Switzerland Itinerary!
Sep 6th, 2016, 11:59 PM
#41
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@ swandav: Until other arrangements can be made, I'd love it if you would raise a glass to my memories of that area, and to your help in planning my time in stunning Switzerland. 
Enjoy your time in a corner of the world that I know you truly treasure!
Enjoy your time in a corner of the world that I know you truly treasure!
Sep 7th, 2016, 03:26 AM
#43
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Swandav, you are the best! Thank you again for taking so much time and effort to help me. I know it truly will have changed my trip for the better and I very much appreciate that. Noted about the chocolate train.
Drchris- Thank you for that. it's very helpful to hear your experiences at the different hotels. I hope to book some today!
A big thanks to all who have contributed in some way to this discussion.
Drchris- Thank you for that. it's very helpful to hear your experiences at the different hotels. I hope to book some today!
A big thanks to all who have contributed in some way to this discussion.
Sep 7th, 2016, 01:47 PM
#44
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Yes be sure to take the Golden Pass scenic train between Interlaken and Montreux - you can get vaunted VIP seats if you book way early - these have you sitting in a compartment next to the driver so you simulate driving the train (some VIP seats however are in the rear of the train looking back).
http://www.goldenpass.ch/en/goldenpass/offer/view?id=14
And in the Jungfrau Region, part of the much wider ranging Berner Oberland region Grindelwald has all that you want - scintillating views and there is a lot of night life like you like - as much perhaps as in Interlaken (last time I was there the Hooters was a hot spot!)
http://www.goldenpass.ch/en/goldenpass/offer/view?id=14
And in the Jungfrau Region, part of the much wider ranging Berner Oberland region Grindelwald has all that you want - scintillating views and there is a lot of night life like you like - as much perhaps as in Interlaken (last time I was there the Hooters was a hot spot!)
Sep 8th, 2016, 12:02 PM
#48
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The rap on Grindelwald from swandav and others is that tour buses penetrate the town and it is a lot busier, etc. as opposed to car-less Wengen, her favorite and a favorite of many for its isolation and no vehicular traffic -but you seem to want a livelier town with nightlife for your age and you will find that in Grindelwald IME for sure.
Sep 8th, 2016, 01:37 PM
#49
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BTW- I respect swandav's take on things greatly - do not mean to imply criticism about her (WRONG) impressions of Grindelwald and Interlaken! These are subjective things and whatever one likes one likes - I actually now only stay in Interlaken - a really nice town if it were not on every tourists trek into getting into the hills- a regional town with lots of everything a regional town has and IME cheaper accommodations if you want than up in dem hills.
Actually when I was your ages I stayed in the Nature Friends House in Grindelwald - really nice private rooms available and not a hostel but kind of - many hikers and skiiers of all ages stay in this communal chalet with a kitchen and cooking facilities to be used by all and cheaper than hotels - on a secluded path sans any vehicles.
https://www.hotelscombined.com/Hotel...es_Friends.htm
Actually when I was your ages I stayed in the Nature Friends House in Grindelwald - really nice private rooms available and not a hostel but kind of - many hikers and skiiers of all ages stay in this communal chalet with a kitchen and cooking facilities to be used by all and cheaper than hotels - on a secluded path sans any vehicles.
https://www.hotelscombined.com/Hotel...es_Friends.htm
Sep 8th, 2016, 08:26 PM
#50
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FWIW, I was not impressed with Grindelwald – I found it unpleasantly crowded, and I preferred the views from elsewhere in the Bernese Oberland. But I only saw it once, and more importantly, vive la différence! Thank goodness we travel with different interests and preferences, and that people with different perspectives provide their impressions here on Fodor's!
Perhaps it’s just me, but I am growing very weary of unnecessary arguments over personal preferences about this part of the world, arguments that become necessary only because specific others are mentioned or specific views attacked in a way that provokes a legitimate need to defend oneself. I honestly don’t see the need….
Perhaps it’s just me, but I am growing very weary of unnecessary arguments over personal preferences about this part of the world, arguments that become necessary only because specific others are mentioned or specific views attacked in a way that provokes a legitimate need to defend oneself. I honestly don’t see the need….
Sep 8th, 2016, 09:03 PM
#51
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No, I don't care for Grindelwald though I've stayed there for 1 week two separate times, once with my mom.
