two days ago we left the glamour and hedonism of amsterdam for zurich on a night train. despite our 3rd class accomadation the night train was still very comfortable with a small bunk and reading light for each passenger.
going from amsterdam to zurich was truly a culture shock. zurich has the same statuesque people, the same canals and the same bike lanes as amsterdam but that is where the similarities end. being in zurich is like being inside a giant bankers paradise. people are efficient and courteous but not friendly. the streets are lined with atms to fill ypur wallet and boutiques to empty them. a chicken sandwhich at mcdonalds is 13 usd.
the big draw of zurich is a lake filled by the ice melt from the mountains above it. it is clear and green and cold. along the shore people sprawl in the grass as flocks of various water birds lightly harrass the for snacks.
tonight we are off to rome on another night train.
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The water birds are very pushy swans, ducks, cranes and a number of death ducks who mostly seem to be put in their place by the swans.
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