Hi:
Just back from the first Best of Switzerland trip and it was fantastic.
Weather: Unfortunately, as usual when traveling in the spring, we hit rain. But also several days in the 70s. Very clear in Engleberg but cloudy and limited visibility in Murren and Zermatt. The Matterhorn was hiding. The days of the lake cruises were clear and beautiful. But over all it was good. I just can't describe the beauty of this country.
Hotels: All were wonderful. I was traveling on a single supplement and, aside from one hotel, all the rooms had great views, comfortable beds and the hotels good breakfasts. I think my favorite was the hotel in Lausanne . However, that hotel had a glass wall in the bathroom. Mine was frosted so you could not see into the bathroom, but others were not. Also the last hotel had a glass door to the bathroom. Hmm. Those Swiss, who said they are conservative!!!! Oh yes all had elevators.
Bus: We had a very nice bus, but unlike other tours the bus did not stay with the tour the whole time. Because distances are so short, the driver went home some days. So no deep storage. This is a good thing for me as it kept me from buying to much. Also so did the costs (more on that later.) You will probably also really like the day when the bus is driven on the train and then goes through a tunnel. It was way cool and very interesting. Lots of narrow winding roads and stunning views.
Tour Guide: We had two guides the first week, Donald and Fabian. Fabian left to join the second tour mid tour. Donald was excellent. He was up on everything and kept us all in line. Sort of like herding cats!!! Great group too. With one exception, all the local tour guides were excellent. Lots of jokes and laughter.
Snafus: We only had one that we knew of. Everything went smoothly and if any thing went wrong we did not know about it.
Costs: Be advised, Switzerland is EXPENSIVE!!! A regular lunch for one person can run upwards of 25 franks. However, there are several grocery stores, COOP, Manor and Migros, that sell ready to eat sandwiches and salads. Manor actually has a cafeteria with some of the best foods I ate. None of the hotels had issues with eating in the room. Laundry is expensive. Hotels charge by the garment not the load.
Recommended foods: Gelato, cheese, chocolate, fondue and raclette. I also had some of the best bread I have had in a long time. Also if you are a coffee drinker, don't expect to get "American" coffee. The coffee is in small cups and is strong. Absolutely lovey.
Overall Comment: I loved this tour. If you are signed up for this though, be prepared to walk on all types of surfaces from concrete to cobblestones .Lots of uphill walks and stairs. You will take cable cars, trains, metros, buses and boats, and you will have a great time!!!