Rajasthan
Rajasthan – The «Land of Kings»
Located in the northwest of India, India’s largest state Rajasthan attracts visitors, characterized by history, culture and desert landscapes in bright colors. With its majestic forts standing like silent sentinels of bygone eras, bustling bazaars and a variety of folk traditions, the past seems to merge seamlessly into the present here. From the pink walls of Jaipur to the sun-soaked dunes of Jaisalmer, every step is a journey through time, offering a glimpse into India’s rich heritage. Swiss flies daily to New Delhi with connecting flights to Jaipur, Jodpur and Udaipur.
Rajasthan, the realm of vibrant colors
Rajasthan unfolds in its cities like a colorful tapestry. In Jaipur, the Pink City, the walls blush a warm shade of pink – Rajasthan’s traditional color of hospitality. Further west, Jodhpur, the Blue City, rises from the desert in azure hues. South of it, the White City of Udaipur shines with ivory-colored palaces against the backdrop of Lake Pichola. Lastly, the journey takes you to the desert city of Jaisalmer, also known as the Golden City, where the sun bathes the sandstone buildings in rich ocher and makes the mighty Jaisalmer Fort shine.
Taj Mahal
Located on the banks of the Yamuna River, the architectural masterpiece Taj Mahal in Agra is a testament to eternal love and craftsmanship. It was built in the 17th century by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal. The architects were masters of proportion and optical illusion, which is especially evident in the changing color reflections of the white marble depending on the sunlight. Today, the mausoleum is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the Seven Wonders of the World.
Pushkar: Camel Fair and India from above
The Pushkar Camel Fair is a traditional Indian festival that will take place from November 20 to 28, 2023. The age-old tradition, which mixes culture and commerce, transforms the city into a lively carnival. Decorated camels, folkloric performances and lively markets immerse travelers even deeper into the vibrant life of Rajasthan. For those who prefer to watch the spectacle from afar, board a hot air balloon at dawn for a unique view of the market, desert landscape, Pushkar Lake and temples.
Food in Rajasthan
Rajasthan is known for its delicious vegetarian cuisine and boasts of iconic dishes like Dal Bati Churma – a lentil soup with baked wheat rolls and sweet wheat crumbles. Besides traditional dishes, Rajasthan’s culinary scene also offers modern gastronomy. In Jaipur, Bar Palladio charms with its sapphire blue decor and Italian-inspired cuisine. The Peacock Restaurant offers international cuisine and captivates with its panoramic views from the rooftop terrace.
Nights in Rajasthan
With views of the Taj Mahal in Agra, it’s especially nice to sleep at the Taj Hotel & Convention Centre, as well as the Tajview and The Oberoi Amarvilas. In Jodpur, the Umaid Bhawan Palace, once home to the royal family, offers Art Deco-style rooms and suites and views of the historic Blue City. In Udaipur, the majestic Taj Lake Palace beckons in the middle of Lake Pichola, while Jaipur is home to the Rambagh Palace – the best hotel in the world according to Tripadvisor. Near Jaipur and not far from Bhangarh, the luxurious Aman Resort welcomes Amanbagh.
Queensland
Queensland – from Brisbane to Cairns
Nestled in the sun-drenched expanses of Queensland, Australia, Brisbane and Cairns reflect the state’s diverse charms. The capital city of Brisbane boasts a lively mix of modernity and history, with elegant skyscrapers juxtaposed with historic sites. In contrast, Cairns turns out to be a tropical paradise on the northeast coast. It is the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef and attracts visitors with palm-lined waterfront promenades. With their unique character, both cities invite visitors to explore and promise unforgettable experiences against the breathtaking backdrop of Queensland. Swiss and Singapore Airlines fly via Singapore to Brisbane and Cairns. With Emirates you fly to Brisbane with a stopover in Dubai.
Nature and art in Brisbane
Culture lovers are in particularly good hands in Brisbane: From museums to a variety of buildings and parks, the city has it all. At the foot of Mount Coot-tha are the Brisbane Botanic Gardens – a lush oasis of native and exotic plant species. South of the Brisbane River is the Gallery of Modern Art (GOMA), with an impressive collection of indigenous art and masterpieces by artists such as Picasso. Then, the new pop-up restaurant«GOMA Farm-to-Table» serves local Queensland produce to hungry visitors to the gallery. A panoramic view from the Brisbane River to the city skyline is offered by the Wheel of Brisbane.
Musical entertainment in Brisbane
Music enthusiasts can look forward to all kinds of events in the vibrant heart of Brisbane’s cultural scene. Below the bustling streets, the Underground Opera House captivates visitors, combining vocal performances with the magic of hidden depths. In high-energy Fortitude Valley, there are an equal number of venues filled with rhythm and melody. From intimate jazz clubs to lively concert halls, Fortitude Valley’s musical offerings span a variety of genres with something for everyone. You’ll also find plenty of culinary options in the entertainment district: A visit to the Dan Arnold restaurant, which highlights local Australian produce, is definitely worthwhile.
Australia Zoo – Home of The Crocodile Hunter
Founded in 1970 as Beerwah Reptile Park, it pays homage to the legendary crocodile hunter Steve Irwin and is still committed to nature conservation. A wide variety of wildlife can be seen up close on the expansive grounds, which reflect the animals’ natural habitat: From kangaroos and koalas to Sumatran tigers and crocodiles. In addition, interactive experiences and shows invite visitors to immerse themselves in the wonders of the animal kingdom.
Cairns
Due to its proximity to the Great Barrier Reef and the Wet Tropics World Heritage Rainforest, Cairns is one of Australia’s most popular destinations, attracting tourists and locals alike. As a result, the city center has developed a bustling, albeit relaxed, atmosphere that invites visitors to explore the numerous cafes, bustling markets, and numerous beaches. In addition, there is a small but fine offer for those interested in art and culture, such as the Tank Art Museum, the Cairns Art Gallery and a wide selection of bars and clubs for the late evening hours. The highest Rooftop Bar & Restaurant in town «Rocco by Crystalbrook» offers a 270 degree view over the city.
