I felt a little silly asking the question for the reasons you state.  But I decided I am going to Zurich and should see what the community might offer up.  

My trip to Delhi and Mumbai is also frustratingly short, but I'll have a bit more free time than in Zurich.  So I will put out a question on that trip tomorrow.

I'm thinking one of the cool things to do could be to set up an in person meeting on the road with one of the members of the AFAR community.  

How are you finding the experience on AFAR Connect?

My AFAR Connect experience has been an addicting, time consuming, enjoyable opportunity to trade tips and stories with my own kind!  I love it.  It's become my facebook.  

Ya know, if it's a question of that second beer or relaxing at the spa near the train station, I'd go with the spa. 

I like the Idea of connecting an AFAR community member with something in the magazine.  A multi-media approach can get peoples attention from different directions.  I like the connection of print and online, and the interaction it impels.  You might even think of a U-Tube connection.  

Also, are you guys thinking of another get-together like the one you had at your place?  I really enjoyed myself and have been waiting for notification of the next one.  I remember talking with you right at the start down in your garden, not knowing who I was really talking to!  I met a lot of really interesting people that night.

So, back to the present.  Have a good trip and remember; quality not quantity.

Now that is something I would never have expected nor thought of.  Do you remember which spa?

Greg,

I will see if I can remember/find which spa it was. It was a few years ago so may have changed since then....  HOWEVER, it may be a moot point, as there is a spa right at the Zurich airport with saunas and Turkish steam baths, massages, etc.!  (Makes me wish I was going to Zurich, too!)    http://www.airport-fitness.ch/ENG/arra.htm 

Let me know if you do visit the airport spa and how it is. Enjoy!

Thanks Le.  I have more time than a "stay at the airport" layover, so will get into the city and likely won't end up with enough time to hit the spa.  Unless I get an unexpected flight delay.  But does seem ideal for a layover!

That would be great Lisa. 

Maybe your friend wants to answer on AFAR Connect?  It's a little clumsy to ask her - since she needs to register and all, but...

Below is the answer from my friend. I have sent her the link to sign up for AFAR Connect and I am sure she will do so. She is very well traveled. She's been all over the world. Speaks five languages and is well connected. She will be a great person to have spread the word about AFAR Connect. In general, I have been "marketing" the site to my friends. It's going to do very well!

From Anya:

At the moment a stroll along Bahnhofstrasse is definitely beautiful, as there is a new Christmas decoration there.

 Buying Chocolate or so-called "Luxenburgerli" at the Bakery "SPRüNGLI" at Paradeplatz is compulsory.

 And walking through NIEDERDORF, which is where his Hotel is, is nice as well. Shops are smaller and it's not all fill of brands he probably already knows.

 The view from the terace of the University building is gorgeous.

 The Bar he mentions "WIDDER" is trendy Zurich...so he is in good hands.

 If he's lost or wants a contact, you can easily give him my address.

anyahaenni@yahoo.com

Feel free to contact her if you'd like. She and her husband are a great resource!

Have a wonderful trip!

Wow.  Some great ideas!  I will write Anya to thank her.

Nathan,

Good to hear from you!  It has been a while.  This is indeed an interesting story.  I will check the park out while I'm there.  Might be a bit chilly!

It'll be a bit cold probably, but only to someone living in SF. Anyway, it's not the best looking of parks, but it's just cool when you put it into context. I'd also echo the comment about the view from the University. It's a pretty short little hike up the hill to it, so I'd definitely try and check that out too.

I agree the story is really interesting.  (and yes I'm probably wimpier than you hearty Chicagoans!