So, we are spending the weekend in Lausanne, Switzerland. Aside from a day or two in Geneva when I was 16 (of which, I have only a faint memory) and a Swiss-German acquaintance back in New York, I have very little experience with Switzerland.
I do know that Lausanne is in the French-speaking part of the country. This is more than a little schade, since I think all this German has totally displaced my three years of French study from the early 1990’s (and I don’t think its coming back). But I have been told that people there do know how to speak German, if pressed (and if they don’t know that you speak English). Truth or fairy tale? I will be sure to report back next week.
Aside from the language shenanigans, it should be fun times. Do any of you have helpful tips and/or suggestions for touring in Lausanne? If so, please share!
I’ve been to Lausanne on a number of occasions to visit a friend – it’s nice city – small and compact and built on the side of a mountain – ok – a hill anyway but walking from the lake to the city centre is a long slog – the old part of town near the cathedral is quaint, the shopping is good, go to Ouchy to walk along the lake. Find either of the 2 Ethiopian restaurants and you’ll have a good meal! There is the naive art gallery, the Olympic museum, a wander into the cathedral (it has nice stained glass) etc. It’s just a nice place to be! I am not sure about the German speaking – my impression is that they would prefer to speak English than German.
Di: Thanks for all your helpful tips about Lausanne! We had a lovely time this weekend and were able to check out the cathedral, walk along the Ouchy waterfront, visit the Olympic museum, and eat dinner at one of the Ethiopian restaurants (also recommended by our host). I’ll be posting a full report and pictures soon!