Zurich

Living in the southern part of Germany might be the best reason why it is more convenient for us to travel to the eastern and southern Europe (and way cheaper). I live in Munich, the capital of Bavaria, which is just 2 hours away from Austria, 3 hours from Switzerland, and just less than 6 hours away from eastern part of Europe such as Vienna and Prague. 

We took the bus from Hackerbrücke (Munich Cental Bus Station) to Zurich very early in the morning. The bus between these two large cities runs everyday (even some of them run 3-4 times a day). With a very affordable price ( I got only € 30 return), traveling to Switzerland may be the right option to get a little escape. 

Zurich, known as one of the most expensive cities in the world is the major destination for business as well as tourism in Switzerland. And as the German-speaking city, I didn't feel any difference as people talk Deutsch everywhere. I purchased the Zurich Day Card to stroll around the city more conveniently as I had only one and half day in Zurich. With 24 CHF (Swiss-Franc), travelers can use unlimited public transportation and free entry to some museums and galleries within 24 hours. Great deal.

Statue near the jetty of Zurich Lake

You don't want to visit Zurich without enjoying the breeze by the lake. Bring your lunchbox when it is sunny and find a good spot. I took the tram to Burkliplatz to reach the lakeside. 

After visiting some museums (for free!), I spent the rest of the day by just strolling around the Altstadt (old town). Be careful for the price, it's Zurich anyway. We went to Starbucks near the city center just to check the tumbler's price (because my friend collects them) and got surprised!. A typical Sbux tumbler costs about 20 CHF (€ 17 more or less) while in Munich, you can get them for only € 9. Yeah, it's Zurich anyway.

Riverside

If you are pretty rich (yeah!), then go to Bahnhofstrasse for luxurious shopping experience. Bahnhofstrasse in German means the station street, which describes that the place is located just across the Zurich Central Station. Lucky me, I got a free wine tasting at one of those shops (just keep your eyes and all your senses open to spot the free things!).

Fancy Journey?

I ended up the day with sleeping at the airport, just because I don't want to waste some euros just to sleep (only) for 5 hours at the hostel (geez, I'm saving for my next trip). But if you like, there are 2 famous youth hostels in town which cost about 33 CHF per night per person. It's up to you. And also because I had to catch the bus very early on the following day, sleeping at the airport might be the good option. 

So, here's the tips:

1. Don't forget to bring the Swiss-Franc with you. Avoid to take the cash from the machine (for me, never! except for the emergency)

2. Don't worry, everyone speaks English, although their official language is German. It's not Germany where people are too lazy to speak English :p

3. Bring the map, you can get them at the Tourist Information (Bahnhof) for free. Ask the officers for a help.

4. Try local delicacy. It is the one and only.....Swiss Chocolate!

5. Always bring your passport. Even though you have the EU Residence Permit, the passport controlling at the border between Austria and Switzerland can be tough.