Visiting my Favourite people, where they're at.

So Europe, there's something about it, something that I love. My aunt Nikki very perceptibly labelled it an authenticity that is part of the romance embedded in the the history, the landscape and the buildings that people from North America are intensely drawn to. I happily agree with that. It then follows that the people who grow up within and immersed in that environment would have and live by different values than those whom I grew up with and others whom I've met around the world. I think it's these values that I adore so much:

Quality of the food, maintaining what is here, both buildings and spaces, using the public areas, knowing your neighbours, a sense of pride for where you come from right down to the one block neighbourhood being different from one across the street.

Canada is considered a cultural mosaic, made up of people from many nationalities and cultures. Yet, in my experience the lines are much more blurred in Canada. In Europe you drink the wine of the region you're in, and when you want a nice meal you eat the specific food of that region. Does Canada have anything more Canadian to offer than poutine and maple syrup?

So in travelling even an hour or two to visit a friend I get to see, experience, and taste a different reality, or way of life, The architecture changes, the food has a special flair and the people even an alternate look.

Where did I visit?
Amsterdam, best layover ever. I was met at the airport by a Beautiful Italian brining me my favourite beer in the world, (Leffe Brune) 

Bern, finally I get to experience the Capital of Switzerland in a recently renovated flat inside of an old industrial building where you can see both the new and old wooden beams. Then, 15 minutes outside the City a wonderful foothills hike and a stellar view, not to mention the incredibly company.

Gerzensee, between Bern and Thun, getting to be apart of daily life with an amazing family; yard work, watching the kids, meeting with friends and meals with family, I felt included and encouraged simply by being here

Luzern for Lunch and conversations about life followed by a walking tour of the some gorgeous and prophetic artwork finishing up on the calming lake front.

Locarno, a change of pace from the chalet inspired architecture of the mountains to the Italian themed terracotta, and all it takes is a train ride through one mountain pass. Not to mention to the food changing from fondue to polenta. I Stayed at the Casa Borgo B&B, an amazing place with an even more amazing family that makes you feel so loved and interesting from the moment you arrive and after you leave.

Lugano, the “black market” of Switzerland where the shady people from Italy enter for an upgrade in lifestyle. We hiked a popular route that used to be a part of two different ski areas that no longer get enough snow. I called my friend to let her know I was in the same continent two days before arriving to visit; “SURPRISE!”

Aosta, I may not have known anyone here, but I can't help but love a place surrounded by mountains.