet day.

Over the last two days, our expert guide, Peter Weber, took us through all the beauty that St. Gallen and its surroundings have to offer. On Thursday, we went to the Bischoff upholstery factory where we learned the ins and outs of creating quality embroidery. After a presentation and lunch meeting, we were off to the Maestroni chocolate factory. There we sampled all the chocolate we could stand and were able to view the process of making the delicacy that is Swiss chocolate. We were then led through the town of Wil and enjoyed a coffee while hearing the history of this well preserved historical town. We concluded our day with an exquisite dinner at an old medieval castle with our host families.

On Friday we visited the quaint town of Appenzell where we sampled their world famous cheese. We took a cable car to the top of the Santis Mountains. During the spring and summer, the Appenzell farmers and cheese makers make the traditional journey into the Alps to graze their cows and make cheese the way of their forefathers. Every autumn they make the journey back down the mountains before the harsh winter begins. Although we couldn't see very much due to the snow and wind, it was an exciting adventure.

This morning we departed for Lichtenstein and met our new host families. We are very excited to see what the next chapter will bring!

First Official Day!

2009-04-15T10:10:00.000-07:00

Whew! What a way to start! We began the day learning about Switzerland when Peter Weber presented a slideshow at the Hotel Einstein. From there, we went to our individual vocational visits. Vanessa and Kelly went to an elementary school English lesson while Kiana and Marina went to an herbal pharmacy. For lunch, we gave our first presentation to the St. Gallen Freudenberg club in German. We were the first group in 8 years to actually do it in German! They served us rabbit and veal....Thumper and Bessie. AND, eat your heart out AZ Rotarians, they serve wine at their meetings! In the afternoon, we saw the most beautiful baroque library at the monastery. It is renowned for its beauty and ancient books written by the monks. Then we went to the St. Gallen Cathedral where we were given a behind the scenes tour of the clock towers; complete with a stroll atop the 10 story cathedral. Best view in town! In the late afternoon, we went to the Pestilozzi Orphange and learned about their global effort to help disadvantaged children. We're finishing up with having a brew at an outdoor bistro on a cobblestone street.

Only 3 more days!

2009-04-10T16:00:00.000-07:00

Back when we all found out that we were selected for this trip, it seemed like it would never come. Well surprise, here it is! The final itinerary came to us this week and it looks better than we could have imagined. Some of the highlights that I (Kelly) am looking forward to are the Glacier Express to Zermatt, cable car up Klein (Little) Matterhorn, and a possible panoramic flight over the Alps. The Rotary clubs of Switzerland have really planned an eventful and educational experience for us. Some of the group members have contacted their host families via e-mail and all seem very excited.
Thanks to those of you that are following along with us via this blog. We appreciate your support and look forward to sharing more with you!

p.s. Picture of some of the things I need to pack - books for host families, Rotary nametag, travel converter, and cheez - its!

Final Preparations

2009-04-05T15:09:00.000-07:00

Its hard to believe that our departure date is almost here. The group got together today to finalize the powerpoint and to go over some last minute things - what to pack, how to deal if they don't have a powerpoint system, what host gifts to bring, etc. There is definitely a lot to think about!
We leave on Monday, April 13th at 8:00 am. After a layover at Washington Dulles, we'll arrive in Zurich at 8:00 a.m. Once we arrive, we'll be picked up by Peter, the Swiss Rotarian in charge of our program there, and brought to our host families for lunch. Hopefully the afternoon walk will refresh us and help with the jetlag so we are ready to present the next day!
While we don't know exactly what to expect, we are so excited for the upcoming adventure. The host families that we have talked to sound very nice and the itinerary sounds absolutely amazing.
T-minus 7 days and counting!

2009-03-15T19:37:00.000-07:00

We are all working very hard to get prepared for our upcoming journey to Switzerland. Today we finalized the Powerpoint and took our pictures both individual and group. We are all working on learning German, getting ready to leave our homes for a month, and buying boots to hike in!