Bern, Switzerland is something else in the snow. Snow-capped mountains; check. Dreamy peaked-roof cottage architecture; check. Super-friendly townsfolk who go out of their way to help you get a taxi when the clock's against you ; check.
I thought I'd seen all Earth had to offer in terms of snowy countryside, but Bern took my breath away (I say that, but Scotland will undoubtedly always hold my heart).
The people are phenomenally friendly. I was used to this once upon a time when I lived in the rural Scotland highlands of Aberdeenshire. People are gloriously friendly in Scotland, especially the North - but sadly, I guess I've been desensitised during my time living in London these last 2 years.
I couldn't believe my luck when our tiny aircraft (I'm using the word aircraft instead of plane as it resembled more the model aero planes children play with, rather that a piece of honed aeronautical engineering), carrying only the two, yes TWO of us passengers, landed at Bern airport.
It could not have been more idyllic if it tried. The snow capped mountains all around, the fluffy heavy snows flakes falling almost in slow motion, the ready smile of the locals. (The airport staff were almost certainly local).
The only hiccup in the picture was in my requirement for a taxi to take me to my work appointment. I'm directed to a taxi "rank". My experience of these consist largely of at least 5 taxis ready and waiting to deliver you to your chosen destination.
This "rank", however, consisted of "a" taxi. Driverless. Empty. Mocking almost.
No public transport options, no taxi.
I couldn't really believe my luck when a lady walking across the street to the airport entrance came to my rescue and advised they KNEW the taxi driver (singular), and would give him a buzz. They "knew" "him". I didn't really have the time to ponder or be perplexed as to how adorable random local lady just "knew" the one available taxi driver, and offered to bring her own day's journey to a halt to call him on my behalf.
Next thing I know, poor taxi driver man, was hurriedly approaching me from the "airport restaurant" (again singular), across the road to ensure his role as trusty steed.
Wow. Swiss friendliness is only matched by their taxi-fees. Be warned.
