Tuesday, February 20, 2024

🇨🇭Glacier Express vs. GoldenPass: Swiss Train Showdown

ABBEY: Switzerland is known for their trains and we didn’t pass the opportunity to board two of their famous trains; GoldenPass Express and Glacier Express. 

Both of the trains showcase a great experience. We were amazed by the snowy winter landscape on the trains’ panoramic windows. Our food was booked and served at the Glacier Express and I can say that nothing fancy about that; it was so-so. However there is a difference in service. 

GoldenPass Express took forever to take our order (we are almost at our destination) but for Glacier Express it was swift and we enjoyed our coffee along with the magnificent views. The Glacier Express also chimes to notify the passengers to put on their headphones and listen to information about their current location.

There are other trains that go almost or part of same route as these panoramic trains but we want to have the experience given by these luxury trains. The trip in itself is magical.


Glacier vs. GoldenPass Swiss Train Showdown - Comparison
Glacier vs. GoldenPass Swiss Train Comparison

GoldenPass Swiss Panoramic Train Video

Glacier Express Swiss Panoramic Train Video


WILL: Did you know that Switzerland boasts not just one, but five premium panoramic trains, each claiming the title of the world’s most beautiful rail route? If you're planning a trip to this picturesque country, riding one of these trains is an absolute must-do. While time constraints and logistics may limit your choices, we've experienced two of these breathtaking journeys: the GoldenPass Express and the Glacier Express.

GoldenPass Express: December Reservation (CHF: 20.00/pax)

You might have caught glimpses of Switzerland's stunning landscapes in Roger Federer and Trevor Noah's Train Adventure video—that's the GoldenPass Route. What stands out for us? The sheer thrill of traversing cliffs while ascending mountains is unmatched. The engineering precision on display is awe-inspiring; you won't find a dull moment on this ride!


However, it's worth noting that the first-class train can feel a bit cramped, with limited space for luggage. Service can also be slow, which led Abbey to opt out of ordering food altogether. Considering the price per person, the level of comfort and service doesn't quite match expectations.


Glacier Express - December Reservation (CHF: 49.00/pax)

Known as the world's slowest express train, our journey from Zermatt to Chur aboard the Glacier Express was nothing short of spectacular. Picture-perfect scenes of snow-covered valleys unfold before your eyes (don't forget your sunglasses!). Witness locals embracing the winter wonderland with sledges and skis—it's a sight to behold.


With at least three stewards onboard, the service on the Glacier Express is exemplary. They attend to passengers' needs promptly and ensure a comfortable journey throughout. Each seat even comes equipped with earphones, allowing you to delve into the history and must-know facts about various points of interest along the route.


While the onboard food offerings may not be extravagant, the option to bring your own snacks, like chips and wine, adds a personal touch to the journey.


In conclusion, faced with the choice between the GoldenPass and Glacier Express, our vote goes to the Glacier Express without hesitation!


A quick reminder: The reservation fee is separate from the train fare, so be prepared to pay for both when booking your journey.



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GoldenPass Express

(W) https://www.myswitzerland.com/en-sg/experiences/goldenpass-express/



Glacier Express

(W) https://www.glacierexpress.ch/en/





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Accommodation Excellence

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KKDAY: Not Just for Attractions. KKDAY offers excellent options for accommodations. Explore and book with confidence.


Oh, and speaking of dreams, let's talk OOTD (Outfit of the Day) goals. Head over to Zalora for some jaw-dropping fashion finds. Click [here] to explore and snag those Instagram-worthy outfits for your trip. A fashionable adventure awaits!







Thursday, February 15, 2024

🇮🇹 Savings on Italy’s Finest: Tourists Must-Buy Brands

Italy! Oh Italy! The allure of its history, art, food, coffee, and fashion beckons! While our primary mission is to immerse ourselves in the streets of Rome, we've embarked on a secondary quest: to replace our 16-year-old passport holder, upgrade from 4-year-old wallet, and bring back a bag of exquisite coffee beans!

But why shop in Italy, you may wonder? The answer lies in the remarkable savings we've discovered. Leather goods and coffee beans here are significantly more affordable compared to purchasing them back home in Singapore.


Savings on Italy’s Finest: Tourists Must-Buy Brands
Savings on Italy’s Finest: Tourists Must-Buy Brands 


Here's our haul and why you should consider it too:

1. Bialetti Classico Coffee Beans

Bialetti, renowned for its ownership of the patent for the Moka Pot, offers a tantalizing depth of flavor in its Esperto Grani Classico beans! At just €16.60, we saved almost $S10 compared to Singapore prices.


2. Prada’s Portafoglio in Saffiano Wallet

Did you know Prada stands as one of the oldest luxury leather brands globally, with a legacy dating back to 1913? This elegant wallet, priced at €590 (excluding tax refund), resulted in total savings of SGD317.25. A splurge well worth it, wouldn’t you agree?


