July 6, 2009

The city of Bern in Switzerland is nestled in the crooked arm of the river Aare. It is Switzerland’s capital but not its largest city, and it is easily one of the most beautiful places that I have ever visited. The cobbled streets of the old town are lined with geranium laden windows, and covered arcades house shops with beautiful window displays. The people seem happy, the public transport is ruthlessly efficient, and in combination with just how gorgeous the streets are, Bern seems like a pretty great place to live.

The river Aare defines the old town of Bern, which was put there to take advantage of the naturally defendable position. The river itself is swift, voluminous and a bright, shimmering blue. At least, that’s how it usually is. After taking in the view of the river one morning I was astounded when I emerged onto a bridge from inside the city’s streets a few hours later and found it had completely changed colour, to a more Australian style dull brown. Rain upstream had transformed it in a startlingly short period of time. Bern continued unflustered – and remained as beautiful, lively, and impressive as ever.