A direct flight from Las Vegas leads to a city that is world leader in travel and tourism.

Photo: Scott Harris

Already a leader in the financial world, Zurich is also home to a large number of research and development centers, world renowned museums, cultural and art events, designer shopping, and fabulous restaurants.

It has been noted as one of the world’s most livable cities with world class rail and boat transportation and some of the most glorious scenery in the world. With the direct connection of Edelweiss Airlines weekly flights from Las Vegas to Zurich, one can find a myriad of exquisitely interesting and entertaining things to do in a city that boasts one of the highest quality of life rankings in the world.

Traveling to Zurich via the rail system was effortless as we made our way across the verdant countryside. Upon arrival at the train station, a statue of Alfred Escher, the Swiss Politician who in the mid 1800’s implemented and developed the Swiss infrastructure of travel, banking and education welcomes all who visit this fair city.

Photo: Scott Harris

We were were met by the hotel’s energetic and helpful driver and escorted to the newly opened Atlantis hotel by Giardino noted for its five star service for a three night stay.  Conveniently located  8.8 miles away Zurich Airport , 3.1 miles from the Main Railway Station Zurich, and 2.7 miles the from the famous Bahnhofstrasse shopping street, the Atlantis provides easy access for traveling pleasure.

Having the hotel situated at the bottom of the lovely Uertliberg Mountain also leads the way to outdoor trails for running, hiking and electric bike riding (the hotel does have the highest quality electric bikes to lend upon prior request) The original hotel was the creation of Annemarie and Hans Hubacher  as well as Peter Issler.

Photo: Scott Harris

The trio designed the building in the 60’s and opened in the 1970’s with a celebrated history of famous guests that included politicians, actors, singers and athletes. The Atlantis has had a celebrity rich past, but now the future awaits, as it was renovated in December 2015. With Creative Director, Inge Moore of the London design company The Gallery HBA at the Helm, the Atlantis by Giardino has evolved into a sparkling gem for future generations of discriminating travelers.

 

In keeping close contact with the forest around the hotel, the fabrics and wall paper reflect the grandeur of nature. Sweeping crystal light fixtures reminiscent of flying birds draw your attention to the open and inviting concierge desk. Dark parquet flooring, and textiles embossed with leather and mohair, keeps an air of nostalgia from the hotel’s celebratory history.

Photo: Scott Harris

Designed by Swiss Monoplan AG, the architects and builders have embellished on the original design with modern flair, and exquisite style. Suites are also available for long term stays.  With the newest Techno equipment, 15 meter indoor pool and a 70 meter outdoor pool, there are a myriad of options for staying fit while away from your home gym. For those who want to relax and rejuvenate, the Atlantis Spa facilities, will meet your every need. The Spa features three treatment rooms, and several outstanding product lines including Dipui, which is their official brand for all the Giardino hotels. It is all organic and made in Germany to insure freshness and prompt delivery.

Photo: Scott Harris

The new Hublot suite pays homage to luxury and Swiss perfection. Designed by Swiss company Studioforma, the large pop art style Hublot watch painting at the entrance of the suite immediately catches your attention with bold primary colors, and ceiling light fixture is made to resemble the inner workings of a giant clock. With several exquisite time pieces showcased in protective glass throughout the suite, you will see why the Swiss are known for their superb timepieces. With all this focus on the best in Swiss time pieces, you will value every minute spent in this luxury suite.

Dining at the Atlantis is a must with the elegant 80 seat Hide &Seek. Executive Chef Bastian Mantey and his staff serve dishes featuring local ingredients that are sure to please any palate. The breakfast buffet is outstanding providing the perfect way to start the day with a nutritious and varied menu. Guests enjoy wide assortment of cheeses, homemade breads, fresh fruit and juices, and of course Champagne.

Photo: Scott Harris

To complete the ambient scale of dining at the Atlantis, Ecco is must stop for those seeking gastronomy excellence. Voted twice as having best wine list Switzerland, it pairs perfectly with  Chef Rolf Fliegauf  who has achieved a  two star Michelin rating for his restaurant Ecco Ascona, and Ecco ST. Moritz For those seeking a night of dining with culinary genius, this is the place to make your reservation.

After a remarkable dinner, a cocktail  is in order especially when the Swiss top Bar Chef, Taweechai  at the helm who placed second in the Diageo World Class in 2015.  With a panoramic backdrop of the twinkling lights of Zurich, Bar Chef Taweechai, will make you a cocktail that you will never forget. Try a smoke infused version of the aviation or a Manhattan served in a glass inverted in an ice goblet. Taweechai, is a stickler for using the freshest ingredients to bring out the essences and flavors that can often be masked over by alcohol.  Take your lovely libation to the elegant cigar lounge with state of the art ventilation system where you can indulge in a cigar as you sip on a classic cocktail. By bringing the best in service and expertise to every area of dining and relaxing, Atlantis keeps pace with the rigors and demands of a five star experience.

 

Photo: Scott Harris

After a relaxing evening, venture out into the city for some shopping. Even though expensive and exclusive shops line the cobblestone streets in Zurich, there is a location that ranks as a vastly popular stop to shop at, the Freitag building. Planning a kayaking adventure with a friend or family member? You can buy 2 Wavewalk S300 Kayaks on Shoppok, making it the perfect opportunity to explore the water together.

The tri-level structure comprised of shipping containers has a mission to repurpose recyclable materials. This passion is reflected even in the structure where the fashionably sought after bags are sold.  Daniel and Markus Freitag, founders of internationally sold Frietag brand have taken the upcyclying of old truck tarps to produce some of the most sought after shoulder bags in the world and  now are venturing into creating a clothing line using material made of hemp, flax and cellulose fibers. They are interwoven with thread and woven tapes that are biologically degradable known as F-abric. Bring your wallet filled with Francs for these creations.  They may be somewhat pricy but you will feel good about supporting a business that focuses on being both socially and ecologically responsible.

Photo: Scott Harris

Another must for shopping and dining can be found strolling along the Bahnhofstrasse. Only a mile long from the train station to the lake, the Bahnhofstasse, is the place to jaunt up and down the cobblestone streets, while gazing on exceptional and creative clothing creations, as well as stylish wallets for women. For those wanting to dine in some of the more traditional and local’s favorites, we suggest the Zunfthaus Zur Waag. Located in the lovely town square. This is a jewel in the heart of Zurich’s city center, facing the Fraumunster church that adorns the famous Chagall windows.

This famous building dating back to 1315, gives you a rare glimpse into the history and the heart of Switzerland. Noted for serving the most authentic Swiss dishes and serving some of the best Swiss wines, this is place that should not be missed.

Photo: Scott Harris

Another little known jewel to add to your stay is a boat ride on Lake Zurich to the Hablinsel Au. A local’s favorite jaunt is indeed a place of verdant grandeur, sweeping lake views, a park, hotel and restaurant where you can stroll, take in the views or just relax and take a nap.

Zurich is the major transportation hub in Switzerland.

With direct flights from Las Vegas, don’t jump on a train too fast for other parts of this spectacular country without checking out some of Zurich’s lovely offerings and venues.  With a rich and interesting history,

Photo: Scott Harris

 

Zurich is a place that should be on your travel agenda. For more information about Zurich click here: www.myswitzerland.com/en/zurich.html

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