3. Ophidia and GG with Interlocking G Passport Case by Gucci

Hunting for passport cases proved to be a challenge in Italy. Despite many stores being sold out or lacking in appealing designs, our perseverance paid off at the last stop, Gucci. We stumbled upon the newly arrived Ophidia and GG with Interlocking G passport holder, a coveted item perfect for holiday gifting! Our savvy find resulted in savings of SGD 350.08.


Italy promises a shopping experience steeped in rich history, unparalleled product expertise, and exceptional customer service. Now, the only question that remains is: What's on your must-buy list when you visit Italy?




***

Bialleti

(W) https://www.bialetti.com/i

(A) Via Dei Coronari, 215 Roma, Italy
(T) 0694539785 

Prada Roma Uomo

(W) https://www.prada.com

(H) 10am to 7:30pm

(A) Via dei Condotti, 88/90, Roma Italy

(T) +39 066790897


Roma Flagship | GUCCI® Store

(W) https://www.gucci.com/ca/en/store/via-condotti-8

(A) Via dei Condotti 8 Rome, 00187, Italy

(T) +39066790405






CHECK THIS OUT! 
Accommodation Excellence

Expedia Booking.com, Hostelworld: Your one-stop-shop for hotel and hostel bookings. Find your perfect home away from home with Expedia's extensive listings.


KKDAY: Not Just for Attractions. KKDAY offers excellent options for accommodations. Explore and book with confidence.


Oh, and speaking of dreams, let's talk OOTD (Outfit of the Day) goals. Head over to Zalora for some jaw-dropping fashion finds. Click [here] to explore and snag those Instagram-worthy outfits for your trip. A fashionable adventure awaits!


Tuesday, February 13, 2024

🇨🇭Switzerland's Finest Chocolate Museums, Wines and Timepiece Boutiques

Switzerland is renowned for its exquisite chocolate, delightful wines, and precision timepieces. Your visit to Switzerland would be incomplete without indulging in these quintessential experiences.

🇨🇭Switzerland's Finest Chocolate Museums, Wines and Timepiece Boutiques
🇨🇭Switzerland's Finest Chocolate Museums, Wines and Timepiece Boutiques

1. Wine IndulgenceFirstly, let us apologize for not taking photos of our wines. We were simply mesmerized by the affordability (compared to Singapore) and the irresistible taste of every sip! Absolutely delightful! We highly recommend purchasing Famille Naef Chasselas Château de Mont-sur-Rolle wine.

2. Tissot Timepieces: My husband's long-awaited quest for his first timepiece finally came to fruition. After months of searching, we discovered the perfect automatic watch for him (and maybe a little for me, too) – the Tissot Visodate. You might wonder, couldn't we find a similar model in Singapore? Well, the brown leather band option wasn't available online or in physical stores in Singapore, and we we

3. Chocolate Exploration: For us, understanding the craftsmanship behind the products enhances the experience. Thus, we embarked on a chocolate factory tour in Switzerland:

  • Lindt: This well-advertised chocolate factory and museum provided insights into chocolate production, and their chocolate squares were a must-buy.
  • Cailler: Nestle's Cailler museum offered a fascinating journey through the history of chocolate, and the taste exceeded our expectations.
  • Läderach: This was an instant favorite! Their chocolates were divine, and the factory prices were a steal. We couldn't resist buying a kilogram!

So there you have it! Switzerland offers an array of indulgences to enhance your vacation experience. Don't hesitate to treat yourself while exploring this beautiful country!



🇨🇭Switzerland's Finest Chocolate Museums: Läderach and Lindt




🇨🇭Switzerland's Finest Chocolate Museum: Cailler Maison



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Coop Supermarkt Luzern Bahnhof
(W) https://www.coop.ch/en/locations/coop-supermarkt-luzern-bahnhof/3705_POS
(H) 6AM to 10PM
(A) Bahnhof SBB 6003 Luzern Switzerland

Tissot Boutique Zermatt
(W) https://store.tissotwatches.com/
(H) 10AM to 6:30PM
(A) Bahnhofstrasse 2 3920 Zermatt

Lindt Home of Chocolate 
(W) https://www.lindt-home-of-chocolate.com/en/
(H) 10AM to 7PM
(A) Schokoladenplatz 1 8802 Kilchberg Switzerland

Cailler Maison
(W) https://cailler.ch/en/price#useful_information
(H) 10AM to 5PM
(A) Chocolaterie Suisse Rue Jules Bellet 7 1636 Broc

House of Läderach
(W) https://houseofladerach.com
(H) 9AM to 6PM
(A) Grabenstrasse 6, CH-8865 Bilten




CHECK THIS OUT! 
Accommodation Excellence

Expedia Booking.com, Hostelworld: Your one-stop-shop for hotel and hostel bookings. Find your perfect home away from home with Expedia's extensive listings.


KKDAY: Not Just for Attractions. KKDAY offers excellent options for accommodations. Explore and book with confidence.


Oh, and speaking of dreams, let's talk OOTD (Outfit of the Day) goals. Head over to Zalora for some jaw-dropping fashion finds. Click [here] to explore and snag those Instagram-worthy outfits for your trip. A fashionable adventure awaits!