I need to visit Basel in a couple of weeks so I picked up Steve's guide. Though it's a major city with 40 museums, there is no mention of the city - even in the index. Anyone have any idea why?
"Though it's a major city with 40 museums, there is no mention of the city - even in the index. Anyone have any idea why?" He leaves out a lot in every country, and some of his picks seem random. I find it odd that he completely omits Basel, seeing that a lot of people from the US visit there on business trips and are going to be there anyway. Who knows why Basel missed the cut? I had driven by Basel many times and was never impressed by what I saw from the road. But a few months ago, I finally spent the night, and was quite surprised. It's not Paris, but it definitely has an understated charm.
No idea why Rick skips Basel, but Richard Bangs ("Adventure with Purpose") does a pretty good travel show on Basel, going back to its Roman roots as a crossroads: http://www.smarttravels.tv/AdventuresWithPurpose/site/shows_basel-lucerne.html He makes the museums, especially the kinetic sculpture museum, sound well worth a visit.
I had the good fortune to spend a few pre-cruise days in Basel last November. I found the city to be lovely. I happened to be there during the Autumn Fest which added to my enjoyment of the city. If you are interested in art at all the museums are wonderful. I was especially interested in visiting the Jean Tinguely museum..the kinetic museum..since the small Indiana town I live in has one of his sculptures! You will find his whimsical sculptures in various places throughout the city. Also, the Munster is a 'must see". If you are staying in a hotel you will receive a free mobility pass which entitles you to free transport on all trams and buses too. Check out http://www.basel.com/en for more info. Enjoy Basel!
Thanks so much for the advice and links.