I've extensively read the helpline and am looking for your take on dates. We (self, 63; hubby,67; son,40; daughter in law, 31; son,26) will have 16 days in end June to early July 2014 to explore Paris and the BO region of Switzerland. We are interested in culture, cafes, great food, bits of museums, people watching, nature, mountain biking, hiking, getting lost.....and feel these areas which are within a 6 hour train ride meet all those requirements. We have a period of time between June 23 and July 18 to make this happen. Herein lies the dilemma: City first and countryside second or vice versa? We will be flying from Atlanta and could get into CDG or ZRH open jaw either way for about the same price. Have been "told" the Alps are best for hiking in mid July so was thinking well for sure Paris first maybe last week of June. Then investigating the superior service out of Zurich and trains with check your bag through to destination alleviating the hassle of bags during station changes. That just appeals to my American sensibility where service no longer exists. Have you done this itinerary? Did you find the unwinding in the mountains after the hectic city to be the best decision? Or did convenience trump and you had a great time ending your journey in Paris? Trivial question for some but a condundrum for us.
Posted by
Boston
4132 posts
This sounds like a great trip either way. You have the right idea with open jaw. You just need to decide what appeals to you best. Question: Might "superior service" run both ways, i.e. to Zurich airport as well as from? Worth checking on that if that is going to be the deciding factor for you.
Posted by
New York, NY, 10025
392 posts
I loved Paris, but I needed a break from it during my trip there. I'd put it first if I were you. And having used both airports, I'd say arriving at CDG and leaving from Zurich is better, but then I had a nightmare scenario when I left CDG that is unlikely to be repeated if you do (long story involving a canceled flight that day before and a passenger sit-in).
Posted by
San Francisco/Marin County
9436 posts
I love Paris, never need a break and can never get enough... I would do Paris first because you will have the most energy at the beginning of your trip. You'll be excited and geared up and ready to go at the start and you'll have a wonderful time seeing and doing as much as your time there will allow... then, you can slow down and enjoy Wengen and all that beautiful, wonderful area has to offer. For me, I'd rather do the relaxing part of the trip at the end, just before going home.. There is no right or wrong way, and either way you'll have a great trip and a great time... ;)