Friday, June 19, 2009

Last full day in Zurich

And today it decided to rain!

Went out to Winterthur this morning, a town about twenty minutes from Zurich in the S-Bahn. As well as having numerous museums and some top-notch shopping, it also hosts a food market that I was able to check out this morning.



When I got back to the city itself, it had started to rain but armed with my umbrella I wandered down Limmatquai. All along this stretch, you'll find numerous shops, as well as cafes galore. Stopped for lunch in Cafe Odeon and tried out their in-house take on rosti, which you can see here.



Also strolled along Bahnhofstrasse which was still busy despite the weather, as you can see.

Heading back to Dublin tomorrow but before I go I'll have time to visit a couple of the city's Saturday markets!

Rebecca
Hostelworld.com

Thursday, June 18, 2009

Zurich - Day three



Spent another day wandering around the city today, and I've seen some really cool things. From the view of Zurich from the top of the Polybahn funicular service to the Platz Promenade, a park area behind the fascinating Landesmuseum. Check out the park as seen in the picture here.



I also took the time to check out some of Zurich's shopping opportunities, including the unusual Freitag shop which is housed in 17 stacked and converted freight containers. Sihlcity, the large shopping complex pictured here, was another stop for me today.

Tomorrow I'm going to take a trip towards the Uetilberg. It's the highest point so close to the city centre and the views should prove stunning!

Rebecca
Hostelworld.com

Wednesday, June 17, 2009

Another gorgeous day in Zurich!



Visited a lot of attractions around the city on this very sunny day in Zurich. One of my favourites was the Chinese Garden. A really pretty place to wander around, as you can see from the picture here!

For lunch I went for a local favourite, and had some bratwurst from one of the many kiosks to be found along both sides of the Limmat River. Definitely filled me up for more sightseeing.



I also went for a really nice walk all along the quays leading from Bellevue, along Utoquai, and Seefeldquai, finally reaching the Zurichhorn Park. From here you can see Lake Zurich and the surrounding areas, as well as snow-covered mountains in the distance. Along the way, I got to see a lot of swans, including these two guys pictured.

Loving Zurich so far, I have to say. If you’re interested in heading here and you’re looking for somewhere to stay, check out the range of properties Hostelworld deals with here.

Going back out soon to find some dinner, and possibly a drink or two, and then once it’s dark I’ll try and take some night shots.

Rebecca
Hostelworld.com

Tuesday, June 16, 2009

Hello from beautiful Zurich!



Landed in Zurich earlier today to collect information for a new Hostelworld pdf guide. (You can check out our other guides here.) I'm staying at the Hotel Coronado. As you can see from the picture, I have a pretty sweet set-up here! Just across the road from a tram stop too, which is great. Got me into the city in no time earlier on, and is a really easy system to get the hang of too.



Had a wander along Bahnhofstrasse, which seems to be the main shopping drag. Tonnes of people around and the shops were pretty busy. My favourite thing about this street isn't all the designer gear though, it's the really cool flowerpots! All along the street, you'll see these giant flowerpots covered in different, funky designs. Check out this one covered with lizards!

Dinner was a potato and vegetable gratin at a restaurant called Au Gratin at Bahnhofplatz. Really delicious, plus there's a bar downstairs so I stopped off for a drink there too.

Great first day in Zurich and I'm looking forward to seeing what tomorrow will bring!

Rebecca
Hostelworld.com

Thursday, June 4, 2009

Porto - The City of Bridges

Arrived in Portugal's second city yesterday and hopped in a cab at the airport for the short trip to Porto's city centre.

I'm staying at The Yellow House, which is one of Porto's newest hostels. Have a look at the spotless dorm, complete with balcony! Also, the owners gave me some info on top-notch restaurants and bars. Going to check a couple out tonight.

Went on a boat trip down the Douro River yesterday afternoon. It was really enjoyable and a great way to see Porto's six famous bridges. I'm here in Porto to collect information on bars, restaurants and attractions for our 57th free pocket guide. You can check out the other 56 here.

Now I think it's time for me to hit the shops. Santa Catarina, here I come!

Rebecca
Hostelworld.com