I think you'll remember, Pal, that my comments about the tour busses in Interlaken & Grindelwald are for folks who plan to stay there in July & August, when there are a lot of tour busses in town. But this OP is going in late September, so it's a completely different story then. In fact, you may be surprised to recall that, in THIS thread, I recommended the OP stay in Interlaken because of his/her specific preferences. I wrote this above:
**But actually neither town will give you that "nightlife" and "popping in & out of shops" that you mention . . . So you may actually be happier staying in Interlaken or even in Thun (Thun is a very sweet town that sits right on Lake Thun, gorgeous situation).**
So, in this case, yes, I do agree with you. For this OP, and for this time of year, either Grindelwald or Interlaken would work best.
I do think it's strange that you say you don't want to criticize my posts, but in the same sentence you say blatantly that I am "WRONG." I think you meant to say that, "In my opinion, that is WRONG." You're quite a strange fellow.
s
I think you'll remember, Pal, that my comments about the tour busses in Interlaken & Grindelwald are for folks who plan to stay there in July & August, when there are a lot of tour busses in town. But this OP is going in late September, so it's a completely different story then. In fact, you may be surprised to recall that, in THIS thread, I recommended the OP stay in Interlaken because of his/her specific preferences. I wrote this above:
**But actually neither town will give you that "nightlife" and "popping in & out of shops" that you mention . . . So you may actually be happier staying in Interlaken or even in Thun (Thun is a very sweet town that sits right on Lake Thun, gorgeous situation).**
So, in this case, yes, I do agree with you. For this OP, and for this time of year, either Grindelwald or Interlaken would work best.
I do think it's strange that you say you don't want to criticize my posts, but in the same sentence you say blatantly that I am "WRONG." I think you meant to say that, "In my opinion, that is WRONG." You're quite a strange fellow.
s
Sep 9th, 2016, 12:52 PM
#54
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same sentence you say blatantly that I am "WRONG." I think you meant to say that, "In my opinion, that is WRONG>
That was meant in complete jest and I regret not portraying that -my whole post about our differences was meant not to be critical bus to portray who different folks feel about places and I tried to give balance- describing the virtual of both and saying it was my opinion only and others disagree.
I did not mean to revive an argument- believe me but that folks like kja and you read that into I again regret. Again I meant it all in a good vein and thought I portrayed that -
Sorry for the sincere misunderstanding on my part and your misunderstanding my attentions, quite naturally so in retrospect!
It won't happen again.
That was meant in complete jest and I regret not portraying that -my whole post about our differences was meant not to be critical bus to portray who different folks feel about places and I tried to give balance- describing the virtual of both and saying it was my opinion only and others disagree.
I did not mean to revive an argument- believe me but that folks like kja and you read that into I again regret. Again I meant it all in a good vein and thought I portrayed that -
Sorry for the sincere misunderstanding on my part and your misunderstanding my attentions, quite naturally so in retrospect!
It won't happen again.
Sep 10th, 2016, 01:09 PM
#56
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Well at least we are on the same page NOW - and it relieves me to know you know I was not trying to rekindle some of our previous at times contentious debates - I deeply respect your takes- and admire you great expertise on Switzerland (EXCEPT on Interlaken!)(Just joking!)
Cheers!
Cheers!
Sep 10th, 2016, 09:43 PM
#57
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@ tonygabe: Sorry for yet another comment that doesn't really address your questions....
@ PalenQ:
To be clear, I do not question your intentions. I am firmly convinced that your aim is to be a constructive contributor to Fodor’s community, and I don't believe that you would <b>ever</b> intentionally say anything to be hurtful or disrespectful.
That said, I would, however, venture to say that after years of comments about locations in the Bernese Oberland -- comments that result in arguments and apologies -- I think there might be value in concluding that your comments are, no matter how unintentionally, causing anger or frustration or malaise or whatever … but certainly <b>not</b> universal laughter. And that makes me think that, at this point, you have two basic choices: (1) stop trying to be humorous in these remarks, as it is obviously not working, or (2) continue attempting humor, even though each new failed attempt seems to make a mockery of all the apologies you have offered and seems increasingly disrespectful to those with whom you have, supposedly, reached an amicable understanding. JMO.
