Some of you may know that I subscribe to an email list that sends great deals on business class international flights. I play the “credit card points game” to keep travel expenses down while maximizing comfort. (I’m a bit of a nervous flyer, so if I’m going to be anxious, I might as well do it in comfort.) An email about a flight to Paris from Vancouver came through, and I jumped on it. Then, I began to plan.
When traveling by myself, I try to go to places that Mike isn’t particularly interested in. Munich is one of those places. It’s also where the 1971 film “Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory” was shot.
I’ve seen a few YouTube videos of fans of the movie visiting the various outdoor sites that are still recognizable. I am a huge fan of Gene Wilder and grew up watching and re-watching “Willy Wonka,” so I thought it would be really neat to make visiting those filming sites part of this trip. Plus, Munich! Munich is really neat. Wendy Morton and I traveled there after performing at an international shadow puppetry festival around 15 years ago, and we loved it! I’m excited to return.
I figured I didn’t need a full week in Munich, so I also wanted to go back to Gimmelwald, Switzerland.
Gimmelwald is a charming mountain village nestled in the Swiss Alps, known for its breathtaking views, traditional wooden chalets, and tranquil atmosphere. It’s a popular destination for hikers and nature enthusiasts seeking an authentic Swiss experience away from the crowds.
This will be my 4th time visiting Gimmelwald. The last two times were in the Fall, and before that, early Summer. I’m curious to see how different (and cold) it will be in March.
So, that’s the trip: Vancouver to Paris, then Munich. Munich to Zurich and Gimmelwald. “Willy Wonka” in Munich, Alp cheese, and long underwear in Gimmelwald. Can’t wait!
If you’re a plane/airport nerd like me you’ll want to know what I’m flying on. (If you’re not, maybe skip this part…?)
Sacramento to Vancouver I’m on an Air Canada Bombardier CRJ900.
Vancouver to Seattle (I know, but it makes sense financially), an Embraer 175, Seattle to Paris (CDG), 787-900.
I’m hoping to enjoy as many airport lounges as I can. I have a few layovers during this trip (plus, I like to get to airports early) and the lounges will make waiting for flights not only bearable but downright relaxing and enjoyable.
Sacramento’s lounge is a bit rinky-dink but still better than sitting at the gate. Free espresso, cookies and snacks.
Speaking of enjoyable…
The lunch Air Canada served me was delicious. Some sort of chicken with saffron rice and a nice little salad. Perfect and yummy!
And did you know? Most airline napkins have this little buttonhole in one of the corners so you can secure it to your shirt. The more you know…
After checking into my hotel I took a nap. I started today performing Goldilocks and the Three Sharks in Rancho Cordova at 9am and went directly to the airport from the performance so I was ready to crash for a bit.
When I woke up I was ready to eat so I headed over to a place called The Captain’s Boil for a delicious snow crab dinner. It’s been a lovely day. Great start to the trip.
Art’s Travel Adventures 