I learned to hike confidently, enjoy cheese even more, appreciate a good bed, and be flexible in my peeing abilities. I learned that I like French and that German is strange. I learned that English (as spoken by an American) is a bit ugly sounding. I learned that I like knowing the customs of the area I am visiting so that I do not feel stupid in how I order a drink. I learned to drink lagers and actual enjoy them. I learned that meals can take longer and that is ok. I learned more about trains and how it is nice to pack light. I learned that I still like my husband. I learned that watching Swiss TV is boring, even with watching the Simpsons in German.
In terms of fashion, I did observe some interesting things:
1. Men seem to have more flexibility in style - especially in terms of pants. Men typically wore shorter shorts or else capris. Many pants were of citrus colors such as red, salmon, orange and yellow. I also saw pants that were of brighter patterns that only grandmas should wear.
2. Some women were wearing harem-type pants that either went to the ankles or stopped at their knees. These are "genie" pants that are tapered so that they balloon out a bit at the end. Usually in black or gray colors, but I did see patterned ones as well. I really liked the look and I would love to find a pair of them, however, I am uncertain how they would translate to everyday pants. They seem like vacation pants.
3. I was a bit fascinated by the Japanese and Korean tourists. They were typically in larger groups with a tour guide (probably to help with language) and generally, no skin was showing. Hats, long pants, short-sleeved shirts, arm sleeves, gloves, scarves. Interesting colors and patterns, bright and chirpy like birds.
4. Switzerland did not have topless beaches so some of us were disappointed.
