Interlaken Local Custom Tips by Ekaterinburg

Bollywood in Interlaken

On Donna in India's VT page, she mentioned the high numbers of Indian visitors to Interlaken because it's used a lot as a setting in Bollywood movies. Before I ever reached Interlaken I had clear evidence of this as a huge commotion marked the train's stop at Bern. An Indian family of several generations, boarded the train for Interlaken and I have never in my life seen so much luggage. This was reminiscent of the Grand Tour of Europe that people used to indulge in before securty and baggage restrictions got in the way. You probably think I'm exaggerating but have a look at the photo. In addition to what they brought to their seats, ALL this luggage stacked at the end of the carriage, belonged to this family. Fancy bringing that on a Ryan Air Flight ?

Website: http://www.rail.ch

Swiss Efficiency

Forget about stereotypes and cliches, Swiss systems and people actually are as efficient as you have heard. Over and over again I was blown away by the wonders of the transport system. Trains and buses which arrive ON TIME. Connecting buses always waiting when you get off the train. Especially helpful to the English speaking traveller are the announcements before trains arrive, telling you which part of the platform to stand on, depending on which type of ticket you hold. My favourite example of this streamlining of schedules is the return trip from Gimmelwald to Interlaken.

7.00: Cable car to Stechelberg

7.10: Bus from Stechelberg to Lauterbrunnen

7.30: Train from Lauterbrunnen to Interlaken

7.55: Arrive at Interlaken Ost

To somebody fresh from the vagaries of the Irish transport system, this efficency was all the more amazing and it makes travelling a pleasure. Well done Switzerland !

The photo below shows a tiny exception but as we all know exceptions prove the rule

Website: http://www.rail.ch