Great Barrier Reef
Beneath the turquoise waters of the Coral Sea along Australia’s northeastern coast unfolds a natural wonder of unparalleled beauty and biodiversity: the Great Barrier Reef. It is the largest coral reef in the world, consisting of thousands of individual reefs and islands, where diverse ecosystems thrive in harmony. When snorkeling or diving, you can discover colorful fish and sea turtles in addition to corals in this underwater paradise. As one of the most famous marine areas in the world, the reef amazes with its magnificence and is called one of the seven wonders of nature.
Overnight
Located in Brisbane’s vibrant Fortitude Valley, The Calile Hotel is where luxury meets urbanity. Sleep just as well in Brisbane at the 5-star boutique Emporium Hotel in the lively South Bank district. In Noosa Heads, enjoy the coastal splendor best from the Sofitel Pacific Resort or the On the Beach Noosa Resort. On Fraser Island, the Kingfisher Bay Resort and the K’gari Beach Resort welcome you. In Cairns, the Pullman Reef Hotel and Casino with views of the sea, mountains and city, the timeless Hilton or the Shangri-La The Marina invite you to stay.
Paris
Paris – The City of Love and Light
As Audrey Hepburn said, Paris is always a good idea. The city of love and light captivates with timeless elegance and as an epicenter of art, fashion and French cuisine, draws everyone in. In addition to historic landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre Museum and Notre Dame, 20 arrondissements (city districts), each with its own individual character and charm, are waiting to be discovered by visitors. Whether for a week or a short trip, the most comfortable way to reach Paris is by TGV from Zurich in just 4 hours. On arrival or departure, be sure to allow time for a visit to Le Train Bleu, the iconic restaurant of the Gare de Lyon.
Paris Classics
If you’re visiting Paris for the first time, don’t miss the classics: From the Eiffel Tower, a symbol of innovation and romance with panoramic views of the city, to the Arc de Triomphe with the Eternal Flame, to Notre-Dame Cathedral, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture. It is under reconstruction since the fire in 2019, but can already be visited again. Also worth a visit is the hill of Montmartre in the north of Paris. Cobblestone streets lead to charming cafes and the Sacré-Cœur Basilica, perched atop the city’s highest natural elevation.
Strolling through the city
A stroll through Paris inspires curiosity and lets you feel and live the charm of the city. The tree-lined Champs-Élysées stretches for nearly two kilometers from the Place de la Concorde to the Arc de Triomphe. It captures the pulse of Parisian life and has everything from luxury boutiques to cafes to souvenirs of the past. Right next to it you’ll find the Pont Neuf, the oldest bridge preserved in its original state, which connects the first arrondissement to the sixth arrondissement across the Seine. Those exploring Paris on foot will also pass one or two of the more than 400 Art Nouveau buildings, including Galeries Lafayette, one of the oldest department stores in France.
Art Mecca Paris
Paris is a treasure trove for art lovers and boasts world-famous museums. The Louvre is located in the historic Louvre Palace, the former residence of the French kings, and houses a collection of ancient Greek and Roman artwork, Italian Renaissance painting, and Flemish and French paintings. Probably the most famous among them is the world-famous oil painting by Leonardo da Vinci: Mona Lisa. At the Musée d’Orsay, visitors are immersed in the world of Impressionism with brushstrokes by Monet, Van Gogh, Degas and Cézanne, while the Centre Pompidou presents 20th century art with its avant-garde design.
Fondation Louis Vuitton – Mark Rothko
In 2014, on the initiative of Bernard Arnault (Chairman LVMH), opened the Fondation Louis Vuitton, the now legendary private museum. Here, from October 18 to April 2, 2024, the first retrospective since 1999 dedicated to Mark Rothko will be presented. Some 115 works will be exhibited chronologically across all the rooms of the Fondation, tracing the artist’s entire career: Beginning with his figurative paintings and ending with the large-scale oil paintings of blurring monochrome color surfaces for which he is known today.
Paris+ par Art Basel
The Grand Palais Éphémère will host Paris+ par Art Basel from October 20-22, 2023 (Preview Days on October 18 and 19, 2023). 154 leading galleries from 34 countries and regions will showcase exciting solo, duo and group presentations by French and international artists, including paintings, sculptures, drawings, photographs and digital works. The Galeries Émergentes sector, for example, addresses contemporary issues such as changing perceptions of gender, ecology, and the increasing ubiquity of manipulated images.
French Culinary Arts
On the culinary front, Paris is a paradise for every palate. Trendy cafés beckon with their flavors and charm, offering a slice of Parisian café culture on every corner. For the patient croissant lovers, it’s worth waiting in line for a croissant from Cedric Grolet. For an unforgettable culinary experience with breathtaking views, try Le Jules Verne on the second floor of the Eiffel Tower, but make reservations six months in advance. Culinary excellence also awaits at Cheval Blanc, L’Ambroisie or L’Arpège, whose menus change with the seasons.
The elegance of Parisian hotels
After a tour of Paris, relaxation awaits at a selection of luxurious hotels. The legendary Hotel Ritz beckons with its «Grand Jardin»,while the Art Deco-style Four Seasons Hotel George V, just off the Champs-Élysées, promises relaxation in its 720 m2 spa. For those craving new experiences, Le Grand Mazarin Hotel opens its doors in September 2023 and welcomes guests in 61 rooms and suites. Lovers of opulent accommodations are well catered for at L’Hôtel – a boutique hotel in the heart of Saint Germain.
