Having never been there before, it presented an easy opportunity to tick off a challenge. As I departed the station it didn't feel like I was really embarking upon an adventure to achieve something different, something new. It was work after all.
One of the best things about taking the train from Geneva is that it affords you the most stunning views of the lake, given the tracks are perched just high enough to allow sight above the lakeside homes, but still close enough that the blue of the water really fills the vista. Then, to Freiburg, you turn left and start to travel North and upwards, with hills, and Green rolling pastures. It truly is a relaxing way to travel.
Punctual arrival, naturally, and proceeded to call my colleague who would be collecting me from the station.
"Meet me at the McDonalds, I'm parked outside" he barked.
Looking around, all I could see was a Burger King. Hmmm
"Excusez-moi monsieur, savez-vous où se trouve le McDonalds?" I asked the station guard. He proceeded to tell me that yes, there was a McDo, but quite some way away.
"Drop me a pin" suggested my colleague - which I proceeded to do.
"Err, you are in Freiburg Switzerland Andrew?!"
"Yes, as agreed" I replied
"The meeting is in Freiburg Germany"
So, red cheeked, even though I had shared my travel details well in advance, and they were (clearly hurriedly) approved, I was at liberty.
Checking the return train times carefully gave me just over an hour to explore the small city. It was just enough to make me want to return with the girls. Steep cobbled streets, large outdoor food market, quaint shops. I just forgot to take any photos, except the attached - the coffee shop I sat in - a South American owned place serving churros in Summer, I was promised. Another reason to return.
Curious to see how the next challenges shape up. Maybe I will be shaken out of my complacency this year, after all.
That would be a nighmare for me! Congratulations Andrew.
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