Whatever you do, I hope that you don’t stop telling people about your preferences, as we all have different perspectives and knowing about likes and dislikes can be very helpful to those who are seeking more information about the area. So please, continue telling people that you enjoyed Grindelwald, and tell them why!
And feel free to add that you are aware that not everyone agrees – just don’t name us, don’t try to speak for us, and please <u>please <b>please</b></u>, don’t refer to previous debates. Frankly, IMO, doing so can be construed as a sort of baiting; will make no sense to most OPs (except as "evidence" that you are criticizing others or intentionally reviving old arguments); and is, IMO, part of what makes some of your attempts at humor so hard to tolerate. JMO, of course.
Again, I am not questioning your intentions, just trying to give you some input on how I, at least, read some of your posts -- which could, of course, say far more about me than you! And I’m not trying to tell you what to do – quite in contrast, I’m trying to clarify some of your options.
Thanks in advance for understanding that I offer these comments from a position of respect and gratitude for your years of service to Fodorites and a hope that you will continue to offer your expertise and experience as generously and constructively as possible. I know that I still have a lot to learn about how to be a good Fodorite, and how my comments might sometimes hit the wrong nerve; I look forward to learning together.
@ tonygabe: Again, sorry for the digression....
@ PalenQ:
To be clear, I do not question your intentions. I am firmly convinced that your aim is to be a constructive contributor to Fodor’s community, and I don't believe that you would <b>ever</b> intentionally say anything to be hurtful or disrespectful.
That said, I would, however, venture to say that after years of comments about locations in the Bernese Oberland -- comments that result in arguments and apologies -- I think there might be value in concluding that your comments are, no matter how unintentionally, causing anger or frustration or malaise or whatever … but certainly <b>not</b> universal laughter. And that makes me think that, at this point, you have two basic choices: (1) stop trying to be humorous in these remarks, as it is obviously not working, or (2) continue attempting humor, even though each new failed attempt seems to make a mockery of all the apologies you have offered and seems increasingly disrespectful to those with whom you have, supposedly, reached an amicable understanding. JMO.
Whatever you do, I hope that you don’t stop telling people about your preferences, as we all have different perspectives and knowing about likes and dislikes can be very helpful to those who are seeking more information about the area. So please, continue telling people that you enjoyed Grindelwald, and tell them why!
And feel free to add that you are aware that not everyone agrees – just don’t name us, don’t try to speak for us, and please <u>please <b>please</b></u>, don’t refer to previous debates. Frankly, IMO, doing so can be construed as a sort of baiting; will make no sense to most OPs (except as "evidence" that you are criticizing others or intentionally reviving old arguments); and is, IMO, part of what makes some of your attempts at humor so hard to tolerate. JMO, of course.
Again, I am not questioning your intentions, just trying to give you some input on how I, at least, read some of your posts -- which could, of course, say far more about me than you! And I’m not trying to tell you what to do – quite in contrast, I’m trying to clarify some of your options.
Thanks in advance for understanding that I offer these comments from a position of respect and gratitude for your years of service to Fodorites and a hope that you will continue to offer your expertise and experience as generously and constructively as possible. I know that I still have a lot to learn about how to be a good Fodorite, and how my comments might sometimes hit the wrong nerve; I look forward to learning together.
@ tonygabe: Again, sorry for the digression....
Sep 12th, 2016, 11:51 AM
#58
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Both swandav and PalenQ have been immensely helpful in planning my trip. Thank you, again.
I actually do have another question so would like to put the focus back on travel for a moment. I'll direct the question to PalenQ since he seems to know the most on the matter, but anyone can feel free to answer. I was wondering if it was worthwhile to get the Swiss Travel Pass for 8 days. It costs about $388 (USD). When I run the math on the individual trips, I find that it only comes about to about $279. Those trips are Zurich to Luzern, Golden Pass round trip for Pilatus, Luzern to Grindelwald, Grindelwald to Montreux, and Montreux to Geneva airport. Note the exclusion of the Jungrau summit. I think I would get 50% off on the Pilatus and Jungfrau excursions. It seems like the pass would offer me the convenience of not having to wait on queue to buy tickets, but not sure if that convenience is worth the additional cost. Any insight? Thanks!
