The capital of this tiny mountainous country is a delightful, clean and orderly city with a population of around 400,000. The streets are wide and spotless, most with covered walkways to make life easier for pedestrians in what must be a very cold winter.

Perched on the hill and almost surrounded by the horseshoe River Aare, the city boasts a number of quite unique (as opposed to very unique) attractions. The city faunal emblem is the bear, and they can be seen along the river side untethered and uncaged. The river is a deep gorge and in summer is the main past-time for the locals with numerous swimming areas. In the centre of town the main transport hub dominates with the most orderly bus terminal, subterranean rail station, and tram terminal all in one easy to navigate area. A strange astrological clock tower just to the east of the transport hub is quite a feature. (See pics under Suisse tab).

Public transport in this obviously wealthy city seems excessive for the size of the population. Buses run at intervals of minutes to every part of town, and an extensive tram system using the latest technology glides through town constantly… with about 20 passengers during peak hour.

The banks are well represented, along with art houses, government buildings, designer boutiques, cafes, and a bohemian quarter that is so orderly it defies the term bohemian.

Bern is the best launching place for the Alps with regional trains servicing the surrounding towns via a network of tunnels.

It is however… expensive. And in this German speaking town, be careful when you compliment the chef after dinner…

“How was your meal sir?”
“Tres bien”
“Yes sir, right away” (calls out something to the barman)

Watching closely it became apparent that we had just ordered three beers.

Is my French that bad?