I actually do have another question so would like to put the focus back on travel for a moment. I'll direct the question to PalenQ since he seems to know the most on the matter, but anyone can feel free to answer. I was wondering if it was worthwhile to get the Swiss Travel Pass for 8 days. It costs about $388 (USD). When I run the math on the individual trips, I find that it only comes about to about $279. Those trips are Zurich to Luzern, Golden Pass round trip for Pilatus, Luzern to Grindelwald, Grindelwald to Montreux, and Montreux to Geneva airport. Note the exclusion of the Jungrau summit. I think I would get 50% off on the Pilatus and Jungfrau excursions. It seems like the pass would offer me the convenience of not having to wait on queue to buy tickets, but not sure if that convenience is worth the additional cost. Any insight? Thanks!
Sep 12th, 2016, 01:03 PM
#59
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tony -that is a hard question to answer - if that is all you are going to do and nothing more I'd go with regular tickets - can buy them all at once at any Swiss station I believe.
And you may find a 3-day flexipass+ 1/2 off Half-Fare Card to be a better deal - not sure but check it out - seems an 8-day pass is an over kill for what you are doing or the straight up Half-Fare Card which costs about $130 so at $279 that's a break even point and you could even get 50% off Jungfrau summit if doing so. (Swiss Pass only gives 25% off Grindelwald/Wengen to Jungfraujoch - a big difference - one reason the Flexipass + Half-Off Half-Fare Card may be a better deal than a consecutive-day pass.
Incidentals - consecutive-day passes cover all city transports, boats and give free entry to 470+ museums and sights- like I believe Trummelbach Falls near Lauterbrunnen (great BTW!)
So many options - hard to recommend but investigate those other options- 8-day pass seems not needed but again you may travel a bit more than you think - always possible - wet weather in Alps do a day trip to Bern, etc.
In Montreux even doing a boat ride on Lake Geneva would be covered - I took one once late in the afternoon to Evian-les-Bains in France - suave spa town with casino and famous mineral water - on a whim. And lake boats on Lake Lucerne - like to get to Pilatus train boat to Alpnachstad, etc. A few of these could make the pass you are thinking of a better match and yes for things fully covered just hop on board.
Sorry can't give you a definitive response but if I could save $110 by regular tickets I would but the other angles I mention could make that different.
The pass is the easy way out of doing all the maths and knowing exactly what you may be doing once there due to weather, etc.
And you may find a 3-day flexipass+ 1/2 off Half-Fare Card to be a better deal - not sure but check it out - seems an 8-day pass is an over kill for what you are doing or the straight up Half-Fare Card which costs about $130 so at $279 that's a break even point and you could even get 50% off Jungfrau summit if doing so. (Swiss Pass only gives 25% off Grindelwald/Wengen to Jungfraujoch - a big difference - one reason the Flexipass + Half-Off Half-Fare Card may be a better deal than a consecutive-day pass.
Incidentals - consecutive-day passes cover all city transports, boats and give free entry to 470+ museums and sights- like I believe Trummelbach Falls near Lauterbrunnen (great BTW!)
So many options - hard to recommend but investigate those other options- 8-day pass seems not needed but again you may travel a bit more than you think - always possible - wet weather in Alps do a day trip to Bern, etc.
In Montreux even doing a boat ride on Lake Geneva would be covered - I took one once late in the afternoon to Evian-les-Bains in France - suave spa town with casino and famous mineral water - on a whim. And lake boats on Lake Lucerne - like to get to Pilatus train boat to Alpnachstad, etc. A few of these could make the pass you are thinking of a better match and yes for things fully covered just hop on board.
Sorry can't give you a definitive response but if I could save $110 by regular tickets I would but the other angles I mention could make that different.
The pass is the easy way out of doing all the maths and knowing exactly what you may be doing once there due to weather, etc.
Sep 12th, 2016, 01:38 PM
#60
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kja - see my response to swandav and the misunderstanding - I meant no malice and forgot that others like you would not get the good-natured comment to swandav as I intended - and note that I resolve to not make that mistake again. Point well taken before you posted this. Never never never ever ever again - and I try always to give both points of views on places like Grindelwald and Interlaken and TMK always say in my opinion but others... why they don't like it, etc.
Cheers!
Cheers!
